Spotlight: Officer Michael Dolan struts in the New Year  

It was only Wednesday, and his excitement for all things Mummers was already beginning to show. For one member of the Nether Providence Police Department, the countdown to clowning around was on.  

“It’s the best day of the year,” said Patrolman Michael Dolan, who will be strutting with the Merry Makers in the 123rd Mummers Parade on New Year’s Day.  

Sunday will mark Dolan’s second appearance with the club, part of the Murray Comic division.  

Growing up in Ridley Park, Dolan said watching the Mummers parade on TV was a family tradition. 

When longtime friend and fellow Mummer Andrew Murphy mentioned an opening with the Merry Makers, Dolan was quick to join. His two siblings were already members of another comic brigade, he noted.  

Last year’s theme, “The Makers Have Their Irish Up,” was especially “cool” for Dolan’s big Philadelphia debut, being the proud Irish son of Michael and Janet McGrogan Dolan.  

This year, according to Dolan, the audience can look forward to a pleasantly ghoulish invasion as the Merry Makers take on a Hollywood classic: Ghostbusters.  

For Dolan, dressing up in full Mummers regalia - including an old pair of sneakers he spray-painted gold - is all part of the fun. 

Dolan has never been shy on the dance floor. As for the Broad Street stage, he admitted, “I love it.”  

As a Merry Maker, he takes his cues from the captain. 

Once the captain performs his solo skit for the judges, Dolan said fellow members just go wild, both entertaining and energizing the crowd.  

“It’s the New Year,” Dolan said. “It’s supposed to start off happy and fresh and joyful.”