Stacy Cottrell as she sings the National Anthem.
A veteran raising the flag at the ceremony.
Hundreds of locals make their way through the Mercado.
Rhythm Blenders playing the Bob Hart Square.
A local youth dressed up as a skeleton mariachi player.
A booth with beautiful and brightly colored knitted goods.
Lauryn Franzese and Madelyn Moreno both representing the Livingston Miss Independence program.
Local veterans in formation as the ceremonies begin.
For its monthly edition on July 6, the “Mercado” Night Market provided a venue to celebrate the United States military and many local veterans.
Main Street in downtown Merced was filled with happy shoppers enjoying live music, nearly a hundred vendors and booths, an aura of national pride.
The festivities began with a color guard ceremony held by American Legion Post #83, and a performance of the National Anthem by Rhythm Blenders vocalist Stacy Cottrell. This was followed by recognition and appreciation speeches by the directors of the Merced County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (MCHCC).
Up next were speeches from Lauryn Franzese, former Livingston Miss Independence, as well as Madelyn Moreno, Livingston Miss Independence. They both took their time to speak about their time as Miss Independence and the overall importance of supporting many veterans and active military personnel. Other than greeting visitors and leading the opening ceremonies, they were responsible for judging the “Stars and Stripes Decorating Contest.”
In her speech at the stage, Lauryn Franzese had this to say: “As I’ve gotten older, I had a realization. Spiderman wasn’t the only one who defined a hero that I look up to. The fact is, there are so many inspirational, real-life heroes around me: Veterans, military personnel, and first responders. These individuals lead by example through their determination, selflessness, and passions for service. They demonstrate servant leadership and how to live a life of honor. Not hesitating at the sight of danger but rather running to it to defend and help those around them. Caring and protecting their community’s every day. Not backing down when these individuals face challenges or adversity. Choosing courage over fear no matter the situation.
“So, to our veterans, military personnel, and first responders, thank you for being a real-life hero that we can look up too and count on. It is because of you, we can feel safe and secure. We take today to appreciate and thank you for your service.”
After the official presentations were out of the way, Rhythms Blenders took the stage to perform. The band drew in a nice-sized crowd around Bob Hart Square as they played a variety of funky and danceable songs.
This event wouldn’t be possible without its many sponsors: Cultiva la Salud, Bless Up Clothing Company, Sunbelt Rentals, Radio Merced, Stephens Media Group (SMG), and KUBB Country 96.3.