Archives

From the desk of Sam Johnson, Volume III, Issue IV

Like many of you, we are working to prepare the budget for 2010. There is much anticipation as we look for innovative ways of creating more cost-effective partnerships and programs. It is also a time that allows for reflection on our efforts over the past year. I’m reminded of how truly blessed I am. I’m thankful and encouraged by the strong partnerships that have been developed. While there is still much work to do, progress has been made in establishing a stronger and more effective damage prevention program. We must never forget that in order to be successful, our efforts must be in the spirit of cooperation in regards to our common goal. A special thanks to those of you who continue to work tirelessly for the safety and protection of our families.

Our membership continues to grow, and we look forward to the opportunity to get to know all of you better. We have certainly learned much from the new members, and appreciate your candid input. Our promise to you is that we will continue to listen to you and work to ensure the transition to membership is a good experience. Be sure to ask our staff about all the benefits of membership and we hope you will take full advantage of them.

We all owe a debt of gratitude to the MDPC’s legislative committee. The committee has worked hard in an effort to develop a consensus document promoting an effective enforcement amendment to our current law. If you’ve ever worked to achieve consensus, you are aware of the difficulties arising as the result of differences of opinion and perspective. Progress has been made and work will continue because the stakes are high. I hope that when you are notified of a regional or DPCC meeting in your area, you’ll take advantage of the invitation to share your thoughts with us. The best way to make the damage prevention law work for you is to get involved with the process. The MDPC is not just about legislation, it’s a group of stakeholders working together to establish reasonable and measurable steps for promoting damage prevention in Mississippi.

The Mississippi 811 publication remains an important tool in our communication effort and thanks to the growing number of supporters of this effort. We are also appreciative of the many comments we’ve received in response to the magazine. Our board remains convinced that the magazine will help build the partnerships necessary to create a heightened awareness for a more effective damage prevention program in the state. I believe that it will also help build trust. Rest assured that your input is vitally important to creating this lasting relationship.

I hope to see you in Tunica in just a few days. Our second annual Damage Prevention Summit is scheduled for November 9 – 11. The first Summit was a huge success and we are convinced this one will even be better.

I remain thankful for the privilege of serving all of you. I am confident that 2010 will bring challenges to all of us that can and will bring us closer together in purpose and relationship. Let me know what I can do to assist you in being more successful.

You will like the way I listen.