Parade your valuable independence

Inter Lake editorial

There's a parade Saturday morning down Main Street in Kalispell - just as there was a parade a week ago and the week before that. Next month, there will be another parade at fair time.

Each parade has a slightly different theme, but the key element underpinning all of them is that we still live in a free country that allows and embraces such public assemblies.

This Saturday's Fourth of July parade celebrates, above all, a little something called independence. This weekend we celebrate 233 years of a concept that started July 4, 1776.

It's something that people in places such as Iran surely envy as those who try to parade are met with harsh oppression from the ruling regime.

Saturday's processions of patriotism aren't limited to Main Street Kalispell. From Polson to Polebridge and points in between, flags and floats will parade through towns.

When those parades roll down the roads on Saturday, appreciate what the flags, balloons and red-white-and-blue decor stand for.

We still have independence. Cherish it.

THE FLATHEAD County Animal Shelter always can use some help, but now it's really needed.

The shelter has been saddled with the sudden burden of 25 huskies rescued from a filthy trailer in Evergreen last week - and since then 16 new puppies have arrived.

Understandably, the shelter staff and its regular volunteer allies are stretched thin at a time of year when things are usually busy anyway.

Not many people know it, but there tends to be an influx of dogs, frightened by fireworks, ending up at the shelter during the Fourth of July weekend.

So the call is out for help of all kinds: willing adopters for the pack of huskies, suitable foster homes to provide temporary care, volunteer help at the shelter and cash donations.

Those willing to help should contact Kirsten Holland, the shelter director, at 752-1310 or by e-mail at: kholland@flathead.mt.gov.

IF YOU HAVE a child with a health challenge, the Shriners can be a godsend.

The Shriners not only operate children's hospitals that provide free care for youths, but local Shrine clubs raise money to help for the many trips required for medical treatment.

People such as Noah Hannah of Kalispell - undergoing long-term treatment for scoliosis - and his family can attest to the care provided through the Shriners.

There's an easy way to support the Shriners: Attend the Shrine Circus when it's in Kalispell on July 7. The circus raises money for the Shriners' good works, plus the three-ring entertainment is great family fun.