SNIPPET: In the May-June 1998 issue of Dublin's "Ireland of the Welcomes" magazines readers again shared their thoughts on the "Emerald Isle." Tucker ASHLEY, Perry Point, MD, wrote: 'During one period of my life I rented a room from an Irish couple from Co. Cork in the seaside town of Ocean City, NJ. The warmth and wisdom they extended to me during that period continues to influence me in 'matters of the heart.' I do have Irish blood in my veins, but until I had experienced Irish people first-hand I didn't believe I had a soul! I recently received your Sept-Oct 1997 IOTW issue. The photograph on page 24 (John CARLOS, Inisbofin Island) is a small masterpiece. The articles are illuminating. Hopefully, someday in the foreseeable future, I'll be hoisting a toast to my 'Irish' parents at Oliver St. John GOGARTY pub in Temple Bar, Dublin. I'll probably have a copy of 'Dubliners' under my arm ...." Catherine RYAN, Narrabeen, NSW, Australia shared: 'Your article on Michael COLLINS, 'Delirium of the Brave,' Jan-Feb 1997 revived happy memories of my last visit to Dublin. I was residing in London at that time and had planned an Irish holiday with my English friend, with particular interest in viewing the paintings by Sir John LAVERY which were on exhibition there. On arrival in Dublin we wasted no time and at the earliest opportunity we went to visit the Art Gallery. On a general tour of their wide and delightful collection our interest focused on a small painting donated by the EARL of DROGHEDA, who was a patron of the Gallery then, as far as I can recall. My friend was particularly interested as at the time she was private secretary to the Earl who was Director of the Opera House at Covent Garden. When we finally reached the hall containing the COLLINS painting we were devastated to find it closed to the public for cataloguing . As we were leaving, I had a 'brain-wave' and sought out the guard on duty and informed him of my friend's background. To our delight the gallery was opened up and we had a private viewing of almost VIP status. It made our day! All the best wishes with the publication of your delightful magazine." Katie PERREAULT, Schenectady, NY, penned: "The Jan-Feb 1998 issue was filled with messages and memories of my heritage and wonderful visit to Ireland in 1985. I am descended from the FURLONG, DOYLE, and SINNOTs of Co. Wexford. Although four generations removed from a Wexford birth, I was raised on stories of the 'troubles' and was thrilled to visit Vinegar Hill while in Ireland. My ancestors' stories of Enniscorthy and New Ross were passed down through my grandmother, as a result I read with great interest 'For the Green Again.' I further enjoyed the article on the Avoca Handweavers. The pictures of Powerscourt awoke vivid memories of a beautiful June afternoon I spent there." Pamela CAROLAN, Sherman, TX, wrote: "I thoroughly enjoyed the article 'With a Whistle and a Prayer' in the Nov-Dec 1997 issue. Before reading the story, I glanced at the picture on page 35 and the first thought that came to mind was that I had been in that room. When I read the caption that the picture was of Rev. Gary HASTINGS playing his flute in Matt MOLLOY's pub, my suspicions were confirmed! My husband and I visited Ireland for the first time in March 1997. Westport was one of the most enjoyable stops of our tour. Of course, Galway, Ballyshannon, Kilkenny and Kinsale were delightful, too. We arrived in Westport mid-afternoon and began a walking tour of the town. One of the first people to welcome us as we strolled along, was the local Catholic priest. Later on we came across a rather colourful character called Mick LAVELL, who invited us to come along to Matt MOLLOY's where there would be 'trad' music that evening. Unfortunately, it was after 11 pm by the time the musicians began playing and the backroom was completely filled up with cigarette smoke. The music was wonderful but our burning eyes forced us to leave earlier than we wanted.... We are making our second trip to Ireland in January 1998 with a group from Sherman's Austin College. This time we will be staying with a family in Dublin for two weeks and taking classes at Trinity College. We anticipate having another delightful experience that we will cherish for years to come." (My comment: I believe there is now some type of smoking ban in Ireland.) Colleen O. STOLPE, Bozrah, CT, shared: .... "The Nov-Dec 1997 issue contained an article 'The Queenstown Story' .... when I saw the picture of St. Colman's Cathedral it bought to mind the trip to Ireland that my husband Brett and I took in Feb 1994. We had been trying to conceive a child for seven years prior to that trip without success. One of the areas we toured was Cobh, which we enjoyed, especially St. Colman's Cathederal. It was absolutely beautiful! After we spent some time there it was time to get back on the tour bus. The bus driver asked everyone if they had made a wish. We were kind of confused. He then explained that every time you go into a church that you have never been in before, you are supposed to make a wish. My wish was have a baby by the end of the year. Our daughter Erin was born in November. We look forward to bringing her to Ireland and hope she enjoys it as much as we did!"