''A Patriotic Christmas'' Holiday Parade

The Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce will present "A Patriotic Christmas: Supporting Our Troops" Holiday Parade, underwritten by Profile Bank. Entries are now being accepted and those entering a float are encouraged to decorate their entry keeping in line with the theme.

In support of the parade theme, the Chamber will conduct a collection during the holiday season, for donations of items that are needed and unavailable to those serving overseas. All donations can be dropped off at the Chamber office, located at 18 South Main Street in Rochester, beginning October 1st and running through the day of the parade, December 8th. All donations can be dropped off at the Chamber office between the hours of 9:00am and 5:00pm. Donations will also be accepted at both the Holiday Tree Lighting and Holiday Parade. The following is a list of items requested for donation. Please be sure that all items are packaged individually and in single serving sizes. Items include drink mixes, Ramen noodles (packages, not bowls please), high protein Power Bars, trail mix, hot chocolate and oatmeal.

In addition to the collection, the Chamber is offering community members the opportunity to honor loved ones who are serving and away from home this holiday season. Ornaments containing the name of a service man or woman may be brought to the Holiday Tree Lighting on Friday, December 6th. Ornaments can be hung on the holiday tree at Central Square in downtown Rochester, which will be displayed throughout the holiday season. Those who are unable to attend the Holiday Tree Lighting event may drop off an ornament at any time to be hung on the Chamber's tree, which is displayed in the front window of the Chamber building. Ornaments can be dropped off at the Chamber office, located at 18 South Main Street in Rochester.