By ROD ROSE

Assistant Managing Editor

Lebanon --One of Arc Rehab's rarest awards was bestowed on a Lebanon Business Park firm Monday at the agency's annual awards luncheon.

Pamida, Inc., a distributor for grocery products, became only the fifth company in 14 years to receive Arc's Community Recognition Award. Pamida's Jim Hegenbarth accepted the award.

"This award is reserved for companies or people that have shown support for Arc Rehab and the services it provides over several projects and in special and dedicated ways," said Arc Executive Director Brent Cardin during ceremonies at the Ramada Inn in Lebanon.

Others honored Monday included Wendy Davis, named Volunteer of the Year; Lebanon's Ponderosa restaurant, Business of the Year; and Kathy Odom and Becky Oaks, Achievers of the Year.

Pamida has been "the embodiment" of Arc's goal to help people with disabilities of all ages enjoy "the best opportunities possible in our community," Cardin said.

Hegenbarth asked for ways Pamida could help the agency with its Job Connection program, Cardin said. Two Arc program participants were hired and remain at work today, he said.

The company will also bring several Western Boone Jr./Sr. High School students with disabilities to work one morning a week next school year, Cardin said. "This will go a long way toward helping these young people to develop their work skills and behaviors needed to one day hold down a job in their community," Cardin said.

Ponderosa has been the host for several Arc functions over the restaurant's 20-year history, Cardin said. The restaurant's staff and management have always expressed interest in helping the agency, he said.

Working through Arc's Mainstreet Enterprises and Job Connection programs, Cardin said, "Ponderosa management was very willing to adjust and alter job positions to work toward what someone is good at," Cardin said.

Davis, a development therapist, has worked with children with developmental delays and volunteers as a member of the Boone County Local Planning and Coordination Council for the First Steps program.

"Both as a volunteer and a First Steps service provider, Wendy sets the pace for early intervention providers everywhere," Cardin said. "We are proud to have her on our team and Boone County is blessed to have such a competent and dedicated professional and volunteer for children and families."