Retiring teacher, coach urges Colony grads to ‘find their 68’
By Jeremiah Bartz Frontiersman.com A football coach using a hockey reference as the centerpiece for his keynote address may
3 min read
WASILLA — It will take more than a little to dampen the spirits and patriotism at the annual Wasilla Fourth of July Parade.
Overcast skies and a steady drizzle brought out a rainbow of umbrellas Thursday lining Nelson Avenue and Herning Street through downtown as 72 parade entries entertained thousands of Valley Fourth of July revelers.
Grand Marshal Randy Robinson led the way as youngsters clamored for candy, adults salivated over classic automobiles and politicians glad-handed the crowd.
“It seems it’s about candy and seeing politicians and their posters,” said Matt Stahl of Palmer, who’s active Air Force. He brought his family out to the parade “because the kids need to get out and see this stuff, and get some candy.”
Being a military family, Stahl said his kids — GraciLou, 9, and Jack, 6 — are learning about the meaning behind holidays like the Fourth of July.
“It’s about our freedom,” he said. “I’m in the military, so they hear that all the time about what we do for our country and how we got our freedom. … I have friends in the desert right now.”
Along the south side of Herning Street across from Wasilla City Hall, Thomas and Isaac Wojtacha were creative in their efforts to stay dry, scrounging a couple of sticks to prop a blanket over their heads. Along with 15-year-old sister Molly, the kids had varying reasons why they were looking forward to the parade.
“Um, the candy,” Isaac said.
“Yeah,” echoed Thomas. “And our little brother’s in the parade.”
That would be Jacob Wojtacha, who was part of the MSC Soccer float.
A little farther down Herning is 3-year-old Elaine Baisch, who seems to sense the excitement building as the parade starts.
“This is the first year she’s going to remember it, I think,” said mom, Abigail Palmer-Baisch.
Does little Elaine know about the candy to be had at parades?
“Not yet, but I’m sure she’ll catch on fast,” Abigail said. “I brought a bag for her. She’ll go for it, I’m sure.”
Contact Greg Johnson at 352-2269 or
greg.johnson@frontiersman.com.
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