To the Editor:
I would like to make some suggestions to those considering attending this year's Tubestock in the hope that things will proceed more smoothly this year. These comments are in response to some problems in recent years that, if they recur, will place the future of Tubestock in jeopardy. Tubestock is not a Dartmouth event, but rather an Upper Valley event open to all. The College is in no way connected with Tubestock, though students at Dartmouth are naturally welcome to attend.
One particular problem we had last year was with large rafts. If you plan on building a raft, make sure to get it (or its pieces) out of the water. Last year, groups left raft pieces all over the river. If that happens this year, the group(s) will be reported!
This year the authorities will be watching to see whether we can prevent the problems of the last few years and have a safe event. Be aware that the police will not hesitate to make arrests should they feel it necessary. If you observe the suggestions of the Police and Tubestock Security and follow the rules below, we will all have a great time and Tubestock may continue.
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Health and safety are paramount. If you see someone who is endangering themselves or others, please take action. Help them to shore or to somewhere safe. Call in the Tubestock Security, the Norwich Police or the NH Marine Patrol if necessary.
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Tubestock attendees are subject to the laws of Vermont and New Hampshire, including underage drinking and public intoxication. Don't expect the police to ignore violations just because you're at Tubestock.
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Do not obstruct traffic. If you are walking to or from Tubestock, please walk single file so there is room for cars.
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Selling alcohol without a license is illegal in both NH and Vermont.
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Parking is available for a small fee a few hundred yards north of Tubestock, just before (not at) De 'n Ro's Restaurant in Norwich. If you choose to park on River Road, watch for no parking areas and make sure all 4 wheels are off the road (defined by the single line) or you will be towed!
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One swimmer was hit by a boat propeller two years ago and sustained a serious foot injury. Ideally people shouldn't bring motorboats but if they do, they should plan on anchoring for the duration and refrain from trying to cruise through the crowd. Make sure your boat, anchored or not, has a sober captain.
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Please stay towards the Vermont (West) side, allowing a lane on the NH side for passing boaters.
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Trash needs to be disposed of properly, not dumped in the river. Please plan ahead to leave the river as you found it. Most canoeists and anchored boaters are willing to accept trash from tubers. You can also drop trash on the Vermont side at the Norwich boat landing. All attendees are responsible for their own trash.
Because of the past actions of a few, attention is focused on Tubestock as never before. The future of Tubestock is in all our hands. Thanks for your consideration.
