ROCHESTER — City Manager Blaine Cox and Mayor Caroline McCarley report that the City of Rochester is canceling the annual Rochester Skyhaven Wings and Wheels event as a result of planning complications caused by the ongoing COVID-19 outbreak.
“Logistically, planning and preparing for this event has become unrealistic for our city at this time, as we are fully focused on the needs of our community in light of COVID-19,” City Manager Cox said. “It’s truly regrettable, because this event is always a time of joy and community spirit, but with businesses closed, ongoing social distancing efforts, and the resources being dedicated to combating this virus, Wings on Wheels simply can’t be a priority.”
Each year, the Rochester Skyhaven Wings and Wheels event offers a family-friendly car, motorcycle and aircraft show, featuring a variety of activities and entertainment options for residents. Wings and Wheels is a combined effort by multiple organizations, including the Rochester Police Department, Rochester Rotary, Skyhaven Airport and Pease Development Authority.
“This decision has not been made lightly by any means, but it’s imperative that we make decisions that prioritize efforts to protect the health and wellbeing of our community,” Mayor McCarley said. “Wings and Wheels is an event that our community holds near and dear, and will be greatly missed this spring. We thank residents for their understanding and are committed to renewing this tradition in 2021.”
This year, the event was scheduled to take place Saturday, June 6, at Skyhaven Airport on Rochester Hill Road.
COVID-19, the illness caused by the novel coronavirus, has been declared a Global Pandemic by the World Health Organization and has moved Governor Chris Sununu to declare a State of Emergency in New Hampshire and President Donald Trump to declare a National Emergency.
For the latest updates from City officials regarding the novel coronavirus emergency, visit the City website at www.rochesternh.net and the Rochester News and Events Portal at rochesterportal.com.
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