To the editor:

We’ve always known that many Bristol neighborhoods are very friendly. It’s one of those things that makes Bristol a wonderful place to live.

Every now and then, though, the excuses to party can get a bit outlandish. In this case, I suspect calling this recent celebration a bit “outhouse-lish”.

Rhode Island Energy has been working on Aaron Avenue on and off for nearly a year. The rumor around the neighborhood the end of last week was that they are “done…for now”. This respite from the trench digging, dust and detours brought out a very surprising reaction when some neighbors were greeted by a very colorful appurtenance.

As you can see from the photos included as the day went on, this ordinary porta potty was transformed into the venue for a small multi-family gathering.

Our local porta-potty party planner, whose name is protected for fear of being overwhelmed by future business, was thrilled by the turnout. Some Bristol notables had great fun. Being distracted by something becoming more important (the Kentucky Derby) the party was over.

For the next few mornings, we a greeted each other by our new landmark. We watched the varied reactions of people walking. What did they think was going on. Oh well, sorry they missed the festivities.

As of this moment, while I take time to memorialize this happening, I can’t help but wonder will someone come by and declare squatters right. Better yet, when will Rhode Island Energy’s contractor come by and claim what is rightfully theirs?

So, the moral of the story, appropriately written in Latin: Carpe momento latrina in medio plateae.

Gotta love Bristol.

Editor’s note: Craig Evans reported on Wednesday morning that the porta-john has since been removed, confirming reports that someone would ultimately have to be a party pooper.

Craig Evans
Aaron Avenue