The 17th National American Ireland Fund Gala

March 16, 2009 at the National Building Museum

 

 

The notables of Washington never miss this chance to parade their inner-Irish spirit for the greening of the nation's capital. Leaders from Ireland, North and South, and the United States attended this elegant dinner alongside An Taoiseach, Brian Cowen, T.D. who received the Peace Award by The American Ireland Fund.

 

Other award recipients included Dan Rooney, U.S. Ambassador to Ireland/Owner and Chairman of the Pittsburgh Steelers, as well as long-time supporter Gerry Cassidy, Cassidy & Associates, Congressman Elton Gallegly and Congressman Joe Crowley.

 

The table setting before the gala.

 

 

Two different table arrangements were used to create a unique look for the Gala.

 

 

Archbishop Donald Wuerl greets award recipient Dan Rooney.

 

 

Senator Patrick Leahy jokes with An Taoiseach, Brian Cowen, T.D. and Ambassador Elizabeth Frawley Bagley, Dinner Chair.

 

 

The National Building Museum during Dinner.

 

 

An Taoiseach, Brian Cowen, T.D. receives the Peace Award from Loretta Brennan Glucksman, Chairman of The American Ireland Fund, and Kieran McLoughlin, President of The American Ireland Fund.

 

 

Performance of Keltic Dreams.

 

 

Kieran McLoughlin and Mistress of Ceremonies Norah O'Donnell are congratulating Congressman Joe Crowley to his birthday alongside Congressman Richard Neal and Kingsley Aikins, President and CEO of The Worldwide Ireland Funds.

 

 

Congressman James McGovern enjoys the after party.