Orleans Fourth of July Committee picks three parade theme finalists for student vote

ORLEANS — April 29, 2026 — Orleans Fourth of July Parade Committee narrows 2026 theme to three finalists, defers Grand Marshal pick. Meeting Tuesday, the committee agreed on three parade theme candidates to send to Orleans Elementary School for a student vote: "Sand and Sea, 250 Years Free," "From Sea to Shining Sea, Orleans Celebrates America's 250th," and "Seashells, Sun, and 250 Years of Fun" — all referencing the nation's 250th anniversary, which committee members said dominated public feedback on the panel's Facebook page. The Grand Marshal decision was tabled after a member disclosed that leading candidate Charles Hollander-Essig, a music teacher with roughly 50 years in the district, had served in the same role approximately two years ago; a second candidate, retired town counsel Mike Ford, was described as having held that role for 40 years before stepping down at the end of 2025. Two new associate members, Bonnie Hartung and Christy Mack, were welcomed at the start of the meeting. The committee divided pre-parade tasks — signage refresh, volunteer recruitment, and bin and decoration purchasing — with separate $400 budget lines for signs and decorations; a $700 Chatham Valet golf cart for judges and Select Board members was also confirmed in the approved budget. The next meeting is May 19, 2026, at 5 p.m.