THE IRISH FOUNDATION OF ARIZONA
April 2008

IMPORTANT APRIL MEETING

The Irish Foundation of Arizona will meet on Wednesday, April 2, 2008 at 7:00 PM at the Irish Cultural Center, 1006 N. Central, Phoenix. This is a very important meeting as we will be accepting nominations for Officers for the coming year. Anna O'Hara was nominated as Secretary at the March meeting.

SPRING PICNIC

Our Spring Picnic will be held on Sunday, April 20 from 1:00 PM until 4:00 PM. We will have hot dogs and hamburgers for $5.00 per person. No charge for children under 12. Every one is asked to bring their favorite side dish, salad or dessert. All the Irish Community is welcome and the musical folks among us are invited to bring their instruments. If a run-off is needed for the election of Officers, it will be held during the picnic. There will be games and activities for the children. Looking forward to seeing every one there.

EMERALD BALL A GRAND SUCCESS

Everyone had a brilliant time at the 25th annual Emerald Ball. Owen Keating and John Aberton began the festivities with bagpipe and drum. As usual, Brid Dower thrilled the audience with her beautiful renditions of the National Anthems. The 2008 Colleen, Jackie Mc Andrew, introduced Little Miss Shamrock, Baylee Wheat and Outstanding Irish Teens, Holly Norquist and Siobhan Spiak. It was so good to have Father Joe Gillespie there to say Grace in the "ancient" and "foreign" languages. Our new neighbor at Trinity Cathedral, Dean Nicolas Knicely, also said Grace, "in case the first two didn't take". Sharko's prepared a delicious lemon chicken dinner topped off with chocolate mousse cake. Michael Pat Gallagher joined his students of the Tir Conaill Academy of Irish Dance for several rousing step dances. Then the Bleeding Scoundrels, Pat Mc Crossan, Jane Hilton and Johnny Kerr, put us all to work on the dance floor. It was delightful to see so many young folks join the old timers in a variety of dances. Look for Photos on our website in the next few weeks.

We don't have the final numbers on the proceeds but we had the Luck of the Irish and saved money in several areas this year. The bottom line should be very good.

ST. PATRICK'S DAY WAS BRILLIANT

The weather couldn't have been better for St. Patrick's Day even though it did become a bit breezy in the afternoon. The 25th annual parade was very entertaining as were all the musicians and dancers on both stages. There were lines at the food vendors but it was worth waiting for the variety. The IFA sold a few more hats, shirts and memberships.

IRISH TEA

There will be an Irish Tea at the Cultural Center on Sunday, April 6, from 1:00 PM until 4:00. Fancy hats are not required but if you feel like wearing your Easter Bonnet, it will add to the festivities. Patricia Prior will provide delicious treats. Donations will be accepted. Everyone is invited to join the fun.