Ross Smith named as Christmas Parade Marshall

The Orange Jaycees have announced Ross Smith will serve as the Orange Parade Marshall for their annual Christmas parade.

Smith is well known for his many accomplishments and contributions in the community.

He is a Little Cypress-Mauriceville High School graduate before attending Lamar University and The University of Texas in Houston. He has owned Akrotex, Inc. since starting it in 1990. He is also the owner/partner with David Self Ford.

Smith is also a current board member for: Orange Savings Bank, the Lutcher Theater, the Lamar Orange Foundation, the Southeast Texas Foundation and the Salvation Army.

Over the years, Smith has received many awards. His awards include the 2000 Community Builder Award from the Madison Lodge 126 AF and AM and the Masonic Grand Lodge of Texas, as well as the 2004 Small Business Person of the Year from the GOACC. He is a former board member of the GOACC, Boys and Girls Club and the Boy Scouts of America -Three Rivers Council.

Smith also makes monetary contributions to Orange Christian Services, the Salvation Army, the Red Cross and Southeast Texas Hospice. He also donates money to support area schools with project graduation or simply assisting an employee in need.

The 65th annual parade is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Dec. 13. This year, the theme is “A Patriotic Christmas.” Entrants in the parade are encouraged to bring a new unwrapped toy for local, needy children.

The parade chairman is Niki Monceaux. Anyone wanting information can call 409-221-0801 or e-mail [email protected]. Since the parade is held at night, entries are encouraged to have many lights. Entry forms will be available at Triangle Bolt on E. Roundbunch Road, R&R Auto Supply on MacArthur Drive, Artcraft Printing on Western Avenue and at the Orange Chamber of Commerce located at 10th and Green.

The Jaycees will sponsor the only Santa Claus.

First and Second place trophies will be awarded in four categories: Marching, General, Commercial, and Religious Theme. Bands will receive a participation trophy.