Tea Party/Parade of Lights - Official Response*

From Councilwoman Sharon Spencer: 

Kathleen,

I understand your feelings. The Parade last night was not conducted by the City, but was conducted by the GV Chamber of Commerce as has been the case for many years.  May I suggest that you share your feelings with  the Chamber as I am sure they would want to know.

Sharron Spencer

From Chamber President RaDonna Hessel: 

Dear Ms. Thompson,

For the last thirty years, the Grapevine Chamber of Commerce has coordinated the Lighted Christmas Parade.  While the committee attempts to be pro-active on maintaining the integrity and safety of this community and family event to celebrate the season, each year the rules are reviewed and amended as new issues and events occur. 

The parade committee is always happy to have a wide variety of clubs and organizations participate in this parade, growing it each year to the delight of those watching from the sidelines.  Unfortunately, this year, one organization whose float  physically met the criteria for the parade, also chose to verbally promote a political statement instead of strictly using it to celebrate the season and spirit of the community.   Given the established rules prior to the event, there was nothing the committee could do to arbitrarily stop them from participating.

The Grapevine Lighted Christmas Parade Committee will review the rules for entry, and develop an appropriate measure to attempt to stop this use of the parade, while not hindering the ability for other organizations from correctly using the parade to support the Christmas Season and the community of Grapevine. 

Your concerns are already being addressed and we appreciate your comments.  We hope that you were able to enjoy the other one hundred plus floats, entries and the many volunteers who made this night possible.

Sincerely,

RaDonna Hessel

President

*Should I hear from others in the city leadership, and I certainly hope to, I will post their responses.