Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

The Albert Lea-Freeborn County Chamber of Commerce on Thursday announced the Albert Lea dance team will serve as the grand marshals of this year’s Third of July Parade.

The theme for the parade will be “Dancing in the Streets: Celebrating Community Successes.”

Shari Sprague, executive director of the chamber, said there were several reasons the dance team was selected for the recognition — most obviously because they wanted to celebrate the success of the team qualifying for state for the first time in the history of the program.

The team also represents the spirit and talent of local youth and has had exceptional dedication and hard work in their training and performances, serving as role models for other youth in the community, she said. The team members embody positivity, sportsmanship and teamwork and foster a sense of unity and inclusivity.

She said in addition to the team members themselves, the team has also had inspirational leaders, who have provided mentorship and guidance and instilled valuable life skills and leadership qualities in team members.

She hopes the parade will be a celebration of excellence and that the community can come together to celebrate the talent of its youth, and in turn inspire others to pursue their passions and dreams.

In addition to the successes of the dance team, she hopes the parade encourages participation from all in the community, showcasing a variety of achievements.

“Whether it’s commemorating a business anniversary, honoring an individual’s award or highlighting the accomplishments of clubs, teams and organizations, we aim to celebrate any and all of the diverse successes that make our community vibrant,” Sprague said.