Parade to honor 'First Responders'

For Hesperia Kiwanis Club member Becky Otwell, organizing the annual Hesperia Days Parade was a labor of love she often shared with park board member Richard Lupton. But soon after last year’s event, Lupton — who for years had battled chronic obstructive pulmonary disease — died at the age of 63.

So now Otwell will go on without him.

“I miss him,” Otwell said.

Fittingly, parade chair Otwell and her committee decided to honor retired firefighter Lupton’s ilk — firefighters, police, paramedics and others who protect and serve. “First Responders” will be honored during the parade at 9 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 18. The parade travels on Main Street from I Avenue west to E Avenue.

“We can’t thank them enough,”Otwell said.

The event will feature a flyover by the San Bernardino County Sheriff Department’s 40-King helicopter and a large U.S. flag, which will be carried down Main Street. Parade grand marshals are Sheriff Deputy Chief (High Desert Division) John McMahon and Operation Chief of County Fire Tim Wessel.

Featured Kiwanians will include 2010 Hesperia Kiwanis president Roxanne Williams, 2010 president Karen Elgan, 2011 president, and 2010 Kiwanis Lt. Gov. Russ Kiner.

Like always, the Hesperia Days Parade celebrates hometown and the Hesperia community.

“Even though the community is growing in size, it’s wonderful to be able to have the freedom to put on the parade for the local residents,” Otwell said.

Parade entries are due by 5 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 11. Entry fee is $20. Entry forms are available online at hesperiaparks.com. The parade is sponsored by the Kiwanis Club of Hesperia and the Hesperia Recreation and Park District.

“It’s such a nominal fee to advertise your company,” added Beverly Williams, who also serves on the parade committee.

For additional parade entry information, call 760-956-2361.