Deafweekly October 7, 2009

deafweekly

October 7, 2009
Vol. 5, No. 17

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 2009 and any unauthorized use is prohibited. Please support our advertisers; they make it possible for you to receive Deafweekly.

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Last week's most-read story: BEFORE THE WEDDING, COUPLE NEED TO CUT DEBTS AND STOP OVERSPENDING / Los Angeles Times
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NATIONAL
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Decatur, GA
NEIGHBOR HELD IN STABBING DEATH OF DEAF WOMAN
Authorities have arrested the neighbor of a deaf woman murdered in her apartment Sunday morning. Tekelia Blackshear, 21, died from multiple stab wounds. Her neighbor at the Oak Creek Apartment complex, Darrel Charles Smith, also 21, was apprehended by the DeKalb Sheriff's Office Fugitive Squad and is being held without bond in the county jail. / Atlanta Journal-Constitution (Note: A source who knows Smith tells Deafweekly that he is deaf and his age is 31, not 21.)

Little Falls, MN
CRASH KILLS SIGN LANGUAGE TEACHER
Melissa Wooden was on her way to work Friday morning, excited to be back in the classroom this fall and about her wedding engagement. The deaf artist and high school American Sign Language teacher died in a two-vehicle collision on Highway 371. She was 30. Wooden, a Little Falls resident, was remembered Friday as an easy-going and active teacher who made a point to reach out to her students and engage them. She was a part-time teacher at Brainerd High School. / Brainerd Dispatch

Richmond, VA
BUS DRIVERS GET SAFETY REFRESHER IN WAKE OF FATAL ACCIDENT
Officials with the GRTC Transit System were reinforcing a message of safety to their drivers yesterday in the wake of an accident a day earlier in which a bus struck and killed a pedestrian. The accident killed Loucendia Reed Lambert, 55, of the Prince George County community of Disputanta. Lambert worked for the Virginia Department of Health in the state's Early Hearing Detection and Intervention Program, a program that identifies and treats hearing loss for all children born in Virginia hospitals. / Richmond Times-Dispatch

Dallas, TX
DEAF WOMAN ATTACKED AT DALLAS APARTMENT COMPLEX
A Dallas woman has been traumatized by a silent attack that left her bruised and bloodied and she may have been targeted because she's deaf. It's been two days since it happened and her injuries are still visible. "He hit me in the eye," explained Kathy Jowers. Jowers couldn't hear the stranger who approached her, but she is still feeling the pain from what he did to her. / CBS 11

Manchester, NH
DEAF NH MAN RESCUES FAMILY FROM FIRE
A deaf New Hampshire man is being hailed as a hero and his mother is hospitalized with life-threatening injuries after he pulled her and two other loved ones from their burning apartment. Kent Clark told television station WMUR through an interpreter that he awoke in a room full of smoke and fire early last Thursday. He tried and failed to rouse his mother, who was staying in the same apartment. / WBZ-38

Chicago, IL
LAWSUIT ACCUSES COP OF FAKE DUI ARRESTS
ABC7 Chicago has learned that a veteran Chicago police officer is under investigation for allegedly making dozens of false DUI arrests, and criminal charges may be coming soon. A grand jury has been hearing from witnesses like Susan Kolinek, who is deaf and says Officer Richard Fiorito ignored her requests for a sign language interpreter. Nonetheless, he still ordered her to perform field sobriety tests. "Close my eyes, tilt my head back and listen to verbal commentary. And I told him, 'I'm deaf. I can't do that.' And he laughed," Kolinek said. "Later, he said, 'You're not deaf. You're just drunk.'" / WLS-ABC7

Washington, DC
STUDY: DISABLED MORE LIKELY TO BE VICTIMS OF VIOLENT CRIME
People with disabilities are 50 percent more likely to be victims of violent crimes than are people without disabilities, according to a government study released last Thursday. The first national study of its kind found that a wide range of disabled people -- including blind, deaf, developmentally disabled, and others with physical and mental limitations -- were victims of assaults, rapes and robberies in 716,000 cases in 2007. The study by the U.S. Justice Department's Bureau of Justice Statistics said instances of violence against disabled people occurred overall 1½ times the rate of those without disabilities, but the numbers varied by age group. / CNN

Tucson, AZ
CUTS COME TO SCHOOLS FOR DEAF AND BLIND
Even the schools that help those who need a little more assistance are under pressure right now. "I'm -- excuse me -- I'm frankly a little emotional," Judy Robbins told the board for the Arizona State Schools for the Deaf and Blind. "There may be some wiggle room, but there is not 8.2 million dollars of wiggle room," superintendent Robert Hill said. Arizona School for the Deaf principal Nancy Amann said that ASDB must find 15 percent in cuts like other state agencies. / KOLD 13 News

San Jose, CA
ECONOMY STALLS RENOVATION OF SCHOOL FOR DEAF AND HARD OF HEARING IN SAN JOSE
Students and staff at the Santa Clara County Deaf and Hard of Hearing Learning Community, located at Oster Elementary School, were looking forward to seeing design plans for the renovation of their facilities at a Sept. 14 meeting. Instead, the Santa Clara County Office of Education canceled the meeting when it learned that the state funding for this project, approved by voters in 2004, had been frozen until further notice. "We are really disappointed," says parent Sharadon Smith. / Mercury News

Columbus, OH
1950S-ERA BLIND, DEAF SCHOOLS PREP FOR $43M FACELIFT
SHP Leading Design in Columbus has drawn up plans for new buildings for both the Ohio State School for the Blind and the Ohio School for the Deaf. The schools are neighbors, built in the 1950s on a former golf course. The $43 million construction project calls for new academic centers and individual dormitory cottages for each campus. Robert Grinch, senior project administrator at the Ohio School Facilities Commission, said if all goes as planned, construction will start in the spring, and the schools will move into the new buildings during the summer of 2011. / Columbus Business First

Scranton, PA
SCHOOL'S NAME NOT THE ONLY CHANGE FOR SSSD
One month into the new school year -- with a new name, new paint and new library -- officials at the Scranton School for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Children say there is more change than meets the eye. "There's really a very positive sense, a very supportive sense," Principal Nancy Benham said. "The students are doing great. They've adjusted beautifully." / The Times-Tribune

Brattleboro, VT
CHANGING WITH THE TIMES: AUSTINE SCHOOL ADAPTING TO NEW STUDENT BODY
The Austine School for the Deaf has been changing from almost the first year it opened its doors. The school opened in 1904 and started accepting blind and deaf students in 1912. By 1917 the school devoted itself exclusively to educating the deaf and over the years the school has continued to adjust its mission to met the changing needs of its students. Now, as the school recognizes another shift in the makeup of its student population, the Brattleboro campus is undergoing one of its largest renovations in years. / Brattleboro Reformer

Washington, DC
GALLAUDET NAMES THREE NEW TRUSTEES
It is my great pleasure to announce the appointments of three new Board of Trustees members: Claire Bugen, Jameson (Jay) Crane, Jr., and Heather Harker. Each of these new trustees brings extensive knowledge in their respective field and will be an invaluable asset to the board. The new trustees will attend orientation prior to the start of the October board meeting and will not participate in the selection of the new president. Sincerely, Benjamin J. Soukup, Chair, Board of Trustees. / Gallaudet Daily Digest

Palo Alto, CA
MAJOR OUTAGE HITS T-MOBILE SIDEKICK USERS
Users of T-Mobile's Sidekick have been suffering through a major outage over the past several days that left many without access to the Web or their address books. Microsoft, whose Danger subsidiary powers the Sidekick service, said it is "working urgently" to deal with the problems, which interrupted data service for most Sidekick users starting at 1:30 a.m. PDT on Friday. The level of disruption has varied, though most users have been affected, Microsoft said. / CNET News

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INTERNATIONAL
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Johor Baru, Malaysia
RELATIVE CLAIMS DEAF-MUTE MURDER VICTIM AND SON HAD ARGUED
The body of a 47-year-old deaf-mute woman was found bundled up in a travel bag placed underneath the kitchen sink at her home in Kampung MIC. Police are looking for her 22-year-old son to facilitate investigations, with a relative claiming the son had acted suspiciously on Monday when she was reported missing. The relative also claimed the mother and son had an argument recently. / The Star

Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
ABUSE AT DEAF SCHOOL? STUDENTS WHO ATTENDED IN '70S AND '80S ARE SUING PROVINCE
Two former students of the Manitoba School for the Deaf are suing the province alleging they suffered years of sexual abuse and harassment at the hands of staff and classmates at the school. The women -- both now in their 40s -- attended the school in the 1970s and 1980s. They are seeking a court order certifying the case as a class-action suit. Reached by telephone, a staff member at the school offered a brief "no comment" before hanging up on a reporter. / Winnipeg Sun

Cape Town, South Africa
NO HERO'S WELCOME FOR 7-GOLD MEDALIST
The ANC Youth League says it did not greet swimmer Terence Parkin at the airport last month after his recent gold medal haul at the Deaflympics in Taiwan because the media did not report on the swimmer's success. Durban's Parkin, 29, has been dubbed the "Silent Torpedo" by the international media after he won seven gold medals, broke two world records and five Deaflympics records at Taipei in Taiwan. / Independent Online

Manama, Bahrain
MP URGES JOBS FOR THE DEAF
Unemployed deaf people could soon be granted jobs following the intervention of a top MP. Parliament second vice-chairman Dr Salah Ali has written to Education Minister Dr Majid Al Nuaimi urging him to find work for more than 60 unemployed deaf people. "The country cares about all its citizens and is keen on granting them jobs that is suitable for their circumstances," he said. "The ministry should follow this and grant these unemployed citizens jobs that suit their disability." / Gulf Daily News

Malé, Maldives
COURT RULES AGAINST FAMILY OF DEAF CHILD
A civil court judge last Tuesday ruled against awarding Rf7.1 million (US$550,000) in damages for medical negligence to the parents of a six-year-old girl who allegedly turned deaf after being given a series of antibiotic injections. Ahmed Ihsan, father of Aishath Iyaan, who was aged three when she was given the shots, told Minivan News today that he was disappointed to hear the verdict and would lodge an appeal at High Court. Shaheen Hameed, the family’s lawyer, said the civil court ruled the prosecution had been unable to prove negligence. / Minivan News

Doncaster, England
BANK CUSTOMERS IN SIGN LANGUAGE PROJECT
Customers at a Doncaster bank will be learning their own names in sign language next week as part of a project linked to Doncaster Deaf Trust's new youth trampoline project. Customers visiting the High Street branch of HSBC from October 5 to 8 can find out how to "sign" their names and make a donation to the scheme. The aim is to manage behaviour through exercise therapy, promoting balance, sensory abilities and communication skills. / The Star

Altrincham, England
JORDAN'S LAUNCHES RENTAL SERVICE FOR THE DEAF
Jordan’s has launched a property rental service for deaf and hard of hearing clients. The North West-based lettings network has teamed up Geemarc Telecom to provide the service, which offers an amplified telephone or textphone to any house rented by a deaf or hard of hearing client. It is part of the efforts of Altrincham assistant branch manager Jenni Kavanagh to make the sector as accessible as possible to these clients. / The Negotiator

Xa Dan, Vietnam
DEAF MUTE STUDENTS LEARN TO TALK ABOUT SEX
Since April 2007, the World Population Foundation has conducted a pilot program aimed at teaching sexual and reproductive health (SRH) at the Xa Dan School for hearing-impaired students. The program is comprised of three parts: developing an SRH curriculum (including HIV/AIDS awareness) for deaf students, creating the first SRH sign language glossary in Viet Nam and providing SRH knowledge and teaching skills for teachers. / LookAtVietnam

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Save During October Fire Safety Month

October is Fire Safety Month. Harris Communications wants to remind you to check your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors/alarms to make sure they are operating correctly. Do you have an alarm or alerting device that will wake you up? If not, take a look at the products at Harris Communications that are designed for deaf and hard of hearing people. Alerting options include bed shakers, strobe lights, and loud alarms.

To encourage you to keep safe, Harris Communications has all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors/alarms on sale at 20% discounts for the whole month of October!

This sale ends October 30, 2009.

Visit our website or contact us at: mailto:info@harriscomm.com.

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YOUR BRAIN OVERLOADED on what to give as GIFTS to your loved ones, friends and family?

SOLUTION! Two online stores offer unique art and designs on t-shirts, hoodies, tote and messenger bags, mousepad and etc. Check them out by clicking the links below . . .

www.cafepress.com/rappazzo_peace

www.cafepress.com/rappazzo_asl

Mary A. Rappazzo, a deaf artist, created her online stores and is listed in an art book: "Deaf Artists in America: Colonial to Contemporary" by Deborah Sonnenstrahl.

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LIFE & LEISURE
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Washington, DC
HELEN KELLER STATUE TO BE UNVEILED AT CAPITOL
On Wednesday (today), a statue commemorating Helen Keller will be unveiled in the U.S. Capitol's National Statuary Hall, the first statue in the Capitol of a person with a disability, as well as the first of a child, according to the Alabama governor's office. "It's always good to realize how much of an impact people with disabilities have made on the history and landscape of our country," said Nancy Starnes, director of external affairs for the Washington-based National Organization on Disability. "I'm excited that they're going to be doing this. I think it's going to be a wonderful addition." / CNN

Mount Pleasant, MI
DEAF WORLD EVENT SHOWS THE HEARING WHAT IT'S LIKE TO LIVE IN THE NON-HEARING WORLD
Nicole Jeffrey said she felt nervous as she tried to adapt to a world much different from her own. Jeffrey, a Northville sophomore, tried to carry out daily activities, such as going to the bank or participating in a classroom, while being the only person who could hear. Jeffrey, along with about 150 other students, participated in the Deaf World event last Tuesday night, where students learned how it felt to live in the non-hearing world. / Central Michigan Life

West Palm Beach, FL
HEARUSA INTRODUCES AARP HEARING CARE PROGRAM FOR AMERICANS AGED 50-PLUS
Designed to help millions of Americans aged 50+ who have untreated hearing loss, the AARP Hearing Care program, provided by HearUSA, was launched in New Jersey last Thursday as part of the initial phase of a nationwide rollout. Initially, the program will be available through the company's 13 owned and operated New Jersey hearing care centers. The company said other qualified hearing care providers in New Jersey and across the nation will be invited to participate. / Earth Times

Fishkill, NY
ROMBOUT FIREFIGHTERS HOLD SAFETY SESSION FOR HEARING IMPAIRED
Rombout Fire Company, in partnership with Taconic Resources for Independence, hosted a fire prevention seminar for the deaf and hearing-impaired last month. The seminar started with the staff of Taconic Recourses and about 20 guests experiencing the simulated smoke conditions in the Town of Fishkill Fire Prevention Safety Trailer. The trailer helps teach about fire prevention at home and urges planning and practicing a fire escape plan. This was followed by a car extrication drill with the Jaws of Life. / Poughkeepsie Journal

Mays Landing, NJ
ATLANTIC CITY ELECTRIC DONATES SMOKE ALARMS
Atlantic City Electric’s Emergency Services Partnership Program is donating more than $11,000 worth of smoke alarms through the New Jersey Division of Fire Safety to fire marshals in southern New Jersey. The smoke alarm donations include 100 units that are designed to help protect special needs individuals, specifically those who are hard of hearing. These smoke alarms emit a bright white strobe light in addition to an intense, high-volume alarm. / Shore News Today

San Diego, CA
NOISE HURTS MEN'S HEARING MORE, STUDY SHOWS
New research suggests that men -- especially married white men -- are much more likely to develop noise-induced hearing loss than women. But there's some good news: Another study finds that older men who take high doses of folate can decrease their risk of hearing loss by 20 percent. / HealthDay News

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Nassau and Suffolk County NY
EXPERT TUTORING FOR HEARING IMPAIRED ELEMENTARY SCHOOL CHILDREN

Darlene Schaefer, Certified Teacher of the Deaf, with over 20 years of ORAL, SIGN and TOTAL COMMUNICATION teaching experience, has switched from full-time classroom teaching to providing the one-on-one extra help that can make your child more successful. Language development, academic and social life-skills can now be provided at your home, Mrs. Schaefer’s office in Melville, NY, or other venues. References upon request. Reasonable rates. FREE INITIAL CONSULTATION. Call or email today to give your child the boost they need.

Contact:
Darlene Schaefer
631 643-2065
516 330-3997
iHelpDeafKids@aol.com

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WORKING WORLD
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Troy, AL
INTERPRETER PROGRAM RECEIVES $1.5 MILLION
Just when Troy University’s interpreter training program funds were about to run out, the Alabama Dual Party Relay Board came through -- with $1.5 million to be exact. The university and the relay board officially announced a partnership last Tuesday that will provide additional funding for the school’s Interpreter Training Program and eventually start a Center for Deafness on the Troy Campus. The board will donate $300,000 to the university every year for five years, and the funds are something Dean of the College of Education Lance Tatum said will sustain the program. / Troy Messenger

Bonita Springs, FL
SERVICE WITH SMILE MAKES THIS BONITA SPRINGS BARTENDER STAND OUT
Tom Boyle, 41, is the top bartender at the open-air getaway that is the Lake House Bar & Grill. The islandy spot is hidden behind the Trianon Hotel at the Promenade at Bonita Bay in Bonita Springs. What makes Boyle even more outstanding, his boss and regular customers say, is that he does so well with a hearing impairment. Born profoundly deaf with 97 percent hearing loss, Boyle is a better communicator than many without hearing issues. / Fort Myers News-Press

East Lansing, MI
MSU ASSISTANT PROFESSOR LEADS STUDY ON HEARING DISORDERS
For Michigan State University researchers, a basic human function might hold the key to understanding confusing and complex disorders. Laura Dilley, an assistant professor in the Department of Communicative Sciences and Disorders, will lead a five-year, more than $450,000 study on how spoken words affect hearing impairment. The National Science Foundation-funded grant will pay for research equipment and create between 15 and 20 part-time positions and one full-time position in the Department of Communicative Sciences and Disorders. Dilley said 10 positions are filled. / The State News

Washington, DC
SIGN LANGUAGE INTERPRETING AGENCY LAUNCHES NEW VIDEO REMOTE INTERPRETING SERVICE
TCS Associates has launched TCSterps On-Demand, a Video Relay Interpreting (VRI) service providing Sign Language Interpreting for Deaf/Hard-of-Hearing people throughout the United States and Canada. TCSterps On-Demand VRI service is an easy-to-use on-demand system that uses the latest Internet videoconferencing and web-based technologies to access sign language interpreting services without an interpreter on-site. Instead of having an interpreter physically present with the Deaf/Hard-of-Hearing and hearing parties, the interpreter is located at one of TCS Associates offices and facilitates communication remotely via video. / PRWeb

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10% off GENTEX SMOKE DETECTORS AT WCI!

Safeguard your home with a Gentex Smoke Detector and save 10% off the price in October. Choose from either hardwired or portable units. Each one offers a reliable, early warning to the presence of smoke. For more details and to order, call us now 1-800-233-9130 (V/TTY) or visit us online at http://www.weitbrecht.com/specials.html?utm_source=dw (Use code WCID1009). For a copy of our new catalog, email your request to sales@weitbrecht.com.

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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
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Silver Spring, MD
NAD CALLS OUT NETFLIX ON CAPTIONS
On September 9, 2009, the National Association of the Deaf requested that Netflix provide a captioned version of “The Wizard of Oz” movie that Netflix made available online, for free, for everyone on October 3, 2009. Netflix disregarded the NAD request along with thousands of letters, emails, comments, and tweets urging Netflix to caption the movie. Today, the NAD expressed its dismay at the lack of any response from Netflix and its failure to make this 70th anniversary celebration of “The Wizard of Oz” accessible to 36 million deaf and hard of hearing viewers. / NAD News

Rochester, NY
FAIRPORT-PRODUCED BASEBALL MOVIE GATHERS HONORS
Much has changed about Signs of the Time since the locally produced documentary premiered at the George Eastman House last year. Academy Award-winning actor Richard Dreyfuss is the new narrator. Major League Baseball footage has been added, including the controversial 1975 World Series play involving Cincinnati batter Ed Armbrister and Boston catcher Carlton Fisk. And the 60-minute baseball film is on the festival trail, already winning "Best Documentary" at the High Falls Festival in Rochester last May and the SoCal Film Festival in Huntington Beach, Calif., last weekend. / Democrat and Chronicle

Port Townsend, WA
POET REFLECTS ON 30 YEARS OF PUBLISHING POETRY
Sam Hamill, poet, publisher, editor and translator, co-founded the Copper Canyon Press in 1972. The publishing house has produced more than 350 titles. In addition to editing and publishing, Hamill has produced 40 books, including "Almost Paradise," "Dumb Luck," "Gratitude," and translations of ancient Chinese and Japanese classics. Suffering from hearing loss, Hamill answered questions by e-mail. / Kearney (Neb.) Hub

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Keith Wann's ASL Comedy Tour 2009-2010

Keith Wann, renowned for his hilarious, sidesplitting comedy performances, is now producing and hosting the ASL Comedy Tour 2009, which will travel the U.S. this year. With American Sign Language (ASL) artists presenting solo performances incorporating comedy, skits, songs, improvisation, and stories, each show lasts two hours. Sponsored by www.CallVRS.org, the multi-city tour is designed to be affordable for each location – making it ideal as a fundraiser for participating organizations.

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

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

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SPORTS
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Washington, DC
ANDY BONHEYO FEATURED AS 'PERSON OF THE WEEK' ON 'WORLD NEWS WITH CHARLES GIBSON'
Every Friday, "World News with Charles Gibson" features a "Person of the Week," someone who has made a difference to the world or the country or a community. On October 2, that person was Andy Bonheyo, a 1985 graduate of Gallaudet. Bonheyo's profile was broadcast on ABC stations across the country. Bonheyo recently earned national attention when he was selected to attend the National Football League's summer coaching summit. / Gallaudet University News

Rochester, NY
DEAF WRESTLER SUBJECT OF FILM SHOT IN AREA
Matt Hamill was born deaf, so his grandfather signed him up for the elementary school wrestling team to raise his self-esteem and help him fit in the hearing world. It worked. In fact, Hamill's career has been so compelling that a production company was on the campus of Rochester Institute of Technology last week filming scenes for a movie about his life. Hamill, who grew up in Loveland, Ohio, won three NCAA Division III national wrestling championships as a student at RIT. Now he's a professional fighter in the UFC — Ultimate Fighting Championship. / Democrat and Chronicle

Philadelphia, PA
O'STEEN REFLECTS ON HER GOLD MEDAL ACCOMPLISHMENT
La Salle University Women’s Soccer junior Kelly O'Steen recently returned home from Taipei, Taiwan after competing in the Deaflympics, helping Team USA to gold. “It was the best experience of my life,” said O’Steen. “To be able to stand up there and receive a gold medal and have your own national anthem played over the loud speaker is such a tremendous experience. “Everyone I’ve been talking to has been saying, ‘Wow! I wish I could do something like that!’ I definitely want to go back and do it as many times as I can, as long as my knees hold out. And if I can’t play anymore, I’d like to go back as a coach.” / CBS College Sports

New York, NY
DEAF BROOKLYN SHOT-PUTTER COMES HOME AFTER WINNING GOLD MEDAL AT DEAFLYMPICS
Joanel Lopez, 24, a Crown Heights shot put star, has returned triumphantly to Brooklyn after winning the gold medal at the Summer Deaflympics in Taipei. "Of course I was nervous," wrote Lopez in an e-mail. "But worse [than competing] was ... the taxi." Lopez said driving to Taipei Stadium was harrowing. "Taiwan's traffic system seemed a little odd for me," he said. "When they drive [there] ... they go this way and turn that way." In Taiwan, Lopez launched the 16-pound ball 16.26 meters -- nearly 54 feet -- to win the gold. He also set a personal best in the hammer throw. / NY Daily News

Frederick, MD
ORIOLES DEFEAT TEXAS FOR THEIR FOURTH STRAIGHT WIN
Maryland School for the Deaf's football team continued its domination of deaf opponents Saturday, blanking Texas School for the Deaf, 48-0. The Orioles (5-1), winners of four straight, have not lost to a deaf opponent in nearly nine years. Along the way, MSD has won seven national deaf prep football crowns in the last eight years, including six straight. / Frederick News Post

Lely, FL
DEAFNESS IS NO DEFICIT FOR LELY SENIOR
Lely High School defensive lineman Cesar Torres saw the deflected pass spinning toward him. The 6-foot, 225-pounder reached out, hauled in the ball and rumbled 30 yards with his prize before being pushed out of bounds. The interception set up Lely's first touchdown in the Trojans' 21-7 win over Golden Gate last Friday.The play might be the highlight of any player's season, but it's even more meaningful for Torres. The senior, who was born deaf, is playing his first season of high school football. / Fort Myers News-Press

Edinburgh, IN
EDINBURGH STILL REVELING IN WIN
Fourth-year Edinburgh football coach Kyle Wheeler is feeling just fine this week. A 12-7 win on Friday at Indiana Deaf snapped Edinburgh's 52-game losing streak. Before Friday, Edinburgh's last win was by forfeit over South Decatur on Sept. 10, 2004. It had been 68 games since the Lancers' last on-field win, a 26-12 decision over Indiana Deaf on Oct. 4, 2002. / Indianapolis Star

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callVRS has a new facelift and continues to give you the "freedom of choice"! callVRS allows you to find your favorite interpreter for your many needs. Keith Wann is now showing his serious side by bringing us a VRS company that his parents would be proud of...and one where interpreters want to work. You have seen him do silly commercials for other VRS companies, but he is also a Nationally Certified Interpreter, NIC Master and CI CT and calls himself a profesional Coda interpreter. "For the other VRS companies, I was a paid actor, with callVRS my true voice can be heard... It's time we have a VRS provider focus on the interpreters along with the callers to make the VRS experience better for everyone!" www.callVRS.org - dial callVRS.info on your video phone.

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MILESTONES
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Cork, Ireland
IRISH-BORN PRIEST SPREAD LOVE OF MUSIC TO PARISHES
The Rev. Christopher T. Twohig, 85, an Irish-born parish priest who served in five Catholic churches in the Washington area, and in the 1950s and 1960s conducted Masses in sign language at Gallaudet University, died of pneumonia Sept. 19 at St. Joseph's Hospital in Cork, Ireland. While not officially a chaplain at Gallaudet, he engaged with the students, helping them find jobs and introducing them to other Washington residents. He learned sign language to communicate and to conduct Masses. / The Washington Post

Olathe, KS
TRIBUTE | KATHLEEN FINN MADE LASTING IMPRESSION AT SCHOOL FOR THE DEAF
Who: Kathleen A. Finn, 61, of Olathe
When and how she died: Sept. 20, of cancer
A life of teaching: Kathy Anderson Finn found a career that perfectly suited her gentle nature, her family and friends said: She worked with students with hearing impairments. / The Kansas City Star

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EVENTS
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Columbus, OH
NLTC '09 REGISTRATION DEADLINE EXTENDED!
More than 100 people are now registered for the 2nd Annual NAD Leadership Training Conference, to be held October 29-November 1, 2009 at the Hyatt at Capitol Square in Columbus, Ohio. Take advantage of the new deadline for conference registration and hotel reservations, now extended to October 9, 2009. Learn more about our impressive roster of NLTC ’09 trainers: Mark Apodaca, Shane Feldman, Shilpa Hanumantha, Pamela Lloyd-Ogoke, James Macfadden, Deborah Mayer, William McGee, Elizabeth Pollard, Julie Rems-Smario, Howard Rosenblum, and Darlene Goncz Zangara. / NAD News

Fremont, CA
SAN FRANCISCO 49'ERS RONNIE LOTT AIMS TO INSPIRE DEAF STUDENTS
Hall of Fame player and former 49er star Ronnie Lott aims to inspire deaf students and honor the California School for the Deaf’s (CSD) Hall of Fame inductees during CSD’s 150th Anniversary Homecoming Pep Rally. "Because of his determination and successes, he will be able to inspire anyone and the deaf students are fortunate to be in his presence. We are excited about his presence at our important event,” explained Kevin Kovacs, CSD’s Athletic Director. For the most of Lott’s career, he played for the San Francisco 49ers and won three Super Bowls. Then, he became a well-known sports television anchor after his retirement. / CSDF News Release

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

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JOB OPENING
KRC OUTREACH COORDINATOR (KANSAS)

Hamilton Relay, Inc. currently has a full-time position open for “KRC Outreach Coordinator” for the state of Kansas.

Applications and Job Descriptions may be picked up from and returned to Cindy Blase in Human Resource Department by October 16, 2009. (Any questions concerning the opening can be directed to Cindy/Human Resource Department.)

Equal Opportunity Employer

Position summary: This full-time position is responsible for coordinating and implementing outreach activities designed to promote Telecommunications Relay Services (TRS) and Captioned Telephone Relay Service (CapTel®) for Kansas Relay Center.

Preferred education, experience and skills:
Knowledge of American Sign Language is preferred.
Knowledge of and ability to understand various communication modes used by current and potential relay users.
Direct work experience with Telecommunication Relay Service or knowledge of Captioned Telephone Relay Services is helpful
Experience in public relations activities.
Ability to organize and prioritize work and meet deadlines.
Strong written, analytical and interpersonal skills.
Hold a valid driver’s license.
Individuals who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing are encouraged to apply.

Interested individuals may apply by logging on to http://www.hamiltonrelay.com/corporate/careers/index.html, or may contact Cindy Blase in the Human Resource Corporate Department by October 16, 2009.

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

Hamilton Relay, Inc. is a division of Hamilton Telecommunications based in Aurora, NE. Hamilton offers a competitive wage and benefits package. Contact our HR Dept. at: 800.821.1831 V/TTY or email at HR@hamiltontel.com.

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EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY: Available Now

Las Vegas Charter School of the Deaf
1951 S. Rainbow Blvd
Las Vegas, NV 89146

DATE: October 2009

POSITION: ELEMENTARY TEACHER

REQUIRED CREDENTIALS:
Send an application, current resume, letters of recommendation and copies of transcripts

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
-- Bachelor’s Degree, preferably Master's Degree in Deaf Education
-- Experience teaching and working with Deaf and hard of hearing students
-- Proficiency in American Sign Language (ASL) at the advanced skill level

MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
-- Performs work associated with standards-based student instruction: prepares lesson plans and develops input for the Individualized Education Plan (IEP).
-- Demonstrates knowledge and skill in the areas of assessments, progress monitoring, behavior management, and curriculum development.
-- Participates in activities related to staff development and training/workshops.

TO OBTAIN INFORMATION, Please contact Cathy Bennett, Director at cbennett@lvcsd.org

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TEACHER OF THE DEAF – Middle School, Language Arts
COLORADO SCHOOL for the DEAF and the BLIND

Official job announcement may be found under non-classified employment at CSDB’s website…http://www.csdb.org

Salary based on appropriate education and experience. Excellent benefits. Open until filled. Interviews conducted on-site at CSDB. Send letter of interest, current resume, completed Employment Application, recent letters of recommendation, copies of transcripts, and a copy of current teacher certification to:

Chelle Lutz
CSDB - HR
33 North Institute Street
Colorado Springs, CO 80903
(719) 578-2114 (phone)
(719) 578-2239 (fax)
E-mail: clutz@csdb.org

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Northwestern Connecticut Community College - "The small college that does great things" is anticipating the following openings:

Director of Collegiate Education for Deaf & Hard of Hearing

Instructor in Interpreter Preparation - American Sign Language/English

To learn more about us and for a copy of the vacancy announcement, including minimum qualifications, application process and deadline, please visit our Website at www.nwcc.commnet.edu.

EOE/AA/M/F

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Job Announcement
Job Title: Executive Director
Employer: Southwest Washington Center of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing, Inc. (SWCDHH)
Vancouver, Washington

Job Description:
These responsibilities include management of personnel and services: implementation of Board policies; communication with the public, Board and community; program development; fundraising; data collection and fulfilling state reporting requirements; and direct client services to provide mentoring, advocacy, community access, and information and referral.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities:

Knowledge and Abilities Desired:
- Thorough familiarity with the American Deaf culture and issues facing Deaf and Deaf-Blind consumers is required.
- Full knowledge of the special needs and issues of those who are Hard of Hearing.
- An understanding of the current issues related to Deaf, Deaf-Blind, and Hard of Hearing consumers accessing public and social services, in addition to familiarity with laws and regulations pertaining to Deaf, Deaf-Blind, and Hard of Hearing consumers.
- Demonstrated knowledge of budgeting concepts and practices, knowledge of personnel management practices and knowledge of the social service delivery system.
- Proven ability/skills with grant writing.

Minimum Qualifications/Required Skills:
- A Bachelor's degree in Social Services, Counseling, Psychology, or a related field; a Master's degree is preferred
- Experience in providing social services to the Deaf, Deaf-Blind and Hard of Hearing (3 years) with supervisory experience (1 year)
- Fluency in American Sign Language
- Good communication skills including presentations and report writing.

Salary and benefits based upon qualifications and experience.
SWCDHH is an equal opportunity employer; people with disabilities and minorities are encouraged to apply.

TO APPLY: Please submit cover letter, resume, and list of 3 professional references by regular mail or email.

Deadline: October 20, 2009

Mail: ATTN: Search Committee - Executive Committee
% SWCDHH
PO Box 871268
Vancouver, WA 98687

Email: mailto:stromberg@swcdhh.org

For more information, contact John Burke (Board Chairman) at mailto:johnsign13@yahoo.com

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Purple Account Services Rep
Location: Rocklin, CA

Purple Communications’ vision is to improve the quality of life of its customers by being their premier provider of high quality, innovative communication services that break down communications barriers.
We are experiencing tremendous growth and are looking to add strong expertise to our world-class teams!

Brief summary of duties:
Under the supervision of the Manager – Sales Operations, the Purple Account Services Representative will be responsible for making outbound calls and managing incoming calls for device qualification. In addition, the PAS Representative will help educate customers on the company’s products and services. The representative will also be required to maintain accounts through follow up and customer retention surveys.

Areas of Responsibility:
* Utilize the Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system to develop and maintain customers, and to continually update relevant customer information as required
* Communicate company value proposition to build loyalty, and maintain customer base
* Provide follow up support for all accounts
* Other duties may be assigned as needed.

Minimum Qualification Requirements:
* Ability to effectively communicate using American Sign Language (ASL)
* Basic knowledge of MS Excel and MS Outlook
* Extremely organized and highly motivated
* Excellent written communication skills, and ability to communicate effectively through email
* Attention to detail and ability to maintain accuracy in data entry
* Ability to work a flexible shift between the hours of 8:00 am and 8:00 pm. PST

Experience with the following is a plus:
* Experience with CRM a plus

Physical Requirements:
Employees may experience the following physical demands for extended periods of time:
* Sitting, standing and walking (95-100%)
* Keyboarding (40-60%)
* Viewing computer monitor, videophone, and pager requiring close vision (40-60%)

Work Environment:
Work is performed in a business office environment. Some travel to company, customer and vendor sites, including some that are out of state may be required.

TO APPLY:
Please submit your resume to: www.purple.us. Click on the Careers tab and job listings, or submit your resume directly to terri.coppel@purple.us in the Recruiting Dept.

Purple Communications is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Principals only please.

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Customer Retention and Recruiting Specialist
Location: Corona, CA

About Purple Communications:
Purple Communications is one of the nation's largest providers of communication services for the deaf, hard of hearing, and speech-disabled communities. As a leading provider of onsite interpreting services, video relay and text relay services, and video remote interpreting, the Company delivers a wide array of options designed to meet the varied communication needs of its customers. Purple Communication’s vision is to improve the quality of life of its customers by being their premier provider of high quality, innovative communication services that break down communications barriers.

Brief summary of duties:
Customer Retention Specialist / Customer Recruiting Representative will be responsible for qualifying leads by cold calling and teaching customers how to use VRS services. This position works with customers on an outbound and inbound basis, helping them resolve any issues they may have related to using Purple products. In addition, they will call prospective deaf customers and convert them to become customers of Purple Communications. The representative will also be required to maintain accounts through follow up and customer retention surveys.

Areas of Responsibility:
1. Responsible for gathering data on both satisfied and dissatisfied customers and will work with other Purple teams to bring any customer issues to resolution.
2. Make outbound calls & qualify leads provided by Marketing or referrals
3. Market and provide support for VRS & Text Relay Services
4. Convert original equipment to use Purple communications / Hands On VRS
5. Communicate company value proposition to build loyalty, and maintain customer base
6. Provide follow up support for all accounts (inactive and active)
7. Other duties may be assigned as needed.

Minimum Qualification Requirements:
1. Communicate effectively with customers
2. Requires the ability to stay on track and meet daily production goals.
3. Requires an energetic and outgoing person
4. Must be friendly, empathetic, a good team player, quick thinker and be able to multi task effectively

*** Good English skills and ASL fluency are required ***

Physical Requirements
Employees may experience the following physical demands for extended periods of time:
* Sitting, standing and walking (95-100%)
* Keyboarding (40-60%)
* Viewing computer monitor, videophone, and pager requiring close vision (40-60%)

Work Environment:
Work is performed in a business office environment. Some travel to company, customer and vendor sites, including some that are out of state may be required.

TO APPLY:
Please submit your resume to: www.purple.us. Click on the Careers tab and job listings, or submit your resume directly to terri.coppel@purple.us in the Recruiting Dept.

Purple Communications is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Principals only please.

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