1st Annual Sock Out Cancer Parade

Records are made to be broken, and the 1st Annual Sock Out Cancer® parade set goals for future events to aim for.

“I am pleased to announce that the Sock Out Cancer Parade raised $4,000, which will be distributed equally to the Foundations of Lourdes Hospital and UHS for assisting their cancer patients who need help paying for non-medical needs such as food, housing and transportation,” said Security Mutual Life Chairman and CEO Bruce W. Boyea. “I had a wonderful time, and I am honored to have been the Grand Marshal of the event.” Each participant entering the parade received a pair of brightly colored Sock Out Cancer socks, symbolizing the fight against cancer in all its forms and helping raise public awareness of the financial challenges facing families fighting cancer.

“The Sock Out Cancer parade exceeded all expectations,” said CHOW Director Les Aylesworth, “and the non-perishable food donations from participants and spectators will provide around 900 meals for those in need in our community.” CHOW provides thousands of meals each year, and their resources have been strained to the limit as a result of the current COVID-19 pandemic. CHOW is operated by the Broome County Council of Churches. https://broomecouncil.net/chow/how-you-can-help/  

At 9.4 miles long, the 1st annual Sock Out Cancer parade became the longest parade on record in Broome County, eclipsing the 3-mile-long Ringling Brothers Barnum and Bailey Circus parade held in 1920.

Two months ago the Sock Out Cancer parade was just an idea in the mind of event organizer Bob Connelly as a way for the hundreds of area car lovers to safely get out while benefiting the community. “With so many car shows canceled,” said Connelly, “this was the best way I could think of to get rid of our cabin fever while still maintaining safe social distancing.” All participants wore masks when required and complied with local and state regulations.

“I believe that this should become an annual event here in Binghamton,” said Bruce W. Boyea, “and I believe that Sock Out Cancer parades can benefit communities across our country.” Discussions are underway to map the future of these ideas. 

A very special thanks to Bob Connelly; Ron Hills and WICZ-TV; Bobby Likis; Doug Mosher and WNBF AM 1290; Gary’s U-Pull-It; WBNG-TV; Rosanne Sall Advertising, Inc.; and the many volunteers who made this event possible.