|
ZOE SZUCH
This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it
Despite some early morning thunderstorms,
Hatters lined the streets of downtown to celebrate the Medicine Hat
Stampede Parade on Thursday morning.
More than 130 participant entries weaved
through downtown with local volunteers, employees and dignitaries
which included Mayor Norm Boucher, MP Monte Solberg, MLA Rob Renner
and honoured Stampede guest and Detroit Red Wings general manager,
Ken Holland.
Representatives from the RCMP, the
Medicine Hat Police Service, the Medicine Hat Fire Department, and
CFB Suffield made appearances in the parade as did countless local
businesses, organizations and teams.
Parade Chairman and Marshal Ted Flemmer
said, "from my vantage point, it went really well."
Flemmer estimated 20,000 people attended
the parade even though the Hat had less than favourable weather.
"And from what I could see, I think that (number) is slightly
higher than last year. They are loyal fans and I think they came
out in full force," he said.
One attendee, Gail Gee, said she's been
watching the Stampede Parade every year for the last 30 years.
"I thought it was OK, but some floats were
really spread out," she said.
Nine-year-old Keely Martin said this
isn't her first time at the parade and it probably won't be her
last time. "I liked the clown cars the best," she said.
Keely's mom, Christina, was annoyed at
the blatant display of alcohol and partying on some floats.
"I honestly don't think they should be
partying on the back of a float," said the day care provider.
"Girls in bikinis, with a beer in their hand? The children will
think that alcohol is fun. No alcohol next time."
The Historic Clay District's float won
first place in the Organizations class and Quentin Randall,
marketing and fundraising co-ordinator, said, "the staff really
took this upon themselves and really ran with it."
Executive director of the Historic Clay
District, Barry Finkelman, said, "We are really so proud of our
staff." |
