Marysville has named Jim Ballew this year’s Grand Marshal of the Merrysville for the Holidays parade, set for Dec. 2. Ballew is the director of the city’s Parks, Culture and Recreation Department and has shepherded the Merrysville festival since its start 29 years ago.
When the holiday festival started, it included Santa, cookies and music in a former gazebo at Comeford Park. Now, it’s grown to include a holiday parade and water tower lighting.
“Establishing a tradition that’s really important to this community — I’m proud of that,” Ballew said.
Parks staff starts preparing for the Merrysville celebration mid-year and their energy increases as the date gets closer. “On the day of,” he said, “we feel like Santa’s elves.”
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