This year’s theme is “Preserving Treasured Memories of Christmas Past,” which was chosen to honor 2016’s grand marshal, The 40s Bunch. The grand marshal this year is a group of people who have worked to help preserve past history and culture to enhance the future. Members of The 40s Bunch were instrumental in reorganizing the Historical Society in the Cortez area, and they continue their efforts to find a museum space and open a learning center.
The Parade of Lights is held each year by the 4-Corners Board of Realtors as a gift back to the community. There is no fee to have an entry in the parade, but an entry form is required. The 4-Corners Board of Realtors awards first-, second- and third-place cash prizes to each of three categories, and judges will be at Market and Main streets to observe the floats.
Entry forms will be at The Journal’s office at 8 W. Main St. in downtown Cortez, The-Journal.com and in The Journal newspaper.
Entrants may also get an entry form by calling or stopping by Century 21 West Slope Realty, 565-8408, or email terrymc@move2swcolo.com. All entry forms must be returned to Terry McCabe at Century 21 West Slope Realty.
Last year, hundreds of vehicles lined both sides of Main Street for the 2015 Parade of Lights, which featured some 70 entrants, even though temperatures dipped into the mid-30s.
The entrants were judged on music and lights, creativity, theme development and workmanship. First-, second- and third-place parade floats were awarded cash prizes of $250, $200 and $100, respectively.
Taking first-place honors were the Montezuma County Fair Board in the nonprofits category, Diesel Technology in the commercial category, and the Four Corners Roller Derby team in the miscellaneous category, according to McCabe. The parade is sponsored by Four Corners Board of Realtors.
Second-place winners included the Tree House Early Learning Center, Lewis Fire Department and ATC/Stormy’s Gymnastics. Third-place winners included Cortez FFA, Arriola Bible Church and Stotz Equipment.
