Tools

Irish flag raised at Utica City Hall

By NEWSChannel 2 Staff

Story Created: Mar 6, 2013 at 5:56 PM EDT

Story Updated: Mar 6, 2013 at 6:21 PM EDT

UTICA, N.Y. (WKTV) - Utica City Hall went Irish on Wednesday with an Irish Flag Raising in preparation for the annual St. Patrick's Day parade.

Members of the local Irish community were on hand for the flag raising, one of several Irish-themed events leading up to the Utica parade.

This year's parade Grand Marshal, Fire Chief Russell Brooks, says that first and foremost, he's an American, but that it still makes him feel good to see the contributions and accomplishments of those who share his Irish heritage, recognized.

"Utica was basically founded by the Irish," Chief Brooks said. "First mayor in the city, John Devereaux, was from Ireland. He also founded the Savings Bank, built St. John's Church, and just many, many other accomplishments."

Bagpipes rounded out Wednesday's festivities at city hall and the parade heads down Genesee Street on Saturday at 10 a.m.

What's On