Norwegian American Parade Committee gears up for parade with fundraiser

To support the upcoming May 17 Parade – a Bay Ridge tradition now in its 64th year and a celebrated day for Norwegians everywhere – the Norwegian-American May 17th Parade Committee gathered folks together at Salty Dog Bar and Grill (7509 Third Avenue) to raise spirits and funds for the day that celebrates the signing of Norway’s constitution in 1814.

“We were very pleased with the turnout,” Arlene Rutuelo, co-chair of the parade committee, said of the Sunday, April 10 fundraiser. “Each year, we try to do it twofold, in the sense of celebrating the parade but also creating an atmosphere for the parade. It was full energy and lots of fun.”

The evening raised more than just a sense of awareness. Overall, the parade committee saw donations go over $5,000 – money, Rutuelo says, that comes straight from different community members, not only Norwegian residents.

The night also featured games, refreshments, raffles, door prizes and a 50/50.

“This year we tried to concentrate on people coming from outside the tristate area and from Norway for the parade in New York,” Rutuelo added. “We want to raise money for the parade but we want to get the community excited.”

This year’s parade will take place on Sunday, May 15. For more information, visit www.may17paradeny.com.

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