By Mark Stevens | january 20, 2016
Cave Creek represented well in the Fiesta Bowl Parade
If you have ever wondered what our little town of Cave Creek means to other residents in the Valley of Sun, one just need to ride along in the 45th annual Fiesta Bowl Parade past 100,000 people as the official float entry for the Town of Cave Creek.
Cave Creek was one of just a hand full of cities asked join in the pageantry of brilliantly colored floats, giant helium balloons, equestrian units, local celebrities and marching bands as we made our way along the two-mile parade route through central Phoenix.
Our float theme, “There is Gold in Them Thar Hills”. As Cave Creek was established in 1870 as a Cavalry Remount Station between Fort McDowell and Fort Whipple. The Cavalry was present to protect the gold and coal miners from attacks by Native Americans.
As our Old Miner wagon rolled along entire parade route we heard enthusiastic cheers for Cave Creek. A Harold’s banner hung on one side of the parade vehicle inciting shouts of “Go Steelers” as Harold’s is known for their Steelers fan base. On the other side flew a banner for The Buffalo Chip. From the crowd the question was asked, “are they going to rebuild?”, and our reply was “yes, they are.” This caused cheers and enthusiac thumbs up? We had cheers for Frontier Town and even for the Cave Creek Museum who supplied the historic minor’s rock breaker for our wagon.
As our wagon and 18 equestrian riders dressed as cowboys, Indians and a saloon girl or two rode by 3TV broadcast booth, Scott Pasmore showed his appreciation for Cave Creek by encouraging viewers “if you are visiting Arizona, you have to make a trip to Cave Creek.” And really, who can argue with that, right!
When you take the Cave Creek show on the road as we fortunate to do and you experience the tremendous sense of love and appreciation for out little western town from tens of thousands of people though out the valley, you know we have something special.
Our faithful parade team crew included Leslie Jensen, Jan Marrou, Molly Jo Coddens, Phip Jensen, Mark Stevens and especially John Klein who was our master craftsman. And thanks to Evelyn Johnson at the Cave Creek Museum for her support and props.
I believe Cave Creek imparts a sense of renewal, and that old pioneering spirit lingers in our local hangouts, shops and expertly preserved museum. And no doubt, the residents of our neighboring cities love Cave Creek for keeping that western spirit alive.
