Irish Heritage Fest Makes Strong Return

November 2013 Boston’s hometown VOL. 24 #11 journal of Irish culture. $1.50 Worldwide at All contents copyright © 2013 Boston Neighborhood News, Inc. bostonirish.com BIR cites five Irish Heritage Fest makes strong return

By Sean Smith for Boston Dorchester’s Irish Heritage Festival enjoyed a successful return on October 13, as Irish Honors crowds of Irish culture lovers The Boston Irish took in music and dance per- Reporter hosted its formances, browsed through fourth annual Bos- various vendors’ booths, and ton Irish Honors on socialized in the warmth of a Fri., Oct. 25, at the picture-perfect autumn day. Seaport Hotel on the The festival, which is orga- South Boston wa- nized and run by community terfront. The event, volunteers and supported which marked the largely through local busi- 23nd anniversary of nesses, went on hiatus last the BIR, drew more fall, when its leadership felt than 300 persons a need to regroup after the to the mid-day lun- event’s first two years. This cheon. year, the festival was forced In his remarks for to relocate to the Florian Hall the program, event area of Hallet Street because of construction taking place chairman Edmund at the original site in Adams F. Murphy III of Put- Therese Murray Corner. nam Investments, By early afternoon, the called the luncheon scene was bustling, as festi- “a welcome moment valgoers of all ages lingered to embrace and cel- in Florian Hall, or strolled ebrate our shared around the hall’s parking lot heritage by honoring or the McKeon Post AmVets men and women and lot across the street, while families who embody Irish songs and tunes of all the best qualities of varieties – performed by a ros- the Boston Irish,” a ter of acts almost exclusively A time to dance at the fair. Photo by Sean Smith reference to the Bos- Robert Mulligan local – sounded from three ton Irish Honorees: different stages, and groups months ago. Several speakers One of the festival co- Strong,” as students from Massachusetts Sen- of young dancers jigged and and performers paid tribute organizers, Mairin Ui Cheide, local Irish dance schools ate President Therese capered in front of apprecia- to victims and others whose underscored the theme when – wearing yellow T-shirts Murray; Robert Mul- tive audiences. lives had been most directly she officially opened the day’s emblazoned with “Dorches- ligan, Gerald Mulli- But this year’s festival also affected by the tragedy, and to events by singing “Amazing ter Strong” above a picture gan, the late Joseph had a solemn aspect to it, the dedication and bravery of Grace” – in hope and respect, of ghillies (Irish soft shoes) Mulligan & Family; as an occasion to celebrate first responders. Around the she said, “for all that has hap- – processed from in front of and the late noted the community spirit and festival grounds, the “Boston pened and all that we as a city Florian Hall to the McKeon Boston attorney John resilience that had been on Strong” slogan was almost as have endured.” lot stage, waving pom-poms P. Driscoll, Jr. display in the wake of the Bos- conspicuous as Irish phrases In the early afternoon, the and carrying signs with Said Chairman ton Marathon bombings six or Boston sports team logos. festival staged “Dorchester (Continued on page 6) Joseph Mulligan Murphy: “Our honorees are distinguished for their dedication to public service and A Walsh vs. a Connolly for Boston’s new mayor excellence in their By Gintautas Dumcius in 20 years, after Mayor chosen fields. Their News Editor Thomas Menino became the stories remind us Before the gloves came off first Italian-American to hold of how far we have late in the Boston mayoral the office. Both candidates come in this ‘city on race – City Councillor At- also identify themselves as a hill’ – a place that Large John Connolly pointing progressive Democrats. continues to be our to negative mailers from an During the campaign, the chosen home. They outside group trashing his up- Reporter asked the two can- Gerald Mulligan connect us to our bringing and state Rep. Marty didates what their plans ancestors and the Walsh accusing the Connolly would be for Dorchester and difficult, but coura- campaign of phone calls test- Mattapan once they got into geous decisions they ing negative messages about office next year. Walsh, who made to set sail or him – the candidates more would be the first mayor take flight for a new often than not agreed with One will be the new mayor: John Connolly and Marty from Dorchester since John land of opportunity.” each other on the issues. Walsh Photo by Chris Lovett B. Hynes in the 1950s, said A package of photos Voters will go to the polls he would target Codman and stories about the next Tuesday to choose be- from Savin Hill for 16 years, council’s Education Commit- Square and the Blue Hill Av- Honors luncheon between the two, who have while Connolly is an attorney tee. If either one is elected, enue area, which continually gins on Page 17. focused on their biographies: and former teacher who has control of the top job in City struggle with high unemploy- John P. Driscoll, Jr. Walsh has been a state served on the City Council Hall will return to an Irish- ment and lack of opportunity. 1932-2009 lawmaker and labor leader for six years and chaired the American for the first time (Continued on page 6)

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Allston branch now open! Page 2 November 2013 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com

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By Ed Forry important events that we will observe,” BIR Publisher the theatre leader said. “Next year is our Leaders of Ireland’s legendary Abbey 110th anniversary; 2015 is the 150th Theatre visited Boston last month for anniversary of the birth of our founder, the second in a series of annual visits WB Yeats; and the big one is 2016 – the to develop support for Ireland’s national centenary of the Easter Rising. The Ab- theatre. bey was in the midst of the debate about Irish Senator Fiach Mac Conghail, Irish culture that went on during the who serves as the Abbey’s director founding of the new Irish state.” (“Stiúrthóir”) was hosted by Tom and MacConghail said the foundation Shelly O’Neill, who together chair a also supports an extensive educational Boston chapter in support of the Ab- component, and partners with schools bey Theatre Foundation. The O’Neills in Ireland to bring art to students. “We were joined by Mac Conghail and Abbey would like to do this with the great city Theatre chairman Bryan McMahan at of Boston,” he told the gathering. “In a dinner for some 40 guests at #9 Park partnership with the Boston chapter, we At the October 28 Boston reception at #9 Park in support of the Abbey The- atre Foundation are (l-r): Abbey director Senator Fiach Mac Conghail, Jay on Beacon Hill. are planning to partner with schools at a cost of about $100,000 over the next three Cashman, and Boston chapter organizers Shelly O’Neill and Tom O’Neill. MacConghail said that at the Abbey, Photo by Ed Forry “We try to reflect and tell stories from years. We hope to build up to the great centenary anniversary in April 2016.” Ireland in an entertaining way, and citizens, and present world renowned of the most significant theatres of the we’re proud to continue that legacy. The The Abbey has established a 110th An- niversary Fund “to ensure we continue theatre both in Ireland and the US. “The twentieth century.” connection between the Abbey Theatre Abbey Theatre is a key cultural institu- The Abbey Theatre Foundation is a and Boston goes back to 1911, when our to fuel the flame our founders lit over a century ago,” the foundation states on tion for Ireland: one that makes the New York-based 501 © (3) non-profit first-ever international tour started at nation a richer place in which to live, organization that supports the work of the old Plymouth Theatre. Last year, its website. “This flame has often been sustained in the past by the generosity and one which acts internationally as an the Abbey Theatre in Ireland and in the the first chapter of the Abbey Theatre ambassador for the country, highlighting United States. Contributions to the Ab- Foundation was established in Boston, and passion of our American friends. With your support we can develop play- the characteristics that make Ireland bey Theatre Foundation are deductible so we’re making history together again. unique. Internationally it is seen as one to the extent allowed by law In the next three years there are three wrights, support theatre artists, engage ICCNE to host Mass. Memories Road Show on Sat., Nov. 16 “The Irish Immigrant Experience”

The effect on viewers was immediate… England in Canton on Sat., Nov. 16, from “Stop, I need to take a closer look!” The 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. photo accompanying this article greeted The Mass. Memories Road Show visitors at a recent Irish festival. The (MMRS) is the creation of the University 1939 study of Roxbury’s Emerald Isle Archives & Special Collections Depart- Orchestra elicited many comments: ment at the Joseph P. Healey Library, Older folks remembered the Irish UMass Boston. To date, this project has dance halls in Dudley Square; some digitized more than 4,000 photos and recognized band members in the photo; stories from across the state. younger viewers picked out other de- The Irish Ancestral Research As- tails – the two girls who must have sociation (TIARA), The Eire Society of been sisters; and one twenty-something Boston, and the Consulate General of musician commented on the group’s Ireland Boston are joining the host, the slogan “For Music That Satisfies – Call ICCNE, in sponsoring the show. These Prospect 1046-J.” Irish groups are inviting participants to Not everyone has an Irish band mem- reflect on how immigrant experiences ber in the family, but a large number have influenced lives of Massachusetts Photo courtesy of the University Archives & Special Collections Department, of Massachusetts residents have Irish residents. Attendees may choose from Joseph P. Healey Library, University of Massachusetts Boston: Mass. Memories ancestors. On Nov. 16, everyone with one to three photographs to be scanned Road Show Collection. a connection to Irish immigration is and included in the archives at UMass invited to share stories at “The Mass. Boston and online at massmemories.net. advice from professional archivists and CD or flashdrive. More Information: Memories Road Show – The Irish Im- Contributors can also share “the story historians on dating and caring for their massmemories.net; Questions: mass- migrant Experience.” The event will be behind the photos” on video, have their family photos. [email protected]; TIARA office 617- held at the Irish Cultural Centre of New own “keepsake photo” taken, and receive Bring 1-3 Photos in original format, 244-3050. John Boyle O’Reilly exhibit to open at BC on Tues., Nov. 12 The John J. Burns Library and The Center for Irish Programs at Boston College in collaboration with The John Boyle O’Reilly Society of Ireland, The Charitable Irish Society, and The Eire Society of Boston will be opening an exhibit entitled “John Boyle O’Reilly, His Life and Work” on Tues., Nov. 12, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Burns Library. Opening remarks will be made by the Honorable Rich- Seven-year-old Jane ard Culhane, Lord Mayor of Drogheda and President of Richard of Dorches- the John Boyle O’Reilly Society of Ireland. A reception ter, who lost a leg in will follow. the Boston Marathon On the following day, at 4 p.m., there will be a presen- bombings, joined a tation on John Boyle O’Reilly, also in the Burns Library, group of St. Ann’s pa- where Sean Collins, curator of the 2013 O’Reilly exhibit rishioners in singing in Drogheda, will speak about O’Reilly’s early life and the National Anthem education and Professor Catherine B. Shannon will deliver before a Red Sox-Ti- gers American league a talk on O’Reilly as a prophet of American Progressivism pennant playoff game and Social Justice. at Fenway Park on For information, please contact Anne Del Vecchio via e- Sun., Oct. 13. mail at [email protected] or by telephone at 617-552-4470. Getty Images HONORING A TRADITION -- Celebrating the official start of the new court year, The Catholic Lawyers’ Guild of Boston came together recently to host Trinity College prof visits CM Irish class The Red Mass at The Cathedral of the Holy Cross. Among the more than 100 guests attending the luncheon which followed at The Seaport Hotel were Catholic Memorial’s Irish Study could visit, learn more about the pro- (left to right): Paul McNamara, President of The Catholic Lawyers’ Guild; The students welcomed Professor Mark gram, and speak with students. Most Reverend Robert P. Deeley, J.C.D, Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese Hennessey of Trinity College, Dublin, While at CM, he planned to give the of Boston; luncheon guest speaker Carl A. Anderson, Supreme Knight of the Ireland, to their campus on Tues., Oct. 29. Irish study students an introduction to Knights of Columbus; and Maura S. Doyle, Vice President of The Catholic Professor Hennessey, who teaches the geography of Ireland from a histori- Lawyers’ Guild and Clerk of the Supreme Judicial Court for The County of geography at Trinity’s School of Natural cal perspective. Suffolk. Established in 1987, The Catholic Lawyers’ Guild of Boston fosters a Science, is on a tour of the United States CM’s Irish Studies is the only known sense of wisdom, community and guidance to Catholic lawyers as they apply ands when he learned about Catholic program of its kind at the secondary level their faith to the ever-changing challenges of professional versus personal life. Memorial School’s Irish Study program, in Massachusetts; it has been offered to R. J. Donovan photo he contacted the school and asked if he students for the past seven years. Page 4 November 2013 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com Publisher’s Notebook Commentary The stirring story For Ireland and the Bay State, of a team and its city a boom in medical device business By Ed Forry Irish American Partnership study shows exciting growth As I write these words, the marvelous run of this year’s Boston Red Sox is just a few hours shy of its By Joe Leary economic growth, and so has invested heavily in this conclusion. Special to the BIR sector. There are over 200 medical device companies Ireland is slowly emerging from its economic disas- located in Ireland and the medical technology sector Tonight, our Olde Town Team will take to the field employs 25,000 people directly.” at Fenway for a World Series Game 6, leading three ter and one of the main reasons is the medical device business led by Boston Scientific, Medtronic, and 200 Similar businesses tend to cluster together and this games to two, and Boston awaits in hopeful antici- other medical device companies located in Galway and is very true of the medical device business. Galway pation that tonight’s game will be a victory, even as throughout the country. and Boston are good examples. The establishment of images come to mind of one more Duck Boat Victory A just-released research study financed by the Boston Scientific and Medtronic in Galway in the 1990s parade on the streets of downtown Boston before this Irish American Partnership, is responsible for the growth of the medical device week comes to an end. Or maybe not. sponsored by the Regenera- cluster in Ireland, specifically in Galway. As you see these words, dear tive Medicine Institute of the The Boston area has similarly benefitted from the reader, you already know the National University of Ireland location of Boston Scientific. According to the Partner- outcome of these final innings Galway, and authored by Ms. ship/Galway study, Massachusetts and Ireland have Emma Wickham shows how the approximately 25,000 workers employed in medical of 2013 at the ball yard on the device manufacture, research, and development. Fens. Did they win Game 6? Or medical device business in both Galway and Massachusetts is Due to their respective sizes, Ireland’s medical device was there one more game on thriving due at least partly to employment is far more important. In fact, Ireland’s Halloween night? Was Boston “technology transfer” activities. total population (4.6 million) is less than that of Mas- the last team standing? Or are “Technology transfer” refers sachusetts (6.6 million). they celebrating in St. Louis? to collaborative programs in- Ireland was a manufacturing location until about At this moment, I cannot pre- volving government grants, uni- 15 years ago. Today, because its educational system dict what will come. But in these versity research, and industry. is producing such a highly trained work force, Ireland few remaining anxious hours, there’s some comfort Joe Leary Successful product-producing has become a favorite research area for new medical in looking back. To wit: research is typically licensed device investment. Boston Scientific, Stryker, Abbott, to an existing business in the Covidien, Johnson & Johnson, and Medtronic have all • Last March, on the eve of opening day. I tucked set up research and development facilities in Ireland. a Red Sox season schedule into my wallet. The cover field for manufacture, promotion, and distribution. The goal, of course, is more jobs for the local economy. And today, Massachusetts and Ireland have count- read, “162 Chances to Restore the Faith.” What Taxpayer-supported research programs are used by less agencies and organizations dedicated to assisting seemed a pipe dream last winter, some copywriter’s all governments throughout the world to create new universities and companies specifically in the medical fantasy, had indeed become a reality. Faith in this business and bring huge health benefits to all people. device business. team has been restored! Massachusetts and Ireland, with their combined In Ireland foremost among them are the Regenera- • As a 15 years season ticket owner, I struggled not accumulation of extraordinary universities, willing tive Medicine Institute in the National University of to cancel this year, reasoning that last year we paid governments, and forward-thinking companies are Galway, Trinity Biomedical Institute at Trinity Col- major league prices for a minor league team. Many natural candidates for this collaboration, and Gal- lege, and the Irish government’s Enterprise Ireland. season packages were cancelled, and I decided to not way and Boston have benefitted immensely from the The Galway Technology Center helps small business programs. in the county. The Irish Medical Device Association and renew our box seats behind home plate. But since the Massachusetts Medical Device Industry Council season-ticket holders are promised playoff seats, I The medical device category covers a wide variety of product areas. The list includes artificial joints and are both dedicated to bringing new business to their gave in and negotiated less expensive grandstand prosthetic limbs, laboratory tools, even large X-ray areas and assisting existing business where needed. seats in left field. What a surprise: This was a win- machines and MRI scanners. It also includes cardio- “Technology Transfer” is the key to all these promo- ning team right from the start, and the new, cheaper vascular products such as pacemakers, stents to open tional activities, and the process of government funding, seats were better than the old ones. heart valves, and defibrillators. University research, and licensed business participa- • On Memorial Day, the team beat Tampa Bay in The major companies in the business are Johnson & tion is the central focus. No good idea, no successful the morning , an upbeat beginning to what would Johnson, GE Healthcare, Medtronic, Boston Scientific, product-producing research will go unrewarded with become a dreadful day. Soon came news of two Abbott, Stryker ,and Becton Dickinson. all this support in place. explosions at the Marathon finish line, followed by According to Enterprise Ireland, a business promot- The medical device industry is well served by the ing agency of the Irish government, 80 percent of the professionalism shown by the leaders of both Ireland the awful news of lives lost and limbs blown apart. and Massachusetts and their economies will benefit Our baseball team decamped that afternoon for stents used globally are made in Ireland. Quoting from the Irish American Partnership/Univer- from this effort for many years. And perhaps more three days in Cleveland, returning on April 19 to a sity of Galway study: “Ireland is now one of the largest importantly, the people of Ireland, Massachusetts, and tumultuous and monumental pre-game ceremony exporters of medical devices in the world, with an export throughout the world will be healthier and live longer that brought the entire community together and, value of 7.2 billion in 2010. The Irish government has because of new advances in the industry. in retrospect became the pivotal moments of a city identified the medical device sector as a key driver for and region that came together as if we were all one. “Boston Strong” was the anthem, but #34, David Ortiz, rallied us all with his simple declaration-“This Off the Bench is our f---!!! City!” Our Red Sox season would become the salve that has helped heal so many wounds, • Father Sean Connor, a priest who has minis- Confronting doubt about God’s existence tered to the grieving Richard family in his former Dorchester parish, helped to orchestrate a compelling By James W. Dolan fulfillment. Many saints have struggled to overcome moment at Fenway during the playoffs: a group of Special to the Reporter their doubts. It would be disingenuous not to question the existence While faith may ebb and flow, it can be reinforced by young children from St. Ann parish in Dorchester contemplation and prayer. For me, the very existence sang the National Anthem, and they were joined of God or the validity of those institutions that purport to represent him. To be “born again” into a complete of things, the order and beauty of the universe, the by seven-year-old Jane Richard, who walked on her and permanent acceptance of God, while perhaps com- goodness I see in people, our often-flimsy efforts to prosthetic left leg to stand with them at second base. fortable, seems more emotional than rational. identify truth, do justice and love one another provide What a moment! Doubt is the natural compelling evidence of intelligent design. That life as Six months after the Marathon Day tragedy, product of an inquisitive we know it is the result of some cataclysmic eruption Jane and her family continue to heal, even as they mind. Courage is overcom- followed by a series of accidents and coincidences seems struggle with the loss of little Martin Richard. But ing fear – without the one, more preposterous to me than belief. while little Jane walked onto the field on her new the other is suspect. So, too, I understand how others come to a different conclu- artificial limb, the national TV audience never saw it. faith is the affirmation of sion, but I fail to grasp how they cope with the absence hope – without doubt, it is of meaning and purpose in an accidental world inhab- Fox was in a commercial, and the scene was ignored ited by creatures so fundamentally flawed. Perhaps by the commercial interests of MLB and the Fox TV blind acceptance. Some too easily dismiss believers lack the strength to face such a profoundly network. Too bad. or condemn those whose distressing reality, or perhaps, through faith, they see But still, as the ballpark sings after every win, doubts lead them to disbe- another reality beckoning beyond. you gotta Love That Dirty Water – Boston You’re lief, yet many intelligent How does a loving God react to those who either My Home! and thoughtful persons deny him or are unable to decide? I suspect that a James W. Dolan are atheists. They look at sincere and conscientious atheist or agnostic has es- science and the chaos and sentially the same path to salvation as believers. The Boston Irish evil so evident in the world and determine that belief two great commandments are to love God and love is a myth. They conclude that we are on our own in your neighbor; if you are sincere about doing one, you a world without intelligent design or purpose beyond necessarily do the other. REPORTER what evolution and science has, or will, reveal. A nonbeliever who truly loves his neighbor construc- The Boston Irish Reporter is published monthly by: In an odd way, believers and non believers alike tively loves and pleases God. Conversely, one cannot Boston Neighborhood News, Inc., really love God while despising or ignoring his neighbor. 150 Mt. Vernon St., Suite 120, Dorchester, MA 02125 follow the same path to a chasm beyond which there are two paths: one to faith, the other to denial. Often They are different sides of the same coin. [email protected] www.bostonirish.com Sadly, there are many professed believers who Mary C. Forry, President (1983-2004) relying on the same evidence, they go in different direc- tions. Believers use hope in a guiding spirit to bridge overlook their duty to love, assist, and care for the Edward W. Forry, Publisher poor, sick, and homeless by supporting programs to Thomas F. Mulvoy Jr., Managing Editor the gap to faith. Atheists see science and evolution William P. Forry, Contributing Editor as the way forward. Both make a leap of faith since help them – like universal health care. Also, there are Peter F. Stevens, Contributing Editor neither can say beyond a reasonable doubt that they many nonbelievers who feel a moral obligation to feed and house the poor and care for the sick and disabled. News Room: (617) 436-1222 have achieved certainty Agnostics simply stop at the chasm. They see the Which is more pleasing in the eyes of God? Ads : (617) 436-1222 evidence supporting both sides as inconclusive and are I believe a merciful and all-knowing God will em- Fax: (617) 825-5516 [email protected] unable to commit. Their position is rational and honest brace non-believers, unable to cross the faith barrier, On The Web at www.bostonirish.com but it underscores the limitations of the intellect: It will who in good conscience and a sense of morality give Date of Next Issue: December, 2013 only take us so far, and for them the chasm is too wide. of themselves in service to their neighbors. “Whatever Deadline for Next Issue: Thursday, November 21 at 2 p.m. Embracing hope and choosing faith does not eliminate you did for these, the least of my brethren, you did for me,” will be their welcome. Published monthly in the first week of each month. doubt. It remains an unwelcome companion, at times The Boston Irish Reporter is not liable for errors appearing in advertisements beyond more apparent than others. For some it is a constant the cost of the space occupied by the error. The right is reserved by The Boston Irish effort to confront the world with all its discord while James W. Dolan is a retired Dorchester District Court Reporter to edit, reject, or cut any copy without notice. clinging to the one thing that offers purpose, hope, and judge who now practices law. Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com November 2013 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 5 Point of View OF POLITICIANS AND PUGILISTS Echoes of the Past in Boston Politics and Sports

By Peter F. Stevens Jan. 5, 1885, his ascent represented writes: “…Michael and Catherine Sul- BIR Staff a once unthinkable development in a livan lived in a cluster of tenements…off Two Boston Irish names at the top of region notable for its antipathy toward East Concord Street near the intersec- the 2013 mayoral ticket – What’s old Irish Catholics. Boston’s changing elec- tion of Washington Street…when they in the city’s politics is new again. In a torate in the 21st century will similarly welcomed their first child into the world Boston whose demographics are shift- bring ethnic, racial, and gender change [in October 1858].” That child was John ing, the fact that the next mayor will to City Hall. L. Sullivan, part of the immigrant tide be a man with Hibernian bloodlines has During the same time that Hugh that, according to the famed Minister dismayed some in the media and some O’Brien was changing Boston politics Theodore Parker, was turning Boston in the neighborhoods. It is an unfair forever, another Boston Irishman was into “the Dublin of America.” swipe at both Marty Walsh and John changing the future of sports and ce- Although Sullivan’s first love was Connolly. Both are smart and capable lebrity. The incredible turnaround of baseball, his hands were meant for the candidates who genuinely want to serve the Red Sox this year and their fans’ ring, not the diamond nor the manual all residents. exuberant bond with John Farrell’s labor or trades that were the sole means Unlike days of yore, the once-vaunted bearded band testify to just how deeply of survival for so many young Boston “Boston Irish Machine” did not propel ingrained sports are in and around Irishmen unless they had a way up and either man to the mayoral final. They Boston. We sometimes admire or even out through a combination of brains, emerged from the scramble to follow revere the athletes, sometimes scorn ambition, and a dose of luck. In Sul- Tom Menino fair and square. Demo- them, sometimes both. It can be rightly livan’s case, his way out was his brutal graphics, however, are destiny. Menino said that Boston, cradle of liberty and so punching power. broke the century-old Irish grip on the much else, also gave birth to America’s Klein’s fast-flowing prose is both mayor’s office, serving longer than any first bonafide sports legend. Fittingly in compelling and erudite and offers a mayor in the city’s history. So, too, some many ways, this hero was Boston Irish tour-de-force story of the boxer whose day, will a minority or ethnic candidate to his literal core. His name was John domination of the heavyweight ring as well as a woman break through those L. Sullivan, aka “The Great John L.” was matched only by his larger-than- barriers. History reveals that the local and “The Boston Strong Boy.” life drinking, womanizing, and “police- Irish did the same back 130 years ago, In reading the just-released Strong began muscling their way into political blotter” exploits that were “godsends in 1884, and they did so because of Boy: The Life and Times of John L. Sulli- power and beyond. to a burgeoning newspaper industry.” demographics. van, America’s First Sports Hero, by the “I can lick any son-of-a-bitch in the Strong Boy (Globe Pequot Press) For nearly all of the 20th century, the local author and journalist Christopher world.” Those colorful words became vividly renders both the incredible saga Boston Irish had a stranglehold on the Klein, I could not help but consider just Sullivan’s legendary mantra. For a of America’s first superstar athlete and office of mayor. Not until Tom Menino how intertwined sports and society are. time, he could, and did, back them the saga of a Boston where local lad followed Ray Flynn in the post was the The author of Discovering the Boston up with his brutal fists. With them, John L. Sullivan symbolized the way near-monopoly of old sod descendants Harbor Islands: A Guide to the City’s he pounded his way out of Boston’s the Irish were muscling their way into truly broken. Yes, a man named Walsh Hidden Shores and The Die-Hard tenements, battered opponents as he power through the ballot box and, in or Connolly will be the next Irish name Sports Fan’s Guide to Boston, as well as bridged the bare-knuckled to gloved his case, the national stage. The nar- in the post, and either might prove so a contributor to the Boston Globe, The eras of boxing, and became the first rative gives readers ringside seats to popular that they will be returned to New York Times, National Geographic athlete in America’s annals to earn a the colorful tale of one of the country’s office – though matching Menino’s ten- Traveler, Harvard Magazine, Red Sox million dollars in a day when $1,000 a first Irish-American heroes, the birth ure poses a longshot for anyone. What Magazine, ESPN, Smithsonian, and year was a good salary. of the American sports media, and the is extremely unlikely is that the 2013 American Heritage, Klein has crafted a As with so many professional athletes country’s celebrity obsession with ath- mayoral race is marking the resurrec- rollicking look at the life and career of then and now, Sullivan came out of letes. In and around Boston, a look at tion of the “old-boyo” machine. Boston-bred Sullivan while also juxta- hardscrabble beginnings. His parents, the Irish roots of our sports obsessions Back in 1884, demographics had tilted posing America’s first sports superstar Michael and Catherine Kelly Sullivan, seems apt with the Red Sox’s banner toward the Boston Irish, carrying the and first Irish American sports hero were “Famine Irish” who had fled the year under the guidance of a manager city’s first Irish mayor, Hugh O’Brien, against the ethnic, cultural, religious, starvation and disease of the Great named Farrell. into office. When he was sworn in on and social history of Boston as the Irish Hunger and settled in Boston. Klein

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109 HIGH STREET, BOSTON MA 02110 Page 6 November 2013 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com The perfect gift for all It’s a Walsh vs. a Connolly Irish Americans everywhere. for Boston’s new mayor (Continued from page 1) Connolly said he would work to make it viable “Certainly, the poli- like to see entrepreneur- by partnering with an cies I’m talking about, ship centers that would appropriate non-profit to creating opportunity for help small businesses run and program the the- This knitted jacquard scarf is made exclusively in the Great Britain and is employment, those are grow and spur new busi- ater as it was utilized in available for the introductory price of $20.00, shipping $2.50 anywhere in the areas I’m targeting,” nesses, similar to what the 80’s under Executive USA. This scarf is 54” long and 7” wide with the pattern on both sides. he said. “And again, it he has proposed in Rox- Director Geri Guardino,” would be great to be from bury. The centers would Walsh wrote. “I will find Dorchester and be mayor, be housed on city-owned a way to bring back the Be Proud of Your Heritage, Be Proud of Your Home but I’m still going to be property, and focus on teen programs as well.” mayor of the whole city. providing incubator and Connolly proposed ex- Order from our website or send a cheque for $22.50 to: That’s the important office space, and access tending First Night, the to capital, mentors, and city’s New Year celebra- The Scarf Guy piece here. I’m going to represent West Roxbury, networking. He would tion, into a mid-winter 111 Crittenden Drive, Keswick, ON I’m going to represent also push for Diesel arts and culture festival L4P 4E3, Canada Hyde Park, represent Multiple Units on all of withthe Strand serving We have many other Irish scarves on our website www.the scarfguy.com Roxbury. I’ll be living and the commuter rail lines, as its home throughout sleeping in Dorchester, particularly on the Fair- January. “And when Wholesale enquiries welcome. but I’m going to represent mount Line, which runs I’m mayor, the Strand the whole city.” through Dorchester and will continue to host Mattapan. The move, important community which state officials are performances, such as attempting to implement the year-end concert of on the Fairmount Line, Dorchester-based Boston would bring the com- City Singers, and the muter rail closer to the recent Shakespeare-in- rapid transit Red Line. spired productions of the Both contenders also youth writing program responded to a Reporter 826 Boston,” he wrote. questionnaire that was Inside the Channel LivingLiving WellWell distributed to mayoral 7 studios a block away candidates during the from City Hall, the two preliminary. Asked about candidates jabbed at tackling gun violence each other in the last big in the community, Con- debate before the elec- nolly said he will focus tion on Tuesday night. withwith DiabetesDiabetes on community policing, “We don’t need another appoint a liaison for reen- lawyer in City Hall right try services, and expand now,” watching the purse the youth summer jobs strings, Walsh said in program to a year-round a shot at Connolly. The FREE effort. councillor asked Walsh Walsh said he will con- if he was willing to “bite LtH vene a discussion about off the arm” of unions, Hea “how to best approach a reference to a quote gang violence” on his first Walsh gave the Boston day in office. “Recogniz- Irish Reporter in 1999 in eDucation ing that many of the guns which the lawmaker said on Boston’s streets come he was not. Walsh noted event from bordering states that his father, who came like New Hampshire and over from Ireland, was a Maine, I will also be a laborer and he grew up strong advocate for better in a pro-labor household. gun laws and stepped- Despite that, “I’ve stood up enforcement efforts up to the unions on many against illegal gun traf- occasions,” Walsh said. ficking,” he wrote. But the debate, put The candidates were together by a media con- also asked how they sortium that included would make use of the local television and radio city-owned Strand The- stations, also had its atre in Uphams Corner. points of agreement. Both Walsh, who held his candidates said there is campaign kick-off at the systemic racism in the Strand, called it an “un- Boston Police Depart- tapped jewel. I know it ment, and institutional Bring your entire family for a day of fun. has had many challenges racism within the city of over the years, but I will Boston. exercise dance classes Health screenings * * * Irish Heritage Fest Games * Health & nutrition workshops * makes strong return (Continued from page 1) making this such a great various messages such as event and a success,” said Free snacks & giveaways “Thank You” and “Peace.” Weir. * * The children performed a The committee also celebratory dance, as par- gave an award of appre- ents, friends and other ciation to the Reynolds onlookers held cameras family, which was ac- and smartphones aloft cepted by Larry Reynolds to capture the moment. Jr., who was among the Saturday, November 16, 2013 Later, festival com- contingent of musicians mittee leaders gathered from the local Reynolds- on the stage to present Hanafin-Cooley Com- the first Larry Reynolds haltas Ceoltóirí Éireann 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Spirit Award to recognize branch providing music a person whose positive prior to the presentation. impact on the area Irish “I am truly humbled community evokes the by this generosity,” said 1135 Morton Street, Mattapan award’s namesake, the Reynolds, his voice crack- legendary musician and ing. “Thanks to all of you organizer who died last for your kindness, and the year. Ui Cheide, along love you always showed with colleagues John for my father.” RSVP to 617-533-2242 or [email protected] #LWWD13 O’Toole and Sean Weir, Reynolds then returned presented the award to to his seat next to his Walk-ins welcome Margaret Dalton, singer fellow musicians, picked with the popular band up his accordion, and the Erin’s Melody. band struck up another Sponsored by “I would like to thank set of tunes. the Irish Heritage Festi- Weir credited the vol- val committee and all the unteers and key assis- volunteers and all the city tance from City Hall for agencies for their help in making the day a hit. Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com November 2013 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 7 Page 8 November 2013 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com Boston Irish Reporter’s Here & There

By Bill O’Donnell An interesting sidelight to the appointments of ordered back to barracks, “All hell was breaking out!” Is Boston Famine Memorial Art, Or Some- women to the Irish diplomatic Corps, which are grow- Just hours later, the cadet ceremonial honor guard, thing Else? – Not for the first time, and certainly ing in number in recent years, is that prior to joining with President deValera and other Irish officials not for the last, the Boston Irish Famine Memorial the European Unions there was a marriage ban in onboard, headed for Washington on an Aer Lingus 707. has been gobsmacked as a justifiably reviled piece of the foreign service that precluded Irish women in top At the burial on the Arlington hillside in Novem- sculpture by critics. Once again we learn that they leadership positions. Ambassador Anderson noted in ber, the 26 cadet team members lined up close to the (writers, journalists, et al.) don’t like it. The latest a recent interview that “there were generations of Kennedy grave and in front of the assembled world and most celebrated of the naysayers is the Boston women whose talent and potential could not be fully leaders paid homage to the fallen president. Singularly Globe’s Pulitzer Prize-winning utilized” during the earlier years of the marriage ban. moving was the ceremonial finale that saw the cadets, art critic, Sebastian Smee. The new Irish envoy succeeds Michael Collins who in silent precision, bend their heads over their rifles Before Smee’s recent harsh has been named ambassador to France. in a final, silent salute. It was a moment in history words there was Fintan Rural Ireland Can Be A Lonely Place – We all that those who witnessed it will never forget. O’Toole of the Irish Times, know that life on the farm and in rural Irish homes New Irish History Edition Published – October who spilled his spleen on the can be lonely and isolated. That reality has been in Boston was a great month as ideal weather and downtown Boston statuary underlined by a new report showing that suicides, Red Sox victories eased us into fall. And October also for representing “pious cliches especially among males, have been growing at an heralded the publication of Michael Quinlin’s new and dead conventions.” alarming rate. Last year there were nearly 500 sui- and exciting “Irish Boston: A Lively Look at Boston’s The corner of Washington cides in the Republic of Ireland; that’s almost ten per Colorful Irish Past.” Mike has updated his initial Irish and School streets is home week mainly in the west. An IFA official in the Galway Boston volume with a fast-moving narrative provid- to the famine memorial and organization, the Galway East Life Support, is leading ing perspectives on Irish history and achievement its centrality on the Freedom an outreach program focusing on Irish males in rural and the names and lives of those who over the years Trail makes it hard to miss. settings in a suicide prevention campaign. A simple have made Boston and its environs the most uniquely Bill O’Donnell On a personal note ,that cor- phone call to a helpline number, the IFA suggests, can Irish city outside of Dublin. ner is one of my particular save a life or alert community groups that a problem “Irish Boston” is a book one can dip in and out of, favorites and has been since I initially came upon exists. Something along the lines of a visiting nurse or, instead, settle in for an afternoon read that covers it as a teenager, long before the now controversial program on a large scale in the west of Ireland might the decades as nimbly as a veteran historian. Few statuary was erected. Now after 15 years, following help in establishing networks with supporting funds who live or work here know “Irish Boston” as well as a period of doubt and a wrestle or two with myself provided by Irish government sources in partnership Mike Quinlin, a founder of the Boston Irish Tourism on what a memorial is intended to convey, I believe with rural church parishes. Association and prolific chronicler of all things Irish. it’s the right statue grouping, on the right corner of Attleboro Teen Conquers All At All-Ireland Save The Date – The Irish Consulate in Boston Boston, and, yes, it’s a Memorial with a capital M, Fleadh – Torrin Ryan, a US-trained Uilleann pipes and the Irish Network are hosting a remembrance of thank the good Lord, and once again, thank you to player, went to Derry to compete with musicians from Seamus Heaney, His Life and His Poetry, at the the late Tom Flatley! around the world and won first place. The eight-day Boston Public Library main branch on Boylston Street The root criticism, as I perceive it, is that the two festival, which attracted 20,000 musicians and 300,000 from 6 p.m.to 8 p.m. on Wed., Dec.11. Admission free. groupings (one in agony, the second hopeful) are spectators, had Ryan competing on the Uilleann pipes No RSVP needed, but limited seating. considered too obvious, too literal, too anti-abstract, against the best from Ireland and other countries. Severe Cuts Likely For Irish Health Service – and, of course, too “in your face.” One doesn’t have Torrin’s parents, Matt and Cathy Ryan, were One of the more troubled government delivery services to devote too much work on first sighting to quickly a little stunned by their son’s success. His mother in the Irish Republic in recent times has been in the grasp the message of the diaspora in the faces of the said she was surprised that an American won on an widely criticized health area. Many of the problems dispossessed and nearly dead. One doesn’t need some instrument that very few in the US ever heard of or have been with the “waits for service” in hospitals, snappy, four-color brochure to represent the freedom play. “I’m just so proud of him; he has put in a lot people on hospital hallway gurneys awaiting a bed that came at the end of the horrific coffin ship voy- of time and practice to achieve this.” To travel and and formal admission. Another dangerous failure of ages that brought hope, and a new life after a leap compete in Northern Ireland, Torrin had to first win the Irish health care industry has been the long and into the unknown. in the preliminary rounds here in the United States. frustrating delays for patients in scheduling surgical Yes, I like, even admire, the Boston Famine Memo- Ireland’s Economy On Slow Road To Recovery procedures for anything except emergency operations. rial. It is what it was intended to be when the project – There is better news on the Irish economic front, Many in need of surgery wait months, even years, leaders contacted the sculptor Robert Shure. They led by reports that the Dublin stock market in the for attention. knew what to expect (his works are popular and third week of October was at its highest level since Another target of critics has been the disorganized, plentiful) and together they accomplished their goal, September 2008. Around the world markets, many even casual, patient cancellations of doctor appoint- with authority and no question marks. After too long companies that came through the crash intact are ments. Ireland must lead the civilized world in can- a wait, we have a lasting memorial that recognizes now trading at levels not seen since the collapse of celled appointment and no-shows by patients with history’s truth and tells its poignant story to some Lehman Brothers five years ago. medical staff. Thousands of booked medical visits go three million viewers each year. What’s the problem? A further indication that Ireland is in the process unfulfilled every week in hospitals from Galway to Shutdown Madness Over, It’s Time For Im- of turning the corner is that low interest rates and county Dublin, and little is done to fix the system. migration Reform –Now that the silly, irrelevant, cheap money mean that many investors have moved Amidst what can kindly be called a healthcare and politically deranged attempt to turn America out of safe saving products, like bonds and deposit service in desperate need of reform with stronger into a facsimile of a know-nothing third-world joke, accounts, to buy shares. Mortgage holders also ap- leadership and life-saving budgeting, the Irish Health perhaps we might call on the members of Congress pear to be in line for an extended period of record-low Minister, Dr. James Reilly, now is predicting cuts to get back to their desks and finish the long-overdue interest rates. And it now appears that it could be close to a billion dollars in overall health costs and immigration legislation. A not unreasonable proposal 2015 before any Eurozone interest rates rise, which eliminating 1,000 staff positions in next year’s budget. is within the realm of possibility, especially when seems to be the course that incoming Federal Reserve While the Republic moves closer to fiscal stability considering the long weeks of bipartisan meetings by chair Janet Yellen is also following. the country is still a long way from a return to a full legislators to carve out a viable compromise. Where’s Ray Flynn Aids RI Nuns’ Good Work – Former economy. However, in meeting the obligations to its the work product? Boston Mayor and Vatican Ambassador Raymond debtors, it cannot forget the children, the elderly and The current mishmash of laws, legislators, and Flynn took some time off to help the Little Sisters of the the disabled. agencies have collectively failed to meet their re- Poor (Jeanne Jugan Home) in Pawtucket recently and RANDOM CLIPPINGS sponsibilities to fashion a sane proposal to answer had some supportive words for Pope Francis. Flynn, Belfast’s Waterfront Hall will pay tribute to Nobel the core question of what to do with regard to the a conservative Catholic who lives his religion every Laureate Heaney during Belfast Music Week (Nov. estimated 11 million undocumented foreigners in day of his life, might, I thought, not be too enamored 11-17) with a special appearance by the Ulster Or- the US today. If the Congress tries to finesse the im- of the new pope and his surprising views and recent chestra as an “expression of civic gratitude.”… Gerry migration question in the final months of 2013, it is interviews, but he spoke encouragingly and in praise Kelly, a Sinn Fein member of the Stormont Assembly unlikely that there will be any real progress in the of the pontiff, noting his change in tone, “The humility and former IRA volunteer, has written a book on the new year with mid-term congressional elections on he has is genuine. He is really an example of social famous escape of republican prisoners from Long Kesh tap. That’s the history. and economic justice, helping the poor, helping the in 1983. It’s not destined to be a big hit in the Or- President Obama is strong for immigration reform. needy. He has no desire for power, or glory or worldly ange Order halls. … Tech giant Intel has chosen the The question is can the fractured GOP get its act things. It is just amazing to me. This is him,” Flynn Irish Republic to design its major chip line, beating together, bring the House Tea Party folks on board, said, “and this why he is having such an important out Israel and the US. … The Catholic Church in and do something to resolve the festering problem. impact on society, even in this short period of time... Italy refused use of its churches and burial sites for Loyalist Bands Growing, Seek Redemption – He is giving people who have fallen away from the Nazi war criminal Erich Priebke. That’s my sort of There are today at least 640 bands and 30,000 band Catholic Church a reason to come back home. I think church. … Patriots coach Bill Belichick, when asked members and marchers making music in the North people will respond.” about team depth and its importance by a reporter, and their numbers are growing. For some ,it’s the JFK 50 Years Ago: A Time To Remember – The replied “It’s pretty important. You can’t have a team cultural ties in the Orange Order and a tradition pain of departure is mostly gone but the memories without players.” … Robo phone calls and telephone passed from one generation to another; for others, endure. As November approached I have been think- spam creeps are being targeted by new technology it is religious or communal links that express their ing of the death of President John Kennedy, wanting supported by the FCC. Can’t wait. … Is Irish Taoise- beliefs in the Protestant unionist history. There is an to say something about the 50th anniversary and ach Enda Kenny looking to emulate Bill Clinton increasing number of young band members who believe thinking, “It has all been said,” and indeed it has, at by pledging, as Bill did, to break the cycle of social that they and their traditions have been “demonized least most of it. But just today, almost on deadline, I welfare by reform of the present system? by negative headlines and a lack of understanding was poking around the Irish papers and I saw it. A Five years ago the 36-acre Waterford Crystal factory by nationalists.” long and loving memoir by Helen O’Neill in the Irish was a popular tourist destination, but it has been razed One band leader referenced a legacy of that commu- Examiner that recalled through the mist of memory to make way for an office park. … In need of funding nity’s historical ties and connections with the British the group of young Irish cadets who came to Arlington for a proposed Louth-Down bridge near Carlingford, military, noting that for two centuries the Protestant, National Cemetery to say goodbye to an American an SDLP local assembly member is urging the national unionist, and loyalist people of Ireland have expressed Irish President at the behest of the President’s Lady. Lottery to come up with the cash. … The controversial themselves musically. True enough, but that hardly Jacqueline Kennedy recalled her late husband peace and reconciliation center set for the grounds of begins to explain why Protestant marchers intention- describing the 26-member Irish teenage cadet drill Long Kesh Prison has had its funding withdrawn by ally stop and play racist and offensive tunes in front team that had accompanied him at the Dublin the EU. Rising costs and toxic politics are the culprits. of Catholic churches on the parade route. graveside ceremonies honoring the Easter Rising … The heat surrounding Sinn Fein’s Gerry Adams is Right or wrong, the message that these loyalist leaders, “the finest honor guard I have ever seen.” growing more intense following his confused answers marching bands reflect is a triumphant militarism That was during JFK’s June 1963 trip to Ireland, but about what he knew and when he knew it regarding that antagonizes and insults Catholic nationalists. it prompted Mrs. Kennedy to ask if the Irish cadets his brother Liam’s conviction in a Northern court of New Irish Ambassador to US No Slouch – Ann could come to Washington to be the honor guard at child abuse. … Baileys continues to be an enormous Anderson’s career with Ireland’s Foreign Affairs the President’s burial. Irish success story, bringing in millions to Ireland Department has been a series of firsts. She was the A hurried phone call to the cadets’ barracks in the and today being sold in 180 countries. … Michael first woman ambassador to the European Union Curragh from Ireland’s military chief of staff notified O’Leary, the innovative chief of Ryanair who has the from any member state. She became Ireland’s first the cadets that “We are providing a guard of honor personality of a wounded coyote, has finally hired a female ambassador to France, to the United Nations at the funeral of President Kennedy.” PR Guru to soften his abrasive, insulting behavior. in 2009, and now to the United States, in September The cadets on leave in and around Dublin were And not a minute too soon, I’d say. after presenting her credentials to President Obama. hastily assembled. In the words of one cadet who was Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com November 2013 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 9 Irish International Immigrant Center Immigration Q & A An agency accredited by US Department of Justice Employment: 100 Franklin Street, Boston, MA 02110 Telephone (617) 542-7654 Fax (617) 542-7655 Know Your Rights Website:iiicenter.org Email: [email protected] Q. I recently became a naturalized US citizen. I’ve been looking for a new job, and it seems to me that some prospective employers have been hassling me unfairly John (Jack) Joyce, tor at Deutsche Bank commitment to a better Proceeds from the So- about my immigration status. This may be because of Bill and Joyce Cum- Securities; Joyce and Bill world is an inspiration las Awards Celebration my accent or the country I originally came from. Is there mings, Raj Sharma, Cummings, Cummings to others. will support the IIIC’s anything that I can do? and John Hailer to Foundation founders; Founded in 1989, the work in providing legal, A. In the Civil Rights Division of the US Department Receive Solas Awards Raj Sharma, head of The IIIC will be launching a wellness and education of Justice there is an Office of Special Counsel (OSC) for as IIIC Launches 25th Sharma Group of Merrill year-long celebration of services; advocating for Immigration-Related Unfair Employment Practices. This Anniversary Year – The Lynch Private Banking the organization’s 25th systemic change; and office investigates situations like yours, as well as those Irish International Im- & Investment Group; and anniversary at the event, facilitating cross-cultural involving other people authorized to work in the US, such migrant Center will hold John Hailer, President spotlighting the Center’s community building. For as legal permanent residents or employment visa hold- its 2013 Solas Award Cel- and Chief Executive Of- ongoing efforts to assist more information about ers. In appropriate cases, OSC will sue employers who ebration on Dec. 6 at the ficer – The Americas and immigrants from Ireland this event and spon- discriminate against people based on their immigration John F. Kennedy Presi- Asia for Natixis Global As- and from around the sorship opportunities, status or national origin. dential Library and Mu- set Management. Named world as they integrate please contact Mary Kerr OSC has published the following guidance on this topic: seum where it will honor from the Gaelic word into American society, at [email protected] Citizenship/immigration status – Generally, an the achievements and for “light,” IIIC’s Solas and with partner orga- or at 617-695-1554, or employer may not treat you differently because you are, generosity of John (Jack) Awards are presented nizations, to promote by visiting iiicenter.org/ or are not, a US citizen. [Note: one exception would be Joyce, Managing Direc- annually to those whose reconciliation in Ireland. solas-awards-2013. certain jobs with the government or a government con- tractor requiring US citizenship for a security clearance.] US companies tap into a National origin – An employer may not treat you dif- Jorgensen to lead IIIC’s wellspring of young Irish ferently because of your place of birth, native language, talent,” she says. “This accent or appearance. J-1 Irish Work & Travel program is a genuine win- Document abuse – An employer may not, on the basis of your citizenship status or national origin, demand more win…it offers as much to Internship program or different documents than necessary for completing the the host companies as it I-9 Form, reject reasonably genuine-looking documents, does to the interns they or treat you differently when using E-Verify. By Niamh Lynch Irish graduates who will hire.” Kim Jorgensen remem- participate in the Center’s Retaliation – An employer may not retaliate against Jorgensen is well aware anyone who files a complaint with OSC or cooperates with bers what it’s like to be J-1 Irish Work & Travel of conditions in Ireland a fish out of water. As a program. The project is an OSC investigation, or who asserts his or her rights and considers her work under the anti-discrimination provision of the Immigra- college junior the Georgia jointly supported by the as an integral part of the native decided to pack up Irish Government and the tion and Nationality Act. IIIC’s wider social mis- A person who believes he or she has been subjected to her life and venture off to American Ireland Fund Kim Jorgensen sion. The Northeastern France for a six-month and is intended to help discrimination for any of these reasons can call OSC at master’s graduate says 1-800-255-7688 or visit the agency’s web site at usdoj. study abroad program. current students and re- she was initially attracted Although the experi- pre-program orientation gov/crt/osc. cent Irish graduates take to the organization by Of course there are other avenues to relief from ence would ultimately be advantage of a special J-1 and advice intended to help them arrive from that mission and by the various types of employment discrimination, including tremendously reward- visa whereby they may opportunity to make a filing a complaint with the federal Equal Employment ing, she remembers how undertake an internship Ireland ready to hit the ground running. This positive contribution to Opportunity Commission or the relevant state agency. initially overwhelming it of up to one year in the community at both a lo- Choosing the right course in a particular case generally was to navigate day-to- United States. might mean helping them polish a resume, craft cal and an international will require the advice of a lawyer specializing in employ- day life in a completely An important stipula- level. ment discriminations issues, particularly as they relate new culture. One of the tion of the visa is that a strong cover letter, or familiarize themselves For his part, IIIC Ex- to immigration status or national origin. IIIC can make reasons she was able to the US internship must ecutive Director Ronnie a referral to such a lawyer in appropriate cases. make the most of the correspond to the appli- with relevant recruitment websites and job boards Millar sees Jorgensen as Visit one of IIIC’s weekly legal clinics for a free, confi- opportunity, however, cant’s field of study back a perfect fit for her new dential consultation on any immigration law-related issue. was that she was part of in Ireland. The IIIC offers In contrast to this work, Jorgensen’s new role will role. “Kim is a tremendous Disclaimer: These articles are published to inform a program that offered one-stop shopping for generally, not to advise in individual cases. Immigra- see her engaging directly asset for this program. practical support both these individuals, provid- Her previous experience tion law is always subject to change. The US Citizenship before and during her ing everything from visa with US host companies, and Immigration Services and US Department of State sustaining the Center’s working directly with ap- time abroad. sponsorship to assistance plicants gives her a huge frequently amend regulations and alter processing and Today, as the newly ap- in locating a quality in- existing contacts in vari- filing procedures. For legal advice seek the assistance of ous sectors and develop- amount of credibility in pointed Manager of Intern ternship in their chosen speaking to potential host IIIC immigration legal staff. Placement at the Irish career field. ing new ones on behalf of incoming program companies.” International Immigrant Previous to her appoint- Niamh Lynch is a free- Center, Jorgensen finds ment with the IIIC, Jor- participants. It’s a chal- IRISH INTERNATIONAL IMMIGRANT CENTER lenge she relishes. “It’s lance writer and can the roles reversed as she gensen spent 18 months LEGAL IMMIGRATION ASSISTANCE really exciting for me to be contacted at niamh- offers similar support to working directly with the [email protected]. the hundreds of young intern applicants, offering be in a position to help The Irish International Immigrant Center provides free legal support and representation to the Irish immigrant community. Weekly legal clinics are held throughout the Greater Boston area, Matters Of Substance where you can receive a free and confidential consultation with our staff and volunteer pro bono attorneys. For support or information, call us at (617) 542-7654. Narcan® - Another way to save lives Upcoming Clinic Schedule By Danielle Owen if someone is struggling oid Overdose Prevention Tuesday, November 5th Opioid overdose from with this drug. and Reversal Project. It IIIC, 100 Franklin St., Downtown Boston drugs like heroin, oxy- Dependence occurs distributes and trains Monday, November 11th at 6:30pm codone, methadone, when the body develops the community to use a The Green Briar Pub, 304 Washington St., Brighton Fentanyl, codeine, and tolerance to the drug, medication called nasal Tuesday, November 19th morphine is one of the meaning higher doses are naloxone, also known IIIC, 100 Franklin St., Downtown Boston leading causes of death in needed for the same effect. as Narcan®, that can Tuesday, December 3rd Massachusetts. According In this desire for the same reverse the effects of an IIIC, 100 Franklin St., Downtown Boston to the Oxycontin Her- effect, overdoses can oc- opioid overdose. When an oin Commission, 4,500 cur. Psychological effects overdose occurs, it tends Phone: 617.542.7654 | Fax: 617.542.7655 | www.iiicenter.org Massachusetts residents include craving and com- to slow breathing to the died from opioid-related pulsive behavior to get point of death. Nasal overdoses between 2002 the drug, and continued naloxone blocks the opi- form rescue breathing, and 2008. Furthermore, use despite negative con- oids and restores normal and how to administer Eastern Massachusetts sequences such as legal breathing when sprayed nasal naloxone. had the highest rate of problems or losing a job. into the nose of someone If you or someone you emergency room visits In addition, stopping the who has overdosed. It is love is addicted to opioids FOLEY LAW OFFICES, P.C. involving illicit drugs of drug produces withdrawal safe, easy to administer, please join us for this any metropolitan region symptoms such as anxi- and has no potential for valuable opportunity. Attorney John Philip Foley in the United States in ety, irritability, muscle abuse. Our Wellness team will be 2011, according to a recent aches, vomiting, abdomi- Several Massachusetts present and available to Permanent Residency & Citizenship • Family & Business report by the Massachu- nal cramping, diarrhea, programs are participat- offer confidential advice, Immigration • Labor Certification & Temporary Visas setts Health Council. sweating, confusion, en- ing in the pilot project, referrals and sugges- ALL Nationalities & AILA Members Based on the increase in larged pupils, tremors and including Learn To Cope tions for support. Learn calls and referrals we have loss of appetite. and Manet Community how you can help save received in the last five These symptoms of Health Center. Staff from lives in our community. years, opioid use seems to withdrawal aren’t medi- Manet have kindly offered Contact IIIC’s counselor, be on the rise in Boston’s cally dangerous, but they a FREE Narcan® train- Danielle Owen, for more AUTO BODY REPAIRS (617) 825-1760 Irish community as well. can be agonizing and ing for our community on information at 617-542- (617) 825-2594 One of every four new often lead back to using Nov. 21 in Hancock Park, 7654, Ext.14. Sometimes FAX (617) 825-7937 referrals are related to the drug. If someone has Quincy Center. Com- it is easier to chat with opioid use. For many Irish been abstinent from these munity members, Opioid someone from home with- families, discovering that drugs for a time but then users, and their families out fear of judgment and their teen, adult child, or starts using them again, and friends will be trained in complete confidence. they are also at risk of an on how to recognize and partner is addicted can be Danielle Owen is the Free Pick-Up & Delivery Service a shock. No one ever plans opioid overdose. prevent an opioid over- IIICV’s Director of Well- on becoming addicted To save lives, the De- dose, and what to do if ness and Education Ser- when they begin using partment of Public Health one occurs. The training vices. 150 Centre Street opioids, and it is some- has begun a pilot pro- covers the importance of times difficult to detect gram called The Opi- calling 911, how to per- Dorchester, MA 02124 Page 10 November 2013 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com Traveling People As ‘old faithfuls’ go, Dromoland ranks high

By Judy Enright locally as possible. The Special to the BIR cookbook was an exciting We all know change project and I enjoyed it,” is inevitable but in few he said. places is change more The noted food and evident than in Ireland. accommodation writer Attractions, accommoda- Georgina Campbell says tion, and eateries you visit McCann’s cookbook offers and enjoy one year, could “not only a fine range of very well be gone by the modern classic recipes… next. But there are some but also some insights into “old faithfuls” that have life behind the scenes at been around for many the Castle.” Wouldn’t it be years, have stood the a great gift to bring home test of time, and seem after a visit? as though they will be ANNIVERSARY around forever. COCKTAIL DROMOLAND Dromoland’s manage- One such “old faithful” ment and staff celebrated is the 5-Star Dromoland the anniversary in vari- Castle Hotel, which this ous ways. In addition to year celebrated 50 years publishing the cookbook, The 50th anniversary of service to the public. the hotel commissioned its Dromoland Castle Cock- Dromoland is in Newmar- own tartan plaid, brand- tail includes apricot ket-on-Fergus, Co. Clare, ed a special Dromoland brandy, elderflower and Niall and James, bartenders at Dromoland Castle Hotel, make the special close to Shannon Airport Blond Ale, and two young lychee liqueurs and cocktail they invented for the hotel’s 50th Anniversary. Note the “jack-a-lope” and a fun place to stay, bartenders there – Niall champagne. on the wall behind them. and James – created a with lots of activities on and the Inn’s name has 50th anniversary cocktail site, including a spa, lei- been changed to The Inn the Inn share gardeners name and new branding, ing Restaurant of the Year with apricot brandy, el- sure center, golf, falconry, at Dromoland. and groundsmen, Nolan and I’m glad I did. I very was The Beach House in derflower liqueur, lychee fishing, estate walks and My ground floor room said), we can imagine much enjoyed my stay Buncrana, Co. Donegal. liqueur, and champagne. trails on the hotel’s 450 was spotlessly clean with that the Inn would be the this spring. It is a perfect Both the B&B of the I tried one and can report acres, and much more. a large window overlook- most perfect place for a spot for someone flying in Year and B&B Breakfast that it was mighty tasty! Meals, thanks to David ing part of Dromoland’s wedding. According to or out of Shannon Airport Award went to The Arch- Another milestone – McCann, executive head 18-hole golf course and Nolan, the Inn “is already and it’s also a great base ways B&B in Rosslare, Co. albeit in July 2012 – was chef since 1995, and his the surrounding country- one of the frontrunners for exploring many nearby Wexford, and Farmhouse bringing back into the staff are outstanding and side. There was a walk-in for weddings.” In April, attractions, such as the of the Year was won by Dromoland family the if you love the meals as shower with superb water there were 48 weddings Cliffs of Moher, which are Annaharvey Farm in Tul- former Clare Inn, which much as most guests do, pressure, which is not al- already booked and the less than an hour away. lamore, Co. Offaly. The once belonged to the you can take home David’s ways the case in Ireland. staff was hoping to build Galway is about an hour Guesthouse Breakfast castle but had been sold newly-released cookbook A friend and I enjoyed on reputation and quality and Limerick a half an Award went to The Quay 23 years ago. from the gift shop on the a very nice lunch in the to increase the number to hour on the road. House in Clifden, Co. Gal- A massive three-year, grounds. “Dromoland Poacher’s Pub at the Inn 80 or 90 in 2014. I definitely recommend way, and owners, Paddy six-million Euro renova- Castle Cookbook” was when we arrived and a If you are planning the Inn at Dromoland. and Julia Foyle, were also tion project was launched released in May this delicious breakfast the a wedding, note that The food was excellent, named hosts of the year. at the Inn in January, year as part of the hotel’s next two mornings in every wedding package the room was lovely and Country House of the according to Mark No- anniversary celebration. Deerfield’s Restaurant, at the Inn includes pre- the Inn is more affordable Year was Carrig House, lan, managing director McCann is responsible for the walls of which are wedding consultation and than Dromoland, while Caragh Lake, Co. Kerry of Dromoland. When we the entire book, including decorated with lovely complimentary wedding still welcoming guests to and Moy House in La- visited in the spring, much photography, and print- photographs of Ireland. tasting; champagne red enjoy some of the castle’s hinch, Co. Clare, was ing was done close by. had already been updated carpet arrival for bride facilities. The Inn is just Hideaway of the Year. and improved. Halls were WEDDINGS In-house and local produc- With 151 rooms and an and groom, and compli- a short walk, car, or coach Chosen family-friendly painted and the lobby was tion, McCann said, “goes updated function room mentary three- month ride from the Castle. For hotel of the year was Hotel brightened with a fresh with my philosophy about that overlooks manicured membership to the Lei- more information, visit Westport in Co. Mayo, and coat of light paint. There food as well, because I be- grounds (Dromoland and sure Centre; complimen- theinnatdromoland.ie. most Pet-Friendly Hotel lieve in sourcing as much were new furnishings, too, tary accommodation for Both the Inn and castle was Cromleach Lodge, the bride and groom’s offer seasonal specials and Lough Arrow in Co. Sligo. parents the night of the are currently advertising There are many, many wedding; complimentary Christmas and New Year’s good hotels, B&Bs, restau- chair covers and table offers. Visit dromoland.ie rants and pubs in Ireland centerpieces; tea/coffee for more information on these days waiting to and biscuits on arrival; the castle hotel. serve you and these are a personalized wedding HOSPITALITY just a few. menu, and special room AWARDS TRAVEL rates for wedding guests. We mentioned Geor- Don’t think there’s noth- There are a number of gina Campbell earlier in ing to do in Ireland in different packages avail- this column. She annu- November. Even though able. For a brochure, ally presents hospitality the weather has cooled contact the Inn (thein- awards in various catego- down, there are still many natdromoland.ie) and ries to restaurants and assorted festivals, a walk- for details on wedding accommodations across ing weekend (Nov. 8-10) packages, contact Claire the country. in Thurles, Co. Tipperary, Coughlan, deputy general For 2013, the Restau- and the Rugby League manager, at claire.cough- rant of the Year was The World Cup on Nov. 9 in [email protected] Greenhouse in Dublin and Thomond Park, Limerick CHANGE IN Chef of the Year was Ian City. Golfers enjoy Dromoland Castle Hotel’s championship course with the hotel ATTITUDE Orr of Brown’s Restaurant Be sure to visit Internet in the background. Judy Enright photos I have to admit that I in Derry. Hotel of the Year travel sites for the best had a mighty negative was The Granville Hotel deals on air and ground attitude about staying at in Waterford and Seafood travel and see Tourism The Inn based on experi- Restaurant of the Year Ireland’s excellent website ence from days gone by at was The Oar House in – discoverireland.com – The Clare Inn and prior to Howth, Co. Dublin. for the latest events and revisiting the revamped Pub of the Year was happenings all over the property. But I gave it Nancy’s Bar in Ardara, Co. island. EIRE another try, under its new Donegal, and Casual Din- Phillips Candy House pub fine chocolates since 1925

795 Adams St. • Dorchester “President’s Choice” Serving Lunch & Dinner Every day, 7 days a week Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com November 2013 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 11 Boston irish Boston Irish Arts, Entertainment, Travel & More ReporterRóisín O is now in hot pursuit of her own voice, her own words By Sean Smith she had, with a house open Special to the BIR to musical guests and At one point between experiences unknown to songs during her recent most of her peers. performance at The Bur- “I remember realizing at ren, Róisín O’Reilly – more a very young age that my familiarly known as Rói- Mom was famous – people sín O – tuned her guitar, would stop her in the adjusted the capo, and street all the time. I was gave the audience a sly quite proud of it, actually. smile. My mother got to do big- Allison Olivia Choat: Seeks ‘vitality, immediacy’ “I assume,” she dead- ger and bigger tours, and panned, “that most of you sometimes she’d take me know who my mommy is.” out of school so I could go Moonbox presenting There was applause and with her – she thought it laughter from the crowd, was a good ‘life experience’ because, yes, most of them type of thing. ‘Earnest’ in Boston do in fact know that her “But then when I grew mother is Mary Black, older, I got rather embar- Allison Olivia Choat one of Ireland’s most cel- rassed, and didn’t want ebrated female singers. people to know about her. “Well, I’m not going to I thought they would judge in the director’s chair do ‘Song for Ireland,’ ” me just based on the fact that she was my mother. By R. J. Donovan said Róisín O, “but this is one of her favorites.” And Now, I’m in the middle. I Special To The BIR can certainly turn to her “The Importance of Being Earnest” stands as one of with that, she launched into “By the Time It Gets for good advice, and I can the world’s most enduring plays. Written by Dublin- trust in anything she says. born Oscar Wilde in 1895, the witty comedy of good Dark,” a Sandy Denny song that Black covered, But I like people to make manners is set in Victorian London and filled with their own decisions about mistaken identities, secret engagements and baffled to great acclaim, in the late 1980s. my music.” suitors. Róisín O’s music is At its heart, it’s populated by characters who create It was a highlight among many on a landmark night Róisín O’Reilly, better known as Róisín O, comes well balanced in form fictitious personas in order to avoid social obligations from a musical family but is establishing her own and content. Whatever they find tiresome. More than a century later, Wilde for the 24-year-old singer- songwriter: her first solo credentials as a singer-songwriter. the combination of genes would no doubt marvel at the abundance of questionable Sean Smith photo and good, hard work, the Facebook pages and fictitious dating profiles splashed headline show of her first US tour. [A little elabo- dent Michael D. Higgins. my mother did; I started fact is she has a great set across the Internet. The play shows the more things of pipes, with impressive change, the more they stay the same. ration is needed here: At this stage, Róisín O writing songs at 16, and I “Róisín O” can also refer presents a fascinating por- just decided that was how range and command, and Allison Olivia Choat is directing the latest produc- the ability to convey the tion of “Earnest,” presented by Moonbox Productions to the name of her band, trait of an artist seeking I wanted to go. While I like although in this case she to establish her identity, the modern, I also like the emotions and defining at The Boston Center for the Arts from November 22 characteristics of the song to December 14. A native of Knoxville, Tennessee, she was accompanied only by even as she continues to older folk music as well, Luke Nelson, a childhood explore the fuller aspects and I try to mix that in in question. studied opera at Oberlin College and Oberlin Conserva- Melodically and lyri- tory of Music. Having arrived in New England through friend now living in New of that persona. Grateful my own music. York City.] The five-week for the musical legacy with “I’ve been very lucky to cally, Róisín O tends to- friends, she decided to stay. ward the alt folk-rock area sojourn, which ended which she’s associated, work with some wonder- in late August, was the Róisín O is canny enough ful people, and am really of the musical spectrum, Here’s a condensed look at our recent conversation much like Joni Mitchell about music, her career and the upcoming production latest milestone in what to know that it is her own excited to have this oppor- has been an eventful voice, and the words she tunity to take my music to (whom she unabashedly of “The Importance of Being Earnest.” cites as a major influ- 12 months or so, during sings with it, that will America.” which she released her ultimately determine how Personable, gracious ence) and perhaps a less BIR: Tell me a little about growing up in Tennessee. quirky Kate Bush – hints AOC: I’m a little bit of an ethnic mutt, as so many first CD, “The Secret Life far she goes. And in the and good-humored, with of Blue” – it went into meantime, it’s clear she’s a radiant smile to match, of pop and jazz here, but Americans are. Everybody from this corner of Appala- with a certain organic im- chia I grew up in is essentially Scottish-Irish, maybe a the Irish album charts at enjoying the ride. Róisín O is by no means number 21 – supported “I want people to take averse to talking about her mediacy and intimacy. A little bit English. We’re all sort of hard-bitten mountain lot of her songs speak of people who moved from one cold, wet, relatively inhos- Lionel Richie (yes, that me for what I am,” she musical lineage, which in Lionel Richie) at his Dub- said, as she and Nelson addition her mother and trusting in your emotions’ pitable place to a warm, wet, relatively inhospitable better intentions, taking place. (Laughs) . . . So while it wasn’t specifically Irish lin and Belfast shows, relaxed over dinner prior grandparents includes appeared on a live St. to the Burren show. “I her father Joe O’Reilly, chances and being open culture I grew up in – it was Appalachian culture – I’ve to all manner of possibili- always been struck by how similar they are. I grew Patrick’s Day TV broad- love having grown up in a of Dara Records, and cast alongside the likes musical family, and I love brother Danny, a singer- ties, as opposed to shut- up with a real sense of my family and myself as Ap- ting yourself off from the palachian people and as Irish people. Not necessarily of Bono, Christy Moore, all that I learned and ex- songwriter who plays with Glen Hansard and Imelda perienced from doing that. the rock band The Coro- world; many of the song Irish people from Ireland, but heirs to this tradition. titles themselves – “Here BIR: You’re right, there are strong similarities. May, and was invited to But I never got into the nas. She feels fortunate perform for Irish Presi- traditional stuff the way to have had the childhood We Go,” “Climb High,” (Continued on page 15) (Continued on page 14) BCMFest set for January 10-11 at Harvard Sq. venues This January, BCMFest and the Boston Urban patory and social dances form, content and/or feel (Boston’s Celtic Music Ceilidh – BCMFest’s from the Irish, Scottish of traditional ballads to Fest) will begin its second always-popular Celtic and Cape Breton tradi- the Celtic side of Elvis decade of celebrating the dance party – just around tions, all with live music. Presley. Boston area’s abundance the corner at The Atrium, No experience is neces- * The Saturday night of Irish, Scottish, Cape 50 Church Street. sary – all dances will be BCMFest Nightcap con- Breton, and other Celtic- BCMFest’s Saturday taught. cert at First Church related music and dance “Dayfest” begins in the • BCMFest’s Saturday concludes the festival traditions. morning with children’s “Dayfest” begins in the in grand fashion with The 11th annual BC- and family entertain- Heaton; Liz Simmons; Clohessy – and Jigs & morning at Club Passim an evening of top-notch MFest, which takes place ment at Club Passim, Katie McD; Owen Mar- Saws. Updates on BC- with songs, storytelling music and dance from the on January 10-11, 2014, and continues through shall and Lindsay Straw; MFest 2014 performers and other entertainment cream of the local Celtic will once again bring the afternoon with a full Flynn Cohen and the and events will be avail- geared toward children crop. together dozens of lo- slate of concerts and other Deadstring Ensemble; able at http://passim.org/ and families. BCMFest is a program cal musicians, singers events at Club Passim Jenna Moynihan; Joey bcmfest. • “Dayfest” also in- of Passim, a Cambridge- and dancers to present and nearby First Church, Abarta; NØÍR; Lukas A look at some of the cludes participatory based non-profit seeking performances as well as Cambridge, at 3 Church Pool, Bronwyn Keith- highlights of BCMFest dance and jam sessions in to build a vibrant mu- participatory music and Street. The festival con- Hynes and Mark Kilian- 2014: The Attic of First Church. sic community through dance events. Family- cludes Saturday eve- ski; Diane Taraz; Lindsay • Friday night’s “Roots • BCMFest is noted for its legendary listening friendly and genuinely ning with the “BCMFest Adler; Elizabeth and Ben and Branches” concert at its workshops, in which venue, music school, art- grassroots, the festival Nightcap” finale concert Anderson; Molly Pinto Club Passim spotlights performers collaborate ist grants and outreach is held in the heart of in First Church. Madigan; Sean Smith; some of the area’s young, around a special theme initiatives. Harvard Square, start- At press time, perform- SoundShapes – a special innovative musical tal- or focus – anything from Ticket information and ing with the Friday night ers who are confirmed to performance of Irish mu- ent. instruments that you other details about the “Roots and Branches” appear at the festival in- sic and dance featuring • The Boston Urban pluck or blow to contem- festival will be available concert at Club Passim clude: Matt and Shannon Kieran Jordan and Sean Ceilidh features partici- porary songs with the at passim.org/bcmfest. Page 12 November 2013 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com CD Reviews

By Sean Smith Out/Dud’s” (two McNally A pair of recent CD originals) offers another releases confirms – once transition, from a delicate again – that the Greater sweetness to a somewhat Boston area is a multi- more complex melodic faceted wellspring of cre- shade, with McDonald’s ativity in Celtic music. guitar and Neil Pearl- First, there is “Flour- man’s piano providing ish,” the debut album of some luscious cross- fiddler Katie McNally, hatching. The all-trad reel who has already fash- medley “Farmer’s Daugh- ioned an impressive ca- percussive, flamboyant ter/The Glen Where the reer while still shy of her grace notes, as well as Deer Is” puts front and mid-20s. In addition to her shifts in bowing or impro- center McNally’s focus on regular duet work with visational turns that are arrangement, along with guitarist Eric McDonald, associated with American that of her accompanists, she has become a main- fiddling. in this case McDonald and stay of the distinguished American Scottish thus string bassist Corey Di- all-fiddle ensemble Child- has a very contemporary Mario – the musicians lay splay, appearing on two of feel to it, and its reper- down a muted, restrained the group’s CDs and both toire, while comprising intro until McNally begins of its DVDs, and toured many traditional tunes, the tune, gradually pick last year with Carlos Nu- is chock full of modern up the pace into the second ñez, the internationally compositions by the likes part and then softly meld renowned bagpiper and of Fraser, Cassel, Laura into the background as frequent Chieftains col- Risk, Ryan McKasson – McNally bows rhythmi- laborator. More recently, and, yes, McNally, who cally to bring the track McNally has joined Long began penning her own to a close. Time Courting, the Bos- material as early as high Presenting the stark- ton-based female quartet school. est contrast, however, is (with Shannon Heaton, McNally’s performance McNally’s pair of reels, Liz Simmons and Val and recording experiences “Bad Soup/Riff Raff and Thompson) whose reper- served her well as a pre- Widget”: The former is a toire encompasses Irish, lude to her own album churning, restless D-mi- Scottish. and American project: In the spotlight, nor melodrama (McNally music. her playing is assured has said the tune was While through her vari- and confident, and her inspired by a romantic dis- ous activities McNally command of the music – appointment) – DiMario’s has become familiar with whether traditional, con- bowed bass sounds ap- Irish, Cape Breton, Gali- temporary, or original – is propriately dour – which cian, and other music evident. She is able to shift mellows out into D major traditions, she is rooted tone and mood without when cellist Ari Friedman in what is called the a hitch, as she demon- takes up the second tune American Scottish fiddle strates on the opening until McNally re-enters style, popularized by such track, which begins with to further drive away the performers as Alasdair the slow, almost mystical storm clouds; “Riff Raff Fraser and Hanneke traditional Hebridean and Widget,” by the way, Cassel, a teacher and strathspey “Waulking of are the names of two goats mentor of McNally who the Fauld,” and segues McNally met at a friend’s co-produced the CD with into “Lillian’s Reel,” a house – clearly, her muse her and supplies harmony muscular, accented reel is very easily motivated. fiddle. The style draws on of McNally’s that is the Two other tracks of note: T the virtuosic, almost clas- very essence of American a medley of tunes by Silly sical elements of Scottish Scottish. Wizard co-founder Phil fiddling, characterized by The jig set “In and Cunningham, the pen- Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com November 2013 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 13 CD Reviews sive-sounding “Cathcart” MacConduibh, with Jim emotion and verve to its melody as Phelps gathers ley on the penultimate and the driving minor-to- MacConduibh providing repertoire: Witness their momentum. track has the band at major 5/4 “Leire’s Wel- accompaniment on guitar, effusive medley of the “March of the King of peak operating capacity, come to Cozac” (for which bouzouki, and percussion. Galician dance tune “Aires Laois,” meanwhile, is fit- featuring dead-on pipes- Michael McLaughlin sup- Overall, there’s a certain de Pontevedra” and the tingly regal and dignified, whistle-fiddle unison for plies a majestic accordion formality, even deliber- Asturian jig “Muineira De and contains some lovely “Devil in the Kitchen” line); and, concluding the ateness, to the band’s Casu.” Another highlight little subtleties – the and Ketudat’s flourishes album, a bridal march sound, which no doubt is a Phelps-Sarah Mac- fiddle and flute harmonies behind Phelps and Sarah from Unst in the Shetland stems in part from their Conduibh duet – using behind Phelps at the end MacConduibh on “Heat Islands, McNally adding integrated resume, which an arrangement by John of the tune’s B part, for from the Furnace,” build- a hardinger fiddle to un- incorporates classical and Walsh – on the intricate example. Other venerable ing to a solid finish. derscore the Scandinavian – sweet-toned and qui- martial music experience: George S. McLennan tunes like “MacPherson’s So, if Fellswater’s ap- influence in the islands’ eter than the highland Ketudat, for example, pipe tune “The Little Cas- Lament” (played as a slow proach is perhaps less music tradition. pipes, but nonetheless has a strong background cade,” said to have been march, yet losing none of gritty, more cerebral than If the album wasn’t generating a considerable in chamber music, while inspired by the sound of its wistfulness) and “The other bands of a similar already a great achieve- presence playing. Adding Sarah MacConduibh (like a dripping faucet. Phelps Pikeman’s March” – with ilk, it doesn’t obscure the ment on its own terms, melody, and occasional Ketudat) is a longtime starts it in a slow, seem- a tasteful drum backing dynamic range of the Celt- the backstory for “Flour- harmonies or counter- member of a fife and drum ingly disjointed fashion, by Jim MacConduibh – get ic music they champion. ish” makes it even better. melodies, are the fiddle of corps. with MacConduibh’s flute a similarly proper treat- Those Thursday nights McNally launched a Kick- Elizabeth Ketudat and the Which is not to say that harmonizing, then adding ment. A march-strath- have been well spent, starter campaign to fund flute and whistle of Sarah Fellswater doesn’t bring variations around the spey-reel-hornpipe med- indeed. [fellswater.com] the project, and she was pleasantly stunned by the results: She met her goal in two days and wound up raising twice the amount she originally envisioned. Clearly, McNally has an avid and dedicated fan base out there, and it should only increase as she continues to build on her solo and collaborative work. [katiemcnally.com] Although it also has an unmistakably Scottish character, the quartet Fellswater brings a more pan-Celtic perspective to its music, as evidenced by their second CD, “Thurs- day Night” (the title refers to their regularly scheduled gatherings for practice and socializing): Their sets include tunes from the Irish, Breton, Cape Breton, and Gali- cian traditions, as well as Scottish. At the core of Fellswa- ter Matt Phelps’s superb, often mesmerizing work on Scottish small pipes

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FORGE wORldwidE AD SIZE triM 10”x8” 142 Berkeley Street publICATION BoSton reporter BoSton, MA 02116 COlOr FOrMAT CMyk 617.262.4800 JOb NuMbEr SBli CONTACT FrAn Sorrentino x 120 Page 14 November 2013 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com Róisín O is now in hot pursuit of her own voice, her own words (Continued from page 9) ingly jumps up an octave, a man finds himself out of themselves drinking tea “Find the Light,” “Hold then back down. And just in the woods, pursued – which, of course, is what On” – connote an active, when you think it’s over, by creepy, mysterious you do if you’re Irish.” The supportive disposition. she unleashes a jubilant masked figures, only to “#teaspora” video is a lov- “Here We Go,” the first world-music-style scat discover that neither they, ing, amusing, even touch- track on “Secret Life of that intertwines with two nor he, are what they seem ing collaborative effort. Blue,” is an exuberant other vocal components to to be. A forlorn animal The recent tour was joy ride inspired by an create a warm, energetic puppet is the central figure not Róisín O’s first time arts and music festival in coda. in “How Long,” seemingly in America – besides ac- County Laois. Róisín O “I used to write only alone in an uncaring, even companying her mother fairly races to keep up with when I felt the emotion hostile world until salva- on a few tours, she spent herself as she describes to write a song,” she says. tion arrives. a year in San Jose during the rush of scenes and sen- “Most of my songs were Probably the most no- college (she has a musicol- Róisín O, with Luke Nelson during her show at The sations [“There is a place about heartache, or feeling table and accomplished ogy degree) – and however Burren earlier this year. Sean Smith photo you’ll find, you might find down, or feeling upset – or Róisín O music video is much she wanted to assert it when half alive/But it’ll feeling upset about not be- “Tea Song,” which was her own musical identity, heard Paul Brady do this,” after the house lights came make you dance and keep ing able to write. But I’m actually written by former she also recognizes that she said in her introduc- on and the crowd began to you dancing like it’s your really a happy person, and bandmate Brian Murphy there are certain expec- tion. “I’m not going to be filter out the door. “I really last/Down and round and I don’t lead a terribly hard (he and she do a melliflu- tations in the US about as good a guitar player as loved how the audience got down and round, the trail life, so I decided I’d bet- ous duet of it on the CD). Irish female singers and Paul, but I’ll do my best”) into it, and started singing will wind…”] until she ter change my approach “Brian played it for me, what they bring to the and the sorrowful “Siul and clapping along. It’s a glides into the chorus on or else I wouldn’t have and I wanted to do it right table repertoire-wise. So, Aroon.” great way to do your first the momentum she’s cre- enough to write about. away. I asked him what for The Burren, in addi- And whatever she solo gig.” ated. “Synchronicity,” by So I started to tap into the song was about, and tion to “By the Time It played, the audience She expects to be back contrast, is more thought- different areas of my life; he said he wrote it about Gets Dark” she mixed in responded heartily. As in the US sometime next ful and introspective, logi- I always try to keep it as being very hung over, and with her material covers the show continued, her year, not least because cally yet tenderly making natural as I can – espe- the only thing that makes of popular hits by Joni comfort level grew expo- she’ll be performing on the case for emotional cially in terms of lyrics, you feel better is drinking Mitchell and Fleetwood nentially, and the tint of her mother’s tour. Who connection, and climaxing I try to write only when lots of tea. But to me it Mac, Dougie MacLean’s nervousness evident at knows what will happen in with a joyous affirmation I feel something’s there. sounded like a love song, anthemic “Caledonia,” the beginning dissipated the interim, but she feels of “I’m home!” If not, maybe I’ll focus on even if he didn’t see it that and a few well-known tra- completely. about as ready as can be. “How Long” is a tour- writing a good chord pro- way.” ditional songs, including “It was a great night, To paraphrase a certain de-force of empathy and gression, and then figure Talking with her man- “Mary and the Soldier” (“I loads of fun,” she said, song title, Here She Goes. passion, building from a out something that will ager about the song and plaintive, almost tenta- work with it.” how it might translate tive beginning [“How long Being a thoroughly 21st- to video, she says, the Fiddler of Dooney (Boston) must we stand here? How century performer, Róisín idea of depicting tea as a long can you stand it?”] O has made use of video universal creature comfort that showcases superb in promoting her music, came about. “We were is an artist of the Midwest ornamentation, and then and has come up with saying how there were By Sean Smith this,” said Gourley, in- stayed. gaining strength with some clever, engaging, and so many Irish abroad, terviewed before he set “You always hear about a cathartic declaration distinctive results, often so we sent out messages Special to the BIR Irish literature fans off for Ireland. “It was how great the Irish music – “That’s all I want” – involving a group-identity through social media invit- know “The Fiddler of just perfect timing in so scene in Boston is, but during which she unerr- theme. In “Here We Go,” ing people to send us clips Dooney” as one of W. many ways: I recently it’s true,” he said. “There B. Yeats’s most famous stopped working full-time are so many technically works, with its memorable to be able to focus on my advanced, excellent musi- opening lines: “When music, so I have a lot more cians around at sessions County Donegal Association I play on my fiddle in freedom, and I’d never and the like, yet it’s also Dooney/folk dance like had the chance to go to relaxed. I’ve gone to a lot a wave of the sea.” But the competition in Sligo. of other places, and it’s just of Greater Boston the poem also is the I’m really grateful for the not as easy to make friends namesake of a venerable opportunity.” with other musicians as it Irish fiddle competition in A Madison, Wis., na- is here.” Sligo whose winners have tive whose father plays Gourley’s competitors at ANNUAL REUNION BANQUET included such luminar- old-time fiddle, Gourley Fiddler of Dooney (Boston) ies as Seamus Connolly, started out as a Suzuki were Adam Cole-Mullen, Kathleen Collins, Seamus violinist at five years old. Tomas Bowling, and Bren- Saturday, November 2, 2013 McGuire, Paddy Glackin, His father took him to dan Callahan. Sheila Falls and Cathal Hayden. various festivals featuring served as the adjudicator. And now, the Boston old-time/American music, George Keith, who did Join the Donegal Association area has its own Fiddler but Gourley found himself the greater share of orga- of Dooney. – “much to my dad’s cha- nizing the Burren event, for an evening of fun, food and entertainment Last month, Boston’s grin,” he quipped – drawn said the Fiddler of Dooney, with a sit down dinner Reynolds-Hanafin-Cool- more to the Irish fiddlers more than ever, remains ey branch of Comhaltas he heard, like Dennis an important fixture in Ceoltóirí Êireann spon- Hayes, Liz Carroll, and Irish traditional music. sored the first-ever “Fid- Brendan Mulvihill. “The Fleadh Cheoil [Ire- at Florian Hall, Hallet Street, Dorchester, MA dler of Dooney (Boston)” It was when he went land’s national music competition, held at The to college in Minneapolis competition] serves its Special Guest Burren pub in Somerville. that Gourley immersed purpose, but it’s become so Four fiddlers signed up himself in Irish fiddle, big and so diffuse that it to have a go, and in the inspired by such players can be overwhelming. The Consul General Breandán O Caollaí and his wife end Nathan Gourley – a as James Kelly, Tommy Fiddler of Dooney compe- recent arrival from the Peoples, Brian Rooney, tition has more of a focus, Tickets: President Colm McDaid, Midwest – prevailed as and Liz and Yvonne Kane. it takes place in a concert the inaugural winner; his He made the round of local setting, and thus puts 617-698-7112, Michael McCarron 617-696-1702 prize was a cash award to sessions and wound up a real emphasis on the cover travel costs to the big playing in a trio with accor- music, and the tradition. or any board member. event in Sligo, which took dionist Paddy O’Brien and “A local Fiddler of Tickets: $50 place October 23-28. guitarist Daithi Sproule, Dooney-type event was a “I’m very happy about as well as the Doon Ceili great thing for Comhaltas Band (whose members to support,” he added. “It’s included O’Brien) and in so important to encourage a duo with guitarist Brian young musicians, to nur- Looking to buy Miller (of the group Bua), ture that next generation Burials in among others. who will help carry on the Massachusetts Gourley was actually on tradition, and an event in the his way to New York City, like this is just the way or Ireland where he planned to live, to do it. Hopefully, the when he stopped in Boston seed has been planted, Boston Area? this past January. After and there will be more a few weeks, he changed participants in years to Or perhaps your looking for his relocation plans and come.” Gormley that getaway out in the Berkshires. Funeral Home 617-323-8600 Jack Conboy Exclusive Buyers Agent 781-799-7706 Large Format Printing 2055 Centre Street [email protected] Billboards • Banners West Roxbury, MA 1022 Morrissey Boulevard, Dorchester From the Berkshires to Boston 617-282-2100 www.Gormleyfuneral.com Reliability • Integrity • Trust carrolladvertising.com Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com November 2013 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 15 Moonbox presenting ‘Earnest’ in Boston (Continued from page 9) a lot of my teachers were tions since its inception I’m hoping we can bring to AOC: And being a mu- saying, “You should try four seasons ago. this production is vitality sical person and growing directing. You should try AOC: It’s been so and immediacy. I think a up with bluegrass and design. You should really wonderful. [Founder/pro- lot of productions of Wilde roots music, those are the look at the broader world ducer] Sharman Altshuler [risk] sounding like a mu- descendants of old Irish of theater and being be- and I started talking about seum piece . . . I think it’s ballads and the popular hind the scenes.” this by saying, “Gosh, it very easy to get caught up music in Ireland and Eng- BIR: And so you made would be fun to do a show, in the language and just land and parts of Scotland the shift? wouldn’t it?” I thought we celebrate the wittiness of at that time. AOC: My vocal develop- were going to do it in some- the play . . . comedy comes BIR: So you began your ment had sort of stalled body’s church basement. from character and one creative career as a singer. out, which can happen at And if we were lucky we’d of the things that I saw AOC: I grew up in a certain points in your life have a keyboard and I when we were casting was pretty musical family and because it’s a body part would make costumes out that this group of actors, I thought of myself as a like any other. So in des- of old socks or something. this group of interpreters, musician first. I began my peration I finally agreed I thought it would be ter- are really extraordinarily artistic career as a vocal to try directing a show rific fun but I didn’t think vital and energetic people. The cast of “The Importance of Being Earnest” – performer. And with vocal – a musical production it would be anything like They bring a real human Glen Moore, Poornima Kirby, Cat Claus and Andrew performers, it’s a lot like of Shakespeare’s “Twelfth what it’s become. I feel so energy and relate-abili- Winson – playing November 22 - December 14 atThe training to be a gymnast. Night” – and it was prob- lucky to be surrounded by ty to what they’re saying. Boston Center for the Arts. You spend a lot of time ably the most fun I had so many people who are And I think that makes Photo Sharman Altshuler practicing. You don’t go had in my life at that point. so passionate about what the text that much fun- out very much. You go I was just amazed. It was they do. And so good at nier – having a production are making their Moonbox her comic timing is unbe- to musical lessons when all the things I loved about what they do. that’s really grounded in debuts with this produc- lievable. Her sense of her other kids are outside theater and about music BIR: Why was it signifi- character, that’s really tion. body and her awareness of playing in the sunshine. and none of the things I cant to add “The Impor- human, that’s really ap- AOC: I love working her own facial expressions I went to Oberlin to study disliked. tance of Being Earnest” proachable. with people I’ve worked is extraordinary. But at opera and sort of midway BIR: And you’ve been to your season? BIR: About half your with before because you the same time, getting her through my Oberlin career part of Moonbox Produc- AOC: One of the things “Earnest” cast members do develop a sort of short- to internalize this Victo- hand . . . But working with rian kind of restrained, new talent is one of the controlled movement has things Moonbox is really been one of the things I’ve committed to, working able to help her most with. with Boston talent specifi- And it’s something that cally. A lot of the people in she can carry forward into this cast are really gifted any other performance of performers who may not this kind. That’s one of have had the chance to the fun parts about work- interpret this kind of ing with a group of people material before, or to in- you haven’t worked with terpret it at this level. So before. You can find ex- it’s really exciting to work traordinary strengths. with them and help them R. J. Donovan is Edi- find the cadence and the tor and Publisher of on- rhythms and all that kind stageboston.com. of thing. *** BIR: Can you give me Moonbox Productions’ a “for instance?” “The Importance of Be- AOC: Cat Claus, who’s ing Earnest,” Nov. 22- playing Gwendolen, actu- Dec. 14, at The Boston ally comes from a clown- Center for the Arts Plaza ing background. She Theatre, 539 Tremont spent a lot of her early Street, Boston. Tickets: years in Circus Smirkus – 617-933-8600 or boston- the [international] youth theatrescene.com. circus program – and so

PUZZLE SOLUTION FROM PAGE 16 Moran Thistlethwaite in Arts

Runover hed:

Runover hed Waiting for Godot

Page 16 November 2013 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com The Irish Language by Philip Mac AnGhabhann Celtic

All nouns in Irish have gender – either mas- Cross culine or feminine. Most of these are arbitrary. Cailín, “girl”, for example, is not feminine as we would expect but is masculine while iníon Words “daughter” and máthair “mother” are feminine. The Irish These arbitrary assignments to “gender” have nothing to do with the sex of a person or thing crosswords are but are simply made up by Irish grammarians centuries ago to account for the linguistic a service of an changes each undergoes. Ireland-based Here is a list of twenty common nouns, ten of each gender, most of which you have already website which learned: provides Irish Feminine Singular Plural “river” abhainn abhann Family Coats of “woman” bean mná “church” eaglais eaglaise Arms by email. “daughter” iníon iníne You are invited “ship” long loinge “mother” máthair máthar “fire” tine tine to visit “night” oíche oíche “wind” gaoth gaothe www. “kitchen” cistin cistine bigwood.com/ Masculine Singular Plural “boat” bád báid heraldry “cat” cat cait “door” doras dorais \ “son” mac mic “house” teach tí ACROSS 15. Cis sang about the outer covers. (7) “fish” iasc éisc 1. Tricky mule icon. (anag.) One of the 32, the east of 17. Viol air to pasta dish. (7) “pen” peann pinn or penna which forms part of the Golden Vale. (6,8) 21. Anger evident when land is taken from this coun- “shop” síopa síopa 8. Mischievous spirit in Leitrim procession. (3) try! (3) “man” fear fir 9. B.A. loves to confuse and forgive sins. (7) 23. Hotel that is free for Yeats lake retreat? (3) “hat” hata hata 12. Part of Castlecomer otherwise in decay. (3) 25. A malt brewed in the Mediterranean. (5) 13. British Rail initially at unruly child. (4) 30. Nothing very loud is just not on. (3) 14. Southern vehicle will leave its mark. (4) Can you see any patterns here? “Woman” to 31. I turn to Italian city shrouded in mystery. (5) 16. Pleasurable time had in Westport reattribution. (5) “women” is clearly irregular. 33. Soft boreen is flat. (5) 18. The French lay out in the back lane. (5) 34. Tear around at speed in Connemara territory. (4) Feminine nouns tend to add a “slender vowel” 20. Wavy foreign dagger used in Limerick rising. (4) suffix, masculine nouns tend to “slenderize” 35. Late ruffle of duck. (4) 22. “ ’Tis distance lends enchantment to the ——,” 38. Barrel causing nostalgia for turn-over tax! (3) internally. Both genders have some nouns Thomas Campbell (4) that are identical in form from singular to 24. Criminal rev. (anag.) Longford town flower! (5,6) Puzzle answers on Page 15 plural – but so does English (“deer”/”deer” and 26. Last word in Tuam enjoyment. (4) “sheep”/”sheep”. 27. South East no reversal for 2 down. (4) 28. Bottom line figure in potato tally. (5) Irish grammarians have identified four “de- 29. “Curses are like young chickens, they always come clensions” of nouns. A declension is to nouns home to ——.” Robert Southey. (5) Irish Wisdom what a paradigm (pronounced /PAIR-uh-dime/) 32. Stumble on day out. (4) is to verbs. A listing of the forms of a noun that “People live in each other’s shelter.” 34. Or at odds with the duty list. (4) “The world would not make a racehorse of a donkey.” differ from the Singular Subject of a sentence 36. “All moanday, tearsday, wailsday, thumpsday, – such as “The house is …” (called the Nomina- “You are not a fully fledged sailor unless you have frightday, shatterday till the fear of the —” James sailed under full sail,” “and you have not built a wall tive Case). Declensions I, 3, and 4 are “mostly Joyce (3) masculine” while the Second Declension is unless you have rounded a corner.” 37. Been far over to Offaly village near Clonmacnoise, “There is no strength without unity.” “mostly feminine with a few exceptions”, founded in 492 by St. Gallen? (7) Notice the “mostly” and “with a few ex- “You must live with a person to know a person. If 38. Five take first class return by way of Rome. (3) you want to know me come and live with me.” ceptions.” There are also better than fifteen 39. Let Con lose rent over capital thoroughfare. (8,6) “irregular” nouns such as bean/mrá. At the “Praise the young and they will blossom” same time there are dozens of ‘Variants” to “The raggy colt often made a powerful horse.” DOWN “Age is honorable and youth is noble.” every rule. Irish dictionaries will list a noun, 1. Or cam cracks Sir. (anag) Old Monaghan town, “writing pen”, for example” as peann m1. This “Youth does not mind where it sets its foot.” world famous for lace. (14) “Both your friend and your enemy think you will means that the word peann is masculine of 2. Is nut able to bring together bodies of soldiers? (5) the first declension. However, some texts say never die.” 3. Irishman comes back to control the flow of liquid. (3) “The well fed does not understand the lean.” that the plural of peann is penna (in Gal- 4. Rail about the teller of porkies. (4) way) – so much for “standardization” in Irish. “He who comes with a story to you brings two away 5. Doctor takes good man to the majority back in from you” Tarbert sometimes. (4) It also means that some one, some where, at “Quiet people are well able to look after themselves.” 6. Portion of Adare lettuce patch is rented out again. (5) “A friend’s eye is a good mirror.” some time has classified each noun as such. 7. Town’s water went turbulent in Tyrone angling This is meaningless, based upon old Latin “It is the good horse that draws its own cart.” centre at the confluence of the Strule and Glenelly. (14) “A lock is better than suspicion.” grammars. Native speakers simply learn by 10. Tall C.O. by not being ruffled led us to east Cork “Two thirds of the work is the semblance.” repetition – and you will, too. resort with excellent sea fishing. (11) “He who gets a name for early rising can stay in bed 11. “I can’t talk religion to a man with bodily hunger until midday.” You will learn simply and slowly. Your first in his —s.” G.B. Shaw. (3) “He who gets a name for early rising can stay in bed clue as to whether or not a noun is masculine 13. Pair will provide a tight support. (5) until midday.” or feminine is by the shape of a word that modi- fies or limits it, the adjective. If it is lenited then the noun is feminine; if it is not lenited ADVERTISEMENT the noun is masculine. This will work unless the noun begins with l, n, or r or s followed by a consonant – sc, sl, sm, sn.

Using the nouns above, and remembering Photography by that the plural of “the” an is na, see if you can translate the following into Irish. 1.)“This is my son, Anthony.” 2.) “Those men Image Photo Service speak Irish.” 3.) “And yourself?” 4.) “How many nights?” 5.) “Is that a big fish?” 6.) “Bridget has three cats. 7.) “The doors were shut.” 8.) “I will • Weddings • Anniversaries see the ships.” 9.) “Didn’t Mary have sons and daughters?” 10.) “My daughter is big.” • Banquets • Portraits

Answers: 1.) Is é mo mhac seo, Antaine. 2.) • Reunions Tá Gaelge ag na fir sin. 3.) Agus tú-fhéin? 4.) Cá mhéad oíche? 5.) An iasc mor sin é? 6.) Tá • Groups • Families trí cait ag Bríd. 7.) Bhí na dorais dúnta. 8.) Feicfidh mé na loinge. 9.) Nach raibh Máire mic agus iníne? 10.) Tá mo hiníon mhor. • Special Occasions

Now you know why the famous Scottish golf club “Glen Eagles” is not the “Glen of the Eagles” (617) 291-6609 but rather “Glen of the Churches.” The official photographers of the Boston Irish Reporter Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com November 2013 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 17 The 2013 Boston Irish Honors Luncheon Photos by Margaret Brett Hastings THE BLESSING Following is the invocation and blessing given by the Rev. Thomas B. Kennedy at the 2013 Boston Irish Honors luncheon: “O God, our creator, sustainer and redeemer, we give you thanks for this day, for the gift of life and for the abundant blessings bestowed on your creation. We thank you for the work and voice given by the Boston Irish Reporter to issues and events that inform your citizenry. We thank you for the way the Reporter reveals for us the spirit of those who sustain your commonweal in Boston and beyond. The lives and stories recounted by the show the special contribution made by this Irish Diaspora as examples of your handiwork. “As we now celebrate the many accomplishments of the Boston Irish Reporter and the honorees, past and present, we thank you for the lives present and past of those individuals and family we honor today: Senate President Theresa Murray, Robert A. Mulligan, Gerald A. Mulligan & family, the late John P. Driscoll, Jr. May we rejoice in their accomplishments wishing them God’s abiding embrace and blessing. “Let us also pray, in this season of Irish and World Series celebrations, for that which binds us together, the great game of baseball: It is you, Immortal and Invisible One, who is called the great Umpire in this game of life where we are unsure as to what uniform we should wear (yet always wearing our Red Sox). “While we may be Angels in spirit, Yankees in thrift, Padres of devotion; when in reality we are Giants in pride, Dodgers of responsibility, Brewers of discord and Tigers in ambition. When it comes to faith, we find ourselves in the minor leagues. When it comes to good works, we strike out. When it comes to knowledge of your word, we are not even sure of the ground rules. When it calls for faithfulness, we ground into double plays. “Therefore, we are thankful for your mercy when we are in foul territory; thankful for your forgiveness when we commit one error after another; thankful for your uplifting spirit when we are in the pitfalls of a slump. “Let our game plan O God, be your will, and our response be a sell-out crowd, with standing room only. And when our number is retired here on earth, may we head for your home plate, and rejoice to hear your clarion call, “Cardinals fly away; Red Sox win, knowing we are “safe.” (adapted, TBK) “As the goodness God divided five loaves and two fishes among five thousand, may the blessing of the One who multiplied that modest portion be upon our share in this abundant meal. “To the One who is able to keep us from falling, and lift us from the dark valley of despair to the bright mountains of hope, from the midnight of desperation to the daybreak of joy; to God be power and authority for ever and ever. In his Son’s name, Jesus Christ, we pray. Amen.”

Event chairman Edmund Murphy

Barry Hynes Paraclete Center Connie Koutoujian, Margaret Stapleton, Cathleen McGrail of the Eire Society

Mary Swanton, M. L. Greenidge Pope John Paul II Catholic Academy Jim Hunt Jr. Jack Joyce, Mary Bulger, Bill Bulger Page 18 November 2013 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com The Boston Irish Honors 2013 for Distinguished Public Service

Senate President Therese Murray stands at the rostrum inside the Senate Chambers in March 2007. Gov. Deval Patrick is at right. AP Photo/Kevin Mingora The word on Sen. Murray: She cares By Mike Deehan health care and research. A trilateral Murray’s Irish roots cover the entire and community relations jobs led to a In her nearly seven years as president research project between UMass Dart- island. Her great grandparents and other position as Director of Mitigation for of the Massachusetts Senate, Therese mouth and universities in Ireland and ancestors hailed from Limerick, Kerry, the Massachusetts Highway Depart- Murray of Plymouth has led the cham- Finland resulted from a 2011 trip to Dublin, Galeway, Cork and Belfast. ment. After Gov. William Weld was ber through an unprecedented economic Scandinavia. “Ireland is my ancestral country,” she elected in 1990, Murray says she was crisis, several tough budget cycles, the “We have companies in Europe and said. “The whole island. I don’t sepa- fired from MassHighway when the new installation of a nation-leading health the European Union, particularly in rate it out.” Republican administration sought to care system and ambitious reform Ireland, Northern Ireland, that are Therese Hollum was born in Boston oust Democrats in the ranks. agendas. complementary to our companies and in 1947 to Richard and Helena Hollum. “They had let me go because I was a Her efforts at home and abroad to our universities here and the businesses Along with their five daughters, the Democrat, the first year,” Murray said. enhance Massachusetts’ reputation and that we built, so it’s a natural partner- Hollums found their way to Shepton The early 1990s saw Murray, now reach have been felt from the waterfront ship,” she said. Street in St. Mark’s Parish in Dorches- a single mother, take on what some towns of South Shore and Cape Cod The commonwealth also has eco- ter after stints in Mission Hill and St. around her had long urged her to do: district to foreign board rooms and nomic interests in the European market. Matthew’s Parish. An introduction to run for office herself. She challenged distant capitals. “The European companies want to the working world quickly followed a 20-year incumbent senator and won. Murray sat down with the Reporter come here, the European researches a parochial education for the Hollum Murray describes herself as a fiscal recently to talk about her work in the want to combine their research with sisters, with each member of the family conservative who cares deeply about Senate, her travel on behalf of the state our research and those are the connec- seeking employment as soon as they social issues such as health care and and what plans she’s made for the next tions we’re making,” Murray said. The could to help out the family. children’s’ issues. “I also care about our stage of her career. outreach done by herself, Gov. Deval By her teens, Murray was working at economy. I care about taxing people, Murray made history in 2007 when Patrick and others has helped lead to a newly developed passion: politics. A especially in this climate, when they’re she succeeded Sen. Robert Travaglini as connections between Ulster University job opportunity from her uncle led to not making it” she said. Senate President after the East Boston and Queen’s University of Belfast in involvement with Edward Kennedy’s Murray entered the Legislature in Democrat left the chamber to join the Northern Ireland and the Dartmouth 1962 run to replace his brother, the 1993 in tune with the Bill Clinton White private sector. Elected by her fellow and Lowell UMass campuses stateside. new president, in the US Senate. From House and the fiscally conservative senators as the first female leader of When asked if she would enjoy a there, Murray continued to volunteer in Democratic Leadership Council. Her either of the Legislature’s branches, future in international relations after Democratic politics while establishing background with MassHighway didn’t Murray found herself elevated from her time in the Senate comes to an end, her professional career. mean an automatic seat on the Senate’s her post as Travaglini’s top budget she left the door open. Plymouth became her home after Transportation Committee, however. lieutenant to the president’s plush of- “Maybe, yeah. It’s something I like marriage and the birth of her daughter According to Murray, Weld’s Trans- fice.S he is term-limited as president to doing,” she said. Lauren. A series of human services portation Secretary, James Kerasiotes, only eight years and must step down by didn’t want her to sit on Transportation March of 2015. and Murray was assigned to work on Murray’s agenda of priorities for the human services legislation. current session betrays no hint that she’s Welfare and minimum wage were two prepared to slow down in the remaining issues Murray championed early in her year and a half of her term. Drinking Senate career when she led efforts to water and sewerage infrastructure, a reform and modernize the state’s poli- minimum wage increase and other cies. Two decades later, those programs major proposals are all on the docket are due for a legislative renovation. for this year. The Senate passed a major “You have to revisit it all. You can’t welfare reform bill this summer that is do major reforms like transportation or queued for House approval. economic development and not revisit Murray has travelled to Europe sev- it and see if there’s some tweaking you eral times since taking over for Trava- have to do or some changes you have glini. Many of the visits concern the to do,” Murray said. state’s burgeoning healthcare, biotech Once the laws are written and signed, and life sciences industries, with Mur- it’s up to the executive branch, under ray and other state officials seeking to the usually cost-conscious eye of the strengthen ties between Massachusetts’ governor, to maintain the program’s research infrastructure and European integrity and funding. companies. She has visited Belfast, “You write [the bills] and then you Dublin and Derry in 2009, 2010 and pass them and then they move along earlier this year to discuss coordinated Old times: A gathering of the Hollum clan. and they’re implemented by different Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com November 2013 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 19

The Boston Irish Honors 2013 Growing up with politics administrations. And then you find out Earlier this year, Murray floated the that the intent of the law is not being idea of possibly running for governor in followed by those administrations for 2014, saying that many had encouraged whatever reason,” Murray said. Pro- her to seek the corner office. While it gram budget cuts prompted by a bad doesn’t look like a statewide run is in economic climate could lead to the Murray’s future, it wasn’t the first time same sorts of problems the laws were she’d been seen as a potential candidate initially written to correct, she said. for higher office. “You see the same things happening “When Bill Delahunt stepped down, that were happening before and you say people wanted me to run for Congress. ‘why’s that?’ and you go and check. I said I have no desire to be down with Well, because none of these things are a bunch of squabbling people who being followed the way they should can’t get themselves together to come have been. That’s why we did welfare to agreement and move this country reform again,” Murray said. forward - [who] instead bring it to its The wards of Boston were Murray’s knees,” Murray said. first foray into politics when she grew Murray blames much of Washing- up in the heavily Irish neighborhoods ton’s gridlock on the Republican major- of Dorchester. She refutes the idea, ity, which she said has been “hijacked however, that the two candidates vy- by a very conservative group of people” ing to become the city’s next mayor who want to reshape and decrease the Senate President Therese Murray was the guest of honor at a dinner re- - both Irish-American men - show that role of government. Her relationship ception on June 12 to benefit the Dorchester YMCA at Venezia restaurant Boston’s politics are still divided along with the local GOP is far more cordial. in Dorchester’s Port Norfolk village. Now a Plymouth resident, Murray tribal lines. She meets each week with Minority spent her formative years in the neighborhood’s St. Mark’s parish. Above, “Boston looks nothing like the Boston Leader Bruce Tarr, one of just three Murray shows off an OFD bumper sticker, which was presented to her by I grew up in. I grew up in Roxbury and Republicans currently in the 40-mem- State Senator Linda Dorcena Forry, left, who introduced Murray at the Dorchester and never met a person of ber Senate, and affords the minority event. At right are Murray’s friends Cheryl Bartlett and Cheryl McEvoy. color until I was 16,” Murray said. The party the right to request each senator’s Ed Forry photo city is now open, more diverse and vote be on the record. Legislation that younger than the city her family left in could otherwise be pushed through by mingham, then Travaglini and myself their slim numbers would otherwise the 1970s due to concerns about crime. the overwhelming Democratic majority have said okay, for the good of the body, enjoy. Murray maintains that debate Both candidates, West Roxbury City can be forced into debate. there should be debate. It shouldn’t be with Tarr and the Senators across the Councilor At-Large John Connolly and “Under our rules, they don’t have a one-sided.” Murray said. aisle is good for legislation and the state. Dorchester Rep. Martin Walsh, repre- roll call. They have to have 15 people. Murray admits that some members of “You’re not going to get all sides of the sent that new city and “just happen to But since they’ve been shrinking, first her Democratic caucus don’t like that story unless you do that,” Murray said. be Irish men,” Murray says. [former Senate President Thomas] Bir- the Republicans wield more power than ORIGINAL BROADWAY CAST | PHOTO BY FRANK OCKENFELS JANUARY 7-19UBOSTON OPERA HOUSE 800-982-2787UBroadwayInBoston.comUBox Office Hours: Mon – Fri 10am – 5pm Groups (10+) Save! Call: 617-482-8616 Page 20 November 2013 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com The Boston Irish Honors 2013 Exemplary Boston Irish Family ‘Big Joe’ Mulligan set the pace for his growing family By Jack Thomas vard. As chronicled by Bill Nowlin To learn about the Mulligans of in the BioProject of the Society for Boston, we go back to Ireland, back American Baseball Research, Big Joe to County Cork, and back to 1896, a held the Brooklyn Dodgers scoreless time of rebellion and revolution when for four innings in an exhibition game. the British laid waste to that greenest The legendary Connie Mack wanted of isles and hunted down men and even the Holy Cross junior to join the Phila- boys they considered too patriotic, too delphia Athletics, but his father said Irish, too Catholic. no – Joseph Ignatius Mulligan would Like many of the Irish struggling remain at Holy Cross. under British rule, the Mulligan ances- After graduation at age 20, Big Joe tors lived in oppression. When Irish signed with the Red Sox, and his first rebels asked the family to store guns start opened with a hopeful omen: The Mulligan boys: Gerry and his wife Lyn posing for a picture in Florence, for resistance against the British, what Boston scored nine runs in the first Italy, above; below left; the late Joe Jr.; and retired Judge Bob. could they say? The great-grandfather inning. Although Big Joe gave up 13 of today’s Mulligans feared for his hits, he coasted to a 16-3 win over the son, Tom, 16, and pondered moving White Sox. He pitched in 14 games his family to America. in 1934, but the victory over Chicago At the same time, young Tom had a was the only game of record in his confrontation at school with the Chris- major league career. After stints in the tian Brothers, whose appetite for disci- minors with Memphis, Little Rock, and plining students Tom thought sadistic. Wilkes-Barre, he signed with the Boston One day at recess, the boys needed a Braves, but pitched only exhibition fourth for a game of street tennis, and games and retired from baseball with a Christian Brother volunteered. an unusual record. The ball hit a crack. Tom claimed As noted by Nowlin, having recorded the point. The cleric said no, but Tom one win and no loss, Big Joe had a insisted. After recess, the cleric sum- pitching percentage of 1.000. Having moned Tom to be punished for having fielded the ball 12 times with no errors, challenged a Christian Brother. As the he could boast a fielding percentage brother was smacking Tom, the boy of 1.000. Alas, however, in 12 trips to rebelled, threw a slate at the cleric, and the plate, Big Joe struck out 10 times, ran home, pursued all the way by the never hit safely, and ended his career Christian Brother. When Tom’s father with a batting average of .000. After time, in a practice game, when he struck everybody wanted to meet dad,” recalls heard both sides, he turned to the cleric baseball, he sold appliances throughout out Babe Ruth. Gerry. “He’d say, ‘Isn’t this silly – it and said, “Get off my property,” and New England, and in 1986, at 72, he “My father told me that one day, the was 30 years ago I played baseball, soon after, Tom and his father were on died at home of cancer. Sox and Yankees were on the same train and these guys think it’s a big deal.’ “ their way to America, to be followed, “When dad died, I cleaned out his to New York,” says Bob, “and while the In the West Roxbury home where the in the ensuing decade, by Tom’s mother house,” says Gerry. “His mother had players were crowded in one car, Babe Mulligan Brothers were raised, along and nine siblings. kept a box of stuff, scorecards, pro- Ruth had his own railroad car. Ruth with two sisters, Irish ranked third, *** grams, and a letter from the Red Sox came into the car occupied by every- America second, and in first place was One hundred and seventeen years telling dad how much he’d receive body else and said to the porter: ‘I want the Roman Catholic Church. later, as an autumn sun slants into from the World Series gate. In those a pitcher of Old-Fashioneds delivered “My grandfather, Tom, was born the dining room at the Parker House days, everybody got a cut, but it was to my car immediately.’ The porter in Ireland,” says Bob, “but like many in Boston, two descendant Mulligan less than $25. There were about five said, ‘Can’t do it, Mr. Ruth. We’re in immigrants, he had a greater love for brothers, Bob, 70, a retired judge, and baseballs, too, that, I suppose, once had Connecticut, a dry state.’ Ruth was not America than people born here, because Gerry, 67, a retired banker, are dining fantastic autographs, but over the years, pleased. ‘Then bring ‘em to me when America gave him the opportunity to on salmon, greens, and iced tea and in attics and basements, the signatures we get out of this god-damn state.’ “ be successful, to have houses in West telling the tale of how the Mulligans had worn away, and now I wonder who As years went by, Big Joe was amazed Roxbury and Scituate, and to send his went from the despair of 19th- century signed them.” at the prestige he enjoyed based on a children to college. So, did he have that Cork to the amenity of 21st-century As a sales representative throughout Red Sox career that involved one year, nostalgic, rosy view of lost opportuni- Boston, where the family has made its New England, Big Joe regaled custom- one victory. ties in Ireland? No.” mark in law, politics, business, finance, ers and colleagues with tales about his “Long after he left baseball, we’d go He was a self-educated man, says insurance, education, and even sports, year in the big leagues, including the to events, like sportswriter dinners, and Gerry. “He disdained television. The in the person of Big Joe Mulligan, who only things I remember my grandpar- pitched for the Boston Red Sox in the ents watching are Ed Sullivan, Huntley- 1930s and never lost a game, although, Brinkley, and George Burns and Gracie truth be told, he won only one game. Allen. Other than that, the television “At six-foot-four, Big Joe was one was turned off, and my grandfather read Among admirers of the family is Hill of the best pitchers ever at Holy Holliday co-founder Jack Connors, a books, mostly history, mostly about Cross, according to the Worcester America. He knew Boston so well that philanthropist and leading voice among Evening Gazette. At age 19, a junior, the Irish in Boston. “The Mulligan fam- he had a story about every corner. In the Big Joe defeated three power- ‘40s, he had an office onS tuart Street, ily has brought quality, integrity, style, ful teams in eight days – Boston and a sense of humor to everything and he lunched so often at Jake Wirth College, Yale, and Harvard. As that they gave him one of the tables, they’ve done,” he says. “Their parents chronicled by Bill Nowlin in the must have been something special.” which I have in my home.” BioProject of the Society for Ameri- When Mulligans boast, it’s not Lunch with the Mulligan brothers is can Baseball Research, Big Joe held a romp through the lore of a traditional about themselves, but about siblings, the Brooklyn Dodgers scoreless including two sisters, Jane Mulligan Irish family, and especially tales about for four innings in an exhibition their father, Big Joe Mulligan, and the of Orleans, a retired schoolteacher, game. The legendary Connie Mack and Joan Roecklein of Rhode Island, summer of ’34 when he had his moment wanted the Holy Cross junior to on the mound at Fenway Park. a retired insurance examiner. join the Philadelphia Athletics, but At lunch, for example, Gerry is proud At six-foot-four, Big Joe was one of his father said no – Joseph Ignatius the best pitchers ever at Holy Cross, to rattle off his brother’s achievements. Mulligan would remain at Holy “Bob is pretty humble and his humor according to the Worcester Evening Cross.” Gazette. At age 19, a junior, Big Joe is self-deprecating, but he was very ac- defeated three powerful teams in eight complished in war, in law, and on the days – Boston College, Yale, and Har- bench. He was a second lieutenant in the Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com November 2013 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 21

The Boston Irish Honors 2013 ‘Big Joe’ set the pace for the Mulligan family Army in Korea and in combat, he won three bronze stars with a V for valor. As a prosecutor, he served as state assistant attorney general and U.S. attorney in Massachusetts, and then, on the bench, he was a judge for 33 years, serving first at Boston Municipal Court, then as chief justice of Superior Court and finally as chief justice of administration and management of all the courts in the Commonwealth.” At the Parker House lunch, there’s an unseen guest – the beloved older Mulligan brother, Joe, who died in 2008, and in a loving gesture to his memory, the Mulligan Brothers invite to the lunch his son, Joseph III, 48, who works for the city of Boston and is responsible for design and construction of city property, overseeing a staff of 16 and 94 projects valued at half a billion dollars. The most celebrated Mulligan brother, Joseph Jr., was a confidant of former Gov. Edward King and former Mayor Ray Flynn. In a 40 year-career, he was Boston’s corporation counsel and licensing commissioner, a Suffolk County assistant district attorney, a Joe Mulligan Jr. was one of 50 investors in a piece of the ould sod: Benners’ Hotel in Dingle. member of the state Ethics Commis- sion, and a partner in the noted law The property was bought for $100,000, is a candidate for mayor of Boston. Well, the boss’s car didn’t make out firmR eed & Mulligan, the Reed being and the annual dividend was a free stay “I ran as a Democrat,” recalls Gerry, well against Joe’s truck, and so, he Barry Reed, author of “The Verdict,” for five days at the hotel, which at the “but everybody in my family had reg- was fired.O ur father could not believe which David Mamet adapted into a time was worth about $90. Of course, istered Republican to oppose Curley, it. “What do you mean you got fired? movie in 1982, starring Paul Newman to take advantage of the dividend, it and so they had to change registration Nobody’s ever been fired by Edison.” and James Mason. would cost you had to pay $1,000 in to vote for me in the primary.” While St. Patrick’s Day was not a To the Mulligan Brothers, however, travel costs. Over time, Benner’s hotel “Did you lose by much?” big deal, Christmas celebrations are more important than Joe’s professional was the center of much laughter, great “Yes.” memorable. “My grandfather would accomplishments was his role in the joy and many stories, but in the end, Joseph III, who lost a bid for City invite siblings and spouses, all our family, and the lunch is permeated by when the roof collapsed, our investment Council in 1999, is asked if he’d run great aunts,” says Bob, “and in the Irish their respect for him. went down the drain.” again. “No,” he says, smiling. “It’s a tradition, the children were expected “My brother was very protective and For the Mulligans, the cornerstone young man’s game. to perform, a poem or something. My generous to us,” says Bob, “helping us is family and faith, says Robert K. How, in Gerry’s case, does an Irish- grandfather would give you a drink and into maturity, and then with our careers, Sheridan, retired president of Savings man end up in finance, a field tradi- offer you a second, but never a third. taking care of us, extremely generous. Bank Life Insurance Company of tionally dominated by Yankees? Gerry He knew the Irish have a problem with He was educated by my parents that if Massachusetts. “They exemplify the pauses. “Is that a trick question?” he alcohol.” Two generations later, that you are the oldest child, you take care essence of being Irish. It’s obvious asks, laughing. warning echoes in the family. of your brothers and sisters, and he took that their parents instilled in them the After Boston Latin School and Col- “We were brought up not to drink that seriously. He was brighter than I conviction that principle, rectitude, and lege of the Holy Cross, he studied at much,” says Gerry, sipping iced tea. am, and brighter than Gerry, although values must be part of their emotional Georgetown University Law Center “My father said that it doesn’t matter Gerry is very bright, too. It’s a poor and mental DNA, and that ethos is and then began work as a lawyer at what everybody else does, but that I was family that cannot afford one gentle- passed to succeeding generations.” the Federal Reserve Board, concentrat- not to order alcohol at lunch, because man, and in our family, the gentleman Among Mulligans, politics is as ing on banking regulations. “I liked that would contribute to the assumption was my brother Joe.” angular as light through Irish crystal, banking and applied to be a banker, that the Irish are drunks.” Of all the Mulligans, Joe was the sometimes Irish, sometimes Catholic, but I needed experience in accounting Bob raises a finger: “But that doesn’t most Irish. As Bob says, “Joe was more sometimes Republican, sometimes and economics, and so, when a friend mean we’re all teetotalers.” Irish than our grandfather, who was Democrat. advised me to go to business school, I Growing up, the Mullligans recall born in Ireland.” Joe traveled to Ire- For example, Irish identity aside, did, at Harvard, and became a banker.” no discrimination by or against the land more than 30 times and promoted the family repudiated that early 20th- And he succeeded, having served family. “We were sensitive that we cross-fertilization of Boston and Irish century icon of Irish politics, Mayor as Massachusetts Commissioner of were Irish,” says Bob. “My grandfather cultures, especially regarding music, James Michael Curley, largely, says Banks, president of First Mutual of had pride in anyone Irish who gained and in particular an Irish band, The Gerry, because Cardinal O’Connell Boston, president of Andover Bancorp, prominence, like Gracie Allen, and my Chieftains, who would play at Boston opposed Curley. “My grandmother’s president of LSB Corp, and chair of father loved it when Holy Cross beat Symphony Hall and then bunk with sister was paymaster for Boston under Savings Bank Life Insurance, not to Harvard. “But they never talked about Joe Mulligan’s family. Curley’s predecessor (Andrew James mention professorships at Babson Jews or Protestants in a derogatory Joseph III remembers his father Peters),” says Gerry, “and when Curley College and Suffolk University Law way. It was just that, in those days, returning from journeys to Ireland was elected, he went to my grandfather School. the Catholic religion was believed to with amusing stories and trinkets for for money. My grandfather told Curley The Mulligan brothers remember be the one, true religion.” his sons, an Irish stamp or coin and, he didn’t like his approach, and Curley their West Roxbury home as a safe, Near the end of lunch, the Mulligans on one occasion, a rock of brilliant said: ‘Well, I know your sister has a job stimulating, and peaceful environment, make a final expression of affection for green Connemara marble. As Joseph with the city, and I assume she wants to filled with family celebrations and, their brother Joe. “If he had been here,” III recalled in the eulogy he delivered, keep it.’ My family thought Curley was always, humor, and the two brothers Bob confesses, “we might have had a his father had acquired the Connemara a bad image of the Irish, that he was cannot wait to relate their brother’s beer, and you would have heard a lot marble one night “at great risk, by ‘old Irish,’ and not in the good sense.” folly one summer when he worked for more, funny stories.” climbing a fence near a quarry, and The Mulligans being Irish, though, the utility company, Boston Edison. It’s mid-afternoon when the check ar- then being chased across a field by an where are the politicians in the family? “My father was good at getting us rives, and Bob reaches for it, only to be irate donkey.” Two of them, it turns out, are sitting summer jobs there,” says Bob. “My outmaneuvered by the more agile man Joe Jr. raised money for Irish causes, at the luncheon table, although their brother Joe was 16 and working at from the Irish Reporter, who insists too, and along with Jack Connors and pilgrimages in politics were shorter Edison in Dorchester when they told that the newspaper will pay for lunch. the late news reporter John Henning, he than Big Joe’s career in baseball. him one day to get sandwiches and to Bob grimaces. “What’s the matter?” invested in Benner’s Hotel in Dingle, In 1972, at age 25, Gerry ran for state take the two-and-a-half ton truck. As asks the Irish Reporter. “If I had known a deal that held more prospect for play representative from West Roxbury and Joe was driving out of the yard, the that,” says Bob, “I’d have ordered the than profit. As Connors recalls, “There lost to Michael Connolly, whose son boss was driving in, and Joe hit him. lobster.” were 50 of us who each invested $2,000. Page 22 November 2013 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com The Boston Irish Honors 2013 In Memory of John P. Driscoll, Jr.

JOHN P. DRISCOLL ON THE MOVE: Jack Driscoll worked every day to help his city The noted Boston attorney a leap from that to get involved family house in Somerville, he John Patrick Driscoll died in with the plague of drugs. Drugs had furnished it and even had a November 2009 at the age of are a societal problem. My new stove and frigidaire. One 77. The eulogies followed in focus has been on the urban of my sisters once asked my full flow, penetrating in their situation. There are so many mother, ‘Where did you spend warmth and admiration for the urban neighborhoods that have your honeymoon?’ generous, mentoring life of a had to deal with the scourge of “‘What are you talking man who treated everyone he drugs.” about? ‘We went home to the came into contact with as a Today, Jack Driscoll is a part- house. Your father had every- person who offered something ner at the Boston law firm of thing set up for me.’” of value to the community. Nutter, McClennen & Fish, and “There were five of us born in “When I remember John a member of the firm’s Public the 1930s – Mary was the first. Driscoll, what comes to mind Policy Group. He represents Five of us were born healthy are three themes,” says his private and public companies, – Mary, Jack, Leo, Irene, and nephew Ed Murphy. “First, partnerships, banks, financial Marguerite. She lost two ba- he was a mentor. He gave so services firms, real estate de- bies. My sister Mary always John and Jane (Bourque) Driscoll march down the aisle freely of his time, as well as his velopers, and educational insti- referred to me as ‘my oldest and begin a new chapter of family life in a Somerville three- resources to so many people, tutions, and counsels clients in brother.’ It made everyone decker … non-profits, and charities. I the organization of companies, believe I was the oldest.” include myself in that number. contracts, venture capital, Jack has fond memories of “Secondly, I recall how corporate finance, business his father’s efforts in support- John’s wake was so much a transactions, corporate gover- ing the young family. reflection of the kind of man nance, securities, mergers and “In the late 1930’s he got a he was. At one end of the line acquisitions and government job as a janitor with the city of were titans of law, business, and regulation of business. Somerville, and he ran the heat- government; at the other end But his real love seems to be ing plant for the high school, was a waiter from the Seaport in working with people in need City Hall, and the gym. My Hotel. That scene showed what and on public policy issues. father worked two jobs for 24 John Driscoll was all about. He In 1991, as president of the years – for the city and nights treated everyone with warmth, Boston Bar Association, he for the Railway Express over at respect, and value. To John, it spearheaded a new program, the Boston & Maine rail yards, was never about title or station The Boston Coalition Against so we did not see a whole hell with people. Drugs and Violence, and today, of a lot of him. Then on week- “The third theme is how he says, that decade-old effort ends he had a small contracting mentoring was so important is in need of rejuvenation and business, repairing houses and to John, whether with family re-birth. storefronts. members or others. Everyone The Somerville-born and- “He had three brothers he was important to him. He bred Driscoll traces his roots had brought over who would had this strong desire to give to Ireland, to the little spit of work with him: Pat and Gerry back, to help others, always land reaching out of County stayed, but Jim returned to … He is greeted at the White House by Hillary Clinton (the remembering that without the Cork known as the Beara Pen- Ireland.” His father, he says, president is behind them) during his work with the Coalition help and mentoring of others, insula. His father, John Patrick “had an extraordinary work for a Drug-Free America” … he might never have achieved Driscoll, emigrated to America ethic, plus a love of education.” all he did in life. from the village of Eyerise in In all, Jack’s father brought 15 “One thing about John was 1922 at the age of 23. to 20 people over, and only that he never forgot his roots The oldest of nine children, his brother Jim went back to – ever. He had so many trea- Jack Driscoll says of his fa- Ireland. sured relationships from his ther’s roots, “ It was a very Driscoll recalls that his fa- youth and beyond that he kept poor part of Ireland. He was ther had been sending money all his life.” educated to the sixth grade, and back to Ireland to buy a farm, settled in a boarding house in which was being worked by *** Charlestown. the returning brother Jim. “In Following are excerpts from “He had a tremendous work 1939 he said to my mother, ‘I an article on the life and times ethic. He got a job at the Everett think, Mary, we should be go- of John P. Driscoll that was gas works shoveling coal and ing home. I own this nice piece published in the Boston Irish got interested in boilers. At of land.’ My mother, who was Reporter in 2003: that time, MIT used to have a usually very soft spoken, said certificate program, and he took ‘Oh Jesus Mary and Joseph, By Ed Forry classes and earned a license have you lost your mind? What When Jack Driscoll was just as a third class engineer. He would you go back there for? a young Somerville attorney his was good with his hands, and This is where the opportunity … sailing off the Cape with his pal, Sen. Ted Kennedy … mother asked him to stop by St. he always had two jobs. He is, this is where you made your Catherine’s Rectory to pick up worked on furnaces and also in stake. We’re going to stay right some Mass cards. carpentry and painting.” here.’ There, he met and started The younger Jack Driscoll “He was so taken aback, talking with Rev. Frank Sul- related the remarkable story because she always said yes livan, a parish priest who also of his parents, who each came to everything. A week later he was executive director of the from the Beara. His mother wrote to his brother Jim and Catholic Charities in Somer- lived in Castletown Bear, about said you can buy the farm from ville and Cambridge. That six miles from Eyerise, but they me for whatever I put into it. chance encounter led the young never met until they attended Jim had 25 or 50 head of cattle attorney to volunteer his time an Irish dance in Boston. and a small family, and he was to Fr. Sullivan’s work. “He met an Irish girl, Mary a cut-glass image of my father. “I spent a lot of years with Sullivan, in Hibernian Hall “My father, he was an ex- Catholic Charities,” Driscoll on Dudley Street. She was a emplar. You look back and recalled in a recent interview domestic, working on Com- think, how could he do all that at his offices on the South monwealth Ave. Mrs. Sears he did?” Boston waterfront. “I have was her employer. John and Mary Driscoll’s been involved in helping the They married in 1930. My children went to grammar … and having some fun-time with a grandson. disadvantaged. It’s not much of father by then owned a three school with the Sisters of Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com November 2013 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 23

The Boston Irish Honors 2013 He worked every day to help his city thrive St. Joseph at the St. Theresa But there was no meeting of ing member. School, which was the name of the other players, no awards Driscoll currently is a board the school at St. Catherine of ceremony for the all-scholastic member of the Freedom Trail Sienna parish. His sisters and squad of 1954- until last sum- Foundation and the Catholic brothers attended Somerville mer. Schools Foundation. He is a High, but his father had a dif- In June 2002, Driscoll and trustee of the Massachusetts ferent idea for son Jack. the other 21 scholar-athletes Eye and Ear Infirmary, and “I had been playing a lot were invited to New York to be a member of Greater Boston of athletics, and my father honored on the anniversary of Legal Services and the Board said, ‘Maybe you would like their selection to the Academic of Advisors of the Morin Center to be with the brothers or the All-American Football Team. for Banking Law of Boston priests at Malden Catholic or The celebration took place on University School of Law. He BC High?’ Of our group (of June 27 at the New York Hilton. also serves as a director of the friends), three or four went to “Being the only athlete from Tech Law Group, Inc., and the Malden Catholic, two to BC a Division II school chosen for Community Anti-Drug Coali- High. Malden Catholic had the Academic All-American tions of America, and chair of been Catholic League champs team, among so many talented The Boston Coalition Against for 19 years in a row.” So young athletes from the nation’s pow- Drugs and Violence. Jack Driscoll enrolled at Mal- erhouse programs, was a great He is a former trustee of the den Catholic, and eventually honor,” said Driscoll. “Sports Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, lettered for three years as a helped teach me the value of Good Samaritan Hospice, lineman on the championship teamwork, discipline, hard Regis College, Belmont Hill team. work and the importance of School, Catholic Charities of “I wasn’t there three weeks being part of something larger the Archdiocese of Boston, when a brother saw me talking than yourself. These are values and Massachusetts Continuing with another boy in class, and that I have carried throughout Legal Education, Inc. He is for- he cuffed me on the side of the my life and in everything I do.” mer president of the TechLaw Police Department. That plus the fact you got clean head,” Driscoll remembers. In New York, he was pleased Group, Inc., and a former di- “We were a lucky city,” he were the two victories.” “I made the mistake of telling to meet for the first time with rector of the American Ireland says, recalling how bad the The plan was greeted with my father about it. ‘You won’t fellow members of that first Fund and the Massachusetts crime wave was in those years, what Driscoll terms “a very believe what happened, dad,’ I honorary squad. Among them Association for the Blind. and reflecting the belief that chilly comment” by the chief said. ‘If I hear about that hap- were a Unitarian Minister, the He served as chair of the things could have become judge of the trial courts, but pening again, that cuff will president of William and Mary Northeastern University Com- much worse. the initiative was started with mean nothing.’ I made that College, a science director mission on Athletics, and as a He credits the commitment a $500,000 foundation grant at mistake (of telling dad) only from the Reagan administra- member of the Commission on of several public officials the Dorchester District Court. once,” he says. “Of course it tion, a Houston ob/gyn physi- Federal Judicial Appointments, in addressing the problems, Once the drug court began to happened more than once.” cian and a Disney executive. the St. Clair Commission to including District Attorney show some success, Driscoll Driscoll played tackle on “Four of them had played Study Management of the Ralph Martin, Attorney Gen- says, “The ice started to melt, the high school football team, in the NFL. They were great Boston Police Department, the eral Scott Harshbarger and and now there are 40 such graduated in 1950, and won a guys to be with for one night,” Governor’s Foreign Business federal prosecutor Donald courts in the state. It is prob- scholarship to the University he says Council, and the Arbitration Stern. The Boston effort was ably the most successful thing of New Hampshire, where he After graduation, he enrolled Committee of the Boston Stock modeled after a highly success- we did.” played left tackle. He graduated in Harvard Law School, and Exchange. ful program in Miami, but he Driscoll admits “We kind of magna cum laude, and was was hired as line coach for the Jack Driscoll’s work kept laments, “We were never able strayed away from our mission named to the first Academic Harvard football team. It was him focused on helping people. to get the business community to act as a convener,” and the All-American football team during those three years that he While serving as president of as engaged in Boston.” Coalition started to operate in 1954. “I am sure what hap- acquired a lasting nickname: the Boston Bar Association in Also important, he recalls, programs. Now, he says, “We pened was, they had 21 places Jack Driscoll is still referred to 1991, he headed a study on was the change of Boston city are looking at some of the filled, and said, ‘Where the hell as “Coach” by many Harvard the status of drugs and crime administration, with Mayor programs and handing them are we going to find a left tackle football players. in the city. Thomas Menino and Police off. We probably should get with good grades?’” Driscoll met and married his For 18 months, Driscoll Commissioner Paul Evans back to our original role as a Driscoll does not know who wife Jane and the two started organized meetings of people committing to the effort. convener and catalyst.” nominated him, but he was the their newlywed life in an from all over the city and in One result of the coalition’s As for the future, Driscoll only member of the 22-member apartment in a three-decker his early 1993 he formed the Bos- efforts was the creation of a says he is focused on “Chal- squad who did not play at a father owned on Broadway, in ton Coalition, with task forces diversionary program known lenge 2006”, an event that Division 1 school. “They ran Somerville. Later, the couple on such topics as a drug free as a “drug court.” brought together over 500 a little story in the Somerville bought a home in Belmont, workplace, criminal justice, “I thought, these are not government and community paper, and probably in the where their three sons John, children and youth and the hard-core offenders. The whole leaders to discuss the chal- Manchester paper, and I got a James, and Joseph were born religious community. He also ideas was to take someone off lenges facing Boston’s youth little letter which I gave to my and raised, and for a time Jack served on the St. Clair Commis- the street, bring them into court, and a renewed commitment mother,” he says with a smile. Driscoll served as a town meet- sion which studied the Boston and instead of incarcerating to a proactive, grassroots ap- them, get them into a program proach. He says that come the where they would get treat- year 2006 there is expected to ment. Maybe, even potentially be “a 25 percent to 35 percent get them some job training bulge in the adolescent popu- skills, maybe even get them a lation. There will be far more job when they finish. kids in the streets between the “That’s so very much less ages of 13 and 20. expensive a way, and a much “My gut tells me we can more humane way to take care shift to the role of convener. of what I’ll say is the least of- The potential in a deteriorating fensive of people involved with economy is just as bad as it was drugs. Most were users – some in 1989-1991, and I am just in may have been small-time ped- the throes of trying to put the dlers, and many were women. case together again. The coali- If you stay in the program for tion is morphing into something a year, your record would be it used to be.” John P. Driscoll, his wife Lauren and their family. clean, as if nothing happened.

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No matter when your family came over from Ireland there’s never been a better time to go back! And plan to bring the whole family, friends and colleagues! Where ever you live in the United States it’s never been easier to get to Ireland. Plan a visit now and enjoy connecting with your family, your friends and your Irish roots. So go on! – What are you waiting for?

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TOURISM IRELAND Publication: Boston Irish Reporter Ad Page Trim: 10” x 16” Diaspora 2013 Artwork due date: Week of Oct 22, 2013 Bleed: 10.25” x 16.25” Publication date: , 2013 Live Area: 9” x 15”