Community Corner
Stratford Woman Receives Grand Marshal Jacket from Stratford Man
Mary Ann Doonan received her green jacket and sash from Peter Carroll at the Half Way to St. Patrick's Day Party.
St. Patrick's Day may be six months away, but the group who produces the annual Greater Bridgeport St. Patrick's Day Parade have preparations already underway.
Mary Ann Doonan was given her green 2020 Grand Marshal jacket and silk sash by Peter F. Carroll at a Sunday ceremony. Both are Stratford residents. The parade to be held on Tuesday, March 17, 2020 in Downtown Bridgeport.
Doonan, who is retired from People's United Bank operations department, is longtime volunteer leader in the Irish community. Carroll, recently retired from IBEW Local 488 is the 2019 Grand Marshal and tradition follows that he present her with her new wardrobe. Doonan was recognized for her many years of community service including being the first female president of the Gaelic American Club, according to Carroll.
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Doonan will be featured at various events including a Scholarship Golf Tournament on October 1 at Mill River Country Club and a Shamrock Bingo at Vazzano's Four Seasons on November 7.
It takes about $75,000 annually to pay for the parade and fund its scholarship program according to the Parade Chairperson, John Brannelly Jr.
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"We seek businesses, individuals and organizations to help sponsor the parade at levels ranging from $10,000 to $1,000" Brannelly said.
Mary Ann has Doonan been married Peter Doonan for 55 years and together they raised their daughter and three sons in Stratford, instilling her Irish heritage in each of them. Now, 80 years old and a grandmother, she still volunteers for many groups and still inspires others to get involved, which is an important trait for a Grand Marshal.
The St. Patrick's Day Parade has been a Downtown Bridgeport tradition since 1983 and has been held in rain, sleet, snow, wind and sunshine. The original parade Committee was formed back in 1982 when Bridgeport Mayor Leonard S. Paoletta asked City Clerk Catherine C. Brannelly to organize a St. Patrick's Day Parade and Martin Reidy was the first Grand Marshal.
For more information about The Greater Bridgeport St Patrick's Day Parade, visit: http://stpatricksdaybridgeport.com/