GRINNELL, IA—The Grinnell Area Chamber of Commerce received many entries naming individuals to be considered to serve as the Fourth of July Grand Marshal. Sam Cox, owner of Saint’s Rest Coffee House, will serve as this year’s Grand Marshal for the Fourth of July parade.
“I feel grateful that fellow community members would consider me for this honour,” says Cox, owner of Saint’s since 2013. Nominees noted the welcoming atmosphere of the coffee shop as well as Sam’s caring and active role in the Grinnell community as notable reasons for consideration.
‘Through her coffee shop she raises money for many local causes, offers her space for both High School and College students’ activities and gives countless donations to the various causes that ask for help – she works tirelessly to make a living and give back to the community,” says one nomination. Another notes,“Sam has always been someone who tries to bring all walks of life together, regardless of her own opinions.” “She is a true community builder who runs a successful business that is frequented by Grinnellians of all walks of life.”
The Fourth of July parade will take place on Thursday, July 4 at 5:00 p.m. Those wishing to participate may still register by completing the entry form on the Chamber’s website or pick up a paper form at the Grinnell Area Chamber of Commerce office at 833 4th Avenue. The Chamber is also in search of volunteers to help organize line-up for the parade. If you are interested, please contact the Chamber office.
The parade will line up on High Street (those participating should enter from the north) where entries will be staged to line up on Hamilton Avenue facing west. The parade will begin at the intersection of Hamilton Avenue and Broad Street and turn north on Broad Street through downtown. Parade entries will turn east on 10th Avenue. At 10th Avenue, the parade heads east to Penrose Street, finally turning south on Penrose. It will disperse at the Bayer (formerly Monsanto) parking lot at 7th Avenue.
A fireworks display will take place at dusk on Thursday, July 4, at approximately 9:45 p.m. at Ahrens Park.
The following Friday, July 5, Friday Night Live will be held from 7-11pm. Friday Night Live will take place in Central Park with music by Whiplash. There is no cost to attend the event; food and beverages will be available for purchase.
Grinnell on the Fourth activities are produced by the Grinnell Area Chamber of Commerce and are sponsored by ASI Signage, Ahrens Park Foundation, Grinnell College, Hotel Grinnell and the City of Grinnell.
