By JOE BOCANEGRA
Special to the NEWS
Joe Bocanegra
It is parade season in the fair city of San Benito.
It has been said that one thing leads to another, and this time is no exception. Being a resident walker in the town, I have even participated in a few parades. They have been full of cheer, well-being, and loads of fun. As will this upcoming one will be, no doubt about that.
Of course, there have some parades in which were so tacky and tasteless, that I wondered why there would be one in the first place. I have yet to find one here in San Benito, and I’ll let you know if ever I do see one. I guess we’re just that amazing as to not have one.
Not to say that there have been tacky floats. Some have been flat-out bad, not to the point of bile trying to escape my mouth, but some have come close. But those kinds of things are few and far between.
As mentioned, I tend to walk around the crowds of the parades, often going to the preparation area, where the floats have yet to be released, where the bands are scattered around, where the folks are making sure everything is up to par. Then I walk on the other side and mingle with the crowds over there. I am sure I am not the only one who does this.
Right?
Anyone?
So, this year’s homecoming parade will also be welcoming the state-bound San Benito Mighty Greyhound Band home after competing Tuesday at the UIL State Marching Band Competition.
In fact, at this very moment on Tuesday, while I was writing these very lines, we were all eagerly anticipating word from those who traveled with the band to the Alamodome in San Antonio, where the band performed at the state contest, on how well they did. Trust me, folks. This was intensely more riveting than awaiting the victor of the Obama-Romney race. I did vote, by the way, in case you were wondering. I hope you all did as well.
But I digress. I am sure the band alone will be worth watching and – like the parades we have been having all these years – this year’s homecoming procession will be filled with excitement and wonder
I have to say that one of the most anticipated of attractions have not been the various floats of pomp and cheer or the interesting vendors that sell cupcakes and sodas, but instead the bands, with their smart uniforms and their flashing instruments blaring in the sunshine. That moment of anticipation as the opening cadence to the fight song kicks off renders you helpless, you have no choice but to cheer your heart out.
I do show off my spirit; I have worn purple and gold during my yearly walks around the homecoming parade, and usually shake hands with the team when I’m in the prep areas.
To be honest, I have yet to find a parade that was not under perfect conditions the first time. Last year’s rescheduling of the Christmas parade was a bit confusing, if I may be so bold to say. But then, I cannot remember a parade in which the sun shined that bright, the wind was that perfect, and the crowds were that thick.
So, fellow walkers of the sidewalk, I ask of you to come out this week for the homecoming parade on Thursday.
Cheer your heart out when your favorite band passes by and celebrate the Greyhounds as they pass by.
Lean back in your chairs, because I’m sure you have your preferred spot to camp out, enjoy the weather, and, most of all have fun!
Read this story in the Nov. 7 edition of the San Benito News, or subscribe to our E-Edition by clicking here.
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