Thousands gather for holiday parade

Friday, July 5, 2002 | 9:43 a.m.

Neither the threat of terrorist attacks nor the desert heat could wilt the spirits of thousands of Las Vegans gathered Thursday morning for the seventh annual Summerlin Patriotic Parade.

"This year's parade is more important than any other, as it shows that the American people still know how to have a good time and celebrate their country," Las Vegas Mayor Oscar Goodman said just before stepping onto "Big Red" the oldest firetruck in the Las Vegas Fire and Rescue fleet.

"Big Red," carrying Goodman, Las Vegas City Councilman Larry Brown and Fire Chief Dave Washington, was one of more than 52 participants in the parade sponsored by the Howard Hughes Corp. that lasted just under two hours.

Shade stations with water and misting systems helped parade participants keep cool in the 94-degree morning heat as they lined up along Hillpointe Road before the 9 a.m. start. Spectators found shade in the trees along the American flag-dotted route.

"Every time we do this we get more efficient. We almost have it down to a science," Summerlin Hospital marketing manager Stacy Lee-Harrington said, as she talked about how her group has tried to beat the heat in their last five years of marching in the parade. "We love being here, we enjoy being a part of the community."

American capitalism also thrived, as groups ranging from the Red Rock Swim Club to young entrepreneur Jessica Vanalfen, 8, sold ice-cold water to thirsty spectators.

Miss Nevada Teen USA Kathryn Bigler was more nervous than hot before what was her first parade appearance, but she was glad to be part of the festivities.

"I think it is very important for us to celebrate our patriotism, especially with Sept. 11," said Bigler, who recently graduated from Palo Verde High School.

The attacks of Sept. 11 and the heroism it spawned were on the minds of both the participants and the spectators, as the fire, police and military officials in the parade drew the most applause. " Hats Off to Heroes," was written on a float sponsored by Rampart Casino that honored firemen, police officers, service members, nurses, teachers and coaches.

"We live in the greatest country on earth, and we live in the greatest city in that country," Goodman told the spectators gathered near Trails Center Park as the firetruck he was riding paused at the grandstand. "I am so glad you are all out here to celebrate our country and show that no one is going to put fear in us. We are going to keep on going and doing whatever it takes to keep our country great."

The celebration, marshaled by KLAS-TV Channel 8 news anchors John Gilbert and Polly Gonzalez, was broadcast live by local news station Las Vegas ONE Cox cable channels 1 and 39.

The entries paused in front of a grandstand near Trails Center Park, where dance groups such as the Magical Hula Girls, Jazzercise and ABC Dance Studio performed.

One of the most original entries was from Costco Wholesale, as enthusiastic employees pushed along carts of food and shopping carts decorated with red, white and blue ribbon and flowers. The group performed a synchronized routine to "Push It," winning the Uncle Sam Award.