Highlighted below are some of this organizations milestones and how they came to be:
• In the 1950’s large numbers of young Irish emigrated to the United States.
• Much like the generation before them, these new immigrants wanted their children to learn their Irish heritage and culture. So, in the 1960’s the children of these new Irish-Americans attended Irish dancing and music schools.
• The sud
den influx of hundreds of extra competitors surprised and overwhelmed the established Feis committees. They were unable or unwilling to provide the necessary changes needed to accommodate the new participants, despite repeated requests from parents.
• In 1970, when it became apparent that existing organizations could not adapt to the increased numbers of children who wanted to participate in the competitions, the Parents and Students Irish Dancing and Music Association of North America, Inc. was formed.
• A group of parents painstakingly prepared a well-written constitution, bylaws, articles and objectives with a clear message on disciplined adherence.
• The organization was chartered by the State of New York in 1971.
• When Feis Committees could not comply with the organization’s goals, it became apparent that the Parents and Students Irish Dancing and Music Association of North America, Inc. needed to hold its own feis.
• On May 19, 1972 they held their first feis at Gaelic Park, Bronx, NY. Years of setting a perfect example of how to run a feis inspired others to do the same. Special efforts were made by the organization to be an active presence in assisting their own Feis committee in the preparation and overall operation. Soon this principle to spread responsibility became a trademark that was followed by other organizations. Many sought the advice of our Feis committee for assistance.
• The first dinner dance was held at the Trocadero Ballroom in April 1972. This is an annual event and every year one of its members has merited the “Guest of Honor” distinction.
• In 1973, the organization became affiliated with the St. Patrick’s Day Parade.
• On March 17, 1974, the Parents and Students Irish Dancing and Music Association of North America, Inc. The organization has participated each year since and has taken its place among the best and noblest marching units.
• We are an award-winning unit having taken 1st place in its category numerous times (over 15x). We’ve had as many as 60 children, seven years and older, comprising about thirty percent of the unit. The children perform in front of St. Patrick’s Cathedral for the Cardinal and in front of the Grandstand for the Grand Marshal and his/her aides as well as at various locations along the route to loud applause. Each student carries a tin-whistle with ribbons attached ready to play a march and to use in the dance routines. March 2023 marks the first year we had dedicated whistle players which included adults.
• The Tommy Farrell Memorial Communion Breakfast was initiated in 1981. Each year deceased members are remembered, and funds are raised for charities. Originally, we donated to the American Cancer Society. Proceeds are now donated to Calvary Hospital. The Parents and Students Irish Dancing and Music Association of North America, Inc. is proud to have helped renew Irish culture and heritage in our children for the last fifty years and plans to continue doing so. Congratulation to all members as we celebrate our success as an organization.
