Finally got it! Ended up installing "GC VZW Arcsoft MMS 5.0.70.24" found over at
http://forum.ppcgeeks.com/showpost.p...&postcount=827 , also had to change the "connect via" in the sms/mms settings from verizon wireless to network. Then changed the registery -HTML/Software/Arcsoft/Arc Soft MMS UA/Config/mm1/WspHeader - Changed value to my 10 digit mobile number (XXXXXXXXXX) then I soft reset the phone and low and behold I start receiving and sending picture messages. Thanks to murducky for you help and patience with getting me going in the right direction.