Waynesboro parade thrills crowd

November 23, 2003|by BONNIE H. BRECHBILL

WAYNESBORO, Pa. - The cheerleaders from Penn State Mont Alto were probably more comfortable in their short skirts and sleeveless tops than were marching band members in their heavy uniforms and the snowmen in thick white costumes.

About 70 groups strode through downtown Waynesboro Saturday afternoon in the town's 47th Annual Christmas parade. The holiday music seemed a bit out of step with temperatures in the 60s, but sitting outside was pleasant, and the streets were full of people enjoying the entertainment.

Terence Emond and Tiffany Blackford brought their 15-month-old daughter, Isabella, to her first parade. Emond said Isabella enjoyed the music.

A bagpiper played from the back of the Always There Hook and Ladder Company's truck while the West Virginia State Champs Revengers Major and Drum Corps from Martinsburg entertained the crowd, as did several local high school marching bands.

About 20 residents of Rose Manor Assisted Living Residence on East Main Street sat in two rows on the sidewalk in front of the home and waved at the marchers. Several more residents sat inside and watched the festivities through the large windows.

Sharon Riley, activity director at the home, said she likes to get the residents outside and involved in community activities.

Resident Lenore Gourley said that she comes to the parade every year. "I enjoy everything about a parade," she said. "The little ones are so cute. I couldn't do what they do."

Fulton County native Martha Sipes, who resides at Rose Manor, also liked "everything about the parade."

"A parade is my thing," said Dorothy Bumbaugh, a resident for three and-a-half years. "The Ruritan members give us candy every year." Bumbaugh enjoyed the unseasonable weather. "Last year, we were all bundled up," she recalled.

Unusual sights on the square were several Shriners darting around in small Tin Lizzies, dancing chickens, skateboarders, and several horses with young riders. The Wayne Band preceded Santa and Mrs. Claus, who arrived in a horse-drawn wagon sponsored by the Rotary Club of Waynesboro.

Joel Kabik, a morning star on WAYZ 104.7 FM, served as announcer for the event.

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