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
Posted in: TAD Announcements by TAD Administration on March 3, 2010 | 1 Comment
NAD E-newsletter
Greetings from NAD Youth Programs!!
Got summer plans!!?
Consider NAD Youth Leadership Camp (YLC) in Stayton, Oregon!!
The NAD YLC is a sensational four-week summer camp program for deaf and hard of
hearing high school students. The camp provides campers the ability to develop
their scholarship, leadership, and citizenship qualities in nature environment.
Being outdoor has an amazing way of inspiring campers. Campers experience
self-discovery, learn about self-identity, confidence, and self-esteem and
understand the significance of leadership development.
Application Deadlines -
Camper Application – March 19th
Staff Application – March 26th
Please apply online at www.nad.org/2010ylc. Please share this with your
students, colleagues, friends, and family.
I hope to see you this summer!!
Best,
Allie Rice
NAD Youth Programs Coordinator
–
The National Association of the Deaf
8630 Fenton Street, Suite 820
Silver Spring, MD 20910-3819
United States
Posted in: Inside TAD, TAD Announcements, TAD President's Corner, The Deaf Texan Newsletter by TAD Administration on February 19, 2010 | 1 Comment
.jpg)
Texas Association of the Deaf, Inc.
P.O. Box 1982
Manchaca, Texas 78652
Media Contact:
Steve Baldwin
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.
.jpg)
Tim Jaech, new editor of The Deaf Texan, is
already developing his vision for the quality
newsletter of the Texas Association of the Deaf
Posted in: Inside TAD, TAD Announcements by TAD Administration on February 12, 2010 | 0 Comments
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
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
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
Posted in: Inside TAD, TAD Announcements, TAD President's Corner by TAD Administration on December 23, 2009 | 0 Comments
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…
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
Posted in: Inside TAD, TAD Announcements by TAD Administration on December 6, 2009 | 1 Comment
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
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
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.
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.
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.
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
Food & Drinks will be sold by
Woodhaven Baptist Deaf Church.
For more information contact: Kathy Walters, Chairperson
Email: DAWHouston@Gmail.com
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
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
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
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.
Posted in: TAD Announcements by TAD Administration on March 2, 2009 | 0 Comments
Click image to view bigger version
Posted in: TAD Announcements by TAD Administration on February 1, 2009 | 1 Comment
TEXAS DEAF ISSUES LISTSERV LAUNCHED
In the past, the Symposium on Deafness helped identify critical issues affecting D/deaf and hard of hearing Texans which helped determine legislative priorities in the Texas Legislature. This was a great undertaking (both financially and manpower-wise) to have these conferences every few years.
With today’s rapidly changing world, the Internet has helped make communication much easier through email, blogs, vlogs, and listservs. With the 81st Legislature now in session, a listserv focusing on our critical issues was launched on January 29, 2009 by David H. Pierce. Pierce currently moderates 2 other listservs on captioning and filmmaking.
To join, please state your name, your organizational affiliation/membership, and Texas city you live in so we can assemble a good group of people to work collectively together in this online think tank. The link to the listserv is:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/TexasDeafIssues/
Posted in: TAD Announcements by TAD Administration on January 11, 2009 | 0 Comments
View videoT-Mobile “unlimited data plan” attractive to deaf users of wireless devices
NEW YORK CITY (Deaf411) (1/10/09) –
An unlimited data plan is a key factor and is attractive to deaf consumers when it comes to
electing wireless devices for immediate access to communication anywhere and anyplace.
The unlimited data plan from T-Mobile offers unlimited personal email, unlimited web browsing,
text and instant messaging.
Wireless devices offer increased communication options and with the unlimited data plan, makes it easier for Deaf and hearing people to communicate with each other using text SMS, IM, and email or over Internet Relay.
Getting a wireless device is a simple process. To get helpful tips, Fuse Communications, a T-Mobile authorized dealer, has details, including a Pager Comparison chart.
FOR SIGNED VIDEO RELEASE, PLEASE GO TO http://www.deaf411online.com/80.html (not clickable)
Posted in: TAD Announcements by TAD Administration on December 30, 2008 | 0 Comments
National Association of the Deaf
Last Opportunity to Give in 2008 to NAD
Dear Valued Supporter,
This is an urgent and heartfelt appeal for year-end support to enable the work
of the NAD to continue in the New Year.
Your year-end gift is very important. The NAD begins the New Year under
extremely difficult financial circumstances. Please see Important Message from
the NAD President (under Latest News at www.nad.org), which describes cutbacks
to go into effect January 1st.
This past year we accomplished quite a lot, with your support; these will be
outlined in the January-February 2009 issue of the NADmag (see also
www.nad.org/NADinAction).
As we prepare for 2009, your year-end gift will help the NAD accomplish
important goals, such as:
** Passage of the 21st Century Communications and Video Accessibility Act,
through the Coalition for Accessible Technology (COAT) which we co-founded;
** Captioning of movies, videos via the Internet, and cell phones;
** Improvement of the Certified Deaf Interpreter (CDI) testing system, through
joint efforts with Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID) and other groups;
** Continued push for expansion of Early Hearing Detection and Intervention
(EHDI) efforts to incorporate ASL, with the involvement of individuals and
advocacy groups nationwide;
** Release of Air Carrier Accessibility Act (ACAA) regulations specific to the
needs of deaf and hard of hearing passengers, by the U.S. Department of
Transportation;
** Working closely with the new Obama-Biden administration to ensure that our
broad-based policy issues are acted upon;
** Handling of thousands of information requests each month about the American
deaf community, educational and communication options, parental resources, legal
rights, opportunities for youth development, accessibility in the workplace and
so forth;
** Ratification of the United Nations Convention on Rights of Persons with
Disabilities (CPRD) by the Obama-Biden administration; and much more!
Your support, especially at this time of financial crisis for the NAD, enables
us to soldier on, working on your behalf. Your year-end gift helps the NAD to be
ever-watchful, protecting the civil, human, and linguistic rights of the
American deaf and hard of hearing community.
Giving is easy; please visit www.nad.org/donate (http://www.nad.org/donate) to
make an online gift, or download the PDF donation form to send your gift via
mail or fax. The NAD is a classified as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization; all
donations are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law.
Thank you for your generous support, as always. The NAD Board of Directors and I
wish you a healthy and happy New Year,
Nancy J. Bloch
Chief Executive Officer
Anita Farb (middle) and Nancy Bloch (right) last April at NLTC in Austin
Posted in: TAD Announcements by TAD Administration on December 10, 2008 | 1 Comment
December 13, 2008
10:00 AM in South Austin (Mopac / William Cannon)
The Texas Association of the Deaf (TAD) and Life Time Fitness agreed to join in a healthy partnership. There will be a special orientation and tour for Austin Deaf Community, including current and past TAD members on December 13 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM the South Austin Life Time Fitness facility, which is located east of Mopac and south of William Cannon. First time members of Life Time Fitness will only have to pay the initial monthly membership fee of $50 and no enrollment fee for 30 days. TAD already has more than the five members for minimum corporate requirement for the special introductory rate. Not only will an interpreter be provided for the meeting, there will be a drawing for five prizes, including 3 gift cards and 2 gym bags for those in attendance. No reservation necessary, so come to the presentation and get a jump start on your New Year’s resolution by getting in shape at Life Time Fitness.
Although the introductory event takes place in South Austin Saturday, there are 15 other Life Time facilities across Texas, especially in San Antonio, Houston and Dallas where TAD members in those cities can take advantage of the special rate anytime until December 31. For further information on TAD and Life Time Fitness partnership, contact TAD President Steve Baldwin at Steve@deaftexas.org.
South Austin Life Time Fitness facility has a special deal and free door prizes for TAD members on December 13 at 10:00 AM.
Posted in: TAD Announcements by TAD Administration on November 11, 2008 | 0 Comments
When Cathy Edler-Ashley of Dallas submitted her resignation as vice president of the Texas Association of the Deaf (TAD) two weeks ago, the TAD board quickly took the necessary action as stipulated by the TAD bylaws.
Christopher Kearney, another Dallasite, agreed to replace Ms. Edler-Ashley as vice president so that TAD can continue the major review of the bylaws. Prior to the board selection, Mr. Kearney served as a six-year director of TAD, which is now vacant.
The TAD board is pleased with the change and voted to defer the selection of the new director to the membership during the 2009 TAD conference in San Antonio. We are only several months away from the 45th biennial conference, thus the reason for letting the members select the new director who will serve four more years for TAD.
In a letter to Ms. Edler-Ashley, President Steve Baldwin wrote, “Your board colleagues join me in wishing you the best of luck in all your endeavors. Not least, we will miss you, your company, your Packer devotion and your proactive leadership.” Ms. Elder-Ashley is moving back to her home state Wisconsin to take care of her family.
TAD is pleased to receive several interested inquiries about the vacant board position. We hope the same kind of en thusiasm and support will translate into more candidates for the 2009-2011 administration at Holiday Inn’s El Tropicano in San Antonio.
TAD is a non-profit 501 (3) C organization that was established in 1886. There are about 650 members, including online E-newsletter subscribers at the end of 2008. TAD is an advocacy state association and is affiliated with the National Association of the Deaf and the Coalition of Texans with Disabilities. TAD has initiated many laws like American Sign Language, Relay Texas, TSD 51% board make-up, Commission for the Ceaf, Southwest Collegiate Institute for the Deaf, teacher certification, tuition waiver, and the founding of Texas Society of Interpreters for the Deaf.
For those who wish to join TAD, there is a membership form under the “membership” sub-page at www.deaftexas.org.
Our website has a wealth of information to share with visitors and interested parties.
Lastly and not least, we will have an exciting 2009 TAD conference with youth activities, nationally known speakers, and
Miss Deaf Texas Ambassadorship from June 11-13.
Watch for more details coming your way via many sources soon.
(Dated public press release on November 22, 2008)
Chris Kearney moved from his 6-year-term as director of TAD board to
vice president until next TAD conference in June 2009
Cathy Elder-Ashley resigned as vice president of TAD in November 2008
and will be moving to Wisconsin to be with her immediate family
TAD wishes everyone a Happy and safe Thanksgiving!!
Posted in: TAD Announcements by TAD Administration on October 10, 2008 | 0 Comments
Results and Photos of TAD Booth at TSD Homecoming October 4 was a very productive day for Texas School for the Deaf and Texas Association of the Deaf at the annual TSD Homecoming event in Austin. A record of 67 booths was on display and nearly 3000 people enjoyed the warm Saturday weather. TAD had three booths, enough rooms for five reasons.
Beside our membership drive booth, Karen and Tony Kirby were there to provide information about our June 11-13, 2009 conference in San Antonio. Miss Deaf Texas Ambassadorship committee sold fruit cups and produced a popular hair spraying fundraiser under a blue canopy.
For the first time in TSD history, we hosted a voter registration drive with the collaboration of TSD, Coalition of Texans with Disabilities, and Travis County Elections Department. Over 50 deaf and hard of hearing people registered as voters and will cast their vote on the November 6 presidential election. Another booth guest was Regina Blye, executive director of the Texas Statewide Independent Living Council. Our five-themed booth display was one of the best for TAD in as many years.
TAD is a non-profit 501 (3) C organization that was established in 1886. There are about 650 members, including online E-newsletter subscribers. TAD is an advocacy state association and is affiliated with the National Association of the Deaf. TAD has initiated many laws like American Sign Language, Relay Texas, TSD 51% board make-up, commission for the deaf, SWCID, and TSID. For those who wish to join TAD, there is a membership form at www.deaftexas.org. Our website has a wealth of information to share with visitors and interested parties.
Posted in: TAD Announcements by TAD Administration on September 29, 2008 | 0 Comments
The homecoming festival and football game at Texas School for the Deaf is one of the biggest events in the Deaf Community. Last year there were over 2,000 visitors and 44 booths at TSD. This year the event will take place on October 4, Saturday, from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 PM. Game time against Maryland School for the Deaf starts at 5:30 PM.
TAD will have three booths to greet the crowds in the TSD mall, which starts at the Elizabeth Street entrance and ends at the Heritage Center. First booth is our membership drive where old and new members can visit us and check their membership status. Some of you will need to renew before December, so drop by to verify and renew for either $10 as a senior or $15 as a regular. We will be giving out free copies of The Deaf Texan. Members in good standing will get the fall copy, fresh off the computerized press.
Second TAD booth is made up of members of the Miss Deaf Texas Ambassadorship fundraising committee. MDTA director Terri Levine and her team will sell fruit cups and share information about the 2009 pageant in San Antonio.
In the third booth, Karen Kirby and her conference planning committee will be ready to dispense information about the 45th TAD Biennial Conference at Holiday Inn’s El Tropicano Riverwalk Hotel from June 11 to 13.
This year we have something else that is unique, new and very civic. With Tracey Michol and the local polling administers assisting, there will be a special table for the visitors who wish to register to vote in the upcoming presidential election! A voting machine will be set up so that the homecoming visitors can practice their skills with the advice of polling experts. TSD is providing certified interpreters for this special arrangement.
Come to our booths to show your pride in Deaf culture and exercise your right to vote as good citizens.
Posted in: TAD Announcements by TAD Administration on June 30, 2008 | 0 Comments
It’s almost time for the 49th Biennial National Association of the Deaf (NAD) Conference in New Orleans, Louisiana July 7-11, 2008. The good times will definitely be rolling, so we hope you will join the more than 1,300 people already registered!
The conference schedule is packed with fantastic talent, surprises, magic and creativity – a feast for the eyes and hands!
Conference Events
For a complete list of conference activities, please go to www.nad.org/2008conf.
Conference Registration
If you have any questions, please go to www.nad.org/contactus.
See you in New Orleans!
Posted in: TAD Announcements by TAD Administration on June 22, 2008 | 0 Comments
MEDIA CONTACT: Vikee Waltrip
Media@ntd.org
Fax: 860-236-4163
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
National Theatre of the Deaf be at National Association of the Deaf conference in New Orleans
West Hartford, CT (June 17, 2008] – After a 28 years hiatus, the National Theatre of the Deaf will return to the National Association of the Deaf’s Conference once again with an exhibition booth, to be held between June 7-11th. The last time NTD was at NAD was in 1980, during their Centennial event in Cincinnati, Ohio. Under the new direction of Aaron Kubey, Executive Director, NTD is looking forward to presenting a new face to the community, which will include new works by deaf writers and artists.
Mr. Kubey says, “It’s very important for me that NTD is present at NAD, as I am trying to show the community we are still alive and well on our way back. I need the community’s support to help me make all my visions for NTD come true. I hope that a stronger relationship with the community will come as a result by coming to NAD, meeting and listening to what they have to say, and sharing with them what NTD’s future plans are”.
NTD, whose 40 plus years of existence has been a mainstay of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community. From every corner of the globe, while performing in front of local school children, to worldwide acclaim in over 100 countries, which in turn has become as commonplace and important as NAD is.
Bobbie Beth Scoggins, President of The National Association of the Deaf had this to say, ” Our culture is built upon historical achievement by deaf persons. Thirty-nine years and 10,000 performances speaks for itself and is an essential part of the deaf identity. It is a significant part of our culture. While performances by individual persons has its own place, it is the product of the NTD body that is of significance. Old timers will recall with fondness the early years of NTD, newcomers can become part of the current contribution of NTD to our cultural image…and remember it when they become old timers. As a former participant in the NTD Little Theatre of the Deaf years ago, I have a certain fondness for this body. The impact of that experience lingers with me yet. It is this kind of impact that NTD is destined to make in the lives of performers yet to come.
NANCY BLOCH, Executive Director of NAD commented: “It is my hope that hearts will be gladdened by the NTD appearance. While some have said that NTD has struggled in recent years, yet, here is NTD still performing. I hope we can have that certain confidence restored by the NTD appearance at the NAD. There will be much hand waving in this place! NTD had done it again!
There will have more announcements at the conference, so come by our booth to find out what they are!
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The National Theatre of the Deaf (NTD) operates under the following comprehensive mission: To produce theatrically challenging work of the highest quality, drawing from as wide a range of the world’s literature as possible; to perform these original works in a style that links American Sign Language with the spoken word; to seek, train and employ Deaf artists; to offer our work to as culturally diverse and inclusive an audience as possible; to provide community outreach activities that will educate and enlighten the general public, opening their eyes and ears to Deaf culture and building linkages that facilitate involvement in our methods of work.
Posted in: TAD Announcements by TAD Administration on April 28, 2008 | 0 Comments
Press release from Texas Association of the Deaf, April 26, 2008
Busy April Showers for TAD
Texas Association of the Deaf had a very busy and happy month of April as a major sponsor for local and national events. To begin with, TAD was one of the three organizations along with Texas School for the Deaf and National Association of the Deaf, the NAD National Leadership Training Conference took place in Austin from April 3 to 5, 2008. 100 actual participants benefited from panel discussions, breakout sessions and keynoted speeches. Some NLTC photos may be seen on TAD website under the gallery subpage. TAD members Betty Bounds, Stella Egbert. Gertie Galloway and Steve Baldwin were among the speakers. There were about 20 TAD members who volunteered their respective time and services during the successful conference.
At the end of the conference, Sorenson donated $3000 to TAD to help support the significant leadership training and the community reception. (See attached photo of TAD board members Steve Baldwin and Gertie Galloway on stage with Bobbie Beth Scoggins, NAD president, and Nancy Bloch, NAD executive director, during the actual $3000 donation of the Sorenson check.)
During the same weekend the lst Berg/Seeger Track and Field Conference took place on the TSD campus. Fourteen deaf school programs and 200 athletes took part of the national event, which was won overall by TSD schoolboy/schoolgirl tracksters. TAD gave United States Deaf Sports Federation Track and Field director Tom Withrow $400 for all 14 individual and team awards. Ruth Seeger is a life-long member of TAD and Tom Berg is a former member who moved with his wife Betty moved to the Austin area recently. (See enclosed photo of President Baldwin with legendary coaches Berg and Seeger. Baldwin and board member Larry Evans are former IDG/WGD members.)
The third April event is called the Ranger Triathlon fundraiser on April 27 in Austin. TAD member Nick Bannon is the coordinator and a successful ironman himself. TAD donated $300 to the event for county-wide healthy family affair. TAD membership forms were placed in 250 packet bags for publicity purpose.
Indeed, one of the goals of TAD is to foster educational and leadership quality in Texas. Incidentally, the partnership between TSD and TAD is based on the statewide responsibilities both uphold as educational leaders. Log on www.deaftexas.org and read about other goals and accomplishments for the betterment of the Texas deaf community. And do not forget to mark your calendar for June 11 to 13, 2009 for the 45th biennial conference at Holiday Inn’s El Tropicano Riverwalk Hotel in San Antonio! Miss Deaf Texas Pageant will be a glorious part of the conference in an adjacent ballroom. Come dance with the Deaf stars of Texas!
TAD was established in 1886 and serves as a non-profit organization that advocates for the rights of deaf and hard of hearing Texans. Membership is only $15 a year and $10 for seniors. As one of the several benefits, The Deaf Texan newsletter is mailed or e-mailed four times a year to members. Because of TAD, we enjoy relay and video services, ASL classes, legal rights and other benefits, which were made possible by past endeavors of dedicated TAD officers during the last 30 years. There are nearly 425 people who are members of TAD along with about 300 website e-newsletter subscribers. 725 TAD people care for the future of TAD. Do you?
TAD is affiliated with the National Association of the Deaf, the watchdog for the civil rights of the deaf since 1880. For further information on the significance of your state association, go to www.deaftexas.org .
(Left to right: Bobbie Beth Scoggins, NAD president, Gertie Galloway, TAD board director and Sorenson representative, Steve Baldwin, TAD president, and Nancy Bloch, NAD executive director, on stage at TSD cafeteria before 140 National Leadership Training Conference registered members on April 5, 2008.)
(Ruth Seeger, Steve Baldwin and Tom Berg met at the Hyatt Hotel in Austin where more than 45 former Deaf Olympians gathered to honor the legendary track and field coaches. 1st Berg/Seeger Track and Field Classic was won by TSD! Good investment for TAD as the sole sponsor of all the individual and team awards on April 5, 2008. Thanks to TAD membership!)
Posted in: TAD Announcements by TAD Administration on March 20, 2008 | 0 Comments
Interview with President Steve Baldwin – 25 Minutes Long with voice over
Courtesy of Travis County Services for the Deaf Travis County Channel 17 Media
Posted in: TAD Announcements by TAD Administration on March 11, 2008 | 0 Comments
DeafACT’s got Talent! AUDITION
Lights! Props! And Action!
DeafACT’s Got Talent! Audition
DATE: March 19, 2008 (Wednesday)
TIME: 5:30 pm – 7:00 pm
LOCATION:
Texas School for the Deaf – Deaf Smith Center
1102 South Congress Avenue
Austin, Texas
We are looking for Deaf, Hard of Hearing, and CODA individuals between the ages of 8-18 to showcase their TALENTS! Please attend the audition to show your talents up to 5 minutes of stage time will be given. The actual Talent show dates will be May 9 & 10, 2008.
Questions? Contact: Lauren Kinast, PatLore@aol.com
Download flyer: (pdf format)
http://www.deafnetwork.com/file/TalentShowUPDATED.pdf
Posted in: TAD Announcements by TAD Administration on February 26, 2008 | 0 Comments
First and foremost is the decision to select San Antonio as the site of the 2009 45th Biennial Conference at El Tropicano Hotel from June 11 to 13. Thanks to our new conference chairperson Karen Kirby of San Antonio and her committee, we have a great hotel on Riverwalk! This hotel is used to hosting Deaf functions and has spent 17 million dollars renovating. Ms. Kirby has ample conference planning experience and has already formed a talented, experienced and enthusiastic committee. She will be making periodic announcements from time to time during the next many months leading up to the conference. She may be reached on the TAD website. So mark your calendar for June 11 to 13, 2009.
TAD Board also approved the appointment of Ms. Terri Levine of San Antonio as the next director of the Miss Deaf Texas Pageant. She will assume her responsibilities after the NAD Conference this July. Ms Levine, the former Miss Deaf Indiana in 1982, has already formed her own committee of many TAD members from Austin, San Antonio and elsewhere. She too will be informing Deaf Texans about her upcoming activities in the future.
Incidentally, at the 2007 Texas Society of Interpreters for the Deaf Conference in Irving, Miss Deaf Texas Pageant debuted for the first time outside of TAD Conference. The experiment was a financial success and more than 300 attended the pageant, which was won by Katherine Murch of Corpus Christi. MDTP may again return to TSID Conference in 2011. The TAD Board members voted to have the pageant back once again for its conference in 2009. The auditorium for the pageant is adjacent to the hotel, which makes it very convenient!
On March lst, TAD officers and committee members will appear on stage at the Crockett Center in Austin for 25 minutes at the upcoming Deaf Nation Expo in Austin at about noon time. Be sure to visit the TAD booth, which is one of the 80 exhibit booths at the Expo.
TAD also wishes to announce a special subpage on its website, deaftexas.org in which the reader can find a number of meeting minutes posted for anyone interested in the past and present membership and board actions. The minutes posted have been approved for public perusal. Any questions about the minutes may be forwarded to the TAD secretary Marianne Sasseen on the TAD website.
TAD was established in 1886 and serves as a non-profit organization that advocates for the rights of deaf and hard of hearing Texans. Membership is only $15 a year and $10 for qualified seniors. The Deaf Texan newsletter is mailed or e-mailed four times a year to members, which has reached the 400 mark already! Because of TAD, we enjoy relay and video services and other benefits made possible by past endeavors of dedicated TAD members the last 30 years. TAD is also affiliated with the National Association of the Deaf. For further information on the significance of your deaf state association, go to www.deaftexas.org.
Posted in: TAD Announcements by TAD Administration on February 24, 2008 | 0 Comments
G’Day!
DeafNation is pleased to announce that on March 1, 2008 there are 80-plus booths taking up every inch of space at the upcoming DeafNation Expo in Austin, Texas, with over 2800 people expected to attend.
We have significantly more booths than the last two DeafNation Expos in Austin, there will be plenty to see and much more!
The annual DeafNation Expo event is in greater demand as each year passes, offering exciting prospects for all exhibitors and attendees alike.
Please check the DeafNation website http://www.deafnation.com for children’s activities available for a nominal fee at the Austin DeafNation Expo.
Our Premier Event Sponsors are:
-Sorenson Communications: http://www.sorensonvrs.com
-Sprint Relay: http://www.sprintrelay.com
-The Purple team HOVRS-i711.com-IP-Relay.com
With free admission, we will be offering free entertainment to the hottest shows in Deaf culture.
Sign up online for a free admission ticket at www.deafnation.com now!
Location:
The Crockett Center
10601 N. Lamar
Austin, TX 78753
Exhibition Hours: 9am to 6pm
Parking is FREE!
~Bring family and friends, come prepared to shop!~
Cheers!
DeafNation Staff
expo@deafnation.com
http://www.deafnation.com
Posted in: TAD Announcements by TAD Administration on January 16, 2008 | 0 Comments
WHAT HAS TAD BEEN DOING SINCE THE TAD CONFERENCE LAST JUNE?
In case you are wondering what TAD has done since the new administration officers and directors took the oath of office last June 2007, here is a list of activities for your interest:
In the meantime, TAD Executive Board kept in touch with each other on a weekly basis via emails, VP and in person. Issues and problems are presented to TAD board that we quickly addressed in different ways. For example: When FCC sent out important policy decisions related to VRS, we exchanged our feedback with each other. At any rate, we expect to be busier in 2008, due to NLTC, the NAD Conference and other events as well as a myriad of activities.
TAD Board continues to justify their mission and goals as stated in our newsletter and website. Go to www.deaftexas.org for more information.
Happy New Year from TAD Board to each and every one of you!
Posted in: TAD Announcements by TAD Administration on December 26, 2007 | 0 Comments
SPECIAL HOLIDAY MEMBERSHIP OFFER TO
ALL CURRENT TAD WEBSITE E-NEWSLETTER SUBSCRIBERS
TAD President Steve C. Baldwin and the membership committee under Fred Newberry would like to offer all current TAD website electronic-newsletter subscribers a special holiday deal you cannot refuse. This deal is good until December 31, 2007.
For those who are over 55 and non-members of TAD, you can join TAD for one year for only $5! Those current senior members who will need to renew their TAD membership soon can now rejoin for $5 for 12 months instead of $10. New members who are over 18 and not over 55 can join for a year at $10 instead of $15. After taking advantage of this special holiday offer, each subscriber will be getting three or four newsletters during 2008. Of course, every month you will receive public announcements from TAD.
The membership form can be downloaded from the TAD website via a special holiday offer subpage. New members need to write the words “Holiday Offer” on the first page and mail directly with your check to Fred Newberry, 8624 Croydon Loop, Austin, TX 78748-6502.
We trust that each subscriber enjoyed all the posted announcements about TAD activities during 2007. In appreciation of our website readership, we are attaching our latest edition of The Deaf Texan. (see below)
Not the least, TAD wishes everyone a safe, peaceful, happy and healthy holiday. And may the New Year 2008 be your kind of year in terms of security and productivity.
Download Membership form – Special Holiday Offer
Click here. (pdf format)
Download TAD Newsletter The Deaf Texan – Fall/Winter 2007
Edition Complimentary – Click here. (pdf format)
Steve C. Baldwin
TAD President
Email: steve@deaftexas.org
Posted in: TAD Announcements by TAD Administration on November 13, 2007 | 0 Comments
Click image to view full-size flyer or scroll down to download PDF version
DeafACT (Deaf America’s Children’s Theatre) presents Couch Potato Santa
Directed by Franky Ramont
When:
December 8th at 6pm (Saturday)
December 9th at 4 pm (Sunday)
Where:
Texas School for the Deaf
R.L. Davis Auditorium
(see www.deafact.org for directions)
Price:
Adults- $8.00
Students- $5.00
Under age 4- FREE!
EARLY BIRD TICKETS!!! BUY tickets now for $5.00!! Check www.deafact.org for more information about our show.
See you all there!!
Patty Germundson
Outreach Director
www.deafact.org
Download flyer: (pdf format)
http://www.deafnetwork.com/file/FinalSanta2.pdf
Posted in: TAD Announcements by TAD Administration on November 11, 2007 | 0 Comments
San Antonio Celebrates DAW’s 30th Year Banquet
DATE: November 17, 2007
TIME: 6:30pm to Midnight
San Antonio Celebrates Deaf Awareness 30 Years!! 1977-2007
Norris Conference Center
Red Oak Ballroom
4522 Fredericksburg Rd.
San Antonio, Texas 78201
At Crossroad Mall off the Interstates 10 & 410 (Located next to Target)
Marriott Spring Hill Suites’ located right just in front of Norris Center in parking lot. Suite rates varied from $89 to $109 per night.
Call for reservations: 210-737-6068 or via the website: www.marriott.com
$35 Per Person
Dress Code: “Sunday Best” Casual (No Blue Jeans Permitted)
Menu: “Pasta Bar” Create your own plate with a great selection of perfectly cooked pasta (Penne, Bowtie, & Buttered Fettuccini Noodles) & rich Itaalian sauces (Basil Marinara & Creamy Alfredo Sauce), accompanied by Provencal Style Vegetables; includes a selection of Sliced Sauteed Chicken OR Stewed Sirlon. This Back-to-Italy favorite is accompanied by an authentic Caesar Salad.
-Cash Bar 6:00-6:30
-Guest Speaker
-Silent Auction
Guest Perfomer – Keith Wann — CODA Performer
A child of deaf adults, is one of America’s funniest ASL comedians. Wann tours around the ASL Nation performing his one man show “Watching Two Worlds Collide” rated G to Adult Humor, and as a Storyteller for Festivals featuring family & children stories in ASL. Check out his website: www.keithwann.com
Download flyer: (pdf format)
http://www.deafnetwork.com/file/BanquetFlyer.pdf
Sponsor for $1000 will be seated at VIP Table & be Recognized in the program book (seats 10 per table).
Last Day to Purchase Tickets is November 7, 2007 or until sold out
Capacity up to 250 seats.
CART will be provided.
Age Limit 18 years old & above.
- – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - – - –
DAW 30th Anniversary Banquet Tickets
To purchase tickets, please complete form below and send check (payable to SA DAW) to David Solis, DAW Treasurer, PO Box 460583, SAT 78246. Tickets will NOT be sold at the door and are Non-Refundable.
Name: __________________________________________________________________________
Address: _______________________________________City: _______________
State: _____________Zip:_________
Phone or Email:
___________________________________________________________________________________
Sponsor Name:
____________________________________________________________________________________
Address: _______________________________________
City: _______________State:_____________Zip:_________
Phone or Email:
___________________________________________________________________________________
Number of Tables Sponsored
@ $1000: _______ Number of Tickets @ $35 Per Person: __________
Total : $_________ Total: $__________
Terri Levine
Email: safarioly@yahoo.com
Posted in: TAD Announcements by TAD Administration on October 18, 2007 | 0 Comments
REVISED DAVIDEO NEWS UPDATE: 4th CINEMA FOR EVERYONE
DAVIDEO PRODUCTIONS will present the FOURTH CINEMA FOR EVERYONE FILM SHOWCASE on NOVEMBER 9 & 10, 2007 at the Historic Palace Theatre on 314 South Austin Street, Seguin, Texas.
This unique movie experience targeting the Deaf Community is sponsored by Texas Association of the Deaf and Sprint.
WATCH DEAF MOVIES ON GIANT 40 FOOT MOVIE SCREEN!
WE’RE PROUD TO ANNOUNCE THE TEXAS PREMIERE OF "DUMMY HOY: A DEAF HERO "
Sign Language, Captions, Full Sound
Saturday 11/10/07 at 4-5:30pm CT
Admission $5
WRONG GAME
Sign Language, Silent
Saturday 11/10/07 at 8-10:15pm CT
Admission $10
THROUGH DEAF EYES
Sign Language, Captions, Full Sound
Saturday 11/10/07 at 1-3pm CT
Admission FREE
FORGET ME NOT
Sign Language, Silent
Friday 11/9/07 at 8-10pm CT
Admission $10
Doors open one hour before show time.
Space limited to 350 seats.
TEXAS ASSOCIATION OF THE DEAF AND SPRINT RECEPTION Attendee social with representatives of TAD & Sprint at Chiro Java Internet Cafe
114 South Austin Street, Seguin, TX
Saturday 11/10/07 at 5:30-7:30pm CT
SOCIAL GATHERINGS FOR ATTENDEES
FRIDAY NIGHT
Chiro Java Internet Cafe
114 South Austin Street, Seguin, TX
Friday 11/9/07 at 6-7:30pm CT
The Oak Bar
110 East Gonzales Street, Seguin, TX
Friday 11/9/07 at 9pm- Midnight CT
SATURDAY NIGHT
The Oak Bar
110 East Gonzales Street, Seguin, TX
Saturday 11/10/07 at 9pm- 1am CT
SEE YOU ALL THERE FOR A FUN-FILLED MOVIE WEEKEND IN HISTORIC SEGUIN, TEXAS!
FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE ABOVE FILMS, VISIT WWW.DAVIDEO.TV and click MOVIES.
Posted in: TAD Announcements by TAD Administration on September 17, 2007 | 0 Comments
1931 TAD Convention at Waco, Texas
Dear Texas Deaf Community:
We are seeking any old film about TAD events that you or someone may have carefully recorded and stored in the closet. Texas Association of the Deaf (TAD) is seeking old films, regardless of the format, so we can develop a new TAD documentary film. Many of you may have filmed TAD conferences, beauty contests, meetings, or special events since the 1950s. We already discovered great films from old members, but need more movies for the documentary project.
If you have a good film, please contact me via email at steve@deaftexas.org. If you know of someone who might have the film material, then refer this announcement to him or her.
Thank you,
Steve Baldwin
TAD President/Co-producer with Davideo Productions
PS (Other memorabilia, such as TAD programs, newsletters, good quality photos, and documents are also welcome. TAD has an archival room on TSD campus to store donated memorabilia.)
Posted in: TAD Announcements by TAD Administration on May 13, 2007 | 0 Comments
Nominations for Texas Association of the Deaf Officers and Board Directors may be emailed and accepted until June 17.
The Texas Association of the Deaf and its Nominations Committee under Mr. Bill Eckstein is accepting early nominations for the volunteered positions of president, vice president, secretary, treasurer and one director on the board. Each officer and director shall serve for two years from 2007 to 2009. Official elections will take place at the 44th Biennial TAD Conference from June 22 to 23 in Arlington. If you plan to nominate someone who is already a member of TAD, please make sure the nominee has personally accepted the opportunity to serve the Texas Deaf Community for two years. Qualified members may also make nominations at this given conference. This early list of nominees for all four positions will save us time after the business meeting on June 23. Nevertheless, nominees may change their minds and withdraw at election time and the Nominations Committee may take more nominations from the floor until the election ends and members have chosen their leaders for TAD. Hope to have a strong leadership once again to put TAD on the state map.
Please email your nomination to Bill Eckstein at Weckstein@austin.rr.com
Deadline for the emailed nominations is June 17, 2007 at midnight.
Go to www.deaftexas.org for information about the TAD conference and hotel reservations.
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