Deaf forester instructs on how to get pine cones

Here's Andy, again, a deaf silviculturist (see previous blog of him signing a story about Smokey Bear to deaf kids) who gives an instructional video about preparing for a tree climb and how to get fresh pine cones safely while working on the Coconino National Forest in Arizona. How often do you get to see a deaf forester do an instructional video on tree climbing? Pretty neat, I'd say.

New retirement home for deaf and hard of hearing seniors

Here's something you don't see everyday. A new retirement home in Arizona with all the bells and whistles for deaf and hard of hearing seniors, including a sign friendly staff.

Residents of a new complex made for seniors with hearing impairments were able to move into their new housing July 15, amongst family members, moving trucks and helpers who came to see the opening of the first complex of its kind in Arizona.

Apache ASL Trails, located near the corner of Apache Boulevard and Price Road, is a new development that contains 75 one and two bedroom apartments.

The complex was designed for senior citizens, with impaired hearing, and allows for deaf, deaf-blind, and hard-of-hearing individuals to live an independent lifestyle with design features and services to help them communicate with others.

Design features of the complex include flashing light signalers for the phones and doorbells, a videophone equipped lobby, and videophone hookups in every department.

The development also has space for future retail shops and a medical facility.

Residents will also be able to access specialized services that are going to be provided through the Valley Center of the Deaf.

And the best thing about it is that it's relatively cheap between $500 to $900 a month, including utilities. The Apache ASL Trails for deaf senior citizens is the 14th living complex across the United States specifically designed toward seniors with hearing loss.