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By Lauren Johnson

Celebrating American pride this Independence Day, many people came to enjoy the annual Meeksville Fourth of July Parade. Whether coming out again for a tradition kept throughout the years or coming out to experience it for the first time, everyone was thrilled to see the horses, motorcycles, vintage cars, fire trucks and more drive by.

Some have supported this parade ever since it started with only about 10 people and now, according to one viewer, it has grown exponentially with thousands of people who come out to celebrate.

“I’ve come every year since I was 15 and have always loved it,” said Dresden Henderson. In the past, Henderson would paint the American flag on her white horse and ride it in the parade each year. Although she wasn’t able to participate in the parade this year, she plans to paint her horse again and saddle up to ride in next year’s parade.

Jena Smith and Day Barnes made their fifth consecutive appearance in the parade riding a decked-out golf cart decorated with red, white, and blue American themed decorations. “We love coming to this parade because this is a slice of America and it’s always really fun,” said Barnes.

Her husband, David Barnes, was also riding in the parade on his bike for his fifth year in a row. “I just love this parade and being able to celebrate the birth of America. This is America at its best,” he said.

Sharone Scott, who has been the manager of Scotty’s Grocery and Deli in Meeksville, Alabama, for four years, grew up in the area and was able to watch the parade from the store.

Scott and her family love the Meeksville Fourth of July parade and that the route goes right in front of the store. She also encourages people to come out to enjoy lunch at their deli or shop on the convenience side of the store.

Anne Sandoval traveled from Florida to come for her first time with her daughter Tawnia Sandoval who is from the area. They were both excited and Anne said, “The support of all the people here is wonderful!”

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