July 4 parade taps Jack London theme

Both the author and SCC celebrate centennials this year|

The Sonoma Community Center has announced the theme for this year’s big Fourth of July Parade: Jack London – Our Sailor on Horseback.

Executive director Toni Castrone says the decision was a natural: “This year the Center and Jack London shared Centennials,” she said. “And who better to carry the flag for these two great events than our community’s favorite son, Jack London. A man who knew how to live life to the fullest.”

Castrone continued, “In addition to being one of America’s great authors, Jack was an animal lover, an avid sailor, an early ecologist, a strong advocate for women, a great photographer, a journalist, a scientific farmer, a self-made man and a political activist. As far as themes go, there’s something here for everyone!”

“Mostly though,” she added, “he loved this place we so proudly call home and forever branded it – the Valley of the Moon.”

The Center has prepared guidelines for anyone wishing to enter the parade this year, which are very similar to years past. They are available at the Center’s website sonomacommunitycenter.org.

Everyone is welcome to join in as long as they adhere to the theme and some common sense rules: private individuals and groups such as families, clubs (except car clubs – which fall into a special category), animals, musical groups, youth groups, etc. can enter the parade for free.

However, a donation of at least $150 is greatly appreciated to help the Center cover the costs of insurance, security and cleanup.

Un-themed entries will be charged $150 and won’t be eligible for judging.

Local businesses are welcome to participate in the parade for a small donation of $150, however, their participation must incorporate the theme of the parade, i.e. Jack London Centennial, otherwise they will be considered as advertising entries.

Local businesses participating in the parade but whose entries do not adhere to the theme will be considered as advertising entries and must pay $350.

Political entries, as always, are allowed and will pay a fee of $150, but, especially in this particular election year, their messaging must be positive… “Vote for Joe” is OK; “Joe Sucks” is not OK, say parade officials.

Steve Kyle, board president for the Center, reminds participants that the parade is a family affair and is strictly rated “G.” “There aren’t many rules,” says Kyle “but the few we have are as plain as the stripes on the flag and are going to be enforced.”

No alcohol, no smoking, no banners, costumes or language that even come close to offending even the youngest spectator, says Kyle.

“Pretty straightforward,” Kyle says.

For ideas on theming, visit the Sonoma Public Library, visit the museum and/or talk to a docent at Jack London State Historic Park, or visit sonomacommunitycenter.org.

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