Jose Mejia

February 2010

Jose Mejia has started the new year off right by earning the Employee of the Month spot for February. Jose was excited to learn of this new honor, because he has never won anything in his entire life. Jose has been in the disposal business for nearly eight years, finally coming to ADS in June of 2008. When he’s asked to do something, Jose likes to do everything no questions asked and to the best of his ability. Aside from working hard in the Commercial Department and taking care of his home in El Salvador where his parents live, Jose enjoys spending time with his wife and child, Oscar, who is eight years old. He also loves to play soccer and watch movies. Enjoy being the Employee of the Month and having a birthday in the same month!

Hugo Aragon

January 2010

Hugo Aragon was born in El Salvador, before he moved to Los Angeles, CA at the age of 10. While in Los Angeles, Hugo became a Dallas fan; Now hold your horses there Redskin fans, Hugo is a good guy! He has followed the Cowboys throughout his young adult life all the way to Virginia, where he now calls home. He has been in the disposal industry for almost nine years, earning his CDL after being a helper for a little over a year. Currently, he holds a route in Alexandria that he loves because the homes are closer together. Being in this industry for almost nine years, Hugo knows what to expect during the Holidays. Busy, busy, busy! He just does his best to rise early to prepare himself for the day ahead of him. The honor of being January’s Employee of the Month, though not expected, is accepted with open arms. Hugo states, “I get up early, come to work and get the job done. That’s all, I don't know why they picked me.” Hugo’s attitude and work ethic should be contagious, he does not give himself enough credit. If he could give advice to a new driver he would tell them, “This is a good company to work for. The job is hard, but the benefits are great. Also, you cannot forget those bonuses!” For Christmas he spent the day with his family, with whom he lives with in Woodbridge. He has two daughters, an eight year old, Jacqueline, and a five year old, Natalie. They are his inspiration for working so hard each and every day. He gives to them what he did not have growing up. He even purchased I Pods for his girls. Wow, lucky ladies! If you see Hugo, please congratulate him on being January's Employee of the Month!

Residential and Recycling Supervisors

December 2009

From Left to Right:

A Navy brat, born in Oakland, CA, Mike Miller is our last, but certainly not least employee of the month number three. Mike, Area Manager of Loudon County, has also worked his way up through the ranks to get where he is today. Mike loves what he does because, “Everyday is a challenge; there is something new going on each and every day.” Mike’s personal motto is that, “Everyone has a chance to progress, get their CDL and move on up. Why not do it?” To get the job done, teamwork also plays a keep part in Mike’s day. The Area Managers feels that no one is finished until all are finished. We help out one another and everyone wins. In his spare time, Mike enjoys spending time with his five year old daughter, Summer, who just started school this fall. He also enjoys playing Play Station, snowboarding and fishing. More importantly, how Mike has time to do this, no one is quite sure, but for 2009 Mike Miller has perfect attendance. The Area Managers have ridiculous hours and perfect attendance is hard to come by. In addition to this, Mike, like some, works six days a week! Wow Mike, way to show them!

Born and raised in Fairfax, VA, James Garner, Area Manager of Prince William County is one of three employees of the month. James loves his position because, “There is always a challenge, everyday is different and I’m on the go all day, every day.” To be a successful team leader, communication and teamwork play a key part. James states, the best way to create an atmosphere with teamwork and communication, is to “Put yourself in their shoes, listen to what they have to say and stay a manager while doing it.” James has been in their shoes. James has been in each position from a Helper, Driver and Swing Driver within the Front-Load, Rear-Load and Roll-Off Departments. Interestingly enough, James’ father was a Mechanic by trade and James has even dabbled in that. In his spare time, James enjoys spending time with his wife, Margaret, of 15 years. He also enjoys freshwater fishing, though he can’t say that he has recently been; He has even caught an Eel. James, did you mention we were invited for dinner this weekend? I have never had fresh Eel...

John Kay, Area Manager of Fairfax County, is also one of three employees of the month. John loves his position because, “Everyday is different, I’m in control and the position is recession free.” On the subject of teams, John feels that, “The only way to create a team atmosphere in a group setting is to pitch in and help out when needed. When one sees another helping, they too help and then the guys bond.” John’s personal goal is to build a better area for his workers through patience, organizational skills and leadership abilities. These three characteristics are qualities that each Area Manager must possess. On a more personal level, because his father was in the army, John has lived in both South Carolina and Germany, before moving to Virginia in 1987. Though John typically spends around 10 hours a day at work, he works out at a gym for 2 hours everyday on top of that! My, my, John, now that’s dedication! John enjoys spending time with his son Jacob, whom is seven years old and enjoys calling his Dad to check up on him when he has longer days than usual, kind of like November 11, 2009. Also, John enjoys riding his motorcycle, which is a silver Zx6. Yes, he is one of “those guys” that weave in and out of cars on 95.

Jerry Miller

November 2009

Though being with American for a short six months, Jerry L. Miller has razzled and dazzled all that have come to know him. Jerry enjoys being one of two Yard Dogs, because he and Glenn work very well together, and he enjoys the self-satisfaction of seeing something being accomplished. He is very thankful for the position that American has given him. His main focus at American has been following through with his "contract" that he signed when he received a position at American. Jerry loves to follow through and carry out what he said that he would do when accepting the position. Jerry's hard work and dedication has paid off. It has earned him November's Employee of the Month Spot, including a $50 Gift Card and the best parking spot in the house! Since Jerry was recently in a penitentiary, it has almost been a second chance for him to make a life for himself. He is a convicted felon, and was in prison for many years before recently getting out. To date, his proudest accomplishment has been to go back inside his penitentiary, The Coffeewood Correctional Center, and be an inspiration to guys that have been locked up. He uses his own experiences and expresses them through ministry (did I mention he is studying to be a Baptist Minister) to make an impact on inmates. On September 4, Jerry went back to his penitentiary for the first time since he was released. His first visit was successful, everyone was warm and welcoming. From Jerry's perspective, it was quite overwhelming and emotional to be able to walk through the doors and walk back out at his will. Besides spreading God's word, in his free time Jerry, loves to travel, stay busy within the church community, study to be a minister, and spend time with his family. He has one grandson, named Brenden Cole, who is one year old. Keep up the excellent work, Jerry!

Nicole Busey

October 2009

Nicole Busey is the Administrator for the Sales Department. Nicole does a fantastic job with her multi-tasking skills while assisting the sales team in any work-related issues. In addition to her main duties, she is also the “Welcome Wagon” for the sales team, as well as the event planner for company functions (aka Christmas Party and the recent 2nd Annual Golf Tournament). Nicole accredits her multi-tasking skills to her previous employers, while her love for event planning comes from her degree in Tourism and Event Management, which she attained at George Mason University.

On a more personal level, Nicole is one of three girls. Much of her family is local, although her mom lives in San Antonio, TX. Nicole adores traveling, and doing anything that has to do with being in the sunshine like going to yard sales or getting her hands dirty with yard work. Nicole deserves a high five for her efforts and the fantastic job she does daily. Great job, Nicole!

Melquis A. Ferrufino Vasquez

September 2009

Melquis came to the U.S.A. from Honduras with his family in 2003 . He began at ADS as a helper, and within three months he got his CDL by working with Greg Hubbell. Currently, he holds the position of Residential Driver. He loves working in this industry because it keeps him in shape. Melquis keeps a pretty busy schedule between working, going to NOVA for Civil Engineering, church, family, and playing soccer and basketball. His moto is, "keep moving forward until you reach your dreams." If he could give any advice to other Drivers and helpers he would say, "be patient, think before acting, keep a positive attitude; otherwise you won't go anywhere." Great job Melquis, way to be a leader!

Sean Torres

August 2009

In recognition for his hard work and dedication, Sean Torres is August's Employee of the Month. Sean exceeds all expectations by putting 110% effort in all that he does. An example of this is always being ready with his Nextel in hand for road calls or any general questions or concerns. Sean enjoys his position on a daily basis, because being in dispatch is a very social position; He lives for the people-to-people interaction and he wouldn't change it for the world. He even stated, "When the day ends and I turn my phone off, it's like a part of me dies." People rely on Sean for his knowledge and expertise, and his pizzazz and sparkling personality always make speaking with him a positive experience. Great job Sean, keep up the good work!

Daniel Espinosa

June 2009

Daniel Espinosa is the June employee of the month. Daniel came to the states from Guatemala in 2000. Daniel got his CDL license in 2003, taking after his father that has his own business driving tractor trailer. His current position is a rear load driver. He loves working at ADS because, "it's a great way to stay in shape, and I enjoy seeing different people everyday." On the weekends, Daniel goes to the park with his family and watches movies. His favorite movie is 300 (2006). Daniel has earned Employee of the Month, because of his excellent attitude. Great job Daniel!

Sandie Bailey

May 2009

Sandie Bailey has been employed with ADS since July 2007 in the Human Resources Department. She is the Queen of employee benefits including: Health, Dental, Vision, STD, LTD and Whole Life. During the past few months she has been diligently learning and communicating these new benefits. One may say that she has brought her A game. There have been numerous changes with the benefits that ADS offers and she has stayed on top of it all! If you should ever need an assistance with any health related issues please see Sandie in HR. She is available 7:30 am to 4 pm.

Robbie Slingerman

April 2009

Robbie Slingerman's deep interest in the trash and recycling industry, as well as his perseverance and sparkeling personality has earned him April's Employee of the Month. Robbie's territory includes Manassas, Centreville, Clifton, Chantilly and Oakton.

One challenge he has overcome would have to be the transition of using email and excel. When he began, he utilized a pad of paper to organize his thoughts and customers. In the computer age, he continues to be organized, with the utilization of his Apple iPhone and states, "I don't like anything hanging; it must be wrapped up and in order to stay on top of things in order to achieve success." Great Job Robbie, you deserve it!

Carlos A. Vargas

March 2009

Carlos A. Vargas was born in Nicaragua, before he resided in California when he moved to the United States in 1987. In 2001 he moved to Virginia to be with friends and family. Currently, he has five children (age ranges between 6 months to 12 years). Yearly, the family takes a vacation to Colonial Beach. In his spare time he enjoys fishing on his boat, which he is currently looking to name.

Carlos began at ADS in 2004 with Tom Stevens. He was a man of many hats, concurring service on the small fleet of 26 trucks, as well as going out on road calls as needed. Being a mechanic has always interested him, although previously he was a painter. He has always been interested in finding the problems within the fleet, solving any mechanical issues and learning from those issues. He is extremely proud of what he has done for ADS and what ADS has done for him in return.

Robyn L. Forney

February 2009

I was born in Key West, Florida (Dad was in the Navy), but am a Pennsylvania native. I was raised as a country girl in a small town of 900 people called New Bloomfield. I headed off to college after graduation in 2001 and worked extra hard, because I knew that I wanted to do something big! The one thing that I knew for sure was that I had a knack working with people, and I had always enjoyed sewing, taking pictures, and designing scrapbooks and invitations.

After graduating from Indiana University of Pennsylvania in 2005, I was still clueless as to what I would do for a career. What kind of place would let me sew, take pictures, and design scrapbooks and invitations? After two unsuccessful attempts at careers after college, my main goal was to find a job that I would love and enjoy coming to each and every day. Therefore, I took off work for two months and began the hunt.

I have come a long way since my start with ADS in July of 2008. I began in accounting processing receivables, dump bills, CINTAS uniforms, attendance, payroll, terminations, fuel collection and reconciliation, as well as the newsletter. Recently, I have progressed more into Human Resources completing life insurance, disciplinary action, reviews, and the I9 verification and accuracy.

I am extremely proud of my individual growth within ADS; I have come a long way. I knew when I moved into Human Resources that I had found my calling.

If I could pick one thing that was hard, I would have to say moving to a new area for a career. It is still very sad for me to live away from 90% of my family and friends. When you grow up somewhere and move away it is hard to feel comfortable and to trust people that you do not know. Thank you ADS for taking a chance with me, I am finally working hard at something that I love!

Blaine DesCombes

January 2009

Blaine DesCombes moved here from Seattle, WA after his brother Gary hitchhiked across the country to the Washington D.C. area. After visiting Gary, he decided that D.C. was for him!

Blaine enjoys working with his hands, and one notable project that he is proud of is a set of French doors he fabricated. Blaine also enjoys scary movies, Hellraiser (1987) being his favorite.

Blaine has been in this industry for over 20 years. He has progressed from Toter delivery to residential sales, operations, customer service and his most current position in Roll-Off.

Jessica Bennett

December 2008

Jessica began with American Dispsoal Service (ADS) in June of 2004. She has progressed tremendously in the company working in areas such as: customer service, payroll, benefits and the toter department. She has also played a large role in the Alliance Marketing Inc. (AMI), an outsourcing company ADS works with. Jessica is extremely proud of her quality of work; she takes a personal pride in what she does everyday.

Hobbies include reading and watching horror movies. Noted authors include John Grisham and James Patterson. She adores horror flicks, her favorite being The Exorcism of Emily Rose (2005). Christmas for the Bennett's is a very family oriented holiday. She typically attends Grace Methodist Church, located here in Manassas. Keep up the good work Jessica!