It rained on our parade
More than 70 entries to this year's July Fourth parade made the event one of the largest in recent memory. Despite an uncertain forecast Monday afternoon, entrants in the "Let Freedom Ring" parade packed the parking lot an hour before the 5 p.m. starting time.
By the time most had pulled onto the parade route a light but steady rain began falling and continued right up to the time the last of the horses turned the corner at Walnut and Second to head toward the park.
Crowds of parade-watchers lining the street were soaked, but remained in good spirits, clapping and waving at family and friends on floats, bikes, and golf carts.
Tammy Whiteside and Rose Thomason, who have been in charge of the parade for the past several years, said this was the largest they've seen.
"Seventy entries is a lot for a town our size," said Whiteside. "We were happy with the turnout."
Local businesses and individuals donated money for prizes. Categories were floats, cars, and kid entries.
Peabody Superswimmers won first place in the float competition, followed by the Herbert family reunion at second place, and Peabody Historical Society at third.
Children's entries competed for five prizes. Hunter Wilson took first, Lois Monares was second, Matt Jarell was third, Channel Burke placed fourth, and Brandon Woodruff was fifth.
The three prize-winning automobile entries were Sue Kangas of Peabody, first; Rodney Williams of Florence, second; and Albert Haviland of Wichita, third.
Whiteside and Thomason said not all the winners have picked up their prize money. Those who have not should contact Whiteside or Thomason as soon as possible.
