Bismarck Tribune - North Dakota News - Can no longer push your snow

Can no longer push your snow

Dec 30, 2008 - 09:15:49 CST

By DOUG HINKEL
Mandan

Recently, while cleaning snow from my neighbor's driveway, I was surprised to see a Mandan police officer pull up and beckon me over to his vehicle. I shut my four-wheeler off and went to visit with him. Apparently, when I drove around my block cleaning the sidewalks in front of everyone's home, my blade left a small ridge of snow on people's driveways that had already cleaned their property.

I guess my malicious act was enough to cause someone to phone in a complaint. The officer performing his duty informed me I was to no longer clean other people's sidewalks. I'm also guilty of occasionally mowing a neighbor's lawn in the summer, but I did not admit to that. I might get grass clippings on someone's driveway, and we all know what a commotion that could cause.

I'm blessed to live in a peaceful neighborhood where many of the residents are elderly and still have values that include appreciation. With the many thank you cards and friendly waves, I know they appreciate the help. I am not paid to perform this service, so I am donating my time, fuel, and the wear and tear of my machine.

My machine is quieter than a snow blower, and I don't tear up and down the streets. My satisfaction is knowing I am helping people, mostly the elderly. My apology goes out to the person I upset, but mostly I apologize to the senior citizens who I can no longer help. Apparently someone sees me as a menace when I'm only trying to be helpful. Maybe they will help move your snow from now on. If I had their name and phone number, I'd provide it for you so you can thank them yourself. Oh well, they are probably busy anyway, so I guess you are on your own. Please bundle up when you go outside to shovel. Merry Christmas everyone.

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Comments

Helena h basket wrote on Jan 6, 2009 9:44 PM:

" in 30-40 years I'll be officially old. ( my kids think I'm that now!) If any of my children lived in town, and didn't come over to help their dear old mom shovel after a big snow fall, I'd call them and nag them to get in gear! If they are moved away.... I'd hope someone like Doug would "adopt me!" As people age, they lose stamina, muscle tone, and are at a much higher risk for falling. One fall on the ice can break a hip and cause a lot of damage. Some wise person said you can judge a society by how people treat their most vulnerable members- children, elderly and the disabled. Since when did treating others the way we'd want to be treated become "unlawful?" "

Dewdrop wrote on Jan 6, 2009 5:03 PM:

" Snap: Sopme elderly people have no chilren to take care of them! Also, a lot of elderly people owuld not dream of asking their chilren to pay someone to cut their grass or plow their snow! They are to proud to ask for help! Isn't that what you said people should do? NOT ask for help? I don't think that anyone asked Doug Hinkel to remove the snow, he does it because he is able to and he likes to help people. Isn't that what we are here for.... to help others less furtunate than we? Or did I get that wrong the last time I was in church?

BTW.... I have been out clearing our areas the last few weeks.... rural area with my snow blower..... some people offer to pay me, some don't.... It does cost a lot to run the big tractor, especially when you have to run a few miles and the snow is pretty deep but, it is not the money that matters, it is the neighbors that count! "

El Diablo wrote on Jan 6, 2009 4:10 PM:

" Doggonit, Snap... you've derailed! Children ensuring their parents' well-being, even from afar, is not in my master plan. You're fired! "

VoR wrote on Jan 6, 2009 3:22 PM:

" To Mandanite, My mistake. Thank you. The city should update it's website. I'll try it this way and see if it works any better.

To: Mayor, Tim Helbling or City Administrator, Jim Neubauer, Please try to find a few minutes in your busy schedules this week to share your views on this situation.
After all it is your job...right? "

Snap wrote on Jan 6, 2009 3:11 PM:

" If chilren cant take care of their elderly parents, the least they can do is hire and pay for a snow removal service to take care of mom and dad's drive and walk! No excuses! I'd be ashamed of myself if I knew a neighbor was taking care of my parents and while did nothing! "

Mandanite wrote on Jan 6, 2009 2:30 PM:

" To VoR: Ken LaMont is no longer the Mayor of Mandan, it is currently Tim Helbling (has been since June 2008). "

VoR wrote on Jan 6, 2009 1:35 PM:

" To Doug, Just a couple of points.
1. As others have pointed out, once you attach a blade your machine is no longer an ATV.
2. If the Mandan PD was dumb enough to ticket you, take it to court. Plenty of lawyers would help you just for the publicity.
3. Don't forget that to win in a jury trial you don't need to convince them all. You only need 1 and if the responses here are an indication of public sentiment you'll do just fine.
4. How interesting that the distinguished elected public officials of Mandan have not even bothered to comment on your predicament.

To: Mayor, Ken LaMont or City Administrator, Jim Neubauer, Please try to find a few minutes in your busy schedules this week to share your views on this situation. "

Mandanite wrote on Jan 6, 2009 12:08 PM:

" I believe this is a nice neighbor helping other neighbors out. Our neighbors on 1 side of us have done the same thing for us when we were out of town, as did my parents. Believe me, it was nice to come home from a week long vacation to a nicely plowed and shoveled driveway and sidewalk. Also, if I am out shoveling, I will go ahead and do shoveling for my neighbors, even if it isn't expected. I also just heard a story of a gentleman who this weekend had his snow blower out and did everyones sidewalks that live on his block. What a great neighbor!!! "

Ann wrote on Jan 6, 2009 10:42 AM:

" So snap and el diablo...are you trying to tell me (and the other children of this world who do not live close to their parents for one reason or another) that whenever it snows or the grass needs to be mowed that we need to drive however long it may and do this for them? If so, your nuts! Like I said earlier, if you expect that then someone needs to pay my gas and the upkeep on my vehicle. Do either of you have parent's in Bismarck/Mandan? And if so, do you "race" over there after the snow is done to clear their driveways or sidewalks? This was a situation of a neighbor helping his neighbor. That's all it was!! Let me tell you a story...a couple of weeks ago we had a nice snow fall of about 4 inches. My two sons, ages 9 and 13, were asked to go out and start shoveling until my hubby could get out with the snowblower. While they are shoveling a gentleman comes by with a small frontend loader and proceeds to assist them in cleaning the driveway. Don't know his name but it was greatly appreciated not only by my sons but also by my hubby and me. And guess what...my hubby is 44 and I'm 41. We aren't elderly and this guy (just like Doug) was doing it to be nice. That's it! I agree with my fellow posters who say to continue what your doing Doug. There are people out there who sincerely appreciate it. "

El Diablo wrote on Jan 6, 2009 9:23 AM:

" Once again, Snap, you've hit the nail on the head: better is a family member afar off than a caring neighbor at the ready. Thank you, thank you. And, fp, how dare you take away from or try and minimize Snap's work? He was serious earlier, as well as his most recent post. Stop trying to put his tongue in his cheek. "

Ann wrote on Jan 6, 2009 9:10 AM:

" To Snap, you are correct in your atatement that children should take care of the parents. My father lives in Beulah, my husband's parent's in Bismarck. Do you know where my husband and I live? We live in East Grand Forks MN...at least four hours away. Now granted, my father is 72 and able to run his snowblower as do my husband's parent's. But tell me, do you expect me (or my sister who lives approximately the same distance away) to drive four hours to clean out the driveway each and every time it snows? If you do, you can pay my gasoline bill along with the bills for the wear and tear on my car. My husband, brother-in-law, along with my sister and I are very thankful that our parents are able to care for themselves. That is not to say that if something did happen that we wouldn't be there to help. My mother passed away in March 2008 after being in the ICU at St A's for over a week. I was there the whole time as was my sister. I think Doug deserves a pat on the back and perhaps "neighbor of the week". Not all of us have the luxury of living close to our parents. My husband and I have said many times that we wish we did but we made the decision (as did my sister and my brother-in-law) to live where we do. Don't make us to look like the problem here. "

Tb wrote on Jan 6, 2009 8:55 AM:

" I have created a poll for those who live in Mandan or people that have driven in Mandan. It is a simple question "does city of Mandan do a good job on snow removal or snow plowing?" You can either reply yes or no. If you would like to vote please go to http://www.twiigs.com/search?k=mandan+&s=all Thanks "

ddd wrote on Jan 6, 2009 7:28 AM:

" Doug...you keep doing what your doing. I don't think the police really care about such a stupid complaint. If you get charged I don't think you will find 6 people who would think you are guilty of anything. I don't think the prosecuting office would even go so far as to charge you. I don't think the police would go any further then talking to you about it, which they have to if a complaint is called in. Keep it up Doug the community needs more people like you. "

Snap wrote on Jan 6, 2009 2:00 AM:

" And here's another thought! You all know ding dang well that those elderly folk have children! It's up to their kids to take care of them, nobody else! "

fp wrote on Jan 5, 2009 11:25 PM:

" I think snap`s tongues was truly in his cheek when he wrote his post. Lighten up he was being funny. Did the riff-raff steal the humor too? The one to watch out for is dewdrop. She is portraying the "sympathetic citizen" on this thread. "

Helena H basket wrote on Jan 5, 2009 8:05 PM:

" Helena's top 10 list of things to alert the cops about your neighbor...
10. you're pretty sure the main crop in his garden is marijuana 9. you saw his
picture hanging up in the post office. 8. He also really looks like one of those guys on datelines to catch a thief. 7. he rarely takes his ski mask off. 6. all those cold tablet boxes in his garbage scream "meth lab" 5. He changes his license plates like you change clothes 4. He answers to many different names..Phil, George, Matt. 3. he has his very own bail bondsman on speed dial 2. he answers every question with " I plead the 5th." 1. you see him snow blowing his neighbors driveway. Seriously, call the cops when there is a crime, and leave the good samaratins like Doug alone to do more good works... "

14marigolds wrote on Jan 5, 2009 6:32 PM:

" I live in Grand Forks now... When I went home for the holiday, it snowed, and at 8am when I went to let the dogs out, I saw 2 of my neighbors shoveling out an elderly couple that has lived in the neighborhood since my dad was a kid. (40 years or so.) When they were done, the elderly couple were out there shivering and thanking them for their help. Getting help is not a sign of weakness, perhaps you should be happy that someone cares about you enough to help.... "

to Lived in Bismarck wrote on Jan 5, 2009 2:30 PM:

" I have lived in both Bismarck and Mandan & I must disagree with your statement that "Bismarck is better than Mandan". Neither is better than the other - they both have positive & negative points. But what I have noticed is that many people who live in Bismarck sure do think they are better - but that just makes them snobs. "

DuWayne Hendrickson wrote on Jan 5, 2009 2:08 PM:

" Fortunatly up here in the North country we have citizens who are willing and able to help. Just last week some guy in Minnesota was helping clean the boat ramp so people had easy access to the river for ice fishing. Unfortunatly his payloader fell thru the ice and he lost his job. On any oher dy they were maybe telling him to clean up that boat dock since ice fishing has an economic impact on their community and they like the money that recreation brings in. We all cant be perfct but we all try to help out the fellow citizen if at all possible. Start appreciating what these people are doing for you. It is saving yo a back breaking job of shoveling your driveway, getting your vehicle unstuck and may be saving you from a heart attack. "

cally wrote on Jan 5, 2009 1:50 PM:

" Doug, keep up the good work!!! Now if we can figure out who complained??? They would get a just compliment as well! A North Dakotan in Sherwood, Oregon "

dan dehne wrote on Jan 5, 2009 12:42 PM:

" Hey Doug maybe it would have made a difference if you put snowgates on your blade. Then you would be the only machine in town with one.... "

B in M wrote on Jan 5, 2009 12:41 PM:

" All I can think of is maybe the neighbor already had his sidewalk/driveway cleaned off and the blade put snow on his already clean area??? "

to the Mandan Haters wrote on Jan 5, 2009 10:07 AM:

" Remember that Mandan also has nice people in it like Doug Hinkel. There is nothing worse than people who bash other people because of what side of the river they live on. RIDICULOUS! "

here we go again wrote on Jan 5, 2009 8:54 AM:

" I have a neighbor who is just like Doug, and I am grateful every time he clears our sidewalk and driveway. I have never once asked him to do it, and he never offered; he just started doing it. Sure, he doesn't do a "perfect" job, but it is so nice to come home after work and see my sidewalks are all done. I just need to get out the shovel and do some finishing, which is much easier than moving 8 inches of snow. Talk about looking a gift horse in the mouth. Doug, don't let the negativity of some people get you down. You are a special caring person. "

Ex Mandan Man wrote on Jan 4, 2009 11:31 PM:

" I used to live in Mandan but moved away when I grew tired of things like this happening all the time in so many different ways. This incident reminds me of why I moved out of Mandan, and why even with some great houses on the market, I will never move back. Only in Mandan are we going to find a city council that sells out to one certain developer who loves to drop noisy bars right in the middle of his housing developments, without telling the house buyers before they buy. Only in Mandan are we going to find a park board that slaps a local guy in the face after the mayor and members of the city commission egg the guy on to buy a big piece of Crying Hill so that he can donate to the city. And only in Mandan do people consider it progress to tear down their historical downtown 100-year old stone buildings, so that they can throw up sheetrock and metal frame pre-fabs that are going to last 20 or so years. There is a reason why Mandan is called Appalachia on the Missouri, and that reason doesn't have to do with any beautiful mountains. It has to do with a certain.... mindset. The man who complained about the little ridge of snow left behind by a good Samaritan should be ashamed. He already is miserable. "

Mike L. wrote on Jan 4, 2009 10:51 PM:

" Man, here I was looking at the stories and stumble across yours Doug. I need to stop by again sometime to shoot the breeze. If you want to test your four wheeler out I can pull it to my house. My driveway has gotten away and is just packing. It sounds like you have some free time with it now. Email me if you need help with anything.
Mike L. "

Lived in Bismarck wrote on Jan 4, 2009 1:35 PM:

" We use to clean our elderly neighbors sidewalks and drive-ways all the time. And when we moved they were said because they knew the owners wouldn't help them like we did! That's another reason Bismarck is better than Mandan! "

Mandan wrote on Jan 4, 2009 12:02 AM:

" to chatter: you need to read laws better! That ATV is considered snow removal equipment once the blade is added so is NOT illegal! If it would have been illegal the cop would have ticketed him, DUH!
About snap: this is one negative bored person who is continually adding negative comments on most articles just for attention it seems. I don't recall any comment from snap being informative in any way so the best way to deal with this type is to ignore like a child throwing a tantrum!

Again Doug you are doing a really great thing and I also would be right with the rest at paying any ticket they would try to give you! "

Dewdrop wrote on Jan 3, 2009 11:16 AM:

" Doug, I know that you will be rewarded for doing your good deeds! I hope Snap never has to ask anyone for any help with anything..... cause I bet not many would do it for him if they knew what he really thinks!

Happy New Year! and God Bless you! "

The Hawk wrote on Jan 3, 2009 9:52 AM:

" Sorry Doug - this is North Dakota. Get with the narrow-minded, self centered program here, or resign yourself to never-ending dissappointment in the local humanity. "

The Hawk wrote on Jan 3, 2009 9:44 AM:

" This is classic "North Dakota Nice." The person who called you in I am certain had just finished using their leaf blower at 7am or 11pm to get every snowflake off their driveway. And then comes you, Doug, clearing all of the sidewalks like some "do-gooder" and got some snowflakes on their driveway. The person who phoned in is classic, narrow, anal retentive, selfish North Dakota that I have come to know and love - only for the entertainment value. "

to liz wrote on Jan 3, 2009 9:41 AM:

" It appears that you are unfamiliar with the concept of facetiousness... "El Diablo" is playing the "devil's advocate" to help accentuate the silliness of comments from "Snap". "

Thankful wrote on Jan 3, 2009 7:55 AM:

" I must say if only there were more people like Doug,the world would be alot better place. I live in the country and recently had snow piled high from the wind, What a great sight to see my neighbor (Jeff) coming up my driveway with his tractor and snowblower. Sure I have a tractor (old one) but it made it so much easier for me and my Wife along with all the other neighbors that Jeff blew out. Not only once has he did this but several times and even with Deisel prices high he would not except money for fuel. He does it much like Doug, out of the goodness of their hearts! A friend helping a friend!!!! what a great feeling. So to Jeff and Doug and all the people like them THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU!!!! you truely are GREAT people keep up the good work it makes our neighborhoods alot better place to live. "

to rj wrote on Jan 3, 2009 7:47 AM:

" So is it fair to assume, from your criticism of Doug's work, that you yourself get bundled up for a day of snow removal for your neighborhood, just out of the goodness of your heart?? No? I didn't think so. Git on back to your beer and your X-Box, sweetie = ) "

SNAP is the neighbor wrote on Jan 3, 2009 7:44 AM:

" From reading 'Snap's' negative comments, methinks HE is the Hinkel's neighbor. Boy, if only the world was filled with more sour people such as him.......NOT.

I would love to have a neighbor such as Doug, and especially if I was elderly. Keep up the great work!! (ps....move to Bismarck, your help would be much appreciated in every neighborhood here!) "

liz wrote on Jan 3, 2009 6:45 AM:

" How do offensive people like Snap and El Diablo (aptly named the Devil) get to post their ugly outright mean comments?
El Diabo's last post:
" Ah, yes, Snap... good words! Discourage the Doug Hinkels and his ilk. We wouldn't want to do anything moral by the elderly. You are my MVP! "

It is a really offensive and ugly comment speaking ill of others and especially the elderly - I am sure I am not the only one that feels this way "

VoR wrote on Jan 3, 2009 2:21 AM:

" Whenever more than 3 or 4 inches of snow falls in my part of town, without fail my next-door neighbor gets out his snow blower and clears about 30 percent of the sidewalks on our block. When it's a lesser amount I usually get out my shovel and clear both my sidewalk & his. The last few years that burden has fallen more on me, but this year my neighbors help has been greatly appreciated.

Hes a member of our National Guard and when he was out of town my wife & I would look after his old dog until it passed away last year. Once this Winter while I was at work my wife's car became stuck in a snow drift in our alley. My neighbor helped her to free it and get it moved onto our property. The next day a different neighbor farther down the block took out his Bobcat and plowed the entire alley. He did leave a ridge but I doubt anyone called the cops on him.

Doug Hinkel is just being a good neighbor. Those who reside on his block are fortunate to live in a place where helping a neighbor or receiving that help still happens. Nobody is asking for this help and I doubt most are anything but grateful for it when it is given.

I for one salute you Mr. Hinkel. Obviously you are the kind of guy who won't allow the selfish act of some grumbling fool stop you from providing the fine service you do. Let's just hope that you are an inspiration to a few more "real North Dakotans".
Happy New Year. "

hello wrote on Jan 2, 2009 2:54 PM:

" You can shovel their snow what are they going to arrest for??? You can do what you want. "

This is crazy wrote on Jan 2, 2009 1:30 PM:

" Good job Doug.

To all Mandan police officers just to let you all know I will again be doing my elderly neighbors, my recently widowed neighbors and my
handicapped neighbors driveways tomorrow. Since the city of Mandan does not believe in snow plows I have rented a bobcat to remove the snow so two cars can drive past our houses at the same time. Which happens to be on a so called emergency evacuation route. I guess if were up to the city of Mandan the entire snow routes and streets would be taken care of by guys like Doug and others. "

James wrote on Jan 1, 2009 5:13 PM:

" Doug, I have a great neighbor to one side of me that does this too. I LOVE it. I think we could get you moved into the house on the other side of me so I don't EVER have to worry about snow removal!!!!!!!! ;) Good work, keep it up. Looks to me like you have an extra driveway to push your snow into now!!!!! "

JT wrote on Jan 1, 2009 11:22 AM:

" Some people have nothing better to complain about that a little ridge of snow?!?! Get real - it's not like your driveway is totaly spotless or will be for the next several months. I would love it if someone cleared my sidewalk. This man is trying to help and all you can do it whine about a little snow ridge. And to the city - what happen to the snow gates and why are you not using them??? End of my drive way is always packed with snow. "

El Diablo wrote on Jan 1, 2009 11:11 AM:

" Ah, yes, Snap... good words! Discourage the Doug Hinkels and his ilk. We wouldn't want to do anything moral by the elderly. You are my MVP! "

rj wrote on Jan 1, 2009 10:33 AM:

" When you have spent time cleaning your driveway and side walk, it is not fun to see a ridge of snow across your driveway from a snow blade such as Doug has or even worse from the citys plows. A snow blower won't leave a ridge like that or lift the blade up when you come to someone's clean driveway so you don't leave snow ridges.
Its great you like to help others with their sidewalks, so how hard would it be to clean up the ridges when your done, or how hard would it be to not leave a ridge in someones clean driveway? "

A Greatful Neighbor wrote on Jan 1, 2009 10:09 AM:

" Why doesn't the city start towing all the vehicles that have been sitting for 3 or more weeks on the streets. On my way to work I can count at least 18 vehicles that have been plowed around the last 3 snow falls. It's obvious that these vehicles are not going anyplace or being used so why don't the city impound them??
Thats another thing I love about my neighborhood.We always get our cars off the street so our street will be all plowed out and clean. Like I said before Doug, Keep Up The Good Work....... "

Carol wrote on Jan 1, 2009 9:44 AM:

" OMG, you people should count your blessings! Try living in a small rural community where the snow wouldn't get moved unless it was for people like DOUG.People like him are a great asset to any community.Keep up the good work
and happy shoveling to the sour puss!!!! "

liz wrote on Jan 1, 2009 7:38 AM:

" Way to go Doug - Ignore these nasty few, who, in their life would not do a kind thing for another person. As an asthmatic, I know I was sure happy with my neighbor who has come by a couple times with their snowblower and helped out!
There should be more people like you! After all is that what a neighbor is all about?
There is an exception to EVERY rule and bless that Officer who understands that.
Happy New Year and blessings! "

justfun1111 wrote on Jan 1, 2009 5:09 AM:

" Just to let you know that once you put a plow on the front of an ATV it is no longer a ATV and becomes a machine such as a tractor or other snow removal machine. Therefore they are legal to run on the streets at that time. Better check the law !!!! "

Snap wrote on Jan 1, 2009 2:04 AM:

" The elderly were outside in the "bitter" cold before you were born! A real North Dakotan doesn't ask for help and is embarrassed to get any! "

LDH wrote on Jan 1, 2009 12:44 AM:

" Doug, to heck with them. I have three words for you: PLOW, BABY, PLOW! "

Keith wrote on Dec 31, 2008 11:45 PM:

" You are the man Doug, the spirit of kindness, more people need to get into it!!
The police have better things to do, like enforce city ordinance and see the city cleans their own sidewalks, many city owned property with plugged sidewalks in front, that is the city for ya!! "

s l o a wrote on Dec 31, 2008 7:46 PM:

" Hey Doug, you are doing a great job. It is too bad that someone is too lazy to push the little ridge of snow back him/herself. We also have a neighbor who borrows his dad's atv or skidster to do our driveway. Never once have we been upset because it is not perfect or done the way we would do it. We are so relieved and thankful that he helps us out when he has the time. He even pushes snow off the lawn so my husband can park off the street. He will never know how this helps us, and we know he does it, not only to help us out, but because it is fun for him...
Thanks Dustin... We love you, man!!! "

Doug Hinkel wrote on Dec 31, 2008 7:45 PM:

" Wow. Thank you all for the kind comments. I never expected this and it's appreciated. I will continue to help those close neighbors that appreciate my help and will discontinue the rest of the block in my neighborhood. I'm told I can find out who the person is that complained but I will not do so. As others have said when they are no longer to help themselves, they may think back to this message and feel different. Everyone is entitled to his or her opinion and I respect that. If it were Summer time and I was driving on public sidewalks and streets I would see this is a violation of the law. Doing so in the winter with all the snow we have gotten with a plow mounted on my machine I feel different. Again my opinion. As I stated I just feel very badly for the elderly trying to clear their snow when they have no business even being outside in the bitter cold. I can no longer help them. If it were my dad who passed away and someone was helping him out I'd appreciate it very much. Today's society is very different it seems. Thanks again for all the support and even those who critized me for breaking the law. Happy New Year.
Doug Hinkel "

A Greatful Neighbor wrote on Dec 31, 2008 5:23 PM:

" I have a neighbor who always clears the snow and huge drifts away from the mail box we all use or the Post Office won't deliver the mail. I and my fellow neighbors bought him a nice gift certificate to Olive Garden and the biggest platter of X-mas Cookies you ever did see.In my neighborhood we also have a person who gets his driveway and sidewalk blown open everytime it snows and he has never come around to find out who did it and say Thank you, but we keep doing it because WE want to...

About the Snowplows that come thru, We have had different drivers and we noticed one that always leaves more in front of the driveways than the others. I think he just needs practice..Please continue what your doing Doug "

Becky wrote on Dec 31, 2008 4:12 PM:

" Pretty funny El Diablo. Nice sarcastic tone. First time I've had a good chuckle from one of these posts in a long time. Happy New Year! "

El Diablo wrote on Dec 31, 2008 2:59 PM:

" No, Snap. Your post had nothing to do with the law so let's not give a rascal like Dewdrop any credit. Let me heap on you the praise you deserve. You critiqued Doug Hinkel for announcing to all who would listen what he thought was absurdity. Your approach was masterful; it tried to make him feel badly about doing right things and that's exactly what I want. Now, how about a good word for the thoughtful, law-abiding citizen who chose to do the right thing concerning the law and picked up the phone to complain? "

Snap wrote on Dec 31, 2008 1:28 PM:

" Well, as my fellow poster Dewdrop always tells me, the law is the law and that's that! If it's illegal to clear the street then he can't do it anymore! And that's that! "

Double D wrote on Dec 31, 2008 11:33 AM:

" Just think, we get to pay huge property tax to the city of Bismarck to get our huge piles of snow in our driveways and someone is doing it for free. "

El Diablo wrote on Dec 31, 2008 10:17 AM:

" Mr. Hinkel, you are the enemy to poor neighborly relations; you've been too much the solution to problems; for Heck's agenda, you are a fly in the ointment. Chatter, you keep it up... demanding the letter of the law be kept on this instead of its spirit will insure the elderly and widows of Hinkel's neighborhood are not visited in their affliction. Snap... what can I say? You da' Man! Thanks for snatching defeat from the jaws of victory. Keep up the great posts! "

kim wrote on Dec 31, 2008 9:34 AM:

" Doug,
Your a beautiful person inside and out. I wish more people would be like you. I think what you did for your neighbors is above and beyond. We should help one another out without asking for anything in return except, a mere thank you once in awhile. Best wishes to you Doug. Don't let this one sour apple stop you from doing what you love to do. I know I would appreciate your help. Happy New Year! "

Kimberly wrote on Dec 31, 2008 9:19 AM:

" This is completely ridiculous. If all I had to worry about cleaning was a little ridge of snow, I'd be thrilled. This person who complained obviously needs to get a life, and take a look at the big picture. Why would anyone complain about something so trivial? I've had ridges in my driveway from the city cleaning, and I'm just thankful that they finally got out and cleaned the street. The few shovels it takes to remove the ridge are minimal (and good exercise). Mr. Hinkel sounds like a great guy to have around, and it sounds like most of his neighbors appreciate him. Maybe the one who doesn't should move. L.E.O., as far as the number of complaints like this/need to respond to them, I guarantee that there are many more about the way the cities are cleaning the streets. I find it ironic that excuses are made for the lack of prompt cleaning/sanding of the streets, but someone who volunteers his time to help others is reprimanded. "

westernite wrote on Dec 31, 2008 9:07 AM:

" I have racked my brain since I read this letter yesterday morning trying to figure out why anyone would complain about someone who is doing such a good thing. Frankly, I can't find any good reason why the person who called LE would do such a thing.

The only thing I can think of is that the complainer was just having a bad day or was lonely and needed someone to listen and could only think of Doug as an excuse. Maybe it was not just the snow ridge.

I am not defending the caller. Just trying to analyze him/her.

Doug...you are doing a wonderful thing and just because you get one complainer don't think that your kind gesture doesn't mean something to everyone else.

Jennie...thanks for the nostalgic story of your grandpa. It made me think of my own dad...plowing the sidewalks of my childhood neighborhood in the early seventies with our first snowblower...That thing was a monster to handle but got the job done. Our job and everyone else on the entire block. Dad was awesome that way. The only time it got dangerous was when the dog rope, with the dog on, got caught in the spikes...the dog was screaming and my mother ran out of the house in the nick of time to save the dog from the "machine"...He was fine but the sight of it was I will never forget!!

Happy New Year all...just because someone turns away your gift, no matter what it is, don't let it sour you on giving more. "

Susan Beehler wrote on Dec 31, 2008 8:39 AM:

" Doug, I want to thank you for helping your neighbors, as far as I know there is no ordinance saying you cannot help clean sidewalks. Maybe the ordinance your act of helping a neighbor comes under being a nuisance. It is really a shame the person who had an issue with what you were doing was not able to contact you, you sound like the kind of person who would have helped move the snow from this driveway. I find it truly amazing I have put three calls into the city and the police asking for the snow to be plowed in front of my main street business. The fire department was driving their snow plow pickup on main street on another block removing snow, but it was over a week before we had any kind of action because the police would not enforce the parking downtown until after December 22. This is a prime example of a perceived city policy of random enforcement of ordinances. Is it coming from our city leaders, to enforce only when there are complaints and depending on who complains or how is enforcement determined? Doug do not be discouraged continue your good deeds. Thank you, neighbor! "

Chatter wrote on Dec 31, 2008 8:23 AM:

" ATV's are not allowed in Bismarck or Mandan to be run on the public street and/or sidewalks. Doug YOU BROKE the LAW. Next time it could be a ticket. "

to Snap wrote on Dec 31, 2008 8:20 AM:

" Lighten up dude. Methinks if it were YOU in the letter-writer's shoes, you would do the same thing. In every comment section, you always seem to be the criticizing poster. Do you enjoy being this unhappy in life??

Mr. H. did the right thing!!!! "

L.E.O wrote on Dec 31, 2008 7:41 AM:

" To: To: L.E.O.:
A majority of what we do is "confront unreasonable stupidity". But as "Too Bad" posted, if we do not respond to or dismiss complaints, it does truely open another can of worms. Keep in mind, I think Mr. Hinkel was doing a good thing here. "

Dewdrop wrote on Dec 31, 2008 6:59 AM:

" I too, want to tell Doug what a great thing he is doing! I wish that the person that called the police had the guts to put his name out there for the world to see! If I ever see in the paper or anywhere else that Doug has to pay a fine for helping out his neighbors, I certainly will help pay the fine and court costs! "

LB wrote on Dec 31, 2008 5:35 AM:

" WOW. That is all I can say!!! That neighbor that complained needs to get a life (and I HOPE he/she is reading all these comments in support of Mr. Hinkel!) I would be thrilled to have a neighbor like him~~esp. if I was elderly and esp. this snowy winter.

Bless you Mr. H---sorry you have such a sourpuss on your block who has ruined the good you do for everyone else. = ( "

Snap wrote on Dec 31, 2008 4:10 AM:

" This letter shouldn't have gone to the Trib, it should have been passed out on his block! Publicly airing dirty laundry and publicly taking the martyr stance ain't right! "

John wrote on Dec 31, 2008 4:02 AM:

" The police like answering calls like this as it is a free reason to check their records and look for warrants. "

abc wrote on Dec 30, 2008 10:02 PM:

" Keep plowing, Doug.
If you get a ticket, I think there will be people lined up around the block to pay it. I will be the first in line.
To the people who don't like the ridge..........tell Doug, not the police. I'll bet Doug walks the width of your driveway with his shovel and pushes your ridge to the side. "

Mary wrote on Dec 30, 2008 10:01 PM:

" I am so happy to see an overwhelming response in favor of Doug who seems to be quite a thoughtful man.

Privileged and thankful. That describes the way I feel (and probably the rest of the residents) on my street and undoubtedly the residents around Doug. Whenever someone is unable to mow or clear snow, another neighbor takes over. If someone is outside shoveling or snowblowing, they don't just go to the end of their own property line--they go to the next driveway. If something is broken and needs fixing, most everyone knows which homes to take the items to be repaired.

Not to be compared to "The Waltons" or "Little House on the Prairie", but you sure do get that sense of neighbor helping neighbor on our street. Pride, respect, dignity--all intact. Indeed a privilege to live on this street.

I encourage Doug's neighbors to continue to support his kind acts. If they find the complainer, give that person a Bible so they have something constructive to do with their time and then our public servants can continue to perform their real work. "

SNOW wrote on Dec 30, 2008 8:51 PM:

" I cannot believe this. In the last 2 1/2 weeks I have done 5 to 6 neighbor because I enjoy helping out. Some of the neighbors are elderly and the others have other reasons they may not be able to do the job. After reading this I am wondering if I really should be doing this anymore. Its sad that some idiot would complain about a little ridge of snow. Go shovel the little ridge out yourself. One day when this person who complained can nolonger shovel his own sidewalk ,NOBODY helps him out. Let the city send someone to his home and do the job and charge him.
I do it because I enjoy helping others out but if this is going to happen why do it anymore. "

bigpoppakdog wrote on Dec 30, 2008 8:47 PM:

" Wow, just another example of the expectations of, in this case, a single Mandanite. At least, there is a great rally in support of Mr. Hinkel. I snowblowed my neighbors small driveway like many others do, without being asked or without expecting anything in return. I got a gift today from her. Was nice. Maybe everyone on that block should chip in say buck or two and see who would have a problem with it. Then you would know who the complainer was and Mr. Hinkel and just go around this persons driveway and have them do it themselves. "

To L.E.O. wrote on Dec 30, 2008 7:47 PM:

" You also have an obligation to confront unreasaonable stupidity. You KNOW not EVERY complaint is legitimate. This is a case where you make the whinner file a formal complaint, taek it to court and let a jury decide what is right. . . then it becomes public record and the dumb people are revealed.

Doug: please . . . please. . . please keep doing it. Let them apply the mystery ordinance and fine you. Write back to to the editor and I will pay for your ticket, in fact I know several people will formally join in . . . in your support. "Just Do it" "

Helena H basket wrote on Dec 30, 2008 7:27 PM:

" Good Grief!! If someone came over and cleaned out my driveway on a routine basis, I'd give him a gift certificate to a local restaurant in show of appreciation.
( after doing a happy dance in the snow) If money was tight, one could bake him some cookies or reciprocate in some way like pet sitting, etc. Calling the cops to complain? That's pretty out there. I am thankful for neighbors we have. Although no one has ever cleaned out my driveway, people have helped me push my car when I was stuck, have been very forgiving about baseballs and frisbees being tossed too hard and ending up in their yard, and have clipped out and saved sports articles where our children made the news. Doug, you'd be a great addition to our neighborhood! "

Sorry for Doug wrote on Dec 30, 2008 7:25 PM:

" God Bless You, but this whole story just reminds me of how glad I am that we won our fight against being annexed into the "Great City of Mandan". To think that you poor people have to deal with stupid episodes like this is rediculous. I understand that the officer had to respond to this complaint call, or like someone wrote earlier, it would have opened up a whole new can of worms, but it could have been handles alot differently. He could have just let Doug know that someone complained, let doug know that what he was doing was great but just try to be careful about leaving the ridges. Then... the officer should have went and talked to the complainer and in a decrete way, let him/her know that such a complaint was rediculous. "

TK wrote on Dec 30, 2008 6:57 PM:

" My husband is a snowplow operator and needless to say hasn't been home much lately. Our 14 yr. old does snowblow neighbors yards and sidewalks when he isn't at his P/T job ~ what a wonderful sight when I came home tonight to our neighbor snowblowing our driveway that I could hardly get out of. Thanks Kevin for all you do.

Mr. Hinkel bless you for all you do!!! Keep up the good work!!

Happy New Year Everyone! "

This is nuts wrote on Dec 30, 2008 6:46 PM:

" Wow! First of all the City sidewalk is just that, the City's sidewalk; I rather doubt the City has a law against removing snow from their sidewalks! The City has the right to plow and leave a large ridge of snow in front of our driveway, therefore, I am sure it isn't against the law for Doug to leave a small ridge on the edge of the City's sidewalk.

If this person that has a problem with good deeds doesn't want a ridge, they could shovel before Doug gets there and there would very little if any ridge. Problem solved, except for the neighbor!

For the police to instruct not to do what the City mandates (clean the sidewalks) is absurd! "

Miles M wrote on Dec 30, 2008 6:11 PM:

" Doug, if they are going to hastle you for that, they outta throw the city council and snow plow drivers in jail for putting a 4 foot hard snow pile in front of my clean driveway so my wife can't get out of the driveway to get to work or pick up the kiddies at daycare. If it wasn't for a helpful neighbor like yourself she wouldn't have been able to get out of the driveway.

YOU, MY FRIEND TRULY ARE A LOVELY MAN. "

Mandan wrote on Dec 30, 2008 5:42 PM:

" you are a great person Doug and I know my father-in-law does this for his elderly neighbors to! It is too bad that you have such a negative neighbor who is too chicken to say something themselves!
On another note should I call the police because after my husband cleared our drive and by our mailbox the city came by and have now left over 2 feet in front of our drive and around 5 foot in the way of the mail? I mean it amounts to the same thing now doesn't it? I am amazed the police department didn't tell the caller to deal with it themselves! "

Kathleen wrote on Dec 30, 2008 5:31 PM:

" You're a good man Doug, keep doing the good and kind work. There will always be crabby and unappreciative people around us, focus on the positive! "

Scott wrote on Dec 30, 2008 4:59 PM:

" I also live in Mandan, I would like to file a compalint against the city snow plow operator who leaves not only a ridge but a small mountain in the end of my driveway, if Mr. Hinkel actions could not be tolerated then certainly these snow plow operators have got to do a better job of placing the snow (when possible) next to that portion of the street that contains no driveways.

Mr. Hinkel thank you for your kindness to others and to who ever reported him please go get a life. "

Thankful wrote on Dec 30, 2008 4:36 PM:

" I can not imagine why someone would complain about this.

We have the world's best neighbor. He mowes our lawn in the winter and moves our snow. He is great. Although he has never caused any damage or a ridge, I would never complain if he did.

We are very thankful to him for his help. He has even gotten a stray muskrat out of the window well. Yes, we live on the way to McDowall Dam.

There are not many people who do any good for others unless there is something in if for them. Be thankful and remember to help others. You will make someones day!!!!!!

Thanks again to our great neighbor, he will know who he is!!!! "

Too bad wrote on Dec 30, 2008 4:14 PM:

" It's really too bad someone had to complain about a small ridge of snow when in comparison to the 32 inches we have already gotten a small ridge is a blessing! I realize the police need to respond to all calls and complaints, if they don't it opens a whole 'nother can of worms because then the complainer would complain that the police dismissed his complaint! See the cycle? I am sure the officer was simply doing what he had to in order to respond to the call. Not a pleasant job sometimes. I do agree that the neighbors need to let Doug know how much they appreciate him, and the one that doesn't call - well he does his own sidewalk from now on!! My neighbor has cleaned our driveway several times and he will never know the relief and appreciation I have, even though I tell him. Please don't let this stop any of us from helping others when in need. That would be too bad. "

Dougs Neighbor wrote on Dec 30, 2008 3:38 PM:

" Thank you to all of you who are showing support for Doug and good deeds in general! We are proud to have him as a neighbor. He has helped us clean our sidewalks and driveway many times this year and previous years, even though we are not elderly. He does it with a smile on his face and without expecting anything in return!! The world would be a better place if there were more people like him. Instead it is filled with people who have to complain about everything. "

Dan wrote on Dec 30, 2008 3:30 PM:

" My wife had outpatient surgery this morning. I was able to shovel out from behind our car to the street. I expected I would be shoveling the rest of the driveway and walks after we got back. When we pulled up to the house we saw our neighbor heading back to his place with his snowblower. Without any request from me he had cleared from our garage to the street.

Thanks Bruce Boehm. "

L.E.O. wrote on Dec 30, 2008 3:28 PM:

" As a local law enforcement officer in the Bis-Man area, I can guarantee that the average person does not realize the amount of complaints lately of this nature, or of someone blowing snow and it drifting into the street, etc. There have been few calls that are justified with somone actually blowing or pushing snow into the street intentionally, which is against city ordinance. We are obligated to respond to each complaint to check them out and at times will advise the person of the complaint against them. I can say that I have seen several people with ATV's with blades on them like Mr. Hinkel doing several sidewalks or a whole neighborhood and I have driven on by and given them a friendly wave. In my neighborhood, my neighbors have done my sidewalk for me when I am on shift, and I try to return the favor whenever I can, so it is unfortunate that in Mr. Hinkel's neighborhood someone was unhappy for whatever reason and complained. "

fp wrote on Dec 30, 2008 3:25 PM:

" Thanks for being a good person Doug. You will be getting more thanks than no thanks. What is with the police in the Bis Man area? Bustin kids for partying and telling you not to do your good deeds. I will never forget when the police broke up a party back in 75 at schmidt bottoms. He made everyone follow behind his squad car so they got home allright. Where are these kind hearted officers now a day`s. No one got a ticket he just wanted to make sure they fot back into mandan safely. "

mandan citizen wrote on Dec 30, 2008 3:20 PM:

" You can't satisfy some people if "you hung them with a new rope" (an old saying). I deliver papers and many times my customers have big drifts, etc. in their driveways and on sidewalks and it is hard to walk through them to get to their door or steps (many are hip deep)so I many times will drive into their drives to get closer. Well, I had a customer call me and ask me not to drive into his drive as I packed it down and he would have to use the scraper. Well, I have never seen his driveway scraped to the bare pavement so he was telling a story. I wonder where he drives to get out of his garage. Needless to say, he now gets his paper thrown from the sidewalk and it may go half way up his drive. Guess he is more satisfied having to go out and get his paper rather than have it delivered to his door if I were to drive on his driveway. Some people have way too much time on their hands and have to complain about everything.

Doug keep up the good work. Although you may make it into the record books for getting a ticket for doing a good deed for the neighborhood. Need more people like you! "

Nothing Worse than a Bad Neighbor wrote on Dec 30, 2008 2:58 PM:

" I had a neighbor complain last summer that I mowed too close to his yard. Seriously, do people have nothing better to do than watch their neighbors? Doug, way to go! Keep up the good job. I doubt their will be a tribune story on "Man gets arrested for removing neighbors snow". "

Kim wrote on Dec 30, 2008 2:51 PM:

" Doug you can come to my house and plow your little heart out! My neighbor has blown out my driveway 3 times in the last week. My husband works a TON and I have 2 little kids at home. I am SOOOO thankful to him for helping me out! I would still be parking on the street with a little path to my front door without his help! "

Mandanite wrote on Dec 30, 2008 2:24 PM:

" Doug: What an awesome thing you are doing! I wouldn't let one bah humbug person get to you. Continue your good work. What can they do, jail you for being a good neighbor? "

Thats Cool wrote on Dec 30, 2008 2:11 PM:

" It's a good, nice thing that Doug has done for his neighbors. I wish he lived in my neighborhood in Mandan.

Where I live hardly anyone moves snow from their property to a pile ON THEIR PROPERTY. Nope, push it out in piles on the public street. Just this morning I watched a father and son add to their couple of already five foot high piles on the street in front of their property. They have plenty of space on their lawn area, but they are way to selfish to put it there.

They are definition of Riff Raff.

"" This is the new society that we have to deal with. "?" Hockey pucks! These are 'old timers,' who must believe they have the RIGHT to skip on by the rules. "

evb wrote on Dec 30, 2008 2:08 PM:

" Just sad. My neighbors have assisted me through out the years and if there was an issue it was addresed by me directly to my neighbor, not the police. I hope this does not stop people from helping others. It might be wise to ask our neighbors in advance if they are okay with good will gestures. In our current culture, it is best to protect ourselves. "

Edward wrote on Dec 30, 2008 1:53 PM:

" Remember, do a good deed and you will be punished. "

jw wrote on Dec 30, 2008 1:35 PM:

" Doug, I hope you can see from the outpouring of support that what you do truly matters.

God Bless! "

unreal wrote on Dec 30, 2008 1:19 PM:

" I cannot beleive that anyone would complain about a small ridge left in the driveway. Have the seen the 2 foot ridge left in some diveways by the city! it is unreal the amount of snow they have piled in my driveway, I wish I had a neighbor that would be so kind!They should be thankful. "

Jennie wrote on Dec 30, 2008 1:09 PM:

" Doug, I was greatly upset by your story. My grandfather lived in Bismarck and althhough he was elderly, he was a worker. He loved doing the sidewalks up and down our street and did the driveways of the people he knew needed to get to work/church early or who just were unable to do it themselves... he passed away 5 years ago and on the day of his funeral it snowed. When we arrived home from the service our driveway was the only one on the street that had been shoveled. Our neighbors truly appreciated what he had done and did this as a sign of respect for my grandfather. My entire family was touched by this one kind act as all of our neighbors had been touched by the acts of kindness that he had performed for them over the years.
I feel sorry for the person who would have called you in. I hope you know that others truly do appreciate what you have done for them and find a way to continue! Thanks for all you do. "

Keep it up Doug wrote on Dec 30, 2008 12:58 PM:

" Doug, I would not let the person who complained stop you from doing what is in your heart. Keep plowing and if they do not like it let them tell you. It did suprise me that the police used valuable time and city assets to do the complaint. Keep up the good work most of your neighbors are not complaining. Happy New Year "

old lady wrote on Dec 30, 2008 12:07 PM:

" Thank you for careing about people. I live in Mandan and our streets are full of snow and when my husband and I get our driveway cleared,quite a job because we are both in our late 60's and early 70 The little bit of snow clearing the city does in our area puts a very large ridge of snow in our driveway. the last snow I measured and it was 4 feet of snow ridge,it took us 2 days to get it moved. The city doesn't do anything about that,but a good man trying to help people they are right there. Is they any justice at all anymore? "

sara wrote on Dec 30, 2008 11:56 AM:

" That's so awesome what you were doing!!! I can't believe someone would call the cops about this..... I feel sorry for all of your neighbors what you were doing was great! and not too many ppl would do that know a days "

To Mr. Hinkel wrote on Dec 30, 2008 11:01 AM:

" Please don't stop doing what you've been doing because of one person complaining. Think of the other people who really appreciate what you do and who probably can't do it for themselves! We have a neighbor like you who has a snowblower. My husband is disabled and my other neighbor is 91 years old. Without this good Samaritan, particularly this year, we simply would not be able to keep up with the snow. Thanks! "

Online Editor Jason Lueder wrote on Dec 30, 2008 10:55 AM:

" My neighbor, Terry, cleaned my driveway for me before I left for work this morning. I have a snowblower too, but he did it for me anyway. Thanks Terry! "

A kind lesson learned wrote on Dec 30, 2008 10:51 AM:

" I used to live and work in Williston. I had a neighbor like you and I was always grateful when I got home, at the end of the day, and my sidewalk was plowed. Sometimes he would nick the grass and dig a little out, but it was not a problem as it always grew back.

One of my other neighbors would sometimes plow out my driveway.

Now I live in Bismarck/Mandan and have a large garden tractor with a forty-seven inch two-stage snow blower. The tractor has full hydraulics.

The wind is going down, the sun is coming out and I am going out to clear my long driveway and do my neighbors driveways as well. One is elderly and retired; the other is not.

The street has been plowed but I will touch up around the mailboxes so the postal employee can drive up close to the mailbox. "

kk wrote on Dec 30, 2008 10:36 AM:

" you did a good job and frankly the people that complained should be snowed in! "

snoller wrote on Dec 30, 2008 10:23 AM:

" Wow, this could be some kind of a joke. Maybe there were kids inside pulling a prank and giggling. I've never heard of something so stupid. If they are adults, then they should be fined for calling the police for a rediculous unneccesary call. The officer could have been focusing on bigger issues. This should be on strange news "

My Opinion wrote on Dec 30, 2008 10:07 AM:

" If I was the police officer, I wouldn't have bothered saying anything. Whoever called in the complaint should rethink their actions. Someone is doing something nice for people and someone calls the police on this. Very dumb, very pointless, very small minded.

Mr. Hinkle - you are a lovely man to help your neighbors this way. "

NDfarmer wrote on Dec 30, 2008 10:04 AM:

" This is the new society that we have to deal with. "

jw wrote on Dec 30, 2008 10:00 AM:

" Doug, I am sorry that this had to happen to such a great neighbor as yourself. My father used to walk around the entire neighborhood at one time with his snowblower and clean all the sidewalks. He was never asked and was never repaid for his time or fuel either. No one complained but he did it out of the kindness of his heart. That is what good people do. Its a real shame when people have to find something to complain about, like having a ridge on a driveway. I agree, if there was an issue, they should have come and talked to you and asked that you don't do their sidewalk. To call the police and bring them into such a trivial matter is a waste of their time and resources. They should have told the caller to deal with it themselves. I commend you Doug Hinkel. I wish you were my neighbor. I am sure there are a lot of other people that wish the same. I give you a thumbs up for what you are doing. Thank you for helping those that can not. Happy New Years. To the Online Editor. It was nice visiting with you.. "

Just stay with it wrote on Dec 30, 2008 9:56 AM:

" I say ignore it and keep doing what you're doing. What are they really going to do? If it comes down to a charge, you'll have plenty of neighbors standing up for you. Civil disobedience Doug. It feels good to do it. "

Older Person wrote on Dec 30, 2008 9:56 AM:

" The people on Doug Hinkel's block should telephone Mr. Hinkel and let him know they appreciate what he is doing and request his continuing the snow removal. Then the Jerk that made the telephone call to the police can sit there with his own shovel and figure out how he will remove the snow should he have health problems, etc. in the future. "

Good job Doug wrote on Dec 30, 2008 9:48 AM:

" Ya know what Doug, To heck with the complainers and police. I don't know of any ticket the police can give out for leaving a ridge of snow on someones driveway. I would continue to help out your elderly neighbors, I too do the same. "

lw wrote on Dec 30, 2008 9:26 AM:

" And the police were called to handle this? Why didn't the person that didn't like the ridge just walk over to this guy and let him know what the deal was. Then, he could continue to clean for those that appreciate it and the police wouldn't have been bothered with such a rediculous call. Like they say "no good deed goes unpunished". "

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