After partying on King Street with friends and family this New Year’s Eve and anxiously waiting for the ball on Hotel Northampton to rise, signalling the start of the new year, my granddaughter asked why all the huge Department of Public Works trucks were blockading streets approaching the intersection. I said, “It’s not just for traffic diversion, it’s to let us dance and party safely in the middle of King Street. It’s to prevent some jerk from mowing us down in a car or truck.”

First thing next morning, I woke to the news of the tragic loss of lives in New Orleans, where folks there were similarly partying. I immediately knew I had to write to commend the Northampton Police Department for their foresight on the importance of using this blockading practice for every protest I’ve attended in recent years and during this holiday season.

Being able to party outside and feel free from being targeted is a wonderful freedom. Thank you, NPD.

Carol Owen

Florence