We came, we marched, we sweated.  That’s one way to sum up our experience at the Lewiston Roundup Parade on Saturday, September 6.  But that simple explanation doesn’t reflect the fun and collegiality of the morning.  

NPC Dems Pete, Bill, Patty, Missy, Dan, Deena, Molly, and Mike were joined by our friends from Latah County – Brad, Kathy, Margaret, Heather, and Karen.  We gathered on Snake River Avenue in spot number 75 of the parade lineup.  For an hour our so we hung signs and decorations on Pete’s truck, put “Idaho Democrats” stickers on Tootsie Roll Pops, watched the Rodeo princesses ride past in all their finery, and generally enjoyed being outdoors with some like-minded people.

The theme of our entry was “Stronger Together – In town or on the farm”.  At four locations along the parade route, the announcers said:

Here come the Nez Perce County Democrats, with a message of unity and hope: “
Stronger Together — In town or on the farm. Whether you live in town or on the farm, we believe every voice matters. Nez Perce County Democrats are proud to stand up for democracy, opportunity, and Idaho values!” 

Marching through downtown, it seemed that there were more spectators at this parade than in the last couple of years. And lots of people acknowledged our presence.  Some waved heartily and cheered.  Others were more surreptitious, giving us a small wave or a thumbs up.  A few people just smiled and nodded.  The overall impression we came away with was that there were more people along the route who were sympathetic to our cause than we might have thought.  

Hopefully, we can continue to win hearts and minds between now and the mid-term elections.

Now some photos, all courtesy of Pete Gertonson.

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