Our location in Tolland, Connecticut, recently participated in their community’s annual Festival of Lights Parade. The event occurs each year just after Thanksgiving to welcome in the holiday season. It is presented by the Tolland Fire Department and serves to raise donations for the Tolland Food Pantry.
The parade consisted of 20 entries. There were fire trucks, dump trucks, pickup trucks, ATV’s and even a semi-tractor trailer truck. First Student had the only school bus in the parade. Their theme was Rudolf and the Island of Misfit Toys.
Location Manager Terri Scheidel shared, “The bus was decked out as were our team and their family members who participated. Team members from our neighboring location in Vernon joined us which provided a wonderful representation of First Student’s commitment to our local community.”
“It was a fun night. We walked the parade route next to our ‘reindeer’ greeting everyone and passing out candy,” shared Terri. “Our announcement at the parade, went like this:
Rudolf and the Island of Misfit Toys presented by Tolland — First Student. We are proud to provide safe and caring transportation to all the unique and wonderful children of Tolland. We wish you all a Merry Christmas and a very happy and healthy New Year!”
The team was presented with the award for Best Holiday Spirit by the parade committee. A fitting tribute to the joint Tolland and Vernon team’s enthusiasm.