TO THE EDITOR:

On behalf of Washington’s annual Christmas Parade committee, I’d like to express our appreciation to everyone who helped get this thing on the road again.

Starting with Kip Burke at The News-Reporter whose writing talents include being able to “interpret” our rambling hopes into actual factual and informative articles. And especially to Vicki Moses at the Second Time Around Mini Farm for her generous donation of a $100.00 cash prize again. The Llamas had other obligations this weekend and we sure missed them!

Thanks also to Washington’s Police Department, Fire Department, and EMTs. They tell us each year that they “already have it” on their calendars. That is so reassuring. Our community is fortunate to have these professionals set to handle not only emergencies but also the inevitable “die hard” traditions that some folks just can’t let go of.

We’d like to say a very special thank you to the Washington Wilkes Comprehensive High School Band and its flag corps. Not only would it be almost impossible to have a parade without them, but these kids’ enthusiasm is contagious and SO welcome during such a busy, holiday season. Thanks to the cheerleaders and Coach Morgan and especially our champion Tiger tootball team for being grand marshals.

I’d like also to thank Carmen Young, Eric Sifre, and Nina Boatwright for being such helpful messengers, and fellow committee members Christin Hyte and Jennifer Weaver.

Finally we’d like to thank all those who participated in the parade. From the classic cars of Memory Lane Cruisers to Showtime Saddle Club’s horses and every dressed-up 4-wheeler in between. Thank you for adding your holiday imagination to this celebration, for the effort and expense of your entry and for your joyful willingness to brave the elements.

Each year I come away with fond memories of special behind-thescenes happenings. Like the absolute, undiluted thrill expressed this year by some little Girl Scouts when they leamed they were in the lineup “right behind the TIGERS!” And thank you, thank you, thank you to the Shriners who so wonderfully fill in the gaps of what would otherwise be a “right skimpy” little parade. Merry Christmas!

CHRISTINE ARMOUR

Parade chairman