Rain Doesn’t Dampen Fun
By BETHANY A. ROMANEKArticle Photos
Rain-soaked streamers, shades of red, white and blue apparel, and smiles could be found in Dimmeydale Friday morning, as the community celebrated its 70th Fourth of July parade.
Residents of the Wheeling neighborhood also observed Independence Day with an American flag raising, food and festivities. Rain showers didn't halt the celebration, as a cascade of decorated bicycles, strollers, wagons, scooters and even miniature horses - thanks to Sue Abraham - lined up at the First Baptist Church parking lot where the parade kicked-off.
Dressed as Uncle Sam, Dimmeydale resident Bob Reddy led parade participants through the streets of the close-knit community. Ohio County Sheriff Tom Burgoyne, along with several deputies and Wheeling police officers also took part in the event.
Grand marshals of the historic parade were Harold Thomas and newly elected Wheeling City Councilman Don Atkinson.
Thomas is the husband of the late Opal Thomas, who lost her life in a house fire last December. The celebration was dedicated to Opal, who was a retired nurse from Peterson Rehabilitation Hospital and Geriatric Center in Wheeling.
Harold Thomas is the senior business development officer for Progressive Bank and past president and chief executive officer at Wheeling National Bank. He is well-known for his past portrayals of Uncle Sam during the parade. The couple had recently celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary.
"This is without a doubt the greatest community there could ever be," Thomas said. "I mean that. They sure were there when I needed them. The home I lived in is being rebuilt and will be completely new inside, but I'm going to sell it."
Despite rain, Thomas said he was still enjoying the traditional Fourth of July events and was happy the children were still eager to participate.
"The kids love it," he said. "What's a shame today is so many people decorate with crepe paper and with the rain today it will last two minutes."
Atkinson stood with an umbrella greeting people of the neighborhood he has lived in for 22 years. While Atkinson has been a part of the parade during that time, Friday's event was his first as a councilman.
"It's rainy, but it goes on," he said. "I haven't missed one in 22 years. The kids will come out in the rain. It's always a big success rain or shine. They decorate for weeks for this. There is also a picnic down at the shelter. It may be raining but everything is alright."
Judy Steinman, the first female commander of Wheeling Post 1 American Legion, carried an American flag in the parade. A retired United States Marine, Steinman said she came out for the little ones who have the freedom to play and ride their bikes.
"We have to keep the future for them," Steinman said. "I have six children, 10 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. I have one son who retired after 20 years in the Marine Corps, and another son who will have 20 years in the United States Navy. It's good to be here today and to see the parents bring their kids out. It's teaching them about America and what freedom is all about."
