Pearl River in Rockland County, New York is a town like no other. We're known for being an extremely close-knit community and also extremely Irish. The two questions I get when I say I'm from Pearl River are either, "Where is that?" or "Oh, so you're Irish." And those answers are, "20 minutes north of NYC," and "Yes, I am Irish." Our town is the third most Irish town in NY State, with a whopping 43.4 percent of Pearl River's population is Irish. Growing up here, you learn the in's and out's and pros and cons of living in this community. Here's a list of things you are sure to know about if you've grown up in Pearl River!
1. Pete's (Zimi's).
If you've lived in Pearl River for awhile, you probably know it as Pete's, but for the newcomers, it's Zimi's. These bagels are the best around, and if you're away at college like me, this is one thing you are sure to miss. Chances are if you go in there on a Saturday or Sunday morning, you'll see at least three people you know.
2. A trip to ShopRite will never be short.
Due to our small population, going to ShopRite with your parents will never be "quick" because they will most likely know the entire store. If your parents are anything like mine, they will also have to stop and have at least a 10 minute conversation with anyone that they know.
3. Going to college was/will be a huge culture shock.
Because of our huge Irish population, going to college will be very different for you. This isn't a bad difference, but actually good because you get to be surrounded by a bunch of different kinds of people.
4. The double light by Smiley.
One huge downfall about Pearl River: Getting stuck at this light might as well ruin your entire day because it is one of the most annoying things ever. It takes double the time to get through it, and if I can avoid it at any cost, I most definitely will.
5. You're probably Catholic.
Catholicism is also huge in our town. Chances are you attended religion school at either St. Aedan's or St. Margaret's with all of your friends from school.
6. The running man.
When I say this you know exactly who I am talking about. The unknown man who is always running no matter the weather, and sometimes is sporting an American flag.
7. You know everything about everyone.
Keeping secrets or trying to hide something in this small town just won't happen. Everything spreads like wildfire here, and everybody will probably know what you have done by the end of the day.
8. The city.
Being only about 20 miles from New York City is a blessing. Day trips are common for you and your friends, and chances are you have seen the Rockefeller Tree about a billion times.
9. Our parade!
St. Paddy's Day is not just a holiday in Pearl River, but it's a part of our lifestyle and a day awaited by many. The Sunday after March 17 is usually the best day of the year for most Pearl River residents. On this day, we have our very own Pearl River St. Patrick's Day Parade, which is the second biggest in New York following the NYC Parade. This year will mark the 54th Parade, and I can definitely say I have a countdown!
10. Country roads, take me home to the place I belong.
Pearl River, Rockland County—take me home, country roads! We even made our own version to "Take Me Home, Country Roads" by John Denver, and there's a great chance you've sung it yourself. Whether it's the train ride to the city parade or just a high school basketball game, this is sure to be sung in big Pearl River crowds.
I have to say I wouldn't trade growing up in Pearl River for anything. We will always be "The Town of Friendly People," and I wouldn't change anything about it. Go Pirates!
