This site includes the postings from the Irish Aires email list. This includes a listing of Irish/Celtic events in the Houston area and other information that the Irish Aires radio program posts.

Wednesday, September 10, 2008

Current Events

What's New? 09/11/08 – Rory Miggins Memorial Concert at Discovery Green 09/13/08 – Bill & Emily hosts Irish Aires 09/13/08 – Constant Billy at Bayou Farmers Market 09/20/08 – Constant Billy at Irish American Heritage Assoc Celebration at SP VFW 10/05/08 – Celtic Festival & Gathering of the Celtis at St Andrews Episcopal Church 10/08/08 - St. Paddy’s Irish Open at the Hearthstone (DATE CHANGE!) 10/11-12 – Constant Billy at Celtic Nations Festival in Lake Charles ---- On Going events: If you have nothing better to do, and I suspect you do, you can see our vacations Pictures on line. Warning they are NOT from Ireland (unfortunately). We are heading West and update the pics regularly: ALL my pics at Flickr Slide show for Pics from the West Slide show for Pics from the Midwest Slide Show for Pics from Big Horn Mountains, Wyoming Slide Show for Pics from Beartooth Mountains, WY & MT Slide Show for Pics from Montana Slide Show for Pics from Glacier Park OR you can see more details about our trip at YAHOO Trip Fall 2008 YAHOO Trip Fall 2008 – Part 2 (The pictures can be seen at the Yahoo site also. Click on the pictures directly Left of the Fall 2008 title. You will see the pics here with labels.) ---- To see our playlist as we play it, go to: http://www.kpft.org/studio/playlist.php Archived shows KPFT Archived Programs Sorted By Name ---- 09/11/08 – Rory Miggins Memorial Concert at Discovery Green Subject: Concert honoring the legacy of Rory Miggins and Local Charm -- September 11, Discovery Green, 6 - 9 pm. Friends -- I wanted to let you know about this event and to thank you for being a friend to me, to Rory, and to the Miggins family during our difficult transition following Rory’s death in December. Some of you remember Local Charm, Rory’s bar and music venue. Some of you only heard of it. As it happens, September 11 is Rory’s birthday. He would be 53. Please feel free to pass along this information to others who might be interested. The concert is organized by Allen Hill, a Local Charm performer and gifted musician. The concert at Discovery Green on Thursday, September 11 features Texas Johnny Brown and I. J. Gosey and honors the legacy of Rory Miggins and Local Charm. It is the second concert in the fall series of free, family friendly shows at Discovery Green. Free parking begins at 6 pm and the concerts start promptly at 6:30 pm. Press Release: Thursday, September 11 – Real Guitar Heroes Starring Texas Johnny Brown and I.J. Gosey Put down the video games and come see real guitar heroes in action! Texas Johnny Brown and I. J. Gosey showcase the guitar traditions they pioneered in the 1950s as Duke/Peacock session players. The concert honors the legacy of Rory Miggins and Local Charm. Fondly, Eileen Eileen Miggins Hohlt McDaniel ♦ Hohlt P. C. 3555 Timmons Lane, Suite 1225 Houston, Texas 77027 (713) 227-5001 (713) 227-8750 (fax) ehohlt@mcdanielfirm.com ********************** 09/13/08 – Constant Billy at Bayou Farmers Market Constant Billy at Bayou City Farmers Market 9/13/08 Dodging hurricanes is getting to be a nasty habit here. Barring an Extreme Weather Event, Constant Billy will brave the elements THIS Saturday September 13, 2008, from 9-11am as we return to the Bayou City Farmers' Market. Come join us- we have some great NEW songs! The market just keeps getting bigger and the post-summer offerings just get better, from Mickey’s fair trade organic coffees to goat cheeses, yard eggs, free range chicken, grassfed beef, shelled pecans, fresh-baked breads, Gulf shrimp, vegetable and herb starts, ornamental plants, honey and beeswax products, and lotsa choices of prepared foods and baked goods as well as knife sharpening and song warbling while you shop. Come join us and see what fresh food and fresh MUSIC are all about! What: Constant Billy returns to Houston’s wonderful Bayou City Farmers Market. Where: 3000 Richmond Ave. at Eastside (enter on Eastside) in Houston (click here for map). When: 9-11am, Saturday September 13, 2008. How Much: Absolutely FREE! SAME DAY! Saturday September 13, from 6-7pm: Emily & Bill host the IRISH AIRES radio show on Houston's KPFT 90.1 FM. Thanks for your support of acoustic music! Emily Standish Bill Galbraith www.constantbilly.com **************************** 09/20/08 – Constant Billy at Irish American Heritage Assoc Celebration at SP VFW Saturday September 20, 2008, in the afternoon at the IRISH AMERICAN HERITAGE ASSOCIATION ANNUAL CELEBRATION, Houston, TX. This annual shindig is always a blast. There will be dancers singers music and mayhem hosted by a really fun group. We are told that there will be free snacks and soft drinks and alcohol available at a cash bar. Our time has not yet been finalized- we'll probably go on early in the afternoon. But come on out and join us we spend the day there; the thing goes on from noon to 6pm. A great time is guaranteed for all. What: Constant Billy performs at the Irish American Heritage Association Celebration. Where: Spring Branch Post 8790 VFW Hall, 1560 Foley St (near Campbell Rd & Long Point Dr) (click here for map) or call Mike Long at 281-395-3038 for directions/info. When: noon-6pm, (we go on sometime in the afternoon) Saturday September 20, 2008. How Much:$5 cover. **************************** 10/05/08 - Celtic Festival & Gathering of the Celts at St Andrew Episcopal Noon – 5:30 pm 19th Street & Heights Boulevard Admission: Family Ticket: $5.00, Singles: $3.00, Children Under 10 - FREE Featuring the award-winning St. Thomas' Episcopal School Pipe Band The Kirking of the Tartans begins immediately following the 10:30 am church service, kicking off the festival which is highlighted by Celtic music and dance on two stages. For kids young and old, the event offers a Jacob’s ladder, a log challenge, castle moonwalk, and a special children's area with crafts and games. And, you'll be able to sample the wares of a wide range of artists and craftsmen....all while enjoying :: delicious food and drink! :: Fabulous Music & Dance: :: Constant Billy - Bill Galbraith & Emily Standish :: Celtic Voyage :: Kristen Jensen :: Kelley Fair & Friends :: Celtic Chorus of Houston :: Cass Academy of Irish Dance :: McTeggart Irish Dancers :: Good Time Scottish Country Dancers :: ilderkin International Dancers (KIDS) To learn more about the great entertainment line-up emceed by g uest announcer Dave Vandiver, visit the Gathering of the Celts. Fantastic Art & Crafts: A Punkin Card Company - handmade stationery Athena Glass - original fused glass jewelry & art Cross the Universe - uniquely decorated crosses D&M Art Works - dichronic glass & custom jewelry Elder Street Artists - original artwork Gamiworks - chiyogami gifts & accessories Hill Country Smorgasboard - gourd art & jewelry Hope's Couture - unique purses & wallets Houston Crafts - handmade jewelry Feto Soap - handcrafted bath & body products J Peace Designs - handcrafted jewelry & clothing Jeanne's Jewels - jewelry, gemstones June McCarthy - wreathes, crosses, wands, geckos Kopp Krafts - sand art, juggle sticks Laredo Designs - wrought iron decor MeMe's Jams 'N Jellies - homemade treats One, Two, Three, Etc. - sterling silver jewelry Phenix Handcrafted Knives - custom forged blades Qcreations - handmade blue jean purses & blankets St. Andrew's Quilters' Guild - handcrafted quilts & decor The Art of Ron Collins - mystical woodcarving & art Twin Star Trading - hand painted fans, beaded cloth Village Botanica - organic produce & nutritional items And much, much more! Attention Artists, Vendors & Entertainers! For information about vendor opportunities, contact Teri Jo Nicholson, Chris Barker or Kathleen Galbraith. To participate as an entertainer, please contact Dianna Shipman. **************************** 10/08/08 - St. Paddy’s Irish Open at the Hearthstone Country Club (NOTE: Postponed from 09/15 to 10/08 – Thank You IKE!) 7615 Ameswood Houston, TX 77095 Phone: 281.463.2001 Monday, Oct. 08th Cost: $100 per player Registration 10:30 AM Enjoy a complete program of special events, 18 holes of golf (including cart), lunch and dinner, Range balls, golf cart and beverages on the course... All for just $100 / player :: Putting challenge on the practice green :: Two longest drive contests :: Hole-in-One Prize :: And the $10,000 Hole-in-One Shootout Tel: 713-365-9648 Fax: 713-666-6604 e-mail: irishmkk@aol.com Interested in sponsoring a hole or the meal? Please contact Sean Kearns at 832-978-4192 or Doc Dougherty 713- 446-8724. :: $150 Hole sponsor :: $500 Team and Hole :: 2/ $10 Mulligans :: World Famous 50/50 cash drawing :: More to come… 15th Annual Irish Open Golf Tournament and Fundraiser For this years event, we will be returning to Hearthstone Country Club on Monday, September 15th. Registration begins at 10:30 am with lunch and tee-off at 12 pm. The cost for this event is only $100. This price includes entry into all events, 18 holes of golf, riding cart, lunch, dinner, beverages on course, gift bag and more to come later. There will be a few items in a silent auction during dinner To help us properly plan for this event, please pre- register by filling out the reverse side and fax it to 713- 661-6604. You are welcome to use a credit card, but if you 661-6605. want to pay by check when you arrive, please 661-6606. indicate on the form. About Hearthstone Country Club… Hearthstone has 27 holes of championship golf, offering a varied and enjoyable challenge for both the high and low handicapper. Hearthstone Country Club has three Nine-Hole Golf courses: Horsepen, Jackrabbit and Wolf Corner. A selection of two of the three will be chosen before the day of the event. The greens of all three courses are planted with the TifEagle Bermuda, and the tees and fairways are 419 Tifway Bermuda. The architect of the course was Jay Riviere. Casual attire is acceptable on the day of the event. ************************* 09/19/08 - Celtic Vogage at McClellans Pub in Humble McClellans Pub Presents Celtic Voyage on June 13th 8-11:30PM An unforgettable Evening of Laughter & Song $5.00 cover charge McClellan’s Pub Corner of Townsen Road & North Houston Avenue Just one exit north of Deerbrook Mall, Humble ************************* 09/24/08 – Photographing in Ireland: A Photographer’s Journey at U of St Thomas Center for Irish Studies Cultural Outreach Series James Fraher, professional photographer from Ireland Photographing in Ireland: A Photographer’s Journey 7:30 p.m. Cullen Hall, 4001 Mt. Vernon Free and open to the public Sponsors: UST Center for Irish Studies Cultural Outreach Forum & The Irish Society Photographer James Fraher, who lives in Skreen, Co. Sligo, Ireland, will share his experiences of photographing in Ireland over the past 30 years. Lecture highlights include Fraher’s account of participating in book projects, A Day in the Life of Ireland, 1991, and Stories from a Sacred Landscape, by Irish archaeologist Caimin O’Brien, Mercier Press, 2006. (Caimin O’Brien spoke for our Cultural Outreach Program in March 2007.) From peat bogs to horse fairs, rag bushes to traditional music and grave slabs to artist interventions, all with a passion for tradition and a sense of place, this presentation is part of one photographer’s journey. James Fraher is a professional photographer and photographic educator. He holds a BA in photography and an MA in media communications. Fraher has used the media of photography, video and audio to document unique cultural aspects of people and places. His photographs have been exhibited in museums and galleries in the United States, Ireland, Scotland and France. In 1996, he received the “Keeping the Blues Alive Award” presented by the Blues Foundation in Memphis, TN. Fraher and his company Bogfire have produced two traditional Irish music recordings of South Sligo musicians, One’s Own Place by flute player Kevin Henry, and Farewell to Evening Dances by singer and flute and whistle player Colm O’Donnell. Fraher’s photographs have appeared on over 150 music recording covers and publications, including Living Blues, Guitar Player, Downbeat, Juke Blues, Texas Highways and in The Blues, a documentary series produced by Martin Scorsese. He is the author of The Blues is a Feeling: Voices and Visions of African-American Blues Musicians, Face to Face Books, 1998. He is the photographer of two collaborative book projects with author Roger Wood, Down in Houston: Bayou City Blues, University of Texas Press, 2003, and Texas Zydeco, University of Texas Press, 2006. In 1991, Fraher was one of 82 photographers for A Day In The Life of Ireland, a book by Collins Publishers. The University of St. Thomas Center for Irish Studies is pleased to announce its fall cultural outreach series. Events are first-come, first-served. All lectures are free; minimal charge for concerts. No RSVP; no tickets sold in advance. Parking is available for $2 in the Moran Center at West Alabama at Graustark. For more information, contact the Center Director, Lori Meghan Gallagher, J.D., at 713-525-3592 or irishstudies@stthom.edu. ************************* 09/25/08 - Flogging Molly at Verizon Wireless Theater Houston, TX Thursday, 8:00PM ************************* 10/01/08 - The High Kings Tickets at Hobby Center, Houston, TX 8:00PM Check out their website at: http://www.thehighkings.com/tourdatesUS.html. ************************* 10/05/08 - 2008 Celtic Festival & Gathering Of The Celts St. Andrew's Episcopal Church, Heights, Houston, Texas ************************* 10/08/08 - Sean Tyrrell, Irish musician, singer and storyteller at U of St Thomas Center for Irish Studies Cultural Outreach Series Sean Tyrrell, Irish musician, singer and storyteller Cry of the Dreamer: The Amazing Story of Irish Hero John Boyle O’Reilly 7:30 p.m. Scanlan Room, Jerabeck Center, 4000 Mt. Vernon Free and open to the public Sponsors: UST Center for Irish Studies Cultural Outreach Forum & Irish American Cultural Institute The Irish Society Irish singer, musician and storyteller Seán Tyrrell will present the story of John Boyle O’Reilly (1844-1890) through song, music, poetry and other writings. O’Reilly was a visionary and a poet with the heart of a rebel, the courage of a freedom fighter, the commitment of a civil rights activist and the blood of a true born Irishman. He was persecuted, condemned and banished from Ireland to the Penal Colonies in Australia for his political beliefs and activities. He was the first to escape on an American whaling ship. His story crosses three continents and is one of imprisonment, persecution and escape. Tyrrell weaves O’Reilly’s story into a tapestry of traditional Irish music and song, part spoken word and part historical rendition. The presentation evokes a theatre in the round experience. You will be led across a dance-floor of words so lovely, so dire and so hopeful that there can be only one feeling when it is over: Awe. This riveting stage presentation brings this forgotten visionary-poet to life. Tyrrell’s passion for O’Reilly’s life, work and poetry permeates his stunning theatrical presentation. Tyrrell originally is from the West of Ireland. He emigrated to New York in 1968. He joined the Greenwich Village folk music scene before moving to San Francisco in the early 1970s, where he gained a reputation as an exceptional Irish singer. In the late 1970s, Tyrrell returned to Ireland. With a growing reputation, he was invited to “guest” on several recordings, including two albums with the former Moving Hearts uileann piper, Davy Spillane. On the heels of his successful recordings with Davy Spillane, Tyrrell embarked on his first solo project, Cry of A Dreamer, recorded on his own label Longwalk Music. The album, released in April 1994, was greeted with great critical acclaim and was voted Best Folk Album of the Year by both Folk Roots and Hotpress magazine. Tyrrell began touring extensively in Ireland, England, Europe and the USA, performing at major festivals and concert halls. In 1999, he released his much anticipated second solo effort, The Orchard. This album also was met with critical acclaim, as Tyrrell was voted Best Overall Folk Act and the album was voted Best Folk Album by readers of Irish Music magazine. Recently, Tyrrell has contributed music and songs to such projects as “A Necklace of Wren,” a film documentary on the life and poetry of Michael Hartnett, whose poem Billy Mulvihill Tyrrell set to music on The Orchard. Tyrrell has toured with Tommy Peoples, Kevin Glackin, Ronan Brown, Davy Spillane, Three for the Ditch, Paddy Keenan, Little John Nee and poet Mary O’Malley. The University of St. Thomas Center for Irish Studies is pleased to announce its fall cultural outreach series. Events are first-come, first-served. All lectures are free; minimal charge for concerts. No RSVP; no tickets sold in advance. Parking is available for $2 in the Moran Center at West Alabama at Graustark. For more information, contact the Center Director, Lori Meghan Gallagher, J.D., at 713-525-3592 or irishstudies@stthom.edu. ************************* 10/11-12/08 – Constant Billy at Celtic Nations Festival in Lake Charles Saturday & Sunday October 11 & 12, 2008, the CELTIC NATIONS HERITAGE FESTIVAL, Lake Charles, LA. This may be our favorite festival of the year. The organizers get musicians and dancers from all the corners of the Celtic nations, including Welsh and Manx groups. American performers come from all over the country and all are really, really good. Things start at 10am and carry on with festou noz and ceilidhs until late, late at night. We're totally stoked about playing here. If you live in Houston, the festival is right off the freeway and is a short 2 hour drive- nearer than Austin. Check it out!! What: the Celtic Nations Heritage Festival, Lake Charles, LA. Where: Lake Charles Civic Center, Lake Charles LA. Click here for directions. When: 10am-8pm, Saturday & Sunday October 11 & 12, 2008 (actually sessions and dancing go on until the wee hours). How Much: Admission TBA. ************************* 10/18/08 – Irish Society’s Founder’s Celebration at Molly’s Downtown The Founders' Celebration Luncheon will be held on Saturday, October 18, 2:00- 4:00 PM at the new Molly's Pub downtown location. This event will honor the Founding Members of the Irish Society as well as our A.O.H. veterans. All Irish Society members are invited. Guinness will co-host with pub owners, Eamonn Finnerty and Mike Daily. We hope you can join us. Molly's is right on the Main Street Rail Line; take the Preston Station exit and the pub is one and a half blocks south. There's plenty of paid parking nearby as well. ************************* 10/15/08 – Dr David Gleenson: Irish Rebels in the American South at the U of St Thomas Center for Irish Studies Cultural Outreach Series Dr. David Gleeson, a native of Ireland and Associate Professor of History, College of Charleston, Charleston, South Carolina Another Fight for Independence: Irish Rebels in the American South 7:30 p.m. Cullen Hall, 4001 Mt. Vernon Free and open to the public Sponsors: UST Center for Irish Studies Cultural Outreach Forum The Irish Society Irish immigrants actively participated in the Confederacy during the Civil War. Thousands served in the Confederate Army while others worked on the home front. The Irish Confederate record was, however, a mixed one, leaving the status of Irish Confederates as southerners ambiguous. Confederate complaints about foreigners filling the Union Army and Republican appeals to immigrants in the South exacerbated distrust of the Irish. Ultimately, it took Irish opposition to Radical Reconstruction and their participation in the commemoration of the War to repair their image among white southerners. The Irish were accustomed to failed struggles for independence, having seen their own national aspirations disappointed on numerous occasions. Therefore, they were to embrace the new struggle developing around them. Throughout the region, and in various forms, the Irish in the South remembered their Confederate activity in a positive light and thus sealed their place as integrated members of the “New South.” Dr. David T. Gleeson, a native of Ireland, is an associate professor of history at the College of Charleston in Charleston, South Carolina. He teaches southern and Irish American history. He is also a co-director of a Carolina Low Country Program. His first book The Irish in the South, 1815-1877, published by the University of North Carolina Press, won the 2002 Donald Murphy Prize from the American Conference for Irish Studies. He is currently working on his new book The Green and the Gray: The Irish in the Confederate States of America. The University of St. Thomas Center for Irish Studies is pleased to announce its fall cultural outreach series. Events are first-come, first-served. All lectures are free; minimal charge for concerts. No RSVP; no tickets sold in advance. Parking is available for $2 in the Moran Center at West Alabama at Graustark. For more information, contact the Center Director, Lori Meghan Gallagher, J.D., at 713-525-3592 or irishstudies@stthom.edu. ************************* 10/18/08 – Clear Lake Celtic Festival Clear Lake Celtic Music Festival Landolt Pavilion at Clear Lake Park Noon to 10PM NASA RD 1, Houston, Texas Posted Friday, August 22, 2008 9:08 AM 11th Annual Clear Lake Celtic Music Festival & Highland Games So, you want to go to a real party? Saturday, October 18th, 2008: 11th Annual Clear Lake Celtic Music Festival & Highland Games Real men in kilts! One of the most colorful festivals in Houston featuring live music, dance, food and beverages at Landolt Pavilion, Clear Lake Park, NASA Rd 1. Open Noon to 10PM. Admission: $10, kids free. ½ Price Admission after 6PM. ½ Price Beverages after 7PM. Maps and more at: http://www.celticmusicassociation.com/ or call Jeannie Kearns at 713-365-9648. Performance highlights: This year we have Lonestar Stout (Jed Marum, Hugh Morrison, Mason Brown), Celtic Voyage (Grant Dawson, et al), Cass Academy of Irish Dance, and two more stage acts that will be announced soon. The Cass Academy of Irish Dance! No one can get enough of these kids at the festival. Erin Cass has trained the most talented and delightful troupe of dancers you'll see anywhere. Always colorful and incredibly skilled, they'll steal your heart, and the show. http://cassacademy.com/start.htm Proceeds benefit children's education through the International Space School Foundation, KPFT public radio, and St. Brendan's Project. Maps and more at http://www.celticmusicassociation.com/ Visualeyes@msn.com ************************* 10/18/08 – Irish Society’s Founders Party at Molly’s Downtown The Founders' Celebration Luncheon will be held on Saturday, October 18, 2:00-4:00 PM at the new Molly's Pub downtown location. This event will honor the Founding Members of the Irish Society as well as our A.O.H. veterans. All Irish Society members are invited. Guinness will co-host with pub owners, Eamonn Finnerty and Mike Daily. We hope you can join us. Molly's is right on the Main Street Rail Line; take the Preston Station exit and the pub is one and a half blocks south. There's plenty of paid parking nearby as well. ************************* 10/24-26 – O’Flaherty Irish Music Retreat in Midlothian We host a three-day music camp called the O’Flaherty Irish Music Retreat where we teach traditional Irish music on fiddle, flute, harp, whistle, Uilleann pipes, guitar, mandolin, bouzouki, tenor banjo, accordion, concertina, bodhran and piano. We also have classes in singing in both Irish Gaelic and English and a large number of music enrichment classes. Seven internationally-respected Irish players will join the teaching staff this year as guest instructors including Matt Cranitch and James Kelly on fiddle, Mick Moloney on tenor banjo, Mickey Dunne on Uilleann pipes, June McCormack on flute, Pat Egan on guitar and Danny O’Flaherty on singing ballads. The retreat will be held October 24-26, 2008 (always the last weekend in October) in Midlothian, Texas at a comfortable, scenic camp there. For more information, please visit our website at www.oflahertyretreat.org. The event is organized by the Traditional Irish Music Education Society, a non-profit group whose mission is “to assist and encourage people in their learning and playing of traditional Irish music through educational programs and performance events.” ************************* 10/31/08 – Clandestine at the Mucky Duck 7 & ?, $15 ************************* 11/02/08 – Irish Aires program at Miller theater Details to be annonced ************************* 11/14/08 - 2008 Annual Irish Gala 6:30 p.m.: Silent Auction Dinner and Program thereafter Houstonian Hotel, 111 North Post Oak Lane Honorees: Alayne Kane and Honorary Consul of Ireland John B. Kane Chairs: Dorothy and Ray LeBlanc Benefiting the Center for Irish Studies Individual Tickets: $250 Tables: $2,500, $3,500, $5,000 and $7,500 For reservations or more information, contact Abigail Schleuse at 713-525-3173 or schleua@stthom.edu Gather with the Friends of the University of St. Thomas Center for Irish Studies for the 2008 Annual Irish Gala celebrating honorees Alayne and Honorary Consul of Ireland John B. Kane, who are Ambassador Members of the University of St. Thomas Cultural Outreach Forum and Friends of the Center for Irish Studies and the University. Honorary Consul Kane also serves on the Center for Irish Studies Advisory Board. Gala chairs are Dorothy and Ray LeBlanc. Tables of 10 range from $2,500 to $7,500 and individual tickets sell for $250. Funds raised support the UST Center for Irish Studies academic, cultural and study abroad programs. For reservations and more information, contact Abigail Schleuse at 713-525-3173 or schleua@stthom.edu. ************************* 11/21/08 – Blaggards at R&R Sports Bar & Grill in Houston ************************** 11/25/08 – Celtic Thunder in Concert at Reliant Arena Celtic Thunder is a new group and concert special featuring five Celtic male vocalists: Paul Byrom (age 28, Dublin, Ireland), George Donaldson (age 39, Glasgow, Scotland), Keith Harkin (age 20, Derry, Northern Ireland), Ryan Kelly (age 28, Moy in County Tyrone, Northern Ireland) and Damian McGinty (age 14, Derry, Northern Ireland). Taped August 2007 at the Helix in Dublin , the group's debut performance is a celebration of Celtic heritage and men-their loves, attitudes, individuality, power and strength, throughout life's journey. From rousing ensemble numbers to solos showcasing each members' vocal style and personality, Celtic Thunder performs powerful ballads, popular hits, and heartwarming songs of love and loss from across the Celtic music spectrum-Irish, Scottish, traditional and contemporary. Celtic Thunder creator/producer Sharon Browne teamed up with legendary Irish composer Phil Coulter (Elvis Presley's "My Boy," Sandie Shaw's "Puppet on a String," the now-classic Irish ballad "The Town I Loved So Well"), to audition men all over Ireland and Scotland for the group, and craft a representative set list. The eclectic mix of music includes traditional songs ("Mountains of Mourne," "Come by the Hills," "Love Thee Dearest"), pop classics (Paul Anka's "Puppy Love," the Eagles' "Desperado," The Moody Blues' "Nights in White Satin") and Coulter originals (Irish Rugby Football Union anthem "Ireland's Call," "The Old Man," "Steal Away"), accompanied by The Celtic Concert Orchestra, a full band, bagpipes and monks. Choreography, dramatic lighting, visual effects, and a set resembling ancient stone steps and paths enhance the musical production. ************************* 12/07/08 – Danny O’Flaherty’s: A Celtic Christmas A Celtic Christmas Celtic Balladeer Danny O’Flaherty and Others 4-6:30 p.m. Jones Hall, 3910 Yoakum Cost: $10 for adults Students free Tickets at the door Open to the public The cast of A Celtic Christmas will once again celebrate the true Christmas spirit of the Celtic Nations of Ireland, Wales, Scotland, Cornwall, Brittany, Galicia, and the Isle of Man in a one-day only concert. The show will tell the tales of the charming and unique yuletide customs that evolved over the centuries in the nations of the Celts. In December of 1990, Danny O’Flaherty teamed with Welsh harpist, Robin James Jones to present the first Celtic Christmas show. The performance explored old Christmas favorites and songs of the Celtic Nations. It quickly became a holiday favorite at O’Flaherty’s Irish Channel Pub in New Orleans. Over the years, the program has evolved through cast member changes. In 1995, Janet Shea and Michael Cahill joined the cast. The duo worked with Danny O’Flaherty to revamp the production into a concert presentation of stories, dances and songs. Hurricane Katrina put A Celtic Christmas on hold for the first time in fifteen years, but, like the city where it was established, it will return this year to delight audiences once again. Come join cast members Danny O’Flaherty, Janet Shea, Michael Cahill and Misha Kachkachishvili as you slip back in time and savor the yuletide season as it has been celebrated for centuries among the Celtic countries. The cast of A Celtic Christmas will bring the precious ancient gifts of music, song, dance and especially the gift of storytelling to the University of St. Thomas. The University of St. Thomas Center for Irish Studies is pleased to announce its fall cultural outreach series. Events are first-come, first-served. All lectures are free; minimal charge for concerts. No RSVP; no tickets sold in advance. Parking is available for $2 in the Moran Center at West Alabama at Graustark. For more information, contact the Center Director, Lori Meghan Gallagher, J.D., at 713-525-3592 or irishstudies@stthom.edu. ************************* 01/31-02/07/09 – 18th Annual Irish Festival Cruise January 31-February 7 More than 40 hours of traditional Irish entertainment will highlight the 18h Annual Irish Festival Cruise aboard Celebrity Cruise Lines’ Summit departing from San Juan, Puerto Rico. This week long cruise to tropical ports of call -- St. Maarten, Dominica, Grenada, Bonaire and Aruba -- combines the best in Irish music, dance and culture with luxurious Caribbean cruising. Performers include Johnny McEvoy, Cherish the Ladies, Bogside Rogues, The Black Brothers, balladeers Tommy Sands and Liam Tiernan. Also, Don Stiffe, raconteur John Gleeson, seanachie Mike Mazur and world champion Irish dancers Donny Golden and Dan Stacey. The jig will be up when the Matt Cunningham Band takes the stage. In addition to the nightly concerts, there will be a variety of workshops on all things Irish...from learning to dance a jig or speak the Irish language to instructions on the tin whistle and bodhran. Irish Festival Cruise accommodations, for January 31st through February 7th start in price from $1,199.00 per person (based on double occupancy, USD). The price includes all shipboard accommodations, meals and entertainment. The package can only be booked through Irish Festival Cruises, Ltd. ************************* 01/17/09 – Ronan Tynan at the 1894 Grand Opera House in Galveston ************************* 01/31-02/07/09 – 18th Annual Irish Festival Cruise More than 40 hours of traditional Irish entertainment will highlight the 18h Annual Irish Festival Cruise aboard Celebrity Cruise Lines’ Summit departing from San Juan, Puerto Rico. This week long cruise to tropical ports of call -- St. Maarten, Dominica, Grenada, Bonaire and Aruba -- combines the best in Irish music, dance and culture with luxurious Caribbean cruising. Performers include Johnny McEvoy, Cherish the Ladies, Bogside Rogues, The Black Brothers, balladeers Tommy Sands and Liam Tiernan. Also, Don Stiffe, raconteur John Gleeson, seanachie Mike Mazur and world champion Irish dancers Donny Golden and Dan Stacey. The jig will be up when the Matt Cunningham Band takes the stage. In addition to the nightly concerts, there will be a variety of workshops on all things Irish...from learning to dance a jig or speak the Irish language to instructions on the tin whistle and bodhran. Irish Festival Cruise accommodations, for January 31st through February 7th start in price from $1,199.00 per person (based on double occupancy, USD). The price includes all shipboard accommodations, meals and entertainment. The package can only be booked through Irish Festival Cruises, Ltd. ************************** 02/25/09 - The Chieftains at Jones Hall Jones Hall 615 Louisiana Houston TX 77002 Phone: (713) 224-7575 Come hear these six-time Grammy Award winners. The Chieftains have collaborated and performed with some of the biggest names in rock, pop, and traditional music in Ireland and around the world, including the Rolling Stones and Van Morrison. Ireland's premier musical ambassadors will appear with your Houston Symphony. ************************ 03/04/09 – James Galway at Jones Hall Sir James Galway, flute Christopher O’Riley, piano Wednesday, March 4, 2009, 8 p.m. Jones Hall, 615 Louisiana, downtown Houston ********************************************** ON GOING Events: Note: Irish Aires can now be HEARD of DOWNLOADED from the Internet. ALSO, there is a new link to hear KPFT Live Internet listening (live) is available through our MP3 streams. If you have Winamp, Media Player or iTunes installed on your computer, you can connect HERE or http://stream.kpft.org/streamkpft.m3u Free Player Downloads: Winamp Windows Media Player iTunes ---- Irish Aires is also podcast at: http://archive.kpft.org/xml/eire.xml Internet listening (live) is available through our MP3 streams. If you have Winamp, Media Player or iTunes installed on your computer, you can connect HERE or http://stream.kpft.org/streamkpft.m3u Free Player Downloads: Winamp Windows Media Player iTunes ---- Ireland 2007 Pictures Part 1 - http://picasaweb.google.com/JayDooling/Ireland2007 Part 2 - http://picasaweb.google.com/JayDooling/Ireland2007Part2 Part 3 - http://picasaweb.google.com/JayDooling/Ireland2007Part3 Part 4 - http://picasaweb.google.com/JayDooling/Ireland2007Part4 Part 5 - http://picasaweb.google.com/JayDooling/Ireland2007Part5 Part 6 - http://picasaweb.google.com/JayDooling/Ireland2007Part6 Part 7 - http://picasaweb.google.com/JayDooling/Ireland2007Part7 Part 8 - http://picasaweb.google.com/JayDooling/Ireland2007Part8ProbablyFinalUpload New – A Compilation of All my 2007 Irish Pics with music & videos. See instructions on how to see at Irish Aires Blog. ********************* Paisley Close Press Release Date: Fri, 2 Feb 2007 20:28:16 -0600 Over the past few years, I have been asked time and again "Why Paisley Close"? Like every tale you must start at the beginning to get to the end. On November 24th 1861, at a spot along High Street in Edinburgh 's Royal Mile, two overcrowded and decrepit tenements collapsed. According to legend, workers were clearing the debris away when they heard a voice shout out "Heave awa' lads, I'm no deid yet!" As a memorial, Paisley Close (the cul-de-sac) was built in place of the collapsed buildings. Paisley Close (the band) was built by resurrecting former bands-mates. Paisley Close (the band) felt that the young man's luck, tenacity and symbolism was a fitting name. Now with a heavy heart I must announce the passing of this great band. Paisley Close is going through a major transitional period and collectively they have decided to put the band on an indefinite hiatus. The members of Paisley Close remain friends but personal commitments have forced them to make this difficult decision. Through the last three years they have had the opportunity to play on some amazing stages at some of the best festival in the county and for this they are extremely grateful. Even more outstanding has been the people they have met and the friendships forged. That is the biggest aspect that I will personally miss the most. As the bands booking agent I have had the opportunity to meet some of the most amazing directors, coordinator and volunteers; who without you, the show would literally not go on. Thank you for allowing us the opportunity to grace your stages and share a pint or two! I speak for the entire band (Cidnie MacNamee, Bernard Schreiber, Amy Price and Rabbit Boyett) in saying that it has been an honor and a privilege! Although this chapter may be over we raise our glasses to everyone "were not dead yet!" We wish you peace and joy and hopefully will see you all sometime down the road. Sláinte - Cheers, Hopie Lopez-Boyett Booking Agent ---- ************************* The Center for Irish Studies Welcomes Irish Language Professor Aoife Ní Ghloinn The Center for Irish Studies is pleased to announce the arrival of its new Irish language professor, Aoife Ní Ghloinn (pronounced E-fa Nee Glynn). Thanks to a grant from the Irish Government, Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, the University of St. Thomas has employed Professor Ní Ghloinn as a Visiting Scholar to teach the Irish language, culture and music. Prof. Ní Ghloinn hails from Carlow, about an hour south of Dublin. She comes from a bilingual family; both of her parents are Irish speakers. Her father is from Tipperary and her mother is from Donegal. In 2005, she was awarded a Bachelor of Arts degree in Irish language and music from the National University of Ireland, Maynooth, graduating top of both of her classes and receiving academic awards for her scholarly achievements. This academic success led to a scholarship from the Northern Ireland Department of Education and Learning to pursue her studies at Queen’s University Belfast, where she received a Master’s degree, with distinction, in Irish and Celtic Studies. Prof. Ní Ghloinn is also an accomplished musician. She plays the piano, fiddle and guitar, and loves to sing. Prof. Ní Ghloinn has spent the last number of years teaching both English and Irish as second languages, at all levels from elementary school to third level institutions. She is very excited to join us and is looking forward to sharing her love for the Irish language, music and culture with students, young and old, at UST. Fall 2008 Irish Studies Courses Our fall courses start on August 25th! These courses are open for audit. Irish Language Courses Irish I, Mondays, Wednesdays, 3:10 to 4:25 p.m. Irish II, Tuesdays, Thursdays, 3:35 to 4:50 p.m. Intermediate Irish, Tuesday, 5:30 to 8:15 p.m. Professor Aoife Ní Ghloinn; Malloy Hall 023 on the UST Campus Modern Irish Literature Mondays, Wednesdays, 5:30 to 6:45 p.m. Dr. Janet Lowery; Room: Strake 204 Celtic Spirituality Mondays, Wednesdays, 1:40 to 2:55 p.m. Sr. Madeleine Grace; Room: Strake 106 Irish American Experience Tuesdays, Thursdays, 11 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. Lori Meghan Gallagher, J.D.; Room: Tiller Hall 116 2008 Cultural Outreach Forum Ambassador Alayne and Honorary Consul General of Ireland John B. Kane Colleen and George McCullough ExxonMobil Foundation Moran Resources Company, LP Sally and William T. Slick Consul Freebird Partners L.P. Donor Laurie and Dr. Patrick Cook Delia and Chris Cowles/The Shell Oil Foundation Dr. Lida Dahm and Karl Dahm Michael Devine Dr. Charlene Dykman and Dr. Charles Davis Mr. and Mrs. Thomas R. Fox Ann and Tom Hoar Eileen Miggins Hohlt and John Hohlt Jeani and Tom Horan Olivia Howlett Dr. Nancy Jircik Mary Louise Keegan Colin Kennedy Betty and Mike Long Gayle and Robert Longmire Mary Lynch Norma and Dr. Joseph McFadden Michele Malloy Mary and Nugent Myrick Claire Navarre Kathy and Joe Ridley Rev. Ben H. Shawhan Mr. and Mrs. Peter Slot The Shell Oil Company Foundation Dr. Pauline Ward and Britt Crist Anita and Charles Weiner Sponsor (Governmental and Nonprofit Organizations) Irish Government Department of Foreign Affairs ---- Four UST Students Study Free In Ireland This summer, through the generosity of the Innisfree International College & Conference Centre and its benefactors, our UST students studied for two weeks on all-expense paid scholarships in Lough Gill, Sligo, Ireland. The IIC&CC covered the tuition, accommodation, food and local transportation. The Center for Irish Studies awarded each student a $1,000 Bishop McCarthy Scholarship for Study Abroad in Ireland to cover their airfare. The students were Matilde DeLeon, Jessica Langridge, Stephanie Rivera and Susana Svojsik. All of these students responded that these scholarships answered a prayer of a lifetime: to study abroad. This program provided the students with a wide range of cultural and social activities that allowed the students to experience contemporary Irish life and view some of Ireland’s most beautiful scenery. The students took courses in Early History of Ireland, the Archaeological Heritage of Ireland, Irish History—Act of Union to Modern Ireland, Irish Literature and Irish Culture and Traditions. They will receive credit for these courses through UST and the National University of Ireland at Galway. The students stated that one of the most interesting aspects of the program was that they learned about Irish historical and archaeological sites one day and visited those sites the next day. They visited Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery, one of the largest such tombs in Ireland, the Carrowkeel hill top passage tomb and Knocknarea, believed locally to be the burial place of the legendary Queen Maeve of Connaught. They also retraced the footsteps of Irish poet and playwright, W.B. Yeats, as they visited Parke’s Castle, a 17th century fortified manor house, the Lower Rosses, an area close to Yeats’ heart, and the enchanting Glencar Lake and Waterfall, which inspired Yeats to write his poem “The Stolen Child”. The students came home full of enthusiasm for Ireland and their study abroad experience. They described the experience as “wonderful,” “life-changing” and “once-in-a life time”. Matilde DeLeon added: “What made the experience special was the people. We were treated with such hospitality and kindness. The scenery was spectacular, but the culture and its people are what made Ireland so awe-inspiring.” The Center for Irish Studies and the students wish to thank Bishop McCarthy and others who have donated to the Bishop McCarthy Scholarship and who made this experience possible. We also would especially like to thank Jeremiah Lynch, the IIC&CC professors, staff and everyone involved for making this summer abroad experience such a success. Call for Study Abroad Scholarship Assistance In summer 2009, the Center for Irish Studies intends to lead another study abroad trip to Ireland. We plan to take 20 students and two faculty members. Each year, through the Bishop McCarthy Scholarships for Study Abroad in Ireland, the Center for Irish Studies offers scholarships to each of the students who study in Ireland. With $40,000 as a target for 2009, we request your assistance in raising these scholarships to help our students defray the cost of their airfare and other expenses. Several years ago, the Center created a scholarship fund in honor of Bishop McCarthy, who is a member of the Center for Irish Studies Advisory Board, a UST alumni and a beloved member of our Irish community. Please help us reach our goals and honor Bishop McCarthy! ---- Wednesday Nights at 8ish PM. The Mucky Duck continues a twenty-five year tradition, hosting Houston's Irish Session. The Mucky Duck incarnation of the Session, if for no other reason than the frequent participation of younger musicians, gives a very real sense of tradition passed on and history handed down. The most visible Celtic-influenced traditional bands around Houston -- make participating in the Session a regular, energy-charging part of their regular routine. What is celebrated is the whole of Celtic culture, and a musical tradition that, over the centuries, has become as much American roots music as bottleneck guitar. The drums of western Africa are what gave American music its rhythm; more often than not, though, the melody is Celtic. The popularity of Celtic folk music is either a testament to the timeless appeal of these sometimes haunting, sometimes hilarious, sometimes jig-inspiring tunes, or perhaps an argument in favor of the nebulous theory of racial memory. Celtic blood-ties real, suspected and imagined have given many the impetus to learn the folk-arts of the ancient tribes; that's just one reason why the Wednesday night Session at the ` is as much a school and tribal gathering as a musical event. This is a great way to explore Irish music and tradition. Music starts at 8pm, and there is no cover charge.2425 Norfolk Houston, TX 77098 713.528.5999 Phone Be sure to check our calendar in case we have booked a special show that might preempt our regular Irish Session ---- Ar mhaith leat Gaeilge a labhairt? Would you like to speak Irish? Beginning Irish Conversation Jason’s Deli Westheimer & Shepherd 2611 S Shepherd Dr Houston, TX 77098-1561 If you are interested in learning a little Irish then come join us at Jason’s Deli on Wednesday evenings at 7:00 P.M. This Irish class is tailored to the beginning student who has had no prior exposure to Irish. You will learn basic conversational greetings, helpful phrases, informative tips for traveling through the Gaeltacht such as common signage, asking directions and most important of all how to pronounce those mystical Irish words. Pocket phrase books do the tourist no good unless they know how to pronounce what they are reading! This course provides the beginning student with phonetically spelled out Irish words, something most beginning tape and book courses fail to offer. If you have any questions please contact Tim Theisen (tyson) at Jeaniebotl@aol.com or phone me at (713) 263-9691 If you are interested please come join us on Wednesday evenings at 7:00 P.M. There is a $5.00 donation to cover cost of the handouts. Labhraímis Gaeilge is linne í ! Speaking Irish is cool! ---- Learn Irish Gaelic! (Katy Class) SATURDAY - Beginning Conversational Irish (and every Saturday for the next few months) Katy, TX 10 AM - Noon Self-Study Group Using Interactive CDs, Books, Tapes, and other materials for spoken and written Irish. Class moderated by an advanced American student of the language. $7 per class to cover costs. $5 for Irish American Heritage Association members. Call Pat McMahon at 713-271-0784 for location and directions, or e-mail patpmcmahon@aol.com location: The Carriage Inn, 1400 Katy- Flewellen Road in the Computer Room ---- Wednesdays, 7-10 pm SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCING AND MORE http://home.att.net/~diannashipman/SCDM.htm New Dancers Welcome - Families Welcome (children must be accompanied by parent / guardian). $5 for those 14 and over; $2.50 those under 14 ($15 maximum per family) - fourth consecutive Wednesday free. 1st Wednesdays: FREE at Churchill Room, Black Labrador Pub 4100 Montrose Blvd. Map (Montrose near Richmond) 2nd, 3rd, 4th & 5th Wednesday Location: Oddfellows Hall, 115 E. 14th St. (Heights), Houston, Texas (3rd building on left traveling east from Heights Blvd. - 2 story red brick - entrance recessed about 15 feet from street - dancing upstairs). LINKS ON WEBSITE with map & photo (Map) http://home.att.net/~diannashipman/MapOddfellows.gif PHOTO OF HALL: http://home.att.net/~diannashipman/OddfellowsHall.jpg ---- The Irish American Heritage Association of Katy, Texas. We meet the fourth Tuesday of each month at 7:30pm at the Municipal Utility District Building on Cimmaron Pkwy at Hidden Canyon Rd (just west of S Mason Rd) in Katy, Texas to enjoy speakers, performances, and presentations on Ireland and the Irish. We also publish a monthly newsletter, The Irish Heritage News. For more information or directions, please call: Bridget Connelly . . 281-492-8780 Mike Long . . . . . . 281-395-3038 Dennis Donlan . . . 281-392-0894 OR www.texirish.org E-mail us at: info@texirish.org ---- Thurs Night Irish Session @ Coffee Oasis on NASA Rd One Session starts about 7:30PM every Thurs night 4650 NASA Road 1 Seabrook, TX 77586 281.532.1439 You are likely to see Laura (of Echoes of Ireland) or Tom (of http://www.texasbagpipes.com/) http://www.texasbagpipes.com/ http://www.bayoucitypipesanddrums.com/ ---- CELTIC CHORUS OF HOUSTON Do you like to hum or sing along with the music played on Irish Aires or The Three Irish Tenors? Then join us every Thursday night at Black Labrador Pub, 4100 Montrose Blvd. (Montrose near Richmond) NEW TIME: 7:00 - 9:00 P.M. We will join together in a sing-a-long session and then later those who wish to learn four part music may stay and learn choral music of Ireland, Scotland and Wales. If you need more information contact Richard McGinty 713-943-9600 or e-mail r.e.hourich@excite.com The mission statement reads in part: "to provide a community meeting place for those interested in the Celtic heritages." The first half of the evening focuses on singalong songs and the second half on choral arrangements. The singalong songs: Will You Go Lassie Go The Minstrel Boy Sally Gardens Molly Malone (In Dublin's Fair City) Finnegan's Wake The Foggy Dew Black Velvet Band Mcnamara's Band Danny Boy When Irish Eyes Are Smiling The Unicorn Song I'm Lookin' Over A Four Leaf Clover Whiskey In The Jar The Wild Rover The Bard Of Armagh Choral Arrangements: Danny Boy The Minstrel Boy An Irish Blessing My Wild Irish Rose ---- New Galveston Session Starting: Poor Michael's Pub in Galveston (2007 Strand) wants to start a regular session at their establishment. All levels of musical expertise (including those who just like to listen) will be welcome! Contact Michael at galvston@yahoo.com or call him at 409-762-1967 to get more details. Also, Poor Michael's has some employment opportunity for bartenders. ---- "One hundred thousand welcomes!" This age-old Gaelic greeting is a timeless _expression of Scottish hospitality and goodwill. We can't think of a better way to welcome you than to invite you to Houston's Heather and Thistle Society (H&T). The Heather and Thistle Society was founded in 1953 by Scots living in Houston who wished to "cultivate an interest in and fond recollections of Scotland, its history and traditions, its literature and ideals, its minstrelsy and song, its customs and amusements; and to provide opportunities for good fellowship and social contact through typically Scottish functions, so that the blessing of our Scottish culture may never die in our new homeland". The Heather and Thistle Society meets 10 times a year, September through June. Programs include "ceilidhs", lively lectures, slide shows and movies about Scotland. We are an organization that promotes our Scottish heritage in various ways. Membership in the Heather and Thistle Society is open to all with an interest in Scottish Heritage and Culture. Annual Dues are $10.00 for an individual and $15.00 for a family. H&T meets the fourth (4th) Monday of each month, September thru June, at 7:30 P.M. Current meeting location: Auditorium of St.Thomas Episcopal School, 4900 Jackwood, Houston, TX 77096 http://www.stes.org/contact.htm ---- Royal Scottish Country Dance Society Dancing General Class Mondays - 7:30-9:30 p.m In progress Classical Arts Dance Studio, 530 N Illinois, League City - Contact Moon Weiss, 713-465-9650, mland121@aol.com Basic Class Tuesdays - 7:30-9:30 p.m. In progress DewAnn Cotton Dance Studio, 9423 Glenfield Court (By S. Braeswood/Hillcroft) South West Houston For info: Carol Palmer, 713-776-8531, carolhpalmer@hotmail.com General Class Thursdays - 7:30-9:30 p.m In progress DewAnn Cotton Dance Studio, 9423 Glenfield Court (By S. Braeswood/Hillcroft), South West Houston Teacher: Bill Zobel, For info: Carol Palmer, 713-776-8531, carolhpalmer@hotmail.com ---- Stepdancing & Ceili classes O'Maoileidigh School of Irish Dance Houston, TX Sundays starting at 9:30 AM For more information contact newmembers@omaoileidigh.com http://www.omaoileidigh.com/ ---- Step Dancing Lessons Stepdancing Lessons McTeggart Irish Dancers The Woodlands, Texas More info@ http://www.irishdancehouston.com/ 936-321-6583 *With over 60 dancers and 21 Championship dancers McTeggart Irish Dancers of South Texas have a lot to be proud of. *Last year they had 6 dancers travel to Killarney Ireland for the World's Championship in Irish Dancing. These dancers faced up to 150 of the world's top dancers in their age groups. Two of the dancers did very well: Zane Glotzbach placed 24th and was 5th out of all the U.S. competitors and Annelise Rubbo placed 33rd overall. *Last year they had 21 dancers travel to Norfolk, Virginia for the Southern Region Championships, also known as "Oireachtas". Most of these dancers placed high in their age groups, with 3 receiving first place: Annelise Rubbo, Zane Glotzbach and Shannon Powell. From this competition a dancer qualifies for the World's Championship and Annelise Rubbo, Jaclyn Rubbo and Zane Glotzbach achieved this accomplishment. *Another well-known International competition is the All- Irelands. Later in January 2004, Annelise Rubbo and Jenna Pace will be traveling to Ennis, Ireland to compete. *Also in 2004 several dancers are heading to Philadelphia for the North American Nationals Competition, held each July. In addition, McTeggart Irish Dancers of South Texas hopes to have over 25 dancers travel to North Carolina for the next Southern Region Championship. *A new beginner class started Sunday, Jan. 11.For information on classes or performances, go to http://www.irishdancehouston.com/ or call 936-321-6583 ---- "The Maguire Academy of Irish Dance" Come join us at our first weekly class for our new school starting this Sunday (12/16/07) Classes will be every Sunday from 4PM To 5:30PM at Amy Blakes Academy Of Dance Located At The Intersection Of Thor St And Bay Area Blvd. On January 13, 2008, there will be a Master Class from 1PM to 4PM (The workshop cost is $40 for a 4 hour masterclass). We are opening up in the Clear Lake area and would love to have all interested in learning Irish dance, come and join our school. About us: Darren Maguire is a former lead male dancer in Riverdance the Show, world champion level dancer, and fully accredited TCRG/ADCRG with the Irish dance commission in Dublin, Ireland. Richard Tew is a national, and regional champion level dancer, and regional senior men's champion in 2003. Richard is also a TCRG candidate having already taken and passed most of his requirements. Amy Blake's Academy of Dance" located at: 2150 Bay Area Blvd. Houston, TX 77058 Our weekly classes are being planned right now, and will be at the same location as the workshops. Please either email: rttew@yahoo.com or call 281-989-3575 Thanks, Richard Tew ****************************************** Community Annoucements: Wedding Announcement Bill Galbraith & Emily Standish Have Announced Their MARRIAGE! Bill and Emily play Celtic music as CONSTANT BILLY. ---- Support The Pat Finucane Centre Today! (Poster's Note: This organization really needs the support of all Irish & Irish Americans. The family has suffered so much and the PFC has done so MUCH for MANY Irish causes. TODAY, please write a check OR even better, go to their web site: http://www.patfinucanecentre.org/ You can make a donation with PayPal online & it will only take a minute. We should all try to make AT LEAST a $20 contribution (a $100 would be better. Jay) ****************************************** SUPPORT THE PAT FINUCANE CENTRE From: "Pat Finucane Centre" info@patfinucanecentre.org Date: Thu, 6 Oct 2005 15:36:49 +0100 Subject: Urgent Appeal To Friends & Supporters. An Urgent Appeal To All Friends And Supporters Of The Pat Finucane Centre. Dear Friend of the PFC, This is an urgent appeal for donations! We are in the red! The Pat Finucane Centre, though Derry based, has had an impact far beyond the north west of Ireland. Earlier this year a reception was held at the Guildhall in Derry to honour the work of the Centre. Families and individuals travelled from 11 of the 32 counties in Ireland, and from Scotland and England, in itself ample testament to the respect felt in the wider community. The work of the centre over the last year has included; -organising public meetings with the Mayor of London on the End Impunity Campaign, - research on collusion that has resulted in a number of cases currently being heard before the European Court of Human Rights at Strasbourg, -participating in the Advisory Group on the Sean Brown murder investigation, -logging all sectarian /racist incidents from June 2005 to September 2005 (the log will be available soon) -giving evidence to Committees of both the Irish and British parliaments, -initiating a number of investigations into conflict related deaths by the Police Ombudsman's office, -reenacting closed meetings of the Policing Board as street theatre and --applying to the Guinness Book of Records to have Rosemount PSNI barracks logged as the least used police station in the world! The ongoing day-to-day advocacy on behalf of families is largely confidential and hidden from view but the Centre works with over 120 families who have lost relatives in the conflict. In addition individuals approach the Centre with complaints and are referred to solicitors and/or to the Police Ombudsman. Against this background it will come as no surprise to realise that the centre deliberately steers away from official funding that is linked to the NIO. Stubbornly independent as it is the Centre is largely dependent on individual donors. The Pat Finucane Centre website carries the following quote from Geraldine Finucane, 'If you believe in shaping stronger human rights protection then invest in the Pat Finucane Centre and those who find themselves in the frontline in their work to defend human rights. ' The Centre urgently requires donations in order to continue that work. There is no money in the bank! Please respond this week! Note. Donations can be made by cheque or online (today!) through the secure Paypal system at http://www.patfinucanecentre.org/ Postal address: The Pat Finucane Centre, 1 West End Park, Derry, BT48 9JF Ireland (North). Telephone: +44 28 71 268846 Fax: +44 28 71 266453 Email: info@patfinucanecentre.org ****************************************** Ireland Photos Pictures from Ireland in 2006 To See Irish pics, click the following: http://new.photos.yahoo.com/rdooling@swbell.net/album/1152921504621152084 ---- :: Irish Aires Has A Brand New Blog!! (actually we have two!) http://irishairescurrentevents.blogspot.com/2005/01/irish-aires-has-brand-new-blog.html Below are links to hear broadcasts & playlists. If you have RealAudio, a soundcard & speakers on your computer, you should have no problem listening to the shows, EXCEPT that if too many people are trying to access the stations audio files at once, you might get an error. Try back later. ---- :: Rory Oliver Miggins, RIP http://www.legacy.com/houstonchronicle/DeathNotices.asp?Page=Lifestory&PersonId=99249818 Rory Oliver Miggins RORY OLIVER MIGGINS, 52, entered into life everlasting on December 7, 2007, in his parental home in the shadow of St. Anne's Church, after a valiant 3-month battle with melanoma. Rory was born in Houston, Texas on September 11, 1955, the first-born of 12 children of Kathleen and Larry Miggins, who survive him. Rory was a natural competitor. He had a distinguished athletic career at St. Thomas High School in basketball, baseball, and, particularly, football, garnering All- District, All-State, and All-American honors as running back. Rory graduated from St. Thomas High School in 1974. He graduated from the University of Houston in 1979 with a BBA in Finance. He was a lifelong athlete, playing baseball for 16 years with the Houston Men's Senior Baseball League, most recently with the Colt 45's during the spring of 2007. During his 29-year career as a marine manager with ILA Local 1351, Rory rose to Class A rank and served on its Executive Board. It was through his work at the Port of Houston that Rory developed a love of the waterfront, prompting him to form the Waterfront Association that sponsored the Waterfront Fishing Festival for many years dedicated to cleaning and beautification of the environment. Rory's love of music, fostered by his Irish heritage, inspired him to create an East End legend, Local Charm, a venue for regional blues, rockabilly, country, and zydeco bands where he lived by the motto "You are a stranger here but once." His eclectic music bar launched many new talents in the 80's and 90's. He was recognized for these efforts and was appointed the 2008 Honorary Chair of the Musician's Benevolent Society that he co-founded in the 80's. An example of Rory's originality and creativity is the first ever St. Patrick's Day Snake Races held at Local Charm. Always interested in Texas history, Rory joined the Texas Army and achieved the rank of Colonel. He was also recognized as a Knight of Texas for his work in connection with the annual Greening of the Bayou for St. Patrick's Day. In addition to his parents, Rory is survived by his 11 grieving siblings, their spouses, and his 15 nieces and 16 nephews to whom he was a terrific uncle: Eileen Hohlt (John), Mary, John, and Annie Hohlt; John (Debbie), Christine, Julia, and Matthew Miggins; Larry (Sherl), Thomas and Laura Miggins; Maureen Swanson (Pat), Fiona, Patrick, Brian and Kenneth Swanson; Noreen Gottschalk (Stephen), Robert and Daniel Gottschalk; Matthew (Penelope), Gabriella, John, and Maria Miggins; Kathleen Hibbler (Jim), Elizabeth, Conor, Bridie, and Rory; Neil (Serena), Charlie, Jack, and Adelaide Miggins; Robert (Julie), Lily, Carlo, and Patrick Miggins; Patrick (Nancy) and James Miggins; and Michael (Abby), Molly, Cate and Lucy Miggins. Rory's surviving aunts and uncles include John and Helen Miggins of Tunxis Village, CT; Rita Miggins of Boca Raton, FL; Eileen (Rory's godmother) and Jake Hoppenthal of Artesia Springs, CA; Thomas and Margaret McMahon of Chicago, IL; Andy and Ann McMahon of Melbourne, Australia; and Bridie and Jimmy Morrissey of London, England. He has countless cousins, world-wide, who survive him, many of whom supported him with visits and phone calls during his illness. In addition to his activities noted above, Rory was a member of many other families including St. Anne's parish, the Houstonian Club, Art Car Parade Commission (founding member), the Orange Show Commission, the Waterfront Association, the Texas Army, Slippery Rock Booster Club, Idylwood Civic Club, St. Patrick's Parade Commission, Houston Blues Society (founding member), Dick Dowling Irish Heritage Society (founding member), The Irish Society, The Seaman's Center, and St. Thomas High School Alumni Association. Never was Rory's loyal and diverse network of friends more evident than during his illness when they kept his spirits high and ministered to his spiritual needs. Rory wanted to express his appreciation to the doctors and nurses at MD Anderson who did their best to arrest his cancer. Showing his indomitable spirit, just last Monday, Rory said "I'm your man" if a clinical trial became available. Neither the Miggins family nor Rory could have faced the challenge of this vicious disease without the loving expertise of Rory's brother-in-law and Noreen's husband, Dr. Stephen Gottschalk, who tirelessly trouble-shot on Rory's behalf. The family will receive friends at St. Anne's Catholic Church, 2140 Westheimer (at Shepherd) on Monday, December 10 from 5 8 pm, with the rosary recitation at 7 o'clock. The Funeral Mass will begin at 10:00 am on Tuesday, December 11, with a light luncheon to follow in the parish hall. Following the luncheon, Rory's remains will return to his beloved East End for interment at Forest Park Lawndale. Rory's pallbearers are his seven surviving brothers. For those desiring, memorial contributions may be made in Rory Miggins' name to: · The Hole in the Wall Gang (a fund for crippled children) c/o ILA 1351, 7524 Ave. N, Houston, TX 77012; · St. Thomas High School, Rory Miggins Memorial Scholarship, 4500 Memorial, Houston, TX 77007; · St. Anne School Foundation, 2120 Westheimer, Houston, Texas 77019; · The St. Brendan Society, c/o Jeannie Kearns, 10220 Memorial Drive #131, Houston, TX 77024. " Fare thee well, my child, forever. In this world we have lost our joy. But in the next we will never sever. There we'll find our darlin' boy." Sign guest book at: http://www.legacy.com/houstonchronicle/GB/GuestbookView.aspx?PersonId=99249818 :: George F. Little, RIP (Pete Little’s Father) September 2, 2006, of Depew, NY, husband of the late Muriel C. Little; father of Mary Catherine (James) Spilman, Michael (Ann), David (Elisabeth Alvarsdotter), John (Barbara), Margaret (Kevin) Craig, Anne Militello, Stephen (Maureen), Jeanne (Paul) Konetzny, Peter, Teresa, Maureen; brother of Eleanor Rigdon, Catherine Little; grandfather of 20; great grandfather of 18. Memorial Mass to be announced. Memorial contributions may be made to Rapid Response Home Care Program at Millard Fillmore Hospital, Gates Circle. Published in the Buffalo News on 9/7/2006. ---- Nina Simon passed away. She was the mother Ciaran Simon's (of Mr C's Pub in Houston) and the wife of Harry Simon of Cleveland. The following obit was posted online at: http://obits.cleveland.com/Cleveland/DeathNotices.asp?Page=LifeStory&PersonId=115892758 You can go there and leave a message for Ciaran. Eileen "Nina" (Cooke) Simon EILEEN "NINA" SIMON (nee Cooke), age 85, died Sunday, Aug. 17, 2008. Beloved wife of Harry; loving mother of Frances, Declan, Melanie and Ciaran; grandmother to Daniel, Moira and Aislinn (deceased); sister, aunt or cousin to the Cookes, the Foleys, Hills, Synnotts and O'Sullivans. Nina was an avid gardener and loved fashion and the theater. She had a special affinity for The Bard. She was a member of St. Clement parish for 50 years and served as a Eucharistic Minister and Lector. She volunteered many hours to numerous charitable causes. She loved to sew and bake. A Memorial Mass will be officiated by her dear friend Fr. Alfred Winters at St. Clement, 2022 Lincoln Ave. on Tuesday, Aug. 19 at 10 a.m. In lieu of flowers, a charitable donation may be made to the Multiple Myaloma Foundation or to "Genesis Medical Education and Research Institute" (MERI) in Memphis, TN. Special thanks to the staff at Harborside Nursing Home and Cleveland Clinic Hospice for their loving care. www.cleveland.com/obits ---- :: AL CAMPBELL (Houston Highlanders Bagpiper )(1931- 2006) It is with great sadness that we inform our membership that our friend and piper, Al Campbell, passed away last evening. Over the years, we could always count on Al to support H&T with all our piping requests. He gave generously of his time, and was a very special contributor to our Society. In addition to his dignified performances, Al had great humor which he occasionally added for fun and laughter. We shall miss him. Our special condolences to his wife, Betsy, his family and close friends. ---- :: PHILLIP JAMES CONNELLY, of Katy, passed away on Thursday, August 11, 2005 in a Houston hospital at the age of 74 years. Phillip James Connelly was born on September 14, 1930 in Tulsa, Oklahoma to Paul and Peggy Connelly. He graduated from Holy Family High School in Tulsa, Oklahoma and the University of Oklahoma. He served his country during the Korean War as a Lieutenant in the U.S. Army based out of Fort Sill, Oklahoma. On April 4, 1964, he married his beloved wife, Bridget Imelda Corr. He retired from General Electric's Lighting Division after 30 years of service. Phil was a founding member and former president of the Irish American Heritage Association of Katy and a member of the Irish Society in Houston, Texas. He was a member of the Epiphany of the Lord Catholic Church, in Katy, and a member of the Knights of Columbus, 4th Degree, Assembly 2721. He was also a friend of Bill Wilson. He was a life long Democrat. Phil was an active participant in the Forever Young Group in Epiphany, as well as many other organizations. He is survived by his wife, Bridget Imelda Connelly of Katy; his sons, Mike Connelly of Keller, Texas, and Tim Connelly and his wife Sylvia of Ardmore, Pennsylvania; and his grandson, Sebastian Connelly. He was preceded in death by his parents, Paul and Peggy Connelly; and by his brother, Jack Connelly. Those wishing to make memorial gifts may do so to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, 5005 Mitchelldale, Suite 115, Houston, Texas 77092-7230 or to your favorite charity. ---- Other Irish Celtic Calendars & Sources: Scottish Country Dancing & More: http://home.att.net/~diannashipman/Calendar.htm Houston Irish Development Assoc: http://www.houstonirish.org/calendar/calendar.shtml Texas Celtic Music Network Calendar http://texcelt.org/Calendar.html Southwest Celtic Music Association http://www.scmatx.org/main.htm Texas Scottish Heritage Society http://www.txscot.com/ Houston Chronicle Search for World Music Local bands http://www.chron.com/COMS/BandsPub/pub.mpl?actionfiltered=searchbands&nextview=bandsearch&submit1=&submit2=2&band_name=&genre=World Houston Press World Music Listing http://listings.houstonpress.com/gyrobase/Music/Results?genre=13765&keyword=&date=
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