Emerald Reflections Online

Irish Fest Music Archives: Patrick Gilmore

by Barry Stapleton, Director Irish Music Archives

Patrick Stephen Gilmore was born on Christmas Day in 1829 in Ballygar, Co. Galway. Catholic Emancipation in Ireland was only six months old when he was born. He was musical from the outset as he learned to play the fiddle, fife and drum. Marching bands were everywhere in those days and Patrick joined the Ballygar band. On a trip to Athlone in 1843 he saw the professionalism of the big British Army regimental bands and was hooked. Upon asking his father to join the band the answer was an emphatic no. But soon the famines raged the land and his father consented to young Patrick so that he could escape. He joined a regimental band as a trumpeter and was transferred to Canada.

His sojourn in Canada only lasted a year before he made his way to Boston, which was the musical capital of the United States. He held positions in various posts in bands that worked with the great entertainers of the day including P. T. Barnum and the Swedish Nightingale Jenny Lind. In 1855 Patrick moved to Salem, Massachusetts where he met his wife, Ellen O’Neill. It is also in Salem where Patrick dropped his middle name of Stephen and adopted the name of Sarsfield, one of the more famous names in Irish history.

He had missed Boston and returned there in 1859. By 1861 he was known as America’s greatest bandleader and he organized many regimental bands for the Union. His own band, Gilmore’s Band, served as the regimental band for the 24th Massachusetts Infantry during the Civil War. He subsequently wrote many notable tunes of the day, especially for the war. Two of his compositions are still recognized today. He wrote the melody to the words of John Brown’s Body by Captain Halgren and this was destined to become one of the great marches of all time, and an unofficial national anthem, when it became known as The Battle Hymn of the Republic. Before the war ended he wrote the music to another poem by Louis Lambert which became the famous song When Johnny Comes Marching Home.

While music historians today recognize the above two compositions as a huge gift to our patriotic repertoire, Gilmore was known during his lifetime as more of an organizer of extravagant events than a composer. His first major event was held in New Orleans at the inauguration of Governor Hahn in 1864. He assembled a choir of 5,000 school children and an orchestra of 500 pieces. This made national news and for his efforts he was awarded a silver goblet filled with gold coins. In 1869 he put on his “National Peace Jubilee” in Boston. In this undertaking he built a new auditorium to hold the spectacle which was presented with 10,000 voices, 1,000 instruments, 100 bells and cannons. He also had 100 real fireman hammering out the Anvil Chorus. Because of its success Gilmore decided to do it one more time with twice as many performers. The “World Peace Jubilee” in 1871 included 20,000 voices, 2,000 instruments and several hundred bells and cannons. He built an auditorium capable of holding 50,000 people. He called on royalty from around the world to send bands of which England, France, Germany, Austria, Belgium and Ireland all complied. World famous composer Johann Strauss composed The Jubilee Waltz for the occasion. Even by today’s standards these numbers are huge. It is estimated that over 18 days a million people attended this event.

Another fact about Gilmore is that he took over the old Hippodrome in New York and named it Gilmore’s Concert Garden. It is now known as Madison Square Garden. He later became the bandmaster of the 22nd regiment band in New York. It is with this band that a tradition started that the world still recognizes today. Every December 31, beginning in 1888, the band would play in Times Square and at midnight Patrick Gilmore would fire his pistol to bring in the New Year. He was also the first bandmaster to take his bands around the country and overseas for grand concerts

Patrick Sarsfield Gilmore died on September 24, 1892. That very night a young man by the name of John Philip Sousa gave his first concert and dedicated the concert to the life of Gilmore. Gilmore was noted for his flamboyant showmanship and innovations and was America’s first musical “Superstar.”

Rock County

UPCOMING EVENTS

• MARCH 16 – St. Patrick’s Day Party at the Senior Center; 5:30 p.m.; (no regular meeting)

• APRIL 20 – Potluck dinner (6 p.m.) and Regular Membership Meeting (7 p.m.)

• MAY 18 – Regular Membership Meeting

The Shamrock Club of Rock County and the Janesville Senior Center are co-sponsoring the St. Patrick’s Day Party again this year, so get out the Green and come to the Party on March 16. There will be a fine Irish menu at 5:30 p.m. and “Casey’s Fancy” will entertain us at 6:30 p.m. This fine evening of fine Irish food and great music can be enjoyed for the small fee of only $5.50 per person. You may make reservations by calling the Senior Center at 755-3040 or Tom Kennedy at 752-3667.

We are interested in how many of our members are receiving Emerald Reflections. If you are receiving Emerald Reflections, please call 752-3667 and let us know.

Hope to see all of you members at the party. Remember, guests are always welcome.

Fox Cities

MARCH LIVE MUSIC

Celtic Knot

• -March 6 and 12; 7 p.m. at The Palace dinner theater at Reifs Mills (920) 732-3172
• -March 7 and 14; 1 p.m. at The Palace dinner theater at Reifs Mills
• -March 17 at Mark’s East Side; 7-10 p.m. (Appleton)
• -March 20 at Naut’s Landing; 7-10 p.m. (Menesha)

Mike and Karen Cove

• -March 19 at Cafe Latte; 7:30-9:30 p.m. (Appleton)

Druids Table

• -March 13 at Washington House; 7 p.m. (1622 Jefferson St., Two Rivers)

SEASONAL GREAT EATS

Irish Soda Bread

• -March 17 at Breadsmith

Corned Beef and Cabbage

• -March 16-17 at Mark’s Eastside
• -March 10-18 at Spats on College Ave. (exception: Mar. 12)

The Greater LaCrosse Area
Shamrock Club, Inc.

Congratulations to Tom Nolan and Mary Tracy whom we have selected to be our Irishman and Irish Rose for 2004.

They will be honored at our annual Saint Patrick’s Banuqet to be held March 13 at Forest Hills in LaCrosse. Their stories follow:

2004 LaCrosse Irishman of the Year Tom Nolan and Irish Rose Mary Tracy

MARY TRACY
Irish Rose 2004

Husband: Jim Tracy, State Farm Insurance Agent. Children: Sandy Drendel, Susie Rudesill, Shannon Schneider. Grandchildren: Travis, Ricci, and Scott Rudesill.

I graduated from Aquinas High School in 1957. While attending high school, I started the ushering system for the Mary E. Sawyer Auditorium in 1956, and held the position for 46 years before retiring in 2002 from the LaCrosse Center.

I began my own business, “Mary’s Ceramics” in 1962 and enjoyed painting and teaching ceramics classes in my home for 40 years. During this time, I was an exhibitor at the Holiday Folk Fair for many years.

I am presently the manager of the Franciscan Skemp Hospital Gift Shoppe in LaCrosse, where I have been for 17 years.

My husband, Jim, and I were first members at Holy Trinity Catholic Church before moving to Onalaska. I sang in the church choir and volunteered at the school for many years, including teaching ceramics to children in my home for their art classes. After moving to Onalaska, Jim and I joined St. Patrick’s Church where we are currently members.

I have been active in many organizations in the LaCrosse area over the years. I was a charter members of the LaCrosse Lioness Club, a charter member, past president, secretary and treasurer of the Hillview Ladies Golf League, and a past board member of the LaCrosse Library Dickens Home Tour. I was a past chairman of the “Tiny Tim” fund raiser, and remain an active board member of the organization to date. My husband and I were active members in the LaCrosse Oktoberfest Grenadier Corps., and we were past Generals in 1990. I have continued my involvement in Oktoberfest through the Oktoberfest Ball as a past and present chairperson. I am a past member of the Mardi Gras Board and my husband and I were named Rex and Queen VI of LaCrosse Mardi Gras in 1998. Currently, I am a member of the Franciscan Skemp Auxiliary, the LaCrosse Shamrock Club and a member of the LaCrosse Grenadier Alumni Corp.

TOM NOLAN
Irishman 2004

First of all, ’tis a great honor to represent the Shamrock Club of LaCrosse as Irishman of the Year. The Shamrock Club is held in high regard by this community for it’s overall civic contributions and for being the custodian of local Irish Heritage. For most of the last 15 years, I have been privileged to play lead Banjo and harmonica on the Shamrock Club Float in the Oktoberfest Parade. In 2003 we received the “Oktoberfest Parade Theme Music Award” due largely to the presence of the real musicians on board, Rick Przywojski, Lois Przywojski, my brother Terry Nolan and the great decorating job by the float volunteers. If an Irish float in a German parade seems out of place, I can only tell you that the reaction from the crowd as we pass by is something akin to scoring the winning touchdown at Lambeau Field (Art Gale eat your heart out!)

I owe my Irish heritage principally to my father, Donovan Nolan, whose paternal grandparents, John Nolan and Bridget (Reynolds) Nolan came to America in 1843 from Ballinasloe, Co. Galway. His maternal grandparents, Henry McGary and Martha (Dunnum) McGary evolved from County Down. But, also to my mother, Delta (Johnson) Nolan, whose homemade soda bread, corned beef and cabbage, and apple pie made sense of it all.

I was born in LaCrosse and have lived here most of my life, attending St. Mary’s Grade School (a wonderful Irish Parish that would suspend Lent for St. Patrick’s Day), Aquinas High School, UWL, and Viterbo. After graduating from Aquinas in 1961, I enlisted in the Navy and spent four and a half years as a Corpsman/ Optician. With an honorable discharge I returned to LaCrosse and began a 25 year career with the Benson Optical Company eventually becoming the area manager. Presently, I am semi-retired and work part time for the Gundersen/Lutheran Eye Clinic in Onalaska. My lovely, most patient wife of 35 years, Jeannine, is a Nurse Practitioner with the Scenic Bluffs Community Clinic in Norwalk and together we have raised two wonderful Irish daughters. Bridget is an elementary school teacher in Madison and Katie is a journalism major at the University of Minnesota.

Jeannine and I have plans to visit Ireland in May and Sturgis (that’s another story) in August and we are eagerly looking forward to the 2004 Shamrock Club activities.

Dane County

On February 10, 2004, at our regular meeting, we had the pleasure of being entertained by The Post Office Pipers. This bagpipe group played for one half hour and were well received by all. Additionally, we had a lecture from Dr. Timothy McMahon, a professor of Irish history at Marquette University. His topic covered the “troubles of Northern Ireland” with a broad overview culminating in an emphasis of some of the aspects of the last 35 years.

Our activities which are forthcoming for March include all the elements of Saint Patrick’s Parade Day, which will be March 14, 2004. Those elements include the Shamrock Shuffle Race (5K) at 10:30 a.m.; Catholic Mass at 10:30 a.m.; Flag Ceremony at Capitol at 12 Noon; Parade at 1:30 p.m. The Dane County Saint Patrick’s Celebration will be at 5:15 p.m., on March 17, 2004, at the Coliseum Bar. Everyone is invited!!

Best Regards,

Madison’s 2004 St. Patrick’s Day Parade

MARCH 14 ON THE CAPITOL SQUARE
2004 Parade Theme: “THE PIPES ARE CALLING”

PARADE DAY EVENTS

• 10 a.m. SHAMROCK SHUFFLE RUN, sponsored by Famous Footwear. St. Patty Shuffle/run/walk: Will start at Willy St. – Spaight – through Orton Park – Rutledge – Baldwin – Morrison – Thornton (turn at Spaight) and return.

• 10:30 a.m. PARADE MASS at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, 404 E. Main St. Madison, WI. With music by Madison Folk Harp Society “Mad City Harpers” and “Navan”

• 12 noon FLAG OF IRELAND RAISING CEREMONY in the Capitol hosted by Dane County Shamrock Club.

• 1:30 p.m. MADISON’S ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE on the Square, sponsored by Park Bank. 2004 Parade Theme is “The Pipes are Calling.” Media sponsors: Charter Communications, WOLX 94.9, TRIPLE M 105.5, 105.1 THE BUZZ, Web site sponsors Wired Republik Parade web site: www.stpatsmadison.com

• 3 p.m. ST. PAT’S EVE PARTY at the Park Ponderosa Ballroom, Mc Farland. Sponsored by the Celtic Music Association and Celtic Cultural Center Web site www.celticmadison.org

More details on this and other St. Patricks Day Events will be posted on the web sites in the coming weeks.

Milwaukee President’s Message

Ladies and Gentlemen, all members of the Shamrock Club;

Lá Fhéile Pádraig sona duit ... Happy Saint Patrick’s Day to All Shamrock Club members.

Congratulations to Irishman of the Year Brian Witt, our Irish Rose, Gail Neville, and our Parade Marshals, Bob and Judy Towne. These individuals are invaluable to our Club and even today continue to work for other improvements while expanding our organization.

The Annual Special Mass to Honor St. Patrick will begin at 8:30 a.m. at St. Patrick’s Church. Archbishop Dolan will officiate the Mass, so make sure you arrive early. An all-you-can-eat pancake breakfast will be available after the service at the school next door. Catch the bus to assure your seat for both events. See Chuck McLaughlin for details.

It is said that everybody is Irish on Saint Patrick’s Day, and a good number of that “everybody” will probably show up to celebrate our Patron Saint, somewhere, somehow, someway. Many will crowd the streets of downtown Milwaukee to watch, if not the biggest parade (no tigers, lions, bears or elephants), but the best parade. Other folks will be Green with envy.

Don’t forget that the March meeting date was changed to March 11. Come down, doings start at 7 p.m., get birthday cake, sing a happy song. We are 44 years old this year. Well, the Shamrock Club is. And do not forget to stop in at the Milwaukee Museum on March 7 for the Shamrock Club’s great to-do there. Muriel Crowley has arranged another great day of entertainment and culture at the Irish cottage in the European Village, including the Glencastle Dancers, ceili instruction, Irish music, and craftspeople, as well as St Patrick himself, in the shape of Tom McAleese.

The Shamrock Club Color Guard, Pipes and Drums will, as always, lead our parade through a downtown route which features the diversity of our city – down Wisconsin Avenue past the old and new architectural facades, up Plankinton Ave., to Juneau, then on to Water Street.

The Post Parade Party also features the best of the old and new, from the traditional dance troupes to the forward sounding Celtic music of Leahy’s Luck, Blarney, Celtic Keep, etc... and don’t forget to fortify with Miller Beer and corned beef sandwiches. See the full ad for more details.

Buy the raffle tickets. They support our scholarship program. And the raffle is back in the hands of the Quinlans again, after having the Barclays in as caretakers for the past couple of years. You can get more tickets at the March meeting and the Post Parade Party.

The Volunteer Party was a huge success ... special thanks to Sharon Murphy, who got the lists together and arranged the catering, entertainment and the overall fun. A reminder to all coordinators, please keep your volunteer lists up-to-date. Identifying our most valuable assets and properly thanking them with this party, though small reward, is how we grow our community and our club.

And buy your new Shamrock Club clothing. We have a new selection of polo and T shirts that will be available for sale at our events in March.

Milwaukee Introduces,
with Great Honor, 2004 Irishman of the Year,
Irish Rose and Parade Marshals:
Brian Witt, Gail Neville, and
Judy and Bob Towne

Left to right: Parade Marshals Judy and Bob Towne, Irish Rose Gail Neville, and Irishman of the Year Brian Witt.

The four honorees for 2004 have shown the volunteer nature of the Shamrock Club. Irish Rose Gail Neville was a member of the Color Guard for many years, and also served on the Shamrock Club board for a number of years. Irishman Brian Witt is the current editor of the Emerald Reflections, and set up and manages the Shamrock Club website. He is also a past president of the Shamrock Club, and has served on the boards of a number of different organizations, and is a coordinator for Milwaukee Irish Fest. His is also the voice on 77-IRISH. Parade Marshals Bob and Judy Towne seemed to have joined the Shamrock Club to work, and they have done a lot of that in the decade of their membership. All are proud of their association with the Shamrock Club, and all have added to the Irish community of Milwaukee and Wisconsin.

Brian Witt, Irishman of the Year

I was born into common circumstances; although not a log cabin, I did live in a reconverted livery stable with my four sisters and brother Gerry for a number of years. My earliest influence, at least as far as Irish culture and awareness, was my mother, an Irish-Canadian named Olive O’Hara Witt. She inculcated in me a sense of being Irish, and of the power of St. Patrick in our lives. Irish and Irish-American songs were always sung when we were young, and when her family came down for a visit, the kitchen singing sessions that are so common in many Hibernian households were held. And I grew up in the St. Thomas Aquinas neighborhood, with the plethora of Irish priests and nuns and unstated sense of Irishness. And then on to St. John Cathedral High School, with those Irish Dominican nuns again. And, as it turns out, Sharon Murphy and Joseph Hughes, both classmates, (1971), and later to serve on the Shamrock Club board with me.

When I was at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, I was more involved in Italian culture and life, to the point where I was president of the university’s Italian Club. Strangely, it was that interest that got me more involved in Irish life. The poet John Ciardi spoke at the school one time, and he talked of the evolution of language, and how Latin borrowed from the Celtic languages. This caused me to spend endless time in the library stacks, researching this new path. Ah, these Celts still had a living language. And it had a direct connection to me.

Still, if not for my wife, Mary, I might never have joined the Shamrock Club. I had worked at the first two Irish Fests, and stopped for a few years rest, most likely in anticipation of my future involvement. As we walked through the Cultural Tent at Irish Fest, people invited us to join the Club. I deferred. Mary pulled out the checkbook, and signed us up, noting that I had been saying I wanted to join for a number of years. It was a fateful purchase, and one I wonder if she rues to this day.

The next month, I went to a Shamrock Club meeting and it was announced that John Gleeson was teaching Gaelic classes at Nash’s. I went down, and immediately got drawn into a part of Irish culture in the city I never realized existed. Among my classmates were Kathy Radaj, Kathy Mallon, and Sue Dundon. All of them would be entertwined in the fabric of my life from thereon in. (All are past Irish Roses, too.) And after the Irish classes, I got involved in Irish Fest Theatre, Milwaukee InterCeltic Cooperative, was one of the incorporating Board members on the Irish Cultural and Heritage Center, and on to Irish Fest. I also ended up doing two stints on Radio Erin on WYMS, 1989-91 and 1998-2000. I was also the cultural coordinator for Folk Fair with Kathy Radaj, have been the editor of Emerald Reflections since December 1999. I also served on the Shamrock Club board, as trustee, vice-president, president and past president. Currently, I am the coordinator of the Cultural Tent for Irish Fest, a part time job that takes up about three or four hours a year. I also edit the Shamrock Club web site with help from Gail (Williamson) Coss, and write the weekly email newsletter, Wisconsin Irish Week.

I have too many people to thank without taking up about as much room as my monthly messages once did. I do want to acknowledge a number of people, however, who influenced me and supported me. Barry Stapleton and Pete Dundon pushed me to get involved when I resisted; Sean Keane brought me onto Radio Erin, and got me started in the Irish concert business; Kit and Josie Nash; John Gleeson; and Jane Anderson from Irish Fest. And Mary Crivello-Witt, who supported me during the many years I was gone, even before I moved to Detroit. Lots of long nights away from the house, when the grass grew deep and the repairs got put off in working with non-profits. And, of course, my mother. It has been a wonderful ride, and a great journey of constant discovery and revelation. And, I am oh so happy that it is just beginning.

Gail Neville, Irish Rose

I was born in Chicago, Illinois on January 17, 1942. In 1949, my family moved to the suburbs. I grew up in Deerfield, and went to high school in Highland Park. I lived in the north and northwest suburbs of Chicago until I met and married Tom Neville.

Tom brought me to Milwaukee in 1973, and we joined the Shamrock Club in 1974. We were very busy raising our eight children: Thomas, Timothy, William, John, Linda, Cathleen, Lisa, and Erin, and didn’t realize our membership had run out. Our children grew and got married, and we now have eighteen grandchildren.

Tom and I rejoined the Shamrock Club in 1986, and Tom joined the Color Guard, and I became the unofficial seamstress, making the old uniforms for the new members of the Guard. I became an official member of the Color Guard in 1989, and was a member for the next ten years. I was a marching member for five years, and the equipment manager for five years, and the jack-of-all-trades for Chuck McLaughlin, the director of the Color Guard. I worked on all the fundraisers for the Color Guard, which included the Irish breakfasts, all the concerts, spaghetti dinners, and dances. I also worked the dinner dances for the Color Guard honoring the members of the Color Guard for their years of service.

During those years, I also volunteered for the Bradley Center for about ten years, the Folk Fair, and the Board of Directors for five years, two as secretary, and three as a Trustee. I also served on the Parliamentary Committee and the Audit Committee.

I am very pleased to be chosen as Irish Rose.

Judy and Bob Towne, Parade Marshals

Judy and Bob both were brought up in the Merrill Park area. Judy went to St. Rose of Lima Grade School and Cathedral High School. Bob went to Wisconsin Avenue Grade School and Boys Tech High School. They met on an Easter Sunday blind date, and were married the next year. They have five children, three girls and twin boys. They are also the proud grandparents of eight grandchildren. That Easter blind date worked out, because they have been married for forty-three years. After their marriage, they continued to live in the Merrill Park area, on 28th and Michigan, before moving to 40th and Lloyd. There they were active in the St. Thomas Aquinas parish, where the sense of volunteerism started, with the Townes working the bingo games and the fish fries.

After a move to 25th and Grange, they joined the Shamrock Club during Brian Witt’s term as president. They retired in 1995, Bob from the City of Milwaukee. After joining the Shamrock Club, Bob joined the Ancient Order of Hibernians, and the two of them became active in the Irish Genealogical Society of Wisconsin. They have been to Ireland three times since retiring. They also volunteer at Irish Fest every year, working the Thursday of the festival, and then in the Genealogy Tent the other three days, helping people in the discovery of their lineage. Bob and Judy also work the Bradley Center for the Shamrock Club, and at the ICHC for the Post Parade Party. They also work the concerts at the ICHC, and help with the mailing of the IGSW’s quarterly newsletter.

19th Annual Special Mass to Honor St. Patrick

Will be held prior to the St. Patrick’s Day Parade
Saturday, MARCH 13, 2004 at 8:30 a.m. at St. Patrick’s Church
723 South 7th at Washington Street, Milwaukee

Sign reader for hearing impaired

Shuttle Bus: from ICHC rear parking lot (2133 W. Wisconsin Ave.) to St. Patrick’s Church and after Mass return to Parade Route or parking lot for just $3 per person. Bus to leave sharply at 7:45 a.m. for the Church

Tickets for bus can be purchased by mail or at the Shamrock Club March General Meeting

ATTN: breakfast WILL be served.
Due to many requests breakfast will not be cancelled.
All You Can Eat Pancakes will be served at the school next door to the church.

For Bus reservations or information contact:
Chuck and Bonnie McLaughlin
12007 W. Walker Street, West Allis, WI 53214; Phone: (414) 771-0458
Send self-addresed, stamped envelope. Make checks payable to Shamrock Club

Mail reservations for BUS ONLY

Name______________________________________

Address_______________________________________

City/State/Zip_____________________________________

Phone: Number of Reservations______ Amount $_________

Bus Reservations will not be taken after March 7

Shamrock Club
38th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade

Saturday, MARCH 13, 2004

Noon – Downtown Milwaukee

The Shamrock Club Parade will step off at 3rd and Wisconsin a little after noon. The route will go to Plankinton, then to Old World Third Street, to Juneau, over to Water Street, and then south towards Wisconsin Avenue. There will be t-shirts and baseball caps on sale along the parade route,and at the Water Street bars.

For more information on the parade, contact Tim O’Brien (414) 444-1989; Mick McDermott, (262) 786-6363, or hjmick@aol.com; or Dan Malloy at (414)315-2424, (262) 432-0181 Ext 112, or email at dmalloy@aadus.com. Or view www.stpatricksparade.org

Shamrock Club Post Parade Party

Saturday, MARCH 13, 2004 1–6 p.m. 

(Doors Open at 12:20 p.m.)
Irish Cultural and Heritage Center – 2133 West Wisconsin Avenue, Milwaukee

Four stages of continuous entertainment:

--HALLAMOR
2:30 [Glencastle Irish Dancers];
3:00 [Leahy's Luck];
4:15 [Cashel Dennehy];
5:00 [Trinity Irish Dancers]

--PARLOR B
1:00 [Bantry Bay]
2:10 [Celtic Keep]
3:20 [St. Brendan’s Voyage

--UPSTAIRS
1:30 [Blarney]
3:15 [Caledonian Scottish Dancers]
3:45 [Blarney]

--BASEMENT: CHILDRENS AREA
3:00 [Silent Singers]
3:45 [McTaggarts Thrill Show]

Bands, Irish Dance Schools, Scottish Dancers, Bagpipe Bands, Children’s Area Food and Beverages available!!!

Adults $6 / Children (6-12) $3

Volunteers needed: call Kristine and Daryl Pluskota (414) 768-8876 or send email to dkplus@tds.net.

All volunteers receive an entrance pass, meal ticket and beverage ticket for each two hour shift worked. Also, an invitation to the Volunteer Thank You Party held each year in February is extended to those giving of their time. Volunteering provides a wonderful chance to socialize and meet new friends while making money for the club. Please, lend a hand!

Attention Shamrock Club Members:

The Shamrock Club Board of Directors would like some feedback from you. We’re trying to assess the direction and needs of the club.

We’d like to know what we’re doing right. What we’re doing wrong. What you think we should be doing. What you think we shouldn’t be doing. How are our meetings going, as far as format, location, etc.? And what concerns you’d like the Board to address. Please address your comments and calls to:

Michael Payne
Vice President-Shamrock Club,
Milwaukee Chapter
c/o 2133 W. Wisconsin Ave.
Milwaukee, WI 53233
(414) 541-8427

Please include a phone number or address so that we may follow up with you for additional feedback or clarification.

Nominations for Milw. Officers

Nominations for Shamrock Club officers will take place at the March and April general meetings. Nominees must be present at the time of nomination, and must be members in good standing, with current dues paid. The elections will take place at the May general meeting.

Bradley Center Appeal

At the January meeting when President Joe Hughes called on me for a Bradley Center report and I got up and said that I wasn’t going to ask for more volunteers to work at the Bradley Center I heard a surprised gasp from some of you. But really, sometimes I think that I have been asking for your help, it seems like, forever, and that you no longer hear me.

Now this is very serious. At this time we have 43 great and dependable hard working managers. We should have three teams of 18 people and at least two subs for each team. At this time we don’t even have 18 people on any team. We desperately need at least 20 new people. At the end of this season we will lose several people due to retirement (only benefit is feeling good about all the years that they worked and enjoyed it.)

If we don’t get at least that many, we may have to give up this very easy and lucrative fund raiser. The Bradley Center paid us more than $1500 for four events. When I say easy I mean we don't have to buy any products before the event and take a loss on left overs, no money that we have to risk on the success. We don’t have to chose a location (no rent) or dates, no advertising costs. This is a win-win job. Even if the event at the Bradley Center isn’t a sellout, we don’t lose any money. Last season we brought in more than $9,000. Can anyone think of a fund raiser that we can bring in that kind of money without a risk of loss?

We need six people to work the cash register, take orders fill them and get the money, one person to keep the popcorn boxes full, three people to pour beer as ordered, three people to pour soda, two people to fill the nacho dishes and put them into the warmer. We also have one cash manager who gets the change and counts the money at the end of the event. At the start of the event we all do some counting of the inventory (that is there) and set up the booth. At the end of the event we count the inventory and clean up the booth. The Bradley Center gives us parking passes. We try to car pool as they are limited but if you have to pay, tell your Shamrock manager and you will be reimbused right then. We are also given a choice of any food item on the menu, Shamrock Club pays. We are not allowed to drink any alcoholic beverage at the Bradley Center when we work. We start two hours before the event to get ready for the people who arrive one hour before. It depends on how fast we clean up after the event to determine when we leave. Now, doesn’t that sound like a pleasant way to spend an evening? I didn’t even mention the really nice people who you will meet. Pick a job and let us know. You can even bring a significant other or friend who doesn't have to be a Shamrock Club member.

Katy Voss is our scheduler, (414) 352-6479, Cate Harris is Chairman (414) 321-5153. Call either of us, or call both.

Calling all Ladies Of the Club

Do you have a green long skirt sitting in your closet collecting dust. Are you no longer wearing it. Would you like to donate the skirt to the club for our costume inventory? If so please bring to the next meetings or drop off at the ICHC. If you need to purchase a skirt for your own collection, Maureen Quinlan Hayes has graciously agreed to make new skirts for our Costume Inventory. If you are interested in having a skirt made please call Kristine Pluskota at (414) 768-8876. The deadline for orders will be 3/30/04.

Scholarship Raffle

The Shamrock Club Scholarship Raffle is taking place again. Tickets have been mailed out to members, and will also be on sale at the March meeting and the Post Parade Party. The raffle will be held on Thursday, April 1, at the Shamrock Club general meeting, at 7:30 pm. All money and ticket stubs must be returned by that time.

Raffle stubs and money can be mailed to Kathleen Quinlan Boeing, 8700 W. Spokane , Milwaukee, WI 53224. Requests for information, or requests for more tickets, can be sent to kquinlan@tmore.org, or by calling Kathleen Quinlan Boening at (414) 358-2960. Top prize is $1000, second prize is $200, third prize is $100, fourth is $50, and three prizes of $25 each. Tickets are $2 each, three for $5, and six for $10, or twelve for $20.

Shamrock Club Clothing

There is a new line of Shamrock Club clothing for sale. It includes polo shirts, long sleeve t-shirts and short sleeve t- shirts. They will be on sale at the March meeting, as well as the Post Parade Party.

Celtic Women First Friday Lectures

MAR. 5, 2004. Topic: “Irish Poets Yeats and Kavanaugh: Compare and Contrast.” Speaker: Jim Kearney, a Marquette High School instructor for 25 years in English; Jim teaches Irish literature including poetry. Yeats and Kavanaugh are his all-time favorites who have defined Irish poetry. He is also “Cathaorleach” (chairperson) of Conradh na Gaeilge, Gaelic League in Milwaukee.

APRIL 2, 2004. Topic: “The Manx Culture”. Speaker: Joyce Benjamin, past president, Wisconsin Manx Society. The Isle of Man, one of the smallest of Celtic countries, lies in the Irish Sea between Ireland and England. It is a very unique country, independent of outside control, with their own currency, stamps, whiskey and the famous Manx cats.

MAY 7, 2004. Topic: “Wisconsin Highland Games”. Speaker: Connie Young of Clan Young. Connie is a board member and officer in Wisconsin Scottish Inc., which will celebrate its third Games in 2004. Connie will relate the triumphs and trials of the relatively new Scottish Games venture. She also edits a newsletter for Clan Young Inc.

JUNE 4, 2004. Topic: “Immigration Patterns of the Celts to North America”. Speaker: Patricia Keeney Geyh, genealogist; co-director of the Irish Emigration Library housed at the ICHC in Milwaukee. Pat is a founding member of the Irish Genealogical Society of Wisconsin. She has been involved in genealogy for 28 years, traveling to libraries and archives throughout the U.S., Canada, Ireland, England, France and Denmark. Through all of this research she has become fascinated with the various migration patterns followed by immigrants into this country.

All lectures are held from 5:30 – 7 p.m. at the ICHC in Parlor A. Admission is $5. Everyone is welcome including men and non-members as well as Celtic Women members. Tea and biscuits are served. Please join us for a delightful few hours of Celtic education and entertainment. You may call the ICHC at (414) 345-8800 for more information.

ICHC Celtic Cookery School

The Cultural Arts Committee of the ICHC is very excited to introduce their new Cookery School for 2004. In fact they have secured the services of Ireland’s leading T.V. chef and culinary entertainer, Tim Rooney, for their first Irish Cooking Weekend on September 10, 11 and 12. Classes and demonstrations will be held at the ICHC and Nicolet High School. Friday’s night session will explore how wonderful Irish white and brown and traditional jams and preserves are made.

Saturday’s hands-on exercise at Nicolet High School will teach how to prepare a modern Irish buffet for 20 to 30 people and includes a gourmet lunch for course participants. Sunday’s cooking lesson will teach how to prepare a traditional Irish family dinner, students will sample the fare. The cost for the entire weekend is $160. Space is limited, early sign-up is essential. For application form please call the ICHC at (414) 345-8800 or stop by the ICHC and pick one up!

The Reading Of the Green

Join Milwaukee Irish Arts and friends for a reading from your favorite Irish writer. You’ll enjoy a selection of wordcraft wise, wild, warm and witty from Behan, Beckett, Joyce, O’Connor, O’Brien, Yeats, Wilde and many more in this Saint Patrick’s seasonal tribute to Ireland’s many literary giants. Sunday, March 7th at 2 p.m. in Parlor A, ICHC.

St. Patrick’s Day Quiz

How much do you know about St Patick's Day? Take this quiz from www.blackdog4kids.net

1. When is St. Patrick's Day celebrated every year?

a. Third Sunday in March
b.Second Wednesday in March
c. March 17th

2. St. Patrick drove snakes from Ireland by:

a. Playing a flute
b. Banging a drum
c. Eating shamrocks

3. While he was enslaved in Ireland, St. Patrick:

a. Converted the Irish to Christianity
b. Herded and tended sheep and swine
>c. Drove snakes and venomous beasts away

4. St. Patrick is the:

a. Patron saint of Ireland
b. Patron saint of snakes
c. Patron saint of Britain

5. Leprechauns are:

a. The national symbol of Ireland
b. Real creatures who drink mead
c.Self-appointed guardians of ancient treasure

1. March 17th. [ 2. Banging a drum ] 3. Herded and tended sheep and swine [ 4. Patron saint of Ireland ] 5. Self-appointed guardians of ancient treasure.

Spring Hallamor Concerts #2 and #3:

ALTAN
Thursday, March 4, 2004 – 8 p.m.

“No Traditional Irish band in the last dozen years has had a wider impact on audiences and music lovers worldwide than Altan. Throughout their illustrious career has been the band’s unwavering commitment to bring the beauty of traditional music, particularly that of Donegal fiddlers and singers to contemporary audiences. In fact, Altan has always believed that Irish traditional music is modern music in every sense. Its growing influence and popularity have proved them right.”

Altan achieves artistic excellence and demonstrates a respect for the tradition and the people who keep it alive.

The members of Altan are… Mairead Ni Mhaonaigh (Ma-RAY-ed Nee WEE-ney): lead vocals, fiddle; Ciaran Curran: bouzouki, bouzouki guitar; Ciaran Tourish: fiddle, tin whistle, vocals; Daithi Sproule: guitar, vocals; Dermot Byrne: button accordion, melodeon.

Kim Robertson will open at 7 p.m. Kim is a Celtic Harpist.

DANNY DOYLE
Friday, March 12, 2004 – 8 p.m.

Throughout his long and distinguished career, Danny Doyle has concentrated on what he does best – singing ballads, both old and new. He is indeed Ireland’s finest balladeer. As an inveterate collector of folk songs, he has been bringing the ballads, history and stories of Ireland to audiences around the world.

“Where does he get the songs?” The question begins Terry Tolan’s sleeve notes for the CD Under a Connemara Moon. Tolan then answers, “Danny Doyle has had an uncanny knack for unearthing neglected Irish Ballads… and finding brilliant new ones that have not yet found their way to the mainstream of Irish music. Perhaps the best measure of his success that, after Danny dusts them off, his ‘discoveries’ have a way of finding their way into the repertoire of other Irish singers as they fan out across the planet. And we find ourselves singing them as if we had known them all of our lives.”

Danny is a part of that rare group of Irish singers whose voices are instantly recognizable. It is a voice, a soft, mellow tenor, that Danny uses as much an instrument as the guitar he plays. The Irish Echo calls Danny Doyle “an international treasure.”

Chris Waltz will open at 7 p.m. Chris is a vocalist, who also plays guitar, fiddle, flute and whistle. He is from Taos, NM.

Irish Cultural and Heritage
Center of Wisconsin
2133 W. Wisconsin Avenue
Milwaukee, WI 53233
(414) 345-8800
Tickets: $19 Advance/reserved, $21 Door

Ulster Fun Night

On March 12, the Ulster Project will have its annual Ulster Fun Night at Mount Mary’s College, 92nd and Center Streets. The fun starts at 5 p.m., and features Cashel Dennehy, Glencastle and Trinity Irish dance schools. Ceol Cairde will provide music. There will be a silent auction. For more information, go to http://www.ulsterprojectmilwaukee.org .

Hop on the bus!

Shamrock Club Color Guard, Pipes and Drums are going to Chicago
Sunday, March 14, 2004

Chicago Southside St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Gaelic Park after Parade

$20 per person for Bus

$ 5 admission to Gaelic Park

Leave Watertown Plank Park and Ride at 8:15 a.m.

Stop at College Ave Park and Ride at 8:30 a.m.

Parade at Noon

Leave for Gaelic Park shortly after Unit finishes the parade

Leave Gaelic Park at 6 p.m.

For info and reservations:Call Rich (414) 769-1250

Come Join the fun, all Shamrock Club members are welcome!

14th Annual Brendan Heart Fund Benefit

On March 7, 2004, between the hours of 1 – 5 p.m., the Emerald Society of Wisconsin will be sponsoring the 14th annual benefit for the Brendan Heart Fund of Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin.

The Emerald Society of Wisconsin, an organization of members of the criminal justice system, held the first Brendan Benefit in 1990. The Benefits have always been held on a Sunday prior to St. Patrick’s Day at Derry Hegarty’s Irish Pub, 5328 W. Bluemoud Ave. This Benefit is designed to be a family event and we will continue to be a family oriented event. The cost of the attendance has the family in mind, $5 in advance and $6 at the door, children under 15 are free.

The afternoon’s entertainment will feature Blarney and The Glencastle Irish Dancers. Blarney is a well known Irish group that has delighted its audiences for 20 plus years. You will enjoy Blarney as they sing songs from their extensive library of Irish Music. There is no doubt that you will hear many of your favorites. This year we are also featuring the Glencastle Irish Dancers, and proud to say that this school is headed by one of the Emerald Society’s members, Bridget Jaskulski. You will be thoroughly entertained by the skill of the dancers as they perform the intricacies of Irish Dance. Again we will be featuring our monster raffle, a guest appearance of the Greater Milwaukee Fire & Police Pipes and Drums, and there are plans to extend the entertainment, past the 5 p.m. stated closing time.

Mark this date, March 7, on your family calendar and join us for a fine afternoon of Irish song and dance. Information can be obtained at: Emerald Society of Wisconsin; P.O. Box 24; Milwaukee, WI 53201-0024 or at our web page: www. emeraldsociety.us

New Genealogy Exhibit

When the current exhibit of wonderful Celtic Art at the ICHC comes down in early April it will be replaced by a major exhibition on Irish genealogy. Curated by the Irish Genealogical Society of Wisconsin, the display will feature “How to information”, sample family trees, historical material maps and photographs. There will be an official opening on Friday, May 7th at 7 p.m.

ICHC Noted Speakers Program

The ICHC’s popular Noted Speaker Program continues this spring with two entertaining and informative speakers coming to the ICHC April 20 and May 11. The program is supported by the ICHC Cultural Arts Committee, the Irish American Cultural Institute and UWM Center for Celtic Studies. Both events are free and open to the public. So mark your calendars and come join us for these fascinating evenings.

Brian Kennedy was born in Belfast in 1949 and received his Diploma and Higher Diploma in Fine Art from the Belfast College of Art. Since then he has exhibited widely in Europe and North America, and has held residencies in Ireland, Italy, Scotland, and the USA, most recently as the Arts Council of Northern Ireland’s fellow at The British School at Rome. His main focus has always been large-scale site-specific installations, but he has worked on photography, painting and performance art. As a practicing artist, he has a strong interest in artist-led projects. He is a past chairperson of Belfast’s Art and Research Exchange, a gallery and artists’ resource centre, He is a board member of the Fire Station Artists’ Studios in Dublin and a contributing editor of Circa art magazine. Brian’s talk will be at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, April 20th in the Hallamor.

Peter Browne is a noted Irish musician, broadcaster and producer of music programs for RTE, the Irish national broadcasting service. His teachers included: Leo Rowsome, Willie Clancy and Seamus Ennis. Peter will present an integrated history of the uilleann pipes from its first appearance in Ireland to the present day including a historic sketch of the bagpipe in medieval Europe, its possible journey to Ireland and evolution into the uilleann pipes of today. He will also talk about the making, maintenance, mechanical operation of the instrument and famous makers. Peter will make references to styles, repertoire and techniques of playing. Peter will discuss some famous collectors of pipe music and renowned players down the years. The recent history of the instrument, resurgence of the instrument’s popularity and its use in recent times in other genres of music will also be presented. Hear his talk on Tuesday, May 11 at 7 p.m. in the Hallamor.

Easter Rising Mass

Sunday, April 11, 2004, 9:30 a.m.

Celebrate the Mass In Honor Of the 1916 Easter Rising

Continental Breakfast

Irish Cultural and Heritage Center
2133 West Wisconsin Avenue,
Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Color Guard News and Notes

SPECIAL NOTICE:
Color Guard, Pipes and Drums members: next meeting is “Picture Day” on March 9, 6:30 p.m. at the ICHC. Followed by “St. Patrick’s Day Mass Practice” March 12, 6 p.m. at St. Patrick’s Church. Attendance Required at both meetings!

“Pride and Honor”

The Shamrock Club of Wisconsin’s Color Guard, Pipes and Drums will march into their 2004 parade/events schedule with a deep desire and commitment to performing and upholding the traditions, ancestry and honor of all that is Irish!

Months and months of planning rehearsing, organizing, practicing and effort have been put forth in preparation to proudly represent you, the members of the Shamrock Club of Wisconsin. As is the tradition of the Color Guard, Pipes and Drums, the 2004 schedule steps off with the St. Patrick’s Day Mass at St. Patrick’s Church, Saturday, March 13, beginning at 8:30 a.m.; new musical innovations to be unveiled should not only give you a “chill” but make you proud! Following, the Unit will lead the St. Patrick’s Day Parade through downtown Milwaukee (12 noon) and finish the day at the Post Parade Party, 1-6 p.m., at the Irish Cultural and Heritage Center.

The following day, Sunday, March 14, the Unit will represent the Shamrock Club of Wisconsin, for the 13th consecutive year (since 1991) by marching in the Chicago Southside Irish Parade. A bus will take us from Milwaukee to Chicago for the parade, followed by food, fun and loads of Irish music and entertainment at Gaelic Park and return home by 8 p.m. I mention this because everyone and anyone is welcome to join the group for this day, by riding from and to Milwaukee, being part of the parade (if you choose, or just enjoy being a spectator), enjoying the Irish atmosphere of Gaelic Park and having a great time! There is room on the bus for all who would like to experience a wonderful Irish day! The journey to Chicago is an “experience”. Food, refreshments, music, fun, laughter abound – and – the bus has a bathroom! So come and join us! Simply contact Rich Pfeiffer, Director of the Color Guard, Pipes and Drums, if you’re interested in a Irish-fantastic time!

The Shamrock Club of Wisconsin’s Color Guard, Pipes and Drums will round out their March performances by participating in the New (London) Dublin St. Patrick’s Day Parade at 1 p.m. on Saturday, March 20. This is an event that is building, year after year, a tradition of Irish food, music and fun for everyone.

Your Shamrock Club of Wisconsin Color Guard, Pipes and Drums is the most visible of all the fine, fine groups that represent the Shamrock Club of Wisconsin throughout the year. From appearances in Dublin (Ireland), New York, Boston, Savannah, New Orleans, San Antonio, Chicago and throughout the state of Wisconsin, your Color Guard, Pipes and Drums have – with “Pride and Honor” and loyalty to all that is Ireland/Irish and to you, the members – given their best. The new 2004 parade schedule offers up new challenges, and, offers you, the members, opportunities to continue to assist in continuing the tradition and honor of the Shamrock Club of Wisconsin and the Color Guard, Pipes and Drums. The following is our tentative schedule of parades/events for the start of 2004. Please take a look and see when the Unit is in a parade in or near your neighborhood. We need banner carriers! Whether as individuals or groups, you make it a “family affair”. All can take part by carrying the Shamrock Club banner in parades in front of your friends and neighbors; we need and want your support and participation! Please look at the 2004 schedule and contact Rich Pfeiffer, Director, to volunteer to carry the Shamrock Club of Wisconsin banner in a parade of your choice. We represent and succeed, for and because of, you, the members of the Shamrock Club of Wisconsin. Please, volunteer!

Parade/Event Schedule

Mar. 13: St. Patrick’s Mass, St. Patrick’s Church, 8:30 a.m.

Mar. 13: St. Patrick’s Day Parade, downtown Milwaukee,12 noon

Mar. 13: Post Parade Party, ICHC, 1-6 p.m.

Mar. 14: Chicago Southside St. Patrick’s Parade,12 noon

Mar. 20: New (London) Dublin St. Patrick’s Parade, 1 p.m.

Apr. 11: Easter Rising Mass, ICHC, 9 a.m.

If you would like to have the Shamrock Club Color Guard, Pipes and Drums appear in a parade, special event or family occasion – or you would like to join the Unit as a banner carrier, color guard, piper or drummer, please contact:

Richard Pfeiffer, Director
Shamrock Club
Color Guard, Pipes and Drums
Telephone: (414) 769-1250
E-mail: milwpiper@cs.com

Jim Beyer Benefit Run

The Dane County Shamrock Club, along with Famous Footwear, is sponsoring the 1st Annual Shamrock Shuffle – a 5K run/walk, held in conjunction with other St. Patrick’s Day events, on Sunday, March 14 at 10:30 a.m.

This year’s run is dedicated to Jim Beyer, the Creative Director for Famous Footwear who was tragically killed while out for a run on the afternoon of October 18. All proceeds from the race will go to the Jim Beyer Memorial Fund to benefit his wife and two young children.

This event is sanctioned by the USATF. Along with awards, door prizes and long sleeve t-shirts for the runners, spectators will enjoy Irish music, bagpipers and plenty of blarney. For further information or entry forms contact race directors Megan Sisson, John Gallagher or Lorrie Frautschi at the race website: www. stpatsmadison.com or call (608) 283-3193. For Jim, the Irish and all the runners who participate “go raibh maith agat” (good luck).

Madison’s 1st Annual Shamrock Shuffle

10:30 a.m. Sunday March 14, 2004

Machinery Row
601 Williamson Street, Madison,WI

A 5K benefit Run/Walk for the family of Jim Beyer, who was killed while jogging last summer. We wish to thank Famous Footware, Jim’s employer, for sposoring this event.

Check In – 9:30 to 10:15 a.m.

Parking available in nearby Doty St. Ramp

No Refunds: event will occur regardless of weather.

Your cancelled check is your confirmation.

Route: Machinery Row, Williamson St. east to Jenifer St. to Spaight St through Orton park to Rutledge St. to Baldwin St. to Morrison St. to Thorton Ave. along the Yahara River to turn-a-round and back to Start/Finish Line.

Join the Fun!

• Costumed particpants welcome!

• Door Prize Drawing for pre-registered participants.

• Irish Tunes at Start and Finish by Triple M Radio Personality Pat Gallagher.

• Bagpiper, Sean Michael Dargin, at the turn-a-round

• $100 Gift Certificate to overall 1st Place Male and Female

• Overall 1st Place Male and Female ride in convertible in the St. Pat’s Parade at 1:30 p.m.

• All participants invited to march in parade, 1:30 p.m.

• Indoor registration and Awards Ceremony if weather is inclement

Questions: 283-3196 (leave a message)

Access Shamrock Shuffle information at www.stpatsmadison.com

St. Patrick’s Help Fund

St. Patrick’s Help Fund needs all kinds of non-perishable foods, and pampers. Please place in container at each meeting. However, donations can be brought to the ICHC any time during the week. It is not restricted to just meetings. A big thank you to everybody who has contributed to help the needy people at St. Patrick’s. Questions? Call Katy Voss (414) 352-6479.

New Members

NOTE: Please send your dues to your Membership Chairperson in your chapter. All names and addresses are listed in Emerald Reflections.

Milwaukee – Douglas P. Berigan.

Membership Report Milwaukee Chapter:

• Dec.: 22 memberships up for renewal, 17 paid, 5 dropped for nonpayment.

• Jan.: 30 memberships up for renewal, 16 paid, 14 due.

• Feb.: 38 memberships up for renewal, 1 paid, 37 due.

Please: when making out membership checks, make payable to the Shamrock Club of Wisconsin, and not to me.