By Taylor Brunson
To help celebrate 250 years of freedom, Balance of Nature® proudly joined the community in the annual St. George Independence Day Parade for the ninth consecutive year. This significant parade section featured the largest American flag ever flown—Miss Liberty—, fresh fruit and Guiltless Snacks™, a lively marching band, a patriotic Declaration of Independence float, and We the Future youth participants. More than one hundred team members and volunteers represented Balance of Nature in this historic and patriotic event. It was an honor to be involved in the community again to celebrate and support the values that have helped shape America over the past 250 years.
The focal point of the Balance of Nature parade entry was the 150-foot-long by 78-foot-wide American flag affectionately named “Miss Liberty.” Many St. George locals recognize Miss Liberty from her annual appearance in Snow Canyon State Park during Veterans Day and other ceremonies honoring America’s heroes. Weighing approximately 400 pounds, it took more than 100 volunteers to carry the flag alone. The enduring spirit of the United States of America and the freedoms it celebrates were truly magnified by the display of Miss Liberty as she was thoughtfully led along the parade route.
As part of its commitment to the St. George community, Balance of Nature team members and volunteers handed out fresh apples and Guiltless Snacks™ along the parade route. Paradegoers savored the healthy, simple, and delicious fruit amid the exciting Independence Day event. Some even said the apples were the juiciest, most flavorful they’ve ever eaten!
An exciting section of the parade entry was the Southern Utah University Thunderbird Marching Band. Local musicians playing patriotic songs added a vibrant energy that carried throughout the parade route. The band’s mission is to “march together with pride and determination to strengthen tradition and build community through performed excellence.” Their talent, enthusiasm, and community spirit helped create a memorable experience for parade participants and spectators alike.
Following the band was a Declaration of Independence float decorated by Balance of Nature team members, along with an inspiring group of youths, We the Future, representing United We Pledge—an organization that inspires America’s youth to become more informed and engaged citizens. This was a walking tribute to recognize the generation that will carry forward the freedoms and opportunities established by our nation’s founders. Designed to resemble the Declaration of Independence, the float also served as a tribute to the historic document adopted 250 years ago and reflected the Balance of Nature team members' and volunteers' commitment to celebrating its enduring legacy.
“Every year, volunteering in the parade with my family is an experience I genuinely look forward to. There's something special about standing alongside so many people who are grateful for our country and the freedoms we enjoy. It's a meaningful reminder that patriotism is best expressed through service, gratitude, and community,” said Lindsay R., Balance of Nature team member.
Balance of Nature is deeply grateful for the more than 200 team members and volunteers who showed up to contribute their time and abilities; to the Thunderbird Marching Band for their talented musical addition that set the tone for the parade entry; and for the support from community members who helped appreciate and pay tribute to the powerful impact of Miss Liberty and the values that shape our nation.
It was an honor for Balance of Nature to celebrate a momentous 250 years of independence with the local St. George community. The excitement from volunteers and paradegoers alike was palpable throughout the patriotic event, and there was a true sense of pride and American spirit. The Balance of Nature team looks forward to continuing their involvement in the community and joining next year’s Independence Day parade.
