SEASIDE HEIGHTS – The Ocean County Columbus Day Parade Committee is seeking their next grand marshal for its 31st annual parade and Italian festival to be held in from October 7-9 in Seaside Heights.
Long-time Parade Chairman Michael A. Blandina announced, “Grand Marshal nominees should be civic minded individuals who are of good character as they will be the symbolic leader of the weekend’s festivities as we celebrate our 31st year.”
Past Grand Marshals have included, Mulberry Street Italian Food Center owner Michael Colasurdo, former banking executive Nina Anuaria, former Superior Court Judge Peter Giovine, Stephen R. Leone, Kim Pascarella, Luigi Marciante, Joseph Leone Introna, Paul Barlo, Alan Floria, Michael A. Blandina, Judi Leone, Dennis Filippone and last year’s Nicki Ann Cordi. They are among other notable Ocean County figures.
“This selection process has always been very difficult because there are always a number of deserving nominees,” Blandina added. “The Selection Committee will work diligently to choose the right person to serve as Grand Marshal for this year’s Parade and Italian Festival and one that will represent the Parade Committee and Ocean County in an admirable manner.”
The deadline for nominations for Grand Marshal is March 25. Nominations must be submitted with a letter of recommendation and biography or resume to:
Ocean County Columbus Day Parade Committee
c/o Michael A. Blandina
249 Hawaii Drive
Brick, NJ 08723
“Every nomination that is submitted will be carefully considered by the Selection Committee and may be called upon with additional questions. I am confident that the search committee will once again select a deserving individual and someone who will be an exemplary representative of Italian Heritage and Culture,” Blandina said. The Grand Marshal selection will be announced in April. The Grand Marshal will be honored at the annual dinner dance.
Blandina said during “this dinner we will honor the Grand Marshal, and other worthy individuals, businesses or organizations.”
Anyone who is interested in becoming involved with the 2022 Ocean County Columbus Day Parade and Italian Festival, or joining the committee, should contact Blandina at 732-477-6507.
