Kerry Jackson, of "Kerry, Bill and Gina," likes to joke that the reason he and his X96 morning show companions were chosen to lead the St. Patrick's Day Parade this Saturday is because "besides the Pride parade, St. Pat's is the only parade that will have us."

None of the trio are Irish, though Gina Barberi claims to be the descendent of Grania O'Malley, the Pirate Queen of Ireland.

In America, St. Paddy's Day has always been about celebrating diversity, religious, ethnic, even diversity of thought. The first parades predated the American Revolution and were held to protest the policies of the English Crown and our own, unfair treatment of Irish immigrants.

So it's fitting that three "Radio from Hell" personalities who helped save this year's parade from financial ruin with their edgy, off-colored humor would be honored with the title Grand Marshal.

Before the big day, the trio answered questions about the fundraising efforts and other Irish stuff during recent series of e-mail interviews with The Salt Lake Tribune.

Who put you up to this?

Kerry » When we heard that the parade might be in danger, we had the Hibernian Society of Utah on our show to help with fund-raising. Also, besides the Pride parade ... St. Pat's is the only parade that will have us.

The parade was nearly canceled for lack of funds. Why is it important to continue the tradition?

Bill » Who we are and where we come from is important. Our traditions are what make us who we are as a state.

Are any of you Irish?

Kerry » I'm a true mutt. But, if I could choose, I'd be Irish ... or Vulcan.

Gina » Well, Kerry and Bill don't believe me, but my Aunt Nan has done our family genealogy and discovered that we are related to Grania O'Malley, the Pirate Queen of Ireland. She gave birth to her first-born son below deck and was sword fighting rival pirates and hour later.

What does being Grand Marshal entail?

Bill » Grand Marshall means front of the parade. You signal that the best is yet to come, a VIP (very Irish Person).

Gina » I'm hoping it entails a sash and some kind of tiara. I've never had a tiara before.

Your favorite Irish food?

Kerry » Jameson whiskey

Bill » Corned beef and stuffed cabbage

Gina » Bangers and mash

What have the Irish contributed most to American or world history?

Gina » I think the Irish have contributed the most ... people. Isn't everybody in America half Irish?

What does St. Patrick's Day mean to you?

Kerry » Nothing really. Like I said, I don't have a heritage to boost, but I like a good party.

Bill » Parades and eating too much

Gina » On a somber note, my grandmother died on St. Patrick's Day so I like to pay tribute to her. She was a beautiful Irish woman.