Employee Spotlight: Mary Crane Orne
Mary Crane Orne, senior account manager, has been working for Gas South for more than two years. Born and raised in Savannah, Georgia, Orne is looking forward to the biggest celebration of the year in her hometown on St. Patrickās Day. With the holiday quickly approaching, we spoke with Orne to learn more about her family traditions surrounding the holiday and the town that hosts the celebration every year.
What are some of the things you and your family do in Savannah to celebrate St. Patrickās Day?
Growing up, I was in the choir at an all-girls Catholic school, St. Vincentās Academy, and we would sing a few times each week during the month leading up to St. Patrickās Day throughout different locations in the city. We sang at various events and for numerous groups ā including nursing homes, the airport, restaurants and festivals for the grand marshal. Attending some of the events continues to be a tradition for my family during the weeks leading up to the big day.
The "Greening of the Fountain" ceremony is held the Friday before St. Patrickās Day in Forsyth Park and the Saturday before the 17th, we attend both the Tybee Island Parade and the Tara Feis Irish Celebration. The celebration is a festival located downtown with Irish dancing, food, crafts and live music.
On the morning of St. Patrickās Day, my family and I attend mass at the Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist for the feast day of Saint Patrick. After mass, everyone in Savannah quickly finds a place on the street to get the best view of the parade. We set up our spot inside Chippewa Square, which is known for the famous park bench scenes from āForrest Gump.ā Once our spot is claimed, we set up tents, tables, chairs and plenty of food and drink for all, and wait patiently for the parade to start!
What do you enjoy most about St. Patrickās Day in Savannah?
The St. Patrickās Day parade is a ācoming homeā for many Savannahians, so Iām looking forward to seeing old friends. Iām also looking forward to seeing the grand marshal, the families of past grand marshals, school groups, bands and other groups in the parade. Once the parade is over, Iāll find a pub ā all of which are Irish on March 17th ā listen to bagpipers and try my luck at Irish dancing!
What would you tell someone considering a trip to Savannah during St. Patrickās Day?
Make sure you wear comfortable shoes and come ready to have a great time! The city closes down for the celebration and towards River Street itās a wild party, but away from the river, a lot of families enjoy the festivities together.
One last tip ā on St. Patrickās Day, when someone greets you with the phrase, āTop of the morninā to yaā ā you must respond back saying, āAnd the rest of the day to you.ā
Erin go bragh!