Serving Gogebic, Iron and Ontonagon Counties
Serving Gogebic, Iron and Ontonagon Counties
By P.J. GLISSON
Bessemer — Despite the threat of thunderstorms, along with widespread, ongoing major road construction, Monday evening’s Fourth of July parade in Bessemer was well received by enthusiastic viewers.
The excitement started even before the actual parade with warm-up entertainment in the way of Marty’s Goldenaires marching up Sophie Street single-file, after which members of Klassic Kruisers drove down in a stream of classic cars.
Local law enforcement and Color Guard then led the parade, prompting viewers to stand up, remove caps, clap and cheer.
Several bands were present, including the Gogebic Range Band, whose members rode while playing in a float.
Dressed in Revolutionary War costumes, Wisconsin’s Janesville Fife & Drum Corps included members from young to old in its ranks.
Bands from A.D. Johnston Junior and Senior High School and from Luther L. Wright K-12 School in Ironwood marched down the street.
A.D. Johnston also featured members of the Class of ‘72 walking or riding the route while calling out high-energy greetings to the crowd.
Several colorful floats included one titled “A Salute to Old Glory” and a “Bee Kind” theme by the Wakefield-Bessemer Rotary Club, which had a large, glittery hive as the centerpiece of its display .
Smaller floats included the Bessemer Little League, Bessemer softball and others.
Jugglers, a stilt walker and a unicycler also delighted the crowd.
“Happy Fourth of July from the Shriners!” yelled one of the Ahmed Shriners, who are based in Marquette, Michigan, and who represent the Upper Peninsula. Several members were driving 4-wheelers.
Several tractor drivers of the Lake Superior Tired Iron Club included wives or girlfriends perched above the left-side wheel of about a dozen vintage machines.
Engines from the Bessemer and Wakefield volunteer fire departments also participated.
And, of course, candy throws were eagerly received by children, as well as by a few stealthy adults.
A 50/50 float was the basis for the reading of this year’s winning 50/50 number: 32400. No winner was yet announced for the $42,371 prize.
The parade ended with fire engines and a formal march by Marty’s Goldenaires.
After the parade, at Massie Field, kids tossed Frisbies or mini footballs and played wiffle ball until a much-enjoyed concert by Marty’s Goldenaires.
High-energy fireworks then filled the sky with colorful, creative explosions while the crowd roared with appreciation.
The Bessemer Volunteer Fire Department presented the fireworks with support from previous 50/50 funds.