Edwards said this first year they are starting small, with the route beginning at the former Kroger parking lot on Chambersburg Road and ending at the Wayne High School parking lot, with the hope that the parade route will expand each year. “We want the parade to grow each year and eventually get bigger again,” she said.
The parade date is set for Monday evening, Sept. 27, kicking off spirit week, prior to the homecoming game for the Warriors. The community is invited to participate in the parade and the students have been actively recruiting for weeks.
“So far the YMCA, Good Samaritan, the local police and fire stations, and, of course, all of our sports teams and marching band are participating,” Edwards said. Participants may construct floats, ride in vehicles, and pass out key chains, candy, fliers or any other giveaways.
Cindy and Allen, also Wayne High School graduates, encouraged her to resurrect the parade. Wayne track coach, Mike Fernandez, who remembered the parades from his time as a Wayne student, also encouraged the students. “Mr. Fernandez brought the parade idea to my attention,” Edwards said. “He thought it would be a good idea to bring back the parade and get our club involved,” Edwards said. “He knew I’d like the idea so he suggested it, and he is going to be our emcee.”
In addition to her duties on student council, Edwards plays varsity soccer and basketball, is a member of National Honor Society and a Warrior mentor. She plans to attend Slippery Rock University in Pennsylvania after graduation and either study nursing or athletic training.
With so many exciting things going on in her life, Edwards can’t say enough about what this parade means to her and the community of Huber Heights. “I think it’s important for the community because it gets everyone involved,” she said. “We are getting new schools and here’s something to get excited about and bring back the spirit we used to have.”
For more information or to get involved in the homecoming parade, call Brooke Edwards at (937) 681-2440.
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