Presidents Report

Denis Mulcahy awarded 2018 AOH John F. Kennedy Memorial Award

Division 1 member Denis Mulcahy, founder of Project Children, was awarded the John F. Kennedy Memorial Medal, the highest award of recognition bestowed by the Ancient Order of Hibernians, at the 2018 AOH National Convention in Louisville, Kentucky.

Project Children was founded in 1975 by Denis Mulcahy. In addition to being a Hibernian, Denis was a member of the New York Police Department Bomb Squad. After watching too many news accounts of violence, the Cork native reasoned that if Protestant and Catholic children could spend time together in an environment that was not toxic with war, they would be less likely as adults to hurl bombs at each other, and Project Children was born.

That first summer, he and his wife Miriam brought six children, three Protestant and three Catholic, to spend the summer with them in their home in New York State.

Division 1 hosted a movie that told the Project Children story, “How to Defuse a Bomb,” in April of last year at the Monroe movie theater. It was so well attended, we had to do two showings of it and over 600 people attended the movie screening.

Project Children was in existence for 40 years and ended in 2015. Over its life, the program brought 22,000 children from Northern Ireland to spend the summer with 1,500 host families in the United States.

Denis has also been nominated for the Noble Peace Prize three times.

Congratulations to Brother Denis Mulcahy on his receipt of this well-deserved award.

Sepetember 2017

County President – Edmond Burke - Report

Football Raffle was successful. Thanks to all who helped and special thanks to Past President of Division 1, George Anderson for securing raffle tickets and Army Football tickets. Kevin Carolan of Montgomery won the football raffle.

AOH Orange County Board Picnic September 16, 2017 Update: Great food, Warm, sunny day; about 100 attended; AOH Pipe and Drums appearance. Very generous response to Hurricane Harvey and Irma appeal from national collection - 50/50 at picnic raised $300!

Mid-Hudson St. Patrick’s Parade Irish Day September 23, 2017, 12:00 – 5:00 at Washingtonville Knights of Columbus Hall. Set up for Irish Day will be Saturday at 9:00-9:30 am.

Metro Conference on September 30, 2017 at Division #2 at 900 am. Help needed at hall, contact Ed Burke if you can assist. The AOH Metropolitan Conference is a group of organizations affiliated with the NYC St. Patrick’s Day Parade that monitors the management of the Parade’s board of directors. Division 2 will host the next meeting on Saturday, Sept. 30th at 10:30 am. Attendance is expected to be high, and we are asking for help from the membership.

Annual Orange County Communion Breakfast sponsored by Division #2 (date TBA) will be held in Monroe with Mass at St Anastasia with Father Keene; Details to follow.

District 8 –Kevin Moore- Report

Congratulations to Kevin Cummings and Keith Reynolds for receiving the Commodore John Barry medal in recognition of their dedicated service to the NY State Board. Many thanks to outgoing president Tom McDonald and best wishes to incoming president Edmond Burke and all newly elected county officers. Best of luck to New York Rose Sinead Kirnan who will be competing in the Rose of Tralee Festival in Tralee. The Division 1 brothers did another great job on their Celtic Festival at Palaia Winery. Division 2 hosted their Day at the Races bus trip to Saratoga on July 26th. Division 4 held their Golf Outing on August 4th. The County will host their picnic September 16th from 1-5PM at Division 2 Hall in Cornwall.

Brothers,

It has certainly been a busy summer. Here is the result of the election of AOH National officers from the Convention in Harrah’s in Atlantic City, N.J.;

President Hon. James F. McKay III – New Orleans, LA

Vice President Daniel O’Connell – Girard, OH

Secretary Jere E. Cole, Jr. - Roseland, NJ

Treasurer Sean Pender – Hamilton, NJ

Directors

Daniel Dennehy – Cortlandt Manor, NY

Liam McNabb – Delmar, NY Director Area: NY

Tommy O’Donnell – Philadelphia, PA Director Area: PA-NJ

Dennis Parks – Akron, OH Director Area: OH-VA-WV-MD-DE-DL-MI

William Sullivan – North Andover, MA Director Area: ME-MA-NH-VT-RI-CT

John Wilson – St Peters, MO Director Area: MO-IL-IN-KS-NE-MT-IA-OK

The AOH National convention held in Atlantic City resulted in not only a new slate of National Offers but a positive result for our State of New York. The election of Dan Dennehy and Liam McNabb as National Directors gives the State a strong voice in the operation of the AOH. Both Liam and Dan have been proven to be leaders when it comes to be a Hibernian.

Congratulations to NYS President, Tim Mc Sweeney, for his appointment as National Organizer. John O'Connell who was reappointed as National Editor, Dan Dennehy who was reappointed Chairman of Immigration, Neil Cosgrove who was reappointed as National Political Education, Anti-Defamation and Irish Heritage Month Chairman, Mike Mc Cormack who was reappointed National Historian and Jeff Nisler who remains as National Webmaster. Congratulations to Tom Beirne who was appointed Hibernian Hunger Project Chairman.

Information on upcoming events of interest;

Dominican College is pleased to present the Eileen Ivers Band on Friday, September 30th at 8:00pm in the Hennessy Center of Dominican College Tickets must be purchased in advance for AOH pricing. Please email specialevents@dc.edu or call Mary Lichtman Director of Special Events at 845-848-7406.

Saturday November 5, 2016 is the NYS AOH Fall 2016 Meeting, the AOH Board meeting is scheduled for Saturday, November 5th at 10 a.m.

A Testimonial Dinner to honor Timothy McSweeney, President, New York State AOH is planned for Saturday, November 5, 2016 at the Hilton Albany, 40 Lodge Street, Albany. The dinner will also be the occasion for the presentation of the 2016 NYS AOH Burns-Hayes Award to James Kelly of Joseph Duelk Jr., AOH Division 1, Orange County.

Dinner Tickets are $100 and include choice of entrée, salad, dessert and a three hour open bar. Please see the dinner registration form for additional information. http://www.nyaoh.com/andie/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/McSweeney-Testimonial-Dinner-Flyer-Form.pdf The RSVP deadline for the dinner is October 28th.

A special hotel room rate has been secured members and friends for Friday, Nov. 4th and Saturday, Nov. 5th at $139/night (tax not included). For reservations, please call 866-691-1183 and use Code: 1AOH. For additional hotel information and directions visit www.hiltonalbany.com/ For more information, please contact Liam McNabb, Event Chair, at liammcnabb@hotmail.com or at 518-489-1752.

The next NY Metro Conference Fall 2016 Meeting to be held on Saturday October 15, 2016. This meeting is going to be held in their new home of AOH Division 21 located at 4 Roxbury Blvd, Roxbury, NY. The meeting will be starting promptly at 11:00 AM

Tara Court Major Degree Team will hold the next Major Degree on Saturday, October 15, 2016, in Suffolk County. It will be held at the American Legion Post 360, 1 Mill Dam Road, Huntington, New York 11743. Candidates should arrive by 11:00 AM for registration. The Major Degree will commence at Noon.

The 141st AOH/LAOH Queens County Dinner Dance is going to take place on Friday October 21st, 2016 Please Contact John J. Manning, President AOH Queens County, NY Cell: (917) 589-0047 for information

January 27, 2017, is the date for the March for Life. Signup sheets will be available at the Division meetings. To help offset the expenses they are asking each person committing to travel to D.C. to donate $20 to defray the cost of the bus, and those who are not able to make the trip are asked to contribute $10 for the same purpose. Surplus revenue will be directed to the purchase of ultrasound machines for pregnancy centers, the use of which has had a great effect on woman Choosing Life, rather than aborting their babies.

Preparations for the 2017 NY AOH/LAOH Convention in Buffalo are also proceeding. The dates for the Convention are Wednesday July 12 through Saturday July 15, 2017. Hotel Reservations for the Convention may now be made by contacting the Adams Mark Hotel at 716-845-5100. Rates are $139 per night plus 13.75% tax, and include parking and WiFi. The convention rates will be honored for three days prior and three days after the Convention dates. They have secured the use of St. Joseph’s Cathedral (across from the hotel) for the opening and closing Masses. More information will follow.

President Quarterly Report April - June 2016

With the St. Patrick’s Season coming to a close. I wish to thank everyone for their support by not only helping with the Mid-Hudson St. Patrick’s Day Parade but thank those who marched in both the Mid-Hudson and the NYC St. Patrick’s Parades. Someone stated that perhaps not getting a Parade Sail in time for the St. Patrick’s New York City parade was a good thing with the uncertainty of the future of the NYC St. Patrick’s Parade and perhaps the monies could be spent for something else. I personally feel having a parade sail in one parade only, is shortsighted to say the last. Having it for any parade, whether the NYC or our local celebration of St. Patrick’s Day parade will perhaps inspire the County to march in regional or state parades.

This year we will continue to celebrate our Irish Heritage with the anniversary of the Easter Rising. Programs are available throughout the area. The LAOH Board will hold an event on Sunday, April 10th 1:00 pm, K of C Hall, 18 Hallock Drive, Washingtonville, to honor the brave women involved in the 1916 Easter Rising. Guest speakers include Mike McCormack, AOH National Historian & author of "The Road to Rebellion", Mary Hogan, LAOH National President and Regina Begley, LAOH NYS Irish Historian. For tickets: https://1916-2016-women-of-the-Easter-rising.eventbrite.com

The National Ancient Order of Hibernians in America will celebrate the Centenary of the Easter Rising in New York City on April 23, 2016, with a Mass at St. Patrick’s Cathedral. A piped procession will follow from the cathedral to the plaza on Park Avenue where the office of the Consul General is located. There will be a reading of the Proclamation and speeches to commemorate the 100 year Anniversary.

At the last Board meeting, I suggested we attempt to rise monies as income is limited to dues and a small profit from the County Picnic. I asked for a vote to purchase car magnets to support out law enforcement and display our AOH logo. The magnets are available at both Division1 and 2 halls. I plan to attend future meetings to help raise support of this project.

John Manning our AOH NY State Treasurer attended the Mid-Hudson St. Patrick’s Day Celebrations and marched with the AOH Orange County members in the Parade. John, while running for the officer of State Treasure asked the County for our support and we stood behind him. Now he is standing with us not only by marching with us but by being involved as a concerned representative of the NYC St. Patrick’s Parade Affiliated Organizations. This along with the Duties of the State Treasurer and Queens County President we wish to thank him for all that he does.

Brother James Kelly was selected as the recipient of the Burns-Hayes award for 2016. The following is the letter of nomination from his Division:

Burns-Hayes Award 2016—Brother James Kelly, AOH Division 1, Orange County NY

The Burns-Hayes Award recognizes an individual who espouses the causes and ideals of the Ancient Order of Hibernians.

The Men of Orange County New York Division 1 hereby nominate a Brother of the Order about whom this can truly be said.

Mr. James Kelly, who recently became a Life Member of our Order, was born in Wicklow County, Ireland, in February, 1939. After serving in the Irish Army, he emigrated into the United States, and served our Country as a member of the 82nd Airborne. He resides in Chester, New York.

Brother Kelly joined our Order in 1978. He served as President of Division 1 in 1996 and 1997, District 8 Director from 1992 to 1994, and President of the County Board in Orange County NY from 2001 to 2005. He also served as County Historian from 1990 to 2014, was Chairman of the County By-laws Committee, and initiated the Seamus Comisky Memorial Shamrock Degree Team in Orange County NY in 2004, serving as its coordinator from that year to 2014.

Brother Kelly also founded the Thomas Fleming Scholarship Fund and served as Chairman of the Scholarship Committee from 2001 to 2013. The Fleming Scholarship Fund has benefited numerous children and grandchildren of AOH members and continues today.

In addition to his service to the AOH as one of its pre-eminent and productive leaders, he also joined the Orange County AOH Pipes and Drums. His service began in 1978, when he was initiated as a Piper, and continued as he rose through the leadership ranks of The Old Brigade, as Pipe Sergeant from 1982 to 1997, and as Pipe Major from 1997 to 2001. Brother Kelly was a born teacher of the pipes, not only instructing new members of the AOH Pipe Band, but also West Point Cadets at the US Military Academy from 1991 to 1996, where he was awarded the SGM Jack Harris Award for his efforts. His 36 year career as a piper serves as an example to young band members, and Brother Kelly continues to serve the AOH performing at numerous functions to this day.

In 1992, Brother Kelly was selected as Grand Marshal of the Mid-Hudson St. Patrick’s Parade in Goshen, NY.

As can be seen in Brother Kelly’s history above, he exemplifies the kind of Hibernian the Burns-Hayes Award is meant to recognize—a Brother who has not only participated in our Order, but made it better by his membership and truly espouses its causes and ideals. I will close with Brother Kelly’s own words from his Life Membership application: “Sharing my knowledge of the AOH Constitution and By-Laws with new members of our respective Division and County. Imparting the history of the Irish and the Irish American People and the contributions they made over many centuries as immigrants, their hardships, rejections and sufferings. And, of course, on a positive note, the many accomplishments they contributed to their adopted country…I enjoyed every minute of it.”

GWA

George W. Anderson

President Quarterly Report Jan - March 2016

On Sunday, October 18th held our annual Orange County AOH Communion Breakfast. Attendance was well attended, followed by breakfast and speaker at Division 1 Hall.

Brother James Kelly Received AOH National Life Membership at County Board meeting. In attendance NY State President Tim McSweeney and Albany County President John McCarthy

Ten copies of the book entitled “The Road to Rebellion” by AOH Historian Mike McCormack were donated to the Goshen Public Library and Historical Society by the Orange County Board of the Ancient Order of Hibernians. Joseph D. Duelk, Jr Division 1 donated several books to the Monroe Public Library.

The John F. Kennedy Division 1 Schenectady Major Degree Team (MDT) conferred the Major Degrees of the Order on Sunday, January 31, 2016 in the Fr. Henry Tansey, Division 5 Hall in Albany. AOH County had five candidates make their Major Degree. Congratulations to Brothers Sean Cummings, John Green, Dennis and Joe Abrams and Bob Heppes.

Division 1 plans a AOH Junior Division membership drive at the two area Catholic High Schools of John S. Burke High School and Dom Bosco Preparatory High School, both being private Roman Catholic Schools that believe and support Catholic Education for our children or grandchildren.

Happenings at the Division 1 - Monthly “Night at the Races” held to benefit the Fleming Memorial Scholarship Fund which benefits the children of their Division.

Happenings at the Division 2 Every Monday Night...Children's Step Dancing Lessons - Open to the public. Hibernian Hall - 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm. Going on now...Friday Night = Fun Night! 5:00 till 11:00 pm. Gourmet specials - hamburgers, hot dogs, pizza. For more information on any event, call the Hibernian Hall at 845-534-2528.

March 5 7:00 pm - 12 Midnight Division 2 - St. Patrick's Dinner Dance - Anthony's Pier 9. Tickets $70 p/p includes cocktail hour, formal/sit down dinner and a 5 hour open bar. Music by the Chris Turpin Band, Hudson Valley Regional Police Pipes and Drums, McLaughlin-Early School of Irish Dance.

March 6 2:00 pm AOH Orange County Board - Quarterly meeting. Division 2 Hall, Cornwall. All division/county members are encouraged to attend.

Spring 2016

1:00 pm, K of C Hall, 18 Hallock Drive, Washingtonville, to honor the brave women involved in the 1916 Easter Rising. Guest speakers include Mike McCormack, AOH National Historian & author of "The Road to Rebellion", Mary Hogan, LAOH National President and Regina Begley, LAOH NYS Irish Historian. For tickets: https://1916-2016-women-of-the-easter-rising.eventbrite.com

At the last Board meeting, I suggested we attempt to rise monies as income is limited to dues and a small profit from the County Picnic. I asked for a vote to purchase car magnets to support our law enforcement and display our AOH logo. The magnets are available at both Division1 and 2 halls. I plan to attend future meetings to help raise support of this project.

October - November

Our annual Halfway to St. Patrick’s Day Family Picnic was held on Saturday, September 19th at Fr. Donald J. Whelan - Division 2, Irish Cultural Center. Turnout was good as the weather was perfect. I want to thank the Division Presidents and everyone who worked at the event to make it a success.

I attended the AOH National Board Meeting and President’s Testimonial Dinner on October 3^rd in Suffern, NY. Handouts from the meeting were sent to all Divisions and I will discuss the Interim Convention at our December meeting. Of importance is the State Treasurer’s report and AOH National providing a blanket exemption to all State, County and Division Boards however EVERY BOARD IS REQUIRED TO HAVE THEIR OWN EIN NUMBER AND TO FILE THEIR OWN TAXES. The AOH is exempt from federal income tax however donations to the AOH are not tax deductible.

The OC Board meeting at Division 1 is December 6th at 2 PM, 1 PM for officers.

I attended a Division meeting at Division 1 on October 9^th. President Anderson discussed the issues with the upcoming parade. He also suggested the Division purchase several copies of “The Road to Rebellion” and plan donate several copies to Monroe library. The book presents meaningful and accurate representations of the Easter Rising of 1916 in conjunction with the centennial of that milestone in Irish history.

At the recent NY State Board meeting it was stated that we can’t educate others about the Rising unless we educate ourselves first. “The Road to Rebellion” By Mike McCormack AOH National/NY State Historian is available and the cost is only $15. Copies can be ordered by mail by sending a check to 37 Harrison Ave, Centereach, NY 11720. I encourage other Divisions to consider following President Anderson and donate to local libraries and schools.

Orange County, Ancient Order of Hibernians, Communion Mass and Breakfast

Sunday, October 18, 2015

Mass: 9:30am (gather at 9:15am)

Sacred Heart Chapel

151 Stage Road, Monroe

Breakfast to follow at Division 1 hall:

Catering of Irish breakfast by Rambler’s Rest.

$10 per person over age 8 at the door.

Speaker:

Carien Gereghty NY State Freedom for All Ireland Chairman from Div. 5 in Albany. He will discuss 1916 and the upcoming centenary

Brother Steve Gibbons (Division 1) is organizing a class by a certified instructor. The class is six hours long and at a discount with lunch and beverages included. Please pass to your members, the discount applies to everyone, members and their families (even the grand children who drive). He needs at least 15 students and not more than 35. This six-hour AAA Driver Improvement Program can earn you (the principal vehicle operator) a 10 percent discount on collision, liability and no-fault insurance. The discount is good for three years. Defensive driving course completion also earns you a reduction of up to four points on your driver's license record. Points may be reduced only once in any 18-month period.

November 11, 2015 at 9:00AM at the AOH Hall

10 North St. Monroe NY

$20:00 AARP Members

$25:00 Non-Members

Food and Beverages

Save money on your car insurance, not limited to seniors

Anyone can come!

Contact: Gibbons75@gmail.com or Steve 726-0855

Division 2 is planning a bus trip to New York City on Thursday, November 19th to visit the Irish Hunger Memorial (http://bpcparks.org/whats-here/parks/irish-hunger-memorial ) and National 9/11 Memorial (http://www.911memorial.org). The bus will depart the parking lot of the Hall at 10 am and bring you to lower Manhattan. First stop will be the Hunger Memorial, then the 9/11 Memorial. There will also be time to stop and have something to eat. The cost for the bus and admission to the 9/11 Memorial is $50. Coffee and donuts will be provided at the Hall before we leave.

Since the 9/11 Memorial tickets sell out quickly, they ask that you contact John Greehy (845-857-5177) as soon as possible if you would like to attend. Prepayment is necessary.

Thursday, November 19^th

John Greehy (845-857-5177)

The cost for the bus and admission to the 9/11 Memorial is $50.

Pre-payment is necessary.

Upcoming Events

Division 1

Sunday, December 20th - AOH Division 1 Christmas Party at the Hall. This will also be the Early Bird Drawing for our Ire-land's 32 Raffle.

Division 2

October

October 11 - 9:30 am - 12:30 pm - Irish Breakfast - Adults - $7.00 ~ Pancake & Sausage Breakfast - Children - $3.00

TBA - 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm - Children’s Halloween Party - open to all members' children & friends alike. Free admission.

October 21 - 7:00 pm - Monthly Meeting -- All members encouraged to attend.

November

November 8 - 9:30 am - 12:30 pm - Irish Breakfast - Adults - $7.00 ~ Pancake & Sausage Breakfast - Children - $3.00

November 18 - 7:00 pm - Monthly Meeting -- All members encouraged to attend. Officer nominations.

December

December 6 - 2:00 pm AOH Orange County Board - Quarterly meeting. Location AOH Hall in Monroe All division/county members are encouraged to attend.

TBA - 7:00 - 11:00 pm - Irish Christmas Party, Potluck Supper. $20 at door. Music, sing-along. Proceeds to benefit local church food banks

December 13 - 9:30 am - 12:30 pm- Irish Breakfast - Adults - $7.00 ~ Pancake & Sausage Breakfast - Children - $3.00

TBA - 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm -Children's Christmas Party - Santa will arrive at 2:00 pm. Please bring a reasonable gift for your little ones.

December 16 - 7:00 pm - Monthly Meeting -- All members encouraged to attend. Officer elections.

Fall 2015

Summer is coming to an end and now things become busy for the Ancient Order of Hibernians in Orange County. Our annual Halfway to St. Patrick’s Day Family Picnic is planned for Saturday, September 19th at Fr. Donald J. Whelan - Division 2, Irish Cultural Center. Then we take time to honor our departed Brothers of Orange County with our annual Mass at Sacred Heart Chapel on Sunday, October 18, 2015.

The breakfast is to follow at Division 1 hall with guest speaker Carien Gereghty, NY State Freedom for All Ireland Chairman from Div. 5 in Albany. He will discuss the 1916 Easter Rebellion and the upcoming centenary.

With the turmoil of the upcoming New York City St. Patrick’s Day Parade still unsettled, plans for the Orange County’s AOH participation are still moving forward. Without taking sides in the dispute between the Trusties and the Director of the parade, we must keep in mind the reason for marching is to honor St. Patrick, the patron Saint of Ireland. To protest by boycotting and not attending is a victory for those who wish to stop the parade. The best way to approach the problem is to elect persons to the Parade committee who support and will look out for the interests of our Order. Currently, John J. Tully, a member of Division 7, NY County, is running and totally qualified to represent the AOH on the St. Patrick’s Parade Board. He is supported by other AOH Divisions in the New York City area and we plan to support Brother Tully in the upcoming vote. The selection of our Aide to represent AOH Orange County is still in effect and I look forward to presenting the name of the candidate to the parade committee.

As the year comes to a close, we face the selection of new Division Officers for the next two years. I ask those interested in the growth of our Order to step up and consider becoming involved on your Divisions. The installation of new officers will take place after the December elections.

July 2015

Brothers,

I wanted to thank all the members who took the time to go down to the AOH New York State Convention and vote. Orange County had a decent showing but we did not have the full allocated voters present. I wanted to thank Tommy Flynn for his support in organizing the bus trip. Here is the new slate of officers. Please note the appointment of Keith Reynolds and Kevin Cummings from Orange County as members of the State Board.

In Our Motto of Friendship, Unity and Christian Charity,

Tom McDonald, County President

New York State Officers

Chaplain Rev. Henry Reid – Port Jefferson Station, NY

Deputy Chaplain Rev. John Ahern – Syracuse, NY

President Timothy McSweeney – Selkirk, NY Phone: 518-961-1588 tmcsweeney@nyaoh.com

Vice President Victor J. Vogel – Islip, NY Phone: 631-513-9721 vvogel@nyaoh.com

Secretary Thomas Lambert – Buffalo, NY Phone: 716-796-7687 tlambert@nyaoh.com

Treasurer John Manning – Breezy Point, NY Phone: 917-589-0047 manning@fdny.nyc.gov

NY District 8 Area Dermot O. Moore - Greene, Sullivan, Ulster, Dutchess, Orange, Putnam, Schoharie, Rockland

Organizer Keith Reynolds – Middletown, NY organizer@nyaoh.com

Co-Webmasters

Kevin R. Cummings – New Windsor, NY mactir@gmail.com

Kevin Ellis – Yonkers, NY aohyonkers@gmail.com

National Officers

National President Brendan Moore – West Nyack, NY

National Director Charles F. McLean, Jr. – Staten Island, NY

National Historian Michael McCormack – Centereach, NY

National Editor John C. O’Connell – Floral Park, NY

National Immigration Daniel Dannehy – Cortlandt Manor, NY

Natl Anti-Defamation Neil Cosgrove - New City, NY

Natl Project St. Patrick Edward Wallace – Clayton, NY

Charities and Missions Charles F. McLean, Jr. - Staten Island, NY

Hibernian Hunger Project Charles F. McLean, Jr. - Staten Island, NY

Irish Heritage Month Neil Cosgrove - New City, NY

Oversight Committee Nick Murphy - Bardonia, NY

National Webmaster Jeff Nisler – Huntington, NY

Photo Left to Right - JP Graham (Sullivan County), Tommy Flynn, Kevin Cummings, Tom McCarthy, Jack Graham, Bob Burns, Ron Heppes, Keith Reynolds, Kevin Dooner, Tom McDonald, Ed Burke and Charlie Bohan.

May 2015 Newsletter

I would like to thank all the members who elected me as the President of the AOH Orange County Board. A special thanks to the outgoing officers who have led the Board for the last two years. I would like to thank Past Presidents Kevin Moore and Kevin Cummings for their support in my journey in the AOH. I feel the nominations of my fellow Board members will complement the direction of positive events for the members of the AOH in Orange County. I look forward to their support to assist in making us a better organization.

We have seen some positive growth in the Divisions and to encourage new members to continue their journey, we should capitalize on the upcoming Major Degree Ceremonies offered either at Schenectady on June 14 http://www.nyaoh.com/venue/%E2%80%8Bschenectady-aoh-hall/ , or at the upcoming 2015 NY State AOH/LAOH Biennial Convention on Saturday July 11^that 12:00 noon.

If new members require the Shamrock Degree (a requirement for the Major Degree) arrangements can be made to accommodate them before the Biennial Convention in July. Division Presidents and Financial Secretaries are requested to submit names of candidates willing to take the Shamrock Degree and contact myself or Kevin Cummings to determine a date for a Shamrock Degree in the County.

Memorial Day is this Monday,May 25^th, and the Catholic War Veterans are honoring our deceased veterans in Goshen. There will be a morning sunrise service that will start at 6:45AM at St. John’s Cemetery followed by memorial visits to St. James Cemetery, Slate Hill Cemetery, Orange County Veterans National Cemetery then the Orange Blossom Monument.

A breakfast will be served following the services, hosted by the Fourth Degree, St. John’s Knights of Columbus at the Senior Center. All who take part in the services are invited. Division 4 has supported this memorial service in years past and we are inviting other Divisions to join us. We will park our cars at Elsie’s and the Goshen Police station about 6:15 to 6:40am and car pool to St. Johns’ Cemetery. It will put our cars within walking distance of the breakfast at the Senior Center. Parade dress with black pants, green jackets is requested.

Brothers, this is a wonderful way to remember our veterans and does not tie up the whole morning, so please make the effort to attend.

The 2015 NY State AOH/LAOH Biennial Convention will be held at the Long Island Marriott in Uniondale, NY 11553 on Wednesday July 8th through Saturday July 11th. Voting is from 8-11am on Saturday July 11^th; remember our brothers must register first before voting. (I believe at the last State convention, Orange County had 23 votes). Those interested who wish more information about attending and events and activities taking place can view the website: www.nyaoh2015.com.

A Mercedes van that holds 14 passengers is leaving from TGI Fridays in Central Valley (Woodbury Centre, 5 Centre Dr, Central Valley, NY 10917) at 7:00 on the morning of July 11^th at no cost to AOH Brothers. Beverages will be available also. Tom Flynn (flynnfh@optonline.net) will keep the list of brothers who wish to go to the Convention until Keith Reynolds (flatfoot52@hotmail.com) returns from vacation. First come first serve on sign ups.

The next Orange County Board Meeting will be on Sunday September 13^th at 2:00 pm at Division 2 in Cornwall.

September 19 is the date for the County Picnic, at Division 2 in Cornwall. $10 per person or $25 per family at the door. More information to follow…

The Interim Meeting of the AOH National Board/National President's Testimonial Dinner will take place on Friday, October 2nd and Saturday, October 3rd at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Suffern, NY. http://www.aoh.com/aoh-national-presidents-testimonial-dinner/

County Memorial Mass October 18, at the Sacred Heart Chapel, at 9:30 for the Mass, followed by breakfast at Paddy Naughton Hall, 10 North Main St. Monroe, NY. More information to follow…..

In our motto,

Tom McDonald, County President

Greetings Brothers,

There will be a Shamrock and Major Degree session held in January in Albany, NY.

It is a part of your duty as a Hibernian to take the Degrees of our Order. If you already have your Shamrock Degree, you are eligible to take the Major Degree.

If you do NOT have your Shamrock Degree, there will be one offered prior to the Major Degree.

If there is sufficient interest, the County may charter a bus and you can get a ride to and from for a modest additional fee. If you would be interested in going by bus, please indicate in a email.

Particulars are as follows:

A major degree ceremony conferred by the

Schenectady Major Degree Team

Date: Sunday January 25, 2015

Time: 12:00 pm for candidates; 12:30 pm for observers

Place: Albany AOH Hall, 375 Ontario St. Albany NY

Price: $20.00 for candidates; $10.00 for observer (dinner to be served following ceremony)

Opportunities to take the Major Degree are few and far between. It is a great experience and will help you understand better what it means to be a Hibernian. I heartily recommend you make this investment in yourself as a Hibernian and receive your Major Degree!

In our Motto of Friendship, Unity and Christian Charity,

Kevin Moore, President, AOH Orange County Board

irishlad59@verizon.net

As discussed at the County Meeting. Please share at your Division meetings and show support to the LAOH. Parade dress to all those planning on attending. Please respond to the appropriate ladies listed on the email regarding attendance to both the Mass and breakfast. Please copy myself and Tom McDonald so we know who will be attending.

Friendship, Unity & Christian Charity,

Kevin

Here is the information regarding the Mass:

• Mass will be held on Sunday January 18,2015 @ 12 :00 mass at Sacred heart Church in Monroe-Fr Tom is our Chaplin and he usually says the Mass. (we wear sashes and uniform except we wear black pants instead of the off white which is just for marching) and walk in with the priest at the beginning of the Mass,usually there is a roped off section in front for members

• A short program is printed listing the names and division of those members or their immediate family who past away in 2014- as you know immediate family is Mother, Father, Sister, Brother, Spouses, children -- we also include Grandparents, & Mother & Father in Laws.

• Names of those to be remembered are emailed to Peggy Brennan-Flynn no later than Jan 12,2015- her email is mbrennan@hvc.rr.com

• A luncheon follows for members and of course family, spouses and any guests are invited to join us (at the Mass also) at the Birchwood Country Club-just down the road and the cost is $22 per person.

• Patsy McAteer is in charge of that so they call her at 845-222-8078 or can email her at redfeather13@yahoo.com for further information. Whoever plans on attending please let her know as soon as possible but no later than Jan 12,2015 since has to give them a head count to prepare for Sunday. Please notify her directly with any questions.

• Checks should be made out to OCLAOH and mailed to Mary Wingenter/County treasurer 138 Lake Shore Drive West, Rock Hill, NY 12775. Please mail no later than Jan 12

May 10, 2013 - County President's Report

Brothers,

I had the opportunity to attend the NYC St. Patrick’s Parade Committee Meeting at the NYAC on Tuesday night. During the course of the meeting, Parade Chairman, John Dunleavy announced that the men of Orange County AOH won the 2013 Best AOH Marching Unit - Seamus Comiskey Memorial Trophy. Congratulations to all the dedicated members who turned out on Saturday, March 16^th. Even the day’s cold temperatures and snow didn’t dim our spirits and determination to be the best!!

I truly believe that in addition to our excellent pipe and drum band and our uniform appearance (competing AOH units refer to us as the “Green Jackets”), that it is the number of members we consistently turn out to march; regardless of the day of the week and in all types of weather. Please put Monday, March 17, 2014 on your calendars and make every effort to attend the oldest, the largest and the best St. Patrick’s Day Parade and to keep the tradition alive and the trophy for Best AOH Marching Unit here in Orange County.

A few additional events and dates to remember:

The Orange County Board AOH Biennial Convention will be held on Saturday, June 8^th at 10:00 AM – Division 1 Hall, Monroe. Board Officers will be nominated and elected. Members of the NYS Board AOH will be present to swear in your new officers. Please make an effort to attend and show that the Hibernian spirit is alive and well in Orange County. Additional information will be made available to you shortly along with the Committee Chairs/members for Nominations, Bylaws, Audit and Grievances.
The NYS AOH Convention will be held July 10–13, 2013 in Saratoga Springs, NY. It is Orange County’s turn to nominate a District 8 Director and we need the members to show up in force as delegates. If you can only come for the day, please plan on Saturday (7/13) which is when the actual vote will take place. If you do plan on attending, I will need to know so that you can be officially listed as a county delegate. Additional information is available on www.nyaoh.com and will also be on hand at the county convention on June 8^th.

Upcoming fundraisers:

Fundraiser in Support of Brother Tim McSweeney's Candidacy for NYS AOH Vice Presidency, Sunday, March 19, 2013 from 3-5pm at the Albany - Div. 5 Hall, 375 Ontario Street, Albany, NY 12208. Beer, wine, well drinks, soda, and hors d'oeuvers; Music by Frank Jaklitsch and Friends at 4:30 pm. Cost: $20.00 per person.
Jim Burke for NYS AOH President Fundraiser, Sunday, June 9, 2013 from 2-7pm at the Massapequa (Div 15) Hibernian Hall. Admission is free but donations are encouraged. Money helps allay the costs of the NYS Hospitality Suite up in Saratoga Springs. If you have ever been to a convention before you know what a great time it is and how well the room is stocked to meet your needs.

These Hibernian men are great supporters of Orange County AOH and have visited on several occasions. Please let’s return the favor and show our support for them.

A worthy cause:

Rockaway Beach/Breezy Point Irish Festival, June 1 and 2, 2013 - 11 am to 8 pm at St. Camillus Church, Beach 100th Street and Shore Front Parkway, Rockaway Beach, NY. $10 p/p admission. Join them for music, (Shillelagh Law, The Canny Brothers, U2 Unforgettable Fire Band, Andy Cooney, Celtic Cross, The Cunningham Brothers, Jameson's Revenge, Narrowbacks, and others.) dancing, food, crafts, Irish goods, and a great time for the whole family. All for a worthy cause (any donation welcomed). Proceeds will benefit the Hibernian Sandy Relief Fund. See: http://www.irishfestaohdiv21.com/

Please pass along the good news and upcoming event information to your Brothers in your division.

Yours in Our Motto of Friendship, Unity and Christian Charity,

Kevin R. Cummings
President
Orange County Board
845-857-8752

5/4/13 Report to the NYS AOH Board - East Durham

Since our last semi-annual NYS Board meeting in the fall, the Orange County Board has met twice. Our winter meeting, held in Division 2 Hall on December 16, 2012 was well attended by members from across the county. The Division Presidents and members in attendance represented all three divisions of Orange County. Support was voiced for our Hibernian Brothers who were suffering from the effects of Super Storm Sandy. Also at this meeting, Brother Thomas McDonald of Division 4 was introduced as the Orange County Aide to the Grand Marshal at the 252nd NYC St. Patrick’s Day Parade. On Saturday, March 16th, the Orange County membership turned out in large numbers to escort Brother McDonald down Fifth Avenue.

The County Board held its spring meeting on April 21 in Division 2 Hall in Cornwall with all divisions represented. Special thanks to our honored guests who attended the meeting including NYS AOH Board Officers: Vice President James Burke and Treasurer Vic Vogel. Another high point of the meeting was the conferring of the Shamrock Degree on twelve new brothers. The Seamus Comisky Memorial Shamrock Degree Team led by Brother Jim Kelly did an outstanding job as usual. Plans for an Annual County Family Picnic to be held in September on the Division 2 grounds (just off the Thruway) were discussed. Heading the picnic committee are Division Presidents Keith Reynolds, Ray Fitzgerald and Kevin Dooner. Additional information will be available on the County’s website as it becomes available.

The Orange County Board and its divisions have been, and continue to be; proud supporters of many charitable causes including the Sandy Relief Fund and related organizing toy drives for children affected by Super Storm Sandy. Others charities include the Castle Point Veterans Hospital Food Pantry, Our Father’s Kitchen , The Convent of the Presentation Sisters, The Newburgh Ministry and Food Pantry and many others.

On a sad note, I must report the passing of esteemed member Father Jack Logan, O.Carm, beloved Chaplain of Division 4 and the 2013 Grand Marshal of the Mid-Hudson St. Patrick’s Parade. Unfortunately, Father Jack passed away before taking his place at the head of the parade but in his absence, family members and Brother Priests of the Carmelite Order proudly represented him. Also on a sad note, longtime member and Past AOH County President Jerry Quill, a member of Division 2, passed away after a long illness. Jerry, who was also the President of the Mid-Hudson St. Patrick’s Parade Committee, was involved in all things Irish in Orange County. Each of these fine men were true Hibernians and all who knew them will sorely miss them.

Some dates to remember: Division 1’s Mother’s Day Breakfast—May 12. Division 2’s Mother’s Day Irish Breakfast—May 12 and Building Fund Raffle—June 15. Orange County AOH Convention—June 8. The Orange County Hibernian Picnic—September (date TBA). Watch the county website for additional event announcements and details.

Yours in our motto

Kevin R. Cummings
President
Orange County Board
Ancient Order of Hibernians

5/5/12

Spring 2012 NYS AOH Board Meeting

Dear Brothers and Friends of the Order,

Since our last semi-annual NYS Board meeting in the fall, the Orange County Board has met twice. Our winter meeting was held in Division 2 Hall on December 12, 2011 and was well attended by members from across the county. Special thanks to our honored guests who attended the meeting including: Brendan Moore, National Vice President; NYS AOH Board Officers: James Burke, Vice President; Tim McSweeney, Secretary; Vince Tyer, District 8 Director and Rockland County President and Past NYS President Charles “Chip” McLean. Also in attendance was Brother Frank Kearney of Connecticut who along with Brothers Moore and McLean spoke about there candidacy for national office. Additional guests included a delegation from Rockland County. All divisions of Orange County were represented by the Division Presidents and members.

The County Board held a spring meeting on April 29^th in Division 1 Hall in Monroe with all divisions represented. At this meeting the county voted to assist LAOH Division 4 and 5 members conduct the Lady of Knock Communion Breakfast to be held on Sunday, August 19^th at the Carmelite Shrine in Middletown. Plans were also put forth for an Annual County Family Picnic to be held on Saturday, September 15^th on the Division 2 grounds (just off the Thruway). Heading the picnic committee are Division Presidents Keith Reynolds, Kevin Moore and Thomas McDonald. Additional information will be available on the County’s website as it becomes available. Also at this meeting, members also voted to repeat the popular 50/50 Winter Raffle with a drawing scheduled for our 2012 winter meeting.

A fundraiser for Brother Bill O’Donnell was held on April 14^th at Division 1 Hall in Monroe.

The Orange County Seamus Comiskey Shamrock Degree Team was honored at our April meeting by Team coordinator, Brother James Kelly who presented members with a pocket identification clip and pouch identifying them as members of the team

The Orange County Board and its divisions are proud sponsors of the Castle Point Veterans Hospital Food Pantry and made a combined donation of $1200. In addition, approximately $1000 of donated used clothing was donated to the Veteran’s Services.

It is with much reservation that I must report the disbanding of the Col. Quinlan, Division 3 located in Warwick. The division concluded business on December 31, 2011 with the paying of its national, state and county assessments. At the April county meeting, all financial records, funds and properties were turned over to me.

On a sad note I must report the passing of esteemed members Leo O’Grady of Division 1, and Judge Joseph Thomson of Division 2.

Finally, I wish to thank the members of Orange County and in particular, LAOH Division 5 Past President Gail Edmonds for their widespread support of the NYS AOH Calendar fundraiser. Gail was instrumental in reaching out to the LAOH members in the county and hand delivered many of the sold calendars by herself. Next year she has promised to double her sales. We wish her luck!

Yours in our motto,

Kevin R. Cummings
President
Orange County Board
Ancient Order of Hibernians