By Debbie TAYLOR

There was excitement in the air as a cool breeze swept across the playground on April 30 at Holy Redeemer School in Montrose as kids and parents attended the 14th Annual Parade of Nations. Countries represented included Portugal, Austria, Poland, Kenya, India, Greece, Lebanon, Cuba and Italy. Students in grades kindergarten through eighth participated in this much awaited program started by Principal Susan Fite.
Sixth grade teacher Susanne Keogh’s felt the students learned much from the fun event.
“They experience learning about different nations, cultures and traditions,” Keogh said. Her class had been studying ancient civilizations of Greece and presented traditions of the nation.

Sophia Pappas’ heritage is Greek, but she and her fellow fourth graders presented the country of Kenya. She eagerly tried everything that the Parade of Nations had to offer.
“I loved the eating, it was fun to try all the different foods,” Sophia said. When asked what was her favorite food, she quickly answered, “The Baklava.” However, the Kenya class was proud of what they served: leopard on a stick. Sophia, however, was quick to clarify that it was “really chicken.”
Fourth grade student Kylie McCreao particularly enjoyed the performing arts. “I loved all the dances,” Kylie said. “It was fun to see all the different ones from all over the world.” Both students said that
the parade opened their eyes as to what the rest of the world offered. “It would be cool, after studying it, to visit [Kenya],” said Sophia. Kenya has never been presented in the 14-year history of the program.
In addition to food, students also decorated booths that dotted the playground. Parent Nigel Burns was on hand, helping in a booth. He said that the Parade of Nations event takes about three months to prepare. However, to him it was all worth the effort.
“The kids’ jolly brings us jolly,” he said of the enjoyment shared.