By ALEX MORSE Mayor of Holyoke If you’ve been fortunate enough to be in Holyoke on St. Patrick’s Day weekend, you already know that Holyoke celebrates this holiday unlike any other place in the world. For the past 62 years, Holyoke has played host to the second largest parade in the country, generating millions of dollars in economic development...
By ALEX MORSE
Mayor of Holyoke
If you’ve been fortunate enough to be in Holyoke on St. Patrick’s Day weekend, you already know that Holyoke celebrates this holiday unlike any other place in the world.
For the past 62 years, Holyoke has played host to the second largest parade in the country, generating millions of dollars in economic development revenue, and drawing crowds into the heart of our city. I highly doubt that the founding fathers of our parade could have ever anticipated that it would grow to such magnitude.
It is hard to believe that it has already been a year since I marched in my first parade as mayor of Holyoke. In only one year, my administration has made great strides in the areas of economic development, public safety, education, and civic pride. We’ve launched several new initiatives and incentives that have already catalyzed new growth – helping both retain existing businesses and attract new development.
In education, I have made early literacy a major priority. With help from the United Way, a Community Literacy office was created in City Hall, as we launched a campaign to increase third grade reading scores.
We have seen great success by increasing community policing strategies that have decreased crime statistics to a record low. By putting officers back on foot and bike patrol, launching a mobile community policing unit and new K-9 unit, 2012 was the first year in over 25 years that Holyoke was without a recorded homicide.
Just one year of success has provided national attention to our city, helping to attract innovative minds that want to be a part of what’s happening in Holyoke.
I would be remiss if I did not thank the many hardworking volunteers, St. Patrick’s Parade Committee members, and city employees who put countless hours into the planning of this weekend. Without their dedication and hard work year after year, this parade simply would not be possible.
Finally, I would like to thank you, and everyone who comes to our city for the parade festivities. It is because of your loyalty to Holyoke and your support that this parade has grown to such magnitude.
Whether it is your first time experiencing the St. Patrick’s Day Parade, or your 62nd year in attendance, enjoy yourselves! On this weekend in Holyoke, everyone is Irish.