AS A long-standing member of Froggy Carr, I want to thank you for bringing our story to the people in Philadelphia. ("Frogs croak rare apology," Stu Bykofsky column, Jan. 7.)
As you well know, we only have 100-plus members in the club. What we have done in the last 25 years is allowed others who have no other club affiliation to march with us to enjoy a day in the sun as a Philadelphia Mummer. Without this gesture from the Frogs there would be over 500 "stragglers" (a term of endearment for Mummers without a club affiliation) the city would have to contend with on Broad Street. We attempt to bring structure to the parade (although not always successfully) and provide the city and spectators with some semblance of order.
As you mentioned, the Frogs get a soiled reputation for some inexcusable behavior on Broad Street or other parade routes. I assure you, very little if any of that behavior is due to the true members in the club. However, we understand the responsibility is all ours and will continue to strive to get it right. I think Captain Joe Renzi took a big step this year in apologizing for what went wrong.
Here's hoping for a prosperous and successful year for all in 2013.
Mike Bachich
South Philadelphia
A day to just relax
I loved your analysis of the parade. ("Mumm's the word," Stu Bykofsky column, Jan. 2.) My husband and I were there for the first two hours of the comics only. The many bishops and nuns depicted could potentially offend the many Roman Catholics in our city, but I think most attendees relax their sensitivities for the day, as you recommend.
Mummery - especially the comics - keep alive the ancient feasts of the Fool King. It's the one day in the year when the Fool gets to boss around the royals, elites, lords and affiliated hangers-on. What a glorious gift to experience and a touchstone to something ancient, primal, fun and fully present in the real world. Virtual reality takes a day off. Most people from out of town have no idea that the parade isn't "organized" by anybody, but corralled. I love that each element (each club, idea, theme) exists "out of its own will to be."
Liz Matt
Cinnaminson, N.J.
Another parent's
Hollister horror
I just read your article about Hollister and all I can say is AMEN! ("Dad fights to survive Club Hollister," Solomon Jones column, Jan. 8.) This is what I've been dealing with for the last year. My son is 12, and though he isn't asking to go there, I do shop in there for T-shirts for him (sadly, that's all I can/want to spend, and they need to be on clearance.)
I know my day is coming where it won't be a choice for me, but rather a demand. I had to LOL since I feel ancient in there. I can't see or hear anything, my sense of smell is destroyed, and I understand why parents pay the high prices, they'll do anything to get out of there.
Anyway, just wanted you to know you made me laugh, and I'm glad I'm not alone in the war against the "tweens" (mine are 12 and 8)
Christine Hood