Deafweekly March 17, 2010

deafweekly

March 17, 2010
Vol. 6, No. 20

Editor: Tom Willard

Deafweekly is an independent news report for the deaf and hard-of-hearing community that is mailed to subscribers on Wednesdays and available to read at www.deafweekly.com. These are the actual headlines and portions of recent deaf-related news articles, with links to the full story. Minor editing is done when necessary. Deafweekly is copyrighted 2010 and any unauthorized use is prohibited. Please support our advertisers; they make it possible for you to receive Deafweekly.

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NATIONAL
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Washington, DC
40 GALLAUDET EMPLOYEES LAID OFF
Last Wednesday, 40 Gallaudet employees got their pink slips because of efforts by President Hurwitz to reduce University spending. The layoffs came after President Obama announced in his State of the Union message that he will freeze discretionary spending, and recommended level funding for Gallaudet. Congress usually gives us more money, but this year, Congress agreed with what Obama said and now the implications are felt today. The positions were eliminated because they were identified as least essential to achieving the University’s mission. / The Buff and Blue

See Also: LETTER TO GALLAUDET COMMUNITY (PDF)

San Bernardino, CA
MAN DRIVES TRUCK THROUGH BRICK WALL, KILLS DEAF WOMAN IN KITCHEN
An 18-year-old San Bernardino man crashed a truck through a brick wall and into a house late Thursday, killing a woman who was standing in her kitchen. Authorities suspect the man, Christopher Segura, may have been attempting suicide based on statements by witnesses, the lack of skid marks and other factors. "Cars were damaged from cinder block flying over the house because the guy hit so hard," said neighbor Ken Morris. "It was like an explosion." Glynna Rose Folkens, 45, died at Loma Linda University Medical Center at 10:44 p.m., San Bernardino County coroner's officials said. / San Bernardino County Sun

Tallahassee, FL
TCC INTERPRETER DIES WHILE SCUBA DIVING IN FLORIDA KEYS
Students and faculty at Tallahassee Community College are mourning the loss of one of their own. 51-year-old Carol Strickland who was a deaf and hard of hearing interpreter at the college died in a scuba diving accident in the Florida Keys. The Monroe County Sheriff's Office says Strickland was diving off the coast of Key Largo at the French Reef. When she and her dive partner surfaced they both signaled they were okay, but Strickland began to struggle on her swim back to the boat. / WCTV

Foley, AL
FOLEY TEEN KILLED IN ONE-CAR ACCIDENT
Cars pass the makeshift memorial where 16-year-old Caitlin Buemi crashed her car March 7. Friends say she loved church, soccer, and eating out at Arby's Restaurant. She was a typical teenager who was headed down the right path. "My favorite memory is getting to pray with her. That's a great memory that I will always have with her," said family friend Avery Forrest. Since her immediate family is deaf, family friends spoke on their behalf. / WALA-TV FOX10

Columbus, OH
MAN GETS SEVEN YEARS FOR KILLING DEAF PEDESTRIAN
A Columbus motorist who passed out at the wheel of a minivan was sent to prison today for seven years for killing a deaf pedestrian on the Hilltop. David M. Johnson, 30, formerly of Sofia Court of the West Side, pleaded guilty in January to aggravated vehicular homicide. Columbus police said Johnson was driving west on Sullivant Avenue when his van ran onto a sidewalk east of Crescent Road and hit Fiery Hayes from behind, killing him, about 12:45 a.m. on July 31. Police later learned that the 43-year-old Hayes was deaf and could not have heard the van coming his way. / The Columbus Dispatch

Memphis, TN
QUESTIONS ARISING ABOUT REPORT BABY FELL 11 STORIES
Memphis police investigators are questioning whether a 1-month-old baby was dropped 11 stories down a trash chute in an apartment building Sunday morning. According to initial reports, Rachelle Nelson, the 32-year-old mother of the boy, told police that the boy's father threw the baby down the chute just before noon Sunday at the Pinnacle apartment building at 305 S. Bellevue. If that had happened, the baby would have fallen 110 feet into an empty trash bin and survived in noncritical condition. Both the mother and father are deaf, those in the building said, and at least partially mute. It's believed that the infant is also deaf. / The Commercial Appeal

Nevada, MO
LAWSUIT ALLEGES EBAY VIOLATES DISABILITIES LAW
A deaf woman who claims she hasn’t been able to sell items on eBay Inc.’s ecommerce Web site has filed a lawsuit saying the Internet giant violates federal and California state laws that protect disabled people against discrimination. The federal lawsuit, filed yesterday in U.S. District Court for the Western District of Missouri, centers around eBay’s sellers registration system, in which the company places an automated phone call to would-be sellers and requires them to verify themselves over the phone. The plaintiff, Melissa Earll of Nevada, Mo., alleges that she cannot communicate vocally by telephone and hasn’t been able to verify her identity with eBay. / The Wall Street Journal

Annapolis, MD
BILL WOULD REQUIRE POLITICAL ADS BE ACCESSIBLE TO THE DEAF
Residents who are deaf and hard of hearing want to know what politicians are saying on TV. A group of residents testified Tuesday before the House Ways and Means Committee in favor of a state bill that would require candidates to offer closed captioning or transcripts for television and web commercials. The bill is being sponsored by Frederick County Delegate Joseph Bartlett in the House and Sen. Norman R. Stone Jr. in the Senate. Bartlett has never used closed captioning on his campaign advertisements but said he would in the future. / The Frederick News-Post

Detroit, MI
SCHOOL CLOSURE PLAN INCLUDES DETROIT DAY SCHOOL FOR THE DEAF
A massive closure plan by Detroit Public Schools calls for shutting Osborn, Kettering and Cooley high schools while preserving as many K-8 schools as possible on the city's outskirts to prevent more students from fleeing to the suburbs. The plan to be announced today will mean about 45 building closures this year and a savings of $31 million. Among the elementary and middle schools on the closure list: Detroit Day School for the Deaf. / The Detroit News

St. Louis, MO
ST. LOUIS PUBLIC TALKS TO PARENTS ABOUT CLOSING GALLAUDET SCHOOL
St. Louis Public leaders met with parents at Gallaudet School last Thursday night, to discuss a plan to relocate students and close the school as soon as this summer. Gallaudet serves about 50 preschool, elementary and high-school students with disabilities including deaf, hard-of-hearing and autistic, and employs roughly 30 staffers. District leaders are considering moving students to schools with space. The issue could go before the board for approval as soon as April. / St. Louis Post-Dispatch

Rochelle Park, NJ
ROCHELLE PARK DEALS WITH COMPLAINING RESIDENT
An 84-year-old partially blind and deaf woman who the mayor calls "toxic" has six months to get along with her neighbors. Otherwise, a judge told Susanna Reinhardt last Wednesday that she might stand trial for harassment if she doesn't end her unfounded complaints. Reinhardt has called police 35 times during the past three years. The township clerk said Reinhardt calls town officials an average of three to five times a week. The charges stem from a November incident. Neighbor Gene Alonso said Reinhardt showed up at his front door around 11 p.m. and demanded that he trim his shrubs along a sidewalk. / The Associated Press

New York, NY
NEW YORK TO DEACTIVATE STREET FIRE ALARM BOXES
The fire department is preparing to deactivate its 15,000 street alarm boxes throughout New York City to save money and eliminate the thousands of false alarms triggered when the buttons are pushed. Mayor Michael Bloomberg suggested eliminating the system in his January budget proposal, but the idea dates back 15 years to his predecessor, Rudy Giuliani. When Giuliani first tried to get rid of the system in the 1990s, he was thwarted by a judge after a group of deaf and hearing-impaired people sued, arguing alarm boxes were necessary for them to report emergencies. The court prohibited the city from deactivating the system. / Claims Journal

Washington, DC
NAD APPLAUDS FCC SELECTION OF KAREN PELTZ STRAUSS AS CGB DEPUTY CHIEF
The National Association of the Deaf (NAD) was thrilled to learn that FCC Chairman, Julius Genachowski, named Karen Peltz Strauss, a former NAD attorney, as Deputy Chief, Consumer and Governmental Affairs Bureau (CGB). The CGB develops and implements FCC consumer policies, including disability access. Karen will focus on disability issues and will help the FCC implement the disability access components of the National Broadband Plan, including leading the effort to develop the Accessibility and Innovation Forum. / NAD

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GREAT NEWS! WRAD now has a bigger ballroom with stage for up to 500 people for the Masquerade Ball on July 21, 2010 at Treasure Island in Vegas during the DeafNation World Expo.

BUY your tickets now for only $70 per person online at www.wrad.org or mail a check to WRAD PO Box 3211 Quartz Hill, CA 93586.

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INTERNATIONAL
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Lincoln, England
ARREST AFTER ECHO PHOTOGRAPHER 'BITTEN'
A deaf man was arrested after allegedly biting the hand of a Lincolnshire Echo photographer. Shaun Bloodworth, 41, has been charged with assaulting the man after it was claimed he drew blood from his finger outside Lincoln Magistrates' Court on Monday. / This Is Lincolnshire

Toronto, ON, Canada
THE CANADIAN HEARING SOCIETY -- TRANSITION IN LEADERSHIP
The CHS Board of Directors thanks Kelly Duffin, CHS’s esteemed former President and CEO (2003-09) for her valuable contribution to CHS. The Board is pleased to announce the appointment of Denis Morrice as interim President and CEO as it actively recruits and hires for the position. Morrice is well acquainted with CHS having been the Society’s Executive Director for 17 years (1975-92). “I am thrilled to return to CHS and see the tremendous development that this organization has experienced under the leadership of Kelly Duffin, her team, and Board of Directors," says Morrice who has come out of retirement to accept the interim appointment. / CHS

Warman, SK, Canada
STORAGE CLOSET USED FOR DEAF CHILD'S LESSONS
A group of residents from the rural Saskatchewan community of Warman say their elementary school is so overcrowded that a paint storage room is also serving as a classroom space for a deaf student. A delegation, including the town mayor, travelled to Regina Thursday to press the provincial government for a new school. / CBC News

Baddeck, NS, Canada
NOVA SCOTIA HIGHWAY NAMED IN HONOR OF FORMER FAMED RESIDENT, ALEXANDER GRAHAM BELL
A stretch of the Trans-Canada Highway in Cape Breton has been named in honour of one of the most important inventors of the 19th and 20th centuries and his wife. The Nova Scotia government says Highway 105, which links North Sydney and Port Hastings, will now be known as Mabel and Alexander Graham Bell Way. Bell, the inventor of the telephone, was born in 1847 in Edinburgh, Scotland, but moved to Canada in 1870 and eventually built a summer home in Baddeck, N.S. / The Canadian Press

Karnataka, India
PURSUING LIFE WITH PASSION
"I come from three generations of deaf people,” says Russell Harvard, the charming American actor, who was in the City to promote his film Words, a film made by Anup Bhandari. Born in Pasedena,Texas, Russell and his brother, Renny, were born deaf. “My grandmother named me Russell since my mum couldn’t come up with a name for me for three whole days after I was born." Currently shooting for Hamill, a film based on the true life story of a deaf wrestler, he has put his schedule on hold to visit India on this promotional tour. / Deccan Herald

New Delhi, India
GERARD BUTLER SHOCKED BY DEFORMED EAR
Actor Gerard Butler was shocked to discover that his ear is deformed when he shaved of his head for the sequel of Angelina Jolie starrer Tomb Raider. The Scottish actor was born with "sticking-out ears", but his right one was pressed back in after surgery was conducted to save his hearing following a bout of tinnitus. The 40-year-old actor's hearing problems are also to blame for his "crooked smile", as Butler still suffers from tinnitus and is hard of hearing in his right ear. / NDTV

Kathmandu, Nepal
DEAF ARTISTS MAKE THEMSELVES HEARD
Jointly organized by Laxmi Bank and Nepal-Indo Deaf Art & Culture Society (NIDACS), “Eyes Empowered,” an art exhibition of works by four deaf artists, opened at Hotel Himalaya in Kupondole on Tuesday, March 9. Attended by diverse nationals from the deaf community, the inauguration was a unique one with sign-language interpreters translating in British, Indo-American and Nepali. / Republica

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Try one of our Powered by Purple® services:
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Keith Wann's ASL Comedy Tour 2010

Keith Wann, renowned for his hilarious, sidesplitting comedy performances, is now producing and hosting the ASL Comedy Tour 2010, which will travel the U.S. this year. With American Sign Language (ASL) artists presenting solo performances incorporating comedy, skits, songs, improvisation, and stories, each show lasts two hours. Sponsored by www.CallVRS.org, the multi-city tour is designed to be affordable for each location - making it ideal as a fundraiser for participating organizations.

“We really want to reach out to all communities, so we are sharing in the costs and profits at each location. We will work closely with booking parties to maximize profits for their organization and to bring in as many people as possible for a night of laughter, socialization and fun,” Wann said. “We also offer workshops by some of our performers, which can be held the day of the performance. People can come to our workshops, and then unwind by attending the comedy show that evening.”

www.aslcomedytour.com
Contact KemiProductionsInc@gmail.com.

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LIFE & LEISURE
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Kissimmee, FL
LET'S START A LETTER CHAIN TO HELP OUR DEAF CHILEAN BROTHERS AND SISTERS
Gracias VRS received this letter below from concerned parties in Chile and support these efforts. Here is the letter we received and we encourage anyone interested in helping to support their cause. "Good afternoon dear colleagues. We, a group of interpreters from Spain, Uruguay, Colombia and Brazil, invite all of you to join in an initiative to send hundreds of emails to officials of the Chilean Government and the media asking them to allow Chilean Sign Language interpreters to volunteer their services to the various television media in order to provide timely, rapid and inclusive information to the affected deaf population. / Gracias VRS News

Ashburn, VA
TURN YOUR VOICE OFF AT THE DOOR: ASL AT BRIAR WOODS HIGH SCHOOL
A world where speaking with hands is like talking and facial expressions are grammatical exists right here in the United States. At Briar Woods High School, this world and unique culture is foreign and unknown to the masses, however, the American Sign Language program, headed by Ms. Vohrer, is using Foreign Language Week and Deaf Awareness Month to introduce Deaf Culture to the student body and community. / The Falcon Flyer

New Bedford, MA
LETTER: QUARTERBACK SET EXAMPLE PROTECTING SON'S HEARING
Though New Englanders didn't get to see the Patriots in the recent Super Bowl, we did get to see a great example of a dad protecting his son. I'm talking about the Saints' quarterback, Drew Brees. I would like to commend Brees for setting a great example for parents everywhere. When Brees had his one-year-old son wear noise-reducing earphones during the post game celebration, he effectively shielded his son's young ears from damage due to high noise levels in the stadium. / The Standard Times

Fort Myers, FL
CENSUS DOESN'T ASK IF YOU'RE AN IDIOT ANYMORE
This year’s census form, which will be arriving in the mail starting Monday, is one of the shortest ever — 10 questions which include name, sex, age, date of birth, race, etc. The census form has changed dramatically since 1790 when federal marshals went house-to-house to count the nation for the first time. In 1860, when there were 14 questions on the form, one question asked “whether deaf and dumb, blind, insane, idiotic, pauper or convict” lived at the residence. / The News-Press

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HEALTH AND ADVOCACY INFORMATION FOR PERSONS WHO ARE DEAF, DEAF-BLIND, AND HARD OF HEARING

Persons who are Deaf, Deafblind and hard of hearing are grossly underserved by both the physical health and the behavioral health care system. In many cases, the patient as well as the health care provider who may provide service to them, is unaware of laws that mandate the provision of accommodations in the health care setting so that all persons have equal access to health related information. A new web site called http://www.healthbridges.info was created by people who are Deaf, DeafBlind and hard of hearing.

The site features:
* A Communication Preference Card/Accommodation Card that can be individualized for you
* Information about your rights in the hospital
* A collection of valuable links
* Behavioral health and supportive social services information

http://www.healthbridges.info

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WORKING WORLD
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Norwalk, CA
WORD OF MOUTH BRINGS DEAF TAXMAN BRISK BUSINESS
Gary Jacobson is passionate about helping deaf and hard of hearing people prepare their taxes. But instead of spending money on advertising, the 60-year-old accountant sets up a daylong clinic at a Starbucks in Norwalk. Jacobson was born hearing-impaired. As a child, he learned how to read lips and speak. Tax preparation is his full-time job now. “Gary is honest," says Renee Thomas. "Not only that, he explains why they're not getting a refund, or why they're paying, in American Sign language." / 89.3 KPCC

Brownsville, TX
FIRST RESPONDERS LEARN BASIC SIGN LANGUAGE TO ASSIST WITH DEAF
Several emergency first responders in the Rio Grande Valley are learning a new language and it has nothing to do with the spoken word. The responders are learning basic sign language to assist them in better communicating with the deaf or hearing impaired when they respond to either accident or incident scenes. Last Tuesday, nearly a dozen first responders attended the first of six one-hour classes inside the Dancy Building in which they were taught how to sign the alphabet. / The Brownsville Herald

Salt Lake City, UT
SORENSON VIDEO CENTER APP NOW AVAILABLE ON APP STORE
Sorenson Communications last Thursday announced its Video Center App is now available on the App Store. The Sorenson Video Center App will empower Sorenson VRS® (SVRS®) users to access their Video Center content, including SignMail® messages and videos, on their iPhone® or and iPod touch® anytime, anywhere, without using an ASL interpreter. / Business Wire

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Sorenson Video Relay Service® (SVRS®) is an industry leading communication tool for the deaf community provided by Sorenson Communications. Created with high-quality video technology, SVRS brings life into the conversations of our customers as they call family, friends, and business associates at no cost through a professional SVRS sign language interpreter and a cutting-edge videophone. SVRS is provided 24-hours a day, and 365 days a year, connecting the deaf and hard-of-hearing to anyone at their convenience. For more information, visit the SVRS Web site at www.sorensonvrs.com.

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ALL ULTRATEC TTYs ON SALE!

March comes in like a lion with a roaring special from WCI! All Ultratec TTYs are 15% off. Choose from several different models all with superior quality and state-of-the art technology. You’re sure to find a TTY that is right for you. Call us at 1-800-233-9130 (V/TTY) or visit our website for more details on our TTYs and all our other products. For a copy of our NEW catalog, email your request to: sales@weitbrecht.com.

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INSTRUCTIONAL TECHNOLOGY FOR ASL AND INTERPRETER TRAINING PROGRAMS!

Whether your focus is on basic day-to-day communication skills in American Sign Language or advanced proficiency for career-path interpreter training, the Sony Virtuoso™ and Soloist® ASL software suite can give your students the competitive edge. Features of our digital language lab technology include: Video and Audio Communication between the Instructor and Students; Real-time High Quality Video and Audio Capture; Simulation of Real-Life Interpreting Situations and Ethical Scenarios for Practicum Skill Development; Creation of Digital Student Portfolios, and much more. Contact SANS at sales@sansinc.com to arrange a demo or visit at www.sansinc.com.

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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
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Hollywood, CA
SEE WHAT I'M SAYING: THE DEAF ENTERTAINERS DOCUMENTARY
Deaf people can do anything but hear. But an all deaf rock band? An international deaf comic famous around the world but unknown to hearing people? A modern day Buster Keaton who teaches at Juilliard but is currently homeless? A hard of hearing singer who is considered "not deaf enough?" SEE WHAT I'M SAYING follows the journeys of four extraordinary deaf entertainers over the course of a single year as their stories intertwine and culminate in some of the most important events of their lives: Robert DeMayo, actor,; Bob Hiltermann, drummer; CJ Jones, comic; TL Forsberg, singer. World Premiere March 18, 2010, Egyptian Theater, 6712 Hollywood Boulevard, Hollywood, CA 90028. Tickets on Sale NOW. / Official Movie Site

Los Angeles, CA
NOW PLAYING: MY SISTER IN THIS HOUSE
Deaf West Theatre is proud to present My Sister in This House, written by Wendy Kesselman and directed by Michael Unger. Inspired by a true incident in 1930s France, this haunting play explores class struggle, identity, and what happens when the need for connection and companionship is ignored and abused. The play is based on the true story of the Papin Sisters, who suffered through an abusive childhood and an estranged workplace in 1930s France. Their bizarre tale inspired many writers of the era, including Jean Genet and Jean Paul Sartre. / Deaf West Theatre

New York, NY
MIRACLE WORKER REVIEW: ACCESSIBLE, ENGAGING, ENDANGERED
To judge whether there is an audience for “The Miracle Worker” the first-ever Broadway revival of the 1959 play about the awakening of Helen Keller, let’s look at the numbers: as many as a million adults in the United States who are both deaf and blind; 20 million or so who are hearing-impaired; more than 25 million who are vision-impaired (people who have trouble seeing even with glasses); more than 300 million who experience frustration, yearn for connection, feel inspired by a true story of triumph over challenges. / The Faster Times

Los Angeles, CA
WIDELY-ACCLAIMED, AWARD-WINNING CHILDREN'S AUTHOR PRODUCES DVD FOR THE DEAF
Tina Turbin, humanitarian, researcher and author of the celebrated children’s book Danny the Dragon Meets Jimmy will release the Danny the Dragon Meets Jimmy DVD (vivid audio-visual presentation of the book) with sign-language interpretation for the deaf on April 15th 2010. During the author’s National Book Tour of ‘09, while visiting a school for the deaf, she was alarmed to learn that a high percentage of deaf high school students graduate at the 4th grade reading level. This opened her eyes to the need for materials to assist their education and raise awareness to these facts. Tina personally produced the DVD as a result. / PRWeb

Washington, DC
'HENDRICK AVERCAMP: THE LITTLE ICE AGE' @ NAT'L GALLERY OF ART
Hendrick Avercamp: The Little Ice Age, which will be on view in the National Gallery of Art, West Building, Dutch Cabinet Galleries, March 21 through July 5, 2010. Hendrick Avercamp (1585-1634), known to contemporaries as the "Stomme van Kampen" (Mute of Kampen), was not able to speak and was very likely deaf, and in honor of this, the Gallery and Gallaudet University have developed a joint pilot project of exhibition-related offerings for audiences who are deaf and hard of hearing. A 45-minute tour of the exhibition in American Sign Language will be offered at 1:00 p.m. each Thursday from April 1 through July 1. Tours will be led by students and alumni from Gallaudet University. / Exhibition Website

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Big Savings During March Madness Sale

March Madness means big savings at Harris Communications. During our March Madness sale, we have 15% off most items in our store AND free shipping on orders of $50 or more.*

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Shop our huge selection of products and save!
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Visit our website or contact us at: mailto:info@harriscomm.com.

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callVRS is exercising the freedom of choice! How about you?

We choose to answer to the Deaf community. We choose to treat our interpreters with honor and respect. We choose to be ethical and fiscally accountable. We choose to be the VRS Company that focuses on the interpreter along with the callers to make the VRS experience better for everyone. Find the interpreter to meet your many needs. Skilled, Ethical, Professional, and Friendly are all a part of your choice. Experience the freedom! www.callvrs.org. dial callVRS.info on your video phone today! Hearing callers dial 877-241-1411 (VRS 2 411 411)

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SPORTS
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Vancouver, BC, Canada
'ONE INSPIRES MAN' SETS THE TONE FOR PARALYMPIC GAMES
There was no Bryan Adams, Michael Bublé or Sarah McLachlan in the opening ceremonies of the Paralympic Games, but when you've got memories of Terry Fox and the moves of Luca "Lazylegz" Patuelli to inspire a packed house, who needs superstar performers? The theme "one inspires many" was woven throughout last night's show. And while it's hard to imagine anyone exemplifying this theme better than Mr. Fox or Rick Hansen (whose achievements played prominent roles in the program), the artists who shared centre stage with the sports heroes at BC Place provided stirring examples of how one person's strength and talent can touch many. / The Globe and Mail

Fulton, MO
COMMUNICATING ON THE COURT
When Bob Washington came to the Missouri School for the Deaf looking for a job 29 years ago, he didn't know what he'd be signing up for. "I thought to come here for working, other than a teacher, probably as a custodian," Washington said. Washington had a degree in physical education and health, and the school principal at the time offered him a substitute teaching job. "I didn't know any signing, had any signing skills," Washington said. So Washington had to learn. First in the classroom, then on the court. / KOMU

Columbia, MO
PLAYING THROUGH SILENCE
Many people take verbal communication for granted. Whether it's through words, laughs, cheers or simply grunts, it's always there. The 10 students on the Missouri School for the Deaf boys basketball team have varying degrees of hearing loss. This package is an inside look into the lives of these deaf students and the faculty that work with them. / Columbia Missourian

Frederick, MD
MSD'S TUCKER, LEWIS EARN SPOTS ON USA DEAF BASKETBALL'S UNDER-21 TEAM
Claire Tucker and Tandy Lewis made quite an impression this basketball season. The Maryland School for the Deaf pair helped lead the Orioles to the ESDAA championship. Tucker and Lewis also made quite an impression with coaches of USA Deaf Basketball's under-21 team, which will play in this summer's World Deaf Basketball Championships in Lublin, Poland. The coaching staff wasted no time in finding spots for Tucker and Lewis on the squad. They will head to Lublin with the team on June 18 and will be there for 17 days. / Frederick News Post

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The Z™ offers the best in videophone technology, providing equipment options to meet customers' individual needs and offering features not available through other VRS providers. Professional, nationally certified interpreters follow standards of service excellence above and beyond FCC requirements. Dedicated to a spirit of innovation and commitment to excellence, The Z™ continues to set the industry standard as the nation's premier VRS provider. Go to www.zvrs.com for more information on all of our products, services and features. Don't have a Z phone? You can still join The Z™ Life by calling 888.888.1116 to connect to ZVRS from any videophone!

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Do you wear an Advanced Bionics HiRes90k or Clarion II Cochlear Implant?

Weitz & Luxenberg P.C., a leading plaintiffs’ litigation law firm, is expanding litigation against Advanced Bionics related to defective cochlear implants. If you believe that you may have received an “Important Notification” letter from Advanced Bionics about your HiRes90k or Clarion II cochlear implant in either 2004 or 2006, we urge you to contact us to receive important legal information - even if you CI is working. Many of our clients’ cochlear implants stopped working prematurely as described in the letter. We have a Deaf attorney and VP available. To find out more, please click here and follow instructions on the screen or go to www.weitzlux.com/failed-cochlear-implants_1937570.html.

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MILESTONES
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Rochester, MN
JANET R. MCCANN ROBINSON, TAUGHT AT MICHIGAN SCHOOL FOR THE DEAF
Janet Ruth McCann Robinson, born on May 2, 1917, in Scotland, Indiana, died Friday, March 5, 2010, in Rochester, Minnesota. She worked as an educator of the deaf at Michigan School for the Deaf, and Upjohn School in Michigan, later filling the role of Teacher Counselor in the Kalamazoo school system. / Post-Bulletin

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COMING EVENTS
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Rochester, NY
3RD ANNUAL DEAF LGBT YOUTH COLORFEST RETURNS TO ROCHESTER
National Technical Institute of the Deaf at Rochester Institute of Technology is proud to be hosting the the 3rd annual Deaf LGBT Youth Colorfest, better known as Colorfest 2010. An estimated 250 Deaf LGBT youth are projected to participate in this exciting national event from March 26-28, 2010. This year's fest will include an opening ceremony, workshops, evening social, performing arts, and much more. Hearing and straight allies are welcome to Colorfest 2010. Further information regarding event registration, volunteer opportunities or sponsorship with this exciting event can be found by visiting: www.colorfest2010.com.

See Also: EDUCATION: YOUNG, DEAF, AND GAY / Rochester City Newspaper

Brainerd, MN
ASL STUDENTS PLAN FUNDRAISER
The Central Lakes College Foundation will receive proceeds from the March 26 Melissa Wooden Memorial Scholarship Fundraiser at the Brainerd Eagles Club. Students in the American Sign Language Club at CLC are coordinating the event. Brainerd High School students are assisting. The Melissa Wooden Scholarship Fund, a permanent endowment, was established in memory of the late Melissa Wooden of Little Falls, who was an instructor in American Sign Language and a victim of a vehicle accident in 2009. Many silent auction items have been donated. For information visit http://mybeautifulbutterfly.wordpress.com/. / Brainerd Dispatch

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EMPLOYMENT
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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.

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EXCITING CAREER OPPORTUNITIES AT GLAD, INC.

* Job Developer / Interpreter - Crenshaw, CA
* Community Interpreter - Los Angeles, CA

To learn more about these positions, please visit our website, www.gladinc.org.

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Job Postings

Teachers at Preparatory School at the National Deaf Academy

Full-Time Teachers Wanted

This position required full-time teachers to obtain current Bachelor’s degree and Florida certification. Two years in Special Education and working with the Deaf and Hard of Hearing or Dual-Sensory with Communication Disorders is preferred.

Teacher in Special Needs Program must have Varied Exceptionality or Exceptional Student Education certification
Teach in Deaf Education Program must have Hearing Impaired certification.

This position exists to provide direct instruction and other educational services to children, adolescents, and young adults in treatment in order to help them maintain or improve their academic performance levels/standing, as well as help them make a smooth post-discharge transition back into their home school setting. This responsibility is carried out by careful instructional planning utilizing a well designed Individualized Educational Plan. The classroom instruction follows unit planning that based on the best practices and evidence-based researches for Exceptional Student Education students. The teachers are able to communicate fluently through American Sign Language (ASL) and deliver multi-sensory and innovative strategies in all instructions. In addition, the teachers provide positive behavioral support and interventions in their classroom.

Contractual Visually-Impaired Teacher Wanted

This position is a contractual basis that requires a certified teacher specialized in Visually Impaired with a background in American Sign Language. This position focuses on working with Visually Impaired and Deaf-Blind students who are in a behavioral health residential facility. This position also requires extensive knowledge of assessments and services in order to help the visually-impaired students maintain or improve their quality of life while they are in treatment and for transition. Teacher must be familiar with multi-modality instruction, including instructional and Braille materials. To be a partner with the educational team, Visually Impaired teacher is responsible providing an array of education service delivery to meet the needs and abilities of the students based on the recommendations from the assessments and Individualized Educational Plan. In this position, the teacher who works with visually impaired students with behavioral disorders requires flexibility with unexpected setbacks and fluctuated schedule.

Competitive salary and excellent benefits. Fax resume to Human Resources: (352)735-4939 or send resume to: National Deaf Academy, Attention: Human Resources,19650 US Hwy 441, Mt. Dora, Florida 32757. Phone (352)735-9500 barbara.tashlein@psysolutions.com EOE

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Mental Health Technician

Responsible for the daily supervision and monitoring of residents safety, activities of daily living, school attendance and recreation activities.

Requires minimum high school diploma Bachelor’s degree in related field preferred. Experience working in behavioral health setting preferred. Fluent in ASL preferred. American Sign Language training provided on site. All shifts available. Competitive salary and excellent benefits. Fax resume to Human Resources: (352)735-4939 or send resume to: National Deaf Academy, Attention: Human Resources,19650 US Hwy 441, Mt. Dora, Florida 32757. Phone (352)735-9500. EOE

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Advocates Inc.

Advocates is looking for full-time 40 hours per week staff with benefits to work in our Deaf service programs in Framingham MA. The Direct Care Counselor is responsible for implementing the mission of the MH Division. The Direct Care Counselor is responsible for supervising the daily activities of the clients, providing ongoing support, guidance and role modeling. He/she facilitates client improvement in the areas of personal responsibility, social skills, community living skills and behavior.

Advocates' philosophy is based on common values and principles that guide the delivery of all of the services we provide. We believe that all individuals have the right to pursue their personal goals and to contribute to the community. We believe they are entitled to receive accessible services; to live in decent and affordable housing; to be treated with dignity and respect; and to live in inclusive and diverse communities. The employees of Advocates and the recipients of the services we provide work together with the community to ensure that these universal rights are promoted and protected.

Advocates offers a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental and life insurance, tuition reimbursement, 410(k) plan and a six-week holiday/vacation package.

Advocates is an EOE committed to employing a diverse workforce.

Susan Nathan
Advocates Inc.
Framingham, Ma. 01702
HR Recruitment Manager
SNathan@advocatesinc.org

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COMMUNITY SUPPORT SPECIALIST
Puget Sound Regional Services -- Seattle, WA

Puget Sound Regional Services (PSRS) is a non-profit community services organization that offers a rewarding opportunity for energetic and compassionate people to provide direct residential and community support to adults with developmental disabilities. We are currently seeking P/T & F/T Community Support Specialist with shifts available in the Seattle and Renton areas. The position starts at $10.25 per hour, first raise is to 10.50 per hour after 90 days.

Requirements:
· Advanced knowledge of sign language
· Able to work weekends or every other weekend
· Ability to lift, push and pull 50lbs
· At least 18 years old
· Diploma/GED
· Pass a Criminal Background Check
· WSDL w/insurance and reliable transportation
· Able to read / write English
· Able to walk long distances

Generous Benefits that Include:
Mileage Reimbursement, Paid Time Off, Employee Assistance Program, and a 403(b) Retirement Savings Plan for P/T. F/T employees receive Medical & Dental.

If interested and meet all above requirements contact Alisha Martin at amartin@gopsrs.org

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Executive Director
The New York School for the Deaf (Fanwood)

The Board of Trustees of the New York School for the Deaf, known as Fanwood, seeks an experienced and visionary leader to assume the role of Executive Director on or about July 1, 2010. Fanwood, established in 1817, is the oldest school for the deaf in New York and the second oldest in the United States.

With support of the Board of Trustees, primary responsibilities of the Head of School include:
-- Visionary leadership for continuous improvement , enhancement, and expansion of instructional and support programs for students and families
-- With the Comptroller, preparing budgets and corresponding recommendations and submitting them to the Board for approval
-- With Board-designated attorneys, representing the school in labor negotiations.
-- Advocating the school’s interests to state legislators and maintaining a close relationship with the State Education Department to support the school's objectives
-- Representing the school through active participation in local and state activities and organizations related to the mission of NYSD
-- Collaborating with like schools for the Deaf to share best practices and ensure sustainability of schools serving Deaf students
-- Encouraging financial support through friend building and fund raising activities from individuals, foundations, businesses, professionals, and educational communities
-- Promoting the school to the Deaf community and other supporters and friends through social and educational events, gatherings and performances

GENERAL QUALIFICATIONS
-- Graduate degree in Deaf Education, Educational Administration or a closely related field.
-- Minimum of five years of demonstrated successful administrative experience in an educational setting for Deaf individuals
-- Articulate in American Sign Language and English
-- Possession of or eligibility for appropriate New York State Administration Certification is preferred
-- Qualified candidates should submit resumes by April 1, 2010 to: searchcommittee@nysd.net

Names of prospective candidates can also be submitted to search committee Co-Chair Alexis Kashar at searchcommittee@nysd.net

All resumes will be treated confidentially

New York School for the Deaf is an Equal Opportunity Employer

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New Deaf Services Manager at BJC Behavioral Health St. Louis, MO.

Position includes: manage, coordinate, and supervise deaf & HoH clients with mental & emotional disorders through therapeutic and case management services. Build a strong community relationship between BJC BH & the Deaf & HoH community through networking, advocacy and outreach efforts. Program Management/Coordination (50%) & Therapy (50%)

Master or Doctorate in Counseling, Social Work, or Psychology
Job Experience: minimum 2 Years, 5-1 0 Years preferred
Supervisory Experience: Minimum 3 years, 5-7 Years preferred

Resumes: Mark Stansberry, Executive Director
BJC Behavioral Heath, 1430 Olive, Suite 400, St. Louis MO 63103

www.bjcjobs.org (1000044)

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DEAF SERVICES CENTER
614 N. Easton Road, Glenside, PA 19038
215-884-9770 TTY/V 215-884-9774 FAX

Deaf Services Center (DSC) is a dynamic team of behavioral health professionals serving Deaf and Hard of Hearing children and adults. We take great pride that our program is strongly Deaf/HOH centered with about 85% of our staff being Deaf or Hard of Hearing. Our staff environment is one of incredible teamwork and mutual support. As a result, we are rapidly growing with new programs and expansions of our existing programs. Whether you are a high school graduate, recent college graduate or have many years experience in the field of human services we have a career building position waiting for you!

DSC is looking for dedicated, motivated, energetic individuals who are fluent in American Sign Language and knowledgeable about Deaf Culture and the Deaf Community to fill the following positions:

STAFF INTERPRETER
BEHAVIOR SPECIALIST
INTENSIVE CASE MANAGERS
RESIDENTIAL COUNSELORS

We are soon opening a Residential Treatment Facility for Deaf adolescents early Spring 2010! We are interviewing now. Please see below for open positions:

MENTAL HEALTH THERAPIST
RESIDENTIAL TREATMENT FACILITY STAFF

Come be a part of our exciting growing professional TEAM! For more information on any of the positions listed, feel free to contact us at:

Linda Claypool, Office Manager/HR
Deaf Services Center
614 N. Easton Road, Glenside, PA 19038
Email: lclaypool@salisb.com or Fax: 215-884-6301

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