The Ladybirds supported Chris Watson, Assistant Manager of Bob Evans in LaVale, Maryland, on the occasion of the second annual Hooley Plunge into the waters of Lake Habeeb at Rocky Gap Lodge & Golf Resort. The event raised money through pledges to reduce the debt at the Cumberland YMCA Recreation Center. The Ladybirds solicited pledges in advance of the plunge into the water.

Several of the Ladybirds went out to Rocky Gap the morning of the plunge into the water to register Chris Watson and to submit the funds from the pledges that had been collected for the YMCA. Also, the “plungers” were each given a T-shirt to commemorate the event. In March, the weather was obviously too cold to be going into the water, though every year various groups sponsor such activities as fundraisers. The press was on hand to take pictures, and the State Police were there, as well, with a helicopter in case of an emergency situation.

The Ladybirds in Green, Centerville 2006

The plunge was actually the kick-off of the annual St. Paddy’s Day Hooley, one of many hooleys in which the Ladybirds have participated. They have entertained from the stage at the Embassy Theater and at Kelly Station Bar and Grill, to mention a couple of venues. For the 2006 Hooley, however, the Ladybirds concentration was primarily on the fundraiser for the YMCA and the collaboration with Bob Evans Restaurant and their Assistant Manager, Chris Watson!

The Ladybirds always enjoy the upbeat music of the Irish. They usually include such songs as: Shanty Town, McNamara’s Band, Harrigan, When Irish Eyes Are Smiling, Too-Ra-Loo-Ra-Loo-Ra,and Hooray for Paddy, Paddy in their repertoire for the Saint Patrick’s Day celebrations.

A Patriotic Rehearsal

A couple of the pictures shown here show the chorus in concert celebrating St. Patrick’s Day and also a rehearsal of the group preparing for their Hooley concert the year they performed at the Embassy Theater.