Yesterday was the annual Sauganash Fourth of July Parade. As I’ve observed before, in my neighborhood “parade” is a verb rather than a noun. I won’t show you as many photos as I usually do—just a few.
More people march in the Sauganash Parade than watch it. I’d estimate there were between 300 and 500 of my neighbors participating yesterday: children and adults of every age, multiple races and ethnic groups, and just about every size and shape of human being.
There was quite a variety of vehicles, too: automobiles both classic and modern, some decorated and some simply taking part; trucks of many varieties (though no semis this year); police cars, fire engines, golf carts, wagons, and baby carriages.
Several local politicians marched as well. Above is State Representative Mike Kelly’s contingent. I thought the balloons made for an especially colorful display.
When my wife and I moved into this neighborhood 40 years ago, our local grocery store, Happy Foods participated. Yesterday the new owner took part—I counted five Happy Foods vehicles. No camels or tigers, however. I presume the new owner decided one owner being kicked by a camel was enough.
There are bigger parades and more spectacular parades. I’m not sure there are many better ones, because this one is less a performance than a community activity.
