1/26/03
Hi Ray,
Your call on Sunday brought back many memories from a time that was
filled with hope and excitement. I had tried to recall the incident
where we discussed Bobby Kennedys request for your band to greet
him at the airport, and to lead a parade in Rochester on his behalf.
There were a number of people present representing various aspects
of the New York State campaign discussing Bob Kennedys visit
to Rochester right after the California primary. Arrangements were
being name to television appearances, meetings with all the local
politicos, and most important to him, meeting with all the young volunteers
who had been working so hard on his behalf.
During the planning one of Bob Kennedys advance men brought
up the subject of a parade for the Senator. Several people had heard
how much Bob Kennedy enjoyed the Bishop Kearney Band. At that point
the advance man said that Bobby had requested to have the Bishop
Kearney Band lead any parade or to greet him at the airport if that
could be arranged. There was a short discussion about how much
the Senator enjoyed listening to the band perform.
Bob Kennedy was quoted as saying, Any band named after an Irish
Bishop can only bring us good luck in the primary. The next
step was to contact you to see if you could accommodate the request.
As you know history played out a different scenario after his victory
in the California primary. We lost Bob to a senseless killing that
night prior to his coming to Rochester. This was to have been his
next stop to a primary victory in New York State. From that awful
morning on, all preparations turned to dealing with an array of issues,
none of the pleasant.
There was brief moment about what could have been a great day for
Rochester and New York, as we were prepared to win the primary elections
and go on to what would have been an incredible election for the presidency.
I hope this helps you with your presentation. I cant remember
many of the details from the planning sessions since it was followed
by the events of the assassination. If you need more information let
me know.
Best of luck,
Luke Parisi
Former Democratic Chairman of Monroe County
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