Honorary grand marshal of Edison Parade is named
Planners of the Edison Festival of Light has announced today that local resident, Donny Overholser has been named as the honorary grand marshal for the Grand Parade of Light on February 21 in Fort Myers.
Nominations were received by those in the community wanting to recognize the “unsung heroes” of the area. Online voting provided a “People’s Choice” selection opportunity and the winning nominee was named at the Edison Music Fest this past weekend.
“We were thrilled with the community participation in nominating so many deserving candidates and placing their votes for this grand honor,” board member and project chairman, Angela Brandt said.
Overholser’s commitment to the youth of this community is unparalleled and includes serving as president of Fort Myers American Little League for more than 25 years. He was instrumental in starting girls’ softball and serving approximately 35,000 young people in the league since 1971. He was also involved in Pop Warner where he coached and served on the board for 20 years, half of that time as president.
Approximately 12,500 football and flag football players and cheerleaders were served through his involvement. Since 1984, he has volunteered at Bishop Verot High School where he has been president of the Sports Booster Club since 1988. Although he has never had children of his own, his decades of volunteerism for the betterment of area youth are a true indication of his desire to help others, Brandt said.
Three other nominees received recognition for their community support Mary Miller, Israel Suarez and the Halgrim Family.
The Grand Parade of Light is a two-hour extravaganza featuring national and local marching bands, unique floats and giant balloons, local government and law enforcement officials and more. The parade, which has gained recognition as the largest night parade in the south east, brings the entire community out in celebration of the life and achievements of winter resident, Thomas Edison. This event is free to the public and will take place on February 21 beginning in downtown Fort Myers at 7 p.m.
To learn more about the Edison Festival of Light, log onto www.edisonfestival.org or call 334-2999.