The Hampden County Sheriff’s mounted unit won honorable mention in a surprise entry.
Reminder Publishing submitted photo
RUSSELL — The 25th Russell Parade of Lights organizer Missy Castro, chair of the Recreation Committee, said the cold did not deter anyone from coming out to watch on Dec. 13.
“The parade went off without a hitch this year,” she said, adding, “Kids were all bundled up with little bags waiting for the candy that gets tossed out of most of the vehicles.”
The Russell-Montgomery Police Department’s Crown Vic Unit 309 led the parade as its final duty. “We even had a surprise entry, the Hampden County Sheriff’s Department brought two beautiful horses, which delighted everyone watching,” Castro said.
Trophies were given out at a celebration afterwards to first responders and community participants.
First place in the first responder/professional category went to the Holyoke Fire Department’s large engine with candy canes lining all around the top. Second place went to the Huntington Fire Department’s engine sporting a giant blown-up minion, and third place to the Chester Fire Department’s antique truck. Honorable mention was given to the Hampden County Sheriff’s Department.
First place in the civilian/open division went to the Hilltown Hikers’ float with its bubble-snow machine. Second place went to the Whoville Tractor, driven by Donald York, and third place went to the tractor with the inflatable Santa, driven by Ray Reed.
“Every year it seems to just get bigger and better. The town of Russell Park and Recreation Committee puts their all into this event, and it shows with the final product,” Castro said.
