Brookside Bailout Sought For Fourth Of July Parade

A nine-decade old tradition in Mendham may come to a close if an influx of funds is not received.

According to Rosie Flood, the treasurer of the Brookside Fourth of July Parade, this year's celebratory festivities are $9,000 in the hole.

"Our parade is going on 90 plus years and has always been solely financed by the community," Flood said. "Over the years our donations have gone down but our crowds have grown bigger."

Compounding the problem this year is the coffers for the parade were already depleted by last year's Brookstock. Flood said last year's parade left them down $4,000.

"The total cost of the parade this year is $16,000," Flood said. "Which covers bands, clown balloonists, dunking booth, pony rides, moon bounce, printing, postage, tent rental, bingo and website design."

Flood said that while the cost of the parade has decreased from between $18-20k, that bands are still the biggest expense at $10,000.

While not pushing the panic button, Flood said there are concerns that this year's Brookside is Jersey Strong Parade could be the event finale.

"We believe that our community will continue to support the parade," Flood said. "But it is in danger of failing and this could be our last year."

Flood said the parade has its own website this year at  brooksideparade.org and for the first time so people can donate online through PayPal. 
Those who are inclined can also mail checks to:

Rosie Flood
12 Washington Valley Rd
Morristown, NJ 07960

The parade is scheduled to begin at 9 a.m. on Thursday.