FeedsParade organizers ‘praying’ for fair skies
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File photoShari Peters really wants fair skies July 4.
That’s because she is expecting about 30,000 guests for the annual Fourth of July parade sponsored by the Northville Community Foundation, and she would rather it didn’t rain on them, or on the floats, bands, clowns, pets and crepe-paper adored bikes that annually attract one of the largest parade audiences in the area.
Peters, executive director of the Northville Community Foundation, and her group of volunteers are in the final hectic planning of the parade lineup and all the organization and details necessary to ensure success. Peters is even seeking both divine and professional intervention to ensure nice weather for the event.
“We’re going to call Chuck Gaidica, and the good Lord. Probably the good Lord first,” Peters said.
Crowds for the popular regional parade attract residents from throughout the area, including Canton, Plymouth and Novi. She said that everyone is welcome for the patriotic celebration, but spectators should plan on getting to parade grounds early to head off any potential parking gridlock
“We usually have upwards of 30,000 people. On just Center Street alone they’re usually 20 deep. People should plan on being there for at least an hour and a half, and they should plan on getting there early. The earlier the better. The great thing about is that it’s not that far and you get to see a great parade.”
The parade begins with a patriotic tribute by local songbirds the Sweet Adelines, followed by traditional tunes by the Plymouth Fife and Drum Corps. The parade is scheduled to cut a winding path from Griswold to Cady Street, before ending at Northville Downs, with local dentist and activist Dr. William Demray officiating, along with WNIC personality Lisa Barry.
Along the way Peters said that crowd goers could expect some parade favorites, including an appearance by the Clowns of America, Spiderman and an antique tractor brigade.
Peters said that one of her favorite events, the children’s bike parade, would continue this year, with local youngsters riding for a chance to score some new wheels from Meijer.
“Children from any area line up at Sheldon and Seven Mile at 9:30 a.m.,” Peters said. “The boy and girl with the best decorated bike win a new bike from Meijer’s. Any age can enter, although usually people are between the ages of 5 and 10. Any younger than 5 is hard. It’s a pretty long way.
“We also have our comfy creatures pet parade, and anyone who has a pet- dog, cat, parrot or goldfish can enter. And last year we did have a boy, dragging a wagon with his goldfish bowl in it. He was maybe 6 or 7, and I think he won crowd pleaser. It’s a lot of fun.”
Still, with the July 4th date looming, Peters said day-of volunteers were still badly needed and any time commitment residents could offer would be greatly appreciated.
“We desperately need help the day of the parade,” Peters said. “Everyone who calls the office thinks that someone else is doing the parade. We ask that people not assume that someone else is taking care of it. We need you.”
To volunteer or for information, phone (248) 374-0200.
