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Dear Emeralds and Friends,
I am excited to invite you to our Fourth Annual Cigar Night, taking place on Monday, October 26, 2026, at Vetro Restaurant & Lounge by Russo’s on the Bay in Howard Beach, New York. This special event is designed to bring together Emeralds, labor members, and cherished friends for an evening filled with camaraderie, recognition, and support for a worthy cause.
Over the past three years, thanks to the generosity of our affiliated organizations and supporters, we have made significant contributions to deserving Irish American charities:
2025 - Irish American Baseball Society: $10,000
2024 - Project Children: $10,000
2023 - Fighting 69th Historical Trust: $10,000
This year, we are proud to honor three exceptional leaders whose commitment and service embody the values of the labor movement and the Emerald tradition:
Frank Morales, President, UWUA Local 1-2
Patrick O’Malley, 1st Vice President, NYS SCOA
Kevin Grace, Lieutenant Representative, FDNY UFOA
A portion of the proceeds from Cigar Night will benefit the Knights of Saint Patrick Foundation, whose primary mission is to provide annual financial support to the New York City Parade, promoting the study of Irish culture and raising awareness.
Since 1988, the Knights have contributed over $1.8 million to the Parade, along with donations to notable organizations such as Saint Patrick’s Cathedral, the Saint Patrick’s Day Foundation, the NYC Irish Arts Center, and the Msgr. Jack Barry Scholarship Fund.
In 2026, the Knights extended financial support to 13 local Saint Patrick’s Day Parades, including those in Brooklyn, Bay Ridge, Eastchester, Goshen, Mahopac, Mineola, Rockville Centre, Rockaway, Pearl River, Peekskill, Staten Island, Yonkers, and Warwick. This initiative helps to sustain the spirit of Saint Patrick and Irish America throughout the New York Metropolitan Area.
You can look forward to enjoying a premium selection of cigars, a four-hour premium open bar, a Fighting 69th Irish Whiskey toast, delicious appetizers, a hot/cold buffet, dessert, raffles, and prizes all in the company of wonderful friends and the spirit of Emerald fellowship.
We also encourage you to explore corporate sponsorship opportunities, which provide excellent visibility while supporting a meaningful cause.
We are truly grateful for your ongoing friendship, generosity, and commitment. I eagerly anticipate welcoming you on October 26th for what promises to be an extraordinary event. The Dress Code for the evening is business casual.
If you have any questions, please contact me at p.whalen@verizon.net or 718-490-8765 I am looking forward to seeing you on October 26, 2026.
No tickets will be sold at the door.
*The dress code is business casual*
Fraternally,
Peter F. Whalen
Peter Whalen
Chairman
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