109th Annual Pasadena
Tournament of Roses Parade
"National Trophy Award"

"Best depiction of life in the United States"

Our First Award Winning Entry!

PARTICIPANT: Optimist International
FLOAT THEME: Your Own Backyard
BUILDER: Phoenix Decorating (Scott Lamb. designer)

FLOAT DESCRIPTION: Concept, Intent, Design, Construction:

Height: 30'
Width: 17'
Length: 55'

The Optimist Club demonstrates that it doesn't necessarily require a lengthy journey to have fun - it can be found in "Your Own Backyard." All that's necessary is a little creativity and an optimistic outlook. A great treehouse, designed for split-level living with the "Penthouse" soaring; 30 feet above the ground, is the focus of playtime activities. Other youthful diversions include an old-fashioned tree swing, wishing well. a pond and small row boat. While a crudely-made sign out front points to the "Secret Hideaway", just up the path a second sign advises the uninvited of "Danger!"

The giant tree is covered with tree bark, palm fiber, mums and topped with roses and orchids. The tree houses are decorated with paperbark. farina and millet. The wishing well is covered with ming moss. cotton seed and onion seed. The boat is covered with Japanese seaweed and crushed walnut shells. The pond is decorated with white dendrobium orchids. blue iris, white stock and statice.

The upper treehouse is hydraulically operated to lift to 30' above the parade route, then fold down to fit under the 210 Freewav bridge. The swing moves to and fro and the wishing well crank rotates.

The driver of the Optimist float was Don Kopf - a Past President of the Pasadena Optimist Club, and an Honorary Director of the Tournament of Roses. Eddie Robinson, retired Grambling coach and Mrs. Eddie Robinson rode in the little rowboat at the front of the float. Kamon Parker, President of our Junior Optimist Octagon International (JOOI) clubs rode along with 12 other riders who are residents of Pasadena area Optimist Youth Homes.

Float Decorators included the "Petal Pushers" from the Lutheran Church along with members and family of Optimist Clubs from all over.

Meet our Float Decorators!

Go to Optimist International Page

Go to SCV Optimist Club Page