Sparta and the county celebrate Fourth of July with annual parade

By Liam Donovan
SPARTA — Flags were flying, bands sounding, vehicles rolling, people smiling, children cheering and the weather splendidly shining down this past Sunday on Sparta’s Independence Day Parade.
Police cars, fire trucks and ambulances came rolling through East Shore Trail, lights flashing and horns blaring to the delight of spectators, as the parade kicked off around 10 a.m. Sparta Mayor Gil Gibbs was out in front greeting residents and visitors, as was Sparta Councilman Jerry Murphy, in patriotic attire.
The Sparta Elks marched and rolled by. The Elks sponsor the annual event. The organization chose retired Police chief Ernie Reigstad as this year’s grand marshal.
Police officers, firefighters and EMTS marched proudly past, as did veterans groups, school bands and representatives of other civic and recreational organizations. The Sparta Hisorical Society regaled onlookers with a fleet of antique automobiles and the agricultiural community was present with a string of tractors. Even Batman, in the Batmobile, made an appearance.
“Who wants candy?” cried a Sparta EMT officer, who was handing out lollipops and gum to gleeful children.
“We’re happy to be here supporting the Sparta parade as a small business in America,” said Geoff Doubleday, who was driving the Newton Theatre car in the parade.
Jake Schultz, in the car with Doubleday, added, “In the greatest country in the world.”
“This is a great chance to show the people of Sparta our rescue van,” said Cassie Prisco of O.S.C.A.R. or One Step Closer Animal Rescue.
“This is by far one of our favorite events,” said Jennifer Hamilton, an attorney and Sparta resident. “It’s a show of pride for Sussex County.”
Hamilton is running as a Democrat for the state Senate seat from the 24th District, which is currently held by state Sen. Steve Oroho, who will be opposing Hamilton in November’s election.
Hamilton marched with the Sparta Municipal Democratic Society, as did Sparta resident Kate Matteson and Gina Trish. Matteson and Trish are running for state Assembly from the 24th District and will oppose Republican incumbent Assemblyman Parker Space and newcomer Harold Wirhs in November.
The local Republican Party was also well represented at the parade.
“It was our first time so we were super excited about it, and it did not disappoint,” Pamela Gonoud said.
“I’ve been attending the parade for twelve years… We enjoy it. They do a great job,” Amy Englert said.