July 4 parade committee needs donations, helpers
Most people haven't thought about their July Fourth plans, but Carol Stream's Fourth of July Parade Committee has been doing so for several months.
Not only does it take nearly a year to book entertainment and tend to details for our much loved village tradition, but there is the matter of fundraising to cover expenses. And with 2009 marking Carol Stream's 50th anniversary, the committee has lots to do to ensure this year's parade is extra special.
"Carol Stream Celebrates the Fourth of July - 50 Years of the American Dream" will step off at 10 a.m. July 4 from Lies and County Farm roads and head east to the Ross Ferraro Town Center at Lies and Gary Avenue.
A great lineup including many attractions from last year's parade will entertain the crowd. The Jesse White Tumblers, Honey Bear Dancers, Jimmy's Bavarians, Funny Little People, the South Shore Drill Team, stilt-walkers and the Glenbard North High School marching band are just a sampling of this year's entertainment.
Of course, entertainment doesn't come cheap so the committee has planned fundraisers to offset some of the expenses.
"We hope the community continues to support us so we can make our parade bigger and better," parade Chairwoman Kim Gieser said.
A fundraiser is scheduled at Rocco Vino's Ristorante & Pizzeria, 904 Army Trail Road, Carol Stream during regular business hours on Tuesday, March 24. The parade committee will be distributing fliers to present when ordering your meal. Fundraiser fliers also are available online at carolstreamparade.com.
Also, Culver's Restaurant, 290 S. Schmale Road, is donating a portion of the entire day's sales on Wednesday, April 29. No fliers are needed.
"Lunch, dinner, custard - it all counts," Gieser said.
Other fundraising efforts in the works include a Jewel Shop & Share Day on a date to be announced. Additionally, you'll be able to donate when paying your spring water bill. Information for this fundraiser will be included with your bill.
The committee welcomes volunteers, too.
"We're always looking for volunteers, especially for the day of the event," Gieser said.
Volunteers will assist with crowd control, lineup and other duties to help the parade run smoothly.
Applications to participate in this year's event will be available within the next few months at the village hall, 500 N. Gary Ave., and online at carolstreamparade.com.
By the way, the Fourth of July is only four months away.
• Jenny Casale writes about Carol Stream. Contact her at (630) 890-6142 or takemetours@hotmail.com.