Clint Eastwood, former Mayor of Carmel-by-the-Sea and who many people think still is, was the Grand Marshal of the city's Centennial Parade today, riding in style on the Wells Fargo stagecoach.
Starting the event near the staging ground was local Myles Williams who sang "Misty" from "Play Misty for Me", Eastwood's 1971 film that was filmed here in town.
I really love this town. You would think that in a city where real estate prices start at $1 million (if you can find one) but is more in the $2+ million range and up), that the town has an "attitude".
Not so.
Although, for the first time, the City actually hired some outside talent to help with floats and such, it was still pure Carmel-by-the-Sea. In fact, most of the actual residents seemed to be in the parade itself. Whether marching for the Red Cross or the Women's Club (suffragettes with signs that included "No City Hall"), everyone was dressed in "period" outfits to match the theme.
Even Mayor Steve Dallas and council members were ferried in vintage cars, and had dug deep in attic trunks for early century clothes.
What did Clint Eastwood wear? Why, that well known western poncho and hat -- but no cigar.
Note: This is a photo I took while Clint was going by on the stagecoach--and focused in on his face. Yep, this my photo!!! Looks like a classic, doesn't it?
What a Parade:
The City expected about 10,000 spectators and they were probably not wrong. Lining Ocean Avenue on both sides from Mission Street to Monte Verde, spectators watched the parade go down Ocean Avenue, and double back on the other side. It then hooked a right on San Carlos and proceeded down to Sunset Center.
Spectators were pretty good about staying off Ocean Avenue, but by the time it reached San Carlos, many joined the parade in their Halloween customers including dogs in theirs.
When my friend Dominique (who had a press pass) and I got to Sunset Center, a long line had formed for the pre-purchased (and sold out) lunch.
For the rest of us, we had a blast listening to a fabulous Mariachi band
while munching on birthday cake provided free by the owner of Carmel Bakery, Little Napoli and Vesuvio restaurants. Thank you, Pepe.
It was such a great day to meet new people, including this gentleman in his Halloween outfit .
"I am Pi" and Hella Rothwell hanging out with the tiger.
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