You are currently browsing the monthly archive for January, 2008.
Trying to figure out how to make my own scribblings more universally accessible I prowl the web looking for ideas and information. I found an absolutely spot-on remark at the Headscape site, where the designers are singing my song (on-key and in better voice):
We understand that accessibility can be an overwhelming subject and that it can be hard to judge the return on investment. We encourage our clients to do what they can . . . rather than being put off by the enormity of the issue and doing nothing at all . . . . We do not condemn people for not considering accessibility but rather encourage those who wish to do something.
That’s just how I feel about Up North businesses who’d like to welcome everyone but have a hard time figuring out how to retrofit a 1950’s cabin to accommodate a wheelchair, or make a woodsy path comfortable for a person with a visual impairment. We’re pretty resourceful around here. We can figure out how to do this stuff. I’m going to help.
I had business in Bellaire this afternoon and missed my lunch, so I was irresistibly drawn to MOKA, a bright new cafe on Bridge Street. Bill and Cathy Peterson have completely redone the corner previously occupied by a pizza shop. The coffee bar offers all the usual enticements, plus biscotti from Provisions in Traverse City. Cathy is the chef, turning out breakfast quiches and mid-afternoon pastries, while Bill takes care of the front of the house. A person will soon be able to have a civilized glass of wine. This pleasantly open spot is fully accessible. On opening day, a snowy Friday afternoon, it was full of happy customers. Looks like a winner to me.
MOKA 102 North Bridge Street in Bellaire (231) 533-6262
