Glenwood Drive stages July 4 parade

The good neighbors of Glenwood Drive are to gather at 10:30 a.m. today at the west end of the shady street for the second annual Independence Day Parade.

If last year's parade is any indication, this year should be a corker.

"It's not a formal event," said organizer Tracy Clark. "Our only theme is love of our country."

Last year's parade lasted about 20 minutes.

"We passed out flyers up and down the street and we had about 50 people. We can't wait to see what happens this year," Clark said.

The parade route is about three-quarters of a mile. It ends at Riverview Drive and participants have the option of disbanding, or going back the way they came.

"Last year, one gentleman brought his decorated lawnmower and another couple just carried a giant American flag," Clark said.

She got the idea for the Glenwood parade from a similar event her family attended in Pleasant Valley in Washoe County.

"It was so charming and so sweet and got people talking to each other," Clark said.

Clark is hoping people from outside the neighborhood will stop by to participate, or as spectators.

"Last year, people just said thanks for bringing the neighborhood together," Clark said. "Maybe next year, we'll organize a really cool block party after the parade."

DETAILS

Carson Valley residents who want to celebrate July 4 close to home have a number of free activities from which to choose.

-- What's Independence Day without a parade?

For the second year, residents of Glenwood Drive in the Gardnerville Ranchos are hosting a parade on their street at 11 a.m. Participants will be lining up at 10:30 a.m. at the west end of the street. Anyone is invited to join in the parade, or bring a lawn chair and be a spectator.

Information, Tracy Clark, 265-5131.

-- Carson Valley Christian is hosting the July 4 Freedom Festival from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. at the church, 1095 Stephanie Way, Minden. Food, drinks, games, bounce house, toddler game area, face painting, mini-train rides and entertainment by Arthur Hervey will be offered.

-- Residents are asked to bring canned or boxed food item to help needy families.

Information, 267-0151.

-- Carson Valley Pops Orchestra is performing "Tribute to the Red, White, & Blue," at 1 p.m. at Heritage Park in Gardnerville.

Beverages will be available for purchase. The concert is presented by the Town of Gardnerville.

Information, 267-5575.

-- The Town of Genoa and the Genoa Volunteer Fire Department will host a July 4 chicken barbecue in conjunction with Pops in the Park from noon until sold-out.

Dinner will be served at the Genoa Volunteer Fire Department across from Mormon Station Historic State Park. Cost is $10 per person. Beverages are extra.

-- The 24th annual Pops in the Park, produced by the Sierra Philharmonic League and featuring the Reno Philharmonic Orchestra is to perform at 4:30 p.m. at Mormon Station State Historic Park in Genoa. This year's traditional Independence Day concert has been expanded to include the Gairin Celtic Singers and The Saline Fiddlers from Saline, Mich. Information, visit salinefiddlers.com. Festivities begin at 1 p.m., orchestra begins at 4:30 p.m. Bring a blanket, folding chair and picnic basket to relax and enjoy music in a park setting. A silent auction rounds out the afternoon. This event is hosted by Nevada State Parks and the Sierra Philharmonic League.

Information, www.pops-in-the-park.com or call Gene Moranville, 265-6748.