Lions discuss Christmas parade

NEW CUMBERLAND -- Vice President Sally Greathouse brought the November meeting of the New Cumberland Lions Club to order.

The prayer was offered by Rick Tinsky. Alan Lee led in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance.

The minutes from the November meeting were accepted as read. The treasurer's report was placed on file for audit.

Under communications, officials read a thank-you letter to members. The note was from a local resident who had requested assistance regarding a vision exam and they wanted to thank members for their help.

A motion was made by Dorothy Hawkes and seconded by Tinsky to donate to the local food closet at the Christian Church and to Blue Star Mothers, who send items to active service members overseas.

It was announced Jeanne Cox will be working on the Christmas tree decorating project at the Swaney Library with the help of Peggy Lee and Betsy Wells.

The chairman of the by-laws committee has contacted members to begin the process, providing each a copy of the international by-laws to be used as a template.

The next meeting of the club will be the annual Christmas party, scheduled to place at 6 p.m. Tuesday at the Christian Church. Entertainment will be provided.

There will be no more meetings for the remainder of the year. Lions members will meet again on Jan. 9.

Lions members stated this year, the city will hold its annual Christmas parade at 5 p.m. Saturday.

Entrants will line up in Fuccy's lot on Second Avenue before proceeding along Ridge Avenue. They will go down Station Hill before ending up downtown at the fire hall, parade organizers said.

This year's grand marshals will be Bill and Barb Ross. The theme for this year's parade will be "I'll Be Home for Christmas," and is a tribute to those serving in the military.

New Cumberland officials created a space in which two chairs are set up -- one for Santa and the other for Mrs. Claus. They are structured next to a red, white and blue-themed Christmas tree.

The tree is to honor those serving in the military and to remember each and every one of these soldiers during the holiday season.

Following the parade, the public is invited to stroll along River Avenue. Here, visitors can see the many decorated trees and enjoy free cookies and hot chocolate.

The Oak Glen band and Oak Glen chorus will share holiday music at the overlook on River Avenue, organizers said.

Children can visit with Santa Claus inside the old city building. There will be a free winter hat and glove giveaway, officials said, adding everyone is invited to join in the festivities.

The New Cumberland Lions Club will provide the hot chocolate following the parade.

Set up for the event will take place at 4:30 p.m. in the city garage.