Story posted Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Variety Of '4th' Events Scheduled
Independence Day promises to be an event to remember in Des Plaines as plans materialize for the parade, ice cream social, and fireworks---events scheduled for Saturday, July 4 and united by the theme, "America's Famous Firsts."
Special Events Commissioner and July 4th Event Coordinator Carol Shannon is spearheading Independence Day activities, along with commissioner Tom Christiansen. They are being assisted by fellow members of the Special Events Commission, under the direction of chairman Linda Forman. This group sponsors the Taste of Des Plaines and other community events throughout the year.
"We are anticipating over one hundred units in the parade which will step off at 10 a.m., Saturday, July 4 from the Oakton Street and Center Street area and proceed north up to the History Center, 781 Pearson St.," Shannon said.
According to Shannon, this year's parade marshal will be the "Chamber of Commerce & Industry" celebrating its 75th anniversary.
The traditional Des Plaines Historical Society's Ice Cream Social will be held on the grounds of the Fisher-Wright House, 815 Center St. This year marks the 24th Ice Cream Social. As in the past, the public will be invited to stop by immediately following the parade to cool off in the shade and enjoy ice cream and root beer floats.
At 4 p.m. the grounds at Oakton Community College, 1600 E. Golf Rd., will be available for picnicking and face painting. The fireworks, provided by Mad Bomber, will get underway after 9 p.m. The Des Plaines Historical Society will sell corn and other vendors, "Tasty Vending" and "Here's the scoop" will sell hot dogs and nachos, funnel cakes, snow cones, ice cream and root beer floats.
Shannon reminds residents that they may contribute money to Independence Day activities by rounding out their water bill payments to the city. Residents are invited to round off their water bill payment to the $5 or $10 mark. Mail your payment or drop it off at city hall, 1420 Miner St., Des Plaines, IL 60016.
Speak Out!
Comments are edited first by Journal staff before running in print and appearing online.