Organizers say plans are coming together as they prepare for theannual Brookhaven Christmas Parade, scheduled for Thursday, Dec. 4,in downtown.

This year’s theme is “Remembrances,” said Rita Rich, paradechairwoman. She said the theme lends itself well to religiousaspects of the holiday, family times, and the excitement ofChristmas morning memories.

“Remembrances is anything you want to remember about Christmas,”Rich said. “It’s generic enough to apply to all sectors.”

Chad Simmons will be this year’s parade grand marshal, Richsaid. The Brookhaven native and rising country music recording staris currently living outside Nashville.

“He hopes to have another major record label signing around thefirst of the year,” Rich said.

Rich, who was his principal in elementary school, recalledSimmons as a good student. She said he is a good role model and hasa bright future ahead.

“Right now, he’s where he should be as far as his career goals,”Rich said.

Another piece of the parade puzzle will be decided Tuesday whenMiss Merry Christmas is chosen during the annual contest at thechamber of commerce. The contest is at 6:30 p.m.

“We’ve had a lot of interest,” Rich said

Chamber officials said 10 participants have turned inapplications. Participants include Vivian Celeste Lang, KristinaLynne Barnes, Marlee Blair Price, Cherish Nicole Britt, NatalieDitcharo, Hannah Mere’ Estess, Jacositi Korielle Banks, SidneyNicole Rials, LeWaire Harvey and Sarah Elizabeth Lofton.

Miss Merry Christmas will represent the chamber at open housesand other holiday events in November and December.

Other dignitaries being lined up for the parade include MissMississippi Allison Kellogg, Brookhaven’s Miss Hospitality TraciHaag, and local and area officials. Rich said area marching bandshave been invited to be in the parade, but officials are awaitingconfirmation that they can come.

Rich was also hopeful that people will decorate floats for theparade.

“We want to really encourage people to do floats,” Rich said.”It’s more interesting if you have floats and bands.”