Every Who Down in Whoville Liked
ChristmasSt. Patrick’s Day a lot…
But the Grinch,Who lived just north of Whoville, Did NOT!
Recently the City of Raleigh decided to no longer give the Raleigh St. Patrick’s Day Parade free resources and despite being around since 1983 this year’s parade may be the last. It is almost like the story of Whoville and the How the Grinch Stole Christmas. From this concept came the parade theme of How the Grinch Stole the St. Patrick’s Day Parade. Obvious references to the Who’s of Whoville or MacRaleigh-ville in this case were everywhere and even an inside joke from the Grand Marshall who was a participant in the first parade was integrated with a cow head. The sentiment was clear – the evil Grinch is taking away something special to many in the city. This created an atmosphere where the rain cloud wasn’t the only thing hanging over people’s heads. Regardless this year’s parade was festive and the long legacy started in 2006 was continued by BobG and the crew winding through the streets downtown.
I thought the theme was well executed and while the Grinch is very apropos perhaps the story of The Ant and the Grasshopper is more so. The parade has celebrated many things while never preparing for the eventual day when they may need resources to carry themselves forward. In a busy downtown area with many events vying for street time is seems unfortunate that St. Patrick was never prepared to compete.
I hope the Ants save this Grasshopper but in the end maybe it goes the same way we’ve seen many institutions in the City over the past few years. Raleigh is evolving and in evolution what survives is important but what dies to make way for new growth is equally important. If this was the last parade I appreciate all you’ve done for Raleigh over the years. Having been both a participant and spectator I can say I enjoy being on both sides. If you are saved by the Ants – I hope the lesson prevents this from ever being a threat real or imagined again.
