Adrian celebrates Independence Day
By MICHELE BURRIS
Lawn chairs, pickups, blankets and people of all ages lined Main Street in Adrian last Saturday in anticipation of the Adrian Optimist Club 4th of July Parade. Forty-five entries paraded down Main Street and kids collected candy, popsicles and various other goodies.
Pat Oates was honored as this year’s Grand Marshal. He is a 1948 Adrian High School graduate. Two years later he married his wife of 60 years, Mary. Pat was drafted into the United States Army in 1952. He served his tour in the 95th Tank Company in Ft. Richards, Alaska until 1953. In 1967, Pat purchased the Adrian Locker, which he owned and operated with his wife Mary until 2000. Pat and Mary recently celebrated their 60th Wedding Anniversary. They are proud of their four children, 13 grandchildren, and 11 great-grandchildren.
Following the parade, the Adrian Optimist Building was packed full of hungry people ready to eat famous pork chops. During lunch, music could be heard throughout the building. Adrian does in fact have talent as Ray and Paul Burhart, Sarah Jacobs and Tarissa Keating shared their musical talent with the crowd.
In the afternoon, kids were busy, busy, busy. Water inflatables were a huge hit with the kids, who stood in line over and over again to play in the water. The Adrian Fire Department provided sprinklers for kids to play in throughout the day. The addition of a rock climbing wall quickly became a kid favorite. Kids participated in races, balloon tosses, and other games. While the kids played, adults played bingo, listened to music and relaxed.
This Adrian tradition is for the community, and the community came out in full force again this year. In the spirit of celebrating America’s independence, the Adrian Optimist Club prides itself in bringing everyone together year after year.
Right: Optimist Member Pat Oates was honored as this year’s 4th of July Parade Grand Marshal. Presenting Pat with a plaque during the parade is State Representative and Adrian Optimist Member Barney Fisher.
Middle: The Adrian Optimist Club hosts this annual celebration. Present and future members take a ride in the parade.
Far right: Larry Cumpton Family Farms, Adrian, MO rides in the parade.