An Nuacht

The Newsletter of

The Order of the Friendly Sons of the Shillelagh - Essex Division

A 501c(3) Non Profit Organization

October 2, 2025

Inside this Edition

• Presidents Message
• Author to Visit FSOS
• Las Vegas in WO
• Luck o' the Pup Recap
• St. Baldrick's Recap
• FSOS Golf Outing
• Annual Dues
• Quent Golf Outing
• Essex Shillelaghs GAA Report
• Essex Shillelaghs Pipe Band Report
• Local Irish Org Events
• Ancient Ireland: What Makes Me Celtic?
• Welcome New Members
• Good & Welfare
• Shillelaghs Out and About
• Shillelagh Uniforms
• 2025 FSOS Calendar
• Join a Committee

Wednesday October 8, 2025 7:30PM Start!



Our regular 2nd Wednesday of the month General Meeting.

Looking forward to seeing you there!

A Night of Fortunes at the Shillelagh Club

From the wild hills of Donegal to the hearth of West Orange, the spirit of chance has always been part of the Irish way.

And so, friends, gather ‘round, for the Friendly Sons of the Shillelagh are proud to present our first-ever Shillelagh Casino Night—an evening that promises laughter and a touch of daring luck!

On Friday, November 28, 2025, our Banquet Hall will be transformed into a gambler’s haven, complete with four Blackjack tables, Texas Hold’em, Roulette, and a full-size Craps table, each managed by seasoned professionals under the keen eye of a Pitboss.

Your admission ticket of $100 brings you $400 in Shillelagh Bucks, with a special bonus: purchase before October 28th and you’ll receive an additional $100 in Shillelagh Bucks—a full $500 stake to try your fortune at the tables. For those with the heart of a high roller, extra Shillelagh Bucks will be available for purchase on the night.

As if that weren’t enough, there will be an open bar from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m., finger foods aplenty, and prizes valued up to $10,000 for the lucky winners.

But take heed, lads and lassies—our Banquet Hall is bound by strict capacity. Only 120 tickets will be sold, on a first-come, first-served basis, and no reservations will be made without payment. Once they’re gone, they’re gone—like a summer sunset slipping behind the Donegal hills.

Event Details:

• Date: Friday, November 28, 2025
• Time: 6:30 – 9:30 p.m.
• Location: Shillelagh Club, 648 Prospect Ave, West Orange, NJ
• Tickets: $100 pp, Limited to 120 — secure yours with Venmo (@ShillelaghClub) or cash/check payable to FSOS
• Contact: shillelaghevents@gmail.com

Come join us for a night where the dice will roll, the cards will fall, and the Luck o' the Shillelagh will shine bright.

On a sunny, late Summer Day on Sunday, 9/14 the Shillelagh Club sponsored its 9th annual Luck O’ the Pup Pet Adoption and fundraiser to great success.

9 animal shelters participated in the adoption event including Rosemarie’s Rescue Ranch, Common Sense for Animals, Meow’s Kitty Kat Rescue, West Orange TNVR, Cold Nose Warm Heart NJ, Rescue Haven Foundation, Associated Humane Societies- Newark, One Step Closer Animal Rescue (O.S.C.A.R.) and Sedona Shepherd Sanctuary.

Spearheaded by Mary Maxwell, the Luck O’ The Pup event resulted in twelve adoptions with several more pending completed applications. The event also served as both a fundraiser for all the shelters and a community event.

Hundreds of participants were provided complimentary food and soft drinks prepared by Shillelagh and Luck O’ The Pup volunteers, while enjoying music, a face painter and shopping at vendor pop up sites. The Veterinary Medical Center of Caldwell was on site with veterinarians and vet techs providing no-cost rabies shots and nail clips. Emcee duties were provided by Terrie Carr and Father Jerry Racioppi held a special pet blessing.

Tito’s Handmade Vodka co-sponsored the event with special vodka drinks named in honor of the participating rescues. Tito’s is donating a portion of all sales through September to the fundraiser. Tito’s also provided several baskets to the basket raffle, including a custom Tito’s doghouse. Other popular baskets included a NY Giants basket, a basket filled with Kiehl’s skin care and cosmetics, and a Smart TV. Between the Basket Raffle, 50-50 raffle, and personal donations, Luck O’ The Pup raised over $7,000 in funds to be distributed to the participating animal shelters. The Luck O’ the Pup annual event since its inception in 2016 has raised over $60,000 for the shelters.

The majority of the shelters are already planning on returning for next year’s 10th annual event. The shelters were happy with the turnout, the number of adoptions, and the enthusiastic support provided by Mary and all the Luck O’ The Pup and Shillelagh volunteers.

On Saturday, September 27, 2025, the Friendly Sons of the Shillelagh once again proved that the spirit of brotherhood and community runs strong in West Orange. In our 19th consecutive year hosting a St. Baldrick’s Foundation event, our clubhouse at 648 Prospect Avenue was buzzing with energy to support children bravely battling cancer.

Thanks to the heart and commitment of 21 shaving participants and 7 dedicated teams of volunteers, we are proud to announce that over $40,000 was raised this year—pushing our cumulative total to well beyond $1.3 million!

From the first head shaved to the last cheer of the day, the event was a true celebration of generosity and courage. Each participant, whether taking the clippers to their own hair or supporting from the sidelines, helped create an atmosphere filled with hope and compassion.

Families, friends, and neighbors gathered to encourage the shavees, enjoy each other’s company, and carry forward the mission of funding lifesaving childhood cancer research.

A special word of thanks goes to Kevin Kinney and all who organized, volunteered, and rallied support to make this event such a resounding success. The dedication of our Shillelagh community—year after year—is what keeps this tradition alive and impactful.

As we look ahead to our 20th year, let’s take pride in the difference we’ve made and the lives we continue to touch. Together, we shave for a cure, we shave for courage, and we shave for kids everywhere.

Sláinte to another year of hope and generosity!

It's not too late to donate! Follow the link below:

St. Baldrick's Event at the FSOS

Golf Committee chairman Mike Tevlin reports that with returning foursomes from last year re-upping for 2025, the event is sold out. Mike will be keeping a wait list for any members who would like to play.

Sponsorship spots are still available. Please consider a donation to help with the FSOS Scholarship Fund.

Contact Mike at mtevlin4@verizon.net for more details and putting your name on the waiting list.

Essex, It’s Our Turn to Swing South —

Join the FSOS Quint Shillelagh Golf Outing in Myrtle Beach!

Calling all golfers, craic seekers, and champions of the friendly rivalry between Shillelagh clubs!

Mark your calendars for Sunday, November 16, 2025, as the Friendly Sons of the Shillelagh of the Carolinas hosts the annual Quint Shillelagh Golf Outing at the legendary Legends Golf Course in Myrtle Beach, SC. This rotating tradition brings together members from all five FSOS clubs — Old Bridge, Belmar, Ocean, Myrtle Beach, and Essex — for a weekend of camaraderie, competition, and good cheer.

Payment Information:

• Cost: $150 (covers the event only)
• Deadline: HAS PAST
• Payable by:
• Check: Made out to FSOS with memo: Quint Golf
• Venmo: @ShillelaghClub — Label the payment memo: Quint Golf

To Join a Wait List:

• Visit the sign-up link here: Sign-Up Genius
• Please include:
• Shirt size
• Dates you’ll be in Myrtle Beach (in the "comments" section)

FSOS-Essex Spots are SOLD OUT - if you want to be placed on the waitlist reach out to Bill Kohlman:

Bill Kohlman

973-886-0988

What’s included:

• Green fees and cart
• Continental breakfast
• Golf shirt (be sure to include your size when registering!)
• Contests for longest drive and closest to the pin
• Lunch with beverages
• Awards dinner with food and 2-hour open bar

Tee Times:

7:30 AM to 9:40 AM — Captain’s Choice Format

Lodging:

On-site lodging available, with a pub within walking distance. Call 1-800-299-6187 ext. 2300 for reservations.

This is more than just a golf outing — it’s a tradition among the FSOS brotherhood. Whether you’re a scratch golfer or just out for the laughs, the Quint is a fantastic way to represent the Essex Division and connect with Shillelaghs from every corner of the map.

Women of Irish Heritage Honors the Essex Shi-Ladies

On Saturday, November 22, 2025, the Women of Irish Heritage, Inc. will celebrate its 52nd Anniversary Gala at Ravello’s in East Hanover, NJ. The evening will feature music by the Mike Perry Band, a hot and cold buffet, and open bar as the community comes together to honor exceptional women of Irish heritage.

This year’s program will pay special tribute to Gwen Glazier, the 2025 Irish Woman of the Year, as well as to our own Essex GAA Shi-Ladies, who will be recognized as “Friends of the Women of Irish Heritage.”

For the Essex Shillelaghs, this is a proud moment. The Shi-Ladies have been a cornerstone of our our club since 2024—supporting our youth programs, raising funds, organizing cultural activities, and standing shoulder-to-shoulder with the ESGAA in every endeavor. Their recognition by the Women of Irish Heritage is a fitting tribute to the countless hours they have dedicated to our club, our players, and the Irish community of Essex County.

We encourage all Essex Shillelaghs GAA members, families, and friends to attend the gala in support of the Shi-Ladies and to honor Gwen Glazier and all recipients. This is an opportunity for our club to show appreciation for the Shi-Ladies’ leadership and to celebrate Irish heritage together.

Event Details:

• Date: Saturday, November 22, 2025
• Time: 6:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
• Location: Ravello’s, East Hanover, NJ
• Tickets: $110 per person (includes buffet and open bar)
• RSVP by: November 10, 2025

Reservations can be made online at WOIHNJ.com or via Zelle/Zeffy/Check using the links provided on the official flyer.

Let’s turn out in full Shillelagh spirit to celebrate the Shi-Ladies, who have given so much of themselves for the good of the club and community.

Men’s Gaelic Football League Kicks Off Strong in West Orange

October 11, 2025, 12-2pm - WOSPD Parade Committee - Family Fun Day - Free Admission 

October 20, 2025, 11:30am Shotgun Start, McKeon's Annual Golf Outing for NYMB, Philip Rotella Golf Course, Haverstraw, NY (flyer attached) 

November 16, 2025, FSOS Quit Golf Outing, Myrtle Beach, SC  

November 22, 2025, 6-10pm - WOIH Annual Cocktail Party, Ravello's, East Hanover, $110pp

December 13, 2025, 12:00pm - St. Patrick's Guard of Honor, Annual Luncheon, Hanover Manor,$100pp Info & Tickets

March 17, 2026, FSOSP 122nd Annual Dinner, Hanover Manor, East Hanover, NJ

Editor's Note: Ancient Ireland & History Roundtable is presented by the History Committee of the FSOS and hopes to bring to life the richness of Irish history with curated and authored articles by members. Submissions for publication are encouraged, subject to Editorial staff approval.

What makes me Celtic?

Identifying the Celts is an academic pursuit that has lasted for centuries. Where did Celts come from and who are they related to? What languages did Celtics speak, how were they socially organized, and what was the culture like in ancient times? Most important: where are the Celts now? These questions were pursued and documented by the Greeks and Romans for a thousand years in antiquity, from 500 BCE to 500 AD. But then information disappeared until the Renaissance when scholars took up the quest again and researched written, linguistic, and material evidence.

The Celts were named in 517 BCE by Hecataeus who called them “Koltai” which was later Latinized to “Celtae.” Ancient Greeks and Romans wrote about and described the Celts as fearless warriors who ruled large territories, marauded across Europe, penetrated into Asia Minor, sacked Rome in 390 BCE and desecrated Delphi in Greece in 279 BCE. Julius Caesar had documented every battle he had had with the “Gauls” (a worthy adversary), but it is not clear if Gauls was what the Romans called them or if that was the Celtic name for their tribe. Caesar also wrote of his own army's only loss in Gaul to Vercingetorix at the Battle of Gergovia in 52 BCE. Sadly, when VG finally lost to JC in a later battle, he was taken as prisoner to Rome for a ceremonial execution. The Romans invaded Gaul and Iberia, and later moved into Britain, transforming the Celts in those areas they had conquered along the way.

The Celtic Revival began in the 16^th and 17^h centuries and soon every country was arguing about which of them was the closest descendants of the Celts, the oldest known inhabitants of Europe. Various myths emerged such as tracing the Celts as descendants of Noah through his son Japheth, or even that Celts are descendants of the Trojans after the fall of Troy who (allegedly) settled in southern France. There could be a connection to the Scythians of central Eurasia, and we are very familiar with the Apostle Paul and his letters to the Galatians. Lots of possibilities!

The ancient Celts were structured into classes: Knights (nobility), Druids (clergy), and everybody else. The Druids were trained to memorize poetry, philosophy, important lineages and historical matters, so those things were not written. Ogham, for example, an ancient Celtic way of writing, sometimes referred to as the Celtic Tree alphabet, is thought to be making references to the Greek alphabet. Caesar, also, did make a reference that for public and private accounts, the Celts recorded them in Greek. Scholars in the Renaissance and into the Enlightenment were pouring over ancient texts written by ancient Romans and Greeks and others but not Celtic documents because the Celts did not write in that way.

A consensus of scholars agreed that the peoples of Britain, Wales, Manx, Scotland, and Ireland were related to the people of Gaul because of the similarity of their manner, religion, and language. Using Etymology (the study of words) and Toponyms (place names) on the languages spoken in “remote” areas of their current times, scholars came to classify two major “families” of Celtic languages: Brittonic and Goidelic (P-Celtic and Q-Celtic, respectively). P-Celtic languages are Welsh, Cornish and Breton, while Q-Celtic languages are Irish, Scottish-Gaelic, and Manx, for example. It seems like the Gauls and continental European places the Romans had invaded spoke with the P-Celtic dialect and those on the seacoasts and fringes of the Celtic world with less Roman exposure used the Q-Celtic dialect. Scholars' conclusions may have been influenced by Tacitus, a Greek historian of the first Century AD, who noted that the Caledonians, with their reddish hair, probably originated from Germany while the Silures in South Wales, with their curly black hair, probably originated from Iberia. Using all those clues, Etymologists have identified the extinct languages of Celt-Iberian (probably Q-Celtic) and Gaulish (probably P-Celtic).

Enter Christianity. While early Christian monks were not concerned with the Celts of antiquity, they were interested in bringing the Word of God to those “far from Rome” places. While on their missionary work, the monks wrote about their experiences with those people and places. The spread of Christianity also brought literary education with it, providing those people living outside of “civilization” the tools to write their own stories and myths. Through these early Christian artifacts, historians applied some cultural “glue” to the descendants of the Celtic diaspora from mainland Europe. Voila! There was no central Celtic nation in antiquity, no central political center or government, and they didn't even call themselves Celts. The picture from the Celtic puzzle emerged from the documentation by others of the manners, religions, and languages that are common or related to the peoples we now call Celtic.

What about DNA tracing, you say? No clarity there. The Celts were not a single race or ethnic group but a variety of peoples living under similar cultures, traditions, artistry, languages, and mythology within their tribal groups. Ancient tribal groups, gathered in villages, towns, and kingdoms through alliances with influential leaders for sharing resources, protection and also commerce! Bronze-age economics, conflicts and warfare shifted territories and boundaries, and sometimes led to groups shifting allegiances. Celtic intermixing and intermarriages stirred the DNA such that the modern heirs of the Celtic people (us) have a complex and diverse genetic makeup, reflecting centuries of exchanges and consolidation with each other and with other European groups.

What makes us Celtic? We look for where we come from and who we're related to. We honor the languages of our homeland and ancestors, and try to speak it ourselves. We gather to sing the traditional songs and share the stories and myths of the past. And I say: what makes me Celtic is what's in my heart, in my mind, and in my soul. Where are the Celts now? We are here!

• Gerard Falzo is battling a nasty foot infection. His doctor has prescribed rest, but as we all know Gerard is not one to sit idle. We wish Gerard a full and speedy recovery.

• Ollie Browne represented the Essex Shillelaghs at Irish Consolate in NYC on September 23rd. New Consulate General Gerald Angley, and new Deputy Consul Roisin Leonard were in attendance. Consulate General Angley introduced Irish minister for International Development and Diaspora Neale Richmond.

September 12, Tommy Knox Annual Golf Outing, Rock Spring Golf Course

September 14, Luck o' the Pup, Shillelagh Club

September 27, St. Baldrick's Brave the Shave

Seen in Mayo and Belfast in September: x-Pat Pollard & Charlie Glaws



Shillelaghs About and About: monthly posting of members & friends at our club, at our events or proudly wearing Shillelagh Swag anywhere in the world. Bring your Swag where ever you go and send pics to corresponding@shillelaghclub.com .

Dressed for Success as an Essex Shillelagh

The Executive Board has approved the Shillelagh uniform for 2025. 

All of what is listed below is considered part of the Official uniform for all members.  

Shillelagh Blazer 

• Call Ambassador Uniform at (800) 711-5885 x104. Ask to speak with sales and tell them you are calling to order:
• Shillelagh Blazer, Style #2013 in Hunter Green 
• Price is $76.90 (as of this email) 
• Turnaround time is 2-3 weeks

Shillelagh Patch

• The Shillelagh patch will be provided by the Club for members who have secured their Shillelagh blazer. Please speak with Kevin Kinney kevinkinney1@gmail.com.

Shillelagh Tie

• The Shillelagh tie is available for purchase at the Club. Please speak with Kevin Kinney kevinkinney1@gmail.com.

Slacks

• We have selected one style of charcoal gray slacks that members must wear. These slacks are available for purchase on Amazon, through this link Shillelagh Slacks
• Haggar Men's Premium Comfort Classic Fit Pleat Front Pant 
• Color: Charcoal **color is the most important aspect, as it is the most visible to those viewing the Club as we march together. If your size is not available in this particular pant, please purchase a similar model in Haggar charcoal**
• Price is variable by size (as of this email)

Shillelagh Cap

• The Shillelagh cap is available for purchase from Sashay Studios, through this link Shillelagh Cap
• Price is $15.00 (as of this email)   

Shillelagh Sweater

• The Shillelagh sweater is available for purchase from Sashay Studios, through this Shillelagh Sweater
• Price is $38.00 (as of this email) 

Shirt

• White button down dress shirt

Shoes 

• Black dress shoes



Looking forward to seeing everyone looking good come parade season!

An Nuacht is published monthly by the Corresponding Secretary, Jim McGuire with Funding Support from:

For information, submissions or advertising, please contact Jim McGuire at corresponding@shillelghclub.com