On today's Valley Voices page, Steven J. Graham and Jon Rooker make a case for why cage fighting is an acceptable type of event to be held at Woodward Park.
The discussion about whether Woodward Park is an appropriate venue is short. As long as proper city policies are followed by the individuals putting on the MMA displays, they should be allowed.The city cannot and should not discriminate against such events. While it is understandable that some may not like such events, there are also many out there who don't care for Shakespeare.
I thought about all of this as I did my weekly long run this morning, which started in the park. As I ran, I noticed how close the "Shakespeare in the Park" venue is to the Rotary Amphitheater -- pretty darn close.
I think that better planning must happen before two so-different events are held that near each other.
In many ways, both big and small, the park has changed over the past few years, and that's bound to cause some growing pains in our community, as we adjust to the different uses for the park.
As a runner, I certainly enjoy the trails that have been added. It's nice that so many walkers, runners and cyclists have these features.
Honestly, I've never been in the Rotary Amphitheater. I've never gotten over the grudge that its construction obliterated what used to be my favorite little quiet corner of the park.
Earlier in the week, while training on Killer Hill, I noticed some of the changes that have been made in the park for the BMX track and the disc golf course. Really, as long as the hill isn't obstructed, was that really a part of the park that ever got that much use before those features were added?
The authors of the piece in today's paper say "There may be additional discussion about whether Ralph Woodward would have wanted such events to occur here, but that is a subject for another day."
But I think that's what's got people so riled up about this, and I think it's an integral part of the discussion, not a subject for another day. If someone donates such a large piece of property, the major portion of his estate, to provide a regional park and bird sanctuary for the community, I think you have to consider whether future uses of the park are compatible with that intent.
I have not been to the park in a few years since Gail had a get together there with her daughter Lisa but I think it should stay the way it was because it was beautiful. If Mr. Woodward had a vision then the city should keep that vision. It should be a place of serenity.
You can debate intent but my experience has been that once I give something away...I've given it away and my intent is of no importance.
I would like to thank each of you for your responses.
Then, address the comment posted by Lisa Boyles. I am in agreement that it would be nice if the original intent of the gift, by Mr. Woodward was put to its' intended use. At this time, it does not appear the Park's uses completely reflect those desires. Many events and current uses may fall outside of his intent. Selectively picking MMA events, while allowing less controversial events would be discrimination based on the will of a vocal minority, rather than Mr. Woodward's intent. Besides, who says Mr. Woodward would not have liked MMA?
Jackie Krage also appeals to our since of right and wrong. There is a part of me that agrees, and if the Park was to run in accordance with Mr. Woodward’s intentions, I would have to agree. But to selectively apply that standard on a limited basis, while allowing other uses contrary to his desires, that is where I disagree with banning MMA from the Park.
But, Brian Murray really sums up the truth of the situation by pointing out it was a gift, given to a City. Now the Park is within the control and ownership of a governmental entity. The gift is given, the rules are governed on a Constitutional basis, and if all the permits are in order, there should not be any "content" based discrimination against its use as an MMA venue. By looking at the overwhelming turnout, MMA is something the public wants and an appropriate location as well.