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Hello again. It’s been a while since we’ve had one of these columns. And they may start becoming more of a monthly rather than a weekly. But let’s get started.

One of the best parts of this time of year are the Christmas parades. Families line the streets and watch as floats drive by. There are musical performances, church groups, high school bands and, of course, Santa Claus himself. The tradition here in America dates all the way back to 1888. The year before, in Peoria, Illinois, the city residents held a parade down the river to celebrate the opening of a new bridge.

In 1888, the Schipper and Block Department Store sponsored a parade that December following the same route. Instead of going down the river this time, different floats and groups marched along the street. And this time, they had a special guest at the end of the parade, just as we do now. Santa Claus was on hand in his sleigh, greeting children and giving out candy.

Around here, there’s a couple more parades coming up this weekend. Since we had that nasty weather last Sunday, the Cumberland Christmas Parade was moved. Now it’ll be held this coming Sunday, Dec. 17, beginning at 2 p.m. Also taking place this weekend will be the Dillwyn Christmas Parade. It’ll be Sunday, Dec. 17 as well, starting at 3 p.m. 

As far as other events taking place, the Buckingham County Christian Fellowship Association, a non-profit organization, will host their annual Christmas Banquet on Saturday, Jan. 13, beginning at 1 p.m. That’ll be held at Buckingham Baptist Church, located at 24234 North James Madison Highway, in the Gold Hill area of New Canton. All members are encouraged to attend and bring a covered dish and a good appetite. So come, let’s enjoy good fellowship, fun and food together.

Appomattox Bluegrass Presents Junior Sisk on Sunday, Jan. 21 at 2 p.m. at the Appomattox County High School. That’s located at 198 Evergreen Avenue. Tickets are $25 at the door or $20 in advance. 

Tickets can be purchased in Farmville at Taylor Forbes Equipment Co., in Dillwyn at Fisher Auto Parts, Cumberland Buggy Top, Lynchburg at Mcbride Blackburn Opticians or pay by check Appomattox Bluegrass P.O. Box 373 Appomattox Va. 24522. Proceeds to benefit Appomattox County High School Athletic Boosters Club.

As we wrap up today, first we offer happy birthday wishes to Linda Miles of Cumberland, who celebrates on Thursday, Dec. 21. 

And second, we send a special prayer out to all the sick and shut-in.

Annie May Miles is the columnist for Trent’s Mill. She can be reached at fatcat091@verizon.net.