STUART—Santa Claus isn’t the only celebrity set to appear at the Stuart Christmas Parade. Accomplished business leader Joe Catrambone—who’s served as president and CEO of the Stuart Martin County Chamber of Commerce for more than 30 years—will be honored as the Grand Marshal of the parade celebrating its 64th anniversary in operation. “When considering several candidates well deserving of recognition as the Grand Marshal of the Stuart Christmas Parade, Joe Catrambone definitely stood out for his distinguished history of leadership at the Stuart Martin County Chamber,” says Jennifer Crow, president and CEO of the Visiting Nurses Association of Florida, which is presenting the parade. “His legacy advocacy on behalf of the local business community is widely known and greatly appreciated and we’re grateful for the opportunity to honor his service.” The 64th Annual Stuart Christmas Parade—presented by the Visiting Nurse Association of Florida—will take place at 7 p.m. Dec. 5 along scenic East Ocean Boulevard. “I had no idea I was even being considered for Grand Marshal of the Stuart Christmas Parade but I was very pleasantly surprised when I received the call, and I’m truly grateful for the honor,” says Catrambone. “This is something I’ve never imagined doing, and that makes it all the more special. I appreciate the VNA for making this moment possible.” The theme of this year’s parade is “Celebrating 100 Years of Martin County.” The occasion carries special significance for VNA of Florida as well. The award-winning home-healthcare provider—which employs nearly a thousand, serves more than 20 counties and has performed millions of home visits—got its start in Stuart and will celebrate its 50th anniversary in operation next year. The rich history and unique characteristics of the county are sure to capture the imaginations of the parade participants and come alive in the creativity of their floats. As parades past attest, competition is intense for the most innovative float decorations and set designs. The award categories recognize large and small floats separately for best illumination and best music. There are also the Classic Christmas Award, Judge’s Choice Award, People’s Choice Award and best high school and middle school marching bands. The event attracts thousands of attendees and is by far the largest holiday event in the county. By teaming with the City of Stuart for logistical support, VNA of Florida’s role in putting on the parade is a natural extension of its longstanding commitment to the community. Having organized and sponsored several largescale community events, including launching the Stuart Air Show. For parade registration, sponsorship opportunities or to volunteer, please visit www.StuartChristmasParade.com or contact StuartChristmasParade@VNAflorida.org or call Aleisha Coleman at (772) 286-1844.. About Visiting Nurse Association of Florida: Founded 49 years ago, Visiting Nurse Association of Florida is a Medicare-certified home health and private care services agency that provides award-winning health care for patients in the comfort of their own homes, including post-surgical care, Alzheimer’s monitoring, post-hospital care, physical therapy, and much more. The company also owns and manages three assisted living communities—Grand Oaks of Palm City, Grand Oaks of Jensen Beach and Grand Oaks of Okeechobee, which are distinguished for providing superior healthcare, luxurious amenities and Alzheimer’s memory care.
