Holy WeekIn the Christian liturgical year, the week immediately preceding Easter, beginning with Palm Sunday. Solemn rites are observed commemorating the passion, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Special observances recalling the institution of the EUCHARIST are held on Maundy Thursday; Scripture readings, solemn prayers, and veneration of the cross recall the crucifixion of Christ on Good Friday. Holy Saturday commemorates the burial of Christ; midnight vigil services inaugurate the Easter celebration of the resurrection. Holy Week is sometimes called the "Great Week" by Roman Catholic and Orthodox Christians because it commemorates the great deeds of God for humankind.
Mardi Gras/Carnival(Fr., "fat Tuesday"), pre-Lenten festival celebrated in Roman Catholic countries and communities. In a strict sense, Mardi Gras, or Shrove Tuesday, is celebrated by the French as the last of the three days of Shrovetide and is a time of preparation immediately before Ash Wednesday and the start of the fast of LENT.
Mardi Gras is thus the last opportunity for merrymaking and indulgence in food and drink. In practice, the festival is generally celebrated for one full week before Lent. Mardi Gras is marked by spectacular parades featuring floats, pageants, elaborate costumes, masked balls, and people dancing in the streets.
Mardi Gras originated as one of the series of carnival days held in all Roman Catholic countries between Twelfth Night, or Epiphany, and Ash Wednesday; these carnivals had their origin in pre-Christian spring fertility rites. The most famous modern Mardi Gras festivities are those held in New Orleans, La.; Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; Nice, France; and Cologne, Germany.
Ash WednesdayIn Christian churches, the first day of the penitential season of Lent, so called from the ceremony of placing ashes on the forehead as a sign of penitence. This custom, probably introduced by Pope Gregory I, has been universal since the Synod of Benevento (1091). In the Roman Catholic church, ashes obtained from burned palm branches of the previous Palm Sunday are blessed before mass on Ash Wednesday. The priest places the blessed ashes on the foreheads of the officiating priests, the clergy, and the congregation, while reciting over each one the following formula: "Remember that you are dust, and unto dust you shall return."
LentPeriod of fasting and penitence traditionally observed by Christians in preparation for Eaaster. The length of the Lenten fast, during which observants eat sparingly, was established in the 4th century as 40 days. In the Eastern churches, where both Saturdays and Sundays are regarded as festival days, the period of Lent is the eight weeks before Easter; in the Western churches, where only Sunday is regarded as a festival, the 40-day period begins on Ash Wednesday and extends, with the omission of Sundays, to the day before Easter. The observance of fasting or other forms of self-denial during Lent varies within Protestant and Anglican churches. These bodies emphasize penitence. The Roman Catholic church has in recent years relaxed its laws on fasting. According to an apostolic constitution issued by Pope Paul VI in February 1966, fasting and abstinence during Lent are obligatory only on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday.
Maundy Thursdayor "Holy Thursday", the Thursday before Easter Sunday, observed by Christians in commemoration of Christ's Last Supper. The name Maundy is derived from mandatum (Lat., "commandment"), the first word of an anthem sung in the liturgical ceremony on that day. In Roman Catholic and many Protestant churches, the Eucharist is celebrated in an evening liturgy that includes Holy Communion. During the Roman Catholic liturgy, the ceremony of the washing of the f eet, or pedilavium, is performed: the celebrant washes the feet of 12 people to commemorate Christ's washing of his disciples' feet. In England a custom survives of giving alms (called "maundy pennies") to the poor; this act recalls an earlier practice in which the sovereign washed the feet of the poor on Maundy Thursday. In most European countries, the day is known as Holy Thursday.
Good FridayFriday immediately preceding Easter, celebrated by Christians as the anniversary of Christ's crucifixion. The name Good Friday is generally believed to be a corruption of God's Friday. Since the time of the early church, the day has been dedicated to penance, fasting, and prayer.
In the Roman Catholic church, the Good Friday liturgy is composed of three distinct parts: readings and prayers, including the reading of the Passion according to St. John; the veneration of the cross; and a general communion service (formerly called the Mass of the Presanctified), involving the reception of preconsecrated hosts by the priest and faithful.
From the 16th century on, the Good Friday service took place in the morning; in 1955 Pope Pius XII decreed that it be held in the afternoon or evening. As a result, such traditional afternoon devotions as the Tre Ore (Ital., "three hours"), consisting of sermons, meditations, and prayers centering on the three-hour agony of Christ on the cross, were almost entirely discontinued in the Roman Catholic church. In most of Europe, in South America, in Great Britain and many parts of the Commonwealth, and in several states of the U.S., Good Friday is a legal holiday.
An article from Funk & Wagnalls® New Encyclopedia. © 2005 World Almanac Education Group, A WRC Media Company
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Friday, March 20, 2009
Pagan Origins
Easter, a Christian festival, embodies many pre-Christian traditions. The origin of its name is unknown. Scholars, however, accepting the derivation proposed by the 8th-century English scholar St. Bede, believe it probably comes from Eastre, the Anglo-Saxon name of a Teutonic goddess of spring and fertility, to whom was dedicated a month corresponding to April. Her festival was celebrated on the day of the vernal equinox; traditions associated with the festival survive in the Easter rabbit, a symbol of fertility, and in colored easter eggs, originally painted with bright colors to represent the sunlight of spring, and used in Easter-egg rolling contests or given as gifts.
Such festivals, and the stories and legends that explain their origin, were common in ancient religions. A Greek legend tells of the return of Persephone, daughter of Demeter, goddess of the earth, from the underworld to the light of day; her return symbolized to the ancient Greeks the resurrection of life in the spring after the desolation of winter. Many ancient peoples shared similar legends. The Phrygians believed that their omnipotent deity went to sleep at the time of the winter solstice, and they performed ceremonies with music and dancing at the spring equinox to awaken him.
The Christian festival of Easter probably embodies a number of converging traditions; most scholars emphasize the original relation of Easter to the Jewish festival of Passover, or Pesach, from which is derived Pasch, another name for Easter. The early Christians, many of whom were of Jewish origin, were brought up in the Hebrew tradition and regarded Easter as a new feature of the Passover festival, a commemoration of the advent of the Messiah as foretold by the prophets.
An article from Funk & Wagnalls® New Encyclopedia. © 2005 World Almanac Education Group, A WRC Media Company
Such festivals, and the stories and legends that explain their origin, were common in ancient religions. A Greek legend tells of the return of Persephone, daughter of Demeter, goddess of the earth, from the underworld to the light of day; her return symbolized to the ancient Greeks the resurrection of life in the spring after the desolation of winter. Many ancient peoples shared similar legends. The Phrygians believed that their omnipotent deity went to sleep at the time of the winter solstice, and they performed ceremonies with music and dancing at the spring equinox to awaken him.
The Christian festival of Easter probably embodies a number of converging traditions; most scholars emphasize the original relation of Easter to the Jewish festival of Passover, or Pesach, from which is derived Pasch, another name for Easter. The early Christians, many of whom were of Jewish origin, were brought up in the Hebrew tradition and regarded Easter as a new feature of the Passover festival, a commemoration of the advent of the Messiah as foretold by the prophets.
An article from Funk & Wagnalls® New Encyclopedia. © 2005 World Almanac Education Group, A WRC Media Company
What is Easter
Easter is the annual festival commemorating the resurrection of Jesus Christ, and the principal feast of the Christian year. It is celebrated on a Sunday on varying dates between March 22 and April 25 and is therefore called a movable feast. The dates of several other ecclesiastical festivals, extending over a period between Septuagesima Sunday (the ninth Sunday before Easter) and the first Sunday of Advent, are fixed in relation to the date of Easter.
Connected with the observance of Easter are the 40-day penitential season of Lent, beginning on Ash Wednesday and concluding at midnight on Holy Saturday, the day before Easter Sunday; Holy Week, commencing on Palm Sunday, including Good Friday, the day of the crucifixion, and terminating with Holy Saturday; and the Octave of Easter, extending from Easter Sunday through the following Sunday. During the Octave of Easter in early Christian times, the newly baptized wore white garments, white being the liturgical color of Easter and signifying light, purity, and joy.
The Christian festival of Easter probably embodies a number of converging traditions; most scholars emphasize the original relation of Easter to the Jewish festival of Passover, or Pesach, from which is derived Pasch, another name for Easter. The early Christians, many of whom were of Jewish origin, were brought up in the Hebrew tradition and regarded Easter as a new feature of the Passover festival, a commemoration of the advent of the Messiah as foretold by the prophets.
An article from Funk & Wagnalls® New Encyclopedia. © 2005 World Almanac Education Group, A WRC Media Company
Connected with the observance of Easter are the 40-day penitential season of Lent, beginning on Ash Wednesday and concluding at midnight on Holy Saturday, the day before Easter Sunday; Holy Week, commencing on Palm Sunday, including Good Friday, the day of the crucifixion, and terminating with Holy Saturday; and the Octave of Easter, extending from Easter Sunday through the following Sunday. During the Octave of Easter in early Christian times, the newly baptized wore white garments, white being the liturgical color of Easter and signifying light, purity, and joy.
The Christian festival of Easter probably embodies a number of converging traditions; most scholars emphasize the original relation of Easter to the Jewish festival of Passover, or Pesach, from which is derived Pasch, another name for Easter. The early Christians, many of whom were of Jewish origin, were brought up in the Hebrew tradition and regarded Easter as a new feature of the Passover festival, a commemoration of the advent of the Messiah as foretold by the prophets.
An article from Funk & Wagnalls® New Encyclopedia. © 2005 World Almanac Education Group, A WRC Media Company
Sunday, February 22, 2009
Who Was St Patrick?
St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland, is one of Christianity's most widely known figures. But for all his celebrity, his life remains somewhat of a mystery. Many of the stories traditionally associated with St. Patrick, including the famous account of his banishing all the snakes from Ireland, are false, the products of hundreds of years of exaggerated storytelling.
Taken Prisoner By Irish Raiders
It is known that St. Patrick was born in Britain to wealthy parents near the end of the fourth century. He is believed to have died on March 17, around 460 A.D. Although his father was a Christian deacon, it has been suggested that he probably took on the role because of tax incentives and there is no evidence that Patrick came from a particularly religious family. At the age of sixteen, Patrick was taken prisoner by a group of Irish raiders who were attacking his family's estate. They transported him to Ireland where he spent six years in captivity. (There is some dispute over where this captivity took place. Although many believe he was taken to live in Mount Slemish in County Antrim, it is more likely that he was held in County Mayo near Killala.) During this time, he worked as a shepherd, outdoors and away from people. Lonely and afraid, he turned to his religion for solace, becoming a devout Christian. (It is also believed that Patrick first began to dream of converting the Irish people to Christianity during his captivity.)
Guided By Visions
After more than six years as a prisoner, Patrick escaped. According to his writing, a voice-which he believed to be God's-spoke to him in a dream, telling him it was time to leave Ireland.
To do so, Patrick walked nearly 200 miles from County Mayo, where it is believed he was held, to the Irish coast. After escaping to Britain, Patrick reported that he experienced a second revelation-an angel in a dream tells him to return to Ireland as a missionary. Soon after, Patrick began religious training, a course of study that lasted more than fifteen years. After his ordination as a priest, he was sent to Ireland with a dual mission-to minister to Christians already living in Ireland and to begin to convert the Irish. (Interestingly, this mission contradicts the widely held notion that Patrick introduced Christianity to Ireland.)
Bonfires and Crosses
Familiar with the Irish language and culture, Patrick chose to incorporate traditional ritual into his lessons of Christianity instead of attempting to eradicate native Irish beliefs. For instance, he used bonfires to celebrate Easter since the Irish were used to honoring their gods with fire. He also superimposed a sun, a powerful Irish symbol, onto the Christian cross to create what is now called a Celtic cross, so that veneration of the symbol would seem more natural to the Irish. (Although there were a small number of Christians on the island when Patrick arrived, most Irish practiced a nature-based pagan religion. The Irish culture centered around a rich tradition of oral legend and myth. When this is considered, it is no surprise that the story of Patrick's life became exaggerated over the centuries-spinning exciting tales to remember history has always been a part of the Irish way of life.)
Taken Prisoner By Irish Raiders
It is known that St. Patrick was born in Britain to wealthy parents near the end of the fourth century. He is believed to have died on March 17, around 460 A.D. Although his father was a Christian deacon, it has been suggested that he probably took on the role because of tax incentives and there is no evidence that Patrick came from a particularly religious family. At the age of sixteen, Patrick was taken prisoner by a group of Irish raiders who were attacking his family's estate. They transported him to Ireland where he spent six years in captivity. (There is some dispute over where this captivity took place. Although many believe he was taken to live in Mount Slemish in County Antrim, it is more likely that he was held in County Mayo near Killala.) During this time, he worked as a shepherd, outdoors and away from people. Lonely and afraid, he turned to his religion for solace, becoming a devout Christian. (It is also believed that Patrick first began to dream of converting the Irish people to Christianity during his captivity.)
Guided By Visions
After more than six years as a prisoner, Patrick escaped. According to his writing, a voice-which he believed to be God's-spoke to him in a dream, telling him it was time to leave Ireland.
To do so, Patrick walked nearly 200 miles from County Mayo, where it is believed he was held, to the Irish coast. After escaping to Britain, Patrick reported that he experienced a second revelation-an angel in a dream tells him to return to Ireland as a missionary. Soon after, Patrick began religious training, a course of study that lasted more than fifteen years. After his ordination as a priest, he was sent to Ireland with a dual mission-to minister to Christians already living in Ireland and to begin to convert the Irish. (Interestingly, this mission contradicts the widely held notion that Patrick introduced Christianity to Ireland.)
Bonfires and Crosses
Familiar with the Irish language and culture, Patrick chose to incorporate traditional ritual into his lessons of Christianity instead of attempting to eradicate native Irish beliefs. For instance, he used bonfires to celebrate Easter since the Irish were used to honoring their gods with fire. He also superimposed a sun, a powerful Irish symbol, onto the Christian cross to create what is now called a Celtic cross, so that veneration of the symbol would seem more natural to the Irish. (Although there were a small number of Christians on the island when Patrick arrived, most Irish practiced a nature-based pagan religion. The Irish culture centered around a rich tradition of oral legend and myth. When this is considered, it is no surprise that the story of Patrick's life became exaggerated over the centuries-spinning exciting tales to remember history has always been a part of the Irish way of life.)
St Patrick's Day Facts
The Celebration
About 41.5 billion pounds and 2.6 billion pounds of U.S. beef and cabbage, respectively, were sold in 2007. Corned beef and cabbage is a traditional St. Patrick's Day dish. The corned beef celebrants eat on St. Patrick's Day may very well have originated in Texas, which produced 6.8 billion pounds worth of beef, while the cabbage most likely came from California, which produced 581 million pounds worth, or New York (580 million pounds).
Irish Soda Bread gets its name and distinctive character from the use of baking soda instead of yeast as the leavening agent.
Lime-green chrysanthemums are often requested for St. Patrick's Day parades and celebrations.
The Parade
The first St. Patrick's Day parade took place in the United States. Irish soldiers serving in the English military marched through New York City on March 17, 1762.
The New York City St. Patrick's Day parade marches up 5th Avenue from 44th street to 86th street. In 2009 the parade will be on Tuesday, March 17, and will begin at 11 a.m.
Over 100 St. Patrick's Day parades take place around the United States, but the parades in New York City and Boston are the largest.
The New York St. Patrick's Day parade does not allow automobiles or floats, but over 150,000 marchers participate in the parade.
Places to Spend the Day
There are 4 places in the United States named Shamrock, the floral emblem of Ireland. Mount Gay-Shamrock, W.Va., and Shamrock, TX, were the most populous, with 2,623 and 1,841 residents, respectively. Shamrock Lakes, Ind., had 162 residents and Shamrock, OK, 125. (Statistic for Mount Gay-Shamrock is from Census 2000; the other statistics in the paragraph are 2007 estimates.)
There are 9 places in the United States that share the name of Ireland's capital, Dublin. Since Census 2000, Dublin, CA, has surpassed Dublin, OH, as the most populous of these places (39,328 compared with 34,964, respectively, as of July 1, 2005).
If you are still not into the spirit of St. Paddy's Day after stopping by one of the places named "Shamrock" or "Dublin", then you might consider paying a visit to Emerald Isle, NC, with 3,686 residents
.
Population Distribution of Irish Americans
There are 36.5 million U.S. residents who claim Irish ancestry. This number is almost nine times the population of Ireland itself (more than 4 million). Irish is the nation's second most frequently reported ancestry, trailing only those of German ancestry.
The nation as a whole claims 12% of residents as having Irish ancestry. In Massachusetts this number doubles to 24 percent!
In Middlesex County, Mass., 348,978 residents are of Irish ancestry. Among the 54 counties where Irish is the largest observed ancestry group, Middlesex had the highest population of Irish-Americans, with Norfolk County, Mass., second, with 203,285.
There are three states in which Irish is the leading ancestry group: Delaware, Massachusetts and New Hampshire. Irish is among the top five ancestries in every state but two (Hawaii and New Mexico).
There are 54 counties where Irish is the largest observed ancestry group. Forty-four of these counties are in the Northeast, with 14 in New York, 11 in Massachusetts and five in New Jersey.
A total of 4.8 million immigrants from Ireland have been admitted to the U.S. for lawful permanent residence since fiscal year 1820, the earliest year for which official immigration records exist. By fiscal year 1870, about half of these immigrants were admitted for lawful permanent residence. Only Germany, Italy, the United Kingdom and Mexico have had more immigrants admitted for permanent residence to the United States than Ireland.
Data courtesy of the U.S. Census Bureau
About 41.5 billion pounds and 2.6 billion pounds of U.S. beef and cabbage, respectively, were sold in 2007. Corned beef and cabbage is a traditional St. Patrick's Day dish. The corned beef celebrants eat on St. Patrick's Day may very well have originated in Texas, which produced 6.8 billion pounds worth of beef, while the cabbage most likely came from California, which produced 581 million pounds worth, or New York (580 million pounds).
Irish Soda Bread gets its name and distinctive character from the use of baking soda instead of yeast as the leavening agent.
Lime-green chrysanthemums are often requested for St. Patrick's Day parades and celebrations.
The Parade
The first St. Patrick's Day parade took place in the United States. Irish soldiers serving in the English military marched through New York City on March 17, 1762.
The New York City St. Patrick's Day parade marches up 5th Avenue from 44th street to 86th street. In 2009 the parade will be on Tuesday, March 17, and will begin at 11 a.m.
Over 100 St. Patrick's Day parades take place around the United States, but the parades in New York City and Boston are the largest.
The New York St. Patrick's Day parade does not allow automobiles or floats, but over 150,000 marchers participate in the parade.
Places to Spend the Day
There are 4 places in the United States named Shamrock, the floral emblem of Ireland. Mount Gay-Shamrock, W.Va., and Shamrock, TX, were the most populous, with 2,623 and 1,841 residents, respectively. Shamrock Lakes, Ind., had 162 residents and Shamrock, OK, 125. (Statistic for Mount Gay-Shamrock is from Census 2000; the other statistics in the paragraph are 2007 estimates.)
There are 9 places in the United States that share the name of Ireland's capital, Dublin. Since Census 2000, Dublin, CA, has surpassed Dublin, OH, as the most populous of these places (39,328 compared with 34,964, respectively, as of July 1, 2005).
If you are still not into the spirit of St. Paddy's Day after stopping by one of the places named "Shamrock" or "Dublin", then you might consider paying a visit to Emerald Isle, NC, with 3,686 residents
.
Population Distribution of Irish Americans
There are 36.5 million U.S. residents who claim Irish ancestry. This number is almost nine times the population of Ireland itself (more than 4 million). Irish is the nation's second most frequently reported ancestry, trailing only those of German ancestry.
The nation as a whole claims 12% of residents as having Irish ancestry. In Massachusetts this number doubles to 24 percent!
In Middlesex County, Mass., 348,978 residents are of Irish ancestry. Among the 54 counties where Irish is the largest observed ancestry group, Middlesex had the highest population of Irish-Americans, with Norfolk County, Mass., second, with 203,285.
There are three states in which Irish is the leading ancestry group: Delaware, Massachusetts and New Hampshire. Irish is among the top five ancestries in every state but two (Hawaii and New Mexico).
There are 54 counties where Irish is the largest observed ancestry group. Forty-four of these counties are in the Northeast, with 14 in New York, 11 in Massachusetts and five in New Jersey.
A total of 4.8 million immigrants from Ireland have been admitted to the U.S. for lawful permanent residence since fiscal year 1820, the earliest year for which official immigration records exist. By fiscal year 1870, about half of these immigrants were admitted for lawful permanent residence. Only Germany, Italy, the United Kingdom and Mexico have had more immigrants admitted for permanent residence to the United States than Ireland.
Data courtesy of the U.S. Census Bureau
History of St Patrick's Day
The First Parade
St. Patrick's Day is celebrated on March 17, his religious feast day and the anniversary of his death in the fifth century. The Irish have observed this day as a religious holiday for over a thousand years.
On St. Patrick's Day, which falls during the Christian season of Lent, Irish families would traditionally attend church in the morning and celebrate in the afternoon. Lenten prohibitions against the consumption of meat were waived and people would dance, drink, and feast—on the traditional meal of Irish bacon and cabbage.
The first St. Patrick's Day parade took place not in Ireland, but in the United States. Irish soldiers serving in the English military marched through New York City on March 17, 1762. Along with their music, the parade helped the soldiers to reconnect with their Irish roots, as well as fellow Irishmen serving in the English army.
Over the next thirty-five years, Irish patriotism among American immigrants flourished, prompting the rise of so-called "Irish Aid" societies, like the Friendly Sons of Saint Patrick and the Hibernian Society. Each group would hold annual parades featuring bagpipes (which actually first became popular in the Scottish and British armies) and drums.
No Irish Need Apply
Up until the mid-nineteenth century, most Irish immigrants in America were members of the Protestant middle class. When the Great Potato Famine hit Ireland in 1845, close to a million poor, uneducated, Catholic Irish began to pour into America to escape starvation. Despised for their religious beliefs and funny accents by the American Protestant majority, the immigrants had trouble finding even menial jobs. When Irish Americans in the country's cities took to the streets on St. Patrick's Day to celebrate their heritage, newspapers portrayed them in cartoons as drunk, violent monkeys.
However, the Irish soon began to realize that their great numbers endowed them with a political power that had yet to be exploited. They started to organize, and their voting block, known as the "green machine," became an important swing vote for political hopefuls. Suddenly, annual St. Patrick's Day parades became a show of strength for Irish Americans, as well as a must-attend event for a slew of political candidates. In 1948, President Truman attended New York City 's St. Patrick's Day parade, a proud moment for the many Irish whose ancestors had to fight stereotypes and racial prejudice to find acceptance in America.
Wearing of the Green Goes Global
Today, St. Patrick's Day is celebrated by people of all backgrounds in the United States, Canada, and Australia. Although North America is home to the largest productions, St. Patrick's Day has been celebrated in other locations far from Ireland, including Japan, Singapore, and Russia.
In modern-day Ireland, St. Patrick's Day has traditionally been a religious occasion. In fact, up until the 1970s, Irish laws mandated that pubs be closed on March 17. Beginning in 1995, however, the Irish government began a national campaign to use St. Patrick's Day as an opportunity to drive tourism and showcase Ireland to the rest of the world. Last year, close to one million people took part in Ireland 's St. Patrick's Festival in Dublin, a multi-day celebration featuring parades, concerts, outdoor theater productions, and fireworks shows.
The Chicago River
Chicago is also famous for a somewhat peculiar annual event: dyeing the Chicago River green. The tradition started in 1962, when city pollution-control workers used dyes to trace illegal sewage discharges and realized that the green dye might provide a unique way to celebrate the holiday. That year, they released 100 pounds of green vegetable dye into the river—enough to keep it green for a week!
Today, in order to minimize environmental damage, only forty pounds of dye are used, making the river green for only several hours. Although Chicago historians claim their city 's idea for a river of green was original, some Savannah natives believe the idea originated in their town.
They point out that 1961, Savannah mayor Tom Woolley had plans for a green river, but due to rough water on March 17, the experiment didn 't work and Savannah never attempted to dye its river again.
Coutesy of History.com
St. Patrick's Day is celebrated on March 17, his religious feast day and the anniversary of his death in the fifth century. The Irish have observed this day as a religious holiday for over a thousand years.
On St. Patrick's Day, which falls during the Christian season of Lent, Irish families would traditionally attend church in the morning and celebrate in the afternoon. Lenten prohibitions against the consumption of meat were waived and people would dance, drink, and feast—on the traditional meal of Irish bacon and cabbage.
The first St. Patrick's Day parade took place not in Ireland, but in the United States. Irish soldiers serving in the English military marched through New York City on March 17, 1762. Along with their music, the parade helped the soldiers to reconnect with their Irish roots, as well as fellow Irishmen serving in the English army.
Over the next thirty-five years, Irish patriotism among American immigrants flourished, prompting the rise of so-called "Irish Aid" societies, like the Friendly Sons of Saint Patrick and the Hibernian Society. Each group would hold annual parades featuring bagpipes (which actually first became popular in the Scottish and British armies) and drums.
No Irish Need Apply
Up until the mid-nineteenth century, most Irish immigrants in America were members of the Protestant middle class. When the Great Potato Famine hit Ireland in 1845, close to a million poor, uneducated, Catholic Irish began to pour into America to escape starvation. Despised for their religious beliefs and funny accents by the American Protestant majority, the immigrants had trouble finding even menial jobs. When Irish Americans in the country's cities took to the streets on St. Patrick's Day to celebrate their heritage, newspapers portrayed them in cartoons as drunk, violent monkeys.
However, the Irish soon began to realize that their great numbers endowed them with a political power that had yet to be exploited. They started to organize, and their voting block, known as the "green machine," became an important swing vote for political hopefuls. Suddenly, annual St. Patrick's Day parades became a show of strength for Irish Americans, as well as a must-attend event for a slew of political candidates. In 1948, President Truman attended New York City 's St. Patrick's Day parade, a proud moment for the many Irish whose ancestors had to fight stereotypes and racial prejudice to find acceptance in America.
Wearing of the Green Goes Global
Today, St. Patrick's Day is celebrated by people of all backgrounds in the United States, Canada, and Australia. Although North America is home to the largest productions, St. Patrick's Day has been celebrated in other locations far from Ireland, including Japan, Singapore, and Russia.
In modern-day Ireland, St. Patrick's Day has traditionally been a religious occasion. In fact, up until the 1970s, Irish laws mandated that pubs be closed on March 17. Beginning in 1995, however, the Irish government began a national campaign to use St. Patrick's Day as an opportunity to drive tourism and showcase Ireland to the rest of the world. Last year, close to one million people took part in Ireland 's St. Patrick's Festival in Dublin, a multi-day celebration featuring parades, concerts, outdoor theater productions, and fireworks shows.
The Chicago River
Chicago is also famous for a somewhat peculiar annual event: dyeing the Chicago River green. The tradition started in 1962, when city pollution-control workers used dyes to trace illegal sewage discharges and realized that the green dye might provide a unique way to celebrate the holiday. That year, they released 100 pounds of green vegetable dye into the river—enough to keep it green for a week!
Today, in order to minimize environmental damage, only forty pounds of dye are used, making the river green for only several hours. Although Chicago historians claim their city 's idea for a river of green was original, some Savannah natives believe the idea originated in their town.
They point out that 1961, Savannah mayor Tom Woolley had plans for a green river, but due to rough water on March 17, the experiment didn 't work and Savannah never attempted to dye its river again.
Coutesy of History.com
Sunday, January 18, 2009
Cheap, But Meaningful Things to Do on Valentines
So everyone struggles with Valentine’s Day, well almost everyone. It’s a very overly commercial holiday, and the best way to get away from the hype is to get the bigger message that Valentine’s is supposed to mean.
That is the love for your partner.. There are many ways you can show you love your partner other then saying I love you. Here are a few low-cost suggestions and high meaning tips.
Kiss Differently
Try a new type of kiss, no—not the chocolate. Try kissing differently. One in particular, the upside-down kiss. Get your partner to lie down on their back with their head at your knees, your behind them kneeling, then bend down and kiss them upside down. Yep, it feels totally different, and if they don’t know you are going to do that, then they will really remember that. Do whatever you like with that kiss :)
Write something
Write a poem or words from the heart. This is so much better then words written in a card. Because you wrote them. You are allowed to read others poetry for inspiration, most people usually need something to spark their mind and get into the mindset for creating a perfect piece of love in the form of words. Or make it into your own card.
Cook for your Partner
Do you know the favorite thing your partner loves to eat? If not, find out. Then learn how to cook it, make it from scratch and even if you don’t do it well, learning how to do something for your partner tells them how much you love them. Doing this is absolutely a perfect way to show your a good friend as well.
I personally think, that almost anything that doensn’t cost money is the best present to your partner. It required thought, and money can buy anything but love. So it’s important to express your love without money.
By Lisa Hallman
That is the love for your partner.. There are many ways you can show you love your partner other then saying I love you. Here are a few low-cost suggestions and high meaning tips.
Kiss Differently
Try a new type of kiss, no—not the chocolate. Try kissing differently. One in particular, the upside-down kiss. Get your partner to lie down on their back with their head at your knees, your behind them kneeling, then bend down and kiss them upside down. Yep, it feels totally different, and if they don’t know you are going to do that, then they will really remember that. Do whatever you like with that kiss :)
Write something
Write a poem or words from the heart. This is so much better then words written in a card. Because you wrote them. You are allowed to read others poetry for inspiration, most people usually need something to spark their mind and get into the mindset for creating a perfect piece of love in the form of words. Or make it into your own card.
Cook for your Partner
Do you know the favorite thing your partner loves to eat? If not, find out. Then learn how to cook it, make it from scratch and even if you don’t do it well, learning how to do something for your partner tells them how much you love them. Doing this is absolutely a perfect way to show your a good friend as well.
I personally think, that almost anything that doensn’t cost money is the best present to your partner. It required thought, and money can buy anything but love. So it’s important to express your love without money.
By Lisa Hallman
Romantic Ideas and Things to Do for Valentine's Day
Valentine's Day - a holiday just for people in love - is fast approaching! Now, if you are like I used to be, you are thinking "Valentine's Day is a Hallmark Holiday." Well, to some extent I still agree with that, but I also think that Valentine's Day is a great chance to re-focus our lives on the one we love.
Bwedd.com W edding planning is more than likely taking up a lot of your time, and if it's not, then it is probably taking up a lot of your thoughts. Not to mention all of the other busy-ness that takes up our lives and time. Valentine's Day is a great excuse to put everything else aside for an evening or a day to show the love that we have professed, to forget whose mother said what, and to take a break from it all.
That is why I am dedicating this issue of the Cost- Effective Bride to celebrating Valentine's Day. You may wonder how this issue is going to save you money on your wedding, but being a cost-effective bride isn't always about saving money. Sometimes, it is about saving time, and often it is about replenishing energy.
So, what are you planning for Valentine's Day? A dinner out? A small gift? Flowers? This year, why not make it a Valentine's Day to remember? How, you ask? Here are some ideas:
1. Skip the dinner out - restaurants are busy and expensive on Valentine's Day - order or make your fiance's favorite meal and eat by candlelight in your apartment or house (even if it is McDonald's or Burger King, this can be nice).
2. Make a scavenger hunt for your fiance. Have each clue lead eventually to a small gift or even dessert.
3. Type up 10-15 things you love about your fiance. Write a short sentences about each one. Print them out and cut them into sections for each sentence. Take each sentence and tape or place them throughout your house or apartment. Watch as your fiance scrambles around trying to find each one when he or she gets there.
4. This one could take a bit of prep time, so get going! On colored construction paper cut out as many hearts as there are for each day from Valentine's Day until your wedding. On each heart, write something you love about your fiance, favorite memories, quotes from your favorite songs or movies, and quotes about love in general. Buy a photo album (make sure it has enough pages for each of your hearts) and label each page for the days from Valentine's Day until your wedding. If you have enough pages, every now and then place a picture of the two of you in the photo album. Put all of the hearts in a box or tin and give the album and box to your fiance for Valentine's Day. Tell him or her to pick a heart at random each morning or night and to place it in that day's page in the photo album. This is especially great if you do not get to see a lot of each other. (My fiance did this for me, and it became something I absolutely looked forward to every day!)
5. Write a poem or letter for your fiance about all of the things you love and appreciate about them or the things you are looking forward to in your marriage together. Recite or give it to your fiance to read.
6. Have a picnic in your living room. Spread a blanket. Buy some cheap wine, cheese and bread. Light some candles and have fun discussing your day and your future together.
7. Set goals. Believe it or not, this can be really romantic. My husband and I do this at least once a year and we always learn something new about each other. We share the things we want to accomplish within the coming year and other things that we just dream about. This really helps us to prioritize our lives and our marriage. We tend to do this on our anniversary, but I think that Valentine's Day would be another great time to do this. Be sure to write them down so that you can revisit them from time to time and have a record of the things you accomplished and those goals that simply changed. It will be fun in later years to look back and see the direction your life has gone in.
Whatever you decide to do, make a few rules for the evening or day, like "No TV" or "No wedding talk". Even if you just play a game together or spend the evening talking, focus on your love for each other and laughing together. Do the things that you know your fiance likes to do and make it special for him or her. I guarantee you that it will be special for you as well.
Bwedd.com(Note: I realize that most of my readers are women. And, I realize that what we, as women, really want, is for our fiance to do all of these things for us. Well, take the pressure of him for one night and show him how much you care about him. I think that he will like it so much that he may just return the favor on some other day! Give it a try, I think you will be glad that you did.)
I hope that this Valentine's Day will be one that you remember for a long time to come and that it will give you the chance to re-focus your relationship on one another and not just on your wedding. Have fun! And, Happy Valentine's Day!
Sincerely,
Kelly Kons
Bwedd.com W edding planning is more than likely taking up a lot of your time, and if it's not, then it is probably taking up a lot of your thoughts. Not to mention all of the other busy-ness that takes up our lives and time. Valentine's Day is a great excuse to put everything else aside for an evening or a day to show the love that we have professed, to forget whose mother said what, and to take a break from it all.
That is why I am dedicating this issue of the Cost- Effective Bride to celebrating Valentine's Day. You may wonder how this issue is going to save you money on your wedding, but being a cost-effective bride isn't always about saving money. Sometimes, it is about saving time, and often it is about replenishing energy.
So, what are you planning for Valentine's Day? A dinner out? A small gift? Flowers? This year, why not make it a Valentine's Day to remember? How, you ask? Here are some ideas:
1. Skip the dinner out - restaurants are busy and expensive on Valentine's Day - order or make your fiance's favorite meal and eat by candlelight in your apartment or house (even if it is McDonald's or Burger King, this can be nice).
2. Make a scavenger hunt for your fiance. Have each clue lead eventually to a small gift or even dessert.
3. Type up 10-15 things you love about your fiance. Write a short sentences about each one. Print them out and cut them into sections for each sentence. Take each sentence and tape or place them throughout your house or apartment. Watch as your fiance scrambles around trying to find each one when he or she gets there.
4. This one could take a bit of prep time, so get going! On colored construction paper cut out as many hearts as there are for each day from Valentine's Day until your wedding. On each heart, write something you love about your fiance, favorite memories, quotes from your favorite songs or movies, and quotes about love in general. Buy a photo album (make sure it has enough pages for each of your hearts) and label each page for the days from Valentine's Day until your wedding. If you have enough pages, every now and then place a picture of the two of you in the photo album. Put all of the hearts in a box or tin and give the album and box to your fiance for Valentine's Day. Tell him or her to pick a heart at random each morning or night and to place it in that day's page in the photo album. This is especially great if you do not get to see a lot of each other. (My fiance did this for me, and it became something I absolutely looked forward to every day!)
5. Write a poem or letter for your fiance about all of the things you love and appreciate about them or the things you are looking forward to in your marriage together. Recite or give it to your fiance to read.
6. Have a picnic in your living room. Spread a blanket. Buy some cheap wine, cheese and bread. Light some candles and have fun discussing your day and your future together.
7. Set goals. Believe it or not, this can be really romantic. My husband and I do this at least once a year and we always learn something new about each other. We share the things we want to accomplish within the coming year and other things that we just dream about. This really helps us to prioritize our lives and our marriage. We tend to do this on our anniversary, but I think that Valentine's Day would be another great time to do this. Be sure to write them down so that you can revisit them from time to time and have a record of the things you accomplished and those goals that simply changed. It will be fun in later years to look back and see the direction your life has gone in.
Whatever you decide to do, make a few rules for the evening or day, like "No TV" or "No wedding talk". Even if you just play a game together or spend the evening talking, focus on your love for each other and laughing together. Do the things that you know your fiance likes to do and make it special for him or her. I guarantee you that it will be special for you as well.
Bwedd.com(Note: I realize that most of my readers are women. And, I realize that what we, as women, really want, is for our fiance to do all of these things for us. Well, take the pressure of him for one night and show him how much you care about him. I think that he will like it so much that he may just return the favor on some other day! Give it a try, I think you will be glad that you did.)
I hope that this Valentine's Day will be one that you remember for a long time to come and that it will give you the chance to re-focus your relationship on one another and not just on your wedding. Have fun! And, Happy Valentine's Day!
Sincerely,
Kelly Kons
Top 10 Things to do on Valentine's Day
Number 10
Reenact your first date
One of the most romantic things you can do is get nostalgic with your girlfriend. Women go gaga for guys who remember the details of the past, such as the restaurant you went to on your first date, what you ate and you did afterward. It will be like celebrating your anniversary and you can combine gifts with cards that mention how happy you are that you met her.
Number 9
Partake in a physical activity
No, not that kind of physical activity; I mean something that will get your heartbeat going, like ice skating or going for a hike in the woods and bringing wine to drink on the way. Such activities are perfect to boost an old and predictable relationship, and nothing will kick start a new relationship better than such a thrill ride. If you take her out, take her to a pottery and painting shop where you can actually talk, be creative and share your thoughts. If you want to invite her over, make sure you cook something together so you're both engaged in the activity.
Number 8
Go for the massage
Either you give her a full-body massage or better yet, reserve a double massage for him and her. You should both take some time off and enjoy some relaxation together. It is lover's day after all, not just girlfriend's day. Any kind of spa getaway is perfect for Valentine's Day.
Number 7
Make a path of rose petals
Girls flip over temptation, flirting and teasing, so buy a lot of rose petals or even potpourri, and leave a trail from the entrance of the house to your bedroom. Leave her a little gift on the bed and she'll feel like it's a romantic treasure hunt, and the rewards will be spectacular.
Number 6
Rent a hotel room & pretend you're tourists
There is something exciting about not having to clean up the bedroom afterward, so rent a hotel room, grab some bubbly, and use all your senses as you pretend to be out-of-town tourists on a love journey.
As the champagne is chilling, go in for the kill...
Number 5
Don't forget to do your homework
Nothing spices up a mundane relationship as much as staying at home, renting an erotic movie and "getting to know one another" better all over again. This is obviously not suitable for a first date if you catch my drift, but perfect for couples who have been together for some time.
Number 4
Have sex in public
Although this may not be for everybody -- and all climates -- some couples will get a thrill of a lifetime if they perform the act on risky grounds. It definitely serves as a bonding period and is sure to serve as a great inside joke between the two of you for years to come.
Number 3
Get away
If your work, time and budget allow it, plan a two or three-day vacation getaway, specifically at a ski or spa resort. This is guaranteed wild action, and may even take place outdoors.
Number 2
Dress up
Dress up as if you are going to the opera, and go to a restaurant or just have dinner at home. Girls love an excuse to get all dolled up and the fact that you'll be getting dressed up will make anything you decide to do seem like a special occasion. This will be telling her you think she is special, and she'll love it.
Number 1
Pop the question
If you think that the time is right and you have that look in your eyes... if you are sick of the single life, and if you are... well, when the I's are dotted and the T's are crossed, then maybe, just maybe, there is no better time to propose to her.
a time to shine
Hopefully this article gave you some fresh ideas for what to do with your girlfriend on Valentine's Day. You can combine some of them to make it an all-day event and you can modify as you see fit. Remember: Use the special occasion to make her feel special, and she'll be on cloud nine. Have fun and happy Valentine's Day.
By Shawn Croft
Reenact your first date
One of the most romantic things you can do is get nostalgic with your girlfriend. Women go gaga for guys who remember the details of the past, such as the restaurant you went to on your first date, what you ate and you did afterward. It will be like celebrating your anniversary and you can combine gifts with cards that mention how happy you are that you met her.
Number 9
Partake in a physical activity
No, not that kind of physical activity; I mean something that will get your heartbeat going, like ice skating or going for a hike in the woods and bringing wine to drink on the way. Such activities are perfect to boost an old and predictable relationship, and nothing will kick start a new relationship better than such a thrill ride. If you take her out, take her to a pottery and painting shop where you can actually talk, be creative and share your thoughts. If you want to invite her over, make sure you cook something together so you're both engaged in the activity.
Number 8
Go for the massage
Either you give her a full-body massage or better yet, reserve a double massage for him and her. You should both take some time off and enjoy some relaxation together. It is lover's day after all, not just girlfriend's day. Any kind of spa getaway is perfect for Valentine's Day.
Number 7
Make a path of rose petals
Girls flip over temptation, flirting and teasing, so buy a lot of rose petals or even potpourri, and leave a trail from the entrance of the house to your bedroom. Leave her a little gift on the bed and she'll feel like it's a romantic treasure hunt, and the rewards will be spectacular.
Number 6
Rent a hotel room & pretend you're tourists
There is something exciting about not having to clean up the bedroom afterward, so rent a hotel room, grab some bubbly, and use all your senses as you pretend to be out-of-town tourists on a love journey.
As the champagne is chilling, go in for the kill...
Number 5
Don't forget to do your homework
Nothing spices up a mundane relationship as much as staying at home, renting an erotic movie and "getting to know one another" better all over again. This is obviously not suitable for a first date if you catch my drift, but perfect for couples who have been together for some time.
Number 4
Have sex in public
Although this may not be for everybody -- and all climates -- some couples will get a thrill of a lifetime if they perform the act on risky grounds. It definitely serves as a bonding period and is sure to serve as a great inside joke between the two of you for years to come.
Number 3
Get away
If your work, time and budget allow it, plan a two or three-day vacation getaway, specifically at a ski or spa resort. This is guaranteed wild action, and may even take place outdoors.
Number 2
Dress up
Dress up as if you are going to the opera, and go to a restaurant or just have dinner at home. Girls love an excuse to get all dolled up and the fact that you'll be getting dressed up will make anything you decide to do seem like a special occasion. This will be telling her you think she is special, and she'll love it.
Number 1
Pop the question
If you think that the time is right and you have that look in your eyes... if you are sick of the single life, and if you are... well, when the I's are dotted and the T's are crossed, then maybe, just maybe, there is no better time to propose to her.
a time to shine
Hopefully this article gave you some fresh ideas for what to do with your girlfriend on Valentine's Day. You can combine some of them to make it an all-day event and you can modify as you see fit. Remember: Use the special occasion to make her feel special, and she'll be on cloud nine. Have fun and happy Valentine's Day.
By Shawn Croft
10 (Last-Minute) Romantic Things To Do On Valentine's Day Together
The list of unique romantic things you can do as a couple on Valentine's Day is endless.
Perhaps you'll find something fun (or practical) from my own list of creative ideas for couples on Valentine's Day.
If not, then rest assured... you are guaranteed to find something fun in the Top 10 lists at the end of this article.
Enjoy!
1. Make an appointment for the two of you to get your picture professionally taken together.
2. See what his Horoscope is for this day & do something silly around that "theme".
3. Spice up your relationship... here are 5 ways to get creative with digital photos.
4. Attach a $50 bill to a lingerie store ad or catalog, along with a note, "You choose."
5. Give her a gift certificate for any of the following: professional massage, day at a spa, manicure, pedicure, facial from a local spa or nail salon.
6. Spend a couple hours together writing romantic ideas on separate slips of paper. After you get a total of 100 romantic ideas on 100 pieces of paper, then fill a jar with them. Every Sunday, from this day on, alternate who picks one and has to implement it by the following Sunday -- at which point the other partner will pick a new romantic idea and have a week to follow through with it.
7. Make a list of the top 10 reasons you love him/her.
8. Purchase an "I Love You" helium balloon from a local party store, then drive to his work and attach the balloon to the handle of his car door or windshield wiper.
9. Have some friends over and play some fun couples party games.
10. Spend the day just photographing each other... outdoors (at a local park, walking downtown, at the beach, on the playground), as well as indoors. Make sure you get someone to take some photos of the two of you together. Take some candids, and some posed. Then frame one!
Written by Lynnette
Perhaps you'll find something fun (or practical) from my own list of creative ideas for couples on Valentine's Day.
If not, then rest assured... you are guaranteed to find something fun in the Top 10 lists at the end of this article.
Enjoy!
1. Make an appointment for the two of you to get your picture professionally taken together.
2. See what his Horoscope is for this day & do something silly around that "theme".
3. Spice up your relationship... here are 5 ways to get creative with digital photos.
4. Attach a $50 bill to a lingerie store ad or catalog, along with a note, "You choose."
5. Give her a gift certificate for any of the following: professional massage, day at a spa, manicure, pedicure, facial from a local spa or nail salon.
6. Spend a couple hours together writing romantic ideas on separate slips of paper. After you get a total of 100 romantic ideas on 100 pieces of paper, then fill a jar with them. Every Sunday, from this day on, alternate who picks one and has to implement it by the following Sunday -- at which point the other partner will pick a new romantic idea and have a week to follow through with it.
7. Make a list of the top 10 reasons you love him/her.
8. Purchase an "I Love You" helium balloon from a local party store, then drive to his work and attach the balloon to the handle of his car door or windshield wiper.
9. Have some friends over and play some fun couples party games.
10. Spend the day just photographing each other... outdoors (at a local park, walking downtown, at the beach, on the playground), as well as indoors. Make sure you get someone to take some photos of the two of you together. Take some candids, and some posed. Then frame one!
Written by Lynnette
Friday, January 16, 2009
Romantic Movies to Watch by Yourself or with Someone
Valentine's Day is filled with love and joy but sometimes an excellent romantic movie will do the day justice. These love struck movies will tear at your heart strings and fill the room with thoughts of
love.
Breakfast At Tiffany's: This classic movie, based on the novel of Truman Capote, a young jetsetter woman, Audrey Hepburn, living in New York City meet a young man, George Peppard, aspiring to be a writer. Breakfast At Tiffany's is a romantic yet a little comedic movie. If you're with your Valentine or alone, definitely pick up this classic and some popcorn.
Titanic: This epic adventure takes place on the beautiful ship of dreams, The Titanic. A poor young man, Jack, saves a rich girl, Rose, from committing suicide. From that point on the pair fall in love and never leave each other. The winner of 11 Oscars, Titanic is a movie not to be missed.
Sixteen Candles: On the day of her sixteenth birthday, Samantha, Molly, suffers from embarrassment and the fact that her family forgot all about her birthday because of her sisters wedding. Sam's crush Jake Ryan begins to show interest in her and she is then the happiest girl in the world. This 80's movie is one of the greatest teen love stories of our time. With growing up, this movie shows a lot about our friends and us.
Never Been Kissed: Josie Geller, a journalist, enrolls into her old high school to cover a story that can make or break her career. Through the process, she uncovers old wounds and falls in love with her teacher, who does not know that she is undercover. Josie is faced with big conflicts, which turns into a great story. Never Been Kissed will make you smile from ear to ear with laughter for miles.
The Notebook: An old man reading a story to an old woman in a nursing home is how the movie begins. He reads to her the love story of Noah Calhoun and Allie Hamilton. The two meet at a carnival, but Allie's parents disapprove of Noah. The two young lovers are torn apart, but find each other in the end. The Notebook is a sappy love story that brings tears to your eyes. It is a perfect movie for Valentine's Day.
love.
Breakfast At Tiffany's: This classic movie, based on the novel of Truman Capote, a young jetsetter woman, Audrey Hepburn, living in New York City meet a young man, George Peppard, aspiring to be a writer. Breakfast At Tiffany's is a romantic yet a little comedic movie. If you're with your Valentine or alone, definitely pick up this classic and some popcorn.
Titanic: This epic adventure takes place on the beautiful ship of dreams, The Titanic. A poor young man, Jack, saves a rich girl, Rose, from committing suicide. From that point on the pair fall in love and never leave each other. The winner of 11 Oscars, Titanic is a movie not to be missed.
Sixteen Candles: On the day of her sixteenth birthday, Samantha, Molly, suffers from embarrassment and the fact that her family forgot all about her birthday because of her sisters wedding. Sam's crush Jake Ryan begins to show interest in her and she is then the happiest girl in the world. This 80's movie is one of the greatest teen love stories of our time. With growing up, this movie shows a lot about our friends and us.
Never Been Kissed: Josie Geller, a journalist, enrolls into her old high school to cover a story that can make or break her career. Through the process, she uncovers old wounds and falls in love with her teacher, who does not know that she is undercover. Josie is faced with big conflicts, which turns into a great story. Never Been Kissed will make you smile from ear to ear with laughter for miles.
The Notebook: An old man reading a story to an old woman in a nursing home is how the movie begins. He reads to her the love story of Noah Calhoun and Allie Hamilton. The two meet at a carnival, but Allie's parents disapprove of Noah. The two young lovers are torn apart, but find each other in the end. The Notebook is a sappy love story that brings tears to your eyes. It is a perfect movie for Valentine's Day.
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