ASLpah! Coffee Chat

Meet and chat with others using American Sign Language.

What is ASL?
 

ASL is the acronym for American Sign Language.  It is a non-verbal language that uses precise hand shapes, movement and space, and non-manual behaviors to
convey meaning.  It has grammatical structure and is as expressive as any spoken language.  ASL is not universal.  Historically, ASL is related to French Sign Language.

Who can attend?
 

"ASLpah! Coffee Chat" events are open to anyone wishing to meet and converse with others who use ASL.  Deaf, hard-of-hearing, hearing, young or old - doesn't
matter - all are welcome.  Tim Hortons at 44 N Maysville Av in Zanesville are kindly allowing us to have our chats there.  Chats are being held in the Zanesville area (east-southeast Ohio) which is easily accessible from I-70.

What happens at an ASLpah! Coffee Chat?
 

Sometimes, there is a short presentation of some interesting topic; it lasts 15-20 minutes.  The audience is always welcome to ask questions.  Afterward, all mingle and chat, enjoy coffee and other refreshments, or play games such as chess or Scrabble in the sitting area of the gallery.  Other times, rather than having a presentation, we will play a game such as "Clue" or "Up for Bid".  These games give people who are just learning ASL a chance to practice describing people or numbers.  For those who are already comfortable using ASL it is just fun!

Some of the presentations we have enjoyed were an "art talk" featuring paintings by Paul Emory and photography by Carl France which was presented by Gene Gibbons, Professor of Fine Arts, Concordia University in Montreal.  It was fun and informative.  Another presentation was given by Amy Underwood.  She gave us a behind-the-scenes glimpse of activity at Zanesville Community Theatre - the selection of a play, casting of actors, rehearsals.  The art world is alive in the Zanesville area!  Louise Hawkins signed a presentation for us and presented all in attendance with one of her lotion bars as a gift.

What other topics will be presented?
 

As signers/speakers are scheduled, the details will be added to the ASLpah! Coffee Chat web site.  If you have a suggestion or are willing to give a brief 20-30 minute presentation on any topic, please call toll-free 1-866-821-7819.  Speakers do not need to know ASL; an interpreter will be provided.

What is pah!?  Come find out!

Updated: 07/31/10