WOW! a friend of mine said, "you gotta see all the posts over breastfeeding in the parade", who knew!
I think though, the point was CANCER, the shirts said "Breastfeeding PREVENTS CANCER" (not sure why the one poster felt that info is tasteless)?
And isn't the prevention of cancer something we should shout LOUD and CLEAR from the streets for all to know in this day and age when our families are dying off rapidly???

Being a cancer survivor I have my OWN slogan, "BOOBS, NOT JUST FOR LOW CUT BLOUSES ANYMORE, IT'S WHAT'S FOR DINNER"!

Maybe if more young girls learned this in their youth, it would save their morality as well as their lives AND feed a baby to boot!!
Now THATS worth marching in a parade about!!

Bwell :)

I was impressed by the Milton school band wearing their full uniforms marching. That must have been hot with the black and the hats.
The New Glarus Fire Department demonstration is always exciting.

Ladies,
Please let it rest
To Each His Own

jvlmom - actually the EXACT words on the sign were "Breastmilk - not just for food ..... diaper rash, sunburn, cradle cap, ear/eye infection" It said nothing about "preventing" Just because you breastfed your baby doesn't mean it would prevent these things but rather you would use the expressed breastmilk in place of diaper cream, expencive eye and ear drops etc.

Jvlmom, you have every right to be offended about being approached in public by strangers about not breastfeeding. However, how does that have anything to do with the LLL in the parade? The signs were not offensive to or cutting down formula feeders so I'm just confused as to why you've made this such an issue in here. As you said before, you tried breastfeeding, gave it your best effort, sought out help from lactatiton consultants etc...and found out later you medically could not. I'm so sorry for that- I can tell by your passionate posts that you really wanted to nurse your babies. No one is putting you down for physically not being able to. If you took the time to actually get to know the LLL women you would know that not a single one of us would ridicule you or make you feel like less of a mother. What a waste of time that would be, don't you think? We are for supporting and educating breastfeeding mothers- not harassing formula feeders.

Is this article about the parade or breast feeding?
.
I couldn't go to the parade, had to work.

I just can't believe that the LLL being in the parade is such an issue. If you knew any of the moms that were walking in the parade, you would never be saying any of the rude comments that have been said. Each and every one of these women would gladly give you the shirt off of their back. They were in the parade only to make others aware of their group, and the fact that breastfeeding, is and always will be, the best nutrition for your baby. Of course, some moms need meds, some can't breastfeed because of anatomical reasons, etc... but the other non-nursing moms --- SHAME ON YOU!!! The only reason you didn't nurse was because you were too embarrased, didn't have support, had no education on the subject OH YEAH and by the way, that is what LLL does ---- SUPPORT NURSING MOMMIES, EDUCATE THEM, GIVE THEM A SAFE ENVIRONMENT FOR YOU TO NURSE YOUR INFANT WITHOUT ANYONE JUDGING YOU. They also talk about many other topics such as husband/wife relationship issues, better nutrition for mommy and baby, toddler, etc., how to get your baby to sleep at night, etc... All the same issues mom with working breasts and ones without all struggle with.
I could go on FOREVER about how offended I am about people not supporting other moms no matter how they choose to breastfeed, but by no means should ANYONE EVER put down a mom for doing the very thing that God intended our breasts for.

right....it can prevent, if the milk is put directly on the area....again, wonderful stuff!

Many, many mothers initiate breastfeeding but then quit in the first few days or weeks postpartum due to lack of support. The purpose of La Leche League, since 1956, has been to support, encourage, and promote breastfeeding. To promote breastfeeding does not mean to "demote" formula-feeding. Similarly, if I were promoted at work, it wouldn't mean that my coworkers were demoted. It would just mean that I was promoted. None of the LLL signs in the parade were negative towards formula-feeding. They were, however, positive regarding breastfeeding. There are many benefits of breastfeeding....for the mother, for the baby, for the family, for the community, for the environment, and for the economy, and many of these benefits are not well known. The parade was one way to spread the word about these many benefits and also a way to reach mothers who desire to breastfeed and need support. There are women who desperately wish to breastfeed and don't know support is available. As a result of the parade, if only one mother is helped to breastfeed, whether through LLL or another resource, good was done. March on, LLL!

PKmom....the exact words on the sign were "Breastmilk prevents cradle cap and diaper rash"

lovetoscrap....I sustained 2 lives, my babies grew in my stomach and were nurished I gave them life! Just because I did not nurse them does not mean any different!

bbwil....NO, I DO NOT get worked up over just seeing support for breast feeders....I get worked up when I am put down, and I have been SEVERAL times because I formula fed both of my babies! I have NO problem at all about women nursing in public, and no problem with the mom not covering up. It is a natural thing and should be done in public regardless of what people think! I fully support that!

What I do not support is being put down because I use formula! I have gotten SEVERAL comments in the line at the grocery store and also from a few pharmacists about using formula. There is NO reason for that, also when people say it prevents ear infections, cradle cap, diaper rashes, BULL! That is not true in all cases! I know several woman who have nursed their kids and the babies have had ear infection after ear infection and cold after cold and also cradle cap! This is all due to genetics not wether you breast feed or not! Both of my kids have been extremely healthy and have not had any health problems at all, neither one of them had a diaper rash until well after they turned a year old and they were fed on FORMULA and PLASTIC bottles! I was very very upset when I found out that I could not nurse my kids due to my medical conditions and the meds I have to take every day. I consulted 2 lactation consultants about this, and also 3 different doctors trying to find different meds that I could take that would be safe for my kids and be able to nurse and that just was not possible so I DO NOT appreciate being put down because I use formula! I have been confronted several times about it and it gets old fast!

jvllmom What is the difference between la leche and the politicians in the parade. The politicains use the parade as a way of getting there names out there why can't the breast feeding moms do the same? I had no problem with either of them. The parade is celebration not something to be picked over. I enjoyed the parade as did my kids and applaud the organizors for their efforts.

Not to get off the subject here o wait we are off the subject of the paprade and on the subject of how we feed babies!!!!
anyway back to the parade. Whay do kids these days think that is all parades are for is candy? They have no respect for the other things the parade is for. they just jump out in the street to get the candy and then those sitting to see the parade cant see the parade. Also I was taught in a parade you only stand for the color guard as it passes by noyt every time the flag goes by

Both my children quit nursing when they were around 10-11 months. I was sad. Apparently they were ready and I was not. I have to say it was so nice to not have to ween them from a bottle, or pay those horrible prices for formula. Of course the greatest benefit was knowing I was providing the healthiest form of nutrition for my children and I am glad I was able to. If possible I would for every mother to nurse her children. It's an amazing feeling knowing that you are sustaining life. What wonderful times of bonding!

The sign that stated, "Babies are born to be breastfed!" is actually a quote from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Many of the other signs were also drawn from reputable sources, not just one mother's opinion.

Breastfeeding is a normal biological function. My children will know how they were nurished when they were babies. Hopefully this knowledge will develop an awareness that sexuality is not just about pleasure, but also about creating new life and nurturing it. I want my children to respect the normalacy of breastfeeding.

I think a "family parade" is a wonderful place to celebrate mothers supporting mothers and babies. All mothers should be given a pat on the back on labor day, our job isn't just 9am-5pm, but 24/7!

I am a member of LLL. The only thing I have to say is ... mam·mal (mml)
n.
Any of various warm-blooded vertebrate animals of the class Mammalia, including humans, characterized by a covering of hair on the skin and, in the female, milk-producing mammary glands for nourishing the young.

In other words, babies were "Born to Breastfeed"

one of my favorite signs was "I make milk, whats your superpower?" some where ment to add a bit of humor. "Don't be a weaner, breastfeeding is for toddlers too" its a pun and i cracked up so bad when i read it the first time, lol

the thing I love about LLL more then anything else is their belife that you know whats best for your child, and that any advice they offer is yours to use only if it fits you and your family. LLLove to all!

How fabulous that LLL has inspired such passionate conversation! More moms SHOULD be discussing parenting issues, and UNITE as women who would do ANYTHING for their children, despite their differences (the moms', not the kids...lol) Thanks for getting the conversation started, jvlmom!

A note for clarification -- the signs weren't saying that breastfeeding prevents cradle cap, diaper rash, etc., rather that breastMILK cures such ailments. Another one -- put a little breastmilk in a baby's eye, and it clears up clogged tear ducts! It's really very cool stuff :)

Wow, I have NEVER heard of bottle feeders getting rude looks or comments. I have only heard the opposite, that breastfeeders get rude looks, rude comments, and are actually asked to leave public places when they are feeding their babies. I think it is terrible either way. Mothers should be able to feed their children without feeling embarassed, harassed, or hurt. Lets all try to get along and be supportive of whatever we decide to do. Peace out!

momof5...LOL...I didn't say a word about you being unsuccessful or jealous OR about formula feeders being any less of a woman or parent. Who's the one who needs to lighten up?
.
.
Anyway, you proved my point exactly; how formula feeders get all worked up when breastfeeding becomes a topic.

I did not go to the parade so I can't really say anything about the LLL. But I didn't breastfeed my daughter. And I too did get rude looks and comments when I gave my daughter a bottle in the stores. I couldn't breastfeed my daughter due to medications. I did want to though. I don't know if I agree that breastfed babies are smarter and whatever else they say. I think it is in how you raise your child. Breastfeeding may help but my daughter is no less smart than any other two year old because I didn't breastfeed her.

bbwil--it's called sarcasm and a sense of humor. Lighten up. And, who ever said I didn't have sucess or was jealous? I nursed my older kids and chose not to nurse my younger ones. I'm no more or less of a woman or parent because of it. It is a personal choice and one that has to work for you, your baby and family. And, I have the utmost respect for the moms who are able to nurse and/or pump exclusively for the first recommended year.

I'm betting whether or not Gm is here in the years to come there will still be a parade, breast feeding and all.

momof5, if you feel you need a support group for formula feeding mothers, then you should really start one. Formula feeders get so worked up when they see successful breastfeeding mothers or anyone supporting it. Seriously, go start your own group if you think you need support.

momof5-I have a friend who didn't brestfeed her kids because her husband didn't want her too. He thinks those breasts are for him! Pretty silly, huh...
I didn't think bbwil was bashing Mercy. Although my sister-in-law planned to breastfeed until she took the Mercy baby class and they somehow convinced her not too. I think that recently there has been a small push at Mercy to encourage breastfeeding thanks to a very small number of nurses and one very cool NP.

"excuses" settle down. I'm not bashing anyone. In my experience and many other mothers I have talked with, they have had very little to no support from the clinic or hospital workers. I think it's GREAT that you recieved the help you needed.

I would like to have my newly formed group march in the parade next year.
.
Does anyone know where I can sign up the "La We filled our spines with anesthesia, fed our babies using plastic bottles and formula....and they turned out just fine League of Greater Rock County"???

"Breasts are for feeding babies, that is a plain and simple fact."
.
Do you mind telling (and/or convincing) the majority of the male population that? lol

bbwil~~if it wasn't for the support from the hospital i WOULD NOT be nursing my daughter . mercy helped me out a great deal, and even a week later i was back up there for help, so was mercy east when we went to her check up . they help me make sure i was doing it correctly helped me because she would latch on. NOT everyone had a bad experiance so just do not go bashing them because you haven't .

Jvlmom-"I also have been confronted PERSONALLY in stores because I bottle feed, I am saying that your opinions should be kept to yourself and pushed on/or put other people down because they formula feed!" I can't believe that someone would do that to you, it is horrible and mean. But, do you know how many times I have gotten comments or been sneared at for breastfeeding my baby discreetly? If you honestly think people shouldn't push their ideas on others, then you shouldn't have commented on the LLL being in the parade. The LLL is a wonderful support group and tries to help mothers who are in your situation- having difficulty breastfeeding and/or medical issues. Babies were born to breastfeed. Breasts are for feeding babies, that is a plain and simple fact. I do not have a problem with people who do not/can not breastfeed. It does not make them less of a mother. But breastfeeding is best for your baby. Breastfed babies are generally healthier, smarter, have a reduced risk or breast cancer (as does their mother), etc. PLus, its free and natural! LLL is there for you and anyone else who wants breastfeeding help/support. They are not saying you are a bad mom.
Also, If you do not think that people should force their opinions on others, there shouldn't be any politicians, church groups, or anyone for that matter in the parade or on TV.
THanks LLL for all of your help and support you have given me and so many other mothers. YOu Rock!

Jvlmom, I'm sorry that you were ever confronted by strangers about formula feeding. But I just want to make it clear that that is NOT what LLL is about (forcing our ideals on others and placing blame or guilt for not breastfeeding.) We are a support group for breastfeeding mothers and we take any chance we get to spread the knowledge about the benefits, for both mom and baby, about breastfeeding. Believe it or not, a LOT of mothers don't even consider breastfeeding because they don't know anything about it...and unfortunately in Janesville our health clinics and hospitals aren't the most helpful in that area, so a lot of new mothers are given terrible advice about breastfeeding and end up being told that they "cannot" do it. When in reality, only a VERY small amount of women physically cannot breastfeed.
.
.
I'm sorry if the group came off as offensive, but like "Sorry" said, if we decided to ban all groups from the parade that the entire city didn't agree with...there would be no parade.

I'm just glad we live in a country where we can exercise our freedom of speech. In today's world it is difficult not to express an opinion without offending someone.
I don't think the point of the group marching in the parade was to put down those who chose or are unable to breastfeed - but to promote their group and offer support for those who need and/or want it. Yay LLL for bringing the group to the parade - maybe there were some mom's that were unaware of the group's existence and activities in this area!

Hey next year maybe there will be a homebirth/midwife group in the parade....

Right on footvillemom.

I've never heard of a bottlefed baby being asked to cover up... or leave an eatery... or invite rude comments. I have known all nursing mothers to be subject to these issues.
jvlmom, it seems clear to me you don't have an issue with breastfeeding, just being put down for NOT breastfeeding.
I'm very sad and sorry that anyone did that to you, and it should not have happened. But breastfeeding is on the rise because more mothers are exposed to the idea (no pun intended) and it is more socially acceptable. In WI women can nurse freely and many places provide nursing rooms.

As far as being offended, I don;t like seeing Viagra and Cialis commercials. But I appreciate that there is a population that needs and values these things, and I deal with it. (Stand up for viagra.. har har)

For the record, GO LA LECHE LEAGUE!

I cannot comment for La Leche Leauge International (www.llli.org) but I am a member of this group and wholeheartedly belive that we had every right to be in the parade. I am sad that you feel that something that is undeniably natural should be kept out of the publics thoughts. Although this is not an issuse every person must think about, we were marching to show support for all mothers and babies. Raising children is a personal choice, and LLL is there for those who want to learn more about breastfeeding and gain mother-to-mother support.

If you saw, our shirts and some signs reflected what are message was for the parade "Breastfeeding prevents Breast Cancer". Breastfeeding does so many good things for both baby and mother.

On a personal note, I nursed my nine week old son twice while waiting lined up for the parade to start! I'm proud I can give my baby nutrition anywhere and anytime it is neccesarry. I also refuse to feed my baby in a bathroom, as I am legaly allowed to nurse anywhere a women is allowed.

Thank-you MikeF for the explanation,makes sense but still is too bad the paradewatchers are so thinned out by then.
Still would like to see the community help even with aluminum can collection.
They are a hard working group!

Happycamper....Thank you!

BeenThereDoneThat.....Thank you! I do agree that what send me over the edge was the tasteless signs and shirt and such. That was uncalled for!

jvlmom, I respect your views and feel it best the leleche league not be in the parade. Enjoy life.

I think the reason the Green Beret Marching Band is near the end of the parade is because for many of the members, that is their second time through. Many of the members are also members of the other marching bands that you saw. When they reached the end of the parade route, they had to quickly change uniforms and get back to the beginning of the route to march through again.
Marv Wopat was another one who did this. He drove the convertible with the parade marshal, Tim Cullen, and rode on the horse drawn wagon for Partners in Prevention.

Sorry, Janesvillean, I don't think so. It was a Toyota Camry Solara, which may be built in Toyota's factory in Kentucky...it's non-UAW factory in Kentucky.

as always it was a great parade, great weather and great fun, and if and when the GM plant here is closed and the UAW not active here, the parade may still go on, but not as great as it is now!

BTDT, I would assume that it was a Toyota built at the UAW plant in Fremont, California known as NUMMI. GM is a partner. Right now it builds the Toyota Corolla, Toyota Tacoma, and Pontiac Vibe.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/NUMMI

Also, who's brainy idea was it to haul Miss Beloit around in the UAW-sponsored Laborfest parade in a Toyota?

I disagree with sorry, and wholeheartedly agree with jvlmom. I don't have an issue with the LaLeche League walking in the parade to support their own cause. It was the tasteless signs and t-shirts that crossed the line, in my opinion.

jvlmom based on your insight we need to eliminate anything that society as a whole doesn't agree on from the parade. Which means there would be no parade.

happycamper.....Also, I am all for breast feeding and wish in the worst way that I could have. But due to medical issues and meds, I could not! I could have and put my kids in danger due to side effects of my meds on my kids, BUT I chose to protect them and feed them formula! I do not appreciate being told I am less of a person or a mother because of this!! I have been personally attacked several times and it is rediculous!

happycamper.....I am saying there is a better place other then a family parade to voice this crap! I also have been confronted PERSONALLY in stores because I bottle feed, I am saying that your opinions should be kept to yourself and pushed on/or put other people down because they formula feed! I have been told I do not care about my kids because I chose to formula feed, I have been told I am less of a mother because I formula feed. This is what makes me so mad about it! They got rid of the Pro-Choice people because of conflict and such in the parade, I think they should do away with this bunch of people also in the parade! The parade is not the time nor place for stuff like that!

jvlmom, Kinda intrestining that you are against the breast feeding paraders and their message yet you feel your message/ views should be read. It's a free country and we are all welcome to voice our views. why must we run downs one's views to gain support for ours?
p.s.- I could care less about breast feeding!

dailynewsreader: Totally agree with your statement about the Green Berets. I know there have been articles in the gazette in regards to them. I also remember when Janesville had a competitive drum corps that competed in DCI and religiously participated in the parade. The complication comes from the expense of equipment and travel and also that fewer adults have an interest.

I agree completely on the comment about the Green Beret Marching Band!

I also have to comment on the group that was in the parade about the breast feeding. I have to say that this stuff DOES NOT belong in a parade. Everyone has their own personal opinions and there is another time and place for issues like that. I do not think the signs these ladies were carrying were appropriate. I belive that breastfeeding is a PERSONAL choice and it is not for everyone. There are also medical reasons out there that some moms cannot breasfeed. I DO NOT think that formula is poison and also did not like the sign that said "BABIES ARE BORN TO BE BREASTFED". They are NOT born to be breast fed, they are born out of love and brought into this world to be loved by their parents and families. I think this kind crap should be banned from the parade! Also, the sign that said "Breast milk prevents cradle cap, diapers rashes etc....." that is also a BUNCH OF BULL! I know several moms who have breast fed and their babies have HAD cradle cap, ear infections, diaper rashes. I also know women who formula feed (I am one of them) and their kids have been perfectly healthy, no ear infections, colds, diaper rashes etc.......

Without sounding disrespectful, if you are going to live in this country, and be an American, STAND UP FOR THE FLAG at the parade. If you aren't aware of this common courtesy and respect. Now you know.

This has nothing to do with GM but it saddens me to see a great organization like the Green Beret Marching Band from Janesville,be the Last entry in its HOMETOWN parade.By the time these hard working adults and young people made it through to the end of the parade many people had already left.They sounded and looked great and should get more support for all the hard work and dedication they all give to the program from their community.
This is a great opportunity for kids and young adults to have learn a new art, responsibility and self confidence and gives them a positive direction to be involved with and grow with.
Hats off to all who keep this program going--Jack,Martha,and all the staff and parents.
,they could use support from their community who they proudly represent.
maybe the gazette could do a feature on this organization to show Janesville what a great group it has representing it and how it can help it grow.

Paul Ryan is up for re-election in the Fall. The point that the article was making about Russ Feingold was that he was not up for re-election this year, yet he still marched in the parade.

Didn't I see Rep Paul Ryan in the parade? Why not mention him it's his home town too.