Pondi’s Restaurant, a popular Lisbon landmark, receiveda plaque of recognition from the Reach 4 More program for hiring workers with disabilities. Present for the award were, from left, G.R. “Hawk” Miller of Reach 4 More, Pondi’s general manger Samantha Kinemond, employee Ruth Ann Barker, Paul Anthony of Reach 4 More, and Bill Devon, superintendent of the Columbiana County Board of Disabilities. (Submitted photo)

LISBON – Asked why she likes working at Pondi’s Restaurant, Ruth Ann Barker said, “Oh, I love working here. I get a good paycheck.”

Because she is employed and earns wages, “Ruthie” had money of her own to spend when, for instance, she went to Disney World last summer. That was very important to her, that she earned the money herself. Ruthie works three days a week, Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

Officials of the Reach 4 More, an employment program of the Columbiana County Board of Developmental Disabilities, presented a plaque to Pondi’s in recognition of its commitment to hiring those with disabilities.

G.R. “Hawk” Miller, an employment development specialist with Reach 4 More, said holding a real job helps people with developmental disabilities demonstrate their abilities and show they are worthwhile members of the local community.

It was Miller who suggested hiring Ruthie to Pondi’s owner Matt Borza last year. “We really appreciate what they are doing,” Miller said. “I stop in every once in awhile to check on Ruthie. The staff here really loves her.”

Pondi’s manager Samantha Kinemond said the diminutive redhead is a favorite of Pondi’s customers and a hard worker.

“She does everything we ask her to. She’s the best,” said Kinemond.

“I do the bathrooms, sweep the floors, mop the floors, and do dishes,” Ruthie said.

Businesses interested in learning the benefits of hiring those with disabilities may contact Reach 4 More at its Lisbon office through the main CCBDD phone line, 330-870-4272.