St. Pat’s parade is community affair

By C ori U rban

Special to The Republican

MEMBERS OF THE

Agawam St. Patrick’s Parade committee traditionally have prided themselves in building prize-winning floats. But this year the Agawam colleen and her court will be riding in a horse-drawn carriage.

“We will not be having a float this year. We lost our space to build one and are currently seeking a new space,” explained Douglas E. Reed, president of the contingent and this year’s parade marshal.

But other parts of the parade contingent will remain the same with invited participants including the mayor, city councilors,

Springfield

good in our community.”

The parade contingent will include elected officials, members of the police and fire departments, members of the John Boyle O’Reilly Club, students in the Claddagh School of Irish Dance and Black Rose Academy of Irish Dance, members of Elks Lodge 61, Springfield St. Patrick’s Day Parade committee members and award winners, Springfield colleens and the Springfield Kiltie Band.

This year’s award winners are parade marshal, Michael