2007-04-16-TCC-cancel ltr - Laserfiche WebLink

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To the Lexington Minuteman: This past week, town officials and community organizations took a somewhat unprecedented action of canceling many of the Patriots’ Day activities. For our residents and out-of-town guests who were looking forward to the 232 Anniversary of the Battle of Lexington, the parades and related events, let us share with you the reason we took the actions we did. On Friday, April 13, after reviewing the weather predictions for Sunday and Monday, twenty-five representatives from the community organizations responsible for the Patriots' Day festivities and parades met with Town officials including the Police, Fire, Public Works and the Celebrations Committee to begin to make contingency plans for Patriots’ Day. After a thorough discussion of all options, a decision was reluctantly made to cancel both the morning and afternoon parades. The major factor driving this decision was the safety of participants, especially in view of the forecast for heavy rains and high winds. For example, some marching units faced long drives to Lexington. After arrival, there would be a lengthy exposure of all marching units to the elements before they actually entered the parade ranks. Forecasted high winds would imperil the many flags and banners and their carriers during the two parades. Given the adverse forecast and potential danger, we decided to cancel the parades with suitable advance notice to all parties rather than wait until the last moment. The decision of whether to hold the reenactment of the Battle of Lexington on the Battle Green was deferred until Sunday afternoon when more current weather forecasts would be available. On Sunday, representatives from the Patriots’ Day organizers met again with the commanders from the British regiment and Lexington Minutemen. The clear consensus was that given the weather predicted for early Monday morning it would be extremely difficult to safely conduct the reenactment event. Certain festivities were preserved including indoor ceremonies in Cary Hall for the rd Awards Ceremony, the concert at Hancock Church, the Lions Club 93 Annual Five- Mile Road Race and two of the Pancake Breakfasts. The news media were notified Sunday afternoon and the Town’s website was updated with the scheduled and cancelled events. We regret the cancellation of these long-standing events at which Lexington celebrates its rich history. In view of the ominous weather forecast, however, we had to consider the public safety of participants, guests and attendees. Carl F. Valente, Town Manager Bob Tracey, Chairman Lexington Celebrations Committee April 16, 2007