Petersburg is ramping up preparations for this year's star-spangled celebration as Independence Day draws near.

On Monday, it was announced that "Let Freedom Ring" would be the theme for floats participating in the Fourth of July parade, beating out other contenders "Tour America," "Create Hope in the World," and "Celebrate U.S."

The Petersburg Chamber of Commerce is organizing the parade and Administrator Mindy Lopez is encouraging any and all local organizations, nonprofits, churches, business, and other interested parties to put together patriotic floats.

"We would love for this parade t...