The battle of the fireworks shows is on! For as far back as many can remember whenever the 4th of July has been on a Sunday the fireworks show in Idaho Falls was held on either Saturday or Monday – much to the chagrin of some Idaho Falls residence. This year was no exception.
But this year is different. This year, a group of people put together a Facebook page to try to rally support to try to force the local city council and Idaho Falls business man Frank Vandersloot to change the day of the fireworks and parade from Saturday the 3rd to Sunday the 4th. The chamber of commerce has said they decided to hold the events on Saturday instead of Sunday because it means more people will participate. But the “fireworks on the 4th” activists have held firm to their belief that the celebrations for the 4th should take place on the 4th regardless of who can and cannot attend. And to many there’s reason to believe that a Sunday fireworks show could draw a bigger crowd.
For the first time in recent history, these activists will have their wish – a 4th of July fireworks show held on Sunday. Not by forcing a move, but by adding a second fireworks show on Sunday. Hoping for a united community and supporting those who want a chance to gather and celebration on Sunday, Melaleuca CEO, Frank VanderSloot offered to help organize and match all donations to a fireworks show on Sunday. That second show is in addition to Vandersloot’s sponsoring the “Largest fireworks show west of the Mississippi” on Saturday the 3rd.
This whole local debate has been an interesting show itself caught up in conflict and misinformation. Local anchorman Jay Hildebrandt reported there were more than 37,000 members the 4th of July Facebook group, the actual number was closer to 3,700. And those 3,700 are only people who are “watching” with the debate the actual number of local people wanting a 4th of July fireworks show on Sunday more likely in the realm of a few dozen rather than thousands. The group currently has an event planned – but of the now 4,000 people who are member of the group watching the debate, only 13 people have confirmed they are coming to the fireworks show on Sunday.
So now the question remains – who was right – was the city council and the Chamber of Commerce right that a Saturday show will draw more crowds, or will those people all end up with egg on their faces when the Sunday show draws more people? This will be interesting to watch for sure!
Popularity: 1%
. Plus that leaves me a day to spend money elsewhere, so yes, there is money to be made on Sunday.
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Well, count me in for going to both.
Top ↑http://www.localnews8.com/news/24030753/detail.html
One could attend Saturday in Idaho Falls, and Sunday in Pocatello and have the best of both worlds!
Top ↑What amazes me is all of the whiners that complain about the FREE show that Frankie puts on. If you don’t like when he’s having his show, go to another one. Why do people not like that? Because they know Frankies show will be awesome and the others will be a gamble. It’s amazing what people complain about – even when it’s FREE.
Put on your own show you bunch of sponges.
Top ↑I am going to go to both, and enjoy it as much as I can. Congrats to the facebook page for there win for the fourth on Sunday!
Top ↑don’t be a twit, “no-whiners.” no one objected to the “free” show put on by Vandersloot. the concern is for a lack of respect for Independence Day by holding its celebration on a incorrect day.
Vandersloot, by disrespecting the appropriate celebratory day, disrespects the opinions of those he expects to observe his show. meanwhile he gets plenty of publicity and a tax-write-off for his disrespectful display.
the 4th is a celebration of freedom and we, as free Americans have the right to celebrate our beginnings respectively: rather than laud someone padding his pockets and ego.
Top ↑Wendy says Frank is being disrespectful ?! Then in the same breath talks about our freedom ? I hope she plans on going around to all the fireworks stands and demands that no person lights fireworks on any other day than the 4th, as every year they are being lit in the days leading up to the 4th through out the city.
Top ↑The man should be able to put a fireworks show on when ever he pleases, as long as he complies with all that he must, and he does. Who is really the disrespectful one here? The one that chooses to celebrate and share with anyone who wishes to enjoy the fireworks when he wants to do it, or the one the who dictates when it is appropriate to celebrate freedom? Celebrate it every day I say, as that is why we have it ! And no I’m not missing the point of the actual day of celebration as I understand it’s importance. However Wendy, you are missing the true spirit of what the actual Independace day stood for! Think about it.
Certain people here love Mr. Sloot because the guy has money. Everyone knows that money gives people an influence. If Vandersloot really wants to spend his money for a worthwhile cause he should help our schools and help give money to them. I will agree that the fireworks display is a good thing that he does every year but he doesn’t do enough for our city that he could.
Top ↑Yeah, providing jobs for local people is not enough. He should give his money to every other part of society also. Successful people people should provide for us if we can not provide for ourselves as it’s not our fault. I am sure he made no personal sacrifices and it was not hard for him to build his empire, and he should share more of his hard earned with us all. I am with you anonymous. NOT.
Top ↑It’s easy to comment on what a successful person should do with their money, as you never had to earn it! How many times have you put yourself out for him?
I’m sure that he’s earned his money but people who have money should help less fortunate people out. If I had that kind of money I would. My problem is what he spends it on most of the time; doling out ridiculous ads in the paper.
Top ↑We are happy that the Fireworks were kept on July 3 as we make reservations and travel from Twin Falls to Idaho Falls each year that we are able to see the grand fireworks display. Our family originally from Idaho Falls have always enjoyed the magnificent fireworks there. We understand why some people would prefer they be on July 4, but had already made plans to attend the fireworks display on July 3. We wish to express our apprecitaion to Frank VanderSloot for the Fireworks display his company puts on each year.
Top ↑Chicago Has Traditionally Done Fireworks On The Third Of July For Over 30 Years. The Only Disrespect Done Here Is The People Complaining About Something That Has Been Given To Them. Be Grateful That You Can Celebrate All Weekend Thanks To Mr. Vandersloot!!!
Top ↑Ridiculous ads in the paper? I guess $600,000.00 to pay for us to have a ballpark doesn’t count as contributing to the community. I’ve also heard he does a lot with supporting the fire department, police force, local food bank. And I remember something about him setting up a Hurricane Katrina fund when that hit. I think the guy does quite a bit – a lot more than he’s required to for sure.
I try to do my part in supporting the community and the needy, but I know I could always do more. For those people who want to give away other people’s money (or tell them what they should be doing with it) I always wonder why they think they have the right to do that.
“Anon, why didn’t you give $1,000 to the local food bank this year? Why didn’t you give $800 to the fireworks donation fund for the Sunday event? Why didn’t you give $1,200 to the local women’s shelter? You just spend your money on your home, car, food, entertainment, toys. Why aren’t you doing more for the community?” Think about it…
Top ↑Janet- how much have you given? Oh and frank also gives money to politicians, to attack and impeach certain politicians that weren’t for sale or don’t think like he does, oh and one other place that worships the ground he walks on, what was that place called, geez i know he gives millions to it every year, actually it’s here in idaho falls too, um…. oh yes the lds church. while giving to a church no matter what denom, it is is admirable there is not doubt that every dollar he spends earns him something in return, god like worship, the right to dictate what the local gov. does etc. but poor him he is entirely too picked on. perhaps instead we aught to get someone else to pay for the show. i would prefer a small 3,000 dollar display than an extravagant one that i am suppose to be eternally grateful for and bow down to everyone with the same religion as the man that paid for it because they feel they are somehow a part of the display too.
Top ↑Like I said I would be willing to give money to a worthwhile cause but I don’t have that kind of money. Yes he gave a ton of money to fund for the ballpark and that’s why it’s called Melaluca Field and without it we would still be playing in McDermott. This guy has loads of money. No wonder he is on Forbes list.
Top ↑Funny how easy it is for some to judge and proclaim what others SHOULD do with their money, but woe to anyone who tells them how to spend theirs…..
Top ↑Janet, whatever you heard about Vandersloot/Melaleuca giving to the fire department, law enforcement is false. As for the Ball Park, Melaleuca got the naming rights for paying off the last $500+K needed to build the park, a deal made by Blake Hall. The city of Idaho Falls ponied up $2 million for the park. Vandersloot/Melaleuca isn’t going to give/donate anything that they can’t write oiff on taxes. Vandersloot has manipulated the system and bought off so many state officials and politicians that anything he does he profits from. Melalueca’s big fireworks show is basically for their distributors/sales reps annual meeting held every 4th of July at the Shilo Inn hence Vandersloot can write it off as a business expense.
Top ↑As for Melaleuca and all those jobs they provide locally, I have read like 3400 people but I’m fairly sure that 3400 people include Melalueca’s operations in St.Paul Mn. and their operation in Tennessee. That number probably includes Vandersloot’s/Melalueca business enterprises in Montana (Private Ambulance Services & accounting firms) and mortgage business in Colorado to name a few. Vandersloot is a shrewd businessman surrounded by business minds who know the loopholes and how to get around the system. He does pay for a good fireworks show I’ll give him that.
Mark, how do you know he doesn’t give to the police or fire department? Youre kind of bold to make such a statement when you certainly can’t truthfully know whether that’s the case or not.
Top ↑It’s always the people that don’t have money who are the first ones to complain about those who do. Frankie boy has the money and influence to do pretty much what he wants and the fact is he made it on his own. He didn’t inherit his money and he didn’t win the lotto. He’s worked hard for what he has and that entitles him to spend HIS money the way HE sees fit. None of you have any right to judge this man or tell him how he should spend his money. You should be happy that he does so much for this community. Instead, it’s easier for all of you poor lazy folks out there who have no ambition to bash a man who’s made something of himself. Stop complaining and be grateful the man does so much for his community!
Top ↑Please, don’t make this another contraversial – bash Vandersloot page. Funny how if a poor man donates money to a political cause or politician, he’s being supportive; but when a wealthy man does the same (because he can contribute more) he must be buying people off or milking the system.
I tell you what, if I was putting on a show like he is or was donating $500K+ to a ball park, I’d sure find a way to legally write it off. It’s the IRS, not Vandersloot, that provides write-offs. That’s why Bill Gates contributes over 52% of his annual earnings to charities. Otherwise, these wealthy men and women leading American industries wouldn’t be able to continue creating jobs (in Idaho, Wyoming, or whereever) and spending money locally on things like fireworks and building new manufacturing facilities or remodelling office spaces.
The true disrespect to the holiday isn’t celebrating it on Saturday or Monday, it’s all the petty insults and personal attacks people are making over this issue.
Now, as for the real purpose of the post, being the question of which celelbrations will bring the crowds, I say Saturday wins this year. Sunday will draw some, and will most likely draw more when Independence Day (funny how all these PC comments around the ‘proper’ celebration of this holiday are referring to it as ‘The 4th of July’ and not it’s real name) falls on Sunday again in 2021. Like, Vandersloot, I do wish the Sunday Independence Day groups all the success they are seeking in creating an incredible celebration on Sunday. Be grateful of your freedom and rights to do so, and please, stop belaboring those who choose to celebrate on Saturday or Monday with your accusations of false-patriotism or disrespect to our nation.
Top ↑The fourth is called the fourth in America by most people. When you leave a store do you get told “have a good Independence day” or “have a good 4th?” I can almost guarentee that it is the latter. Since I have worked both in retail, and customer service elsewhere I can say I have been told and say in return “happy 4th”
Top ↑Macy’s 4th of July parade ring a bell?
Look at the calender of events pages in communities throughout america and see “4th of July celebrations, not Independence day celebrations. All though the original name is Independence day most Americans can say “what ya doin on the 4th” and not even say July and everyone around knows without question which holiday is being referred to.
I think it is safer for some this year to keep calling it Independence day so to avoid the fact that the people that wish to celebrate as usual on the 4th of July don’t sound like they might actually have a point. Also funny how the date of holidays are actually an agreed upon date for people to celebrate together. So the 4th was chosen.
I think this whole article is ridiculous. It isn’t suppose to be a competition, it is about a group or two groups trying to show their patriotism. One group just happens to believe that the 4th of July is the proper day to celebrate since the rest of the nation will be celebrating on that day as well. (yes i know some cities celebrate on the 3rd elsewhere and most of them also celebrate as a community on the 4th as well they make a whole weekend of it, and still yet millions of people and the majority of america celebrates with fireworks and parades on the 4th not the 3rd or the fifth so save your “everyone else is doing it” arguments they are false in most cases)
Top ↑The point is that making a comparison in itself is showing who the writer of this article is siding with, since the smaller but just as patriotic group could not possibly compare to the show that is paid for by frank. Even if the so called majority group started a fund raiser to pay for their own show they wouldn’t be able to compare.
I think its also funny how people like Kevin say everyone has one this year by getting two shows but then says participates in a “who is better, who is right” forum where clearly the point is to start an argument about who was right and who was wrong simply based on the number of people that show up!
Aren’t articles like that just asking to widen the gap that divides this community in the first place?
I just figured if you’re considered less patriotic by celebrating Independence Day on the ‘wrong’ day, the same must be true of calling it by the wrong name. After all, the 4th of July itself is not significant. There were several 4th’s of July that came and went before our nation delcared itself independent and a new nation was born.
(Assuming this is the same Anonymous from the other conversation) You get upset with Frank for calling his firework show the Melaleuca Freedom Celebration, then defend calling the holiday the 4th of July citing other corporations who have also called it such. I guess Macy’s know’s more than our founders who called the holiday Independence Day.
As for me, I do say Happy Independence Day, (I don’t call Christmas ‘The 25th of December’ or Valentines Day ‘The 14th of February’ or Pearl Harbor Day ‘The 7th of December’) but then again I’ve been declared a nut already because I am fine with celebrating Independence Day on a Saturday or Monday so I can observe the Sabbath on Sunday.
The difference is, I don’t get offended when someone says “Happy 4th of July”, rather will smile and and return the gesture wishing them a “Happy Independence Day!” I don’t judge their patriotism either, and only bring it up here because the argument against those who are celebrating on a day other than the 4th seems to be an argument of correctness in the observance of the holiday, and I found it ironic that while so much detail to dates is being paid, a lot of the argument is based on the accepted nickname of the holiday, rather than it’s actual name. While one variation is acceptable, the other – being alternate dates for celebrating – isn’t.
Just goes to show that no matter the outcome, some will never be pleased. And, while city officials are supposed to weigh out the voice of the public – on every side of any matter – there is no way to make everybody happy.
Top ↑How is the ‘everyone else is doing it’ argument not okay for my side to use when it comes to changing dates, but it’s okay for you to use when discussing the actual title of the holiday?
I didn’t view this as a “who’s right/better” forum, and apologize if using the term ‘Saturday wins’ was offensive to you. I wasn’t trying to make our patriotism a competition. Having a larger crowd on Saturday is only more natural due to the scheduling and planning that has already taken place this year for those who plan to attend this Saturday.
I also said that in 2021, the next time Independence Day falls on a Sunday, there are sure to be larger crowds than this year will see. I am positive that our town can do two days better than many towns can do on one day in terms of putting on a celebration. Rather than our citizens and others going to Pocatello for a Sunday show, we should get them coming here.
Top ↑Funny at least you admitted your side changed the date.
Top ↑My opinion was not only towards your comments, but to this article. It is asking which side “wins” based on number of people and I find that insulting not your comments Kevin. I agree that we should strive to get people to come to the show on Sunday as well. I don’t know for sure but even though there would be no need to spend money, I am betting that some do see this as a competition and will not show up because they wouldn’t want to admit there is nothing wrong with gathering with other people (besides your own family) on Sunday and enjoying the freedom to celebrate as a nation. It is the competitive nature of this whole thing that I think is frustrating and what causes so much bickering back and forth, instead of using a holiday as an excuse to unite with one another.
What prevents mormons from celebrating the 4th of July/Independence Day and sabbath on the same day?
Top ↑As to your blabber about those that keep calling it the “wrong” name, and the corporation that so sinfully includes the 4th of July WITH the title of the parade, things change, some people never will, but culture and things do.
Top ↑Originally the date was called Independence day, but as it is celebrated ON the fourth of July, many simply started calling it the 4th. And now as I said earlier it is affectionately called so, because the day and the holiday are so closely tied to one another that there is no need to explain what anyone means by Happy 4th. Just as you might nickname a favorite relative, and that is more endearing than their birth name, nicknaming a holiday that is tied to a date so strongly that people have decided to simply call it the 4th is an endearment not an insult to it’s original name. Everyone knows what the 4th is celebrated for, well most people.
So when you call that favorite relative a nickname like Liz when her name is Elizabeth and it becomes so ingrained in her that she signs her name as Liz not Elizabeth is she insulting her parents that named her Elizabeth?
Oh in case you didn’t guess the above is the reason why it is ok for me to use the “‘everyone else is doing it’ argument [and] not okay for [your] side to use when it comes to changing dates”
Top ↑Kevin, in all seriousness and respect since you have declared yourself a near expert in your faith, can you share with us the real reasons that the Sabbath and 4th of July can not be celebrated on the same day?
Top ↑I think clearing up the confusion and all of the myths and rumors as to why might actually be a step in the direction of understanding for those that don’t share your faith. Maybe if it were clearer to those of us that don’t know the precise reasoning behind the change, there would be less name calling and accusations on both sides and perhaps a mutual respect for each others beliefs.
I wasn’t being serious in my ‘name’ debate, rather adding another rediculous level of debate to the topic. While I choose to call it Independence Day, I don’t get worked up about others calling it the 4th of July. I understand the endearment behind the holiday nickname and the acceptance by the majority and personally accept it. What I wonder is why you’re ok with one majority effecting what we call such an important holiday, but another majority can’t effect when a city decides to through an Independence Day party? That’s the only reason I keep belaboring the ‘name’ aspect of the holiday.
As for why the LDS feel participating in the festivities is not in line with keeping the Sabbath, I can only speak for myself. I believe the day to be one of rest, where my family and I don’t work or make purchases which require others to work. Much of the activities on Saturday and Sunday this year require employees to work on floats, in booths and at various restaurants and hotels and requires more city police officers, ambulance and fire workers to be on duty.
We will have a flag out in our front yard all weekend (except at night) and in our ward (similar to parish), a mix of patriotic and religious songs will be sung. I’m also certain that many of the testimonies shared from the pulpit will include gratitude for the nation God has preserved for us and for the lives dedicated to and lost for our freedoms.
The importance of Independence Day and all it stands for will not be lost on me or my family by observing it the way we choose to.
Top ↑Please, don’t confuse my active role on these posts as a declaration of expertice in the LDS faith. I’ve been a life-long member, and while I don’t claim to live and know it all, I do appreciate the opportunity to answer questions about what I do know (vs. defend myself against accusatory statements).
Top ↑Thank you for sharing your reason. While I don’t understand it and could state several things I happen to disagree with about it, I respect your honesty and the strength of your faith. I honestly do. Though I think it is important to keep the 4th of July on the fourth and the simple fact that this holiday, more than any other I might argue is tied to the date that we celebrate, your right we don’t call Christmas, happy 25th, or Valentines Day happy 14th, but we do call Independence day the 4th, I respect that just because you choose not to celebrate traditionally with the rest of Americans, does not mean you don’t love your country.
Top ↑Isn’t that the beauty of this country! Even if we don’t understand another group, we can be understanding and get along because of the very freedoms we are celebrating. If you are interested in knowing more about how the LDS faith views the Sabbath, you are welcome to read statements from spokesmen and spokeswomen of the church. Here are a few great examples of the significance the Sabbath has to the LDS as well as patriotism:
1. Sabbath Day – Holy Day or Holiday (a very pertinent talk considering this subject board)
http://www.lds.org/ldsorg/v/index.jsp?locale=0&sourceId=8e5b3ff73058b010VgnVCM1000004d82620a____&vgnextoid=2354fccf2b7db010VgnVCM1000004d82620aRCRD
2. Keeping the Sabbath Day Holyhttp://www.lds.org/ldsorg/v/index.jsp?locale=0&sourceId=0a906a4430c0c010VgnVCM1000004d82620a____&vgnextoid=2354fccf2b7db010VgnVCM1000004d82620aRCRD
3. The Divinely Inspired Constitution
http://www.lds.org/ldsorg/v/index.jsp?hideNav=1&locale=0&sourceId=729d94bf3938b010VgnVCM1000004d82620a____&vgnextoid=2354fccf2b7db010VgnVCM1000004d82620aRCRD
4. First Presidency Statement (regarding partriotism and military roles of the LDS)
http://www.lds.org/pa/display/0,17884,4893-1,00.html
5. Declaration of Dependence: Teaching Patriotism in the Home
http://www.lds.org/ldsorg/v/index.jsp?hideNav=1&locale=0&sourceId=1281fd758096b010VgnVCM1000004d82620a____&vgnextoid=2354fccf2b7db010VgnVCM1000004d82620aRCRD
Some of the talks are older than others, but these teachings in the church about the Sabbath and patriotism haven’t changed. Anything on LDS.org is from articles or talks given by those who we believe are or were called of God to give LDS followers council and direction. They are the established experts in the faith.
Just do a search on any topic at LDS.org, and you’ll get a long list of results spanning several results pages for any topic you’re curious about.
Top ↑Thanks again Kevin. I may have been sarcastic by referring that you consider yourself an expert, but I take it back and I have no doubt that many that share your faith would consider it an honor to call you an expert. At least because you stand true to who you are while respecting others choices. Thanks for the info. I will look into my curiosity and hope others will to so to shed a light on a topic that causes much confusion in our community. One that by your example doesn’t have to. Thanks Kevin. Hope we can put our differences on this topic aside and just agree we are both Americans that feel strong about something we believe in.
Top ↑Now, this is a dialogue. Respectfully disagreeing. I wish the rest of the community on all the discussion boards would take the example of our last few exchanges as how to discuss this and other topics. Semantics, name calling, and diminishing beliefs don’t get two sides to any sort of understanding of each other – even if they choose to still disagree in the end. Asking questions, providing answers and not tearing down each other’s beliefs – that’s how people can continue living together despite – not in spite of – their differences.
I took your ‘expert’ comment both sarcastically and complimentary, and – while no apology was necessary – I don’t mean any offense by continuing to decline the title.
Thanks for the compliment, though. I just know where I stand in relation to trying to live all the principles of the gospel I believe in, and feel expert is a larger title than I have earned.
While our approaches to this particular topic are different, I am glad that we can both be passionate about the things that we believe make this country and community great.
Have a Happy Independence Day!!!
Top ↑typical
ask a question and receive links rather than an answer
Top ↑@ Anonymous
I did give an answer – “As for why the LDS feel participating in the festivities is not in line with keeping the Sabbath, I can only speak for myself. I believe the day to be one of rest, where my family and I don’t work or make purchases which require others to work. Much of the activities on Saturday and Sunday this year require employees to work on floats, in booths and at various restaurants and hotels and requires more city police officers, ambulance and fire workers to be on duty.”
The links were intended to dodge, but to give more depth to my response, as I don’t intend on providing a sermon about the Sabbath on this Blog. This way, only those interested in understanding the ‘why’ behind LDS observance of Sabbath on Sunday can read at their leisure, and those who don’t care to know won’t have to read through what they have no interest in reading.
Top ↑I must say I can’t stand the mormans and what they preach, but I have to congratulate Mr. Vandersloot for schooling this woman in public and she doesn’t even have a clue.
1-”I will match your funds”, in 3 days?
2-”I thought they would raise 20 to 30 thousand dollars”, not really.
3-”Would you like to use my pyro guy”, thanks.
4-”No place to do your fireworks? How about my or I mean Melaleuca Field”. Your welcome.
This woman is an idiot.
Thank you to all of the people working hard to make July 3rd a fabulous day and thank you Mr. Vandersloot for everything you bring to this community.
Top ↑@Hank- Wow, you managed to insult everyone involved in such a short answer. You stated you hate the mormons, whick Frank is a devoted member and if you can say nothing else about him, he does stand for what he believes in first everything else second. Then you call a local women who has actually approached this with much class and dignity an idiot. You also managed to make Frank sound like a jerk who was intending on insulting the group instead of helping them as he claimed. Wow! good one, don’t think you’ll have much support from anyone on this one!
Top ↑Everyone is entitled to their opinion, even Hank, so don’t blow things out of proportion. Nowhere in his comment does the word “hate” appear, so lets continue to keep this dialogue civil.
Top ↑@Anonymouse-So you did get it.
Top ↑A few points for your viewing pleasure.
-I didn’t say hate.
-Excellent PR move by Frank to turn a negative into a positive. Buisness 101.
-Class and dignity? I think not standing in front of Melaleuca Field.
She got schooled and now she is going to Franks field and claim a victory for standing up for herself. Frank rocks!
See ya at the ball game.
You guys must realy be bent at Braintree Massachussetts. They decided to celebrate Independence Day on June 26th.
Top ↑I think it’s hilarious. For Vandersloot it’s a damned if you do, damned if you dont. Ha ha.
For me, I think the man did a great job and making a difficult situation a good one. He put up money, voiced support, gave what was probably the maximum amount of time available to collect funds (and funds are still being collected, by the way, according to the facebook page) and got them some unprecidented media coverage to get the word out for those who wanted to donate. I don’t know him, but he seems like a class act: Stands up for what he believes in, supports the community, gets involved instead of standing by. I don’t agree with everything he’s done, but just the fact that he stands up to make a difference says a whole heck of a lot to me.
Thinking about it, Apart from caving to the minority who’s upset about the parade and fireworks being on Saturday, what (anyone? anyone?) could he have done that wouldn’t have the anti-mormon/anti-religous fanatics taking pot shots?
Top ↑It is amazing that Vandersloot is supporting both events. Our Chamber is amazing too for all of the work they are doing also.
Top ↑God like worship? check!
Make em think i did it for them.(lds) check!
Throw a bone to the chamber and give them some cred. Check!
Take the pressure off the city, for doing nothing. check!
Sit back and listen to the love from my people….
It is amazing that Vandersloot is supporting both events. Our Chamber is amazing too for all of the work they are doing also.
I think the man did a great job
he seems like a class act
Frank rocks!
thank you Mr. Vandersloot
Post 18….no need to say more!
Thanks To Mr. Vandersloot!!!
We wish to express our apprecitaion to Frank VanderSloot for the Fireworks display his company puts on each year.
Posts 6, 8 and 12
Feel the love Frank.
I’m not saying he shouldn’t be thanked but it seems more to me like it is worship. You would think he was related to all the people that bow down and kiss his feet. Is he equivalent to the pope?
Top ↑There’s also a very disturbing worship like facebook page devoted to Frank and his fireworks show. Reading the posts sends chills up my back, if I were Frank, praise or no praise I would keep a list of the members on this page and start getting restraining orders.
Top ↑The site is called: Support Frank Vandersloot and the Melaleuca Freedom Celebration with 554 people. Some of which say things like “I sure hope Frank is reading our page.”
@Hank Comment 39:
Here are some of your own words:
“I can’t stand the mormans and what they preach”
“This woman is an idiot.”
Do you know her? Do you know Frank for that matter? I find words like yours to be from an uneducated kiss butt that doesn’t have anything intelligent to add and even insults the person he is supposively praising before he even gets out his thank you to him. Very nice, shows how much class you have huh? Can’t even make a compliment sound intelligent and kind, without insulting all sides of the debate. Saying Thank you and not insulting someones religion first should be no brainer 101!
Top ↑We will be having a tailgate party on the 4th to support the 4th on the 4th at Taphas Park at the shelter on the north side of the park. All meat, stake, ribs, chicken will be provided. 1-5 and then we will head to the game. Bring your favorite side and wear your team colors. We will pick up the cost and raffel some tickets. We have 250 people so far. Happy 4th!!!!!! Let us know what you are doing to support the 4th on the 4th?
Top ↑LOL. Ok, so someone says “thank you” and that is god-like worship. It’s a “THANK YOU”. LOL Maybe you’ve never received one of those so you don’t quite know what thank you means. or maybe your mom didn’t ever teach you how to say thank you. (you should really try it sometime… wait, maybe not… someone might think you’re giving them god-like worship… better to just hate people to hate them) and “I sure hope Frank is reading our page.” That sure us scary….. (sarcasm intended)
I think I get it now. It’s not your fault you hate someone you dont know. You just don’t understand some of the basics of society. Like what “thank you” means. Whew. Glad that’s over with.
Now about the tailgate party. Count me in! Ill be there as well as at the freedom celebration on the 3rd. I say, celebrate our independence on every day we can.
Top ↑With respect to Idaho Falls, would the posters on this particular topic please answer the following questions:
When the 4th of July falls on the days listed below, please indicate what day on which our Independence day is actually celebrated (i.e. if 4th of July falls on a Monday is it celebrated on Monday or some other day):
Monday –
Tuesday -
Wednesday -
Thursday -
Friday -
Saturday -
Sunday -
What day(s) of the week provide the city council the highest probability of attendance for any celebration?
Would you be okay with always celebrating our Independence day on the day(s) that you answered as providing the highest probability for attendance regardless of the day upon which it actually falls?
Top ↑many of the decisions about the 4th of july are religion based. one of the many reason we even celibrate the 4 of july is to enjoy , freedom of religion. so, for us to celibrate the 4th on the 3rd, contradicts the religion part of the constitution. to call people an activist for wanting to celibrate a national holiday on the day it falls on is not factual. they are patriots. i applaud mr. vandersloot for giving up his money and time to ensure we can celibrate the 4th of july with great joy. he also gets a great deal back by doing this. advertising and great public relations. my family celibrated the 4th on the 3rd only because many had to work on the 5th early in the morning. most of them would have had the 5th off if the big celibration had been on the 4th. i just don’t believe that celibrating on the right day would have interferred with any religios belief or activity. there is no doubt what will atract the most people. it will be on the day of the big celibration. i observed both. i believe the bible says that life should be celibrated. isn’t that what the 4th is all about. to celibrate life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. it is about haveing freedom. just think, this is the only country that you can go to church, celibrate life and disagree with the government on the same day.
Top ↑The Melaleuca Fireworks were the same as they were last year, and the year before that ect ect. I did get a laugh out of Frank Vandersloot and Butch Otter on KLCE strokin one another about how much they’ve done for the people. This years celebration went three fold for Vandersloot. His company business meeting, “giving back to the community” and shining on state politicians he’s bought and paid for.
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