Rotary Ventures into Organizing Annual Parade, Shrine Club as Grand Marshals

Rotary brings the flowery parade
Jessie Faulkner/The Times-Standard

Eureka's Old Town Rotary Club is once again leading the organization of the 2009 Rhododendron Festival Parade and have chosen the Redwood Shrine Club as this year's grand marshals.

The Shriners, known for their clowns, men in small brightly colored cars and eclectic bands, have been involved in the spring-time tradition since its inception in the 1960s.

”We'll be out in force,” Redwood Shrine Club President Richard Allen said.

The 43rd Annual Rhododendron Festival Parade will start rolling at 10 a.m. on Saturday, April 25. This year's theme is, “Making A Difference,” said Old Town Rotary Club President David Johnson.

The Old Town Rotary took its first venture into organizing the annual parade after the Eureka Chamber of Commerce announced it would no longer be able to organize the annual procession.

Applications to have an entry in the parade may be picked up at the Eureka Chamber of Commerce office, 2112 Broadway, Eureka. There is no entry fee, but applications need to be returned by April 14.

First District Assemblyman Wesley Chesbro, one of several who attended the Friday morning parade kick-off festivities

The annual event, which draws bands, cars, floats, horses and more, begins at 7th and F streets and continues through Henderson Center. Residents and visitors take over the sidewalks to get a close look at the procession.

”I don't think enough can be said about what a positive event this is for the community,” Bass said Friday.