Future of Poway Days Parade in doubt

By Steve Dreyer

The Poway Days Parade, a 48-year civic tradition, will have reached the end of the line unless someone agrees soon to run it this year.

The position of parade chairman is vacant with Sabrina Butler’s recent decision to step down after four years. She says that none of her experienced committee members are willing to take over for her and that the Poway Chamber of Commerce has declined to participate.

Butler heads the Poway Community Association, which was formed in 2009 to run the parade after the Poway Chamber of Commerce withdrew staffing support and the City Council was considering ending the longtime tradition.

In Butler’s opinion, a parade chairman must be found soon if the planned Sept. 14 event is to happen.

For the past 48 years the parade has kicked off several weeks of Poway Days events. The parade draws about 100 entries, including local high school marching bands, floats, civic organizations and youth groups. Sponsorships are solicited to underwrite parade costs. Butler said that Walmart has pledged $5,000 for the 2013 parade.

City Councilman Jim Cunningham said that he thought he had a candidate lined up to chair the parade but that the individual decided not to assume the post.

For more information, contact Butler at powayparade@gmail.com.