Contact Me and I'll send you my article: "The Meeting Place: 29 Reasons to Visit Havre de Grace

INDEPENDENCE DAY CONTINUES TO THRILL

Thousands flocked to the sidewalks of Havre de Grace for the Independence Day Parade and Fireworks, scheduled for Sunday, July 4^th this year and ending the week long Carnival at Tydings Park as well. No complaints here for the weather held. Raining after the parade and before the fireworks. Someone obviously had a direct link to Mother Nature!

The parade lasted well over two hours with marching bands, military groups, twirlers, floats, big trucks and little trucks, antique cars and very big, noisy monster trucks, spiced with politicians, dancers, and lots of kids. Water guns squirted, children giggled, candy was tossed, lots of flags waved and folks clapped and cheered.

The pleasant breeze and overcast skies made a very warm day comfortable. It also looked as if most of the food vendors were local churches, Scout troops, and other non-profit organizations that kept prices reasonable. All in all a delightful day for celebrating our Nation’s Birthday and to say "thank you" to the many folks who give their lives in so many ways to protect our freedoms.

Later in the evening there was a free concert while families waited for the fireworks. About 9:30 p.m. the first bang was heard, and the skies were lit up for easily half an hour. Despite the damp weather and the overcast night sky, the fireworks were brilliant

Boats of all shapes and sizes safely enjoyed the view from the Susquehanna Flats. Families all over town watched from their yards, decks and porches. Personally, I enjoy the concert, the crowd, the noise and the excitement of being ‘right there’ at the City Yacht Basin.

For me I realize the value of family as I watch hundreds of them sharing the day’s enthusiasm. It’s also a day to thank those who keep us safe and sound whether in the military, through our Constitution and individual freedoms, or the many non-profit organizations and sponsors that help to make this day happen. And it’s a day to remember those who have died or given of themselves physically and emotionally for our continued independence.

I believe the Grand Marshals this year were the AmeriCorp young people – a fitting tribute to a fine group that has helped our communities for several years. But this year was extra special for more than 300 arrived to help us rebuild our Promenade. And on this day, hundreds of locals and visitors stood on the first completed section at the Gazebo end of the Promenade to watch the fireworks.

This day is a reminder that ‘community’ still works. It’s a reminder of shared values and pride. May freedom continue to ring for all!

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