More than 150 children along with their parents, grandparents, friends, and other community members came together to celebrate the 246th birthday of our great nation’s Independence at the 6th annual 4th of July Kids Parade and festivities.
Jami Jensen and Tristen Sheridan teamed up this year along with a plethora of generous volunteers and sponsors to make this the most spectacular one yet. There were inflatables and pools with water slides for all ages, free snow cones, a barrel train ride and a barbeque with hamburger and hot dogs along with kiddie pools full of free soda and water for all those in attendance.
Registration began promptly at 9 am with the parade to begin at 10, though before the parade began, the Color Guard from Holly and Lamar presented the American flag for a community Pledge of Allegiance. With the flashing lights and siren sounding from the Kiowa County Fire Protection District’s large fire engine, the children riding their bikes, scooters, strollers, and other mobile apparatuses were lead down Maine Steet and putting on a wonderful display of patriotism for those who lined the street to watch. The end of the parade was yet another KCFPD fire rescue vehicle as well as Kiowa County Fair Royalty on horseback.
The most patriotic children were awarded with the title of Mr. And Mrs. 4th of July, this year Bravyon Kraft and Gaige Entenmen were both named Mr. 4th of July with Bridget Bogenhagen being named the 2022 Mrs. 4th of July.
A double elimination corn hole tournament was held on the court house lawn. 14 team signed up to play though ultimately it was Eads locals Russ Watson teamed up with Bryce Batterton going head-to-head against the Lamar natives Jesse and David Bradley in the championship showdown where Jesse and David winning the tournament 2 games to 1 to win a cash prize.
Throughout the entire event, names were drawn and announced from Trent Rittgers DJ booth for prizes for all the children who attended the event from gracious sponsors.
We are fortunate to live in a county where American Pride runs through the veins of the community and everyone of all backgrounds can come together to ensure that an event like the Kid’s 4th of July Parade happens each year.
Happy Birthday America.
