Connect with us

Entertainment

2021 Rockland County Saint Patrick’s Day Parade in Pearl River Postponed

Published

6 years ago

on

Statement from the Rockland County St. Patrick’s Day Parade Committee

It is with profound sadness that the Rockland County St. Patrick’s Day Parade Committee announces the decision to postpone the 58th Rockland County St. Patrick’s Day Parade to now be held on March 20, 2022 in light of current restrictions on social gatherings.

The decision to go a second year without our St. Patrick’s day parade was not easy. It means another year’s delay in celebrating our honorees, who are so deserving of public recognition for their contributions to our community. Sadly, this year would have been a time to remember the many people we have been lost to the insidious disease of the pandemic, including Rich Lenihan. Rich, a longtime member of AOH Division 3 in Pearl River, was to have been an Aide to the Grand Marshal in 2020, but never had the opportunity to march. We have lost many people in our community, and many with a particularly strong connection to this Parade. In their memory, we dedicate ourselves to “march again,” but must now take every precaution not to lose others.

We also realize that many of our already struggling small businesses could use the economic boost that hosting the second-largest St. Patrick’s Day Parade in the State of New York could bring them. We also know that the Parade day is one of gatherings of family and friends, and after this prolonged period of social isolation, we all feel the basic human need to reconnect.

We would like to take an opportunity to address one issue that was frequently raised last year as many asked, “why don’t you postpone?” Last year, many other parade committees, understandably thinking with their hearts, had stated they would postpone their parades only to cancel later when faced with the realities of the virus and logistics. Planning a parade is a multi-month process; the Parade committee begins planning the next year’s Parade the week after the current one. To plan effectively, we need a feasible date on which we could hold a parade; today we simply have no date that we could in good faith and confidence plan around.

We are all disappointed that our Parade and others are canceled this year. However, we should not let the numerous contributions made by countless Irish men and women and their descendants go unrecognized. We remind our state and local officials, the media, and particularly our schools that March is “Irish American Heritage Month,” proclaimed by U.S. Presidents of both parties since 1991. Our Presidents have called on “all Americans to celebrate the achievements of Irish Americans and their contributions to our Nation with appropriate ceremonies, activities, and programs.” Since the Irish American community has been asked to forego their traditional celebrations out of respect for the general welfare, we respectfully ask our elected and educational leaders to step up and answer the presidents call this year and ensure that the contributions of Commodore Barry, Mother Jones, and particularly all the Irish Americans who wear there green every day on their graves in service to America do not go unrecognized.

William Lee
Parade Chair

Related Topics:
Continue Reading
Advertisement

Entertainment

Lafayette Theatre Packs October With Movies, Halloween Events and Local Premiere

Published

3 weeks ago

on

September 26, 2026

By

October will be a busy month at the Lafayette Theatre, with the historic Suffern movie house offering a lineup that ranges from highly anticipated new films and local filmmaking to family Halloween favorites and cult classics.

And with tickets priced at $10 or less, the theater is making it possible for moviegoers to take in several of the month’s events without breaking the bank.

Among the highlights is the October 8 homecoming premiere of Concessions, a film shot at the Lafayette Theatre with the participation of local Rockland County extras. The premiere will feature a live question-and-answer session with the film’s director and cast. Additional screenings are planned for October 16–18.

The October schedule also includes Verity, based on Colleen Hoover’s bestselling novel and starring Anne Hathaway, Dakota Johnson and Josh Hartnett. The mystery-thriller centers on a writer who discovers a series of disturbing secrets while working on an unfinished manuscript.

Moviegoers can also see Digger, starring Tom Cruise, a film that has already attracted attention as awards season approaches.

Halloween will bring several special screenings to the Lafayette.

The Addams Family will screen October 31 and November 1, giving families a chance to celebrate the holiday with the famously creepy and kooky Addams clan.

Horror fans can also experience A Nightmare on Elm Street on the big screen. The 1984 classic helped establish Freddy Krueger as one of horror’s most recognizable villains.

For those looking for a more interactive Halloween experience, The Rocky Horror Picture Show returns October 31. Doors open at 8 p.m., with the film beginning at 9 p.m.

The Apoca-Lips Shadow Cast will return for the screening, featuring a preshow, audience participation and costumes. Prop bags will also be available.

With a combination of new releases, classic films, local talent and Halloween traditions, the October schedule offers something for movie fans of all ages — while continuing the Lafayette Theatre’s role as a gathering place for the local community.

Tickets are on sale now.

Continue Reading

Entertainment

In Plain Sight World Premiere at Penguin Rep Theatre | Sept. 25–Oct. 18, 2026

Published

3 weeks ago

on

September 25, 2026

By

Penguin Rep Theatre in Stony Point, New York, has announced the complete cast for the world premiere of In Plain Sight, a new play by acclaimed playwright Michael McKeever (Daniel’s Husband, Mr. Parker). Directed by Penguin founding Artistic Director Joe Brancato, the production runs September 25 through October 18, 2026, concluding Penguin Rep’s 2026 season.

The play follows Elliot and Alan, a couple preparing to marry after 11 years together, as buried secrets and difficult choices from the past threaten their future. The play explores love, identity, family, and the consequences of choices made long ago.

The cast includes Stephen Dexter, Remidy Dixon, Lana Gordon, Russell Saylor, and Derek Smith. Smith, a Tony nominee and winner of multiple theatre awards, previously collaborated with McKeever and Brancato on Mr. Parker.

McKeever’s plays have been produced throughout the United States, Canada, and Europe. His work Daniel’s Husband was first produced by Penguin Rep before transferring to New York City, as did Penguin productions of After and Mr. Parker.

Performances take place at Penguin Rep Theatre, 7 Crickettown Road, Stony Point, an intimate, air-conditioned converted barn with comfortable seating and free parking.

For ticket information visit https://www.penguinrep.org/ or call 845-786-2873.

Continue Reading

Trending