General

General topics

Disability Inclusion Was NOT at the Promenade du Norde

General /

The Kick Off of Gymnastics City USA on Promenade du Nord –“Parisian Street Fair” – the ultimate unique shopping experience with a collection of vendors and artists curated by Michael Berthiaume left out a huge population of people with physical disabilities! There is no excuse! The ADA has been around for 34 years! Very disappointed that in the year of 2024 organizers of events like this still cannot get it right!

Disability Inclusion Was NOT at the Promenade du Norde Read More »

Disability Viewpoints – Minneapolis Community Specialist

General, Policy /

More cities need to be investing in positions like this one in Minneapolis. There is great value in focusing on a position like this since you’re much more able to meet the needs of that population. 
Host Joan Willshire talks with new City of Minneapolis Community Specialist Guthrie Bayard, who will be the city’s first specialist for issues of disability.

Disability Viewpoints – Minneapolis Community Specialist Read More »

Metropolitan Center for Independent Living Welcomes Mai Thor and Joan Willshire to its Board of Directors

About Joan, General, Healthcare, Policy, Transportation /

The Metropolitan Center for Independent Living (MCIL) is pleased to announce two new
members have been appointed to its Board of Directors. They will join current board members,
providing strategic guidance, valued perspective, and expertise in oversight of the non-profit
organization. Guided by its mission of Removing Barriers, Promoting Choices, MCIL has assisted
people with disabilities in living their most independent lives for more than 40 years. Serving the
seven-county metro area through a wide range of services, programs, resources, partnerships, and
advocacy, MCIL is among the largest Centers for Independent Living in Minnesota.

Metropolitan Center for Independent Living Welcomes Mai Thor and Joan Willshire to its Board of Directors Read More »

Elevator Out of Order

General /

The situation Senator Duckworth experienced, with a nonfunctioning elevator at the movie theater is unfortunate but common. And of course, this situation was especially disappointing because the Senator’s daughters wanted to see the movie with her. It was supposed to be a family outing that couldn’t happen because of the elevator.

Elevator Out of Order Read More »

Barbie in the Box

About Joan, General /

Barbie has had many iterations during her 65 years as America’s favorite fashion doll. And yes, one was a Barbie using a wheelchair and Barbie’s dream house even had an elevator. That’s why I was thrilled to see a photo prop Barbie box at the movie theater where we could pose inside the Barbie box. I was determined to get inside that box if it killed me! It was barely accessible, but I made it work with my scooter. I looked like the next new Barbie doll on the shelf! Scooter Barbie here I come!

Barbie in the Box Read More »

Big Snowfall of 2022

About Joan, General, Transportation /

As usual, the biggest issues I run into are curb cuts clogged with snow and access aisles of the disability parking spots not shoveled out completely.

There’s truly a lack of awareness about the access aisle in the disability parking area. Minnesota Building Code requires a 10-foot access in the disability parking area. This means the entire parking area must be cleared of snow and ice!

Big Snowfall of 2022 Read More »