The deadline to be a part of the 2010 Junior Orange Bowl events -- including the 61st Annual Parade -- is fast approaching and organizers say they are still looking for community groups to join in the yearly celebration.

``We are always looking for new, exciting community groups,'' said Junior Orange Bowl Administrative Director Mark Pidal. ``There is definitely something for everyone.''

This year's parade will take place at 6 p.m. Jan. 2 in Coral Gables. Leading the parade will be Clifford the Big Red Dog, as the grand marshal and So You Think You Can Dance winner Jeanine Mason as the honorary grand marshal. (Mason, of Pinecrest, is a recent graduate of Ransom Everglades School in Coconut Grove.)

Here are some key dates for other events surrounding the parade, including the essay contest and Royal Court selection:

• Applications to enter a group or organization into the parade is Saturday.

• The last preliminary auditions (for South West Miami) to be a part of the Royal Court will be held at 4 p.m. Sunday at Cocoplum Women's Club, 1375 Sunset Dr. You must register by Friday.

• The deadline for the Junior Orange Bowl essay contest for eighth-graders is Nov. 4. The topic is What Makes a Family? and length is up to 500 words.

• The deadline to take part in the Sports Ability Games, a three-day series of athletic events for children up to 18 with physical disabilities, is Nov. 24.

For all other events, applications and other information visit www.jrorangebowl.com or call 305-662-1210.

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