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Published by Jerry G. Sweeton Jr.

2006 Parade

For exclusive parade coverage tune to RI Interconnect Channel 15 at 10AM October 9th.  For all other Autumnfest coverage stay tuned to Channel 15 the RI State-Wide Interconnect Station.

Everybody loves a Parade and we have one of the best! 

The grand marshal of the 2006 Autumnfest parade will be Gary McLaughlin of Woonsocket.  Described as the man who works 7 days a week, McLaughlin has developed a reputation of being a hard worker who uses his business to help others by donating services and food.  Either directly or indirectly, McLaughlin has helped the Milk Fund, Kiwanis Club, Mardi Gras, St. Ann’s Arts and Cultural Center, RSVP, Stadium Theatre, Woonsocket Rotary Club, Autumnfest and countless other unnamed charities.  Rachel Arruda, Chair of the Autumnfest parade described McLaughlin as a “dedicated man whose generosity knows no boundaries.” 

    McLaughlin, son of  Margret and the late Vernon McLaughlin, was born in Woonsocket in 1960 and developed an an early interest in the food services industry by taking a job as bus boy at the former Howard Johnson’s Restaurant at Park Square. Gary’s father was the chef at “HJ” as it was known to locals and “flamed” Gary’s interest in cooking. He was working full time in the kitchen by 18. In 1979 he graduated from Woonsocket High School, the same class that graduated well known locals Rene Lafayette and policeman Luke Gallant.

    From 1980 to 1990, McLaughlin sharpened his skills by working at State Line Restaurant on Route 44, Bijou’s and Ye Olde English Fish and Chips. He also took courses in cuisine at Johnson and Wales University.

    In 1991, McLaughlin purchased Deli Encounters from Moe and Diane Barris and his career in business ownership was underway.

    The banking crisis in early 1991 created a slow business climate, so McLaughlin branched out in catering to create extra income and both businesses still operate today. McLaughlin gives credit to his twin sister Karen for keeping the ship afloat. Pointing to her unselfish dedication to the deli and catering business, he describes her “as one of a kind.”

    McLaughlin appreciates the friendship and direction of Gordon Robinson, owner of Ye Olde English Fish and Chips as “an organized, honest and good man.” McLaughlin also credits David Lumham, head chef at Brian’s Restaurant in Northbridge and Brian Sany owner of Brian’s as two role models on how to treat employees and give back to the community. When asked where his sense of charity came from, McLaughlin quickly credited his parents Vernon and Margret.

    McLaughlin says he loves being creative in the kitchen, though he enjoys the simple taste of an egg sandwich with bacon and cheese. McLaughlin stills operates the deli and catering service, but in his “spare time” works at the Whitinsville Country Club, Brian’s and Ye Olde English Fish and Chips.

    On being named grand Marshall, McLaughlin says he is humbled beyond words and looks forward to being in the line of March in the Autumnfest Parade on October 9^th. He finished his remarks by saying “charity begins at home...in your community. The more you give, the more you get back in blessings and good friends.” 

The 2006 Autumnfest Parade Committee has been meeting regularly at the home of Parade Chairman, Rachael Arruda to plan the 27th annual event.  The parade will be held on Monday morning, October 9, 2006 at 9:30am from the Diamond Hill Plaza in Woonsocket.

Committee members include,

• Joe Martin, Parade Float Chair

• Andre Cote, Float Assistant

• Nancy Bouchard, Special Events Chair

• Sue Vadenais, working division marshal

• John Powell, Assistant

• Gerry Bissonnette, Volunteer.

Anyone interested in having a float in the parade can call Rachael Arruda at 401-769-5056 or download this form.  For more information for participate in the parade, call contact Nancy Bouchard at 401-769-5090.

   SPECIAL EVENTS ENTRY FORM

BAND ENTRY FORM    FLOAT ENTRY FORM

Autumnfest 2006 Parade Float Judges have been announced.  This year's judges are:

• Owen Bebeau - Woonsocket Personnel Director

• Chris Bouley - President, Stadium Theatre Foundation

• Leo Fontaine - Woonsocket City Council President

• Marlene Gagnon - Owner, Harlequin Costumes

• Cathy Levesque-Gilbert - Marketing Director, Stadium Theatre Foundation

2006 Parade Band Line Up

The Autumnfest Parade Committee currently has 16 marching bands and 7 floats scheduled to appear, including:

Organizations scheduled to present floats

The Autumnfest Parade Committee is currently working hard to finalize the parade list.  Stay tuned!

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