Reflecting on the Spirit of the Season and the Community’s Support

Salida, CO – November 30, 2024– Another Parade of Lights hosted by High Country Bank and the City of Salida was a spectacular celebration of community spirit, bringing together over 35 creative entries under the festive theme of Gingerbread Village. Community members gathered to enjoy the parade and celebrate the holiday season with more mild temperatures than last year.

Robin NeJame, Community Outreach Director at High Country Bank, reflected on the special night, expressing her gratitude to those who contributed to the success of the event:

“As the Parade of Lights kicked off, I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude because of the people who make Salida so special. It truly takes a village to make something like this happen, and we are so thankful to everyone who helped bring this event to life.”

High Country Bank extends heartfelt thanks to the City of Salida for its ongoing partnership, including the event coordinators, parks and public works teams, and the dedicated members of the police and fire departments. A special thanks also goes out to Chaffee County Search and Rescue, whose efforts ensured the parade’s smooth and safe operation.

The parade also included the festive contributions of the Salida Rotary and the Interact Club, who kept attendees warm with hot cocoa and cider. A special shout-out goes to Jerry McCabe, the parade’s beloved Grand Marshal, and Lisa Nagle, whose efforts illuminated Tenderfoot Mountain, adding to the holiday magic that Salida is known for.

“We are so fortunate to have such dedicated community members who give their time and talents to make events like the Parade of Lights possible,” NeJame continued. “From the volunteer judges, Starr Belmonte, Kelley Jones, and Ken Brandon, to the parade participants themselves—over 35 entries this year—it was a spectacular show of Salida’s creativity and community spirit.”

A big thank you also goes to Chelsea Sack, the event director, for her hard work and dedication in organizing this year’s Parade of Lights. Chelsea’s commitment to making this event a success ensured that the night was an unforgettable celebration for all who attended. Additionally, thanks to Audrey Petersen-Kien and the Care Committee at High Country Bank for their behind-the-scenes efforts and support in making this event a reality. Their work exemplifies the bank’s commitment to serving the Salida community. Thank you to Josh Valerio for helping turn the original “Santa House” into a magical gingerbread house. There is forty years of history in those walls, and we look forward to sharing the stories with our community.

Thanks to DJ Deano for providing the perfect soundtrack throughout the event, and to our fabulous emcee, Dan R from Heart of the Rockies Radio, for keeping the energy high and the crowd entertained throughout the night.

The parade concluded with a stunning fireworks display, thanks to the Salida Fire Department’s careful preparations. Reach Helicopter also provided a thrilling flyover at the start of the parade, adding excitement to the evening.

The Gingerbread Village theme was beautifully brought to life by all the parade participants, whose floats sparkled with holiday cheer. The judges had a difficult time choosing winners from so many imaginative and festive floats. Congratulations to:

· Top Non-Profit Float: FibArk

· Top Commercial Float: Kyle Stoddard

· Judge’s Choice: A collaboration from The Vic, Bunny and Clyde’s, The Velveteen, and the Salida Starlettes

High Country Bank also expressed its gratitude to Santa for making a special appearance and bringing holiday cheer to Salida’s streets.

“Thank you to everyone who joined us in celebrating the season,” said Chelsea Sack, event director. “We’re grateful for the community’s support and love for this event, and we can’t wait to see you next year to continue the tradition!”

About High Country Bank High Country Bank is a locally owned and operated community bank with deep roots in the Salida area. As part of its commitment to the community, High Country Bank hosts events like the Parade of Lights to celebrate the season and support the spirit of togetherness that makes Salida such a special place to live and visit.