Deafweekly June 14, 2006

deafweekly

June 14, 2006
Vol. 2 No. 32

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 2006 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++++

Do You Use VP-100? Yes? More VRS Choices For You Soon!

FCC requires ALL videophones to be accessible to ANY VRS provider. Soon you will no longer be limited to one VRS provider. You will be free to use any VRS. When your VP-100 opens up to allow calling to any VRS, try using IP-VRS. Dial tv.ipvrs.com and make a phone call. And if you really like IP-VRS, make it your first choice VRS provider all the time!

You will see why many choose IP-VRS as their preferred VRS provider.

IP-VRS: We’re Working for You

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

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

STUDENT GOVERNMENT DECLINES TO RECOMMEND NAMES

The Gallaudet University Student Body Government said in a statement this week that it will not recommend any students to serve on the interim provost search committee. SBG President Noah Beckman said the decision was made over concerns about the committee’s composition. “We feel that a single undergraduate student is not capable of representing the entire student body and is insufficient to reflect the diversity of the student body,” said Beckman. The statement, an open letter to Gallaudet President I. King Jordan at www.gallyfssa.org, added, “If you can change the composition of the search committee, the SBG will be more than happy to provide you the names of interested students who wish to serve.”

HOMELESS NEW YORK MAN ADMITS TO BRICK MURDER

A homeless New York City “deaf mute” has admitted in a videotaped confession to killing a man by hitting him in the head with a brick four times, reported the Long Island City Tribune. William Washington, 47, said he killed the still-unidentified Hispanic man while he slept in Washington’s makeshift shelter near a city intersection. Washington told police he dragged the victim’s body down the street, took money from his pockets and tried to clean blood stains off the sidewalk. Washington has been charged with second-degree murder, robbery, criminal possession of a weapon and tampering with evidence, and if convicted could get 25 years to life in prison.

RIT STUDENT FIGHTS SEX ASSAULT ALLEGATIONS

A deaf Rochester (N.Y.) Institute of Technology student is fighting back after being accused of sexual assault, reported 13 WHAM. Andrew Taylor and another student, who was also accused in the alleged attack but never arrested, are both deaf; the 18-year-old accuser is hard of hearing. The woman said Taylor and the other man forced her to perform oral sex on them in a bathroom at an off-campus party. Taylor, 20, says the woman initiated the sexual activity, never objected and was never restrained. Taylor, an Eagle Scout and honor student from Kansas City, Mo., was charged with first-degree criminal sexual act, a felony punishable by up to 25 years in prison. A private investigator found the woman had a history of making false allegations and a grand jury declined to indict Taylor. But RIT suspended him for a year and he is still not allowed back on campus. “I want my record from RIT to be cleared of this case,” he said.

SIGN LANGUAGE TEACHER SUES FORMER EMPLOYER

A former sign language teacher at Howard Community College in Howard County, Colorado has filed a federal discrimination lawsuit against the school, reported the Denver Examiner. Ron Fenicle, 44, of Columbia, said in his complaint that he was hired in the summer of 2003 and taught until January 2005, which his contract was not renewed. He was replaced by a teacher who did not need an interpreter to teach, said Fenicle, who is representing himself in the case. “Their behavior was very obvious,” he said. “They didn’t want to have to pay for an interpreter.” Fenicle said in his complaint that he is not seeking monetary damages and just wants his job back.

WOMAN SUES WEST VIRGINIA SCHOOL OVER STAIRWAY FALL

A West Virginia School for the Deaf and Blind alumna who broke her leg during a class reunion is suing the school, reported the Charleston Gazette. Sondra Roach was walking up a concrete stairway that did not have a handrail, said the suit. Her sight-impaired friend, Barbara Haines, lost her balance, reached for a handrail, couldn’t find one and instead grabbed Roach, causing both women to fall backwards. Roach, who broke her leg in four places, “remains in constant pain and cannot walk properly,” said the lawsuit. She is suing under the Americans with Disabilities Act and seeking undisclosed compensatory and punitive damages.

ARKANSAS MAN SETTLES JAIL ASSAULT CASE

Saline County in Arkansas has agreed to a settlement with a deaf man who said he was sexually assaulted in jail. According to KTHV in Little Rock, the unidentified 57-year-old man claimed in a lawsuit that he was attacked by inmates twice in June 2002. Three prisoners were later charged with rape and pleaded guilty to lesser offenses, said the report. The man was given a $40,000 settlement, which attorney George “Bucky” Ellis said was a good deal. “It would have cost much more than $40,000 to try the case,” he said.

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

For Father's Day ... give him more than just a card ... call Dad.

Call him because it's easier than ever to tell him how much he means to you!

* VRS: SprintVRS.tv or SprintVRS.com
* Internet: SprintIP using AIM® or SprintIP.com
* Wireless: Any device with AIM®
> Sidekick: SprintIP using AIM®
> BlackBerry OS 3.7 or better: Sprint IP Wireless, FREE download www.sprintrelay.com/download/ using your BlackBerry internet browser.

Don’t delay! Father’s Day is Sunday, June 18th!

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

NORTH CAROLINA AGENCY TO CLOSE AFTER 31 YEARS

The Winston-Salem (N.C.) Journal reported last week that the Forsyth Center for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing is closing this month after 31 years. The decision was made by the United Way of Forsyth County, which gave the center $120,000 last year, and The Enrichment Center, which provides the center with office space. Louis Pugh, executive director of The Enrichment Center, said the state offers similar services and will be expanding in the area, raising concerns about duplication of services. Local advocates, troubled by the closing, have already created a new nonprofit organization to offer similar services. North Carolina for Deaf and Hard of Hearing will open June 15 in the Winston Tower in Winston-Salem.

COMPENSATION PANEL FINISHES WORK THIS WEEK

Friday is the last day of business for the Baxter School Compensation Authority, a Maine state panel that gave out more than $17 million to victims of abuse at the Gov. Baxter School for the Deaf. The compensation authority was formed in 2001 and held its first meeting the following year to decide on compensation for students who had been physically and sexually abused at the Mackworth Island school in Falmouth in the 1960s and 70s, reported the Boston Globe. The panel judged 361 claims and found 340 to be eligible for compensation totaling $17.6 million, with most settlements in the amounts of $25,000, $60,000 or $100,000.

SCHOOL PUTS OVER HALF ITS LAND UP FOR SALE

The New York School for the Deaf in White Plains is putting more than half of its campus on the market. The school is offering to sell 40 acres of its 77-acre campus in a deal that is expected to draw a lot of interest from residential developers looking for scarce land in central Westchester, reported The Journal News. The school, founded in 1817, bought the land in 1936, said headmaster John Tiffany. The school board decided to sell the grassy and wooded parcel, with its steep slopes and wetlands, to increase the endowment. Tiffany declined to say how much the school has on hand, but “it’s not adequate to do what we need to do to maintain this campus.”

OREGON TO SEEK INPUT ON SCHOOL RELOCATION

Oregon is planning to hold a series of statewide public input sessions on a proposal to relocate the Oregon School for the Blind to the campus of the Oregon School for the Deaf. According to Salem-News.com, the 2005 Oregon Legislature directed the state Department of Education to report on the cost-effectiveness of combining the two programs as well as contracting them out to a local education agency. A work group assembled by State Superintendent Susan Castillo found the move to be a good idea as long as the moving costs do not override current program costs. It also said any savings should be reserved for programs for students with sensory impairments.

TEXAS SCHOOL HONORS RECORD-HOLDING LIFEGUARD

The Texas School for the Deaf honored alumnus Leroy Colombo over the weekend by naming their swimming center after him. The name change was approved last year by the Texas Legislature. Colombo (1905-74) became deaf and paralyzed at age 7 but built up his strength and learned to walk again through swimming, reported News 8 Austin. He became a lifeguard after leaving TSD at age 14, earning a place in the Guinness Book of World Records for saving over 900 lives. “Apparently he had no fear and he was a very skilled lifeguard,” said TSD superintendent Claire Bugen. A biography of Colombo can be seen here: www.workersforjesus.com/dfi/623.htm.

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

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITY!

Deafweekly has two openings for sponsors. As a sponsor, you get a banner ad on our home page, another banner ad on the Current News page, and a 100-word text ad in the weekly newspaper -- for about $46 a week. Deafweekly currently has about 5,175 subscribers, and the website gets about 5,000 page views per week. Not only will you get your message out to a large audience, you'll also be making it possible for thousands of readers to receive Deafweekly free of charge. For more information, please write to mail@deafweekly.com.

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

*WWW.DEAFPAGERS.COM <http://www.deafpagers.com/> **

*Father¹s Day Specials
June 12 ***June 22, 2006*

FREE Blackberry 7290! No rebate, no credit check & a FREE carrying case and car charger! Complete with a full, 1-year warranty, the Blackberry 7290 is truly a state-of-the-art device, perfect for Dad!

Waterproof Carrying Case for cell phone or pager, perfect for the beach, camping, and hiking! Easy to carry. Retail price: $19.95, your price only $9.95!

Mobo Eclipse Carrying Case for Sidekick II, available in black, brown, blue, green, or silver, this great case protects Dad¹s pager from bumps and bruises. And it looks good, too! Retail price $29.95, your price only $9.95!

www.DeafPagers.com <http://www.deafpagers.com/> is a Deaf owned and operated business in the heart of Washington, DC, proudly serving the Deaf and hard of hearing community. From pagers, cell phones, accessories and assistive devices, we have everything that Dad (or Mom)
could ever need. Visit us today!

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

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

TRIO STROLLS THROUGH CHINA ON CHARITY WALK

Three people from the U.K. raised more than £5,000 ($9,230 US) for deaf children by walking across China, reported icBerkshire.com. Lyndsey and Ruth Cunningham and Paul Dance walked up to eight hours a day for 10 days straight to raise money for the National Deaf Children’s Society, said the report, which added that Lyndsey and Ruth are sisters and Paul is Ruth’s boyfriend. “This was a real personal challenge for us,” said Lyndsey, who is deaf. “It was hard work but a great adventure, and we are delighted to have been able to raise money for deaf children and their families.”

POLICE OFFICER FOUND NOT GUILTY OF EXTORTION

A policeman accused of trying to blackmail his deaf former girlfriend with naked pictures was found not guilty at Peterhead Sheriff Court last Friday after a trial that lasted several months. George Hall, 44, had been charged with trying to extort money from Lynn Morrison, 33, and putting her “in a state of fear and alarm.” Morrison said in court through an interpreter that she and Hall took pictures of one another undressed and in the shower because “it was love.” After the pair split up in August 2004, Hall threatened to reveal the photographs publicly unless she paid him £300 ($555 US) within 10 days, Morrison claimed. Though he was found not guilty, Hall must wait and see if he can regain his job with Grampian Police.

MAN KNIFED IN SCOTTISH PUB IN FIGHT OVER POOL QUEUE

A deaf man was stabbed and left for dead in the bathroom of a Glasgow, Scotland pub, reported the Evening Times last week. Gordon Sellar was followed and attacked by Peter Bradley after an argument over whose turn it was to play pool, said the report. “Mr. Sellar was bleeding profusely from his injuries, but none of the patrons in the pub offered any assistance,” said prosecutor Kevin McCallum. Sellar took a taxi to the hospital and found that his chest wound was life-threatening. Bradley, interviewed by police, at first denied even being in the pub but later admitted to the assault. Judge Lady Dorrian will sentence him next month after officials decide if he poses a risk to the public.

AFRICAN TEEN WALKING ON TRACKS KILLED BY TRAIN

A deaf 16-year-old girl was killed instantly when a train ran over her in Thyolo, Malawi, in Africa, reported the Malawi Daily Times. The train’s engineer “tried in vain to hoot and brake” to avoid hitting Maureen Chikopa, but the girl was walking in the middle of the track with her back to the train and “died on the spot,” said a police officer. Fusilani Jeke, the victim’s brother-in-law, called on the public to stay away from train tracks. “I advise parents, guardians and relations that the mentally and physically challenged should not be left to walk along the railway track on their own,” he said. “This is very dangerous.”

++++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++++

ALARM CLOCKS ON SALE AT WCI IN JUNE!

Traveling this summer? Be sure to pack these handy alarm clocks! The Sonic Alert Travel & Bedside Clock features an easy-to-read display and powerful 12-volt shaker. Regularly $34.95, it’s now only $27.95! The SBP-100 Sonic Shaker includes travel case, pillow clasp, and one-year warranty. Retail price is $29.95 but it’s only $24.95 this month! Don’t let time run out!
Call 1-800-233-9130 (V/TTY) or visit us online at http://www.weitbrecht.com to order (use code WCI606D) . For a free WCI catalog, email sales@weitbrecht.com.

WCI. Providing Solutions for People with Hearing Loss.

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

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

CELL PHONE RING TONE ESCAPES OLDER EARS

The New York Times reported this week on a new ring tone for cell phones that many adults cannot hear. The technology relies on the fact that most adults gradually lose the ability to hear high-pitched sounds. “When I heard about it, I didn’t believe it at first,” said teacher Donna Lewis. “But one of the kids gave me a copy, and a colleague played it for her first graders. All of them could hear it, and neither she nor I could.” Students have begun to use the ring tone in classrooms where cell phones are not allowed. In a Rosyln High School class last week, a high-pitched ring tone went off that was heard by teacher Michelle Musorofiti, 28. “You can hear that?” asked one student. “Adults are not supposed to be able to hear that,” said another.

ACTIVIST CHOSEN GRAND MARSHALL OF SEATTLE PARADE

Dragonsani “Drago” Renteria, a “Deaf Queer/Trans activist who is passionate about making a difference,” has been chosen Honorary Grand Marshall of the Seattle Lesbian/Gay/Bisexual/Transgender (LGBT) Pride Parade. Renteria, founder of the national Deaf Queer Resource Center, has for 20 years “devoted a great portion of his time, energy and resources to educating others and creating change in our community,” said a statement. Renteria will also present a keynote speech from the main stage. The annual parade takes place Sunday, June 25 and is expected to attract 300,000 people. Parade information is at www.seattlepride.org and Renteria’s website is at http://drago.deafqueer.org.

‘FIRST DEAF SOCIAL NETWORK ON WEB’ IS LAUNCHED

A MySpace-like website for the deaf community was launched earlier this month, said a press release. TagDeaf, billed as” the first deaf social network on the Web,” was developed by Alex Chu, founder of the popular deaf forum www.All.Deaf.com. TagDeaf members are offered free registration, picture sharing, blogs, videos and games, forums, custom profiles, classifieds, instant messaging, groups and polls. They can also search for people with similar interests and invite others to the site. It’s all designed to “serve as a bridge to connect like-minded people,” said Chu. Check it out at www.TagDeaf.com.

CALIFORNIA SCHOOL TO OFFER STUDENTS ‘FIZZY FRUIT’

The Fizzy Fruit Company announced last week that its carbonated fresh fruit product will be served this fall to 450 students at the California School for the Deaf in Fremont. CSDF will be one of at least 38 school districts in 16 states to serve Fizzy Fruit as a healthy snack item in school breakfast and lunch programs, said a news release. A federal law requires all school districts to adopt a wellness policy by July 1 that sets guidelines on healthy eating and physical activity. The California school already had a wellness policy before it was required by law, said Diversity Student Specialist Len Gonzales. “Providing seasonal fruits at every meal is included and Fizzy Fruit is a part of the wellness plan,” he said.

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

NEED A VACATION THIS SUMMER?

Let us take care of your words.
www.tswriting.com

- Have urgent deadlines?
- Need ASL translated into English?
- Have a proposal you want someone to review?
- Unsure about a brochure or newsletter design?

If you need something done professionally and immediately, you've come to the right place!

Essays, resumes, letters, press releases, newsletters, proposals, ASL/English translations, brochure/logo design, and much more!

Visit our website to get a free estimate or set up a videophone appointment today.

NOTE NEW WEBSITE ADDRESS: www.tswriting.com

T.S. Writing Services, LLC*
Writing - Editing - Design - Translation
*A Deaf-owned company

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

With Hamilton Relay Wireless, there is no software to download!!

Hamilton Relay Wireless is available nationwide and does NOT require you to download any software. You could choose another Wireless Relay provider, but WHY?
No other provider makes using relay on the go so simple!
Place Hamilton relay calls with your Blackberry, Treo and Sidekick or with ANY device that runs AIM® or has a Wireless Access Protocol (WAP) browser!
How? With AIM®, send an instant message to HipRelay.
With a WAP browser, go to http://www.hamiltonrelay.com/.

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

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

TEACHER TURNED ENTREPRENEUR AWARDED $10,000

Michelle Tjelmeland was awarded $10,000 as this year’s Business Optimist Award recipient at the National Association of Women Business Owners conference June 3 in San Francisco. Tjelmeland was a middle-school teacher who lost her hearing while pregnant and “suffered another blow” when her daughter was born deaf, said a news release. She left teaching and got a master’s degree in computer technology, allowing her to start a profitable web development company and create the nonprofit Cochlear Implant Awareness Foundation. (Tjelmeland and her daughter both have cochlear implants.) The award, cosponsored by the Mirassou Winery, celebrates 150 years of winemaking by the Mirassou family, America’s oldest winemaking family. Among five finalists was Elizabeth Kay Chiodo of San Antonio, Texas, founder of Deaf Link Inc., which helps deaf people communicate in the workplace.

FUNDING AVAILABLE FOR WOMEN PURSUING PH.D. DEGREES

Deaf women who are pursuing Ph.D. degrees are encouraged to apply for the 2007 IADES Fellowship Award of $1,500. The fellowship is sponsored by the International Alumnae of Delta Epsilon Sorority, which has its roots at Gallaudet University, and has been awarded since 1989. The funds are intended for tuition costs only and will be sent directly to the recipient’s college or university in January to cover the 2007 spring academic year. Applicants must have at least 12 credits in a doctoral program with a GPA of 3.0 or better, and are required to include academic transcripts, proof of hearing loss and two letters of recommendation. September 8 is the application deadline. To request an application form, write to IADES Fellowship Award Committee, 9406 Steeple Court, Laurel, MD 20723.

FEDERAL GRANT BOOSTS ‘HYBRID IMPLANT’ RESEARCH

A $10.3 million federal grant announced last week will help the University of Iowa’s Cochlear Implant Clinical Research Center continue its work in hybrid implants, reported the Des Moines Register. Hybrid implants combine electrical hearing with patients’ residual hearing, allowing them to hear better and in noisier environments, said Bruce Gantz, the university’s head of otolaryngology. The new technology, so small that it does not destroy the inner ear, will soon be tested on children with partial hearing loss. “By saving the inner ear, children could take advantage of what’s next, which is regeneration,” said Gantz.

COMPANY DONATES BOOKS, VIDEOS TO KATRINA SURVIVORS

DawnSignPress announced this week that it has donated more than $4,000 worth of books and videos to 25 families who lost everything in Hurricane Katrina. DawnSignPress, a deaf-owned company founded in 1979 and based in San Diego, Calif., said the company’s largest one-time donation to individuals included a variety of American Sign Language books and videos for deaf toddlers and infants. Designated families received bags stuffed with products along with a personal letter from company president Joe Dannis. The donation resulted from a request by Donna Embree of the Louisiana School for the Deaf. Dannis said the request clearly showed “how important it was to replace lost materials and help families rebuild their sign language library.”

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

SUMMER IS HERE AND SO ARE THE SAVINGS!

Potomac Technology is offering 15% off all signalers during the entire month of June! That means every sound, telephone, and doorbell signaler or receiver is on sale. Save on top brands & latest models. WOW! Equip your home or office and save. Plus, get a free Panda Coffee Mug with a purchase of $100.00 or more! Call us now at 1-800-433-2838 (V/TTY) or visit online at http://potomactech.com (use code PTECD606 when ordering).

Potomac Technology. Everything You Need Under One Roof.

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

‘12 DAYS IN MAY’ MEMORABILIA AVAILABLE

Deafweekly has made it a bit easier to remember the Gallaudet University Protest of 2006. A unique headline-style design has been created that says “12 DAYS IN MAY: The World Hears Gallaudet University.” The design is available on a wide variety of products, including shirts, mugs, tiles, aprons, caps, tote bags, buttons, magnets, journals and small posters. For more information, visit www.cafepress.com/deafweekly.

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

Want a better IP relay option? Try i711.com and go beyond plain IP relay.

IP relay service is old news, right? Not anymore! If you haven't tried i711.com, you're missing out on an IP relay service that gives you faster, easier relay calls, and a whole lot more.

Only i711.com offers you all this:

** Smart Dialing ** A built-in phone book, one-step redialing, and speed dialing let you make most of your calls in just one click.

** Custom Calling ** Choose how your call happens. Font size, color, and more. Even pre-enter operator instructions for any call.

** Bonus Features ** Only i711.com gives you a bonus! New community articles each week by deaf authors. Exclusive call tools like the i711.com Toolbar with ClickRelay(tm). Even a customized list of open-captioned movies playing near you, updated every time you sign in.

AIM calls? Yes. Wireless options? You bet! Say goodbye to old fashioned IP relay. Try i711.com and experience better IP relay.

Visit www.i711.com and try it for yourself.

i711.com is Relay & Beyond

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

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

DEAF DIRECTOR’S FILM WINS PRESTIGIOUS TELLY AWARD

Deaf film director Gary Brooks “pretty much almost hit the floor in shock” when he learned recently that his 80-minute film, “Dr. Hand,” won a Bronze Telly in the 27th annual Telly Awards. Dr. Hand, which Brooks financed himself and filmed on Saturdays for 13 months, placed in the Outstanding Children’s Audience category out of 12,500 entries. The widely known Telly Awards are judged by a prestigious panel of previous Telly Award winners, with entries competing against a high standard of excellence. “It’s such a tremendous, huge honor to receive this award,” said Brooks. To learn more, visit www.blueapplefilms.com.

12 WEEKS OF LEARNING CULMINATE IN DRAMA FESTIVAL

The 22nd Deaf Kids Drama Festival took place Saturday at Seattle Children’s Theatre, attracting more than 40 deaf and hard-of-hearing students from five area schools. According to the Seattle Post-Intelligencer, the students spent 12 weeks learning all aspects of theater, from scriptwriting to acting to costuming. The SCT’s Deaf Youth Drama Program was started in 1993 by deaf theater artists and brothers Billy and Howie Seago and allows students to showcase their talents twice a year. Billy Seago said hearing people enjoy the shows just as much as deaf audiences. “It is always such an eye-opening experience for hearing kids,” he said.

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

Have you seen ASL Comedian Keith Wann perform?

And his explosive energy on stage described as controlled chaos.
Did you see his video clip about Deaf technology?
And his observations on ASL students.
Did you see the interpreter's nightmare with the rap music?
Deaf Church? Video Relay? or Flashing Lights?
Now you can see all these and more when you buy the DVD, "Watching Two Worlds Collide."
About growing up in the Deaf World and being a Coda.
Visit www.keithwann.com to order your DVD. 85 minutes of ASL comedy!
Performed in ASL, and voice interpreted for signing-impaired.

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

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

DEAFLYMPICS OFFICIALS FACE ‘ANXIOUS MOMENTS’

Organizers of the upcoming 16th Winter Deaflympics, set for February in Utah, had a few anxious moments recently, reported The Salt Lake Tribune. One problem concerned the use of the “lympics” term. While the International Olympic Committee allows the term Deaflympics, the situation is complicated in the U.S. due to the lack of government funding and need for corporate support. Attorneys worked out an agreement that allows February’s event to proceed while protecting U.S. Olympic Committee’s interests. (The Deaflympics can’t, for example, sign a sponsor that competes with Olympic sponsor Visa.) Also, the Utah Office of Tourism has been slow to turn over $100,000 pledged for out-of-state promotions after having trouble contacting organizers and wondering if plans were falling apart. In response, organizers provided a list of 17 events they attended this spring to promote the event and another 12 they will go to in the next six months. About 4,000 room nights have already been booked at Little America Hotel, which will serve as Deaflympics headquarters, said a hotel spokeswoman.

PAN AMERICAN GAMES ON TRACK TO KICK OFF JULY 30

Everything is on track for the 2006 Pan American Games for Deaf Youth, which will be held at Gallaudet University in Washington, D.C. from July 30 to August 6. The games include basketball and track & field (athletics) and will feature 350 athletes from four countries: Canada, Mexico, Venezuela and the U.S. Organizers are seeking merchants to set up booths for two days (August 4-5); it costs $100 and Brent Nowak (kawon@aol.com) can provide the form. Volunteers are also needed; contact Sean Moore at srm@tmail.com. Sponsorship opportunities may be discussed with Bridget Bonheyo (bbonheyo@b-bpro.com). The game’s website can be found at www.usdeafsports.org/2006youth.

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

BRIAN SHOMO, 49, RAN NEW JERSEY DIVISION OF THE DEAF

Brian Cyril Shomo, 49, of Ewing, N.J., died Saturday at a Trenton hospital after a brief battle with cancer. Mr. Shomo, was director of the New Jersey State Division of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing since July 2001 and supported many organizations for the deaf and hard of hearing, reported the East Brunswick Home News Tribune. Mr. Shomo earned a bachelor’s degree from Gallaudet University and a master’s degree from California State University-Northridge in psychology. Visitation will take place tomorrow at Braun Funeral Home in Eatontown, with a funeral service set for 11 a.m. Friday. For more information, including memorial donations to the Brian C. Slomo Scholarship Fund, visit www.state.nj.us/humanservices/ddhh/bio.html.

SALLY MONAHAN, 49, SCHOOL GUIDANCE COUNSELOR

Sally Monahan, 49, a guidance counselor for 16 years at the St. Rita School for the Deaf in Cincinnati, Ohio, died Friday, May 19 at a hospice of uterine leiomyosarcoma, a rare cancer that spread to her lungs. Mrs. Monahan, a sign-language interpreter, directed the school’s Hands of Love choir and developed a course in American Sign Language at Xavier University. She also interpreted for two churches. “The kids loved her,” school spokeswoman Angela Frith told The Enquirer. Memorial donations may be sent to Sally’s Caring Hands Scholarship, St. Rita School for the Deaf, 1720 Glendale-Milford Road, Cincinnati, OH 45215.

JAMES ZUSI, 64, CHURCH DEACON, GALLAUDET FUND RAISER

James Michael Zusi, 64, a church deacon in Frederick, Md. for 17 years who “touched the hearts of many deaf parishioners,” died Sunday, May 21 after a two-year battle with cancer, reported the Frederick News-Post. Mr. Zusi became interested in the deaf community in the late 1990s through a granddaughter who had a hearing loss, said Eileen Colarusso, coordinator of pastoral ministry for persons who are deaf. He worked for several years as a fund raiser for Gallaudet University, guiding people who wanted to donate to the university through trusts or estates. Known for his bow ties, Mr. Zusi “handled his illness with dignity, courage, strength and faith,” said the Rev. Wayne Funk of St. John the Evangelist Roman Catholic Church. “I do believe an angel sent him to do his part by giving his big heart to deaf people in Maryland,” said Tammy Shemanske, a deaf parishioner.

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

SOBERCAMP 2006 - August 20-26 - Camp Mark Seven Old Forge, NY

SoberCamp returns to Camp Mark Seven (CM7) in Old Forge New York once again! Signs of Sobriety, Inc. and SAISD are collaborating to coordinate an exciting retreat for people who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing in recovery from substance abuse and their families. Sobriety maintenance focused activities for the week will include fun outdoor recreation, team building games, family/relationship bonding, 12 Step meetings and more. This is an event not to be missed.

Requirements For Attending SoberCamp 2006

At least 30 days sober/clean time (no drug or alcohol use for at least 30 days)

Individuals must be Deaf or Hard of Hearing
(Hearing family members or spouses may attend as a guest)

SOBERCAMP 2006 REGISTRATION INFORMATION:

$25 non-refundable registration fee (will be applied to full camp cost)

Children = $60
Adults = $250
Before Apr 1= $175
April 1- May 1= $200
May 1- Aug 7= $250

Registration fees include 3 nights at the lodge at Camp Mark Seven and all meals.

Additional activities such as water tubing, canoeing, and shopping trips to the town of Old Forge are the responsibility of the “campers.”

For more information, please feel free to visit sos website: www.signsofsobriety.org
Or contact:

Mike Dorsey, MSW
Signs of Sobriety, Inc.
100 Scotch Road, 2nd Floor
Ewing, NJ 08530
609-882-7177 - TTY
Phone: 609-882-7677 voice
Fax: 609-882-6808
Email: mike.dorsey@signsofsobriety.org

Wendy DiMatteo
SAISD (Substance and Alcohol Intervention Services for the Deaf)
115 Lomb Memorial Drive, Bldg 23A
Rochester NY 14624
Phone: 585 475 4963
Fax: 585 475 7375
Email: wmdgrl@rit.edu

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

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

POSITION ANNOUNCEMENT

POSITION: Residential/Recreational Counselor - Evenings

TO BE FILLED BY: September 1, 2006

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:
Supervises assigned residential students in dormitory setting or both day and residential students in the Recreation Center from 2:00 p.m. - 12:00 a.m. Monday through Thursday evenings.
Provides general supervision during the out of school hours for a group of deaf students to insure a climate for intellectual, social, and emotional growth.
Provides training, guidance, and counseling for a group of deaf students in the areas of: social interaction, personal hygiene, responsibility and freedom, homework; making constructive use of leisure time; and respect for privacy and belongings of others and self.
Maintains a close working relationship with and accepts guidance from the Senior Residential or Recreational Counselor and Director of Student Life.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
Bachelor's Degree in Child Development or Associate's Degree in Human Services with experience working with deaf children
Advanced Rating on the Sign Communication Proficiency Interview (SCPI)

FILE APPLICATION WITH:
Harold Mowl, Jr., Superintendent/CEO
Rochester School for the Deaf
1545 St. Paul Street
Rochester, NY 14621

CLOSING DATE: June 23, 2006

Applications received will be screened and the most highly qualified will be asked to interview.

RSD is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in employment on the basis of non-qualifying disability, race, religion, color, sex, marital status, age, national origin, and veteran status.

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

POSITION ANNOUNCEMENT

POSITION: American Sign Language (ASL) Teacher

TO BE FILLED BY: September 1, 2006

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:
Teach ASL courses; teach ASL to students in an individual or small group setting; provide ASL assessments to intake students and serve as a sign language tutor for students with limited ASL skills; serve as ASL teacher and mentor to RSD staff; present short-term seminars on ASL grammar and related topics; and perform other related duties.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
Master's Degree
New York State certification as a teacher of the Deaf or in second language teaching
American Sign Language Teachers Association (ASLTA) certification
Three to five years of successful teaching experience.
Superior Rating on the Sign Communication Proficiency Interview (SCPI)

FILE APPLICATION WITH:
Harold Mowl, Jr., Superintendent/CEO
Rochester School for the Deaf
1545 St. Paul Street
Rochester, NY 14621

CLOSING DATE: June 23, 2006

Applications received will be screened and the most highly qualified will be asked to interview.

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

POSITION ANNOUNCEMENT

POSITION: Teacher, Elementary Department

TO BE FILLED BY: September 1, 2006

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:
Teach a variety of courses to Deaf students. Primary focus is in the Elementary Department. Participate in weekly team meetings with other staff members to plan programs, behavior management techniques, and strategies for student success. Follow required NYS curriculum standards and prepare students for required NYS assessment tests. Write and implement student Imp's.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
Bachelor's or Master's Degree in Education of the Deaf or Elementary Education.
New York State certification as a teacher or the ability to obtain same.
Previous experience working with Deaf students and classroom integration of technology.
Advanced Rating on the SCPI.

FILE APPLICATION WITH:
Harold Mowl, Jr., Superintendent/CEO
Rochester School for the Deaf
1545 St. Paul Street
Rochester, NY 14621

CLOSING DATE: June 23, 2006

Applications received will be screened and the most highly qualified will be asked to interview.

RSD is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in employment on the basis of non-qualifying disability, race, religion, color, sex, marital status, age, national origin, and veteran status.

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

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

Position: Community Marketing Manager (F/T)
Location: Hackensack, NJ

This position is responsible for creating and managing the company’s community marketing team. The community marketing manager, together with the community marketing team, will maintain, build a preference for, and cultivate awareness and adoption of the company’s relay and wireless brands within the company’s targeted regions. The community marketing manager will also play a public role within the community, delivering company messaging to community influencers and advocacy groups.

This position has five central responsibilities; to (i) co-develop and refine a community marketing plan and support tools; (ii) develop, manage and deploy GoAmerica’s Community Marketing Team; (iii) select, staff and travel to events; (iv) promote brand awareness and preference with the community; and (v) generate sales, leads, and assist with customer satisfaction.

QUALIFICATIONS:
-- 3-5 years of demonstrated success in a sales, marketing, or outreach role within the deaf community
-- Impeccable management and interpersonal skills, and a passion for developing and coaching people
-- Must possess the energy, effervescence, and verve necessary to recruit, inspire, and motivate a nationwide community marketing team
-- Ideal candidate must enjoy technology and its use in building bridges between the deaf, hard of hearing, and hearing communities
-- A solid understanding of the deaf and hard of hearing communities and their various cultural strata, advocacy organizations, and community influencers, online and off line.
-- Must be conversant in American Sign Language (ASL).
-- Must be a polished presenter and comfortable with giving live presentations to large groups of people of mixed hearing levels.
-- Must possess current, positive relationships within the deaf community and among current and proposed market influencers, partners, and customers.
-- Must have solid written and verbal or signed communications skills.
-- Must be able to work with minimum supervision and be proficient with Microsoft Office applications and using the Internet.

We offer competitive salaries and a comprehensive benefits package.
Please submit your resume or application to: hr@goamerica.com

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

CEO Position Announcement
Deaf Counseling, Advocacy and Referral Agency (DCARA)

DCARA is seeking a Chief Executive Officer to build on over 40 years of continuous growth and evolution of the non-profit, community-based social service agency. DCARA serves the Deaf Community in the San Francisco Bay Area and 14 counties in Northern California. The CEO will be responsible for all aspects of the agency’s operations, programs, finances, and personnel. To see the full job announcement including information about DCARA, minimum qualifications and application process, visit http://www.dcara.org. CLOSING DATE: Open until filled.

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

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.

LIFESIGNS Director - Los Angeles
Network I.T. Administrator - Los Angeles

If interested for 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

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

Click here to subscribe or here to advertise.