The Butte America Foundation Board of Directors has selected Ellen Crain, Director of the Butte-Silver Bow Public Archives, as the Grand Marshal of the 2017 St Patrick's Day Parade. Ellen was among more than 20 nominees who have shown great commitment and spirit for the city of Butte.

The Butte America Foundation is proud to honor Ellen Crain with this announcement, and received a statement from her saying, "I'm really honored that BAmF selected me, and it's always an honor to represent the Butte Irish community."

Parade Director Matt Boyle said, "I'm thrilled that Ellen has been chosen as BAmF's first Grand Marshal for Butte's St. Patrick's Day Parade. The hardest part about this was to come away with just one selection out of so many incredible nominations, and I'm proud of our group's choice for our first year at the helm."

The Butte America Foundation took over Butte's St Patrick's Day parade and the 4th of July parade after Butte Community Celebrations dissolved in early 2017. Matt Boyle and the Butte America Foundation have worked closely with Linda Redfern, former parade organizer, to ensure this year's celebrations will continue to bring quality and Butte spirit to these long standing traditions. So far, more than 35 organizations have entered the St Patrick's Day Parade with floats, marching units, and vehicles. The Butte America Foundation is hoping for a good turnout and expects another successful celebration of Butte's Irish heritage in this 81st year of the parade.