This Saturday will mark the return of one of Rome’s largest events of the year. The Honor America Days Parade, put on by the local chamber of commerce, will return to the Copper City for the first time since 2019. It's got a special relevance for the Rome Chamber of Commerce president this year, who is approaching a major milestone. 

To say Bill Guglielmo enjoys helping local businesses would be an understatement.

“Shopping and recreation is very important to our community.” said Rome Area Chamber of Commerce President Bill Guglielmo.

Bill’s been the Rome Area Chamber of Commerce president since 1996 but he’s worked for the chamber for more than 49 years. His primary goal all along has been to help Rome businesses with events, newsletters, and promotions like “Shop Rome First.”

“Because of the sales taxes that are generated, you help local governments meet their obligations. The more shopping that is taking place in a given community, lessens the likelihood of property taxes increasing,” said Guglielmo.

Bill has seen it all since he started in 1973. In 1995 — the former Griffiss Air Force Base was closed by the government which sent thousands of families out of the Rome area. But, since then more than 70 companies have made the now Griffiss Business and Technology Park their home.

Those companies are attracting people to the city which is leading to the growth of even more small businesses.

“There’s some real serious economic activity. And, it is really true. So, that is really helping to keep Rome a strong economic engine that it is,” he said.

Rome Mayor Jacquie Izzo has worked with Bill in various capacities since the early 1980’s.

“I’ve worked with him for most of his 49 years. And, again, he’s just been a tremendous advocate for business in Rome, and building the organization, especially small businesses, he gets it,” said Izzo.

Rome is just a few days away from welcoming back it’s highly anticipated Honor America Days Parade which is hosted by the chamber. Because of the pandemic, the city hasn’t hosted the parade since 2019.  Bill and the chamber have been working hard to organize the event.

“It’s really going to be a great time for the community and thanks to the many sponsors who are all making it happen,” said Guglielmo.

It’s a sure bet you’ll find Bill on parade day with his hat welcoming back the people of Rome. Similar to the way he’s always welcomed new businesses that make Rome their home. While he approaches his 50th anniversary he’s not planning to stop any time soon.

“Take it as it comes,” Guglielmo said.

The Rome Honor America Days Parade typically attracts about 10,000 people. It will step off on North James Street near Rome Health at 10:00 a.m. this Saturday. It ends at the George and Liberty Street intersection. Later that night, the Symphoria Concert will take place at Fort Stanwix at 8 p.m., which will be followed by fireworks.