Austin announces 47th annual July 4th parade grand marshal and theme

The Austintown Township Trustee Meeting held on June 2, 2025, featured a lively discussion centered around the upcoming 47th Annual Austintown Fourth of July Parade. The meeting began with a commendation for Jim, a key organizer of the parade, whose efforts were recognized as vital to the event's success.

Trustee members expressed gratitude for Jim's hard work, noting that he often goes unrecognized for his contributions. The parade is scheduled to commence at noon at the intersection of Kirk and Raccoon Road, with this year's theme being "Freedom Shot into Every Wave and Smile."

A notable change this year is the selection of Chris Wetzel as the grand marshal, a decision made to bring positivity to the community amid current political tensions. Wetzel, known for his friendly demeanor, will be featured on a custom gazebo trailer, built by Boke and Sons, which mirrors one he has at home.

As of the meeting, approximately 50 participants had already signed up for the parade, with a few weeks remaining for additional entries. Organizers encouraged community members to create and customize their floats, with awards to be presented at the August meeting for the best designs.

Trustees also reminded participants to refrain from using water jets or super soakers during the parade to maintain a pleasant atmosphere for all attendees. The meeting concluded with an optimistic outlook for the parade, emphasizing community involvement and celebration.