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Ansonia Independence Day Celebration…
The parade
route was hot; the water “nice and cool”
By Bob Robinson
Spectators started lining up along Hwy 118 downtown around noon. The
community of Ansonia was getting ready for its annual Fourth of July
Parade.
There was some early activity at “The Legion” (American Legion) with
softball players warming up for the tournament, set to begin at 1 p.m.
Some of the vendors were open, waiting for the rush that would take
place after the parade.
The “Dunk Tank” was already busy… the girl in the chair (and in the
water) was dunked several times over a period of about 10 minutes. It
seems several young men enjoyed the opportunity to dunk the young lady.
12:15… the street was filling up rapidly. Most spectators found shade,
although some of the more courageous took advantage of a completely
unobstructed view in the sunlight.
Climbing temperatures were tempered by a slight breeze.
A young Mom was having trouble getting her daughters – ages two and
three – to pose for a photo. With the help of – and a bribe from –
Daddy, she finally got it accomplished.
About 20 minutes to one, the first flashing lights were visible on the
other side of the railroad tracks. The parade had begun.
Soon spectators left their seats and stood up… the American Legion
Honor Guard – and the flag of the United States of America – was
passing by… as the Guard passed, spectators broke into applause.
A few minutes later there was a pause… and a 21-gun salute from the
Guard.
The remainder of the parade consisted of local celebrities, first
responders, community organizations and businesses, and lots of candy
for kids to pick up.
Following the parade, your CNO reporter headed back to “The Legion.” A
local couple offered a free bottle of water, noting that it was simply
a gift to the community on a hot day.
The water was cold and wet.
There was a message on the cap for anyone wishing to check it out. The
gift – and the message - was appreciated.
A line of cars was already building for spectators heading to pick up
their chicken dinners and people were starting to filter in for the
activities. The softball tournament was in full swing.
And the young lady was still sitting on her pedestal, waiting to be
“dunked” again.
“Have you been there this whole time? Don’t they have anyone to relieve
you?”
She wasn’t interested in being relieved of her volunteer activity.
“The water is nice and cool,” she said.
For more Ansonia Fourth of July parade photos, plus the activities at
the Legion, click here
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