PORTSMOUTH, Va. – The City of Portsmouth is getting ready for numerous celebrations that will take place on Monday, October 17th.
The City and Missy Elliott, a talented musician and Portsmouth native, will be hosting the renaming ceremony where she will be recognized with the renaming of a section of McLean Street to “Missy Elliott Boulevard”. She will also be presented with a key to the city.
Portsmouth City Manager Tonya Chapman expressed her excitement and immense pride in Missy’s achievements, stating, “We are thrilled to have the opportunity to celebrate her accomplishments right here in her hometown of Portsmouth, Virginia.”
A pep rally, which will be open to the public, will take place at Manor High School where Elliott graduated. Manor Principal Dr. Timothy Johnson, who began his teaching career at the school the same year Elliott graduated in 1990, expressed his excitement to host the event along with the students.
Dr. Johnson expressed, “I had a conversation with her a few weeks back. I conveyed our immense pride in her accomplishments.” Additionally, he mentioned, “Both she and our students are filled with excitement. As we converse in the corridors, their voices resonate with enthusiasm when they spot me holding the sign, exclaiming, ‘That’s Missy! That’s Missy!'”
Principal Johnson stated that during the pandemic, some competitions sent fees to students and seniors put up yard signs. She also mentioned that they have used the money for various spirit-related items. Additionally, she mentioned that she has donated a total of $55,000. She made a $25,000 donation and took photos with the students. Johnson told 3 News that a few years ago, he toured Elliott around the school.
On Monday, the gathering conducted at Manor High will showcase their musical ensembles performing at all three Portsmouth high schools. The Marching Band of Norfolk State University, Hampton University Marching Band, and Elizabeth City State University Marching Band will be highlighted in the procession.
Governor Glenn Youngkin and Congressman Bobby Scott will pay tribute to Missy Elliott and her achievements. Mayor Shannon Glover of Portsmouth will present her with a key to the city. Virginia’s very own Pusha T, Trey Songz, and Timbaland will join Elliott in this special event.
The City Council of Portsmouth unanimously voted to rename a portion of the street currently named McLean Street to Missy Elliott Boulevard, serving as a future location for Portsmouth Rivers Casino and College Community Tidewater Center at Shopping Crossing Victory.
The demonstration is complimentary and accessible to all individuals. It will commence on Monday at 3:30 p.M. At Manor High School, located at 1401 Elmhurst Lane.
The Portsmouth Police Department is also informing about possible traffic disruptions in the Hodges Manor region because of the dedication and celebration.
According to officials, there will be an expansion of the number of lanes from Portsmouth Boulevard to Airline Boulevard. They state that between 1-3 p.M. On Monday, eastbound traffic will proceed.
Also, McClean Street (soon to be named Missy Elliot Boulevard) will be closed from Airline Boulevard to the entrance of Victory Crossing. Individuals who want to visit Victory Crossing during this period can utilize Victory Boulevard to gain entry.
PPD officials inform News 3 that Elmhurst Lane, stretching from Sequoia Road to Brunswick Road, and Cherokee Road, spanning from Baskerville Road to Logan Drive, will be closed from around 1 p.M. To approximately 5 p.M.
Those who want to attend the dedication of Missy Elliott Boulevard can approach by taking Elmhurst Lane from Airline Boulevard.