Franklin County Retail Merchants Association, Inc.

December 7, 2009

The 2009 Christmas Parade was held on a sunny December 6, 2009.  Despite the ecooler weather an estimated crowd of 10,000 was on hand to watch the parade and gather the candy tossed out by the parade entrants.  Young and old alike seemed to enjoy having a bit of candy come their way as they stoodwatching the parade.  Officials said they regocnized people from surrounding counties that had come to town to watch the parade.  There were 103 entrants in the parade, with 26 judged participants.  Those best representing the theme of the parade seemed to come out on top of the judging.

The first place "Best Overall" winner was Redwood Ruritan Club with second place best overall going to Franklin Heights Baptist Church Youth Group.  Mount Pleasant Christian Church garnered an Honorable Mention.

First Place for "Most Unusual" went to Boy Scout Troop #130 & Boy Scouts Pack #130, with second place going to Aladdin Temple III Prince Hall Shriners.

December 20, 2010

December 5, 2010 turned off cold and wet and our parade had to be postponed.  December 12 did not see any improvements, postponed again.

December 19 turned out to be a good day to hold a parade and off it went.  The number of entries decreased from the number that would have been in it if December 5 had been good, however the parade went smoothly and it seemed that people were able to get in and out of town quickly pre- and post- parade.  Lots of candy was distributed and a lot of happy faces were seen.  As always, Santa rode high in the Fire Engine from Company #1, to bring up the end of the parade.