The American Ireland Fund Emerald Isle Dinner Dance took place in the Circle Ballroom of the fabled Breakers Hotel on February 13, 2014. The evening was attended by a sellout crowd from the Palm Beach community along with supporters from across the US and guests from Ireland. The stylish and substantive event was a great success and a true Irish party. However, as with all Ireland Fund events, it was a party with a purpose.
The importance of the Fund’s message and mission was highlighted by Co-Chairs Tom Quick and Lore Dodge and The American Ireland Fund Chairman John Fitzpatrick as well as President and CEO Kieran McLoughlin. Paul Gleeson, The Consul General of Ireland in Atlanta, endorsed the work of the Fund saying “The American Ireland Fund is a shining example of philanthropy which delivers, time and time again, for the people of Ireland and for Irish communities in Palm Beach and across the US.”
Kieran McLoughlin noted that whereas the current Promising Ireland Campaign to assist Irish charities has been a great success, the demand for support was overwhelming from hundreds of outstanding organizations undertaking vital work across the island of Ireland. John Fitzpatrick, presiding over his first dinner as Chairman of The American Ireland Fund, spoke about his own personal involvement and the difference The American Ireland Fund it makes on the ground. He noted also that the Fund has made gifts in the Palm Beach community totaling some $300,000 from proceeds of successive Palm Beach dinners. John paid a warm tribute to his predecessor and Chairman Emeritus of The American Ireland Fund Loretta Brennan Glucksman, who attended the event with her family.
The guests were entertained by the unique musical styles of Sephira, two Irish sisters who are violinists and beautiful singers. The dance floor was full, making it a great party backing a great cause. The gala evening drew guests that included members of the Irish American US Council, Ambassador Nancy Brinker, former Ambassador to Hungry; Eileen and Brian Burns, Carol Rohrig and Bill Finneran, Peggy and Kip Condron, Rebecca and Bill Dunn, Jackie and Jim Higgins, Mary Higgins Clark and John Conheeney, Hilie Mahoney, Pepper and Michael Jackson, Lesley and Bart Grenier, and Peggy and Mike McGrath.
