WORDS & PICTURES: Gabrielle Versmessen
April 7th marked the 75th De Soto Children’s Parade sponsored by the Early Learning Coalition of Manatee County (ELC). Children from all over gathered in Palmetto to watch a slew of handmade floats, performance acts, and conquistadors march down 10th Street to Sutton Park. The winning float for “Best Use of Theme” was designed by Palma Sola Elementary School.
It featured students performing real instruments on a stage! Palmetto Charter School won the “Most Imaginative” award, Freedom Elementary won the “Most Colorful” award, and the Bradenton Twirlers won the “Most Crowd Pleasing” award with their baton skills. These floats and performances were granted the opportunity to walk in the De Soto Grand Parade that was held on April 29th.
Judges for the floats were Amanda Horne, owner of Anna Maria Oyster Bar, Patrick McKenna of Riverhouse Reef and Grill, Jennifer Cox Lipsey of Cox Chevrolet/Mazda, and Leah Brown of Charter Communications.
Amongst those who participated in the parade were Learning is Fun Child Care Center, Jessie P. Miller Elementary, Freedom Elementary, Palmetto Charter School, Star Academy of Dance and Aerial Arts, Pressure House Academy, and more.
At the end of the parade, walkers and watchers gathered at Sutton Park for ELC’s Party in the Park. $620 of the proceeds Kona Ice made at the party was given back to the ELC. Partiers enjoyed informational resources and free prizes from organizations such as Step Up Suncoast, Manatee Library, Team Success, Safe Children Coalition, Parenting Matters, The Bishop, and more. Additionally, the ELC brought a preview of Block Fest and exercise dice from their CATCH program for children of all ages to enjoy.
