Editor:
I hope (Ladysmith Celebration Committee President) Berry Frech and (Ladysmith Councillor) Steve Arnett are proud of the way they ended the Ladysmith Days ‘Greasy Pole’ contest at Transfer Beach on Saturday, Aug. 1.
The prizes in the event were a single $100 bill and several $50 bills, which were attached to the pole – the hundred at the very top, the 50s midway.
When all the 50s were gone and just the hundred remained, Coun. Arnett said the prize should be moved down the pole, because all the remaining entrants were 12 year-olds.
A young girl, who was climbing the pole, to reach the repositioned prize, was very determined and doing quite well. Everyone was cheering her on, as she rested for a minute, getting ready to continue.
At that point Coun. Arnett stepped in, asking Berry Frech to give the girl some help by moving her up the pole about four inches; then a couple of inches more. Berry Frech even wiped some grease off the pole, helping the girl reach the $100 bill – which I’m sure she would have done on her own.
Coun. Arnett then announced all the money was gone and the contest was over, leaving many young people who had registered and wanted to try the Greasy Pole astounded.
What you taught our youth that Saturday is: It’s okay to cheat your way to big bucks and to ignore the public – regardless of age – to reach your goals. I’m sure many of those who witnessed this act will remember next civic election.
I would also like to know why the pole was not disassembled after the event, if everyone is so concerned about liability? The tarp and foam were removed, but the pole was still up during the fireworks. Who was responsible for that?
Bev Leil
Ladysmith