John Carten, one of today’s organizers says, “Let’s get the banner across the street and get ready to go.” Carten says they have been doing the 4th of July picnic since 1972. “We originally started the 4th of July picnic to celebrate a rebuild of the playground by the County. I have been helping with the celebration since 1984.”
Lynne Ross, who marches with her husband Doug says, “It’s harder to fold this thing up than to unfurl it, and looks like I miserably failed again last year.” Ross says she can’t remember how many years she has been at this end of the celebration. “I graduated from doing the pavilion but I love a parade.”
Larry Pilot says after many years his wife Lynne hasn’t joined them this year. “She broke her back and is in a wheelchair today.”
Kimberly Schmidt, an organizer of activities at the park says, “In celebration of our 100th year, we will be kicking off an initiative to Plant 100 Trees for 100 Years of Lyon Village to increase our tree canopy for the next 100 years! There will be a table at the picnic with a map of all the best locations for new trees in the neighborhood so people can sign up.”
“Come on Charlie, smile for the camera.” Olivia Ferrill tries to coax her Cavachon while they are waiting for the annual Lyon Village Fourth of July parade to begin in the neighborhood. “I’ve been doing this for a couple of years because it’s fun.” Olivia says her mother is at the other end in the park where she will be handing out popsicles.