Take a look, and see a sampling of what those who came out watched – at this delightful community event that spans many neighborhoods …
As the parade forms at Eastport Plaza, Ronald Beymer polishes up his 1963 Thunderbird convertible, making sure it’s ready for the parade.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
The 6th Annual 82nd Avenue of Roses Parade – the first Portland Rose Festival Sanctioned Event of the 2012 season – marched and rolled up the 44-block long thoroughfare, under puffy clouds and blue sky on April 28.
“The weather is delightful – for this we’re thankful,” said Eastport Plaza manager and parade organizer, Dianne Gill.
Members of the US Army’s 25th Infantry Division ready their vehicles for the parade.
As word spread about the annual event, the crowds have grown over the years – with the 2012 edition attracting an estimated 4,000 people. Again this year, the parade route was from Eastport Plaza north to the Montavilla Neighborhood. “This special event draws positive attention to all the wonderful things East Portland has to offer,” Gill noted.
The parade is truly a collaborative effort among neighbors, businesses, and civic groups, Gill observed. “It’s great to have so many parade entries from outside East Portland come to participate.”
Volunteers Raelynn Evans, Kathryn Notson, and Nancy Chapin check parade entrants in as they arrive.
Already, Gill said, the committee is planning for the 7th Edition of the 82nd Avenue of Roses Parade – scheduled for April 17, 2013.
2012 82nd Avenue of Roses Parade Photo Album
Volunteers Cody Watkins, a Serendipity Center student, and PSU student Nicole Agnew – two of dozens of volunteers – block traffic, as the parade approaches.
Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1442 serve as the parade’s Color Guard.
This banner lets folks know it’s officially “parade time” in outer East Portland.
Portland Police Bureau East Precinct Commander Michael Lee drives the parade’s official Pace Car.
Grand Marshall Nick Storie, the man who’s rehabilitating the historic Bob White Theater on Foster Road, says he’s thrilled to be included in the event.
The streets are lined with a folks, as the happy parade makes its way north, toward SE Division Street.
Walking with the Burgerville entry is Portland Mayor Sam Adams.
Following the magic ball, a colorful, swirling and soaring dragon – animated by the Lee’s Association Lion Dance Team – is always a welcome participant.
Riding in this Gresham Ford Mustang are leaders of the East Portland Chamber of Commerce, with their president, Judy Leach of Adventist Medical Center, sitting high and waving to everyone.
Yup! It’s a real army tank – restored and driven by volunteers who say “We love seeing the looks of peoples’ faces when we roll by!”
Portland City Commissioner Amanda Fritz is welcomed warmly as she again participates in this outer East Portland event.
One of several drum lines from the Last Regiment of Syncopated Drummers again deliver a high-energy, heart-pounding performance.
Past “Spirit of Portland” award winner, and parade sponsor, Richard Kiely of Home Run Graphics, again participates in the parade – with his wife, Princess Gail, at the wheel.
Many of the many specialty vehicles to be on display at the Carnival Days Community Fair that follows, also participate in the parade.
The 2012 82nd Avenue of Roses Parade was presented by Eastport Plaza, and was sponsored by Walmart, with a Neighborhood Small Grant from SE Uplift, by Charlie Bretz Tire Factory, by the Portland Tribune, and also by Powellhurst-Gilbert Neighborhood Association, Portland Community College, Fast Signs, S2 Imaging, Portland Chinese Times, The Support Group, and East Portland News.
For more information about the 82nd Avenue of Roses Business Association, see their website: CLICK HERE.
© 2012 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News
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