Deafweekly January 16, 2008

deafweekly

January 16, 2008
Vol. 4, No. 7

Editor: Tom Willard

Deafweekly is an independent news report for the deaf and hard-of-hearing community that is mailed to subscribers every Wednesday and available to read at www.deafweekly.com. Please visit our website to read current and back issues, sign up for a subscription and advertise. Deafweekly is copyrighted 2008 and any unauthorized use, including reprinting of news, is prohibited. Please support our advertisers; they make it possible for you to receive Deafweekly at no charge.

++++ADV+++++ADV+++++ADV++++

Receive VRS Calls Your Way!

Use VRS? Get a My IP Relay Number and receive relay calls via your PC, wireless device or even VRS!

My IP Relay Number Does It All:

Relay calls available through a PC, wireless devices, or VRS
Make and receive calls anywhere you are connected
Your personal phone number is a local number

Want more information?
1) Go to www.ip-vrs.com, and then
2) click on VRS Call Me to watch a video clip about this!

One Site for All Your Relay Needs
IP-RELAY.com > http://www.ip-relay.com/
IP-VRS > http://www.ip-vrs.com/
MY IP RELAY > http://www.ip-relay.com/myiprelay.html
MY IP RELAY NUMBER > http://www.ip-relay.com/myiprelaynumber.html
WIRELESS IP-RELAY.com > http://www.ip-relay.com/wireless.html

++++ADV+++++ADV+++++ADV++++

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
NATIONAL
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

RHODE ISLAND TEACHERS ASK BOARD CHAIR TO QUIT

More than half of the teachers at the Rhode Island School for the Deaf have voted to ask the chairman of the board of trustees to resign, said The Providence Journal. Twenty of the school's 35 teachers joined the no-confidence vote, unhappy over the disclipline of three teachers last fall and with a general lack of respect. "This is not a factory," said teacher Mary Cummings. "This is not just a school. This is a family." But Marc Gursky said he has no plans to step down, saying the school has lacked a leader with long-term vision and was going through problems that naturally occur with change.

TEXAN TEEN KILLED WHILE CROSSING STREET

A deaf Texas teen lost his life in a tragic car crash Sunday night, January 6, said CBS-7. James Dale Haney, 18, was carrying a bicycle and crossing West County Road when he was hit by a truck. Haney, who was profoundly deaf, died in the hospital a few hours later. An account has been set up at a local credit union to help the family.

OREGON STUDENT SPEAKS AT SISTER'S FUNERAL

A 15-year-old Oregon School for the Deaf student spoke in sign language in front of hundreds of mourners at his sister's funeral Saturday, reported the Statesman Journal. Jose Garcia-Martinez's sister, Alma, died last Tuesday in Portland following a car crash the previous day. Described by speakers as an "angel," 14-year-old Alma "helped and looked out for her older brother Jose," said the report. "Alma loved children of different abilities," said her father, Neftaly Garcia Mendez.

SENTENCE IMPOSED IN FATAL COLORADO CRASH

The deaf parents of a teenager who was killed in a car accident last year were in a Jefferson County, Colo. court last Friday as 16-year-old Alison Bowen was sentenced to 45 days in a youth detention center for her role in the crash. Samara Stricklen, 17, was killed when the car she was riding in was hit head-on by Bowen's SUV, said KWGN. Bowen's sentence also includes two years of probation and 150 hours of community service. Samara's parents, Bill and Michelle Stricklen, were pleased that Judge Brian Boatright ordered 50 hours to be served with deaf-related groups. "I thought, 'Wow, she's going to see our world, what it was like for Samara to grow up in the hearing world and the deaf world," said Michelle Stricklen.

ARIZONA PLANS 125 UNITS FOR DEAF SENIORS

One of America's largest housing communities for the deaf is being planned for Tempe, Ariz., where organizers plan to offer 75 apartments and 50 condos for people 55 and older. Apache ASL Trails would also provide support services, offering an alternative to what Carmen Green of the Arizona Commission for the Deaf calls the "lonely barriers" at regular senior centers. Each unit would contain design and technology that add $8,000 to the price, said Apache ASL Trails' asset manager Judy Leiterman. Wisconsin development company Cardinal Capital Management Inc. plans to move in the first residents as early as Spring 2009, said The Arizona Republic, but the $25 million project must still be approved by the Tempe City Council.

COUNSELING FIRM GETS HAND SLAPPED BY NAD

A company that allegedly refused to serve a hearing child because his parents are deaf agreed to a settlement with the U.S. Department of Justice, said a National Association of the Deaf news release, The company, which provides behavioral counseling and psychological services, agreed to pay $7,500 and modify its policies to provide auxiliary aids and services. (Both the company and the family went unnamed.) The moral, said NAD attorney Michael Stein: "Health care providers cannot refuse to treat patients because a patient or family member is deaf or hard of hearing."

DEAF WELCOME CENTER OPENS IN PENNSYLVANIA

The nation's first Deaf Welcome Center opened in eastern Pennsylvania with a reception on December 1, said the Times News. Located about 75 miles northwest of Philadelphia in Lehighton, the center features a shopping area, art gallery and TV studio. Future plans include workshops, classes and a childcare area. "I am hoping that this center is the first of many deaf welcome centers across the country and the world," said Theressa DeBois, CEO of the Deaf Welcome Foundation. She is looking for volunteers, grants and donations, offering a range of sponsorship opportunities. For example, $5,000 will allow a business to film a 30-minute infomercial at the center, something DeBois says is worth more than twice as much in studio costs alone.

LETTER: CONSIDER COSTS OF TELEVISING MEETINGS

"Accessibility is not a luxury, not optional and not an excuse," said Rick Kottler, executive director of Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services of the Treasure Coast Inc., in a letter printed January 8 in TCPalm. Kottler was responding to a previous letter that concerned a proposal to start televising meetings of the Martin School Board. Kottler noted that 22,000 people in Martin County have a hearing loss and they "need these broadcasts to be accessible, and that means they must be closed-captioned. This comes at a cost that is not cheap." If the board is to televise its meetings, said Kottler, "it will require careful planning and consideration of the cost."

++++ADV+++++ADV+++++ADV++++

We are deaf-owned and our deaf employees understand what you want from VRS. Choose ViableVRS:

PC/Mac: download Viable Vision, the only VRS softphone to offer DVR and the ability to show pictures and work documents on your screen

VP: dial ViableVRS.TV on any videophone and get our friendly and skilled interpreters

Don’t stop there! Personalize with a Viable Screen Name; access your speed dial list, recorded calls, and calling preferences anywhere you use Viable Vision.

Check us out at www.viable.net for more information. Choose ViableVRS.

++++ADV+++++ADV+++++ADV++++

DONE YOUR HOLIDAY SHOPPING?

15% OFF ON ALL ITEMS, ONLY AT BuyASL.com!

* YOU'RE PREGNANT: WHAT TO EXPECT DVD *
This three-DVD series guides women through pregnancy. Presented in American Sign Language, with voice-overs and captions. $249.99

*BUY "DUMMY HOY A DEAF HERO" AND OWN IT!
A DOCUMENTARY MOVIE ONLY $15.99!*

* HAVE YOU EVER SEEN...? An ASL Handshape DVD/Book *
Have You Ever Seen...? is a whimsical children's book with 44 commonly used American Sign Language handshapes. The colorful illustrations also incorporate Deaf culture/community information. Includes DVD. $49.99 (reg $85)

*CHECK OUT THE SPECIAL DEAL! GO TO http://www.buyasl.com/catalog/specials.php

++++ADV+++++ADV+++++ADV++++

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
INTERNATIONAL
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

ASSAULT COSTS NEW ZEALANDER FOUR MONTHS

A deaf rugby player in New Zealand was sentenced to four months in prison after pleading guilty last Thursday to assaulting a woman, said the Taranaki Daily News. Wiremu Albert Raana, 23, had been warned earlier by Judge Allan Roberts that he faced prison time after a series of incidents that included a burglary charge in September and an attack on two probation officers in October. Raana admitted to assaulting the woman, defense attorney Barry Henderson said, but claimed he had used an open hand. Said Judge Roberts: "I'm quickly coming to the conclusion you have a problem with women."

LONDON-TO-PARIS BICYCLE FUNDRAISER SET FOR JUNE

The British charity RNID is organizing a bicycle ride between London and Paris to raise money for its services for deaf people. Those who wish to cycle the 186 miles between the two capitals will need to pay about $200 to register and raise $2,000 in donations. (A 15% discount on registering is offered through January 31.) The trip runs from June 27 to 30 and will follow the route of the Tour de France, passing through "historic towns, sleepy villages and rolling countryside," said an RNID web page. Those seeking a new challenge should "use your pedal power to change the world for deaf and hard of hearing people!" said the RNID's Caroline Jupe.

GRANDMOTHER DENIED IMPLANT SURVIVES HOUSE FIRE

An elderly woman in Worcester, England who was rejected for a cochlear implant by the NHS says she could have died in a house fire because she could not hear the smoke alarm. Jean Jessop, 77, was in bed with the flu last Friday and her husband and grandson were out shopping when a fire started in the utility room of her townhouse. "What are you doing here?" she said to firefighters when they entered her bedroom, alerted by a neighbor. Now Jessop is furious that the government won't pay for her implant, saying she was told they are available only to those under 18. "If it had been a more serious fire I would have been burned to a crisp," she said in the Worcester News.

GROUP RELEASES DRAFT OF LONDON-BASED PLAN

Three groups in London have developed a plan to create a city-wide organization supporting deaf and disability groups. According to a post from London Councils, consultants Dominic Church and Sue Maynard-Campbell surveyed several groups to see what kind of organization people need and would support. A report of their recommendations is now available on the Internet in MS Word and PDF format and comments are welcome, although this Friday (January 18) is the deadline.

DEAF BROTHER INSPIRES SCOTTISH STAR

Scottish musician KT Tunstall says she wants to write music for her profoundly deaf brother, Daniel. "I've always wanted to ... find out scientifically what would be really pleasing to him," said Tunstall, 32, in The Cheers. "He loves beats." Daniel, 28, got a cochlear implant a few years ago and has started to join KT on stage during her shows. "He played drums on stage at my last party," said Tunstall. "He is inspiring, he has absolutely flown in the face of adversity."

NIGERIANS PROTEST PLAN TO MOVE SCHOOL

Teachers and students from a Nigerian school for the deaf staged a peaceful protest last Thursday over a government plan to relocate their school from Ikere-Ekiti to Ikoro. Students carried signs with statements such as "Ikoro is not our wish" and "Transfer is not the solution to education problem," reported This Day (Lagos), while teachers used interpreters to talk with newsmen. The new location is not properly equipped, they said, and the move might force the school "into extinction." A government representative promised to share their message with the Deputy Governor and said that some of the protesters may be asked to help craft a new plan.

CHINESE TEEN ESCAPES GANG OF THIEVES

A deaf teen in China who was forced to steal for a gang of thieves managed to escape when gang members were having a drinking party, said the Sanxia Evening News. The 17-year-old, known as Guangyang, went to Yichang seeking a job he found on the Internet but was forced into the gang. He tried to leave several times before his recent escape. With police on the case, Guangyang refused to go home because he wants to wait for another boy who is still being held by the gang.

ART AUCTION TO HELP KIDS LEARN TO SPEAK

Fifty artworks will be sold to support the Joseph Gualandi School of the Hearing-Impaired in Manila, Philippines via a website and a live bidding on February 9. "Love Out Loud, an Art Auction to Give Deaf Kids a Voice" is designed to impart the message that "the ability or inability to speak spells the difference between empowerment and isolation," said the Philippine Daily Inquirer. The school's recent Language Week program featured a "robotic-sounding" girl who was able to say, "I love you, Mama." The girl's parents and other witnesses, said the report, "were reduced to tears and considered it a miracle."

++++ADV+++++ADV+++++ADV++++

Sorenson IP Relay™ expands communication possibilities for deaf and hard-of hearing individuals by enabling free text-to-speech relay calls with any standard telephone user in the U.S. Sorenson IP Relay calls can be initiated by visiting the Web site at www.siprelay.com from a personal computer, or can be made with a Sidekick, Blackberry, Trço or other mobile device. A trusted Sorenson Communications Assistant (CA) instantaneously facilitates the conversation between the Sorenson IP Relay user and a friend, doctor or business associate. Sorenson IP Relay calls are free for deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals.

++++ADV+++++ADV+++++ADV++++

WRAD is happy to present an exciting 8-day cruise to Mexico visiting Cabo San Lucas, Mazatlan, and Puerto Vallerta leaving out of Los Angeles on Sunday October 26, 2008 and return on Sunday November 2, 2008.

Here is the sample itinerary- Day 1- Los Angeles leaving at 5pm, Day 2- Cruising, Day 3- Arrive Cabo San Luas, Mexico at 10:30am and leave at 6pm, Day 4- Arrive Mazatlan, Mexico at 8am and leave at 5:30pm, Day 5- Arrive Puerto Vallerta, Mexico at 8am and leave at 8pm, Day 6- Cruising/ WRAD Deaf and Hard of Hearing Halloween Ball on the ship, Day 7- Cruising, and Day 8- Arrive back to Los Angeles at 7am.

Sign Language interpreters/ CART providers onboard, Entertainment with Deaf and Hard of Hearing Performers including the famous Halloween Costume Ball by GINO and Bruce Gross. Prices start at $380 plus taxes and port fees and tips.

JOIN US!!!! CALL NOW!!!! to make a cabin reservation.....1-800-419- 0460 (Voice only) For deaf people call through the Relay or Email- wradcruise@gmail.com. Call Bruce Gross for more information at VP 661-943-8879 or brucegross@aol.com.

Prices are subject to availability and can change anytime. The space is limited and is selling fast. To secure your cabin deposit of $250 per person is required at the time of booking. http://wradcruise.googlepages.com/ is the website to see photos of the ship.

++++ADV+++++ADV+++++ADV++++

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
LIFE & LEISURE
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

PARENTS START FOUNDATION TO HELP ARKANSAS SCHOOL

More than 60 students at the Arkansas School for the Deaf enjoyed a special Christmas thanks to the "Angel Wings Foundation," a project started in November by two parents. Angel Smith and Christopher Fear are committed to helping all deaf children at the school, said Today's THC. "There's not enough government support for these children and for food and clothing and for school supplies," said Smith. With local business owners responding positively to donation requests, all children received shoes, coats, toys and a shopping spree at Wal-Mart. "I feel it's real important to give what I have," said Fear, "and I want to teach my daughter to do the same."

FAMILY PROFITS FROM SIGN LANGUAGE CRAZE

Leah Coleman's parents cried when they learned she was deaf at 14 months old, said the Deseret Morning News, but Leah, now 10, became a celebrity who helps other children and families learn sign language through public television programs and DVDs. When Leah was 4, her mother, Rachel -- frustrated at seeing her daughter left out -- began holding sign language story time at Leah's preschools. "Right away kids started coming up to her signing 'play' and 'friend,'" said Rachel. A short DVD she and her sister Emilie made to teach friends and family to sign met with a great response and led the sisters to form Two Little Hands Productions. Since 2002 the pair have come out with 26 DVDs and the "Baby Signing Time" series, as well as their own PBS show, Signing Time!, which stars Leah and her cousin, Alex Brown.

BLENDED FAMILY MAKES NEWS IN ARIZONA

Tucson, Ariz. residents Lisa and Jonathan Chuinard Hepner "felt called to adopt," said the Arizona Daily Star, and specifically wanted to adopt deaf children. Jonathan, 32, is deaf and a physical therapist; Lisa, 36, can hear and is a sign language interpreter. Last March, Lisa traveled to Ethiopia to bring home Amira, 7, and Milan, 4, both deaf and not biological siblings. In August, she went to China to bring back MeiLi, 2, also deaf. The parents were touched when Jonathan's co-workers threw a baby shower after MeiLi's arrival, and plan to maintain their children's cultures, dressing in Ethiopian garb and celebrating Chinese New Year.

FLORIDA COUNTY GIVES OUT WEATHER RADIOS

Deaf residents of Osceola County, Fla. will receive weather radios this week from the county Office of Emergency Management. The radios, which feature strobe lights, come from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Staff demonstrated the radio's features earlier this week, said the Orlando Sentinel, and planned to distribute them at the Osceola County Emergency Operations Center in Kissimmee during specific weekday hours.

LIONS CLUB GIVES PLAYGROUND $40,000 MAKEOVER

Students at the Oralingua School of the Hearing Impaired in Whittier, Calif. are enjoying $40,000 worth of new playground equipment after the Whittier Host Lions Club repaired and improved the school's dilapidated play area in November. The playground hadn't been renovated in 25 years, said the Whittier Daily News, but the Lions Club, which normally contributes $2,500 a year, had an unusually successful fundraising campaign and decided to commit $46,000 to the school over the next two years. Children at the school, which has 60 students ranging in age from 2 weeks to 11 years, are "just beside themselves," said school director Elisa Roche.

++++ADV+++++ADV+++++ADV++++

Big Inventory Reduction Sale at Harris Communications

Check out the huge savings now available during Harris Communications' January Inventory Reduction Sale. Products include a variety of equipment, books, DVDs, videos and novelties including:

-- You Might Be a Sign Language Interpreter If...(B809), regularly $7.95, now only $4.95!
-- American Freedom Speeches (BVT180AA), regularly $149.95, now only $109.95!
-- Mouth Morphemes (VT910), regularly $49.95, now only $30.00!
-- ILY Fanny Pack (N192), regularly $14.95, now only $10.95!
-- Sidekick Mobo Eclipse Case (HC-SK-EC-BK), regularly $19.95, now only $9.95!

Sales are based on limited stock levels. Go to: http://www.harriscomm.com/link/?www.harriscomm.com?sr=dw or contact us at mailto:info@harriscomm.com.

++++ADV+++++ADV+++++ADV++++

W i r e l e s s Sprint VRS
Connect anywhere wirelessly.

> Plug in a high-speed broadband (EVDO) card into your laptop.
> Use web camera from your laptop.
> Access www.sprintvrs.com wirelessly.
> No internet cable connection required.
> Communicate using your webcam.
> Freedom like nothing else!

To download a 2-page PDF including specifications, go to: www.sprintrelaynews.com/pdf/WirelessSprintVRS_web.pdf

Services:
www.sprintvrs.com
www.sprintrelay.com
www.sprintrelaystore.com

++++ADV+++++ADV+++++ADV++++

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
WORKING WORLD
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

FLORIDA FORMS TASK FORCE ON ACCESS TO COURTS

Access to the legal system has evolved in the 30 years since a judge asked, "Can't we just yell a little louder?," attorney Hugh Cotney told the Jacksonville (Fla.) Daily Record, "but there is still a lot of work to do." Cotney, who has represented deaf clients for more than 30 years, is the Florida Bar representative on the new Legal System Accessibility Task Force, formed to tackle deaf-access-related issues in the legal system. The task force is co-chaired by Sharon Caserta of Jacksonville Area Legal Aid, and Lisa Shaefermeyer of the Florida Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf and contains numerous other representatives. Based in Jacksonville, it will meet four times a year.

BUSINESS BOOMING FOR INTERPRETING FIRM

The Syracuse (N.Y.) Post Standard recently profiled sign-language interpreter Theresa Slater, who has "parlayed her passion for her profession into a rapidly growing business." Slater is owner of Empire Interpreting Service LLC, a company she started in 2003 that provides interpreters in courts, schools, hospitals, churches and other locations throughout New York and Pennsylvania. Sales have doubled every year and Empire now has six employees and 129 interpreters on call. The company opened a Syracuse office in early 2007 and plans to have a branch in New York City by the end of this year.

AOL OFFERS REAL-TIME INSTANT MESSAGING

AOL announced this week that it is testing a feature targeted to deaf users that would allow instant messaging in real time. Developed in collaboration with Gallaudet University and the University of Wisconsin-Madison, the new feature allows users to see each letter as it is typed instead of waiting for the whole message to be composed and sent. "This is a big win for AOL and the deaf community," said Tom Wlodkowski, AOL's director of accessibility. To access the feature, download the latest beta version 6.8 at http://beta.aol.com and then click on "Actions" and then "Real-Time IM" from within an instant message window.

SOUTH DAKOTA GOES ONLINE FOR INTERPRETERS

With three deaf students and only two interpreters, Aberdeen (S.D.) Central High School went to a back-up plan last week and brought in an online interpreter for Joseph Hagen's English class. It wasn't the school's first choice, said Keloland, but efforts to locate more interpreters in the area have proved futile. There's less interaction with an interpreter 300 miles away and "it's kind of like watching television," said Hagen. But "it's better than not having an interpreter," he said.

++++ADV+++++ADV+++++ADV++++

Want to know who called?

Just check your e-mail for Video Mail and Missed Calls from Hamilton Relay VRS!

Sign up for your personal toll free number to begin receiving calls and messages! Visit www.hamiltonrelay.com/videorelay/videomail.htm for all the details.

Remember, now you have the option of using Hamilton Relay VRS with any videophone. Try HamiltonVRS.tv today!

It’s the freedom of VRS and the convenience of Video Mail and Missed Calls - complete with the service and commitment of Hamilton Relay.

So get connected and stay connected with Hamilton Relay VRS Video Mail and Missed Calls.

Hamilton Relay. That’s what I’m talking about.

++++ADV+++++ADV+++++ADV++++

WCI Celebrates 25th Anniversary

We’re having one BIG celebration at WCI! Join us in ringing in the New Year AND celebrating our 25th anniversary! We’re pulling out all the stops to make the event extra special! The selection is huge and so are the savings. Call us at 1-800-233-9130 (V/TTY) or visit us at http://www.weitbrecht.com to get the details of all our sale items. For a copy of our catalog, email your request to: sales@weitbrecht.com.

WCI. Your Single Source for Assistive Technology

++++ADV+++++ADV+++++ADV++++

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

DANCE SCHOOL GRAD IS 'OUTSTANDING SENIOR'

After four years of dance school at the University of Arizona in Tucson, Lindsey Quigley "can't wait to make dreams come true" as a dance teacher for the deaf. "I want to show the students that being deaf does not mean that you cannot do what others can do," Quigley told the Arizona Daily Wildcat. A volunteer at the Arizona School for the Deaf and the Blind, Quigley hopes to become a certified dance teacher and develop a dance curriculum covering elementary through high school. She's been dancing for 11 years with A Tucson Dance Company and was named Outstanding Senior in Dance during UA's winter 2007 graduation. Said Quigley: "I am grateful for being able to do something that I never thought I could do because I am deaf."

KSD ARTISTS CHOSEN FOR HIGH SCHOOL SHOW

Four students from the Kansas School for the Deaf were among 95 Kansas City-area students chosen from about 400 entries in the 11th Annual Student High School Visual Arts Competition. The four -- Juana Bautista, Johanna Laughrey, Alfred Wigley and Matrix Young -- had their work displayed through December at the Irene B. French Community Center Art Gallery in Merriam, Kan. Art teacher Takako Kerns told the Kansas City Star she based the selections on the artists' strengths: Bautista has a knack for 3-D art, Laughrey has a gift for freehand drawing and Wigley is "really very good" at computer animation. Young, who entered a graphic design piece titled "Twins Connection," had been attending KSD as a result of Hurricane Katrina but recently moved back to New Orleans with his family.

CLARKE SCHOOL HOSTS POETRY CAFE

Clarke School for the Deaf students in Northampton, Mass. "let the love shine in" at their first Poetry Cafe of the year. The recurring event lets students "hone their speaking skills while ... reciting poetry about friendship, tolerance and other virtues," said The Republican. In addition to poems such as 11-year-old Sushant Bhatia's "Children in Iraq," fifth-graders did a skit called "How to Make Friends" and students from all classes sang "If I Had a Hammer." Teacher Janet Bloom, who started the cafe, called poetry a forgiving form of language that allows everyone to participate. "Each student is applauded and congratulated," she said. "It builds self esteem."

++++ADV+++++ADV+++++ADV++++

Select Your VRS Interpreter with Lifelinks VRS

Yes, now you can select the gender of your VRS interpreter; select an interpreter whom you like, who understands you well, who speaks Spanish, who is friendly, personable, prompt and excellent.

It’s YOUR CHOICE!
Use your VP-100™,VP-200™,D-Link™,PC or Mac!
You call -- we answer, promptly.
NO MORE ENDLESS WAITING FOR AN INTERPRETER!
If you have a PC or Mac, you can actually SEE the interpreter you are getting beforehand!

Lifelinks Video Relay SPEAKS YOUR LANGUAGE!
ANY LANGUAGE!
Spanish, Russian, Arabic, Hebrew, Chinese, Korean, Japanese, Hindi, or Urdu calls? Lifelinks speaks your language!

Dial
IP address:69.18.207.166
or 347-632-0430
www.lifelinksvrs.com

Lifelinks No Wait VRS:
Fast, Reliable, Personal

(Ask about LIFELINKS FREE WEB CAMERA offer at freewebcam@lifelinks.net)

++++ADV+++++ADV+++++ADV++++

Have you ever wondered how to sign certain songs?
Have you ever wondered what the right ASL signs would look like performed to your favorite song?
Keith Wann has launched a monthly club that will allow you to download and view an ASL clip with a song that the subscribers picked to be analyzed and performed in ASL.

Each song will have an introduction discussion, then the song, and then a wrap up discussing certain sign choices to help you better understand.
FOR OUR DEAF SUBSCRIBERS - the songs will be captioned

Subscribe now and start enjoying and downloading Keith Wann ASL clips to keep once a month with songs that will help you learn more ASL and how to perform them yourselves. $5 dollars a month for ASL Songs!
http://keithwann.com/Monthly_ASL_Songs.html
www.KeithWann.com

++++ADV+++++ADV+++++ADV++++

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
SPORTS
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

WRESTLERS GATHER IN INDIANAPOLIS

The Indiana School for the Deaf will host the 4th National Deaf Prep Wrestling Tournament on Friday and Saturday in Indianapolis. According to the Indianapolis Star, participating teams include Riverside, Calif.; Model of Washington, D.C.; Florida; Maryland; Fremont, Calif.; and Texas. Matches begin 1 p.m. Friday and end 8 p.m. Saturday with the finals. More information can be found here.

MASS. TEEN IS SCHOOL'S TOP WRESTLER

Taconic (Mass.) High School senior Wes Ross has been deaf since he was 4, said the Berkshire Eagle, but "it hasn't stopped him" from being his school's top wrestler at 189 pounds this season. Ross, 19, came to Pittsfield High School this year from the American School for the Deaf in West Hartford, Conn. A wrestler for almost five years, one of Ross' biggest challenges is when a referee forgets to signal the start of a match by hand and blows a whistle instead. It can result in a quick takedown, but the results are nullified when the mistake is realized. "When I do his matches," said 25-year veteran referee Harry Phelps, "I have to pay attention."

HIGH SCHOOL HOOPSTER AIMS FOR PROS

"I was born to play basketball," Marissa Cimino, a sophomore at Pine Ridge (Fla.) High School, told Central Florida News 13. The 15-year-old team captain is 70 percent deaf without her hearing aids and with all the noises and echoes "it's a little hard for me," she said. But her teammates support her completely and "everything we run is by numbers and signs," said Coach Bruce Palmer. Cimino, who hopes to play in college and on a professional level, finds special support from friends and family. "I will never miss a game," said her mother, Darcy. Added father Tony: "The sky's the limit with her."

IOWA HUNTER SNAGS 300-POUND BUCK

The Sioux City (Iowa) Journal reported this week on Daniel Myers, a 52-year-old deaf man who "spends several days each fall in a tree ... soaking up sun, wind, rain and cold." Myers, a hunter for 20 years, was interviewed at Theo's Steakhouse during the Big Buck Contest, an annual rite that saw hunters judging nearly 100 prize racks from deer season. With daughter Jenny Christopherson interpreting, Myers explained how he shot a 14-point buck with an arrow from 20 yards away, waiting for 30 minutes before climbing from his perch to inspect the 300-pound trophy. "Buck. Best. Ever," he said.

++++ADV+++++ADV+++++ADV++++

Attention: ASL and Deaf Culture Teachers...

Another exciting new product by THOMAS HOLCOMB and ANNA MINDESS is now
available!

"A SIGN OF RESPECT: STRATEGIES FOR EFFECTIVE DEAF/HEARING INTERACTIONS"

Visit www.treehousevideo.com to order.

For only $24.95 per student, you will get:

1. A DVD for each student;
2. Interactive lessons to develop culturally appropriate behavior with deaf individuals;
3. 18 potentially awkward situations are presented with three possible solutions for each scenario;
4. Reading materials on the history of deaf community events;
5. Worksheets to compare deaf culture with American mainstream"hearing" culture;
6. Reaction sheets to help your students process their feelings about attending deaf community events;
7. Exercises to encourage your students to develop the right attitude about deaf culture;
8. Tips on how to locate appropriate deaf community events to attend, how to meet deaf people , and how to initiate and develop friendships with deaf individuals;
9. A bonus section with opportunities to increase awareness of the following features of ASL: listing, fingerspelling, repetition, and back channel feedback

Have your bookstore contact info@treehousevideo.com now to order bulk copies of the A SIGN OF RESPECT DVDs for your classes.

++++ADV+++++ADV+++++ADV++++

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
COMING EVENTS
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

CALIFORNIA SCHOOL PLANNING FOR 150TH ANNIVERSARY

It's more than two years ahead, but plans are underway for the California School for the Deaf's 150th Anniversary Celebration. CSD was founded on May 1, 1860 and the celebration is set for April 30 to May 2, 2010. Tom Murillo and Barbara Morrison, chairpersons of the event, are seeking volunteers (not necessarily CSD alumni) to chair or serve on a committee such as registration, banquet, events, website or others. To get involved, send an email to Morrison at bmorrison@csdf-cde.ca.gov.

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
MILESTONES
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

PAUL 'CHIP' SMITH, 61, DEVOTED TO CHURCH, SPORTS

Paul "Chip" Smith, a devoted church member and avid high school sports fan, died last week in Las Vegas, said the Gulfport (Miss.) Sun Herald. Born deaf, Smith grew up in Buffalo, N.Y. and in the mid-1970s moved to Pascagoula, Miss., where PHS baseball coach Johnny Olsen said he became a big help to the team. "Some nights he'd spend the night at the gym to make sure everything got done," said Olsen. Smith, 61, had many deaf relatives and was a devoted member of the First Baptist Church of Pascagoula. He moved to Las Vegas several years ago to live with his sister. Rachael Patterson, who heads the church's deaf ministry, is glad he missed Hurricane Katrina. "I don't think he could have taken that in," she said.

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
EMPLOYMENT
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

You can advertise your job openings here for just $20 a week (up to 100 words, 10 cents each add'l word). Start spreading the news! To place your ad, send the announcement to mail@deafweekly.com.

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

JOB OPPORTUNITIES AT GLAD

GLAD is an Affirmative Action Employer with equal opportunity for men, women and people with disabilities. For more information on the following positions, please go to: www.gladinc.org. The status of all positions is: Regular, Full-time, Non-Exempt, Full Fringe Benefits unless otherwise noted. All positions are open until filled.

-- Hard of Hearing Specialist - Riverside, CA
-- Community Advocate - Ventura, Los Angeles (2) and Riverside, CA
-- Administrative Assistant - Los Angeles, CA
-- Community Interpreter - Bakersfield, CA
-- Community Interpreter - Los Angeles, CA
-- Placement Coordinator - Riverside and Anaheim, CA
-- Job Developer/Interpreter - Norwalk, Anaheim and Riverside, CA

If interested in any of these positions then please submit resume and application to:

Jeff Fetterman
Human Resources Specialist
Greater Los Angeles Agency on Deafness, Inc.
2222 Laverna Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90041
V/TDD: (323) 550-4207
Fax #: (323)550-4204
E-mail: jfetterman@gladinc.org

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

CEO of Nonprofit Agency

CEO position available in a respected Nashville nonprofit organization with an annual operating budget of approximately 1M. Organization has12 employees and 25 contract staff.

Basic requirements for the position are:
Minimum of six years experience in executive management.
BA or BS required; Masters degree preferred.
Sound knowledge of nonprofit business practices required.

Salary commensurate with experience and education. Position open as of 4-1-08. Interested applicants should send cover letter and resume' to:
Search Committee, League for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing, 415 Fourth Ave S, Nashville, TN 37201

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Mental Health Specialist - St. Cloud, MN
Deaf & Hard of Hearing Services Division
Minnesota Department of Human Services

$39,087 to $57,336 annually.

Contact: Dr. John Gournaris,
e-mail: john.gournaris@state.mn.us

Main Responsibilities: Provide direct mental health counseling services to deaf and hard-of-hearing adults coping with mental health issues. The candidate will be housed in St. Cloud, Minnesota and will travel to Duluth at a minimum once a week.

Responsibilities include: intake evaluation, treatment planning, inter-agency coordination, psychoeducational education, individual, family, and group counseling. Some consultation duties are also involved (in-services and workshops on Deaf culture, deafness and mental health). Maintain close contact with local acute psychiatric units ensuring that their services are accessible for deaf and hard-of-hearing clients.

Key Qualifications Sought:
M.A. or Ph.D. in Social Work, Counseling, Psychology, or related behavioral health field
Licensed or license eligible in Minnesota
Fluent in ASL
Willingness to perform some duties at remote work sites, involving some statewide travel

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

JOB OPENING
CAPTIONED TELEPHONE OUTREACH COORDINATOR
Staffed in Baltimore, MD

Hamilton Relay Services Division in Maryland currently has a full time position open for “Captioned Telephone Outreach Coordinator”.

This position will be staffed in Baltimore, MD.

We are an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, age, national origin or disability.

Position summary: Position is responsible for providing and gathering information, which will help, improve the quality of the Captioned Telephone service and the number of customers served by Maryland Relay. Individual will devote 100% of their time to Maryland Relay specific business and will be required to travel throughout the state of Maryland as needed.

Preferred education, experience and skills:
Associate or Bachelor’s Degree or comparable work experience along with a minimum of three years public relations experience.
Experience in public relations activities.
Direct work experience with a Telecommunications Relay Service or knowledge of Captioned Telephone preferred.
Experience working with people who are hard of hearing or late deafened, including familiarity with assistive listening devices and CART.
Captioned Telephone users are encouraged to apply.
Ability to organize and prioritize work and meet deadlines.
Strong analytical and interpersonal skills.
Hold a Maryland driver’s license and ability to travel alone.

Interested individuals may send all inquiries and/or resumes to www.hamilton.net/employment.html to the attention of Cindy Blase in Human Resource Department by January 30, 2008.

We are an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, age, national origin or disability.

Hamilton Relay, Inc. is a division of Hamilton Telecommunications based in Aurora, NE. Hamilton offers a competitive wage. Contact our HR Dept. at: 800.821.1831 or at: www.hamilton.net/employment.html.

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

FEGS

Counselor, Deaf Services - Full-Time
Long Term, Temporary Assignment (1/08-9/08)

FEGS, one of the largest health and human agencies in the country, has long provided a comprehensive range of services to individuals who are Deaf, Deaf-blind, or hard-of-hearing.

Join our energetic, talented team of professionals providing comprehensive case management services to adult Deaf or hard-of-hearing individuals who are psychiatrically disabled.

Our Behavioral Health Division seeks experienced professional to join the staff of their Manhattan Continuing Day Treatment program (located in the West Village), to provide group and individual counseling to Deaf adults who are chronically mentally ill.

Must be fluent in American Sign Language. Bachelor or Master degree in Social Work, Psychology, or related human service field preferred. Minimum of 1 year experience working with Deaf or hard-of-hearing psychiatrically disabled individuals.

Long term, temporary assignment (1/08-9/08). Send resume and cover letter, indicating salary requirements, to ekatz@hr-dynamics.com. For more information about FEGS Deaf services, visit: www.fegs.org/deaf. EOE

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Virginia Department of Rehabilitative Services
Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor for the Deaf (Counselor II)
Abingdon, Virginia
Pay Band 4 - Salary Range: $31,352 - $64,347
Position #00281
Closing Date - Open Until Filled***

The Field Rehabilitation Services Division is seeking a qualified VR Counselor for the Deaf to provide comprehensive vocational rehabilitation services to eligible persons with physical, mental, and emotional disabilities in the Washington, Lee, Scott, Dickenson, Russell, Smyth, Carroll, Wise, Buchanan, Bland, Tazewell, Wythe, Grayson, Giles, Montgomery, Pulaski, and Floyd Counties, cities of Bristol, Galax, Norton, and Radford.

Responsibilities: Provides comprehensive case management services including guidance, counseling, training and physical/mental restoration and job placement services. Develops, implements and manages vocationally focused service plans that identify customer goals, services and costs to help them achieve an employment outcome. Maintains detailed case notes and prepares position-related reports. Due to regional coverage, extensive travel is required.

Requirements: Considerable knowledge of the social, economic, medical, psychological and vocational issues impacting persons with disabilities; interviewing, evaluation, and counseling techniques; methods and tools for career counseling and exploration; and ADA compliance requirements. Demonstrated ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with community resources and individuals from diverse environments. Abilities to establish employment opportunities through contacts with businesses and organizations within the community; effectively communicate, orally and in writing; interpret and apply policies/procedures; and organize/manage multiple duties. Fluency in American Sign Language required. Successful candidate must have considerable knowledge of and understanding of the communication, cultural and psychosocial needs of persons who are deaf and hard of hearing. Working knowledge of Windows based computer software. Master’s degree in Rehabilitation Counseling or closely related field or current CRC required. Master’s level transcripts or copy of current certification, if applicable, must accompany application. Must have a valid driver’s license and access to transportation for daily travel. Salary is negotiable above the minimum of the pay band based on qualifications. This is a sensitive position, and the successful candidate will be subject to fingerprinting/ background investigation.

Contact Information: Please visit our Career Center at www.vadrs.org for position information or how to apply for a position. To apply online, please visit http://jobs.agencies.virginia.gov. Applications must be submitted through the RMS online system unless the applicant has called in advance to request a reasonable accommodation. To request an accommodation or additional information call 804-726-1919. Minorities and people with disabilities are encouraged to apply. EEO/AA/TTY - Reasonable accommodations upon request.

Closing Date: Open Until Filled***
State Form 10-012 Required

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

SouthWest Collegiate Institute for the Deaf (SWCID) is seeking nominations and accepting applications for Provost. The Provost is the lead administrator on issues related to SWCID and Deaf culture and education. Masters degree required. Doctorate preferred. 10 years related experience required. Knowledge of program development, budgeting, and computer resources. Proficiency in American Sign Language and comprehensive understanding of Deaf culture and education. Ability to provide creative leadership and a commitment to the principles of the Continuous Quality Improvement. Criminal background check required. Excellent benefits. For complete position notice and application, visit our website at www.howardcollege.edu.

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

The SouthWest Collegiate Institute for the Deaf (SWCID) is seeking nominations and accepting applications for Dean of Student Services. Masters degree required. 5 years related experience required. A minimum of five years of progressive responsibility in student services demonstrating a comprehensive understanding of student development theory and current best practices in the field. Experience with collegiate extracurricular activities, a strong understanding of the deaf culture, and strong communications skills. Budget planning experience; knowledge of testing and assessment used with the deaf; fluency in American Sign Language. Criminal background check required. Excellent benefits. For complete position notice and application visit our website at www.howardcollege.edu.

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Click here to subscribe or here to advertise.