For those of you that have not seen the many announcements on this, here you go.  This will be a longer 'test' than we normally see.  There is also a link below for an ASL version.

On Tue, Nov 8, 2011 at 9:37 AM, DHH, Webmaster <DHH.Webmaster@illinois.gov> wrote:
 

U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is working in partnership with other agencies to conduct the first nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System (EAS).  The EAS test plays a key role in ensuring the nation is prepared for any type of emergency that could arise, and that the U.S. public can receive critical and vital information.  Please note the SIGNED video provided below.

WHAT:   Nationwide test of Emergency Alert System

WHEN:   Wednesday, November 9, 2011 at 2 p.m. ET (1:00 p.m. Central time in Illinois)

WHERE:  It will be broadcasted on radio, television stations and other service systems.  Will not involve phone services.

WHO:      U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)

For more information about the nationwide Emergency Alert System (EAS) test including a signed video, please visit the following websites:

·         www.FEMA.gov

·         www.FCC.gov

·         http://www.fema.gov/eastest/

For those of you following this story, here's the latest via the Wisconsin Rapids newspaper.  Link:  http://www.wisconsinrapidstribune.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2011111150521

With the Penn State case being National News, thought it would be interesting to see how something with some of the same scenarios is being handled by a Wisconsin school, the WIAA, ect.

If you care to read the criminal complaint, here's the link:  (Warning - Contains Graphic Content)  http://www.thesmokinggun.com/documents/k-12/wrestlers-busted-locker-room-sex-harassment-231957 

Here's a little more info. on each of the boys that were charged.  http://www.examiner.com/college-wrestling-in-national/four-wis-hs-matmen-plead-not-guilty-of-sexual-harassment-of-teammate?fb_comment=35170771

These charges were filed in the Spring of 2011, yet the Court dates have been delayed to March 2012.  Interesting to see that all 4 of the players allegedly involved are also on the Football team and one is the son of the Wrestling team coach.  The alleged victim is deaf and requires an interpreter. 

Maybe they are just going along with the same opinion as Jerry Sandusky.  It's just 'horseplay'.   We all know that things like this have been going on for decades.  While we will never be able to stop all of it, we need to at least be aware of the possibility of it happening in our world.  Our kids depend on us to make sure that they are safe.  Listen to your kids!  When it takes (according to studies done) a child telling at least 7 adults before these things are looked into, many victims will give up and continue to carry the secret, shame and guilt their entire lives.  Add in the fact that most of these scenarios are initiated by someone the child knows, loves or trusts and it's no wonder so many of the survivors end up carrying this with them their entire life. 

Make a difference, pay attention and talk to your kids.  Let them know that it's ok to come to you with any problem or question that they may have.  You never know, you may be that 7th adult that they try and get some support and guidance from.

Have a great week!

I originally posted this article in 2008.  Now, that we are once again coming up on the Holiday Season, I thought it would be a good time to once again go over a few things to make it more enjoyable for all.

Here's the link:  http://myeldercareblog.com/hear_more_aids/66/hears-to-life-hearing-loss-and-the-holidays-for-seniors-in-wisconsin/

Have a great week!

USA Today posted an article today on this topic.  Here's the link:   

http://www.usatoday.com/news/education/story/2011-11-22/schools-face-shortage-of-interpreters-for-deaf-students/51357730/1 

Here in Wisconsin, we do have the new rules/guidelines/laws that require our Intrepreters to get a certain score on the tests.  Here's the link for more information:  

http://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/sensory/interpreting/InterpretingFP.htm

It was done a few years ago to address the lack of competent Intrepreters in our schools.  Unfortunately, it has also caused our State to now have a lack of 'qualified' Intrepreters.  With the advent of advanced technology, there are possibilities now that can make up for the lack of Intrepreters in the classroom.  Until all of the entities involved, learn to work together and embrace the 'new', we will continue to have the situation of some students not being able to be a part of the class and thus, not being able to get as much as possible out of the educational opportunity. 

Sometimes, you need to step back and see the whole picture instead of following the lead of those that think they know best.  There are too many organizations and entities with their hands in the cookie jar to the point where the main objective is lost.  And yes, there are lobbying groups that make sure their interests are taken care in the legislation process.  

Stop looking at this segment of the population as just a number and see the possibilities.   Believe it or not, there are a lot of us in this category that really do 'Have a Brain'.

Have a great week!