Here's Fr. Tom O'Donnell's Message for May

The Month Of Mary

For centuries the month of May has been traditionally dedicated to Mary, the Mother of Christ and Our Blessed Mother.

Although we celebrate the Mysteries of the Rosary with special significance in October, the month of May would also be a time of grace to call to mind these Mysteries of the Blessed Virgin Mary and to enter into them through our reliance on the mediation of Mary and her Divine Son, Jesus Christ.

A brief look at the Joyful Mystery of the Visitation can help us see how Mary can be an integral part of our spiritual life. Once Christ became flesh in the womb of the Blessed Virgin, Mary began to move. She set out in haste to visit her cousin, Elizabeth, who at an advanced age was pregnant with John the Baptist.

Why did Mary go to Elizabeth? Because Elizabeth needed her. Why does Mary come to us? Because we need her. The Blessed Mother comes to us at the Visitation so that the closeness of the life that she shares with Her Son will be part of our life also.

Pope John Paul II wrote: “The Father’s eternal love comes to each of us through this Mother. Through Mary’s maternal presence the Church acquires certainty that she is truly living the mystery of the Redemption in all its life giving fullness.

Mary visits us to bring us Christ’s nearness. By his birth, death and resurrection, we have been reborn. The Blessed Virgin comes to generate in us the union that she experiences with the Son in her womb. Our Holy Father Pope Benedict XVI tells us that Mary “is not merely the Church’s promised certitude of salvation but its bodily certitude also.”

In Mary’s face, in her voice, in her gaze we find what we have been looking for – peace, comfort and serenity amidst all the frustrating and trying moments of our life. If you are able, pray the Rosary with me nightly at 7:00 P.M. on the radio at 620 on the a.m. dial.

With every blessing and best wish,
Father Tom O’Donnell
AOH Allegheny County and Pennsylvania State Chaplain

Here's Diane Byrnes' Echoes of Erin Schedule

ECHOES OF ERIN
WEDO 810 a.m.
Sundays from 1-2 p.m.
Irish / Celtic Radio Programming
www.pittsburghirish.org/echoesoferin
Diane V. Byrnes DATELINE IRISH
78 GRANT AVE. April 26, 2009
PITTSBURGH, PA. 15223 PROGRAM # 1101
412.781.6368

Dateline Irish sponsored by BrandMill, LLC - marketing experts who will transform your business through fact-based processes and innovative marketing systems designed to achieve dramatic, measurable and profitable results.

Sunday, April 26
• Echoes of Erin 1:00PM on WEDO 810AM – The Ireland Report with Mairtin O’Muilleoir, Managing Director of the Belfast Media Group and CEO and Publisher of The Irish Echo in NY.
• The Gaelic Arts Society of Pittsburgh presents “The Evolution of Irish Gardens”, a slide show and lecture by Elsie Keely at Synod Hall, North Craig Street in Oakland, 2:30 PM. Social to follow. Information 412.761.1844.
• WQED TV is airing “Highland Heartbeat” with Fiona Kennedy at 5:30PM. Featured artists: Jim Malcolm from Perth former lead signer of Old Blind Dogs, Julian Isbester from Shetland-singer & actress, and Darren MacLean from Isle of Skye, plus more.
• The Ireland Institute of Pittsburgh is seeking Host Families for young adults, 18-26, from Ireland and Northern Ireland. Call 412.394.3900, Website: www.iiofpitt.org.

Now through Saturday, May 17
• Pittsburgh Public Theatre presents “A Moon for the Misbegotten” by Eugene O’Neill, staring Tom Atkins. Directed by Pamela Berlin, Pittsburgh Public Theatre at the O’Reilly Theatre. Tickets 412.316.1600; mention Erin and receive $5.00 OFF ticket, or visit www.ppt.org.

Monday, April 27
• Paddy’s Pour House, 215 East Main Street, Carnegie features an Acoustic Jam Session at 7:00PM.



Tuesday, April 28
• Mullaney’s Harp & Fiddle, 2329 Penn Ave., in The Strip, 412-642-6622: hosting Ceiling Dancing from 7:00pm.
• Paddy’s Pour House, 215 East Main Street, Carnegie, 412-279-0770, it’s Irish Night with Guinness and Harp Special from 8:00 PM.

Wednesday, April 29
• Paddy’s Pour House, 215 East Main Street, Carnegie features Potters Reel at 7:00PM.
• Mullaney’s Harp & Fiddle, 2329 Penn Ave., in The Strip, 412-642-6622 features A Live Acoustic at 8:00 PM.

Thursday, April 30
• Mullaney’s Harp & Fiddle, 2329 Penn Ave., in The Strip, 412-642-6622 features Ballad Singer, Sean McClorey at 8:30 PM.

Friday, May 1
• Matt & Shannon Heaton performing at Club Café 56-58 S. 12th Street, Southside at 7:00 PM. Launch of new CD ‘Lover’s Well’. Callan is opening act.
• Paddy’s Pour House, 215 East Main Street, Carnegie features Jim Lamb on vocals & guitar at 9:00PM.
• Mullaney’s Harp & Fiddle, 2329 Penn Ave., in The Strip, 412-642-6622 features entertainment at 9:00PM.

Saturday, May 2
• Paddy’s Pour House, 215 East Main Street, Carnegie features Mark Guiser at 9:00PM.
• Mullaney’s Harp & Fiddle, 2329 Penn Ave., in The Strip, 412-642-6622 features Whiskey Limerick at 9:00 PM.

Sunday, May 3
• Echoes of Erin 1:00PM on WEDO 810AM – The Ireland Report with Patricia Sharkey, Editor of the Donegal News Letter, www.dun-na-ngall.com. Guest in WEDO Studio is Jack Webber with The Knights of Equity, Court 9.

Friday, May 8
• Mullaney’s Harp & Fiddle, 2329 Penn Ave., in The Strip, 412-642-6622 features entertainment at 9:00 PM.

Saturday, May 9
• A Night of Irish Music with Sean McClorey at the Blawnox Sportsmen Club, 314 Freeport Road, Blawnox, 2nd Floor. Sponsored by Clan Na Gael, James Connolly Camp, 7:00PM-11:00PM. Donation $10.00 refreshments provided.
• Mullaney’s Harp & Fiddle, 2329 Penn Ave., in The Strip, 412-642-6622 features Weathered Road, 9:00PM.

Sunday, May 10
• Pittsburgh Irish & Classical Theatre begins a new season with “Rock ‘n’ Roll” through May 30 Variety of packages available. ProArts 412-394-3353, Groups – Eric Nelson, 412-561-6000 x 206. www.picttheatre.org.

Friday, May 15
• Mullaney’s Harp & Fiddle, 2329 Penn Ave., in The Strip, 412-642-6622 features entertainment at 9:00 PM.

Saturday, May 16
• AOH Division 17, Monroeville, 8:00PM Whiskey Limerick at Club Rooms, Broadway Blvd / Route 130 in Monroeville, Kevin O’Donnell KO719@comcast.net or 412-613-3500.
• The All Ireland Athletic Association is sponsoring their Annual Spring Dance with Matt Cunningham’s Irish Ceili Band direct from Galway, Ireland at American Legion Hall in East Pittsburgh. Information Ray Connolly 412.373.7252 OR 412.367.0696. Donation $12 in Advance, $15 at Door, Children 16 and under $6.00; includes baked goods, coffee & tea; Cash Bar. Email jguaybest@comcast.net.
• Paddy’s Pour House, 215 East Main Street, Carnegie features Ballad Singer, Mike Gallagher at 9:00PM.
• Mullaney’s Harp & Fiddle, 2329 Penn Ave., in The Strip, 412-642-6622 features entertainment at 9:00 PM.

Sunday, May 17
• Echoes of Erin 1:00PM on WEDO 810AM – The Ireland Report with Davy Kettyles from Enniskillen, Co. Fermanagh. Guest in WEDO Studio is Paul Evans with AOH St. Patrick Division 4 in North Hills.

May 21 – 30
• ‘The Heart of Ireland Tour’ with Robbie O’Connell, visiting the ‘Northern Sights’ 1-800-299-CELT or http://www.celtica.com/Ireland/tour_desc.html. Visiting Sligo, Donegal, Ulster Folk Museum, Bushmills, Giant’s Causeway, Newry, and Newgrange in Counties. Meath and Dublin.

Friday, May 22
• Mullaney’s Harp & Fiddle, 2329 Penn Ave., in The Strip, 412-642-6622 features The Wild Colonial Bhoys from North Carolina, 9:00PM.

Saturday, May 23
• Mullaney’s Harp & Fiddle, 2329 Penn Ave., in The Strip, 412-642-6622 features entertainment at 9:00 PM.

Friday & Saturday, May 29 & 30
• Mullaney’s Harp & Fiddle, 2329 Penn Ave., in The Strip, 412-642-6622 features Seamus Kennedy at 9:00PM.

June 6
• AOH Division 17, Monroeville, 8:00PM The Rivermen at Club Rooms, Broadway Blvd / Route 130 in Monroeville. Kevin O’Donnell at KO719@comcast.net or 412 613-3500




June 13
• AOH St. Patrick’s Division 4 in North Hills will host their Irish Day of Entertainment at Schitizen Park (Croatian Center) off Babcock Blvd. in Millvale; from Noon featuring The Irish Lads from Scranton, PA. Information: Steve Kurpiewski (412) 734-9648.

Friday, June 19
• Singer, songwriter, musician Luka Bloom will be performing in concert at the South Park Amphitheater, corner of Brownsville & McCorkle Roads, 7:30PM, 412.835.4810. Luka Bloom out of Dublin is brother to Christy Moore.

July 29 through August 1
• The AOH Pennsylvania State Convention will take place at the Radisson Hotel in Greentree. Information: Denny Donnelly, 412-276-9312, Email: Denny Donnelly, ddon633@comcast.net and Patti Flaus, Email: pyecat54@comcast.net.

August 14, 2009 – PBS, WQED TV presents Daniel O’Donnell in Concert. Details TBA.

September 3 – 6
• The National Festival of Wales hosted by Pittsburgh’s St. David’s Society, at Hilton Hotel. There will be Concerts, Seminars, a Welsh Songfest plus more. Details TBA.

Saturday, September 19
• AOH Sean MacBride Division 32, 20th Anniversary Celebration at Chartiers Country Club.

Saturday, October 3
• Thistle & Pine 2nd Annual Celtic Festival, 10:00AM to 5:00PM, 7570 Route 119 Highway N., Marion Center PA. Info 724-397-2442. Pipers, Highland Dancers, Free Admittance.

Friday & Saturday, November 6 & 7
• The Balmoral Classic at Shady Side Academy, Fox Chapel. Featuring the US Junior Solo Bagpiping Championship Competition & Concert at Hillman Center for Performing Arts. Information: George Balderose, 412.323.2707 or www.balmoralclassic.org OR www.bagpiping.org

Saturday & Sunday, November 21 & 22
• Senator John Heinz History Center presents ‘The 2009 Heritage Holidays Weekend’ featuring Ethnic Foods, Live Performances, Holiday Decorations, Easy Crafts, Heritage Information. History Center at 1212 Smallman St. in The Strip. Other details TBA.

February 6-13, 2010
• Irish Festival Cruise aboard Costa Atlantica sailing the Western Caribbean with The Black Family, The Elders, Johnny McEvoy, Karen Casey, David Munnelly Band, Captain Mackie Goatskin & String Band, Tommy Sands, Ennis, and Matt Cunningham’s Irish Ceili Band. 1-800-441-HARP.


The Irish Pubs & Restaurants who support EoE

The Claddagh Irish Pub & Restaurant, South Side Works, 412-381-4800
Mullaney’s Harp & Fiddle, 2329 Penn Ave., in The Strip, 412.642.6622
Paddy’s Pour House, 215 East Main Street, Carnegie, 412.279.0770.





Irish Groups & Organizations

Ancient Order of Hibernians, Allegheny County Board, AOH Division 1, 4, & 17 - http://www.pittsburghirish.org/AOH/index.htm
Ancient Order of Hibernians, Division 32 - http://aoh32.org/blog.html
Daughters of Erin and Knights of Equity - http://www.knightsofequity.com/daughters.html
Ireland Institute of Pittsburgh - www.iiofpitt.org.
Irish American Unity Conference - www.pittsburghirish.org/IAUC/index.htm
Irish Centre of Pittsburgh – http://www.pittsburghirish.org/irishcentre
Pittsburgh Ceili Club - www.pittsburghceiliclub.org/
Pittsburgh Irish Centre - http://www.pittsburghirish.org/irishcentre/index.htm


LOCAL IRISH ENTERTAINERS WEBSITES
Check Performance Schedules, Etc.
NEW Ar éigean Gael - www.myspace.com/barelyirish
Aran from Johnstown PA - http://www.people.iup.edu/rahkonen/Bands/Aran.htm
George Balderose - http://www.pittsburghpiper.com/
Carnival of Souls - http://www.carnivalofsouls.com
Ceann - http://www.ceannmusic.com/
Cogan Brothers - http://www.coganbros.com
Cue Ball Music - http://www.cueballmusic.com/index.asp
Cahal Dunne - http://www.cahaldunne.com/
Tony Egan - http://www.tonyegan.info
Michael Gallagher - http://www.mike-gallagher.com/
Terry Griffith - http://www.pittsburghirish.org/griffith
Guaranteed Irish - http://www.guaranteedirish.info/
Hiraeth - http://lugh.as.cmu.edu/Hiraeth.htm
Hooley - http://www.hooley.info
John McCann - http://www.johnmccannlive.com/
Corned Beef & Curry - http:// www.cornedbeefncurry.com/
Michael Murphy & TSRB http://www.michaelmurphy.us/
Na Gaels - http://www.pittsburghirish.org/nagaels
NEW Pittsburgh Police Emerald Society Pipes and Drums - http://www.policebagpipes.com/
NEW Prisoner’s Apprentice - http://www.myspace.com/prisonersapprentice
Jack Puskar - http://www.jackpuskar.com
Red Hand Paddy - http://www.redhandpaddy.com/
Rolling Scones - http://www.rollingscones.com
Whiskey Limerick - http://www.whiskeylimerick.com

Pittsburgh Irish Dance Schools
Bell School of Irish Dance http://bellschool.com/about.htm
Burke Irish Dancers http://www.burkeirishdance.com/
Pittsburgh Irish Reelers http://www.pghirishreelers.com/
Shovlin Academy of Dance http://www.shovlinacademy.com/
Pittsburgh Ceili Club www.pittsburghceiliclub.org/

Pittsburgh Irish Sports
Pittsburgh Irish Rowing Club http://www.pittsburghirishrowingclub.com/
Pittsburgh Banshees www.pittsburghbanshees@yahoo.com
Pittsburgh Celtics www.pittsburghcelticsgfc.com/
Pittsburgh Hurling Club www.pitthurling.org/

Inspirational Moments
Sponsored by

January - The Irish Society for Education and Charity
February - Dorothy Weldon, Immediate Past National President, LAOH
March - GDC Fine Jewelry, North Huntingdon PA
April - AOH Division 17, Monroeville
October - LAOH Maude Gonne, Division 32, Carnegie

GUESTS and INTERVIEWS 2009

April 19 -Tom Atkins, Actor in ‘A Moon for the Misbegotten’
April 12 & 26 - Easter Rising Program 1 & 2

May 3 - Jack Webber, Knights of Equity
May 10 - Mother’s Day
May 17 - Paul Evans, AOH St. Patrick Division 4, North Hills
May - Michael Bartley, Managing Editor, WQED

Jun 7 - Tommy Boyle, The Irish Lads
Jun - H.E. Michael Collins, the Irish Ambassador
June 28 - Miss Smiling Irish Eyes 2009 and 2002, Bridget and Lauren Byrne

Nov 8 - Terri Blanchette, Community Programs Director, Senator John Heinz History Center


SPONSORS OF THE IRELAND REPORT 2009

January, February & March - Goodrich, Goodrich Attorney’s At Law, 412.281.1455
April - AOH Division 1, South Hills
May - Knights of Equity http://www.knightsofequity.com/
June - AOH Division 4, North Hills
July - Ireland Institute of Pittsburgh
August - AOH Division 21, Garfield-Bloomfield
September - AOH County Board
October - AOH Division 32, Carnegie
November - Irish American Unity Conference
December - Daughters of Erin, http://www.knightsofequity.com/doepgh.html

Irish Song - One

Here is U2 performing One - enjoy.

Irish Joke of the Week

A Kerryman attended a concert where a ventriloquist who fancied himself as a comedian told about twenty Kerryman jokes in a row.

"Look," shouted the Kerryman, standing up in the audience, "I'm fed up being insulted by all these jokes. We're not as stupid as you make out."

"Please sit down sir & be calm," said the ventriloquist, "after all it's only a joke, and don't tell me that Kerrymen haven't got a sense of humor."

"I'm not talking to you," said the Kerryman, "I'm talking to the little fellow on your knee..."

Famous Irishman - Patrick Henry Pearse

This week's famous Irishman is Patrick Henry Pearse.

Patrick Henry Pearse
(10 November 1879 – 3 May 1916)
was a teacher, barrister, poet, writer, nationalist and political activist who was one of the leaders of the Easter Rising in 1916.

To Honor Our Irish Ancestors ...

A note from National AOH President Seamus Boyle:

Brothers, a letter will go out April 25 requesting that all divisions throughout the country honor our ancestors who died or immigrated in the 1840s. This is in conjunction with the Irish Government Commoration on May 17.

If you have a monument in your city or area, please publicize it and have a ceremony in your ancestors' honor on the 17th. If possible have a Mass in your hall or your parish in their memory, but please do something to honor their sacrifice.

Below is a copy of a flyer you can use to advertise with ideas and information. Please use it.

-- Seamus Boyle National President


SUNDAY, MAY 17, IS COMMEMORATION DAY TO HONOR THE VICTIMS OF THE GREAT HUNGER IN IRELAND 1845-51

RECENTLY THE IRISH GOVERNMENT FORMED A COMMEMORATION COMMITTEE TO HONOR THE VICTIMS OF THE GREAT HUNGER. PEOPLE OF IRISH HERITAGE ARE ASKED TO PARTICIPATE AT MASSES AND OTHER MEMORIAL SERVICES. THIS IS A WORLD WIDE EVENT BECAUSE OF THE MANY PEOPLE WHO LEFT IRELAND IN ORDER TO SURVIVE THE HUNGER.

ALL IRISH ORGANIZATIONS SHOULD GET TOGETHER AND PLAN ACTIVITIES TO HONOR THEIR FAMILY ANCESTORS ON THIS DATE IN THEIR LOCAL AREAS. EDUCATIONAL WORKSHOPS AND MATERIAL SHOULD BE USED TO EDUCATE PEOPLE ABOUT THIS MAN MADE FAMINE. FOOD WAS BEING EXPORTED WHILE THE PEOPLE WERE STARVING.

FORM COMMITTEES, CONTACT PUBLIC OFFICIALS FOR HELP, ASK FOR HELP FROM THE NEWS MEDIA. THERE ARE SOME MONUMENTS TO THESE VICTIMS WHERE MEMORIAL SERVICES COULD TAKE PLACE. CONSULT WITH CHURCHES FOR MASSES.

AFTER WAITING FOR 150 YEARS, WE FINALLY HAVE AN OPPORTUNITY TO HONOR THESE VICTIMS. WE SHOULD RESPECT AND HONOR THEIR MEMORY BY HAVING OVERFLOW CROWDS AT ALL THESE MASSES AND CEREMONIES.

IT IS THE LEAST WE CAN DO AFTER CONSIDERING THE DEPTH OF THEIR SUFFERING FOR THEIR FAITH.

CHECK: WWW.IRISHHUNGERMARTYRS.ORG FOR SOME HISTORY.

Make copies of this flyer to spread the word. Thank you.

Irish/Celtic Festivals Slated

We've posted a schedule of Irish/Celtic festivals taking place throughout PA this summer and fall.

You can view the link at http://irishpennsylvania.com/calendar.aspx

Please have a look at it and let us know if there's anything you'd like to add. Some of the festivals don't have dates yet, but we'll include those as soon as we get them.

Thanks and best wishes,

Mike Quinlin
travel@irishpennsylvania.com

Erin Go Broke

Thanks to our good brother Chris Cahillane once again for alerting us to this alarming, fascinating and informative Op-Ed article, "Erin Go Broke" by Columnist Paul Krugman of The New York Times.

AOH and LAOH Award Winners Feted

Richard F. (Shag) Shaughnessy and Onnie Costanzo are the 2009 Hibernians of the Year for Division 32's AOH and LAOH, respectively.

They were honored at the organizations' joint Communion breakfast April 19 at The Priory on the North Side along with the year's Service Award winners, Dan Taylor Jr. and Patricia McGrath.

John Graf, proprietor of The Priory, emceed the program.

Division 32 chaplain Father Jeremiah O'Shea said Mass at the beginning of the event.

Irish Song - Dreams

The Corrs do a contemporary version of Dreams - enjoy.

Irish Joke of the Week

McQuillan walked into a bar and ordered martini after martini, each time removing the olives and placing them in a jar. When the jar was filled with olives and all the drinks consumed, he started to leave.
"S'cuse me," said a customer, who was puzzled over what McQuillan had done. "What was that all about?"

"Nothing," he replied, "my wife just sent me out for a jar of olives."

Famous Irish Woman - Mary Robinson

This week's famous Irishman is Mary Robinson

Mary Robinson
(born 21 May 1944)
was the first female President of Ireland, serving from 1990 to 1997, and the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, from 1997 to 2002. She first rose to prominence as an academic, barrister, campaigner and member of the Irish senate (1969–1989).She is credited by many as having revitalised and liberalised a previously conservative political office.

Here Are 2009 Convention Details

From Jim Green, 2009 Convention Committee

Brothers and Sister Hibernians:

The AOH/LAOH 2009 State Convention committee is now accepting "Event Registration" applications, and we are attaching a copy of the document to this note for your use.

You may also visit our convention website, as listed below, which includes a registration "tab". If you have any questions, please use the "Contact" tab on the website to send a message to our convention co-chairs.

http://www.2009pastateconvention.com/

There will be additional specific information available shortly on that site regarding the event themes, etc. This type of information will be found under a new "Social Events" tab.

Don't forget that you can secure your hotel reservations now too, and that can be done at any time by phone or internet. Please refer to the "Home" tab for reservation information, or to reserve by phone call the direct number for the Greentree Radisson at 1-888-201-1718, or the Radisson hotel main number at 1-800-201-1718.

In any case, please mention "AOH09" as the promotional code for our special rate of $99.00 per night.

We also encourage you, and your Division and County Boards, to help support the convention by using the information found under the "Ad Book" tab of the website.

Our local committee is making great progress in our preparations to host the convention, and we're working very hard to make this a great experience for all of you.

We hope that you will do what you can to attend, and/or help to send delegates to represent you, and/or participate in our Ad Book offer. We are currently running fundraisers to help us to keep the costs down for you, and the families and guests that join us, but we need your help by supporting things like the Ad Book. We appreciate any help you can give us in that regard.

Working for you in our motto of Friendship, Unity, and Christian Charity,

The 2009 AOH/LAOH Convention Committee

Irish Ambassador To Visit Pittsburgh

The Irish Ambassador to the United States, H.E. Michael Collins, will be in Pittsburgh on Thursday, April 23, for a reception at the Ireland Institute of Pittsburgh at the invitation of Jim Lamb.

Following the reception, the AOH County Board is hosting a social gathering at the Harp N' Fiddle in the Strip District from 7:30 to 10 p.m. We will provide snacks and munchies; drinks may be purchased.

The Ambassador is looking forward to the opportunity to "meet and greet" the many members of the Irish community in the Greater Pittsburgh area. He will address the group for a few minutes around 8 p.m. A short question and answer period will follow.

Mike Gallagher will be the entertainment at the Harp that night. He'll start as soon as the Q & A session ends.

There will be no admission charge and no baskets to sell or buttons to purchase. Fifty/fifties are always a possibility when the Irish get together, but nothing is planned.

Please spread the message and bring your spouse, bring your friends, or just come by yourself. Let's show the Irish Ambassador how Pittsburgh rocks the Irish.

In Hibernian Friendship,

Jim Green
AOH Allegheny County Vice President

Irish Song - I Know My Love

Here are The Corrs and The Chieftains performing I know My Love - enjoy.

Irish Joke of the Week

An Irishman and an American were sitting in the bar at Shannon Airport.

"I've come to meet my brother," said the Irishman. "He's due to fly in from
America in an hour's time. It's his first trip home in forty years".

"Will you be able to recognize him?" asked the American.

"I'm sure I won't, said the Irishman,"after all, he's been away for a long time".

"I wonder if he'll recognize you?" said the American.

"Of course he will," said the Irishman. "Sure, an' I haven't been away at all".

Famous Irishman - Charles Stewart Parnell

This week's famous Irishman is Charles Stewart Parnell.

Charles Stewart Parnell
(27 June 1846 – 6 October 1891)
was an Irish Protestant landowner, nationalist political leader, land reform agitator, Home Rule MP in the Parliament of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland and founder and leader of the Irish Parliamentary Party.

Cool New Web Site IrishCentral.Com

The Founder/Publisher of Irish America Magazine and Irish Voice newspaper launched a new Web site IrishCentral.com on St.Patrick’s Day and is now the largest and fastest growing Irish community portal on the web. They had well over 250,000 readers on our first day. Among those who picked up IrishCentral stories were The New York Times, Washington Post, People, Huffington Post, ABC News and Yahoo News.

They're attempting to link the Irish family from sea to shining sea and they would love you to be part of it. Suggestions, submissions and Irish videos are all welcome.

A luxury trip to Ireland, valued at $10,000, is also on offer for one of our lucky first viewers. You can click here to enter their Irish Getaway contest.

Scholarship Deadline Is dnesday, April 15

The deadline for submitting applications for the AOH Allegheny County Scholarship is next Wednesday, April 15.

I will accept any application postmarked by the post office with that date or prior.

Thanks, and in our motto,

Jim Green
AOH Allegheny County VP

Fr. Tom O'Donnell's Easter Greeting

As Hibernians, our life revolves around our faith and especially the Holy Eucharist which is the center of our faith.

As people of faith and good works, we work, pray and play every day to live out our belief, especially the fundamental principle of our faith -- our love for Christ in the Blessed Sacrament.

Let us do our best to support and encourage one another in every way and make every effort by word and example to live out the Gospel message of service to one another exemplified by Christ at the Last Supper and the sacrifice of his life on Good Friday..

Let us celebrate the Feast of Easter with joy and thanksgiving for the victory which Christ has won for us over sin and death. I wish all of you every blessing and grace of the Risen Christ at this Easter Season. I will remember all of you in my Masses during the Easter Triduum.

With every blessing and best wish in Unity, Fraternity and Christian Charity,

Father Tom O’Donnell, AOH Penna. State Chaplain

How To Make Your Own Bailey's

It's pretty easy to make your own Bailey's - see recipe here.

Host Family Needed

Hi all,

The Ireland Institute of Pittsburgh is looking for a host family for 1 participant from end of this week through 14th May (5weeks).

Host families are compensated $135/week, and provide access to public transport, meals as per your schedule, nurturing atmosphere. for the participant.

Johnny Wright is looking to move as he is currently sharing a room with another participant and would like his own room for the last few weeks of the program. johnny is one of 20 young people here on a Wider horizons program.

Johnny's work placement is in the service department of a local auto dealership. he will rely on Public transportation to get to the placement and to the Friday classes he attends at Duquesene University.

If you or anyone you know can help please email Rob Tierney at rtierney@iiofpitt.org or phone him or me at 412.394.3900.

Thanks,
Jim Lamb

Here's How to Register for AOH State Convention

Here's a note from Jim Green, county vice president and convention committee person
Brothers and Sister Hibernians:

The AOH/LAOH 2009 State Convention website has been updated with "Package Registration" information and is available immediately for your use.

Please use the link to the convention site as listed below, and also note that you may need to click your "refresh" button on the top of your page to get the most current view of the site, which will include the registration "tab".

If you have any questions, please use the "Contact" tab on the website to send a message to our convention co-chairs and myself.

http://www.2009pastateconvention.com/

There will be additional specific information available shortly regarding the event themes, etc.

This type of information will be found under the "Social Events" tab. General information and pricing for each event, as well as the food and drink plans, are available today under the new registration tab.

Don't forget that you can secure your hotel reservations now too, and that can be done at any time by phone or internet.

Please refer to the "Home" tab for that information. We also encourage you, and your Division and County Boards, to help support the convention by using the information found under the "Ad Book" tab of the website.

Our local committee is making great progress in our preparations to host the convention, and we're working very hard to make this a great experience for all of you.

We hope that you will do what you can to attend, and/or help to send delegates to represent you, and/or participate in our Ad Book offer. We are currently running fundraisers to help us to keep the costs down for you, and the families and guests that join us, but we need your help by supporting things like the Ad Book. We appreciate any help you can give us in that regard.

Working for you in our motto of Friendship, Unity, and Christian Charity,

The 2009 AOH/LAOH Convention Committee

AOH 32 Junior Division Tours Gettysburg

The Charge of the Famous Irish Brigade at Gettysburg
Re-enacted by the AOH 32 Junior AOH & LAOH Divisions
from Bishop Canevin High School

On Wednesday, March 25, 35 members of the AOH 32 Junior AOH and LAOH Divisions from Bishop Canevin High School went on a trip to Gettysburg to visit the sites where the famous Irish Brigade fought. They left at 4:00 a.m. and watched the movie Gettysburg on the way in order to get some insight into the battle.

When the Junior AOH and LAOH arrived at Gettysburg they saw the movie narrated by Morgan Freeman and the newly restored Cyclorama at the new National Visitor Center.

After lunch, they were met at noon by the resident Irish Brigade expert/tour guide, Rich Kohr Jr. He led them on a tour of some of the battle sites of Gettysburg, including, the “Wheat Field” (which is the most famous battle site of the Irish Brigade at Gettysburg), Devil’s Den, Little Round Top, and the end point of Pickett’s Charge.

At the Wheat Field, Mr. Kohr aligned our group as the 116th Pennsylvania Regiment of the Irish Brigade would have been arranged as they entered the battle.
Students were assigned numbers and when Mr. Kohr called out their number they had to fall to the ground to simulate the casualties sustained by the Irish Brigade.

The Jr. AOH got to see the Irish Brigade Monument, which depicts a life sized Irish wolfhound lying at the foot of a Celtic cross.The walking tour concluded with the group surveying the battle field from Little Round Top. They then boarded the bus to see the Pennsylvania Monument and the Union side of Pickett’s Charge.

The students had a wonderful time and fulfilled one of the goals of the Jr. AOH and LAOH which is to cultivate an appreciation of Irish tradition and history. The students look forward to similar experiences in the future.

Many thanks to AOH 32 brother and Junior Division Leader
Jim "Bear" O'Connell for organizing and supervising the tour
and for providing this story and pictures.

Note about the Irish Brigade and Pennsylvania Monuments:
The green Quincy granite monument to the 63rd, 69th and 88th New York Infantry regiments of the famous “Irish Brigade” is one of the most handsome monuments on the Battlefield. These units fought with valor in the Wheatfield on the second day of the battle. The bronze and granite base, which supports a carved Celtic cross, features traditional Irish symbols. The Irish wolfhound lying at the base represents the faith and devotion to duty, as exhibited by the soldiers in the brigade. The monument’s designer, William Rudolf O’Donovan (1844-1920) had no formal training as an artist and, in fact, served in the Confederate Army. Following the war, he moved to New York City, where he opened an art studio and made his name as a well known sculptor of memorial pieces.

The Reverend Father William Corby was the chaplain of the Irish Brigade at Gettysburg. Father Corby was known to administer the last rites on the battlefield while under fire. His statue on Hancock Avenue, designed by sculptor Samuel A. M. Murray (1869-1941), is mounted on the identical boulder from which he gave absolution to the brigade on July 2, 1863 — the second day of battle. Following the war, he served as president of the University of Notre Dame. An identical statue of Father Corby can be found on the South Bend, Indiana campus, standing on a rock taken from the Gettysburg Battlefield.

The Pennsylvania Monument is the largest and most complex memorial at Gettysburg National Military Park. This tribute to the Pennsylvania soldiers who fought at Gettysburg includes 90 bronze tablets at its base that contain their names. Designed by New York architect W. Liance Cottrell (1868-1964), the monument features sculpture by of a number of artists, including sculptors Lee Lawrie (1877-1963), Otto Schweizer (1863-1955), W. Clark Nobel and Cyrus Dallin (1861-1944). On the dome stands Winged Victory, the work of Samuel Murray, who originally studied painting and shared studio space with Thomas Eakins, one of America’s greatest painters. The Pennsylvania Monument is composed of 1,252 tons of cut granite, 1,410 tons of steel, 740 tons of sand, 366 tons of cement, 50 tons of steel bars and 22 tons of bronze.

Irish Song - Redemption

Here is a unique Irish rendition of Redemption Song by Ziggy Marley featuring the Chieftains - enjoy!

Irish Joke of the Week

A man goes to the optician's.
"I’ve got to the bottom of your problem sir," says the optician.
"You are totally color-blind."
"Well, that’s a real bolt out of the green," says the patient.

Famous Irishman - JFK

This week's famous Irishman is John Fitzgerald Kennedy.

John Fitzgerald Kennedy
(May 29, 1917 – November 22, 1963)
often referred to by his initials JFK, was the thirty-fifth President of the United States, serving from 1961 until his assassination in 1963.

April Irish Events

HERE'S THE LATEST AND GREATEST OF ALL THINGS RELATED TO IRISH ENTERTAINMENT IN PITTSBURGH FOR APRIL, 2009
COURTESY OF OUR GOOD FRIEND DIANE BYRNES FROM ECHOES OF ERIN

ECHOES OF ERIN, WEDO 810 am
Sunday’s, 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM
Irish / Celtic Radio Programming
www.pittsburghirish.org/echoesoferin
diane.byrnes@verizon.net
http://echoesoferin.blogspot.com
ONLINE: http://www.wedo810.com

Diane V. Byrnes DATELINE IRISH
78 GRANT AVE.,PITTSBURGH, PA. 15223
412.781.6368

Dateline Irish sponsored by BrandMill, LLC - marketing experts who will transform your business through fact-based processes and innovative marketing systems designed to achieve dramatic, measurable and profitable results.

Sunday, March 29

• Echoes of Erin on WEDO 810AM, 1:00 PM. The Ireland Report with Diane Byrnes, County Allegheny. Guest in studio, Carole Harland of St. Andrews Society and Tartan Day.
• The Ireland Institute of Pittsburgh is seeking Host Families for young adults, 18-26, from Ireland and Northern Ireland. Call 412.394.3900, Website: www.iiofpitt.org.
  

Tuesday, March 31

• Gaelic Storm perform in Concert at The Westmoreland Cultural Trust, 21 West Otteman St., Greensburg, 7:30PM. Tickets: 724-836-8000
• Mullaney’s Harp & Fiddle, 2329 Penn Ave., in The Strip, 412-642-6622: hosting Ceiling Dancing from 7:30pm.
• Paddy’s Pour House, 215 East Main Street, Carnegie, 412-279-0770, it’s Irish Night with Guinness and Harp Special from 8:00 PM.
  

Wednesday, April 1

• Paddy’s Pour House, 215 East Main Street, Carnegie features The Potters Reel, 7:00 PM.

Friday, April 3

• Paddy’s Pour House, 215 East Main Street, Carnegie features Sean McClorey on vocals & guitar at 9:00 PM.
• Mullaney’s Harp & Fiddle, 2329 Penn Ave., in The Strip, 412-642-6622 features
  

Saturday, April 4

• Tartan Day at Schenley High School (old Reisenstein School in East Liberty), 11:00AM to 4:00PM. Information tartandaypa@verizon.net.
• A Night At The Races at the Lawrenceville Moose, 120 51st Street in Lawrenceville. $10.00 per Adult; Doors open at 7:00PM. Information Maureen O’Toole 412-913-4184 or Steve Kurpiewski 412-734-9648. Sponsored by the 2009 AOH Convention Committee
• Paddy’s Pour House, 215 East Main Street, Carnegie features Mark Guiser at 9:00PM.
• Mullaney’s Harp & Fiddle, 2329 Penn Ave., in The Strip, 412-642-6622 features
  

Sunday, April 5

• Mass of Thanksgiving at St. Bede’s Church in Point Breeze at 12:00 Noon with Fr. Bernard J. McGuckian, S.J. , Editor of the “Pioneer Magazine” and Spiritual Director from Dublin. Lunch to follow, reservations required – Peggy Bond at 412-343-3040. Fr. McGuckian will appear on TV-EWTN on Wednesday, April 8.
• Echoes of Erin 1:00PM on WEDO 810AM – The Ireland Report with Patricia Sharkey, Editor of the Donegal News Letter, www.dun-na-ngall.com. I’ll conduct a telephone interview with local actor Tom Atkins performing in Pittsburgh Public Theatre’s “A Moon for the Misbegotten” by Eugene O’Neill
  

Friday, April 10

• Paddy’s Pour House, 215 East Main Street, Carnegie features Mark Guiser at 9:00PM.

Saturday, April 11

• All Ireland Social at the American Legion Hall, 5857 Forbes Ave. in Squirrel Hill, 8:00PM. Music with CCE Musicians. Information: Ray Connolly at 412-373-7252.
• Paddy’s Pour House, 215 East Main Street, Carnegie features Jack Puskar at 9:00PM.
  

Monday, April 13

• Paddy’s Pour House, 215 East Main Street, Carnegie features An Acoustic Jam Session at 7:00PM.

Wednesday, April 15

• Paddy’s Pour House, 215 East Main Street, Carnegie features Potters Reel at 7:00PM.

Thursday, April 16 through Saturday, May 17

• Pittsburgh Public Theatre presents “A Moon for the Misbegotten” by Eugene O’Neill, staring Tom Atkins. Directed by Pamela Berlin at the O’Reilly Theatre. Tickets 412-316-1600 or www.ppt.org.

Friday, April 17

• Mullaney’s Harp & Fiddle, 2329 Penn Ave., in The Strip, 412-642-6622 features Corned Beef & Curry at 9:00PM.
• Paddy’s Pour House, 215 East Main Street, Carnegie features Mark Guiser at 9:00PM.
  

Saturday, April 18

• AOH Division 17, Monroeville presents Corned Beef & Curry 8:00PM at Club Rooms, Broadway Blvd. / Route 130, Monroeville. Kevin O’Donnell at KO719@comcast.net or 412- 613-3500.
• Paddy’s Pour House, 215 East Main Street, Carnegie features Sean McClorey at 9:00PM.
  

Sunday, April 19

• The Ladies Ancient Order of Hibernians, St. Anne Division 21, South Hills, celebrates 100th Anniversary with Mass and Brunch at South Hills Country Club beginning at 10:30 AM. Tickets $30.00, call Eileen O’Malley at 412-341-2974 or email slainte@pitt.edu or President Jean O’Malley 412-531-3855.
• AOH Sean MacBride Division 32, Mass & Communion Breakfast at The Priory on the North Side. www.aoh32.org
  

Wednesday, April 22

• Paddy’s Pour House, 215 East Main Street, Carnegie features Potters Reel at 7:00PM.

Friday, April 24

• Paddy’s Pour House, 215 East Main Street, Carnegie features Ballad Singer Mike Gallagher at 9:00PM.

Saturday, April 25

• AOH Division 1, South Hills presents ‘A Night of Irish Music’ at the Castle Shannon Volunteer Fire Hall with Ballad Singer Mike Gallagher and Corned Beef & Curry with John McCann, Bob Banjeree & Todd Hartman. Tickets Rick O’Malley 412-401-3945 or Tom Long 412-561-4181. Doors open 6:30pm.
• Paddy’s Pour House, 215 East Main Street, Carnegie features Jack Puskar at 9:00PM.
  

Monday, April 27

• Paddy’s Pour House, 215 East Main Street, Carnegie features an Acoustic Jam Session at 7:00PM.

Wednesday, April 29

• Paddy’s Pour House, 215 East Main Street, Carnegie features Potters Reel at 7:00PM.