Float will represent Oklahoma in Macy's Thanksgiving Day parade

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) _ Oklahoma will have a float in the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade each of the next three years, officials said. <br/><br/>The float, titled Oklahoma Rising, will celebrate the state's

Sunday, February 13th 2005, 2:16 pm

By: News On 6

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) _ Oklahoma will have a float in the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade each of the next three years, officials said.

The float, titled Oklahoma Rising, will celebrate the state's centennial and will debut Nov. 24 at the 2005 parade.

The concept and design for the float has not been finalized.

Blake Wade, executive director of the Oklahoma Centennial Commission, said he and other state representatives went to New York two years ago to start working on the project with Macy's parade officials.

``They have been extremely cordial and helpful,'' Wade said. ``It's been rewarding to see these plans come together.''

Macy's Parade officials said the centennial float will mark the first time an entire state has been represented on a float.

Gov. Brad Henry said he's excited about the opportunity for Oklahoma to be viewed at such a visible event.

``This parade is an American institution, beloved by millions for its spectacular floats and entertainment,'' Henry said in a statement. ``Kim and I, and certainly our children, will be excited to see Oklahoma participating in this prestigious and high-profile event.''