Everyone Marches to Own Drummer in Fun-Loving Nevada City Parade. Sept 10, 2006.
Gov. Schwarzenegger sent his regrets but there will be plenty of other political candidates in this year's 40th annual Nevada City Constitution Day Parade on Sunday (Sept. 10).
And in keeping with the parade's theme, “Freedom of Speech,” there will be plenty of humorous, zany and probably controversial entries marching through the downtown historical district.
New this year is a group called “Billionaires for Bush,” bringing the slogan “The best government money can buy.” Grandmothers for Peace will be marching as will Americans for Constitutional Integrity.
President Bush himself will be represented by local resident Barney Becker as the Famous Marching Presidents of Nevada City entertain the town for the 19th straight year, representing all the nation's presidents, along with a bevy of First Ladies and secret service agents.
Veteran parade coordinator George Harper of Nevada City said the parade offers everyone the opportunity to celebrate the Constitution in his or her own way. “We never turn anyone away,” he said. “We'll take entries right up until the day of the parade.”
A host of Nevada County media leaders are riding in this year's parade, in a special observance of the “Freedom of Speech” theme.
The parade also features the fun-loving Ophir Prison Marching Band, several other marching bands, the Merry Widows Society, the ancient and honorable order of E Clampus Vitus, numerous marching and motorized Masonic units, clowns and other characters, even a fire breathing dragon.
Bringing authentic historical presence to the parade are Signers of the Constitution, the American Civil War Association, WW II and Vietnam veteran marching groups and many others. In all, about 80 entries are expected.
The parade, a local tradition since, 1967, begins at 2 p.m. at the top of Broad Street and moves through the heart of historic downtown Nevada City.
The Constitution Day celebration is sponsored by Nevada Lodge No. 13, F.&A.M., the 49er Breakfast Rotary Club of Nevada City and the Nevada City Constitution Day Committee.
