Officials are hoping community comes out to support two exciting events

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BY KRIS MCDAVID
Times & Transcript Staff

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MIRAMICHI - The weekend comes early for Miramichiers today with a full plate of events expected to bring out the masses lasting from sun-up to sundown.

This morning, thousands are expected to cheer on runners carrying the Olympic Flame as it enters the city at 10:36 a.m. for a two-part relay on both sides of the Miramichi River, with a massive celebration featuring a diverse lineup of local performers taking the stage on the track at James M. Hill High School from 10:05 a.m. into the early afternoon.

And at 6:30 p.m. organizers of the 24th Annual Miramichi Christmas Parade of Lights are hoping the expected 5,000 Olympic Torch party revelers will exchange some of their Olympic spirit for a little holiday spirit in time to catch the 30 expected entrees in the city's Christmas kickoff.

Historic Chatham Business District director Mavis Williamson said having the Olympic Torch Relay the same day as the Parade of Lights means a cheerful tone will be set early and hopefully that will equate to more people coming out for the parade.

Williamson said Miramichi's torch bearers have been named honorary parade marshals and the theme of this year's parade, 'Believe,' connects nicely with the Games' coincidental presence in the city.

Williamson said the Parade of Lights will make its usual rounds through the downtown Chatham core: from University Avenue, left on Hospital Street, right on Lobban Avenue, right on Duke Street, left on King Street, right on Water Street to Duke Street, left on Lobban Avenue and right on University Avenue.

As has been customary for much of the parade's existence, the convoy of brightly lit floats and spirited marching bands will pass the Mount St. Joseph Nursing Home, which Williamson said is a treat for both the seniors and those in the parade.

A team of volunteers from the Miramichi Leader will be collecting non-perishable food items for the Stuff a Bus food drive in conjunction with the Christmas Food Hampers initiative.

And of course, a certain jolly, elfish fellow in a plush red suit will make his usual cameo appearance.

"I think it's safe to say Santa's the star of the show," said Williamson.

Meanwhile, Miramichi Olympic Torch Relay committee director Veronique Arsenault said the city is ready to roll, rain or shine, with the arrival of the Olympic Flame near the Miramichi Mall on King George Highway

Traffic will be restricted on Victoria Street and Henderson Street near James M. Hill to allow easy access for the large number of buses that will be going in and out of the drop-off site.

Therefore, the city is asking the public to enter the celebration site through the area near the Lord Beaverbrook Arena on University Avenue. The Centennial Bridge will also be closed to traffic from 12:30-12:45 p.m.