Holiday means more than just a parade

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Story Published: Jul 4, 2009 at 12:30 PM MST

Story Updated: Jul 4, 2009 at 9:24 PM MST

By Wes Horrocks

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POCATELLO - After weeks of planning and preparation the Fourth of July parade in Pocatello drew a crowd of thousands of people. Don Spiker, Pocatello resident said, "It's just a family tradition."

Jeni Foster, a Downey resident added, "I've been here since I was a kid."

Thousands of people lined the streets in Pocatello this morning for the Elk's Lodge 10th annual Fourth of July parade. Spiker said, "It's good to be out here and see everybody else out here."

There were traditional floats, some impressive performers, and don't forget about the Channel Three crew.

But for most kids the main attraction is simple. Sierra Johnson, 10-years-old said, "Getting candy."

The bigger kids had other things on their minds. Greg Cleverley, Aberdeen resident said, "People bring out pretty neat cars and things that they have."

But along with the colorful floats and candy a lot of parents out here are hoping that their kids learn that the Fourth of July means something a lot more.

Tara Cleverley, mother of three said, "They're excited to see the parades and all, but at the same time we remind them about our country and how we have the freedoms we have because of the people who have served for our country."

Foster said, "This is a good place for them to come and start to learn, and then it goes throughout the day."

Patrick Grimm, a Pocatello resident added, "It's just an overwhelming experience. When it comes, people really do respect veteran's and for what the Fourth of July stands for-which is freedom."

An idea that is already sinking in. I asked Carson Foster, an 8-year-old, what he thinks of on the Fourth of July. He replied, "I think of freedom."

There were several dozen floats in this year's parade, and organizers are hoping to see it grow even larger in the future.

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