Considering that amid much controversy, students were left guessing when the official Mifflin Street Block Party would be until April 22, the end result was a testament to the understanding developed between the city, police and partygoers.
Mayor Dave Cieslewicz, the Madison Police Department, students and Ald. Mike Verveer, District 4, should be commended for creating an enjoyable and safe party by switching to April 30. Although the change of date should have been made months instead of days before the start of the party, it did avert a possible catastrophe between police and students.
Conflict between students and the police was minimal and similar to past years, with only 225 arrests this year. Police were more stringent during the beginning hours of the party, but students should have expected this. We are pleased to note that with 125 Madison police staff and 15,000 to 20,000 partiers, there were no felony arrests or major disturbances. Intoxicated students were able to approach police and even to get a picture with them.
With the success of the party on April 30 in mind, students should refrain from excessive partying next weekend. Hopefully, the thriving relationship between city officials, police and students can be maintained.
