Princesses and politicians march in annual parade

By Lori Bledsoe
The Alpine Sun

     ALPINE — The Alpine/Viejas Days Parade marched down Alpine Boulevard with resounding cheer and pride as much of Alpine watched floats, representatives, princesses and high school bands strut their stuff.
     The two-hour parade started promptly at 10 a.m. on Saturday morning to the sounds of sirens and cheers as fire trucks and patrol cars rolled by. Chuck Taylor and Jerry Turro reported the parade blow by blow on the local radio station, Lite 107.9 FM. They introduced each participant as they marched, walked or rode by with the help of Dana Zeno who happily interviewed anyone who would cooperate.
     This year’s parade was a huge success with the help of all the high school bands who participated. We had the pleasure of watching and hearing the talents of Steele Canyon, El Capitan, Granite Hills, El Cajon, and Mount Miguel. Each band was resplendent in formal uniforms, shining brass, banging drums, bandleaders, and flag teams.
     All of the princesses along with their courts were present in formal attire including Miss Alpine, Little Miss Alpine, Miss Kumeyaay Nation, and Little Miss Kumeyaay nation. Each crowned official, chauffeured in shiny designer vehicles by adoring drivers, waved royally to the crowds.
     Viejas and Golden Acorn made their appearance as well as so many of the local businesses in Alpine. The ladies from Head East rolled down the boulevard on a Mardi Gras themed float. The girl scouts were on their own float. The Al Bahr Shriners weaved in and around the parade in their little custom cars. The Winchester Widows made an appearance, as well as the Outlaws.
     The Coyotes from the Alpine Academy marched, followed by their fencing club who put on a swashbuckling show in their fencing gear. Ken King, who is running for the 52nd congressional seat marched along with his wife. Duncan Dwayne Hunter’s party also marched, headed by his wife Margaret.
     Thank you to all who participated and made this year’s annual Viejas Days Parade a success. This was truly a parade to remember.