1. finance
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The
TENNESSEE SCHOOL FOR THE BLIND
Volume 3, Issue 5
January 1, 2015
School Holiday Program Has its Bugz
There have been many a holiday program produced at Tennessee School for the Blind but
never one with so many bugz! Everywhere you
looked there were bugz. Oh... it’s not that the
program didn’t go off without a hitch, after hours
and days and weeks and months of practice!
It’s that the bugz were the ones practicing and
they took over as stars of the show! This year’s
mini-musical, directed by Georgette Seay was
entitled “A Bugz Christmas”. The plot centered
on the bugz busily scurrying around in preparation for their annual Christmas program infestation. A problem arose when the termites
showed up uninvited, as if termites are ever invited, and chewed up the decorations. These
pesky critters even ate up the lights and it’s
frankly a miracle they didn’t turn into lightning
bugs! But therein lies the solution to resolving
their problem. The bugz buzzed around and developed a plan to save the
celebration. And those little
lightning bugs were there,
you might say, to lighten up
the day as they found a new
purpose for being so bright!
With help from some very
special guests, including Elvis, the problems are resolved. Bugz displaying lots
of activity were: Bumble Bee- Woovens Scruggs,
Queen Bee- Nevaeh Valdes, Praying MantisRylan Womack, Mosquitos- Andre Walker and
Lathaniel Phipps, Termites- Donnie Sands,
Leetarian Smith, Cody Grissom, Austin Rogers, KeAunte Smith and Trenton Smith. The
twenty minute long musical included the songs:
A Bugz Christmas, We're Hungry, A Tree
Without Lights, Let Your Best Light Shine,
and The 12
Bugz of
Christmas.
After the bugs
were gone, the
holiday program continued with following performances:
Combined
KeAunte Smith performs with the terclasses of Ms.
mites during the Christmas program.
Blevins, Ms.
Morris and Mr. Hector sang: Jingle Bells,
Christmas is My Favorite
Inside this issue:
time of Year, What Would
You Like for Christmas?,
2
MEMBERS
and Twas The Night Before
PRINCIPAL
3
Christmas The TSB Jazz
5
SENIOR TRIP
Combo played: God Rest
DISHES
Ye Merry Gentleman and
5
Watermelon (Man) For
RECITAL
6
Christmas The TSB Middle
NCCB
6
School Band played: Car6
12 MAGIC
nival of Venice, and Little
LIONS ROAR 7
Drummer Boy The TSB
Tiger Band played: Game
BRUNCH BID
8
of Thrones, Hymn For A
CHORUS
9
Child and Do You Hear
MID-STATE
9
What I Hear? The High
SPOTLIGHT
10
School Chorus sang:
Bright Star Shining, Baby
SPOTLIGHT
11
Born in Bethlehem, Believe,
DELTA GIRLS 12
Let There Be Peace on
OUTPACE
13
Earth, Angelic Christmas
AFTRA
13
Medley, Grown Up Christmas List and A Very Very
FRIENDS
14
Merry Merry Christmas.
EVENTS
14
Roar of the Tiger
New Team Members and Staff Changes
Coming to TSB during the
month of November to be the
new companion for Kalli
Tucker-Kinman is Robin
Fields. Hired by the Metro
School District, Robin
takes the position formally
held by recently married and
departed Debbie Suddarth.
Katina Massingile came to
Robin Fields
TSB as a Youth Service
Worker in the early part of 2013. She has
been promoted to the position of Youth Service
Worker II and takes over
those responsibilities in cottage one. Returning to TSB
in the month of November is
former TSB staff and teacher Hilary Murtagh. It’s great
to once again have Hilary as
part of our team teaching 9th
and 10th grade English.
Robin Sloan recently
Katina Massingile
joined the Clinic staff. With
twenty years in nursing she has been an LPN,
RN BSN and recently obtainined a BS in psychology.
Her array of experience includes: Medical Surgical,
Emergency Room, Oncology, Rehabilitation, Inpatient Psychiatric, Telemetry Step Down
Unit, Ambulatory Clinic,
Case Management, HosHilary Murtagh
pice etc. Robin’s numerous
positions have included Director of Nursing,
Quality Director, Hospital
Supervisor, Shift Supervisor and staff Nurse She is
mother to three children and
has two wonderful grandchildren. The youngest of seven
children, Robin grew up in
Eastern KY, but traveled
extensively for 23 years because of the military. Many
Robin Sloan
moves afforded her the
Page 2
chance to take medical positions strengthening
her medical knowledge and skills. “I love being
a nurse and contributing to society. I believe
every second given to humanity is worth my lifelong effort,” states Robin.
She hopes to “devote the
rest of my nursing efforts on
these most-deserving children at TN School for the
Blind.”
Ms. Christina Sobowale is
a new Youth Service Worker
working the overnight shift in
cottage two. You may not
Christina Sobowale
see her often due to her
hours, but introduce yourself when able. Christina is originally from Nigeria. She migrated to
America in 1995. Married and “ blessed with
three children ages twenty, seventeen and
twelve” she graduated from Middle Tennessee
State University in 2011 with a Bachelor of
Science degree in Health Education. Christina said, “ I love to work with people including
the children and am happy
to be part of the Tennessee
School for the Blind.”
Ms. Amy Stroud is a new
YSW II and is currently positioned in cottage six. Originally from Paducah, Kentucky, she was part of a
military family that moved
around. Besides living in
Amy Stroud
various states, Amy lived
three years in Germany. Much of her life, however, has been lived in California. There she
earned a BA in Psychology at Humboldt State
University. Amy’s move to Tennessee was
from Virginia City, Nevada. During four years
there she was a youth counselor at an inpatient
drug and alcohol treatment center. Today she
continues to work part-time at a drug rehabilitation center in Nunnelly, TN. Amy has completed the Los Angeles marathon and two half marathons in Reno, NV. She loves to camp and attend live music festivals. She “rowed crew” at
HSU and is a member of the adult rowing
league in Nashville. Amy has a strong interest
Volume 3, Issue 5
From the Principal’s Pen
Beginning with the current newsletter, TSB Principal Dr. Susan Brennan will be writing a
monthly column in the Roar of the Tiger newsletter. These informative monthly articles will
allow frequent and direct insight into
your child’s educational process.
Look for them each month to
stay versed in the school
happenings.
January 2015
Hello everyone! It has been
an exciting six months at
TSB. I have learned so much from the wonderful staff and kids. There are great things happening at TSB and I see something new every
day. Some of the things going on around school
that have caught my attention include:
Elementary technology classes learning how
to use iPads to complete a project.
High school students writing and reading
their own poetry during a Poetry Slam in
English class.
Students learning how to become more independent on a daily basis. I always enjoy it when a student tells me they
learned something new.
Life Skills Olympics that made it possible for
all students to participate in athletics.
The way in which everyone at TSB supports
student activities including track, goalball,
wrestling, cheerleading and forensics.
Choral and band performances that have
audiences clapping their hands and singing along to the music.
Student workers demonstrating the ability to
be responsible, reliable, and motivated to
do a good job.
I could go on and on about all of the activities
that take place at TSB and the support that stuPage 3
dents receive from all TSB employees. TSB is a
great place for kids!
Some reminders for families:
Please send students in weather appropriate
clothing. It can be cold when students are
walking in between the cottages and
classroom buildings, as well as getting
on/off the bus.
Take a few minutes to review the inclement
weather policy so you are familiar with
how TSB will respond in case of bad
weather.
If your child will be riding the bus home with
another student or will be off campus with
friends or relatives, please make sure to
send a note or an email. Parents can
email a message to Ms. Kelley at
[email protected] or call her at
615-231-7397.
Best wishes for a healthy and happy new year!
Susan Brennan
Principal
“Like Us” on
Entering the world of “social media” Tennessee
School for the Blind is now on Facebook. Beginning in 2004 and headquartered out of Menlo,
California, this online social media service
currently boasts over 1.32 billion monthly users.
According to comScore, Facebook is the leading social networking site based on “monthly
unique visitors.” Any associates and friends of
TSB involved in social media are encouraged
to check out the new connection and if you see
what you like then, “like us”. This latest media
connection will keep people connected and informed about happenings at the school. Reach
us at: www.facebook.com/pages/TennesseeSchool-for-the-Blind/441068412591832
Roar of the Tiger
Senior Trip: A Challenge Accepted and Enjoyed
TSB seniors and staff pose for a photo with the staff of Challenge Aspen.
In the wee early hours of Friday, December
12th, students and staff at TSB were busy in
final preparations for a 3:30 am departure from
campus. Boarding the school vans, a total of
sixteen students and staff members were
headed to the Nashville International Airport.
A 5:35 am flight headed to Denver’s International Airport, the largest by area airport in
America, would mark the beginning of a
week-long adventure unlike any that the kids
have ever experienced. Many of the seniors
have never been on a plane or flown before,
and the plane experience created it’s own
sense of adventure and euphoria. From Denver, the students embarked on a four hour
charter bus trip covering the last two hundred
and twenty miles of the journey, landing them
in Snowmass Village. Snowmass Village,
home to the Snowmass Ski Area, is a
25.6 mile area near the
town of Aspen, Colorado.
The TSB seniors and
staff had been invited to
this location as guests of
Challenge Aspen. Challenge Aspen specializes in “making possibilities for people with
disabilities” through a series of year round pro-
grams. This organization is “dedicated to impacting lives by presenting meaningful recreational,
educational and cultural experiences to individuals faced with cognitive or physical challenges.” In
the winter, Challenge Aspen offers all levels of
recreational skiing and snowboarding instruction
for individuals ages four and up who have a physical or cognitive disability. TSB’s relationship with
the organization has grown through the years as
has anticipation from underclassman longing to
go on the trip. Throughout their time there, TSB
students received the full attention of the staff as
they were the only group on the agenda. Students received one-on-one instruction at times
and also skied with “buddies” having advanced
skiing experience. One evening the entourage
traveled to Boogies, a fifties style diner in Aspen.
The eleven student adventurers making the journey were: Emily Bowers, Chris Cook, Jesse
Gimple, George Guerrero, Kayla Heinicke,
Alyssa Loggins, Jacob Mitchell, Stephen Owen, Kayla Painter, Justin Reagan, and Maleka
West. School staff accompanying the students
were: Julia Hedrick (coordinator), Jody Baker
(class sponsor), Patrick Hector, Christina von
Reyn, and Marilissa Salyer (nurse). Challenge
Aspen’s website is: www.challengeaspen.org.
Page 4
Volume 3, Issue 5
Dishes that Whet the Appetite and Cut Out the Calories
One could get
the impression
that Monica Leister’s art students have been
hungry for some
art! However it
might be said
that it seems to
be everyone
who is “eating it
up.” In overlook
ing the food and
menu at The Ce
ramic Café one
staff member
was overheard
saying “This
stuff is amaz
ing.” Check
out these wonderful, tastefully created
pieces of ceramic art and I think you’ll agree!
Left: French
Pastry with
Strawberries by
Abbey Pace
Right: Pizza with French
Fries by Rickey Meadows
Below: Waffles and Strawberries by Hope Monzalvo
Right: Cheesecake with Fruit
Topping by Elle Tuetken
Above:
Cupcake by
Isabella Martinez,
Right Below: Bridal Cake
by Corgan Waters
Above: Thai Soup by Courtney
Wilson
Above Top: Hors d’oeuvres
Platter by Austin Mayes
Above: Steak with Mashed Potatoes and Corn by Tim Jones
Left: Spaghetti and Meatballs
by Abby Claxton
Page 5
Roar of the Tiger
Winter Solo Recital Performances Streamed Live
On Thursday, December 11th at 1:30pm, nineteen TSB students showcased their musical talents during performances in the Winter Solo Recital. The program, streamed live from the
school auditorium by way of Livestream.com is
still available for viewing. Access is available
from the school website. Performances during
the recital included the following:
Samantha Leech- Willie and Tillie
Stephanie WilsonBreath of Heaven
Mogan Burns- Pas
De Deux (from
The Nutcracker
Ballet)
TaMyah JordanJingle Bells
Alexandria
Williams- Make
Up Your Mind
Brittany Wolfe- Rockin’ Around the Christmas
Tree
Maleka West- What a Mighty God We Serve
Tori Harrison- Awesome God
Corban Galaviz- I Will Always Love You
Alyssa Loggins & Justin Reagan- One Small
Child
Abbey Pace- O Holy Night
Elle Tuetken- I Wonder as I Wander
Brittany Wolfe- O Come All Ye Faithful
Alyssa Loggins- Only Hope
Alexandria Williams- What Child is This?
Demi Richards- Come, Now is the Time to Worship
Kayla Painter- Chromatic Rag
Corgan Waters- I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing
Carrie Carlisle- O Holy Night
Josiah Hearn-The Swan by Camille Saint Saens
Make plans now to attend the next student recital
in person at TSB. The spring recital will be held
on the 3rd of June.
Josiah Hearn performing in the piano.
NCCB Performs at TSB
It was certainly as joyous and festive occasion
as the Nashville Community Concert Band
(NCCB) took stage along with the TSB Music
Department to begin ringing in the holiday
season. The evening concert on Monday December 8th was attended by community members, friends and members of the TSB family.
Nashville Community Concert Band members range in age from their 20's to their mid
80's and represent many professionals including:
lawyers, physicians, teachers, retirees, band directors, bankers, air traffic controllers, social
workers, housewives, and others. The highlight
of the evening came when the Nashville Community Concert Band, TSB Tiger Band, and
the TSB Choral Ensemble performed a rendition of "Do You Hear What I Hear.”
“Christmas Magic” we called it, when in 2002 a
call came from Ron Grizzard, of Grizzard Realty
and Consulting, asking if somebody could
come pick up some toys for the kids at TSB. Of
course we went, all excited, and packed our vehicles as toys spilled all over us. The sounds of
musical toys ringing out and baby dolls giggling
surrounded us all the way back to school! In the
years that have followed, Ron recruited many
friends and neighbors in his enthusiasm and
campaign to shower the TSB students with
Christmas love. He distributed TSB Christmas brochures among his clients who then
brought presents for the children. Adding their
gifts to ones he purchased, Ron was assured
there would be enough gifts for everyone; some
to be left in their school cottages, and others to
be sent home for Christmas morning! On this
the “Twelfth Year of Magic” we send out a heartfelt “Thank-You and Merry Christmas” to the
force behind the magic… the magic that started
Carriecall
Carlisle
performs
with the-Pat
Mid-State
Choir.
with a simple
from
a friend!
Galvin
Page 6
Volume 3, Issue 5
Lions Day Another Roaring Success at TSB
A measurable level of excitement mixed with the
crisp, chilly, Tennessee air on that second Friday
in December. If you have been a student at TSB
for over a year, you know what that day is… It’s
Lions Day at TSB! The Christmas tradition
started in December of 1957, when the Franklin
Road Lions Club gave each student a crisp
new $2 bill. In 1959, the school was adopted by
the Lions as the state’s first Multi-District Project. Since then, the Lions Tennessee School
for the Blind Fund LTSBF has assisted
innumerable students to a brighter
future. The LTSBF supports the
following five programs for the
TSB Tigers:
Left: A
member of
the Leo
Club hands
TSB student Carlos
Medrano a
$50 gift for
Christmas.
The Boy and Girl Scout Programs, The Student Enrichment Program, The Low Vision
Assistance Program, The Student Work Program, and The Christmas Gift Program. The
Christmas Gift tradition occurs each year on
the second Friday in December. So on Friday
December 12th, multiple Lions and Leo Clubs
from across the state meet at TSB.
Their message was simple: “Happy
Holidays, we love you, and here
is a $50 Christmas gift.” After
the TSB chorus and band
played, it was time for the
lions club presentations to
begin. Lions Club member
and TSB Superintendent
Emeritus Ralph Brewer asked if any of the clubs present
had any money for the cause.
Checks were turned in
Above: Lion and TSB Superintendent Emeritus Ralph Brewer
brings laughter and excitement as he addresses the crowd.
ranging from $50 to $2,000. It was easy for a
moistened spot to develop in one’s eye in thinking of the resolve behind the gathering and giving of these funds. The world’s “largest service
club organization”, like Rudolph, “will go down in
history” for once again leaving a heartfelt impact
on the lives and futures of each of our students.
Here is a big THANKS to the Lions Clubs of
Tennessee for again lavishing your time and
treasures on those so precious to us.
Superintendent Martin Monson welcomed the Lions Clubs to TSB and introduced the TSB Choral Ensemble.
Page 7
Roar of the Tiger
Friends of TSB and Bob Parks Realty Host Super Event
One of the most sensational, exhilarating events
each fall in support of the students at Tennessee
School for the Blind is what has become
know as The Brunch and Bid. Encompassing so
much more than an benefit auction, this event
brings students, businesses, and community
members together over tasty food and a wonderful cause. Fourteen years ago, after seeing the
need and meeting with Friends of TSB, Bob
Parks Realty made a decision to make a dif-
hosted the event.
Cheerleaders and
the ROTC from Wilson Central High
came and gave their
assistance. Auctioneers from Bob
Parks Auction DiStudents Alyssa Loggins and Alvision called the
exandria Williams pose with Santa
live auction and a
and Wilson Central Cheerleaders.
silent auction was
also held. Many folks including TSB staff donated food and desserts. Legacy Lending and Solomon Park gave gifts to the chorus. TSB
teacher Jody Baker served as the liaison to the
Friends of TSB Board of Directors. Months of
ference. Through the years their dedication and preparation and gathering items for auction
involvement has evolved into an event like no
brought a great variety of items together. The
other. The funds generated through their “care
live auction included:
in action” has increased the resources through
- Canoe built by TSB students and Mr. Johns
which Friends of TSB’s has impacted the lives of - Art by Mr. Oldham, president of Friends of TSB
many students. Many thanks goes to Michele
- An autographed limited edition print from
Friedrichsen of Bob Parks Realty Mt. Juliet OfPhil Ponder
fice, for years of service as the head of
- A book from Country Music Legend Alan Jackthe Bob Parks Brunch & Bid Committee. The son, made for his family only, with all the
2014 Brunch and Bid for Friends of TSB was
photography done by Alan. Alan gave Friends
held at 11:00 a.m. on November 20th. Staff from of TSB a copy for this event.
Bob Parks Realty decorated and transformed - Donations from Country Music & TV Star Brad
the 1st floor of the Mt. Juliet Hampton Inn and
Paisley
Suites, who donated the use of their space.
-An autographed guitar and CDs of all the
Meeting spaces with beautifully laid out auction
awarded music of Miranda Lambert, Country Mutables, a delicious buffet selection and an incred- sic CMA Famous Female Country Music Artist
ible dessert table were all prepared. Lisa Patton, of 5 years in a row.
weather personality from WKRN TV2 graciously In addition, paintings by TSB students Corgan
Waters and Miranda Sullivan were auctioned
thanks to Monica Leister.
Proceeds from past events have supported
many projects benefiting the TSB students.
These include the recent renovations to the
school bowling alley
making it functional
and accessible to all
students. To find out more and how you can become involved, access the Friends of TSB website at: http://www.friendsoftsb.org
Carrie Carlisle performs with the Mid-State Choir.
Lisa Patton speaks with TSB senior Morgan Burns
Page 8
Volume 3, Issue 5
TSB Chorus Ambassadors of Great Music and Cheer!
For nearly two decades the music students at
the Tennessee School for the Blind have learned
that the beginning of the winter season correlates with the beginning of three M’s…music,
miles and memories. Shortly after her arrival in
1996, Choral Director Judy Denning was extended invitations and began scheduling dates for
musical appearances during the holiday season.
Nineteen years later the tradition continues and
builds with as much excitement and enjoyment
as ever. This two-way road affords the choral ensemble the opportunity to learn and perform in
various settings and gives the audiences the opportunity to enjoy the showcasing of the students’ talents. Twenty two students make up
this year’s choral ensemble. They are: Samantha Leech, Abbey Pace, Cody Thomas, Alexandria Williams, Holly Angel, Carrie Carlisle,
Lizzy Harris, Leighton Ramsey, Demi Richards, Maleka West, Stephanie Wilson, Brittany Wolfe, Josiah Hearn, Brandt Shipley and
senior members Morgan Burns, Jared Carver,
Shelby West, Kayla Heinicke, Kayla Painter,
Justin Reagan, Alyssa Loggins, and Emily
Bowers. The group had the following performances:
11/10/14- “Concert in a Cave” at Cumberland
Caverns: McMinnville Lions Club
11/11/14- Veterans Day Program at TSB
11/11/14- Family Night Chic-fil-A, Hermitage
11/19/14- Lincoya Baptist Church Donelson
11/20/14- Bob Parks Realty– Brunch and Bid
12/04/14- Stones River Womens’ Club
12/04/14- Lafayette Lions Club
12/08/14- Joined Community Band during
Christmas Concert at TSB.
12/10/14- Donelson Church of the Nazarene
12/11/14- Andrew Johnson State Office Bld.
12/12/14- Lions Club Day at TSB
12/17/14- Carrick Glenn Assisted Living
12/19/14- TSB Holiday Program
Above: A unique and "first time event" for the chorus was performing inside Cumberland Caverns for
the McMinnville Lions Club.
Carlisle Chosen for Mid-State Choir
TSB junior Carrie Carlisle was chosen by and performed
recently with the Tennessee Mid-State Women’s Choir.
The evening of euphonious and sometimes even celestial
sounding music took place on November 18 at 6:30pm. The
acoustically vibrant auditorium of First Baptist Church of
Nashville, on 8th Avenue South, was the setting. The
concert was free and open to the public. Congratulations
Carrie, your accomplishment is pleasing to our ears!
Page 9
Carrie Carlisle
Roar of the Tiger
December Spotlight On TSB Staff
Joe Gray Did you know that TSB has a
gold medal Olympian in its
midst? Joe Gray, Education Assistant to Jay Humphreys, and
assistant wrestling coach, was
on the Track and Field team that
represented the United States in
China at the 2008 Olympic
Games. The team took two
Joe Gray
gold medals! Mr. Gray also
holds the distinction of being nationally and
world ranked as a sprinter. His best time – the
100 meter dash in 10.98 seconds and 200 meter
dash in 22 seconds. Joe began his running career right here at TSB, graduating from these
hallowed halls in 2005. He ran track and was a
member of the wrestling team, which was actually his sport of choice at the time. At 16, Mr. Gray
participated in a national wrestling competition
held in Florida, where he placed third in the nation in the freestyle wrestling tournament. From
TSB, he was recruited to run track at Tennessee State. Within the year, he qualitied for the
USA Track and Field Team and took off for
the Olympic Training Center in San Diego, California. For eight years, Mr. Gray participated
in meets all over the world, traveling from Brazil
to China and places in between! If you know
anything about track, you’ll understand what an
honor it was for him to be selected to the USA
4x100 Meter Relay Team 5 times in the Penn
Relays in Pennsylvania “ This is one of the
biggest track meets in the world,” said Mr. Gray,
in which the top USA teams and the top world
teams compete. “My team took first place!”
While he still runs, a high ankle sprain that left
him in rehabilitation for over eight months, took
Joe out of the competition. “ I never quite got
back to the form I needed to be in to compete,”
he said. “I do miss it.” Still committed to fitness,
Mr. Gray runs for his own pleasure and
works out six days a week. He is also in the process of converting his basement into a home
gym where he hopes to offer personal training.
While working through rehab, “I had a conversation with Frank Alexander (former TSB Athletic
Page 10
Director). He encouraged Mr. Gray to come back
to TSB to work with the track team, telling him
what a great asset he would be to the school. “I
helped one year and came back the next,” said
Mr. Gray, reuniting with his TSB track coach,
Mr. Joiner. “One day I found out there was an
opening, so I filled out an application, had the
interview that afternoon, and started working the
following Monday.” That was four years ago. He
and Mr. Joiner still coach track together. TSB
brought Joe another surprise a few years later.
He kept hearing a familiar name mentioned in
the roster of new teachers. “I just kept telling myself, it couldn’t be.” But when Jay Humphreys
walked through the door last summer, the reunion of a long ago friendship ensued. Mr. Gray
and Mr. Humphreys, who graduated from DCA,
were practice partners in wrestling when both
were in high school. The two schools participated as one team. “I hadn’t seen him since we
were in school together,” said Mr. Gray. And now
they are partnered once again as teachers and
coaches. “I really enjoy teaching and coaching
the kids,” said Mr. Gray. “I want them to know
that being visually impaired is not a stumbling
block, but a stepping up – to learn to advocate
for yourself. As someone with a visual impairment, I know firsthand that you can take help,
but not sympathy. I think my own life experiences help the students.” Joe has returned to
school himself. He attends MTSU and will graduate with a degree in behavior and health in 2016.
Aside from working out, Mr. Gray loves to spend
time with his close-knit family, especially his 8month old niece, Megan Nicole, whom he unabashedly plans on spoil rotten! He also likes to
cook and eat. In the cooking department, his current favorites are grilled tilapia with roasted veggies, and a special kale salad. When going out,
he likes to find local restaurants. He highly recommends Five Points Pizza, Jenny’s Splendid
Ice Cream, and Eddie’s Barbecue. While traveling with the Olympic team he had the opportunity to try lots of different cuisines. Brazil proffered the best he’s ever tasted; and Turkey the
worst. With regard to the latter, he admits he
wasn’t sure what he was eating on several occa-
Volume 3, Issue 5
December Spotlight On TSB Staff (cont.)
sions, but thinks it might have been goat – a
very old one! One thing you might not know
about Mr. Gray is that from about 7 to 10 years
of age, he was terrified of Christmas trees. One
Christmas, Joe was crawling under the tree
to retrieve a package, when his sneaky older
brother reached from behind and shook the tree.
“I was sure that Christmas trees had monsters in
them,” he said. “It took me awhile to figure out it
was him.”
Tambra Fore- In the Spotlight
is Tambra Fore, second shift
nurse in TSB’s clinic. Tambra
likes the school so much she
keeps coming back! “I’ve been
at TSB for about 16 years off
and on,” said Ms. Fore. She left
at one point to work in the Multiple Sclerosis Clinic at Vanderbilt University Medical Center.
Tambra Fore
“It’s the kids that keep drawing
me back to TSB,” she said. Ms. Fore likes the
atmosphere of the TSB clinic too. “The clinic
staff are a friendly, close-knit group. We work
well together.” Ms. Fore has worked with another
clinic nurse, Marilissa Salyer, affectionately
known as “Sissy,” since 1992. “We used to work
evenings together. She’s a hoot,” said Ms. Fore,
“and will really be missed when she retires.” As
a school nurse, Ms. Fore hands out medications,
takes temperatures, evaluates sick children, provides tube feedings, and gives shots – the latter
being the students least favorite! Despite the
occasional shot, graduated students frequently
come back, or call, just to say hello. “The kids
who have been here since they were little become a part of you,” she said, noting that she
had taken care of one student’s medical needs
since the child was 3 years old. “We become
surrogate mothers – taking care of them when
they don’t feel well.” Ms. Fore has a family of
her own including two boys and their wives, and
two grandsons, Owen and Jeremy. Twin girls,
who were supposed to arrive the 26th of December, came as an early Christmas present on December 8th. Sophia and Khloe, each weighed
over 5 lbs. and are doing well! “My hobby is
spending time being ‘Nana’ to all four,” she said.
When the little ones aren’t available, Ms. Fore
likes to flower garden in the spring and summer,
following in her mother-in-law’s footsteps. She
also serves on a board of their church, The First
Church of God in Mt. Juliet. Reading is another pastime she enjoys, her favorite authors
being Max Lucado and Beth Moore. Ms. Fore
and her husband Carey were married 34 years
in November. “We like to explore and take day
trips, discovering little known places. We just
drive til we find somewhere interesting to stop,”
she said. Many times, “interesting” means antiquing, a hobby of which they are both fond.
One thing you might not know about Ms. Fore, is
that she and her husband raise bird dogs,
Boykin Spaniels. “ They’re a medium-sized
dog – about 25 pounds,” said Ms. Fore. The
breed was developed by hunters in South Carolina in the 1900s to hunt wild turkeys and ducks.
Currently they have three, Smokey, Sugar, and
Pie. Another canine shares the home – a
“Shorkie,” whose name is Razzy. She is much
smaller than the other dogs, but,” says Ms. Fore,
“she is definitely the boss!”
Blake PropstHe’s got music running through
his veins! And so would you if
people like Tammy Wynnette,
Boots Randolph, Charlie
McCoy, and Johnny Cash,
were regular visitors to your
home! Such was the life of
Blake Propst, TSB custodian,
when he moved to Nashville at
Blake Propst
17 from Montgomery, Alabama.
His dad, John Propst, was pianist of 20-years for
Boots Randolph, who made " Yakety Sax" famous in the early 60s. “At various points these
people, and many others, would gather at our
house here in Donelson, which was just up the
street from TSB,” he said. The entire Propst
family was musical. In addition to his dad, his
mother Shelby also played the piano and sang,
and all three boys played various musical instruments. Blake started out on the drums in 5th
grade, graduated to the piano under his father’s
Page 11
Roar of the Tiger
December Spotlight On TSB Staff (cont.)
tutelage, and later took stringed instruments, the
first being the guitar. The Propst family had a
band for a time, “Tennessee Johnny,” which
played in clubs and for private parties around
town. “We even played at TSB about 20 years
ago during an alumni weekend. The Propsts
were very familiar with TSB and visual impairments. John and Shelby met at the Alabama
School for the Blind where they were both
students. Two of their three children had visual
impairments and went to school at TSB for a
time. One of Blake’s brothers carried on the
family’s musicality, touring with a gospel band.
Mr. Propst, however, took a different turn,
helping found “The Lost Generation,” a rock-androll band. Mr. Propst toured with the band all
over the country. The band recorded an album in
Los Angeles titled, “ Why.” You can hear
Blake on that album as he played all the guitar parts. There are also band videos featuring
Propst under the titles “ Her Hair Was Still
Alive” and “ She’s Bad News” on Youtube.
After two years, Blake returned to Nashville to be
with his family. “My son was a teenager at the
time, and I just didn’t want to be away from my
family as much as touring with the band re-
quired. The band, however, is still in existence
today. When the band members went their separate ways, Blake worked with various businesses, one of which was a flooring company. Yet,
still he was surrounded by musical stars. He laid
a floor for Naomi Judd and became friends with
her husband, Larry Strickland, a former singer
with Elvis. The list goes on! Even his wife of 40
years, Cindy, is in the music business as an account representative for Broadcast Music, Inc. in
downtown Nashville. The Propsts share their
home with two felines Cry Baby (“because she’s
always crying,” said Blake) and Bear-Bear. Laying carpet and other types of floors is hard on the
joints. After 20 years, Mr. Propst became part of
the custodial staff at TSB. “I love working here,”
said Mr. Propst. “The people are terrific – friendly
and caring.” But… once a musician, always a
musician. One thing you might not know about
Mr. Propst is that in his spare time, he is
teaching himself to play the upright bass. “You
can learn just about anything on Youtube,” he
said. He is currently undertaking the “slap” technique of playing. But for someone with Blake’s
talent, really… how hard can it be! Perhaps he
should play at TSB again!
Delta Gamma Girls Continue Creating Fun and Memories
Building on a tradition of involvement with TSB,
girls from the Delta Gamma Sorority, at Tennessee Tech recently scheduled an interactive
evening with the students. At 6:00 pm on November 19th, fifteen college students from
Cookeville, TN came bearing enthusiasm,
great ideas and gifts. TSB students from cottages one, two, ten and select students from cottage seven participated. The project for the
evening centered on creating Thanksgiving turkeys. After tracing their hand on paper, adding
googly eyes, coloring, etc…. tail feathers were
glued on the festive birds. Finishing with their
creations, everyone enjoyed refreshments consisting of apple juice and assorted chips.
“Students always love interacting with the Delta
Gamma girls.” said Carolyn Parker, residential supervisor. “This project was lots of fun and
the relationship the kids build with these girls is
one they treasure and look forward to from visit
to visit.” In addition the girls made and gave
Christmas stockings to each residential student on campus! These custom made gifts were
given
to the students during
their holi
day party on
December
10th.
Page 12
Volume 3, Issue 5
TSB Students Outpace Sighted Peers!
Students at the Tennessee School for the Blind
are learning at a phenomenal rate! During the
past four years the students at TSB have been
taking the BASI (Basic Achievement Skills Inventory) and the results show that they are growing
more than one year academically for every year
they are here. The top line on the charts below
show the growth of an average group of students. The bottom line shows the growth of TSB
students. Because the two lines are getting closer together over time, it shows our students are
growing faster than the national norm sample.
While we still have some work to do, these results show that our students are learning more
than their sighted peers and will be achieving at
the same levels by the time they graduate!
Please watch for continued great results as we
expand the testing into grades 9-12!!
Nevaeh
Valdez
AFTRA Brings Bells & Smiles
The American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (AFTRA) lifted the TSB holiday
spirit to a new height on the afternoon of December 16th. With a half dozen instruments and
four dozen singers, the flamboyant group came
caroling into the auditorium to the joy of the student body. Passing out bells on a string, the
students
were encouraged
to ring and
sing along.
The group
performed
many of the olé time Christmas and everyone
present had a jolly good time!
Page 13
Creating Contributing Participating Members of Society
TENNESSEE SCHOOL FOR THE BLIND
115 Stewarts Ferry Pike
Nashville, TN 37214
Phone: 615-231-7300
The Important Thing
about Friends
The important thing about friends is they are nice
I am happy with my friends in my class
I think about my friends before I go to school
If they are blind I help take them somewhere
I am happy when I am a sighted guide
Being happy is helping others
The important thing about friends is they are nice
I have the same classes with them
I like being with them in class all day
I have been with them for about three years.
The important thing about friends is they are nice
Eh Gay
Category 3, Grade 9
The above poetry was created this semester for
an English assignment.
Santa and Mrs. Claus pose with Johnathon and Cody
Grissom for a Christmas photo!
Upcoming Events Calendar
Day
Date
Event
Location
M-F
Dec. 22- Jan.2
Winter Break
-
Su
Jan. 4
Busing Back
TSB
M
Jan. 5
Classes Resume
TSB
Tu
Jan.6
Wrest. with DCA, MLK and Eagleville
DCA
W
Jan. 7
Winter Caroling in the Cottages– TSBEA
TSB Cottages
Th-Sa
Jan 8-10
MTSBOA Mid-State Bands
-
Th-Sa
Jan. 15-17
MTSBOA Mid-State Jazz/Orchestra
-
M
Jan 19
Martin Luther King Jr. Observed School Closed
TSB
Sa
Jan. 24
NCASB Wrestling/Cheer
TSB/DCA
Sa
Jan. 31
MTVA Freshman Honors
-
-
Feb. 2-25
TCAP Writing Assessment
TSB
Sa
Feb. 14
Valentine’s Day
-
F-Sa
Feb. 27-28
University of Louisville Jazz Festival
Louisville Ky.
M- F
Mar. 30 – Apr.10
Spring Break
TSB