Thanks to the State of Wisconsin Office for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing for the following information!

Have a great week!

ODHH Net

Installment #490, June 15, 2009

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. 
 

• LEGISLATIVE UPDATES – STATE AND FEDERAL
• LAST CALL – INDEPENDENCE FIRST ‘FACE TO FACE’ HIGH SPEED INTERNET PROGRAM (HSI)
• LAST CHANCE TO REGISTER FOR CDHH SUMMER SIGN LANGUAGE CLASSES
• DISCOUNTED BELL BIKE HELMETS @ CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL OF WISCONSIN ER
• HLAA-WI CALL FOR BOARD NOMINATIONS
• 2009 IRID FALL CONFERENCE CALL FOR INTERPRETERS
• CALL FOR PROPOSALS – PROFESSIONAL & FAMILY CONFERENCES 2010
• NOMINATIONS OPENED FOR OTICON’S 2009 FOCUS ON PEOPLE AWARDS
• 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

LEGISLATIVE UPDATES – STATE AND FEDERAL

**State: Governor Jim Doyle signed SB 27 on May 21, 2009 requiring health insurance policies and plans to cover hearing aids or cochlear implants and related treatment for children less than 18 years of age. The bill takes effect January 1, 2010.

**Federal: Senator Tom Harkin (D-IA) introduced the Hearing Aid Assistance Tax Credit Act (S. 1019) which will provide the opportunity for an individual to receive $500 per hearing aid tax credit every five years. The bill is similar to H.R. 1646, introduced earlier this year by Representative Carolyn McCarthy (D-NY). The House bill, however, limits access to the tax credit to children and individuals over the age of 55 whose income does not exceed $200,000. The Senate version is inclusive to all individuals, regardless of age or income. Now is the time to contact both your members of Congress in the House and Senate. Track the bills at http://www.govtrack.us/congress/bill.xpd?bill=h111-1646 and/or http://www.govtrack.us/congress/bill.xpd?bill=s111-1019. Senator Herb Kohl (D-WI) is a co-sponsor; Senator Russ Feingold (D-WI) sent a letter on May 15 to the Chairman and Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Finance asking they consider S. 1019. The House bill has 77 co-sponsors including several from Wisconsin. #490

LAST CALL – INDEPENDENCE FIRST ‘FACE TO FACE’ HIGH SPEED INTERNET PROGRAM (HSI)

IndependenceFirst is on the “final stretch” of the ‘Face To Face’ High Speed Internet (HSI) Program. The HIS program will come to an end in a few weeks. New applications will not be accepted after June 19, 2009. For more information or to request an application contact Dianna Dentino, 414-226-8309 V/TTY; ddentino@independencefirst.org. #490

LAST CHANCE TO REGISTER FOR CDHH SUMMER SIGN LANGUAGE CLASSES

The Center for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (CDHH) is now accepting registrations for upcoming sign language classes for kids and adults. All classes will be held at the Center, 10423 W National Avenue, West Allis, WI. CDHH sign language classes are available for all skill levels and interests. For full class details or to register online please visit www.cdhh.org or call 414-604-2200. Classes begin week of June 22. Registrations must be received one week prior to the start of class. #490

DISCOUNTED BELL BIKE HELMETS @ CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL OF WISCONSIN ER

A helmet is the single most effective way to prevent and reduce severe head injuries. There is NO good reason not to wear a helmet. Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin’s (CHW) ER department offers discounted Bell bike helmets to adults, youth, and children through a grant from a head injury prevention program. Stop in anytime at the ER at CHW to purchase a Bell bike helmet for only $10 for anyone in your family. Information on head injury prevention available at www.bellbikehelments.com/helmet101.asp.  #490

HLAA-WI CALL FOR BOARD NOMINATIONS

HLAA-Wisconsin is calling for nominations to the state Board. There are 4 Board vacancies. Terms are for 3 years. Nominees must: 1. Be a Member in good standing of the national Hearing Loss Association of America; 2. Commit to a 3 year term on the Board; 3. Commit to attending 2-3 meetings each year at a central location in Wisconsin. (Meetings are usually held on Saturdays in Stevens Point.); 4. Commit to corresponding regularly by electronic mail. (One regular Board meeting may be scheduled online, as are most committee meetings.); 5. Be a hard of hearing person who chooses to use technology to remain in the hearing mainstream; 6. Have a genuine interest in and/or knowledge of issues relating to people who are hard of hearing. (Note: The bylaws require 2/3 of the board to be hard of hearing.) If you are interested in serving on the HLAA-WI Board of Trustees, please submit a letter of interest to: Carolyn Small, HLAA-WI Nominating Committee Chair, E9182 639^th Avenue, Elk Mound, WI 54739 or by email to cmsmall926@yahoo.com. If you know of a member you feel would be a good candidate for nomination, please submit her/his name and contact information by letter or email to Carolyn. A member of the Nominating Committee  will contact that individual. Nominating Committee members are Carolyn Small, Chair, Julie Olson, and Jenni Tiziani. This is an EXCITING year to get involved with HLAA. A Walk4Hearing is scheduled in Milwaukee in the Spring of 2010 AND the HLAA National Convention will be held in Milwaukee during the Summer 2010! #490

2009 IRID FALL CONFERENCE CALL FOR INTERPRETERS

Illinois RID is accepting applications for full and part time interpreters for their Annual Fall Conference to be held Friday and Saturday, November 20-21, 2009 at Columbia College in Chicago, IL. Certified interpreters who hold CI and CT, CSC, CDI, NAD 4 or 5, NIC Advanced or Master are preferred. Other applicants will be considered but must hold a minimum of CI, CT, NIC or NAD 3. All applicants must be RID members in good standing and have at least 5 years of general interpreting experience post-certification. Interested interpreters should submit: letter of interest stating interest in full or part-time work as well as strengths and weaknesses (i.e. interpreting vs transliterating, S-V and V-S); current resume highlighting conference and platform interpreting experience; letter of recommendation from the following: 1. Deaf consumer; 2. Certified interpreter, 3. Conference coordinator. Please submit all application materials via email to Josh Garrett, CI, CT, NIC, IRID Fall Conference Interpreter Coordinator at TerpJG@yahoo.com. Deadline for submission is Wednesday, July 1, 2009. #490

CALL FOR PROPOSALS – PROFESSIONAL & FAMILY CONFERENCES 2010

Proposals to present at the Wisconsin Educational Services Program for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (WESP-DHH) annual Statewide Professional Conference ( March 11-12, 2010) and/or the Statewide Family Conference (March 12-14, 2010) are being accepted. WESP-DHH is looking for innovative presentations on pertinent topics. If you have an expertise or unique topic to share with professionals and/or families, please consider completing an application. Go to http://www.wesp-dhh.wi.gov/wesp/out_call_for_proposals.cfm for more information and an application form. Applications are due by October 10, 2009. #490

NOMINATIONS OPENED FOR OTICON’S 2009 FOCUS ON PEOPLE AWARDS

In 12 years, the Oticon Focus on People Awards has honored more than 180 extraordinary people who are changing the perception of what it means to have a hearing loss. This year, Oticon, Inc. is again seeking nominations of outstanding individuals with any degree of hearing loss for the 2009 Oticon Focus on People Awards. The national awards program recognizes students, adults, and advocacy volunteers whose accomplishments demonstrate that hearing loss does not limit a person’s ability to make a difference in their families, their communities or the world. Anyone can nominate an individual for this year’s awards. First place category winners will receive $1000 award and a $1000 donation by Oticon to a nonprofit cause of their choice. Second place winners receive $500 and third place winners receive $250. People may nominate themselves or other individuals with hearing loss for the awards. Hearing care practitioners nominated for the awards need not be a person with a hearing loss. Please visit www.oticonuse.com under the Professional or Consumer sections and click on Oticon Focus on People Awards link for more information and/or to complete an application. Deadline for award nominations is September 21, 2009. Winning nominations will be announced in November. #490

ARTICLES & PUBLICATIONS OF INTEREST

http://www.tampabay.com/news/education/k12/article1003210.ece Florida Montessori School for students who are deaf becomes more inclusive

http://www.kentucky.com/142/story/802939.html Art classes inspire student who is deaf

http://www.consumerreports.org/health/healthy-living/home-medical-supplies/hearing/hearing-aids/overview/hearing-aids-ov.htm Consumer Report article on hearing aids to appear in July 2009 issue

http://www.informationweek.com/news/mobility/messaging/showArticle.jhtml;jsessionid=G25YLGB1Z2PVSQSNDLRSKH0CJUNN2JVN?articleID=217800368 Technology allows people with disabilities to text 911

http://www.wisn.com/entertainment/19443179/detail.html New sea lion at Milwaukee County Zoo is deaf

http://speech-language-pathology-audiology.advanceweb.com/Article/Benefits-of-Early-Language-Program.aspx Benefits of early language intervention

http://www.nad.org/site/pp.asp?c=foINKQMBF&b=91587 Latest news from NAD; New NAD website experience coming!

http://www.Lifetonesafety.com Lifetone HL Bedside Fire Alarm with bedshaker

SUPPORT FOR INDIVIDUALS/PARENTS/FAMILIES—NEW ANNOUNCEMENTS

**Fox Valley Regional Chapter HLAA: The Hearing Loss Association of America Fox Valley Regional Chapter meets on the 2^nd Monday of each month (April – December) at 6:30 p.m. at the Unitarian Fellowship in Appleton, WI. Meetings are open to anyone interested in learning more about living with hearing loss. Realtime transcription (CART) is provided. A loop system and an FM system are also installed in the meeting room. Monthly programs are educational in nature, with the exception of the summer picnic (July) and the annual holiday party (December). HLAA members are consumers of hearing assistive technologies, and use such technologies to remain in the hearing mainstream. HLAA-FV publishes a monthly  newsletter/meeting notice that is available upon request. Contact Julie at julieo@athenet.net to be placed on the electronic mailing list. #490

**Parents as Collaborative Leaders: A new leadership training curriculum helps empower parents of children with disabilities to advocate for change in their communities. This curriculum, a project of the University of Vermont and PACER is now available as 10 PowerPoint modules at www.uvm.edu/~pcl/modules.php  and on PACER’s site at www.PACER.org.  #490

**The Center on the Social and Emotional Foundations for Early Learning has developed parent training modules that help families promote children’s social and emotional skills, understand children’s problem behaviors, and use positive approaches to help them learn appropriate behaviors. The modules are available at www.vanderbilt.edu/csefel/parent.html.  #490

**The HLAA E-News published on May 18, 2009 included a link to the “Consumer Guide to Purchasing a Hearing Aid” check list. Here it is: http://www.hearingloss.org/learn/docs/HLAAHearingAidChecklist_4-14-2009.pdf.  Consumer Reports has a detailed article on hearing aids in their July issue! Read it at http://www.consumerreports.org/health/healthy-living/home-medical-supplies/hearing/hearing-aids/overview/hearing-aids-ov.htm.  #490

LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES—NEW ANNOUNCEMENTS

**The Wisconsin Mentoring Program pilot project is designed to offer WITA verified interpreters with scores of 3:2 or 2:3 who are interested in raising their WITA score at least one level or taking their RID NIC performance exams. This project includes deaf interpreters seeking to take their CDI written and/or performance exams. Full WMP program details and application are attached. Please share this information with any interpreter in Wisconsin you feel might benefit. If you have any questions, please contact either Amber Mullett, 608-261-7823 Voice or Karen Dishno, 608-234-4709 VP. Applications are due July 10, 2009.

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.

**Deaf and Hard of Hearing Program Manager, McBurney Disability Resource Center, University of Wisconsin – Madison. The Program Manager has the primary responsibility for developing and maintaining appropriate and effective services for students who are Deaf or have a hearing loss. This position requires strong managerial and administrative skills and the ability to work with minimal supervision to respond to highly specialized, complex, and constantly evolving program initiatives in a timely and thorough manner. For more information, please use the following link to view the full position listing: http://www.ohr.wisc.edu/pvl/pv_062067.html. Resumes and questions should be directed to Diane Steele, dsteele@odos.wisc.edu. Application deadline is June 30, 2009. #490

**Assistant Professor or Instructor, University of Minnesota-Duluth. This is a “Multiple Hire 2009-10 posting and includes instructors for American Sign Language. There are several sections of ASL. The positions will likely be part-time adjunct. For details, please visit https://employment.umn.edu/applicants/jsp/shared/frameset/Frameset.jsp?time=1244760823040.  Application deadline is June 30, 2009. #490

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.

**June 15 – August 14, 2009: “Sign Language: An Introduction” offered at Northcentral Technical College, Mondays & Wednesdays, 8:00 – 11:50 a.m., 2 NTC credits. Course number 10-533-100. Deadline to register is June 15. Registration available online or call 1-888-NTC-7144 or 715-675-3331 ext 5861. For more information contact Cheryl Kanitz at kanitz@ntc.edu. #490

**June 15 – August 14, 2009: “Introduction to Interpreting for the Deaf” ONLINE class. This class opens June 15 and all work must be done by August 14; Registration open until July 15 for this online class. Registration available online or call 1-888-NTC-7144 or 715-675-3331 ext 5861. Course number 10533-141. Contact Beth Kind for more information at bkind@ntc.edu. #490

**June 16, 2009: Cochlear Implant Workshop—Learn how to enhance your cochlear implant listening experience with assistive listening devices; Center for Deaf and Hard of Hearing, 10243 W National Avenue, West Allis, WI, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. OR 4:00 – 6:00 p.m. Refreshments provided. RSVP to Kara Murphy at karamurphy@cochlear.com. CART services will be provided. You are not required to attend both workshops. #490

**June 18: “Boost Your Voicing Techniques!” workshop series sponsored by ILRID at Polk Conference Center, Anixter Center, 2023 N Clybourn, Chicago, IL 60614. Seating limited to 30 people. View flyer at http://www.ilrid.org/pdf/Boost_your_voicing_techniques.pdf.  #483

**June 18, 2009: Wisconsin Community on Transition meeting; Focus on post-secondary experiences, statewide updates on transition activities from employment, health, youth development, family involvement practice groups; 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., Madison Area Technical College—Truax Campus. To RSVP (required) contact Sandy Hall at sghall@matcmadison.com.  Next meeting October 22, 2009: Topic—Family Involvement. Location TBA. For questions regarding the Wisconsin Committee, look at www.sharedwork.org under Community of Practice on Transition, Wisconsin. #489

**June 18-20, 2009: WAD Conference will be held at Wisconsin School for the Deaf, Delavan, WI. Volunteers are needed. Contact Jenny Gember at jennygem@gmail.com if you are interested in helping. Vlogs detail the 2009 WAD Conference at www.youtube.com/wadconference2009 and also on the home page of WAD’s website at www.wi-deaf.org.

**June 18-21, 2009: HLAA to celebrate 30^th birthday at Convention 2009 in Nashville, TN at the Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center. Register early for a chance to win a Nintendo Wii. For convention information, go to www.hearingloss.org.

**June 19, 2009: Disability Rights Wisconsin Board Listening Session at Hotel Chequamegon, Ashland, WI from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. The Board is interested in hearing especially from consumers and family members living in the area regarding disability issues in the northwest part of the state. Full details available at http://www.disabilityrightswi.org/archives/316. #490

**June 20, 2009: ALDA-Southern Wisconsin Group (Note: this date is tentative pending program). To confirm meeting details, contact Jessica Congdon, mjcongdon@sbcglobal.net.

**June 21-26: Wisconsin Lions Camp, Rosholt, WI for students who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing ages 6-12. For more information go to www.wisconsinlionscamp.com.  #489

**June 22-26, 2009: “What Choice Do I Have: Consecutive Interpreting and More” with Lauri Krouse. This one week institute will focus on options for managing a variety of interpreting assignments including video relay and community interpreting jobs that are challenging. Details at http://minerva.stkate.edu/offices/academic/interpreting.nsf/pages/consecutive. Register by April 30 for early bird rate. #488

**June 22-26, 2009: “Educating Diverse Students: Language, Culture, & Learning” at Gallaudet University, Washington D.C. Interpreters welcome to attend. For conference schedule and other information, visit www.caidconference.org.  #488

**June 22, 2009: Special Needs Financial Planning Workshop, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m., Middleton Public Library (downstairs conference room). This FREE workshop is for all families with a member(s) with special needs. Details and RSVP (by June 19) available on the MAGIC: Middleton Abilities Group Improving Community website at http://magic4ourkids.ning.com/events/free-special-needs-financial. #490

**June 24-28, 2009: American Society for Deaf Children 21^st Bienniel Conference, Oklahoma School for the Deaf, Sulphur, OK. For information go to http://www.deafchildren.org/default.aspx.  Click on “Conference” at the top of the page. #489

**June 25-28, 2009: 30^th World’s Largest Silent Weekend in Orlando, FL. There are many classes appropriate for interpreters, ASL and ITP teachers and students. Please see www.DrSign.com for details and registration information. #487

**June 25 – July 22, 2009: Youth Leadership Camp, Stayton, OR  hosted by National Association of the Deaf. Information available at http://www.nad.org/site/pp.asp?c=foINKQMBF&b=2294527.  #489

**June 26 and 27, 2009: Wisconsin Dental Association (WDA) and WDA Foundation “Mission of Mercy” to provide free dental care to 1,200 children and adults at the La Crosse Center, 300 Harborview Plaza, La Crosse, WI. Doors open at 6:00 a.m. Cleanings, fillings, extractions, and limited treatment partials will be offered on a first-come, first-served basis. All ages who are uninsured, underinsured, or otherwise unable to visit a dental office and do not have a medically-compromising condition such as extremely high blood pressure or severe disabilities that prohibits receiving care are welcome. Children under age 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Visit www.wda.org for more information. #490

**June 28 – July 3, 2009: Wisconsin Lions Camp, Rosholt, WI for students who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing ages 10-17. For more information go to www.wisconsinlionscamp.com.  #489

**June 28 – July 10, 2009: National Leadership and Literacy Camp for High School Students offered by Camp Lakodia. For more information go to www.nllcamp.com.  #489

**July 11, 2009: The Office for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing is offering FREE workshops to help Deaf people answer questions about HIV/AIDS. What is your risk for HIV? Do you need to get an HIV test? How much do you know about sexual health? How do you talk to your kids about sex and HIV? Workshop will be held 1:00 – 3:00 p.m., La Crosse Community Policing Center, La Crosse, WI.

**July 12-24, 2009: National Leadership and Literacy Camp for Middle School Students offered by Camp Lakodia. For more information go to www.nllcamp.com.  #489

**July 13-30, 2009: “American Sign Language 3” by Vicki Shapiro at Northcentral Technical College, Wausau, WI. Target audience are advanced students of interpreting and working interpreters. Pre-requisites are ASL 1 and 2 or their equivalents. Course #10-533-130-0, computer class #13056. Cost is $223.00. Two technical college credits & 3.0 RID CEUs available. To register, call NTC, 1-888-NTC-7144 or 1-715-675-3331 Ext 5861. Payment in full must be made at time of registration. MasterCard and VISA may be used.  #489

**July 18-23 or 25-30, 2009: RIT/NTID “Explore Your Future” for Juniors only, Rochester, NY. Information at http://www.ntid.rit.edu/prospectives/eyf.php.  #489

**July 19-21, 2009: Midwest Conference On Deaf Education, Sioux Falls, SD. To learn more about the conference and to register, go to www.augie.edu/mwcde.  #489

**July 22-26, 2009: 12^th Biennial Deaf Women United (DWU) Conference in Portland, OR sponsored by Deaf Women of Oregon and SW Washington (DWOW). Deaf, Deaf-Blind, and Hard of Hearing women from all over the USA and Canada are welcome. DWU or DWOW members register by December 31, 2008 for the early bird rate of $225. Go to http://www.dwu.org or http://www.dwow.org for more information.

**July 25, 2009: La Crosse Social Deaf Community picnic at Copeland Park on Copeland Avenue and Clinton Street, La Crosse, WI; 11:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. Hamburgers/hot dogs $1.00; brats/cheeseburgers $1.50; pop $.50; water bottle $.75. Bring potluck side dishes and desserts. Bring your own lawn chair. Contact Jean Anderson, andersonj500@aol.com or Mark Kaitner, 608-782-4830 TTY if you have questions. #486 (updated #489)

**July 25, 2009: “Visualize This: Drawing in Space with ASL Classifiers” presented by Trix Bruce, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. at Holiday Inn Eau Claire – Campus Area, 2703 Craig Road, Eau Claire, WI 54701. This workshop provides participants with an overview of using Classifiers by focusing on what they mean, when to use them, and how they are used. For complete workshop details including fee, bio of the presenter, and registration form, please go to www.TrixBruce.com. Click on “Calendar” and scroll down to July 2009. RID CEUs/ACET credit available. Workshop presented in ASL only—no voice interpreters will be provided. Lunch in on your own. #490

**July 31, 2009: “Big Fat Norwegian Wedding,” an Interactive Dinner Theatre hosted by Independent Living Resources, La Crosse, WI at City Brewery Hospitality Center, 1111 3^rd Street South, La Crosse, WI 54601. Tickets are $40 per couple/$25 single and must be purchased in advance. Price includes a very nice meal, the dinner show, music, dancing, cake, and raffle. The show begins promptly at 6:00 p.m. For reservations please call 608-787-1111 by July 24, 2009. Checks should be made payable to Independent Living Resources. Seating is limited. #490

**August 1-6, 2009: RID National Conference in Philadelphia, PA. Go to www.rid.org for more information. #486

**August 8, 2009: NAD Fundraising Event—Midwest DeaFest at Golden Corral Buffet & Grill Theatre, 3551 Shepherd Hill Expressway, Branson, MO 65616; Dinner 5:30 p.m., Deaf Entertainment 7:00 p.m. June 15 deadline to order for dinner ticket. More details and ticket ordering information available at https://app.e2ma.net/app/view:CampaignPublic/id:14147.1996335697/rid:e41301c15079bfe9d4f40b058e874f37  #489

**August 10-13, 2009: Summer Institute 09: focus on skillbuilding workshops for Educational Interpreters. Kevin Williams, previous Diagnostician for the Educational Interpreter Performance Assessment will team with classroom teachers in various content areas to provide modules that focus on interpreting at all grade levels in the areas of math, science, social studies, and literature. For more information visit the WESP-DHH web site at http://www.wesp-dhh.wi.gov/wesp/out_si.cfm. #489

**August 15, 2009: 4^th Annual Deaf Picnic, 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. at West Park, Darien, WI. Watch for more information. #487

**September 21-22, 2009: Wisconsin Aging and Disability Resource Center Conference 2009, Stevens Point Holiday Inn & Convention Center, Stevens Point, WI. Details will be provided as they become available. #489

**December 5, 2009: Eau Claire Deaf Social Christmas Potluck, 2:00 p.m., Grace Lutheran Church, 202 W Grand Avenue, Eau Claire, WI. Note that there will not be any Deaf Social gatherings held March – November this year.

**February 18 & 19, 2010: Save the Date—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

**July 7-11, 2010: 50^th Biennial NAD Conference-Philadelphia at the Philadelphia Marriott. Watch for updates at http://www.nad.org/site/pp.asp?c=foINKQMBF&b=4565431.

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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.wi-deaf.org is the site for information on state chapter meetings and events; www.nad.org is the national site.
• 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

**Gallaudet University Summer Youth Program opportunities: Summer 2009. Go to http://summer.gallaudet.edu/Summer_Programs_Home/High_School_Youth_Programs.html.  #489

**Going to Work Guide, updated: First published in 2007, the Going to Work: A Guide to Social Security Benefits and Employment for Young People with Disabilities has been updated. The Guide provides basic information about Social Security disability and health benefit programs, explains what happens to these benefits when a young person goes to work, and explains how to maximize a young person’s options when starting work. Going to Work is available at http://www.communityinclusion.org/article.php?article_id=211.  #489

**Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin has added a section to their internet page with information about transitioning to adult care. Several transition topics are addressed as well as a Family Resource section with links to several helpful tools and resources. The direct link to the Transition to Adult Care Page is http://www.chw.org/display/PPF/DocID/43541/router.asp. This information is meant to be a helpful and dynamic resource for patients and families and others interested in transition to adult health care. Feedback on the site can be directed to Rhonda Werner, rwerner@chw.org.  #488

**The E-Learn, Inc. web site has numerous free articles and information developed to support adult learners preparing for the GED and the networks that serve them. The articles include frequently asked questions, GED eligibility, study skills, test tips, scores and how to get motivated and manage test anziety. Articles also address GED benefits and resources, from where to take tests and why they’re valuable, to guides for finding financial aid support. To view the articles visit: http://www.passged.com. Sponsored by REFERENCE POINTS, an activity of TATRA, a project of PACER Center.  #488

**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

**A new resource for students with disabilities interested in going to college: http://www.going-to-college.org/. It contains information about living college life with a disability and provides video clips, activities, and  resources that can help get a head start in planning for college. #486

**Two new handouts to help parents of transition-age youth are now available on the PACER Center Web site. The handouts are produced by Project PRIDE, a parent information and training project funded by the Rehabilitation Services Administration: “Start Now to Chart Your Youth’s Career Path After Graduation” (PHP-c162) and “Help Your Young Adult Learn About Accessing Accommodations After High School” (PHP-c165) are available at http://www.pacer.org/publications/transition.asp#handouts. These and other PACER Center handouts for parents specifically on the Americans with Disabilities Act and other transition issues can be found on the above website. #484

**iTransition is a free, online transition curriculum to help students who are deaf or hard of hearing prepare for life after high school. There are four separate trainings with activities to help students learn about themselves, their career goals, and the skills they need to be successful in the future. iTransition is designed for deaf or hard of hearing students ages 14 through adult. For more information, visit http://www.pepnet.org/itransition.asp.  #483 (6/15/2009 Editor’s note: The link to iTransition was incorrect in previous ODHH installments. My apologies for any inconvenience this error created. Thank you to Bambi Riehl for the correction! Check out other resources you may not have seen that are available at www.pepnet.org: an online College Guide, spring newsletter, Resource Kit for Itinerant teachers, and more.)

**HLAA has formed a new, online social community for young adults (ages 18 – 35) on the Web. It’s a sort of Hard of Hearing Facebook and gives young adults the opportunity to meet and interact with people their own age who have a hearing loss. If you, or someone you know, might like to learn more about this new outreach effort, go or send them to http://hearinglossnation.ning.com/. #483

**NIDCD Launches Campaign to Protect the Hearing of Tweens: A new campaign to help parent of 8 – 12 year olds teach their children how to avoid hearing loss from overexposure to loud noise was launched this month by the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD). The new campaign called, “It’s a Noisy Planet. Protect Their Hearing” features a new web site offering advice to parents on the causes and prevention of noise-induced hearing loss, how to recognize when a child’s hearing is at risk, and ways to reduce noise exposure. View the site at http://noisyplanet.nidcd.nih.gov/. #482

**College Parents of America, http://www.collegeparents.org, has developed a free one-stop “Parent Resource Center” offering information and guidance to help parents prepare youth for college, navigate the admissions process, and make the most of the challenges of child and parent relations during the college years.

**Entering the World of Work: What Youth with Mental Health Needs Should Know about Accommodations available at http://www.dol.gov/odep/pubs/fact/transitioning.htm.

**The U.S. Department of Education recently released an updated version of the document “Opening Doors: Technology and Communication Options for Children with Hearing Loss.” These publications are available in English and Spanish. They provide background on early intervention, the use of technology and other support available to children with hearing loss and their families. PDF and Word versions of the document are available online at http://www.ed.gov/about/offices/list/osers/products/opening_doors/index.html.

**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.

**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 Wisconsin Deafblind Technical Assistance Project (WDBTAP) is looking for school personnel to participate in a pilot project. Paraprofessionals who work 1:1 with a child who is deafblind along with one other school professional (teacher, related service provider, administrator, etc.). This training is FREE including lodging, accommodations, meals, and personal mileage reimbursement. School districts are reimbursed through WDBTAP for the cost of substitutes when school personnel are in training. These on-site trainings are held in Lake Elmo, MN, 3 miles from Hudson, Wisconsin. Trainings are Friday evening and all day Saturday from September – April (actual training dates to be determined). Contact Heidi Hollenberger for more information, 608-356-0235 or heidi.hollenberger@wesp-dhh.wi.gov. Space is limited to 5 districts (10 participants).  #489

**Educational Interpreter Mentoring Project (EIMP): A new WESP-DHH Outreach/DPI initiative designed to support educational interpreters in Wisconsin by providing trained and qualified mentors for identified educational interpreters. In addition to the EIMP, the Wisconsin Office for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (ODHH) is also initiating a similar mentoring program for community interpreters, the Wisconsin Mentoring Program (WMP). WESP-DHH and ODHH are collaborating in an effort to provide comprehensive and in-depth training to mentors. The EIMP will begin in the Fall 2009. See more details about EIMP in the 2009 Summer Edition of the WESP-DHH newsletter at http://www.wesp-dhh.wi.gov/April-May-June_Newsletter.pdf. Contacts are included in the newsletter for more information. #489

**Start-Up USA is offering a new web-based course on self-employment planning with people with disabilities. A great learning opportunity! http://www.worksupport.com/documents/selfemploycourse2009.pdf.  #488

**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.

**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.” Here’s a list of future training topics by month: June—Terp Smarts (one class only) and Mental Health Interpreting; July—Concert Interpreting II; August—Terp Smarts (one class only) and Educational Interpreting; September—Medical Interpreting and Train the Trainer; October—Team Interpreting; November—Terp Smarts (one class only) and County Appointment Interpreting; December—no classes (winter break). 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.

**Deaf Initiative in Technology (DiiT) 2009 Summer Workshop Schedule: http://www.rit.edu/ntid/ics/diit/. All workshops are held at the national Technical Institute for the Deaf at the Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, NY. #486

REMINDERS: JOB OPPORTUNITIES

**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.

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