b"1 2 34 5 6 727th Annual Chicago Gala Dinner8NOVEMBER, 2011THE 27TH ANNUAL AMERICAN IRELAND FUND DINNER WASHELD AT THE FOUR SEASONS HOTEL.A record crowd of 450 came together to pay tribute to1 Brad Archibald, Meghan O'Halleran, Loretta Cooney,three outstanding Chicago honorees. Denis J. Healy, Co-Chairman, Turtle Wax, Inc and one of the foundersMike OHalleran 2 Pat Lynch, Suren Gupta of The American Ireland Fund in Chicago received the 2011 Leadership Award. Allstate was the recipient3 Monsignor Ken Velo, Denis Healy, Tom Meagher, Jr.,of the 2011 Corporate Social Leadership Award. And Michael Flatley, world-renowned dancer, creator, Pat Lynch 4 Sondra and Denis Healy &producer, and director, was honored with the 2011 Performing Arts Award. Denis Healy, surrounded by wifeFamily 5 Michael Flatley andSondra, three children, and eleven grandchildren, talked about what his Irish heritage has meant to him.Kieran McLoughlin 6 Michael FlatleyHe noted that his work on the Korean War Museum allows him to honor both the country of his birth and7 CeCe and Tom Ricketts, Michael Flatleyhis ancestors as hundreds of the soldiers who served were sons of Ireland. Michael Flatley acknowledged8 Mayor Rahm Emanuel, Tom Meagher, Sr., Tom Meagher,his parents as his heroes. He credits his father with instilling in him a tireless work ethic and drive. MichaelJr., Kieran McLoughlinbegan his career as a construction worker on Chicagos South Side and has become one of the worldsmost accomplished artists. He treated the guests to an impromptu song on his flute. The program thensegued into an electrifying performance by one of Irelands top bands, Frankie Gavin and De Dannan. It was, however, more than just an evening of Irish fun. It was about raising funds to support the worthy programs that promote peace, advance reconciliation, preserve Irish culture, strengthen community development, and support those in need. connect 2012 | 81"