ONE AFRICAN-AMERICAN'S VIEW
3-18-09
THE STENCH OF JUBILEE
It is evident that the Bridge Crossing Jubilee has become too large for its original organizers to put on. Please read the letter which follows these comments from a former Selmian, an African-American school teacher. To us this is a reasoned commentary on what is wrong with Jubilee as well as some positive things about the weekend.
The Mayor has estimated that the event will cost the City taxpayers $70,000.00 in overtime for public safety, public works and other city employees. THERE IS NO WAY THE CITY WILL RECEIVE ANYWHERE NEAR $70,000 IN TAX REVENUE FROM THE WEEK-END. Additionally, city government is having to bear the brunt of criticism from business owners on Water Avenue who were left with trash, garbage, filth, and stench from what took place at Jubilee on Water Avenue. Fortunately, there are pictures available of the filth and mess left on Water Avenue as well as the grease which was poured down drains or simply left in the gutters. THIS MUST STOP!
The letter writer suggests a professional events planner be hired by Jubilee organizers. That sounds like a good idea to us. It would also be helpful if the events ran on a schedule which was adhered to by speakers and organizers. Finally, BECAUSE CITY GOVERNMENT AND TAXPAYERS ARE BEARING THE BRUNT OF THE EXPENSES, city government MUST have more input about what goes on during the Bridge Crossing Jubilee. It could be a huge economic impact for the city if it were marketed and produced correctly. AS IT PRESENTLY EXISTS, IT IS JUST COSTING EVERYONE MONEY and is leaving a stench on Water Avenue and in the views of many people.
PLEASE READ THE REVIEW OF JUBILEE WHICH FOLLOWS:
