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Port of Ridgefield gears up for Fourth of July parade

Originally published in The Reflector, 27 June, 2001. Reprinted with permission.

by Heidi-Wallenborn

Port of Ridgefield commis­sioner Joe Melroy said he’s always wanted to ride in a boat during a parade.

This year, he will be accommodated.

Port executive director Brent Grening and manager Laurie Olin have secured the use of a 23 food cuddy cabin boat from Pacific Boatland in Salmon Creek.

The sporty blue and white 235 Sundowner will be pulled by a Suburban driven by sales manager Troy Palena.

“We wanted a. nautical theme,” Olin said. “The Port has a nautical history.”

The boat will be decked out in streamers, banners, flags and helium balloons, Olin said, as well as carry about 130 pounds worth of candy for tossing to bystanders.

Although the theme of the parade is Reflections in History, Olin said the commissioners will not enter the parade judging contest.

“Joe just wanted to ride in a boat,” Olin said, “so he will.”

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