By Beth Christian
Broschart
The Parsons Advocate
PARSONS – The carnival has packed up and left, but the memories from this year’s Parsons Volunteer Fire Department Homecoming Fair will last a lifetime. Parsons VFD Chief Kevin White said he is grateful for all the community support for this vital fundraiser for the department.“We are grateful for the community support of the fair,” White said. “This is a very important fundraiser for the fire department. We appreciate the community coming out and supporting us. We had a nice week, with the exception of Saturday. But Saturday was not a total loss – we had plenty of people who came out and enjoyed everything.”
White said participation in Saturday’s parade was large, especially considering the poor weather.
“We had some adverse weather, but we are glad folks came out to support us and have some fun,” White said.
“I also want to thank the Parsons Community businesses,” White said. “It is somewhat trying for them because some are blocked up a little bit and their doorways are blocked. But they are all great to work with and they understand it is only four or five days out of one week in the year, and they understand how important this Fair is in providing vital funding for the fire department.”
The week kicked off with a poker run last Saturday and the carnival began setting up and opened Wednesday. Performances by Ryan Cain and the Ables, Michael Christopher and Shane Runion on the downtown stage gave residents the opportunity to listen to some fine music.
On Thursday, the Children’s Parade featured kids in strollers, kids with horses, kids in wagons and one princess driving in a mini car.
On Friday night, people competed during the Performance Motors Karaoke Showdown. The event gives local community members their time to shine and show of their many talents.
All during the week, folks could play bingo downtown, ride all kinds of amusement rides, and eat a variety of food including corn dogs, candy apples, cotton candy, funnel cakes and popcorn.
Saturday’s Parade saw fire department apparatus from all across the state. The weather was cold and wet, but could not dampen the spirits of those participating or cheering the entries on. After the parade, folks gathered for a hot dog feast.
On Saturday, fire department personnel also participated in a water battle.
The sponsors for the PVFD Homecoming Fair include the City of Parsons, Parsons PRO ON TRAC, Tucker County Parks and Recreation Commission, the Parsons Volunteer Fire Department and Performance Motor Sales Inc.
“We appreciate the help of our sponsors,” White said.
Winners from events throughout the week will be announced in the May 25 edition of The Parsons Advocate.
