Sights and Sounds 2011

T H E M A G A Z I N E O F A L A B A M A I N S T I T U T E F O R D E A F A N D B L I N D

Fall 2011

Get a job! Most of us probably heard those expectations from our parents when we were teenagers and young adults. Today, it is much easier said than done – especially if you have a disability.

Research shows that 33 percent (33%) of deaf adults, nation-ally, rely on federal assistance; 60 percent (60%) earn lower than average income. More than seventy five percent (75%) of blind adults are unemployed or underem-ployed. No doubt, the whole issue of jobs and unemployment in our nation has made this topic even more complicated and challenging.

“Solutions Leading to Employment” is the primary topic being discussed by our President, candidates for President, Congress and professional organizations for the deaf and blind. It is extremely hard for people to find a job and perhaps even more difficult to keep a job after you find it.

In a recent issue of the Journal of Visual Impairment and Blindness, Michele Capella McDonnell discusses findings from the second national longitudinal transition study entitled “Predictors of Employment for Youths with Visual Impairments.” McDon-nell’s study identified factors that impact employment for transition-age youths with visual impairments. The variables studied included: • Work experience• Receipt of SSI benefits• Academic competence (reading and math)• Transportation• Self-determination /attitude• Health• Completion of a postsecondary program• Parental expectations• Social skills• Independent travel skills• Use of assistive technology

McDonnell states in the study that “multiple work experiences result in a stronger network of people who can assist the youth or individual in finding a job.” Work experience is a major part of what we do in our education and rehabilitation pro-grams at AIDB. In fact, our strong belief in this practice has proven highly successful in Congressionally-funded job development programs in several areas of the state through our Gentry facility and Regional Centers. You will read more about these efforts in this issue of Sights and Sounds.

Other components of McDonnell’s study are strong dimensions of the AIDB cur-riculum for both children and adults where we emphasize academic and occupational diploma tracks plus career exploration and work experience; extracurricular activi-ties such as music, art and drama; leadership development and independent living training. We believe in immersing our students at all levels in assistive technology that builds self confidence and levels the playing field in both classroom and work environ-ments.

In a recent comparison, the graduation rate at Alabama School for the Blind (ASB) exceeded other schools by more than 65 percent, and ASB students out-performed their peers in reading and math levels.

McDonnell’s study also states that “the more diverse and expansive a person’s network is, the more likely it is that this network will lead to positive results.” Diver-sity is the very core of AIDB’s statewide network of education, rehabilitation and employment services for deaf and blind children and adults. We strongly believe that our continued investment in a diverse portfolio of training experiences will bring a positive return in the job market for those we serve.

Editorial Staff

Lynne HannerExecutive Director, Institutional Advancement

Lisa SamsCommunications Specialist

Jessica W. ParkerAssistant Director for Development

Jessica L. EdmistonConsultant

Alabama Institute for Deaf and Blind was established in 1858. Today, AIDB provides education, rehabilitation and employment opportunities to children and adults who are deaf, blind or multidisabled through the Alabama School for Deaf, Alabama School for the Blind, Helen Keller School of Alabama, E.H. Gentry Facility and Alabama Industries for the Blind. AIDB has a statewide network of regional centers with locations in Birmingham, Dothan, Huntsville, Mobile, Montgomery, Talladega, Tuscaloosa and Tuscumbia.AIDB is an affirmative action/equal opportunity institution.

On The Cover (Bob Crisp Photo)

Talladega Regional Center Early Intervention student Adalynne Parrish, Childersburg; ASB’s Jordan Evans, Birmingham; HKS’s Chase Jenkins, Lineville; and ASD’s Leilani Gorman, Lincoln, play ‘What will I be when I grow up?”behind the backdrop of art created by former ASD students.

Sights and Sounds is published by the Office of Institutional Advancement, Alabama Institute for Deaf and Blind, P. O. Box 698, Talladega, AL 35161. Telephone: 256.761.3206Fall 2011

AIDB Board of Trustees

Lynwood FrenchChairmanAshland

William P. “Chip” Dobbs, IIIASD ‘81Huntsville

Terry DunnSouthside

Jean (Bunny) GambleSelma

Ronald GarrettASB ‘63Talladega

John GrangerASB ‘44Talladega

Clarence HaynesTalladega

Joseph H. Johnson, Jr.Dothan

James N. Montgomery, Jr. Talladega

Jackie SmithASD ‘72Florence

Frances E. TaylorHuntsville

John E. WhitfieldDaphne

Melissa WilliamsonTrussville

Robert Bentley (ex-officio) Governor

Larry Craven, J.D.(ex-officio)Interim State Superintendent of Education

AIDB FoundationBoard of Directors

James I. BarganierMontgomery

Charles A. Collat, Jr. Birmingham

Charles A. Collat, Sr.Birmingham

Jerry W. DozierMontgomery

John C. Duckworth, Jr. Tuscaloosa

Jeffrey B. GaskinPresidentCharlotte, NC

M. P. Greene, Jr.Talladega

Brenda M. HackneyBirmingham

Allen C. HarrisAuburn

James I. Harrison, IIITuscaloosa

Rick HumphreyBirmingham

Fred McCallumBirmingham

Mark A. MorrisonLincoln

Thomas A. Richie Birmingham

Mike RoyerBirmingham

Julia H. SegarsAnniston

Great Expectations - Get a Job!

2 Sights & Sounds Fall 2011 www.aidb.org

Tools for SuccessAIDB breaks ground with Pathways and Exciting Business IIBy Jessica W. Parker

“Suffering has been stronger than all other teaching…I have been bent and broken, but - I hope - into a better shape.”

~ Charles Dickens, Great Expectations

For a long time, it was assumed that unemployment and underemploy-ment of people with disabilities was closely related to, and unavoidable consequence of, the disability of those concerned. Now, many recog-nize that disadvantages are not due to individual disabilities, but rather society’s reaction.

The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) June 2011 employ-ment data for people with disabilities ages 16 to 64 was 21.2% vs. 70.2% for those without disability. This, coupled with lower median household income for workers with disabilities compared to those without ($39,600 vs. $61,200), illustrates labor market obstacles and resulting unemployment/under-employment. But, AIDB hopes to change both statistics and perceptions.Making a Commitment

Thanks to a DOL-Employment Training Agency award, AIDB recently initiated Pathways’ and Exciting Business II. Goals are to increase employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities while building employer and state partnerships

to increase benefit awareness of hiring people with disabilities. Based in AIDB’s Mobile

and Birmingham Regional Centers, respec-tively, more than 100 referrals and dozens

of businesses educated have resulted in 15 individuals placed in 90-day work experiences and/or employed to date.

Making a Difference “This has given me the tools and

confidence I need to succeed,” states James Ransaw, who shy and sheltered was content at home. Not until his mother died, did he realize the need to update skills, learn money management and pursue work to live independently.

After training at AIDB’s E. H. Gentry Facility in Deaf Services, James was referred

to Exciting Business II where teamed with project director, Lori Mitchell, they went to work – literally!

Although intimidated, within

two weeks, James was joking with coworkers and developing a rapport with supervisors. His manager states although a new experience for Anniston’s Walgreens, James is one of the best decisions he’s made.

“James is motivated and takes pride in his work,” says Gentry Job Coach Jennifer Cooper. “James had the ‘know-how,’ he just needed a break.”Making a New Life

Daryn’s work history dates to 1995 - from dishwasher to laborer to mechanic – 10 jobs with at least half resulting in termination or him quitting. His home life was the same as he was asked to leave numerous places and was even homeless.

Referred to Pathways, Daryn was quickly placed in a job at a local eatery but again unsuccessful. His job coach and AIDB, Vocational Rehabilitation and Mental Health counsel-ors worked to review past mistakes and avoid future prob-lems. After several weeks of intense counseling, teaching and coaching, Daryn was ready.

Pathways staff met with Value Place in Daphne, an extended-stay hotel. Impressed, the manager met with her boss and his boss. Although concerned, each were willing for a trial hire for the custodian position. If Daryn could perform satisfactorily for two weeks, a job and a place to live would be his. Exceeding expectations, Daryn helped Value Place achieve an outstanding cleanliness rating at yearly review.

“Daryn is now ‘at home’,” states Laura Owens, Pathways Job Coach. “He has been well-accepted and respected. Three months later, his self-esteem has returned and he is enthusias-tic about his new life.” Contributing writers include Michelle Jones and Jessica L. Edmiston.

Bob Crisp

www.aidb.org Fall 2011 Sights & Sounds 3

To chat with Trey Gordon, one would think life has been one great expectation.

Straight-A student. Track star. Basketball MVP. Now with an Alabama School for Deaf (ASD) diploma and

provost scholarship taking him to Gallaudet University in Wash-ington, D.C., no one has greater expectations for Trey than he does for himself.

“I will be on my own for the first time,” says the 18-year-old. “I’m going to explore the world.”

But Trey doesn’t take success lightly, revealing deep feelings of being born deaf, growing up in the deaf community and edu-cated in public and deaf schools, but also from being the product of a supportive, encouraging family.

“I realize others are not as fortunate,” he says. “If not for my parents and this community, I would have had to work harder in different ways.”

In fact, statistics show that people with disabilities typically have to work much harder to reach the same success. For example, recent U.S. Department of Labor employment rates show that the unemployment rate for people with disabilities is at 16.8 percent compared to 9 percent for those without disabilities.

Trey’s parents are no strangers to the challenges. Even so, Rann and Myra Gordon have an unwavering confidence that their son will overcome discouraging unemployment figures and a poor economy which makes it extremely difficult for new college graduates to begin earning a paycheck.

“I am not too concerned about Trey finding a job once he graduates,” Myra says. “If he plans to work with deaf children, he should not have much trouble. Male deaf teachers and coaches are usually in demand. He would be an excellent role model and he has a strong desire to help those less fortunate.”

Trey’s older sister Amy Jones, who is hard of hearing, also is confident in her brother’s future. She has carved out a successful journalism career and works as an associate editor at The Shelby County Reporter. She attributes their success to their parents.

“Our parents are deaf, but they have conquered the world,” she says. “We feel they did it and we can do it, too.”

Rann, AIDB E. H. Gentry Facility’s Deaf Services Director, was born in Athens. His hearing parents didn’t realize their baby was deaf until he was a toddler. Having no experience with a deaf child, they made the difficult decision to send him out of state to

schools promising to teach him to talk.“They thought it was very important for me to learn to speak,

wanting the best education for me,” he recalls. After taking speech in Huntsville, Rann went to an oral school

in Fort Lauderdale, where he briefly met his future wife in 1964. He also went to public school, studying at a speech and hearing clinic in Montevallo before returning to Athens to graduate. Rann enrolled in Athens College and went to the University of North Alabama, earning a bachelor’s degree in social work and a master’s degree in rehabilitation counseling in 1980. Beginning his career at AIDB, he has remained ever since.

Myra, born in Montgomery, started speech when her par-ents learned she was hard of hearing at 19 months. She doesn’t remember Rann in Fort Lauderdale, though their parents kept in touch even after they moved Myra to Daytona. There, she learned to speak, living with a teacher who had a deaf daughter. She attended 3rd and 4th grades in Montevallo and returned to Montgomery to attend public school before eventually graduat-ing from private school.

Myra recalls her early educa-tion as good for learning but not particularly happy.

“I made great grades in school but my social life was limited.”

She attended Judson College where she majored in art and sociology, earning a master’s degree in rehabili-tation counsel-ing from the University

GreatExpectations

By Rose Myers

“Now, I return to this young fellow. And the communication I have got to make is, that he has great expectations.”

- Charles Dickens, Great Expectations

Bob Crisp


of Alabama at Birmingham in 1981 and a mas-ter’s degree in deaf education in 1991 from West-ern Maryland College, now McDaniel College.

Myra’s first job at AIDB was as a house parent, serving as assistant coordinator of student services for girls and a teacher’s aide. She now teaches

senior math, algebra and geometry at ASD, where she “loves the kids.”

Myra and Rann met again at ASD and were married within a year. They lived near campus and soon had Amy who began ASD when she was 1 ½ years old.

Until she was five, Amy went to a local day school in the morn-ing and to ASD in the afternoon. The principal recommended the Gordons send Amy to local schools.

Amy, who uses a hearing aid, did very well. After graduation she went to Auburn University and majored in journalism and English.

The Gordons expected their second baby to be hearing. Trey was born deaf in 1993.

Trey grew up loving sports. He still remembers his dad buying a basketball goal for the house when Trey was eight.

“That was awesome,” he says. “I played all the time. I didn’t have any friends living around the house so I shot hoops. And I got good at it.”

In 8th grade, Trey tried track and was surprised that he excelled in that sport, too. As a freshman, Trey left the track team to focus on basketball, knowing he wanted to play in college. But the track team needed him. As a junior, he rejoined and won state.

Unlike many athletes who excel on the court but struggle in the classroom, Myra only recalls Trey making one ‘B’ during his entire school career. While at ASD, Trey took advanced classes in public school with an interpreter. In high school, he took an advanced class at Gentry and an advanced math class at the Ala-bama School for the Blind, where he says he got lots of individual attention.

All the time spent in different environments helped create a well-rounded young man, comfortable with just about every-body. As a deaf person growing up in a deaf family, Trey fits perfectly in the deaf community.

“All the people I knew were deaf,” Trey says of his early years.

“I thought the entire world was deaf. That was normal to me.” The time spent in public school helped carve a spot in the hear-

ing world. “It was a good experience,” he says. “I learned to

adapt. I learned to fit in with all kinds of people.”Now Trey takes both experiences to college with

great expectations. “I want to make a difference in this community,”

Trey says. “I’ve got a passion to help others grow stronger.”

With an unbreakable bond to take everywhere he travels, memories will be a constant no matter how far he goes.

“My parents and my community taught me to be compassion-ate, to help others, to understand cultural differences and hard-ships,” Trey says. “They made this happen.”

“I will miss ASD. They gave me my childhood, a deaf child-hood. My teen years. They gave me the best education… ASD has taught me a lot about life and people.”

From Left to Right: Myra, Rann and Trey Gordon with Patrick and Amy Jones.

Bob Crisp

Bob Crisp


If a picture is worth a thousand words, then one sign is priceless.

Kenneth White

MentoringBy Jessica L. Edmiston

Take American Sign Language’s sign for ‘mentoring,’ with one fisted-hand behind the other, forefingers up, gently moving to demonstrate continuing encouragement.

Whether career, class or character mentoring, AIDB’s Overcom-ing Communication Barriers (OCB): Mentoring, through an Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP) award by Sen. Richard Shelby, works with AIDB and West Ala-bama students.

“As a senior, I took it upon myself to work with a younger student,” states Lee Curtis Leverette, a 2011 Alabama School for the Blind (ASB) graduate served by OCB: At-Risk, which assists students’ families and educators using multisystemic therapy/wrap-around case management. OCB: At-Risk students are first in-line for a mentor, who receive free background checks in partnership with Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs, Mentor Alabama and Department of Public Safety.

“I am a totally different person,” continues Lee Curtis, now at E. H. Gentry Facility. “Before, if asked to mentor, I wouldn’t have done it. Now, I am really interested in helping others.” Helping Others

Kenneth White knows first-hand what it means to receive a helping-hand.

“I was the only young person I knew with a disability,” he states. “I wanted to do so many things but always told I couldn’t…this made me very depressed. I would apply for jobs but got no calls due to my vision. I finally gave up.”

Kenneth was paired with Johnny Long, a Tuscaloosa native who is blind. He and Johnny mentor by phone while Kenneth is at Gentry, which includes Central Alabama Community College dual enrollment as Kenneth preps to be an Assistant Physical Therapist. On breaks, they spend time one-on-one, “just talking about life.”

“He gives me advice,” Kenneth says. “If I have a problem, he makes me feel better. He has helped me look at life differently. I had very low self-esteem; now I feel like I can do anything.”

“I’ve seen a real growth in Kenneth,” states Gentry Case Manager for the Blind, Jerry McKee, a recent mentor recruit, along with wife, Wendy. “He’s a model student and can certainly mentor others. He’s one of those students we’ll look back and say, ‘We’ve made a difference.’” Making a Difference

“Kids don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care,” states mentor Carol Hudson, AIDB’s Marianna Greene Henry Special Equestrian Barn Manager.

“One-on-one attention is such a precious commodity. I admit, the first time was a little awkward, but we soon fell into a relationship which quickly grew beyond horses. She now shares her problems, ambitions and dreams. I wouldn’t trade my mentor experience for anything. I have the flexibility to make learning fun while making a difference in a young girl’s life.”

OCB was initially developed on the premise that few—if any—model dropout intervention and prevention programs target stu-dents with sensory/multiple disabilities. Through both programs, participant incident reports have been reduced by 87%; unexcused absences reduced by 59%; suspensions/expulsions reduced by 98% and participants’ overall grade-point average raised one complete letter grade.

With hopes to expand, AIDB was nominated by the Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services (ADRS) as OJJDP’s Organization of the Year and for the 2012 Lewis Hine Award for Service to Children and Youth.

“AIDB’s spirit is characterized by staff dedication and program quality, rooted in a deep love for and commitment to those served,”

states Rita Houston, ADRS Assistant Commissioner for Deaf/Blind Services. “This is evident in the remark-

able implementation and amazing outcomes of both OCB: At-Risk and Mentoring.” Amazing Outcomes“Everyone likes the mentoring program,” states

ASB sophomore Anna Walsh. “It is nice to talk with someone…It’s something to look forward to every week.”As of May, 23 mentors have served 32 students,

with students self-referring and past participants requesting to serve, leading to additional pairings for the 2011-2012 school year and student waiting list.“I can’t believe this program,” states mentor Rusty

Mathews. “I’ve wanted this for a long time.”

Photos: Lisa Sams

Tragedy& TriumphBy Lynne Hanner and Jessica L. Edmiston

The April 27 tornado outbreak in Alabama is being described as the second worst in U.S. history with 62 tornadoes ravaging more than 1,100 miles.

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) statistics rank April 2011 as the most active tornado month on record with 753. The average number of tornadoes for April during the past decade is 161; the previous record was 542 in May 2003.

Among the 243 deaths were two children served by the AIDB Tuscaloosa Regional Center’s early intervention program. Ta’Christianna Dixon was 20 days shy of one-year-old. Her sister, Zy’Queria McShan, would have been three this Christmas. Each lost their lives when they were snatched from their grandmother’s arms. The family is too distraught to speak, but others have given them a voice.

The Westervelt Company, Tus-caloosa, has created a serene bench and fountain area on the Center’s front lawn in their memory. Ford Meter Box, Pell City, donated $500 to provide supplies to families. In fact, the AIDB Foundation

received over $2,000 in donated items or funds for distribution to needy West Alabama families.

Close to 50 AIDB students and staff – many also impacted or displaced by the storms – assisted in donation distribution centers or in debris removal. Alabama School for the Deaf seniors volunteered in Pratt City (center and below) with Alabama School for the Blind (above right) and E. H. Gentry Facility students and staff volun-teering in Williams.

“In tragedy and triumph, the AIDB family supports one another,” states AIDB President Dr. Terry Graham. “On behalf of those individuals who are deaf, blind and multidisabled – and their families – we serve, I cannot overstate my appreciation for the tremendous support provided. The

April 27 tornadoes tore apart communities and lives. But, through the wreckage, a stronger Alabama will emerge.”


edieval fairy tales don’t happen every day.

“A Medieval Fairy Tale” was not only a production cast with students from Alabama Institute for Deaf and Blind (AIDB), the four-footed friends of the students from the

schools therapeutic riding program were in the play as well.The production was the first for students in the Marianna Greene Henry Special Equestrian

(MGHSE) program and was an outstanding learning experience, said Elizabeth Stanley, MGHSE lead instructor.

“This production was absolutely a team effort and I felt like each person gave their all,” she said. “The students had to work and learn so much about teamwork. The show was entirely dependent upon team-work.”

The students loved being in costume, and being involved in the theatrical aspect of the project was a totally new experience the students embraced, Stanley said.

What made the production unique was that it was volunteer-driven and written by a volunteer as well.

It was 14-year-old arena volunteer Cody Staeck of Ohatchee who took on the job of directing the play, and he and his family wrote the script.

His mother, Michelle Staeck, and sister Aspen Staeck, hand-made each of the costumes for both the students and the horses.

Stanley has dreamed of putting on such a production for years, and this year the reality came about with others who were willing to get involved and on-board.

“The instructional staff stood together in dreaming, planning and teaching each part,” Stanley said. “It was truly amazing to see how much the volunteers did to make it all pos-

sible. Every one of the MGHSE staff and volunteers were willing to do more and help out wherever needed.”

Twenty students were involved from ages 8 to 18, representing the Alabama School for the Blind (ASB), Alabama School for the Deaf and Helen Keller School of Alabama. Members of the ASB Drama Club also assisted.

The story line was set with knights from throughout the kingdom who compete to become the winning knight sent to slay the ferocious dragon before he can gain the princess’s hand in marriage.

For more than half the students in the production, this was their first year in the riding program.

“This was extremely hard, and required several days a week practicing,” Stanley said. It’s amazing to see these students per-form.”

Some of the student performers were deaf, some blind, and some were blind and/or deaf with developmental delays. According to Stanley, all are inspiring.

By Laura Nation-Atchison

Excerpts reprinted with permission, The Daily Home

ASB student Cheyenne West, Ashland

ASB student Matthew Fontanez, Athens

Bob Crisp

Bob Crisp

With a $10,000 EyeSight Foundation of Alabama (ESFA) award and University of Alabama at

Birmingham (UAB) School of Optometry and School of Education, Special Education sup-

port, AIDB’s Birmingham Regional Center hosted a “Summer Chill Out” for children

with visual disabilities. Sponsored in part by the AIDB Foundation, UAB students implemented tactile activities as part of their graduate classes.

“It is crucial that graduate students partici-pate in academic and leisure activities with students with special needs during their professional studies,” explained Dr. Mary Jean Sanspree, UAB School of Optometry Research Professor and Associate Scientist. “This was the perfect venue.”

Activities included assistive technology presentations by AIDB’s E. H. Gentry Facility with trips to Alabama School of Fine Arts, Lakeshore Foundation, Birmingham Zoo, McWane Center, Oak Mountain State Park and AIDB’s Special Equestrian and Alabama School for the Blind (ASB) programs.

“The Camp learning opportunities and enrichment experiences provided for blind and low vision students will enrich their lives immeasurably,” explains Torrey DeKeyser, ESFA executive director. “An especially appealing aspect is collaboration with UAB’s Vision Education Program -- also supported through ESFA grants -- an excellent partnership that brings together two very outstanding programs for benefit of the children served.” Outstanding Programs

AIDB’s Mobile Regional Center hosted three different camps for Kids of Deaf Adults (KODAs) and children and adults who are deaf or hard-of-hearing.

“Definitely Fun Fridays” included trips to the Five Rivers Delta Center, Gulf Coast Exploreum, Mobile Public Library and Mardi Gras Museum. A Summer Art Outreach initiative -- one for adults and one for children -- was conducted with the Mobile Museum of Art. In all three camps, 15-20 individuals participated.

An Orientation and Mobility adult camp, in partnership with Alabama’s Department of Rehabilitation Services, provided lectures and cardinal directions and tactile map instruction to six people with vision disabilities. Outdoor excursions enhanced skills learned.

During ASB and Alabama School for the Deaf (ASD) week-long Summer Enrichment Camps for non-AIDB students, ages 6-16 and 5-15, respectively, students participated in field trips, horse-

back riding, swimming and skating. “The Enrichment Camp and Camp Asbury, our Independent

Living Camp, provide students with access to arts and crafts, music, games and independent living activities that many have never had,” noted ASB Principal Charlotte Lowry of the 23 participants. “Also, students have opportunities to socialize with their peers and form relationships with other students facing the same issues. One parent told me afterwards that her son said, ‘I felt normal.’”

“We attempt to provide each camper with an experience that is not only fun, but builds confidence,” explained ASD Principal Paul Millard, noting ASD had 46 students attend. “Parents often see this new confidence in their children and are also enriched by the experience.”Enriching Experience

“Camp can fill a void in education and social opportunities for students who are deaf or blind,” explained AIDB Vice President Dr. Frieda Meacham, explaining that HKS’s camp differs as it assesses potential for HKS admission.

“During the week, certified teachers evaluate students to obtain an overall view of their academic, residential, daily living and social skills,” stated HKS Principal Christy Atkin-son, who had 12 students, either deaf or blind along with other challenges, participate. “The Camp’s social component is as important as the academic aspect with students engaging in fun and meaningful activities.”

Expansion of outreach services for students who are deaf and blind served in Alabama’s schools is an AIDB strategic plan priority, noted Lynne Hanner, AIDB Foundation executive director.

“We are pleased that through internal and external collabora-tion, AIDB can help find a rewarding answer to the inevitable question of summer vacation time. It is a summer investment that will pay divi-dends all year long.”

Expectations for learning don’t stop during the summer - at least not within AIDB.

Outreach and Enrichment:

AIDBSummer Camps

By Jessica L. Edmiston

Photos:Jessica L. Edmiston


She didn’t get what she wanted so she kept on swinging through one political group after another. Oliver worked her way to the Montgomery statehouse and emerged victorious, waving a bill passed by the Alabama Legislature giving her just what she wanted.

Oliver’s mission was simple. She asked for a sign to be erected in her Hazel Green neighborhood warning drivers that a special needs child lives in the area. How that simple request turned into a monumental standoff is astonish-ing. So is the fact that a young mother of three, who by day works in a law office and by night takes college classes, was able to win over the political system.

But she did.She was able to do it because she

was scrapping for the rights of her 30-pound, 3-year-old son Ian, born with special needs.

“My son will see what his mom did for him,” she says. “I got a bill passed in one legislative session. It’s not a big bill but it means something. It gives special needs people an option.”

The journey started last summer when Jennifer went to Texas for a convention on Ian’s medical condition, Stickler’s Syndrome, a collagen-based deficiency that causes high-frequency hearing loss and severe near-sighted-ness. While there, she heard others talking about their com-munities’ goodwill gestures, such as erecting signs in their neighborhoods in an effort to protect the children. She had an idea.

Back in Hazel Green, Oliver went through the local chains of command to request a sign. She was switched, transferred and stalled until Oliver took her story to a local TV sta-tion. Then she finally got an answer but it wasn’t what she expected.

“I was told the sign would be illegal,” she says. “That a sign

saying ‘Deaf child at play’ would be a license to play in the street.”

Jennifer went on a local radio show and discussed the situ-ation on air. She soon received calls from two state senators and a member of Congress, all offering their assistance. She

was told she needed legislation passed giving authority to families to request signs.

After 11 months and 15 days, she got her sign declaring “Deaf Child Area.” Now Oliver thought of other people with special needs. She didn’t want them to have to start their own fight every time somebody wanted a sign. So she kept pushing to make it a law.

Once the proposed bill hit Mont-gomery, it passed right through the House of Representatives and then sailed through the Senate. House Bill 335 – better known as the Ian Langston Worley Oliver Act -became law the first of September.

The bill authorizes a city or county to install a deaf or blind child area sign on a residential road or street. The bill puts the sign’s cost on who-ever requests it or it can be paid by a neighborhood association. It also requires the county or city to review the sign placement periodically in case the family moves.

Jennifer’s long struggle culminated with the bill-signing ceremony – which she missed, but she did come out with a symbol of her victory. The family was given their own copy of the bill, which Oliver got custom-framed. She displays it so that her son will never forget the fight that went into Ian’s law.

“It’s something we can pass down to Ian,” she says. “It will be a keepsake.”

Ian’s family is served through the AIDB Huntsville Regional Center Early Intervention program.

A Mother’s FightBy Rose Myers

Jennifer Oliver started a fight with local leaders.


This meant Alabama Centre for Deaf-Blind/Multi-Challenged Services, one of many components of E. H. Gentry Facility, which helps those 16 and older within Deaf, Blind or General Services’ tracks achieve economic independence through customized employment training, college preparation and independent living programs.

Since day one, Matthew has prepared for probable total hearing and vision loss, attending Gentry in 2001 for six months.

“I came to prepare, to learn Braille. May 2005, my last eye was removed,” states Matthew, a Centre participant since January 2010 in the Business Enterprise Program (BEP), where students learn to operate and own vending and/or concessions businesses.

Matthew describes a lifetime of hearing and speech problems that are only worsening. A self-proclaimed “Techie,” he’s used comput-ers since the 80s, but admits technology is more crucial now.

“Gentry provided devices for me to hear people while running a cash register, taking Braille notes and inventory, but it falls to the client to accomplish their goals,” he explains. “You can’t take BEP lightly and it’s a hard job, especially for the Deaf-Blind. The main thing I have gained is confidence.” Confidence Builder…Independence Gained

Underwritten by American Recovery and Reinvestment Act awards through Alabama’s Department of Rehabilitation Services (ADRS), the pilot program will become permanent, continuing another phase of ADRS-AIDB’s 40-plus year partnership.

Focusing on those with challenging employment obstacles, requiring long-term focus and community/employment support, staff has served 25 people to date.

“The intense supports translate into jobs, increased independence and enhanced quality of life,” explains AIDB President Dr. Terry Graham. “Individual victories never quantitatively measured.”

Brittany Goodwin measures success in one word: Independence.Participating in the Centre’s Work Experience unit, Brittany,

an Alabama School for the Blind graduate, works as an Alabama Industries for the Blind seamstress.

“The best thing about my job is talking to old friends, meeting new people and learning,” Brittany states. “Without the staff, I know my life’s attitude would crumble.”

“Programs like this don’t exist,” notes Dr. John Mascia, AIDB Interim Vice- President for Adult Programs. “It’s difficult to convey the passion from the agencies involved to the goals students have set for themselves. To state that expectations are great, is an under-statement.”

Great Expectations“AIDB has the uncanny ability to adjust to each person’s individ-

ual needs,” explains Centre Case Manager Sandra Stephens. “We ask, ‘What do they need on their job?’ and ‘What classroom skills will transition into quality employment?’”

Along with a dedicated staff, technology is the great equalizer.With ADRS support, AIDB has applied to become Alabama’s

National Deaf-Blind Equipment Distribution Program site, a Federal Communications Commission pilot initiative to make telecommunications service, internet access and advanced commu-nications accessible to low income individuals who are deaf-blind.

“Nothing is more gratifying than seeing an individual, provided essential supports and accommodations become a productive employee and involved community member,” states ADRS Commissioner Cary Boswell. “The Centre has the potential to overcome the isolation individuals with dual sensory loss face in Alabama and beyond.”

For other success stories, visit www.aidb.org.

“Take nothing on its looks; take everything on evidence. There’s no better rule.”

- Charles Dickens, Great Expectations

Challenging Dual SensoryLossBy Jason Martin

Matthew Suggs likes to be prepared.

Right: Gentry Orientation and Mobility Specialist Debbie Scott communicates with Matthew Scruggs using a Deaf-Blind Communicator. Debbie reads the scrolling screen, entering responses on the keyboard – Matthew reads the refreshable Braille as she responds. Matthew can also pass the device to another person, asking for assistance crossing the street or about the location of the nearest restaurant.

Lisa Sams

Building Healthy Bodies…Alabama Power Commits Lead Gift to New Health Center

The campaign for a new Health Center to serve deaf and blind children and adults at Alabama Institute for Deaf and Blind has received a lead commitment of $500,000 from the Alabama Power Foundation.

Adalynne Parrish, Childersburg

“Many AIDB students come from rural areas of the state where specialized medical services and communication support are often limited, making on campus coordination of health care a critical factor in our overall education program for children and adults with hearing and vision loss,” said AIDB President Dr. Terry Graham. “To address a number of medical needs and acces-sibility issues in our Health Center, we plan to construct a single story complex as an extension of the Dowling Building that will connect the two facilities with a covered drive-through access and will incorporate an improved design in nursing care for our students. The estimated cost for this project is $2 million.”

“I am so pleased that the Alabama Power Foundation has com-mitted the lead gift of $500,000 toward the Health Center as a challenge for other foundations and corporations in the private sector to join us in an effort to make our medical facilities more appropriate and accessible for our students. The gift illustrates Alabama Power’s dedication to improving the quality of life for citizens of our state and I am grateful for the leadership of President Charles McCrary and Vice President Julia Segars in supporting AIDB’s mission.”

“For more than 150 years, AIDB has provided hope for a very special population in our state, and backed that promise up with the education and life tools necessary for its graduates to pursue and achieve their dreams,” said Julia Segars, Alabama Power

Eastern Division Vice President and a member of the AIDB Foundation Board of Directors. “But, it’s hard to focus on learning when you’re not feeling your best. We believe this Health Center is an investment in the overall well-being of AIDB students, both today and when they graduate, and in the peace of mind all parents feel when they know their children are safe and in good, caring hands. This invest-ment also is in keeping with the Alabama Power Foundation’s long-term commit-ment to be a partner in the communities we serve.”

The AIDB Health and Clinical Services Division provides a wide range of health-related services for students and clients throughout Alabama including audiology, psychology, dental, low vision, occupational therapy, physical therapy and nursing/medical pro-grams. In addition, AIDB Senior Services conducts hearing and vision screenings for more than 12,000 senior adults throughout the state.

The hub of AIDB Health Services revolves around the Nurs-ing/Health Center that provides routine and emergency medical services to all students and clients. Medication administration and education, routine physical exams, health education, and individualized plans of care are provided for more than 500 children and adults who call AIDB residential campuses home. The Director of Nursing, Traci Morrow, is a Certified Registered Nurse Practitioner (CRNP) and is available on a daily basis for examinations and to prescribe medical treatment for sick or injured students and a contracted local physician also provides care as needed.

Accessibility is a primary concern to be addressed in the new facility. Stairways are narrow and the facility’s single elevator is prone to prolonged outages and is not appropriately sized. Bathrooms are not fully wheelchair accessible and there is a need for lifts and specialized equipment to serve multidisabled student needs.

The new facility will incorporate fully accessible and specially equipped examination areas, patient rooms, nursing station and a

From left to right: Alabama Power Representative Julia Segars with Alabama School for the Deaf students and AIDB Director of Nursing, Traci Morrow.

Bob Crisp

Lisa Sams


dental clinic into a state of the art health center.AIDB’s emphasis on health care began following a 1925

influenza epidemic that swept through crowded dormitories on all campuses and claimed the lives of four students and one teacher. The following year, the first school nurse was hired. The Dowling Hospital Building was built in 1938 and renovated during the 1980s.

The sniffles, an upset stomach, a skinned knee – all are easily remedied with a little tender loving care from nurses standing in for Mom at the AIDB Health Center. But these nurses also

attend to the special needs of hundreds of students each day – from distributing medications to managing the care of more medically challenged children. According to Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) data statistics, nationwide, 1 in 9 students with a disability experiences chronic medical issues that impact their educational experience. The new state of the art Health Center will help AIDB address these challenges. For more information on the project contact Lynne Hanner at [email protected] or 256-761-3206.

State Leaders Visit AIDBAlabama government and business leaders have recently

visited to learn more and offer support for AIDB programs. Commencement 2011 featured Alabama Power President Charles McCrary and Alabama Governor Robert Bentley as speakers at the Baccalaureate service. AIDB President Dr. Terry Graham introduced the speakers, thanking them both for taking the time to be at AIDB so soon after devastating spring tornadoes put the state in crisis. Governor Bentley said that although a lot had happened in the state he made a special point to be at AIDB for commencement. “I came here to speak to you directly to tell you how proud I am of what you’ve accomplished,” Bentley told graduates. He encour-aged them to be servant leaders, to continue to work hard and overcome obstacles.

Charles McCrary told students about the importance of being accountable, treating everyone with dignity, integrity and enjoying life. “I tell everyone if you get up and hate going to work you need to change jobs. Life is too short.”

Alabama Power President Charles McCrary is pictured with

AIDB Trustee Terry Dunn, Governor Robert Bentley and AIDB President Terry Graham.

Senator Del Marsh, President Pro Tempore of the Alabama Senate, and Senator Jerry Fielding have toured to learn more about AIDB’s statewide services for deaf and blind children and adults, along with other members of the state legislature. Senator Marsh and Senator Fielding are pictured with Indus-tries for the Blind Plant Manager Charles Roden and produc-tion worker Jeff Lang and AIDB President Dr. Terry Graham.

“I am so grateful that Senator Marsh and other legislative leaders have taken the time to listen and to visit because they need to understand our story,” said Graham. “Without tuition or local tax initiatives we depend on the legislature to operate our programs. I sincerely appreciate leaders like Senator Marsh spending a half day of his time here to get to know who we are.”

“The services I’ve seen today are too important to risk cutting any program, so we’re going to do what we can to make sure that doesn’t happen,” said Senator Marsh. “AIDB’s needs and issues will be taken into consideration.”

Bob Crisp


AIDB News in Brief

Accomplished Coach, Community Leader now Regional DirectorAlabama School for the Deaf (ASD) employee and alumnus (’86) Patrick Robinson is now AIDB

Talladega Regional Center Director.AIDB operates eight regional centers located in Birmingham, Dothan, Huntsville, Mobile, Montgomery,

Talladega, Tuscaloosa and Tuscumbia, serving infants, toddlers and adults with hearing and vision loss in their home communities. Talladega’s Regional Center serves East Alabama residents through early inter-vention, home training, assistive technology, information and referral, technical assistance, interpreter coordination, sign language classes, transportation, community service access and education.

Robinson holds a Psychology bachelor’s degree from Gallaudet University, where he was a women’s basketball student coach for three years. He also holds a Deaf Education master’s degree from Western Maryland College.

Previously, Robinson served as ASD house parent, assistant coach, dorm supervisor, adjustment specialist, job coach, summer work coordinator, head volleyball coach and, recently, work experience coordinator and head basketball coach. Under his leader-ship, the Silent Warriors Basketball Team won two straight national championships with Robinson named Coach of the Year by Deaf Digest in 2009 and 2011. He was also Talladega County Volleyball Coach of the Year three times. For a listing of Robinson’s various memberships and community service endeavors or to learn more about ASD or Talladega Regional Center (412 Cherry Street,Phone/TDD: 256.761.3370), visit www.aidb.org.

Introducing HKS Principal: Christy AtkinsonWith accolades including “stellar academic background,” “entrepreneurial,” and “energetic,” Christy

Atkinson is named Helen Keller School of Alabama (HKS) Principal. Atkinson earned her administration certification and Ed.S. in counseling and guidance and a bachelor’s

degree in elementary education from the University of Alabama at Birmingham, along with a master’s degree in counseling, University of Montevallo. Nationally-Board Certified in Early Childhood Educa-tion, she has served as a mentor for other candidates since 2006.

With teaching and counseling experience at Clay-Chalkville schools, she served as Springville Middle School Assistant Principal and Eden Career Technical Center Director/Principal. As Bevill State Community College’s Director of Grants, Atkinson success-fully generated a variety of resources and implemented training programs with regional workforce development groups. She has served on accreditation teams and as the leader of best practice committees. To learn more, visit www.aidb.org.

Safety & Security Program Enhanced With 20 years-plus in law enforcement, Mike Hubbard joins AIDB as Safety and Security Director. With a Criminal Justice bachelor’s degree from Jacksonville State University, Hubbard has served as

Talladega County Sheriff ’s Department Captain and Chief Investigator for the past 10 years, joining the force in 1988.

Within AIDB, Hubbard will develop and implement a 24-hour Institute-wide safety and security pro-gram including, but not limited to: preventive, emergency and crisis management; day-to-day campus and

public safety and security staff/student training. Hubbard has supervised operations in the Talladega and Sylacauga investigative offices; developed local, state and federal part-

nerships; processed court evidence; participated in intruder training; worked with schools in emergency planning; participated on the Alabama Child Death Review Board; liaisoned with the Fire Marshall’s Office and is FEMA National Incident Manage-ment System certified. Memberships include: Fraternal Order of Police, Southern States Benevolent Association and the National Deputy Sheriff ’s Association.

14 Sights & Sounds Summer 2010 www.aidb.org

AIDB News in Brief

ASD receives Lemak AwardAlabama School for the Deaf (ASD) was among 12 Alabama high school recipients of the 2011 Dr. Lawrence Lemak $2,500

Award. ASD Athletic Director Walter Ripley applied on ASD’s behalf and has acquired track equipment, supporting ASD and ASB along with schools across Alabama as ASD hosts several annual local and state track meets. Coached by Chris Moon and Mavice Robinson, respectively, both ASD Girls and Boys Track Teams were 2011 Mason-Dixon Champions.

ASD is no stranger to Champion-status. ASD’s Football Team was named 2010 Mason-Dixon Champions, its Basketball Team named NDIAA Division-1 Basket-

ball Team of the Year along with several coaching honors (www.aidb.org). But Alabama School for the Blind (ASB) nor Helen Keller School of Alabama (HKS) are to be outdone.ASB’s Red Skins were named South Central Association of Schools for the Blind (SCASB) Champions in Wrestling, Track

and Cheerleading. Additionally, 14 HKS students participated in Special Olympics, bringing home 14 Gold, 12 Silver and 7 Bronze medals in Gymnastics, Golf, Powerlifting and Track. For a complete student listing, visit www.aidb.org.

Horace Patterson Appointed to State Senior Services BoardDr. Horace Patterson, AIDB’s Senior Services Director, was appointed by Ala. Gov. Robert Bentley

to serve on Alabama’s Senior Services Board of Directors. His term of service will run concurrently with the Governor’s term of office.

“Appointing you to this position comes with great responsibility, as you will be making important decisions that affect the citizens of Alabama,” writes Gov. Bentley. “Honesty and integrity are two virtues I prioritize for my Administration to exemplify, and I know that you will do the same while in

service to our great State. I encourage you to be a good steward of the taxpayer’s money, and to work to maintain the trust that I, and the people of Alabama, have in you.”

Frances Taylor to Serve as AIDB TrusteeGov. Robert Bentley has appointed Frances Taylor, Huntsville, to AIDB’s Board of Trustees, representing

Alabama’s 5th Congressional District for a term ending November 2014.Taylor earned a bachelor’s degree in history from Randolph-Macon Woman’s College in Lynchburg, VA.

As a Defense Contractor Program Manager with Integrated Materiel Management Command, she writes business case analysis for major weapon systems, a position she prepared for as senior branch team member for Intergraph Corporation.

Taylor has worked with United States Air Forces, Europe, as lead evaluator on various Air Force Smart Operations for 21st Century events. Community activities include the American Cancer Society, South Huntsville Civic Association, Huntsville Community Watch, Huntsville Press Club, Army Aviation Association of America, Association of the U.S. Army, National Rifle Association and member of Holy Spirit Church. She is past president and founding member of the Republican Women of Huntsville and a member of the Madison County and Alabama State Executive Committees.

News Clips:AIDB received its fifth no-findings audit in six years from the State Public Examiners; the AIDB Foundation also received

a ‘clean’ audit, a streak that continues for more than a decade....ASB, ASD and HKS were each accredited by AdvancED/Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) with E. H. Gentry Facility earning the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities highest level of accreditation for a period of three years through 2013...And, ASB received a $9,500 HillCrest Foundation Award to establish a Low Vision Lab; visit www.aidb.org for the full story.


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P.O. Box 698Talladega, AL 35161

Address Correction Requested

“I feel like I am one of the highest-paid people at AIDB. I don’t get a check, but my pay comes direct deposit...to my heart.”

Robert C. Weaver’s words speak volumes to his love, dedica-tion and unwavering support of AIDB. What began as a request to assist with Alabama School for the Blind (ASB) weight-training classes in 1960 has blossomed into a 50-plus-year relationship - one that continues to grow today! At 83-years-young and over 12,000 estimated campus visits, Mr. Weaver’s contributions have been life-changing.

For his work, AIDB nominated Mr. Weaver for The NASCAR Foundation’s Betty Jane France Humanitarian Award, which will honor four individuals who have “made a significant impact on the lives of children through volun-teerism or charitable work,” while showing a “distinct and unique passion for NASCAR.” Three runners-up will each receive $25,000 for their designated charity with the winner receiving $100,000 for their charity of choice.

More than 300 nominations were sent in from across the country. After each was carefully scrutinized by a panel of judges, Mr. Weaver made the FINAL FOUR!

Many are aware of Mr. Weaver’s countless acts of kindness, including his most “delicious” effort as THE ICE CREAM MAN. But, he also has a lifelong passion for NASCAR– from attending the very first race at Talladega Superspeedway in 1969 to buying the first ticket to the International Motors-ports Hall of Fame in 1990.

He persuaded Neil Bonnett to visit an Alabama School for the Deaf (ASD) boys’ dormitory and produced an inspiring National Anthem rendition for Speedway fans, featuring an ASB vocalist and three ASD students who “sang” along in American Sign Language.

And, one of his favorite NASCAR memories was taking a former ASD student “in search of ” drivers dining out during race weekend. They lucked up and met Darryl Waltrip (DW)

in 1981 and saw him again the night before his big win at the 1982 Winston 500 in Talladega.

Some 25-plus years later, Mr. Weaver’s “chance” meet-ing with Waltrip came full circle with DW hosting AIDB’s annual fund-raiser, RACE FEVER, cre-ated by the late Bill France, Jr. in 1986. The annual fundrais-ing event has now raised over $3.5 million for AIDB’s cam-puses!

But, AIDB needs your help!NASCAR Foundation will determine the

overall winner by relying on fan votes. To cast your vote for ROBERT WEAVER to win the Betty Jane France Humanitarian Award, go to www.nascar.com/award. Vote once a day, every day; voting ends at midnight, December 1.

Mr. Weaver once said, “I don’t hit any home runs, I just do little things.”

The ‘little things’ have added up. Mr. Weaver’s dedication spans 50 years and his volunteerism is as diverse as it is expan-sive. He is a shining example of the difference one person can make in the lives of so many. Now, hit a home run for Mr. Weaver and for AIDB.

Vote for Robert C. Weaver at www.nascar.com/award!

Weaver FeverBy Jessica W. Parker

Robert Weaver, The Ice Cream Man

Sights and Sounds 2011

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Transcript of Sights and Sounds 2011