In the featured image above are, from left to right: Vickie Fadness, George Grenley, Louise Henricksen, Patrice Yeatter, Pete Gertonson, Molly Steele, and Robin Weldy. Mike Johnston took the photo.
On Saturday, November 15, a group of NPC Dems met on Snake River Avenue in Lewiston to line up for the Lewiston Veterans Day Parade. It was a clear, crisp morning and the worries we’d had earlier in the week about rain were dispelled as we gathered under a blue sky with a few high clouds.
Traffic along Snake River Avenue was steady as people, some wearing military uniforms or unit jackets, arrived to take their places. We saw restored military vehicles, antique cars, lots of pickup trucks and trailers,scout troops, and a few sports cars. There was a festive atmosphere – people seemed happy to be out on a weekend morning to pay tribute to veterans.
Several members of our team were busy putting the final touches on the truck and trailer that was decorated with banners, posters, and red, white, and blue bunting.
Across the street from where we were parked, Kaylee Peterson and a member of her campaign staff were hanging banners on a restored fire engine. At one point, a WWII-vintage fighter plane flew overhead, with a plume of white smoke billowing out of its tail.
The parade was scheduled to begin at 11:11am, and it probably did, but it was closer to 11:20 when our section (space #54) began to move. We crept up Snake River Avenue and then made the turn onto Main Street and the fun really began.
The trailer we were towing had an amplified speaker at the front, and we played rock anthems, folk music, and some reggae tunes as we made our way through town. Inside the trailer was an inflatable figure, like you see at car lots. He bobbed and weaved, sometimes in time with the music.
There didn’t seem to be as many people watching this parade as were present for the Rodeo Roundup parade in September, but most seemed to be enjoying the show as it passed.
Reflections on the experience
A couple days after the parade, we asked the participants about their experience. Here’s some of what they told us.
Pete Gertonson appreciated “the comradery with those volunteering to help make the parade entry happen and the positive reactions from the public. Thumbs up, cheering, clapping.”
Patrice Yeatter said, “I really enjoyed participating in the Veterans Day parade, because it brought the community together to support our veterans and show them how much we care. I loved that there were lots of decorated vehicles representing a wide variety of businesses, charitable groups and citizens who all compose the wonderful city of Lewiston! And you couldn’t have found a lovelier day for a parade, either! I think it went off really well. I wouldn’t change a thing.”
Mike Johnston said, “From my seat in the bed of the truck, I enjoyed seeing the reactions of people as we passed by. The kids laughed and pointed at the inflatable man. People of all ages sang along with the music. Many smiled, waved, or gave us the thumbs up. I didn’t hear a single negative comment. Then again, I couldn’t hear much of anything over the music! But I think it’s very important that we continue to show up, spread the Democrats’ message, and, like in this instance, show we have both empathy and a sense of humor.”
Robin Weldy shared a special moment she had while walking the parade route and handing out candy. “Have you ever received a hug from a perfect stranger and without words knew what their heart was saying? This girl that hugged me was 13-15 years old standing with friends/family and boldly stepped up to me with wide arms to give the most genuine hug. Our eyes met and I thanked her. If I even let one person know that they mattered in this world, I have served my purpose on this earth. Today was a gift to my soul.”
Image courtesy of Olivia Anderson/The Lewiston Tribune
It was a great event. Please consider joining us for the next one.
Thanks to George, Louise, Pete, Molly, Robin, Vickie, Patrice, and Mike for helping us show up at the parade and remind our neighbors that Democrats are working to make lives better for everyone.
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