A little news and views for ya...
Here are a few things I noticed at the parade in my hometown, The 'Ween.
> It was a very long parade...not necessarily due to entries, they just went very very slowly.
> There were at least 15 fire engines or fire department related entries. It is a realitvely small town (7000 people). I swear that every little shit town within 50 miles brought their fire equipment to the 'Ween for the parade. My only question is, what happens if there is a fire?
> A very unkept, almost homless looking guy riding his bike in the parade. It was sad. I couldn't figure out if he was lost, or just wanted to be a part of it all.
> Kid's were carrying ice cream buckets of candy home. It was better than halloween.
> Cops on bike just don't look that intimidating. Especailly when their guts were haning over their service belts. The bikes even had little sirens and flashing lights, as if someone was going to pull over if they saw them behind.
> The Shriners were driving their little go-kart cars around, which is always pretty cool. The best part about it this year was when one of their mufflers fell off their little car. This created a "white-trash" feel to thier show, as the "modification" increased his noise output to shitty moped like proportions. One of his fellow Shriners had to use the stick from one of his flags to pick up the muffler in fear of burning it to his palm.
Post-Parade:
> We skipped the fireworks and headed straight for the bar. (good choice, I know)
> They had a mechanical bull at one of the bars and a buddy of mine (Olander) wore some chaps, boots, and a cowboy hat as he attempted to ride. It took him longer to get his hand set than it did to ride.
> After-bar at D's house. It was packed and crazy as always. My wife said; "Time to go." I replied, " It's only 3:30, it's early." Yet, I realized I was getting to the point of no return in the alcohol department, and decided she was right. I barely rememeber half the night.
So, I have to say, all in all it was a kick'in fourth. You can't beat going back home and partying with your pals.
Hope everyone else had a great fourth also.