By this time next week we will be in the new year and the latest national holiday will be over for another year. Another year of the Tournament of Roses and the Rose Bowl will be put into the history books.
I have a love/hate relationship with holidays. Love having that extra day off, the 3-day weekend, to do whatever my heart desires, as much as the next guy, or gal. Such as to do nothing! Or, sleep in late, get some Rest & Relaxation. You know, treat the day like a true holiday! How many of you take those kinda holidays?? I prefer to take my holidays when everyone else is still working and not at the same campground with me! I’ll return to this problem in the near future, like next year.
But we’re still in the old year. 2011. The week between the national holidays of Christmas and New Years. I’ve experienced this weird period many a time in Pasadena. I’ve never quite gotten comfortable with it.
The day after Christmas the Rose float building pavilions begin to fill up with volunteers – dedicated & serious. They put on the final and most important touches: flowers and other natural time sensitive items in the final week leading up to the parade. “Millions” of people from near and far donate their time to this last effort.
Aside from the independently/self-built floats, construction is handled chiefly at four locations: The Rose Palace (above), Rosemont/Brookside Pavilion both in Pasadena, Irwindale, and Azusa.
Looking at these photographs may lead you to say, “Where are your ‘millions’ of workers?” Well, my shot above was taken back in September. And the one below last week. But if you wish to volunteer this week you need to contact either of these float building companies:
Fiesta
Phoenix
Artistic
I’ve noted on this blog before how much, much more I am a Rose Parade supporter than a parade goer. And a float volunteer? Ha! Well, if God wills it one day! How’s about you: what’s been your experience with going to the parade and/or volunteering?
Gotta Get Some Good Sleep. Stay Thirsty My Friends
Cafe Pasadena 