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| Celtic Radio Community > Celtic Music > Bethlehem 2005- September |
| Posted by: Annabelle 20-Aug-2005, 09:42 PM |
| It's that time again when I propose everyone coming out and meeting each other face to face. If you would like to see who is playing at the Classic Celtic Festival, visit their webpage to check it out. http://www.celticfest.org/ Fran & Beth look forward to seeing you both and make sure you reach out and grab me again if I don't see you! O course every one needs to come out and meet Charlie Zahm. Make sure if you come to walk up and say hello to him and identify yourself and tell him you are a member of "celtic radio community". (grab his new album while you are there) So who's comin this year? I really want to hear from ya'll! So wake up guy and girls!! Get the lead out and start planning on attending. It's about 5 weeks from now so start planning! See you there! Annabelle |
| Posted by: A Shrule Egan 21-Aug-2005, 06:41 PM |
| You think they will keep the pool open after hours again for us???? |
| Posted by: ArizonaAmy9 25-Aug-2005, 12:55 AM |
Well, if all the stars and planets are in alignment, I will be there ... I am waiting to see if my sister can watch over my children for the weekend...as I think I've been talked into this! I've looked online and this seems like a huge event, not like what we have here...so...I think I am due for a wee bit o' Celtic adventure! I hope to be there too!  |
| Posted by: Sekhmet 25-Aug-2005, 02:31 PM |
| I can't this year...stupid doctor thinks I'm made of glass, so come Labor Day (oh the irony...) I'm not supposed to be travelling more than 30 minutes away. Meh. |
| Posted by: A Shrule Egan 25-Aug-2005, 04:52 PM | ||
Amy, when you find out your flight and if your staying at the Hilton Gardens, maybe we can pick you up at the airport. Let us know. If your getting in late in the evening, after we have left for the Friday night shows, I believe the Hilton has a shuttle back and forth from the airport. Not like it's a long walk. You can see the Hilton from the airport parking lot. Bring your bathing suit. Don't worry about a wine glass, I bring those.  Make sure you bring a big suitcase for all the cd's and Welsh cookies you are going to buy.  |
| Posted by: Annabelle 25-Aug-2005, 06:30 PM |
| Amy you ain't gonna get any freakin Welsh cookies cause you know who buys em all up! Just remember to go get your stash before he goes and buys his! Bring an extra suitcase! Or ship to yourself! ha ha! I'm not guilty of that, really! ha ha! Annabelle |
| Posted by: A Shrule Egan 25-Aug-2005, 07:36 PM |
 I seem to remember celebrating a certain bargain basement Celtic Collection Irish Rug you purchased at the fest and the gentleman was nice enough to ship it home. And you STILL managed to fill your suitcase. |
| Posted by: emerald-eyedwanderer 25-Aug-2005, 07:54 PM |
| I hope I would be able to come. It sounds like so much fun. I was looking for airline prices... I would be coming from Grand Rapids, MI and that's an 11 hour drive which I wouldn't have time for. What airport is the closest? |
| Posted by: A Shrule Egan 25-Aug-2005, 09:00 PM |
| Lehigh Valley International=ABE Sometimes referred to as Allentown-Bethlehem-Easton Airport, hence, the ABE. |
| Posted by: A Shrule Egan 25-Aug-2005, 09:04 PM |
| Forgot, we are staying here: http://hiltongardeninn.hilton.com/en/gi/hotels/index.jhtml;jsessionid=U333154EMZGQGCSGBIXM22QKIYFCVUUC?ctyhocn=ABEGIGI |
| Posted by: emerald-eyedwanderer 25-Aug-2005, 09:08 PM |
| Thanks! I'm checking prices right now. |
| Posted by: ArizonaAmy9 25-Aug-2005, 10:30 PM |
 Ok...so let me get this straight...if I want any Welsh cookies...I have to make a dash for them or they will mysteriously have already disappeared....got it  I am still working on it...it would be great to have several of us from CR there! I'll keep you guys posted....everyone have a great Friday!! amy |
| Posted by: A Shrule Egan 26-Aug-2005, 02:46 PM | ||
 Sorry Amy, you forget one thing. I'll be at Bethlehem on Thursday night and I know Dave and Mike from the Infamous Welsh Cookie Company. They always know I'm coming for more cookies. I'll leave you a few crumbs. |
| Posted by: Irish Stepper 26-Aug-2005, 03:33 PM |
| I hope to be going. If we go, we'll only be there on Saturday. I'll probably be spending a lot of my time checking out the pipe bands though! |
| Posted by: A Shrule Egan 27-Aug-2005, 08:43 AM | ||
Just find some time to be in the group shot. Maybe, we can have Charlie in the middle, after one of his shows. |
| Posted by: ArizonaAmy9 27-Aug-2005, 10:45 AM |
 Ahhh...now you have unfair advantage in the cookie business......and also you will be there on Thursday. I hope they are bringing a special supply just for you! Try to leave a box or two for the rest of us I might have a wee flaw in my plan. My sister & her hubby might be out of town on the weekend in question. So...when she is sure..then I'll know if I can come. I am trying to talk her into going a week before or after so we'll see! Have a great weekend all. I am on my way to sit on the soccer field and it is only supposed to get up to 112F today! yeah!  |
| Posted by: A Shrule Egan 27-Aug-2005, 10:15 PM | ||
 We'll not have any of that negative talk. Think positive!!! I just went out and bought a few extra bottles of wine for that weekend and I'm working on a few more from the auction. We need more folks to be there and sample them. |
| Posted by: ArizonaAmy9 27-Aug-2005, 10:34 PM |
 Ach...good point...my oldest is 17 & could probably manage for just the 3 days...but...have never tried that..so...crossing fingers for sister to cooperate with my plans! Right now I could use some cooler weather!! Here's to creative planning!! |
| Posted by: ArizonaAmy9 01-Sep-2005, 11:43 AM |
 Ahhh...now for some sad news...it looks like my sister & her new hubby will be out of town (a trip to Vegas no less!!) the weekend in question...Sooo that means I will probably not be able to come over to the Celtic Fest!! I know my oldest 2 daughters could probably manage for 3 days with their little bro/sis but...I don't think I am game enough to go so far on their first chance to prove competent....so...now I will have to rely on pics from you -- Annabelle, A Shrule Egan and even pathough...so that way I can feel like I was there! I will have to look up CZ schedule maybe there is something else I can come over for...I just have to plan it out....so...pretend I am there!! sniff, sniff... |
| Posted by: A Shrule Egan 05-Sep-2005, 08:48 AM |
| If things change, let us know and we''ll see about picking you up at the airport. |
| Posted by: Eamon 13-Sep-2005, 03:13 PM |
| I will be up either Friday or Saturday night. Have'ta check my work schedule. Cheers, Eamon |
| Posted by: A Shrule Egan 13-Sep-2005, 07:28 PM | ||
 ED, WHERE HAVE YOU BEEN??????? Annabelle and I will be at the fest Friday and Saturday. Get back to us and we'll hook up with you. I'll have an extra wine glass for you. |
| Posted by: ArizonaAmy9 13-Sep-2005, 09:07 PM |
| Hey guys...I was just wondering if any of you had seen CZ in one of the smaller settings? I see that he does many other appearances that are not all at Highland Games and the like...been to any of the other sort? I have not given up hope of seeing him live but won't make it this month...so sad...I know...it would be really fun to meet all of you...Dang it!! I should have found out ealier and planned better! Let me know if you have and how you like it....remember to take lots of pics! |
| Posted by: A Shrule Egan 13-Sep-2005, 09:25 PM |
| Amy, doesn't matter if Charlie is performing at a large fest or a small party. He acts and performs the same way. He gets his audience involved by having conversations with some of them during the show. Sometimes, he has some people come up and get involved with basic instruments during songs. He's just very natural on and off stage. |
| Posted by: ArizonaAmy9 13-Sep-2005, 09:32 PM |
| Thanks A Shrule - I'll keep looking then because I love going to Highland Games and Celtic Festivals...there is always so much to do, see, taste and what not....plus he does do a lot of shows...so there is still hope! You guys have a great time!! |
| Posted by: Annabelle 13-Sep-2005, 10:39 PM |
| Nag Nag Nag! Dat's a girls job to shop! Hopefully Michelle G. W. will keep me in line this year. But I doubt it! Need more rugs! Annabelle |
| Posted by: Annabelle 13-Sep-2005, 10:51 PM |
| Make sure if you come to the festival that you check out USAKilts booth! Kelly and Rocky will take very good care of your kilt needs and they even have a few special ones for the kids at great prices. I hope to see some of you there! Please make sure you reach out and stop me cause I have a habit of watching everything going on around me...See ya'll Friday night for the concert. I'll be taking pictures from the festival so make sure you let me know you are there. I will be accompanied by other CR members so look for us! Yea I'm really redheaded so you shouldn't have any problems finding a crazy looking redheaded idiot! In all things Scottish, since I are one! Annabelle |
| Posted by: Eamon 14-Sep-2005, 09:10 AM |
| A Shrule, Cool. Could use a glass. If you guys are in town Sunday night, the Tannahill Weavers are down in Sellersville...maybe 20 minutes south of the CF. The venue is a small theater...probably not to much more that 200-300 seats, so it will be rockin. I saw Doogie McLean there last year...awesome. Eamon |
| Posted by: Irish Stepper 14-Sep-2005, 02:50 PM |
| Do you guys know what stage you're going to be hanging out at so I know where to look? Shell |
| Posted by: A Shrule Egan 14-Sep-2005, 03:34 PM |
| On Friday night, EVERYONE will be at the main tent for the Glengarry Bhoys. Saturday, we will be all over the place. Check the schedule when you will be busy with your thing and let us know. We'll figure out a time and a place to meet you when your not busy. Or you can just keep your eyes open for us. (Hope this works) http://www.celticradio.net/php/forums/index.php?act=Attach&type=post&id=86776 |
| Posted by: A Shrule Egan 14-Sep-2005, 03:42 PM | ||
Ed, your welcome to have more than a glass but you need to come back to the hotel. I don't think the town fathers would like to see me slugging on a bottle of wine, walking through the fest.  Annabelle flies out on Sunday afternoon and after that, I have an almost 2 hour drive to get back home. I don't think I'll be able to make the Weavers. When you figure out what day or days you are coming, bounce some ideas at me of where you want to meet. If your coming early enough, you can meet us at the hotel. |
| Posted by: Irish Stepper 14-Sep-2005, 03:47 PM |
| Alrighty! I'll keep an eye out for you. I'm not sure what we'll be doing when. I'll probably all over the place since I've never been to a large Celtic Festival like this. And I'll only be there Saturday. We might pop over on Sunday morning as well. Do you guys use the shuttle that they talk about on their website? |
| Posted by: A Shrule Egan 14-Sep-2005, 03:53 PM |
| I use the parking garage by the Bethlehem Brewery. Turn onto Main St. at the brewery, drive about 200 ft. and make the next left at the Irish shop, go up the hill till you get to the parking garage on the right. The high school kids take care of the garage for the weekend and charge $10 for the whole day. Just walk down to the bottom of the hill to the fest. The hard part is climbing back up after a whole day of walking the fest. |
| Posted by: Annabelle 14-Sep-2005, 07:34 PM |
| Shelley I sure hope to find you in the crowd! It would be wonderful to sit and chat ! I really hope to see you there! Print up that picture of us and I'll be on the look out for that innocent face of yours! Annabelle |
| Posted by: A Shrule Egan 15-Sep-2005, 08:48 PM | ||
 Trying to say, you and my cousin will spend the WHOLE time shopping at the fest???Guess I'll be spending more time at the brewery.  |
| Posted by: Irish Stepper 19-Sep-2005, 02:13 PM |
| Well that picture is a bit old. Might want to look at the more recent one that I uploaded into the gallery. That will give ya a better idea of how the last 10 years have taken a toll on my innocence! |
| Posted by: Irish Stepper 19-Sep-2005, 02:19 PM |
| I went ahead and updated my profile photo too. Now you can see the whole gang! I'll be with the hubby, but I'm leaving the kids with grandma! You'll probably be able to pick him and his "Bud 8" hat out of the crowd easier than finding me! Hope to see ya there! |
| Posted by: A Shrule Egan 19-Sep-2005, 03:39 PM |
| Wow!! Bethlehem is such a kid friendly event and your leaving them behind?? Don't show them the pictures. Your going to have to make up excuses of why they couldn't have come. Since you said you are coming on Saturday and leaving some time on Sunday, where are you staying for the night? Is it at the Hilton Garden Inn by the airport? If so, I need to bring more wine glasses. |
| Posted by: Irish Stepper 19-Sep-2005, 03:52 PM |
| We're staying at the Sheraton in Reading. My husband works for their parent company and he got a certificate for 2 free nights. This is going to be a long overdue get-away for us. Now that I think of it, I don't remember us going on a trip by ourselves since we've had the boys. This will also be my first Highland festival, so I want to be able to take it all in without, "mom I'm bored...can we leave now?". There's no way they'd be able to sit still and just listen to music. That's such a waste of time to kids! I'm gonna be selfish. This is a totally ME trip without having to schedule things around them! |
| Posted by: A Shrule Egan 19-Sep-2005, 04:03 PM |
| Can you switch to one of the Sheraton properties in the Bethlehem area? Reading isn't exactly around the corner. |
| Posted by: Irish Stepper 19-Sep-2005, 05:34 PM |
Nope...the company, Meyer Jabara only owns a few hotels in PA, and the certificate is specifically for the one in Reading. I know it's not around the corner, but that's ok. I drive 75 miles one way to work everyday, so anything less than an hour away is considered close for me!  |
| Posted by: A Shrule Egan 19-Sep-2005, 06:06 PM |
| Something tells me, you won't be coming back to Bethlehem on Sunday. There's no easy way to go from Reading to Bethlehem. Rt. 202 goes through every little mining and steel town. Your best bet is to follow the turnpike and come up that way but that is still a pretty good drive. Guess that means you won't be joining us for some refreshments afterwards.  |
| Posted by: A Shrule Egan 19-Sep-2005, 08:33 PM |
| Sorry bout that, it was meant to be Rt. 222, not 202. Any way, it will be slow going on that road. |
| Posted by: Eamon 20-Sep-2005, 10:05 AM |
| A Shrule, Looks like I will be up on Friday evening. Where are you guys going to be? Eamon |
| Posted by: A Shrule Egan 20-Sep-2005, 03:51 PM |
| Ed, we should be there fairly early(5:00ish). Pick a time when you think you will be there and we can meet by the sound board, in the main tent. Just look for the redhead with the huge Canon camera and camera bag. That will be Annabelle. Are you staying for the weekend and if so, where are you staying? We are at the Hilton Garden Inn, on Airport Rd. if you haven't made plans on staying yet. http://www.hiltongardeninn.com/en/gi/hotels/index.jhtml?ctyhocn=ABEGIGI |
| Posted by: Eamon 21-Sep-2005, 09:36 AM |
| A Shrule, We will be getting there around 7, I imagine. I will wear my Wexford Hurling jersey...you canna miss that...bright gold and purple! I will be the guy with the big bear in my hand. Eamon |
| Posted by: gaberlunzie 21-Sep-2005, 02:50 PM |
Just popping in in time to wish all of you a great time at Bethlehem;  enjoy every minute of it. I'll be thinking of you...and if it doesn't kill you have a few for me...  ...see you back next week! |
| Posted by: A Shrule Egan 21-Sep-2005, 03:30 PM | ||
You got it, Ed. Seven it will be. NOW, let's discuss this "BEAR" thing. -------I will be the guy with the big bear in my hand. Eamon Ed, this is a "bear": http://www.bear.org/images/GB_PhotoGallery2_03s.jpg This is a "beer": http://www.drinkstuff.com/productimg/2527.jpg |
| Posted by: Annabelle 21-Sep-2005, 09:01 PM |
| Eamon don't pay attention to him, bring your bear and we will be there early enough to get some good seats. If you get there before us grab some chairs...they go very very fast! I'll have on my Gordon Kilt (like that's gonna help!) with boots. I usually wear a name tag so in case I get lost they can turn me in to the lost and found center. Also I'm usually grinning the whole time so since I don't have any front teeth you should be able to fiind me!!! Ha ha!!! See ya Friday night!!! Annabelle |
| Posted by: Annabelle 21-Sep-2005, 09:41 PM |
| Irish Stepper, hope you see this! We will be going to see the Barley Boys at 2:00 on Sat at the Ice House....if you can make it try to meet up with us there if we haven't run into you yet!!! Take care and be careful on the drive down! Annabelle |
| Posted by: ArizonaAmy9 22-Sep-2005, 06:44 PM |
| I hope you all have a WONDERFUL time!! Sure wish I was coming along with you...but eh maybe next year?!! Can't wait to see the pics Annabelle takes....You all have a for me and be safe! Cheers to all!! |
| Posted by: Eamon 23-Sep-2005, 09:51 AM |
| A Shrule Egan, Well you know what they say.."If you're going to be a bear, be a Grizzly." But I will leave the bear at home and carry a beer instead. Tastes better anyway. See you guys tonight. And for those that cannot make it but would like too, I will have a beer or a bear or two for you. Eamon |
| Posted by: A Shrule Egan 25-Sep-2005, 07:39 PM |
| Back from Bethlehem. Plenty of pics to post in the next few days. Those attending that we know were there: Irish Stepper, Eamon, Fran, Sylvanus, Annabelle and A Shrule Egan. We wanted to get a group picture with Irish Stepper but we never saw her again after the Charlie Zahm show, on Saturday. We do have a group picture with Eamon, when we were at the Glengarry Bhoys show, on Friday night. Unfortunately, Sylvanus had to leave before he got to meet Eamon and didn't make it into the shot. The weather was perfect. No rain and temps in the upper 70's during the day and upper 60's in the evening. The crowd was huge. We tried to get some numbers of how many attended, from some of the officials that we know but they were undermanned this year and couldn't keep up with the count. It appeared that it was bigger than last years crowd. We didn't know it when we made reservations at the Hilton Garden but that was the hotel that all the bands stayed at. We were hanging out with The Barley Boys, in the hot tub. Security finally came in at 12:30 AM and kicked us out. Pool and hot tub are supposed to close at 10, so, I guess we really can't complain, that they let us stay there that long. Speaking of The Barley Boys, they have a new cd out. I think it is available off the web page now. More will be posted about the fest over the next few days. |
| Posted by: TequilaNancy 26-Sep-2005, 06:01 AM |
| Hey Annabelle and A Shrule, I believe I saw you guys from a distance by the Donagal Square tent. I was walking passed on my way to the bathroom and beer tent (in that order)...when I came back, you were no where to be found. Sorry I missed you. It was early Sunday afternoon. We had a really nice day and since it was my "BIG" birthday I was all about the hard cider and music! Barleyjuice was playing in Philly on Friday and Wildwood at Irish Weekend on Saturday so it was a non stop party for me all weekend. I'm totally exhausted! We're still trying to get Barleyjuice in the Celtic Classic, I think that venue is absolutely perfect for them. Haven't been on the board here in a while. Been busy with the new school year starting and it seems like there is just not enough time in the day for anything that includes me sitting at the computer for very long. Sounds like you guys had a great time as usual, did you get to see Old Blind Dogs? They were really great. Since we could only be there Sunday we tried to see everyone, but I thought the Dogs were the best. Maybe next year we will be there and get to hang out with you. Tequila Nancy |
| Posted by: Raven 26-Sep-2005, 01:03 PM |
| Perhaps next year Arminta and I can be there too! Sounds like a good time was had by all! Mikel |
| Posted by: ArizonaAmy9 26-Sep-2005, 02:43 PM |
 WOW - I can't wait to see your group photo!! It sounds like it was a huge success too this year! Better it gets bigger and more popular every year! I'd like to come next year...I'll have to start planning that out now I think since it sounds like it is so much fun!! Hot-tub with the Barley Boys!! geez the fun I missed out on!! Glad you all had a great time...Eamon - I hope you had a for me...and that is beer...not bear... |
| Posted by: A Shrule Egan 26-Sep-2005, 04:59 PM |
| Amy, don't worry about Ed having a beer for you. I can vouch that he did and I think he had my share to. Then we went back to the hotel and popped open a few bottles of Mondavi and Sake. We hung out in the room bs'ing til about 2:30 AM before Ed and his bud, Bill, decided to head home. |
| Posted by: A Shrule Egan 26-Sep-2005, 05:28 PM | ||
Hey Nancy, I thought I saw your hubby from a distance on Sunday but I wasn't sure if it was him. Was he with you??? Yes, we were by Donegal Square many times on Sunday. We were picking Neville's brains about some of his product line. We were also hanging out near Rocky and Kelly at USA Kilts fairly often. We'll be working on getting Barleyjuice for the fest. We now have a direct connection and we'll be discussing many things with that person, for next year. Just need to make sure Barleyjuice doesn't have to play in the "Ice House". That's not a place for them to play. I complained about having The Barley Boys play there. That's a place for accoustic bands only. |
| Posted by: A Shrule Egan 26-Sep-2005, 05:40 PM | ||
Mike, put it on your schedule now. Maybe Peckery and Tracie can join you for the ride, if he's feeling better by then. By the way, why don't you look into getting booked at the Celtic Fling in Manheim, Pa. next year. That's a fest you guys would fit into. Here's the web page, so you cantact them. http://www.parenfaire.com/outdoor/CelticFling/CelticHomePage.htm |
| Posted by: A Shrule Egan 26-Sep-2005, 05:44 PM | ||
By the way Amy, we were meeting Ed (Eamon) for the first time and if you look at his avatar, that's exactly what he looks like. |
| Posted by: A Shrule Egan 26-Sep-2005, 08:00 PM |
| Here's this years version of standing by the lamp post in downtown Bethlehem, Annabelle and myself. |
| Posted by: A Shrule Egan 26-Sep-2005, 08:16 PM |
| Here's another of us after 3 1/2 hours of The Barley Boys and Charlie Zahm shows. The Glengarry Bhoys always park their bus next to the Ice House Stage House, near the Lehigh River. |
| Posted by: Raven 26-Sep-2005, 08:17 PM |
| Thanks Mike I will contact, put on my schedule etc. Peckary seems to be better and I know he is good to go at a moments notice (being independantly wealthy and all )Thanks for the info, I will put it to good use. Also I will have a package in the mail to you probably by the first of next week the way things are going. I was looking into finding a fest this winter to escape the artic cold of Indiana for a warmer climate and it seems like I found one in southern Georgia that looks promising. Perhaps we can meet up with Annabelle if that materializes. TTFN Mikel |
| Posted by: Raven 26-Sep-2005, 08:18 PM |
| Good Pix Mike |
| Posted by: A Shrule Egan 26-Sep-2005, 08:25 PM |
| Mike, we are heading to Dunedin, Florida in November. Why don't you come to that one? I'll post the info for that soon. |
| Posted by: A Shrule Egan 26-Sep-2005, 08:50 PM |
| Mike, from The Barley Boys. |
| Posted by: Annabelle 26-Sep-2005, 09:25 PM |
| Hi Ya'll! We truely had a wonderful time!!!! Everyone of you should kick your butts right now!!!! You all deserve it for missing it! Between almost getting knocked in the head with a baton (was taking a picture of the parade, baton came so close I could feel the wind move against my head- naw, can't hurt me if it hits me in the head) and curtseying in the streets in front of cars I had a terrific time(no I was not intoxicated) forgot you have walk lights in the city and since there was no traffic I started across. I figured if a cop caught me I'd act like a redneck and tell em we ain't got nun down hare!!!! Charlie Zahm is great as usual!!! Had his new albumn out there for sale but the line was very long and everyone was chatting with him so I didn't get a chance to pick up his new album...he did sing many new songs in his performance that day that were real tear jerkers! Yea, I did tear up!!! Wonderful love songs! I hugged my friend Michelle since she was sitting next to me since the song made me feel all teary-eyed! We got the chance to spend some time with the "Barley Boys". Mike has such a great voice and he really puts his heart into his singing. This year was a little different. They have a new and talented fella in the band that plays many many instrunents and for you girls who are around 18- 22 he's da fella you need to be checking out! He's a real cutie and extremely talented musically! But I think we are gonna have to post his picture on here and everyone can let me know what do you think he should wear to play festivals.. you "younger" girls can let me know. I think he should wear a kilt. But we have to get him more "Celtic-ish"!!! There was a group that we got a chance to hear called "Rosheen". Don't know how many of you have had the chance to hear them yet? They are wonderful! They have a singer who has the prettiest voice singing sometimes in French! Their album is great! I've already listened to it 3 times. If you close your eyes and listen it will send you to another time and place. It was also great that this year I got the chance to meet more of our community but didn't get more time to spend with them but Egan and I met up with Eamon and Irish Stepper... Irish Stepper is such a sweetheart!!! I really enjoyed spending some time with her and talking but it wasn't enough time to sit and talk....hopefully we will get more time next year. I tried to get back and meet up with she and her sweet hubby at the next concert later that afternoon but I got to talking to folks and lost track of time (can you believe that?) Also got to spend an evening with my heart throb "Eamon" !!!! He's crazy!!! Keeps me laughing!!!! He really has a brain but prefers only to use it on special occassions, like pay day!! I look forward to spending more time hanging fella!!!Bring Bill!!!! We will be getting out pictures as we can!!! I don't have alot of time right now with business and moving to my new home so swamped! Most important thing I can tell you is this is still the nicest festival!!! So try to come next year you will kick yourself for not coming sooner!!!!! |
| Posted by: Irish Stepper 27-Sep-2005, 12:49 AM |
| Hey ya'll. Yeah, yeah, I know...I didn't meet you guys back at the Grand Pavilion for the Glengarry Bhoys. I wanted to see the sheep dog exhibition and then the Massed Bands. By the time that was over, we headed over to the Grand Pavilion tent and that place was packed like crazy and there was no way I'd have been able to find ya! Plus, I think that hubby had his fill of keeping me amused for the day, so I figured I wouldn't push it! Gotta break him in slowly, and I think he was going into overdrive... I think he tolerates, rather than enjoys, my attraction to all things Celtic! But that's ok...the more you're subjected to something, the more you get used to it, right? He must have enjoyed it to some degree though, cause he's saying that next year we'll have to make it a point to go to both days so that we can see everything. Works for me! It was great meeting Annabelle and Mike. Hopefully, next year we can spend more time hanging out together, and I can meet some more of our CR peeps. |
| Posted by: A Shrule Egan 27-Sep-2005, 04:50 PM |
| On Friday, Annabelle wanted to go to the Crayola Crayon factory in Easton, Pa. about 15 minutes from Bethlehem. They had the world's largest crayon on display in the Crayola store. |
| Posted by: A Shrule Egan 27-Sep-2005, 05:31 PM |
| Ok, all you younger ladies. This is who Annabelle was talking about above. This is Bob, the newest member of The Barley Boys. He played many instruments during the fest and we are told that he plays many others. A terrific personality and he's only 20 years old. I'll let you guys decide if he needs to wear different pants. Annabelle didn't like them. As for the bass player, he's also fairly new to the band but I can't remember his name.  |
| Posted by: A Shrule Egan 27-Sep-2005, 05:49 PM |
| Charlie Zahm, with Tad on fiddle and Mark on percussion at the Icehouse show. |
| Posted by: A Shrule Egan 27-Sep-2005, 06:04 PM |
| The Barley Boys Saturday night show. |
| Posted by: A Shrule Egan 27-Sep-2005, 06:47 PM |
| Annabelle found this plaque on the side of The hotel Bethlehem. Maybe this was the scene of the very first Woodstock. |
| Posted by: A Shrule Egan 27-Sep-2005, 07:14 PM |
| Some of the clan tents, amongst the historical buildings. |
| Posted by: A Shrule Egan 27-Sep-2005, 09:02 PM |
| Here's a better shot of Bob and his colorful pants, that Annabelle hated so much. |
| Posted by: Irish Stepper 28-Sep-2005, 11:08 PM |
| I'd have to agree with Annabelle. I also hated those pants. They look like pajamas! Actually, I don't think I'd even wear something like that to bed! YUCK! Even jeans would have been so much better. He's an awesome musician though, so I guess that's what counts. |
| Posted by: A Shrule Egan 01-Oct-2005, 06:51 PM |
| The Civil War monument in the center of Easton, Pa. outside of the Crayola Factory. The had classical music playing over speakers and park benches to hang out on and relax. |
| Posted by: A Shrule Egan 01-Oct-2005, 07:08 PM |
| This is the band that had the baton twirler that came very close to whacking Annabelle. |
| Posted by: A Shrule Egan 01-Oct-2005, 07:26 PM |
| One of the many bands getting ready to go out on the field for the competition. |
| Posted by: A Shrule Egan 01-Oct-2005, 07:46 PM |
| More historical buildings along the festival grounds with the Bethlehem Hotel in the background. |
| Posted by: ArizonaAmy9 02-Oct-2005, 09:52 AM |
| Annabelle & A Shrule - Thanks for sharing some of your pics with us! I especially like the historical buildings - gives me a better feel for what Bethlehem looks like now and then...I take it that the photo by the lamp post is an annual thing then? How many times have you two been to Celtic Fest? I think next year I'll be making my plans earlier so that I can come too! |
| Posted by: A Shrule Egan 02-Oct-2005, 10:28 AM |
| It's Annabelle's second time but I have been there eight years in a row. Just keeps getting bigger each year. Still haven't heard an official figure of how many people but I heard on the Bethlehem radio station that it broke a record again. Eamon has been there many times, mostly for the encampments that he use to be involved with. It was the first time we got to meet. I knew he was there in previous years but we never got to hook up. I was talking with Dave from, The Infamous Welsh Cookie Company, on Saturday night and he said that he brought 1600 dozen cookies to the fest and didn't think he would have much left to sell for Sunday. I didn't get a chance to go back to see how he did on Sunday but he showed me what he had left on Saturday night and it wasn't much. Yes, I got my share and filled the freezer. |
| Posted by: ArizonaAmy9 02-Oct-2005, 10:46 AM |
| Well...thank goodness you got your share...and also..for a now fully stocked freezer! It seems like it was pretty big this year...so have to assume next year will be even bigger but it is a small town isn't it? I'd really like to come east for a visit...next October seems like a good time eh? I've only been to Wisconsin, Illinois and New York once. My visit to Westpoint was really interesting but I'd like to make a long visit. My oldest daughter is looking at a university in PA...so...who knows... |
| Posted by: A Shrule Egan 02-Oct-2005, 10:56 AM |
| Don't procrastinate next year. Make your reservations at the hotel in late July or early August. We'll most likely stay at the Hilton Gardens again. Nice place and very easy ride into Bethlehem. Talking with the guy at the front desk at the hotel and he said that most of the hotels in the whole area were sold out. That's a lot of rooms. Must be 20 hotels just in the airport area alone and maybe another 30 between the Bethlehem and Allentown areas. |
| Posted by: ArizonaAmy9 02-Oct-2005, 11:10 AM |
| I will take your advice on that A Shrule! My two youngest children are both very interested in history and love going to our Highland games here...but it is MUCH smaller than this in Bethlehem! I might bring them but hate for them to miss school so...could be that...Mom gets a holiday!! Hummm...sounds like a very good idea! I'll have this one on my 'tenative' schedule now...so as it gets closer - I'll be ready to go! |
| Posted by: A Shrule Egan 02-Oct-2005, 06:08 PM |
| I should have a few more pics to post sometime this week. I still had film in the camera that needs to get developed. That should have a few of the group shots and few more of the bands that we saw. |
| Posted by: TequilaNancy 03-Oct-2005, 07:23 AM | ||
Hey A Shrule, Yup hubby was there as well, he has very long curly blonde hair, you couldn't miss him if you tried! lol We were hangin' with Rocky and Kelly also. Boy were they busy! Do you have a contact person to whom we can send the new press kit? I've never been in the Ice House, but I'll take you're word for it, expecially since I, and I'm sure lots of people, don't even remember it's there half the time. I've been to that festival many times and still have not been in there! Let me know what info you have. Thanks bunches! Slainte, Nancy P.S. Great pics by the way! |
| Posted by: A Shrule Egan 03-Oct-2005, 08:18 PM |
| Ah, Nancy, you forget that I met your hubby. I know what he looks like. As for passing on the press kit, hold on for a little while. We have to give the committee time to digest this past fest before starting to build the next one. I'll try to PM the contact to you sometime this week. He already knows who BarleyJuice is, so it won't be to tough a sell. You may actually know who I'm talking about but I'll surprise you with his name. |
| Posted by: A Shrule Egan 03-Oct-2005, 08:30 PM |
| Nancy, forgot to tell you. The Dunedin Fest, in Florida, was looking for another band to play in November and I sent them the web page for BarleyJuice. Maybe we'll see you guys down there. Eighty degree weather in November sure beats the Philly weather. |
| Posted by: TequilaNancy 05-Oct-2005, 07:41 PM |
| A Shrule, I do remember you met Swanny, but his hair was much shorter, no? Anyway, you do have me intrigued! Who is this contact person??? Can't wait to find out...you like keeping people in suspense, huh? As for Florida, hmmm, sounds good to me! They are working on playing a festival in Wisconsin and several other fests out in the midwest next summer. Will keep you posted. They will be heading into the studio next month to record their third cd. Should be a hoot! Cheers, Nancy |
| Posted by: A Shrule Egan 13-Oct-2005, 08:53 PM |
| Been so busy at work this past week that I just found some time to pick up my pics from Bethlehem. This is it, the unveiling of Eamon, who just happens to be a very funny guy. We had a great time with Ed and I hope I can hook up with him more. |
| Posted by: A Shrule Egan 13-Oct-2005, 09:05 PM |
| The group shot at the Glengarry Bhoys show on Friday night. A Shrule Egan, Annabelle, Eamon and Ed's friend, Bill. |
| Posted by: ArizonaAmy9 13-Oct-2005, 10:14 PM |
| I LOVE all of your pics A Shrule!! Thanks for sharing...so you do not use a digi then? My daughter just bought herself a new camera so..I may have to borrow hers a few times...then I can post things fast!! |
| Posted by: A Shrule Egan 15-Oct-2005, 11:09 AM |
| Barley Boys Mike working hard and having fun. |
| Posted by: A Shrule Egan 15-Oct-2005, 11:18 AM | ||
Amy, I still use a 35 mm simply because I haven't found a digital camera under $1000 that can take as nice pictures as the camera I have, a Minolta Supreme 125. Unfortunately, the week after I bought the 125, Minolta came out with a 145 and I would have loved to have that one for the same price. Since I work in the graphics industry, I see the difference every day of what digital cameras can and can't do. |
| Posted by: A Shrule Egan 15-Oct-2005, 11:33 AM |
| Here's a better shot of the crayon on display. It's about 15 feet long and probable 2 feet thick. |
| Posted by: A Shrule Egan 15-Oct-2005, 11:53 AM |
| Barley Boys at the Icehouse show. |
| Posted by: A Shrule Egan 15-Oct-2005, 12:26 PM |
| I was busting on Bob when I took this shot. That's why he's laughing. |
| Posted by: A Shrule Egan 15-Oct-2005, 12:45 PM |
| If you got tired of listening to the bands (is that possible?) or shopping at all the vendors (ditto), you could always watch guys beat on each other. |
| Posted by: A Shrule Egan 15-Oct-2005, 12:56 PM |
| Due to it being so dark in the Icehouse during the Charlie Zahm show, none of the other pictures came out very well. I'll try to clean up the one picture that has some possibilities and post it. |
| Posted by: A Shrule Egan 15-Oct-2005, 01:22 PM |
| Here's the Charlie Zahm picture. I cleaned it up the best I could but without enough light, it still looks very grainey. |
| Posted by: A Shrule Egan 15-Oct-2005, 01:37 PM |
| Annabelle and I were sitting at an outdoor cafe in Easton, having lunch, when this pulled up next to the curb. I wanted to take it out for a ride around the town so much. |
| Posted by: Rindy 15-Oct-2005, 07:40 PM |
| Wonderful pictures A Shrule Egan and Annabelle... Wow that is a big crayon... I see someone has on a Clann An Drumma shirt- cool... Sounds like it was a heck of a show..oh love the police bike... Thanks for the pictures.. Slainte |
| Posted by: maggiemahone1 15-Oct-2005, 10:55 PM |
| I enjoyed looking at all the pictures you posted, but I really liked the picture of the Harley! Very nice indeed! Sounds like all of you folks had a good time. maggiemahone1 |
| Posted by: subhuman 16-Oct-2005, 11:58 PM |
| Now I really wish that I had been at this site sooner, I porbably could have helped out. Irish Stepper: In addition to the Sheraton Berkshire where you stayed, M-J Hotels also owns the Holiday Inn Conference Center in Fogelsville (20 mins W of Celtic Classic) and the Four Points Sheraton, located 1/4 mile north of the hotel that everyone else stayed at. I know the info doesn't do you any good for this year, but maybe next time.... A Shrule Egan and Annabelle- I think we were talking last year at the CC. I never forget a face, even if I'm horrible with names, and I know yours from somewhere. I spend most of my time there hanging out at the beer tent by The Tavern in the Glen unless I'm catching a show or working. |
| Posted by: Irish Stepper 17-Oct-2005, 01:43 AM |
| Subhuman: We actually went ahead and checked into reserving a room at one of those 2 M-J hotels in Allentown for next year. We were told that weekend is just totally out for employees. We'd have to just be a regular guest and pay full price. If we're going to do that, then I'd just as soon as stay at the Hilten Garden with everyone else. |
| Posted by: A Shrule Egan 17-Oct-2005, 04:35 PM | ||
Sub, you need to put a picture in your profile. That's the only way I'm going to know if we were swapping beer stories in the Glen. Annabelle and I talked with a lot of people last year, so there's a good possibility we found you too. We tried to keep it a bit more low key this year and see more vendors. We didn't hit all the bands this year, simply because the lineup wasn't as appealing as last year. |
| Posted by: A Shrule Egan 17-Oct-2005, 04:39 PM | ||
OK Shelly, tell the truth. You want to stay at the Hilton because you really want to be in the hot tub with The Barley Boys. |
| Posted by: subhuman 17-Oct-2005, 09:08 PM | ||
I tried, but the only receont one I have is 487k. Non-paying limitations and all. Being in the ranks of the currently unemployed, even the small membership fee is enough when I'm watching what I spend. I'll remedy that when I'm working again. |
| Posted by: Irish Stepper 24-Oct-2005, 02:26 PM |
| Oh really? In the tub with the Barley Boys? That sounds as good of a reason as any! Might have to leave the hubby home next year. |