Hello Everyone-
This is a long update but I encourage you to really read the "READ BELOW THIS IS IMPORTANT" section.

As promised I reached out to the city today and I have hear back from the President of the Chamber, Raymond Burns, Director of Community Development for the City of Rogers, John McCurdy, and Mayor Hines. 

While everything is looking promising I feel we have some questions that need answered before we take the petition down. 

Here is a quick few-sentence synopsis of what each person said, I am drastically summarizing:
Chamber President Burns: He loves the parade, it's not going anywhere, and he knows I'm talking with Mr. McCurdy and the Mayor so feels I can handle my thoughts with them.

Director of Community Development John McCurdy: Love the parade and cherishes it as well. He has never heard anyone say it will never happen. I can forget the rumors we are hearing. BUT THEY ARE NOT SURE HOW IT IS GOING TO BE FUNDED. (please read the emails)

Mayor Hines: As long as he is Mayor the parade is not going anywhere and that things like this petition create a distraction to the city and spreads misinformation.

***READ BELOW THIS IS IMPORTANT*** 
I have attached a Google Drive link that contains copies to all the communication I am currently having with all the parties mentioned above. That way you can read their exact words and my exact words for yourself.

Here are the questions I feel we need answered: (see McCurdy's email thread)

Excerpt taken from emails (myself talking to McCurdy)

--Regarding your statement from your email, “The only shift is in how the parade is funded and executed, and what the city’s role will be going forward”

Correct me if I am wrong, as I may be, but Downtown Rogers Inc. is to be dissolved and the funds allocated from that Chamber program, $100,000, and shifted to the City of Rogers. It is my understanding that those funds are going directly into your department, Community Development. If the funds still exist and are just being shifted from the Chamber to the City, why is there even a question as to “how the parade is funded.” This statement implies the funds may not be there for the parade. Can you elaborate on this a bit more for me?
Additionally, if the City is not sure “how the parade will be funded” what is the backup plan to obtain funding? Will funding the parade then be pushed to the potential organizations that may take over the organization and planning?

I completely understand the City may not be able to take on organizing and planning the parade, due to staff bandwidth, and thus it may be outsourced to other organizations.Sorry for all the questions I just want to fully understand the anticipated plan of action, any current plan of action, and any alternative plans of action or pivots that may arise.--

I have also asked Mayor Hines to weigh in on these questions as well as talk about misinformation and love for community. (AGAIN PLEASE PLEASE READ THE EMAILS)

I will update you tomorrow should we find out some more answers!