Downtown Parade to Honor Olympians

Local Olympians will be honored and recognized for their efforts in a hometown parade in downtown Oxnard beginning at 9:30 a.m. today.

Boxers Fernando Vargas and Carlos Martinez and David Laut, the 1984 bronze medalist in the shotput competition, will be presented with certificates by city, county, state and federal officials.

The athletes are scheduled to ride convertibles from 8th and B streets to to the front steps of City Hall at 300 W. 3rd St. Food and beverages, including hot dogs and taquitos, will be available.

Mariachi bands and Oxnard’s Ballet Folklorico will offer entertainment.

Although the Atlanta Olympics ended in disappointment for Vargas, and in the first round for Martinez, the parade recognizes their dedication and hard work, Councilman Dean Maulhardt said.

“I can’t think of anything more positive than being called an Olympian,” Maulhardt said.