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(EMAILWIRE.COM, December 13, 2012 ) San Francisco, CA -- A pair of Seattle, Wash.-area building contractors have combined their skills to build a handicap-accessible boat able to take disabled people fishing on area lakes.
Carpenter Ralph Brotherton and semi-retired plumber Mike Mayes built the boat after being inspired by an outhouse while out for a day of fishing at Island County's Lone Lake.
The brand-new outhouse meets Americans with Disability Act regulations makes it possible for wheelchair-bound people to easily use the bathroom when visiting the lake.
"Right next to the lake is a brand new ADA-accessible bathroom," Mayes said. "It dawned on me that anybody in a chair could come down here, use the bathroom and look at the lake but not go fishing on it. That's ridiculous to me."
Mayes' father and brother-in-law are both disabled veterans who love to fish but have been stuck casting their lines from fishing piers. Fishing while on the lake just seemed like a dream that would be unfulfilled.
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"There is no reason they shouldn't have access to do something like this. I looked around and couldn't find anything," said Mayes.
Brotherton and Mayes used their skills to construct an elongated pontoon boat that was connected to a retractable ramp. They rigged the boat, named "Accessible," with special rods and reels and were ready to cast off.
Military veterans Gary Pearson and Ernie Butler, friends for almost 20 years who are both paralyzed from the waist down were among the first to put "Accessible" through its paces.
"It's been a long time since I've been relaxing on a lake like this," said Pearson. "This is pretty sweet, buddy," added Butler, a smile creeping across his lips.
The vets discovers a newfound freedom being out on the water, allowing them to forget that they are stuck in a wheelchair for a few enjoyable hours. It allows them to spend their afternoon fishing just like anyone who is not wheelchair bound.
Brotherton ad Mayes have bigger plans if financing becomes available. They want to build more handicap-accessible boats so that everyone who is disabled and stick in a wheelchair can get out on the water, fish, and enjoy a nice afternoon of camaraderie.
About Don Varden Bernard Associates:
Don Varden Bernard Associates (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GtUmM1uXsSA) is a tribute video for Donald R. Bernard, the former fire chief of Fairhaven, Mont. Visit the link to learn more about Don Bernard and Don Varden.
Don Varden Bernard Associates
Benjamin Wrights
4157669098
news@postpressrelease.com 
Source: EmailWire.com
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