2016 Jacksonport Thanksgiving Day Parade to Benefit Marsha Wilson

For 20 years, a grassroots group of caring individuals has hosted a quirky parade on Thanksgiving Day to raise funds to help their neighbors. This year the parade, starting at 10:30 am, will benefit Jacksonport native Marsha Wilson. Wilson, a veteran of the Jacksonport Fire Department and a first responder, developed physical damage to her hip and knee. She has undergone hip surgery and will undergo knee surgery in December. She needs a little help getting through these rough times, which is the mission of the parade and benefit. Bucket donations are collected along the parade route. Gibraltar DECA and the Sevastopol Student Council are hosting a raffle at Island Fever Restaurant and Rum Bar. Individuals pick a card for a deck of cards for $10 each, which earns them the chance to win one of 52 prizes.

In addition to helping Wilson, Gibraltar and Sevastopol students will purchase Christmas gifts for families in need through Feed My People/Clothe My People. Gibraltar DECA member Alexis Schnick said, “When I heard that some kids just ask for pajamas for Christmas, I felt guilty. We are very fortunate and sometimes we take what we have for granted.”

The Grand Marshals of this year’s parade are Joe and Sue Jarosh. All are welcome to be in the parade. Parade participants need to meet at the ballpark between 9:30 and 10 am. The Jacksonport Area Business Association sponsors a $100 prize for the best entry. For more information, call Mary Witteborg at 920.421.0719.