Dublin, Ohio St. Patrick's Day 2010

Dublin, Ohio is on a list.  The list.  Of the top 10 places to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in the USA.  (It is highly possible that the information you have just read was completely fabricated by the author, who despite a tendency to take creative license with some pertinent facts, should be trusted with utmost confidence in all other matters.)

March, though not one of my favorite months of the year, certainly ranks near the top twelve.  It  is the celebration of all things green.  And Irish.  And St. Patricky.  And few do up the celebration of St. Patty better than city of Dublin, Ohio.

This year’s St. Patrick’s Day celebrations are slated for March 13.  A pancake breakfast sponsored by the Lions Club will be held at Sells Middle School 150 W. Bridge St. from 7:00 am until 11:00 am.  ($6 Adults and $4 children under 12)

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"A pint of plain is your only man." - from The Workman's Friend by Flann O'Brien

Arthur Guinness probably did a lot of cool stuff and he should be remembered accordingly, but for most of us there are only two accomplishments that really stand out: The Guinness Book of World Records and the beer that bears his name.  Especially the beer.

Guinness, aka the “Black Stuff”, aka the “Pint of Plain”, is reason enough to visit Dublin, Ireland, but it’s not the only one. By the way, to those of you that have thought Guinness Draught too heavy, it only has 126 calories per 12 ounce pour – compare that to 148 in Corona or 140 in Budweiser (110 in Bud Light) and it seems like a pretty justifiable amount considering it’s a beer you can actually taste. Open one, I’ll wait… Read More »

Exploring Ireland's Scenic Countryside

I don’t believe you drive through Ireland so much as you hurtle through.  Even a relatively slow 30 miles an hour can feel very fast when the roads are narrow and lined with stone fences and hedgerows.  Forget those “wrong side” of the road fears; driving in Ireland is the best way to see the country, experience the craic and enjoy an authentic Irish holiday.

10)  Know what you are renting. I know that sounds simple, but cars-and even vans- are different in Europe.  For example, we rented a “7 passenger vehicle” for our last trip.  When we arrived we found that we had what was, in essence, a small station wagon.  There was no way it was going to hold 3 adults, two children in car seats and our luggage.  We had no choice but to upgrade at the rental agency and pay in euros- which almost tripled our rental costs.  Do your research online and speak to a representative in Ireland before you make that reservation.  Another important note: gas is sold by the liter and costs about 3 times more than in the US.

9) Learn how to drive a manual transmission.  The majority of rental cars are manual transmission.  There are a few automatic transmission rentals available but they cost quite a bit more and can sell out quickly.  Remember, you will be on the “wrong side” of the car.  It really isn’t difficult to get used to shifting with your left hand.  Many rental agencies offer a learner tag.  This is a paper with a large L on it; it means learner.   The hardest thing to remember is… Read More »

Looking for a great way to kick off your summer vacation in Ohio?  How about some golf?  Oh, I’m not talking about playing.  Summer is supposed to be relaxing and fun.  Futile endeavors chasing elusive and errant dimpled balls across lushly manicured fields is not relaxing!

Watching a professional do it can be.

Island Green Photo by nsaplayer

The PGA‘s Memorial Tournament marks it’s 34th anniversary at Muirfield Village Golf Club this June 2009.  The tournament, a vision of it’s founder, course designer and Columbus’ own Jack Nicklaus kicks off Monday June 1 with the practice rounds.  The official tournament begins Thursday June 4 and runs through Sunday June 7.

Golf Bags Photo by nsaplayer

The Memorial Tournament is a perfect opportunity to get out and enjoy a few rounds of golf without the stress of having to make any of the shots yourself.  You can walk along side some of the biggest names in golf: Vijay Singh, Jim Furyk, Anthony Kim, Padraig Harrington and Defending Champion Kenny Perry.  (That’s just a smattering.  Traditionally, The Memorial is a favorite among many on the PGA tour.  Some of the past winners include Fred Couples, K.J. Choi, Ernie Els and Tiger Woods.)

Word on the street is that the Golden Bear himself, Jack Nicklaus, will be playing in the Double Skins Game scheduled for Wednesday after the morning practice round.

The Golden Bear--Jack Nicklaus

Badges for The Memorial Tournament are available in a variety of price ranges to suit your needs.  Three-day practice round badges start at just $30.  A patron badge for the week is only $155.  *All children under the age of 12 are admitted free with a ticketed adult.  (I kind of feel like I’m making money under this arrangement.)  Check The Memorial Tournament website for further details and to purchase the ticket that best suits your needs.

Muirfield Village Golf Club is located at 5750 Memorial Drive in Dublin, OH.  Parking can be a bit of an issue so plan accordingly.  The Memorial Tournament website has done a very nice job in listing available parking areas and how and where to access them.

Defending Champion Kenny Perry

There are plenty of beverage and snack carts on the course however, sleeping on the course is discouraged.  Lodging and dining options are plentiful in the area.  Get a room!

(Photos courtesy creative commons by nsaplayer and thememorialtournament.com)