Jon Frings: one person's freedom can often be another man's tyranny
August 27, 2002
Just a few comments on the acrimony apparent on some of the comments from
Seaver,
Baxandall et al. It seems both sides have some valid
points.
Although comments like Mr. Seavers are often dismissed as the rantings of
an angry crackpot, frankly he speaks much truth in regards to the current
state of freedom in America. I do not agree with him though in his criticism
of Riverfest (Waterfest) or even the EAA. I live very near to the EAA and
though it can at times be somewhat annoying I also realize that Oshkosh is
no longer the sleepy little town it was thirty years ago. The fact that the
city has at least made an effort to bring some culture to it can only be a
good thing. Mr.
Seaver made the comment that Oshkosh is home to more "morons
per square inch than anywhere," or something to that effect, would have
even
more credence if the city pursued a policy of discouraging such events.
Close mindedness in my view is an outward indication of ignorance and the
stubborn rejection of new things out of the routine is yet further evidence
of ignorance. Incidentally these events have been going on for many years
now and are not new.
As to freedom, one person's freedom can often be another man's tyranny. I
don't enjoy putting up with the added traffic problems of the EAA, but I
also realize that in any city that has grown there is invariably going to be
some inconveniences. There are also benefits. They may not always be
monetary but then one cannot put a price tag on everything.
As to Waterfest, it is a real asset to Oshkosh, it proves that even a
sleepy little rivertown can bring in some decent culture from around the
country (at least some of the music, like Little Feat and a few others. Hey
it's better than nothing. If anything the city needs to pursue some of its
planning regarding downtown redevelopment hopefully with some entertainment
spots with a variety of things for everyone. People need to be drawn back to
the central city and not driven away by too over eager police anxious to
arrest everyone for DUI. We need to loosen up a bit, otherwise all the
effort in redevelopment of the downtown will be for naught. Appleton is a
place I have cited before in regards to this topic. They have lots of
nightlife particularly on the weekends and it seems their downtown is
thriving.
If anything Oshkosh needs to toss out it's excessively conservative
attitude and get with the program.
--Jon Frings