Farmingdale parade marches on without state funding

While cash-strapped places such as Passaic canceled their Memorial Day parades, the show went on in Farmingdale with a community assist.
"[The parade] was not something that was on the table," Farmingdale Business Administrator Donna Phelps said of borough budget cuts and a lack of state funding. "It's too important. Look at all the people that have come out."
Organizers begged businesses to help. Several came to the rescue, including Doyle's Shop and Bag, which quadrupled its annual donation.
And while some groups like the Shriners charge to march in parades, the Howell Memorial Middle School band and others volunteered. About 75 groups took part in the event this year, compared to more than 100 last year.
Residents believe the can-do attitude is a testament to the people of Farmingdale. "I think it's of the utmost importance that people honor this and if they have to dig into their own pockets, that's what we need to do," said Steve Morlino, of Farmingdale.
The parade was held for $4,000, a fraction of which came from the municipal budget. The event usually costs about $6,000.