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50,000 cheer on the holiday

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By KEVIN BRADY

TBO.com

Published: July 8, 2009

Sweltering temperatures didn't stop thousands from turning out Saturday for Brandon's annual salute to Uncle Sam.
Early birds had already claimed the shady spots along Parsons Avenue by 8 a.m. for the Fourth of July parade, now in its 51st year. Shade or not, spectators came prepared with sunscreen, tents, water, umbrellas and soda. Super Soakers were the order of the day.

About 50,000 people turned out to watch the parade with Scout troops, veterans and military groups among those marching along Parsons Avenue and Robertson Street.

The parade was also a coming out party for Brandon's new mayor. The Community Roundtable announced the winner just before the parade with Connie Smaldone, a Realtor with South Shore Real Estate Group in Lithia, taking the honorary title. Candidates in the race host fundraisers for local charities of their choice. The candidate who raises the most money claims the honorary title.

"I was surprised but it feels great," said Smaldone as she rode in a convertible in the parade.

She plans to continue promoting and raising awareness for community charities during her term.

"That's really what this is all about."

Keyword: Brandon Parade, to see more than 200 photos from the celebration.

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