To the editor:
Last weekend, Cape Ann was bathed in bright sunshine and swaddled in warm fresh air. Such a delight after the gloomy days of winter.
Local shops and restaurants enjoyed an unexpected boom in business and the Boulevard and Stage Fort were swarmed by happy people.
Unfortunately, our beaches remained gated, causing illegal parking problems everywhere.
In Manchester, the residents complained that "outsiders" were parking in their spots! Seems to me to be a cold way to welcome all those who drove up for a walk on the beach and to open their wallets to local businesses.
The trickle-down effect from these guests can only help local people. If those who came over the bridge stopped at Destino's for a sub, or Lone Gull for a great cup of coffee, wandered through Main Street shops, bought a book, filled their tanks, or sat together for a meal, some one of us gained a reprieve from an economy that is down right scary.
Couldn't we open the lots with a caveat to enjoy our beaches at your own risk?
Couldn't we show the rest of the world that Gloucester is beautiful the whole year through, not just Memorial Day until September?
Isn't it possible that these day trippers, after having their spirits warmed by our fair city in the dead of Winter, would be more apt to return with their wallets during the Summer?
Mayor Kirk, can we take down the "Closed" sign and welcome some paying customers?
OONA O'NEILL
Revere Street, Gloucester
