Deafweekly August 10, 2011

deafweekly

August 10, 2011
Vol. 7, No. 40

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 2011 and any unauthorized use is prohibited. Please support our advertisers; they make it possible for you to receive Deafweekly.

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Last issue's most-read story: INSIDE THE MISS DEAF INTERNATIONAL STORY / myVRS Relay Central LLC Blog
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EDITOR'S NOTES:

** I decided to change the publication schedule. It was 50 weeks a year, all except the last weeks of August and December. Now it's biweekly in August, and the last two weeks off in December, 47-48 weeks a year. We'll be back Aug 24 and then resume weekly publication on Sept. 7.

** Just three weeks before it was to begin, the Deaf Seniors of America 2011 conference in Chicago was cancelled due to insufficient registration. This bothers me because they never sent me any news or placed any ads in Deafweekly, ignoring a valuable resource. I'm sure many of our subscribers would have been interested if they had known. If you're planning a big event, you need to get the word out and sometimes it costs money to do that. Deafweekly's policy is to run one news item about an event free and after that it's advertising. Remember, it's the ads that make this publication possible.

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NATIONAL
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Honolulu, HI
SEXUAL ABUSE INVESTIGATION WIDENS AT DEAF AND BLIND SCHOOL
Attorney Michael Green said Friday more families have come forward claiming sexual abuse of students at the Hawaii School for the Deaf and Blind. The Honolulu Police Department and the Department of Education have both acknowledged investigations are ongoing and arrests have been made. The Honolulu Police Department said several boys have been arrested in an investigation into multiple sexual assault cases at the Hawaii School for the Deaf and Blind. / KITV

See Also ARRESTS MADE IN ALLEGED SEX ASSAULTS / KHON2

Merced, CA
WOMAN ACCUSED OF HUSBAND'S STABBING DEATH AT MERCED HOTEL ARRAIGNED ON CHARGES
The woman accused of stabbing her husband to death at the Tioga Hotel pleaded not guilty last Friday to charges of second-degree murder with an enhancement for use of a deadly weapon. Courtney Ross, 32, made her first in-person appearance at the Merced County Superior Court wearing a yellow jailhouse jumpsuit and a bandage on her right hand. She had briefly appeared in court Wednesday via a live video feed at the Merced County Jail, where she's being held without bail. The hearing-impaired defendant communicated through a sign language interpreter. / Merced Sun-Star

Chicago, IL
DEAF SENIORS OF AMERICA 2011 CONFERENCE CANCELLED
Due to the following circumstances below, the DSA 2011 Chicago Committee has reached an unprecedented decision and notified the DSA Board of its decision: Excessive large number of withdrawals (currently the registration count is 1,157); Declination from the hotel to negotiate for reduction in costs; Lack of interest from Chicago people; Negative media; Lack of sponsors. In view of these above factors, the DSA Board has conceded to the Committee’s decision, which is that the DSA 2011 conference be cancelled. [It was set for Aug. 31 to Sept. 6.] / DSA

Ogden, UT
STATE TO RELOCATE SCHOOLS FOR THE DEAF AND BLIND SUPERINTENDENT
A state task force set up to investigate the effectiveness of the Ogden-based Utah Schools for the Deaf and the Blind has recommended the USDB superintendent be relocated from his Weber County office to the Salt Lake City offices of the Utah State Board of Education, where state officials can keep a closer eye on USDB decisions and how funds are spent. USDB Superintendent Steve Noyce said he is happy with the recommendations and the state board's immediate vote to move him, as it would give him greater access to the people in a position to help the USDB. / Standard-Examiner

Danville, KY
KENTUCKY SCHOOL FOR THE DEAF HONORS BLACK STUDENTS ONCE DENIED DIPLOMAS
It was, as the chairman of the state board of education called it, "a small opportunity to correct a large wrong." During a ceremony last Wednesday, the Kentucky School for the Deaf presented diplomas to a handful of blacks who had left the institution decades ago without receiving the official recognition of their completion of courses. If there was bitterness, it was not expressed. / Lexington Herald-Leader

Talladega, AL
ALABAMA POWER GIVES AIDB $500,000 GRANT FOR HEALTH CENTER
“Dream Weaver” was the theme for the Alabama Institute for Deaf and Blind convocation last Monday, and included an array of special guests and a big announcement. AIDB President Terry Graham welcomed Julia Segars, vice president of Alabama Power’s eastern division, to the stage where she announced that AIDB will receive a $500,000 grant from Alabama Power for a new health center at Alabama School for the Deaf. / The Daily Home

Tampa, FL
MAN SUES POLICE, SAYS EXCESSIVE FORCE USED
A deaf man filed a federal civil rights lawsuit last week against four Tampa police officers, saying they used excessive force when they dragged him outside an Ybor City nightclub last year, threw him into a bench and repeatedly punched and kicked him. His client, Jacob P. Cowie, is deaf and couldn't hear the officers identify themselves, if they did, attorney Michael Maddux said. / The Tampa Tribune

Lee County, FL
DEAF FLORIDA MAN HAS BIKE STOLEN FROM UNDER HIM
A deaf Lee County man says he's outraged after someone stole his bicycle right from underneath him! He's just one of many victims to what deputies say is becoming a popular crime. Devon Myers says his focus was on dodging traffic when he rode his roomates bike to the Circle K on North Tamiami Trail last Monday afternoon. He says when arrived he felt a shove. "Some dude just pushed me off the bike," Myers said. / WINK News

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INTERNATIONAL
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Colombo, Sri Lanka
SRI LANKA'S DEAF MARCH FOR EQUAL RIGHTS, JOBS
About 1,000 deaf Sri Lankans took to the streets of capital Colombo on July 29 to demand equal rights, social recognition and more sign language translators, with an official saying only about four are currently qualified. The protesters from the Sri Lanka Central Federation of the Deaf held a rally opposite Colombo's main railroad station to highlight their plight in a country still struggling to return to normalcy after a 25-year brutal civil war that ended in 2009. / CBS News

Tokyo, Japan
DEAF COMPOSER PENS HIROSHIMA OPUS
Composer Mamoru Samuragoch, whose parents are both hibakusha [survivors of WWII atomic bombings) and who is completely deaf, last month released a CD of his Symphony No. 1 "Hiroshima," which he composed to express his hope for a world free of nuclear weapons. The symphony, played by the Tokyo Symphony Orchestra and conducted by Naoto Otomo, comprises three movements and lasts roughly 80 minutes. "I hope listeners will feel the darkness of hopelessness and the gentle light hope that follows," the 47-year-old Samuragoch said. / The Japan Times

Gluboky, Russia
RUSSIAN MAN KEPT CHAINED UP LIKE A DOG BY COUPLE
A married Russian couple faces charges after investigators say they found the woman's 70-year-old deaf and blind father chained up in the yard like a dog. The AFP quotes the Investigative Committee as saying the elderly man, identified in various reports only as Mikhail B., had been tied "to a tree with a metal chain in their yard and kept him there from July 28 to August 1." Authorities went on to note, "Neighbors heard his cries for help and called law enforcers." / Huffington Post

Belfast, Northern Ireland
£250,000 BILL TO SEND SEVEN GIFTED DEAF PUPILS TO SCHOOL IN ENGLAND
The Department of Education is spending almost £250,000 ($408,000 US) a year sending seven academically gifted deaf pupils to a boarding school in England because there is not one grammar school in Northern Ireland with a hearing unit. It means that any parent who wants a grammar school education for their hearing-impaired child is having to make the heart-wrenching decision to enrol their 11-year-old son or daughter at the Mary Hare School for the Deaf in Newbury, Berkshire, if they pass the entrance exam. / Belfast Telegraph

Lochaber, Scotland
DEAF-BLIND GRANDFATHER SCALES HIGHEST MOUNTAIN IN THE UK
An intrepid grandfather has become the first deaf and blind man to scale the UK's highest mountain. Brave Michael Anderson, 70, cannot venture to the supermarket alone, but the pioneering pensioner managed to "feel" his way to the top of Ben Nevis. Mr Anderson completed his epic 4,400ft climb in 17 hours and 37 minutes and relaxed at the summit as his helpers described the scenery to him. / Scotsman

London, England
NOT ALL DEAF PEOPLE WANT TO BE 'FIXED'
As a deaf person, there are a few standard things you expect to happen during an audiology appointment. These include: having your hearing checked and your ears piped with warm plasticine to make new ear moulds for your hearing aids (I've always secretly loved this bit), and being gently chided for not cleaning your ear moulds more regularly (I'm a lifetime offender). Yet you may also come into contact with people who despite their job - treating deaf people - are not incredibly deaf aware. / Guardian

Kendal, Cumbria, England
DEAF GIRL FACES 180-MILE ROUND TRIP TO GO TO SCHOOL
Dejected Michaela Mowat is having to leave her family to go to a school two-and-a-half hours from home - just because she is partially deaf. There are no secondary schools near Michaela, 11, with the correct acoustics to enable her to hear the teachers. So her distraught parents have decided to send her to a boarding school for deaf children which will involve a round trip of 180 miles. / Mirror

London, England
UNION SAYS HOUSING STAFF DISCRIMINATED BY COUNCIL
A council has been accused of discriminating against deaf members of staff during a shake-up to its housing department. Trade union members allege that the selection procedure undertaken by Lambeth Council to decide which staff would stay on when the number of business support workers is reduced from 11 to eight, discriminated against two deaf staff members. The union said the workers were asked about parts of the job they do not do -- such as working on reception and writing letters -- which put them at a disadvantage when competing with their colleagues for the jobs. / Inside Housing

Montreal, QC, Canada
SHAPING UP: NEARLY 94 AND STILL GOING STRONG
Sol Levine is a true role model and inspiration. First, there’s marriage and family: This October will mark his 70th wedding anniversary to Leiba, “the love of his life.” Second, in perseverance: Levine, who has been deaf since the age of 14, has succeeded in all areas of his life, both personal and professional. And third, and most impressive, there’s exercise. Levine, on the verge of turning 94, works out faithfully six days a week at the YM-YWHA, where he has been a member for more than 60 years. / Montreal Gazette

Halifax, NS, Canada
DEAF PROFESSOR PROVES SKEPTICS WRONG
A teacher told Linda Campbell she’d never go to university. The Halifax resident is now a university professor. And she doesn’t have to tell her students what they can or can’t accomplish. "They see it" every time she steps to the head of the class. "That was a really powerful assumption to make for kids," the scientist recalls through an interpreter, her fingers signing rapidly with the recollection. / The Chronicle Herald

Melbourne, Australia
AUSTRALIAN TEEN IN RESCUE DRAMA AFTER GETTING LOST ON NEW ZEALAND MOUNTAIN
A hearing-impaired Sydney teenager's holiday in New Zealand turned into a rescue drama after he got lost on a walk up a South Island mountain. Visiting Wanaka for a family wedding, Cuoran O'Flynn, 18, set off on a scenic hike up 5177-foot Roys Peak on Sunday morning (July 31) but, partly due to snow and a steep slope, he got into difficulties -- and once darkness fell he decided to alert the emergency services. "I could see the lights of Wanaka and I could see the lake and I was so close, but I was so far as well. I just felt really foolish having to call," he said. / news.com.au

Warwick, Australia
DISCO BULLIES ATTACK DEAF GIRL
The parents of a profoundly deaf girl who sustained substantial injuries after being bashed at a Blue Light Disco fear the bullies behind the attack won’t stop until their daughter is “in a body bag." The couple say their 16-year-old daughter was knocked out on Friday night after being surrounded by the group of about seven teenagers on the dance floor at Slade Hall and punched in the head. “My daughter had a big, black eye, swollen face, teeth pushed back in her mouth, bloody nose and she has a headache that won’t go away," said her mother. / Warwick Daily News

Nagpur, India
DEAF AND MUTE COUPLE MADE FOR EACH OTHER
There is eloquence in the silence that surrounds Rini Roy Chaudhary. The bride to be spreads her hand out to get the mehndi applied, but is unaware of the chatter and laughter that fills a home all set to celebrate a wedding. Rini is hearing-impaired. She will be marrying 25-year-old K Ravi Babu from Hyderabad who, incidentally, too is deaf and mute. / Times of India

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LIFE & LEISURE
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Mount Helix, CA
CROWNING ACHIEVEMENT: MISS DEAF UNITED STATES
Kayla LaBruno graduated from Helix Charter High School in 2010, but the crowning moment of her young life may have come June 5 -- when she was named Miss Deaf United States 2011, a title she is simply thrilled to have. “One word about my experience was exhilarating,” LaBruno said last week. She also took part in this year’s Miss Deaf International event -- and ranked in the top 10. / Patch.com

Toledo, OH
TOLEDO DEAF CLUB CONSIDERS CLOSING
After 75 years of service to the deaf community, the Toledo Deaf Club might be forced to close its Adams Street doors. The recent loss of its six-year tenant, Whole Self Massage Therapy, and the rent money the business provided leaves the Deaf Club struggling financially. Club President Terry Struve and Secretary Shannon Odneal said the club might have to sell its property in a few months to remain afloat if it fails to find a new tenant and increase membership. / Toledo Blade

New York, NY
NEW RESEARCH ON DEAF LIFE DURING THE HOLOCAUST
On July 26, Mark Zaurov, a deaf Ph.D. candidate at the University of Hamburg, Germany who had recently completed a four-month fellowship at the US Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington, presented "Deaf Holocaust." His research includes interviews with Deaf Holocaust survivors and Deaf German perpetrators. / PRNewswire

Loretto, PA
SAINT FRANCIS UNIVERSITY STUDENTS EXPLORE FIRST ASL IMMERSION EXPERIENCE
College students routinely travel to exotic destinations around the world to refine their skills in foreign languages. One language and culture that until now university students have not had the opportunity to be fully immersed in is American Sign Language. That changed recently for a lucky group of Saint Francis University students, who signed up for a special ASL course in May and found a place on an eight day/ seven night cruise to the Bahamas coordinated by Passages Deaf Travel. / SFU Marketing

Internet
DEAF CHILD AREA SIGNS
Have you seen a street sign like this where you live? There are several in my town. I've taken photographs of the ones I see regularly. They've raised questions in my mind I wanted to share with you. I'm curious to know more about them, but I don't know who to ask. / Speak Up Librarian

Syracuse, NY
DEAF MAN: THE NUDISTS DISSED ME
A deaf man has filed a complaint alleging a nudist organization in upstate New York violated federal law by refusing to provide him with a sign-language interpreter at an annual festival. Tom Willard, 53, of Rochester, said in a complaint filed with the U.S. Justice Department that Empire Haven Nudist Park violated the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) by repeatedly refusing his requests for an interpreter so he could attend workshops during the week-long festival. / Reuters

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WORKING WORLD
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Philadelphia, PA
TWO DEAF INTERNS AT DOW OFFERING NEW PERSPECTIVE
When Melody Frink was a child, she thought the whole world was deaf and everybody knew sign language. One of 11 children in an all-deaf family, she signed to people in stores, on the streets, everywhere, until she learned that she actually lived in a hearing world. Now a college student, she is interning at Dow Chemical Co., in Spring House, working alongside hearing people. Yet, bridging the hearing and deaf worlds has not been a problem this summer. / The Inquirer

Boston, MA
HARLAN LANE: KEEPING ASL AT CENTER OF DEAF CULTURE
Recent budget cuts have threatened the future of state schools for the deaf, creating worry among deaf and hard-of-hearing families that their children will be pushed into mainstream schools where American Sign Language takes a back seat to new “speaking and listening” technologies. Distinguished Professor of Psychology Harlan Lane, who founded the ASL program at Northeastern and recently wrote a book about deaf culture and deaf ethnicity in the U.S., addresses the debate and explains how sign language trumps technology. / Northeastern University News

Selah, WA
LIFEGUARD DOESN'T NEED HEARING TO SAVE LIVES
When Ashleigh Rice sits down to work, hundreds of people are under her watch. Her objective is to maintain a safe environment for swimmers and she watches the pool like a hawk. Each day at the pool, she sees potential danger unfold. In the moment she's needed most, Rice doesn't need to hear. She has been deaf since age 2 and can only say a few words. / Yakima Herald-Republic

New York, NY
DEAF EMPLOYEE HONORED AT LITTLE NECK PANERA
The Panera Bread restaurant of Little Neck is honoring deaf employee Darryl Jennings as associate of the month, in recognition of his superior job performance. The honor comes on the one-year anniversary of his employment with Panera. / Queens Gazette

Portland, ME
PORTLAND WOMAN DETERMINED TO FIND JOB DESPITE DISABILITY
Finding a job in today's depressed economy is a challenge in of itself. But imagine having a disability and trying to sell yourself to a potential employer? A Portland woman who was born deaf says the hurdles to employment are her motivation. Deb Ellis has worked as a book keep and a tutor. She is going to school for an accounting degree and needs a part time job. Ellis says being deaf isn't the obstacle to finding a job. it is finding an employer willing to give her a chance. / WLBZ2.com

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Abused in Wisconsin? If you, or someone you know, were sexually abused as a child at St. John’s School for the Deaf in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, we have an important message for you: Because the Archdiocese of Milwaukee has declared bankruptcy, you may now be able to bring a claim — even if previously you were told you could not. However, because there will be a limited amount of time the courts will allow for you to bring a claim, you must act now or you may be forever prohibited from doing so. Go to www.AbusedinWisconsin.com Today! Jeff Anderson & Associates

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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
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Los Angeles, CA
WHOOPI GOLDBERG SUFFERING FROM 'HEARING LOSS'
Whoopi Goldberg has warned music fans to be responsible listeners after learning she is losing her hearing. The Oscar winner attended the Starkey Hearing Foundation's So the World May Hear Awards Gala in support of her deaf pal Marlee Matlin in July (11), and now Goldberg confesses her presence at the party had an even more personal meaning -- she is also hard of hearing. / Contactmusic

St. Paul, MN
MILEY CYRUS AND STARKEY HEARING FOUNDATION TO BRING HELP TO HAITI ... AGAIN
Miley Cyrus is continuing her crusade for the deaf. The teen queen is once again partnering with the Starkey Hearing Foundation, which provides hearing supplies to deaf children on the global scale, in addition to educating people about the deaf. Earlier this year, Cyrus even traveled to Haiti to help the SHF with their noble mission. She loved being a part of their initiative so much that she is making an encore appearance in Haiti. / PopCrush

Los Angeles, CA
MARCHING TOWARD STARDOM
Switched at Birth is the summer’s breakout hit. The ABC Family drama set network records when it debuted in June, and its ratings have remained strong ever since. In the process the show has become a breakthrough for Katie Leclerc, its effervescent co-leading lady, who is suddenly everywhere and fast emerging as a voice for the hearing impaired. “We are all jumping up and down,” Leclerc says. “We can’t even believe it. I knew that we had something special from the first time I read the script." / Oman Tribune

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SPORTS
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Internet
MATT HAMILL ANNOUNCES RETIREMENT AFTER UFC 133 LOSS
UFC light heavyweight Matt Hamill has retired from MMA competition at the age of 34. "Today is a sad day for me," Hamill announced Monday on his official website. "After six years and 13 fights in the UFC, I'm ready to hang up my gloves and retire from this amazing sport." Hamill is coming off a loss this past Saturday at UFC 133 against Alexander Gustafsson, a fight, Hamill revealed in his statement, that he had to be talked into. / MMA Fighting

Washington, DC
MADISON NITTA HELPS USA DEAF VOLLEYBALL TEAM WIN 2011 FRIENDSHIP GAMES
Bowling Green State University senior volleyball player Madison Nitta was a member of the USA Deaf Volleyball team that won the 2011 Friendship Games at Gallaudet University Saturday. The USA, coached by Lynn Ray Boren, went 5-0 during the week-long tournament, defeating Canada, Japan, and international power Ukraine. In fact, the Ukraine had not lost in international competition in six years, but Nitta’s USA team swept the team 25-13, 25-22, 25-12 in the championship match Sunday. / Boxscore

Coimbra, Portugal
WORLD DEAF SWIMMING CHAMPIONSHIPS: TRIO OF WORLD DEAF RECORDS FALL
A day after a pair of world deaf records fell at the World Deaf Swimming Championships in Portugal, the swimmers upped the ante with four more world record performances within three different events. / Swimming World

Santa Cruz, CA
DEAF DISC GOLFER BOYES WILL REPRESENT AT THE WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS
Disc golfer Nathan Boyes celebrates a good throw with a simple gesture. The other deaf players in his group know what it means -- Boyes has just made birdie. Boyes, who was identified as deaf at the age of 2, is the president of the Deaf Disc Golf Association and one of three deaf players set to compete in the Professional Disc Golf Association World Championships. / Santa Cruz Sentinel

Los Lunas, NM
FAIR BALL
There were some close calls in last month's Los Lunas Men's Softball League's all-star game. John Markowski, who is deaf, was one of the umpires for the game. While he doesn't use his voice in exactly the same way as the hearing umpires, his emphatic and rapid delivery of calls matched the rest of his crew. "My biggest challenge in umpiring is to keep my eyes constantly with games and players," said Markowski, an Albuquerque resident. / Valencia County News Bulletin

Medford, OR
'AMAZING AND HORRIBLE' -- MEDFORD MAN IS TACKLING THE PACIFIC CREST TRAIL IN SILENCE
Guthrie Nutter's legs, honed from years of walking New York City streets, are powering him through some of nature's greatest spectacles. Nutter, a 33-year-old Rogue Valley native, is walking the crest of the West from Mexico to Canada. Nutter is legally deaf, relying on a mix of sign language, lip reading and some sounds from a new hearing aid to communicate in his regular world -- and now on one of the natural world's greatest stages. / Mail Tribune

Buffalo, NY
WRESTLING WITHOUT SOUND
Professional wrestling has always been more spectacle than sport; a flash bang of colors, characters and cheddar cheesy theme music that turns men into marvels. Now cut the sound. For Louis Long, it’s always been that way. Born deaf, what he saw was competition, larger than life prizefighters all chasing gold. Pro wrestling told a bright and captivating story without words. A wrestler’s aura and actions spoke volumes and like that, Louis found his voice. / Huge Sportz

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MILESTONES
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Santa Rosa, CA
FILMMAKER AND FORMER SANTA ROSA HIGH SCHOOL CLASS PRESIDENT, JEFFREY E. YOUNG, DIES AT 29
Jeffrey E. Young, a filmmaker, aspiring actor and president of the Santa Rosa High School Class of 2000, died July 20. Young, 29, struggled with depression and anxiety and suffered complications after a self-inflicted knife wound the previous month. “He succumbed to the illness that overtook his life,” said his mother Cindy Young of Santa Rosa. Young was born deaf, but had many accomplishments at a an early age. / The Press Democrat

Sebring, OH
CHARLES G. RAWLINGS, 101, EDUCATOR TO THE DEAF
Charles G. Rawlings, age 101, passed away Saturday, August 6, 2011, at the Copeland Oaks Retirement Community in Sebring, Ohio. He was born November 30, 1909, in Jacksonville, Ill. Charles was an educator to the deaf, serving in many capacities throughout his career. Mr. Rawlings taught in many states, including: New Jersey, Indiana, New York, and Pennsylvania. / Cleveland Plain Dealer

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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). To place your ad, send the announcement to mail@deafweekly.com.

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ADVOCATES INC.

www.advocatesinc.org

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Advocates has a few full-time 40 hr Direct Care Counselor and Awake Overnight positions opened in some of our Deaf programs. 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. We are looking for people that have great interpersonal skills, are good with people and have experience working and communicating with people with disabilities. Qualities we look at include being helpful, energetic and willingness to work weekends.

Please send your resumes to: snathan@advocatesinc.org and for more information go to www.advocatesinc.org to visit our website.

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Job Advertisement
Posting Date: Sunday, July 31st, 2011 - Wednesday, August 31st, 2011

Opening Date: Monday, August 1st, 2011
Closing Date: Wednesday, August 31st, 2011

Executive Director
The Commission for Deaf and Hard of Hearing is seeking an Executive Director (ED). The ED will be responsible for managing department directors and other agency staff; plan and direct new and current programs or services; oversight of the development of the Agency’s program budget projection; develop program goals and objectives; develop
Request for Proposals; management and oversight of various Agency contracts; work and interact with the other State Government agencies; review proposed regulations; respond to multiple inquiries from legislators, other agencies and many interested parties; represent the Agency at meetings and public functions; participate in legislative activities that include presenting program and policy analysis; represent the Agency during legislative sessions.

Qualifications for the position: A Master’s Degree in Business, Public Administration, Social Services or a related field is required for this position. Eight (8) years managing programs or projects that include strategic planning, and/or developing and implementing programs or services that require interaction with other agencies and/or with multiple parties to include five (5) years experience in direct staff management. Substantial experience with managing complex programs and budgets, significant experience in the administration of programs and services for the Deaf, Hard of Hearing and Deaf-Blind communities required. Ability to communicate fluently in American Sign Language required. Individuals with disabilities encouraged to apply.

To apply, please submit your resume to Shannon Smith, Director of Human Resources via email at ShannonS.Peinado@state.nm.us. Phone calls will not be accepted.

The State of New Mexico Commission for Deaf & Hard of Hearing is an Equal Opportunity Employer. For more information on the Commission for Deaf & Hard of Hearing, please visit www.cdhh.state.nm.us.

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Position Announcement

Information Office Supervisor
Kentucky Commission on the Deaf and Hard of Hearing

The Kentucky Commission on the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (KCDHH) seeks an experienced, creative individual to fill the position of Information Office Supervisor. KCDHH, a state agency within the Education and Workforce Development Cabinet, is charged to advise the Governor and General Assembly concerning policy and programs needed to enhance the quality and coordination of services for deaf and hard of hearing persons. The agency also assists local, state and federal governments, and public and private agencies in the development of programs for deaf and hard of hearing persons, oversees the provision of interpreter services for state agencies and operates the telecommunications access program to ensure equal access to telecommunications services. The position is located in Frankfort, Kentucky.

Minimum Qualifications:
• Graduate of a college or university with a bachelor’s degree.
• Four years of experience in journalism, public relations or experience related to the duties and responsibilities in this class.

Duties include, but not limited to:
• Supervising professional and clerical employees involved in assembling, writing, editing and distribution of printed information.
• Advises the administrators on the public relations programs of the agency.
• Creates, designs, layout and writes promotional materials of various types of brochures, pamphlets, booklets, etc.
• Tracks publications through the printing process.
• Coordinates the dissemination of written releases, radio releases and television videotape.
• Coordinates and/or appears on radio and television programs concerning the department’s activities.
• Performs journalistic research, editing, and revising of materials for publications.
• Plans, develops, implements and evaluates public relations programs throughout state government.
• Provides photographic services for the department.

Please direct any questions to Katie Huber at 632 Versailles Road, Frankfort, KY 40601, 502-573-2604 V/T, 502-416-0607 VP, Katie.Huber@ky.gov.

To apply for this position, please complete an online application at the Kentucky Personnel Cabinet.

The Kentucky Commission on the Deaf and Hard of Hearing does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, or disability in employment.

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Due to an expanding program we are looking for dedicated professionals to provide support and services to Deaf & Hard of Hearing students. We are now interviewing all qualified applicants for the following positions.

Deaf Vermonters Advocacy Services
Victim Advocate/community educator
Location: statewide Vermont
Time Base: 2 part-time positions
Qualifications:
BA degree or equivalent experience
Fluency in American Sign Language
Advocacy experience
Work from a philosophy or empowerment
Ability to work with a diverse population
Exceptional listening skills, ability to empathize
Knowledge of domestic and sexual violence
Send resume and cover letter to Keri Darling
kdarling@dvas.org

Client Support specialist for ACCESS for Deaf Vermonters
Location: Brattleboro, VT
Time Base: Part time
Qualifications:
BA Degree preferred or High School diploma with minimum 2years experiences in
Human Services.
Experience with deafness and deaf culture preferred
Fluency in American Sign Language or willingness to learn
Driver’s license and personal car required
Responsibilities:
Teaching clients independent living skills (home management) accessing of community Resources.
Transitioning skills, employment community networking, on the job coaching
Communicating/meeting with home care provider, case manager and referral agency as needed.
Providing crisis intervention as needed.

Lead Weekend Overnight Residential Advisor
Location: Brattleboro, VT
Time Base: Full -time
Qualifications:
21 years of age and High School diploma required
Residential program experience, preferred
Effective Communication skills to include American Sign Language
Willingness to receive CPR, First Aid & Restraint Training
Understands the uniqueness & development of Deaf & Hard of Hearing Students
Responsibilities:
Enforce student guidelines and regulations as established by school and the residential Program.
Be able to respond to student related emergencies.
Prepare daily report for Coordinator of Student Life.
Obtain and maintain CPI, First Aid, CPR certification and other related trainings

Residential Advisors:
Location: Brattleboro, VT
Time base: All shifts; including Overnight shifts & weekends
Qualifications: Bachelors Degree or High School Graduate & 21 years of age
Effective communication skills to include ASL.
Willingness to receive CPR, First Aid and Restraint Training.
Willingness to learn behavior management techniques
Understands the uniqueness and development of Deaf & Hard of Hearing students.
Responsibilities: Enhance social and interpersonal relationships among the student
Assist in the development and implementation of proactive, preventative residential
Programs which help students develop into healthy well- rounded individuals.

Speech - Language Pathologist
Location: Brattleboro, VT
Time Base: part time

Health Service Assistant
Location: Brattleboro, VT
Time Base: full time or part-time
Qualifications:
College education required, minimum 2yrs.
Computer skills, including Microsoft Office
Excellent interpersonal skills and positive attitude
American Sign Language acknowledge
Ability to plan, organize, implement and explain the program, goals, procedures that are necessary for providing proper administrative procedures.
Responsibilities:
Obtain certification in First Aid, CPR, and CPI
Obtain/maintain medication certification
Coordinate medication documentation
Schedule medical appointments for students and appointment with students
Promote the social, emotional and physical growth in children.

Paraprofessionals|
Location: Brattleboro, VT
Time Base: Full-time
Qualifications:
Bachelors Degree or High School Diploma and 21 years old and related experience.
Understands the uniqueness and development of Deaf and Hard of Hearing students.
Proficiency in ASL
Valid driver’s license
Willingness to obtain a VT bus license
Responsibilities:
Assist teachers with tutoring, instruction, classroom management and clerical tasks.
Assist with morning residential program
Must be able to assist student with physical motor needs to include lifting guiding.

2nd Shift Team Leader for Residential Program for Deaf Students on the Autism spectrum
Location: Brattleboro, VT
Time Base: Full time
Qualifications:
21 years of age and related residential experience
Understands the uniqueness and development of Deaf and Hard of Hearing students
Proficiency in American Sign Language
Experience in behavior management techniques
Responsibilities:
Promote the social, emotional and physical growth of the children.
Coordinate after school activities
Enforce student guidelines and regulations as established by school and the residential program
Respond to student emergences

Educational Interpreters
Location: Brattleboro, VT
Time Base: Full-time & part-time.

Director of Little Arrows Early Education Center
Location: Brattleboro, VT
Time Base: Full time
Qualifications:
BA in Early Childhood Education, MA preferred
Eligible for appropriate licensure
3 years teaching experience, 2 years administrative experience preferred
Fluency in ASL
Demonstrated planning and organizational skills
Responsibilities:
Program development to include:
Maintain centers license
Hiring and developing staff
Curriculum development
Ongoing direction of all program operations
Direct teaching duties.

Please send letter of interest & resume to:
Kelly Therieau
ktherieau@vcdhh.org
209 Austine Dr
Brattleboro, VT 05301
802-258-9510
Fax# 802-258-9574

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Company: The Z® / CSDVRS

Job Title: Business Account Executive
Department: Video Communication Solutions
Reports To: Senior Director of Sales
FLSA Status: Exempt
Location: TBD

Summary: The Business Account Executive will be responsible for introducing ZVRS to new business customers and residential customers. Also responsible for sharing new exciting products and features with customers who desire to use video relay service in their place of employment by performing the following duties personally or through subordinate supervisors.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following:
-- Planning and directing sales and service programs to promote new markets, improve competitive position in area, and provide fast and efficient customer service.
-- Prospecting assigned region for new customers.
-- Suggesting and implementing creative and practical methods for selling ZVRS, strengthening client relationships, and increasing visibility.
-- Coordinating aspects of ZVRS marketing efforts.
-- Working with other Business Account Executives to plan and implement state and region-wide events and promotions.
-- Overseeing a group of Z sales specialists within the region
-- Coordinating installations of ZVRS equipment in homes, agencies, and/or businesses through our National Sales Engineers and installation program;
-- Conferring with potential customer to ascertain equipment, supplies, and service needs.
-- Communicating with and submitting regular activity reports to the Senior Sales Director.
-- Performing additional sales related responsibilities and other duties as assigned.

Education and/or Experience:
-- 1 -2 years of sales experience preferred.
-- Bachelor's Degree in related field strongly preferred.
-- Computer knowledge and Microsoft office

Qualifications:
-- Must have strong knowledge of Telecommunications Relay Service Industry.
-- Must have excellent interpersonal skills and ability to work successfully with a variety of people.
-- Must have the ability to communicate fluently in American Sign Language
-- Must have a good understanding of Deaf Culture.
-- Must have strong written and verbal communication skills.
-- Must have extensive customer service experience.
-- Must be willing to work a variety of hours and to travel frequently.
-- Must have knowledge of Video applications.

Salary: Commensurate with experience and qualifications. Please send salary requirements to be considered.

Benefits: Group Health Insurance, Life Insurance, Dental Plan, Vision Plan, Paid Time Off, Short/Long Term Disability, 401K and matching, Paid Holidays and Employee Assistance Program

Application Deadline: Open Until Filled

Send Resume and Cover Letter to: jobs@zvrs.com

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Company: The Z® / CSDVRS

Location hiring: Clearwater, Florida
Job Title: Telesales Specialist
Department: Telesales
Reports To: Team Leader
FLSA Status: Part-Time

Summary: As a telesales agent you will create interest to potential customers to switch their current provider and becoming a ZVRS customer.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following:
-- Pro-actively call individuals listed on the company "Hot List"
-- Educate the individual about CSDVRS's product offerings
-- "Sell" the CSDVRS product and features to the individual
-- Convert the "Individual" into a CSDVRS "Customer"
-- End of call should result in the "Customer" placing a confirmation call to CSDVRS audio customer service.
-- Close at least one "verified" customer per hour while working.
-- Maintain up-to-date knowledge on all of CSDVRS's product offerings through a combination of product demonstrations, Tele-Sales meetings, and marketing materials)
-- Transfer all business leads to the Director Internal Ops.
-- Provide clear communication to the Tele-Sales Lead and work all open items to closure

Telesales Responsibilities:
Under the supervision of the Team Leader, effectively carries out the duties listed above in order to create a work environment that is an efficient operation that supports customer satisfaction demands.

Education and/or Experience:
-- Ability to foster a positive work environment
-- Ability to multi-task and problem solve

To perform the job successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following competencies:
-- Demonstrates attention to detail; support customers' satisfaction.
-- Identifies and resolves problems in a timely manner; Assist in developing alternative solutions; Completes projects on time.
-- Responds promptly to customer needs
-- Balances team and individual responsibilities; Contributes to building a positive team spirit; Supports everyone's efforts to succeed.
-- Assist in improving processes, products and services.
-- Available to work a flexible shift based on scheduling needs

Qualifications:
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

-- Must be able to maintain confidentiality.
-- Must have a good understanding of Deaf Culture.
-- Must have excellent signing skills.

Send Resume and Cover Letter to: jobs@zvrs.com

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