The beacon, Vol. 4, no. 3 (Summer 2005)

BEACON GEORGIA
the DEPARTMENT OF LABOR

Summer 2005
FROM THE COMMISSIONER Michael L.Thurmond
HONORING THOSE WHO SERVE
This issue of the Beacon is dedicated to the men and women of the United States Armed Forces. It's a very small recognition for the gigantic service they provide to the American people.
During the Georgia Department of Labor's Annual Veterans' Workforce Conference held in Augusta, GA, I marveled at the pride and patriotism of the Veterans who have served, as well as those who are serving our country.
We sometimes fail to fully appreciate the sacrifices military personnel and their families make to our nation. The sacred oath taken by every soldier, sailor, marine and airman, "to support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies..." is paramount.
This commitment to defend America is not taken lightly by these courageous men and women. From the moment they swear and affirm this oath, their job is to protect our country from all domestic and foreign enemies. This defines bravery and heroism.
The Georgia Department of Labor reaffirms our commitment to those who serve in the U.S. Military. Our Veterans Employment and Training Services Unit is designed specifically to assist veterans with employment, training, education and transition back into the civilian workforce.
To America's Armed Forces and veterans, we thank you for your service to our nation. I salute you in the manner learned from one of GDOL's most vocal veterans, "Ranger" Bob Roesch,
"Hooah!"
INSIDE
theBEACON
I DVOP: Veterans' Outreach
DVOP serves more than 65,000 veterans each year in Georgia. Find out more inside . . . . . . .PAGE 2
I Vets' Conference Employs and Empowers
Veterans' Workforce Conference attracts 268 attendees . . . . . . . . .PAGE 4
I VR and VA: Partnering to Assist Disabled Veterans
VA and VR share in achieving successful outcomes with clients seeking rehabilitative services . . . . . . . . .PAGE 5

"SPECIAL EDITION"
Our Heroes in Uniform

Vol. Four/Issue 3

There are more than 1.2 million men and women serving in the United States Military around the world. Approximately 11,463 of them are active duty National Guard personnel and reservists from Georgia. Seven of these reservists are dedicated employees of the Georgia Department of Labor (GDOL). This special edition of the Beacon salutes these employees, veterans and every member of the U.S. Armed Forces.
President Abraham Lincoln wrote that our duty as citizens is "to care for them who have borne the battle." At the GDOL, we ask: What can we do for the men and women in the military who left jobs and families to serve America?

The Georgia Department of Labor will continue to encourage employers to give special consideration to these heroic and skillful men and women. Veterans possess considerable talents and a discipline only the military can instill. They are reliable and hard-working. They make dynamic workers because they have filled key leadership roles in the military. Military personnel also make ideal mentors for youth.
Therefore, it is fitting that we give tribute to those who serve America. They've laid their lives on the line. And at the Georgia Department of Labor, we say "thank you" to every member of the U.S. Military for your service to America.

GDOL Salutes:
Bani S. Bunyan is a certified rehabilitation counselor with Vocational Rehabilitation in Augusta. He was deployed with the U.S. Army, 482nd Trans Company, out of Cherokee, IA.
Lavontee M. (Kelly) Gipson is an employment and training consultant with Employment Services. In the U.S. Navy, she served six months in Bahrain in 2002.
Patricia Jackson (not pictured) is a secretary at the Atlanta South Metro Career Center. She is a sergeant in the U.S. Army, and is serving in Washington, D.C.
Mark Johansen is a rehabilitation employment specialist with Vocational Rehabilitation in Savannah. He is with the Army National Guard Aviation regiment and is currently deployed in Afghanistan.
Joecille Morris is a DOL services specialist in the Gwinnett Career Center. She served in Kuwait in 2003 and 2004. Rashaud Smith is a DOL services specialist in the Macon Career Center. He returned to his GDOL duties last year after serving in Qatar and Saudi Arabia. Cheryl D. Totton is a labor market specialist in Workforce Information and Analysis. She is in the U.S. Air Force and is stationed in Germany.

Joecille Morris

Mark Johansen with family

Lavontee M. (Kelly) Gipson

Bani S. Bunyan
For a detailed look at all state employees serving in the United States Reserves, please see the Spring 2005 edition of The Georgia Statement published by the Georgia Merit System. The publication is accessible online at www.gms.state.ga.us.

Cheryl D. Totton Georgia Department of Labor 148 Andrew Young International Blvd., N.E. Atlanta, Georgia 30303-1751

Rashaud Smith
PRSRT STD POSTAGE & FEES PAID
ATLANTA, GA PERMIT NO. 7077

Page 2 Vol. Four/Issue 3

AN INTERVIEW WITH GENERAL POYTHRESS

by Janice Reaves, Editor

"Over the last several years, certainly since 9-11, the Guard has changed from purely a reserve force to a part-time active duty force."
-Major General David Poythress Recently, I had the opportunity to interview a former Georgia Department of Labor commissioner. Currently, the adjutant general of Georgia, Major General David Poythress is responsible for the command of 12,000 men and women who make up Georgia's Army and Air National Guards and the Georgia State Defense Force. Traditionally, those serving in the National Guard as part-timers who give up one weekend a month to the military. But according to General Poythress, "The paradigm of one weekend a month and two weeks in the summer is an artifact in history that has been gone for over a decade." In fact he added, "Members of the Guard today will minimally serve 60 days active duty and attend additional training events in the course of a year. Many of them are mobilized for full-time tours of duty." For reserve units in the National Guard, a summons to war is a jolt from civilian to military life. It means leaving behind jobs and families for a foreign land and unknown consequences. But General Poythress says civilian soldiers' morale is good and highest among those who have gone and come back from a tour of duty. "Nobody is in the Guard for the

money. They are not in it for an easy

life. They sign up for everything that's

involved. And

that's living in

the

mud,

shooting and

getting shot at

and in a larger

sense defend-

ing the United

States

of

America and

our way of

Major General David Poythress

life." In essence those in the Guard

are there for patriotism and honor.

Once National Guard soldiers

return to civilian life, they return to

their jobs that are protected under

the Uniformed Services Employ-

ment and Reemployment Rights Act.

A vast number of reservists make up

Georgia's workforce and many are

employed by the Georgia

Department of Labor. In fact,

Poythress says, "You can hardly find

a better employee than a former

military employee. They are well-

trained, drug-free, dependable, are

used to getting up early and staying

late, mission-focused, know all the

workplace rules and are disciplined."

To General Poythress and all the

men and women serving in the U.S.

armed forces, thank you.

Articles may be e-mailed to janice.reaves@dol.state.ga.us or faxed to (404) 656-2683. Editor reserves the right to edit all articles of submission.

The Beacon is available in Braille and other alternate formats.

The BEACON Georgia Department of Labor
Thurmond Speaks at Fort McPherson
Military personnel from Fort McPherson and Fort Gillem celebrated Black History Month during a luncheon held at The Commons located on the grounds of Fort McPherson. Speaking to a large audience, Commissioner Thurmond talked about the contributions of black soldiers during the War of Jenkins' Ear; the Revolutionary War; the War of 1812 and the Civil War.
Fort McPherson was named Atlanta's seventh largest employer by the Atlanta Business Chronicle. Fort Gillem, located in Forest Park, is Clayton County's third largest employer, according to the March 1999 Clayton County Chamber of Commerce survey.
There are 3,510 active duty soldiers, 2,359 reservists, 5,038 civilians and 36,843 family members assigned to Forts McPherson and Gillem.
In June of 2003, Colonel Angela M. Manos made history by becoming the first woman to serve as base commander at Fort McPherson.
Commissioner Thurmond presented Garrison Commander, Col. Angela Manos (right) with a copy of his book Freedom. Also pictured is Command Sergeant Major Andrew Hall (left).

DVOP: Veterans' Outreach and Service
Story by Matia Storey Edwards

Developed by the U.S. Department of Labor, Veteran's Employment and

Training Service (USDOL VETS) division, the Disabled Veterans' Outreach

Program (DVOP) is a valuable employment resource to veterans. Established in

1977 via federal government funds, DVOP provides employment services to dis-

abled veterans and veterans with barriers to employment. Common barriers

include homelessness and educational disadvantages. Many participants of the

program are veterans of the Vietnam War. According to the U.S. Census, more

than 768,000 veterans reside in Georgia and approximately 28,000 are disabled.

The Georgia Department of Labor administers DVOP services through its

Veteran's Employment and Training Service office. DVOP representatives are on duty

at 24 career centers located throughout the state, transitions centers on military

bases, major Veteran Affairs centers and other outreach locations where veterans

gather. In the year ending June 2004, DVOP representatives served more than 66,000

vets, nearly 6,000 disabled vets, and 2,400 special disabled vets. DVOP representa-

tives are typically disabled or have served in the military.

Charlie Crawford, GDOL state veteran coordinator, works as a liaison

between the state's labor department and the USDOL VETS. He provides the

tools and resources DVOP representatives need to assist veterans. What's reward-

ing for Crawford is, "being a coach to veterans seeking employment and training

opportunities." To date, he estimates that some 65,000 to 72,000 veterans are

assisted with DVOP resources and services every year. Of those veterans, 68

percent find employment opportunities through the program.

Lawrence Taylor, DVOP repre-

sentative, is assigned to Fort

theBECACROEND I T S

McPherson military base under a pilot initiative to provide employment services to members of active military,

Janice Reaves, Editor John Ard, Staff Writer Carolyn Kowalski, Staff Writer Matia Storey Edwards, Staff Writer Keylan Mitchell, Staff Writer,
Photographer Nicole Mangham, Layout Designer,

reserve and guard units, and retired military service members and their spouses. He says that much of the program's success is its ability to assist veterans through nonconventional means. These extensive services include providing job search and refer-

Graphic Artist

ral assistance, career assessments and

evaluations, interview skills coaching,

Official Newsletter of the Georgia Department of Labor

resume assistance, job development

Marc Butterfield, DVOP representative, assists a local veteran at the Columbus Career Center. contacts, marketing veterans to potential employers, skills and proficiency assessments, resource center and reference library maintenance, assisting in veteran recruitment, and sponsoring career enhancement workshops, seminars and job fairs.
DVOP is in the developing stages of expanding family support services to dependent spouses and separating service members. These services assist them with finding careers with companies such as Home Depot and Walmart.
Taking a look at its progress over the years, DVOP has made other significant improvements as well. Says Taylor, "There are more DVOP [representatives]. DVOPs are better trained at providing services and documenting and tracking the progress of the veterans they service. And with the upgraded additions of the computers and the Internet, the sharing of information is readily accessible."
For more information on DVOP, please contact Charlie Crawford at 404.232.3530. (See page 4 for timeline of disabled veterans' benefits.)

The BEACON Georgia Department of Labor

Vol. Four/Issue 3 - Page 3

building a world-class workforce
Career Center News

Albany
Sandra Edwards, DOL services specialist, recently traveled to Malawi and Zimbabwe with a group from her church. While there, she conducted several workshops, including "Challenges of Women in the Workplace" and "The Importance of Education." On the first day, 75 women attended the workshops and each day the attendance of the workshops increased. "The Importance of Education" was facilitated to about 100 children and young adults between the ages of three and 24 years old. Edwards says "I am grateful to the GDOL for helping me empower other lives, not only in the United States but other nations of the world."

Congratulations to Thomas Wellman, DOL services specialist, for receiving the GDOL 10 Years of Service Award, and to Thelma Hudson, EMR, for 25 years of service.
Special thanks are extended to Don Hammer for representing the Department of Labor at this year's Muscular Dystrophy Association Lock-Up.
Camilla
GoodWorks! workshop attendees were treated to a chili lunch prepared by Angelia Bentley and Gloria Bundy. Bentley and Bundy prepared the food at home on a volunteer basis.

Habersham
Mary McCready, manager of the Habersham Career Center, was recently inducted into the National Technical Honor Society. At age 65, McCready is in her third year of studies at North Georgia Technical College in Clarkesville. She is majoring in applied business technology and currently holds a 3.84 grade point average. "I never dreamed I would be enrolled in college at age 65, and attending college has really boosted my confidence and advancement with GDOL," McCready says. She has received a tremendous amount of encouragement and support from the Georgia Department of Labor.

Brunswick
Brunswick welcomes new staff members, Alfreda Boney and Don Hammer, DOL services specialists and Mary Brown, secretary II.

(Standing) Angelia Bentley, DOL services specialist 3 and (Seated) Gloria Bundy, DOL services specialist, GoodWorks! program.
Columbus
Mikell Fryer, Columbus Career Center manager, presents the Service Award to Employer Committee chair, Jane Nichols, CEO, Goodwill Industries. Nichols was recognized for outstanding leadership with the Columbus Employer Committee from 2003-2004.

Macon
Congratulations to Gwen Roussel, recipient of the GDOL Statewide Customer Service Award.

(L-R) Alfreda Boney, Mary Brown and Don Hammer
Brunswick bids farewell to Betty Anderson, DOL services specialist 3. After 22 1/2 years of dedicated service, Anderson retired in January.
Congratulations to Tyson Davis, DOL services specialist III, (below) for receiving the GDOL 5 Years of Service Award. An additional congratulations is extended on completing a master's in public administration from Georgia Southern University.

The Columbus Career Center leadership team was the recipient of the Mayor's Award. The award was presented to the Columbus Career Center by Columbus Mayor, Bob Poydasheff at the 32nd annual Mayor's Banquet. The Mayor's Award honored the career center for its service to people with disabilities and to the employer community.

(L-R) Royce Hopkins, District 6 director, Jane Simpson, unit supervisor, Gwen Roussel, DOL services specialist, David Clinard, Macon Career Center manager.

David Clinard, (L) presented Bobby Cowart, DOL services specialist with a Faithful Service Award for five years of service at the Macon Career Center.

Pictured: Columbus Leadership Team (L-R) assistant manager, Marvin Heath; supervisor, Donald Harmon; supervisor, Dianne Jenkins; supervisor, Cindy Pobbig; career center manager, Mikell Fryer.

North Metro
Ronald Walton, DOL services specialist was honored for his work with Positive Growth, Inc. Positive Growth is a nonprofit organization that provides a safe and nurturing environment for disadvantaged and homeless young men.

Page 4 Vol. Four/Issue 3

The BEACON Georgia Department of Labor

On Standby: GDOL Prepares for Potential Base Closings

Georgia is home to 13 military installations that generate thousands of jobs and more than $20 billion in annual economic activity. But on May 13, the Pentagon dealt a potentially devastating blow to metro Atlanta and other Georgia communities by recommending that four bases be shut down.
The four bases targeted for closure are Fort McPherson in Atlanta; Fort Gillem in Forest Park; the Naval Air Station-Atlanta in Marietta and the Navy Supply Corps School in Athens. The base closings are Pentagon recommendations to be reviewed by a federal base closing commission. The commission's final recommendation will go to President Bush by Sept. 8, where he must endorse or reject the recommendations. The list then goes to Congress which must decide whether to accept or reject the list. But there is still time for Georgia's legislative delegation and officials to lobby against the closings.
At this point, it is uncertain which bases, if any, will be closed, but the Georgia Department of Labor's Rapid Response team is prepared to handle any scenario. Ann Shirra, employment and training program manager for the Georgia Department of Labor, says, "If layoffs occur, the Rapid Response Unit will be a partner to local career centers, WIA staff and Veterans Employment Training Services (VETS) staff to provide transition [assistance], jobsearch, retraining and other services needed." Shirra adds, "We already serve contract workers who have been laid off from bases in the several areas of the state. Our workforce system is designed to address the needs of veterans, spouses and children in whatever workforce and related services they need."
Overall, Georgia will gain new jobs under Pentagon recommendations. However, Metro Atlanta, stands to lose approximately 13,000 jobs and $568.7 million in annual payroll. Fort McPherson and Fort Gillem employ 6,133 military personnel and 4,952 civilians. The Naval Air Station in Marietta employs another 2,904 people, including 140 civilians. The Athens Navy Supply Corps School provides supply, transportation and maintenance to more than 4,000 sailors and marines each year. It employs 130 military personnel and 193 civilians.
Potential losses in metro Atlanta notwithstand-

Bases on BRAC List
Fort McPherson/ Fort Gillem
Naval Air Station
Athens Navy Supply Corps

Military Personnel
6,133
2,904 130

Civilian Personnel
4,952
140 193

ing, Georgia would actually gain 7,423 jobs in the overall base realignments. Columbus' Fort Benning would expand by 9,839 jobs.
The Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) is the first in 10 years. In 1988, the first four BRAC rounds began. Georgia has not lost a single facility, but some of its military bases have been on supplemental closure lists. Bases on the lists included Robins Air Force Base in 1993 and 1995, the Marine Corps Logistic Base in Albany in 1993, Fort Gillem in 1993, Fort McPherson in 1993 and the Naval Air Station in Marietta in 1994.
Although the military has been downsizing over the last 15 years, Georgia military bases have actually been growing rapidly since the last BRAC rounds. Fort Benning, home of the U.S. Army Infantry Center and the 3rd Brigade and the 3rd Infantry Division, has more than 33,000 active duty personnel, 6,700 civilians, 53,808 family members and 1,800 reservists. Meanwhile, Fort Stewart added 4,000 soldiers to a military base that already has more than 20,000 soldiers, 37,303 family members and more than 1,500 reservists.
Should closings occur and transition centers become necessary, GDOL's career centers and Rapid Response teams are ready to assist Georgians. Transition services are also in place through the VETS program to provide assistance to help those affected by the potential base closings.

DVOP Timeline
Story by P.J. Schneider
Providing benefits to disabled soldiers can be traced to the early stages of American History. In 1636, the Pilgrims ensured that soldiers who were injured in battle were supported by the colony for the rest of their lives.
In 1776 the Continental Congress enacted a law that provided half pay for life to severely disabled veterans.
In 1933 the first step towards providing employment services to veterans occurred under President Franklin D. Roosevelt when the WagnerPeyser Act established a public employment service.
The G.I. Bill of Rights of 1944 provided for the position of veterans representative in each local employment services office. Benefits provided by the bill included education and training, employment assistance and housing. Employment assistance benefits to veterans included special unemployment compensation, counseling and guidance, placement and special preference.
The Veterans' Preference Act of 1944 defined the Federal Civil Service regulations for hiring veterans and provided an additional 10 points to disabled veterans and five points to other veterans on the Civil Service examination.
The Veterans' Readjustment Act of 1952 extended the benefits of the G.I. Bill to include eligibility for veterans to draw unemployment insurance.
The Ex-serviceman's Compensation Act of 1958 established a permanent system of unemployment insurance and included peace time veterans for the first time.
Executive Order 11598 signed in 1971, was later reissued as 11701 and required federal contractors to list job vacancies with the local offices of Employment Services. It also provided special emphasis for disabled and Vietnam veterans in filling these jobs.
The Vietnam-Era Veterans Readjustment Act of 1972 extended priority for employment counseling, job training and placement services to Vietnam-era veterans. It also established specific duties for local veteran employment representatives.
Public Law 94-502 established the Disabled Veterans Outreach Program in 1977.

Veterans' Conference: Employing and Empowering
Story by Ken Cochran

This year, the Georgia Department of Labor (GDOL) Annual Veterans' Workforce Conference was held in Augusta, GA at the Radisson Riverfront Hotel, from

April12 14. With a theme "Transitions: From Deployment to Employment," the conference focused on employment efforts to assist veterans returning from service in

the Middle East. Special emphasis was also placed on newly disabled veterans moving from rehabilitation programs to new careers. The conference attracted some 268

attendees. Participation came from all areas of the workforce system including Disabled Veterans' Outreach Program specialists, local veterans employment representa-

tives, GDOL career center managers, district directors, Workforce Investment Act (WIA) area directors, Rehabilitation Services, US Department of Labor (USDOL),

Georgia Department of Veterans Services and Veterans Administration staff.

The program began on Tuesday with a luncheon and keynote address by Commissioner Michael Thurmond, thanking participants for assisting veterans. He also

emphasized the importance of assisting veterans with employment services. "If our soldiers can stand together as one on the battlefields of Iraq and Afghanistan, we need

to make sure they have jobs to support themselves and their families upon their return," he urged. Afternoon activities concluded with a presentation on the President's

National Hire Veterans Committee.

Wednesday presented a full day for attendees. In the morning, WIA staff attended a session presented by the National Veterans Training Institute on veterans' ser-

vices and veterans' priority in federal employment and training programs. Darlene Martin, assistant director of Project IDEAS, Continuing Education Department at

Kennesaw State University also presented Weathering Transitions. She urged attendees to understand the impact of change on returning service persons and to leverage

all the available resources in assisting them in their transition to the civilian workforce.

Gordon Burke, director of Operations and Programs, Veterans Employment and Training, USDOL, gave a

detailed overview of the REALifelines Project. Operating under a memorandum of agreement between the USDOL,

the US Department of Defense and Veterans Administration, REALifelines seeks to ensure that wounded and injured

service personnel receive career planning and guidance as a part of their physical rehabilitation program.

Burke was followed by Grant Swanson, vocational rehabilitation and employment officer of Veterans Administration,

who discussed the new five track employment model for disabled veterans. Dr. Craig Burnette, national coordinator for

Project CHALENG (Community Homeless Assessment, Local Education and Networking Groups) for Veterans, from the

Atlanta Veterans Administration Medical Center talked about the importance of serving homeless veterans.

Wednesday's afternoon sessions were dedicated to educating attendees on the latest in assistive technologies.

Vocational Rehabilitation gave demonstrations on new technology designed to overcome employment barriers for the

disabled. Dr. John Williams, regional director, GDOL Vocational Rehabilitation, closed the day with a message focused

on the importance of assistance to service personnel entitled "Veterans Transition to Work: The American Dream."

The evening ended with an awards banquet honoring veteran's specialists and state companies for out-

standing service to veterans. The conference concluded on Thursday morning with updates on departmental special Ken Cochran, acting manager, Coordination and

projects.

Support, addresses conference attendees.

The BEACON Georgia Department of Labor

Rehabilitation Services

Vol. Four/Issue 3 - Page 5

DRSHighlights

Help From the Home Front

Georgia companies have been actively participating in the American offensive to combat terrorism since the September 11 terrorist attack. For example, Portion Pac in Stone Mountain individually packages peanut butter made by Tara Foods in Albany. The popular standby snack provides fortified protein to the U.S. military in an easy-to-open pouch so the contents can be squeezed directly into the mouth. Other foods in the daily rations pack, however, may require utensils and that's where Georgia Industries for the Blind (GIB) comes in.
GIB, a not-for-profit organization that operates as a business, manages two manufacturing/packaging facilities in Griffin and Bainbridge. Product sales make GIB largely selfsupporting, and for the past few years it has averaged about $7 million in revenue. When FY2003 ends, though, GIB's bottom line will probably top $10 million.
That positive balance sheet is a direct consequence of events that began with the collapse of the World Trade Center towers. Simply put, a wartime economy is a plus for GIB. "We are happy for the work," stated GIB executive director Jim Hughes, "but we abhor the circumstances."
"It reminded me of Desert Storm a decade ago," said Griffin plant manager Al Hardy, "when we tripled J-spoon production and doubled plant revenues. There was so much work we ran three shifts, twenty-four seven."
The J-spoon, short for "just spoon," is a versatile piece of heavy-duty polypropylene flatware manufactured in Hazelhurst, MS, by the state blind

Once the J-spoons pass inspection, the conveyor dumps them directly into shipping cartons of 2,000 pieces each. agency there. GIB employees provide the individual plastic wrapper and contracts for that packaging with the Department of Defense (DOD) on an annual basis, with a minimum monthly order more or less guaranteed for a year. But the DOD can issue a new work order at any time to increase the quantity to whatever deemed necessary. . . and increases have been occurring regularly.
"Prior to September 11," remarked Hardy, "we were doing the minimum 2.7 million pieces each month. After that date it jumped to 7.8 million. For the past three months we have been

shipping 10 million J-spoons monthly, and we've already received orders for 15 million each for March and April."
Eighty percent of GIB's contracts come from the federal government. In a typical year, the General Services Administration (GSA) accounts for about three-quarters of those with DOD getting the remainder. During Operation Desert Storm, the ratio was very close to a 50/50 split; now it's 60/40 in favor of DOD.
"We're running all 23 J-spoon packaging machines, but only for one shift six days a week," said Hardy. "If the need arises, we're capable of doubling that," he added, "but not without additional shifts and more employees."
"We simply cannot predict with any accuracy future production peaks, the revenue increases which might result or the labor required to meet those demands, " observed Hughes. "We are in relatively uncharted waters here," he continued. "If we are indeed faced with a protracted military buildup situation, then GIB is very likely to continue to experience increased production demands for the next few months."
This article was originally printed in the Winter 2003 issue. J-spoon production doubled from the typical 36 million per year, to 72 million pieces for the twelve-month period from December 2003 through December 2004. GIB's balance sheet was also affected -- the FY03 bottom line reflected $10.98 million in revenues; FY04 topped $9.44 million. Production for the initial months of 2005 has returned to the more usual 3 million pieces per month.

VR and VA: Partnering to Assist Disabled Veterans

Injured and disabled military personnel often face less than optimum job possibilities. In such cases, the collaborative efforts between the Vocational Rehabilitation (VR)

program and the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), equate to a powerful double dose of expertise that ensures comprehensive and consistent provision of services.

For example, in Augusta the VA Medical Center has been a partner with VR for 30 years. And VR has staffed a dedicated counselor for VA clients since 1985 who

is responsible for arranging regular visits, establishing a working relationship with treatment directors for the wards, and providing case management and monitoring

expertise for all VA referrals.

Most current referrals represent two categories psychological and emotional disorders such as post-traumatic stress syndrome and substance abuse, and low vision

and blindness, for which there is also a specially trained VR counselor. But veterans returning from today's Middle East conflicts are younger, and the incidence of trau-

matic brain injury and amputation cases has increased. It may be reasonable to assume, then, that assistive technology may play a more important role in future VA/VR

cases.

The VA and VR share in the responsibility for achieving successful outcomes for each eligible client, with VA typically handling the funding side of the equation and

VR focusing on comprehensive case management. A case in point involves Robert, who lost his eyesight due to diabetic retinopathy and was referred to VR by Todd

Turansky, coordinator of Visual Impairment Services at the VA Medical Center in Augusta. A Vietnam vet, Robert spent 20 years in the workforce until his worsening

vision forced him to give up his job. Robert still wanted to work, however, so he, his VR counselor and Turansky, who also regularly trains VR staff about serving the blind

community, collaborated on a plan for him to do so.

The VA provided a computer equipped with JAWS (Job Access With Speech),

a voice output software that replaces all visual and navigation elements with sound.

VR provided a vocational evaluation, which indicated a high probability of college

success and helped Robert whittle his career choice to that of computer network specialist. A subsequent meeting with the disability coordinator at Augusta

Scholarship and Continuing

Technical College ensured that all accommodations, including a quarterly case review, were in place. The VA funds computer technology upgrades and software,

Education Grant Opportunity

which are then coordinated through VR Assistive Work Technology staff.

Another successful collaboration involves Dan, also a Vietnam vet who

received the VA educational benefit and pursued a BS in psychology. In Dan's case,

Each year, the Georgia Rehabilitation Association (GRA), a nonprofit profes-

however, the VA engaged a private provider (CorVel Corporation), which then

sional organization dedicated to education and advocacy about persons with dis-

contacted the Gainesville VR office because it felt that VR would provide the envi-

abilities, awards two grants. Applicants need not be GRA members.

ronment in which Dan could explore his career goal to become a VR counselor.

A $500 GRA Scholarship will be awarded to a Georgia resident with a dis-

Currently he is halfway through a six-month internship, focusing on the basic

ability, who is enrolled in or has been accepted into post secondary education as

responsibilities of the rehab job readiness specialist, the VR counselor, and the

of Fall 2005, and who has demonstrated academic excellence, advocacy for

rehab employment specialist, and participating in administrative paperwork,

persons with disabilities, community involvement and leadership.

intake applications and client interviews and employer meetings.

The Paula Dooley McIntosh Continuing Education Grant of $750 is awarded

Dan will soon begin the VA education eligibility requirements process for

to a Georgia resident employed in the field of vocational rehabilitation services

pursuing an MS in vocational rehabilitation counseling. He will also need to

who has demonstrated advocacy for Georgians with disabilities and agrees to use

support himself during the lengthy process, so the Gainesville staff will arm him

the grant to further his/her education in VR service delivery or administrative

with all necessary information regarding next steps, the services of the local

support to the field.

career center, agency connections, available scholarships and special programs. In

Awards will be presented at the GRA Training Conference to be held at

fact, the Gainesville VR team has already lined up another of its community part-

Callaway Gardens in September, 2005. Email kim.simmons@dol.state.ga.us for

ners, WorkReadi, Inc., to provide a cost-free comprehensive vocational evaluation

application information. Completed applications must be received no later than

to help further refine Dan's career path.

July 1, 2005.

Page 6 Vol. Four/Issue 3
Coffee Break
Jimmy Norton
Jimmy Norton knows about transitioning from the military to civilian life. He made the adjustment after retiring with 21 years of service in the U.S. Army. Now a Transition Assistance Program (TAP) manager for the Georgia Department of Labor, Norton assists eligible veterans at Ft. McPherson Army Base. Through TAP, he assists veterans exiting the armed forces and transitioning from the military into civilian life. Norton took some time from his busy schedule to talk to the Beacon about the program and its benefits. What is TAP? Established in 1990, TAP is a national program that assists military personnel and their families leaving the military to make the transition to civilian life. We provide training and resources on resume writing, negotiating skills, networking and how to dress for success. They come out of TAP job-ready. Give us a little history of TAP. How is the program funded? TAP was developed by the U.S. Department of Defense, U.S. Department of Labor (USDOL) and veteran service contractors. The program is funded by the USDOL and each participating state department of labor. What's most rewarding for you as TAP manager? Being able to give back to the organization (military) that I credit with making me the man I am today. Plus it's a great feeling when your clients come back and share their experiences with you. That makes me feel proud, and lets me know that the process works. What do you enjoy about your job? Having the opportunity to meet and share important information about benefits and job assistance information with people from all walks of life. Any words of advice to veterans transitioning into civilian life? The best advice that I can give any veteran is to allow enough time to make the transition. For most retirees, it's recommended to start about two years out and do the research on the market of interest. I recommend that non-retirees start about one year out, and the same goes for doing market research. What's next for TAP? We're always looking for different ways to assist our veterans. If there's a new way of teaching, a new way of training, then we want that because it will benefit our customers and give them a better opportunity to get a position. TAP representatives are available at nine locations throughout the state. For more information contact Jimmy Norton at 404.464.3360. - Matia Storey Edwards

The BEACON Georgia Department of Labor
World-class Customer Service

From: To: Date: Subject:

Jennifer Baden Royce Hopkins 1/21/05 8:13AM Barbara Barton Nesmith

I would like to take a moment to share a very inspirational accomplishment of one of our customers. I came on aboard at GDOL in August 2003. A few weeks into my position, I had the pleasure to meet Barbara Nesmith as an re-employment unit participant on 09/13/03. In the course of conversation prior to performing a job search with her, she informed me she had never graduated from high school or obtained a GED. I advised her of the hardships of not having a diploma or GED would be in obtaining employment. I further advised her of the financial aid opportunities available to return to school and of the convenient location of Central Georgia Technical College. She told me she would look into it but she was leery of returning to school after 32 years. She was very concerned that she would be the oldest student. She overcame her fears and reservations and soon returned to my office with a school schedule and a projected GED test date.

On the day after the test, Barbara called me and I anxiously asked her how it went. She told me she wasn't sure. She then explained that on the way to the exam she was involved in a car accident. She thought about not going and rescheduling the exam but felt she had come this far and was not turning back.

Well I had a wonderful moment last Friday when she came in and told me that she passed the GED and scored in the top 18 percent of her class. It was a joyous occasion and we both were so proud we could hardly contain ourselves. We did not have cake and balloons on hand but there was definitely a celebratory atmosphere in the office. Barbara returned this week to bring me a copy of her GED certificate and once again the office celebrated.

Barbara reiterated what this experience means to her and that because of it even her mother was considering going back to school to obtain her GED. She stated the staff here had not only been courteous but encouraging and that was a big part of having the confidence to return to the classroom. She is very excited about her accomplishment but is not stopping there. She is already enrolled in courses to pursue a license as a certified nursing assistant.

Jennifer S. Baden Re-employment Unit Macon Career Center

BarbaanrdaJBenarntiofenr NBaedsmenith

Cecelia Smaha Georgia Department of Labor 3090 Mercer University Drive P.O. Box 4428 Macon, GA 31208

Ms. Cecelia Smaha I am writing this letter in appreciation of your hard work, dedication, and follow up on any issue I brought to your attention. Although my family and I went through a rough time after we found that my job was eliminated at Brown and Williamson, you made things easier, smoother for us in understanding and completing the required paper work. The Georgia Department of Labor should be proud to have people like you that assist people in their darkest hour and give them optimism in the future. I am confident that you will assist others as you assisted me and my family. We are doing very well. I enjoy the new job and new area. Again many thanks for your assistance in helping us through this transition period in our lives.

Sincerely, Joseph Wanna

Cecelia Smaha

GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF LABOR
MICHAEL L. THURMOND COMMISSIONER
David Bright DOL Asset Manager
Just wanted you to know what a super employee you have in Crucita Dansby. I was in panic last week trying to meet a deadline in gathering information for a taskforce I was attending for the Commissioner. Crucita overheard my panicked request for some documents and told me she would take care of everything.
The next day I not only had the documents, but they were placed in a binder, in plastic cover sheets and separated by beautifully typed tabs!!! There was even a cover with the title of the project and a beautiful picture.
Other participants in the meeting commented on the book. It really impressed them. All due to Crucita!
Please let her know how much I appreciate this "customer service." You can be sure that I have passed it on to my boss.
Janet Hill Special Service Coordinator Georgia Department of Labor Suite 600 148 Andrew Young International Blvd. Atlanta, GA 30303
Crucita Dansby

James A. Wilhelm
Roswell, GA 30075
Michael L. Thurmond, Commissioner Georgia Department of Labor 148 Andrew Young International Blvd., NE Sussex Building - Suite 600 Atlanta, GA 30303-1751
Dear Commissioner Thurmond,
It is with extreme pleasure that I am writing this letter of thanks and praise for your exceptional staff at the District 3 Tax Cobb office.
Over the years I've had many dealings with State and Federal agencies and have never encountered a group of people as professional, courteous and knowledgeable as this office. Time after time they have managed to handle all levels of difficulties with a smile and efficient accuracy.
Additionally, a very special thanks to Debbie Greene who always has time to help, Mary Alice Mosley and Sabrena Mills who sets the standards. Again I would like to thank the District 3 Tax Cobb office team for the job they do.
With sincere regards and appreciation,

Jim Wilhelm

Debbie

GarenednSea,bMreanrya

Alice Mills

Mosley

Dear Susan Hutcheson-Koose,
I want to thank you for all of your help over the past few months. My husband has experienced some major health challenges over the past few years. You were such a help in gathering all of his medical records and pertinent information that was necessary for his case.
You obviously take pride and care in your work and it shows in all that you do; your actions and attitude. I could see your smile through the phone. Everything was handled in a timely manner. Thank you for taking such good care of my husband. We appreciate all that you have done. I know you bless numerous people daily and I'm sure your position doesn't reward you with too many "Thank Yous" or not nearly the number you deserve. Your thoughtfulness, care and concern did not go unnoticed and we just wanted to extend our sincere gratitude for your help.
Sincerely, DAS Claimant

Susan Hutcheson-Koose

Editor's Note: The Star Award is presented each quarter to a GDOL staff member who goes above and beyond the call of duty.

The BEACON Georgia Department of Labor
Workforce Investment Act

Vol. Four/Issue 3 Page 7

CareerConnections

Mother/Daughter Team Do Good Works
Story by Matia Storey Edwards and Contributed by John Davidson

Initiated by Commissioner Thurmond, GoodWorks! does simply what its name spells out: good works! This GDOL initiative is a statewide service strategy that helps TANF applicants, recipients and noncustodial parents become employed and move to self-sufficiency. Since it began, many Georgians have benefited from this program.
Brenda and Crystal Edmonds, a GoodWorks! mother/daughter duo, have been with the program for several months. Initially, Brenda started GoodWorks! working as a cook for the Youth Detention Center in Pelham, GA. She now works for Equity Group Division Center in the Food Processing Department. When asked what GoodWorks! has done for her, she replies, "It made me more independent. It made me realize that I had to get out and just go to work. [GoodWorks!] has given me the determination, and the motivation to keep going."
Crystal, one of Brenda's four children, is a GoodWorks! Kid. GoodWorks! Kids supports children of GoodWorks! parents by providing workforce development activities and opportunities. This GDOL service encourages students to stay in school, assists with year-round employment, and fosters strong work ethics for high school or GED completion. GoodWorks! Kids targets youth between ages 14 and 21 who have risk factors or barriers that make it difficult for them to make a successful transition into the workforce.
With the assistance of GoodWorks! Kids, Crystal continues to overcome these barriers.
She initially worked as an intern at the Camilla Career Center last summer, performing administrative and clerical tasks for the center. After completing her internship, Crystal has been working part-time at McDonald's. She is currently a full-time student at Southwest Georgia Technical College. At SWGT, Crystal is pursuing an associate's degree in medical assistance and transcription. She is expected to complete the requirement for graduation in September 2006.

Crystal says, "GoodWorks! Kids made me stronger and helped me to go school. And I want to set a good example for my brothers and sisters and the other kids around here." Brenda and Crystal Edmonds with GoodWorks! advisor, Debbie Peavy.

Exposing Atlanta's Youth to Healthcare Careers
Story by Pat Koch
After receiving a grant from the Georgia Department of Labor, the Atlanta Workforce Development Agency (AWDA) began a healthcare initiative in getting Atlanta's youth exposed to the expanding field. By combining these funds with the Hope Grant, youth WIA funds, in-kind contributions from grant partners and private donations, the agency offered Atlanta high school students the opportunity to attend Atlanta Technical College's Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Program. Students invited to apply were enrolled in Atlanta public schools.
Last summer, students attended a comprehensive nine-week program at Atlanta Technical College. The program provides classroom training, field visits to healthcare facilities, training supplies, uniforms and textbooks.
Each graduating student received eight credit hours that were applied to his/her post secondary education. Each student also registered with the Georgia National Registry for Certified Nursing Assistants through the Georgia Medical Care Foundation.
Since last summer, AWDA's health initiative has grown into much more than a program for CNA students. Expanding its outreach, this summer AWDA began offering training to students to become patient care technicians and pharmacy technicians. The patient care technician program was incorporated in the health initiative to teach CNAs principles, practices and skills common to many specialized health care professions. Students also learn therapy techniques, radiology, radiology safety and electrocardiograms.
The pharmacy technician program prepares students for employment in pharmacies. Students who complete the program will be eligible for the National Certification for Pharmacy Technicians. Some partners include Atlanta Public Schools, Atlanta Technical College, CVS Pharmacy, Atlanta Job Corps and Children's Healthcare of Atlanta. Mayor Shirley Franklin and the AWDA honored CNA students with a graduation
CNA students pose following graduation ceremony. ceremony last August.

A Project to Exceed
Story by Kate Brady and Nicole Carsten

Few people have the opportunity to take what they love doing and make it

an employment reality. Fortunately, Shannon Barnes was able to take her passion

for biology and life sciences and transform both into a career. Shannon works at

the Cat Care Hospital in Marietta in a customized wage position. At the hospi-

tal, Barnes assists veterinarians in animal surgeries, testing samples and blood

work. She found her job through a customized approach to employment.

Funded by the Georgia Department of Labor, Division of Rehabilitation

Services, Barnes worked closely with a Cobb County Community Services Board

job coach. They visited CobbWorks!, Inc. to access the resource area for rsum

development and to research possible training opportunities. Barnes found an

online veterinary assistant course, and after enrolling, Rehabilitation Services

funds paid for her tuition. Tutoring was paid by an individual training account

through Project Exceed, a special grant program from the USDOL Office of

Disability Employment Policy (ODEP).

After becoming certified as a veterinary assistant, Barnes and her job coach

began discussions with veterinary clinics in the community. Fortunately, Barnes'

love for cats and superior skills made for an appealing opportunity for the Cat

Care Hospital.

Barnes' success and many other exciting employment outcomes have been

supported by an innovative collaboration that began in July 2001. CobbWorks!

joined forces with the Cobb/Douglas Community Services Board, Cobb Micro-

Enterprise Center, and the Tommy Nobis Center to conceptualize and submit a

grant proposal for customized employment to the ODEP. Thus, Project Exceed

was born. This federal

demonstration initiative is in

its fourth year of five and has

served over 200 people with

disabilities in customized

employment.

Thanks to Project

Exceed, CobbWorks! and

other supporting entities,

people with disabilities who

aspire to do what they love,

can actually have the oppor-

tunity.

For additional informa-

tion, contact: CobbWorks!

Workforce Development Shannon Barnes, veterinary assistant, examines

Center at 770.528.8021.

samples in a microscope.

Page 8 Vol. Four/Issue 3
SPOTLIGHT ON... Inspector Red
At 81 years of age, Cecil "Red" Rogers is the oldest of GDOL's inspecAtorHs aawnkdinosnvielleo, f GthAe ntawtioveo, ldCeesctilacRtievde Rboogaerrd-bceegratnifiheids tirnascpkercetcoorrsdinasthaen winsopreldc-. twiowoAcytsohaelptdaoreiHraecsrerrwakNaesaslRailwhitnyrxaoaoegbktvghgrnyaopyioaen-fsihedo.frlaseooesrvnoraupinednlwrllaneoleUywvtap,tyeaso.heGeolSrrneeas.r1aAsehdrkte7sioNejpntodrhdsawabaa.etvg.ayaihvynosUseS,ed..eanRS,invo.UdhbeshgNieonenpeesltiaebrileekveceehelyertgn,anoeoastRnrymenporegreegoiha6enaerrsid4lessr--t ator and diesel engine operator on Rneavtiarilngshfirposm. AthnedNeavveynaftherou2g1hyeWarosrlodf sWeravricIeI wina1s9a61d,iRsmogaeyrinthgoeuvgehnt tw, ohreklwovaes da thhisingjoobf tahneywpaasyt.. HWeroandgm. its there were "ssfwmaeioIsthaamnwadreeerfneehuotdheullinhnsanotnedgNim,dm"taiaehnhevnwegeysdshhss.eahoarhyHuinepsissd.esteo.dfdergreeoloIlsocpleciawkpvrleielebsrdeNtyodstmarabvolyoa.eyomnpIddmecsoinanoienngtf'ngsstf Soon isnh1o9r6e3f,oRromgeirlitpaursyhepdrorceetidreumreesn.t aside and r"eTtuhrenedJatpoawnoerske aswaenrienspdercotoprp, binugt tbhoismtibmse afnord CsohmomoteinrcgialtoUrnpioendoInessu.raBncuet Cwoe. gHoet woourtkeodf tiht.erWe feoru2s3edyetaors dboefdogre htoerrpeetidreodesfo,"r thhee ssaeycosncdaltmimlye.in"W19e86m. aBduet eavelanntdhienng, Ranodgerwjuestwcoeureldntot lsdit sthtilal.t the IDegJofnaoovfepfreo1pardt9oanhD8ruseet8piremsn,lseasbceehpceelneei.vwatteecb"ootsheTou.fsg"holaLadewnmnabdopweloaruwrbkots.orraehkrynIiidnhnudgeagshendaepjt(to'aisNtmyrtothbameeewlvsoeeyGhonndaetkmuttohrioreseiIgn'unrmigeaat) dthoeingw,"ahre, sRayosg.ers has no regrets. "I enjoyed my navy career. I got an eduCcaotvioenrintghaer1e0.-cIowunatsy arebao(ilMerusactotgeenedaanndt sfiurrsrtoaunnddintghecnouInlteieasr)n, eGdDrOefLrigceerrattaioinnly, kaierepcsoRnodgiteironbiunsgy,. Hsteeacmomphleeatetisngro, ueghtcly.
When I retired, I was engineman chief of my division."
After 21 years of service in the Navy and retiring in 1961, Rogers thought work was a thing of the past. Wrong.
"I need somewhere to go everyday. I can't sit around the house. I like to be doing something," he says.
So in 1963, Rogers pushed retirement aside and returned to work as an inspector, but this time for Commercial Union Insurance Co. He worked there for 23 years before he retired for the second time in 1986. But even then, Rogers just couldn't sit still.
In 1988, he began working in GDOL's Safety Engineering division and he's been there ever since.
"The labor department is a good place to work. I enjoy what I'm doing," he says.
Covering a 10-county area (Muscogee and surrounding area), the GDOL certainly keeps Rogers busy. He completes roughly 1,200 inspections a year. In his position, he inspects GDOL elevators, ensures that elevator telephones are working properly, and that the elevators do not present any fire hazards. His job also requires him to inspect carnival and amusement park rides.
Not slowing down any time soon, retiring again is the last thought on his mind.
"I tell everybody that if I couldn't find something to do, I'd be a greeter at Walmart," he says jokingly
- Matia Storey Edwards

The BEACON Georgia Department of Labor

TOPPSTEP Supports Incarcerated Veterans
Story by Keylan Mitchell

The Offender Parolee

Georgia is ahead of many other

Probationer State Training Program,

states because of the strong part-

TOPPSTEP, is leading the way in

nership already established with

assisting the state's incarcerated vet-

the Georgia Department of

erans' transition from offender to

Corrections through our TOPP-

productive citizen. TOPPSTEP

STEP program," Henderson says.

administers the Incarcerated

The IVTP is administered

Veterans Transition Program (IVTP)

through a three-step process in

to offenders throughout the state.

Georgia. The Georgia Department

The IVTP is a series of workshops

of Corrections identifies incarcer-

for soon-to-be-released incarcer-

ated veterans within the prison

ated veterans. The workshops Tincie Lynch, TOPPSTEP regional coordinator, dis- system and facilitates access to the

teach vital job readiness tools and cusses career options with an inmate.

offender prior to release. GDOL

job-seeking skills.

then assists the offender in devel-

Veterans are a unique group of

oping a career plan, job search

offenders within the national and state prison systems. The skills and obtaining employment. Finally the GDOL refers the

incarcerated veteran population tends to be older and more veteran to any benefits he or she may be entitled to through

educated than non-veteran inmates. A much higher per- the Department of Veteran Affairs.

centage of incarcerated veterans are employed full-time

Henderson views the referral to services offered by the

prior to arrest. Veterans account for 12 percent of the Department of Veteran Affairs as a vital portion of the

national inmate population and 10 percent in Georgia. program. He says, "If we have an offender who wants to

Statistics from the U.S. Bureau of Justice explain that crimes work, we can find them the opportunity to work. That is

committed by veterans are more likely to be violent crimes what we (TOPPSTEP) do better than anyone in the nation."

and less likely to be drug-related offenses. Incarcerated vet-

Ken Cochran, Employment and Training manager, sum-

erans are also more likely to be married with families and marizes the need for IVTP. "Nearly a third of veterans

suffer from a mental illness.

become incarcerated at some point after their service. Many

GDOL TOPPSTEP staff began facilitating the program of these individuals are then released from the system with

in January 2005 after nearly a year of planning with program nowhere to go and become a part of our homeless popula-

partners. GDOL TOPPSTEP director J.R. Henderson is tion. We owe veterans all the assistance we can give because

proud of the progress thus far. "Since January we have facil- they served their country."

itated the IVTP in 20 of 37 state prisons. The effort in

GDOL
CROSSWORD
You're in the Military Now
ACROSS 1. 1300 hours 4. United States Marine Corp. 5. The science of planning and carrying out movement
of forces 6. Higher headquarters 8. Private first class 9. Meals ready to eat 10. Full-time duty in the active military 13. An operation conducted openly 15. May Day 18. A locality from which operations are projected 22. Jim Nabors 23. Frank Sutton 25. Prisoner of War 26. Trinitrotoluene 27. A submerged or emerged embankment of sand 28. The condition or state of operability
DOWN 2. A means of concealment of personnel or material 3. Joint Chief of Staff 4. United States Air Force 6. A restricted body of water 7. RECON 11. Secretary of Defense 12. Military dining facility 14. Military deception, a trick of war

16. Commander in Chief of a fleet or navy 17. Judge Advocate General 19. 43rd President 20. Ranking above Lt. Colonel 21. The unloading of troops, equipment or supplies 24. Rank below a Major and above 1st Lt.

LIBRARY SELECTION OF THE MONTH

In this issue of the Beacon, the Office of Staff Development is featuring Married to the Military by Meredith Leyva. A military spouse, the author details everything women need to know about the military experience; from relocation to deployment, protocol to finances, career to kids and much more. Learn how to advance your career despite frequent relocating. Sustain a strong relationship during deployments and learn how to maximize entitled pay

and benefits and how to translate odd military acronyms and jargon.
This savvy guide will also help you take control of your service member's career-from filing marriage papers and choosing childcare to figuring out your pension when you're ready to retire.
Spouses of members of the armed forces and those simply interested in reading this book, call the Office of Staff Development at 404.232.3835 to check it out.