It’s St Patrick’s Day!

History remembers her… a wee Irish lass. With her two younger brothers, Anthony and Philip in tow, young Annie Moore from County Cork, Ireland, courageously stepped onto the Isle of Hope on New Year’s Day 1892 – her 15th birthday, and became the first immigrant to be processed through the newly opened Ellis Island Processing Centre.

On this St. Patrick’s Day, we take a brief breather from the contentious, ever-changing health care debate to remember the courage and fortitude of Annie Moore and the more than 17 million immigrants from many nations who, seeking freedom and opportunities to work, passed through the portals of Ellis Island to become… Americans:

It is estimated that over half of all Americans have an ancestor that passed through Ellis Island. Legal immigration is the rainbow that leads to America’s pot o’ golden opportunities. Inspired by his first visit to Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty, Dustin James presents America:

Now, on to the party! Sure and begorrah, on this day of shamrocks, shillelaghs, and shenanigans, in our nation of immigrants, everybody is Irish! Celtic Thunder – a rousing group consisting of four Irish lads and one Scot, kick things off. Launching their family-style entertainment three years ago performing at the St. Patrick’s Day parade in New York City, these five male vocalists are currently promoting their new show ‘That’s Entertainment’ on PBS. Celtic Thunder was named Billboard’s Top World Album/Artist in 2009. The group consists of George Donaldson, Paul Byrom, Ryan Kelly, Keith Harkin, and young Damian McGinty. At the time of their debut, McGinty was just 14 years old. In this video, while singing a solo line, on the last note, he playfully motions downward – signaling that his voice has changed. Turn up the volume and try substituting ‘Romney’ or ‘America’ for ‘Ireland’ and you’ll feel like marching all the way Capitol Hill! Here is Ireland’s Call:

While Obama, Pelosi, and Reid spread their blarney this week, today is the time for the wearin’ o’ the green! How thankful we are for ALL who sacrificed so greatly to immigrate to America and for their work ethic, talents, and traditions. Here’s hoping for some of that Irish leprechaun magic… Now, back to work to defeat Obamacare!

Happy St. Patrick’s Day, everyone!