Fifty years ago, Walt Disney was the Grand Marshal for the 77th Annual Tournament of Roses Parade held in Pasadena. The theme was "it's a small world." Sadly, Walt would pass away by year's end.
Flashing forward to 1980, Frank Sinatra was the Grand Marshal. Here is his gigantic floral recreation:
and the Chairman of the Board himself:
As it so happens, I was marching in the parade with my high school band that somewhat chilly New Year's Day, too:
Playing my alto saxophone:
You can read more about our fundraising, rehearsals, and other performances during that memorable trip in 1980 here: http://www.tehistory.org/hqda/html/v30/v30n1p021.html
Hope you are all enjoying 2016 and sticking to your resolutions!
More Daveland photography at main website.
Wow! That's really cool that you were actually in the Tournament of Roses Parade. It' must've been a thrill for you. I'm a big fan of this parade along with the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. Never seen either in person, but still enjoy watching both on television.
ReplyDeleteAnd then there's Walt Disney. He was a big part of my early childhood. I actually remember when he was alive. Hard to believe that come the end of this year he'll have been gone for half a century.
I'm feeling optimistic. So far so good in 2016. Thanks, Dave.
Certainly a cherished memory there Dave. Happy New Year!
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