Fourth of July, VIII

Pittsfield, MA

The obligatory warplane overflight.

Pittsfield, MA

Fourth of July, VII

Pittsfield, MA

Certainly nothing unusual about people taking pictures of each other as well as the marchers at a parade, it's just become more common with the ubiquitous cell phone camera. Nothing unusual about cheerleaders doing dangerous-looking stunts either. But look at the lower right corner of the second photograph. First time I've encountered someone sketching the action at a parade. He kept the small sketchbook close to his jacket, quickly flipping it open to draw with a short pencil for a few seconds at a time. (As always, you can click on any photo to get a larger view, then click your browser's back button to return.)

Pittsfield, MA

Fourth of July, VI

Pittsfield, MA

Pittsfield, MA

Fourth of July, V

Pittsfield, MA

The balloon crews merge from the side street alternating with other marching units to head up the main thoroughfare, North Street, which is also US Route 7, closed to all other traffic for the duration. Along the route the balloons have to be lowered to the ground to pass below the traffic light stanchions.

Pittsfield, MA

Fourth of July, IV

Pittsfield, MA

The balloons are inflated and volunteer crews practice handling he lines on a side street before the start of the parade.

Pittsfield, MA

Fourth of July, II

Pittsfield, MA

Great name for a fife and drum corps: the Adamsville Ancients.