30 seconds ago 2009-12-03T23:14:43-08:00
SACRAMENTO – Sacramento's mayor-elect is playing Santa Claus, saving the capital city's holiday parade even before he takes office next month.
Former NBA star Kevin Johnson is donating $20,000 from his privately funded inauguration to pay for the 26th annual Santa Parade. Johnson says there will be money left over because his ceremony will cost less than expected.
The parade became a casualty of the sinking economy, as traditional sponsors halted or greatly reduced their contributions. It would have been the first cancellation in the parade's history.
The parade, traditionally held the Saturday after Thanksgiving, has been rescheduled to Dec. 20.
___
