Republic Kiwanis hosts humdinger parade
Tint Clinic brought their A-game with this year's Christmas Vacation themed float, lead by Cousin Eddie, seen here in a robe that leaves little to the imagination
A Griswold-themed station wagon replete with Christmas tree and root ball slowly makes its way down Main Street
All dolled up, local realtor Sue Carter waves to the camera on her namesake float
Main Street, Republic filled with Christmas spirit
Despite a chill in the air, Republic area residents showed up in droves to enjoy this year's Republic Kiwanis Christmas parade last Saturday, Dec. 3.
"The Kiwanis club was thrilled with the turnout," said Kiwanis president and event organizer Justin Hart. "Main Street was about as full as it could get! Elbow to elbow, and I'd say six or seven rows deep along downtown Main Street. Last year we were concerned that with such a big turnout we would run out of candy to throw to the kids. This year though, even with such a big turnout, I saw a lot of happy kids walking away with bags full of candy."
Hart added that not just attendance, but participation was at full tilt, as well.
"I'm not sure how many total participants, but I can tell you the beginning of the parade had made the full loop and was back to the starting point before our final float had crossed the starting line. I believe that loop is about a mile and a half.
The 45-minute parade, which culminated in downtown Republic, was officially judged. This year's Crowd Favorite award went to Better Homes and Gardens; Most Creative was earned by Joel Young and his miniature airplane; and Best Theme was awarded to Tint Clinic for their Christmas Vacation motif.
Later in the evening, Hart and other Kiwanians returned to the Main Street stage to hand out $14,000 in Kiwanis grants to local organizations.
"Our goal as a club is to create an event that is appealing for the whole family to come out and see,' Hart said. "It's so heartwarming to walk along Main Street and see it lined with families that are laughing at some of the creative floats, clapping along with the bands and waving as Santa Claus comes by. Kiwanis members believe in service to the community and especially to the children. This event hits both of those marks right on the dot. We couldn't have asked for a better event. We love seeing happy kids. Looking forward to many more years of the Republic Kiwanis Christmas Parade!"
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Lawrence County Record
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