Note: I used to work for a park slowly in continued development in Manhattan that is five miles along the waterfront of the Hudson River. As a Public Programs Coordinator, yours truly handled anything public related in regards to permitting (athletic facilities, film shoots, photo shoots, weddings, and other small gatherings), and of course, dealing with any questions or inquiries from the public. The following series will present stories, e-mails, phone calls, conversations, interactions, and sights I've seen from the people of New York City in regards to a public park. And yes, these are all real! And are all true!
Welcome to another little snippet of Parks and Recreation.
Here is an e-mail I received that was simply mind boggling. This one not only touches on the skeptical intelligence of our society, but was an indictment of where our country has gone, and where it is headed. Yes, this e-mail is entirely true.
Hi,I would like to bring to focus the new playground for the community down at Pier --. While it is very modern, it lacks accommodating the needs for everyone. My child who happens to be plus-sized, is not able to climb the ladder. I think in a world where children are disabled because of their natural sizes, you should consider electronic elevation, ramps, or even a mechanical riser. With the world today, maybe even an escalator, as kids these days should not be allowed to climb various things that are harmful, and potentially fatal.I know it costs money to make these changes, but think about all of the kids you will be make happy.I look forward to your response, as I plan on stopping by with a formal proposal for further improvements throughout the park, including the Pier -- water park, and some of your tourist areas.Thank you.
Once again, yes this lady was very, very serious in her request. She wants to accommodate, for lack of a better term, overweight kids.
Needless to say, no one has returned her written proposal. Not the mayor's office. Not the park. Not even reasonable parents and civilians throughout the city.
You have to just laugh at "disabled because of their natural sizes".
An escalator on a slide?
What has this world become?