PITTSFIELD, Mass. — The Pittsfield Parade Committee has begun looking to raise funds to make next year's parade possible. 

 

"We have much to do as a committee to complete work on this year's parade, but we've accomplished our monetary goals to meet our budget which we intend to keep as creative as we intend it to be as you'll see," said Committee Chairman Pete Marchetti.  

 

The Committee requires more than $100,000 to put the show together with balloons, bands and professional consulting fees being the leading line items.  

 

According to Marchetti, "balloons, which includes helium, and bands which require shelter, are our most requested units." 

 

Other expenses include insurance, banners, the booklet, supplies, etc.

                

"We don't want to relinquish control from our all-volunteer committee to a municipal led organization," said Marchetti, adding, "if that were to happen, we'd be relinquishing creative control which comes from direct response to the public."  

 

Donations may be made through the website, pittsfieldparade.com, mailed to PO Box 1738 Pittsfield MA 01202. Donations of $25 or more will receive a free parade poster.  

 

The committee welcomes but must approve fund raising events.  Ideas are welcome. One may call the parade headquarters at 413-447-7763 with questions, ideas or concerns or attend the remaining meetings for this year's parade at the Polish Falcons on Belair Ave in Pittsfield at 7pm on 5/17 and 31; 6/7, 14 and 28.