NAD E-News Update (March 10, 2010)

Posted in: Inside TAD, TAD Announcements by TAD Administration on March 10, 2010 | 0 Comments

NAD E-NEWS SUMMARY

This inaugural summary highlights what the NAD has done for the period of
February 27-March 10, 2010. Use the URL next to the title of individual news or
blog items to see the full story/feature.

NAD Issues Call for Recognition Award Nominations (March 10, 2010)
<http://www.nad.org/sites/all/modules/civicrm/extern/url.php?u=246&qid=639406>
The NAD Board of Directors invites nominations for Recognition Awards to be
presented during the 50th Biennial NAD Conference to be held July 6-10, 2010 in
Philadelphia, PA. Click on title for submission instructions; all award
nominations must be received at NAD no later than Monday, April 12, 2010; late
or incomplete submissions will not be accepted after this date.

Local 10-digit Numbers Are Superior to Toll Free Numbers (March 10, 2010; video
included)
<http://www.nad.org/sites/all/modules/civicrm/extern/url.php?u=253&qid=639406>
Since November 2009, all VRS and IP Relay users have local 10-digit numbers. The
NAD believes that local 10-digit numbers for VRS and IP Relay users are superior
to personal toll free numbers (800 or 866 numbers). However, many VRS and IP
Relay users still have two numbers – a local 10-digit number and a toll free
number. This was not the goal of the local 10-digit numbering plan. The NAD
encourages VRS and IP Relay users to use their local 10-digit numbers and stop
using personal toll free numbers.

Update on Toll Free Numbers (March 10, 2010; video included)
<http://www.nad.org/sites/all/modules/civicrm/extern/url.php?u=254&qid=639406>
The NAD, working with TDI and other consumer groups, advocated strongly for the
Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to allow people to use VRS and IP Relay
toll free numbers (800 or 866 numbers) the same way hearing people use toll free
numbers.  Today, as a result of these efforts, all calls to VRS and IP Relay
toll free numbers are connected.  The FCC will review and may develop new
policies for toll free numbers.

NAD Briefs Broadband and Cable Lawyers about H.R. 3101 (March 8, 2010)
<http://www.nad.org/sites/all/modules/civicrm/extern/url.php?u=247&qid=639406>
Rosaline Crawford, director NAD Law and Advocacy Center, presented information
about the “Twenty-first Century Communications and Video Accessibility Act of
2009” (H.R. 3101) at the “Broadband and Cable Industry Law 2010” seminar
sponsored by the Practicing Law Institute (PLI). Crawford also represented the
Coalition of Organizations for Accessible Technology (COAT). The NAD is a
founding and steering committee member of COAT.
 

NAD to Participate in National Broadband Plan Events (March 8, 2010)
<http://www.nad.org/sites/all/modules/civicrm/extern/url.php?u=248&qid=639406>
On March 9 and 10, the NAD took part in Federal Communications Commission (FCC)
events related to the National Broadband Plan. Participants will discuss how the
recommendations in the National Broadband Plan now being developed by the FCC
will address the accessibility and affordability barriers faced by people with
disabilities.  The conference will explore the role of innovation; the need for
legal, policy, and regulatory changes; and the importance of collaborative
problem-solving and open government processes.

NAD Announces CEO Application Period Has Closed (March 5, 2010; video included)
<http://www.nad.org/sites/all/modules/civicrm/extern/url.php?u=249&qid=639406>
The CEO Search Committee is now in the process of reviewing and will soon
interview applicants; three finalists will be recommended to the NAD Board by
this July. The finalists will be available during the 50th Biennial NAD
Conference in Philadelphia July 6-10, 2010 to interact with everyone, meet with
stakeholder groups, and give a public presentation. Make plans now to be in
Philadelphia this summer!

NAD Responds to "The Who" Super Bowl Lyrics (March 5, 2010; video included)
<http://www.nad.org/sites/all/modules/civicrm/extern/url.php?u=250&qid=639406>
In 1969, the British rock group “The Who” recorded a two-record album titled
“Tommy” which has a song entitled “Pinball Wizard.” The refrain to this song is:
that deaf, dumb and blind kid / sure plays a mean pinball! “The Who” played this
song during Super Bowl XLIV on February 7, 2010, which was closed-captioned.
Many of us saw these lyrics for the first time and reacted negatively – why is
this song being played in this day and age? We must collectively be vigilant and
ensure that we are not described in a derogatory way.

NAD Commends Google Roll-Out of Automatic Captions (March 4, 2010)
<http://www.nad.org/sites/all/modules/civicrm/extern/url.php?u=251&qid=639406>
All YouTube videos in English that have a clear audio track can now be
automatically captioned. While Google’s speech-to-text automatic captioning
service is far from perfect, the NAD applauds Google’s commitment to access.
This feature is an excellent tool that makes the process of captioning videos
much easier. Video owners can download the auto-generated captions, correct
them, and then upload the accurate captioning file.  Alternatively, video owners
can upload a transcript and use Google’s auto-timecode feature that
automatically matches the transcript to the audio file to produce captions.

NAD to Advocate for ASL at EHDI Conference (February 27, 2010)
<http://www.nad.org/sites/all/modules/civicrm/extern/url.php?u=252&qid=639406>
Representatives from the National Association of the Deaf (NAD) attended the 9th
annual Early Hearing Detection & Intervention (EHDI) Conference March 1-2, 2010
in Chicago, IL. NAD participation in this year’s EHDI Conference is a part of an
ongoing effort to educate EHDI professionals on the importance of American Sign
Language (ASL) in the language acquisition of deaf and hard of hearing babies.
The NAD will stress the importance of involving deaf and hard of hearing people
in all aspects of EHDI programs and services. Such participation is essential to
ensure that every family gets the appropriate care, balanced
information/resources, and support services that they need.

Want to receive more frequent news updates?  Follow NADtweets on Twitter, or
visit www.twitter.com/NADtweets. Your comments are always welcome via Twitter
and on the NAD website (Latest News and Blogs).

###

–
The National Association of the Deaf
8630 Fenton Street, Suite 820
Silver Spring, MD 20910-3819
United States

Tim Jaech Becomes Editor of The Deaf Texan

Posted in: Inside TAD, TAD Announcements, TAD President's Corner, The Deaf Texan Newsletter by TAD Administration on February 19, 2010 | 1 Comment

Texas Association of the Deaf, Inc.

P.O. Box  1982

Manchaca, Texas 78652

  www.deaftexas.org

Media Contact:

Steve Baldwin

dfsmithtx@aol.com

February 19, 2010

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Tim Jaech Becomes Editor of The Deaf Texan

AUSTIN, TX- Last month the TAD board voted unanimously to appoint Tim Jaech of Austin as the new editor for 65-year-old state association newsletter, The Deaf Texan.  Jaech is slated to take over the publication in June.  Meanwhile, Steve Baldwin, current TDT editor, will become the assistant editor, which guarantees a smooth transition of journalistic endeavors.  Trudy Suggs of T.S.Writing Services will continue as layout editor, proofreader and consultant.

In view of Jaech’s appointment, TAD President Paul Rutowski shares his enthusiasm: “TAD is absolutely delighted to secure the caliber of a proven writer, editor, leader, advocate and educator.”  “ We are also pleased, “ adds Rutowski ”that Dr. Baldwin will remain as part of the newsletter team and we thank him profusely for his three years of setting the publication bar higher in the opinion of appreciative members and readers throughout the state and nation.”

Jaech is a native of Los Angeles, California who became profoundly deaf at the age of two. He attended oral schools until his family moved to northern California and he graduated from the California School for the Deaf in Berkeley and went on to get his B.S. degree in Education of the Deaf from Gallaudet University in 1961. He began his teaching career at the Minnesota School for the Deaf and obtained his M.A. in Administration and Supervision from California State University, Northridge in 1966.  Thereafter, he worked as a teacher, principal, and program specialist at the California School for the Deaf, Riverside and Los Angeles County Schools until he accepted the superintendence of the Wisconsin School for the Deaf in 1992.

After 42 years of services in the education of deaf and hard of hearing children, Jaech retired in 2003 as a State of Wisconsin consultant for families and school districts with deaf and hard of hearing children.  He has served as a board member in numerous capacities for state associations of the deaf, state agencies, and private organizations in Minnesota, California, and Wisconsin. He currently serves on the Board of Directors of Signing L.O.V.E., a non-profit organization involved in video-tutoring of deaf children on a nationwide basis.

Among Jaech’s many interests are a love for architecture, baseball, poetry, and writing. He was an editor for the California Association of the Deaf Dateline newsletter and more recently wrote a column for the National Association of the Deaf in its Members Only section. He currently writes a column for the Deaf Seniors of America publication, New Horizons.  He hopes to continue the fine contributions made in The Deaf Texan as its new editor and perhaps help bring an even larger readership to become well-versed in the lives of the fascinating deaf and hard of hearing persons who make Texas a great place to live and prosper.  Since moving to Austin last June 2009, Jaech and his wife, Silvia, have found Austin’s deaf community deserving of its reputation for warm hospitality and friendliness!   Indeed, TAD is fortunate to have them both in Texas.

Texas Association of the Deaf is a non-profit 501 (c) 3 organization that was organized in 1886 to safeguard the rights of deaf and hard of hearing Texans.  Please view our website at deaftexas.org for more details.

Tim Jaech, new editor of The Deaf Texan, is

already developing his vision for the quality

newsletter of the Texas Association of the Deaf

DHHS Open House

Posted in: Inside TAD, TAD Announcements by TAD Administration on February 12, 2010 | 0 Comments

NAD, NFL, and CBS Collaborate to Increase Captioned Super Bowl Commercials

Posted in: Inside TAD, TAD Announcements by TAD Administration on February 5, 2010 | 1 Comment

NAD E-NEWS
 

NAD, NFL, and CBS Collaborate to Increase Captioned Super Bowl Commercials
 

The National Association of the Deaf (NAD) and the National Football League
(NFL) along with CBS Corporation, the network airing Super Bowl XLIV on February
7, 2010, have collaborated to make advertisers who purchase Super Bowl
commercials aware of the importance of captioning their content. As a result of
these efforts, viewers should notice an increased number of captioned
commercials compared to previous Super Bowls. The NAD thanks the NFL and CBS
Corporation for their efforts to promote closed captioning of the television
commercials.

Working alongside with the NAD and the NFL, CBS encouraged all of their Super
Bowl advertisers to close caption their commercials. The NAD appreciates the
efforts of the NFL and CBS on this important issue for the deaf and hard of
hearing community. The NAD will monitor the results as we pursue a fully
captioned experience from start to finish for all future Super Bowls.

The Super Bowl experience includes not only the exciting battle between two
football conference champions, but also groundbreaking creative ads which have
become a cultural phenomenon. While the Super Bowl game has been captioned for
years, the commercials have remained less accessible. With the help of the NFL,
the percentage of Super Bowl commercials captioned in last year’s Super Bowl
showed a significant improvement. The deaf and hard of hearing community has
engaged in an annual ritual of counting the number of captioned advertisements
during the Super Bowl.

–
The National Association of the Deaf
8630 Fenton Street, Suite 820
Silver Spring, MD 20910-3819
United States

NAD E-NEWS: Early Bird I Conference Registration Deadline

Posted in: Inside TAD, TAD Announcements by TAD Administration on January 30, 2010 | 0 Comments

NAD E-NEWS

Early Bird I Conference Registration Deadline

The 50th Biennial NAD Conference – July 6-10, 2010 – in Philadelphia, PA will be here before you know it!

Take advantage of Early Bird I Combo Registration savings – the deadline is this Sunday, January 31, 2010. You can register online or download the PDF registration form at www.nad.org/philly/register.

If you plan to attend most of the conference, your best option is to purchase Combo Registration. The Combo includes: Basic Registration (workshops/commissions, exhibits, member forum, business meetings, conference program book and tote bag), Welcome/Opening Ceremony, College Bowl Finals and Miss Deaf America Finals. Meal events including the Closing Banquet are optional.

Those opting for later Early Bird II Combo Registration must do so by May 31, 2010; no Combos will be sold after this date.

Don’t delay – register today!

–
The National Association of the Deaf

If you wish to opt-out of all further emails, please click here:
http://www.nad.org/index.php?q=civicrm/mailing/optout&reset=1&jid=123&qid=535153&h=4e160652510d2b9a

Breakout Conference: Effective Mental Health Services for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Persons

Posted in: Inside TAD by TAD Administration on January 25, 2010 | 2 Comments

Breakout Conference:
Effective Mental Health Services
for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Persons
 
June 17-19, 2010
 
Westin Atlanta North Hotel at Perimeter
Seven Concourse Parkway
Atlanta, GA
 
Goal of the Conference
The American Deafness and Rehabilitation Association (ADARA) is pleased to revive the Breakout Conference in cooperation with the Gallaudet University Regional Center at Flagler College. The goal of this conference is to provide training and networking opportunities for mental health professionals serving deaf, deafened, and hard of hearing adults and/or children who have severe mental illness or emotional disorders. Presentations will provide increased awareness of Deaf culture issues and best practices that attendees will be able to implement and utilize in the workplace.
 
 
Tentative Schedule
Thursday June 17
            9:00 – 4:00 pm Dialectical Behavior Therapy pre-conference
            7:00 -9:00 pm              Reception and opening presentation
Friday June 18
            8:30 – 10:00                 Plenary session with keynote presenter
            10:00 -12:00                Concurrent sessions
            12:00 – 1:30                 Lunch on your own
             1:30 -5:00                   Concurrent sessions
Saturday June 19
            8:30 – 12:00                 Concurrent sessions
            12:00 – 3:00                 Lunch and closing keynote presentation
 
For more information, contact Steve Larew at SLarew@flagler.edu or 866-948-8248 VP

NAD Announces CEO Profile and Deadline

Posted in: Inside TAD, TAD Announcements by TAD Administration on January 18, 2010 | 0 Comments

NAD E-NEWS
 

The National Association of the Deaf (NAD) calls for candidates for a visionary Chief Executive Officer (CEO) who will lead broad advocacy efforts covering the breadth of a lifetime and impacting future generations in areas such as early intervention, education, employment, health care, technology, telecommunications, and youth leadership.

The NAD CEO Search Committee (CSC) has developed a CEO profile and position announcement (http://www.nad.org/sites/all/modules/civicrm/extern/url.php?u=235&qid=492755) with input from Deaf America on the character, skills, experience, and educational background for the next chief executive of the NAD. More than 80 delegates representing four NAD regions submitted input during caucuses at the National Leadership Training Conference held October 28-31, 2009 in Columbus, Ohio. Click here to view vlog: http://www.nad.org/sites/all/modules/civicrm/extern/url.php?u=236&qid=492755.

“The feedback provided by grassroots members was terrific and very helpful as we developed the CEO profile and position announcement,” said CSC Chair Kirsten Poston. “We got a clear feel for the type of leader that members want for the NAD. The challenge now is to find prospective applicants who meet this profile and have the vision to take the NAD to greater heights.”

Current CEO Nancy J. Bloch, appointed in 1992 as the first female executive director, will depart by March 31, 2011. The CSC was formed by the Board of Directors in the fall of 2009 to facilitate the search effort, which will screen candidates and recommend finalists to be considered by the Board as the next CEO of the NAD.

The NAD encourages community participation in the CEO search effort. "We invite Deaf America to help spread word that the CEO search is happening via email, blogs, as well as Facebook, Twitter and other social media outlets," said NAD President Bobbie Beth Scoggins. "We also encourage Deaf America to recommend names of prospective candidates.”

Names of prospective candidates can be submitted to CSC 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.

About the CSC
Follow the CEO search! Get updates via Twitter at @NADtweets or visit www.nad.org/ceosearch for public announcements and captioned vlogs as well as CSC member bios, search timeline, notices of public meetings, announcements and other important information.

About the NAD
The National Association of the Deaf (NAD) was established in 1880 by deaf leaders who believed in the right of the American deaf community to use sign language, to congregate on issues important to them, and to have its interests represented at the national level. These beliefs remain true to this day, with American Sign Language as a core value. As a nonprofit federation, the mission of the NAD is to preserve, protect, and promote the civil, human, and linguistic rights of deaf and hard of hearing individuals in the United States of America. The advocacy scope of the NAD is broad, covering the breadth of a lifetime and impacting future generations in the areas of early intervention, education, employment, health care, technology, telecommunications, youth leadership, and more.

–
The National Association of the Deaf

Dallas Stars: Deaf Appreciation Night – January 18, 2010

Posted in: Inside TAD, TAD Announcements, TAD President's Corner by TAD Administration on December 23, 2009 | 0 Comments

NAD in Action: 2009 in Review and Onwards to 2010

Posted in: Inside TAD, TAD Announcements by TAD Administration on December 17, 2009 | 0 Comments

*Posting from NAD Website*

Greetings!

I want to take this opportunity to extend warm wishes to you and your loved ones for this year’s holiday season and New Year, on behalf of the National Association of the Deaf (NAD) Board of Directors and staff.

This past year has been one of ups and downs. Ups in the way of accomplishments. Downs in the way of economic difficulties. We opened the year with a staff furlough and with your support were able to reinstate salaries to normal levels. As this year draws to a close, we have had to put another furlough into effect. The beating heart of the American deaf community is in dire straits, yet our resolute and dedicated staff continues to advocate for our civil rights and fiercely pursue our mission.

During this past year, the NAD has…

• Advocated against closures or budget cuts for schools for the deaf and for appropriate measures to ensure that each child’s Individualized Education Program and placement is appropriate.
   
• Met with Obama administration staff and key policymakers on civil rights, employment, education, health care, telecommunications and technology.
   
• Fought for improved VRS interoperability, integrity and quality, with real 10-digit telephone numbers and E911 access.
   
• Moved forward on accessible broadband services and Internet media advocacy efforts with Marlee Matlin as our celebrity spokesperson.
   
• Gathered support for the 21st Century Communications and Video Accessibility Act (H.R. 3101, with companion Senate bill expected to be introduced in 2010).
   
• Filed complaints in federal courts on relay services access to banks, interpreting services in health care and judicial systems, and captioning access in stadiums.
   
• Promoted youth scholarship, citizenship and leadership skills development through conferences, ambassadorship travels, school and community activities and camp experiences.
   
• Launched a new website that is easy to navigate, with tie-in to Twitter and other social networking feeds.
   
• Began formation of a media studio to generate v/blogs with emphasis on youth and diversity.
   

Much has been accomplished to date. Our gratitude goes to members, donors and volunteers who have supported the board and staff in carrying out the above and many more. While significant gains have been made, the NAD can do only so much within its limited means.

Invest in the future of our community

Looking ahead to 2010, we face weighty challenges. The economic difficulties we are all experiencing have hit us hard – with zero operating reserves due to dwindling support, we have had to borrow funds, trim expenses to the bone, and we just recently cut staff time and salaries by 20 percent between January and March – all to ensure that your civil rights are not compromised. We hope this is a temporary situation and that level of protection that you deserve is not diminished.

How can you help? By being a member. By donating. These are the two ways you can help the NAD carry out its mission to preserve, protect and promote the civil, human and linguistic rights of deaf and hard of hearing people in the USA.

Please join, if you are not already a member. If you aren’t sure, contact us. Help also by making a donation to take advantage of year-end tax savings, no matter how small or large.

With your support, the NAD can make great things happen in the New Year!
 

Bobbie Beth Scoggins
President

TAD Social/Holiday Fundraiser: December 11, 2009!

Posted in: Inside TAD, TAD Announcements by TAD Administration on December 6, 2009 | 1 Comment

Call to the 50th Biennial NAD Conference

Posted in: Inside TAD, TAD Announcements by TAD Administration on November 27, 2009 | 0 Comments

Bobbie Beth Scoggins, president of the National Association of the Deaf (NAD), issued a Call to the Conference for the 50th Biennial NAD Conference which will be held at the Philadelphia Marriott – Downtown, July 6-10, 2010 in the heart of America’s original capital, surrounded by rich revolutionary history and culture and located within eight blocks of Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell and many restaurants and stores.

Biennial NAD Conferences, held in the even numbered years, traditionally bring together more than 2,000 deaf, hard of hearing, late-deafened, deaf-blind and hearing consumers, parents, youth, professionals, educators, organizational and corporate representatives for professional development, enrichment, training, networking, governance meetings, exhibits, receptions and related evening events.

The theme of this year’s conference is, Celebrate Our Heritage. Invest in Our Future. Check out the schedule, find out who is going, learn about local attractions, and more at:
http://www.nad.org/philly

Register for the conference at:
http://www.nad.org/philly/register

Businesses and organizations interested in sponsoring, advertising or exhibiting at the 50th Biennial NAD Conference can download the forms at:

Sponsors
http://www.nad.org/philly/sponsors

Advertisers
http://www.nad.org/philly/advertise

Exhibitors
http://www.nad.org/exhibit

Deaf411 Announcement: New T-Mobile Sidekick Features

Posted in: Inside TAD, TAD Announcements by TAD Administration on November 18, 2009 | 1 Comment

New Sidekick LX 2009 features

Is attractive to deaf consumers

                    SIGNED/CAPTIONED VIDEO: http://www.deaf411online.com/sk79.html

T-Mobile has added new features to its latest Sidekick, the Sidekick LX 2009 which is attracting attention from consumers who are deaf or hard of hearing. The new features build on Sidekick’s reputation of meeting and exceeding the needs of deaf consumers in providing a deaf-friendly product.

Among the notable deaf-friendly features mentioned in a Deaf411 video announcement is a larger 3.2 inch display screen and a trackball navigator that lights up to alert you of not only just email and instant messaging (IM) messages, but also alerts from any one of the three social network sites: Twitter, MySpace and Facebook.

This new Sidekick model continues its reputable messaging capabilities with multiple email and instant messaging (IM) service options, and a spacious keyboard. An upgraded 3.2 megapixel camera with auto focus and flash, YouTube Mobile access, Flash video support and the 3G network capability are now incorporated in this new model.

                    SIGNED/CAPTIONED VIDEO: http://www.deaf411online.com/sk79.html

Reposting of Article on Seguin Film Showcase

Posted in: Inside TAD, TAD President's Corner by TAD Administration on November 16, 2009 | 2 Comments

Film showcase offering new perspective

Published November 13, 2009

SEGUIN — David Pierce is inviting all members of the community to take a “Journey Through Deaf Texas” at the Cinema for Everyone Film Showcase.

For the fifth year this mini film festival brings a new genre of movies to the Palace Theater said Pierce, CEO of Davideo Productions.

“Regular movie theaters do not show enough films about deaf people and their lives,” he said. “We fill this need with our film showcases which draw attendees from all over the state of Texas.”

The featured films are enjoyment for everyone, not just a stereotype, Pierce said who started the event in 2005.

“It’s a film showcase of independent films that are fully accessible to deaf, hard of hearing, and hearing people through the use of sign language and open captions,” said Pierce. “People can get a good glimpse of the sub-culture of deaf people and their lives through these films produced by qualified filmmakers with firsthand knowledge of the deaf community.”

Pierce, former New York resident, was no stranger to the production world when he relocated to Seguin in 2000.

The cinematic event will be featuring five films from across the country, Pierce said.

“Two of the films were produced in Indiana, one in Pennsylvania, one in New York and one in Texas,” he said.

“Journey Through Deaf Texas” is a documentary on the history of the Texas Association of the Deaf that was filmed and produced in Seguin. The production covers the progress that the organization has made since it began in the late 1800s, said Pierce who directed, edited and co-produced the film along with co-producer and writer, Stephen C. Baldwin, PhD of Texas Association of the Deaf.

“‘Journey Through Deaf Texas’ is locally produced and is about the history of the Texas Association of the Deaf since its inception in 1886,” Pierce said.

The film showcase begins on Friday at 8 p.m. with the “Legend of the Mountain Man.” Admission is $11.

“Heart of the Hydrogen Jukebox” will run Saturday, Nov. 14 at 12 p.m., admission is $7. At 3 p.m., “Journey Through Deaf Texas” will show and a donation of $3 or more to the Texas Association of the Deaf is requested. “Gerald” will show Saturday at 5 p.m. followed by “Universal Signs” at 8 p.m. Admission for both is $11.

All of the films that will be shown are equipped with sign language and open captions.

For more for more information on the films check out www.davideo.tv .

(Special thanks go to Seguin Gazette-Enterprise for granting Texas Association of the Deaf permission to post this article.)

Booking Information: Journey Through Deaf Texas

Posted in: Inside TAD, Journey Through Deaf Texas Film, TAD Announcements by TAD Administration on November 12, 2009 | 0 Comments

DOCUMENTARY FILM ON THE HISTORY OF TEXAS ASSOCIATION OF THE DEAF NOW AVAILABLE FOR THEATRICAL EXHIBITION: 

JOURNEY THROUGH DEAF TEXAS 
 
Austin, TX- The Texas Association of the Deaf (TAD) and Davideo Productions hosted its world premiere of a documentary film about TAD on June 11, 2009 at the Buena Vista Theatre located at University of Texas-San Antonio in San Antonio, Texas. 
 
JOURNEY THROUGH DEAF TEXAS chronicles the history of TAD since its inception in 1886 and its historic accomplishments that have had an impact on deaf and hard of hearing Texans. This film kicked off the 45th biennial TAD conference at the El Tropicana Riverwalk Hotel in San Antonio on June 12 & 13, 2009. 
 
This film took more than two years to produce and was made possible through a grant from the Travis County Council of the Deaf and subsequent funding from TAD. The film was co-produced, directed, and edited by David H. Pierce who has worked in the television industry for 24 years. 
 
Stephen C. Baldwin, Ph.D., past president of TAD, co-producer, writer, and researcher of the film, says that "the film is not all about politics and legislative endeavors, but it has sentimental moments about leadership, failures, triumphs, ignorance, apathy and the need to continue to work on making lives better for the Texas Deaf Community." 
 
Additional funding will be raised for further distribution of the film as well as the production of a book to accompany the film. 
 

This film is available for theatrical exhibition in your area. For more information on bookings, please contact Stephen C. Baldwin at dfsmithtx@aol.com.

DAVIDEO PRODUCTIONS HOSTS FIFTH DEAF FILM SHOWCASE IN SEGUIN, TEXAS

Posted in: Inside TAD, TAD Announcements by TAD Administration on October 15, 2009 | 1 Comment

—————–
 
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
 
October 14, 2009
 
Media Contact:
David H. Pierce
davideo@satx.rr.com
 
DAVIDEO PRODUCTIONS HOSTS FIFTH DEAF FILM SHOWCASE IN SEGUIN, TEXAS
 
Seguin, Texas- Davideo Productions is hosting its fifth showcase of Deaf films on November 13 & 14, 2009. This event, CINEMA FOR EVERYONE, presents films to the Deaf Community and the general public in Seguin, Texas at the historic Palace Theatre on 314 South Austin Street. Past events have successfully drawn hundreds of people from all over the State of Texas as well as out-of-state visitors.
 
CINEMA FOR EVERYONE is a venue created to showcase independent films. All films are in sign language with open captions which are fully accessible to Deaf, Hard of Hearing, and Hearing audiences. David H. Pierce of Davideo Productions says “we serve as a regular theatrical exhibitor to give filmmakers a place to show their latest productions and get a share of the box office receipts." The fifth showcase has enlisted the involvement of established companies around the country such as Universal Signs Productions in Pennsylvania, ASL Films in Indiana, and National Technical Institute for the Deaf in New York.
 
The November 2009 showcase is sponsored by the Texas Association of the Deaf (TAD), a 501(c)3 non-profit consumer organization advocating the rights of Deaf and hard of hearing Texans.
 
JOURNEY THROUGH DEAF TEXAS, a highly visual documentary about the history and legislative accomplishments of Deaf Texans since 1886, is one of the highlights of the film showcase. Co-produced, researched and written by Stephen C. Baldwin, Ph.D., the film had its world premiere in San Antonio on June 11, 2009 at the Buena Vista Theater at University of Texas in San Antonio which garnered positive response. Seguin is proud to be screening the film at the Palace Theatre as it was co-produced and directed by local Seguin filmmaker David H. Pierce. Donations at the box office for the JOURNEY screening will go to TAD to help with film distribution and publication of a book on its history.
 
The film showcase will host the Texas premiere of UNIVERSAL SIGNS with Anthony Natale (MR. HOLLAND’S OPUS), Sabrina Lloyd (SPORTS NIGHT), Margot Kidder (SUPERMAN), Robert Picardo (STAR TREK: VOYAGER), Lupe Ontiveros (REAL WOMEN HAVE CURVES), Deanne Bray (SUE THOMAS: FBEye) and Ashlyn Sanchez (CRASH). Produced by Catherine Miller, this film portrays a Deaf artist who becomes a prisoner of his own mind. It has won awards from the Philadelphia Film Festival and the Feel Good Film Festival in Hollywood, CA.
 
Another Texas premiere is THE HEART OF THE HYDROGEN JUKEBOX by Miriam Nathan Lerner of the National Technical Institute for the Deaf. This documentary tracks the development of poetry in American Sign Language over the years through archival footage. Rochester, New York is a place where Hearing and Deaf poetry occurs side by side with the help of interpreters who provide equal access for both audiences. Featured poets in the film are Bernard Bragg, Robert Panara, Ella Mae Lentz, Eric Malzkuhn, Patrick Graybill, Dorothy "Dot" Miles, Clayton Valli, Allen Ginsberg, Peter Cook, and Debbie Rennie.
 
Two films produced by Mark G. Wood of ASL Films will be screened. GERALD is about a young man who discovers he has a Deaf autistic grandfather and tries to make a connection to him and ends up with a whirlwind of twists of fate. Performers are Andy Vasnick, Russell Harvard (THERE WILL BE BLOOD), and Micaela Paulone. LEGEND OF A MOUNTAIN MAN portrays children sent to a Montana ranch who find themselves encountering a creature that has never been seen before. Performers are Sean Berdy, Tyler Berdy, Marisa Ann King, Freda Norman (ST. ELSEWHERE), Howie Seago (STAR TREK: NEXT GENERATION), Chuck Baird and Scott Berdy.
 
This event is also sponsored by the University of Texas-Austin Department of Linguistics’ American Sign Language program. Student interns of Deaf actress and filmmaker Franky Ramont Giacona will be on hand to assist in facilitating the communication needs of Deaf and Hearing attendees.
 
Late night socialization after the screenings will be held on Friday and Saturday night at The Oak Bar on 110 East Gonzales Street in Seguin. Pierce says “when people come to historic Seguin, not only can they enjoy watching films but also joining in the camaraderie of the patrons at these social events. It makes the trip to Seguin worthwhile. Hope to see all of you soon!”
 
Davideo Productions is a motion picture film & broadcast television production, syndication and consulting firm based in Seguin, Texas.
 
For more information about the films and the schedules, please visit www.davideo.tv.

FCC Seeks Comment on Additional Opportunities to Educate Consumers

Posted in: Inside TAD, TAD Announcements by TAD Administration on October 9, 2009 | 0 Comments

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is seeking information from the public that can shed light on the general state of awareness about the purchase of communications services and opportunities to improve consumer welfare. 

On August 28, 2009, the FCC issued a Notice of Inquiry on whether there are additional opportunities to protect and empower Amer ican consumers by ensuring sufficient access to meaningful information about communications services. The services include wireline and wireless telephone, broadband and subscription video services (TV provided by cable, satellite, and phone companies). We invite the public to file comments in this proceeding to ensure that consumers have the information they need to make informed decisions in the communications marketplace. We encourage you to share this opportunity to comment with other interested parties.
 

The FCC’s approach to information disclosure issues has traditionally focused on the formatting of consumer’s telephone bills. The Notice goes beyond that and asks questions about the information available to consumers at each stage of the purchasing process for a variety of communications services including: (1) choosing a provider, (2) choosing a service plan, (3) managing use of the service plan, and (4) deciding whether and when to switch an existing provider or plan for all communications services.
 

The Notice also seeks particular comment on cost-effective best practices in information disclosure from within the communications sector – as well as examples from other areas such as nutrition labeling on food products, fuel efficiency for automobiles, and rates and fees for credit cards.
 

With respect to all the issues discussed in the Notice, we seek comment on whether consumers with disabilities are being well served by the information about communications services that is currently available to them, and the manner it is being provided to them.
 

A copy of the Notice of Inquiry can be found on the FCC’s website at: http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/FCC-09-68A1.pdf To request materials in accessible formats for people with disabilities (Braille, large print, electronic files, audio format), send an email to fcc504@fcc.gov or call the Consumer and Governmental Affairs Bureau at (202) 418-0530 (voice) or (202) 418-0432 (TTY).
 

Comments in this proceeding are due by October 13, 2009 and replies are due by October 28, 2009. Comments may be filed electronically using the Internet by accessing the Electronic Comment Filing System (ECFS): http://www.fcc.gov/cgb/ecfs/ or the Federal eRulemaking Portal: http://www.regulations.gov Detailed instructions for filing comments can also be found in the Notice of Inquiry.
 

Consumers may also file comments through the FCC’s simplified ECFS Express System at: http://gullfoss2.fcc.gov/ecfs/Upload/. Select "Consumer Information and Disclosure – Docket 09-158" and then click on "Continue" to submit your comments.

 
For more information visit the FCCs Web page on the NOI at http://www.fcc.gov/cgb/disclosure.html.
 

Deaf411 Announcement

Posted in: Inside TAD by TAD Administration on September 28, 2009 | 0 Comments

Deaf411 Announcement
"Make Videophone Calls like a Champ!"
 

     NEW YORK CITY (Deaf411) – 16 September 2009 – A new internet video report released by Deaf411 called “Make Videophone calls like a Champ” shares insights on preparing for a successful videophone conversation. It is the second report in the “Deaf Living Solutions” series.
 

With high speed internet, a laptop with webcam, or a videophone device, videophone communication has become a highly desirable communication option for people who use sign language to communicate instead of the traditional text telephone.
 

With an estimated 100,000 – 200,000 videophone units currently in use by sign language users and widespread availability of laptops with built-in webcams, videophones are used to communicate directly with other people in sign language, and to communicate with hearing people through the use of a video relay service where a video interpreter translates from sign to spoken language.

     MAKE VIDEOPHONE CALLS LIKE A CHAMP
     ‘Deaf Living Solutions’ internet video report
     http://www.deaf411online.com/vp79.html

 

Deaf Awareness Week: Houston

Posted in: Inside TAD, TAD Announcements by TAD Administration on September 21, 2009 | 0 Comments

Deaf Awareness Week Celebrates at Steak Kountry Buffet

                           Date:          Friday, September 25, 2009

                           Time:          6:00 pm to 10:00 pm

                           Location:   1010 Antoine Drive at Katy Fwy.

                                              Houston, TX 77055-7607

                                              (713) 682-8994

Deaf Empowerment and Awareness Fair

Houston, TX

                          Date:                 Saturday, September 26, 2009

                  Time:                10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

                          Admission:       FREE

                          Location:          Woodhaven Baptist Deaf Church

                                                    9920 Long Point

                                                    Houston, Texas  77055

Drawing for Door Prizes

Short Performances during the Fair

For more information contact:  Kathy Walters, Chairperson 

                                                     Email:  DAWHouston@Gmail.com

Cindi Nagy chosen as Four-Year Board Director

Posted in: Inside TAD, TAD President's Corner by TAD Administration on September 15, 2009 | 2 Comments

Texas Association of the Deaf president Paul Rutowski announces that the TAD board has chosen Cindi Nagy of Dallas as a four-year board director.  Ms Nagy replaces Dr. Steve Baldwin who was reassigned as the board secretary for the next two years. Dr. Baldwin replaces Betty Bounds who resigned in order to focus on an increasing number of contracts as an educational consultant across the country.  President Rutowski expresses sincere appreciation for Ms. Bounds’ secretarial work since June 13, especially writing several letters, reports and minutes from the recent TAD board meeting on August 13 at a productive retreat that resulted in a two-year vision and numerous essential goals.

Ms. Nagy is a longtime para-educator at the Stonewall Jackson Elementary School with the Dallas Regional Day School Program for the Deaf.  At the Dallas Association of the Deaf she served in the capacity as social secretary, board director and secretary in the last few years.  It should be pointed out that Ms. Nagy volunteered several times to work the TAD booth with enthusiasm at the last two TSD homecomings and at other events. 

This is her first stint as a TAD officer and she is very excited about joining the illustrious TAD board.   Nagy comments excitedly, “I am looking forward to working with a great TAD team.”  With her children all grown up, Ms. Nagy hopes to obtain a B.A. within the next five years.  Her goal as a board director is to bring in more new members, especially young people and people of color. 

President Rutowski has this to say about the newest TAD board member: “I‘m excited to have her on board.  She will be a great contributor to our fellow Texans in the next 4 years of her term. I look forward to her energy, commitment and spirit of volunteerism. Not least, on behalf of the Board, I welcome her!”

 TAD was established in 1886 and still continues to safeguard the rights of deaf and hard of hearing Texans.  To keep that given goal alive, TAD recently held its 45^th biennial conference in San Antonio.  For more information about TAD or view its conference photos, just go to our newly renovated website at www.deaftexas.org.

Media contact: TAD secretary Steve Baldwin at steve@deaftexas.org or dfsmithtx@aol.com. 

NAD Announces Retirement of Anita B. Farb and New Hire

Posted in: Inside TAD, TAD Announcements by TAD Administration on September 10, 2009 | 0 Comments

NAD E-newsletter
 

 (Anita Farb (center) speaks at the 1st NAD NLTC in Austin)

The National Association of the Deaf (NAD) announces the retirement of Anita B. Farb, Director of Communications and Operations, with deep appreciation for her commitment to NAD and the American deaf and hard of hearing community over the last 24 years.
 

One of the longest-serving staff members, Farb first joined the NAD in 1985 as a part-time employee answering phones two days a week, and was promoted to increasingly accountable positions over the years.  As second in command, she was responsible for communicating the work of the NAD to constituents and the general public through various channels, including the NADmag and website.  With the support of her team, she successfully managed the association’s transition from traditional print media and marketing to today’s electronic and digital processes. In addition to duties managing NAD publications and administrative
operations, she oversaw events planning for biennial national conferences and related activities. She also received the Chief Executive Officer’s Award in 1992 and 2008.
 

“A veritable gem, Anita has been the major pulse in the life of the NAD. When I served as interim executive director, she was always available and ready to act whenever needed,” said Mervin D. Garretson, Past President. “All through the years she has been loyal, productive and supportive, and could well be called Mrs. NAD, or Ms., if she would rather!  Her blood is intermingled with that of
the NAD – we all love her.”
 

 “Anita has been a bastion at the NAD, always committed to the highest professional standards. The stature of the American deaf and hard of hearing community has skyrocketed to new heights, thanks to her tireless and dedicated
enthusiasm in furthering the mission of our organization,” said Nancy J. Bloch, Chief Executive Officer. “She will leave tremendous shoes to fill, and she holds a very special place in my heart.  I will greatly miss her passion and the many
wonderful times we have shared during all these years.”
 

“The NAD has achieved so much and I am honored to have been a part of it. I feel privileged to have had the opportunity to work with a great deaf leader and role model in Nancy,” said Farb. “My world has revolved around the NAD for so many years, and I am confident that we are in great hands with my successor. The NAD can count on my support as I move on to pursue new interests in retirement.”
 

In her stead, the NAD has hired Shane H. Feldman as its Chief Operating Officer. He was previously employed at the NAD for over five years where he served as Coordinator of Marketing and Communications as well as Editor of the NADmag, under the supervision of Farb.  Since then, he worked as a consultant for a federal contracting firm and as sales director at a video relay communications company. He received his Master’s degree in Management with focus on nonprofit financial management from University of Maryland University College and Bachelor’s degree in Professional and Technical Communications from Rochester Institute of Technology.
 

In his new role, Feldman will direct all aspects of the NAD under the oversight of Bloch, who will place greater focus on fundraising and donor relations.  His work also includes planning for next year’s 50th Biennial NAD Conference in
Philadelphia, PA.
 

“I am honored to follow in the footsteps of Anita who was my mentor,” said Feldman. “The NAD has achieved so much with so little throughout the years. A solid strategy and dedicated focus on maximizing resources will enable the NAD to step up its efforts to protect the civil, human and linguistic rights of deaf and hard of hearing Americans. With the support of our staff and community, we will achieve this objective.”
 

“We are thrilled to have Shane back on board in a leadership role and we look forward to exciting changes and growth opportunities that lay ahead,” said Bloch.  “Anita has planned to retire for some time, so with Shane’s availability, she decided that the time was right. I appreciate her regard for the future of the NAD, and more so, the benefit of her continuing connection with the NAD as a volunteer and consultant, as we move forward.”
 

“Anita B. Farb has been a wonderful support to the NAD Board, and we will miss her greatly,” said Bobbie Beth Scoggins, President. “Stay tuned for announcement of a special benefit event to honor and celebrate her work with the NAD, open to all who want to wish her well as she enters a new chapter in her life journey.”
 

–
The National Association of the Deaf
8630 Fenton Street, Suite 820
Silver Spring, MD 20910-3819
United States

NAD Board Announces CEO Search

Posted in: Inside TAD, TAD Announcements by TAD Administration on August 20, 2009 | 0 Comments

NAD E-newsletter

The Board of Directors of the National Association of the Deaf (NAD) announces that it has begun search efforts for a successor to Chief Executive Officer Nancy J. Bloch, in preparation for her departure on March 31, 2011. Appointed in 1992 as the first female director, Bloch also serves as ex officio member of the Board.
 

“The Board accepts Nancy J. Bloch’s decision with immeasurable appreciation for her leadership and impact on both the organization and our community,” said NAD President Bobbie Beth Scoggins. “We will sorely miss her passion and wisdom when the time comes for her departure. Her collaborative style and extraordinary network of relationships has advanced our mission and positioned the NAD on so many fronts. Thanks to her leadership, we are fiscally solvent amid these turbulent economic times and looking to the many opportunities that lay ahead. With her foresight, we look forward to a seamless CEO search and transition process.”
 

“I’m honored to have had the opportunity to lead the NAD for nearly two decades. It has been an incredible journey, and I am proud of our dedicated staff and the many partnerships that we have built, as well as the many whose hearts of gold have sustained our work,” said Bloch. “It is an opportune time for me to step down, and with this advance notice, we can all be assured of a thorough search and ultimately, a smooth changeover to the next person who will lead the NAD into the next phase of its growth. When it comes time for my departure, I shall remain committed to supporting the NAD and all who are involved in furthering its mission.”
 

An internal succession planning committee has been formed by the Board of Directors to facilitate the search effort, which includes the formation of a CEO Search Committee (CSC) by the fall of 2009. The CSC will be charged with all aspects of a search to identify persons to be considered by the Board of Directors for the next CEO of the organization. The Board of Directors and the CSC are committed to taking steps to guarantee that the search for the next CEO of the NAD is fair and transparent.
 

Pertinent information concerning the CEO search will be posted at www.nad.org/ceosearch as the process unfolds. This webpage will include links to the charge from the Board of Directors to the CSC, the timeline for the search, the CSC roster, public announcements, frequently asked questions and the responses, and notices of upcoming public meetings. The CSC, once formed, will welcome comments from membership and the community. Appropriate emails, and their responses, sent to the CSC will be added to the frequently asked questions section on a periodic basis.
 

“There is only one Nancy J. Bloch, so she is irreplaceable,” said Scoggins. “We look forward to the wisdom of the CEO Search Committee in recommending to the Board of Directors the most qualified candidates who have similar leadership, wisdom and passion from which we can choose a leader to take the torch and carry on the organizational change process that the NAD has already begun.”
 

The National Association of the Deaf (NAD) was established in 1880 by deaf leaders who believed in the right of the American deaf community to use sign language, to congregate on issues important to them, and to have its interests represented at the national level. These beliefs remain true to this day, with American Sign Language as a core value. As a nonprofit federation, the mission of the NAD is to preserve, protect, and promote the civil, human, and linguistic rights of deaf and hard of hearing individuals in the United States of America. The advocacy scope of the NAD is broad, covering the breadth of a lifetime and impacting future generations in the areas of early intervention, education, employment, health care, technology,
telecommunications, youth leadership, and more.
 

–
The National Association of the Deaf
8630 Fenton Street, Suite 820
Silver Spring, MD 20910-3819
United States
 

DEAF411 releases “Deaf-Friendly Cities in the U.S.” report

Posted in: Inside TAD, TAD Announcements by TAD Administration on August 13, 2009 | 0 Comments

 DEAF411 releases "Deaf-Friendly Cities in the U.S." report

     NEW YORK CITY (Deaf411) - (11 August 2009) - Deaf411, a deaf marketing and
public relations company, has released the final report and results of a
year-long survey on which cities are considered “deaf friendly.” The final
report, which lists 20 U.S. cities, was released today and is now available for
public viewing. 

This “Deaf Friendly Cities” report includes a narrative of a selected city from each
of four U.S. regions, lists several community resources, and photos representing a
variety of situations that are considered “deaf friendly” to deaf consumers or
travelers.

"While research for this report should not be considered scientific," a Deaf411
representative explains, "this sampling of consumers with significant hearing loss
who depend primarily on sign language provides solid criteria for evaluating cities
for accessibility from a deaf friendly perspective."

     DEAF-FRIENDLY CITIES IN THE U.S.
     Video & Free Online Report -
     http://www.deaf411online.com/76.html

Booking Information: Journey Through Deaf Texas

Posted in: Inside TAD, Journey Through Deaf Texas Film, TAD Announcements by TAD Administration on July 25, 2009 | 0 Comments

DOCUMENTARY FILM ON THE HISTORY OF TEXAS ASSOCIATION OF THE DEAF NOW AVAILABLE FOR THEATRICAL EXHIBITION: 

JOURNEY THROUGH DEAF TEXAS 
 
Austin, TX- The Texas Association of the Deaf (TAD) and Davideo Productions hosted its world premiere of a documentary film about TAD on June 11, 2009 at the Buena Vista Theatre located at University of Texas-San Antonio in San Antonio, Texas. 
 
JOURNEY THROUGH DEAF TEXAS chronicles the history of TAD since its inception in 1886 and its historic accomplishments that have had an impact on deaf and hard of hearing Texans. This film kicked off the 45th biennial TAD conference at the El Tropicana Riverwalk Hotel in San Antonio on June 12 & 13, 2009. 
 
This film took more than two years to produce and was made possible through a grant from the Travis County Council of the Deaf and subsequent funding from TAD. The film was co-produced, directed, and edited by David H. Pierce who has worked in the television industry for 24 years. 
 
Stephen C. Baldwin, Ph.D., past president of TAD, co-producer, writer, and researcher of the film, says that "the film is not all about politics and legislative endeavors, but it has sentimental moments about leadership, failures, triumphs, ignorance, apathy and the need to continue to work on making lives better for the Texas Deaf Community." 
 
Additional funding will be raised for further distribution of the film as well as the production of a book to accompany the film. 
 

This film is available for theatrical exhibition in your area. For more information on bookings, please contact Stephen C. Baldwin at dfsmithtx@aol.com.

TAD Conference Summary

Posted in: 2009 TAD Conference: San Antonio, Inside TAD by TAD Administration on July 12, 2009 | 0 Comments

247 Attended the 45th Biennial TAD Confab in SA

The registration committee reported that 247 people attended the 45th Texas Association of the Deaf Biennial Conference at Holiday Inn’s El Tropicano Riverwalk Hotel from June 11 to 13, 2009 in San Antonio. The same hotel hosted the TAD conference in 1977 during which time the first Miss Deaf Texas Pageant took place, Kathy Weldon won the crown, and Larry Evans was elected to his first term as President. Mario Montalvo chaired the event. Incidentally Evans, Weldon and Montalvo gathered with other attendees for a group photo in the hotel lobby immediately after the general meeting and elections as did the attendees at the recent June 2009 Conference. The 2009 Conference did not hold a Miss Deaf Texas Pageant.

There were 21 exhibitors, which represent four VRS providers, state agencies, educational programs, interpreting services, assistive devices, and two art-related booths, especially Viva De ‘Via, a collection of Deaf-themed art works. Sponsoring the conference were a total of 11 organizations and corporations, which enhanced the quality of the event, especially during the economic downturn.

The speakers, keynoters, workshop presenters and panelists were all sponsored by a variety of groups such as ZVRS, Lamar University, DARS, and Texas School for the Deaf. Claire Bugen, Chris Wagner and Paul Rutowski teamed up as collaborating keynoters to take on the conference theme of “Change, Challenge, Commitment: Moving Forward Together!” Laura Davis, Stella Egbert, John Evans, Michael Wynne, Mark Gobble, Dr. Alan L. Marcus, and Elizabeth “Libby” Pollard also impressed the participants with their workshop presentations. On the basis of the post-conference evaluation forms collected, such speakers, panel discussions, and other events were highly rated, garnering 4.5 stars out of a possible 5

From the beginning of the world film premiere of “Journey Through Deaf Texas” on June 11 to the awards/banquet/dance night of June 13, the conference kept nearly every TAD member and guest busy, inspired, entertained and well fed. New officers and board members for 2009 to 2011 comprised of youth, wisdom, experience and talents. Paul Rutowski is the new president who is joined by Katherine Murch as newest board member and Betty Bounds as secretary. Incumbents are Chris Kearney as Vice President, Steve Baldwin as a four-year board member, Larry Evans as a two-year director, and John Mills as treasurer.

Conference core team members were chair Karen Kirby, budget chair Sabrina Dannheim, program chair Julie Grisham, exhibit chair Leslie Walter, and CEU chair Anne Hoscheit. In addition to countless volunteers from Austin to San Antonio, members of SA Deaf Awareness Week also assisted with the Sorenson sponsored film reception and conference events. We appreciate the volunteers who have always been the heart and soul of the TAD conferences.

The next conference will take place sometime in June of 2011 in Corpus Christi, which will be a concurrent one with Texas Society of Interpreters for the Deaf. TSID president-elect Rita Lee and TAD president Paul Rutowski will eventually appoint co-chairs of the conference this fall. Watch for further details on the TAD website www:deaftexas.org.

Texas Association of the Deaf is a 501 3 (c) non-profit advocacy organization that was established in 1886 to safeguard the rights of the Deaf and hard of hearing Texans. TAD is affiliated with the National Association of the Deaf and other disability organizations. Seasonal newsletters are available to people who join TAD for only $20 to $25 for up to two years toward the next conference. In between conferences, TAD keeps a peeled eye on Texas legislation, state agencies, educational programs and situations whenever the civil and human rights are violated and communication access is denied.

For further information about this posting or TAD in general, send your inquiries to Betty@deaftexas.org.

TAD Conference 2007 A Huge Success!

Posted in: 2007 TAD Conference: Arlington by TAD Administration on June 27, 2007 | 0 Comments

THE TAD CONFERENCE 2007 A HUGE SUCCESS!!

The Texas Association of the Deaf Conference, held at the Arlington Hilton, and spearheaded by Kathy Walters, chairperson, assistant Byron Bridges, and her hardworking committee, plus many volunteers, was a huge success with 190 people in attendance.

All of the presentations were greatly enjoyed by all. And thanks to the following, Helene Cohen Gilbert, Faye Kuo, Heather Bise, John Cage, Gertie Galloway, Glenn Anderson, Bobbie Beth Scoggins, Tim Rarus, and Libby Pollard for their fantastic presentations!

Friday night’s President’s Reception, which was sponsored by SPRINT and TX RELAY, was enjoyed by everyone along with an auction of some of Chuck Baird’s prints, some bottles of wine, and a Sante Fe blanket made by Gertie Galloway. Nearly $400 was raised for the TAD History video/book project.

During Saturday’s general meeting, with Libby Pollard as our parliamentarian, the following were members elected the following to serve on the 2007 – 2009 TAD Board: Steven Baldwin, President; Cathy Edler Ashley, Vice-President; Marianne Sasseen, Secretary; John Mills, Treasurer; and Christopher Kearney, Board Member. And both Gertie Galloway and Larry Evans will remain as the board directors.

During Saturday night’s banquet, Texan style , everyone watched a song given by the new Miss Deaf Texas Katie Murch of Corpus Christi, and a performance about global warming by Mr. and Miss Deaf Teen, Bejo Goodridge and Toj Mora of TSD. Giving the keynote address was Dr. Bobbie Beth Scoggins, president of the National Associaiton of the Deaf.

TAD award winners were as follows: Rakia Musa and Laura Kowalik, Education Award; Fred Newberry, Volunteer Services Award; Outstanding Member Award, David Pierce; Grant Laird, Jr., Golden Hand Award; and Distinguished Service Award, Kathy Walters.

In addition to SPRINT and Relay Texas, other primary sponsors were Texas School for the Deaf, Texas Woman’s University, Lamar University, Office of Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services of DARS, CSD of Texas, CSDVRS, LLC, Goodrich Center for the Deaf, Dallas Association of the Deaf, and IP Relay of Verizon.

To see the slide show of the 44th Biennial TAD Conference, courtesy of Crazy Tech via Grant Laird, Jr., go to http://deaftexas.org/wp/conference/

TAD Conference 2007 Vlog

Posted in: 2007 TAD Conference: Arlington by TAD Administration on May 30, 2007 | 0 Comments

ASL Video – Approx 3:20 Minutes Long

TAD Member Grant Laird Jr talked about upcoming Texas Assocation of the Deaf Conference 2007.

Date: June 21-23, 2007

Location: Arlington, Texas at Hilton Hotel near Ballpark Stadium

For more information, go to www.deaftexas.org and click conference

Any questions, please email Kathy Walters at Laddykat127@aol.com

Call for Nominations for TAD Awards!

Posted in: 2007 TAD Conference: Arlington by TAD Administration on February 6, 2007 | Comments Off

For the 2007 Texas Association of the Deaf Conference Nominations for Awards and Recognition, TAD announces three categories:

1) The Distinguished Service Award: To be given to a person whose voluntary services have made a significant cultural, artistic and social impact on the lives of deaf and hard of hearing Texans from 2005 to 2007.

2) The Golden Hand Award: To be given to a person or organization which has been actively involved in activities resulting in the overall betterment of deaf and hard of hearing people in general from 2005 to 2007. This is a joint NAD and TAD award.

3) The Education Award: To be given to a person who actively engaged in the education of the deaf, whether in an administrative, supervisory, instructional, or guidance professional capacity, whose work has contributed significantly to the field in the last two years.

Nominations may be emailed directly to Steve Baldwin at dfsmithtx@aol.com. At least three letters or messages of support for the candidate is required for all nominations. Deadline for the award nomination is April 30, 2007. The winners will be announced at the 44th Biennial TAD Conference banquet on June 24 at Arlington Hilton. Contact Steve Baldwin at the given email address if any questions.

Please go to the TAD website: www.deaftexas.org for information about the TAD exciting conference.

Contact persons: Steve Baldwin at dfsmithtx@aol.com for nominations and Kathy Walters at laddykat127@aol.com for conference information.

TAD Conference Announcement

Posted in: 2007 TAD Conference: Arlington by TAD Administration on December 23, 2006 | Comments Off