O’Neill celebrates local legacy with new Irish Walk of Fame inductees

O’NEILL, Neb.— The O’Neill Walk of Fame officially has their newest members after the induction ceremony Wednesday. 

Taking place in the Irish Capital of Nebraska, every year O’Neill inducts new members into the Walk of Fame. 

This year the lucky ones were Jack and Donna McGinn and Charloette and her late husband Don Linquist. 

The McGinns came back to their hometown of O’Neill after starting their family in Omaha, the couple helped around town with many of the Irish celebrations this time of year, and according to the community, are a staple for the Irish roots of the town. 

Though when the couple learned they would be receiving this award, they didn’t believe it and joked the whole way through. 

“I kind of was shocked, but I stayed in Omaha because I didn't want people to think I voted for myself,” Donna said. 

“I didn’t vote for myself I voted for Dick,” Jack said. 

The Linquists were also a huge part of the Irish festivities here in O’Neill, where Charloette helped to start up the kids carnival for St. Patricks Day. 

Her and her husband Don prepared and organized almost all of the events from the parade to the painting of the giant shamrock and would be planning the events months in advance. But she too was in shock of her award. 

“I don't have words. And I don't.. Usually, I'm not at a loss for words, but this this has been wonderful,” Charloette said. 

The inductees are voted on by the Walk of Fame committee and both couples received a plaque to take home as well as a permanent one in the sidewalk on Highway 275.