MCCARTYVILLE — Ideal weather made for a wonderful celebration of McCartyville’s Irish heritage. Due to respect for the corona virus, the St. Patrick’s Day committee was unable to use the Parish Activity Center. The carryout fish fry by the Knights of Columbus went well as all 800 pounds of fish were sold. The group has its best Irish jog on record with around 250 participants and a new course record was set by Lucas Huber with 1547. Placing second was Derek Billing and third was Craig Hoying.

The first female to finish was Samantha Aselage. Second place went to Erica Huber. Third place went to Courtney Delaney. The top three youths were Will Heilers, Eli Heilers and Brant Heitman.

The organization had a wonderful parade led by Queen Nichole Barhorst and the grand marshals, the 1994-1995 state champion cross country team. State cross country team members present were Coaches Dean Stewart and Craig Inman and Kenny Barlow, Matt Baumer, Jim Bensman, Tony Berner, Erik Fogt, Brett Hinsch, Will Inman, Adam Koppin, Brad Koverman, Jeff Maurer, Brad Schweitzer and Andy Ziegenbusch.

The committee hosted a wonderful putter golf challenge with nine holes located at different homes throughout the community. Money raised goes to a designated charity.

Renee Roberts held a Little Miss Shamrock pageant after the parade.

A best decorated house contest was held won by Gary and Kelly Schmitmeyer, with second place going to Dave and Denise Poeppelman. Third place went to John and Denise Koverman. There were many house parties and socializing at Patrick’s Pub.