New Rochelle Seeking Contributions for Community Events

Budget concerns forced the New Rochelle City Council to cut funding in 2012 for the Memorial Day Parade, the Thanksgiving Parade and the Fourth of July Fireworks.

To try to preserve these community traditions, the city has established a new Community Events Fund.

Mayor Noam Bramson said that during times of fiscal challenge, public-private partnerships can mean the difference between continuing community traditions and doing without them.

"We are grateful for the support of institutions and individuals who have already come forward, and invite others to join us in the weeks ahead," he said.

The cost for each parade is over $30,000—$10,000 for the event and $20,000 for police, fire and emergency services. The city said generous contributions have been pledged for both the Memorial Day and Thanksgiving parades. 

As a result, the Memorial Day Parade is fully funded and will take place as scheduled May 28 beginning at 10:30 a.m. with a brief ceremony at Memorial Plaza, followed immediately by the parade.

The Fourth of July Fireworks cost $75,000 and is currently not funded. If money isn't raised, the event will remain cancelled.

City officials said there are a variety of sponsorship levels for the remaining events, and no donation is too small. Checks can be made payable to "City of New Rochelle Parks and Recreation Gift Catalogue Fund" and sent to the Parks and Recreation Office, 515 North Ave., New Rochelle, NY 10801.

Donations can be earmarked for a specific event or for general use. For additional information, please contact the Parks and Recreation Department at 914-654-2087.