LC,
Like some of the others here, I think you have nothing to apologize for. As for perpetuating stereotypes, well, think on this; most Irish folks share Irish jokes.
Jews laugh at most Jewish-based humor (why do you think Jackie Mason is so popular?).
Black people laugh at CERTAIN black jokes (Chris Rock - he tells the truth!), and even have seized the "N" word for socializing (which I find, as a white guy who fights for civil rights, confusing, as I find ALL racial/sexual/ethnic slurs revolting).
Stereotypes exist because, at a certain point, they're all based on truth. I happen to find that most Irish people love to drink, fight, and procreate - not necessarily in that order.
Let's face facts - it ain't stereotypes that are wrong. There are no "bad" stereotypes, as there are no "bad" words. It's the MIND who uses them you oughta be concerned about.
I myself know I'm whitey-the-blue-eyed-devil-paddy-o-mick-honky-cracker-male-chauvenist-pope-follower-Antichrist-injun-frog-Canuck-faggot-queen-swinger-bender, and you know something else? It doesn't bother me.
If it bothers someone else, too f**king bad. My self worth, and ALL of ours, are a dictatorship, not a democracy. There's only one vote that counts and it's our own.
You did nothing wrong, and I think you did everything right.
Peace and love (and if anyone has any problems with the content of this post, PM ME! Leave LC alone!)
Scot