Cingular Wireless Sweetens Orlando Citrus Parade By Securing American Idol Finalist Constantine Maroulis To Be Grand Marshal

Staying true to its “raising the bar” slogan, Cingular Wireless has secured American Idol 4 finalist Constantine Maroulis as the Grand Marshal for the 25th Annual Orlando Citrus Parade presented by Delta Air Lines to be held in downtown Orlando on Friday, Dec. 30. Cingular is the exclusive wireless sponsor for American Idol.

Maroulis, dubbed American Idol’s sexy, shaggy-haired rocker, was the sixth place finisher last season. Among his most popular performances on the show were chart toppers “I Think I Love You” and the classic “Bohemian Rhapsody.” The Boston Conservatory trained singer, who is now working on a solo album and an acting career, will perform in front of the VIP section along the 1.4 mile parade route.

“We’re excited to be able to bring a rising star like Constantine Maroulis to the 25th Annual Orlando Citrus Parade presented by Delta Air Lines,” said Dan Norman, vice president and general manager for Cingular’s North Florida market. “He was one of the most popular finalists on American Idol, and we believe his appearance will draw an even bigger crowd to what’s already an incredibly successful event.”

And just like on American Idol, this year parade viewers and spectators can text in a vote from their wireless phone for their favorite float. Normal charges will apply. The winner of the contest will be announced at a later date.

The 25th Annual Orlando Citrus Parade presented by Delta Air Lines, which is the kickoff parade to the Capital One Bowl, has grown to be one of the largest sports-affiliated parades in the nation. . It’s unique in that it features signature floats made entirely of fresh Florida citrus fruit. The parade, which kicks off at 11:00 a.m., will be televised nationwide.