Redlands Hearkens Back to the Good Old Days

The backdrop scene on Saturday, July 4 near Sylvan Park was a crystal blue sky punctuated by red, white and blue. The patriotic colors permeated the city as the Redlands Community 4th of July celebration began. Kicked off by the annual parade beginning at Franklin School and working its way around to Sylvan Park, the Redlands Kiwanis Club's 4th of July committee, the University of Redlands and the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians helped put on one of the largest Independence Day celebrations in the state. Redlanders and other visitors came out to honor "The Good Old Days," following this year's theme, with a parade theme of "Happy Birthday Uncle Sam," event leaders said. And looking around, it was easy to believe one was in The Good Old Days. Marching units, bands, floats, musical and equestrian groups and antique cars all brought visitors out of 2015 and into the past. Marching units dressed in traditional Revolutionary War garb, complete with muskets and flutes, paid tribute to the nation's founding fathers and those early Americans who risked their lives for Independence. Following the parade, visitors were invited to enjoy activities at Sylvan Park, where they enjoyed vendor booths, food and other goodies by several local service and civic clubs. Skydiving and a plane flyover were some of the highlights of this year's celebration. The celebration began its end with the grand finale beginning about 7 p.m. with a live show and opening ceremonies that included a flag ceremony and a US Air Force C-17 flyover. Skydivers landed in the stadium and live music performances by the Yardogs began at 8 p.m. One of the biggest fireworks shows held at the event to date kicked off at 9 p.m. to end the day under the direction of Jeff Martin, Pyro Spectaculars by Souza sales manager. The fireworks show also featured a 9-foot-by-12-foot jumbotron to make sure all had a good view of the fireworks. The 2015 winners are as follows: Color Guards: 1. America Legion Post 650 Drill Teams: 1. Twirl-er-etters 2. California Youth Spirit All Stars 3. VA Hospital Loma Linda Marching Units: 1. Zanja Fife & Drum 2. Redlands Elk Lodge #583 3. Cub Scout Pack 16 Floats: 1. Inland Empire Square Dancer 2. The Door Christian Church 3. Monday Night Church Family Antique single Car: 1. Eugene Chavez – 1938 Chevy 2. Kenneth Johnson – 1968 US Army truck 3. Herbie the Love Bug – 1963 VW Antique group Car: 1. Norton Air Force Museum 63rd/445th VA 2. Paradise Valley Model A Club Best Theme: California State Grange Novelty: Redlands Animal Shelter Sweepstake: Search and Rescue San Bernardino County