Letter to the Editor
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Tillsonburg Optimist and Area Santa Claus Parade
Well, they said it would rain and boy did it! However, the weather did nothing to defeat the enthusiasm, the spirit and the support that this town exudes.
You walked in the rain, you rode in the rain, you stood out in the rain, you smiled, you moved to the music, some of you were singing in the rain while others "kazooed" in the rain.
Then there was Santa in his beautiful velvet suit who declined the use of an umbrella because he wanted to be sure everyone could see him.
There was Chris Abbott from the Tillsonburg News, filming and walking his second parade of the day with one more to cover that evening.
Theo & Roland Archer from Rogers filming in the rain while Virginia Armstrong from the BIA and Brian Donvely from the Easy 101 radio station kept up an excellent commentary despite the weather.
There were the classic car owners who agreed to bring out their prized autos in inclement weather and Stauffer Motors who took a shiny new convertible right out of their showroom to be used in the parade.
We should name every single wonderful participant all decorated for the season and all patiently waiting in the marshalling area for their cue to join the line up but I don't think there is enough space to name all of you.
We also must acknowledge and thank our sponsors - The Town of Tillsonburg, The Tillsonburg BIA, The Knights of Columbus, The Lions Club and The Tillsonburg Town Centre mall. Every year we turn to you for financial help with the parade and every year you cheerfully say, "Yes."
Historically the Tillsonburg Santa Claus Parade runs whatever the weather throws our way. On Saturday, November 18, 2017 every participant and spectator at the parade became part of the history of this wonderful town.
Thank you.
Norma Collis,
Tillsonburg and Area Optimist Club Christmas Parade chair.