VOLUME 40, NO. 3 ■ FALL 2009 WORLD
Technology News and Commentary for Deaf and Hard of Hearing People
A New Beginning
NETWORKING
RECOGNITION In the Nation’s Story begins on page 10 Capital PROGRAM
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TDI WORLD 1 TDI’S MISSION “TDI provides leadership in achieving equal access to telecommunications, media, and information technologies for deaf and hard of hearing people.” WORLD Volume 40, Number 3 FEATURE ARTICLES Summer 2009 Editor-in-Chief: Claude Stout Managing Editor: James House Advertising: Chad Metcalf Publication Production: Electronic Ink A New Beginning in the Nation’s Capitol ...... pg 10 TDI BOARD OF DIRECTORS NORTHEAST REGION 2009 TDI Awards ...... pg 28 Phil Jacob (NJ) [email protected] TDI Mourns the Passing of TTY Pioneer, Dr. James Marsters ...... pg 30 SOUTHEAST REGION Fred Weiner (MD), Vice President NEWS FLASH! (Senate Introduces Companion Bill to H.R. 3101) ...... pg 29 [email protected] MIDWEST REGION Stephanie Buell (WI) [email protected] REGULAR COLUMNS CENTRAL REGION Rebecca Rosenthal (KS) [email protected] WEST REGION Judy Viera (CA) BOARD VIEWS by Dr. Roy Miller, TDI President ...... pg 2 [email protected] Washington: Where Access Begins MEMBERS-AT-LARGE Dr. Roy E. Miller, President [email protected] CAPITOL COMMENTARY by Claude Stout, TDI Executive Director ...... pg 4 Joe Duarte, Treasurer [email protected] Staying in Touch with the Rest of the World Carol Sliney, Secretary [email protected] ACCESSIBLE TECH by James House, TDI World Editor ...... pg 8 EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR ClaudeStout•[email protected] HR #3101 – What’s in It For You? PUBLIC RELATIONS DIRECTOR JamesHouse•[email protected] TDI IN ACTION July–August 2009 ...... pg 32 CEPIN PROGRAM DIRECTOR TDI Membership Form ...... pg 36 NeilMcDevitt•[email protected] ADVERTISING MANAGER & MEMBER SERVICES OFFICER ChadMetcalf•[email protected]
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www.tdi-online.org - www.cepintdi.org Contact TDI WORLD Managing Editor for reprints of articles in PDF format. TELEPHONES: Voice: ...... 301-589-3786 TDI WORLD is published quarterly by TDI to provide information about telecommunications, media Video: ...... 71.166.174.51 or 301-563-9112 and information technology access for people who are deaf, late-deafened, hard of hearing and deaf- TTY: ...... Toll Free 888-202-1120 blind. You may freely copy and distribute all or portions of TDI WORLD for non-commercial use with credit FAX: ...... 301-589-3797 given to TDI. TDI has no affi liation with any company advertised, and the mention of company names, TDI eNotes productsandservicesinthearticleshereincomessolelyfromtheauthors’ownexperiencesanddoes To subscribe to , send an email to [email protected] not imply accuracy nor endorsement by TDI. Furthermore, TDI does not warrant any products or services mentioned in TDI WORLD to be in compliance with any applicable federal, state or local disability access laws and regulations or industry standards. 2 TDI WORLD
BoardViews
Washington: Where Access Begins BY DR. ROY MILLER TDI President he 18th TDI Biennial analog landline telecommunications International Conference network to a digital world built T was held at the Renaissance around the Internet. The session Mayflower Hotel in Washington, also included the presentation of the HR 3101 is a bill that DC last summer, and it’s theme was TDI 2009 Karen Peltz-Strauss Public appropriately “Washington: Where Policy awards to Representative would amend the Access Begins.” Honoring that theme, Edward Markey from Massachusetts TDI was able to do something at this (sponsor of HR 3101) and Senator Communications Act past Conference that had never been John McCain for their many years of done – at least not to the knowledge legislative service to improve access for to add new consumer of present Board members. It took Americans with hearing loss. advantage of the Conference location After the award presentations and to engage in its principal activity, panel presentations concluded, TDI protections that will namely to put “boots on the ground” and an army of supporters broke and advocate for improved access for into eight advocacy teams to visit ensure that people deaf and hard of hearing people. the offices of twenty-four of the The Conference opened on Wednesday Representatives who are members with disabilities do night with a keynote speech by Mr. of the House Committee on Energy Kareem Dale, Special Assistant to and Commerce, the Committee to not get left behind the President for Disability Policy. which HR 3101 has been assigned. The opening ceremony was held on Each team was lead by a member of as telephones and Wednesday night to allow for a special the TDI Board of Directors, and at event on Capitol Hill the following each of the offices that they visited television programming morning. The Thursday morning they explained why HR 3101 was session was held in the Caucus Room needed in order to provide continued of the Cannon House Office Building, telecommunications and media increasingly rely on and featured a panel of experts and a access for deaf and hard of hearing panel of consumers explaining what Americans. So what would HR 3101 digital and Internet the 21st Century Communications and do, and why is it important enough for Video Accessibility Act of 2009 (HR TDI to dedicate half a day out of its Protocol (IP) 3101) was all about, and why it was Conference to advocate for its passage critically needed to ensure that people by Congress? technologies. with hearing loss do not get left behind as society marches away from an Continued on page 3 TDI WORLD 3
BOARDVIEWSContinuedfrompage2 HR 3101 is a bill that would amend Today there are many smaller Currently only common carriers the Communications Act to add new size devices that display TV who use the Public Switched consumer protections that will ensure programming, such as PDAs, Telephone Network (PSTN) that people with disabilities do not computers, iPods, MP3 players, and VoIP service providers are get left behind as telephones and cell phones, DVD players, TIVO required to contribute to the television programming increasingly devices, and battery operated TVs. Interstate Relay Fund, but Internet rely on digital and Internet Protocol enabled relay services (such as 3. HR 3101 would require (IP) technologies. Some of the things VRS and IP relays) are rapidly that distributors of video that HR 3101 would do, if passed, growing. programming over the Internet and the reasons why these new legal pass through closed captioning requirements are needed, are as To ensure a healthy Interstate that is already covered by the follows: Relay Fund, and the continuance FCC’s closed captioning rules. of relay services for people with 1. HR 3101 would extend FCC hearing loss, it is essential that all requirements to ensure that When TV networks re-run their Internet enabled relay services people who have a disability and TV programs over the Internet, contribute to the Fund. use relay services can use those those programs would have to be services to communicate with captioned to the same extent that These are just some of the provisions of other people who have disabilities, they are required to be captioned HR 3101 and reasons why its passage that is, connect one form of relay on TV. is important for deaf and hard of service to another form of relay hearing people. TDI is working with service. When websites like Hulu run TV the Coalition of Organizations for shows over the Internet, those Accessible Technologies (COAT) in Today the FCC interprets shows would have to be captioned its efforts to get HR 3101 enacted into current law to only allow relay to the same extent that they are law. But we need all the help we can conversations between people required to be captioned on TV. get! What can you do? Contact your with disabilities and people U.S. Representative and urge him or 4. HR 3101 would require easy without disabilities. her to join in our struggle for access access to user interfaces (controls) and co-sponsor HR 3101, as well on video programming devices by HR 3101 would allow a late- as vote for it when the opportunity people with disabilities. deafened person who uses CapTel arises. Contact your U.S. Senators and
Internet Relay to phone a deaf urge them to co-sponsor S.3304, the Today television sets have become person who uses VRS, or a deaf companion bill in the Senate. You can very complex, and it is often grandparent who uses a TTY find out more about HR 3101, sign difficult to figure out how to turn to communicate with their deaf a petition in support of the bill, and on and control captions on the grandchild who uses VRS. keep up-to-date regarding its progress new, snazzy digital HDTV sets by visiting the COAT website (www. 2. HR 3101 would require closed that everyone wants to buy. coataccess.org). As the Conference captioning decoder circuitry in theme said, “Washington” is “Where all video programming devices, HR 3101 would require Access Begins,” and passage of HR 3101 including PDAs, computers, manufacturers to put a CC or S 3304 is critical to maintaining iPods, cell phones, DVD players, button on all remotes to easily access for people with hearing loss in TIVO devices, and battery turn captions on and off, and to a digital world that revolves around operated TVs. put captioning settings at the top the Internet. Help us, and help level of on-screen menus to easily deaf and hard of hearing people, by The Decoder Circuitry Act of change them. advocating for Congress to enact 1990 only requires that TVs 5. HR 3101 would require all the 21st Century Communications with screens 13 inches or Internet enabled relay service and Video Accessibility Act of 2009 larger diagonally be capable of providers to contribute to the or the Equal Access to 21st Century displaying closed captions. Interstate Relay Fund. Communications Act.
4 TDI WORLD
CapitolCommentary Staying in Touch with the Rest of the World
t was good to see so many of our Secretariat for the Joint Coordination friends at the TDI Conference in Activity on Accessibility and Human IWashington, DC last summer. As Factors, as well as the Internet you will see from the rest of this issue, Governance Forum Dynamic Coalition we felt the Conference was among the on Accessibility and Disability. best that we have ever had in TDI’s In their presentation at the TDI forty-one year history. Please let us Conference, the three presenters traced know what you liked most about the ITU’s historical efforts concerning Conference, and how we can improve accessibility, and covered briefly its for the next Conference (definitely accomplishments that benefit citizens BY CLAUDE STOUT one improvement would be better TDI Executive Director with disabilities from all over the world. control over the air conditioning in the They also spoke of their current efforts meeting rooms!). to develop standards that support For this issue, I will be focusing citizens who are deaf and hard of on TDI’s ongoing efforts with hearing in their access to the Internet. other countries for accessibility of Check the link to ITU’s accessibility As we maintain telecommunications, media and efforts, http://www.itu.int/themes/ information technology. One of the key accessibility/. We were glad to have relations with other highlights of last summer’s Conference this presentation at the Conference was the plenary session on developing for a number of reasons. First, as countries, we are and maintaining global accessibility the saying goes, “Think globally. Act standards by the International locally.” Nowadays, with current Telecommunications Union (ITU). technologies, we are able to get in building on each The three presenters for this topic were touch much easier with our contacts Andrea Saks, Cynthia Waddell and abroad. In the past, we made landline other’s progress Alessandra Gaspair. The daughter of calls to our contacts in other countries. Andrew Saks, one of the three men who Nevertheless, today we send email and in accessible started the TTY movement, Andrea instant messages, or make peer-to- Saks has represented TDI for many peer and relay calls to others outside years at meetings of the ITU. Over the America. Second, we were anxious to technology and years, she has met with representatives learn from them concerning what new and engineers from other countries technologies their countries have for accompanying in an effort to develop international their citizens with disabilities, as well as standards in accessibility, first new accessibility laws and regulations legislation as well concerning the text telephone (TTY), that enable deaf and hard of hearing and now to ensure that we benefit people to participate more fully in the as regulation from text, voice and video technologies community. Last, but not least, we when communicating via the Internet shared with them information on our to get information via peer-to-peer current technologies and accessibility contacts or relay service. Recognized regulations. internationally in the field of electronic TDI has three members on the Board of and information technology for Directors that have a lot of experience people with disabilities, Ms. Waddell is in international relations and disability Executive Director of the International access. Judy Viera lived for a number Center for Disability Resources on the Internet. Ms. Gaspari is ITU’s Continuedonpage6 TDI WORLD 5 6 TDI WORLD
CAPItOlCOmmEntARyContinuedfrompage4 As we maintain relations with Ireland. In 2004, I went to Sweden other countries, we are building on and met Gunnar Hellström’s son. He of years in the United Kingdom, each other’s progress in accessible had a cell phone with video capability where she worked for Ultratec from its technology and accompanying and introduced me to his friend on his London headquarters on the sale and legislation as well as regulations. This phone. This was over five years ago, distribution of its text-phone products. keeps us from “reinventing the wheel,” and we still do not have this live two- She has traveled extensively around and we learn about what works, and way video capability on cell phones the world to provide consultation on what does not for a particular country. here in America. technology access issues. Joe Duarte At times, I am clearly impressed with While deaf and hard of hearing people was born in Portugal, but he now lives the technology used by deaf and hard in America and other countries have and works here in America. He goes of hearing people in other countries. different cultures and languages, we to Portugal at least once a year, to work When I took part in a World Deaf Golf share at least two things. We use with the Portuguese government in an Federation tournament in Ireland in similar accessible technologies to effort to make life accessible for deaf 2002, I was on the putting green with participate fully in the community and hard of hearing people. Like Ms. an official from the Australia Deaf Golf through pagers, cell phones, relay Viera, Dr. Roy Miller has presented on Association. I saw him take out a pager, services, computers and television. In technology access issues at a number and then send a message to someone. I addition, like our hearing peers, we of Conferences including the World asked him if he was sending something must have the means to communicate Federation of the Deaf (WFD), and the to his fellow teammate on the golf and get information every day. To International Federation of Hard of course. He said, “No,” he was chatting paraphrase a popular song, “We Are Hearing People (IFHOH). I took part with his wife a half world away in The The World.” TDI is committed to in the International Forum of the Deaf Land Down Under. The conversation collaborate with consumer advocates in Fez, Morocco two years ago with was made possible by the GMS and other stakeholders from other Dr. Yerker Andersson, a former WFD technology in his pager. Back then, countries to build a better future for our President. I did not have this technology in my constituents. pager, and could not use my pager in
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Accessibletech HR 3101 – What’s in It For You? ome of us read about HR with hearing and vision disabilities #3101 in TDI World and many when they use telecommunications or Sother publications. Some of other information technology. When us have never heard of HR 3101. If Congress wrote the Telecommunications passed, this bill, which is known as Act in 1996 (Telecom Act), the law was the 21st Century Communications and interpreted to mean it applied only to Video Accessibility Act should go far the existing technology at the time. in updating communications law and Just a few short years later in the 21st creating more accessibility for people Century, many parts of that law are now who are deaf, hard of hearing, late- as obsolete as the analog technology that deafened and deaf-blind. What is it? it addresses. Why is it important? What’s in it for We did not foresee the immense us? What can we do? popularity of the Internet and how the BY JAMES HOUSE What is HR 3101? World Wide Web became intertwined TDI World Editor with nearly every major activity that we HR 3101 is a “nickname” for a bill that participate in. See the list below. has been introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives. The bill as introduced This list can go on and on. Most of by Edward Markey, a Congressman from us can agree that the Americans with Massachusetts is called the Twenty-First Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Telecom Century Communications and Video Act have produced many benefits for Just a few short Accessibility Act of 2009. people with disabilities. It is equally obvious that the Internet has a major years later in the Why is HR 3101 important? influence on our lives today, even to TDI and nearly 300 other organizations the point where it blurs political and serving people with disabilities support geographical boundaries. While we 21st Century, many this bill because they see an urgent need, enjoy the digital revolution, we are parts of that law which makes it necessary for Congress to reminded of the limitations of analog pass a law that meets the needs of people Continued on page 9 [Telecommunications Activity 1996 Today – Now we… Act of 1996] are now Banking Local banks Do most of our banking and investments online. Pay bills Checks and postage Pay bills instantaneously at the click of a mouse. as obsolete as the Write letters Paper and pen Email and do instant messages from a computer or a phone Photos Camera and film Create, edit and share photos digitally analog technology Travel Travel agents Reserve our own plane tickets, hotel and car rental. Driving Paper maps Get directions and know when we will arrive at our destination. that it addresses. Gifts Gift shops Order ordinary and exotic gifts online from anywhere. Taxes IRS Form 1040 File electronically and hopefully get a refund in a few days. Business Brick and mortar Buy and sell using web classified ads or create websites Computer Desktop Have laptops and wireless devices that do multiple functions. Software Buy at store Download software and keep up-to-date as needed. Relay calls Phone/TTY Enjoy functional equivalency with voice, text and video Telephones Landline analog Digital phones transmit voice, data and video over the air News Newspaper/TV Keep informed up to the minute at media websites Television TV set Watch TV shows on “smart phones” or through the Internet Movies Videotapes/DVDs Download and watch movie videos IF they are captioned. TDI WORLD 9
ACCESSIBlEtEChContinued from page 8 the Internet increased in capacity, the Internet (Current law: Section people took advantage of the higher 255 requires telecommunications technology, especially in the last broadband speeds to watch television products and services to be four areas (news, movies, relay calls, over the Internet, discontinue direct accessible but does not extend to television and telephones). cable television service and just pay for the Internet) Internet access. Again, the hair-splitting Generally, the industry is in favor of ■ Adds improved accountability and fewer regulations on the Internet as arises as cable providers argue that the enforcement measures, including compared with legacy services received public spectrum is not being used so a clearinghouse and reporting through telephone lines or over the air. they should not have to go through obligations by providers and Telephone services were regulated state- the expense of maintaining multiple manufacturers by-state and phone subscribers used to licensing requirements. ■ Requires telephone products used pay an assortment of fees for different At the time the Telecom Act was additional services such as Universal with the Internet to be hearing aid rewritten it was a good law, but compatible (HAC) (Current law: Service Fund subsidies, TRS, 911 service not future-proof. Rapidly evolving and other state and local fees. When HAC required on all wireline and technology made the law obsolete many wireless phones) the Internet came along, Voice-over even before the ink was dry. TDI does Internet protocol (VoIP) providers understand the benefits of having ■ Allows use of Lifeline and Link-up split hairs by saying – since we are not a single nationwide rule-setting universal service funds (USF) for using the regular telephone lines, we mechanism such as the FCC, and not broadband connection and service should not have to collect all the little the confusing patchwork quilt of state (Current law: Discounts only taxes and fees as the record keeping and local regulations. Rather than available for products and services would be too cumbersome. As a result, focusing on specific technologies that on public telephone network) 911 services and relay services become make things work, the regulations ■ Allocates up to $10 million/year for underfunded as everyone ditches the should have focused on the functions equipment used by people who are older landlines in favor of wireless and that we enjoy from the law. The reason deaf-blind (Currently: Inadequate VoIP technologies. we saw relay evolving the way it did state programs that distribute The same thing applies to television. was that the Telecom Act mandated some free or discounted telephone The FCC has jurisdiction over television functional equivalency and encouraged equipment, but little available for and radio because they need to allocate innovation in relay services. people who are deaf-blind) Nevertheless, it is unfortunate that the spectrum for different purposes. ■ functional equivalency mandate did Clarifies the scope of relay services The digital television transition of to include calls between and among 2009 was one example of reassigning not extend to other life activities. The industry also favors fewer regulations people with disabilities and requires the airwaves to take advantage of Internet-based service providers to in the vain hopes that the marketplace better efficiencies offered by digital contribute to the Interstate Relay will spur access for users with broadcasting as you could show more Fund channels or higher quality channels disabilities while history has repeatedly in less space than the old analog shown that access comes only after laws ■ Requires FCC to develop real-time broadcasts. Unlike the telephone are enacted. text digital standards to replace TTY communications network, licensing is done entirely by Benefits of HR 3101 the FCC with several obligations and Video Programming Access rules designed to help the broadcaster HR 3101 attempts to extend the serve its local community. However, accessibility requirements we enjoy ■ Requires caption decoder circuitry since the airwaves could not carry under the ADA and the Telecom Act or display capability in all video the television signals uniformly, cable into Internet technologies. According programming devices, including television dominates the landscape. to the Coalition of Organizations for PDAs, computers, iPods, cell Cable providers compete for franchises Accessible Technologies (COAT), there phones, DVD players, TiVo devices to serve different jurisdictions. Very are two parts in HR 3101 as listed and battery-operated TVs (Current few jurisdictions award more than below… (list from www.coataccess.org) law: Caption decoder circuitry is only required on TVs with screens one company a franchise to serve Communications Access that town or county – creating a local at least 13 inches) monopoly that aggravate viewers with ■ Requires access to phone-type price hikes and declining services. As equipment and services used over Continuedonpage31 10 TDI WORLD A New Beginning in the Nation’s Capitol
BY JIM HOUSE
he 18th Biennial TDI International Conference took T place at the historic Renaissance Mayfl ower Hotel (Th e Mayfl ower) in downtown Washington, DC at the end of July 2009. Th is article gives you a bird’s eye view of what it is like to be in a TDI Conference. First, we begin with an overview of the “nest”, the Mayfl ower hotel, which has ties to many historical events, including one that made a tremendous impact on our advocacy eff orts that show no signs of abating. From an inspiring keynote speech by a high-ranking White House offi cial that kicked off the conference, to an empowering rite of passage that every American citizen should participate in, there was some thing for everyone at the conference. Th at was only just the fi rst 24 hours of the premier gathering of people who wish to shape an accessible world where telecommunications, media and information technology and are all usable in the hands of every person seeking connections. Th en as you fl y through the rest of this article, you will want to peek through each doorway where you can see all the fun and informative activities at the conference. And along the way we recognize individuals and companies for their outstanding support of TDI toward shaping an accessible world. Th e Mayfl ower Hotel is the largest luxury hotel in the U.S. capital according to Wikipedia. Nicknamed the “Grande Dame of Washington” at its opening in 1925, the hotel was said to contain more gold trim than any other building except
Continuedonpage12 TDI WORLD 11 12 TDI WORLD
New Beginning from previous page the Library of Congress. One of our fraction of today’s rates. “We have nothing to fear but fear offi cial Conference photographers, itself” inaugural address while as Th e Mayfl ower has hosted Steve Brenner reported that his a guest. His successor Harry S. a presidential inauguration ball parents spent their honeymoon at the Truman resided there for the fi rst 90 for every President since Calvin Mayfl ower in March 1931 when room days of his presidential term while Coolidge. Franklin D. rates were $7.00 per night, certainly a the White House was undergoing Roosevelt worked on his famous renovations. FBI Director, J. Edgar Hoover ate lunch with his number two lieutenant, Clyde Tolson at the Mayfl ower almost daily for more than twenty years, and legend has it that he once nabbed a “Top Ten Most Wanted” fugitive at a nearby table in the hotel. Aside from being the scene of several political milestones and scandals, one particular milestone marked a turning point in the history of civil rights for people with disabilities. On March 6, 1988, more than one year before the fi rst Deaf Way, deaf and hard of hearing students at Gallaudet University became upset when they learned that the Board of Trustees had picked a hearing woman with no background in deafness to lead the school over two seasoned deaf candidates. Th e mob took to the streets and marched down to the Mayfl ower Hotel to confront the Board during its meeting. Th e Chair of the Board, Jane Bassett Spilman came out the back entrance to speak to the angry throng of students and alumni, and to defend the Board’s selection. In her speech, Ms. Spilman was widely quoted as saying, “Deaf people are not yet ready to function in a hearing world.” Although she has denied making such a statement, that speech along with the refusal of the student body to accept a hearing president led to a week long shutdown of the University. As the students chanted “Deaf President Now”, this protest captured the attention of presidential candidates as well as the U.S. Congress and the entire nation. On the following Sunday evening the student leaders got a TTY call, and they Renaissancemayflowerhotel,siteofthe18thBiennialtDIInternationalConference Continuedonpage13 TDI WORLD 13
New Beginning from previous page learned that the Board of Trustees had Recht, Business Manager. that President Obama understands that agreed to all four of their demands. if you don’t have people at the table I. King Jordan became the fi rst deaf Th e theme, “Washington: Where who themselves live with disabilities, president, Ms. Spilman resigned from Access Begins” inspired many fi rsts for and who know what it means to be a the Board, and they were doubly elated TDI. Th e Conference had its opening person with a disability, then you aren’t Kareem to fi nd thatPhil Bravin, the caller was night the evening of July 29. getting the type of representation for M. Dale the fi rst deaf chair of the Board. Th is , Special Assistant to the the community that you need. historic TTY call ended with a President for Disability Policy was the “I’m humbled and honored that he commitment to achieve a majority of fi rst high-level White House offi cial chose me for that appointment,” Dale deaf or hard of hearing trustees, and to present a keynote speech at a TDI said. “But what is great about this assurances of no reprisals for students conference. President is that he did not stop. He or staff regarding the protest. Cheryl Heppner As reported, during realized that one person is not enough.” JULY 29, 2009 – OPENING EVENTS the keynote speech, Mr. Dale outlined the President’s agenda for people with President Obama has made several Once again, the Mayfl ower Hotel disabilities. A decision was made at other appointments to ensure became the site of new trends and the White House that the best way that, across the board, people with another milestone in our march to impact the lives of individuals disabilities -- including those who are toward equal access. In the grand with disabilities is to bring about deaf or hard-of-hearing -- have an hallway, early arrivals completed their needed changes. President Barack equal shot to be a part of the change registration with ease, all because of the Obama‘s fi rst appointment was Mr. that he wants to bring about. To this able assistance from Gloria Carter, Dale as Special Assistant for Disability end, he appointed Paul Miller to be a TDI Executive Secretary, Chad Policy, a senior position at the White Special Assistant to the President in the Metcalf, Advertising Manager and House. Th e President has sought White House Offi ce of Personnel, to Member Service Offi cer andScott individuals capable and prepared to carry out his agenda. Mr. Dale said Continuedonpage14
Entranceofthemayflowerhotel lobbyofthemayflowerhotel
OneteamofadvocatesledbyJoeDuartevisitCongres- sionalofficestogarnersupportforhR3101.Froml-R JoeDuarte(VA),meredithFiliatreault(Interpreter),Dot Brenner(mD),GaryViall(VA),DonnaGraffe(VA)andtoni neilmcDevittescortsKareemDaletotheballroomforhis ArtRoehrigasksaquestionofmr.Daleduringthekeynote Dunne (CO). keynotespeech speech 14 TDI WORLD
New Beginning from previous page ensure that persons with disabilities are Following the speech, TDI Executive ◊ National Association of included and integrated into the overall Director, Claude Stout and the Broadcasters efforts in appointments. He also Conference Chairpersons, Joe ◊ National Emergency Number appointed Jeff Crowley to be national Duarte and Fred Weiner gratefully Association AIDS Director and a senior advisor on acknowledged the generosity of ◊ Sprint Relay senior policy in the Domestic Policy the following sponsors during ◊ Williams Sound Council. Mr. Dale and Mr. Crowley the remainder of the Opening share responsibility on disability Night Ceremony and gave those JULY 30, 2009 – DAY 1 – policies. Mr. Crowley leads the effort representatives that were present an LEGISLATION DAY on health care and Mr. Dale leads on opportunity to say a few words. Another first for this TDI Conference education, technology, employment TDI gratefully acknowledges these was a field trip the next morning and several other areas. sponsors that made this conference to the Capitol. First, Fred Weiner, Two other examples he cited of things possible. TDI Board member and conference being done to include the deaf and program co-chair, led a brief ■ The US Capitol hard of hearing community: TDI awards ceremony honoring ◊ AT&T Senator John McCain (R-AZ) and - The appointment of Julius ◊ Verizon Representative Edward Markey Genachowski to the Federal (D-MA) with the Karen Peltz Communications Commission, “a huge ■ The White House Strauss Public Policy Award for leap for this community” and a change ◊ Purple Communications their lifelong dedication to advancing in focus and consideration and a full ◊ Ultratec civil rights for people with disabilities. implementation of the efforts of the ■ Afterwards, Ms. Peltz Strauss FCC toward people with disabilities. The Washington Monument ◊ National Technical Institute of moderated a panel discussion of Mr. Dale said of Genachowski, “He the Deaf at Rochester Institute experts including David Bahar from is committed to strengthening the of Technology the office of Representative Jay Disability Office of the FCC and ◊ Sorenson Communications Inslee (D-WA) and Mark Richert working with this community at of the American Foundation of the every level to improve technology and ■ The Lincoln Memorial Blind. ThenRosaline Crawford of communications access for people with ◊ Gallaudet University the National Association of the Deaf disabilities, including those who are ◊ Hamilton Relay led a separate panel of consumers deaf or hard of hearing.” ◊ Research In Motion including Lise Hamlin, Randy (BlackBerry) Pope, Alfred Sonnenstrahl A commitment by the White House ◊ Snap!VRS and John Stanton, that focused for an open dialogue on the 21st on the potential impact of the Century Communications and Video ■ The Jefferson Memorial 21st Century Communications and Accessibility Act, listening to the ◊ CaptionMAX Video Accessibility Act or HR 3101. community and figuring out where ◊ Consumer Electronics it can improve addressing these Association important issues. ◊ Maryland Relay Continuedonpage16
CherylheppnerandPamholmesontheDigitaltelevision COAtSteeringCommittee(l-R)JeniferSimpson,Karen Seanhayes,microsoftCorporation transitionForum PeltzStrauss,RosalineCrawfordandEricBridges TDI WORLD 15 16 TDI WORLD
New Beginning from page 14
Later, eight teams of conference would say its better to watch a Pamela Holmes, Consumer participants fanned throughout the football game on digital TV than (Madison, Wisconsin) Capitol complex and visited the offices to go to the game itself because of 24 House Representatives to seek you as the viewer would get up real Pam Holmes was a panelist at the additional cosponsors for HR 3101. close, you can even see the players digital television and captioning sweat. On this panel were industry workshop held at the TDI Conference The last time TDI had its conference leaders and consumer advocates in California in 2007. There she in the Nation's Capitol was in including Ann Bobeck (National showed a video clip and talked about 1989 in conjunction with the first Association of Broadcasters), Pam some problems she was experiencing Deaf Way hosted by Gallaudet Holmes (Consumer from Madison, with digital captioning. Curious University. Twenty years ago, Deaf Wisconsin), Brian Markwalter about how her television captioning Way was the first gathering of its (Consumer Electronics Association), experiences back then compare with kind with thousands of deaf and Andy Scott (National Cable those she has today, I asked her to hard of hearing attendees from all Television Association) and Chris present an update for the forum. Pam over the world. The week-long event Soukup (Communication Services came with a series of home movie celebrated international Deaf Culture for the Deaf). Just how to access those clips she filmed recently to document and its unique history, language and new features at first was a mystery to her current captioning problems. She cultural achievements with workshops many early adopters in the audience focused on problems that she had focusing on advocacy, education, that took the plunge to take advantage heard were being experienced not just family life, the arts and dozens of of all these “wow” features and yet in her state of Wisconsin but also in other topics. TDI coordinated a series encountered captioning problems. California, Texas, Alabama, Florida, of workshops focusing on accessible In place of Line 21 or standard New Jersey, New York and elsewhere. technology such as 9-1-1 access, relay white lettering on black boxes, its services and local news captioning. Two years ago, Pam was seeing mostly digital counterpart now comes with captions where two lines were overlaid. The TDI Conference’s regular routine a palette of different options for Since then, without making any of plenary sessions and workshops adjustment. For the first time, you changes to her TV setup, the problem began in the afternoon. Cheryl can adjust the style, color and size of went away. Now she is seeing problems Heppner had the honor of moderating characters, color and transparency she has never seen before. These the first plenary session that covered of the background, or just take in problems included delayed captions, an all-important topic. The nation’s the captions as they are transmitted. garbled captions, captions that are television infrastructure had just But as we learned, there are so many missing letters or words, and lines of completed its transition from different configurations for captioning captions that run right off the screen. analog to digital broadcasting, that each person has to find one that bringing a completely new world of works best for them. As the saying goes, “a picture is worth television. On its way out were the a thousand words” and by that measure Cheryl Heppner introduces the old “boob tubes” of yesteryear as Pam’s videos were worth about 8,000 panelists in the following excerpts households began to replace them words. There were clips of weird from her report on the Digital with sleek panels that you could Television Transition Forum. hang on the wall. Some viewers Continuedonpage18
SeanGerliscatchesupwithnancyBlochatthePresident’s CynthiaWaddell,ElaineAielloandAndreaSakstogetherat hamiltonRelayexhibit Reception atableduringthePresident’sReception TDI WORLD 17 18 TDI WORLD
New Beginning from page 16 captions from Good Morning America, English, American Sign Language, Cathy Seidel, Chief, Consumer and the Michael Jackson memorial service Spanish and Spanish ASL. Their other Governmental Affairs, Bureau Federal and several more programs. After creation was a national help center to Communications Commission showing each clip, Pam asked the provide consumers with live support. audience if they had experienced the Cathy Seidel from the FCC noted that Over the nine months the help desk same problem. The show of hands the Consumer and Governmental was in operation, it interacted with clearly showed she was not alone. Affairs Bureau houses the Disability consumers in three different categories. Rights Office. This office recognized Pam concluded her presentation by The first group of consumers were early in its planning for the digital saying that her questions as a consumer people who were frightened, confused TV transition that there would be were what initiatives are happening by the information they were seeing several key groups that should be to solve these issues, and whether the about the DTV transition, and unsure targeted for education about what the Federal Communication Commission of what they were going to need. transition was, why it was being done, (FCC) technical working group to The second group was consumers who when it would occur, and what to do study digital closed captioning would had issues with equipment such as their to prepare for it. One of the groups address them. She noted that many converter box or television set, or had targeted was people with disabilities. consumers had stopped complaining a problem with their service provider. about their problems with closed The FCC partnered with the Many of these consumers were able to captioning because they had become industry, government agencies, resolve their problems successfully after discouraged that their complaints did service organizations, and nonprofit viewing the instructional videos on the not bring results. She also wanted to organizations to reach consumers CSD website or by interacting with a learn whether there is a requirement about the transition. They awarded live person at the help desk. that captioning be accurate and contracts for additional education properly portray what is being shown. The third group of consumers had to organizations like CSD, and had issues with captioning. This led CSD call center representatives at the FCC Christopher Soukup, CSD to create a national captioning survey who also answered questions from Digital TV Transition Help Desk with input from the FCC, National individuals who are deaf or hard of Chris Soukup shared some of the Center for Accessible Media, National hearing. In addition to questions results from CSD’s work over the past Association of the Deaf and Hearing about captioning, these individuals nine months, working in collaboration Loss Association of America. The had issues that were the same as with the FCC to provide a help center survey was on the help desk’s website others nationwide, such as how to for consumers who are deaf or hard of and has had over 2,000 responses. install their converter box. hearing. The CSD Digital Transition All of those responding to the survey The FCC has had an open docket Help Desk had a marketing and had some type of captioning issue. for a while to look at various outreach campaign to create awareness Half of them had captioning problems captioning issues. In November, 2008 of the digital TV transition and possible all of the time. Sixty-five percent had they released a declaratory ruling issues stemming from it. CSD created experienced out of sync audio, where clarifying that providers, broadcasters, a comprehensive website on the digital the captions didn’t match what they TV transition with information in were seeing onscreen. Continuedonpage19
Ultratec’sCaptel®exhibit Pre-PaidlegalServicesexhibit ResearchInmotionBlackBerryexhibit TDI WORLD 19
New Beginning from previous page and other program distributors were From finding how to turn on Andy Scott, Vice President of required to provide captioning with captioning with the remote control Engineering National Cable and digital television just the same as to trying to figure out how to access Telecommunications Association they would with analog television the captioning through playback, or unless they were covered by other reading about navigating HDMI, Ann Andy, along with his colleagues, exemptions. The FCC also asked in has learned it can be very daunting spends a great deal of time this proceeding for further comments and frustrating. working on closed captioning with on some technical or quality issues members of the National Cable and She found that it took lot of time with captioning. Comments that were Telecommunications Association and patience to work with broadcast received are still being analyzed, and (NCTA). He pointed out that two engineers and learn why there are Cathy said this is a priority issue for aspects of captioning are producing so many technical challenges with the FCC. the captions and sending them. Then captioning. Broadcasters, however, there are cable operators whose Acting Chairman Copps established recognize that it’s their responsibility responsibility is to pass the captions the technical working group as well as good business sense to make on to the consumer. He feels a huge comprised of many talented people sure that captioning works for the amount of effort is being made to who are very versed in captioning estimated 30 to 37 million people who ensure the captions are right. The issues on the consumer side as are deaf or hard of hearing. NCTA welcomes the opportunity to well as the industry side, whether The National Association of improve captioning. it’s software, programming, cable, Broadcasters (NAB) is doing equipment, or another issue. It can Along with the broadcast and several things to meet the technical be very hard to identify where a electronics industries, the cable challenges head on. They have captioning problem lies. The working industry has spent hundreds of hours provided member education. They group will be identifying technical for months and months to prepare for are supportive of a streamlined issues and determining or making the digital transition. Cable companies consumer complaint process with a recommendations to resolve those not only carry the broadcast digital central database or email or phone problems. It may require education services but also in some cases convert number where consumers can easily or development of best practices or a some digital signals back to analog for learn where to report a complaint streamlined way to report problems. certain customers. with captioning and stations can Ann Bobeck, Senior Vice President more quickly respond. Although Andy said that he understands how and Deputy General Counsel National the FCC’s proposed new rules were frustrating it can be to call a cable Association of Broadcasters still being reviewed by the Office operator and get a customer service of Management and Budget at this representative who simply has to Ann Bobeck serves on the FCC’s time, the NAB went ahead and sent forward the question. Right now, a lot Consumer Advisory Committee. a reminder to its members to update of education is going on for members She’s the daughter of a local resident their complaint process. Suggestions of the NCTA to make sure that they who is hard of hearing, and as a for best practices for education at the have the right processes in place and result she knows firsthand about the stations are welcome. problems of accessing captioning. Continued on page 22
Verizonexhibit At&texhibit Snap!VRSexhibit 20 TDI WORLD TDI WORLD 21 22 TDI WORLD
New Beginning from page 19 that any captioning complaints are all of these options there are choices Claude Stout, TDI’s Executive steered to the right person for quick in implementing them that have led Director, testified on behalf of COAT response and resolution. to problems with interoperability. before a House subcommittee on CEA has the 708 standard that Telecommunications and the Internet The cable industry is also taking a fresh defines what digital captions are to regarding the problems that people look at how “this evil device at the end be like, a change from the original with disabilities were experiencing of the chain” – the set-top box -- is 608 captions. Captions now have a during the digital television transition. designed. They are giving more focus richer environment and provide a to making access to the captioning COAT has petitioned the Federal better experience but that can lead capabilities as intuitive as it can be. Communications Commission (FCC) to problems. We no longer have in support of captioned telephone relay a television and antenna with just Brian Markwalter, Vice President of service. Technology, Consumer and Electronics questions of whether the broadcaster Association sent the broadcast right and the TV COAT has had some other successes decoded it right. Now there are set-top with the FCC, including a report in Brian is one of the many individuals in boxes in between and sometimes we May 2007 that clarified how voice the consumer electronics industry who are viewing broadcasts that these boxes over IP (VoIP) services must be made worked on the digital TV transition recorded. accessible to people with disabilities for a long time. He found it to be an that will have an impact on how relay amazing public/private partnership. In another plenary session, the Eric Bridges, services operate. Some good work done early in the executive committee ( Rosaline Crawford, Karen Peltz planning stage was the collaboration More recently, nine COAT affiliates Strauss and Jenifer Simpson with broadcasters to define some of the ) were asked to serve on the FCC’s minimum capabilities of the converter of the Coalition of Organizations technical working group on captioning boxes and the submission of a proposal for Accessible Technology (COAT) and video description of digital to make it reality. That proposal reviewed many accomplishments in television. its first two years that vindicated the included captions. In 2008-2009, Six COAT affiliates are now approximately 43 million converter need for accessible technology. The rapid growth of COAT continues as the represented on the FCC’s Consumer boxes are expected to be sold and in Advisory Committee. the same time frame, about 66 million coalition has welcomed more than two digital televisions. Every one of these hundred international, national, state In the final plenary session of the day, products is ready to receive, decode and local affiliates. It is free for any Sean Hayes gave us an update about and display broadcast captions. business or organization to join COAT, Microsoft’s ongoing efforts to maintain just go to www.coataccess.org. accessibility for users of their products Going digital has freed up spectrum using what they call, “inclusive for public safety and given broadcasters As Cheryl Heppner noted in her report, besides their work on the 21st innovation” that goes beyond universal multiple channels, Brian pointed out. design. As Cheryl Heppner reported, It has also given viewers fantastic Century Communications and Video Accessibility Act, COAT has been Microsoft’s vision is to enable everyone pictures and new capabilities with to meet their full potential regardless of captions. The flip side is that with involved in several other activities. Continued on page 23
Dr.ZgivesadviceatZVRSexhibit DisabilityRightsOfficestaffatFCCexhibit ChadmetcalfwatchesoverthetDIexhibit TDI WORLD 23
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their challenges. As we move into new of computer modems that worked terrorist attacks. worlds with computer applications, between the TeleType machines ■ Mike Monge, a small town fire they seek to keep the entire spectrum and the Ma Bell telephone network. chief who developed emergency of disability needs in the forefront Marsters traveled everywhere in his plans that included students as so no one gets left behind. A study plane to spread the word about the well as others at a nearby deaf Microsoft commissioned in 2003 by TTY to deaf and hard of hearing school in Faribault, Minnesota. Forrester Research found that 57% of people, telecommunication leaders and the population surveyed could benefit government officials. Andrea asked ■ Hilary Styron, who led a team from some accessibility features that that we all take a moment of silence in of investigators that extensively were put into Windows. Marster’s memory. documented the barriers encountered by people with Traditionally, the President’s Reception The program continued as Claude disabilities in the aftermath of is usually a time to mingle and Stout took up the floor and explained hurricane Katrina in 2005 reconnect with friends. Dr. Roy that TDI depends a lot on its friends Miller, President of TDI, saw to it that and colleagues outside the organization ■ Colonel Tom Tucker, a father the food was well prepared and tasty. to help fulfill its mission. For the last of a deaf woman and director People kept going back for more food. few years, we had counted on a number of the National Center on However, this time, there was a short of professionals to help with the CEPIN Biomedical Research and Training program giving overdue recognition project who brought their expertise at Louisiana State University in to several people who have supported in emergency preparedness. Stout, Baton Rouge that partnered with TDI and its Community Emergency Neil McDevitt, CEPIN program CEPIN on its original course Preparedness Information Network director and Michele Roseman, development. (CEPIN) program. CEPIN outreach coordinator presented five honorees with a Chuck Baird JULY 31, 2009 – DAY 2 – But first,Andrea Saks came on the artwork, a painting called “Wolf” INDUSTRY DAY stage with a solemn announcement. which depicts a lone wolf on top of a The last of the original founders of the Since the first part of the day was canyon below a cloud formation of an TTY network, Dr. James Marsters open, some conference participants Indian signing “wolf.” The honorees had passed away just a few days took the time to catch up on their are: before. He was an orthodontist and a sleep, eat a hearty breakfast and have pilot. More importantly, he provided ■ Claudia Gordon, a civil rights a business meeting or two. Many inspiration to Robert Weitbrecht attorney at the U.S. Department other participants browsed the exhibit to develop a way for deaf people of Homeland Security who area and viewed the latest offerings to communicate on the telephone. supported the goals of the CEPIN by relay providers and several other Andrea’s father, Andrew Saks also program from the outset. exhibitors. Other exhibitors not contributed to the development of pictured include: ■ Cheryl Heppner, an author of a the fledging network, lending his report on communication gaps ■ Hearing Loss Association of business acumen to develop APCOM. encountered by deaf people across America APCOM manufactured and sold the the country because of the 9/11 TTY acoustic couplers, the forerunner Continuedonpage24
SafeAwakeproductsondisplay PurpleCommunicationsexhibit KelbyBrickofPurpleCommunicationswasthespeakerfor the Professional Motivational Luncheon 24 TDI WORLD
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■ sComm technology. Real-Time Text (RTT) is people, videophone device porting, yesterday’s TTY functionality in today’s needs of nonsigning deaf and hard of ■ Sorenson Communications digital environment. Vanderheiden hearing consumers, possible captioned In the first workshop of the day, points to the success of this recent telephone relay service mandate and Andrea Saks began with a plenary feature on AOL’s Instant Messaging access to video relay for deaf-blind session on Globalization of system that allows the user to read consumers. Standardization and Making the the other party’s character as they are The TRS Forum consumer panel was International Telecommunication typed, Seeing as they type was one of comprised of a cross-representation Union (ITU) Accessible. Drawing on the most endearing features of Baudot of relay users and communication her childhood experiences witnessing TTYs that transmitted characters preferences, including Amy to be displayed at the time they are the birth of the TTY network, she Bopp, Rachel Dubin, Rebecca continued the work that her father typed. Just like a TTY, or a voice Ladew and Pam Sterwart from Andrew had dedicated his life to, conversation, we are free to interrupt Maryland, David Nelson from the making the international telephone each other rather than waiting District of Columbia and Wayne network accessible to deaf and hard for the “GA.” Vanderheiden and Roorda from New Jersey. On of hearing people, by representing Âström described several applications the government panel, officials TDI as an “ambassador” to ITU since that further exploit the usefulness and from the Federal Communications 1991. Two other ladies joined her in potential of text communications and Commission, National Exchange the workshop, Alessandra Gaspari, the universal design applications in Carriers Association and two state also from ITU, and Cynthia Waddell, telecommunications and information relay administrators include Clayton an internationally recognized expert technology. Bowen (VA), Greg Hlibok (FCC), on electronics and information The main afternoon event was what John Ricker (NECA), Suzanne technology. some relay professionals consider to Tetreault (FCC) and Jan Withers This year’s speaker at the Professional be the core of TDI’s work to make (NC). Finally, the industry panel Motivational Luncheon was Kelby telecommunications accessible to included voices from executives of Brick, Vice President of Purple all. In each conference, the TRS Forum five relay service providersSean Communications in charge of draws professional leaders, government Belanger of ZVRS, Tom Kielty strategic policy and regulatory officials and consumer advocates to of Snap!VRS, Dan Luis of Purple affairs. Attendees at the luncheon hear a panel of their peers in a lively Communications, Paul Kershisnik listened to Mr. Brick’s many thought- overview of telecommunication of Sorenson and Dixie Zeigler of provoking pointers on what it means to relay services. Moderated by Judy Hamilton Relay. pursue “functional equivalency”. Viera and Brenda Kelly-Frey, Wrapping up the second day was a the three panels of the TRS Forum Dr. Gregg plenary session panel that highlighted Following the luncheon, reviewed the successes and failures Vanderheiden Lisa Âström the work of TDI’s E9-1-1 Stakeholder and of the 10-digit numbering system Council on behalf of deaf and hard gave a presentation on implementing implementation, outreach activities, a new technology that would go E9-1-1 access through the Internet, far beyond than just replacing the videophone numbers for hearing Continuedonpage25 antiquated analog TTY (text telephone)
SheriFarinha(moderator),Dr.Judyharkins,lisaÂström, lisaÂströmandDr.GreggVanderheidendiscussRealtime BrendaKelly-FreyandJudyVieramoderatethetRSForum Greghlibok,toniDunne,EdwardPriceandPatrickhalleydis- textapplications cussaccessibilityontheE9-1-1StakeholderCouncilPanel TDI WORLD 25
New Beginning from previous page of hearing people, including the one serious accessibility tool that is on issues facing the Disability Next Generation 9-1-1 Project under appearing in workplaces and businesses Rights Office (DRO) at the Federal development by the U.S. Department across the country. Whether you are Communications Commission of Transportation. Moderated by the a vendor seeking to sell products to (FCC). In less than ten years, DRO council chair, Sheri Farinha from the public or an employee networking played a key role in implementing northern California, the panelists with colleagues after a career many advances in accessible policy for were Toni Dunne of Positron and advancement seminar, this pair of relay services and captioning. Hlibok former TDI Board member, Patrick portable linked keyboards allows also mentioned about the role Halley of the National Emergency typed conversations to take place DRO is playing during the roll Numbering Association (NENA), anywhere in plain English without out of President Obama’s National Greg Hlibok of the FCC and Edward arranging for an interpreter. The Broadband Plan. Incidentally, this Price of the RERC on Wireless presenter, Emma Curry, brought the was not Hlibok’s first visit to the Telecommunications at Georgia Tech. audience through the establishment of Mayflower hotel because as a student, sComm and the development of the he was one of the four leaders of the AUGUST 1, 2009 – DAY 3 – Ubi-Duo. Potential user applications aforementioned Deaf President Now CONSUMER DAY include assisting customers at service protest that began in that hotel in 1988. counters, short and long impromptu Bright and early, the final day of Following the early morning workshop, meetings, and getting to know hearing the conference began with the first Neil McDevitt moderated a panel coworkers. The staff at TDI once used pair of several workshops geared discussion on videophones with the Ubi-Duo to communicate with toward consumers with a variety representatives from Purple (Cary an Italian deaf graduate student and of interests. To accommodate the Barbin), ZVRS (Sean Belanger), his father, both of whom knew no early-birds and sleepy-heads alike Snap!VRS (Sean Gerlis), Sorenson sign language, spoke only Italian but roaming the halls, a table in the (Paul Kershisnik) and Viable (Jason could read and write in the English exhibit hall was piled high with fruits, Yeh). Each representative discussed language. Without the Ubi-Duo, we bagels and pastries. The familiar the advantages of using their respective would not have had a rich discussion aroma of percolating coffee wafts products and relay services and then about life in Italy and compared out of the room into the vast ornate took a multitude of general questions telecommunications access between hallway. Exhibitors smile and shake about video telephones from the the two countries. hands as they greet new faces of audience. consumers. Many people came in from Concurrently, Bob Brewer and In one of the next pair of consumer Washington, DC, and surrounding Rocco Luigi Saccente from workshops, Mike Shebanek gave communities in Maryland and Virginia National Technical Institute for the an update on Apple, Inc.’s accessibility to take advantage of the free workshops Deaf (NTID) presented a workshop efforts with its iPhone, iTunes, iPod being offered by TDI on Consumer that dealt with information security and other “iProducts”. Day. and how to protect your privacy from For any deaf or hard of hearing worker different perils on the Internet. in a job requiring varying degrees In a third room, FCC attorney Greg of human contact, the Ubi-Duo is Hlibok gave his audience a rundown Continuedonpage27
JudyVieraasksaquestiontoGreghlibokduringthe KelbyBrick,Jasonyeh,SeanBelanger,CaryBarbin,Sean lisehamlin,GeraldPennaandBrucemcFarlanediscussemer- discussionontheDisabilityRightsOfficeattheFCC GerlisandPaulKershisnikonthevideophonepanel gencypreparednessforpeoplewhoaredeafandhardofhearing. 26 TDI WORLD
Membership Application Form
2008 TDI Consumer Advocacy Training Continues in Madison and Sacramento
301-563-9112 TDI WORLD 27
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The other workshop had Neil McDevitt Motion, makers of the BlackBerry people who are learning how to find moderating a panel once again to devices (Dave Dougall), Sprint Relay hearing aid compatible phones and discuss how consumers can be better (Karl Ewan), Verizon (Jeff Kramer) for audiologists. Materials have been advocates and be more involved and AT&T (Susan Mazrui). Each made available free and are available in emergency preparedness and representative gave an overview of in different formats for download. response. The panelists were Lise their companies services and offered a That information is also used for the Hamlin, a former CEPIN outreach glimpse of upcoming enhancements to company’s own training, a critical specialist, now director of public their digital wireless networks. component of what A&T does to policy at Hearing Loss Association of improve its services for people who are Here are some details about the America, Gerald Penna, a volunteer deaf or have hearing loss. panelists and the products and services firefighter from the West Ridge Fire they offer (Excerpted from Cheryl AT&T doesn’t just go for innovation Department near Erie, Pennsylvania, Heppner’s NVRC reports) and interaction from focus groups. It and Bruce McFarlane, former also asks what features people want. director of USDA’s emergency Susan Mazrui, AT&T This has led to a feature that allows you preparedness office and current to magnify the text. It’s helpful not just deputy director of the Emergency AT&T considers accessibility a for people with vision loss but those Preparedness Initiative under National commitment. Several departments in dark environments where it’s hard Organization on Disability. work on accessibility across the board. AT&T does extensive work behind to read. Because many people like Lori Breslow emceed the 2009 the scenes in product development, a QWERTY keyboard to do texting, TDI Awards Luncheon where we working with vendors to understand this is also included in many devices. recognize the extraordinary efforts the needs of persons with disabilities. What started as communication of an elite group of consumers and among deaf people has caught on with organizations in their support of TDI’s The company now has a range of the general public. mission in shaping an accessible world. accessible devices a result of work Check out AT&T’s outstanding web First on the agenda, Dr. Roy Miller with organizations like TDI and page on hearing aid compatibility and passed out plaques of appreciation to HLAA, individual advocates, and wireless devices: http://www.wireless. two departing board members, Ms. feedback from groups like Gallaudet att.com/learn/articles-resources/ Breslow and Greg Gantt, thanking University’s TAP program. Finding disability-resources/hearing-aid- them for their service. You can see the technical solutions to hearing aid compatibility.jsp. Also check out the individual award recipients on page 32. compatibility was difficult, but better solutions resulted from working Disability Resources web page for After the awards luncheon, TDI together. As a result, AT&T now lots of other useful information such Director of Public Relations, Jim has a range of products and services as 711 TRS access, TTY-compatible House moderated a plenary session that are hearing aid compatible, all phones, Text Accessibility Plan at panel discussion about pagers, at different prices and with different http://www.wireless.att.com/learn/ PDAs and hearing aid compatible features. They have done extensive articles-resources/disability-resources/ wireless phones. On the panel were work with the industry association disability-resources.jsp representatives from T-Mobile and outreach to consumers. Their (Shellie Blakeney), Research in efforts include a captioned video for Continued on page 28
Josh Mendelsohn giving updates on the Americans with PhilBravinakaDr.ZfromZVRSdispensingadvicefor mikeStarlingfromnationalPublicRadiogivingupdateson DisabilitiesAct. videorelayserviceusers the captioned radio development. 28 TDI WORLD
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Dave Dougall, Research in Motion software functionality across multiple video, get a map or directions, get a list (RIM) devices. An example is a new feature of restaurants, and use it for a memo in the recently launched BlackBerry pad or task list or password keeper. Research in Motion is a leading Tour that came from feedback by Some of those features are free. For designer, manufacturer and marketer some deaf police officers at Gallaudet information on different devices and of innovative wireless solutions. Its University. It allows the device to applications, you can go to http:// portfolio of BlackBerry products and vibrate as many as ten times and to na.blackberry.com/eng/services/ services is now being used by more choose from short, medium or long appworld/. Examples include Viigo, than 28 million subscribers worldwide. vibration lengths. Moving forward, which provides one-click access to These subscribers use 475 carrier this feature will become available on news, weather, entertainment, sports partners in 165 countries, including other devices. score, stock info, RSS feeds, and blogs. all the wireless carriers in the United States. The company has technology BlackBerry has multiple messaging Karl Ewan, Sprint Relay available for multiple wireless options, such as push-based messaging for email and instant messaging. A Karl, who has been with Sprint for networks so that it can be transparent five years, calls himself a power to users. RIM’s range of smart phones wide range of support is provided for third party instant messaging relay user because every minute of has a platform that allows third-party every day you will see him on his developers to add applications so you applications such as AIM, Yahoo Messenger and Google Talk. You pager. He believes the Sprint online can get a broad range of use from your store is unique because it caters to device. can do SMS, and there is support for third party TTY devices and third deaf and hard of hearing people. In 2002, the company began an party relay services. Many individuals One of the most popular products accessibility program in its corporate actively use IP relay to create and is the variety of BlackBerrys, which research and development arm, which conduct relay calls directly from their he believes is due to the devices’ helps to ensure there is a focus on BlackBerrys. Relay services software ease of use. The staff of the Sprint BlackBerry products that meet the is a free application that can be online store are deaf and know their needs of customers with disabilities. downloaded from the relay providers products. A video customer service RIM collaborates with assistive over the air. You don’t even have to is offered by Sprint to converse in technology partners and participates connect via Internet. The software is your native language with a deaf in many research projects as well as available from IP-Relay.com, Sorenson customer care representative at www. participating in accessibility-related through SIP relay, Sprint Relay and sprintrelaystore.com/vcs. You can legislation and standards reviews i711.com. also access customer service through and attending many conferences and instant messaging. Customer Service events. Today’s BlackBerry is more than just information and links are at www. email, text messaging and voice. You sprintrelaystore.com/ecare/. RIM uses universal design principles can access the Internet for news, to ensure that accessibility of a product weather, sports and flight status. Click on the link to Hearing Aid is built in at the design stage. It also You can take a picture, do social tries to leverage and enable common networking, play games, record a Continued on page 29
DaveDougall,Jimhouse,JeffKramer,Susanmazrui, tDIPresidentDr.RoymillergivesareportontDI’s Davidmartinatthepodium,yvonnemattiello(Interpreter), KarlEwanandShellieBlakeneydiscussesaccessibilityto activitiesduringtheprevioustwoyears ElizabethSpiers,BlaineWorkieandlisehamlin(moderator) pagers,PDAsandhearingaidcompatiblewirelessdevices. discuss the recent changes to the Air Carrier Access Act TDI WORLD 29
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tDIstaffandvolunteershelpcleanuptheballroomaftertheentertainment.Frontl-R:Chadmetcalf,neilmcDevitt,laurieDowling,DonnaGraffe,GaryViall,DotBrenner,SteveBrennerand PatGraves.middlel-R;teddyClemmons,PeterReeb,lynetteReeb,PaulDanielsandAnneleahy.Rearl-R;JoeDuarte,ClaudeStout,micheleRoseman,ScottRecht,Jimhouse,Jayne magnesontubergen,yvonnemattielloandDr.Roymiller Compatible Phones and you’ll find or at a retail store. As you shop for deaf or have other kinds of disabilities. information that explains the M and your device, it allows you to identify They have spent a good deal of time T ratings for hearing aid compatibility the areas where you are likely to use it in the product area, service area, and as well as additional information. and determine the quality of coverage public policy area to practice universal There is a link to a list of hearing to see if the devices are best suited to design principles and will continue to aid compatible devices from Sprint, your needs. do so. which takes you to a table listing 37 Hearing aid compatible phones that For wireline services, Verizon has different phones and their M and T are purchased in T-Mobile stores had a Center for Customers with ratings, which you can download and can be tested in those stores, and Disabilities on both the east and west print from http://www.sprint.com/ customers are encouraged to try coast for years. By the end of the landings/accessibility/docs/HAC_ before they buy. The company’s year, they expect to have a customer PDF_List.pdf. hearing aid compatible phone options service center that specifically serves Shellie Blakeney, T-Mobile are listed at http://www.t-mobile.com/ wireless customers as well. Customer Company/Community.aspx?tp=Abt_ service representatives can take TTY T-Mobile is the nation’s fourth largest Tab_Safety&tsp=Abt_Sub_TTYPolicy. calls. Right now customers can use wireless carrier. It provides both You can also find information there the Verizon website to find answers voice and data service to customers about options for TTY use. to frequently asked questions and in the U.S. T-Mobile has a tool called contact Verizon directly by email. The Personal Coverage Check (PCC) Jeff Kramer, Verizon support page is at http://support.vzw. that can be accessed at T-Mobile’s Jeff said that Verizon cares very much com/?lid=//global//support. website, http://www.t-mobile.com, about people who are hard of hearing, Continued on page 30 30 TDI WORLD
New Beginning from previous page
TDI held an association business radio broadcasts of the newest hit songs, Paul Daniels, Tom and Laurie meeting where President Roy late-breaking news and emergency Dowling, Jeanne Lavelle, John Miller gave a presentation on TDI’s reports. Olumoya, Al Sonnenstrahl, accomplishments since the previous Gary Viall, Donna Graff, Dot Nearby, Lise Hamlin moderated conference in 2007. Since our last Brenner and others too numerous a panel on air travel access. On the conference in San Mateo, California, to mention. TDI is also grateful for panel were David Martin from TDI has seen the roll-out of the ten- the many interpreters and CART Delta Airlines, David Nelson from digit number for users of video and writers who came to make sure that Amtrak, Elizabeth Spiers from the IP relay, the nationwide transition to each conference attendee was able to American Association of the Deaf Blind digital television, and the expansion fully participate in the activities. As and Blaine Workie from the U.S. of online videos. TDI has watched as Anne Leahy coordinated the stage Department of Transportation. This federal investigators began probing the interpreters, Yvonne Mattiello made panel discussed the impact of the recent video relay industry after allegations of sure that people with visual additions and changes to the Air Carrier fraud had surfaced. Dozens of eNotes disabilities were able to take part in Access Act. went out from the TDI office informing the proceedings and Pat Graves members of action alerts, conference In yet another workshop, Anne Girard transcribed each word spoken so that news, recent accomplishments and from Hamilton Relay discussed their all of us could read it on the screen. other timely information. Thanks lineup of IP-Relay services, as well as Peter and Lynette Reeb continued to the generous pro-bono services of captioned telephone relay services, that their generous support on behalf of Bingham McCutcheon law firm, TDI are offered in 16 states and several U.S. NTID in setting up and dismantling was also able to submit numerous Territories as well as online and mobile the audio visual equipment. Thanks filings with the FCC on various relay services. to Cheryl Heppner whose reports telecommunication relay and television put you right inside each room, and to The politics of Washington, D.C. does captioning issues over the years. Steve Brenner, our official conference have some comedy moments depending He also announced the result of the photographer, you can sense that on who you ask. But on this night, I recent election with the names of you are almost a participant and now think many of the 325 conference- two new Board Members, Rebecca you want to come to our next TDI goers who attended the Entertainment Rosenthal (Central Region) and Conference in two years. Stephanie Buell (Midwest Region). Finale of the TDI Conference had quite a few chuckles and guffaws Now that you have had your bird’s eye After a short break following the from two nationally known stand-up view of the recent TDI Conference, business meeting, two additional comics, Kathy Buckley and Bob you are most cordially invited to come workshops kept the consumers Daniels. and join us for the 19th Biennial TDI busy. Josh Mendelsohn from International Conference in June 2011 After the entertainment show, the Civil Rights Office at the U.S. in Austin, Texas. Please stay tuned for volunteers came and helped TDI Department of Justice gave us an update details as they develop and we look tear down the banners and other on the recent amendments to the forward to hearing from our members signs of the TDI Conference, which Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). and friends. Thank you for your is now history. TDI gratefully ongoing support. Phil Bravin donned his lab coat to give acknowledges the assistance of Heidi a presentation as Dr. Z and showcased Burghardt, Teddy Clemmons, the growing ZVRS product line. During the final round of workshops, Mike Starling from National Public Radio (NPR) gave us an update on a project in the works with Towson University for the last several years, the rollout of captioned radio. From iPods, to boomboxes, to Internet websites, to kitchen consoles and to automobile radios, viewers with hearing disabilities AnneGirardfromhamiltonRelaydemonstratestheCaptel tDIExecutiveDirectorClaudeStoutsitswithnationally will soon be able to read captions on 80i captioned telephone device renownedcomedians,KathyBuckleyandBobDaniels TDI WORLD 31
ACCESSIBlEtEChContinued from page 9 Activity Barrier Tomorrow with HR 3101… ■ Extends closed captioning Relay calls Signer to non-signer Permits calls between video relay and IP relay users obligations to video programming Scarcity of TTYs RealTime Text developed for on VoIP phones and computers provided by, or generally Telephone Broadband expense Universal Service Fund applied to high speed Internet service considered comparable to Deaf-blind users Universal Service Fund applied to Braille telecom equipment programming provided by, a Hearing Aid users All Internet and VoIP phones compatible with hearing aids television broadcast station, even News Not near a TV CC on ALL video display devices including iPods and pagers when distributed over the Internet: Television Stripped out CC CC of TV programming “passed through” onto Internet covers video programming that was Blind viewers Require video description and access to menu controls previously captioned for television Movies Online videos not CC CC on more online video clips and more captioning tools. viewing, live video programming, Hidden CC menu Captioning options available via button on remote and new video programming provided by or generally considered to be comparable to programming to co-sponsor HR 3101. Many at http://www.youtube.com/ provided by multichannel Democrats support this bill watch?v=rwrFHpyC0dM The programming distributors; does and we need more Republican video is in sign language with not cover user-generated content support too. It is a bill for voice-over and captions. everyone, not just Democrats or (e.g., YouTube videos posted ■ Tell all your friends and relatives Republicans. Find out when your by individuals) (Current law: about HR 3101 and S 3304. Ask Representative will be in your Captioning required on most them to contact their Congress area when Congress takes a recess broadcast, cable and satellite TV Representative or Senator. If they and go visit at the local office or shows) already support the bill, thank a community event. Take your them and remember them when ■ Requires easy access to closed friends along. captions via remote control and you go vote. (I am hoping you are on-screen menus ■ Visit your Senator. Ask him already registered to vote, but if or her to co-sponsor S. 3304 a not – please register today!) ■ Requires easy access by blind companion bill similar to HR ■ Review the COAT website at www. people to television controls and 3101. We need both Democrat coataccess.org as it has many tools on-screen menus and Republican support. Find out to help you advocate, and you when your Senator will be in your ■ Restores video description rules can see up-to-date news about area when Congress takes a recess and requires access to televised HR 3101. Ask your group to join and go visit at the local office or a emergency programming for COAT, it costs nothing! people who are blind or have low community event. ■ Seek opportunities to let the vision ■ Write letters to your Senator and manufacturers know of your Congressional Representatives. Now, let’s go back to that list of needs. If an online video is not Emails and faxes are easily activities and look at the last four items captioned, send a comment or overlooked. to see where we can actually benefit feedback. from HR 3101. ■ Write letters to the editor of your Let TDI know about your efforts, send local newspaper – you can follow What can you do? us copies of emails or letters that you up on a recent technology article write. We want to know about your Now is the time for you to do what that they published and point out work because your efforts help TDI some of us did at the TDI Conference how it can be accessible if HR help you. last July. During the first day, a group 3101 passes. of participants went to the US Capitol Support TDI by becoming a member ■ Contact your local radio or for a short program on HR 3101. After or making a donation. television station – tell them your that program, they went to visit their story and how HR 3101 and S Thank YOU for your ongoing efforts own Congressional Representatives 3304 can improve your life. to make communications and video and talked to them about HR 3101. accessibility happen! Join TDI and ■ Blog about it, write or do a spread the word about HR 3101 and S There are several things you can do… vlog on social networks – tell 3304 as we work together to shape an ■ them about HR 3101. For an Visit your Congressional accessible world! Representative. Ask him or her example, look up TDI’s first vlog 32 TDI WORLD
■ 2009 TDI AWARDS
2009tDIAwardwinners(l-r)BobDaniels(At&t-marsters),CathyBrown(Verizon-marsters),Dr.Judyharkins(Brody),KevinColwell(Saks),PatGraves(Weitbrecht)Dr.h.Alanhurwitz (ntID-Breunig).Picturedbelow:Edwardmarkey(D-mA-PeltzStrauss)andSenatorJohnmcCain(R-AZ-PeltzStrauss).
Karen Peltz Strauss Public 2009 – Senator John McCain (R-AZ) H. Latham Breunig Policy Award A key player in the following legislation: Humanitarian Award ■ Telecommunications Accessibility Enhancement Act of 1988 2009 – Representative 2009 – National Technical Institute ■ Edward Markey (D-MA) Television for the Deaf at Rochester Institute for Decoder A key player in Circuitry Act Technology the following of 1990 ■ Conference Support legislation: ■ Americans ■ Large-screen video projection ■ Television with equipment Decoder Disabilities Circuitry Act Act of 1990 ■ Operating personnel of 1990 James C. Marsters ■ Americans ■ Telecommunications Act of 1996 with Promotion Award Disabilities Act of 1990 ■ Telecommunications Act of 1996 2009 – AT&T ■ Chief Sponsor – 21st Century ■ Telephone Communications and Video Pioneers Accessibility Act of America Program
TDI WORLD 33
Nationwide Telecommunication ■ Proponent of National Broadband languages Relay Services Policy ■ Voice Carry Over (VCO) for TRS ■ Commitment to Consumers with Robert H. Weitbrecht ■ Captioned Telephone (CapTel) Disabilities Telecommunications Access service ■ Corporate Policies to Promote ■ IP based CapTel Disability Access Award ■ Consumer Involvement in Product I. Lee Brody Lifetime Development 2009 – Pat Graves Achievement Award In recognition of her pioneering efforts in developing Communications Access Real-Time Translation (CART) Services 2009 – Dr. Judy Harkins for deaf and hard of hearing people.” In recognition of her outstanding contributions over many years to the Andrew Saks Engineering welfare of deaf and hard of hearing Award people, including her ■ Research on relay services that 2009 – Verizon helped develop Title IV of the 2009 – Kevin Colwell Americans with Disabilities Act of ■ Quarterly Conference Calls With In recognition of his work for 1990 (ADA) Disability Groups over 25 years developing new ■ Research on hearing aid compatible ■ Web Page and Center for Customers telecommunications technology for deaf phones With Disabilities and hard of hearing people, including the ■ Research on emergency ■ Strategic Alliances Policy Briefings ■ PayPhone TTY telecommunications ■ Diversity Strength in Corporate ■ Turbo Code ■ Leadership of the Technology Access Publicity Materials ■ More than 150 TTY models in 13 Program at Gallaudet University NEWS FLASH! Senate Introduces Companion Bill to H.R. 3101 Just as this issue went to press, U.S. Senators John Kerry and Mark Pryor introduced the “Equal Access to 21st Century Communications
Act (S. 3304), a companion bill to the U.S. SenatorJohnKerry House’s 21st Century Communications and (Democrat – Massachusetts) Video Accessibility Act (HR 3101) that was introduced in 2009. While there are some differences between the two bills, their overall goals are very much similar. Please ask your Senator to support this bill TODAY. TDI will continue to SenatormarkPryor (Democrat – Arkansas) report new developments as they occur. 34 TDI WORLD
TDI MOURNS THE PASSING OF TTY PIONEER, DR. JAMES MARSTERS
Foundersofthettynetwork:(l-R:)RobertWeitbrecht,JamesmarstersandAndrewSaks James Carlyle Marsters, DDS April 5, 1924 - July 28, 2009 "Its the end of an era,” said Andrea telephone line RTTY for deaf people seed in Bob Weitbrecht’s head that Saks when she announced the who can afford one ... but not to would soon open countless doors of recent passing of James C. Marsters lease one [from] the telephone opportunity for thousands of deaf during the 18th Biennial TDI company nor a special telephone and hard of hearing individuals, International Conference. Andrea line. ... why won’t it be possible to long denied the use of the telephone is the daughter of Andrew Saks, a translate over the regular line by for about 90 years. close friend and business partner proper modification of equipment. While Weitbrecht and Saks tinkered of Dr. Marsters and Robert Haig ... granted that eventually there with the technical aspects of the Weitbrecht, the three men who will be enough units? ... What do burgeoning TTY network in the established the first TTY network. you think?” (from A Phone of Our late 60’s and early 70’s, Dr. Marsters Own by Dr. Harry G. Lang). With “What I have in mind Bob, is the these words, Dr. Marsters planted a possibility of a network of regular Continuedonpage35 TDI WORLD 35
Marsters has grown to be the premier Continuedfrompage34 advocacy organization that promotes access to was their spokesperson. telecommunications, media Using his business acumen and information technology. from his years as one of the first deaf orthodontists Dr. Marsters’ outgoing, and deaf airplane pilots yet charming demeanor in the United States, he is best captured in TDI’s approached thousands of “Promotion Award” in his people telling them about namesake that is given a new way for deaf and out during its biennial hard of hearing people to conferences “... to an communicate by phone. individual, an organization, His positive attitude and or a company that has made personable approach an outstanding contribution earned the respect of to improving the accessibility not only deaf people, but of telecommunications, also hearing people from media and information reporters to business technology for people in executives to government the United States who are officials everywhere. For deaf, hard-of-hearing, late- many years, Marsters deafened, or deaf-blind sought out support for the through their efforts in TTY network, which is promotion, marketing, or closely intertwined with public relations.” Since the history of TDI. 1995, six individuals and five companies have During the President’s been bestowed with this Reception at the TDI prestigious award for their Conference, Ms. Saks agents volunteered many hours work in publicizing the need fondly shared her memories with distributing these 200-pound for access. the audience of the early advocates mailbox-sized behemoths often that embraced the TTY network as called “the mean green machines”, “It was a special honor to meet Dr. a combined effort began by three two-ton monsters”, “cement mixers” Marsters who was such a colorful deaf men. The attendees present and other “pet” names in homes personality. It is no wonder he also observed a moment of silence of deaf and hard of hearing people helped put a cheerful face on the in tribute to a pioneer, whose voice throughout the country. TTY movement, and spearheaded is now stilled. its growth and success,” said Without these agents, TDI would Claude Stout, executive director Under the guidance of Marsters, not have existed. Originally of TDI, while reminiscing about Saks and Weitbrecht in California, incorporated as Teletypewriters their meeting ten years ago during this movement spread nationwide for the Deaf, Inc., TDI was formed the TDI Conference in Seattle, employing dozens of deaf people to coordinate the acquisition and Washington. Stout added, “We assigned with the mammoth task of distribution of obsolete office deeply honor and appreciate his cleaning, installing and repairing machines from giant corporations pioneering contributions to the thousands of mechanical TTYs to individual homes and businesses. TTY movement. And thanks in their communities. Many of In 1968, its first year of existence, to that movement and its them eventually became known TDI published 174 names in a historical breakthrough, we are as TDI Agents. Their basements small directory and resource guide more equipped and empowered and garages became centers of The that became known today as “ today with the array of various commerce as deaf and hard of Blue Book ”. Since then TDI, now technologies we use every day at hearing people were connected, called Telecommunications for the home, in the workplace, and in the one-by-one, to the telephone Deaf and Hard of Hearing, Inc., community.” network for the first time. The 36 TDI WORLD
TDI In Action July–August2009 Telecommunications TDI Board of Directors Issues Position Statement
On July 6, TDI Regarding Allegations of Manufactured VRS Minutes submitted On July 29, 2009, during its regular It is the position of TDI that VRS is an comments to the meeting on the eve of the 18th Biennial absolutely critical public service that US Department TDI International Conference, the TDI was established by the U.S. Congress of Transportation Board of Directors issued a position under Title IV of the Americans with urging the inclusion of Real Time Text statement regarding allegations of Disabilities Act of 1990, to provide in the NG9-1-1 plans. The comments “manufactured VRS minutes.” The functionally equivalent telephone also highlighted one deficiency in SMS allegations are in reference to the service for people who are deaf and services where there are no systems illegal and unethical practice of hard of hearing. It is of the utmost that identify the location where a text creating calls using VRS for the sole importance that people be able to message originated, thus hampering purpose of accruing minutes billable communicate in their preferred efforts to determine the most for reimbursement from the Interstate language with any and all sectors appropriate PSAP for a 9-1-1 text call TRS Fund, which is managed by of society, especially during the placed through SMS. the National Exchange Carriers course of employment, and during Association (NECA) and the Federal emergency situations where efficient TDI and other Communications Commission (FCC). communication may save a life. TDI consumer stands ready to educate any and all Dr. Roy E. Miller, President said organizations parties regarding the importance of “Over the years, TDI has worked jointly filed VRS. Reply Comments with the Federal closely with the FCC, other sister Communications Commission consumer advocacy groups, TDI fully supports the strict (FCC) on July 20 reiterating their and TRS industry members to enforcement of all laws and position described in their earlier nurture the evolution of many fine regulations regarding the operation Comments. That filing urged that the telecommunications relay service of VRS. features such as Video Relay Service. FCC permanently adopt the rates as Because VRS services are reimbursed We take very seriously any allegation proposed by the National Exchange to providers from the Interstate of illegal and fraudulent practices that Carriers Association (NECA) and TRS Fund, and because those affect this vital communication link immediately explore alternative VRS services are essential to the well- between deaf and hard of hearing reimbursement plans that will restore being of the community of deaf consumers and society. We must all and maintain stability to the VRS and hard of hearing VRS users and work together to maintain the long- industry’s long-term plans. the hearing people with whom term integrity of the Interstate TRS they communicate, it is of utmost Fu n d .” Information Technology importance that the integrity TDI Position Statement Regarding of the service and of the Fund Allegations of “Manufactured VRS be maintained at all times. The Minutes” Interstate TRS Fund must only be used to reimburse for legitimate VRS TDI is deeply concerned about the minutes. allegations concerning abuse of On August 31, TDI and other The alleged practice, if found to be consumer groups filed comments with Video Relay Services (VRS) and the Interstate TRS Fund, by engaging in true, of “manufacturing minutes” the FCC regarding the development is illegal, unethical, and intolerable, of the National Broadband Plan. the illegal and unethical practice of billing for “manufactured minutes.” and has a direct adverse impact on Broadband should be defined the availability of precious resources, to enable communication and With respect to that issue, TDI takes the following position: including unnecessary longer wait Telecommunication Relay Services, times for VRS to answer calls, and the TDI takes no position regarding the lack of available interpreters in the truth or accuracy of those allegations. community. Continuedonpage37 TDI WORLD 37
TDI In Action July-August2009 Continuedfrompage36 essential for deaf, hard of hearing, late- deafened and deaf-blind people to be able to call each other and allow for functional equivalency in calling others through relay services. Broadband should also be defined to enable full and equal access to all services, including access to Internet-based media and other information services. Emergency Preparedness
The Community Emergency Preparedness Information ClaudeStoutandKareemDaleintelevisioninterviewaboutdisabilitypolicyonJuly27,2009. Network (CEPIN) offered the said Neil McDevitt, Program Director "Emergency for CEPIN. "Deaf and hard of hearing Responder and consumers will identify tools in Come to the the Deaf and working with emergency responders 2011 TDI Hard of Hearing in order to develop comprehensive Awards at the Community: Taking the First Steps disaster preparedness efforts at the 19th Biennial to Disaster Preparedness" training on local and state level." August 26, 2009, at The University International of Texas-Pan American to a group of TDI in the News Conference in local emergency responders, managers Austin Texas and planners and deaf and hard of hearing consumers. The goal of the On July 13, NexGenWeb, a policy course is to encourage networking, blog praised Claude Stout and TDI’s preparation and communication comments on the National Broadband between the two communities prior to Plan which indicated the benefits of disaster situations. broadband and how it has improved Access the quality of life for people with This training was hosted by the disabilities – specifically the growth for All — Texas Department of Assistive and of video telecommunications and IP Rehabilitative Services, and was based relay services and captioned provided through an agreement with telephone services. Texas the Rural Domestic Preparedness Training Center at Eastern Kentucky On Monday, July 27, Claude Stout Size! University. This agreement allows appeared in a live ten-minute CEPIN to present its unique and vital television studio interview on workshop to small and mid-sized WUSA, Washington, DC’s local communities across the country. CBS affiliate, along with Kareem Dale, President Obama’s Special Sign up for TDI "The training will educate emergency Assistant for Disability Policy. The eNotes to get details responders and planners concerning interview covered disability policy, as they develop. the various communication the TDI Conference and emergency eNotes preferences and how to determine the preparedness for people with @tdi-online.org most appropriate accommodation," disabilities. 38 TDI WORLD TDI WORLD 39
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