Despite a glitch that could still derail its annual Halloween parade this year, the Harvard Family Association is moving ahead with its plans. The event—geared to kids ages 6 and younger—is set for Saturday, Oct. 24, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on the Common.
Harvard Family Association (HFA) Co-Chairwoman Lindsay Burke told the Press this week that although the loss of the association’s insurance reported in the Sept. 10 issue of the Press has not been corrected, the group is looking for both short- and long-term solutions.
Of immediate concern is the lack of liability insurance for the Halloween parade, which includes activities on the Common. The HFA had hoped to obtain coverage under the auspices of the Parks and Recreation Commission, Burke said, citing similar scenarios in other towns.
To that end, she and HFA Co-Chairwoman Shannon Kinayman met with Parks and Rec Chairwoman Wyona Lynch-McWhite in September, Burke said. They also contacted Town Administrator Tim Bragan.
Parks and Rec’s response was favorable, Burke said. Citing the recreational opportunities for youngsters that the commission sponsors such as the Ski Club, Lynch-McWhite seemed optimistic that the town’s insurance policy, which covers those activities, could cover HFA events as well, Burke said.
But after checking with Town Counsel Mark Lanza, Bragan has said it won’t work. In an interview with the Press this week, Burke said she was unclear about the legal hurdles, but that Bragan and the town’s attorney might not have understood exactly what the HFA was asking for. The group isn’t seeking to partner with Parks and Rec, she explained, but rather to be recognized as a subsidiary, completely under the Parks and Rec’s umbrella.
Burke said she is still hoping that such an arrangement can be worked out. But in the meantime, the HFA is seeking a temporary policy for the upcoming parade.
Halloween parade festivities will begin at 11 a.m and continue until 1 p.m. Gathering at the top of the Common, near Elm Street and the church, the short parade will proceed to the bottom of the Common, across from the General Store, where activities will commence, including games, crafts, and cookie and pumpkin decorating.
Parade participants should come in costume and bring a pumpkin to decorate, Burke said. The event is not limited to HFA members but is free and open to everyone.
