Sprint commits to sponsoring 2006 DeafNation Expo for third year in a row

From: DeafNation - Dec 6, 2005

Media Contacts: Joel Barish, DeafNation
P.O. Box 762
Frederick, MD 21705-0762
FAX (301) 682-7529
expo@deafnation.com
marketing@deafnation.com

Jennifer Bosshardt, Sprint
jennifer.bosshardt@sprint.com
(913) 794-1130

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Sprint commits to sponsoring 2006 DeafNation Expo for third year in a row

Frederick, MD [Dec. 6, 2005] – DeafNation announced today that Sprint (NYSE: S) has committed to being an event sponsor for DeafNation Expo’s 2006 schedule. “Sprint has consistently been a strong supporter of DeafNation Expo,” said DeafNation CEO Joel Barish. “I’m pleased they’re continuing their sponsorship for the third year in a row, because DeafNation Expo plays a very important role in many cities, bringing together people from all aspects of the community under one roof.”

“As a sponsor of DeafNation Expos for more than three years, Sprint has received the benefits of bringing its brand name and useful communication innovations directly to the deaf and hard of hearing community at what has proven to be one of the largest venues for deaf and hard of hearing consumers nationwide,” said Barbara Narvaez, manager of business development for Sprint. “Sponsoring events like the 2006 DeafNation Expo provides Sprint with a unique opportunity to personally meet with new and existing customers, while giving consumers who have experienced recent hearing loss the opportunity to receive hands-on demonstrations on the latest communication technologies.”

DeafNation Expo, now entering its fourth year, will visit 12 cities in 2006. Each expo features exhibitors, performers, children’s activities and specialized information, and historically brings in thousands of people per city. “The high numbers of attendees are due largely to the fact that attendance is always free, made possible through sponsorships by key players like Sprint,” said Barish. “Without them, we’d have to charge high attendance prices. So their support is greatly appreciated.”

Narvaez added, “By offering free admission to the expo for those consumers who register online, DeafNation provides consumers an affordable way to have direct access to the companies and vendors who can provide the services and devices the deaf and hard-of-hearing consumers need to enhance and improve their communication and lifestyle needs.”

The first stop on DeafNation Expo’s schedule is in Phoenix on Feb. 11. For more information, visit www.deafnation.com.

About DeafNation
DeafNation and DeafNation Expo are the premier destinations for people wanting to stay updated about the latest happenings in the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community. Visit www.deafnation.com for the latest news, video clips in sign language, and exclusive coverage of events such as the Deaflympics and World Federation of the Deaf activities. DeafNation Expo is the foremost exhibition for, by, and about Deaf people. DeafNation Expo, held at different locations across the nation each year, is a celebration of culture, an exhibition of technology, and a business and social event – all wrapped up in one dynamic, spectacular event at no charge to attendees. Visit DeafNation’s website today at www.deafnation.com!

About Sprint Nextel
Sprint Nextel offers a comprehensive range of wireless and wireline communications services to consumer, business and government customers. Sprint Nextel is widely recognized for developing, engineering and deploying innovative technologies, including two robust wireless networks offering industry leading mobile data services; instant national and international walkie-talkie capabilities; and an award-winning and global Tier 1 Internet backbone. For more information, visit www.sprint.com.

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