Whether University of Wisconsin students have papers due in the final week of class, presentations to hastily assemble or professors to attempt to appease in the waning hours of the academic year, the Mifflin Street Block Party approaches and their presence is expected.
Since 1969, the annual event has attracted masses of students eager to find a release from the demands of class, employment and the rigors of daily life. And while most return home from the event without tear gas residue on their clothing, and the bonfires have turned to charcoal grills, the history of the event and the experiences resulting from it are a vital component of Badger life.
The 2010 celebration marks the second year of event sponsorship and organization by DCNY PRO.
This year’s inclusion of a second stage of live music and the premiere of a beer garden, the event’s organizers have said, hold promise for entertaining a larger cross-section of area residents, students and out-of-towners alike.
The vast majority of students thoroughly enjoy their experience during the event, but historically, a number of individuals find themselves on the wrong side of the law.
Sgt. Tony Fiore, supervisor of the Madison Police Department’s Community Policing Team, will be heading up much of the enforcement for Saturday’s event.
Along with Dane County sheriff’s deputies, the Madison Fire Department and inspectors will be supervising the event. Enforcement is aimed at creating a safe atmosphere for revelers, Fiore said.
“We really want people to have a good time, but they have to show a level of control and not be a danger to themselves or others,” Fiore said.
Officers, deputies and inspectors will be keeping close tabs on balconies and monitoring whether there is overcrowding, the cause of numerous falls and hospital visits in recent years.
Additionally, if the urge is felt to provide music to one’s guests, officers request the volume be kept at manageable levels. If compliance is not provided, they reserve the right to fine those responsible for the property.
“The sponsor is providing two stages with acts; we want to let them handle the music,” Fiore said. “We want residents to respect the effort and funds put forth by the organizers.”
Ald. Mike Verveer, District 4, who represents the Mifflin Street area, said by far the most common citation issued is for open intoxicants on city property, a fine easily avoided. He also advised residents to take care of their valuables when hosting house parties.
“I encourage residents to think twice about providing cold beverages to strangers,” Verveer said. “Almost every year without fail, I’m told by residents that they’ve had property stolen.”
Information provided by MPD entitled “How NOT to get a ticket from the Madison Police” details the various citations most commonly issued at the Block Party.
Pay close attention.
Among the most grievous and common of violations are underage drinking, a fine of $177. Providing false identification to police officers will land a $429 fine, and procuring alcohol to minors will cost violators $366.
Resist the urge to throw objects from balconies, an offense that entails a $303 citation. This year’s event is slated to have twice the number of restroom facilities, so the $177 fine brought about by public urination can be avoided.
If officers do happen to intervene in any escapades, be nice and be honest because both obstructing a police officer and disorderly conduct can cost up to $429.
Fiore said neither citations nor police enforcement preclude anyone from having a good time Saturday, but it is important to know the consequences of any dangerous or illicit behavior sure to take place. Officers have been given greater discretion in the issuance of citations in recent years as behavior has improved, he added, but this is no reason to take advantage of the slack.
Be safe, have fun, take pictures with a cop, enjoy a mid-afternoon nap if necessary and stay off the sidewalks.
