Third annual ‘Grand Parade’ on 82nd Avenue of Roses marches on April 25th

Come on out and see bands, Portland Rose Festival Princesses, classic cars and much more during the 9 AM parade – and enjoy the Eastport Plaza Carnival that follows …

Here’s how last year’s parade looked as it began and headed north on 82nd Avenue of Roses. Organizers say this year’s parade will be even bigger, better, and more exciting.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
After working all year long, the committee behind the 2009 82nd Avenue of Roses Grand Parade says they’re ready to have a great time during this year’s edition – scheduled for Saturday, April 25, at 9:00 a.m.

“We’re thrilled that the event grows every year,” proclaims Ken Turner, president of the 82nd Avenue of Roses Business Association, “and this year’s parade will be better than ever.”

Parade starts at Eastport Plaza
The 2009 82nd Avenue of Roses Grand Parade begins at Eastport Plaza, just north of SE Holgate Boulevard. It marches north on the Avenue of Roses, and finally disperses in the Montavilla Neighborhood area, Turner tells us.

New this year will be a reviewing stand at Eastport Plaza, in addition to the bleachers and public announcement area, just north of SE Division Street – hosted by Portland Community College’s Southeast Center.

Help by volunteering as a “street monitor”, like these two did last year.

Worlds’ largest ‘standing’ marching band
One of the highlights of this year’s parade will be the “One More Time Around Marching Band” – “the world’s largest standing musical organization” – regularly featured in Portland Rose Festival parades and events. Kell’s Irish Pipes & Drums Corps will also enliven the parade this year.

The parade will be led by members of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1442 color guard.

You’ll see the Portland Rose Festival Court Princesses in their first official group appearance – accompanied by the dapperly dressed Royal Rosarians, and members of the Portland Rose Society.

All kinds of specialty vehicles, from antique military trucks to classic cars, will cruise up 82nd Avenue.

“Many other unique, colorful individuals and groups are making arrangements to march in this lively parade. In all, about 50 entries will grace the parade this year,” Turner adds.

Check out Carnival Days after the parade at Eastport Plaza and make a fun day of it!

Community Carnival and Bike Rodeo after the parade
Several after-parade events are scheduled at Eastport Plaza and the Montavilla/South Tabor Business District.

From April 23 through 26, Eastport Plaza hosts “Carnival Days”, featuring FUNtastic amusement rides and games. “But after the parade, we have a ton of things happening here on April 25 in addition to the thrill rides,” reports Eastport Plaza’s Sadee Daniels. They include:

Clown balloon artist and juggler;
Stilt walkers;
Pony rides;
Caricature artist and face painting;
Live music with The Carolina Pump Station, Trash Can Joe, Get a Life Marching Band, and a Strolling Barbershop Quartet;
KGON 92.3 will broadcast live, and will provide a chance to win a Ford F150 and a Harley Davidson “Rocker”; and,
There will be informational booths staffed by community service providers and civic groups.

And, on the north end of the parade, members of the Montavilla/South Tabor Business Association host a Bike Rodeo and safety clinic on S.E. Yamhill Street – where the parade disbands.

Don’t let this year’s parade pass you by! Make plans to come out on April 24 at 9:00 a.m.!

Not too late to volunteer
If you’re not content to sit on the sidelines watching a parade pass you by, consider volunteering on the day of the parade. “We need volunteers to help, by briefly closing off side streets as the parade passes,” said Johnni Jones, the event’s volunteer coordinator. “It’s easy – and you get to watch the parade!” Contact her by e-mailing: johnni.jones@gmail.com.

Registration for the parade begins at 7:30, and closes off at 8:30 am; the parade begins promptly at 9 am, Turner smiles, “Come out and enjoy the day, at this great family community event.”

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