District 5495 will enter its first-ever float in this year’s Fiesta Bowl Parade and clubs and Rotarians throughout the district are encouraged to support the effort through financial contributions and volunteer efforts. The parade takes place 10 a.m. Dec. 17 in downtown Phoenix. District 5495’s float provides tremendous exposure and gives the district a great opportunity to promote Rotary clubs in Arizona. District Governor Larry Horton will ride the float, accompanied by Rotarians whose clubs provide financial support for the project. Brian Garcia-Larson of the Rotary Club of Chandler is overseeing the district’s involvement. The cost to have a float in the parade is $10,000 and Brian is looking for clubs to provide direct financial support through a donation, as well as purchasing a special “Imagine Rotary” T-shirt made for the parade. “Our goal is to have as many clubs involved as possible,” said Brian. “There is one price which includes one member participating in the parade. We are looking for a $500 donation for that, and if there are any additional Rotarians that want to participate in the parade, we will take a $100 donation for them. “In short, we are looking for as many clubs as possible to participate in the parade, and your club's T-shirt order. T-shirts are this year's ‘Imagine Rotary’ shirts that we can all wear for the parade and any events we are working at to show unity.” Rotarians can also help with float decorating. “We would love to have your help. There will be no cost to members who want to help with the float, and they can walk in the parade if they choose,” adds Brian. The parade is a televised event and will have over 100,000 viewers. Clubs that have committed to support the float so far: Bullhead City, Chandler, Gilbert/Queen Creek and Peoria North. Sun Lakes, Scottsdale, and Chandler clubs have committed to purchasing T-shirts. “I hope this is helpful and easier financially for our clubs to work together. This will be the first of many parades we will do together. My hope is to have this wrapped up in the next few weeks, so we know who wants to be a part of the parade and get shirts printed for your clubs,” said Brian. Fiesta Bowl Charities focuses on children’s programs, teachers, and disabled vets throughout the state of Arizona. The budget is $3.4 million this year to give back to our communities. Of that amount, $1 million goes directly to the classroom in the form of teacher grants. For additional information, contact Brian Garcia-Larson at 602-509-2122. | 