The Independence Day Committee has announced this year’s honorees for Claremont’s annual Fourth of July Celebration. Each honoree will be highlighted in the staple Fourth of July Parade. Chuck Freitas will lead the festivities as this year’s Grand Marshal. Mr. Freitas is recognized for more than 30 years of leadership in Claremont, from Claremont Sunrise Rotary to the Red Cross and beyond. This year’s honored citizen is Hal Hargrave, Jr. After a terrible accident in 2007 that left him paralyzed from the neck down, Mr. Hargrave has dedicated his time to helping others with spinal cord injuries through his nonprofit, the Be Perfect Foundation. 

The Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) is being recognized as this year’s Honored Group with the Claremont Museum of Art recognized with the Blue Ribbon Spirit Award. Fourth of July activities will take place all day starting with a pancake breakfast in the morning and culminating with the traditional fireworks show, to be held at Pomona College’s Strehle Track. Tickets for the fireworks show, $8 pre-sale and $10 at the door, go on sale June 1.