The Meaning of the Word "Cordial"

I knew it was a matter of time until Ridor spilled the beans publicly about our low-keyed meeting during the NAD conference by saying I was never cordial during the meeting. But Dave Evans being the neutral observer while he was there saw the whole thing. He can confirm on how the first initial meeting went. It was more than cordial on my part than anything else.

Now, I'm not surprised that Ridor chose to do this by letting everybody know in his blog about this meeting that took place between us during the NAD convention in Palm Springs, California. I never once said a word publicly about this meeting until now. Though I am suprised it took him this long to come out and say that I wasn't the cordial person in this meeting. I was sure he would somehow twist this whole meeting to suit his own needs. However, I extended my fullest courtesy to him during our entire meeting with him. Yet Ridor choose to be dishonest in his attempt to paint me as a discourteous or uncordial person in this matter. Never mind the fact that *I* went out of my way on my *own initiative* to be courteous and cordial as possible when I confronted him first.

I was respectful enough not to indulge this to the whole internet public because this was strictly a private affair between us that occurred on June 30, 2006. Even Dave Evans saw this as a private meeting between two individuals, too. But Ridor being Ridor choose NOT to keep quiet. I knew it was a matter of time until Ridor tried to find a way to "inform" the readers on the very public internet on what may have happened. As usual, it didn't take long for him to let out his first peep on July 8, 2006 on Dave Evan's NAD: Personal Reflections II blog. A record 8 days that Ridor managed to keep quiet until he finally let out his first clue (unless you count July 3 as an earlier record). It was a small peep right there. Enough to help set the rumour mill in motion. It was only a matter of time until he could "no longer" keep quiet because he was "forced" to answer the rumours that he started publicly over the internet.

Sure doesn't sound very cordial to me.

Here's how it went.

I did confront Ridor....twice, as a matter of fact, regarding the things he had done that was out of line and inflamatory. The two separate meetings were indeed courteous and cordial with a lively discussion in parts while some were more subdued and serious. The lengthier discussion mainly took place in the first meeting rather than the second one. This was no laughing matter considering what he had done. Also, as a reminder to all those people on the matter of being cordial, I initiated two handshakes after Ridor and I were done talking in the first and the second meeting. Those handshakes I offered was my way of showing my courtesy and respect and that there was never any bad blood to begin with. Well, at least on my part. We parted our own ways without much fanfare or attracted any undue attention after we had our say. If the offering of my handshake is not being courteous or cordial then I don't know what is.

In the first meeting we had to end the discussion because I, my wife, Ridor and Dave Evans (serving as a neutral and participating observer) wanted to attend Part 4 of the Deafhood workshop which was about to begin. I initiated my handshake to Ridor by extending my hand out to him in good faith to end the discussion on a relatively good note so that all of us could attend Part 4 Deafhood workshop. Dave and my wife were witnesses to that handshake courtesy. If that's not being cordial or courteous then I don't know what is.

Now, the main gist in the first meeting that *I initiated* was to discuss with him about him going too far on other deaf or Deaf people such as the wishing the death of a deaf father's infant son in his blog which was clearly stepping over the line. No doubt. Dave agreed. I told Ridor that there are consequences to his actions when it comes to writing about other people in a public setting such as the internet/blog solely to smear and defame without much to back up his charges. It gets worse if he involves other family members who were never a party to any the discussion in the first place. I reiterated that it's better to attack the argument rather than the person or his/her family by presenting a case to counter it. That was a good rule of thumb.

Here's the beginning of how it got started.

When I arrived in Palm Springs starting on June 27 I never went looking for him at the NAD convention. I had no intention of doing that and waste my time or energy to do such an unnecessary thing. I was busy helping my good friends of mine with their exhibit booths and met up with familiar people from Gallaudet University. If I were to run into Ridor at any time then I will have that opportunity to set up a dialogue with him. The odds of running into him was nearly assured anyway.

I finally bumped into him 3 days later after arriving in Palm Springs. It happened in the Exhibits Hall during the NAD convention on June 30. I told him right then and there that I wanted to see him later on that day to discuss some things since I was already doing my errands. He didn't recognize me right away and I had to explain quickly to him on who I was. You could say that he was a bit, uh, "shocked" once he realized who I was. I knew he wouldn't seek me afterwards and so I knew it would be up to me to re-initiate the contact...again. Will lightening strike twice?

An hour later or so after doing some errands I finally saw him the second time with him talking to some of his friends or associates in the Exhibits Hall near the main exit doors. I walked across the Exhibits Hall towards him and waited patiently for about 10 to 15 minutes standing only but several feet away while I leaned on one of the exhibit booths near the entrance. No glaring at him while I stood. No huffing and puffing. No interrupting his talking to his friends since that would be absolutely rude and unwarranted. Nothing to attract unnecessary attention. I waited until he was finished so I could re-initiate the contact on a formal basis. If that's not being courteous or cordial then I don't know what is.

He knew I was there. He glanced over to me several times where I stood while he talked with his deaf friends. There was no avoiding it. A meeting was inevitable. I made sure of it. It was now or never. What could he be thinking?

After he was done talking with his friends at the Exhibits Hall I told him that we needed to talk and that we needed to go some place discreet. He seemed to agree. So we left the Exhibits Hall with him following behind me while I look for a proper and discreet area so as not to attract any unnecessary attention while we have our dialogue. I found two lounge chairs with a small table in the hallway near where Part 4 Deafhood workshop would take place. The hallway was a good area with not much traffic to get distracted or command any attention. If that's not being courteous or cordial enough then I don't know what is.

We started our discreet discussion while we sat in our lounge chairs in the hallway (near where the 4th Deafhood workshop was to be held) for about 5 minutes until David Eberwein came up and interrupted our discussion so he could talk to Ridor. I waited patiently even though I was a bit peeved at this interruption when my train of thought was interrupted. I waited until David Eberwein was finished so I could resume the discussion with Ridor. David Eberwein was completely unaware of what was going on. Nothing out of the ordinary could be seen between two individuals sitting in lounge chairs in the hallway of the Marriott hotel during the NAD convention just like all the others. DE finally left. Ridor and I resumed our dialogue. After a few minutes of discussion Dave Evans, my former roommate at Gallaudet, quietly showed up to watch the discussion unfold. He knew exactly what was going on. Dave would prove to be an important participant but neutral observer who stayed in the background while he watched and interjected only when necessary. That is what you call being courteous and cordial.

During the discussion Ridor tried several times to use his own faulty logic saying that he sent emails to Dale Patterson (deaf owner of Deafreedom) inquiring whether he sent the offensive comments in his submission box (which can't be traced anyway). Ridor said he never received an answer from him and so he blogged about it saying that it was Dale Patterson who wrote the comment hoping that Ridor would die of AIDS. Not so. The very act of not replying to any emails is not an admission of guilt. Even this wouldn't stand in a court of law.

My wife was with me as well throughout the whole time and was equally involved to a degree since Ridor did call her a "cafeteria worker" numerous times (here, here, here and here in DeafDC - see comment #4146) in a derogatory manner in his blogs and elsewhere. Of course, by saying "cafeteria worker" brings up images of ugly women serving slop at your school cafeteria. Yet, this was his sole intent to paint a picture for his blog readers. Ridor never met my wife prior to our meeting. He didn't even know what she she looked like in the first place. It was Ridor's own warped intent to purposely try and portray my wife as an ugly woman that I married.

My wife was a professional caterer at Gallaudet University. She was a "cafeteria worker" only just barely briefly before working as a professional caterer as part of the transition. She served meals and drinks for IKJ, BoTs, professors, dignitaries, actors and actresses, Bernard Bragg, Gil Eastman, alumni parties, Congress people, Jimmy Carter and his wife, and so on for 4 or 5 years. Not exactly a job that fits a description as a "cafeteria worker."

And you know what else is amazing, folks? Ridor never even had the courage or the balls to apologize to my wife while she stood there in front of him when I reminded him during the discussion that he called her a "cafeteria worker." Even Dave Evans agreed upon hearing that for the first time that calling my wife a "cafeteria worker" was simply going over the line when one goes after a family member of a person he doesn't like. Ridor had every opportunity (I didn't need to spell it out to him, he's a big boy) to apologize to her. Even after the Part 4 Deafhood workshop he didn't even try and apologize to my wife, either. Not doing so is certainly not what you call as being coureous or cordial. More like being a coward by not owing up to family members who had no involvement in this whole affair.

In my second visit with him he approached me and m wife as soon as we exited through the double doors of the Exhibits Hall. He asked us nicely if things were all right. I said..."No." I reminded him about his cell phone antics on his blog by taking out my cell phone while I mimicked talking on the phone saying that I will talk on my cell phone in any "deaf dominated places." He wanted to change his position on the spot by saying he wasn't trying to say that all. I practically said that was a bunch of B.S. simply because of the way how he wrote it in his blog. He would rather wanted to ensure an ASL only, no voice and no cell phones in "deaf dominated places." That includes Gallaudet University. How else would anyone interpret his writing with that kind of an attitude? His attitude certainly didn't sound very "deafhood- like" to me at all.

The next move was a surprise. He said after thinking about it (i.e. after the first meeting) he admitted that he did in fact cross the line in his confession to us after thinking about it awhile (some two or three hours later) and bantered on a few minutes more. With the discussion coming to an end he tried to be the loose and friendly person with me thinking he won a friend. He's sorely mistakened to think otherwise. And yet, again, he never took the opportunity to apologize to my wife during the second meeting. And if he agreed that he did go over the line, how come he never apologized to Dale Patterson, a deaf father, for wishing the death of his infant son in the hope he trip over him accidentally?

Not very cordial.

To end the whole this whole discussion, I initiated, again, a 2nd firm handshake with Ridor as a sign of courtesy and respect.

The whole thing was amazingly peaceful even though I was pissed about what he had done. It was about being civil in a discussion. It was about restraint. It was about communicating. It was about addressing false perspectives. Prior to my initiated handshake with Ridor I told him that his blog has lots of potential but if he keeps it up by disparaging other people including their families, somebody else will go after him. Yet he explained in the first meeting that he only wanted to "push buttons" on other people. I guess "pushing buttons" means wishing a father who is deaf that Ridor doesn't like would trip over his own 7 month old son in the hope that he kill him accidently.?Suffering a guilt far worse than death itself? I guess that takes a big man to say that by going after an infant son? I guess "pushing buttons" means going after family members of a person who he does not like by calling the person's spouse a "cafeteria worker" would make him to be the bigger person? The Deaf community must be extremely proud of him as Ricky "I hope your baby dies" Taylor?

Ridor. Learn to be a bit more humble. Do the right thing. Don't be a coward.

And lastly, let me give you one business advice, Ridor.

Whenever you meet or greet people with a handshake. Make sure it's a firm handshake but not like a death grip. A firm handshake shows confidence and verve. When I took the initiative to offer a handshake (twice that is) to you, Ridor, it was like shaking a limp noodle. That was probably one of the most disturbing part in this whole encounter between us.

At any rate, good luck with your blog, Ridor, and don't stop what you're doing. I truly mean it. This is not about me being bitter. Rather it's that I'm mildly disappointed in how you behaved and wondered why you keep going off like a Roman candle whenever you involve me. Let it be known that it was you who chose to start this whole thing by calling me out as not being cordial during our meetings. I had no recourse here but to set the record straight for all those blog readers out there. I would have rather kept this out and forgottened. Yet, you insisted on pushing those "buttons."

You reap what you sow, Ridor.

Btw, I hardly ever frequent Free Republic to read what goes on over there. I post certain announcements when I can such letting people know about Greg Gunderson and other things. Also, I'm like a kid in a candy store with the internet being the vast library full of information. I can only spend so much time visiting the many websites and blogsites out there. If Ridor thinks I spend all my time reading the Freeper website, he's sorely mistakened. I have not seen anything to the contrary of anybody making fun about deaf or hard of hearing people. If so, I'd be the first to address that. There is such a thing when people are totally ignorant of the facts and that a slight bit of education would do them a lot of good.

Muslims and Theme Parks...incompatible?

Over at Hotair comes up with the story about how 28,000 tickets were set aside for "Muslim Day" at one of Britain's theme parks. But they only managed to sell less than 1,000 tickets on account of Muslim's strict policy of not to mix the opposite sex together.

The fun day — exclusively revealed by The Sun — caused a race row after plans to ban mixed-sex rides, smoking, alcohol and gambling.

Non-Muslims were angered by the plans.

An Alton Towers spokesman said last night: “At least the park will be open to the general public.”

Yeah, that would be a real problem. For Muslims at theme parks? A real fun bunch I'd say. Heck, so fun, even Egypt earned the distinction as having one of the world's worst theme park. I mean, really top notch world's worst. That place is indeed a very small world after all. Utterly depressing if you look at those pictures made by an extremely lucky couple who got away with their body parts intact. If you thought carnivals here in America were bad you should be so lucky and happy for having them as an American icon. I'd rather stake my life to ride the Ferris wheel than at Egypt's Fantazy Land.

But there are plans elsewhere in the Arab world such as Saudi Arabia to have lush looking theme parks that would make owners of Busch Gardens or Disneyland proud. And don't forget the name "Dubailand," too, which is expected to be just as synomous as "Disneyland." Perhaps it's time to show some interest and plunk down some hefty cash to buy a few condos out there? I wonder what the Islamic terrorists think about Dubailand? I wonder what Disneyland is thinking?

But, still, there's this nagging problem on mixing opposite sex at theme parks. Will they take turns on reserving one day for boys/men and another for girls/women for the whole day out? Probably reserving once a week for women and men 6 days a week. No?

Fun...fun...fun! Burka anyone?

NASCAR: Wasted Fuel Myth by Environmental Wackos

When it comes to gasoline conservationists and environmental screamers or wackos on auto racing, it's clear we have our hypocrites in our midst. Loud ones that is! This is all related to Greg Gunderson's recent "win" in getting closer to driving in a NASCAR race.

Let us examine this myth that has been going around over the internet for quite some time on how NASCAR or any other racing event is seen as “wasteful” on the amount of fuel consumed when compared to the overall amount of fuels consumed in a single day in the United States.

Let’s start with an airplane flight.

A flight from Washington DC to L.A. (2700 miles one way, or roundtrip for 5400 miles) in a 737 airplane will burn about 800 gallons of jet fuel per hour. Traveling at an average airspeed of 400 mph, it would take almost 7 hours to fly from D.C. to L.A, California. In 7 hours the plane would have burned about 5600 gallons of jet fuel in a one way trip.

Remember that. Airplane. 5600 gallons used. Flight from D.C. to L.A. One way.

Now, let’s take a look at fuels burned during a single NASCAR racing event.

According to figures obtained in my research on the consumption rate during a single NASCAR racing event, the average consumption of a race car is about 2 miles per gallon in a 250 mile race. 125 gallons of fuel would be required per car in a NASCAR race. Usually there would be up to 40 cars in one race (even though many cars do drop out because of wrecks or auto malfunctions). That would be an equivalent of 5,000 gallons of fuel consumed per race! That’s the nearly the same amount of fuel consumed for a 737 airplane in a one way trip from D.C. to L.A.

Let’s put all of this into a proper perspective here on what constitutes as “wasting” gasoline.

The amount of gasoline America consumes each day is 320,500,000 GALLONS PER DAY!!! (March 2005). That’s 320 million gallons! Or 3700 gallons per second! Incredible!

In one NASCAR racing event, it uses only .00015% (or .0000015) of the total fuels consumed in the United States in a single day. That’s like if your car gets 300 miles out of a single tank full of gasoline (say 20 gallons) you would only need to drive 2 feet to get the same percentage amount of gasoline “wasted” in a single day of NASCAR racing. Or if want to imagine the amount of gasoline used from a 20 gallon gas tank then multiply 20 gallons by .0000015 and you get .0003 gallon of gasoline used to drive only 2 feet. That’s barely over 1 milliliter of gasoline used out of 20 gallons. How much is a milliliter of gasoline? Much less than ½ of a teaspoon but greater than 1/8 of teaspoon. You can see how much 1/8 teaspoon is in the picture above. We’re talking about a few drops here. Not very much. And environmental wackos are screaming over this?

Even if you added fuels used to transport the race cars, the crew team and spectators traveling to and from a NASCAR racing event (or any other racing event) the amount of gasoline consumed would not even make a difference in terms of fuels “wasted” in a single day. If anything is wasteful, it is flying to a convention when people could use a live video-conference meeting instead to discuss issues electronically.

So, the next time when you hear people scream and moan about how “wasteful” these racing events are, remind the person about the 1/8th teaspoon message. Using the excuse for not supporting NASCAR or any racing event because they “waste” fuel is at best quite disingenuous. Or perhaps they are very ill-informed.

If there is one thing I hate, it is when people scream needlessly with their misinformation and myth over something very, very, very, very……..very small.

Just as well, many of these racing events do not even use conventional gasoline fuels like we use.

By the way, congratulations to Greg Gunderson on placing 3rd out of 49 other hearing drivers for a chance to be on the 12 person racing reality show, Racin’ for a Livin’. Let’s hope he gets on the reality show for his chance that he has the right NASCAR stuff. The deaf community should be so proud of his accomplishment so far.

Did Greg Gunderson Make the top 15??

Here is the official voting result for Greg Gunderson competing for a spot on the new TV network reality show Racin' for a Livin'. I was given a Press Pass by the Executive Director of Racin' for a Livin' where the media can access a password protected website on the final tally vote results for all 44 drivers competiting for the spot on the show.

But first, let's realize that this was a long, long process in getting the fans of Greg Gunderson to vote ever since March 28 when the voting began. The frenzy voting drive reached a crescendo by mid-July with vote-a-thons for Greg taking and scores of media stories on Greg that helped garner more voting points that propelled him from #21 to #4 in a matter of weeks in July. Greg's last official standing was at #4 since the last update on July 28. Now, since the voting ended on July 31, 2006 at 11:59PM, the results are finally in for Greg Gunderson.

Let's give Greg Gunderson a BIG, BIG, BIG congrats!! His final tally vote results have placed him 3rd!! Wow!!!!!!! Great effort everybody!!

Now, it is NOT over folks. Greg has a few more hurdles to jump. He will be tested for two days to see whether he has the NASCAR stuff. The 15 selected drivers out of 50 and the 5 selected wildcard drivers out of 15 will compete for the 12-person slot on the show.

1. Brandon Knupp	2. Lindsay Daniels
3. Greg Gunderson	4. Ryan Vos
5. Branden Bonnett	6. Destiney Hays
7. Davin Scites	8. Ricky Logan
9. Shawn Norris	10. Josh Adams
11. Sunny Hobbs	12. Lance Blevins
13. Adam Epperson	14. Brian Brown
15. Tommy Garcia	16. Trent Mayo
17. Patrick Bruns	18. Sean Murphy
19. Dan Frazier	20. Costantino Bertuzzi
"Due to the tremendous efforts of all the drivers involved, Bell Racing would like to reward an additional five drivers as "Alternates" for the program Racin' For A Livin,' said General Manager Kyle Kietzmann. The Alternates are the top 5 contestants that did not make the final selection, Should one of the 20 contestants not be able to participate, an alternate will be selected. Bell Racing has graciously provided all transportation and lodging for the Alternates who will also have a chance to be seen by Veterans and team owners. All the action video for the Alternates will be available on the Insiders Club prior to the airing of the show in Feb. 2007

Racin for a Livin Final Vote Announcement!!

I have been given a press pass by the Executive Director, "JV", of Racin' for a Livin' to access a password protected website reserved for the media where the final results of the Racin' for a Livin' for the top 50 drivers (6 were already eliminated, so that leaves 44 drivers) will be shown. I am honored that the Executive Director contacted me to give me a press pass (see red bold letters informing the "members of the press"). I didn't even ask or requested this and so this was a complete surprise! This is the first time that has ever happened to me and it's great that JV, Executive Director, recognized me for my contribution in helping his upcoming reality show get recognized by the media.

So, be sure to watch here on Kokonut Pundits on August 1st this upcoming Tuesday at 3 PM EST. That is when the Executive Director will post the results for the 44 drivers competiting for the spot on Racin' for a Livin' network TV reality show. As of Friday, July 28, Greg Gunderson's rank in the tally vote is at #4. He is currently the top 5 drivers out of 50! Looks as if Greg is quite secure for the moment but please keep voting and help Greg get to the #1 spot. That will really make the news with Greg beating out 43 other hearing drivers to be #1!

Will Greg get to the #1 rank at the end? What is your prediction?

Don't stop voting until after July 31!!

Vote and support Greg!

Hillary Clinton's Bust and Plastination

Ok. How many of you saw this bust of Hillary recently?




The first thing that came to my mind was that it looked like a perfect cadaver specimen. Plastinated cadavers, that is. Sorry but it was the first thing popped into my head.

And so that brings me to this. Plastinated cadavers. They are becoming a smash hit at museums where the public go to get shocked but only to become awed and fascinated with the various positions displayed by the "plastinized" cadavers. Some museum visitors were so impressed that they even signed up to be a donor for the medical art show themselves. Donate your body to art? Talk about getting strip naked.

Now I'm thinking. When will we have our first famous "plastinized" celebrity? Will it be Michael Jackson albeit his missing nose? At least he wouldn't be frozen like a giant popsicle in a cryogenic chamber.

What about Bill Clinton? Well, I believe he could become an instant hit given his history at the White House behind closed doors. I'm sure people will want to take a closer look at Bill Clinton's "plastinized" body and see what the big deal was about just like the two couples in the picture. Look again.

You looked, too. Didn't you?

Tsk. Tsk.

But it's not a bad idea for a celebrity to do that sort of thing to help raise money for their favorite charity with their own body displayed as a "plastinized" cadaver at museums. Money collected can go to a good cause. It would be a donor's gift that can keep on giving. And it'll give Madame Tassaud's Wax Museum a run for their money.

DEAFHOODism

Click me and check inside for free!


Deafhoodism - a Deaf status quo regarding Deafhood; a system of Deaf beliefs accepted as authoritative where acceptance and, sometimes, blameless actions toward other deaf and hard of hearing individuals outside of Deaf culture would be required. It is also a self-discovery oriented process involving sustained meaningful interaction with and commitment to, Deaf social, cultural and/or political life where a deaf or hard of hearing person would become a Deaf person someday.


When I first heard about this new “Deafhood” concept it came about early into the Gallaudet University protest over the selection of Dr. Jane K. Fernandes as the 9th president. It appeared approximately at the same time with their new "Gallaudet for Unity" rallying cry. All I could do was groan over the prospect of seeing a whole new politically correct terminology invented by a Deaf person, Dr. Paddy Ladd. Somehow I couldn't shake this notion of mine that all of this "unity" and "Deafhood" cries during the Gallaudet protest were borned out of a bit of a guilt complex of theirs when they have discriminated against deaf and hard of hearing people in the past.

Dunno.

Now, lately there seems to be a mad dash to get this “Deafhood” word out and encourage people to buy, buy, buy, buy this 500+ page book. While some are hoping to set up these bible-like study groups to learn more about "Deafhood" and its concept. Or so it seems. Although none seem to be commenting about it on the Amazon website.

The "Deafhood" book is as cumbersome and as welcomed as any technical manual for any readers. That's according to some who have actually read the whole thing and have stated it as being a pretty "dry" read. If you like dry, then this is your book. So, nothing short of a Cliff Notes or Dummies book will help understand the premise of the "Deafhood" message. Maybe that should be enough of a clue about simplifying this book the next time? Else it'd become a doorstop instead.

The simple message the book puts out, according to those familiar with it, is that "Deafhood" is about inclusivity and it has nothing to do with race, degree of hearing loss, Deaf generational families or sign communication preferences. That's fine. I've no problem with that. Genie Gertz explains:

“This is not about labeling one another, not about whether you are a big "D" or a small "d". This is about all of us being deaf with full support of everyone's journey to reach Deafhood. That is to unite us all, not to divide us.”

But Genie Gertz warns in her video about the complexity of “Deafhood” and that we are all on the path to a Deaf discovery. Are we really? The definition of "Deafhood" according to her is a very complex one. It requires self-analyzing, exploring, and understanding what Deaf means to us all. Nevermind that it took the Deaf community over 30 years to get the definition of what “D”eaf means down pat but right now with this "Deafhood" thing we seem to be witnessing another attempt on changing the very definition of what "D"eaf stands for once again.

Moving the goal post?

And never mind the fact that there are deaf and hard of hearing people who do not give a fig about Deaf culture, let alone even bother with the big "D" to describe their standing as a person with a hearing loss. But since Paddy says that "Deafhood" is a process about self-identity and a person's own deafness but then he also believes that "Deafhood" is threatened by mainstreaming and by new invasive medical techniques. How can that be? "Deafhood" is supposed to be about a self-discovery process, and among other things. Perhaps getting a C.I. ought to be a part of that discovery process, too?

Now, I am not making fun about the idea of self-acceptance, self-discovery, acceptance of others, etc. as discussed in "Deafhood. " But what I am weary about is seeing another concocted terminology. Of those that I have corresponded with over the last several weeks who were RIT, Gally, CSUN students or just plain deaf/hh folks where they too are tired hearing another politically correct terminology. Many are tired seeing another new word that may ultimately prove more divisionary than helpful since Paddy Ladd keeps addressing everything "D"eaf and blaming oralism in his writings. However, the concept itself, for the most part, is fine, I guess. Basically it boils down to common sense knowing that we all go through, including hearing people, our own self-awareness discovery process as part of our journey. Self-discovery about one's own deafness or hearing loss doesn't mean the person will be led into a Deaf culture life, even with Deaf people's full suport.

Ever since I stepped foot on the campus of Gallaudet in January 1988, a few months before Deaf President Now, as a hard of hearing person I saw a completely different world versus what Deaf people saw. I’ve always accepted deaf and hard of hearing people for who they are and not worry about their background, signing abilities, the ability to speak or hear, or what have you. It didn’t matter to me. But to others, in many instances, did matter alot. Does that mean they would accept the 500+ page on "Deafhood" just to understand the concept?

In one forum I presented why this new PC word "Deafhood" would generate lots of resistence (and confusion). So, I presents a hypothetical scenario.

Let's suppose we have a deaf person who was born with a hearing loss and he wrote a similar 500+ page book called "Personhood." The deaf author has a PhD. He understands the Deaf community and its distinct culture but the author does not sign at all since he grew up orally using the visual Cued Speech method. In his book he also presents a concept for deaf and hard of hearing people to learn about acceptance of self and others, their discovery paths regarding their hearing loss, and so forth to help bring about more deaf and hard of hearing people together for a greater understanding.

Now, suppose we have these "Personhood" workshops at Gallaudet University or even at the NAD convention, would Deaf people go his workshops to learn more about this "Personhood" and buy his 500+ page book even though knowing the author of the book is a devout orally-raised deaf person? Would you go to this guys workshop? Would you be leery to go dispite the fact that the author is nowhere near Deaf? But does it matter if you are Deaf when you are also deaf? Would you go? Be honest with that question. It reveals your true attitude towards other non-Deaf people.

It's all a perception issue. I frankly, I don't care for the word "Deafhood." I just simply accept people for who they are since we're all basically in the same boat when it comes to equal access issues, legal rights and the narrowing of our communication gaps with hearing people and vice versa.

Breaking!! Greg Gunderson is still #4

The "Racin' for a Livin' " tally vote was updated today. Greg Gunderson is still at #4. There are 3 more days left until July 31 when the voting ends. What everybody should try and do is vote agressively for the next 3 days and hopefully get Greg Gunderson into the #1 position slot. This would really make the news everywhere where Greg beat out 49 hearing drivers to get to the number one spot on the total votes garnered. Greg is currently among the top 15 drivers with the most votes. After July 31, the 15 drivers and the 5 drivers from the wildcard votes will be tested to determine who the 12 drivers will be selected for the reality show. Greg is almost there!

Keep on voting! And don't stop!

UPDATE: Check out an article by Girls and Boys Town of America about Greg Gunderson and his good friend Jason Curry.

Greg Gunderson and Kansas City Star

Last week when Greg Gunderson was featured on the front sports page of the Kansas City Star newspaper the link to the news source had only the text version. But here's a look of what the front page sports section looked like with the sidebar intro as seen below with a picture of Greg Gunderson and Jason Curry, president of sComm which is the official sponsor of Greg Gunderson for the UbiDuo.

Read the rest of the story

Also, check out Greg in the Associated Press a few days ago along with a picture of him in his trophy memorabilia room.

See more Kokonut Pundits blogs about the UbiDuo.

See more Kokonut Pundits blogs about Greg Gunderson.

Rare Post Fight Pictures of Matt Hamill and Tito Ortiz

Matt Hamill sent me pictures of himself with Tito Ortiz and his buddies. You won't find these pictures anywhere else on the internet except on Kokonut Pundits. But looking at those pictures you can see those guys were having a good time winding down and relaxing after the filming of TUF3. Clowning around is essential in keeping one's own sanity in check. Even for Tito. But Matt seems to be enjoying the antics the most if you look at the last picture below.

 

Matt Hamill and Tito Ortiz in 2006

Matt Hamill - "What? Me worry?" Everybody's picking on Matt! Can't even let a King rest.


Want to help Matt Hamill with his training expense so he can prepare for his first ever UFC fight?

Send in your donations to help Matt Hamill with his training expenses to:
Matt Hamill
PO Box 61
New York Mills, NY 13417


Read here on why he needs donations during his 3rd interview about his training, TUF3 and UFC goal.


See current and past Kokonut Pundits blogs on Matt Hamill.

Breaking!! Greg Gunderson is now at #4 (Not an error!)

Check it out folks. The latest tally vote just came in today. Greg Gunderson is now at #4. Up from #5 all last week. Spread the word. Keep on voting. Also, check out sComm, Inc latest website update with the new FAQs section about the UbiDuo. The deaf owned company, sComm, Inc, is the official sponsor of Greg Gunderson. Also, check out the new FAQs page regarding UbiDuo to look up "Frequently Asked Questions." The FAQs will evolve and answer more questions about the myths and realities on using the Ubiduo.

Wanna have some fun? Make your own prediction here on what place Greg will be on the tally vote after July 31, 2006. See what everybody is saying about Greg's drive to the finish line with 8 days left to vote. Hold on to your seatbelts!

Keep on voting and don't stop!

Speed Demons, Deafness and Ethnicity Perceptions

There is this misconception that auto racing is a completely "white trash" sport event. That perception is slowly being changed today just as Tiger Woods has done for golf and continues to do so. There are avid black or African American fans out there who love the adrenalin racing, eardrum busting sports competition with cars racing around at dizzying speed who love the sport of racing just as much as the next person regardless of ethnicity.

There is a new organization called Drive for Diversity where there goal is to change the demographics to highlight and include more black/African American drivers and other people who are in the minority group such as women to make the autoracing sport an event for all to participate. NASCAR is more than happy to help make this happen.

In an effort to encourage more African Americans - and other minorities -- to get involved with NASCAR, Mr. Calhoun developed Drive for Diversity. He says NASCAR officials were enthusiastic when he approached them with the idea. "They had open arms for me," Mr. Calhoun says. "They said, 'Go out and do it, we just think that you should include more than just African Americans. We think you should have minorities as a whole.'" Drive for Diversity aims to broaden minority representation among racing crews as well as drivers, and is supporting new roles for women, who already made headlines in other racing circuits when Danica Patrick placed 4th at this year's Indy 500.

The problem in the autoracing sports is that it is extremely expensive to maintain and run a crew where it may cost several million dollars. But that didn't stop one guy from driving and his name is Willy T. Ribbs. He was the first African American to qualify and compete in the Indianopolis 500. First to compete in NASCAR's winston Cup series. First in a lot of things in his illustrious life and still going strong.

There is another famous black autoracer in the Indy 500 and his name is George Mack. He tells the people that when it comes to driving, it doesn't matter who is behind the wheel.

"Am I Black? Can you tell with my helmet on? I don't think it makes any difference. I think it's all about results. I just think it shows that anybody can do whatever they want to do, regardless of ethnicity."

And if you think that this was a recent phenenom where we are seeing black professional race car drivers, you couldn't be more wrong. From the Indiana University for Black History Month they note the famous Todd Gould during the 1920s and 1930s.

Before Jackie Robinson, Joe Louis and Jessie Owens, there was Charlie Wiggins, arguably the greatest auto racer of his era regardless of race. Known at that time as the Negro Speed King, Wiggins is the subject of a new Indiana University Press book, For Gold and Glory: Charlie Wiggins and the African-American Racing Car Circuit, and an upcoming PBS program of the same name. Author Todd Gould traces the little-known history of the Gold and Glory Sweepstakes, the highly celebrated auto racing event for African Americans in the 1920s and 1930s, when the Ku Klux Klan cast a shadow over the social and political landscape and sporting events were segregated. Held on the one-mile dirt oval at the Indiana State Fairgrounds, the Gold and Glory Sweepstakes featured the nation's top African American drivers and mechanics and boasted one of the largest purses in all of auto racing.

Now, lest you think that these black professional race car drivers get their daily racist remarks at the raceway or in the garages, think again. Here's what one black NASCAR driver Bill Lester had to say,

Not only has he never heard anything derogatory at a NASCAR race, Mr. Lester says, "the fact of the matter is, it's been a very welcoming environment for me. I feel very comfortable whenever I'm in the garage area, whenever I'm interacting with fans." He hopes that by sharing his positive experiences with NASCAR he can encourage "minority fans who are typically in the closet" to come out the races.

Indeed. All of these people, including Greg Gunderson, have one thing in common. They're all speed demons when it comes to racing on the race track where the onlydriving requirement is skill and nerves of steel. As for a professional deaf race car driver? They can do just as well as anybody else in the world of professional autoracing. Just watch.


Watch out for Greg Gunderson as he makes his way into the NASCAR racing business.


Check for past and current updates on Greg Gunderson.

Breaking! Greg Gunderson finally drives on NASCAR race track!

This is possibly one of the best American dreams for anyone, especially for a Deaf professional race car driver, and that is to drive on a NASCAR race track for the very first time. Greg Gunderson, last week, was finally able to do that. While Greg was driving behind the official NASCAR pace car on the the Kansas Speedway, which is a 1.5 mile NASCAR track on the west side of Kansas City, Greg couldn't help but look back at all the events that had happened leading up to him driving on the NASCAR race track for the very first time. Joe Posnanski was there to make sure Greg Gunderson's dream come true on the Kansas Speedway race track. This was where Greg Gunderson, Jason Curry and Joe Posnanski met to do their photo shoots of Greg and Jason for the Kansas City Star Sunday's newspaper that came out just last week. So, go ahead and check out sComm, Inc's official blogsite for the whole story plus many pictures of this historic event that will sure to go down in the annals of deaf sports history.


Greg Gunderson, Joe Posnanski and Jason Curry.

Check for past and current updates on Greg Gunderson.

Jane K. Fernandes Poll - surprising results so far

The Jane K. Fernandes poll is still ongoing. The question posed on the poll is "Do you still support Gallaudet University's President Selection Committee on selecting Dr. Jane K Fernandes to be the 9th president?" The ongoing results is a surprising one...so far. Some 57% of the respondents said "Yes" that they support the decision. 43% said "No." While 3% said "I don't know yet." And 3% said "Not interested."

Granted. A small number of people responded to the poll. At the time of this writing it was 35 people who took the online poll. And most likely may not mean much, however. It is an interesting window to look into.

Make Your Prediction about Greg Gunderson's Final Vote Position

Folks. We have 12 days to go until voting ends on July 31 to see who will get into the TV reality show "Racin for a Livin." What is your prediction on Greg Gunderson's final position in the tally vote after July 31? Greg is currently at #5. Will he go up or go down?

The top 15 drivers are to be selected based on the highest number of votes collected after voting ends July 31. The 15 drivers will face a panel of experts to see who will be the 12 competitors as race car drivers that will be in the new TV network reality show.

Put down your prediction by clicking on one of the radio buttons. The results may turn out to be an interesting one.

What is your prediction on Greg Gunderson's final position in the tally vote after July 31? 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 No, he will lose the vote race I don't care. Not interested Free polls from Pollhost.com

Increasing Trend of Deaf People on Reality Shows?

Now, Greg Gunderson would not be the first deaf person to get on a TV network reality show should he win the spot after July 31, 2006 and the TV reality show "Racin for a Livin" will be shown in February 2007. People need to to remember that there were other deaf people before Greg who were on reality shows that helped pave the way on public awareness regarding deafness issues.

Take a look at Matt Hamill (click on link for rare post-fight interview) in 2006 who became the first ever deaf Mixed Martial Arts fighter ever to compete on the The Ultimate Fighter reality show.

Then we have the Vardon family with the deaf Mom and Dad along with their two hearing sons (one is austic) who were on the Extreme Home Makeover show back in August of 2004 with Marlee Matlin making a surprise visit at the end of the show.

And then we have Christy Smith who became the first ever deaf person to be on any reality shows back in 2003 on a show called "Survivor." And probably the most controversial one since she choose to speak instead on the show rather than sign that create an complete uproar among those in the Deaf community.

Is there a trend going on here? We seems to be getting one deaf competitors on a reality show a year (except for 2005 which there weren't any). Are viewers likely to be more sympathic and supportive of deaf competitors or deaf people on reality shows? Are producers of reality shows starting to see that having deaf people on reality shows could actually boost their ratings? With 31 million deaf and hard of hearing people in the United States, that might be a reason why. And it has been proven that putting a deaf person into a reality show help boosts TV ratings remarkably!

People watching reality shows tend to root for the underdogs, and if there is an identifiable deaf competitor on a reality show, then viewers are more likely to favor the little guy, so to speak.

So, will the next deaf person to get on the next TV network reality show get more attention than ever before? Is this a good way to raise the consciousness of America about what deaf or hard of hearing people can do, and do just as well if not better than most hearing people?

Time will only tell.

Breaking!! Greg Gunderson jumps to #4!

Check out Greg Gunderson's latest ranking update in the Racin for a Livin vote poll. Greg is currently at #5 !! Two days ago Greg was at #20. Yesterday he was at #8. And today, with the latest update, he is now at #5 !

Can Greg get to #1 before the voting ends July 31? Will Greg get more news media coverage to help him earn more voting points? Keep watching and keep on voting my friends!

Don't stop now.

See more Kokonut Pundits blogs about UbiDuo.

See more Kokonut Pundits blogs about Greg Gunderson.

UPDATE: Just corrected the error where "Racin for a Livin" showed Greg as #4 in their tally update. It is really #5. Still that's a big jump from #8 to #5 !! Let's go for #1 !

Whooo!

Interview #3 with Matt Hamill

See my update by scrolling to the bottom.


Kokonut Pundits: In the TUF3 show was there anything else that wasn't shown on tv that Hamill fans would be surprised to hear? Anything that would be new to Hamill fans about behind the scenes in the TUF3 filming.

Matt Hamill: the show didnt show how much trouble the other fighters were giving me. I would be sitting in the hot tub and someone would be throwing beer bottles at me. I was never sure of who it was though and someone sprayed Pam all over the floor by the stairs just for a joke. Always trying to find ways to hurt me.

Kokonut Pundits: So, some of the fighters in the house during the TUF3 filming was taking advantage of your hearing loss?

Matt Hamill: Yes. They wanted me to quit and leave the show.

Kokonut Pundits: No kiddin. Now, when you say PAM you mean the cooking oil spray?

Matt Hamill: Yes

Kokonut Pundits: And you slipped on it?

Matt Hamill: Yes, I slipped on it.

Kokonut Pundits: Did you get injured?

Matt Hamill: No, luckily. Jokes can be dangerous haha...but nothing will ever make me quit.

Kokonut Pundits: That's good to hear. Don't let a little deafness defeat you.

Matt Hamill: I've had it all my life. It's not going to stop me now.

Kokonut Pundits: Of course. Now, you were born deaf, right?

Matt hamill: Yes.

Kokonut Pundits: Rubella?

Matt Hamill: I dont know what caused it... just born that way. My mother had no illnesses during her pregnancy.

Kokonut Pundits: Is there deafness in your family?

Matt Hamill: No, I'm the only one. A good gift.

Kokonut Pundits: Your family sounded very supportive of your recent TUF3 fights.

Matt Hamill: They are behind me in every decision I make 100 percent.

Kokonut Pundits: In our last private talk, you were talking about making a very tough decision choosing between training for Olympic 2008 wrestling or go for the UFC route. Have you made your decision?

Matt Hamill: I have chosen to take the UFC path. I feel that I am having more success with it. The Oympics has been my dream all my life but I feel like time is passing by.

Kokonut Pundits: So, is there a 3 year contract you were talking about?

Matt Hamill: I dont know about the contract just yet. I haven't come across anything yet.

Kokonut Pundits: So, no contract yet?

Matt Hamill: No, I didn't get a contract yet. I still have to prove myself.

Kokonut Pundits: But you are training with Tito Ortiz, correct?

Matt Hamill: Yes, I will be traveling back to his camp soon again to train. I trained with him prior to the fight against Jesse.

Kokonut Pundits: And where is that training camp?

Matt Hamill: Big Bear Camp in CA.


Big Bear Training Camp.


Kokonut Pundits: Yeah, I saw that fight on pay per view. Jesse was a goner.

Matt Hamill: Jesse thought I was going to be an easy fight. He asked to fight
me.

Kokonut Pundits: That was Jesse big mistake! He actually asked you to fight him??

Matt Hamill: Yeah, ha ha. As far as that goes that probably just comes from me living at his camp while I was training along with 8 other fighters.

Kokonut Pundits: Also, I'm hearing that you and Tito are roommates. True?

Matt Hamill: No. It is just me, Dean Lister, Josh B, Kendall.

Kokonut Pundits: So, not really roommates but everybody sharing the training camp?

Matt Hamill: Right.

Kokonut Pundits: Dean Lister. Wow. Are you training with him, too?

Matt Hamill: Yes. And Rampage, too.

Kokonut Pundits: Have you learned some things from Lister?

Matt Hamill: Yes, I learned a lot from Lister and I am getting better. I spar with a lot of good fighters at Tito's camp and it really has improved my skills as a fighter.

Kokonut Pundits: Who is Rampage?

Matt Hamill: He fights in Pride. He is scheduled to fight July 22nd against Matt Lindland.

Kokonut Pundits: So, how are you paying for your training? You have to make your trips from NY to CA to train at Big Bear.

Matt Hamill: I get help from friends but to be honest it has been a struggle trying to come up with travel expenses since I dont have a contract. It's not easy.

Kokonut Pundits: Is there an address where people can donate to help you with your expenses? Where can the fans of Matt Hamill send their money to and help you with your expenses?

Matt Hamill: Yes.

Send in your donations to help Matt Hamill

with his training expenses to:

Matt Hamill
PO Box 61
New York Mills, NY 13417

Matt Hamill: By the way, I dont have any sponsors at all, too. I am trying to cut back on living expenses so I have money to travel.

Kokonut Pundits: How is your family and your relationship to them after all of this?

Matt Hamill: I'm at my ex mother in law house. She is supportive of me. My relationship with my ex wife and her family is great. They consider me a part of the family.

Kokonut Pundits: That's great! It's important to maintain a good, healthy relationship.

Matt Hamill: Yeah.

Kokonut Pundits: I was looking for you on the Pay per view fight between Tito Ortiz and Shamrock. Were you at Las Vegas to watch Tito Ortiz fight Shamrock? I didn't see you. Kendall was the only familiar face over there.

Matt Hamill: No, I was on vacation in Ohio in my hometown. I watched it though at my grandmas house.

Kokonut Pundits: Me too, on pay per view. Great fight! What did you think of the fight?

Matt Hamill: I wasn't surprised.

Kokonut Pundits: Yeah, me too.

Matt Hamill: I knew it was going to be short.

Kokonut Pundits: Very short! 1:07. Wham! An easy win!

Matt Hamill: Yup.

Kokonut Pundits: Would you fight anybody now at this stage?

Matt Hamill: I will fight anyone. I have no fear. I'm not one to trash talk but what you see is what you get from me.

Kokonut Pundits: Yeah. Have you heard anything from Tito about Shamrock?

Matt Hamill: No, but they did have a celebration afterwards. They invited me to go but I had too much going on with family since I had been away for so long so I didnt go. They had a big Team Punishment party

Kokonut Pundits: I can imagine that big party. Everybody whooping it up. Ha ha!

Matt Hamill: Yes. All 3 fighters from Team Punishment went. So, it was a big celebration.

Kokonut Pundits: Which fighters?

Matt Hamill: Joe Stephenson, Josh and Tito.

Kokonut Pundits: One big question keeps coming up on some of those MMA forums. Will you fight Mike Bisping??

Matt Hamill: Yes, I will. It's just a matter of time.

Kokonut Pundits: What is Tito saying about the Hamill-Bisping fight?

Matt Hamill: It will be a good fight.

Kokonut Pundits: Ah. I think it will be a good fight. I'm sure you will beat Bisping. Just watch out for his flying knee kick. Awesome.

Matt Hamill: Yes, I know. I've been training in Syracuse. I'll be ready for those kicks.

Kokonut Pundits: Bisping looks like he has springs in his legs. Who are you training with in Syracuse, NY?

Matt Hamill: Ray Newkirk, and Ken Kronenberg and Dennis Sugrue at Tai-Kai Jiu jitsu in Syracuse.

Kokonut Pundits: Ken and Dennis? Do you have their last names?

Matt Hamill: No. I am terrible with last names. I need to get on top of those. Get ready for future interviews and give them proper credit.

Kokonut Pundits: Yeah. Good idea.

Matt Hamill: Ken trains similar to Dean Lister. Ray is a very good all around fighter.

Kokonut Pundits: Dean Lister is known for his grappling skills, correct?

Matt Hamill: Yup. Look at Streetwise Fight Wear. There's a pics of me and Ray.

Kokonut Pundits: Ok..let me check. On that website it says - *****COMING SOON AGAIN AUTOGRAPHED T SHIRTS BY MATT HAMILL***** When will that be?

Matt Hamill: I dont know. They are processing it now. The t-shirts haven't come in yet.

Kokonut Pundits: So, you haven't signed the shirts yet? I see. Ok. When is your next fight?

Matt Hamill: I don't know. I am waiting for Tito to hook me up.

Kokonut Pundits: Any names? Potential fighters?

Matt Hamill: He will contact me when something comes up. No names yet.

Kokonut Pundits: Do you know where it will take place?

Matt Hamill: Las Vegas most likely or California.

Kokonut Pundits: How many minutes left do you have for this interview?

Matt Hamill: I can do a few more questions.

Kokonut Pundits: Ok. What were you like when you were younger....wrestling...how you interacted with other people....did you drink at Rock Festival at Gallaudet University...things like that...are you different now than when you were younger?

Matt Hamill: I was very focused on wrestling. I ate, breathed and lived wrestling. It was all I knew. If I went to parties I'd have a gallon of milk in my hand. And I didnt have my first alcoholic drink until 2 years ago.

Kokonut Pundits: So, you are still the same guy that carries around a gallon of milk?

Matt Hamill: Ha ha. Not now since I'm working as a bouncer. I enjoy a beer here and there.

Kokonut Pundits: Have you ever gotten drunk?

Matt Hamill: I will never be a heavy drinker though. Thats not me.

Kokonut Pundits: Ah....very good.

Matt Hamill: Never drunk.

Kokonut Pundits: I get a lot of readers looking for Matt Hamill info on my Kokonut Pundits blogsite. Especially for interviews. They really look up to you.

Matt Hamill: I really appreciate that. That's great. I appreciate all the support from fans.

Kokonut Pundits: You are an inspiration to the deaf/hh community.

Matt Hamill: The more help I get from donated money, the more time I can spend training and get a better chance to win a contract.

Send in your donations to help Matt Hamill

with his training expenses to:

.Matt Hamill
PO Box 61
New York Mills, NY 13417

Kokonut Pundits: Right. I'd love to see you and Mike Bisping fight.

Matt Hamill: Soon. That is what I want.

Kokonut Pundits: That is what everybody has been saying.

Matt Hamill: Yeah, see who the real winner is.

Kokonut Pundits: Yeah. YOU!!

Matt Hamill: Him and I are still both undefeated.

Kokonut Pundits: But Bisping had more fights than you.

Matt Hamill: I know Bisping has more experience than I do but I am a fast learner. I have good mechanics and control. I'm getting better at striking to take him down, and ground and pound. So that would be an advantage. I didn't do bad for ten months of training.. WHOOOOOOOOO!

Kokonut Pundits: Yes...ground and pound...meatloaf style. Did you have a question for me?

Matt Hamill: Nope. It was good talking to you again and I appreciate all that you do for me.

Kokonut Pundits: Yeah, no problem. Nice talking to you Matt. Stay healthy!

Matt Hamill: You too.

Kokonut Pundits: Thanks.

Check out all past and current Kokonut Pundits blogs on Matt Hamill.

UPDATE: Check out Sherdog's MMA forum that is currently discussing the 3rd interview of Matt Hamill on the Kokonut Pundits blogsite. Be sure to check out some of their inanities, too. Just for laughs. But it was not without some good positive responses. Oh, by the way, for some of the Sherdog fans, read below.

1) Yes, this was a real interview with Matt Hamill that took place a few days ago. It was a continuation from the 1st and 2nd post-fight interviews. Not the made up fairy stuff, mind you. Else if it was, then you'd be the most gullible people on earth arguing over a fake interview and I'm just simply screwing you guys over just for laughs. Again, this was a REAL interview that took place. Maybe I should speak more slowly next time so you'll understand?

2) Yes, the PO Box address does belong to Matt. It is not mine and, no, this isn't some little scamming attempt at getting money for myself, either. Don't believe? Use your little noodnik to do a little investigative work.

3) The comments about the 3 members from Team Punishment that went to Tito Ortiz's post fight party? It means exactly that and not about the size of the party with a total of 4 people attending. Get real. After what happened to Shamrock? And you expect 4 people having a private and only party in town whooping it up? Yeah, right. And you would actually go for that based on what Matt said? Want Matt to explain it to you a bit more clearly next time so there'll be no misunderstanding?

4) About Rampage. Does it really matter if I know who Rampage is or not? I've known about UFC and Pride for several years and the many fighters who fought. It's not like that my life totally revolves around UFC or Pride. Some of you guys perhaps live, drink, eat, and crap UFC/MMA all the time. Bravo. However, it was Matt's participation in the TUF3 show that renewed my interest in the sport despite my background in Martial Arts (since 1997) and wrestling. And my blog enabled many deaf, hard of hearing and hearing people learn more about the MMA sport. And here I have to explain to many of the presumptious wankers (borrowing from Bisping's own admittance as being one) about all this.

5) Never under-estimate anybody. Or their will. Not even Matt's. The doctors wanted to send him home the first time after he was puking his guts out. He stayed. He fought with basically one good arm and being a bit unsteady on his feet against Nickels. Unlike Kalib who screamed "I got a f#%&ing broken rib!!" And verbally quits. Or how about the two fighters who were given a chance to fight when the fortitious opportunity came to them but they nixed it only because it was too much for them after being defeated. Much to Dana's complete surprise. Matt was (and still is) a fighter and wanted to continue after he got back from the hospital. Ever wonder why Tito picked him in the first place?

6) As for the donation part, it may be the first you've ever heard of it but it certainly doesn't hurt anybody to ask for some help. And it doesn't hurt to advertise for help over the internet, either. What is it to you? You don't know until you try.

7) This assumption thing that's going around about Matt's deafness saying he is using his deafness as a crutch and excuse is pure baloney. He has never portrayed himself as victim. 100% pure schlock. Didn't anybody read my earlier and recent interviews? He knew many of them were joking around at the house. The missing steak. The PAM oil spray on the floor. The thrown beer bottles. He even apologized FIRST to Kendall and others thinking that there were some misunderstandings about his own perceived actions only because he was trying to fit in. I was supremely surprised that many didn't have the ability to take 2 and 2 together in figuring this one out. Yet, Matt laughed about those incidents but certainly those guys DID take advantage of his deafness. Pure and simple. Who wouldn't? It's not like you have tiptoe around him to get by or whisper quietly so he won't hear you conversations. Know the differences here the next time. He hasn't let his deafness slow him down or use it as an excuse. Rather, he has used it to his own advantage.

8) Lastly, Sherdoggie is a moron. Fair enough?

 

Check out all of my up to date Matt Hamill bloggings.

Video of Greg Gunderson at NAD Palm Springs

Check out this video of Greg Gunderson, a Deaf professional sprint race car driver, while he was at the NAD convention in Palm Springs, California. Watch him sign to other people about his racing experience in the hope that they will continue to vote for him as many times as possible for him to get on the TV network reality show called "Racin for a Livin." Let this video be a reminder to those that Greg still need your help to take him to the finish line with only two weeks left until voting ends July 31. He is currently at #8. Let's see if we can get him to the #1 spot! Wouldn't that be something? The top 15 drivers with the most votes get to go on the TV reality show. Just because he's #8 doesn't mean you can relax. That would be a deadly mistake for the deaf/hh community. Keep up with the pressure and vote everyday.

Cheers!

Vote-a-thon Number Two

Check out sComm's blogsite detailing the 2nd Greg Gunderson vote-a-thon party recently this Saturday with 30 people in attendance using 5 laptops on the dining room table. You can see pictures of checkered flags and checkered table cloth. Lots of inspiration, fun and support were shown for Greg Gunderson. Because of their efforts they were able to push Greg's placing of #20 yesterday to #8 today. The biggest push came from Joe Posnanski's interview with Greg Gunderson for a full page article in the Sunday sports section of the Kansas City Star newspaper that has a Sunday circulation of 1.1 million! This front page sports coveraged earned enough points to move Greg's voting rank substantially to a much better position. Huge voting points were awarded to Greg since the Kansas City Star newspaper provided lots of free publicity for Racin for a Livin.

Good going gang! Let's keep voting and push Greg to the #1 spot. Wouldn't that be a good ending to a new beginning in Greg's chapter?

Check for past and current updates on Greg Gunderson.