Pictured, left to right, are Chicopee Parade Committee Award Recipients George Balakier, Billy Stetson, Kathy Sliwa, Kevin Culloo and Brady Procon.
Photo credit: Joel Rodowicz
CHICOPEE — With St. Patrick’s Day approaching before we know it, Chicopee Parade Committee President Kathy Sliwa announced multiple award recipients for the 2025 parade season on Dec. 3.
The awards included the parade marshal, Woods Award, Atkinson Award and Meera Award.
Billy Stetson, owner of the Rumbleseat Bar and Grill and past president of the Chicopee Parade Committee, will serve as parade marshal and will lead the Chicopee contingent in the Holyoke St. Patrick’s Parade on March 23, 2025.
George A. Balakier will receive the Woods Award, which recognizes a committee member for longtime, exemplary service.
Corridan Funeral Home will be recognized with the Atkinson Award, which recognizes a person or organization in the community that has supported the committee.
Kevin Culloo, owner and funeral director will accept the award for the organization.
The Meara Award is presented to an individual who has performed heroically to come to the aid of others.
Brady Procon, who in July intervened to prevent a tragic boating accident on Lake Winnipesaukee, will receive the award.
Award recipients will be formally recognized at the President’s Dinner on Feb. 1, 2025, at the Portuguese American Club on Exchange Street, Chicopee.
Tickets will go on sale after the new year.
Looking ahead to parade season, the committee also announced other dates to look out for.
Applications for the 2025 Colleen Contest will be available soon and posted on the committee’s website at www.chicopeespc.com.
March Money Madness cards are available for $10.00 each from any committee member. Other events being planned for early 2025 include the Colleen Contest and Coronation Ball, and Irish Night.
Readers can occasionally check the committee’s website and Facebook page for further details and ticket information.
The committee meets throughout the year, and new members are always welcome as well.
