Extreme Esplanade Security Should Be Re-Thought

Going to the Boston Landmarks Orchestra concert on Wednesday? Better not bring anything: "Per regulations put in place by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, which owns the DCR's Hatch Shell, the Boston Landmarks Orchestra’s concert series in front of the Hatch Shell will have enhanced security in place this year. The DCR and State Police will create 4 entrances to the site. One will be for staff only. One will service people coming to the Esplanade from the Charles Street Subway Station and the other two will provide access for people coming over the Arthur Fiedler Bridge from the direction of Arlington Street. All audience members will need to go through a bag check. An Express Line will be available for people with no bags. The DCR and State Police will not allow the following items: coolers with wheels, backpacks, glass containers, alcohol, firearms, or grills." Isn't this a bit of an over-reaction? And compare this lockdown on the Esplanade to the "Outside the Box" concerts on the Common, where there are no restrictions at all. It's these sort of things that diminish the credibility of public safety personnel.