The Parade Has

Gotten Out Of Hand

To the Editor:

In regard to “The Letter Hive” in the September 14 issue of the Bee, I wish to offer my 100 percent endorsement to the comments made by my good friend Marie Sturdevant in her letter to the Bee on September 11. Volunteer marching groups should never be asked to pay a fee, particularly the volunteer firefighters.

While the parade committee did an excellent job this year, I think the parade has gotten out of hand in some areas. I was particularly upset with the Chris Murphy truck which had two men basically shoveling candy out the back and not caring where it went; I think it was excessive.

When the parade was initiated many years ago, it was intended to be a celebration of Labor Day for the people of Newtown by the organizations in Newtown. Once the media published it as the only Labor Day parade in the state, outside organizations wanted to get in which has caused a tremendous increase in cost. I would like to suggest that the parade committee review the situation and possibly reorganize the parade for next year. If I can do anything to help, please let me know.

Sincerely,

Joseph E. Borst

10 Beechwood Drive, Sandy Hook                       September 17, 2012