Southtown Independence Day Celebration ParadeThe very first Southtown Independence Day Celebration Parade came off without a hitch although it was dreadfully hot! Beginning at Pener Plaza (formerly Metro Plaza), more than 40 parade entries lined up to travel west to Rockhill Rd. Boy Scout Troop #300 Color Guard led off the parade with Uncle Sam (Southtown President Matt Heinrich), followed by Grand Marshall (and KC Councilwoman) Jan Marcason and other elected officials. Entries included Rev. Emmanuel Cleaver, Honorary Waldo Mayor Jerry Singer, the Gateway Highsteppers and Missouri Steppers, the Mustang Club, area neighborhood associations, animal clubs, bicyclists, candidates, and more! The streets along the route were lined with American flags.
Young and old people from throughout the metropolitan area came out to participate in the parade. We showed off our patriotism, celebrated diversity, and crossed over the invisible, perceived barrier of Troost Avenue twice!
Thanks are extended to the following sponsors that made the parade a success: The City of Kansas City Neighborhood Tourism Development Fund, Rockhurst University, UMKC, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Olsson Associates, and Jim Harrington. A special thanks to Jennifer Gamble and The Main Event for planning and coordinating the parade, along with Moonlight Sweeping for the clean-up and the Southtown Program Committee volunteers.