The O’Connor name, with its varied spellings, doesn’t spring from a common source. The name arose in five areas of Ireland: Connacht, Kerry, Derry, Offaly, and Clare and split into six distinct septs, five of which are still in existence. The most prominent sept is that of the Connacht O’Connors who gave us the last two High-Kings of Ireland: Turlough O’Connor (1088-1156) and … [Read more...] about Roots: O’Connor
2006
Review of Books
FICTION F.X. Toole found literary success at the age of 70, and his first collection of stories Rope Burns was the basis for Clint Eastwood’s Oscar winning film Million Dollar Baby. Sadly, Toole (whose dad was an Irish immigrant) died before the film hit the screen. But we do have one more work from this late-blooming artist, a boxing novel called Pound for Pound. As Toole … [Read more...] about Review of Books
First Word: America The Beautiful
We are treated to a bevy of Irish beauties in this issue - from Miss USA to the Rose of Tralee. And not to get sentimental (I think it's part of being Irish, or at least my genetic code, to get more sentimental as I get older), the fact that this year's Rose, Kathyrn Anne Feeney, is from Queensland, Australia, really struck a chord. As readers will know, I have a fierce … [Read more...] about First Word: America The Beautiful
Slainte: Ghosts, Goblins & Ghoulies
Edythe Preet writes on the creepy creatures inhabiting forest, fen, hillock, and shore of the Emerald Isle. When it comes to goblins, ghosts and ghoulies, most folk – without a fluttering heartbeat’s hesitation – will name Transylvania as the epicenter for scary creatures of the night. There’s hardly a soul that hasn’t shivered in fear while watching one of the many filmed … [Read more...] about Slainte: Ghosts, Goblins & Ghoulies
When Latvian Eyes Are Smiling
Last year they opened a new Irish pub on Main Street here [Milford, Michigan]. O’Callaghan’s they call it, and it’s owned by two Palestinians who did it up in high Paddy style, with snugs and dark hardwoods, Guinness and designer lagers and a couple of imported boyos behind the bar. The décor came from Dublin in a kit. The lads came on their own from Wexford to pull pints, pour … [Read more...] about When Latvian Eyes Are Smiling