July 9, 2002
Many of the 400 who turned out for the River Falls annual parade agreed that after the events of Sept. 11, this was a particularly important July 4 to celebrate.
Even if it was nearly 100 degrees.
"There's obviously a more focused spirit of nationalism since 9-11," said Bob Kemp, who set up a lemonade and water stand for people in the parade. "Some benefactor puts out flags every year. Usually they are all gone within two days, but this year they're all still out here. … There's a subtle respect for demonstrations of patriotism."
"It's the one event of the year that pulls the entire community together," said Vince Vaghi. "I've been doing this for 15 years and my youngest daughter is 14. She's too cool now to be in the parade, but I think it's cool."
"It's the epitome of what the 4th of July should be," said Winni Buchanan.
This year, Nancy Patch replaced Bonnie Perkins as "Mrs. Firecracker," the spirit-inducing leader of the famed kazoo band in the parade. Mrs. Firecracker's other duties included emceeing the event, riding the lead car, and leading parade-goers in the "Pledge of Allegiance" and the singing of "God Bless America" before the parade.
"It's a role I really love," said Patch. "I love this country so much."
Fire and rescue vehicles from the Cabin John Park Volunteer Fire Department, which participates each year, topped off the parade.
"We get to help support the community," said Lt. James Williams. "And I think it emphasizes our dedication and commitment to our country and community."
Firefighter Mark Livingstone said that since Sept. 11, "I'm much more patriotic and I appreciate much more now what our forefathers did for us."
THE CIVIC ASSOCIATION of River Falls plans and supports the event each year. About two months of planning and a dozen association representatives were necessary to make sure the parade and celebration ran smoothly.
The community has been putting on the parade every year for more than 17 years, said Nancy Garrick, head coordinator of the Citizens Association of River Falls.
"It's very traditional, and we're striving for an old-style home feeling," she said.
River Falls started a new tradition last year when they erected a new flag pole in honor of Bonnie Perkins and her 15-year commitment to the community as the previous "Mrs. Firecracker."
Since then, the Cub Scout Color Guard raises the flag, and the community recites the Pledge of Allegiance before the parade begins.
Following the parade, parade participants and spectators alike gathered for swimming, tennis, games and a picnic.
"The picnic is all American: hot dogs, hamburgers and potato salad," said Garrick.
Doug Stevens heads the egg toss and all field games each year.
"IT'S A LOT of volunteer hours from a lot of people in the community," said Garrick. "Usually there are around 500 people participating. We were closer to 400 people this year, I think because of the heat and because July 4 fell on a Thursday this year."
Garrick added that before the parade each year, there are one- and two-mile "fun runs" that start at 9 a.m. Pat Clark has been in charge of those for the last two years.
"She gets up bright and early to get donuts and orange juice and she has kids timing the runners," said Garrick.