The Eastwick Press Newspaper

Eastern Rensselaer County's Community Newspaper

It Rained On The Parade!

By

Good Turnout Despite The Rain

submitted by Jean Barber

Wet weather didn’t seem to dampen the spirit of the many participants and spectators that came out for the annual Berlin July 4th Parade. The Parade Committee appreciates the unwavering community support despite the weather. The only July 4th parade in Rensselaer County was led by Rensselaer County Under Sheriff, Patrick Russo, Rensselaer County Clerk, Frank Merola and by local American Legion Taconic Valley Post #937 with Color Guard. [private]

The Red Caps Marching Band came prepared with matching raincoats and managed to play some great toe-tapping patriotic music despite a steady rain. The band, based in Gloversville, performs about once a month. They evolved from the renowned New Baltimore Firehouse Band and are one of the premier professional marching bands in the region. (Alex Brooks photo)
The Red Caps Marching Band came prepared with matching raincoats and managed to play some great toe-tapping patriotic music despite a steady rain. The band, based in Gloversville, performs about once a month. They evolved from the renowned New Baltimore Firehouse Band and are one of the premier professional marching bands in the region. (Alex Brooks photo)

Grand Marshal, Arlie Greene, was driven by John Kellar in John’s 1950 Jeepster. Also featured were Grafton VFW Post #6340, Veterans of the Stephentown Area and local Boy Scout Troop #222. Rensselaer County Dairy Princess, Isabella Wiley, was driven by Tim Whitman in his 1974 Cadillac Eldorado. County Legislators, Lester Goodermote and Stan Brownell, local and neighboring fire companies, community organizations, antique and classic vehicles, trucks, farm equipment and equestrian groups, along with bands and numerous floats also joined the line-up. Bands included The Red Caps Marching Band, Berlin Central School Band and Hill Hollow Band.

The Color Guard Leads the Way. Alex Brooks photo.
The Color Guard Leads the Way. Alex Brooks photo.

Talk about determination, the Squeeze Play Accordion Band chose to ride on an open trailer, escorted by Don Paulson, even though the weather prevented them from playing their instruments.

Kent Goodermote drives his 1915 Model T, with Lilly Hewitt by his side, and his aunts Elizabeth Reynolds and Hilda Fryer in the back. Alex Brooks photo.
Kent Goodermote drives his 1915 Model T, with Lilly Hewitt by his side, and his aunts Elizabeth Reynolds and Hilda Fryer in the back. Alex Brooks photo.

Soggy volunteer clowns and helpers distributed American flags and bubbles to kids and “kids at heart” ahead of the parade. This year’s theme, “Tall Tales”, was well-represented as participants put together a wonderful variety of imaginative and creative entries. Congratulations and thanks to all of the parade participants!

The Parade Committee gives special thanks to those whose hard work and support helped to make the 2015 Parade a success: Bill Osterhout, Jr, Charlie Osterhout, Dean Maxon and Kent Goodermote for parade line-up; John Kellar, Tim Whitman and Don Paulson – parade escorts; Berlin Vol Fire Company for providing complimentary beverages for parade participants, traffic control assistance and use of their parking lot; Hill Hollow Band for continued entertainment following parade; community churches for use of their parking lots; Parade Committee “helpers”, Sally Smith, Cathy Russell, Elizabeth Michaels, Blaine Michaels and Ana Rizzo for distribution of flags and bubbles to spectators; Berlin Free Town Library for use of their facilities by the parade committee; Cyril Grant, Berlin School District Building & Grounds Superintendent; Rensselaer County Sheriff’s Department and Rensselaer County Auxiliary Police for traffic control. Special thanks to the parade judges who continue to be challenged each year with determining the prize winners.

Grand Marshal, Arlie Greene, driven by John Kellar in John’s 1950 Willys Jeepster; Photo by David Theriault.
Grand Marshal, Arlie Greene, driven by John Kellar in John’s 1950 Willys Jeepster; Photo by David Theriault.

The Committee appreciates the ongoing support of the numerous participants and spectators along with the many generous donations received. The parade would not be possible without you. Donations are accepted year-round and can be mailed to the Berlin July 4th Parade Committee, PO Box 66, Berlin, NY 12022. Should you have any questions, please call Jean, 658-3010 or Carol, 658-3936. We hope you enjoyed the 2015 Parade as much as we enjoyed bringing it to you! B-ParadePrized [/private]