"We work hard each year to make the Columbus Day Parade and Italian Festival better than the year before. The 27th Annual Parade and Festival is on the way to become the best yet," stated Blandina. This is do to the hard work and dedication of our Committee. The Parade Committee consists of Band Chair Phyllis Shindle, Groups and Organization Co-Chairs Millie Aprea, & Isa Appignani, Antique Car Chair Luigi Luongo and Float Chair Hank Shindle.

"Many of your annual favorites will returning and we will welcome new organizations and groups for the first time this year," stated Blandina. "The Parade Committee is especially proud to bring new attractions each year from Italy, who are bringing a touch of the homeland to these events." This year we will have two groups coming for the first time, "La Citta’ di Agrigento" from Agrigento, Sicily Italy and the other is "La Tatarata" from Casteltermini, Sicily Italy.

We would like to invite anyone interested in his or her heritage and culture to join the Columbus Day Parade Committee. Civic minded individuals who might be able to assist as a volunteer are always welcome. Any organizations that wish to participate should contact the Parade Committee. Additionally, we are in need of sponsors for the bands, floats and entertainment participating in this year’s parade and Italian Festival. Any individual, business or professional who wishes to become a sponsor should contact Michael Blandina at 732-477-6507 by September 1, 2018.