Irish Toasts
Here's to the land of the shamrock so green.
Here's to each lad and his darlin' colleen.
Here's to the ones we love dearest and most.
May God bless old Ireland - that's this Irishman's toast.
Friday, October 31, 2014
Thursday, October 30, 2014
Wednesday, October 29, 2014
Irish Thought for October 29...
Irish Writers
Richard Brinsley Sheridan
After eloping with Elizabeth Linley (for whose honor he had already fought two duels), Irish-born dramatist Richard Brinsely Sheridan began living a fashionable life in London that was rather outside his means. He set about making his fortune through his pen, and his first play, The Rivals, became a great success and introduced the durable character of Mrs. Malaprop to the world. His later work, The School for Scandal, is now considered a masterpiece of comedic drama. Sheridan later took over ownership of the Drury Lane theater, and shortly after, he left his career as a playwright to become a member of Parliament.
Richard Brinsley Sheridan
After eloping with Elizabeth Linley (for whose honor he had already fought two duels), Irish-born dramatist Richard Brinsely Sheridan began living a fashionable life in London that was rather outside his means. He set about making his fortune through his pen, and his first play, The Rivals, became a great success and introduced the durable character of Mrs. Malaprop to the world. His later work, The School for Scandal, is now considered a masterpiece of comedic drama. Sheridan later took over ownership of the Drury Lane theater, and shortly after, he left his career as a playwright to become a member of Parliament.
Tuesday, October 28, 2014
Monday, October 27, 2014
Irish Thought for October 27...
Quotations
It's a lovely country, but very melancholy, except that people never stop talking.
-Virginia Woolf
It's a lovely country, but very melancholy, except that people never stop talking.
-Virginia Woolf
Sunday, October 26, 2014
Irish Thought for October 26...
Irish-American Heroes
Commodore John Barry (March 25, 1745 - September 13, 1803) was a her of the Revolutionary War. Barry, who was born in 1745 in County Wexford, adopted Philadelphia as his home. During the war he commanded a series of ships, including the Lexinton, which dealt the first naval defeat of the war to the British, and later, the Alliance, which fought in the final naval engagement of the war. After the war, when the Navy was reorganized, he was appointed first on the list of captains, and his commission was signed by George Washington. Congress passed a resolution in 2005 recognizing Barry as the first flag officer of the United States Navy; in 2011, the U.S. Naval Academy approved a memorial to Barry, as he is now considered the founder of the U.S. Navy.
Commodore John Barry (March 25, 1745 - September 13, 1803) was a her of the Revolutionary War. Barry, who was born in 1745 in County Wexford, adopted Philadelphia as his home. During the war he commanded a series of ships, including the Lexinton, which dealt the first naval defeat of the war to the British, and later, the Alliance, which fought in the final naval engagement of the war. After the war, when the Navy was reorganized, he was appointed first on the list of captains, and his commission was signed by George Washington. Congress passed a resolution in 2005 recognizing Barry as the first flag officer of the United States Navy; in 2011, the U.S. Naval Academy approved a memorial to Barry, as he is now considered the founder of the U.S. Navy.
Saturday, October 25, 2014
Irish Thought for October 25...
Irish Blessings
May the winds of fortune sail you,
May you sail a gentle sea.
May it always be the other guy
Who says, "This drink's on me."
May the winds of fortune sail you,
May you sail a gentle sea.
May it always be the other guy
Who says, "This drink's on me."
Friday, October 24, 2014
Irish Thought for October 24...
Irish-American Facts
The first successful daily newspaper in the United States, The Philadelphia Packet was founded by the Irish-born John Dunlap in 1771 and went daily in 1784.
The first successful daily newspaper in the United States, The Philadelphia Packet was founded by the Irish-born John Dunlap in 1771 and went daily in 1784.
Thursday, October 23, 2014
Irish Thought for October 23...
Irish Proverbs
There never wan an old slipper but there was an old stocking to match it.
There never wan an old slipper but there was an old stocking to match it.
Wednesday, October 22, 2014
Irish Thought for October 22...
Traveling Ireland
Since 1981, Slane Concert has been held annually on the grounds of Slane Castle, at the initiative of its owner, the 8th Marquess Conyngham. Slane Castle is located in the town of Slane, within the Boyne Valley of County Meath, Ireland. The castle has been the family home of the Conyngham family since the 18th century. Artists who have performed at Slane include David Bowie, Bob Dylan, Queen, The Rolling Stones, Bruce Springsteen, Guns N' Roses, R.E.M., The Verve, Robbie Williams, Bryan Adams, U2, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Madonna and Oasis.
Since 1981, Slane Concert has been held annually on the grounds of Slane Castle, at the initiative of its owner, the 8th Marquess Conyngham. Slane Castle is located in the town of Slane, within the Boyne Valley of County Meath, Ireland. The castle has been the family home of the Conyngham family since the 18th century. Artists who have performed at Slane include David Bowie, Bob Dylan, Queen, The Rolling Stones, Bruce Springsteen, Guns N' Roses, R.E.M., The Verve, Robbie Williams, Bryan Adams, U2, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Madonna and Oasis.
Tuesday, October 21, 2014
Irish Thought for October 21...
Limericks
There was a young maid of Tralee
Whose knowledge of French was "Oui, oui."
When they said, "Parlez vous?"
She replied, "Same as you."
She was famed for her bright repartee.
There was a young maid of Tralee
Whose knowledge of French was "Oui, oui."
When they said, "Parlez vous?"
She replied, "Same as you."
She was famed for her bright repartee.
Monday, October 20, 2014
Irish Thought for October 20...
Irish Symbols
The Book of Kells
A beautiful illuminated manuscript believed to have been created at the end of the 8th century, The Book of Kells survived Viking attacks, use as a ledger for 11th century property transactions, Cromwell's invasions, and the theft of its jewel-encrusted gold cover. It was sent to Dublin in the 17th century for safekeeping, where it was acquired by it current caretaker, Trinity College. It's a lage codex of the New Testament, with summaries, etymologies, prefaces, and most notably gorgeous decorations that clearly demonstrate the dedication and painstaking vision of the Irish monks who created it.
The Book of Kells
A beautiful illuminated manuscript believed to have been created at the end of the 8th century, The Book of Kells survived Viking attacks, use as a ledger for 11th century property transactions, Cromwell's invasions, and the theft of its jewel-encrusted gold cover. It was sent to Dublin in the 17th century for safekeeping, where it was acquired by it current caretaker, Trinity College. It's a lage codex of the New Testament, with summaries, etymologies, prefaces, and most notably gorgeous decorations that clearly demonstrate the dedication and painstaking vision of the Irish monks who created it.
 |
| Folio 32v shows Christ enthroned from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Book_of_Kells |
Sunday, October 19, 2014
Irish Thought for October 19...
Irish Musicians
Van Morrison
The critically acclaimed and popular Northern Irish singer and songwriter Van Morrison was born on August 31, 1945. Known for his prickly and idiosyncratic personality, as well as his transcendental live performances, Van Morrison has make the studio albums Astral Weeks and Moondance, which are often regarded as among the greatest ever recorded.
Van Morrison
The critically acclaimed and popular Northern Irish singer and songwriter Van Morrison was born on August 31, 1945. Known for his prickly and idiosyncratic personality, as well as his transcendental live performances, Van Morrison has make the studio albums Astral Weeks and Moondance, which are often regarded as among the greatest ever recorded.
Saturday, October 18, 2014
Irish Thought for October 18...
Irish Proverbs
The person of the greatest talk is the person of the least work.
The person of the greatest talk is the person of the least work.
Friday, October 17, 2014
Irish Thought for October 17...
Irish-American Writers
Pete Hamill
Born in Brooklyn to Irish-immigrant parents, Pete Hamill combined a native New Yorker's love of his city with the Irish gift of gab to become a voice of the city, most notably as a longtime columnist for the New York Post and the New York Daily News. Over the course of his career, he wrote for a wide variety of publications on many subjects, ranging from Vietnam and Northern Ireland to rock 'n' roll and boxing. Hamill is the author of 11 novels, as well as the memoir A Drinking Life and several other works of nonfiction.
Pete Hamill
Born in Brooklyn to Irish-immigrant parents, Pete Hamill combined a native New Yorker's love of his city with the Irish gift of gab to become a voice of the city, most notably as a longtime columnist for the New York Post and the New York Daily News. Over the course of his career, he wrote for a wide variety of publications on many subjects, ranging from Vietnam and Northern Ireland to rock 'n' roll and boxing. Hamill is the author of 11 novels, as well as the memoir A Drinking Life and several other works of nonfiction.
Thursday, October 16, 2014
Irish Thought for October 16...
Quotations
For, as the Roman Empire fell, as all through Europe matted, unwashed barbarians descended on the Roman cities, looting artifacts and burning books, the Irish, who were just learning to read and write, took up the great labor of copying all of Western literature - everything that could lay their hands on ...Without the Mission of the Irish Monks, who single-handedly refounded European civilization throughout the continent in the bays and valleys of their exile, the world that came after them would have been an entirely different one - a world without books. And our own world would never have come to be.
- Thomas Cahill
For, as the Roman Empire fell, as all through Europe matted, unwashed barbarians descended on the Roman cities, looting artifacts and burning books, the Irish, who were just learning to read and write, took up the great labor of copying all of Western literature - everything that could lay their hands on ...Without the Mission of the Irish Monks, who single-handedly refounded European civilization throughout the continent in the bays and valleys of their exile, the world that came after them would have been an entirely different one - a world without books. And our own world would never have come to be.
- Thomas Cahill
Wednesday, October 15, 2014
Irish Thought for October 15...
Irish Blessings
May you have all the happiness
And luck that life can hold -
And at the end of all your rainbows
May you find your pot of gold.
May you have all the happiness
And luck that life can hold -
And at the end of all your rainbows
May you find your pot of gold.
Tuesday, October 14, 2014
Irish Thought for October 14...
Irish-American Movies
A Tree Grows in Brooklyn
The impoverished Irish-American Nolan family struggles to survive with a father battling alcoholism in 1900s New York as their intelligent daughter Katie (Dorothy McGuire) comes of age. James Dunn, as the father, won the Academy Award for Best Actor in a Supporting Role. Directed by Elia Kazan.
A Tree Grows in Brooklyn
The impoverished Irish-American Nolan family struggles to survive with a father battling alcoholism in 1900s New York as their intelligent daughter Katie (Dorothy McGuire) comes of age. James Dunn, as the father, won the Academy Award for Best Actor in a Supporting Role. Directed by Elia Kazan.
Monday, October 13, 2014
Irish Thought for October 13...
Irish Folklore
Leprechauns
The leprechaun is a solitary creature, focusing all of his attention on making shoes. He can usually be found holding both a shoe and a cobbling hammer. Leprechauns are the size of a bulky young boy, with wrinkled faces, gleaming eyes, and surprisingly graceful movements. They're also known for their love of beer, foul language, and smoking pipes called dudeens. Besides making shoes, leprechauns guard fairy treasure from mortals, although their hidden stashes are revealed by rainbows. If a mortal can catch a reclusive leprechaun and demand its treasure, the leprechaun has no choice but to comply, but this happens rarely. There is no such thing as a female leprechaun.
Leprechauns
The leprechaun is a solitary creature, focusing all of his attention on making shoes. He can usually be found holding both a shoe and a cobbling hammer. Leprechauns are the size of a bulky young boy, with wrinkled faces, gleaming eyes, and surprisingly graceful movements. They're also known for their love of beer, foul language, and smoking pipes called dudeens. Besides making shoes, leprechauns guard fairy treasure from mortals, although their hidden stashes are revealed by rainbows. If a mortal can catch a reclusive leprechaun and demand its treasure, the leprechaun has no choice but to comply, but this happens rarely. There is no such thing as a female leprechaun.
Sunday, October 12, 2014
Saturday, October 11, 2014
Irish Thought for October 11..
Irish Writers
Edna O'Brien
Her first novel, The Country Girls (1960), told the story of convent schoolgirls breaking away from the strictures of their youth. The book set off a huge scandal - it was prohibited, denounced from pulpits, even burned (in her home village, no less). She went on to write numerous novels and short stories, as well as plays and a recently published memoir titled Country Girl - clearly the firestorm did not stop her from writing. However, O'Brien has never since lived in Ireland.
Edna O'Brien
Her first novel, The Country Girls (1960), told the story of convent schoolgirls breaking away from the strictures of their youth. The book set off a huge scandal - it was prohibited, denounced from pulpits, even burned (in her home village, no less). She went on to write numerous novels and short stories, as well as plays and a recently published memoir titled Country Girl - clearly the firestorm did not stop her from writing. However, O'Brien has never since lived in Ireland.
Friday, October 10, 2014
Irish Thought for October 10...
Irish-American Celebrities
Rooney Mara
Rooney Mara was born into a notable Irish-American family. One of her great-grandfathers was Tim Mara, who founded the New York Giants; another, Art Rooney, Sr., founded the Pittsburgh Steelers. She had a brief but memorable role in The Social Network in 2010 - her character breaks up with Mark Zuckerberg in the opening scene - then Mara hit is big by landing the juicy role of Lisbeth Salander in the American version of The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo, playing opposite Daniel Craig and receiving an Academy Award nomination. Mara founded Faces of Kibera, a charity that worked to help orphans in a Nairobi slum; the organization later merged with Uweza Foundation, and Mara serves on Uweza's board.
Rooney Mara
Rooney Mara was born into a notable Irish-American family. One of her great-grandfathers was Tim Mara, who founded the New York Giants; another, Art Rooney, Sr., founded the Pittsburgh Steelers. She had a brief but memorable role in The Social Network in 2010 - her character breaks up with Mark Zuckerberg in the opening scene - then Mara hit is big by landing the juicy role of Lisbeth Salander in the American version of The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo, playing opposite Daniel Craig and receiving an Academy Award nomination. Mara founded Faces of Kibera, a charity that worked to help orphans in a Nairobi slum; the organization later merged with Uweza Foundation, and Mara serves on Uweza's board.
Thursday, October 9, 2014
Irish Thought for October 9...
Irish Folklore
Merrows
The merrow (also known as a mermaid, or sea maiden) uses her graceful beauty and irresistible siren song to lure sailors and fisherman to their doom for her amusement. The sight of her, or the sound of her song, ensures a disaster at sea, either by storm or accident. Merrows have been spotted lounging upon sea rocks, and they have been described as having a fish tail and webbing between their fingers. In some accounts, they are naked or described as wearing a foamy white gown. When a fisherman or sailor doesn't return home from the sea, it's said that he "married a merrow."
Merrows
The merrow (also known as a mermaid, or sea maiden) uses her graceful beauty and irresistible siren song to lure sailors and fisherman to their doom for her amusement. The sight of her, or the sound of her song, ensures a disaster at sea, either by storm or accident. Merrows have been spotted lounging upon sea rocks, and they have been described as having a fish tail and webbing between their fingers. In some accounts, they are naked or described as wearing a foamy white gown. When a fisherman or sailor doesn't return home from the sea, it's said that he "married a merrow."
Wednesday, October 8, 2014
Irish Thought for October 8...
Irish Food
Champ or Poundies
Also known as cally or pandy, champ is a dish of mashed potatoes mixed with milk and scallions, formed into a peak with a well of melted butter in the middle. The traditional method of eating champ calls of spooning the mashed potatoes from the outer edge and dipping each bite into the well of butter. The word champ can be defined as "to mash, grind, pound, or crush," which is how champ also got the name poundies.
Champ or Poundies
Also known as cally or pandy, champ is a dish of mashed potatoes mixed with milk and scallions, formed into a peak with a well of melted butter in the middle. The traditional method of eating champ calls of spooning the mashed potatoes from the outer edge and dipping each bite into the well of butter. The word champ can be defined as "to mash, grind, pound, or crush," which is how champ also got the name poundies.
Tuesday, October 7, 2014
Monday, October 6, 2014
Irish Thought for October 6...
Irish Blessings
May your mornings bring joy
And your evenings bring peace...
May your troubles grow less
As your blessings increase.
May your mornings bring joy
And your evenings bring peace...
May your troubles grow less
As your blessings increase.
Sunday, October 5, 2014
Irish Thought for October 5...
Quotations
I guess we thought we had to be crazier than everybody else 'cause we were the Irish guys.
-Mickey Featherstone
I guess we thought we had to be crazier than everybody else 'cause we were the Irish guys.
-Mickey Featherstone
Saturday, October 4, 2014
Irish Thought for October 4...
Irish-American Heroes
Mary Harris "Mother" Jones
The woman who would become a driving force in the American labor movement was an immigrant from County Cork. In the U.S. she worked as a seamstress and started a family, but her husband and four children died in a yellow fever epidemic in 1867 before her home and shop were destroyed in the Great Chicago Fire. Jones, whose social conscience was rooted in her compassion for the poor and afflicted, campaigned for the United Mine Workers Union, confounded the Social Democratic Party, helped establish the Industrial Workers of the World, and fought to abolish child labor. The progressive magazine Mother Jones is named for her.
Mary Harris "Mother" Jones
The woman who would become a driving force in the American labor movement was an immigrant from County Cork. In the U.S. she worked as a seamstress and started a family, but her husband and four children died in a yellow fever epidemic in 1867 before her home and shop were destroyed in the Great Chicago Fire. Jones, whose social conscience was rooted in her compassion for the poor and afflicted, campaigned for the United Mine Workers Union, confounded the Social Democratic Party, helped establish the Industrial Workers of the World, and fought to abolish child labor. The progressive magazine Mother Jones is named for her.
Friday, October 3, 2014
Irish Thought for October 3...
Irish Movies
Widows' Peak
When a newcomer moves into an area populated mainly by widows, her mysterious nature causes much consternation. Starring Joan Plowright, Mia Farrow, and Nathsha Richardson. Directed by John Irvin.
Widows' Peak
When a newcomer moves into an area populated mainly by widows, her mysterious nature causes much consternation. Starring Joan Plowright, Mia Farrow, and Nathsha Richardson. Directed by John Irvin.
Thursday, October 2, 2014
Wednesday, October 1, 2014
Irish Thought for October 1...
Irish Drink
Mead
Possibly first created by Irish monks during the Middle Ages, mead is a honey wine that has been celebrated in Gaelic folklore and poetry. The traditional home brew was simple: honey, water, and usually yeast, with added spices, fruits, or grain mash, depending on local recipes. According to taste variations, the result, after months of fermentation, could be still or sparkling, and sweet, semi-sweet, or dry. Mead has also been purported to act as an aphrodisiac, which explains its plaice in ancient and modern wedding ceremonies as the drink of choice for a toast. The tradition of newlyweds drinking mead for a month after their wedding may be the origin of the word honeymoon.
Mead
Possibly first created by Irish monks during the Middle Ages, mead is a honey wine that has been celebrated in Gaelic folklore and poetry. The traditional home brew was simple: honey, water, and usually yeast, with added spices, fruits, or grain mash, depending on local recipes. According to taste variations, the result, after months of fermentation, could be still or sparkling, and sweet, semi-sweet, or dry. Mead has also been purported to act as an aphrodisiac, which explains its plaice in ancient and modern wedding ceremonies as the drink of choice for a toast. The tradition of newlyweds drinking mead for a month after their wedding may be the origin of the word honeymoon.
Tuesday, September 30, 2014
Irish Thought for September 30...
Irish-American Celebrities
Malachy McCourt
Born in Brooklyn but raised in Ireland, Malachy McCourt - the brother of another notable author, Frank McCourt - is an actor, author, saloon owner, and general bon vivant who has made a career (indeed, several careers) out of his Irish way with words. Along with articles for a number of publications, Malachy is the author of two memoirs, A Monk Swimming and Singing Him My Song, as well as the play A Couple of Blackguards, which he wrote and performed with his brother Frank. He has appeared in a number of movies and television shows, and owned and ran Malacy's, a famous New York City bar on Third Avenue that is sometimes referred to as the singles bar.
According to the dictionary a bon vivant is a person with refined taste, especially one who enjoys superb food and drink. I wonder if Malachy has a theme for enjoying life to be shown as the opposite of his brother. I don't know what Frank McCourt is like in person, but the two novels of his that I have read are soooooooo depressing. Maybe the two brothers balance each other out.
Malachy McCourt
Born in Brooklyn but raised in Ireland, Malachy McCourt - the brother of another notable author, Frank McCourt - is an actor, author, saloon owner, and general bon vivant who has made a career (indeed, several careers) out of his Irish way with words. Along with articles for a number of publications, Malachy is the author of two memoirs, A Monk Swimming and Singing Him My Song, as well as the play A Couple of Blackguards, which he wrote and performed with his brother Frank. He has appeared in a number of movies and television shows, and owned and ran Malacy's, a famous New York City bar on Third Avenue that is sometimes referred to as the singles bar.
According to the dictionary a bon vivant is a person with refined taste, especially one who enjoys superb food and drink. I wonder if Malachy has a theme for enjoying life to be shown as the opposite of his brother. I don't know what Frank McCourt is like in person, but the two novels of his that I have read are soooooooo depressing. Maybe the two brothers balance each other out.
Monday, September 29, 2014
Irish Thought for September 29...
Kansas City Irish Fest News
This is Anna with her official Irish Fest Prize Ribbon. I hope she keeps dedicating herself to art throughout the year!
Sunday, September 28, 2014
Saturday, September 27, 2014
Irish Thought for September 27...
Kansas City Irish Fest News
And our chalkboard art winner is....
And our chalkboard art winner is....
Wilson, who is 6 years old!!!!!!!
Great drawing Wilson.
Friday, September 26, 2014
Irish Thought for September 26...
Irish Blessings
May misfortune follow you all the days of your life...and never catch up!
May misfortune follow you all the days of your life...and never catch up!
Thursday, September 25, 2014
Irish Thought for September 25...
Quotations
When I told the people of Northern Ireland that I was an atheist, a woman in the audience stood up and said, "Yes, but is it the God of the Catholics or the God of the Protestants in whom you don't believe?"
-Quentin Crisp
When I told the people of Northern Ireland that I was an atheist, a woman in the audience stood up and said, "Yes, but is it the God of the Catholics or the God of the Protestants in whom you don't believe?"
-Quentin Crisp
Wednesday, September 24, 2014
Irish Thought for September 24...
Kansas City Irish Fest News
IN THE HISTORY OF COW NAMES..WE HAVE A NEW ONE...
Cows throuigh the Years
Molly McMoo 2005
MooRaLoo RaLooRa 2006
Sinead O'Moolihan and the TraLaLas 2007
Daisy O'Fiddlesticks 2008
Moora O'Mooley 2009
Moolarky 2010
Ceili the Cow 2011
Clare Cliffs of Mooooer 2012
Irish Stout 2013
and the name for this year's cow is..........
Moooorgan Mae 2014
Tuesday, September 23, 2014
Irish Thought for September 23...
Kansas City Irish Fest News
Meet Anna
Anna was the winner of our ArtRageous Tree Art! Here is what I learned about Anna...
Meet Anna
What Anna loves about Irish Fest: She loves the Kid's Club Art and the other kids activities. Anna is 10 years old and she attends 5th grade of elementary school.
Congratulations Anna!!!!
Monday, September 22, 2014
Irish Thought for September 22...
Irish Etymology
"Beyond the Pale": originated in Ireland in the 14th century to describe outlandish behavior. The Pale was the area of Ireland under heavy British control, and people living on its outskirts were considered outlaws.
"Beyond the Pale": originated in Ireland in the 14th century to describe outlandish behavior. The Pale was the area of Ireland under heavy British control, and people living on its outskirts were considered outlaws.
Sunday, September 21, 2014
Irish Thought for September 21...
Irish-American Musicians
Tommy Dorsey
Trombonist Tommy Dorsey was one of America's most bandleaders during the Golden Age of Swing. He started out running an orchestra with his brother Jimmy, but quickly let to start his own band in 1935, The band's albums, tours, and radio shows were all popular, and Dorsey showed a keen ability to keep the act relevant by hiring top arrangers, musicians, and singers. Over the course of his career, Dorsey had well over 250 Billboard hits, including "I'll Never Smile Again," sung by Frank Sinatra, who had his first successes with he Tommy Dorsey band; Sinatra often claimed he learned breath control by watching Tommy's playing.
Tommy Dorsey
Trombonist Tommy Dorsey was one of America's most bandleaders during the Golden Age of Swing. He started out running an orchestra with his brother Jimmy, but quickly let to start his own band in 1935, The band's albums, tours, and radio shows were all popular, and Dorsey showed a keen ability to keep the act relevant by hiring top arrangers, musicians, and singers. Over the course of his career, Dorsey had well over 250 Billboard hits, including "I'll Never Smile Again," sung by Frank Sinatra, who had his first successes with he Tommy Dorsey band; Sinatra often claimed he learned breath control by watching Tommy's playing.
Saturday, September 20, 2014
Irish Thought for September 20...
Irish Proverbs
Your son is your son until he marries, but your daughter is your daughter until you die.
Your son is your son until he marries, but your daughter is your daughter until you die.
Friday, September 19, 2014
Irish Thought for September 19...
Irish Songs
The Wild Rover
I've been a wild rover for many a year
And I spent all my money on whiskey and beer,
And now I'm returning with gold in great store
And I never will play the wild rover no more.
And it's no, nay, never,
No nay never no more,
Will I play the wild rover
No never no more.
The Wild RoverI've been a wild rover for many a year
And I spent all my money on whiskey and beer,
And now I'm returning with gold in great store
And I never will play the wild rover no more.
And it's no, nay, never,
No nay never no more,
Will I play the wild rover
No never no more.
Thursday, September 18, 2014
Irish Thought for September 18...
Irish-American Celebrities
Rosalind Russell
A supremely talented actress, Rosalind Russell is probably best known for fast-talking, strong-willed characters such as Hildy Johnson in His Girl Friday, Mame Dennis in Auntie Mame, and Sylvia Folwer in The Women. She was born into an Irish-Catholic family in the predominantly Irish-Catholic city of Waterbury, Connecticut, and made her way to Los Angeles in the 1930s, determined to become a movie star. Along with her film successes, Russell was a hit on stage, winning a Tony Award for her performance in Wonderful Town in 1953, and starring in the stage version of Auntie Mame - without a doubt her most famous role.
Rosalind Russell
A supremely talented actress, Rosalind Russell is probably best known for fast-talking, strong-willed characters such as Hildy Johnson in His Girl Friday, Mame Dennis in Auntie Mame, and Sylvia Folwer in The Women. She was born into an Irish-Catholic family in the predominantly Irish-Catholic city of Waterbury, Connecticut, and made her way to Los Angeles in the 1930s, determined to become a movie star. Along with her film successes, Russell was a hit on stage, winning a Tony Award for her performance in Wonderful Town in 1953, and starring in the stage version of Auntie Mame - without a doubt her most famous role.
Wednesday, September 17, 2014
Tuesday, September 16, 2014
Irish Thought for September 16...
Irish-American Writers
Anna Quindlen
Anna Quindlen won a Pulitzer Prize for Commentary in 1992 for her work for The New York Times. She was born in Philadelphia to an Irish-American father and an Italian-American mother, and she began her journalism career in 1974 at the New York Post. From 1977 to 1994 she held various posts at the Times (including penning the Pulitzer-winning column "Public and Private"), then focused on writing novels, including One True Thing, which was made into a movie starring Meryl Streep. From 2002 to 2009, she wrote the "Last Word" column for Newsweek magazine.
Anna Quindlen
Anna Quindlen won a Pulitzer Prize for Commentary in 1992 for her work for The New York Times. She was born in Philadelphia to an Irish-American father and an Italian-American mother, and she began her journalism career in 1974 at the New York Post. From 1977 to 1994 she held various posts at the Times (including penning the Pulitzer-winning column "Public and Private"), then focused on writing novels, including One True Thing, which was made into a movie starring Meryl Streep. From 2002 to 2009, she wrote the "Last Word" column for Newsweek magazine.
Monday, September 15, 2014
Irish Thought for September 15...
Irish Blessings
May you have the hindsight to know where you've been,
The foresight to know where you're going,
And the insight to know when you have gone too far.
May you have the hindsight to know where you've been,
The foresight to know where you're going,
And the insight to know when you have gone too far.
Sunday, September 14, 2014
Irish Thought for September 14...
Irish-American Heroes
Dublin-born Richard Montgomery is believed to be the first American general killed in the American Revolution. While he fought for the British in the French and Indian War, Montgomery became a Brigadier General of the Continental Army for the Americans and was killed at the Battle of Quebec in 1775,
Dublin-born Richard Montgomery is believed to be the first American general killed in the American Revolution. While he fought for the British in the French and Indian War, Montgomery became a Brigadier General of the Continental Army for the Americans and was killed at the Battle of Quebec in 1775,
Saturday, September 13, 2014
Irish Thought for September 13...
Quotations
If this humor be the safety of our race, then it due largely to the infusion into the American people of the Irish brain.
-William Howard Taft
If this humor be the safety of our race, then it due largely to the infusion into the American people of the Irish brain.
-William Howard Taft
Friday, September 12, 2014
Irish Thought for September 12...
Kansas City Irish Fest News
Some Theatre of the Imagination pics from the weekend...every time I saw the kids from the audience get on the stage and perform, I saw those kids having a great time!!!
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Some Theatre of the Imagination pics from the weekend...every time I saw the kids from the audience get on the stage and perform, I saw those kids having a great time!!!
Thursday, September 11, 2014
Irish Thought for September 11...
Irish-American By The Numbers
The potato famine that struck Ireland in the mid-19th century - called An Gorta Mór ("The Great Hunger") - was a devastating blight that wiped out the entire potato harvest. One-third of Ireland's people depended on the potato as their primary sustenance, and more than one million people died. (It's now believed that many lives could have been saved had the English government responded more humanely (or at all humanely, if you ask me), since there were other crops and sources of food that could have been directed to the afflicted). For America, the Great Potato Famine led to to a save of immigration that marked the beginning of the Irish-American experience - more than one million Irish came to the United States between 1845 and 1855.
The potato famine that struck Ireland in the mid-19th century - called An Gorta Mór ("The Great Hunger") - was a devastating blight that wiped out the entire potato harvest. One-third of Ireland's people depended on the potato as their primary sustenance, and more than one million people died. (It's now believed that many lives could have been saved had the English government responded more humanely (or at all humanely, if you ask me), since there were other crops and sources of food that could have been directed to the afflicted). For America, the Great Potato Famine led to to a save of immigration that marked the beginning of the Irish-American experience - more than one million Irish came to the United States between 1845 and 1855.
Wednesday, September 10, 2014
Irish Thought for September 10...
Irish Food
Bangers
Another word for sausages, bangers are an Irish favorite in both pubs and homes. The name is rumored to date to World War II when pork was rationed, and so resourceful sausage makers supplemented their supply by adding breadcrumbs and extra water to the traditional sausage mixture. Because of the additional water, the sausages had tendency to explode with a loud "Bang!" when cooked. Now the name bangers has been expanded to include all Irish sausages, including those made with beef. Bangers are often served with mashed potatoes, creating the ultimate Irish comfort food combination, bangers and mash.
Bangers
Another word for sausages, bangers are an Irish favorite in both pubs and homes. The name is rumored to date to World War II when pork was rationed, and so resourceful sausage makers supplemented their supply by adding breadcrumbs and extra water to the traditional sausage mixture. Because of the additional water, the sausages had tendency to explode with a loud "Bang!" when cooked. Now the name bangers has been expanded to include all Irish sausages, including those made with beef. Bangers are often served with mashed potatoes, creating the ultimate Irish comfort food combination, bangers and mash.
Tuesday, September 9, 2014
Irish Thought for September 9...
Gaelic Sports
Handball
Very similar to American handball, Gaelic handball is a game where two players (singles) or four players (doubles) use their gloved hands to return a small rubber ball against a wall, with scoring similar to volleyball. Either the left or right hand can be used to hit the ball.
Handball
Very similar to American handball, Gaelic handball is a game where two players (singles) or four players (doubles) use their gloved hands to return a small rubber ball against a wall, with scoring similar to volleyball. Either the left or right hand can be used to hit the ball.
Monday, September 8, 2014
Sunday, September 7, 2014
Irish Thought for September 7...
Irish-American Facts
The St. Patrick's Day Parade in New York City is the largest parade in the world, with hundred of thousands of marchers and millions of spectators along its one-and-a-half-mile route. The parade started in 1762, and it was the first civilian parade in the world. For over 150 years it has been led by the 69th Infantry Regiment of New York - the "Fighting Sixty-Ninth" - a regiment with an Irish heritage and a history dating back to the American Revolution.
The St. Patrick's Day Parade in New York City is the largest parade in the world, with hundred of thousands of marchers and millions of spectators along its one-and-a-half-mile route. The parade started in 1762, and it was the first civilian parade in the world. For over 150 years it has been led by the 69th Infantry Regiment of New York - the "Fighting Sixty-Ninth" - a regiment with an Irish heritage and a history dating back to the American Revolution.
Saturday, September 6, 2014
Irish Thought for September 6...
Irish Trivia
After a long period of inclement weather, a lone sunny day that suddenly arrives in Ireland is sometimes known as a "pet day."
After a long period of inclement weather, a lone sunny day that suddenly arrives in Ireland is sometimes known as a "pet day."
Friday, September 5, 2014
Irish Thought for September 5...
Kansas City Irish Fest News
Meet Mikayla, Kenealy, Jake, and Alex. These talented, enthusiastic young adults were responsible this weekend for the Children's Area of Washington Park. They kept our Irish Fest young guests safe and hopping with fun.
I am so proud of each of them individually and as a team. They went beyond my expectations for making sure that everyone in the Park was having a great time and safe. They dealt with Heat, a KC monsoon and a KC Hurricane, and still came through smiling.
Meet Mikayla, Kenealy, Jake, and Alex. These talented, enthusiastic young adults were responsible this weekend for the Children's Area of Washington Park. They kept our Irish Fest young guests safe and hopping with fun.
I am so proud of each of them individually and as a team. They went beyond my expectations for making sure that everyone in the Park was having a great time and safe. They dealt with Heat, a KC monsoon and a KC Hurricane, and still came through smiling.
Thursday, September 4, 2014
Irish Thought for September 4...
Kansas City Irish Fest Fun
This is Josephine, she won the Costume Contest on Friday. She is 7 yrs old. She fit perfectly into our Irish Woodlands theme!
This is Josephine, she won the Costume Contest on Friday. She is 7 yrs old. She fit perfectly into our Irish Woodlands theme!
Wednesday, September 3, 2014
Irish Thought for September 3...
Kansas City Irish Fest Fun
I got a hold of one of the examples of beautiful tree art that was created in our ArtRageous tent this year. This picture has been put on Facebook to enter our contest for the most likes. Go take a look!
I got a hold of one of the examples of beautiful tree art that was created in our ArtRageous tent this year. This picture has been put on Facebook to enter our contest for the most likes. Go take a look!
Tuesday, September 2, 2014
Irish Thought for September 2...
Irish Blessings
May you always have a clean shirt, a clear conscience, and enough coins in your pocket to buy a pint.
May you always have a clean shirt, a clear conscience, and enough coins in your pocket to buy a pint.
Monday, September 1, 2014
Sunday, August 31, 2014
Irish Thought for August 31...
Irish Musicians
Tommy Peoples
Born in 1948, the Irish fiddler Tommy Peoples has been a member of popular traditional Irish music groups, including 1691 and the Both Band, as well as a solo performer in the Donegal fiddle style, of which he is a virtuoso. He's currently the Traditional Musician In Residence at the Balor Arts Centre.
Tommy Peoples
Born in 1948, the Irish fiddler Tommy Peoples has been a member of popular traditional Irish music groups, including 1691 and the Both Band, as well as a solo performer in the Donegal fiddle style, of which he is a virtuoso. He's currently the Traditional Musician In Residence at the Balor Arts Centre.
Saturday, August 30, 2014
Irish Thought for August 30...
Quotations
Why should Ireland be treated as a geographical fragment of England...Ireland is not a geographical fragment, but a nation.
- Charles Stewart Parnell
Why should Ireland be treated as a geographical fragment of England...Ireland is not a geographical fragment, but a nation.
- Charles Stewart Parnell
Friday, August 29, 2014
Irish Thought for August 29...
Irish Blessings
May the lilt of Irish laughter
Lighten every load.
May the mist of Irish magic
Shorten every road.
And may all your friends remember
All the favors you are owed.
May the lilt of Irish laughter
Lighten every load.
May the mist of Irish magic
Shorten every road.
And may all your friends remember
All the favors you are owed.
Thursday, August 28, 2014
Irish Thought for August 28...
Irish Movies
The Dead
Based on the great short story by James Joyce from his collection Dubliners, The Dead tells the delicate story of a husband and wife going to dinner at the home of the husband's spinster aunts; the secrets revealed that night shake their relationship. Starring Anjelica Huston, Donal McCann, and Dan O'Herlihy. Directed by John Huston.
The Dead
Based on the great short story by James Joyce from his collection Dubliners, The Dead tells the delicate story of a husband and wife going to dinner at the home of the husband's spinster aunts; the secrets revealed that night shake their relationship. Starring Anjelica Huston, Donal McCann, and Dan O'Herlihy. Directed by John Huston.
Wednesday, August 27, 2014
Irish Thought for August 27...
Irish Symbols
Claddagh
The claddagh, created with two small hands holding a crowned heart, is inspired by the warm, romantic spirit of the Irish people, and became a symbol of purity and loyalty in the royal courts. In modern times it has come to signify undying devotion and faithfulness, and rigs featuring the design are popular gifts for lovers to buy each other.
Claddagh
The claddagh, created with two small hands holding a crowned heart, is inspired by the warm, romantic spirit of the Irish people, and became a symbol of purity and loyalty in the royal courts. In modern times it has come to signify undying devotion and faithfulness, and rigs featuring the design are popular gifts for lovers to buy each other.
Tuesday, August 26, 2014
Irish Thought for August 26...
Irish Proverbs
What butter or whiskey won't cure, there is no cure for.
What butter or whiskey won't cure, there is no cure for.
Monday, August 25, 2014
Irish Thought for August 25...
Kansas City Irish Fest News
Meet an artist...
HERYL NANCE-DURST
– Henna Art, Face Painting, Glitter Tattoos
Sheryl has always loved anything that decorates people – henna, face paint, jewelry, costumes, you name it. She started practicing henna In 2001 and then added face painting and glitter tattoos to her repertoire. She has trained with nationally and internationally-known face painters and is one of KC’s top henna artists.
Meet an artist...
HERYL NANCE-DURST
– Henna Art, Face Painting, Glitter Tattoos
Sheryl has always loved anything that decorates people – henna, face paint, jewelry, costumes, you name it. She started practicing henna In 2001 and then added face painting and glitter tattoos to her repertoire. She has trained with nationally and internationally-known face painters and is one of KC’s top henna artists.
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| This face painting would be perfect for this year's Irish Woodlands theme! |
Sunday, August 24, 2014
Irish Thought for August 24...
Kansas City Irish Fest News
Here are hints of what we will get on stage when StoneLion Puppets are performing...
Shamrock Shenanigans
Travel to the mystical isle of Ireland in this Celtic cabaret marionette and rod puppet show. Dance a jig with leprechauns as dragons fly over head in the audience. Fairies, mermaids, selkies, and shamrocks with traditional and contemporary music will have your toes tapping and your face smiling.
Here are hints of what we will get on stage when StoneLion Puppets are performing...
Shamrock Shenanigans
Travel to the mystical isle of Ireland in this Celtic cabaret marionette and rod puppet show. Dance a jig with leprechauns as dragons fly over head in the audience. Fairies, mermaids, selkies, and shamrocks with traditional and contemporary music will have your toes tapping and your face smiling.
Saturday, August 23, 2014
Irish Thought for August 23...
Kansas City Irish Fest News
Who love you the most??? The Kid’s Club… we heard your need and this year we are delivering.
For the first time we have a combo wristband for each day that provides Face Painting and all day Bouncy!!!!!!!!!!!!
And yes, you can get this deeply discounted if you remind Mom and Dad to go online and buy the tickets before the Fest!
Buy them now, you will love them at the Fest and so will Mom and Dad because of the Savings!
Friday, August 22, 2014
Irish Thought for August 22...
Kansas City Irish Fest News
Irish Stout continues his adventures and goes to find the new poor Nameless Cow. He tells the Cow to join him so that she will learn all of the Secrets to the Children’s Area.
They take off and find Colleen, Maeve, Erin, Kelsey, Maureen, Molly and Brendan. Wow, why so many? These kids are the Kid’s Club Members who perform Irish Dancing. And yes, they will be performing this year on the Children’s stage and on others including at the Feis.
Irish Stout says, “What would you tell the kids about this year?” They group all starts talking at once as they all have the same thought. The
Craft area this year is what they are excited about. We have gone green they all are saying. We have collected thousands of TP Rolls to make trees. We are celebrating Irish Forests and celebrating that the Forests are being worked on to add to their current glory. Maureen wants to make a couple of additions here, “And we have both Yvonne Healy who will be telling Ghost Stories on the last show on Saturday night, and Barry Fitzgerald who has some haunting information on the forests of Ireland coming on Sunday afternoon.”
Kelsey interjects here, “ Yvonne Healy is going to tell great stories each day in our area, just not scary ones until Saturday.” Colleen says,” Miss Yvonne is one of the most fun entertainers we have had in the Children’s Area.”
Megan and Michael run in at that moment and say, “Don’t forget Barry Fitzgerald, every year he always delights and entrances.”
About this time, Colleen, Maeve, Erin, Kelsey, Maureen, Molly and Brendan start smiling and tapping their toes.
Irish Stout walks away with the cow saying to the group of young people, “Look at you all there, happy out leaping about the place. Good luck at the Feis! We will be there watching.”
Irish Stout continues his adventures and goes to find the new poor Nameless Cow. He tells the Cow to join him so that she will learn all of the Secrets to the Children’s Area.
They take off and find Colleen, Maeve, Erin, Kelsey, Maureen, Molly and Brendan. Wow, why so many? These kids are the Kid’s Club Members who perform Irish Dancing. And yes, they will be performing this year on the Children’s stage and on others including at the Feis.
Irish Stout says, “What would you tell the kids about this year?” They group all starts talking at once as they all have the same thought. The
Craft area this year is what they are excited about. We have gone green they all are saying. We have collected thousands of TP Rolls to make trees. We are celebrating Irish Forests and celebrating that the Forests are being worked on to add to their current glory. Maureen wants to make a couple of additions here, “And we have both Yvonne Healy who will be telling Ghost Stories on the last show on Saturday night, and Barry Fitzgerald who has some haunting information on the forests of Ireland coming on Sunday afternoon.”
Kelsey interjects here, “ Yvonne Healy is going to tell great stories each day in our area, just not scary ones until Saturday.” Colleen says,” Miss Yvonne is one of the most fun entertainers we have had in the Children’s Area.”
Megan and Michael run in at that moment and say, “Don’t forget Barry Fitzgerald, every year he always delights and entrances.”
About this time, Colleen, Maeve, Erin, Kelsey, Maureen, Molly and Brendan start smiling and tapping their toes.
Irish Stout walks away with the cow saying to the group of young people, “Look at you all there, happy out leaping about the place. Good luck at the Feis! We will be there watching.”
Thursday, August 21, 2014
Irish Thought for August 21...
Quotations
Being Irish, he had an abiding sense of tragedy, which sustained him through temporary periods of joy.
-William Butler Yeats
Being Irish, he had an abiding sense of tragedy, which sustained him through temporary periods of joy.
-William Butler Yeats
Wednesday, August 20, 2014
Irish Thought for August 20...
Kansas City Irish Fest News
New Tattoos!!!!
I got a hold of three new pictures for temporary tattoos that will be available to children (free!) at KCIF. In addition the pictures shown here, we have many other tattoos leftover from years past, and some that we like so much we keep ordering more!
New Tattoos!!!!
I got a hold of three new pictures for temporary tattoos that will be available to children (free!) at KCIF. In addition the pictures shown here, we have many other tattoos leftover from years past, and some that we like so much we keep ordering more!
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Fir Bolg pronounced fir bullug - a people who lived in Ireland for a time - sorry the picture didn't translate to well :(
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Clurichaun pronounced clurrickawn (an Irish fairy that looks like a leprechaun)
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| This year's yet-to-be-named-cow |
Tuesday, August 19, 2014
Irish Thought for August 19...
Kansas City Irish Fest
The Adventures of Irish Stout
So Irish Stout (last year's cow) walks into area schools looking for a Member of the Kid's Club. Low and behold he finds Brendan.
Stout says, "What does all your guests in the Children's Area need to know this year?"
Brendan smiles and says, "They need to have so much fun!"
Stout, "Yes, that's true but what advice do we give them?"
About that time Kate walks up and says, "Well the parents need to go online NOW and buy combo wristbands for Face Painting and for the Bouncies, because they will save so much money and since all Irish Fest Kids come in free, it is the best deal to do everything the kid's area has!"
Stout, "Okay, thanks for that piece of advice, I am off to find more of the Kid's Club."
So watch out for more in the adventures of Irish Stout, he is not a beer, but the 2013 cow!
The Adventures of Irish Stout
So Irish Stout (last year's cow) walks into area schools looking for a Member of the Kid's Club. Low and behold he finds Brendan.
Stout says, "What does all your guests in the Children's Area need to know this year?"
Brendan smiles and says, "They need to have so much fun!"
Stout, "Yes, that's true but what advice do we give them?"
About that time Kate walks up and says, "Well the parents need to go online NOW and buy combo wristbands for Face Painting and for the Bouncies, because they will save so much money and since all Irish Fest Kids come in free, it is the best deal to do everything the kid's area has!"
Stout, "Okay, thanks for that piece of advice, I am off to find more of the Kid's Club."
So watch out for more in the adventures of Irish Stout, he is not a beer, but the 2013 cow!
Monday, August 18, 2014
Irish Thought for August 18...
Irish Food
Barmbrack
Generally served toasted with butter as part of an afternoon tea this leavened, flattened round bread in not quite as sweet as cake but has sultanas and raisins to add flavor and texture. As an Irish Halloween custom, barmbrack is baked with various small tokens embedded inside, and each charm found foretells the future for the finder. The name barmbrack comes from the Gaelic bairÃn breac, a combination of the word bairÃn, meaning "loaf" and breac, which means "speckled" referring to the raisins in the bread.
Barmbrack
Generally served toasted with butter as part of an afternoon tea this leavened, flattened round bread in not quite as sweet as cake but has sultanas and raisins to add flavor and texture. As an Irish Halloween custom, barmbrack is baked with various small tokens embedded inside, and each charm found foretells the future for the finder. The name barmbrack comes from the Gaelic bairÃn breac, a combination of the word bairÃn, meaning "loaf" and breac, which means "speckled" referring to the raisins in the bread.
Sunday, August 17, 2014
Irish Thought for August 17...
Kansas City Irish Fest News
For all those attending Irish Fest...
Today, I am happy to announce that we are adding a way to receive a prize this year...with our first Facebook contest! We will have winners for three different pictures. The categories are 1. Best Face Painting Group Picture, 2. Best Tree Craft, and 3. Best Chalk Art Picture. For the face painting, all you need to is get your face painted and then take a picture with your friends or family. The tree craft is what you will be making in the Artrageous Area on the Terrace in order to add your flair to the theme of Irish Woodlands. Finally, the chalk art is part of the Kids' Area in the Park in which chalkboards will be set up for kids to draw a picture of anything, although I might suggest it represent something fun you saw or did at Irish Fest. I might add that although you do have to pay to get your face painted, you do not have to pay to chalk draw or make a tree craft. Those two activities are part of the Kids' Area that want you to express your creative side. After you take the pictures, post them on the Kansas City Irish Fest page on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/KansasCityIrishFest and the pictures with the most likes will win a gift card. Please add the picture and underneath type in which of the three categories your picture is to be entered. Then let the voting commence!
Even if you don't take pictures or participate in any of these activities, you can still go to Facebook and like pictures from the three categories to help someone win. You will have until the Friday after Irish Fest ends to vote or encourage your friends to vote for you.
Good luck all. I am so excited to see pictures of everyone having fun out there!!!!
For all those attending Irish Fest...
Today, I am happy to announce that we are adding a way to receive a prize this year...with our first Facebook contest! We will have winners for three different pictures. The categories are 1. Best Face Painting Group Picture, 2. Best Tree Craft, and 3. Best Chalk Art Picture. For the face painting, all you need to is get your face painted and then take a picture with your friends or family. The tree craft is what you will be making in the Artrageous Area on the Terrace in order to add your flair to the theme of Irish Woodlands. Finally, the chalk art is part of the Kids' Area in the Park in which chalkboards will be set up for kids to draw a picture of anything, although I might suggest it represent something fun you saw or did at Irish Fest. I might add that although you do have to pay to get your face painted, you do not have to pay to chalk draw or make a tree craft. Those two activities are part of the Kids' Area that want you to express your creative side. After you take the pictures, post them on the Kansas City Irish Fest page on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/KansasCityIrishFest and the pictures with the most likes will win a gift card. Please add the picture and underneath type in which of the three categories your picture is to be entered. Then let the voting commence!
Even if you don't take pictures or participate in any of these activities, you can still go to Facebook and like pictures from the three categories to help someone win. You will have until the Friday after Irish Fest ends to vote or encourage your friends to vote for you.
Good luck all. I am so excited to see pictures of everyone having fun out there!!!!
Saturday, August 16, 2014
Irish Thought for August 16...
Kansas City Irish Fest News
As many of you know, the night before Irish Fest starts is my retirement day. I have had a great year sharing tidbits of information about Ireland and tidbits about Irish Fest, but I am getting ready to hand over the torch (don't worry - I will keep on keeping on until the very last day!). I'd like to introduce you to this year's KCIF cow!!!
However, as many of you know, she does not have a name. We look to all of you kids out there to help us on that account. I have gotten a picture of my new friend and need you to start putting your thinking caps on. Names are important. I am convinced that it was because I was named Irish Stout a year ago that the Irish Stout Guinness joined the offerings at Irish Fest (but, even if I don't drink, I will miss Boulevard's Stout). I think my name made magic happen!!!!
In the Children's Area , there will be a box, decorated like an Irish cow of course, near which you will also find pens and entry cards. I need your name, age, email, mailing address, and phone number on those cards along with your idea for a name. That way we can contact you if your name is chosen and we are able to mail the prize (a big cow) to you. This is a very important task because my friend in the picture looks like she is bursting with pride and being named soon!!!!
As many of you know, the night before Irish Fest starts is my retirement day. I have had a great year sharing tidbits of information about Ireland and tidbits about Irish Fest, but I am getting ready to hand over the torch (don't worry - I will keep on keeping on until the very last day!). I'd like to introduce you to this year's KCIF cow!!!
However, as many of you know, she does not have a name. We look to all of you kids out there to help us on that account. I have gotten a picture of my new friend and need you to start putting your thinking caps on. Names are important. I am convinced that it was because I was named Irish Stout a year ago that the Irish Stout Guinness joined the offerings at Irish Fest (but, even if I don't drink, I will miss Boulevard's Stout). I think my name made magic happen!!!!
In the Children's Area , there will be a box, decorated like an Irish cow of course, near which you will also find pens and entry cards. I need your name, age, email, mailing address, and phone number on those cards along with your idea for a name. That way we can contact you if your name is chosen and we are able to mail the prize (a big cow) to you. This is a very important task because my friend in the picture looks like she is bursting with pride and being named soon!!!!
Friday, August 15, 2014
Irish Thought for August 15...
Kansas City Irish Fest News
Who makes Irish Fest Rock every single year for the guests ages 1 to 19? It is the KCIF KID’S Club.
They are dedicated, bright, ambitious (have you see their tees?), and mostly just plain Fun! Every year right after Irish Fest this team decides what worked, what didn't, what needs improving, what needs expanding and what new things to add.
They work for months prior to Irish Fest, and then are there for most every minute of the best kid’s party of the year over Labor Day Weekend at KCIF. Some of them perform, but all of them are there to finish the year long plan to make this weekend a memorable one.
With that, we introduce the Irish Fest Kid’s Club! And their thoughts about why Irish Fest Rocks!
Brendan - You will know him because of his smile that melts your heart. Brendan is one of our younger members, and also one of our organized members. He is one I would ask what he is bringing, I have a feeling he would be ready to party. Meet Brendan in the Children’s Village, he is an expert at KCIF Bingo.
Here is what Brendan told me about Irish Fest.
"I like Irish Fest because of the kid’s area. I like the bounce houses and all the fun stuff there is! I like that all the kids can have fun at Irish Fest. I like all the food too!"
Brendan said rightfully that he has been at Irish Fest since day 1, he has been a member of the Kid’s Club for three years. His first Bingo was 3 years ago. Brendan is a Irish Dancer participating in his second Feis.
Patrick – He is a hard worker and takes his job at Irish Fest seriously. You will know him as the young man with a purpose. He is quiet, but when he speaks, it is with conviction, and his ideas are always fun. Patrick is a team player and will always help with the ‘yucky’ jobs like cleaning table last year in the rain blowing up balloons. Patrick may be anywhere in the Village, he helped a lot with the KCIF Children’s treasures to take home, and we spent significant time last year blowing up helium balloons together.
Patrick’s words of wisdom:
"I like Irish Fest because there is lots of fun stuff to do like the bounce houses and bungee jump. There is also lots of delicious foods to eat. I like to volunteer and help plan the kid’s area. It is really fun to hang out at Irish Fest!"
Colleen – I have had the pleasure of watching this young woman grow up in the Kid’s Club. Colleen was always ready to help, and very often would say yes when she should not in her sheer determination to help.
Colleen is an Irish Dancer, and has blossomed in that career as well. She dances at Irish Fest and does the Feis before and during the Fest, thus her ready to volunteer when she needs to be resting. Above all, Colleen is fun, you should see her Step Dance off a diving board; she has been working on that routine for years! Colleen has been with the Kid’s Club long enough that she could give some history of the growth of the area. When Colleen is not on stage, you will find her doing anything from handing out balloons to giving instructions on what absolutely needs to be done to have a wonderful Irish Fest Day!
Colleen is one of the Grand Dames of the Kid’s Club as this year she heads to High School and in Colleen’s words:.
"I love the music and how it is cultural and good to listen to. There is really good food. I also really enjoy performing Irish Dance every year at the festival and helping to volunteer. It is a great way to celebrate our culture and it makes me proud to be Irish!"
Yes, Colleen, Patrick and Brendan are related, look for these smiles at Irish Fest.
Who makes Irish Fest Rock every single year for the guests ages 1 to 19? It is the KCIF KID’S Club.
They are dedicated, bright, ambitious (have you see their tees?), and mostly just plain Fun! Every year right after Irish Fest this team decides what worked, what didn't, what needs improving, what needs expanding and what new things to add.
They work for months prior to Irish Fest, and then are there for most every minute of the best kid’s party of the year over Labor Day Weekend at KCIF. Some of them perform, but all of them are there to finish the year long plan to make this weekend a memorable one.
With that, we introduce the Irish Fest Kid’s Club! And their thoughts about why Irish Fest Rocks!
Brendan - You will know him because of his smile that melts your heart. Brendan is one of our younger members, and also one of our organized members. He is one I would ask what he is bringing, I have a feeling he would be ready to party. Meet Brendan in the Children’s Village, he is an expert at KCIF Bingo.
Here is what Brendan told me about Irish Fest.
"I like Irish Fest because of the kid’s area. I like the bounce houses and all the fun stuff there is! I like that all the kids can have fun at Irish Fest. I like all the food too!"
Brendan said rightfully that he has been at Irish Fest since day 1, he has been a member of the Kid’s Club for three years. His first Bingo was 3 years ago. Brendan is a Irish Dancer participating in his second Feis.
Patrick – He is a hard worker and takes his job at Irish Fest seriously. You will know him as the young man with a purpose. He is quiet, but when he speaks, it is with conviction, and his ideas are always fun. Patrick is a team player and will always help with the ‘yucky’ jobs like cleaning table last year in the rain blowing up balloons. Patrick may be anywhere in the Village, he helped a lot with the KCIF Children’s treasures to take home, and we spent significant time last year blowing up helium balloons together.
Patrick’s words of wisdom:
"I like Irish Fest because there is lots of fun stuff to do like the bounce houses and bungee jump. There is also lots of delicious foods to eat. I like to volunteer and help plan the kid’s area. It is really fun to hang out at Irish Fest!"
Colleen – I have had the pleasure of watching this young woman grow up in the Kid’s Club. Colleen was always ready to help, and very often would say yes when she should not in her sheer determination to help.
Colleen is an Irish Dancer, and has blossomed in that career as well. She dances at Irish Fest and does the Feis before and during the Fest, thus her ready to volunteer when she needs to be resting. Above all, Colleen is fun, you should see her Step Dance off a diving board; she has been working on that routine for years! Colleen has been with the Kid’s Club long enough that she could give some history of the growth of the area. When Colleen is not on stage, you will find her doing anything from handing out balloons to giving instructions on what absolutely needs to be done to have a wonderful Irish Fest Day!
Colleen is one of the Grand Dames of the Kid’s Club as this year she heads to High School and in Colleen’s words:.
"I love the music and how it is cultural and good to listen to. There is really good food. I also really enjoy performing Irish Dance every year at the festival and helping to volunteer. It is a great way to celebrate our culture and it makes me proud to be Irish!"
Yes, Colleen, Patrick and Brendan are related, look for these smiles at Irish Fest.
Thursday, August 14, 2014
Irish thought for August 14...
Kansas City Irish Fest News
I just wanted to share this picture from our KCIF Kids' Club meeting on Sunday and write about what great workers they all are. They work year round, from the beginning stages of the theme for the Kids' Area to the final weeks when they work on making sure everything is in order for the big weekend. After discussing the layout of the Kids' Area, they got to work on jobs like pricing new fun things available at the merchandise tent to going through every marker to make sure it hadn't run out of ink - and tossing the ones that were dead. This group is that dedicated to ensuring that all kids have the best time possible at KCIF; they want an activity as simple as coloring to be in perfect order. Every year they share with the group ideas or concerns they have with me to help make the Kids' Area as safe, fun, and as problem-free as possible. I love that kids are representing kids.
Now that we are on our 13th KCIF, some of the Kids' Club have grown up and moved on to other areas of KCIF, but they still are happy to be a part of the event as long as college has not moved them too far away. That reason is why the Club members have t-shirts with "Future Board Member" displayed on them proudly.
This group, and every previous member, do an amazing job getting things ready for Labor Day weekend. I thank you all and look forward to more kids joining the group in the future!
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| Many of the KCIF Kids' Club |
Now that we are on our 13th KCIF, some of the Kids' Club have grown up and moved on to other areas of KCIF, but they still are happy to be a part of the event as long as college has not moved them too far away. That reason is why the Club members have t-shirts with "Future Board Member" displayed on them proudly.
This group, and every previous member, do an amazing job getting things ready for Labor Day weekend. I thank you all and look forward to more kids joining the group in the future!
Wednesday, August 13, 2014
Irish Thought for August 13...
Irish Blessings
May you have warm words on a cold evening, a full moon on a dark night, and the road downhill all the way to your door.
May you have warm words on a cold evening, a full moon on a dark night, and the road downhill all the way to your door.
Tuesday, August 12, 2014
Irish Thought for August 12...
Irish Proverbs
A trout in the pot is better than a salmon in the sea.
A trout in the pot is better than a salmon in the sea.
Monday, August 11, 2014
Irish Thought for August 11...
Kansas City Irish Fest News!
I've got the Kids' Stage Schedule! I am excited!!!!!!
I've got the Kids' Stage Schedule! I am excited!!!!!!
Sunday, August 10, 2014
Irish Thought for August 10...
Irish Folklore
Blarney Stone
A block of bluestone known as the Blarney Stone, reputed to have magical powers, is set in a tower battlement of Blarney Castle in County Cork. The stone was placed in 1446, but its legends have been traced back centuries before that, even to biblical tales of Moses or King David, or to local stories of a king saving an old woman who told him about the stone's powers. Kissing the Blarney Stone supposedly bequeaths someone with the gift of gab, which has been variously described as eloquence, skill at flattery, or the ability to delude people without insulting them. Blarney Castle is a popular tourist site, attracting more than 300,000 people annually from all over the world who come to tour the castle and kiss the Blarney Stone.
Blarney Stone
A block of bluestone known as the Blarney Stone, reputed to have magical powers, is set in a tower battlement of Blarney Castle in County Cork. The stone was placed in 1446, but its legends have been traced back centuries before that, even to biblical tales of Moses or King David, or to local stories of a king saving an old woman who told him about the stone's powers. Kissing the Blarney Stone supposedly bequeaths someone with the gift of gab, which has been variously described as eloquence, skill at flattery, or the ability to delude people without insulting them. Blarney Castle is a popular tourist site, attracting more than 300,000 people annually from all over the world who come to tour the castle and kiss the Blarney Stone.
Saturday, August 9, 2014
Irish Thought for August 9...
Irish Musicians
The Pogues
An Irish and English politically aware rock band formed in 1982, the Pogues have focused on creating traditional Irish music with punk rock and folk influences. Over the years, the band has been fronted by Shane MacGowan, Spider Stacey, and the late Joe Sturmmer. The Pogues are known for using traditional Irish instruments, including the accordion, mandolin, cittern, and tin whistle.
The Pogues
An Irish and English politically aware rock band formed in 1982, the Pogues have focused on creating traditional Irish music with punk rock and folk influences. Over the years, the band has been fronted by Shane MacGowan, Spider Stacey, and the late Joe Sturmmer. The Pogues are known for using traditional Irish instruments, including the accordion, mandolin, cittern, and tin whistle.
Friday, August 8, 2014
Irish Thought for August 8...
Quotations
I don't think there's any point in being Irish if you don't know that the world is going to break your heart eventually. I guess that we thought we had a little more time.
-Daniel Patrick Moynihan, after the assassination of President John Fitzgerald Kennedy
I don't think there's any point in being Irish if you don't know that the world is going to break your heart eventually. I guess that we thought we had a little more time.
-Daniel Patrick Moynihan, after the assassination of President John Fitzgerald Kennedy
Thursday, August 7, 2014
Wednesday, August 6, 2014
Irish Thought for August 6...
Irish-American Movies
The Fighter
In the mid-1980s, boxer "Irish" Micky Ward (Mark Wahlberg) trains to become a professional with the help of his girlfiend (Amy Adams) and his difficult brother (Christian Bale). Christian Bale won the Academy Award for Best Performance by an Actor, and Melissa Leo, playing Ward's mother, won the Oscar for Best Performance by an Actress in a Supporting Role. Directed by David O. Russell.
The Fighter
In the mid-1980s, boxer "Irish" Micky Ward (Mark Wahlberg) trains to become a professional with the help of his girlfiend (Amy Adams) and his difficult brother (Christian Bale). Christian Bale won the Academy Award for Best Performance by an Actor, and Melissa Leo, playing Ward's mother, won the Oscar for Best Performance by an Actress in a Supporting Role. Directed by David O. Russell.
Tuesday, August 5, 2014
Monday, August 4, 2014
Irish Thought for August 4...
Irish Songs
The Wearin' o' the Green
Oh! Paddy, dear, and did you hear
The news that's going round,
The shamrock is forbid by law
To grow on Irish ground.
Saint Patrick's Day no more we'll keep
His color can't be seen
For there's a bloody law agin'
The wearing of the green.
I met with Napper Tandy
And he took me by the hand
And he said "How's poor old Ireland?
And how does she stand?"
She's the most distressful country
That ever you have seen,
They're hanging men and women there
For wearing of the green.
The Wearin' o' the Green
Oh! Paddy, dear, and did you hear
The news that's going round,
The shamrock is forbid by law
To grow on Irish ground.
Saint Patrick's Day no more we'll keep
His color can't be seen
For there's a bloody law agin'
The wearing of the green.
I met with Napper Tandy
And he took me by the hand
And he said "How's poor old Ireland?
And how does she stand?"
She's the most distressful country
That ever you have seen,
They're hanging men and women there
For wearing of the green.
Sunday, August 3, 2014
Irish Thought for August 3...
Irish Blessings
Like the warmth of the sun
And the light of the day,
May the luck of the Irish
shine bright on your way.
Like the warmth of the sun
And the light of the day,
May the luck of the Irish
shine bright on your way.
Saturday, August 2, 2014
Irish Thought for August 2...
Irish-American Celebrities
Wellington Mara
The son of Tim Mara, who founded the New York Giants in 1925, Wellington Mara was a co-owner of that team from 1959 until his death. Under his ownership and leadership, the Giants were one of the most successful NFL teams, but the League benefited from his vision as well: Wellington and his brother Jack, as the owners of the team in the NFL's largest market, agreed to a program that shared television revenue from major markets with smaller ones, thereby creating more parity among the teams. Among his 42 grandchildren are the the actresses Kate Mara and Rooney Mara.
Wellington Mara
The son of Tim Mara, who founded the New York Giants in 1925, Wellington Mara was a co-owner of that team from 1959 until his death. Under his ownership and leadership, the Giants were one of the most successful NFL teams, but the League benefited from his vision as well: Wellington and his brother Jack, as the owners of the team in the NFL's largest market, agreed to a program that shared television revenue from major markets with smaller ones, thereby creating more parity among the teams. Among his 42 grandchildren are the the actresses Kate Mara and Rooney Mara.
Friday, August 1, 2014
Irish Thought for August 1...
Irish Writers
William Butler Yeats
Born in Dublin, the poet and dramatist William Butler Yeats is considered to be one of the most important writers of the 20th century literature. In 1923, he was the first Irishman to win the Nobel Prize in Literature, although he is often credited with being one of the rare writers who composed his best work, including 1929s The Winding Stair and Other Poems, after receiving the award.
William Butler Yeats
Born in Dublin, the poet and dramatist William Butler Yeats is considered to be one of the most important writers of the 20th century literature. In 1923, he was the first Irishman to win the Nobel Prize in Literature, although he is often credited with being one of the rare writers who composed his best work, including 1929s The Winding Stair and Other Poems, after receiving the award.
Thursday, July 31, 2014
Irish Thought for July 31...
Irish-American Heroes
At the Alamo, as many as 12 of the defenders who were slain could claim Irish ancestry, among them folk hero Davey Crockett.
At the Alamo, as many as 12 of the defenders who were slain could claim Irish ancestry, among them folk hero Davey Crockett.
Wednesday, July 30, 2014
Tuesday, July 29, 2014
Irish Thought for July 29...
Limericks
A shy girl was Molly McClure,
With a mind that was holy and pure;
She fainted away
In a delicate way
If anyone mentioned manure.
A shy girl was Molly McClure,
With a mind that was holy and pure;
She fainted away
In a delicate way
If anyone mentioned manure.
Monday, July 28, 2014
Irish Thought for July 28...
Irish Toasts
Here's to you and here's to me.
May we never disagree.
But should we start to fight and cuss,
here's to me.
Here's to you and here's to me.
May we never disagree.
But should we start to fight and cuss,
here's to me.
Sunday, July 27, 2014
Irish Thought for July 27...
Quotations
To be Irish is to know that in the end the world will break your heart.
― Daniel Patrick Moynihan
To be Irish is to know that in the end the world will break your heart.
― Daniel Patrick Moynihan
Saturday, July 26, 2014
Friday, July 25, 2014
Irish Thought for July 25...
The Burren
Located in County Clare, the Burren is 50 square miles of bleak, irregular slabs of deeply cracked limestone, unspoiled since the Ice Ace, when the glaciers sheared off all the soil and carved up the rock. The name is from the Gaelic bhoireann, meaning "stony place." This damp, spooky moonscape is home to plants from various far-flung climates. There are a number of prehistoric gravesites, forts, and megalithic tombs, with relics of human habitations dating back almost 6,000 years. Spectacular caves have been found beneath the jagged rock surface. Legends connected to the Burren suggest that its sacred wells cure weak vision, its caves are inhabited by spirit horseman, and that its mysterious lakes move around the landscape without warning.
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| Burren landscape |
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| Burren landscape with Galway Bay in the Background |
Thursday, July 24, 2014
Irish Thought for July 24...
Irish Blessings
May your home always be too small to hold all your friends.
May your home always be too small to hold all your friends.
Wednesday, July 23, 2014
Irish Thought for July 23...
Irish-American Facts
The Knights of Columbus, a fraternal organization established in New Haven, Connecticut, in 1882, today has over 1.8 million members worldwide. It was founded by Father Michael J. McGivney (who is being considered for canonization) to aid impoverished Catholics, many of whom came to the U.S. during the Great Potato Famine. The organization continues to provide charitable services, life insurance and annuities, and to defend the Catholic faith. The organization was named for Christopher Columbus, in honor of his bringing Christianity to the the New World.
The Knights of Columbus, a fraternal organization established in New Haven, Connecticut, in 1882, today has over 1.8 million members worldwide. It was founded by Father Michael J. McGivney (who is being considered for canonization) to aid impoverished Catholics, many of whom came to the U.S. during the Great Potato Famine. The organization continues to provide charitable services, life insurance and annuities, and to defend the Catholic faith. The organization was named for Christopher Columbus, in honor of his bringing Christianity to the the New World.
Tuesday, July 22, 2014
Irish Thought for July 22...
Irish Food
Boxty
In the past, these simple potato pancakes were make from a combination of leftover mashed potatoes and grated raw potatoes to which baking powder and sweet milk were added. Today, boxty is sometimes flavored with onions and garlic.
Boxty
In the past, these simple potato pancakes were make from a combination of leftover mashed potatoes and grated raw potatoes to which baking powder and sweet milk were added. Today, boxty is sometimes flavored with onions and garlic.
Monday, July 21, 2014
Irish Thought for July 21...
Irish-American Celebrities
Bill Murray
After gaining attention on Saturday Night Live, Bill Murray became successful in the movie comedies Caddyshack, Ghostbusters, and Groundhog Day. He was nominated for an Academy Award in 2003 for his role in Lost in Translation. Murray continues to act, notably in the films of Wes Anderson.
Bill Murray
After gaining attention on Saturday Night Live, Bill Murray became successful in the movie comedies Caddyshack, Ghostbusters, and Groundhog Day. He was nominated for an Academy Award in 2003 for his role in Lost in Translation. Murray continues to act, notably in the films of Wes Anderson.
Sunday, July 20, 2014
Irish Thought for July 20...
Irish Etymology
"By hook or by crook"
coined when Oliver Cromwell planned to attack Waterford by taking ships around Hook Head or marching through the village of Crooke in 1649. These plans failed.
"By hook or by crook"
coined when Oliver Cromwell planned to attack Waterford by taking ships around Hook Head or marching through the village of Crooke in 1649. These plans failed.
Saturday, July 19, 2014
Friday, July 18, 2014
Irish Thought for July 18...
Kansas City Irish Fest News
Meet one of our artists, Laura Oliver
"Hi my name is Laura Oliver with Face Fancies Face Painting of Overland Park and I'm pleased to be back again painting for this years super exciting KC Irish Fest! I love all the fun and festivities of Irish Fest but probably the thing I love most is seeing the expressions of the kids we paint when they get that first look in the mirror! Not only kids though----We paint the BIG kid in EVERYONE. So come on out for some fantastic food, music and Art among other things---- there's always something new to be experienced at Irish Fest! Be sure to stop by one of the painting tents when you come to have me or one of the other talented artists paint you up with clovers or rainbows --- or whatever you wish!"
Meet one of our artists, Laura Oliver
"Hi my name is Laura Oliver with Face Fancies Face Painting of Overland Park and I'm pleased to be back again painting for this years super exciting KC Irish Fest! I love all the fun and festivities of Irish Fest but probably the thing I love most is seeing the expressions of the kids we paint when they get that first look in the mirror! Not only kids though----We paint the BIG kid in EVERYONE. So come on out for some fantastic food, music and Art among other things---- there's always something new to be experienced at Irish Fest! Be sure to stop by one of the painting tents when you come to have me or one of the other talented artists paint you up with clovers or rainbows --- or whatever you wish!"
Thursday, July 17, 2014
Irish Thought for July 17...
Quotations
Billy is that sterotypical, lovable Irishman, drinks too much, talks too much, puts his arm around you at 3 A.M., when everybody else has gone home, and with tears in his eyes tells you how much he loves you. He's a great guy but also he's drinking himself to death, and no on can stop him.
-Alice McDermott, on the title character of her novel Charming Billy
Billy is that sterotypical, lovable Irishman, drinks too much, talks too much, puts his arm around you at 3 A.M., when everybody else has gone home, and with tears in his eyes tells you how much he loves you. He's a great guy but also he's drinking himself to death, and no on can stop him.
-Alice McDermott, on the title character of her novel Charming Billy
Wednesday, July 16, 2014
Irish Thought for July 16...
Kansas City Irish Fest News
Blarney and Beyond
It is with great pleasure that the Children’s Area of the Kansas City Irish Fest announces their first performer for 2014.
“Yvonne Healy is an Irish pixie of a performer!” She didn’t merely kiss the Blarney Stone; she swallowed it. Participatory kids’ tales, chilling and comic ghost stories, outrageous family lore, or thought-provoking adult fare: this diversely talented wordsmith opens windows to life, as real and touching as it gets. Funny, too! Writer, storyteller, and “gifted educator” in preschool through college and professional programs, her award-winning presentations address curriculum content expectations for grades K-12 (GLCEs, HSCEs). Michigan based and Midwest favorite, Healy is a born storyteller! When she talks, the wind forgets to blow and kids forget about TV.
Yvonne is the only US performer approved as an Irish storyteller by Ireland's cultural authorities, Glor na nGael and Oireachtas na Gaelige.
Blarney and Beyond
It is with great pleasure that the Children’s Area of the Kansas City Irish Fest announces their first performer for 2014.
“Yvonne Healy is an Irish pixie of a performer!” She didn’t merely kiss the Blarney Stone; she swallowed it. Participatory kids’ tales, chilling and comic ghost stories, outrageous family lore, or thought-provoking adult fare: this diversely talented wordsmith opens windows to life, as real and touching as it gets. Funny, too! Writer, storyteller, and “gifted educator” in preschool through college and professional programs, her award-winning presentations address curriculum content expectations for grades K-12 (GLCEs, HSCEs). Michigan based and Midwest favorite, Healy is a born storyteller! When she talks, the wind forgets to blow and kids forget about TV.
Yvonne is the only US performer approved as an Irish storyteller by Ireland's cultural authorities, Glor na nGael and Oireachtas na Gaelige.
Tuesday, July 15, 2014
Irish Thought for July 15...
Irish-American Writers
Alice McDermott
In her fiction, Alice McDermott has drawn from her family's Irish-Catholic background, creating working class characters, often in New York City, who struggle with faith, alcohol, and real life versus their dreams. In an interview after winning the National Book Award for her novel Charming Billy, McDermott said, "Being Irish-American myself, Irish-American material is readily at hand to me. I know Irish-American people. I know what their homes look like. I know what they have for dinner. I know how they turn a phrase."
Alice McDermott
In her fiction, Alice McDermott has drawn from her family's Irish-Catholic background, creating working class characters, often in New York City, who struggle with faith, alcohol, and real life versus their dreams. In an interview after winning the National Book Award for her novel Charming Billy, McDermott said, "Being Irish-American myself, Irish-American material is readily at hand to me. I know Irish-American people. I know what their homes look like. I know what they have for dinner. I know how they turn a phrase."
Monday, July 14, 2014
Irish Thought for July 14...
Irish Blessings
May the hinges of our friendship never grow rusty, and may our ale never turn musty.
May the hinges of our friendship never grow rusty, and may our ale never turn musty.
Sunday, July 13, 2014
Irish Thought for July 13...
Irish Writers
Seamus Heaney
Born in Bellaghy, poet Seamus Heaney is a highly influential and beloved poet with a particularly Irish writing voice. In the UK, two-third of the books sold by living poets are his. In 1995, he won the Nobel Prize in Literature, and in 2006 he was awarded the T.S. Eliot Prize. Heaney lives in Dublin.
Seamus Heaney
Born in Bellaghy, poet Seamus Heaney is a highly influential and beloved poet with a particularly Irish writing voice. In the UK, two-third of the books sold by living poets are his. In 1995, he won the Nobel Prize in Literature, and in 2006 he was awarded the T.S. Eliot Prize. Heaney lives in Dublin.
Saturday, July 12, 2014
Friday, July 11, 2014
Irish Thought for July 11...
Irish-American Heroes
Johanna Sullivan Macy, better known as Annie Sullivan, gained international fame as the tutor, governess, and companion of Helen Keller.
Johanna Sullivan Macy, better known as Annie Sullivan, gained international fame as the tutor, governess, and companion of Helen Keller.
Thursday, July 10, 2014
Irish Thought for July 10...
Irish Musicians
The Cranberries
An Irish pop-rock band formed Limerick in 1989, the member of the Cranberries are Dolores O'Riordan (vocals), Noel Hogan (guitar), Mike Hogan (bass), and Fergal Lawler (drums) With their debut album, Everybody Else Is Doing It, So Why Can't We? , the Cranberries achieved international fame. Since then the band has charted four Top 20 albums on the Billboard 200 and sold more than 40 million records internationally.
The Cranberries
An Irish pop-rock band formed Limerick in 1989, the member of the Cranberries are Dolores O'Riordan (vocals), Noel Hogan (guitar), Mike Hogan (bass), and Fergal Lawler (drums) With their debut album, Everybody Else Is Doing It, So Why Can't We? , the Cranberries achieved international fame. Since then the band has charted four Top 20 albums on the Billboard 200 and sold more than 40 million records internationally.
Wednesday, July 9, 2014
Irish Thought for July 9...
Irish-America By the Numbers
When the next St. Patrick's Day rolls around, you might wast to head to Scituate, Massachusetts, the most Irish-American town in the country, according to data from the 2009 census, where 47.5 percent of its residents claim Irish blood. Next up are Braintree, Massachusetts, with Irish-Americans comprising 46.5 percent of its population; Milton, Massachusetts, at 44.6 percent; and Evergreen Park, Illinois, at 39.6 percent.
When the next St. Patrick's Day rolls around, you might wast to head to Scituate, Massachusetts, the most Irish-American town in the country, according to data from the 2009 census, where 47.5 percent of its residents claim Irish blood. Next up are Braintree, Massachusetts, with Irish-Americans comprising 46.5 percent of its population; Milton, Massachusetts, at 44.6 percent; and Evergreen Park, Illinois, at 39.6 percent.
Tuesday, July 8, 2014
Irish Thought for July 8...
Kansas City Irish Fest News
I am pleased to announce this year’s Story Contest:
Kansas City Irish Fest Shanachie Contest – 2014
Far Afield Story Contest
Our story this year is about the Magical Creatures out of the Irish Woodlands.
Contest Info: We are looking for a Shanachie. An Irish storyteller is called a Shanachie, pronounced sha na key. If you possess any Celtic blood (real or borrowed) - at all - then look to yourself, deep inside yourself, there you will hear the echoes of the voice of The Last Giant, the voice of Ossian, calling to you, telling you of the Times of the Giants and the Days and Nights of the Fairy Folk - the mythology and rich history that you humans love to hear. The fairies gave us laughter and the giants who have merged with nature taught us how to treat each other and the earth. And many of the ghosts that came from the forests taught us how to enjoy a good old fashioned thriller. So, you may want to give us a lesson or you may want to give us a fright with your story.
We will have winners from four age groups - 14-18 years old (high school), 10-13 (middle school), 7-9 (older grade school), and finally 4-6 (when the seeds of writing are just being planted ;)
The winners will be the special guests of the Children’s area at the Festival and there will be more for the age group winners once they are at the FEST. Prize day will be Sunday, August 31. More to come about prizes…
From the Fairy Queen
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