The Rotary Club of LaGrange was proud to begin the new 2024-2025 Rotary year with our first service project on July 6. Each year LaGrange Rotarians serve as parade marshals for the Annual Sweet Land of Liberty 4th of July Parade which is now hosted by the Junior Service League of LaGrange. The LaGrange parade is unique in that only children march in the procession. The parade is now in its 40th year and LaGrange Rotarians are proud to march along with the children ensuring their safety along the route.

This celebration was the idea of Annette Mills Boyd, the wife of Rotarian Jim Boyd. This parade was established to give the children of LaGrange an opportunity to participate in a festive celebration of the birth of our great nation. Although both Annette and Jim are no longer with us, the parade is still held in their honor. Each year this children's parade is well received by all. The parade route is lined with families and neighbors.

This year the parade was entitled "Red, White and Boots" and the parade's Grand Marshal was Anthony Talley, creator of the $1 Thursday Program.  Our Rotary members act as parade marshals to help keep the children on route and safe on their various non-motored vehicles. The parade is also a great opportunity for a time of fellowship among our club members.