The Insider

Volume II, Issue V

May 2008

Pearl and Oxford Have New Office Facilities

On April 25th, MDRS Staff began moving into their new facility in Pearl , Mississippi , now serving as the home for District VI Offices. The 8,800 square foot building, with 42 offices, was designed to meet the needs of current staff, as well as any additional staff that might be needed in the future.

VR District VI Manager Vicki Burton stated, "Things are going fairly well, other than working out a few kinks you always have moving into a new building." This is Vicki's second experience with moving into a new location, as she was Facility Manager for AbilityWorks of Jackson when the Beasley Road facility opened. This new "home away from home" for thirty MDRS employees is comprised of the following: 16 VR staff, 8 OSDP staff, 3 VRB staff and 3 Job Placement staff.

On another note, on April 21, 2008, All VR, VRB, OSDP, and AW staff of Oxford were relocated to the old Wal-Mart building on loan from the University of Mississippi . Staff was relocated from the North Mississippi Regional Center (a special thanks to Dr. Sandy Rogers, Director), the WIN Job Center, and the Batesville offices.

Barry Bray, VR Regional Director stated, "The computer and phone lines had been installed, but we had trouble getting the computers functioning right for awhile. With the wonderful assistance from MIS, the computers were running properly in a few days. The phone system is working, but there may be some problems making long distance calls. The issue with the phones should be resolved shortly thanks to Les, Marva, and Robbie Lovelace."

Barry also states that everyone is being wonderful about this relocation and the destruction of their offices. "They are proceeding like troopers to see that the job continues to get done and that all their clients are served. Everyone is in one big space with no walls or dividers between them, and everyone is working together."

"Some people have commented to me that this type of situation is pretty good because it allows them to get to know one another better. They can just walk to someone's desk rather than emailing about matters. I certainly commend all of them," he continues. "The AbilityWorks staff have gone above and beyond the call of duty to try to accommodate everyone in the new surroundings and everything is looking up."

The Next Step Retreat

On April 18th and 19th, MDRS hosted 'The Next Step Retreat,' a two day, one night retreat for transition students and their parents helping them to 'explore life after high school.' The retreat was held at Twin Lakes Camp and Conference Center in Florence and was sponsored by AbilityWorks, Inc. Many MDRS personnel were enthusiastic about assisting with this inaugural retreat for high school students. Parents, school teachers, and principals made sure that the retreat was a success by transporting students and serving as chaperones.

Arriving at noon on Friday, the attendees settled in, ate lunch, and got started. They attended sessions and heard speakers on a wide variety of topics. Issues such as planning for the future, healthy social relationships, and understanding the social security system were just a few of the subjects up for discussion. Donny Frazier, program coordinator, said that "it was wonderful to see parents and students captivated by some of the information that was presented."

With over 100 people in attendance, the retreat was deemed a success. Deborah Simpson, the parent of a student in attendance, said "I first enjoyed it as a student, then as a parent. Now I am going to use it to teach others."

The Story of John Dedeaux

On the morning of August 30, 2005, as a result of the devastation wrought by Hurricane Katrina, John Dedeaux was forced to move from his home in Gulfport , MS to live in Hattiesburg with his daughter. He had survived Hurricane Camille in the late 60's, but Katrina's impact was too overwhelming. John Dedeaux, however, had already proven to be a survivor, as evidenced in an earlier event.

In early 1970, Dedeaux was given 24 hours to live, after having bones in his neck shattered from an accidental gunshot to his neck. He spent the next 33 days at Methodist Rehabilitation Center (MRC), where he fought depression and suffered from decubitus ulcers, which eventually necessitated the removal of his left hip and right femur.

Thankfully, Dedeaux has lived well beyond the 24 hours expected, but not without many sacrifices and struggles. After completing rehabilitation at MRC, he returned to Gulfport , where he applied for and received attendant care services through the Traumatic Brain Injury/Spinal Cord Injury (TBI/SCI) Waiver Program, which enabled him to remain independent in his home and community. It became necessary, however, for Dedeaux to be admitted to the Gulfport Memorial Hospital for 11 months to correct problems resulting from ulcers and the hip and femur removal. In 1971, he was transferred to Kuhn Memorial State Hospital in Vicksburg , MS , where he was pushed to the limit by his Physical Therapist, Robert Stringer, who helped him in the development of his upper body strength. It is this intense therapy that enabled him to overcome depression and instilled in him the desire to be all that he was created to be. Dedeaux then eagerly underwent therapy and treatment at both the Kuhn Hospital and MRC.

Since his daughter's home was not handicap accessible, decreasing Dedeaux's ability to be independent, he chose to move out on his own to a more suitable location. John Dedeaux now lives in the Woodford Park Building in Hattiesburg and functions independently, with the aid of a Personal Care Attendant (PCA) furnished through the TBI/SCI Waiver Program. We are proud that OSDP was able to assist this courageous man in his time of need.

Supervisor Training in HR Guidlines

Supervisor Training for the Vocational Rehabilitation for the Blind, Disability Determination Services, Assistive Technology and Madison Office Supervisory Staff was held in Bay St. Louis, May 7th through 9th.

The "Essential Human Resource Guidelines" training seminar began with a reception at The Bridges Clubhouse held in honor of the participants. Members of the MDRS Senior Management Team were in attendance and introduced their supervisory staff members to the group.

The MDRS Human Resource Development and Training staff did an outstanding job in organizing the training and presenting on topics such Payroll Issues, Performance Appraisal Review, and Disciplinary Issues.

Thanks to Pat Klar and the Human Resource Department and Sara DeLoach, MDRS Special Assistant Attorney General, for being able to provide valuable information in an interesting and engaging format.

S potlight On Success

Mark Collins of Louisville , MS has made outstanding progress since first coming to the Mississippi Department of Rehabilitation Services for assistance in May of 2006. Utilizing an array of vocational rehabilitation services provided by the staff of AbilityWorks of Philadelphia and VR counselor Nancy Saucier in Louisville , he obtained the skills necessary for employment. Collins is now gainfully employed by Sonic in Louisville , where he has shown great initiative.

DDS Department Wins Award

Congratulations to Jo Ann Summers and the Mississippi Disability Determination Services (DDS) for their outstanding performance in 2007, resulting in the receipt of the Atlanta Region's Commissioner Citation for "exemplary performance in accuracy, timeliness and productivity in providing exceptional service to the disabled citizens of Mississippi ." Ms. Summers extends this message, "I am very, very pleased that the MS DDS has once again been recognized for outstanding service and honored with a Commissioner's Citation for our accomplishments. You are such a great team! Thank you!"

Welcome to MDRS!

Batesville-- Megretta Thomas

Clarksdale-- Connie Stanton

Charleston-- Vernida Vance

Forest-- Latricia Map

Gulfport-- Dossie House

Anthony Mazzeo

Andrea Stermin

Okimo Williams

New Albany-- Melanie Keys

Newton-- Melody Reed

Tupelo-- Daniel Turner

Employee Spotlight

Bobby Purvis

Facilities Maintenance Supervisor

Madison, BEP

Bobby Purvis has become indispensable to the blind vendors in the Business Enterprise Program (BEP) by keeping their vending machines and other commercial equipment in good working order. After previously serving as an aircraft mechanic in the Mississippi Air National Guard, Bobby began work with BEP in December 1992. He is charged with the task of maintaining all BEP equipment across the entire state.

Between his on-site training and his on-the-phone coaching, he does a superior job in helping the vendors get their equipment up and running in a timely manner.

"Bobby genuinely cares about the blind vendors and always goes the extra mile to see that their needs are met," said Bob McDonnell, BEP Director. "He's just a top-notch guy."

	If you have a story or event to share for next month's issue, please contact: Rebecca Henley Communications and Consumer Relations Phone: 601.853.5175 rhenley@mdrs.ms.gov The Insider Volume II, Issue V May 2008 Pearl and Oxford Have New Office Facilities On April 25th, MDRS Staff began moving into their new facility in Pearl , Mississippi , now serving as the home for District VI Offices. The 8,800 square foot building, with 42 offices, was designed to meet the needs of current staff, as well as any additional staff that might be needed in the future. VR District VI Manager Vicki Burton stated, "Things are going fairly well, other than working out a few kinks you always have moving into a new building." This is Vicki's second experience with moving into a new location, as she was Facility Manager for AbilityWorks of Jackson when the Beasley Road facility opened. This new "home away from home" for thirty MDRS employees is comprised of the following: 16 VR staff, 8 OSDP staff, 3 VRB staff and 3 Job Placement staff. On another note, on April 21, 2008, All VR, VRB, OSDP, and AW staff of Oxford were relocated to the old Wal-Mart building on loan from the University of Mississippi . Staff was relocated from the North Mississippi Regional Center (a special thanks to Dr. Sandy Rogers, Director), the WIN Job Center, and the Batesville offices. Barry Bray, VR Regional Director stated, "The computer and phone lines had been installed, but we had trouble getting the computers functioning right for awhile. With the wonderful assistance from MIS, the computers were running properly in a few days. The phone system is working, but there may be some problems making long distance calls. The issue with the phones should be resolved shortly thanks to Les, Marva, and Robbie Lovelace." Barry also states that everyone is being wonderful about this relocation and the destruction of their offices. "They are proceeding like troopers to see that the job continues to get done and that all their clients are served. Everyone is in one big space with no walls or dividers between them, and everyone is working together." "Some people have commented to me that this type of situation is pretty good because it allows them to get to know one another better. They can just walk to someone's desk rather than emailing about matters. I certainly commend all of them," he continues. "The AbilityWorks staff have gone above and beyond the call of duty to try to accommodate everyone in the new surroundings and everything is looking up." The Next Step Retreat On April 18th and 19th, MDRS hosted 'The Next Step Retreat,' a two day, one night retreat for transition students and their parents helping them to 'explore life after high school.' The retreat was held at Twin Lakes Camp and Conference Center in Florence and was sponsored by AbilityWorks, Inc. Many MDRS personnel were enthusiastic about assisting with this inaugural retreat for high school students. Parents, school teachers, and principals made sure that the retreat was a success by transporting students and serving as chaperones. Arriving at noon on Friday, the attendees settled in, ate lunch, and got started. They attended sessions and heard speakers on a wide variety of topics. Issues such as planning for the future, healthy social relationships, and understanding the social security system were just a few of the subjects up for discussion. Donny Frazier, program coordinator, said that "it was wonderful to see parents and students captivated by some of the information that was presented." With over 100 people in attendance, the retreat was deemed a success. Deborah Simpson, the parent of a student in attendance, said "I first enjoyed it as a student, then as a parent. Now I am going to use it to teach others." The Story of John Dedeaux On the morning of August 30, 2005, as a result of the devastation wrought by Hurricane Katrina, John Dedeaux was forced to move from his home in Gulfport , MS to live in Hattiesburg with his daughter. He had survived Hurricane Camille in the late 60's, but Katrina's impact was too overwhelming. John Dedeaux, however, had already proven to be a survivor, as evidenced in an earlier event. In early 1970, Dedeaux was given 24 hours to live, after having bones in his neck shattered from an accidental gunshot to his neck. He spent the next 33 days at Methodist Rehabilitation Center (MRC), where he fought depression and suffered from decubitus ulcers, which eventually necessitated the removal of his left hip and right femur. Thankfully, Dedeaux has lived well beyond the 24 hours expected, but not without many sacrifices and struggles. After completing rehabilitation at MRC, he returned to Gulfport , where he applied for and received attendant care services through the Traumatic Brain Injury/Spinal Cord Injury (TBI/SCI) Waiver Program, which enabled him to remain independent in his home and community. It became necessary, however, for Dedeaux to be admitted to the Gulfport Memorial Hospital for 11 months to correct problems resulting from ulcers and the hip and femur removal. In 1971, he was transferred to Kuhn Memorial State Hospital in Vicksburg , MS , where he was pushed to the limit by his Physical Therapist, Robert Stringer, who helped him in the development of his upper body strength. It is this intense therapy that enabled him to overcome depression and instilled in him the desire to be all that he was created to be. Dedeaux then eagerly underwent therapy and treatment at both the Kuhn Hospital and MRC. Since his daughter's home was not handicap accessible, decreasing Dedeaux's ability to be independent, he chose to move out on his own to a more suitable location. John Dedeaux now lives in the Woodford Park Building in Hattiesburg and functions independently, with the aid of a Personal Care Attendant (PCA) furnished through the TBI/SCI Waiver Program. We are proud that OSDP was able to assist this courageous man in his time of need. Supervisor Training in HR Guidlines Supervisor Training for the Vocational Rehabilitation for the Blind, Disability Determination Services, Assistive Technology and Madison Office Supervisory Staff was held in Bay St. Louis, May 7th through 9th. The "Essential Human Resource Guidelines" training seminar began with a reception at The Bridges Clubhouse held in honor of the participants. Members of the MDRS Senior Management Team were in attendance and introduced their supervisory staff members to the group. The MDRS Human Resource Development and Training staff did an outstanding job in organizing the training and presenting on topics such Payroll Issues, Performance Appraisal Review, and Disciplinary Issues. Thanks to Pat Klar and the Human Resource Department and Sara DeLoach, MDRS Special Assistant Attorney General, for being able to provide valuable information in an interesting and engaging format. S potlight On Success Mark Collins of Louisville , MS has made outstanding progress since first coming to the Mississippi Department of Rehabilitation Services for assistance in May of 2006. Utilizing an array of vocational rehabilitation services provided by the staff of AbilityWorks of Philadelphia and VR counselor Nancy Saucier in Louisville , he obtained the skills necessary for employment. Collins is now gainfully employed by Sonic in Louisville , where he has shown great initiative. DDS Department Wins Award Congratulations to Jo Ann Summers and the Mississippi Disability Determination Services (DDS) for their outstanding performance in 2007, resulting in the receipt of the Atlanta Region's Commissioner Citation for "exemplary performance in accuracy, timeliness and productivity in providing exceptional service to the disabled citizens of Mississippi ." Ms. Summers extends this message, "I am very, very pleased that the MS DDS has once again been recognized for outstanding service and honored with a Commissioner's Citation for our accomplishments. You are such a great team! Thank you!" Welcome to MDRS! Batesville-- Megretta Thomas Clarksdale-- Connie Stanton Charleston-- Vernida Vance Forest-- Latricia Map Gulfport-- Dossie House Anthony Mazzeo Andrea Stermin Okimo Williams New Albany-- Melanie Keys Newton-- Melody Reed Tupelo-- Daniel Turner Employee Spotlight Bobby Purvis Facilities Maintenance Supervisor Madison, BEP Bobby Purvis has become indispensable to the blind vendors in the Business Enterprise Program (BEP) by keeping their vending machines and other commercial equipment in good working order. After previously serving as an aircraft mechanic in the Mississippi Air National Guard, Bobby began work with BEP in December 1992. He is charged with the task of maintaining all BEP equipment across the entire state. Between his on-site training and his on-the-phone coaching, he does a superior job in helping the vendors get their equipment up and running in a timely manner. "Bobby genuinely cares about the blind vendors and always goes the extra mile to see that their needs are met," said Bob McDonnell, BEP Director. "He's just a top-notch guy."


	Copyright ©2003-2007 Mississippi Department of Rehabilitation Services