A blessing of the configuration of downtown Iola is that it lends itself to public gatherings. The big shaded lawn plopped in the center of the square is especially conducive to functions.
If we were smart, we’d have events on the square scheduled every weekend.
So it came as a surprise when Allen County commissioners on Tuesday denied organizers of the upcoming Farm-City Days the privilege to convert a section of the lawn into a beer garden while bands perform on a nearby stage.
The same concept proved very successful last year in Riverside Park during the inaugural Portland Alley Pedalfest. Its beer garden was a cordoned off section of the lawn fronting the Community Building in which the sale and enjoyment of 3.2 beer could occur.
Stationed just outside the area — which was monitored by personnel checking IDs — were food vendors.
Live music, beer and brats. It just doesn’t get any better.
And no, nothing bad happened.
Truth is, people don’t abuse such privileges.
And if a beer garden enhances the experience for some, why say no?
We know, we know.
The big “L.”
Liability.
Sure as the sun will rise, some minor will imbibe, get in a car and tear through the throng, strewing body parts across the courthouse lawn.
Yep, we’re asking for trouble with a capital “T” right here in River City.
Or we could trust people to act responsibly and let the successful Farm-City Days take on an added dimension.
