The Seventh Annual Memorial Day Parade Fundraiser will occur on March 19 at 7 p.m. in the Somerville High School auditorium.

By Cathleen Twardzik

The Seventh Annual Memorial Day Parade Fundraiser will occur on March 19 at 7 p.m. in the Somerville High School auditorium.  

Each year, the fund raiser assists in the subsidy of the parade’s cost, said Frank Senesi, Director of Veterans’ Services. 

In the past several years, the event has raised “about $10,000, so that is what we’re hoping for – or to surpass that this year.” 

The parade “was started when Mayor Curtatone took office. It was a priority of the mayor to make the Memorial Day parade and other civic celebrations a big part of the community, and he wanted the Memorial Day parade to be ‘bigger and better than ever,’” said Senesi.

The fund raiser will include entertainment by the USO Metropolitan New York Performers, as well as Joey Voices, according to a press release. 

How were the USO Metropolitan New York Performers and Joey Voices chosen?   “Typically, it’s sort of random. The USO performers have been a part of our fund raisers and the annual Forth of July fireworks for several years, and they’re a crowd favorite.  Other than that, [because] I personally attend different shows in the area or receive feedback on performers, I work to have them as a part of our fund raiser and other events,” he said.
 
“The SHS marching band and many, many other local groups are involved in the parade every year.  We’ll make a list of parade participants — available later in the spring, as usual,” said Senesi. 

However, “There are not usually any tables or activities, because the performances are tremendous.”  Some refreshments may be served.

All proceeds will support the City’s Memorial Day parade, which is scheduled to take place on May 29.  

Fundraiser tickets are $20 per person. To purchase yours, contact the mayor’s office at (617) 625-6600 x2100 or Veterans’ Services (617) 625-6600 x4700.  For more information, contact Kathy Carey of Veterans’ Services.