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Can’t argue with success

Simply the best.Of course, we in Salmon Arm might think the Roots and Blues Festival is the best festival in B.C., heck, in the country, but we might also be accused of having a local bias.

Simply the best.

Of course, we in Salmon Arm might think the Roots and Blues Festival is the best festival in B.C., heck, in the country, but we might also be accused of having a local bias.

But when you hear those exact words from a seasoned performer like Bram Morrison, of Sharon, Lois and Bram fame, everyone should recognize the level of success the Roots and Blues Festival has managed to attain.

I didn’t even have to ask the question. Bram and his compatriot Sharon both spontaneously came out with compliments for the organization, planning and execution of this festival

“We have played many, and I mean many, folk and children’s festivals and this is the best-run one we’ve ever experienced,” said Bram. And that was even before they found out about the free massages available backstage for performers.

The former trio, now a touring duo, says they have cut back on their performances in recent years, but would come back to Salmon Arm in a flash.

So, yet again, kudos to the staff, volunteers and board members of the Roots and Blues Festival. Your work has given our community a world-class reputation for a safe, fun, top-drawer musical experience that enchants an audience ranging in age from 9-months to 90.

I’m already excited for next year’s 20th anniversary festival. See you Aug. 17 to 19, 2012.

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On another note, I wanted to thank all the readers who commented on my etiquette question in last week’s column about whether disabled bathroom stalls are reserved for the disabled only. Public opinion appears to have vindicated me in my use of the disabled washroom when I am taking my three young children to answer the call of nature.

Here’s a sampling of comments:

“In my opinion, the parking stall is one thing. But the bathroom stall (which is always situated at the back of the bathroom) is fair game. For a mother with three kids, I would be glad that she uses the handicap bathroom because I know she would have better control of all her children.”

“The icons are a suggestion, not a law.”

“You go Mom. With consideration and giving priority to a disabled person, why let the porcelain go to waste... so to speak.”

“It really just boils down to respecting others and keeping in mind that there are others out there who have needs too.”

But the real kicker for me was a factor I had completely overlooked, so thank you to a number of kind readers for pointing it out to me. Often the fold-down baby changing table is placed in the handicapped stall of the washroom, which clearly indicates that disabled stalls are intended to be used by others.

So I’ll be continuing to use the disabled stall when my kids need to go, but if you have to wait for us, not to worry, we’ll be all business about it.