Hello and welcome to this week’s issue of Ireland’s Own.

We have a very interesting cover story for you this week in ‘Send One Ship’. The founding of the Irish charity Concern Worldwide fifty years ago was directly attributable to the horrific poverty and famine which ensued as a result of the Biafran war, writes Mary Rose McCarthy.

John Mullally profiles the Irish American poet and essayist, Louise Imogen Guiney, who was a lyricist and lover of Ireland. Liam Power takes a trip down memory lane incorporating the songs of ABBA in the form of a tall tale, which is a very entertaining read.

Pauline Murphy profiles the first female veterinary surgeon to be recognised by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons, Aleen Cust, known as Tipperary’s “trail-blazing vet”. In his “Role of the Irish in WW2” series, Con McGrath features Ted and Maureen Sweeney of Mayo’s Blacksod Lighthouse, whose weather forecast saved the D-Day invasion from potential disaster.

Martyn Baguley recalls the life and works of the Irish-born artist, Phoebe Anna Traqqair, who achieved international recognition for her role in the Arts and Crafts movement in Scotland.

‘May His Spirit Still Live On’. In June 1963, John F. Kennedy became the first serving President of the USA to visit Ireland. Fionnuala McNicholl was just three years old at the time, but the events of that June – and subsequently those of November 1963 – left a lasting impression.
This month’s choice is The Choice by Edith Eger and our original short story is ‘Emily’s Secret’ by Phil Chambers. We have all this for you to enjoy alongside your regular favourites including Cassidy, Dan Conway, Stranger Than Fiction, songs, jokes, puzzles, memory pieces, pen pals, advice from Pete’s Pets, gardening, cooking and much much more. Sure the week wouldn’t be the same without it!

Enjoy the read, take care and I’ll look forward to talking to you all again next week.                                                                               

                                                                                                               Best wishes,

Seán Nolan, Editor, Ireland’s Own