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Parades And Beach Trips Mark Independence Day In New Jersey

RIDGEWOOD,NJ(CBSNewYork) -- It was a special celebration for many in New Jersey, just months after Sandy ravaged the Garden State, flags and revelers were out as residents took in parades and hit the beach.

In Ridgewood the annual 4th of July parade is such a big event that some residents stake out their spots well in advance.

"About six days ahead of time if you want to get the ultimate spot," Lisa Karoon told CBS 2's Janelle Burrell.

Parents use the event as a way to instill an early appreciation for freedom in their children.

"I mean look what's going on in Egypt, the struggle over there. And that's something that we fought for hundreds of years ago," Bill  Bond said, "Many people died for us to have our freedom, so it's a great day for America."

This year's celebration was extra-special, in part, due to one of the guests who was on hand for the event, Governor Chris Christie.

"To have the governor here, especially after this year the hurricane and everything. So it's nice and I'm surprised he came all the way up here," Karen Rahnfeld said.

At the shore beach goers soaked up the rays and rode the waves on a beautiful summer day.

"It's great, feels almost every day it has rained, nice to have one good day to go out on the beach," Briana Bianchini told CBS 2's Christine Sloan.

The ocean offered some needed relief from the heat and humidity, but some swimmers couldn't decide whether to stay in or get out.

"It's cold, it's not cold, it's cold. It feels nice, it's calm," Jessie and Ali Lisante said as they went back and forth over water temperature.

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