Duane Hicks
While plans are shaping up for the annual Christmas parade, set for Sunday, Dec. 2 and this year entitled “Christmas at the Movies,” volunteers now are needed for the holiday event.
“They’re definitely something we still need,” said TD manager of customer experience Heather Gill, who is co-organizing the parade along with branch manager Katie Trigg.
Gill noted they have spoken to the high school and asked them to put it on the announcements and on their Facebook page, but they haven’t had any students commit yet.
Any students who do take part will get credited for the volunteer hours they need to graduate.
Of course, volunteers need not be students–service clubs, church groups, teams, and individuals are welcome, too.
And there will be plenty for volunteers to do at the fun community event.
Earlier in the day, there will free photos with Santa from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. at the Rainy Lake Square.
Tim Hortons is going to provide free hot chocolate.
“From 11 a.m.-1 p.m., we could use three people to help with the Santa pictures and whatnot, maybe assisting kids with getting their hot chocolate or helping them around Santa,” Gill said.
“I know us, personally, will have some TD stuff to give out so maybe doing that kind of thing–giving out candy canes, things like that,” she added.
Gill stressed the photos will be provided free.
“What we’re going to do is take the photos and if parents are okay with it, we can either e-mail it to them or post it on our Facebook for them to pull them off,” she explained.
She added the quality of the photos taken with a camera will be nicer than those most people take with their phones–although parents can take their own children’s photos with Santa if they choose.
The annual Christmas parade then will be held along Scott Street at 3 p.m., starting at Reid Avenue and ending at TD Canada Trust at Mowat Avenue.
“I need a bunch of teenagers to help with the barricades–to move those to block off the streets closer to actual parade time, some to line Scott Street to prevent people from parking along the route, and then at the end, some to move the barricades back off the street,” noted Gill, adding the job probably would take from 2 p.m. to whenever the parade is done.
Gill said 11 floats (including Santa’s sleigh) have confirmed so far.
“I think we could use a couple more,” she remarked. “I’ve had some people who’ve expressed interest but have not confirmed.
“If you are thinking about it, please register or confirm with us.”
Gill said everybody loves the theme of “Christmas at the Movies,” adding, “We’ve got a lot of good feedback about how they can really do anything and that’s really nice–it’s a versatile theme.”
The parade will be presented by TD Canada Trust and Tbaytel, with at least 10 local sponsors providing prizes and money for candy and other supplies.
There will be four prizes for floats, Gill noted, although the exact categories and sponsors won’t be revealed until closer to the event.
Gill added they could use some candy cane donations and would warmly welcome any.
Those interested in volunteering, registering a float, or donating can e-mail ffsanta2018@gmail.com
