Senate Resolution No. 468

BY: Senator GRIFFO

COMMENDING the Justin F. Kelly Chapter of The
Friendly Sons of St. Patrick upon the occasion of
hosting its 110th Annual Dinner Celebration on March
13, 2025

WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to pay tribute to
individuals and organizations of true purpose and worthy accomplishment
who work diligently to preserve and celebrate their rich cultural
heritage; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
commend the Justin F. Kelly Chapter of The Friendly Sons of St. Patrick
upon the occasion of hosting its 110th Annual Dinner Celebration on
Thursday, March 13, 2025, at Twin Ponds Golf and Country Club; and

WHEREAS, The Justin F. Kelly Chapter of The Friendly Sons of St.
Patrick in Oneida County, New York, is a longstanding organization
dedicated to preserving and promoting Irish heritage and culture in the
Mohawk Valley Region; and

WHEREAS, This vital organization is committed to fostering Irish
cultural pride, celebrating Irish heritage, and supporting the local
community through charitable efforts; the chapter's hallmark events
include sponsorship of the Utica St. Patrick's Day Parade and hosting
its Annual Dinner Celebration, as well as donating to local charities
and supporting community initiatives; and

WHEREAS, The Friendly Sons of St. Patrick, of which the Justin F.
Kelly Chapter is a part, has a long and distinguished history dating
back to its founding in Philadelphia in 1771; initially established to
aid Irish immigrants, the organization has evolved over the centuries to
include a wide range of cultural, educational, and charitable
activities; and

WHEREAS, The society's enduring legacy is rooted in its commitment
to fostering ties between Ireland and the United States while supporting
those in need; this chapter carries this legacy forward in Oneida
County, embodying the spirit of the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick through
its dedication to Irish heritage, charitable giving, and community
engagement; and

WHEREAS, The Justin F. Kelly Chapter upholds the values and
traditions of The Friendly Sons of St. Patrick by celebrating the life
and legacy of St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland; through its
events and charitable work, the chapter cultivates a sense of unity and
pride among individuals of Irish descent in the Utica area; and

WHEREAS, Incoming President Jeffrey Isherwood is a first-generation
American with ancestry traced back to the Cavan region of Ireland; for
over 20 years, he has been an active member of the Friendly Sons of St.
Patrick and a proud member of the Ancient Order of Hibernians in Utica;
additionally, he actively participates in the Irish Cultural Center

activities and marches annually in the St. Patrick's Day Parades in
Utica and Camden; and

WHEREAS, Jeffrey Isherwood also works with the City of Rome, New
York, each year to raise the Irish flag on St. Patrick's Day - a proud
celebration of the town's Irish heritage; as the incoming President of
the Justin F. Kelly Chapter, Jeffrey brings decades of dedication to
preserving and promoting Irish culture, ensuring that the traditions of
the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick continue to thrive for generations to
come; and

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that when
individuals and organizations of such noble aims and accomplishments are
brought to our attention, they should be celebrated and recognized by
all the citizens of the great State of New York; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commend the Justin F. Kelly Chapter of The Friendly Sons of St. Patrick
upon the occasion of hosting its 110th Annual Dinner Celebration on
March 13, 2025; and be it further

RESOLVED, That copies of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the Justin F. Kelly Chapter of The Friendly Sons of St.
Patrick and Incoming President Jeffrey Isherwood.