Milwaukee winters aren't the worst around. Plenty of places are colder, snowier. Minneapolis, Montreal, Iceland. Precisely because we’re cold, but not consistently freezing, we try to get by without the right clothing, boots, gear, snow tires, policy changes, and snow removal techniques that would make winter more pleasant for everyone. And because we don't do winter well here, our quality of life sags. Probably a little bit for everyone, but some groups feel it more acutely. 

• Elders. Winter means the risk of slipping and falling.

• People who have limited mobility, like users of wheelchairs, crutches, walking boots, walkers, and canes. Snow and ice removal needs to improve markedly for these folks to participate safely in outdoor activities in winter.

• Adults. Milwaukee adults don't have much programming offered to us other than beer and walking around and looking at things (think holiday lights or ice carving with chainsaws).

• People in a seasonal funk due to changing light levels. 

• People who don't have the means or cultural knowledge/access to go on a ski vacation.

Accessibility advocates often say that increased accessibility benefits everyone. This is a prime example of a shift in our attitude toward winter would make Milwaukee a better place for all.