An Entrepreneur Changes Course; Owner of Tim's Place Follows His Heart

Happy Friday. Something that's going to brighten your day.

ALBUQUERQUE, New Mexico -- What makes Tim's Place restaurant in Albuquerque, New Mexico so special is that it is, indeed, Tim's Place.
Tim Harris is the only restaurant owner in the country with Down syndrome. For the last five years he has lived for his business, which is why his customers were shocked when Tim announced recently that he'd be closing.
"My customers cry a lot into my arms," he explained.

When Bill Met Shelley: No Disability Could Keep Them Apart

Bill Ott and Shelley Belgard.

From the cold and snowy northeast, a story sure to warm your heart.

Bill Ott will always remember the moment he met Shelley Belgard. It was in spring 1988. He was 12 and sometimes shy. Into music, sports and, suddenly, girls.
Shelley was three years older, chatty and outgoing. They’d both shown up at a Montgomery County social club looking for friends, fun and the kind of acceptance that seems so elusive during teen life.
Shelley smiled. Bill introduced himself. And that was it. “I didn’t know what love was,” he says. “Until I met her.”
He was sure it was the real thing, but nobody ever believes that coming from a 12-year-old.
Certainly not one with Down syndrome.

Romance and Disabilities

In the spirit of Valentine's Day, which is hard to miss this time of year, thought this would be appropriate. Regardless of your religion or where you reside, hope you'll consider signing this inclusion pledge from the story, as it will send an important message of support and inclusion to all individuals with disabilities, their families and the Direct Service Professionals who support them.

With chocolate hearts and annoying radio ads for pajama-grams (can’t think of a worse present) vying for our attention this week, it’s easy to forget about what love is really all about, and that all of us humans have a strong drive to find love, even when we might least expect it.