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The planning of a small-town parade is in the works to celebrate this July 4 and the 250th anniversary of the United States here in Corsicana. Families are invited to participate with decorated bicycles, tricycles, wagons, young ones in strollers and well-mannered dogs on a leash. Grandparents, friends and neighbors are invited to watch and wave from the sidewalks on Beaton Street.
The four block parade, starting at 10 a.m. Saturday, July 4 at the Beaton Market Place Park (Third Avenue and Beaton Streets), will roll down Corsicana’s famous Downtown to Sixth, then gather at the Pocket Park for an all-American hot dog lunch provided by one of Texas’ oldest soda fountain restaurants, Across the Street Diner.
Each parade participant will receive a copy of the Declaration of Independence and Constitution, ribbon, red, white and blue necklace and an American flag. The first annual Stars, Stripes and Small Wheels Parade is presented by Riverfront Capital Strategies, with support from CTWP Copy Center, the city of Corsicana’s Parks & Recreation Department, Corsicana Main Street, Across the Street Diner and Corsicana Artist & Writer Residency.
Jim Pannell, Managing Principal of Riverfront Capital Strategies and Precinct 1 City Councilman shared his reason for creating the parade, saying “America has always been at its best when communities rally around common ideals and shared experiences. We need moments that remind us that, despite our differences, we are part of something larger than ourselves. Traditions like Independence Day parades help anchor us in the national fabric. They remind us of our heritage of freedom, the sacrifices that secured it, and the responsibility we have to preserve it.”
In the interest of safety and keeping the event focused on children and families, no motorized vehicles or scooters will be permitted, and dog owners will be responsible for their pet’s hydration and clean up.
Corsicana Mayor Joe Hill will be in attendance and play a historic role. He said, “The Fourth of July is a time to come together as a community and celebrate the freedoms and values that unite us. As we honor our young patriots and mark the 250th anniversary of our nation, we invite residents and visitors alike to join us for a parade that celebrates America’s heritage and the pride we share in calling Corsicana home. We’re especially excited to see the creativity and patriotic spirit of our youngest participants as they showcase their decorated bikes and wagons along the parade route.”
Local churches are encouraged to announce the start of the parade by ringing church bells promptly at 10 a.m.
The parade committee is seeking volunteers for the event from 8 a.m. to Noon. To volunteer or receive more information, contact Susan Wilson at susan.wilson@susanwilsonmarketing.com, call 480-824-3015 or 817-617-4409.