Opinion 12-59

May 24, 2012

Dear Justice:

         This responds to your inquiry (12-59) asking whether you may serve as Master of Ceremonies for an annual community parade sponsored by a non profit organization. As Master of Ceremonies, you would introduce the parade participants, “banter” with the spectators, but would not be involved with any judging of the parade participants.

         It is ethically permissible to serve as Master of Ceremonies to the extent you indicate provided you do not engage in any fund raising activity or allow your name to be used in connection with any fund raising.

         Enclosed, for your convenience, are Opinions 04-144 and 96-148 which address this issue.

                                                Very truly yours,

George D. Marlow, Assoc. Justice

Appellate Division, First Dept. (Ret.)

Committee Chair

Encls.