[0:00] [Music] [0:12] Well, welcome everybody to the Jamberee [0:15] Parade of 2025 [0:18] here in Columbia Heights, sponsored by [0:20] the Columbia Heights Lions. My name is [0:23] Andrew Maco. My cohort here on my side [0:26] is Howie Leathers. Howie, how are you [0:28] doing today? pretty good. What a [0:30] beautiful night for a parade, huh? It is [0:32] gorgeous in comparison to all the rain [0:33] that we've had the last couple days [0:35] here. This is a scent gift to us. So, [0:39] I'm super happy about all that. Say [0:42] Howie, how would you say the um events [0:46] that we have coming up? This jamboree [0:48] are kind of shaping up. Do you know [0:50] anything about those? Uh coming up [0:52] pretty good. And um what we've got going [0:54] on is um [0:58] we've got the carnival. Sure do. I know [1:01] that the carnival is going to midnight [1:02] tonight and on Saturday it's going to [1:04] midnight and uh we're going to about [1:06] 6:00 on Sunday. The Lions have a beer [1:09] garden down there. If you're ever [1:11] thirsty on these nice hot days, it's [1:13] perfect to do. Great place to make [1:15] friends or meet new people and and enjoy [1:18] yourself. Definitely. I'm very excited [1:21] too that we get to announce that this [1:23] year for the first time in a long time, [1:25] we actually have the AWF Wrestling [1:28] coming out to us. It's going to be right [1:30] outside the beer garden. It's going to [1:32] be a free event once you pay for [1:34] entrance into the jamboree. [1:37] So, I'm super excited about that. I [1:38] know. I've been waiting for that for a [1:40] long time to come up. Well, if you [1:42] haven't seen one of these wrestling [1:44] matches, you're missing something. And [1:47] we've we've had three of them now. and [1:50] uh sold out uh just about all of them [1:53] and people come and have a good time and [1:55] the kids enjoy it. So uh they'll be here [1:59] Saturday wrestling outside come rain or [2:02] shine I believe if the sun's not shining [2:05] we'll have mud wrestling. I like the way [2:08] you think. Speaking of rain or shine, we [2:12] got some colors that never fade. Here is [2:14] our color guard. Let's all take a moment [2:17] of silence in respect to our country's [2:20] flag. [2:25] [Music] [2:33] [Music] [2:44] [Music] [2:45] [Applause] [2:51] Perfect. [2:52] Coming up here, we have the Colia [2:55] Heights Fire Department. We got a [2:59] pancake breakfast also coming up on [3:01] Sunday from 9:00 a.m. to noon. It's [3:04] going to be a great time. If you've [3:05] never been there, it's all you can eat [3:07] pancakes. Real great value, real great [3:10] time. It's put on by the fire [3:12] department. That uh should be pretty [3:14] good. [3:17] We had the employee of the uh year. Yep. [3:21] We did have the employee of the year. [3:24] That was Diana Arn, a top value cashier [3:28] and a familiar face to the community [3:30] members for over 24 years. Diana's [3:33] dedication, outstanding service, and [3:35] commitment to her role have made a [3:36] lasting impact on Top Value operations [3:39] and the city. In a role that involves [3:42] daily interaction with hundreds of [3:44] community members, Diana's friendly [3:46] demeanor and care for others have made [3:48] her a favorite among customers. Regular [3:51] patrons often stop in and chat with [3:52] Diana, a testament to her ability to [3:55] create genuine connections with the [3:56] community. Through her interactions, [3:58] Diana drives profit sales for the city. [4:02] Last year alone, she handled over 52,000 [4:04] transactions totaling more than $1.3 [4:07] million in sales. That's remarkable. [4:12] It really speaks to the hard work that [4:14] she brings in. Second uh vehicle had the [4:18] mayor Amanda Marquez Simula. [4:24] We have our council members coming [4:26] through. Rachel James. [4:31] We also have uh Laurel Deni. [4:37] Oh, and here he comes himself, ladies [4:40] and gentlemen. Here is the Lions [4:42] president of 2024, Joe Mo. He's been a [4:46] Lion for over 15 years. He used to work [4:49] at ESNS. He's now retired and he's [4:53] instrumental in getting professional [4:55] wrestling here at the Lions Club. He's [4:57] very well known here throughout the [4:59] Northeast. And he's a heck of an [5:01] accordium player and also has been [5:04] entertaining people and folks for over [5:06] 50 years. And look at him. He kind of [5:08] reminds you of the big guy in red around [5:11] December time. That's right. He is also [5:14] known to play Santa. If you want to hire [5:16] him for any reason, give a call at [5:18] 7637891695. [5:21] You might see him in the community [5:23] somewhere. Truth. Don't forget his [5:25] driver is the vice president Nelson [5:27] Moore. He is a veteran, a family man, [5:30] and an overall great guy to be around. A [5:33] great gentleman. [5:35] Up next, we have the [5:40] Sorry, it gets me emotional. Brian [5:42] Clerkin, a fellow member of the Lions, [5:46] sadly passed away this past year on [5:48] November 30th of 2024. We are paying [5:51] homage to the Clerkin family with them [5:54] being in the uh in the parade here. We [5:57] got Shawn and Judy. We have Patricia Joe [6:00] and Shawn Jr. honoring their brother [6:03] Brian Clerkin. They're also the owners [6:05] of Tasty Pizza. They're driving Brian's [6:09] Corvette through. Yeah, they're the uh [6:12] first family of Columbia Heights. [6:14] They're involved in so many things with [6:17] St. Patrick's Day and Tasty Pizza, all [6:21] that. It's good to see him out and [6:23] about. Here's Sean Senior and uh Judy [6:28] Patricia again of the Clerkens. They are [6:30] with the Minneapolis St. Patrick's Day [6:33] Association. Uh Minneapolis St. [6:36] Patrick's Day Parade Association just [6:38] finished their 57th year. Uh they have [6:42] Miss Blney of 2025 [6:45] nay and former Miss Blies with them. [6:47] They want to thank everybody of Columbia [6:50] Heights for hosting their parade for the [6:52] past three years and they want to thank [6:54] everybody for their kindness. [6:58] [Music] [7:00] Here comes Miss Blie. [7:06] Perfect. All the Irish beauties in one [7:08] place right here. Hey. [7:14] [Applause] [7:18] Oo, look at that. He's got the gold. [7:23] Knowledge Johnson. Golden Gloves 2023 [7:28] Upper Midwest Light Heavyweight Champion [7:30] of 2024 2022 [7:34] West Golden Gloves Champion and the [7:36] National 2025 National Golden Gloves [7:39] Silver Medalist from Columbia Heights [7:41] Firehouse gym located in the Old Colia [7:44] Heights Fire Department. [7:47] That was in a a club that the Clerken [7:50] family started. That is Oh, and here we [7:53] have Goldie Gopher. One of the most [7:56] recognized and beloved figures in all [7:58] the state of Minnesota. He's got one of [8:00] the toothiest grins, boundless energy, [8:04] and an irresistible spirit. Goldie has [8:07] paused down the best mascot [8:10] around. He's got titles to prove it. On [8:13] the court, field, or at the parade, [8:16] Goldie will bring a smile and laughter. [8:20] If you watch the football games, Goldie [8:23] has to do a push-up for every point [8:25] that's scored. Oh, he's got to be just [8:28] touchown. Massive. Touchdown is six [8:31] push-ups. I don't even know if I could [8:33] do one anymore. If you get up into 60 [8:38] college games can get pretty high up [8:40] there. His tongue is hanging out when he [8:44] not price score. Yeah, it's amazing. I [8:48] bet. [8:51] Yeah. I don't know the last time I ever [8:52] tried to do some push-ups, but I [8:54] guarantee it's not as many as I used to [8:56] be able to do. That's for sure. [9:01] So, we get back to our events that are [9:04] going on here at [9:06] Jefferson Street. Um, and they have the [9:10] fireworks at dusk on Saturday. Oh, yeah. [9:13] That's always a great turnout. You have [9:15] the availability of coming down here, [9:17] watching some wrestling, and then going [9:19] up onto the hill and watching some [9:21] beautiful fireworks. They're great [9:23] display, but if it rains, which it does [9:26] once in a while, that is true. Well, [9:28] they'll move it to Sunday evening. So, [9:31] uh you'll you'll be able to see the same [9:33] great fireworks on Sunday instead of [9:35] Saturday if mother nature changes [9:38] things. That is true. I've always been a [9:40] big fan of having the fireworks a little [9:42] bit before the 4th of July because it's [9:44] not as crowded as some of the other [9:46] places to go be able to see such a [9:49] beautiful site. And I think uh the [9:52] Columbia Heights has been one of the [9:53] better displays uh in this area. It's [9:56] really really a good uh fireworks put [9:59] on. [10:02] Yeah, I personally myself, I mean, I've [10:04] pretty much been born and raised here [10:06] other than the couple years that I was [10:08] at college, but I was a huge fan of [10:10] always coming out to the jamboree and [10:13] being able to watch them. Sometimes [10:14] those mosquitoes got you a little bit, [10:16] so make sure you wear some bug spray if [10:18] you do plan to come out to them. This [10:21] might be the year for them with all the [10:22] rain that we've had in the warm weather. [10:27] A look at the doggy. Hello, little [10:30] doggy. Oh, super happy to be here on [10:32] such a gorgeous day. You look It looks [10:35] dogone happy. Dogone happy. Well, for [10:38] some of those who haven't been out to [10:40] the parade in a while, we used to come [10:41] down Central Avenue, but a while ago, we [10:44] ended up having to change our route. We [10:46] actually come down Quincy Street now up [10:49] to 40th. We take 40th down and up and [10:51] around uh the Husett Park side. So, it [10:55] has changed a little bit. It made [10:57] Central Avenue a little bit more open. [11:00] So, I know there was a little bit of a a [11:04] change when that happened because it was [11:06] going down Central for years. And it's [11:10] going to be some extensive changes made [11:12] also now. Uh, and [11:16] soon they plan on uh expanding the lanes [11:20] and creating a bike lane, I believe. And [11:23] uh I got to put uh there's talk of [11:26] putting a roundabout up on 53rd in [11:29] Central. So uh thing things won't be the [11:33] same. No, like everything, it's due to [11:37] change. Indeed. Yeah. Just like me not [11:39] being able to do push-ups anymore. But [11:41] let me tell you what, I can eat at least [11:44] four more donuts than I used to be able [11:45] to. [11:48] or I guess you know here probably [11:50] another half pound of cheese curds. One [11:53] one of my favorite things down at the [11:54] fair. Well, [11:57] whatever turns your crank, you know. [12:02] Um it is a great turnout here that we [12:04] have today. I'm really happy that we [12:06] were able to [12:09] save off the rain and get everybody back [12:12] out here. For sure. [12:16] It was two years ago. We had rain, heavy [12:19] rain, uh during the parade. So, the [12:22] parade stalled for a while and they [12:25] looked across the street and there was a [12:27] guy with a rod and reel. He was fishing [12:28] in the gutter. He was That would have [12:31] been amazing to see. He didn't get [12:34] anything. I don't know why. I hope not. [12:36] I'd be a little concerned if he did. [12:39] Some of the old wives tales you pulled [12:40] out like a crocodile or something like [12:42] that from the sewers. Yes. [12:46] Ah, now Miller's Corner Bar and Grill. [12:48] That place has some amazing food. If [12:51] you're ever in the area and you want a [12:53] nice little stop to eat, that place is [12:55] the way to go. Oh, they got great food [12:58] and and on the weekend they have [13:00] entertainment, good uh uh bands and [13:04] trios and whatnot. Uh and they have um [13:09] bar bingo. I love the friendly service [13:12] when I go in. Everybody always seems to [13:14] be happy to be there. Great people. It's [13:17] that's like uh everybody knows your [13:19] name. That uh correct. [13:22] Well, I mean, everybody already knows [13:24] you, Jav. So, [13:29] that's not a good thing. [13:33] Oh, you're being too modest. We uh we've [13:36] got a lull in the parade here, [13:38] apparently. Uh [13:40] did somebody take a wrong turn here? [13:43] Wrong turn in Albuquerque. [13:45] Compliments of Bugs Bunny. [13:55] Well, coming up here in camera shot, you [13:58] can see them a little ways down, but [14:00] that is the Magnify Financial. [14:06] Magnify Financial is Minnesota's fifth [14:09] largest credit union. [14:12] They are a full-ervice credit union [14:14] offering retail banking, commercial [14:16] banking, mortgages, and wealth [14:18] management services to anyone within its [14:21] field of membership in Minnesota. [14:26] I'd like to take uh a minute just to [14:29] thank all these merchants that uh sold [14:32] our advanced tickets for carnival rides. [14:34] There were nine of them and uh they they [14:38] did a real good job this year. It's [14:41] great because uh if you buy a strip of [14:44] uh ride tickets from them, you can save [14:49] you could have saved $12 from from uh [14:53] rides at the cost of the ride at the [14:56] carnival. So, next year if you see a [14:59] sign in the window of a merchant and he [15:01] sells uh advanced tickets, check into [15:04] it. It's good for a family or anybody [15:08] that wants to be uh down on the rides [15:10] there. Uh buy from the merchants. We [15:13] appreciate what they do for us. [15:16] We really do. [15:24] So, Magnify Financial [15:27] uh wealth management and services are [15:29] open to everyone um Minnesota, North [15:32] Dakota, and Wisconsin. Magnify Financial [15:35] serves members through an extensive [15:38] network of branches and best-in-class [15:41] digital services. Whether at home or on [15:44] the go, members can access their account [15:47] and manage funds with ease throughout [15:49] full sight of digital banking services. [15:53] They've got some great employees there, [15:55] too. They really do. Yep. They move you [15:58] through real fast with with a smile. And [16:02] it's a great place to to join the credit [16:04] union. Good for the community and good [16:07] for the customers. Speaking of good for [16:10] the community, we actually had a um [16:15] hygiene drive and they were a big [16:17] component into a donation for the [16:19] hygiene drive for the local kids here [16:21] for the high school and middle school. [16:22] So, that was really nice of them, too. [16:25] And speaking of, their uh little Jeep is [16:28] called the Drive to End Hunger Jeep. So, [16:32] you can tell that they care about the [16:34] community of what they're in. [16:46] [Music] [16:49] There it is. Nice shot of it. I like [16:52] that blue. I want to get a vehicle in [16:54] there. [16:56] Looks like the first uh participant to [17:00] throw candy to the kids. [17:03] I wonder if I went in and was like, I [17:04] want magnifying blue. If the uh the [17:07] detailers would know what I'm talking [17:09] about. Oh, you should make that a thing. [17:11] Magnify blue. [17:13] You got a big old smile there. Kids love [17:16] it. [17:19] [Music] [17:22] Thank you, Magnify Financial, for [17:24] everything you do for the community. Y [17:27] hunger is prevalent everywhere now. [17:30] So any any involvement they have is is [17:33] good to hear. You know [17:36] is very nice to hear. [17:50] You're missing so many Tootsie Rolls. [17:53] Don't forget them. Yep. I see you see [17:55] them. Get it. [17:57] And down. Oh, you dropped one. No. [18:03] Uh, [18:05] we got one of the uh [18:08] heads of the credit union, Ron. He's a [18:13] member of the Lions Club now. He sure [18:15] is. Good member. Nice to see you, sir. [18:22] And we have the Oyola High School [18:24] marching band. [18:26] [Music] [18:28] Acyola marching band is proud to be back [18:32] at the Columbia Heights Jamberee. In [18:34] addition to today's parade, the band [18:36] will also be performing at other local [18:38] parades this summer, including Blaine, [18:41] River Falls, St. Croy Falls, and New [18:43] Richmond, Wisconsin. They want uh we're [18:47] also going to be taking a trip to the [18:49] greater Kansas area where they will be [18:51] marching in the Lennox Kansas 4th of [18:55] July parade. Well, that's coming up. On [18:59] behalf of Mr. Aay and the OS band. We [19:04] love to see everybody attend our own [19:07] Oyola community fair parade on Sunday, [19:10] September 7th, 2025 at 100 p.m. [19:15] Seems like we can always count on Oyola [19:17] to be participants. Oh yes, Oyola is [19:21] always here. They want to thank [19:22] everybody too for the opportunity to [19:25] march in the parade this year. [19:28] [Music] [19:32] to give these kids uh give these kids [19:35] credit to spend all this time with a [19:38] high school band when they could be [19:40] enjoying the summer off somewhere else. [19:43] But they have put in a lot of hours of [19:45] practice and it shows up. They're doing [19:47] a good job. [19:59] [Music] [20:07] [Applause] [20:10] She must be Princess Fiona. And this is [20:12] from All Star. [20:18] Heat. [20:25] [Music] [20:37] Heat. [20:41] [Music] [20:50] Heat. [20:53] [Music] [21:04] Heat. [21:06] [Music] [21:08] [Applause] [21:10] [Music] [21:28] And here we have the Columbia Heights [21:30] Public School mission creating worlds of [21:34] opportunity for each and every learner. [21:37] all be long, all succeed. [21:41] As a person who went to Columbia Heights [21:43] and graduated from there, I can say that [21:45] it was a great time. I had I made [21:47] friends that I still, you know, talk to [21:49] on a daily basis. The community was [21:52] great and diverse and, you know, [21:54] everybody can succeed and we're here for [21:57] everybody. [22:07] This is uh the school activities, [22:09] athletic and activities department. [22:12] It should be noted that uh they've got [22:14] new football coaches this year. Pete and [22:18] John were there for 32 years and finally [22:21] decided it was time to retire. So, we'll [22:25] see what we have for coaches next year. [22:28] Should be interesting. We have the chair [22:30] Grantland. We have member Howell, member [22:33] Palmer, member Pedway, [22:36] member Smith, and superintendent [22:38] Stenvvic. [22:40] Oh, and sorry, and member Maderas. [22:45] Here's the teacher of the year. [22:53] [Music] [22:55] Jennifer Cahill, kindergarten teacher at [22:57] Valley View Elementary. [22:59] [Applause] [23:01] [Music] [23:03] one of the few uh elementary schools [23:06] that we have here in Columbia Heights. [23:09] Valley View has teacher of the year and [23:11] they also have the principal of the [23:13] year. [23:15] [Applause] [23:16] [Music] [23:19] Here is the 2025 Columbia Heights Alumni [23:22] Distinction Trevor Major of class 2000. [23:28] He's uh been involved in Columbia High [23:31] sport activities since he was probably 5 [23:34] years old. [23:36] Every year you see him at uh just about [23:39] every athletic activity at the high [23:42] school. Great support contributing uh [23:46] money that he's raised for the um [23:50] boosters club and the school. So he's [23:53] earned that uh title that he got. [24:00] [Music] [24:05] This is the Columbia Heights Athletic [24:07] Boosters, an organization of dedicated [24:09] community volunteers who volunteer their [24:11] time and talents to support youth [24:13] activities and athletics throughout [24:15] Columbia Heights, fostering [24:17] participation and the best experiences [24:20] possible. [24:31] [Music] [24:42] Since 2019, Monarch Bus Service has [24:45] proudly kept Columbia Heights Public [24:47] Schools and its community's future [24:49] moving safely, reliably, and with heart [24:52] as a part of Minnesota coaches family. [24:54] They are students across this. They [24:57] serve students across the state from [24:59] Columbia Heights to Duth and beyond. And [25:01] great news, they're hiring school bus [25:04] drivers now at Top Pay. Join a team that [25:07] values safety, community, and our [25:09] future. With fuel efficient buses, local [25:12] terminals, and deep passion for student [25:15] success, Monarch Bus Service is your [25:17] ride to a brighter future. Give them a [25:20] wave as they roll by. Monarch Bus [25:23] Service. Driven by safety, powered by [25:26] community. You want a challenge, be a [25:28] school bus driver. [25:30] I know it takes a lot to drive one of [25:33] those things. It is not something super [25:35] easy. They got a lot of tail swing on [25:37] them. Yep. They uh have to be patient [25:40] and enjoy what they're doing. Oh, [25:42] definitely. [25:53] It looks like we have up next the [25:55] unlimited next level drill team. UNL is [25:59] a nonprofit drill team program based out [26:02] of Minneapolis, Minnesota. They perform [26:05] throughout the year at various events, [26:07] parades, graduations, weddings, sporting [26:10] events, and much more. UNL is a program [26:13] designed to teach youth and young adults [26:15] leadership skills through performing. [26:19] They follow the meopic vision each one [26:22] teach one philosophy. [26:31] [Applause] [26:58] [Applause] [27:06] Pretty [27:15] good. Every movement must have a [27:18] meaning. [27:31] Very [27:59] [Music] [28:04] I can barely keep a feet on a drum, even [28:07] it while walking. [28:09] That's impressive. Here we have uh [28:12] council member Connie. [28:15] She is very well known throughout the [28:17] community. I can't think of a single [28:19] place where I haven't seen Connie. If [28:20] there's a community event involved, she [28:22] is there. She's very active. [28:26] You've been in the council eight years [28:28] or so, I think. I do believe that's [28:30] correct. [28:35] It's great to have. [28:46] [Applause] [28:50] And here we have Justice Spriggs, [28:55] another council member. [28:57] Looks like he's got half a truck there. [29:01] It's the new eco vans. Very efficient. [29:07] You know, it'd be kind of fun to go [29:08] camping in one of those, I think. You [29:10] know, maybe [29:12] it's a nice little air bed in the back, [29:14] but I have air conditioning the whole [29:15] time. I don't think it could stretch out [29:17] in it at all, but uh it'd be [29:19] interesting. True. And here's the 2025 [29:23] Anoka County Sheriff's Office. [29:26] Uh they've been a proud history here [29:29] since it established on June 30th, 1857. [29:33] The sheriff's office repres [29:37] 911 calls for service for an NOA County [29:40] communities that do not have their own [29:43] police departments. The sheriff also [29:45] provides specialized functions [29:47] throughout the county such as water [29:49] patrol, [29:52] recreational vehicle enforcement, and [29:54] specialty investigations. The sheriff [29:56] operates the community jail in Anoka and [29:59] provides security in the courthouse. The [30:01] current sheriff is Brad Wise. [30:04] They sure are busy nowadays. [30:07] Lot lot of stuff going on that they get [30:09] involved in. Lots of hats. [30:12] Here [30:17] [Music] [30:40] comes Jackie and Julie in the gang. from [30:42] Millers. Oh, weren't we just talking [30:45] about them? Indeed. Miller's Corner Bar [30:50] is amazing. Great burgers, bar bingo, [30:54] and on Thursday nights, meat raffle on [30:56] Saturday nights, and live music on the [30:59] weekends. Oh, it's a great time. I just [31:02] I can't speak enough about how much [31:04] Millers means the community. [31:09] It's just a great time every single time [31:11] you go. [31:13] Roman, speaking of Yeah, we have Roman's [31:16] Cafe right behind. [31:19] It is a awesome cafe right here on 40th. [31:23] Come and enjoy breakfast or the lunch [31:25] menu. Hours open is 7:00 a.m. till noon [31:28] every day, but not on holidays. But if [31:31] you want an awesome breakfast, they got [31:34] one. And it is so tasty. You're not [31:37] going to find anything better for [31:39] breakfast here in Columbia Heights. It's [31:41] a popular spot. [31:43] Great. [31:49] 2025 outstanding citizen of the year. We [31:54] have Jennifer [31:56] Piper Muno. [32:05] And here we have the Columbia Heights [32:08] Key Club consists of high schooler [32:10] students. The Colombia or from the [32:12] Columbia Heights High School Key Club is [32:15] an international student-ledd [32:17] organization that provides its members [32:19] with opportunities to provide service, [32:22] build character, and develop leadership. [32:24] It is supported by the Colombia Heights [32:26] Fidley Kowanas Club. [32:29] They do recycling every Saturday at the [32:32] uh city um yard there on um [32:38] 37th. So uh check it out. They're [32:42] they're a great uh young organization. [32:46] So and they're a great help for the [32:49] community. Always volunteering for [32:51] things. [32:52] Speaking of great things for the [32:54] community, here we have the Columbia [32:56] Heights [32:57] Recreation Department. They offer [32:59] yearround programs for kids, adults, and [33:03] active aers. They have summer park [33:06] programs, youth theater trips, baseball, [33:09] softball, soccer, basketball, martial [33:11] arts, ice skating, tumbling, and more. [33:15] That was a lot to say. Adults can take [33:18] part and experience in many activities [33:20] like concerts, day outings, card groups, [33:24] art classes through act through the [33:27] active aers program. Everyone has the [33:29] opportunity to feel at home and [33:31] inclusive and engaging, you know, the [33:33] community. Join them this summer. They [33:36] still have spaces open for a variety of [33:39] youth programs, including exciting trips [33:41] to water parks, dance camps, theater [33:44] performances, sports camps, and more. [33:47] They're also going to be showcasing the [33:49] puppet wagon coming right up here in the [33:52] parade. Students put on puppet shows at [33:54] Ramsdale Park on Fridays at 10:30 a.m. [33:57] and every other Thursday at 10:00 a.m. [34:00] in Houston Park East. It's just a great [34:03] experience to have. It's very intricral. [34:06] Everybody's included. There's something [34:08] for everybody. [34:10] And if you miss it one day, it's fine. [34:12] You got weeks still going. [34:17] It's a great little u pastime for your [34:22] kids during the summertime, keep them [34:24] busy, and you don't see a single cell [34:26] phone in group. No. getting out and [34:30] getting active and enjoying community [34:32] and being able to enjoy the actual [34:35] beautiful nature and getting to see [34:38] things. It's fantastic. [34:41] I may be a little biased because I [34:42] definitely did it when I was growing up, [34:44] but hey, you know what? It's okay. Well, [34:47] they need that social interaction also [34:51] and that is a big thing. [35:01] Look at those cool fish hats. Oh, I want [35:03] one of those cool fish hats. Howie, I [35:05] think I could definitely rock one of [35:07] those fish hats. That's all I'm saying. [35:09] Really? Oh, yeah. [35:12] You can get the mermaid tail. How about [35:13] that? I'll get a fish hat. You can be my [35:15] mermaid. [35:18] Well, you'll have to find a frog [35:20] somewhere, I think. [35:22] Oh, there is a frog. Even better. [35:27] And here we have our sister city. The [35:30] sister city organization has been active [35:32] in Columbia Heights for over 32 years. [35:35] They're all volunteers. On August 16th, [35:38] they will be having a Polish picnic at [35:41] Park. Everyone is welcome, a band, [35:44] dancers, and many fun events for all [35:46] people. So come to the sister city of [35:48] Lmani. [35:51] Lomen [35:53] Liyanki. Lummen. Thank you. [35:57] [Applause] [36:07] And here comes [36:11] [Applause] [36:13] Ian Omar for Congress fighting for [36:16] people and bringing the energy. Team IR [36:18] is showing up and strong today. [36:25] [Applause] [36:31] [Applause] [36:39] Who you going to call? The Nomad [36:41] Ghostbusters are a charity group [36:44] supporting the American Cancer Society [36:46] dedicated to busting cancer and helping [36:50] those affected by the disease. Anyone [36:52] interested in joining the fight and [36:54] having a little fun can find them at [36:57] nomad ghostbusters.com. [37:00] I think uh they've grown since last year [37:03] the number of members that they have. [37:06] They definitely have. That's good though [37:07] because that means there's more ghosts [37:09] out there that are getting busted. Well, [37:11] they must be doing a good job cuz I [37:12] haven't seen a ghost this week. Perfect. [37:16] [Music] [37:21] Next we have Amory City of Lakes. We [37:26] have Miss Amory and Miss Congeniality [37:31] Vanessa [37:33] Spatro. We have first Princess Kaye [37:36] Anderson. Second Princess and Miss [37:38] Congeniality, [37:40] Anna Williamson, third Princess Darby [37:44] Trent, Little Miss Avery, Saurin Dodge. [37:48] Please join them for the 76th Amory Fall [37:51] Festival Parade on Saturday, September [37:54] 13th at 10:30 a.m. [38:00] Speaking of, we have the Amry High [38:02] School band right behind them. [38:06] The Amry High School band is under the [38:08] direction of Meredith Roads Lungs Green. [38:12] This past winter, the band performed at [38:14] Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom. The [38:17] brave season that they are performing [38:19] music or the the parade season they are [38:22] performing music and movies. Please [38:24] enjoy Star Wars and Pixar favorites. [38:27] It's quite quite an honor. They went to [38:29] Disney World and played there. [39:06] They all have smiles on their faces. [39:08] They must enjoy what they're doing. They [39:10] look good. [39:14] [Music] [39:18] The talent and dedication it takes. [39:22] Amazing. [39:25] [Music] [39:28] [Applause] [39:29] [Music] [39:31] [Applause] [39:33] [Music] [39:59] Give it up to him. That was fantastic. [40:02] They're [40:05] [Music] [40:07] the Avery Warriors. That's their name. [40:11] The Warriors, [40:13] [Music] [40:16] the Greater Life Church. It's thriving, [40:20] vibrant, and growing church in the [40:22] Columbia Heights community. Having been [40:24] a part of the community since 1968, [40:27] Greater Life believes in a authentic [40:29] pursuit of Christ in everyday life. [40:32] Offering a wide range of ministries [40:35] including children's ministry, youth [40:37] group, young adult, new beginnings, [40:41] trauma reboot, and more. Greater Life [40:43] welcomes anyone looking for a church [40:45] home. Come experience the Greater Life [40:47] at 40th and Quincy. [40:50] [Applause] [41:03] They got a great turnout there. Shows [41:05] that it does take every walk of life. [41:08] Anybody and everybody who is looking, [41:10] it's perfect. [41:19] [Music] [41:31] [Music] [41:44] Oh, you know they're having a great time [41:46] out here. There's a lot of spirit about [41:49] them. [41:58] [Applause] [41:58] [Music] [42:06] [Applause] [42:17] As long as I'm [42:21] [Applause] [42:21] [Music] [42:29] [Music] [42:30] [Applause] [42:32] [Music] [42:35] [Applause] [42:36] [Music] [42:39] Here we have the Hope Community church [42:42] and Permela Legalis Barusta have joined [42:48] together in the parade today. Both [42:50] churches are located in Columbia Heights [42:52] and love this community. [42:57] [Applause] [43:01] Another great turnout showing that if [43:04] you have faith, there is someone out [43:06] here for you. Everybody is willing and [43:10] accepting for you. It's great to see [43:12] you. [43:15] [Applause] [43:16] [Music] [43:16] [Applause] [43:19] Oh, [43:21] what time is it? Would you say it's [43:23] 2:30, Howie? [43:26] Not with Columbia Heights Dentistry. To [43:28] see the dentist. [43:30] Columbia Heights Dentistry is a local [43:32] femaleowned dentist office. Our office [43:35] have been in the community for over [43:37] eight years. We provide up-to-date [43:40] dental services such as inoff [43:42] specialties, CBCT, [43:45] and same day crowns. The office is [43:48] currently accepting new patients and has [43:50] same day appointments available. [43:53] And that's good to hear because if your [43:55] teeth ever hurt, that's not something [43:56] that you want to just wait on. And [43:58] they're throwing out a lot of candy to [43:59] the kids. Perfect. Getting new clients. [44:02] There you go. Here [44:05] [Music] [44:10] we have the Cub Scout Pack 3-132. [44:16] They uh Cub Scout Pack and Scouts BSA [44:20] Troop 3132. Both serve the Columbia [44:22] Heights and Northeast Minneapolis areas. [44:25] They meet at Mount Carmel Lutheran [44:27] Church in Northeast Minneapolis. [44:30] They welcome school age children to join [44:32] them. [44:34] It's a good organization. It's too bad [44:36] there aren't more kids involved in it. [44:38] It's h it's a lot of fun. Oh, and we [44:42] have the free book buggy. Did you know [44:46] that the free book buggy is a mobile [44:47] free bookstore for children? They travel [44:50] all across the Twin Cities to give away [44:52] children's books from baby to high [44:54] school ages. They're working hard to [44:56] make sure all children have their own [44:58] home library. find their events all over [45:01] the Twin Cities. [45:06] That's something that I find very [45:07] impressive, a mobile library. I know [45:10] sometimes you don't have the ability to [45:12] get to the library or it's too far away. [45:15] That's great to see that they have [45:17] somebody that cherishes knowledge and [45:20] sharing, you know, the written word. So [45:22] many people nowadays, they have Kindles [45:24] or just read everything online. There's [45:27] something to say about cracking open a [45:28] book [45:30] and sharing it with somebody. [45:37] People that drive these vehicles and and [45:40] uh get around on the route, they got to [45:44] love what they're doing. Oh yeah. [45:48] Speaking of love what they're doing, [45:50] here's the art cars. Every day is a [45:53] parade for an art car and art bike [45:55] artists. Artists use the car and the [45:58] bike as their canvases to create [45:59] beautiful works of art. They love to [46:02] show them off and have a great time [46:04] doing it. [46:10] Look at that one. [46:12] I like the stingray on the front. [46:18] Wonder what he does in his spare time. [46:21] Toy collector. [46:27] Well, that one looks fun. [46:42] And here we have the Minnesota Force. [46:45] It's a group of science fiction and [46:47] fantasy fans who've come together over a [46:50] common love of Star Wars. Members come [46:53] from all walks of life in range and age [46:55] from children to those who remember the [46:57] premiere of Star Wars in 1977. [47:01] In addition to the costumes you see [47:03] here, the Minnesota Force hosts a book [47:05] club, gaming groups, art and craft [47:07] meetings, a collector's club, and [47:10] regular social events. The Minnesota [47:12] Force is also proud to be a force for [47:15] charity by making numerous appearances [47:17] throughout the year for charitable [47:19] causes. Members are a small part of a [47:22] worldwide organization of Star Wars [47:23] costumeers who help raise millions for [47:26] charity each year. For more information, [47:28] look for the Midwest Force on Facebook [47:31] or sorry, the Minnesota Force on [47:33] Facebook. Their motto is may the forest [47:37] be with you. [47:40] Oh, look at that costume. Oh, I love it. [47:46] And here we have Schmidt Towing. [47:49] [Applause] [47:54] Cullins Brothers Towing of St. Cloud [47:56] along with their division of Schmidt [47:57] Towing of Fidley are proud to partner [48:00] with the city of Columbia Heights. [48:02] Cullins Brothers Towing of St. Cloud [48:04] locallyowned and operated is your [48:07] premier towing provider with 27 [48:09] locations across the state. Egan to [48:12] Duth, Rogers to Fargo, St. Cloud Disa. [48:15] With being Minnesota's largest towing [48:17] company in the Midwest, we are committed [48:19] to providing excellent quick service at [48:22] an affordable price. Nothing is too [48:24] small, nothing is too heavy. They tow it [48:26] all. We are Minnesota tow guys where you [48:30] request the best. [48:33] Well, that's quite a tow vehicle they [48:35] got in the the head of the parade there. [48:38] Oh, yes. [48:42] And here we have [48:45] school bus.j jobs with us. Family comes [48:49] first and our drivers are a part of the [48:51] family. We're on the hunt for local [48:53] superheroes ready to safely shuttle [48:55] students to and from school. Don't [48:57] worry, we'll hook you up with the [49:00] training and even pay you for your CDL [49:02] class B with the school bus and [49:04] passenger endorsements if you need it. [49:06] Enjoy flexible schedules, sweet weekly [49:09] pay, sweet weekly pay, and fabulous sign [49:12] on bonus. They also have a lookout for [49:16] van drivers, paras, and mechanics. [49:19] Northstar bus lines and American student [49:21] transportation has been rocking the [49:23] familyowned vibe since 1963. [49:26] To apply, text driver to 484848 [49:30] or check us out at schoolbus.j jobs. [49:33] That's a great job. You get the summer [49:35] off. Sounds great to me. [49:39] And here we have Gopher. [49:43] When Minnesota homeowners and businesses [49:45] need fast, reliable service, they turn [49:47] to Gopher sewer and drain in Fidley. [49:50] Locally owned and proudly serving the [49:52] Twin Cities, Gopher is known for [49:54] excellent drain cleaning, camera [49:55] inspections, and sewer line solutions [49:58] done right the first time with upfront [50:00] put pricing, no hidden fees, and a [50:03] commitment to customer satisfaction. [50:05] Gopher Sewer and Drain keeps things [50:07] flowing smoothly. Trust the pros. Gopher [50:10] gets it done. [50:12] With all the rain that we just had, I [50:14] totally understand that, too. I may have [50:16] to look into calling them because I had [50:18] some water come up through my drain. [50:21] [Music] [50:23] You never know. [50:25] [Music] [50:29] Here we have the Republican Party of [50:32] Minnesota stands with a firm alliance [50:35] with the principles that make America [50:38] exceptional. The Republican Party must [50:40] reaffirm the timeless truths that have [50:43] made this country exceptional in the [50:45] past and will do so in the future. We [50:48] expect our elected officials to uphold [50:50] truths throughout acknowledgement and [50:52] action. We are one nation under God, [50:55] indivisible, with liberty and justice [50:58] for all. [51:02] [Music] [51:09] If you'd like to get involved in shaping [51:11] a safer and more prosperous Minneapolis, [51:15] connect with your Minneapolis Republican [51:17] party. They're here to inspire, connect, [51:19] and mobilize neighbors who care about [51:21] liberty, opportunity. [51:24] Just scan the QR code on their shirts to [51:27] learn more. [51:29] Here we have the Maple Grove Senior High [51:32] School [51:36] [Music] [51:43] [Applause] [51:50] Normally I'd have a big old blurb to [51:52] say, but generally their music kind of [51:54] speaks for itself, you know. Sure. [51:58] [Music] [51:59] [Applause] [52:09] Okay. [52:13] Yeah. [52:22] [Applause] [52:24] Okay. [52:27] Yeah. [52:35] [Applause] [52:40] Looks like all ages in that group, [52:42] doesn't it? Definitely looks to be that [52:44] way. [52:49] We have the Seikka Food Shelf and Thrift [52:51] Store. They have served Columbia [52:53] Heights, Fidley Hilltop, Spring Lake [52:55] Park in northeast Minneapolis for almost [52:57] 50 years. since 1976. [53:01] In 2024, [53:03] they served 68,000 people and [53:05] distributed [53:07] 950,000 [53:10] pounds of food throughout their client [53:13] chose food shelf, grocery delivery [53:16] service for seniors, fresh produce [53:19] distributions, mobile food program, and [53:22] holiday meal boxes. Wow, that's a lot of [53:25] food. They have an on-site thrift store [53:27] that is open to the public during food [53:29] shelf hours. Thank you so much for all [53:32] the help that you have done. Seikka, [53:34] they say no one should go hungry. That's [53:38] it's a great attitude or a great uh job [53:41] to have. Correct. Next up, we have [53:44] Northeast Bank. For 75 years, Northeast [53:47] Bank has been a steadfast supporter of [53:50] the Columbia Heights community and its [53:52] surrounding areas. With offices located [53:54] in Northeast Minneapolis, New Brighton, [53:56] and Rapids, they're deeply rooted [53:59] in the places that they serve. Our [54:01] community goes beyond banking. Each [54:03] year, we proudly donate over 2,700 [54:07] volunteer hours to make a meaningful [54:09] impact to the community. as your trusted [54:11] partner for the path ahead. They're [54:13] dedicated to helping their community [54:15] thrive. Join us for this journey and [54:17] experience the difference in community [54:19] focused banking that they can make. [54:26] We have River Oaks Columbia Heights, the [54:29] newest establishment in the River Oaks [54:31] of many Minnesota family of communities. [54:35] Formerly Crest View on 42nd, River Oaks [54:38] Columbia Heights is a senior assisted [54:40] living community for those 55 years and [54:42] older. Their mission is to assist their [54:44] residents in navigating the valuable [54:46] points of their lives with compassion [54:49] and clarity so that they can maintain [54:51] stability and security for their lives. [54:54] Royal Oaks, it's a great location. 42nd [54:58] Central. Mhm. [55:05] And here we have the Little Voyagers [55:09] Montasauri School. [55:12] They lay the foundation for a lifetime [55:14] of learning. Little Voyagers is a [55:17] year-round program for children ages 31 [55:20] months through kindergarten. They've [55:22] been a member of the Columbia Colombia [55:24] Heights community since 1968. The [55:27] program is nationally accredited from [55:30] the NAEYC [55:33] and has a four of four star parent [55:37] rating. Little Voyagers is a very [55:39] diverse community with families and [55:41] staff from a variety of cultural [55:43] backgrounds. The school provides [55:45] creative hands-on menasury learning [55:48] environment. [55:50] The little people are having a great [55:51] time. All having a great time. [55:57] Blaine Orthodontics offers braces and [56:01] Invisalign for adults and children. They [56:03] accept all insuranceances including Blue [56:06] Plus, Health Partners, UK Care, and [56:08] Dentquest. Call today for that perfect [56:11] smile. They say, "Brace yourself." [56:14] Ah, see, now you got one even in [56:19] [Applause] [56:28] And here we have [56:32] the Zahura Shrine Horse Patrol. They are [56:36] mounted shrine horse unit founded in [56:38] 1947 led by Captain Bob Gretton. They've [56:43] enjoyed performing as ambassadors for [56:46] the 22 Shrine Children's Hospital in [56:49] Canada, Mexico, and the United States. [56:52] Dura Horsemen are always looking for new [56:54] riders to enjoy the fun, camaraderie, [56:56] nobility, and embodiment. Horsemen's [56:59] motto, we ride so children can walk. [57:02] Located in Independence, Minnesota, the [57:04] Horseman's facility features both [57:07] indooroutdoor arenas, numerous pastors, [57:10] and district park access for members and [57:13] non-members to enjoy the equestrian [57:16] passion. You can find them on Facebook [57:19] at Zuros Shine Horsemen. Make note of [57:23] the quarterly cowboy breakfasts which [57:26] are open to the public. [57:29] Every year they're horsing around, you [57:31] know. [57:33] Oh, horsing around. Howie, thank you so [57:36] much for coming out here to the parade. [57:38] It's been a great year here uh for [57:41] Columbia Heights of 2025. [57:43] Um and thank you all for coming in and [57:46] watching. Uh it's been a great time. [57:48] Hope to see you all next year and thank [57:52] you very much. See you around. Good [57:54] weather. Good times. Good times. [57:59] [Music]