By KATHERINE PETERSEN
The Sunnyvale Chamber of Commerce would like residents to turn out for the Olympic torch relay as it makes its way up El Camino Real on May 3.
Suzi Blackman, the chamber's executive director, said she may provide small flags for onlookers to wave while the torchbearers run through Sunnyvale as part of a route that stretches from San Jose to Foster City. Blackman has not finalized her plan, but said the chamber may buy between 4,000 and 6,000 flags to honor this occasion.
"I sure would like to see people get excited because it's a special event," Blackman said. She added that residents could pick up flags at the chamber if they showed up to cheer the runners along.
Blackman remembered seeing a parade-like atmosphere in San Jose during the 1984 Olympic relay. She said that event took place on a Saturday and doesn't know whether as many people will attend this relay, which will take place on a Friday.
Blackman would also like businesses along El Camino to participate by putting up red, white and blue displays or decorations.
"It's not just for patriotism. I just think the Olympics are a time when we can share international peace and work together," she said.
People from other countries could wave their flags as well to celebrate the international games, Blackman said.
Blackman conceded that the relay may cause slight disruption to El Camino businesses and to traffic although there will be a rolling roadblock.
This article appeared in the Sunnyvale Sun, March 27, 1996.
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