Articles from prior issues of The Advocate

September/October, 2001

Michigan Chapter Hosts State Conference
by Mimi Wirtanen, Michigan Association President

THE MICHIGAN CHAPTER OF NADE, in conjunction with the Michigan DDS, held their annual State Training conference on September 7, 2001. Conference co-chairs Mimi Wirtanen and Marty Marshall report it as a resounding success with over 180 participants. This was the largest training event ever conducted by MADE or the Michigan DDS. Attendees came from all of the DDS offices in the state and also included employees from other Family Independence Agency programs, advocacy groups and employees of disability programs in the private sector. Five employees represented our newest corporate member, L & S Associates of Okemos, Michigan. NADE President Sue Heflin’s visit gave her an opportunity to hear about Prototype first hand and allowed her to share information about NADE’s activities and the benefits of membership.

MADE President Mimi Wirtanen, Chuck Jones (representing FIA, our parent agency) and Sue Heflin opened the conference with welcoming remarks. Linda Dorn, Michigan DDS Director and NCDDD Vice-President later provided an update on agency issues and the latest from NCDDD.

The Detroit subchapter produced an entertaining and informative DDS version of “The Weakest Link.” Contestants were asked questions about DDS facts and trivia. Dr. Michael McManus, an ophthalmologist who works in the Traverse City DDS, explained the changes in the Vision Listings in regard to visual fields. Gary Talbot from general Motors enlightened us in the area of mobility engineering.

Len McCullough and Dr. Timothy Broe, noted authorities on Traumatic Brain Injury, gave a very pertinent presentation on the subject. Mr. McCullough also performs consultative examinations for the DDS, so he was able to provide information that was specifically useful in the adjudication of SSA disability claims.

Dr. Scott Sheperd encouraged us to view stress and change differently. He challenged us to accept responsibility in our lives and provided strategies to improve the quality of our lives. Instead of burning out, we can “rekindle the spirit.”

A highlight of the conference was the Awards Luncheon. Lural Baltimore, MADE member and Lansing DDS Area Administrator, presented “Extra Mile Awards” to Mary Chisholm (Detroit), Cathy Ur (Kalamazoo), and Kathy Pursel (Lansing). This year a special “Extra Mile Award” was presented to the DDS Executive Council for their ongoing support of MADE and NADE through the years and particularly for this State Training Conference. Also recognized for their service to the organization were State and Regional Board Members: Claudette Benser, Carol Wallace, Marty Marshall, Tom Ward, Terri Stevens, Nancy Nordmann-Reyes, Kathy Pursel, Theresa Furget and Dale Foot.

Now that we have warmed up with this conference, the Michigan Chapter is looking forward to hosting the 2002 Great Lakes Regional training Conference. This will be held in Battle Creek MI (home of Tony the Tiger!) on May 8-10, 2002. We look forward to seeing you there!