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.