Published March 23. 2021 09:08AM
A raw day didn’t stop the annual St. Patrick’s Day Irish flag-raising at City Hall on March 17. Representing Mayor Robert Donchez, Chief of Staff Alex Karras noted the contributions of the Irish in Bethlehem. “Bethlehem is a community of diverse backgrounds,” said Karras during his brief remarks. Members of the City of Bethlehem Bagpipe Band, piper James Ruhf and drummer Jim Propst provided music. Students at the O’Grady Quinlan Academy of Irish Dance exhibited their usual precision in several routines.
Prior to the St. Patrick's Day Irish flag raising event, City of Bethlehem Bagpipe Band drummer Jim Propst greets Asa and his partner Officer Justin Madera. Nearby are Grey and his partner Officer Mark Kuntzman.
Bagpiper James Ruhf and drummer Jim Propst performed several selections. It was Ruhf's 28th year playing at the flag-raising.
Downtown business owner Neville Gardner hoists the Irish flag.
PRESS PHOTOS BY DANA GRUBB Dancers from the O'Grady Quinlan Academy of Irish Dance perform on St. Patrick's Day at Payrow Plaza.
Chief of Staff Alex Karras welcomes attendees on behalf of Mayor Robert Donchez.
