Cool Temps Chase Parade Crowd Away(posted Aug 26) A cold front that lowered the temperature to the 60s caused some parade watchers to high tail it under blankets to watch the Clermont Old Fashion Day Parade on August 18. Even a few sprinkles came down that spotted eyeglasses, windshields, and camera lenses. The parade started about 24 minutes, late partially due to a delay with WFMS J. D. Cannon as the Emcee. He arrived by a police escort to make up for loss time. The parade drew local residents out along US 136. Conversations of town changes were evident, ranging from "We are getting sidewalks now. I thought we weren't," as one spectator read The Clermont Nexus News, to "When did they tear down the corner building?" "About three months ago," echoed a response. Janet Reynolds stood along the side anxiously waiting for the parade to start. She was concerned about her horse, Jill, and and how she would react in the parade with all of the noise, traffic and people. The parade was open to local businesses, giving them a great opportunity to advertise. The Glove Lady, Shawn Gault, came with her three pink vans full of protective glove wear. The Clermont Lions' Club members, along with their Lion mascot, tossed candy while the boy scouts passed out American Flags. The parade also provided a forum for candidates to campaign. Republican Mayoral Candidate Greg Ballard, City County Councilor District 13 Robert Lutz, City County Councilor District 6 Janice McHenry, At Large Candidate Kent Smith, State Senator Mike Delph and State Representative Phil Hinkle were out to greet the crowd . As the parade ended, the clouds parted somewhat to the start of a sunny day, while children were comparing their piles of candy they had gathered from the participants. |
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