Hot Springs, Ark. (KATV) — Hot Springs is sending two “muscular ambassadors” to Adamsville, Rhode Island, as part of a lighthearted dispute over the title of the World’s Shortest St. Patrick’s Day Parade.
The rivalry began last year when Steve Arrison, CEO of Visit Hot Springs, claimed that Adamsville’s 89-foot-long St. Patrick’s Day parade shouldn’t qualify for the title.
Arrison argued that since the Adamsville parade happens on March 16 — the day before St. Patrick’s Day — it shouldn’t count.
“The ‘Rogue Island’ parade isn’t even on St. Patrick’s Day,” Arrison said. “How can it be a St. Patrick’s Day Parade if it’s held a day early? They should call it ‘The World’s Shortest DAY BEFORE St. Patrick’s Day Parade.’”
Hot Springs’ parade is slightly longer at 98 feet, which Arrison says makes it the rightful holder of the title based on technicality.
To settle the debate, Hot Springs is sending two world champion arm wrestlers, Michael “The Monster” Todd and his wife Rebecca, to Adamsville for talks with city officials.
“Michael and Rebecca will help our friends in Adamsville understand how a calendar works,” Arrison joked.
“We’ve been talking with Chuck Kinnane and the Adamsville folks about this for a year now.”
If diplomacy fails, Michael’s arm-wrestling skills may come into play. “Michael was our parade king last year, and he’ll arm-wrestle Chuck Kinnane if we can’t settle this peacefully,” Arrison added.
Hot Springs’ annual parade will take place on March 17, featuring 30,000 spectators, colorful floats, and a performance by the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders.
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