Parade Fundraisers Hope For A Big Push In The Last Week

By Kaaren Valenta

There is little more than a week left, but organizers are optimistic that Newtown’s residents, businesses, and organizations will keep donations coming to assure the staging of the Labor Day Parade.

To take advantage of the challenge posted by the Newtown Lions Club last week, however, another $6,000 is needed. The Lions Club pledged $1 for each $2 donated beginning August 19 up to a total pledge of $4,000.

During the past week, $3,494 was collected, but the total included $1,400 in advertising revenue for the program. That leaves $2,094 in actual donations, which equates to a Lions pledge of $1,047.

Another $6,000 is needed for the organizers to receive the total Lions pledge.

“I am confident that the people of Newtown will come through and support the parade a little more so that the club will reach the $4,000 total pledge,” said Lions Club President Paul Arneth on Thursday. “But there are just 11 days left.”

A surge in donations over the past few weeks has made organizers optimistic that the Labor Day Parade will be coming down Main Street on September 6.

“Thanks to the excellent coverage [in The Bee] last week and earlier this month, the flow of donations has steadily increased,” said Brian Amey, parade committee treasurer. “As of August 18 we have received a total of $9,831.

“Private donations have ranged from $1 in cash to amounts over $100,” Mr Amey said. “It is a great response from the lovers of the parade, not only Newtown residents but also former residents who have read about our need on The Bee’s website.”

Mr Amey said the organizers have promises from local businesses, together with the Lions Club pledge, that would bring them close to their goal of not having to draw on the $14,000 reserve fund to pay for this year’s parade.

“Those reserves will be needed for the Tercentennial Parade next year, which will no doubt be more expensive than regular years,” he said.

In recent years, the parade has cost about $18,000 to stage.

Mr Amey promised that the parade will step off as usual at 10 am on Labor Day.

“The committee [members] have the arrangements well in hand, the program goes to print this week, the lineup has been set. Don’t Rain on Our Parade is our theme song!”