(Following is an update of the 2008 McCall Winter Carnival, to be held Jan. 25 to Feb. 3, 2008).

Long-time McCall physician Dr. Eddie Droge has been named grand marshal of the Mardi Gras Parade at the 43rd Annual McCall Winter Carnival.

Citizens were asked by the Winter Carnival Committee to nominate a community-oriented individual worthy of the grand marshal title. Nearly 80 percent of votes from all areas of Valley County pointed to Droge for the honor.

He has lived and worked in our community for many, years and has been a personal
physician to many citizens of McCall and Riggins, local, resident Mary Fisher said in her nomination.

"After having retired this past year I think it would be a wonderful way to pay tribute to such a dedicated individual," Fisher said.

Since 1968, Droge has served the people of McCall through his healing ability, while delivering several generations of McCall families.

His work at McCall Memorial Hospital, Payette Lakes Medical Clinic and the Salmon River Medical Clinic in Riggins has been recognized and appreciated by the residents in these areas.

"My career was always an ongoing positive experience," he said. I came from a small town so I was already accustomed to this lifestyle. I've never minded the growth, for me it's been easy to adapt. I've always enjoyed the people and all that this valley has to offer."

Droge's retired days are spent in McCall, where he still volunteers at the hospital assisting with administrative decisions.