Chamber Begins St. Patrick's Parade Planning

The held its monthly meeting on Monday evening at the Little Angels Center, discussing planning and fundraising efforts for the annual St. Patrick's Day Parade scheduled for Sunday, March 13.

For more than 20 years, the Bayport-Blue Point Chamber of Commerce has been organizing this event, which draws between 20,000 and 25,000 visitors. They are anticipating an even bigger crowd than last year.

"It brings people in from all around and definitely bolsters the walk in sales to our bars, restaurants and shops," said Tom Reid from ACG Printing and Design, co-chairman of the parade. "It also brings more exposure to our town, creates prestige and awareness for our community and instills pride in our residents."

The fundraising efforts for the parade were the main topics of discussion. The parade can cost anywhere from $30,000 to $35,000 to host and the Chamber works hard to offset the costs. Gold or Silver sponsorships are available on a first-come, first-serve basis.

"We usually have between 12 and 15 pipe bands, and they can cost $1,200 to $1,500 each," said Seth Needelman, past chamber president and owner of . "The advertising in the Irish Gazette is a major source of raising funds and helps to pay for most of the parade."

Chamber members help to sell and pickup advertising for the Irish Gazette. There is a 10 percent discount for ads booked by Jan. 26, but all ads must be received by Feb. 16. It will hit homes the week of March 5.

Another source of fundraising for the parade is the parade pins. This is the second year the Chamber has been selling the commemorative pins which feature the parade "mascot." Reid said the pins cost $20 each. They will be available for purchase at the St. Patrick's Day Parade Presentation Dinner, at the parade or in select local businesses.

Grand Marshals of this year's parade were announced as well. They are local residents Gail and Ed "Mickey" Reilly. The parade committee votes on who will be elected Grand Marshal, mainly based on their contributions to the community and popularity.

The St. Patrick's Day Parade Presentation Dinner will be held on Jan. 26 at 7 p.m. at the Pine Grove Inn in East Patchogue. The dinner honors the 2011 Grand Marshals and usually draws around 125 people. Seating is limited so reservations must be made by Jan. 14.