Top 100 Irish Americans Announced

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Irish Voice Entertainment

Top 100 Irish Americans Announced

March 12, 2008

By Debbie McGoldrick

ONE hundred of the nation’s top Irish Americans will be honored this week at the prestigious “Top 100” awards hosted by our sister publication Irish America magazine in New York.

Distinguished Irish Americans from the worlds of entertainment, sports, media, music and politics will be celebrated . Tom Moran, president and CEO of Mutual of America, is the 2008 Irish American of the Year for his extraordinary work on the Irish peace process and his charitable work on behalf of Concern, the Third World relief agency.

Others on the list are Senator Barack Obama, whose Irish ancestry on his mother’s side was revealed recently. Senator Hillary Clinton and her husband Bill are also named for their extraordinary work on the Irish peace process. Senator John McCain is also honored for his work on behalf of immigration reform and the Irish peace process.

The success of the Irish peace process will be the theme of this year’s event. Among those present will be Sinn Fein President Gerry Adams, Northern Ireland Minister Margaret Ritchie and Irish government Minister for Education Mary Hanafin.

A special presentation will be made to Father Alec Reid, the priest who first brought the sides together to kick off the peace process. He will receive the inaugural Irish America magazine Peace Award.

Also honored will be Sir James and Lady Jeanne Galway, who will receive the Artistic Achievement Award for their distinguished musical careers worldwide.

Now in its 23rd year, the Top 100 list honors Irish Americans who are selected for their outstanding achievements and their commitment to their Irish heritage. This year’s award recipients were joined by community leaders, family and special guests.

Patricia Harty, editor and co-founder of Irish America, said, “The Irish don’t necessarily live in ‘Irish neighborhoods’ any more so we are delighted, once a year, to bring outstanding Irish Americans from all walks of life together for a special evening celebrating our unique Irish heritage.”

Irish America founding publisher Niall O’Dowd commented, “The Top 100 is an extraordinary event which highlights the leading Irish Americans. It has blazed a trail in identifying those to whom heritage and success go hand in hand.

“This year we are especially delighted in honoring Tom Moran and peacemakers for their work on the Northern Ireland peace process.”

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