Cathy: Hello and welcome to WGTE Presents.

I'm Cathy Kamenca from WGTE Public Media.

You know, it's that time of yea when we mark the holiday season with family friendly festivities across this community and we at WGTE are proud to presen one of the most popular of those events, the Blade Holiday Parade, which has been going on since 1988.

Celebrate with marching bands, giant balloons.

Oh, keep an eye out for Elmo.

Plenty of clowns, floats and so much more.

And you know what?

I also know that Santa Claus will make an appearance.

Now, the Blade Holiday Parade is presented in conjunction with the Distinguished Clown Corps.

Thank you for joining us today.

Our very own parade.

My friend and colleague Angel is on the street, and she's ready to take it from here.

This is the 37th annual Blade Holiday Parade, on WGTE HD.

Angel: Thanks, Cathy.

Today is an even special day as we're at the 37th Annual Toledo Holiday Blade Parade.

We have a special birthday.

Whose birthday.

Is it?

Do you know.

You get to see Elmo on your birthday?

Yeah.

Did you know Elmo is going to be here?

Yes, yes.

Do we love Sesame Street guys?

Yes, yes.

Okay Can you sing the song with me?

Do you know it?

Do you know it?

You know it.

Okay.

Three.

Two.

One.

Sunny days.

Where the.

Subway.

Okay.

Keep going.

Let me ask me.

Can you tell me how to get to Sesame Street?

How to get.

To.

Yes Street?

Good job kids, you okay?

Can you wait by the camera?

Say bye.

Mary Claire: Good morning.

Hello, everyone.

I'm Mary Claire Murphy of WGTE Public Media.

Welcome to the 37th Annual Blade Holiday Parade, presented in conjunction wit the Distinguished Clown Corps.

PNC Bank is proud to b a community partner of the 2024 Holiday Parade, and wants t wish you a very happy holiday.

Logan: Hello everyone as well!

I'm Logan Cooney of WGTE Public Media.

Welcome again to the Blade Holiday Parade.

It's a great day today and we are excited to bring this fabulous event to all of you.

We have more than 85 units this year to bring lots of holiday cheer to downtown Toledo.

We also would like to give thank you to, Tom strain as well for the beautiful poinsettias up here at our table.

So, with that, let's get started.

Mary Claire: The Toledo Police Department is represented by Toled Police Chief Michael Troendle.

Chief trundle has serve our community for over 30 years.

And please stand as our nation's flag is presented by the Toledo Police Honor Guard.

The guard's main function is to honor the memory of Toledo police officers, who dedicated their lives to serving the citizens of Toledo and are no longer with us.

Also with us is the Toledo Correctional Institution State Honor Guard.

The guard is led by officer Josh Mulkey and represent the state of Ohio and the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction.

Logan: Coming up too, we also have this year's grand marshal, Libby Servais and Steven Stubbins, their Broadway power couple that fell in love on stage and have been together ever since.

They are saluting the performing arts.

Servais grew up in the Toledo area and went to Miami High School from an early age.

Her dream was to perform on Broadway, and her dream came true when she played the iconic role of Glinda on Broadway in the hit show wicked.

She was also a member of the original Broadway cast of the show.

The Strada Jones, and has bee featured on TV on NBC and MTV, and has had the honor of sharing the stage with Broadway legends including Kristin Chenoweth, Idina menzel, Joel Gray, and Sheryl Lee Ralph, just to name a few.

And Stevens is also from Ohio.

Made his Broadway debut in the hit show Mary Poppins.

He's the co-founder of the Broadway Under the Stars concert series in Wine Country, for whic she was named as a 40 under 40, and as a performer he has sung an opening act solo for Frank Sinatra, headline an opening act for Rita moreno, and has worked with entertainment legends on and off stage, including Dick Van Dike.

Ben Vereen Sutton Foster and Conan O'Brien.

Mary Claire: Both have played many roles in their careers but their favorite role is that of parents to their two yea old boy, Elliot Jane Stubbins.

Survey in Stevens event.

Touring in the country and the world and their two perso Broadway show, Broadway in Love.

Tickets are.

And we welcome back one of the largest groups every year in our parade the Distinguished Clown Corps.

They are back again with cand and treats for kids of all ages.

In the organization's firs year, local business executives were invited to be clowns for a day to make balloons and hand out candy along the parade route.

Today, the distinguished Clown Corps includes some of the city's top executives, and their sponsorship helps pay for many of the expenses associated with today's holiday parade.

For the past several years, their clownish good looks have been painted on by theater students from the Toledo School for the Arts.

The Clown Course always looking for new members.

If you would like to clown around with them, visit Toledo Clown corps.com.

Thank you, Toledo Clown Corps for joining us today.

You always bring a smile to our faces.

Logan We got a circus and a parade on.

Mary Claire: How nicel the face paint is done as well.

From the Toledo School for the Arts.

Logan: How many clowns d you think are out there, Mary?

Mary Claire: Oh, gosh, it's amazing.

You got dozens of clowns.

It looks lik marching down the street here.

Logan: I'm waiting for the car to go by and more come out right.

Mary Claire: 115 I hear Wow.

Logan: 115 clowns.

Oh, I would say.

Mary Claire: Oh, we got a thank God.

Thank you much.

See if I can catch it.

Logan: Thank you so much.

Got it.

Mary Claire: Some of them are making balloons as we speak.

Carol Logan, yo know how to make any of these?

Logan: I'm not even going to try to.

Mary Claire: I always pop mine when I attempt them.

Logan: They just keep coming out.

Mary Claire: 115 clowns in our distinguished clown Corps.

How special it is to have the all with us here this morning.

Logan: I think they all went t clown college was still around.

Mary Claire: I think they must have.

I mean, they they march so expertly.

Logan: Clown boot camp, right?

Mary Claire: And the clowns just keep coming true to clown form.

Logan: More candies.

Mary Claire: More.

Oh, I just catch one more now.

Logan: Ther you go.

There.

Oh.

My favorite.

There you go.

So great to see the community out today, Mary Claire.

All the families.

The kids are obviously loving it.

Mary Claire: It's wonderful.

I see so many beautifully ugly Christmas sweaters.

And we've got familie in matching Christmas outfits.

We've got pajama pants.

It's such a wonderful way to kick off the season.

Angel: Okay, we are here with the Clown Corps at the annual Blade Parade.

How does it feel to be a member of the Clown Court today and walking in the parade?

It feels amazing most of my first year, but I'm really excited.

So how did you hear about it?

I work downtown, I'm involved downtown, and, it's great organization.

So do you get to do this being your first year?

You think you'll be back next year?

Absolutely.

Yeah.

And what are some of the things that the clowns are handing out today that if they see you guys, they should say, hi, we've got lots of candy.

And probably, you know, the most popular are the balloon animals.

So I'm a first year.

So I don't do those yet.

But maybe next year.

Yeah.

All right.

Well thank you so much.

And if you see a clown, make sure you get your balloon animal.

Logan: Well, coming up next here we have the blaze.

Oh, thank you so much, sweetie.

Thank you.

Up next we have the Blades Explorer for one nine jeeps.

The newspaper is the oldes continuing business in Toledo.

The first paper came off the press in 1835.

The blade covers northwest Ohio and southeast Michigan.

And its website, Toledo blade.com, is the region's mos viewed online source for news.

The explorer 419 Jeep is here to let you know that you can check out all the major events happening in the area on the Blades explore 419 online calendar.

In fact, we even got our own little little Jeep duck.

Got a little blue Jeep that.

Mary Claire: And the heat is on.

It's your Toledo Fire and Rescue department.

Over 550 firefighters ready to serve you.

Toledo has 18 fire stations.

DFC was established in 1837 with the first fire station, formerly known as Station Number one, on Cherry Street between Huron and Superior.

Toledo Fire and Rescu Department loves our community and seeks to make a difference every day.

Very happy holidays and safe holidays from your Toledo Fire and Rescue Department.

Logan: Well, I see a sign up there.

I don't know if it's these Santa.

Yeah I don't think it's coming later, but I've got a little preview he's got.

Mary Claire: I think he's going to make time for us this morning.

Special thanks to our Toledo Fire and Rescue Department.

Logan: Oh, I love that wreath.

Right at the front there Isn't that.

Mary Claire: Cute?

Decorated.

It's so nice even with the Christmas lights.

On the back.

Wow.

Oh, here you go.

And then.

Logan: And right behind that, we have our Zenobia Shriner jeeps, tours and patrol units.

Our holiday parade always looks forward to having the snow.

The Shriners, the Shriners have many outstanding units that are part of one of North America's largest philanthropic groups, helping to support more than 22 hospitals.

The Zenobi Jeep unit was organized in 1964.

The Jeep Sters are unique convertibles about 16ft long, and were manufactured by Willys Overland in Toledo from 1948 through 1950.

Only a little more than 19,000 Jeep Sters were ever made.

They are considered historical vehicles and are recognized for their identical appearance and musical horns.

We definitely ar hearing the horns, so you get.

Mary Claire: A great example of those musical horns.

It's fun.

Old timey vehicles.

Yeah.

Logan I love these little tricycles.

They've got it.

Mary Claire: Oh my goodness, it's so fun.

Logan: A classic car horn.

You wouldn't want to be behind one of those on the.

Oh.

Happy holidays from these zenovia shrine teamsters.

Oh!

And please welcome the old Newsboys Goodfellas Association to our holiday parade.

This charitable organization has more than 350 member and has been around since 1929.

Founded by local businessman John Kunkel, the mission is to provide coats, boots, shoe and emergency food to children, so on.

Newsboys is the oldest nonprofit northwest Ohio.

They work with more than 170 schools to identify children in need.

They deliver food baskets to needy families throughout the year, and also help families whose homes have been destroyed by fire.

Its leader, Newsboys, is a big part of th history of our local community, and they are honored to announce the continuation longstanding annual tradition their 95th annual Charity Pape Sale, on Friday, December 6th.

It wouldn't be the holidays without volunteers in our local communities holding our red jug and collecting those donations.

Logan: Right behind them, we also have the Bay View Yacht Club.

They've been participating in the play.

Hi everybody.

Everybody, we got the oh, here we go.

They've been in the Steel Blade Holiday Parade since 2013.

Each year we add more Seuss and Whovill characters to walk in the parade and hand out books to th children along the parade route.

They're hoping to distribute over 10,000 books today, and the Baby Yacht Club is located in Point Place and has 200 active members and 100 social members promoting safe boating on Lake Erie.

Here's some for you guys.

Check it out.

Mary Claire: Next up is the Bedford High School Band, sponsored by Zane's Lebanese Grill.

The marching kicking mules are under the direction of Corey Maggard.

This outstanding band received its 10th consecutive superior rating this fall, and is headed to Chicago later this mont for the Thanksgiving Day Parade.

There's something to sing along with.

And we've got our decorated instruments.

Bedford High School.

School's a radio station and all student operated station provides music and information to the Bedford community.

Thank yo to the Bedford High School Band.

Logan: Coming up next we have chick fil A of Toledo.

Got the cows there, and chick fil A cows eat more chicken, right?

Thrilled to be part of this vibrant community at chick fil A Toledo.

They strive to be your most caring neighbor.

Dedicated to serving and supporting local schools and organizations.

You can find chick fil A locations throughout the Toledo area.

Mary Claire: So here's a question if dairy cows spend too much time on the cold or the ice.

Logan: Cream ice cream cows, there you go.

Mary Claire: We are happy to have the Toledo Valley with us again this year.

The Toledo Valley's 84th annua presentation of The Nutcracker will be at the Stranaha Theater on Sunday, December 14th and Monday, December 15th.

This year's production will feature over 80 student dancers, four professional dancers and 38 musicians from the Toledo Symphony.

Dating back to 1939, this is the longest running annual performance of The Nutcracker in the country.

All costumes and sets are made locally.

The Toledo Ballet has continued to entertain local audiences since its founding in 1939 by the late Maureen Foot.

Logan: Oh, we've got the mice kind to look at that on the ranking.

Oh, there you go.

Right behind the is all time travel from Portage, Ohio to here with beautiful Clydesdale horses.

Oh, here they come.

The Clydesdale horses.

Always one of the most exciting units in our parade.

All time travel is owned and operated by Debbie Stein.

Along with the assistance of Bill Herrick.

They take pride in raising, training and showing quality Clydesdale horses.

The two horses in front are the lead team.

The next two are the swing horses that carry the hitch.

The two closest to the carriage are the wheelers, the biggest horses pulling the wagon.

The mayor's range from age 8 to 18 years old, and it takes three hours before an event to get all the horses ready.

All these horses have been shown successfully during the year at major shows and fairs.

Mary Claire: Comin up next, we have the lovable Tom Turkey gobbling his way through our holiday parade.

Tom is the unofficial mascot that kicks off our holiday season, having taken part in the Macy's parade since 1973, Tom Turkey is a regular fan favorite, second only to Santa himself.

Tom Turkey sponsored by Connect Toledo Connect Toledo with the nonprofit Downtow Toledo Development Corporation.

Privately funded by community leaders, they implement a plan of actio that facilitates private public partnerships, promote events and attractions, identify investment opportunities, and advocates for businesses.

They build the critical connections for vibrant neighborhoods, a strong central business district.

Connect Toledo believes when downtown thrives, the whole region prospers.

Logan: Up next, we have the Perrysburg Dance Academy performance team.

The Perrysburg Dance Academy performance team is led by artistic director Alyssa merry, her studio owner Pamela Heckler, and team captain Brooke.

Back.

Back Donnis.

The team consists of 30 dancers ages 8 to 18.

This past summer, the Perrysburg Dance Academy Performance tea danced down Main Street, U.S.A. and the Magic Kingdom at Disney World and perform on stage.

A stage show at Epcot.

These dancers along with more than 100 dancers from the studio, are currently preparing for their performance of The Nutcracker, which will be held on December 13th 14th, and 15th at Owens Community College Performing Arts Center for.

Mary Claire: Joining us now is a group from Poland, Pet Hood with their four legged friends celebrating their 45th year in operation this year.

Poland Pet Hood is a foster based animal rescue program serving northwest Ohio and southeast Michigan.

The nonprofit organization's mission is to reduce the overpopulatio and suffering of dogs and cats through education and low cost spay and neuter programs, and to rescue, care for, and place adoptabl pets into good permanent homes.

You can view adoptable pets and learn more at planned Pet hood.org.

Logan: Such cute little dogs.

I wouldn't be.

Mary Claire: Long is without your furry friend.

Logan: Look at that.

Oh, look at the little sweater.

That's so cute.

Mary Claire: They're Santa's doppelganger.

Oh, yeah.

Doggy for.

Logan: More like Santa's paws.

That right?

Coming up next, we have th Metro Toledo Chinese community.

Always a parade favorite.

Let's welcome the Metro Toledo Chinese community.

Three different groups of th metro Toledo Chinese community.

Joining us today are the Chines Association of Greater Toledo, the Chinese Center of Toledo, also known as the Chinese School and the Chinese Alliance Church.

Established in 1965.

The Chinese Association of Greater Toledo is a nonprofit organization with a clear mission of promoting Chinese culture, tradition, language, and business in the region.

It provides community support programs and promotes the personal and professional development of members to create an avenue for bridging two great countries of China and the United States.

The Chinese Center of Toledo was also founded in the 1970s, and offer all levels of Chinese language classes for ages three and up and the Chinese Alliance Church.

The Toledo Chinese Alliance Church is a Christ centered, family oriented, even evangelizing community church that to serve the Toledo area to Chinese speaker and those seeking God as well.

They have a mandarin service that serves first generation immigrant and a separate English service to serve second generation English speaking youth and young adults.

I love the colors in these ribs.

Isn't that cool?

Mary Claire: Oh for sure.

Special thanks to the Metro Toledo Chinese community for their choreography and participation in today's parade.

Logan: Looks like we have some drums and a dragon, a panda, all kinds.

Great stuff.

Mary Claire: And.

We're.

Next in our parade are the Cumulus radio stations of Toledo.

Cumulus Media Toledo is the home of your favorite local stations like K1 hundred 93, five W, R, Q, N, 94, five XKR, and Q 105 K 193.5 W, R X and have local on ai personalities like Denny Shafer, Tim Morrison, Becky Shock Lynn and Marko Muki, and Johnny D. 94 point 5KR is Toledo's home for classic rock with rockin on air personalities spik in the morning Star and Grizzly Q 105 is Toledo station for the 90s.

2000s.

And now tune in for the bird Show.

Rachel, Ryan, Eric, Chase, Mia, and Floyd hear about all things pop culture and about all the fun events around Northwest Ohio.

Logan: Right behind Cumulus, we have Baby Miss Toledo, Abby P's royalty Lady Loni as baby Miss Toledo, who recently won the National community title as at Nationals in September in Nashville.

She will once again be eligible for this title again in September of 2025.

To obtain this title at some service and community appearances must be obtained.

Angel: Oh, right.

So, what is your name?

I'm Tomalisa.

And what is your name?

I'm Joyce.

All righty.

And are you guys local to Toledo?

Yes we are.

Yes, yes.

So how many years have you been going to the Blade Parade?

I think I've been.

Go on about, since our children was little.

About 25 years.

About 25 years?

Yeah.

Do you have a core memory?

I always look forward to the marching bands and, Santa at the end.

That's that's usually my favorite par is the marching bands and Santa, the marching bands are actually right behind us, so we can see them as they come by.

Mary Claire: Here comes the bash, your high school marching blue racers.

The band, directed by Matt Fritts and Xavier Smith, performed in Chicago, New York City and festivals throughout the area.

The school was named for Edward Leslie Bowser, superintendent of the Toledo Public Schools from the late 1930s until his retirement in 1958.

In 2020, the school's mascot changed from the Rebels to Blue Racers which is a type of racer snake native to South Toledo and Swan Creek.

Logan: Behind them is Lov and Learn educational childcare.

Family owne and operated for over 50 years.

Love and learn educational Childcare is here to expand your child's world while serving your child care needs.

In the Ohio communities of Toledo, Washington Township and Sylvania Township, along with Lambertville in Bedford, Michigan, they're focused on building meaningful relationships through superior educational, childcare.

Mary Claire: Next, we hav the Ancient Order of Hibernians and Ladies Ancient Order o Hibernians, the oldest chartered Catholic fraternal organization in the United States, founded in 1836 to benefit Irish immigrants and their families, the order continues to help those in need through charity and outreach to the poor.

In 2022 the Ancient Order of Hibernians fed over 1 millio meals to the hungry in the US.

The group holds social events and promotes all things Irish as they are here today for our 2024 holiday Parade.

Check them out on Facebook at h.o.h.

Toledo.

Logan: Behind them is the nine dance Productions nine dance takes great pride in providing an educational approach to lessons and in utilizing safe instructional techniques for the overall development of its dancers.

Studio founders and owners Amanda and Tyle Nye have a passion for teaching and helping students grow to their full potential.

Are you seeing a Grinch theme.

Here?

Mary Claire: They went all ou for their holiday spirit here.

Look at the smiles.

Mary Claire: That's nye dance productions for you.

The Bavarian Sports Club is located on Lagrange and more streets.

It was hand-built b many of the members grandparents and many upgrades have been made throughout the years.

This year, their floa is decked out with gingerbread.

Saint Nicholas will give treats to good boys and girls, but bad kids will get sticks from Krampus.

Better behave kids.

Krampus is scary.

See you next year.

Logan: That's a little scary.

Mary Claire: I don't think we have any bad boys or girls here, though.

I'm pretty sure they're all good ones.

Logan: Right behind the Bavarian Sport Club is where you see the juice.

That's 107.3.

Bam!

That's the people's station.

WGC was founded by Charles Chuck Welch and is the first African-American owned radio built from the ground up in northwest Ohio.

The juice has been entertaining and serving the community since 1997, and is celebrating 27 years.

Mary Claire: And it's everybody's favorite little monster who loves a warm hug.

It's Elmo from Sesame Street.

Our Elmo balloon is sponsored by E!

Public Media.

Logan: See some recognizable faces out there so.

Mary Claire: WGTE Public medi is northwest Ohio and Southeast Michigan's PBS and NPR affiliate PBS kids is the number one educational media brand for kids.

Offers children the opportunity to explore new ideas and new worlds to television digital platforms, and community based programs.

Happy holidays from.

WGTE and Elmo.

Logan: And up next is the Perrysburg School of Rock house ban Harrisburg School of Rock house band consists of Josh Lichte on drums, Norman Hoover and Trent Zander on guitar, Brice Ochsner on keys, and Evelyn Coupe and Jim Beam singing vocals.

Students at the school of Rock learn music theory through the songs they love, and have fun performin those songs in a band setting.

House band members auditioned for the group and are passionate about taking any opportunity to further their learning from real world experiences, such as the Blades Holiday Parade today, and they all hop that you have a rocking holiday.

Mary Claire: Our next group is from the Toledo Area Regional Transit Authority, better known as Tada which was established in 1971.

In 2024, Tada introduced a fixed route service to Oregon, expanded the capacity of its On-Demand option, Tad flex completed more than 150,000 paratransit trips and introduced a fare capping option to save customers money with the Tada card.

Tada is also moving towards a zero emission vehicles to the fleet, with five plug in paratransit vehicles on the road and delivery of 12 full size electric busses scheduled in late 2025.

With these and other improvements on the way, Tada continues to be a trusted and reliable source of mobility and independence in our community.

Logan: Behind them, we also have the Lucas County Veterans Service Commission.

The Veterans Service Commission was established in 1886 by the Ohio Legislature to assist veterans and their families in times of need.

Today, the Lucas County Veterans Service Commission provides financial assistance, referrals, information, and aid in obtaining Veterans Administration and other benefits.

Mary Claire: The Fantastic Dancing Machine is excited to represent Jesup Scott High School in this year's holiday parade.

The Scott High School Marching Band has showcased his talents at numerous events throughout Toledo, including local favorites like the Old West End Parade.

They've also competed in prestigious band competition in Dayton, Columbus and Detroit.

Most recently they had the honor of performing at the Homecoming parade for Central State University, representing Toledo with pride.

They are so ready to bring energy and enthusiasm to the race.

Go, Bulldogs!

Leading the spirited Bulldogs is drum major Devin Richardson, along alongside drum major Kevin Davis.

The band is under the direction of head band director Scott Walter and assistant director Robert Fletcher.

Logan: Right behind them is Miami Valley Habitat for humanity a leader in affordable housing.

Since 1988, Miami Valley.

Habitat for humanity has empowered families by improving the place they call home.

Affordable housing plays a critical role in our communities, and this nonprofit organizatio serves families in Lucas County who dream of owning their own homes or need hel improving their current homes.

Miami Valley Habitat for humanity is seeking passionate individuals and organizations to help build homes, communities and hope.

Volunteers of all skills are welcome and all hands make a difference.

Mary Claire: Following the Miami Valley.

Habitat for humanity.

We've got the Toledo Mud hands and Toledo Walleye mascot.

Toledo minor league sports teams are lucky to have these spirited mascots.

Let's welcome Muddy and Madonna from the Mud Hens.

And Spike and Patrick from the walleye.

Toledo has been home to the Mud Hens since 1896.

They are one of the best known minor league sports teams in the world.

Muddy joined the team in the 1980s and Madonna was added in 2003.

Games at 53rd field wouldn' be the same without these two.

Spike and Catch Rick help get the walleye fans going at Huntington Center.

The team began playing in 2009 and is looking to make another run for the Al Championship.

For information on how you can invite the mascots to your event, visit Mud hens.com or walleye.com.

Logan: And behind them we have the brownstone stable, brownstone stable, and equine favorite returning to the parade this year.

Founded in 2022, Brownstone Stable is a small, family owned horseback riding business in Toledo.

Inspired by the Toledo Horseman Club, which has been activ for over 20 years, brownstones Stable aims to build strong client relationships and foste a sense of family among riders actively engaging with the local community.

The stable has a passion for horses and is dedicated to providing exceptional equine services.

I see well, they got a little Christmas socks on here.

Mary Claire: How cute!

They're so calm amidst all this Christmas music.

Holiday cheer.

Rolling down the parade route is Toledo, Lucas County Public Library.

Bookmobile services.

The bookmobile provides access to library resources, an area of the communities that might not otherwise have access.

The Toledo Lucas County Public Library launched its first bookmobile in 1937.

The Toledo Lucas County Public Library is a shining example of the library's commitment to being open and accessible to all.

The bookmobile services visits over 150 locations every month to deliver library services to the community.

Logan: So great seeing the community come out today, Mary Claire, all these great families.

What a great crowd So everybody having fun today.

Mary Claire: Cheer from the crowd.

We have our TNT dance team coming up shortly, but in the meantime, some crowd participation.

Can I hear your best Santa Claus laugh?

Give me a jolly Santa Claus laugh, Oh.

Oh.

Logan: Now, Mary Clare, one tradition that I know some families do.

I don't know if you do or not.

Do you hide the pickle in your Christmas tree?

Mary Claire: Oh.

You know, I, we don't usually.

There's been miscellaneous year or two here.

There that we do.

That's.

It's fun to do.

You do that?

Logan: We have the pickle ornament, and there's been 1 or 2 year where we actually don't find it.

Next, I like it.

Start out with the tree.

Mary Claire: You just got to get a new one for the next.

Logan: It happens.

Yeah.

Mary Claire Annual sacrifice of the pickle.

There you go.

Logan: And here comes the dynamic TNT dancers.

The TNT dancers were started in 2019 by the nonprofit E.L. Martin Foundatio for success to provide support for youth.

The participant not only practice dance skills, but focus on self-care, self-improvement, physical and mental health, service to others, and much more to the to develop the whole person.

The group is directed by Ernes Martin Senior and is coached by Ernes Martin and Navia Bostick Martin.

Next year will be the first year they are competing in dance competitions.

And.

Mary Claire: They've got the attitude, they've got the moves.

They've got the holiday spirit, the TNT dance team.

Will.

Logan: Pull up.

Next is the Lucas County Canine Care and Control, which is responsible for the care of stray and homeless dogs in Lucas County.

Also known as LC for.

It's a canine only municipal shelter.

Approximately 300 dogs enter their care every month.

Staff and volunteers work hard to reunite dogs with their families, find homes for adoptable dogs, and keep the public safe and educated.

They are excited to move into their brand new Canine Care Center on Monroe Street next year which will provide our community and our dogs with the best care possible.

That one's ready to take a nap.

He's done.

Mary Claire: He got our canines.

From showing up for us today.

I feel good, buddy.

It's it's a morning walk.

Like, no other.

Angel: We are live from the bleachers at the Toledo holiday Parade.

And we are with the lovely.

Hi, Stacy and Emerson and Emerson.

Hi, Emerson.

Is this Emerson's first year at the parade?

As it is, let me say, hey.

Know Emerson is not feeling it today, but what is your core memory from the parade?

I just love being with family.

Watching the kids excitement.

Here is our nieces, nephew and my two kids and my sister and just coming out and kind of kicking off the holiday season.

So is this like a family tradition you do every year?

We have lots of traditions, actually.

This is our.

First in a long time, that we've came down here.

I remember coming in as a little, little kid.

But this is the first time we brought all the other little ones together and came.

And it definitely is the start of a new tradition.

Yes, we are watching the start of a tradition restarting al over again in a whole new way.

Right here.

Mary Claire: The next unit is Med One Care, which has been serving the community for more than 20 years.

Med One Care was our generous sponsor for our volunteers.

Sweatshirts for today's parade and med One care serves Toledo, Finley and 26 surrounding counties.

It offers home health care, medical staffing and outpatient therapy.

It's been voted as one of the blades top workplaces.

For more information on their wonderful services, go to med One Care.

Logan: While we have a little break in the parade here, Mary Claire, do you know the history of how the Christmas tree got to America?

Mary Claire: Oh, you know, I feel like I knew it, but tell me about it.

Logan: It actually comes from Queen Charlotte.

If you're Bridgerton fan, you might know about Queen Charlotte, the Queen of King George the Third.

She brought it over from her native Germany, and that inevitably came to the Americas Kings in 13 colonies.

That's wh we have a Christmas tree today.

Mary Claire: Yeah.

How do you like to decorate your Christmas tree?

Logan: You know, I like the old fashioned way.

Just kind of classic white lights.

We kind of go for that, classic Victorian look.

It's always really nice.

Mary Claire: Nice.

Logan: Next we have the Maritime Academy of Toledo.

The academy provide student with rigorous academic pathways toward college and careers with a personalized learning experience.

Maritime Academy of Toledo emphasizes the education of the whole child, focusing on many traits that will determine future success beyond just academic test scores.

Welcome.

Maritime Academy of Toledo.

Oh, I see frosty coming.

Mary Claire: I'm coming.

I'm dreaming of white Christmas if you are to.

And what better way to to look forward to tha than with this cheerful snowman when winter arrives?

This snowman is a symbol that expresses the seasonal spirit and brings joy and festivity.

Just like the flower blossoms for spring or pumpkin carvings in autumn the snowman is a very well known seasonal figure that makes the winter season filled with lightheartedness.

Sponsoring the snowman balloon is your Toledo.

La-Z-Boy Furniture Galleries.

Logan: And now let's welcome the Anthony Wayne High School marching generals, proudly representing their school community and region.

The Marching Generals are renowned for their unique marching style.

The Anthony Wayne Band has performed throughout the country through the years, including the Circlevill Pumpkin Festival, Indianapolis 500 parade, Kentuck Derby Parade, Magnificent Mile Lights Parade in Chicago, Thanksgiving Day parades in Detroit and Philadelphia, and Walt Disney World.

The Marching Generals are under the direction of Roy Young and Adam Ladd with assistance from Luke Wells, Frank Zeno and Margaret advisor Ashley Flores.

And.

Mary Claire: Thank you to th Anthony Wayne High School band.

And keep playing on my friends.

The Girl Scouts of Wester Ohio are here in western Ohio.

There are more than 36,000 girls.

Girl girl Scouts and 32 counties led by 11,000 adult volunteers.

Founded in 1912, millions of girls from kindergarten to 12th grade have been Girl Scouts.

These girls have endless opportunities to lead, learn new skills and make an impact on their community.

Courage, confidence and character.

Making the world a better place is the Girl Scout mission.

Logan: And we have the Toledo Repertoire Theater.

The cast of the Christmas Carol.

Let's see.

Repertoire theater is happy to share the best wishes of the holiday season.

Celebration.

Performances will be December 5th through the 15th.

It's an annual tradition that's shared with family and friends in our community.

Mary Claire: Marching toward us now is royalty for one nine dance team under the direction of Antoinette Russell.

This hip hop majorette dance team was established in 2017.

The team has auditioned for America's Got Talent and performed at Cleveland Cavaliers and Detroit Pistons games.

Royalty competes and travels across the world, putting on many outstanding and very entertaining performances.

It's Christmas hip hop style with the royalty for a nine dance team.

Thank you.

Logan: What dancers this year?

How?

Well, here comes a crowd favorite.

And Toledo's own, the Glass City Crawlers.

Established in 2016, Glas City Crawlers is a nonprofit off roading club serving Toledo and surrounding areas.

They offer fun, famil friendly events both on and off road for all levels of four by fours and jeeps.

Their mission is to serve as a family oriented club for Off-Road enthusiasts of every caliber.

They welcome like minded individuals that are committed to safe and respectful recreation, both on and off road, while complying with the principles of Tread Lightly, never forgetting that fun is their main event.

The club consists of over 200 plus family memberships and ove 5200 plus followers on Facebook.

It's a large partner of Toledo Jeep Fest and hosts or events over 20 plus events per year.

I see Abominable Snowman there.

Always a classic.

Mary Claire: Got all kinds of film, favorite friends here.

Logan: I'm so happy we have our own little Jeep duck jam as well.

Join the jeep club.

Mary Claire: Is still up here.

And of course, our poinsettias.

Thank you to Tom strain for our beautiful table decoration.

We would like to welcome for the first time the Bennett Venture Academy cheer team.

They are committed to ensuring every student feels supported and protected both physically and emotionally, fostering a sense of stability and community.

That's the Bennett Venture Academy cheer leading team.

Logan: And here comes the clever B Academy, where child care is redefined to focus on early childhood education.

They provide enrichin experiences designed to foster brain development and prepare kids for lifelong learning.

Rate.

Clever B's innovative curriculum emphasizes reading, math, communication, and exploration, equipping little ones with the skills they need to thrive.

Join them in celebrating the importance of early education as they help children reach their full potential.

Mary Claire: Let's welcome staff members and honored talent from POS 102.3 proclaim F and.

This contemporary Christian radio station has been serving the Toledo area since 1966.

Angel: All right.

So we are here with a big group of family and friends who are all very festive.

How do you guys get into the holiday spirit?

As you already are?

I do light shows at my house.

I'm always ready starting in June and start playing Christmas music in June.

The program itself.

Whenever I get to listen to Christmas music, I'm always in the holiday spirit.

So anybody.

Else have way I get into the.

Holiday spirit?

I'm spirit.

You're around.

You can't ever let it go.

Christopher doesn't die one day.

It's a year long.

Things got to keep carrying out and give in to people.

What's your favorite thing about Toledo?

I like going to the zoo for lights for Christmas.

My favorite thing.

We go every year.

We make puppy chow.

We going to do come home an we drive around, look at lights.

Every year.

Thank you.

Logan: Joining us in the parade are representatives of the Lucas County Fair, with members of the Future Farmers Association and four H clubs.

The fair is all about youth and community.

Residents of all ages can participate in friendly competition from livestock, photography, agriculture and more.

The Lucas County Fair is held every July at the Lucas County Fairgrounds in Miami.

Lucas County Fair, where city meets country.

Pretty soon will be hoping for that July weather right?

Now.

Mary Claire: Thank yo to the Toledo Lucas County Fair for joining us in our 2024 Blade Holiday Parade.

And now with their award winning vehicle, which highlights the natural attributes of our beautiful region, we have Metroparks, Toledo, recent trips, planned trips, special performances.

These rolling nature center have been seen in local parades such as UT Homecoming Parade, a downtown holiday parade, Mommy Holiday Parad in the Sylvania Fall Festival, and an interesting fact about this unit representing Metroparks.

Toledo is Wild Wheels, River Rovers, Metroparks mini Bus and Trail Challengers.

Metro parks now encompasses 19 parks, including Middle Grounds and Glass City Metroparks.

The park district offers nature education and outdoor skills programs.

Join the Trail Challenge and.

Logan: Find out how.

And here is you Toledo, E. They were founded back in 1994 when a group of students at the University of Toledo wanted to star building a race car to compete in a collegiate design competition put on by the Society of Automotive Engineers.

Some of you may know C from the You Toledo football games, where they led the team out on the field, or the U. Toledo homecoming parade and a.

And of course go rockets.

Mary Claire: Our next group is the alternative energy team of the Toledo Technology Academy.

The TR Alternative Energy team presents a selection of their student designed and buil alternative energy vehicles for their vehicle.

Energy sources range from people powered quadricycle to electric vehicle Grand Prix racers to re-engineered electric automobiles.

Students put what they learn i the classroom to practical use.

Logan: And u next is the Toledo Rotary Club.

That's the largest rotary club in northwest Ohio, with over 350 Rotarians, and has over 112 years old.

As an organization, they represent business leaders, community leaders and service minded individuals.

Each year they give out over $250,000 back into the community, both locally and internationally.

Grants to nonprofits.

Mary Claire: Now, approximately 15 years ago, Saint Lucas Lutheran Community Outreach was founded by two women Cindy Kirk and Teresa Johnson.

They have worked diligentl to provide help and fellowship for our community.

They provide free hot lunches and bring in speakers such as area Office on Aging, Site Center, Fire Department, and the Police department.

Norma Ramos Prater works with the Latino community and so much more in our pastor, Steve offers communion, prayer and counseling.

Logan And we have read from Radiator Springs Fire Department, sponsored by Springfield Township Fire Department.

It's the retired 1959 Ford fire truck from Springfield Township Fire Department.

Kids, clap your hands for red from Radiator Springs FD from the beloved Disney movie cars.

Mary Claire: The eight marching band is under the direction of Andy, Fritz and Paul.

Sensing.

The band performs at many venues throughout the year, including football games, basketball games, parades, concerts, and other community events.

In the spring, they're planning a trip to Chicago.

Logan: And we have the Reindeer Balloon, sponsored by John Case.

Reindeers have been associated with the holiday season for over 200 years, and sponsoring this holiday favorite is John K's job.

Casey's an online community dedicated to empowering the world's workers.

Mary Claire: Blooming Angels Supportive Services is a local business established in 2018.

Founded by owner Jacqueline Jackson, blooming Angel Supportive Services focuses on helping individuals wit special needs by teaching them basic life skills like cooking, cleaning and finances.

Blooming Ange Supportive Services also offers housing for individuals with special needs so they can have a place of their own.

Blooming angels aim is to get these wonderful people out of facilities and into a space of their own, where they can have a certain level of privacy, comfort and a place to call their own.

Logan: Now, Mary Claire, what are you hoping, for Christmas this year?

Mary Claire: Oh, you mean my Christmas?

Yeah.

Well, I feel like snow.

I love a good white Christmas.

Logan: Yeah I'm hoping to redo my bathroom, but I don't know if that's going to.

And here's the UAW local 12 women's community.

Their mission is to educate women and men on issues concerning our local union.

They help members become active in the local union, and to work in accordance with the policies of the local 12 union, working with the other standing committees and with the Toledo Area UAW Cap Council.

And in our communities, they build self-esteem to help develop leadership skills in women, promote diversity and solidarity.

They thank you and wish everyone a Happy Holidays.

Yeah.

Mary Claire: And now I see parading down the stree the touch a dream dance studio.

Having been in busines for over 16 years, touch a dream dance studio offers a variety of classes to girls and boys ages three through 18 years.

They serve to train children and young adults in the areas of ballet, tap, hip hop, jazz, contemporary, acro and tumbling.

We touch a dance dream studio.

Touch a Dream dance studio, also has a competitive dance teams that compete and perform both locally and out of town, and.

Logan: Right behind them we have the Mecca Temple number 43.

The many Star Union Mecca Temple number 43.

Grenadie club is a community organization right here in Toledo that provides a gathering place for members to socialize and participate in various activities, with a focus on fostering camaraderie.

The club offers a range of events and programs for individuals to enjoy and connect with others in the community.

That looks like fun, but I don't know if I could fit in one of those things.

Mary Claire: Introducing New Generation Boxing, a boxing group from Toledo and also a mentor program.

They have a mixture of boys and girls and young adults in their boxing program.

They also have some national champions.

They are excited to show off your boxing skills for you all today.

Logan: And I'm next.

We have the Clyde Fair royalty.

The 2024 Clyde Fair Queen, Miss Victoria Daniels, junior queen, Miss Lorelei, clearly.

And little Miss Libby Howard.

The Clyde Fair is held annually on the third full weekend in September, featuring musical entertainment rides, games, and concessions.

In addition, the fair boasts its Grand Parade, the Alexa Brown Memorial five K run, and its famous Grand Prix go kart races.

Mary Claire: Nex up, the Mystery Music Company.

Drumline became mystery music is an exclusive one stop shop for performing arts programs for boys and girls, grades 3 to 12.

They promote positive classroom behavior and social success with the community's youth.

A multitude of school systems throughout Toledo for over a decade.

Logan: And new to the parade, Welcome Fame is a studio that provides fitness, acting, modeling and dance and vocal training classes.

Range in ages from 2.5 years old to adults.

They specialize in several styles including jazz, tap, ballet, contemporary, hip hop, praise, dance, and cheer.

Dance.

Mary Claire I think it's been very evident from today's parade.

The art scene is alive and thriving here in Toledo.

Ladies and gentlemen, that's the famed studios for you on the Blade Holiday parade.

Now for our North End neighbors.

Yes, that's North End o rf North end neighbor and local community organization that gives back to the North End.

Residents of Toledo.

Any end began in 2023 to provide community resources to the north end Vistula district north and neighbors hosts several community events throughout the year to help the community, including backpack and school supply, giveaways, coat drives, and helping families with gifts for the holidays.

North End Neighbors also provides the community with a hot meal every Tuesday of the yea through Salem Lutheran Church.

North and neighbors is dedicated to caring for our neighbors and eliminating barriers in any way they can.

Logan: And for the first time in the Blade Holiday Parade, welcome JSU Catholic School JSU is committe to the spiritual, intellectual, physical, and social growth of each students, creating an atmosphere of academic excellence based on values taught by Jesus Christ.

The motto of JSU is we are JSU.

This motto acknowledges that we all work together, helping students realize their full potentia and setting them up for success is their ultimate goal, and.

Mary Claire: Now, the Oak Harbor Apple Festival is held each year in downtown Oak Harbor, the second full weekend in October.

There are over 25,000 annual visitors, and all activities are located within a two block walking area.

Logan: And up next we have the Prestige Schoo of Protocol featuring Princess Tiara and pageant title holders owned by Precious Tate.

Prestige School of Protocol is a charm school, finishing school and boutique etiquette academy teaching women and girls charm, grace and poise.

Please welcome prestige school of protocols 2024 Princess Tiara Fashion show winners making their appearance in the Toledo and the Blade Holiday Parade.

Mary Claire: Celebrating 11 years as a family owned and operated haunted farm attraction and an avid supporter of veterans and first responders.

Presenting Field of Fear.

From goulish zombies and and psychotic doctors to vengeful spirits and ax wielding murderers.

The Field of Fear plays host to some of your most chilling nightmares come to life for.

Logan: Right now we have Froggy Transportation.

Founded in 2024, Frogg Transportation is Toledo's only fixed route airport shuttle service get to and from the Detroit airport easily and affordably this holiday season.

Mary Claire: Here comes Encore Dance Company.

Their goal is to provide dancers from beginning to advance with the dance education that they deserve in a supportive, encouraging atmosphere.

Angel: All right.

We are here with Michael Evans from the Scott.

High School marching band at the Holiday Ballet Parade.

And what is today mean for you all?

Today is great.

You know, a few months ago, I had surgery, and, my blood wall had filled up.

I went back to work.

I woke up twice.

An operating table went the sam day for 500 cc's of blood out.

I went in on a Thursday, came on on a Sunday.

So I started volunteering here with Scott, walking with the band, giving the kids water and things like that just to be some type of inspiration.

When I went back to work, the cancer, my light duty.

So and then instead of getting married and everything, I just had to find my neck.

And I spending time with these kids, being an inspiration and being a light to these kids out here as a father, my daughter's on the she's in the band.

So this this is a great chanc to meet her, spend time with her and spend time with her friends and be.

I'd like to somebody.

And so were you a band ai yourself like your daughter was?

No I wasn't, I went to a totally different school.

My school is no longer here.

I'm a cowboy.

But now, like my daughter said, I'm.

I'm a bulldog.

And once you're a bulldog, you're bulldog for life.

And I. I got to accept that.

And and it's about change these days.

So.

Well, thank you so much.

Logan: Right now we have just drive with Jess of car Chrysler, Jeep Dodge Ram in Adrian, Michigan.

New and pre-owned sales.

That's a new and pre-owned sales consultant.

Jess is putting dreams in driveways by helping customer find not only the right vehicle to fit their needs, but their budget too.

Mary Claire: And holiday greetings from yes I am.

Yes I am is a Christian radio station based in Toledo and associated with iHeart media.

They have been broadcasting for over 32 years with towers in Washington, Lima, Fremont and Toledo.

You can find their app o the Apple Store or Google Play.

Just search SFM Toledo or on Facebook.

Logan: And we have the Portland 4th of July Firecracker Cuties royalty introducing Grand Supreme Queen, Miley Smith and Elite Queen Kinsley Bowen represent the Port Clinton Firecracker Contest held on the 4th of July, open to anyone of all ages, and I hope to see you all there next year.

Mary Claire: Here comes WAKT 106.1 FM.

Toledo's Community radio amplifies unique local voices and provides a platfor for diverse music and stories.

Good job you get that free.

WAKT is the flagshi operation of Toledo Integrated Media Education, a 501 C nonprofit committed to providing a platform for underrepresented perspectives in local media.

Logan: And right now, it' black and white transportation.

Greater Toledo's number one transportation services.

Since 1927, black and whit transportation has been proudly serving the Toledo area.

Many of us recognize their classic black and white taxis and know they're a trusted provider of non-emergency medical transportation, supporting those with mobility challenges.

Mary Claire: Please welcome a new organization in the Toledo community as Isaiah 117 House.

They are changing the way foster care begins.

When kids are removed, they usually go down to children's services and wait in an office cubicle awaiting placement.

The Isaiah 117 house changes all that.

The children will go to a home where they will be welcomed with loving arms.

Volunteers that will play, bake, and make sure they are bathed and able to get new items of clothes, shoes and anything else they may need to go to their new home.

For more information, visit Lucas O h at Isaiah 117 house.com.

Logan: And now we are proud to have the Ohio State Highway Patrol with us today.

The State Highway Patrol trains and maintains many officers in specialized law enforcement positions, including plainclothe investigators, traffic and drug interdiction teams and K-9 officers, commercial enforcement coordinators and inspectors, and crash, crash, Reconstructionist.

For more information, visit State patrol.ohio.gov.

All right.

Mary Claire: Here come Santa's little helpers making spirits bright.

Santa's little helpers from cornerstone care giving established in the Toledo area in 2020, Cornerstone Caregiving serves veteran and community members throughout northwest Ohio and Southeast Michigan.

Working in and with the community to make the world better.

One day at a time.

Happy holidays from the cornerstone.

Caregiving.

Santa's helpers.

Logan: And we really appreciate our next unit, especially during this time of the year.

It's the United States Marine Corps Reserve Toys for tots program originated in 1947, in Los Angeles, but now is celebrating its 76th year.

The program spans all 50 states and American territories.

This unit the Marines of Weapons Company, first Battalion, 24th Marines station in Perrysburg and collects toys across northwest Ohio.

Last Christmas it delivered 2020 toys to 6200 children in need, and Lucas, Wood and Ottawa counties finally drop off location.

To donate.

To learn more or to get involved, go to Perrysburg o h dot toys for tots.org.

Mary Claire: We'd like to mention, too, that the Monroe Dodge Chrysler Jeep Superstore was a sponsor of those sweatshirts, which are so cozy and fashionable.

This Blade holiday parade.

And now from the North Pole t Toledo, we are sure are happy.

Santa Clau found a time to visit us again.

This year.

You know how busy jolly old Saint Nick is with the holidays approaching.

What a special treat for all of the children.

Logan: Looks like we have the Grinch and Santa both.

Both by each other.

Mary Claire: And you know what?

We practiced our Santa Claus left earlier.

Can we hear it again?

Give a jolly ho for a Santa Claus.

Merry Christmas, Santa Claus... thank you for coming to Toledo.

Christmas, Christmas for you.

Say holiday.

Happy holidays.

Holidays Christmas Christmas.

Holidays.

Holidays.

Christmas.

Toledo.

Oh.

Thank you, Santa Claus.

Mary Claire: That wraps up this beautiful day.

And a fantastic parade.

The blade would like to thank those who participated, and all of you who came out today to support this annual tradition.

Have a wonderful and safe holiday season.

Everyone.

Angel: Hello friends!

Our sunny day here at the parade is coming to an end, but we are here with the lovely Miss Reagan.

How are you?

Good.

We're also here with mom.

So, mom, you did tell us that this is your first year coming to the parade?

What has it been like watchin your daughter be in the parade?

Oh, it's so fun.

She couldn't do it last yea because she had a hockey game.

So this year, she was super excited to go with all her friends and dance in the parade.

And the best part is nice weather.

So it wasn't too cold s she can make it the whole way.

And Reagan, do you think you'll do it again next year?

Yeah.

Yes.

Well thank you guys so much.

Have a happy holidays and Merry Christmas.

You two have a happy holiday.

Hearing you say bye.

Thank you.

You're welcome.

Let's catch up with Kathy for any last words.

Cathy: Hi there.

We're here at the holiday parade with Heather Pacheco.

Hi, Heather.

Thank you for joining me.

Can you tell us a little bit about what you do?

Heather: Absolutely.

I am the associate events director at the blade, and I perform events for the blade.

And today was our 37th annual holiday parade.

Oh.

Cathy: That's fantastic.

What fun.

Heather: It was such a great day.

Cathy: Yes, a really great day.

Oh, my gosh.

I've always wondered why the parade is done so early in November.

Heather: You know, it's just a way to kick off the season and the holidays.

And we want everybody to star feeling in the holiday spirit.

So we start it in the usually the second or third weekend in November every year, and it just gets everyone i the spirit.

Cathy: That's right.

It kind of hits everybody before they travel, you know, which is kind of nice.

What was your favorite part of the parade?

Heather: Well, I'm you know, I'm always partial to Santa, the big guy.

So.

Yeah.

And the kids and the dance groups and the floats and the marching bands.

Cathy: Yeah, yeah, the dance groups.

So much dancing and arts this year.

Heather: Yes.

There were I mean, we were an extra large parade this year, but it's very hard to say no to the groups who want to be involved.

Great participation.

And they're they're alway so wonderful to watch perform.

Cathy: Oh, my gosh, the arts is alive in Toledo.

And then the veterans and everybody was so represente here.

Heather: Yes, they were.

So we had a really great broad range of participants and attendees, and we just had a great day.

Cathy: It was a really great day.

Do you think there'll be any changes or additions you would make for next year's parade?

Heather: Gosh, you never know.

We always have things to think about, right?

So, we'd love to see more bands.

We'd love to see more marching units and dancers and, any any more of the art that happen in downtown Toledo.

Cathy: I don't know about you guys, but I'm always interested to know how this all comes together.

Heather: Well, we start planning probably about four months out, and we start taking, you know, calls and email and getting our groups together and our bands.

And of course, we make sure Santa is ready to come from the North Pole and get his travel and that's what we do.

We just get it all together.

Cathy: Get to rearrange those travel arrangements for him.

Right.

And it takes like the whole community to do this, to make such a great event.

That is so cool.

Heather, that is so great.

Thank you for everything you do.

Heather: Thank you for everything, you guys.

You're a great partner.

Cathy: We love partnering with you.

And thank you for watching the 37th Annual Blade Holiday Parade, presented in conjunction with the distinguished Clown Corps.

Happy holidays to you from all of us at WGTE Public Media.