Use this search box to find articles that have run in our newspapers over the last several years.
| EAST LONGMEADOW As previously announced a new organization that will be in this year's July 4 Parade is the Polish Cavalry Squadron. The squadron consists of five members on horseback wearing the foreign uniforms of the last cavalry of the world, the Polish Cavalry of 1939. The group is made up of American citizens of different nationalities representing their ancestors. On their uniforms, instead of medals and ribbons, they wear miniature flags from the countries of ancestors who came to America many decades ago to help build this country. Many gave their lives for our fight for independence. In addition there are currently about 56 group/organizations scheduled to march in the parade, and 13 floats. The floats that are scheduled are the Springfield Lodge of Elks, Landmark Realty, All American Gymnastics/Incredible Inflatables, Coldwell Banker Realty, Pioneer Valley Gymnastics, the East Longmeadow Lions Club, the Springfield St. Patrick's Committee, the Chicopee St. Patrick's Committee, American Saw Manufacturing, Miss East Longmeadow, O'Driscoll's Pub, and Bodyworks Unlimited. House Decorating Contest Have you been planning your display for the year's House Decorating Contest? Thanks to the Ninety-Nine Restaurant, the contest is back again this year. Any residence on the parade route is eligible. Keep in mind this year's theme: "Let Freedom Ring." The theme reflects on the role bells have played in history. Since times long before this country was conceived, bells have been a source of warning, as well as a source of announcing great and joyous events. They have called citizens to arms for their defense and signaled the laying down of arms when the conflict has ended and peace has been restored. Home decorators may use any items that support the theme. Only private property may be decorated. Any display of flags should be in a proper and respectful manner. Disrespect toward the flag will cause automatic disqualification. Remember, more is not necessarily better. So, show your spirit and join the fun! Past winners were all happy they did. Judging will take place July 2 by 2 p.m. Decision of the judges will be final. Prizes: first place, a $75 gift certificate to the 99 Restaurant & Pub; first runner-up, $50 gift certificate to the 99 Restaurant & Pub; second runner-up, $25 gift certificate to the 99 Restaurant & Pub. Information on the proper ways to display the American Flag can be found at flagsource.com/about.htm.Winners will be announced on July 4 during the parade from the Center Reviewing Stand. Veterans and volunteers sought The July 4 Parade Committee is looking for veterans from all wars both World Wars, The Korean War, Vietnam, Desert Storm, Desert Shield, Afghanistan, and Iraq. They would like to recognize these men and women for their service to the nation. The Committee also is looking for people to work in the positions of banner carrier and parade marshal. Children can be banner carriers. They should be at least middle school age and can receive community service time. Parade marshals help the Committee form up and run the parade July 4. Marshals are required to attend a meeting on the parade a couple of days prior to the parade. During the meeting they will be notified as to where and who they will be working with and the current parade line up. Anyone who is interested in either being a banner carrier, parade marshal, or who is a veteran and wants to be part of the parade, should contact Carl Ohlin at 525-2952. This Program is supported in part by a grant from the East Longmeadow Cultural Council a local agency, which is supported by the Massachusetts Cultural Council, a state agency. |