Turf war for prime parade spots in Arlington Heights

July 3, 2007 (WLS) -- In suburban Arlington Heights, some people are already staking out places to view Wednesday's Fourth of July parade. That is causing conflicts because some people are setting up camp on parkways.

Residents of Arlington Heights prepare for their Fourth of July parade by reserving their favorite spots. They rope off their parkways if they live on the parade route but if they don't live on Dunton Avenue, they put down tarps or blankets or anything else in any available spot. The only problem is the parade's growing popularity. "The first year we moved in we had to get up at six in the morning, the day of the parade, to put things out," said parade route homeowner Jackie Balogh. "But now we're putting things out two days before the parade or else you don't have your own parkway at all."

"It's just kind of over the top it seems to me," said Fr. Bill Zavaski. "I'm just surprised someone doesn't take the blankets. Ha, ha, ha. That's what fascinates me."

It has turned into a bit of a friendly conflict between those who don't live here but do reserve spots and those who feel they should be able to rope off their own parkway for families and friends.

"We decided to reserve the space in front of our house to accomodate our guests," said Sharon Scharringhausen. "We having 250 guests."

The Village of Arlington Heights realizes it could be a growing problem with people reserving their spots earlier in the week so they are going to do a study. One area the village can research is how rude some people can be during the parade.

"Last year for instance I walked into my kitchen and I said who are you," said parade route homeowner Pete Lippert. "She said who are you and she said I'm just here to use the bathroom. In my house!"

On Wednesday, it is reserved seating only or standing room only. 10 a.m.

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