Parade routes, then and now
Tuesday, February 27, 2007
When I was a kid, our family happily went to Mardi Gras parades carrying simple bag lunches, some snacks and a cooler or Thermos. Maybe we bought a treat or drink from a vendor. We would never presume to set up housekeeping on St. Charles or Napoleon avenue.
Tents are for camping. Canopies may be used for garden parties or outdoor weddings. Grills and crawfish boils are for the backyard. Ladders are for home repair. Banquet tables, folding chairs and blankets might all be seen at an afternoon of polo.
But, add a lashing of caution tape and the press of humanity to bind them all together along the parade route and they become a dangerous, intrusive and infuriating barricade.
Can I also add "illegal"?
I was trying to show my son a great tradition in which I was fortunate enough to grow.
Instead, we could hardly see above all these chaotic barricades, much less get anywhere near the parade to catch any throws. Boobytraps and the danger of "trespass" were everywhere.
I believe that more can be done in regard to this danger to public safety. Moreover, toning down the excess can only enhance this unique tradition which we all have the right to enjoy.
Shawn Adams
Boston
Yes yes this issue has been run into the ground in the local blogosphere but it needs to be addressed by the city before next year's Carnival. The "barricading" of public space for public events has graduated from a mere nuisance to a potentially dangerous situation. It's time to ask for stricter enforcement of rules that will allow everyone to enjoy the spectacle instead of just the squatters.
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