This year’s July 4 Kiddie Parade brought more participants than ever before. More than 300 children, youth and adults, dressed in patriotic colors, walking or riding decorated bikes, wagons, scooters and strollers, enjoyed all the waves and photos from onlookers along the route.
The parade was led by Uncle Sam (Gary Rocchi) and Betsy Ross (Ruth Erickson), followed by 32 members of the “Summer Band Music Camp” marching to their patriotic band music.
Bringing up the end of the parade were 10 dancers from “Getze Gala.”
Mayor Ray Friend greeted everyone at the end of the parade at Marguerite Maze School and thanked all the parade volunteers and participants, after leading everyone in the Pledge of Allegiance. All the participants waived the American flags they had been given at the start of the parade, donated by Hollister’s Ace Hardware.
Off the Chain Bike Shop gave out safety tip coloring books, and the San Benito County Free Library’s Bookmobile gave tours and signed up kids and their parents for library cards.
All the participants were treated to cookies from McDonald’s and cool punch to moisten parched throats.
At dusk, the Fourth of July Celebration Committee completed the birth of the country celebration with the very popular, annual fireworks show, sponsored by 12 nonprofit groups that have fireworks stands.
