Dear editor,
I am writing in response to negative letters printed recently about the upcoming event in Cumberland, Rock the Block.
First off, I applaud The Waverley and Cumberland Village Works for all the hard work they have done over the years bringing world-class music and helping create a culture that has brought energy and entertainment to the village of Cumberland.
Secondly, I'd like to address the myriad of concerns regarding the street closure and the issue of this being a "for-profit" event. If a business (or anyone, for that matter) would like to hold an event like Rock the Block, there are avenues one must go down to get the necessary permits to hold such an event.
The Waverley has received the proper approval from Cumberland council, and the liquor board to hold such an event.
Nobody seems to have an issue with closing the street for Empire Days or for the number of bike races that are held in Cumberland each year.
These events have become an integral part of the character of Cumberland. They also bring in scores of visitors, which in turn, bring in scores of tourist dollars, and in turn, profit for the organizers and business owners of Cumberland.
Rock the Block is just another creative idea to bring people (and their entertainment dollars) to the village. If street closures for the afore-mentioned events have not created a problem for first responders and the residents of Camp Road before, then there's no reason for it to be a problem now.
It's also a financial risk that the Waverley and CVW are taking putting on this event, but in our society, creating income is the sole purpose of a business to support itself, its employees, and the community at large.
I say bring it on; it's only for one day. Let the music play!
Sean Sullivan,
Royston