Jackson Christmas parade draws 65 floats

People filled with Christmas spirit lined the streets along the route of Jackson's Christmas parade Saturday.

They caught candy from curbside seats, oohed and ahhed at the 65 float entries and were entertained by the antics of dogs walking in step with the bands, Scouts, church groups and area businesses.

The number of entries was up from 57 last year, said Jackson Jaycees vice president Beth Bollinger. It was her sixth year organizing the parade.

Winners of the Christmas spirit award were Girl Scout Troop 202, Tim Stearns and friends, and Bikers Against Child Abuse. Their floats were designed to fit with the 2008 parade theme, "White Christmas." The floats depicted marshmallows roasting in front of an igloo, a storybook log house with people dressed in pajamas walking beside it and a snowy, homey scene.

The parade marshal this year was Jackson Chamber of Commerce executive director Brian Gerau. Santa was in a sleigh this year thanks to Jackson resident Shannon McCullough, who converted his sleigh on wheels to be drawn by horses, Bollinger said.

However, the parade had only two bands this year, Jackson and Oak Ridge, Bollinger said. Meadow Heights was unable to participate.

John and Diane Adams-Graf, newcomers from Wisconsin, went to the parade, had chili and toured the Oliver House where a plywood Nativity scene stood outside.

"We're doing the Jackson experience today," John said.

In the parade again this year was the Grinch, who walked down Main Street along with some Whos from Whoville, hair stiffened and standing 10 inches high. The Shriners threw Mardi Gras beads instead of candy, and for those leaning up against buildings, candy and paper messages announcing upcoming events or discounts from area businesses were hand delivered.

Jackson Parks and Recreation director Shane West Anderson said he loved the combination of tractors, vintage automobiles and motorcycles.

"It's real Americana. The tractors are a good representation of our community," he said.

At the end of the parade, a 14-year-old girl was injured when she tried to jump back on a float that was leaving the parade route and instead fell on the pavement. Jackson police Sgt. Steve Green said the girl hit her head and could have a concussion. She was taken to Saint Francis Medical Center.

After the parade, the Christmas displays at Jackson City Park were lit for the first time this season and will continue to be lit until Dec. 31.

The Santa House in front of the courthouse was open from 3 to 6 p.m., and the Girl Scout Festival of Lights began at 5 p.m. with luminaries near the courthouse.

cpagano@semissourian.com

388-3648

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