Patriotism to take Flag Day spotlight on Sunday

Thanks to the dozens of volunteers, “everything’s ready to go” for the annual Flag Day celebration Sunday, June 9, National Flag Day President Jack Janik said.

Janik said it takes about 80 volunteers to organize the event that for one day turns Waubeka into one of the largest communities in Ozaukee County and certainly its most patriotic.

That includes about 20 “directors,” Janik said. “It’s like a full-time job for them,” he added.

This year’s Flag Day celebration will pay special tribute to 4-H clubs, leaders, advisers and members.

The master of ceremonies and parade marshal will be Fredonia Town Clerk Bob Eichner, who also is general leader of the Waubeka 4-H Club. Honorary parade marshal will be 4-H Area Extension Director Cindy Sarkady.

A patriotic program starts at 11:30 a.m. at the Americanism Center, 4200 Valley View Dr., followed by the parade.

The program includes a ceremonial raising of the American flag, singing of the National Anthem and recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance and a Presidential proclamation. 

Besides Eichner and Sarkady, other parade notables will include Miss Wisconsin Tianna Vanderhel and Miss Wisconsin Outstanding Teen Mandi Genord.

The parade will feature 120 units, including military units, local high school bands and area fire departments.

The University of Wisconsin Marching Band also will be on hand and will perform its Fifth Quarter routine following the parade.

Family Day from 3 to 7 p.m. is expanded this year and will include a bungee swing, pony rides, face painting, bounce house and other games, all free. 

“It’s all paid for by patriotic donors,” Janik said.

The Americanism Center also will be open for touring, as will Stony Hill School, 5595 Hwy. I, from noon to 4 p.m.

The Mike Maher Band will perform from 5 to 9 p.m.

The day will end with a fireworks display at dusk.

A shuttle bus will be available at the school to take people to Pioneer Village, 4880 Hwy. I, where the Ozaukee Historical Society is presenting its Handwerker Schau, featuring demonstrations of daily life in Ozaukee County in the 1800s. Activities will include blacksmithing, basket making, butter churning, quilting, weaving and spinning.

Waubeka is considered to be the birthplace of Flag Day.

On June 14, 1885, Bernard J. Cigrand, a 19-year-old teacher at Stony Hill School, placed a 10-inch, 38-star flag in a bottle on his desk and assigned students to write essays on the flag and its significance.