Happy New Year! I hope all of you had a safe and joyous Holiday Season! Once again, we are in amidst of change. We now have a new President, new Cabinet, and new Congress and, in Michigan, a new court; all ready to get to work and make our country and state better.

Speaking of work….we all know what has happened in our area. Jobs are leaving…more people are unemployed, insurance costs are rising…I can go on and on. It seems now, more than ever, our jobs as vocational case managers, vocational consultants and expert witnesses are needed. It’s important to keep in mind who we are serving and providing the best services as possible. I encourage you to review your certification’s code of ethics each year and if you have any ethical questions, talk to a colleague or contact your certification’s office. Another option is joining one of the IARP listservs (Forensic, Disability Management, Social Security, etc). You can contact IARP headquarters to become a member of the listserv.

I’d like to extend a warm thank you and good luck to Glennda Stephens and Stephanie Lorey. Glennda was our past president and had to resign from the board due to increasing job duties at her work place. Karen Starr has graciously stepped into Glennda’s position until my term is up as President. Stephanie has accepted another position and is unable to fulfill her duties as Treasurer. Joanne Pfeffer, in addition to being President Elect, has stepped in temporarily until a new treasurer has been elected. A call for nominations for a Member at Large and Treasurer will be coming in the next few weeks.

Finally, I am excited to inform you that we are again partnering with MRA, MRCEA, Peckham and JPD in bringing in Richard Pimmentel on May 1st at the Sheraton in Lansing. Mr. Pimmentel is a nationally known motivational speaker and recently had a movie made about his life titled, “The Music Within.” Mr. Pimmentel is the “Godfather” of the Americans with Disabilities Act and has been a staunch supporter of people with disabilities for over 40 years. We anticipate pre approval for 6.5 CEU credits for CRC, CDMS, CCM and specified nursing organizations. Don’t miss this incredible entertaining and informative speaker.

Sincerely,

Laura Frailey MRC, CRC
President, MiARP