I hope everyone survived and enjoyed the Irish Holy Day on March 17. The First Lady and I had a great time at the many events we attended: the Coronation of the King and Queen of the St. Patrick’s Parade, the Irish Community Day, and, of course the Parade. After the Parade, we ventured back to the beautiful Columbian Home for Irish fare, Guinness, and conversation. Out of the blue, my wife asked me if I was an optimist or a pessimist. I said I didn’t know, so she poured me half a glass of water and she asked me, “Is the glass half full or half empty?” I told her I didn’t know about that, but that I did know I was thirsty for a pint Guinness, so up to the Anchor Bar I proceeded and my thirst was quenched. When you’re out and about and feeling a little thirsty, remember that the Anchor Bar opens at 2:00 PM Monday through Saturday and at 10:00 AM on Sunday.
Easter is approaching (April 9 for those members in Fullerton who have yet to get their 2023 calendars). It seems that as we get older we remember more about what we did at Eastertime when we were younger. Having parties, drinking until the wee hours of the morning, eating the chocolate candy that was supposed to go in the Easter baskets, and doing sketchy stuff on spring break. Now, in the blink of an eye, we’re drinking water, eating salads, dying eggs, trying to stay awake until the 10:00 PM news is over, and can’t do sketchy stuff because we pulled a muscle trying to put on our socks.
So, why not start some new Easter memories and have Easter dinner at the beautiful Columbian Home? As usual, the food and drinks are the very best, and the atmosphere is delightful. So, bring your family and friends for a wonderful time on Sunday, April 9. Reservations are required, so hurry up and make yours before they are sold out. You won’t be sorry. Just call 610-432-6333, extension #1.
We are now requiring that you bring your membership card to the home for all events. We are noticing a number of people coming to the Columbian Home who are not members. This hurts those who are dues-paying members, so we will now require all members to have their cards with them for entry.
Our Columbian Home manager and treasurer, Joe Brogan, recently had heart surgery, so please keep him in your prayers. He is a big reason why things run so smoothly and we sure do miss him. He’s recovering well and hopes to be back with us soon.
I would like to thank AOH President Ken Walsh, Bif Bimler, and Larry Lindenmuth for their work restoring our flagpole. It looks wonderful.
Thought for the day: long ago when men beat the ground with sticks, it was called witchcraft. Today, it is called golf. The Ancient Order of Hibernians (AOH) Lehigh County Division I and the Knight of Columbus Council 528 will be having golf outings this spring and summer to benefit local charities. Please look for announcements about the events and support them both.
Finally, anyone who has been an Active member of the Columbian Home and wishes to run for the Board of Directors must state your interest in writing. Each year, there are four positions up for election, and candidates must write a letter of intent in order to be on the ballot. Please send letters to the Columbian Home at 1519 W. Greenleaf St., Allentown PA 18102. Write “elections” on the envelope and be sure to mail them so they are received before the April 18th board meeting. (You may also hand-deliver your letters – the bartenders will gladly take them.) Elections will take place at the May16 Board of Directors meeting.
As always, I keep you all in my prayers and wish you a Blessed Easter.
All the best,
Joe