While Santa annually concludes the Noblesville Christmas Parade, Mayor John Ditslear has announced who will be the leading this year’s festival – Jim Wafford.
“I was caught off guard,” said Wafford. “Overall, I was flattered and humbled. It was definitely unexpected.”
Wafford is the owner of three Noblesville businesses: Logan Street Signs & Banners, Noblesville Trophies and The Wafford Theater.
“Jim always has a genuine desire to help others in the community,” Ditslear said. “So many times, if a need arises in Noblesville, he is one of the first to step forward to help.”
Through the years, Wafford has been a supporter of many nonprofit organizations in Noblesville and is a member of the Sunrisers Kiwanis, Noblesville Chamber of Commerce and the Noblesville Fireworks Festival Committee. Wafford said his good-natured volunteering came from his father.
“He’s my mentor, I idolize him,” he said. “He was so involved with the church and use to haul us along with him to do stuff. I noticed it bought a lot of smiles to people. That’s the rewarding part. It makes people feel good for that moment.”
Wafford also has created a number of websites for the community including HamiltonCountyTV.com, which shows local sports and events as well as classic movies and TV shows.
“When the mayor called me, I told him I was busy that weekend, I’m taping that parade and I couldn’t be in two spots at one time,” said Wafford.
Wafford is a common sight at the Fourth of July and holiday parades, either in line driving a company vehicle or behind the camera recording the event.
“I’m always working,” he said. “We’ve been there every year since I’ve been here.”
Wafford is coming up with ideas on how HamiltonCountyTV.com will televise the parade, including potentially using live footage from the “Grand Cam” with his point of view of the event.
The Christmas parade will begin at 2 p.m. Nov. 30. This year’s theme is “The Joys of the Season.” To request a parade entry form, contact Amy Ely at 770-2003 or [email protected].
