Queens

Today is the 24th of July, Days of '47, Pioneer Day, a state holiday. I work for a state institution, so I get it off. But really, most people do. This is when Utah culture, good, bad, kitschy and unique in it's raw folk artness, expresses itself as a parade. Oh, what a parade. Previous parades also tagged as kitsch. Had the old camera then, huge difference.

We watched from the Library again, in cool comfort. Although with the clouds, it would not have been so bad. Also had D's parents with us, so we had to reign in our less than positive (snide) remarks about The Church.* There was plenty else to mock.

We have a theme! I wondered how far a parade would get about ironing, but who was I to judge?



Horses this year. Sadly (although I've never been to it myself) the Horse parade, traditionally the week previous, was cancelled, due to equine herpes in the spring. The outbreak is under control now, although I'm sure they were taking precautions.


The Mormon Battalion, not quite up to fighting strength these days, no doubt for the best.


These young men in black and white, and name-tags were all over. I think they should be made to walk the route, in formation, maybe a little Drill & Ceremony.



After all, these beauty queens hoofed it. In high heels. They are my heroes today.


A float went by later, set up to showcase such young women in formal dress, but no one was on it. Quite the saddest thing.

*This is Utah. Salt Lake City. THAT church.

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