Roseville’s 100th birthday is a landmark anniversary deserving of recognition, and the much-anticipated Fourth of July parade is the perfect way to keep the centennial revelry going.

Just days after the city announced the parade’s cancellation due to budget constraints, volunteer organizers stepped up to pitch in and make sure the annual event would go on without a hitch.

Why would a city dish out funds and support for a parade in the face of having to eliminate some employee positions?

But the decision to cancel the parade rallied a community and brought supporters together to ensure its success.

Residents like John Javidan and companies like Comcast stepped up to the plate to ensure this important event that honors our independence.

In these tough financial times, it is comforting to see a community rally together to save such an important, long-standing tradition. It is compelling to see a small group of residents and business owners stand up and say, ‘If the city can’t do it, we will.’ And it is awe-inspiring to know a community can create such an impact on the parade’s future.

We are fortunate to live in Roseville – a city that is home to so many active and engaged residents and businesses. A city that really cares.

I look forward to seeing you at the parade.

Assemblyman Ted Gaines,

R-Roseville,

4th Assembly District