CULLMAN – There is a lot of fact and fiction behind why we celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, and what the true meaning behind the holiday really is. One thing that is for sure, however, is that here in the United States, we celebrate with vigor and flare, and Cullman on Tuesday was no exception.
All throughout town, green was the color of choice for clothing and decorations. Schools, stores and restaurants all found some way to celebrate the holiday. A popular choice to make the day even more festive than usual was to visit The Irish Chipper on 4th Street SW.
Martin Merriman is native to Ireland, but has made a home for himself here in Cullman with his wife Doris Merriman. It was a great day for the couple and their business as the restaurant was bursting with people at lunch and dinner.
“We weren’t expecting our turnout to be this big,” said Doris Merriman, co-owner. “We knew some were coming because we took reservations so we would have an idea of how much food we would need, but a lot more showed up. We were very, very pleased and were busy at lunch as well so we were thankful for that.”
While The Irish Chipper served up the corned beef and hash, the Celtic musical group “A Shamrock in Kudzu” from Blount County played a melodic tune for the guests. The patrons were delighted to listen to the group, according to Carolynn McCravy and Lou Thomas who came to celebrate from Holly Pond.
“We have really enjoyed this,” McCravy said. “It has been lots of fun. Our friend danced so, of course, we liked that but the food was good and the band was wonderful. It definitely had us in the spirit.”
On the other side of town, Grumpy’s Italian Grill was throwing their own celebration with music, green beer and little talk about the religious history of Saint Patrick and the holiday. While it may seem slightly unorthodox to hear a religious message at the venue, Rev. John Richter says that sometimes you have to go out to the people.
“The story of St. Patrick’s Day and the conversion of Ireland is a great story,” Richter said. “Saint Patrick sacrificed all to go back and share the message with his people and meeting where they were. So tonight to celebrate with the spiritual mindset of Patrick, what better place than here? We just want to have a good time with the people here and celebrate while remembering the love of Christ.”
Richter was joined by fellow church members and singers of the group Bel Amour who sang contemporary music with a folksy flare. Everyone out this Saint Patrick’s Day seemed to have found their luck with friends, family and good times.
