NYC Grand Marshal To Ring Amex Opening Bell

By Hilary Beirne

The Grand Marshal of the 247th NYC St. Patrick's Day Parade, Tommy M. Smyth, has been invited by the American Stock Exchange, to ring its opening bell on Friday, March 14th.

The opening bell ringing ceremony is a long established tradition at the American Stock Exchange, dating back to 1921.

Over the years, they have hosted politicians, foreign dignitaries, business and cultural leaders, and celebrities from all walks of life.

This is the third consecutive year that the Grand Marshal of the NYC St. Patrick's Day Parade was invited to take part in this tradition.

Whenever asked about his selection as Grand Marshal, Tommy Smyth said, "It's like a dream. People say the American dream is no more. I disagree! I am living it!  I am living the American dream."

Tommy was equally exuberant when informed of the invitation to open the Amex. He still cannot believe that on March 17th he will lead the world's largest celebration of Irish faith and heritage up Fifth Avenue, and now he can add another achievement to his long list of achievements, the ringing of the opening bell at the American Stock Exchange.

Tommy Smyth will address the trading floor before ringing the bell to signal the start of trading.

Tommy will be celebrating this moment alongside his wife, Teresa, family members, friends, and members of the Parade Committee.