By Judy Reed

The annual “Mingle with Kris Kringle” in downtown Cedar Springs gets a little bigger every year, and is starting to become a tradition for families in the community.

Last Saturday’s event, sponsored by the Cedar Springs Area Chamber of Commerce, was a day-long affair, and kicked off with about 40 kids and adults showing up at the library to make decorations to hang on the tree. Perry Hopkins, who organized the event for Chamber, said there was also a great turnout for the story time with Mrs. Clause at Perry’s Place llc for herbs, teas and more, and the Christmas Puzzle time with Santa’s Elves at Alpha Omega Coffee and Games.

There was one glitch—the parade started a half hour late because Santa was running later than expected. But on the bright side, the parade had more participants this year, with the American Legion walking in it, and the cheerleaders leading Santa. Mayor pro-tem Pam Conley also walked in the parade, and helped Santa with his countdown for the tree lighting.

The Red Flannel Queen and Court mingled with residents near the tree, while waiting for Santa, and there was also a petting zoo, and a live nativity by Calvary Assembly of God Church.

The Cedar Springs Historical Society held a tour of the museum after the tree lighting (see page 2).