By Mike Weland

Some people just can't take a compliment. I met up with Gary Leonard, organizer once again of the Bonners Ferry Fourth of July celebration. He was carrying a post driver and a bag of poles, talking with a few of the many volunteers who made it all possible.

"This is great," I said, referring to the very bustling fairgrounds, packed with people, young and old, all having a great time. On an impromptu stage, Bonners Ferry's own Quarter Moon were filling the air with great music. Vendors were doing a bustling business, kids having fun on rides and at games. The fireworks show was still two hours away.

"The parade was great," I added.

"I know!" Gary replied enthusiastically. "This community is amazing!"

To hear him tell it, he did little, merely orchestrating the myriad donors and volunteers, all those who brought a little something to the table.

All of it coming together, almost as if by magic, to meld into a solid, seamless whole that, judging from the smiles, the greetings of friends, the delighted shrieks and giggles of children, the "oohs and ahhs" that accompanied the burst and bang of a every rocket in a spectacular fireworks display, approached perfection.

Of course Gary couldn't do it all himself, but, as the driving force and motivator who wove all those disparate parts together, you'd think he deserved to gloat just a little.

Nope. Not a smidgeon, just a radiant pride in the community he's now part of.

To all who pitched in, Gary especially, thank you. In extending that thanks, I know I'm speaking on behalf of just about everyone who took part in and enjoyed the celebration.

Leaving the fairgrounds and heading north after the grand finale, I noticed that the enjoyment wasn't confined downtown, as I saw several groups of people along the way, packing up their blankets and picnics and making their own ways home, having enjoyed the event from miles away. I suspect that held true no matter which direction you traveled to get home.

Here and there the lights of tractors shone in fields, farmers working late to bring in their hay. While they couldn't take time off to enjoy the celebration, I have a sense that, catching a glimpse of the spectacular display, they, too, felt the spirit of this county's celebration, and felt the sense of pride so many of us who were able to gather had shared.