Riverside Farms: men with hats and a vintage truck.
A photoessay by Helen Carter and Li Shen
The dynamic leadership and infectious enthusiasm of Charlie Buttrey (left) revitalized the 2025 parade, while Amy Stone Vance (right) ensured its continuity over the past few years.The Grand Marshall is the ceremonial leader of the parade.Speaking of hats….no sunburn here!Every hat tells a story: the iconic red hat of the Shriners is a symbol of brotherhood, philanthropy, and their commitment to helping children at Shriners Children' s Hospital.And some types of headgear mean safety first!Sergeant Karie Tucker monitors the start of the parade in Kinne’s field.Thetford 4-H Club fixes the harness for their pony’s cart — and their hair.No chickens were noticed in the parade, but just in case, there was a chicken jockey.A pumped-up pig … but no talk of inflation at the bank.A fanciful dragon …And a unicorn to round out the mythological menagerieBelgian draft horses and hay wagon, courtesy of Streeter Forest Farm.There were vehicles old and new, large and small. Here the Pompanoosuc Mills truck navigates the Rt 113-Rt 244 junction. The army loves a parade.So does the Game Warden.No parade is complete without a fire truck. Here is Thetford’s. In addition, Orford and West Fairlee generously sent fire trucks to the parade.Town Clerk Tracy Borst and family.A mix of selectboard and planning commission members threw candy along with the Recreation Coordinator. Town Manager Brian Story in Thetford’s newest truck, driven by Road Foreman Dale Lewis.ATVs made a strong showing.And there was an impressive line of tractors.Red Kite — small and bright ... and the donor of much parade candy!Smaller still …But if there were a prize for the smallest it would go to Sabil and Sons Towing and Recovery!It’s not a parade without a float and banners. Here’s the comfy float of the Thetford Elder network.The Parish Players celebrate their 60th year. Martie Betts holds the banner.Thetford Academy celebrates its star athletes.Caring Communities preschool bannerThe well-supported Apartheid Free Community banner — count the legs!Thetford Recycling approaching the Rt 244 bridge that was beautifully decked out with balloons.To top off the occasion, Charlie had asked if the DHART helicopter could make an appearance. Here they come!DHART meets Vermontosaurus.Curious kids were welcomed aboard the DHART.Community appreciation!
This is just a small fraction of all the photos. We apologize if a photo of your vehicle or organization was not included.
Photo credits: Helen Carter and Li Shen
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