Posted on 01/01/2008 8:42:09 PM PST by BenLurkin
PASADENA, Calif. (AP) - New Mexico's Tournament of Roses float -- which came under some criticism for its UFO theme -- has won the parade's Grand Marshal's Trophy for excellence in creative concept and design.
The state's 55-foot long float is called "Passport to Our World and Beyond."
It featured three bigheaded green space aliens riding in open-air UFO, along with rockets, planets and a 24-foot conical tower.
The theme stems from the story of a supposed UFO crash in the desert near Roswell more than 60 years ago, in July 1947.
The military later said what crashed was a weather balloon -- but that didn't stop the tale from establishing a spot in science-fiction folklore.
http://www.coasttocoastam.com/timages/page/Rose_Aliens010108b.jpg
http://www.coasttocoastam.com/timages/page/Rose_Aliens010108c1.jpg
Mrs. F & I saw that one on TV; thought of yunz.
Does no one have a sense of humor any more?
Who rode on the float, Dennis Kucinich?
Well... I look at it this way.
The aliens on the float appear to be tourists.
The aliens at Roswell crashed and burned in a horrible accident.
The critics probably fear that this might discourage tourism.
Was Dennis Kook-sandwich on the float?
The float cost the state (i.e. taxpayers) $186,000 of which 40% was offset by contributions. This mornings ABQ Journal article says two of the network broadcasts had already wrapped up before the float came by. Also, a Journal poll last year had over 60 percent responding to a question as to whether the float design was appropriate for the parade with "you got to be joking."
For a few of us taxpayers, its just another example of frivolous spending.
Je nais comprehend Francais.
Je parlez “Ack-Ack”!
I love it!!!
And another beautiful day in Southern California...
Weather today will be about 71 degrees, mild on shore Pacific breeze, flowers blooming....
I hope the rest of the country enjoys watching the parade and the weather!!
****************HAPPY NEW YEAR****************************
THis year we have a Roadrunner Coyote float.
And since everything on a Rose Bowl Float must be made of something real, the 3 Space aliens were made of Green Cheese from the Moon!
Disclaimer: Opinions posted on Free Republic are those of the individual posters and do not necessarily represent the opinion of Free Republic or its management. All materials posted herein are protected by copyright law and the exemption for fair use of copyrighted works.