The Sierra Madre Rose Float Association has decided to remove audio from its entry in the upcoming Rose Parade after facing significant backlash over its concept. The float, titled “Pancake Breakfast,” features a large fire truck modeled after Sierra Madre’s Fire Engine #41, with a firefighter spraying syrup onto a giant stack of pancakes. Critics described the audio of the firefighter calling for more syrup as “insensitive,” prompting the organization to act.
Officials from the Sierra Madre Rose Float Association clarified that the intention behind the float was to honor the teamwork of local firefighters rather than to make light of their serious work. In a statement from the Board of Directors, they expressed that the float aimed to celebrate community spirit through a whimsical portrayal of a pancake breakfast. The association emphasized, “Because the intent of this float is to bring joy and not distress, we have decided to remove the dialogue and music portion of the soundtrack.”
The float has been in development since March 2025 and was a collective decision by volunteers, with a design that won a group vote earlier this year. Volunteer Coordinator Hanna Jungbauer mentioned that the backlash stemmed from a misunderstanding of the float’s audio, which did not reference fire or burning, but focused solely on the humorous context of syrup application.
Despite the float’s aim to celebrate the local fire department, the response has been overwhelmingly critical. The community’s sensitivity stems from recent events, notably the devastating Eaton fire, which claimed 31 lives and destroyed thousands of structures. Sierra Madre itself experienced the impact of this tragedy, leading to heightened scrutiny of public displays related to firefighting.
The backlash has manifested in over 300 emails directed at the float committee, with local activist Shawna Dawson describing the float’s audio as “tone deaf.” Dawson articulated her concerns in local media, stating, “I spoke on behalf of the hundreds of people in our group who had shared their hurt and upset over the float.” Some comments on social media included threats, which necessitated a police presence at the float’s construction site.
Jungbauer expressed empathy towards the affected communities, noting her personal involvement in relief efforts following the fires. She invited those who remain critical of the float to engage with the volunteer team in person, asserting that the narrative presented in the media has not been entirely fair. “We want to be empathetic and sympathetic to our neighbors,” said Anne McKenzie, a lead florist for the float.
The community aspect of the float is paramount, as many volunteers, including residents of both Sierra Madre and Altadena, have connections to those who suffered losses during the fires. McKenzie pointed out that some past float princesses and volunteers themselves lost homes in the Eaton fire. She emphasized that the float was created out of love for the community, rather than malice.
The Tournament of Roses Association, which organizes the parade, acknowledged the integral role of community-built floats. CEO David Eads stated, “The Rose Parade is made possible by communities across the region who proudly share their creativity, traditions, and volunteer spirit.” Each participating organization is responsible for its float’s concept and design, reflecting local pride and dedication.
As the January 1, 2026, parade approaches, the focus for the Sierra Madre Rose Float Association will be on ensuring that its entry resonates positively with the community it aims to celebrate.
