We had an odd thing happen at last year's parade in Juneau.

1) A man wearing a George Bush mask and with an anti-war sign fore and aft pranced and minced before the crowd. He placed himself just before the 'Veterans for Peace' delegation. He got both applause and boos.

2) It was reported in the paper that the Parade Board's dictum was that controversial things of that nature would no longer be allowed, on the basis of not being 'respectful', that political messages were not appropriate.

3) Letters to the Editor ensued, both pro and con. The pros made the point that the parade extolled American freedom. The cons said they were offended by the "inappropriateness" of the caricature. The pros responded with What about the walking and waving candidates for office? What if you don't like them or their message?

4) The Board capitulated.

5) The theme of this year's parade will be 'Freedom of Speech'.

All is well.