IronwoodInfo News Magazine

Wakefield Celebrates the Fourth.....
in a Big, Big Way!

Wakefield - July 4, 2009

The residents of Wakefield turned out for the Grand Finale of the Wakefield Fourth of July Celebration. The parade theme this year was "Freedom Isn't Free". A theme used on the many floats in the parade. This was once again a big event produced by small community. .

The parade formed at the High School. The marchers would then follow a route up Brotherton and down Sunday Lake Street. The main parade began on time immediately upon the completion of the Wakefield Children's Parade. The parade spectators had lined the route early in the day in anticipation of the earlier parade.

This parade was complete in every way. There were three bands, Bessemer H.S. Band, Ironwood H.S. Band and Marty's Goldenaires. The Wakefield Marenisco High School was well represented by the Cardinal Cheer Leaders.

The Klasic Kruisers sent over many classic cars including Tom Laabs Smokin' Cuda and Sharon Laabs Hot Satelitte. All the cars in the parade were worthy of applause including Jerry Rouse's great Mopar.

The local fire departments were well represented too. Trucks from Bessemer, Bessemer Township and Marenisco Township joined the Wakefield Volunteers in the parade. Wakefield's entry was driven by Retired Fire Chief Ted Finco. Chief Yon was having a very busy day running the Children's Parade.

The Fourth of July brings with it many family as well as school reunions. This year was no exception. Turning out in force was the class of '59 as was the Class of '49.

There were some great floats which can be seen in our slide show and photo gallery.

The local VFW and American Legion Post Color Guard carried the National Colors in the forefront of the parade. The color guard was led by John "Chummy" Ozzello. The same servicemen provided the Honor Guard at Friday's Concert in the park. .

Scouts from Troop 334 also provided a Color Guard under the leadership of Scout Master Bruce Jendrusina. All day and night Friday, the scouts manned several gamming booths at the Wakefield Picnic. Raising money forscouting and the Cole Foundation.

Following the Wakefield Parade the scouts would be off to Bessemer to march and fundraise again

The Fourth of July festivities in Wakefield were very enjoyable and demonstrated how a small community can do things in a big, big way.

Image Slideshow

Photo Gallery

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