To the Editor:

This is not a thank you letter, nor is it political, but it is an honest review of the parade held Saturday, Aug. 12, in John Day.

It was great fun to be in the parade; people actually threw candy to some of those who were participants in the parade. There were political themes, views, candidates and others, but all was congenial. Before the parade, everyone at the starting point was polite, personable, helpful, open and interesting.

This parade was exemplary of what a parade in small town USA should be. Nearly every house and business along the route was ready, waiting, and excited to see the parade entries. Everyone waved and smiled, and I mean everyone from ages 1 to 100.

I had a deep feeling of pride simply to be a participant. Again I am reminded of just why I love this country, this state and particularly rural Central and Eastern Oregon, my home.

W. Mark Stringer

Nyssa