Fishy

World-famous Comic-Con embraced downtown San Diego last weekend. It was a blast just to wander around and watch the people. See  http://www.flickr.com/groups/1449190@N24/ . Here, however, is a sight that I never hope to see. In a public parking lot, this van stradled two disabled parking spots. Somebody even put black plastic bags over the disabled parking signs. A friend saw this siht on Friday, and I found it on Saturday. The 5 Star parking lot attendant said it was a public lot, meaning anyone could park in the lot if space was available. So what's with this fishy vehicle? No disabled plates or placard. And taking two spaces. One wasn't enough?

Shame on him or her! And shame on 5 Star Parking for allowing it. "It Ain't Right!" as a local TV troubleshooter bellows. It stinks. Who's going to police this stuff?

It was 20 years ago today...

The Americans with Disabilities Act was signed into law. Since that day, the ADA has been changing the face and landscape of America. People with disabilities now can circulate more freely and participate in the life and activities of their communities. Increasingly, we see signs:

signifying access. This universal sign for access for people with disabililities is a welcome sight.

Mostly.

But, it ain't necessarily always so:

 This place is stepping up -- for foot traffic maybe. No ramp in sight.

And then another business. Same thing?:

But wait!

Oh, I see. It's clear to me now:

OK. But where's the "associate" to ask? I see the statue holding the wrenches there, but it looks as if I'm screwed if I want in here.

Up the block (all these sights are to be seen along 5th Avenue in downtown San Diego) here's one place trying to be helpful:

Looking at this, I decide I really need a drink. Hey, where's the assistance?

At least, I guess people realize they ought to do something. 

Ideally, one of these days, the need for such signage will disappear because everyplace will provide access. That day is a long, long way off. I wonder how many people with disabilities complain to these businesses and others like them. More and more people with disabilities are getting out into their communities and they have higher expectations for access.

Getting in the door is a first, er, step. Getting customers with disabilities in the door seems like a no-brainer for businesses, but so many businesses fail to grasp such a simple idea. Twenty years on, you would think business owners would get the message. 

Hello out there!

Lily pond bloom

Pedestrians Only

Waiting room chair

Lady in purple hat

Heading Out

The John Stennis leaves home port San Diego

Look, Ma -- No hands!

He stacks rocks along the walkway at Seaport Village on San Diego Bay. No glue, no magnets. It's all in the "feel," he says.

Roost

At the San Diego Unified Port District building.

... and another

Fireworks

Not from July 4th celebrations today, but still...fireworks,eh?

The Doctor will see you now...