Barbara Roden
Free Press
The Grinch almost stole this year’s Santa Claus Parade, but thanks to the determination and hard work of local residents Kristy Anderson and Cheralyn Herrmann, the parade is going ahead at 6 p.m. on Nov. 20, in conjunction with Moonlight Madness and Starry Nights 3.
In 2013, the two women had spoken about trying to stage the Western Week Parade, which had been cancelled due to lack of volunteers.
“I was thinking about organizing it myself and Cheralyn was on board to help,” says Anderson.
The short time frame meant it was impossible to organize the parade, but when Herrmann heard the Santa Claus Parade might not be happening, she knew she wouldn’t have trouble getting Anderson on board to help organize it.
“We’re both mothers who are always looking for fun community events,” says Herrmann.
The women spoke with South Cariboo Chamber of Commerce executive director Shelly Morton who offered all the information she had on past Santa Claus Parades.
They then began to get the word out, in the hope of doubling the entries from 20 to 40.
They also streamlined the application process for entries, Herrmann says.
“In the past you had to pick up a form and fill it out and drop it off. Now, all people have to do is e-mail 100milecommunityevents@gmail.com, although forms can still be picked up at the Heartland Law office.”
Central GM has donated Santa’s sleigh, but the search is still on for a Mr. and Mrs. Claus to ride in it. Other entries have started to arrive, and the women are now working out details, such as insurance and a set-up point.
Al Roberts, who took on the Western Week Parade last year, won’t be doing it in 2016, so Anderson and Herrmann say they’ll probably take that on as well, and try to bring back the Street Fest.
They’ve filled out the paperwork to form a non-profit society, which will enable them to apply for grants to help put on future events. Anyone who’d like to donate to the 100 Mile Events and Festivals Society can contact them at the above e-mail address.
As for the Grinch, he’s participating in the parade, rather than trying to steal it.
