Know Before You Go
New Accessible Trails at Crotched Mountain
On June 25, 2011 the Crotched Mountain Foundation marked the completion of their Outdoor Recreation Master Plan, with the grand opening of two new wheelchair-accessible trails on their main campus in Greenfield, New Hampshire. Located just 75 miles from Boston, these trails are open to the public and present an excellent opportunity for wheelchair-users and slow walkers to get out and enjoy Mother Nature.
Don't Miss Yosemite Falls This Summer
There's a reason Yosemite Falls is the most visited landmark in Yosemite Valley. Quite frankly, it's a spectacular sight. That's especially true this year, when the winter snowpack topped out at 165 percent of average. After all, when all that snow melted, the water had to go somewhere. And although Yosemite National Park is most certainly worthy of a visit any time of year, the massive 2011 runoff makes Yosemite Falls a must-see this summer.
Wildcat Bluff Nature Center Update
Unfortunately the Wildcat Bluff Nature Center is the latest victim of these difficult financial times. Although it was featured in our Discovering Amarillo article in the Summer 2011 issue of Emerging Horizons; we subsequently discovered that because of funding issues the center is now closed. It's uncertain at this time if this is a temporary or permanent situation.
DOT Regs Changing on Lithium Ion Powered Mobility Devices
Prior to Jan. 1, 2010 US airlines were prohibited from transporting mobility devices powered by lithium ion batteries. But all that changed on Jan. 19, 2011, when updates to 49 CFR 175.10(a)(17) were published in the Federal Register. Those regulations deal with the transport of hazardous materials, and the updated version includes an exception for lithium ion powered mobility aids. So in simple language, the airlines are no longer prohibited from accepting lithium ion powered mobility devices. But don't rush to the airport with your TravelScoot or Luggie quite yet. Suffice it to say we are in a transitional time, so here's what you need to know if you plan on flying with a lithium ion battery-powered mobility device in the next 12 months.
Know the Law: Accommodating Service and Emotional Support Animals
Service animals come in all shapes and sizes; from dogs and cats, to monkeys, miniature horses, and even more exotic species. Although these non-traditional service animals are somewhat controversial; some are guaranteed accommodations under the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA), while others are prohibited from flying. Here’s the scoop on what animals make the cut and what documentation is required.
