2019 Passing of the Sash Ceremony

This afternoon we officially kicked off 2019 St. Patrick's Day celebrations with the annual Passing of the Sash Ceremony.  This year's ceremony was held at Fulton's Gate Pub, and was attended by several local dignitaries such as Senator Monica Martinez, Suffolk County Legislator Rob Calarco, and Councilman Neil Foley. The honor and sash of the St. Patrick's Day Grand Marshal was passed from the 2018 Grand Marshal, David Kennedy to Paula Murphy, who was named this year's Grand Marshal.  Marshals from past years formed the procession leading up to the official hand off. Paula is the Chair of The Greater Patchogue Chamber of Commerce's Beautification Committee, among many other community endeavors. To learn about the many amazing projects Paula has been involved with, click here. As in past years, Irish Folk band, Bangers and Mash played original tunes and traditional music throughout the event.  Based in Suffolk County the bands full-time line-up includes Liam Hudock on lead vocals, Carole Lesselbaum on lead vocals and Bodhran, Chad Herth on electric lead guitar, Seth Lesselbaum on bass, and Seth Salwen on drums. They are well known throughout the Northeast and are now regularly touring areas of Florida and the Midwest. This year there were 9 local restaurants participating in the Annual Irish Soda Bread Contest, including Tap Room, Public House, Tomorrow's Pub, Swan Bakery, and more. Here are some of the highlights from this afternoons event.