Western Wonderland is a hit
Peabody Main Street Christmas committee propped up their collective feet Sunday and breathed a sigh of relief that the Western Wonderland weekend went well.
"There were some glitches," said Main Street director Kristen Hooper, "but nothing major.
"For instance, we ran out of food toward the end of the chuck wagon supper. That's something you don't like to see. On the other hand, if you are going to have a problem, that is a good one to have.
"We were very pleased. We had many positive comments and people seemed to have a lot of fun," she said.
According to Hooper the Western Wonderland Parade had a good number of entries.
"Some canceled at the last because of the weather," she said. "But still, there were 23 plus Santa Claus. And lots of groups spent some serious time creating their floats. There were some excellent entries."
The top three parade entries were selected by a panel of five judges. A first place prize of $75 went to Sunshine Preschool, the second prize of $50 went to the Peabody-Burns Warrior band, and the third prize for $25 went to Peabody Township Library. The parade was sponsored by Peabody Main Street. Prizes were given in Peabody Bucks.
Also a part of the weekend was the announcement of the home lighting contest winners. Judges toured Peabody on the evenings of Nov. 29 and 30 to select the homes they liked best. The contest was sponsored by Peabody Economic Development and Peabody Main Street. Peabody State Bank gave the prize money.
The first place winners were Ron and Debra Miller of 309 Spruce. They won $100. Second place went to Bessie Michaelis of 702 N. Walnut in the amount of $75. Third place was won by Jon and Esther Brooks at 109 N. Olive. Their prize was $25.
Prizes were again given in Peabody Bucks.
Western wreaths made of lariats were entered in a silent auction by 12 people. Funds from the auction will go toward the purchase of welcome banners for the downtown light poles.
"The wreaths generated $488," said Hooper. "We were really pleased with the number of people participating and the money raised.
"Two of the entries were made by people who live out of town and it was great that they wanted to support our community.
"Peabody Main Street will be working with the Christmas light committee and groups like the historical society to select a design that best reflects our downtown," said Hooper. "The funds from the wreath auction will give us a good start on this project."
The Peabody Prairie Christmas committee will meet soon to review the celebration and look at the pros and cons.
"Yea, everyone was kind of tired by Saturday night," said Hooper. "But it was a rootin' tootin' good time.
"And wait 'til you see what we come up with for next year!"
