The Big Parade!

Sunday, August 11, 1957

The day after West Covina American won Third Place in the California State Tournament, their accomplishment was feted with a parade and reception at the then-brand-new West Covina Plaza shopping center. Everybody and their sister was there! Without a doubt, it was the biggest public celebration in the history of the young city.

This was my most vivid memory of the days surrounding the tournament. I mean, how could any little boy forget seeing their very own dad riding on a fire engine in a parade? I even remember that we were standing opposite the Thrifty Drug Store when the team passed by.

Below right, my grandmother holds your cub reporter up so he can get a better look at the big news event!