Deafweekly June 27, 2012

deafweekly

June 27, 2012
Vol. 8, No. 33

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 2012 and any unauthorized use is prohibited. Please support our advertisers; they make it possible for you to receive Deafweekly.

SIGN UP HERE for a free subscription. Be sure to open the confirmation email and click on the link to activate your subscription. It is required by law and prevents others from signing you up without your permission.

ADDRESS CHANGES are self serve. Simply unsubscribe using the link at the bottom of every newsletter, then sign up for a subscription with your new address.

Last issue's most-read story: DEAF IN PRISON: PRISON LIFE AND THE AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT / CrimeDime
Last week's website page views: 4,820
Deafweekly subscribers as of today: 4,804

ADVERTISE IN DEAFWEEKLY FOR $20 OR LESS PER WEEK

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

Pinellas Park, FL
MAN FATALLY STABS HEARING-IMPAIRED VICTIMS
Hector Ortiz uses sign language to explain to friends and neighbors what happened. He was the only one home, not injured when a man came inside this group home for the hearing impaired Friday morning and started stabbing. "He used a knife, a big knife ... a huge knife," says Pinellas Sheriff Bob Gualtieri. Justin Lee Vandenburgh, 22, and Hector's mother, 59-year-old Mary Anne Allis were both killed, stabbed multiple times in the attack. Two other women including 43-year-old Janice Rhoden were seriously wounded. / 9news.com

See Also WOMAN LOSES HER MOTHER AND A FRIEND IN MURDEROUS RAMPAGE / Bay News 9

Rochester, NY
BUS MONITOR KAREN KLEIN RECEIVES OUTPOURING OF SUPPORT AFTER BEING ABUSED BY MIDDLE-SCHOOL BULLIES
A recently discovered YouTube video of 68-year-old hearing-impaired school bus monitor Karen Klein being harassed and abused by middle school age boys recently went viral. Klein sits quietly as students call her fat, accuse her of pedophilia, tell her she's poor, and tell her that her son, who committed suicide ten years ago, killed himself because he didn't want to be near her. / Pop2it

Los Angeles, CA
FEDERAL JUDGE DENIES MOTION TO DISMISS CLOSED CAPTIONING LAWSUIT
A federal judge in Massachusetts has denied Netflix Inc.'s request to throw out a lawsuit brought by the National Assn. for the Deaf, which alleges that the service discriminates against the deaf and hard of hearing by failing to provide closed captioning on all of the movies and TV shows available through its Internet streaming service. The case, filed last year by the civil rights group, alleges Netflix's popular "Watch Instantly" service failed to offer closed captioning on "the vast majority" of its ever-growing library of movies and TV shows that can be watched via the Internet on demand. / Los Angeles Times

Little Rock, AR
SIGNS OF FAVORITISM
Two people trained to read sign language claim they were beaten out for a job by a candidate who isn't qualified. The job pays about $35,000 a year and is essential to those who need it. Arkansas Rehabilitation Services (ARS) helps disabled people get jobs. But it is one of the agency's own hires that is now cause for concern. Two applicants for a recent interpreter job fear that the candidate who got the job…can't do the job. / KATV

Middletown, PA
FUNDING WOES FORCE CLOSURE OF VALLEY VIEW
Elwyn is closing its on-campus Valley View residential facility and program for 40 deaf and deaf-blind senior citizens, because of a gap of about $800,000 between revenue from the commonwealth and the funding needed to make the program sustainable. Elwyn President Dr. Sandra Cornelius announced on Tuesday that the board of directors voted, with regret, to close Valley View and transition its residents within 90 days. / Delaware County Daily Times

St. Augustine, FL
DEAF MAN ACCUSED OF ATTACKING TEEN
A St Johns County deaf man is in police custody, accused of forcing a 13-year-old boy to perform oral sex on him. William Muse, 25, faces felony charges of sexual battery and lewd and lascivious behavior. Police say Muse actually reported the incident himself, but claimed the 13-year-old stalked him, forced him into a parking garage, then claimed the boy fondled him. Police quickly figured out Muses' story just didn't ad up. It was the other way around. / ActionNewsJax.com

Austin, TX
THE COURT OF PUBLIC OPINION PREVAILS IN FREQUENT FLYER DEAF STUDENT SUIT
The court of public opinion, having reached a verdict, will now come to order in the case of the mom who wanted the Rapid Rewards points from the plane tickets the Texas School for the Deaf bought for her daughter. The verdict against the mom was loud and clear, loud and clear enough for her lawyer to hear it and recommend dropping the federal lawsuit stemming from the battle. The verdict was pretty much unanimous and summed up in the subject line of one reader's email to me: "Rapid Rewards nutcase lady." / Austin American-Statesman

Springfield, IL
LETTER: FAULTS BUREAUCRACY FOR ISD/ISVI ISSUES
As an editor of the Illinois School for the Deaf Alumni Association’s newsletter Tiger Times, I was preparing my column when the news came out that our beloved superintendent, Marybeth Lauderdale, had submitted her retirement to the state of Illinois and accepted a position as the director of Western Pennsylvania School for the Deaf in Pittsburgh. It is a huge loss for the deaf community all over the state of Illinois. It is due to the terrible bureaucracy of the state of Illinois in making this happen. / The State Journal-Register

West Hartford, CT
LT. GOV. NANCY WYMAN SPEAKS AT AMERICAN SCHOOL FOR THE DEAF GRADUATION
The American School for the Deaf held its 195th commencement exercises on June 19, 2012. Lieutenant Governor Nancy Wyman was in attendance; she commented how much she admires she enjoys coming to this graduation and how humbled she is to see the accomplishments of deaf and hard of hearing students and what they can aspire in the future. / Patch.com

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

Experience the superior quality of Sorenson Communications ntouch ® VP, ntouch® PC and ntouch® Mobile - products designed specifically for deaf communication, with input from deaf consumers. With technology optimized for American Sign Language, Sorenson provides unmatched video clarity, making communication easy and the ntouch VP attaches to nearly any size screen. As always, ntouch products are provided at no cost, and experienced Sorenson Trainers make installation and training worry free. More deaf callers use Sorenson Communications than any other provider, and for good reason. Sorenson offers quality, service, reliability and innovative products. To get ntouch products, visit www.svrs.com/ntouch or call 801-386-8500 today and experience the power of your world in touch!

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

UK Feature:

If you’re living in the United Kingdom and think you're suffering from hearing loss, or just want a new hearing aid, visit Amplifon - for Hearing Aids and more.

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

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

Manchester, England
MAN DENIES ABUSING DEAF GIRL IN CELLAR
A man has denied forcing a deaf girl to live in the cellar of his home where she was allegedly beaten, raped and treated as his virtual slave from the age of 10. Ilyas Ashar, 83, rejected claims he abused the girl and told a court the alleged victim was happy to work for him, and he had treated her like a daughter. The girl, an orphan from Pakistan who is profoundly deaf and cannot speak, was allegedly trafficked into the UK in June 2000. For almost a decade she was forced to live and work in the cellar, where she was locked up at night and slept on a concrete floor, the jury was told. / The Guardian

London, England
EXCLUSIVE LONDON 2012 FESTIVAL COMMISSIONS SHOWCASE AT DADAFEST 2012
In the run up to the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games, DaDaFest 2012 is proud to announce their collaboration with the London 2012 Festival, the spectacular 12-week nationwide celebration running from June 21 until September 9 bringing together leading artists from across the world with the very best from the UK. DaDaFest 2012, The UK’s leading disability and deaf arts festival will feature a ground breaking exhibition which is a part of the London 2012 Festival. / Click Liverpool

Stroud, England
DEAF SPORTS STAR TO HANG UP HER HAMMER AFTER WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP
Deaf sportswoman Beth Sewell will represent Great Britain for the final time at world championships in Canada next month. Hammer thrower Beth, 30, from Cashes Green in Stroud, will be financially supported by the Meningitis Trust when she competes in the World Deaf Athletics in Toronto. But after the challenge Beth, who lost her hearing after she suffered meningitis as a baby, will step down from professional sport. "While I still hope to throw further and maybe even get a British deaf record before I retire, I think the time has come to step aside," she said. / This is Gloucestershire

Coldstream, BC, Canada
PRESSURE GROWS FOR VIDEO SERVICE FOR DEAF
North Okanagan politicians are making some noise over a lack of communications for the deaf. Regional District of North Okanagan directors will write the MP, MLA, prime minister and the Canadian Radio Television Telecommunications Commission demanding a permanent video relay service for deaf and hard of hearing people in Canada. “Let’s just bombard them (with letters),” said director Shirley Fowler. / Vernon Morning Star

Montreal, QC, Canada
MONTREAL HOUSING COMPLEX FOR THE DEAF NOW OPEN
An affordable housing complex for the deaf - the first of its kind in Canada - has officially opened in Montreal. La Maison des Sourds offers sixty apartment units for the hearing impaired, and their families. Apartments include special services such as video intercoms, and strobe-light doorbells. / CBC News

Melbourne, Australia
LAUGHING THUG BASHED DEAF MAN FOR PIZZA
A Melbourne man says a brutal attack on his hearing-impaired son over a pizza was beyond understanding and the attacker might strike again.Eion Murphy, 20, is recovering from his injuries after being assaulted in the inner suburb of Clifton Hill about 6.30pm on Sunday, June 3 after picking up a pizza. Police say he was heading to his local milk bar to buy a drink when an attacker kicked him twice in the stomach. The attacker laughed and fled with the pizza. Mr Murphy spent five days in St Vincent's Hospital being treated for a lacerated liver and internal bleeding. / Herald Sun

North Dinajpur, India
DEAF-MUTE ATHLETE RAPED IN N DINAJPUR, ACCUSED HELD
A 25-year-old deaf and mute girl was allegedly raped by an auto-rickshaw driver at Hemtabad area in North Dinajpur district, the police said. The accused auto-rickshaw driver, 28-year-old Ranjit Das, has been arrested. The incident reportedly took place when the girl -- a state-level athlete -- was returning from her sports practice at Surjodoi deaf and dumb home in Raigunj on the evening of June 24. / Indian Express

Hefei, China
DISABLED COUPLE COMPILE ENCYCLOPEDIA FOR THE DEAF
The first encyclopedic dictionary for the country's 20 million deaf and hear-impaired people was published early June, its compilers, a disabled couple in east Anhui province, told Xinhua Thursday. The 200,000-word reference book embodies more than 1,000 entries about medicine, education, psychology, sociology, rehabilitation, linguistics, law, history and culture concerning the life of deaf people, according to the couple living in the provincial capital of Hefei. / Anhui News

Naga City, Philippines
TRICYCLE DRIVER IN COLLISION WAS DEAF
Tricycle driver Danilo Doroteo did not hear the Manila-bound Bicol Express train coming and it proved disastrous. It turned out that Doroteo was hearing-impaired and by the time he realized he was directly on the path of the train, it was too late. The impact of the collision was so strong, Doroteo and his children—Kimberly, 13, and Kent Lester, 12, both high school students—died instantly. Two other passengers, a public school teacher and a student, died later in the hospital. / Inquirer

Pataling Jaya, Malaysia
DEAF ART EXHIBITION NEXT WEEK
The Deaf Art Expose II 2012 is back this year to showcase various works, from murals to oil paintings and abstract art, created by Malaysian deaf artists. The exhibition, organised by RC Deaf Missions Malaysia, will display pieces by three artists, namely Anuar Shahren, Zulaiha Zulkapli and Shahwal Nizam, said the NGO’s founder Agnes Peters. “What we want to do is show everyone their abilities as artists even though they may be deaf, and that they have much to contribute to our world. / The Sun Daily

Nairobi, Kenya
DEAF ATHLETICS RECEIVES SH17 MILLION WINDFALL
The Government and the National Bank of Kenya have donated Sh17 million ($206,000 US) for the Second World Deaf Athletics Championship in Toronto, Canada, from July 12-22. The Government and the National Bank will reward winning athletes from the Canada championship. Each will receive Sh300,000 ($3,600 US) for gold, Sh200,000 ($2,400 US) for silver, and Sh100,000 ($1,200 US) for bronze won. / Standard

Mbabane, Swaziland
EX-MISS DEAF'S BABY DADDY'S FIRST PUBLIC APPEARANCE
The father of former Miss Deaf Simphiwe Magagula’s baby made his first public appearance at the weekend. Bus conductor Sihle Dlamini attended the second regional Millers Karaoke Talent Competition on Saturday evening. Magagula made headlines early this year when news broke that she had been impregnated by a bus conductor, who declared his undying love for the former beauty queen. / The Swazi Observer

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

We're now the ~only~ VRS company still on iChat.

IM screennames from other VRS companies have permanently shut down… but ConvoIM is still running 24/7.

With ConvoIM, you still have the convenience of using VRS on iChat. :)

http://convorelay.com/switchtoconvoim.html

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

CELEBRATE YOUR INDEPENDENCE WITH THE SONIC RING VIDEO PHONE SIGNALER!

Not sure what type of incoming call you’re getting? Your solution is the Sonic Ring Video Phone Signaler, now on sale at 20% off through the month of July. Select a unique flash pattern for your telephone, TTY, fax or videophone with a flip of a switch! For more information and to order call us at 1-800-233-9130 (V/TTY) or visit us at http://www.weitbrecht.com/sonic-ring-video_phone-signaler.html. For a copy of our catalog, email: sales@weitbrecht.com.

WCI. Your Single Source for Assistive Technology

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

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

Chicago, IL
DEAF STUDENT BIKES SOLO ACROSS AMERICA
Ronnie Cuatero and several deaf friends planned to bike from New York to California together. But as the end of the quarter drew near, the Rochester Institute of Technology students began to back out one by one. Not Ronnie. He was determined to ride across America, but he would have to do it solo. For 14 days, he churned the pedals over and over, averaging 80 to 100 miles per day. Along the way, strangers reached out, offering him drinks and food. / Barefoot In The Burbs

See Also ONE DEAF MAN, ONE BICYCLE, AND ACROSS AMERICA / Tumblr.com

Lakeside, AZ
SUMMER CAMP IS ON (THANK YOU, ARIZONA)
On Wednesday, the call went out. A summer camp for disabled children was about to be cancelled. The camp was $16,000 short, you see, and money doesn’t grow on trees, not even the glorious Ponderosa pines that adorn the 88-acre spread of Lions Camp Tatiyee. The camp had until last Saturday to raise the cash or pull the plug on its final session of the summer, the one for deaf and hearing-impaired children. Camp director Pam Swanson was dreading the calls she would have to make to the 50 or so children. / AZ Central.com

Morgantown, WV
COMMUNITY MUSIC PROGRAM HELPING BABIES VOCALIZE
On the outside, Amalie Jacks is a normal, healthy 15-month-old. "She is deaf, she will always be deaf, but she can hear as long as she has the cochlear implant device," said her mother, Lynnsey Jacks. After she got the implants at 10 months old, Amalie started hearing her first sounds at 11 months. Now, she's even talking!" And thanks to the community music program at WVU, Amalie, along with other normal hearing children, are gaining a greater appreciation for the world of music. / WBOY-TV

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

Use Hamilton Web Relay® to make and receive calls over the Internet in a private environment, separate from buddy lists and potential disruptions. There’s nothing to download -- it’s all web-based making the service available wherever you can connect to the Internet!

Now you can receive calls with a locally-based, 10-digit Hamilton HomeTown Number™.

Don't have a HomeTown Number? Register today and share your number with friends and colleagues! Visit http://www.hamiltonrelay.com and click on the "Make & Receive Calls Now" icon to check it out.

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

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

Everyone deserves legal protection.

And now, with LegalShield, everyone can access it. No matter how traumatic. No matter how trivial. Whatever your situation, we are here to help. From real estate to divorce advice, identity theft and beyond, we have your
rights covered.

Welcome to total peace of mind. Welcome to LegalShield. Worry less. Live more. A small monthly fee gets you access to a quality law firm in your area. Call about anything you want. It's that simple. Just contact your provider firm directly to speak to a lawyer in your area that is experienced in all fields of law. We even provide 24/7 access for emergencies.

For more information go to www.ASLLegalShield.com, VP 727-231-4731
Independent Associate Keith Wann, 212-920-4985 text

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

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

Brentwood, MO
DEAF 75-YEAR-OLD MAN LOOKS FOR WORK
Almost every day Joe Falgier hopes that this will be the day his job hunt will finally end. But it’s not easy in this economy. Especially if you're 75 years old. “I would actually hire him if I had a business and I could offer him a job”, says Judy Larson, the Mers Goodwill employment specialist helping Joe in his job search. And even if Joe can get a possible employer to ignore his age. Joe is deaf and that has been a challenge for possible employment. “There really is no reason why my age or my deafness should stand in my way”, says Joe. / FOX2now.com

West Bloomfield, MI
GOOD VIBRATIONS: BONE CONDUCTION IS KEY TO LATEST INNOVATION IN HEARING AIDS
Sara McGowen sat in a chair at Henry Ford Hospital as a team of doctors and technicians put a hearing aid in her mouth, positioning it on her teeth. McGowen, 34, of Grand Blanc had been deaf in her left ear for more than five years; the hearing loss came after surgery to remove a tumor on her acoustic nerve. It was early February and a doctor whispered in McGowen's left ear: "What did you eat for breakfast?" McGowen was stunned. She thought she heard something, but she wasn't sure. "Can I hear you?" she asked. "Yes," she was told. / Detroit Free Press

Farmingdale, NY
MAXIAIDS PRODUCTS FOR INDEPENDENT LIVING HONORED BY HELEN KELLER NATIONAL CENTER
MaxiAids Products for Independent Living, a supplier of products for the visually and hearing impaired as well as seniors, was recognized this month by The Helen Keller National Center (HKNC) for their work with the deaf-blind community. In noting the company's accomplishments, HKNC issued a certificate of appreciation citing MaxiAids' "participation in and innovative contributions to the Helen Keller Vocational Training Program and to individuals who are deaf-blind." / Healthcare Global

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

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!

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

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

Crescent Springs, OH
HARD-OF-HEARING GIRL SPEAKS WITH HER ART
Local high school sophomore Lindsay Culp is headed to Louisville next week to share her artwork with a national audience. The 15-year-old Dixie Heights High School student, who was born hard of hearing, is one of six students from across the commonwealth selected as a winner in the “Communication: Every Word Matters” art contest. Lindsay’s artwork, titled “Hear No Evil/Speak No Evil/See No Evil,” was chosen as a winner in the high school category in the K-12 art contest that’s presented annually by the Kentucky Center on Deafness and the Kentucky Commission on the Deaf and Hard of Hearing. / Cincinnati Enquirer

New London, CT
LITTLE THEATRE OF THE DEAF TO PRESENT 'STORIES IN MY POCKET TOO'
The National Theatre of the Deaf is delighted to be the recipient of a grant from The City of New London Water Authority Community Fund for performances that will feature the Little Theatre of the Deaf company in their family-oriented production Stories In My Pocket Too during the month of August 2012 in a collaborative partnership with Hygienic Art at the Hygienic Art Park. The check was presented to NTD Executive Director, Betty Beekman along with other grant recipients at the annual festivities held on June 18, 2012 in the New London City Council Chambers. / Broadway World

West River, MD
DEAF-BLIND CAMP IN MARYLAND GIVES ADULTS A CHANCE TO LEARN, PLAY
Every summer deaf-blind individuals travel from across the country to spend a week in Anne Arundel County. Their destination? The Deaf-Blind Camp of Maryland -- a place where they step outside of their comfort zone physically and mentally. Whether it's soaring through the air on a giant swing or bouncing across the water on a banana boat, the camp encourages campers with total or partial hearing and vision loss to step outside their comfort zone. / WJLA

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

Fragrant ILY Soap at Harris Communications

For special occasions or gift baskets, Harris Communications has beautiful, fragrant soap in the shape of the ILY sign. The “I Love You” soaps are made of pure glycerin and are available in these colors and scents:

Blue with a jasmine scent (N514)
Green with an apple scent (N515)
Purple with a lavender scent (N516)
Pink with a strawberry scent (N517)
Yellow with a lemon scent (N518)

The individual soaps cost $2.75 each. You can also buy an Economy Soap Package (N519) which includes 2 of each color for only $23.95.

Go to http://bit.ly/HarrisComm_DW062412 or contact us at mailto:info@harriscomm.com.

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

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

Los Angeles, CA
MOTO X RIDER ASHLEY FIOLEK FORCED OUT OF 2012 X GAMES AFTER CONCUSSION
Two-time X Games Moto X gold medalist Ashley Fiolek will be shut out of the X Games medal race for the second consecutive year. Fiolek, 21, pulled herself out of competition after consulting with her doctors because she had not sufficiently recovered from a concussion she suffered in a crash on June 2 at WMX Moto 2 in Lakewood, Colo. "It is with great sadness that I must withdraw from the 2012 ESPN X Games, I am absolutely heartbroken that I will miss this year but I need to do what is right for my health and my future," Fiolek said in a statement released by her family. / ESPN

See Also ASHLEY FIOLEK BECOMES FIRST DEAF GUEST TO APPEAR ON 'CONAN' / ESPN

See Also SWITCHED AT BIRTH -- CASTING NEWS -- ASHLEY FIOLEK TO GUEST / Spoiler TV

Omaha, NE
4 TUCSON SWIMMERS REACH FINAL AT SWIM TRIALS
Four Ford/Zona swimmers advanced to the final round on day one of the U.S. Olympic Trials on Monday in Omaha, Neb. Marcus Titus [deaf], Kevin Cordes and Clark Burckle all survived through preliminary and semifinal rounds in the men's 100 breaststroke to make up three of the eight competitors in a Tuesday night final. The top two finishers in each event will qualify for the Olympic Games in London next month. [Ed.note: Titus finished 8th last night, just 0.79 seconds behind 2nd place. He will compete tomorrow night in the 200m breaststroke.] / Fox Sports Arizona

Green, OH
DEAF SOCCER PLAYER SETS SIGHTS ON INTERNATIONAL TOURNAMENT
Stacy Messner describes her life as “a story of overcoming a lot.” “Things that most people never have to experience in their lifetime,” she said. Messner, now 24, hopes that her successes in conquering adversity have prepared her to represent the United States in an international competition on the soccer field next month. / Akron Beacon Journal

Mill Run, PA
CHIPS FLY SILENTLY AT DEAF TIMBERFEST
When Ron Markel attended the world pro lumberjack event 15 years ago, he noticed that there were no interpreters and thus no way for deaf people to participate. “We decided to found our own world deaf lumberjack (event),” he said in sign language. Markel, a logger from Williamsport, Md., helped to found the Eastern Deaf Timberfest, a four-day event held this year at Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park in Mill Run in Fayette County. More than 1,000 deaf people were expected to participate by the end of the weekend. / Pittsburgh Tribune-Review

Lexington, NC
DEVICE OPENS DOOR TO OUTSIDE FUN FOR LOCAL TEEN
Just recently another door opened for Lauren Currier, 15, the one to a world from which she has been separated because of her hearing impairment — the world of water. A piece of cutting-edge technology known as the Neptune, manufactured by Advanced Bionics, attaches in the same manner her behind-the-earpiece adheres to the implant, via magnet. This BTH, as it's called, is waterproof and allows her to hear and take part in her favorite aquatic activities with her friends. / Lexington Dispatch

Atlanta, GA
BASKETBALL CAMP CATERS TO HEARING IMPAIRED PLAYERS
Mike Glenn spent half of his 10-year NBA career in a Hawks uniform. Since retiring, he's traveled the world as an author, motivational speaker and TV sports commentator. But for the past 33 years, he's been doing something unique and special, and the lives of a generation of children will forever be changed. The children attending the Mike Glenn Basketball Camp for the Hearing Impaired are either deaf, hard of hearing or fluent signers. / FOX 5

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

Internet
DAN FOSTER: UNTIL NEXT TIME, MY FRIEND
For a long time, I’ve been dreading writing this blog post about one of the most amazing persons I’ve ever had the privilege of knowing, Daniel Stephen Foster. For years, he had been suffering from a host of health issues and it all caught up with him early Sunday morning, June 10, 2012. To paraphrase William Shakespeare’s Hamlet: Dan had “beared the whips and scorns of time and has gone over to the undiscover’d country from whose bourn no traveller returns." / Jared Evans Global Microbrand

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

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

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

JOB OPENING

"REGIONAL OUTREACH COORDINATOR”
(IDAHO AND MONTANA)

Hamilton Relay Services is currently accepting applications for the position of “Regional Outreach Coordinator” (Idaho and Montana).

Position summary: This full-time position is responsible for coordinating and implementing outreach activities designed to promote Telecommunication Relay Services (TRS) and Captioned Telephone Relay Service (CapTel®) for the region of Idaho and Montana.

Preferred education, experience and skills:

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:

Knowledge of:
Effective communication and public outreach techniques.
Knowledge of and ability to understand various communication modes used by current and potential relay users.
Familiarity with the user communities that could benefit from relay services:
o Senior Community
o Hard of Hearing Community
o Deaf Community

Skill in:
Organizing outreach and educational campaigns.
Public speaking and confidently communicating verbally to a wide variety of audiences.

Ability to:
-- Maintain effective working relationships with Relay Administrator and non-profit and for profit partners, the public and other agencies.
-- Communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
-- Plan, schedule and organize multiple priorities and a high volume of work.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:
-- Completion of an undergraduate degree and two or more years of experience in the design and implementation of public outreach program or related marketing experience are required. Experience in the telecommunication field, Traditional Relay Service or Captioned Telephone Service is a strong plus.
-- Excellent presentation skills.
-- Experience in public relations activities.
-- Ability to travel alone.
-- Resides in Boise Area.
-- Fluency in English and American Sign Language.
-- Individuals who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing are encouraged to apply.

Apply online at: www.workforhamilton.com or contact our HR Corporate office at: (800) 821-1831 by July 11, 2012.

Hamilton Relay is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, age, national origin or disability.

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

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
PAHrtners DEAF SERVICES

614 N. Easton Road, Glenside, PA 19038
215-884-9770 TTY/V 215-884-6301 FAX

PAHrtners Deaf Services 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! E.O.E.

PAHrtners 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:

RESIDENTIAL PROGRAM DIRECTOR: (Full time position) The qualified candidate shall possess: HS Diploma and 5 years of Mental Health direct care experience, fluency in ASL, knowledge of Deaf Culture. Excellent writing and communication skills required. Responsibilities: Day to day management and supervision of residential setting for deaf adults with mental illness and behavioral health concerns. Supervision of direct care staff, development of residential programming and staff schedules, planning and leading staff meetings, coordinate staff trainings, manage petty cash and consumer funds, coordinate consumer services with internal/outside agency providers and families, conduct consumer and staff interviews, complete monthly reports, service plans and staff evaluations, follow up with physical and psychiatric medical concerns.

INTENSIVE CASE MANAGERS: (Full time position) This position provides resources and support to clients and their families who reside in the community. Duties: Responsibilities include assessing services needs of consumers, primarily children, to insure continuum of care; develop service plans; independent living skills instructions, advocate for access to public & private services and programs such as medical, vocational and other services. Qualifications: BA/BS degree in a Human Services field preferred; or High school diploma & 12 credit hours in human/social science with 2 years mental health direct care experience. Must have strong organizational skills; fluency in ASL, familiarity with other visual communication modes and language levels. Must be willing to work some evenings and weekends as needed and travel various areas in the community. Knowledge of laws governing the rights of Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals including IDEA and ADA a plus; and must have a valid driver’s license.

THERAPIST/PSYCHOSOCIAL REHABILITATION COUNSELOR: (Full time position) This position provides therapeutic and psycho-educational workshops and group sessions for consumers who are deaf. The qualified candidate shall possess: BA in psychology, counseling or any other human services field; must have 2 years’ experience with individuals with mental illness and/or mental retardation including treatment planning and progress notes; advanced fluency in ASL required; must be innovative, creative and be able to work in a team environment. Duties: Develop, coordinate and provide group/individual therapy for wellness maintenance and psycho-educational workshops.

RESIDENTIAL COUNSELORS: (various positions available) This position provides direct client services including encouraging client independence in areas such as skills in daily living and community integration. Duties: Provide supported living and training to Deaf consumers with mental illness and/or developmental disabilities living in the community; promote consumers’ independence and social relationships. Positions open for weekend and evening shifts. Qualifications: HS + 1 year related experience; valid drivers’ license; advanced fluency in ASL; demonstrated competency in independent living skills; ability to teach, advise and motivate Deaf Consumers; strong interpersonal skills.

Send your letter of intent and resumes to:

Linda Claypool, Office Manager/HR
PAHrtners Deaf Services, 614 N. Easton Road, Glenside, PA 19038
Email: lclaypool@salisb.com Fax: 215-884-6301 Updated 5-23-12

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

Mental Health Clinician - Deaf & Hard of Hearing Services
St. Cloud, Minnesota
$22.18 to $32.69 per hour ($46,312 to $68,257 per year)

We are seeking a mental health clinician to provide culturally affirmative mental health services to deaf, deafblind, and hard of hearing consumers living in St. Cloud, MN and Central Minnesota. The ideal candidate will have a Master’s Degree in a behavioral health field such as counseling, psychology, or social work; be licensed or licensed-eligible as a mental health professional (LPC, LPCC, LP, LICSW or LMFT) in State of Minnesota; be fluent in ASL; and have extensive experience in mental health counseling including knowledge of clinical/crisis interventions and psychiatric medications. Minnesota is a great place to live and work offering the best of both large metropolitan areas as well as small town charm. In addition to a rewarding career we offer an excellent benefit and compensation package. To learn more about how you can make a difference, please send your resume to Dr. John Gournaris at john.gournaris@state.mn.us.

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

Posting Details

Position Number: 02039327
Official Title: ASSOC/NO PREFIX/SR STUDENT SERVICES CORD
Working Title: Interim Deaf/Hard of Hearing and Physical Disabilities Advisor
Position Type: Non-Teaching Academic Staff
Department: B056035 SAC-Deaf & Hard of Hearing Program

Description of School/College/Dept/Program:

The University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (UWM) invites nominations and applications for a fixed term academic staff position of Advisor (working title, Interim Deaf/Hard of Hearing and Physical Disabilities Advisor(DHH-PD Advisor). UWM, a Doctoral/Research Extensive university, is Wisconsin’s premier public urban university offering a comprehensive liberal arts and professional education to its 30,000 students. The Student Accessibility Center (SAC) is located in the Division of Academic Affairs and the DHH-PD Advisor reports to the Assistant Director of SAC. SAC provides academic support services to approximately 720 students with disabilities. The DHH-PD Advisor will be responsible for maintaining a caseload of about 65-70 students.

Job Summary/Basic Function:

The primary purpose of the DHH-PD Advisor is to assess and provide reasonable and appropriate academic support services and accommodations to students and prospective students who are deaf or hard of hearing and those who have physical disabilities. The DHH-PD Advisor serves as a disability specialist, interprets disability documentation to determine eligibility and appropriate academic accommodations for students, manages student caseload, provide advocacy, and provides academic study-skills assistance to SAC students. The secondary purpose is providing consultation, education and training to the campus community about accommodating students with disabilities and ensuring compliance with the ADA, serving as a resource to the campus and community, and representing UWM, SAC and the DHH Program in outreach activities. The Advisor will also assist with the D/HH Program’s outreach and other program projects as assigned. This position is a twelve-month 100% academic staff.

Minimum Qualifications:

-- Fluency in American Sign Language and ability to communicate using multiple sign language modes.
-- Bachelor’s degree in rehabilitation, special education or related field required.
-- Working knowledge of the Americans with Disabilities Act and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act.
-- For consideration of Associate prefix title, 0-2 years of experience working with the Deaf and Hard of Hearing population.
-- For consideration No prefix title, 2-4 years of experience working with the Deaf and Hard of Hearing population.
-- For consideration of Senior prefix title, 4 or more years of experience working with the Deaf and Hard of Hearing population.

Preferred Qualifications:

-- Master’s degree in rehabilitation, special education or related field.
-- Experience in the higher education environment.
-- Working knowledge of Deaf culture and issues relating to hearing loss.
-- Working knowledge of accommodation services for Deaf and Hard of Hearing students.
-- Working knowledge of Physical and Mobility disabilities.
-- Excellent English communication skills; both oral and written.

Special Instructions to Applicants:

Complete application materials must include a letter of application addressing educational and professional level work experience as it relates to all required and preferred qualifications, a professional resume, and the names and contact information of three professional references. All finalists for this position will be required to participate in a criminal records review consistent with the Wisconsin Fair Employment Act and will be required to submit an official copy of their college transcript.

If continuous, indicate initial application review date.

Posted until Date: 07/24/2012
Open Until Filled: No
Position Contact Name: Shannon Aylesworth
Contact Person Phone Number: 414-229-3340
Contact Person Email: aylessr@uwm.edu

EEO Statement:

UWM is an AA/EEO Employer

ADA Policy

For this position, applicants are required to apply online. UWM will not consider paper, emailed or faxed applications. Additionally, applicants must complete all required fields and attach any required documents. The process is complete when the message “Your application has been submitted” is displayed and you receive a confirmation number. It is the policy of UWM to provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities who are applicants for employment. If you need assistance, or accommodation in applying because of a disability, please contact uwm-jobs@uwm.edu or 414-229-4463. Employment opportunities will not be denied because of the need to make reasonable accommodations for a qualified individual’s disability.

Supplemental Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).

* How did you hear about this employment opportunity?
__ No Response
__ Public Job Posting
__ Internal Job Posting
__ Agency Referral
__ Advertisement/Publication
__ Personal Referral
__ Web site
__ UWM Employment Site
__ Other

* Please indicate the specific source:
(Open Ended Question)

Required Documents

Cover Letter
References
Resume

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

Click here to subscribe or here to advertise.