ro Hometown SPIRIT Huntington Woods parade exemplifies American pride. Jeff Aisen of Huntington Woods portrays Uncle Sam in the parade. KERI GUTEN COHEN Story Development Editor AMY KESSLER Photographer Joan and David Schwartz of Huntington Woods pull Noah Pike in his decorated wagon. r , or 34 years, the Huntington Woods parade has been a symbol of American pride and spirit. This year was no exception. Residents and friends turned out to celebrate the Independence - Day holiday on Sunday, July 3, in small- town tradition — with homemade floats, strolling politicians, kids in wagons and fun for all. The theme this year was "Stars and Stripes." Parade Grand Marshall was Milt Wilcox and his award-winning Big Jumping Dog, Sparky Anderson. Of course, the parade wouldn't have been complete without Huntington Woods resi- dent Charlie Marcuse, the Singing Hot Dog Man, a fixture at Comerica Park, and Uncle Sam, portrayed for the last 15 years by Jeff Aisen. The parade also was the time to celebrate all that's good in Huntington Woods. For example, twins Beth and Renee Mikon, who head to the University of Michigan this fall, were awarded the city's Virginia Jones Spirit Award for their involvement and dedication to the city; the Berkley High School Marching Band provided spirited music; and volunteers passed out seeds to plant, courtesy of the city's environmental advisory board. And, perhaps best of all, the weather cooperated. ❑ Charlie Marcuse of Huntington Woods, the Singing Hot Dog Man, struts his stuff during the parade. Renee and Beth Mikon of Huntington Woods display their spirit awards. Jenny Pollack and Hannah Moiseev, both of Huntington Woods, lead off the Berkley High School Marching Band. IN 7/ 7 2005 24