Beach Altercation

[jd]

So, I just returned from a fabulous weekend in Seagrove. Of course the beach was packed out...which is a good thing since it indicates the oil spill isn't scaring folks away.
But as I was relaxing on Saturday morning, I witnessed an altercation between two other groups of vacationers concerning umbrella positioning. Here is how it went down:
Group A got there around 9:30 and set up "camp" next to me. Around 11:30, Group B arrived and set up directly in front of ( and I mean, RIGHT in front of) Group A. The Group A leader approached B camp and asked, "Are you planning to stay there all day?" (Duh!) Group B leader kinda puffed up and says, "Yeah...is there a problem?" Pretty sure he already knew what the problem was...Group A guy says (nicely) " Could you move down a bit...we can't see the ocean. Group B guy proceeds to let him know what he thinks of this request in an agressive manner complete with F-bombs, threats to his face, and what have you. Group A guy, not to be outdone, fires back just as loudly and rudely. My and my husbands heads swiveled back and forth between the two foes for several minutes as they continued to see who could be the most obnoxious and loud. Finally Group B conceded and moved their camp over a couple of feet, with their fearless leader still shouting sarcastic remarks all the while. Boy, did he love that F-bomb!!!!
So....even though there was some entertainment value for us, I wonder who was in the right? I think Group A was right. There was plenty of space for B to set up so that they weren't right in front of anyone. Just seems the considerate and friendly thing to do....

 

[scooterbug44]

Group A was definitely in the right, though could have handled it better considering it was a family environment. Group B has no manners or sense of appropriate behavior.

Plenty of sand for everyone, no need to behave in that manner.

 

[GoodWitch58]

reminds me of the same people who sit directly in front of us in an empty-except-for-us movie theater, and proceed to talk...chew, move, through the entire movie.

We usually just move - it's not worth the effort to discuss as long as there are plenty of seats. Would be different on the beach though with chairs, coolers, towels etc to move.

I don't understand the lack of consideration some people display.

 

[Em]

Sounds like both Parties A and B are in desperate need of a vacation.

 

[Gidget]

I think group A was right but maybe the approach was all wrong. "Hey buddy - you'd really be doing us a great favor if you'd move down a bit so we can continue with our view and we'd be willing to help you carry your things over a few feet." And then a huge thank you would have been in order. That might have gone over better than what he said. Some people are truly not aware of what is going on right under their noses!

G

 

[Gidget]

And I meant to say sorry that you had to witness that. No fun at all. I hate confrontations even if they are not mine.

 

[jd]

And I meant to say sorry that you had to witness that. No fun at all. I hate confrontations even if they are not mine.

Agreed, Gidget. Although the first guy was fairly nice about it, he could have been nicer. And since I wasn't involved in the fight, it was kind of entertaining to watch!!! ;-) I know...I'm being bad!!!!! :roll:

 

[ameliaj]

Do you think there is any remote possibility that they will read this thread and recognize themselves?

 

[Matt J]

Group B was in the wrong for setting up directly in front of someone and based on the quick escalation there may be more to the story that wasn't witnessed on the beach. I think in the long run if someone did that to me and then was completely rude I would move my party.

 

[Desso]

People rarely recognize themselves, when they are presented in an unflattering light. And yes it would have been nice if.... and maybe they should have....on any other day.... When you go to a crowded beach on a Memorial Day weekend you are not guaranteed an unobstructed view of the water. On the other hand, you are also not guaranteed to keep your teeth if you have a smart-ass, foul mouth.