“The Roanoke Rapids Christmas Parade is based on traditions,” Parks and Recreation Director John Simeon said today. “One of those traditions is that we are a tight-knit community and the support that he has been shown is an example of that.” 

Simeon said the response from the family was overwhelming. “They are really looking forward to the Christmas parade. I talked to Will and he is especially excited about being chosen grand marshal of the Christmas parade.”

The decision to name Hawkins grand marshal was a unanimous one by the staff of the parks department and Citizens Community Bank, which is also sponsoring the December 8 parade.

Meanwhile, Simeon said having an entire year to plan rather than eight weeks to plan for the parade like last year is putting the parade in better shape. “It's making it easier on the whole staff.”

Judges for the parade will be at city hall this year rather than the library so they can judge the bands when they are fresh.

The parade has already received commitments from three Shrine units and organizers are in the process of securing bands and are particularly looking to book a collegiate band this year for the event, which starts at 2 p.m. on Roanoke Avenue.

More information on the parade can be found at its website.