“They help a lot of people in the community,” said Assistant Parks and Recreation Director Kelly Manning. “They have worked with the city during different disasters. They do a lot of work for people in need, preparing bags with non-perishable items for the homeless. They really try to help those in need in the Roanoke Valley. We wanted to thank them for their contributions to the community.”
Mr. Moseley said this morning, “I feel like it was an honor. We appreciate that kind of support. It’s been a giving community and we are thankful to the good Lord above for all the support we get.”
Mr. Moseley said it will be fitting for the DIRT volunteers to ride on the float with he and his wife. About 20 volunteers are on a list for the various projects DIRT does, he said. “Everything we do we have others helping out.”
(To register visit the Christmas parade website or stop by T.J. Davis)
Councilwoman Suetta Scarbrough forged a friendship with the couple in the aftermath of the 2011 tornado. “They are benevolent. They’re unique to this area.”
The annual Christmas parade begins at 2 p.m. on December 3, starting from Thirteenth Street down Roanoke Avenue where it ends at First Street.
Between 20 to 35 groups have already signed up. The deadline for getting in the parade is November 17.
“I feel like we’ll have a good variety and good participation,” Manning said.
The Elizabeth City State University Marching Band has been invited to return and several high school and middle school bands have committed. They include Roanoke Rapids High School, Chaloner Middle School, North Edgecombe High School, Brunswick, Virginia High School and Weldon High School.
The Sudan clowns and Buccaneers have committed and the city is awaiting word on the return of the Greenville Public Safety Pipes and Drums.
“We want more to participate,” Manning said.
Registration can be made online or a form can be picked up at T.J. Davis, she said.
The parade will also serve as a benefit for Angel’s Closet and registrants are asked to donate two canned goods. Canned good donations will also be accepted at T.J. Davis.
The Christmas parade will be held rain or shine.
Leading up to the parade will be the annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony at Lloyd Andrews City Meeting Hall on Jackson Street at 6 p.m November 30.
Madelyn Caudle will continue a tradition where a youngster gets to flip the switch lighting the tree in Veterans Park.
Before the lighting ceremony there will be refreshments inside Lloyd Andrews and there will be Christmas Carols outside performed by the RRHS chorus.
The tree lighting ceremony has become the traditional lead-in to the parade. “It’s a time to celebrate the spiritual meaning of the season and a time to celebrate our children’s anticipation of the holiday,” Manning said.
