Local Politicians Praise Donations For Saving City Parades

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Knowing full well that everyone loves a parade, Mayor Nutter and US Congressman Bob Brady on Wednesday announced an infusion of private donations for the costs of the city's parades over the past two years.

The mayor in 2009 slashed funding for parades because of the recession and ensuing city budget crisis.  That didn't sit well with Congressman Brady and parade organizers, who promptly created a nonprofit to raise money for which the organizers are being billed.

That group, called the Greater Philadelphia Traditions Fund, delivered a check to Nutter for $200,000 to cover the expenses for the parades.

Congressman Brady said:

"Recognizing the fact that we're a city of neighborhoods, and neighborhoods need to show off.  And we want to continue to have our neighborhoods and our ethnics people and pride people and tradition people continue to show off."

Another installment of $100,000 in private donations is expected in January.

Reported by KYW City Hall Bureau Chief Mike Dunn.