Thursday, December 10, 2009 By Narineh Ohanian HO HO HO: Robotics Club member junior Laura Widholm waves to the crowd as she walks alond the parade. - Ivetta Babadjanian Advertising Montrose celebrates the Christmas season (December 10, 2009) -- Jingle bells and children’s laughter filled the atmosphere as the parade began. About 10,000 people were huddled on the sidewalk with blankets and lawn chairs, fighting the cold air as the first of the entertainment marched in. City officials in antique cars strolled by, waving to the crowds. On Sat. Dec. 5, the 33rd annual Montrose-Glendale Christmas Parade began with Christmas carols and an abundance of Christmas spirit. Clark volunteers soon arrived, carrying banners and marching in the parade. Just days before, Key Club had sent two leaders to an informational meeting where they received the tasks for 30 volunteers. The Key Club members were assigned to carry banners throughout the parade and assist the scout groups as they entered the parade route. Clark’s volunteers met at the Citibank, on Honolulu Ave., before the parade began and received their designated volunteer jackets. Freshman Anahit Khachatryan, one of the Key Club representatives at the informational meeting, carried a banner during the parade. "This was my first time seeing a parade, and being involved—just helping out—made my experience that much better," Khachatryan said. "Since I got to walk through the parade twice, I feel like I have participated more than just that one time." Many other Clark students were not only volunteering at the parade, but attended the parade with Clark’s numerous clubs, including the Robotics Club. Students marched with signs representing their club and showing off their projects. Junior Laura Widholm greeted parade spectators and guided the robotics prototypes. "I was able to show my friends my accomplishments in something that I love," Widholm said. The parade showcased many banners, schools and men and women on horses and motorcycles. The night reached its climax as Santa flew in on a helicopter, lighting up the sky with his bright suit. All the children started cheering loudly, as he waved to them, wishing them a "Merry Christmas."

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