ICCANB Chapters - Miramichi Chapter
Chapter Executive Committee:
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| Celtic Cross on Middle Island viewed through the trees |
President: Lynn Doyle
Vice President: Dr. Michael Hayden
Secretary: Michaeleen McCarthy
Treasurer: Reg Flynn
Contact Number: (506) 622-5095
Email:
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The Miramichi Chapter covers the area of Northumberland County.
The Miramichi was the origin of the Irish Canadian Cultural Association of New Brunswick. In 1983, Farrell McCarthy of Miramichi founded the ICCA, with the goal of fostering an awareness and appreciation, in the province, of Irish history, heritage, traditions and artistic expressions.
The Miramichi has long had a significant Irish connection. But the chapter went non-active. This situation developed despite the fact that several Miramichiers remained active members in the Association provincially.
In early 2005, spearheaded by Lynn Doyle, a move was made to bring the Chapter back to active status.
A meeting held with Farrell McCarthy led to a decision to re-activate the Miramichi Chapter. It was decided to begin with some selected functions and a membership drive. The Chapter (ICCANB - MC) officially formed as of January 1, 2005, with support from the provincial association.
In March,2005, an Irish mass was held at St. Patrick's Church in Nelson-Miramichi, with a group of talented local musicians providing musical accompaniment. This was arranged with the active involvement of the Chapter.
In May,2005, a "Membership Social" was held at the Goodie Shop Restaurant, again with entertainment provided by a group of talented local musicians, as well as the Nelson Doyle Dancers. Forty new memberships were garnered on the evening.
In June,2005, the ICCANB - MC awarded two bursaries to local high school graduates (of Irish descent).
In July,2005, the chapter was involved in Canada's Irish Festival on the Miramichi. The Chapter set up an information and membership booth at the Lord Beaverbook Arena, which served as the social hub for the Festival. The Chapter also planned and organized an outdoor concert to coincide with the Festival, but this was cancelled due to inclement weather.
In September,2005, the Miramichi Chapter held its first formal meeting to elect an Executive.
In early October,2005, the Miramichi Chapter played host to the provincial Annual Meeting of the Irish-Canadian Cultural Association of New Brunswick. It was noted, with Lynn Doyle's first report for the Chapter to an Annual Meeting, that the Miramichi Chapter already had accumulated 130 memberships, one of the highest Chapter counts in the province.
In late November,2005, the Chapter hosted a "Christmas Ceilidh", with musical entertainment,singing and readings. This was most successful with a great turnout and a good time had by all.
In February,2006, the Chapter was involved in the Heritage Week events, in particular a presentation done by Cyril Donahue on Miramichi Irish in the 1800's.
The Chapter has also developed its own brochure and membership materials. The Chapter's goals include maintenance and expansion of its membership base, and the organization of at least seasonal community events -- all designed to preserve and promote the Irish influence in our region.
The Miramichi Chapter continues to be active in their community and encourage anyone wishing to join or wanting additional information to contact us through the email address above.
Celebrating our Patron Saint Tuesday March 17th!
The Miramichi chapter of the Irish Canadian Cultural Association of N.B. is once again organizing music and entertainment for the St. Patrick’s Day Celebrations at St. Patrick’s church 12 St. Patrick’s Drive in Nelson-Miramichi!
Come join us Tuesday at 3:15 in the afternoon for entertainment before Mass. Featured soloists will include Paula Foley and Terry Gadsden, Jo-Anne Lynch, Carmel McTavish and Lynn Doyle. Joining us will be Kevin Driscoll.
Come listen or sing along to all your favourite Irish “songs” before Mass begins.
Mass at 4 o’clock with Fr. Jim McQuaid. St. Mary’s Folk choir will again join St. Patrick’s Folk choir in the music ministry for the mass. Hymns will be “Hail Glorious St. Patrick”, “Lady of Knock”, and “With Glowing Hearts” (to the tune of Danny Boy).
There will only be one collection at this mass at that will take place before Mass begins. This collection is a fundraiser for the Miramichi chapter and is used solely for the purpose of bursaries for local students to further their education. Last year the chapter awarded $2,500 dollars in the amount of $500 each to 5 local students. Receiving bursaries were January Mullin, Jordan Ryan, Deandra Doyle, Courtney Flanagan and Ben O’Toole all from area schools. So along with enjoying St. Patrick’s Day you’ll be helping with the cost of university for local students.
Looking very festive the well decorated Parish centre will be serving a lovely supper of Ham and Scallop with a green dessert, tea and coffee all for $7.00 or $4.00 for children. 430 till 630.
Then at 7 o’clock at Nelson Rural School Ellen Doyle McDonald will have her annual Irish concert featuring the Nelson Doyle Dancers and local entertainers. Free will offering at the door. Fudge Sale!
So put on something green and come join us for a wonderful St. Paddy’s day. Cead Mile Failte |