text:
1. The average height of Irish men is 5' 8".
2. The average height of Irish women is 5'5".
3. 90% of Irish nationals are Catholic, but only 30% ever attend church.
4. The Irish report the lowest annual number of UFO sightings in Europe.
5. 70% of married Irish women would consider having an affair while on a foreign holiday without their spouse or children.
6. 90% of all Irish men would do the same.
7. 73% of Americans are unable to locate Ireland on a map bereft of country names.
8. Raymond O'Brien was the shortest person in Irish history. The dwarf, who died in 1795, was one foot eleven inches tall.
9. Only 9% of the Irish population are natural redheads.
10. May is generally the driest month of the year in Ireland.
Read more: The top ten random and weird facts about Ireland
11. RTE's "The Late Late Show" is the world's second-longest-running talk show and the longest running talk show in Europe.
12. 57% of Irish people wear glasses or contact lenses.
13. Cats now outnumber dogs by two to one as Ireland's most popular pet.
14. Dublin boasts one pub for every 100 head of population.
15. Irish marriages last an average of 13 years, although the majority do not end in divorce. Irish couples prefer to separate and live in sin with their new partners rather than go through costly legal proceedings.
16. A song only needs to sell 5,000 copies to top the Irish music charts.
17. A book only needs to sell 3,000 copies to top the Irish bestseller list.
18. The Canary Islands are the most popular sunshine holiday destination with retired Irish citizens.
19. The River Shannon is the longest river in Ireland or Britain.
20. The heaviest Irish person on record was Aine Gowan. At the time of her death, she weighed over 600 pounds.
Read more: Top ten little-known facts about Ireland (VIDEO)
* Originally published in January 2014.]]>
You know you're Irish if...
~ The person that you insult most is probably your best friend.
~ During your youth, much of your food was boiled.
~ You're strangely poetic after a few beers.
~ You don't know the words but that doesn't stop you from singing.
~ You can't wait for the other guy to stop talking so you can start talking.
~ You have no idea how to make a long story short.
~ Tea is the solution to every problem.
~ And holy water is the solution to every injury.
~ Saying 'I will yea' means that you definitely won't.
~ 'For the craic' is the best reason for doing anything.
~ Nobody can go a day without saying 'Jaysus'.
~ You have a gift for swearing.
~ You can insert the name of a gardening tool into any sentence and it still makes sense, e.g. 'I had a rake of drink last night' or "I'll be out in a minute, I'm just shoveling down the dinner'.
~ It's perfectly acceptable to call your mother 'mammy' even though you are a fully grown adult.
~ Saying 'Now we're sucking diesel' means that you are happy with the outcome of the situation.
~ Drinking 'tae' is everyone's favorite past time.
~ You're scared of the wooden spoon.
~ The word 'like' goes in every sentence.
~ You can say "Any craic' to a policeman and you won't get arrested.]]>
Perhaps it is the fact that bread-making was so much a part of daily life in Ireland that makes the recipe, the smell and the taste so special to Irish people.
In rural areas, where homes were more isolated, most kitchens had open hearths and the bread would be cooked on griddles or in three-legged black iron pots, over the turf fires. The resulting loaf was tender and dense, with a sour tang and a hard crust.
The bread was quite perishable and so every two or three days another loaf would be made and the smell of fresh bread again wafting through the house.
How to make Irish soda bread for St. Patrick's Day
Imagine, a nice cuppa tea and some homemade bread for St. Patrick's Day. Get the full recipe here: http://irsh.us/2mMkldcPosted by IrishCentral.com on Thursday, March 16, 2017
Preheat oven to 450F.
Combine the flours, baking soda and salt in a large bowl.
Mix thoroughly.
Make a well in the center of mixture.
Add buttermilk to flour mixture; stir until blended (dough will be sticky).
Turn dough out onto a generously floured surface. Knead lightly 4 to 5 times.
Shape dough into an 8-inch round loaf; place on a baking sheet coated with cooking spray.
Bake at 450 for 15 minutes.
Reduce oven temperature to 400 and continue to bake for another 15 minutes, or until loaf sounds hollow when tapped underneath.
Cool on a wire rack. Simple and delicious!
Healthy tip: To reduce calories simply use low-fat buttermilk instead of full-fat buttermilk.
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As children, we always had to give up sweets for Lent and it was always such a treat to be able to eat candy on St. Patrick's Day. The most affordable special dinner is cooked on that day.
It is not corned beef and cabbage, which is really an Irish American version of the traditional bacon and cabbage dinner. The bacon and cabbage may be served or it could be roast beef or Irish stew. It is really a day for family and friends to celebrate together.
Until the 1970s, pubs in Ireland were closed on this day but now that they are open, a visit to the local pub in the evening is often warranted. In the pub there will be songs, stories and dancing. In city pubs, there is often a band but in the local country pubs, the good singers of the area will sing traditional Irish songs.
As closing time approaches, the locals who are tone deaf will be getting up to sing. At this point, everyone will join in and if the weather is dry, the party will continue on the street after the pub closes.
History of corned beef and cabbage
While many North Americans associate corned beef and cabbage with Ireland, this popular St. Patrick's Day meal has roots in America, and is not traditional Irish food.
Corned beef, a salt-cured brisket, was traditionally packed and stored in barrels with coarse grains, or "corns" of salt. One of the earliest references to corned beef appears in the 12th century Gaelic poem Aislinge Meic Conglinne, where it references a dainty, gluttonous indulgence. By the 17th century, salting beef had become a major industry for Irish port cities of Cork and Dublin, where Irish beef was cured and exported to France, England and later to America.
With the majority of Irish beef being exported, beef was an expensive source of protein and unavailable to the majority of Irish citizens. Cows, if owned at all, were raised predominately for their dairy products, from which butter, cheese and cream could be obtained, and were only slaughtered when they were no longer good for milking. Sheep were raised as a source of wool and hogs and pigs were one of the only livestock species raised by the peasantry for consumption.
Salt pork and bacon, therefore, became the commonly consumed meat protein of Irish tables. Fat from bacon supplemented the lack of fat in the farmhouse diet and Sir Charles Cameron was quoted as saying that he does "not know of any country in the world where so much bacon and cabbage is eaten." Even today corned beef and cabbage appears infrequently in Irish pubs and restaurants, except for those in heavily tourist areas, and is much more likely to be replaced its traditional counterpart - an Irish stew with cabbage, leeks, and a bacon joint.
After the Irish potato blight, or Great Famine, of the mid-19th century brought hundreds of Irish emigrants to the shores of America, the newly immigrated Irish Americans found corned beef to be both more accessible and more affordable than it was in Ireland. Both corned beef and cabbage were ingredients of the lower working class, and their popularity among the Irish population likely had little to do with similarities to the food of Ireland and more to do with the relatively inexpensive nature of salt cured beef and green cabbage.
For several decades following the Irish immigration, St Patrick's Day was celebrated with music, crafts and revelry but banquets, while lavish, contained a scarcity of traditional Irish cuisine. However by the 1920s, corned beef and cabbage came to have an association with Irish American cooking, although it was also used in the cooking of eastern European Jews.
New York City corned beef and cabbage:
One 3-pound corned beef brisket (uncooked), in brine
16 cups cold water
2 bay leaves
2 teaspoons black peppercorns
4 whole allspice berries
2 whole cloves
½ large head green cabbage (about 2 pounds), cut into 8 thick wedges
8 small new potatoes (about 1¼ pounds), halved
Freshly ground black pepper
Preheat the oven to 300 degrees.
Place the corned beef in a colander in the sink and rinse well under cold running water.
Place the corned beef in a large Dutch oven with a tight-fitting lid; add the water, bay leaves, peppercorns, allspice, and cloves. Bring to a boil, uncovered, and skim off any scum that rises to the surface. Cover and transfer pan to the oven, and braise until very tender, about 3 hours and 45 minutes.
Transfer the corned beef to a cutting board and cover tightly with foil to keep warm. Add the cabbage and potatoes to the cooking liquid and bring to a boil. Lower the heat and simmer until the vegetables are tender, about 20 minutes.
Using a slotted spoon, transfer the cabbage to a large platter. Slice the corned beef across the grain of the meat into thin slices. Lay the slices over the cabbage and surround it with the potatoes. Ladle some of the hot cooking liquid over the corned beef and season with pepper. Serve immediately with mustard or horseradish sauce.
AND FINALLY… Seamus was about to go on his first date, so he asked his brother, the ladies man, for advice. "Give me some tips on how to talk to them."
"Here's the secret," said his brother, "Irish girls like to talk about three things: food, family, and philosophy. If you ask a girl what she likes to eat, it shows your intentions are honorable. If you discuss philosophy, it shows you respect her intelligence."
"Gee, thanks," said Seamus. "Food, family and philosophy. I can handle that."
That night as he met the young lady, Seamus blurted out,
"Do you like cabbage?"
"Uh, no," said the puzzled girl.
"Do you have a brother?" asked Seamus.
"Well, if you had a brother, do you think he would like cabbage?"
May your blessings outnumber
The shamrocks that grow,
And may trouble avoid you
Wherever you go.
Chef Gilligan
His opponent in the contest, Brendan Lynch, has accepted the result after board members who voted by proxy expressed their support for Lane, sources close to the parade told the Irish Voice.
"I am very grateful for the chance to serve as vice chairman of the greatest parade in the world and look forward to helping to make it even better," Lane, born in New York and raised in Co. Galway, told the Irish Voice.
Lane, senior vice president at a major financial institution in New York, and Lynch, an associate principal with Bard, Rao + Athanas Consulting Engineers in New York, were the two candidates for the position of vice chairman formerly held by John Fitzsimons who passed last year.
At the meeting on June 7, Lane received five votes from the board members present, while Lynch's total was seven. Three proxies for missing board members were not voted because they contained the names of board chairman John Lahey and chief financial officer Frank McGreal, and their preference for vice chairman differed – Lahey was in favor of Lane, and McGreal for Lynch. After the meeting Lahey contacted the board members who held the proxies – Denis Kelleher, Timothy Rooney and Jean Husted – and they expressed a wish to cast their votes for Lane, thus bringing the count to his favor.
Lynch, a long-time volunteer with the St. Patrick's Day parades in both New York and Eastchester – both he and Lane were elected to the New York board of directors earlier this year – was angered by the result when the proxy votes were cast in Lane's favor, and sent a letter to board members and the parade's affiliated organizations which criticized Lahey for how he managed the meeting and the vote process.
However, Lynch will not contest the result any further and continues to serve on the parade board which will next year elect a new chairman as Lahey again confirmed at the meeting that he will step down after next year's march.
Tommy Smyth, who co-hosts the parade broadcast on NBC and is a former grand marshal, was elected as president of the parade board at the meeting. The board plans on convening again after July 4, either by phone or in person.
Lane is the co-founder of the St. Patrick's Day Foundation, NYC, which provides funding for the parade and its scholarship program through its annual gala every March 16, and a golf outing in the autumn. In March, he became an honorary member of the Fighting 69th for his fundraising efforts on behalf of the regiment. He is also a member of the board of the Galway University Foundation and the Abbey Theatre in Dublin, and is a member of the leadership circle for Northwell Health's Department of Medicine]]>
New York was the most popular destination, reports The Sunday Times.
Records released under freedom of information laws show more than $55,988 (€50,000) was spent on flights, and $90,700 (€81,000) on hotels.
Meath county council sent the largest delegation abroad, with six people going to New York and four to London. The total cost was more than $22,395 (€20,000).
"Councillors work throughout the year representing the people of Meath, and St Patrick's Day is an ideal opportunity for them to support Meath people living abroad and to recognize the work of the Meath associations," said the local authority.
The delegation to New York stayed four nights in one of the city's Fitzpatrick hotels, with bills costing from $1,451 (€1,296) to $1,864 (€1,665) per person.
Limerick's council, which spent over $31,378 (€28,000) sending six people to the U.S., ran up the largest bill. The four councillors and two officials spent $13,437 (€12,000) on hotels. The delegation was led by Kieran O'Hanlon, a Fianna Fail councillor and mayor, who traveled to New York, Boston, and Washington during his eight-day trip.
An additional $4,143 (€3,700) was paid for a series of receptions and meetings in New York, including a $,1070 (€956) bill from New York's Empire Steak House; $496 (€443) at Bloom's Tavern; and two bills of $1,584 (€1,415) and $565 (€505) to Rosie O'Grady's pub.
Cork county council incurred a bill of $24,635 (€22,000) for sending four people, including two senior officials to the U.S. The trip to Chicago, Detroit, and New York cost $7,260 (€6,484) for flights, and almost $9,407 (€8,400) on hotels, including an unscheduled weather-enforced overnight stay in Milwaukee.
The accommodation at the Crowne Plaza at Times Square cost $392 (€350) per night per room. The group also shelled out $3261 (€2,912) for sterling-silver gifts to be presented in America, including torcs, cufflinks and bookmarks, while $4,043 (€3,611) was spent on official receptions and dinners.
The council said: "The itinerary was very intensive with a series of rolling engagements from arrival in the US to departure. Its focus was on developing relationships across a wide range of common interest areas, including economic development, tourism, trade and cultural endeavors.
"The council is satisfied the costs involved reflect value for money, are of direct benefit to Cork, and that economic prudence and a value for money ethos was applied."
Bills of more than $11,198 (€10,000) were also run up by councils in Sligo, Donegal, and Louth. Kerry sent a delegation at a cost of $11,037 (€9,857), Mayo sent one for $10,195 (€9,105), and Carlow sent a group with a final bill of $10,188 (€9,099).
The Sunday Times notes that not all local authorities sent delegations abroad for St Patrick's Day, with no one traveling from any of the four Dublin councils.]]>
"Correction: June 16, 2017
"An earlier version of the illustration associated with this article showed a four-leaf clover to symbolize Ireland, but the Irish shamrock is conventionally depicted as a trefoil. The image has been amended accordingly."
The august New York Times does not seem to know that the shamrock not the four-leaf clover is the symbol of Ireland.
How they will hate this: They join Donald Trump, whose campaign caps last St Patrick's Day showed a clover alongside his "Make America Great Again" slogan. Trump quickly pulled the baseball caps.
President Obama can't hide either. As we reported in 2013: "The Obama re-election camp has corrected their four-leaf clover gaffe and released a special 'I Shamrock O'Bama' t-shirt just in time for St. Patrick's Day."
The Times, Trump, and Obama thus join up with every used-car dealer, blarney hustler, and bars that should know better that display the clover not the shamrock around St.Patrick's Day as their contribution to Irish culture.
Their admission to this came at the end of an excellent op-ed piece by Irish writer Fintan O'Toole entitled, "Are the English able to govern themselves?" The question is also does the New York Times know anything about Ireland?
Displaying the clover instead of the shamrock displays a remarkable ignorance about the symbolism of Ireland. Would you mistake a chihuahua as a national symbol of Britain rather than an English bulldog? How about a crow instead of an eagle for the United States?
Somehow, though, time and again, there is a failure to understand that the shamrock is not a four-leaf cover.
FYI before coming to Ireland:— Bethany💡 (@illumendeshawn) June 12, 2017
🇮🇪<-this is the flag
🇨🇮<-this is not(Ivory Coast)
☘<-this is a shamrock st.pat used it
🍀<-four leaf clover :)
As journalist Amy Willis wrote last St.Patrick's Day in her Metro UK column: "Hang your head in shame if you thought a four-leaf clover was linked to St Patrick's Day.
"That's because you are totally confusing your lucky charms – either that or you can't count.
"It is actually shamrocks that are associated with St Patrick's Day and JSYK a four-leaf clover is absolutely NOT the same thing as a shamrock."
Got that New York Times? A four-leaf clover is absolutely NOT the same thing as a shamrock.
How to know? A four-leaf clover, yes, four leaves, A shamrock has three.
St. Patrick in legend did not take a four-leaf clover to explain the Holy Trinity. He picked up a shamrock.
Shamrocks and four-leaf clovers are not the same thing. A Shamrock has three leaves, said to represent the Trinity.
Read more: Everything you know about the St. Patrick's Day shamrock is a lie
In an article from Christy Dorrity on a blog dedicated to Irish dance, the differences between the two are outlined:
1. A four-leaf clover is a mutation of a shamrock, and can represent faith, hope, love and luck.
2. Alternately, the four leaves stand for Father, Son, Holy Spirit, and God's Grace.
3. The term "shamrock" comes from the Irish word, seamrog, which translates to "little clover"
4. During the reign of Queen Victoria, the shamrock was identified as a sign of rebellion and independence from the British crown
5. To wear a shamrock on a military uniform was classified as a crime punishable by death.
6. The shamrock has been registered as a trademark by the Government of Ireland.
7. Clovers can have more than four leaves: the most ever recorded is twenty-one.
8. It has been estimated that there are approximately 10,000 three-leaf clovers for every four-leaf clover.
9. For good luck, a four-leaf clover can be included in the bouquet of an Irish bride, and also in the boutonniere of the groom.
10. According to Nathaniel Colgan, the botanist and author of The Flora Of County Dublin in 1904, people even ate the shamrock in times of famine.
11. No one can agree on which type of clover is the original shamrock.
We can all see a shamrock is not a four leaf clove Can't we all get along on this?]]>
Declan Cole won first place in the high school honors, followed by Gavin Cogan in second and Liam Murphy in third.
Maureen Dunphy Brady took first place college honors, with Thomas McNulty in second place and Paul Li finishing third.
The scholarship program is held annually in memory of two outstanding past parade leaders, Francis P. Beirne and Margaret O'Rourke. Applicants are required to research Irish and Irish American historical topics and submit an essay.
The essay is reviewed by a panel of judges who are representative of the parade's main marching groups: the Ancient Order of Hibernians, the Ladies Ancient Order of Hibernians, the United Irish Counties and the Grand Council of United Emerald Societies.
"We thank the panel of judges who gave up their time to review the research papers and especially thank all of the applicants for their submissions," said Catherine Tully Muscente, co-chair of the program. "The scholarship program is important as it engages young]]>
This St. Patrick's Day Guinness are throwing a hooley (meaning party) and everyone's invited. The iconic Irish brand are going on tour around Ireland and exploring some mouth-watering food and beer pairings, in Ireland and in the USA.
It's Irish American Heritage month so what better way to celebrate than with some great Irish food and drinks.
Cook time: 2.5 hours
Prep time: 45 minutes
Yield: 12 (1 1/2 lb.) short ribs
Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
Braised short ribs
- 2 gallons beef stock
- 2 cups tomato juice
- 2 cans Guinness draught beer
- 2 carrots, diced
- 4 celery stalks, diced
- 2 chopped onions
- 4 sprigs of fresh thyme
- 12 (1 1/2 pound) bone-in short ribs
- Canola oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Season short ribs generously with salt and pepper.
- Coat your pot with canola oil and pan sear short ribs in batches.
- When the meat is seared to an amber brown color, transfer to a roasting pan.
- In the same pot, sauté carrots, onions, and celery for 5 to 8 minutes then transfer to the roasting pan.
- Add two cans of Guinness draught to deglaze the pot over medium heat.
- Pour this liquid over the short ribs in your roasting pan.
- Add beef stock, tomato juice, and fresh thyme to the roasting pan and cover tightly with foil.
- Place meat into preheated oven and braise for 2 to 2.5 hours.
- The short ribs will slightly pull away from the bone when cooked.
- Ribs vary in size so cook times may differ.
- Remove short ribs from the roasting pan and transfer to a plate to rest.
- Strain the remaining liquid and divide in half.
- Pour one half of the liquid into a saucepan and reduce over medium/high heat and reduce to create a sauce.
- When ready to serve, simmer short ribs in the second half of your liquid until tender, approximately 15 minutes.
- Spoon sauce reduction over the short ribs and serve with horseradish mashed potatoes and sautéed Brussels sprout leaves.
Horseradish mashed potatoes
- 6 russet potatoes, peeled and quartered
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 tablespoons horseradish
- In a large heavy pot, cover potatoes with cold salted water. Simmer uncovered over medium heat for 10-15 minutes until tender.
- Drain potatoes, then push through a ricer or mash well while potatoes are still warm.
- Add butter, cream, and horseradish to potatoes and stir.
- Season with salt and pepper and serve hot.]]>
Serves 6-8
4oz butter plus extra for greasing
5oz soft light brown sugar
2 large free range eggs
7oz plain flour, sifted
1 tablespoon baking powder
pinch of salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
11oz peeled, cored and sliced cooking apple (Shouldn't be more than one large one)
For the crumble topping:
2oz of vanilla sugar (or substitute with caster sugar)
2oz of plain flour
2oz of butter
Preheat the oven to 360°F, grease and line an 8in cake tin with a removable base. With an electric hand mixer, beat the butter and sugar in a large bowl until pale. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing until they are incorporated.
Fold through the flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon until you have a thick cake batter. Stir through the apple and pour the batter into the cake tin. The batter will be thick, so use a spatula to spread across the base of the tin.
Using a hand blender with a food processor attachment, blitz the ingredients for the crumble topping until you get left with rough crumbs. You can also do this by hand in a bowl using your fingertips to combine the ingredients together. Sprinkle the crumble topping on top of the batter.
Bake in the oven for 40-45 minutes or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
Remove from the oven and leave to cool.
1. The love of St. Patrick
May the love of St.Patrick,
find a place in your heart,
A love of a country,
a land set apart,
A love of a people,
so proud and so true,
and lastly the love,
that I feel now for you.
2. Untitled
To the land of his master's a shepherd boy came,
But to conquer their hearts not to seek for his fame,
And now his blessed name is known all the world wide,
And the glory of Patrick is Ireland's best pride.
3. Wishing you always
Wishing you always—
Walls for the wind
And a roof for the rain
And tea beside the fire.
Laughter to cheer you
And those you love near you
And all that your heart might desire!
4. St Patrick's Day Verse
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.
5. An Irish Blessing
May these rich blessings be your due—
A wealth of friendships, old and new,
Some service rendered, some solace given,
And gentle peace with God and Heaven.
6. May you always have...
May you always have...
enough luck to make you smile,
enough trials to keep you strong,
enough of all life's treasures
to keep you truly happy.
7. Saint Patrick was a gentleman (As sung by the Wolfe Tones on the album 'Spirit Of The Nation.')
Verse 1: Saint Patrick was a gentleman, he came from decent people
In Dublin town he built a church and on it put a steeple
His father was a Callaghan, his mother was a Brady
His auntie an O'Shaughnessy, his uncle an O'Grady
Chorus: Then here's to bold St. Paddy's fist, he was a saint so clever
He gave the snakes and toads a twist and banished them forever
Verse 2: There's not a mile in Eireann's isle where the dirty vermin musters
Where'er he put his dear forefoot, he murdered them in clusters
The toads went hop, the frogs went pop, slap dash into the water
And beasts committed suicide to save themselves from slaughter
Verse 3: The Wicklow hills are very high and so is the hill of Howth, sir
'Twas on the top of this high hill Saint Patrick preached his sermons
He drove the frogs into the bogs and banished all the vermins
And there's a hill much bigger still, much higher than them both, sir
Verse 4: No wonder that those Irish lads should be so gay and frisky
For sure Saint Pat, he taught them that, as well as making whiskey
No wonder that the saint himself should understand distilling
His mother kept a shebeen shop in the town of Enniskillen
* Originally published March 2010.]]>
Back before the days of electricity and refrigeration, one of the few ways to preserve meat for the winter season was to salt cure it. In fall, when temperatures were chilly and cold, cows were harvested, and the meat packed into wooden barrels between alternating layers of coarse salt.
This salt was roughly the size of kernels of corn; hence the term "corned" beef. Salting also gives the beef its pungent, piquant flavor and chewy fibrous texture as well.
So why salt?
Salt is excellent at removing moisture from cells via osmotic pressure. Too much salt can make us feel thirsty, as it naturally drives water from our cells. This is why salt "cures" animal flesh so effectively. It also creates an environment that is hostile to bacteria and fungus as well.
Boiling is essential in driving out salt, and tenderizing the meat. Cabbage is an excellent "wintering" vegetable because of its high density, and it keeps well in root cellars—artificial "caves" dug beneath ground—hence the natural combination of corned beef and cabbage in winter. It's of interest that corned beef is rarely prepared this way any longer, but is "wet cured" in a brine solution with spices.
New York City is perhaps best known as the capital city of corned beef. St. Patrick's Day often sees New York hosting the nation's premier corned beef competitions, featuring the best of the corner deli best, including Blarney Stone, Casey's, Fitzpatrick Hotel, Grandstand, The Kettle Black, and Langan's, all prime purveyors of salty beef piled mile high with hearty pickle on rye.
Corned beef and cabbage, however, similar to that served at the New York City St. Patrick's Day Parade, may have originated in the United States and only recently found its way to Ireland. Some claim that corned beef and cabbage originated in New York City, and that is why New York City is known for the best corned beef and cabbage in the world.
The argument can be made that corned beef is about as Irish as General Tso's chicken is Chinese. Indeed, you'd have less difficulty tracking down the meat in a New York bar than in a Dublin pub. But don't judge the dish too harshly. This briny brisket fed the folks that made America—just as our cities were built on carry-out Chinese, anchored by the inauthentic fried egg roll.
10 spring roll wrappers
6 cups hot water for soaking wrappers
1lb cooked white cabbage or use a 16oz. package of Sauerkraut, drained
1 medium onion, finely minced
1 tsp caraway seeds
1 tbs olive oil
½ lb thinly sliced corned beef, julienne
½ tsp ground black pepper
4 oz. shredded Swiss cheese, chilled
1 quart peanut oil or other high heat oil
Thousand Island dressing
Oh, and don't forget the cool, frothy Guinness, not for the recipe but just to have while making the dish!
Sauté the minced onion in olive oil over a medium flame until translucent, about 5 minutes. Set aside. Place cooked cabbage or sauerkraut in a lint-free dishcloth and wring out any remaining water or brine. Place cabbage or sauerkraut in large mixing bowl. Add pepper, caraway seeds, onion, and cheese. Mix thoroughly. Set aside.
Soak one spring roll wrapper in hot water. Use tongs to remove wrapper. Place on prep area. Wrapper may stick so a lint-free cloth may be used under wrapper.
Ingredients should be added 1 inch from the edge closest to the preparer.
Add 6 slices of corned beef and then cabbage from the left to right side of the spring roll wrapper. You may have to adjust amounts, less or more, depending on the size of the wrapper or desired fullness. Fold left and right sides of wrapper over edges of filling. Roll wrapper from bottom. Repeat with remaining spring roll wrappers.
Heat the oil to 375F. Fry spring rolls until golden brown and drain on paper towels. Cut in half. Serve hot with a side of Thousand Island dressing.
Traditional Irish fare but with an modern day twist, corned beef and cabbage spring roll.
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* Originally published in 2013.]]>
The truth? There is no such thing as leprechauns in Ireland.
Apologies to any would-be believers in magical crocks of gold. The whole leprechaun thing was more of a Disney invention that came along with the likes of bad 'Oirish' accents in films such as "Darby O'Gill and the Little People."
But fairies ... they do exist. Oh yes, and here in Ireland, we do not mess with the fairies, ever!
They are known to live in very special places called fairy rings, which are raised earthen circular mounds that you will see all over Ireland.
You are welcome to visit them, walk around them, make a wish by all means. But it is thought to be very bad luck to interfere with these mounds. Driving motorways through them - bad, very bad. Certain trees are revered, too, especially hawthorns, which country people will never chop down or remove for fear of disturbing the fairies who often live underneath and who are likely to wreak havoc if disturbed i.e., sour milk, cause crops to fail, animals to sicken and die.
So don't say ye haven't been warned!
No one knows more about fairies in Ireland than Eddie Lenihan, a gifted storyteller or Seanchaí who lives in Clare, and who has collected his stories from all over Ireland. This is one of his best:
If you ever get a chance to listen to one of his sessions, don't miss it. You will be in for a treat. Or indeed if you are hauled up on a high stool in a pub somewhere, someday, it won't be long before a good storytelling session will start.
Author Susan Byron of www.irelands-hidden-gems.com.
* Originally published in 2013.
Here is the IrishCentral list to clinking to the good times. Sláinte!
1. May your giving hand never fail you.
2. May we all be alive at this same time next year.
3. May the Lord keep you in the palm of His hand, and never close his fist too tight!
4. May you live as long as you want and never want as long as you live!
5. May the best day of your past be the worst day of your future.
6. Here's to a long life and a merry one. A quick death and an easy one. A pretty girl and an honest one. A cold beer-and another one!
7. May your troubles be less, And your blessings be more. And nothing but happiness come through your door.
8. May your neighbors respect you, trouble neglect you, the angels protect you, and heaven accept you.
9. Merry met, and merry part, I drink to thee with all my heart.
10. Dung hills rise and castles fall, we are all equal one and all.]]>
We've put together the top ten recipes as chosen by IrishCentral readers. Although some of them, such as corned beef and cabbage and stew, are no-brainers, the IrishCentral readers went a little off script with spring rolls and pasta bakes making it into their top Irish recipes list.
Just click on the title to view the simple recipes. Knock them together, sit down and enjoy them with your friends and family.
1. Corned Beef and Cabbage
Although in Ireland we opt for bacon rather than corned beef, when the Irish arrived in New York there was none to be found. The Jewish butchers substituted the bacon for corned beef and low and behold the tradition stuck.
2. Shepherd's Pie
As we've said before, this is the best Irish comfort food going and it's sure to put a smile on the face of any Irish person you know.
3. Corned Beef and Cabbage Pasta Bake
All right, so the IrishCentral readers liked a pasta bake out of all the hundreds of recipes on this site, but it might just be their sensible streak showing. After you've cooked for all your friends, cousins and extended family, you're bound to be left with a pile of leftovers.
What to do, what to do! Pasta!
4. Potatoes treats
What Irish person doesn't like potatoes!? But it seems that the Irish palate is getting a little more sophisticated. Above Colcannon and Boxty, IrishCentral readers have voted "Potato cheesy ale and cheddar colcannon" and "Bacon and cheese quiche with potato crust" their top potato treats.
5. Corned Beef and Cabbage Spring Rolls
Chef Michael Gilligan came up with this one and it really took off. He also does a very good job at explaining the place of corned beef and cabbage in the Irish diet. Although it's Irish meets Chinese food it seems to us like this would really work.
6. Irish Stew with Guinness
Meat? Check. Vegetables? Check. Guinness? Check. What's not to like about this delicious, nurturing Irish meal.
7. Hearty St. Patrick's Day Sandwich
So this is essentially an Italian meal but it seems the color scheme alone was enough to entice you guys. It's also a smart move to have a nice big breakfast before a day of revelry.
8. Traditional Irish Butter Shortbread Cheesecake
No one makes a cheesecake like an Irish mammy and this recipe replicates my own mother's well. This is one to show off at a dinner party or just to make and remember home.
9. Roast Leg of Lamb
This is definitely a favorite Irish Sunday dinner and a perfect big meal for any event at the start of spring. Delicious with mint sauce and roast potatoes. I wholeheartedly agree with the readers choice on this one.
10. Irish Tricolor Cookies
They're green, white, and orange, what more do you want? These are the cookies that will match your face, clothes, and flag for St. Patrick's Day but are fun to eat all year around.
*Originally published in 2013.]]>
The Shamrock
Derived from the Irish word seamróg, meaning 'little clover,' shamrock refers to young sprigs of clover. It was coined by Edmund Campion, an English scholar in 1571 when he wrote of the 'wild Irish' people eating the plant. In fact, the Irish at that time included wood-sorrel as a herb in their diet, which looked quite similar to clover.
It is popularly believed that St. Patrick once used the clover in his preaching to symbolize the Christian Holy Trinity, although the first written account of this does not appear until Caleb Threlkeld wrote about it in 1726.
The clover was a sacred plant of the Irish Druids, due to the cluster of its three heart-shaped leaves. Three was a sacred number in Irish mythology, perhaps inspiring St. Patrick to 'Christianize' it in his teachings.
The Metrical Dindshenchas, a collection of ancient poems dating back to 11th century, known as 'the lore of places', indicates that the shamrock was important long before the arrival of St. Patrick.
Teltown (in Irish Tailten, named for Tailltiu who was Lugh Lámhfhada's foster mother) was described as a plane covered in blossoming clover. Brigid founded her religious order in Co. Kildare (in Irish Cill Darra, meaning 'church of the oak') in a blossom-covered clover field. These beautiful meadows were called St. Brigid's Pastures, 'in which no plow is ever suffered to turn a furrow.' It was said that, although cattle were allowed to graze there from morning till night, the next day the clover remained as luxuriant as ever.
In later times it became traditional for Irish men to wear the shamrock in their hats on St. Patrick's Day.
After mass, they would visit the local drinking establishment to 'drown the shamrock' in 'St. Patrick's Pot.' This involved placing their shamrock in the last beverage of the day, draining the glass, then picking out the shamrock and tossing it over their left shoulder.
During the 18th century, the shamrock became popular as a national emblem worn by members of the Irish Volunteers, local warbands raised to defend Ireland against the threat of Spanish and French invasion.
Now, every year on St. Patrick's Day, the Irish Taoiseach presents a Waterford crystal bowl featuring a shamrock design containing shamrocks to the US President in the White House.
The Shillelagh
From the Irish sail éille (shee-lay-lee), meaning 'cudgel with a strap,' the shillelagh is a stick traditionally made from blackthorn or oak. Wood taken from the root was preferred, as it was considerably harder and less likely to split.
The stick would have been coated in lard or butter and placed inside a chimney to 'cure,' thus giving it its black shiny surface. It would normally have a large knob at the top for a handle.
Although often thought of as a walking stick, the shillelagh was actually a weapon used in the art of Bataireacht (Bat-er-akt), an ancient Irish martial art, and means 'stick fighting.' It evolved over the centuries from spear, staff, ax and sword combat, and prior to the 19th century, was used to train Irish soldiers in sword fighting techniques. There were three types; short, medium and long, and it was used to strike, parry and disarm an opponent. It was considered a gentlemanly way of settling a dispute.
The Leprechaun
Known in Irish as the leipreachán, this mischievous little fellow is usually depicted as an old man, about 3ft tall, with red hair and beard, dressed in a dapper green or red coat and hat.
He makes shoes and hides his gold coins in a pot at the end of the rainbow. He is said to be intelligent, cunning and devious, a comical figure who loves practical jokes, a creature neither good nor evil.
As a fairy being, he is thought to be associated with the Tuatha de Denann, however, there is no mention of such a character in Sidhe or Denann mythology. It is more likely that he has arisen out of local folklore and superstition. Despite his enormous popularity, there is little known about his origins.
Ali Isaac lives in beautiful rural Co Cavan in Ireland, and is the author of two books based on Irish mythology, "Conor Kelly and The Four Treasures of Eirean," and "Conor Kelly and The Fenian King." Ali regularly posts on topics of Irish interest on her blog, www.aliisaacstoryteller.com
* Originally published in March 2015.]]>
People certainly visit New Orleans for the fantastic entertainment on offer throughout the year. Mardi Gras may descend on the city only once a year but there is so much more on offer. A visit to the French Quarter is quite something to behold.
One thing The Big Easy isn't lacking is an abundance of lively pubs, especially Irish pubs. You can't visit anywhere without coming across some form of an Irish pub and New Orleans is no different. What could be better than sitting in a subtropical surrounding sipping on a beautifully-poured Guinness? Probably lots of stuff but it's still pretty great.
Erin Rose
Located just steps away from Bourbon Street in the cities famous French Quarter is this snug little Irish pub. It describes and promotes itself as a local for locals, making it a fan favorite with, you guessed it, the locals! Fancy something cool and refreshing in that blisstering Louisiana sunshine, then why not try their iced Irish coffee.
The Erin Rose is a bar that likes to offer that little bit of extra craftsmanship at a low price. Their food menu is courtesy of one New Orleans most recognizable names 'The Killer Poboys' which is located in the rear of the pub. Just like the city it is part of, the Erin Rose is a top pick for music and entertainment every night of the week.
The Irish House
The Irish House is a traditional Irish Pub with a couple of wonderful extra features that make it a must see when you visit this historic city. Located just off the Mississippi River which flows through the city, this Irish pub offers more than just great food but also an unforgettable experience. The pub hosts music every Monday night as well as weekly whiskey tastings.
You can also have a sit down meal with the head chef where you will be wined and dined with hand crafted dishes picked by the chef himself at a private table with your own private Guinness and Harp taps. The Irish House also offers something that not many other Irish pubs in New Orleans tend to offer, a legitimate full Irish breakfast with all the fixins. The pub is also home to the Irish Heritage Shop located at the entrance where visitors can buy some home favorites like Barry's Tea and Tayto crisps, as well as other gifts and memorabilia from the old country.
Finn McCool's Irish Pub
This Irish pub has nearly as much legendary status as the Irish folklore hero from which its name is derived. Finn McCools is consistently voted one of New Orleans 'Best Neighborhood Bars'. It has played a huge part in the local community since opening its doors in 2002. In 2005 it was one of the many businesses affected by the devastating Hurricane Katrina which rocked the entire city.
Fortunately with the help of customers and the community at large Finn McCools was able to reopen in 2006. The Irish pub is heavily involved with local sports teams and organises many fundraising activities, which leaves no questions as to why this is one of New Orleans favorite spots. Of course they offer up some of the finest cuisine the city has to offer but if it is a drink you're after then visitors won't be disappointed. Since reopening in 2006 the pub has received awards for 'Best Bartender in New Orleans'.
Ryan's Irish Pub
This is one of New Orleans more relaxed haunts in the city's famed French Quarter. After walking through the hustle and bustle of one of New Orleans busiest areas, Ryan's Irish Pub will offer visitors the perfect place to chill.
For all the ice hockey fans in New Orleans, which may seem like an odd place for fanbase, Ryan's is your number one place to catch all the games. The self proclaimed 'Best f@#king Irish pub in the world' may not offer food but it does offer cheap drinks and a heartwarming Irish coffee.
Kerry Irish Pub
The Kerry Irish Pub is one of the French Quarter's most lively pubs serving up live music seven nights a week at no charge, but I'm sure visitors will make it up with some fine sociable beverages. With no food being served visitors will have to satisfy themselves by other means, with the Kerry Irish Pub offering some of the best Guinness in New Orleans which is sure to quench the most stern of appetites.
The bar itself is low key with a dive bar feel. As you walk in visitors may think this place is made of money, literally. The pub is filled with memorabilia and decorated with dollar bills from the many customers that have walked through the doors of this local favorite. It was also the location for scenes of the HBO drama, Treme.
Fahy's Irish Pub
This is another one of the more chill pubs located just away from the chaos that can take over Bourbon Street, one of the more wild places in the city. This low key bar offers customers the basics at a fantastic price. People can order some of the Irish classics or a few tasty craft beers.
The pub doesn't offer any live music but there is still plenty of entertainment to be had. Customers can relax with a game of darts or pool on one of the many tables. If that doesn't appeal to you then what's better than being able to have a meaningful conversation among friends in one of the cosy corners of the pub. Fahy's Irish Pub are famed for their cocktail, the 'Mind Eraser' which is customary to be had with a couple of straws in one glass as you race to the bottom of the drink. Aren't customs wonderful.
Happy's Irish Pub
With a name like 'Happy's' this Irish pub surely can't be bad. This colorful Irish pub is located en route to the Mercedes-Benz Superdome and Smoothie King Center and is a favorite among Saints and Pelican fans. This pub offers something to entice customers seven nights a week. Whether it's live music or one of the many drink specials each night, there is something for everyone. For everyone who wishes it could be Saint Patrick's Day everyday then Happy's Irish Pub may have what you're looking for. Not only does the pub go all out on Paddy's Day but it gets people prepared for it the 17th of every other month with 'St. Practice Day', offering similar deals and atmosphere.
Molly's Irish Pub
This Irish pub is a favorite among service industry workers and anyone else who wants to get away from the crowds on Bourbon Street. This is the quintessential dive bar, even equipped with the low lighting to really drive the point home. But don't let this fool you, this pub retains a lot of charm.
If cheap drinks and a relaxed atmosphere are what you're after then Molly's Irish Pub is for you. For anyone looking for a late night bar, Molly's closes at 6am, so maybe don't order that decaf at dinner before visiting this pub. Anyone from Ireland can testify to the pain of pubs closing early, with many bars at home closing as early as 11:30pm during the week.
Pat O'Brien's Irish Pub
One of the most famous pubs in New Orleans, Pat O'Brien's has become an institution among locals and tourists alike. Known for their speciality cocktails, this bar has gained notoriety for their famed 'Hurricane' beverage served in a signature Pat O'Brien's glass, and has been crafted and perfected since it was first invented during the 1940's.
Pat O'Brien's mantra is 'Have Fun', which is certainly what they hope visitors achieve through the fantastic atmosphere and vibe of this bar. The pub is a mix of locals and tourists, who get treated to entertainment every night which includes dueling pianos playing a variety of musical genres. Pat O'Brien's also offers a photo service so visitors can get pictures developed or downloaded and cherish their experience in the pub.
Tracey's Original Irish Channel Bar
Tracey's Original Irish Channel Bar is located near the edge of the Irish Channel neighborhood of New Orleans. The area is originally the location of where Irish immigrants settled during the 1830's, making it one of the original settlements for Irish in America. Describing itself as the 'working man's bar' Tracey's has been a favorite among locals since it originally opened in 1949.
Serving up cold beer and great food it is easy to figure out why Tracey's has been flourishing for over half a century, the owners may have changed but the philosophy has remained. If you plan on visiting during the NFL season then people will find this pub filled to capacity during any New Orleans Saints game so get those orders of alligator po-boys and spicy wings in early.
Mick's Irish Pub
This is one for the ladies, in the sense that in Mick's Irish Pub every night is ladies night. But of course all are welcome each night to partake in the fun this pub has to offer. The owners have changed over the years as well as the name but this bar has been welcoming locals for over half a century.
One of the earlier versions of this pub included a hair salon where women would get their hair preened while men waited in the accompanying bar. Nowadays this is your run of the mill Irish bar with great beer, free food during weekdays and even classic games. Take a stroll down memory lane with arcade games or test your nerve with shuffleboard and giant jenga.
Have you ever experienced the southern soul that is New Orleans?]]>
'Slán go deo' means 'goodbye for ever'.
Read more: Historic Irish blessings for you and your loved ones
* Originally published in 2013.]]>
However, according to a Nielsen survey carried out in 2015, St. Patrick's Day is far down the list on the most beer-soaked days on the American calendar.
Yesterday, Cinco de Mayo, which marks the day Mexico defeated the French army in the Battle of Puebla in 1862, ranks ahead of St. Patrick's Day in beer consumption.
Indeed, it seems that many other holidays are being equally, if not more so, appropriated as drinking days.
Topping the list are Labor Day, the Fourth of July, and Father's Day. Cinco de Mayo ranks fifth, St. Patrick's Day tenth, and Super Bowl Sunday eleventh.
H/T: Washington Times.]]>
Here's to you and your friends and family.
May the Irish hills caress you.
May her lakes and rivers bless you.
May the luck of the Irish enfold you.
May the blessings of Saint Patrick behold you.
May there always be work for your hands to do,
May your purse always hold a coin or two.
May the sun always shine warm on your windowpane,
May a rainbow be certain to follow each rain.
May the hand of a friend always be near you,
And may God fill your heart with gladness to cheer you.
May those who love us love us.
And those that don't love us,
May God turn their hearts.
And if He doesn't turn their hearts,
May he turn their ankles,
So we'll know them by their limping.
The reason the Irish are always fighting each other
Is they have no other worthy opponents.
May you live as long as you want,
And never want as long as you live.
May your glass be ever full.
May the roof over your head be always strong.
And may you be in heaven half an hour before the devil knows you're dead.
Here's to a fellow who smiles
When life runs along like a song.
And here's to the lad who can smile
When everything goes dead wrong.
May the Good Lord take a liking to you,
... but not too soon!
An old Irish recipe for longevity:
Leave the table hungry.
Leave the bed sleepy.
Leave the bar thirsty.
Always remember to forget
The things that made you sad.
But never forget to remember
The things that made you glad
As you slide down the banister of life,
May the splinters never point the wrong way.
Always remember to forget
The troubles that passed away.
But never forget to remember
The blessings that come each day.
If you're enough lucky to be Irish...
You're lucky enough!
Read more: What Irish phrases you need to learn before you visit Ireland
Tis better to buy a small bouquet
And give to your friend this very day,
Than a bushel of roses white and red
To lay on his coffin after he's dead.
May the blessings of each day
Be the blessings you need most.
Life is like a cup of tea,
it's all in how you make it!
We cannot share this sorrow
If we haven't grieved a while.
Nor can we feel another's joy
Until we've learned to smile.
I complained that I had no shoes
Until I met a man who had no feet.
St. Patrick was a gentleman
Who through strategy and stealth
Drove all the snakes from Ireland.
Here's toasting to his health.
But not too many toastings
Lest you lose yourself and then
Forget the good St. Patrick
And see all those snakes again.
May the enemies of Ireland never meet a friend.
For the test of the heart is trouble
And it always comes with years.
And the smile that is worth the praises of earth
Is the smile that shines through the tears.
What is Irish diplomacy?
It's the ability to tell a man to go to hell,
So that he will look forward to making the trip.
An Irish method for tackling problems:
There comes a time when you must take the bull
By the tail and face the situation squarely.
May the leprechauns be near you,
To spread luck along your way.
And may all the Irish angels,
Smile upon you St. Patrick's Day.
May the joys of today
Be those of tomorrow.
The goblets of life
Hold no dregs of sorrow.
May the saddest day of your future be no worse
Than the happiest day of your past.
Health and a long life to you.
Land without rent to you.
A child every year to you.
And if you can't go to heaven,
May you at least die in Ireland.
May you have:
No frost on your spuds,
No worms on your cabbage.
May your goat give plenty of milk.
And if you inherit a donkey,
May she be in foal.
May you live long,
Die happy,
And rate a mansion in heaven.
May the road rise to meet you.
May the wind be always at your back.
May the sun shine warm upon your face.
And rains fall soft upon your fields.
And until we meet again,
May God hold you in the hollow of His hand.
May the luck of the Irish possess you.
May the devil fly off with your worries.
May God bless you forever and ever.
Ireland, sir, for good or evil,
No other place under Heaven.
And no man can touch its sod
Or breathe its air without becoming
Better or worse.
There are only two kinds of people in the world, The Irish
And those who wish they were.
You're not as young as you used to be.
You're not as old as you're going to be.
So watch it!
Do not resent growing old.
Many are denied the privilege.
May the Lord keep you in His hand
And never close His fist too tight.
Murphy's Law:
Nothing is as easy as it looks.
Everything takes longer than you expect.
And if anything can go wrong,
It will at the worst possible moment.
Here's to you and yours
And to mine and ours.
And if mine and ours
Ever come across to you and yours,
I hope you and yours will do
As much for mine and ours
As mine and ours have done
For you and yours!
May the most you wish for
Be the least you get.
May the luck of the Irish
Lead to happiest heights
And the highway you travel
Be lined with green lights.
Grant me a sense of humor, Lord,
The saving grace to see a joke,
To win some happiness from life,
And pass it on to other folk.
Ireland, it's the one place on earth
That heaven has kissed
With melody, mirth,
And meadow and mist.
May your troubles be less
And your blessings be more.
And nothing but happiness
Come through your door.
May your thoughts be as glad as the shamrocks.
May your heart be as light as a song.
May each day bring you bright happy hours,
That stay with you all year long.
For each petal on the shamrock
This brings a wish your way
Good health, good luck, and happiness
For today and every day.
May your heart be warm and happy
With the lilt of Irish laughter
Every day in every way
And forever and ever after.
Now sweetly lies old Ireland
Emerald green beyond the foam,
Awakening sweet memories,
Calling the heart back home.
May the blessings of light be upon you,
Light without and light within.
And in all your comings and goings,
May you ever have a kindly greeting
From them you meet along the road.
Wherever you go and whatever you do,
May the luck of the Irish be there with you.
May you be poor in misfortune,
Rich in blessings,
Slow to make enemies,
And quick to make friends.
But rich or poor, quick or slow,
May you know nothing but happiness
From this day forward.
May the face of every good news
And the back of every bad news
Be toward us.
Like the goodness of the five loaves and two fishes,
Which God divided among the five thousand men,
May the blessing of the King who so divided
Be upon our share of this common meal.
May you have food and raiment,
A soft pillow for your head,
May you be forty years in heaven
Before the devil knows you're dead.
The health of all Ireland
and of County Mayo,
And when that much is dead,
may we still be on the go.
From the County of Meath,
the health of the hag.
Not of her but her drink
is the reason we brag.
Your health one and all,
from one wall to the other,
And you outside there
speak up, brother!
May brooks and trees and singing hills
Join in the chorus, too.
And every gentle wind that blows
Send happiness to you.
May the strength of three be in your journey.
May peace and plenty be the first
To lift the latch on your door,
And happiness be guided to your home
By the candle of Christmas.
May your right hand always
Be stretched out in friendship
And never in want.
May there be a generation of children
On the children of your children.
May there be a fox on your fishing hook
And a hare on your bait
And may you kill no fish
Until St. Brigid's Day.
May you live all the days of your life.
– Jonathan Swift
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
Here's that we may always have
A clean shirt
A clean conscience
And a punt in our pocket.
May you live to be a hundred years,
With one extra year to repent!
May I see you gray
And combing your grandchildren's hair.
May your neighbors respect you,
Trouble neglect you,
The angels protect you,
And heaven accept you.
Mothers [fathers] hold their children's hands for just a little while...
And their hearts forever.
"It is better to spend money like there's no tomorrow
than to spend tonight like there's no money."
-P.J. O'Rourke
Here's to a long life and a merry one.
A quick death and an easy one.
A pretty girl and an honest one.
A cold beer-and another one!
May the grass grow long on the road to Hell for want of use.
Here's health to your enemies' enemies!
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're going too far.
Health and a long life to you.
Land without rent to you.
A child every year to you.
And if you can't go to heaven,
May you at least die in Ireland.
Bless you and yours
As well as the cottage you live in.
May the roof overhead be well thatched
And those inside be well matched.
May you always come more than you go.
Here's to you, as good as you are.
Here's to me as bad as I am.
As good as you are and as bad as I am,
I'm as good as you are, as bad as I am.
May you have warm words on a cold evening,
a full moon on a dark night,
and a smooth road all the way to your door.
May you be poor in misfortune,
rich in blessings,
slow to make enemies,
quick to make friends.
But rich or poor, quick or slow,
may you know nothing but happiness
from this day forward.
A Merry Christmas this December
To a lot of folks I don't remember.
Bottoms up or bottoms down,
Either way no one will frown.
-Mike Anderson
May the leprechauns dance over your bed and bring you sweet dreams.
Experience is the comb that life gives a bald man.
May the wind always be at your back
May you be at the gates of heaven an hour before the devil knows your dead!
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.
– Frank Masterson
Here's to it and for it and do it again.
For those that get to it
And refuse to do it,
May never get to it
To do it again.
There are good ships and there are wood ships,
the ships that sail the sea.
But the best ships are friendships,
and may they always be.
O b'ido hocai, is deoch deas e sin
– Donaill Mac Bruan
Good health, good life, good beer!
– Ed Quigley
May the most you wish for is the least you get!
– Jay O Brain
Here's to our wives,
and here's to our sweethearts,
may the two never meet!
May the road rise up before you,
and the wind be always at your back,
and the good Lord hold you in the hollow of his hands.
Every man is sociable until a cow invades his garden.
May you always have money in your pocket
a woman to love
and a smile on your face.
May those who love us, love us.
And those that don't love us,
May God turn their hearts.
And if He doesn't turn their hearts,
May he turn their ankles.
So we'll know them by their limping.
May you have length with your days,
and strength with your step,
and may each season have a reason
to celebrate your faith in mankind!
To live above with the Saints we love,
Ah, that is the purest glory.
To live below with the Saints we know,
Ah, that is another story.
May the wind you break always blow down wind.
Always remember that hindsight is the best insight to foresight.
May the hinges of our friendship never grow rusty!
May all your troubles be little ones
and all your little ones be trouble free.
The words that I've said I meant when I spoke
and remember my words of wisdom
feck'em if you can't take a joke.
-Brian O'Toole
Perfection is something that cannot be achieved,
it is something that we strive for.
-Jara McKee
A man's best friend is his mother until he meets his wife.
Here's to Hell!
May the stay there be as fun as the way there!
May there be spring enough in your life
to outlast the winters;
May there be guitars (and drums) enough
to lift your spirits whenever you need it;
May you be gentle enough to comfort those who are hurting,
But revolutionary enough to bring heaven to those who need it now.
May there always be a leprechaun near you
to bring out laughter and dance and the child in you.
And may God always have room enough for you in the palm of his hand!
– Donated by Gregory Hicks
What do they all have in common? These top names in the US all have Irish roots.
For example, the trendy name "Aidan" is the Anglicization of the Gaelic word Aodhán, meaning "little fire," while "Kayla" is a modern creation inspired by the Irish man's name Cadhla, meaning "slender."
If you're an expectant parent looking for an Irish name, or if you just want to figure out what your own name means, you've come to the right place.
We've done all the hard work of gathering the top Irish names in America into one place. All you have to do is sit back and choose one, or two ...
Ryan: Anglicization of the Irish surname Ó Ríain, meaning "descendent of the little king."
Brandon: Anglicization of Breanainn, which possibly means "sword." Also, an English surname meaning "hill top."
Logan: From the Irish surname O'Loughan, often mistranslated to mean "duck," which is actually from the Gaelic word "lacha."
Austin: Anglicization of the name Aghaistín, the Irish form of Augustine, a Latin name meaning "great" or "magnificent."
Kevin: Anglicization of the Irish name Caoimhín, meaning "beautiful birth."
Connor: Modern form of the Irish name Conchobhar, meaning "dog lover." Usually spelled Conor in Ireland.
Kyle: Anglicization of the Irish word "coill" meaning "woods." More commonly used in Scotland, where it is from a place name meaning "narrow."
Aidan: Anglicization of Aodhán, meaning "little fire."
Brian: Anglicization of the Irish name Brion, meaning "noble."
Sean: Irish form of John, which means "gift from God."
Owen: Usually a Welsh name. It can be an Anglicization of the Irish names Eoin ( a form of John) and Eoghan, meaning "born of the yew."
Cody: Anglicization of the Irish surname of Norman origin, Mac Óda, meaning "descendant of Otto."
Patrick: Ireland's patron saint's name, which is Latin for "noble." Padraic is the Irish variant.
Brayden: Anglicization of the Irish surname Ó Bradaoin, meaning "salmon."
Tristan: Celtic name whose meaning has been debated, but possibly means "tumult," or "uproar."
Colin: Can be either an Anglicization of Coilean, an Irish name meaning "whelp," or Cóilín, an Irish short form of Nicholas.
Riley: Riley is an English surname meaning "rye field," or an Anglicization of the Irish surname O'Reilly, or Ó Raghaillaigh, meaning "descendant of Raghaillaigh," an Irish chieftain.
Liam: Shortened form of Uilliam, the Irish form of William, a Germanic name made of two words meaning "desire" and "protection."
Caden: Anglicization of the Irish surname MacAodháin, or possibly a name from the Irish name Cathán, meaning "battle."
Oscar: Anglicization of Osgar, meaning "deer lover."
Brady: A name meaning "spirited," and an Anglicization of the Irish surname Ó Bradaigh.
Alan: Anglicization of the Irish name Ailín, meaning "handsome."
Brendan: Anglicization of Breandán/Breannain, a major Irish saint, meaning "prince."
Nolan: Anglicization of the Irish surname Ó Nualláin from "nuall," which means "nobleman."
Donovan: Celtic name meaning "strong fighter."
Corey: Anglicization of the Irish surname Mac Gothraidh, from a place name meaning "hill hollow."
Brody: Usually Scottish, this name can also be an Anglicization of the Irish surname Mac Bruaideadha, which comes from an Irish place name meaning "ditch."
Miles: Anglicization of "Maol," the beginning of Irish names, meaning "devotee of (insert saint here)."
Griffin: Usually a Welsh name, but it can be an Anglicization of the Irish name Críofán or of the Irish surname Ó Gríobhtha, meaning "descendant of the griffin-like."
Keegan: Anglicization of the Irish surname Mac Aodhgáin, "Aodhagán" meaning "small and passionate," or "fiery."
Read more: These Irish baby names are about to become super trendy
Brennan: Anglicization of the Irish surname Ó Braonáin, meaning "descendant of Braonáin." "Braonáin" can mean "sorrow."
Quinn: Anglicization of the Irish surname Ó Cuinn, meaning "descendant of Conn." "Conn" means "leader" or "chief."
Micheal: Irish form of Michael, meaning "Who is like God."
Declan: Form of the name Deaglán, an Irish saint's name of obscure meaning.
Dorian: Although it is based on the name Dora, which has no Irish roots, the name was coined by Irish playwright Oscar Wilde for his book, "The Portrait of Dorian Gray."
Brianna: Modern feminine form of Brian, an Anglicization of the Irish name Brion, meaning "noble."
Kayla: Even though it's probably a modern creation, it is similar to the Irish male name Cadhla, meaning "slender."
Anna: Typically considered a Latin name, but Ana is also an ancient Celtic goddess known as the "Wealth Provider."
Megan: Though technically, not a Celtic name (it's a Welsh pet form of Margaret), it's similar to the Irish surname O'Meegan, meaning "descendant of the brave warrior."
Kaitlyn: American form of the Irish Caitlín (Irish version of Catherine).
Makayla: Another modern creation possibly stemming from the Irish man's name "Cadhla," meaning slender.
Kaylee: This name is a modern invention based on the names Kay and Lee, but it also sounds like "céilí," the Irish word for a gathering.
Kylie: Usually considered an Australian Aboriginal name meaning "boomerang," but like the name Kayla, it's also a form of Kiley, an Anglicization of the Irish name Cadhla, meaning "slender."
Read more: Irish baby name among top ones to watch in 2017
Riley: Riley is an English surname meaning "rye field" or an Anglicization of the Irish surname O'Reilly, or Ó Raghaillaigh, meaning from "descendant of Raghaillaigh," an Irish chieftain.
Erin: A poetic name for Ireland. The name is not usually used in Ireland, but it's recently gained popularity in the North.
Claire: This is a French name meaning "clear," but "Clare," an alternate spelling, is a county in Ireland.
Molly: Irish pet form of Mary, or Mallaidh in Irish, that means "star of the sea."
Kennedy: Anglicization of the Irish surname Ó Cinnéide, meaning "helmet head."
Kelly: Anglicization of the Irish surname "Ó Ceallaigh," which possibly means "brave warrior."
Cassidy: Anglicization of the Irish surname Ó Casaide, which has an obscure meaning, but may translate to "clever" or "curly-headed."
Ashlyn: Anglicization of the Irish name Aislinn (or Aisling), meaning "dream" or "vision."
Kiara: Form of Ciara, pronounced "KEE a ra," an Irish name meaning "dark." Often pronounced "see-Ahr-a" in the U.S.
Reagan: Anglicization of the Irish surname Ó Ríagáin, which comes from "sovereign" or "king."
Delaney: Anglicization of the Irish surname "Ó Dubhshláine, meaning "descendant of the dark-haired man of the River Slaney."
Alana: Feminine form of the name Alan, which means "handsome." Also an Anglicization of "a leanbh," an Irish term of endearment meaning "O child."
Mckenna: Anglicization of the Irish surname MacCionnaith, interpreted as both "ardent love" and "fire sprung."
Brenda: Feminine form of the Irish name Brendan, an Anglicization of the Irish saint Breandán/Breannain whose name means "prince."
Shannon: Area and river in Ireland that possibly means "little wise one."
Kara: Form of Cara, the Irish word for "friend."
Kira: Another Anglicization of Ciara, an Irish name meaning "dark."
Kathleen: Another Anglicization of the Irish Caitlín, a form of Catherine.
Bridget: From the Irish name Brighid, meaning "exalted one." St. Brigid is a patron saint of Ireland.
Patricia: This is the feminine form of Patrick, Ireland's patron saint's name, which is Latin for "noble."
Shayla: Modern Anglicization of the Irish name Síle, meaning "blind." Also Anglicized as "Sheila."
Tara: Anglicization of the old Irish name Teamhair, which means "eminence" or "distinction." Also the name of the ancient hill in Co. Meath that was the center of pagan activity.
Brenna: Modern feminine form of the name Brennan, an Anglicization of the Irish surname Ó Braonáin, that can mean "sorrow."
Logan: From the Irish surname O'Loughan, often mistranslated to mean "duck," which is actually from the Gaelic word "lacha."
Fiona: An Irish name (spelled Fíona) pronounced as "Feena," meaning "vine."
Ryan: Feminine Anglicization of the Irish surname Ó Ríain, meaning "descendent of the little king."
Aileen: Anglicization of the Irish name Aibhilín/Eibhilín, an Irish form of Evelyn or Helen which can mean "bright light."
Read more: What Irish name has been among the top baby names for 100 years?
* Originally published in 2013.]]>
This simple recipe is an ideal one to make with the kids. The word colcannon is from the Gaelic "cal ceannann," which literally means "white-headed cabbage."
In the past, charms were mixed in with the colcannon. Depending on what charm you found it was seen as a portent for the future. A button meant you would remain a bachelor and a thimble meant you would remain a spinster for the coming year. A ring meant you would get married and a coin meant you would come into wealth. Others filled their socks with colcannon and hung them from the handle of the front door in the belief that the first man through the door would be their future husband.
Colcannon Recipe
4 lbs (1.8kg) potatoes, or about 7-8 large potatoes ('old' potatoes or russet potatoes are best, waxy potatoes won't do)
1 head of green cabbage or kale
1 cup ( 7 fl oz, 240 ml) milk (or cream)
1 stick (4oz, 120g) butter, divided into three parts
4-5 scallions (green onions), chopped*
Salt and pepper
Fresh Parsley or chives
*Not everyone adds scallions to colcannon, but they do add something, in my opinion.
Peel and put them in a pot to boil.
While the potatoes are cooking, remove the core from the cabbage, slice the leaves thinly, and put into a large saucepan. Cover with boiling water from the kettle and keep at a slow rolling boil until the cabbage is just wilted and has turned a darker green. This can take anything from 3-5 minutes, depending on the cabbage. Test it and don't let it overcook - if anything it should be slightly undercooked.
When the cabbage is cooked, drain it well, squeeze to get any excess moisture out, then return to the saucepan. Add one-third of the butter and cover. Leave it covered and in a warm place, but not on a burner, with the butter melting gently into it while you continue.
When the potatoes are soft, drain the water and return the potatoes to the saucepan. With the drained potatoes in, set the burner to low, leaving the lid off so that any excess moisture can evaporate. When they are perfectly dry, add the milk to the saucepan, along with a third of the butter and the chopped scallions (if you are using them). Allow the milk to warm but not boil – it is about right when the butter has fully melted and the pot is starting to steam.
With a potato masher or a fork, mash the potatoes thoroughly into the butter/milk mixture. Do NOT pass through a ricer or, worse, beat in a mixer as it will make the potatoes gluey and disgusting.
Mix the cabbage thoroughly through the mashed potato.
Before serving, season with a little salt and sprinkle with fresh parsley or chives. Most importantly, make a well in the center of the mound of potato and put the last third of the butter in there to melt.
Source: DoChara.com]]>
According to Edward T. O'Donnell, an Associate Professor of History at Holy Cross College and author of "1001 Things Everyone Should Know About Irish American History," the term is not Irish in origin.
"During the gold and silver rush years in the second half of the 19th century, a number of the most famous and successful miners were of Irish and Irish American birth....Over time this association of the Irish with mining fortunes led to the expression 'luck of the Irish.' Of course, it carried with it a certain tone of derision, as if to say, only by sheer luck, as opposed to brains, could these fools succeed."
Read more: What Irish phrases you need to learn before you visit Ireland
The word luck itself is Middle Dutch in origin, according to Mental Floss. The word comes from 'luc,' a shortening of 'gheluc,' meaning "happiness, good fortune."
The word was probably introduced into the English language in the 15th century as a gambling term.
Have you ever felt that you've had the luck of the Irish? Tell us all about your lucky story in the comments section, below.
For more stories from our St. Patrick's Day section, click here.]]>
"The Irish Rover"
A traditional Irish song about a magnificent, though improbable sailing ship that reaches an unfortunate end. One that is only sung after many a beer is consumed and Irish people get nostalgic. Some may end up in tears.
Sing along now:
"On the fourth of July eighteen hundred and six,
We set sail from the sweet cove of Cork,
We were sailing away with a cargo of bricks,
For the grand city hall in New York,
'Twas a wonderful craft, she was rigged fore-and-aft,
And oh, how the wild winds drove her.
She'd got several blasts, she'd 27 masts,
And we called her the Irish Rover…"
"A Nation Once Again"
This top ten song was written in the early to mid-1840s by Thomas Osborne Davis. Davis was the founder of the Young Ireland, a movement that led changes in Irish nationalism.
The song is a prime example of the "Irish rebel music" sub-genre (though it does not celebrate fallen Irish freedom fighters by name or cast aspersions on the British government as so many rebel songs do).
Sing along now:
"When boyhood's fire was in my blood,
I read of ancient freemen,
For Greece and Rome who bravely stood,
Three hundred men and three men;
And then I prayed I yet might see,
Our fetters rent in twain,
And Ireland, long a province, be?A Nation once again…!"
"The Boys of the Old Brigade"
An Irish Republican folk song about the Irish Republican Army in the Irish War of Independence. The title is borrowed from the older (but different) military song, a slow march that is always played at the annual Festival of Remembrance when the Chelsea Pensioners file in. ("Then steadily shoulder to shoulder, steadily blade by blade, marching along, hearty and strong, like the boys of the old brigade").
Sing along now:
"Oh, father why are you so sad
On this bright Easter morn'
When Irish men are proud and glad
Of the land where they were born?
Oh, son, I see in mem'ry's view
A far off distant day
When being just a lad like you
I joined the IRA…."
"Arthur McBride"
In this song, the narrator and his cousin Arthur McBride, both Irish, were taking a walk when they were approached by three British military recruiters, a recruiting sergeant, a corporal and a drummer. The recruiters attempt to induce the narrator and Arthur McBride into military service, extolling the virtues of serving the King of England, having money to spend, and wearing nice clothes.
Sing along now:
"I had a first cousin called Arthur McBride,
He and I went a walkin' down by the seaside;
In search of good fortune and what might betide,
It was just as the day was a'dawnin.'"
"Come Out Ye Black and Tans"
An Irish rebel song referring to the Black and Tans, the British paramilitary police auxiliary force in Ireland during the 1920s. The song was written by Dominic Behan as a tribute to his father Stephen; authorship of the song is often attributed to Stephen. The melody was adapted from an old air used for the Loyalist song "Boyne Water" as well as several other songs in English and Irish.
Sing along now:
"Oh, come out you black and tans,
Come out and fight me like a man,
Show your wife how you won medals down in Flanders,
Tell her how the IRA made you run like hell away,
From the green and lovely lanes in Killeshandra…."
"Some Say the Devil is Dead"
This top ten most popular song from Ireland is a satirical one about the British Army written by Derek Warfield. He is an Irish singer, songwriter, historian, and a founding member of the musical group the Wolfe Tones.
Sing along now:
"Some say the devil is dead, the devil is dead, the devil is dead,
Some say the devil is dead and buried in Killarney.
More say he rose again, more say he rose again, more say he rose again,
And joined the British Army…."
"Molly Malone"
This popular song, set in Dublin, Ireland, has become the unofficial anthem of Dublin City. It has also acquired the status of an Irish anthem.
The Molly Malone statue on Grafton Street was unveiled by then Lord Mayor of Dublin, Alderman Ben Briscoe, during the 1988 Dublin Millennium celebrations, declaring June 13 as Molly Malone Day.
The song tells the tale of a beautiful fishmonger who plied her trade on the streets of Dublin, but who died young of a fever. Recently a legend has grown up that there was a historical Molly, who lived in the 17th century. She is typically represented as a hawker by day and part-time prostitute by night.
In contrast, she has also been portrayed as one of the few chaste female street-hawkers of her day.
Sing along now:
"In Dublin's fair city,
where the girls are so pretty,
I first set my eyes on sweet Molly Malone,
As she wheeled her wheel-barrow,
Through streets broad and narrow,
Crying, "Cockles and mussels, alive, alive, oh…!"
"Danny Boy"
A ballad usually set to the tune of the "Londonderry Air," it is most closely associated with Irish communities. "Danny Boy" was written by the English lawyer and lyricist Frederick Weatherly in 1910. Although the lyrics were originally written for a different tune, Weatherly modified them to fit "Londonderry Air" in 1913 when his sister-in-law in America sent him a copy.
Ernestine Schumann-Heink made the first recording in 1915. Weatherly gave the song to the vocalist Elsie Griffin, who in turn made it one of the most popular songs in the new century. In 1928, Weatherly suggested that the second verse would provide a fitting requiem for the actress Ellen Terry.
And here are the Danny Boy lyrics:
"Oh Danny Boy, the pipes, the pipes are calling,
From glen to glen, and down the mountain side,
The summer's gone, and all the roses falling,
'Tis you, 'tis you must go and I must bide.
But come ye back when summer's in the meadow
Or when the valley's hushed and white with snow…
"The Fields of Athenry"
An Irish folk ballad set during the Great Hunger (1845-1850), it tells the story of a fictional man named Michael from near Athenry in Co. Galway, who has been sentenced to transportation to Botany Bay, Australia, for stealing food for his starving family. It is a widely known and popular anthem for Irish sports supporters and fans of Celtic football.
Sing along now:
"Low lie the fields of Athenry
Where once we watched the small free birds fly
[Hey baby let the free birds fly!]
Our love was on the wing
We had dreams and songs to sing
It's so lonely 'round the fields of Athenry."
And just because this next one is really pretty funny....
"There's No One As Irish As Barack O'Bama"
A song created by a Co. Limerick-based group The Corrigan Brothers (formerly known as Hardy Drew and the Nancy Boys) when it was discovered that the Obama family tree has Irish roots in Moneygall, Co. Offaly. Their song was a huge hit on YouTube and continues to be sung around the word.
Sing along now:
"From Kerry and Cork to old Donegal
Let's hear it for Barack from old Moneygall
From the lakes if Killarney to old Connemara
There's no one as Irish as Barack O'Bama
O'Leary, O'Reilly, O'Hare and O'Hara
There's no one as Irish as Barack O'Bama….."
For more stories from our St. Patrick's Day section, click here.
*Originally published in July 2014.]]>
How to make traditional Irish potato cakes or "boxty"
Is there any Irish person who wouldn't love these?! Tag a potato lover in your life below. Read more about this recipe here: http://irsh.us/2pzPHroPosted by IrishCentral.com on Wednesday, April 19, 2017
1 cup raw, grated potatoes
1 cup leftover mashed potatoes
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 tsp baking powder
2 tsp salt
2 eggs, lightly beaten
1/4 cup (about) milk to mix
Butter or oil for frying
Sugar (optional)
Place the grated raw potatoes in a clean cloth and twist to remove excess moisture.
Whisk together flour, salt, and baking powder.
Combine flour mixture into raw potatoes, mashed potatoes, and eggs.
Add enough mix to make a batter.
Heat a heavy skillet over medium heat and add butter or oil.
Drop potato batter by the tablespoon into the hot pan.
Brown on both sides (about 4 minutes per side).
Butter each boxty and serve hot with or without sugar.
Yield: about 4 servings
* Originally published in March 2014.]]>
1. Reading Seamus Heaney's poetry on a subway poster
You're in a rush, sick to death of the snow and just wanting to get through the journey home and relax. You happen to glance up from your book as you struggle to keep your balance in a packed car, still avoiding eye contact with everybody around you. Just in front of you, plastered on the car wall, is a poem from Seamus Heaney. As you read the words, you forget the hustle and bustle around you, almost forget to look for your stop, as you think of the ways in which our countryman's way with words has spread all over the world.
2. Hearing Irish artists on the radio
Not surprisingly, Hozier's a big deal this side of the Atlantic, too. Not only are we lucky enough to have a traditional music and dance culture that is encouraged and supported in Ireland and abroad, we have made major contributions to the international music scene.
3. Hearing stories from people who've visited Ireland
You may have heard about the beautiful countryside a thousand times over but nobody would be saying it if it wasn't true. Hearing these stories reminds us of the moments we may have forgotten: a big bowl of soup and brown bread in a pub snug on a rainy day, the sun shining on the Liffey as you walk up the quays with a '99, sandy sandwiches on a beach packed on a sunny Sunday afternoon or a hike through the hills on a gusty day.
4. Using Irish on the subway
It makes us stand out, it lets people know that you are part of a different culture and it's also something you have in common with all other nationalities that flock to the city. There's nothing better than being able to use your own secret language to discuss other people on the train. Even if you just have a cúpla focal, being able to throw out an amadán (fool) at the person who rudely barged into you, or a náireach (embarrassing) at the person wearing the exact same dress, makes all the difference.
5. Being asked your opinion on Joyce, Beckett, and Friel
As with Heaney, it makes you wonder how our small country managed to produce such talent. Students of English literature all over the world study the works of Irish authors and playwrights who've made an incredible contribution to the English language. Being asked your expert opinion may seem a little daunting, especially when you may not have read anything at all, but you're guaranteed to be greeted with enthusiasm if you can help others understand the mind of the Irish.
6. A fine Irish bar
Although we may attempt to distance ourselves from the drunken stereotype, if there is one thing we're good at, it's a good pub. Whether you're a pioneer who goes for the social occasion or a drinker who goes to sample every drink on offer, a cozy atmosphere and a place to debate all of the world's problems can always be guaranteed.
7. Seeing the empire state lit in green
New York City alone may have a population almost doubling our whole country's but they still find us important enough to light up one of the city's most iconic buildings in green in our honor. Seeing the green glow on the skyline from your Brooklyn apartment is guaranteed to set your heart alight with pride.
8. Accepting the gay community into our celebrations
This May will mark a very important moment in Irish history. As the country votes on the topic of same-sex marriage, it is telling that it is also the first year that the NYC and Boston parades will allow LGBT groups to take part in festivities. The inclusion of these groups is a step in the direction of equality and inclusion, on a day when we all deserve the right to celebrate Ireland.
9. Seeing people learn traditional instruments/Irish dancing
Many people underestimate how fortunate the Irish are in their ability to maintain their traditional culture while still playing an important role internationally. Many countries suffer from a loss of their cultural heritage as time passes on, especially as the culture of wealthier countries begins to hold dominance over their own. The Irish, on the other hand, are still going strong with dancers and musicians spread to the four corners of the globe.
10. People attempting to copy your accent
As Julie Hecht says in her book Do the Windows Open? "Sometimes everything the Irish said sounded like a poem." Yes, this may be cringe-inducing from time to time but isn't it best to take it as a compliment? Nobody would be attempting to copy the Irish brogue if they didn't like it so much, so instead of turning up your nose at any feeble attempts, teach them a few words that will make sure their Irish lingo is finely tuned.
So tell us! When do you feel #proudtobeIrish – is it something about Irish culture? Irish history? Ireland today? Is there someone in your family or community who makes you especially proud? We can't wait to hear your stories.]]>
Elwood Gutshall III's blood alcohol level was allegedly two and a half times over the legal limit at which you are permitted to drive. The 44-year-old was spotted driving on March 19 and pulled over wearing the lurid green t-shirt.
Gutshall faces a preliminary hearing on May 26.
The slogan 'Drunk Lives Matter' parodies the Black Lives Matters campaigns and plays on the stereotype of the drunken Irishman or woman. A number of websites took heat for selling the t-shirts in the lead-up to St. Patrick's Day.
Read More: This might be the most offensive St. Patrick's Day t-shirt yet
Online reviews of the $19.99 product were scathing, dubbing the t-shirt "offensive" and furthermore sold for an "offensively high price for a disposable bar crawl T-shirt."
One Amazon reviewer wrote, "As an African American I CAN NOT give this any stars but I'm forced to give it one! I can't imagine what would allow you to think this was a good idea to sell!!! What could you be thinking apparently YOU WERE NOT thinking about your African American customers and how much this would hurt them!!! You are selling shirts that make fun of a slogan that has come out of the brutal killings of an entire race of people!!! Congratulations amazon good for you!!! I guess the next thing you will be selling is rope and seedling trees for lynchings. As a long time prime customer, I am deeply hurt and disgusted by this abomination!!!!"
However not everyone was upset and one happy customer declared, "Wore it to a bar crawl. Lot of positive comments. Pretty funny."
It remains to be seen whether Gutshall will wear the offending item to court.
Maguire, from Dundalk, a professional singer, sang out the lyrics to packed St. Patrick's Cathedral and the Facebook reaction was immediate.
Maguire told IrishCentral the reaction has been overwhelming and she looks forward to following up with the numerous appearance requests that have come her way since.
Listen for yourself to a beautiful rendition of one of Ireland's most beautiful hymns.
Read more: Listen to this group of Irish men sing a hauntingly beautiful song]]>
The parade board issued a statement re-iterating its position that those serving in leadership roles on sub-committees have always been members of the board proper. The board's Parade and Celebration Committee, elected by the 180 affiliate groups in November of 2015, is not led by any board members and as such has not played an active part in organizing the last two parades.
That committee was formerly led for decades by John Dunleavy, whose role in parade management was downgraded after a June 2015 board meeting. Dunleavy launched a lawsuit against Lahey later in 2015 alleging all actions of the board since that meeting have been illegal. The lawsuit is still awaiting action in Bronx Supreme Court by Judge Robert Johnson.
The board latest statement said, "The New York City St. Patrick's Day Board of Directors is made up of dedicated volunteers who have spent 20 years or more working on the Parade. The board has worked over the last two years to bring its practices into compliance with the highest and best practices recommended for non-profit organizations, subject to oversight by government officials.
"Among those best practices is that board members serve as chair and vice-chair of all committees. This was the practice for at least 20 years with the Parade and Celebration Committee, where board member John Dunleavy served as chair and Board member John Lahey served as vice chair.
"In addition, about 200 dedicated volunteers work every year on the parade, giving many hours to the planning, preparation, and execution of this event. Without these selfless volunteers, the oldest and largest St. Patrick's Day parade in the world would not be possible. The board looks to this pool of volunteers when it enlists new members."
The board's statement went on to say that two years ago "three individuals presented themselves and said they should head the Parade and Celebration Committee. These individuals are not board members and no one recalls that they ever worked as volunteers on the parade." Those referenced by the board are John Tully, the chairman of the committee; Dennis Grogan, president of the New York County AOH Board; and John Manning, state treasurer of the New York State AOH.
The board said its offer of four seats, first made in April of last year, still stands. Should the offer be accepted, "From this expanded board, a chair and vice chair of the Parade and Celebration Committee can be named and a committee of board members and non-board members can be formed," the board's statement said.
"This proposal addresses the wishes of the affiliated organizations for increased representation; keeps the Board of Directors in compliance with highest and best practices; continues the long tradition of naming board members as chair and vice chair of board committees."
Denis McCarthy, the corresponding secretary for the Parade and Celebration Committee, says the committee will not agree to what they call a "divide and conquer" proposal offered by the board.
In an email exchange with the Irish Voice, McCarthy said, "Instead of seizing the opportunity to heal and unite the Irish community in a spirit of collaboration, Chairman Lahey and his Napoleon agents continue to proselytize a policy of division and authoritarianism. It's a terrible shame the leadership fails to recognize their ploy of divide and conquer has been rejected by ALL umbrella organizations: the UICA, LAOH, Emeralds and AOH.
"The Irish American community and the 180 affiliated organizations have repeatedly spoken – that they want the legally elected officers of the Parade and Celebration Committee to run the parade according to the parade's bylaws – as well as these officers to represent them in the governance of this 256-year legacy.
"It's time for Lahey to recognize that the Bylaws were constructed almost 25 years ago – to prevent this abusive attempt to consolidate power away from the true owners of the parade, the 180 Strong."
The committee also issued an open letter to the Archdiocese of New York and the Irish American community earlier this month which said in part, "This parade also represents the shared egalitarian spirit of our Irish ancestors; forefathers and foremothers who united to form Irish organizations and societies to help one another in charitable need, to promote unity, goodwill, and assistance among the Irish-American people.
"So it is absolutely necessary that the Board of Directors of the St. Patrick's Day parade act within their authority as 'stewards' rather than authoritative owners of a parade that does not belong to them – and restore the parade to its rightful owners!
"It is time the St. Patrick's parade board leadership restore the democratic voice and vote of the affiliated organizations, represented by the democratic election of the Parade Committee, and in so doing; restore the egalitarian spirit and grassroots foundation of our parade's affiliations, who the board has always claimed are 'the very heart and soul of the St. Patrick's Day parade!"
Read more: Stop dyeing Chicago river green for Paddy's Day demand environmentalists]]>
Speaking to Loop North News, Margaret Frisbie, Executive Director of the 6,000-member voluntary group, explained that the river is currently the healthiest it has been in over 150 years. She believes that turning river a shade of radioactive green each year, however, may lead people to believe that the water is as polluted as it once was and prevent any further development in the river as a safe and healthy area.
"We're getting to the point where, perhaps, dying the river green is not the best way to celebrate St. Patrick's Day," said Frisbie, "because we believe that it makes people think that the Chicago River is not as healthy as it actually is."
First started in 1962, before any kind of permit would have been required by authorities in order to place chemical substances into a body of water such as this, Frisbie states that it is unknown what harm the dye could be causing to the environment as the Chicago Journeymen Plumbers, Local 130, who mix in the vegetable dye each year, have never revealed its exact composition.
"Everyone says it's a secret recipe," said Frisbie. "We've never seen a permit for what they put in the river. The way that the rules work is that Illinois [Environmental Protection Agency] is required to give a permit to anybody who discharges into the river – anything. And so, they should have a permit that would mean the Illinois EPA has tested and looked into what is in the dye. And if they haven't done that, then the Illinois EPA is not doing their job."
The tradition has been overseen by the Chicago Journeymen Plumbers since its inception and they do not believe the 45 pounds of vegetable-based dye has any detrimental or polluting effects on the river and its environment.
Nearly 400,000 people line the Chicago River during the city's St. Patrick's Day river-dyeing each year, watching two boats and their teams sift the orange powder into the river sparking the green effect that can last up to a few days, depending on the weather.
The river was also dyed blue last November to celebrate the Cubs World Series championship. The Friends of the Chicago River disagreed with that too.
"We were thrilled that the Cubs won, but it's a terrible precedent to set, that you can dye the river...for whatever occasion suits you," Frisbie continued.
Friends of the Chicago River have acknowledged, however, that it is not a pressing concern of theirs to put a stop to the river-dyeing but rather one they hope will receive more attention as the river's health continues to improve. They do hope to put an end to the practice completely at some point in the future.
The group's aim, since its founding in 1979, is to make the Chicago River one of the world's greatest metropolitan rivers in the world and to improve the health of the Chicago River system for the benefit of people, plants, and animals.
The river contains 70 species of fish and plants, is used by canoeists and kayakers and there is talk of people swimming in the river someday soon. The environmentalist group wish to address the issue of the river dying in the near future to eradicate any issues that may prevent this from taking place or would delay the development and improvement process.
"We need to rethink how we use it," Frisbie stated.
"You think about the comparison of ... the Mississippi River, a wild and scenic river – nobody would ever let them dye it green.
"Maybe it goes out with a big hurrah one day where this is it, we're done, the river is alive, and let's celebrate a new way – and giant green shamrocks made of food coloring and ice melt away into the river rather than a comedy of color – an amusement park theme as opposed to a natural resource."
How do you feel about the St. Patrick's Day tradition in Chicago that turns the river green? Should we be doing more to protect the natural environment or is it a harmless act that should be let continue? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section.
H/T: Curbed.com]]>
Every weekend this month, there are parades in towns and cities across the country. The pipers are piping, the drummers are drumming and the dancing girls with the curls are oh so cute.
But hovering over the parades like a bloated orange cartoon-character float is our president. He has achieved the admittedly not-very-difficult task of setting the Irish against each other.
So, all along parade routes, and at the parties that follow, Irish Americans are advised to avoid the topic of politics. Best to discuss, say, Irish heritage and how important that was to grandma and grandpa and the many other Irish immigrants like them.
Not like these damn immigrants, today.
Huh? What? No! no!
Too late. The fighting has begun.
Maybe it's for the best. Maybe we need a good old rumble, like the one at the end of The Quiet Man, to just get all of the bad blood among Irish Americans out in the open. Because things can't really go on like this much longer.
Recently the president infamously accused President Obama of tapping his phone. Somehow, that was only the second most absurd thing Trump said.
"Irish Americans have made an indelible mark on the United States," the president's long-awaited proclamation on Irish American history month begins. "From Dublin, California, to Limerick, Maine, from Emerald Isle, North Carolina, to Shamrock, Texas, we are reminded of the more than 35 million Americans of Irish descent who contribute every day to all facets of life in the United States."
All well and good. Nothing exciting, so far.
"From our four Irish-born Founding Fathers to Thomas Francis Meagher, the Irish revolutionary who became an American hero after leading the Irish Brigade during the Civil War, Irish immigrants have shaped our history in enduring ways."
Hold it right there!
Thomas Francis Meagher pretty much represents everything Trump -- and all of his Irish American supporters -- despise.
If Trump and his supporters get their way a 21st century Thomas Francis Meagher would never get into America.
Meagher was, after all, a member of a religious minority who was born in a country prone to violence. Meagher himself was willing to engage in political violence. That's what got him in trouble.
At a time when political violence was sweeping the globe, Meagher and his comrades in Tipperary organized a revolt against British rule in Ireland. The Young Irelander Rebellion, as the uprising came to be known, failed and Meagher faced execution. The sentence was eventually downgraded and Meagher was banished to the penal colonies in what would become Australia.
Meagher, though, was not one for following rules so he escaped. Of course, he could not go back to Ireland. He was a man without a country.
You know, a refugee! The kind of dangerous troublemaker Trump and his vice president, Mike Pence, have targeted as the most dangerous threat facing America.
And yet, somehow, America survived the menace of Thomas Francis Meagher and others like him. Meagher became a celebrated Civil War general.
But that's not all. He did something many Trump-supporting Irish Americans believe only today's immigrants do. He did not become 100 percent American, leaving his native nation behind. He remained committed not only to Irish affairs but even to violent radicalism.
So many Irish Americans buy into the nonsense that their ancestors became perfect Americans once they passed through Ellis Island, while today's immigrants are disloyal ingrates.
But what is really ungrateful is reaping the benefits of an immigration system that supposedly made America great, then scapegoating that system when other people -- even radical refugees -- try to use it.
And it would be funny if it were not tragic that, next weekend, many Trump-loving Irish Americans will be grumbling about immigrants while standing at a parade celebrating immigrants like Thomas Francis Meagher.
Read more: Galway man to be deported from Boston after Trump immigration police home raid]]>
"To be in New York, to be in the United States and to be Irish on a beautiful day like this on St. Patrick's Day – what could be better?" Dowling, a native of Co. Limerick, said at the start of the march. "It just proves what the United States is all about. No matter how you began, the United States gives opportunities that exist no place else in the world."
This year's parade featured New York Mayor Bill de Blasio for the second straight year, marching behind the banner of the New York Police Department along with Commissioner James O'Neill and Deputy Commissioner Larry Byrne. The mayor joined the line of march last year after parade organizers admitted the Irish gay group Lavender and Green Alliance for the first time. In the morning he hosted a St. Patrick's breakfast at Gracie Mansion and proclaimed the day in honor of Irish Consul General Barbara Jones with an official City Hall proclamation.
Right behind the NYPD was a group of marchers holding a special banner for 2017 in tribute to the late NYPD Detective Steven McDonald, who passed away in January 30 years after being shot and left paralyzed by a teenage criminal in Central Park. The banner read "Believe in the Power of Love & Forgiveness In Memory of Detective Steven McDonald."
McDonald's widow Patti Ann and son Conor marched behind the banner along with a large contingent of cops and supporters. "It's different," Conor, a sergeant in the NYPD, told the Irish Voice. "Pops never missed a parade so this is all new for us."
The McDonalds, honored the night before at the annual dinner hosted by the St. Patrick's Day Foundation, NYC, also attended Mass on the morning of the 17th at St. Patrick's Cathedral celebrated by Cardinal Timothy Dolan who made special mention of Steven. "It was the first time I had been back to the cathedral since Steven's funeral Mass," Patti Ann said. "It was very emotional."
The parade passed by Trump Tower, home of President Donald Trump, without incident. There was a heightened security presence and barricades along the sidewalk outside the building, but there were no protests.
Taoiseach Enda Kenny joined the march after arriving early in the morning from Washington, D.C., where he spent most of March 16 with Trump. Joining him on Fifth Avenue was New York Governor Andrew Cuomo.
Read all IrishCentral's St. Patrick's Day news here]]>
"New York has already opened doors and created opportunities for businesses to expand into new global markets – and by bringing industry leaders and representatives from across the state together on a first-ever trade mission to Ireland, we will take our economy and diverse business community to heights never reached before," Cuomo said.
"This St. Patrick's Day, we not only celebrate our Irish heritage, we embrace all New Yorkers from countries across the world, as we look forward to investing in the continued expansion of New York's global footprint. This mission will strengthen our trade relationship and expand business development opportunities with our partners in Ireland for generations to come."
Dates for the trade mission have yet to be announced.
Meanwhile, Cuomo also announced the Irish Arts Center grant which will go towards the construction of the center's new state of the art home on 11th Avenue, near its current premises. Construction on the new facility, which has raised $56 million to date from both private and government donations, is expected to begin later this year.
"The story of New York is the story of immigrants and the contributions of the Irish are woven into the very fabric of this great state," Cuomo said. "The new Irish Arts Center will allow New Yorkers and visitors alike to appreciate the rich legacy of the Irish in America, learn more about a people and culture that have changed the course of a country and continue to do so today, and attract new visitors and economic activity to the region."
Aidan Connolly, executive director of the Irish Arts Center said, "Irish Arts Center is proud to accept this transformative economic development grant from Governor Cuomo. The new Irish Arts Center will be a place for people of all backgrounds from all over the Empire State to come together in celebration of the excellence and dynamism of Irish arts and culture, and share our common heritage and humanity."
Read all IrishCentral's St. Patrick]]>
Channel 4, in Britain, placed the speech on their Facebook page where it has attracted close to 30 million viewers to date and gone viral.
Kenny was speaking at the White House reception in his honor and Trump was only feet away when Kenny spoke about the Irish immigrant experience. Trump did not appear to react negatively to his remarks.
Democrats have seized on the speech, calling it a stern rebuke by the Irish leader, and others have contrasted Kenny's defiance with the meek appearance of British leader Theresa May when she visited Washington.
In addition to 30 million views the Irish Times reports it has been viewed 2.9 million times on the Facebook page of moveon.org, 1.4 million times on CNN, 1,158,000 on the Occupy Democrats Facebook page and 235,000 on the USA Today website.
Occupy Democrats headline the story "Irish PM SCHOOLS Trump: 'St Patrick Was An Immigrant' Right to Trump's face!"
The New York Times reported the speech under the headline: "Irish Premier Uses St Patrick's Day Ritual to Lecture Trump on Immigration."
In his remarks, Kenny noted Saint Patrick was an immigrant and was the patron saint of immigrants along with being the patron saint of Ireland.
"Ireland came to America because – deprived of liberty, opportunity, safety and even food itself – we believed," he told the crowd.
"Four decades before Lady Liberty lifted her lamp, we were the wretched refuse on the teeming shore. We believed in the shelter of America, in the compassion of America, in the opportunity of America. We came and became Americans."
"Before John F. Kennedy's famous word's we asked "what we could the Irish do for America," he stated.
Read more: Don't laugh – Trump may well have been hacked by the British]]>
A joint project between the Shark Island Brewing Company and craft ale producers Willie the Boatman, the Sydney-based breweries faced immediate backlash over their use of an image of Irish famine victims and were forced to pull the product following a large number of complaints.
In a joint statement, the Australian breweries apologized for the "obvious offense" that was caused by using the theme of the Irish famine in their branding.
The breweries claim that the image and name were in fact inspired by the popular Irish song "Fields of Athenry" which includes the line "against the famine and the crown" when talking about a poor Irishman who was deported to Australia for stealing corn to feed his starving family.
"This truly was not our intention," the breweries stated when talking about the offense caused.
"When we decided to collaborate on a Saint Patrick's release we were conscious of not delivering a cliché-Irish themed beer but wished to express something a little more genuine.
"It was never our intention to trivialize this terrible piece of history for the sale of a few kegs, but to acknowledge the resilience of the people."
Read more: Mocking the Irish Famine on T-shirts is a joke too far
A spokesperson for the Committee for Commemoration of Irish Famine Victims, Michael Blanch welcomed the withdrawal of the product stating: "Anything that educates people on the Great Hunger is to be welcomed, but no-one should attempt to make commercial gain from the suffering of the victims. That's unacceptable."
It is believed the beer will now be remarketed under a new design and name.
This is far from the first time a product has invoked something related to the Great Hunger in its branding. Around St. Patrick's Day, Tshirts can be seen bearing the slogan: "My potatoes bring all the Irish to the yard and they're like that famine was hard," a change in lyrics of the popular Kelis song "Milkshake."
British network Channel 4 also came under fire in 2014 for attempting to produce a sitcom based on the Irish famine story. The proposed famine comedy put forward by Irish writer Hugh Travers is no longer being pursued by the TV channel.
H/T: Irish News]]>
The world showed up to revel for Ireland yesterday, with parades around the world, famous landmarks going green as part of Tourism Ireland's global greening initiative, songs sung, green clothes and accessories worn with aplomb, and many pints held aloft in cheers.
Here's a look at how just a few different places across the globe celebrated St. Patrick's Day. How did you spend your day? Tell us in the comments or tag @IrishCentral in your photos and videos!
St. Patrick's Day parades around the world
Look at these St. Patrick's Day parades and celebrations around the world! How did you celebrate St. Patrick's Day?Posted by IrishCentral.com on Friday, March 17, 2017
St. Patrick's Day parades may have originated in the US, but Dublin made up for that in no time - turning their parade into a swirling dream of color, music and pageantry. IrishCentral was there to live-stream the parade.
IrishCentral live at Dublin's St. Patrick's Day Parade 2017
IrishCentral was live at Dublin's St. Patrick's Day Parade. Thank you to our readers from all over the world for watching. Keep up-to-date with all this Paddy's Day here: http://irsh.us/2lueZ5vPosted by IrishCentral.com on Friday, March 17, 2017
The oul place scrubbed up well - highlights from Dublin's #StPatricksDay Parade. Hope you've all had a great day. pic.twitter.com/7WPq6TdEfn— Entertainment on RTÉ (@RTE_Ents) March 17, 2017
New York
Live from the St Patrick's Day Parade in New York City! Not a snake in sight! 🇮🇪🍀Posted by IrishCentral.com on Friday, March 17, 2017
Live at the New York St Patrick's Parade! 🇮🇪🇺🇸Posted by IrishCentral.com on Friday, March 17, 2017
Attendees at the parade tell us what today means to them.Posted by IrishCentral.com on Friday, March 17, 2017
Ireland's Taoiseach (Prime Minister) Enda Kenny also stopped by One World Trade Center to flip a switch that would turn buildings across the city green for Paddy's Day.
Ireland's Prime Minister flips a switch to turn NYC green 💚Posted by IrishCentral.com on Friday, March 17, 2017
Irish dancers took over the city!
In Chicago, the river was dyed green as is tradition, and the parade wound through the streets.
Chicago St. Patrick's Day 🍀🇺🇸
Happy #StPatricksDay from Chicago! 🇺🇸Posted by The Irish Post on Friday, March 17, 2017
Start of the 2017 St. Patrick's Day Parade in Savannah #SavStPats #StPatricksDay #Savannah pic.twitter.com/4r82AUhL7y— Jenel Few (@JDFew) March 17, 2017
New Orleans:
What a great Friday in New Orleans a #StPatricksDay second line outside @TU_SocialWork #followyournola pic.twitter.com/CZKgO8UAiZ— Patrick Bordnick (@bordnick) March 17, 2017
Hot Springs, Arkansas:
The parade is set for the @ShortestStPats Parade in the world. pic.twitter.com/rAeqLU9bmr— Shortest St Pats (@ShortestStPats) March 17, 2017
Thousands of spectators and participants braved the heavy rain for the #StPatricksDay Parade in Galway City. (Vid: Joe O'Shaughnessy) pic.twitter.com/rAoRUW8stu— Connacht/CityTribune (@CTribune) March 17, 2017
Watch on #Periscope: #Ireland 🇮🇪 Happy Paddys day ☘☘ from O'Connor's bar 🍺 galway https://t.co/1XSeOwG6M9— Frank O'Connor (@salthill05) March 17, 2017
I'll Tell Me Ma! Cracking atmosphere at Custom House Square in Belfast despite the rain. #StPatricksDay pic.twitter.com/y5vdnxASqC— Cool FM (@officialcoolfm) March 17, 2017
Paris goes green ahead of #StPatricksDay celebrations pic.twitter.com/FURLw5KtYb— AFP news agency (@AFP) March 16, 2017
And here's the view from out of this world, by NASA:
Happy #StPatricksDay Celebrating with a wave of green aurora that @Astro_Jeff was lucky enough to see in person during his 2016 mission. pic.twitter.com/hnwvCEXwUk— NASA Astronauts (@NASA_Astronauts) March 17, 2017
This selection of his beautiful words focuses upon gratitude and blessings:
"May you experience each day as a sacred gift woven around the heart of wonder."
"Blessed be the gifts you never notice,
your health, eyes to behold the world,
thoughts to countenance the unknown,
memory to harvest vanished days,
your heart to feel the world's waves,
your breath to breathe the nourishment
of distance made intimate by earth."
"Take time to see the quiet miracles that seek no attention."
"Keep something beautiful in your heart to survive difficult times and enjoy good times."
Read more: Historic Irish blessings for you and your loved ones
"May dawn find you awake and alert,
approaching your new day with dreams, possibilities, and promises;
May evening find you gracious and fulfilled;
May you go into the night blessed, sheltered and protected;
May your soul calm, console and renew you."
"May I live this day
compassionate of heart,
clear in word,
gracious in awareness,
courageous in thought,
generous in love."
"So at the end of this day, we give thanks
For being betrothed to the unknown."
* Mairead Geary came to America for one year 20 years ago. She now lives with her husband and children in Kentucky and is proud to be an American citizen. Read more on her blog here.
** Originally published in September 2015.]]>
In 2014, Clavins was finally diagnosed MS and it is believed that this may be responsible. As there is no cure for MS, however, the Roscommon man could be looking at hiccuping for life.
He told the Daily Mail, "They've taken over my life. I woke up with them one morning after a stag do and I've had them ever since.
"I've no idea why they started - I'd had more to drink than I had for some time but it was nothing out of the ordinary, just the usual mix of beer and spirits.
"Some days are worse than others and on odd days they'll stop, but they can get so bad I pass out or throw up my food.
"There are times when I can't breathe for 30 seconds because they lock up my diaphragm.
"Nights are bad and sometimes I wake up and the whole bed is shaking because they are so violent and I'll go to sleep in a different room so Susan can get some rest.
"I've learned to control them to some extent and disguise them and hiccup quietly but when I stop thinking about them they start sounding again.
Read more: Nursing a hangover? The 11 best Irish hangover cures
"People find it quite funny when they first meet me but then it becomes quite annoying for someone to have to listen to."
Clavins has tried everything to try to make them stop. He said, "I've tried all the old wives' tales like eating sugar and vinegar and all manner of supposed cures, but nothing's worked.
"Last month I had some relief after seeing a chiropractor who manipulated the phrenic nerve in my neck which is connected to the diaphragm.
"They stopped for ten days and I thought I'd finally got rid of them - but then they started again and are as bad as ever.
"I've to try to keep cheerful but I'm at the stage now where I'm scraping the barrel for ideas and looking for people to help me.
"The medical community doesn't seem to know what to do, but it is quite rare.
"I'm told there's only a handful of people in the world at this moment who will have hiccups as bad."
His wife, Susan, said, "He's in a bad way and they are getting him down.
"He's constantly losing his breath and it's difficult for anyone to concentrate on anything else when he's around.
"They can wake me up in the night and I then lie there waiting for the next one and I have to send him out of the room."
She continued, "We are just desperate to find someone who can help him because the hiccups are ruining our lives."
* Originally published in 2013.]]>
Ireland, of course, has its own hangover traditions and while we can't promise that they'll work, they're at least worth a shot, no?
IrishCentral has come up with our top 11 Irish hangover cures that are guaranteed to take the edge off the pain.
Raw Eggs
Two raw eggs for breakfast … and two more for lunch. Sworn to be successful by some majorly hard drinkers, they claim the eggs neutralize the ethanol (also known as alcohol) in your system.
Two Advil every four hours
It stands to reason that getting rid of a pounding headache is the first priority. Advil does that so simple, right? Well, maybe … If not, try Tylenol.
Water, water
And buckets of it to rehydrate yourself! Alcohol dries up the system so the only way is to swallow water is by the gallon. Some claim drinking it the night before, before you fall asleep, works even better.
Get in and sweat that alcohol out, but be careful because you need to keep rehydrated.
Polish peoples swear by them, something to do with high energy food. I don't know but the Poles sure know how to drink their vodka so they may have a secret or two.
Full Irish Breakfast
Nothing like a full Irish breakfast to get you back on the road to recovery. Normally eating something can help reduce the effects of alcohol excess and this is especially true when it comes to an Irish breakfast. Go the full hog with bacon, sausages, black and white pudding, mushrooms, fried tomato, fried eggs, soda bread, spud bread, baked beans and lashings of tea.
If you don't die of a heart attack your hangover will be cured.
Swim in the Atlantic
Nothing like a dip in the sub-zero Atlantic to banish the hangover blues. It may seem like an insane idea, but the shock to your system of running into the cold water will instantly refresh your mind and body. Please ensure you are fully sober when trying this out and always have a flask of hot tea on hand for when you exit. If this seems too extreme then a walk in the fresh air will also help.
Vats of tea with friends
There are few things in Ireland that cannot be cured with a cup of tea. When that hangover feeling sets in, throw on the kettle, get the teapot ready and find your largest mug. If lucky enough to still be in the company of friends, the ultimate cure involves sitting around for a post mortem of the previous night's events, sipping hot cups of Irish tea. Ah, delicious.
Duvet day complete with favorite films
If your hangover is particularly intense then abandon all hope of leaving the house and just stay in bed for the day. Getting your laptop geared up, order some food in perhaps and just relax in the comfort of your home. Leaving the house today is not an option.
The cure/hair of the dog
One stereotypically Irish answer to a hangover is to get right back up on that high stool and order another drink. "The hair of the dog" can often be the best solution to that horrific headache. When it seems nothing can take the edge away, just breathe a sigh of inevitability as you walk through the door of your local pub, retracing your movements from the night before. If you can't beat the hangover then distil it. Which bring us to ...
A Guinness
The "hair of the dog" tactic is a very slippery slope and must be carried out with utmost caution. You should only have one drink unless you want to end up in the same state again tomorrow - not a healthy pattern. Guinness is our tried and true choice. It's a heavier beverage, so you won't be tempted to go overboard, and it offers a bevy of health benefits due to its high iron content, which can aid in preventing hearing loss, and its antioxidant compounds, which researchers have noted can prevent the arterial clogging that leads to heart attacks.
So there you have it. A few guidelines to beating the effects of the night before.
Do you have any other cures to share on this day of collective St. Patrick's Day hangovers? Let us know how they work for you!
* Originally published in 2010.]]>
At least that's according to Niall Gibbons, CEO of Tourism Ireland, who is the US this week plugging the country as a tourist destination.
Is there any other country whose national day is celebrated across the world in the same way IrishCentral asked him.
"No, there's absolutely none and we look at our friends and colleagues across the water [in Britain who have] the likes of St Andrew's Day, St David's Day, St George's Day, there's nothing that compares to St Patrick's Day - everyone around the world wants to be Irish for just the one day!"
He spoke about about Tourism Ireland's Global Greening initiative which aims to light up various global landmarks in green to honor Ireland's patron saint and national day. The first was the Sydney Opera House on "the anniversary that the Irish first arrived in Australia and it created a huge emotional connection when people saw that photograph of a global icon turned green."
This St Patrick's Day 300 icons of the world told Tourism Ireland icons they'd be lit up in green from traditional centers of Irish emigration such as London to more remote, such as Rwanda.
"When we think about the Irish family around the world you're thinking about traditional markets in the UK, the US, Australia, Canada but the Irish reach has been far and wide and I look, for example, at the statue of Christ the Redeemer in Brazil where there wouldn't be an Irish diaspora but that statue was turned green by the Archbishop of Rio de Janeiro in honor of the Irish missionaries who did great work for the poor in Brazil.
"In relation to newer markets, obviously China and India are very important to us. They're very small in terms of numbers now but they are growing. I was delighted to see the Great Wall of China lit up green for the third year and row. It's something that we wouldn't have expected a number of years ago. But I always quote quite a funny one, would anyone expect twenty years ago we'd be able to light up Nelson's Column in London?"
Read more: This major New York landmark is joining the world in going green for St. Patrick's Day
But even if the organization is looking to expand into newer markets, the preeminent one will always be the United States. Despite calls for a boycott of the White House this St Patrick's Day by many opposed to President Trump's policies, Gibbons is clear the annual visit it worth it.
"No relationship is made in any one day," he said. "This is a sign of a long-lasting, warm, friendly familial relationship… I don't know of any other country in the world where they have a standing day where the President of the United States invites [their leader] to his house and it's really important the tradition continues. And we have to remember here at home in Ireland that we have 35 million friends and family here in the United States and it's important that we stay connected with them."
And the close relationship has seen American tourists flooding in ever increasing numbers to Ireland.
"Last year alone we saw a substantial increase, in excess of ten percent. In the past six years we've seen business from the United States increase by about 85%! he told us. "When we look at the profile of visitors coming to Ireland, the biggest spenders used to be the British, they've been overtaken by the Europeans, but now the Americans are going to knock the British into third place by 2019 - and they could even do it this year if things keep going the way they're going!"
Contrary to the popular stereotype, it's no longer just Irish Americans exploring their roots or checking up on family.
"If I was having this conversation with you ten years ago, I would be talking to you about the 70% of visitors to Ireland having a family connection. Now that's only 30% and the main growth in visitor numbers is coming from the southern states and California. So the nature of the visitors coming from North America has changed - less about the family and friends and more about the real holidaymakers."
Read more: Watch Dublin's St. Patrick's Day parade live with IrishCentral]]>
His comments are being heralded as a not so subtle comparison between the Irish who moved to the US in the 19th and 20th century and the modern-day immigrants of other ethnicities, nationalities, and religions who now face the struggle against discrimination we once did.
Also speaking at the Friends of Ireland Luncheon attended by Mike Pence yesterday, Kenny got more to the point in his comments, using Trump's own phrase "Make America Great Again" to highlight the contribution the Irish and many other immigrants have made to the US.
"I'd just like to say in finality, this is what I said to your predecessor on a number of occasions: We would like this to be sorted. It would remove a burden of so many people that they can stand out in the light and say, now I am free to contribute to America as I know I can. And that's what people want," Kenny said.
"We were the wretched refuse on the teeming shore," Irish prime minister says with Donald Trump in the room. pic.twitter.com/7jEfTVvIzE— Barry Malone (@malonebarry) March 17, 2017
"There are millions out there who want to play their part for America — if you like, who want to make America great," he said to laughter.
"Heard it before? Heard that before?" Kenny asked.
Whereas Trump spoke of how America would remain a loyal friend to Ireland when he met with the Taoiseach on Thursday, Kenny's comments took on a considerably stronger tone.
"It's fitting that we gather here each year to celebrate St. Patrick and his legacy. He too, of course, was an immigrant. And though he is, of course, the patron saint of Ireland, for many people around the globe he's also a symbol of — indeed the patron of — immigrants," the Taoiseach said.
"Here in America, in your great country, 35 million people claim Irish heritage, and the Irish have contributed to the economic, social, political, and cultural life of this great country over the last 200 years. Ireland came to America because deprived of liberty, deprived of opportunity, of safety, of even food itself, the Irish believed."
Kenny continued to highlight the state in which many Irish people would have arrived in America in less fortunate times. Despite the number of Irish who may have made a move to the US following the financial crash for financial and economic reasons, their plight was not as severe as the famine Irish who arrived into the country poorly educated, impoverished, hungry, and often extremely ill.
"And four decades before Lady Liberty lifted her lamp, we were the wretched refuse on the teeming shore," he said, a phrase which some feel is referencing the Syrian refugee crisis and refugees' attempts to cross the Mediterranean Sea to escape.
"We believed in the shelter of America, in the compassion of America, in the opportunity of America. We came and we became Americans. We lived the words of John F. Kennedy long before he uttered them: We asked not what America can do for us, but what we could do for America. And we still do."
The Taoiseach had faced much criticism before his St. Patrick's Day trip by those who felt the Irish should not associate with Trump or gift him with the traditional annual bowl of shamrock. Former Maryland governor Martin O'Malley began a petition to boycott the ceremony and called for others to do the same while may have accused Irish-American members of Trump's cabinet such as Mike Pence, Kellyanne Conway, Steve Bannon and even Paul Ryan of forgetting their Irish roots in their immigration policies.
Worth saying, Kenny's White House visit is being treated as a challenge to Trump by US media. NYT in particular. https://t.co/dWHeOU96iP pic.twitter.com/nV4MNpmnxP— Richard Chambers (@newschambers) March 17, 2017
At the White House #StPatricksDay Reception, Irish PM Enda Kenny gave Trump a lesson on American immigration – and compassion. #LastWord pic.twitter.com/OD2uQRhIKC— The Last Word (@TheLastWord) March 17, 2017
The Irish prime minister used his St. Patrick's Day visit to lecture President Trump on the virtues of immigration https://t.co/sCFWCOwAGP pic.twitter.com/YzQNXS4c7n— The New York Times (@nytimes) March 17, 2017
Kenny himself had criticized Trump during his Presidential campaign referring to his remarks "racist and dangerous" in the Irish parliament.
With the Taoiseach expected to step aside as leader of his party in the coming weeks, Trump's first St. Patrick's Day in the White House could be Kenny's last and the Taoiseach's comments were much more strongly worded than those of the previous seven years' ceremonies in which he has joked with President Obama and Vice-President Biden.
Victims of the "Know-Nothing" party, Irish immigrants in the 19th and 20th centuries were viewed then much as Latino and Muslim immigrants are viewed today, falsely regarded as a burden on the state that contribute nothing to US society and faced with a fear that their religion makes them un-American.
Ireland's President Michael D. Higgins also drew attention to immigrants and the history of Irish immigration this year in his St. Patrick's Day message.
He pays tribute to the Irish emigrants who have been "peerless ambassadors" for our nation over the centuries, reflecting on how emigration to Ireland is now having the same effect on our country through the passion, energy, and commitment of new groups in our society.
Read more: My grandfather's Irish emigrant life: hard times, then happiness (PHOTOS)
What did you think of Taoiseach Enda Kenny's remarks? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section.]]>
Here are our ten top facts about St. Patrick's Day. Let us know how well you do in the comments section!
1. St. Patrick was not Irish. He was from Wales.
2. The humble shamrock was originally a teaching tool. St. Patrick is said to have used the three-leaved plant to explain the Holy Trinity (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit) to the pagan Irish.
3. The first St. Patrick's Day parade took place in New York in the 1760s.
4. For many years, blue was the color most often associated with St. Patrick. Green was considered unlucky. St. Patrick's blue was considered symbolic of Ireland for many centuries and the Irish Presidential Standard is still blue.
5. For many years, Dripsey in County Cork had the world's shortest parade, just 77 feet, the distance between two pubs – The Weigh Inn and The Lee Valley. Currently, the town of Hot Springs, Arkansas, claims to have the shortest parade – a 98-foot route on Bridge Street. Recent participants included the Irish Elvises and the San Diego Chicken.
6. In 2010, the Sydney Opera House went green to mark the 200th anniversary of St. Patrick's Day there. In Sydney, St Patrick's Day was first marked in 1810, when Lachlan Macquarie, the Governor of New South Wales, provided entertainment for Irish convict workers.
7. In Chicago every year, the Plumbers Local 110 union dyes the river "Kelly" green. The dye lasts for about five hours.
8. Traditionally, every year, the Irish leader hands a crystal bowl full of shamrock to the US President. The shamrock, grown in Kerry, is immediately destroyed by the Secret Service after the exchange.
9. Guinness sales soar on St. Patrick's Day. Recent figures show that 5.5 million pints of the black stuff are downed around the world every day. On St. Patrick's Day that figure is doubled.
* Originally published in February 2012.]]>
No need to fear missing out this March 17, as even if you can't be there in person, Irish company Claddagh Rings has come to your aid to teach you all you need to know about the parades taking place around the world from the comfort of your own computer or phone.
Outlining some of the biggest and best parades in the world, the interactive map they've created jumps between Ireland and the US and from state and state to tell you the facts and figures you need to know. For instance, did you know that there is a very special parade held in Hot Springs, Arkansas, each year which lasts just 98ft? Or that everyone's favorite Irish-American President John F. Kennedy and his wife Jackie participated in the parade in Boston in 1958, a parade that has been running for almost three centuries, since 1737?
Read more: Watch Dublin's St. Patrick's Day parade live with IrishCentral
Other parades mentioned include Montreal, whose city flag even contains a shamrock; Cleveland, Ohio, where a parade has been running since 1867; and Kansas City, Missouri, where they celebrate "Snake Saturday."
Simply flip through the map below to explore the best of St. Patrick's Day 2017.
Map created by Claddagh Rings.]]>
For me, St. Patrick's Day is an important reminder that we are a nation of immigrants and that our diversity is perhaps our greatest strength as a nation. In my home city of Philadelphia, 12% of the population was born outside of the United States. My father is one of them. He found his American Dream in the City of Brotherly Love. The city was built on his shoulders and millions of other immigrants like him. My father instilled in me a rigorous work ethic, pride in where we've come from, optimism for where we're headed, and patriotism for the country that provided him and his family a better life. He also taught me to appreciate my gift of citizenship and, with that, civic duty. Sadly, that gift is now under threat of being stolen from those who would dare to dream as my father did.
President Trump's recent executive orders limiting immigration and anti-immigrant rhetoric since the start of his campaign serve only to fan the flames of misunderstanding, xenophobia, and hate – not all that different from that experienced by my Irish ancestors. Their American dream came tainted with the poison of prejudice during the 1800s. Signs displaying "Irish Need Not Apply" surrounded their community. Political parties like the "Know-Nothing Party" organized against them, promising to purify American politics by ending the influence of Irish Catholics and other immigrants. Some died for the simple reason that they were Irish and Catholic. Though this stain on our country's historical fabric deterred some from the American Dream, many first generation Irish Americans fought back. They faced this hatred head on with hard work and strength of character and succeeded. And their descendants went on to become productive members of their communities: teachers, civil servants, doctors, scientists, etc. It is thought that 22 of America's Presidents had Irish roots.
Sadly, the "Know-Nothing Party" that we thought was long a thing of the past has re-emerged as part of a new generation. Today, the Right's anti-immigrant rhetoric and actions are nearly identical to that of the hate-filled political party of the mid-1800s which Irish Americans are all too familiar with. Their mission remains simple: keep immigrants out and blame them for today's problems; an easy, vulnerable target.
It is now up to every American to ensure that the guarantee of the American Dream continues as this fundamental principle sustains an attack from those who seek to destroy it. It does not matter if your ancestors came here in 2017, 1917 or 1817, we are all in this country because someone before us decided to dream and took a chance in the United States. It is our civic duty to ensure that our democracy continues affording that same opportunity to those who seek our shores for a better life.
Congressman Brendan Boyle is a Democratic member of the United States House of Representatives, representing Pennsylvania's 13th congressional district since January 3, 2015.]]>
It can be a terrific day to be Irish, so IrishCentral decided to take a look at the best part of St. Patrick's Day for a person from Ireland.
St. Patrick's Day isn't just a celebration within the small country of Ireland, it has become a global event. Countries from all over the world join in on the festivities. Here in the United States the country turns green, and in Chicago the river literally turns green.
There are over 34 million people in the US who claim Irish heritage, with the most Irish-populated regions being along the east coast. The Irish American relationship began during 19th century and most notably as a result of the Great Famine in Ireland.
Between 1845 and 1855 over 1.5 million people immigrated to America from Ireland. The Irish in America have played a key part in this country over the last couple of centuries and continue to do so today. Irish surnames, place names and other references can be seen instilled within the fabric of US society.
The major event of any St. Patrick's Day celebration is the parade. New York City hosts the largest parade in the world with millions of people gathering by the streets along the city's famous fifth avenue to take in the spectacle.
The parade consists of musical performers, pipe bands, dancers and different communities in New York, as well as representatives from police and fire departments from across the country.
In Ireland, Dublin City attracts nearly half a million spectators each year and runs a week long set of events like boat races, live music and the Irish Beer and Whiskey Festival. It is truly a proud day to be Irish, to witness the joy that comes with the parade.
If you haven't had the pleasure of seeing a John Deere tractor pulling a trailer, transporting a man dressed as St. Patrick shaking a stick at some plastic snakes then you haven't lived, or maybe you just haven't seen a local community parade in Ireland.
The Grand Marshal for the 2017 New York City parade is County Limerick Native Michael Dowling, president and chief executive officer of Northwell Health.
This origin of this annual tradition dates back to 1952 when the Irish Ambassador in Washington, John Hearne, sent then US President Harry Truman a small box of three-leaf clovers. From their the tradition began. Since 1959 Irish leaders have been welcomed to America by various US Presidents.
What began as a gesture of goodwill in 1952 has now become an important political date in the Irish calendar. Many major discussions have taken place over the years including matters concerning the Peace Process in Northern Ireland during the 90's.
It is especially vital to keep these ties together as no other world leader has such access to one of the world's most powerful leader especially in such uncertain times in America at the moment. This year Taoiseach (Prime Minister) Enda Kenny will meet newly elected President Donald Trump. Kenny has received criticism for going ahead with this year's White House visit in light of President Trump's recent Travel Ban, but some view that cancelling the meeting could have caused harm to future visits.
St. Patrick's Day has evolved from a day where St. Patrick's life was celebrated to a day where Ireland is celebrated. Everything that makes this small country special comes to the forefront through spectacular events and festivals.
Irish food, music, heritage and sport are all on show during this special day. Ireland comes alive and so does the rest of the world. In the US, bacon and cabbage (corned beef and cabbage) and Guinness are high up on people's lists of St. Patrick's Day necessities. Irish pubs across the city will be bustling with people and traditional Irish music always fills the surroundings.
Back home in Ireland the most important day in club gaelic football and hurling are on display in the country's national stadium, Croke Park. Thousands of people will attend this year's showcase to see which teams will come out on top. It is amazing that one small nation like Ireland can have an annual effect on the world.
Irish people have a knack for finding a connection to how they know another Irish person. The old saying, "You can't go anywhere without meeting someone you know", is never more true when two Irish people meet.
The Irish diaspora has spread a pretty wide net around the world, populating almost every part of the globe. Whether you visit Australia, China, France or Argentina you are almost certain to run into one of the many global Irish communities.
Outside of actually living in Ireland for St. Patrick's Day, meeting someone else at a parade away from home is a near sure fire way of meeting someone who knows you or who you mutually know. So wherever you are celebrating St. Patrick's Day this year keep your eyes peeled, you might just meet your neighbor.
The best thing about being Irish on St. Patrick's Day, is actually being Irish on St. Patrick's Day. This celebration has become a global event, with countries all over the world joining in. There is no better feeling than being at one of these parades outside of the homeland and being Irish.
It is fascinating to witness how other cultures have embraced our tiny little island. The fundamentals remain the same but different countries have different traditions. New York City has the world's largest celebration and organizers invite police and fire departments from all over the country to participate.
In Hong Kong the parade begins when St. Patrick lights the eyes of a dragon and lion. In the small Caribbean Island of Montserrat, huge emphasis is put on St. Patrick's Day. It is the only other place in the world, besides Ireland, that this day is a public holiday. It really makes one proud of their Irish heritage to see other nations celebrating this special day.
What makes you proud to be Irish on St. Patrick's Day? Let us know in the comments below.]]>
Sometimes, though, it can be a bit of a nightmare. It is a long day for people who just want to enjoy all things green, white and gold. So we at IrishCentral decided to take a look at the other side of things that Irish people may not enjoy about St. Patrick's Day.
Leprechauns have become a big part of celebrations during St. Patrick's Day festivities. They are depicted as small ginger bearded men in Irish folklore who wear a green hat, jacket and pants, and love nothing more than partaking in mischief. When these crafty pixies are caught they are said to grant three wishes in exchange for freedom.
It is the one day a year people can dress up as these mythical creatures in public without the slightest notion of embarrassment. Unfortunately for the many of us who have been blessed with the ginger gene there is a lot of leprechaun jokes to contend with. Unless you get that hair color changed the best course of action is to simply embrace it and enjoy your license for mischief.
Irish people, for the most part, are beloved here in the US. The sexy accent, hard working nature and sense of humor go down a treat in America. And people love to have a chat with us. As soon as an Irish person opens their mouth the inevitable questions will follow.
"So where are you from then?" is the quintessential question every Irish person in the US will be asked this St. Patrick's Day. All this attention can be a tremendous ego boost but it can also be a very repetitive. Americans tend to go into extensive detail about their Irish heritage when they meet someone from Ireland. So why not have a little fun with it this year? Start coming up with different ways to amuse yourself when someone asks you the inescapable question.
An inevitable part of St. Patrick's Day celebrations are the mass of people that will descend on major cities. In New York City millions of people will line the streets along fifth avenue to take in the annual St. Patrick's Day parade. Following the parade the next port of call is an Irish pub.
It's no secret that many Irish people love their Guinness which means a trip to the Irish pub is going to happen. With such a high population of Irish or Irish American people in New York, somewhere in the region of five per cent, it will be quite difficult to find a comfortable seat to enjoy your Guinness.
So be prepared this St. Patrick's Day, you will be waiting in line for a majority of the day whether for food, drinks or the toilet. So be patient, be courteous of others and just enjoy the celebration of your Irish heritage.
This might possibly be the worst thing any Irish person will have to endure in their lifetime, if one can be overly dramatic for a moment. Guinness should not be served in a plastic glass, everything about it is wrong.
This special stout should be served in its beautifully unique glass and poured to perfection. Unfortunately Guinness is just "thrown out" to customers in plastic glasses to avoid any accidents and save time on St. Patrick's Day. This doesn't allow Guinness the 119.5 seconds it needs to ensure its perfect creamy goodness.
St. Patrick's Day is day for people to have fun and enjoy being Irish, even if you're not. Being abroad for all the outstanding events might seem like a fantastic idea. Irish people view New York City as a must see St. Patrick's Day celebration in their lifetime.
However, for the many people here in New York it is a long tiring day and it can also be a time for people to miss home. There are a reported 50,000 undocumented Irish people here in New York, many of whom have not been back to Ireland for years.
It is a worrying time for all undocumented people within the US with the new President Trump administration cracking down on illegal immigrants in the country. Many of these people are a vital part of the workforce in the city and many of them will be serving the majority of people throughout St. Patrick's Day.
So this year let us all take the time to thank the many people who will be doing their best to ensure everyone has a happy St. Patrick's Day.
Let us know what you think is the worst thing about being Irish on St. Patrick's Day in the comments below.]]>
Some folks may not know that St. Patrick – the Irish hero – was the son of a Roman diplomat living in England. So, where's the freaking bruschetta?
Before anybody pops a shamrock, understand that I enjoy the Irish traditions of St. Patrick's Day as much as anyone. Rarely do I miss a St. Patrick's Day celebration.
But, considering St. Patrick was Italian, could we throw in a little pizza and some tiramisu just to be fair? Based on the English factor, we may want to put some fish and chips on the menu, too, just to be politically correct.
I also think the Italians should be represented in some of the activities. This would make me a totally happy camper, considering my background includes Italian, Irish and English.
Transitioning St. Patrick's Day to the Italians might change the complexion of the holiday just a teensy.
Read more: The special love-hate relationship between Irish and Italian Americans
If the Italian influence were reflective of the Italian side of my family, every float in the parade would be filled with people shouting, talking with their hands and arguing about whose garden produced the best tomatoes and whose mother is most saintly.
In addition to encouraging everyone to drink, Italian holiday organizers would be guilting them into eating. Instead of green beer, the bar would be lined with glasses of red wine.
I'm not sure painting faces red instead of green would be a good idea because then people would just look embarrassed. And probably for good reason.
The bar circuit on an Italian St. Patrick's Day would not allow for barhopping, but would require you to go to the watering hole where people from your ancestral region were celebrating. If you were of Calabrese descent and went to a Tuscan bar, an evil eye malocchio curse might cause you to choke on your Campari.
And there would absolutely be more Masses.
Oh, and forget your friends. Celebrating Italian style would require carousing with your relatives – all-l-l of your relatives.
Yeah, picture Nana on the bar at Sullivan's doing Riverdance.
OK, maybe we should stick with the Irish. Besides, I can't give up my Shamrock Shakes.
*This column first appeared in the Erie Times News. Click here to read more of their stories.]]>
The following are the cutest animals we've seen so far this St. Patrick's Day. What a horrible chore it was to put this together! If your pet is dressing up today, tag or mention @IrishCentral in your post on Instagram, Twitter, or Facebook, or email us via firstname.lastname@example.com. We might add their photo here!
Happy St. Patrick's Day, ye adorable animals!
Read more: 15 cats and dogs who really hate St. Patrick's Day
It's not St Patrick's Day unless there's a pig pushing a trolley & a pint of Guinness while wearing a leprechaun hat. pic.twitter.com/bwlR4Ff3Mf— Andrew Quinn (@AndrewEQuinn) March 17, 2015
Excluding men and women who have donned the uniform of their country and fought for it is an incredible insult. Were they any less brave, any less patriotic, any less human because of their identity as LGBT military members? Of course not.
Opponents of LGBT participation in the parades are like Japanese soldiers who refused to surrender at the end of World War II and kept fighting for decades from isolated positions.
This fight has been won. There's no question. The Boston and New York St. Patrick's Day parades should be part of the usual historical progression, but Boston organizers, Canute-like, tried to turn back the tide.
At least New York learned the lesson well under an enlightened leadership in 2015. Would I be so remiss to wonder if such a slate of new and progressive leaders could also take charge in Southie?
They are so out of touch with how younger generations think about inclusion that they look almost quaint in their thunderous objections.
Laughably their objection was to the rainbow flag, a clear indication that every sign showing a rainbow leading to a leprechaun's pot of gold and a Lucky Charms ad with a rainbow should be banned immediately.
The reaction to last week's ban was quick and heartening. Major sponsors pulled their support, and younger veterans who were not consulted on the decision made their voices heard.
The Irish American community in Boston made it clear they did not approve as Mayor Marty Walsh and a glut of Irish American politicians such as Congressman Joe Kennedy said the flag of bigotry would not fly.
Irish American politicians turning down an invite to march in a parade in Boston is as rare as a three dollar bill. But these pols were not having it.
"I will not tolerate discrimination in our city of any form," Walsh said. "I will not be marching in the parade unless this is resolved. Anyone who values what our city stands for should do the same."
Those were strong words and a needed wake-up call for those who banned the LGBT marchers. The Walsh reaction begs the question -- what on earth were organizers thinking with their initial decision to block OutVets, especially as the group had already marched in 2015 and 2016?
Perhaps the ghost of the former organizer John "Wacko" Hurley, who long blocked gays in the parade because they were spreading "a message contrary to family values," loomed over the decision making.
Wacko, like his New York counterpart John Dunleavy, was never for turning until the bulldozer called modern reality steamrolled over them. Wacko has passed and Dunleavy is on the sidelines now, clear testament that times change.
Someone forgot to tell the Boston St. Patrick's Day parade organizers, though, and they put their feet in the muck with an audible squelch.
At least the mistake has been redressed, which is progress in itself, but quite why it was necessary to ban OutVets in the first place remains an utter mystery.
But the decision has been reversed, support for the parade has been restored and the storied Southie march will proceed as it always should have – with a space for everyone.