The design, called “America’s Pride,” would carry 10 community members who exemplify public service, perhaps including a police officer, a firefighter, a doctor, a teacher and students aspiring to serve in those positions, he said.
The passengers, standing in the outdoor scene under the wings of an iconic eagle, would send a message to viewers nationwide, he said.
“It draws attention to our parks, our [recreation] and the quality of people that we bring up here,” Ackerman said of the tribute to the city’s outdoor environment and public service.
Although commissioners approved the design, 5 to 0, officials were surprised by the float, which appeared “generic” to some and did not stand out as Glendale-specific, especially when compared to the 2008 and 2009 submissions.
The previous floats, particularly the Alex Theatre replica, were obvious sources of pride for residents, while the proposed 2010 design may not immediately evoke the same emotions, Commissioner Rodney Khan said.
“I thought that that was just outstanding because it really related to Glendale, and I could look at that and I could identify with it,” Khan said of the 2009 float.
“This is beautiful, and I’m just trying to see how we came up with it.”
Other commissioners shared those concerns.
“I had the same reaction as Commissioner Khan,” Commissioner Dottie Sharkey said. “I didn’t see Glendale in it.”
Commissioners warmed to the proposal after hearing an explanation about the concept’s promotion of public service and open space, although they still wondered where the idea originated.
