"The Ocean County Columbus Day Parade and Italian Festival has grown into one of the most popular ethnic celebrations at the Jersey Shore, attracting thousands of tourists to Seaside Heights over the past 26 years," said Parade Chairman Michael A. Blandina. "Grand Marshal nominees should be civic minded individuals who are of good character as they will be the symbolic leader of the weekend’s festivities as we celebrate our 27th year."

Past Grand Marshals from the Parade’s first 26 years included, Mulberry Street Italian Food Center owner Michael Colasurdo, commercial developer Donato "Dan" D’Onfrio, Gary Lotano, Nina Anuaria, former Superior Court Judge Peter Giovine, Carol Camilli Wolfe, Stephen R. Leone, Kim Pascarella, Patrick L. Bottazzi, Luigi Marciante, Joseph Leone Introna, Paul Barlo, Alan Floria, Michael A. Blandina and last year’s Grand Marshal Judi Leone are among other notable Ocean County figures.

"This selection process has always been very difficult because there are always a number of deserving nominees," said Phyllis Shindle, Chairwoman of the Grand Marshal Search Committee. "The Selection Committee will work diligently to choose the right person to serve as Grand Marshal for this year’s Parade and Italian Festival and one that will represent the Parade Committee and Ocean County in an admirable manner."

The deadline for nominations for Grand Marshal is April 1st. Nominations should be submitted with a letter of recommendation and biography or resume to:

"Every nomination that is submitted will be carefully considered by the Selection Committee and may be called upon with additional questions," said Chairman Blandina. "I am confident that they will once again select a most deserving individual and someone who will be an exemplary representative of the residents of Ocean County." The Grand Marshal selection will be announced the second week in April. The person chosen to be Grand Marshal will be honored at the Annual Dinner Dance, which will be held on June 14th. At this dinner we will honor the Grand Marshal and other worthy individuals or organizations.

Anyone who is interested in becoming involved with the 2018 Ocean County Columbus Day Parade and Italian Festival, or joining the committee, please contact Michael Blandina at 732-477-6507.