Special Events America 250

Suffolk Courts Celebrate America 250 with Nation’s Favorite Pastime

July 1, 2026 
Fairfield Properties Ballpark, Central Islip, NY

The Tenth Judicial District (Suffolk County), led by District Administrative Judge Andrew A. Crecca, continued its 250th anniversary celebration of American independence with Court Night at Ducks Stadium at the Fairfield Properties Ballpark in Central Islip. Hosted by the Long Island Ducks minor league baseball team, the gathering brought together Suffolk County judges and court staff and their families for an evening of recreation and community engagement. The game coincided with the Ducks’ “Bark in the Park” promotion, offering attendees additional family-friendly activities as they enjoyed the festive atmosphere at the ballpark.

The Ducks honored the celebration with a 15–7 victory over the Southern Maryland Blue Crabs, adding to the spirited mood of the evening. Judge Crecca noted that the Suffolk County Courts’ Independence Day events, including Court Night, provide opportunities for judges and staff to connect outside the courthouse while commemorating the nation’s founding principles and the judiciary’s role in upholding them.

Court Night at Ducks Stadium has become an annual tradition within the Suffolk County Courts’ community, reinforcing camaraderie, appreciation, and engagement as part of this year’s broader commemoration of the Declaration of Independence’s 250th anniversary.

BBQs, Baking Contests Mark Suffolk Courts’ America 250 Celebration  

Week of June 30, 2026
John P. Cohalan Jr. Court Complex, Central Islip and Arthur M. Cromarty Court Complex, Riverhead

Members of the court system’s Tenth Judicial District (Suffolk County) enjoyed barbecue fare as part of the Suffolk County Courts’ broader America 250 commemoration. Barbecue events were held at the District’s Central Islip and Riverhead courthouses, both of which were decorated with commemorative American flags and specially designed patriotic displays in recognition of this milestone anniversary.

Under the leadership of District Administrative Judge Andrew A. Crecca, the gatherings offered judges and court staff an opportunity to come together over food, refreshments, and community activities to mark the 250-year anniversary of America’s birth.

Festivities included apple pie baking contests and the “Court Cupcake Wars,” with employees contributing patriotically themed cupcakes. Cold treats from a local ice cream truck offered a respite from the exceptionally warm weather, adding to the seasonal atmosphere. 

The courthouse barbecues underscored the Tenth Judicial District’s commitment to community, also reaffirming its dedication to fairness, service, and the rule of law.

Sullivan County Courts Commemorate America 250

July 2, 2026
Sullivan County Courthouse, Monticello, New York

The Sullivan County Courts welcomed community members, public officials, and local partners to the courthouse for a commemoration of the 250th anniversary of American independence. The celebration, held both in person and virtually, highlighted the enduring principles of democracy, civic participation, and the judiciary’s role in safeguarding the rights first articulated in 1776.

The event began with the presentation of colors by the Sullivan County Sheriff’s Office Color Guard, followed by a performance of the National Anthem by vocalist Albee Bockman and the Pledge of Allegiance led by Major Tina Perez.

Third Judicial District Administrative Judge E. Danielle Jose Decker reflected on the significance of gathering during the week of Independence Day, noting that democracy is not abstract but an ongoing, collective effort. She spoke about the courage of the Declaration’s signers, the risks they undertook, and the timelessness of their decision to commit “their lives, their fortunes, and their sacred honor” to the ideals of liberty and self governance.

Her remarks also underscored the deep meaning and history embodied in the American flag, drawing connections to the longstanding patriotic traditions of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks — early champions of Flag Day observances — and recognizing Scouting America Troop 101, whose presence signified the importance of service, duty, and civic commitment among young people.

Sullivan County Family Court Judge and Acting New York State Supreme Court Justice Jacqueline Ricciani offered reflections on the Federalist Papers and the monumental challenge faced by the Founders as they sought to create a system of government without historical precedent. Judge Ricciani described how Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, and John Jay worked to persuade the public that a government grounded in law, not monarchy, could succeed. She emphasized the Founders’ insistence on separating powers among the legislative, executive, and judicial branches to prevent tyranny.

Citing Hamilton’s writings, she noted that while the judiciary controls neither the sword nor the purse, it serves as a guardian of constitutional rights, ensuring that laws are applied consistently — even when doing so runs counter to public sentiment. Judicial independence, she explained, exists not to empower judges but to protect the rights of individuals and uphold the rule of law.

The ceremony continued with New York State Supreme Court Justice Meagan Galligan’s reading of the Declaration of Independence, followed by commentary from Sullivan County Court Judge and Surrogate James Farrell and closing remarks from New York State Supreme Court Justice Stephan Schick. Through reflection and community, the Sullivan County Courts honored both the principles that shaped this nation 250 years ago and the judiciary’s commitment to these enduring ideals.