This is a unique opportunity for those with hearing loss wanting to know more about hearing loops.  There is a conference up in the Wisconsin Dells on Jan. 9, 2010 for Audiologists and hearing loss professionals.  One of the key speakers is going to be David Myers from Michigan.

For those of you that do not know who David is, here is his website.  In my opinion, he is one of the few people in the United States that really knows the ins and outs of hearing loops.  Because of his work, the State of Michigan is leaps and bounds ahead of any other State in the U.S. when it comes to hearing loops in public venues.

Website for David Myers:   www.hearingloop.org

If you have hearing loss and want to learn more about this, an invitation has been extended to all of you for free admission to his presentation on Jan. 9th.  Here's the details of where and when.

Kalahari Resort

1305 Kalahari Drive

Wisconsin Dells

 January 9^th from 10.30-12.30 Room A-H

Take advantage of this opportunity and learn more about how you can make your home, car, office and public places more accessible to those with hearing loss.  It's pretty cool to be in this environment and all that you need is a t-coil program on your hearing aid to experience it.  When you arrive at Kalahari Resort just let them know that you are attending the presentation at no charge due to the fact that you have hearing loss compliments of Julliette Sterkens (audiologist from the Fox Valley area).

Thanks Juliette!  If you don't know if you have a t-coil/telephone program on your hearing aid, it would certainly be worth a call to your audi to find out.  Don't forget to bring a spare battery!  And, feel free to let me know how you like 'being in the loop'!

Have a great week!

Copyright 2010 Tami Klink

While visiting our son and his family in Florida recently, we were able to see how Floridians handle the cold.  There were many temperature records broken and tomorrow night there's a possibility of snow flurries in some parts of the state.  Being a Wisconsin resident, we spent a lot of time chuckling as we saw people wearing layers of clothing complete with heavy coats, gloves and hats when the temperature hit 30.

Here's what is falling 'out of the sky' down in Florida.  At least we don't have to deal with this! :)

www.justnews.com/news/22152242/detail.html

A word to the wise, these lizards are not very friendly.  So, if you are thinking of keeping one of them for a pet, you may want to invest in some very heavy gloves.  They Bite!

Have a great week!

Copyright 2010 Tami Klink

Some of you may have already seen this.  But, I felt that it was worth passing on. 

As you know, I have written articles about the conflict of interest that AARP has in the past.  They are still working to line their pockets via the insurance industry and really don't have the best interests of the Seniors that they claim to represent.

Here's another persons' opinion on the group.  Thanks to Steve and Mary for sending it my way.

Recently, there were changes in how much the TEPP program (Wisconsin) will pay towards telecommunications equipment.  Unfortunately, the amounts have gone down.  Considerably.  It will be interesting to see if the manufacturers of these devices will also follow and lower the prices on the products so that those that are D/HOH can afford to have what most other people consider a normal part of life.  That is, a telephone that they can hear and use.

I would also be interested to know why the amount that we are now paying on our landline phone bills (USF fee) to cover this program has not been reduced significantly due to the reduction in monies now being used for those that qualify.  Before Dec., 2009, the amounts were up to $800 to be used for equipment.  Now, for those that are HOH, it is $100.  So, what is the excess monies being used for?  Will see what I can find out and post the information in another column.

Here are the details with the website links for additional information.

psc.wi.gov/consumerinfo/assistanceprograms/tepp/tepp-ind.htm

Have a great week!

Hands and Voices, a Wisconsin based advocatcy group is looking for parents of D/HOH children who are receiving services here in Wisconsin.  If you would like to participate, please answer the questions below and then email it to Hands and Voices.  The email address is:  handsandvoiceswi@yahoo.com 

Here's the survey.

ODHH Net

Installment #497, January - 2010

In this Installment: CALENDAR: EVENTS/SAVE THE DATES/WORKSHOPS is updated with each installment. Reminders pages include SUPPORT FOR PARENTS/FAMILIES, LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES, and JOB OPPORTUNITIES. 
 

• HLAA NEWS
• NAD NEWS
• NEWS FROM MINNESOTA
• MODEL COMMUNITIES PROJECT: MINI-GRANT COMPETITION
• LEGISLATIVE NEWS – STATE AND FEDERAL
• ARTICLES & PUBLICATIONS OF INTEREST
• SUPPORT FOR INDIVIDUALS/PARENTS/FAMILIES—NEW ANNOUNCEMENTS
• LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES—NEW ANNOUNCEMENTS
• JOB OPPORTUNITIES—NEW ANNOUNCEMENTS
• CALENDAR: EVENTS/SAVE THE DATES/WORKSHOPS
• REMINDERS:
  • Support for iNDIVIDUALS/Parents/Families
  • Learning Opportunities
  • Job Opportunities

HLAA NEWS

**Walk4Hearing program surpassed its fundraising goal of $1 million for 2009! Dedicated volunteers organized Walk events in 21 cities across the country, with more than 4000 people participating. Join HLAA-Wisconsin in a 5K Walk4Hearing on May 16, 2010 at Veteran’s Park on the Milwaukee Lakefront. Alliances, sponsors, team leaders, and walkers are lining up! Gather at 9:30 a.m. Walk at 10:00 a.m. Visit www.walk4hearing.org for more Walk information. #497

NAD NEWS

**Call for workshop and commission presentations: The NAD is seeking proposals for exciting, informative, and forward-looking education, training and public policy presentations at the 50^th Biennial NAD Conference to be held at the Philadelphia Marriott-Downtown hotel, July 6-10, 2010. The conference theme is “Celebrate Our Heritage.” Presentation deadline is February 15, 2010. Details available at http://www.nad.org/node/528.  #497

NEWS FROM MINNESOTA

**Target Field, home park of the Minnesota Twins is possibly the most accessible venue in the U.S. for people with hearing loss. A press release last month announced that some walk-in ticket windows are hearing aid compatible; ticket sellers’ faces are fully visible for the benefit of lipreaders at all walk-in ticket windows; all seats, even the worst in the house, have clear sightlines to the captioning boards—no more neck craning! 
 

**The first of two Public Access Video Phones (PAVs) is up and running and the Minneapolis-St. Paul (MSP) airport in the Humphrey Terminal on Level 1 outside the security area at the far end of baggage claim. The next PAV will be installed before the end of the year at a central location in The Mall within Lindberg Terminal. Metro Airport Commission’s budget for 2010 includes the purchase of 14 more PAVs to replace existing outdated TTY payphones at both terminals. Also, the expanded visual paging system has been under construction and is expected to be completed and launched in January 2010. Once this happens, visual paging will be visible on all CNN television monitors and JCDecaux digital monitors, as well as the common area flight information display monitors (one per bank) throughout the airport. In cases of emergency, the visual paging system will switch to full-screen alerts. MSP Airport management recently participated in a demonstration of ClickAndGo Wayfinding Maps technology providing accessible navigation information to Blind and DeafBlind travelers and consumers. The technology is currently being implemented and piloted at the University of Minnesota. 
 

**All Minnesota state websites to be accessible by 2011. 
 

**Visual history project planning is underway by the Minnesota Commission of Deaf and Hard of Hearing in celebration of its 25^th anniversary. 
 

**Members of the deafblind community have struggled to gain equal access to transit and other forms of transportation in their communities. Thanks to the Minnesota DeafBlind Association with support from MCDHH, officials are listening at long last!

MODEL COMMUNITIES PROJECT: MINI-GRANT COMPETITION

Do you or someone you know have a passion for seeing people with disabilities included in your community? The Model Communities project, funded by the Wisconsin Medicaid Infrastructure Grant through the Department of Health Services is looking for people with innovative ideas on how to make their community more welcoming and inclusive of all people, including people with disabilities. The goal of the Model Communities project is to discover promising approaches to include people with disabilities more fully and naturally in school, work, and community activities. When all people in the community are included, relationships are built that lead to a better quality of life. Each mini-grant will be accompanied by a stipend of up to $1000. These funds can be used to carry out the activities of your project. All funds must be spent by December 31, 2010. A minimum of ten awards will be made. For details and application instructions, please contact Jennifer Neugart, Department of Health Services/Office of Independence and Employment, 608-266-8778; Jennifer.neugart@wisconsin.gov.  #497

LEGISLATIVE NEWS – STATE AND FEDERAL

**Interpreter Licensure Update (SB 389): Work continues. A public hearing is expected to be scheduled soon. #497 
 

**AARP has agreed to support the federal Hearing Aid Assistance Tax Credit which would provide a $500 per-ear income tax credit for eligible hearing aid purchasers. #497

ARTICLES & PUBLICATIONS OF INTEREST

http://www.nidcd.nih.gov/news/releases/09/12_11_09 Gene discovered in childhood language disorder provides insight into reading disorders 
 

http://www.tampabay.com/news/humaninterest/from-a-clearwater-garage-a-signing-santa-takes-wishes-from-the-deaf/1058660 Signing Santa 
 

http://www.lansingstatejournal.com/article/20091212/NEWS01/912120318 Michigan State University takes no action on deaf program 
 

http://www.azstarnet.com/allheadlines/321694 Arizona School for the Deaf and Blind lays off 22 staff to cut budget 
 

http://www.nj.com/gloucester-county/towns/index.ssf/2010/01/harrison_residents_dvd_series.html DVD series offers sign language instruction for young children (1/01) 
 

http://www.miamiherald.com/news/miami-dade/story/1393628.html Deaf teacher inspires her students 
 

http://www.stltoday.com/stltoday/news/stories.nsf/education/story/D345A6599513E12F8625769500145B1F?OpenDocument More Missouri students are learning sign language at school 
 

http://www.kansas.com/news/story/1114510.html Audiologist creates program for families of children who cannot hear

http://www.thestar.com/sports/gthl/article/742979--sound-no-barrier-to-young-players Sound no barrier for two brothers playing hockey 
 

http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/local/deaf-linguistics-professor-a-trailblazer-at-u-of-m-80327747.html Linguistics professor who cannot hear studies foreign sign languages 
 

http://www.nad.org/blogs/bobbie-bethscoggins/nad-action-2009-review-and-onwards-2010 News from NAD 
 

http://www.courier-journal.com/article/20091223/NEWS01/912240301/1008/NEWS01/U%2Bof%2BL%2Bhopes%2Bto%2Blessen%2Bcritical%2Bneed%2Bfor%2Binterpreters%2Bfor%2Bdeaf University of Louisville works to decrease interpreter shortage 
 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_qDzvP3CASE Rare video on YouTube: Closed Captioned History 
 

http://us1.campaign-archive.com/?u=c63235405ddb20a55ad225edc&id=c02d952190&e=8c7c781494 Healthy Hearing newsletter distributed 1/12/2010 
 

http://newsok.com/decline-in-braille-use-threatens-literacy/article/3430908 Decline in Braille use threatens literacy 
 

http://us1.campaign-archive.com/?u=211c913a75ed166d7e011c936&id=0100b154f3&e=66003b0ea2 Hearing Journal – January 2010 
 

http://www.islandpacket.com/lowcountrylife/story/1097000.html Private non-profit pre-school uses auditory/oral approach 
 

http://cjonline.com/news/local/2010-01-12/board_approves_school_of_deaf_reorganization Kansas Board of Education approves re-organization plan for state school for deaf and blind 
 

http://www.deafweekly.com/ Deaf Weekly – January 14, 2010

SUPPORT FOR INDIVIDUALS/PARENTS/FAMILIES—NEW ANNOUNCEMENTS

**Wisconsin Sound Beginnings  (WSB)has hired Connie Stevens as the state’s new Guide By Your Side Follow-Through (GBYS FT) Coordinator. Connie will work with providers and families to address the issue of lost to follow-up. Her efforts will focus on families whose babies are referred for further hearing screening and possibly diagnostic testing, after the initial in-hospital newborn hearing screening. Connie is a WSB Birth to Three Consultant, founding board member of Wisconsin Families for Hands and Voices, former Parent Educator for Shore to Shore, and current GBYS. Contact Connie at 608-266-0917; connie.stevens@dhs.wisconsin.gov. #497 
 

**Marathon County Victim Witness Crime Response Program: Being the victim of a crime can be a devastating experience. Victims are often left confused and fearful, not knowing where to turn for help. Staff in the Marathon County Victim Witness Crime Response Program are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, to offer emotional support, information on victims’ rights, information regarding the status of the criminal investigation and referrals to community services. If you are a victim or witness of a crime and need assistance, please contact Jayne Wood, 715-261-7825 or through law enforcement. Interpreters are available if needed. (Editors note: For other Wisconsin Counties, see the Office of Crime Victim Services website at http://www.doj.state.wi.us/cvs/referrals/county.asp?type=. Click on your county for links to services available.) #497

LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES—NEW ANNOUNCEMENTS

**Professional development for ASL Interpreters: University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire Continuing Education/UW-Extension is offering one and two-day programs designed for all hearing, working sign language interpreters, those who wish to earn RID National Interpreter Certification, ASL interpreters in mental health, medical, legal/social service, and K-12 settings, and interpreters working in emotionally-charged or stressful settings. Programs currently scheduled: March 20, 2010 – ASL/English: Interpreter Skill Development taught by Patty Gordon; May 1, 2010 – ASL Interpreting…and More: How to Interpret the Paperwork, Navigate the Process, and Find Support taught by Julie O’Brien and Kristin Scheibe; June 17-18, 2010 – In the NIC of Time! Preparing for the NIC Interview Exam taught by David Evans; June 19-20, 2010 – It Requires More than Skill! Preparing for the NIC Performance Exam taught by David Evans; October 14, 2010 – Mental Health Interpreting: A Holistic Model taught by Arlyn Anderson; October 15, 2010 – Peer Support and Consultation for Interpreters Working in Highly Charged Settings taught by Arlyn Anderson. RID CEUs are available for all programs. To register and for complete program descriptions, class locations, course objectives, instructor biographies, and course fees, please visit http://www.uwec.edu/ce/education/?????/index.htm or call 715-836-3636 or toll-free 866-893-2423. #497 
 

**NIC Prep Courses all available online. Go to www.terpsavvy.com for details and course information. #497 
 

**Center for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing ASL classes and Communicating with Kids in Sign classes begin in January. Get more information or register by calling 414-604-2200 or visit www.cdhh.org. #497

JOB OPPORTUNITIES—NEW ANNOUNCEMENTS

Be sure to visit your county Job Center for job opportunities. Many Job Centers offer free workshops to assist job seekers. To find the Job Center nearest you, go to http://www.wisconsinjobcenter.org/directory/. Information for workers is available at http://www.dwd.state.wi.us/. A listing of Job Fairs is posted at http://www.wisconsinjobcenter.org/jobfairs/.  Disability Navigators are available at all Job Centers to assist job seekers with disabilities.  A Disability Navigator may cover several Job Centers in a geographic area. Contact a Job Center in your area to find who the Disability Navigator is for that Center and how to contact and/or set up an appointment. 
 

**Various Employment Listings: http://www.deafdigest.com, check both Blue and Gold Editions. Published weekly. 
 

**HireSignLanguage (http://www.hiresl.com) is the latest job board site operated by ASL MEDIA, LLC (http://www.aslmedia.com). HireSignLanguage is the most flexible job board for both job seekers and employers. It boasts more features than any other deaf-related job board with tools to make job searching increasingly more efficient. 
 

**National Association of the Deaf (NAD) calls for candidates for a visionary Chief Executive Officer (CEO). The NAD CEO Search Committee has developed a CEO profile and position announcement available at http://www.nad.org/sites/all/modules/civicrm/extern/url.php?u=235&qid=496671. The NAD encourages community participation in the CEO search effort. Names of prospective candidates can be submitted to Search Committee Chair Kirsten Poston at csc@nad.org. Interested persons should review the CEO profile and position announcement for instructions on submission of applicant materials no later than Monday, March 1, 2010. #497 
 

**Deaf Mentors needed for following areas: Eau Claire, Green Bay, Manitowoc, Rhinelander, Lac Du Flambeau, and Wausau. Must have own transportation, be able to communicate with hearing adults who know very little sign language, and be able to interact with young deaf children. This job pays $16.345 per hour and mentors are reimbursed for their mileage. Deaf Mentors are assigned to families who live in their area. Contact Bonnie Eldred, deafmentor@wesp-dhh.wi.gov; 262-728-7104 TTY; 262-725-0252 VP to request job description, application materials, or to ask questions about the position. Deadline to submit an application is January 15, 2010. Qualified applicants will be required to interview February 2-6, 2010. #497 
 

**Clinical Instructor of American Sign Language: University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. Minimum requirements of this position are a Master’s degree in a related field of study, at least 3 years ASL teaching experience at the secondary/post secondary level, American Sign Language Teacher Association Certification, native or near-native competency in American Sign Language, knowledge of American Sign Language linguistics, Deaf history and Deaf culture. This is a 12-month probationary appointment. Salary is commensurate with experience. To apply, visit www.jobs.uwm.edu/applicants/Central?quickFind=51121. A completed application will include letter of application, vita/resume, transcripts, a list of three references. Additionally, submit name and email of individual who has supervised you and can evaluate your teaching. Review of applications will begin January 30, 2010 and continue until position is filled. Position start date is August 1, 2010. #497 
 

**Captionist (C-print or CART) needed for CESA #1 in Brookfield, WI. Go to http://www.cesa1.k12.wi.us/postings.cfm for complete information. Position was posted December 18, 2009 and will remain open until filled. #497 
 

**Summer Staff: Wisconsin Lion’s Camp, Rosholt, WI. Positions available for male and female counselors, program specialists (swimming, boating, crafts, nature, music & outdoor living, challenge course), healthcare staff (RN’s, LPN’s, graduate nurses and nursing assistants) and other support staff. Anyone 18 years of age or older and interested in a summer experience may apply. Staff and camp applications are available online at www.wisconsinlionscamp.com.  #497 
 

**Web Developer (Sioux Falls, SD) for CSD. Job announcement available at http://www.c-s-d.org/default.aspx?pageid=29&jobid=322. Position is open until filled. #497

CALENDAR: EVENTS/SAVE THE DATES/WORKSHOPS

**Overture Center for the Arts, Madison, WI.  Sign Language interpreted performances at http://www.overturecenter.com/accessibility.htm.   
 

**Milwaukee Repertory Theatre Interpreted Performances: http://www.milwaukeerep.com/tickets/calendar.asp.   
 

**Fox Cities Performing Arts Center Interpreted Shows: www.foxcitiespac.com. 
 

**University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire Forum & Artists Series: http://www.uwec.edu/activities/forum/index.htm; http://www.uwec.edu/activities/artists/index.htm. All Forum events will be signed for the deaf and hard of hearing. Artist series events may/may not be interpreted depending on the performance. Assisted listening devices and large print programs are also available upon request. For information about these or other accommodations for special needs, please call 715-836-4833. 
 

** Commonweal Theatre, Lanesboro, MN Interpreted Performances: www.CommonwealTheatre.org. Patrons in need of interpreter services will receive a 50% discount on all tickets courtesy of the Commonweal and VSA arts of Minnesota. 
 

**Listing of Minnesota performances presented in ASL or Captioning available at www.vsaartsmn.org/theater.html, www.accesspress.org, www.mrid.org, and www.TCDeaf.com.  #493 
 

**January 17, February 21, March 14, 2010: Water Tower View Open House, 1:00 – 3:00 p.m., 3983 South Prairie Hill Lane, Greenfield, WI 53228. Refreshments will be served. Water Tower View apartments are designed with technology and programs that remove communication barriers. #497 
 

**January 25 – April 28. 2010: “Advanced Skills – Preparation for WITA and EIPA Online course plus a one day seminar on March 20, 2010. 3.0 RID CEUs, 2 technical college credits. Registration deadline is January 22. Course number 10-533-129-IN; Class #66666; http://elearn.ntc.edu (click on “Course Catalog to search for this course). For additional information contact Beth Kind, 715-803-1082, bkind@ntc.edu. #496 
 

**January 23, 2010: Cancer benefit for Jill Loing family in Muskego. See flyer at http://www.wisdeaf.org/wp/2009/12/16/cancer-benefit-for-jill/. #497  
 

**February 1 – March 26, 2010: “Introduction to Interpreting for the Deaf” – A career exploration class with online delivery. 1 credit. Course number 10-533-141; Class number 66667; Registration deadline January 25; http://elearn.ntc.edu (click on “Course Catalog to search for this course). For more information contact Beth Kind, 715-803-1082, bkind@ntc.edu. #496 
 

**February 6, 2010: Co-Ed Volleyball Tournament hosted by Fox River Valley Association of the Deaf at Checkered Flag Sports Bar & Grill, N225 Stoney Brook Road, Appleton, WI 54915. Sign up at 3:00 p.m. Fee is $10/person. See flyer on WAD website at http://www.wi-deaf.org/web2/.  #497 
 

**February 13, 2010: La Crosse Social Deaf Club, All you can eat Chinese dinner at Super Buffet, 206 Copeland Avenue, La Crosse, WI; 4:30 p.m. Adults (age 12 and over) are $9.97 plus tip. #497 
 

**February 15, 2009: Deadline for Wisconsin Labor History Society High School Essay Contest for 2009 – 2010 School Year submissions. For complete details and requirements, please see http://wisconsinlaborhistory.org/Essay%20Flyer%2009-10%20Final.pdf.  #495 
 

**February 18 & 19, 2010: 7^th Annual Wisconsin Transition Conference, Kalahari Resort, Wisconsin Dells, WI. Conference information and registration available at www.wsti.org. Morning and afternoon preconference sessions will be offered on Wednesday, February 17. #489 Registration is now OPEN! Conference Early Bird rate of $250 available until December 23, 2009 and pre-conference Early Bird Rate of $75. One graduate credit is available through Viterbo University for full-time attendance at the conference at a cost of $250. You can register for the graduate credit at the conference. Full conference brochure will be available soon. #495 
 

**February 20, 2010: WisASLTA workshop, awards banquet, and entertainment at Lake Lawn Resort in Delavan. Go to www.wisaslta.org for details and registration form to be mailed by February 5. #497 
 

**February 25, 2010: “A Conversation with Friends” workshop designed for families with children who are deaf or hard of hearing held at Secondary Technical Center’s Restaurant, 802 E Central Entrance, Duluth, MN. Supper served from 5:30 – 6:30 p.m.; Panel presentation 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. This workshop features a panel discussion with three individuals who have various degrees of hearing loss. This is an opportunity to hear from individuals with hearing loss and learn accommodation choices, communication and technology options for helping your child. Register by February 19 for food planning with Curt Leitz, 866-750-4421 or curtl@lifetrackresources.org or with Sue Hite-Kirk at dhhs.duluth@state.mn.us. Please indicate total family members attending, number and age of children participating in activities, any special accommodations/dietary requests. Sign language interpreters and captioning services provided. Sponsored by Minnesota DHHS and Lifetrack Resources~Minnesota Hands & Voices. #497 
 

**March 8 – May 14, 2010: “Introduction to the Deaf Community” via the Internet. Two technical college credits and/or 3.0 RID CEUs available; Course number 10-533-142-IN; Class number 66665. http://elearn.ntc.edu (click on “Course Catalog to search for this course). For more information contact Beth Kind, 715-803-1082, bkind@ntc.edu. #496  
 

**March 11 – 12, 2010: Save the Date for WESP-DHH Annual Professional Conference at the Concourse Hotel, Madison, WI. This conference is specifically designed for professional (teachers of the deaf/hard of hearing, special education teachers, Birth to 3 providers, educational interpreters, speech-language therapists, audiologists). Online registration coming soon. Save the Date Flyer posted at http://www.wesp-dhh.wi.gov/events/outreach/PC_Flyer_Save_the_Date_2010.pdf. #496 
 

**March 13, 2010: La Crosse Social Deaf Club St. Patrick’s Potluck beginning at 4:30 p.m. Bring your own beverage and games. La Crosse Community Policing Center, 713 St. James Street, La Crosse, WI 54603. #497 
 

**March 30, 2010: Wisconsin School for the Deaf (WSD) and Midstate Independent Living Consultants (MILC) present “The Sign Song Dancers” at 1:30 p.m., Ben Franklin Junior High School, 2000 Polk Street, Stevens Point, WI. The Sign Song Dancers are a performance group that travels to different public schools throughout the state of Wisconsin, signing and dancing to music. The performers are Deaf and Hard of Hearing High School students at the WI School for the Deaf in Delevan, WI.  They come from all over the state and are a diverse group. It is an interactive performance that lasts approximately 45 minutes and is great exposure to Deaf Culture.  You will have the opportunity to see and interact with successful deaf students. This event is FREE to the public. #497 
 

**April 15, 2010: CDHH Annual Gardens Luncheon, 11:00 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. at The Astor Hotel, 924, E Juneau, Milwaukee, WI. Guest speaker this year will be Arlena Schott, host of the TV program “Garden Wise.” 
 

**April 15 – 18, 2010: TERPexpo, Minneapolis, MN. Details at www.terpexpo.com. #494 
 

**April 30, 2010: Professional development opportunity, “Listening for Life: Techniques and Strategies for Optimal Listening and Spoken Language Outcomes” sponsored by CDHH. Presented by Warren Estabrooks, President and CEO of WE Listen International, Inc. Location TBD . Watch this space for updates or go to www.cdhh.org.  #497 
 

**April 30 – May 2, 2010: ASL Weekend at Wisconsin Lions Camp, Rosholt, WI. Save the Date flyer: http://www.wisdeaf.org/wp/2009/11/24/asl-weekend-save-the-date/. ASL Weekend is seeking presenters. Please see flyer and contact Katy Schmidt at katymschmidt@gmail.com. A “Call for Presenters” flyer is available on the WAD website. Volunteers are also needed to help. Contact Scott Baughman for more information at sbaugh@charter.net. ASL Weekend Retreat is open to any interpreters/ASL signers, ASL students, parents of Deaf child, Deaf, and CODA’s. No voice is allowed during this event and is an ASL zone. #496 
 

**May 16, 2010: Walk4Hearing in Milwaukee. Watch this space and/or go to www.hlaa-wi.org for more information as it becomes available. Sponsors, volunteers, and WALKERS are needed! #493  
 

**June 17 – 20, 2010: HLAA National Convention at Hilton Milwaukee City Center and Midwest Airlines Center, Milwaukee, WI (Yes—that’s correct—Wisconsin!). Convention details available at http://www.hearingloss.org/convention/index.asp. #494 
 

**June 20-23, 2010: National ADA Symposium, Hyatt Regency, Denver, CO. As session details, activities, and registration options develop, they will be posted at www.adasymposium.org. Developments and updates will also be posted on Twitter, www.twitter.com/ADASymposium.  #492 
 

**July 6-10, 2010: 50^th Biennial NAD Conference-Philadelphia at the Philadelphia Marriott. Check out the schedule, find out who is going, learn about local attractions, and much more at http://www.nad.org/philly.  
 

**July 25 – 27, 2010: National Summit on Disability Policy 2010: ADA 1990 – 2010 Retrospective and Future Policy Directions, Renaissance Hotel, Washington, DC. For details, go to http://www.neweditions.net/ncd2010/index.html. #494

CHECK OUT THESE SITES FOR MEETINGS, EVENTS, SOCIAL ACTIVITIES, CLASSES, ISSUES AND INFORMATION, ADVOCACY, AND MUCH MORE:

• American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA): www.asha.org/default.htm; ASHA is the professional, scientific, and credentialing association for more than 127,000 members and affiliates who are audiologists, speech-language pathologists, and speech, language, and hearing scientists. Click on “The Public” for resources.
• Association of Late Deafened-Adults Inc. (ALDA): http://www.alda.org/index.php; ALDA’s mission is to support the empowerment of late-deafened people. ALDA-Southern Wisconsin meets in Janesville. Chapter contact is Jessica Congdon, mjcongdon@sbcglobal.net; Blackberry email jcongdor@sprint.blackberry.net; 1-866-207-4503 Home VP.
• Audiology Online: www.audiologyonline.com; Source of news, information, training and education offerings (live E-seminars, recorded courses, text-based courses) from many manufacturers of hearing aids, cochlear implants, batteries, etc. Many courses are free.
• Better Hearing Institute (BHI): www.betterhearing.org; The Better Hearing Institute is a not-for-profit corporation that educates the public about the neglected problem of hearing loss and what can be done about it. New to their site (7/09) is a seven topic mega-blog that offers the latest hearing health news and provides a forum for people to discuss hearing concerns and personal stories and challenges.
• Center for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (CDHH): www.cdhh.org; Provides comprehensive programs and services that enhance communication and promote independence. Located in West Allis, WI. Also home of UniversaLink.
• DAWN (Disability Advocates Wisconsin Network): www.dawninfo.org; Provides current information on state disability issues, state budget, legislative activity, national disability issue links. Hearing aid legislation is currently included in their “Take Action” box.
• Deaf and Hard of Hearing Alliance (DHHA): www.dhha-wi.org; Provides opportunities for leadership and personal growth within the Signing (Deaf) community while respecting culture, language, and a visual environment.
• Deaf Bilingual Coalition (DBC): www.deafbilingualcoalition.com; Promotes the basic human right of all deaf infants and young children to have access to language and cognitive development through American Sign Language (ASL). National organization website at www.dbcusa.org.
• Deaf Empowerment (DE): www.deafe.org; Provides services among Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals in the Fox River Valley area of Wisconsin.
• Disability Law Lowdown website: www.ASL.DisabilityLawLowdown.com. ASL podcasts that allows subscribers to see native Deaf speakers signing the show’s content. For the fastest viewing the ASL podcasts are available on YouTube at www.youtube.com/disabilitylawlowdown. Disability Law Lowdown is provided by the Disability Business Technical Assistance Center (DBTAC).
• Hearing Healthcare: www.healthyhearing.com for helpful information on hearing aids, hearing loss, cochlear implants, tinnitus, and more.
• Hearing Loss Association of America (HLAA): www.hlaa-wi.org is the site for information on state chapter meetings and events; www.hearingloss.org is the national site. HLAA-WI publishes a quarterly newsletter that is sent out electronically. You do not have to be a member of HLAA to receive the newsletter. However, we need your name and e-mail address. If you wish to receive our publication, please contact Brenda at bjoyhlaa@charter.net.
• Let Them Hear Foundation (LTHF): www.letthemhear.org provides hearing services for underprivileged American youth; education, insurance advocacy for cochlear implants, and research.
• National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD): www.nidcd.nih.gov/index.asp; Provides research information, health information & topics, news & events including information on communication methods and devices for people with hearing loss.
• PACER Center: www.pacer.org; The mission of PACER Center is to expand opportunities and enhance the quality of life of children and young adults with disabilities and their families, based on the concept of parents helping parents.
• Postsecondary Education Programs Network (PEPNet): www.pepnet.org is a national network of regional centers providing resources, information, in-service training, and expertise to enhance educational opportunities for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing and their families.
• Stout Vocational Rehabilitation Institute (SVRI): www.svri.uwstout.edu/; Provides solutions to positively impact the future of persons with disabilities and others in the community through education, research, and services.  Archived newsletters and publications from SVRI may be available on their website.
• U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA): www.fda.gov/default.htm; Provides consumer health information. Enter topic in “Search” engine.
• Video Relay Services Consumer Association (VRSCA): www.vrsca.org; A communication forum for Deaf, Hard of Hearing and hearing persons who use Video Relay Services (VRS).
• Wisconsin American Sign Language Teachers Association (Wisconsin ASLTA): www.wiaslta.org is the site for information for the Wisconsin Chapter of the American Sign Language Teachers Association. ASLTA is the only national organization dedicated to the improvement and expansion of the teaching of ASL and Deaf Studies at all levels of instruction.
• Wisconsin Association of the Deaf (WAD): www.wisdeaf.org is the site for information on state chapter meetings and events; www.nad.org is the national site. Click on “Read the WADNet Post” for information, community events, interpreted worship schedules, captioned movies, job openings, and more.
• Wisconsin Educational Services Program Deaf and Hard of Hearing Outreach (WESPDHH Outreach): www.wesp-dhh.wi.gov/ provides a variety of programs and services to students who are deaf, hard of hearing, and deafblind, their families and the educational teams and school districts that serve them, regardless of the student's educational placement or communication modality. A WESPDHH Outreach newsletter is available on their website.
• Wisconsin Kids of Deaf Adults (WIKODA): www.wikoda.blogspot.com Support and activities for children who have Deaf parents.
• Wisconsin Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (WisRID): www.wisrid.org is the site for state information and events; www.rid.org is the national site.

REMINDERS: SUPPORT FOR INDIVIDUALS/PARENTS/FAMILIES

**Girl Scouts for girls with special needs: Girl Scouts of the Northwestern Great Lakes, Inc. has a unique way to reach girls in the Chippewa Valley. Girl Scouts offers a troop designed especially for girls with special needs. This troop gives girls the opportunity to remove barriers that may be keeping them from becoming a Girl Scout. Opportunities offered to girls with a variety of specials needs including wheelchair-bound, non-verbal, autism, Aspergers, Down syndrome, ADD, ADHD, and more. This program is open to all girls, targeting grades 3-7. The cost for the program is $15. This cost includes annual membership dues and program registration fees. Financial assistance is available to any girl that would otherwise be unable to participate. For additional information or questions, contact Kelsie Oswald or Rebecca Rohrman at the Girl Scout Service Center, 715-835-5331 or 888-432-9823 ext 5518 or email koswald@gsnwgl.org or rrohrman@gsnwgl.org.  #496 
 

**Help with research on Hearing Aid Compatibility of cell phones: The Wireless Rehabilitation Engineering Research Center (RERC) has launched its 2009 Hearing Aid Compatibility (HAC) Survey on the compatibility of cell phones with hearing aids and cochlear implants. You can complete the survey online at http://www.wirelessrerc.org/news/take-the-2009-hac-survey.html. This is the 4th year in a row this survey has been conducted. Each year the Wireless RERC publishes a report on hearing aid compatibility. You can view the latest report at http://www.wirelessrerc.org/publications/HAC-Report_2008_2009-06-10.docx/view.   #494 
 

**Midwest Alliance Outreach announces Fall 2009 events and opportunities for high school & college level students and alumni with disabilities in Iowa, Illinois, and Wisconsin. For high school students and first year college students – become a Midwest Alliance Mentee (stipends available); For college students – become a Midwest Alliance Mentor (stipends available); Many Fall events scheduled. Details found at www.stemmidwest.org.  #494 
 

**H1N1 flu information presented in ASL: http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/deaf.htm.  #494 
 

**Cochlear Implant Information Website: Tina Childress, M.A., CCC-A has developed a website as part of her work at the Illinois School for the Deaf. It is a wonderful resource site for professionals working with students with cochlear implants and for anyone who has a cochlear implant or is considering one. The website has a section that compares the resources and services offered by each of the three cochlear implant companies and a section containing pictures of the different cochlear implant processors available from each company. User guides are available. To access this new website, go to http://www.morgan.k12.il.us/isd/outreach_services_CISupport.html.  #493 
 

**National Collaborative on Workforce and Disability for Youth Updates Website updated in July at www.ncwd-youth.info. #492 
 

**The Let Them Hear Foundation (LTHF) announced creation of a new Special Education Resource website for parents of children with disabilities and for professional who would like to learn about the special education services that are available to children with disabilities (http://www.letthemhear.org/articles-main.php).  
 

**Hand-N-Hand of Northeastern Wisconsin, Inc. is a non-profit organization that provides support and facilitates resources for families with children experiencing hearing loss. Playgroups and parent/community education classes are offered on Monday nights from 6:00 – 7:30 p.m., 411 St John Street, Green Bay. Located at the corner of St John St & Jefferson St inside St John’s School. If you have questions about HNH please contact Jenny Geiken at 920-434-6226 or jlgeiken@earthlink.net. Information may also be available at www.hnhnew.org/.  
 

**Touching Families – A Support Group for Parents of Children who are deaf or hard of hearing meets in Eau Claire. For more information please contact Carol Thompson, simplycarol@charter.net; 715-838-9158.

REMINDERS: LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES

**The Youth in Partnership with Parents for Empowerment (YiPPE) parent/youth leadership training is the only known program in the country to simultaneously train youth with disabilities in transition ages 15-20 along with their parents. Up to 25 youth and their parents attend 5 weekend sessions throughout a school year to  learn effective self-advocacy, communication strategies, and resources and options for students in transition. For the 2010-2011 school year YiPPE is seeking proposals from school districts, communities, parent groups or agencies that would like to host a Youth in Partnership with Parents for Empowerment training. A limited number of YiPPE trainings will be provided. If you have a proposal and/or would like more information about YiPPE, please contact Martha DeYoung, 608-742-8814 Ext 255 or email deyoungm@cesa5.k12.wi.us. YiPPE proposals need to be submitted by March 17, 2011. #496 
 

**The University of Tennessee Rehabilitation Counseling Program is seeking Master’s students to apply for the Deafness Concentration. Funding is available in the form of RSA Traineeships. Students in the Deafness Concentration will pursue 48-hours of coursework in rehabilitation counseling. Other requirements must be fulfilled. Application deadline is April 15, 2010. Admission decisions are made by May 15. For more information contact Patrick L Dunn, Ph.D., Associate Professor, Counselor Education, The University of Tennessee-Knoxville, A523 Bailey Education Complex, Knoxville, TN 37996; Phone 865-974-8013; Email pdunn4@utk.edu.  #496 
 

**Signs of Development: Home of WWWorkshops for interpreters at http://www.signs-of-development.org/.  New: Signs announces Distance Mentoring! For more information, send an email to mentor@signs-of-development.org. Put “Mentor wanted” in the subject line. 
 

**TERPexpo (Denver, New Orleans, Irvine, CA, Providence, RI, Minneapolis, Norfolk): Peter Cook will be presenting “Narrative Development of Personal Storytelling in ASL.” Other topics include: “Interpreting and SSP’ing with DeafBlind Consumers,” “The Caller Says What? VRS Interpreting,” and “Giving Regards to Broadway.” CEUs available. All information at www.terpexpo.com.  #494 
 

**Fireside Training Series: Ongoing trainings sponsored by Dynamic Communications, Inc and ASL Interpreting Services in Minnesota are designed to help newly certified interpreters or soon to be certified interpreters who want to learn more on a particular area of interpreting. Each month will focus on a different series topic. For more information, go to http://www.aslis.com/home.html and click on “Community Calendar.” Classes are held at Dynamic Communications/ASL Interpreting Services Office, 6517 Hunter Rd, Corcoran, MN 55340. Parking is free. This is a home office in a residential area.  
 

**The Transition Coalition at University of Kansas’ Special Education Department offers a series of free on-line transition trainings that you can access at any time. Teachers, family members, service providers all are welcome to access these resources. You will need to register and get a password plus to a “pre-test” before starting any module (this is a research project and they have to measure pre/post efficacy). The site is www.transitioncoalition.org.

REMINDERS: JOB OPPORTUNITIES

**B-6 Services Coordinator, Western Region of Wisconsin: Seeking a motivated and collaborative self-starter to assist in the implementation of a Pilot Project in the Western Region of Wisconsin (as set forth by the Department of Health Services), with the goal of improving access to and provision of services for children who are deaf, hard of hearing and deafblind and their families. This part-time position will be based out of the CESA 10 office in Chippewa Falls, and will be responsible for service coordination and the establishment of a team of service providers for the entire Western Region. Knowledge and/or experience with DHH is preferred. Interested applicants can send letter of introduction, current resume/qualifications and 3 references to: Human Resources, CESA 10, 725 W Park Avenue, Chippewa Falls, WI 54729 no later than December 31, 2009. Interviews will be held on Thursday, January 12, 2010 at CESA 10. For more information about the goals and activities set forth for this exciting and innovative pilot and/or to obtain a complete job description, please contact Sherry Kimball, sherry.kimball@wesp-dhh.wi.gov or 608-266-7032. #496 
 

**On-site Interpreter, Goodwill Great Lakes. This is a permanent 20 hour position covering 3 days per week. Illinois license level Intermediate or higher required. Work with over 50 Deaf and Hard of Hearing adults. If interested in this position, apply online at www.goodwillsew.com. (Click on “Working at Goodwill.” This position is Requisition #09-0518 posted 11-18-2009.) #496 
 

**Educational Interpreter, full-time for 2009 – 2010 school year, Lancaster Community School District. This position will assist deaf students in regular education and special education classroom environments, will interpret for and assist students with hearing impairments and implement instructional information for optimum learning experiences. Fluency in ASL skills is a requirement. A Department of Public Instruction 884 Educational Interpreter license is required. Employment application available at www.lancastersd.k12.wi.us. You can also contact Mary R Green, PhD, Director of Instruction and Special Education, 925 West Maple Street, Lancaster, WI 53813; 608-723-2175 Ext 107. #496 (Editor’s note: deadline to apply not posted.) 
 

**Program Coordinator – Sports & Rec, Duluth, MN: Courage Center Duluth is happy to announce the expansion of services in the Twin Ports. Candidates interested in applying for the new program coordinator position should follow the link to the position description on the Courage Center website. http://www.couragecenter.org/ContentPages/coordinator_sportsandrec_duluth.aspx. (Editor’s note: Advertising for the position began on October 9; no deadline to apply given in ad.) #494 
 

**Program Director-Instructor – Goshen College, IL: Growing American Sign Language and Interpreting major/minor at Goshen College seeks full-time Program Director/Instructor. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. Faculty responsibilities begin Fall semester of the 2010-2011 academic year. PhD preferred, Master’s degree required in linguistics, education, sign language interpreting or a related field; ASLTA certification or working toward certification. For further information and to apply, please see the position announcement at www.goshen.edu/employment.  #493 
 

**CSDVRS is hiring! Find out about available job opportunities with CSDVRS at http://csdvrs.com/about/jobs.aspx for the job listings. 
 

**Various positions available with Greater Los Angeles Agency on Deafness, Inc. (GLAD). All available positions are regular, full-time, non-exempt, full fringe benefits unless otherwise noted. All positions open until filled. For a listing of available positions, requirements, and application instructions go to www.gladinc.org. Click on “Job Opportunities” at the top of the homepage. 
 

**Free database of job candidates with disabilities seeking employment now available. For information go to http://www.dol.gov/opa/media/press/odep/ODEP20090290.htm.  #488

For more information on ODHH:

http://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/sensory/

To request inservice training, contact an ODHH Regional Coordinator:

http://dhs.wisconsin.gov/sensory/Staff/stafflisting.htm

To apply for TAP:

http://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/sensory/TAP/TAP.htm

Send submissions of announcements, articles, and other information to:

Carolyn Small

Carolyn.Small@wisconsin.gov

Fax: 715-836-2535; Write: CAROLYN SMALL at top of cover sheet or announcement

After being gone for a few weeks, it was interesting to see what's been going on up here in Wisconsin.  Here are a few things I've learned since returning.

1.  Three of the people that we know that own businesses in Wisconsin are now placing their primary residences up for sale and relocating their businesses to Michigan and Florida.  While that may not be news to most of you, consider this.

The number one reason that they are closing up shop is due to the amount of taxes they are now paying to the state of Wisconsin.  This includes payroll taxes.  When it is all said and done, Waukesha County will lose 3 businesses (privately owned) that do a collective total of over 5 million in sales per year.  They will also be leaving behind the buildings that their businesses were in as well as lowering the number of employed County residents by 18.  It was interesting to see that the majority of those employees are also selling their homes and moving with the respective companies.  And, other than the inconvenience of moving, none of the employees are complaining about getting out of here.  Sad state of affairs for our State.

2.  The so called survey that the Journal Sentinel reported on regarding lowered anticipated numbers of people with hearing loss in the future.

While I do not have access to the complete survey results (it was published in a medical journal that charges for access online), according to the article, the participants were all in Beaver Dam, WI.  Thus, they were all of one ethnicity (white).  The unfortunate thing about the paper publishing this news article without the pertinent facts is that this may impact how hearing loss is looked at in the future and limit some services and programs for those that are D/HOH.  Here's a link to the article: http://www.jsonline.com/features/health/81560207.html

It was 'financed' by the Dept of Aging.  Would be interesting to find out where they got the funds and what their ultimate goals were in having this 'study' done.  Always has amazed me how so called 'scientific' data can be skewed to say what you want it to say.  We all have to keep in mind that Science is just another way of exploring and discovering ways that things work or are integrated into the lives of humans.  Kind of like our current elected officials.  It's all an experiment to see who can make the most or get the biggest benefit out of the deals, bargains and theories. 

3.   And then there's the Haiti Disaster.  While down in Florida, I saw the newsclip of Pat Robertson saying that the Earthquake happened due to the fact (in his opinion) that the Haitians had made a pact with the Devil a couple of thousand of years ago.  Thus (again in his opinion), they had it coming.  As a person that believes but does not actively partipate in the religious world, I found this highly offensive, irresponsible and just plain dumb.  What right does Mr Robertson (I won't even dignify his existence by addressing him as part of the ministerial population) have in going on a television program that is probably 100% subsidized by those that really believe he is the all knowing when it comes to getting into Heaven expressing these kinds of accusations, thoughts and so called devout teachings?  I'm wondering if God has a unique spot for him when his time comes.

As you probably know, there are thousands of Haitians that live down in Florida.  Some of them are U.S. citizens and some are here on visas for varying reasons.  So, we got to experience firsthand how this situation is looked at through their eyes.  It's sad to say the least.  But, on the other hand, there were alot of them that were upset at how aggressive the U.S. was in trying to 'take' over the rescues/recovery.  Of course, with the differing languages, lack of education, communication, and cultures, it was easy to see how things that the U.S. thought to be priorities were not at the top of the Haitian lists.  Haitians do not spend a lot of time analyzing things.  They also have a lifestyle and culture that is not comparable for the most part to ours here in the U.S.  The average lifespan is 44 years of age there. 

They have spent many years living in what we would consider squalor.  But, they also have an immense amount of pride and tend to take care of their own in most instances.  There is a place down near Miami, FL called Little Haiti.  Unfortunately, it has been infested with a heavy gang influence and is not looked upon in a positive light.  In a lot of ways, the U.S. has contributed to the new Haitian way of living once they are on U.S. soil.  Once we start handing out welfare, medical and housing similiar to how we do it with natural born citizens or any other foreign resident in need, they learn through the generations that this way of life actually guarantees them a roof over their head and food on their plate.  With the advent of the Immigration powers that be looking at issuing temporary visas for up to 18 months (for Haitian Nationals) and the culture that promotes as many children as possible, I am wondering how many 'new' U.S. citizens we will have in that 18 month period.  I don't see our government sending the mothers back 'home' and offering to take care of the offspring now that they are legally residents by birth. 

With the additional resources needed not to mention the burdens on our school systems to the communities that have a big influx of 'temporary' residents, the straw will definitely bend more as we stress the camels' back.  Will be interesting to see how this all turns out.  Now, about that offer from Africa that will give the Haitians an entire region of the country to resettle....

Just some thoughts on my part!  Hope you all have a great week!

The State of New Hampshire is looking at covering the cost of Hearing Aids for their State Residents.  In doing a little research on this, I found that there was a feasibility study done by a company up in Minnesota for them on the topic.  I found it interesting to see their take on some of the facts and figures.  For those of you interested, here's the link:  http://www.nh.gov/insurance/legal/documents/impact_sb159.pdf

Here's the press release on the Bill as it stands now.  It is now in the process of going to the House for debate and a vote.  http://www.examiner.com/a-2406274~NH_House_approves_mandating_hearing_aid_coverage.html

On a side note, for those of you interested in finding out if your doctor is getting any money from the major drugmakers for advocation of their medical products, there are now 'reports' on some of the major drug makers sites that list the payments made to physicians by quarter.  For example, if you go to the GlaxoSmithKline website and click on the 'responsibility' link, you can download a pdf file by quarter that lists the doctors by last name and see how much they were paid by GSK.  To get you started, here's the link to an article about it:  http://blogs.wsj.com/health/2009/12/15/which-doctors-are-getting-paid-by-glaxo-lilly-and-merck/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+wsj%2Fhealth%2Ffeed+%28WSJ.com%3A+Health+Blog%29&mod=smallbusiness

With the advent of the Healthcare Reform Bill, the major Pharmaceutical Companies have now addressed the transparency issues by posting via their websites exactly how much they are paying doctors here in the U.S.  Might be useful information to have so that you can question your physician as to why they are now promoting a certain medication.  I was shocked at some of the amounts paid out in our area. 

The Journal Sentinel did an article last year on how much some of the Researchers/Doctors in Madison were getting paid by these companies.  For those of you that missed it, here's the link:  http://www.jsonline.com/features/health/37397284.html

 But, it would have been nice to have seen the local connections.  Another price that we all pay with the resources being diminished for our local news outlets.  The more reporters that they lay off, the less information we will be able to access that affects all of us here in the area. 

Have a great week!

Copyright 2009 Tami Klink

For those of you wondering why the U.S. government is so involved in the Haiti Earthquake mess, this may be a reason. 

www.miamiherald.com/news/breaking-news/story/1446862.html

Wouldn't it be interesting to find that one of the Worlds' poorest Countries with one of the most corrrupt Governments turns a Natural Disaster into a Windfall?  If there really is Gas found, does that mean that Haiti will be required to pay back all of the billions of dollars in forgiven debt? 

Have a great week!

On behalf of the Wisconsin Mentoring Program (WMP) I am pleased to announce that we will again be recruiting mentors to join our exciting program as we work towards our goal of providing mentoring services to recent graduates of Interpreter Education Programs, working WITA verified interpreters and deaf interpreters aspiring to become nationally certified through RID.

Attached within the marketing materials is a description of the program as well as the requirements to be considered. Please share this information with your colleagues and those whom you feel would be a valuable asset to the program and in turn interpreters of the state of Wisconsin. The application and all of the materials are due back no later than March 5, so please help us spread the word. If you have any questions please feel free to contact the Wisconsin Mentoring Program staff.

Amber Mullett
Sign Language Interpreter
Office for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing

1 W. Wilson St. Rm 451
Madison, WI 53703
(608) 261-7823 (Voice)
Amber.Mullett@wisconsin.gov

Wisconsin Mentoring Program

Mentor Application 
 
 

Personal Information 
 

Name: ________________________________________________ Date: _________  
 

      Please check: _____ Hearing _____ Deaf    ____ Hard of Hearing  
 

Street Address: ________________________________________________________  
 

City: ________________________________ State: ______   Zip: _______________     
 

Home phone: _________________________     Work phone: ___________________  

Email: _________________________________   Gender:  Male    Female

Education 
 

Interpreter Training Program attended (if any): _______________________________  
 

Bachelor’s Degree obtained (area of study): __________________________________   
 
 

Credentials (include level, if applicable) 
 

ASLTA ______, EIPA ______, RID or NIC _______, NAD _______, ASLPI ___________  
 
 

Professional Membership (include proof of membership) 
 

RID _____, WisRID ______, NAD ______, ASLTA _____, WAD ______ Other________  
 

Employment History  
 

Please provide employment information for the past five years, with most recent position held first. If more space is needed use an extra sheet of paper.  
 

Employer: ______________________________________________________________ 
 

City: ________________________ State: ______   Phone: _______________________ 
 

Supervisor’s Name: ______________________________ Title: ___________________  
 

Dates Employed: ____ to ____ (m/year) Position Held: _______________________ 
 

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 
 

Employer: ______________________________________________________________ 
 

City: ________________________ State: ______ Phone: _______________________ 
 

Supervisor’s Name: ______________________________ Title: ___________________  
 

Dates Employed: ____ to ____ (m/year) Position Held: _______________________

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 
 

Employer: ______________________________________________________________ 
 

City: ________________________ State: ______   Phone: ______________________ 
 

Supervisor’s Name: ______________________________ Title: ___________________  
 

Dates Employed: ____ to ____ (m/year) Position Held: _______________________ 
 
 

Application Questions

Please answer all of the following questions as completely as possible.  
 

1. Provide some background about how you entered the profession of interpreting; deaf family member, peers, language lover, etc……

2. Where are you currently working and provide some detail about your current role and responsibilities. What are the benefits and rewards of your work? What are some of the challenges/opportunities?

3. Share what drives you as a professional/up-and-coming interpreter?  What is your interpreter philosophy?

4. Describe why you want to be a mentor?  What qualities, skills and other attributes you have would benefit the WMP? 

5. What experience do you currently have as a mentor? 

6. What training have you attended, if any, to further your skills as a mentor?

7. What is your availability for the mentorship program?  Weekly? Once a month? Face to Face contact? Use of Technology – Email, Webcam etc… Or combination of both?

8. Describe how you balance your personal and professional life?  How often do you interact and/or volunteer in the Deaf community?

9. How would you describe yourself as a person?

10. How would your family and friends describe you as a person?

Please read this carefully before signing:

Wisconsin Mentoring Program appreciates your interest in becoming a mentor.  
 

Please initial each of the following: 
 

_______ I agree to follow all mentoring program guidelines and understand that any violation will result in suspension and/or termination of the mentoring relationship. 
 

_______ I understand that Wisconsin Mentoring Program is not obligated to provide a reason for their decision in accepting or rejecting me as a mentor. 
 

_______ I understand that my attendance at all required training is crucial to the program, and I am able to commit my attendance.

_______ I authorize Wisconsin to obtain any needed information regarding my character references through my employer and/or personal references for the purposes of participating in a mentoring program. 

_______ Further, I understand that information about me and my participation in the program will be held in confidential files within the Office for Deaf and Hard of Hearing. 

_______ (optional) I agree to allow Wisconsin Mentoring Program to use any photographic image of me taken while participating in the mentoring program. These images may be used in promotions or other related marketing materials.  
 

I understand I must return this application and the Personal Reference Form, otherwise my application will not be considered. 
 

By signing below, I attest to the truthfulness of all information listed on this application and agree to all the above terms and conditions.  
 

_________________________________________________ ________________

Signature          Date                                                 

Please mail or fax this application and personal references to:

Office for Deaf and Hard of Hearing, ATTN: Wisconsin Mentoring Program

P.O. Box 7851, 1 W. Wilson Street, Room 451

Madison, WI 53707-7851.

Fax:  (608) 264-9899

Applications Due:  March 5, 2010

                        Wisconsin Mentoring Program 
 
 

Personal References 
 

Please list the names, addresses, and phone numbers of three people you would like to use as character references (only people you have known for at least a year). Include at least one deaf person.  Any information Wisconsin Mentoring Program gathers from these references will be held as confidential and not released to you, the applicant.  
 
 

Deaf Person’s Name: _____________________________________________________ 
 

Address: ______________________________________________________________ 
 

City: ________________________    State: ________________   Zip: _________ 
 

Phone: ___________________________ Email: ______________________________ 
 

Relationship: _______________________     How long known: ___________________ 
 
 
 

Name: ________________________________________________________________ 
 

Address: ______________________________________________________________ 
 

City: ________________________    State: ________________   Zip: _________ 
 

Phone: ___________________________ Email: ______________________________ 
 

Relationship: _______________________     How long known: ___________________ 
 
 
 

Name: ________________________________________________________________ 
 

Address: ______________________________________________________________ 
 

City: ________________________    State: ________________   Zip: _________ 
 

Phone: ___________________________ Email: ______________________________ 
 

Relationship: _______________________     How long known: ___________________ 
 

Background and Recruitment

Wisconsin Mentoring Program

Applications Due

Applications are due to WMP Program Staff no later than March 5, 2010

M 

                               Mark Your Calendars  First Mentor Training:

April 23-25, 2010ientation

August 21, 2010

Mentor Refresher Training

December 4, 2010

Mentor/Mentee Closure

MFor More Information

For more information please contact:

Amber Mullett

Amber.Mullett@wisconsin.gov

608-261-7823

Karen Dishno

Karen.Dishno@wisconsin.gov

608-234-4709

Currently, interpreters are encouraged to take the Wisconsin Interpreting and Transliterating Assessment (WITA) to obtain a score of 2:2 or higher which opens minimal opportunities for employment in Wisconsin.  Through the years, an increased expectation requiring national certification by deaf, hard of hearing and hearing consumers has resulted in a readiness to work gap for those WITA verified interpreters.  As a means to decrease this gap, the Wisconsin Mentoring Program (WMP) envisions a community where sign language interpreters aspiring to attain national certification have access to the appropriate mentoring and training to achieve their professional goals with the purpose of expanding the pool of qualified interpreters in Wisconsin.

The Wisconsin Mentoring Program (WMP) will offer 30 hours of mentoring by qualified mentors within a six (6) month period for interpreters working in adult community based settings. The mentors will work with the mentees to create an Individual Action Plan (IAP) including goals and strategies for supporting the growth of the identified areas of need for skill development in alignment with the knowledge/skills needed to take the RID National Interpreter Certification Exam. The mission of the Wisconsin Mentoring Program (WMP) is to empower sign language interpreters in our community to make professional choices that enable them to maximize their potential toward becoming a nationally certified interpreter in Wisconsin.

Seeking Mentors…The Wisconsin Mentoring Program (WMP) is seeking deaf adults and nationally certified sign language interpreters to participate in this exciting program.  The time commitment will require attendance at two mentorship trainings (scheduled for April 23 – 25 & June 25 – 27, 2010), a mentorship refresher training (scheduled for December 4, 2010), provide mentoring services of 5 hours per month for a period of 6 months (October 2010 to March 2011) and attend the Closure Meeting (scheduled for March 27, 2011).  Those interested must meet the qualification requirements and successfully complete the mentorship training before being hired to provide the mentoring service to a mentee.  Mentors will be paid a stipend for the mentoring services provided through the Wisconsin Mentoring Program (WMP).

For those of you in Illinois, you may be interested in one or more of the conferences in this publication.  There is also the latest info and links on being prepared in case of a disaster.  Enjoy!

http://www.idhhc.state.il.us/familyInfo/index.htm

Got some news this week that required me to read and agree to the Wisconsin Statutes regarding conduct for those serving in a Governmental or Elected position here in the State.

Here's the link for those of you that have never read these Statutes: 

http://ethics.state.wi.us/StandardsofConduct/StandardsConduct.htm

As I was reading through these, it occurred to me that there are a lot of 'iffy' situations going on right now.  It seems that even with specific rules and ethics, someone is always able to find a 'gray' area in which to bend the rules to their liking.  Maybe that's how we got into the current situation that we are in now.

 Did you know that all of the 'fines' imposed on Ethics violations here in the State are deposited into the State School Fund?  Unfortuntely, I could only read the complaints and their outcomes up to 2005 on the State website.  Would be interesting to see what has happened since then.

Have a great week!

For those of you looking for a family oriented conference on services in Wisconsin for D/HOH children, this is a good one! 

Here's the link:  http://www.wesp-dhh.wi.gov/wesp/out_famcon.cfm

Have a great week!

For those of you wanting to REALLY know what happened during the bail-out crisis (Nov. 2008), check this column out that I found in Bloomberg.

http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601039&sid=aaIuE.W8RAuU

So, why aren't we hearing about this via the main stream media?  Why is the N.Y. Fed. Res. Bank making decisions that are impacting the world?  Who the heck is keeping an eye on these people?

Here's the latest news that I could find regarding the lawsuit Bloomberg filed in November 2008 against the FRB of NY. 

http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601087&sid=a7CC61ZsieV4

And, finally, here's another article on how the FRB gets around the requests for information.

http://www.businessinsider.com/how-the-fed-gets-around-freedom-of-information-act-requests-2009-11

Meanwhile all of us are trying to recover from our own financial crises brought on by dealings that, over the years, left all of us holding the bag.  Makes you wonder how many of those that really were 'in the know' from a lot of administrations sleep at night....

Have a great week!

HLAA (Hearing Loss Association of America) has compiled a list by state of the laws for those of you that are looking to purchase a hearing aid in the near future.  These were compiled as of Jan. 27, 2010.

Here's the Link:  http://www.hearingloss.org/learn/consumerprotection.asp

Please remember, that there are some hearing aid providers out there that will verbally promise you a full refund.  It's always a good idea to know what the laws/rules are in the State that you live in before you step into 'the showroom'!

Have a great week!

Don't forget!  Every Wednesday night, this website has an open chat night.  Senthil is from Waukesha, WI and has done a great job of getting those in the Hearing Loss World together weekly via their computers to talk about the latest triumphs and challenges in their lives.  It's free!  Check it out!

http://www.iamhearingimpaired.com/chat/chat_online.php

Senthils' contact information is also on this link just in case you have any questions for him.  The open chats start at 8pm (central time).

Have a great week!

The Holidays are over, the weather is cooperating (so far) and it's time to start the 2010 HLAA Lake Country Chapter Hearing Loss Support Group Meetings again!  Here's what we will be doing at our February meeting.

Date:  Thursday, Feb. 11, 2020

Place:  Wales Community Center

216 W. South Street  Wales, WI  53183

Time:  6:30pm

We recently finished getting our Chapter a non-profit status via the National HLAA Organization.  When we started our group back in April 2008, we weren't sure how it was going to go, so we held off on doing the final paperwork that will now enable donations to be tax deductible.

Due to this, we will now start holding elections in February for a slate of officers for the Chapter.  At this meeting, there will be a discussion on what exactly the non-profit status rules are and how they pertain to us.  We will be asking for nominations from the members on who they would like to handle the business matters of the Chapter.  We are looking for 4 interested people.  After the nominations and discussion are completed, we will then hold an election.  This will be done by paper ballot and overseen by the current Chapter Co-Leaders which are Tami, Dick and Margo.

If you are interested in becoming one of the officers, your term will be for 1 year.  This does not mean that you will be 'on your own' when it comes to the 'running' of the Chapter!  We will open a checking account and continue having our meetings in the format that we've always used.

Looking forward to this 'next step' for our group!  And, since we are one of the 'teams' in the Milwaukee Walk4Hearing in May of this year down on the Milwaukee lakefront (May 16th), this will enable us to receive donations from those wishing to see us continue the programs and services that we've provided for the past 22 months. 

Anyone looking for hearing loss support, ideas or fellowship are welcome to attend our meetings.  There is no charge to attend and you do not have to be a member of HLAA.  It's a great group and we've solved alot of problems as well as addressed quite a few issues so far.  Looking forward to the future!

Have a great week!

For those of you that already know Senthil (he's from Waukesha, WI), he also has a hearing loss blog that will keep you updated on not only what he is doing and experiencing, but also what is coming up on his online open chat nights.  They are held every Wednesday.

For more details, here's the link to his blog.  http://www.outerchat.com/?p=40

Thanks, Senthil!  We really appreciate all that you do and congrats on the numerous participants!

Have a great week!

One of our Hearing Loss Group members passed away this past week.  Since there were quite a few of her friends that were D/HOH, I was interested to find out what, if any accommodations would be provided by the Funeral Home for the service.  Add in the snowstorm and things got a little crazy.

Luckily, the minister printed out copies of the service for those with hearing loss to follow along with.  I was wondering why CART was not provided.  Due to the weather, the attendance at the funeral was small.  But, in researching this topic as well as talking with the Wisconsin Office for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing, I was able to find out some more information.

Did you know that the Americans with Disability Act Title III has specific guidelines as to what should be provided for those needing special accomodations?  Here's the actual information taken from the Department of Justice Website.

Sec.36.303 Auxiliary aids and services.

(a) General. A public accommodation shall take those steps that may be necessary to ensure that no individual with a disability is excluded, denied services, segregated or otherwise treated differently than other individuals because of the absence of auxiliary aids and services, unless the public accommodation can demonstrate that taking those steps would fundamentally alter the nature of the goods, services, facilities, privileges, advantages, or accommodations being offered or would result in an undue burden, i.e., significant difficulty or expense.

(b) Examples. The term "auxiliary aids and services'' includes --

(1) Qualified interpreters, notetakers, computer-aided transcription services, written materials, telephone handset amplifiers, assistive listening devices, assistive listening systems, telephones compatible with hearing aids, closed caption decoders, open and closed captioning, telecommunications devices for deaf persons (TDD's), videotext displays, or other effective methods of making aurally delivered materials available to individuals with hearing impairments;

(2) Qualified readers, taped texts, audio recordings, Brailled materials, large print materials, or other effective methods of making visually delivered materials available to individuals with visual impairments;

(3) Acquisition or modification of equipment or devices; and

(4) Other similar services and actions.

(c) Effective communication. A public accommodation shall furnish appropriate auxiliary aids and services where necessary to ensure effective communication with individuals with disabilities.

(d) Telecommunication devices for the deaf (TDD's). (1) A public accommodation that offers a customer, client, patient, or participant the opportunity to make outgoing telephone calls on more than an incidental convenience basis shall make available, upon request, a TDD for the use of an individual who has impaired hearing or a communication disorder.

(2) This part does not require a public accommodation to use a TDD for receiving or making telephone calls incident to its operations.

(e) Closed caption decoders. Places of lodging that provide televisions in five or more guest rooms and hospitals that provide televisions for patient use shall provide, upon request, a means for decoding captions for use by an individual with impaired hearing.

(f) Alternatives. If provision of a particular auxiliary aid or service by a public accommodation would result in a fundamental alteration in the nature of the goods, services, facilities, privileges, advantages, or accommodations being offered or in an undue burden, i.e., significant difficulty or expense, the public accommodation shall provide an alternative auxiliary aid or service, if one exists, that would not result in an alteration or such burden but would nevertheless ensure that, to the maximum extent possible, individuals with disabilities receive the goods, services, facilities, privileges, advantages, or accommodations offered by the public accommodation.

What does this mean for those of you looking into funeral services that will be attended by D/HOH/Blind?  The Funeral Home should be providing CART, Transcripts, ect. for those attendees.  But, if the family does not request that this service be provided, the Funeral Homes tend to not bring it up.  I'm sure that there are some FH's out there that do go above and beyond, but for the most part, since they can't pass the cost of these services on to the consumer, they don't let families know what is available.

So, what should you do?  If the situation comes up that you have a family member pass and you know that some of the attendees will be Hard of Hearing, Deaf or Blind, request that the Funeral Home provide these accommodations!  If you have further questions, here's the ADA Website:    http://www.ada.gov/

If you have additional questions specific to your State, contact your State Office for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing.  They have lots of information for you and it's free of charge.  I think that you will be surprised at how much help you can get as well as information and referrals to their unlimited resources when it comes to finding out what's out there for those of us that need a little help in the hearing world.

Have a great week!

Copyright 2010 Tami Klink

How many of you have written something to share with others and 'borrowed' a phrase, fact or statement from someone else that you have read?  There are literally thousands of great writings that are now accessible to all of us via the internet, books and published articles.  How many students have decided to save a little time by inserting another authors' words into their homework? 

Before the advent of the computer age, it was pretty tough to find instances of plagiarism.  Now, it's fairly easy.  Most teachers use one of the free internet websites to check their students papers.  Here's an example of one:  http://www.articlechecker.com/

There are many more to choose from if you are in the teaching world.  Just type in Plagiarism Checker in your search window and pick the one that you are most comfortable with.  Knowing that what you are writing can be scrutinized in this manner, I cannot imagine why you would even take the chance if you are posting an article, column or story on a website or even having it published in paper form.  Yet, there are still those out there that don't hesitate to use someone elses' work.

Recently, there was a case of this down in Florida.  The person has written several books, posts columns via a news website and has a blog.  To top all of that off, he's a Lawyer!  You would think someone in that profession would know better.  His story of how this all happened is here:  http://www.miamiherald.com/news/miami-dade/story/1473780.html

While his reasons for doing it are pretty comical, it is more interesting to see what impact this has on his reputation and credibility.  He recently published yet another book and now I'm wondering how much of it is really his work.  Not a good spot to be in for an author.

In my case, I don't even try and insert statements, phrases or stories into my articles.  I just post the link of where I'm getting it from.  It's easier, saves me a little typing time and lets me go right to my thoughts and comments on the topic.  I also like the fact that I'm giving others the opportunity to be exposed to another writer.  We all perceive things in a different way.  The insertion of a phrase or word in a different manner than how I would do it can literally change the view of the person reading it.  Besides, I'm not that good of a writer! :) 

So, for all of you out there that are looking at or even now using the words of someone else, take a few minutes and think about what damage this will do to your image.  It's just not worth it.  After all, if your writings are any good at all, there are people out there that will take the time to read it and maybe learn something that they didn't know.

Have a great week!

Copyright 2010 Tami Klink

For those of you wanting to know more about the Wisconsin Chapters, there is now a new website for our State Office.

Here's the link:  http://hlaa-wi.org/

Also, you may have started to hear about the first Walk4Hearing to be held in Milwaukee on May 16, 2010 at Veterans Park on the lakefront.  HLAA started having these walk/fundraisers for the local Chapters about 4 years ago.  Here is the link for the National website:  http://hlaa.convio.net/site/PageServer?pagename=walk_home_page

To find out if your State is holding a Walk this year, just click on 'select your walk'.  This will take you to a listing of the states that are participating.  Click on the State that you want to support and it will take you to the 'teams'.  Pick the team you want to join or contribute to and you are in!

For those of you interested in joining our team, here's the link to our page:  http://hlaa.convio.net/site/TR/Teamraiser/2010MilwaukeeWalk?px=1468501&pg=personal&fr_id=1670&et=2Vb9fxgyIV8HgYgtUGMKSw..&s_tafId=9990

We are looking for any area residents interested in supporting hearing loss to join us down in Milwaukee on May 16th.  If for some reason, you do not want to participate in the actual walk, but still want to donate to the cause, you can just click on the donate button. 

All monies generated from these 'Walks' will be used to support the many Chapters in each State that are participating.  We are one of those groups that does not get any federal or state money to continue our support programs.  In our case, we keep our costs low and so far have been able to continue our group.  Thanks to the Village of Wales, our cost to use their Community Center is still easy to manage for us.  But, there are a lot of Chapters out there that struggle monthly to 'pay' the bills associated with running a support group.

All Chapters that are participating are designated as non-profit 501(c)(3)'s via the IRS.  That means that any money donated to them via the walk is tax deductible to the contributor.  It's a big step for all of us to take to get to this point.  But, based on the many positive stories from the participants in the Chapters, it is well worth it!  In our case, we have seen some of our members get hearing aids, cochlear implants and the confidence to enter the work force or learn how to accept and deal with their hearing loss in a hearing world. 

Have a great week!

ODHH Net

Installment #498, February - 2010

Just received this info. today.  It looks like this project (parents will get paid by the hour) will be focusing on Nebraska, Kansas, Iowa, Illinois, North Carolina & Missouri.  If you live in one of those states and would like to participate, please log on to the website below in the email. 

Have a great week!

On Wed, Feb 17, 2010 at 4:01 PM, DHH, Webmaster <DHH.Webmaster@illinois.gov> wrote:

Hearing and Vision Connections was recently contacted by Marcia St. Clair at  the University of Iowa about a new study into the outcomes of children with hearing loss. Some of you may already be aware of this study. I  offered to distribute information about the project to  Illinois  individuals connected to services to and families of young children with hearing loss.

You are receiving this information as the contact person for an identified group.  Please distribute to families and other interested individuals as possible.  ( I will include a list of Illinois groups that I am distributing this to at the end of this email).

This is what I know about the project based on my conversation with Marcia St. Clair:

The name of the project is Outcomes of Children with Hearing Loss.  There will be one full year of recruitment of families, followed by a 5-year research study.  The target group is children ages  6 months to 6 years with bilateral mild to moderate/severe loss. The study does not include children with cochlear implants.

Funding for the project is provided by The National Institute of Health and The National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders. The project will look at listening ad hearing aide status, and will test speech and language, academic and social development.  Child testing and parent questionnaires  will be involved.  Parents will be paid $15 per hour for their participation.  Testing will be provided in the families  local communities through the use of mobile testing units and families will not be asked to travel. Testing will be completed by an audiologist and an SLP.  Different protocol will be used for each age range.

There are 3 sites collaborating:

1) Boys Town National Research Hospital in Omoha (which is branching out into Kansas and Missouri)

2) University of Iowa (which is brancing out into Illinois)

3) University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill.

The Process: 

1) Interested parents complete and send the post card found on the brochure

2) The project will contact the family directly

3) There will be a telephone screen to determine if the child qualifies for the study.

Here is the website with more information concerning the research project:

http://www.uiowa.edu/~ochl/

On this site you can view the electronic version of the brochure given to parents. If you would like hard copies of the brochure, please let me know and I can either send them to you or have them sent to you directly from the project.

Illinois entities this email is being sent to :

Hearing and Vision Connections

Early Hearing Detection and Intervention (UNHS Council) Illinois Teachers of Hard of Hearing and Deaf Individuals Illinois Supervisors of Programs Serving Individuals who are Deaf/Hard of Hearing Choices for Parents Guide By Your Side Illinois Hands and Voices Institute for Parents of Preschool Children Who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing Illinois Department of Public Health Illinois Early Intervention Developmental Therapists/Hearing Illinois School for the Deaf Illinois School for the Deaf Outreach Program (Parent Conferences) Marion School for the Hearing Impaired Division of Specialized Care for Children Illinois Department of Human Services, Bureau of Early Intervention Illinois Deaf and Hard of Hearing Commission Illinois Speech Language and Hearing Association Childrens Memorial Hospital, Chicago CAOS - Carle Auditory Oral School ECHO - Expanding Children's Hearing Opportunities Childrens Memorial Hospital, St. Louis The MOOG Center for Deaf Education, St. Louis CID, Central Institute for the Deaf, St. Louis

Thank you for your assistance in distributing this information.

Gail Olson, Program Coordinator

Hearing and Vision Connections

@The Illinois School for the Deaf

125 Webster Avenue

Jacksonville, Illinois  62650

Email :           Gail.Olson@illinois.gov

Main Office :  (217) 479-4318

Direct Line:    (217) 479-4320

Fax :              (217) 479-4328

Website:       http://morgan.k12.il.us/isd/hvc

Just received this.  If you have a child (elementary aged) with hearing loss, this is an opportunity for you to share the 'Arts' with them!

Have a great week!

Please share this information regarding the 2010 national tour of this wonderful play for children and their families:

The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts and VSA arts

present

“Nobody’s Perfect”

Based on the children’s book by Marlee Matlin and Doug Cooney

Adapted for the stage by Doug Cooney

Music by Deborah Wicks La Puma

ASL Translation by Alexandria Wailes

Music Direction by Christopher Youstra

Directed by Coy Middlebrook

Company ASL interpreters: Sam Parker and Jayne Tubergen

Featuring Deaf Actress:  Tami Lee Santimyer as Megan

This play is performed in both American Sign Language and spoken English

with  Open Captioning.

"A NEARLY PERFECT MUSICAL!
Youthful gusto and a generous heart. Outstanding production values and top-notch cast.
An infectious score... three-and-a-half stars!"
- The Washington Times    Read the full review
 
"PRE-ADOLESCENT ANGST, WITH HARMONY...
Nobody's Perfect delights with comic numbers and an excellent young cast. 
The songs are not only catchy but also infectiously performed. Bright 'n' lively!"
- The Washington Post    Read the full review


Fourth grade is not easy and after spending a year planning her "positively purple" birthday party, Megan finds herself at odds with new student Alexis. To Megan, Alexis has it all: beauty, brains, and athletics--she's practically perfect in every way. Though Megan tries to be nice to her, Alexis is anything but friendly, making Megan wonder, "Does she not like me because I'm deaf?" When they're forced to collaborate on a science project, Megan discovers Alexis's secret. Based on the children's book by Academy Award winner Marlee Matlin (Best Actress, Children of a Lesser God) and Doug Cooney, this touching new musical--simultaneously performed in spoken English and American Sign Language--with Open Captions, is a poignant reminder that despite first impressions, nobody's perfect. For ages 9 and up.

For a behind the scenes tour and  interviews with the cast and director in ASL or English with captioning visit:  http://artsedge.kennedy-center.org/nobodysperfect/

Please support this performance by purchasing tickets and enjoying the show when it comes to your town!  Schedule below:

·         February 19 - Texarkana, TX -  Perot Theatre, www.trahc.org

·         February 23 - Gilbert, AZ - Higley Center for the Performing Arts, www.higleyarts.org

·         February 27 - Poway, CA - Poway Center for the Performing Arts, www.powayarts.org

·         February 28 -  La Mirada, CA - La Mirada Theatre, www.lamiradatheatre.com

·         March 2-4 - Las Vegas, NV - Gilbert Magnet School

·         March 9 - Cerritos, CA - Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts, www.cerritoscenter.com/index.aspx

·         March 16 - La Crosse, WI - Fine Arts Center, Viterbo University, www.viterbo.edu/finearts1.aspx

·         March 19 - Lincoln, NE - Lied Center for Performing Arts, www.liedcenter.org

·         March 22 - Springfield, IL - Sangamon Auditorium,  www.uis.edu/sangamonauditorium

·         March 25 - Paducah, KY - Carson Four Rivers Center,  www.thecarsoncenter.org

·         March 30 - Des Moines, IA - Civic Center of Greater Des Moines,  www.civiccenter.org

·         April 1 - Junction City, KS - C.L. Hoover Opera House,  www.jcoperahouse.org

·         April 7 - Memphis, TN - The Orpheum Theatre,  www.orpheum-memphis.com

·         April 12 - Elyria, OH - Stocker Arts Center – Lorain County CC,  www.lorainccc.edu/Stocker+Arts+Center

·         April 13 - Sylvania, OH - Franciscan Center,  www.franciscancenter.org

·         April 16 - Greenville, NC - East Carolina University,  www.ecu.edu/cs-studentlife/mendenhall/wrightauditorium

·         April 19 - Spartanburg, SC - Chapman Cultural Center,  www.chapmanculturalcenter.org/index.php

·         April 22 - Orange Park, FL - Thrasher Horne Center,   http://thcenter.org

·         April 23 - Punta Gorda, FL - Charlotte Performing Arts Center

·         April 26-27 - West Palm Beach, FL - Kravis Center for Performing Arts,  www.kravis.org/index.cfm

·         May 3 - Pembroke, NC - Givens Performing Arts Center,  www.uncp.edu/gpac/

·         May 7-8-  New York, NY - Jack H. Skirball Center for the Performing Arts @ New York University,  www.skirballcenter.nyu.edu

·         May 11 - Brooklyn, NY - Brooklyn Center,  www.brooklyncenter.com

·         May 12 - Flushing, NY - Queens College,   http://kupferbergcenter.org

·         May 13 - Buffalo, NY - Shea’s Performing Arts Center,  www.sheas.org

Thank you for helping to spread the word to your community!

Betty Siegel

Director of Accessibility

The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts

Washington, D.C. 20056

(202) 416-8727 (voice)

(202) 416-8728 (TTY)

(202) 416-8802 (fax)

access@kennedy-center.org

For those of you that really don't like to read or investigate what a hearing loss is like, this makes it easy for you.  Here is a video of a Flintstones cartoon clip that illustrates what hearing loss sounds like.  While it may not be of a scientific nature, for those of us that live this everyday, it's pretty darn close.  Keep in mind that not all of us have the same loss.  Some of us have a loss in the lower (bass) tones and others have a loss in the higher (soprano) tones.  And, then there are some that have a loss in both ranges. 

When you click on the video, note the chart/graph on the right hand side.  The segment starts out at a 'normal' hearing range and then goes to a mild loss, moderate loss, ect.  If you find yourself turning the volume up, you may want to investigate further and see if you have a hearing loss. 

Here's the link:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TD5E88fFnxE

For more information on what sounds you could be missing/not hearing, feel free to look at my Speech Banana/Audiogram results.  Here's the link:  http://www.livinglakecountry.com/blogs/communityblogs/45013802.html

On another note, I saw Patrick Duffy (was an actor on Dallas in the 1980's) doing a television commercial for Miracle Ear this week.  Keep in mind that the companies that use 'famous' people in their ads still need to be checked out for just how good their product, testing and company reputation are.  To do this, just type in the name of the company or product followed by the word complaints in your search window.  There are a lot of good sites on the internet as well as the Better Business Bureau. 

The last famous person that I saw hawking 'hearing aids' was Lee Majors for the 'Bionic' Hearing Aid.  As I stated a few months back, it usually takes around 6-18 months for the complaints to start on products advertised as a great way to get your 'hearing' back that are really a rip-off.  Here's an example of what that company is doing.  http://www.ripoffreport.com/miscellaneous-electronics/bionic-hearing/bionic-hearing-lee-majors-bio-a346e.htm

If you have any doubts or if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is!  Take the time to check out the information via the internet.  It doesn't cost you anything (especially if you use a computer/internet at your local library) and could result in saving you a lot of frustration and money. 

Have a great week!

Copyright 2010 Tami Klink

I was recently contacted by the editor of Deaf Digest.  This 'magazine' is available via the internet and it's free!  While checking it out, I ran across an interesting article having to do with finding a hotel that has accommodations for those that are D/HOH.  Here's the link:  http://deafdigest.com/deaftravel/

The magazine has numerous articles on just about everything that you can think of.  It's updated every Monday.  There's even a section that has the latest job openings specifically for those that are D/HOH. 

If you are interested in receiving this publication, just click on the subscribe button at the top of the page.  It's free due to the support of the advertisers.  And, for you sports buffs, there is also a Sports edition online.

Have a great week!

For those of you that want to know more of the financial details of companies, here's a really good place to start.  http://www.footnoted.org/

The woman that started this company reads through the SEC filings and finds the little hidden gems that usually don't make it to your local newspaper.  While most of us tend to follow the herd and believe everything that is told to us via the MSM, there is a lot of information that we are not getting.  The link above will take you to some of the last few weeks columns. 

I liked the fact that she has the links in each story that will take you to the actual SEC filing so that you can read it for yourself.  I think she is going to have plenty of business for the time being.  After all, who else do you know that does this kind of stuff? 

Have a great week!

Just received this from HLAA's National Office. 

HLAA is working for you: Public Policy and Advocacy  by Lise Hamlin 

 http://hlaa-advocacy.blogspot.com/

On Friday, February 19, 2010, HLAA along with other consumer and industry representatives attended a meeting of the Digital Closed Captioning & Video Description Technical Working Group. This Working Group is hosted by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to tackle the problems consumers have seen with closed captioning in a DTV world.

It has become apparent that some of the problems with captioning on DTV's are complex and difficult to track down and solve, some are not so difficult but need the industry to devote resources to address, and others need input from the FCC to ensure the problems are solved. It was good to hear that the folks at the FCC are determined to make headway to solve these difficult problems.

It appears that one issue is that we don't have enough data to know what all the problems are. One way to address that is for consumers to send in more complaints. Well, it just got easier to complain!

At the Feb 19th meeting, the FCC announced that the rules that had been adopted by the FCC for filing of captioning complaints back in November, 2009, are now in effect. We believe these new rules will help consumers get their captioning problems solved much more quickly than the old rules and allow the FCC and industry to better understand the kind of problems we are seeing and where we are seeing those problems.

Under the new rules:

1. You can contact the program distributor directly. The program distributor is the broadcaster, the cable company, the satellite company or whoever is sending you the television signal. The new rules say that a contact person must be available during hours of operation for broadcasters, cable companies and satellite companies so that you can call or email a real person, and, with any luck, get your problem solved very quickly. This has the potential to be very good for complaints where there is a quick fix, like captions suddenly disappearing during a program. Your program distributor's contact information should be made available on the company's bill or on their website very soon, if it is not there already. After March 22, you can also find the contact information on the FCC's website.

2. You can contact the FCC. The new rules say you can bring your complaint to the attention of the FCC first. The FCC will then send your complaint to the program distributor. Also, you can contact the FCC even after you contacted the program distributor directly, if that problem was not solved. This will be helpful because the FCC will be able to see the kinds of complaints that are coming in, and might even be able to start seeing patterns in our complaints.

3. The rules say you must send in a complaint within 60 days of the captioning problem. And the program distributor will have 30 days to respond after they received the complaint from you or the FCC.

4. You can file your written complaint with the FCC by using the on-line complaint form found at esupport.fcc.gov/complaints.htm?sid=&id=d1e3. You can also file your complaint with the FCC’s Consumer Center by e-mailing fccinfo@fcc.gov; faxing 1-866-418-0232; or writing to:
Federal Communications Commission Consumer & Governmental Affairs Bureau Consumer Inquiries and Complaints Division 445 12th Street, S.W. Washington, DC 20554

For more information about closed captioning and the complaint process, visit the FCC's website at http://www.fcc.gov/cgb/consumerfacts/closedcaption.html

So, do send your complaints to the FCC. I for one, look forward to the time when we have no complaints to send in!

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Posted By Lise Hamlin to HLAA is Working for You: Public Policy and Advocacy at 2/20/2010 01:44:00 PM

We spent Saturday night with my husbands' fantasy football team members having our annual get-together.  As we were all having dinner and talking about what we had all been up to in our lives, the discussion topic changed to the current state of affairs in our lives and country when it comes to the current financial mess.

As we all listened to those that had stories to tell, I couldn't help but think of the history of this whole scenario.  Here are some of the things that I came up with.  Feel free to add to the list!

1.  Remember when our National Government was more of an afterthought vs. today when it is the all knowing, rule making, terminal growth we deal with on a daily basis?  For example, back in the 'old days', most of the population could go weeks without hearing anything about the latest conflicts, fraud, spending or how our government was going to 'fix' the lastest problem.  We all worked together in our little communities and did what we could to fix the local problems.  If someone needed a little extra help, it usually started out at the Sunday church service where the congregation was informed of the problem and what was needed to help that family out.  By Sunday afternoon, food would be showing up at the familys' house, some would volunteer to help out with the fields or animals if the owner happened to be a farmer unable to accomplish his daily tasks.   There was no mention of money changing hands, favors being owed at a later date or a scoresheet being kept.  If you had something that you could part with or time that you could spare, no one gave a second thought to helping out.  The person in the situation was not judged or looked down upon.  After all, it could happen to any of us. " The only gift is a portion of thyself."  ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

2.  Before the advent of 24 hour television, we had (most of us) 3 channels on our black and whites.  It was rare to turn the television on before the chores were done.  After all, if we sat watching the television, the laundry would not get done, cleaning the house would be put on hold and who would make the staples needed for the week?  Remember the saying, "Things may come to those who wait, but only the things left by those who hustle."  ~Abraham Lincoln

3.  Thinking back to how people looked at money, I can remember almost all of my grandparents not bothering to go to the bank.  Instead they kept their money at home.  Hidden in the strangest of places.  Of course, with the advent of the banking system enticing all of us to open accounts and receive that nifty coffee pot, we soon became customers.  After all, if someone was going to give you something for free, you would be a fool not to take advantage of the program.  Now we see most people depositing their paychecks electronically.  You don't even have to make a trip to these fine institutions to give them your money.  Of course the day of free 'premiums' have pretty much ended.  And, most of us are now in the situation of owing the bank much more money than we ever had hidden in our houses.  It took a lot of years to get all of us into this situation.  We were constantly told that the American Dream was to own a house, car (several in fact), take out a loan for that material thing that we could not possibly wait and save our pennies for and of course we were only too happy to pay the bank for the priviledge of getting access to money that for the most part, we could have lived just fine without.  

Then, the government came up with this great idea of Home Equity Lines of Credit and the bankers came up with the idea of credit cards.  Why wait to have what you want just because you don't have the money to pay for it now?  Let us help you to achieve your goals and dreams.  When did the dream of being thousands of dollars in debt and no longer having control over your financial life become a good thing to do?  Like a herd of cows, we were led to believe and do what all of the others around us were so excited about.  So, how's that latest credit purchase looking to you now?  Do you still get as much enjoyment out of it knowing that based on most payment schedules for the loans or credit, you will probably be paying close to 40% more than it originally cost?  How is that helping you to improve your life when you are looking at ways to make the minimum payments?  Do you think that it would be a good idea to get back to a positive cash flow?  Do you even remember how to do that?  "The modern banking system manufactures money out of nothing. The process is perhaps the most astounding piece of sleight-of-hand that was ever invented. Banking was conceived in inequity and born in sin... But if you want to continue to be slaves of the bankers and pay the cost of your own slavery, then let the bankers continue to create money and control credit."
Josiah Charles Stamp

 

4.  That brings me to the ultimate American falsehood.  Our fantastic retirement/401k/Roth IRA accounts.  Remember the days when you either had your 'retirement' funds hidden at home, put into interest bearing (ok, I know it was not a great rate) savings accounts or CD's, city bonds, ect.?  Remember all of the hype via our great government, IRS and banking system when the politicians finally passed those great rules for these things?  Where were we all told to put it?  Yup, the stock market.  Did any of us even think about what the Stock Market really was?  How it operated?  Who was in Charge?  Nope, we once again turned into a herd of cows and followed the crowd.  After all there were so many 'people in the know' that were more than willing to help us achieve that dream of sandy beaches and cruising the world after the age of 65.  And, the fees that they were going to charge us were not really that bad.  After all, this meant that we wouldn't really have to pay attention to what they were doing with our money.  They were the experts!  

So, here we are.  Looking at each other and wondering what the heck happened.  When did we lose control of our lives?  How is the government going to help us now?  This is what happened in a period of 2 generations.  So, what do you have to show for it and how are we going to fix it?  Of course, the people that we gave all of this power to are more than willing to show the herd which way to go...

Have a great week! 

Just received this from our new President, Dick Davies, of our Hearing Loss Group here in Wales.

The topic for tonights' open chat night is:  "Keeping up with Technology"

Here's the link:  http://www.outerchat.com/?p=44

Just click on the link to get started as a member of the group.  The online 'chats' start at 8pm (CDT) and are open to anyone living with or trying to find out more information on hearing loss.

Have a great week!

For those of you that don't know what Flo TV is, here's the link:  http://www.flotv.com/

There is another blogger here in the U.S. that actually spoke to a person connected with Flo TV about their plans for closed captioning.  Here's the link to that column:  http://captionaction2.blogspot.com/2010/02/flo-tv-cant-commit-to-captioning.html

My thoughts on this:

1.  Since this will enable you to 'watch' TV via your cellphone or a 'personal' television (see Flo TV website for more info.), I am wondering how the individual States are going to regulate this when it comes to driving a vehicle while watching television.

2.  I found that there are quite a few stations available that have contracted with Flo TV to provide programming.  But, I'm wondering how they are going to address getting the local 'news' or public emergency information out to those that are looking to have this service as their only link to television.  We all know how it works on our home television sets.  Amber alerts, Severe Weather information, ect.  Based on the fact that you are now going to be looking at a very small screen, will you even be able to read the closed captioning if it does become available?

3.  How much technology do we really need?  It seems like we are being bombarded into so many things now that really don't enhance or improve our lives.  Not to mention how much your monthly charges via your cell phone company are going to increase with this service. 

Have a great week!

For those of you that do not subscribe to the National Emergency Email Service, here's what I got today.

http://www.emergencyemail.org/newsemergency/anmviewer.asp?a=489&z=43

This service is really good in my case since I would not hear any audio emergency signals or announcements via the radio/tv.  You don't have to be D/HOH to sign up for it.  Just follow the link that is on the above website.  They send out emails whenever there is an emergency situation in your area or an important announcement that they want you to see regarding your personal safety.

Regarding the Census Scam, please take the time to read the 'alert'.  Obviously, the scammers are taking advantage of a lot of people that do not really know how the Census is taken.

Have a great week!

Don't forget, our monthly meeting will be this coming Thursday, March 11, 2010 at 6:30pm.

We meet at the Wales Community Center located at 216 W. South St. in Wales, WI

Our meetings are open to the public and there is no charge to attend.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me at 262-442-8724 or tamiklink@gmail.com

Have a great week!

Received this today via email.  Thanks to Cochlea USA and Hearing Loss Association of America for sharing it.

Don't Buy A Hearing Aid If You Don't Care:

If you don't care about what your spouse has to say;

If you don't care about what your children have to say;

If you don't care about what your grandchildren have to say;

If you don't care about what your friends have to say;

If you don't care about talking on the telephone;

If you don't care that the TV is too loud;

If you don't care that you can't hear warning signals;

If you don't care about what your doctor has to say;

If you don't care about your life, your career and job opportunities;

If you don't care - don't buy a hearing aid!!!!!!!

But, if you do care . . . . .

Contact Hearing Loss Association of America for more information

Brought to you by CochleaUSA

Have a great week!

It really is amazing how one famous person can change the thinking of so many people.  For those of you that watch football, you may remember the television footage of Drew with his 1 year old son celebrating on the field after their Super Bowl win this year.  The first thing that I noticed was that his little boy was wearing ear protection.  Wow!

Here's the link for those of you that missed it:  http://www.sun-sentinel.com/health/sfl-baby-ears-030210,0,3562891.story

We have been talking about how all parents (grandparents too!) should protect their young childrens' hearing.  But, when most people hear it from a doctor, friend, news article, ect., they ignore it.  I would like to thank Drew Brees for showing all of us how easy it is to take those steps to ensure that our kids will have great hearing all of their lives.  The sales of hearing protection muffs, headsets, ect. have gone up 40% since the game.

If you are looking for one of these, here are a few places you can buy them.  The price for the child-size ones are around $20 - $30 each. (Peltor has a lower price than most!)

http://www.envirosafetyproducts.com/product/Peltor-Kid-Earmuffs.html  -  According to the article, these are the ones that Drew had for his son.  And, they are only $12.95 for kids up to age 7!

http://www.amazon.com/s/?ie=UTF8&keywords=kids+ear+protection&tag=googhydr-20&index=aps&hvadid=3856158741&ref=pd_sl_41eq8316oi_b  Amazon Store Website

Cabella's website:  http://www.cabelas.com/cabelas/en/templates/index/index-display.jsp;jsessionid=CYUUWDXU30X5PLAQBBJCCOFMCAEFGIWE?id=cat20801&rid=0123456789&cm_mmc=PPC-_-Google%20Non%20Brand-_-Sho_Shooting%20Accessories_Hearing%20Protection%20/%20Enhancements-_-hearing%20muff&_requestid=22862

Have a great week!