BALTIMORE, MD (June 24, 2002) - The Baltimore St. Patrick Day Parade Committee announced today that William Donald Schaefer, Comptroller of Maryland, has accepted the position of Honorary Chairman of the 2003 Baltimore St. Patrick Parade.

The parade is in its 47th year and has become one of the areas largest attractions. “We are delighted that Comptroller Schaefer has accepted our invitation. This is a ringing endorsement of our efforts. With the Comptroller’s support we will be able to accelerate our efforts to promote the Parade as a major regional attraction that will benefit Baltimore City and Maryland,” commented David Keelan, parade general chairman. Mr. Keelan added, “The purpose of the parade is to honor Ireland’s patron Saint, and Irish culture and history. However, the parade is also an important economic asset to the area, generating over $1 million in economic activity, and provides great exposure to all organizations who participate.” Kevin Urick, parade committee member said, “This is consistent with the Comptroller’s long support of Baltimore City and events, like the parade, who work diligently to promote Baltimore City.” The parade committee also announced the establishment of “The William Donald Schaefer Community Service Award.” The purpose of the award is to recognize the contributions of Maryland’s community service organizations. “We envision cash awards to qualified 501c3 community service organizations that participate in the parade,” said Keelan. “To date we have pledges from a number of corporations, including Verizon Communications, who are providing grants to fund the awards.” About the Baltimore St.

Patrick Day Parade The Parade is a nonprofit endeavor organized and funded by St. Patrick Celebrations, Inc. The 47th annual parade will be held on Sunday, March 16, 2002. The parade is preceded by the O’Doul’s Shamrock 5K race, Maryland’s largest long distance event. The annual cost of the parade is funded wholly through the fundraising efforts of volunteers from the Irish organizations that comprise the parade committee.

Current community sponsors include, AllFirst Bank, FP Winner, and Guinness. About William Donald Schaefer William Donald Schaefer, elected November 1998 as the 32nd Comptroller of Maryland, has served in public office for 45 years at both the State and local level. He was Governor of Maryland, 1987 to 1995; Mayor of Baltimore City, 1971 to 1987; President of the Baltimore City Council, 1967 to 1971; and a member of the Baltimore City Council, 1955 to 1967. Comptroller Schaefer is a life-long Maryland resident, born in West Baltimore on November 2, 1921 to William Henry and Tululu Irene Schaefer. He was educated in Baltimore's public schools and graduated from Baltimore City College in 1939. Mr.