Preview by Brad Balfour
What: 50th Anniversary Diamond Jubilee Gala
Who: The Irish Business Organization of New York!
When: October 24, 2023
Where: Chelsea Piers
On Tuesday, Oct. 24. 2023, New York’s Irish Business Organization will commemorates its 50th anniversary with a “Celebration of the Irish in New York.” For the past 50 years, the IBO has welcomed those coming to the United States through the port of New York. It has offered a place for those newcomers and longtime residents to bond and help them build a sense of community, advancing their business and professional lives. The IBO’s ethos — “Network, Communicate, Reciprocate” — was nurtures and realize many times over in these 50 years.
Founded in 1973, IBO provides more than 25 events a year including monthly evening events, monthly business breakfasts, a quarterly women’s networkers, and other member events.
Given all that, having it held at the spectacular Chelsea Piers seems appropriate since the space overlooks the harbor that was the first port-of-call for many of the Irish diaspora. This 50th Anniversary Jubilee Gala will feature a full buffet dinner, extended open bar, live music from the legendary Sean Fleming Band, as well as the renowned Niall O’Leary and his Irish dancers. There will also be a Poitín tasting courtesy of Smuggling Nun and Copeland Distillery and a Golden Raffle for a trip to Ireland.
This all takes place against the dramatic, sparkling backdrop of the Hudson River at night. Emceed by past IBO president Attracta Lyndon and former executive board member Dr. Ciaran Grant,“The Celebration of Ireland in New York”will honor five outstanding organizations and one stellar individual who have served the New York Irish community in exemplary ways:
The United Irish Counties Association–Community Leadership Award
The Irish Repertory Theatre–Cultural Leadership Award
Glucksman Ireland House–Distinguished Service to Education Award
The Ireland Funds–Distinguished Service in Global Philanthropy Award
Bank of Ireland–Excellence in Financial Services Award
Mary Burke — the Arthur F. Clements Founder’s Award for a lifetime of selfless service to the community in her welcoming role at Rosie O’Grady’s
With all this in mind, current IBO president Paul Finnegan has said, “The IBO plays a vital role in the New York Irish community. Our programs assisting the newest members of our business community, our entrepreneurs, and women in business are more relevant than ever. We stand on the shoulders of many and look forward to future years of impactful service. Our celebration of Ireland in New York with such a stellar lineup of honorees, is the perfect theme for our Gala.”
With IBO members, friends, and supporters attending this festive evening it’s not only been 50 years in the making, but it’s a great way to kick off the organization into the next 50 years.
To attend, cocktail attire is requested, befitting this once-only “Celebration of Ireland in New York!” Secure tickets for the 50th Anniversary Jubilee Gala in advance at www.ibonewyork.org