The Virginian-Pilot
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SUFFOLK
The city's Christmas parade is staying put downtown despite a proposal by the city manager to move it to North Suffolk.
The city announced Tuesday that the Dec. 5 parade would remain downtown, beginning at Washington and Main streets and ending at Finney Avenue.
City Manager Selena Cuffee-Glenn told the City Council in July that she was exploring the idea of moving the event to Harbour View.
She presented several reasons supporting the change, including Harbour View's growing population and the fact that downtown hosts a fall parade for Peanut Fest.
The city has several holiday events planned, beginning with a tree-lighting celebration at the Seaboard Station Railroad Museum on Nov. 20 and a "Breakfast with Santa" event Nov. 21 at the East Suffolk Recreation Center.
On Dec. 12, Northern Shores Recreation Center will host a "Lunch with Santa" event, and Bennett's Creek Park will host a free movie with vendors and crafts.
Dave Forster, (757) 222-5563, dave.forster@pilotonline.com
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Who in Northern Suffolk was asking for the parade? The City Manager wanted to move the parade, and I guess she actually looked to see what people were saying before making her decision. Keep the Suffolk parade downtown. Folks out here will go to the parade in Norfolk and spend their dollars shopping and eating there. It's clear that downtown doesn't want our money and our presence.
Merry Christmas to all!
As the Christmas holidays are fast approching, it is interesting to see this issue play itself out, like so many other issues that pit the fast growing North end of town; against the older and slower life-style of the downtown/South end of town. I live in the south rural end of the City and have always found the "Downtown Christmas Parade" to be both enjoyable and a good kick off for the season's spirit. I am happy to see that tradition continue, but also wonder what such an event in the North end of Town would look like... Maybe next year, maybe not...
Merry Christmas to one and all, as we move into the welcome time of cheer and good will to all. It has been a rough year for many and I hope they find comfort in the holidays and family gatherings.