Thousands turn out for Osceola Mills parade
Thursday, July 05, 2012
By Terry Whetstone Staff Writer
OSCEOLA MILLS - The Columbia Fire Co. held another very successful Fourth of July parade yesterday with dozens of entries and thousands of people watching.
Russell Bush, parade chairman, said, "It was a great turn out by everyone, those watching and those participating, and we really appreciate the support."
The parade saw between 2,000 and 3,000 people line the streets to view the fire apparatus, bands, twirling groups and floats make their way through the streets of the small community.
The event, which lasted more than two hours, saw people putting chairs up in anticipation of it two days in advance.
As is usually the case the majority of floats play tribute to Independence Day, with some featuring the Statue of Liberty, some having Francis Scott Key or the Declaration of Independence.
Trophies were awarded to the first and second place for emergency medical services and fire apparatus and each marching band and drum corps received $250 to march along with cash for first and second place.
The parade winners include best baton corps: first, Morris Cooperettes, $50; second, Daisies ($25); best variety band: first, Clearfield Oriental Band, $75; best Junior/Senior High School Band: first, Moshannon Valley High School Band, $75; best senior drum corps: first, Keystone Regiment, $75; best floats: first, Aristocats, $50, second, Osceola Community, Francis Scott Key, $25; best engine, 2007-2012: first, Boalsburg Fire Co.; best engine, 1998-2006: first, Bald Eagle Fire Co.; second, Lewistown Fire Co.; best engine, 1991-1997: first, Mountain Top Fire Co. of Sandy Ridge; second, Hope Fire Co. of Philipsburg; best engine, 1990 and older: first, Hope Fire Co. of Philipsburg; best aerial: Alpha Fire Co. of State College; best rescue: first, Hookies Fire Co. of Tyrone; second, Lawrence Township Station No. 5; best squad/utility/quick response service unit: first, Hyde Fire Co.; second, Morris Township Fire Co., Morrisdale; best tanker: first, Neptune Fire Co. of Tyrone; second, Winburne Fire Co.; best brush: first, Clearfield Fire Dept.; second, Milesburg Fire Co.; best piece: first, Boalsburg Fire Co.; best overall appearing unit, Jack Hosband Memorial Award: Mountain Top Fire Co. Ambulance Service, Sandy Ridge; best overall equipped unit - Fire Chief's Award: Hyde Fire Co. Aerial; and parade chairman's choice, Paul Barnett Memorial Award: Lewistown Fire Co.
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