Monthly Archives: July 2024

by Larry Janezich

Posted July 4, 2024

This year’s Barracks Row July 4th Parade was heavily weighted in favor of politicians and civic organizations, giving residents an opportunity to applaud their services to the community. The Mayor, the Marine Band, and the South American dance troupes which have been parade reglulars were otherwise engaged this year, but the crowd was enthusiastic and appreciative.

MPD Chief of Police Pamela Smith and MPD First District Commander Colin Hall led the parade.

City Council Chair and Capitol Hill Resident Phil Mendelson showed up.

The parade brought out a crowd of CM Charles Allen supporters…

… here’s Allen working the crowd.

ANC6B marched in the parade – for the first time in memory. L-R: Commissioners Casey Durkit, Frank D’Andrea, 6B Chair Edward Ryder, and Commissioner David Sobelsohn.

At-Large Councilmember Robert C. White, Jr. has been a regular participant, and was back this year.

DC Attorney General Brian Schwalb marched in casual attire.

The Eastern High School band continued their long tradition of participating…

…and the Blue and White Marching Machine never fails to please.

The parade’s largest contingent represented Capitol Hill Village – a civic group that seldom gets credit for the influence they wield as a community organization.

The Capitol Hill BID – The Men and Women in Blue – was there. That’s Founder and President Patty Brosmer on the left.

Guerrilla Gardners – founded by Jim Guckert (waving) – continues to beautify unused or untended spaces across Capitol Hill. Here’s a link to the organization’s website – they are always looking for volunteers. https://guerrillagardenersdc.org/

And finally, the retail business community, as represented by Hill’s Kitchen Leah Daniels, and behind, Kathleen Donahue of Labyrinth Puzzles & Games.

Following the parade, Barracks Row MainStreet organized an effort to break the Guinness World Record for the largest human image of an ice cream cone on the 700 block of D Street, SE.  CHC will report on how that went tomorrow.