Who’s Who in Who-Ville?

By DIANNE ALWARD-BIERY

Cleaver Senior Staff Writer

HARRISON – Attendees at this year’s Dec. 12 Lighted Christmas Parade, sponsored by the Harrison Community Fire Department, once again braved some frigid temperatures. They did this to enjoy the efforts of those who worked so hard to create floats/entries, as well as take part in the community joy of children’s wonder in the presence of Santa Claus.

The theme of “Who-Ville” brought out the community’s creativity, with the Grinch leading off with his characteristic theft of Christmas presents from the kind folks of Who-Ville.

Winner of the Most Lights category was Up North Coffee, and winning the Best Use of Theme was Clare County Central Dispatch, whose tag line was “Even the Grinch calls 9-1-1 in a pinch.”

The parade itself was brisk as well, taking only 28 minutes from its start to Santa’s arrival – perhaps the most eagerly-awaited part of the parade. [Yeah, the kids were looking forward to seeing him, too.] As the parade ended, Santa departed his horse-drawn sleigh and entered The Venue on Main where he sat on his throne chair and listened intently to the wishes of dozens of children, then posed genially for photos. Upon completion of their audience with the Jolly Old Elf, each child received a candy packet. Pictured here are some of the many children who enjoyed their visit with Santa. The children and their families were then treated to a buffet meal and desserts provided by Longer Table.

Interestingly, near the end of Santa’s chat time, an officer and the Grinch – laden with his stolen presents – up to Santa on his throne. The Grinch then apologetically returned the presents. Santa was gracious, and the officer guided the Grinch out of the building.

The only question remaining is “What will be the theme for next year?”