Roselle Rose parade this weekend
The 48th Annual Rose Parade steps off at 2 p.m. Sunday, bringing dozens of people and entertainers to thousands of spectators. Daily Herald Staff Writer Anne Halston asked Gail Croson, executive director of the Roselle Chamber of Commerce and Industry, to tell us about the event.
Q. When is it?
A. Step off is at 2 p.m. Sunday.
Q. Who are the sponsors?
A. Roselle Chamber of Commerce & Industry and Village of Roselle.
The Rose Parade is a wonderful example of what can happen when government, business and community work together. Through the support of the Roselle village trustees and various departments, including administration, police, fire and Public Works, the Roselle Chamber of Commerce & Industry organizes the parade with the help of volunteers from the business community.
The Rose Parade continues to be a popular community event led by Jay P. Mueller, DDS. Jay has chaired the chamber's Parade Committee for more than 20 years and is to be commended for a job well done.
Q. What's the theme?
A. Celebrating Community Spirit.
Q. What is the route?
A. Starts at Devon Avenue and Roselle Road, south on Roselle Road, east on Thorndale, south on Prospect, east on Irving Park, ending on Lawrence.
Q. How many units will be marching?
A. 100 entries.
Q. Can you list them?
A. The Rose Parade features a variety of entries sure to entertain adults and children, including professional floats, marching bands, color guards, beauty pageant winners, dancers, racing cars, fire trucks and police vehicles, specialty entries and, of course, many walkers passing out candy for the children.
Q. How long do you think it will go?
A. The Rose Parade is just over a mile long, approximately one hour in length.
Q. What's the annual favorite?
A. This year's Parade Grand Marshall is Joe Kean of Friendly Ford, 2007 Business Person of the Year, representing the Roselle Chamber of Commerce. Also featuring this year's Rose Queen Stephanie Reninger and her court.
Q. Is there a number to call for more information?
A. Roselle Chamber of Commerce & Industry, (630) 894-3010.
Q. Is there an e-mail address to write for more details?