The Lucerne Valley Chamber of Commerce has announced the theme of this year's 4th of July Parade.
"It's 'God Bless America'!" said longtime event chair Jean Magee.
And in a unique twist, perennial parade announcers Gary and Linda Schlenz also will serve as parade grand marshals. The couple will ride in the parade, waving to the crowd, and then assume their broadcasting positions near the Chamber of Commerce office when they get there, Magee said.
Gary Schlenz is pastor of Crossroads Chapel. Linda Schlenz is a longtime teacher at Lucerne Valley High School.
Parade line up will be 7:30 a.m with parade judging at 8. The parade begins at 9. Parade participants should meet at Highway 18 and Trade Post Road. Equestrian groups will line up on the north side of Trade Post Road. All other entries line up on the south side of Trade Post.
Following the parade, several activities will occur at Pioneer Park. They include the Ringing of the bell by Honorary Mayor Lyle Thomas at 11 a.m. followed by the Invocation, Presentation of Colors, Pledge of Allegiance, Singing of Patriotic Song and the Presentation of Parade Awards.
Parade sponsors are Mitsubishi Cement, Specialty Minerals and APEX. Parade entry fees are Youth and Non-Profit Organizations, $10; Adults and Businesses, $15. For directions or more information, call the Lucerne Valley Chamber of Commerce at 760-248-7215.
"God Bless America" by Irving Berlin
God Bless America,
Land that I love.
Stand beside her, and guide her
Through the night with a light from above.
From the mountains, to the prairies,
To the oceans, white with foam
God Bless America,
My home sweet home.