The Rotary Rose Parade Float Committee float won the “Hope Connects the World” Tournament Volunteer Award for most outstanding floral presentation of the Rose Parade Theme among floats 35 feet and under in length
The theme of the float was “Hope Connects the World”. It showed how Rotary’s projects and its international membership bring hope, strength and service to the world. Through its relationship with organizations and non-Rotarians, they connect to make projects successful. This is exemplified by the Rotary connection with Optimist International. The President of Optimist International rode on the float with the Rotary International President. Hope springs from optimism and hope gives the willpower to press on in the face of adversity, with knowledge that when we work together, we have the power to succeed. The Penguin, adorned with a scarf displaying flags countries around the world, is embarking on a journey of -service, helped along by her flight crew. Together they showed how cooperation with organizations such as Optimists, increases the power of Rotary’s efforts—delivering Rotary’s message of Hope and showing how “Hope Connects the World.” Over 41,000 flowers cover Rotary’s 41st Rose Parade float.
The float was constructed by Phoenix Decorating Company.