Thursday, May 3, 2012
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National Mall Concert Preps
National Mall Concert Preps
Sunday, July 3, 2011
FOX 5 News
Robby Matthew and his wife grappled with a map trying to plan their July 4th one day before the big show. "We're trying to figure out what do and which time we have to be there and what time to be there," Matthew says.
The couple flew in from the Caribbean island of Bonaire to see the parade, the concert and the fireworks.
"Lots of things happening!" Matthew laughs.
The U.S. Park Service wants people to take public transportation to the big events on the mall. But be prepared to walk because the Smithsonian Metro stop will be closed.
"I'm going to avoid the mall like the plague," says Adams Morgan resident Jesse Achtenberg. "The crowds, the Metro, getting back on, it's absolutely insane. It's like four million people trying to get back on the metro at the same time."
But others, like Beth Navarro of Gilbert, AZ, say they are going to stake out their spot early and have a picnic. "We're going to sit on grass around the monuments. We're going to make a day of it."
Jon James is the Deputy Superintendent of the George Washington Parkway and says because of "safety concerns with large crowds, no grills, alcohol, glass bottles or personal fireworks are permitted on Park Service Property."
US Park Police Chief Teresa Chambers says you are welcome to bring "coolers and backpacks" but officers stationed at ten entry gates surrounding the National mall will "take a quick look in them to make sure there's no alcoholic beverages or anything like that could harm you or others."
"I have no problem with that," says Matthew. "I have nothing to hide. I'm here to enjoy myself, so whatever you do, just do it and keep going."
Matthew says he's willing to put up with the people and the patrols because he's finally going to see for himself how America throws a birthday bash.
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