Tammy Mendoza, an office assistant III in the City of Rock Island’s Public Works Department, has been selected as the grand marshal for the 41st annual Rock Island Labor Day Parade.
Ms. Mendoza, hired in 1976, is the second-longest serving employee in Rock Island’s history with 49 years of service. She was chosen recently as a Citizen of the Year in the Employee category and unanimously voted by the committee to serve as parade grand marshal.
Ms. Mendoza is set to retire this week. Her colleagues will celebrate her commitment to the city and her unwavering support for the Public Works Department. Over five decades, she has served hundreds of thousands of residents and customers and will be remembered for her patience, integrity and professionalism, the city said in a news release.
According to city leaders, Ms. Mendoza is known for going “above and beyond” with humility and heart. She has built a legacy of competence, reliability and caring service, reflecting “the very best of what public service can be.”
The parade steps off at 9:30 a.m., Monday, Sept. 1, at Washington Junior High School, located at the corner of 18th Avenue and 33rd Street. The route proceeds west on 18th Avenue, then south on 24th Street, and concludes at Rock Island High School. This year’s theme is “Rockin’ the Arts,” celebrating the creativity, talent and expression of the Rock Island community.
