Oklahoma Department of Rehabilitation Services In the News
August 1 through 31, 2011
Produced by Shirley Burton, Brett Freeman and Dana Tallon for Oklahoma Department of Rehabilitation Services, Public Information Office.
If you have any questions please call 405.951.3478.
This publication is only available in the electronic format on the DRS website, www.okdrs.gov. The Tecumseh Countywide News: August 4, 2011 -Page 6a Tecumseh, OK. Circulation: Weekly: 1818 Circulation Source:
COlC At Lions Shawnee Lions Paul Milburn, left, and Mike Moriarity, right, welcome Elizabeth Stewart to a recent club meeting. Stewart, Director of In stitutional Services Di vision of the Office of Juvenile Affairs, and Moriarity, SLlperinten dent of the Central Okla homa Juvenile Center in Tecumseh, presented a program outlining the security and treatment programs at the center. A new program in co operation with the Okla homa Depart ment of Rehabilitative Services will provide services to juveniles with disabilities to help them find em
ployment upon release,
DRS In the News 1 July 2011 The Dally Ardmorel!e : August 9, 2011 -Page 10a Ardmore . OK. Circulat ion: Dally: 9721 Circulallon Source: PREP FOOTBALL
--
Above, AII-Artlmorelte Super Team linebacker Zac Maynard (7) is one of several returning starters from Davis' Class 2A state runner-up team. Below, renovations like new lockers at Dickson have Comet fans excited after a d own year in 2010. PHOTO/ROSS TUCKE R/OAVIS HIGH SCHOOL AN D DON AlQUISTITH[ARDMOREITE Preseason starts today. Here's what to look for in Hit the field south-central Oklahoma By Erik K. Horne [email protected]
Preseason football around the state begins today and several a rea schools have questions and expectations to an swer. While the state cham pionship is the goal of ev ery school in OkJahoma, some have smaller goals and standards that need to be met before making the big game in Decem ber. The only south-cen t ral Oklahoma team to even make consecu tive enced offensive line and Weber and ru nning back/ for the Deaf was mere state quarterfinals in the youth across the board, linebacker Zac Maynard, minutes away from a Na past two seasons has been it could be said that Da return this fall. tional Deaf Interscholas Davis in Class 2A. vis was a year ahead of The Wolves have the tic Athletic Association The Wolves, state run schedule in 2010. The most talent coming back national championsbip, ners-up to Hennessey last Wolves went 14-2, losing and the best opportunity falling 46-42 to Wiscon season, are just one ofthe 14-0 in the state cham of any area school to ,vin sin. The Indians return key storylines to watch pionship game in a sea astatechampionship. Ex six starters on offense and heading into the 2011 son that started as a prep pectations will be heavy defense in an eight-man schedule. to return for a mature for Davis this year, but football conference, in In no particular order, state championship run they always are at Wolf cluding two-year starters here are five things to look in 2011. Field. in quarterback Colin lar for in 2011, with five more Looks like it could be kins, running back Jacob to come Wednesday. back-to-back trips to the 2. OSD back in Walden and defensive end 1. Can Davis finals fo r Davis. A major the hunt Colt Jenkins. ity of their starters, in Davis wasn't the only The Indians will have get back to the cluding A11-Ardmoreite school on the brink of a to start their 2011 season championship? Super Team players in championship last year. playingcateh-up, as prac- quarterback/safety Cole With a fairly inexperi- The Oklahoma School SEE PREPS. PAGE 12
DRS In the News 2 July 2011 The Daily Ardmoreile: Augusl9, 2011-Page 12a Ardmore: OK. Circulalion: Daily: 9721 . Conlinued From -Page 10a ,...... ~- .. . . --- -- Circulalion Source :
with an offseason of ren coach. With him comes defensive back Andrew terback, but there's two more Colton Dunn. PREPS ovation beyond just the the opening of a new ath Stoker. more Bonds (Paten and Every year, programs CONTINUED FROM PAGE 10 coaching staff. letic ccnter. Farris will get plenty of Samuel) in waiting ... and graduate longtime start Accompanying former And Ardmore's Doug the ball as the lead back a wide open QB race ac ers only to have to replace las Wendel has the task this fall, but Ringling had cancelled due to excessive Ardmore offensive coor cording to coach Cooper. them with fi rst-year im heat. dinator Jeremy Reed at of getting the Tigers into several rushers, including Ardmore graduated Dickson arc revamped the playoffs in a top-heavy returning starter Dustin a three-year starter at pact players or kids who've 3. Coaching facilities and a new spirit District 5A-2 featuring Eubanks, fin the void last running back in Andra patiently waited their tum changes around Dickson football. McAlester and Lawton season. Brown, butsenior Kenyon in the pecking order. Ex Madill brings in a leg MacArthur. Head coach Tracy Gan Gordon leads another tal pect nothing less in 2011. Four area schools enter end in former Fox head 4. Ringling brings dy said this group won't ented group in the hack preseason camp with new coach Milton Cooper, who have the size of past Ring field. There are five more to head coaches: Ardmore, won a 1985 state cham speed to the fteld ling units, but will be the Tn Lone Grove, a work watch for coming Wednes fastest team he's had as Dickson, Kingston and pionship with the Foxes Injuries have jumped horse running back ex day, including our look at Madill. head coach. and two as an assistant up and hit the Blue Devils its in Dalton Keeton. In some area camps. Check Three of the four made at Ardmore in the early The Blue Devils open steps Hunter Bellavigna. over the last few seasons. out these storylines and the playoffs this season, 19905. Kingston, coming against Davis on Sept. 2. In Healdton, three-year Ringling had to go all more in the Aug. 28 Foot but all fell in the first off a breakthrough three of last season without ar 5. Replacing starting quarterback J.J. round. Dickson, coming win season after a los guably its most dynamic Montaie is gone. The Bull ball Preview. off a 1-9 season, has the ing streak that spanned player (Matthew Farris) program staples dogs could have another biggest bridge to cross, over three seasons, brings and spent the offseason There's no Spencer three-year starter brewing ErikK. Home but have started to do so John Caraway in as head without wide receiver/ Bond for Madill at quar- under center in sopho- 221-6522
DRS In the News 3 July 2011 Sulphur Times-Democrat: August 11 ,2011 -Page 1 Sulphur, OK, Circulation: Weekly: 3448 Circulation Source: First Deaf Woman Named To OSD Superintendent's Post KaAnn Varner Takes Over Reins At School
By Jennifer Quidas serving as a teacher. assistant "I am honored 10 have been Times·Democrat staff principal and principal. chosen for a position Ihal will According 10 a press release enable me 10 serve in a capacity Thefirst Deafwoman has been from Ihe Oklahoma Dept. of Re that will allow me to reach more named as superintendent of the habilitation Services. she also is Deaf and hard of hearing students Oklahoma School for the Deaf. the first dcafleader in the lop posi in a way Ihat is meaningful 10 Deaf which was founded in Indian Ter tion since fonner superintendent and hard of hearing students and ritory in 1897. KaAnn Varner has Ralph White, who served from been a pan of OSD since 1998, 1981101990. (See Varner, page 2) KaAnn Varner
DRS In the News 4 July 2011 Sulphur Times-Democrat: August 11 ,2011 -Page 2 Sulphur: OK, Circulation: Weekly: 3448 , Continued From -Page 1 Circulation Source: (Continued from page 1) Varner community members, parents nities for success in life as other at Calhoun Community College, Ans and Sciences of Oklahoma of those students. educators and students in Oklahoma, she graduated from the University in Chickasha. others who have an interest in bet With this promotion, Varner of Montevallo in Montevallo, OSD provided outreach ser tering the lives of Deaf and hard has an even better opponunity to Ala. Varner earned a bachelor's vices to public school students of hearing Oklahomans," Varner fulfill her vision for the school. of science in educating the Deaf attending local schools, their said, "I hope that by earning this "I want toleaveOSDsomooay and hard of hearing. She earned families, local educators and position it will provide insight to far into the future as good or better a master's in administration from organizations. including 66,031 instill expectations in the minds than [ found it. [ want to feel like Southern Nazarene University in direct services, 3,301 consulta of others that Deaf and hard of I've made imponantcontributions Bethany. tions and evaluations, 28,705 ser hearing individuals are capable to the education of Deaf and hard She worked at the Alabama vices to families, 28,749 services of high level positions," of hearing students. and secured School for the Deaf in Talladega to schools and 5,274 services to The School for the Deaf pro opponunities that maximize op and the EPIC Sc hool in Binning organizations. vides educational services to resi ponunities for Deaf and hard of ham, before accepting a job at dential, commuter and outreach hearing students to find fulfill the Arkansas School forthe Deaf The school operates the only students at no charge, ment in both their professional in Little Rock. There, she met National Accessible Learning "I feel very honored to have and personal lives, Growing up and mamed Tommy Varner. an Center in the U.S .. which annu been selected to work with DRS to as a deaf student enabled me to Oklahoma native. ally ships thousands of captioned ensure OSD continues to provide experience many challenges that The Varners both accepted educational videos for deaf a quality education for Deaf and I may not have experienced if I jobs at the Oklahoma School for students and videos with audio Hard of Hearing students in the had maintained nonnal hearing, the Deaf. Tommy Varner was descriptions of on screen action state of Oklahoma," she said, While [did obtain a good educa hired as a football, basketball for students who are blind. Varner has been the OS D prin tion, obtaining such an education and track coach, and is currently cipal for a year and a half. The did not have to have such chal the football coach and athletic "OSD is a place that invests administration team has divided lenges to be overcome, Foremost director. They have two children, in the future of deaf and hard the position's duties until a new in my mind, even asa first grader, Caleb, 13, and Shannon, 10. of hearing students. There are principal is hired. was that I wanted to serve other The Oklahoma School for opportunities for participation "OSD has always provided Deaf and hard of hearing students the Deaf is fully accredited and in everything. OSD has great a quality education. In my new so they would not have to experi teaches speciali zed skills that teachers and staff who go beyond capacity as superintendent , I hope ence the everyday challenges I help students live independently, what is required to provide the to capitalize on the programs that had to experience. I wanted to as well as all state mandated ultimate learning e nvironment for are in place toensure that students work toensurethat Deafand hard education requirements. The Deaf and hard of hearing students. continue to receive maximum of hearing students are provided 2010 graduation rate was 100 Deaf and hard of hearing students opponunities in all areas of the with opponunities to reach the ir percent. feel welcome in all aspects of our school, while acknowledging that goals and beyond." Last year, 141 students lived at campus. Nocommunication bar each student isan individual with An Ardmore, Ala. native, the OSD during the week orcom riers exist on our campus, We have individual needs," she said. Varner is the daughter of the late muted from home and 70attended excellent community and parent Varner said there must be Calvin Shannon and the lateJudy summer school. Thiny students suppan as well as suppan from people to advocate for Deaf stu Shannon. attended OS D's two satellite OUf foundation, the Oklahoma dents in the community and with She is a 1986 graduate of preschool programs located at the School for the Deaf Foundation employers to ensure that those Ardmore High School. After University of Central Oklahoma for Excellence in Education," students have the same opponu- completing two years of college in Edmond and the Un iversity of Varner said.
DRS In the News 5 July 2011 Weatherford Daily News: August 13, 2011 -Page 7b Weatherford, OK. Circulation: Daily: 4461
Circulation Source: Governor announces Fridaytovariousposa OKLAHOMA CITY Compensation and the Dugger will serve a three attended the College of degree from East Central a master's from University - Governor Mary Fallin Oklahoma Department of year term and is replacing Osteopathic Medicine at University and a master's of Southern California. He Thursday announced Libraries Board. Clinton Johnson. Senate Oklahoma State University from OSU. Collins will will serve at the pleasure appointments to the confirmation is required in Tulsa. Nicholson will serve a three year term and of the governor and is Oklahoma State Council for Oklahoma State Council for his appointment. serve a five year term is replacing Ben White. replacing Jennie Medbery. Interstate Adult Offender for Interstate Adult and is replacing Brian His appointment does not His appointment does not Supervision, Oklahoma Offender Supervision Oklahoma Health Yeaman, who resigned. require confirmation from require confirmation from Health Information Richard Dugger of Information His appointment does not the Senate. the Senate. Exchange Trust , Hammon is a lawyer, Exchange Trust require confirmation from Construction Industries rancher and is currently Joe Nicholson of Tulsa the Senate. Polygrapb Oklahoma Department Board, Commission for the chairman of the Pardon is the vice president and Examiners Board of Libraries Board Rehabilitation Services, and Patrol Board. He national medical director Construction Gary Thornberry Anne Morgan of Norman Polygraph Examiners earned his law degree from at Cancer Treatment Industries Board of Okarche serves as a owns Morgan Consulting, Board, Board on Judicial Oklahoma City University. Centers of America. He Tony Boevers of lieutenant for the Oklahoma a national consulting Piedmont is the vice Highway Patrol. He firm that sets up new president of Allstate attended both Northern foundations, advises on Electrical Contractors in Oklahoma College and governance, policies, Oklahoma City. He also Seward County Community board development and owns Plainsmen Properties, College in Liberal, KS. fundraising. She earned a a property management Thornberry will serve a six bachelor's degree from the company. Boevers studied year term and is replacing University of North Texas, at Canadian Valley Rickey Thornburg. Senate a master's from Columbia Technical School. He will confirmation is required University and a Ph .D. serve a four year term and for his appointment. from the University of is replacing Mike Burton, Texas. Morgan will serve who resigned. Senate Board on Judicial a three year term and is confirmation is required Compensation replacing Shelly Wilson, for his appointment. Fred Hall of Oklahoma who resigned. Senate City is the chairman and confirmation is required Commission for CEO at Hall Capital, a for her appointment. Rehabilitation Services private equity firm . He Lynda Collins of Mannford previously served as the is retired after serving 33 chairman for the Oklahoma years at the Department of Transportation Authority. Rehabilitation Services. Hall earned a bachelor's She earned a bachelor's degree ftom Vanderbilt and
DRS In the News 6 July 2011 Yukon Review: Augus113 . 2011 -Page Be Yukon . OK , Clrculallon: Bi-Weekly: 5723 Clrculallon Source :
NEW HOPE CHURCH PRESENTS A Strong & Healthy Oklahoma 5th Annual FREE HEALTH FAIR Saturday, August 27, 2011 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. Location: New Hope United Methodist Church 11600 N. Council Road ({\~ of Hefller (J1lI1 S. of J11 ,J St.) For more informalion: Catl.Xl Paul Slillll.cll al 722-5281 or stillwcllp:gsl:qlobal.nel No charge for attendance and no reservalions:lre needed Frrf Hra lth SC I'1'~ni ngs ror: CRnrrr . CIHnromH . Visual Acuity ' C h o l r.s l~rol . Hi gh Blood PrtSs urt . Basic Lung Functioning · Bone Density
Frre .I ea hh Tes t RCI'i cws by Physicians from Mercy Physicians Group. Frte Immun izations for children aootClanus shots for aduhs by the BCBS Caring Van in cooperation with the Oklahoma Cily Count)' Heallh Dcpartment The Oklahoma Blood lnstilute mobile I'an will be present 10 take Blood 0003tions. Free Hearing Sc reenings and Free Chiropraclic Sc reenings. f rtC I'rtseri Jltion RC\'icwof your mediCa! ions by a Regislcn.>d Pharmacist.
Over ro rh' Healt h I\ s.~ ocia l i o n s and Organi 7.ll tions wi ll he Ilro\'illing Nutritional, Heallh, Aging, fitn r.ss, and \\' flin es.~ Informalion.
S(' n' ic f~ for Ih e lIIind and Phl'sicall l' Handica oQed will be presenlcd by lhe OK Dept ofRch:lb & Visual Services, The OK Library for the Blind & Physiculiy Handicapped, The Heanland Council for the Blind, and The Oklahoma Guide Dogs for Ihe Blind. Informalion lI'ill be available on Frte CI'R Cla sses by Ihe OKC Fire Department lnformalion will be Ol'ailable on Free Ma mm og ra ms al OUHSC (based QI1 il/cQllle qualificatiol/s). Children's fi nge l'j)rinls will be laken for fre e by Ihe Oklahoma Coumy Sherin's Depanmen!.
Ao OKe Fire Truck and an EMSA Ambulancc II ill be on display tor children and adullS. SI rGng & II ealt hy Ok1:th Gma If andbGGks will be dislribuled 10 allauendees. Door prizes will include (10) 5100 Hea n Sca ns al Oklahoma Heart Hospilal.
BRING THE ENTIRE FAMILY ON AUGUST 27th Free Immunizations, Health Screenings, Children'SFingerprint ing, and information on Nutrition, Health, Aging, Fitness, Wellness, Hearing & Visual Services. EAT BEITER! MOVE MORE! BE TOBACCO FREE! We appreciate our sponsors: ~i ~ tMeRtY llOIl" ...... Mlll.\. DOLESE 88.9 K-kElVE.
DRS In the News 7 July 2011 The Oklahoman: August 14, 2011 -Page 7a Oklahoma City, OK, Circulation: Daily: M-S: 216580; Sun: 268685
Circulation Source: New chief has plans for deaf school
EDUCATION SUPERINTENDENT IS SECOND DEAF PERSON TO HOLD THE POSITION I BY THE NUMBERS BY CARRIE COPPERNOLL reading program for all homa Association for the Staff Writer grades, including high Deaf, and Null said she OKLAHOMA SCHOOL FOR THE DEAF cceppemoll@ooubco,com school. works tirelessly to improve "Reading is the key to the quality of life for the .100: Percent graduati on rate for Oklahoma SULPHUR - The Okla everything:' Varner said. deaf and hard of hearing in School for the Deaf last year. homa School for the Deaf Varner said she plans to Oklahoma. .141: Num ber of students who lived on campus or will start this academic keep the four -day school Null said Varner will be a co mm uted last year. year with its first deaf fe week implemented last role model to the students .70: Number of stu dents who attended summer male superintendent. year. She likes that stu in her school. school this year, .30: Number of students who attended the KaArul Varner will lead dents can work longer days "About 93 percent of the school's two satellite preschool programs - at the the school, which was and then have three-day deaf children are born to Un iversi ty of Central Oklahoma and the University founded in 1897. hAnnVamer weekends at home with the hearing families who of Arts and Sciences of Oklahoma. She's only the second their families. may not know much about Superintendent, Okla SOURCE: STATE REHABlUr ATlON SEIMCES DE~AR TME N r deaf superintendent. homa School for the Oeaf Enrollment is up, Varner the deafness:' Null said. Varner said she has big said. More local school of "Those children often plans for the school, and ONUNE: Watch a video ficials statewide are learn times thought they are ONLINE she hopes her work will be with her online at News ing about the program. alone with this kind of an inspiration to deaf and OKcom by searching for hearing loss, so they [light] hard of hearing students. "KaAnn Varner.~ Funding issues up whenever they see any .'og "I think they will be ex One fear for many is that deaf adults, including Read more education news on NewsOK's cited to see that:' Varner to speak, so teachers didn't the local district would KaAnn, in various capaci Education Station blog. said, "I think they will allow her to learn how to have to pay for their stu ties in life that they can BL.QG.NEWSQK,COM/EDUCATIONSTATION know that a deaf person sign. dents to attend Oklahoma emulate as they grow up!' canbe ina leadershipposi Now experts know that School for the Deaf. But tion, that adeafpersoncan sign language adds to a that's not true, Varner be anything they want?' person's communication said. The school is funded arsenal, Varner said. through the Oklahoma Diagnosed at 6 It doesn't erase the abil Department of Rehabilita Doctors suspect Varner ity to speak. ticn Services, not the state went deaf sometime be "I did get a good educa Education Department, tween ages 2 and 4 but tion:' she said. though it must meet all the wasn't officially diagnosed "I had A's in almost ev same reqlrirements. until age 6. erything. They had no idea "It's a school:' Varner Her grandmother was what to do with me. They said. "It's a school like any the one who figured out had no idea?' other!' something was wrong. After high school, Var The only difference, she Varner spent the day ner spent two years living said, is the means of com with her grandmother as a at home and attending a munication. She said more child while her parents community college. She of her students have co worked. Her grandmother went on to the University chlear implants, which al let Varner watch a little of Montevallo, south of low students to hear, But television, Birmingham, Ala. She school officials still have She told Varner to tell earned her bachelor's in students use sign lan her when the volume was teaching children who are guage, in addition to lis loud enough on the old deaf or hard of hearing. tening and speaking skills. black and white set, but it She taught in Alabama "We want to work with was never loud enough, and Arkansas, where she everyone:' she said. Varner's condition is eventually met her hus Varner is known for her hereditary. Her daughter, band, 'Ibmmy. ability to work with stu Shannon, started losing They married and dents and families, as well her hearing at age 6, and moved to his home state of as her compassion and in the lo-year-old will even Oklahoma. 'Ibmmy is the telligence' said Lynn Null, tually attend the Okla football coach and athletic president ofthe Oklahoma homa School for the Deaf. director at Oklahoma Association for the Deaf. Varner's lJ-year-old son, School for the Deaf. "KaAnn has an inner Caleb, can hear. drive of passion and belief Varner attended her Plans for school that anyone with hearing hometown school in AId Varner has worked at loss can lead an independ more, Ala. The nearest the school for 13 years as a ent life just like anyone else school for the deaf was six teacher, assistant principal to succeed in whatever hours away, Because she and principal. they are doing and move could hear for a few years, As superintendent, her on:' Null said. she was able to talk. Doc main focus will be beefing Null has known Varner tors said if she used sign up vocational training and for about 15 years. Varner is language, she'd forget how expanding the school's vice president of the Okla-
DRS In the News 8 July 2011 The Journal Record: August 15, 2011 -Page 5a Oklahoma City, OK. Circulation: Daily: 3371 Circulation Source: Insurance Department Industries Board. He is vice president of Allstate Electrical Contractors in fines company oklahoma City. He also owns OKLAHOMA CITY - The Oklahoma Plainsmen Properties, a property man Insurance Department has fined an agement company. unlicensed service warranty company He will serve a four-year term and $25,000 for violations of the is replacing Mike Burton, who Unauthorized Insurance Business Act resigned. Senate confirmation is and the Service Warranty Act. required. Choice Home Warranty was fined Lynda Collins of Mannford was for operating without an Oklahoma appointed to the Commission for Insurance Department license. In July Rehabilitation Services. Collins is 2010, a cease-and-desist order was retired after serving 33 years at the issued to the company for similar viola Department of Rehabilitation Services. tions of state law. She is a graduate of East Central Despite not having a license, the University. Collins will serve a three company entered into a service war year term and is replacing Ben White. ranty contract in March with an The appointment does not require con Oklahoma consumer, according to the firmation from the Senate. department. Anne Morgan of Norman was The company, which has offices in appointed to the Oklahoma New York and New Jersey, has 30 days Department of Libraries Board. from when the order was issued to Morgan owns Morgan Consulting. She request an administrative hearing. - Staff report is a graduate of the University of North Texas and has a master's degree from Columbia University and a Ph.D. from Governor makes the University of Texas. Morgan will appointments serve a three-year term and is replacing Shelly Wilson, who resigned. Senate OKLAHOMA CITY - Gov. Mary Fallin confirmation is required. - Staff report has announced appointments to the Construction Industries Insurance agent's Board, Commission for The number of years license revoked Rehabilitation Lyndo Collins served STEIGLER - Oklahoma Insurance Services and at the Department of Commissioner John Doak has revoked Oklahoma Rehabilitation a Stigler woman's license to sell insur Department of Services. ance. Libraries Board. The agent and her husband have Tony Boevers of Piedmont was been charged with embezzlement of appointed to the Construction more than $37,000 from insurance
DRS In the News 9 July 2011 Lone Grove Ledger: August 17, 2011 -Page 12 Lone Grove, OK. Circulation: Weekly: 1152 Circulallon Source: Sulphur. KaAnn Varner Is Ihe first deaf woman ever named as superintendent 01 the Oklahoma School for the Deal, which was founded in Indian TerritOI)' in 1897. She Is also the first deaf leader in the top position since former su perintendent Ralph White, who served from 1981 to 1990.
DRS In the News 10 July 2011 Sulphur Tim es-Democrat : August 18. 2011 -Page 4 Sulphur. OK. Circulation: Weekly: 3448 Circulation Source: Pre-Season Pep Rally Set Aug. 30
With the start of football season upon us, now comes the chance for the entire community to share in building eltcitement for the various sc hool teams. The annual pre-season pep rally sponsored by Sulphur Main Street will be held on Tuesday. August 30 al 7:00 p.m .• at the Main Street Plaza. Rally organizers stale that the format of previous years' rallies will be followed. wherein band, cheerleaders and players will all participate and receive recogniti on. Sulphur team$ at all grade levels. plus the OSD and SKA teams will be present and honored. The always popular Flip Flop Hop will immediately follow the pep rall y until 10;00 p.m. Sulphur Main Street will be selling pulled pork sand wiches. chips and drinks at a tailgate party prior to the rally beginn ing at 5:30 p.m. Your presence will certainly add to the eltcite ment . as we give a big boost \0 our youth.
DRS In the News 11 July 2011 Sulphur TImes-Democrat: August 18, 2011 -Page 8 Sulphur, OK. Circulalion: Weekly: 3448 Circulation Source:
Help the Sulphur BULLDOGS and the OSD INDIANS kick off the football season by attending the community PEPRALLY & FLIP FLOP HOP ON MAIN STREET
Tail Gate Party 5:30-7p.m. Pep Rally 7:00-8:00 Flip Flop Hop 8:00-10:00
at the Main Street Plaza Tuesday,
SHS BULLDOGS August 30 Players! Coaches! Cheerleaders! Band! Fans! OSD INDIANS '7Je:J!rman's CLAGG FUNERAL HOME Family Owned and Operated Joe DeArman, Bill Crawford, Sondra and Major Clagg
DRS In the News 12 July 2011 The Edmond Sun : August 20, 2011 -Page 2b Edmond, OK. Circulation: Daily: 6484 Circulation Source: Edmond graduate joins Chesapeake Nathan Madison, a 2006 graduate of Edmond Memorial High School, recently accepted employ ment with Chesapeake Energy Corp. Madison was one of six interns chosen for Chesapeake's Project SPARCH pilot r-----:::::---, program, which enabled him to get work expe rience in two of Chesapeake's departments. Following the Madison six-week internship, Madison was chosen for full-time employment in the records department of Chesapeake Energy. His pri mary duty will be transfer ring information on oil and natural gas wells from old paper files to the company's computer system. Chesapeake Energy Corp. is the fifth company in Oklahoma to become involved in Project SPARCH. It's the first that isn't a hospi tal. Project SPARCH is open to young people between the ages of 18 and 24 and arrived in Oklahoma about three years ago when offi cials at the University of Oklahoma pitched it to the Oklahoma Department of Rehabilitation Services. Project SPARCH's primary goal is to provide individuals with disabilities opportuni ties to further job skills training and work experi ences to increase their chances of securing employment in the future which in tum enables them to become more independ ent Madison is the son of David and Sherri Madison of Edmond.
DRS In the News 13 July 2011 The Norm an Transcri pt Augusl 20, 2011 -Page Sa Norman , OK. Circulalion: Daily: 14739 Circulation Source: Medical briefs
Dr, J. Michael Jones Millet's oo-wakers state was reeentty selected as that he is patient, a good acImWICstrator for Visual teacher, stays up-to-date on SeMces, a division of the the latest tech IOiogy md """""'" _ of ciients always say they IeMl Rehabilitation 5a'vices. so much fran hin. Miller's VISUal SeMces' progams career with the state begM in offer employment deve1op VIfliIa as a teacher and ment, indepelldellt living counseior for 25 years, then at training,lb'aty seMces, the O!dahoma l..I:my for the business ownership, educa Blind and Physically Handi tional materials and technoIo capped in rehabilitation r1i for Oklahomans with low technoiogy for five years and vision or blil'\dness. currently at the visuai services Jones' career has spanned more than 25 years on four ""'~. continents. He was previously employed as senior proiessof of special education in Lushoto, Tanzania in Africa and administrated two federal progr.rns as executive director for the division of rehabilitation in Hawaii. 'MliIe in Hawaii, Jones IaI.nChed for,... youth """""""'" with disabilties., """"""' created c:utmg edge b:!l;I VIIJluyy .... UIJf .. 11S r~ childlell with disabilities living on rural islands and mentored ,_professionals in AIhaI:liIttaOOn
The Oklahoma Com mission__ for Rehabilitationhonored Paul Miller of Norman for 35 yeatS of seMce. Millef is a rehabilitation specialist III and assIstive technology specialist for the visuai services division at the visual services center located at Shepherd Mall for the Oklahoma Department of Rehabilitation Services.
DRS In the News 14 July 2011 The Seminole Producer: August 21 ,2011 -Page 1a Seminole, OK. Circulation: Daily: 5228
Circulation Source:
Former Seminole man Paul Miller (middle), was recently honored for his loyal service of 35 years. Seminole Man Honored For 35 Years of Service Darrick Conner "It is a rare accomplishment Blind and Physically Handi Managing Editor for an employee to give so capped where he worked for many years of service," Com five years in rehabilitation The Oklahoma Commis missioner Ray Kirk said. "We technology. Miller is currently sion of Rehabilitation Services are very proud of Mr. Miller with the visual services center. recently honored Paul Miller, and honor his achievement." Paul Miller is currently a formerly of Seminole, for 35 Miller's colleagues refer to resident of Norman, but says, years of dedicated service to him as patient, a good teacher "Seminole is my hometown." the state of Oklahoma and its and very knowledgeable about For more information about citizens with disabilities. the latest technology. Accord DRS, call (405) 951.3400. According to the Depart ing to DRS, clients always Also, visit DRS online at ment of Rehabilitation Services say they learn so much from www.okdrs.gov for compre (DRS), Miller is a rehabilita Miller. hensive information about tion specialist III and assistive Miller began his thirty-five DRS, including employment technology specialist for the year career in Vinita, Oklaho related education and self-suf visual services division located ma as a teacher and counselor ficiency services provided to at Shephard Mall in Oklahoma for 25 years. He then went to Oklahomans with all types of City. the Oklahoma Library for the disabilities.
DRS In the News 15 July 2011 Weatherford Daily News: August 23, 2011 -Page 6a Weatherford, OK. Circulation: Daily: 4461 Circulation Source: Weatherford's Ridgeway honored for 10 years of service OKLAHOMA CITY - The Oklahoma consider Ridgeway an invaluable asset to Commission for Rehabilitation Services DRS and the people it serves. recently honored Weatherford's Rhonda Ridgeway's 30-year career has been Ridgeway for 30 years of service to the entirely with DRS and she says "the State of Oklahoma and its citizens with satisfaction of seeing DRS clients become disabilities. Ridgeway is a vocational self-confident, successful and productive rehabilitation technician III for the employees makes it all worthwhile. » vocational rehabilitation division of the For more information about DRS, Oklahoma Department of Rehabilitation call (405) 951 -3400 or (800) 845 .8476. Services (DRS). Also, visit DRS online at www.okdrs. uIt is a rare accomplishment for an gov for comprehensive information about employee to give so many years of DRS , including employment-related service. We are very proud of Ms . education and self-sufficiency services Ridgeway and honor her achievement,» provided to Oklahomans with all types of Commissioner Ray Kirk said. Colleagues disabilities.
Provided Shown above, Rhon da Ridgeway of Weatherford (center) was recently honored for her 30 years of ser vice to the State of Okla homa and those with disabilities by serving as a vocational rehabilt ation technician with the Oklahoma Depart ment of Rehabilitation Services (DRS). Her 3D-year career has been entirely with DRS.
DRS In the News 16 July 2011 The Oklahoman: August 23, 2011 -Page 12a Oklahoma City, OK. Circulation: Daily: M-S: 216580; Sun: 268685 Circulation Source: Rehabilitation Services will require some clients to wait
BY WAYNE GREENE Tulsa World AT A GLANCE [email protected]
The agency that retrains HISTORY OF WAITING disabled Oklahomans to re Waiting lists have been a fact of life for clients of tum to the workforce has the Oklahoma Department of Rehabilitation Ser implemented a waiting list vices since 1995. for sennces for the first tUne Federal reg ulations require the state to prioritize in more than two years. clients according to the level of need with the People with the most se most disabled people getting top pri ori ty. vere disabilities and those Currently. the department sorts clients into three now being served will not categories: not severe, severe and most severe. be affected by the change, Before July 1, 2005, the clients were sorted into but new clients whose dis four categories for prioritization. abilities are at the lowest Since 1995, the top priority group has only been level will have to wait for completely closed to new clients three times: Dec. 13.1995, to April 25,1996; Dec. 23, 2002, to July 1, openings before they will 2003, and Feb. U 2008, to Sept. 16, 2008. The list be served, said Michael was closed to clients seeking certain services from O'Brien, Oklahoma De Aug. 10, 2004, to Sept. 14, 2004. partment of Rehabilitation The agency's lowest priority category has been Services director. fully or partially closed for m uch more extensive The agency isn't out of periods, including from Oct. 16, 1995, to July 1, 2001; money, and current clients July 31, 2002, to April U 2006, and Jan. 19, 2007, shouldn't be anxious t o May 18, 2009. about their services con The agency announced a resumption of waiting tinuing' he said. lists for the lowest priority group M onday. "Yes, there's a waiting list, but we're also at the highest level of service in of $1 million to the agency have come forward looking years:, O'Brien said. "So when lost federal matching for help, he said. there are people who will funds are figured in. The Since its creation in have to wait, but we're serv agency's budget was uncut 1993, the Rehabilitation ing more people than we the two previous years. Services Department has have in a really long time?' Increased demand is a gone through periods In federal fiscal year greater factor in the need when waiting lists were in 2011, the agency served for the waiting list than a effect with some clients 26,631 Oklahomans - a 31 lack of funding, O'Brien waiting three years for ser percent increase from said. vices from the agency. 2009 levels. Higher unemployment O'Brien said he doubted The Legislature has in general has meant high such lengthy waiting lists been generous with the er levels of unemployment will recur because the agency in tight budgetary among the disabled, in agency will be more effi times, because lawmakers creasing demand for the cient at processing clients. understand that the de agency's services. There are about 580,000 partment takes unemploy Also, the agency's histo disabled Oklahomans, and ed, disabled people and ry of waiting lists may have the department will only helps them become pro held back demand in the be able serve a fraction of ductive, O'Brien said. past. When the agency them, meaning there's al State funding to the de maintained open services ways the potential for more partment was cut 1 percent for years, some of that demand than the agency last year, resulting in a loss pent-up demand may can meet, O'Brien said.
DRS In the News 17 July 2011 Tulsa World: Augusl 23, 2011 -Page 5a Tulsa, OK. Circulation: Daily: 135166 Circulation Source: State's disabled on waiting list again • Current agency Higher unemployment in History of waiting completely closed to new general has meant higher clients and people clients three times: De<:. 13. levels of unemployment who are the most Waiting lists have been a 1995. to April 25, 1996; Dec. among the d isabled, increas fact of li fe for clients of the 23, 2002. to July I, 2003, ingdemand for services. Oklahom a Department of severely disabled and feb. 11, 2008, to Sept. Also, the age ncy's his won't be affected. Rehabilitation Services since 16.2008. The list was closed tory of waiting lists might 1995. to clients seeking certain have held back demand in Federal regulations require services from Aug. 10, 2004, the past. w hen the agency BY WAYNE GREENE the state to prioritize clients to Sept. 14, 2004. maintained open services WOfld Senior Writer according to the: level 01 The agency's lowest prior· for years, some of that pent need. with the most·disabled ity category has been fully up demand might have come O KLAHOMA CITY - The people getting top priority. or partially closed for much forward looking for help, he agency that retrains disabled The department sorts more extensive periods, said. clients into three categories Oklahomans to return to the incl uding from Oct. 16. 1995, Si nce it was created in work force has implemented - not severe, severe and to July 1, 2001; July 31, 2002, 1993, the department has a waiting list for serv ices for most severe. Before July 1. to Ap!"illl, 2006, and Jan. gone through periods when the first time in more than 2005. the clien ts were sorted 19.2007, to May 18, 2009. waiting lists were in e ffect two years. into four categories for priori· The agency announced a with some clients waiting as People with the most se tization. resumption of waiting lists long as three years for ser vere disabilities and those Since 1995. the top for the lowest priority group vices. priority group has only been now being served will not be on Monday. O'Brien said he doubted affected by the change, but that such lengthy waiting new clients whose disabili lists would recur because the ties are at the lowest level O'Brien said. USo there are people and turns them into agency w ill be more efficient will have to wait for openi ngs people who will have to wait, taxpaying residents, O'Brien at processing clients and before they will be served, but we're se rv ing more peo said. openi ng up spots for those in said Michael O'Brien, d irec ple than we have in a really State funding to the de· need of service. tor of the Oklahoma Depart long time." partment was cut I percent About 580,000 Oklaho ment of Rehabilitation Ser In federal fiscal year 20ll, last year. That resulted in a mans are d isabled, and the vices. the agency served 26,631 loss of $1 million when lost agency w ill be able to serve T he agency isn't o ut of Oklahomans - a 31 percent fede ral matching funds are only a fraction of them, money, and current clients increase from 2009 levels. figu red in. In the two previ· meaning there's always the shouldn't he anx i ou .~ ahout The Legislarure has been o us years, the agency's hud potentia l for more demand their services continuing, he generous w ith the agen get was uncut. than the agency can meel, said. cy during tight budgetary Increased demand is a O'Brien said. "Yes, there's a waiting list, times because lawmakers greater factor in the need to but we're also at the high understand that the agency create the waiting list than a Wayne Greene 918·581·8l08 est levcl of service in years,H takes unemployed, disabled lack of funding, O'Brien sai d. [email protected]
DRS In the News 18 July 2011 The Bristow News & Record-Citizen: August 24, 2011 -Page 3a Bristow, OK. Circulation: Bi-Weekly: 2188
Circulation Source: Delays of employment servIces for some Oklahomans with disabilities Michael O'Brien, Ed. D., straining fiscal and staff employment," he explained. director of the Oklahoma resources," O'Brien said. "In "We will review the waiting Department of Rehabilitation these situations, federal law list every 90 days with an Services (DRS), announced requires that DRS serve expectation that we will be that a temporary waiting list Oklahomans who need our able to begin serving some for vocational rehabilitation help most because they have people each time, depending and employment services the most significant barriers to on available funding." began Aug. 15 for one group of new applicants. DRS' Vocational Rehabilitation and Visual Services staff will con tinue to serve 16,952 current clients and new applicants in two categories for those with the most significant disabili ties. These clients will experi ence no delays or reductions in their services. "The economic downturn has significantly increased demand for our services, while
DRS In the News 19 July 2011 The Ponca City News: August 24, 20 11 -Page 2c Ponca City, OK. CIrculation: Dalty: 91 60 Circulation Source: Jones Appointed New Administrator for ODRS Visual Services OKLAHOMA CITY - Dr. J , educated, have some wealth He was elected six times Alabama and was appointed Butts County, Ga. Blinded at ness," Jones said. Michael Jones was recently and political clout or per to serve as president of the by the governor to represent age 11, he continued to wo rk The Di vision of Visual Ser selected as administrator for sonal influence, then they are National Federation of the all citizens with disabilities the farm until his family vices empowers individuals Visual Services, a division of controlling their own desti Blind of Alabama and led on Alabama's Help America moved to Alabama. His pub with disabilities to improve the Oklahoma De partment of nies and have achieved social Alabama's Braille literacy Vote Act committee. lic school education includ employment, economic self Rehabilitation Services. justice for themselves," he movement, culminati ng with Jones' international wo rk ed five years in a residen suffic iency, in dependence Visual Services' programs explained. administrative rule chang has included building univer tial school for the blind and and integration into society. ofTer employment develop He served seven years as es requiring that Braille be sity teacher training programs seven years at a local pub As a result, thousands whose ment, independent living a rehabil itation program taught and emphasized in in special education in East lic school. Upon graduation disabilities kept them from training, library services, administrator, 10 years as a Alabama's school system. He Africa, stafT training in reha from Pell City Hi gh School, working become taxpayers business ownership, educa reha bi litation counselor, was the creator of the Braille bilitation techniques to assist he entered Auburn University each year, eliminating their tional materials and technol seven years as a university Writers for Bli nd Children persons who are blind in both and, in 1985, earned a degree need for disability benefits ogy fo r Oklahomans with low instructor and three years Program, which gave a free Northern and Eastern Europe in rehabilitation. He earned and social assistance. For vision or blindness. working in international reha Braille Writer to every blind and South East Asia. Addi a doctoral degree also from more information about Jones' career in services to bilitation programs fo r people student in Alabama. Braille tionally, Jones built a commu Auburn University in Auburn, career counseling and guid people with disabilities has with disabilities. writers are Braille typewrit nity rehabilitation program in Ala. in 2008. ance, rehabilitation equip spanned mo re than 25 years He was previously employed ers that enable people who Bangladesh that has grown to J ones is the father of IS-year ment, education or training on four continents. as senior professor of special are blind to take notes or com serve more than 300 people old Laura. and job placement services, "What attracted me to Okla education in Lushoto, Tan municate by typing keys that with rights-based education "I am most proud of training phone the nearest Visual Ser homa is the broad scope of zania in Africa and adminis correspond to the six dots and work skills programs. indivi dual blind people to use vices office toll free at l-SOO- DRS' responsibilities," Jones tered two federal programs used in Braille code. Jones was born in AUanta, the tools that free them from 847-4042 or visit www.o kdrs. said. "I have the operational as executive director for the Jones spearheaded local Ga., and raised on a farm in the disabling aspects of blind- gov . freedom in Visual Services to division of rehabilitation in transit programs to connect use my ski.lls and experience Hawaii. isolated comm unities, he to help our customers become While supervising rehabil established a network fo r masters of their own destiny." itation programs in Hawaii, parents of blind children, as "When our customers are Jones launched new employ well as established a diabe ment programs for youth with tes action network throughout disabilities, created cutti ng Alabama. edge technology programs for Additionally he served as children wi th disabilities liv the chair and principal lob ing on rural islands and men byist fo r the legislative action tored professionals in reha committee representing all bilitation techniques. disability groups from across
DRS In the News 20 July 2011 Ringling Eagle: August 25, 2011 -Page 6 Ringling. OK. Circulation: Weekly: 1088 Circulation Source: State Agency honors Hawkins for 40 years of service
The Oklahoma Com mission for Rehabilitation Services recently honored Larry Hawkins for 40 years of service to the state of Oklahoma and its citizens with disabilities. Hawkins is Superinten dent at the Oklahoma School for the Deaf (OSD) and Oklahoma School for the Blind (OSB), divisions of the OklAhomA DepArt ment of Rehabilitation Services (DRS). "It is a rare accomplish ment for an employee to give so many years of ser ,... ", ".. ,,.. vice. We are very proud of • Mr. Hawkins and honor his achievemen t," Com ~ '''" ..,,',. "~,,, missioner Ray Kirk said. Hawkins' 40 year career with the state ofOklahoma began in higher education, then OSD and OSB. Hawkins resides in Sul RHS GRADUATE larry Hawkins (center) was honored by the Oklahoma Commis phur, but Ringling is his sion for Rehabilitation Services for 40 years of service to the state of Oklahoma hometown. and its citizens with disabilities, (Submitted Photo)
DRS In the News 21 July 2011 Sulphur TImes-Democrat: August 25. 2011 -Page 11 Sulphur, OK. Circulation: Weekly: 3448 Circulalion Source:
'" ,,,"""", '" ,,~, """" .... "'~ •
Oklahoma Commission for Rehabilitation Services' Commissioner Steve Shelton, Oklahoma Commission for Rehabilitation Services' Commissioner Steve Shelton, left, left, and Commissioner Ray Kirk, right, honor OSO and Oklahoma School for the Blind and Commissioner Ray Kirk, right, honor OSO technology and medial supervisor Harvey Superintendent Larry Hawkins on his 40-year career at the schools. Stinson on his 40-year career at 050. State Agency Honors Two Local Educators
O KL AHOMA C ITY-- The The two were Larry Hawkins, for thc Deaf (OSO). chairman Ray Ki rk. He also said Stinson 'sentire 4O-yearearecr online a[ www.okdrs.gov for Oklahoma Commissio n for who is retiring in September after Both men were awarded Ihe commissiOn is proud of both with the Slate of Oklahoma has comprehensive information Rehabilitation Services recently a long tenure as superintendent pl aques of appreciation and re men and their achievements. been with OSO. about DRS, including employ honored two long tenured em of Oklahoma School for the cogniton recently. HawkinS' 4O-year career with He lives in Sulphur, but Heav ment-related education and self ployees who served major roles Deaf and Oklahoma School for " It is a rare accomplishment the state of Oklahoma began in ener is his home town. sufficiency services provided to at Oklahoma School for the the blind. The other is Harvey for an employee to give so many higher educmion, then OSO and For more information abom Oklahomans with all types of Deaf and Oklahoma School for Stinson, technology and media yearsof service," said Department OSB. Hawki ns resides in Sulphur, DRS, call 405.951.3400 or disabilities. the Blind. supervisor al Oklahoma School of Rehab iii tali on Servi ces (DRS) bu t Ringli ng is his home town. 800.845.8476. Also, visit DRS
DRS In the News 22 July 2011 Beaver Herald-Democrat: August 25, 2011 -Page 10a Beaver, OK. Circulation: Weekly: 1650 Circulation Source: Disab il ity services may be delayed OKLAHOMA CITY - Michael O'Brien, Ed. D., di rector of the Oklahoma De partment of Rehabilitation Ser vices (DRS), announced that a temporary waiting list for vocational rehabilitation and employment services began Aug. 15 for one group of new applicants with the least signifi cant barriers to employment. DRS' Vocational RehabiHta tion and Visual Services staff will continue to serve 16,952 current clients and new appli cants in two categories for those with the most significant disabilities. These clients will experience no delays or reduc tions in their services. "The economic downturn has significantly increased demand for our services, while strain ing fiscal and staff resources," O'Brien said. "I am proud of the job our staff has done in the face of this challenge, but we've reached the point where a waiting list must be imple mented. "In these situations, federal law requires that DRS serve Oklahomans who need our help most because they have the most significant barriers to employment," he explained. "We will review the waiting list every 90 days with an expec tation that we will be able to begin serving some people each time, depending on the number on the list and available fund ing." After two years and two months with no waiting lists the longest time in DRS his tory - O'Brien and the Com mission for Rehabilitation Ser vices primarily considered three factors when making the decision. In state fiscal year 2011, DRS was able to invest an ad ditional $10.9 million and avoid a waiting list due to stimulus and other one-time federal funding. Vocational Rehabilitation and Visual Services staff will con tinue to process new applica tions and place applicants in groups based on the signifi cance of their disabil ities. When funds are identified to pay for their services, appli cants on waiting lists will be served based on the dates of their applications.
DRS In the News 23 July 2011 The Journal Record August 25,2011 -Page 17a Oklahoma City, OK Circulation: Daily: 3371 Circulation Source:
Jones named Visual Services administrator OKLAHOMA CITY - J. Michael Jones is the new division admin ister of Visual Services, a state program that provides vocational rehabilitation, employment and independent-living training for Oklahomans who are blind or visually impaired. Visual Services is a division of the Oklahoma Department of Rehabilitation Services. Jones served seven years as a rehabilitation program adminis trator, 10 years as a rehabilitation counselor, seven years as a uni versity instructor and three years working in international rehabili tation programs for people with disabilities. He was senior professor of special education in Lushoto, Tanzania in Africa.
DRS In the News 24 July 2011 Tulsa Beacon: August 25, 2011 -Page 2a Tulsa, OK. Circulation: Weekly: 2508 Circulation Source: Fallin has appointments to boards Governor Mary Fallin annowlCed appointments to the Oklahoma State Council for Interstate Adult Offender Supervision, Oklahoma Health Information Exchange Trust, Construction Industries Board, Commission for Rehabilitation Services, Polygraph Examiners Board, Board on Judicial Compensation and the Oklahoma Department of Libraries Board. Oklahoma State Council for Interstate Adult Offender Supervision Richard Dugger of Hammon is a lawyer, rancher and is currently the chairman of the Pardon and Patrol Board. Senate confirmation is required for his appointment. Oklahoma Health Information Exchange Trust Joe Nicholson of Tulsa is the vice president and national medical director at Cancer Treatment Centers of America. He attended College of Osteopathic Medicine at Oklahoma State University in Tu lsa. His appointment doesn't need confirmation from the Senate. Construction Industries Board Tony Boevers of Piedmont is the vice president of Allstate Electrical Contractors in Oklahoma City. He also owns Plainsmen Properties, a property management company. Commission for Rehabilitation Services Lynda Collins of Mannford is retired after serving 33 years at the Department of Rehabilitation Services. Coll ins will serve a three year term and is replacing Ben White. Polygraph Examiners Board Gary Thornberry of Okarche serves as a lieutenant for the Oklal10ma Highway Patrol. Board on Judicial Compensation Fred Hall of Oklahoma City is the chairman and CEO at Hall Capital, a private equity firm. He previously served as the chairman for the Oklahoma Transportation Authority. Oklahoma Department of Libraries Board Anne Morgan of Norman owns Morgan Consulting, a national consulting firm that sets up new fOW1dations, advises on gover nance, policies, board development and fund raising.
DRS In the News 25 July 2011 The Black Chronicle: August 25, 2011 -Page 11b Oklahoma City, OK, Circulation: Weekly: 6461 Circulation Source: Stanley Young Dead Aug. 11 ; Services Held Constl\1ction WOlkeI'
Slanlcy L Yuo.BIg.57,amn, Slru:tion \\'Ofk~T.tIi..'\I(. I Aug. II. Fln ,-JI~ ..... ' icc< 11'CfC h...... m Aug.. I 0;11 T~'111ple & SoIL~ Ftn."T.lI DirecIo!s.. R...... '. Janle:!i Young offi.:i· / "'" bllCnllO.'1I1I:t;:lrl.lalTried I~ l Sunl.), 1_ \ o ..~ CenlCfcry. Srati."LaRoc YruJg\\astun M~'S/t...-lk (1 ipp.;:r. l.aSoll)"l ToI<..'S, mbt.24.1 DRS In the News 26 July 2011 Heavener Ledger: August 25, 2011 -Page 1 Heavener, OK. Circulation: Weekly: 1891 Circulation Source: Harvey Stinson Honored For 40 YearsOf Service The Oklahoma Com sioner Ray Kirk said. mission for Rehabilitation Stinson's entire 40 year Services recently hon ored career with the state of Harvey Stinson fo r 40 Oklahoma has been with years of service to the state OSD. Stinson resides in of Oklahoma and its citi Sulphur, but Heavener is zens with disabilities. his home town. Stinson is the technology For more information and media supervisor at about DRS, call the Oklahoma School for 405.95 1.3400 or the Deaf (OSD) division of 800.845.8476. Also, visit the Oklahoma Department DRS on line at of Rehabilitation Services www.okdrs.gov for com (DRS). prehensive information " It is a rare accomplish about DRS. including em ment for an employee to ployment-related educa give SO many years of ser tion and self-sufficiency vice. We are very proud of services provided to Okla Mr. Stinson and honor his homans with all types of achievement:' Commis- disabilities. DRS In the News 27 July 2011 Enid News & Eagle: August 27, 2011 -Page 1 a Enid, OK. Circulation: Daily: M-S 18752; Sun: 19029 Circulation Source: 'lransitioning to work Price to write book chapter on rehabilitation issues By Phyllis Zorn He was tapped to write a Stoff Writer chapter of an upcoming lnstitute on Rehabilitation Issues book Jason Price has seen the voca about how the Affordable Health tional rehabilitation program Care Act can be used to get more from both sides, and now his people off th e rolls of the expertise has been called lIpon to Supplemental Security Income help write a book 011 best prac and Social Security Disability tices for the program. Income programs and transition OriginaUy from Dover, Price JOlon Price them to work - or back to work now is an Oklahoma Department as the case may be. of Rehabi litation Services programs man ager in Oklahoma City. See I'RIC E, Page A3 DRS In the News 28 July 2011 Enid News & Eagle: August 27, 2011 -Page 3a Enid: OK, Circulation: Daily: M-S:18752; Sun: 19029, Continued From Page 1a PRICE Contin ued from Page Al ''I'm an exam ple of that," trying to get as many people ance," Price s.,id, Pricc said, " I have cerebral ofT as wc can." The upcoming book will be pal sy and I'm in a wheelchair One of the useful provi ed ited and co-chaired by - have been my whole life, sionsofthe AfTonL1b[e HC.1 Jth Michael O'Brien, director of And I used to collect SSt" Care Act is that in 20 14, pe0- DRS. O'Brien is a certified Price's chapter wiU focus ple with dis.1bilities can no rehabilitation cou nse[or and on benefits planning and longer be exemptcd from vocationn[ evaluation spec ial work incenti ves, insurance on grou nds of pre ist. He is activc at the I13tional Price s.,id he signed up for ex isting cond itions. level in several professional the Vocational Rehabilitation "Also it gives disabled organiz.1tions, including the program after hi~h sc hool. people a chance:' Price s.1id. Commiss ion for Certified The program gOl hml a better " It bro.,dens the scope of Rel",biJitmion Counselors, the wheelchair and allowed him Medicaid." Cou ncil of State Administra to go to co Uege , He got his As of now the upper tors of Vocational Rehabilita bachelor's degree in mass income limit for Medicaid is tion and the Vocmional com municat ions and journal [50 percent of poverty, The Evahmtioll and Career Assess ism from Northea<;tem State act will change that to 300 ment Professiona[s, at Tahlequah in [997, percent of poveny, Price s., id. Next he spent aoout four "It's going to changc thc years as a sports and features desti ny of people who are dis writer for the Kingfisher abled and don't have insur- Times and Free Press and the EJ Reno Tribune, In [999 he went to work for the Vocati ona l Rchabili tation program as a media relations director, After changing his employment, he we111to work on hi s master's degree, He earned his master's degree in vocational rehabili tat ion in 2008 from the Unive rs ity of North Thxas in Denton, "[(s the practice of hc[ping dis..1b[ed people regain or retain . emp[oyment" Price s., id. '1'he coo[ thing about what wc're Iryi ng to do - the very premise of disability is that they cannot do any work, We're try ing 10 ease the bur den on Socia[ Security. We're DRS In the News 29 July 2011 The Norman Transcript: August 29, 2011 -Page 8a Norman, OK. Circulation: Daily: 14739 Circulation Source: The Oklahoma Department of Rehabilitation Services will delay employment services for some Oklahomans with disabilities according to Michael O'Brien, Ed. D., director. A waiting list for vocational rehabilitation and employment services began Aug. 15 for new applicants with the least significant baniers to employment. DRS' Vocational Rehabilitation and Visual Services staff will continue to serve 16,952 clients and applicants with the most significant disabilities. These clients will experience no reductions in services. Stimulus funding has been exhaust ed and the state budget continues to see reductions. DRS eams four federal dollars for every state dollar invested in vocational rehabilitation and employ ment programs, so a $1 state reduction triggers the loss of an additional $4 federal dollars. When funds are identified to pay for services, applicants will be served based on the dates of applications. DRS In the News 30 July 2011