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Access Atlanta > Blog > Archives > 2008 > February > 07 > Entry
WSB cancels July Fourth Parade
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
After nearly 50 years, WSB-TV is discontinuing its annual “Salute 2 America” July 4 parade. The family-friendly festival of floats, marching bands, balloons, TV stars and military personnel annually wound its way through the streets of downtown for 47 years.
Instead, the Atlanta ABC network affiliate plans to expand its metro area coverage on the patriotic holiday this year to include more geographically diverse July 4 celebrations.
“When the parade began, Atlanta was a very small town and now our coverage goals are very different,” explained WSB-TV general manager Bill Hoffman in an interview with the AJC on Thursday. “We’re trying to broaden our coverage over the July Fourth holiday.”
Added Channel 2 program director Art Rogers via a statement: “As a native Atlantan, I’ve personally witnessed the incredible growth of the metro area. Our celebration coverage plan will reach out to these fast-growing communities and capture the true spirit of these celebrations.”
Hoffman conceded that presenting the parade in state-of-the-art high definition television — as WSB has in recent years — is also an expensive proposition. Hoffman also cited declining ratings for the annual parade.
“In a county like Gwinnett, especially, people are soon going to have a new baseball stadium in their backyard,” explained Hoffman. “They also have many, many holiday celebrations closer to home. Perhaps, not as many people want to pack up the family in the car, drive into the city, look for parking and stand out in the heat.”
Hoffman says that WSB realizes that some viewers will be disappointed that one of their favorite holiday traditions is going away but “we’re lucky that we have so many great civic activities to enjoy on July Fourth and our hope is that viewers take advantage of the many other celebrations scheduled throughout the metro area.”
The cancellation of WSB’s parade is the second Fourth of July holiday tradition that is being altered this year. Earlier, due to drought conditions in Piedmont Park, Peachtree Road Race officials were faced with the challenge of finding a new location this summer for the end of the race.
What are your thoughts on the end of the “Salute 2 America” parade? Will you miss it?
If you have a tip, call 404-526-2749. Or fax 404-526-5509. Or e-mail: buzz@ajc.com.
Comments
Commenting is now closed for this entry.
By atlquest
February 7, 2008 3:17 PM | Link to this
Farewell…
By Beth
February 7, 2008 3:20 PM | Link to this
It’ll be weird not to have the parade — it’s been around ever since I was a kid. But I understand the logic, and think that it’s a good idea. I mean, c’mon, this isn’t small town Georgia, or even mid-size city Georgia. This is the greater Atlanta area — which has really become a conglomeration of cities and communities that have their own traditions and atmosphere. Breaking up coverage among these different communities is a good way to be more inclusive and accommodating to the changing face of the Atlanta region — good job to WSB for recognizing this shift and for honoring it.
By Tom
February 7, 2008 3:22 PM | Link to this
Are you also canceling all the African American parades/celebrations? How about the gay celebrations? Have you joined the communist party yet, or maybe converted to Islam? Typical Atlanta, and not unexpected, but sad.
By Peggy Plant
February 7, 2008 3:27 PM | Link to this
Sorry, folks, but this sucks big time! Are we still allowed to remember our own country (the United States of America, just in case you’ve forgotten). I’ll be happy to congratulate whatever other country which is deserving, but the 4th of July is our own holiday and must be recognized and applauded right here! It’s like anyone grabs my personal birthday even though such person(s)needs or deserved it. I WANT MY USA HOLIDAY BACK NOW!
By dennis
February 7, 2008 3:27 PM | Link to this
WELL SAID TOM. NOTHING FURTHER TO ADD.
By emack06
February 7, 2008 3:30 PM | Link to this
Tom, you sound like a dumbazz…what African American parade?…I lived in Atlanta over 10 years and I have not yet witness an African America Parade. The other parades you mention are sponsored by totally different entities and its not up to WSB to cancel someone elses parade. As usual, a dumbazz response by some racist idiot who has no clue. WSB is probably having financial issues that prevent them from continuing to sponsor the celebration
By Ricky
February 7, 2008 3:33 PM | Link to this
tom you are a racist Why does evrything always have to lead to race and religion?
By Ricky
February 7, 2008 3:34 PM | Link to this
tom you are a racist Why does evrything always have to lead to race and religion? You too dennis, if you dont like it move to another state.
By sissy boi
February 7, 2008 3:34 PM | Link to this
Since they’re moving Pride to July 4th weekend they should have the parade on the 4th (Fri) instead of the 6th.
wrg
By Danny Schwefler
February 7, 2008 3:35 PM | Link to this
This is still AMERICA. We are Americans, well most of us. There are a whole lot people who love this country and want to celebrate it’s heritage and history and independence. It is a sad day for you because it is the beginning of the end of WSB. I will never tune you in again.
By logic
February 7, 2008 3:36 PM | Link to this
emack06, it is you who is the dumbazz…not to mention ignorant. Way to go Tom, all too true!
By Ricky
February 7, 2008 3:36 PM | Link to this
tom you are a racist Why does evrything always have to lead to race and religion? You too dennis, if you dont like it move to another state.
By MarLee
February 7, 2008 3:37 PM | Link to this
GOOD ONE TOM! I vote for you for President!
By D
February 7, 2008 3:37 PM | Link to this
YES! move it and a new stadium to anywhere outside of I-285 and we’ll have a town, events and sports for everyone! make it common sense planning with parking and traffic in mind, with street hustlers discouraged. the new Atlanta outside of Atlanta looks like it will be better and have a better future than the inner Atlanta that has been too inclusive, too inept and too corrupt for too long, gonna bite ‘em the butt with no one to blame but themselves.
By rhall
February 7, 2008 3:37 PM | Link to this
Sounds more like political correctness to me. I especially like the reference to the hassle for Gwinnetians to pack up and go into the city for a parade. Try to get out of the Mall of Ga after the fire works!!! It takes 45 minutes to get home…about 3 miles from the Mall! Lets bring back Freak Nik!
By Keith
February 7, 2008 3:37 PM | Link to this
What’s next … a global inclusive world peace day ?? I prefer true freedom that our founding fathers knew of and fought for. There is still a sovereign God, the Lord Jesus Christ, and absolute truth whether people wish to believe it or not … Protect freedom, honor the US Constitution and our sovereignty … not further promote an evil new world order …
By Roy
February 7, 2008 3:38 PM | Link to this
Typical Atlanta entities…just not that patriotic anymore. Have they joined the Communist Party yet, or maybe converted to Islam? Typical Alanta, but not unexpected. So glad that I moved out into the boonies in 1975.
By Roy
February 7, 2008 3:38 PM | Link to this
Typical Atlanta entities…just not that patriotic anymore. Have they joined the Communist Party yet, or maybe converted to Islam? Typical Alanta, but not unexpected. So glad that I moved out into the boonies in 1975.
By Roy
February 7, 2008 3:39 PM | Link to this
Typical Atlanta entities…just not that patriotic anymore. Have they joined the Communist Party yet, or maybe converted to Islam? Typical Alanta, but not unexpected. So glad that I moved out into the boonies in 1975.
By Me
February 7, 2008 3:39 PM | Link to this
Wow! That sucks! I can’t imagine it, and my kids either. Nothing to do on the 4th now.
By CJ
February 7, 2008 3:42 PM | Link to this
Tom, WSB can’t cancel the gay pride celebration and parade. Not even sure if they’re a sponsor.
Even if all the sponsors left, if we have to drive back and forth along Peachtree Street with a rainbow flag attached to the car, there WILL be a parade! :)
By sunshine
February 7, 2008 3:43 PM | Link to this
You know I think it is rediculous that Atlanta cannot have a long held tradition. Look at New York.. And Chjicago. theirs have ben going on much longer. let’s at least haver a little of our “lost heritage”Left in place for our children and grands.some just might want to come to downtown and stand in the heat to watch just for the sake of tradition.. My downtown as I knew it was demolished and rebuilt a few years ago. something that even the Civil war wasn’t able to do. but in the theme of being more modern and politically correct. we lost out ” hometown” to money hungry people . something New York nor Chicago would never do.. they still have their heritage.. Don’t keep taking away our traditions. please.
By Jason
February 7, 2008 3:44 PM | Link to this
I want Fox 97 back. Z93 Back. 96 Rock back. 99X Back. And my July 4th Parade. Only in Atlanta would we ruin and destroy such great traditions. This is a sad, sad shame… maybe it’s political, maybe it’s economical, it doesn’t matter what it is… another Atlanta tradition… gone with the wind. Why don’t you just take the Varsity and Turner Field with you? And to all those haters that can’t seem to stand us ITP-types and downtown Atlanta… you are not a true Atlantan by an definition. Get out of my town!
It’s a sad, SAD day when we can’t even have our own July 4th parade… WSB should be ASHAMED!!!!!!!!!!
By Richard
February 7, 2008 3:45 PM | Link to this
It’s all about money. WSB has turned into a money making organization with little or no relevance to the Atlanta community. Look at the radio station, a bunch of right wing nutcases. Why do they need a parade?
By thogwummpy
February 7, 2008 3:48 PM | Link to this
I think Tom’s point is that Atlanta has become ONLY about worshipping “diversity”. Hell, just read the AJC for goodness sake! Dollars to donuts, if you polled Atlantans and asked which event they’d like to have back, NO DOUBT the desire to re-install the irresponsible pandemonium of Freaknik, would vastly out-poll the 4th of July Parade. Atlanta has become a moonbat, activist, hate-America divisive-obsessed mecca…for a virulent hip-hop generation. Little Five Points attitude has malignantly infected this city like a cancer…the more one loathes America, the more superior one thinks they are…and if you treat folks as equals instead of pandering to their “victimhood” status, then YOU will get called a Nazi/racist 100% of the time. Losing the 4th Parade, is simply a benchmark of Atlanta’s snide simpleton attitude.
By JJ
February 7, 2008 3:49 PM | Link to this
What a shame. Watching it on TV is boring. I want to be there in person. I love seeing the little kids faces……..
Next thing you know they will cancel the Christmas Parade. There will be hell to pay if that happens.
By Randy
February 7, 2008 3:54 PM | Link to this
It was a long run WSB.Time to change the channel.So long!
By Angela
February 7, 2008 3:58 PM | Link to this
I agree with Sunshine. Why can’t we have ANY traditions in Atlanta? In a word, it’s just sad. :(
By ATLien
February 7, 2008 3:58 PM | Link to this
Wow! This is really a shock. While I admit, I rarely watched it, on those not so hot years we did go downtown. This is the largest 4th parade in the country. They should have at least had “a last one” so people could really soak it in. Atlanta isn’t the place it was, BUT we need not be so quick to toss things aside and conform to the changes and those relocating here… some things need to stay since they are embedded into the culture of Atlanta and thus the transplants need to conform and and enjoy. Not the other way around so much.
By JIM
February 7, 2008 4:00 PM | Link to this
WSB cancels the Salute 2 America parade, a key part of the Atlanta Independance Day Celebration. Next, the Lighting of the Great Tree at Macy’s Lenox as that may impact those that do not celebrate Christmas. The PC and diversity crowd has taken over. A Sad day for Atlanta. Maybe Fox 5 will pick up the Salute TO America parade and add it to their already great coverage of the Peachtree Road race. That would make for a FOX filled Independance day on the ATLANTA station, WAGA.
By Booz
February 7, 2008 4:00 PM | Link to this
Some of you people are really scary—xenophobic, racist, small-minded bigots who the see the financially-motivated end of a second-rate parade as the end of the world, as dictated by the Anti-Christ. I thought America was founded to be inclusive of all races, religions and beliefs, not to be the playground of exclusionary rednecks who believe that world peace is the work of Satan. Jesus preached love and tolerance for all mankind, not just white Christians, and if you can’t get your small minds around that simple concept, then you are anathema to the Gospel of your Lord and Savior. You are to be pitied.
By Aurora
February 7, 2008 4:01 PM | Link to this
How truly pathetic, UnAmerican, AND UnPatriotic. Shame on you WSB…..
By emack06
February 7, 2008 4:01 PM | Link to this
logic and Tom, if you really wanted this parade to stay you and all your comies should gotten off your lazy Azz and actually attended the event to support it. WSB makes no reference as to the reason being about race diversity….it mentioned geographical diversity…for you dumbazzes that means covering differnt locations with their non-HD cameras to save money. I for one did like the parade downtown, its unfortunate it had to be cancelled, but thats the sign of the times of a bad economy…You can thank your boy WB for that.
By Fed Up
February 7, 2008 4:04 PM | Link to this
How many of you have actually been to the parade. Almost everyone blogging is either a Hypocrit or racist.
By Tired of hearing it
February 7, 2008 4:06 PM | Link to this
Did they say somewhere they are cancelling it because we shouldn’t celebrate 4th of July anymore? If you want to celebrate - do it and shut up!
WSB isn’t responsible for the city of Atlanta. They aren’t a charity either, and if they’re losing too much money, they have the right to cancel anything they want to.
Do I hear someone here offering to pay for the parade themselves??? I didn’t think so…
By Constance Bryant
February 7, 2008 4:09 PM | Link to this
How sad.I understand that it will now become an expensive venture.Why not try to do it evry other year?
By keith
February 7, 2008 4:16 PM | Link to this
They cancelled the parade in order to give more money to that racist loud mouth.
By Richard
February 7, 2008 4:16 PM | Link to this
If Americans in Atlanta want a Fourth of July parade you don’t have to have WSB to support it. It should be a parade of Americans, grateful for the liberties we have and should not be a “handout” from a corporation. So Atlantans, go ahead and plan a parade. Eventually a permanent citizens committee will be formed and the parade will be gigantic. But make sure you charge the TV stations who want to televise it.
By concerned
February 7, 2008 4:16 PM | Link to this
Another American Tradition down the drain. We are losing our freedom a little more every year. WSB must have sold out to Middle Easterns. We must stand up now or lose our hard fought freedom in the furture.
By Jennifer
February 7, 2008 4:18 PM | Link to this
Let’s get a grip folks. WSB cancelled the parade, not the holiday!
By Toni
February 7, 2008 4:20 PM | Link to this
I am a native Atlantan. It sickens me to see this perpetrated by a native Atlantan. Every single tradition that we as a city have held dear (the Great Tree etc.)has been taken down by money hungry elitists who starve for attention from more elitists whom they think will consider them more global or international. If they have their way, every city will be alike! So what if it costs a little money. I agree with the writer that said New York and other larger cities certainly more diverse than Atlanta are holding their traditions together. Atlanta should unite and put a stop to this immediately. You CAN do it. This is just another symbol of the tearing down of YOUR Atlanta.
By Clay
February 7, 2008 4:20 PM | Link to this
I think you all read this story incorrectly—or I did. WSB said Atlanta had grown geographically diverse. Meaning, we live all over town and it’s a chore to bring folks in from Gwinnett, Forsyth, Cobb, etc. They did not say we should not celebrate. They also used the word “county” and not “country.” This has nothing to do with celebrating the USA. They just said they were no longer sponsoring the parade through Atlanta.
By Sarah
February 7, 2008 4:21 PM | Link to this
So those of us who actually live in the city have to drive to the suburbs to see a 4th parade? I don’t care that it costs more to produce for all those lazy people who watch parades in their living room! Get out and do something instead!
By Jason
February 7, 2008 4:22 PM | Link to this
Why does Tom’s comments have anything to do with race alone?…he also mentioned Gay Parade. It seems that so many people in Atlanta get hung up on race..include the African Americans themselves…
By Peaceupatowndwn
February 7, 2008 4:27 PM | Link to this
I’m sad as an Atlantian They cancel everything here !!
Sad , sad, so very sad !
By Parade for Sale
February 7, 2008 4:28 PM | Link to this
FOR SALE
America’s largest Independence Day Parade. Come on folks why do we need WSB? Let’s form our own parade! Where’s the permit office? We’ll call it Independence Day Parade or A Salute to Freedom! Who’s with me?
Call Fort Mac and Gilliam, the Dobbins Air Base we need a few military folks and their families to pat on the back. How ‘bout the Georgia Tech Band or UGA? What HS bands are available? I’m sure we can find a few clowns, floats, balloons, fire trucks, car dealerships, horse troupes, majorettes, boy scouts, girl scouts and finally a Grand Marshall.
Who’s available to help out?
By Galligan
February 7, 2008 4:31 PM | Link to this
All you flag-waving jingoists can pick up the tab for this extravaganza if you like. The line for donations (cash only, no pledges) will, I suspect be a very short one …
By Galligan
February 7, 2008 4:32 PM | Link to this
All you flag-waving jingoists can pick up the tab for this extravaganza if you like. The line for donations (cash only, no pledges) will, I suspect be a very short one …
By shefrog
February 7, 2008 4:32 PM | Link to this
To Fed Up: I grew up in Atlanta. Our family went every year to the parade - then to the Lowe’s Grand for a movie- then home for fireworks. It was exciting. I have taken my children to the parade as well. It was a time to truly celebrate what was great in this country. True Atlantan’s will box up memories of the parade, along with the great bells at Rich’s, Davidson’s, and the Lowe’s Grand, and mourn the loss of another hallmark of freedom. WSB - the love of money is the root of all evil. Be careful.
By Cheryl
February 7, 2008 4:32 PM | Link to this
You know, I think we should start a boycott of WSB right this minute, today. If enough people (all people) would join together we could move a mountain. Money talks and if we are not watching their sponsors and buying the products, WE WIN!! We should tell them what we want and not wait for them to give us what they want us to have. ONE FOR ALL!!!!! Any takers?
By bernie
February 7, 2008 4:33 PM | Link to this
Why’s everyone so upset? WSB/Cox cancelled the parade for the most American of all reasons: the almighty dollar. It’s all about money. Period.
The public be damned. Public service and tradition? Hah. I’m surprised the disingenuous brass at Channel 2 (the comedy team of Hoffman & Rogers) didn’t have this quote: “Kids, you don’t need to see the parade. Just log on to our website and look at all the car ads. It’s just as fun. Really!”
By Dave
February 7, 2008 4:34 PM | Link to this
I agree 100% with Tom. And F%&$ U WSB!
By A.C.H.
February 7, 2008 4:34 PM | Link to this
WOW!! I’m a native Atlantan and I’ll be as old as the parade on July 4th. The parade, as well as the Peachtree Road Race was something that I looked forward to every year on my birthday. I wanted to take my grandchildren to their first Salute to America parade, as I did my daughter! UNBELIEVABLE!!!
By shefrog
February 7, 2008 4:34 PM | Link to this
To Fed Up: I grew up in Atlanta. Our family went every year to the parade - then to the Lowe’s Grand for a movie- then home for fireworks. It was exciting. I have taken my children to the parade as well. It was a time to truly celebrate what was great in this country. True Atlantan’s will box up memories of the parade, along with the great bells at Rich’s, Davidson’s, and the Lowe’s Grand, and mourn the loss of another hallmark of freedom. WSB - the love of money is the root of all evil. Be careful.
By shefrog
February 7, 2008 4:35 PM | Link to this
To Fed Up: I grew up in Atlanta. Our family went every year to the parade - then to the Lowe’s Grand for a movie- then home for fireworks. It was exciting. I have taken my children to the parade as well. It was a time to truly celebrate what was great in this country. True Atlantan’s will box up memories of the parade, along with the great bells at Rich’s, Davidson’s, and the Lowe’s Grand, and mourn the loss of another hallmark of freedom. WSB - the love of money is the root of all evil. Be careful.
By Nakeshisa
February 7, 2008 4:40 PM | Link to this
Instead of this parade, they should have more parades for African-Americans, who make up most of the area near downtown. We shouldn’t have parades for racists like George Washington, who had slaves. The city should give back a lot more money and benefits to African Americans because of all the abuse we take in this racist city!
By Greg
February 7, 2008 4:43 PM | Link to this
Why dn’t we thank WSB for being kind enough to sponosor the parade for the last 47 years, instead of (dishonestly) insisting that we’ll never watch channel two again? Why don’t we ask the City of Atlanta government why there wil no longer be a parade? Is it really WSB’s obligation to provide it to us?
Gimmie gimmie gimmie… boycott boycott bocott… it’s all the blacks’ fault… it’s all the gays’ fault… it’s all the Muslims’ fault… Doesn’t matter what the article is about, the responses on these boards always seem to have the same themes.
By anonymous
February 7, 2008 4:43 PM | Link to this
tom and dennis, the parade was sponsored by wsb-tv. they don’t sponsor the pride parade.
By anonymous
February 7, 2008 4:43 PM | Link to this
tom and dennis, the parade was sponsored by wsb-tv. they don’t sponsor the pride parade.
By JK
February 7, 2008 4:43 PM | Link to this
Absolutely pathetic. I had the pleasure of driving people in the parade for several years, and it was great fun. I remember Chuck Smith from the Falcons was amazed at how many people showed up. Stupid dumb decision.
By ATL Native
February 7, 2008 4:43 PM | Link to this
This is another example of how the urban sprawl of the metro area has negatively affected an Atlanta tradition. “Perhaps, not as many people want to pack up the family in the car, drive into the city, look for parking and stand out in the heat.” What kind of comment is that from an EXECUTIVE? They don’t have heat in Gwinnett?
By Patrick
February 7, 2008 4:49 PM | Link to this
Never went to it, won’t miss it
By L.
February 7, 2008 4:54 PM | Link to this
I think Georgia needs to suceed from the Union, and call it a day. Everywhere around me, Atlanta is starting to resemble New York or Los Angeles, and now July 4th is cancelled. How unpatriotic is that? WSB must be owned by Al-Jazeera now. Pretty soon we will have a Muslim president, and there won’t be any July 4th holiday because it robs the taxpayers. I am leaving Georgia. May Atlanta burn in Hell.
By Cheryl
February 7, 2008 4:54 PM | Link to this
Nakeshisa - Are you serious? Just when I think we have hope for change, it never will happen with attitudes like yours. Would you rather be living in a racist city (your words) or in an AIDS infected climate like Africa. You have a chance in Atlanta, you would probably not be so lucky in Africa. By the way, there is no such thing as an “African American”. Africa is a Continent so you have to pick a place, you know, America is part of North America Continent. You can not be a Continent. Sorry.
By c.pate
February 7, 2008 4:56 PM | Link to this
Good Thinking! Atlanta’s far too large and multicultural for an Independence Day parade. Let’s leave parades to little hamlets like New York or Boston.
By Jony Nam
February 7, 2008 4:56 PM | Link to this
It is sad. The kids truly loved the 4th of July parade, and I truly hated going to Atlanta to see it. WSB, while I do appreciate your reasons for not sponsoring the parade, I feel that the announcement should have been made that last years would be the last one, or do this years announcing that it would be the last one. Kind of a slap in the face the way you did it. You are correct in saying that broadening your broadcast into other towns would give people a glimpse of the real celebrations and home town parades rather that big corporate sponsored parades. I know several towns that have July 4th parades that are much more enjoyable to attend that the one in downtown Atlanta….good luck.
By cinlee
February 7, 2008 4:58 PM | Link to this
emack06 Who is WB? I would like to know who you think we should thank. My bet is that I would disagree with you but would like to know for sure.
As for cancelling the parade, well, I didn’t get to town to see it in person but I did watch it on television and enjoyed it. I’ll miss it but understand the financial liability it creates. As long as the channel doesn’t decide to honor low incident holidays in place of this and the Lighting of the Great Tree then I’ll accept it and move forward. If however the channel decides to honor those lesser holidays, I’ll have to reconsider watching Monica, John, and Glen in the evenings. I hope it doesn’t come to that.
By Lee
February 7, 2008 4:59 PM | Link to this
1- this was a privately funded parade, so anyone who wants to moan about “the selling out of America” to special interests needs to take a civics class 2- is it the Parade that makes you patriotic or what you believe inside? How empty are you folks? Oh that’s right… this is the same bunch that has flags on their cars but doesn’t know the origin of the stars/bars
By Calvin Sims
February 7, 2008 5:06 PM | Link to this
So many traditions are being lost. Starting with Terminal Station, The Penny Arcade, The Pink Pig (@ Rich’s Downtown) and more. I can understand that it is business, but it would have been better if WSB had announced that this will be the last year so that “old” native Atlantans, like myself, could enjoy a hometown tradition, just one more time.
By Dee
February 7, 2008 5:08 PM | Link to this
It sounds to me WSB has committed on another venue. Thanks WSB for sponsoring the parade all of these years!
By cinlee
February 7, 2008 5:09 PM | Link to this
To Nakeshisa What do you mean? If the Atlanta is predominately African American then how can it also be racist to all you people of color? And, what more can you be given when everyone in the rest of the country knows that if you come to Atlanta and you are a person of color you are given everything without having to do anything for it?
By GeorgiaPeach
February 7, 2008 5:17 PM | Link to this
How UNAMERICAN!!!!!!!!!!! What’s the real reason, afraid, someone might be offended, because “we” celebrate whats good about our nation? DO you know of all the visitors that come to Atlanta to see our parades? Guess people don’t need some crappy tv station to sponsor a parade, let’s get together and find another sponsor. Thanks a bunch WSB TV.
By Jakki
February 7, 2008 5:17 PM | Link to this
Great! I never watched it anyway. I will be watching lifetime instead. Pass the popcorn and the tissue. Seriously, we all know it’s a financial issue. We have all had to cut back every since “lil man an nem” been in office. Tom is a loser. How about we cancel your email?
By cinlee
February 7, 2008 5:18 PM | Link to this
To Cheryl,
Here, Here! If it is soooooo bad here in America maybe all the african Americans should go someplace more befitting them. I agree this is AMERICA, grow up and decide to become a part of it rather than a constant thorn in it’s side!
By scottnjaxbeach
February 7, 2008 5:19 PM | Link to this
Tom,
Thank you for speaking out and telling the truth! The fact of the matter is that Atlanta is geographically ashamed to be in the same state as Georgia. Yes, I wonder if the Gay Pride, MLK parades will be cancelled.
I also wonder if this has anything to do with the on going war against terrorism! Hmmmm, makes you wonder doesn’t!
I remember when WSB stood for Welcome South Brother! Not anymore!!
By Mike
February 7, 2008 5:20 PM | Link to this
Guaranteed that Fox5, 11Alive or CBS46 will gladly pick up the tab. If Cox wasn’t paying their outrageous salaries to Monica and crew, they would have the money. Guess they are nothing but a bunch of communist!
By Michael
February 7, 2008 5:26 PM | Link to this
This was one of those things that made WSB different thant the others channels. WSB think their ratings are always going to be high are folling themselves.
By Mike
February 7, 2008 5:31 PM | Link to this
Now Cox knows why I watch 11Alive for my news!
I guess Monica needs a new hairdo!
By HB
February 7, 2008 5:34 PM | Link to this
Oh yes, of course. If it’s cancelled, it must be WSB bowing down to the crazy p.c. anti-American radicals. Come on, people! It’s a news station and a business. They have no obligation to sponsor any event.
My first question is, how many people attend the event each year? If it’s a small crowd, then it makes sense to spread their coverage to the many celebrations in the metro area rather than spend all their money and have a huge portion of their staff and equipment at one parade. They say ratings are down — probably because people are out celebrating in their own communities rather than staying home and watching the downtown parade on TV. There’s nothing unpatriotic about a station covering other events instead of hosting their own. If a neighbor hosts a July 4 BBQ for 15 years and one year decides to stop, are they unpatriotic and shameful?
And who says the parade has to end? If people really want it to go on, then they should organize, show that a significant number of people want the tradition to continue, and convince someone else (WXIA? Coca-Cola? Delta?) to sponsor it.
By DH
February 7, 2008 5:35 PM | Link to this
Wow, you all are so mean. I think it’s sad that WSB is cancelling the parade. I used to take my kids when they were younger and they enjoyed it. After they were grown, I would watch it on TV. It’s not about black & white or anything else. I do think the CITY ought to have a July 4th celebration, whether WSB pays or someone else. But I think it was a generous civic gesture in the past—and that WSB will regret having made this decision.
By Joel
February 7, 2008 5:38 PM | Link to this
Let’s face it folks. if you really want to be patriotic, Line the side of the road when a funeral for our brave WARRIORS pass by on the way to their grave on this earth, but not their final resting place. We did in Cleveland ga. By the way, WSB wasn’t there, channel 11 was
By News watch dog
February 7, 2008 5:43 PM | Link to this
Can we move the parade to Lanier Islands and add a flow with Lori Gerry, Pam Martin, and Carol Sparge in bikins
By News watch dog
February 7, 2008 5:44 PM | Link to this
Can we move the parade to Lanier Islands and add a flow with Lori Gerry, Pam Martin, and Carol Sparge in bikins
By Danny Tallent
February 7, 2008 5:45 PM | Link to this
Tom you are right on. I’m sure we will keep the african american history week and gay pride day.
By mark Smith
February 7, 2008 5:50 PM | Link to this
Just wait a few more weeks and they will tell us we are not allowed to walk on any grass in the city. No festivals in the parks, no parade, no rain.
By Pete
February 7, 2008 5:53 PM | Link to this
What a shocker!!! Once again, the thugs and illegals have screwed something up. Will it ever end? Downtown Atlanta used to be nice and safe. Look at it now. I wonder why it is all messed up? I wonder why Grady is in trouble? That’s fine though. Let the thugs keep moving in. Eventually, it will turn back over and we will make it all nice again. Did I just hear a bullet fly by? Oh I did, I am downtown.
By State Retiree II
February 7, 2008 5:53 PM | Link to this
My big brother was in the NAS Atlanta Color Guard for the very first WSB Salute to America prade. For many years I watched the 8mm movie that I took that day (sadly lost in a house fire a few years ago). He and I grew up in East Atlanta and our parents had no problems with letting us ride the “trolley” on the Old Soldier’s Home route to downtown to check out the Army-Navy stores when we were just kids. The parade has now gone the route of just about everything that has to do with Atlanta….a fading memory. I worry each time one of my sons’ tell me that he and a date are going downtown to a ball game. Ask a retired Atlanta cop if he would feel safe allowing his kids to go down to the Little Five Points MARTA Station and check out some shops. Very doubtful in my mind. Especially any son or daughter younger than 21 and not packing a piece. From Buckhead south to the airport, there is nothing for anyone to do where they don’t get preyed on by panhandlers….sexual predators….armed robbers and dope dealers.
Yep, I’ll take the suburbs and live with my memories of a one time wonderful downtown Atlanta where patriotic Americans started the greatest July 4th parade in the country! I guess cable is taking over most of WSB’s ratings. I rarely watch Channel 2 any longer and you can put it in the bank I won’t be watching anything on that channel every July 4th from now on.
By Les
February 7, 2008 5:55 PM | Link to this
Ah, diversity…..with the help of the misfits at WSB, our American apple pie and hot dogs will be replaced with burritos and middle eastern cuisine. Perhaps we can all began to enjoy devouring our pets!
Let us never underestimate the depravity of those at WSB. Perhaps in the near future they will have the ecstasy that can only come from kneeling on prayer rugs pointed to Washington DC and beg for light of President Obama to shine upon them.
As a nation we are toast. Now I will go throw up.
By carolyn williams
February 7, 2008 5:57 PM | Link to this
“I thought America was founded to be inclusive of all races, religions and beliefs, not to be the playground of exclusionary.” Booz, I’d recommend that you go back and read the true history of America. America was not founded for the reasons “you thought”. For proof without reading anything, consider what was done to the native people of this land and Africans brought here for the sole purpose of enlavement. I hope you do not consider mistreatment and slaughter of human beings to be inclusive.
By parkwooddawg
February 7, 2008 5:58 PM | Link to this
Welcome South Brother! Good ‘ol WSB, I remember when you had a beacon of light about you. Now, just fade to black, I guess. But I wonder about how you will cover and contribute to other things. Stop having a parade because we’re too big and grown up now? Makes absolutely no sense whatsoever. What could be more important than a 4th of July parade? Hmmm, I just wonder what role speacial interests played in this decision. Kinda makes me wonder, WSB, about what future role you’ll have in our big, diverse, melting pot.
By Keeping It Real
February 7, 2008 6:06 PM | Link to this
Tom/Dennis/Scott.
Are you really that ignorant or just trying to be funny? African American parades are not sponsored by anyone except those wanting to participate. I guess that you want everyone to know that you are a bigot. Pleade don’t use the 4th of July celebration to make your point.
By Alex
February 7, 2008 6:09 PM | Link to this
I’ve lived here for 22 years, and to be honest, didn’t know we had a parade on July 4th. So I guess I won’t miss it.
By BuckheadBill
February 7, 2008 6:13 PM | Link to this
WSB-TV had a 4th of July parade. Son of a gun.
By emack06
February 7, 2008 6:15 PM | Link to this
cinlee, i mistyped…suffering from carpotunnel syndrome…I ment GWB or Bush….
but, I swear some of the comments on this board justify Georgia’s bottom tear education rating…no one has cancelled the 4th of july, only congress can do that.
By the still, small voice of reason
February 7, 2008 6:18 PM | Link to this
Are you all insane? Can you read for comprehension? WSB is NOT cancelling or refusing to observe Independence Day. Instead, they are expanding their coverage around the metro area. So what if they decide use their resources to cover the parades in Marietta or Jonesboro or Colbert, or show the celebration at Stone Mountain, rather than put on their own parade? I fail to see how this is caving in to liberals, illegals, special interest groups or terrorists, but it may be because I don’t view every event in light of a conspiracy to overthrow white America. If the city of Atlanta wants a parade, knock yourselves out and put on one instead of throwing a tantrum because a corporation isn’t doing the work and footing the bill for you any more.
By alan
February 7, 2008 6:18 PM | Link to this
WSB just made a business decision — its that simple. With the deterioration of the city and the relatively attractiveness of our surburan towns — Roswell, Marietta,and others — continuing to pour money into an event with a diminishing following doesn’t make much business sense.
By Dan
February 7, 2008 6:24 PM | Link to this
Why don’t we call it INDEPENDANCE DAY? Most people don’t even know why its a holiday. Just another day to be off and get drunk.
By Al
February 7, 2008 6:32 PM | Link to this
The cancelling of the parade is OK as long as WSB spends the money upgrading its news programing. The news is full of tech glitches and the reporters are getting so old that it they need to retire. We need some fresh talent!
By TC
February 7, 2008 6:38 PM | Link to this
Nothing last for long in this town. There was the great Ramblin Raft Race, freaknic, to name a couple. Now the 4th.
By Doug
February 7, 2008 6:53 PM | Link to this
WSB, You have run this by the Kimmer, right??
By Good lord, people
February 7, 2008 6:56 PM | Link to this
First of all, it’s independence, Dan…
What is wrong with you people? lol
They’re not canceling the day…just shifting coverage to more (and better?) parades….
YEESH!
By Miss T
February 7, 2008 6:59 PM | Link to this
I LOVE A PARADE! My husband and I are volunteers for the Peachtree Road Race and then we’d rush downtown to volunteer for the S2A Parade. I am a native Atlantan and feel that these events, plus eating bar-b-que and watching the Lenox Square fireworks all made for a wonderful family day. If you don’t know, the city of Atlanta has issued new rules on permits for sponsoring events like this, and extra costs such as providing porta potties all along the route, police and private security, extra marshalls, paying for cleaning up garbage dropped by spectators, liability insurance, etc. are expensive. Sure they have sponsors, but I suspect that their over head increased. So, yes, it is more costly to host an event like this. Don’t blame WSB - You want to start your own parade? Wait until you see how much it will cost you. It just won’t be the same July 4th this year. I will miss that Parade.
By steve
February 7, 2008 7:18 PM | Link to this
Don’t kid me, this liberal outfit is just bowing to the ultra left wing and trying to be PC
By Kyle
February 7, 2008 7:22 PM | Link to this
Kind of fits in with the three candidates that are left of which one will be the President next year at this time. I guess on the 4th of ‘09 we will be waiving the white flag and apologizing for being American and standing up for ourselves….To pathetic and weak for me.
By Abner
February 7, 2008 7:22 PM | Link to this
It always was much ado about nothing.
By Howdy
February 7, 2008 7:46 PM | Link to this
so what if they want to cover what white people do on the 4th? Big deal.
By mad
February 7, 2008 7:50 PM | Link to this
to nakeshisa,the reason yall make up the majority of the population,is because yall have 10 kids to a litter,and cant afford a car and have to live near a marta stop
By Suburban Mom
February 7, 2008 7:55 PM | Link to this
It’s kind of funny to site “pack up the family in the car…look for parking and stand out in the heat” when you do that at any outdoor summer event, especially on July 4th. And the parade downtown was worth it. It will be sorely missed by my family. It’s a shame that Atlanta is losing so much tradition.
By mac
February 7, 2008 7:56 PM | Link to this
to nakeshisa,the reason yall make up the population in atl is yall have 10 kids to a litter,and have to live near a marta stop
By Suburban Mom
February 7, 2008 7:59 PM | Link to this
It’s kind of funny to site “pack up the family in the car…look for parking and stand out in the heat” when you do that at any outdoor summer event, especially on July 4th. And the parade downtown was worth it. It will be sorely missed by my family. It’s a shame that Atlanta is losing so much tradition.
By Atlantan
February 7, 2008 8:08 PM | Link to this
Why we hating on this issue among each other? Hell, if anything we need to hate on those we decided to cancel this after 50 years. And besides, they can still have this parade if they really want too, if this parade is too expensive for WSB to put on tv, hell they should cut back on some of advertising they spend then they could have “more” money.
By Marshall
February 7, 2008 8:09 PM | Link to this
I suppose with this logic Macy’s will be cancelling the Thanksgiving parade because no one wants to drive into NY. Another Atlanta tradition gone.
By John
February 7, 2008 8:34 PM | Link to this
I heard in France they don’t even have the 4th of July parade.
By Disgusted
February 7, 2008 9:00 PM | Link to this
And this is the station that’s so big on service to the community and for years has sponsored Family2Family events for families to attend together. What’s more family oriented than a 4th of July Parade honoring our country for the whole family to attend? I guess parents will tell little Johnny or little Jane when they cry when they find out they’re not going to the parade this year that the almighty buck is more important than patriotism and family. Give me a break! So what if it cost them a few more bucks than it used to… they can afford it.
By Yvonne
February 7, 2008 9:11 PM | Link to this
The 4th of July will be very strange. Since I was a little girl I have been going to the parade. I will be 40 years old this year. I continued the tradition with my children. This is something we look forward to every year. What will we do this year?
By Danimal
February 7, 2008 9:26 PM | Link to this
I believe I went to the parade when i was 5 or 6. I am now 55. I have lived here all my life and been to the parade once. How many of you complaining have actually gone to the parade? That’s what I thought. Don’t blame Channel 2 for trying to save a dollar or two. When was the last time you said, “I am going to watch Channel 2 tonight because they have the 4th of July parade”. There are enough small towns around Atlanta that have a parade if you have the urge. Get over it.
By Star of the Zanarkand Abes!
February 7, 2008 9:44 PM | Link to this
The first time I’ll be in Atlanta for the 4th IN YEARS, and BAM! no parade!
By Matt the Brave
February 7, 2008 9:53 PM | Link to this
You know, it’s honestly ok to love America. Why can’t we have a parade once a year to remind people that it’s ok. Honestly. I hate when Yankees (i.e. Cox Communication) get in the way of things that we actually enjoy in the South. If you are looking for something to do on that day, head up to the little town of Epworth, GA on 4th of July. It’s an honest-to-goodness old-fashioned 4th of July. They have a car show, bbq, local talent, Lions Club serving food, and also a massive yard sale…not to mention the best pie contest ever! And the Boy Scout troop is usually out showing their teepees and other things that they have learned over the previous year. Truly a slice of Americana. Come up! It’s only about an hour and a half from downtown Atlanta.
By Melly
February 7, 2008 9:59 PM | Link to this
There are some real lunatics trolling this place. As someone mentioned, WSB isn’t cancelling the 4th, only their sponsership of the parade. Any of you brainiacs have a clue about how much it costs? It’s not cheap. It’s funny that all these idiot posters are calling WSB unpatriotic and communist and blaming blacks and gays. What a stretch, but I think those people blame all their woes on minorities and gays. Isn’t WSBTV related to WSB radio? What does your god Boortz have to say about this? He’ll tell you how to think.
By Shamus Thacker
February 7, 2008 10:01 PM | Link to this
Tradition has officially become a dirty word… Channel 2 is second-rate; with this move they’ll achieve maximum suckedness…
Uncle Dewey says they achove it years ago…
Bye Y’all
By boots
February 7, 2008 10:11 PM | Link to this
WSB sucks.
By blacksheep
February 7, 2008 10:17 PM | Link to this
(yawn)
By Shamus Thacker
February 7, 2008 10:17 PM | Link to this
I never watch the parade cause I’m always hung over, but I like knowing it’s on!! Knowing that I won’t get to miss the parade this year depresses me. What else will be on, (on a different channel), that I can miss instead? Something good, something that comes on every year, something that I can look forward to missing in a traditional sense.?.?
I always miss the damn car race too; guess I’ll just switch completely over. Thanks fer your help guys, I’ll just enjoy missing the race from now on…
By Ruthie
February 7, 2008 10:26 PM | Link to this
I am sorry to hear America’s 4th of July parade will not be in Atlanta. It was always our favorite thing on the Fourth with the children participating in various groups in the parade. I am now in my 70s & change is sign of progress. Another favorite thing I enjoyed in Atlanta was dressing up at Halloween in costume and many, many people parading up and down the streets just fellowshipping and no pranks, just fun. The extra cost for WSB, the city, etc can be very costly but I will miss seeing the parade on TV since I am unable to attend like I did in the 60s. Thank you WSB for providing a lot of enjoyment for the people of Atlanta and surrounding areas.
By Matt Stafford
February 7, 2008 10:28 PM | Link to this
Do they have a 4th of July in England?
By JM
February 7, 2008 10:37 PM | Link to this
Yawn….zzzzzzz!
By chilidog
February 7, 2008 10:40 PM | Link to this
These comments are so funny. Let WSB take their parade to Gwinnett County if they want to. Who cares? I don’t. I just hate to see so many traditional things moving from Atlanta. Next it will be Coke-Cola, then the Braves, and then the Falcons. Pretty soon downtown Atlanta is going to be a ghost town.
By JennyL
February 7, 2008 10:44 PM | Link to this
For many years I have stood proudly watching this parade. I’m humbled to see the expressions on my husband’s face (He’s a veteran of 2 wars, and still serving.) I love to see the Vietnam Veterans going by and hearing all the cheers they finally are getting. The WWII veterans riding proudly by bring tears to my eyes - we’re losing them by the thousands. Just this week we lost one of two remaining US WWI veterans. Now, WSB and Atlanta cancel THEIR parade. We don’t owe it to the poor, inconvenienced people of the suburbs who might have to get off their backsides and drive a few minutes. (We manage to drive nearly 40 miles to get there and don’t fuss!) We owe it to the people who gave unselfishly for our freedom. Freedom isn’t free - or convenient!
By Todd
February 7, 2008 10:56 PM | Link to this
Just another example of the subarbanization of Atlanta. And when Atlanta, the actual city, is gaining population. Channel 2, if you like the suburbs so much, then move your headquarters out of the city. You’re an ATLANTA station. Not a Gwinnett station. You should continue to sponsor events in Atlanta.
By dont rain on my parade
February 7, 2008 10:56 PM | Link to this
WSB has given Atlanta a lot of wonderful “Salute to America” memories to cherish from years past for which nobody can take away. It’s all about the lack of money in this case as a parade is very expensive to put on.
Remember also that we’re in a RECESSION here in the good ole USA! Truth be told, this is really only the tip of the iceberg in Atlanta and across the rest of the country. In the coming months (well before the 4th of July) it’s going to get worse…much worse. Companies will fold, jobs will be lost and the economy will go down the toilet deeper than it already has. It is sad but true. Soon, instead of parades we’ll see marches and protests against a government that has left most people out in the cold.
By Fan of the Parade
February 7, 2008 11:07 PM | Link to this
WSB I am very angered by this. I have watched this parade every year since I was a little boy. I made sure I was either there or somewhere near the t.v. so I can always see the soldiers, the marching bands, everybody!!! I’ve marched in this parade for 3 years with my local high school band and we was proud to be in this parade and say that we are not only African-American, but we were AMERICANS. And it made us smile to see the kids waving and see people clapping and enjoying our music. But all that is going to be gone now. So I hope you guys are reading this blog and all of them. Don’t PLACE THE BLAME OF THIS ON DIVERSITY or PEOPLE HAVING TO DRIVE TOOO FAR!! Atlanta was the only major city in this country to have this parade and we’ve always were able to brag to the rest of the country about what we did here. But I’m sure 11alive or Fox5 or maybe even CBS46 will pick up and I hope they do.
By FalconHeroZero
February 7, 2008 11:08 PM | Link to this
I guess the fireworks, extra traffic jams, and music will scare the deer and the bears that smell the food in the forests up there..
If you think it’s hot, just go further north into the mountains, closer to sun, and cut-down more trees up there..
By Bob
February 7, 2008 11:17 PM | Link to this
I don’t like it at all. This parade has always been a big part (along with the Peachtree Road RAce) of celebrating the 4th in Atlanta. The parade is cancelled because the ratings have decresed? BOO to WSB!
By James
February 7, 2008 11:18 PM | Link to this
This is great news for WSB. Now they’ll make $51 million in profits instead of only $50 million. This is precisely why TV is dying a slow death - greed outweighs their desire to have local relevance. Within 5 years, we’ll no longer need WSB to filter our content for us. Everything we need will be available from ABC on the Internet, YouTube or hundreds of other sites. WSB is pocketing as much cash as they can while they can. Radio took the first hit, then newspapers and now TV.
By AGgravated
February 8, 2008 12:13 AM | Link to this
I will be watching Fox or even another channel from now on. I love the parade on tv because I am unable to go stand in the street to watch even tho they show more of the anchors than the parade. Goodbye. FOX, here I am!
By hitwriter
February 8, 2008 12:18 AM | Link to this
Maybe another station will want to host the event?
By humbug
February 8, 2008 12:22 AM | Link to this
WSB CANCELED THE PATRIOTIC PARADE BECAUSE IT WOULD INTERFERE WITH THE GAY/LESBIAN PARADE, AND AFTER ALL, ISN’T IT MORE IMPORTANT??
By HB
February 8, 2008 12:41 AM | Link to this
Love how many people are saying they will now watch other stations. Are those stations sponsoring the parade? Have they ever? Does that make them unpatriotic? Seems WSB’s crime was ever giving at all — now somehow they are bad for stopping after 47 years, while the others are good without ever having sponsored at all.
Get an organization together and find new sponsors if you want it. Find multiple major sponsors so that no one company has to shoulder the whole burden. But don’t be surprised if they’re hesitant to take it on. After all, if this blog is any indication, companies will be demonized if they don’t continue to sponsor every year from now to eternity. Safer not to give in the first place…
By howdy
February 8, 2008 2:10 AM | Link to this
whatever Obama is half white thats the only reason he has a snowballs chance in hell, Im i democrat but there is no way in hell people will vote for a black or a women. I am so tired of Tiger he is half Asian, thats why he is good at golf, most people operate by the one-drop principle, one drop an d u are 100% not fair but thats just how it is
By Ronnie
February 8, 2008 5:38 AM | Link to this
WSB hates America
By itsme
February 8, 2008 6:23 AM | Link to this
As the city’s oldest broadcast entity, it would be appropriate for WSB to sponsor some kind of patriotic celebration saluting the nation’s history.
By Chris
February 8, 2008 6:38 AM | Link to this
You are kidding me right! Would NYC cancel the Macy’s parade because it got “too large”, how about LA and the Rose Bowl parade. Oh wait, those cities are both larger than ours and still have those parades. People aren’t off doing other things on those days you say…What?? Thanksgiving and New Year’s, people are either travelling to their location or getting over their hangovers and sleeping in. Come on ATL, we are big enough to have a parade, I guess WSB isn’t.
By MW
February 8, 2008 7:08 AM | Link to this
Instead, the Atlanta ABC network affiliate plans to expand its metro area coverage on the patriotic holiday this year to include more geographically diverse July 4 celebrations.
What exactly does this mean, ‘diverse July 4 celebrations?’ As others have stated —just another in a long-line of metro-Atlanta traditions fallen by the wayside because of the mighty dollar and concern over ‘diversity.’
I hope that someone is smart enough to at least keep the PEACHTREE road race on Peachtree —or will that be just another tradition that is gone and forgotten as well?
By amerixico
February 8, 2008 7:10 AM | Link to this
I guess they want a little break between the (end)-of July 4th events & the “2010 beginning” of the newly founded North American Union! People, please do your homework! Democrat, republican—- that is only a ruse to keep us distracted—(same as the war) All the candidates left , are members of the CFR(Council on Foreign Relations)—- McCain will most likely be (placed)- into position— because of his ability to enforce martial law —-that is what will be necessary, when Americans wake up one day to the fact that this is no longer “the United States of America”, & we are no longer protected by the constitution. This plan was launched in 1921 by the Rockerfellers, J.P.Morgan— now it includes the global powers— “we the people”— are a thing of the past! Just google— CFR-(council on foreign relations) NAU-(north american union) Federal Reserve Bank OWO-(one world order) Spp-(secrity & prosperity partnership) the Illuminates You’ll see— WE are no longer in control— sheep were asleep too long!!
By baybdoll
February 8, 2008 7:22 AM | Link to this
I will miss it very much. There are only a few things in Atlanta that you can sit home or go to for free. I’ve always looked forward each year to The Salute 2 America parade and The Christmas tree Lighting from the comfort of my living. It is very sad to hear that it’s another thing we are loosing in Atlanta.
By baybdoll
February 8, 2008 7:25 AM | Link to this
I will miss it very much. There are only a few things in Atlanta that you can sit home or go to for free. I’ve always looked forward each year to The Salute 2 America Parade and The Christmas tree Lighting Celebration from the comfort of my livingroom. It’s very sad to hear that it’s another thing we are loosing in Atlanta.
By amerixico
February 8, 2008 7:34 AM | Link to this
Again-Americans, why were you too lazy to fight for this country? In 2010- we will no longer be the U.S.A! We will become “the North American Union” Look up & research— The CFR(concil on foreign relations) The NAU(noth american union) The OWO(one world order) The Federal Reserve Bank The Illuminaties It’s over, America——you didn’t even fight it!
By The Murf
February 8, 2008 7:34 AM | Link to this
The liberal media hates America…
By Julie
February 8, 2008 7:40 AM | Link to this
Uh, excuse me, Booz, but Jesus preached there was One way to the Father (God) and that was through Him (Jesus). So, yes, Jesus was and still is, pretty exclusive. You might want to actually read all that Jesus said before you start quoting Him.
By Buzz
February 8, 2008 7:51 AM | Link to this
Typical for Cox. Old lady Cox dies and everything goes down hill. I say stop watching WSB and pick another station. Its time to put our foot down Atlanta!!
By Dave in Marietta
February 8, 2008 7:56 AM | Link to this
Parades are stupid.
By Alvin York
February 8, 2008 7:56 AM | Link to this
Pam Martin in a bikini? yeccch! ditto any of those other old tv broads. Dagmar Midcap — now that’s another story. men of Atlanta, start watching channel 46 if you want the hot chicks: big boobs in a knit top + blonde Stephany Fisher. And another thing, all this faux-patriotism is nauseating. WSB Cox is raining on the parade owing to poor ratings. It’s business, so get over it. The funniest most absurd lament is from the ignorant woman crying oiver the dead Ww I “veteran.” He enlisted in the army in October 1918 and served 60 days, none of them in a trench in France. he learned to March and got a free “great coat.” I’ve come closer to combat riding thug-infested stinking MARTA.
By Johnny Boy
February 8, 2008 7:59 AM | Link to this
FalconHeroZero, obviously you have never been to the mountains of North Georgia nor have you ever known anyone who is originally from up there. Stop being an idiot. I hope a bear mauls you.
By Dave in Marietta
February 8, 2008 7:59 AM | Link to this
Parades are stupid.
By Darb
February 8, 2008 8:08 AM | Link to this
Dont try to feed us that BS about other holiday activities around town. What do you think Atlantans want to see, illegals jay-walking accros the street on Buford Hwy? This is nothing but a business decision, and now WSB has jumped on the same bandwagon as all other businesses, only looking at the bottom line.
By patrick
February 8, 2008 8:09 AM | Link to this
Wow. I don’t really know what to say. Whatever will I do on the morning of July 4th now? No more parade? No more frolic in the streets of Atlanta? No more making bets with my buddies on what hair style Monica will appear in? sigh. The winds of change are a-blowin.
By radioman
February 8, 2008 8:13 AM | Link to this
The Kimmer will have a lot of fun with this … it’s worth six months of jokes. What’s that?
By Di
February 8, 2008 8:16 AM | Link to this
Sunshine, If you were educated in Atlanta, then that may be part of the reason things are changing. You can’t spell! I was so put off by your misspellings that I didn’t even care what you said.
As far as the parade being cancelled, yes, it’s a bummer but now maybe the local communities will start their own parades and we can celebrate with the people we live near and MAYBE actually get to know some of them! This parade being cancelled doesn’t mean that the holiday has been cancelled. If you have nothing else to do on the 4th of July, I feel really sorry for you. How about spending time with your family and friends? Start your own 4th tradition. Or have we gotten so lazy that we have to wait for someone else to think of something?
By amerixico
February 8, 2008 8:34 AM | Link to this
….chipping away @ America & the Constitution. WSB- doesn’t stand for America.. CNN- doesn’t stand for America.. Hillary- doesn’t stand for America.. McCain doesn’t stand for America.. The North American Union —- will be finalized in 2010—(thats 2 years-PEOPLE!!) The rulers of the GLOBE are the CFR-(council on foreign relations)…& the near future is OWO(one world order) an elected president isn’t elected @ all… he(she) is PUT INTO PLACE to carry out a mission. The “cowboy” did a fine job-keeping borders open & the war distraction— McCain will be a great military man when its time for “martial law”. Wake up !!! … & you fools think its about traffic & monica koffman
By Jarof Pickles
February 8, 2008 8:36 AM | Link to this
Will WSB also suspend televising any future political speeches from the king center? I here they are planning on floating the blonde version of Monica over the big Broadcast Tower. All they have to do is add helium and she can be seen from all metro counties.
By Steve
February 8, 2008 8:38 AM | Link to this
No jazz concert at piedmont park, no peachtree road race, no water activities, no july 4 parade, what’s up Atlanta. There is already not much to do here. Who cares if some of the metro counties have their own parade, what about those of us who live in Midtown or in the city period.
By Di
February 8, 2008 8:43 AM | Link to this
Why is everyone bringing race into this? The article said they wanted to provide more GEOGRAPHICALLY diverse coverage. Could this mean we might see what some of our NEIGHBORS are doing? Geographically diverse has NOTHING to do with race. Give it up, people! You can’t bring race into this one.
By Jennifer
February 8, 2008 9:05 AM | Link to this
I’ll miss the parade, although I haven’t been able to watch it for many years. Each year I assist with the parade in Stone Mountain.
Yes, it stinks that Atlanta will not have a 4th of July parade. Hopefully another channel will step up and start hosting one there. But people, get out there and find a 4th of July parade to attend! There are quite a few towns in the metro area that have their own parades.
Teach your kids what the 4th of July stands for. Teach them to respect all of our veterans. The 4th isn’t about parades, it’s about respecting our heritage and giving thanks for the men and women who have died protecting our freedom.
By Jennifer
February 8, 2008 9:07 AM | Link to this
I’ll miss the parade, although I haven’t been able to watch it for many years. Each year I assist with the parade in Stone Mountain.
Yes, it stinks that Atlanta will not have a 4th of July parade. Hopefully another channel will step up and start hosting one there. But people, get out there and find a 4th of July parade to attend! There are quite a few towns in the metro area that have their own parades.
Teach your kids what the 4th of July stands for. Teach them to respect all of our veterans. The 4th isn’t about parades, it’s about respecting our heritage and giving thanks for the men and women who have died protecting our freedom.
By gmtravillian
February 8, 2008 9:08 AM | Link to this
I think it is a shame!The parade was a wonderful Atlanta tradition. In an age when our lives change so quickly, it is extremely sad that another of our traditions is biting the dust.
By You Know Who It Is
February 8, 2008 9:08 AM | Link to this
Jason, I too long for Z-93.
By Jerry Arnold
February 8, 2008 9:17 AM | Link to this
I am 59 years old and I have always from a little boy been so excited about the 4th of July parade. I think this is a awful mistake to stop the parade. WSB I know that you can keep this parade going, we looking forward to seeing channel 2 celeberties hosting the parade and all the big floats. PLEASE DO SOMETHING.
By Native Atlantan
February 8, 2008 9:21 AM | Link to this
I was born and raised here, intown Atlanta, and have never been to the 4th of July parade. It’s the sort of thing that Atlanta is famous for, a good idea on paper but totally falls apart on execution. So many events are for tourists and not for those who live intown. The Road Race is more of a 4th of July tradition than anything else in Atlanta. It really brings people together and celebrates a great sense of community. Thank you ATC.
By Marcher
February 8, 2008 9:23 AM | Link to this
As a prior marcher for mnay years in the Salute 2 America parade, I will definately miss seeing it every year. I still have memories of the children and adults alike cheering as I matched down the street twirling my 2 and 3 batons. Thank god I have videos or else I would never be able to relive those memories again. It was fun to enjoy the holiday with all of Atlanta that came out when I was on the sidelines.
The biggest question is… when did race or sexual orientation become an issue? People get over it no matter what color or country you are from!!
By Native Atlantan
February 8, 2008 9:23 AM | Link to this
I was born and raised here, intown Atlanta, and have never been to the 4th of July parade. It’s the sort of thing that Atlanta is famous for, a good idea on paper but totally falls apart on execution. So many events are for tourists and not for those who live intown. The Road Race is more of a 4th of July tradition than anything else in Atlanta. It really brings people together and celebrates a great sense of community. Thank you ATC.
By Native Atlantan
February 8, 2008 9:24 AM | Link to this
I was born and raised here, intown Atlanta, and have never been to the 4th of July parade. It’s the sort of thing that Atlanta is famous for, a good idea on paper but totally falls apart on execution. So many events are for tourists and not for those who live intown. The Road Race is more of a 4th of July tradition than anything else in Atlanta. It really brings people together and celebrates a great sense of community. Thank you ATC.
By DunwoodyDawg
February 8, 2008 9:29 AM | Link to this
Does this mean WSB is going to start covering the awesome Dunwoody 4th of July Parade?
By Dick the dancer
February 8, 2008 9:36 AM | Link to this
I think the cops should arrest all the Gay Priders that do obscene acts during the parade. Make it more family friendly!
By otis
February 8, 2008 9:46 AM | Link to this
You blooming idiots……….It has nothing to do race. It has everything to do with ratings and money. Ann Cox Chambers has decided that a losing program is not being supported by the advertisers and longer. Who wants to see a large group of marching bands (who all look alike) strutting their rear ends down Peachtree Street to the same old music that any band can’t play.
Maybe Monica is tired of being the Queen anchor of this parade.
By Chess
February 8, 2008 9:47 AM | Link to this
All this hate. Remember Light Up Atlanta. They had to cancel that because the white freaks came out scared the suburb white freaks. To much Bud Light. I have a float ideas too. The Barbie Bandit.
By Jack ATL
February 8, 2008 9:55 AM | Link to this
What are we suppose to take from this? Has Atlanta become to big for its britches? Or, is WSB bowing to the anti American crowd? OR, BOTH?????
By willie
February 8, 2008 9:58 AM | Link to this
Yeah…lets just say screw you America in deference to a more diverse “geographical” celebration…afterall, we only owe the country and those that have sacrificed for it our very existence…this country is going straight to hell in a hand basket..and everyday the signs just get more obvious. I just wonder how long we will continue down this path before there is an uprising or revolution. Americans are so stinking spoiled and getting more so everyday…they have forgotten how we got here and to what we owe our true allegiance….little by little, step by step we are watching our country’s heritage, traditions and sovereignty be dwindled away by political correctness, national lassitude and apathy, not to mention ignorance and deficiency of basic education….and when it’s all over, I hope those of you that helped make it so are very proud of what you have brought about for yourselves, your children, and beyond.
By ozemc
February 8, 2008 10:02 AM | Link to this
Hey Nakeshisa,
Look in the mirror if you want to see the RACIST in the room!
By janet
February 8, 2008 10:08 AM | Link to this
The only parade I would like to see is our troops returning from the war in Iraq and that can be on any day we can get them home but the sooner the better. As for all of you who are so upset, get over it. This was a privately sponsored parade paid for 50 years so that you could have some warm and fuzzy memories.How about a great Southern “thank you” or have you forgotten your Southern manners? So if you really want another parade, get together some friends, call all those corporate execs you revile and ask them to pay for it. Until that happens (which will be right after that snowball hits hell), do something positive on Independence Day. Celebrate this great human experiment called the United States of America. The powers who would take it down the wrong path are not those you think they are. It is up to each of us to celebrate the principles upon which our country was founded. I for one don’t need a parade on July 4th to do that. And I challenge you to do the same.
By janet
February 8, 2008 10:09 AM | Link to this
The only parade I would like to see is our troops returning from the war in Iraq and that can be on any day we can get them home but the sooner the better. As for all of you who are so upset, get over it. This was a privately sponsored parade paid for 50 years so that you could have some warm and fuzzy memories.How about a great Southern “thank you” or have you forgotten your Southern manners? So if you really want another parade, get together some friends, call all those corporate execs you revile and ask them to pay for it. Until that happens (which will be right after that snowball hits hell), do something positive on Independence Day. Celebrate this great human experiment called the United States of America. The powers who would take it down the wrong path are not those you think they are. It is up to each of us to celebrate the principles upon which our country was founded. I for one don’t need a parade on July 4th to do that. And I challenge you to do the same.
By janet
February 8, 2008 10:10 AM | Link to this
The only parade I would like to see is our troops returning from the war in Iraq and that can be on any day we can get them home but the sooner the better. As for all of you who are so upset, get over it. This was a privately sponsored parade paid for 50 years so that you could have some warm and fuzzy memories.How about a great Southern “thank you” or have you forgotten your Southern manners? So if you really want another parade, get together some friends, call all those corporate execs you revile and ask them to pay for it. Until that happens (which will be right after that snowball hits hell), do something positive on Independence Day. Celebrate this great human experiment called the United States of America. The powers who would take it down the wrong path are not those you think they are. It is up to each of us to celebrate the principles upon which our country was founded. I for one don’t need a parade on July 4th to do that. And I challenge you to do the same.
By janet
February 8, 2008 10:10 AM | Link to this
The only parade I would like to see is our troops returning from the war in Iraq and that can be on any day we can get them home but the sooner the better. As for all of you who are so upset, get over it. This was a privately sponsored parade paid for 50 years so that you could have some warm and fuzzy memories.How about a great Southern “thank you” or have you forgotten your Southern manners? So if you really want another parade, get together some friends, call all those corporate execs you revile and ask them to pay for it. Until that happens (which will be right after that snowball hits hell), do something positive on Independence Day. Celebrate this great human experiment called the United States of America. The powers who would take it down the wrong path are not those you think they are. It is up to each of us to celebrate the principles upon which our country was founded. I for one don’t need a parade on July 4th to do that. And I challenge you to do the same.
By Scooter
February 8, 2008 10:11 AM | Link to this
No one cares about parades unless their kids are in them. Having lived in town for years, they tie up traffic, police, emergency vehicles and generally cause chaos for no good reason. Most parades are all the same, some bs anchormen sitting in a convertible, a couple HS marching bands and some dork in a clown suit….seen one seen them all. Theres no reason why the city should pay taxpayer money for yet another parade no one goes to. And who watches a parade on tv, anyway?
Now a gay pride parade would at least be interesting and lets face it…Midtown is loaded with ‘em. If I still lived in town, I might even go to that one. Some bikers in drag leading each other around by choke collars? Thats entertainment. What does Atlanta have the 3rd largest gay population in the US? Let them have their fun…they pay taxes and plenty of them
By Native
February 8, 2008 10:17 AM | Link to this
It’s amazing how many low lifes make comment on this blog… Stop hiding behind your keyboard…
Atlanta’s parade was a true family affair. If some of you bothered to come from under your rock and out of your holes you would notice. This is a long tradition of events that come to die in Atlanta. Tecumseh Sherman jinxed the place. Let me see if I can run down the things that I know have gone by the way side in this once prestine village.
The Pink Pig, Riches, The Great Tree (moved), Light Up Atlanta, Grant Park Zoo, the River Raft Races, Sears & Roebuck, Carneige Library, Freaknik, Fulton County Stadium, Georgia Force, The Atlanta Chiefs, The Atlanta Flames, Cheney Stadium, Morris Brown College, The First Atlanta Tower, nearly every classical structure ever built. Now this! I have to wonder when will Liberty, the Spirit Group and “Othur” Blank will move the Braves, Falcons, and Hawks to Gwinnett?
I suspect the Atlanta Track Club will move the Peachtree Road Race to Gwinnett or Cobb because they can’t use Piedmont Park.
I survived the urban renewal of the 1970’s so I’ve been around a while. It’s just sad.
Stop blaming people because of their color for the ever changing stage we play on.
By Faye
February 8, 2008 10:26 AM | Link to this
Yes I will miss the Salute To America parade. Although I wasn’t there in person, I always watched on tv……….this is sad!
By Jim
February 8, 2008 10:27 AM | Link to this
Change is always difficult and not everyone understands. However, you used the phrase “to include more geographically diverse July 4 celebrations”. To better help us understand, would you explain what exactly this means.
By John
February 8, 2008 10:28 AM | Link to this
Who really gives a crap about WSB!?!? WAGA, WXIA, WGCL…here’s your chance to step up and be the hero here, while the rest of us boycott WSB (WESB, you haven’t yet seen how far your ratings can plumett).
Good luck with
By Chris
February 8, 2008 10:52 AM | Link to this
How does having the parade prevent WSB from covering other communities? Festivities go on all day. Sounds like they are unwilling to state whether the real reason is political correctness, or that it has become too costly, or both.
By shelly
February 8, 2008 10:53 AM | Link to this
All we hear is becoming diverse. What about what our country was founded on. Before you know it kids growing up will only associate Fourth of July with gay parades. Sorry, it was not founded by a bunch of sodomites.Why is it that they feel they need to have a parade and walk around half naked and acting out with all fulgarity.But unfortunetly it is becoming more and more diverse and that is why we have all the problems now. God help us we are in the last days.
By shelly
February 8, 2008 10:53 AM | Link to this
All we hear is becoming diverse. What about what our country was founded on. Before you know it kids growing up will only associate Fourth of July with gay parades. Sorry, it was not founded by a bunch of sodomites.Why is it that they feel they need to have a parade and walk around half naked and acting out with all fulgarity.But unfortunetly it is becoming more and more diverse and that is why we have all the problems now. God help us we are in the last days.
By shelly
February 8, 2008 10:54 AM | Link to this
All we hear is becoming diverse. What about what our country was founded on. Before you know it kids growing up will only associate Fourth of July with gay parades. Sorry, it was not founded by a bunch of sodomites.Why is it that they feel they need to have a parade and walk around half naked and acting out with all fulgarity.But unfortunetly it is becoming more and more diverse and that is why we have all the problems now. God help us we are in the last days.
By shelly
February 8, 2008 10:55 AM | Link to this
All we hear is becoming diverse. What about what our country was founded on. Before you know it kids growing up will only associate Fourth of July with gay parades. Sorry, it was not founded by a bunch of sodomites.Why is it that they feel they need to have a parade and walk around half naked and acting out with all fulgarity.But unfortunetly it is becoming more and more diverse and that is why we have all the problems now. God help us we are in the last days.
By shelly
February 8, 2008 11:03 AM | Link to this
WSB must have someone making these decisions now that is either- muslim,gay or some other “diversity” that wants to change a long lasting tradition and turn it into something foolish.
By Pete
February 8, 2008 11:46 AM | Link to this
There’s nothing to stop another entity (like Coke, MACOC, the Falcons, Home Depot, Delta, etc.) from organizing a 4th of July Parade in Atlanta. WSB clearly wants to hand over the opportunity to someone else. They are free to do as they like - we all are. Celebrating our freedom doesn’t mean that WSB has to do something it has decided it no longer wants to do.
By MR
February 8, 2008 11:57 AM | Link to this
Atlanta’s Fourth of July parade became a population core event. If you could walk to the bus stop or Marta station, you attended the parade. If you were in the suburban communities, you are more than likely to attend your community Fourth of July programs - such as Marietta, Kennesaw, Lawerenceville, Jonesboro or Lithonia.
By sickofmonica
February 8, 2008 12:14 PM | Link to this
Hey, speaking of WSBTV, when the heck is Monica going to retire? Didn’t they give her a big send-off several years ago? Jovita was supposed to get Monica’s spot on the news but now Jovita is relegated to the 5:00 news while Queen Monica hogs the 6:00 and 11:00 news casts. I am so sick of seeing her everywhere with her crazy hair! At least I won’t have to see her also doing the 4th of July parade anymore!! Monica, PLEASE RETIRE!!!!
By twinkie
February 8, 2008 12:16 PM | Link to this
This is sad. No matter how regional it becomes, if Atlanta was not there, the suburbs would just be Georgia—no better than Mississippi or Alabama, nothing states full of nothing. THis is a big mistake. What’s next? King Week? The fireworks?
GEorgia is a prosperous state because of Atlanta, not in spite of it.
And July 4th is not the second big event being altered this year. There is also Gay Pride and the Dogwood Festival. So its the 4th, at least.
Maybe the state needs to look at ways of directly tapping the Chattahoochee for the water supply instead of Lake Lanier being the only source of water.
By Cindy Sue Causey
February 8, 2008 12:59 PM | Link to this
Oh, my goodness..!! Knocked me right off my chair when I first saw the headline..
:waves (and shared tears) to all the wonderful parade chair persons and volunteers I had the honor and pleasure to work with in recent years:
By Geez
February 8, 2008 2:18 PM | Link to this
Why do some people insist on turning everything into a racial issue? Nevermind, I know the answer to that….ignorance!
By queenkong
February 8, 2008 2:23 PM | Link to this
I’ve been in Atlanta for about 22-23 years and I never knew about the Fourth of July parade but it’s sad to hear that we won’t have it anymore. I mean, Lenox has always been about the fireworks and all. If it’s because of all the new development, DUH, then it’s terrible that we won’t be having a parade. I mean with more people moving to Atlanta, shouldn’t the parade be a bigger event? What about moving the parade where traffic wouldn’t be affected as much? Plus, it’s a national holiday, won’t most people be BBQ’ing or something?
By Scott
February 8, 2008 3:42 PM | Link to this
Unless you cancel the MLK paradeand other parades, then I will lead a boycott of WSB tv and it’s advertisers until the 4th of July parade has been restored.
By JP
February 8, 2008 4:26 PM | Link to this
Typical of Atlanta.. unable, or uninterested, in maintaining tradition. And don’t blame Atlanta’s liberal nature—this is easily traceable to the unwillingness of suburbanites here to drive “into the city” and be around “those people,” as has long been a problem.
Conservatives and Republicans have successfully thrown “freedom” around for so long that they’re now free to enjoy dinky hick town celebrations all over the area, and no longer free to enjoy a celebration with others from all over the area because they failed to support it. Lack of civic pride did this one in.
Wouldn’t the people of New Orleans revolt if Mardi Gras were allowed to be canceled?
You people should be ashamed of yourselves.
By Patrick
February 8, 2008 5:03 PM | Link to this
I guess New York City is lucky to be a small enough town to have the Macy’s Christmas parade!
By bob
February 8, 2008 5:44 PM | Link to this
FOX is the big dog now WSB(ABC) is a falling star. Maybe FOX can step up to the plate. Now we will see if they are fair and balanced able to do their fair share!
By A. Hollie
February 8, 2008 6:15 PM | Link to this
No parade! Are you joking me? That’s like canceling Mardais Gras in New Orleans. That parade has been etched in the history of Atlanta. I was born in Atlanta. The first parade I ever went to was the 4th of July parade. The parade was the highlight of our celebration. On the 4th of the July there were two things you could always count on no matter what side of the Chattahoochee river you grew up on ; Barbecue and the 4th Of July parade. Can’t imagine Atlanta without it?
By JW
February 8, 2008 6:15 PM | Link to this
What’s the big deal we all know what WSB stands for they. WSB only favors one type of person…looks who runs Atlanta…need I say more.
By Edna
February 8, 2008 8:14 PM | Link to this
Hasn’t anyone noticed that the only people in the U.S. that have the right to traditions are non- whites and people with accents . We are celebrating Black History Month now.We have BET(BLACK ENTERTAINMENT TV).If we had a station called WET(WHITE ENTERTAINMENT TV),every black leader would be forming marches and rallies against it ,don’t even think about WHITE HISTORY MONTH.I didn’t use to feel this way,but the government always goes too far to one side.IT’S THE SQEAKEY WHEEL GETS THE OIL crap.I wish we had white rights activist that come running to help us everytime something smelled of racism.I’M TIRED OF EVERYBODY EXCEPT WHITE ENGLISH SPEAKING PEOPLE being able to keep their traditions and cultures without planned protest against it. For all you people that think WSB is not having the parade because of money .What does money have to do with diversity of people.
By Alan S. Hawkins
February 8, 2008 10:31 PM | Link to this
Can anyone define “Racist” in this d** city of Atlanta? I am 50 and I was born in 1957 in GEORGIA BAPTIST HOSPITAL! DEFINE RACISM! I am willing to bet that 9 out of 10 of you d** can not define the term?
By Karan
February 9, 2008 7:34 AM | Link to this
Sounds like WSB is going down the tubes with so many more Americans who are losing their patriotism. I wonder if they’re just worried about “offending” folks who aren’t from this country. That’s what so many universities, colleges, etc are doing. Even our own government and politicians are cowards when it comes to patriotism. What a shame.
I AM AN AMERICAN. I am proud to say it and show it. I don’t need WSB’s help to make that so. However, it sure was nice to have other’s join in on the celebration with me.
Take your money and run, WSB.
By Melissa
February 9, 2008 9:45 AM | Link to this
It’s difficult to have a parade when you have to worry about the participants falling into sinkholes and tripping over metal plates, etc.
By Chuck
February 9, 2008 11:46 AM | Link to this
Canceling the 4th of July parade? There is no excuse for this decision. July 4th is a celebration of our country and recognition of those who fought (in armed conflicts AND peaceful protests) to gurantee OUR freedoms. Shame on WBS!! This not a race issue!
By Yvonne
February 9, 2008 12:01 PM | Link to this
I can see why they can’t afford to hold it for economical reasons, but they could just move the parade to a stadium that charges it’s attendants to have this great party and make the money back that has been put into it, and maybe even make some money off of it if enough people attend (what, you say that’s what they already plan to do?). If you don’t help pay for a parade how can you be so upset that they are takeing it away? It does cost them money. We can still be Patriotic ourselves without a parade. They can still be Patriotic without a parade. It’s ‘not’ UnPatriotic to “not pay” for your entertainment for the day. If you want entertainment for the fourth, throw your own block party or yard party, pay for all the entertainment and use all of your time that will be required to set up a celebration of greatness or you can go to a stadium and pay to see what ever they decide to change the event to. Get over it… Change happens everyday. If them stopping a parade is UnPatriotic then the UnPatrioticness is in your own heart…make it a celebration no matter what anyone else is making it.
By Jay
February 9, 2008 12:33 PM | Link to this
I worked on the Salute to America Parade as part of the WSB-TV Promotion Department from 1970 till 1978. We need to tip our collective hats to the parade founder Ms. Jean Hendrix, long-time Promotion Director who was the driving force behind the parade for many, many years. It was Jean who through her contacts brought people to Atlanta such as Bob Hope, Billy Graham, and honored Atlanta’s own Tommy Clack, a Vietnam Veteran and triple amputee. I would also like to mention others in the WSB-TV Promotion Department who were instrumental in handling the nuts and bolts of putting the parade together: Dick Akin, Carolyn Bryson, Pam O’Connor, Lise Jones. But the parade was a total station effort. Everyone had a job and everyone pitched in and helped. It should be noted that in the 70’s, WSB-TV personnel handled all aspects of putting together and managing the parade. In more recent years the parade has been “farmed out” and the station basically writes a check to the producer. One final thought … back in the early 70’s while driving down Peachtree to White Columns early on parade morning. I clearly remember seeing runners on the side of Peachtree. The street was not blocked off, and there were not that many runners so that they got in the way of the cars(or vice versa) — but those were the early days of the Peachtree Road Race.
By Nothing Uique anymore In Atlanta
February 9, 2008 10:02 PM | Link to this
Well one of the few things that was typically Atlanta goes by the wayside and for no REAL understandable reason except a load of psycho-babble about the “many other diverse activities” here in Atlanta. Come-on folks, this IS Atlanta we are talking about here. The and of NOTHING especially uniquely Atlanta here at all - remember the CHICAGO Style Hot dogs or the NEW YORK style Pizza or maybe even the Popeye’s LA Style Chicken……..My point is that for 47 years, Atlanta had something that was actually of Atlanta- like the lighting of the Great Tree At Christmas (which has been hijacked to Buckhead). I marched in one of the bands in the parade when I was a kid in high school, my kids were in the parade when they were coming along and I had hoped to take my grandkid to the parade now that she is big enough to enjoy it. I am shocked and sickenly disturbed at WSB TV’s decision. It especially hurts since WSB TV - IS supposed to be THE station of Atlanta. All I have to say to that is a Very disgustedly BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO - HISSSSSSSSSSSSSS!!!!!
By Bo 30307
February 9, 2008 11:41 PM | Link to this
Again another tradition bites the dust, or they will move it, which is ok because downtown Atlanta is running out of families anyway. And the parade should be enjoyed by the whole family making it something special, since they can’t afford the $20 parking fees and taking a chance on getting killed because the police are not exsistant except writing parking tickets to those able to find a parking space. With companies backing out of downtown activies like Delta, Coke, and yes the AJC what do ya’ll expect. And now a new stadium to go with their arena, why would anybody want to venture into the big nasty city and the prices to attend those events in town, and the parking and try taking Marta in only to get mugged going back to your car, or sit in traffic for hours. Canceling festivals at piedmont park because of little less rainfall, does anybody really know how to run this city or just profit on the backs of the taxpayers like the water problem, its been going on for over 25 years. Until there is a real change in city government, expect even more pullouts/cancellations and I hope these northern cities keep sticking it to downtown. By the way there could really be 2nd airport in Atlanta and I don’t mean Charlie Brown in Fulton County. Keep building those convention centers, too. Do ya’ll remember the white flight to the burbs in the late 60’s, well get ready for the SMART flight of 2000’s and downtown again will be empty after 5pm again. The way building is going on, everything in the same building why even build sidewalks no one will need them and the latest is a bus system for Peachtree St and the Beltway, stand up people and vote these morons out before it is too late, you will be overtaxed paying for these whims.
By Bo 30307
February 9, 2008 11:41 PM | Link to this
Again another tradition bites the dust, or they will move it, which is ok because downtown Atlanta is running out of families anyway. And the parade should be enjoyed by the whole family making it something special, since they can’t afford the $20 parking fees and taking a chance on getting killed because the police are not exsistant except writing parking tickets to those able to find a parking space. With companies backing out of downtown activies like Delta, Coke, and yes the AJC what do ya’ll expect. And now a new stadium to go with their arena, why would anybody want to venture into the big nasty city and the prices to attend those events in town, and the parking and try taking Marta in only to get mugged going back to your car, or sit in traffic for hours. Canceling festivals at piedmont park because of little less rainfall, does anybody really know how to run this city or just profit on the backs of the taxpayers like the water problem, its been going on for over 25 years. Until there is a real change in city government, expect even more pullouts/cancellations and I hope these northern cities keep sticking it to downtown. By the way there could really be 2nd airport in Atlanta and I don’t mean Charlie Brown in Fulton County. Keep building those convention centers, too. Do ya’ll remember the white flight to the burbs in the late 60’s, well get ready for the SMART flight of 2000’s and downtown again will be empty after 5pm again. The way building is going on, everything in the same building why even build sidewalks no one will need them and the latest is a bus system for Peachtree St and the Beltway, stand up people and vote these morons out before it is too late, you will be overtaxed paying for these whims.
By Concerned "Native Atlantan"
February 10, 2008 2:32 AM | Link to this
To the management of Cox Enterprises, owners of WSB-Television, Channel 2 - the first television station to be broadcast in the city once called, “Terminus”, due to the fact that many railroad companies lines ended here: SHAME ON EVERY PERSON WHO APPROVED THIS DECISION AND THE LACK OF DIGNITY WHICH THE DECISION WAS HANDLED!!!!!!!!!!!
I have read these many “blogs” of fellow Americans’, who like I am not pleased with what seems like are the “Politicially Correct” as well as “Cost Reduction” lines that are spoken by those in high places, with disregard as well as disrespect of the feelings of those of us who usually stay silent. The time has come for us to raise our voices as Brothers and Sisters who are “UNITED - NOT DIVIDED”, for a City divided cannot stand…will fall and great shall that fall be. FIRST - we are mostly all AMERICANS. Much blood from many other brothers and sisters has been shed so that we have are able to discuss this in a free and open manner. We can agree to disagree. This is the reason why this Holiday for Atlanta is so important, as well it should be.
I agree that WSB does have the right to pull their sponsorship of this Parade for any reason they want to, be it for the almighty profit margin or any other reason. Our Armed Forces in numerous wars have died to give you that right. My gripe is this: YOU SCREWED-UP ROYALLY by choosing to depart in the manner chosen.
Many things in my lifetime that I thought would “Stand the Test of Time” are long gone with the wind, yet not forgotten in the hearts’ of us who lived through them as residents of “Atlanta”. The two remaining large train terminals, Rich’s, Davison’s, Loew’s Grand, almost even our beloved FOX was slated for demolition, yet we rallied then as never before or since and “Saved The FOX”, as my bright red t-shirt says as a testament to what CAN BE DONE!!!
Yes, the economy is not as good as it could be. The Democrats control the Congress and the “Liberal, i.e. Politically Correct” wing of the Party controls them. The Republicians have their “Right-Wingers” who have an agenda of their own. What happened to being an “AMERICAN FIRST”, one nation under GOD, with Liberty and Justice for all??? The answer my friends’, is “Blow’in In The Wind”…which ever way that happens after this poll or that poll. Science shows us plainly with a simple magnet that: Opposite’s Attract. Why in the name of reason can we all as AMERICANS, not come together as the magnet’s do??? Come let us reason together because we are our Brother and Sisters’ keeper. The city as well as the house divided CANNOT stand.
It is late and I am weary. The news of losing another crutial part of the Fabric of the Atlanta of my youth is gone. The grey clouds on the horizon are dreary; yet we as “The People” have a chance to disburse those clouds before they turn angry and black as in the face of a violent, raging storm. We can do all things, move mountains and even retain a Beloved Parade that honors all of us as Americans’, whether we attend it in person or we are only able to see it on another television station. If only Ted Turner still owned, “Channel 17, America’s First Cable Superstation”, by the way it has always been a free channel in the Atlanta area…….the station who touted The Atlanta Braves as, “America’s Team”. Is there a corporate executive(s) who are willing “Patriots” enough to spend the big bucks it will take to keep alive “OUR Heritage” to honor the founding of These United States of America??? I wonder if “The People”, rich and poor, young and old, no matter what race, political view, etc. can reason together to solve a problem in civilized manner before it is too late? The clock tis ticking…….do we give a hoot to realize that the “Liberty Bell” still tolls for thee as well as me.
By Bob
February 10, 2008 3:08 PM | Link to this
WSB, you are a HUGE disappointment to Atlanta, whom you owe your own success to. Now you are taking away the “biggest 4th of July Parade in the country.” I guess it’s not politically correct to celebrate being an American any more. As far as people not being able or willing to come to Atlanta to watch the parade - ummm…hello? Isn’t it free? Wouldn’t you PREFER people watch it on television for the ad revenue? Your logic is illogical. The so-called community 4th of July celebrations are crap. Let’s see: we can watch the local kids riding their Hot Wheels - FUN! Because of your corporate greed or political correctness or a combination of both, we will no longer be able to see our favorite sports stars, local celebrities, celebrate our war veterans, beautiful patriotic floats - none of those are going to be in our “community celebrations.” All that’s left will be the Gay Pride celebration the 4th of July weekend (I’m sure WSB will be there for that). As far as Piedmont Park stopping all the activities we in-towners enjoyed because they are worried about the GRASS, let’s see….how much money does it cost to replace grass in the fall vs. how much freakin’ money you are losing by NOT holding all these festivals! Brilliant, just brilliant.
By JOEL
February 10, 2008 11:34 PM | Link to this
ATTA BOY TOM !! THE ONES THAT RESPONDED TO YOU ARE THE RACIST IDIOTS—-BORN AND RAISED IN ATLANTA——ALOT LONGER THE THE ONES THAT RESPONDED TO YOU——ATLANTA HAS LOST ALOT OF TRADITIONS—-HERE GOES ANOTHER !!
By Native Child
February 12, 2008 5:28 AM | Link to this
After sitting up all night and reading everyone’s emotional comments, pretty much everything has been said, but I needed to express my sadness anyway. I too am so disappointed with WSB’s decision to discontinue the 4th of July parade. I remember as a child my mother and father taking my brothers and I down town for the parade. This was a once a year gift because we never went down town otherwise. I was always so excited to see all the things the parade had to offer. I now mostly watch it on TV before I go to my cookout. Now all that tradition will be gone for future generations to experience. I too feel that whatever the reasons to cancel are, WSB could have handled the announcement better since this has been a tradition for almost 50 years(not so impersonal). If nothing else they should have made a big to do about it and stressed their dismay with their decision. It’s as though WSB didn’t give a hoot what the native community thought about it, the decision was theirs and we all can go to crap. Our country is getting more and more self centered and all traditions be damn. Lord Help us!
By Richard S.
February 12, 2008 12:26 PM | Link to this
I light of recent decisions by WSB-TV, I am taking WSB-TV off my DIRECTV Favorites List. My TV Commercial Viewing will no include WSB-TV. see ya, monica and you’re rainbow hair.
By Virginia S
February 19, 2008 9:27 AM | Link to this
I remember when i was about school age watching the parade on tv when i was sick and me and my mom and my sister watched it on tv every year. and since my children were born i watch the 4th of july parade on tv and havetaken my children downtown to the parade and grandkids so i will miss seeing on tv been 29 years first time i will miss it.