JUNE 2022
Table of Contents 3-4
Dana Maxwell
5-6
Katrina Hodges
7-8
Kay Brown
9-10
Valerie McRill
10-13
Angela Reed
Publisher Chris Pruitt General Manager Debbie Wright Editor Jeff Dorris Advertising Rebecca Raspberry
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Dana Maxwell Executive Vice President of Clinical Operations at FCC Behavioral Health Jeff Dorris jdorris@dddnews.com
“It feels great to help people,” said Dana Maxwell, Executive Vice President at FCC Behavioral Health. “That’s why I pursued my MSW. I needed to be in this field.” Maxwell recently reflected on her career with the local nonprofit and the origins of her love for helping others. “I struggled for the longest time trying to figure out what I wanted to do,” said Maxwell. “I thought I’d be a teacher and so I did two years of college working towards that, and then realized that’s not really what I wanted to do.” Maxwell continued, “I wound up getting a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice and then working at Missouri’s Children Division. I was in my twenties, so I was young and green, and had no clue what I was getting into.” “It was during that time that I realized the field of social work was my purpose in life,” she added. “I grew up in a home where I was very blessed, supported, and loved, and so it was really an eye-opener for me.” Maxwell shared, “I lived in my community my whole life, and had no idea so many were hurting, and in need of help.” Maxwell decided to pursue her Master of Social Work at the University of Missouri-Columbia. After graduating with a MSW, Maxwell accepted a posi-
tion at FCC Behavioral Health in their Poplar Bluff Thrive program as a Care Coordinator Supervisor. “I worked directly with Care Coordinators and with clients during the assessment process,” said Maxwell. Following two years in that program, Maxwell moved into their Behavioral Health Clinics (BHC) program. “I worked in the BHC for seven years in different roles, such as the Clinical Manager, Director, and eventually Clinical Officer,” informed Maxwell. In 2021, Maxwell accepted the Chief Clinical Officer position which gave her the opportunity to work closely with both Behavioral Health and Substance Use Disorder Clinical Officers. That position led her to her current role as Executive Vice President of Clinical Operations. See MAXWELL page 4
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Maxwell
and two dogs.” Maxwell provided she would encourage young women to enter the workforce. “My parents are the hardest workers I know, and that was instilled in me at a very young age,” Maxwell stated, “To young women I say, know what your personal values are and what is important to you. Look for a company that shares similar values with you and not only speaks those values but puts those values into practice.” “You can determine a lot about a company’s true values by observing their business practices and by watching the way their leaders lead,” added Maxwell. “When you work for a company whose values directly conflict with your values, your work life, and unfortunately your personal life can be affected negatively.” “I decided a long time ago I will only serve in an organization whose values align with my values,” said Maxwell. “My inner peace is too important to allow anything else.” Maxwell stated she takes care of her own well-being in a variety of ways. “I love walking,” she said. “It’s my therapy, walking and listening to music. Also, I love crime podcasts.” Aside from a love of reading self-help books, Maxwell informed her most important way of taking care of herself is connecting with God. “I have my daily devotional time while I drink my coffee every morning,” said Maxwell. I use the free YouVersion. There are daily devotionals and plans for just about anything a person might be going through.” “It really helps me start the day off in the right mindset,” she added. Maxwell concluded that she had made the right career decision in pursuing social work and choosing FCC Behavioral Health as the company to fulfill that role with. “I couldn’t imagine not working and helping people,” she said. “This organization has given me so many opportunities to learn and grow, which I will be forever grateful for.”
From Page Three “I love working at FCC and I love the values of this organization,” Maxwell stated. “We have leaders who not only speak our values but practice our values.” Maxwell continued, “We have leaders who serve and genuinely want what is best for our staff and clients.” “I like being a part of that kind of team,” she said. Maxwell shared there are challenges with her job. “Balancing the workload can be challenging,” Maxwell stated. “We have expanded quickly and continue to grow, which is exciting and exhausting at times.” Another challenge is juggling family responsibilities and her career. Maxwell is married to husband, Ben, and they will soon celebrate twenty years together. They have three daughters, Kylyn, 18, Brynna, 15, and Cambry, 11. “I have to give credit to my mom and father-in-law,” said Maxwell. “They help me with taking kids to appointments, picking them up from school, and so forth.” “My father-in-law even helps with taking my dogs to the groomer and vet,” she added. “I am very blessed because it definitely takes a village to raise three busy girls
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Katrina Hodges Executive Director Dunklin County Transit Trina Bell tbell@dddnews.com
“We receive our funding through grants with the Missouri Department of Transportation and we contract our work out with other agencies to bring in revenue, which allows us to effectively provide the best services for our clients,” Hodges explained. The Dunklin County Transit primarily focuses on the Dunklin County area of course, but they do have routes set up weekly that take clients to other counties, even other states, in order to better serve the client’s needs. After being employed with the same company for 39-years, nearly everyone who has been a client for any length of time is sure to know Hodges. “I have seen many changes over the years,” Hodges confirmed. “I can say that it’s never been boring. I have had the pleasure of working with wonderful drivers and our clients. I truly love what I do,” Hodges added. To be approved through the Medicaid service, you may call 1-866-269-5927 for authorization. “It is our mission at Dunklin County Transit Service, Inc. to serve the public by making them aware of services that are available to them and by meeting the transportation needs in our service area,” Hodges said. “Meeting these needs will keep people mobile and active in their day to day lives. The Dunklin County Transit is a safe and dependable means of transportation, and we hope to meet all of your desired transportation needs, such as medical, social, educational, employment, etc.”
It’s not always easy to find that perfect job or career at an early age and some spend the majority of their life reaching to obtain a career that is fulfilling and at a business where they are valued and happy to show up each day. Katrina Hodges in Malden is one of those lucky few who found her calling almost immediately after high school. Hodges has been a Malden resident all of her life. “This is home and I love Malden,” she said. “My daughter Kendra and I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else.” After graduating from Malden High School, Hodges worked briefly at a full-service station, where she had actually been working part-time while attending school. But when a position for an Assistant Manager came open at the Dunklin County Transit, she decided to apply. “Mary Lee, who began the Transit here in 1982 hired me in 1983,” Hodges recalled. “I started out at the bottom you could say, and I have worked my way up over the years,” she added. In 2003 Hodges was promoted to Executive Director. “It was good to start out at the bottom and throughout time, learn the books, schedules, absolutely everything that exists to make us prosper and grow each year,” Hodges advised. “Without that time invested learning the books and everything else, I wouldn’t be able to do what I do now.” The Dunklin County Transit is a not-for-profit business.
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Brown continued, “It was used as far back as biblical times. It helps with diabetes, Parkinson’s, fibromyalgia, foot problems, and all kinds of aches and pains.” “It helps with the withdrawal symptoms from drugs like heroin and meth,” said Brown. “In this area, we have such a horrible addiction rate that they really need to stop and take a look at this.” Brown also offers Black Seed products. “It’s a completely natural plant also,” she provided. “It’s a little bit more harsh.” Brown sings the praises of the product stating it helps with cancer and stomach problems. “As we get older many people have bowel problems,” shared Brown. “It helps with that. If people would just research it, they would be amazed.” “They really would,” she added. Brown credits her son with her introduction to the CBD products and starting a business. “My son, Terry Brown, encouraged me to open the business,” Brown said. “He worked in the medical field in Michigan.” Brown added, “He offered CBD, medical marijuana, all of it. He has a lot of knowledge on these products.” Brown shared on the beginning of the Yuppie Hippie Farms business. “I had a friend and when her and I would take our breaks we’d say, when we retire we’re going to do this
Kennett native, Kay Brown, has worked all her life and doesn’t plan to stop anytime soon. “I’ve worked since I was 17,” she said. “I will not be one that sits down. I’m not going to do it.” “I like people too much,” Brown added. “If I can help them, I’m going to be there.” In fact, helping people has always been at the center of her career path. “I know a lot of people of all ages,” shared Brown. “I worked for Probation and Parole, I worked for DAEOC, and I worked for the Caring Council.” “I’ve always worked with those in need or living at the poverty level in Kennett,” she said. These days, Brown is helping through her business Yuppie Hippie Farms located at 810 North Bypass in Kennett. The store offers high-grade CBD, all one-hundred percent natural, along with other healing natural products such as Black Seed, and accessories. “These products do not get you high,” stressed Brown. “The CBD is beneficial in helping with so many ailments and diseases, including opioid addiction.” “The major drug companies don’t want you to know that,” she said. “It’s all natural,” stated Brown. “Some of the older women that I’ve worked with, at first they thought it was weed. It’s not.”
See BROWN page 8
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Brown
“People are starting to go towards the natural remedies,” she said. Brown enjoys being an entrepreneur. “I like the freedom of being a business owner,” said Brown. “It’s very rewarding as well. There are so many success stories. It makes me feel good to know that I’m actually helping someone.” Brown shared her work ethic came from her raising. “My dad always had his own business,” she said. “By the time I was 12 he had us at the kitchen table, my two sisters and a brother, teaching us how to keep books.” Brown continued, “That was something you had to learn. My dad owned the first laundromat here in town. He owned the first car wash in town. He also had a vending business that was six states wide.” Yuppie Hippie Farms is open Monday through Friday 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. For information about any of the products contact her at 573-757-8432. “This is not addicting,” Brown said. “You’re not going to get high. But you are going to feel better.”
From Page Seven business,” said Brown. “I retired first and then she came to me and said, let’s do it.” “She was with me for a couple of years, then she was afraid that it wouldn’t support her family,” informed Brown. “It takes about three years to get a business off the ground, so my son and I have stuck it out and it’s building. It’s amazing.”
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Valerie McRill Executive Director at Kennett Housing Authority Jeff Dorris jdorris@dddnews.com
“It’s been a good fit for me here,” said Valerie McRill, Executive Director at the Kennett Housing Authority. After thirty years of service, one has to acknowledge, it has been a good fit indeed. McRill started her career with the Housing Authority as a bookkeeper and worked her way up to her current position. “When my son, Adam, was six months old, I decided to go back to work,” said McRill. “I got a babysitter and went to the unemployment office.” McRill interviewed with then director, Gwen Brooks on a Monday, and on Thursday, she was notified she had the job. The Kennett Housing Authority offers adequate and affordable housing, economic opportunity and a suitable living environment without discrimination, for low income families, persons with disabilities and the elderly. McRill informed, “We have 298 housing units. The units were built between 1960 and 1965.” “I have 14 employees,” she added. “We have five in the office and ten in maintenance.” McRill shared that when she assumed the role of Executive Director in 2015, all the employees stayed with her. “It’s a very good team,” said McRill. McRill stated the Kennett Housing Authority is commu-
nity minded and helps the City whenever it can. “In 2006 KHA purchased the tornado/emergency siren that is located by the Housing Authority building,” informed McRill. “Also, on a couple of occasions KHA has reimbursed the City for the purchase of a police car used by the three officers that make up the security team for the Housing Authority. “Kennett Housing pays for three community police officers,” said McRill. “We have a daytime police office and two nighttime officers.” McRill continued, “We’ve always got three. One during the day, Monday through Friday, and the other two alternate nights and weekends. Security is really good.” McRill informed on the upkeep of the properties. “We get capital fund grants every year,” she said. “Those grants help us to update our units.” McRill stated, “We’ve put new roofs on. For the past few years we’ve put vinyl flooring in all units.” KHA supports their tenants in a number of ways. Kennett Housing Authority encourages all graduating See MCRILL page 10
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McRill From Page Nine housing seniors to apply for scholarships maintained by Missouri NAHRO (National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials) and Southwest NAHRO through public housing. KHA gives children in 1-12th grades money for perfect attendance and honor roll per semester. They give $100 to every senior that graduates who resides in public housing. Kennett Housing employees donate money in order to help a family at Christmas. McRill stated she believes it is good for women to be in the workforce and her mother is her inspiration. “My mother worked all her life,” said McRill. “We chopped cotton. I would encourage young girls to go into the workforce and be independent.” McRill continued, “My mother was very independent. She is my role model. She worked up until she was 78 years old.” “She’s still very active,” added McRill.
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McRill doesn’t plan on leaving anytime soon, but when she does retire she has some plans for her time. “I want to travel and camp more,” McRill shared. “I want to spend time with my best friend, my husband, Scott. McRill concluded, “I have no regrets. It’s been a good fit for me here at KHA. I really like what I do.”
Photo by Jeff Dorris, staff Angela Reed stands next to one of her top of the line tanning beds at Southern Glo Tanning & Boutique
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Nurse at FCCBH Healthcare Home Program and Owner of Southern Glo
Angela Reed
into the control box, which allows them access to the tanning area,” informed Reed. Reed stressed the building is very secure and always under surveillance. “We have security cameras,” said Reed. “We have them in the waiting room and outside in the street.” Reed continued, “Anytime anyone walks in or pulls in the alley I get notifications on my phone.” The success of the 24-hour tanning service keeps the notifications coming often. “I have seen literally four clients in that waiting area with one in the tanning area, and someone in the street
Jeff Dorris jdorris@dddnews.com
Angela Reed has brought 24-hour tanning to Kennett and her customers appreciate it, as evidenced by the expansion project underway. Her business, Southern Glo & Boutique opened on January 7, 2022 and has been quite the success since day one. “It took off very quickly,” said Reed. “That is why we are already expanding.” The center of the success revolves around the convenience of 24-hour tanning. “Customers are given an access code, which they enter
See REED page 12
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Reed
in dietary. I worked in the kitchen.” Reed continued, “Getting to know the patients and wanting to help them, it moved me into my nursing career. I have a big heart.” Upon graduating from nursing school Reed went to work for NHC HealthCare in Kennett. “I worked there for about six months on the 11 to 7 shift,” said Reed. “That became very tiring. I left there and went to Southhaven. I was there for seven years.” “Since I left that facility I’ve been at FCC Behavioral Health.” Reed has held many positions at FCCBH from behavioral health nurse to office manager at the FCC Primary Care Clinic. “Currently, I’m in their Healthcare Home program,”she said. “I enjoy nursing, plus I’ve always worked. That’s why I’m still at FCC and running my own business.” Reed said the idea for starting her own business formed in her mind quickly. “One day, out of the blue, I decided I wanted to do something different,” informed Reed. “As if my life wasn’t crazy enough, I wanted to add a business into it.” Reed continued, “Last year in July, I mentioned to my husband, Tim, I wanted to open a tanning salon and, what we obviously didn’t have in Kennett, a 24-hour
From Page Eleven waiting to get in,” stated Reed. “We’re going to correct those wait times by expanding and adding at least two more beds.” The beds themselves are impressive. “They all have air conditioners in them,” informed Reed. “They have shoulder tanners and face tanners.” The beds are top of the line Ergoline and KBL brand beds. “People come in and see these beds and they’re amazed,” said Reed. Southern Glo & Boutique offers a hands on presentation regarding operating the beds for their customers. “We do walk them through on how to operate the beds,” Reed stated. “You don’t start the bed from the bed. We have a box on the wall that you start the beds from.” Reed continued, “Our beds are 12 minute beds, where back in the day they were 20 to 30 minutes. The max time for my beds is 12 minutes.” Aside from being a small business owner, Reed has had a long career as a nurse. “I always knew I wanted to be a nurse,” shared Reed. “When I was in high school, I worked at a nursing home
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tanning opportunity.” “It took off from there,” she said. Aside from tanning Southern Glo & Boutique offers accessories, clothes, shoes, and Alani energy drinks. “They’re a huge hit here in Kennett,” said Reed. Reed added, “There are other boutiques that are great in town, that provide beautiful clothes, but me personally, I’m just simple, so I stock t-shirts, jeans, and shorts.” “I do have some nicer outfits, as well as, athletic gear, but mostly it’s just simple style,” she said. Southern Glo & Boutique is open Monday through Friday 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. and Saturday 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. The business is located at 105 S. Main. You can contact at 573-559-8118. Reed has three employees Sarah Payne, Kaydee Taylor, and Jaden Bowen. Reed has high praise for her staff and also acknowledges Dennis Pelts and Chad Payne in assisting with getting the business up and running. “If it wasn’t for Dennis I wouldn’t have found this building and Chad is one of the main builders that we have,” said Reed. Reed stated she has enjoyed her time as an entrepreneur. “I absolutely would encourage women to go into business for themselves,” stated Reed.
Reed and her husband, Tim, have two daughters, Kayli, 13 , and Kayla, 3. Reed concluded that she likes the paths her careers are taking her and doesn’t plan to give either one up just yet. “I’m content having my own business and still continuing with my nursing career,” Reed said. “I want to be a role model for my children.” “Everything is flowing well,” concluded Reed.
Dunklin County Transit 610 N. Douglass St., Malden, MO 63863 www.dctsmalden.com Katrina Hodges Executive Director k.hodges@dctsmalden.com Kristi Rawlings Assistant Director k.rawlings@dctsmalden.com Teresa Payne Maint./Facility Manager t.payne@dctsmalden.com toll free (800) 696-5806 office (573) 276-5806 fax (573) 276-5579
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