Traditions of all kinds at Lake Zurich's Alpine Days parade

Sometimes the most interesting action on the parade route is along the sidelines.

There, among the moms, dads, kids and dogs at the Lake Zurich Lions Club Annual Alpine Fest parade, lurks a young boy with mischievous intentions.

Armed with a garden hose, 9-year-old Russell Mazeika darts out of the shadows with the nozzle set on "jet."

Unsuspecting marchers scream, duck and laugh as he showers them like a firefighter at a flaming building.

"We do this every year," says Russell's dad, Frank. "It's becoming a tradition. It's always hot and this is a nice way for kids to cool off."

With their house right on Main Street, the Mazeikas have a clear shot at the nearly 100 entries in the annual march. Nearly 65 years old, the parade is one of the largest in Lake County says Lions Club President Scott Hicks. The event culminates the three day fest held in Lions Park. Hicks says it takes nearly 400 volunteers to pull off the event.

Not everybody is fair game for the Mazeika's attack. Father and son do have standards.

"We avoid the clowns because of their makeup. The police get a pass, bagpipers or anyone on horseback," Frank said. "We're not getting the Color Guard or floats with electronics on board either."

Like a head coach on the sidelines, Frank barks instructions to Russell as the units pass.

"Hey, here comes the moms and tots group. Don't fire 'till you see the whites of their eyes," he says. "Hose 'em down boy! Not in the face. Aim high. Go for an arc. Nice job!"

Most victims take the watery assault in stride. Like dodging flying Starburst and boxes of Skittles, it's just another hazard on the parade route. They chuckle and move on.

But team Mazeika got their comeuppance when a float-load of Cub Scouts unleashed a surprise counter attack.

Wielding giant Super Soakers, the troop nailed Russell in the head and chest. Water dripping from his light blue T-shirt down to his orange Crocs, he sought safety behind a maple tree.

Beaten down but undaunted, Russell says he'll be back. He's having too great a time soaking the marchers.

"It's fun to watch them put their hands in front of their faces and scream," Russell said. "I'm sure we'll do this next year too."