Article and photos by Marty Proctor
Groveland themed this year’s holiday celebration, “Hometown Heroes Holiday Celebration” and hosted a wide range of family-oriented events that started on December 4 and wrapped up with a parade saluting the Hometown Heroes on December 12. The events were enjoyed by the local residents, guests, and friends and social distancing and COVID precautions didn’t hamper the joyous holiday spirit.
Visit With Santa and Mrs Claus – On Friday and Saturday evenings, David and Jean Littiken were on hand and in costume with smiles on their faces for their 10th annual Christmas in Groveland. While appointments were requested, Santa and Mrs Claus turned no one away. The Littikens have 2 kids of their own and 8 “grandies”. “It’s great!” Jean enthusically exclaimed. David and Jean continued, “We’ve watched a lot of these kids grow up. We have a lot of other kids we ‘claim’ in the community.” Local resident James Dunn is one of those they ‘claim’ even though he is now an adult. James shared a story from his childhood where the Littikens facilitated a toy and gift collection to save the Dunn family’s Christmas much to their surprise and pleasure.
Groveland held their annual tree lighting ceremony on Saturday, December 5. The Mayor and City Council along with Doug Shields, the newly elected District 1 County Commissioner were on hand to flip the switch after the countdown. Food trucks were available. Live music from several local school bands played Christmas music classics all evening from the new Lake David Park band stage.
Friday December 11 saw the third installment of the Groveland Farmer’s Market. It’s held 5-9 pm every second Friday on the street adjacent to Lake David Park. Heather Gillis performed live throughout the evening covering a wide variety of music. The sound was excellent and social distancing viewing was available.
Food trucks and local vendors were on hand highlighting an array of local businesses. The International DarkSky Association was also present explaining the use of modern shielded lighting to protect our views of the stars at night. The Kiwanis Club was on hand offering adult beverages in compliance with Groveland’s new open container laws.
Hometown Heroes Parade
The big finale came on Saturday morning, December 12 with the Hometown Heroes parade. Dozens of floats, groups, bands, and local police and fire departments paraded through the streets. Co-Grand Marshals on the parade were two World War II veterans Jean Charron and Glenn Turner were given honor rides at the front of the parade. Oakley (the sports performance equipment and eyeglass company) was on hand to make a presentation to the Grand Marshals to help ensure a memorable day for them. “Thanks to the City of Groveland for honoring your local heroes today,” stated a local company representative. “Your service embodies the true spirit of America. Thank you so much gentlemen.” This was reported to be the first event of this type for Oakley.
Mayor Evelyn Wilson presented the two veterans with 2020 Hometown Heroes Grand Marshal commemorative plaques celebrating the day and honoring their service.
The Groveland Historical Society float honoring the different armed forces services was the winner for best float.
