Preparations Underway For Rose Parade In Pasadena

PASADENA (CBSLA.com) — Preparations were underway Monday for the annual New Year's Day Rose Parade in Pasadena.

CBS2's Greg Mills reports that workers were putting up security fences in front of businesses on Colorado Boulevard.

"The theme this year, really, is 'See Something, Say Something,'" Pasadena police Chief Phillip Sanchez said. "If you should see something that's suspicious, please alert a passing police officer."

Sanchez said they're specifically looking for backpacks or anything left unattended.

Sidewalk space to watch the parade can be staked out starting Tuesday at noon.

Some campers already rented space in a parking lot at the end of the parade route.

"I've always wanted to see the Rose Parade and the opportunity to do this, so here I am," Newhall resident Bret LeBlanc said.

Temecula resident Larry Merrill and his family are 10-year veterans of the parade. Merrill played drums in the Pasadena High School band and performed in the Rose Parade.

"It's the first and only time Pasadena High School is marching in its own parade. It's pretty cool. My wife was in the band, too," he said.