Open letter to Dr. John Lahey – St. Patrick’s Day Parade Inc.
Posted by Jim on May 10, 2018
St. Patrick’s Day Parade, Inc.
Board of Directors Dr. John L. Lahey, Chairman
PO Box 295, Woodlawn Station Bronx, NY 10470
May 7, 2018
…
Members of the Board of Directors:
On April 17th, 2018 representatives from the four largest Affiliated Organizations to the New York City St. Patrick’s Day Parade met to discuss issues and concerns we had regarding the parade. At this unprecedented meeting of the four largest affiliates from the Ancient Order of Hibernians, The Grand Council of United Emerald Societies, Ladies Ancient Order of Hibernians and the United Irish Counties Association of New York, we came together in a unified manner to appeal to the Board of Directors to hear our voices as we offer our assistance in resolving some of the most pressing issues facing the parade. Among the major issues that were discussed by the affiliates were the ongoing litigation the Board of Directors is involved with that to date has cost close to $500,00.00. In addition, we addressed the offer proposed by Dr. Lahey of a seat on the Board of Directors to each of our four organizations. All members at this meeting were also concerned that our voices, and the voices of all Affiliated Organizations that represent the NYC St. Patrick’s Day Parade, are not being heard. We believe that these issues, and many others, can be resolved with the input of the Affiliated Organizations. It is our desire to see the litigation settled by mediation rather than continue to spend money that is raised by our supporters for endless legal fees. We are appealing to Dr. Lahey, and the entire Board of Directors to open sensible dialogue with the representatives from the four largest groups to start to restore the governance, financial security and integrity to the NYC St. Patrick’s Day Parade. We respectfully request a meeting with the full board of directors. We are also asking all of those who love and support Our Parade to make their voices heard to let the Board of Directors know that it is time to be one again and to represent all of those that have helped to make this wonderful parade the beautiful tribute to our heritage, culture and our Patron, Saint Patrick.
Fraternally,
Ancient Order of Hibernians
The Grand Council of United Emerald Societies
Ladies Ancient Order of Hibernians
United Irish Counties Association of New York