Rockland County AOH Kicks Off St. Patrick’s Day Festivities

BY JANIE ROSMAN

Each year the Emerald Ball kicks off the St. Patrick’s Day season here in Rockland County. Last Saturday, Rockland’s Joint County Board of the Men’s and Ladies Ancient Order of the Hibernians held its Emerald Ball, the primary fundraiser and kickoff for the 53rd Annual Rockland County St. Patrick’s Day Parade.

More than 400 guests attended the event at the Pearl River Hilton honored those who distinguish themselves through actions and who personify the AOH motto of “Friendship, Unity & Christian Charity.” truly means.

Honorees for 2015 are:

• Hibernian of the Year Linda Sheridan
• Business Person of the Year Jenny Kirby, Characters Bar & Restaurant
• Grand Marshal Vincent D. Tyer III
• Aide to the Grand Marshall, NYC Brendan McNamara
• Parade Commander Teresa Hartey Adametz, Ret., NYPD

Attendees included Deputy Head of Mission at Consulate General of Ireland Anna McGillicuddy and Friends of Sinn Fein, Inc. President Jim Cullen. This is the 20th anniversary of Sinn Fein President Gerry Adams marching in the Pearl River St. Patrick’s Day Parade on March 22.

The day will begin with 9 a.m. mass at the Dominican Convent in Sparkill, followed by breakfast at the Pearl River Hilton, and the parade kickoff at 1:30 p.m.