Bluffton Shines Bright with Heartwarming Christmas Parade!
The Spirit of Community Comes to Life
Bluffton, a charming little town that captures the essence of the Lowcountry, saw a heartwarming celebration as it kicked off the holiday season with its enchanting 2024 Christmas Parade. This annual festivity not only brings twinkling lights and festive cheer but also showcases the very heart of the community through the selection of judges who have made their mark in various ways. This year, residents had the chance to nominate judges who are passionate about Bluffton, and the results were heartening!
Spotlight on the Judges
The Town of Bluffton proudly revealed its three judges for this year’s parade: Allen Cramer, Hazel A. Rickenbaker, and Kathy Straughn. Each of these community heroes was chosen for their significant contributions and love for the town. A spokesperson from the town shared, “The Town of Bluffton is proud to announce the judges for the 2024 parade.”
Meet Allen Cramer: A Lifelong Blufftonite
First up is Allen Cramer, whose roots run deep in Bluffton. Growing up on Palmetto Bluff Road and graduating from Hilton Head High School, Allen brings with him nearly three decades of service with the Bluffton Township Fire District. But his dedication doesn’t stop there! He is also a mentor to fellow firefighters and volunteers with his wife, Courtney Hampson, at Bluffton Self Help. Together, they are making a tremendous difference while raising their son, Ryan, who’s making waves in the tech world in Dallas. “Allen’s connection to Bluffton’s traditions runs deep,” noted the spokesperson. “He fondly remembers marching in the Christmas Parade as a member of the Crusaders football team.” Today, he’s a guide for Outside Brands, sharing his passion for the great outdoors!
Hazel Rickenbaker: A Champion for the Community
Next in line is Hazel A. Rickenbaker. A retired school guidance counselor and social worker, she is the embodiment of community spirit. With a lifetime devoted to helping others, Hazel’s initiatives are commendable. She played a vital role in establishing a mentoring program for young men, which included a lively 30-member Boys Choir! As an active member of Campbell Chapel A.M.E. Church and Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., Hazel believes in uplifting others. She’s even been involved with Young Lives, a program that supports teen parents. “Hazel’s passion for Bluffton extends to its history, arts, and traditions,” said the town’s representative. “She truly embodies the essence of giving, as reflected in her favorite quote by Muhammad Ali, ‘Service to others is the rent you pay for your room here on earth.’”
Kathy Straughn: Filling Hearts & Minds
Last but definitely not least is Kathy Straughn, who moved to Bluffton in 2015 and has been tackling food insecurity head-on! Married to her high school sweetheart for an impressive 54 years, Kathy launched the Blessing Box Project Bluffton this past June. What started as a simple idea has blossomed into a network of food donation boxes across Bluffton and Hardeeville, designed to help those in need. The heartfelt messages she’s received remind her of why she started this initiative. “No child should ever go to bed hungry,” she regularly shares, highlighting her commitment to feeding the community. The spokesperson noted, “Kathy’s guiding principles reflect her deep commitment to helping others.”
Community at Its Best
This year’s parade wasn’t just a dazzling showcase of holiday floats; it was a celebration of community spirit, with the Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony and several festive activities fostering connections among the residents. As the town spokesperson put it, “The Christmas Tree Lighting and the annual parade are among the best times of the year. Coming together as a community to celebrate the holiday season is truly a special experience.”
The Christmas Parade marked the beginning of a joyful holiday season, each float shining bright just like the spirit of each participant and every citizen of Bluffton!
