Sunshine and smiles greeted Santa Claus as he arrived in the Madawaska Valley for his annual Parade on Saturday December 8. Santa complimented the Madawaska Valley Lions Club for organizing such a splendid event to greet him. Lions Club President Tom Smith said thirty floats were entered in this year’s parade.
Ottawa Valley Physiotherapy Clinic Minions scooped first prize for their float
The Ashgrove Inn held a beach party to win second prize
Third prize went to Grandma’s Garden: an old-time laundry with a trail of soap bubbles
Spectators crowded the Opeongo Line through Barry’s Bay to view the floats and enjoy gifts of candy from the paraders. Little ones screamed with delight at the OPP cruiser and Madawaska Valley fire truck complete with lights and sirens. Onlookers were entertained by a pipe and drum band, carol singers, and some resident rock stars.
Many businesses and community organizations participated. All three levels of government were represented. MP Cheryl Gallant is shown above with the Miss Madawaska Valley participants and MPP John Yakabuski joined Mayor Kim Love and Councillors Mark Willmer and Carl Bromwich in the parade.
Dudley took his usual place riding shotgun for Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs District 6 Governor Cheryl Dunlop Reid as they preceded the Opeongo Snowbirds float.
As usual the parade ended at the Paul J. Yakabuski Community Centre where Santa Claus gravely listened to all the children’s wishes. The winning floats were announced and The Lions Club awarded their cash prizes. Terry Newcombe of Balloons Beyond Belief entertained the little ones as they waited to see Santa inside the arena. Residents could choose gifts suitable for all ages and interests from the free toy and gift table. The Lions Club provided refreshments. People brought donations for the Madawaska Valley Food Bank. For the fourth year in a row, Daly Contracting handed out one hundred free turkeys. It was a day when neighbours came together in an effort to ensure every Valley family enjoys a Merry Christmas.