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Pocono News Section
Williamsport Celebrates Mardi Gras
Williamsport Celebrates Mardi Gras - Friday, February 20, 2009 at 5:44PM EST
Reported by: Jeremy Deebel
Friday, Feb 20, 2009 @ 05:44pm EST
Williamsport, Lycoming County-
It’s that time of year again! They’re breaking out the beads as the Mardi Gras celebration rolls into Billtown. The party gets underway Friday night.
We’re told that even the bitterly cold weather won’t keep the revelers away. And local police say they just want everyone to be safe and have fun.
The city’s two-night Mardi Gras celebration is expected to bring thousands of revelers downtown.
Police Chief Greg Foresman noted, “Pretty much common sense will tell people what’s allowed and what’s not allowed. Obviously flashing and things like that like in New Orleans is not going to be accepted.”
Party-goers are urged to cast a $1 vote for the Mardi Gras king or queen. All the money raised goes to charity.
Queen candidate Melissa Cowles is campaigning for little Hudson Rinker.
Cowles explained, “He will be two next month. He has neuro blastoma cancer. So we are raising money for his family for medical costs.”
New this year will be an open container area spreading down Fourth Street from Market to Hepburn. Patrons 21 and older will be able to consume draft beers outside in this area only.
Foresman warned, “People are going to be carded. We’re going to make sure individuals in the area are over the age of 21.”
Anyone drinking alcohol is urged to designate a sober driver. Above all, police say they want everyone at Mardi Gras to be safe, and have fun.
Foresman added, “Have fun, have a good time, enjoy yourself, and do it respectfully.”
The Mardi Gras parade will be held Saturday at 4pm along 4th Street. And you can check out the fireworks displays
Friday and Saturday night at 10pm.
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