NORTH BRUNSWICK — The annual Columbus Day Parade has been canceled in North Brunswick.
What would have been the 26th annual parade was voted down by the executive board of the Italian American Social Club [IASC] of North Brunswick, according to Martha Cresti, the president of the non-affiliated Italian Cultural Society of North Brunswick.
Vito Puleio, the president of the IASC, was not available by press time.
According to Cresti and Joann Lukanski, the vice president of the cultural society, the members are saddened by the cancellation because the parade “brought together our community to celebrate Italian heritage.” They are hoping that the IASC board reconsiders, and makes the parade even bigger and better.
“It was just lovely,” Cresti said. “We hope they make it enjoyable for future generations as well.”
The parade featured decorated floats of Christopher Columbus’ ships the Nina, the Pinta and the Santa Maria; an appearance by “Columbus” himself; Miss Columbus and her court; and Italian musical performances, among other festivities.
“It was part of our heritage and culture,” Cresti said on behalf of her organization.