I walked from 84th to 79th Streets as the parade (it was mostly noise, not much of a parade, since I saw one float followed by many vehicles with speakers blaring) as it was ending. My ears are still ringing.
I did meet up with Councilmember Dromm, and also the policewoman in charge of the parade, Ms. Irizarry (I don't know her title). I could not communicate with our councilmember because of the noise, but I met Ms. Iriziarry after it had passed by. She said, of course, that they had a permit, however, NO ONE (OF COURSE) WAS MEASURING THE DEAFENING DECIBELS OF THIS EVENT. The organization responsible for this event should never be allowed to hold it on 37th Avenue again. Or anywhere for that matter. I explained that the noise disrespected our community (they were "parading" in a residential area) and that her "report" on the parade must include the unnecessary and deafening sound that emanated from the vehicles and speakers that paraded down 37th Avenue. Where in New York City would something like this be acceptable?
If you feel likewise, you need to contact:
1. 115th Precinct Community Affairs: 718 533 2010
2. Your councilmember's office: Dromm: 718 803 6373
ddromm@nyc.council.gov Ferraras-Copeland: 718 651 1917
CD21invites@council.nyc.gov3. Community Board #3: 718 458 2707
communityboard3@nyc.rr.comThe police department ultimately approves every parade permit. Parade organizers that disrespect the communities they march in should not receive a permit the following year. We must make sure that the 115th Precinct and Ms. Irizarry accurately report on today's parade so it does not receive a permit in 2017.