THE CRESCENT HARP

OFFICIAL NEWSLETTER OF THE ANCIENT ORDER OF HIBERNIANS IN LOUISIANA

VOLUME 4, ISSUE 3 MARCH—MAY 2013

http://aohla.com A JUDGE AND A TANAISTE HIGHLIGHT Facebook: Louisiana State Board of THE ST. PATRICK’S DAY CELEBRATION the Ancient Order of Hibernians The usual pomp and circumstance that sur- Connery. Accompanied by his wife Carol Hanney rounds the Irish-American celebration of St. Pat- Gilmore, Mr. Gilmore toured the city— rick’s Day became even grater in scope with an- especially the areas ravaged by Hurricane other visit to New Orleans by a noted dignity Katrina—laid wreaths at the Celtic Cross Monu- from the Irish government and ment and the Katrina Memorial the honoring of the chief leader Cemetery, and helped open the of the Irish-American commu- Irish-American Cultural Mu- nity in New Orleans. seum in the French Quarter. INSIDE THIS ISSUE An Tánaiste The Honorable Mr. Gilmore also found time to EDITORIAL P.2 PRESIDENT’S LETTER P.3 Eamon Gilmore, Deputy stop in at Finn McCool’s Irish PRAYER LIST P.4 Prime Minister and Minister Pub in Mid-City to meet the A HIBERNIAN REFLECTS P.5 for Foreign Affairs and Trade, patrons getting ready to cele- NO ROSE MOVES ON P.5 made a historic visit to New brate St. Patrick’s Day and to DIVISIONAL NEWS P.6 Orleans as guest of both the sample their special frozen Irish IRISH HISTORY P.7 AOH and the Irish Network- Coffee. He also attended an IN HIBERNIANS IN THE NEWS P.7 New Orleans. Mr. Gilmore -NOLA luncheon at Brennan’s PHOTO GALLERY PP.8-9 has been the Leader of the La- restaurant where he helped IRISH COMMUNITY NEWSP.10 bour Party since September honor the young men and IRISH VETERANS P.11 2007. He has represented the women recognized by the or- constituency of Dún Laoghaire ganization for their scholarly The Judge, applauded by a in Dáil Éireann since 1989, submissions on Ireland and the multitude from the McKay and firstly as a member of the Irish Culture. Mitchell clans, walked proudly Workers' Party of Ireland, As glorious as was Mr. Gil- into the grand ballroom of the later as a member of Democ- more’s visit was, he was Sheraton, leading the Hibernians ratic Left and most recently as equaled in magnificence by the alongside New Orleans a member of the . AOH honoree, Judge James Archbishop Gregory Aymond. He served as a Minister of State McKay. Starting on Saturday A wonderful dinner and evening at the Department of the Ma- with the Irish Channel Parade, of entertainment was capped off rine from 1994 until 1997 as Judge McKay stepped proudly by a heartfelt speech from Mr. part of the "Rainbow Coali- through Uptown and the Irish Gilmore and stirring summation tion" during the Government Channel with his green derby of Hibernianism and the impor- of the 27th Dáil. In a touching moment, Mrs. Gaynell and treasured shillelagh visiting tance of the Irish and their con- Hand, widow of the late AOH Brother tributions by Judge McKay. Born in County , Peter Hand, stops to greet AOH National supporters and well wishers Throughout the city on March Gilmore graduated from Uni- Vice-President and 2013 Hibernian of the and offering plenty of love to versity College Galway, be- Year Judge Jim McKay at the Irish Chan- all in the adoring crowds. 17, many people celebrated the coming President of the Union nel St. Patrick’s Day Parade. On Sunday, the AOH then spirit and faith of the Irish peo- of Students in Ireland. Later, as began its honoring of Judge ple, and the Hibernians, the IN- a trade union organizer, he entered local politics. McKay and the Apostle of Ireland, St. Patrick NOLA, and the Irish Channel He has been instrumental in leading the Labour with the traditional Mass at St. Patrick’s Church in Parade organization showed the Party to becoming the second largest party in Ire- downtown New Orleans. In the historic church people of Ireland and the people land. that for a time served as the Cathedral of New of New Orleans how it is done Mr. Gilmore was joined in his visit by Director Orleans, the Hibernians marched in solemnly be- properly. General of the Mr. Niall Bur- neath their respective division banners and cele- gess, Irish Consul Mr. Paul Gleeson, and their brated Mass together as their ancestors had assistants Miss Niamh Sweeney and Mrs. Mary done—not centuries—but millennia ago. P AGE 2 THE CRESCENT HARP EDITORIAL - THINK BEFORE YOU WRITE OR SPEAK THE CRESCENT HARP It has been said that the Irish and group among one’s readership is opinion of himself and his relative Editor-in-Chief Catholics are the last groups safe to hardly a way to cement one’s suc- importance and added to his list of John T. Browne Editorial Staff disparage and about which to make cess. forgetfulness the fact that he is sup- John D. Fitzmorris III derogatory remarks. And while one On the national stage, Ohio State posed first and foremost to represent Stanton McNeely should shun at all times inferiority President Gordon Gee recently re- education and enlightenment. Jeremy Hughes and persecution complexes, espe- signed in part as a result of com- However, there is one area that Ex-Officio cially when they really are not there, ments he made disparaging Roman need also be addressed if we are to Joseph Casler there occasionally occur such mind- Catholics at a meeting to talk about castigate both of these boorish indi- Harold Burke Mark Foley less and mean-spirited remarks that the expansion of the Big Ten Confer- viduals. Without fuel for the fire, Martin Kearney one is forced to speak up in one’s ence. The ham-handed Gee joked people like Wirt and Gee have no Ronald Burke own and one’s own group’s defense on how the University of Notre incentive or reason to act so inap- ——————————- and call out the boors and poltroons Dame would not be joining the con- propriately. The unfortunate prob- ARTICLE SUBMISSION for what they are. ference. Feeding off the crowd, the lem with stereotypes is that they VIA: Such is the case regarding a local Ohio State President joked that sometimes have in them a kernel of [email protected] [email protected] incident and another with a far more Notre Dame was never invited to truth. Please submit all photos national scope. the Big Ten because “they’re not There would never be any further via .jpeg Locally, John Wirt a reporter for very good partners,” he said. need of outrage on our part if there the New Orleans Advocate wrote a “The fathers are holy on Sunday were no further incidents surround- ARTICLE DEADLINES: review of comedian Kathy Griffin’s and they’re holy hell on the rest of ing St. Patrick’s Day that add to the November 15 February 15 recent performance at L’Auberge the week. You just can’t trust those stereotype. There would be no rea- May 15 Casino. For those not familiar with damn Catholics on a Thursday or son for such inane jokes if our local August 15 her, Griffin is known for her conver- Friday so, literally, I can say that media would stop featuring only sational style and statements on pop very truthfully.” drunken St. Patrick’s Day revelers in OUR VETERANS culture, religion and sexuality. Her Apparently, Gee seems to have a video shots and photographs. There acerbic style leaves no one or group problem with anyone other than him would be no reason for Gee and It is the VETERAN, safe from her acerbic brand of com- being successful and hard negotia- Wirt and others to offer such silli- not the preacher, edy. tors. If a second tier assistant ath- ness on their parts were there not who has given us In his piece on Griffin’s perform- letic director had made such com- the silliness of the countless t-shirt freedom of religion. ance, Wirt wrote: ments, they probably would have outlets that sell shirt with insulting “Despite her own Irish-Catholic gone by the wayside and more than Irish slogans on them...and us creat- It is the VETERAN, heritage of drunkenness, Griffin likely unnoticed. But these be- ing a demand for them. not the reporter, added that she herself does not nighted comments came from the Gee has apologized to Notre who has given us drink. But her mother, Maggie president of one of the largest uni- Dame and to the Catholic commu- freedom of the press. Griffin, is perpetually drunk versities in the nation. nity in Ohio for his remarks. For and forever dressed in a muu- Gee has had a history of making their parts, both the University of It is the VETERAN, muu, according to the comedi- off-the-cuff comments and jokes that Notre Dame and the U.S. Confer- not the poet, enne. “ have insulted people and other insti- ence of Catholic Bishops have taken who has given us freedom of speech. A comedian performing at a casino tutions. His “hail-fellow-well-met” the high road and accepted Gee’s is subject only to the rules of the attitude plays well in fundraisers at apology and stressed the necessity of It is the VETERAN, market. What he or she chooses to which he has proven very adept. forgiveness. not the campus organizer, say on stage is the business of the However, even the Ohio State Gee has chosen to retire in order who has given us comedian and the casino that does alumni and boosters agree that Gee’s to spend, as he calls it, “some time in freedom to assemble. the booking. From that point, the attitude is not always in keeping with reflection” and “to turn over the patrons vote with their feet and their that of the president of a university. reins of leadership to allow the seeds It is the VETERAN, wallets. In addition, Gee should know that we have planted to grow.” not the lawyer, For a news reporter to offer an better. His own Mormon heritage is One can only hope that Gee’s who has given us aside of his or her own while sum- one of oppression and persecution. reflection will lead him to wisdom in the right to a fair trial. marizing is another matter alto- Instead, he chose to forget that his- any further remarks and that the gether. While, it is probably true tory and disparage a university and a “seeds” he has planted do not benefit It is the VETERAN, that Wirt probably got carried away faith that has been as much a part of too much from the manure that we not the politician, and became enamored of his own the building of this nation as has the have in part supplied for him and he Who has given us prose, a bit more reflection and care institution in Columbus. has been more than willing to spread the right to vote. would be in order for any reporter Furthermore, Gee is an academic. around. before he or she makes such stereo- His comments represent a brand of It is the VETERAN, typical comments about any group. anti-intellectualism unworthy of who salutes the Flag, The Advocate is a paper that has someone who has risen to lead not who serves under the Flag. made excellent inroads into the New one but several major universities.

Fr. Denis Edward O’Brien Orleans Area since the demise of the Like John Wirt, Gee let himself get Times-Picayune. Insulting any ethnic carried away by his own inflated VOLUME 4, ISSUE 3 PAGE 3

STATE PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Greeting Brother Hibernians! tion in Louisiana. Our Federal 501(c) The first official Irish-American (3) application seeking recognition as a Heritage Month in Louisiana has come nonprofit organization which allows and gone and what a month it was! tax deductions for charitable donations We honored one of the AOH’s great- to the fund is pending. The primary est champions, Judge Jim McKay, as purpose of the LHC is to raise funds to our Hibernian of the Year and cele- complete the Celtic Cross project at brated St. Patrick’s Day in grand style the New Basin Canal in New Orleans. at the Sheraton Hotel in New Orleans. We are on our way to securing a lease The festivities included a wonderful agreement for the site and once that dance set by the Muggivan School of has been signed, we will communicate Irish Dance followed by music per- our fundraising strategy to you. We formed by Stephens Green and the already have a major sponsor/ you that a good time will be had by Jimmy Maxwell Orchestra. One of contributor lined up. First NBC Bank all. So, please save the date: August the highlights of the night was the key- lead by its CEO Ashton Ryan Jr. and 10th and look for more detailed regis- note speech given by An Tanaiste, Ea- Vice Chairman David Anderson, a fel- tration information soon. mon Gilmore, the head of Ireland’s low Hibernian, have pledged a signifi- In the meantime, I hope you have Labor Party and the second highest cant amount of matching funds to a chance to relax and enjoy our sum- ranking executive in the Irish Govern- boost our fundraising efforts. This mer break. ment behind the . Minister project promises to be another special All the best, Gilmore referenced the bond between Hibernian contribution to the commu- Joe Casler Ireland and New Orleans and drew nity, so please stay tuned and be ready inspiration from New Orleans’ post to help when the time comes. Katrina resilience, noting that Ireland Finally, as we move into the sum- hopes to follow suit in recovery from mer months, it is important to note its economic woes. Our ongoing sup- that this year we will be holding an- port for Ireland was very evident that other State Convention. The Conven- night and throughout the entire month tion Committee, lead by John Fitz- of March. Indeed, it was a very spe- morris III and Jeremy Hughes, have cial month to be sure. selected the Hammond/Ponchatoula On another note, we have moved area as this year’s site. The tentative forward with incorporating the Louisi- date is Saturday, August 10th. The ana Hibernian Charity (LHC), which Tangipahoa Division will serve as hosts is now a registered nonprofit corpora- for the convention and I can assure

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We show all Your Favorite Games on our 46 TV's Great Food, Great Friends, Great Fun www.petesonjohnston.com 3903 Johnston St. Lafayette, LA 70503 337.981.4670 PAGE 4 THE CRESCENT HARP IN MEMORIAM MR. JAMES J. LYNCH Father of Brother Patrick Lynch Jr. MRS. MIRIAM HUERSTEL COATES Wife of Brother Ray Coates MR. JOSEPH MCDERMOTT Brother of Fr. Neal McDermott, O.P. and SPECIALIST CHRIS DRAKE Louisiana National Guard - Tickfaw, Louisiana Gave His Life in Afghanistan in Performance of His Duty

PRAYERS LITTLE MISS CLARE COOK Daughter of Brother Chris Cook BENJAMIN TOOD Friend of the Hibernians MR. GARY MURPHY Brother of Brother Steve Murphy SEAN LOUIS CALLAHAN Nephew of Brother Kevin Callahan GRANDSON OF BROTHER JOSEPH CRONIN ALL OUR FRIENDS IN MOORE, OKLAHOMA and ALL OF OUR MILITARY MEN AND WOMEN SERVING OVERSEAS VOLUME 4, ISSUE 3 PAGE 5 A HIBERNIAN REFLECTS ON HIS FIRST ST. PATRICK’S DAY IN NEW ORLEANS Fellow Brothers, marching to wait for the parade to con- As a new member to the Ancient tinue up ahead, people would waltz out Order of the Hibernians down here in into the street and start dancing or passing Louisiana, I was extremely excited to out beverages and food to complete take part in the St. Patrick’s Day festivi- strangers. In no other city could I picture ties that I have heard about for so long. this unusual breach of parade protocol Growing up in rural South Carolina, you being so casually accepted and reveled in do not find too many Catholics, and you as it was in New Orleans that day. The definitely do not have a tradition of Irish simple sense of companionship I felt from celebrations and culture. There are only the other brothers as we marched along three Catholic high schools in the whole was something that has really made an state after all. However, a significant impression on me, and I plan on continu- portion of my family also is from New ing to grow more and more involved with Orleans, and St. Patrick’s Day has always George Carr (center) was a Hibernian who transferred to the order as long as I can. been a big deal for them, so I have always New Orleans from South Carolina. He celebrated his first It really is great to know that there is a wanted to at least attend, let alone take St. Patrick’s Day in New Orleans this past year. community of people who are interested part in, a truly awesome St. Patrick’s in not just living as people who happen to Day parade. tions ended early and everyone who had have Irish heritage, but as people who have a Last year in Charleston, I went and driven to nearby Savannah to see the river genuine interest in furthering their knowl- watched as a meager band of six or seven pip- dyed green was back before two in the morn- edge of the struggles and triumphs of the Irish ers and a lone fire truck wound its way down ing. people as a whole, and who wish to pass on the main street to the small traditionally Irish When I think back on this and compare it traditions and customs that may very well neighborhood at the far end of the city. All to the experience I had this past St. Patrick’s otherwise be forgotten. Thank you all for a this was done to the polite clapping of a few Day, it seems hard to believe I ever truly great St. Patrick’s Day, and may next year be families with strollers and the sound of the celebrated it before. The community that I even better. Slainte! Catholic churches chiming their bells in the witnessed coming together, both the march- soft morning breeze. Were it not for myself ers and the spectators, was something so in- and a select few friends of a similar mind, credible and unique that I still do not know there would have been little festive activity exactly how to describe it. There was a spe- that evening. For the most part the celebra- cial feeling to it in that whenever we stopped NEW ORLEANS ROSE MAKES THE REGIONALS The Ladies Ancient Order of Hibernians, ter’s in Covington and the Academy of the Margaret Haughery Division is proud to an- Sacred Heart. nounce that the New Orleans Rose, Molly Her people come from County Clare and Molloy Gambel, has passed the Regionals in County . Ireland and will return to Ireland in August for the Finals in . Miss Gambel, The AOH wish Miss Gambel the very best as who graduated in May from the University of she represents Louisiana in Ireland! Alabama in Tuscaloosa, was born in New Orleans and lives in Covington. She gradu- ated from St. Scholastica Academy in Coving- ton, which is becoming fertile ground for future Roses, and grammar school at St. Pe-

CORRECTION

In the previous issue of The Crescent Harp, an article appeared about the Celtic Cross on the site of the New Ba- sin Canal. The article omitted the fact that the Irish Cultural Society of New Orleans was responsible for the erection of the Cross on Pontchartrain and West End. The writers and editors apologize for this omission and salute the ICSNO for its invaluable contribution to the Irish heritage of New Orleans. PAGE 6 THE CRESCENT HARP REPUBLIC OF WEST FLORIDA NEWS - AN AVENUE OF FLAGS FOR OUR VETERANS

Several years ago the American Legion Unit Order of Hibernians conducted a fund raiser “casket flag” on the new flag poles. 47 (the ladies auxiliary of post 47) started on May 17 to help fund the Avenue of The Republic of West Florida Division is erecting “casket flags” on national patriotic Flags. All the proceeds go to the Avenue of still taking donations, and anyone who would days. Casket flags are the flags that have been Flags. like to make a contribution to this cause to given to the surviving members of military help defray the cost of this project please veteran’s family. These flags drape the make your check payable to the Ancient casket of these brave men and women who Order of Hibernians. The cost of a single have given their time, and some have given flag pole for this project is $600. The their life, to protect this great country. Hibernians would like to raise sufficient About twenty-five flags were given to the funds to erect sixty-five flag poles down the Legion, and the ladies started erecting the center street in the Ponchatoula Ceme- flags. These flags were attached to a twenty tery. Anyone who donates this amount will -foot piece of galvanized pipe and the pipe An artist’s rendition of the planned Avenue of Flags be able to dedicate a flag pole in name of a is slipped into a plastic sleeve so the pipe in the Ponchatoula Cemetery. veteran of their choice. will stand upright. Today there are many At the event, the Ponchatoula High School For more information or to purchase tick- more flags, and many more lengths of galva- band played patriotic music, and the high ets, please contact Ronnie Crimmins at 985- nized pipe. The men and women that erect school Marine ROTC provided entertainment 386-0186 or Bruce Caliva at 985-386-6262. these flags are Korean war veterans and Viet- with a display of close order drill. Soprano Please consider supporting our Nation’s nam era veterans. Cynthia Davidson provided more patriotic veterans and those in your family by helping American Legion Post 47 and the Ancient singing, and several area’s decorated military with this endeavor. Order of Hibernians would like to make this veterans were on hand. During the evening task easier for these men and women who there was a special service to donate flags to gave so much for their county. The Ancient the American Legion, to fly a loved one’s

ACADIAN DIVISION NEWS - A GREAT NIGHT OF CRAWFISH AND CELTIC DANCING On Saturday, March 23, the Acadian Divi- ference from previous years past. They were The Crawfish Boil is also a solid indicator of sion of the Ancient Order of Hibernians held adequately spiced and plenty meaty enough to the strength of the Irish in the Lafayette Area its annual Crawfish Boil in Lafayette, and the satisfy any mudbug lover’s palate. Of course, and the leadership of the AOH by Acadian event was its usual overwhelming success. the beverages were overflowing to help alle- President Mark Foley, whom we salute along Because the event is becoming so popular, viate the occasional overload of spice in the with his Acadian brethren for their hard work the AOH had to move this year from its usual mouth. and ability to put on a great show and a mag- place at the Fatima KofC Hall to the larger The Acadian AOH Crawfish Boil provides nificent meal each year. Evangeline Shrine Club. Despite the change one of the most unique combinations of cul- of venue, the quality of the evening did not ture in all Hibernianism as the Irish-American diminish in the least. heritage of music and dance takes place along- Some of the more discriminating critics side the Acadian heritage of proper crawfish among the Acadian Hibernians said that the preparation and family celebration. Prior to crawfish were somewhat smaller than in pre- the entry of our guests of honor who were vious years; however, all those who enjoyed boiled special just for the occasion, patrons at their trays of crawfish did not report any dif- the party were entertained by the Shelia Ryan School of Dance, which includes young children in just the beginner stage to adult dancers who seemed to fly around the room. With an affordable cost and a loca- tion well within driving distance of New Orleans, it would seem a no- brainer that more Hibernians from the New Orleans, Tangipahoa, and St. Tammany Areas plan to attend this grand event in the coming years. VOLUME 4, ISSUE 3 PAGE 7 HISTORICAL MOMENT - UNCOVERING THE SCIENCE OF AN GORTA MOR From International Science Times "This strain was different from all the mod- the wind. Scientists have finally discovered the blight ern strains that we analyzed-most likely it is This is the first time the scientists have used that caused the Irish Potato Famine. new to science," said Sophien Kamoun, a co- dried herbarium samples to crack a plant While scientists have long known that the author of the study. He added that US-1 and pathogen's genome. pathogen Phytophthora infestans caused the mid HERB-1 are closely related. "The degree of DNA preservation in the -19th century famine, only now have they According to the study, which is to be pub- herbarium samples really surprised us," said identified the exact strain that led to the lished in eLIFE, HERB-1 originated in Mex- Johannes Krause from the University of roughly one million famine deaths. ico's Toluca Valley before spreading far and Tübingen, one of the study's co-authors. The long-held assumption in the scientific wide. The study's lead researcher, Kentaro Yo- community was that a strain of Phytophthora "The Spanish introduced Europeans to the shida, was similarly enthusiastic about the infestans called US-1 was behind the potato South American staple crop potato shortly effectiveness of studying century-old plants. famine. To verify that assumption, a team of after their conquest of the New World," the "Herbaria represent a rich and untapped researchers from the U.K., Germany and the authors write, "but for three centuries source from which we can learn a tremendous U.S. used dried plants from botanical gardens stayed free of P. infestans." amount about the historical distribution of and museums, and looked at the pathogens The authors believe that a strain of the plants and their pests--and also about the his- which felled them. They compared the patho- pathogen left Mexico at the turn of the 19th tory of the people who grew these plants," he gens of 11 dried potato samples, which were century, separating into HERB-1 and US-1. said. "This type of work paves the way for the over 100 years old, and compared them to 15 Seed potatoes with the pathogen crossed the discovery of many more treasures of knowl- modern pathogen strains. They found that the Atlantic from the U.S. to Belgium, according edge hidden in herbaria." pathogen responsible was a unique strain to the New York Times, at which point which they've dubbed HERB-1. spores of the pathogens spread far and wide in HIBERNIANS IN THE NEWS - HIBERNIAN “HOGS” AND HIBERNIANS “LESS HIRSUTE” HOGS FOR THE CAUSE out in City Park, enjoying some good pork, Cochon de lait, BBQ pork, pulled pork, short and maybe even putting together a team. ribs, etc., a true carnivore’s delight … and all of it to help in part to cure cancer. ST. BALDRICK’S DAY Among the entrants in the March 22-23, (photos on the bottom of Page 8) 201, contest was Hibernian John Lyons, Several Hibernians also took part in the whose team, “Baby Got Fatback” offered a March 23 celebration of St. Baldrick’s Day delightful pork shoulder for the patrons and held at Finn McCool’s. Conducted to help judges. raise money for childhood cancer research, HFTC began several years ago when a Finn’s raised almost $300,000 through the young high school teacher and football coach generous donations of numerous patrons who in Vermilion Parish named Drew Rodrigue contributed both money and their hair. passed away from brain cancer. Rodrigue, Brothers Perry McMenamin and Matthew who was from New Orleans, had been taking Toups were among those who went under the his own money to pay for equipment for his The purpose of Hogs For The Cause is to shears. In addition, Saints punter Thomas players. After his passing, Rodrigue’s friends provide aid and relief of those variable ex- Morestead was the featured “shavee” and organized a small barbecue competition to penses and economic burdens families face spent a good amount of time with all the pa- help his team get more equipment. What while their child is being treated for pediatric trons. began as a small but noble gesture on the part brain cancer. While the money devoted to The featured guest was Little Miss Lucy of a small group of friends has now blossomed pediatric cancer research is dwindling, there Boudreaux, who is undergoing treatment for to become one of the major fun events in the is an even bigger void in the variable expenses leukemia. In talking with her parents, it was New Orleans Area. Now more than a hun- associated with cancer treatment. It is the discovered that Miss Lucy is part Irish. While dred teams, which includes restaurants, com- goal of HFTC to fill this void. As a result of the Hibernians look forward to keeping her in pete to tickle the palates of pork lovers. the support and success HFTC has garnered in our prayers and thoughts and perhaps extend- Teams take great pride not just in their culi- past years, Hogs currently operates as a pre- ing to her whatever assistance we can render, nary offerings but in the decorative adorn- mier funding source for pediatric brain cancer we know that Lucy’s Irish spirit will eventu- ments on each of their booths. In addition, outreach services in the United States. ally win the day. great beer and music combine to make the The AOH Salutes Brother Lyons and en- event one of the feel-good moments of the courages all members to recover from the St. season. Patrick’s Day festivities next year by hanging PAGE 8 THE CRESCENT HARP REMEBERING ST. PATRICK’S DAY 2013 VOLUME 4, ISSUE 3 PAGE 9 REMEBERING ST. PATRICK’S DAY 2013

ST. PATRICK’S DAY 2013

SEE YOU IN 2014! PAGE 10 THE CRESCENT HARP AROUND THE IRISH COMMUNITY

IRISH CHANNEL ST. PATRICK’S DAY on the corner of Piety and Burgundy in the PARADE Ninth Ward and proceeded through the Every year since the late 1990s, the Ninth, Bywater, the Marigny, and finishing in Hibernians have been proud to be included as the French Quarter—stopping, of course, at one of the marching units in the Irish Channel several watering holes along the way for brief St. Patrick’s Day Parade. Founded in 1947, but beneficial “rests.” the parade organization now features more We salute the Downtown Irish Club for than 1500 of its own marchers and a variety continuing an excellent tradition among the of marching groups, pipers, and floats with Irish community of the Ninth Ward and the riders throwing a variety of “Irish produce.” Bywater and look forward to closer work Among the unique aspects of the parade with them in the coming years. is that its members go through a sort of “training session” in order to prepare for the IN-NOLA NEWS parade. Thus, the Channel marchers hold a On Sunday, March 24, the Irish Network practice parade a week before in the French - New Orleans concluded the St. Patrick’s Quarter. Day activities with its second annual Family However, the most unique (and perhaps Fun Day at Audubon Park. Food, music, face most Irish) aspect of this parade is that its painting, and a variety of games took place The legendary Irish warrior, Finn McCool, encour- mustering place is within not one but two ages children to pick up the rope and pull to victory in under crystal clear skies for the second churches. The officers, maids, honorees, and the tug-of-war at the IN-NOLA Family Fun Day. straight year. parade queen first gather in the sanctuary of The Muggavin and McTeggart Dancers old St. Alphonsus Church (now no longer shals Robert “Bobby” O’Neal Jr., Ryan gave the crowd a wonderful time as they used for Mass) to take pictures in its crum- O’Neal, Bernard Smith Sr., Bernard Smith were light on their feet. The highlight of the bling but still beautiful sanctuary. Then Jr., Larry Hecker, Tony Cinquemano, and day was when the mythical Irish warrior Finn they—along with most of the membership— Herbie Kimble. McCool made his appearance for the tug-of- proceed into St. Mary’s Assumption Church This year’s Irish Channel Court was Jes- war competition. After inspiring the children across the street from St. Alphonsus. The sica West, Kelli Doles, Sarah Rose Haggerty, to pull their hearts out, the great warrior then two churches were built by the Redemptorist Natalie Malone, and Sophia Leonard. This challenged all the young kids to a game of tug priests to minister to the German-speaking year’s queen was Kayleigh Denny. -of-war. Once again, the kids emerged tri- (St. Mary’s) and the Irish (St. Alphonsus) Despite the years of decline and change umphant over Finn, but Finn vowed that al- communities. (A third church one block in the Channel, the organization has survived though lost, he was not beaten and would down, Notre Dame de Bon Secours, minis- and this year, plans to parade with the largest make yet another return the following year. tered to the French but it burned down sev- membership ever (fourteen hundred plus). ANNUAL GALA eral decades ago.) The organization credits its survival to their IN-NOLA also conducted its annual gala The Irish Channel St. Patrick's Day Com- deep, strong roots. While the top root is Irish at Gallier Hall in March. An Tánaiste Eamon mittee was organized in the Irish Channel in Heritage, many of it's members feel an even Gilmore was the featured guest and also fea- 1947. The current president of the organiza- stronger bond, just being from or associated tured music from Aine O’Doherty. tion is Richard (Dick) Burke, Jr. (son and with, the Irish Channel. nephew of two of the organizers; Dick and (Thanks to Dick Burke and the Irish Channel Site GAELIC FOOTBALL CLUB BEGINS Paul Burke ). Brother Burke is the Past State for the information.) The New Orleans Irish Channel Gaelic President of the AOH. Football Club is had its first ever Gaelic foot- Each year, the organization chooses an DOWNTOWN IRISH CLUB HOLDS ITS ball match on April 20. The game took place aspect of Irish or Irish-American culture to PARADE at the Rugby Pitch in Gretna where they place on a parade medallion. Past medallions At the same time that the Hibernians played the Houston Fenians. The game was a have honored St. Michael’s Special School, gather in the Sheraton on the evening of St. great occasion that was filled with family, fun, Sr. Lillian McCormick, and the New Basin Patrick’s Day, another great Irish-American sport, music and craic! The day included the Canal. In 2013, the Irish Channel Club fea- New Orleans tradition comes to a close al- game, a kid's kick around, and a longest slio- tured on its medallion. Gal- most directly across the street. tar hurling contest. After a tough match, all way is a county in the western part of Ireland The Downtown Irish Club of New Or- players and supporters gathered at The Irish and is known for its unique Irish character. leans has been holding its parade since 1976. House where all enjoyed a traditional Irish This year’s Grand Marshal was AOH This year’s Grand Marshal, Wayne Softley, music session upstairs and Jacqui Sandor Brother Robert “Bobby” O’Neal Sr., and the and Man of the Year Michael “Mike in the downstairs. Man of the Year was Floyd Hyer. Both men Morning” Costello, started the parade at its were accompanied by Honorary Grand Mar- traditional mustering point at Bud Rip’s Bar VOLUME 4, ISSUE 3 PAGE 11 VETERANS AFFAIRS - WWII IRISH “DESERTERS” FINALLY GET PARDONS

By Chris Buckler BBC News ernment apologized for the way they were Paddy Reid Jr. said his father could not get In Ireland's War Memorial Gardens, the treated. Shatter announced the details of a a job for years after returning to Ireland. In dates of both world wars are carved into the pardon during a debate in Ireland's parlia- his house, Paddy Reid has a letter from a sol- stone of a monument, but this country re- ment, the Dail. The legislation was passed dier who served in the Irish Army during the mained neutral in the conflict between 1939 and signed into law by the Irish president war years. In it, the former officer criticizes and 1945. In order to fight in World War II, within days. the way the deserters were treated after thousands of soldiers left the country and the The bill also granted an amnesty and immu- 1945, but he says within the country's forces Irish Army to join the British forces. nity from prosecution to the almost 5,000 there was anger at their decision. They became known as “deserters” - a title Irish soldiers who fought alongside the allies. They believed that every soldier was intended to carry shame. And when they re- Campaigners say only a handful of men are needed to ensure Ireland was able to defend turned after battle many were treated as any- still alive, but it is a victory for their long bat- itself against the threat of invasion. However, thing but heroes. In Paddy Reid's home there tle to ensure the troops' service is properly the punishment the former troops faced had are pictures of his father Paddy senior serving recognized. an effect on their whole families in peacetime. alongside British troops in Burma. For years "It might be an historical issue for the poli- "My dad could not find work for many they remained in the attic largely ignored. ticians, but not for the families," Peter Mul- years - in fact his first real job was not until "I am sure when my dad came back he did- vany, coordinator of the Irish Soldiers Par- 1961," said Mr. Reid, who became visibly n't feel ashamed but he may have been made dons Campaign, said. upset as he remembered what happened dec- to feel that," Mr. Reid said. "I was told as a "It will be a recognition that the experience ades ago. "My mother was the one who kid - your father is a traitor, you should be they went through post-war was unfair. It really carried the stress of trying to survive on ashamed of him. was a punishment that they should not have almost nothing. It was tough trying to bring “There was no relief, no sense of a job been given. up kids with no money and abuse at the same done... It was pretty oppressive in this coun- "This amnesty, this exoneration will re- time. It was a whole lifetime of defending try." move that stigma." your dad." Deserters were found guilty of going absent The soldiers were, of course, always proud In Ireland, time has brought a new perspec- without leave by a military tribunal. Their of having played a part in the battle against tive to the actions of the men dismissed as punishment came after the war when many of Nazi Germany, but leaving one army to join 'deserters'. Their families hope that the par- the soldiers headed home to Ireland. They another was controversial in the 1940s. The don will mean in future they are remembered were barred from holding jobs paid for by the relationship between the relatively recent only with honor. state, they lost their pension rights and many Irish Free State and Britain was strained, and faced discrimination. there was a practical reason for people to be Defence Minister announced upset - many felt the men were needed at the pardon for the soldiers, and the Irish gov- home. VETERANS AFFAIRS - TINY IRISH TOWN HONORS AMERICAN WAR DEAD by Kenneth Haynes, IrishCentral.com This was the first such commemorative church service that the men being honored A little Irish town has honored 10 of its occasion in Ireland, and with the flying of had "served with great pride and honor." citizens who served as U.S. soldiers buried in American and Irish flags, Knocknagoshel had After the ceremony local women served over its tiny graveyard. “taken its place among the nations of the 400 who took part in the ceremonies in a The village of Knocknagoshel in Kerry has earth,” local organizer Liam Lynch said. He local hall. close links with America and a U.S. Embassy was referring to a famous banner supporting The ten people honored on Saturday were: military attaché was on hand as the 10 locals Charles Stewart Parnell in the 1890s which Denis Browne, U.S. Army, Korea, died who proudly wore the American uniform in read, “Arise Knocknagoshel and take your 1980; Michael Browne, U.S. Army, Korea, different wars were remembered. place among the nations of the earth.” The died 1978; John Moynihan, U.S. Army, Sec- A retired major in the U.S. Army Rico slogan became known worldwide . ond World War, died 1993; Thomas Mur- Stein, who was present, said it was vital to Also attending were U.S. defense attaché to phy, died 1967; Jeremiah T O’Connor, U.S. mark the sacrifices of those Irish who fought Ireland, Lt. Col. Shawn Purvis, the American Army, died 1969; Jack (John) O’Connor, in American wars. “It’s like a mini-Arlington Legion veterans’ organization and the Irish U.S. Navy, died 1978; Michael D O’Connor, cemetery here,” he told . “The Organization of National Ex-Servicemen/ U.S. Army, First World War, died 1979; people buried here have never really been women. Philip P. O’Connor, U.S. Army, First World recognized.” Relatives of the deceased laid U.S. flags on War, died 1979; Tim (Thady) John O’Con- More than 100 people gathered on the hill- the gravestones and the last post was played as nor, U.S. Army, First World War, died top ceremony, which was followed by a Mass well as an Irish lament. Father Eoin Mangan, 1976; and Thomas J. O’Rourke, U.S. Air and the trooping of the colors. parish priest of Knocknagoshel, stated at the Force, Vietnam, died 1985. PAGE 12 THE CRESCENT HARP VOLUME 4, ISSUE 3 PAGE 13 UPCOMING EVENTS IN THE IRISH-AMERICAN COMMUNITY

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The Ancient Order of Hibernians is proud to have ARC Document Solutions producing this copy of The Crescent Harp.

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Adrian is a partner with the law firm of Shields Mott Lund LLP. Adrian’s primary area of practice is commercial liti- gation, specializing in construction litigation. Adrian is the Chairman of the New Orleans Bar Association’s Construc- tion Committee. Adrian is also involved in the growing practice associated with Green Building and has obtained the LEED “Green Associate” designation. Adrian graduated cum laude from Loyola Law School (New Orleans) in 2004. Adrian was born in City in Ireland but had the benefit of being raised in beautiful . He attended University College Dublin and obtained his B.A.(Hons)in Economics from UCD in 1990. After graduating, Adrian moved to New York where he spent eight years in restaurant management with the Smith & Wollensky Restaurant Group. In 1998 Adrian opened the New Orleans’ Smith & Wollensky restaurant and enrolled in law school two years later. Adrian attended law school at night while working in Smith & Wollensky. Adrian is a founding member of Irish Network New Orleans and is both an officer and board member of Irish Net- work USA, currently serving as IN USA’s National Events Director. He has been a member of the Ancient Order of Hibernians since 1998 and has been an active member of the Irish Channel St. Patrick's Day Club in New Orleans since 1999. Adrian is also committed to promoting youth soccer in New Orleans and currently is the commissioner of the Carrollton Booster spring soccer program and a Carrollton Booster board member.

Adrian had the fortune to meet a good Dublin girl, Karen, while in UCD. After graduating UCD in 1992, Karen moved to New York and they married in 1997. Karen is also a member of Irish Network New Orleans and is president of UCD’s Alumni group in Louisi- ana. Adrian and Karen have two wonderful children; Grainne and Conor who now have burgeoning southern accents. Adrian is committed to IN-New Orleans harnessing the goodwill and energy of the diverse Irish Community in the city to promote Irish cultural aware- ness in the city and to promote New Orleans to the sister Irish Networks, the North American Irish Community, and the country of Ireland.

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