Arctic cold doesn't chill the spirits at Pleasanton's holiday event

Erika Gilbert dressed as the Grinch in Santa's clothes for Pleasanton's annual Christmas festivities on Saturday, Dec. 13. (Photos by Billy Roudybush / Linn County Journal)

By Billy Roudybush

Journal contributor

Despite the cold, blustery weather Pleasanton-area residents held their annual Christmas celebration on Saturday, Dec 13, packing the city’s community center for the dinner and later on for a visit from Santa.

During the afternoon toward evening, people could enjoy seeing and petting exotic animals such as a pony, a calf, and a sheep. There was also a painted camel. The three Young sisters monitored the animals that were brought up from Fulton by Amy Gordan.

The city of Pleasanton provided chili and soup for people to enjoy with all of the fixings. Afterwards, there were baked goods and ice cream with toppings. Cocoa was provided for drinks.

Kelly, left, was crowned Snow Princess, and Daxton was named Jack Frost.

After the meal, kids had the opportunity to build a bear. Many took advantage of the opportunity to make a bear, a puppy, or a monkey. Adults purchased tickets for giveaways or checked out the vendors set up inside. Everyone was patiently waiting for next event, the light parade.

The time finally came, the parade began with Don Epps announcing the contestants. The crowd hung outside the community center, but they were excited despite the 13-degree weather. The kids were bouncing in anticipation of the candy from the parade.

Then it began with the firetrucks leading the way. The city and several businesses as well as churches had entries. The children raced for the candy. The winning contestants of the parade were Events by Erica, third place; Labette Bank, second place; and Cedar Street Light Show, first place.

Chris Martin's float for the Cedar Street Light Show won first place in the contest for best parade entry. Martin, who does the Christmas light show on the Linn County Justice Center in Mound City, this year has created a Christmas display on Cedar Street at Miami Street. (See the Journal's calendar page for more information)

As is custom now, Santa arrived on the city’s fire truck. He first lit the city Christmas tree in front of the community center. Families were lined up around the main room in the community center as Santa arrived.

After listening to all of the children and what they wanted for Christmas, Santa gave each child a parting gift.

The next event was the crowning of the Snow Princess and Jack Frost. Kelley was crowned Snow Princess while Daxton was crowned Jack Frost. The final event was the announcement of the stocking winners. Zoe Brow won Visual Effects, Mirian Meik won Most Original, and Indie Walton won for Most Creative.

These friends of Santa offered wide smiles as their family members snapped photos.

More photos from Pleasanton's celebration. Click on the photo for a larger image.