For more than 50 years, James May has stitched sequins and feathers into the costumes that strut down Broad Street every New Year’s Day.
Now the Delaware County designer is bringing that same Mummers flair to a different kind of celebration: America’s 250th birthday, Chris O’Connell reports for FOX 29 Philadelphia.
From his costume shop in Folcroft, May is selling a limited-edition America 250 “Liberty Beret,” a red, white, blue, and gold sequined hat that turns a patriotic milestone into a fundraiser for his own community.
Every dollar goes to Mummers Against Cancer, a nonprofit that supports Mummers and their families facing financial hardship because of cancer.
“They help with food, they help with medication, they even help with funerals,” said May. “So that money goes directly to that person.”
The cause has clearly struck a chord. According to FOX 29, 100 percent of the proceeds benefit Mummers Against Cancer, and the effort has already raised more than $8,000.
The Liberty Beret is available only through May’s costume shop on MacDade Boulevard, and customers can order one by calling the store.
May is no stranger to the spotlight. He also designed the Avalon String Band costume that Jason Kelce made famous during the Eagles‘ Super Bowl parade.
FOX 29 Philadelphia has the full story behind the beret’s design and details on how customers can order a Liberty Beret for themselves.
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