HAMILTON — Despite the late start, the crowd lost none of its fervor as U.S. Army veterans, local politicians and roller skaters paraded West on High Street during the city’s annual Fourth of July parade.
“We’ve probably missed three (parades) in the last 50 years or so,” said spectator Shirley Wade, 85. “This year’s was great.”
Wade said she was thankful the weather was cool and dry for those marching. Her favorite sight was the float from First Baptist Church, where she is a member.
“Our own church had a float, although I love anything with the veterans,” she said.
Those participating in the parade also loved the enthusiasm of the crowd.
“Seeing all the support of the community was great,” said Angela Goldschmidt, 25. She said she is new to the Hamilton area. Goldschmidt was marching with members of St. Ann Catholic Church to celebrate the church’s 100th anniversary.
“This is huge,” said Greg Goldschmidt, 24. “The turnout was great on the street.”
The parade was also an opportunity for people to share their culture.
The Miami Valley Re-enactors had an American Indian-themed float “to promote local history, and promote the blending of cultures,” said Bill Combs, 62. Combs, known by his American Indian ame “Bill Bear,” has been re-enacting American Indian life for 10 years.
Benjamin Mitchell, 19, a U.S. Army soldier, has been both participant and spectator.
“I’ve always been in the parade,” he said. “I used to march for Badin (High School). It’s a different perspective watching from the sidelines. I thought it was pretty good.”
The highlight of the parade was watching his little brother march, Mitchell said.
Mitchell said he must return to training in Fort Campbell, Ky. on Monday.
“The sooner I go back, the sooner I’m allowed to come back (home),” he said.
Upcoming free events
The Hamilton Parks and Recreation Division presents “Where There’s Music in the Air, 2009,” a series of summer concerts at various parks within the city. All are free and open to the public. Just bring blankets and lawn chairs.
7 p.m. July 7: Franz Klaber band, Wilks Green (German Village)
7 p.m. July 14: Lisa Biales and Co., Monument Park (by Fitton Center)
7 p.m. July 21: Jack Carr Band, Virginia Avenue Park
2 p.m. July 25: Fort Hamilton Jazz Band, Butler Co. Court House gazebo
7 p.m. July 25: “Romeo and Juliet”, “Shakespeare in the Park,” Veteran’s Park (formerly Hillcrest)
7 p.m. July 28: After Hour Band, Lindenwald’s Minor Avenue park
7 p.m. Aug. 4: Fort Hamilton Jazz band, Wayne Sutherland Park, Park and D streets
7 p.m. Aug. 11: Finale Jazz Band, Butler Co. Courthouse gazebo
