From the front page of the current Lakewood Observer.
Lakewood’s Jim Anderson To Serve As Grand Marshal Of The Lakewood Fourth Of July Parade
by Melissa Garrett
Lakewood Mayor Mike Summers has announced that life-long Lakewood resident James R. Anderson will serve as the Grand Marshal for the City’s Fourth of July parade. The parade is scheduled to step off on Friday, July 4, 2014 at 10 a.m. on Lake Avenue at Kenneth Drive and conclude at Lakewood Park.
Jim Anderson is a life-long Lakewood resident. He grew up on Newman Avenue and is a 1946 graduate of Lakewood High School. Jim has served as an employee of the City of Lakewood for 63 years. He joined the Lakewood Fire Department on July 1, 1951 and retired with over 33 years of service. After his retirement, Jim became a Utility Inspector for the city until he took his current position at the information desk at City Hall. Jim greets visitors to City Hall and directs them to the proper location. In addition to his service with the City, Jim is a veteran having served in the United States Coast Guard. Jim also served seven years as the Recreation Commissioner and five years on the Softball Commission. In 1976, Jim was named Man of the Year by the Lakewood Recreation Department. Jim was also named Man of the Year by the VFW in 1976.
The importance of public service is something that seems to run in Jim’s family. His father, uncle and son all served with the Lakewood Fire Department. And his grandson is currently serving as Police Officer for Montville Township.
“We are pleased to honor Jim Anderson for his service and dedication to the City of Lakewood over the past 63 years,” said Mayor Summers. “If you have come to City Hall on Monday or Friday, you know Jim Anderson. He is the friendly, very helpful gentleman that greets you and gives you directions as you enter City Hall. Jim always has a smile and warm welcome for everyone. We are proud to have him serve as Grand Marshal of the Fourth of July Parade.”
Joining in the parade will be musical favorites, the Lakewood High School Ranger Marching Band, St. Edward High School Band, the Lochaber Pipe Band and Red Hackle Pipe Band.
After the parade, festivities will continue in Lakewood Park with games, food, activities and information provided by several of Lakewood’s community organizations. At 7 p.m., the Lakewood Project, Lakewood High School’s Youth Rock Orchestra, will perform at the Bandstand at Lakewood Park.
The Fourth of July will conclude with Lakewood’s annual fireworks extravaganza at approximately 9:45-10 p.m.
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