Big salute — Utahns display patriotism, optimism for Fourth of July

The float that won for best overall was created by the Primary Children's Medical Center, with a "Pirates of the Caribbean" theme, complete with a giant orange octopus, treasure chest, half-sunken ship and a Capt. Jack Sparrow look-alike.

In the predominantly Republican crowd, Jeff Dart, 24, stood out, wearing a red U. hat and a shirt emblazoned with the words "Obama '08."

After dealing with the economy, he wants to see the focus shift to "peace and diplomacy," he said.

"We hope," he said. "It's America. We're still incredibly blessed with what we have. The American dream ... is not supposed to be easy, but a little bit easier would really help."

Stephanie Walsh worries about supporting her husband in school, especially with the gas prices.

"You need to go to work just to pay for the gas to get there," she said. As a Republican, she's not a huge fan of Obama, but she said she doesn't feel like she can stand behind McCain either.

"I think what someone needs to do is give a confidence stance; make people believe it's going to be better. I wish they'd be out there saying, 'We're going to get out there and fix things,' so we'll feel comfortable."

She stood as the American flag passed by, placing her hand over her heart.

"I still love the country," she said. "So I hope somebody can fix it."

---

E-mail: sisraelsen@desnews.com