Interpreter Spotlight
Micah Blackwood
- Interpreting Since: 2012
- Adventure Buddy: His dog, Hippo
- Hobbies: Photography, Astrophotography
Micah began learning American Sign Language (ASL) in 2009, inspired by friends who were also studying it. Immersing himself in the Deaf community, he picked up the language through real-life interaction—especially with one patient friend who helped him grow more fluent by encouraging communication without interpreters.
He started his interpreting career at Riverside Community College in 2012, later expanding into post-secondary education, Video Relay Service (VRS), and community interpreting. In 2021, he took his skills further by enrolling in an interpreter training program, completing it in 2023.
Outside of work, Micah loves photography, especially long exposures and astrophotography. He and his wife often head out to Joshua Tree and the Mojave Desert to capture the stars. They’re proud DINKWADs—dual income, no kids, with a dog. Their American Bully, Hippo, is part of all their adventures.
Signing Aide Spotlight
Jasmine McElroy
- With RISE Since: August 2024
- Fun Fact: Has a double-jointed thumb!
- Career Dream: Interpreting at concerts!
Jasmine was introduced to ASL and the Deaf community at just two years old, thanks to Deaf family friends. “I fell in love with the language and culture and knew I always wanted it in my life,” she says.
Since joining RISE as a Signing Aide in 2024, Jasmine has brought passion and energy to her work. She’s working toward becoming a certified interpreter, with the ultimate goal of interpreting in music and entertainment settings.
In her downtime, Jasmine is always up for an adventure—and she’s got a unique edge: a double-jointed thumb!
Critter Corner
Welldone
Meet Welldone, an 8-year-old potbelly pig. He is not only loving, he is super smart and knows how to sit, shake your hand, and is potty-trained! Welldone enjoys sunbathing and cruising the yard looking for snacks. On warmer days, you can find him enjoying a mud bath or swimming in the kiddie pool. On cooler days, he rolls himself up like a burrito in his many blankets. His smile says life is good! 🙂 – Carmen Eddy (Interpreter S)
Office News
Happy Hour at Strum Brewing!
Huge thanks to everyone who joined us for Happy Hour at Strum Brewing Company on 4/24/25! We loved seeing so many familiar faces come together to relax, connect, and celebrate all that we do. Here’s to more great moments ahead!
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🌍✨️Interpreter Appreciation Day ✨️🌍
We celebrate the interpreters who make communication accessible across languages and cultures. Your dedication, skill, and heart truly make a difference—thank you for all that you do!
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🎉 Signing Aide Appreciation Day
We had such a great time celebrating Signing Aide Appreciation Day with all of you! It was wonderful seeing so many smiling faces. Thank you for the important work you do every day—your dedication makes a real difference. 📸 Check out the photos from the event!
Congratulations to
Chelsea Hull
for passing her NIC Performance Exam!
Community News
¡Feliz Cinco de Mayo!
Join the celebration of Mexican heritage and pride on Cinco de Mayo! This vibrant holiday marks the historic victory at the Battle of Puebla in 1862, but the day is all about coming together as a community to enjoy colorful traditions, lively music, delicious food, and festive fun. Let’s honor the spirit of resilience and culture.
Star Wars Day
Star Wars Day is an informal commemorative day observed annually on May 4 to celebrate the Star Wars media franchise created by filmmaker George Lucas. Observance of the day spread quickly through media and grassroots celebrations since the franchise began in 1977. Wikipedia
Premiere of Deaf President Now! Documentary (May 16, 2025)
A new documentary titled Deaf President Now! is set to premiere on Apple TV+ on May 16, 2025. The film chronicles the historic 1988 protest at Gallaudet University, where students demanded the appointment of a Deaf president, leading to significant changes in Deaf leadership and advocacy.
Film Announcement
Pictured: Tim Rarus, Bridgetta Bourne-Firl, Greg Hlibok and Jerry Covell.
HR
Big Changes with RISE Retirement Plan
We’re pleased to announce that a new team of advisors will be assisting us with the implementation of RISE’s retirement plan. Tori Sierra, CFP®️, will be providing executive-level guidance on the plan. Her team of advisors, Alex Sierra, CFP®️, and Brandon Chhan, CPFC®️, will be working directly with employees on a one-on-one basis.
The team is currently focused on establishing the most efficient enrollment process. We will share the next steps with you as soon as they are available.
In the meantime, feel free to get acquainted with the new team:
May Birthday Club!
Carmen Eddy
Teresa Yost
Cristina Somers
Sabrina Rose
Patti Knight
Raul Castillo
Kylie Eagon
Brett Hile
Sophia Iocolano
Ryan Shen
April Statistics
1825
Deaf Consumers Served
48
Professional Development Meetings
3
RID & EIPA
Tests Proctored
Employee Reminders
📢
Parent Communication Reminder
Keep communication with parents professional and limited.
When interacting with parents and guardians, please follow these important guidelines:
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Limit In-Person Communication: Direct any questions or concerns from parents to the classroom teacher.
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Maintain Confidentiality: Not every adult is authorized to receive information about a student. Always err on the side of caution.
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Avoid Giving Advice: Do not provide direct advice to parents. If you have insights or suggestions, share them with the teacher and IEP team. They will decide if and how that information is communicated to the family.
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IEP-Related Discussions: You are not the primary advisor for a student’s IEP. All decisions and communications related to the IEP must come from the IEP team.
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Protect Your Privacy: Never share your personal contact information (phone number, email, or social media) with parents unless explicitly approved by RISE.
Thank you for your professionalism and support in maintaining clear boundaries and respectful communication with families.
Vocabulary Builder
Monthly Tidbits:
- Mother’s Day is celebrated worldwide, though on different dates. In the United Kingdom, for example, it’s known as Mothering Sunday, usually falling on the fourth Sunday of Lent.
- Historical Origins:
The holiday has roots in ancient Greece and Rome, where festivals were held to honor mothers or the Great Mother. - American Origins:
In the United States, Mother’s Day was officially established in 1914 by President Woodrow Wilson after much advocacy by Anna Jarvis.
Commercial Impact:
Mother’s Day is a significant commercial holiday, with spending reaching billions of dollars annually, according to reports.
How do you keep little cows quiet, so their mommy can sleep late?
Use the moooooote button.
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