By Jan Grossman
July 5, 2008

The parade itself was a classic, small town event up the picturesque main street of the village of Temple (home to America's First Town Band established in 1799!). Although not grand in terms of numbers in attendance, we had many quality conversations and interest aplenty when we tabled at the town center following the procession.

Due to our invitation to march in the Temple celebration, our initial intention was to forgo the Amherst parade. However, a week before the Fourth I became aware of the parade's theme: Founding Fathers.

Once this seed was planted in my brain, I could not let go of the historical fact mentioned in Department of Peace literature; that Founding Father Benjamin Rush (of Pennsylvania) proposed an Office of Peace Plan back in 1792. I found the document and read his radical proposal and his impressive biography. Then I knew he must manifest in some way for the parade.

As things flow when guided by inspiration, Benjamin Rush hastened into creation in the form of a mannequin and some adapted second hand clothes. His true features arose from an enlargement of an old painting and he strolled along on a rolling tea cart (whose purpose I could never have foreseen when I initially picked it up at a consignment shop!).

It was last minute but worthwhile. Only four of us marched; I, dressed as Julia, Benjamin's wife, Barbara on the bullhorn making introductions and a friend along with Kathy ringing their bells and carrying our signs. The Amherst Fourth of July festivities draw quite a crowd. It was great exposure though we could not linger due to the next parade engagement.

One highlight was the smiling recognition and knowing wave from our district Representative from the viewing stand as Benjamin Rush and the Department of Peace and Nonviolence were announced as we passed for review. Surely, he knows us by now!