Organizer says that number is smaller than normal, but he’s still happy

Half of the Dallas City Council has signed on to ride in the 25th anniversary of the Alan Ross Texas Freedom Parade on Sunday, Sept. 21.

“It’s not as many as we’ve had in the past, but I’m very satisfied with the number we have planning to attend,” Dallas Tavern Guild President Michael Doughman said.

Those in attendance will be: Mayor Pro Tem Elba Garcia, Pauline Medrano, David Neumann, Steve Salazar, Carolyn Davis, Ron Natinsky and Angela Hunt.

Police Chief David Kunkle, Fire Chief Eddie Burns and Sherrif Lupe Valdez will also be in the event.

“I’m very satisfied with the people who will be there because those are all people who do significantly support diversity in our community,” Doughman said.

And for the ones who won’t be there — Deputy Mayor Pro Tem Dwaine Caraway, Vonciel Hill, Tennell Atkins, Sheffie Kadane, Jerry Allen and Mitchell Rasansky:


“We don’t ask why or what the reason is. We think that the presence or absence speaks for itself as far as the parade attendance goes,” Doughman said.

Only Hill’s office could be reached by press time. She will be out of town on that date.

“The simple fact, unfortunately, is that in this political climate a great percentage of our community won’t know one from the other anyway,” Doughman said.

“I try very hard to not make this a political event. It is a day of celebration for the community. We welcome those that come and we hope everyone has a good time,” Doughman said.

Dallas Mayor Tom Leppert, who walked the parade route last year about three months after he was elected, will not participate this year. He will be out of the country on a personal trip.

This article appeared in the Dallas Voice print edition August 29, 2008.