THE ROSE PARADE AND SHERIFF’S BOYS BAND

The 123^rd annual Rose Parade today in Pasadena, California brings multiple memories. I marched in that five and a half mile parade six times with the then-well-known Sheriff’s Boy’s Band. Played the Buesher 400 alto saxophone – the same sax I play (though not often) today. One Rose Parade, however, I lugged and beat a big bass drum. That likely explains what’s wrong with my back today. In addition, I’ve several times attended the Rose Parade. I love a parade! I think my daughter Debra may have attended the parade today.

It’s sad that some four hundred rag-tag “Occupy” protesters thought it appropriate to follow behind the parade on Colorado Blvd. I can’t imagine how they think such stuff can benefit their “cause,” if they even know what their cause is. Whatever, this is America, and freedom of speech and freedom of assembly is a good thing.

I’m amazed the 2012 parade is today Monday, the 2^nd of January – because New Year’s Day fell on Sunday. Doesn’t seem quite right (I’m a traditionalist). Whatever, I hope one day our State of Alaska can join with other states with a rose covered float in the parade.

Photos show me in Sheriff’s Boy’s Band with Katherine Hepburn during filming of “State of the Union,” the whole band with badges and patch, and little young me when I first joined the band. The insert shows some band members with famed Los Angeles County Sheriff Eugene Biscailuz, who was my Grandfather (Deputy Sheriff) John Lynn’s boss.

Sheriff’s Boy’s Band Director Colonel Vesey Walker, and my sax instructor, later became the first bandmaster of Disneyland in California. Last time I saw Col. Walker was when I was a teacher and I worked a summer job at the photo shop at Disneyland. His son Tommy Walker was my baton-twilling instructor. Also known as “Tommy the Toe,” he was the USC Drum Major who – when necessary – changed from band to football uniform to become a placekicking celebrity. He also composed the well-known USC trumpet charge "Da da da DUT da DUH"! Tommy later directed the opening and closing ceremonies for three World Olympic Games. Colonel Walker and Tommy Walker, like the Sheriff Boy’s band, were a big influence during my teens.