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Sale of alcohol at Robe-Ann during Parkfest being considered
Parkfest spectators might be able to raise a glass of wine to the music or drink a beer during the Robe-Ann Park program under an idea introduced to the Greencastle Park Board Wednesday night.
Suggesting the idea is “exclusively for Parkfest,” and in particular the seven concerts between the opener and season finale which are designated family nights, Park Director Greg Ruark sale of alcohol during the concerts “is something I’ve been thinking about for some time.”
Ruark noted that “ultimately the goal is to get more people into the parks," and that the attraction of enjoying a glass of wine or cup of beer with the music on a summer night just might help do that.
“It presents an opportunity for us to see if it works,” Ruark told the board during its monthly meeting at the park office.
No vote was taken on the proposal Wednesday with Ruark telling the board to think about the idea and talk with people abut the possibility.
The two-hour nature of the Parkfest concerts would likely keep most people from overindulging, it was reasonsed, while Ruark suggested individual sales limits could also be imposed.
The park director explained that he envisions sales being limited to beer and wine. If the idea flies for the 2024 season, it would be re-evaluated at year’s end for possible extension to 2025 and beyond.
“I’m not interested in doing this for any other park event,” Ruark stressed to an audience that included Mayor Lynda Dunbar. “Not the Christmas lights or Celebrate 4. I think it’s an appropriate time to give it a shot. The event itself could use a shot in the arm. It’s a trial, we’ll see if it works.”
Ruark said the Greencastle Civic League members he has talked to “are fine with it.” The Civic League sponsors the annual Parkfest concert series at the Robe-Ann Park bandshell.
Longtime Park Board member Tim Trigg called it “a great idea worth trying.”
“Several people have said,” Trigg continued, “‘The only thing that would make this (the concert atmosphere) more perfect is if I had a glass of wine.’”
The newest board member, Scott Hamilton, pointed out that he doesn’t see “how it’s any different than First Friday,” where spectators routinely carry drinks through the downtown as they enjoy two or sometimes three music stages around the square.
However, Park Board President Cathy Merrell indicated it might not be her cup of tea.
“I’m not saying ‘no,’” she began, “but something in me personally doesn’t think of families in the park and alcohol. I don’t think of the two together.
“But it wouldn’t affect me coming (to Parkfest),” she continued. “I just don’t want anybody not to come because of that,” Merrell added, noting that she and her husband do not drink alcohol.
Ruark responded that he hopes to “create a family atmosphere every night, not just the first night and the last (of Parkfest). That’s why we’re researching playground equipment to put in the lower bowl (southeast o f the bandshell stage).”
Merrell agreed that is a good idea. “I appreciate all of the parameters you’ve put into it,” she told Ruark.
Ruark said he has about a half-dozen businesses interested in using their liquor license at Parkfest.
“I’m not doing it to make a profit,” he stressed, indicating that doesn’t mean he would turn down a percentage of the profits for the park. “I’m in it to get people in the park.”
Ruark suggested a March decision on the issue. The Park Board will next meet at 6 p.m. Wednesday, March 6 at the park office in Robe-Ann Park.
President Merrell, Trigg, Hamilton and Doug Hutchison were in attendance for the 90-minute meeting along with Ruark, Mayor Dunbar, City Councilor Stacie Langdon, Assistant Park Director Chrysta Snellenberger and Recreation Director Ashley Crady.
Other park-related matters discussed Wedneday will be included in a future story.