Page 7 - O Mahony Society Newsletter NOV 2025_Neat

milestone Gathering in Cork, Ireland—uniting our local
celebration with the global family through the magic of Zoom.
What unfolded was nothing short of a worldwide embrace, as
loved ones joined from every corner of the globe to share in this
unique international event!

By mid-morning, ÉireannRidge began to fill with laughter,
familiar faces, and the scent of Irish treats. Guests mingled
over snacks and festive swag as we counted down to the virtual
connection—where tradition met technology, and our home
became a beacon of shared legacy and warmth.
At midday, our virtual bridge to the world came to life.
Gathered at the O’Mahony Public House within ÉireannRidge,
in-person guests connected with global attendees through a
large interactive screen—transforming the pub into a living
tapestry of voices, faces, and shared heritage. Together, we
journeyed through the rich landscapes of Irish and O Mahony
family history, exchanging stories, poetry, music, and heartfelt
moments that spanned generations and continents.
We proudly participated in the historic OMS Annual General
Meeting held at Coolcower House in County Cork, Ireland.
Following this landmark gathering, we continued the
celebration—both in person and virtually—with a deeper
exploration of Irish culture as it thrives around the world today.

During this special segment, OMS members Kevin and
Kenny Gifford were honored with a copy of the 1916 Irish
Proclamation, commemorating their newly granted Irish
citizenship. Kevin and Kenny are cousins of fellow OMS
members Bill O’Mahoney-Badzmierowski and Robert
Badzmierowski. Our shared Irish citizenship is rooted in the
legacy of our Irish citizen parents and our beloved grandmother,
Bridget Theresa O’Mahoney Gifford who was born in County
Cork, Ireland in 1887.

A highlight of the virtual celebration was the activation of a
live portal, connecting attendees at Féile ag ÉireannRidge with
participants in Ireland and across the globe. This interactive
experience brought our worldwide community together in real
time, bridging continents through heritage, technology, and
shared pride.
Following the virtual celebration, the live portal remained open
throughout the day, allowing continued connection across
continents. At Féile ag ÉireannRidge, attendees gathered for a
delightful Irish lunch, rich in tradition and camaraderie.

Afterward, we synchronized our festivities with the OMS
Gathering in Ireland, ensuring that our cherished “party piece”
performances unfolded in harmony. These beloved moments—
hallmarks of Irish gatherings—featured personal expressions of
joy and talent, from heartfelt songs and stirring poems to lively
dances and whimsical acts.
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