GARY DEDEAUX SMALL SACRIFICES - GOOD MORNING AMERICA
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Spring 2013 Gary Dedeaux Small Sacrifices GOOD MORNING AMERICA Behind the Scenes tunica academy Makes a Way
• Planned giving—include Palmer Home in your will or estate plan
• Individual contribution—a one-time gift or annual commitment
• In honor or memory of a friend or loved one
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662.328.5704 or visit palmerhome.org.
2 PALMER HOME MAGAZINE
Contents
Volume 18 | Number 1
Editor Mabus Agency
Graphic Design Mabus Agency, Matt Watson
Photography Mabus Photography, Whitten Sabbatini
Palmer Home for Children
Board of Directors
small sacrifices
Charles Berry
Columbus, MS
Dewitt Hicks
Columbus, MS
6 A small business owner gives a surprising gift to Palmer Home in
memory of his daughter.
Dr. Robert Black Rev. Tom Kay, Jr.
Tupelo, MS Aliceville, AL
Dolph Bryan Tom McCann
Starkville, MS Peachtree City, GA
Karen Carlisle Charles McElroy
Memphis, TN Meridian, MS
Harold Clark Rev. George McKee
Starkville, MS Faunsdale, AL
Robert Clark Rick Powell
Starkville, MS Memphis, TN
good morning america visits
Doug Davis
Hernando, MS
Jon Reeves
Olive Branch, MS 10 A behind-the-scenes look at Palmer Home during a national
coverage event.
Kirby Dobbs-Floyd Donny Sanders
Memphis, TN Aliceville, AL
Larry Edwards Sunny Stuckey
Ridgeland, MS Olive Branch, MS
Gray Flora, III Lisa Turner
Columbus, MS Memphis, TN
Jack Forbus Lee Tyner
Starkville, MS Oxford, MS
Dr. Hugh Francis, Jr. Jim Walker
Memphis, TN Germantown, TN
JOINING FORCES WITH tunica academy
Charles Guest
Starkville, MS
Alan Walters
Jackson, MS 14 A look at how some Palmer Home children are being challenged
in a new environment.
Daryl Guest David E. White
Starkville, MS Meridian, MS
5 PERSPECTIVES: a need to call home
12 Ryan’s recipe
President & CEO Drake Bassett
13 I AM PALMER
Executive Vice President
Vice President of Business Affairs 19 WHOLE CHILD INITIATIVE
Robert Farris Carol Wright
Director of Marketing Vice President 20 history highlight, recent stats
& Communications of Development
21 PALMER FRIENDS, volunteer corner
Katharine Hewlett Josh Whelan
Director of Vice President 22 news & events
Human Resources of Children’s Services
Lynn Atkins Dr. David Foster
Palmer Home Magazine is published biannually and is
available by visiting www.palmerhome.org.
Donald Gene Ray
9/3/1939–1/14/2013
Palmer Home Magazine is published by Palmer Home
for Children, a Mississippi not-for-profit corporation This issue of Palmer Home Magazine is
that is recognized as a 501(c)(3) public charity. dedicated to Don Ray for his commitment
and service to Palmer Home.
SPRING 2013 3ONE MISSION To provide superior residential care for children that introduces the love of God through service, and extends that care to many more children in need Please help support our mission by giving at palmerhome.org.
A NEED TO CALL HOME by Drake Bassett
@DRAKE_BASSETT
W
hen I was a boy, I remember taking
hikes with my father on Saturday
afternoons. Crossing paths and
cotton fields, we would go until the
sun dropped, and I recall growing a
little uneasy about what might be behind a tree or in a dark
space. Whatever fear I carried could be easily masked—but I
also new that if something was there, Dad could handle it.
It helps to have someone with you when you face the
unknown. It’s funny to me now, but I thought I knew it all
at 21. I probably tried to explain that to my parents who
couldn’t possibly understand! Maybe that wasn’t you, but
looking back, I was just a kid with a lot to learn. Having
a family that loved me—even after I made my share of
mistakes—made all the difference.
Our children at Palmer Home need a family, too. Statistics
tell us that overcoming the cyclical patterns of a broken
environment is hard to do, and if we are not there to
support them, they run the risk of returning to a world of
alcohol, abuse, drugs, and neglect.
I am pleased to write that we are formalizing a Transition
and Independent Living Program. As we continue
teaching spiritual, social, and educational habits, we will
also coach their journey into adulthood. We want our
children to succeed and break the generational pattern that
brought them to Palmer Home in the first place.
The fact is, when I need advice, my first call is usually
home. I’ve never outgrown the need for a word of
encouragement from my father. The same will be true of
our children here at Palmer Home. However far they go
or whatever they face, we want them to know they are not
alone. Chances are, they might need to call home, and with
God’s continued blessing, we’ll be here to help.
It’s funny to me now, but I
thought I knew it all at 21.
SPRING 2013 5Small
Sacrifices
Gift honors life and memory of daughter
by kevin tate
S
tereos, firearms, golf clubs, was a slip that said, ‘For working today,’ “My dad was a chiropractor,” he
jewelry, small possessions and Ginger had listed all the things she’d said. “We moved here in 1961 when I
bought and sold in the course done, then at the bottom she’d written was five. In the latter part of ‘77 dad
of a life. Sometimes they’re just things. ‘40 cents.’ Those are good memories.” helped my older brother get into the
Sometimes they’re talismans of car business, and soon after that he
memory. After 35 years in the pawn Later, as an adult, her personality approached me about getting into the
business, the items that fill Gary and flair made her an instant hit with pawn business. I respected my parents
Dedeaux’s shelves speak of steady work coworkers and customers. a lot and without question, so when he
in a trade of honest compassion. They said, ‘Let’s do it,’ I was all in. I was 21,
“There were so many good attributes
tell of simple needs met nowhere else, I’d never been in business a day in my
about her,” Gary said. “The first thing
of the hardworking and the down-on- life. I’d worked for other people before,
that comes to mind is her loving spirit.
their-luck, of those simply looking to but nothing at all like this.
She could walk into a room and you
make a trade. Beyond the items and could just see the glow in her. She just
the shelves, employees who’ve been “We bought an existing pawn shop
glowed. You could be having a totally and I got 60 days of on-the-job training
with him for decades are a part of the rotten day and she had that ability to
story too, part of the legacy. To Gary from the guy who sold it to us. After
give you that smile and hug, the way a that, I was learning everything on my
they’ve become his extended kin and, mother does a child, just an embrace,
like the store’s other fixtures, they own and at my own expense.”
and then everything was okay. The economy of the late ’70s and early
carry memories of his own family, of
those still here, of some long gone, and ’80s left a lot to be desired, but business
“We were very connected. She was a
of one gone far too soon. was steady and good, and the store
very loving daughter. It was hard for
flourished while Gary’s experience
anybody not to love her. She could talk
Two weeks before Christmas in 2011, continued to grow.
to anybody. Some people you meet,
Ginger Dedeaux Bryan, 33, died you feel you have to walk around on
tragically and left a hole in the lives “The first time I placed an ad, it was
tiptoes, but she made anyone she met with a little radio station in Houston,
of all who’d known her. It’s a loss still feel comfortable.”
painfully felt, perhaps by none moreso Mississippi,” Gary said. “When I heard
than her father. Her memory lives on it playing, I thought I was a movie star.
The store was a fixture in Ginger’s life.
in his heart. It lives on in his workplace Boy, I had a lot to learn.”
She was an employee, part-time or full,
as well. almost all of her days. After she was Gary’s pawn business adventure began
gone, an urge to do something tangible March 13, 1978. Nine months later
“When she and her sister Gina were in her memory remained, something
in the neighborhood of 5 or 6 years Ginger was born. She, her sister Gina,
more meaningful than flowers, and the store grew up together. Today
old, they’d come to the store to ‘work’ something with more lasting impact
around Christmastime,” Gary said. the enterprise sports locations in both
than a single event. West Point and Columbus, Mississippi,
“Daddy was always busy working, but
Grandmaw would let them clean the and is a recognized brand throughout
Gary Dedeaux entered the pawn
glass cases and wrap small presents much of Mississippi and Alabama.
business during the Jimmy Carter
for the customers. They’d dust and administration on the advice and “My dad failed to teach me
sweep and do all the little things kids assistance of his father. something,” Gary said. “Sometimes
like to do at that age. A few weeks ago businesses can grow further and faster
I ran across an envelope addressed in a than you really want them to, but God
child’s handwriting ‘To Granny.’ Inside has blessed us immensely.”
6 PALMER HOME MAGAZINESPRING 2013 7
With more than three decades of “I’d been thinking of what we could do “Ginger was not a monetary person,”
growth, the store has long since been to help other people without seeming Gary said. “Ginger loved children. She
established as successful. Hard-earned to be making the gesture for our own absolutely adored children and was just
experience has seen to that. What to do gain,” he said. “At the time we were the type of girl who could connect with
with that success, though, weighed on planning our fifth annual Ruger sale, them like I’ve never seen. One of her
Gary’s mind, and all the heavier after a really big gun sale event we do once passions was taking care of children. She
Ginger’s passing. a year. In the previous four sales the loved to babysit. She had two nephews,
most guns we’d sold was about 625. and they loved their Aunt Ginger, and
“I’ve got a close friend in Huntsville, I thought, ‘Donate $10 per gun sold.’ she spent a lot of time with them.
Alabama, and he had some serious Somehow that didn’t feel right. I
health issues last March,” Gary said. wanted this to be something special for “It felt like Palmer Home was where
“He was about to have a surgery and, Ginger, so I thought, ‘OK, $20 per gun God wanted us to help.”
even though he downplayed the sold.’ That amount would pretty much
gravity of the situation, it turned out By the end of spring, his mind was
wipe out our profit margin on most of
to be very serious. I went over there made up.
the guns. Then God laid it on my heart
to visit him in the hospital not really not to limit what He could do. That So there Gary was last August, at the
planning to stay, but after seeing him thought process continued for a while. customer appreciation dinner that
and hearing what his doctor had to say I was putting stipulations on the gift. precedes the annual Ruger firearm
about the matter, I visited with him as I was thinking, ‘They buy, I give.’ God sale, one of his business’s biggest
late as they’d let me, then I went down said, ‘You give, I’ll take care of it.’ events of the year. As part of the
the street and got a room for the night
effort in support of Palmer Home,
at the first place I could find.” “I lay in bed, trying to think of how
an auction package donated by a
to do something that would make
As he lay in a foul motel room in a business associate was sold, donated
a difference, and a round number
dirty part of town and pondered first back, and resold that night four times
popped into my head.”
his friend’s mortality and then his over, netting more than $20,000 from
own, it occurred to Gary he could do He discussed it with Gina who agreed those in attendance. Further, the
something for a charity in Ginger’s and, together, they settled on Palmer Ruger company’s top brass was in
name and tie it to one of the store’s Home as the recipient. town because Gary had shared what
annual events. was on his mind and in his heart with
LOANS of CONVENIENCE
H
it television shows Dedeaux, of Gary’s Pawn customers who’re already in
everyday like The History and Gun in West Point and our system may come and go
collateral Channel’s “Pawn Columbus, Mississippi, said, in two minutes.
opens Stars” and a myriad of others
have introduced over-
“but now I feel like it’s more
a matter of convenience. “We see lots of regular
doors the-counter negotiations The typical loan in the pawn customers, some every
for mini- to the mainstream, but business is between $85 and month, some a few times a
year. These loans help them.”
banking professionals in the trade say
the primary key to long-term
$120. Those are amounts
traditional banks don’t want
deals success isn’t wringing every to fool with. Just starting
Gary’s been in the business
for 35 years.
possible dollar from each the paperwork on a loan
trade, but in building long- at a regular bank will cost “This business really helps
term relationships with the more than that. Plus, we’re people,” he said. “I’m a
customers who use the pawn so focused on customer people person, and building
service on a regular basis. service, a new customer can relationships through
be in with their item and this trade has been really
“We used to be called the out the door with their loan rewarding over the years.”
poor man’s banker,” Gary here in 10 minutes. Existing
8 PALMER HOME MAGAZINEthem and they wanted to be a part The previous record for most guns
of it. Ruger arrived with a big check sold in the event was 625. After four
of their own for Palmer Home, a days of controlled chaos, when the
huge check really, one made out for doors closed for the last time on the
$25,000. Even for a company their 2012 sale, they’d moved 1,275. Today,
size, a single amount like that is business continues to flourish at a
a lot to give to charity. Theirs was thriving pace. Still, the absence of
the place of honor at the banquet, Ginger and the sadness of her loss
the one check that changed hands remains, but honoring her memory
before flashing cameras and loud served an important need, both
applause. Gary had a check to for the Dedeaux family and for the
present as well. His was on regular children of Palmer Home.
stationery and sealed in a plain
envelope. None of the guests in the “I did what I did last year because I
room knew the amount. It was a felt God called me to do it,” Gary said,
number he arrived at through many “but a lot of my drive in doing this
conversations with God. was to honor her. When you have an
objective and a goal, there are things
“A hundred thousand,” Gary said, that can drive you toward wanting
“A hundred thousand dollars. That to achieve that. I was raised that you
was the number that seemed right; never gave up. You gave everything,
that was what felt right.” you did your best, but it was easy for
me to give a hundred percent here.
The next morning both locations of
his store opened their doors to start “You find yourself thinking about
the four-day sale. these things and it will engulf you
and overcome you. I deal with it as I
“Customers were waiting 15 to can, and this was a focus that helped
35 people deep at the counter all me. You can focus on the past, focus
day every day, and they were all so on things that can’t be changed, but
patient and kind,” Gary said. “My this was something that could help
people stood in there like troopers. change things going forward for
It’s because of them that we are these kids.”
where we are today. Because of their
hard work, the sale went flawlessly.”
Firearm Relationships with principals at Ruger
and Hornady have helped his store meet
“We met with Jason Hornady at the
Shooting, Hunting and Outdoor Trade
his customers’ demands. Show, the industry’s biggest trade event, in
Families “Ruger takes care of those who take care
2010, and he asked how he could help grow
our business,” Gary said. “I committed that
As the area’s major firearm retailer, Gary’s of them,” Gary said. “They make sure we we’d double what we bought from him if he
store has felt the recent rush sponsored have what we need, and Mike Fifer, the saw we got the product. He did, and we sold
by concern over the possible tightening of company’s president, really listens to what it all, so I made the same commitment the
gun laws. the customers have to say.” next year, re-doubling the order. We got all
of that and sold all of it again.”
“Under normal circumstances, firearms Supplying the store’s annual Ruger sale
comprise 30 to 35 percent of our usually means having more than 1,000 Both relationships go back to the old days
business,” Gary said, “but it’s been examples of the company’s best work on of handshakes and reliability.
considerably more than that over the hand, although last year saw that number
past few years. Getting product from the increase to a full 2,000. “Steve and Jason Hornady were here at the
manufacturers in a timely way is always big sale last August, and we hope to have
our biggest challenge.” Hornady, the ammunition company, them back again this August,” Gary said.
operates much the same way. “Hornady, to be a big company, is still a very
family-oriented, family-operated business.”
SPRING 2013 9visits Palmer Home
July 25, 2012 was a very big day for Palmer Home—in more
ways than one. Good Morning America featured Palmer Home
in their “Unclaimed Money” segment, which aired on Labor
Day of 2012, and we got the scoop on what went on during this
exciting day. The following is a behind-the-scenes look at some
of the interviews conducted by Elizabeth Leamy from Good
Morning America.
Meg Barclay: During the check reveal we did have to
What was your role during the broadcast? stop several times and start over because every time the
Meg Barclay: I was interviewed and asked to paint a picture broadcaster opened her mouth to speak, the train nearby blew
of the types of emotional issues/trauma that many of our its whistle. To make matters worse, the heat was horrible! So
children have been through prior to coming to Palmer Home. every time we had to stop and start over, I thought I would
die! Sweat was rolling down everyone’s faces and I could feel
Katharine Hewlett: it rolling down my back. I remember being so grateful that I
It was my job to arrange didn’t have to wear a suit and tie. I don’t know how Drake and
the visit of the treasury the others did it—and he didn’t even look hot and sweaty at all!
department and ABC’s
production crew. I
crafted the day’s agenda,
Did you get tongue-
selected the people to be
tied on camera?
interviewed, chose taping Meg Barclay: I don’t
locations, and arranged think I got tongue-tied,
for certain activities but I do remember
to take place. We also telling myself over and
invited the community over, “take your time
to be a part of the and TRY not to sound
check presentation and like a redneck. Ha ha!”
promoted the airing of
the segment.
Did anything go wrong during the broadcast?
Katharine Hewlett: My cell phone went off during the filming of
an interview, and they had to start the whole segment over again!
10 PALMER HOME MAGAZINEWhat was it like seeing yourself or your
coworkers on TV?
Tito & Damaris
Arroyo: It was
fun to see all the
houseparents
interacting like
we normally
do. It was a
good chance for
Meg Barclay: It was interesting to see how they clipped and
America to learn
pasted what I said to fit into the broadcast in a different way.
about a great
ministry.
What was the experience like for the kids?
Tito & Damaris Arroyo: The kids were so excited that they
were on television. They told everyone they came in contact
What surprised you most about being on TV? with all about GMA visiting them!
Tito & Damaris Arroyo: How professional the quality of
the broadcast was with only three people and two cameras If you could do it all over again, what would you
conducting it all. have done differently?
Katharine Hewlett: ABC had three people and two cameras Katharine Hewlett: Prayed for cooler weather, but honestly I’m
here and left with about seven hours of footage. As we escorted a little too far removed to remember. It was such an amazing
the three to the parking lot with a sweet tea to go, I felt our and rewarding experience and a great start to a new job! This
story had been told and they left feeling a part of something really set the bar high for the future of our organization!
greater. There were two other organizations that were gracious
Meg Barclay: The only thing I would do different is wear a
recipients of a portion of the same unclaimed money, but the
different shirt! I didn’t like the way it appeared on camera.
producer dedicated all of the allotted time for the segment to
Everything else, I thought, was just about perfect.
Palmer Home. I was surprised how well the whole story of
Palmer Home and the unclaimed money came together in a
little under five minutes with all they had done.
Drake Bassett: I was pleased that the GMA team took
the time to interview many of our staff. They took a
real interest in the work we do here. Elizabeth Leamy,
the hostess, observed off camera that “we have
something special here.” I am especially grateful they
spent quality time with the children—I think that’s
why they got the story right.
SPRING 2013 11Chocolate
Pecan
Chess Pie
with amaretto
caramel sauce
Ryan Wright, kitchen supervisor at Columbus
Campus, has a passion for cooking and a heart for
children—a great combination for Palmer Home.
SERVES 6
CHOCOLATE PECAN CHESS PIE Preheat oven to 400°F
In a small boiler or saucepan, heat peaks when the whisk or mixer
• 3oz unsweetened chocolate, chopped the evaporated milk and butter attachment is drawn upwards out
• 5oz evaporated milk over medium-low to medium heat of the egg whites.
• 3 Tbsp butter until the butter is melted. Add
• 1 ½ Cups granulated sugar the chocolate and stir frequently Gently fold the egg whites into the
• 2 Tbsp all-purpose flour until melted and all ingredients chocolate-sugar mixture until just
• ¼ tsp ground cinnamon are completely combined. Remove combined. Add the pecans and
• Pinch of ground nutmeg from the heat and set aside to cool. fold them gently into the mixture
• Pinch of salt until evenly dispersed, being
• 1 tsp vanilla extract Mix together the sugar, flour, careful not to over-mix and deflate
• 2 egg yolks cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Beat the egg whites.
• 2 egg whites the egg yolks and vanilla into the
chocolate mixture followed by the Pour the mixture into your pie
• ¾ cup pecans, toasted and lightly salted
sugar mixture until well combined. shell and place in preheated oven
(coarsely chopped)
on the center rack. Bake for 40 to
• 1 regular frozen 9" pie shell
In a separate bowl, using a whisk, 50 minutes until the filling is set
electric handheld mixer, or a stand and only slightly loose near the
mixer with a whisk attachment, center. Allow pie to cool, then slice
beat the egg whites until they and serve topped with amaretto
are light, fluffy, and hold stiff caramel sauce.
AMARETTO CARAMEL SAUCE
• 1 cup light or dark brown sugar, packed Combine brown sugar, sweetened condensed milk, heavy cream, and butter
• ½ cup sweetened condensed milk in a medium saucepan and bring to a boil over medium to medium-high heat.
• ½ cup heavy cream Once the mixture comes to a boil, reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes,
• 4 Tbsp butter stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and stir in the almond extract. Drizzle
• ½ to 1 tsp almond extract over pie slices and enjoy.
12 PALMER HOME MAGAZINEI PALMER
{ Marie Saxon Ford }
What are your most vivid memories of your time
at Palmer Home?
I remember my houseparents Jimmie and Aggie Hood.
They are who I consider to be my mom and dad. I remember
when they came to be houseparents at Palmer Home so
vividly. Palmer Home didn’t have houseparents to staff the
elementary girls cottage at the time and the high school girls
cottage houseparents were leaving so there was a great need
in both houses. I was to be moved to the elementary cottage
as soon as the houseparents were there. Mom and Dad (the
Hoods) came to interview and were touring the campus. I was
immediately drawn to them. I asked them if they would come
be my parents. We have been family from that moment on.
Those two people are responsible for molding me into who I Self-respect—Mom told me once, “There are two types of
am today. girls in this world: the one that a man takes home to meet his
How do you think that your time at Palmer family or the one he plays with. Which one are you?” I never
Home influenced your career choice? forgot that. Demand respect. You deserve it. I love my mom.
To be honest, it was a shock to my entire family that I became Drive—The houseparents and other staff encouraged us to be
a nurse (myself included). I have always had a “weak stomach,” better. They wanted us to be successful, and they wanted us to
and I didn’t discover nursing until I was about 30 years old. “make it.” It was the constant encouragement that provided
I always knew that I liked to take care of people, and I am the drive that I needed to be successful in life.
the “mother” to all of my sisters. When there is a question
or a need, they all call me for the answer just like my actual I am a very fortunate girl/woman to have grown up at such a
children do. I love my sisters and am glad that I have been able great place. Palmer Home was truly my saving grace.
to be there for them when they have needed me. I am thankful
How would you encourage kids at Palmer Home to
to Jimmie and Aggie Hood for instilling the confidence in me
use the lessons they learn there later in their lives?
that I needed to become a successful wife, mother, and nurse.
Oh wow…I really would love the opportunity to spend time
What do you think are some of the values that with kids at Palmer Home. I just want them to know that
you picked up at Palmer Home? there’s this great big wonderful world out there that is truly
Honesty—those who know me will tell you that I am almost open to them. There are so many opportunities that await all
too honest. of you. Pay attention to the things that those around you are
trying to teach you. They honestly have your very best interest
Accountability—those who led us taught us to be accountable at heart. Learn everything about life that you can while
for our actions. you’re there. Learn God’s word. Learn to be respectful and
learn those manners—people notice. Learn to listen. You are
Compassion—loving others and showing compassion for worthy. You are capable. You are truly a child of God.
them and what they’ve been through.
Spirituality—I had a wonderful grandmother who was a very
strong Christian influence before I came to Palmer Home,
but it was Palmer Home that helped me to continue to grow as a
Christian woman.
SPRING 2013 13Palmer Home
students thrive
through
Tunica Academy
partnership by JB Clark
Some Palmer Home children
are being challenged in a
new environment thanks to a
partnership with Tunica Academy.
JOINING FORCES
The partnership started with one Palmer
Home student in 2011. Tunica Academy
sponsored the student for a full school year,
and the program went so well that nine
students from Palmer Home now attend
Tunica Academy. Two years ago, Matthew
Nasekos, director of the Hernando campus,
had a candid conversation with Buddy
Allen of the Tunica Academy School Board.
“We started a discussion on education,
and it dawned on us that we could start a
mutually beneficial partnership,” Allen said.
“At Tunica Academy we’re always trying to
grow when it’s possible and sound, and we
want children who are being supported
with a Christian worldview.”
14 PALMER HOME MAGAZINE…we’re always trying to grow when
it’s possible and sound, and we want
children who are being supported
with a Christian worldview.
SPRING 2013 15Allen and another board member, Curtis Berry,
have supported Palmer Home through their church,
Tunica Presbyterian Church. “Curtis and I have
been personal supporters and we are impressed by
all things about Palmer Home—from the facilities
to the work being done and the behavior of the
children,” Allen said. Palmer Home pays a portion
of the tuition, and support from Tunica Academy’s
board—as well as community members—helps to
cover the other 80 percent of each student’s tuition.
Benefits of a
smaller school
Children who meet the academic requirements or
require a smaller school environment are chosen to
attend the smaller, private Tunica Academy. “With
all of our children, our desire is to do what’s best for
them,” Nasekos said. “Each child is different and has a
different set of needs. Some of our children have needs
that are better served in a private school setting.”
Brittany Fishburn, one of Palmer Home’s
housemothers, said she has seen an improvement in
the attitudes of the children in her care that began
attending Tunica Academy this year.
‘They actually all seem happier,” she said. “I think
that the small classrooms have played a part in that.
Socially, I see a big difference too.”
One of her boys, a freshman at Tunica Academy, went
to Lake Cormorant Middle School during his first year
at Palmer Home and made the transition to Tunica
Academy at the beginning of this school year.
“The smaller classes have given me more one-on-
one time with teachers. The academics are more
challenging, and I have to work hard. They make sure
I understand my work and they give me time after
class when I need it.”
Each child has a different
set of needs…Some are
better served in a private
school setting.
16 PALMER HOME MAGAZINE“The best part about being at Tunica Academy
is that I just feel more at home,” he said.
“When I get up every morning I’m excited
to go to school and I learn more. At Tunica
Academy, it’s a family. You know everyone
and you feel accepted.”
Housemother Terri Igleheart has three
children in her home that moved to
private school this year and has noticed an
increased dedication in the girls. “We’ve
seen a better study skill set,” she said. “They
have mastered studying and are doing their
homework. It’s more of a discipline now, and
I think that can be attributed to the one-on-
one attention they have. We also enjoy the
regular communication with teachers who
let us know the progress of each child.”
One of her girls, an elementary student at
Tunica Academy and a five-year resident of
Palmer Home, says it’s easier to concentrate
in the small school environment. “I like how
there aren’t many distractions to bother you,”
she said. “There are fewer people, and I feel
like I’m learning a lot. I like the small classes
and having more time with the teacher.” She
has never had trouble with academics so the
transition to a more challenging curriculum
is a welcome one.
A high school student at Tunica Academy in
Al Fishburn’s home wants to pursue sports
after high school. Changing to a smaller
school has given him the opportunity to
get more playing time. “I want to continue
playing sports in college,” he says. This
year on the football team he played offense,
defense, and special teams. “We pray
scholarships will be available,” Al says.
SPRING 2013 17The future
Mary Beth Bernard of the Hernando campus staff Lake Cormorant schools continue to provide a
said they have been very pleased with the academic great foundation for many of the children on
progress being made by the students who have this campus, but as Matthew Nasekos said, each
transitioned to Tunica Academy. “They’ve learned child is different. The goal of Palmer Home is to
how to be more diligent as students.” provide each child with the tools they need in
every aspect of life, and education is a large piece
The staff at Palmer Home would like to see more
of a child’s success.
students have the opportunity to enroll in Tunica
Academy. The partnership between Palmer Allen and Nasekos said they would like to see the
Home for Children and Tunica Academy allows number of Palmer Home children enrolled at
more options for children that are best suited Tunica Academy increase and would also like to see
for this educational facility. “We want to give community members help support those students.
them that opportunity,” Bernard said. “Because
“The children love it, and they love the attention
they get more focused attention and have more
they get in smaller classrooms,” Nasekos said.
opportunities in activities, it gives them a greater
“We love that the values taught there are the same
vision for post–high school education. Most of
as the values taught at Palmer Home.”
the students who attend Tunica Academy have a
desire for college, and our kids will get caught up To find out more about Palmer Home or how to
in that.” support a child’s education at Tunica Academy, go
to palmerhome.org.
Most of the students who attend Tunica
Academy have a desire for college, and
our kids will get caught up in that.
18 PALMER HOME MAGAZINEEDUCATION IS ONLY PART OF THE STORY…
Every child in our care is a gift and
responsibility. Since 1895, Palmer Home for
Children has been a safe harbor to children who
need a home, and their arrival often begins a
lifelong relationship. Coming from difficult
circumstances, we receive them in a spirit of love
and begin the journey forward.
The Whole Child Initiative is a deliberate
approach to serving our children in four
important areas: education, physical
development, emotional healing, and spiritual
growth. In the company of caring people, each
child is given the opportunity to overcome
existing obstacles and build on valuable
strengths. Working in the peaceful community of
Palmer Home, our prayer is that every child will
find a life path to accomplish and experience
everything God desires for them.
Spiritual THE WHOLE CHILD
"Everything is connected in a child's life. If a child
does not function well in one area of their lives then
it will inevitably spill over into every other area,
Education Emotional they are interlocking pieces. We recognize that
every child is created in God's image and therefore
no dimension of their being is without value,
dignity, and purpose."
Physical
—Dr. David Foster
SPRING 2013 19H ist o r y hi g hli g ht current
children
in our
care
4.3%
arkansas
11.4% 4.3%
tennessee alabama
P almer Orphanage was chartered
on April 29, 1895 and named for
Rev. Benjamin Morgan Palmer. Palmer
77% 1.5%
kentucky
mississippi
was a famous orator, Presbyterian
theologian, and the first moderator of the
Presbyterian Church in the Confederate 1.5%
hawaii
States of America. He pastored the First
Presbyterian Church of New Orleans
and was influential in the founding of
many orphanages in the New Orleans
area. William States Jacobs, the pastor of
First Presbyterian Church of Columbus,
challenged his congregation to start its own 53.5% 46.5%
female male
orphanage in Columbus and suggested it be
named in honor of Benjamin Palmer.
One piece of Palmer’s rich history that
has spanned 118 years is the Lindamood 10%
Building. The Lindamood Building was biracial &
Middle Eastern
constructed in 1898 when B.F. Bedinger
became superintendent. Upon its
completion, Palmer Home received the
first child into its care. Records show that 6%
vietnamese
the construction cost was $3,000 with
the last $1,000 being donated by Mr. W.S.
Lindamood, who named the building after
his wife, Hattie J. Lindamood. People from
all parts of the community pulled together
to assist in the construction of the building. 8%
Today, Lindamood is on the National Hispanic 64%
Register of Historic Places and remains the white
cornerstone of Palmer Home’s ministry
that has now grown to include two
campuses and has served the needs of over 12%
african-
1,000 children. american
20 PALMER HOME MAGAZINEWe
palmer
Friends
How did you get involved Are there any other aspects of
David & Joyce
Caldwell
Is there anything else that
with Palmer Home? Palmer Home that you most you’d like to say about
We belong to Independent closely identify with? Palmer?
Presbyterian Church [in East David helped build several building We love Palmer! The longer that
Memphis], which has always been projects on the Hernando campus. you’re around it, the more you
involved with Palmer Home. We attend the open house every really appreciate the work that
year. We’re also on the list to they’re doing. It’s great to see how
In what ways have you babysit so that the houseparents they take kids who often have had
supported Palmer Home over will have a night out. such a difficult start in life, and
the years? really blossom over just a few short
Palmer is somewhat unique in
We have two girls that we’ve been that they’ll work to keep siblings years. It’s really heartwarming to
sponsoring for about four years. It’s together. Often the foster care see what they’re doing in the lives of
about being there for them, loving system doesn’t have that same those kids.
them, and making life as normal for priority to keep siblings together. It gives them some normalcy. We’re
them as you can. It’s like having a big fans. It’s great to see the neat
family away from the houseparents work that they do in the lives of
where you focus in on them for a those kids...and ours. It’s a blessing
weekend or a holiday. When the to us to get to be a part of it in some
kids have something at school, we’ll small way.
go down for their programs as well.
volunteer
corner
What have you learned from drastically improved and What do you enjoy?
the experience? now he has all As! It’s great to have a
Palmer Home is not only a What is your impression of hardworking student to
home, but a great support Palmer Home? tutor, and the educational
system for its children. I went to the Mississippi environment is comfortable
They are a family, not an University for Women, but and encouraging with the
institution. this was the first time I had Scripture on the walls. It’s
Karen McCollum also exciting when work
is a volunteer tutor What impact have you seen? ever been to Palmer Home.
at Palmer Home. It is such a comfortable, groups are on campus
The scriptural-based because they are there as
After retiring as homey, and family-based
a schoolteacher computer program benefits volunteers, too.
environment.
but still wanting to one student in particular
serve children, she by giving him increased The children are involved in
got involved for the confidence in his academic lots of activities, and they all
first time in 2012. abilities. His grades have go to different schools that
best fit their needs.
SPRING 2013 21News & Events
RETIREMENT AFTER 20 YEARS OF SERVICE Brand-New Website Launched
Discover what you’ve been missing at palmerhome.org!
From the Southern Charity
Ledger to Palmer Home
archives—and everything in
between—Judi Brown is a
beloved treasure who began
working at Palmer Home
more than 20 years ago as
a temp and leaves Palmer
Home as assistant to the
president. A Godly woman,
Judi is genuinely the salt
of the earth, and holds a
special place in the hearts of
all who know Palmer Home.
GREENHOUSES OPEN
in columbus
Flower sales last from
April through June 1st and
our greenhouses are open
Monday–Friday 9 a.m.–4 Palmer home welcomes
p.m. and Saturdays 10 a.m.–2
p.m., located on our Columbus
Dr. David Foster
Campus. We offer gerber Vice President of Children’s Services
daisies, pentas, new guinea
impatiens, geraniums, Dr. Foster comes to Palmer Home
scavola, petunias, dragon wing for Children with over thirty years of
begonias, mixed baskets and professional experience in children’s
pots, annuals, herbs, vegetables services. In his most recent position
and much more—all lovingly he served as regional director for the
grown by our children! Mississippi Children’s Home Services.
Educated at Mississippi College, Columbia
As vice president of Biblical Seminary, Dallas Theological
children’s services, Seminary, Wheaton College, and Reformed
Dr. Foster will assist Theological Seminary, Dr. Foster brings a
to ensure that best combination of both licensed professional
Like our Facebook Page. practices are in place for expertise and active ministry experience.
facebook.com/PalmerHome the clinical and pastoral He is a licensed professional counselor and
needs of our children. a licensed marriage and family therapist
Follow us on Twitter. In addition to having taught at RTS for 25
years as an adjunct professor, Dr. Foster
twitter.com/PalmerHomeMS worked as a consultant to mission agencies
You can be the first to know what’s going on at Palmer Home and foreign governments in disaster relief
simply by checking your Facebook or Twitter news feed. Like our work. He has also served on many boards
Facebook page or follow us on Twitter today to stay up-to-date. and was appointed by the governor to serve
two terms on the State Board of Examiners
for Social Workers and Marriage and
Family Therapists.
22 PALMER HOME MAGAZINEAbout News and Events KEEP IN TOUCH
Keep in touch with the amazing work Palmer Home is doing. You palmerhome.org
can read more of the news stories, get more details about the needs,
and register for events at palmerhome.org. You can read more of
the news stories and register for events at palmerhome.org.
The Stables
Starkville, Mississippi
RECENT April 6, 2013
CORPORATE GIFTS
local farmer
donates winnings
americasfarmers.com/ Monetary contributions from the
growcommunities company, as well as gifts donated
by the employees, were shared with
the children of Palmer Home this
Christmas. Severstal employees
hosted a lovely reception for the
children and staff and enjoyed a
tour and singing by Palmer Home’s
Treblemakers Choir.
Wilbur Winland, vice president
Grow Communities, sponsored by and general manager, Severstal
the Monsanto Fund, gives farmers Columbus, remarked, “We have
the opportunity to win $2,500 chosen to donate to this worthy
for their favorite local nonprofit cause because every child deserves a
organizations. Floyd Lowry was the wonderful holiday season, regardless
winning farmer in Lowndes County of their circumstances. Helping
for the third consecutive year. He our local community, in any way
recognizes the need for children we can, is an important priority
to have access to agriculture and, for our company and especially for
once again, directed the donation to the employees working here at the
Palmer Home for Children. Columbus facility.”
Panola Street
Hernando, Mississippi
severstalna.com April 13, 2013
weyerhaeuser.com
ruger.com
Weyerhaeuser donated $10,000
to help fund special projects for Ruger C.E.O. Mike Fifer,
Palmer Home for Children’s inspired by Gary’s Dedeaux’s
therapeutic riding program, commitment (see page 6),
“Hope Reins.” donated an additional $25,000
on behalf of Sturm, Ruger &
Dennis Turner and Becky Co., Inc. The spirit of giving
Owings made a campus visit to continued with an auction of
see the therapeutic riding facility. a custom pistol that was sold
They met to discuss the details of four separate times, producing
what the money would be used another $25,000.
for and what benefits would be
reaped from the funds. Palmer
Home has used the funds to
build a new mounting ramp,
and will be using the funds to
build out the new barn.
SPRING 2013 23Non-Profit Org.
U.S. Postage
PAID
Permit #122
Columbus, MS
Where Hope Still Grows
P.O. Box 746
Columbus, MS 39703-0746You can also read
