Balfe named Sprague grand marshal

SPRAGUE – A lifelong resident has been named grand marshal for the 2023 Sprague Days Parade.

Bernie Balfe was selected for the honor by the Sprague Chamber of Commerce.

He will preside over this year's Sprague Days, set for Sept. 9-10.

Sprague Days includes a Car and Bike Show, music and entertainment, a beer garden and the parade in which Balfe will preside.

Balfe was raised in Sprague and graduated high school here.

Balfe spent his whole life in Sprague, other than when he would be sent elsewhere to do work for Union Pacific Railroad.

He spent almost 30 years laying new rails and ties, and i...