World's First Umbrella Reading Largely Unnoticed

"Mommy! Who's that strange looking man by the fountain?" asked young Jimmy.

"Don't look at him young Jimmy, you might provoke him," said Mommy.

"Is he one of those commie hippie weirdos that Daddy says are turning the world into poo?"

"Yes, he is, dear. Now hurry, we don't want to miss target practice."

Yep, ees tough to be a writer in Fredericton, man. But that's OK. I had the rapt attention of three beautiful woman of indeterminate ancient origin, and I'm certain I saw a stoney smile or two as I read about them coming to life and spreading havoc throughout the downtown core of Freddie Beach.

Next on the agenda ... a story about Pan at the top of the fountain in front of City Hall.