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Letters: Parade meant to present fine military band

Dear Editor,

Regarding the Sept. 8 editorial, "Parade? What parade?" we are distressed that the U.S. Marine Band parade, held at 2 p.m. Sept. 3, was cause for discontent by the Pleasanton Weekly and the public. The statement that the video you watched lasted 1 minute and 22 seconds is confusing, and I'm sure gives some the impression that the entire parade lasted that amount of time. In reality, the four-and-one-half block route took considerably longer.

The Marine Band was preceded by the four-man Color Guard. Bringing up the rear were two Highland Dancers carrying a banner, a piper and a re-enactment "Highland Warrior," who intermingled at times with the folks watching, to their apparent delight. The spectators increased as the parade made its way up Main Street. At the "Arch" the crowd was nearly as large as the "March Under the Arch" had been in previous years. Along the route many spectators applauded the Marine Band.

We are deeply distressed that the parade has caused any anguish among residents. Our aim was to promote our games at the Fairgrounds but also to give to the people of Pleasanton a chance to see and hear a fine military band.

Bottom line, we agree that the "parade" was too small. We have two choices for the future: Either do not plan any activity downtown on the Friday preceding the Games, or expand the event to include more entities. Also, we would consider holding the parade closer to 4 p.m. to allow school children to attend.

Floyd P. Busby, Parade Chairman Caledonian Club of San Francisco