From: St. Patrick’s Day Parade, Inc.
Contact: Julie Robinson / 212-843-9341 / jrobinson@rubenstein.com
For Immediate Release
BROOKLYN YOUTH WHO RECEIVED SASH LOOKS FORWARD
TO ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE AND HONORS IRISH HERITAGE
New York, NY February 26th, 2017 – Brooklyn’s Denis Doherty, 20, who was given an official St. Patrick’s Day Parade sash in a spontaneous act of kindness last year, treasures his souvenir and plans to wear it when he attends this year’s parade.
“It hangs up on my wall now. It makes me so happy,” said Denis, of Marine Park.
Last year, Denis and his mother, Katherine Doherty, were having some difficulty getting across Fifth Avenue because of Denis’ mild cerebral palsy. Dr. Patrick J. Delamere, chairman of the parade’s Line of March Committee, came to their assistance and because of Denis’ spirit, gave him his own sash.
“I can’t wait to go to the parade again this year. I love watching the counties march, especially Donegal!” Denis said.
Dating from 1762, the New York City St. Patrick’s Day Parade, begins at 44th Street and proceeds up Fifth Avenue to 79th street in Manhattan on March 17, starting at 11 a.m. The parade honors St. Patrick, the Patron Saint of Ireland and of the Archdiocese of New York.
Limerick native Michael J. Dowling, president and chief executive officer of Northwell Health, is Grand Marshal in the 2017 parade. The parade will be broadcast live on WNBC-TV 4, and live-streamed on nbcnewyork.com.
When looking back on past parades, the Doherty family has fond memories.
“We have been going to the parade for a long time. I marched for many years, and now my nephew, Patrick participates,” Katherine said.
Katherine participated in the parade through the Telephone & Communications Emerald Society, and Patrick Doherty currently marches with The Department of Sanitation Emerald Society.
While the parade is something that the Doherty family looks forward to every year, their Irish heritage also influences their everyday lives.
Katherine is a devoted member of the Ancient Order of Hibernians, the oldest and largest Irish-Catholic organization in the U.S, where she helps to organize many Catholic events. Her son, Denis, plans to become a member this year.
“I’m excited to join the AOH. I want to learn more about the history and I love a good Irish song,” Denis said.
The Doherty’s involvement in the Irish community does not stop in the U.S. Last year, the Doherty’s took their first family trip to Ireland together.
“We stayed in Donegal at my Mom’s old home, where a lot of my family still lives. When we go back this year, we are going to explore the other cities too,” Kathie said.
Denis and Katherine visiting Slieve League in County Donegal, Ireland.
About St. Patrick’s Day Parade
The New York City St. Patrick’s Day Parade®, which began in 1762, marches up Fifth Avenue every year on March 17th in honor of St. Patrick, the Patron Saint of Ireland and of the Archdiocese of New York.