Pleasanton Stars & Stripes event celebrates Independence Day

Pleasanton's Stars and Stripes celebration ended with a fireworks display over Stegge Lake.

Photo essay by Billy Roudybush, special to the Journal

Pleasanton’s celebrated their annual Stars and Stripes Day. It was a day of fun. The parade kicked off with the National Anthem by Taylor Robinson. Then the festivities began.

People showed pride by donning their colors. Stars and stripes down to his socks, "Uncle Sam" led the parade.

The Pleasanton Fire Department and Linn County Rural Fire Department pumpers and tenders roll down Main Street in the parade.

Princess Liberty candidate Charlianna, above, and Prince Freedom candidate Coltin, below, had entries in the parade. Prince and princess candidates, and their families, helped sell tickets that will help fund next year's celebration.

The Pleasanton Ministerial Alliance float promoted "Twists and Turns" Vacation Bible School, which will be held every Wednesday evening in July from 5:30 to 8 p.m. with dinners served to both adults and kids. Visit the Alliance's Facebook page for more information.

There were also several entries that conveyed the many interests of the community.

Labette Bank's float "Liberty Luau" blended a Hawaiian theme with the red, white and blue.

The parade featured everything from candidates for city council, to stock cars (including a nod to the late firefighter Josh Haynes), announcer Don Epps keeping excitement pumping through the crowd, motorcycles, a lone horse rider, and a float honoring veterans and Jesus.

Fire trucks pumping spray into the air on the street south of the community center was an instant hit for the kids, and some adults. Firefighter Renea Marshall watches over the scene as the city's pumper kept everyone cool.

Foam My Party took over where the fire departments left off, showering kids with foam.

Kirstin Buck, Kartman Highley and Zach Ross were judges for the salsa contest. On a 2-to-1 vote a tomato-based salsa by Lisa Goodall won over the corn salsa. The apple pie contest was won by Austin Bruce.

People line up for the hotdog and chips dinner served at the community center.

The disc jockey sets up for the street dance on Main Street that lasted well into the evening.