By COLE REIF
Great Bend Post
The City of Great Bend went to a new process in 2022 in determining who
would serve as the grand marshal for the Home for the Holidays Festival and
Parade in November.
Accepting online forms until March 31, the public nominated deserving
candidates to lead the holiday parade.
The theme for this year's festival and parade downtown is "150 Years of Celebrations," playing off the city celebrating its 150th anniversary.
Great Bend Community Coordinator Christina Hayes said recently retired city
attorney Bob Suelter has been named the grand marshal for this year’s parade.
"There were eight candidates nominated, and the grand marshal that won is very fitting for the city's celebration," said Hayes. "Suelter won 41-percent of the votes of the eight nominated."
Suelter worked for the City of Great Bend for 42 years as city attorney.
Shortly after his retirement last November, the municipal courtroom was named
after Suelter.
Suelter will help lead the annual holiday parade the Saturday after
Thanksgiving. The festival downtown typically includes carriage rides, the
mayor’s tree lighting, food and other entertainment.