A night of fun, food and music with friends is planned for Thursday, April 3rd, at the“Night at the Races” derby style party to benefit The Learning Tree. The event will be heldat the Ezell House in Mobile beginning at 6:30 p.m. with heavy hors d’oeuvres, complimentarybeverages, music and silent auction. Tickets are $60 perperson, with limited seating available. For sponsor information or to reserve tickets please call Paige Norris, Resource Development Assistant at (251) 654-2144.

ImpactA NEWSLETTER FOR FRIENDS, FAMILIES AND SUPPORTERS OF THE LEARNING TREE

A Night at the RaCes

WINTER 2014 ISSUE: First Annual Puzzle Piece Dash • Chip in for Autism • Message from the Director and more

For the second year, The Learning Tree was selected for the Honeywell Rebuilding Together project. The big-hearted volunteers replaced the entire roof on the Llama Farm group home, removed overgrowth and debris from the yard, and replaced damaged fenc-ing around the property. Also, we appreciate all of the wonderful volunteers from Hon-eywell and the Knights of Columbus, with a special thanks to Andy Schmit and Tracy Robinson. The project value is estimated at $24,000. Also, thank you to Charles and Shelia King and Lisa Ann Spurling for coor-dinating the roofing donation made by U.S. Steel Fairfield Works; custom cutting provid-ed by Schulte Building Systems; transport and storage by Gadsden Machine Shop.

Honeywell Rebuilding Together Project

Congressman Mike Rogersand Andy Schmit

Volunteers help replace a roof on theLlama Farm group home.

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Message from the Executive Director, Dr. Marc Williams: New Directions for the New Year.

Beginning this New Year… I am pleased to let you know that our preschool services will continue in Anniston and Auburn. New alliances and unexpected financial support “paved the way” to continue these important services. More than 125 preschool children are now being served across the state. What a wonderful difference just a few months can make. In other exciting news we have attained new consulting contracts that will also allow us to expand our services to families and other service agencies across the state. We look forward to many more opportunities this year.

Additionally, I want to extend my sincere appreciation to our board of directors, community donors, parent groups, volunteers, and staff, for your hard work and support in 2013. With your help through personal donations, appeals, and support of special events, more than $350,000 was raised. We are continuing in our efforts with the Annual Fund Campaign to raise $1,000,000 this year.

Looking forward… we pledge to continue in our mission, dedicated to serving children and adolescents with significant educational, medical and behavioral challenges.

The Walk for AutismThe Walk for Autism is scheduled for Saturday, April 5th in Mobile. New statistics indicate that some form of autism affects 1 in 88 children. The mission of the Autism Society of Alabama is to improve services for persons with Autism Spectrum Disorders and their families through education and advocacy. Services provided by ASA: State level advocacy and representation, information and referral, support groups, con-ferences and seminars, family camps, and awareness. For information contact Angel Loewen, Community and Program Coordinator, at angel@autism-alabama.org or 251-259-5553.

Arc State and Local AwardsAt the annual Arc meeting and awards banquet The Sykes Family, Greg, Judy, Andy and Kevin of Mobile, were recognized as the Family of the Year Award. The award is presented to a family, having a member with a developmental disability and has inspired other families. Jerre Brimer, retired Learning Tree, Executive Director, received the Franklin Smith Award for National Distinguished Service. The Smith award recognizes an individual whose contributions have had a major impact on the lives of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families at the local, state, and national levels.

Winter 2014Volume 2 • Issue 1

http://www.learning-tree.org

Established in 1983, The Learning Tree, Inc. is a nonprofit organization dedicated to children and adolescents with significant educational, medical, and behavioral challenges; helping them develop and maintain a quality of life expected by non-disabled members of their family and community.

The Learning Tree is governed by avolunteer board of directors, represen-tative of the primary service areas in the State of Alabama.

Board of DirectorsMike MarionNathan HandmacherDr. John CaldwellDr. David EllisAllison KendallDr. Sam PernaDr. Marcia Rossi

This newsletter is published by The Learning Tree, Resource Development Department compiled and distributed by coordinating offices located in these Alabama cities:Anniston/JacksonvilleAuburn/TallasseeMobile

The Learning Tree, Inc.Administrative Office101 S. Dubois StreetPO Box 780639Tallassee, AL 36078334-252-0025

Executive DirectorDr. Marc Williams

Regional Director-Anniston/JacksonvillePat Murphy

Regional Director-Auburn/TallasseeWhitney Hester

Regional Director-MobilePosition Vacant

Operations DirectorBen Rogers

Resource Development DirectorSheila Sears

Member of the Alabama Autism Providers Network Collaborating,Advocating and Caringfor People with ASDwww.al-autismproviders.net

The Providence Hospital 3rd Annual “Chip in for Autism” Golf Tournament, benefitting Woody’s Song School was held in early October. This year’s event raised over $30,000! More than 80 golfers took to the greens at Azalea City Golf Course on a beautiful fall morning. The day ended with a drawing for a custom fishing rod, in autism colors, made by Cast Tech Custom Fishing Rods. Success wouldn’t have been possible without the hard work of mom, Cindy Fulford and all the families that worked on the front lines and behind the scenes. Dinner was provided by Hungry Owl restaurant. Many thanks to Title Sponsor Providence Hospital and other sponsors, including:

The Providence Hospital 3rd Annual “Chip in for Autism” Golf Tournament

Title SponsorsProvidence Hospital

Platinum SponsorsBaker, Donelson, Bearman, Caldwell & Berkowitz, PCIn Memory of Dr. Roger J. Bartels – The Sykes FamilyBrindlee Mountain Fire Apparatus, LLCThe Cieutat FamilyHPC Specialty PharmacyHealthSpringFiretrol Protection SystemsJones Walker, LLPNicholas Insulation ServicesPNC BankSeibert, Baxter & Co., PCThe Sykes FamilyThe University of South Alabama

Gold SponsorsAltapointe Health SystemsThe Carroll FamilyThe Hungry OwlThe Iqbal FamilyLyon Fry Cadden Insurance CompanyThe Orthopaedic GroupRussell, Thompson, Butler & Houston, LLPSaad Development CompanyThe Starr FamilyXanteWillis of Alabama

Hole SponsorsAlabama Orthopaedic ClinicAmmons & Blackmon ConstructionBurk-Kleinpeter, Inc.C & C Investments

Callis CommunicationsMr. and Mrs. Clifton ChathamChildren’s Medical Group – Dr. Lisa McDonoughChildren’s Medical Group – Dr. Faye RobertsCintas CorporationCitrin, Rihner & Gupta CardiologyCottage Hill CivitanDiversified RoofingJames B. Donaghey, II, DMD, PCMr. Philip EpsteinExpress Oil Change & Service CenterThe Forsman FamilyHargrove Engineers + ConstructorsHarty Carpenter Group – Merrill Lynch

In Honor of Skev – The Karavokiros FamilyThe Magee FamilyMeresys DevelopmentMobile Premier Pediatric DentistryRobert Mullek Crop InsuranceMr. Jerry OvesonAlica Perry, Ph.D.Precision Tool & Grinding, Inc.Redd Pest SolutionsRich’s Car WashSmith, Dukes & Buckalew, LLPSunbelt FireTerMac Construction, Inc.John Toomey and Company, Inc.Volunteers of America Southeast, Inc.

The Learning Tree Mobile wrapped up the Thanks-giving holiday weekend with the First Annual Puzzle Piece Dash 5k, benefiting both The Learning Tree and the Autism Society of Alabama. The Title Sponsors for this year’s event was the J.D. Jones Group and HPC Specialty Pharmacy. Over $7,000 was raised. Woody’s Song School mom, Keri Benson worked tirelessly with Angel Loewen of the Autism Sociey to help make this event a success. We greatly appreciate all of the volunteers that braved the chilly morning to manage set up and registration. Harley Jones and Jeb Fulford were amazing. Todd Villarreal and Judy Sykes were indispensable at the registration table. A special thank you goes to St. Lukes Key Club for their help with promoting the event and manning the water stations. We couldn’t have done it without all of you!

Title SponsorsHPC Specialty PharmacyJ.D. Jones Group, LLC

Fun Run SponsorsGulf Coast Surgical SpecialtiesThe Houston Jones Fan Club

Water Stop SponsorMobile Premier Pediatric DentistryUniversity of South Alabama

Little Tree “Branches”C & C InvestmentsThe Carroll FamilyDr. and Mrs. Mark ColicchioExpress Oil Change and Service CenterMs. Monique MoonGreg, Judy, Andy and Kevin SykesJohn Toomey & Company, Inc.

Jerry Brimer receivedthe Franklin Smith Award.

The Sykes Family was recognizedas the Family of the Year

J.D. Jones Group & HPCSpecialty Pharmacy Host First Annual Puzzle Piece Dash

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Auburn City Schools partnership establishesLittle H.A.P.I.E. Tree PreschoolSince the new partnership began in August with Auburn City Schools the children and teachers at Little H.A.P.I.E. Tree Pre-school in Auburn have been very busy! The Preschool is now located at the Auburn Early Education Center, a beautiful mod-ern building with increased preschool instructional space. Last year, the Little Tree Preschool served 24 children. In August the school year started with 50 children, and is now approaching 75. Preschool teachers have adjusted well to their new surroundings and have worked diligently to maintain the high quality of both programs involved in the new partnership. Most importantly, the children are experiencing new skills and demonstrating significant outcomes. “We appreciate everyone who participated in this suc-cessful collaboration,” said Dr. Marc Williams, Executive Director.

A Tallassee Thanksgiving Feast for All!The Tallassee program is truly thankful for John and Marjorie Caldwell again this year. A huge Thanksgiving feast was deliv-ered to the school for more than 70 children, their families, and employees. The Caldwell’s gift was for the employees in appreci-

ation for the love they demonstrate for the children, their tireless work, and dedication. The Caldwell’s made it even more special for the staff by having vol-unteers to help serve the entire Learning Tree family!

Religious Community Continues Holiday TraditionFor years the First United Methodist Church of Tallassee and Oak Valley Station United Methodist Church have generously given gifts to the 35 children at the Tallassee Residential School. Members of the Oak Valley Station United Methodist church also beautifully wrapped all of the gifts. Their thoughtfulness and kind-heartedness for our students is greatly appreciated.

Tallassee Girl Scouts Volunteer for LibraryThe Tallassee Girl Scout Troup 9017 spent many hours sprucing up hundreds of books in the Tallassee school library. Kristen Davis, teacher and girl scout mom, coordinated this volunteer event! The Girl Scouts also assembled a special holiday candy gift bag for all of the employees at the Tallassee school for holiday appreciation.

Save the Dates!On Saturday, April 12, plan to run or walk in the

2nd annual “Tiger Trot for Tots 5K” to benefit The Learning Tree and The Little H.A.P.I.E. Tree Preschool. Plans are underway for an even

bigger year than last year.

From August to May, visit Niffer’s at LakeMartin and either of the two locations in Auburn

for Niffer’s Gives Back.

ASU’s Dr. Marcia Rossi HonoredDr. Marci Rossi attended her last meeting in Decem-ber as a member of the Rights Protec-tion Committee. At that meeting, the Regional Director, Whitney Hester, presented her with a recognition plaque for her support and dedication over the years. Dr. Rodney Teague was welcomed as the new Rights Protection Committee Chairperson. Dr. Rossi is a psychology professor at Alabama State University and oversees undergraduate students who are placed at the Tallassee Residential School for practical class experiences. She has served as the Chairperson for the Rights Protection Committee since 2005 and currently serves on the Board of Directors.

Casual for a Cause EventGKN Aerospace and Community Hospital in Tallassee participated in “Casual for a Cause”. Donations were accepted to wear blue jeans to support children with autism. The money raised will purchase iPads for children at The Learning Tree school. Tallassee City School system will participate in February.

AUBURN/TALLASSEE REGION ANNISTON/JACKSONVILLE REGION

3rd annual Aces for Autism benefit GalaThe 3rd annual Aces for Autism formal benefit Gala was held on January 25th, 2014 at Classic II on Noble Street in Anniston, AL. They enjoyed an exciting evening of casino-style gaming, silent auction, great food and music. Goodfellas from Birmingham did an amazing job entertaining guests with blackjack, craps, rou-lette, 3-card poker, Texas Hold ‘Em, and slots! The grand prize giveaway was a $500 gift certificate from Diamond’s Direct –Cahaba Village in Birmingham. Mr. Steven Charles, from Atlanta GA, provided a nice musical jazz touch.

Silent auction items included an autographed print of Amari Coo-per from The University of Alabama; an autographed football by Coach Nick Saban; a Tiffany & Company necklace; a long week-end vacation in Gulf Shores – kindly donated by the President of the Board of Directors, Mr. Mike Marion; an autographed print of Coach Gus Malzahn of the Auburn Tigers; a Disney vacation; and an antique oil painting donated by Timeless Treasures in Oxford, AL given by long-time supporters, Mr. and Mrs. Gary Wigington of Anniston, AL. Also, International Wines & Craft Beer donated several high quality wines to top off the auction in grand style…there were baskets to match every guest’s interest.

Fort McClellan new home to Little Tree PreschoolThe Preschool move to the Fort McClellan location was possible due to the hard work of JSU students, community volunteers, parents, and Learning Tree staff. The needed building renovations and classroom arrangements were completed in a very short time frame to ensure that the school would re-open as scheduled. The improvements and new media equipment were made possible by the Anniston County Commission and the New Hopewell Church.

First Annual Monster Dash Held More than 75 runners and numerous volunteers helped show their support for the first ever fall 5K Monster Dash. The October event raised just under $5,000. Sponsors included: Mayer Electric,

Comfort Care Hospice, Albert and Wanda Young, Renee Stuckey, Eddy Johnson, McCord Communications, Annis-ton Medical Center, TCI Communications, Mar-shall Industrial Supply, and Slo’ Moses.

MOBILE REGION

Mark Your Calendar and Get to Newk’s EateryOn the first Thursday of each month, between the hours of 5:00 to 9:00 pm, Newk’s donates 20% of each sale for anyone that mentions The Learning Tree when they order. Many Thanks toChasity Johns, Assistant Manager and Newk’s Eatery for theirsupport of the Learning Tree!

PRCATHINK EventThe Mobile Chapter of Public Rela-tions Council of Alabama (PRCA) award-ed Woody’s Song School the proceeds of their annual THINK event. The luncheon and silent auction raised $1,520 to purchase three recreational tricycles for the school. Woody’s Song School parents, Elaine Baxter, Cindy Fulford and Nathan Handmacher also attended the event.

AAPi Christmas PartyThe Alabama Association of Paralegals, Inc. (AAPi) named The Learning Tree as recipient of a silent auction at their annual Christ-mas Party. Thank you AAPi for helping to increase awareness of autism for our children and families.

Gulf Distributing Christmas PartyGulf Distributing played Santa’s helpers for residential children in Mobile. They raised more than $8,000 for gifts for 30 children;

backing up a van loaded with electron-ics, furniture, desks…even Ipads. Em-ployees made sure each child’s wish list was complete. The children opened one gift at their Christmas party

the others were saved to open on Christmas day. Gulf Distributing employees made sure each child’s gift wish list was complete.

Donors Make Sure No Child is ForgottenThree adult residents were blessed with gifts from some very special community support. Many thanks to Christ United Methodist Church, Mr. Abe Harper with Harper Technologies, Mr. and Mrs. Ronnie McCarson, Moffett Road Assembly of God Church, Praise Family Church, Regions Bank and Trax Tires for making sure these special guys had gifts and a festive Christmas.

GKN Aerospace

Community Hospital

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MOBILE REGION (continued)

Listing reflects donations made August 2013 through January 2014.

FUNDING PARTNERS ANDOTHER SUPPORTERSAlabama Dept. of EducationAlabama Dept. of Human ResourcesAlabama Dept. of Mental HealthAuburn City SchoolsAutism SpeaksDavis Direct, Inc.McClellan Child Dev. CenterMobile County Public SchoolsUnited Cerebral PalsyVolunteers of America

JACKSONVILLE/ANNISTONAaron’s of JacksonvilleActive NetworkMr. and Mrs. Calvin AllenMr. and Mrs. Aaron AndersonMr. and Mrs. Cliff AndrewsMs. Katie AnkiewiczAnniston Medical Clinic, PCAuburn UniversityMr. Jimmy BaileyMr. and Mrs. Robert BainMr. Sammy BaughMr. and Mrs. Gregory BavoneseMs. Rhonda BeasleyMs. Donna BennettMr. and Mrs. Lester BerryMs. Angela BradfordMr. and Mrs. Paul BryantMr. Kevin BrowderCalhoun County CommissionCalhoun County Farmer’s FederationMr. and Mrs. Duane CampbellMs. Tiffany CanadyMs. Cathy CauseyCenter for Proactive Medicine, PLLCMr. Frank ChakaMr. Cody ChristoffMr. and Mrs. Michael ClontsMr. and Mrs. Eugene CivitelloMr. and Mrs. Joshua CrawfordMs. Brittney CollierMr. and Mrs. Don CotneyCouch’s JewelersMs. Brandi ElliottMr. Frank Chaka and Ms. Carolyn EvansMr. Mike CochranMr. Bobby ColeCornerstone Tool & Mfg., Inc.Mr. and Mrs. Richard DawsonMr. and Mrs. Loren DeFreitasDisney IncorporatedDiamond’s DirectMrs. Angela DoddMr. and Mrs. Will DooleyMs. Tracy EdmondsonMr. and Mrs. Michael ElliotMs. Amanda FlemingMs. Emmie FloodFlowers By RitaMr. Matthew FordMs. Karri FramesMs. Michelle FramesMr. and Mrs. Vincent FrankMr. and Mrs. Matthew FreemanMr. and Mrs. Conrad GambleMrs. Elizabeth GeorgeMs. Rajae GillespieMs. Rosland GrahamGreater Anniston Business & Professional Assoc.Griffin’s JewelersMr. Matthew GrizzardMs. Mary Martha HallMs. Brittney HallmanMr. and Mrs. John HammettMr. and Mrs. Ray HammettMrs. Michelle HammondMs. Angie HammondMr. and Mrs. Shayne HanaMr. and Mrs. Eric HannersMs. DeAnna HarrisMr. and Mrs. Russell HollandHoneywell – Rebuilding Together Mr. Scott HowardInternational Wines & Craft BeerMr. and Mrs. Stan IveyMr. Dennis JenkinsMr. Thomas JenkynMr. and Mrs. Edward JohnsonMr. and Mrs. Paul JohnsonMr. and Mrs. Curtis JollyMr. and Mrs. David JudgeMr. Ahmed W. KaziMr. and Mrs. James Kitchen

Mr. and Mrs. Charles KingMr. Robert B. KohnMr. David LandersMs. Jamie LoganMs. Nancy LovellMs. Deborah MachenMs. Vonteria MackeyMs. Elizabeth MaloneyMs. Katherine ManusMs. Joni MaquirkMr. and Mrs. Mike MarionMarshall Industrial Supply, Inc.Mayer Electric Supply CompanyMs. Lorna McArthurMr. and Mrs. Ken McAllisterMs. Judy McCarleyMr. and Mrs. Donald McCarleyMs. Christy McSpaddenMs. Kacie MeyerMcCord CommunicationsMs. Tajuana MoncusMs. Lisa MondragonMr. and Mrs. Fred MorrowMs. Sheila Jones-MullinsMr. and Mrs. Daniel MurphyMs. Patricia MurphyMr. Alan NordstromMs. Paige NorrisMr. and Mrs. Tom NortonOak Grove Baptist ChurchOmni CareMr. and Mrs. Greg ParkerPairs and Spares Sunday SchoolMr. Allan Pace Ms. Miranda ParkerParker House Ms. Jennifer ParrisMr. and Mrs. Wayne ParrisPiedmont RescuePiper’s PlayhouseMs. Jean PopeMr. Desmond RedwineRegions BankMr. Chad RobertsonSALON 6Mr. John SandersMs. Valerie ScottMr. and Mrs. James SearsMs. Vickie SearsMs. Katherine SikesM.M. SmithsonMr. and Mrs. Dan SpurlingMs. Jean M. SpruillMr. and Mrs. Darren SpruillMr. and Mrs. Quentin SpruillMs. Mellissa StearnsMr. and Mrs. Megan SticeMs. Brandi StallingsMs. Morgan StiversMs. Renee StuckeyMs. Sheila SummerlinSWANK BoutiqueMr. and Mrs. Brent TaylorTelephone Communications, Inc.Tiffany & Co.Timeless TreasuresUniversity of AlabamaMs. Laura TwilleyMr. and Mrs. Jason VossMr. Caylin WaddellMs. Cynthia WallsMs. Kristi WarrenMr. MaBric WebsterMr. and Mrs. Dallas WeldonMr. and Mrs. Phillip WhatleyMr. and Mrs. Dane WhiteMr. and Mrs. Gary WigingtonDr. Marc Williams and Mrs. Phyllis ReilleMs. Cindy WilcoxMs. Galyn Wilcox Ms. Nayira WilcoxMr. Benji WillmonMs. Carrie WoodwardMs. Pamela WrobelMs. Elener WyckoffMr. and Mrs. John WytheXtreme Auto SpaMs. Krista YarbroughMr. and Mrs. Donald YotherMs. Dara YotherMr. Albert YoungMs. Linda Young

AUBURN/TALLASSEEMr. and Mrs. Bobby AdairMr. Joseph Allen and Ms. Rachel TurnerMr. John Bonner

Britt Veterinary Services, LLCMs. Norma BrunsonMs. Valerie BrunsonMr. Mark Alan BuceThe Chase AgencyMs. Martha ClarkMr. Billy DonleyMr. and Mrs. Andrew GanttMs. Merideth HendersonMr. and Mrs. Jason HesterMr. and Mrs. Joey HesterHis Eyes, Inc.Mr. and Mrs. Steve JohnsonMr. and Mrs. Curtis JollyMr. and Mrs. Michael JonesMr. and Mrs. Bruce JorgensenMr. and Mrs. Michael KnowlesMr. Steve MancilMs. Paula ManningMr. and Mrs. F. Lann MiddletonMr. and Mrs. Stephen MissildineC.S. MoonMr. and Mrs. Russell MyersMr. and Mrs. Arthur NobleMr. and Mrs. Harold PattersonMs. Dana PriceMs. Jennie RhinehartMs. Teresa RodriquezMr. Steve RoweMs. Tara Rose RoweDr. and Mrs. James SearsMr. and Mrs. Dale SegrestMr. and Mrs. Patrick ThompsonMr. Michael WatsonMr. G. Samuel WebsterMr. and Mrs. David WildmanMr. Marc Williams and Ms. Phyllis ReileMr. Charles Winchester, Jr.

MOBILEMr. and Mrs. Gary AdamsAlabama Association of Paralegals, Inc.Alabama Orthopaedic ClinicMr. and Mrs. Peter AmannAmmons & Blackmon ConstructionAnnunciation Greek Orthodox ChurchMs. Aynsley ArmstrongMs. Valerie R. ArnoldBaker, Donelson, Bearman, Caldwell & BerkowitzMr. Chuck BaldridgeMr. John Craig BarkerMr. and Mrs. David BarnettMs. Kerrie BensonMs. Jana K. BladesMs. Donna BlackMs. Arria Jones BlantonMr. and Mrs. Gerard BlumMs. Maria BradfordBrindlee Mountain Fire Apparatus, LLCMr. and Mrs. Stuart BrinkMr. Donald BriskmanMs. Donna BroomeMr. and Mrs. Roger BroomeBurke-Kleinpeter, Inc.C & C InvestmentsMr. Terry CanovaMs. Amber CarmichaelMr. and Mrs. Craig CarrollMr. Arby ChandlerMs. Debra ChapmanThe Charity RunMr. and Mrs. Clifton ChathamChevron Humankind Matching Gift Program/Mike KaravokirosChrist United Methodist ChurchMrs. Jean CieutatMr. Ronald CieutatMr. and Mrs. Ronald CieutatCitrin, Rihner & Gupta CardiologyCivitan Club of Cottage HillDr. and Mrs. Mark ColicchioMs. Bridget M. CongletonMr. Randy CopelandMs. Stormi CostonMs. Shelby CourtneyMr. and Mrs. Richard Coyerdailygood.comMs. Erin DennisMr. Rick DennisMr. and Mrs. Scott DensonMs. Brooke DevlinDiversified Roofing ServiceJames B. Donaghey, II, D.M.DMs. Michelle DooleyMr. and Mrs. Joe EilandDr. David Ellis

Ms. Melissa EngleMr. Philip EpsteinMs. Kellie EvansExpress Oil Change & Service CenterMr. and Mrs. DJ FarnellMs. Leigh FarniMs. Ashley FavreMr. Bain FerebeeMs. Deanna FergusonFiretrol Protection SystemsMs. Samantha FlemingMr. and Mrs. Tony ForsmanMr. Nicky FosterMr. Jeffrey I. FriedmanMr. Lowell FriedmanMr. and Mrs. Gary FulfordMr. and Mrs. James FulfordMrs. Michael GabayMs. Stella GambleMr. and Mrs. William GambleThe Gap – Old NavyN. GinsbergMs. Jill GottliebMs. Sarah GranoGulf Coast Surgical Specialists, Inc.Gulf Distributing CompanyMs. Sondra GurwitchMr. Juan GutierrezHPC Specialty PharmacyMs. Sandra HallMr. and Mrs. Paul HandmacherHargrove Engineers + ConstructorsMr. Abe Harper – Harper TechnologiesC. Hodges Harty, III, Harty Carpenter Group – Merrill LynchMs. Cathryn HarwoodMr. and Mrs. Richard HarwoodWilliam G. Helis Chapter AHEPA FoundationMs. Angela HenryMr. Talaneous HenryMs. Marcia HornMr. Jon HornMr. and Mrs. Todd HosemannMs. Layne HouseMr. Robert HouseMr. Scott HowardMs. Margaret HubbardThe Iqbal FamilyMs. Elena JohnsonMr. Andrew JonesMs. Blight T. JonesMr. Don JonesMr. and Mrs. Haney JonesMr. and Mrs. Harley JonesMs. Micha JonesJones Walker, LLPHon. Gordon B. KahnMr. and Mrs. George KalarisMr. and Mrs. Michael KaravokirosMs. Jan Davidson KasalMr. Robert B. KohnDr. and Mrs. George KoulianosMr. and Mrs. Joseph KuhnKyser ContractingMs. Lisa KyserMs. Keri LakeMary J. Larkins Charitable FoundationMr. Timothy LeeMs. Chanel LiveoakMr. and Mrs. Jex LuceMr. and Mrs. Robert LuseMr. Gaylord LyonMr. and Mrs. Gaylord LyonLyon, Fry, Cadden Insurance CompanyMr. Sam MaiselMs. Mia ManningMr. and Mrs. Dan MarsonMs. Melissa MasonBen May Charitable TrustMr. Ronnie McCarsonMs. Aaliyah McDanielMs. Makenzie McDanielDr. Lisa McDonoughDr. and Mrs. Robert McGinleyMr. Brenden McGuireMs. Chloe McGuireMr. Ben MeislerMeresys Development CorporationMr. H. Michael MillerMs. Cassandra MistrettaMayer and Arlene Mitchell Charitable FoundationMobile County CommissionMobile Premier Pediatric DentistryMoffett Road Assembly of God ChurchMs. Monique MoonRoberta Mullek Crop Insurance

Mr. and Mrs. Norman NewberryMr. and Mrs. Vernon NewbillNewks EateryNicholas Insulation ServicesMr. and Mrs. Chris OdomThe Orthopaedic GoupMr. Jerry OvesonMr. and Mrs. Alan ParkerMr. and Mrs. Kent PartschMr. Morgan PatrickMr. and Mrs. Chris PattersonMs. Celeste H. PeeblesAlicia Perry, Ph.D.Praise Family ChurchPrecision Tool and GrindingProvidence HospitalPublic Relations Council of Alabama- MobileRedd Pest ControlRegions BankRich’s Car WashDr. Faye RobertsMr. and Mrs. Evan RobinsonMr. James RogersMs. Kathy RogersMr. and Mrs. Evan RosenMr. and Mrs. Lester RoweRussell, Thompson, Butler & Houston, LLPMr. Mark RyanMr. and Mrs. Gregory SaadSaad Development CompanySeibert, Baxter & CompanyMr. Carlos SerranoMr. Michael ShawMr. William ShulmanMr. Casey SmithMs. Deborah SmithSybil H. Smith Charitable TrustSouthern StampingMs. Barbara SpiveyMs. Julia StarrMr. and Mrs. Lonnie StarrMr. Robert StarrMs. Abigail StevensMr. and Mrs. Carson StricklandMr. Jacob SullivanSunbelt FireMr. and Mrs. William SusmanHanes Swingle, M.D.Sybil Smith Charitable TrustThe Sykes FamilyMr. and Mrs. Greg SykesMs. Danielle TapiaMs. Julie Tatonetti-MohlerMr. Barry TaylorMs. Ellen TaylorTerMac ConstructionMs. Martha TissingtonMr. and Mrs. Michael ToddMr. and Mrs. John ToomeyJohn Toomey & Company, Inc.The Joseph Treadwell Charitable FoundationMs. Millie TrullMr. and Mrs. Christian TuckerMs. Kelly TunstallUniversity of South AlabamaMs. Ann Van WychenMr. Heath Van WychenMs. Ann VanderbeekMr. and Mrs. Todd VillarrealMr. and Mrs. Larry VoitVolunteers of AmericaMs. Angela WaitesMr. Kenneth WaitesMr. Bart WelchMr. Sam WelchWells FargoWestminster Presbyterian ChurchMs. Kimberly WhelanMr. Boyd WhighamMr. Timothy WieseWillis of AlabamaMr. Joseph WilsonMr. and Mrs. William Winter

In memory of Myrtice JonesMr. and Mrs. Eric McConnell

IN-KIND GIFTSChrist United Methodist ChurchMr. Randy CopelandThe GapGulf Distributing CompanyMr. Abe Harper

1 Thank you to our friends and supporters. 2The Honor Roll New Preschool Staff

Little Tree Mobile wel-comes two new teachers this school year! Ms. Anne Lapeyrouse and Ms. Kristen Hayes, joins with our veteran teacher, Ms. Kaci Turk.

Scouting at Woody’s Song SchoolThanks to a partnership with Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama, the children of Woody’s Song School are participating in scouting this year. Ms.Tracy Arend and Ms. Angie Cieutat have adapted

a version of scouting tasks and badge opportunities for children on the autism spectrum. The children from each classroom were recent-ly given lessons in archery. This program has opened up a whole new world to our students. We’re so grateful for all of our volunteers that work so hard to make it happen!

Additionally, Sean Bax-ter, the younger brother of Woody’s Song School student, Christopher Baxter recently completed an

Eagle Scout project at the school. As part of his project he raised funds and installed a vegetable garden at the back of the campus, as well as a flag pole which stands at the front of the school. When his work was completed he performed a tradition-al flag-raising ceremony for the children.

Learning Tree Wins at First Annual Charity RunLast fall staff participated in The Charity Run 5k held at the University of South Alabama. The Learning Tree was one of many local nonprofit organizations that benefited from the run. We are especially proud to congratulate Mr. Samson Kipchirchir for winning the race with his blistering 16:15 time! With his help and the help of others, more than $400 was raised!

Back to School Visits to the Art MuseumOne of the many joys of the new school year is the children visiting the Mobile Art Museum every other week. The trips have includ-ed holiday themed activities, such as: creating ghosts for Halloween, making snow-flakes for the Winter Festival, and visiting the children’s favorite…annual electric train display.

Local Merchants provide Gifts and Holiday FunThe Gap and Old Navy orga-nized a very special gift dona-tion for each residential child to make the season bright. Each child received their own tote bag filled with clothes, and a toy that was picked out especially for them. We are grateful for these companies reaching out to our children.

Brimer Plans Final Miles in “Across America” RideHaving completed a little more than 9,600 miles Jerre Brimer will finish a 400 mile section in Florida to complete the 10,000 mile trek. After returning from his cross country route due to a shoul-der injury last July, in January he was diagnosed with pneumonia. Trying to get his strength back he is walking a couple miles every morning and working on plants in his greenhouse at the school. He hopes to be on his bike very soon to finish the 10,000 miles.

His final route will be around Florida; from Everglades City to Miami to Key West, back to Miami and then ending in Fort Pierce. “I am looking to do that in early to mid-March, de-pending on how quickly I get my legs back under me; that will be about 400 miles and put me well over the goal,” said Jerre. Pablo on 92ZEW recently interviewed Jerre on his Sunday morning talk show.

Kristen HayesAnne Lapeyrouse

Autism Legislative Day - Montgomery, ALTuesday, March 11th

“A Night at the Races” - Mobile, ALThursday, April 3rd

Autism Walk - Mobile, ALSaturday, April 5th

“Tiger Trot” 5K - Auburn, ALSaturday, April 12th

Autism: 5K Run for Hope - Anniston, ALSaturday, April 26th

Anniversary Annual Meetingand Awards BanquetDate TBD – late April

4th Annual “Chip in for Autism”Golf Tournament - Mobile, AL

Saturday, September 27th

Resource Development Office205 Lambert Avenue, Suite DMobile, AL 36604

www.learning-tree.org

SAVE THE DATES!

Anniston/Jacksonville256-447-9349

Auburn/Tallassee334-252-0025

Mobile251-649-4420

Resource Development251-331-2633

Development Team FulfilledIn 2012, Sheila Sears was hired as the Resource Development Director to coordinate development activities across the state with the support of a local coordinator in each of the 3 program regions; An-niston/Jacksonville, Auburn/Tallassee, and Mobile. With the recent hiring of Stephanie Weldon for the Auburn/Tallassee region in December, the team is now complete. Teresa Atkins manages the Mobile region joined by Page Norris, with Lisa Ann Spurling in Anniston/Jacksonville. The next objective for the Development Office is to establish a volunteer com-mittee in each region to support the schools.

Lisa Ann Spurling Teresa Atkins

Stephanie Weldon Paige Norris

State Conferences Advance Professional TrainingThe Learning Tee was represented at the Alabama Academic Advisors Conference in Tuscaloosa and the Alabama Applied Behavior Analysis (ALABA) Conference in Birmingham in the fall….among those attending the ALABA conference were Heath-er Jones, Whitney Hester, Ken Atkins, Haily Owen, William Mauldin, Phillip Whatley, Jennifer Wythe, Jamie Logan, Nicole Dieckow, Hannah LaFollette, Brittany Collier, Jenny Dooley, Kacie Myers, Pat Murphy, Brian Findlay, Courtney Grantham, and Leigh Ann Strain. Lisa Ann Spurling coordinated The Learning Tree exhibit table for both conferences with help from Jenny Dooley at the ALABA conference.