College View’s 25th Annual Block Parade Offers a Heartfelt Slice of Americana
July 7, 2025
While the big fireworks shows and city-wide celebrations lit up the night skies across Laurens County on July 3rd, it was a much simpler event on the morning of Independence Day that delivered the most authentic dose of patriotism and community spirit.
On the Fourth of July, as they have every year for the past 25 years, the neighbors of the College View community in Clinton gathered to celebrate America’s birthday in a way that felt personal, genuine, and deeply American. The annual College View Block Parade once again proved that it doesn’t take grand stages or elaborate fanfare to show love for one’s country—it takes people showing up for each other.
The celebration kicked off with a prayer offered by neighborhood resident and Clinton Mayor Randy Randall. Then came a group rendition of the National Anthem, led with heart by neighbors Amy and Bob Link, as flags waved and voices rose in unison.
The parade itself was just one block long—but packed with tradition and charm. A Clinton firetruck proudly led the procession, followed by kids riding decorated bicycles and scooters, pedestrians – some of them dressed head-to-toe in red, white, and blue, and golf carts sparkling with patriotic flair. The smiles were as abundant as the sunshine.
Following the short but meaningful route, the group lingered for a time of fellowship with lemonade, sweets, and popsicles—offering neighbors a chance to celebrate the day together.
No big budget. No big plan. Just a neighborhood with a big heart.
In a world that often feels rushed and disconnected, the College View Independence Day parade is a powerful reminder of what matters most—community, freedom, and the simple joys of gathering with friends and neighbors. This is America.
