By Debbie Robinson

news@joplinglobe.com

The distribution of pretzels was a new twist this year as marching bands and glittering floats entertained the community members lined along Main Street during the hourlong annual Joplin Jaycees Christmas parade.

This year’s theme, “Have a Hearty Christmas and a Healthy New Year,” was chosen because St. John’s Regional Medical Center was the sponsor. Some of the entries tossed healthy snacks, pretzels and fruit wraps.

Children didn’t go away with sad faces though, because many of the parade participants threw the traditional candy as floats, twirling groups and marching bands passed by along the parade route from 20th Street to First Street.

Grand Marshal Debbie Linnes, president of St. John’s Regional Medical Center, rode in the parade.

Christine Smith, of Joplin, brought her two daughters, Lakeshia, 18, and Faith, 11, to watch the parade.

They have been watching the parade each year for about 10 years, she said.

For Faith, candy was the favorite.

Her sister said she enjoyed everything, including the bands and floats.

The three arrived about an hour before the parade made its way to the downtown area and placed blankets on the curb.

Others along the parade route sat in folding chairs. A blustery wind had many wearing knit hats and gloves.

Riley Hirshey, 11, of Carthage, watched the parade with his mother, Misty Hirshey.

Candy was also Riley’s favorite part, he said.

For his mother, floats always were a favorite, she said, even though they aren’t as elaborate as in years past.