Wisconsin School for the Deaf - The Wisconsin Times Vol. 134 No. 1 Fall 2012 | Page 7

Deaf Studies - Deaf Awareness Week Trip The eighth grade Deaf Studies students and the seniors taking ASL Deaf Studies were able to make two visits during one trip to Milwaukee. The first stop was the Greater Milwaukee Association of the Deaf, GMAD, clubhouse and the second stop was to the Water Tower View Deaf Senior Apartments, WTV. Three WSD alumni gave presentations about GMAD: the history of the organization and the history of the building. The speakers included Cathy Edler, class of 1982, John Murphy, class of 1966, who is the current GMAD president, and Ron Byington, class of 1961. Ms. Edler shared about club registration and various subcommittees. GMAD offers many social and sports activities, such as Holiday parties, and bowling leagues. Mr. Murphy explained the history of GMAD and how it began as the Silent Club in a rented small apartment. Through various fundraising efforts, they were able to purchase the building at the current location: 1725 South 11th Street in Milwaukee. Their email is: [email protected]. Mr. Byington entertained the group with jokes, as well as showing them around the building, including the enormous 100 pound National Deaf Basketball trophy. Left: Students and staff visiting the Greater Milwaukee Association of the Deaf. Below: Students enjoying the presentations at the Water Tower View Apartments The group then, traveled to the Water Tower View Apartments to have lunch with the residents. WTV manager, Katie Voss talked about her role as manager and how WTV began. She explained about qualifying to live there and the very unique structure and modifications of the building. In addition, Clark Christensen proudly told the students he was the very first resident at the new WTV. The building has a videophone doorbell which is connected to residents’ TVs and the lobby TV. WTV offers many activities for the residents who live there, including religious services, exercise schedules and games. The building also has a beauty salon on the second floor, and a shuttle bus is scheduled to the local food store on a regular basis. WTV is located at 3983 S. Prairie Hill Lane in Greenfield, WI Some of the students were aware of the WTV as they live in Milwaukee and had been to visit previously. Others were glad to know it exists. One student, who wants to work in the nursing field, told staff she would like to be employed at WTV. Several comments were shared about living there in the future. This trip to Milwaukee was enjoyed by all. Everyone learned something new. These two unique buildings for Deaf and Hard of Hearing adults contain a wealth of history and information for WSD students. It is a fascinating piece of Deaf Studies...at any age! Fall 2012 - 7