SNIPPET: It is nice to know that the ancient tradition of hospitality continues to thrive within an Irish society that is constantly assailed by the pressures of commercialism. Per the March-April 2006 issue of Dublin's fine "Ireland of the Welcomes" magazine, over 3,000 visitors to Ireland nominated somebody who went the extra mile for them during their stay in Ireland in 2005. Nominations were received from 49 countries, with almost one-third from the United States. Almost 20% came from the UK and interestingly 11% were from Irish people praising the Irish welcome they experienced around the country. Half the nominations received were for people running B&Bs. Nominations were not limited to professionals working in hospitality but included those individuals whose single act of hospitality or kindness made a significant difference. Mother and daughter Bernadette and Michelle RYAN of Charleville, Co. Cork, were the national winners. They were nominated by Mike STAISINUAS from IL after his car broke down outside their home on the way to a family wedding in Kinsale. Eighteen-year-old Michelle, who was due to sit her last exam that day, invited them to her home, gave them a key so they could come and go during the day and helped them make contact with the right people so they could get back on the road. Michael said,a "Michelle and Bernadette turned a stressful situation into a pleasant memory." Nine regional finalists, also receiving 2005 awards were Paul & Marie GALLAGHER and staff, Nesbitt Arms Hotel, Ardara, Co. Donegal; Bertie and Mary HERNON, Hernon's B&B, Rossaveal, Co. Galway; Peadar and Mary HEVEY, Boyne Valley B&B, Slane, Co. Meath; Margaret MAGUIRE, Drumcondra, Dublin 9; Paul McGRATH, Killaloe, Co. Clare; Dominic MURPHY, Ballyhaunis, Co. Mayo; Aidan RYAN, The Berkeley Court Hotel, Dublin 4; Trevor TONER, Lacken House, Kilkenny; Thomas Roche WILLIAMS, Cloughjordan, Co. Tipperary. Regionally, the South-West received 30% of nominations, with Dublin next at 18%. The West and North-West received 16% and 12% respectively. The lowest level of nominations was for the South-East and Shannon. This national spread reflects the dispersal of visitors throughout Ireland. For further information please see www.irishwelcomeawards.com.