Kiwanis Community Parade rolls through St. Helens

In the early 80s, Kiwanis took the reins on the annual community parade in St. Helens. This year's parade took place on Saturday, June 21. According to Kiwanis Vice-President Judy Johnson, the parade saw a "die hard participation" with entries both local and out of town stretching "about a mile long." The parade's theme was "Show off your wheels" and, according to Johnson, brought big wheels, little wheels, trucks, racecars, mini coopers, vintage autos, a crane, backhoe, cement truck, pedal power, tractor, three wheelers, and even a fish named "Claudia." Belonging to Columbia Soil & Water Conservation District, Claudia was seen "roller skating down the river." Other participants included St. Helens Elk Lodge #1999, which won the President's Choice award with its clever "Wheel of Fortune" float, featuring Carrie McMahon as Vanna White. The wheel displayed "all the charitable giving this Elks #1999 provides children and families," according to Johnson. Other participants included students Keely Scoville, Jaxon Burgard, and Ash Hanson carrying the Kiwanis banner, as well as others from St. Helens High School.