The Old Grist Mill Tavern has hosted the Little Sisters of the Poor St. Patrick’s Day Dinner & Fundraiser for seventeen years and we are grateful to all who help preserve this wonderful tradition. “This annual event would not be possible without the support of so many, especially Karl Pelletier of Red Oak Hospitality, owner of the restaurant,” said Mother Patricia Mary. When asked in January if he would host again, Karl shared, “Our team is excited for this year’s event. Every year we anticipate the Little Sisters’ return to The Old Grist Mill Tavern. Kicking off the spring season by working with and giving back to the Little Sisters is a highlight for our team.”
The event is a very tangible example of the collective support from a variety of participants, including restaurant staff, generous vendors, benefactors and volunteers. Greg and Sue Esmay, Advisory Council members and previous tavern owners, play integral role in planning and logistics. The event would not be possible without them and we are grateful for their continued support.
We are also very grateful for dependable volunteers from our Home, the Navigant Credit Union VForce, and Four Echoes at Grist Mill Pond & Stone Coast Community Church. These helpful volunteers welcome and register more than 1000 guests, assist in the kitchen and dining room, and distribute more than 2000 scones, all baked with love by Mother Patricia Mary and the Little Sisters.
This year, guests were treated to traditional Irish music performed by acclaimed and award-winning Irish flute and tin whistle player, James Noonan. Noonan has performed at a number of premiere events in the United States. An adjunct professor at Boston College Irish Studies program and known as a ‘popular leader of the best Irish music sessions to be found in and around New England’ it was our privilege that Mr. Noonan shared his incredible talent with us. We thank Coastal1 Credit Union for making this possible.
We are grateful to many friends and benefactors who could not attend but offered support through generous donations and Pot of Gold participation. May God bless you all for your generous support of our mission.
