The University’s “Whooo-ville” themed float—complete with the Grinch (President Ray Rice), his dog Max (Ben Shaw), and a parliament of snowy owls (instead of Whos)—received the trophy for best non-profit float in this year’s Holiday Light Parade, held on Dec. 1.
The University also hosted its annual holiday reception at Gentile Hall ahead of the parade. The Central Aroostook Chamber of Commerce’s Holiday Light Parade draws thousands of spectators to the Downtown for what has become a traditional kick-off to the season in The County.
With the design expertise of UMPI Art Club-Studio 923 and Hyrum Benson, this year’s entry included the Athletics gator transformed into the Grinch’s sleigh. The crew sewed together yards and yards of festive, red material to create the giant toy bag that sat like a mountain atop the gator. And with the help of Sarah Brooks, the Grinch and Max were able to complete the look by sporting an authentic horse whip, harness and sleigh bells. The float itself featured a whooo-filled holiday scene, with Hootie the Owl, two little snowy owls, a properly decorated holly-who tree, and lots of presents.
This year’s parade route started at UMPI and ended at North Street Healthcare facility with the parade awards ceremony as well as hot cocoa and cookies inside the main lobby as the entries made their way to North Street.
During parade line-up, Jason and Cooper Towers and Jenn and Reagan Deschene served as a “hosting crew,” delivering hot cocoa, cookies, and good cheer to people waiting in line for the parade to begin.
This year’s Light Parade committee members included Vanessa Pearson, Hyrum Benson, Amanda Baker, and Rachel Rice.
