The Holyoke Caledonian Pipe Band performs as the St. Patrick’s Committee of Holyoke is honored in the City Council chambers.
Photo credit: Holyoke Media
HOLYOKE — Before the Holyoke St. Patrick’s Parade Weekend took place, the Holyoke City Council invited the St. Patrick’s Committee of Holyoke and 2025 award winners to be recognized during its March 18 meeting.
Holyoke Grand Colleen Moira Catherine Reardon was also in attendance with her court members, including Erin Marie Gauthier, Abigail Katherine Huebner, Maura Catherine Joseph and Erin Frances O’Donnell.
The Holyoke Caledonian Pipe Band, a Holyoke-based band since 1910, started the meeting out with a brief performance before the committee was recognized.
Running the meeting was City Councilor Kevin Jourdain who talked about the commitment of the committee and his excitement to “recognize the great work of so many on the parade, both the colleen, our award winners and other dignitaries.”
Ancient Order of Hibernians President Joe O’Connor and The Ladies Ancient Order of Hibernians President Mary Kate O’Connor were also there to congratulate the recipients.
The Ancient Order of Hibernians first charted in the city of Holyoke in 1850. They are an Irish Catholic organization that promotes friendship, unity and Christian charity among its members and assists other organizations.
It was announced that Sheryl DuPont was named lady of the year, Dan Murphy was named man of the year and Owen Donahue is the Christian award recipient.
The 2025 Holyoke St. Patrick’s Parade President John Beaulieu recognized award winners this year including Grand Marshal James Lavelle, Citizenship Award recipient Fr. Robert Gentile, Thomas Rohan Award recipient Devin Sheehan, George E. O’Connell award recipient Jeff Walsh and Daniel J. Gallivan award recipient James Meenaghan.
Beaulieu also briefly talked about his appreciation for the committee and all the work they have done leading up to parade weekend.
He said, “They gave me a well-rounded team that I am proud to lead down the street of Holyoke. Again, a French kid from Chicopee leading an Irish parade in Holyoke. Thank you very much.”
The 48th annual road race took place on March 22 and the 72nd annual Holyoke St. Patrick’s Day parade took place on March 23.
