Good morning, Dave.

One of my all time largest pet peeves is the mis-use of handicapped parking spaces. This past week, I was dining at the Denny's in Post Falls. As I was leaving, I noticed a man pull into a reserved space which was clearly marked "VAN." He placed his placard on his rear view mirror and got out of his car. He was not disabled/handicapped in any way. He quickly walked into the restaurant and sat down. I was going to say something to him but decided not to make a scene.

I have a some questions and wonder if you would be able to address this problem through your media.

What does it take to have a doctor issue a request for a permit/placard? Is there an expiration period on the permit/placard? Is the user of the permit/placard required to demonstrate to law enforcement personnel that he/she is handicapped?

I have been tempted to take digital pictures of the perpetrators while they can observe me and address the issue. I did that once at the Home Depot and told the driver, "You should be ashamed. This space is for people who actually need it. Not people who are too lazy to walk a little further." He wasn't too happy, but, that's too bad. Some members of our society certainly don't condone exercise.

Bill Beseler

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