The Hancock-Henderson Quill, Inc.
Downtown Stronghurst
by Jennifer Dance
A fine group of the community braved the chilly weather on Saturday afternoon to watch Stronghurst's annual Christmas parade.
Every participant was appreciated as the parade marched down Broadway. Appropriately, the American flag, carried by the American Legion was the first sight seen coming to the downtown area with the Henderson County Sheriff Mark Lumbeck clearing the way in his squad car with flashing lights. The flag was followed closely by Boy Scout Troops #63 camping out on their float.
Ida Mae Roe was chosen to be this year's Grand Marshall. Mrs. Roe has served this community for many years and is a strong patriot of our country, giving many readings and stories.
The marching band kept the beat down the street and Miss Illinois Preteen Hannah Allaman, was dressed warmly and greeted everyone with her wave and cheerful smile.
Emergency vehicles from Raritan, Oquawka and MST Fire Departments made their appearance known as their sirens blared and friendly volunteers handed out candy to the kids.
The Olena Baptist Church, the 4th place trophy winner, had a spirited float and passed out brown lunch bags. Inside were pieces of candy and different stories telling about the birth of Christ.
Bygone's and Buds, the 3rd place trophy winner, had some great carolers on its sleigh singing "Jingle bells" all the way down Broadway.
Doc Pogue, the 2nd place trophy winner, brought a roar of laughter to the crowd when the door of his beat up pick-up truck flew open. He got out and yelled at the kids riding in the back to, "settle down!" He didn't miss a beat. He got back in his truck, slammed the door and the parade went on. He was on his way to grandma's house with his turkey for dinner tied to the roof of his cab.
The Olde Tymer's Train,1st place trophy winner of the parade, chugged down the street. It was an amazing float and admired by everyone.
The Union High School Band in the bright white and red uniforms was especially enjoyed as they marched and played Christmas music.
There were more-all kinds of participants; little ones being pulled in wagons, limousines holding Fair Queens, old tractors, new tractors, horses and carriages, clowns, lots of singing, and of course, Santa and Mrs. Claus, it was a wonderful way to enjoy another part of the holiday season. Even the Grinch marched in the parade.
On such a frigid and chilly day when everyone was looking for some warmth, comfort was given with a visit from the spirit of Christmas that came to Broadway, Saturday afternoon. Jo Stull did another wonderful job chairing this event for the Booster Club which so many enjoyed.
Winners of the turkeys and hams were as follows:
Jeff Vancil, Anna Carmean, Marcia Moeller, Donald E. McIntyre, Marisia Lange, Gene Roark, Julie Kline, Carla Williams, Debbie Fields, Laura Crawford, Marcia Worley, Pam Murphy, Betsy Eaton, Jacob Quigley, Elain Lillard, Judy Avery, Michele McCollum, Elsie Carhoff, Lisa Brokaw, Nick Tapscott, Karen Lange, Nadine Mowen, Tami Heller, Harold Shrum, Lee James, Jean Crotts, and Anna Effland.
Frosty The Snowman and Cole Implement and tractor say, "Let it snow, let It snow, let it snow!" during the Stronghurst Christmas parade Saturday.