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ARCHIVES
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April 2003
May 5, 2003
Vol. 2
Issue 4
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Feb/Mar 2003
March 28, 2003
Vol. 2
Issue 3
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February 7, 2003
Vol. 2
Issue 1
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Dec 2002
December 20, 2002
Vol. 1
Issue 11
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November 26, 2002
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Oct 2002
October 29, 2002
Vol. 1
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September 5, 2002
Vol. 1
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July 29, 2002
Vol. 1
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June 28, 2002
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May 2002
May 23, 2002
Vol. 1
Issue 2
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April 2002
April 17, 2002
Vol. 1
Issue 1
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Traveling & Persons with Disabilities
By Roger McCarville, Host of Disabilities Today
 MYTH: Traveling with a disability can be a frightening experience, especially if you are alone.
It’s the preconceived perceptions we have that bring us to that false conclusion. However, that conclusion and those perceptions are WRONG. I have been traveling extensively for years in my wheelchair and by every mode of transportation in this country, in Canada, and overseas. Before the enactment of ADA it was somewhat of a chore.
Since the passage of the 1990 Americans with Disabilities Act, traveling has become considerably easier and much more convenient for persons with disabilities traveling either alone or with an attendant. The new law takes into consideration every mode of transportation and accommodations: planes, trains, buses, boats, and taxis—just about anything to do with travel.
 Our show Disabilities Today is shown all over the United States, Canada, and Iceland. Because of the show we are offered opportunities to travel to many destinations showing the disabled and seniors the accessibility that exists in many different localities and countries.
We have found through email messages from our viewers, that travel is one of the most popular topics features on the show. As of yet, we do not offer travel trips for our viewers but that is certainly something we are looking into. The interest from the disabled is there; but we must help them get over their fear of the unknown.
Folks with disabilities do not realize that the travel industry is the most hospitable industry waiting to serve them. I think it is time for the two of them to get together for FUN and PROFIT.
There are a number of national organizations including Paralyzed Veterans of America, Easter Seals, and Centers for Independent Living that have their own in-house newsletters, which the travel industry can utilize to reach this very attractive but not overly-served population
And, I think that the disabled community is one answer to the questions raised by Don Holecek and Joe Fridgen in the March issue of Michigan Tourism Business. My suggestions to the industry include:
- Align your offerings with consumer demand. Let the disabled and seniors know you can meet all their access demands.
- Invest in promoting to them. They all have their own publications.
Roger McCarville is host of the TV show Disabilities Today, which is seen all over North America on local PBS stations. This half-hour show focuses on the products, programs and services available to the disabled and for seniors. For information about this program contact Mr. McCarville at 1441 Maple, Troy MI 48083 or call 248-689-2610.
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