Updated 02/06/2012 10:26 AM
Super Bowl watch party helps raise funds for deaf
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On Sunday, there was no need for translators, and those who could hear were in the minority.
The Austin Association of the Deaf hosted a Super Bowl watch party to raise money for the Austin Bass Club of the Deaf.
Jonathan Hughes attended the event.
"The purpose of this is to be able to socialize with all deaf people so we can keep our communication level open," he said.
Joseph Gordon often plays the role of translator using American Sign Language for his mom.
"I do translate for her at the doctor’s office," he said. "The doctor tells me what he is trying to tell my mom, and then I sign it to my mom."
His mom said the event offers a chance for them to forget their situation is unique.
"It makes me feel like I am part of my world, but because the kids speak its part of their world too. So, it’s normal,” Mom Crystol Gordon said. "[It] allowed me to talk freely without worrying about writing or nothing."
Hughes said the same is true for fishing. Proceeds from the watch party will help pay for the Austin Bass Club’s travel expenses to a national fishing tournament in Lake Amistad in 2013.
Hughes said fishing allows him to practice a sport he loves while watching others learn new skills.
"You can learn. It is a learning experience. If you have never fished before, you can go out and learn," Hughes said. "Deaf people can communicate. there are just different ways. It is difficult, but we don't let it stop them from communicating with everyone."
The Association of the Deaf hosts events every weekend from fishing to just hanging out. The group has been around since 1946.