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Anchorage July 4th Float Celebrates America's Diversity

Japanese and Filipino Communities Thank Alaskans For Tsunami Aid

July 03, 2011|by Jackie Bartz

ANCHORAGE, Alaska — It's the kind of July 4th float that will make you do a double take, a trailer covered in waves with a massive tsunami riding on the back of it.  But if you take a minute to talk to the creators, you'll find out how this float fits in perfectly.

"We all moved from various places," said Minami Jones, a member of the Japan Relief Fund of Alaska.  "I think that is the reason that we are united, so I think it's a good idea that all the nations together celebrate America's birthday.

The float was built by Anchorage's Japanese and Filipino communities.  It portrays the tsunami that hit Japan following March's massive earthquake.   

The inspiration for the float came from an ancient piece of Japanese artwork that featured a tsunami.  The float will feature Japanese drummers that symbolize the aggression of an earthquake and tsunami.  

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"In great times of disaster and trouble somehow people come together and unite together," said Richard Benipayo, the float's creator.  "The American spirit is really all about that."

The Japan Relief Fund of Alaska, which has many organizers working on the float, has raised over $50,000.

Anchorage's July 4th parade will be at 11 a.m., it starts at 9th Ave. and K St. and makes a loop.

contact jbartz@ktuu.com

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