by MaryAnne Block
The 60th annual Fourth of July Lions Parade began right on time at 10 a.m. Thursday, and the heavy clouds threatening rain held off just until after the 1.5-mile parade finished.
The upbeat crowds eagerly looked forward to seeing the entries. Many visitors came from out of town, even out of state, joining locals who lined the streets, sidewalks and front porches of homes along the route.
The parade began with the St. Joseph Legion Post 328 Honor Guard carrying flags. Those marching had not only served in the military during several wars but proudly continue to honor the flag they were willing to fight for.
An unexpected display included the Stearns County Sheriff’s Department. Its members not only drove various vehicles but also rode horses, an ATV and a speed boat on a float. A big Rapid Response Rescue vehicle also joined the parade line-up.
For fans of the “Wild West,” there were the “Wild Creek Entertainers,” who put on an old-fashioned shoot-out while a few ladies pranced along with them in their sequined dresses of that bygone era.
Of course, there was plenty of candy tossed out for kids and adults alike. No hoarders were noted among the group.
Parade Grand Marshal Harvey Pfannenstein and his wife, Carol, rode in a vintage car while waving to those in the crowds that lined the streets and sidewalks.
One question that came up was, “Where are the marching bands?”
Mary Stommes helped coordinate the Lions Club parade. After the parade, she answered the marching-band question.
“We would love to have marching bands every year,” she said. “The Alexandria band does participate every other year. Unfortunately, nearly all bands stop making appearances at the end of June. We have tried and tried but have been unable to locate other willing bands who will perform in July. But we will keep trying. If anyone knows of bands that are available, please let us know.”
The crowd jockeyed for the best place to watch the parade. People of all ages and from many other cities, near and far, enjoyed the pleasant overcast day. Rain showers started about 15 minutes after the parade was finished.
This happy boy was willing to share his candy stash with a complete stranger. The man he offered to share with was not related, but he must have made a good “grandfather figure” in the lad’s mind.
Parade Grand Marshal Harvey Pfannenstein and his wife, Carol, greet the crowds while riding in a vintage automobile in the July 4 Lions Parade in St. Joseph.
Many in the parade line-up were amazed to see the agility and balance of unicyclists as they made their way along the parade route. Here they prepare to do a “loop-de-loop” as they weave through interlocked arms.
Jerry Lanigan of Alexandria is a veteran who was proud to serve his country and pleased to watch the parade. His only disappointment was the absence of any marching bands. A number of others also lamented missing bands and their rousing music.
A front-porch of people along the parade route waits eagerly for the parade to begin. The family members joined Janelle Hennen from Clearwater, who grew up in this home, and her father still lives there. One relative, Joan Bramble, even came all the way from Salt Lake City, Utah to see the parade and family.
A touch of the old “Wild West” was presented by the “Wild Creek Entertainers.” Dressed in period clothes the gunfighters were successful in overcoming “the bad guys.” Several women were also decked out in fancy clothing of bygone days.
