2009 Grand Marshal

 

 

Meet Dick Bourke, Chairman of the Irish Tourist Industry Federation and our 2009 Wearin' of the Green Grand Marshal. We proudly introduce this Chairman, College of Fellows, Irish Hospitality Institute and Director of the National Tourist Development Authority. His distinguished career in the hospitality business includes being a past president of the Irish Hotels Federation and former General Manager of one of Ireland's largest and best known Dublin hotels' named Jurys. In addition to his distinctive professional involvement, he is also a past president of the Cork City Chamber of Commerce.

Dick Bourke is recognized as a proud son of Cashel in County Tipperary, the ancient Seat of High Kings of Ireland. He is married to The Beautiful Theresa and has deposited four sons around the globe. One lives in Ireland, one in Canada, one in Spain and one in China. He has two lovely daughter-in-laws and two gorgeous granddaughters, Lauren and Katlyn.

 

During his visit in Baton Rouge, Dick will explain the origins of a "Rufus Hog". Should you have a moment to meet him, please ask him what a Rufus Hog is and how he feels about being one. This is one of Irelan's best known tourism personalities and we are pleased to have him.

Accompanying Mr. Bourke on his trip to Baton Rouge will be Denis Coffey (2004), Junior Finnegan (2005), and his man-servant, Dickey Dyedoe.