Stalag on the National Mall

Gasoline prices. Gigantic oil company profits. Foreign tax credits. Intangible drilling costs. These were going to be the topic today with the Congressional Democrats seeking to make political hay by berating large oil companies and a hearing in the Senate Finance Committee later this week to examine the taxation of these behemoth companies. However, I noticed something in Washington today that is even more outrageous.

I was driving down Constitution Avenue along the National Mall this morning, a slow but lovely drive past the Federal Reserve with its two guards out front, the Lincoln Memorial with the huge pensive Linky inside, the Reflection Pool, site of many an historic gatherings.  What did I see? The National Mall is all being fenced off. There are incredibly long lines of wood fences. The fence must be 10 feet high. The fences looks like they were intended to keep Seal Team Six at bay. 

Apparently, the Park Service has enclosed the National Mall's open spaces to protect the grass. Yes, the grass. Outrageous! Fire the National Park Service. Get a new team in there. Who thought of this bonehead idea?

If the grass needs protection, then why erect a barrier akin to the Great Wall of China. Wouldn’t an 18-inch wire barrier do? How about a “keep off the grass sign”? This Mall now looks like Stalag 17.  Twenty five million visitors use the National Mall every year. Now they are being treated like cattle, except unable to graze. The “peoples park” is no more. Sunbathers, picnickers and ball gamers not allowed. Run away. Go elsewhere before the Soylent Green people scoopers come in and deposit you in a garbage truck.

I am all for the grassy area. I like grass. I have some in my front yard. However, erecting these huge barriers seems like overkill, another example of government over zealousness. Let’s have this beautiful park but let the taxpayers, the citizens walk where they want and enjoy it. As President Reagan said “ Mr. Secretary, tear down those walls”