GALENA, IL July, 2005 -- U.S. Bank’s third annual Parade of Homes, which will be held from 10:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 15 and Sunday, October 16, showcases more than a dozen custom-built, luxury homes alongside Galena’s glorious fall colors. Parade-goers can preview the area’s best builders, landscapers and interior designers while getting a glimpse of technology trends in new homes located in Galena, the Galena Territory and East Dubuque.

All ticket proceeds from the event benefit local nonprofit organizations, including Habitat for Humanity, Tyler's Justice Center for Children, Galena EMT's and United Churches of Galena Food Pantry. More than $20,000 has been raised for charity through past ticket sales.

B’Ann Dittmar, U.S. Bank Galena market president, said that the number of homes on the tour has nearly doubled since the Parade began. “It has become a must-see event for friends and families who love to take in “the best of the best” in Jo Daviess County, admiring the dazzling autumn leaves while gaining grand ideas for building, remodeling, or decorating their own homes.”

Dittmar added that U.S. Bank employees developed the event as a way to give back to the community. “We’re thrilled with how it has grown due to the enthusiasm of parade-goers who travel from near and far to see our community’s brightest builders and designers while helping us raise much-needed funds for local organizations. Our volunteers especially enjoy meeting those who qualify for our drawing of a $500 U.S. savings bond if they make it to all of the homes on the tour.”

Discounted parade tickets for $7 and free copies of the U.S. Bank Parade of Homes guides, including detailed maps, will be available starting October 1st, at each of the Galena and Dubuque U.S. Bank locations. All parade homes will be clearly marked, and tickets to the event can be purchased at the door for $10.00 for adults and $5.00 for children 12 and under.

For more information, visit www.galenaparadeofhomes.com or call (815) 777-0344 or (815) 777-3820.