May 2023
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Learn the Shocking True Story Behind This Novel of Immigration
John Heagney’s four years of family history research turned up some surprises, particularly for his wife Linda. She came from the Scots-Irish clan that owned Dunluce Castle, the fairytale cliffside ruins on the spectacular Antrim coast in Northern Ireland. She had three ancestors on the Mayflower. His own ancestors trod a more humble path. “As far back as the 18th century it was Heagney the dirt farmer, Heagney the dirt farmer, Heagney the dirt farmer, Heagney […] Read More
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The Best Seat in the House: A Dance Judge Takes You Behind the Scenes
By Kate O’Neill Wosczyna In the fall of 1974 when I was four, my Mom started me in Irish dancing. Being a first generation Irish American, my Mom felt it was important that I remain close to my Irish heritage. All four of my grandparents were from Ireland–Mayo, Donegal, and Tyrone. Along with the dancing, I attempted playing the accordion, fiddle, piano, and tin whistle. Needless to say (and for the betterment of everyone’s ears), […] Read More
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Cherishing Joanie Madden
By Frank Keel Many apt descriptors come to mind when one thinks about Joanie Madden, the world-renowned flute and tin whistle virtuoso and unquestionable leader of the acclaimed Irish-American trad band, Cherish The Ladies. Gifted. Visionary. Trail-blazing. All the terms fit. But, for this long-time fan of Cherish The Ladies and Joanie Madden, there is one descriptor that truly captures the essence of this remarkable musician and band leader. Indefatigable. Take a glance at her […] Read More