On behalf of the St. Patrick’s Committee of Holyoke, it is my great pleasure to welcome you to this year’s Homecoming Weekend, a cherished Holyoke tradition for over 70 years.
As a Frenchman from Chicopee, it is both humbling and an incredible honor to serve as the 2025 Parade President. This weekend is about so much more than just the road race and the world-famous parade. It’s about family — the bonds that unite us, the shared spirit of community, and the legacy of pride that we carry forward. I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to my parade committee family. Your dedication and hard work have gone above and beyond this year, and for that, I am eternally thankful.
Though the festivities unfold in our great city of Holyoke, it is important to remember that this is a regional celebration. Without the unwavering support of our neighboring parade committees, volunteers, and sponsors, this remarkable Homecoming Weekend would not be possible. We are Western Mass Strong, and this weekend, we proudly demonstrate that strength.
To Mayor Garcia and his office, the public safety teams, the Department of Public Works, and everyone who ensures our safety and success this weekend—thank you for your tireless commitment and support. Your efforts are deeply appreciated.
It is my true honor to recognize our distinguished award recipients for 2025, who truly embody the spirit of the Irish community. This year, we celebrate Bridget Moynahan, our John F. Kennedy National Award recipient, and Frederick L. Sullivan, our Ambassador Award recipient. These two remarkable individuals have made outstanding contributions to our community, and we are proud to honor them during this special weekend.
We are also privileged to have James (Jim) Lavelle as our Grand Marshal. Jim has been a long-time supporter of the parade committee and is a true community partner. I am honored to march alongside Jim and his family down the streets of Holyoke.
We are equally proud to present the Citizenship Award to Father Robert (Bob) Gentile, who has spent countless years providing comfort, compassion, and spiritual guidance to everyone he meets. Father Bob, your dedication to our community is inspiring, and we are grateful for all you have done and continue to do.
L to R- Holyoke St. Patrick’s Day Parade committee members Jim Wildman, John Beaulieu, and Joe Morrison at the 68th Annual Colleen Pageant presented by the St. Patrick’s Committee of Holyoke, Inc. taking place at Holyoke High School on January 6th. (Ed Cohen Photo)
Edward Cohen
Additionally, I would like to congratulate our committee award recipients: Devin Sheehan, who is receiving the Rohan Award; Jeff Walsh, this year’s recipient of the O’Connell Award; and James Meenaghan, honored with the Gallivan Award. What an outstanding team we have, and I am privileged to march with each of you on Parade Day.
A special congratulations also goes to our Grand Colleen and her Court. I wish you joy and happiness as you celebrate your Irish heritage and the spirit of fellowship that defines this community.
To my fellow parade committee members—what an extraordinary group of people you are. To call you my family is an understatement. We might not always agree on everything, but come Parade Day, we pull together to create a spectacular celebration that brings joy to all. I am grateful to each and every one of you.
Lastly, I want to express my deepest gratitude to my own family. To my wife Patty, your love and support make all of this possible, and I couldn’t do it without you. To my children Miranda, Shane, and Ryan, and my granddaughters Everly and Harper, thank you for your constant encouragement. Your love is a gift I cherish every day.
Please enjoy the festivities of Homecoming Weekend 2025 and remember — there is truly no better place to be Irish than right here in Holyoke this weekend.
Holyoke Strong!
– John R. Beaulieu, 2025 Parade President
