Press Releases

November 1, 2019 ASL Interpreting in Texas Just Got Bigger

SALT LAKE CITY – (Nov. 1, 2019) Today, Sorenson Communications announced the acquisition of the business of Texas-based Communication Axess Ability Group (CAAG), effective Nov. 1, 2019. CAAG serves the state of Texas by providing sign language interpreting, Video Remote Interpreting (VRI), communication access real-time translation (CART), and Deaf and hard-of-hearing services through a contract with the Texas Department of Health and Human Services Office of Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services. With this change, Sorenson’s ability to meet the needs of the Deaf community grows, offering customers increased scheduling capabilities, account management, and a dedicated incoming videophone support line in American Sign Language (ASL).

“By combining resources, Texas now has even better availability of skilled ASL interpreters to meet the demands of on-site interpreting needs,” notes Josh Pennise, Sorenson’s national director of community services. “Sorenson and CAAG share the same values of providing reliable, quality interpreting to the Deaf and to the hard-of-hearing community and to customers. Acquiring CAAG’s services was a natural next step for Sorenson. We look forward to serving the Deaf and hard-of-hearing community in Texas. We welcome CAAG interpreters into our national network!”

Everett Puckett, CAAG CEO and one of CAAG’s partners, says, “Our combined broad footprint will benefit customers by providing them with more choices in interpreter and customer service options. We are committed to providing a seamless transition and the same level of service Texas customers have come to expect. We plan to quickly transition CAAG interpreters, CART writers, and special services employees to Sorenson Community Interpreting Services (SCIS).”

Pennise notes that for the past 18 years, CAAG provided outstanding services to Texas and to the nation. “Sorenson is pleased to build on CAAG’s legacy and dedication to our communities,” he says. “We look forward to serving the Texas community for many years to come!”

For more information about the new updated ntouch features, visit www.svrs.com or contact customer service at 801-386-8500.

Press Contact Ann Bardsley
Sorenson Communications
801-287-9400
[email protected]

About Sorenson Communications, LLC

Sorenson Communications, LLC (www.sorensonvrs.com) connects people by delivering the world’s most trusted services, which include Sorenson Video Relay Service (VRS®), the highest-quality video interpreting service, and Sorenson Community Interpreting Services (SCIS), which matches qualified sign language interpreters to specific assignment needs and situations to provide an unparalleled interpreting experience. As the largest private employer of sign language interpreters, Sorenson has access to the most experienced, skilled, and diverse interpreter base in the industry. Sorenson interpreters pass a rigorous skills assessment test, and are provided with myriad resources for interpreter development, training, and advocacy.

Sorenson’s innovative products include the ntouch® VP and the ntouch VP2 videophones, designed especially for use by Deaf individuals; ntouch PC, software that connects users to SVRS by using a PC and webcam; ntouch for Mac®, software that connects users to SVRS by using an Apple® computer; and ntouch Mobile, an application empowering SVRS communication via tablet and mobile devices. Sorenson is the leading provider of Video Relay Service.

Disclaimer
If you choose Sorenson as your default provider, you can port your existing 10-digit number to Sorenson from another provider or Sorenson can provide you with one for the geographic area where you live or work. If you later change your default provider, you can port your number to that provider. When selecting Sorenson, you must provide to Sorenson the physical address (i.e., the Registered Location) from which you are placing the call, so that Sorenson can properly route any 911 calls you may make. If you move or change your location, you must notify Sorenson immediately. You can update your Registered Location from your Sorenson videophone by calling 800-659-4810 or by visiting www.svrs.com/moving. Sorenson will confirm receipt of your Registered Location information. Emergency calls made via internet-based TRS may not function the same as traditional E911 service. For example, you may not be able to dial 911 if there is an internet-service failure or if you lose electrical power, and your 911 call may not be routed correctly if you have not updated your Registered Location. For more information on the process of obtaining 10-digit numbers and the limitations and risks associated with using Sorenson’s VRS to place a 911 call, please visit Sorenson’s website: sorenson2021es.wpengine.com/disclaimer. For information on toll-free numbering, please visit www.svrs.com/tollfree.

August 5, 2019 Sorenson Communications Announces New ntouch Features for iOS, Mac, and PC

SALT LAKE CITY – (Aug. 5, 2019) Today, Sorenson Communications announced a new version of ntouch® for the iOS®, macOS®, and Windows® operating systems. Customers will enjoy an improved experience with an updated ntouch user interface (UI) for iOS devices as well as the interpreter’s ID shown in Call History and Copy Shared Text functionality. Customers can get the new ntouch software – version 9.0 – by downloading it from the Mac App Store or the iOS App Store. ntouch PC software will automatically update the first time it opens.

“This update to ntouch complies with Apple’s guidelines and includes minor feature changes and additions to the apps’ user UIs,” notes Isaac Roach, vice president of engineering for Sorenson Communications, the leading provider of Video Relay Service (VRS) for Deaf people who use sign language to communicate. “This launch is consistent with our commitment to always provide customers with the most trusted service and innovative products.”

Additional changes to the ntouch app’s UI include:

  • Better use of the iPad’s extra screen area
  • A new self-view so users can check their appearance, available lighting, and their background before making a call
  • New color themes – multiple options for background and foreground colors

Updated UI elements provide a more consistent interface, reduce the number of buttons on a screen, and reduce the number of taps needed to perform an action.

In coming months, Sorenson will also release a new version of the ntouch software on Android®

For more information about the new updated ntouch features, visit www.svrs.com or contact customer service at 801-386-8500.


Press Contact
Ann Bardsley

Sorenson Communications

801-287-9400

[email protected]

About Sorenson Communications, LLC

Sorenson Communications, LLC ( www.svrs.com) connects people by delivering the world’s most trusted service and innovative products for the Deaf, which include Sorenson Video Relay Service (VRS®), the highest-quality video interpreting service; the ntouch® VP and the ntouch VP2 videophones, designed especially for use by Deaf individuals; ntouch PC, software that connects users to SVRS by using a PC and webcam; ntouch for Mac®, software that connects users to SVRS by using an Apple® computer; and ntouch Mobile, an application empowering SVRS communication via tablet and mobile devices. Sorenson is the leading provider of Video Relay Service.


Disclaimer

If you choose Sorenson as your default provider, you can port your existing 10-digit number to Sorenson from another provider or Sorenson can provide you with one for the geographic area where you live or work. If you later change your default provider, you can port your number to that provider. When selecting Sorenson, you must provide to Sorenson the physical address (i.e., the Registered Location) from which you are placing the call, so that Sorenson can properly route any 911 calls you may make. If you move or change your location, you must notify Sorenson immediately. You can update your Registered Location from your Sorenson videophone by calling 800-659-4810 or by visiting www.svrs.com/moving. Sorenson will confirm receipt of your Registered Location information. Emergency calls made via internet-based TRS may not function the same as traditional E911 service. For example, you may not be able to dial 911 if there is an internet-service failure or if you lose electrical power, and your 911 call may not be routed correctly if you have not updated your Registered Location. For more information on the process of obtaining 10-digit numbers and the limitations and risks associated with using Sorenson’s VRS to place a 911 call, please visit Sorenson’s website: sorenson2021es.wpengine.com/disclaimer.
For information on toll-free numbering, please visit
www.svrs.com/tollfree.

January 4, 2019 Record Number of ASL Interpreters Receive Sorenson Communications-Sponsored Instruction

SALT LAKE CITY – (Jan. 4, 2019) In 2018, Sorenson Communications, LLC provided 18,000 hours of instruction to more than 6,000 American Sign Language (ASL) community and video interpreters. Interpreters who qualified received 1,839 continuing education units (CEUs), which are required to maintain professional certification status and to continue to work as professional ASL interpreters.

Programming was provided by Sorenson’s Interpreter Education and Professional Development (IEPD) instructors, who offered 36 different webinar topics related to interpreting skills, self-care, power and privilege, linguistics and ASL, as well as specialized workshops for tri-lingual interpreters. In addition, Sorenson sponsored more than 600 interpreting webinars, individualized language mentoring, small group mentoring discussions, and eLearning.

Sorenson supported local communities by providing five community workshops held in the United States and Canada, with 284 interpreters attending. As in past years, CEU workshop registration fees were donated to local communities and Deaf groups, including schools, youth camps, sports and senior clubs and interpreter organizations.

During 2018, 84 heritage language users – bilingual hearing participants raised with one or more Deaf parents – participated in programs that prepared them to become community or Video Relay Service (VRS) interpreters. Sorenson also initiated a Deaf Interpreter Academy to raise awareness of best practices in Deaf interpreter teaming and to create opportunities to foster Deaf interpreter development throughout North America.

“As the largest private employer of ASL interpreters in the U.S., Sorenson is dedicated to supporting the communication needs of the Deaf community,” notes Stephanie Criner, executive director of Sorenson’s IEPD team.”

Criner adds, “Our goal is to provide accurate and meaningful interpretation for the Deaf community. When interpreters’ skills are refined, the overall quality of ASL interpreting is elevated. We are committed to providing interpreters with opportunities to receive training, education, and professional development while, at the same time, earning required CEUs to maintain their professional certification status. The instruction also provides a way for interpreters to give back to the community.”

About Sorenson Communications, LLC

Sorenson Communications, LLC (www.sorensonvrs.com) connects people by delivering the world’s most trusted service and innovative products for the Deaf, which include Sorenson Video Relay Service (VRS®), the highest-quality video interpreting service; the ntouch® VP and the ntouch VP2 videophones, designed especially for use by Deaf individuals; ntouch PC, software that connects users to SVRS by using a PC and webcam; ntouch for Mac®, software that connects users to SVRS by using an Apple® computer; and ntouch Mobile, an application empowering SVRS communication via tablet and mobile devices. Sorenson is the leading provider of Video Relay Service.

Disclaimer

If you choose Sorenson as your default provider, you can port your existing 10-digit number to Sorenson from another provider or Sorenson can provide you with one for the geographic area where you live or work. If you later change your default provider, you can port your number to that provider. When selecting Sorenson, you must provide to Sorenson the physical address (i.e., the Registered Location) from which you are placing the call, so that Sorenson can properly route any 911 calls you may make. If you move or change your location, you must notify Sorenson immediately. You can update your Registered Location from your Sorenson videophone by calling 800-659-4810 or by visiting www.svrs.com/moving. Sorenson will confirm receipt of your Registered Location information. Emergency calls made via internet-based TRS may not function the same as traditional E911 service. For example, you may not be able to dial 911 if there is an internet-service failure or if you lose electrical power, and your 911 call may not be routed correctly if you have not updated your Registered Location. For more information on the process of obtaining 10-digit numbers and the limitations and risks associated with using Sorenson’s VRS to place a 911 call, please visit Sorenson’s website: sorenson2021es.wpengine.com/disclaimer. For information on toll-free numbering, please visit www.svrs.com/tollfree.

November 20, 2018 Sorenson Reflex Video Delivers an Even More Reliable VRS Experience

SALT LAKE CITY – (Nov. 20, 2018) Today, Sorenson Communications, LLC announced Sorenson Reflex Video (SRV), a new technology that dramatically reduces communication interruptions and improves video quality on calls using Sorenson Video Relay Service® (SVRS®) – the service that empowers Deaf and hearing callers to converse, each in their preferred language – American Sign Language (ASL) or spoken English or Spanish.

SVRS callers with weak internet connectivity occasionally experience internet conditions that cause video data “loss” between sending and receiving Sorenson videophones (VPs) or ntouch® devices. SRV identifies and resends the lost data to the receiving VP, resulting in a clearer and more dependable video experience for SVRS callers.

“Sorenson Reflex Video provides an error resilience mechanism that enables recovery of lost media data, providing callers with the best video possible under adverse network conditions. With SRV, callers will enjoy a smoother, more stable connection that is clearer throughout each call,” notes Isaac Roach, Sorenson vice president of engineering. “Clear communication is the best communication. Sorenson Reflex Video is another example of how we’re always innovating for our community.”

SRV is included in Sorenson’s latest ntouch versions 1.3 for ntouch VP2 and on 8.6 on ntouch for iOS, Android™, Mac® and PC. To experience the best video quality in the industry, visit the app store. For more information, visit www.sorensonvrs.com/ntouchfeatures.

Sorenson Communications, LLC
Sorenson Communications, LLC (sorenson2021es.wpengine.com) is a provider of industry-leading communication products and services for the Deaf. The company’s offerings include SVRS®, the highest-quality video interpreting service; the ntouch® VP and the ntouch VP2 videophones, designed especially for use by Deaf individuals; ntouch PC, software that connects users to SVRS by using a PC and webcam; ntouch for Mac®, software that connects users to SVRS by using an Apple® computer; and ntouch Mobile, an application empowering SVRS communication via tablet and mobile devices. Sorenson, Sorenson Communications, LLC and their subsidiaries and affiliates are unrelated to, and unaffiliated with, Sorenson Media, Inc.

October 19, 2018 Sorenson Holdings Announces Planned Refinancing of Existing Indebtedness from the Proceeds of a Term Loan

SALT LAKE CITY – (Oct. 19, 2018) Utah-based Sorenson Holdings, LLC (“Sorenson”) today announced that it intends to pursue a new senior secured loan financing for the purpose of refinancing certain debt of Sorenson and its wholly owned subsidiary, Sorenson Communications, LLC (“SCL”), which may include Sorenson’s Senior Unsecured Notes due 2021, SCL’s Senior Secured Second Lien Notes due 2020 and the loans outstanding under SCL’s First Lien Credit Agreement dated as of April 30, 2014, as amended. There can be no assurance that the refinancing will be completed or as to its timing.

For further information, please contact:

Ann Bardsley
Director of Public Relations
Sorenson Holdings, LLC
801-287-9897
[email protected]

Sorenson Communications, LLC
Sorenson Communications, LLC (sorenson2021es.wpengine.com) is a provider of industry-leading communication products and services for the Deaf. The company’s offerings include SVRS®, the highest-quality video interpreting service; the ntouch® VP and the ntouch VP2 videophones, designed especially for use by Deaf individuals; ntouch PC, software that connects users to SVRS by using a PC and webcam; ntouch for Mac®, software that connects users to SVRS by using an Apple® computer; and ntouch Mobile, an application empowering SVRS communication via tablet and mobile devices. Sorenson, Sorenson Communications, LLC and their subsidiaries and affiliates are unrelated to, and unaffiliated with, Sorenson Media, Inc.

CaptionCall, LLC
CaptionCall, LLC (www.captioncall.com) is another innovative solution from Sorenson Holdings, the worldwide leader in telecommunication relay services. Sorenson has been offering technology and services for assistive communications since 1995. CaptionCall is a revolutionary phone for anyone experiencing hearing loss that keeps them from using the phone effectively. CaptionCall offers amplification and superb sound quality while displaying smooth-scrolling captions of what callers say on a large, easy-to-read screen. CaptionCall helps people with hearing loss stay socially connected for a longer, happier, healthier life.

Cautionary Statement
This press release is for information purposes only and does not constitute a prospectus or any offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any security in the United States of America or in any other jurisdiction. Securities may not be offered or sold in the United States of America absent registration or an exemption from registration under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”). No indebtedness incurred in connection with the refinancing referred to above will be registered under the Securities Act.

Forward Looking Statements
This press release may include “forward looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. These forward looking statements can be identified by the use of forward looking terminology, including the terms ‘‘believes,’’ ‘‘estimates,’’ ‘‘anticipates,’’ ‘‘expects,’’ ‘‘intends,’’ ‘‘may,’’ ‘‘will’’ or ‘‘should’’ or, in each case, their negative, or other variations or comparable terminology. These forward looking statements include all matters that are not historical facts and include statements regarding Sorenson’s intentions, beliefs or current expectations concerning, among other things, Sorenson’s results of operations, financial condition, liquidity, prospects, growth, strategies and the industry in which it operates. By their nature, forward looking statements involve risks and uncertainties because they relate to events and depend on circumstances that may or may not occur in the future. Readers are cautioned that forward looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and that Sorenson’s actual results of operations, financial condition and liquidity, and the development of the industry in which it operates may differ materially from those made in or suggested by the forward looking statements contained in this press release. In addition, even if Sorenson’s results of operations, financial condition and liquidity, and the development of the industry in which Sorenson operates are consistent with the forward looking statements contained in this press release, those results or developments may not be indicative of results or developments in subsequent periods. Given these risks and uncertainties, you should not rely on forward looking statements as a prediction of actual results.

August 24, 2018 MJ Bienvenu Honored as Friend of Sorenson Communications

SALT LAKE CITY – (Aug. 24, 2018) Utah-based Sorenson Communications, LLC has named MJ Bienvenu, world-renowned American Sign Language (ASL) educator and Gallaudet professor, a “Friend of Sorenson Communications.” The award was presented to Bienvenu for her many years of passionate leadership and dedicated work in and on behalf of the Deaf community. Bienvenu received the honor after her keynote presentation at a Sorenson management meeting recently held in Salt Lake City.

“Since Sorenson’s founding, MJ has supported our efforts to provide innovative communication technologies and quality ASL interpreting for Deaf people,” noted Chris Wakeland, Sorenson’s Chief People Officer. “We are indebted to MJ for her many years of support, guidance and friendship.”

Bienvenu reflected on historical methods of communication between Deaf and hearing people and noted that those methods – writing, faxing and using teletypewriters – relied on English, a second language for most Deaf people.

That changed in 2003, Bienvenu said, with the introduction of the Sorenson videophone and Sorenson Video Relay Service® (SVRS®). For the first time, Video Relay Service (VRS) connected Deaf and hearing callers in real-time and gave each the option of conversing in their preferred language – ASL and spoken English or spoken Spanish. This was a “tipping point” in the Deaf world – “a dream finally realized,” she said.

Bienvenu reported that over the years, technologies, sponsorships and organizations – many of them offered by Sorenson – have benefitted the Deaf community. However, challenges still exist. She inspired the leaders to respond to the need for federal regulation, continued innovation in Deaf technologies, fluency and flexibility among VRS and community interpreters, the use of Certified Deaf Interpreters, increased number of Deaf executives and the growth of Sorenson Community Interpreting Services – all while working in a “Deaf way.”

Bienvenu inspired and renewed excitement among the Sorenson leaders. “Growth is forever,” she said, and with success, the realization of these goals will lead to greater independence, access, equity and equality for all people.

Sorenson Communications, LLC
Sorenson Communications, LLC (sorenson2021es.wpengine.com) is a provider of industry-leading communication products and services for the Deaf. The company’s offerings include SVRS®, the highest-quality video interpreting service; the ntouch® VP and the ntouch VP2 videophones, designed especially for use by Deaf individuals; ntouch PC, software that connects users to SVRS by using a PC and webcam; ntouch for Mac®, software that connects users to SVRS by using an Apple® computer; and ntouch Mobile, an application empowering SVRS communication via tablet and mobile devices.

May 25, 2018 Sorenson Holdings, LLC Announces New Executive Leadership

SALT LAKE CITY – (May 25, 2018) Today, the Board of Directors of Sorenson Holdings, LLC and its operating entities, SVRS and CaptionCall, announced the appointment of R. Scott Wood as Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Wood has served as Sorenson Holdings’ legal counsel since May 2015. He will succeed current CEO Scott K. Sorensen, who will leave the company on May 31 to pursue new career opportunities.

“Scott Sorensen and the executive team have placed the company in its strongest position ever – financially, operationally and strategically,” noted Wood. “I am honored to assume this new role.”

Since May 2015 and as Sorenson Holdings legal counsel, Wood has directed all legal matters for the company, including corporate structuring and financing, intellectual property strategy and protection, regulatory compliance, employee and labor matters, litigation and dispute resolution and has coordinated Board relations.

From 2009 to 2014, Wood was general counsel at Holiday Retirement, then the nation’s largest supplier of independent living services, with more than 300 locations, 13,000 employees, 42,000 residents and more than $1.2 billion in annual revenues. Prior to Holiday Retirement, as general counsel, Wood took Golfsmith, a nationwide golf and tennis retailer, through an initial public offering on the Nasdaq stock exchange. Earlier in his career, Wood was in private practice in Salt Lake City and was associate general counsel at Franklin Covey Co.

“The Board is thrilled that Scott Wood will become Sorenson’s new Chief Executive Officer. We’ve selected a strong leader at a time when Sorenson is in a very strong position,” said Chairman of the Board Jim Continenza. “Scott is uniquely positioned to understand and drive the company’s growth strategy, its regulatory compliance and lead the team to ensure Sorenson’s success in the future.”

Wood said, “I joined Sorenson because I wanted to be part of a mission-driven company, one that provides valuable services and industry-leading products that improve people’s lives. We will continue to focus on strong business fundamentals and operational excellence as we honor our commitment to deliver world-class service to our customers.”

In addition, the Board also named Grant A. Beckmann Chief Operating Officer of SVRS and Jason P. Dunn as Chief Operating Officer of CaptionCall.

Since 2010, Beckmann has led product development teams in launching the ntouch® and ntouch VP2 videophones as well as ntouch software for iOS®, Mac®, Windows® and Android™. Beckmann and his teams have worked passionately to ensure advances in technology are used to enhance the overall SVRS experience for both customers and interpreters.

Dunn joined SVRS in 2004 and has, since then, directed operations for SVRS, SIPRelay, SVRS Canada and CaptionCall. Dunn has been responsible for hiring, training and managing thousands of employees to ensure the companies deliver the nation’s highest-quality communication services for the Deaf and hard-of-hearing.

Sorenson Communications, LLC
Sorenson Communications, LLC (sorenson2021es.wpengine.com) is a provider of industry-leading communication products and services for the Deaf. The company’s offerings include SVRS®, the highest-quality video interpreting service; the ntouch® VP and the ntouch VP2 videophones, designed especially for use by Deaf individuals; ntouch PC, software that connects users to SVRS by using a PC and webcam; ntouch for Mac®, software that connects users to SVRS by using an Apple® computer; and ntouch Mobile, an application empowering SVRS communication via tablet and mobile devices.

CaptionCall, LLC
CaptionCall, LLC (www.captioncall.com) is another innovative solution from Sorenson Holdings, the worldwide leader in telecommunication relay services. Sorenson has been offering technology and services for assistive communications since 1995. CaptionCall is a revolutionary phone for anyone experiencing hearing loss that keeps them from using the phone effectively. CaptionCall offers amplification and superb sound quality while displaying smooth-scrolling captions of what callers say on a large, easy-to-read screen. CaptionCall helps people with hearing loss stay socially connected for a longer, happier, healthier life.

The trademarks used herein are property of their respective owners. Android is a trademark of Google LLC.

March 15, 2018 Sorenson Communications Announces St. Augustine Video Relay Service Interpreting Center

SVRS centers support real-time communication between Deaf people who use sign language and hearing people

SALT LAKE CITY (March 15, 2018) — Today, Sorenson Communications, LLC announced the opening of a new Sorenson Video Relay Service® (SVRS®) interpreting center in St. Augustine, Fla. As the leading provider of Video Relay Service (VRS), Sorenson operates more than 100 SVRS interpreting centers in major cities throughout the U.S. and Canada.

“Opening the St. Augustine center provides increased access to professional interpreters who relay conversations between Deaf and hearing people, each in their preferred language – either American Sign Language (ASL) or spoken English or spoken Spanish,” notes Laura Hartness, SVRS vice president of interpreting. “Opening this center is another way Sorenson shows its commitment to the Deaf community.”

Lance Pickett, SVRS marketing vice president, adds, “Sorenson Communications is dedicated to providing the best-possible SVRS experience for Deaf and hearing callers. Each SVRS interpreting center is staffed with the highest-quality interpreters —professionals who are dedicated to providing excellent interpreting for every call.”

SVRS empowers Deaf people who use ASL to place video relay calls with hearing people, 24/7, through a qualified ASL interpreter. To place a relay call, a Deaf caller uses a videophone, a mobile device or computer, a high-speed internet connection and a standard TV. When a Deaf caller calls a hearing person, an ASL interpreter, located in an interpreting center, appears on the screen. The Deaf caller signs to the interpreter, who is fluent in ASL and spoken English. The interpreter then speaks the message to the hearing recipient. The hearing caller responds and the interpreter signs the message back to the Deaf person, thus “relaying” the conversation between them.

SVRS, a service paid for by the U.S. government’s Telecommunications Relay Service fund, closely simulates a conversation between two hearing people, something the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) calls “functional equivalency.” Title IV of the ADA mandates access to functionally-equivalent communication for Deaf people.The content could not be found.

February 7, 2018 More than 5,000 ASL Interpreters Attended Sorenson Communications-Sponsored Educational Events in 2017

SALT LAKE CITY – (Feb. 7, 2018) Last year, Sorenson Communications, LLC sponsored educational programs that were attended by more than 5,000 American Sign Language (ASL) community and video interpreters (VIs). Those who qualified and attended were awarded 1,321 continuing education units (CEUs), totaling 13,221 contact hours of instruction. CEUs enable interpreters to continue to work as professional ASL interpreters, either through the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf or a state certifying agency, such as the Board for Evaluation of Interpreters.

Since many ASL interpreters perform both VRS and community interpreting work, when Sorenson interpreters’ skills are strengthened, so is the overall quality of community interpreting. In 2017, Sorenson offered a variety of programs to keep pace with the most current training. These programs included community events, webinars, self-paced eLearning activities, mentoring experiences and community and internal workshops.

Stephanie Criner, VRS professional training and development education director, notes, “Sorenson Communications is committed to lifelong learning and growth for the entire interpreting industry. As the largest private employer of sign language interpreters in the U.S., we provide training opportunities that are unparalleled in our industry.”

Last year, Sorenson sponsored 13 community workshops, open to both Sorenson and community interpreters, which raised funds for local Deaf organizations. Nearly 400 webinars and workshops were provided to Sorenson interpreters. In addition, many Sorenson video interpreters participated in Sorenson’s Language Mentoring Program, which pairs VIs with a Deaf interpreter/ASL coach to refine interpreting skills. This year a new, group mentoring approach was offered that brought together small groups of interpreters from the U.S. and Canada to participate in focused ASL dialogues on specialized topics, such as banking, Social Security, sports and weather.

“As the largest private employer of ASL interpreters in the U.S., Sorenson is committed to supporting the communication needs of the Deaf community,” notes Laura Hartness, Sorenson Communications vice president of interpreting. “To provide accurate and meaningful interpretation for our Deaf SVRS customers, we offer Sorenson video and community interpreters opportunities to receive training, education and professional development while simultaneously earning required CEUs to maintain their professional certification status.”The content could not be found.

June 13, 2017 SVRS Introduces the ntouch VP2 Videophone to Austin

SALT LAKE CITY – (June 13, 2017) Sorenson Communications, LLC, the company that revolutionized communication for Deaf people, will host an event in Austin, Texas on June 20 to celebrate its newest innovation: the ntouch® VP2 videophone. The event, which will be conducted in American Sign Language (ASL) and geared specifically to Deaf users of VRS technology, will begin at 6:30 p.m. at ZACH Theatre Complex, Topfer Theatre, 202 S. Lamar Blvd., in Austin, Texas. Guests will enjoy free parking and refreshments provided by Dagar’s and Austin-based Deaf caterers Crepe Crazy and That Specialty Cake Company. Deaf disc jockey Nico DiMarco will participate in the event and priority ntouch VP2 equipment upgrades will be given to those who attend. There is no cost for the event, but registration is required and can be completed by visiting vp2austin.eventfarm.com.

With the ntouch VP2 videophone’s updated technology, Deaf callers can enjoy a host of new features, including 1080 high-definition video quality, an even brighter LightRing® with customizable colors and the much-anticipated Group Call, which gives callers the option to include up to four people in one videophone call. As with all previous SVRS videophones, the new ntouch VP2 was specifically designed for use by Deaf people.

In addition to a sleek new design and a simplified remote control, the ntouch VP2 includes:

  • Screensaver options
  • A new look and feel with a redesigned user interface
  • An auto-focus camera for even better video clarity
  • Wi-Fi capability
  • Integrated Bluetooth®

“SVRS engineers used feedback from the Deaf community to design the new ntouch VP2 videophone,” notes Scott K. Sorensen, CEO of SVRS. “Coupled with innovative and leading-edge technology, the new ntouch VP2 offers the best-possible Video Relay Service experience for our valued SVRS customers.”

Ann Marie Oester, ntouch VP2 beta tester, says she likes all of the features of the new VP – especially the new Group Call, which connects people from across the country. “Everyone can talk together – friends from Pennsylvania, Texas, Florida and Kansas. It doesn’t matter where we are, we can all see each other. I really like that! And I appreciate Sorenson incorporating features based on customers’ comments.”

To learn more about the ntouch VP2, visit www.svrs.com/vp2.

May 22, 2017 ADA-Required Interpreting Services Now Available Throughout the United States

SALT LAKE CITY – (May 22, 2017) Sorenson Community Interpreting Services (SCIS) is now providing onsite, in-person sign language interpreting services to U.S. businesses, medical practices, schools and other organizations that employ or serve members of the Deaf community. SCIS facilitates communication between Deaf and hearing people and customizes the communication by matching sign language interpreters’ skills and expertise to each interpreting job – whether the request is for a medical appointment, legal consultation, training seminar or performance review.

Agencies and most businesses are required by law to provide American Sign Language (ASL) interpreters to Deaf people in nearly every setting. The landmark 1990 Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires this accommodation. Providing interpreters ensures that Deaf employees and Deaf customers have the same access to communication and information available to every other coworker or patron.

Sorenson is the leading provider of Video Relay Service and the company that revolutionized telephone communication for Deaf people. Since 2003, Sorenson VRS® (SVRS®), has been breaking down communication barriers between Deaf and hearing people. Paramount to its success has been SVRS’ commitment to interpreter excellence, which includes hiring and retaining the most talented interpreters in the industry and providing them with ongoing, comprehensive mentoring and training.

SCIS National Director of Community Interpreting Joshua Penise notes, “As the largest private employer of sign language interpreters in the U.S., Sorenson has the most experienced, skilled and diverse interpreter base in the industry. We are now making these professional interpreters available to the public. With more than 100 interpreting centers, Sorenson’s unmatched reach and resources provide customers with a seamless experience across multiple geographies.”

SCIS interpreters must pass a rigorous skills assessment, drug screening and a criminal background check. Interpreter performance is continually monitored by field experts to ensure a high-quality and consistent client experience. Interpreters who are approved to work in a medical environment have completed specific medical training and must comply with yearly flu vaccination and TB test requirements.

Scheduling an interpreter is easy and can be done 24/7/365 by calling 800-659-4783, emailing [email protected] or in ASL by calling videophone number 844-720-1891.

March 31, 2017 ASL Animated BuzzStickers Released to Public

BuzzStickers commemorate 15-year anniversary of first videophone for the Deaf

SALT LAKE CITY – (March 31, 2017) Today, Sorenson Communications, LLC (“SVRS”), the leading provider of Video Relay Service (VRS) and the company that revolutionized communication for Deaf people, introduced BuzzStickers, American Sign Language (ASL) animated stickers for iOS®. Similar in use to emoticons, BuzzStickers are ASL signs and expressions that can be sent in a text or used alone as a picture. Examples include ASL signs for “call me,” “jaw drop” and “I love you.”

BuzzStickers are available to everyone at no cost in the Apple® App Store.

Lance Pickett, Sorenson vice president of marketing, notes the 15 stickers are just one way of showing appreciation to all those involved in Sorenson’s history – Deaf and hearing users of the technology and the interpreters who powered Sorenson VRS® (SVRS®) for 15 years, since the introduction of Sorenson’s first videophone, the VP-100®.

“In the early days of SVRS, customer use and feedback was especially important – it was a catalyst for the creation of subsequent products, including the VP-200®, ntouch® VP and, now, the ntouch® VP2 videophone. Our customer-testers and their contributions were – and still are, critical to our success,” Pickett says. “We created our videophones as a community and, because of that shared collaboration, Sorenson is the heartbeat of communication within the Deaf and ASL communities. Because of our customers’ support, our vision continues.”

BuzzStickers were designed by well-known “That Deaf Guy” cartoonist Matt Daigle and animated by SVRS studio producer Sean Benson.

Once the BuzzStickers app is downloaded from the Apple App Store, users simply start a text message, tap on a BuzzSticker and send.

About Sorenson Communications, LLC (“SVRS”)
SVRS (www.svrs.com) is a provider of industry-leading communication products and services for the Deaf. The company’s offerings include SVRS, the highest-quality video interpreting service; the ntouch® VP and the ntouch® VP2 videophones, designed especially for use by Deaf individuals; ntouch® PC, software that connects users to SVRS by using a PC and webcam; ntouch® for Mac®, software that connects users to SVRS by using an Apple® computer; and ntouch® Mobile, an application empowering SVRS communication via tablet and mobile devices.

Disclaimer
If you choose Sorenson as your default provider, you can port your existing 10-digit number to Sorenson from another provider or Sorenson can provide you with one for the geographic area where you live or work. If you later change your default provider, you can port your number to that provider. When selecting Sorenson, you must provide to Sorenson the physical address (i.e., the Registered Location) from which you are placing the call, so that Sorenson can properly route any 911 calls you may make. If you move or change your location, you must notify Sorenson immediately. You can update your Registered Location from your Sorenson videophone by calling 800-659-4810 or by visiting www.svrs.com/moving. Sorenson will confirm receipt of your Registered Location information. Emergency calls made via internet-based TRS may not function the same as traditional E911 service. For example, you may not be able to dial 911 if there is an internet-service failure or if you lose electrical power, and your 911 call may not be routed correctly if you have not updated your Registered Location. For more information on the process of obtaining 10-digit numbers and the limitations and risks associated with using Sorenson’s VRS to place a 911 call, please visit Sorenson’s website: sorenson2021es.wpengine.com/disclaimer. For information on toll-free numbering, please visit www.svrs.com/tollfree.