American Armenian Rose Parade Float Gala October 19th

PASADENA — On Sunday, October 19th, a milestone event marking the first American Armenian Rose Parade Float will take place at the world renowned Rose Bowl – Court of Champions in Pasadena, CA. Under the backdrop of the iconic Rose Bowl sign, this exclusive venue will provide an unforgettable evening for a “Gala Under the Stars.”

Jill Simonian, a television host and founder/blogger of the motivating and entertaining website TheFabMom.com, will be the emcee. Television audiences might recognize Jill as a recent Mom & Family Lifestyle Expert for Hallmark Channel’s Home and Family daytime show (2013-2014) as well as a host and entertainment news reporter on HLN/CNN’s Showbiz Tonight, KTLA-5’s Morning News, ReelzChannel and Travel Channel over the last 10 years. Southern California viewers may also recognize Jill from when she first launched her television career as part of KTLA-5’s Morning News Weather Contest in 2005 (thanks to local American Armenians, Jill won the Viewer’s Choice Award with over 11,000 viewer votes, before the days of social media). She’s been a longtime fan of the Rose Parade, and likes to joke that her two toddler daughters are future Rose Court Princesses. “I cannot tell you how thrilled I am to kick off this most historic moment for American Armenians. To have our most inspiring culture included within the Rose Parade’s indelible tradition, and shared on a worldwide stage, is absolutely incredible for all generations of American Armenians to celebrate, support and continue for years to come.”

With the theme of the 2015 Rose Parade, “Inspiring Stories,” the float will showcase the culture and contributions of the Armenian people to this great nation and the world. Phoenix Decorating Company, responsible for creating many of the annual Rose Parade floats, was contracted for this project. With their permission, Gala attendees will have the opportunity to view the float at the construction site during the cocktail hour. The float, titled “Cradle of Civilization” is a unique and stunning representation of our heritage.

Making the evening even more memorable, Americans of Armenian ancestry who played a part in the history of the Parade and Rose Bowl will be recognized. The event will begin at 5:00 p.m. with Wolfgang Puck providing the catering for the dinner. We encourage everyone to arrive on time to view the float. Donation is $200. For information and reservations please contact Flora (323) 681-8975 or Margaret (626) 798-4480, margaretmgr@gmail.com,