Clinton Township Newsletter

5 m a r c h 2 0 2 6 Happy St. Patrick's Day! 5 The Friendly Sons of St. P a t r i c k o f Hunterdon C o u n t y (FSSP) has named Mr. T i m o t h y Hyland (of P i t t s t o w n ) a s 2 0 2 6 F S S P P a r a d e G r a n d M a r s h a l a n d M r . Brian Parente (of Clinton) as 2026 Irishman of the Year. Both gentlemen received their sashes of office at a meeting of the Friendly Sons in December 2025, presided over by the newly installed 9th President of the FSSP, Mr. Michael Montefusco of Whitehouse Station. FSSP President Mike Montefusco paid tribute to both Tim and Brian, who have been long time members, and tireless contributors of the Friendly Sons over the past decade and how their efforts have supported the mission of the FSSP. "The Friendly Sons of St. Patrick of Hunterdon County are proud to recognize Brian Parente as our 2026 Irishman of the Year. Brian's life is a true reflection of service, integrity, and quiet leadership. From a distinguished 30-year career in law enforcement to his unwavering dedication to family, community, and the mission of the Friendly Sons, Brian exemplifies the values our organization was founded upon. His hands-on involvement, steady presence, and genuine desire to help others, often without seeking recognition, have made a lasting impact on our Brotherhood and on Hunterdon County as a whole. We are honored to celebrate Brian for the character, compassion, and commitment he brings to everything he does. We are equally honored to name Tim Hyland as the 2026 Grand Marshal of the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick Parade. Tim's passion for Irish heritage, combined with his tireless dedication to the Friendly Sons, has helped strengthen and grow our organization in meaningful ways. Through his leadership on our Executive Committee, his work expanding sponsorships, and his involvement across our major events, Tim has played a vital role in ensuring the long-term success of our mission. His love for Irish culture, family, and fellowship is evident in all he does, and we are proud to recognize him as this year's Grand Marshal." Irish Festival Chair Mr. Russell Crosby (of Sparta) detailed the upcoming FSSP Irish Festival that is the organization's most important annual fundraiser. "The Friendly Sons are excited to once again host the Hunterdon County Irish Festival this March, a celebration of Irish culture, music, and community that continues to grow each year. We invite the entire community to join us for a weekend of live music, food, and family-friendly events, while supporting the charitable mission of the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick. Proceeds from the festival help us give back locally, supporting individuals and families in need throughout Hunterdon County. We look forward to celebrating together and honoring the rich traditions that bring us all together. The Irish Festival is the FSSP's largest annual fundraising event. Since 2008, the FSSP has raised and donated over $800,000 to local worthy causes, families and individuals facing personal hardship or medical issues. We are an entirely voluntary 501(c)3 charitable organization and 100% of the funds raised by the FSSP go toward supporting our philanthropic endeavors." The FSSP are partnering with the Town of Clinton, Hunterdon County Rotaries Clubs, The Run O' The Mill 5K road race, and the Red Mill Museum Village to present the Irish Festival Weekend with multiple concerts, social and family-friendly events from March 13 -15. The festivities are highlighted with the 12th Anniversary FSSP St. Patrick's Day Parade which will step off at 3:00 pm on Sunday, March 15 in downtown Clinton. This year's Parade will be bigger than ever with more bands, more marching groups, and more attractions. The Parade will highlight Irish American traditions and culture, including six Pipe & Drum bands, along with world class Irish dancers, musicians, singers, public service groups, veterans, vintage cars, canine & equine groups and much more. In the years since the first parade in 2014, it has grown to be the largest single-day event in Clinton, NJ, that is family- friendly and entertaining for all ages young and old. In recent years, the annual FSSP St. Patrick's Day Parade has been expanded to a three-day event based upon the massive community response and support. All events will be held at the Red Mill Museum Village Pavilion in a fully enclosed, heated space. Run O' the Mill 5K – Saturday March 14 (8:00 am): The Run O' the Mill is a 5K road race held in Clinton, NJ and founded by hometown Olympian Julie Culley. Julie originally envisioned the St. Patrick's Day Weekend event as a community celebration and an act of gratitude for the town that embraced her in the years leading up to the 2012 Olympic Games. Registration and more information: https://runsignup.com/ Race/NJ/Clinton/RunOMill5K. Rotary Children's Party (Free): The Clinton Sunrise and North Hunterdon Rotary's will be hosting a Children's Party on Saturday, March 14th at 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM at the Red Mill Museum Village Pavilion. This is non-ticketed event. There will be Irish step dancing lessons and demonstrations, a DJ, games and crafts for the children. The party will feature a variety of Irish craft activities, delicious treats & refreshments, and lively Irish music. Parents can relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings of the Red Mill Museum Village while their children have a fantastic time. It's a great way to spend quality time with your family and meet other members of the community. Admission is free for all families with no reservations required. Please support our generous sponsors! The Friendly Sons are hugely appreciative of all the local businesses that have supported us in the past as FSSP Parade, AfterParty and Golf Outing sponsors. We thank our sponsors including Platinum Sponsor Kearns Rotolo Law LLP, Emerald Sponsors; Unity Bank, Stone Hill Financial, Lawn Doctor, Ferguson HVAC and Russ's Wrench, Toyota World, our Gold Co-Sponsors Simply the Best Pest Control, Lanza & Lanza LLP, Clinton Acura, Cryan's Tavern, Green Power Energy, and Martin Funeral Home. Additional support comes from our AfterParty sponsors, Liberty Engineering and JD's Wine & Spirits. The FSSP will be holding a 50/50 raffle with the draw taking place on Sunday, March 15th at the Red Mill Museum Village after the FSSP St. Patrick's Day Parade. Tickets are $10 each and are available from any Friendly Son member and from selected outlets in Clinton. You do not have to be present to win. The 2025 winner won over $8,000. FSSP Irish Festival Concert Series at The Red Mill Museum Village, 56 Main Street, Clinton. Tickets: https://fssphunterdon.ticketspice. com/hc-irish-festival. Tickets are $50 for each concert (discounts for multiple night purchases) and include free beer (21+), other adult beverages, water, soda & entertainment. Food trucks including Va Fa Napoli Pizza, Spuddy Buddy Fry Factory. Real Deal BBQ and Designer Dawgs available for purchase. These events are taking place in the heated Red Mill Pavillion under cover. All events and concerts are Rain-or-Shine. Friday March 13: Mid-Life Crisis (Doors open 5:30, music 7:00 to 10:00 pm). Kick off the Irish Festival weekend with Mid-Life Crisis, a local New Jersey band known for their engaging performances and a dynamic mix of classic '60s rock and contemporary hits. Their energetic vibe will set the tone for a fantastic weekend, providing a perfect blend of nostalgia and modern tunes that get everyone dancing. Saturday March 14: Rogue Diplomates & The Big Fuss (Doors open 5:00 pm, music 6:00 pm to 11:00 pm). The second night of the FSSP Irish Festival starts off with Rogue Diplomates, a unique group recognized for their eclectic sound and clever lyricism. Expect a blend of various genres that include folk, rock, and pop. Prepare for an uplifting experience that's sure to resonate with all fans of live music.Following Rogue Diplomates on Saturday night, The Big Fuss takes the stage. With their captivating melodies and anthemic choruses, this band promises an exhilarating experience. Their show is anticipated to be full of crowd favorites, and its sure to be a highlight of the weekend. Sunday March 15: Mushmouth (Doors open 4:00 pm, music 6:00 to 8:00 pm). After the annual St. Patrick's Day Parade, come and enjoy a lively gathering filled with music, Irish dancing, and great company. Our event promises an unforgettable experience as we honor the rich traditions of St. Patrick's Day. We will be having a rip-roaring good time at the Red Mill Museum Village after the FSSP St. Patrick's Day Parade! The Irish Festival concert series will wrap up the weekend with Mushmouth, a Kearney band known for their powerful sound and infectious energy. They will take the stage for a set that showcases a mix of rock and blues, delivering a perfect way to end the Irish Festival weekend on a high note. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to their music, Mushmouth's performance is not to be missed. FSSP names Mr. Timothy Hyland Parade Grand Marshal and Mr. Brian Parente Irishman of the Year for 2026 The 12th Anniversary FSSP St. Patrick's Day Parade will be the highlight of the Hunterdon County Irish Festival in Clinton, held from March 13-15 Kickoff Concert: Mid-Life Crisis. Friday, March 13 (Doors Open 5:30 pm) – Red Mill Pavilion Run O' The Mill 5K: Saturday, March 14 – Halstead St, Clinton (Race starts at 8:00 am) Rotary Children's Party: Saturday, March 14 (11:00 am - 3:00 pm) – Red Mill Pavilion Saturday: Rogue Diplomats & The Big Fuss: Saturday, March 14 (5:00 pm) – Red Mill Pavilion 12th Anniversary FSSP St. Patrick's Day Parade: Sunday, March 15 (3:00 pm) – Clinton FSSP AfterParty: Mushmouth: Sunday, March 15 (4:00 pm) – Red Mill Pavilion 50/50 Raffle Drawing on March 15

• Cover