The Parade

Did you know Norton has a St. Patrick's Day Parade? Well, we do now.

In a somewhat spur of the moment movement, seven local kids kicked off a new Norton tradition. They marched along the "Shamrock Stretch" of Main Street adorned in their best green finery and finished off at St. Mary's Church where they handed off a donation.

The event began under the American and Irish flags at Bridget's An Irish Tradition on Saturday at 1:30 on St. Patrick's Day itself. The marchers made their way down the sidewalk on West Main Street. The procession then needed to cross at the crosswalk near the appropriately green Hess gas station (because the sidewalk ends on the southbound side of the street). Next they meandered their way around the sweeping "Keltic Kurve" (at Trinity Restaurant and Tom's Barber Shop). Then it was the home stretch where they once again needed to cross the road at the Middle School crosswalk to reach the destination, St. Mary's Church.

After a quick photo at the sign they descended upon the parish center to finish the task. They were able to find volunteers from the Knights of Columbus and presented the donation.

A good time was had by all. The kids kept a running tally of 51 horn salutes by supportive cars passing by during the 15 minute walk. The loudest tribute came from a Waste Management truck with its booming horn.

It was unanimously agreed that the event will happen again next year and the goal is 20 marchers, 100 horn salutes and even more money to help the charitable efforts of St. Mary's.

Details will be announced next March and all are welcome to participate.