Our Holy Father, Pope John Paul II has told us that: “Lent is a time of profound truth which brings conversion, restores hope, and by putting everything back in its proper place, brings peace and optimism.”
During the season of Lent we are often reminded in our Mass prayers and readings of the need for repentance and renewal. The repentance envisioned is a change of mind and heart, to the extent that we need it so that we may become more holy, more Christ-like, in our attitudes and life.
Our repentance during Lent calls us to prayer and fasting. I can remember my Dad, who liked to have a little drink now and then, but during Lent he would always give up his shot and beer, except for one day – St. Patrick’s Day. He claimed that since this day was a “holyday”, it was not part of Lent.
Just as at times we need to change directions in our careers and our life endeavors, so in the spiritual realm we need to examine and evaluate our status and perhaps make a change of direction. Sometimes it will have to be a conversion or turning around of our life.
One of the great needs of people today is to return to a religious sense. There is a great need to return to God. Unfortunately, today our concern may be for the material, the secular, the here and now. Such concern may be necessary because God does expect us to take care of ourselves in this life to the extent that we are able and to provide for those who depend on us for material support and sustenance.
However, if material goods are our only concern, to the detriment of our spiritual good, then we stand in need or correction and conversion. Repentance is needed.
Repentance, such as it is preached to us during Lent, is not simply a matter of avoiding sin.
Hopefully we all do this to the best of our ability. True repentance or conversion means doing good for others, letting our faith bear fruit in a harvest of charitable deeds. As Hibernians we do this by our various works of charity and mission work.
Prayer, self-discipline, acts of mercy are the recommended means of making ourselves ready for eternity now.
Make Lent a time of conversion, make Lent a time of good works, make Lent a time in which we truly live out the virtues of Unity, Fraternity and Christian Charity. May the blessings of St. Patrick continue to abide with all of you during the celebrations of our Irish Heritage.
With every blessing and best wish, -- Father Tom O’Donnell, A.O.H. Allegheny County and Pennsylvania State Chaplain
We always have last-minute requests for ads and tickets. That is why we are following up with this e-mail for those who put off till tomorrow that which should have been done yesterday.
The annual St. Patrick's Day Mass and Communion Breakfast will be celebrated on the Sunday preceding the St. Patrick's Day Parade. This traditional gathering, sponsored jointly by the AOH-Allegheny County Board and Division Nine "Oakland Irish" is the largest observance of its kind in Western Pennsylvania. This annual event attracts more than 500 Hibernians and friends.
The 2009 Mass will be offered at the Sheraton Station Square, Ballroom No. 3, located at 300 West Station Square Drive on Sunday, March 8, 2009 at 10 a.m. The celebrant will be Bishop David A. Zubik (AOH Div.#21 member).
Immediately following the Mass will be the breakfast and a brief program. We are honoring Fr. Tom O'Donnell, the AOH Pennsylvania State, Allegheny County Board and Division #1 Chaplain, as the AOH Allegheny County Hibernian Of The Year and our Parade Grand Marshal, Dorothy Flaherty Weldon, Immediate Past LAOH National President.
Parking is avaiable at the hotel lot or directly across the the street.
In concert with this prestigious affair, we are preparing a souvenir program book.
By placing an advertisement or a message in this momentous publication you will be in communication with this large Irish community.
In addition, your support will help preserve and enhance the Irish culture, ethnicity and tradition that are so important to all of us.
Some patrons use this book to promote their business, organization or, on a personal note, to remember deceased family members or friends. We hope you take advantage of this extremely cost-effective opportunity before the Feb. 26 deadline.
The rates for the ads are as follows: Full page ad.....$110. (5" x 8") 1/2 Page ad.....$60. (5" x 4") 1/4 Page ad.... $35. (5" x 2")
Send aAd and check, made out to AOH Divison Nine to Jack Haggarity Five Perity Lane Pittsburgh, PA 15220 TEL: Home 412-922-5177 TEL: Work 412-386-6464
For Table reservations and Tickets please e-mail John McEvoy at jmcevoy311@comcast.net or call him at 412-431-7196 or Michael J. McGeever at mmcgeever@comcast.net or call him at 412-350-5731.
Cost of Breakfast Tickets are $20. per person or $200. for a table of ten.
Our Junior Division at Bishop Canevin High School has tentatively scheduled March 25 for a trip to Gettysburg. Please contact Bear O'Connell if you'd like to be a chaperone - he could use a few good men!
If you've never been to Gettysburg, or it's been a long time since you visited, you are encouraged to go because it's an insightful and informative trip about the famous Irish Brigade - and the kids are great!
Also, please note that about 22 kids are going to Old St. Patrick's church in the Strip on Monday, 3/2 for noon Mass. All members are welcome to attend!
Brothers of Division 32 ... and offspring and friends,
Applications are available for the 2009 Thomas P. O'Malley Memorial Scholarship Award.
Complete rules, plus the application and the entry form, are available from Bernie Donnelly.Phone him at 412-279-8220 or email him at BadLep2@comcast.net.
Note that the entry form must be filled out by one's school district guidance department or the equivalent and that other requirements include a letter from one's parish priest, so there's much to do before the entry and application may be turned in.
Final applications and entries are due no later than April 15 to Jim Green, chairman of the AOL scholarship committee, 16 W. Bellecrest Ave., Pittsburgh PA 15227-2408.
Forty-one members of Division 32 still have not paid their 2009 dues.
We're quickly closing in on the deadline for paying a portion of those dues to national headquarters.
If you haven't already paid $25 for your 2009 dues renewal, please mail or deliver the cash or check pronto to financial secretary Bernie Donnelly at 1358 Raven Drive, Pittsburgh PA 15243.
Murphy was 77 years old and had worked 80 hours a week all his life and never had a holiday. His children were all married and his wife had died. He decided to enjoy life. He had a face lift, got a new expensive toupee, bought ten new suits and a brand new car. One evening he got all dressed up in a new suit, new tie, put on his toupee, and got into his new car and drove off towards Dublin. He was only gone a mile when he was killed in an accident. On arrival in heaven, he walked over to St. Peter and said, "What's going on here? All my life I worked hard, and finally, when I had everything in place to enjoy myself, I was killed. Why? Why did you let it happen?" St. Peter ducked his head in embarrassment and said, "Well, to tell you the truth I didn't recognize you."
Since we've been posting "This Week in Irish History" and "This Day in Irish History" for over a year, we're going to cancel further postings and turn to a new weekly history feature we think you'll like.
Starting in mid March - during the high holy days of the season of St. Patrick - we'll be featuring a weekly post of the each of the Top 100 most famous Irish men and women.
Here are a few more travel sites to inspire you to travel to Ireland or simply enjoy some Irish entertainment. Courtesy of a cool site Irish Fireside, here is their list of the Best Websites for dreaming about Ireland:
www.Ireland360.com Enjoy these spectacular interactive 360˚ views of various sites in Ireland.
www.comhaltas.ie Witness traditional Irish song and dance in their video section.
www.IrelandExpert.com Pat Preston’s Irish travel resource with a great forum to ask your questions
www.IrelandYes.com Michele Erdvig’s Irish travel resource with a great forum to ask your questions
Pat Preston over at www.IrelandExpert.com has a new blog post outlining the travel outlook in Ireland in 2009. Recession has hit the Emerald Isle and that has a few positive effects for those traveling from the US…your dollar is a bit stronger, there are fewer tourists, accommodations are more competitive (especially on the higher end) and tour companies are offering discounts.
February 21 1775 - Edward Denny, MP for Tralee, commits suicide 1760 - François Thurot lands French forces at Carrickfergus in Belfast Lough, increasing English anxiety about an Irish-Catholic alliance with the French. 1822 - Birth in Dublin of Richard Southwell Bourke, 6th Earl of Mayo; Viceroy and Governor-General of India 1893 - Peadar O'Donnell, revolutionary and writer, is born in Co. Donegal 1922 - The Garda Síochána na h-Eireann - Guardians of the Peace of Ireland - is founded 1999 - Seven men, including senior figures in the Real IRA. are arrested in connection with the Omagh bombing - five in the Republic and two by the RUC in the North, in a simultaneous operation 2000 - A new survey reveals that Dubliners have more disposable income than people living in other parts of Ireland 2001 - The country's multi billion pound livestock industry is on full alert for signs of foot and mouth disease after the first outbreak in Britain for twenty years is confirmed in pigs 2001 - Ronnie Drew becomes one of the first non-sportsmen to receive a Posthouse Legend in Life award 2001 - The British and Irish Governments are considering proposals for round table talks involving the Northern Ireland parties amid growing pessimism about the peace process 2001 - Desmond O'Connell becomes the first Archbishop of Dublin in over 100 years to be installed as a Cardinal. A large Irish contingent from Church and State, along with family and friends of the Cardinal attend the installation which for the first time takes place at the front of the entrance to St Peter’s Basilica 2003 - A rare political letter written by Michael Collins fetches a record price of €28,000 at an auction in James Adam showrooms on Dublin’s Stephen’s Green. Despite fierce bidding by the National Library, the letter is purchased by singer Enya’s manager Mickey Ryan who says he wants the letter to remain in Ireland.
February 20 1742 - James Gandon, architect and builder of the Customs House, the Four Courts and other Dublin buildings, is born in London 1794 - Birth near Clogher, Co. Tyrone of William Carleton, one of the most graphic writers about the Famine. He is best known for his Traits and Stories of the Irish Peasantry 1874 - Gladstone resigns; a Conservative administration under Disraeli takes over 1882 - Birth of Padraic Ó Conaire, writer and poet, in Galway 1892 - First performance of Oscar Wilde’s Lady Windermere’s Fan 1989 - IRA bombs Tern Hill barracks in Shropshire 1998 - In a face-to-face meeting with Northern Secretary Mo Mowlam and Foreign Affairs Minister David Andrews at Stormont, Gerry Adams is told that Sinn Féin is suspended from the peace talks for just under three weeks 1998 - Taoiseach Bertie Ahern agrees to a demand from Sinn Féin Leader Gerry Adams for a crisis meeting next week, amid mounting fears that IRA 'hawks' will attempt to scupper any chance of Sinn Féin's return to the talks 2001 - Garda Commissioner Pat Byrne confirms that eighty publicans are to be prosecuted for serving drink to underage customers 2002 - After intense speculation that the Abbey Theatre would move to the southside of the Liffey to a completely new location in the Dublin Docklands, Arts Minister Síle de Valera informs the board of the theatre that the government has decided it is to be redeveloped at its present location 2003 - New figures compiled by the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) show that Ireland has the highest death rate from heart disease in Western Europe. Finland is second and Britain is third 2003 - Sinn Féin chairperson Mitchel McLoughlin claim claims that the deadlock in the Northern peace process will only be broken by St Patrick’s Day if the British Government delivers on the outstanding promises of the Good Friday Agreement 2003 - The European Commission is accused of abusing private citizens’ right by conceding to American pressure on a data protection controversy. Transatlantic airlines such as Aer Lingus will be forced to provide US authorities with the names, addresses, phone numbers, itineraries and credit card details of all passengers flying to the United States. 2007 - Market hits record 10,000. Share values in Dublin surge to a new record with investors pushing the Irish stock market index above 10,000 for the first time.
AOH policy clarifications from president Seamus Boyle
Brothers, Please note the clarification on the much-misunderstood 501-C3 in the letter below from national AOH president Seamus Boyle. - Ed Blank
From the desk of Seamus Boyle:
Brothers and Sisters,
It seems there is a lot of confusion concerning working for politicians who are running for office in this or any other election. I would like to clear up a few things so that there is no confusion as to what we can and cannot do.
No member or officer can ENDORSE any candidate for public office in the name of the Ancient Order of Hibernians or the Ladies Ancient Order of Hibernians. This does not mean that you cannot work for or campaign for a candidate or be on that persons election committee.
Be sure that you do not use any division, county, state or national membership lists to contact people. There are hundreds of lists out there that people have acquired on their own with many AOH names on them. These can be used as they are public lists.
Many people wrongfully believe that the Division, County State and National Boards are 501-C3 organizations. They are not.
Some individual Divisions may be 501-C3, but the majority are not, nor is Philadelphia County Board, Pennsylvania State Board nor the National Board.
If you are working on a campaign make sure you totally separate the AOH and your candidate's campaign. Most division halls, if not all of our halls, are separate from the division and are rented to individuals, organizations or other groups for parties, weddings, etc., and may be used for political functions as long as the division or an officer does not run the affair in the name of the Division.
Please remember to separate AOH and politics in order to protect your Division and yourself.
February 19 1904 - Birth on the Great Blasket Island of writer Muiris Ó Suilleabhain who is best known for his book, "Twenty Years A-Growing" 1939 - De Valera states his intention to preserve Irish neutrality in the event of a second world war 1987 - A general election in the Republic returns a Fianna Fáil government with Haughey as Taoiseach 1992 - US government deports Joseph Doherty, volunteer Oglaigh na hÉireann 1999 - Agriculture Minister Joe Walsh launches an ambitious bid to cushion the impact on Ireland of huge cuts in EU beef subsidies as the deadline for sweeping CAP reforms nears 1999 - Families of missing IRA murder victims plead with Sinn Féin leaders to use their influence with the IRA to find out where the dead are buried 1999 - The hearing of an application by Sinn Féin for an injunction restraining the party's expulsion from the Northern Ireland negotiations resumes at the High Court 2000 - Four peacekeepers killed in an automobile accident in Lebanon - Privates Declan Deere, Brendan Fitzpatrick, Jonathan Murphy and John Lawlor - are laid to rest in their native towns 2001 - According to the latest price survey, taxes make price of Irish cars highest in the EU 2001 - A 4ft limestone rock is unveiled at the entrance to Villierstown in west Waterford which is famous for the heroic exploits and achievements of John Treacy. Weighing a massive eight and a quarter tons, the stone, which came from the nearby quarry at Cappagh, bears the surnames of all 84 families living in the village and the immediate surrounding townlands as of January 1, 2000 2003 - Taoiseach Bertie Ahern says a second United Nations resolution before any military action against Iraq is a political imperative. But Mr Ahern is still refusing to state whether the Government will halt the use of Shannon Airport by the US military if the Bush administration undertakes unilateral action against Saddam Hussein without UN backing.
Join us at the American Ukranian Club March 7 for our AOH/LAOH Division 32 St. Patrick's Day Party with Irish entertainment from Guaranteed Irish band members Jim Lamb and Paddy Folan and the Pittsburgh Police Emerald Society Pipe & Drum Band. $10 gets you delicious food and unlimited draft beer (harp or light) from 7:00 p.m. - Midnight. Mixed drinks available at cash bar. Admission at door: Mansfield & Walnut Street, Carnegie.
February 18 1366 - The Statutes of Kilkenny are passed in an attempt to prevent Norman settlers becoming “more Irish than the Irish themselves” 1478 - George, Duke of Clarence, is executed for high treason in the Tower of London; according to Shakespeare, he meets his death by being drowned in a butt of malmsey wine 1948 - A coalition government takes over under Fine Gael's John Aloysius Costello 1921 - Brian Faulkner, the last Prime Minister of Northern Ireland who serves from 1971 to 1972, is born in Helen's Bay, Co. Down 1922 - Joe Carr, amateur golfer, is born in Dublin 1948 - Actress Sinead Cusack is born 1964 - Death in Blackrock of novelist Maurice Walsh, author of the original story of The Quiet Man 1978: Police in Northern Ireland arrest at least 20 people in connection with the La Mon entertainment complex explosion 1982 - General election in the Republic leads to a Fianna Fáil minority government; Haughey succeeds FitzGerald as Taoiseach 1998 - A page in Irish history is written as Sinn Féin representatives walk into the Four Courts as plaintiffs rather than defendants. One journalist says "The last time Republicans walked in the front door of this building was during the Civil War when the Irregulars occupied the place" 2000 - One of Waterford’s best loved theatrical personalities, Denny Corcoran, is announced as the 1999 winner of the Waterford Crystal WLR FM Arts and Entertainment Hall of Fame Award for his lifetime contribution to theate and music in a career spanning over four decades 2000 - The bodies of four soldiers tragically killed in a car accident in Lebanon are brought to the Casement Aerodrome in Baldonnel 2002 - Hospitals nationwide are forced to cancel admissions, postpone surgery and close outpatient clinics as the highly-contagious winter vomiting virus spreads, striking patients and staff 2003 - Singer Bono is nominated for the 2003 Nobel Peace Prize. It is the second year in a row that he has been nominated 2003 - Twelve men serving sentences in Mountjoy Prison in Dublin make Irish legal history when they become the first graduates of a new course on the very reason they’re behind bars - the law.
It is with much regret that I announce that this year's AOH Cash Bash scheduled for this Saturday, February 21, 2009, at the West View Firemen's Banquet Hall must be canceled.
I thank everyone who purchased a ticket for the event for their support. Please be advised that we will be contacting you as soon as possible about a refund of your ticket purchase.
-- Daniel P.Devinney, AOH Allegheny County Board President
February 17 1896 - In the House of Commons. Horace Plunkett and W.E.H. Lecky, Irish Unionists, support John Redmond's plea for clemency for Irish political prisoners 1945 - Birth of actress, Brenda Fricker 1978 - An IRA incendiary bomb explodes at the La Mon entertainment complex in Comber Co. Down ; it kills 12 people and injures 30 others. The blast is the second worst since the present wave of troubles began in 1969 1980 - The Derrynaflan Chalice and other ancient silver and bronze pre-Christian antiquities are discovered in Co. Tipperary 1998 - Sinn Féin announces it will mount a legal challenge to the British Government's attempt to have them expelled from the multi -party talks 1998 - According to a nation-wide survey, "Morning Ireland" is the nation's favourite radio programme 1999 - Farmers with tractors and trailers move through the centres of 28 cities and towns during a National Day of Action to protest proposed reforms in the EU Common Agricultural Policy 1999 - EU governments gear up for an epic battle with the European Commission over the Brussels verdict to end duty free sales 2000 - Minister O’Donoghue unveils a raft of far reaching proposals for a new legislative initiative at a passing out ceremony at the Garda College in Templemore. He tells the 98 graduating recruits he has received Government approval to draft and bring a new Criminal Justice Bill before the Oireachtas 2001 - Two explosions near Newry force the closure of the rail line between Portadown and Dundalk Photo Credit: Photopress, Belfast 2003 - Supermarket giant Tesco sparks a possible price war with the opening of its first petrol filling station in Killarney, Co Kerry 2003 - The famine replica ship, the Jeanie Johnston, is forced to drop anchor close to the Valentia Island, 20 hours into her 21-day voyage to Tenerife. Strong winds also lead Aer Lingus to cancel all flights to New York.
It's that time of year that our attention turns to Lent and the celebration of Easter. Part of our celebration always includes the AOH/LAOH Division 32 Communion Breakfast. This year’s event is on April 19th at Pittsburgh’s Grand Hall at the Priory with mass beginning at 10:30 AM. Following mass and breakfast, a short program will take place to honor our Service Awardees, our AOH Junior Division awards, and the highlight of the day will be the awarding of the AOH and LAOH Hibernian of the Year awards.
The price for breakfast is $25.00 for adults 17 and older, $16.00 for guests in the 7 to 16 age range, and $10.00 for guests under 7 years of age. All checks should be made payable to AOH Division 32 and mailed, along with payment, to:
Tom Welch, 325 Battery Drive North, McDonald, Pa. 15057
All seats for this event are on a paid “PRESALE ONLY” basis and no walk-ins will be accepted. Your cooperation in this matter is greatly appreciated. Please print and complete the registration form here by April 10th and forward it with payment.
2008 Hibernians of the Year Ed Blank and Kathleen Donnelly
If you'd like to nominate a brother for either Hibernian of the Year or for our Service Awards, please contact Tom by email or by phone at 724.693.9904.
1768 - The Octennial Act limits Irish parliaments' life to eight years 1822 - James Thomson, engineer, is born in Belfast 1886 - The Irish Catholic Hierarchy formally endorses Home Rule 1902 - Birth of singer Delia Murphy in Ardroe, Claremorris, Co. Mayo 1932 - Fianna Fáil wins the general election; de Valera succeeds Cosgrave as President of the Executive Council; Seán Lemass is Minister for Industry and Commerce 1998 - Both the British and Irish governments are united on move to expel Sinn Féin from peace talks 1998 - Michael Flatley announces that he is to make his last live appearance in Ireland this summer 2000 - Sinn Féin leader Gerry Adams accuses the British Government of tearing up the Good Friday Agreement 2001 - RUC Chief Constable Sir Ronnie Flanagan warns that the Real IRA represents a potent and a growing threat 2002 - Three republicans accused of training left-wing guerrillas in Colombia could face trial within a month. A spokeswoman for the attorney general's office in the Colombian capital Bogota confirmed prosecutors have sent their case against Niall Connolly, James Monaghan and Martin McCauley to a federal judge 2003 - Protesters make formal complaints to the gardaí alleging offences under the National Monuments Act after archeological contractors move on to the Carrickmines Castle site to start taking apart the stone structure.
Please keep John Francis, Michael and his entire family in your prayers.
May He Rest in Peace - Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam
May the road rise to meet you. May the wind be always at your back. May
the sun shine warm upon your face. May the rains fall soft upon your
fields and until we meet again, May the Lord hold you in the palm of
His hand.
You can now purchase any of the following CDs featuring beautiful music from the Singing Sisters, Rosemonde and Rosalie Deck, CDP and the Sister of Divine Providence Choirs.
Songs to Cherish, $12 - This special CD contains original vocal pieces composed by Sister Rosalie and Sister Rosemonde, as well as some very enjoyable favorites, including Over the Rainbow and Pie Jesu by Andrew Lloyd Webber.
A Little Bit of Heaven, $15- Irish songs including A Little Bit of Heaven, Danny Boy, Cockles and Mussels, Galway Bay, The Last Rose of Summer and That's an Irish Lullaby (Tura Lura Lura).
Providence Resounds Inspirational Music, $12 - Director, Sister Mary Alvin Hunter accompanied by Sister Genevieve Brandstetter
Christmas Always Songs, $15 - Director, Sister Mary Alvin Hunter accompanied by Sister Genevieve Brandstetter
Please contact Mary Traupman at mtraupman@verizon.net for more information or to purchase one of these CDs.
February 15 1782 - The first Dungannon Convention of the Ulster Volunteers calls for an independent Irish parliament; Grattan continues to campaign for the same objective 1793 - A third convention of Dungannon - a gathering of Volunteers from Ulster is held 1794 - The United Irishmen publish a plan for parliamentary reform, advocating universal male suffrage, equal electoral districts and the secret ballot 1850 - Sophie Bryant, Irish patriot and women's rights advocate, is born 1874 - Birth in Kilkea, Co. Kildare of Antarctic explorer, Sir Ernest Shackleton 1901 - Viscount Brendan Bracken, politician, publisher and British Minister of Information from 1941 to 1945 is born in Templemore, Co. Tipperary 1946 - Clare Short, British Labour politician, is born in Crossmaglen, Co. Armagh 1966 - Novelist John McGahern loses his job as a teacher at Clontarf National School because of ‘indecencies’ in his book "The Dark" 1971 - Ireland switches to decimal currency 1998 - Sinn Féin's Martin McGuinness hints of the danger of an end to the IRA ceasefire if, as expected, his party is expelled from the Northern Peace talks in Dublin 1998 - Ireland has the second lowest number of workplace accidents in Europe, but employers face the highest rate of insurance claims, totalling £400m per year 1998 - According to the Small Firms Association, as many as 1,000 jobs could be lost in Ireland, following the takeover of the HCR group of chemist shops by British superchain, Boots 2000 - The National Bus and Rail union claim a high level of public support for its one day strike which forces 200,000 passengers to find alternative ways of getting to work 2000 - The IRA delivers a shattering blow to the Northern Ireland peace process by pulling out of talks with the arms decommissioning body 2000 - Bishop Cormac Murphy O’Connor succeeds the late Cardinal Basil Hume to become Archbishop of Westminster and the the new leader of 4·1 million Catholics in England and Wales 2001 - In Belfast, more than 100 members of health service union Unison stage the first in a series of "shadow of the gun" protest rallies. The public demonstration follows threats from loyalist terror groups to staff at the Mater Hospital on the Crumlin Road 2001 - Lena Hunt, a 78-year old pensioner from Limavady, Co. Derry, turns down a £250,000 offer for part of her back garden, insisting that it means more to her than money. Without the key bit of land, developers of a multi-million pound supermarket project are unable to proceed 2001 - One week after protesters call off their blockade of the ill-fated Mullaghmore interpretative centre and car park in the Burren, machinery moves in to demolish the buildings and associated facilities 2002 - Popstars group 6 grab No 1 spot in the Irish charts with their debut single "There's A Whole Lot of Loving Going On."
Down by the sally gardens my love and I did meet; She passed the sally gardens with little snow-white feet. She bid me take love easy, as the leaves grow on the tree; But I being young and foolish with her did not agree.
In a field by the river my love and I did stand, And on my leaning shoulder she laid her snow-white hand. She bid me take life easy, as the grass grows on the weirs; But I was young and foolish, and now am full of tears.
February 14 1629 - Valentine Greatrakes - or Greatorex - a physician who is known as the 'touch doctor', is born in Affane, Co. Waterford 1700 - A subsidy is authorized to Louis Crommellin for establishing a linen industry 1792 - Pianist and composer John Field gives his first public performance at the Rotunda in Dublin 1853 - The Queen Victoria sinks in a storm off Howth, with the loss of 55 lives 1856 - Frank Harris, writer and journalist, is born in Galway 1878 - Daniel Corkery, writer, critic and Irish cultural enthusiast, is born in Cork 1895 - Birth in Tipperary of Revolutionary, Sean Treacy 1951 - Alan Shatter, Fine Gael politician, is born in Dublin 1981 - The Stardust Ballroom in Artane, Dublin goes up in flames; 48 young people are killed and more than 100 are injured 1999 - The Provisional IRA calls a halt to 'rough justice' in a move which is being seen as a concession to the on-going peace process in Northern Ireland 2000 - Four Irish soldiers are killed in a tragic road accident in South Lebanon 2000 - Castlecove, Co. Kerry wins two prizes in the Nations in Bloom competition, held in Hamamatsu, Japan, overcoming challenges from cities such as Lisbon and Toronto 2000 - A joint Irish/British strategy for dealing with the difficulties left by the suspension of the Northern Ireland administration is finalised by Taoiseach, Bertie Ahern and Prime Minister, Tony Blair 2000 - Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams says politics in Northern Ireland are now in ‘‘the worst crisis of a crisis ridden process’’ 2001 - The Ulster Defence Association, the largest of the Protestant paramilitary groups, breaks its silence to deny any involvement in the wave of sectarian pipe bomb attacks which have spread terror across the north 2001 - At Áras an Uachtaráin, president Mary McAleese presents the prestigious Gaisce gold medal awards to 55 young high achievers from 17 different countries 2002 - Pregnant women are advised by the Departments of Agriculture, Food and Rural Development and of Health and Children to avoid contact with sheep at lambing time. The advice is issued in the context of the potential risks of contracting an infection that can occur in some ewes 2002 - The Bishop of Killaloe says he would welcome the ordination of women priests. Dr Willie Walsh made his comments amid a growing crisis within his own diocese. Just one priest is set to be ordained within the next seven years. In the same period, over a dozen priests are set to retire 2003 - Hundreds of train passengers have their travel plans disrupted by a lightning industrial action by the National Bus and Rail Workers Union in Cork. All services out of the city’s Kent Station from lunchtime until 5pm are affected.
February 13 1689 - William and Mary - daughter of James II - are proclaimed king and queen jointly 1820 - Leonard McNally, lawyer and English informer, dies 1871 - Joseph Devlin, Belfast Nationalist, is born 1864 - Stephen Lucius Gwynn, writer and nationalist, is born in Dublin 1898 - Frank Aiken, revolutionary and politician from Co. Armagh, is born 1938 - Larry Cunningham, country singer, is born in Granard, Co. Offaly 1956 - Birth in Dublin of Liam Brady, former soccer international 1998 - It is announced that Irish Embassy staff in Riyadh and Tel Aviv, the Saudi and Israeli capitals, are being kitted out with special suits to protect them against nuclear, biological or chemical weapons 1998 - Ireland's electricity industry, one of the last bastions of the closed market, takes a historic step towards open competition when Enterprise Minister Mary O'Rourke inspects the site of a Finnish-owned peat-fuelled generating station in Offaly 2001 - Kosovar refugees living in Tralee and Waterford celebrate their right to become Irish citizens, almost two years after they first arrived in Ireland. A total of 140 Kosovar refugees, displaced as a result of an ethnic war in their homeland, are to be allowed live in Ireland permanently on humanitarian grounds 2002 - It is announced that John Rocha is to become the first Irish designer to receive a CBE award for his long-standing contribution to the fashion industry 2003 - Nearly10,000 people are forced to find an alternative way of getting to work in Dublin when Dart services are disrupted by a major overhead line fault.
February 12 1722 - Thomas Burgh, MP for Naas, and Richard Stewart, MP for Strabane, receive the first £2,000 of £8,000 from the Irish parliament for operating their colliery at Ballycastle, Co. Antrim 1782 - The right of habeas corpus is introduced in Ireland 1820 - The ships East Indian and Fanny, with about 350 Irish emigrants aboard, leave Cork for Cape Colony, carrying some of the "1820 settlers" 1848 - John Mitchel publishes first United Irishmen 1923 - Birth in Castledawson, Co. Derry/Londonderryof James Chichester-Clark, Northern Ireland Prime Minister from 1969 to 1971 1930 - The first Free State Censorship Board is appointed 1945 - Jimmy Keaveney, Dublin Gaelic footballer, is born in Dublin 1949 - Fergus Slattery, rugby player, is born in Dún Laoghaire, Co. Dublin 1971 - Delia Murphy, ballad singer, dies 1976 - Frank Stagg, Irish political prisoner, dies on hunger strike in English prison 1989 - Patrick Finucane is murdered by Unionist assassins; Finucane, who acted as solicitor for republican hunger striker Bobby Sands was shot dead at his north Belfast home in front of his wife and children 1998 - The IRA insists that their ceasefire is still in place — despite "speculation surrounding recent killings in Belfast" 1998 - It is confirmed that Ireland has one of Europe's top economies and our ability to compete globally outstrips Germany and France 1999 - President Mary McAleese says Pope John Paul has told her, in their private meeting at the Vatican, he is considering a return visit to Ireland 1999 - Literary legend John B. Keane discloses that he is back writing again after a four-year break due to illness 1999 - A new political storm rages after Sinn Féin president Gerry Adams predicts that the North would be moving toward a united Ireland in 15 years time 2002 - Health Minister Micheál Martin vows to press ahead with further restrictions on smoking in pubs, despite opposition from publicans 2002 - Two Dublin film companies are nominated for Oscars in the Best Animated Short Film category and Donegal singer/songwriter Enya is nominated for best song with May It Be, from the Lord of the Rings soundtrack 2003 - Irish musicians are hoping their plea to stop US military aircraft refuelling at Shannon will strike the right chord with the Government. More than 50 top acts have signed an open letter which will be sent to the Taoiseach asking him to end the refuelling stopover at the airport 2003 - Mystery surrounds the identity of an artist as 24 of his paintings are launched at the Irish Museum of Modern Art (IMMA). Known only as “John the Painter”, he has been in psychiatric care in Cork city for more than 30 years 2003 - Talks between the Taoiseach, the British Prime Minister and Northern politicians conclude in Hillsborough Castle, Co Down.
February 11 1774 - Death of Jacob Poolem antiquary, in Growtown, Co. Wexford 1858 - The Miracle of Lourdes takes place when St Bernadette - Bernadette Soubirous - has her first vision of the Virgin Mary 1926 - Rioting greets the Abbey Theatre performance of Sean O'Casey's The Plough and the Stars because of what is viewed as anti-Irish sentiment. Yeats tells the audience 'You have disgraced yourselves again' 1992 - After Haughey's resignation as Taoiseach, he is succeeded by Albert Reynolds on this date 1998 - The mother of Stephen Restorick, the last British soldier killed in Northern Ireland, says she is "saddened" by the decision of a member of John Hume's party to boycott a memorial service in the Co. Armagh village where her son died 2000 - A new de Chastelain report on the IRA arms decommissioning impasse identifies a real prospect of agreement 2003 - Dissident republicans opposed to the peace process in Northern Ireland warn of new bomb attacks.
On Saturday, Feb. 14, 2009, St. Therese Parish in nearby Munhall, PA, will host the first annual Cupid’s Cash Giveaway to support Fr. Dan’s Appalachia Project.
Many of you who attended the Mardi Gras or Night at the races at Epiphany Parish, near Mellon Arena, will be familiar with the format of the event (It’s a blast!), as well as the charitable works it supports, since it’s the same Fr. Dan Sweeny, who organized the events at Epiphany.
This July, Fr. Dan’s Appalachia Project will build 18 homes for poverty stricken families in the Appalachia region of Kentucky.
Only180 tickets will be sold for this event.
Each $100 ticket provides the following for a couple:
Doors open with hors d’oeuvres at 5 p.m.
Buffet dinner with chicken marsala, dressed salmon, roast beef, roasted potatoes, vegetables, penna pasta, salad and dessert.
Open bar with beer, wine and liquor.
Ticket numbers pulled at regular intervals.
$100 cash prize for every 10th ticket pulled.
Last number pulled wins $10,000.
Dancing 9 p.m. till midnight.
Additional highlights:
Five horse races. 50/50 raffle. Instant bingo.
Tables of 10 can be reserved.
Please see me, or call the rectory directly at (412) 462-8161 to reserve your ticket.
February 1o 1844 - Daniel O'Connell is convicted of "conspiracy," fined and sentenced to 12 months in prison 1852 - William O'Brien, writer and nationalist, is born in Mallow, Co. Cork 1889 - Richard Piggott is exposed as forger of 'Times' Phoenix Park letters 1907 - Death of Dublin- born journalist, Sir William Howard Russell 1926 - Danny Blanchflower, footballer, is born in Belfast 1965 - The Lockwood Committee Report on higher education in Northern Ireland is published 1998 - It is feared that a new wave of tit-for-tat sectarian terror will hit the North after the murder of Robert Dougan, a leading loyalist, outside a textile company near Belfast 1998 - Suspected SLVF leader, Mark "Swinger" Fulton, survives a murder attempt in Portadown, Co. Armagh 1998 - Northern Secretary Mo Mowlam and Ulster Unionist security spokesman Ken Maginnis agree to bury the hatchet in their bitter personal row, which threats to overshadow the Stormont talks process 1998 - Republican and security sources in the North clash amid allegations that IRA members behind the murder of top Belfast drugs dealer Brendan Campbell and fears it could lead to Sinn Fein's expulsion from the Stormont talks 1999 - Bertie Ahern's minority Coalition suffers another blow to its stability when Fianna Fáil backbencher, Beverly Cooper-Flynn, chooses to back her father, Padraig Flynn, rather than the Government in a crucial Dáil vote 1999 - A potentional major tragedy is averted when over 100 mine-workers ar lifted to safety after a fire 1,150 feet below the ground at Tara Mines, Navan 2000 - David Trimble meets with Taoiseach Bertie Ahern in Dublin Photo Credit: Maxwells/Dublin 2002 - Children from Belfast's troubled Holy Cross school arrive in Connemara for what promises to be a welcome break. The three-day holiday is a gift from the proprietor of Peacockes Hotel at Maam Cross in Galway 2003 - A dissident republican bomb attack on Enniskillen prompts calls for the British government to put on hold any plans to scale down army installations in the North.
February 9 1731 - Birth of Sir Lucius O'Brien, opposition politician; he will eventually be described as 'a man who disagrees with the rest of mankind by thinking well of himself' 1903 - Charles Gavan Duffy, the first editor and proprietor of The Nation newspaper, dies in Nice 1932 - The Army Comrades Association is formed; later to be called the National Guard and nicknamed the 'Blueshirts' 1923 - Birth in Dublin of playwright Brendan Behan 1926 - Birth of Irish statesman, Dr. Garrett FitzGerald. Former Prime Minister. He serves as the Prime Minister of Ireland from June 1981 to March 1982 and again from December 1982 to March 1987. During his time in office he attends more than 20 European Council meetings and at different times serves as President of the Council of Ministers and the European Council of Heads of Government. He is currently a member of the Council of State and an active Chancellor of the National University of Ireland, which comprises four of the State's seven universities. Dr. Fitzgerald is also a lecturer, consultant, company director and writer. He is the author of six books, the most recent being "Reflections on the Irish State" 1983 - A nationwide hunt begins following the kidnapping of prize stallion and 1981 Derby winner Shergar from the Aga Khan's stables in Co. Kildare 1996 - IRA ends ceasefire with London Docklands bombing, killing two and injuring 100 1998 - Claremorris show jumper, Carl Hanley receives the Irish Field National Award at the Annual Awards Ball in Dublin 1998 - Ulster Unionist rebels planning to overthrow leader David Trimble confirm there is "widespread concern" at the political direction of the party following revelations of a possible leadership challenge next month 1998 - Nationalist politicians in the North respond angrily to a consultative paper described as the most far-reaching British government review of police accountability for 30 years 2000 - Northern Ireland Secretary Peter Mandelson issues a direct appeal to the IRA to start disarming in order to save the peace process from collapse 2001 - Limerick man Michael Noonan is elected leader of Fine Gael. 2007 - Death of author Ben Kiely, one of Ireland’s best acclaimed writers and journalists at the age of 87. Born between Drumskinny in Co Fermanagh and Dromore, Co Tyrone and a former pupil of Mount St Columba Christian Brothers School in Omagh, his career spans six decades and produces many short stories and novels, as well as his autobiography Drink to the Bird: An Omagh Boyhood.
"So, have you figured what to buy the Missus for Christmas?" asked Brady. "I, sure have, she decided it for me," answered Paddy. "She said she wanted something with diamonds in it, so I've bought her a pack of cards."
This week in Irish History the following occurred:
February 8 1872 - Captain John Philip Nolan, a supporter of home rule and tenant rights, defeats Conservative William Le Poer Trench in a Co. Galway by-election 1999 - Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams refuses to rule out the possibility his party will take legal action to secure the early release of Garda Det. Jerry McCabe's killers when the anger surrounding the case dies down 2000 - Boyzone's Keith Duffy is officially declared Ireland's sexiest man by a prestigious panel of judges. Keith won out over an impressive list of handsome hunks, including Garda Commissioner Pat Byrne, Fine Gael deputy Ivan Yates, actor Noel Pearson and Esat multi millionaire Denis O’Brien. Dancer supreme Michael Flatley, comedian Brendan Carroll and the inimitable Jackie Healy Rae TD also feature on the sexiest list 2000 - US President Bill Clinton makes it clear to the Irish and British Governments he is ready to become actively involved in trying to save the Northern Ireland government if needed 2000 - The Northern Ireland peace process is plunged into further crisis following the disclosure that the UVF is planning a country wide purge against the renegade LVF 2000 - Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams issues a stark warning that he is ready to walk away from the Northern Ireland peace process if the Government re-imposes direct rule from Westminster 2001 - A man is injured by an explosive device amid heightening fears of fatalities in an escalating campaign of loyalist pipe bomb attacks on Catholic families in Northern Ireland 2002 - Dissident republicans are believed to be behind a bomb attack at an army training centre in Co Derry which left a civilian security guard critically injured 2003 - Deposed loyalist terror boss Johnny ‘Mad Dog’ Adair suffers a final humiliation when a new paramilitary regime is officially installed in his west Belfast stronghold.
February 7 1873 - Death in Dublin of Joseph Sheridan LeFanu. Journalist, novelist, and short story writer, he is often called the father of the modern ghost story. Although Le Fanu was one of the most popular writers of the Victorian era, he is not so widely read anymore. His best-known works include Uncle Silas (1864), a suspense story, and The House by the Churchyard (1863), a murder mystery. His vampire story 'Carmilla,' which influenced Bram Stoker's Dracula, has been filmed several times 1875 - Sir Alfred Chester Beatty, mining engineer, philanthropist, art collector and the first honorary citizen of Ireland, is born in New York 1877 - John O'Mahony, founder of the Fenian Brotherhood in US, dies in New York 1940 - Birth of Harold McCusker, unionist politician, in Lurgan, Co. Armagh 1959 - Birth of Mick McCarthy, Barnsley, Manchester City, Celtic, Olympic Lyonnais, Millwall and Republic of Ireland footballer; Millwall and Republic of Ireland manager 1991 - The IRA fires at least three mortar bombs at 10 Downing Street; they fail to detonate 1998 - A burst of Dear Old Skibbereen shatters the stillness as GAA star Michael McCarthy is laid to rest in his West Cork hometown 1999 - The British Government urges David Trimble and Gerry Adams to agree to some sort of compromise in a bid to end the paramilitary disarmament deadlock 1999 - Two Irish soldiers are hospitalized after being hit by shrapnel from a heavy 120 mm mortar explosion in crossfire between the Southern Lebanese Army and Hizbollah guerrillas 2001 - More than 3,500 passengers are affected by the cabin crew pay strike at Shannon Airport 2002 - The Cranberries announce that proceeds from their new single, Time is Ticking Out, will be donated to the Chernobyl Children's Project 2002 - One elderly woman, in line at St Patrick's Church in Ringsend, Dublin for a €1,000 cheque for flood damage, had all her possessions with her - in just one bag. She is just one of hundreds of homeowners who benefit after the Archdiocese of Dublin donates hundreds of €1,000 cheques to victims of the recent flooding in the city 2003 - Northern Secretary Paul Murphy says he is hopeful the Executive in the North will be up and running again by March 17 once a series of intense roundtable talks are completed.
February 6 1685 - Coronation of King James II 1877 - John O'Mahoney, Irish patriot, dies in New York City 1900 - John Redmond is elected leader of the Irish Party 1918 - The silent film version of Charles Kickham's popular novel Knocknagow, about life in a Tipperary village, is shown for the first time 1933 - 2RN is superseded by Radio Athlone 1971 - In Belfast, Robert Curtis becomes the first British soldier to be killed by the Provisional IRA 1998 - The European Commission launches an investigation into the FAI's refusal to allow Wimbledon football club to move to Dublin which could trigger a revolution in Irish and European soccer 1998 - Dr Kieran McCarthy, a marine specialist in the Zoology Department at UCG expresses fears that a uniquely Irish species of fish - pollan - which is found in only four fresh water lakes is being threatened by the vigorous spread of zebra mussels 2000 - A continuity IRA bomb explodes at a County Fermanagh hotel less than 24 hours before the Ulster Unionist Party’s Ken McGuinness is due to visit 2001 - Over 8,000 homes in the south of the country are left without power after a severe electrical storm and high winds wreak havoc 2001 - For the first time in three decades, Ireland’s first Eurovision winner Dana is back in the famous contest’s spotlight as she takes to the stage to introduce the entertainers at the Dublin launch of Eurosong 2001 2002 - The jinx on famine replica ship, the Jeanie Johnston, continues as the High Court grants an order against the owners and all persons claiming an interest in the ship 2002 - Pharmacists vow to fight Health Minister Micheál Martin through the courts to stop plans for industry deregulation 2003 - The Northern Secretary, Paul Murphy, returns Johnny Adair to prison alleging he had been involved in directing terrorism, drug dealing, extortion, money laundering and procuring and distributing guns.
February 5 1811 - Maurice Lenihan, journalist and historian, is born in Waterford 1820 - Death of William Drennan; physician, poet, educator and political radical, he was one of the chief architects of the Society of United Irishmen. He is also known as the first to refer in print to Ireland as "the Emerald Isle". Burial takes place in Clifton Street burial-ground in Belfast and, according to his will and with deliberate symbolism, his coffin is borne to the grave by three Catholics and three Protestants 1880 -The Irish Rugby Football Union is founded in Dublin 1960 - The Gael-Linn film Mise Éire - I am Ireland - with music by Seán Ó Reada, has its first public showing 1961 - The Sunday Telegraph begins publication 1967 - The Musicians' Union bans the Rolling Stones's Let's Spend The Night Together from Eamonn Andrews' television show 1998 - It is announced that the Ulster Democratic Party, which was suspended from the Northern talks in the wake of Ulster Freedom Fighters-orchestrated sectarian killings, will not be granted a reprieve in time for the upcoming Dublin Castle negotiations 1999 - The French arrive in force in Dublin for tomorrow's Five Nations clash at Lansdowne Road 2001 - Extra British troops are deployed in an attempt to prevent further loyalist pipe bomb attacks on Catholic homes in north Belfast 2003 - A 120-strong 12th Infantry Battalion from Sarsfield Barracks is sent to Shannon to beef up security at the airport. The troops will remain until the threat of further attacks on military planes abates 2003 - The trial of three Irishmen charged with training members of the FARC guerilla movement resumes in Bogota, Columbia. 2006 - Former Bishop of Galway Eamonn Casey returns to Ireland after 14 years in exile. The cleric fled the country after he admitted to fathering his son, Peter.
This day in Irish History the following occurred: February 4 1775 - Birth of Robert Emmett, Irish patriot 1816 - Robert Hobart, 4th Earl of Buckinghamshire and former MP for Portarlington and Armagh Borough, dies from a fall from his horse in St James's Park, London 1830 - O'Connell enters parliament, having taken the new oath of allegiance 1868 - Birth of Irish patriot and revolutionary, Countess Constance Markievicz, née Gore-Booth 1921 - Sir James Craig succeeds Lord Edward Carson as Ulster Unionist leader 1962 - The first colour supplement is published by The Sunday Times 1992 - An off-duty RUC officer in Belfast kills three people in a Sinn Féin office before commiting suicide 1992 - Mary Robinson becomes the first Irish President to visit Belfast 2000 - Iseult Law, great-granddaughter of poet Francis Stuart, and hundreds of mourners pay a final tribute to the legendary writer at his funeral in Fanore, Co. Clare 2000 - Actors from every genre of stage and screen show come together in the chapel at Terenure College in Dublin for the funeral service of Ballykissangel star Tony Doyle. Sources: Irish Culture and Customs The Celtic League Irish Abroad The Wild Geese
This day in Irish History the following occurred: February 3 1537 -Thomas FitzGerald, Lord of Offaly and five of his uncles are executed in London. This is the end of the FitzGeralds as a major power 1744 - Lord Netterville, indicted in August 1743 for the murder of Michael Walsh, is tried by his peers in the parliament house and honourably acquitted 1801 - Prime Minister William Pitt resigns over royal veto on Catholic emancipation 1881 - Irish Land League organizer Michael Davitt is arrested again in Dublin 1896 - Lady Jane Wilde (Spiranza), poet, nationalist and the mother of Oscar, dies in London 1911 - Death of Dublin-born Robert Noonan, better known as Robert Tressell, author of The Ragged Trousered Philanthropists 1919 - Harry Boland and Michael Collins engineer Eamon de Valera's escape from Lincoln Jail in England. He is dressed as a woman 1929 - Val Doonican, entertainer, is born in Waterford 1939 - Amanda M'Kittrick Ros, novelist and poet, dies 1998 - Taoiseach, Bertie Ahern, warns that substantive progress in the Northern peace talks would not be made by Easter unless the parties start discussing a single document containing the outline proposals for an agreement 1998 - Northern Ireland politician, Billy Hutchinson, facing a death threat from the Loyalist Volunteer Force brands the outlawed terror group as "a bunch of thugs, drug dealers and police informers" 2001 - It is announced that Irish celebrities in showbusiness, sport and the world of writing are among the top earners in England and Ireland. The Irish stars on the rich list include U2, The Corrs, Enya, Ronan Keating, Pierce Brosnan, Eddie Irvine, Roy Keane, Marian Keyes and Maeve Binchy 2001 - The Department of the Marine appeals for help in identifying a long legged deep sea creature, which was netted off the Kerry coast. A seasoned specialist on rare fish says he is baffled by the strange grasshopper like specimen found in nets 220 miles from the shore 2002 - British abortion providers are taking legal advice after Golden Pages inform them they are pulling ads for their services from its 2003 directory 2002 - Gales of up to 65 miles per hour ground flights at Dublin Airport and cause a Delta flight carrying 167 passengers and 14 crew to overshoot the main runway. No passengers are injured. Sources: Irish Culture and Customs, The Celtic League, Irish Abroad, The Wild Geese
