Bay Ride showed its true colors during a fundraiser for its Memorial Day Parade last week.
On April 21, more than 100 people came out to Longbow Pub and Pantry on Third Avenue to raise money for the annual tradition, organized after parade committee members said the 2012 parade was in jeopardy due to a lack of sufficient funds.
The benefit, hosted by the Bay Ridge Democrats, raised $2,000 in less than three hours.
“People take initiative here to get things done,” said Justin Brannan, president of the political club. “What’s great is that most of the money came from small donations by people who really care.”
As if that wasn’t enough to put pride in your heart, when Arn Prince of the Martha Cardona Opera Theater sang the “National Anthem,” the whole bar had chills.
“It seemed that even those that may not have been there for the fundraiser were also enjoying the camaraderie,” said Brannan. “This is what Bay Ridge is about.”
Don’t worry if you missed out on this S.O.S mission: the next fundraiser will be held on May 1 at the Salty Dog in Bay Ridge.
Bay Ridge Memorial Day Parade benefit at Salty Dog [7509 Third Ave. between 75th and 76th streets in Bay Ridge, (718) 238-0030], May 1 at 2 pm. For info, visit www.saltydogbar.com. Donations can also be sent to the United War Veterans Memorial Day Parade, PO Box 09-0233, Brooklyn, NY 11209. For info, visit www.brooklynmemorialdayparade.com or call (917) 873-1508.
