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Delegates Dinner
November 21, 2008

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The NYPD Emerald Society held the Annual Delegates Dinner Friday, November 21, 2008 at the Hudson Council, Knights of Columbus hall in Woodside, Queens. A blast of cold winter-like air arrived early in NYC, and the cozy warmth of friendship was appreciated by our members and guests. President Timothy Bergin and 1st Vice President Sean Patterson welcomed the assembly of Board Officers, Delegates and VIPs. The evening began with hor 'deorves and drinks, while The Moonshiners Band, a duet this night, provided music. Tommy O'Callaghan and Joe O'Brien represented the band and greeted everyone entering the room with songs. They set a warm and sociable ambience that spread through the gathering. Chairman Donnie Rogers served as the emcee for the evening's line up. First up President Bergin thanked all the delegates in the room for joining us, he assured them that their dedication and support of the Society is very much appreciated. The next part of the program was the awarding of plaques, recognizing the "Irish in the Media" for their support of Irish culture and commitment to the NYPD Emerald Society. This year's honorees were from Fordham University's radio station, WFUV-90.7 FM. Ashling Colton and Kevin Quinn serve as disc jockeys during the station's Sunday afternoon broadcast of Ceol na nGael, the "Music of the Irish" show. The highly acclaimed radio show features an assortment of Irish music, interviews, community event announcements along with news and sports from Ireland. Listeners can tune in any Sunday and enjoy an array of music. A considerable amount of the songs they feature are from local NY area bands. Kevin and Ashling also keep their loyal audience well apprised of events happening locally. The not-for-profit, listener supported station, transmits from the school's Bronx Campus. They have cultivated a strong following of NYPD fans over the years. It seems not a week goes by, that a dedication is not made to a member of the NYPD, particularly an Emerald Society member. They are often made in memory of a loved one, and sometimes as congratulations to member's recent achievement or personal milestone. The first-rate production is "must hear radio" for New York's Irish. That being the case, a third Emerald Society Plaque was presented to the WFUV staff, representing the totality of their good work. Accepting the award on behalf of the station's workforce were the show's producers Maggie Dolan and Liz Noonan. As the radio team stood by the podium, Kevin Quinn spoke first, he thanked Bergin for the Society's recognition. He said he was honored to have his family present for this special night. Kevin mentioned that he was able to attend an Emerald meeting earlier this month at St. Andrew Church, and he was fast making friends with the NYPD. He was impressed with all the hustle and bustle of business and activity taking place that night. He drew a laugh, as he related that he met Joe O'Brien at the meeting and while sitting at a table Joe said "where else can you go in NYC, say a prayer and have a beer in the basement of a church?" Ashling Colton told of her surprise when she found out she was selected for the Emerald award. She remembered how a co-worker at the station said "there's a cop outside the studio and he wants to talk to you." She thought he was going to request some type of announcement be made during the show. She said she was totally caught by surprise when Bronx VP Brendan Nolan gave her the news. Ashling told the crowd that she was much more nervous tonight speaking in front of a live audience, then on a Sunday with 75,000 radio listeners. She went on to say she was glad to meet so many people in person that enjoy her show, and how grateful she was that her family was invited to this important night. Speaking for the WFUV staff was Maggie Dolan, who at one time shared the D.J. microphones with Liz Noonan as co-host of Ceol na nGael. She expressed the sincere gratitude of everyone at the station and that she really enjoyed being with the members of the Emerald Society. Maggie, Liz, Ashling and Kevin appeared to make many new fans and friends during the remainder of the evening. The two tables of the honorees' friends and family were all smiles throughout the entire night. They had much to be proud of as the four young award winners were outstanding representatives of Fordham University. The distinguished foursome no doubt has many years of success and accomplishments awaiting them.

Next up was a performance by the NYPD Pipes & Drums. Drum Major Phil Thompson led a contingent of three dozen into the center of the room, as everyone quickly stood up. After the first set of songs, Piper Andy McEvoy requested a moment-of-silence in honor of the late Police Officer Deon Taylor, last assigned to Brooklyn North Narcotics. Taylor was killed in action last month while serving a second tour of duty in Afghanistan. He was a member of the 27th Infantry Division, NY Army National Guard. As the hero was saluted the room became solemn and heads were bowed. A sad and all too familiar rendition of Amazing Grace followed, as a brother officer was memorialized. Shortly thereafter the Band marched off to an inspirational Garyowen. Well deserved applause followed the Band as they exited. Afterwards dinner and conversation was shared in the busy room. The night was filled with good cheer and countless photos recorded another great gathering for the Emeralds.

As promised it was a memorable night for the NYPD Emerald Society. Thanks to the help of our friends The Moonshiners, the support and the tradition of our Pipes & Drums, our hardworking delegates and our young friends from Fordham!

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