Red, White and Blue Galore in South End Parade

 By Lesley Graham The south end of Ocean City came alive Fourth of July morning as hundreds of people lined Central Avenue to watch the participants of the annual holiday parade stroll by in the hot summer sun.  Onlookers enjoyed the sights and sounds of the parade from the comfort of their porches and beach chairs lining the streets. The Ocean City police and fire departments also joined in on the fun -- lights, sirens and all.  The parade included bicyclists, walkers, cars and more as they traveled from 40th Street to the playground on the corner of 53rd Street and Haven Avenue. There was even a dog in a stroller sporting its patriotic pride.  This tribute to the Ocean City Beach Patrol includes a miniature lifeguard stand. Miss Ocean City and Little Miss Ocean City led the way of cars, followed by the contestants for Miss Night in Venice. Appearances were also made by Mr. Mature America, the reigning Miss Night in Venice and others.  Participants got creative in their patriotic garb with everything from streamers to sparkles, sunglasses and sneakers. Families decked out their strollers and wagons in red, white and blue, while other groups created elaborately themed floats ranging from the Ocean City Beach Patrol to “Game of Thrones.”  The youngest riders showed little signs of slowing down in the heat, pedaling with smiles and the stars and stripes. There were tutus that sparkled and helmets adorned with flags, as bicyclists rode past spectators waving in the streets.  Flag-waving Phillies fans are among the marchers in the colorful procession. Even the onlookers got in on the red, white and blue action with outfits and accessories that rang loud with the American spirit.      Even though it was a hot Fourth of July, many people in the south end of Ocean City enjoyed the longstanding tradition of the parade, which is sponsored by the South Ocean City Improvement Association. A youngster decked out in red, white and blue cruises down the street on his tricycle.