Fifth Apple Eve on Railroad Avenue celebrates New Year’s Eve virtually

Unlike previous New Year’s Eves there were no huge crowds, hot drinks, baked goods or any surprise visit by the “Headless Horseman.”

But nevertheless, the tradition continued this year with a virtual presentation of the fifth Apple Eve on Railroad Avenue that residents could view safely from their homes.

Four years ago during Warwick’s first ever-New Year’s Eve community celebration, Mayor Michael Newhard had suggested that Apple Eve become an annual event.

“I think we created an event to come together as a community,” he said at that time. “That’s what Warwick’s all about.”

The video, filmed in advance, was available for viewing on WVTV You Tube at 11:45 p.m. on Dec. 31. The link and other information had been posted on the village website.

The presentation began with an historical tour of the village and reflections of Newhard and Town of Warwick Supervisor Michael Sweeton on the difficulties of 2020 and hope for the future.

Newhard began the Apple Drop ceremony by welcoming the audience to Railroad Green.

“We’re giving this,” he said, “as a gift to you.”

He wished everyone a Happy New Year and offered a special thanks to Dan Cecconie and media students from the Warwick Valley High School, the Village of Warwick DPW and DPW Supervisor, Mike Moser, John Redmond, who designed the original Apple, United Methodist Church Pastor Jen Marrow, Reformed Church Pastor Stacey Duensing Pearce and Sweeton for their contribution to this special event.

The two pastors then offered invocations for the New Year followed by the official Apple Drop at midnight.

- Roger Gavan