In the wake of Renfro's plant closing announcement and death of the town's beloved pharmacist, John Roche Sr., the revived Christmas parade is on the march to make Whitmire spirits at least a little brighter.
It's an annual event, with more in line to march and help this year.
In past years, the Whitmire Jaycees' Christmas parade was a success, Whitmire Christmas Parade Coordinator Hollingsworth says, but it was put on by the Jaycees alone, who work hard yearlong at their many other projects in addition to the December parade.
But in August, after Whitmire resident Jimmie Seymore requested a beefed-up parade like the ones he remembered as a child, citizens outside of the Jaycee group pitched in with the parade planning.
Before the Saturday parade, the new committee of around a dozen members will have met 13 times since August.
“The big difference is this year we've had an actual parade committee with volunteers from the community,“ said Hollingsworth. “That has gone to make this year's parade bigger and better.“
There are more floats, more businesses involved and even a parade Flintstones-mobile and Grinch cart, said Hollingsworth.
The parade starts at 1 p.m. on Railroad Avenue by the bridge, and goes along Main Street and ends at the Community Center.
The parade will last 30 to 40 minutes, Hollingsworth estimates.
So far, there are 82 entrants, including 14 floats, the Whitmire Community School marching band, politicians and eight beauty queens.
“I'm really amazed that we got 82 entrants,“ said Mayor Tim Carroll. “This is going to be one of the biggest parades we've had in a while.“
The grand marshall will be Drew Stewart, the WIS-TV personality who has survived cancer.
This year, the parade is in honor of Dr. and Mrs. Johnny Roche Sr. for their commitment to the community.
John Roche Jr. is slated to drive his father's black, 1954 Ford truck on the parade route.
John Roche Sr. was an avid Carolina fan, so the truck is decorated with Gamecocks, said Hollingsworth.
Before and during the parade, the Baker Senior Center on Main Street welcomes any senior citizen to come watch the event from its front porch and enjoy coffee and hot chocolate.
The center will have chairs set up outside where seniors can easily see the procession.
Afterwards, crafts and baked goods will be set up at the Community Center and the Whitmire Fire and Rescue Squad will serve free popcorn and drinks.
Santa will also be at the center for visits and photos with children. The 4 x 6-inch photos will sell for $5 and be printed onsite.
“I've really been pleased this year that so many businesses have made the investments to do the floats to represent their business and that they're able to do this considering the state of Whitmire's economy,“ said Hollingsworth. “We are looking forward to having a very successful parade this year and we just hope the weather cooperates.“
Post a Comment
