Editor, Gazette-Journal:

"Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus." These well-known words, penned in 1897 by Francis Pharcellus Church in his New York Sun’s newspaper editorial responding to eight-year-old Virginia O’Hanlon questioning if there really was a Santa, are certainly relevant in our area this week. Not only did Santa come to the magnificent Gloucester Christmas parade last Saturday, but he has agreed to be the grand marshal, accompanied by his elves, in the equally wonderful Mathews parade this Saturday.

The Parade Committees for both towns can only set the stage and make the parades happen. It takes the entire community working together to not only create and ride in the floats, but also to cheer on the participants and make the day a truly magical time for young and old alike.

It has been a pleasure to be on the Mathews Christmas Parade Committee this year and witness the enthusiasm and community spirit shown by our residents. Let’s keep ...