The image is a photograph taken during the 1984 St. Patrick's Parade in front of Caronna's Bar at 2036 Magazine Street. Councilmember Early is wearing the green top hat (and holding a can of Budweiser). Standing next to him is Criminal Court Judge James F. McKay.

Mike Early, a third generation Irish-American, served on the New Orleans City Council, representing District C, from 1976-1990. Though no longer in public office, he remains involved in local politics and civic affairs. Judge McKay was elected to serve on the Criminal District Court in 1982; he has been on the Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals since 1998. In addition to his judicial duties, Judge McKay has been very active in Irish-American organizations locally and nationally for many years. He is currently involved in preparing for the annual convention of the Ancient Order of Hibernians in America to be held in the Crescent City at the end of July.