LOVELAND MAGAZINE

News and Events from the Loveland, Ohio Area

Without fear or favor
Since 2004

Tag: Disability

  • Courtney Explains It All With DJ Cowboy Jason Yockey!

    Courtney Explains It All With DJ Cowboy Jason Yockey!

    by Courtney Hineman

    Loveland, Ohio – The 3rd episode of Courtney Explains it All features an individual named Jason Yockey who is both a business owner and a fantastic self-advocate! Jason Yockey started his very own DJ business and so far, has seen a lot of success! Since he started about three years ago, Jason has DJ’d two weddings with the help of his friend David, a yearly campground event, about once a month at Empowered, and Fairfield Junior High’s 8th-grade dance. He has also done Empower’s all-state Banquet in Springfield, Ohio, and Our Lady of Victory’s Trike-a-Thon fundraiser.

    During my vlog episode, I asked Jason how he started his business, what he likes about being a DJ, and how he’s advocated for himself and others with disabilities. I hope you enjoy this episode, and our conversation makes you think about how you can help others with disabilities start their own business or do something they are passionate about!

    Contact and hire Jason – 513-290-9657

    Like and Follow Jason on FaceBook

    Donate to Jason via Venmo

    Here are Jason’s accounts to follow him

    djwesternbar.com

    youtube.com/@jasonspotify

    @jason_spotify_com

    Courtney Hineman is a disability rights advocate. She is the Community Outreach Advocate at the Butler County Board of Developmental Disabilities and was appointed by Governor DeWine to the Ohio Developmental Disabilities Council for the second term. She is a member of Butler County’s self-advocacy group, and enjoys participating in Best Buddies.

    In April, 2025 Courtney took her advocacy on the road to Washington, D.C., to attend the Disability Policy Seminar and Advocacy Day. While in D.C., Courtney met many disability and inclusion fellow advocates, shared her story, and explained why disability policies are vital to the developmental disability community with several U.S. legislators.”

    [WATCH INTERVIEW] Courtney Hineman took her advocacy on the road to D.C.

    My desire is that you will find the following organizations helpful as we continue our journey together!

     

    Butler County Board of Developmental Disabilities

    The Butler County Board of Developmental Disabilities supports over 4,100 Butler County Residents. Supports and services are available life-long through contracts with partner agencies or directly provided by our Board.

    Founded in 1967, the Butler County Board of Developmental Disabilities supports over 4,100 people. Supports and services are available life-long through partner agencies or directly provided by our Board.

    Much of our services go beyond the walls of our facilities and take place in the community. The Board’s supports are geared toward the philosophy of person-centered thinking, which places the individual at the center of decisions made about the services they receive. We are committed to helping people determine their dreams and helping to make those dreams come true.

    Hamilton County Board of Developmental Disabilities

    Hamilton County Developmental Disabilities Services (HCDDS) is a government social services agency established by state law. For more than 50 years, HCDDS has provided educational, vocational, and residential support and services to thousands of individuals with developmental disabilities (DD). Each year, we support approximately 7,300 people with intellectual and developmental disabilities throughout their lives, from babies through seniors, by providing case management, monitoring service quality, and funding services provided by our community partners.

    We treat each person we serve as a unique individual and connect them to services to reflect the life they want. By collaborating with more than 1,000 certified providers, we’re able to support people to live a life that is important and meaningful to them, on their own terms.

    Clermont County Board of Developmental Disabilities

    The mission of the Clermont County Board of Developmental Disabilities is to help those we serve expand capabilities and navigate the possibilities. We envision a culture comprised of inclusive communities where people with disabilities thrive and live a life on their own terms. Individuals and families served by the Clermont County Board of DD have the right of choice and flexibility regarding what, how and where services are provided.  Individuals and families will be empowered to make decisions, become partners and work cooperatively with professionals, and exert control over the services provided to them.

    Warren County Board of Developmental Disabilities

    The Warren County Board of Developmental Disabilities provides services and supports to over 2,400 people in Warren County who have developmental disabilities. The mission of the board is supporting people with disabilities and their families to achieve what is important to them. The Board employs 127 people in full and part time positions. We operate out of four locations in Warren County, and have an annual budget of $30,500,000.00. More than 65% of our revenue is derived from local levy funds.

    Ohio Developmental Disabilities Council

     

    The mission of the Ohio Developmental Disabilities Council (Ohio DD Council) is to create change that improves independence, productivity and inclusion for people with developmental disabilities and their families in community life. The Ohio DD Council operates under the authority of the federal Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act of 2000 (DD Act) and is a part of the Ohio DD Network. The Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities assists and supports the Ohio DD Council as the federally mandated designated state agency.

  • [Watch] Empowering Lives: Celebrating Vocational Rehabilitation

    [Watch] Empowering Lives: Celebrating Vocational Rehabilitation

    What term best captures the essence of vocational rehabilitation, focused on empowering individuals with disabilities to secure and maintain meaningful employment? Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities invites you to watch their “Vocational Rehabilitation in One Word” video to hear insights from staff, partners, and participants who have experienced this transformative journey.

    On March 22, 2025, Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities observed National Rehabilitation Counselors Appreciation Day. This is an opportunity to express gratitude to the counselors and staff of the Bureaus of Vocational Rehabilitation and Services for the Visually Impaired.

    “We honor their unwavering commitment to providing personalized, direct services that help individuals with disabilities successfully find and sustain meaningful work.”

    If you or someone you know has a disability and would like to work, visit OODWorks.com or call 800-282-4536.

  • Disability Pride Event: Nothing About Us Without Us

    Disability Pride Event: Nothing About Us Without Us

    Where? Deer Park Branch Library 4020 E Galbraith Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45236

    When? Saturday, July 27, 12:00-4:00PM

    Join the Cincinnati Public Library and Independence Alliance for a day of education, celebration, and community. They will have community resource tables, self-advocacy training, small break-out sessions, and an open-mic opportunity. Art Beyond Boundaries, an Independence Alliance program, will be displaying art pieces event space.

    Accessibility is the top priority. Contact Dee Henry by email or by phone at 513-241-8046 to request an accommodation.

    Event accessibility includes:

    • This is a wheelchair-accessible location with an accessible parking lot.
    • This is a fragrance-free event space.
    • There will be seating provided including chairs with no arms on the side.
    • American Sign Language interpreters will be present throughout the duration of the event.
    • Sensory refresh rooms will be available.
    • Plastic drinking straws will be available.

    View this event on Disability Pride Cincy’s website.

    ____________

    Independence Alliance is funded in part by:

    • U.S. Department of Health and Human Services – Administration for Community Living
    • U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development
    • Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities
    • Kentucky Housing Corporation
    Older men eating together at an outside table

    Am I eligible for Independence Alliance Services?

    People with permanent physical, cognitive, sensory or psychological disabilities that substantially limit one or more major life activities (for example caring for one’s self, walking, seeing, hearing, speaking, breathing, working, performing manual tasks, or learning) are eligible for Independence Alliance’s core services based on self-identification of their disability. Some ancillary services may require additional documentation related to a person’s disability.

    More About Independence Alliance Services

  • [Video Interview] Cassie Mattia Talks With Autism Awareness Advocate Tim Livelsburger

    [Video Interview] Cassie Mattia Talks With Autism Awareness Advocate Tim Livelsburger

    David Miller is the Managing Editor of Loveland Magazine

    by David Miller

    Loveland, Ohio – In celebration of Autism Acceptance Month, Cassie Mattia invited a very special guest to share his story with the community. Tim Livelsburger is not only advocating for those with Autism within the community, but he is also using his experiences as a learning tool to help those that may be encountering obstacles due to their disability.

    Tim is thriving and wants nothing more than to use his voice to help others with developmental disabilities achieve their goals! He told Cassie what obstacles he overcame, and how he is now exceeding his ultimate goals.

    Cassie, besides being the President and Publisher of Loveland Magazine is the Public Relations Coordinator for the Butler County Board of Developmental Disabilities. She asked LOVELAND MAGAZINE TV and myself to travel to the BCBDD’s office in Hamilton with our video equipment to help produce the interview and wanted us to share it with you, our faithful Loveland Magazine readers.

    I couldn’t be more thankful to have a business partner with the values of Cassie and that she seeks out someone like Tim to interview, someone who is doing wonderful things within his Autism family and the broader family we all hope to have an impact on. Thank you Tim, Cassie, and the Butler County Board of Developmental Disabilities for what you are dedicating your life’s work toward; inclusion, understanding, and acceptance of each individual.

    Happy Autism Acceptance Month to each of you and to our readers.

    President and Publisher of Loveland Magazine, Cassie Mattia is a resident of Historic Downtown Loveland and the Public Relations Coordinator at Butler County Board of DD. Cassie was awarded the Little Miami River Chamber Alliance 2021 Young Business Professional of the Year.

     

  • Coming soon to our pages: Cassie Mattia’s interview with Tim Livelsburger

    Coming soon to our pages: Cassie Mattia’s interview with Tim Livelsburger

    Loveland, Ohio – In celebration of Autism Acceptance Month, LOVELAND MAGAZINE TV was invited to collaborate with the Butler County Board of Developmental Disabilities in filming and producing an interview that Cassie Mattia conducted with Tim Livelsburger.

    “Livelsburger is not only advocating for those with Autism within the community, but he is also using his experiences as a learning tool to help those that are encountering their own obstacles due to their disability! Tim sat down with BCBDD PR Coordinator Cassie Mattia to talk about his disability and how he has overcome so many obstacles along the way. Tim is thriving and wants nothing more than to use his voice to help others with developmental disabilities achieve their goals!”

    Stay tuned to see the full-length interview coming soon!

  • Would your loved one with special needs like a visit from the Candy Police

    Would your loved one with special needs like a visit from the Candy Police

    Loveland, Ohio – The Loveland Police Department wants to make Halloween a special day for children and adults with special needs.

    If you reside within the City of Loveland or Hamilton Township and have a loved one living with a disability or special needs, you can request an officer to visit. The “Candy Police” will deliver a special treat on Oct. 31 between 5-8 PM.

    If you’d like to sign up, please contact Lieutenant Mike Szpak at (513) 707-6116 or mszpak@lovelandoh.gov by Oct. 29. You will need to provide your loved one’s name, address, and phone number.

    If you would like to donate candy or treats, please contact Lt. Szpak.

  • Ageless Tenacity: Olivia’s Path to Employment

    Ageless Tenacity: Olivia’s Path to Employment

    Meet Olivia, a resilient and determined woman whose unwavering spirit and strength inspire those around her. In the face of significant health challenges and the devasting loss of her beloved mother, Olivia refused to let adversity define her. Instead, she embraced her grief and health struggles as catalysts for growth, propelling her to reclaim her life and career.

    After getting treatment for her depression, Olivia was eager to get back to work and sought out assistance from CommQuest Services, Inc. in 2010. She met with Phillip Paschal, an Employment Specialist at CommQuest Services, Inc. Together they worked on preparing to get Olivia back to work.

    Throughout the years, Olivia worked at various jobs despite blindness in one eye, diabetes, and throat cancer. Her jobs included cleaning, working in fast food, and holding a position at a retirement village. When her mother passed away, Olivia became depressed and was temporarily unable to work.

    In 2017, Olivia had quadruple bypass surgery and was unable to work. However, throughout her recovery, she continued to work with Phillip. Eventually, Phillip connected Olivia with Christine Crine, who was a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor with Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities (OOD). Christine helped Olivia find a job at Coastal Pets Products in January 2020. However, Olivia became ill with COVID and was hospitalized for five weeks. Costal Pets Products held her job for her, but Olivia decided to resign due to a long recovery period, including a stay in a nursing home and outpatient physical therapy.

    Through all her struggles, Olivia was determined to go back to work. “Olivia never gave up,” said Phillip. “She is a great client and great to work with. She has a great sense of humor that makes time pass quickly on the job,” he added.

    In October 2022, Olivia began working with Erika Salewsky, OOD Senior Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor. Olivia was hired as a pizza prep at Little Caesars Pizza in North Canton, Ohio a few months later, working three days a week. Phillip helped Olivia become acclimated to the job. Erika provided bus passes to help Olivia get back and forth to work.

    “Olivia is very reliable,” said Jermain Davenport, Manager at Little Caesars Pizza. “She outworks the younger people.”

    Olivia said, “Work is recovery. You get to meet different people and learn new things.”  “I’m still learning at the age of 72,” she added.

    “It has been my pleasure to work with Olivia,” said Erika. “She is a very motivated woman, and her outlook on life is nothing short of inspiring. While she has had her past struggles, we can all learn from her sense of humor and optimism toward the future.”

    If you or someone you know has a disability and would like to work, visit OODWorks.com or call 800-282-4536.

  • Nine rare cancers tied to burn pit exposure added to VA benefits list

    Nine rare cancers tied to burn pit exposure added to VA benefits list

    BY: JENNIFER SHUTT Ohio Capital Journal

    WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs is adding nine rare respiratory cancers linked to burn pit exposure to the list of illnesses eligible for disability and health benefits.

    President Joe Biden, who has said his son Beau Biden’s exposure to toxic fumes from the pits could have led to his death, announced the policy change Monday, saying in a statement he hopes to avoid repeating mistakes of the past.

    “We learned a horrible lesson after Vietnam, when the harmful effects of exposure to Agent Orange sometimes took years to manifest, and too many veterans were left unable to access the care they needed,” Biden said. “I refuse to repeat that mistake when it comes to the veterans of our wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.”

    The VA said Monday that it will begin processing disability compensation claims for former U.S. military members who were in Southwest Asia from Aug. 2, 1990, to the present or in Afghanistan, Djibouti, Syria, or Uzbekistan from Sept. 19, 2001, to the present.

    The cancers include squamous cell carcinoma of the larynx, squamous cell carcinoma of the trachea, adenocarcinoma of the trachea, salivary gland-type tumors of the trachea, adenosquamous carcinoma of the lung, large cell carcinoma of the lung, salivary gland-type tumors of the lung, sarcomatoid carcinoma of the lung and typical and atypical carcinoid of the lung.

    The VA said it plans to contact veterans who fall under the new rule, which will be published on Tuesday, or survivors, to tell them how to apply for benefits.

    Veterans or survivors who had prior claims denied can file a supplemental claim for benefits, according to the VA announcement.

    VA Secretary Denis McDonough said in a statement the change in policy will ensure “veterans who suffer from these rare respiratory cancers will finally get” the health care and benefits they “deserve, without having to prove causality between their service and their condition.”

    The VA said “a focused review of scientific and medical evidence” determined that “there is biological plausibility between airborne hazards and carcinogenesis of the respiratory tract — and the unique circumstances of these rare cancers warrant a presumption of service connection.”

    Biden originally announced the VA would add nine cancers to the eligibility list during his State of the Union address in March. 

    At the time, Biden said burn pits — which incinerated medical and hazard material, jet fuel and other substances — were one of the many dangers U.S. soldiers faced during deployments.

    “When they came home, many of the world’s fittest and best trained warriors were never the same,” Biden said during his speech. “Headaches. Numbness. Dizziness. A cancer that would put them in a flag-draped coffin.”

    Biden, in his State of the Union address and his statement Monday, called on Congress to “pass bipartisan legislation to comprehensively address toxic exposures and further deliver the vital benefits our veterans have earned.”

    The U.S. Senate unanimously approved a bipartisan bill from Montana Democratic Sen. Jon Tester and Kansas GOP Sen. Jerry Moran in mid-February that is the first of three pieces of legislation meant to address health care needs linked to burn pits.

    When announcing the $1 billion legislation in early February, Moran said that 3.5 million combat veterans have experienced some level of toxic exposure since 9/11.

    “This is the first step on a continuum of trying to make certain that those who experienced toxic exposure, and as a result are suffering in their health and well-being, receive medical benefits,” Moran said at the time.

    The U.S. House voted 256-174 in early March to approve a separate bill that would be much larger in scope and price.

    That legislation, referred to as the Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics or PACT Act, would cost about $280 billion during the next decade.

    House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer, a Maryland Democrat, said during floor debate the legislation would “expand veterans’ health care access and benefits to address the effects of these toxic exposures that occurred during their military service.”

    “We asked our veterans to go to battle for America, and they answered that call,” Hoyer said. “When they return home, veterans should not have to go to battle against red tape to receive the medical treatment and benefits they have earned through their service.”

  • Disability-Related Hate Crimes up sharply, FBI data shows

    Disability-Related Hate Crimes up sharply, FBI data shows

    Newly-released data indicates that hate crime incidents targeting people with disabilities are on the rise.

    There were 177 reported hate crime offenses stemming from disability bias in 2018, according to figures out this week from the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting Program. By comparison, there were 128 similar offenses the year prior.

    Read on at Disability Scoop, The Premier Source for Developmental Disability News…