Fourth of July American Heroes Parade: A heartfelt thank you to the community
The Coeur d'Alene Regional Chamber's annual Fourth of July Celebration was a resounding success, bringing the businesses and citizens of this community together in a vibrant celebration of love for our great nation and the men and women who serve in our armed forces.
The American Heroes Parade featured a spectacular display of diverse entries that truly embodied this year’s theme, “America the Beautiful.” The success of this cherished tradition would not have been possible without the generosity and support of our wonderful sponsors, volunteers and the entire Coeur d’Alene community.
We extend our deepest gratitude to our presenting sponsor, Idaho Central Credit Union, our fireworks extravaganza sponsor, The Hagadone Companies, and our partner sponsor, The Coeur d'Alene Casino and Resort. Their significant contributions and collective commitment to our community set the stage for a memorable, family-friendly celebration.
Thank you to our community sponsors who also bolstered the parade's success. We are immensely grateful to AAA Washington, Gates Security, Inspiro, Koerner Furniture and McDonald’s. At the supporting sponsor level, special thanks go out to Atchley Financial Group, Hecla Mining Company, J.A. Bertsch Heating and Cooling, North Idaho Pride Alliance, Springhill Suites Coeur d’Alene by Marriott, StanCraft Companies, Tam's Traveling Toilets, and Washington Trust Bank. Each of these special organizations played vital roles in supporting various aspects of the celebration.
We also recognize the invaluable contributions of our in-kind sponsors, who provided essential goods and services that made the parade and VIP Party so special. Thank you to Adventure Sports Rentals, Blue Zone Marketing, Brooke’s Seaplane Service, Coeur d’Alene Casino Resort Hotel, Coeur d'Alene Press, Coeur d’Alene Tractor, iTrip Coeur d'Alene, Lyfe Coffee Roasters & Public House, Perfection Traffic Control, Starbucks, The Village Bakery, Vine & Olive Eatery & Wine Bar, and Watkins Distributing for generously donating their time, resources and expertise.
Lastly, we are so grateful to our volunteers for donating their precious gift of time to help make this celebration one to remember: Boy Scouts of America, Coeur d’Alene Regional Realtors, Coeur d’Alene Rotary Club, Coeur d’Alene Regional Chamber’s Executive and Membership Outreach Committees, Kootenai County Volunteer Search and Rescue, Leadership Coeur d’Alene, Panhandle Kiwanis Club, Windermere CDA Realty, our parade commentators: Amy Bartoo, Parker Drechsel, Scott Hough and countless awesome friends, family and community members. You are deeply appreciated!
Honoring Community Heroes
This year's parade also honored some of our community's most dedicated and inspiring individuals. Along with our Presenting Sponsor, Idaho Central Credit Union, we were proud to honor Len Crosby as our Military Hero of the Year and Jon Hippler as this year's Grand Marshal. Additionally, John Adams was recognized for his award as the Citizen of the Year, along with fellow nominees Bill Reagan, Heidi Rogers and Nick Swayne. Rick Rasmussen was also celebrated as our Volunteer of the Year. These individuals have made significant contributions to our community, and we loved celebrating and honoring them!
To Our Community
This year was a powerful learning experience for us. We sincerely appreciate all who took the time to send us feedback on our initial parade rules and regulations. Our intention was always to ensure the parade remains a welcoming, family-friendly day of celebration and community. We pivoted quickly to address the concerns and are so thankful for the grace provided by all. A heartfelt thank you to our parade participants and attendees, who gathered peacefully to celebrate our nation’s independence with kindness and good old family fun. Happy summer, Coeur d’Alene!
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Linda Coppess is president and CEO of the Coeur d'Alene Regional Chamber of Commerce.
Coppess