ESCANABA — When people think of the 4th of July, what do they think of — picnics, the stars and stripes, bands, fireworks, parades. In 2020 COVID-19 has changed the vision of a ‘normal’ 4th of July holiday for many.

Gladstone Parks and Recreation Director Nicole Sanderson and the Gladstone City Commission agreed to cancel the 4th of July parade this year due to the coronavirus and current road work conditions through town.

“It would be too hard to social distance everyone who is normally sitting or standing elbow to elbow while watching the parade,” Sanderson said.

Reaction is mixed, but the action is understandable.

Former Gladstone resident Kim Nelson currently lives in Pennsylvania and visits the area regularly.

“If I am up there I do go to the parade as long as I have someone to go with. The fireworks are the best part,” said Nelson. “Down here if you want to see good fireworks you have to go up to Erie, which is very overcrowded. It’s all so very moving how everyone comes together during the celebration in Gladstone.”

Minnesota resident Janet Malisheski grew up in Gladstone and views the parade as a gathering point. Her mother, Eileen Demeuse, enjoys going to the parade and seeing people she hasn’t seen for awhile.

“It’s the parade that draws the community together. Granted, the festivities are great to see and enjoy, but it’s the parade that everyone looks forward to every year. I understand the Governor’s view on social distancing and it is an unfortunate time right now. We do what we have to, to be safe,” said Malisheski.

Some parents who would normally take their children to the parade will be staying close to home and spending more time with family members.

“I’m disappointed, but I’m guessing the reason … is the safety of the community and trying to stop the spread of COVID-19. The parade always has a large crowd, and safe social distancing would be near impossible,” said Mid Peninsula teacher Mandi Lippens. “I think this year, instead of the parade, we will find fun ways to celebrate at home. This whole situation can be as good or as bad as you want to make it and we are going to try and make the best of it.”

Gladstone High School Principal Andrew Jacques said he and his children will be sad to miss the parade.

“Like graduation, people have to make decisions that might not be popular, but what they think is best to keep everyone as safe as possible,” said Jacques. “I look forward to some normalcy in the, hopefully, near future. This community is amazing and we will jump back up on our feet stronger than ever. Go Braves.”

Bark River resident Emily Heim feels event planners should take more time before canceling.

“So many events have been hastily canceled instead of riding it out for a bit to see what would happen. Many families look forward to the tradition of going to the parade and it’s sad that they couldn’t make it happen,” said Heim. “Instead, this year we will be attending our annual family Fourth of July gathering like usual and just spend more quality time with family.”

Because of the parade being canceled, some businesses are wondering how it may affect their normal 4th of July business they count on.

“Not having the parade will affect our business,” said D&M Subs owner Erik Johnson. “We are planning on closing the store that day now.”

Mary Cayer, an employee at Pat’s Foods IGA, is hopeful the patrons will still come by.

“We feel a lot of people will still gather in the park, or visit homes,” said Cayer. “We’ll probably be just as busy.”

Dew Drop Owner Amanda Phillips is more focused on the reasons why the parade was canceled.

“Really, it’s just a continuation of complying with the governor’s executive orders, and not really a choice. I think everyone is disappointed with the impact of the pandemic, not just regarding the 4th, but regarding the entire past few months,” she said. “Not having the parade has no where near the impact that the entire pandemic has.”

Gladstone resident Julie Whipple is concerned each event canceled takes money from the community.

“Though, I do understand we have to do what we believe is in the best interest for all,” Whipple said.

Cheryl Duchaine, a resident from Gladstone, feels bad for the community but canceling the parade doesn’t affect her.

“Canceling the parade doesn’t affect me either way. It is sad though for the community,” said Duchaine. “…I think worrying about COVID is going to far.”

Vickie Micheau, Delta County Chamber of Commerce executive director, is planning to hold the Upper Peninsula State Fair in August at this time and understands what goes into a large event and all the factors that have to be considered before canceling.

“I respect their decision. It’s not easy planning a large event in this new environment. I’m sure the organizers evaluated the data and advice available to them at the time the decision was made,” said Micheau. “The 4th of July parade committee members are extremely dedicated and are now likely looking to the future and planning for an extraordinary 2021 event.”

Sanderson is working on an event plan to send to Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s office so people in the community can celebrate Independence Day in the park with food, drinks, music, and fireworks on the 4th of July. Gladstone has scheduled its Summer Concert Series at Van Cleve Park. Thursday evenings from 7 to 9 p.m. People are asked to follow CDC guidelines, carry a blanket, and enjoy music in the park.