"Taste of Ireland" event marks half way to St. Patrick's Day

MILWAUKEE-For many it's a significant time on the calendar. It's half way to St. Patrick's Day and the same people who bring Milwaukee the annual Blue Mound parade each March are marking the occasion with a taste of Ireland.

On Thursday, September 18Th, chefs from around the state will serve up their best version of Irish Stew.

The event begins at 6 p.m. at the Turner Hall Ballroom downtown. Proceeds will go to three local schools.

The Ancient Order of Hibernians is hosting the event and has selected Saint Rose, Notre Dame Middle and Nativity Jesuit schools as the beneficiaries.

CBS 58 News stopped by Burke's Irish Castle on Blue Mound where Chef James Barnes is making his special Guinness Beer stew with beef and carrots and parsnips.

\"You have to put love in your food, \" Chef Barnes declared while stirring up his special creation.

\"You have the bitterness of the beer but then the sweetness of the carrots and parsnip. So, it balances it out. It came out really well.\"

If you do attend, please be sure to say hello to CBS 58 News Anchor Michele McCormack who will also be on hand to celebrate her families Derry, Sligo, and Wicklow, Ireland roots and begin the count down to one of the favorite times of year.