The 4th of July Parade is my favorite community event of the year; heat and humidity mixed with children laughing and neighbors greeting one another as bikes and wagons decorated in red, white, and blue begin to fill the Peabody parking lot.
The last few years, the Cooper-Young Community Association has been fortunate enough to bring a few special people to the event. What used to be mingling and marching around the block has grown into face painters, MemPops, and live music at our annual parade in 2019. The Memphis firefighters and their big red fire truck are still the stars of the show. This is a time that CYCA can give back to our community and celebrate our freedom and independence. What better way to do it than with children leading the way?
The festivities kicked off with the Red, White & Blue Contest as kids dressed up their bike, wagons, and selves. First, 2nd, & 3rd prizes were awarded for the most creative. For the first time, Burkes Books awarded gift cards to the winners. Another first was the live band, the Museworthies, who played star-spangled hits for the crowd. Over 250 neighbors were in attendance.
If you have never attended the 4th of July parade, we hope that next year you will consider making us a part of your holiday tradition. CYCA relies on volunteers to help put on such great community events. Thanks to everyone who volunteered and came out to support us. And a big thanks to the Memphis Firefighters who come and support CYCA every year. — Suzanne Abedi
