BESSEMER -- The Independence Day celebration in Bessemer isn't very far off.
The theme for Bessemer Blast this year is "USA military equals freedom."
"Now that we are a month into spring and with warmer temperatures expected 'soon,'" said Lou Kalan, chairperson for the Giant Fourth of July Parade, "we would like to urge participants to follow the theme and consider entering a float in Bessemer Blast 2008."
The Fourth of July Committee and Kalan encourages area businesses, clubs, youth groups, churches and organizations to consider constructing a float unit for this year.
With the Vietnam Moving Wall in town and with the additional advertising being done to invite many surrounding communities and veterans to come visit the wall, the committee hopes they will experience an increase in the crowd viewing their giant parade on Friday, July 4.
The committee has also increased prize money for this year's event.
In the past a total of $1,000 was given in prizes. This year a grand prize of $700 has been added with first place at $500, second place $400, third place $300 and fourth place $100.
Also new this year, any organization, such as Little League, Soccer Club, Booster Club that has in the past walked with a donation blanket in the parade must now walk along side a float unit.
If a group does not register a float unit, area youth groups will be not allowed to walk the parade route.
Judging staff usually consists of three individuals from diverse backgrounds.
The Fourth of July Committee attempts to secure judges from Gogebic or Iron counties.
"We are sincerely grateful for these judges volunteering their time," said Kalan.
The judges have five areas of criteria for judging: theme, decoration, crowd appeal-showmanship, creativity and professionalism.
Each category has a possibility of earning 10 points with a total of 50 points.
According to Kalan, judges are given strict guidelines while looking at effort, workmanship, artistic impression, and creative endeavors.
No additional points are given for individuals riding on a float and the judges are asked to be fair and impartial. The final sum of points determines the winners.
Kalan said, "Letters and registration forms will be mailed about May 1 to all Bessemer Chamber members and about 200 others who have participated in the giant parade in the past."
Another new feature is the opportunity for area business-organizations to sponsor one of the marching bands in the parade. If you decide to sponsor a band, the Fourth of July Committee will have a banner made with the 'sponsoring agent's' name.
This banner will be marched down the parade route just in front of the band they are sponsoring.
Questions can be referred to Denise Stephens at 906-364-5688.
If you would like to receive a letter and registration form, contact Kalan at 663-4871 or go to the official Web site www.bessemer4th.com.
"Deadline for registration is June 25. Seems like a ways off, but you'll be surprised how quickly time flies," said Kalan.
