Wallenda still working out legal kinks for tightrope walk

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It’s a murky case of high-wire malarkey.

Sneed is told that tightrope daredevil Nik Wallenda, who refuses to use a safety net, is still working out the legal kinks to conduct his Chicago skyscraper shuffle Nov. 2.

◆ To wit: Not only does state law prohibit an aerial act without a net more than 20 feet off the ground — but Sneed learned Wednesday that Wallenda does not have a permit yet to navigate from the Marina City west tower across the Chicago River to the Leo Burnett skyscraper, and then between both Marina City towers.

Mary May, spokeswoman for the city Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events, now tells Sneed:

“The City is aware of the State law and we are currently in contact with the State. Permission to utilize the buildings was just recently finalized . . . This includes assisting the Wallenda Team and the Discovery Network in obtaining the necessary special event and film permits — but no permits have yet been issued by the City.

“The City and other agencies will continue to work closely with the organizers concerning any and all safety related concerns, including the Aerial Exhibitors Safety Act.”

Is this like putting the horse before the cart?

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