Members of the County Clare Patriotic, Benevolent and Social Association of New York are the latest to join in congratulating Brother Sean MacNamara of the Irish Christian Brothers, Ennis on celebrating his 70th year in the order.
Their good wishes were conveyed by Bill Lewis, chairman of the Board of Directors of the Clare Association in New York, who made a presentation to Brother MacNamara on their behalf on a visit to Ennis in November 2014. He paid tribute to the Kilmurry McMahon native on reaching a milestone in his association with the Christian Brothers and also for his work on behalf of the GAA, Muintir an Chláir in Dublin and many other voluntary organisations.
Bill Lewis, who is New York born, also visited his cousins and friends in Killaloe. His father, William Lewis came from Killaloe and his mother was a member of the O’Grady family from Sligo. He made the presentation to Brother MacNamara at Clare County Council headquarters- Áras Contae an Chláir- at New Road, Ennis prior to a monthly meeting of Clare County Council.
Afterwards he renewed acquaintances with the Mayor of Clare, John Crowe, council members and officials. He met many of them when they travelled to New York for the 125th year celebrations of the Clare Association last year and for the St. Patrick’s Day parades.
His itinerary also included a visit to Tulla to meet members of the Tulla Pipe Band. Last year they invited the band to lead them up 5th Avenue in the St. Patrick’s Day parade. The band also marched in Brooklyn and gave a memorable performance at the National Park on Ellis Island.
Bill Lewis told The Clare Champion that the Clare Association in New York is going well. They recently held their annual dinner dance and their annual general meeting. They are also preparing for their participation in the St.Patrick’s Day Parade on March 17.
Above article and photograph by Tony Mulvey reproduced with permission from the Clare Champion, 13 November, 2014