By CAROLINE CARMICHAEL / Staff Writer

This just in — Santa Claus is coming once again to Jemison, and he’s using the Jemison Christmas parade on Dec. 2 for his ride into town.

Sponsored by the Jemison Lions Club, the Jemison Christmas parade is scheduled for 11 a.m. on Dec. 2, travelling on Highway 31 from the parking lot shared by Jemison middle and high schools to Jemison First Baptist Church.

Guests are encouraged to line the streets, “so you don’t miss any of the spectacle,” according to the city of Jemison website.

Santa will be available for photos in the City Hall foyer immediately following the parade. Parents are advised to bring a camera, as no photographer will be present for professional photos.

Cheryl English of the Jemison Lions Club said the “grand marshals” of the parade are this year’s Mr. and Mrs. Jemison — officially, Donna and Paul Robertson of NAPA Auto Parts.

“Jemison Scouts will lead off, and then have the Lions, the mayor, the city officials, the grand marshals and then everyone else will fall in,” English said.

A float contest, judged by Jemison Scout leaders, will compete in four categories: Best Christmas Spirit, Most Participation, Most Original and Best Theme.

English said a cotton candy vendor will be making rounds through the crowds, as an added perk to the parade.

For the families in Jemison who are in greater need during the holiday season, the Jemison Lions Club will have a pickup truck collecting $10 unwrapped toys. The first distribution will go to the Angel Tree in City Hall, the second will go to Jemison High School students, and any remaining toys will go to the Fraternal Order of Police for its Operation Santa Claus toy distribution to Clanton children and families in need.