REGARDING THE widespread media coverage about the Beverly Farms/Prides Crossing Horribles Parade and the pregnant Gloucester teens: The various reports have read far more into the situation than what exists. There are only two issues:
The appropriateness of the subject of pregnant Gloucester teens. Yes, while the floats were insensitive, and the universal theme of teenage pregnancy is disturbing, they did fall within the definition of a Horribles parade (irony or satire of current events).
The impudicity of the floats. Yes, it is a Horribles parade, but it is also a family parade. The floats were not within respectability of a public event.
All other debate, such as socioeconomic factors, clouds the real focus.
B. A. McGEE
Beverly Farms
© Copyright 2008 Globe Newspaper Company.
