St. Paddy's Day Pride

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By Katie Ussin

Story Published: Mar 17, 2010 at 6:49 PM MST

Story Updated: Mar 17, 2010 at 6:49 PM MST

BILLINGS - Wednesday the Irish flag flew over Billings.

"Just showing everyone that the Irish heritage lives not just in Butte, America but also in Billings," said Bill Kennedy. The idea was that of the Irish commissioner for Yellowstone County. "We're trying to start a tradition," he said.

St. Patrick's Day began as a purely Catholic holiday, but has become a popular secular celebration of Ireland's culture. Stella's Kitchen and Bakery served up classics like corn beef and cabbage and Irish soda bread.

"Baking soda, baking soda, that's the levening for it," said Stella Ziegler. It is not just about what you eat, but also about what you wear, and it better be green.

"I got some weird looks and smiles and I just smile back," laughed Debbie LeCompte. LeCompte was wearing a bright green wig and clothing. Mrs. Burke's class at St. Francis Upper School got jiggy with it and performed their best Irish dance. The Butte native said she does it every year with her students as a fun way to celebrate the holiday.

There is one rule on St. Paddy's Day and that is to wear green. There were a few rule breakers in Billings on Wednesday.

"I haven't worn green on St. Paddy's Day since my parents stopped dressing me in grade school," laughed Darryl Asher.

Kara Jovanovich wore her green with pride. "I love St. Patrick's Day," she said with a shamrock scarf tied around her neck. "My dad was Irish and there was always music and dancing."

Her young son and his friend also wore their green with pride, but could not say what their favorite thing about being Irish was. One thing is for sure though, on St. Patrick's Day there can be a little Irish in all of us.

The annual St. Patricks Day parade in downtown Billings was held Saturday March 13th this year.

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