Fourth of July Festivities
Anthony, Texas citizens gathered this weekend to enjoy two of the most important events of the year for the town—the Independence
Day parade and fireworks display. The Town of Anthony hosted an Independence Day parade which started at 9:30 am at the local Sonic and
ended at Enrique Miramontes Memorial Park. "After seventeen years of having these, everything just sort of falls into place. We got all
the rough stuff ironed out in the first few years," stated Mayor Art Franco.
Individuals gathered around their floats, preparing for the celebration amidst a feeling of patriotism from participants and observers, alike. Families from Anthony and surrounding cities and towns made themselves comfortable by setting up alongside the parade route. Folding chairs, umbrellas, and American flags seemed to be the staple accessories. Float participants provided spectators with handfuls of candy and joyful greetings.
More than 25 organizations participated in the parade, some of which included the Town of Anthony, Texas; City of Anthony, New Mexico;
Police Departments from Anthony, Clint, Sunland Park, and Vinton; Fire Departments from Chamberino, Chaparral, La Union, Santa Teresa and
West Valley. Also in the parade were the Wildcat Cheerleaders, the Veterans of Foreign Wars- Post 4384, the Strikers baseball team, Folklorico
Cuauhtli, and various car clubs.
Later in the evening, the fireworks display at the local water park and the Ernie Rascon Memorial Field provided a vibrant closing to the festivities. Onlookers from near and far gathered to watch the illumination of the night sky, enjoying the mountains as a serene and majestic backdrop. The thrilling sights and sounds provided for an opportunity of reflection and appreciation for the birth of this great nation.
