FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

For more information, contact:
Steve Hamerdinger, Director, Office of Deaf Services
Phone: (334) 353-4703 Voice
(334) 353-4701 TTY


January 4, 2005

OFFICE OF DEAF SERVICES OPENS MOBILE REGIONAL PROGRAM
Ben Hollingsworth Is Regional Coordinator

MONTGOMERY, AL (January 4, 2005) - Ben Hollingsworth began his duties as
Region IV Coordinator today in Mobile, Alabama. He is based at the
Mobile Mental Health Center.

Region IV includes Mobile, Washington, Clarke, Conecuh, Escambia,
Monroe, Baldwin, Butler, Coffee, Covington, and Crenshaw Counties.
Mental Health Centers in Region IV are: Mobile Mental Health Center,
Southwest Alabama Mental Health Center, Baldwin Mental Health Center and
South Central Alabama Mental Health Center.

Mr. Hollingsworth was previously a Case Advocate for Tennessee
Protection and Advocacy and brings with him experience in working with
diverse agencies to help deaf clients receive appropriate services. Mr.
Hollingsworth has stated that he would like to "work at bringing the
program up to a level that signifies a deep commitment towards the needs
of deaf Alabamians in Region IV."

A certified rehabilitation counselor, Mr. Hollingsworth received his
Masters from the University of Tennessee at Knoxville and his Bachelors
from the University of Maryland. His interests include films,
automobile repair/restoration, and home improvement projects.

The Regional Office is located at 5750-B Southland Drive. Mr.
Hollingsworth can be by email at bhollingsworth@...,


Steve Hamerdinger, Director
Office of Deaf Services
Alabama Department of Mental Health
and Mental Retardation
(334) 353-4701 (TTY)