What a spectacular Independence Day! If you were out at the annual 4th of July parade this past weekend, you couldn't possibly miss the Rotary Club's vehicle. We didn't just march—we brought the party and the patriotism. A massive round of applause goes to Jennifer Shumway, who coordinated our club’s participation this year. Thanks to her incredible powers of persuasion, Jennifer managed to orchestrate a parade entry that people will be talking about until next July.

A Heavy-Duty Rolling Stage

Jennifer’s first stroke of genius was convincing her friend, Lyndon Sidelinger, to bring out his massive, eye-catching military vehicle to serve as our official Rotary float. But a truck that big needs a sound to match, right? Enter Jennifer’s next recruits: her husband, Jud Shumway, and the incredibly talented Sawgrass Blues Band.

Stationed safely on the back of Lyndon’s truck, the band belted out a high-energy set of patriotic tunes mixed with their signature blues. The crowd absolutely loved it! From the first note to the last, spectators along the route were dancing, cheering, and singing along to the ultimate holiday soundtrack.

Sweet Treats and Presidential Decrees

While the band kept the energy high from the truck, our ground crew was working hard to keep the crowd happy. Jennifer Shumway, Dave Burr, Sherry Levy, and Felicia Voloschin walked the hot parade route, flashing big smiles, banging the boom sticks, and handing out candy to excited kids (and quite a few adults!).

Club President Dave Burr flexed his presidential powers to decree Lyndon an honorary member of the club for the month of July! Maybe Jennifer can convince him to attend a Friday morning meeting.

A Huge Thank You! To everyone who drove, played, walked, and cheered: You truly embodied "Service Above Self" (with a side of rock and roll).