On today’s show Máire Moynahan spoke with Seamus Mulconroy, Executive Director of Philanthropy Ireland and Kilkee native about a novel fundraising initiative set up by the group. We in Ireland are noted for our generosity but for obvious reasons over the last few years we’ve decreased what we give to charitable causes – however a new campaign aims to address this. The One Percent Difference – The idea is simple; it doesn’t matter who you are or what you do, everyone gives the same – 1%. The campaign has been initiated by Philanthropy Ireland. Philanthropy Ireland is the Association of independent philanthropic organisations in Ireland, including grant making trusts and foundations. For more details please see http://www.onepercentdifference.ie/
Fiona McPherson is a Senior Editor at Oxford University Press and joined the show to talk about how ‘Selfie’ has been chosen as the word of the year. It means taking a photo of yourself then posting it to a social networking site – and millions of people are doing it, including celebrities. One of the most famous selfies this year was the Pope posing with teenagers at the Vatican. Another word on this year’s shortlist was "twerk" – a provocative dance move. Fiona spoke about the ever changing nature of language and how slang is more and more part of our vocabulary.
Louise McNamara, one half of Heathers was also a guest of the show. Heathers are 23 yr old twins Ellie and Louise. Their first album (Here, Not There) was an acoustic-only project, which they recorded when they were 17. This album got some great critical reaction, and led to 2 summer length tours of the US. A track from that album; Remember When; was chosen to soundtrack a major advertising campaign for Tourism Ireland. The song went on to become a Number 1 hit in Ireland. The girls have released a second album – Kingdom and have just returned from a North American tour. They are currently involved in the Cycle Against Suicide campaign and have contributed to a new compilation album entitled “Simple Things”.
Ailish Hanrahan and Ailise Corry were also in studio to talk about how they are playing the lead roles in Scoil Mhuire Ennistymon’s latest production. The school has a proud history of exceptional musical productions which are staged bi-annually. Based on the classic 1933 movie musical of the same name, 42nd Street tells the story of a starry-eyed young actress named Peggy Sawyer, played by Ailise Corry, who has come to audition for the new Julian Marsh musical that is about to open on Broadway. This is a feel good production from the girls, full of smiles, a visual feast and an explosion of music, singing and dancing all of which dazzles in a true musical classic. The memorable score includes ‘We’re in the Money’, ‘You’re getting to be a habit with me ‘, ‘Lullaby of Broadway ‘ Contact the school for tickets and they’ll be available on the door – the show runs nightly from Thursday on.
Grainne O’Malley from MS Ireland also spoke to Máire about how coping with Multiple Sclerosis can be a two-person job. Multiple Sclerosis Ireland is calling on the public to support everyone affected by MS by donating to their new text appeal. Every single donation received will go directly to the MS Care Centre so they can continue to provide specialist care at the highest possible standards. Text CARER to 50300 to donate €4. Members of the public with any queries relating to MS should call the MS Information Line 1850 233 233. Open Monday to Friday 10am–2pm. Calls are strictly confidential.
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