"The Ocean County Columbus Day Parade and Italian Festival has grown into one of the most popular ethnic celebrations in the state, attracting thousands of tourists to Seaside Heights over the past 27 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 28th year."

Past Grand Marshals from the Parade’s first 27 years included, Mulberry Street Italian Food Center owner Michael Colasurdo, commercial developer Donato "Dan" D’Onfrio, banking executive 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, Judi Leone and last year’s Grand Marshal Dennis Filippone 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 March 18th. Nominations must 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 the search committee will once again select a deserving individual and someone who will be an exemplary representative of the residents of Ocean County." The Grand Marshal selection will be announced the first week in April. The person chosen to be Grand Marshal will be honored at our Annual Reception. At this reception we will honor the Grand Marshal and other worthy individuals or organizations.

Anyone who is interested in becoming involved with the 2019 Ocean County Columbus Day Parade and Italian Festival, or joining the committee, please contact Michael Blandina at 732-477-6507.