Idaho Falls

MAYOR'S WELCOME Happy Fourth Everyone! For nearly five decades, the Idaho Falls parade has grown to the point where it is now one of the biggest, not-to-be-missed in the state, while the evening Melaleuca Freedom Celebration draws spectators from across the nation. Idaho Falls knows how to do this day the right way! In addition to the events and activities, Independence Day provides an opportunity for us to remember the unwavering journey of this nation's Founders, who in 1776 declared the United States of America would be a beacon of equality to all humanity. And to this day, it is the brave men and women in uniform who safeguard those sacred liberties in a sometimes dangerous world. They are not, and never should be, far from our thoughts. As we, our families and friends enjoy this day with food, music and games, please remember those who are joining us from out of town. Let's show all of our visitors what Idaho Falls hospitality is all about. This includes the parade, the Liberty Festival on the Falls, professional baseball courtesy of the Idaho Falls Chukars, our great cuisine, arts, parks, the River Walk and of course the magnificent display of fireworks on the river. We citizens have put much love and care into this outstanding city on the Snake River. We have much to celebrate. Enjoy! Wishing you and yours a safe celebration, Rebecca Casper, Mayor, City of Idaho Falls 2016 Parade Grand Marshal Linden Bateman will serve as the 2016 Parade Grand Marshal of the Idaho Falls Independence Day Parade. Bateman has been an Idaho State Representative since 2010 representing District 33 (R) and has served five terms in the Idaho House of Representatives from 1977 to 1986. Bateman's love for Idaho runs deep and shows in everything he does. From establishing March 4 as the official Idaho Day in celebration of the anniversary Abraham Lincoln signed the Idaho Territory into law in 1863 to chairing the committee that established the first historical museum in Bonneville County, urging Idaho citizens to display both the American and Idaho flags and serving his state and community in many other capacities. Bateman is also a Liberty Bell award recipient and retired educator with 43 years experience as a public school teacher and student- teacher supervisor for ISU and BYU-Idaho. 2 | I N D E P E N D E N C E D A Y P A R A D E P R O G R A M 2 0 1 6 PHOTO COURTESY GREATER IDAHO FALLS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

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