Preston Cordell, 7, of Smithville waves from atop his dad's car, one of about a dozen Mini Coopers that formed a part of Round Rock's July Fourth parade. Politicians, cheerleaders, classic cars and horses took part also, and oppressive heat didn't keep the crowds away. Photos by Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman

Matt Garner waves an American flag as he marches with members of Celebration Church in the Fourth of July Parade in downtown Round Rock on Monday July 4, 2011.

Left to right, Flo Gonzalez, 17, Sarah Lewis, 17, Tyler Soberanes, 15, and Jessica Knowles, 16, of the Georgetown High School ROTC Honor Guard, march down Main Street at the Fourth of July Parade.