Honor Al O'Hagan's Legacy

Senate Resolution No. 4374 BY: Senator GOLDEN HONORING Al O'Hagan posthumously for special recognition with a Plaque Dedication by Hibernian Baile Na Gael, Inc. on March 31, 2018 WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body, in keeping with its time-honored traditions, to recognize and pay tribute to those individuals and organizations which foster ethnic pride and enhance the profile of cultural diversity which strengthens the fabric of the communities of New York State; and WHEREAS, In the faithful performance of his duties and responsibilities, Al O'Hagan's efforts and notable achievements significantly contributed to bettering the quality of life in his community; and WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to honor Al O'Hagan posthumously for special recognition with a Plaque Dedication by Hibernian Baile Na Gael, Inc. to be celebrated at its Gerritsen Beach 9th Annual St. Patrick's Parade Celebration on Saturday, March 31,

2018 in Brooklyn, New York; and WHEREAS, Born on February 28, 1935, Al O'Hagan was a vital resident of Gerristsen Beach, Brooklyn; he spent most of his adult life serving as an unwavering advocate and a strong voice for children, the impoverished, and Irish people; and WHEREAS, Some of his many accomplishments include: serving as New York State President and National Director of the Ancient Order of Hibernians, and Grand Marshal of the 1986 New York City St. Patrick's Day Parade; his appointment by Mayor Abraham Beame as the City-wide Chairman for the massive Bicentennial celebrations, specifically to celebrate the Irish contributions to America; founding the Great Irish Fair, an annual event in Coney Island Brooklyn, and the Bay Ridge and Park Slope St. Patrick's Day Parade; in conjunction with Mayor Abraham Beame, declared December 15, 1976 "Bing Crosby Day" as he was awarded "Irishman of the Century"; organized Hibernian Baile Na Gael, Inc.; credited with causing the rebirth of Coney Island; formed the first Boys and Girls Club in Brooklyn; served as CEO of the Coney Island Chamber of Commerce; and was a member of the Community School Board, District 22 for 18 years; and WHEREAS, For his many numerous accomplishments and for his steadfast and unremitting commitment to children, the impoverished, and Irish people, Al O'Hagan was proudly named an Outstanding Irishman by former President Bill Clinton; and WHEREAS, Al O'Hagan died on October 26, 2016, at the age of 85; and WHEREAS, Al O'Hagan was the beloved husband of the former Catherine Fahey; devoted father of Sheila (Kevin) McGirl and Shaun (Jessica) O'Hagan; and loving grandfather of six grandchildren, Kieran, Siobhan, Sean, Kayla, Ryan and Norah; dear brother of three sisters, Ethel Karnbach, Patricia Rooney and the late Marlene Doane; and two brothers, Brian and James O'Hagan; as well as the proud uncle of 42 nieces and nephews; and WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that those who enhanced the well-being and vitality of their community and showed a long and sustained commitment to excellence certainly earned the recognition and applause of all the citizens of this great Empire State; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to honor Al O'Hagan posthumously for special recognition with a Plaque Dedication by Hibernian Baile Na Gael, Inc. on March 31, 2018; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to the family of Al O'Hagan.