[Editor’s Note: Peekskill Herald’s “10 Questions” series uses a conversational, personal approach to familiarize readers with influencers in our community’s public and private sectors.]
What is your job description as Grand Marshal of the city’s St. Patrick’s Parade?
Leading the parade is first and foremost, but there are additional duties. Other parade activities are the Installation Reception, breakfast with representatives of our sister city [Castlebar], the Irish Flag Raising, and the Mass. Most important is inspiring and encouraging all the parade participants and highlighting the culture and traditions of the Irish people.
What is the process for choosing each year’s Grand Marshal?
Having never served on the Parade Committee I had to ask the very capable Parade Chair Sue Sheridan. The committee holds a nominating meeting and names are put forward, then placed on a ballot circulated to the entire committee and to former Grand Marshals, who vote at a meeting or online (early voting is everywhere these days). Nominees must be of solid character and have served our community in some way. Sitting elected officials are ineligible.
How many years have you been marching in the parade?
Started in 1991, when I was on the Cortlandt Town Board, Patrick Garvey was the Grand Marshal. Marched almost every year thereafter as County Legislator or with the Peekskill Museum or Hudson Valley Gateway Chamber of Commerce.
Would you call being Grand Marshal something of a lifelong dream for you?
Indeed, it is an honor. When I received the call that I was selected, it was overwhelming; certainly unexpected. The parade activities this past week and the upcoming parade will be a lasting and fond memory always to be cherished.
Have you been to Ireland?
A trip to the Emerald Isle was scheduled for 2024; however, my hip acted up and eventually I had a hip replacement. The plan is to visit this summer. Be assured I will make certain I kiss the genuine blarney stone. You know what they call any impostor blarney stone? A SHAM rock.
When you’re not leading parades through the emerald streets of Peekskill, what’s your day job?
Being semi-retired I continue to practice law on a limited basis. My part- time consultant service to the Town of Cortlandt for economic development keeps me active and busy. I enjoy that work because everyone with the town, Supervisor Becker, the council, and staff are terrific. Volunteering and community service have been part of [my life] since high school. For over a decade I have participated in fundraising for various organizations, such as Polar Plunge for Special Olympics, Hope for Youth, Hudson Valley Gateway Chamber of Commerce Foundation and now the Parade Committee. My primary community service currently is serving as President of the Peekskill Museum. It is such a pleasure working with the museum’s group of dedicated volunteers.
What’s your favorite Irish food and drink ?
A dish of bacon and cabbage, Irish soda bread washed down with a cold mug of Harp. As mostly a bourbon drinker, during March I switch to Jameson Irish Whiskey.
Is it true that on every St. Patrick’s Day you change the spelling of your name to George O’Ros?
Yes, that started in the early 1990s when I purchased an ad for the Parade Journal.
What are your favorite places to go to in Peekskill?
The Peekskill Museum, of course. The Paramount presents some fantastic shows and, for dining, Ruben’s or Gleason’s. But as economic development consultant for Cortlandt, most of my favorite places are there: Craft Tacos and Tequila, Savannah, Table 9, and perhaps my number one, Fino.
What would you like to say to the Peekskill community?
Thank you for this esteemed honor; keep alive the culture and traditions of the Irish; live with the faith of St. Patrick. To make our world a better place, emulate the characteristics of the Irish: closeness with family, a true sense of justice and fairness; fondness for a grand party; love of song word and dance; resiliency in the face of adversity and always wear that smile on your face and a twinkle in your eye.
