A Corridor Fourth

When the Fourth of July falls on a Sunday, one would think this holiday would take on a relaxing feel to it. But that was not the case as we were supportive of the Iowa City - Cedar Rapids corridor.

After finishing the 8K, all eyes were turned toward Colin as he entered the Cedar Rapids Alliant Fun Run. This year he wanted to run the route by himself and he did quite well. Althought times and places are recorded, this year's effort was more impressive over his frist year in 2009

On the way back was the Ely Fireman's Breakfast. Nothing says small town on a Sunday than a Fireman's Breakfast. Ely was much success with this outing, and the weather had to contribute to a larger crowd in 2010.

It was then on to the Coralville Fourth of July parade. Typically this annual tradition takes place in the morning, but with it falling on a Sunday, the City of Coralville didn't want to mess with the Sunday Church schedule.

And finally, to end the non-stop action was the Iowa City Jazz Festival on the University of Iowa Pentacrest.

4th of July - Coralville Fireworks

Our Fourth of July throughout the Corridor came to an end tonight in Coralville. Fireworks lit up the sky over S.T. Morrisson Park.

4th of July - Ely Fire Department Pancake Breakfast

Following the Alliant Energy 8K and Kids Fun Run, the family headed down to Ely for their annual Fire Department Pancake Breakfast. To prove why it is great to live in Iowa and the Midwest, a gentleman leaving the breakfast approached us with two tickets to the event for free. Very generous of this stranger and member of the Ely community.

For $5 per adult and $2.50 for children, it was an all-you-can-eat meal including pancakes, eggs, bacon and sausages. Unlike some other fire department breakfasts in the area the members of the fire department were very generous with the helpings.

On this rainy day, it was hard to find a parking spot in the bustling community. Lines stretched far down the street in anticipation of the hearty breakfast.

On a dry day, Colin would be all over the fire engines.

Ely was very organized. Two lines with food cooking constantly on the grills.

Pancakes, Pancakes and more Pancakes.

It was tough to find a place to sit within the fire station.

4th of July - Alliant Energy 8K

For the 24th straight year Alliant Energy has sponsored the Cedar Rapids 5K/8K. After a year in which the floods delayed the race until Labor Day, it returned to the Fourth of July on a cool and rainy day.

This was the third year I have raced in the event. My personal best time was 39:22 in 2006. Unofficially my time was at 39:51 (update: Official Time 39:47) this year, I was very satisfied with my performance.

Here I approach the finish line on 2nd Avenue. A light drizzle fell on participants throughout the day.

Colin and Mom waited patiently for the 8K to conclude as well as waiting for the Kids Fun Run.

Colin sprints away from Daddy.

Colin shows off his medal for participating in the event.