|
NYPD Emerald Society News/Events 2007, 2008, 2007, 2006, 2005
Delegates Dinner, December 8, 2004
On Wednesday December 8, 2004 the NYPD Emerald Society Annual Delegates Dinner was held at Durrow’s Restaurant in Glendale, Queens. Delegates in attendance enjoyed a nice buffet style dinner and open bar. After the main course President Michael Murphy addressed the gathering. He thanked the delegates for all the work they do promoting the Society. He then went on to commend the Chairman Don Rogers for organizing this year’s holiday season event. For the delegates and the board officers it was that time of year to distribute the newly minted membership cards. The 2005 cards are now available through our delegates, by mail, or through our website. Mike Murphy urges everyone to "buy your card early & avoid the March rush!" The Pipes & Drums were also on hand and played some of their favorite tunes. The Band marched off to the classic "Garryowen," and their performance as always was truly appreciated. As the night closed the fraternity exchanged handshakes and Merry Christmas wishes.
December, 2004 General Meeting
At the December 2004 NYPD Emerald Society meeting President Michael Murphy both welcomed back and announced Msgr. Martin Geraghty as our 2005 Man-of-the-Year. The well-attended meeting was held in the St. Andrew R.C. Church hall in lower Manhattan. Msgr. Geraghty the Emerald Society Chaplain has been recuperating from a recent surgery. It was the first meeting he was able to attend since his operation. Msgr. will be honored at our Annual Dinner Dance, Friday February 25, 2005 at Leonard’s of Great Neck. He will be officially installed as the man-of-the-year before what is expected to be a full house of his friends from both the NYPD and his parish. Msgr. Geraghty is the pastor of St. Francis De Sales R.C. Church in the "Irish enclave" of Rockaway, Queens. It should be a fine night when this truly deserving man is recognized for his faith and his many good deeds. The meeting continued with its normal course of business. In addition Past President Joe Keenan our representative in the NCLEES reported on news at the national level. He also spoke of a successful petition that had recently been circulated throughout the law enforcement community. The petition called for the removal of a radical college professor, who was convicted in 1984 of weapons charges and sentenced to 58 years in prison. The petition evidently weighed in heavily in the decision to terminate this individual. She is no longer on the staff at a criminal justice college in New York City. Joe Keenan reminded the membership that when we work together with our fellow members in blue we can accomplish great things. With only a limited amount of shopping days till Christmas, Emerald Society clothing sales were quite brisk. Members were lined up to purchase shirts, jackets, and hats etc. that would eventually be wrapped and placed under the tree. Soon these items will be available through the Emerald Society website. Online shoppers will be able to point & click their computer mouse while on an Emerald-shopping spree. Keep checking the website for the "grand opening" of the Sales Section at www.nypdemeralds.com. In the holiday spirit many members continued to contribute to our Christmas Holiday Toy Drive, which will once again go to the aid of a family in need. As the meeting came to a close President Murphy wished all members a Merry Christmas And a Happy New Year. He also urged everyone to remember in our prays our brave men and women in the military as they serve in harms way.
New Orleans Trip, Oct. 28 - Nov 1, 2004
Travel Chairwoman Patty Lyons led a NYPD Emerald Society delegation to the "Big Easy." Thirty guests enjoyed a 4-night trip to the Maison DuPuy Hotel in the exciting city of New Orleans. A popular spot was poolside, as the temperature was well into the 80’s throughout the long weekend stay. Among the many sites to take in were the French Quarter, the Garden Area and Bourbon Street. Halloween inspired a Mardi Gras like atmosphere across the city. Some of our travelers had fun with their very own celebrity costume party. It was a memorable night as Alice MacDermeid/Tippy Hendrin, Eileen Nerlick/Martha Stewart, Ginny Reilly/The Pirate, and Carl Fazio/Big Bird went to great lengths in creating their star-studded outfits. The chairwoman really was quite a "religious icon," as "Sister Patty of the Little Sisters of the Emeralds." Hey, who was that dressed as Past President John McLoughlin? The WW II D-Day Museum was an impressive place to spend an afternoon. Joe and Mary Murphy along with Ann O’Farrell and Benny Sciame had a chance, to take in some history, at this site. There were other brave souls that ventured to a cemetery tour. New Orleans is noted for its fascinating graveyards. Dining was another highlight that everyone found to their liking. The food was excellent, ranging from a Jazz Brunch to elegant night time dining. As the group jetted back to NYC, many guest were still wearing their New Orleans beads. The trinkets should remind them of all the fun they shared down-on-the-Bayou!
November, 2004 General Meeting
The NYPD Emerald Society November 2004 Meeting was held at the St. Andrew R.C. Church Hall. President Michael Murphy presented the annual Emerald Society Patrick J. O’Connor Award to Sgt. Patrick McCooey of Emergency Service Squad 6. Accompanying Pat was his wife Tara and their son Billy. The membership gave them a well-deserved standing ovation. President Murphy read a narrative from the Medal Day Ceremony where Pat was awarded the Police Combat Cross. That distinguished honor is giving for acts of extraordinary bravery in a life-threatening situation with an armed adversary. In January, 2000 Sgt. McCooey of the Street Crime Unit interrupted an armed robbery of a livery cab driver. The perpetrator was about to execute the cabbie with a gun to his head when McCooey fired 2 shots. The perp fired his gun at the Sgt. then after the exchange of gunfire the perp fled the scene. He was apprehended with a gunshot wound a short distance away by the Sgt. Responding officers also collared 2 other accomplices. On this night, McCooey humbly accepted his plaque from President Murphy as his wife proudly looked on while holding little Billy. There is nothing like receiving the approval of your fellow cops and the thunderous applause showed the respect that Patrick McCooey earned for his outstanding heroism. Later President Murphy invited Mr. Paddy McCarthy, the publisher of Irish Connections magazine, to speak. Mr. McCarthy informed the members about the magazine, which he started 5 years ago. The periodical features articles on the lifestyles and interest of the Irish American community. Irish Connections is available nationwide, as well as in Canada. McCarthy along with retired P.O. Bob Crowley ( 50 Pct. ) of the magazines sales department stayed on throughout the evening. It looked like they made many new friends and possibly some new subscribers! For more on their publication visit their website at www.irishconnectionsmag.com. As the meeting continued, Patty Lyons gave a quick re-cap on the New Orleans Trip. The news was quite up-to-date as Patty had only arrived at Kennedy Airport just a couple of hours before the meeting started. She reported that everyone had a fun time and many new friends were made. She also announced that there would be a trip called "Easter in Ireland," and that she would be available to answer questions on this after a couple of days of rest. More details on this trip are on the website. Emerald delegates were invited to the Annual Delegates Dinner, it will be on Thursday, December 9th at Durrows Restaurant in Glendale, Queens. Chairman Donal Rogers will be sending out invitations to our hardworking delegates. This meeting taking place the night before Election Day saw many of our active members departing early. Some of who would be assigned to polling places as early as 06:00 hrs. Fortunately, for the large group of retired members, they did not have to worry about any curfews or early morning roll calls.
Annual Army Football Game, October 9, 2004
The NYPD Emerald Society Annual Army Football Game was held on Saturday October 9, 2004. The weather was fantastic on a sun-filled autumn day. The historic grounds of the West Point Military Academy provided a most impressive venue for the sights and the sounds of the gridiron. The Army Team played Cincinnatti and defeated them in an action packed game. The final score was 48-29 in a high scoring battle. The game was actually just part of a long funfilled day for our Emerald Society pigskin fans. Many members arrived early by charter bus as others headed north by car to the Hudson Valley. They all enjoyed a pre-game tailgate party and viewed a wonderful military parade before heading into Michie Stadium. President Mike Murphy and Chairmen George Anderson and Timmy Black hosted the Emerald group of 100, and as always there was plenty of hospitality! Fans got an extra treat as Rosie Kelly organized an impromptu game of touch tackle. Also helping out were Past Presidents Joe Keenan and Eddie Connolly along with Board Officers Dennis Gallagher and Marianna Murray. Retirees V.P. Jack Borsare looks like he ready to play again, after his recent surgery. It was another great reason to belong, and participate, in an Emerald Society event!
October, 2004 General Meeting
The NYPD Emerald Society October, 2004 meeting was held at the St. Andrew R.C. Church hall. It was Band Appreciation Night, and President Michael Murphy presented plaques to five members of the NYPD Pipes & Drums. The honorees were Kenny Reiman, Andy McEvoy, Kevin Maloney, John Barna & Bill Donuhue. This longstanding event is a way for the Society to show its gratitude for the loyalty and support the Band provides. The Band can always be counted on to "do the right thing." After they played some great tunes, they marched out to the memberships rousing ovation. President Murphy then called on several Board Officers to give updates, on upcoming and recent events. Richie Wall advised on the High School Scholarship Exam. The test is scheduled for Saturday, January 15, 2005 at 9am sharp in the Police Academy. Tom Cawley spoke on the College Scholarship. Brendan Dolan recapped the recent Run for Fun. Rosie Kelly requested donations for the Holiday Toy Fair, and as usual, the membership dug into their pockets. Also invited to speak was Mike Corridan and Seamus Doherty of the NYPD Gaelic Football Team. They advised the team will be playing the Dublin Garda. The game is scheduled for Sunday, October 24th in Gaelic Park, The Bronx. Donations from the day will go to the family of the late P.O. Scott Gallagher (34 Pct.). Afterwards there will be a music show featuring the band Seanachai and others. From the Pipes & Drums, Bandmaster Brian Coughlin announced a new band class was forming. Anyone interested in joining should attend the first session scheduled for Wed. November 3rd. It will be in Charlie's Restaurant in the Bronx. The night was also a great "photo-op" for a group of our Past Presidents, and they all took turns talking P.P. Eddie Connolly into retiring! Attending her 1st meeting was Dee Cook, the webmaster for the nypdangels.com website. This is an excellent site that everyone should visit. As the meeting ended, it appeared, everyone had a very enjoyable evening. The night was highlighted by our beloved bagpipes and drums.
Annual Run for Fun, September 18, 2004
The NYPD Emerald Society Annual Run for Fun was held on Saturday, September 18, 2004 in Rockaway, Queens. The weather was a major factor in attendance, as 60 hardy souls raced through the rising puddles. The lingering effect of Hurricane Frances caused some heavy downpours. It rained right up to the start of the competition. In spite of all this, Chairman Brendan Dolan reports all went well, and there were no reports of any drowned participants! Afterwards, a group of runners and spectators retreated to the famous Rockaway landmark "The Irish Circle." Owner Gerry Perrish provided a dry refuge with plenty of "Irish hospitality." Chairman Dolan and Co-Chair Gary Rudolph announced that the fastest finish by a Board Officer was set by young Timmy Black. Rumor has it three other Board Officers were early scratches at the start of the race. The threesome of Past Presidents Richie Bergin & John McLoughlin, along with Retirees V.P. Jack Borsare bowed out of the contest. Alledgedly they were under the impression that the racing event was going to be held indoors! All in all, the day was a success, showing that even though the rain fell hard upon our field, everyone was blessed with a good time.
September, 2004 General Meeting
The NYPD Emerald Society September 2004 meeting was held at the St. Andrew R.C. Church Hall. The meeting started off on a sad note. President Michael Murphy opened with a prayer and a moment of silence in memory of Det. Robert Parker and Det. Patrick Rafferty of the 67 Pct. Det. Squad. Both men were shot and killed in the line of duty on September 10th while working in Brooklyn. President Murphy than went on to conduct the regular meeting. He spoke on the successful Yankee Oldtimers Game, held in July, and the upcoming Run for Fun. The Race will be in Rockaway with a 10am start. It was also announced that the 1 Day Golf Outing set for Friday, September 17th has been cancelled. Rosie Kelly informed the members that starting at the next meeting she will be collecting donations for Christmas gifts for needy children. This program was started a number of years ago and is a very worthy cause well supported by our members. George Anderson, chairman of the Army West Point Football Game, announced that the game is completely soldout. Past President Joe Keenan advised on the passing of H.R. 218 (the gun carry law for both active and retired police officers). The law was passed by Congress and signed by President George W. Bush in July. Freddy Crockett of the Pipe Band reported on the highly acclaimed Memorial Concert held on September 11th. The Pipes & Drums really outdid themselves with a great show. The concert honored all our Heroes of 9/11 & the War on Terrorism. Noel Maloney of the NYPD Gaelic Football Team gave a brief update on the teams upcoming schedule. President Murphy went on to report that the Monday, Oct. 4th meeting will not be in The Bronx. It will be held in Manhattan. Additionally, this meeting will be Band Appreciation Night, with a performance by the Pipes & Drums. It should be a fun night. A future meeting will, however, be conducted up north. As the meeting concluded, new members were welcomed and thanked for attending. The old members than finished their dinners and enjoyed their refreshments.
NYPD Emerald Society Pipe & Drum Band Memorial Concert
September 11, 2004
On Saturday September 11, 2004 the NYPD Pipes & Drums held their Annual Memorial Concert at Town Hall in midtown Manhattan. Radio personality Todd Pentingill was the emcee for a sellout audience of 1,200. Many members of the Society along with fans of the Band were on hand. This was the first time since the World Trade Center attack that the Memorial Concert was held on September 11th. This date as we all know will always be very emotional for all Americans. It indeed will forever be part of the tested soul of the NYPD and of all of New York City. The Band put together a memorable night with an outstanding program. Each of the bands and all of the performers added their own special part to this tremendous collage of music and dance. The evening started with the NYPD Pipes & Drums performing their own salute to our military. As each branch of the military's Battle Song was played a service person would march on to the stage. They were giving a rousing applause and that set the tempo for the rest of the spirited night. The Pipe & Drum Bands that followed this opening were the Bergin County Police Band, the Boston Police Gaelic Column, the Cleveland Police Band, and from Canada the York Regional Band. The famous Donny Golden Irish Step Dancers provided a fine performance, while displaying their great talent. Police Officer Randy Snider of Whitehall, Ohio stirred the crowd with a selection of patriotic songs. The United States Marine Corp Band from Quantico performed a dramatic and moving tribute to all our lost Heroes of 9/11 & the War on Terrorism. You could feel the emotional rush that they sent through the audience. The great Irish Tenor Ronan Tynan had everyone clapping and singing along to a favorite song "My Irish Molly". Ronan had many an Irish eye smiling with his lighthearted delivery. He than swung the emotional pendulum of the night with two very sentimental tunes, "The Old Man" and the classic "Danny Boy". As the old saying goes, their wasn't a dry eye in the house. Ronan than finished up with the entire crowd joining in to sing "God Bless America". The only thing missing from this wonderful night was a 21-Gun Salute for the NYPD PIPES & DRUMS! They put on an outstanding and well thought event where everyone could enjoy their Irish heritage and their American patriotism. As the lights dimmed at Town Hall, the audience was invited to march behind the Pipes & Drums that were made up of all the participating bands. The crowd followed the bands out on to West 43rd Street and than up 6th Avenue. With a large contingent of NYPD vehicles guiding the way north to the Park Central New York Hotel. This was certainly a "New York Moment" for everyone who marched as well as for the curious onlookers. The Band than hosted a terrific gathering in the hotel. The Kevin Smith Band provided more music and their was an encore performance by the guys from Quantico! On a scale of 1 to 10 this was no doubt a "10 Shamrock Night"!!!!
The NYPD Emerald Society Annual Yankee Game, July 10, 2004
The NYPD Emerald Society Annual Yankee Game was held on Saturday, July 10th. This event like so many other Emerald Society gatherings was a funfilled time for all those who attended. Many children were on hand and they appeared to have had as good a time as their parents. The day started with a tailgate party outside the Stadium on a beautiful sundrenched day. Marybeth Colby and her committee of John & Chris Fitzgerald, Richie & Timmy Bergin along with Brendan Nolan did a fantastic job by supplying plenty of food & ice cold refreshments. It was Oldtimers Day at "The Big Ballpark in the Bronx" with a sellout crowd of 55 thousand fans. Contrary to President Mike Murphy's report they were not all Irishmen!! It was a treat to see many Yankee favorites from days-gone-by playing in the Oldtimers Game (where have you gone Paul O'Neill?). The 1st place Yankees than went on to defeat the Tampa Bay Devil Rays by a score of 6 to 3, thanks to Jeter, A-Rod & Rivera. The tickets were great and everyone enjoyed the expansive view from the upperdeck seats. Richie Bergin was overheard saying " I really like waving down to the people in the Fuji Blimp when they fly by." After the game Chris Fitzgerald insisted on keeping the tailgate party going for the diehards. It is believed to have ended once the mosquitoes arrived!! And so went another terrific Emerald day.
NYPD Emerald Society Annual Three Day Golf Outing, June 14-16, 2004
The NYPD Emerald Society Annual 3 Day Golf Outing was held June 14th thru the 16th at the Nevele Grande Resort. This "Catskills Classic" was chaired by Past Presidents Joe Keenan & Eddie Connolly along with Treasurer Jay Gerrity. All reports are that it was another great success. Good weather conditions prevailed for the 240 golfers who were in attendance. Three golfers stood out for their achievements: Best Score went to Jerome Resker with a 75, Best Golfer was John Haughie and the "Jet Blue Challenge" (hole-in-one contest) with the closest shot was John Oppel. President Mike Murphy was busy with his digital camera when he wasn't slamming the little white ball into oblivion. When asked about Mike's talent on the greens, Joe Keenan stated "Mike as a golfer is an excellent photographer." Past Presidents Tom Cawley & John McLoughlin were also in attendance and spreading good cheer. Board Officers Richie Shenton & John West were on the links prepping themselves for the One Day Outing in September, their hoping for the same good weather in Staten Island. The 3 days went by fast amongst the laughs and the talk of the good old days. Hopefully many will be back for next year!
June, 2004 General Meeting
At the NYPD Emerald Society June 2004 meeting at St. Andrew R.C. Church hall a variety of topics were addressed by President Michael Murphy. He stated that he was very happy to announce that 2 upcoming events were sold out. Both the 3 Day Golf Outing and the New York Yankees Oldtimers Day were completely booked. The new nypdemeralds.com website was introduced to the membership. The newly installed webmaster Tom Sullivan urged everyone to visit the site often and to send any suggestions that they might have. Travel chairwoman Patty Lyons provided info on the October 2004 trip to New Orleans. Anyone interested should contact her as soon as possible. Past president Joe Keenan discussed matters pertaining to our affiliation with the National Conference of Law Enforcement Emerald Societies (NCLEES). He also gave a briefing on the 1 day NYPD bus trip to Washington, D.C. during National Police Week. Joe said, he hoped we would have even more members of The Finest turn out next year for this tribute. Dennis Keenan was later presented with a retirees plaque by President Murphy. There are no meetings scheduled for July and August. We hope all our members and their families have a happy and safe summer!
May, 2004 General Meeting
At the NYPD Emerald Society May 2004 meeting held at St. Sebastian R.C. Church Hall, high school scholarships were presented. President Michael Murphy and Chairman Richard Wall presented 10 boys and 7 girls with awards. The students are all children of long time Emerald Society members. The society hopes that it can, if only in a small way, be a helping hand to these families in their support of Catholic educations. Our Chaplain, Msgr. Geraghty led an opening invocation and also aided in the presentations. Many pictures were taken by proud parents, grandparents and family members. Everyone also enjoyed a fine catered menu. The NYPD Pipes and Drums ended this fine night with a great selection of tunes.
April, 2004 General Meeting
At the NYPD Emerald Society April 2004 meeting, held at St. Andrew R.C. Church Hall, there were several honorees including the Policewoman of the Year and Emerald Society retirees. President Michael Murphy presented Captain Theresa Tobin of Headquarters with a plaque honoring her as the 2004 Policewoman of the Year. President Murphy spoke of Capt. Tobin’s career along with her heroic efforts while at the World Trade Center terrorist attack on September 11, 2001. Those in attendance gave a rousing applause as the plaque was graciously accepted by Capt. Tobin. Six retirees were presented with plaques acknowledging their many years of service and dedication to the society. Three of the retirees were Board Officers Det. Carl Wunder of Bklyn. North Narcotics, Det. Christopher Fitzgerald of Emergency Service Unit & Sgt. Tom Sullivan of Emergency Service Squad 6. Also honored were Lt. John Millett of H.Q. Sgt. Pete Woods of Harbor Patrol, and Sgt. Artie Mattor of ESU. All were proud of their beautiful awards and it was a night to be enjoyed by all.
March, 2004 General Meeting
At the NYPD Emerald Society March 2004 meeting, held at St. Andrew R.C. Church hall, President Michael Murphy honored immediate past president Edward Connolly. Eddie was presented with a plaque, noting his dedication and leadership while serving as president in 2002 and 2003. He was also recognized for his fraternal work by Phil Parrish, who presented Eddie with a plaque on behalf of the Committee of Police Societies. This organization, known as COPS, is a coalition of NYPD fraternal groups. It was nice seeing Ed Connolly remembered for all his good work.
St. Patrick’s Day, March 17
March 17, 2004 was another glorious day in the annals of the NYPD Emerald Society. Hundreds of members marched in honor of New York City’s Patron, St. Patrick. Parade watchers gave a hardy welcome all the way up 5th Ave. Our Pipes and Drums led Emerald Society members of all ranks. There was also a large contingent of retired members following the sea of blue uniforms. President Michael Murphy had a busy day after marching at the lead he later hosted a rather large crowd (don’t ask how many!) at a west side pier. It was indeed a working day for the Emerald Board. As always, lots of fun and fraternity was shared. Many police departments were represented from the area as well as from across the U.S.A. We were also happy to have some friends from the Garda, the Irish Police. The Garda are always very hospitable when our cops go back to the dear old Emerald Isle. Musical entertainment was provided by the Mike Sheahan Band, they kept everyone in a festive mood. The greatest pipe and drum band in the world, the renown NYPD Pipes and Drums, captivated the crowd with an awesome display of their musical talent. When they marched into the party, they stirred the crowd with both patriotic and traditional sets. So it was another great day for the NYPD Green, filled with Pride and Spirit!
Bronx Parade, March 14
NYPD Emerald Society President Michael Murphy led a small but spirited group of marchers in the Bronx. It was another occassion to honor St. Patrick in the Boroughs. As Mike likes to say this parade was "on the mainland" in his beloved "DA BRONX." Afterwards 1st Vice President Dennis Gallagher helped out at an informal gathering of post parade celebrants at a local pub. Yes, the month of March is indeed a busy time for The New Yorks Irish!.
Staten Island St. Patrick’s Party, March 7
After participating in the Staten Island St. Patrick’s Day Parade on Sunday March 7, 2004, an NYPD Emerald Society Party was held at St. Peter’s R.C. Church Hall. It was a fun afternoon with plenty of food and beverages for the families in attendance. Music was provided by Tommy O’Callaghan and the Moonshiners Band. There were Irish dancers as well as music from the Staten Island Pipers. As always, Msgr. James Dorney was a most generous host and we thank him for being a great friend to the Emerald Society. Thanks also to all who helped out setting up and working the party! Congratulations to MISS HIBERNIA, the lovely Kate Owens, daughter of retired Det. Billy Owens both of whom were in attendance.
Dinner Dance, February, 2004
A crowd of over 1000 attended the annual NYPD Emerald Society Dinner Dance. President Michael Murphy honored the Patrolman’s Benevolent Association President Patrick Lynch making him our man of the year for 2004. The festivities were held at Leonard’s of Great Neck in Long Island. Pat received many accolades including praise for his dedication by U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer, who was an invited guest. Pat was surrounded by many of his close friends and his large family, and was truly a deserving honoree. Music was provided by the New York Showband. Congratulations go to Chairmen Dennis Gallagher and past president Tom Cawley for a job well done.
Winter Weekend at the Nevele Grande, February, 2004
The annual NYPD Emerald Society Winter Weekend was held February 13 thru February 16, 2004. Everyone had a very enjoyable time while staying at the Nevele Grande East Resort in the Catskill Mountains. Over 900 guests young and old attended. It was, as always, a memorable time shared by friends and families. Music was provided by the Martin Flynn Duo, Tommy O’Callaghan and the Moonshiners, the Garda Band and the NYPD Pipes and Drums Band. The weather made it perfect for winter activities enjoyed by many while outdoors. We can’t wait for next year’s trip! Special thanks to NYPD Chaplain Father Romano for saying mass on Sunday morning. Thanks also to THE CHIEF for getting all those ESU cops the days off. Special thanks to PBA President Patrick Lynch and his entourage for their support.
|
|
