March is a grand month to start running with many firsts in anticipation of traditional spring events, all in the spirit of Michael Finnegan to begin again with Céad Míle Fáilte.
Perhaps it’s the first crocus, first robin, first earthworm or the first patch of green grass. Or maybe this year will be the first time to enter the Rotary Sunrise St. Paddy’s Day 5K, first time to watch the West Suburban Irish St. Patrick’s Parade or the first time to try the traditional family recipe for corned beef marinated by the butchers at Casey’s Foods.
Or Tues., March 18 might be the first time to vote in an Illinois Primary.
Whatever comes first, opportunities to pay attention and enjoy this thriving community extend with a hundred thousand welcomes. All the folks planning events and running to be elected are hopeful residents are familiar with how they plan to benefit the community with service.
For instance, the West Suburban Irish, a nonprofit group of revelers celebrating in traditional style throughout the month, will set their 21st annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade in motion at 10AM Sat., March 15.
Yet even before their big day, members created their latest collectible scarf that sells for $5 to benefit St. Baldrick’s Foundation. In late February, they hosted their annual Emerald Dinner at White Eagle Golf Club. Their monthly Quiz Night at Quigley’s is set for 7PM Tues., March 4. And their Irish Mass will begin at 6:30PM Thursday, March 13, at St. Thomas the Apostle Church.
No stranger to West Suburban Irish festivities, Mike Reilly will serve as the 2014 Honorary Grand Marshall. An active supporter of the club, Reilly currently serves as Vice President of the Naperville Park District. He recently was recognized with the 2013 Rising Star Award from the Association of Park Districts. Dedicated players in the monthly WSI Quiz Nights at Quigley’s Irish Pub are mindful that Reilly is the “mellifluous voice” who narrates rounds of trivia while WSI president Chuck Corrigan keeps score.
It’s interesting to note that a child born the first year of the WSI St. Patrick’s Day Parade can join the after-parade festivities at Quigley’s Irish Pub this year. Sláinte. Celebrate safely.
