Freedom Fest 2016

1America MY HOME SWEET HOME P Morgan Hill Freedom Fest 2016

Am�ica MY HOME SWEET HOME2016SOUVENIR EVENT PROGRAM

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Freed� Run

C� Cruise ‘n Sh�

Family S�eet Dance

F�ew�ks With A Spash

2 America MY HOME SWEET HOME P Morgan Hill Freedom Fest 2016


Am�ica MY HOME SWEET HOME

2016 is here and Independence Day Celebration (IDC) once again brings the Freedom Fest events to Morgan Hill in recognition of the

July 4th holiday. Our dedicated group of patriotic community -minded volunteers have worked closely together over the past decades, making us feel more like a big family. United, we share a common vision, an ideal of how to serve our community. This year as we celebrate the land of the free and the home of the brave, our theme is “America, My Home Sweet Home”.

Home means many things to many people, but we can probably all agree we want home to be a safe and happy place. Over the centuries millions of people have left their homes to come to America. Looking for a better life or more opportunity or fleeing persecution, they came for a better life, a better home for them-selves and their families. For those of us whose parents made the journey on our behalf, we can enjoy the sweet home America can be, but it is up to us to make it happen.

Home for me has been many places. Born in Ohio, we lived in three different houses in the Dayton area with stops in Florida and Texas before moving to California. While my father was not in the military, we lived in nine house (Homes) before I moved out on my own. My early adult years were no different. My family and I now live in home number 18 for me, but only home number two for my daughter. That means a lot to me. The fourteen years I have spent in Morgan Hill is the longest I have ever lived anywhere.

Even though I lived in many places, they were all home to me because my family and friends were there. Morgan Hill has been a special home for me. It is a vibrant place with a strong sense

of community and willingness to give back that I haven’t seen anywhere else in my travels. You can see every-where in town. Through our churches, schools, volunteer organizations, businesses, sports clubs, city government and employees, everyone is working hard to make Morgan Hill “Home Sweet Home”.

The IDC family invites you and your family to join the Morgan Hill Freedom Fest events as we create a little Morgan Hill hominess for all of us by celebrating “America, Home Sweet Home”. Jeff Dixon, IDC President


Mission StatementIndependence Day Celebrations (IDC) is a non-profit organization committed to uniting the community of Morgan Hill, CA around the vision of our founding fathers who boldly proclaimed that “all men are created equal and endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, that among these are life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.” We are committed to reinforcing and sustaining the principles of American freedom in our community through Independence Day events of the Morgan Hill Freedom Fest.

PROGRAM DESIGN & LAYOUT: J. Chris Mickartz, IPC Publishing (Publishers of gmhTODAY Magazine)

2016 Committee MembersSTAN SEAGREN Car Cruise and Show Chair

ELIZABETH JOLISSAINTSecretary, Volunteers

KAREN CRANE Patriotic Sing ChairEssay Contest Chair

DENNIS DAL POGGETTO Family Street Dance Chair

JEFF DIXON President, LogisticsFireworks on the Green

RICH GAMBOA Vice President,Music Coordinator

TIM GOODELL Logistics

BOB HUNT Parade Chair

MAUREEN HUNT Parade Chair

KIM MOYANOTreasurer

FRANCES NANCE Marketing, Publicity Chair

MANNY PADILLA Family Street Dance Co-Chair

ANN ROBERTS Sponsor Concierge

COMMITTEE: Front Row (l-r) Bill Carlson, Kim Moyano, Dennis Dal Poggetto, Frances Nance, Jeff Dixon. Second Row (l-r) Maureen Hunt, Jane Thuirer, Tim Goodell, Bev VanderWeide, Manny Padilla, Bob Mutzenberg, Donna Cowan, Don Cowan. Thirrd Row (l-r) Bob Hunt, Charles Weston, Woody Salyer, Elizabeth Jolissaint, Michael Brookman, Ann Roberts, Stan Seagren. Not in photo: Karen Crane


CHARLES WESTONPast President, Freedom Run Chair,Fundraising Chair

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Letter From Our Mayor


17555 Peak AvenueMorgan Hill, CA 95037-4128

TEL: 408-779-7271FAX: 408-779-3117

www.morganhill.gov

STEVE TATEMayor

July 4, 2016HOME SWEET HOME - MORGAN HILL!

Welcome to Morgan Hill! We are so glad that you chose our wonderful city as your destination for this year’s celebration of our nation’s founding. This year’s theme of “America — My Home Sweet Home” captures the spirit of the United States as a place for freedom, opportunity and the pursuit of happiness. It also reflects our community as a perfect “sweet spot” to gather in celebration of our wonderful nation!

Our residents love Morgan Hill’s small-town ambience and spirit of community. They are engaged, working together with passion to accomplish community goals, striving to improve an already great community. They come out in mass for our annual Fourth of July “Freedom Fest” celebratory series of events which exemplify all that is so very good about Morgan Hill. so , on behalf of the Morgan Hill City Council, it is with great pride that I welcome you to this year’s celebration of Independence Day. I know you will thoroughly enjoy all the events you attend.

Freedom Fest is produced by Independence Day Celebrations which is staffed entirely by dedicated Morgan Hill community volunteers. They work tirelessly for many months to prepare the rich, entertaining menu of events for you to enjoy. They represent the spirit of volunteerism that makes Morgan Hill such an enjoyable community – we so much appreciate their significant contributions to make the holiday so festive and fun.

Events kick-off July 3 with the Patriotic Sing at the Community Center Amphitheater. It is a real hidden gem, giving you a chance to meet exuberant Morgan Hill youth who will thoroughly charm and entertain you. After the Sing, move up Monterey Road a couple of blocks to our fabulous down-town for the Family Music Fest with entertainment for all ages. Rise early on the 4th to run the 5K on the parade course. The grand parade commences mid-morning, starting with a Classic Car Cruise. Fireworks commence at sunset at our Outdoor Sports Complex. Preceded by entertainment, they close out the events in a very spectacular way!

We encourage visitors to Morgan Hill this holiday to get to know us, enjoy our home-town atmosphere, and visit our shops, restaurants, wineries, beautiful back roads and other amenities. Have a safe, sane and very enjoyable holiday!

Sincerely,

Steve Tate



2016 Event Schedule

Sunday, July 3

Patriotic SingMorgan Hill Downtown Amphitheater

(Corner of E. Dunne Avenue & Monterey Road)6:00 – 7:00 pm

Family Street DanceDowntown Morgan Hill (Third Street & Monterey Road)

7:00 – 11:00 pm

Monday, July 4

1 Mile Children’s Run — 5K Walk/RunRegistration at Parking Lot (SW Corner Peak and Main)

6:30 –7:45 am1 Mile Children‘s Run starts at 7:45 am

5K Walk/Run starts at 8:00 am

Car Cruise n’ ShowRegistration at Community Center

7:30 amCar Cruise 9:30 am

Car Show After The Parade

ParadeDowntown Morgan Hill

Entertainment begins at 9:00 amParade starts at 10:00 am

Fireworks With A SplashCool off at the Dennis Kennedy Aquatics Center (16200 Condit Road)

Doors open from 6 -10 pm (Purchase tickets at MorganHillAquaticFoundation.org)

Fireworks at Morgan Hill Outdoor Sports Center (On Condit between Tennant & E. Dunne Avenues)

Entertainment at 5:00 pm • Fireworks at dark

Independence Day Celebrations, Inc is a 501c(3) non-pro�t organization.Tax ID#45-0970609


E ach year, our talented Parade Chairpersons, Bob and Maureen Hunt, present the members of

Freedom Fest with their idea for a wonderful theme for our 4th of July events. This year’s theme was eagerly adopted by Freedom Fest and is: “America, My Home, Sweet, Home.” Once the theme was announced, the children of Morgan Hill and San Martin were encouraged to enter the Freedom Fest Essay Contest. Their topic was: “Why is America such a great place to call your Home, Sweet, Home?” Our panel of judges had the difficult task of choosing winners in our two divisions: Children in 2nd and 3rd Grades (Primary) and Children in 4th, 5th, and 6th Grades (Intermediate).

Essay Contest

Children wrote about America’s beauty, democracy, opportunity for education and jobs, focus on equality, and our Armed Forces. Please take a minute to see our country through the eyes of a child by reading the winning essays in this program.

As the chairperson of this contest, I was so fortunate to be able to read each and every one of our 487 essays. This number represents the largest participation in the history of the contest. Walsh S.T.E.A.M. Academy, alone, submitted 237 entries. We received essays from home-schooled children as well as from students in our community’s public and private schools. We thank our young authors and their teachers for taking the time to share their thoughts with us.

“AMERICA, MY HOME SWEET HOME”Freedom Fest’s 2016 Essay Topic is: “Why is America a

great place to call your “Home, Sweet, Home?”

P BY KAREN ANN CRANE Children’s Essay Contest Chair


Each child who wrote an essay received a ribbon and Patriotic pencil for his/her efforts. Our winners receive cash, T-shirts, and trophies. They are our “Guests of Honor” at this year’s Patriotic Sing to be held Sunday, July 3rd at 6 p.m. at the Mor-gan Hill Amphitheater (Dunne and Monte-rey). Be watching for them on the antique Fire Truck in our Freedom Fest 4th of July Parade. You’ll see the smiling faces of youngsters who understand the meaning of “America, My Home, Sweet, Home.”

First Place BOSTON ASHE (El Toro Elementary School, Second Grade, Teacher: Mrs. Scovel)

Primary Division Children in Second and Third Grades

I think America is a good home because of many reasons. I have lived in

America my entire life and I never want to leave. I want to stay here because other places are not as fun, safe, or as free as America. America is my “Home, Sweet, Home” because America is a nation under

God, America has a strong military, and Americans are free.

In America, we are free to pray, believe in God, and go to church. There are places in other countries where people cannot go to church. They get in big trouble if they do not listen to their

government. There are a lot of churches in America. People from church help the poor by giving them money and food. If I could not go to church or pray, I would feel sad.

America is my “Home, Sweet, Home” because I feel safe. America has a strong


“AMERICA, MY HOME SWEET HOME”Freedom Fest’s 2016 Essay Topic is: “Why is America a

great place to call your “Home, Sweet, Home?”

military that keeps us safe from bad guys. If America did not have a strong military, we would lose our freedom. Some of our military sacrifice their lives for our freedom. Other countries are afraid of America because we have a strong military. If we did not, they would attack us.

Second Place MELANIE NGUYEN (Charter School of Morgan Hill, Third Grade, Teacher: Ms. Weinstein)

Third PlacePAOLA LEDESMA (Barrett Elementary School, Third Grade, Teacher: Mrs. De Haro)

In America, we are free and are not servants. If I was a servant, I would do a lot of work and get nothing. In America, when you work hard, you are rewarded. In America, we can grow things, sing songs and play games. In some places, the government tells you what to grow or

sing or play. That would make me sad. I am happy to be an American.

America is the greatest country on earth. There are so many good things about America that I cannot count them all. That is why America is my “Home, Sweet, Home.

I am a third generation Vietnamese Amer-ican. Unlike my parents and grandpar-

ents who immigrated here to the USA, I’m the first generation in the family who was born and raised in the United States. I am, therefore, an American by birth and Amer-ica is my only home.

Through many stories from my parents’ generation, I learned that many of the basic things I enjoy and take for granted today are not available or not accessi-ble in many other parts of the world. In some countries, there’s no such thing as freedom of speech. If I was to disagree with the government and speak up against it, I could be arrested and jailed. Here in America, I can speak freely what I think, I can honestly express my opinions.

I have been watching the presidential campaigns lately with my parents. They also explained to me that the right to vote

does not exist in many countries. In those countries, I would not have had any say on who would be the president. Here, I am glad that I have the freedom to make my own choices, and I will have the right to vote when I’m old enough to become eligible. My vote can make a difference and I can influence the future of America.

I also learned that women do not have the same rights as men in different parts of the world. As a girl, I would not have the same right to education as a boy. Equally unfair, women are not allowed to drive, not allowed to have the same job as men even if they’re capable, or not allowed to run for important positions. Here in the USA, I can have as much education as I like. I can even run for president, as the example set by Ms. Hillary Clinton.

Watching the news about on-going wars in many regions of the world, I feel

fortunate to live in America where I feel safe and protected. Imagine that I have to live in a place full of fear from all the war going around me. I would just feel sad, frightened and insecure. Knowing that my parents had to risk their lives escaping from Vietnam helped me better appreciate growing up in my peaceful home country.

America is also known to be a place where dreams can come true. If I work hard and persevere, I will have a chance to reach my potential and fulfill my dream. As I recently learned from Sharkboy and Lavagirl movie: “Everything that is or was began with a dream. So dream a better dream and work to make it reality.”

I can call America “My Home, Sweet, Home” as I always feel safe and secure around my family, I enjoy many rights and privileges not available in many countries, and I can be all that I can be.

This is why I think America is a good place to call my “Home, Sweet,

Home”. One reason is we have freedom.

For example, I have the freedom to go to school. We have the freedom to choose any religion we want. Also, we have the freedom to choose where we want to live.

Another reason why I think America is a good place to call my “Home, Sweet, Home” is that there are laws that say you have to go to school. I also like that there is free access to school. We, in America, are lucky to be able to go to school. Edu-

cation is the best thing you can give a child.

My final reason why I think America is my “Home, Sweet, Home” is because you can choose any religion you want. In my case, I am Catholic, while most of my friends belong to a different religion. This does not stop us from being friends. These are my reasons why I think America is my great “Home, Sweet, Home.


First Place MING LU CHEN (Nordstrom Elementary, Sixth Grade, Teacher: Mrs. Sheets )

Intermediate Division Children in Fourth, Fifth, and Sixth Grades

I was born in Jiangxi province, China, during the “Year of the Monkey,” 2004.

Coincidentally, the U.S. gained indepen-dence on July 4, 1776, in the “Year of the Monkey,” too. So, even before I became a citizen, the U.S. and I had a lot in common. My adoptive parents took me to be sworn in as a U.S. citizen when I was ten months old at the U.S. Consulate in Guangzhow, China. We got on a plane the very next day and headed for New York, New York, to start my new life as a citizen in my adopted country, America!

I lived in New York City until I was six years old. During that time I traveled to New Mexico, Texas, Pennsylvania, New Hampshire, New Jersey, Rhode Island, and even the capital, Washington, D.C. I have seen the Statue of Liberty, Indian pueblos, Laurel Caverns, White Mountains, the Washington Monument, the White House and a whole bunch more! Even as

a little child, these places inspired me with their beauty, majesty, power, importance, and history!

Then I moved to California, the Golden State, in 2011. This was one of the biggest changes of my family’s lives. We settled in Morgan Hill which is in the South Bay area also known as the South Valley. The towering redwood forests, plentiful poppies, rolling hills, fertile valleys, snow-capped mountains, and lapping, lazy beaches all became part of my new life and home. Moving across the country was one of the greatest experiences of my life. I saw the many differences of our country first hand such as: cultures, geography, history, and opinions.

In my opinion, the United States of America is absolutely, positively,

incredible! It’s a country where everybody has a chance and can become someone memorable and great. You can be a genius and cure cancer or the common cold. Or, maybe you can write and star in a new hit musical, win the Nobel Peace Prize, and change how we think. You could create a masterpiece that will be praised for years to come or map the deepest oceans and the farthest reaches of the galaxy. The U.S. is a land of hope, dreams, and endless opportunity.

I wasn’t born in the U.S., but I have been in my adoptive country for practi-cally all my life. I have experienced the U.S. from the East to the West coast. The United States of America is now my home, sweet, home and, as I strive to make my mark, I am hopeful that it will never change. After all, we were both born in the year of the ambitious, adventurous, clever, creative, and hardworking monkey!

Second Place JOSH PROVENCIO (Walsh S.T.E.A.M. Academy, Fifth Grade, Teacher: Mrs. Burkhart)

Why is America my home, sweet, home? America is my home

because they have amazing places to visit. They also provide many things for you. They have food that is good. America has a democracy. We have the chance to choose who the president will be. We can choose the governor and can vote in any election. We also have free education. America is my “Home, Sweet, Home.”

First, America is my “Home, Sweet, Home” because we are safe. We have safety because we have policemen. We also have the military who keep us safe from other countries. We have the Air Force to help in a war as well. Other countries like Syria are being overcome by ISIS. Syrians could not fight back and are now fleeing for their lives.

Another reason is that America gives


First Place MING LU CHEN (Nordstrom Elementary, Sixth Grade, Teacher: Mrs. Sheets )

Third Place JOLEE AGUILERA (San Martin/Gwinn Elementary, Sixth Grade, Teacher: Mrs. Moralez)

America is my home. It has laws that protect us and nature. It has the free

education. Most important, it has freedom - freedom to believe in what we want to believe in and the ability to be who we are. The religion that we want to practice is available to all. We have free education that allows anyone to learn how to read and write. There are laws that protect us from evil and bad. More laws help protect our wildlife parks from being removed and cut down. America is my “Home, Sweet, Home” in many ways.

Laws are there to protect nature and us. We need these or else we might not have been given the ability to see National Parks such as Sequoia National Park. I recently passed through Yosemite for skiing lessons and it was beautiful. It probably wouldn’t have been there if there weren’t laws. We have laws to help protect national parks that we hope one day our grandkids will see. The family that we have is here

Some on the people in these countries can actually be better than their parents but they may not take the opportunities.

The last reason is because we have freedom. We have freedom because we don’t have slavery. For example, in China, India, and Pakistan, people are not treated equally. We have human rights. Some examples of rights are the right to free speech, owning property, and having any job.

because of the laws that protect us from robbers, house intruders, etc. We love our family and we still have them because of laws. We need laws to help protect our safety and nature’s safety too.

Many are grateful for free education. Education helps families who don’t have money send their children to school. Child refugees who want to learn how to read can learn. They come from different countries that have wars and no education is available in that environment. The ability to learn how to speak different languages such as English is a huge thing for them. I value my education and I make sure I work hard on every test and on every school assignment. Some people take this bonus of America for granted, while others come to America for an education.

The most important thing that is taken for granted in America is freedom. Free-dom of speech, freedom to be who you

are, and freedom of religion are found in our country. People from Mexico come to escape the bad things such as crimes and gangs. People from the Middle East come to escape the wars. Freedom though, is taken for granted by people who live in America. They think that they can do what they want to because it is a free country. They believe that they have the right to do what they want to and they ignore the laws. America is amazing because of the freedom we have.

America is my home. It is where I was born and raised. I was taught not to take anything for granted, but to appreciate what I have. I love and value my education each and every day. I follow the laws and visit national parks where one day my children will visit too, thanks to the laws that protect the parks. I have the right to say what I want to say and be who I am. I live in a house and have many things to appreciate. America is my “Home, Sweet, Home.”

us many opportunities to be better than our parents. We can be better than our parents by doing well in school. We can also get a good job. In Niger, Burundi, Malawi, the people that live in these countries have chances to be better than their parents but don’t succeed sometimes because they have less opportunities. In America, we have many opportunities to be a better person and get better jobs.

America is an amazing place to be living because we have freedom, many opportunities, and safety. One of my favorite quotes about America is “American was not built on fear. America was built on courage, on imagination, and an unbeatable determination to do the job at hand.” In conclusion, America is a great place to call my “Home, Sweet, Home”.

AMERICA, MY HOME, SWEET HOME


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COMING SOONFALL 2016




P BY KAREN ANN CRANE Patriotic Sing Chair

As the calendar turns to February, it’s time to begin thinking about Freedom Fest’s Patriotic Sing in July! What? Yes, we have so many wonderful opportunities happening in conjunction with the annual Patriotic Sing, we need an early start!

In true “small-town” fashion, our Sing features the children of our community singing the songs of our country for families, friends, and our audience.

The Sing is a performance presented on Sunday, July 3rd at the Morgan Hill Amphitheater (corner of Monterey and Dunne) at 6 pm. The Sing is one of the events offered, free of charge, to our community, by Freedom Fest. Any child, entering grades 1 through 6 is invited to be in our chorus. There are no auditions and no fee to be a chorus member.

The original goal of the Sing was to teach children the lyrics of America’s treasured Patriotic songs. Songs like “Grand Old Flag,” “God Bless America,” “America, the Beautiful” and more must be taught to our next generation of singers or these songs will be forgotten. The Sing also revives a Morgan Hill 4th of July tradition from the turn of the century. At that time, children would gather on the eve of the 4th of July to sing Patriotic songs – and, so we continue today.

Over the years, with so many of our returning chorus members being proficient with their songs, the Sing evolved into an event to honor those who serve. At our rehearsals, we collect items which we donate to the South Bay Chapter of the Blue Star Moms. These dedicated moms, whose motto is “Our hearts are on the line,” package donations and send them off to their deployed sons and daughters. We, at the Sing, are proud to know our efforts here in Morgan

Sunday, July 36:00 pm • Morgan Hill Downtown Amphitheater

Patriotic Sing

Hill, make the challenges of serving in a foreign country a little easier. And, before each Patriotic Sing, stationery is provided for our audience to write notes of encouragement to our soldiers.

We have created a “Wall of Heroes” with the names of soldiers (both past and currently serving), their branch of service and area of deployment. These names are submitted by our chorus members and read like a history book. We have the names of soldiers from the Civil War, to those currently deployed in Afghani-stan. It’s wonderful to see our Viet Nam vets standing proudly by their names and receiving the thanks they so deserve.

The Patriotic Singers also perform at the Street Dance and Fireworks. However, the highlight for many of our youngsters is our performance along the Parade route. Thanks to Bill Jacobson of Bill Jacobson Trucking, our singers ride an eighteen-wheeler through town singing their socks off for America. Our National Anthem singer, Angeline Madriaga, will


once again be opening our program. This year’s Freedom Fest theme is

“America, My Home, Sweet, Home.” We will be honoring soldiers who have recently returned from deployment. We will also be expressing our gratitude to two men who passionately served Morgan Hill. Our guest soloist, Catherine Conner, will be singing as we honor Mayor Dennis Kennedy and William H. Brown. Both of these men passed away this year and both gave countless hours to our community.

I hope you enjoy this year’s Patriotic Sing. Here, you’ll see the faces of our future. Regardless of ethnicity, or age, in our chorus you’ll see respect, enthusiasm, pride, and a spirit of patriotism as we celebrate the 4th of July in Morgan Hill though the magic of music.

With a song in my heart!



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Grand Marshall2016 Morgan Hill Freedom Fest Parade Grand Marshall

Eddie BowersAm�ica MY HOME SWEET HOME

For years after his discharge from the Army in 1970, Eddie Bowers was looking for a way to honor all of those who have served in the Armed Forces. Originally his design

for a memorial consisted of a plaque, which then evolved into the current Veteran’s Memorial Square, located in the

median area at Monterey and First Street. The Memorial was paid for and installed by volunteers. And bright

and early every Memorial Day and Veteran’s Day since the Memorial was dedicated in May, 1991

you could find this year’s 4th of July Parade Grand Marshall, Eddie Bowers officiating over ceremonies honoring all who have served in America’s military.

In 1967 after graduating from Live Oak High School, Eddie enlisted, in the Army at 19. Once basic training was completed he was sent to Vietnam where he spent more than 500 hours as a gunship door gunner during the 26 months he was there. He received two Army commendations for his excellent service and in June 1970 he was Honorably discharged.

When he was two in 1950 Eddie’s family moved from Minnesota to Morgan Hill where

he spent his childhood. After serving in the Army he returned to

Morgan Hill and opened a barbershop on 2nd Street. He worked with the Cosmetology

instructor at Gavilan College and awarded scholarships to students interested in continuing

their education in the barber/cosmetology field. During this time he was married and he and his wife of

43 years have two children and one grandson. Through the years he’s been involved with the VFW,

and helped other veterans obtain medical treatment through the Veterans Affairs Hospital in San Jose. And every year since the

Veteran’s Memorial Square has been dedicated he has planned and coordinated all of the ceremonies for Memorial Day and Veteran’s Day. Eddie exemplifies the saying . . . “Land of the Free, Because of the Brave.”

Thank You Eddie!

Top Photo: Eddie Bower standing proudly beside the Veteran’s Memorial he designed and helped build to honor all of America’s veterans.

Left: Eddie in the door of a UH1B gunship


2016 Morgan Hill Freedom Fest Parade Grand Marshall

Eddie Bowers

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T he 2015 Morgan Hill Freedom Fest July 4th Parade was outstanding!!! Parade participants had a great

time decorating to the theme; “The Great American Road Trip.” From the Golden Gate Bridge to the Statute of Liberty and all points in between, America was well represented! Several participants had Route 66 road markers on their entries, which brought to mind that old song “Get Your Kicks On Route 66.” There were so many

Paradenew units in 2015 including the San Jose Sharks Zamboni, the Jr. Sharks, and a wonderful folk dance troop from Bolivia. Diana Murphy Hill and Hiram Morgan Hill, from whom our city derived its name, Morgan Hill, were special guests of the 2015 July 4th Parade! There were nine bands, twenty floats, and about 50 horses in a multitude of colors and sizes.

We can’t wait to see what participants will do for the 2016 Parade.

A look back at the 2015 Independence Day Parade“THE GREAT AMERICAN ROAD TRIP”

P MAUREEN HUNT Parade Chair

BOB HUNT Parade Chair


This year the 2016, Morgan Hill Freedom Fest July 4th Parade is dedicated to the memory of Dennis Kennedy, beloved former Morgan Hill mayor, effective, caring leader, and true public servant. He was respected and admired by all and will be missed. Dennis, this one’s for you and the community you loved.

Freedom Fest Children’s Essay Contest winners. Their winning essays were based on the topic: If You Could Travel To Any Of America’s Historic

Monuments or National Parks, Where Would You Go And Why?”


A look back at the 2015 Independence Day Parade“THE GREAT AMERICAN ROAD TRIP”

Congratulations to St. Catherine Church Winner of the Grand Sweep Stakes Award!

For the second year in a row the “imagineers” at St. Catherine Church have produced an award- winning float. Their float depicted two of California’s favorite “Road Trip” destinations, Hollywood and the Golden Gate Bridge! Congratulations! We’re looking forward to seeing your version of “America, My Home Sweet Home” in the 2016 Freedom Fest Parade.

Congratulations to CommonWealth Central Credit Union

Winner of the 2015Parade Theme Award,

“The Great American Road Trip”

Some of the sites depicted on their “Road Trip” float across our country included the Statue of Liberty, Mount Rushmore, Route 66 and the colorful Victorian homes of San Francisco. With two branch locations in Morgan Hill, Common Wealth actively supports their local community through student scholarships and local charities. They are proud to once again be a major sponsor of the Freedom Fest July 4th Parade.

The winners were chosen by the professional organization, Northern California Parade Judges Association


We were honored to have retired Army Major James Allen Taylor in the parade. He is the recipient of the United States military’s highest decoration, the Congressional Medal of Honor for his valiant actions in the Vietnam War.

Winning this year’s “Most Patriotic” award went to the Freedom Fest Patriotic Sing kids! These kids practiced hard all year long to get ready for the 4th of July!

Guess where the folks from The Little Gym are going this summer! Their float was awarded 1st Place in the Business and Professional category! Disney fans loved it!

Best Adult Eques-trian was awarded to Claudio Arroyo dressed in an authentic Mexican Charro outfit. He’s riding his beautiful

First Place winners of the Adult Dance Group were Kantuta Ballet Folklórico de Bolivia. In addition to the San Francisco Carnaval Parade in May this group performs all over the States and in Bolivia. Their dances are rich in the tradition, symbolism and folklore of Boliva.


Uesugi pumpkin park has everyone loaded up and they’re all ready for a cross country road trip. They took home a 3rd Place in “Floats, Business and Professional.”

In the Freedom Fest July 4th Parade for the first time were the Youth Hockey Players from the Jr. Sharks Hockey Club.

Making his first appearance in the 4th of July Parade is the PG & E Helmet. The kids loved it!!

Guglielmo Winery is celebrating 90 years of serving Morgan Hill! Guglielmo Winery is a third generation, family owned winery producing a wide variety of award-winning wines.

The 1st Place winner of the Novelty Band category was Sandoshin Taiko Drummers. This group was formed in 2000 as a means of blending traditional Japanese taiko drumming with various martial art styles. Hear the thunder!

The Live Oak Emerald Regime Alumni Drum Line is made up of Live Oak alumni dating back to the class of 1981. They scored a 1st in the Drum Line category


Johnson Lumber-Ace Hardware and Nursery is proud to once again be a sponsor of the Morgan Hill Independence Day Parade. Johnson Lumber is celebrating 36 years of serving the community with friendly knowledgeable service.

The Santa Clara County Horsemen’s Association was founded in San Jose in 1939 and is the oldest horse club in the State of California. They were judged as the “Best Overall Equestrian Group”.

First Place in the Novelty Commercial category was awarded to Sifu Meng’s Kung Fu Academy. Kung Fu programs and dragon dancing is available to students at the Academy. The Chinese dragon represents wisdom, power, and wealth.

The Ms. Wheelchair California Pageant, Inc., reaches across California and the nation to influence public policy and to benefit the disAbility community. Cindy DeJesus,is the current president and the 2013 Ms. Wheelchair California.

Special guests of the 2015 July 4th Parade were Hiram Morgan Hill and his wife, Diana Murphy Hill. In the late 1880s they built their house here. Visitors coming by train would ask to be let off at the Morgan Hill house. Train conductors would call out, “Morgan Hill’s” when making special stops for the Hill’s guests to disembark, and that’s how the town acquired its name.

Photography by Jeff Bentz and Maureen Hunt.


Here are a few of the many, many volunteers who help make your 4th of July Parade possible! This is one awesome group!!

Did you know that it takes more than 500 people to produce the six Morgan Hill Freedom Fest July 4th events? If you’d like to be a volunteer for the parade or any of the other events, call 408 779-1776 for more information.


We proudly supportthe Morgan HillFreedom Fest!

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Enjoy Our ExplosiveFourth

Dana & ElaineDitmore

BEING NEIGHBORS IS MORE THAN JUST GEOGRAPHY.At Bank of the West we’re committed to being active members of the communities we call home. We’re as dedicated to lending a helping hand around the neighborhood as we are to providing the personal banking, business banking and wealth management services that may be just right for you.

RACHEL HILL - AVP/BRANCH MANAGER | 206 Tenant Station | (408) 778-2775

Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender. © 2016 Bank of the West.


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THE LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE OF THE SOUTH SANTA CLARA VALLEYMorgan Hill � Gilroy � San Martin

Happy 4th of JulyMorgan Hill

“I am apt to believe that (Independence Day) will be celebrated by succeeding generations

as the great American Festival. It ought to be commemorated as the day

of deliverance by solemn acts of devotion to God Almighty. It ought to be solemnized

with pomp and parade, shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires and

illuminations, from one end of the continent to the other, from this time

forever forward.”

– President John Adams


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Angeline Madriaga will serenade us with the National Anthem just prior to the 7:45 am start

of the Morgan Hill’s 4th of July 1 mile run for children 11 years and younger. It will be followed by the 5K run/walk at 8 am.

Monday, July 46:30 am • Registration

P.A. Walsh School

Freedom Run

This year the course will be a single loop for the 5K around the large block Peak, Dunne, Monterey, and Main. It is a very straight forward course with most of the course tree-lined and relatively flat, giving serious runners a chance for a “PR” or robust walk. This year the run is part of the grand prix circuit for the Pacific Association for USA Track & Field and custom trophies.

The two runs were designed so parents can run with their children in the one-mile event, peel off just before the finishing line, then go directly to the starting line of the 5K and have your children watch as you run. What a wonderful way to come together as a family by running together!

Since the course for the runs is the same as far as the parade, and since the people get settled in their vantage points along the sidewalk hours before the parade, the runners will be cheered on by some of the expected 50,000 spectators, making it unique for a small town run to have a cheering crowd.

These two running events will mark the beginning of the series of events held on July 4th that include the parade and the end-of-the-day fireworks. The fireworks show will be returning to the soccer complex this year.

While the one-mile course route has seen designed for the children only, parents are welcome to run alongside but are not allowed to go through the finish line.

All children who participate in the one-mile run will receive a wrist band as well as a tee shirt, and the top three in

each age group will receive a medal. The first boy and girl winners of the race will win a trophy and be invited to hop on a vintage car and be a part of the parade that follows the run.

The 5K walkers and runners will take off at 8 am. If the dog needs some exercise prior to the parade, have a short leash and we won’t charge you extra. “We’ve had an Olympic runner compete in the 5K, but many people participate for the social aspect.” Race Director, Charles Weston said. “If you don’t think you are going to be the winner of the run, try putting on a costume and you might see yourself in the newspaper.”

The top winners of the 5K and 1 mile children’s run will also be invited to ride in a vintage car and be a part of the parade that follows after the run.

Both runs are intended to be fun, get you going for a full days’ worth of activities, and instill some pride in being fit enough to participate.

The race proceeds go directly to the non-profit, family oriented Freedom Fest series of events for the Morgan Hill 4th of July experience. Your fee helps pay for the fireworks!

Registration for the run can be accomplished by downloading the entry form from the Freedom Fest website, MHFreedomFest.com or by registering on-line at SVEtiming.com. Registration forms can be dropped off before 4 pm at Weston Miles Architects located at 17500 Depot Street #120 in Morgan Hill until June 26th. There are discounts for pre-registration

Competitive, you bet. You will compete with runners in the PA/USTFA grand prix circuit which consists of some of the fastest runners in Northern California.

Cool Awards, you bet. Custom wood awards made by local millworkers, Mission Bell.



P CHARLES WESTON Freedom Run Chair

Photography by Lennie Randall and Sue Brasleton

Fun, you bet. You will run on the course that will serve as the parade route just 1 hour later which will have crowds like you’ve never seen cheering you on, this will be the closet most of us will know what its like running in the Olympics.

Family Event, you bet. Run the 1 mile with your child, then turn around and run the 5k and they will watch you run, then find a place along the curb to watch the old car cruise by and then the official parade of Santa Clara County, its 140th running with all the floats, bands and animals.

prior to June 29th and further discounts for registering as a group of 2-3 and 4 or more. Make it a family event! Day of race there is no discounts, giving you an opportunity for a large donation to this wonderful community event.

Day of race registration is very crowded, so please be at the Parking Lot SW corner of Peak and Main by 6:15-7:45 am to insure that you will be able to sign up before the race starts. See the Freedom Fest website for parking information.


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Thank you to all the volunteers and donorsthat make this event possible!

Proud to be a Sponsor of the2016 Morgan Hill Freedom Fest

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Ron & Nancy’s 1931 Ford Model A Slant WindowSedan

Carl & Jenna’s 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air

Steve’s 1976 Cadillac Fleetwood El Dorado Convertible

Sal’s 1941 Chevrolet Master Deluxe 2 Door Coupe

Kathy’s 1966 Ford Mustang Convertible

Photos by Lance C. Trott


P STAN SEAGREN Car Cruise ‘n Show

What car sat in the driveway of your family “Home Sweet Home”? The American love

for cars started back with the Ford Model T and continues to this day. Pack up the car and head out to see the sights, visit relatives or just go for a Sunday drive. What was your family car? Just maybe one like it will be included in this year’s Cruise ‘n Show in Morgan Hill on the 4th of July. Come to the parade early and watch the Cruise then come over to the Community Center parking lot to review the cars close up. Hopefully these cars will bring back memories of your “Home Sweet Home”.

Starting at 9:30 pm, just before the official 4th of July Parade begins, 100 plus classic, hot rod, muscle and original pre-1986 cars will “cruise” the parade route

Monday, July 4Registration at Commmunity Center 7:30 am

Car Cruise 9:30 amCar Show After Parade

Car Cruise ‘n Show

“You have to love a nation that celebrates its independence every July 4, not with a parade of guns, tanks and soldiers who file by the White House in a show of strength and muscle, but with family picnics where kids play, the potato salad gets iffy, and the flies die from happiness. You may think you have overeaten, but it’s patriotism.”

– Erma Bombeck

for your enjoyment. These cars are owned and driven by local people….maybe your neighbor! Watch for the different marquees from every era that are no longer in production. Packard, Studebaker, DeTamasso, MG, Plymouth, Edsel, Auburn, and Sunbeam are just a few to watch for.

Again this year, the cars will stop at the Centennial Community Center parking lot for the Car Show. So after viewing the parade come over and walk alongside the wide variety of cars on display. The cars will remain at this location until at least 2:30 pm so you can stop by and talk to the owners and admire their cars. Members of the host club, Valle Del Sur, Antique Automobile Club of America, will be present to answer questions about any classic cars.

Sal’s 1941 Chevrolet Master Deluxe 2 Door Coupe

Kathy’s 1966 Ford Mustang Convertible

Between 1 pm and 2 pm the sponsors of the Cruise ‘n Show will be making their choice of the cars they want to give an Award of Excellence. The awards will be presented at 2:30 pm with a Best of Show awarded by the votes of the sponsors.

If you have a pre-1986 car or truck that you would like to enter in this event you can download an entry form atmh-freedomfest.com in the Cruise ‘n Show section. Early registration is recommended as we are limited to 125 cars and will sell out. We may not have space on the day of the event. All entrants will receive two Beach Hut Deli sandwiches and two Patti’s Perfect Pantry cookies.

So, get to your place on the parade route early to view the cars and help celebrate the 4th of July with the car owners.



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Sunday, July 3rd

Patriotic Sing Morgan Hill Community CenterE. Dunne and Monterey Road

6:00 - 7:00 pmPatriotic Musical

(performed by local students)

Family Street Dance Downtown Morgan HillMonterey Road between Main

Street and Dunne Avenue

7:00 – 7:05 pmHonor Color Guard of Gilroy

7:05 – 7:20 pmNational Anthem

7:20 – 8:00 pmAngeline Madriaga Brooklyn Anderson

8:00 – 8:15 pmPatriotic Singers

8:30 – 10:30 pmHack Jammers

Monday, July 4th

Freedom Fest Fireworks ShowMorgan Hill Sports Complex Condit Road between E.Dunne and Tennant Avenues

6:00 – 7:30 pmCountry Cougar

8:30 pmKaren Crane & The Patriotic Singers

9:00 pm to Close The Usual Suspects

The 2016 Freedom Fest Celebration will feature lots of great live music throughout the two days of events

in Morgan Hill. The music always begins at 6pm on July 3rd with the patriotic Musical, featuring songs of our country sung by the children of the community. Led by Musical Director, Karen Crane, local schoolchildren of all ages will be singing songs of our country and paying tribute to out active military and veterans. This event will be held at the Morgan Hill Downtown Amphitheater.

The 2016 Family Street Dance is back at its traditional location on Monterey Road in downtown Morgan Hill. The music will begin on July 3rd at 7 pm with a salute to our veterans from the VFW Post 6309, and the National Anthem performed by Ange-line Madriaga, a local 14 year old who will be a freshman at Ann Sobrato High School this Fall. She will also sing the National Anthem at the beginning of the 5K Walk/Run and the Fireworks show as well! The Patriotic Sing participants will return for a cameo appearance and The Hack Jammers will be the highlight, with their high-energy party rock and funk music from 80’s tunes to contemporary hits. One of the South Bay’s most popular bands, they future popular songs from ZZ top, Stevie Wonder, The Rolling Stones, Tom Petty, Bruno Mars, Maroon 5, and many more.

This year’s Fireworks Show will begin at 5pm on the 4th and will be held for the 4th year at the Morgan Hill Sports Center on Condit Road between Tennant and Dunne Avenues. We are excited to provide some great musical acts to help you celebrate I ndependence Day!

The show will start at 6 pm with the Country Cougars playing a mix of new country – hits from hot artists such as Little Big Town, Miranda Lambert, and Kacey Musgraves to country classics from legends

Live Music

such as Johnny Cash and Patsy Cline that will appease just about any audience.

Karen Crane and The Patriotic Singers will be making a return appearance at 8:30 pm, and will give everyone a chance to catch a glimpse of the wonderful program that they performed at the Patriotic Sing to kick-off the celebration.

Closing out the show will be The Usual Suspects, who have performed each of the past 20 years as part of the Morgan Hill Freedom Fest Celebrations alternating between the Family Street Dance and the Fireworks Show. They are a favorite for us with their classic rock sounds, where they feature everything from Allman Brothers, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Santana, U2, Van Halen, AC/DC, and so much more.

The 2016 Freedom Fest Celebration will feature great live music throughout the two days

of events in Morgan Hill.

Brooklyn Anderson



Country Cougars

Hack Jammers

Usual Suspects

Angeline Madriaga


Theresa Leartist • photographer

[email protected]

(408) 206-4480

Senior Portraits • Family PortraitsInfants and children

Moggia EventsContact: [email protected]

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For over the past 21 years, one of Morgan Hill’s most popular Independence day events has been

the downtown street dance on the evening of July 3rd. This year, the dance will remain at the downtown location, and the main stage will be located at Third Street and Monterey Road. The dance starts after the Patriotic Sing, which will be held at Morgan Hill’s Downtown Amphitheater, and for many people, it marks the beginning of Morgan Hill’s Downtown 4th of July celebrations. Join us for a fun-filled evening of live music and dancing, food and drinks.

Morgan Hill residents are fortunate to enjoy freedom, amber waves of grain, fruited plains, and an Independent Day celebration that has taken place since 1876. Weather it’s hearing “The Stars and Stripes Forever” while watching the fireworks, or turning up the radio during the traditional family BBQ, music is an essential part of how Americans celebrate Independence Day. With this year’s “Home Sweet Home” theme in mind, we might pay extra attention to the lyrics of the songs that pay tribute to our beautiful country. Songs

Sunday, July 3rd 7:00 - 10:30 pm

Family Street Dance

MAIN STAGE SCHEDULE(Main Stage at Third Street)

7:00 – 7:05 pmHonor Color Guard of Gilroy

7:05 – 7:20 pmNational Anthem

7:20 – 8:00 pm Angelina Madriaga / Brooklyn Anderson

8:00 – 8:15 pm Patriotic Singers

8:30 – 10:30 pmHack Jammers

DJ DANCE STAGE (Second Street & Monterey Road)

7:30 – 10:30 pm DJ & Dance

like America the Beautiful, This Land is Your Land, and God Bless America, describe the beauty and freedoms that we are so privileged to enjoy.

For the past 20 years, the Family Street Dance chairman and Morgan Hill’s man of the year, Dennis Dal Poggetto, along with co-chairs Manny and Steve Padilla, have organized this fantastic event. Kimberlee Boggiano, supported by PD Morales and James Uthes, is the overall volunteer coordinator for 50-60 volunteers. It takes approximately 25 logistics volunteers to pull this complicated and amazing event together for our enjoyment.

There are beer and wine tents where beverages are available for purchase. Wine will be provided by some of our wonder-ful local wineries including Guglielmo, our main wine sponsor. We’d like to say a special ‘thank you’ to Sal Calisi of Odeum Resturant for his continued support of our VIP tent. Make sure you stop in for lunch or dinner at Odeum Resturant and enjoy their delicious food year round. Our VIP tent concierge is Brittany Sherman, who generously takes care of all of our VIP Sponsors and is responsible for all of the


fun going on in the VIP tent. The beer and wine sales is one of

our limited fundraising opportunities to support the free fireworks. So please help us support this event- buy beverages and drinks responsibility!

Please make sure to check out this year’s gourmet food vendors. Quick Dog, Rice Rocket, 3 brothers Kitchen, Scoops, and Chutney will be retuning with their mouth-watering delights. New to the Family Street Dance will be Kona Ice, Super Churros Man, Jaden’s Kettle Corn & Roasted Peanuts, and Big Ed’s Buzzard BBQ, ready to tickle your taste buds. A big special thanks to Bill Carlson, our food vendor chairperson, for making sure we don’t go hungry.

This year’s Family Street Dance begins at 7 PM with a salute to our veterans from the VFW Post 6309, American Legion 217 Honor Color Guard of Gilroy, organized by Robert Armendariz. He and his color guard troop from Gilroy stand at attention while 14 year old Angeline Madriaga singes the national anthem at the Third Street stage. They then will perform bugle salute to our fallen soldiers. Please join us as we honor our military.

Angeline will be an upcoming freshman at Ann Sobrato High School in Morgan Hill, and returns for the 4th year in a row to sing the national anthem. Singing has always been her first love, but she also shares her gift by being a part of the St. Catharine Church choir every Sunday. Angeline’s other hobbies include acting on stage and playing basketball. She is overjoyed to be a part of the Morgan Hill Independence Day celebration again. The Patriotic Sing participants will also return for a cameo appearance and The Hack Jammers will highlight the 2016 Family Street Dance with their high-energy party rock and funk music from 80’s tunes to contemporary hits. One of the South Bay’s most popular bands, they future popular songs from ZZ top, Stevie Wonder, The Rolling stones, Tom Petty, Bruno Mars, Maroon 5, and many more.

The Morgan Hill Freedom Fest committee thanks you for your continued support and wishes you a fun-filled, safe and rocken’ weekend.

The 28th Annual Patriotic Sing Sunday July 3rd at 6 pm at the Morgan Hill Amphitheater (Corner of Dunne & Monterey).

• Please do not place chairs along the street median for the parade until 12:01 am on the 4th.

• We cannot be responsible for any chairs on the street median strip. We anticipate 4,000 people attending the Family Street Dance so please wait until after the event to set up chairs. Downtown is closed to traffic at noon July 3rd for the Family Street Dance.

• Lost & Found (including children) is in a volunteer tent at Third Street and Monterey Road.

• We encourage you to ride your bike and lock it up at the designated rack locations provided. Security will be wearing yellow vests.

P DENNIS DAL POGGETTO Family Street Dance Chair

MANNY PADILLA Family Street Dance Ço-Chair

Am�ica MY HOME SWEET HOMEPlease Help


Dj E-POKI™ (New Life from Scratch)

He is a Professional Dj, member and alumni of “SCRATCH DJ ACADEMY, Los Angeles CA.” He has performed live as a Dj in festivals, cruises, weddings, birthdays, clubs, bars and private parties. He has an ear for quality sound and eyes for reading the crowed which allows him to know what the people want. His passion for music started at a very young age from his native country of Tonga. He love to Dj and make people happy, and being able to perform at any event anywhere in the world is the best thing ever.


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Monday, July 4Splash 6-10 pm

Morgan Hill Dennis Kennedy Aquatics Center16200 Condit Road

Fireworks At DarkOutdoor Sports Center

Condit between Tennant & E. Dunne Avenues

Fireworks With a Splash


Fireworks seem to be the highlight of most people’s memories of the 4th of July. This year’s Fireworks Show will surely be

a highlight for many of our communities’ children as it is shaping up to be one the best ever. We have partnered with the Morgan Hill Aquatic Foundation to add their Family Fun Night to our Fireworks on the Green thus creating Fireworks With a Splash.

Fireworks on The Green will once again be at the Morgan Hill Outdoor Sports Center, 16500 Condit Road, located between Tennant and E. Dunne Avenues. Gates will open at 4pm so you can come on in and set up a good viewing spot for the fireworks, which will begin around 9:30pm. Bring a picnic basket if you’d like, and buy beer, soft drinks, and other beverages on the premises. There will be many food vendors such Champions Bistro, Java2You, El Burrito Crazy, Cal Coast Kettle Corn, Kona Ice and more. Please do not bring any bottles onto the premises.

The show will start at 6pm with the Country Cougars playing a mix of new country hits from hot artists such as Little Big Town, Miranda Lambert, and Kacey Musgraves to country classics from legends such as Johnny Cash and Patsy Cline that will appease just about any audience.

P JEFF DIXON Fireworks Chair

P DANEAN SMITH Aquatic Foundation President

Starting around 7 pm our featured band, The Usual Suspects come to the stage. They have

performed each of the past 20 years as part of the Morgan Hill Freedom Fest

Celebrations alternating between the Family Street Dance and the Fireworks Show. They are a favorite for us with their classic rock sounds, where they feature everything from Allman Brothers, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Santana, U2, Van

Halen, AC/DC, and so much more. They will be entertaining you until

its dark enough to see the fireworks.You will also enjoy an encore

performance from Karen Crane and The Patriotic Singers if you missed that the night

before. The turf fields will be open for soccer and flag football fun too. Of course, don’t forget to look into the Family Fun Night right next door at the Aquatics Center.

The entire fireworks extravaganza and entertainment is brought to you at no cost to attendees. Please consider helping with the show by making a contribution to our donation boxes or one of our IDC Volunteers as you enjoy the show.

Entrance is free. However, parking is $10, so you may want to carpool to the event!

F ireworks by the Pool at the Morgan Hill Dennis Kennedy Aquatics Center is rapidly becoming one

of Morgan Hill’s must go to events for the Fourth of July. Formerly known as “Family Fun Night”, it is a great way to enjoy two of the premier public facilities in Morgan Hill at the same time - the Outdoor Sports Complex and the Aquatics Center.

Bring the family and cool off at the Aquatics Center! Before the sun sets, grab a chair on the pool deck, buy raffle tickets and enjoy the fun while we play prize winning games with the kids!

When the sun goes down, sit back and watch allthe firework display in action at the OutdoorSports Complex right there by the poolside. Whilefood cannot be brought into the facility, there isdelicious food available for purchase at Azteca Grill on-site.There are games, music and plenty of fun to be hadon the water slides and kiddie pools. The fun starts at 6 pm and goes until after the fireworks are over. Enjoy the fireworks while taking advantage of all the amenities the Aquatics Center has to offer.

Family Fun Night is sponsored by the Morgan Hill Aquatic Foundation, which

is a local non-profit 501(c)3, dedicated to aquatic programs in our Morgan Hill community. The Morgan Hill Aquatic Foundation is partnering with the Morgan Hill Freedom Fest for the first time this year to provide a combination of events your family will cherish.Tickets are required and are

available in advance at MorganHillAquaticFoundation.org,

CRC or morganhillfreedomfest.org. There may be limited tickets available at

the event, but to make sure you get to attend, it is recommended you purchase your tickets early to ensure a

spot by the pool. Parking is available for a fee and fills up rapidly, so be sure to get your spot early. Plan on making this a Fourth to remember – see you at the pool!


In childhood the daylight always fails too soon—except when there are going to be fireworks; and then the sun dawdles intolerably on the threshold like a tedious guest.

~ Jan Struther, Mrs. Miniver, 1930s

When the sun goes down, sit back and watch the firework display at the Morgan Hill Dennis Kennedy Aquatics Center Outdoor Sports Complex, POOLSIDE.

Morgan Hill Aquatic Foundation brings a Splash to popular Fireworks On The Green


The Morgan Hill Aquatic Foundation presents

July 4thJuly 4th

July 4thJuly 4thJuly 4th

Monday, July 4 • 6-10pm

$20 adult • $5 children 12 & underFree 2 & under

Purchase tickets or donate to theDennis Kennedy Memorial Fund at

www.MorganHillAquaticFoundation.org

Fireworks are provided by the Morgan Hill Freedom Fest

PO Box 1894, Morgan Hill CA 95038

The goal of the Morgan Hill Aquatic Foundation is to support aquatic programs in the Morgan Hill Community

Family Fun Nightat the Aquatics Center

Family Fun Nightat the Aquatics CenterWhen the sun goes down,

sit back and watch the firework display at the Morgan Hill Dennis Kennedy Aquatics Center Outdoor Sports Complex, POOLSIDE.



Morgan Hill Life proudly celebrates the Fourth of July and our American legacy of liberty. We honor all the people who have helped to preserve our community's quality of life including those who have served and are serving in our Armed Forces.

Visit us at MorganHillLife.com or call 408-410-4782

Your Quality-of-Life News Source

ThomasJefferson

“Our liberty depends on the freedom of the press...”


Moggia Events

[email protected]

Visit our page:MoggiaEvents.com

1.408.355.5622

Check us out on Facebook: MoggiaEvents


YOU’RE GONNA WANT TO USE TWO HANDS.

©2016 Jack in the Box Inc.

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The early American settlers of the area now known as

Morgan Hill probably celebrated the Fourth of July in

the 1840’s when some of the first U.S. arrivals settled

here. We say “probably,” because their letters to family and

friends “back in the States” have not yet been located to

document their celebrations.

It is a certainty that there was a great celebration on July

4th, 1851 as California had been accepted as one of the States

in the United States of America the previous September.

It is documented in an interview with one of the early

settlers that the town had the greatest celebration when the

United States of America had its 100th Anniversary

(July 4th, 1876).

He said there was a Parade down Monterey Road, a Base-

ball game, a Town Picnic, Foot Races for the boys and young

men, and Grand Fireworks when it got dark.

Another documented story is that the parents were

working overtime during World War Two and hadn’t planned

for a Parade, and so the kids in town got together and

(with a little help from the local constable) held their own

decorated Bikes, Wagons and Flags Parade!

In the first part of the 20th Century, the town staff of the

newly incorporated Town of Morgan Hill helped organize the

Fourth activities. In the sixties and seventies, the Morgan Hill

Chamber of Commerce did a fine job producing a full day of

activities including Community Picnics, Diaper Derbies, Music

at Galvan Park/the Friendly Inn, and a some Great Parades.

They ended the day with Fireworks shot from the athletic

field at Live Oak High School across Hale Avenue (with the

volunteer fire department standing by!)

The Chamber relinquished the events to the new all

volunteer organization, Independence Day Celebrations,

Inc.(I.D.C.), in 1982. This wonderful organization of 100%

volunteers has been planning and operating all the six

Fourth of July events to the present time.

In addition to entertaining the community, the Family

Bike Ride, the Car Cruise ‘n Show, the 5K Race/Walk, the

Golf Tournament, and the Street Dance were charged with

helping to earn funds to operate the core events: the Fire-

works, the Parade, and the Children’s Patriotic Sing.

Unfortunately, the Bike Ride, Community Picnic, and Golf

Tournament cost more to operate than they earned, so these

Celebrating Our PastSince 1875


Celebrating Our Past

Everyone loves a parade especially one that honors

the birthday of the United States of America. The early settlers

of Burnett Township decided in 1876 that centennial festivities

were in order, so 140 years ago a celebration was organized

and that tradition has continued without interruption to this day.

Our freedoms were won by the heroic effort of a great many

men and women during the Revolutionary War. Citizens of the

United States pause each year to express our gratitude for the

sacrifices made by prior generations and to say thank you to

our veterans and our active military personnel for their service.

The young state of California, the 31st star on our flag, was

growing by leaps and bounds 1876, so full of energy and

potential. We do not know exactly in what manner those first

celebrations took place prior to the incorporation of Morgan

Hill. Maybe it was a gathering at the old Burnett School or a

BBQ at Dan Murphy’s place in San Martin. Old pictures from

the late 1800’s and early 1900’s suggest a parade with horse

drawn floats and bicyclists eager to lead out the crowd and

race their friends. Often featured were young women dressed

as “Miss California,” “Miss Liberty,” and the “California Bear.”

Advertisements for Morgan Hill’s 4th of July proclaimed a

“Street Parade,” “Baseball and Races,” “Literary Exercises and

an Oration” — all followed by a “Free BBQ with Music by the

Morgan Hill Band.”

P BY MIKE MONROE Morgan Hill Historical Society

P BY BOB & MAUREEN HUNT Parade Chair(s) Since 1996

1900 The Parade at Main and Del Monte

1894 Parade Float Ready To Go

interesting events had to be discontinued.

The Fourth of July events could not happen in the grand

style they are today without the financial donations, large and

small of many community members who send in checks, drop

money in donation jars at local businesses, and the greatly

appreciated Sponsorship of many community minded local

Businesses.

This July 4th, 2016, will be the 141st documented Parade and

Fireworks in Morgan Hill. The I.D.C. Freedom Fest members are


thankful of the community support, business and individual,

which has allowed them to present these events.

The history of the early Morgan Hill Independence Day

celebrations was obtained from microfilmed copies of the early

Morgan Hill newspaper and from interviews with early settlers.

The first newspaper in Burnett Township, which later was

incorporated as the town of Morgan Hill, opened in 1894 as

the Morgan Hill Sun-Times. Copies are available in the micro -

film section of the Morgan Hill County Library.


SERVING THE MORGAN HILL AREA SINCE 1989 • DAVID A. PERRY, OWNER

DP ConstructionRevisedSize.pdf 1 5/24/16 1:49 PM

24 E First Street • Morgan Hill • 408.782.7550


WE THANK YOU MORGAN HILLFOR YOUR CONTINUED SUPPORT; YOU ARE THE REASON FOR OUR SUCCESS!

ROYAL CLOTHIERS 17375 Monterey Road 408.778.3469


IDC would like to thank all of our sponsors for supporting the 2016 Morgan Hill Freedom Fest. Your generous contributions not only make our Independence Day celebration and events possible,

they make them shine above the rest. We truly appreciate your continual support and commitment to both IDC and our community. Thank you!

STAR SPANGLED BANNER

Commonwealth Central Credit UnionThe City of Morgan Hill

AMERICA THE BEAUTIFUL

Johnson Lumber and Garden CenterMorgan Hill Youth Sports Alliance, Inc.Paramit Corporation.STARS AND STRIPES

IPC Publishing/GMH TodayCentral Coast Restaurants — Jack in the BoxPG&E

FREEEDOM

Beach Hut DeliChristopher RanchCochran StorageFord Store Morgan Hill, TheLadera GrillLeal Vineyards, Inc.Morgan Hill LifeMorgan Hill TimesOdeum Silicon Valley Veterinary SpecialistsSmith Commercial Management, Inc.Private Spring Water

CELEBRATE AMERICA

AnritsuChase VPColdwell BankersIntero Jet ElectricMorgan Hill Animal HospitalSeeMo Cars (aka SM-Pg.)Vila Monte

LIBERTY

Allstate InsuranceBank of the WestDP ConstructionGloss Beauty LoungeGryphon Financial GroupGuglielmo Winery

LIBERTY

GVA CafeHoliday Inn ExpressJimmy P’s PizzeriaKenneth Rodrigues & Partners, Inc.Kent ConstructionsLusamerica FishMake It MineMaurizio’s Cucina ItalianaMorgan Hill Wine Shop and Cigar LoungeMount Madona SchoolPatti’s Perfect PantryRecology South ValleyRosy’s at the BeachTechnology Credit Union (TCU)Tencate Advanced CompositesThe GrangeUesugi FarmsWeston-Miles ArchitectsM & H Tavern All Sensors

INDEPENDENCE

Art GonzalesAurum Consulting EngineersBarrios UpholsteryBook SmartCornerstone Earth Group, Inc.Cornerstone EngineeringDonna and Don Cowan, Intero Real EstateFred’s European-Asian AutoFritter & SchultzGolden Eagle MortgageKawamoto, Weil & Co. KBAY Radio 84.5 FMLiberty BankLive Oak Veterinary HospitalMission BellMr. FalafelMurphys MechantileNorCal Kenwoth - Morgan HillRosso’s FurnitureSMP Tech, IncTeresa Le, PhotographyThinker Toys

PATRIOT

Aida Pisano, Coldwell BankersAPM Custom EnginesAuto Magic ProfessionalsBill Jacobson TruckingBruce & Judy Henry, Coldwell BankersCall My Ride Morgan HillCarmen Jones, Coldwell BankersChristine Wheeler,Coldwell BankersCindy Dominguez, Coldwell BankersCindy Miller, Coldwell BankersDana DittmoreDavid L. Bandy, CPN Debbie Adamo, Coldwell BankersGardner Equity Group, Greg and Lisa GardnerGarn Chan, DDSGeorge’s Auto Service & TransmissionGrant’s GarageGreg and Lisa Gardner, Coldwell BankersJanette Barsanti, Coldwell BankersJoanne McPhee, Coldwell BankersJudy Yeager, Coldwell BankersKeriann Agresta, Coldwell BankersLawson’s BakersLee Schmidt, Realty WorldLicari Manufacturing / BrunshwilerLisa Blagof, Coldwell BankersLisa Faria, Coldwell BankersLori LoBue, Coldwell BankersMainstream-It.comMarty’s Chop ShopMary Surber, Coldwell BankersMH EngineeringMichael Kuhn, Coldwell BankersMoggia EventsMy PizzaNina Clymer, Coldwell BankersOn The Road AgainPonzini Community Garage, Inc.Radulescu EngineersRoadrunner Driving SchoolRoyal ClothiersShannon Sloan, Coldwell BankersTiffany Doyle, Coldwell BankersToni Whedon, Coldwell BankersTop Notch Tunes

Thank You Sponsors!Am�ica MY HOME SWEET HOME


Premier Sponsor of the Morgan Hill Freedom Fest

Every big idea begins with a dream. Some of the biggest ideas of all–those that have improved the way the world works and plays using computer technology — were dreamed-up in garages right here in Santa Clara County. Did you know that CommonWealth Central Credit Union was also born in a local garage?

In December 1958, Frank and Grace Coombs converted their garage into the first branch of what is now CommonWealth. The credit union operated in that space for some 13 years. Based on the principles of trust, responsibility and local pride, CommonWealth was established to help fellow members-primarily working-class families in the Santa Clara community-reach their financial goals. Over the past half-century, our principles have remained unchanged.

Today, CommonWealth offers a full range of financial services available at four local branch locations and convenient no-fee access at any CO-OP ATM.

Whether your dreams involve remodeling your home, restoring a muscle car or putting a new vehicle in your garage, CommonWealth is here to help. As a member-owned credit union entering its 50th year in business, trust us to support your financial needs with competitive loans and savings products and genuine interest in your financial well-being. Please visit us at: wealthcu.org/



Morgan Hill remains one of the very few cities in the entire Bay Area that continues to have all day events

surrounding the 4th of July. Our events this year include the Patriotic Sing, Family Street Dance, Freedom Run, Parade, Car Cruise n’ Show and a spectacular fireworks and entertainment show.

Our event is truly a hometown celebration dedicated to preserving our national and local heritage and most important, celebrating our freedom as citizens of the United States of America. We are the largest annual event in Morgan Hill, put on entirely by volunteers. The award-winning parade alone is the

largest privately organized parade in Northern California and the official 4th of July Parade of Santa Clara County.

It takes over $150,000 and over 500 volunteers each year to organize and produce the entire Independence Day celebration. We rely entirely on the support of patriotic citizens like you and local businesses and corporations to fund the festivities.

Our community has been very generous in the past. Please help us continue our patriotic Morgan Hill July 4th tradition by taking a moment to send your contribution today. Any and all donations are welcome.

Thank you and see you at the celebrations!

How You Can HelpIndependence Day Celebrations Inc.

501c(3) non-profit organization.Tax ID # 45-0970609

You can make your donation to “Independence Day Celebrations” by mailing a check or visiting our website to donate via PayPal.

Make checks payable to: Independence Day Celebrations

Mail to: IDC Donations, P.O. Box 1776, Morgan Hill, CA 95038



7160 Santa Teresa Blvd., San Jose • 408.649.7070 • 408.649.7072 fax • www.svvspets.net

PET EMERGENCY? CALL US RIGHT AWAY!SERVICES

Emergency CareInternal Medicine

Oncology / Cancer CareSurgery

HospitalizationPharmacy

24 Hour Emergency Care and Specialty Services

…here when you need us

MRI and CT Scanner available

Silicon Valley Veterinary Specialists is a 24-hour veterinary emergency and specialty hospital serving San Jose and the neighboring communities. The veterinarians and specialists at SVVS work closely with primary care veterinarians to ensure the specialized care we provide compliments the wellness provided by family veterinarians.

Specialty care in veterinary medicine is provided by board certifi ed specialists in respective fi elds such as internal medicine, neurology, oncology, pathology, radiology and surgery. Our 24-hour hospital is equipped with state of the art equipment and we strive to serve each of our patients with the highest standard of care available in veterinary medicine.

Dr. Ravi Dhaliwal-OncologyDr. Michael Moore-Internal MedicineDr. Carrie Jurney-NeurologyDr. Nicole Pacheco-EmergencyDr. Michael L. Harrington-Neurology

Dr. Jennifer Anderson-EmergencyDr. Roger Repp-EmergencyDr. Beau Bedell-EmergencyDr. Amalia Zacher-Dentistry



408. 779.7325 • 16150 Monterey Street • Morgan Hill


I Am An American I am an American.

That’s the way most of us put it, just matter of factually.

They are plain words, those four,

You could write them on a thumbnail,

Or you could sweep them clear across this bright autumn sky.

But remember too that they are more than words.

They are a way of life.

So whenever you speak them, speak them firmly;

Speak them proudly; speak them gratefully.

I Am An American.

(Anonymous)

We hope you enjoy the 2016

The Independence Day Celebration (IDC) Committee


Congratulation IDC for another amazing 4th of July Celebration.


Congratulation IDC for another amazing 4th of July Celebration.


Documents

Freedom Fest 2016