James Leahy receives O'Connell Award

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James Leahy receives O'Connell Award

Updated: Sunday, 13 Jan 2013, 7:28 PM EST
Published : Sunday, 13 Jan 2013, 4:07 PM EST

HOLYOKE, Mass. (WWLP) - This was an important day for the people who keep the Holyoke St. Patrick's Parade running smoothly year after year.

The parade committee picked former parade president James Leahy to receive the prestigious O'Connell Award.

The O'Connell Award goes to the parade committee member whose contributed significantly to the parade fundraising.

“I feel elated, I'm humbled by it, I certainly didn't expect it, very very excited.”

Leahy was introduced by last year's O'Connell Award winner Kara Shanahan, the parade's Grand Colleen in 1994.

The 62nd annual Holyoke St. Patrick's Parade this year happens to fall on St. Patrick's Day, Sunday, March 17th.