Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Monday, November 10, 2008
Thursday, September 18, 2008
All about Interpreters
So this post will be about interpreters. I've had some interesting encounters recently that I would like to share.
As some of you know, I recently was fitting fo rmy first hearing aid. I brought along my trusted friend and interpreter that goes to all of my appointments with medical. So we got there and got up to the receptionist.
This poor woman *laughs*. She must have been around 80. I signed and my interpreter spoke "Hello , my name is Dena, I'm here for my appointment". The woman was looking at me and in sign asked "Please again". I signed "you need to listen to the interpreter!" She spoke "I didn't catch all of what you were signing". I could have died, but it gets worse. I started explaining that's why I have an interpreter, so you can speak normally to me. She said well I didn't need an interpreter, she knew how to sign. *ouch!* The last straw was she had me fill out some paperwork, and she signed "please sign (as in ASL sign! lol) your name here". You had to have been there, it was quite a chuckle.
Educational interpreting is something I am just getting used to. This is the first year I am with interpreters for my classes. But is it just me or are they unaware that when I ask for no moithing of the words and less English word order and signs, it just confuses me more? I'm not sure one of my interpreters understands that. I've asked her politely during a break in class, but she still mouthes words like a fish. Yes, I understand English, but that doesn't mean I want my interpretation in English format. How do I politely tell her again to quit it?
That's it for now on that subject, but I'm sure I'll have plenty more to say in the comments. Thanks for reading and enjoy your weekend!
As some of you know, I recently was fitting fo rmy first hearing aid. I brought along my trusted friend and interpreter that goes to all of my appointments with medical. So we got there and got up to the receptionist.
This poor woman *laughs*. She must have been around 80. I signed and my interpreter spoke "Hello , my name is Dena, I'm here for my appointment". The woman was looking at me and in sign asked "Please again". I signed "you need to listen to the interpreter!" She spoke "I didn't catch all of what you were signing". I could have died, but it gets worse. I started explaining that's why I have an interpreter, so you can speak normally to me. She said well I didn't need an interpreter, she knew how to sign. *ouch!* The last straw was she had me fill out some paperwork, and she signed "please sign (as in ASL sign! lol) your name here". You had to have been there, it was quite a chuckle.
Educational interpreting is something I am just getting used to. This is the first year I am with interpreters for my classes. But is it just me or are they unaware that when I ask for no moithing of the words and less English word order and signs, it just confuses me more? I'm not sure one of my interpreters understands that. I've asked her politely during a break in class, but she still mouthes words like a fish. Yes, I understand English, but that doesn't mean I want my interpretation in English format. How do I politely tell her again to quit it?
That's it for now on that subject, but I'm sure I'll have plenty more to say in the comments. Thanks for reading and enjoy your weekend!
Tully's being bought
*Not Deaf news, sorry!*
I just open up the website for the Seattle PI, and they say that Tully's (a major coffee chain in Seattle, next to Starbucks and Seattle's Best) is being bought out. Here is the link
How do I feel? A little piece of me just died :( Well, the coffee addicted anyway. Growing up in the eye of the storm, seeing Starbucks florish, as well as many mom and pop coffee shops getting their stand. Living now in Illinois, we don't have Tully's. I miss their bitter bitter! coffee. So, it's going East Coast. I hope you guys like strong coffee *laughs* I guess it's okay though since we still have Starbucks to hold on to. Happy drinking!
I just open up the website for the Seattle PI, and they say that Tully's (a major coffee chain in Seattle, next to Starbucks and Seattle's Best) is being bought out. Here is the link
How do I feel? A little piece of me just died :( Well, the coffee addicted anyway. Growing up in the eye of the storm, seeing Starbucks florish, as well as many mom and pop coffee shops getting their stand. Living now in Illinois, we don't have Tully's. I miss their bitter bitter! coffee. So, it's going East Coast. I hope you guys like strong coffee *laughs* I guess it's okay though since we still have Starbucks to hold on to. Happy drinking!
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
I'm Loud?!
Sorry for the lack of posting lately. I have been busy with school and work life, but here is a sort of update and story.
I tend to be very self concious when it comes to my voice. I can speak so people assume I can speechread everything. Not so. Additionally, if I talk in class, they assume I can hear them. I have an interpreter for 2 out of 3 of my classes, so I'm in good hands. I sign and am free.
Friday and today, I've come into "disability awareness". People are looking at me strange when I talk, or even laugh. Is my laugh really THAT BAD?! Well, a friend of mine those two days told me I was too loud. Hmmm. So am I loud to hearing people or just loud in general? I'm not quite sure; I'm going to ask him later.
I've never really noticed the volume of my voice because I'm always trying hard to make it sound comprehensible. The interpreter cannot be with me 24/7, so I have to make due. It's good to have a pal though who's telling me I'm too loud. COming from another community college where Deaf, ASL students, and ITP students were normal, and just about any noise was no cause for alarm out of us.
I admire my friend. He said he's trying to keep people from staring. He seems to be strong in his mind, much mmore than I am. The pair of us though, we must be funny. He's in a wheelchair and I'm trying to talk to him. It makes me giggle how we must look :)
So, I'm loud? Turn your ears off!
I tend to be very self concious when it comes to my voice. I can speak so people assume I can speechread everything. Not so. Additionally, if I talk in class, they assume I can hear them. I have an interpreter for 2 out of 3 of my classes, so I'm in good hands. I sign and am free.
Friday and today, I've come into "disability awareness". People are looking at me strange when I talk, or even laugh. Is my laugh really THAT BAD?! Well, a friend of mine those two days told me I was too loud. Hmmm. So am I loud to hearing people or just loud in general? I'm not quite sure; I'm going to ask him later.
I've never really noticed the volume of my voice because I'm always trying hard to make it sound comprehensible. The interpreter cannot be with me 24/7, so I have to make due. It's good to have a pal though who's telling me I'm too loud. COming from another community college where Deaf, ASL students, and ITP students were normal, and just about any noise was no cause for alarm out of us.
I admire my friend. He said he's trying to keep people from staring. He seems to be strong in his mind, much mmore than I am. The pair of us though, we must be funny. He's in a wheelchair and I'm trying to talk to him. It makes me giggle how we must look :)
So, I'm loud? Turn your ears off!
Saturday, July 19, 2008
CODA Brothers DVD!
Hello all, I just wanted to let you know that the CODA Brothers DVD has finally launched and is running at a reduced intro price of $29.95 until July 31st. There is 2 videos that are not available on YouTube, the set is expanded, and an interview about what is a CODA. Go HERE to buy.
Friday, June 27, 2008
Accessibility on the Internet
Hello all. Today marks the last day that chairman Bill Gates sits in the hot seat at Microsoft. Lots of journalists, enthusiasts, and writers have done extensive montages dedicated to BillyG, so I won't bore you with it all.
So today being the day, I figured http://www.microsoft.com would get in on the action as well. They have, and right up on the first screen is an ad for a video montage about his early years and such. Great! I thought. Microsoft has always been great about having their online videos captioned if you have that option enabled in your computer settings. So I clicked it and no captioning.
Hmmm.
Okay, maybe it's because I'm in Firefox, I mean FF3 DID just come out. I'll try IE7.
Still no captions.
ARGH!
Okay check the settings, setting are fine.
I'm told on Microsoft's ENABLE page that "Our vision is to create innovative technology that is accessible to everyone and that adapts to each person's needs. Accessible technology eliminates barriers for people with disabilities and it enables individuals to take full advantage of their capabilities." Well it sure doesn't look like the reigns will be handed down if THIS is considered accessible. I demand that Microsoft transcribe all of the montage videos or caption them. I'll say now that I am a beta tester for them and this does not make me happy one bit. I've tested accessibility in products, but it seems some have been forgotten. WE however will not be forgotten about.
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
My Lousy Signing Skills
In reference to a comment on this blog (note that it is a comment left on the blog and not the actually blog post.) If you need a transcript, let me know, but I think you can gather what I'm trying to say.
Sunday, June 15, 2008
Where I Am
I've sat here for about a week wondering what to think and do over all of the mess with DeafRead, people getting ousted, leaving, attacking each other, etc. It's all very much to take and to be honest, in the end, it doesn't matter. At least, I thought it didn't.
Then DeafVillage came into the picture and then things really got confusing for me. I guess maybe it's because I still don't really know where I fit into the community (do I even FIT?).
We aren't supposed to look at this as a medical condition, but as I see daily in my life, it is. Growing up culturally Deaf, some of you don't have my experience. I understand that. So what am I supposed to do when the two worlds that are suppose to co-exist together suddenly clash; lash out at each other; then try to pry apart from one another with wounds and go separate ways?
I sign, I speak, I can hear some, I use hearing aids (soon), but this is all driving me crazy. Why can't we all get along, seriously?! Please don't make me choose between you all.
Thursday, May 29, 2008
Thursday, May 22, 2008
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
Tips on Meeting Deaf-Blind
Hello again! I'm sorry, I know it has been a long time since i have written in my blog, but life happens sometimes!
Last night I went the the Deaf Advisory Committee for the Illini Deaf and learned so much on the Deaf-Blind community. I wanted to let you all know what I learned so that maybe we can all pass this information on to the people who have yet to know.
1. Treat the deaf-blind person as you treat anyone else. Always be natural - never patronizing in your questions and your actions.
2. Address a deaf-blind person directly, not through someone else. Speak by forming the letters of the manual alphabet distinctly while he or she holds one hand lightly over yours to feel the position of your fingers. be careful to move your fingers directly from the position of one letter to the next and pause slightly between words. If deaf-blind persons are unfamiliar with the manual alphabet, you can print capital letters in their palm. be sure to pause between words.
3. Use the words "see," and "hear," or "blind" naturally, without hesitation if your conversation calls for them.
4. Let the deaf-blind person know when you enter or leave the room. Always say who you are.
5. Offer your arm when walking with a deaf-blind person. Do not push him or her ahead of you; let them hold your arm, just below the elbow.
6. You do not have to physically support a deaf-blind person who is entering a car or train or going upstairs. just place their hand on the door-knob or stair rail for guidance. You need not help deaf-blind persons to sit down; just help the put one of their hands on the back of a chair so they can judge its position.
7. Describe things that are happening - or are about to happen - around you when you are with a deaf-blind person.
8. Show deaf-blind persons that you are confident they can do useful things. This is an important form of encouragement.
9. Remember that your behavior toward deaf-blind persons will not only affect your attitude, but may be important in reinforcing the attitudes of their family and friends.
Last night I went the the Deaf Advisory Committee for the Illini Deaf and learned so much on the Deaf-Blind community. I wanted to let you all know what I learned so that maybe we can all pass this information on to the people who have yet to know.
1. Treat the deaf-blind person as you treat anyone else. Always be natural - never patronizing in your questions and your actions.
2. Address a deaf-blind person directly, not through someone else. Speak by forming the letters of the manual alphabet distinctly while he or she holds one hand lightly over yours to feel the position of your fingers. be careful to move your fingers directly from the position of one letter to the next and pause slightly between words. If deaf-blind persons are unfamiliar with the manual alphabet, you can print capital letters in their palm. be sure to pause between words.
3. Use the words "see," and "hear," or "blind" naturally, without hesitation if your conversation calls for them.
4. Let the deaf-blind person know when you enter or leave the room. Always say who you are.
5. Offer your arm when walking with a deaf-blind person. Do not push him or her ahead of you; let them hold your arm, just below the elbow.
6. You do not have to physically support a deaf-blind person who is entering a car or train or going upstairs. just place their hand on the door-knob or stair rail for guidance. You need not help deaf-blind persons to sit down; just help the put one of their hands on the back of a chair so they can judge its position.
7. Describe things that are happening - or are about to happen - around you when you are with a deaf-blind person.
8. Show deaf-blind persons that you are confident they can do useful things. This is an important form of encouragement.
9. Remember that your behavior toward deaf-blind persons will not only affect your attitude, but may be important in reinforcing the attitudes of their family and friends.
Monday, February 25, 2008
Bad Relay Service
Today I woke up needing a haircut. Yes, needing. I was still in my sleep clothes, so I decided to just text the call to my favorite salon. Normally, I walk in and they see me on the spot, but I wanted to have other work done as well, so I thought I had better make the block of time for them. I called and the front desk and I exchanged the services I needed. She asked me my name and I gave her my first name. I then expected her to ask for my last name, but there was nothing. For about 2 minutes, there was no notification of anything. Nothing from the relay, nothing happening. Then I got a message that the hearing caller hung up. Wait, what?!
So what happened? I don't have a clue. Did the salon not understand the relay? Did the relay not explain clearly what the user needs to do? I suspect maybe that those stupid pranksters who use relay to prank businesses had something to do with this, and maybe the front desk person thought this wasn't a real call. Why else would she just hang up?
More importantly, why wasn't I notified of anything happening for 2 minutes? Some relays I'm beginning to find are very good while others are very bad, and even the same company can have one bad service and the other is the best service I've had. How strange!
So what happened? I don't have a clue. Did the salon not understand the relay? Did the relay not explain clearly what the user needs to do? I suspect maybe that those stupid pranksters who use relay to prank businesses had something to do with this, and maybe the front desk person thought this wasn't a real call. Why else would she just hang up?
More importantly, why wasn't I notified of anything happening for 2 minutes? Some relays I'm beginning to find are very good while others are very bad, and even the same company can have one bad service and the other is the best service I've had. How strange!
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
The Long Goodbye
Hello! How are you all doing? I know it’s been a long time since I’ve vlogged. I’ve got something to explain to you. Tonight my husband came back from Chicago on the train. He asked me “Why is the house so dirty?! Didn’t you clean?!!” Well, you know the Yahoo Live! Chat? I’ve been in there for about 3 or 4 days now. I didn’t do anything else. I didn’t clean the house. That sure was a mistake on my part! I shouldn’t have neglected my chores. Anyway, I tried to explain to my husband that deaf culture…wait, let me start again. In hearing culture, when you’re on the phone, you say good bye, the other person says good bye, and the conversation is over. From what I learned of deaf culture is “the long goodbye”. It means you say good bye, but 2 hours, 3 hours later, you’re still chatting away. Finally, later, you say good bye and part ways. So I was trying to explain that to my husband. He wasn’t buying it. I know a lot of people here on Yahoo Live! Chat want the communication. In the hearing world, it's all spoken word. The deaf world, here we chat and communicate and carry on like there’s no tomorrow. I think maybe that’s why some of us stay so long in the chat. I really tried to explain it to my husband but he didn’t get it. You know, he’s in a hearing frame of mind. Soon, I might whittle down my chat usage so I’m not addicted to it. I really need to clean the house. Man, it is SO dirty. For 4 days, I didn’t do ANYTHING! Yuck! Hopefully you all don’t neglect your chores, partners or your family. Oh, and most importantly, don’t neglect your pets! Your cats, dogs, what have you. I love you all, bye!
Saturday, February 16, 2008
The Day DeafRead Went Dead
It all started with a harmless link. The editors sent a link to the Main Page informing everyone about a new video chat service by Yahoo that we should try and since they were on there, we could try it then. So of course I clicked. What I didn't' know was that I was going to be there for the next 7 hours having the time of my life! So many people joined into the conversation it seemed all of DeafRead was there. As Amy said in her post though, do bring Tylenol or your favorite anti-headache medicine. It can get confusing to see who is talking to who. But we all were having so much fun in there, hardly anyone posted on DeafRead. I had the first installment of Ask A Muslim ready to cam, but I was too busy being in the chat to film it *smiles*. Have fun in there guys, but remember we should still b/vlog!
Friday, February 15, 2008
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
Sunday, February 10, 2008
Deaf Crazy Bowling!
My bad day leading up to Deaf Crazy Bowling and Social. Needless to say, I had a blast!
Friday, February 8, 2008
Thursday, February 7, 2008
Take away the Muslim...Just Deaf
So I think the time has come that I stop talking about islam this and Muslim that. Deaf Read readers apparently don't want to hear about my endevors on completely translating on my own the entire Quran? Fine. Deaf first. i get it. Let's stay equal, after all we are all deaf. Are we? i go back to my first post, you read it right? oh you didn't? Ah, see that's why.
Recently I read about a person being attacked by the words of another person, and basically the comment was that the post writer was not deaf because he could "hear" his cell phone ring (the blog was talking about notifications of flight delays and such). The poster wrote back to the person and said that the cell was on vibrate and he felt it, and answered it.
It's things like this that really disgust me about people's judgment. That, and feeling like I have to be deaf first and Muslim second. Right now, being in this town, there is little to no activity, yet my heart is strong.
When I first started learning to sign, my teacher said I had a gift, and I didn't' believe her. I only believed her when people praised my signing ability. At my great-uncle's death, the preacher had worked with the deaf and knew I had a good heart he told me. It left me wondering where to go.
I see that even though I put my heart and soul into just one blog post, people don't' get it, and i don't' understand why. Deaf have been oppressed for ages, yes, and I'm trying to do something about it. Deaf Muslims in particular have been kept from their religion just as some deaf have been kept from their culture and language. So I tried to help them by the translation.
I guess I expected too much. You guys aren't' Muslim, why should you care about a translation of a book you could care less about? *sighs* I don't' know where I stand in the blogging right now. I was just trying to be helpful.
-Dena
Recently I read about a person being attacked by the words of another person, and basically the comment was that the post writer was not deaf because he could "hear" his cell phone ring (the blog was talking about notifications of flight delays and such). The poster wrote back to the person and said that the cell was on vibrate and he felt it, and answered it.
It's things like this that really disgust me about people's judgment. That, and feeling like I have to be deaf first and Muslim second. Right now, being in this town, there is little to no activity, yet my heart is strong.
When I first started learning to sign, my teacher said I had a gift, and I didn't' believe her. I only believed her when people praised my signing ability. At my great-uncle's death, the preacher had worked with the deaf and knew I had a good heart he told me. It left me wondering where to go.
I see that even though I put my heart and soul into just one blog post, people don't' get it, and i don't' understand why. Deaf have been oppressed for ages, yes, and I'm trying to do something about it. Deaf Muslims in particular have been kept from their religion just as some deaf have been kept from their culture and language. So I tried to help them by the translation.
I guess I expected too much. You guys aren't' Muslim, why should you care about a translation of a book you could care less about? *sighs* I don't' know where I stand in the blogging right now. I was just trying to be helpful.
-Dena
Captioned - Funny Things At Jummah
Captioned via Overstream, here is Baba Ali with his hit pilot of the Reminder Series "Funny Things At Jummah". Enjoy, Muslim and non-Muslim alike (over half his YouTube subscriptions are non-Muslim!)
Wednesday, February 6, 2008
Muslim Sign Language?
Funny things have happened these past few days. Last week, I was browsing all over the internet for Deaf and Muslim resources to find some more information on a sign for "muslim" or "islam". I came across a few KSL (Kuwaiti Sign Language) resources, but nothing I wanted or needed at the time.
Then I came across the website of the Global Deaf Muslim and I clicked on the video section AND THERE'S ONE OF MY VIDEOS! I couldn't believe it. *laughs* I'm honored, really, but did they really NEED to use the one where I messed up and signed "chocolate" instead of church? ;)
All of this got me to thinking; there is little resources available to deaf and hoh muslims who want to learn their religion. The GDM has lofty goals, but I decided to take matters into my own hands. The attempt at the first chapter of the Quran, Surah Al-Fatihah, is a translation completely of my own using the best English translation I own (my Arabic isn't so great). I released it to get feedback on if it was clear the messege. If not, i can re-work it of course. But I see the bible done in ASL, and it's beauty, and I want that for the Quran. i want to help bring the messege of the Quran to my other deaf and hoh brothers and sisters in Islam.
One point that the GDM raises is trying to create a "Muslim Sign Language" to use so that all of us can communicate upon first meeting, no matter what country. I'll leave you all to debate that one ;)
So I decided to write this post because in trying to come up with signs for the different concepts in Islam, I was stumped. And with no other language to turn to, I didn't know if i wanted to even finish Surah Al-Fatihah. Now, I bring you Turkish Sign Language with Muslim signs (Click on the right hand side where it says "Dini El Isaretleri") :) Enjoy, debate, but please, have it be productive, not hurtful. Thanks!
Then I came across the website of the Global Deaf Muslim and I clicked on the video section AND THERE'S ONE OF MY VIDEOS! I couldn't believe it. *laughs* I'm honored, really, but did they really NEED to use the one where I messed up and signed "chocolate" instead of church? ;)
All of this got me to thinking; there is little resources available to deaf and hoh muslims who want to learn their religion. The GDM has lofty goals, but I decided to take matters into my own hands. The attempt at the first chapter of the Quran, Surah Al-Fatihah, is a translation completely of my own using the best English translation I own (my Arabic isn't so great). I released it to get feedback on if it was clear the messege. If not, i can re-work it of course. But I see the bible done in ASL, and it's beauty, and I want that for the Quran. i want to help bring the messege of the Quran to my other deaf and hoh brothers and sisters in Islam.
One point that the GDM raises is trying to create a "Muslim Sign Language" to use so that all of us can communicate upon first meeting, no matter what country. I'll leave you all to debate that one ;)
So I decided to write this post because in trying to come up with signs for the different concepts in Islam, I was stumped. And with no other language to turn to, I didn't know if i wanted to even finish Surah Al-Fatihah. Now, I bring you Turkish Sign Language with Muslim signs (Click on the right hand side where it says "Dini El Isaretleri") :) Enjoy, debate, but please, have it be productive, not hurtful. Thanks!
My First Deaf Event In Champaign-Urbana!
My first deaf event in Champaign-Urbana. I was so excitied while signing, so if I was unclear, sorry!
Monday, February 4, 2008
ASL - Surah Al-Fatihah
My attempt at translating the 1st chapter of the Quran into ASL. If it's not clear or you have any questions, please feel free to let me know, I'm open for suggestions.
Captioned - Introduction/The Deaf Label
Here is the captioned version of the Deaf Label from my blog for those who need it. Enjoy!
Deaf Calendar for February
Deaf Function Calendar for February: (Champaign-Urbana)
Tuesday Feb. 5th, 10am-4pm @ PACE, 1317 E Florida Ave: Illini Deaf Senior Citizens welcomes you back for a social, bingo, and card playing. Lunch will be served. $5 admission. Please call Linda TTY/videophone 217-352-2361 or Charles TTY/videophone 217-423-7318 to let them know you are coming.
Tuesday Feb. 5th, 5pm-7pm @ Market Place Mall food court: Silent Dinner.
Saturday Feb 9th, 1:30pm @ Western Bowl, 917 Frnaic Dr: Illini Chapter of IAD Crazy Bowling. Cost is $12 per bowler, that includes bowling fee, shoe rental. door prizes, and admission. $6 for fans. A very nice Illini Throw will be raffled off. Email Susan at susanweiss@sprint.blackberry.net.
Saturday Feb 9th, 5:30pm-10:00pm @ Hays Center, 1311 West Church Street: Chili Cook-Off Contest and Social. Do you think you make the best chili in the land? If so, contact Shelley at Sofafive@aol.com for more information on the contest. Cost is $5 per person. Chili Cook-Off is 5:30pm-7:30pm, Social is afterwards until 10:00pm.
Thursday Feb 14th, 7pm @ PACE, 1317 E Florida Ave: Illini Chapter of IAD Meeting and Social. $1 for members, $3 for visitors. Bring finger food or Valentine's Day treats to share. Must wear Pink or Red or get charged $1 extra.
Thursday Feb 21st, 6pm @ PACE 1317 E Florida Ave: Deaf Advisory Committee Pizza Day. We need your help stuffing egga for children's egg hunt, etc to get ready for March 1. Also we will discuss future workshops. Pizza and drinks provided. RSVP for Pizza by Feb 19th. Call Susan at TTY/videophone 217-344-5024 or email susan@pacecil.org
Tuesday Feb. 5th, 10am-4pm @ PACE, 1317 E Florida Ave: Illini Deaf Senior Citizens welcomes you back for a social, bingo, and card playing. Lunch will be served. $5 admission. Please call Linda TTY/videophone 217-352-2361 or Charles TTY/videophone 217-423-7318 to let them know you are coming.
Tuesday Feb. 5th, 5pm-7pm @ Market Place Mall food court: Silent Dinner.
Saturday Feb 9th, 1:30pm @ Western Bowl, 917 Frnaic Dr: Illini Chapter of IAD Crazy Bowling. Cost is $12 per bowler, that includes bowling fee, shoe rental. door prizes, and admission. $6 for fans. A very nice Illini Throw will be raffled off. Email Susan at susanweiss@sprint.blackberry.net.
Saturday Feb 9th, 5:30pm-10:00pm @ Hays Center, 1311 West Church Street: Chili Cook-Off Contest and Social. Do you think you make the best chili in the land? If so, contact Shelley at Sofafive@aol.com for more information on the contest. Cost is $5 per person. Chili Cook-Off is 5:30pm-7:30pm, Social is afterwards until 10:00pm.
Thursday Feb 14th, 7pm @ PACE, 1317 E Florida Ave: Illini Chapter of IAD Meeting and Social. $1 for members, $3 for visitors. Bring finger food or Valentine's Day treats to share. Must wear Pink or Red or get charged $1 extra.
Thursday Feb 21st, 6pm @ PACE 1317 E Florida Ave: Deaf Advisory Committee Pizza Day. We need your help stuffing egga for children's egg hunt, etc to get ready for March 1. Also we will discuss future workshops. Pizza and drinks provided. RSVP for Pizza by Feb 19th. Call Susan at TTY/videophone 217-344-5024 or email susan@pacecil.org
Sunday, February 3, 2008
My thoughts on AGBell, the Coda Brothers, and Karen from DeafRead
My thoughts on AGBell, the Coda Brothers, and Karen from DeafRead.
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
What is the best texting phone?
I'm thinking about getting a new cell phone soon, but it has to be hearing aid compatible. I use a Windows Mobile device right now, which isn't compatible, and I don't have my hearing aids yet. It's got to have a keyboard for good texting! What is the best phone in your opinion?
Monday, January 28, 2008
Thank you for your Support
This vlog is a response to the nasty comments that have been left in "Your Deaf Muslim Sister".
My Husband Is Learning ASL!
My husband has decided to learn ASL, I'm soooo happy! I bought him a book tonight that comes with a dvd, and he can practice with me. I'm glad he wants to take the time to learn more about the language I prefer to express myself in.
Going Deaf Goes To The Cinema
It was really a great day out today (above 40 degrees!), so my husband and I decided to go on a date. We wanted to see a movie since we had not been in a very long time. I don't go to the cinema often, not only because of my hearing, it's more like I have other things to do. So today was to be a special treat. I called ahead on my videophone to see if what I wanted to see was playing (yes), and was it captioned.
Back in Seattle where I'm from, I had alot of access to deaf and hoh services, so when I went to the cinemas, i was used to asking for headphones or rearview captioning devices. Rearview captioning seems to have not been implemented in my small Illinois town. the lady had no idea what I was talking about. I then asked about headphones to use, and she said yes, they had them for use. I quickly got me and my husband out of the house and we went off to the movie.
We got there, and my husband asked for the headphones for me. After a little bit of aimlessly walking about, the ticket agent decided he should finally ask someone where they were located (it had been about 5 minutes since we had asked). He came back, and there sat a device with one ear bud on it. I thought alright, let's just get to the movie, no fussing.
We got into the theater where the movie was playing, and tried to put the one ear bud into my best ear and listen, but it was nothing but static. i thought well, it must be just because it is the pre-show. So I waited until the feature came on, and I tried again, all different channels. Still didn't work. I sat and watched to movie, got enough of it to understand it, but not fully.
I spoke to the manager who refunded my money, but I didn't even need that. I told her the ear bud was not a great idea, but she informed me it was new. I don't have my hearing aids yet, but I'm pretty sure when I got a theater, i don't want to take one off just so i can put an ear bud in.
The rest of the evening went well, but I just had to post my experience today. I'm saddened by the fact they have a thin veil of accommodation in regards to deaf and hoh patrons. They do not have open caption nights. They said no one came to them, so they stopped doing them. So ask you, if you have a cinema near you who gives you good service and accommodation, let them know you appreciate it. When they have open captioning movie night, go. If people don't go, they will say there is no need. There IS a need. Don't let them take away something they took away from my town.
Back in Seattle where I'm from, I had alot of access to deaf and hoh services, so when I went to the cinemas, i was used to asking for headphones or rearview captioning devices. Rearview captioning seems to have not been implemented in my small Illinois town. the lady had no idea what I was talking about. I then asked about headphones to use, and she said yes, they had them for use. I quickly got me and my husband out of the house and we went off to the movie.
We got there, and my husband asked for the headphones for me. After a little bit of aimlessly walking about, the ticket agent decided he should finally ask someone where they were located (it had been about 5 minutes since we had asked). He came back, and there sat a device with one ear bud on it. I thought alright, let's just get to the movie, no fussing.
We got into the theater where the movie was playing, and tried to put the one ear bud into my best ear and listen, but it was nothing but static. i thought well, it must be just because it is the pre-show. So I waited until the feature came on, and I tried again, all different channels. Still didn't work. I sat and watched to movie, got enough of it to understand it, but not fully.
I spoke to the manager who refunded my money, but I didn't even need that. I told her the ear bud was not a great idea, but she informed me it was new. I don't have my hearing aids yet, but I'm pretty sure when I got a theater, i don't want to take one off just so i can put an ear bud in.
The rest of the evening went well, but I just had to post my experience today. I'm saddened by the fact they have a thin veil of accommodation in regards to deaf and hoh patrons. They do not have open caption nights. They said no one came to them, so they stopped doing them. So ask you, if you have a cinema near you who gives you good service and accommodation, let them know you appreciate it. When they have open captioning movie night, go. If people don't go, they will say there is no need. There IS a need. Don't let them take away something they took away from my town.
Sunday, January 27, 2008
Censorship? You bet!
It took me a while to catch up on the week's news about censorship on DeafRead but I didn't think it was going to happen to me. Of course, it happen to happen to my most important post. Last night, when I made the Deaf Sister post, I wanted lots of people to comment, get the most exposure out there because i know and understand that not a lot of deaf, even hearing people don't understand about Muslims and Islam. So i put the video out there as my way of saying "hey, it's okay to ask questions, I will do my best to answer them, go ahead." My blog post was accepted onto DeafRead at 1:06am according to my aggregator.
I woke up this morning feeling great that I had made that post. It was a semi-accomplishment for me. Anyway, I checked YouTube first to react to the comments, all positive, yay! Then I checked DeafRead to see how many people from DeafRead went to the post here since I had seen it had been posted. It had been taken off the site.
Why censor something so important that I'm giving information to other deaf who don't really know about Muslims, just like their hearing counterparts? I'm trying to help the community. Isn't that what we are all here for?
I woke up this morning feeling great that I had made that post. It was a semi-accomplishment for me. Anyway, I checked YouTube first to react to the comments, all positive, yay! Then I checked DeafRead to see how many people from DeafRead went to the post here since I had seen it had been posted. It had been taken off the site.
Why censor something so important that I'm giving information to other deaf who don't really know about Muslims, just like their hearing counterparts? I'm trying to help the community. Isn't that what we are all here for?
Saturday, January 26, 2008
Your Deaf Muslim Sister
Many people have asked me why I am Muslim and I've gotten some really rude comments from both hearing and deaf. If you have any questions at all regarding Muslims, please ask. I'll do my best to answer them. Please support your Deaf Muslim Sister!
Friday, January 25, 2008
Deaf, Muslim, and Darned Proud
I've been searching an awful lot on the internet today and yesterday and I can't seem to find a good sign for Muslim or Islam. The most interesting one I found was in Dutch Sign Language:
http://www.gebarencentrum.nl/videos/gids/43426.mpg
Currently, I'm leaning toward that sign, or the 2nd sign in my video blog (if you haven't checked it out, please do so).
Please send me a vlog, let me know what your sign is for Muslim or Islam! I'd really like to identify myself without my sign being two m+bomb :(
http://www.gebarencentrum.nl/videos/gids/43426.mpg
Currently, I'm leaning toward that sign, or the 2nd sign in my video blog (if you haven't checked it out, please do so).
Please send me a vlog, let me know what your sign is for Muslim or Islam! I'd really like to identify myself without my sign being two m+bomb :(
Re-reading History
Last night for my reading, I decided to go back into my list of deaf books and re-read "Train Go Sorry" by Leah Hager Cohen. I haven't picked this book up since I finished reading it for an assignment in high school. I'm 25 now. Ouch! So it was time to pick it up again. I don't think the first time I read it, I understood that in the beginning of the book, Leah was hearing and telling of her experiences acquiring language at the Lexington school. The ease at which she didn't know she was picking up sign, just that she was. I felt that same experience when I walked into my first ASL class. It was a sigh of relief. I finally could use a language i was being understood in. I can speak perfectly, was raised hearing, realized I lost some hearing later in life. i have a strong connection to ASL though. I can express myself in ASL like i can't in English. Once I found ASL, I was truly free. I only made it through the 1st chapter of the book last night, but I'm eager to re-read what I had missed the first time. I'm sure it's as amazing as what I felt last night.
Thursday, January 24, 2008
Pah! For PepsiCo!
Today, PepsiCo and Lay's Potato Chips announced that during the pre-game show on FOX sport of the Superbowl on February 3rd, they will air a 60-second advertisement entirely in ASL. There will be Open Caption for the ASL-Impaired.
The ad will feature some deaf employees by the company, which makes me very proud. They didn't not hire actors to fill the places of workers.
Coming out of yesterday hearing stories about Steak and Shake doing wrong, it's nice to see a company, a very large one, to be doing very well for the community. Recently I had seen a Sprint commercial, both the girl and father are deaf we are told in text, but the only signs we see are the ILY.
Here, we can see on a big stage, in front of everyone, a good ad for a good company, and a great community who are striving to keep the language alive.
The ad will feature some deaf employees by the company, which makes me very proud. They didn't not hire actors to fill the places of workers.
Coming out of yesterday hearing stories about Steak and Shake doing wrong, it's nice to see a company, a very large one, to be doing very well for the community. Recently I had seen a Sprint commercial, both the girl and father are deaf we are told in text, but the only signs we see are the ILY.
Here, we can see on a big stage, in front of everyone, a good ad for a good company, and a great community who are striving to keep the language alive.
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
The Deaf Label
Labels and I have never really mixed. Growing up, I was never the "in" crowd, but I wasn't an outcast either. Now that I have been diagnosed with significant hearing loss, things have started to get more difficult, not easier.
I grew up H/hearing but had many problems due to ear infections, which led to ear tubes, drainage, and scaring. I think this contributed largely to my hearing loss. In my Junior year of high school, they offered American Sign Language as a foreign language, so I took it and loved every minute of it. I was top of my class for both years in ASL and went on to continue my studies at Seattle Central Community College.
There is where I learned about Deaf culture and what the label of "deaf" meant. It seemed clear then. Today I sit and think about it constantly. I'm very proficient in ASL, to the point where when I get angry, I can't even speak anymore, I just sign. I have "deaf speak" among people that I know. But yet I fear that since I grew up H/hearing, I will always be seen as hearing. I know I'm not Deaf. But am I deaf? I can talk. I can't hear some things, and need aids. What makes me hearing? I've immersed myself in culture so deep, then found out I've got significant loss. Am I to suffer the same fate as those with CI's?
Please send me your comments, suggestions, anything. I really want to know what you guys have to say about my situation. Thanks.
I grew up H/hearing but had many problems due to ear infections, which led to ear tubes, drainage, and scaring. I think this contributed largely to my hearing loss. In my Junior year of high school, they offered American Sign Language as a foreign language, so I took it and loved every minute of it. I was top of my class for both years in ASL and went on to continue my studies at Seattle Central Community College.
There is where I learned about Deaf culture and what the label of "deaf" meant. It seemed clear then. Today I sit and think about it constantly. I'm very proficient in ASL, to the point where when I get angry, I can't even speak anymore, I just sign. I have "deaf speak" among people that I know. But yet I fear that since I grew up H/hearing, I will always be seen as hearing. I know I'm not Deaf. But am I deaf? I can talk. I can't hear some things, and need aids. What makes me hearing? I've immersed myself in culture so deep, then found out I've got significant loss. Am I to suffer the same fate as those with CI's?
Please send me your comments, suggestions, anything. I really want to know what you guys have to say about my situation. Thanks.
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