Wednesday, 21 February 2024 n www.TheObserver.com n Volume CXXXVI, Issue No. 42
UNDER THE COVER Arrest made in fatal Nutley hit & run crash Page 4
READYTOMARCH BELLEVILLE n BLOOMFIELD n EAST NEWARK n HARRISON n KEARNY n LYNDHURST n NORTH ARLINGTON n NUTLEY
Taking a look at the 2024 United Irish St. Patrick’s Day Parade honorees
W
e’re just a wee few weeks away from the United Irish Associations of West Hudson’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade — it steps off at 1 p.m., Sunday, March 10, near Harrison Town Hall to be precise — and in advance of it all, here’s a look at the three who will be marching along in the big parade, near St. Patrick’s Day, leading it through to Kearny. No doubt, they’ll be up to their necks in Shamrocks as they march along the way.
From left, Titterington, Dow and Spence
Grand Marshal Bill Dow Jr. The Dow Family was actively involved in St. Cecilia Church and the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks in Kearny, dating back to 1960. Bill Sr. and Florence’s father, “Red” Hawkins were active members of the organization that gave back to others and veterans. Bill Sr., a veteran himself, was involved because he felt the organization truly made a difference locally and in the lives of others.
When Bill Dow Jr. was only 7, his father became ill and died following a brief stay in the VA. It was then young Bill realized how important getting support from family and friends was. With the loss of her husband, Florence moved back into her family home and Bill and Ann grew up with the love and support of their mother and grandfather. As a teenager, Bill Jr. started volunteering. He began helping the Special Olympics and worked with special-needs children. His love of helping others continued as he was actively involved with the food pantry at St. Cecilia. As he got older, he decided to follow in the footsteps of his dad and grandfather and became an active member of the Kearny Elks. He was especially fond of the Special Children’s and Veterans committees, always rallying others to help those in need. Bill moved through the ranks within the Elks and has served in almost every capacity. See PARADE, Page 14
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