Mr. Zae
Vice President
Co-founder of Reading Time with the Queens. Back when he donned a frock, Zae and Cali were the titleholders out to change the world! (Or, at least, Southeast Idaho.) He has an eye for style, is always creating great hair and headpieces, and is a master of ASL. Whether it's signing books or songs, Mr. Zae knows how to imbue his own perspective into every story. Read more below!
About Me
I have already completed a couple of lifetime achievements due to my birth: being Deaf and being a cancer survivor. I grew up in Kalispell, Montana as the youngest of four and near the end of a large family of cousins. Family was, and still is, a big part of my life. Montana will always have a special place in my heart.
I am a big games fan, considering that I have ten different versions of the Monopoly game and many more board games that I can’t even count. I do enjoy my video game time as well! If I’m not playing Dungeons & Dragons or Starcraft 2, you will see me outdoors with my two dogs and husband; usually swimming or being in the water instead of hiking. If not water-related, it's highly likely I'm playing lawn games with friends! I LOVE to cook and bake. I’m almost always trying a new recipe every week! If I ever need time to myself, I’m either cross-stitching or playing a game.
You will also often find me at any event that has to do with the Deaf community, the LGBTQIA+ community, and any event related to the cancer society. I am a strong believer in the concept of community. If we want to do good in the world, we have to start in our own community.
I’m always happy to teach you some phrases in ASL (American Sign Language) if you ask! I feel very strongly about parents giving their children every tool that they need to be successful, especially if they have a deaf child. Not just having them get cochlear implants and have them learn to speak and read lips; use every resource you can get for your child to be successful. Success is not an easy task; it requires hard work and dedication to be successful.