Mayor Darrell E. Banks issued a reminder that this year’s Liberty Day Festival in Bellville will be on July 4 with a parade beginning at 11 a.m. Spectators line Main Street, Bell Street, and Church Street to view the parade.
The parade begins at the American Legion at 11 a.m. and marches south on Main Street to Stoodt’s Super Value before turning west and then north on Bell Street, east on Church St. to Bellville’s bandstand.
Those wishing to participate and are not already signed up should contact Spanky Van Houten at 419-565- 2314. Participates will meet at the corner of Bell and Ogle Street at 10 a.m. and check in with Liberty Day Staff upstairs at the American Legion.
A short ceremony celebrating the country’s liberty will take place at the bandstand following the parade. Master of Ceremonies Ed “Spanky” Van Houten will conduct the ceremony starting with the Clear Fork Band playing the National Anthem. A grand marshal will be introduced and recognized during the event.
Parade awards will be given in the following categories: Best Color Guard, Best Marching Group, Best Antique Vehicle, Best Club or Organization, Grand Marshall Award and the Judges Choice. The awards are sponsored by the American Legion Post 535, Tall Timber Inn, Mid-Ohio Trophy, Butler Box Company, American Legion Sons of the Legion Squadron 535, and Mayor Banks.
American Legion Hiskey Post 535 will honor departed veterans with a firing squad salute and taps.