2020 | Wearin’ of the Green 13
Now, at this point in the history of the
parade, the crowd size hovered around 90,000
people. It is more than double that now. Cane’s has
500 locations as of the end of 2019.
GRAND QUALIFICATIONS
When choosing a Grand Marshal, parade organizers typically
look toward a range of criteria: a commitment to our community
whether it be through business, philanthropy, public service or
faith, a deep connection to Baton Rouge, a connection to Ireland,
Todd checks a lot of those boxes.
Raising Cane’s donates to more than 2,000 schools and
universities annually through athletic programs, teacher
appreciation, student organizations and academics. The
banks and organizes food drives including “Raising Cans with
Raising Cane’s.” Inspired by the company’s namesake, Cane’s
works with more than 50 humane societies, sponsors pet-
friendly programs and invests in dog parks
across Louisiana.
“That’s the unique thing about Baton Rouge. It’s
full of a bunch of givers,” Todd said. “I like to be a part of
that. And that’s why I’m excited to be the Grand Marshal.”
WHAT TO EXPECT
The Graves family has ridden in the parade more than a dozen
times, but this year will be different. Todd plans to add his own
unique twist to the duties of a Grand Marshal.
“I want to make it a memory for me and everybody else,”
Todd said. “I want to make sure everyone remembers it being a
good time.”
Like the Grand Marshals of the previous 34 years, Todd, his
family and friends will lead the parade which rolls at 10 a.m.
from the corner of Hundred Oaks and South Acadian Thruway.
throws that’ll be unique to Cane’s and Todd. There are also
some surprises in the making.