Dear Editor:
Last week, on the first Saturday in December, the Optimist, Kinsmen and Lions clubs of Fergus hosted the annual Fergus Santa Claus Parade. It was a blast.
A special shout-out to A.O. Smith, who generously donated their employee parking lot for the parade vehicles to assemble. You are the greatest! A special thank you to Cora from Elliot Bus Lines, who drove the “warming and registration” bus. Always on time …thanks.
We had possibly a record number of floats entered. Everyone was in the Christmas spirit and, despite the cold and wind, spent a great amount of time decorating their floats. We had local businesses, church groups, Fergus Army Cadets, youth groups, youth sports groups, dance troops, Diamonds’ in the Rough, last out, an Equine presentation with beautiful horses (and their bathroom mop up squad).
As parade marshal my job is to line them up and send them on their way in an order that best represents the parade (not sending out groups in batches, but spacing them out). Each year it is difficult, and I personally apologize if I left you to a later time to go, but all in all, the participants were wonderful and understanding.
The Grand 101 led, after the police, Legion colour party, Fergus Pipe Band, Fergus Army Cadets and CWFD – they have great rides. The CW Food Bank followed – and at this time of year, the need is greatest (due to the economy, the number of clients has more than tripled).
Fergus is a very caring and sharing community, and we hope the new residents will embrace this spirit of caring and be part of it. Santa followed the Fergus Brass Band, and was a hit, as he stopped to embrace all the young people as he made his way to his sleigh.
At this time of year, it is time to remember that Jesus is the reason for this season. The spirit of giving and getting together with family follows.
So to everyone out there, a very Merry Christmas, a happy holiday, or however you celebrate this season of hope, love, and happiness.
Be well and we will see you all next year.
JB Martin, parade marshall,
Fergus Santa Claus Parade