STORY AND PHOTOS BY KAREN BOSSICK

Kathleen Eder never dreamed that the Wood River Women’s Foundation would one day serve as Grand Marshals in the Fourth of July Parade when she joined the organization nearly 20 years ago. But on Friday many of the philanthropic organization’s members turned out for Hailey’s parade, with founding members and current board members riding in two wagons.

Among the founding members present was Barbara Thrasher, who hatched the idea for the organization with Jo Murray as they rode the chairlift during a Mountain Masters class at Sun Valley Resort.

“We started with 35 women and we never thought it would get so big,” said Eder who served as the membership coordinator for many years. “Now, it’s more than 300 women and we’re  celebrating our 20th anniversary this summer with a Roaring Twenties party at The Argyros. It’s just a great group of women who have funded everything from girl’s softball to the Smiley Creek Fire Association.

One float featured a Statue of Liberty head representing what they called the “decapitation of freedom and justice.”

The Foundation is a good way to get to know the community, Eder added.

“I tell people that are new that the best way to get involved is to get on the grants committee. You learn about what’s going on with the nonprofits in the community and you even go on site visits.”

Among those watching the Wood River Women’s Foundation wagons go by was Melody Bowyer.

She grew up in Shanghai and came to the United States as a teenager to finish high school in Sacramento so she could pursue college in this country.

The Sawtooth Rangers had their rodeo queens. State Farm Insurance had its bronc riders.

“I know the country’s going through a lot right now, but Independence Day is a day to set aside differences and celebrate our commonalities,” she said. “The parade’s always fun, and I really like a good burger and hot dog. We didn’t have those in China when I was growing up.”

Seven-year-old Belia and Bella Salinas of Bellevue were more interested in the candy being thrown their way.

“I think the best part of the day is hanging out with family. But for them it’s definitely the candy,” said Dion Salinas who was enjoying watching the girls with his wife Belia.

A campfire followed a wildland firefighter.

Belia and Bella Salinas were among a couple thousand people who watched the parade, which took place under bright sunshine following an early morning downpour.