May 2022

Confession time. I was once a selfish and uneducated user of accessible parking spots. While I still have much to learn and apply here is what I know so far. Blue signs and paint used to be called Handicap Parking which has nothing to do with the game of golf so they became called Disabled Parking. But now the new trend is calling these blue spots Accessible Parking. People with mobility needs such as walkers, canes, and wheelchairs are what people typically think of when they see these spots. However, people with medical needs like asthma, other breathing issues, heart conditions, and temporary acute injuries also qualify for the accessible parking placards. Whether someone has permanent vehicle plates or the temporary placard, it doesn’t matter, just be kind and don’t pass judgment because we all have good and bad days. Also, different seasons and weather or parking conditions can determine one’s need for this accommodation.

Suing the Police The United States Supreme Court often votes in a predictable way these days, with 6 conservative judges on one side and 3 liberal judges on the other. However, earlier this month they broke along unusual lines in the case of Thompson v.

Mother’s Day weekend has traditionally been the time many of us put out our hummingbird feeders, and head to our favorite watering holes for opening fishing season. But this year the fishing opener is a week after Mother’s Day, and many more mothers will be surrounded by family rather than having a day of self-care or a fresh walleye dinner. It is truly spring, and I love celebrating these three wonderful traditions.

The random stranger that I would like to introduce to you did not want her picture in the paper. Annie works at a local coffee shop and last week took time to meet my little dog, Taz, outside on the patio.