It’s almost Rose Festival time, that’s what. And your intrepid team of Metroblogging reporters will be providing on-the-ground coverage, commentary, photos, and occasional snark over the next few weeks (what, you thought we’d be giving this the Chamber of Commerce treatment? Guess again…)

Sure, there are parts I love (the Junior Rose Parade) and parts I loathe – Pepsi Waterfront Village, anyone? (No, I will not be providing a first-hand report again this year. Sorry, kids – talk to the other parent.) But from talking to my fellow Metbloggers (who’ve all claimed their events, POVs or snarking points to talk about in the days to come), it’s clear we’ve got a broad range of perspectives to share when it comes to Portland’s pride and joy, and some favorite events we want to share with you.

But no matter where you may fall on the spectrum, there’s no escaping the hoopla. Or is there? Stay tuned – we’ll be offering up plenty of anti-Rose Festival alternatives as well.