The Morning Journal (Lorain, OH)
Riders brave heat for annual bike parade
Avon hosts annual patriotic bike parade
Eager riders braved the Independence Day heat for the third annual Great Avon Bike Parade.
The one-mile course began at the Avon Aquatic Facility at 36265 Detroit Road, and led by a police and fire escort concluded at University Hospitals Avon Health Center.
“The annual Avon bike parade, now in its third year, has quickly become a memorable tradition for our residents,” said Avon Council-at-Large member Tammy Holtzmeier, a founder and organizer. “The parade committee has done a wonderful job organizing this signature community event. Children will grow up having these fond, patriotic experiences right in their hometown.”
In welcoming participants and spectators Holtzmeier said the event truly invoked the spirit of the community.
Avon High School student Breanna Sprenger led the way as Parade Marshall. A Paralympic swimmer and member of Team USA, Sprenger is an American and Pan American record holder. A three-year veteran of the Bike Parade, Sprenger donned the yellow jersey leading the hundreds of participants on the route.
“It’s a family event and I think that Tammy Holtzmeier putting it together did a great job. It’s nice to see everyone come together to benefit the community,” said Mayor Bryan Jensen.
Jensen, while handing free swimming passes to Bike Parade participants, applauded the city’s police and fire departments in ensuring a safe and fun event where riders and spectators braved the heat.
“That’s a tribute to our safety forces. They play a big role in trying to keep everybody safe. We really are fortunate,” Jensen said.
“The Star Spangled Banner” was performed by Avon student Morgan Williams, and the Pledge of Allegiance was led by Vietnam veteran and community artist Kerry Barvincak and retired Avon police officer Janet Barvincak.
“The parade committee has done a wonderful job organizing this signature community event. Children will grow up having these fond, patriotic experiences right in their hometown.”
— Avon Council-at-Large member Tammy Holtzmeier