My Life - Summer 2024

MY L IFE

Want to work?

Disability Pride

An internship is one way you can improve employment skills.

A celebration of the disability community in Cincinnati.

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A Voice for Others Margaret Long shares her story to fight for community change Page 10

Issue No. 11

Summer 2024

Fighting for Change Margaret Long was paralyzed from a gunshot wound shortly before her 20th birthday. For nearly two decades, she’s been sharing her story—advocating against gun violence and for disability rights. She was recently honored by Cincinnati City Council for her tireless advocacy.

“We’re trying to make the world more inclusive. Because without our voices, I don’t know who will fight for us,” she said.

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My Life Editorial Team Ryan Braun

Director of Community Relations

Lisa Danford

Community Relations Coordinator

Anna Leah Swafford, Amy Hayden, Michael Ginn

Writers & Contributors Anna Leah Swafford, Ryan Braun, Amy Hayden, Michael Ginn, Lisa Danford, Sarah Phillips, Michael Matacia, Robert Shuemak, Krissy Vinson, Molly Lyons, Margaret Long, Brandi Maples, Seana Higgins, Cheryl Kremer, Zoltan von Dienes-Oehm Have a question, comment or story idea? Email magazine@hamiltondds.org or call (513) 794-3300 2

Contents 7

On-the-Job Learning

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DSAGC interns are fully immersed in office culture. This one-year program helps interns build communication, leadership and other skills to reach their employment goals.

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Disability Pride Cincy Local organizations are gearing up for Disability Pride celebrations in July.

Events honor the culture, resilience, achievements, and experiences of the disability community.

Assistive tech can improve independence Assistive technology can be an app on your phone to personal emergency alert systems and everything in between. Learn about tech solutions to fit different needs and maintain or gain more independence.

In Every Issue News & Notes

Pages 4-6

Leia’s Letter News: Improving event access, options for summertime fun, and more.

My Voice

Pages 14-16

Meet Five Local Advocates 5 Questions Reds Batboy Teddy Kremer

My Life:

Pages 17-19

Let’s Go Fly A Kite In Focus Upcoming Events 3

Welcome to the Summer issue of My Life! As the days grow longer and the sun shines brighter, I’m happy to share this issue’s wonderful stories.

Our cover story introduces you to Margaret Long, a remarkable disability rights advocate.

Margaret lost the ability to walk after being shot right before her 20th birthday, but she has turned her experience into a powerful force for change. Her journey is truly inspiring.

In our feature stories, we explore how assistive technology can help you become more independent. Discover both new and longtested tools that can make everyday tasks easier and enhance your quality of life.

We also highlight the valuable experience available through internships at the Down Syndrome Association of Greater Cincinnati.

These opportunities provide hands-on learning and a chance to make a difference in the community.

July is Disability Pride Month, and we have all the details on how you can join in the celebrations. With a variety of accessible events, there are many ways to show your support.

Leia’s Letter

For more fun, check out our news sections where you’ll find places to stay cool this summer and learn about a universally accessible restroom bus that ensures that everyone can enjoy some of Cincinnati’s most exciting events.

Or maybe you just want to relax with a craft in your backyard. In this issue, we have easy-tofollow instructions on how to make your own kite at home.

Baseball season is in full swing, so don’t miss our 5 Questions interview with Teddy Kremer, the Cincinnati Reds batboy! He shares his unique experiences and love for the game.

We hope this issue gives you some great stories to add to your summer reading list. So, grab a cold drink, find a shady spot, and dive into the stories that await you. Happy reading and have a fantastic summer!

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News & Notes

Increasing accessibility at local events Hamilton County Developmental Disabilities Services is excited to partner with Momentum Refresh to improve accessibility and inclusion at events around Cincinnati this year.

Momentum Refresh is the nation’s first fully accessible, universally designed mobile restroom. It’s equipped with a wheelchair lift, customizable grab bars, an overhead ceiling hoist, and height-adjustable adult changing tables, and sink.

“Momentum Refresh allows people with disabilities the opportunity to share in some of the most exciting events in our city,” said Dawn Freudenberg, director of Planning, Innovation, and Quality for HCDDS. “It removes a major barrier by offering the opportunity to attend events in their communities and know that restroom access will be available. We’re excited to share this incredible resource with our community.”

Look for Momentum Refresh at Northside’s 4th of July parade, Art on the Rise at the Cincinnati Art Museum, Harvest Home Fair, SOAR Expo, and others.

Learn more and see a full list of upcoming events at HamiltonDDS.org/momentum-refresh.

The Momentum Refresh van is a universally designed and fully accessible mobile restroom. It has a wheelchair lift, changing table, heightadjustable sink and other features.

Credit: Momentum Refresh

MetroNow! expands services and hours There is little that compares to independence stemming from the ability to move about your community and get where you need to go.

Beginning March 17, MetroNow! has expanded its services in the Springdale/ Sharonville and Northgate/Mt. Healthy areas of Cincinnati. This also includes expanded MetroNow! provides on-demand transportation service for riders. hours: an additional hour each workday and Credit: Cincinnati Metro three hours on weekends and holidays.

MetroNow! is Cincinnati Metro’s newest transportation service, designed to meet the needs of select neighborhoods surrounding the city, that don’t have access to many of the bus routes found in more populated areas. Using the MetroNow! On Demand app, the general public can request $2 rides that fall within the six predetermined zones serviced by MetroNow! For more information, visit Go-Metro.com 5

Tune in for summer concerts Do you like listening to music, attending concerts and having fun? Many communities host free public concerts throughout the summer. ▶ For Latin music, check out Salsa on the Square.

It’s 7-10 p.m. every Thursday on Fountain Square. ▶ Rock ‘n’ roll fans can stop by Smale Park from 7-10 p.m. Thursdays for Rockin’ the Roebling. ▶ Get your hip-hop and R&B fix during Friday Flow. It’s 6-10 p.m. Fridays at Washington Park. ▶ Blue Ash has two summer concerts series featuring a variety of musical genres. On Tuesdays, from 7-9 p.m., check out live music at the Nature Park. On Fridays, beginning Aug. 2, they have bands at the Town Square from 8-10 p.m.

Passionate about tech? Apply to be an ambassador!

Ohio is seeking new Tech Ambassadors to join its growing program.

Fourteen Tech Ambassadors regularly share their personal experiences through peer-to-peer mentoring sessions.

They talk about supportive technology, which can be equipment or services that enhance learning, working or daily living.

Tech Ambassadors come from all across Ohio. To apply, fill out an online form about how you use technology and why you want to help other people use technology.

Find more information at OhioTechAmbassadors.org/application.

▶ Colerain Township also hosts several bands at Colerain Park on Fridays beginning at 7 p.m.

Dates this summer include July 19, July 26, Aug. 2 and Aug. 30.

Main Library Re-Opening in July Join the Cincinnati and Hamilton County Public Library for a grand re-opening celebration of the main library’s south building from July 12-14. The weekend will be full of events and activities for all ages.

Renovations include a new roof, energy retrofit, A rendering shows the plaza renovations skylight and elevator replacement, and an interior at the library’s main branch downtown. refresh. One of the biggest renovations is also the re- Credit: Cincinnati and Hamilton County Public Library (CHPL) envisioned north and south plazas.

The plaza walls in both the South and North Plazas have been removed and the South Plaza has been lowered to street level to create a safer and more welcoming Vine Street entrance.

The new, at-grade South Plaza and large glass curtain wall will welcome library users to the revitalized atrium.

Learn more about the Main Library renovation and re-opening celebration at CHPL.org/next-generation.

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Features

Internships provide valuable on-the-job experience

By Krissy Vinson An internship is one way to build job experience for people who want to work. The Down Syndrome Association of Greater Cincinnati’s (DSAGC) internship program provides a healthy learning environment for adults with Down syndrome. As paid interns, each person can learn transferable skills for future community employment.

Once hired, the DSAGC staff team works with interns and their parents or caregivers to establish employment-related goals.

Interns are fully immersed in office culture during Intern Hannah Castle and DSAGC Early their one-year term. This allows them to build upon fine Matters Coordinator Maggie Ranz motor, executive function, social, communication, and Credit: Provided by DSAGC leadership skills. DSAGC staff work diligently with each intern to ensure they are learning, growing, and accomplishing their individual employment goals.

“I like to work,” said 2024 intern Brody Flynn. “The internship is good, so I can focus on my projects.”

DSAGC interns help with a variety of tasks. This includes preparing program materials, assisting during our weekly playgroup, assembling packets, cultivating relationships with donors, attending speaking engagements, and more.

“My favorite thing to do at work is mailings and helping with playgroup,” said intern Hannah Castle.

The Down Syndrome Association of Greater Cincinnati believes the internship program is an excellent opportunity for adults with Down syndrome who are entering the workforce, looking for an employment change, or part-time employees seeking additional training.

In addition to the internship program, the Down Syndrome Association of Greater Cincinnati offers hundreds of additional programs throughout the year. These programs focus on therapeutic, recreational, educational, and social opportunities for all ages and stages. Learn more at DSAGC.com Intern Brody Flynn and DSAGC Communication Coordinator Krissy Vinson on the radio

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Cincinnati Region Celebrates Disability Pride in July

By Molly Lyons In July 2015, a group of disability advocates, organizations, and supporters in Cincinnati came together to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

The ADA was passed on July 26, 1990. It’s a historic piece of legislation that protects the rights of people with disabilities. The ADA addresses rights for accommodations. It covers transportation, jobs, communications, and access to state and federal programs.

Over the past decade, these national celebrations have become monthlong Disability Pride celebrations. They take People with disabilities and supporters before a place throughout July to recognize the Disability Pride walk at Smale Riverfront Park in 2018. anniversary of the ADA. This year, the Cincinnati region is joining the national movement with a month of Disability Pride celebrations. Activities include proclamations from the City of Cincinnati and the Hamilton County Board of Commissioners and other accessible art and culture events. We encourage businesses, organizations, and local governments to raise Disability Pride flags.

Find the schedule of events at DisabilityPrideCincy.org. You can also pick up a copy at all Cincinnati and Hamilton County Public Library branches.

The original Disability Pride flag, designed by Ann Magill in 2019, featured a lightning bolt to symbolize how individuals with disabilities must navigate barriers, demonstrating their creativity and resilience. In 2021, the flag was redesigned by Magill and a group of disabled activists to include five colors, each representing a different aspect of the disability experience: red for physical disabilities, gold for intellectual and developmental disabilities, white for invisible and undiagnosed disabilities, blue for mental illness, and green for sensory disabilities.

This updated flag aims to encompass the broad spectrum of disabilities and foster a sense of unity and pride within the community.

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Features

Proclamation and Flag Raising, City of Cincinnati Noon-1 p.m. Monday, July 1 at City Hall, 801 Plum Street.

Join the City of Cincinnati officials for a kick-off of Disability Pride Month. The event includes raising the Disability Pride flag and proclamation celebrating people with disabilities in our city.

Abilities at Bat 1:40 p.m. Sunday, July 7 at Great American Ballpark.

The Abilities at Bat event at the Great American Ballpark highlights and celebrates individuals with disabilities in our community while building awareness of disability services. Accessibility options include assistive listening devices, support animals, wheelchair access and more.

Proclamation, Board of County Commissioners 1 p.m. Thursday, July 18 at the Hamilton County Administration Building, 138 E. Court St. The Hamilton County Board of Commissioners will read a proclamation recognizing July as Disability Pride Month.

Show of Hands Puppet Cabaret 8:30-10 p.m. Saturday, July 20 at Urban Artifact, 1660 Blue Rock St. Visionaries + Voices celebrates Disability Pride Month with an inclusive showcase of experimental puppetry. Riding the tides of our wildly fun SHOW OF HANDS Puppet Festival, V+V artists pair with community artists to present short form puppet shows for an adult-only audience. Accessibility options include earplugs, wheelchair access, and Braille.

Screening: “The Remarkable Life of Ibelin” 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, July 24 at the Kenwood Theatre.

This film explores the life of Mats Steen, a Norwegian gamer. It reveals the profound connections he forged in the virtual world.

Accessibility options include American Sign Language (ASL), closed captioning, and more.

Disability Pride: Nothing About Us, Without Us 12-4 p.m. Saturday, July 27 at the Deer Park branch library, 4020 E. Galbraith Road.

Come celebrate Disability Pride with the community.

If you want to be involved with Disability Pride Month, please email mlyons@laddinc.org.

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A Voice For Others Margaret Long uses her story to fight for victims of gun violence and disability rights.

By Lisa Danford

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“Sometimes, I have to use my hard voice,” Margaret Long says with a laugh. “If I feel like anything needs to be updated for accessibility, I’m going to tell someone.”

Long, 52, is a fierce disability rights advocate. She is deaf in her right ear and remembers being bullied in school for attending special education classes. But that wasn’t the experience that shaped her current advocacy.

A 50/50 chance

It was the summer of 1991. Long was about to turn 20 and spent the night out celebrating with friends. At the time, she didn’t live in a safe neighborhood and carried a knife to protect herself. On her way home, Long ran into her ex-boyfriend. They started arguing. He could tell she had been drinking, so he put his gun on the ground.

“I guess I had my knife on him and, whoever it was, picked up the gun on the ground and shot me,” she said. “The bullet hit me in the neck and came out my shoulder blade. It basically pierced my spine and paralyzed me on the spot.”

Long spent two weeks at UC Hospital, and doctors told her family there was a 50/50 chance she would survive. If she did, it was likely she wouldn’t be able to talk again.

She spent another eight weeks receiving physical, occupational and speech therapy.

“It was like being a newborn baby,” she said

Speaking at a Moms Demand Action event in 2021 to recognize 30 years since she was shot.

Cover Story about re-learning almost everything.

It took time to process what happened.

She cried a lot and was often in denial about her new reality. “At first, I was angry and bitter. But after a few months, I was adjusting and learning how to be in this new body and getting stronger,” she said.

A Voice for Others

“Margaret is not afraid to tell you what’s on her mind, but I like that about her,” says Rayshawn Smith, founder of Unheard Voices Cincinnati.

Smith, who is also a survivor of gun violence, works closely with Long Moving on local initiatives.

Forward “She keeps me on When she top of a lot. She’s got out of the a good person to rehabilitation work with and a center, Long good friend.” moved in with her Long is heavily sister and mom. involved with After a couple Moms Demand of years, she felt Action and other Skydiving is one of Margaret Long’s favorite activities. confident enough groups, sharing to move out on her story several her own. She got an apartment with a rolltimes a month. In January, Cincinnati City under sink and other accessible features.

Council recognized her as a National Gun One afternoon in 2007, Long heard Violence Survivors Week honoree. a familiar voice on the TV. It was Arthur Phelps—the man who shot her. “I was screaming at the top of my lungs. Then I laughed, and then I started crying again," she said. “I didn’t know what to do. It was a rollercoaster of emotions.”

Long met Phelps again at a community march in Avondale, 16 years after he shot her. “I wanted him to see what he did to me.

On the inside, I was angry, but I had to show forgiveness,” Long said.

Local media extensively covered their reunion, and together, they shared their story at schools, detention centers, and other community events. It sparked Long’s activism, and she’s been speaking out on local, statewide and national stages ever since.

In January 2024, Margaret Long was recognized

by Cincinnati City Council as a National Gun Violence Survivors Week honoree.

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“Gun violence often leads to disability— I’m going to fight for both,” she said.

Her advocacy also earned her the title of Ms. Wheelchair Ohio in 2011 with her platform—Endless Possibilities for People with Disabilities.

Closer to home, she pushed city and state officials to fix the sidewalks along Reading Road. It took countless phone calls, emails, and outreach to local media for the project to move forward. Now the area has curb cuts, a wider path for people who use wheelchairs, streetlights, and other features.

Her friend, Nakiea Spaulding, admires Long’s ability to always speak her mind and fight for what is right.

“She has a beautiful soul. Margaret is a go-getter and always has been,” Spaulding said. “I think that’s why we get along so well—we do not stop until we get what we want done.”

Even after nearly two decades of using her voice to create change, Long still continues to fight for better accessibility, transportation options, and other rights.

“People with disabilities often get left out. I’m not going to leave myself out, and I don’t want anybody else left out,” she said. “We’re trying to make the world more inclusive. Because without our voices, I don’t know who will fight for us.”

Margaret Long with family and friends after winning the 2011 Ms. Wheelchair Ohio crown.

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Margaret Long in 2016 with former Arizona Congresswoman Gabby Giffords, who is also a gun violence survivor.

"If I feel like anything needs to be updated for accessibility, I'm going to tell someone."

With Rayshawn Smith, founder of Unheard Voices.

Credit: All Photos Provided

Features

Assistive Technology can improve independence

By Michael Matacia and Robert Shuemak Ohio is a technology-first state, and we are prioritizing assistive technology. Assistive technology is any device that can support a person with a disability with a specific task at home, work, or in the community. This technology allows people with disabilities to become, or remain, as independent as possible.

Assistive technology is commercially bought, modified or customized to each person’s needs. Some examples include video cameras, GPS tracking devices, seizure monitors, personal emergency response systems, tablets, and communication apps.

As assistive technology coordinators, we regularly meet with people who receive our services, their families, and support staff.

These conversations help us understand which tech solutions best meet each person’s unique needs. We also help with training, repairs, and other resources.

One recent project to increase independence included a Ring video doorbell paired with an intelligent deadbolt lock. This allows the person to see who is outside, speak, and open the door with an app.

Another project includes an iPad with TouchChat, an augmentative and alternative communication app. The person we helped has difficulty speaking with their natural voice.

This app has customized words, phrases, and messages so they can communicate with other people.

Assistive technology is not just a tool but a personalized solution that improves independence and expands possibilities for people with disabilities.

Ryan Meyer recently got a new computer. "I waited six months patiently for my computer to arrive. When I got it, I was glad to have it. The computer tech guy helped me set it up with my apps, and he showed me some great tips. I’m five-star satisfied, and I’ve learned a lot, too."

Credit: Amy Hayden

To learn more about assistive technology or set up a consultation, reach out to Michael.Matacia@hamiltondds.org or Robert.Shuemak@hamiltondds.org.

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My Voice Hear from the people in your community!

Each issue of My Life features five people who live in Hamilton County. They share their interests, what issues are important to them, how they improve the community, their proudest accomplishments, and more.

Con editorialtact our sharing team about your v magazine @hamilt oice! ondds.or

g

Tapeka Turner North College Hill • 45 years old I am a very positive person and a survivor. I am blind and have a degenerative brain disorder.

Nothing stops me from living my life. I enjoy traveling and spending time with my grandson (age 3), who was recently diagnosed with Autism.

I am his biggest advocate. One day I will be less mobile, but as long as someone can push me, I’ll be just fine!

Sarah Phillips Norwood • 26 years old Given the fact that I live with two chronic disabilities, I have a history at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital longer than I care to admit. Resulting from a prenatal stroke and Turner Syndrome, I’ve had over 50 surgeries and procedures. Even from the outset, I knew that I wanted to return there as an employee, rather than a patient. In recent years, my dream became reality. My mission is to return the favor for those who gave me so much!

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My Voice

Savannah Martin Cincinnati • 32 years old My greatest achievement is overcoming my fears of new and different things coming into my life. It is my greatest achievement because I want more things in my life like getting married, having children, and owning my own business.

Sometimes my fears give me anxiety about trying new things, so overcoming it makes me feel a little bit like I can do anything.

Eddie Gregory Silverton • 35 years old I am a sports enthusiast, and my favorite team is FC Cincinnati. I love the parade marches and tailgate parties. The FC Cincinnati stadium is my home away from home, and I love the Bailey, that’s the super-fan section—the orange and blue smoke makes the stadium look amazing. I’m also a Cincinnati Reds fan. My goal is to collect all the City Connect Bobbleheads from the games and I’m halfway there.

Brandon Heil Cleves • 28 years old I started my own YouTube channel called Around the Track with B. I’ve been a fan of NASCAR since 2012, and I watch other NASCAR YouTubers and the games that they do. They encouraged me to start one as well. I post videos of me playing NASCAR Rivals on Nintendo Switch, including quick race, career mode, and championship season. My videos have some views and likes, and I have 20 subscribers.

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5

questions with Teddy Kremer, who became a local celebrity after being batboy for the Cincinnati Reds

How did you become a batboy for the Reds?

I love baseball, and my parents won a silent auction so I could be the batboy for Reds game. Being a batboy was awesome. It was awesome being with all my friends—Todd Frazier, Jay Bruce, Chris Heisey, and Dusty Baker.

After being a batboy, you became a celebrity. What’s it like getting recognized?

It was on the news and on ESPN. They did a show, E60: Teddy’s Ballgame, about me.

I’m honored to meet other people. I’m very happy signing autographs and taking pictures with them. I went on a vacation with my parents to Alaska. People were lining up for pictures. I’ve been recognized at Disney World, in Germany, and in Mexico.

How has that experience changed your life?

Being the batboy changed my life forever. I speak at a lot of schools, and talk about my life, growing up and being successful.

I like speaking to groups, so people know how important inclusion is to everyone.

The Cincinnati Reds made me into two 16

Credit: Provided

bobbleheads. I have my very own TOPPS baseball card. I also wrote a book about my life. It’s called Stealing First, because in baseball you are not able to steal first base.

And in my life, I was told many things I couldn’t do but I did!

Who are some of your favorite Reds players?

Todd Frazier is my buddy. Now, I like all of them—Spencer Steer, Elly De La Cruz, Matt McLain, Tyler Stephenson, Brent Suter, and manager David Bell.

What is something most people don’t know about you?

My favorite activity is ballroom dancing. I do the waltz, cha-cha and fox trot. I’ve competed with Arthur Murray and A-Marika Dance. I took Todd Frazier’s on-deck song, “Fly Me to the Moon,” and I won first place with that in a fox trot.

My Life

Get creative with this summer craft

By Amy Hayden, Mike Ginn and Seana Higgins

Materials: fish kite template (or plain, 11 x 17 sheet of paper), markers, scissors, hole punch, yarn, clear tape

Step 1: Cut out the fish shape.

Step 2: Choose at least 4 marker colors. Then color the fish shape.

Step 3: Punch out the nostrils of the fish using a hole punch.

Step 4: Fold the fish template in half, and secure the open side with clear tape.

Step 5: String yarn through both of the holes punched in the nostrils, and tie a knot in the top so the fish can hang.

Admire your beautiful work!

Scan this code for the fish kite template.

Credit: Seana Higgins

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With over 1,200 athletes and coaches, 2024 PigAbilities was a tremendous success! PigAbilities, sponsored by Ohio Valley Goodwill Industries, prides itself on its inclusivity and accessibility.

Hundreds of volunteers and supporters cheered on participants as they walked, ran, or rolled across the official Flying Pig Finish Swine to get their medals.

Congratulations to all the athletes!

Photos by Zoltan von Dienes-Oehm On March 27, Hamilton County Developmental Disabilities Services partnered with the 513Relief Bus for a collaborative stop focused on developmental needs. Accessible Hamilton County included fun activities, free meals and produce giveaways, music, medical screenings, a resource fair and more. Hamilton County commissioners also read a proclamation celebrating March as Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month.

Photo by HCDDS Visionaries + Voices celebrated the opening of ICONS: Queer Worship of Celebrity on May 17, along with a workshop where participants could learn about buttons and their role in community building, activism, or self-expression. Staff also dressed in a monochromatic rainbow theme inspired by the LGBTQAI+ spectrum. See ICONS at the Northside Studio through July.

Photos by Visionaries + Voices 18

mmissioners Denise Hamilton County co tendent ece, HCDDS Superin Driehaus, Alicia Re irose, Ma vocates Diana Leia Snyder, and ad . y Hayden Max Pierson, and Am

My Life

Calendar Braille Ale Release Party

Creative Writing Group

July 11. West Side Brewing.

Aug. 1. Oakley Library.

Celebrate the fifth anniversary of Braille Ale, a lightly sour ale with coriander and raspberry, with a portion of sales benefiting CABVI programs.

Join other advocates to write, create art, and share your work with others. Bring your own supplies.

HamiltonDDS.org/calendar

CincyBlind.org

Deaf Day in Pompeii July 13. Cincinnati Museum Center Join ASL interpreters for a tour of Pompeii: The Exhibition, which includes 150 artifacts that tell the tale of the city destroyed by Mount Vesuvius.

CincyMuseum.org/deaf-days

Sib Talk July 25. Virtual Join Ohio SIBS for a virtual session about voice and choice in the developmental disabilities system.

OhioSibs.org

Aruna Run Meetups Aug. 6. LeBlond Rec Center.

Join HCDDS community navigators to walk, run or roll to train for the Cincinnati Aruna Run. Group meets at 7 p.m. every Tuesday in August.

HamiltonDDS.org/calendar

Disability Q-mmunity Aug. 13. Treehouse Cincinnati.

A peer-support group and advocacy group for LGBTQ+ individuals with disabilities in the Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky area. Meets on the second Tuesday of each month.

CILO.net

Cincinnati Music Festival July 25-27. Various Locations Music festival featuring Maxwell, New Edition, En Vogue, Ne-Yo and other R&B and hip-hop artists.

CincyMusicFestival.com

War Paint: The Art of Drag July 27. Visionaries + Voices Follow along the entire process of putting on drag makeup and learn about drag as a form of activism and its history within the LGBT community.

VisionariesAndVoices.com

WEBN Fireworks Sept. 1. Sawyer Point Say goodbye to summer with one of the largest fireworks displays in the Midwest and a family-friendly festival.

VisitCincy.org/events

SOAR Expo Sept. 14. Lunken Airport.

A comprehensive showcase of cutting-edge healthcare products, services, mobility devices, and adaptive sport & recreation for people with disabilities.

MayWeHelp.org

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Audio version available now, thanks to CABVI’s Radio Reading Services!

My Life is a publication of Hamilton County Developmental Disabilities Services (HCDDS).

Our magazine empowers people with independent life skills, shares success stories, and promotes opportunities for advocacy and making connections. It’s created by and for people with developmental disabilities.