Emporia enjoyed the annual list of Saint Patrick’s Day activities Saturday.
With brilliant sunshine, the parade brought nearly 30 entries to downtown Emporia, while Town Royal served as the annual “bier garden” including activities for all ages, from beads and bagpipes to frosty beverages.
The Saint Patrick’s Committee still uses its activities to raise money, but the fundraising focus has shifted from years past. Committee member Barb Lowery says that was a good move.
Sponsorships now primarily fund scholarships at Emporia State University and Flint Hills Technical College, but Lowery says there could be an announcement later this spring on other beneficiaries.
This year’s fundraising total is pending, but the Saint Patrick’s Committee went into Saturday with almost $390,000 raised over 31 years to benefit different area organizations and non-profit groups that serve children, families, special needs residents and veterans.
Photos by Chuck Samples/KVOE News
