To the Editor:
On behalf of the St. Patrick Society, Quad Cities U.S.A., I wish to extend a heartfelt thanks to all of our volunteers and sponsors, participants and spectators, who enthusiastically celebrated the events of Grand Parade XXVIII weekend, March 15-16, 2013. Also, a special note of appreciation for all local newspaper, TV and radio coverage.
For 28 years, tens of thousands of spectators from throughout the Quad Cities, across the U.S.A., and indeed, from several foreign countries, have lined the streets of Rock Island, Ill., and Davenport to watch The Grand Parade, the world’s ONLY interstate parade and one of the top-ranked St. Patrick’s Day parades in the United States.
Whatever the weather, from snow and sleet in 1989 to 80-plus degree temps in 2012, the Grand Parade has made its annual trek. Again this year, despite much cooler temperatures, large crowds greeted the 80-plus entrants that marched in the parade. We are very grateful.
The Gathering of the Clan Luncheon and The Post Parade Bash were greatly enjoyed by those in attendance. We wish to thank the staff of the RiverCenter for hosting these very successful events that showcased Irish entertainment and performances by two Irish dance academies.
Also, a note of thanks to the cities of Rock Island and Davenport for their continued cooperation and support and to the Illinois Department of Transportation for use of the Centennial Bridge.
Special acknowledgement to the RDA and SCRA for their support of the St. Patrick Society for many years.
The St. Patrick Society looks forward to presenting Grand Parade XXIX on Saturday, March 15, 2014!
Slainte –
Joseph Dooley
St. Patrick Society
