Since I was born in Buffalo, NY and have lived most my life here, I thought it was time to experience my hometown’s Valley “Old Neighborhood” Patrick’s Day Parade. It is a shortened version of the city’s traditional St. Pat’s Parade and takes place in the First Ward—the cradle of Irish culture and heritage in the Queen City.
For some reason I thought this parade was a long-running Buffalo tradition. However, today while meandering through the pre-parade lineup, and chatting with organizers and participants, I learned this year marks the 25th anniversary of the event. Which means it began the same year my mother passed.
And so this video project comes full circle…..