We both were sad in 2005 when the Fourth of July parade was canceled. We learned no one would take on the responsibility. Mary Scoggins suggested that I lead in planning a 2006 parade, and I did it.

I want to thank everyone who helped make this event a reality. It took a lot of people working together.

Automobile dealers were wonderful. I requested red, white or blue cars. Did you see them? Many thanks to Bill, Troy, Mike and Scott.

My neighbors helped out. Sherrie drove her blue Mustang. Tom, Jim, Helen, Bob and Ken helped keep the parade on the prescribed path. At the last moment, Bart Reuter, the Bart O'Connors, Marissa Santiago and Bill Blake came through as drivers and judges.

Many thanks to Senator Blake, Mayor Pro Tem Hillier and the village council members; Charlie Bronk and the Sandhills chapter of the Antique Automobile Club of America; Retired Marine Color Guard; all military entries; Clete; friends with convertibles and grandchildren; those persons who decorated and entered golf carts; last-minute entries Laura and children; private and civic organizations; and the bands, singers and dancers.

Special thanks to the village of Pinehurst staff, including the police and fire departments; the hospital; the banks for extra funds.

Thank you, George Bonville and family, Janeen, Gwendy, Kathryn, the Kings, Emily, Carol and Jean for the animal parade. Thanks, adorable clown, and Michael Florence of WEEB, who pulled things together.

Finally, thanks to Pinehurst Business Guild for allowing me to organize the parade, and to Pinehurst residents for coming out to celebrate the Fourth of July!

Helen Neill

Pinehurst