Martinez Parade on tap for Sunday, Dec. 2

Editor:

This is intended as a reminder to those who may not be aware that Christmas is almost upon us. Among the seasonal festivities and events, there will be numerous parades held in our area. Too often we attend and enjoy such events without really realizing just how much time and energy is expended by the volunteer organizers. A Christmas parade doesnt just happen.

One good example is the Martinez Christmas Parade, which will be held on Sunday, Dec. 2 at 2 p.m., beginning at Columbia Square Shopping Center. Sponsored by the Merchants Association of Columbia County, this particular parade has been held for approximately three decades.

The organization was founded in 1962 as The Martinez Merchants Asso-ciation, but due to the rapid population growth, it has been expanded to encompass all of Columbia County.

The Association, which also includes the annual fall fair as one of its projects, is comprised of individuals and businesses that volunteer a great deal of time and effort in providing family entertainment for our area. It also provides scholarships and contributions to numerous worthwhile causes.

I hope that we will all show our support by attending the parades held in our area.

Phil Blanchard

Martinez

(Phil Blanchard is publisher emeritus of The Columbia County News-Times, and a member of the Merchants Association of Columbia County.)