Friends and relatives from as far away as Pickering, Dunnville, Beeton, Bracebridge, Keswick and Richmond Hill descended on Couchiching Point Sunday to help Orillia's Beth McCall celebrate her 90th birthday.
The grand finale was a fire truck from Station #1 and a birthday serenade from the firefighters.
Neighbours lined Broadview Avenue from end to end to watch the parade of more than 30 vehicles full of well wishers and to make lots of noise for the birthday girl.
The parade was organized by McCall's daughters, Liz Ross and Mary Jo Robertson. They sent an email to a handful of friends and neighbours and the number of people – parade participants and spectators - just snowballed.
McCall is a long-time resident of Couchiching Point. She is a dear friend and neighbour to many and an active volunteer with St. Paul’s Centre, Soldiers' Memorial Hospital and the Mariposa Grandmothers to name a few.
McCall has three children, six grandchildren and two great grandchildren.
"Beth was totally surprised and so happy to see all the well-wishers," said Liz Ross. "Later, she said it was the best party ever, quipping 'I didn’t have to make a speech.'"
McCall's birthday is Wednesday, but the parade was held Sunday so that more people could be there.
