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Disabled People Are People!!

Tuesday Thoughts: What is the difference between a

Tuesday Thoughts: What is the difference between a person we call a genius and a person we call disabled?

NOTHING! Two people that have the same mental capabilities, except one has created something that bakes our community is called a genius; one that does not is called disabled
[image description: A brown-skinned woman with dark brown hair wearing a black t-shirt that says Accessible Future in white letters on it]

TUESDAY THOUGHTS: Hindsight is 2020 When things do

TUESDAY THOUGHTS: Hindsight is 2020
When things don’t go as expected, we get upset and look for things or people to blame. Instead, we should give ourselves time to process, let our emotions settle, and come up with solutions or explanations for what went wrong.
[image description: a brown skin woman with dark brown hair, wearing a black T-shirt that says in white letters accessible future]

Exciting news! The first accessible public Downto

Exciting news! The first accessible public Downtown Loo (bathroom ) in Asheville.

I love that as a permanent wheelchair user, I can go Downtown and use a bathroom, which has never been true as most businesses there DO NOT have accessible bathrooms!

If I have to feel thankful about an accessible bathroom, when am I ever gonna be equal in the community? ~Judy Heumann (if you don't know who she is look her up😊)

Introducing the Downtown Loo!

The City of Asheville is excited to announce the opening of a 24/7 accessible public restroom in the heart of downtown. Located in the public space at the corner of College Street and Rankin Avenue, the prefabricated facility is designed to enhance downtown amenities, promote public health, and support economic activity – all of which are especially important in the aftermath of Tropical Storm Helene.

The Downtown Loo project was funded by American Rescue Plan Act funds and features a modern, durable design that prioritizes safety, accessibility, and maintainability. Key features include:
>> 24/7 Access: Ensuring a public restroom facility open to residents and visitors around the clock.
>> ADA Accessibility: Designed to accommodate individuals with disabilities.
>> Optimal Location: Proximity to center of downtown activity and adjacent to the Rankin Parking Garage allowing for increased public safety measures.
>> Robust Design: Built to withstand heavy use and minimize maintenance costs.

Additional investments in the surrounding public space include a new irrigation system and landscaping, new lighting, and the installation of security cameras.

The City of Asheville would like to thank the many stakeholders who contributed to the planning and development of this project, including downtown businesses, homelessness service providers, residents, the Downtown Commission, and the Asheville Downtown Association, as well as the project team from B. Allen Construction and Osgood Landscape Architecture.

Tuesday Thoughts: Fighting for what you believe in

Tuesday Thoughts: Fighting for what you believe in you may not always win. If you don’t fight, you will definitely lose.

My work is teaching people how they include disabled people in our communities

Asheville Artists have been severely impacted by Tropical Storm Helene. Support one of my favorite ones @edwinsalasart by buying Asheville Will Survive T-shirt or print.
He is an incredible artist whose soul is about being there for a community when they need him.

[image description: brown skinned woman wearing a black T-shirt with white graphic that in black says Asheville Will Survive with phoenix rising. Art by @edwinsalasart ]

BOIL ASVISORY LIFTED Lead in water in Homes b4 198

BOIL ASVISORY LIFTED
Lead in water in Homes b4 1988

Monday Minute for Nov. 18th with Asheville Councilmember Kim Roney: Drinking water and lead testing

There’s understandable excitement about the return of potable water being available today ahead of schedule thanks to our diligent staff and supporting partners working around the clock. There are also questions about lead in our drinking water after news that the City’s zinc orthophosphate treatment lagged for 19 days.

Though tests show there isn’t lead at the water source at North Fork, homes and buildings built before 1988 are at risk for lead at the tap.

The formal recommendation from Buncombe County as of this morning:

“Use bottled water: Drinking bottled water is the safest way to avoid lead exposure. Bottled water is being distributed throughout the City and County. […] Residents are encouraged to use these resources as needed.”

Bottled water is still available at the CCS and PODS sites. There has been some confusion from residents since the National Guard is transitioning out; however, a contractor is transitioning in to continue bottled water distribution.

What I have asked to support the public through this transition and to maintain trust:

1. Make raw data/testing public. I continue to review sample testing data on the spreadsheet available. That spreadsheet involves a level of human function, and it seems that even though it may be difficult to interpret, a process that shows what the actual testing looks like might add to public awareness and trust.

2. Timelines for drinkable water. The “Leadership update” email on November 15th reads as if our contracted service for water pickup is indefinite. What is the deadline for that contract, even if it is extendable?

What can you do?

Participate in free lead testing. Water Resources will be verifying “the effectiveness of corrosion control treatment. […] To request a testing kit, or for more information on protecting against lead exposure, contact Water Resources at 828-259-5962 or email leadprevention@ashevillenc.gov.

As always, you can reach the full Council at ashevilleNCcouncil@ashevilleNC.gov
#water #potablewater #drinkingwater #Asheville

DISABLED FOLKS THIS IS IMPORTANT 📢 Important

DISABLED FOLKS THIS IS IMPORTANT

📢 Important Water Recovery Update reposted from @cityofasheville Water Resources: (en español via @spanishdict in los comentarios…)

“In partnership with NC Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) and EPA, Asheville Water Resources has launched a sampling program to test for lead and copper across our water system.

“Structures built before 1988 have increased risk for lead in internal plumbing. Depending on pipe materials, lead may be found in water that has sat undisturbed in household plumbing for 4-6 hours and could pose serious health risks if ingested.

Health Precautions
“Lead exposure is especially risky for pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and children under six. It is important to note external use such as showering, dishwashing and washing clothes are not at risk for lead exposure. If you have concerns regarding exposure to lead and are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have children under 6 please contact your healthcare provider.

“Until the ongoing boil water notice is lifted, residents and schools are advised to use the following steps to avoid lead exposure:

“Use bottled water: Drinking bottled water is the safest way to avoid lead exposure. Bottled water is being distributed throughout the City and County. Free potable water is available at multiple distribution sites across the City and County. Residents are encouraged to use these resources as needed.

“Boil water guidance: If you must use the tap water for consumption it is recommended to run tap water for 30 seconds to two minutes or until a temperature change is noticed each time before boiling. This EPA-recommended flushing practice can reduce potential lead presence in the short term.

“No water bills are currently being issued, so additional flushing will not incur costs for residents.

Free Lead Testing Available:

“Homes built before 1988 are encouraged to participate in free lead testing. For more information, call 828-259-5962 or email leadprevention@ashevillenc.gov.

“Stay informed and visit ashevilleNC.gov/leadawareness for updates on water safety measures.”

#water #drinkwater #leadpoisoningprevention
#hurricanehelene #disasterrecovery

Tuesday Thoughts: Too many thoughts When things

Tuesday Thoughts: Too many thoughts

When things change, and you have so many thoughts, you don’t need to share them immediately. Give yourself time to process and share them over time.
Yes!! I know! We all love CAVITY
@cavityad 🤣❤️🥰
[image description: A brown-skinned woman with dark brown hair wearing a black shirt with a white graphic that says CAVITY]

HELP DISABLED PEOPLE STAY CLEAN!!! Our mutual aid

HELP DISABLED PEOPLE STAY CLEAN!!!

Our mutual aid fund is still going strong! We’re continuing to raise money to help disabled people access hygiene essentials in the aftermath of Tropical Storm Helene. Thanks to everyone’s support, we’ve already raised enough to provide shower pumps, disposable washcloths, and no-rinse bathing supplies. A huge thanks to Emote and Fire Storm for helping us distribute these supplies in their stores!

If you’re disabled and need assistance with bathing, you can now find these supplies at Emote and Fire Storm. We’ll keep updating as we bring in more supplies and locations.

If you’d like to help us keep this going, please consider donating! LINK IN BIO
Thank you for being part of this effort to keep our community safe and clean!
[image description: Graphic that has the details of the Mutuel aid. Black text white background]
[image description:a photograph of supplies on the floor]

Vote!!! [image description: brown skinned woman wi

Vote!!!
[image description: brown skinned woman with dark brown hair wearing a black T-shirt with a white graphic. ]

HELP DISABLED PEOPLE STAY CLEAN! So excited to hav

HELP DISABLED PEOPLE STAY CLEAN!
So excited to have a Spa Day with the magical harp sounds provided by Tori! Enjoy this and please consider donating to the DIYabled Mutual Fund. Link in bio. 🙏🏾❤️
Repost from @ashevilleharpist
•
Don your cucumbers and ur fluffiest robes! 🥒 🧖🏻‍♀️

Tuesday Nov 5 at 8PM EST - join me for a Livestream concert of the most soothing spa music.

Take a break from witnessing the horrors of our time to regulate your nervous system 😘

Live stream will be allll the most soothing music I can come up with PLUS I’ll be sharing my two new original songs I premiered at the @blueridgepride open mic last week!

I’d love to see you there, but if ya can’t, catch the replay 😘

This week’s highlighted group to help WNC recover is @diyabled! Who is and has been helping support disabled folks who are often left without support and resources in disasters like the one we faced here in these mountains.

👉🏻 swipe for info on how to support @diyabled 💕

And if you haven’t voted yet… here’s a gentle reminder (way gentler than the millions of texts I’m sure you’re also getting) to head to the polls 💕

#asheville #ashevilleharpist #ncharpist #liveharp #harpconcert #wncstrong #ashevillestrong

PPS still obsessed with this @freddyoak_music song 💕

DISABLED PEOPLE!! This election is so close. We

DISABLED PEOPLE!!
This election is so close.

We are here and not going anywhere!! If you’re not with us then get the heck out our way!!!! ✊🏾💥🔥
We can be the voting bloc that makes the difference!
VOTE!
Make a plan and let’s do it!!
THANK YOU!!
@newdisabledsouth
@disabilityculturelab, @detroitdisabilitypower
@aapdofficial

DISABLED PEOPLE VOTE! Our Voice matters! Make a p

DISABLED PEOPLE VOTE!
Our Voice matters!
Make a plan to vote before you go to the polls November 5!!

ID Did you know that disabled voters represent a significant and influential voting bloc?

ID In the 2020 elections, an estimated 17.7 million voters with disabilities cast their ballots.
This number is comparable to 18.9 million Black voters and
16.5 million Hispanic/Latino voters in the same election.

ID In 2022, 14% of disabled voters reported difficulties voting That is 2.2 million people facing obstacles to exercising their democratic right.
If disabled people voted at the same rate as nondisabled people, we could see an additional 2 million voters!

ID Disabled votes can influence policies affecting disability rights, healthcare, employment, accessibility, and more.

ID High turnout demonstrates the strength of the disability community. This makes politicians more likely to focus on our concerns. Let’s work together to increase accessibility and turnout!

Disabled people. We got money for our community to

Disabled people. We got money for our community to get things for you be clean. Please fill out the Google Form in bio.
[image description: a brown skin woman with dark brown hair, wearing a blue T-shirt]

Vote for NC!!! North Carolina! Wondering where you

Polls and media are constructs we have created to

Polls and media are constructs we have created to give a peek into the unknown influences of our democracy. If you are disabled, you know how even though we are part of the largest group of marginalized people in our communities, we are overlooked and invisible. We are not! Vote and let your disabled voices be heard!!!
Repost from @newdisabledsouthrising
•
As we charge ahead into the homestretch of this election season and settle into what our work will be once the ballots are counted, we cannot emphasize enough the significance of the #DisabilityVote in the South and the political power of our community.

We’re excited to share a new report produced in collaboration with @DisabilityCultureLab Action, Power of the Disability Vote Across Southern Swing States. This emerging research reveals that disabled voters are a critical constituency in every major southern swing state, and that working to grow disabled power will be crucial to electoral success now and in the future. Read the report at the link in our bio.

Image description:
A graphic with a blue background that includes New Disabled South Rising and Disability Culture Lab Action logos in the top corners. Text in the center says, “New Report: Power of the Disability Vote Across Southern Swing States.” Below that are images of arms held upward with ballots and signs in hand. The signs say “vote.”

MUTUAL AID FOR DISABLED AND IMMUNE-COMPROMISED PEO

Early voting will continue until Nov 2. These loc

Early voting will continue until Nov 2.
These locations will be open 9 am - 5 pm.
Bring a federal or state issued ID.
====================
1. Black Mountain Library, 105 N.
Dougherty St
2. East Asheville Library, 3 Avon Rd
3. Enka-Candler Library, 1404 Sand Hill Rd
4. Fairview Library, 1 Taylor Rd
5.Leicester Community Center,
2979 New Leicester Hwy
6.South Buncombe Library, 260
Overlook Rd
7. UNCA Health & Counseling Center, 118 WT Weaver BIvd
8. Weaverville Community Center,
60 Lakeshore Dr
9. Wesley Grant Southside Center,
285 Livingston St
10. West Asheville Library, 942
Haywood Rd

For more information, including how many voters are currently in line, visit BuncombeCounty.org/VOTE

Para obtener más información, incluido cuántos votantes hay actualmente en fila, visite
BuncombeCounty.org/VOTE

From Asheville Community and Public engagement [i

From Asheville Community and Public engagement
[image description: Screenshot of a email from the Asheville Public and Community Engagement that saysThose who have trouble traveling/
leaving the house due to health and mobility challenges and who need supplies at home can call a non-
emergency number 828-250-6650]

ADA SHOWER UPDATE!!! Pic and video is At Home Stor

ADA SHOWER UPDATE!!!
Pic and video is At Home Store shower at 980 Brevard Rd.

In the chaos, Buncombe County and the City of Asheville made a mistake about the Care Centers that are provided by Buncombe County, NOT Asheville.
The centers are not ADA-compliant, but some have complaint showers and bathrooms. The list of those is below. These are also available in the Google Docs in the bio.
The other services may not be accessible, but people are there to assist.
Parking is not accessible, but if you need to be accommodated, please ask someone there where you can park.
-At Home Store (Parking Lot), 980 Brevard Rd (ADA accessible shower and restroom)
-Big Lots/Innsbruck Mall, 85 Tunnel Rd.
-Buncombe County Sports Park, 58 Apac Dr. (ADA accessible shower and restroom available)
-Bethel United Methodist, 1050 Riceville Rd. (ADA accessible shower and restroom available)
-AC Reynolds High School, 1 Rocket Dr (ADA accessible shower and restroom available)
-Ingles, 225 Charlotte Hwy (ADA accessible shower and restroom available)
-Ingles, 2319 US Hwy 70
Morgan Hill Baptist Church, 594 Barnardsville Hwy (ADA accessible shower and restroom available)
-The Care Stations provide showers (bring your towels and toiletries), laundry, porta-johns, handwashing, charging, Starlink, Red Cross, Novant Medical, and food and water distribution.

OPTION 1 More ADA showers? OPTION 2 Free no rins

OPTION 1
More ADA showers?
OPTION 2
Free no rinse soap/shampoo?
OPTION 3
Free water pump/camping shower?

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