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SOUTHERN CONNECTIONS NEWSLETTER
Happy New Year 2025
January 2025 Edition
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Connecting Resources
Within Your Community!
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Special Thank You to our outstanding Partners, Pine Belt Mental Health and Coast Transit Authority for hosting the past two
Southern Connect meetings.
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Southern Connect is a diverse group of transportation advocates that meet bi-monthly to focus on transportation solutions for the people we serve in South Mississippi.
Through MDOT, Public Transit Division's leadership and Regional Mobility Management
partners are connected with Regional and State Partners united in the efforts to provide
Transportation Solutions across the State of Mississippi.
The Southern Connect service area covers the 15 lower counties in South Mississippi which includes Jones, Wayne, Covington, Lamar, Forrest, Perry, Greene, George, Marion, Stone, Jackson, Jefferson Davis, Harrison, Hancock and Pearl River.
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Family Health Center Honors
Dr. Rashad Ali
Dr. Rashad N. Ali is the example of excellence in the field of obstetrics and gynecology in Laurel, Mississippi. His recent recognition at the new Family Health Care facility's open house. The facility was named in his honor as a testament to his unwavering commitment for over 30 years.
As the chief executive officer of the Family Health Center, Dr. Ali has not only delivered over 7,000 babies but has also profoundly impacted the lives of countless families in the Pine Belt region. His dedication to community healthcare exemplifies the spirit of service and leadership, inspiring both his colleagues and the entire community.
See the WDAM Media Link below for the full story:
New Laurel family health building named in honor of long-time doctor
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COMMUNITY ACTION
OF SOUTH MISSISSIPPI
Cruising the Coast Block Party! Community Action of South MS held their annual Cruising the Coast Block Party on October 7. There were 500 meals served to the seniors, the children, our partners and the community as a whole.
See the WLOX media coverage link below.
Cruisin' the Coast Block Party in Moss Point provides nostalgia for seniors
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CONGRATULATIONS RODERICK BAILEY!
HONORED WITH THE MPTA
CHARLES CARR AWARD
In a heartfelt celebration of excellence and dedication, partners from all corners of Mississippi come together to honor Mr. Roderick Bailey, Deputy Director, Public Transit Division of MDOT.
The prestigious Charles Carr Award stands as a testament to his unwavering commitment to public service and his significant contributions to the field of transportation.
This recognition was held during the Mississippi Public Transit Association's 48th Annual Conference in the historic city of Natchez. The award highlights Mr. Bailey's leadership and vision but also inspires all of us to strive for excellence in our own endeavors. His achievements remind us that through collaboration and dedication, we can create a lasting impact on our communities and pave the way for a brighter future in public transit across the state of Mississippi.
See Link for MPTA Website:
Mississippi Public Transit Association - Transportation Service
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CONGRATULATIONS DR. VERNON GRAVES
The Mississippi Public Transit Association honored Dr. Graves with the FRIEND OF TRANSIT AWARD at the 48th Annual Conference held in Natchez, Ms.
Dr. Graves will be recognized at the upcoming
DJ Transit, Inc. Town Hall Meeting on January 7, 2025
at the Laurel Train Depot. Guests are welcomed, please RSVP to d.bailey@djtransitinc.com
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HARRISON COUNTY SENIOR RESOURCES AGENCY WELCOMES NEW EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Mr. Jeff Clark
The Harrison County Senior Resources Agency is passionately committed to elevating the quality of life for seniors in our community, overseeing 7 thoughtfully designed senior centers that serve the coastal area of Mississippi. Each center is equipped with amenities that empower our cherished seniors, including access to reliable fact-checking resources that keep them informed and engaged. Additionally, we offer personalized public benefits counseling, guiding each individual through the maze of available resources with care and expertise. The comprehensive assistance extends to a variety of services, meals, programs and transportation services tailored to meet the distinct needs of our seniors.
By nurturing a vibrant sense of community and providing these essential resources, the agency not only enriches the lives of seniors but also inspires them to engage, connect, and truly thrive during their golden years.
See the WLXO media link featuring the Harrison County "Seniors Got Talent" that was held on November 26, 2024. Mark your calendars for next year!
WLOX Media Link:
Happening November 26: "Seniors Got Talent" showcase in Harrison County
For more information on Harrison County Senior Resources Agency Call: 228 241 2000
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Coast Transit Authority hosted the December Southern Connect Regional Transportation Group meeting.
Mr. Kevin Coggin, Executive Director recognized special guest Councilman Paul Tisdale, City of Biloxi as the Southern Connect Community Champion for his continued dedication to the essential transit services of South Mississippi.
You may see the WXLOX Media coverage link below:
Coast Transit Authority honors Biloxi councilman
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Southern Connect Welcomes Guest Speakers from
Boston Massachusetts!
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On December 10, 2024, Deshella Butler, Southern Connect Chairperson and regional partners, proudly welcomed the Mississippi Department of Transportation's Public Transit Division and various transportation agencies from across the state to celebrate the holiday season with a remarkable workshop.
This gathering featured the esteemed National Rural Transit Assistance Program Specialists, Cara Marcus from Boston, Massachusetts and Erik Dickey, Technical Support Associate that joined virtually to lead a dynamic Social Media & Website Building Workshop at the stunning Gulfport Transit Center.
Much appreciation to Mr. Jermey Bell, Vice Chairman, NRTAP Review Board Committe & MS Transit Director, Band of Choctaw Indians for his support in this event.
Attendees were truly inspired by the impressive expertise of the speakers and expressed their deep appreciation to Coast Transit Authority for hosting such a wonderful event, reinforcing the spirit of collaboration and innovation within the transportation community.
Southern Connect welcomes new partners! Contact Mobility Manager, Donna Bailey PH: 601-682-0701 to learn more!
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PARTERSHIPS UNITED IN SERVICE
Laurel Housing Authority’s Resident Opportunity and Self Sufficiency (ROSS) Program held the quarterly ROSS Program Coordinating Committee (PCC) Meeting on Wednesday, October 23, 2024 at the beautiful Laurel -Jones County Visitor Center located at 601 Leontyne Price Blvd in Laurel, Mississippi.
Home (laurelha.net)
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DJ TRANSIT, INC's QCARD CAMPAIGN IN JONES COUNTY
IS ON THE MOVE!
Prepaid QCards
are available at DJ Transit, Inc, Laurel, MS, along with other agencies throughout the State of Mississippi!
Contact Donna Bailey, Regional Mobility Manager if you need more information!
(601) 682 0701
Home 2023 - QRyde Transportation Software
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THE SOUTHERN CONNECT WEBSITE WILL BE GOING LIVE IN 2025!
Great appreciation to Erik Dickey for his outstanding work on the Southern Connect Website! Planning underway to "Go Live" soon! All partners welcomed to participate in this wonderful resourceful website designed to CONNECT. Please watch for upcoming emails to view and revise your agency link and information!
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HAVE A HAPPY & HEALTHY NEW YEAR! | | | | |
