Morton Grove's 2012 July 4th Parade

Record-tying heat--102 degrees--didn't dampen spirits during Morton Grove's annual July 4th parade. 

After the fire trucks and police cars passed, the Morton Grove American Legion kicked off the celebration, followed by a car driven by Village President Dan Staackman--while trustees Bill Grear and Daniel DiMaria waved from the back seat.

Several marching bands took part, including the Blue Stars Drum and Bugle Corps from LaCross, Wisconsin, the Troopers from Casper, Wyoming, and the Glassmen from Toledo.

Perhaps the most popular parade attraction was a military vehicle that sprayed water on the sweltering crowd.

The Medinah Shriners, with their motorcyles, antique fire trucks, "flying carpets," and even an airplane of sorts dominated the parade.