Meet Jeff & Pam Sheldon: IVCBA Local Heroes Parade Lead Volunteers
June 10, 2024 | Julie Malkin-Manning
The title “Grand Poohbah” might sound whimsical, and it has its roots in Gilbert & Sullivan’s “The Mikado,” where it was used satirically to describe a person with a grand title but little real power. In the context of the IVCBA Local Heroes Parade, however, the Grand Poohbah plays a crucial role. It’s the person responsible for the parade logistics, and for our community, that person is Jeff Sheldon.
Jeff Sheldon, the IVCBA Local Heroes Parade Grand Poohbah, is far from a figurehead. He’s the driving force behind the float lineup, managing the parade staging, and overseeing day-of logistics. With 50-75 vehicles and walking groups to organize, his job is no small feat. Jeff does this all as a volunteer, assisted by his wife, Pam, who handles the creation and submission of the parade permit, including safety and road closure plans, to Washoe County every February.
Jeff’s expertise comes from experience well beyond the IVCBA Local Heroes Parade. Before moving to Incline Village, Jeff volunteered with the Rose Bowl Parade for 40 years. As part of the elite “White Suiters,” Jeff and his fellow volunteers were integral to the event’s success. He has some incredible stories from his time there, including tales of being a handler for Grand Marshalls like Mickey Mouse, soccer legend Pelé, and Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O’Connor. A fun fact he shared: all band members in the Rose Bowl Parade receive an In-N-Out burger post-parade, but those from competing schools’ teams get two!
When Jeff and Pam retired to Incline Village full-time in 2015, they quickly became involved in the local parade. Despite a pause due to COVID-19, Jeff was asked to revive the event in 2021, a challenge he embraced wholeheartedly. “I do it for the kid’s smiles.”
Thanks to Jeff and Pam, along with other dedicated volunteers, the IVCBA Local Heroes Parade is a beloved annual community celebration. Their hard work and dedication ensure that this vibrant event continues to bring joy and unity to Incline Village.
As you enjoy the spectacle and camaraderie of the IVCBA Parade, remember the Sheldons and their tireless efforts behind the scenes. They are local heroes, embodying the spirit of community and volunteerism that makes our parade possible.