The La Cañada Flintridge Tournament of Roses Association’s entry into the 2024 Pasadena Tournament of Roses Parade, “Flower Power,” was the winner of the Golden State Award for the most outstanding depiction of life in California.
This is a first-time win for LCFTRA, as well as a first-time win for a “self-built” entry.
In keeping with the spirit of the Rose Parade theme “Music as a Universal Language,” we selected an important era of Americana to highlight, which happens to coincide with our great state of California. We had all the pieces in place to represent and tick every box. Add in our trademark whimsy and humor and we achieved a new high watermark and milestone.
Our era-specific bus, with psychedelic adornment of color, extensive music playlist of the time, along the miniature version of our bus with live-action “GroupBees” were a huge hit and media favorites. We went outside the box, created magic and tied it all together with the parade theme. Magical symbiotic perfection on all fronts!
We can all be extremely proud of this major accomplishment. LCF brings a unique skillset to the table and works together as a well-timed Swiss watch is the real magic. This year we expanded our community outreach by opening our doors to youth and adults alike to come learn how we do it. We all became mentors as well as being the creative lifeblood that we are. There is a special thanks and proof that our commitment to success knows no boundaries. Our reach into young lives is a spark and a light for all newcomers. Our future is bright because of the light we give. A very special thanks to everyone for this.
As said many times before, it takes a village, and we have one heck of a village of Geppetto’s that tinker, toil, build, support and create wonder from nothing. Each build is nothing short of a monumental community achievement.
I personally thank you, La Cañada Flintridge, for being our village!
Happy New Year to all!
Ernest Koeppen
La Cañada Flintridge
First published in the January 11 print issue of the Outlook Valley Sun.
