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Deaf association hosts conference | newsleader.com | The News Leader
The Virginia Association of the Deaf kicked off its biennial conference Thursday at Staunton's Stonewall Jackson Hotel. This year, the organization is celebrating its 125th anniversary.
Byron Heath, president of VAD's Richmond chapter, said he was excited to arrive in Staunton for his eighth conference. He said these weekends promote equal access for the deaf, and participants benefit "by exchanging ideas and taking ideas to their homes and sharing it."
Paul Pryor, president of the VAD's Skyline Chapter said some of the issues discussed during the weekend will include accessibility for the deaf, video relay services and communication with hearing people.
Participants took tours of the museum at the Virginia School for the Deaf and Blind and had a reception at the American Frontier Culture Museum, according to the conference schedule.
Today and Saturday, there will be an awards ceremony and various workshops and exhibits, including one from Sorenson, a company that makes videophones for the deaf, Gallaudet University and a presentation by Superintendent Nancy Armstrong of VSDB.
Pryor said the Skyline chapter had been working hard to prepare for the 125th anniversary, and he's proud of their dedication. Former Chapter President Debbie Harris said she plans to wear late-19th Century garb to Saturday's banquet to honor the anniversary.
Tonight's activities will culminate with the Miss Deaf Virginia Pageant. Janet Wright, who organizes the pageant, said it's just like any other pageant. The five contestants will be judged by their talent performances and by interviews, and the winner will receive flowers, a crown and scholarship money. The winner will also host a breakfast on Sunday morning.
The Virginia Association of the Deaf kicked off its biennial conference Thursday at Staunton's Stonewall Jackson Hotel. This year, the organization is celebrating its 125th anniversary.
Byron Heath, president of VAD's Richmond chapter, said he was excited to arrive in Staunton for his eighth conference. He said these weekends promote equal access for the deaf, and participants benefit "by exchanging ideas and taking ideas to their homes and sharing it."
Paul Pryor, president of the VAD's Skyline Chapter said some of the issues discussed during the weekend will include accessibility for the deaf, video relay services and communication with hearing people.
Participants took tours of the museum at the Virginia School for the Deaf and Blind and had a reception at the American Frontier Culture Museum, according to the conference schedule.
Today and Saturday, there will be an awards ceremony and various workshops and exhibits, including one from Sorenson, a company that makes videophones for the deaf, Gallaudet University and a presentation by Superintendent Nancy Armstrong of VSDB.
Pryor said the Skyline chapter had been working hard to prepare for the 125th anniversary, and he's proud of their dedication. Former Chapter President Debbie Harris said she plans to wear late-19th Century garb to Saturday's banquet to honor the anniversary.
Tonight's activities will culminate with the Miss Deaf Virginia Pageant. Janet Wright, who organizes the pageant, said it's just like any other pageant. The five contestants will be judged by their talent performances and by interviews, and the winner will receive flowers, a crown and scholarship money. The winner will also host a breakfast on Sunday morning.