Darragh Doiron 7/3/09 First Friday art in folder

By Darragh Doiron

The News staff writer

GROVES — First Friday in Groves is already about as all-American as it gets, with families gathered for games, a clown’s balloons and music. On July 3, eve of America’s birthday, downtown Groves became drenched in red, white and blue.

Gloria Moreno wore her American pride on her head, with a stars and stripes visor. She represented the Mexican Heritage Dancers and paused a minute to reflect on her love of the United States of America.

“I’m so proud to be in the best country ever. We may not be perfect, but we’ve got it together better than the rest of the world,” she said.

As children gathered for a bike parade, Doris Land of Bridge City shopped for a dresser to replace furniture lost in Hurricane Ike. While her material losses were a setback, she said she is unclenching her hand to let God refill it, and also had thoughts of patriotism at hand, especially about worshiping as she pleases.

“I appreciate the freedom that we have,” she said. “We have the right to walk the streets with our heads held high.”

First Friday organizer Bree Babin said visitors were in a celebratory mood for the holiday. Those who have stayed in town for the weekend kicked everything off Friday, she said.

Former Groves mayor Jack Dorgan, who attended with his wife, Elizabeth, said his main reason for showing up was to aim for current mayor Brad P. Bailey in the dunking booth.

Karen Theis of Courtyard Cafe said much of her staff is on holiday, so the restaurant moved chipped beef sandwich sales to the sidewalk.

“We’re excited with the crowd that’s coming,” she said.

Charlie Schultz wore red as she made sales at the Painted Porch.

“I really enjoy working here because of the people who come in. I lived in Port Neches, now I know as much about Groves as I do Port Neches,” she said.