Independent Bank sponsors Santa Parade in Grand Rapids
November 13, 2007
GRAND RAPIDS – The Independent Bank and Jaycees Santa Parade, a tradition of more than 100 years in West Michigan, will usher in the holiday season when it rolls through downtown Grand Rapids at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Nov. 17, 2007. The parade will be broadcast live from 10 a.m. to noon on WZZM-TV 13.
“The Santa Parade is one of the great traditions in West Michigan and we’re excited to once again be a part of it,” Independent Bank President Mike Magee said. “Nothing is quite as exhilarating as a young child’s face at his or her first sight of Santa. For more than 100 years, this parade has provided our community’s families with an opportunity to welcome St. Nick to West Michigan.”
The parade, complete with helium balloon floats, high school marching bands and community entries, will begin at the corner of Monroe Avenue and Michigan Street traveling south on Monroe Avenue. The parade will then turn left onto Monroe Center, right onto Division Avenue and then right again on Fulton Avenue, concluding at the corner of Fulton and Market Avenue.
“We’re thrilled that Independent Bank has continued the tradition of teaming with the Grand Rapids Jaycees to kick off the holiday season,” said Nick Wasmiller, co-chair of the Santa Parade for the Grand Rapids Jaycees.
Immediately following the parade, children can visit with Santa at the downtown Independent Bank at 86 Monroe Center. As part of the event, children can have their photo taken with Santa for free. Independent Bank will provide each photo instantly. Independent Bank also will provide free cookies and hot chocolate.
Approximately 12,000 people attended last year’s parade that consisted of more than 80 entries.
The Grand Rapids Jaycees, which offers leadership training through community service for young professionals ages 21-40, has organized and operated the Independent Bank and Jaycees Santa Parade since 1969. It also organizes and operates other community events such as the Children’s Holiday Shopping Tour and Special Olympics Basketball Tournament.
