We delve into the world of people with disabilities who identify as nerds and geeks. While some might think the term is insulting, our guests today wear these titles as a badge of honor.

Disability advocates Emily Bridges and  Rachael Davis talk about the different aspects of nerd culture and why they find the community accepting of those with disabilities.

Max McClure talks about the challenge of making geek culture accessible.

Lastly we hear from  Katie O’Rear, a self-described chicken geek.

So today, as you polish your Star Wars action figures, turn off “Weird Al” and listen to Pushing Limits instead.

Emily Bridges, MPH, CHES, Pronouns: She/Her/Hers, is a Public Health Advocate at the Independent Living Resource Center in Ventura, California.

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1. The Geeky Gimp (NOTE:  The website’s creator uses the term “gimp” as a way to reclaim an oppressive word and turn it into a word of empowerment):

2. Disabled Gamers, Geeks, and Nerds on Facebook. A community for PWD to share thoughts on”anything geek oriented.

3. The Learned Fangirl: Committed to providing critiques from women and people of color on pop culture, technology, and other related topics.

Residents who were affected by the severe storms and flooding can update their FEMA applications and learn about state and community programs and other available assistance.

Each DRC provides the following standard accessibility resources:

Merced County Fairgrounds (Yosemite Building)

900 Martin Luther King Jr. Way

Merced, CA 95341

Hours of operation: 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily

Dates: January 18 through 25, 2023

Chabolla Community Center

600 Chabolla Avenue

Galt, CA 95632

Hours of operation: 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily

Dates: January 18 through February 1, 2023

Ramsay Park Family Center

1301 Main St.

Watsonville, CA 95076

Hours of operation: 9:00 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily

Dates: January 21 through February 18, 2023

Support for Californians impacted by the winter storms:

2023 Winter Storms Recovery (English)

2023 Winter Storms Recovery (Spanish)

For an accessible video on how to apply, go to FEMA Accessible: Three Ways to Register for FEMA Disaster Assistance.

This video covers how to register: Important Registration Assistance Information for People with Disabilities

This video covers very specifically question 24 (1 minute video):

Applying for Assistance: Important Information for People with Disabilities (Question 24

Individuals and Households Program Disability Cap

California Severe Winter Storms, Flooding, Landslides, and Mudslides DR-4683-CA

The fastest way to apply is through DisasterAssistance.gov. You can also apply through the FEMA mobile app or by calling 1-800-621-3362. If you use a video relay service, captioned telephone service, or other communication services, please provide FEMA the specific number assigned for that service. Press 2 for Spanish. Press 3 for an interpreter who speaks your language.

Find help with needs that FEMA is not authorized to provide. Check with your local emergency management officials, voluntary agencies, or by dialing your local 2-1-1.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

You will receive notification letters from FEMA either by U.S. mail or by electronic correspondence explaining your next steps. If you reported during the application process that you received damage and are not able to live in your primary residence, an inspector will contact you by phone to schedule an inspection. FEMA home inspections are conducted in-person; however, if you are apprehensive due to ongoing COVID-19 uncertainties, you can request we conduct the inspection without entering your home. Learn more about the steps after applying.

Translated into 27 languages, the “Help After a Disaster” brochure is a tool that can be shared in your community to help people understand the types of FEMA assistance that may be available to support individuals and families in disaster recovery. Download brochures.

L. Vance Taylor

Chief, Office of Access and Functional Needs

California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services

3650 Schriever Avenue

Mather, CA  95655

[email protected]

916-845-8202 (o)

916-205-1630 (c)

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This episode of Pushing Limits is produced by Jacob Lesner-Buxton and hosted by Mark Romoser and with editing assistance from Mark Romoser, Sheela Gunn-Cushman and Adrienne Lauby.

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