Category: Trophies

Rose Parade 2019 float awards; The UPS Store takes Sweepstakes

On: By: LBM
The UPS Store “Books Keep Us On Our Toes” won the 2019 Rose Parade Sweepstakes trophy.

by Laura Berthold Monteros

The Tournament of Roses announced the winners of the 24 float awards for the 2019 Rose Parade to the media at shortly after 6:30 a.m. Tuesday morning. The chart of winners is below, but here are some observations before you peruse it.

Sweepstakes was won by The UPS Store, with a giant, toe-dancing ostrich. It brings the trophy back to Fiesta Parade Floats, after Paradiso Parade Floats took it home last year. It’s fitting that though Paradiso is no more, former owner Charles Meier was the designer for The UPS Store. His company was the first one in more than two decades to break Fiesta’s Sweepstakes streak with floats sponsored by Singpoli in 2016 and 2018.

Once again, Meier turned in a hundred-percent win percentage, with The UPS Store (Sweepstakes), Donate Life (Judges), and Easterseals (Leishman Public Spirit) floats. His designs were built by Fiesta Parade Floats.

Fitting also was the Theme award going to Shriners Hospitals for Children “Fezzy’s Garden of Hope and Healing.” Tournament Pres. Gerald Freeny chose the theme “The Melody of Life,” because through his health struggles and two transplants, music had brought him healing. That, and because his wife and daughter insisted on it.

A word on the International award: Readers may recall that The Rose Examiner has sometimes carped about this award, because there is usually only one float competing, China Airlines. This year, however, the float was so spectacular in design and entertainment, with dancers and drummers and brilliant florals, that is not only deserves the International award, but surely would have won an award in any case.

FTD is the official floral partner of the Tournament of Roses. The judges were Preston Bailey (who designed the new Royal Court float), Michael E. Berry, and Kimberly Oldis.

Here are the award totals: Fiesta Parade Floats, 9; Phoenix Decorating Company, 8; AES, 2; self-built, 5 (out of six organizations). The designer with the most wins was Michelle Lofthouse with 6 of 10 competing designs. Meier had the highest percentage.

2019 FLOAT AWARDS PRESENTED BY FTD

Award Description Participant Theme Builder
Sweepstakes Most beautiful entry: encompassing float design, floral presentation and entertainment The UPS Store, Inc. Books Keep Us On Our Toes Fiesta
Americana Most outstanding depiction of national treasures and traditions Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day Garden Fresh Phoenix
Animation Most outstanding use of animation Burbank Tournament of Roses Association Stompin’ Good Time Self-Built
Bob Hope Humor Most whimsical and amusing float Northwestern  Mutual Spend Your Life Living Fiesta
Crown City Innovator Most outstanding use of imagination, innovation and technology Trader Joe’s Company Ride Captain Ride Phoenix
Director Most outstanding artistic design and use of floral and non-floral
materials		 Sierra Madre Rose Float Association Harmony’s Garden Self-Built
Extraordinaire Most extraordinary float Cal Poly Universities Far Out Frequencies Self-Built
Fantasy Most outstanding display of fantasy and imagination Western Asset Management Company Yellow Submarine Phoenix
Founder Most outstanding float built and decorated by volunteers from a
community or organization		 La Cañada Flintridge Tournament of Roses
Association		 Tree Frog Night! Self-Built
Golden State Most outstanding depiction of life in California Big Bear Rose Parade Association Play-Rest-Repeat Fiesta
Grand Marshal Most outstanding creative concept and float design Stella Rosa Wines Taste The Magic featuring
Kool & The Gang		 Fiesta
International Most outstanding float from outside the United States China Airlines Rhythm of Taiwan AES
Isabella Coleman Most outstanding presentation of color and color harmony through
floral design		 United Sikh Mission A Divine Melody Resonates In
All		 Phoenix
Judges Most outstanding float design and dramatic impact Donate Life Rhythm of the Heart Fiesta
Leishman Public Spirit Most outstanding floral presentation from a non-commercial
participant		 Easterseals Celebrating Easterseals 100
Years of Disability Services		 Fiesta
Mayor Most outstanding float from a participating city South Pasadena Tournament of Roses Three Little Birds Self-Built
Past President Most outstanding innovation in the use of floral and non-floral materials Underground Service Alert of Southern
California (DigAlert)		 Backyard Harmony Fiesta
President Most outstanding use and presentation of flowers City of Hope Harmony of Hope Phoenix
Princess Most outstanding floral presentation among entries 35 feet and under
in length		 City of Alhambra Home Tweet Home Phoenix
Queen Most outstanding presentation of roses Farmers Insurance Group A Carousel of Experience Phoenix
Showmanship Most outstanding display of showmanship and entertainment Universal Pictures & Dreamworks Animation presents How To Train Your Dragon How to Train Your Dragon – The Hidden World AES
Theme Most outstanding presentation of the Rose Parade Theme Shriners Hospitals for Children Fezzy’s Garden of Hope and
Healing		 Phoenix
Tournament
Volunteer		 Most outstanding floral presentation of the Rose Parade Theme among
floats 35 feet and under in length		 City of Torrance/ Torrance Rose Float
Association		 The Power of Music Fiesta
Wrigley Legacy Most outstanding display of floral presentation, float design and
entertainment		 Dole Packaged Foods Rhythm of Paradise Fiesta

 

Float judges for 2019 Rose Parade announced

On: By: LBM

Preston Bailey, Michael Berry, and Kimberly Oldis will judge the floats in the 130th Rose Parade

 

by Laura Berthold Monteros

The Tournament of Roses announced the three judges who will determine which float entries receive awards in the 130th Rose Parade on Jan. 1, 2019. The three are event designer Preston Bailey, president/CEO of the Kentucky Derby Festival Michael E. Berry, and floral and float designer Kimberly Oldis. The judges will distribute the 24 awards based on criteria including creative design, floral craftsmanship, artistic merit, computerized animation, thematic interpretation, floral and color presentation and dramatic impact.

Readers know The Rose Examiner usually does not state an opinion on the choices made by the Tournament, but this time, we will make an exception. Readers may have their own opinions, based on the bios below. Please state them in the comments.

First, we are not sure why only computerized animation will be considered. Manual animation on floats is rare today, but it does occur, and animation is still animation.

Then, there are the judges. Kimberly Oldis has, in our opinion, sterling credentials. She is not only a floral designer, but has designed Rose Parade floats for Charisma Floats from 2005 to 2010 and for Cal Poly Universities. But what about the others?

Preston Bailey has created stunning designs for weddings and other events, many of which would work as an element on floats, but they are not floats. A stationary installation is different from a moving sculpture. Will his experience translate into an understanding of how float design works? That it can’t be just a pretty piece, that it has to tell a story in 30 seconds that works on both TV and a city street?

Michael Berry certainly has event creds, but he will not be judging events. He will be judging floats. If the Tournament wanted to bring him on to help them jazz up the events surrounding the Rose Parade—pre- and post-parade viewing for example—it would be welcome. But a Rose Parade float is not an event, it is a creation.

Our biggest question is why, after recently moving away from the obligatory celebrity judge that was part of the equation for years, would the Tournament select two people who, in our opinion, are not qualified? What is the Tournament looking for?

Meet the judges

Here they are, straight from the media release (with style corrections), the three people who will decide who gets what in the 2019 Rose Parade.

Preston Bailey was named one of the best wedding planners in the world by Vogue Magazine and has been globally-celebrated for his unique ability to transform ordinary spaces into lush, theatrical environments. As a premier event designer, he has established a client roster that includes celebrities, royal families, CEOs and athletes. Since opening his design studio in 1980, Preston has been sought out to create one-of-a-kind, transformative designs that serve as backdrops for some of the most memorable moments of his clients’ lives.

A designer with a passion for creating designs to be enjoyed by the public as well as his clients, Preston has created numerous art installations featured across the world with showcases in New York, Las Vegas, Hong Kong, Jakarta, Taiwan, Macao and London. This passion for creating designs, also translated into his tabletop linen collection, a collaborative effort with Nüage Designs. He has also developed many licensing agreements, with, Sandals Resorts, Godiva Chocolate, Uncle Ben’s Rice and Hewlett-Packard among others.

Preston’s dedication to supporting and remaining accessible to the event designing industry, initiated the idea for his PB Protégé program, a series of specialized master classes that offer mentorship and education to industry professionals at all levels. The author of seven books—five of them bestsellers—Preston is often asked to share his experience through speaking engagements, seminars, editorial profiles and television and radio interviews.

Michael E. Berry is the longest serving President/CEO in the history of the Kentucky Derby Festival, one of the nation’s largest civic celebrations. Beginning his career at Festival in 1986, following service as an assistant to Kentucky’s governor, Mike’s experience has been 32 years in the making. Mike oversees the planning and production of the award-winning celebration with nearly 70 events on the Festival’s official schedule. With a staff of 22 and a 75-member board of directors, Mike orchestrates this award-winning celebration each year. The Derby Festival spans over two-weeks and seeks to dazzle and delight spectators from Louisville and surrounding areas.

Mike is a member of WDRB/FOX 41 Advisory Board, the Bellarmine University Communications Department Task Force, treasurer of the General Grand Chapter of Eastern Star, and a trustee of the Episcopal Church Home Foundation of Kentucky.

He has served on the boards of several organizations including the board of directors for the International Festivals and Events Association (IFEA), IFEA Foundation, Music Theatre of Louisville, Stage One Family Theatre, Louisville Theatrical Association, and Louisville Convention and Visitors Bureau. In 2008, Mike was an inductee in the International Festivals and Events Association Hall of Fame and an inductee in the Phi Kappa Tau Fraternity Hall of Fame. In 2012, Mike was inducted into the DeMolay International Hall of Fame and was the 2011 recipient of the Louisville Defender Outstanding Community Service Award.

Kimberly Oldis AIFD has been involved in the floral industry for over 44 years, including 21 years as a member of The American Institute of Floral Designers. Kim serves as the past president for the AIFD National Board. She previously held many elected offices in the North Central and North West Regional Chapters of AIFD. In 2008, Kim was the AIFD Symposium Chairman in Chicago. Volunteering for the Institute is her contribution to the floral industry.

Kim was involved with the Rose Parade from 2005 to 2010 as a Rose Parade float designer with Charisma Floats. Most recently she had volunteered as a designer with Cal Poly. Through Charisma, she had the privilege to be on the floral design team at the Academy Awards for four years. Kim had the honor to design for the 2004 Presidential Inauguration in Washington, D.C. and was invited to design in 2015 at the White House.

Currently Kim is a freelance and event designer. For 16 years she owned Kimberly’s Flower Shop in Glen Ellyn, Ill. From 2001 to 2007, she was the assistant director of the Chicago Flower and Garden Show. “Engage, Educate and Enlighten” is the mantra that drives Kim’s floral mission; floristry is her passion.

 

Floral Design award winners in the 2018 Rose Parade

On: By: LBM

City of Hope has been transforming the future of health since 1913, through research, prevention, and treatment. The float depicts one of the Wishing Trees on campus, with notes of hope fluttering from the branches. It won the coveted Isabella Coleman Award.

 

by Laura Berthold Monteros

Since the foundation of the Tournament of Roses Parade is flower-covered floats, it may seem odd that in the new system of float awards there is a specific category for Floral Design. The floats that take home awards in this category display the most effective, beautiful, creative, and bountiful use of fresh botanical materials. One of the most prestigious awards, the Isabella Coleman, is in this category.

The winners in the 2018 Rose Parade are listed in the table below, and descriptions of flowering and animation are in the captions in the photo gallery. It’s a large gallery, but the floats are well worth the clicks.

Some interesting notes on a few of the floats:

City of Hope rider Daniel Bliley began donating platelets on his 18th birthday in memory of his mother, who died of leukemia when Daniel was 8. Fifteen years later, he has donated 200 times. Read more about this young man on the City of Hope website.

United Sikh Mission is a Southern California nonprofit founded by Rashpal Singh in 2006 to benefit the poor in rural Punjab. One of the major efforts is providing eye clinics. The dedication to service is foundational to Sikhism, which can be seen in this depiction of the Golden Temple kitchen (langar) which feeds 100,000 people a day. The Leishman Public Spirit Award, the organization’s first, is well-deserved.

A sapling from one of Hiroshima’s A-bomb survivor trees was on the Rotary float and slated to be planted in one Rotary’s Peace Gardens.

More than 97 percent of the flowers on the Cal Poly Universities float were grown in the State of California, which garnered them California Grown certification for the seventh year; the only Rose Parade float to do so. Masses of fresh flowers included 10,000 roses, 10,000 gerbera, 12,000 chrysanthemums, 12,000 button and cushion mums, and 1,000 irises.

Taiwan-based China Airlines signed the United for Wildlife Transport Taskforce Buckingham Palace Declaration in 2017. The airline has pledged to not transport illegal wildlife and related products.

 

2018 FLORAL DESIGN CATEGORY
Award Sponsor “Theme” Builder, Designer
President Award for most outstanding use and presentation of flowers Western Asset Management Company “Oceans of Possibility” Phoenix Decorating Company, Michelle Lofthouse
Isabella Coleman Award for most outstanding presentation of color harmony through floral design City of Hope “Transforming Lives with Hope” Phoenix Decorating Company, Michelle Lofthouse
Queen Award for most outstanding presentation of roses Downey Rose Float Association “Working Together” Self Built, Jeff Shadic, Jason Redfox, Thom Neighbors
Leishman Public Spirit Award for most outstanding floral design and display from a non-commercial participant United Sikh Mission “Serving Kindness” Phoenix Decorating Company, Michelle Lofthouse
Princess Award for most floral display among entries 35 feet and under in length Rotary Rose Parade Float Committee “Planting the Seeds of Service” Phoenix Decorating Company, Michelle Lofthouse
Past President Award for most outstanding innovation in the use of floral and non-floral materials Cal Poly Universities “Dreams Take Flight” Self Built, N/A
Founder Award for most outstanding floral display built and decorated by volunteers from a community or organization Burbank Tournament of Roses Association “Sand-Sational Helpers” Self Built, Catherine Glandeon, Fred Fraleigh
International Award for most outstanding floral display among floats from outside the United States China Airlines “Caring for Our Sea” Artistic Entertainment Services, John Ramirez
Tournament Volunteer Award for most outstanding floral display of the rose parade theme among floats 35 feet and under in length Shriners Hospitals for Children “Caring for Kids Around the World” Phoenix Decorating Company, Cynthia McMinimy

All photos are copyrighted. Contact administrator for permissions.

A SCUBA diver explores kelp forests and a coral reef in the waters surrounding Taiwan on the China Airlines float. The heads on the turtles turn, and a bubble machine adds to the undersea feel.
The China Airlines float was almost entirely covered in dry materials, including statice, onion and poppy seed, palm fiber, strawflower, lentils, and split peas. Fresh materials included 5,000 orange, pink, and yellow roses, orchids, fruit, and foliage.
Day transitions into night from front to back, as Paula the Koala, Ollie the Otter, and Rusty the Red Panda fly through LED-lit clouds on the Cal Poly Universities float. Animal heads turn, propellers and pinwheels rotate, and the Cal Poly letters bob up and down.
The front and rear planes on the Cal Poly float roll side to side and feature a complete set of control surfaces (flaps, rudders, ailerons, elevators), and the front of the pod under the plane bobs and rolls.
Humpback whales follow a pair of cavorting dolphins through an underseascape bursting with hundreds of shades of floral, dry, and fresh materials. The turtle moves its head and fins as real bubbles float around it. The design was selected by Western Asset employees.
49,200 fresh flowers were used on the Western Asset float, including roses, anthurium, protea, cabbage kale, ferns, eremurus, orchids, Leucadendron, kangaroo paw. Thousands of kumquats and 100,000 each of raisins and cranberries created the octopus at the rear.
A canopy of gorgeous flowers creates a City of Hope Wishing Tree, complete with tags bearing handwritten wishes. City of Hope is one of the foremost comprehensive cancer centers in the country, leading in research, prevention, and treatment of cancer and other diseases.
Riders on the City of Hope float: Dodger Enrique "Kike" Hernandez, former Dodgers GM & VP Fred Claire, platelet donor Daniel Bliley, cancer survivors Cory Norton, Rosemary Estrada, Chad Bible, Nicole Allen, Becky Velazquez-Mclntyre, Elizabeth Jenkins, Gary Lorenzini, and Jackie Solano
This fluffy grass and cotton bunny waiting for peaches to ripen is “a symbol of the watchful gaze of Rotarians” throughout the world. The jacket is red, yellow, and white mums with cranberries and blueberries.
White suiters are a friendly bunch! A Rotary outwalker greets a Tournament volunteer as the float rounds the corner. 53,300 fresh flowers decorated the float, with roses in white and various shades of pink covering the deck.
In his sixth Rose Parade appearance, Shriner astronaut Fezzy watches over a spinning earth amid planets and a space station. The 372,250 fresh flowers include roses (including Black Magic, specially grown for Phoenix), whole carnations, anthurium, protea, and heliconia.
Riders: Imperial Potentate Gary Bergenske & wife Anne; trustee Peter Diaz & wife Vicky; patient ambassadors, Alec Cabacungan, Emily Mellish, Isabella Rose, and Kechi Okwuchi. The float celebrates the opening of the Shriners for Children Medical Center outpatient facility in Pasadena.
The Downey Rose Float Association gathered about 10,000 roses, 3,000 orchids, and 2,500 gerbera in pinks, oranges, and yellows to create the arrangements and carpet on their float. The lattice globe rotated.
Miss Downey Guile Ledesma was front and center in white, accompanied by princesses Gessica Manteca, Connie Martinez, Samantha Meza, and Katherene Santana. Downey chooses princesses in various age groups, from young adult to very young girls.
The man with the camera walking in front of the United Sikh Mission float was hanging out near the press stands before the parade, looking so happy and excited, we thought he belonged in this photo.
Pots are filled with real vegetables, including squash, broccoli, and bell peppers. The leaf plates are larger replicas of the thousands of plates that are handcrafted daily for the Golden Temple langar. 90,959 fresh flowers were used on the float.
Real bread sits on the griddle, and baskets behind are filled with various colors of potatoes, cauliflower, carrots, and squash. Flowers include roses, orchids, carnations, iris, eremurus, gladiola, and stock. Lemon branches and yellow apples stand in for a jujube tree.
Sea creatures and birds pick up trash and recycling on the beach on the Burbank Tournament of Roses Association float. Can you spot the seagull with the bikini top? Animation: undulating waves, bobbing fish, rotating heads and moving tentacles, a flying seagull, rocking otter.
The florals on the Burbank float have a wonderful, beachy way of spilling over, like the iris waves and sandy roses. There were 10,400 roses 11,000 iris stems, more than 10,000 mums, and amaranthus, orchids, carnations, poinsettias, marigolds, and succulents.

2019 Rose Parade

 

 

The Rose Parade is a grand and glorious pageant, viewed by an estimated 80 million people around the world. It’s also a small-town parade, with the Queen and Court chosen from local young women and six of the 45 or so floats self-built by local cities and a university. Most of the equestrian units come from the Southwest, but the bands come from all over the world.

Tickets

Where to get tickets and parking for the 2019 Tournament of Roses Parade

There is no such thing as the Rose BOWL Parade!

Floats

General Information

Visiting the float barns during 2019 Rose Parade Deco Week

Rose Parade 2019 float entries, builders, designers

Tournament of Roses announces Rose Parade Opening Spectacular and Grand Finale

Float judges for 2019 Rose Parade announced

Rose Parade trophies get an update for 2018

Rose Parade 2019 events: Buy tickets for Bandfest, Equestfest, Decorating Places, Showcase of Floats

Documentary ‘Float’ chronicles Burbank’s entry from concept to Colorado Blvd.

Building Rose Parade floats: The tools of the trade

Put flowers on a float! Some tips

Bands

Bandfest show schedule for the 130th Rose Parade

Marching bands chosen to play ‘The Melody of Life’ in the 2019 Rose Parade

Equestrians

Equestrian units for 2019 Rose Parade announced

2019 Tournament of Roses

 

THE MELODY OF LIFE

The 2019 Tournament of Roses in photos and stories

With bands from all over the world marching in the 130th Rose Parade and performing at Bandfest, “America’s New Year Celebration” promises to live up to the theme “The Melody of Life.” The days before and after the parade and 105th Rose Bowl Game are filled with things to do for people of all ages and abilities. Locals and visitors can attend Bandfest, Equestfest, Decorating Places, Showcase of Floats, and Live on Green

The big events, of course, are the parade and game, held on Tuesday, Jan. 1, 2019. The Rose parade is a two-hour extravaganza of flower-covered floats, cars carrying Tournament of Roses celebrities, marching bands, and equestrian units. The Rose Bowl Game pits top football teams in “The Granddaddy of Them All,” the oldest post-season collegiate bowl game.

Whether you watch online, on television, or live in Pasadena, The Rose Examiner will keep you informed. This page will be updated as new articles are added. Subscribe for free by filling out the box at the top of the left column, and be sure to bookmark this page and return to it frequently! You can also follow “All Things Rose Parade” on Facebook.

Poster courtesy of Pasadena Tournament of Roses

General Information

INSIDER’S GUIDE TO THE 2019 TOURNAMENT OF ROSES

130TH TOURNAMENT OF ROSES CALENDAR

There is no such thing as the Rose BOWL Parade!

Will it rain on my Rose Parade? The rules: No Sundays, water themes, or Supreme Court Justices equals no rain

What’s in a nickname? How Pasadena California is known to locals and the world

Make a real difference with Real Change meters

Rose Parade

Information, floats, marching bands, and equestrians

The 2019 Royal Court

Articles & albums about the Tournament of Roses Royal Court

Rose Bowl Game

Rose Bowl Game 2019 tickets now on sale

Ohio State University and University of Washington to play in 105th Rose Bowl Game

Rose Bowl Hall of Fame 2018: George Halas, Randall McDaniel, Pop Warner and Vince Young

Special Events

Tickets for the 2019 Tournament of Roses Parade on sale now

Rose Parade 2019 events: Buy tickets for Bandfest, Equestfest, Decorating Places, Showcase of Floats

Revamped Deco Week for 2019 Tournament of Roses

Sip & Savor during Deco Week

Tournament House open for public tours through August

Celebrities & Sponsors

Tournament of Roses Pres. Gerald Freeny sings ‘The Melody of Life’

Gerald Freeny elected Tournament of Roses president; theme is ‘The Melody of Life’

Tournament of Roses announces executive committee for 2018-2019

Tournament of Roses creates Rose Parade development office

Helpful Links

Tournament of Roses

Tournament of Roses Parade Day Guide

Visit Pasadena Rose Parade spectator guide

Pasadena Convention and Visitors Bureau

Rose Bowl Stadium

Visit Pasadena Rose Bowl Game spectator guide

Rose Parade official tours at PrimeSport

Rose Bowl Game official tours at PrimeSport

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Singpoli American BD ‘Rising Above’ wins Sweepstakes award at 2018 Rose Parade

On: By: LBM

by Laura Berthold Monteros

With a story of transformation, the 2018 Singpoli American BD float “Rising Above” won the Sweepstakes award at the 129th Tournament of Roses Parade on Jan. 1, 2018. The float was designed by Charles Meier and built by Paradiso Parade Floats. It is Meier’s and Singpoli’s second Sweepstakes award, which is given for the “most beautiful entry, encompassing float design, floral presentation, and entertainment.”

The float illustrated the Legend of Fish Leaping Over the Dragon Gate, which tells of fish who swim upstream to the gate at the source of the Yellow River. The fish who leap over the gate are Continue reading “Singpoli American BD ‘Rising Above’ wins Sweepstakes award at 2018 Rose Parade” →

List: 129th Tournament of Roses floats and awards

On: By: LBM
Rose Parade theme banner float for 2018 in the last stages of decoration

by Laura Berthold Monteros

All the Rose Parade floats are so beautiful and creative that we thought readers would like to know more about them all. Here’s a list of all the floats that were in the 129th Rose Parade on Jan. 1, 2018, along with their designers and builders, and the awards won in both 2018 and 2017. This year’s winners are in bold.

Floats that did not compete in judging are presenting sponsor American Honda Motor Company, Tournament of Roses entries (theme banner float, the two football universities, Queen & Court), and Wells Fargo. For an explanation of the new awards for 2018, read “Rose Parade trophies get an update for 2018.”

129th Rose Parade Floats

Sponsor Title Builder Designer 2018 Award 2017 Trophy
24 Hour Fitness “Proud Sponsor of Everyday Athletes” AES John Ramirez Crown City Innovation
Ag PhD TV and Radio “Salute to Farmers” AES John Ramirez Wrigley Legacy
AIDS Healthcare Foundation “Keeping the Promise” Fiesta Parade Floats Art Aguirre Lathrop K. Leishman
Amazon Prime Grand Tour “Make Your Own Momentuum” Paradiso Parade Floats Charles Meier Crown City Innovator
American Armenian Rose Float Association “Armenian Roots” Phoenix Decorating Johnny Kanounji Judges Past Presidents
American Honda Motor Company “Power of Dreams Express” Phoenix Decorating Michelle Lofthouse
Burbank Tournament of Roses Association “Sand-Sational Helpers” Self-Built Catherine Glandeon, Fred Fraleigh Founder
Cal Poly Universities “Dreams Take Flight” Self-Built N/A Past President Founders’
China Airlines “Caring for Our Sea” AES John Ramirez International International
City of Alhambra, CA “Story Time” Phoenix Decorating Mike Abboud
City of Carson “Honoring the Past – Envisioning Our Future” Fiesta Parade Floats Art Aguirre
City of Hope “Transforming Our Lives with Hope” Phoenix Decorating Michelle Lofthouse Isabella Coleman
City of Los Angeles “Everyone Is Welcome” Fiesta Parade Floats Mike Abboud
City of Riverside “25th Annual Festival of Lights” Fiesta Parade Floats Stanley Meyer Golden State
City of Torrance “Protecting Nature…The Madrona Marsh Preserve” Fiesta Parade Floats Art Aguirre Mayor Tournament Volunteers
Dole Packaged Foods “Sharing Nature’s Bounty” Fiesta Parade Floats Stanley Meyer Grand Marshal’s Sweepstakes
Donate Life “The Gift of Time” Paradiso Parade Floats Charles Meier Theme Theme
Downey Rose Float Association “Working Together” Self-Built Jeff Shadic, Jason Redfox, Thom Neighbors Queen Governor’s
Farmers Insurance “Red Hot Mascot. Seen it, covered it” Phoenix Decorating Dave Pittman American Grand Marshal’s
Kaiser Permanente “Inspiring Healthy Communities” Fiesta Parade Floats Stanley Meyer
Kiwanis International “Racing to Serve Children” Phoenix Decorating Michelle Lofthouse
La Cañada Flintridge Tournament of Roses Association “Panda-monium” Self-Built Renee’ Hoss-Johnson, Brianne Johnson Bob Hope Humor Bob Hope Humor
Lions Clubs International “Preserving Our Environment” Phoenix Decorating Michelle Lofthouse
Lucy Pet “Paws for Life” Fiesta Parade Floats Mike Abboud Extraordinaire
Lutheran Laymen’s League “Bringing Christ to the Nations” Phoenix Decorating Michelle Lofthouse
Miracle-Gro “150 Years of Growing” Fiesta Parade Floats Stanley Meyer Queen’s
Northwestern Mutual “Letting Kids Be Kids” Fiesta Parade Floats Stanley Meyer Animation
Odd Fellows Rebekahs Rose Float “Sacrifice to Serve” Phoenix Decorating Michelle Lofthouse Director
Queen & Court Fiesta Parade Floats
Rotary “Planing the Seeds of Service” Phoenix Decorating Michelle Lofthouse Princess Princess’
Shriners Hospitals for Children “Caring for Kids Around the World” Phoenix Decorating Cynthia McMinimy Tournament Volunteer
Sierra Madre Rose Float Association “Chivalry!” Self-Built Joanne Garcia (concept) Fantasy Mayor’s
Singpoli American BD “Rising Above” Paradiso Parade Floats Charles Meier Sweepstakes Fantasy
South Pasadena Tournament of Roses Association “Booster Club” Self-Built SPTORA Design Committee
The Forum “The Story Lives On” Phoenix Decorating
The UPS Store, Inc. “Books Bring Dreams to Life” Paradiso Parade Floats Charles Meier Extraordinaire Isabella Coleman
Theme Banner Float “Making a Difference” Phoenix Decorating
Trader Joe’s “Hats Off” Phoenix Decorating Michelle Lofthouse Showmanship Tournament Special
Underground Service Alert of Southern California (DIGALERT) “Making It Safe for All” Fiesta Parade Floats Stanley Meyer Animation
United Sikh Mission “Serving Kindness” Phoenix Decorating Michelle Lofthouse Leishman Public Spirit
Wells Fargo Closing Show “America’s New Year Celebration” Phoenix Decorating
Western Asset Management Company “Oceans of Possibility” Phoenix Decorating Michelle Lofthouse President Director’s

 

2017 Rose Parade Float Galleries

“Be Your Own Knight,” the City of Torrance 2017 Rose Parade entry, won the Tournament Volunteers Trophy.

I have wanted to share all the wonderful photos taken of the Rose Parade by my daughter and photographer, but it’s been such a busy year that I haven’t been able to write them up with all the flowers and folks on the floats. I’m taking a shortcut and posting photo albums of the floats, bands, and equestrians that have not already been covered separately. Enjoy clicking through the galleries as they are added!

These photo galleries contain images of floats which have not been posted before. For articles on other floats, check out our 2017 Rose Parade main page. For a description of the trophies, read “What are the Rose Parade trophies and who gets them.”

Captions indicate Trophy: Float Name, Sponsor; Builder, Designer. All photos are copyright Ramona Monteros or Laura B. Monteros

Trophy Winners

Going Places

BDK, A Singpoli Affiliate; Trader Joe’s, The Bachelor, Ragú, China Airlines, Farmer’s, Western Asset

Fantasy Trophy: “The Monkey King: Journey to Success” from BDK, A Singpoli Affiliate; Paradiso Parade Floats, Charles Meier
Fantasy Trophy: “The Monkey King: Journey to Success” from BDK, A Singpoli Affiliate; Paradiso Parade Floats, Charles Meier
Fantasy Trophy: “The Monkey King: Journey to Success” from BDK, A Singpoli Affiliate; Paradiso Parade Floats, Charles Meier
Fantasy Trophy: “The Monkey King: Journey to Success” from BDK, A Singpoli Affiliate; Paradiso Parade Floats, Charles Meier
Tournament Special Trophy: “All Aboard! 50 Years of Serving the Best….” from Trader Joe’s; Phoenix Decorating Company, Dave Pittman
Tournament Special Trophy: “All Aboard! 50 Years of Serving the Best….” from Trader Joe’s; Phoenix Decorating Company, Dave Pittman
Tournament Special Trophy: “All Aboard! 50 Years of Serving the Best….” from Trader Joe’s; Phoenix Decorating Company, Dave Pittman
Tournament Special Trophy: “All Aboard! 50 Years of Serving the Best….” from Trader Joe’s; Phoenix Decorating Company, Dave Pittman
President's Trophy: “Echoes of Love” from The Bachelor; Fiesta Parade Floats, Stanley Meyer
President's Trophy: “Echoes of Love” from The Bachelor; Fiesta Parade Floats, Stanley Meyer
President's Trophy: “Echoes of Love” from The Bachelor; Fiesta Parade Floats, Stanley Meyer
President's Trophy: “Echoes of Love” from The Bachelor; Fiesta Parade Floats, Stanley Meyer
President's Trophy: “Echoes of Love” from The Bachelor; Fiesta Parade Floats, Stanley Meyer
National Trophy: “Simmered in Tradition” from RAGÚ Pasta Sauce; Paradiso Parade Floats, Charles Meier
National Trophy: “Simmered in Tradition” from RAGÚ Pasta Sauce; Paradiso Parade Floats, Charles Meier
National Trophy: “Simmered in Tradition” from RAGÚ Pasta Sauce; Paradiso Parade Floats, Charles Meier
National Trophy: “Simmered in Tradition” from RAGÚ Pasta Sauce; Paradiso Parade Floats, Charles Meier
International Trophy: “Return to the Beauty of Taiwan” from China Airlines; AES, John Ramirez
International Trophy: “Return to the Beauty of Taiwan” from China Airlines; AES, John Ramirez
International Trophy: “Return to the Beauty of Taiwan” from China Airlines; AES, John Ramirez
Grand Marshal's Trophy: “We Came, We Saw, We Covered” from Farmers Insurance; Phoenix Decorating Company, Michelle Lofthouse
Grand Marshal's Trophy: “We Came, We Saw, We Covered” from Farmers Insurance; Phoenix Decorating Company, Michelle Lofthouse
Grand Marshal's Trophy: “We Came, We Saw, We Covered” from Farmers Insurance; Phoenix Decorating Company, Michelle Lofthouse
Grand Marshal's Trophy: “We Came, We Saw, We Covered” from Farmers Insurance; Phoenix Decorating Company, Michelle Lofthouse
Director's Trophy honoring Jacob Maarse: “Prosperity in the Wild” from Western Asset Management Company; Phoenix Decorating Company, Michelle Lofthouse
Director's Trophy honoring Jacob Maarse: “Prosperity in the Wild” from Western Asset Management Company; Phoenix Decorating Company, Michelle Lofthouse
Director's Trophy honoring Jacob Maarse: “Prosperity in the Wild” from Western Asset Management Company; Phoenix Decorating Company, Michelle Lofthouse
Director's Trophy honoring Jacob Maarse: “Prosperity in the Wild” from Western Asset Management Company; Phoenix Decorating Company, Michelle Lofthouse

Powerful Medicine

AIDS Healthcare Foundation, Donate Life, 24 Hour Fitness, Union Bank and the American Heart Association Western States Affiliate, Northwestern Mutual (promoting children’s cancer research)

Lathrop K. Leishman Trophy: “To Honor & Remember Orlando” from AIDS Healthcare Foundation; Fiesta Parade Floats, Art Aguirre
Lathrop K. Leishman Trophy: “To Honor & Remember Orlando” from AIDS Healthcare Foundation; Fiesta Parade Floats, Art Aguirre
Lathrop K. Leishman Trophy: “To Honor & Remember Orlando” from AIDS Healthcare Foundation; Fiesta Parade Floats, Art Aguirre
Lathrop K. Leishman Trophy: “To Honor & Remember Orlando” from AIDS Healthcare Foundation; Fiesta Parade Floats, Art Aguirre
Lathrop K. Leishman Trophy: “To Honor & Remember Orlando” from AIDS Healthcare Foundation; Fiesta Parade Floats, Art Aguirre
49 doves were released twice in remembrance of each person killed in the Pulse club. Lathrop K. Leishman Trophy: “To Honor & Remember Orlando” from AIDS Healthcare Foundation; Fiesta Parade Floats, Art Aguirre
Theme Trophy: “Teammates in Life” from Donate Life; Paradiso Parade Floats, Charles Meier
Theme Trophy: “Teammates in Life” from Donate Life; Paradiso Parade Floats, Charles Meier
Theme Trophy: “Teammates in Life” from Donate Life; Paradiso Parade Floats, Charles Meier
Crown City Innovation Trophy: “Do More With Your 24” from 24 Hour Fitness; AES, John Ramirez
Note the way the colors splash like paint across the figures. Crown City Innovation Trophy: “Do More With Your 24” from 24 Hour Fitness; AES, John Ramirez
Crown City Innovation Trophy: “Do More With Your 24” from 24 Hour Fitness; AES, John Ramirez
Crown City Innovation Trophy: “Do More With Your 24” from 24 Hour Fitness; AES, John Ramirez
Crown City Innovation Trophy: “Do More With Your 24” from 24 Hour Fitness; AES, John Ramirez
Judge's Special Trophy: “Keep the Beat Alive” from Union Bank and the American Heart Association, Western States Affiliate; Phoenix Decorating Company, Michelle Lofthouse
Judge's Special Trophy: “Keep the Beat Alive” from Union Bank and the American Heart Association, Western States Affiliate; Phoenix Decorating Company, Michelle Lofthouse
Judge's Special Trophy: “Keep the Beat Alive” from Union Bank and the American Heart Association, Western States Affiliate; Phoenix Decorating Company, Michelle Lofthouse
Judge's Special Trophy: “Keep the Beat Alive” from Union Bank and the American Heart Association, Western States Affiliate; Phoenix Decorating Company, Michelle Lofthouse
Judge's Special Trophy: “Keep the Beat Alive” from Union Bank and the American Heart Association, Western States Affiliate; Phoenix Decorating Company, Michelle Lofthouse
Animation Trophy: “Waves of Hope” from Northwestern Mutual; Fiesta Parade Floats, Stanley Meyer
Animation Trophy: “Waves of Hope” from Northwestern Mutual; Fiesta Parade Floats, Stanley Meyer
Animation Trophy: “Waves of Hope” from Northwestern Mutual; Fiesta Parade Floats, Stanley Meyer

Community Projects

Downey Rose Float Assn., The UPS Store (promoting Toys for Tots), Rotary, American Armenian Rose Float Assn., La Cañada Flintridge Tournament of Roses, Sierra Madre Rose Float Assn. (video here), Torrance

Governor's Trophy: “The Gold Rush” from Downey Rose Float Association; Self-Built, Thom Neighbors
Governor's Trophy: “The Gold Rush” from Downey Rose Float Association; Self-Built, Thom Neighbors
Governor's Trophy: “The Gold Rush” from Downey Rose Float Association; Self-Built, Thom Neighbors
Princess’ Trophy: “Doing Good in the World” from Rotary Rose Parade Float Committee, Inc.; Phoenix Decorating Company, Michelle Lofthouse
Princess’ Trophy: “Doing Good in the World” from Rotary Rose Parade Float Committee, Inc.; Phoenix Decorating Company, Michelle Lofthouse
Past Presidents Trophy: “Field of Dreams!” from American Armenian Rose Float Association; Phoenix Decorating Company
Past Presidents Trophy: “Field of Dreams!” from American Armenian Rose Float Association; Phoenix Decorating Company
Past Presidents Trophy: “Field of Dreams!” from American Armenian Rose Float Association; Phoenix Decorating Company
Isabella Coleman Trophy: “Books Bring Us Together” from The UPS Store, Inc.; Paradiso Parade Floats, Charles Meier
Isabella Coleman Trophy: “Books Bring Us Together” from The UPS Store, Inc.; Paradiso Parade Floats, Charles Meier
Isabella Coleman Trophy: “Books Bring Us Together” from The UPS Store, Inc.; Paradiso Parade Floats, Charles Meier
Bob Hope Humor Trophy: “Backyard Rocketeer” from La Cañada Flintridge TOR; Self-Built, Renee' Hoss-Johnson & Brianne Johnson
Bob Hope Humor Trophy: “Backyard Rocketeer” from La Cañada Flintridge TOR; Self-Built, Renee' Hoss-Johnson & Brianne Johnson
Bob Hope Humor Trophy: “Backyard Rocketeer” from La Cañada Flintridge TOR; Self-Built, Renee' Hoss-Johnson & Brianne Johnson
Bob Hope Humor Trophy: “Backyard Rocketeer” from La Cañada Flintridge TOR; Self-Built, Renee' Hoss-Johnson & Brianne Johnson
Bob Hope Humor Trophy: “Backyard Rocketeer” from La Cañada Flintridge TOR; Self-Built, Renee' Hoss-Johnson & Brianne Johnson
Mayor's Trophy: “The Cat’s Away” from Sierra Madre Rose Float Assn.; Self-Built, Richard Burrow
Mayor's Trophy: “The Cat’s Away” from Sierra Madre Rose Float Assn.; Self-Built, Richard Burrow
Mayor's Trophy: “The Cat’s Away” from Sierra Madre Rose Float Assn.; Self-Built, Richard Burrow
Mayor's Trophy: “The Cat’s Away” from Sierra Madre Rose Float Assn.; Self-Built, Richard Burrow
Tournament Volunteers Trophy: “Be Your Own Knight” from Torrance Rose Float Association; Fiesta Parade Floats, Art Aguirre
Tournament Volunteers Trophy: “Be Your Own Knight” from Torrance Rose Float Association; Fiesta Parade Floats, Art Aguirre
Tournament Volunteers Trophy: “Be Your Own Knight” from Torrance Rose Float Association; Fiesta Parade Floats, Art Aguirre
Tournament Volunteers Trophy: “Be Your Own Knight” from Torrance Rose Float Association; Fiesta Parade Floats, Art Aguirre

Community Pride

Dedicated Folks

Burbank Tournament of Roses Assn., City of Hope, Occupational Therapy Association of California, National Hockey League, Kaiser Permanente, City of Alhambra, South Pasadena Tournament of Roses Assn.

Burbank Tournament of Roses Association “Home Tweet Home” Self Built
Burbank Tournament of Roses Association “Home Tweet Home” Self Built
Burbank Tournament of Roses Association “Home Tweet Home” Self Built
City of Hope “The Miracle of Science with Soul” Phoenix Decorating Company
City of Hope “The Miracle of Science with Soul” Phoenix Decorating Company
Occupational Therapy Association of California “Celebrating a Century of Occupational Therapy” Fiesta Parade Floats
Occupational Therapy Association of California “Celebrating a Century of Occupational Therapy” Fiesta Parade Floats
Occupational Therapy Association of California “Celebrating a Century of Occupational Therapy” Fiesta Parade Floats
Occupational Therapy Association of California “Celebrating a Century of Occupational Therapy” Fiesta Parade Floats
Occupational Therapy Association of California “Celebrating a Century of Occupational Therapy” Fiesta Parade Floats
National Hockey League, NHL “A Century of NHL Greatness” Phoenix Decorating Company
National Hockey League, NHL “A Century of NHL Greatness” Phoenix Decorating Company
National Hockey League, NHL “A Century of NHL Greatness” Phoenix Decorating Company
Kaiser Permanente “50 Years of Helping People Grow” Fiesta Parade Floats
Kaiser Permanente “50 Years of Helping People Grow” Fiesta Parade Floats
Kaiser Permanente “50 Years of Helping People Grow” Fiesta Parade Floats
Kaiser Permanente “50 Years of Helping People Grow” Fiesta Parade Floats
Kaiser Permanente “50 Years of Helping People Grow” Fiesta Parade Floats
City of Alhambra “No Call Too Small” Phoenix Decorating Company
City of Alhambra “No Call Too Small” Phoenix Decorating Company
City of Alhambra “No Call Too Small” Phoenix Decorating Company
South Pasadena Tournament of Roses Association “Never Give Up” Self Built
South Pasadena Tournament of Roses Association “Never Give Up” Self Built

Serving Others

Kiwanis International, Odd Fellows and Rebekahs, United Sikh Mission, Shriners Hospitals for Children, Lions Club International, Lutheran Laymen’s League

Just a few words about the Lutheran Laymen’s League float: The entry celebrates both the  quincentenary of the Protestant Reformation and the centenary of the LLL. Celebrations have occurred and are continuing all over the world. For Lutherans and Reformed churches, the Three Solas inscribed on the bells—scripture alone, faith alone, grace alone—are foundational doctrines.

Kiwanis International “Children’s Dreams, The World’s Potential” Phoenix Decorating Company
Kiwanis International “Children’s Dreams, The World’s Potential” Phoenix Decorating Company
Kiwanis International “Children’s Dreams, The World’s Potential” Phoenix Decorating Company
Odd Fellows and Rebekahs Rose Float “Through the Ages” Phoenix Decorating Company
Odd Fellows and Rebekahs Rose Float “Through the Ages” Phoenix Decorating Company
Odd Fellows and Rebekahs Rose Float “Through the Ages” Phoenix Decorating Company
United Sikh Mission “Together We Rise” Phoenix Decorating Company
United Sikh Mission “Together We Rise” Phoenix Decorating Company
United Sikh Mission “Together We Rise” Phoenix Decorating Company
United Sikh Mission “Together We Rise” Phoenix Decorating Company
Shriners Hospitals for Children “Anything Is Possible” Phoenix Decorating Company
Shriners Hospitals for Children “Anything Is Possible” Phoenix Decorating Company
Shriners Hospitals for Children “Anything Is Possible” Phoenix Decorating Company
Lions Club International “Celebrating 100 Years of Service” Phoenix Decorating Company
Lions Club International “Celebrating 100 Years of Service” Phoenix Decorating Company
Lions Club International “Celebrating 100 Years of Service” Phoenix Decorating Company
Lutheran Laymen’s League/Lutheran Hour Ministries “Celebrate Jesus” Phoenix
Lutheran Laymen’s League/Lutheran Hour Ministries “Celebrate Jesus” Phoenix
Lutheran Laymen’s League/Lutheran Hour Ministries “Celebrate Jesus” Phoenix
Lutheran Laymen’s League/Lutheran Hour Ministries “Celebrate Jesus” Phoenix. The Rose is Martin Luther’s seal.
Lutheran Laymen’s League/Lutheran Hour Ministries “Celebrate Jesus” Phoenix. The Rose is Martin Luther’s seal.

Tournament of Roses announces 2018 float judges: Carrión, Kaye, Sutton

On: By: LBM

María Eugenia Carrión, Bradley Kaye, and James Sutton will choose the 2018 Rose Parade float trophy winners

 

by Laura Berthold Monteros (from reports)

The three judges chosen by the Tournament of Roses to award trophies to floats in the 129th Rose Parade on Jan. 1, 2018 have impressive backgrounds in floral design, horticulture, floats, and pageantry, and they all fit the theme “Making a Difference.” The judges are María Eugenia Carrion, Bradley Kaye, and Jim Sutton.

They will award trophies to 24 of the 40-45 floats that participate in the parade using the updated award criteria for 2018, which include creative design, floral craftsmanship, artistic merit, computerized animation, thematic interpretation, floral and color presentation, and dramatic impact.

The 2018 Tournament of Roses President, Lance Tibbet said, “Being a horticultural professional, managing and owning a wholesale nursery, it’s an honor to welcome these professionals to the Tournament family. I’m excited to have these very talented members of the floral and design professions judge our floats this year.” He will announce the award-winning floats the morning of the parade on the front steps of Tournament House.

About the 2018 Rose Parade Float Judges

María Eugenia Carrión comes by her talent naturally. The daughter Continue reading “Tournament of Roses announces 2018 float judges: Carrión, Kaye, Sutton” →

WASP float honoring female WWII pilots wins National Trophy in 2014 Rose Parade

On: By: LBM
“Our Eyes Are on the Stars” was built by Fiesta Parade Floats for the 2014 parade to commemorate WASP service in WWII. It won the National Trophy. Eight WASP and 14 Air Force pilots accompanied the float.
“Our Eyes Are on the Stars” was built by Fiesta Parade Floats for the 2014 parade to commemorate WASP service in WWII. It won the National Trophy. Eight WASP and 14 Air Force pilots accompanied the float.

by Laura Berthold Monteros

NOTE: This is a reposting of an article that appeared on Examiner.com on Jan. 9, 2014. It is being reposted in honor of the women who rode the float, all of whom have now taken their final flights.

When the Wingtip to Wingtip float passed the stands, Rose Parade viewers spontaneously stood to honor the women who undergirded the Allied air supremacy in World War II.  “Our Eyes Are on the Stars” was built by Fiesta Parade Floats for the 2014 parade to commemorate the WASP (Women Airforce Service Pilots) units that were disbanded 70 years ago.  It won the National Trophy for Best Depiction of Life in the USA, Past, Present or Future.

Out of several thousand applicants, 1,102 were chosen to fly military aircraft all over the United States.  They ferried planes from builder to base, tested aircraft for the boys to fly in battle, and flew tow targets to train gunners.  The WASP flew 77 different types of American military planes, including AT-6, P-52 and B-29, more than 60 million miles. Thirty-eight gave their lives.

We were fortunate to interview three former WASP Continue reading “WASP float honoring female WWII pilots wins National Trophy in 2014 Rose Parade” →