Independence Day is one of my favorite holidays, especially when I am in my hometown. The morning breakfast, the parade, activities in the park, and the Bit & Spur Rodeo bring back memories of past Fourth of Julys. Tooele has a long and proud history of celebrating the Fourth and this year was no exception. Our city officials should be lauded for their efforts. But a lot more people live in Tooele now and the parade route has become more crowded. As I drove on Main Street Tuesday [June 30] evening, I noticed a few spots already staked out — reserved. For the next few days, more and more folding chairs, wrapped in rope or caution tape, began to appear. This practice is very tacky and should be addressed. Officials in the Days of ’47 parade curbed this practice by imposing rules prohibiting reserving spots, staking “claims” or camping until 6 p.m. the night before the parade. Perhaps it is time our city officials should take a look at this problem. Another problem that parade officials should look into is the throwing of candy from parade entrants. This activity has become not only a nuisance for those wanting to watch the parade, but is quickly becoming a safety issue. Parents are cheering on aggressive children to get more candy. We already have a holiday for candy: Halloween. How about sitting with your child to watch the parade together and discussing what it means to live in the United States. That is what the Fourth is all about.

Marty Myers

Tooele