Editor’s Corner: Losing too Many Heroes
by John O’Brien, Jr.
The Irish community is losing too many heroes. We can’t stop the march of time, or the pain that comes with it. Patrick Fallon of Columbus passed away November 26th. He was a tough, proud Irishman, with a tender heart for those putting in the work. He always was encouraging to me with Cleveland Irish Fest, the paper and my books, and endlessly supportive. The obit is within; may he rest in peace; may his family find solace in how much he is loved.
I greatly enjoyed Derek Warfield & The Young Wolfe Tones show at Music Box, and Tomaseen Foley’s Celtic Christmas at Medina Performing Arts Center. It was the the launch of the winter concert season, unimpeded by weather. From Christmas season right through St. Patrick’s Day, the musical offerings are varied, frequent and full of great joy and memory creating moments. Set aside a little of the leftover (ha, ha, I know) Christmas money and check out live music near you. Your support in person is more important than ever.
So looking forward to Scythian, Dublin City Ramblers and High Kings visits, as well as the unending blessings of locally based bands here in Ohio, who are equally as gifted and entertaining, and add such joy to our music scene all year long. Out & About Ohio on pages xx & xx give a great listing for what’s happening, when and where to help budget those left over Christmas dollars.
We had our first OhioIANews Christmas party in December. It was the first time some of our columnists and support staff have met in person. I loved seeing the interaction and the laughter. Twelve years gone, and we are just getting started.
If you know of someone looking for a great part-time job that pays well and is very time flexible, or seeking an internship where they have real responsibility and opportunity to learn and grow, we are looking for an advertising account rep and three interns. They can reach me at [email protected].
We are all looking forward to meeting the new Ohio Centre Rose of Tralee, being selected February 16th. The experience of being the Ohio Rose has dramatically altered and broadened the life of every Rose I have spoken to. The current Ohio Rose, Erin Stefancin, has a retrospective of her year within; you will see what I mean. The Impact will last the rest of her life.
Lat but not least, congratulations to all the Irish dancers and schools that competed in the 2018 Oireactas, held in Louisville this year. All did well, some won titles too. We share a few pics within.
To all of you, and all of us, may this year, be our best year yet.
…
Nuair a stadann an ceol, stadann an rinnce
(when the music stops, so does the dance).
John
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Milestones:
Congratulations to Fr. Jim, Sister Maggie and all the so generous volunteers who work with the Little Brothers and Sisters of the poor, and their main fundraiser, The Visitation Home Reunion Dance! For 20 years all of you have made a huge difference in so many young person’s lives. Thank you.
