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No ho, ho, holding that spot, driver says

 
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Dec 18, 2007 - 04:09:43 CST
Having a holly, jolly Christmas apparently wasn't on the minds of two women whose argument over a mall parking spot ended with one of them claiming to have been struck by the other's vehicle.

Bismarck Police Officer Pat Renz said a 53-year-old Gackle woman was standing in a Kirkwood Mall parking place around 11 a.m. Saturday, saving the slot for her daughter.

A 45-year-old Bismarck woman wanted the parking spot and told her to move, Renz said.

The women's stories differ on what happened after the first encounter, Renz said.

The Gackle woman said the Bismarck woman accelerated her Honda Civic, striking the Gackle woman with her car before parking the vehicle.

The Bismarck woman said she inched her car forward in the parking spot, and the Gackle woman slipped while backing up.

Renz said there were no indications that the Gackle woman was hurt during the incident.

The case is being forwarded to the city attorney's office for possible charges, Renz said.

- Jenny Michael
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No ho, ho, holding that spot, driver says
Comments

North Carolina wrote on Dec 30, 2007 10:00 AM:

" To Amazing,
I am a born and raised true North Dakotan and i am DA_M proud of it. I learned many valuable life lessons up there but i will not back away from saying that many in ND have not got a clue what it is like anywhere but in ND. I left the State as my income doubled by doing so. I hope to work long enough to retire compfortably in ND! My comments about the frozen people are not meant as an insult, i've been there done that. My only point in the whole matter is that the people in Bismarck, Fargo, Grand Forks and other "big cities" need to realize that there is still a generation of folks in ND that have been in their small towns all their lives and going to Bismarck can be traumatic for some. Give them a break. As to ND being hotter at times than NC, i will agree with that but i will bet it wasn't 65 degrees on Christmas!! Next time try to read what is actually written instead of what you think it says! "

Amazing wrote on Dec 26, 2007 12:31 PM:

" To North Carolina: Have you even been to North Dakota? There are many times we are warmer up here than it is in North Carolina. "

BOWMAN, ND wrote on Dec 25, 2007 1:07 PM:

" NORTH CAROLINA HIT THE NAIL ON THE HEAD, ALL OF US ARE SO BONE HEADED! BIG DEAL! "

WHO CARES!!! wrote on Dec 25, 2007 1:05 PM:

" WHO CARES!!! MERRY CHRISTMAS!! "

opinionated wrote on Dec 25, 2007 12:48 PM:

" MY perspective on this is that going to the mall the weekend before Christmas is a crazy time. You all should stop complaining about not finding spots for whatever reason because theres a whole month before Christmas to buy. So what if there was a horsetrailer there. As if you havent seen one of those in a parking lot before "

Dakota wrote on Dec 25, 2007 9:15 AM:

" Wow, a comment all the way from Carolina..Must be just as boring as the frozen plains. North Dakota born and raised here. I left ND for 11 years.(worked in 5 different states.) I do know about big cities. The lady from Gackle is used to saving seats at the local bingo hall, it is a no-no, as far as I'm concerned, for parking spaces. But a person needs to walk away if at all possible. I know its tough to walk away when we're right :) "move it or lose it" "

A friend of a friend of a cop wrote on Dec 25, 2007 4:51 AM:

" Goooooolllllleeeeeeeee, North Carolina. Thanks for letting us "hicks" know what it's like to be in the big city. Although, I've seen Andy Griffith plenty of times to know what North Carolina is like. Say "hey" to Aunt Bee and Floyd the barber. "

yeah wrote on Dec 24, 2007 4:07 PM:

" i agree with north carolina, bismarck by no means is a "big" city. with the mentality of alot of the people in bismarck I honestly don't think any of them could make it in a "big" city! "

Albert Einstein wrote on Dec 24, 2007 2:42 PM:

" I was once quoted as saying, "Two things are infinite: the universe and human stupidity; and I'm not sure about the universe....." My hypothesis is so true! "

Rusty Shackelford wrote on Dec 24, 2007 11:24 AM:

" I agree with savysac. Point to ponder is funny. But what if I stood in the front of the parking spot, in front of the lines, but still between them? Then I use my cell phone to call someone and ignore anything else going on around me? Like the person infront of me at the check out, while the clerk is asking for there money. Merry Christmas everyone. "

North Carolina wrote on Dec 24, 2007 8:58 AM:

" Seriously, is this the best way for all you frozen people to get your minds stimulated? The conversations you are having on this topic are rediculous. Chances are that the woman from Gackle does not come to Bismarck very often and in her mind this is the big city. There are many who think that Bismarck is "the city" but most of you do not have a clue what the real big city is. Try to do that in a "big city" and you may get shot. Seriously, the driver of the other car should go home and learn about coutesy and the Gackle woman should go home and learn about stupidity. On the subject of the pickup and trailer parking, why on earth would anyone living in a rural community and state ever complain about farmers and ranchers parking in there city and spending their money? If complaining about this type of topic is the best thing you all have to do in Bismarck, or anywhere for that matter; you should be counting your blessings. Get real and try to grow up a bit. "

Crazy Eddie wrote on Dec 24, 2007 12:11 AM:

" If you count number of sales, you will get more from in town. If you count total amount of the sales, you will get a total different number. I have been in retail for almost 25 years, and we track sales by zipcode. The numbers do not lie. The basic necessities like bread and milk will be more localized. "

Off Topic wrote on Dec 23, 2007 6:55 PM:

" am I the only one who has noticed that most drivers, drive about 10-15 mph slower than the 40mph posted speed limit on the x-pressway. This drives me nuts Please Drive The Speed Limit People. "

Bono wrote on Dec 23, 2007 12:59 PM:

" Kum Bay Yah............ "

Parking Lot Blues wrote on Dec 23, 2007 12:38 PM:

" I am constantly amazed at the inability of many drivers to incorrectly park their vehicles in a parking lot. It is a no-brainer to park between the lines and yet some park so close to the side yellow line that they throw the whole row off. I came out to my car in Kirkwood (I was 6 months pregnant at the time!) to find some "person" had parked their truck so close to the driver's door that I had to crawl over the center console (no easy feat mind you) to get in the driver's seat. The bottom line is...remember the Golden Rule!! Manners and consideration for others are a thing of the past for many persons. "

Wandering wrote on Dec 23, 2007 11:25 AM:

" What a funny story. Although serious accidents can happen from dumb things like this. Fortunately nothing did. Although some of the blog posts have been serious, many are quite humerous, a good way to loosen the holiday tensitions. And I agree there is alot more important issues out there. But it is nice to have fun with a story also. So to all of you, have a MERRY CHRISTMAS! "

Susan wrote on Dec 22, 2007 9:59 PM:

" Crazy Eddie, think again. I've been in retail for many years, and the majority of business comes from the locals. "

WOW! wrote on Dec 22, 2007 9:28 PM:

" You know it's funny, because there are young soldiers dying in Iraq, people starving all over the world, people dying of cancer, well, basicly everything else in the world is so much more important then this ridiculous story, grow up and count your blessings, and you know what,.... maybe park a little farther away you two grown women and walk! Get a little excercise, I guarentee that both these parties are unhealthy humans, not only on the outside, but also on the inside! "Count your blessings!" "

Crazy Eddie wrote on Dec 22, 2007 12:23 PM:

" Having grown up in rural ND, I know how important it is to stop at the mall with the trailer in-tow if you happen to get to town. We may have taken up 4 spots (usually as far away from the store as necessary to be kind to others), but we probably spent twice as much as the 4 people that could have been in those spots. It was not unusual for the whole family to go on a trip to pick up cattle on the one day we could get away from the farm for the better part of the day and stop to do all of the Christmas shopping for the year in one stop. If it is in downtown LA, I don't think a horse trailer belongs. In North Dakota, it is a daily occurance. I think it is safe to say that over 50% of the business in Bismarck comes from those darn farmers and ranchers. "

to Gackle resident wrote on Dec 22, 2007 8:41 AM:

" I saw the reponses to your post coming a mile away, ha ha. Merry Christmas "

Amazing wrote on Dec 22, 2007 6:16 AM:

" To Gackle Resident: Now, that is just childish. You are blaming Kirkwood Mall for this incident for what reason? It doesn't even make sense that you are saying that. "

To Gackle Residents wrote on Dec 21, 2007 9:15 PM:

" Are you the king of Gackle to make such a statement? You evidently think you are. "

To Gackle Residents wrote on Dec 21, 2007 8:47 PM:

" Oh no bismarck will be out a whole forty bucks. LOL.. Hopefully we can still get the streeter residents. "

Douglas wrote on Dec 21, 2007 8:35 PM:

" To All Gackle Residents: What will Bismarck do without your collective $350? Shut down the mall!!! How about you stay at home and spend your money at the local chat-n-chew and Rexall drug store...and we'll take care of mall parking. Seems like everyone is happy that way. "

Gackle Residents wrote on Dec 21, 2007 6:37 PM:

" All Gackle resident will now put a ban on Kirkwood...we'll speak with our pocketbooks! "

Point to Ponder wrote on Dec 21, 2007 3:47 PM:

" If you want to save seats in church, just lift up your leg a bit and fart. That way, you can sit in your own pew. "

Who Cares wrote on Dec 21, 2007 3:26 PM:

" C'mon people. Let the trailer park where he wants and you park where an open spot is available. It is the holidays and still a free country so people can park where they want to. Of course the parking lot is crowded. It is Christmas. Nobody is complaining about how hard it is to walk through the mall with all of those extra booths set up and people that stand to visit. Give me a break ND. "

California wrote on Dec 21, 2007 2:19 PM:

" This is so “very California” that I feel right at home. Standing in a parking place sometimes works in a courteous world. It also works if fishing for a lawsuit. Other person should be smart enough not to try to intimidate a person with their vehicle. Both people should be smart enough to know this is the time of year we celebrate the birthday of Jesus. I believe its called Christ-Mass for a reason. We are celebrating the birth of the king of peace. The one who taught us to turn the other cheek and learn to get along. If you cannot fight over a parking place on Christmas when would be better. Oh, I forgot, this is commercialized Christmas with sales and deadlines on when you can get some present in the mail. If the one lady really did have a daughter nearby, and no history of questionable lawsuits, she has a good lawsuit. Especially if she has a witness or there are parking lot security cameras. I once had a friend, who once claimed another friend was really good at judo-falls and noticed the flat front of Greyhound Busses. He also noticed how often the Greyhound bus drivers would not stop at the crosswalk line going a foot or more inside the crosswalk. He made some good money jumping out in front of busses on his first two tries. Third time the bus hit him hard and broke his hip. Ah, but now everything is on computers and people need to find new gigs. Do the same gig twice and it gets suspicious. "

Point to Ponder wrote on Dec 21, 2007 1:22 PM:

" To Been there, Done that: Quickness is the key to getting your spot. You gotta run that cart back to the corral. It also helps to scowl while doing it. That way, you convey a message of impending rage. It helps deter people from thinking about taking your spot. Also, pull into the space, just shy of hitting the lingering cart, that way no one will pull in after you leave with the cart. If they have to drive around your back end, so be it. Remember to scowl at them as they drive around, look like you just killed a kitten and you're after more blood. "

sad wrote on Dec 21, 2007 1:08 PM:

" How can people find so many things to complain about? People don't like shoppers from small towns, or ranchers with trailers, or EVEN the handicapped?!? I didn't spend a single dime Christmas shopping in Bismarck this year....and after reading the posts of some of the mall employees (hopefully working on commission) I am very glad I didn't. My money doesn't need to end up in the hands of these inconsiderate individuals. I spent my money in the small town I live in and I ordered online. Bismarck you can keep your parking rules and your parking spots, and I'll keep my money out too! "

No Common Sense wrote on Dec 21, 2007 12:44 PM:

" To Zax: Very well put. From now on, these women should be referred to as Thing One & Thing Two. Since they have a very apparent lack of Common Sense..... "

Point to Ponder wrote on Dec 21, 2007 12:32 PM:

" To been there, done that: The key is to angle your car in the spot right up to the cart. Even if your jutting out a little bit, poeple can still drive around you. If they don't like it, tough. "

Been there, Done that wrote on Dec 21, 2007 12:11 PM:

" TO Point to Ponder: so, how many times have you tried that and come back from delivering the cart to its corral and found someone else's car in the spot you so helpfully cleared??? "

another perspective wrote on Dec 21, 2007 12:04 PM:

" That's PERspective, not PROspective. Get it right and I have a chance of taking you seriously. I started my Christmas shopping in August and finished the week before Thanksgiving, so thanks for that mindless assumption. I happen to work at the mall so I can see the problems the big trailers, etc. cause for the other shoppers. I would feel bad if I knew my vehicle took up so much room, so I would plan ahead a little and do my shopping on some other day besides the Saturday 9 days before Christmas. Overall, be considerate of everyone around you, no matter who you are, and park sensibly. It's not rocket science. "

BB wrote on Dec 21, 2007 10:49 AM:

" To Whatever, the cattle ranches i am around have 6 or more hired hands and no they do not go into town on sundays for feed they get a semi load on the weekday they prefer to stay at home on Sundays and would most certainly not bring there Trailer to the mall from there lips to my ears thank you very much and i hope you can enjoy your Holidays over and out. "

savysac wrote on Dec 21, 2007 10:24 AM:

" The last I knew, parking spots are reserved for vehicles, cars, trucks, motorcycles, NOT PEOPLE. A reasonable person cannot claim to save a parking spot by standing in it, the only thing that should occupy a parking spot is a vehicle. Try walking up to a drive through, they wont serve you and will politely asl you to use the facilities inside. I dont know if there is a law about who or what can legally occupy a parking spot, but it is apparent there should be. The woman in the car was in the right to take the spot, however, they way she did it could lead to civil action against her no matter how crazy the spot saver was acting, personally, I would look for another spot to avoid interaction with such a crazy person, even though I would be in the right to claim the spot because I was in my vehicle and was demonstrating my intention to park in an open spot. A person is not a placekeeper for parking spots and the woman saving the spot is lucky she did not encounter some even more crazier than her where she may have been spending Christmas in the hospital or even the funeral home. It is sad to see the lack of common sense amongst so called "decent" citizens. "

Online Editor wrote on Dec 21, 2007 10:24 AM:

" To Zax: I have a four-year-old daughter so I spend a lot of time reading Dr. Seuss - the Zax reference was terrific. "

Point to Ponder wrote on Dec 21, 2007 9:59 AM:

" You can save a spot for someone this way if you choose. If you have access to shopping carts, roll a couple of shopping carts in the space. People will drive around rather than get out of their vehicles to put shopping carts away, especially if someone else left them there. I've found primo parking spots that someone has left their shopping cart in. I seen people drive off rather than move a cart out of a spot. It's taken me a cound of seconds to return the cart and I have a great parking spot in return for my effort. Take advantage of other people's laziness. "

Zax wrote on Dec 21, 2007 9:35 AM:

" This isn't about laziness or principles, It's about what happens when two control-freaks meet. In the end. . . then what?? "Well... Of course the world didn't stand still. The world grew. In a couple of years, the new highway came through And they built it right over those two stubborn Zax And left them there, standing un-budged in their tracks." "

Response to RS wrote on Dec 21, 2007 9:02 AM:

" Exactly! Where I buy my beef has no more relevance here than where I buy anything else. "

A Better Solution wrote on Dec 21, 2007 8:26 AM:

" Instead of standing in the middle of a parking spot to try and save it, just writed 'Saved for __________' on a piece of paper and put it on a little stick in the spot you want to save. That way all the other drivers will see the note and find a different spot to park in. Anyone who accidentally pulls into the spot and knocks over the little sign, upon realizing their error, has to immediately back out and straighten up the sign. Anyone who parks in a marked spot intentionally will get paged to the center of the mall and has to make an apology in front of all the other shoppers. That should solve these kinds of problems ; ) "

Amazing wrote on Dec 21, 2007 7:50 AM:

" To: Really? really? REALLY? Please do not lump all of us who like to shop in with this woman who was "saving the parking spot." I enjoy shopping any time of the year, but expect never to get a close spot, especially at Christmas time. So, please do not call all of us idiots just because we shop at Christmas time. Bah Humbug to you!!!! "

Really? really? REALLY? wrote on Dec 21, 2007 2:06 AM:

" I think we're missing the point: People that shop during Christmas are idiots. First off, if you're going to the mall in december, EXPECT TO WALK. Parking spots are not land for you to claim like you're an explorer finding this land for the first time! So if you are lucky enough to find a spot in the first 15 rows BE HAPPY!! Finding a good spot is like finding $20 bucks in the dryer, just be happy, but if you don't, DON'T ACT SUPRISED!!! Thanks, now i feel better. "

Simply Amazed wrote on Dec 21, 2007 1:44 AM:

" Why is it every time I do this, save a parking spot, that is, when I get back with the car, the spot is gone. " So those of you who think it's NOT okay to save a parking spot - let's not ever see you saving a seat for someone. SAME difference. When you are not able to find ONE parking spot -sometimes you have to save it until your vehicle can get there. I've done it before and I'd do it again. " "

to please stop wrote on Dec 21, 2007 12:31 AM:

" I wrote to Mandan and did you read her post? One sentence she was in a wheel chair and the next she didn't look handicapped. It didn't make sense! If you are so handicapped that you need a close parking spot, then you shouldn't be at the mall. It makes no sense! Because I only tell what is the truth, I'm silly and hurtful? I'll have you know Please Stop that the lady I speak of is my own grandmother and the other person is also a family member that could get a handicap card because of a bad shoulder and neither have one! So don't preach to me! "

Amazing wrote on Dec 20, 2007 4:42 PM:

" There is a big difference between saving a seat and saving a parking spot. First of all, there is probably not a person in this world that has not saved a seat for someone. However, saving a parking spot? Not only is it dangerous, but it is stupid. I am sure this lady looked quite humorous standing in this parking spot saving it. Can't say I would ever do it. I still wonder who this lady is (the one saving the spot). It could be very interesting. "

No Common Sense wrote on Dec 20, 2007 3:55 PM:

" Bono wrote on Dec 20, 2007 3:14 PM: I've done it before and I'd do it again. Case in point: No Common Sense. "

Bono wrote on Dec 20, 2007 3:14 PM:

" So those of you who think it's NOT okay to save a parking spot - let's not ever see you saving a seat for someone. SAME difference. When you are not able to find ONE parking spot -sometimes you have to save it until your vehicle can get there. I've done it before and I'd do it again. "

To another prospective: wrote on Dec 20, 2007 3:07 PM:

" Why dont you go shopping and plan ahead in october and then you wouldnt have to worry about it either. Things change over a couple of months. It is a busy time of year at the mall and everyone has the same right to be there. The parking lot is free parking to everyone and anyone. Did either lady ask the other to move politely or did they approach the problem with a crappy attitude. It is Christmas everyone. TREAT OTHERS THE WAY THAT YOU WOULD WANT TO BE TREATED AND BE KIND!!!!! "

No Common Sense wrote on Dec 20, 2007 2:46 PM:

" Still laughing wrote on Dec 20, 2007 2:14 PM: " I am pretty sure the lady from Gackle was just doing what she had learned from parking in Jamestown Mall parking lot. It is a cultural thing. " I beg to differ; It's purely a stupidity thing. "

Still laughing wrote on Dec 20, 2007 2:14 PM:

" I am pretty sure the lady from Gackle was just doing what she had learned from parking in Jamestown Mall parking lot. It is a cultural thing. "

Funny wrote on Dec 20, 2007 1:28 PM:

" If you've ever been to a popular Civic Center event, you've probably noticed that people are much less 'concerned' about how close they are to the Civic Center when parking. The mall overflow parking seems to fill up first, no problem walking two blocks to keep from paying $2 bucks to park! Maybe the mall should consider a new revenue stream and place parking meters in the 'premier' parking spots, that would kill two birds with one stone. Parking fights would stop and they could make a little money along the way. "

please stop wrote on Dec 20, 2007 1:17 PM:

" whoever wrote "to mandan" should be ashamed of themselves. online editor, i think you should put a stop to this. people are being incredibly silly and hurtful. "

No Common Sense wrote on Dec 20, 2007 1:14 PM:

" These two women need to at least get a hobby, if not a life. Maybe if they skipped a few meals and got off their rotund rears, they may understand the benefits of exercise and common sense to other human beings. Unbelieveable....... "

to Mandan wrote on Dec 20, 2007 12:18 PM:

" Does this make any sense? SOME people need a handicapped card to hang from their car mirror because they CAN't walk long distances and need to have a close parking spot at the mall. BUT, they can walk around Target or the mall or Wal-Mart just fine! Do you know how easy it is to get a handicapped sticker? There is somebody in his 30's that can get one because he has a bad shoulder. I know an 88 year old lady that had both hips replaced within a 7 year period and REFUSES to use a handicapped card! Even when she was struggling to walk because her hip hurt so bad (which was bone on bone), she still didn't get one. So your condition has you in a wheel chair and you may possibly walk again and it causes fatigue, but you can't walk far distances. So you can walk or you can't walk? You are in a wheelchair, but when you are walking you don't look handicapped. So you can go from a wheelchair to walking and not look like you have a problem walking?! Sounds fishy! Do you take your wheelchair to the Dr. and then ditch it when you go to the mall, just like on the hidden cameras that catch people with fake injuries? Just like lady that "got hurt at work" and couldn't work, but could go out to the bars and play darts or drive to Vegas! "

mandan wrote on Dec 20, 2007 11:13 AM:

" this is one of the most ridiculous stories I have read and some of the comments here are completely ignorant. Both these women were ignorant and both deserve to be charged. Putting their names in the paper is a great idea to show the people they know how ignorant they are. Also the comments about trucks and trailers get real people sometimes they are moving cattle from one place to another and they stop to accomplish other errands to save on fuel and time. So what if they took up a few spaces they have as much right to park closer as you all do they just don't do it as often. Maybe he was doing some Christmas shopping that took awhile, duh! And also to the person who made a comment about people that have handicap placards that supposedly do not need them what a bunch of garbage, you have no idea what someone's medical problem is and since you must have a doctor sign papers to your disability to get one there is always a reason. My mother was going through congestive heart failure and could not walk far distances but did not look handicapped. I am in a wheelchair but even when I am able to walk possibly again my condition causes horrible fatigue and I cannot walk far distances then either but I do not (when not needing the chair) look handicapped but I am so before you accuse, think about all those invisible diseases that you cannot see but are very mch a difficult thing for people to deal with and get over yourselves. Some Christmas spirit around here. "

another perspective wrote on Dec 20, 2007 11:05 AM:

" You know what happens when the big trailers, SUVs, etc. force other shoppers to park in the employee sections? Those sections get full and the actual employees are forced to park across the street at the hotel and walk across a busy street during Christmas traffic, which as we can see is not very kind! If the only way this trailer guy could shop at the mall is by taking his huge trailer with him, why did he have to wait until only a week before Christmas?? Why not plan ahead a little? His taking up half a dozen spots would not be quite so problematic in October.... "

to simply amazed wrote on Dec 20, 2007 9:28 AM:

" You obviously are not getting the point! People that need more than one spot should park on the out skirts of the parking lot. Nobody said they should take their trailer home and drive back to Bismarck. "

RS wrote on Dec 20, 2007 9:12 AM:

" What the heck why does it matter where i get my Beef from, that guy with the Truck and Trailer was not there buying stuff for his Cattle give me a break, it would be a different thing if he was hogging spots at Kist Livestock but at Target come on since when did Kirkwood mall start stocking up on products for Cattle. "

Response to Whatever wrote on Dec 20, 2007 8:24 AM:

" I agree. The U.S. has the highest obesity rate, and ND is the fattest state in the nation. No wonder. "

Response to Simply Amazed wrote on Dec 20, 2007 8:22 AM:

" I think the point was that when they park these big trailers, to park them out further, rather than take up several spots. It's just as rude to take up multiple spots, as are the other behaviors you describe (which I've also seen, many times). "

Whatever wrote on Dec 20, 2007 7:59 AM:

" If someone has nothing better to do with their life than stand in the middle of a parking space in winter so they don't have to walk an extra 20 feet, they can have the parking spot and I hope it makes their day. My two parking peeves are the people who park their vehicles across two spaces so that no one gives them a door ding (I'm glad I have more important things going on in my life than to worry so much about the inevitable door ding) and those who park right across the entry door so that everyone else has to walk through their exhaust to get in and out of the store. It's obvious at a glance that walking a few extra steps isn't going to do any harm to lots of people! "

Socks wrote on Dec 20, 2007 7:05 AM:

" Think these woman need to start shopping online. "

Simply Amazed wrote on Dec 20, 2007 5:09 AM:

" The people that are complained about the pickup with the trailer, I hope that you do not eat, If you know it or not that is where meat comes from, cattle. With the price of gas and the little return that the farmer receives, do you honestly expect him to take care of his animal business, go home, drop off the livestock and trailer and then come back to town to do his shopping? Get real. As far as the person standing in the parking spot, I would have, as someone else suggested park and wait her out. Not that the parking spot is that valuable, but to prove a point that it is very rude and crude to think that they are better than someone else to have reserved parking. I have run into the same thing at grocery stores where someone is standing in line and you are behind them and then someone comes up with a huge cart full and tries to get in with the person standing there. You tell them where to get off. There are some very rude people in this world and unless they are put in their place occasionally, they will continue to abuse other people with their own feeling of importance. "

kenny wrote on Dec 19, 2007 10:06 PM:

" just do what I do avoid the mall completely. When I do go to the mall I immediatly get mad just observing people driving. Go online it's safer, ho ha ho. "

To Mike wrote on Dec 19, 2007 9:53 PM:

" Better question, Where is your head? Ever hear that the pedestrian has the right of way? "

to the 45 yr old woman wrote on Dec 19, 2007 6:43 PM:

" respect your elders "

Bono wrote on Dec 19, 2007 6:25 PM:

" Thanks for the great laugh! I love those rules. I am very guilty of number 7 along with some of the others......ahem. "

Mike wrote on Dec 19, 2007 5:55 PM:

" Where the heck is Gackle? If this lady is set on saving a space and is dumb enough to stand there saving it, just let her have it. "

To Bono wrote on Dec 19, 2007 5:04 PM:

" Here is the link to the Rules: http://www.paralumun.com/jokespark.htm "

To Roy Rogers wrote on Dec 19, 2007 4:28 PM:

" Hee-Hee... you made me laugh! Glad to see some people have a sense of humor still. BTW the trailer guy was definitely NOT in a hurry... when I came out after a couple hours the trailer was STILL not MOOOOved! At least I was parked far away enough in ONE spot to not be in anyone's way. Sorry, but I still believe it was rude! "

Roy Rogers wrote on Dec 19, 2007 3:50 PM:

" I don't know, c.c. The last time my cow and I got on the bus, she kept sounding her horn. This irritated the driver and we had to get out and hoof it. "

Bono wrote on Dec 19, 2007 3:42 PM:

" Does anyone have a copy of those rules??? haha. Personally I love to see horse trailers in the mall parking lots - tells me the ranchers/farmers are shopping in town. Park anywhere you want! We love you! "

Razzer wrote on Dec 19, 2007 3:35 PM:

" They should both be charged. the one holding the spot with disorderly conduct and the vehicle operator with reckless endagerment. "

Pasionatepear wrote on Dec 19, 2007 3:08 PM:

" This is a little off topic, but how do you all feel about people with new cars, or in their minds, special cars, or SUVs that take up 2 spots so no one can park near them? I hate car dings, but that action is ridiculous and arrogant. "

cc wrote on Dec 19, 2007 1:20 PM:

" Hey People here's a brilliant idea if you dont want to worry about a parking spot why dont you ride the bus or take a cab. I bet they will drop you off right at the door. "

christmas parking wrote on Dec 19, 2007 11:41 AM:

" Yes people who park on the line or crooked mess up everything but hey it is just a parking spot. If people park crappy I usually just go way to the end to just get out of the mess. There is so much going on in this world that I refuse to get upset over my parking space. I have had people try to beat me to a parking spot and I just let them go and wave and smile. Yeah I could get really upset but I just remember it is just a parking spot, for people to act this crazy they must have something really crazy going on in their lives. "

Point to Ponder wrote on Dec 19, 2007 11:03 AM:

" I wonder if there will be fights over parking spots when the new Hooters opens up? "

Roy Rogers wrote on Dec 19, 2007 9:23 AM:

" As a matter of fact, that was my big diesel and horse trailer ya'll are taliking about. The truth is that, yes, I did take my livestock Christmas shopping. Is that so wrong? You know how hard it is to buy just the right size for someone when thay are not along. Imagine shopping for a cow! Please don't criticize me until you've walked a mile in my pasture. "

Mozzer wrote on Dec 19, 2007 9:22 AM:

" Wake up people, Bismarck is not a big city. LA is a big city. Bismarck is only a RUDE city. "

Mary Sue wrote on Dec 19, 2007 9:19 AM:

" I normally try to park out a little, because it's easier to get out of the lot, and because I don't mind a little exercise. I don't care why people are in town, or when they come to town. This is about common courtesy. The fact that someone might be here from out of town gives them no more right to park irresponsibly than those who live here - this isn't about a red carpet event. Furthermore, the ones who live here are the ones who spend money here on a regular basis. "

Whatever wrote on Dec 19, 2007 8:10 AM:

" To BB: If you have been around a big cattle ranch, you would know that ranchers dont take sunday off. I am a rancher and I do most of my work on the weekends because some of us have other jobs during the week also. They move cattle to different pastures and around to other places. You are just mad because you probably had to walk a little ways. FIRST COME FIRST SERVE. You could park over at the TJ Max building. Maybe when the trailer got there, the mall wasnt as busy. I understand that it is courtesy to park a large vehicle away but if they were in a hurry and the parking space was available, take it. "

Everyone needs to step up wrote on Dec 19, 2007 7:59 AM:

" I purposely search for parking at the end of parking lots since I don't like having my doors dinged. I have noticed that a great many large vehicles, pickups, livestock trailers. campers etc also park there. Thank you to those that do. I have also noticed however that it only takes one inconsiderate person parking crooked to mess up a whole row or two of parking. If everyone paid a bit more attention to how they are parking this would not be a problem even on the busiest days. Using a bit of patience also helps. Drive around a couple times- guess what - something usually opens!!!!! "

opinion is me wrote on Dec 19, 2007 7:58 AM:

" There was a meeting and sale in town this weekend that brought people to town from all over the state. That is why a stock trailer was in town, but with your attitudes I have no idea why anyone would want to leave money in your miserable and ungrateful city. You obviousely hate everyone and everything. So glad that your lives are going so well that you have time to make a big deal out of virtually nothing. "

to bono wrote on Dec 18, 2007 9:22 PM:

" That would be in violation of "Rule #2 Always park on the lines, taking up as many spots as possible. Diagonal parking is preferred." I have not seen were it is allowed to reserve a parking spot in the rules.LOL "

REX wrote on Dec 18, 2007 8:54 PM:

" The big city finally gets to Bismarck. "

In defense~! wrote on Dec 18, 2007 8:20 PM:

" In defense of the "handicap" parking permits. For one, my grandma holds one of these permits. She has alot of breathing and physical problems, on days she is feeling alright she is the first one to park at the end of the lot and walk because she thinks she needs the air and exercise-despite her problems- maybe people should learn from this 85 year old lady and walk their lazy butts to the door! God knows that we all need the exercise! "

WOW! wrote on Dec 18, 2007 7:55 PM:

" Oh wow. Come on now ladies! What the heck, do you steal chairs from people in restaurants who say they are reserved too? Its just a parking spot, park a little further down, and get some exercise! "

BB wrote on Dec 18, 2007 7:04 PM:

" To Whatever, I have been around cattle probably one of the biggest cattle ranches in the Oliver and Morton County areas, but i have never seen them coming into to town with stocktrailers on a Sunday, the person who did that on Sunday was a inconsiderate person to take up that many spots. "

BB wrote on Dec 18, 2007 6:59 PM:

" To Whatever Why do you have to bring your livestock trailer in to town on a Sunday afternoon, give me a break unless you are a filthy rich and had planned on filling up your trailer full of gifts for the Homeless, which is what i was doing trying to buy some gifts for at least one little girl who is not as fortunate, you could have parked by the old TJ Maxx building and maybe got your exercise too, you were totally inconsiderate to other people or maybe Target carries gifts for livestock too. "

Average Joe wrote on Dec 18, 2007 6:35 PM:

" To Reader, the city can't charge them with stupidy as there would never be enough jail space. What would I have done, well I guess I would have just blocked the spot from the daughter the Gackle Mom would have gotten cold and had to leave some time. Problem solved. Not to get off on a tangent but this type of behavior ranks right up there with the people who butt in line the day after THanksgiving in front of people who have been up for hours and have stood in line and acted like adults. But again, why should anyone be civil to another, after all, everyone knows the world evolves around the other individual, if you don't believe me just ask them. "

My 002 Cents wrote on Dec 18, 2007 5:53 PM:

" People want to park as close to the store as possible, and then complain why they are getting fatter and fatter. Duh! "

Bono wrote on Dec 18, 2007 5:16 PM:

" Yes - that is sad but true. All I ask is when there are 6 spots available for tons of people - DON'T take up 2-3 spots by parking in the middle of the lane. Park as close to the next car as you can so others can fit in. "

to bono wrote on Dec 18, 2007 4:59 PM:

" I agree with you, but you will still have people abusing courteous parking as well. "

same people wrote on Dec 18, 2007 4:48 PM:

" The two women are probally the same ones that have to park in the fire lanes at Dans or Central Market. I questioned someone about parking there, and she told me that she will be in and then right out. I then wondered are you that lazy or is your time THAT VALUABLE you can't spare 1-2 minutes to walk, from the looks of things ------laziness "

Bono wrote on Dec 18, 2007 4:37 PM:

" Courteous parking is needed in this town. People will pull up in front of the BUSY post office and hog 2 or more spots. USE YOUR HEADS people. Take up one spot and don't be an idiot. We all want to get in and out. "

same people wrote on Dec 18, 2007 4:22 PM:

" The two women are probally the same ones that have to park in the fire lanes at Dans or Central Market. I questioned someone once that parked there, and she told me that she will be right in and then right out. I then wondered are you that lazy or is your time THAT VALUABLE you can't spare 1-2 minutes to walk, from the looks of her------laziness "

Mary Sue wrote on Dec 18, 2007 4:12 PM:

" Regardless of when you get to a parking lot, if your vehicle is going to take up more than one spot, then park it out further. Your reason for being there has nothing to do with common courtesy. The spots are designed for one vehicle/one spot. "

Whatever wrote on Dec 18, 2007 3:49 PM:

" It is time right now that people are busy selling and buying cattle which feed you. Most people are from out of town and do there business when they come to town. If we can get two things done at once why not? It is not like we are loading up our cattle to take them to the mall. Only the ignorance of someone that has never been around cattle. Maybe if the parking spots are taken, you should park where store employees are forced to park. Just like in this story, it is first come first serve. "

MOOOVE wrote on Dec 18, 2007 3:48 PM:

" In defense of the horse trailer guy, sometimes people form out of town come to Bismarck and try to get multiple things done which may include buying ar selling livestock AND a trip to the mall for a few things. Can't really leave your trailer and cow parked elsewhere, has to stay hitched to your pickup. Also, as far as some handicapped parkers not looking handicapped, my mother has one lung and looks perfectly fine, but having to walk form the farthest parking space in the cold and then through a store would totally wear her out SO, not all handicaps LOOK it, some do abuse it, but not all. Happy Holidays!!!!!! "

To Whatever wrote on Dec 18, 2007 3:33 PM:

" Geez can't you do your shopping without your livestock? If not, there are plenty of places you can park that are out of the way. Get it? On the edges of the parking where the employees are forced to park? I know this getting off the track of the original story, but this is almost worse than the 2 women fighting over a spot. There's nothing at Target for your cows or your horses. Leave them at home. I'm sure they'd rather not go to the mall either. "

Whatever wrote on Dec 18, 2007 3:11 PM:

" to both bb's: I drive a pickup and trailer and there isnt a way to only take up one place with it. If I need to go in a place to get something, I take up a few parking places as long as I am out of the way of traffic. You are both as lazy as the two woman in this story. It is first come first serve. I would like to see your options if you were in a pickup with a trailer. Maybe the mall should designate a parking spot if people are going to complain. This is childish. "

Bono wrote on Dec 18, 2007 3:06 PM:

" Can't we all just get along? "

Bismack person wrote on Dec 18, 2007 2:30 PM:

" To the gackle women ...those are parking spots for cars not for people..move it . "

Me Too wrote on Dec 18, 2007 2:27 PM:

" I meant "I asked her" "

Bono wrote on Dec 18, 2007 2:24 PM:

" I would have jumped on her hood and gone for a ride. And a merry christmas to all! "

Me Too wrote on Dec 18, 2007 2:21 PM:

" I also saw that big diesel and horse trailer taking up valuable parking lot real estate. There was one cow in the trailer. So I asked him. He said he wouldn't moooooove. "

To BB wrote on Dec 18, 2007 1:32 PM:

" I also saw that stupid horse trailer Sunday- how inconsiderate! I didn't even bother to look for a close spot that day, it was nice enough to walk so I took the nearest, far away spot, walked all of the 1/2 block distance to Target... and survived. Probably would have done both ladies a bit of good to park farther away and get some exercise. "

Cali to "point to ponder" wrote on Dec 18, 2007 1:09 PM:

" Wow thanks for the good laugh! I needed it after reading about the ridiculous actions of these women! "

BB wrote on Dec 18, 2007 12:57 PM:

" I was at the Kirkwood parking lot on Sunday and some idiot parked his big ol diesel truck and horse trailer taking up at least 8-10 parking spots it is people like that who have so little disregard for other people, i looked for a spot for 5min and found one without any violence and the walk did me good those 2 ladies if you can call them that should be ashamed of themselves for pure stupidity. "

Reader wrote on Dec 18, 2007 12:19 PM:

" Maybe it would be best to publish both names and hope that shame would make them use better judgement next time. "

Incredulous wrote on Dec 18, 2007 11:50 AM:

" The Gackle woman was clearly in the wrong and being greedy and cheating. The Bismarck woman should have simply risen above all this Gackle immaturity and found another spot (after letting Gackle know what she thought of her tactics of course). You both need to be visited by a few ghosts in the night. If Gackle is going to challenge another woman to a duel like this then she deserves to be knocked down. Don't play the game if you can't stand to lose. And don't bring this to the courts. We have enough real crime without this pettiness. "

to failing system from cd wrote on Dec 18, 2007 11:30 AM:

" You don't think anything will be done? In my case I received "care required" for supposedly running over the lady's foot. Charges were dismissed as I was found not guilty. But her husband sued a year later for "loss of services". She got $5000 from my insurance company as a nuisance case and her attorney wrote mine and stated that he was glad we settled as the lady and her husband were unemployed. Suppose this was a "scam". It isn't any wonder that insurance rates are as high as they are with "crazy" people defrauding the system. This lady was not touched by me! "

failing system wrote on Dec 18, 2007 10:52 AM:

" Go ahead and forward this to the States Attorney, it is a joke. I highly doubt that any charges are going to be brought against anyone. Actually in this case they may actually bring charges against someone because it is a stupid case. Other more extreme violent cases get absolutely no charges when forwarded on to the "States Attorney". "

Mary Sue wrote on Dec 18, 2007 10:47 AM:

" This is crazy - how lazy can people be? Why would you stand in a parking spot to save it? To "Get Real," if her daughter was right there, she'd already be in the spot, wouldn't she? Also, it's called a "parking" spot, not a "standing" spot. "

Cindyloo wrote on Dec 18, 2007 10:40 AM:

" Tis the season to get even more stupid. And we as a society are getting lazier. God forbid we have to walk a few more steps. I always take a parking spot way out; I can find my car and the walk is good. Try working retail and dealing with some cranky people. "

Point to Ponder wrote on Dec 18, 2007 10:37 AM:

" They should both be sent "A Letter from Hell!" "

Huh? wrote on Dec 18, 2007 10:23 AM:

" This doesn't make a whole lot of sense. One writer assumed that the Gackle woman MUST have been close if she was saving her daughter a spot, but that doesn't ring true to me. IF she was that close, how did she get to that spot to save it for her? Did she jump out of the car and run through the cars to save that spot? If she did, that leaves me to assume that the Gackle woman knew darn well her daughter wasn't next in line for that spot, but another car was, so she tried to bypass them by sneaking out of the car to run and get it. I guess it was either that, or she knew her daughter was on her way down to the mall and just stood out in the parking lot until she got there. Either way, are these people flipping crazy?!?!?!? My guess is that the Gackle woman then slipped and fell. However, How close did the Bismarck woman think she should inch toward her? After all, when you're dealing with a several thousand pound vehicle, versus a hundred-some pound woman, use a little caution! UNBELIEVABLE STUPIDITY on BOTH parts! "

Amazing wrote on Dec 18, 2007 10:11 AM:

" To Get Real: Attempted murder? Really now! In the case of my mother, this lady was saving a spot for her husband, who was not even in the same row as the parking spot was. The husband came along after my mother had parked and yelled profanities at his wife about not saving the spot. Stupidity at its best (or worst)!!!! Sounds like you might have an interest in this case, perhaps a friend or relative of the lady standing in a parking spot. "

Parking lots wrote on Dec 18, 2007 10:08 AM:

" I for one know that the parking lots were absolutely ridiculous on Saturday..People need to learn how to park!! Parking 3 deep is wrong!! There could have been way more incidents---get a grip people! Follow the yellow lines and everyone will be happy! "

lets laugh wrote on Dec 18, 2007 10:07 AM:

" I think that the names of these people should be released so we can all laugh in their faces and tell them shame on them and MERRY CHRISTMAS!! Isn't the holiday in which I'm sure they were shopping for the most important thing? Shouldn't they sit back and realize that the season is all about PEACE and LOVE not GREED!! Come on people. I think the names should be out there so we all can see what kind of people they both are. GREEDY!! "

Santa wrote on Dec 18, 2007 9:49 AM:

" To Get Real: You, too, should get real lumps of coal as well. Attempted murder, law suits, indeed!! It's Christmas, fer Crissakes! Lighten up or I'll have my reindeer do something unpleasant on your roof. "

Santa wrote on Dec 18, 2007 9:45 AM:

" Ahh Christmas! Nothing warms the cockles of the heart quite like the story of a parking lot rumble ending with a Honda to the thigh. Lumps of Coal all around, I say! "

Get real wrote on Dec 18, 2007 9:41 AM:

" The woman in the car should be charged with attempted murder. Go find another spot and don't be such a witch. If she is not seriously charged I do hope that they sue her. That at least will teach her to not be so lazy. If the other woman was saving the spot obviously her daughter was right there with her car as well. "

To: CD from Smert wrote on Dec 18, 2007 9:40 AM:

" Amazing, you got sued for $5,000 but yet I almost get killed by hitting a 1,600-2,000 pound cow head-on and I can't pursue that farmer for negligence. Unbelievable; everyone will get their just rewards later in life. It's amazing how things tend to fall back on dis-honest people. "

Jingles wrote on Dec 18, 2007 9:22 AM:

" In defense of the Bismarck woman, I believe it was a matter of principal and not so much having to walk. If you were looking to park and somebody stood in the spot saying they were saving it; wouldn't it be more a matter of principal than the need to walk several more car spots? As one other blogger said, there is no "saving" in parking spots. If you are going to stand in areas where cars drive, you need to be aware that you may get hit. No different than standing in the street or a driveway. If we allow the Gackle woman to get away with this act, what's next? Saving parking spots on the streets during Bismarck's festivals and other functions that draw large crowds? Or how about saving spots during a Civic Center event? Saving spots in Mandan during the parade. Or saving spots for a busy eating establishment. The list could go on, but the principal is parking spots are for the next car that comes along, not the next person that walks up. "

MOVE wrote on Dec 18, 2007 8:59 AM:

" Seriously it is just a parking spot either one of the ladies could of big the bigger person and found a different one. Grown people fighting over a parking spots, I hope there was no young kids around learning from there elder peers. Tis the Season for joy happiness and remember why we celebrate christmas, Jesus! "

Front Row Seat wrote on Dec 18, 2007 8:50 AM:

" To SE Forty: Be real. It doesn't matter if you are from a "big" city (Bismarck is not that metropolitan) or from a small town or from a rural area... common sense would dictate getting out of the way of a moving car. I hope the Bismarck woman knows the error of her way - forceably moving someone is dangerous and unnecessary. I doubt moving to another space for either woman would have created any serious hardship - look what negativity they have brought on themselves and the Spirit of the Season just for being stubborn. "

cd wrote on Dec 18, 2007 8:39 AM:

" Read with interest this case. It is so-o-o similiar to a case that I was involved in a few years ago - hope it isn't the same lady striking again - if it is it is fraud again! The gal that I was involved with accused me of running over her foot in a parking lot at Target - I didn't come close to her and was found not guilty in court BUT a year later she sued me and she got $5000 because it was a nuisance case and it would have cost more to go to court for a jury trial. Don't know how people can live with themselves defrauding people like that but guess they have no conscience. "

Rusty Shackelford wrote on Dec 18, 2007 8:36 AM:

" This time of year sure brings out the Christmas spirit. Afteral tis the season. "

RULazy wrote on Dec 18, 2007 8:28 AM:

" It sounds to me that this spot must have been close to an entrance otherwise this wouldn't have happened. I can't imagine all the other parking spaces were taken for the entire mall. Sure it's cold out...but not that cold. It sounds like the walk from a farther away spot would have done both parties good. "

BB wrote on Dec 18, 2007 8:27 AM:

" Please what a stupid thing to do for both women, come on its christmas time. "

Pete wrote on Dec 18, 2007 8:06 AM:

" People!! What is the matter with these people? "

Grow Up wrote on Dec 18, 2007 7:55 AM:

" These two women both need to grow up. For pete's sake - it was only a parking space. I feel that they are both at fault. Whether it is legal for the one to stand in a spot and save it for her daughter that was coming down the row or not, does not mean that the other woman has the right to take that spot.. I am sure that there were plenty of other spots available. It is just that one of them did not want to walk that distance. Shame on you. Next time park at the end of the row and WALK!!!!... "

Reader wrote on Dec 18, 2007 7:48 AM:

" Perhaps the city can charge them both with stupidity, then they can save us a trial and admit their guilt! "

Just Me wrote on Dec 18, 2007 7:34 AM:

" How sad, what's next gunplay - just to save yourself a few extra steps. My guess is that both parties involved could use the walk from the far end of the lot. Happy Holidays "

Socks wrote on Dec 18, 2007 7:17 AM:

" What were they thinking? No more Egg Nog for either of them. "

try walking a little wrote on Dec 18, 2007 7:06 AM:

" how pathetically lazy must both parties in this incident be? although it's alot funnier at the YMCA when people fight for the closest parking spot. folks on their way to a work-out have to park as close to the Y as possible. Also have you noticed how few people with handicapped stickers are actually handicapped? no wonder we are a nation of fat butts. "

Amazing wrote on Dec 18, 2007 6:28 AM:

" I find this kind of humorous in that a few years ago, my mother encountered a lady who was "saving a spot" and when my mom ended up taking the spot, this woman accused her of running over her foot (which she did not do). People, this is not the playground where you can save the swing, this is a parking lot, where parking spots are first come, first served. Get real!!! "

SE Forty wrote on Dec 18, 2007 6:21 AM:

" The Gackle woman should have moved! Welcome to the big city! "

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