Parker adds parade, vendors to Christmas celebration

This young girl was delighted to see Santa at the Parker Christmas party sponsored by area businesses, individuals and the Parker Area Ladies Association on Saturday, Dec. 9. (Photos by Roger Sims/Linn County Journal)

It was a small but enthusiastic group of Parker-area residents who took part in the city's first Christmas parade – with a theme of Miracle on Main – on afternoon of Saturday, Dec. 10. Add hardy to that list as well.

Even hardier was the handful of vendors who set up shop late in the morning and braved a strong northerly breeze and temperatures in the 40s and stayed until the parade's end. Outdoor heaters made the cold bearable, but people huddled close to those sources of heat.

The First Baptist Church of Parker won the prize for best float in the parade, but five other organizations and businesses made it a point to have entries in the parade.

As evening fell, the celebration shifted to the Parker Elementary School, where the Parker Area Ladies Association served hot dogs, chili, and cookies. Tables of toys to be given away in a raffle drawing were set up in the multipurpose room, and nearby was a "Thank You" card to the more than 20 individuals and businesses who donated for the event.

Both Santa and the Grinch made appearances. And while many youngsters were happy to update the Jolly Old Elf on their Christmas wish lists, many of kids warmed up immediately to the Grinch as well.

A few vendors braved the cold, blustery weather to sell their goods on Main Street. Chanda Enright, left, and Shawna Emery, center, with JNR Designs said they had a steady stream of customers throughout the afternoon.

Kari Brandt, from left, Rita Kerr and Carol Burk Buckman are part of the crew serving dinner for the Parker Area Ladies Association (PALS).

More than 100 bikes and toys supplied through the generosity of Parker-area businesses, organizations and individuals were given away after the supper.