Passing of the Shillelagh

Originally used to solve disputes in old days...The Irish shillelagh dates back to the 19th century. Tonight the shillelagh was passed on to this year's Grand Marshal.

                2012 Grand Marshal Patrick Costello says, "You know the Shillelagh had a proud place in my home, in my living room for the past year and I'm sure Russ will find a proud place and next year he will pass it on to some worthy person."

                2013 Grand Marshal Russell Brooks says, "You know Pat was very deserving they couldn't have picked a better person last year and I hope I can kind of come close to living up to his standards."

                Come Saturday Fire Chief Russ Brooks will wear the cap of Grand Marshal and lead the parade past thousands of on lookers, but the Grand Marshal says he's too excited to be worried.

                Brooks says, "There's nothing to be nervous about. I think I can make it walking a straight line down Genesee Street. If I fall or something that would be embarrassing but other than that I'm having a great time."

            Now that the shillelagh has been passed on, the former grand marshal says he can just enjoy being Irish this weekend.

                Costello says, "You know the pressure's kind of off. Parade day is a great day; a family day, my family gets together and a lot of families get together. We can have a nice meal, corned beef and cabbage and it's a great day, just look forward to a peaceful day."