PEORIA, Ill. – A special group of people were named the grand marshals of the 134th Santa Claus Parade in downtown Peoria — and for good reason.
First responders have seen and dealt with a lot in the almost two years since the COVID-19 pandemic began, and Peoria Firefighter Rick Waldron says he and his colleagues are honored to be recognized.
“It’s kind of humbling. It’s awesome that they asked us,” said Waldron. “When we found out the other day, we were kind of excited that they considered us. Now, we’re just happy to be here.”
Waldron says COVID-19 has presented many challenges for firefighters, including a loss of an engine company locally, recently rectified by the Peoria City Council.
“Our people were getting injured, sleep-deprived, so now it’s just been a good thing to have this thing back,” said Waldron. “It’s the best thing for the citizens.”
The return of Peoria’s Santa Claus Parade after changes last year due to COVID-19 brought out some new spectators Friday, like Kyanne Block of Pekin.
“I’ve never been here before, and I thought it would be a good experience to bring my grandson out here to watch the parade,” said Block, near the starting point.
Block — dressed in layers with parade-time temperatures in the 20’s — says things like parades are definitely needed these days.
“I think it’s a good experience and to get the community together to enjoy the holidays,” said Block.
Block was joined by a downtown full of residents and their families witnessing the local kickoff to the holidays.
Mary Dawson might have had one of the best jobs at this year’s parade.
“We’re giving out free…hot chocolate,” said Dawson.
Close enough. After all, temperatures were in the 20’s at parade time Friday. Dawson, of Riverside Christian Church, says while she’s just as glad as anyone to have the parade back this year, and the smiles it can bring, there’s still something more important.
“People are all caught up in the business of Christmas, and the presents and everything. But they don’t really realize or recognize the spiritual aspect,” said Dawson. “It’s freedom. It’s peace on Earth.”
Will Stevenson/1470 & 100.3 WMBD
Rick Hirschmann/1470 & 100.3 WMBD
Will Stevenson/1470 & 100.3 WMBD
