UNIVERSITY NEWS | The 21st annual Westchester Fourth of July Parade returned with the bang of drums, the excited buzz of a crowd of about 2,500, and all the festive noise of a proper parade along Loyola Boulevard.
But perhaps a quieter moment was the most telling: Parade-goers lingered long afterward by the Loyola Marymount University gate, as if the pandemic separation could be cured by staying together.
“Everyone was very happy to be reunited,” said Christina Davis, CEO of the LAX Coastal Chamber of Commerce. “It was heartwarming and filled my soul to be back with the residents of the community.”
LMU’s contingent, including men’s and women’s basketball team players, the Spirit Squad, KXLU staff members and other LMU staff, handed out about 400 bags of university material, T-shirts and temporary Lion tattoos. “We are proud to be co-sponsor of the event,” said Fred Puza, LMU’s associate director of community relations. “The university is a part of the fabric of the community, and this event gives us a chance to see so many of our neighbors.”
The 2021 edition of the parade did reflect some residual pandemic effects: the organizers had less time to prepare, and there were fewer floats and contingents for the 50-minute parade. “There were challenges, but fortunately all things lined up and we were happy to proceed in a safe manner,” said Davis.
“Taking part in this year’s parade was important for us,” added Puza. “The theme, ‘Our National Treasures,’ resonates with our professors, students, and alumni. And we wanted to be there to thank all the frontline workers, all the health care professionals who got us through the pandemic and who are continuing to help us recover from its consequences.”
