By 2007, the display grew to 110 trees.Art Yeaman, GCSMA President envisioned 150 trees for 2008 to honor of the Clay County's Sesquicentennial (150 years) and it happened - there were 150 trees. That year we received national recognition buy being featured in “Southern Living” magazine. In 2009 the GSCMA met with hard time due to internal strife.However, the positive community effort and energy of the Parade of Trees survived, largely due to the efforts of Mike, Pat, Dale, Art, Amy and Kelly Russell, former GCSMA secretary. Kelly took the lead that year, the Parade of Trees endured, despite the demise of the GCSMA.
A Quest for Foster Parents:The core group of civic minded people imagined a new group.The Greater Green Cove Civic Association, Inc. (GGCCA) was created in August 2010, just in time to present a seamless public appearance for the 7th Annual Parade of Trees.
Pat’s original concept had always been to secure annual “Foster Parents” -- Trees Are Up For Adoption.We anticipate that the concept will live for many, many years.People in and aroundGreen Cove Springs now know --- as the Christmas and holiday season approaches --- people see the lonely undress trees in Spring Park (3nd Sat. of November) -- they know it’s time - Trees-Are-Up-For-Adoption. It Takes A Village: In 2010, the GGCCA secured the organizational skills of Jenny Yeaman (a long time volunteer).The Parade of Trees tradition continues.Every year Mike, with the help of Art, and many volunteers, make certain the trees are repaired, installed and lit in a timely fashion. As they say, it "takes a village" and 2010 was no exception. The GGCCA is grateful to the City for its support.We appreciate the more than 40 volunteers that helped make the 2010 a great success.By the first Saturday in December, everything comes together, most often under sunshine and blue skies for a perfect day to fast forward us into the merry making of the season. Who could ask for more? 2011: Girl Scout Troop 608 will launch a new and exciting light and decoration program Follow us on Facebook: Parade of Trees, Green Cove Springs. *Johna Hayes lost his life in a tragic house fire, Aug. 2008
