Dr. York at the RNA’s Water Legacy– Heritage for the Future Event
Held November 6, 2004
Dr. Ed York has worked for many years to make the community a safer place for the disabled in our community. He works with his devoted friends through a non-profit organization to pursue the application of the Americans with Disabilities Act. This act regulates better public access for the disabled in housing, business, public buildings, parking, public transportation, and safe access to sidewalks. There are federal standards to ensure the safety of disabled persons, and Mr. York has worked tirelessly as a volunteer to bring various projects within Clark County into compliance.
The next time you enter a public building with stairs, look to see if there is wheelchair access. When you go to the store, a restaurant, or any public building, look for the blue signage and markings on the parking stalls that indicate specific parking spaces are for the use of the disabled. These are accommodations that are needed by the disabled community. Many of us take for granted that we can enter any building without having to worry about stairs or looking for parking that can accommodate a wheelchair lift.
Mr. York is himself a disabled person, tooling around Vancouver in his trusty motorized chair to public hearings on behalf of his cause. And the first thing you notice when you get to know Ed, is that you hardly see his wheelchair or cane. What you see is a robust giant of a man with a hearty grin and a twinkling eye that shows his delight in community stewardship. This man has amazing resilience and stamina, and he will keep on his quest for public safety without uttering a word of complaint. This is man of great purpose, one who is a pleasure to befriend.
At a recent City Council meeting, Ed York said his farewell to every councilmember by name, announcing his retirement due to complications with his health. He promised to send out 100 letters to keep the spirit of his work in forward motion, and closed with a humble question. He wondered if he had “made a difference.” Mayor Royce Pollard announced that indeed Ed had made a difference and that Vancouver was better for his work.
Ed had been a constant friend to the Rosemere Neighborhood Association. He has attended hearings in support of our efforts, and has been to several of our community events. We are proud to serve alongside him, for we see him as a gallant knight. Yes, Ed, you have made a difference, and you will continue to make a difference. The community has been well served by you and your family and friends, and we are grateful for all that you do. Our hats off to you, our humble compatriot.
