Heath, Texas, July 4, 2009… Laurence Drive drenched in red, white and blue for the 4^th of July was a sure sign summer is in full swing as the Heath community turned out in record numbers to watch or participate in the City’s Annual Independence Day Parade.

“This is one of the traditions that make our hometown so special,” said Heath Mayor John Ratcliffe. “The community and patriotic spirit displayed by everyone who comes out to watch or march in the parade makes me feel very proud and honored to be a part of Heath.”

“The parade is so special because our citizens are the driving force,” says Lori Lawing, chairman of the City of Heath’s Special Events Board. “We set the stage and watch the magic happen. It is really fun seeing your friends and neighbors getting all ‘tricked out’ in red, white and blue. The festive atmosphere is contagious.”

Hundreds of people of all ages lined Laurence Drive to cheer and wave to their friends and neighbors as they rode by on colorfully decorated floats, golf carts, off-road vehicles, antique cars, wagons and strollers, and bikes and trikes.

Special honor was paid to area residents who are currently serving in the Armed Forces and those who have defended their country in the past, while the Rockwall-Heath High School marching band filled the air with patriotic tunes and the rhythms of the drum line.  

Everyone gathered immediately after the parade at Towne Center Park Pavilion behind City Hall to cool off with free popsicles provided by the City of Heath. 

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