Desert Shamrock Aug-Sept 2017 e-Magazine

January Aug-Sept – February 2017 ~2015 Arizona’s ~ Arizona’s Original Original Irish Newspaper Irish Newspaper ~ Vol. ~ 28, Vol. No. 26, 4 No. 1

ARI

SPECIAL EDITION INSIDE! Arizona’s Lauren Koll and 17 North American Roses of Tralee

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OUT & ABOUT

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AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017 THE DESERT SHAMROCK

Don’t Miss MIM Exhibit!

Camille Crujido, the new Marketing Associate at Musical Instruments Museum, Phx

Chandler Police Chief Sean Duggan and his wife, Mary, at the King Oak at Charleville Castle, Tullamore, County Offaly, Ireland

Guinness World Record Attempt Kilt Run 96° Glendale, AZ on March 16, 2017 1. Fox-TV’s Ron Hoon and kilt runners 2. Glendale Mayor Jerry Weiers (lft)

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2014 New York Rose Kathleen “Katy” Edsall and Brian J. Siegel married on January 15, 2017. MEGHAN CROTTY PHOTOGRAPHY WWW.DESERTSHAMROCK.COM

THE DESERT SHAMROCK AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017

Tralee!

Quick look at fabulous desserts and tea!

the street level. The beautiful old cellar restaurant is the perfect place for a cozy night out! Early bird pricing and specials on the menu.

Say hi to Eileen for me!

Enjoy life and blessings, and a good read!

Ann Niemann Editor in Chief and Publisher

4 No. 1 26, No. Vol. 28, ~ Vol. ~ Irish Newspaper Irish Newspaper Original Original ~ Arizona’s Arizona’s 2017 ~2015 – February Aug-Sept January

ARIZONA

SPECIAL EDITION INSIDE! Arizona’s Lauren Koll and 17 North American Roses of Tralee

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PHOTO BY THE BLISSFULBABY PHOTOGRAPHER, ASHLEY HALL

1717 Denny 17 Denny 17 Denny 17 Denny Street, 17 Denny Street, Denny Street, Street, Tralee, Street, Tralee, Street, Tralee, Tralee, Co. Tralee, Co. Tralee, Kerry Co. Kerry Co. Kerry Co. Kerry |Co. Tel: Kerry | Tel: Kerry | Tel: 066 | 066 Tel: | 7181400 Tel: 066 | 7181400 Tel: 066 7181400 066 7181400 066 7181400 7181400 www.finneganswinecellar.com www.finneganswinecellar.com www.finneganswinecellar.com www.finneganswinecellar.com www.finneganswinecellar.com www.finneganswinecellar.com

Celebrate with the Celtic Community All Year.

Janua January ry-Fe – Febru bruar ary y 2017 2015~~Arizon Arizona’s a’sOrigin Original alIrish IrishNewsp Newspaper aper~~Vol. Vol.28, 26,No. No.11

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Serving the Celtic Community 2320 E. Baseline Rd., #148-623 Phoenix, AZ 85042 • (602) 568-3455 Visit www.DesertShamrock.com • E-mail: info@desertshamrock.com Owner & Editor in Chief • Ann Niemann Publisher • Niemann Publishing, Inc. Art Direction, Design & Layout • Erin Loukili, Jaclyn Threadgill Masthead Design • Elaine’s Design Emporium Contributing Columnists Janice Bryson • J Carro • Sharonah Fredrick Katie Caufield Ginder • Brian Hanrahan • Ellen Harrington Carmelita Lee • Iain Lundy • Lynn Herdman Mascarelli Maureen & Jack Sullivan • Eric McBride Chris Stevenson Kristie Stevenson • Marshall Trimble • Bob Wallace Lois Wallace • Liz Warren • Jan Whalen • Caroline Woodiel

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PUBLISHER’S NOTE

When you’re in I

’ve been coming to the Rose of Tralee International Festival starting in 2010.

This is the first year to miss but don’t you miss two wonderful restaurants owned by my friend, Eileen Nolan! Both are located side-by-side on Denny Street in Tralee, County Kerry, Ireland.

Mary Anne’s Tearooms was recently featured in a German home and garden magazine. Mary Anne Hickey and her husband Bartholomew came from a farm in Crinne outside Castleisland. She had 10 children and 54 grandchildren, of which Eileen is one. She loved baking and entertaining friends and family at her home and these tearooms are dedicated to her memory.

Tralee’s finest Georgian architecture dates back to the 1800s, with this building originally owned by the Denny family, (Denny Street is named in their honor). Finnegans Restaurant is situated in the basement via a staircase from

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AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017 THE DESERT SHAMROCK

SeamusMcCaffreys.com

24th Annual

(602) 253-6081 SeamusMcCaffreys.com 18 West Monroe Phoenix, Arizona 85003

Claire McManamon

2017 Southern California Rose of Tralee

www.SouthernCaliforniaRoseofTralee.org The Rose of Tralee International Festival is one of Ireland's oldest and largest festivals along the Wild Atlantic Way with participation from over 65 worldwide Rose Centers with the universal goal of promoting the Irish culture among modern Irish women.

1 8 We s t M o n r o e P h o e n i x , A r i z o n a 8 5 0 0 3

Arizona’s Favorite Bagpiper NEW LOCATION - COMING SOON!

Listen to music samples at www.thebagpiper.com

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1 North 1st Street, Suite 102, PHOENIX THEKETTLEBLACKPUB.COM

www.KiltRentalUSA.com info@kiltrentalusa.com 7655 E. Redfield Rd., Suite 8 Scottsdale, AZ 85260 1.877.KILT.SHOP 480.460.0907

Friends of Saint Patrick Centre, Downpatrick, Northern Ireland

Valerie Hanna, 2017 Young Ambassador, Arizona Chapter

Valerie Hanna studied political science at the University of Arizona (Bear Down!). She interned in Washington D.C., and on statewide campaigns before launching her career in the Arizona Governor’s Office. Valerie now serves as the legislative liaison for the Arizona Lottery. Her family traces back to Counties Cork and Clare. She enjoys dancing ballet, being involved at her church, and hard cider. Read about her trip to N. Ireland in Jan-Feb 2018 edition.

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THE DESERT SHAMROCK AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017

TABLE OF

CONTENTS August/September 2017 ~ Arizona’s Original Irish Newspaper

ARTS

HISTORY

8 10th Annual Anam Cara Awards Gala in Phoenix 27 Poetry Review: Second Childhood by John Montague

CULTURE

6 Irish Tales from Arizona Territory: TRAVEL Touring Southern Arizona

6 Arizona: Did you know?

7 Arizona History Experts: Bryson and Trimble

Arizona Chapter 14-20 FEATURE: 2017 North American Roses of Tralee 21 Sister Cities: Chandler Artist Co-Chairs Postcard Exchange with Tullamore 23 WELSH: Simon Dale and his Hobbit House 24 Keltic Kitchen: Irish Nachos – Delicious Pub Grub You Can Make at Home BACK – Dream Center Network USA and Worldwide

TRAVEL 3 Don’t miss this: While you’re in Tralee!

12 Left Lane Maureen, Part 20: The “Wild Atlantic Way” Driving Route 22 SCOTS: Scotland Bucket List – Union Canal 22 SCOTS: “The Worlds” Bagpiping Championship

OUT & ABOUT 2 Photo Galleries (mini this edition)

EVENTS

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400 years of Irish rebellion in the Americas

DIRECTORIES

2 Dragons and Vines exhibit at MIM, Phoenix 8, 9, 25 Irish Cultural Center & McClelland Library EVENTS, Phoenix 13, 25 THEATRE: A Bench in the Sun, Phoenix 25 Celtica! Chorale Auditions 13, 25 Irish Network AZ Breakfast & Speaker 3, 14, 25 Rose of Tralee Int’l. Festival, Ireland 25 CONCERT: Ruaile Buaile from Ireland, Prescott

County Donegal, Ireland

11 Celtic Pubs and Eateries 26-27 Organizations, Sister Cities, Dance, Musicians, Clans

CALENDAR 25 Schedule of Events

25 CONCERT: Annual AZ Celtic Women, Phx

SNEAK PEEK: 28th Anniversary Edition

What a year! People, Places, Events

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Left Lane Maureen Part 20

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CYMRU: Simon Dale and his Hobbit House

The “Wild Atlantic Way” Driving Route WWW.SIMONDALE.NET

No. 1 26, 2 28, No. r ~ Vol. r ~ Vol. pape pape News News nal Irish nal Irish Origi Origi na’sna’s ~ Arizo ~ Arizo 20172015 uary pril – Febr arych-A Mar Janu

Januar Januaryy-Febr – Februa uary ry 2017 2015~~Arizon Arizona’s a’sOrigin Original alIrish IrishNewsp Newspaper aper~~Vol. Vol.28, 26,No. No.11

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January May-June – February 2017 ~ 2015 Arizona’s ~ Arizona’s Original Original Irish Newspaper Irish Newspaper ~ Vol. ~28, Vol. No. 26, 3 No. 1

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Eliza Lynch, Paraguay

10 400 years of Irish rebellion in the Americas

4 2017 Young Irish Titleholders 13 Valerie Hanna, 2017 Young Ambassador,

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AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017 THE DESERT SHAMROCK

Irish Tales from Arizona Territory

Touring Southern Arizona

ARIZONA:

Did you know?

Bisbee Street Scene USED WITH PERMISSION BY GLEN PETERSON, PHOTOGRAPHER

Michael Brophy on the right with his wife Sabina, daughters Helen and Mary, brother-in-law Ed Flanigan USED WITH PERMISSION BY STEPHEN BROPHY

BY JANICE RYAN BRYSON

A

road trip to Cochise County in Southern Arizona is a great opportunity to visit the sites where our early Irish pioneers settled and left behind a rich history and a wonderful legacy.

Check out Tombstone; yes, it is definitely a tourist site. However, it is a National Historic Landmark with many of the original buildings remaining. The three story former Cochise County Court House is a wonderful museum telling the history of Tombstone. In the museum, be sure to check out the school bell from the Gleeson School; a city located 18 miles from Tombstone. It was founded by Tipperary native John Gleeson who discovered the rich Copper Belle mine.

The 1881 census records report that 559 Irish born were living in Cochise County as were hundreds of Americans of Irish origin. The Tombstone Epitaph noted “The Irish are the least clannish of

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the foreigners and mix indiscriminately with other peoples, while the English invariably live together.”

The city was home for a number of years to Nellie Cashman, known as the “Angel of Tombstone” for giving much of her wealth to needy prospectors, frontier hospitals and church missions. She also held fancy dress balls as fund raisers for the Land League back in Ireland.

Next head on to Bisbee, “The Queen of The Copper Camps”.

In 2016, Bisbee earned the title of Best Historic Small Town in both Sunset magazine and a USA Today online reader poll. Many Irish came to this city hoping to strike it rich. Be sure to take a Queen Mine tour outfitted in a hard hat, miner’s headlamp and a yellow slicker to give you a small insight into what mining was like in the many underground mines in the area.

The Bisbee Mining and Historical Society Museum is the place to visit for the history of the Bisbee area.

Photographs show the many ethnic groups who lived in Bisbee. The James Letson family represents the Irish population.

James met and married Maggie Doheny from County Clare in Bisbee. The couple were successful owners of a number of properties and the Turf Saloon. They built the brick Letson Block after a disastrous 1888 fire in the city; the second story of the building now houses a bed and breakfast. Bisbee offers a number of bed and breakfast locations, antique shops and

Exploring Jerome If you live in the Valley of the Sun, Jerome is a great day trip or even an overnight stay. The Connor Hotel built by David Connor in 1898 is still in operation. The city, built on the east slope of Mingus Mountain, became one of the largest mining towns in the West. The Verde Valley Copper News devoted almost the entire issue of the March 17, 1920 edition to stories about the Irish in Jerome and how much was owed to the Irish pioneers who settled in that city.

restaurants as well as the historic Copper Queen Hotel. St. Patrick’s Roman Catholic Church was built in 1916; a basilican structure of Gothic style with 31 Victorian stained-glass window.

Bisbee’s Brophy family, hailing from County Kilkenny, ranched in the Sulphur Springs Valley during the days of Apache raids. William established the Bank of Bisbee and Bank of Douglas while Michael worked to modernize Bisbee putting in a water system as well as electric power and a localized telephone service. Both brothers were involved in the building of the historical Gadsden Hotel in Douglas.

Janice Ryan Bryson descended from Irish Pioneers who arrived in the Arizona Territory in the 1880s. She is co-founder of the Irish Arizona Project and co-author of the book Irish Arizona. Janice was named an Arizona Culture Keeper for her research on the Irish in our state and is a recipient of the 2015 Anam Cara Award.

55. Prior to President Abraham Lincoln signing the Arizona Organic Act on February 24, 1863 to create Arizona Territory, Arizona was part of the territory of New Mexico.

56. Camels were imported in the 1850s to survey the future Route 66 across northern Arizona.

57. Santa Cruz County (1,237 sq. miles) is the smallest of Arizona’s 15 counties, but is larger than more than 72 countries.

58. There are 11.2 million acres of National Forest in Arizona, and one-fourth of the state is forested. [The country of Ireland totals almost 17.5 million acres in comparison.]

Read more fun and fascinating facts about Arizona NEXT edition.

PHOTO BY GARY M. JOHNSON

HISTORY

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Of Irish descent and Arizona’s Official State Historian, Marshall Trimble has been called the “Will Rogers of Arizona.” He’s a “cowboy philosopher,” educator, lecturer, author, folk singer and stage performer, and appears frequently on radio and television. He created and taught Arizona history at Scottsdale Community College for forty years where he was also Director of Southwest Studies.

THE DESERT SHAMROCK AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017

SALEM, NH 603-898-5130 FAX 603-898-5113

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PHOENIX 602-944-5400 FAX 602-944-3154

MANUFACTURERS REPRESENTATIVES

JOE LEWIS

P.O. Box 1768 Salem, NH 03079

10611 N. 11th St. Phoenix, AZ 85020 jhlreps@aol.com

Electrical, Mechanical, Plastics, Metals, and Contract Mfg. Joe Lewis Cell 617-510-9260 Joe Jr. 603-365-1301

Sunday, October 1, 2017 · 7:00 p.m.

Full season listing

ChandlerCetnter.org

Pictured in an exhibit with Janice Bryson

480.782.2680

Sunday, March 11, 2018 · 3:00 p.m.

Sunday, March 18, 2018 · 7:00 p.m.

ARIZONA HISTORY EXPERTS: BRYSON AND TRIMBLE PHOTOS BY ANN NIEMANN

Marshall Trimble performed at AZ Heritage Center at Papago Park WWW.DESERTSHAMROCK.COM

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AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017 THE DESERT SHAMROCK

ARTS

PHOTO BY BOB RINK

Anam Cara Awards Gala in Phoenix

10th Annual

BY CAROLINE WOODIEL

L

ast year, the Irish Cultural Center and McClelland Library’s annual Anam Cara (“soul friend”) Gala was a night to remember. Famed Irish Tenor Anthony Kearns treated guests to the sounds of Ireland on a warm October evening with the library’s castle lit beautifully as a backdrop. It was as if for just one evening the Irish Cultural Center in Phoenix was transported to Ireland itself.

This year, the Irish Cultural Center and McClelland Library are bringing the Anam Cara Awards Gala and its guests back to Arizona with a focus on this incredible state and the lasting impact of the Irish in Arizona. Previous honorees of the Anam Cara Award include retired Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O’Connor; architect Paul Ahern; sitting U.S. Senator John McCain; Arizona’s own Irish Cowboy, Bill O’Brien; and CEO and philanthropist Norman McClelland.

The 2017 Anam Cara Award honorees, John Corcoran and Pat McMahon, like the WWW.DESERTSHAMROCK.COM

honorees who came before them, have put their own special Irish touch on the great state they call home.

John Corcoran is a name many in the local Arizona Irish community are familiar with. John was born in Castlemaine, County Kerry. Despite the distance between where he was born and the warm desert of Arizona, John is one of the founders of the Phoenix St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Faire. As the Parade chair, John works year-round to ensure the celebration—always on a Saturday, scheduled to fall on March 17 if it’s the actual date or the Saturday before—is one to remember for Phoenicians of all ages. The 35th annual event falls on March 17, 2018.

John Patrick Michael “Pat” McMahon is a fixture in the world of entertainment and news in the state of Arizona. Pat is best known for his portrayal of numerous characters on The Wallace and Ladmo Show, a daily children’s variety program. He is also a longstanding fixture on the Phoenix broadcasting scene where he has served as program director, disc jockey, and talkshow host. Pat has long been a supporter

of the Irish community through his various broadcasting positions and always strives to speak positively about his heritage.

Please join us on Saturday, October 14 in celebrating these two incredible individuals. Ticket prices for the exclusive event will begin at $150 per person for members of the Irish Cultural Center and McClelland Library. Live music, a silent auction, and a full sit-down meal will make the annual Gala an evening to never forget.

The 10th annual Anam Cara Awards Gala will raise funds for the Irish Cultural Center and McClelland Library, which together provide educational and cultural programming for the Phoenix community through classes, exhibits, and special events.

This year’s cultural season of programming is focused on a theme “Peace and Reconciliation” in honor of the 20-year anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement.

The 2017/2018 season will include an exhibit on the Bogside murals of Northern Ireland, public lectures, film showings, and a series of book discussions.

History, music, art, dance, literature, drama, crafts, language, genealogical

research, travel, sports, and traditions of the Emerald Isle and other Celtic cultures are presented year-round in conjunction with the seasonal schedule.

Corporate and private sponsorships are also available for the special night.

Gala sponsors assist in creating a memorable evening filled with wonderful company, delicious food, excellent live entertainment, and shopping some great auction items but, more importantly, sponsors contribute to helping expand the hearts and minds of the Irish community in Arizona.

Tickets will go on sale on the Irish Cultural Center and McClelland Library website at azirish.org. Purchase your tickets or sponsorship in advance and honor John Corcoran and Pat McMahon for their years of support to the community while simultaneously supporting rich cultural programming in the Valley of the Sun. The Gala promises to be a great night of music, laughter and craic; a gathering of friends old and new.

Caroline Woodiel is a hobby photographer, border collie enthusiast, and librarian with ancestors of both Irish and Scottish descent. She holds a Bachelor’s of History from the University of Colorado and a Master’s of Library and Information Science from the University of Arizona. Caroline is the Public Services Coordinator for the McClelland Irish Library in Phoenix.

C E L E B R AT E FAL L Sunday, September 17 Annual Fall Tea 2PM - 5PM

Sunday, September 24 Annual AZ Celtic Women Concert 2:30PM - 5PM Saturday, September 30 2017-18 SEASON EXHIBIT AND LECTURE SERIES

Peace and Reconciliation: The 20th Anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement

Book Discussion, Exhibit Opening and Public Lecture

PEACE BRIDGE

Saturday, October 14 10TH ANNUAL

Anam Cara (Soul Friend) Awards Gala 5:30PM - 10PM See the calendar and directory in this issue for more information about us.

Summer 2017 Public Walk-In Hours (Tours, Library & Genealogy) Memorial Day to Labor Day 10AM – 3PM Wednesday & Thursday 3PM – 6PM Wednesday Evenings (Library and Genealogy only)

Closed August

Scheduled tours by appointment only

Summer Office Hours

10AM – 3PM Tuesday – Friday

Fall/Winter/Spring Regular Hours: 10AM – 3PM Tuesday – Saturday 3PM – 6PM Wednesday Evenings (Library and Genealogy only)

Closed all major holidays Open Additional Hours for Scheduled Classes, Meetings & Events

1106 North Central Avenue Phoenix, Arizona 85004 602.258.0109

azirish.org info@azirish.org The Irish Cultural Center and McClelland Library are divisions of the Irish Cultural & Learning Foundation and are owned and maintained by the City of Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department.

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017 THE DESERT SHAMROCK

PORTRAIT BY JOSÉ GIL DE CASTRO

HISTORY

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Bernardo O’Higgins holding the Chilean Constitution

A MOST UNUSUAL ODYSSEY: FROM THE 16TH CENTURY THROUGH THE 20TH

400 years of Irish rebellion in the Americas

Eliza Lynch, long-time companion of Paraguayan dictator Francisco Solano López, c.1864

BY ADAM FULHAM, EPIC IRELAND MUSEUM, DUBLIN AND DR. SHARONAH FREDRICK, TEMPE, ARIZONA

T

he Irish in the New World shatter a historical paradigm: that of the age of Empire and its disregard for the Native civilizations of the Americas. The reason for that is because the Irish were themselves the victims of the Age of Empire. Ireland was also colonized during the 16th-18th centuries and turned into a vice-regency (the Stuart rulers copied, almost verbatim, Spanish colonial organization in Mexico, Colombia and Peru, and transposed it to the Emerald Isle).

Because so many of the Irish were brought to the Caribbean as indentured servants, beginning in the 17th century, and because they melded with African and Native populations on those islands, their affinity was not with the imperial overlords, but with those people marginalized by the imperial nations. These “outsiders” included the English, Portuguese, and Spanish poor, who saw little cause in supporting their own crowns, which discriminated against them economically, on virtually the same scale that the Irish, the Jews, the Africans

and the Native Americans, were discriminated against ethnically.

Resistance by Irish Pirates

Hence the “peril” and “danger” which the Irish, according to English and Spanish colonial chronicles, constituted. The 16th, 17th, and 18th century Irish, transplanted frequently against their will to the Americas, had a knack for sedition, and for making intercultural bonds. Hence Ann Bonney, born on March 8, 1702 in Kinsale, and raised by her slave-holding father in Charleston, was doubly dangerous. Not only was she one of the most feared (or admired, depending upon who is telling the story) female pirates of the Caribbean, but she socialized with renegade English soldiers (such as her husband, Calico Jack, and her first mate, Englishwoman Mary Reade) and with Africans who had escaped both their European slave traders and the princes from the Congo and Angola who had sold them.

Irish and Mayan Intermarry

In Honduras, many of the Mayan Indians speak affectionately of the “caracoles” (the word means “snail” in English): a mixed Irish-Mayan group that begins to form in the late 16th century. They took the

name “caracol” as a gesture of defiance against the colonial powers of that time.

Like the snails of the Honduran coast, they were “lighter-skinned” on the outside and “darker” within-a cultural mixing that gave them the ability to move between Western and Mayan Indian worlds.

Famous and Infamous Irish in the Americas

This anti-colonial trend continued in the 19th century, as much of Latin America was shaped by those with roots in the Emerald Isle. Argentina’s navy was founded by Mayo man William Brown, while Chile’s founding father, Bernardo O’Higgins, was the son of a Sligo man.

Cork woman Eliza Lynch, ‘the Queen of Paraguay’, is both loved and vilified in equal measure for her role in the War of the Triple Alliance—a devastating conflict which killed most Paraguayan men. For Arizonans, though, it is the name of the Saint Patrick’s Battalion which is most familiar. This was a group of largely Irish soldiers who defected from the United States to Mexico during the conflict of 1846-1848. Their complex motivations ranged from anti-Catholic sentiment experienced within the American army, to

moral opposition against the invasion itself.

Perhaps the most famous Irish-Latin American of modern times has been left-wing Ernesto ‘Che’ Guevara Lynch, whose father once quipped: “the first thing to note is that in my son’s veins flowed the blood of the Irish rebels…” Many of Guevara’s right-wing counterparts also had ancestral connections to Ireland, including Argentine President Edelmiro Farrell, whose rule preceded the influential Juan Domingo Perón. Over half a million Argentinians today are thought to be of Irish descent, some of them based in cities and towns like Hurlingham and Murphy.

Fighting Injustice

The early 20th century saw Irish influence grow as Roger Casement, the future revolutionary in Ireland, exposed horrific human rights abuses committed in the Brazilian and Peruvian Amazon by rubber production companies. Eamon Bulfin, just years later, became known as the man who raised the Irish tricolour over the GPO during the 1916 Easter Rising. Bulfin came to Ireland after spending the first 16 years of his life in Buenos Aires.

Sharonah Fredrick is currently co-editing a book of essays for Ibero-Vervuet publishers, about the influence of Peru’s greatest indigenous chronicler: Guaman Poma. She has a PhD in Latin American Colonial Literature; MA in Renaissance History; and BA in Cultural Anthropology.

She’s multi-lingual; attended Yeats Summer School and Merryman Literature Summer School in Ireland, as well as doing independent study in the Donegal Gaeltacht, and summer courses at Trinity College, Dublin.

Originally from Dublin, Adam Fulham works for EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum and is owner of LatinAmerica.ie, an upcoming website for the Irish in Latin America. As well as Chile and Spain, he once lived in Washington D.C as part of a Northern Ireland peace program.

C

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Celtic Pubs & Eateries

If you're looking for some Craic, look no further!

Greater Phoenix The Dubliner Irish Pub & Restaurant 3841 E. Thunderbird Road, #111, Phoenix, AZ 85032 (east of AZ-51); 602-867-0984 www.dublinerpub.com Arizona’s original Irish pub and very first to serve Guinness on tap, Irish and American fare, games on big-screen TV, live music six nights a week.

Gallagher’s Sports Grill 7575 N. 16th Street, Phoenix, AZ 85020 (16th Street & Morten); 602-997-0084 3220 E. Baseline, Phoenix, AZ 85042 (NE corner of 32nd St. & Baseline); 602-437-0981 34406 N. Black Mountain Parkway, Cave Creek, AZ 85331 (Carefree Hwy. & 48th Street); 480-595-8800 751 E Union Hills Drive, Phoenix, AZ 85024 (7th & Union Hills); 602-867-3222 6750 W. Peoria, Peoria, AZ 85345 (north side of Peoria at 67th Avenue); 623-486-2118 www.gallaghersaz.com Discover a great tasting menu, HD sports, daily and late night specials, weekend breakfast, karaoke, trivia and OTB!

The Harp Irish Pub 1744 S. Val Vista Drive, Mesa, AZ 85204 (just south of US-60 in Dana Park Village Square) 480-507-7827 www.theharpaz.com An Irish pub from our interior to our menu. We offer a perfect blend of modern and comfort Irish/American food and drinks in an authentic atmosphere. Dueling pianos Fridays 9pm; live music Saturdays 8pm.

The Irish Wolfhound Restaurant & Pub 16811 N. Litchfield Road, Surprise, AZ 85374 (just south of Bell Road) 623-214-1004 www.irishwolfhoundpub.com Bringing a little piece of Ireland to the desert. Featured on PBS “Check, Please!” with award-winning Corned Beef & Cabbage and Guinness Battered Atlantic Cod.

The Kettle Black Kitchen & Pub 1 N. First Street, #201, Phoenix, AZ 85004 (between Washington and Adams) 602-651-1185 www.thekettleblackpub.com Late night restaurant, bar and grill. Jimmy Culleton and Tom Montgomery bring you another great gastrobpub menu and Irish atmosphere. Grand opening was packed! See ad page 4

Mountain View Pub 7033 E. Cave Creek Road, Cave Creek, AZ 85331 (west of crossroads: Tom Darlington & Cave Creek) 480-575-7782; (480)-5757PUB Facebook: Mountain View Pub - Cave Creek Extensive lines of Irish whiskey and beers. Irish influenced pub fare.

Amazing mountain views experienced from our indoor/outdoor bar and patio!

O’Connor’s Pub 2601 W. Dunlap Avenue, #7, Phoenix, AZ 85021 (east of I-17) 602-997-7714 www.oconnorspub.com Where You’re A Stranger Only Once! For some good ol’ Irish hospitality in the Valley of the Sun, drop in the best Irish pub in Phoenix!

Rosie McCaffrey’s Irish Pub 906 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix, AZ 85014 (additional parking on 10th Street! 100 feet away!)

602-241-1916 www.rosiemccaffreys.com Irish owned and operated pub in central Phoenix serving good food and drink, the traditional Irish way, showing all Celtic FC matches, daily specials. Sláinte!

Rúla Bula Irish Pub and Restaurant 401 S. Mill Avenue, Tempe, AZ 85281 (between University and Rio Salado Parkway) 480-929-9500 www.rulabula.com Downtown Tempe, old world pub serving traditional and contemporary pub fare. Draft craft beer, premium whiskies and specialty cocktails.

Daily Happy Hour. Live Music weekends. See ad page 7

Séamus McCaffrey’s Irish Pub 18 W. Monroe Street, Phoenix, AZ 85003 (adjacent to historic Hotel San Carlos) 602-253-6081 www.seamusmccaffreys.com Downtown Phoenix’ Original Irish Pub & Restaurant. Est.-1991. Corned beef & cabbage, Irish stew, fish & chips, full menu, weekend brunch, AZ’s largest whiskey menu, 10 on tap, open late. See ad page 4

Tim Finnegan’s Irish Restaurant & Bar NEW LOCATION - COMING SOON! www.timfinnegans.com Evokes images of the great old pubs of Ireland with blend of modern Ireland’s music, food, beverages. Featured on PBS “Check, Please!”

Arizona #404 | Chapter 2 of 3. See ad page 4

New customers are looking for you!

Accepting Celtic listings in Arizona.

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PHOTO BY LAURIE BRAMMER

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017 THE DESERT SHAMROCK

DRIVING TIPS FROM LEFT LANE MAUREEN

PART 20:

The “Wild Atlantic Way” Driving Route

excellent seafood restaurants serving fish freshly caught that day.

Spectacular Aquatic Opps

On the surf coast, a region of the Wild Atlantic Way, adventure awaits you as you experience the crashing waves of the famous Sligo beaches. Surfers from as far away as Australia have come to catch these awesome waves!! Another great experience is kayaking the rugged seacoast, as well as some of the inland loughs (lakes) and rivers.

Isles to Explore

Wild Atlantic Way in County Donegal PHOTO BY JOHN SULLIVAN

BY MAUREEN SULLIVAN, CTC

I Kinsale Harbour, southern tip of Wild Atlantic Way

PHOTO BY EOGHANMAC

TRAVEL

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reland’s “Wild Atlantic Way” stretches 1,600 miles along Ireland’s west coast, formed by the rough, unrestrained waves and the untamable tides of the powerful Atlantic Ocean.

With the constant meeting of the ocean against the west coast, a deeply indented terrain has emerged with mystical islands.

It’s an epic, signposted route which will far exceed you wildest expectations! A great place to start is the wind-whipped tip of Malin Head in the northern Inishowen Peninsula of County Donegal, rambling all the way down to the picturesque town of Kinsale Harbour in County Cork.

Driving the Wild Atlantic Way along the west and south coast with its amazing coast line—encountering Slieve League sea cliffs, Cliffs of Moher, Aran Islands, Dingle Peninsula, Drombeg Stone Circle, the Galley Head Lighthouse and Kinsale—is an unbelievable journey!

But, it stretches over 1,500 miles, which is more than you can do in one trip to Ireland, unless you have unlimited travel time. So, you have to select which of the different stages of the route you would like to experience. Plot your own course for a trip of a lifetime.

Wilderness Adventures

Southeast landing at Skellig Michael WWW.DESERTSHAMROCK.COM

To enjoy the wildness of the Wild Atlantic Way, you must get out of the car frequently and take some hiking adventures!

There are many tourism trails that must be walked to explore the magical seacoast.

Go to the viewing platform at the granite cliffs of Slieve League, by hiking the trail along the ridgetop of the cliffs. For those who are unafraid of heights try the stretch known as “One Man Pass”. The Burren Way has many walking and hiking trails from Lahinch along the coast to Doolin and then through the Burren National Park. Along the way, you will find

Scattered along Ireland’s west coast are a myriad of islands in the Atlantic.

You can take a boat or ferry out to the islands where old traditions and the Irish language have been preserved. Off the Donegal coast is Arranmore Island. Clare Island off Mayo is also a ferry journey, while Achill Island off the Mayo coast can be reached by driving across the Michael Davitt Bridge. To the west of the Galway coast are the Aran Islands, Inishmore, Inisheer and Inishmaan, whose ferries leave from Rossaveel or Doolin.

Skelling Michael Island where “Star Wars” was filmed, can be reached by boat from Portmagee in Country Kerry; we recommend some mild training before ascending its peak via 600 steps of mostly jagged stone.

More Coastline

The Dingle Peninsula is a grand place for walking with many marked trails. You can drive Slea Head Road beside the edge of the ocean. Or, go horse backing riding on the beach, but don’t miss Dingle Whiskey Distillery and Dingle Crystal.

In West Cork, at the tip of the Mizen Peninsula stands the Mizen Head Lighthouse, the most westerly point in Ireland. You can walk out and across the famous white concrete suspension foot bridge, as the waves swirl 150 feet below.

Outside Glandore is the Drombeg Stone Circle, which was a prayer circle and a meeting place for the Druids, before the time of Christ. Also, our very own family Sullivan Cottage is located on the Glandore Road.

Spend a day in the town of Kinsale.

It has a delightful coastal walk along the piers begging to be explored. In the summer, yachts from all over the world converge on Kinsale for yachting regattas.

You will find the Ireland you dreamed about, but thought was only to be found on post cards.

The Wild Atlantic Way has an amazing coast line with many more walking trails than I have described, but it’s the people you meet along the way who make it unforgettable!

Maureen and John (“Jack”) are the owners of Sullivan’s Travels, Inc. Maureen has been a travel professional for 25 years, moving their business to Phoenix four years ago. www.sullivanstravels.com

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THE DESERT SHAMROCK AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017 Mother is Mary Patricia Doyle of the Doyle clan from County Galway, Ireland

Phone: 480-671-0207 • Cell: 847-481-9149 Phone: 480-671-0207 • Cell: 847-481-9149 480-617-5961 Fax:Fax: 480-617-5961 • www.sullivanstravels.com maureen@sullivanstravels.com • www.sullivanstravels.com maureen@sullivanstravels.com 67%

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Vice President

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Grandparents: John O’Dowd emigrated 1929 to NY from Castlebaldwin, Co. Sligo and Ellen Greevy from Roscommon 1938.

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Colleen O’Dowd Cutler

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FHA, VA, Conventional and Reverse Mortgages

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Mary Kallemeyn Independent Sr. Sales Director 602-978-0598 - Home 623-986-4708 - Cell mkallemeyn@cox.net www.marykay.com/mkallemeyn

Grandmother Anna Kerr missed the Titanic because of family illness but emigrated later in 1912 from Belfast

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NEXT NETWORKING EVENTS: “A Bench in the Sun”

Saturday, August 12 • 7pm Comedy by Ron Clark with actor Lee Cooley

Thomas P. Murphy, CPA

Don Bluth Front Row Theatre, Scottsdale Tickets: 480-314-0841 (ask for Irish Network group seating)

21639 N. 12th AveNue, Suite 203 • PhoeNix, ArizoNA 85027 (623) 581-0375 • FAx (623) 581-9242 Grandfather Murphy born in County Westmeath and Grandmother in County Longford, Ireland

Dinner with Friends Thursday, September 28 • 6:30-8pm

Skeptical Chymist Irish Pub • 15689 N Hayden Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85260

2017 YOUNG IRISH TITLEHOLDERS Sophia Looney

Kaeleen Giardina

Maggie Powell

Arizona Irish Lass

Little Miss Shamrock

Little Miss Shamrock WWW.DESERTSHAMROCK.COM

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017 THE DESERT SHAMROCK

Search for the 2017

RoseS of Tralee

Each of the North American Roses featured in this edition were asked to provide The Desert Shamrock with a 225-word bio along with a collage of photos that represents her personality, interests, and accomplishments.

All of these Roses represent articulate, personable, talented young women among the Global Irish. They are amazing!

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ast year, Chicago Rose Maggie McEldowney was selected as the Rose of Tralee. After a world tour, she now returns to Ireland to culminate the search for her successor. 65 Roses from Ireland and Irish communities around the globe will travel to Kerry for the seven-day festival, Dáithí Ó Sé returns to the Rose Dome to present the 2017 Rose of Tralee, who will be crowned live on RTÉ on Tuesday 22nd August (available to livestream at rte.ie).

Those young women representing their county, city, state or nation, will travel to Tralee in August to enjoy everything that Ireland’s flagship family festival has to offer—gala functions including the Rose Ball, the Rose Tour and much more. T The 58th Annual Rose of Tralee International Festival is 16-22 August. This year’s street festival will include over 80 hours of FREE entertainment for people of all ages with three parades, two fireworks displays, marching bands, world-class street performers with a variety of styles and visuals. Tickets are available to see the latest trends at the Autumn Winter Fashion Show, delicious flavours at the Taste Kerry Food Expo and party fun at the late night discos.

Maggie shares, “It is a celebration of all that is good about being Irish. There is so much more that happens beyond the TV show in August. I was blown away by the amazing people I met during last year’s Festival and I am thrilled to be part of the search for the 2017 Rose of Tralee.”

As the Lead Sponsor of the Rose of International Festival, Tipperary Crystal will present, the 2017 Rose of Tralee with a complete collection of Tipperary Crystal Fine Jewellery, and a range of high quality products from their Giftware and Homeware Collections. She’ll wear the splendid new tiara featuring the Rose motif as the central framework, adorned in glistening crystals; and receive the exquisitely crafted Crystal Perpetual Trophy.

The next Rose of Tralee will drive away from Tralee in a brand new KIA from McElligotts Tralee, a World Travel Prize valued at €25,000, a weeklong holiday in Kerry from Kerry County Council, a tablet complete with a year’s subscription to Independent.ie, and a bouquet from flowers.ie while Sean Taaffe Group will look after all the hair styling needs of the 2017 Rose of Tralee.

Every return visit to Tralee during the 2017 Rose of Tralee’s reign will be spent in comfort at the magnificent 4-star Rose Hotel, the home to the Rose of Tralee International Festival.

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NEWFOUNDLAND AND LABRADOR ROSE

OTTAWA ROSE

Katie HanlonWadman

Vanessa Foran

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am 19 years old and I live in Paradise, NL. I am currently completing my Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering at Memorial University of Newfoundland.

I decided to pursue Engineering after participating in a program that places High School girls in Science and Engineering positions to promote interest in the field. I am very determined and hard working, having earned seven scholarships for school.

Life long learning is something that I am very passionate about. From tutoring high school students, to discovering something new each day, my love for learning is tremendous. In my spare time, I love to swim, hike, camp, rock climb, cook, and volunteer.

My love for camping and volunteering came from my nine years with Girl Guides of Canada. Most recently I have volunteered with GoodLife Spin4Kids while working at ExxonMobil, and the Community Food Sharing Association.

My Irish Heritage originates from my father’s side of the family. My three times great grandfather Timothy O’Connor was born in Kilkenny, Ireland and settled in Placentia Bay, NL in the late 1800s. As well, my great grandmother Hellen Connors (née Henry) was born and raised in Belfast, Ireland and came to Newfoundland as a war bride after marrying Thomas Connors in 1944. O’Connor became Connors for sounding “too Irish”. I am very proud of my Irish and Newfoundland Heritage and the impact it has had on my life.

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PHOTO BY ALISON SLATTERY PHOTOGRAPHY

NORTH AMERICAN ROSES OF TRALEE

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am a 22-year-old student completing my Bachelor of Social Sciences degree at the University of Ottawa with a specialization in International Development and Globalization. I grew up in Whitby, Ontario and moved to Ottawa to study in French Immersion and be in a bilingual environment.

After completing my studies, I plan to obtain a master’s degree in International Development and I am interested in working for a non-governmental development organization.

I have volunteered locally as well as internationally from my time helping to build a school in Tanzania, to being Vice President of Internal Affairs for the University of Ottawa’s International Development Conference. Throughout my studies I have worked in heritage and tourism at the Capital Information Kiosk in Ottawa, educating tourists about Canada’s history. I also worked as a tour guide at the Canadian National Vimy Memorial in France for four months, where I was able to teach visitors about Canada’s participation in the First World War. I was proud to have the opportunity to visit France, the country of my ancestors on my mother’s side. I am now looking forward to be visiting the land of my Irish ancestors for the first time this summer. My Irish roots are on my father’s side as my great-great-grandfather, John Foran Jr. immigrated from Castlegregory, County Kerry to Canada in 1840 to Huron County, Ontario.

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1. As a Canadian, I frequently drink Tim Horton’s; photo taken after a two-day power outage at Tim’s for heat and warm food.

2. Personal Protective Equipment at FMC Technologies Canada tool inspection. 3. Aiming at tin cans with a Daisy Red Ryder BB Gun

1. With my parents Carole and Pat Foran, at the Toronto Rose Selection Gala 2. In front of Parliament Hill while working as Heritage Interpreter 3. Holding a medal for winning a hockey final in 2009

THE DESERT SHAMROCK AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017

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i! I’m 26 years old and was born and raised in Toronto. I am half French Canadian and half Irish.

My grandparents, aunt and uncle hail from Dublin.

I went to an arts high school to follow my passion for visual arts (I’ve been painting since I was 7, had a solo show at the age of 12 and had three pieces hanging in the Four Seasons Hotel in Toronto for 8 years). I also grew up playing the piano (a Bechstein that was brought to Toronto from Dublin!), and figure skating.

I went to Wilfrid Laurier University, where I majored in Psychology and minored in French (I’m bilingual, and currently learning Spanish). After my degree, I took a year off to work and travel. I went back to school to get my Master’s degree in Fashion Theory from Ryerson University.

After school (and traveling solo through South America for five weeks), I started my career as a business etiquette consultant at Corporate Class Inc. I loved it, but something was missing! I am still a contractor there, however I’ve now joined a non-profit tech start-up full-time!

Some of my hobbies and passions include: painting, working out, traveling (almost 30 countries so far) volunteering, animals (including my babies at home–a ball python and a budgie), high-adrenaline sports (like sky-diving), hiking, and living and promoting a vegan lifestyle.

feel truly honoured to be representing Western Canada in the 2017 Rose of Tralee International Festival! My father was born and raised in County Cavan, Ireland and at the age of nine, my father took me on my first trip to Ireland. I have been in love with the green Emerald Isle ever since.

I am 27 years old and living in Calgary, Alberta, in close proximity to the Rocky Mountains. I’m originally from Winnipeg, Manitoba but moved to Halifax, Nova Scotia at 18, to attend Dalhousie University to pursue my dream of completing a civil engineering degree. In 2013, I moved to Calgary to work for a small environmental consulting firm and today, I feel extremely blessed to be working as an environmental engineer.

I love to spend my time outdoors, especially snowboarding and hiking. I have a love for the arts; primarily painting, metalsmithing, writing and photography. Yet my passion is Irish dance. I train twice per week, and volunteer my time, teaching at my Irish dance Academy once per week. When the weather is nice, most of my weekends are spent travelling Alberta and British Columbia in my 1986 Westfalia VW camper van.

I am very proud to be an Irish Canadian, and I feel truly blessed to represent the country I adore and the Irish culture, which has shaped me.

Lauren Koll

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ello! I am 23 years old and received my Bachelors of Science degree in Education and Human Sciences from the University of Nebraska, Lincoln. I live and work in Chandler, Arizona and am proud to call this amazing place my home.

I am committed to creating a positive impact to the communities that I live and work in. I worked in a local shelter to feed the homeless. This was an eye-opening experience, which inspired me to volunteer in college at the Friendship Home, a shelter dedicated to helping women and children who were fleeing domestic violence. Currently, I am working with the City of Chandler in a neighborhood rehabilitation grant to assist low-income families.

I am very family focused and love any and all time that I am able to spend with my family and our yellow Labrador dog, Hobbes. Whenever possible, I love to take long walks or hikes with family and friends. Having these outings allows me to see the beauty of the world.

My family’s Irish heritage originates on my mother’s side in Clonmel, County Tipperary, and on my father’s side in County Wexford, Ireland. I have a love of life and try to live by the Irish saying of “Dance as if no one were watching, sing as if no one were listening, and live every day as if it were your last”.

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1. Hang-gliding over Rio de Janeiro! 2. Me on one of Toronto’s most watched TV channels talking about what a messy desk says about your personality! 3. One of my favourite moments volunteering at an elephant sanctuary in Thailand.

1. Snowboarding in Revelstoke, British Columbia 2. Hiking near Emerald Lake in Yoho National Park, Alberta 3. My boyfriend, Micah, and I at Beauvert Lake in Jasper National Park, Alberta

1. Venice, Italy 2015 with my grandmother Helen Asche 2. Ireland Trip with Chandler, AZ-Tullamore, Ireland Sister (Twinned) Cities 3. Interlaken, Switzerland

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NORTH AMERICAN ROSES OF TRALEE

Colombe Sinead Aingeal McGahern Nadeau-O’Shea I

ARIZONA ROSE

PHOTO BY THE BLISSFULBABY PHOTOGRAPHER, ASHLEY HALL

WESTERN CANADA ROSE

TORONTO ROSE

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NORTH AMERICAN ROSES OF TRALEE

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AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017 THE DESERT SHAMROCK

BOSTON & NEW ENGLAND ROSE

CHICAGO ROSE

FLORIDA ROSE

Orlaith Roche

Teresa Daly

Elizabeth Marince

ello, I am 26 years old, living in the heart of Boston, Massachusetts, where everyone dreams of being Irish! My Dad was born in Wexford, Ireland and my Mom is from Ennis, Co. Clare - they met when my Dad attended the famous Bunratty Castle Banquet where my Mom was a singer about thirty years ago - my Irish fairytale. I am the youngest of four, two boys and two girls.

I was born in Boston, but my most vibrant childhood memories are from when I was living in Ahane, County Limerick. The rolling hills instilled in me the desire to roam and connect with nature. I have an exciting career as a lifestyle and fashion model here in Boston. Modeling has led me to an amazing role as a mentor and coach, working with young woman to build self-confidence and a healthy balance in their lives. Along with years of Irish dance, I have a passion for keeping fit and strive to be healthy.

My adventurous Irish spirit and curiosity for culture has brought me to many exciting places around the world. I am thankful for my grandparents, along with aunts, uncles, and cousins who’ve made Ireland a home away from home. Being a Rose is such an honor for not only myself, but my forever proud Irish family.

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am 27 years of age and grew up in Kanturk, County Cork with my parents, Charles, a local dairy farmer and Brigid, a former nurse and proud Kilkenny woman. I have two older brothers.

I was educated locally at Lismire National School and Scoil Mhuire Secondary School, Kanturk. I completed a BSc Honours Food Science degree at University College Cork in 2013. I was fortunate to join Kerry in Naas, County Kildare, through the graduate program as a Research and Development Scientist. I relocated with Kerry to Beloit, Wisconsin working as a Technical Business Development Manager.

I enjoy travelling, adventure and exploring new cultures. To date, I’ve visited nineteen states across North America and have explored much of Europe and Asia. One of my more memorable trips was volunteering as a youth helper, supporting the sick and elderly on the Cloyne Lourdes Pilgrimage.

I live in the city of Madison surrounded by beautiful lakes, in the Midwest of America. I am a United Way volunteer in Wisconsin, working with local food pantries. I’m also one of the founding members of the Madison Ladies Gaelic Football Club.

I’m a member of Irish Network Chicago, a business and social network, as well as a committee member of the Professional Irish Women of Chicago Organization, where we organise events to honour the professional Irish women of Chicago.

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t age 22, I am thrilled to be traveling to Ireland to participate in an event representative of my Irish heritage of which I am immensely proud! My grandfather, Tom O’Donoghue, grew up in Listowel and my great grandparents hailed from Mayo and Cork.

My grandfather’s legacy is an inspiring one as he arrived in the United States when he was 19 with a cardboard suitcase, $35 and one change of clothes.

Through simple determination and hard work, he achieved success as a businessman in Pittsburgh, PA. One of his business ventures was opening the Blarney Stone Restaurant where I would perform with my siblings, singing Irish songs and Irish step dancing.

Performing with the Irish Echos in Orlando, working at Walt Disney World in the entertainment department where I routinely work with Make-AWish and special needs families, and acting as the Production Director of the children’s ministry at my church, are what keeps my days busy and my heart fulfilled.

I am also inspired to volunteer my time to the Special Olympics because of my brother, Michael, who is severely mentally and physically disabled due to a rare syndrome. Although Mikey is nonverbal and totally dependent on my family for his daily care, he has taught me to enjoy the simple things in life.

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2 1 PHOTO BY ERIC SNYDER PHOTOGRAPHY www.ericsnyderphotography.com

WWW.DESERTSHAMROCK.COM

1 Received Enterprise Ireland Award 2 Madison, Wisconsin 3 University College Cork, Ireland

3 1. Ariel in Disney’s Fantasmic! 2. Make-A-Wish® Kenzie lost her battle to cancer on April 19, 2016 but made one final stop to Disney World to see her favorite princess, Belle, before gaining her wings 3. The Irish Echoes perform on St. Patrick’s Day in Central Florida

THE DESERT SHAMROCK AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017

Sinead Kirnan

REBECCA Phipps

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i all! I am from Walden, New York, which is a small town about 90 miles North of New York City. It’s the perfect balance between a rural area and the city life. My mother is from Naas, County Kildare and my father is originally from Brooklyn, NY with our family’s genealogy traced back to Counties Cavan and Sligo.

I am a recent college graduate with a degree in Biology and a minor in psychology from the State University of New York at New Paltz. But my true passion (f )lies in aviation. I am currently serving in the New York Air National Guard as a loadmaster on the C17 cargo jet. I am pursuing my pilot’s license in hopes of flying for the Air Force in the near future.

I am an active basketball and volleyball player, while coaching and refereeing younger leagues. I volunteer within numerous organizations to promote mentorship and leadership qualities for younger generations.

I am humbled to have the chance to represent all Irish women of New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut and to be united with the countless number of Irish close and far. If you hear a plane overhead, wave; it may be me!

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ello all, I am 21 years old, and the oldest of three girls in my family. I was born in New Jersey, but I have lived in North Carolina for about four years now to continue my education. This past May I graduated from the University of North Carolina Wilmington with a Bachelor’s Degree in Athletic Training. I hope to take my education further and go to graduate school to gain a Master’s in either Athletic Training or Sports Psychology. My goal is to eventually become an Athletic Trainer for the National Hockey League.

My Irish roots stem from my father’s side, with my great-great-great grandfather traveling over from Ireland in 1867! So far, we believe he came over from either County Clare or County Westmeath, and I’m hoping with a little more research, I can have an exact hometown for him!

Looking into my ancestry and heritage, and learning about my Irish roots is just the beginning of my research. Knowing more about the path that has eventually lead to me not only gives me more of a sense of identity, but allows me to honor my ancestors throughout my daily living so that they won’t be completely forgotten.

I cannot wait to travel to Ireland and truly hope to represent North Carolina, and its Irish community, to the absolute best of my abilities!

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1. (l-r) Edward Mortell (paternal uncle), me, Paul (father) and Jacob Gantt (my boyfriend) at Selection in Lexington 2. On a horse farm with chickens 3. Boxing and kickboxing for over a year and will be my talent in Tralee

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1 My family is my greatest support system, with best friends, sisters Ciara and Fiona 2 Although I love flying planes, you can occasionally catch me jumping out of them! 3 It’s hard to realize the size of the C17 jet until you throw a few of us in front!

PHOTO BY COURTNEY ASHLEY

COURTESY OF SIVE DOYLE PHOTOGRAPHY

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1. Tournament at Captain Bill’s, a local beach volleyball venue photo by ryan fipps 2. Wilmington has a variety of beaches and trails to explore like Kure Beach, NC 3. Classmate and I covering a local high school football game during our Athletic Training Student clinical rotation

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NORTH AMERICAN ROSES OF TRALEE

i everyone, I am a 19-year-old college student at the University of Kentucky studying biochemistry and mathematics. One day I would love to study medicine and become either a doctor in the United States Air Force or a medical research scientist.

I grew up in Blarney, County Cork and when I was 13 years old I moved to Kentucky with my two parents, my little sister, two dogs and two horses. A month after I moved to Kentucky, I started my first year of high school and graduated in 2015, moving on to study at UK. Growing up I loved playing camogie and riding horses, fox hunting and playing piano and I have recently picked up kickboxing and boxing. At UK, I am the Vice President of Math Club, a member of the Pre Medical Activities Council and I also serve as Vice President of Philanthropy for my sorority. Through this I get the opportunity to work closely with a local domestic violence shelter for women and children.

I love listening to music, working out, reading, hiking, rock climbing, volunteering, learning new things, laughing and being busy. I am both excited and honored to be the Kentucky Rose because I get to fuse my two worlds together and celebrate both my beautiful state, Kentucky, and my incredible homeland, Ireland, all in one fantastic experience!

NEW YORK ROSE

PHOTO COURTESY OF SHANNON WEEMS

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Martha Mortell

COURTESY OF SIVE DOYLE PHOTOGRAPHY

KENTUCKY ROSE

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NORTH AMERICAN ROSES OF TRALEE

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AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017 THE DESERT SHAMROCK

OHIO ROSE

PHILADELPHIA ROSE

SAN FRANCISCO ROSE

Meghan Adams

Tara Grandich

Amanda Donohoe

i! I am 22 years old and grew up in Cleveland, Ohio. My grandmother and grandfather were from Ballintubber and Roscommon, respectively, and immigrated to Ohio when they were young adults. Ever since I can remember, my Irish heritage has been a prominent part of my life. From Irish dancing to marching in the St. Patrick’s Day Parade, I have been able to experience the Irish traditions my grandparents aimed to keep at the core of our family.

I recently graduated from Loyola University Chicago where I studied Statistics, Marketing, and Information Systems. Upon graduation, I received a full-time offer as a Research Analyst with IPSOS in North America.

I enjoy traveling, which is quite an understatement. I studied abroad and had the opportunity to visit 10 different countries through a program called Semester at Sea. One of my favorite memories was actually teaching young children how to Irish dance at a school in Myanmar (Burma) despite the language barrier we faced.

I also enjoy new adventures, some of which have included shaving off my hair while passing the equator; and running the 2016 Chicago Marathon with my sister while raising $1,000 for Make-AWish® Foundation. I am excited and honored to represent the Ohio Centre in the Rose of Tralee Festival, and am ready for this next adventure.

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i there! I am 25 years old and so honored to represent Philadelphia in the Rose of Tralee Festival this year! I currently live in Drexel Hill, PA. I have grown up watching the Rose of Tralee Festival and have dreamt of the chance to participate.

My beautiful mother Mary, was born in Kilcormac, Offaly and is one of 10 from a farming background. My mother came to America in the late 1970s where she met my Italian father, Peter, in the Bronx. I have been very fortunate to travel home to Ireland every year to visit my family. From learning how to farm to whiskey tasting, every trip home to the faithful county is an adventure.

In 2014, I graduated from St. Joseph’s University with a degree in International Business. I also studied at Macquarie University in Sydney, Australia for a year. I currently work in Portfolio Management for De Lage Landen, a global vendor finance company. I am so excited to be a part of this journey.

I would like to dedicate this in memory of my Granny, Rose. Every year in August, I would watch the Rose of Tralee with my Granny. I would tell her that I will be up there one day waving to her; I hope to make her proud.

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WWW.DESERTSHAMROCK.COM

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ello, I am 20 years old and grew up in the beautiful wine country region, just north of San Francisco. I am currently a student at the University of Nevada, working towards my bachelor of science in physics, with a minor in mathematics, aiming to achieve a PhD in physics, and to pursue a career in research.

I currently serve as the Director of Cultural Interests for my sorority Delta Gamma, Eta Iota Chapter, which allows me to host presentations to over 200 women, regarding respect and understanding of cultures around the world. I am also an ambassador for Cystic Fibrosis Ireland, and I plan to use my year to improve awareness and make a difference. I’ve also volunteered with special needs kids; veterans; and at a senior care facility.

My parents are from Dublin, and I have a strong sense of Irish tradition and heritage. Two traditions I’ve always loved, are helping my mother make Irish Christmas cakes using my granny’s famous recipe as well as pulling the crackers on Christmas Day. In my spare time I enjoy art, outdoor activities such as boating, swimming, hiking, soccer, skiing and I have a passion for traveling, especially meeting people from different cultures. I’m very excited for the Rose of Tralee Festival to celebrate all the amazing and strong women that the Irish community has produced all around the world.

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1. Saint Joseph’s University Graduation 2014, with my parents Peter and Mary 2. Representing the Philly Rose at Irish Heritage night at the Phillies 3. Petting a Kangaroo, Gold Coast, Australia

1 Sightseeing in San Francisco with my sister, Ashley 2 Meeting Ireland’s President Michael D. Higgins (Mrs. Higgins on right)

THE DESERT SHAMROCK AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA ROSE

TEXAS ROSE

Ellerslie McCue

Claire McManamon

Lydian Lawler Lopez

am 19 years old, born and raised in the beautiful state of South Carolina, which has some of the most incredible coastlines, lakes, rivers, mountains, and farmland in the country. I can trace my Irish heritage on both sides of my family to County Cavan on my dad’s, and County Antrim on my mom’s.

I attend Clemson University where I study Agribusiness in hopes of pursuing a career in either agriculture sales or policy with a focus on sustainability. I am an active member in Clemson’s Agribusiness Club and successfully implemented a record breaking fundraiser this year. My grandfather introduced me to the marvels of the land and shared his passion for farming and our family farm, which we have owned for over 125 years. I hope to do my part to share this passion with others.

I am an avid equestrian and I’ve been fortunate to ride incredible horses, meet amazing people, and compete in horse competitions around the United States. I have been blessed to learn from and work with several accomplished horse trainers.

It is an honor to be the 2017 South Carolina Rose, and I am so excited to have this platform through which I can better promote Irish heritage in South Carolina, learn more about my own Irish roots, and gain a better appreciation for Irish agriculture firsthand.

H

i, I am a hiking enthusiast, food lover, travel aficionado, tea addict, GAA obsessed accountant. At 24 years old, I am the youngest in a family of five raised in the in the beautiful town of Newport, County Mayo on the stunning wild Atlantic Way. Having graduated from D.C.U. with a degree in Accounting & Finance, I wanted to use my career as means of working in other scenic locations around the world. I was lucky enough to get a position on the Glanbia Pure Ambition Graduate Program, the perfect fit for me, allowing me to further my career as an accountant and experience new cultures. Glanbia provides a unique working environment with a strong Irish presence but has also naturally fit into the American way of business.

I have already had the opportunity to work in two very different states, Idaho in the Pacific Northwest and second the fast-paced sunny state of California. I am thrilled to have been selected as the 2017 SoCal Rose and am looking forward to the year ahead filled with travel, events, fun and new friendships in store!

Earlier this year, I took the plunge with the ‘OC Wild Geese GFC’ in California where I train with the ladies football team weekly although I have to admit I think Aidan O’Shea’s position is probably safe!

1

i y’all, I am 27 years old and live and work in Houston, Texas. I attended the University of Houston and received my Bachelor’s Degree in English and Pre-Law in 2015, and plan to attend law school with an emphasis in Immigration Law. My Irish roots come from my mother’s side of the family, the Lawlers, who are from Abbeyleix, County Laois. My father’s side of the family is from Mexico City.

I have volunteered since I was 14 years old at Texas Children’s Hospital, and immigrant and refugee assistance organizations such as Casa Juan Diego and Interfaith Ministries. Working with these groups has changed my life and I hope to inspire others to give of their time and generosity to their local community volunteer organizations.

One of my biggest passions is Irish Dance; I have been an Irish dancer since the age of five. I am taking the TCRG exam this year to become a certified Irish dance teacher. I enjoy staying active in the Houston Irish community and I was excited to join our local GAA team, the Houston Gaels, this year.

I am so honored to have been selected as the 2017 Texas Rose of Tralee and I am extremely excited to meet the rest of the Roses for this once in a lifetime experience.

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1 1. SC Selection with 2015 SC Rose Shannon Kelahan-Pierson

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1. Big Sur, iconic Pacific Coast Highway, California 2. Final whistle San Diego West Coast 7’s Junior Ladies Final May 2017, winning the cup with Orange County Wild Geese GFC 3. Central Perk Café with friends at Warner Bros. Studio in Los Angeles

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1. Irish dance at All Irelands 2. Taj Mahal, Agra, India 3. With an Irish Connemara Pony

WWW.DESERTSHAMROCK.COM

NORTH AMERICAN ROSES OF TRALEE

I

SOUTH CAROLINA ROSE

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AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017 THE DESERT SHAMROCK

NORTH AMERICAN ROSES OF TRALEE

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WASHINGTON, D.C. ROSE

I

Sarah Robertson

am 21 years old, the middle of 5 kids. I’m going into my senior year at Christopher Newport University in Virginia, part of the WDC metro area.

I study French and Communication Studies and minor in Middle East and North Africa, and Arabic (and get to live near the beach during the school year!). My family’s ancestry is from Counties Armagh, Monaghan, and Kerry! I am a competitive Irish dancer, and my love of dance has inspired my parents to dance as well.

Growing up, my father was in the military so I had the opportunity to live all over the world, which included learning Flemish at the same time as I learned English! Seeing different cultures first hand has given me a love for diversity.

Throughout my years I have not only had the opportunity to travel but also to help, which has shaped who I am today. I have volunteered working with the Salesian Mission in Camden, New Jersey, where I helped with underprivileged youth and the homeless. I have also volunteered working at Camp Rainbow, a camp that I helped run for underprivileged girls who could not afford to go to camp during the summer.

I have a passion for giving back and would like to join the Peace Corps after I graduate to help create sustainable education programs for children in third world countries.

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1. Snow-shoeing in the French Alps in Vars, France, 2016 2 Riding a camel in the Sahara Desert in Morocco 3 On top of Mount Saint Victoire in Aix En Provence, France

WWW.DESERTSHAMROCK.COM

THE DESERT SHAMROCK AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017

21

BY ELLEN HARRINGTON

“C

ommonality” is the theme of the innovative exchange of handmade postcards between the Sister Cities of Chandler and Tullamore, Ireland.

Chandler artist and entrepreneur, Laurie Fagen, a past Board Member of Chandler-Tullamore Sister Cities (CTSC) is collaborating with Tullamore artist and illustrator, Roisin Ui Oistin, on this citizen-to-citizen project. Ellen Harrington, Chair of CTSC, states, “This project carries the twinning relationship right into the heart of our communities, involving citizens of all ages, and furthering the awareness of the Sister Cities association.”

Residents in both cities created 4x6-inch postcards, either notecards or handmade, depicting anything the two cities have in common. All age groups participated, and media could include drawings, paintings, illustrations, collages, fiber, prints, photographs, landscapes or poems–whatever inspired the maker.

Chandler’s Burst of Butterflies Create and Paint Studio provided space and materials for budding artists.

The postcard exhibit will open August 11 with a reception at Aras an Chontae office’s beautiful atrium in Tullamore and remain for three weeks, when it will travel back to Chandler to be displayed at a venue to be determined this fall. Tullamore artist Roisin Ui Oistin shared, “This, we hope, may be the start of an annual art exchange that will bring both communities together in a fun and exciting way, thus building friendships!”

Laurie Fagen’s multi-faceted and talented skills make her the perfect choice to co-chair the artist exchange. Laurie is an accomplished artist: polymer clay, mixed media and fiber art quilts. Two of her quilts were displayed in March and April 2017 at the Irish Cultural Center as part of the Maverick Art Quilts exhibit in the Great Hall, along with her Celticdesigned jewelry. As a jazz vocalist, she has performed in local venues. Laurie serves on the Chandler Arts Commission, and recently decorated a life-sized, fiberglass turtle for the Commission’s “Tortoise Project.”

Her second stage production script, “Boa Babes,” was produced at Mesa Encore Black Box Theatre recently, and followed five friends on their “bumpy, beautiful road trip through life, a show that could only be written and performed

by women who have been there, done that, and are enthusiastically looking forward to accomplishing even more with their lives and with each other.

Fagen’s career began at KTAR News Radio in Phoenix during college, reporting traffic conditions from a single-engine aircraft. She spent ten years working in commercial and cable television, then started her first business as a writer, producer and director for corporate television for another decade before she and her late husband, Geoff Hancock, purchased the Ocotillo News in Chandler and later renamed it SanTan Sun News.

“Fade Out,” Laurie’s debut in crime fiction, features a young radio reporter who covers the crime beat, helps police solve cold cases and for fun, creates mystery theatre podcasts. Her second in the Behind the Mic Mystery series, “Dead Air,” was based on a story she covered as a reporter for television news in Iowa, and transported the location to Chandler.

Her third book in the making will have connections in Prescott, Arizona and may involve gypsies or “travelers.” Laurie recently served on two panels at Left Coast Crime, a large annual mystery convention sponsored by mystery fans, both readers and authors, in Honolulu.

In 2014, Laurie traveled with her son to County Kerry, climbed Mount Brandon on the Dingle Peninsula, and scattered the ashes of her beloved husband. She re-created the mountain in a quilt reflecting the Saints’ Path, where the memorial service was held. “Ireland has long held a special place in my heart, and was one of my late husband’s and my favorite locales,” she explains, “I’m thrilled to be involved in this artist exchange.”

She returns to Ireland with the postcard project in August.

For further information on ChandlerTullamore Sister Cities, please contact Ellen Harrington, (480) 600-8509 or chan. to.tull@gmail.com.

PHOTO BY ANN NIEMANN

Postcard Exchange with Tullamore

Laurie with her Mount Brandon quilt at Maverick Art Quilts exhibit at Irish Cultural Center, Phoenix, AZ

Fagen’s postcard Commonalities: Green under Blue Skies

Congratulations and Best Wishes to Ms. Lauren Koll Arizona Rose

Chandler – Tullamore Sister (Twinned) Cities Ellen Harrington Chair, Chandler, Arizona chan.to.tull@gmail.com Tony McCormack Chair, Tullamore, Ireland tony.mccormack@yahoo.ie

Save the Date: November 4, 11am to 1pm Chandler-Tullamore Sister Cities’ Annual Southwest Tea Tumbleweed Recreation Center Germann/McQueen Roads, Chandler, AZ Registration at www.ChandlerIrish.org.

www.chandlerirish.org www.facebook.com/ chandler.az.irish

WWW.DESERTSHAMROCK.COM

SISTER / TWINNED CITIES

Chandler Artist Co-Chairs Sister City

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017 THE DESERT SHAMROCK

PHOTO BY BOB WALLACE

SCOTS

22

“The

Worlds”

BY LOIS WALLACE

A tourist boat sits in the lower basin at the Falkirk Wheel awaiting its next group

BUCKET LIST:

Union Canal W

BY BOB WALLACE

WWW.DESERTSHAMROCK.COM

Bob Wallace is a Council member and past president of Clan Wallace Society. He and his wife, Lois, have traveled to Scotland many times. Since joining the Clan, Bob has become highly interested in Scotland’s First Wars of Scottish Independence, in particular the history associated with Sir William Wallace and King Robert I, the Bruce. Bob is Chief Research Assistant for Authentic Celtic Travels.

Lois’s travel business. They now reside in Phoenix.

Lois Wallace is the owner of Authentic Celtic Travels, based in Phoenix, AZ. Not only is her heritage Scottish and Irish, she married into Clan Wallace. Her business focus is on all Celtic nations.

She has extensive knowledge of Scotland, having traveled there numerous times individually and leading groups.

PHOTO BY LOIS WALLACE

ere one to judge the time taken between completion of the Forth and Clyde Canal, opened in 1790, and beginning of the Union Canal, one might suspect that those doing the manual labor with pick and shovel were exhausted and had to rest for a spell. Their rest would cease when authorizing legislation for the Union Canal was passed in 1817. A portion of the required funding already in hand, additional funding would be necessary prior to completion of the project opening in 1822.

Rather than building a canal requiring locks to raise and lower watercraft throughout its route, the Union followed the lay of the land from Edinburgh to Falkirk, a contour canal. For the most part, the landscape worked to the benefit of designers and the laboring hands. Although the second longest aqueduct in the United Kingdom, Avon Aqueduct—80 feet above Scotland’s River Avon with an overall length of 810 feet– would be necessary to cross one portion of the route to maintain the height of the canal at 240 feet above sea level.

At the Falkirk end of the 30-mile route, a series of locks would be necessary to accommodate the change in elevation from the Union Canal to the Forth and Clyde, a difference of 110 feet between the two waterways. Eleven locks were put in place to raise vessels going toward Edinburgh, and lower them as they neared Falkirk. As a practical matter, the Union Canal had no competition until construction of a railroad between Edinburgh and

Glasgow in 1842, capable of carrying the same heavy materials at a faster pace.

Relatively successful from its inception in 1820, the Union Canal slowly declined as a commercial enterprise.

Although managing to hang on into the 1930s, official closing of the waterway came in 1965. Lack of maintenance over the succeeding years saw the canal choked to such a degree that attempting to get a boat from one end to the other was extremely difficult. Lack of use and maintenance on the locks eventually led to their being removed.

Several changes in attitude by the public brought an interest back to use of canals. Leisure craft encouraged the revitalizing of the waterways, and the Millennium Link connected the two canal systems with construction of the Falkirk Wheel, opened in 2001, that project designed by college students. Recreational boaters could travel from Glasgow to Falkirk, even on to Edinburgh over the course of a weekend, and tourists could enjoy the Falkirk Wheel if only for a few moments.

A

s the World Bagpiping Championship is known, it is held in Glasgow, Scotland every August since 1930 when the Scottish Bag Piping Association was formed. For any pipe band, going to The Worlds is the ultimate goal. Hundreds of bands of all levels from all over the globe come to compete on Glasgow Green, a park along the banks of the River Clyde consisting of 136 acres, the oldest park in the city.

Bands are required to perform in qualifying rounds in the morning with the top bands in all the grades performing in the later part of the day. Drum Majors are not left out; their performances for the highly sought after title of world Champion, are dazzling. Add to the mix a venue of Scottish dancers and athletics, there is something for everyone.

The city of Glasgow is the center of the Bagpiping world for the week preceding the Friday and Saturday competition. Not only are bands practicing in all corners of the city in all sorts of venues. Piping Live, a celebration of all types of bagpipe music, puts on entertainment, both tariff and free.

You have a choice from concerts at the Royal Concert Hall, pub venues to a free afternoon of nonstop pipe bands at George Square.

In 2011, I organized and traveled with a group. Pipe Dreams; twenty-one

of us went to Glasgow for the express purpose of cheering on our local Nevada pipe band. Bob and I both love pipe music so we were expecting to thoroughly enjoy ourselves. We were first delighted with the piping live concerts and exceptional show at George Square. It was nothing to the awe we experienced when we arrived Saturday at Glasgow Green, the sheer numbers of uniformed band members streaming into the park along with the general public, was a sight to see.

With the separate viewing and judging areas for the different grades of bands we were overwhelmed.

Not only by the number bands but the quality of performances was outstanding, truly an extraordinary experience. With a few vendor booths, food and pub tents we could take a short break with pipe music always in our ears. Seeing thousands gathered playing together for the final ceremony, sends shivers down my spine just thinking about it today.

If you, like us, are a lover of the Pipe Band you owe it to yourself to experience “The Worlds”.

THE DESERT SHAMROCK AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017

23

Simon Dale and his Hobbit House

BY LYNN HERDMAN MASCARELLI

H

ave always loved building things but never had the resources to do so...I was a high school teacher for eons.

Today I write and make art instead, which seems far less exciting than what my story describes. That said, I recently discovered Welsh builder, Simon Dale, who, with 1,000-1,200 man hours and £3,000 in materials, constructed what has become known in Wales as The Hobbit House. All was accomplished while he and his wife and others performed ecological woodland management and services for the owner of the land, even setting in place a forest garden.

I was drawn to this wee forest house with a window that looked like a dragon’s eye and tucked into the side of a hill. Such homes were called hobbit-holes in J.R.R Tolkien’s The Hobbit. He wrote, “In a hole in the ground there lived a Hobbit. Not a nasty, dirty, wet hole, filled with the ends of worms and an oozy smell, nor yet a dry, bare, sandy hole with nothing in it to sit down on or to eat: it was a Hobbit-hole, and that means comfort.”

Simon’s wife, Jasmine, wrote on her husband’s website, “Some past experience, lots of reading and self-belief gave us the courage of our conviction that we wanted to build our own home in natural surroundings. For us, one choice led to another and each time we took the

plunge events conspired to assist us in our mission. There were times of stress and exhaustion, but definitely no regrets and plenty of satisfaction.” This was indeed a family collaboration with their two small children. And imagine the delight for them now to grow up in such a magical home.

I must also use the words of the builder, “The main tools used were a chainsaw, hammer and 1-inch chisel, little else really...was not a builder or carpenter.”

But he admitted, “This kind of building is accessible to anyone. My main relevant skills were being able-bodied, having self-belief and perseverance and a mate or two to give a lift now and again.” What else could one need? And is this not what life well lived requires of all of us?

The images here speak for themselves and my article is briefer this time because I want you to enjoy the link below to the builder’s website that clearly describes how this building type came about. Simon explains: “Except where specified, all writing on this website is written by me and purely represents our own opinion... whilst it is all written with an open heart and best intention. If you would like to enquire about courses, training, and design services, please email: enquiries@ beingsomewhere.net.”

Obviously the builder has drawn much attention when he must remind us: “Due to the volume of communication we receive, we cannot currently guarantee

a reply.” You will even find blueprints and building plans and note how generous the builder is in sharing his craft so that you may perhaps do the same. Enjoy!

Their booklet, wild by design, is a mini design toolkit to inspire creative solutions for people to live in harmony with nature.

Purchase via their website for £11.10 (€13, $14 USD) at www.simondale.net.

Lynn is a former high school teacher of art, history, and political science. She is a potter, illustrator, muralist in public venues and private homes, and wordsmith. Frequently a featured artist at the Irish Cultural Center, Celtic landscapes intrigue her. Her mom, a Williams, is totally Welsh with ancestry as far back as 1700s and the Isle of Anglesley.

WWW.DESERTSHAMROCK.COM

WELSH

PHOTOS COURTESY OF WWW.SIMONDALE.NET

CYMRU

CULTURE

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AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017 THE DESERT SHAMROCK

KELTIC KITCHEN

Irish Nachos – Delicious Pub Grub You Can Make at Home

BY KATIE CAUFIELD GINDER

D

ia daoibh a chaired! (Hello friends!)

Have you ever wondered what to do with your leftover corned beef? Why not use it to make Irish nachos?

Irish nachos include seasoned potato wedges, or “French fries” as we say in the States, and they are generously topped with leftover shredded corned beef, beans, tomatoes, avocados, cheese, onion and sour cream. If you’re not an avocado fan or do not have access to fresh avocados, feel free to leave it out. Any of the toppings can be omitted or substituted, but the shredded corned beef, cheese and sour cream are a must.

Enjoy!

Katie Caufield Ginder lives in Gilbert with her husband and two sons. Her background is in higher education program management, instruction, and faculty recruitment. She enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, cooking, yoga, volunteering with Big Brothers Big Sisters and learning about her Irish heritage. Katie’s great, great paternal grandfather was from Galway and immigrated to Pennsylvania in the 1860s.

WWW.DESERTSHAMROCK.COM

Serves 6 INGREDIENTS: 1 bag frozen potato wedges or fries (or prepared fresh) 1 lb. (450 g) prepared shredded corned beef 1 cup (150 g) canned black beans 1 chopped tomato 1 c. (150 g) shredded cheddar cheese 1 diced avocado 1 diced garden onion ½ c. (120 mL) sour cream 1 c. (240 mL) salsa DIRECTIONS: Heat potato wedges according to package directions.

Warm prepared corned beef and black beans. Set aside.

Once potato wedges are cooked, remove from oven and arrange on a large plate or pie dish.

Top potatoes with corned beef, black beans, tomatoes, cheese, avocado and garden onion.

Top nachos with sour cream and serve the salsa on the side.

Serve and enjoy right away.

THE DESERT SHAMROCK AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017

[All events are in Arizona USA unless otherwise noted]

IRISH CULTURAL CENTER (ICC)/ MCCLELLAND LIBRARY

PUBLIC WALK-IN HOURS (TOURS, LIBRARY & GENEALOGY) Tuesday-Saturday • 10am–3pm Wednesday Evenings (Library only) • 3pm–6pm Closed all major holidays Frances McClelland Genealogy Centre available these hours; Open Other Hours for Scheduled Classes, Meetings & Events 1106 N. Central Avenue, Phoenix 85004 602-258-0109, www.azirish.org

See ad page 9

THIRD FRIDAY IRISH CEILI (IRISH SOCIAL DANCING) Friday, Sept 15 • 7pm until late The Great Hall, Beginners’ Lesson 6:30pm Tickets: $6; under 12 FREE (2 with each paid admission) Family-Friendly, Live Music, Cash Bar

Saturday, Sept 16 • 1pm–3pm Advance Reservations Only The Great Hall, Family-Friendly Cost: $16.00 each; kids under 12, $5.00 w/adult

“IRISH TEA CEREMONY”

Third Saturday of each month!

Saturday, Sept 16 • 1:30pm–3pm Advance Reservations Only Tickets: $22.50 Members, $25 Non-Members Norton Room, Irish Cultural Center & McClelland Library

THE ACADEMY OF IRISH AND CELTIC STUDIES

IRISH MUSIC IRISH LANGUAGE IRISH AND SCOTTISH DANCE

Monday, July 31; Thursday, August 3 A semi-professional ensemble performing music from all Celtic cultures. Seeking dedicated vocalists, instrumentalists and dancers to perform in a variety of venues in its 9th season.

For an audition time and more information, contact Founding Artistic Director Coleen Van Slyke at celticachorale@gmail.com

IRISH NETWORK ARIZONA BREAKFAST & SPEAKER Second Fridays, Aug 11 AND Sept 8 • 7am The Great Hall, Irish Cultural Center Members and First-Time Guests FREE Returning guests $10 “Like” us on Facebook RSVP for headcount: info@irishnetworkarizona.com

Celtica! Chorale performing at Christmas at the Castle

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SUPPORT OUR ARIZONA ROSE, LAUREN KOLL Representing Arizona in Ireland at international competition. Attend in person or watch livestreaming via RTE.ie

RUAILE BUAILE - FROM IRELAND Sunday, August 20 • Doors open at 6:30pm Opening act “Crosswind” Special Guest Piper Michael McClanathan Trinity Presbyterian Church 630 Park Avenue, Prescott, AZ Tickets at the door: $25 general admission; $10 college students; under 19 FREE Hear their music at: www.rgmbooking.com Info: 928-771-1218

FAMILY STORY HOUR

Saturday, September 9 • 10:30am–Noon Stories and crafts for the entire family “Things That Sail” by Huck Scarry “Great Irish Heroes” by Fiona Waters Irish Cultural Center - Castle Keep; FREE

SAVE THE DATE: FAMILY STORY HOUR Saturday, October 7 • 10:30am–Noon Stories and crafts for the entire family The Banshee Eve Bunting & Emily Arnold McCull Too Many Fairies Margaret Read McDonald Irish Cultural Center - Castle Keep; FREE

10TH ANNUAL ANAM CARA (“SOUL FRIEND”) AWARDS GALA Saturday, Oct 14 • 5:30pm–10pm Irish Cultural Center

12K’S OF CHRISTMAS® EVENT FACTS “Celebrate Christmas and Give yourself the Gift of Health” Saturday December 9 • 8am–Noon Freestone District Park, 1045 E. Juniper Road, Gilbert AZ 85233 FREE admission to Christmas Bazaar and Santa’s Pet Village.

Fee for Runners and Walkers Register NOW at: www.fieldworksevents.com

Road to Dingle, Co. Kerry

ANNUAL SOUTHWEST TEA CHANDLER-TULLAMORE SISTER CITIES Saturday, November 4 • 11am–1pm Tumbleweed Recreation Center, Germann/ McQueen Roads, Chandler, AZ Registration online: www.chandlerirish.org

ANNUAL CHRISTMAS AT THE CASTLE Saturday, Dec 9 • 6pm–10pm Irish Cultural Center

ANNUAL FALL TEA IRISH CULTURAL CENTER Sunday, Sept 17 • 2pm–5pm Advance Reservations Only The Great Hall, Hats welcome Cost: $16.00 each; kids under 12, $5.00 w/adult

ANNUAL ARIZONA CELTIC WOMEN CONCERT Sunday, Sept 24 • 2:30pm (Gates open at 1:30pm) Featuring Celtic talent of Arizona!

The Great Hall, Irish Cultural Center Admission: $15/adult, $5/children 12 and under “Like” us on Facebook!

Info: sarahnoblemusic@gmail.com

See ad this page

“A BENCH IN THE SUN” Don Bluth Front Row Theatre Thurs, Fri, Sat NOW through Aug 26 • 7pm Sat, Aug 12 - Join Irish Network AZ’s group seating Comedy by Ron Clark with actor Lee Cooley 8670 E. Shea Blvd., Scottsdale 85260 Nestled in NE corner of Pima Crossing Shopping Plaza off of Shea and 101 Tickets: 480-314-0841

BOOK DISCUSSION GROUP Saturday, September 30 • 10:30am–12:30pm Irish Cultural Center- Norton Room; FREE

2017-18 SEASON EXHIBIT AND LECTURE SERIES Peace and Reconciliation: The 20th Anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement Saturday, September 30 • 7pm Irish Cultural Center

Sunday, September 24, 2017 Gates open at 1:30pm Concert begins at 2:30pm Irish Cultural Center Tickets available at the door:

Adults $15 Children ages 5-12 $5 Under 5 Free Join us to celebrate Mabon (Fall Equinox), the Celtic festival celebrating the changing of the seasons. We are ready to entertain you with songs of magic and folklore!!

For more information: “Like” us on facebook or email sarahnoblemusic@gmail.com WWW.DESERTSHAMROCK.COM

PHOTO BY ANN NIEMANN

CEILI WORKSHOP

CELTICA! CHORALE AUDITIONS

CALENDAR

AUGUSTSEPTEMBER 2017

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AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017 THE DESERT SHAMROCK

DIRECTORIES

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NEW MEMBERS WELCOME! IRISH CULTURAL CENTER & McCLELLAND LIBRARY Our mission is to provide a link between the people of Arizona and the people of Ireland and other Celtic cultures. The Irish Cultural Center serves as a central meeting place for cultural groups, affiliate groups and people looking to celebrate their Irish/Celtic heritage. The McClelland Library is a three-story building resembling a traditional 12th century Norman castle from the Emerald Isle. The Library houses 8,000 books from Irish authors, poets, and genealogical sources, a permanent exhibit on The Book of Kells, several reading rooms, and computer access to various disciplines of Irish and Celtic studies including genealogy. Their current exhibition is on the Historical Context and Cultural Legacy of the 1916 Easter Rising. The mission of The Academy of Irish & Celtic Studies is to spread the knowledge and wisdom of the Celtic nations through music, dance, art, literature and language. We do this by providing many musical and Arts programs, open to young and old alike. The Center is also available for private rentals, being a beautiful venue for all occasions! www.azirish.org, 602-258-0109

ARIZONA COLLEEN PROGRAMS

ARIZONA

CENTER

The Arizona Colleen and Rose of Tralee Selection, Arizona Irish Lass and Little Miss Shamrock programs select young ladies of Irish descent to participate as spokespersons at area events. Prize packages for each competition. The Colleen wins a trip to Ireland and $1,000 scholarship. For details, visit www.azcolleen.org or contact Erin SweeneyMorgan, Chair, 602-373-7931, info@azcolleen.org.

ARIZONA LAW ENFORCEMENT EMERALD SOCIETY (ALEES) ALEES was incorporated in 2004 to promote and celebrate accomplishments of Irish-Americans in law enforcement. Its members, families and friends support ALEES Foundation, a non-profit 501(c)(3) created in 2012 to provide financial assistance to the families of injured and fallen brothers and sisters in Arizona law enforcement. If interested in becoming a member or volunteering, contact us at azemeraldsociety.org.

THE CALEDONIAN SOCIETY OF ARIZONA Our mission is to promote Scottish culture through art, education, and athletics. Each year we grant scholarships to aspiring and professional Highland athletes, musicians, dancers and/or any other individuals or organizations whose mission, project or program promotes Scottish heritage. We meet the 2nd Thursday of each month for drinks, entertainment and Scottish fun! Everyone welcome!

ArizonaScots.com.

DAUGHTERS OF SCOTIA DESERT THISTLE LODGE #260

IRISH NETWORK ARIZONA (INAZ) Irish Network Arizona is part of IrishNetwork USA organization.

Members connect with their peers and develop relationships that foster success in their business, cultural, and social interests. Come to a monthly breakfast or event to explore membership benefits. Facebook.com/IrishNetworkArizona; IrishNetworkArizona.com 67%

100%

JIM THOMSON U.S. SCHOOL OF PIPING & DRUMMING 25%

50%

This bagpipe and drum school is dedicated to excellence in bagpiping as well as camaraderie and fun. All levels of students are welcome! Instructors are brought from Scotland, Ireland, Canada and the U.S. Contact: Eric Poleski, Administrator, ericpoleski@cox.net, 702-270-8974 home, 702340-8859 cell, 928-556-3161, www.nachs.info

LOS SAN PATRICIOS DE ARIZONA (ST. PATRICK’S BATTALION) The organization honors the 150-year-old bond of friendship existing today between Mexico and Ireland. Los San Patricios de Arizona was founded by Wm. “Bill” Howard O'Brien; Hector Corona, El Teniente; and Ernie Patino, El Teniente. For information, please call 480-951-1152 or email whoco@cox.net.

NORTHERN ARIZONA CELTIC HERITAGE SOCIETY The nonprofit organization is dedicated to presenting, promoting, and preserving Celtic culture. Each year we host the Arizona Highland Celtic Festival (July 21-22, 2018), the Jim Thomson U.S. School of Piping & Drumming, and the Grand Canyon Celtic Arts Academy. Contact Jude McKenzie, information@nachs.info, 928-556-3161, www.nachs.info.

PHOENIX ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE & FAIRE COMMITTEE Formed in 1983, the Committee has the responsibility for organizing the annual Phoenix St. Patrick’s Day Parade and the Faire that follows, which are held on Saturday (the closest before or falling on March 17); and the Arizona Colleen Programs throughout the year. It is entirely volunteers and meets the second Tuesday of each month at 7 pm at the ICC. Contact: Harry Sexton, President, 602-863-9198.

PHOENIX ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE It is one of the largest parades in Arizona! Celebrate being Irish with the entire Valley. Coming up Saturday, March 17, 2018, 10am; route is Third Street south from Sheridan to Moreland, FREE. Contact: John Corcoran, Chair, 623-9391183, www.stpatricksdayphoenix.org.

PHOENIX ST. PATRICK’S DAY FAIRE

Formed in 2005 to promote Scottish heritage. Ladies of ancestry, married to a Scot or born in Scotland may join.

We hold monthly meetings, tea socials, a teahouse at the AZ Highland Games and attend Scottish events. We support Highland dance competition and other charities. Contact: Bethany Tso at 602-770-7565 or clanwoman924@yahoo.com

Fun for the entire family, it showcases Irish music, step dancing, Irish and Celtic arts and crafts, plus traditional Irish foods and beverages. Coming up Saturday, March 17, 2018, 10am-5pm at the Irish Cultural Center and Margaret Hance Park grounds. Contact: Mary Moriarty, Chair, 602-258-0109, www.stpatricksdayphoenix.org.

FRIENDS OF SAINT PATRICK CENTRE – AZ CHAPTER

RIORDAN MANSION STATE HISTORIC PARK

The nonprofit organization was formed in 2011 to promote positive relationships between Arizona and Northern Ireland.

Through education, cultural exchanges and charitable events, the Chapter nurtures St. Patrick’s legacy. Meetings held quarterly at the ICC. Contact: Kelsey.Kelleher@ AZIrishLibrary.org, 602-301-1083.

Built in 1904 for two Irish brothers, Riordan Mansion is an architectural treasure offering a glimpse into the lives of Flagstaff’s early Irish settlers. The “fairy ring” seen on the outdoor self-guided tour hints at the Irish tradition of providing fairies an outdoor dancing space, preventing mischief inside.

For admission rates and hours call 928-779-4395.

GRAND CANYON CELTIC ARTS ACADEMY

SCOTTISH-AMERICAN MILITARY SOCIETY (SAMS), FLAGSTAFF

Dates: July 16-20, 2018 at Flagstaff Arts and Leadership Academy. It offers classes for Youth and Adults in: fiddle, whistle, dance, guitar, and more! Scholarships Available through Northern Arizona Celtic Heritage Society. Contact: Kari@GrandCanyonCelticArts.org, 928-600-1365. www. grandcanyoncelticarts.org

IRISH FOUNDATION OF ARIZONA Formed in the 1970s to bring together people of Irish heritage in Arizona, the group sponsors social events throughout the year. Meetings are held on the first Wednesday of each month at 7pm at the ICC. Contact: Anna O’Hara, President, 480-345-9517

WWW.DESERTSHAMROCK.COM

Chartered on April 21, 1981 in North Carolina, membership is open to all Active Duty and Veterans of the USA and the British Commonwealth who are of Scot or Scot-Irish lineage.

For more information, contact SAMS Flagstaff Post 2000, George G. Shoemaker, 928-607-1600, gduffer@suddenlink. net.

THE DESERT SHAMROCK AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017

Celebrating our 30th year!! The parade starts at 11am in downtown Tucson and the festival takes place at Armory Park from 10am-6pm. This year the festivities will actually be on St. Patrick’s Day, Saturday, March 17, 2018. Serving Guinness and Harp!! Great food, Irish music and dancing, a Kids’ corner, face painting and much more!! Established 1987. www.tucsonstpatricksday.com

WELSH LEAGUE OF ARIZONA Our mission is to promote Welsh language and culture with performing arts and literary events, classes, and participating in Celtic festivals and other community events.

We endeavor to enhance relations between the U.S. and Wales by being a point of contact for visitors, businesses, and expatriates. We warmly welcome travelers, offering assistance and networking.

Contact: Mary Gilchrist marygilchristmg@gmail.com. www.welshleagueofarizona.org

CLANS CLAN MACINNES INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION Arizona Convenor: Steve McKinnis 11505 E. Calle Javelina, Tucson, AZ 85748 macinnes@macinnes.org • 520-290-1268 • www.macinnes. org

CLAN MACCALLUM-MALCOLM SOCIETY, N.A. Arizona Convenor: Ashleen O’Gaea Ashleen@Comcast.net w/MacCallum in subject line www.Clan-MacCallum-Malcolm.org

MUSICIANS KILLARNEY FAIR Women’s quartet singing melodic, lively Celtic favorites in multiple harmonies. Metro Phoenix.

Mckell Keeney, 480-223-7217, mckell11@gmail.com www.facebook.com/killarneyfair, www.KillarneyFair.com

CELTIC SISTER CITIES CHANDLER-TULLAMORE, IRELAND SISTER CITIES Ellen Harrington, President. P.O. Box 1474​, Chandler, AZ 85244-1474, 480-600-8509, chan.to.tull@gmail.com, www.chandlerirish.org

PHOENIX-ENNIS, IRELAND SISTER CITIES Mary Hill-Connor, Committee Chairperson 602-635-9760, mary.hillconnor@gmail.com www.phoenixsistercities.org

SCOTTSDALE-KILLARNEY, IRELAND SISTER CITIES Kathy George, President, 480-326-6666, kathygeorge9@ gmail.com www.scottsdalesistercities.com; 480 945-0384 (Main Office)

TUCSON-ROSCOMMON, IRELAND SISTER CITIES Colleen Kelly Beaman, Chair 520-743-7979, Ckbeaman@hotmail.com 1670 N Country Club, Tucson, AZ 85716; and Facebook

CELTIC DANCE SCHOOLS

DIRECTORIES

TUCSON ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE AND FESTIVAL

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BRACKEN SCHOOL OF IRISH DANCE Classes in Chandler, 480-699-2455, www. brackenirishdance.com Thomas Bracken, ADCRG. | Kieran Noe, TCRG thomas.bracken@brackenirishdance.com, Kieran.Noe@Brackenirishdance.com

MAGUIRE ACADEMY OF IRISH DANCE Classes in Phoenix, Tucson, Dallas, and Houston Info@maguireacademy.com (520) 319-0204. Darren Maguire, TCRG, ADCRG www.maguireacademy.com

MASCHINO SCHOOL OF HIGHLAND DANCE Kari Maschino, 480-242-7760, Kari@maschinodance.com Gilbert, Tempe, Peoria www.maschinodance.com

MICHAEL PATRICK GALLAGHER SCHOOL OF IRISH DANCE MPGirishdance@yahoo.com Michael Patrick, TCRG, ADCRG, Ann Paitel, TCRG www.mpgirishdance.com

REVIEW BY ADRIENNE LEAVY The Gallery Press (2017) ISBN 978 1 85235 692 7 paperback ISBN 978 1 85235 693 4 clothbound

P

ublished on February 28, 2017 on what would have been Montague’s 88th birthday, this posthumous collection encompasses the poet’s childhood in Ulster and his travels further abroad to Europe and the United States. Born in Brooklyn in 1929 to Irish immigrant parents,

Montague was sent back to Ireland at age four to be raised by his paternal aunts on the family farm in Garvaghey in County Tyrone, and the internal tensions caused by this event fuel much of his work.

In Second Childhood the poet writes plaintively in “Riddles” “I am a small boy/ standing in a field. / Where is my mother? / Where is my father?” Young love and awakening sexual desire is the subject of several poems. Elsewhere, he playfully captures life on his aunts’ farm in “Foul Play,” where “the bright red rooster” gets his comeuppance from the hens in the yard after attempting to challenge their natural pecking order.

Montague writes well about other poets. “Hopkins in Dublin” contemplates Gerald Manley Hopkins, a poet of great importance to Seamus Heaney, who lived for a while in Dublin and is described as “a shy John bull among Fenians.”

In “Sonnet for Berryman,” Montague

recalls meeting the American poet John Berryman in Dublin as a youth and then again years later in Paris. Montague’s old friend, the Scottish poet Hugh McDiarmid, is the subject of the more substantial poem “Scotia” in which the landscape and history of Scotland, “this desolate country,” is movingly described.

The presence of the oil rigs located off the North Sea, “towed from Moray Firth/ to prop a fading imperial strength” lend credence to “The rightful arrogance of MacDiarmid’s/ calling together of Clann Albann” – the clarion call of a fading Gaelic order.

The second part of this collection continues John Montague’s recollections by reconstructing pilgrimages to, and conversations with, the British poet and artist David Jones (1895-1974). Their conversations, and the fascinating long free verse poems that emerge from them, range from the horrors of war (Jones’s served in World

Adrienne Leavy is originally from Dundalk, County Louth, but now lives with her family in Phoenix,Arizona. She is the editor and publisher of Reading Ireland, an on-line magazine that promotes Irish literature and contemporary Irish writing.

An expanded review of Montague’s Second Childhood will appear in the summer 2017 issue. To subscribe, visit www.readingireland.net.

WWW.DESERTSHAMROCK.COM

POETRY REVIEW

Second Childhood

by John Montague

War 1), the 1916 Easter Rising, Robert Graves and his conception of the poetic Muse, the indignity and fear of old age, and the mystery of pagan and Christian beliefs.

Throughout his career, Montague wrote about travel and exile, national identity and personal loss. For fans of Montague, this book encapsulates many of the themes enumerated on in collections such as The Rough Field (1972) and The Dead Kingdom (1984). For an audience new to Montague, Second Childhood is an ideal introduction, one which hopefully will inspire readers to delve deeper into this important poet’s body of work.

An expanded review of Montague’s Second Childhood appears in the Summer 2017 issue of Reading Ireland, which focuses on Irish American writers. To subscribe, visit www.readingireland.net.

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