Ocean County Searches for Columbus Day Grand Marshal

The search is on for the Grand Marshal of the 24th Annual Ocean County Columbus Day Parade... and it could be you!

Parade Committee Chair Mike Blandina says they have a few qualities they're hoping for in a successful candidate.

"What we're looking for is, as we do every year, a civic-minded individual of good moral character," Blandina said.

Previous Grand Marshals include Mulberry Street Italian Food Center owner Michael Colasurdo, commercial developer Donato "Dan" D'Onofrio, and former Superior Court Judge Peter Giovine, just to name a few.  Blandina says it's a real honor.

 

"In 50 years, you'll be only one of 50 people that have that recognition," Blandina said.  "That's why we take it so seriously."

Nominations are being accepted through April 1, 2015.  If you'd like to nominate someone to be this year's Grand Marshal, just send a letter of recommendation along with a biography or resume to:

Ocean County Columbus Day Parade Committee
c/o Michael A. Blandina
249 Hawaii Drive
Brick, NJ 08723

You can also call Mike with any questions at 732-477-6507, or check out the Ocean County Columbus Day Parade and Italian Festival website.  This year's event runs October 9-11, 2015.