Clear Creek Amana Marching Band - Eyes Wide Open at Maifest

At Maifest 2014, the Clear Creek Amana Marching Band paraded the entire length (and back) of main Amana. Many locals have commented that the band's presence at the annual parade is a highlight and validates the occasion. The marchers may be small in number, but they certainly liven up the parade route with Sousa music. What else would you expect from the heartland of America?

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SaPaDaPaSo 2013 - Many Faces of Irish Celebration

Cedar Rapids' annual St. Patrick's Day Parade Society (SaPaDaPaSo) stages an hour and a half parade each March 17th regardless of weather conditions. Last year the unseasonable weather provided 82 F temps. This year the parade began with temps at 28 F. That didn't diminish the number of participants or number of watchers (candy gatherers) from coming out to have a good time.

LaSheila Yates, Mrs. Iowa International braved cold temps to wave to the assembled masses, as all queens should. LaSheila will compete in the Mrs. International pageant later this year. Her platform is to encourage young people to study more science, technology, engineering and math (STEM.)

Any excuse to have a good time.

For more SaPaDaPaSo 2013 photos click here.

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