Lind's lighted parade a treat on a chilly night

The Lind community braved the frigid temperatures last Sunday night to celebrate the Christmas spirit and rejoice in the holiday season.

The festivities began at 3 p.m. at the Lind Senior Center, the hot spot of the night to get warmed up. Volunteers served homemade chili, provided by Cathy Wills, and chicken noodle soup, made by Jeannie Pennel, in addition to hot dogs, hot chocolate and coffee.

Santa’s workshop was across the street from the Senior Center, in the old bank building, and children of all ages lined up to meet Mr. and Mrs. Claus, otherwise known as Jerry Kelly and Ruby Koch, and to have their photo taken with Santa and have the chance to whisper in his ear what they wished for this year. Helpers in Santa’s workshop also included Lynne Kelly and Paula Bell as photographer.

There were 16 entries in the lighted Christmas parade this year and Pastor Steve Schofstoll held the honor of announcer for the evening.

The parade began and ended with a dazzling fireworks display, thanks to the help of Josamy Blake, as Cheryl Haase sang the national anthem. Jacque Laird started the parade as flag bearer followed by the Grand Marshals, Bill and Jeanette Wills, who were driven by Rod Biermann.

Parade entries that earned top awards included: first place, awarded to “Candy Shop” decorated and driven by Teresa Longmeier and accompanied by Mike Longmeier and Grandma Gladie. Second place went to “Santa’s Rockin’ Sleigh” by St. John Hardware, Inc., on the sleigh were Jamie Maine as Rudolph, Tyran Doyle as Dasher, Derrick Laird as Santa, and Santa’s Elves were Bryden Laird, Mackenzie Ellis, Micheala Doyle and Grayson Whitaker, driving the truck was Jacob Reeve. Third place went to “Golf Widows” with their 1970 floats, driving were Phyllis Wahl, Carol Kelly and Karla Fowles.

Consolation prizes were awarded to “Christ is Born” by the Lind Community Church kids, Chatterbox Salon, honoring 15 years in business, having Santa, Jerry Kelly, and Mrs. Claus, Ruby Koch, stopping by her shop for a clip and cut.

“Santa’s Sleigh” by the Adams County Historical Society with Rod Melcher as a Reindeer, Sophie Smart as Santa, Alex Melcher and Nathan Melcher were Santa’s elves. The Lind Fire Department had a lighted fire truck that was driven by Kevin Starring.

Completing the nighttime lighted parade entries included The Dean Family horse, “Christmas Lights” with Robert, Brooke, Richard, Alex, Jesse, Tommy, and Chris, “Lily the Rain Goat” with Emily Rosen, “Mr. & Mrs. Santa” with Camron Olson and Jodie Bittick, pulled by Luna and “Merry Christmas” with Kyle Ritz, Amanda Lyn, Amber Rodriguez, Christie Heidi.

The evening was brought to a close by Pastor Jeremy McLellan providing the ending prayer and sending the community home with warm wishes for the holiday season.