Return to 'Christmas' parade upsets some
By: ADAM KAYE - Staff Writer | ∞
ENCINITAS ---- A yearly event intended to bring cheer to the community has instead brought rancor because the mayor decided to change its name. Mayor Dan Dalager, a lifelong resident of this thriving coastal city, has caused a tiff by renaming the city-sponsored Encinitas Holiday Parade as the Encinitas Christmas Parade.
Three groups have told the city they won't participate because of the change, but Dalager, a Christian, says he won't change it back and that the Encinitas Christmas Parade will proceed as scheduled on Dec. 3.
The event begins with a 5 p.m. tree-lighting ceremony at The Lumberyard shopping mall on South Coast Highway 101 at I Street. The parade itself runs south along the highway starting at D Street.
Exercising what he said is the mayor's prerogative, Dalager months ago instructed city staffers to rename the parade.
Because of the change, the local Girl Scouts Seacoast Service Unit, Leucadia Town Council and Bernese Mountain Dog Club of Southern California have told the city they will not participate, said Chris Hazeltine, director of parks and recreation.
The name change also has drawn sharp criticism from the rabbi at an Encinitas synagogue.
Hazeltine said 82 groups have applied to participate this year, down from 95 the year before.
The city pays $37,500 to cover security, set-up, waste collection and other costs associated with the parade, he said.
The City Council never took formal action to rename the parade.
It should have, critics say.
Beyond that, they say, the name "Encinitas Christmas Parade" is not neutral for a publicly sponsored event and individuals or groups that aren't Christian could feel out of place or unwelcome.
Dalager, 54, dismissed those claims.
"This is not a religious parade," Dalager said. "This is about shared societal values, about slowing down, about giving gifts, about shared family values, shared heritage and tradition."
"I changed it back"
Dalager said the event was known as the Christmas parade years ago.
Keepsake coffee mugs and yellowed clippings of the Encinitas Coast Dispatch from 1963 and 1967 ---- which Dalager showed to a reporter last week ---- prove his point.
One photo spread shows the event as being named "The Spirit of Christmas Parade."
"The first 50 years of my life I went to the Encinitas Christmas Parade," Dalager said. "Somewhere, somehow ---- nobody seems to know who ---- somebody changed it. I changed it back."
Dalager said the decision was his alone.
In a related move, and also without public debate, Dalager before last Easter changed the name of the city's Spring Egg Hunt to the Easter Egg Hunt. That change did not lead to public controversy.
Both changes, Dalager said, have caused very little negative reaction.
"I've been getting calls from all over the county and haven't gotten a single bad call," he said.
A tradition worth keeping?
At Temple Solel, by contrast, "I've certainly heard many, many concerns from congregants," Rabbi David Frank said.
The name change, Frank said, is "ill-conceived and inappropriate."
The temple serves some 800 families.
Students from the temple have organized a letter-writing campaign opposing the switch, he said.
Frank said he did not know if students, through their affiliations with clubs and auxiliaries, would or would not march.
He said the City Council should have debated the matter publicly.
"At that point, the public would have the opportunity to weigh in and we could see what the citizens of Encinitas want their holiday to reflect," Frank said. "This change doesn't reflect what I think our city is all about."
Dalager's feelings of nostalgia have no place in policy-making, he said.
"To say this is a return to tradition and the way things ought to be is reminiscent of other things that used to be, such as covenants in parts of San Diego that excluded certain minorities," Frank said. "I don't think it would be wise to return to those traditions."
The change also upset Jennifer Zaayer of Cardiff, vice president of the Bernese Mountain Dog Club of Southern California.
For the past number of years, club members and their dogs have marched the parade route.
Zaayer said it's ironic that the mountain dogs are natives of Switzerland, a country known for its neutrality.
"I think of Encinitas as a really open, progressive, tolerant community," said Zaayer, who said she is an atheist. "As an Encinitas citizen ---- away from the (dog) club ---- I feel very strongly about the separation of church and state. It's freedom of religion and freedom from religion."
The regional club of more than 100 members throws its own yearly party and calls it a "holiday" party so no one feels excluded, she said.
"Still, a Hindu member questioned if he was allowed to participate," Zaayer said, "and we assured him it was not a religious event."
Other residents could feel just as confused about the meaning of a get-together called the Encinitas Christmas Parade, she said.
"When you're part of the majority you don't realize how pervasive discrimination is," Zaayer said. "It is really easy to say, 'What's the big deal?'"
The pages of history
The controversy appears to be a product of a politically correct age.
Christmas parades on the Coast Highway began in the 1920s, decades before the city's incorporation in 1986.
The parade originally was a daytime event; merchants' concerns of losing parking prompted its rescheduling to the early evening.
Merchants and the chamber of commerce are said to have organized the original parades.
In the early 1990s, when the young city took over production of the event, the name "Christmas Parade" was dropped for the neutral-sounding "Holiday Parade."
This year's grand marshal is Wendy Haskett, a historian and one of Encinitas' most prolific chroniclers.
Her Sunday "Backward Glance" column is a mainstay of the North County Times.
Haskett unearthed a bounty of parade anecdotes in a Nov. 13 column.
She reported that TV personality Regis Philbin served as grand marshal one rainy year, and that on his talk show later he likened the experience to "Riding into the Valley of Doom."
On a bright parade day in 1946, a 12-year-old participant arrived soaking wet because her horse had trotted into the ocean, Haskett wrote.
Former Gov. Goodwin Knight led the parade in 1954 and actor Ewing Mitchell of Cardiff once delighted children with an appearance.
Haskett quoted Dalager saying jokingly that a 1964 parade photograph of Oak Crest Junior High School's band showed that he was the only one who marched in step.
Dalager said last week that when he was a boy, he marched once in an Encinitas Christmas parade with a Jewish boy.
He said he feels "really badly" that some Girl Scouts have pulled out of the parade.
"This parade is for the kids," he said.
The parade ---- and Christmas ---- also have other meanings, Dalager said, emphasizing his feelings for family unity and shared traditions.
"Holidays like Christmas are either about heritage and tradition and shared values or they're about sales at Macy's," he said. "I'll be darned if I tell our kids the only reason we have Christmas is to be consumers. There's more to it than that."
Encinitas Christmas Parade
Saturday, Dec. 3
Contact staff writer Adam Kaye at (760) 943-2312 or akaye@nctimes.com.
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Cal D wrote on Nov 27, 2005 12:31 AM:I agree with reclaiming the Christmas title. Would there even be a parade if Christmas wasn't celebrated? Let's get real. This parade is for and about Christmas. I'm not going to side step this either: Christmas is about celebrating the birth of Jesus, Christ the Savior, the Son of God. It's great that other facets of society and even other non-Christian religions want to get involved. Go evangelism! To say that a "Christmas Parade" is discriminating and exclusive is totally incorrect. Christians welcome those of other faiths with open arms. If anything, Christians have a wonderful desire to welcome all people that do not know Jesus. If non-Christians choose not to participate, I have great faith that this parade will go on. I invite all that do not believe to see what all the talk is about. There's more to Christmas than political correctness and Santa Claus. Merry Christmas!
Neal wrote on Nov 27, 2005 6:22 AM:At last! A political person who speaks for the majority! The mayor for governor!
Rikter wrote on Nov 27, 2005 7:38 AM:I for one am glad to see that someone took it upon themselves to rename the Encinitas Holiday Parade back to its original name of Encinitas X-mas parade. This is not a religous parade but, an event of bringing family and friends together for the kids. Look at Hollywood, they have been calling it Hollywood X-mas parade for many, many years with no complaints. In fact, that parade is airing on national television been called the Hollywood Cristmas Parade with over a million people attending and receiving no complaints. This is a national televised event which starts at 5:30 p.m. today 11/27/05. I do not hear the our country complaining.
Bruce W wrote on Nov 27, 2005 8:56 AM:In this world, there are many things that I do not like or agree with. Oh well. It is obvious that the majority of Americans not only believe in God, but have no problem with Christmas. As for the minority that just wants their 15 minutes of fame and enjoy hearing themselves talk, it is time to grow up. I will say it, and I will say it proud: Merry Christmas!
george wrote on Nov 27, 2005 9:00 AM:No more Girl Scout cookies for me. Shame on you.
Jean wrote on Nov 27, 2005 9:40 AM:I drove over to my local Lowe's on Friday to purchase a few things. Imagine my suprise to see the sign out front declaring Holiday trees for sales! What holiday might that be? Christmas? Do we decorate trees for the forth of July? No. Every retailer in the world is happy to take my christian money to celebrate my christian holiday and yet we can't call it Christmas. This has gone too far.
Markus wrote on Nov 27, 2005 11:52 AM:Remember to celebrate Kwanzaa and Winter Solstice with good will towards fellow men and women! Happy Holidays!
Diane wrote on Nov 27, 2005 2:13 PM:I am so tired of this stuff!! CHRISTMAS IS CHRISTMAS!!! and if those who are 'offended' by CHRISTMAS then I hope they are at their place of employment on CHRISTMAS DAY working instead of having the day off! YOU ARE IN AMERICA, LIVE AS AN AMERICAN!! I don't celebrate kwanza or anything else other than CHRISTMAS and I will be working when others are having days off because of kwanza! Get a grip - you're in AMERICA people!! I'm glad to see someone actually had the nerve to do this! Companies don't set up CHRISTMAS trees in their lobby anymore for fear of offending someone! OFFEND AWAY! THIS IS CHRISTMAS!!!!!
Rich wrote on Nov 27, 2005 2:50 PM:Good for that mayor!! Christmas needs to be brought back to the people. He displayed memorabilia designated in as a Christmas parade dating back fifty years and no one seems to know when they went "politically correct" to holiday parade. Good for him and his citizenry. Thank you for standing up for what you feel is right!!
Jo wrote on Nov 27, 2005 2:56 PM:If many of the same people complaining about the Parade name this year..had been successful in 1986...the Cityhood Celebration Weekend would have been changed to suit them...and continued on until they got the Parade name changed about 1992.
Merry Holiday wrote on Nov 27, 2005 7:55 PM:Maybe the solution to ending complaints is to go back to the original way of organizing the parade - let the merchants and the chamber of commerce completely pay for it and call it whatever they want. The city should step out of the way and stop paying the $40,000 each year. If groups are unhappy, they can complain to the merchants.
Matilda wrote on Nov 27, 2005 8:17 PM:Three cheers for the mayor! He made a great decision. This is Christmastime - let us celebrate! No more Girl Scout cookies for my family.
Ed wrote on Nov 27, 2005 8:52 PM:I hope the City Council doesn't buckle under to a vocal minority. The winter holiday that the overwhelming majority of Americans celebrate is indeed CHRISTmas. It's sad that Rabbi Frank fails to see this. I think we can have a great parade without some "special" dogs and a few angst ridden Girl Scout parents.
Rob wrote on Nov 27, 2005 9:32 PM:As Neal wrote, 'at last, a politician who speaks for the majority'. I have a new found respect for our mayor. It's amazing how every fringe group in this country touts freedom of speech and freedom of expression, but only if you say or express something that does not in any way, shape, or form offend their poor little feelings in some ridiculous way.
Janine wrote on Nov 28, 2005 12:30 AM:Why does the Mayor have a problem with the term "Holiday Parade"? Is this not a nation ( and a city ) made of minorities? Shouldn't he strive to represent all? Several religions celebrate special "holy" days during December...why not include all respectfully by simply designating the parade a "Holiday" Parade? Compassion and understanding for all children, all people, should be what matters the most, not his personal religious agenda. Much has changed since the 60's... awareness of many levels of discrimination being one. We need to grow forward, not backwards in effort to elevate us all to a more spiritual society, no matter what religion one self declares. People shouldn't even need to complain to be understood.
Writer wrote on Nov 28, 2005 4:51 AM:The North County Times Poll results indicate at more than 80% of those polled support Christmas as opposed to Holiday. With that level of support, even astute athiest politicians will support Christmas. It's a no-brainer!
Cool!! wrote on Nov 28, 2005 1:09 PM:Good job mayor. Don't listen to the noisy minority!!
Fred Goodwin wrote on Nov 28, 2005 1:35 PM:I am not a resident of your fair city, so I hardly feel qualified to opine on the propriety of the parade name. But there's one thing I can foresee: it won't be long before those Scrooges at the ACLU come calling. What a sad day that will be.
Mickey wrote on Nov 28, 2005 1:44 PM:I doubt that there'd be much controversy over why we have the holiday in the first place. It's Christmas, you dummies! If you want a holiday parade, go start one. The rest of us can continue going to Christmas parades.
cheryl wrote on Nov 28, 2005 1:54 PM: Good for the Mayor, we need more politicans like him. Not afraid to stand up for some of the traditions and beliefs that made America strong. America was formed as a Chrisitan nation. Shame on the Girl Scouts! No more girl scout cookies... Sorry! If you can't stand up for your great country, I can't support you.
Gary H wrote on Nov 28, 2005 1:54 PM:Great decision Mayor! Every calendar I have shows December 25 as Christmas, just as it shows Thanksgiving, Easter, Valentines, Independence Day, etc. so why not celebrate the days for what they represent. He is right to go back to the roots of history...all the way back. I trust the silent majority will show up and support the Christmas parade and the Mayor on his decision.
Rebecca wrote on Nov 28, 2005 2:15 PM:Good for Mayor Dalager.
Mike wrote on Nov 28, 2005 2:35 PM:The Mayor made a wise choice. If we continually dilute tradition and the values that have made this country great we will lose our sense of where we have come from, we will lose our future direction because we will have no foundation and focus. Christmas is a time for the community to come together, to give and serve others less fortunate, to enjoy family gatherings, for many to celebrate their faith, and to count the blessings we do have. DON'T Forget it!! If we do forget, we will lose what we have. God will surely withhold His blessing if we forget Him!
Jim wrote on Nov 28, 2005 2:54 PM:Part of celebrating diversity includes the opportunity to mingle with those unlike you, majority or minority, and celebrate their special occasions. If a group becomes offended because another group's celebration is not about them, then we see how an emphasis on diversity may have eroded into group narcissism. Majorities deserve their stand alone days without having to change them for inclusion's sake. Tolerance that is demanded must be reciprocated, or it is not really a demand for tolerance but dominance.
Jeannie AKA Grandma wrote on Nov 28, 2005 3:03 PM:Good for you, Mayor Dan Dalager! I don't really believe that the one Girl Scout Unit speaks for all Girl Scouts. (or do I just not want to give up those delicious thin mint cookies?) When store clerks greet us this year, with their compnay-mandated "Happy Holidays" wish, Let's be sure to return a "Merry Christmas'!!
sal wrote on Nov 28, 2005 3:12 PM:good for you mayor and thank you. i would love to see rabbi lapin write to rabbi frank and discuss the entie matter with him.merry christmas
Regina wrote on Nov 28, 2005 3:33 PM:God bless the mayor. MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE.
Ron wrote on Nov 28, 2005 4:58 PM:Thank you Mayor Dan Dalager for fighting back on the war on Christmas. In fact I recommend FOX News commentator John Gibson's new book. "The War on Christmas". These political correct people just don't get it. If it weren't for Christians and Christmas all this celebration, parades, trees etc. wouldn't be happening. If these complainers want a parade let them start their own. They just want to rain on our parade. No one would show up at theirs! God Bless and Merry Christmas.
Geralyn wrote on Nov 28, 2005 5:43 PM:Hip Hip Hoorah and a Merry Christmas to all...
Brent Spence wrote on Nov 28, 2005 5:45 PM: Finally! Someone with some common sense. Kudos to you sir, and we are in your corner. Signed, The majority
Jeannee wrote on Nov 28, 2005 6:36 PM:Yeah, Mayor! Any rotten tomatoes you take, pray for that person!
Glenda wrote on Nov 28, 2005 6:36 PM:Thanks Mr Mayor for standing up for the right. MERRY CHRISTMAS to you and yours.
Nan wrote on Nov 28, 2005 6:57 PM:Ditto what Jim said above. Bravo Mayor. Merry Christmas. Say it.
Gary wrote on Nov 28, 2005 7:30 PM:God bless the good mayor for his common sense and refusal to surrender the majority population's traditions to the demands of disgruntled minorities. I hope it's catching...all over the country.
Diane wrote on Nov 28, 2005 7:43 PM:Hooray for the Mayor - standing up for Christmas! You must all realize, that if we celebrated and honored Christ's birthday, in a simple display of homage and respect, and boycotted all the commercialism, we WOULD get the attention of the stores, politicians, news media, etc. Personally, we will be celebrating Christ's birth - very low key, gifts will be minimal, practical, and wherever possible, homemade. Let those responsible for taking "Christmas" out of Christmas, take it on the chin, and answer for their poor but "Politically Correct" decision.
MAggie wrote on Nov 28, 2005 8:11 PM:Bravo for the Mayor! At last someone with guts to speak for the majority of us who beleive that this country was founded on the Judeo-Christian belief.You don't like a Christmas parade then create your own"dog"parade or "cookie" parade or whatever you want to call it.It has gone way too far.The otherday i picked up a Christmas ornament at Macy's only to find out that it was made in China and that it was called a "holiday ornament"I just want to ask which holiday are we talking about? Why would anyone be afraid of the word "Christmas"?After all it is the birth of a baby we're talking about.I repeat,a baby...Unless this baby is going to grow up and scare the hell out of you. Ask yourself is this why? Christ is in Christmas and that is why the name scares you.Face it!
Jeff wrote on Nov 28, 2005 8:13 PM:GOD BLESS Mayor Dalager. It is time for all Christians to stand up and be heard. If we don't, then we will continue to face discrimination and oppression. Replacing "Christmas" with "Holiday" is absurd!!! Where does it end???? Although I cannot be there for the parade, I will be there is spirit!
Mike F wrote on Nov 29, 2005 2:13 AM:If I could say it any better than Cal D did on the 27th, I would attempt it! Jesu is the reason for the season and all are welcome to march and celebrate with us! Love and Amen.
Brent wrote on Nov 29, 2005 6:03 AM:This has got to be the most rediculis thing that I have ever heard of. This is America. Our traditions are long standing and we as Americans have fought and bled to keep them. Christmas is a national holiday celabrated by all Americans. When you come to America you conform to the traditions and laws of this country. We do not have to change our country to conform to those few that do not believe in the Christian foundations that this country was built on. It is funny to me that all these people that want to complain about Christmas still celibrate it. It is true that December 25 is a holiday. It is a Christian holiday that has been set aside by this country to celibrate Christ's birth. If that offends you that is to bad. Maybe you could find another country to live in that has not been built on Christian values.
Bill wrote on Nov 29, 2005 6:37 AM:"Three cheers for the courageous mayor of Encinatas." I have wondered where courage in politics had wandered off to but apparently it still exists. My neighbor across the street here in Lake Oswego, OR is a mail carrier. Last week his wife, who is a staunch Christian, told me that the carriers had been told that from henceforth they should wish people on their route "Happy Holiday" as opposed to "Merry Christmas". If that is a national policy then it sounds like a case for Jay Seculo.
Susan wrote on Nov 29, 2005 7:08 AM:I comment Mayor Dalager for renaming your parade "Christmas". I am so glad to hear a Mayor standing up for what is right and what Christmas is all about. Political Correctness has gotten to be a joke when the original meaning and names of things are not longer upheld. Let's get back to basics and remember what this country is all about.
Janie wrote on Nov 29, 2005 7:17 AM:More power to you mayor!
PAT wrote on Nov 29, 2005 7:42 AM:I AM SO PROUD OF THE MAYOR FOR THAKING A STAND FOR OUR CHRISTIAN HERITAGE. WE CHRISTAIN NEED TO TAKE A STAND BEFORE ALL OUR VALUES ARE TAKEN AWAY. MY RESPONSE TO HAPPY HOIDAYS WILL BE MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY HOLY DAYS
Jay wrote on Nov 29, 2005 7:48 AM:Kudos and blessings on Mayor Dalager! His courage is refreshing, and it is wonderful to see someone in politics who is unapologetic for doing the right thing. All of those who refuse to say "Christmas", and who have waged war against this legal holiday, should put up or shut up. Let them not buy gifts, trees, lights, etc., and let them work on December 25. After all, it's just another day, isn't it? These mean-spirited, politically correct people have forgotten that over 200 years of American tradition can't be brushed aside. They are denying their own mantra of "tolerance." This is the spirit that has made America great- not so-called diversity, but peace on earth, good will toward men. (Oops, can I say that?)
Warren wrote on Nov 29, 2005 7:55 AM:I'm from Florida and have visited Encinitas and the San Diego area often. I too congratulate Mayor Dalager for his brave act. It is Christmas now and always. May the Mayors actions be repeated all over this land of ours. Merry Christmas citizens of Encinitas
Virginia Roesell wrote on Nov 29, 2005 11:20 AM:I live in Alexandria, VA but I am proud of the mayor for his stand. May his tribe increase. Any scrooges out there can have a seperate parade if they like, but we are celebrating Christ Mas here, not any other day. 3 cheers to you!
Mary wrote on Nov 29, 2005 11:44 AM:Thank you Mayor for keeping the Christmas spirit alive. Our son is in Iraq defending our freedom of which one of them is Christmas. A day set aside to thank almighty God for sending his only begotten son (John 3:16). The majority of people who want these values need and must speak out. God Bless you and MERRY CHRISTMAS to the world.
Andrew wrote on Nov 29, 2005 1:03 PM:More power to the Mayor. Even at twelve years old, I always find it disturbing when Christmas tree lots are labeled, ‘X-MAS TREE SALES.’ I don’t know if this is just to take CHRIST out of Christmas, or to save spray paint, or both. All I know is that when in numerous magazines, Christmas is only mentioned if they are trying to sell a book or a DVD with Christmas in the Title. ‘Happy Holidays’ is just not cutting it for me. Let’s leave it just how it was when the Christmas Holiday was created. I am so glad that our country has at least one good supporter of CHRISTmas. Use the power you have to get people thinking, Mayor Dalager, and Happy Holi..., I mean, Merry Christmas!
Leigh M wrote on Nov 29, 2005 1:23 PM:Perhaps all of the non christian citizens of Encinitas should not have to pay city taxes. If only the majority is going to be represented than only the majority should have to pay for it! The Mayor is not wise, is not brave, and is not just. Jesus was inclusive not exclusive.
Randy wrote on Nov 29, 2005 2:48 PM:Having read the previous posts, I am in complete shock. How many times was the word majority used? How many times was the name of Christ invoked? This parade was not intended for the majority, but for ALL. It is the duty of elected officials to attempt to represent ALL. And invoking the name of Christ is further proof that the motivation for such a change is exclusionary and sectarian. If you believe in the separation of church and state, there is no debate. And for those who seem to pine for the good old days, let's not forget witch hunts, slavery and outhouses. No thanks.
Laura wrote on Nov 29, 2005 4:15 PM:I am so glad a person that is in a position of politics isn't politicking! Can you imagine if other people insisted on the Jewish New Year or a Muslim day of worship or Quanza be changed in both title and essence to please other people that are not even a part of the culture? They wouldn't stand for it - and they shouldn't - just as we should not have allowed this to go so far and we are finally saying - no - this was originally a Holy Day given back to our Lord to honor Him and to pause and think of His Glory and Majesty and His immeasurable love for us. I feel that this Holy Season has so much "graffitti", it is no longer recognizable to even the Christians. thank you so much for reminding us of our duty to be different and to invite the world to the feast, but not to become unrecognizable.
JUSTICE wrote on Nov 29, 2005 5:25 PM:Everyone pay attention, I am only going to say this once IT IS FREEDOM [ OF ]RELIGION NOT FREEDOM [ FROM ]RELIGION Case Closed
Chris wrote on Nov 29, 2005 6:42 PM:I am so glad to see so many comments in favor of the Mayor's decision. It seems to have become "politically correct" to not be able to discriminate against any group of people EXCEPT Christians. There are other parades people can participate in. It they choose not to associate with the Christmas holiday, so be it, but that doesn't give a few vocal minority groups permission to deny the rest of the population from being able to celebrate this special day for what it is-a celebration of the birth of Christ. Perhaps Christians shouldn't buy Girl Scout cookies ?...
A Christian wrote on Nov 29, 2005 11:00 PM:I can't top all the spot-on comments posted here, so I will just voice my applause for the Mayor of Encinitas. Christmas does not exclude anyone. Christians are at the forefront of embracing everyone, regardless of their creed. Please share our holy day with us and know that we respect other holidays. However, this parade isn't religious in nature...it is in keeping with tradition and the spirit of the Christmas season. Merry Christmas to all!
Bob wrote on Nov 29, 2005 11:16 PM:Way to go Mayor Dalager! You are a true leader of the common people. I hope other leaders take note of your courage. Too often leaders only listen to the small vocal minority rather than the silent majority. Merry Christmas!
PAT wrote on Nov 30, 2005 4:27 AM:I LIVE IN GEORGIA, AND I JUST WANT TO TELL YOU HOW PROUD I AM OF YOU, MAYOR. CHRISTMAS IS CHRISTMAS, NOT A HOLIDAY. IN A DAY WHEN THERE ARE "HOLIDAY" TREES FROM LOWE'S, "WINTER HOLIDAYS", HAPPY HOLIDAYS AND SEASON'S GREETINGS, IT IS REFRESHING TO SEE SOMEONE STAND UP FOR THE MAJORITY FOR A CHANGE INSTEAD OF PANDERING TO A FEW MINORITY GROUPS. I SAY HALLELUJAH. IF YOU OTHERS DON'T LIKE CHRISTMAS, HEY, DON'T CELEBRATE IT. HAVE YOUR HOLIDAY! MERRY CHRISTMAS TO YOU ALL!
Wanda wrote on Nov 30, 2005 8:56 AM:In response to Markus' comment on 11/27, that is just it...I don't celebrate Kwanza or Winter Solstice because I am a Christian and celebrate the birth or our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, but I'm NOT trying to re-name any celebratory customs you may have nor do I feel excluded from any of those events. I just do not celebrate the same thing you do. You, in turn, do not have to celebrate the same events and participate in the same customs I or any other Christian does. We welcome you, but you are not required or obligated to do so. And the girl scout leaders/parents should jointly decide about the girls marching. It is a shame to deny all the privelege of being in the parade because a few have screamed "political incorrectness" and "exclusion". I think the mayor did a wonderful thing and I hope many other in governemnt offices will follow his lead!! Merry Christmas to all!!
Jim wrote on Nov 30, 2005 9:08 AM:Way to go mayor. All the way from Richmond Hill
Debbie wrote on Nov 30, 2005 12:33 PM:God bless you, Mayor! Here in Georgia, commonly referred to as "the Bible Belt," we're suffering the same lack of honor for our country, Founding Fathers, religious heritage and true "freedom OF religion" that you are. With a daughter who now makes her home in San Diego, I must laud you for being an example and taking a simple stand in a land not really known for its Christian heritage. Until Christians stand up and stand firm, we will continue to lose ground politically and individually until we must finally fight for the right to pray our own blessing over our own meal in our own homes. Look at where we have gone since O'Hare was successful in removing Bible & Prayer from schools. Furthermore, look at what happened to our schools! Not just coincidence. Anyway, from our coast to yours, Merry Christmas and God's blessings now and throughout the New Year!
Tim wrote on Nov 30, 2005 3:10 PM:MERRY CHRISTMAS MAYOR!!!!!! My 3 & 5 year old daughters will finally be able to go to a real CHRISTMAS PARADE!!!!!! If you don't like the word "Christmas", then certainly don't go shopping after Dec. 25th at all those "After Christmas Sales"!!!!!! Lowes has changed their position back to selling Christmas Trees!!!! We're starting to take back the Christmas tradition after all!!!! Merry Christmas Mayor Dan!
Mindy wrote on Nov 30, 2005 4:30 PM:I will be at the christmas parade to support the mayor and enjoy the fun. I encourage the christian community to be there also , let's stand up for what we passionatly believe!! God Bless and Merry Christmas.
Ashamed 11 year old wrote on Nov 30, 2005 6:24 PM:Well Mayor I hope your glad oh what you've done. You have excluded all the muslums and Jews and anybody else who doesnt beeive in Christmas. I have enough dignity to say, hey...I celebrate Christmas but this isn't fair to all the people who don't. This parade is now racist and unnecisarry. Are we going back to the time of religious descrimination? I think so, what you also did with the Spring Egg Hunt was also uncalled for. Naming it the Easter Egg Hunt was the worst I've seen yet. There is a reason why there are many people saying keep religion and state seperate. All i can say is that for a man of your intelligence you sure don't think about other people. I am very ashamed. Please consider changing the name of the parade and keep you personal opinons to yourself.
Ondrea wrote on Nov 30, 2005 9:59 PM:I agree with the Ashamed 11 year old. What a brave smart child. And kudos to the Girl Scouts! In reading many of the comments above, it amazes me how un-christian so many of the comments are. I can't believe the mayor and several of the other commenters stated that Christmas is a national holiday celebrated by all Americans. That couldn't be further from the truth. I think its a shame that so many people in our enlightened community are so small-minded, discriminatory, and exclusive. I guess the mayor's message is that if you don't believe what he believes then too bad. Not a very American attitude and not very Christian.
Mary wrote on Dec 1, 2005 6:58 AM:Hailing from the Omaha, NE, I'm in total agreement with the Mayor. I was raised a christian, but consider myself borderline athiest. HOWEVER, the religious celebration of Christmas has nothing to do with the tradition of a christmas tree. My christmas tree is one of my most beloved traditions and memories. To all the "holiday" supporters, I state that the christian holiday of Christmas is so far removed from the original concept, it's laughable to even look for comparisons in today's celebrations. Now days, it's simply an excuse for merchants to sell merchandise, Hallmark to sell cards/paper, the USPS to sell stamps and package mailing rates and the rest of the USA to go deeply in to debt for the next 12 months paying it all off (or perhaps declare bankruptcy and let you/me pay it off for them). And then it starts again. Hooray for the CHRISTMAS TREE! and the Christmas stockings, and the Chrismas day gathering with family, and the tradition of seeing the Christmas Carol play at the playhouse, oh, and the Christmas presents, too!
Nik wrote on Dec 1, 2005 8:37 AM:The problem with the Mayor's decision is that my tax dollars are now being used to subsidize a publically-funded event that discriminates against many of the very people that are forced to pay for it. Comparing the actions of the city government to what Lowe's, a retail business, is ridiculous on it's face.
A Proud Encinitas Citizen wrote on Dec 1, 2005 8:47 AM:Thank you, Mayor Dalager!!! Does all of this protest mean that you have replaced Santa Claus with Baby Jesus at the end of the parade??? Perhaps the atheists and others could use some help seeking a purpose in their lives. Merry Christmas!
Girl Scout Leader wrote on Dec 1, 2005 11:14 AM:As a Girl Scout Leader in Oceanside, the actions by the Seacoast Service Unit certainly do not reflect my feelings. I say congrats to the mayor of Encinitas for having the guts to "take back" Christmas. We need to remember the real reason we celebrate Christmas- the birth of Christ.
Wiseoldman wrote on Dec 1, 2005 12:57 PM:The problem with our society today when compared to 20+ years ago is that it seems everyone has lost their tolerance. Rather than accepting traditional things (like Christmas), they dedicate all their time and energy to negative energy by changing something to the way they want it. You can't please everyone in the world and the more we try the worse of we become. It would sure be nice to go back to the good old days when everyone was more tolerant of others traditions and beliefs.
Michele wrote on Dec 1, 2005 6:22 PM:Hooray for you Mayor Dalager!!!! I could not be prouder of your decision. Stay strong!!
Laura wrote on Dec 1, 2005 8:42 PM:Christmas is not about sales and trees. It does not have other meanings. For the mayor to say that is just silly. It is a religious holiday that doesn't happen to be mine. If there needs to be a christmas parade, its fine with me but the city shouldn't be paying for it with taxpayer dollars. Whats the big deal being inclusive of everyone calling it a holiday parade to include the holidays of the season? Why exclude people in this way? Would it be so difficult to light a menorah along with the lighting of the tree? Im shocked at how closed minded everyone is in this day and age to people of other faiths.
Laura wrote on Dec 1, 2005 8:47 PM:just because the majority celebrate Christmas doesn't make it the right decision when everyones taxpayer dollars are paying for it. Since there are so many of you, you should all chip in and pay for it then and then you can have Santa, your tree and all.
Rob D. wrote on Dec 1, 2005 10:09 PM: This is so funny. All of you that disagree with the mayor are the ones that are intolerant and obviously small minded. Whomever has helped nurture that 11 year olds belief's has done a questionable job. This is a 'CHRISTMAS PARADE' to celebrate Christmas. As far as I know this is also the only holiday that utilizes 'CHRISTMAS TREES'. You people are hilarious. If you could only really listen to what you are saying you might realize what true hypocrites you really are. If you want to have a Hannukah parade or a Ramadan parade I guarantee you there won't be any of the people who agree with the Mayor's way of thinking telling you that you need to change the name of your event. It is so ridiculous that it is almost unbelievable. You demand tolerance for anything that you believe in, yet have none for other persons beliefs if you don't share them. If you don't like the cross on Mount Helix, then don't look at it, if you don't like the phrase 'under God' in the Pledge of Allegiance, then don't say it. If you don't want to go to the Christmas parade, please don't. It shows no tolerance towards others for you to try to take those things away from all of us fellow Americans, the vast majority of us, who wish to keep those and other things that we believe in.
Libby wrote on Dec 2, 2005 7:41 AM:So-- what's next?-- a nativity set in a City park or-- perhaps a "Mt. Soledad" cross on the beach? How embarrassing & insensitive for Encinitas residents! If the tables were reversed, Christians would be up in arms too. Celebrate the religion of your choice in your church, in your home, send cards, whatever you want to do-- just don't do it with taxpayer dollars! Spread good cheer and the spirit of the season by welcoming everyone-- of all faiths-- to community events. Deliberately renaming the parade from "holiday" (that includes everyone) to "Christmas" (that deliberatly excludes non-christians) seems contrary to what the season is supposed to be all about. It just might be an interesting election next time Mayor Dalager! I dare say it's time to clean house.
The Grinch wrote on Dec 2, 2005 9:21 AM:Since nobody can seem to agree on the parade name, I'm surprised no one is suggesting to get rid of the parade altogether. We shouldn't be closing public streets for religious events anyways. Should we? Why should I be inconvienenced by a road closure for a parade. I should be able to drive my car on that street since my tax dollars pay for the maintenance of that road. Oh, that's right, I'll have a little tolerance like the rest of you should so that the parade can bring a little cheer and smiling faces to those little boys and girls it was really meant for. Merry Christmas and Bah Humbug (so not to offend the fellow Grinches out there)
Diana wrote on Dec 2, 2005 9:31 AM:Good for the Mayor! What 'holiday' is celebrated by approx 95% of Americans this time of year? CHRISTMAS!! What kind of tree is erected and decorated during this time? A CHRISTMAS TREE!! Everyone is free to join the Christmas celebration or abstain. Your choice. I have been waiting for the National GSA to speak out on this matter, haven't heard anything yet. Till they do I will no longer support the GSA. Diana
Christine wrote on Dec 2, 2005 10:19 AM:Kudos to Mayor Dan Dalager! As a former Girl Scout leader, I am ashamed of the Seacoast Service Unit for pulling their girls from this event. And for those people who are screaming against using the word "Christmas", are they willing to work every Christmas that doesn't fall on a weekend?
Sara wrote on Dec 2, 2005 10:30 AM:It is amazing that people are supporting a name change that blatantly discriminates against the minority. Stop saying that it is patriotic. Stop saying that it is an act of freedom. It is an act of intolerance and arrogance. You have no right to act like Christianity has been oppressed because the parade used to be called a Holiday Parade. You are the oppressors and this is just another way that you are excluding others. Happy Holidays!
Scott wrote on Dec 2, 2005 4:08 PM:Hats off to Dan Dalager. It's about time an elected official in this country had the backbone and the intestinal fortitude to stand up to the forces of divisiveness and animosity. The FACT is that there is NO doctrine of separation of church and state in the Constitution; it does not exist. It is a FACT that the brave men and women who came to and settled this country did so because they wished to practice their Christian faith in the way they believed. It is also FACT that the Founding Fathers of this wonderful nation were, almost without exception, Christian men. And yes, they were men. If any of that bothers you, frankly, that's too bad. You can't rewrite history.
Jesus wrote on Dec 2, 2005 6:08 PM:You turkeys keep me out of this.
Luc wrote on Dec 3, 2005 1:15 AM:Simple question: why not call it a HOLIDAY parade? Simple answer: because its a CHRISTMAS parade! For those who are so "tolerant" and "inclusive", why not tolerate Christmas too??? Why the double standard???Please join our celebration..be welcome...we love you!Merry Christmas!:-)
Kyle from Spring, Texas wrote on Dec 3, 2005 6:02 AM:Merry Christmas mayor and City of Encinitas.
Dan'l wrote on Dec 3, 2005 10:48 AM:Now I have A great excuse for not buying those Trans-fat filled overpriced suger gut bombs from those cute little girl scouts that come to my door. "You don't support the Christmas Spirit, I don't support you little "GRINCH SCOUT".
Elfie wrote on Dec 3, 2005 4:19 PM:If its a "Christmas" parade...why isn't it held on Christmas Day? Is the whole month Christmas? No, its the "Holiday Season". That's why it should be called a "Holiday Parade"! Wonder how many would show up on Christmas day for this Christian event? Polls say now, that only 24% even consider going. At least 4th of July parades are held on the 4th of July.
Tired of being a second class citizen. wrote on Dec 3, 2005 7:36 PM:How intolerant Brent and others like him are. Those who are not Christian should find a new country? Would he like to deport everyone who is not Christian? He forgets that this country's constitution requires that all people being treated equally, and not discriminated against because of religious belief. Just because Christians are the majority, does not mean the minority are any less important. I love this country, but all traditions are not sacred - such as slavery and segregation. Since many people feel that other religious groups can have whatever parade they want too, I'm wondering if they feel it would be okay to use city funds for a Hanukkah parade. I bet not.
Robert wrote on Dec 4, 2005 12:25 PM:I truely despise lables, but if someone were to give me one, I would be called an atheist. That being said, I fail to understand what the big deal is here. Christmas is a conglomeration of many traditions, most of which have absolutely nothing to do with the christian faith, but from several pagan holidays. The christians have adopted both the day and many of the customs in the hope of assimilating the non christians to their new holiday. One may say, the name itself implies a christian holiday, but what's really important here? To me, Christmas is a time for family and friends to get together and enjoy each others company. Christmas means something different for many. Who am I, or anyone else for that matter, to criticize another for how they spend their time?
John wrote on Dec 4, 2005 12:54 PM: I fully agree with the mayor's decision to restore the original name to the Christmas Parade. I admire the courage of the mayor to stand up to the bullies of political correctness. What could be more harmless than a Christmas Parade? Way to go, mayor!
cie/jackson,ga. wrote on Dec 4, 2005 6:07 PM:YOU GO MAYOR...CHRISTMAS IS A LEGAL, FEDERAL, SECULAR HOLIDAY.TO ALL THE INTOLERANT OBJECTORS....CHRISTMAS IS WHAT YOU WANT IT TO BE...90% OF AMERICANS CELEBRATE AND FOR ALL YOU INTOLLERANT PEOPLE...GET A GRIP, IF YOU DON'T WANT TO CELEBRATE....STAY HOME.
CIE/GA. wrote on Dec 4, 2005 6:18 PM:YOU GO MAYOR....CHRISTMAS IS A LEGAL, FEDERAL, SECULAR HOLLIDAY.....YOU CAN ENJOY IT ANYWAY YOU WANT...IT IS A TRADITION AND YOU SELFISH PEOPLE WANT TO BAN AN AMERICAN TRADITION...NO NO NO YOU ARE THE INTOLERANT ONES AND IF YOU DON'T WANT TO CELEBRATE AMERICAS' CHRISTMAS, AND THIS IS TO ALL OF YOU ALL OVER AMERICA, STAY AT HOME/.CHRISTMAS IS AMERICANS HOLIDAY AND WE ARE GOING TO CELEBRATE IT AND IT WILL BE CALLED CHRISTMAS.......
Daren wrote on Dec 5, 2005 7:30 AM:Christmas is back with a vengeance, baby. We who celebrate it will no longer be pushed around and intimidated.
Cynthia wrote on Dec 5, 2005 10:22 AM:More power to you, Mr. Dalager! Funny how it seems to be unacceptable to offend anyone except Christians!
Bernie H wrote on Dec 5, 2005 5:11 PM:Thank you Mayor Dalager! Merry Christmas! Merry Christmas! Merry Christmas to ALL!
Mysti wrote on Dec 5, 2005 7:06 PM:Way to go Mayor!! It is time for the "political correct" crowds to get lost!!!! This country is too tolerate of everything, except for the right things, especially Christianity & our Lord. If the liberal crowds keep pushing God out, our country will fall, just like Rome did. It fell due to immorality & sin. This country is on it's way to falling if we don't stand up for God. Bless the people who do want Him in their everyday lives. Many years ago, these problems wouldn't have been an issue. Why now? If anyone has noticed, the more we push God out of our lives, the worse our society has become. Some people have asked: "what about the atheists, the Hindues, etc." Well, if anyone has kept up with History...this country was founded on Christianity! Not any other type of "religon". Everything good comes from Christ: love, peace, kindness, helping others, faith, beauty, etc. Everything evil comes from Satan: theft, murder, lying, porn, gambling, alcohol, hate, etc. Let's pick God's side & not Satan's. Then we wouldn't have this problem about Christmas, & other problems as well. So again, God bless the mayor & others who stand for Christ!
Jeff wrote on Dec 5, 2005 7:28 PM:I find it hilarious that there are those who think their position is somehow morally superior because they favor calling the parade "holiday" instead of "Christmas". Yet there are some who might feel excluded because they don't believe in celebrating any holidays. I know a Jehovah's Witness who falls into this category. Maybe we should change the name to "winter" parade, or " December" parade, or maybe just plain parade.
Carlos San Diego wrote on Dec 7, 2005 11:48 AM:Merry Christmas and Great Job Mayor- Our County needs more people who stand up to the small 3% bullies and speak their God given conscious. People forget that Christmas is a Federal Holiday and hat's great having the original name back and putting a lump of coal on them scrooge’s stockings.
scott wrote on Dec 7, 2005 12:57 PM:suck it up liberals. It's called the Christmas parade because the floats are all about Christmas. If you don't like it, then don't go. Do not be offended. Besides, aren't liberals supposed to be accepting of the choices that people make? Well, accept the mayor's choice you big babies.
BMD fan wrote on Dec 8, 2005 9:02 AM:As someone who leans left and has a Bernese Mtn Dog -- why the fuss?? My goodness - I'm not a vetran, yet we go to that parade. I do not practice the Hindu or Buddist religions yet I go to their festivals. I am getting tired though of my kids feeling like using the word Christmas in this country is like using profanity. For goodness sakes grow up people. As for picking to battle over Holiday versus Christmas - Jeez - it's a parade. Get over it. Poor choice it was a great chance to show the beauty of our dogs and educate the public.
Mark wrote on Dec 14, 2005 6:50 AM:Great Going, Mayor! The insanely intollerant, march-in-lockstep with Karl Marx, PC crowd need someone to slap them down. MERRY CHRISTMAS to everyone, Happy Hannuka, also, which - by the way - comes AFTER Christmas this year. We SHOULD have a Hannuka parade, it's part of our combined heritage. As to Brian's alleged "intollgerance"< I feel that the atheists should be moved to one of the countries which advocates their belief system; say North Korea, Communist China, Vietnam, or Cuba, in which countries they KILL Christians for holiday celebrations. As to the Rabbi who complained, would you still be around to deny we Christians our Christmas Parade if in 1941 we had shrugged our shoulers and said, "Oh, well, Hitler's right."? You forget yourself, sir, and the decision of Christian America to support the re-establishment of Israel. For shame!
Thanks from Texas wrote on Dec 20, 2005 2:57 PM:Maybe in the next election this should be a debate point so that anyone who wants to change the name back to Holiday parade would not be elected. The one thing that makes this nation better than all other is Majority Rules because collective minds make better decisions than one mind. Why are Holiday parades only held during the Christmas Holiday. Do all those that oppose it being Christmas also not celebrate Christmas. You can't latch on to an established Holiday and then want it changed to suit you. As it has been stated numerous times, you just refuse to listen, it is about more than Christianity. It is about giving and family. And if you want to stop paying your taxes because you feel cheated then go ahead, we can build more jails.
Ellis wrote on Dec 4, 2006 10:09 AM:Jesus is not my savior and Dalager’s not my mayor. I do pay taxes which, unfortunately, were used to promote more than a spirit but, as others on this forum rightly noted, a proud - but what should be - a private religious belief. The Mayor feels his change of name to be a bold move, but it was in fact provocative, divisive and hardly inspired. The Mayor considered the name change to reflect a return to basic values and referenced support from constituents who feel their voices oppressed by "PC" liberals. I am neither a political liberal nor one wishing an open forum for those spewing anti-American rhetoric. I do, however, believe a truly inspired regional leader would have found a way to include rather than exclude more of the local populace. Dalager’s failed to act inclusively and all who are offended should work to see he isn’t reelected.
Cynthia wrote on Nov 1, 2007 2:28 PM:Christmas isn't Christmas when you take the Christ from the mas. Let's get Christ back into Christmas!
DiDi wrote on Jan 16, 2008 8:29 AM:I grew up in the Encinitas area...think I went to Pac View with the mayor even, and the Christmas Parade was always exciting and a great gathering. I'm grown and moved, but in my mind, all others are compared to that one. I can remeber when surfers were not politically correct either..and let's not talk about skateboarding on the sidewalk lol. So now there's a Woody parade? Get out there and enjoy each other and the place you live in and stop bickering! Any of you old folks (bet that's not politically correct either) remeber the big, big tree on the north end of town just north and across from La Paloma that used to be decorated for Chistmas?
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