| Updated: 7/04/2012 5:42 pm |
Published: 7/04/2012 4:28 pm
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Food, family and fireworks but the Fourth of July is about so much more.
It’s about celebrating our country, our patriotism and the American spirit. FOX23 found one neighborhood in Sapulpa where folks on Mesa Road mark Independence Day in a very special way.
They begin the day with a prayer.
"Lord of Heaven we come to you as a people, as an American people and this is our land that you've given us."
Then it’s time to line up for the parade to celebrate America’s birthday.
Norman Hoelting served in the Air Force during the Korean War and acted as the Grand Marshal for Wednesday’s parade. He says activities like these teach young children about patriotism and what it means to be free.
"It means they are learning a little bit at a time and they will remember it and will grow up seeing that if the country changes they must change, but we still have to work to hold our country free,” says Hoelting.
Even the animals get into the American spirit. A pony adorned in red, white and blue and a dog proudly sporting a Fourth of July scarf join the parade route.
Neighbor Robert Yocham served four years in the Air Force and although he’s 80 years old, he never misses an American celebration.
"Well, I just feel proud and I want them to have the same feeling that I feel proud, and I think this parade helps instill in them to be proud to be an American,” says Yocham.
Following the parade, neighbors gather for a cookout to feast and celebrate their freedom.
"This is what we should be doing. We are celebrating our country and instilling it in the youth and remembering it for the older people. This is what it's all about,” says Marine Corps vet, Craig Hoelting.
A Fourth of July reminder: If you plan to pop fireworks in your neighborhood, you’ll need a permit in Jenks, Broken Arrow, Bixby, Claremore and Sand Springs. Tulsa and Owasso do not allow fireworks to be set off in the city limits.
