By Marianne Mueller

CHRIS ANDERSON PHOTO The Journal
Floats adorned in holiday cheer and beautiful colors were part of the Light Up The Parks Parade on Sunday, Nov. 21.

Bright Christmas magic came alive as floats, decorated cars, and Christmas style inflatables rolled down a parade route on Sunday evening, Nov. 21 as the Light up the Parks parade rolled through the area.

Cold weather and strong winds failed to keep crowds of spectators from enjoying the fun and splendor of the event. To warm up bodies and minds, Church of Christ offered hot chocolate and opened their doors for the public to use restrooms or to warm up.

The parade route began at the GE Aviation parking lot on Clifford Ave. The route traveled north on Elm Ave. turning onto Roosevelt Road then finishing the route at Machesney Crossing.

Greetings of “Merry Christmas” and “Happy Holidays” were heard as the parade proceeded. Candy was thrown from floats or handed to younger generations.

One of the highlighted participants is the Free Spirit Demo team. In the back of a decorated dog sled team truck bed sat inflatable Huskies. Live huskies, along with volunteers and past adopters, donned lights on their clothing as they walked the parade route.

Utility trucks and street plows showed up in full swing of the Christmas spirit. An ultra large Schnucks shopping cart captured attention once again. Harlem Township carried an inflatable Santa on their float.

Creating sounds of season was the Harlem Middle School marching band. Boy Scout Troops joined in the fun.

Plenty of mascots caused everyone to smile including a life size French fry that went with a Beef-A-Roo unit.

Surprise entertainment came in the form of remote control cars riding on the street. The Ski Broncs joined in the spirit as part of the parade.

Dolphin Swim Club detailed colorful lights that surrounded a dolphin likeness on top of a car. Trickie Enterprises had a float that brought the holiday feeling to life. Cimco added eye-catching flair to their vehicles.

Adding something for any age person one of the floats featured Big Bird, Sponge Bob, and Frosty the Snowman.

Rows of fire trucks represented different fire departments; some featuring fancy lights and Christmas music.

Politicians Dave Vella and Steve Stadelman took part in the festivities.

At the Machesney Park Town Center Mayor Johnson welcomed everyone to the tree lighting. Following selections by Christmas carolers, Johnson led in a five second countdown until a 30 ft. tall tree was lit up plus a few smaller trees. Santa and Mrs. Claus came in on a stunning float led by reindeer and loaded with snowflakes, Christmas trees and overall cheer. They greeted young ones and young at heart. As a bonus the opportunity to write and to leave letters to Santa could be delivered on site.

Gleason Cutting Tools won honors under the category of “Best Business Award.”  Loves Park Lions Club were chosen as “The Best of Community” award winners. Carlson Boys and Girls Club earned the “Youth Award.” The “Mayors Award went to Hobby Town.

Keeping up with this year’s tradition the parade and tree lighting are organized by the Parks Chamber of Commerce.

Rockton residents Keith and Kim Robertson attended with friends. “My wife and I were invited to the Machesney Park Tree lighting and parade last weekend. We accepted with pleasure since I love the community experience of seeing the various companies, groups, schools, and groups in the area,” Keith Robertson said.

He adds, “I am glad that I wore layers, since it was a frosty evening, but we chose a spot to watch the parade by the church. It was a thoroughly enjoyable evening with children scampering for candy, festive floats, and the usual dependable participation of the fire and police departments. Thank you to everyone for your hard work; we are looking forward to next year!”

 
 
 
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