Reactions Mixed To Downsized St. Patrick's Day Parade

The St. Patrick Day's Parade along Fifth Avenue in Manhattan might be a wee bit short on the blarney tomorrow. Due to budget cuts, parade planners had to shave seven blocks from the route winding down one of New York's most recognizable thoroughfares in a ribbon of green, gold and Erin Go Bragh.

Here in northeast Queens, reaction to the downsized celebration varied among residents planning to celebrate the holiday.

"I can't say that I'm surprised by this, but it's disappointing ... Someone needs to bring some of the fun back to New York City," said Anthony Romana as he waited for the train into Manhattan Tuesday morning. 

The St. Patrick’s Day parade, which in the U.S. predates the signing of the Declaration of Independence, was first organized in 1766 by a group of Irish soldiers to honor the patron saint of Ireland, who as legend has it, drove out all of the Enchanted Isle’s snakes (and yet, left the British somehow).

Today it continues to be a favorite tradition among New Yorkers of all backgrounds. 

"I'm not even Irish, but I love Paddy's day," said Diane Lester, who looks forward to wearing green every year and celebrating after work alongside revelers of all faiths. "It's nice keeping these old traditions alive," she said.

However, in an effort to save money, the city this year made the decision to cut the parade route several blocks away from the American Irish Historical Society on 86th Street where it usually ends.

Regardless of the cutbacks, at least one local resident is predicting that this year's parade is going to be a "really good time."

"I can't wait to celebrate this year... I think we've all earned a little R&R," Lester said.

And then there was Geoffrey Alexander, a resident of Deepdale Gardens, who thought the city’s money could be spent in a multitude of less celebratory ways.

"I'm probably the wrong guy to ask... I'd be just as happy if the city didn't host any parades," Alexander said.