April 2011 VOL. 22 #4 $1.50 Boston’s hometown journal of Irish culture.

Worldwide at bostonirish.com All contents copyright © 2011 Boston Neighborhood News, Inc. New Bailout Needed to Avoid Collapse of Irish Banking Associated Press DUBLIN— The Central Bank of Ireland now says the nation’s cash-strapped banks need another loan of 24-billion euro ($34 billion U.S. dollars) in coming months to ensure they won’t collapse in the face of future crises. The new figure would take the estimated total cost of Ireland’s bank-bailout efforts since 2009 to 70-billion euro, or some $110 billion. On the last day of March, Central Bank Governor Patrick Honohan unveiled the results of new stress tests on four Irish banks, a condition of Ireland’s in- ternational bailout last November. Analysts expect the results to force all of them to come under majority state control and perhaps even shove the country into an eventual default. Regulators released numbers on two banks that are already majority state-owned — Allied Irish Banks and the Educational Building Society — and two others expected to join that club soon: the Bank of Ireland, and Irish Life & Permanent. The results showed that last year’s estimated po- tential losses for Irish banks — $76 billion — were far too low. Economists said the new total would likely Following custom, Enda Kenny presents a bowl of fresh living shamrocks to President Obama. AP photo approach $110 billion or more, about half of Ireland’s entire economy. “The government is trying to remove uncertainty. But if we are going to spend up to 80 billion euro President and Taoiseach to recapitalize our banks, that’s just too big for us to manage. It will not work,’’ said Jim Power, chief economist at Friends First, a Dutch-owned insurance Celebrate Ireland’s Day company in Ireland. “We need a major European initiative quickly, otherwise the future of the euro is Ireland’s new prime minister, Enda Kenny, met up Frederick Douglass escaped slave catchers in 1845 under serious threat.’’ with President Barack Obama and Vice President by fleeing across the Atlantic to Ireland. For his part, Joseph Biden on March 17 at the White House recep- Kenny compared the slave trade between Africa and tion in honor of St. Patrick’s Day where greetings were America to the flight from death and starvation of the delivered with charm and eloquence as their wives and Irish who came on the coffin ships. “Together we built Echoing Across invited guests looked on. America,” he said. In his welcome, Obama detailed the story of how Excerpts from their addresses follow: Millennia, Irish OBAMA: I am not going to stand up here very long be- KENNY: Mr. President, thank you for your warm cause, as the old Irish saying goes, everyone is wise until invitation to join you here this evening. Fionnuala Harp Shapes a Land he speaks. And I know we’ve got some entertainment to and I are honored on behalf of the Irish people and get to. But the Irish also tell us that what fills the eye delighted to accept your invitation. By Sean Smith fills the heart. And tonight, in this room filled with so On St. Patricks’s Day, sometimes we remember some many friends both old and new, I can’t imagine a better of our leaders – Michael Davitt, who began one of the Special to the BIR place to be than right here with the sons and daughters great agrarian movements throughout Europe; the It’s arguably the most of Ireland – and those who wish they were. great Ulster clans of the O’Neills and the O’Donnells; iconic of Irish musical I want to start by welcoming Taoiseach Kenny and the O’Connells of Munster -- I’ve left a book on Daniel instruments, depicted in his lovely wife, Fionnuala. Please give them a big O’Connell for your protocol section, Mr. President. both classical and com- round of applause. (Applause.) Now, poor Taoiseach, And dare I say it, the Obamas of Leinster. mercial art – and, yes, it’s he’s only been in office for a little over a week. He’s Certainly if that’s the case, I can tell you that in even the namesake for a already jetlagged. But I’m honored that he agreed to the history of the English language, never has a popular beer. leave the unpacking for another day and fly across the single apostrophe meant so much to so many. And So, with another year of ocean to be with us here tonight. may I say, sir, Mr. President, they’re queuing up in St. Patrick’s Day events Every year at this time, we’re reminded of just how the thousands to tell you that in Moneygall when you in Boston and elsewhere many strands of green are woven into our American visit us in May of this year. having brought a focus to story. And even though St. Patrick’s Day has perhaps I’d like to echo the words of the President, because as traditional Irish music, the been better known for revelry than reflection, it’s also a we gather here in the White House this evening, we do Irish harp has once again enjoyed its fair share of chance for us to remember how the journey to America remember the various ways and the different journeys When Kathleen Guilday began for so many of our ancestors – including, as I that people took to get here. The Irish, driven out by attention. first saw an Irish harp, discovered as I was running for office, one of mine; how what we called an Gorta Mór, or the Great Hunger, And that’s just fine with she recalls, “all I wanted millions of Irish boarded dank and crowded ships with when the potato crop from the New World failed. As Aine Minogue, Kathleen to do was play it.” a promise to send for their families later, often with no the writers said, in scattered lines they made for the Guilday, and Regina Del- Sean Smith photo friends, no money, and nothing but hope waiting for quayside, their only sound the slow slap of their souls aney, three Irish harpists them on the other side. on the immigrant flagstones. But, you see, ours was with ties to the Greater Boston area. As much as they might respect other instruments common to Irish music, (Continued on page 13) (Continued on page 13) they feel the harp’s physical, tonal, and even symbolic characteristics give it a dimension all its own. “You can walk into a crowded, noisy pub with a harp, Searching Just Follow and silence everyone,” says Minogue, a Tipperary na- tive who has several recordings and numerous concerts For Answers The Signs? to her credit. “Instinctively, people seem to feel this In Ireland Unhinged, The Irish, good folks connection to the harp, even if they’re not sure why.” the author David Mona- that they are, know that “There are so many aspects to the harp,” says Del- gan, right, who left Con- not everyone driving the aney, who teaches harp at the Comhaltas Ceoltoiri Eireann Boston branch music school and directs the necticut for Co. Cork, island’s roads speaks New England Harp Orchestra. “It’s the way it rings, reports and writes in English, so they have and resonates. When you play it, you’re practically search of Ireland’s heart designed signs like the hugging it, and you can feel the vibrations through and soul in the shadow one at right that leave your body. The harp has a calming effect.” of the “Celtic Tiger.” little doubt about their Guilday, an All-Ireland harp champion who has messages. performed with the Chieftains, Seamus Connolly, and PAGE 17 PAGE 19 (Continued on page 11) Page 2 April 2011 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com

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Postal address: Boston Irish Reporter 150 Mt. Vernon Street, Dorchester, MA 02125 Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com April 2011 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 3 ON THE TOWN WITH THE BIR Winnie Henry is One with Haiti By Greg O’Brien Special to the BIR Winnie Henry, a single mother of seven, the widow of the late Irish singer Noel Henry, has adopted a country of young children with the help of her many friends. Co-founder with Pat “Doc” Walsh of Irish Hearts For Haiti, the Milton mother—along with a brigade of more than 30 devoted volunteers—has spent months coordinating the organization’s Second Annual Benefit Dance for Haiti, which will be held on Sunday (April 3) at the Marriott Boston Quincy, raising money for earthquake devastated Haiti and for the care of or- phaned, abandoned, and disabled children. Winnie has devoted herself to the cause, her persona becoming one with Haiti. Over the last few weeks, her living room has resembled the office of a Haitian relief center with its reams of fund-raising materials, fliers, and event handouts, as she works on final event preparations. With her all the way have been Walsh, a Galway native, and her 28-year-old daughter, Monica, newly appointed regional manager in Boston for special events for Friends of the Orphans, an international non-profit dedicated to the care of needy children in the Caribbean and Latin America. All proceeds from the event will benefit Friends of the Orphans (friendsoftheorphans.org) or the Saint Winnie Henry and her daughter Monica. Rock Haiti Foundation (saintrock.org), an outreach mission of Saint Agatha’s Parish in Milton and Quincy. orphanages, St. Damien’s Premier Pediatric Hospital, Courier Corporation, Ireland on the Move, The Irish Checks, in advance or at the door, are to be made out two new schools, child protection camps, cholera medi- Emigrant, Marriott Boston Quincy, the Sean Folan to the Haitian beneficiary of choice. cal clinics and emergency response programs. These Show, WROL 950 AM, Irish Hit Parade, The Bailey Friends of the Orphans supports Nuestros Pequenos works of mercy have supported more than a million Ceili, The Feast of Irish Music, and WUNR/1600 AM. Hermanos (in Haitian French: Nos Petit Freres et people since January 2010, when a 7.0 earthquake The event’s working committee alone includes close to Soeurs), translated “Our Little Brothers and Sisters. devastated Haiti, one of the world’s poorest countries 30 people, and last year raised about $50,000 for the NPH/NPFS, the acronym, is home to 350 orphans, and one struggling in recent years from health crisis, cause with about 700 attending the event. and is a critical support system to more then 30,000 political upheaval and a spate of bruising hurricanes. The suggested donation is $20, and comes with a Haitians for medical assistance, food, water, education The Saint Rock Foundation provides funding for full afternoon of Irish entertainment from Erin’s Melody, and essential services for the disabled. Led by Father housing, health care, clean water and education in the Kevin Doherty, the Andy Healy Band, Brendan Bulger Philip Cleary, president of NPH International, NPH/ rural mountain village of Saint Rock, Haiti. & Friends (traditional set dancing), and Noel Henry’s NPFS has rescued and raised nearly 16,000 boys and “The cry for help is extraordinary,” says Winnie Irish Showband. girls throughout the Caribbean and Latin America. In Henry. “There is so much need in the world, and it’s The late Irish singer Noel Henry, an immea- the past year, under the supervision of physician and only going to grow. You have to do what you can. We surably talented and loving man, died in 1995 of bone priest Father Rick Frechette—the organization’s all have a calling. Often it comes unannounced.” cancer, leaving Winnie and seven children behind. In national director in Haiti, with medical training from She is quick to credit others in the coordination memory, he is as much the driving force behind Irish New York City College of Osteopathic Medicine—NPH/ of Irish Hearts For Haiti (irishheartsforhaiti.com) — Hearts For Haiti as anyone. NPFS has expanded its mission. It now includes two a benefit co-sponsored by the Boston Irish Reporter,

Five years ago Milton resident and Cambridge Police Lieutenant Pauline Wells teamed up with several friends to host a St. Patrick’s concert to benefit the Jimmy Fund and Dana Farber cancer Institute. Each year, sold out crowds have come to Milton High School Auditorium to attend this splendid event, known today as “A Celtic Crossing”. This performance has caught the attention of many, mainly because of the bright voice of Pauline Wells, who founded this effort after losing a second parent to cancer in 2002. Her efforts have raised thousands for Dana Farber. In addition she has used her singing talent and the relationship she has developed with many musicians, especially members of the band DEVRI led by Donegal native and Braintree resident Declan Houton to bring awareness and money to several worthy charities. Dozens of musicians and dancers have taken part in this show including international artist Finbar Furey and local comedian Jimmy Tingle. Her efforts have also caught the eye to the legend- ary Irish Tenor, Dr. Ronan Tynan— so much so that Wells performed as a special guest with Tynan during his March 27th show in Boston— his first since moving to Boston last year. On Saturday, April 16, 2010, the fifth production of “A Celtic Crossing” will return to the Milton High School Deirdre Ni Fhalluin, Vice Consul of Ireland; Ed Merritt, president of Mt. Washington Bank; Boston Auditorium. This year’s show once again promises to Police Commissioner Ed Davis; and Martin McDonagh, president of the BPD Emerald Society cel- highlight the Boston Police Gaelic Column, the Odw- ebrate the memory of Boston’s first Irish police officer, Barney McGinniskin. yer School of Irish dance and several musical guests. This year we bring you back to our beginning five years ago, with an inspirational lineup of traditional President Obama classics as well as several new numbers. Tickets are $25 and may be obtained by calling 617-696-7172 or Plans May Visit to Ireland e-mailing [email protected] President Barack Obama used his annual St. Patrick’s All proceeds to benefit the Jimmy Fund and Dana Day reception at the White House to announce big news: Farber. For more information see paulinewells.com. He will visit Ireland in May and make a special visit to his ancestral hometown of Moneygall in County Offaly. The exact dates of the visit have not been finalized. The president is scheduled to travel to the UK in late May ahead of a G8 summit in France. That would place his likely visit between May 22-24. The president is not expected to visit Northern Ireland, according to Irish Taoiseach Enda Kenny. “The problem actually is that the president, under existing protocol, is not allowed to go to Northern Ireland without first having to go to Britain,” Kenny told the BBC.

Belfast author Kyle Darcy was at the State House on March 30 as a guest of Massachusetts Lieuten- ant Governor, Tim Murray. The two talked about Darcy’s novel Under Current Conditions, which is set in Massachusetts. The story chronicles a lucrative business opportunity, but an innocuous change in circumstances leads to kidnapping and FBI stings, culminating with an international murder trial. Page 4 April 2011 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com Publisher’s Notebook Commentary All Green, A Look on the Bright Side All the Way for the Future of Ireland By Joe Leary and Henry Street to experience the pace of life By Ed Forry Special to the BIR and the happy smiling faces. The Irish were in charge at the White House on St. Patrick’s Even before the recent elections, there were Continue across the Liffey to Grafton Street and Day last month – or so it seemed. Even as the fountain on abundant signs that the people of Ireland are St. Stephen’s Green. Hundreds, then thousands of the north lawn was filled with green dye, and the colors of surviving and doing well. people at every hour of the day walking briskly to the Emerald Isle adorned the East Room, several hundred Media stories in Europe and from their homes and jobs. This is an active Irish and Irish Americans gathered for a celebration with and the United States por- working citizenry moving forward. President and Mrs. Obama and the new Taoiseach Enda tray Ireland as a stricken The brightly colored flower stands are still on Kenny and his wife Fionnualana, and a truly festive night country. It isn’t! Grafton Street. The “busker” entertainers are still it was. A recent trip to Dublin singing and dancing for the crowds. St. Stephen’s It is a long presidential tradition to receive for Irish found the city streets full Green is as crowded as ever – the benches are government leaders at the White House on the Saint’s day, of busy people hurrying mostly filled, and passersby either walked quickly going back as least as far as the Bush, Clinton, and Reagan along, getting on with their or were out for a leisurely stroll. years. As is the custom, President Obama received a bowl of normal lives. The better restaurants fill up early in the eve- fresh living shamrocks from the Irish prime minister. The The Aer Lingus flight ning. One in particular, “La Maison” on Castle ceremonies, including brief speeches by Vice President Biden, from Boston to Dublin with Market Street, which specializes in French cuisine, Kenny, and the president lasted just about 25 minutes – but 322 seats was crowded starts to turn away customers as early as 6 p.m. it was a true Irish party throughout the evening. with, among others, a in the middle of the week. Two luxury hotels, The The night was filled with five-star Irish performances. Ar- group of 90 teenagers and Merrion and The Conrad, are busy with active riving guests were greeted by a choral performance by the Joe Leary their 15 counselors from lunch time restaurants and long black limousines National Chamber Choir of Ireland, some 20 singers who the Larne Grammar School parked outside. sang an original piece written by Riverdance composer Bill in Northern Ireland. They were returning from Ireland’s secondary schools and its universities Whelan. Upstairs, the brilliant Academy Award-winning a ski trip to New Hampshire. And we landed in are doing business as usual with tens of thousands singer-songwriter Glen Hansard warmed up the crowd. The Dublin’s sparkling new airport terminal, as modern of students preparing for their working lives. Walk- White House reverberated Irish music a facility as found anywhere in the world. ing through Trinity College campus with hustling as Hansard had everyone singing a Hardly the activity of a depressed economy. students carrying heavy knapsacks gives the beery, raucous rendition of The Old The elections held last month installed new impression that, for these boys and girls at least, Triangle (“… Went Jing-le Jan-gle, All energetic leadership and a revitalized Irish Parlia- the biggest problem they have is the next exam. aroooouuuund the baaaaaanks, of the ment to deal with the problems the country faces. At Dublin City University, on the outskirts Ro-yal Caa-nal.) Then out stepped Vice Among those chosen, the voters elected three of Dublin to the North, the development staff is President Joe Biden, an Irish American young men who symbolize the new energy and concentrating on financing their Access program, born in Scranton to an Irish American enthusiasm Parliament will enjoy. From Donegal, which offers less privileged students free tuition mother, and he soon had the gathering Pearse Doherty TD of Sinn Fein; from Mayo, Dara and fees with a personal counseling service for roaring with his good humor. Calleary TD of Fianna Fail; and from Galway, any problems arising. The program is specifically “You know, all of you Irishmen out Sean Kyne TD of Fine Gael. Kyne is the nephew designed for students with proven secondary school Ed Forry there, they talk about the luck of the of Mike O’Connor, President of the Irish Cultural ability from families where no one has ever been to Irish,” Biden said. “My grandfather, Centre in Canton. We will be hearing from these college or has had any thought of going. Currently Ambrose Finnegan, didn’t like that expression as much. He men as they develop their careers and become the more than 400 students are involved. Another liked the expression, he used to say, if you’re lucky enough new leaders of Ireland. example of why Ireland’s future is so bright. to be Irish, well, you’re lucky enough. And I think we’re all It is true that the Irish were very angry with There are three reasons why Ireland will return pretty lucky in here tonight – lucky to be here at the White the Fianna Fail political party and Taoiseach to its past success in the short term: House, lucky to be here about to hear the two people I’m Brian Cowen, but democracy works and they are (1) During the past two decades the infrastruc- about to introduce. no longer in power. It is also true that the Dublin ture in Ireland has been transformed. Super- “We’re here to celebrate friendship between two great na- skyline has many fewer cranes helping to build highways were created, new buildings arose, sports tions, Ireland and the United States, and two nations that new homes and businesses, and unemployment stadiums were built. It can be said that Ireland define me the most, and I expect define most of you. There’s is seriously high at 14.7 percent. But the major today is a modern country, the investments have an old Irish proverb – there’s a million of them – but there’s corporations of the world still have great faith in been made. [one] that says there is no strength without unity. And investing in Ireland. (2) The same is true of Ireland’s university sys- one of the things that has been the case for a long time is According to the American Chamber of Com- tem. The seven major campuses – University Col- we celebrate in this house the unity derived from all of the merce in Dublin, United States investment in Ire- lege Dublin, University College Cork, University Irish that have peopled this great country, 40 million of us land ($156 billion) is greater than US investments College Galway, Trinity, Dublin City University, claim it, and that beautiful Ireland. in China, Russia, Brazil, and India combined. Limerick University, and Maynooth – all offer “And actually, since the birth of America on – we have Ireland is an ideal stepping-off point for doing world class educations. Their grounds are superb, on March 17th, 1776, when the British forces under Sir Wil- business in Europe and the Middle East. their professors are among the best in the world, liam Howe evacuated Boston, literally there was a password But it is in the streets, the retail stores, the and their leadership is as professional as the best to get to George Washington’s encampment, and it was restaurants, and the hotels where the visitor sees colleges anywhere. ‘Saint Patrick.’ That was the password. ’ Well, ladies and the resolute and positive attitudes of the average (3) Finally, it is the spirit, intelligence, and resil- gentlemen, that still works here in the White House. Just working man and woman. Walk from Parnell ience of the Irish themselves that will get Ireland ask Bill Daley or Tom Donilon or McDonough or Brennan, Square down O’Connell Street to the post office going again. The advance has started already. the entire national security team – it’s still Saint Patrick. The president is surrounded by us. “You know, my mom Catherine Eugenia Finnegan Biden used to say, ‘To be Irish is about family, it’s about faith, and it’s about courage. She Off the Bench said, without courage you can’t love with abandon. Well, ladies and gentlemen, that’s why she liked Barack Obama so much. I think he got used to her calling him ‘honey’ – but she thought that he embodied all those virtues. And I can As the lingering winter eases off … tell you from experience of working with him side by side these last two years, he abounds in courage. There’s also By James W. Dolan for spring. another Irish expression that says a good friend is like a Special to the Reporter As harsh as it sometimes is, those who annually four-leaf clover -- hard to find and lucky to have. I consider The snow lingers. Will this winter ever end? face winter’s rigors at least have the opportunity myself extremely lucky to have two good friends in Michelle This year Mother Nature took a swipe at global to confront a reality that others seek to escape. and Barack Obama. And after spending the morning with Winter will come in one form or another; better the Taoiseach and his wife, I hope I found two more friends. “ warming by sending us a blast from the past. prepare for it. The seasons are locked in our DNA; (The remarks of the President and the Taoiseach begin Winter wrapped around us with an intensity that on Page One.) shouted: “Not so soon, there is no escape. I’m still around.” I am now in the early winter of my life. The trees Over time what first are bare, the wind cool, and gray days appear more appeared to be a win- often. I had a grand spring, summer, and fall. The Boston Irish ter wonderland be- love, laughter, and joy I shared still warms the win- came a white shroud ter nights when the wind howls and the snow flies. enveloping nature Spring is the first season; it begins the cycle. Its REPORTER and our souls in a youth blends seamlessly into the warmth of sum- The Boston Irish Reporter is published monthly by: suffocating embrace mer when it matures into adulthood, marriage, and Boston Neighborhood News, Inc., that seemed endless. children. Fall is the season of middle age, maturity, 150 Mt. Vernon St., Suite 120, Dorchester, MA 02125 The lucky ones fled to and perspective. Winter is wisdom, infirmity, and [email protected] www.bostonirish.com warmer climes while resignation. Mary C. Forry, President (1983-2004) the rest endured. The older we get, the more we look forward to Edward W. Forry, Publisher James W. Dolan Winter is the “make another spring. Having survived another winter, we Thomas F. Mulvoy Jr., Managing Editor the best of it” season. begin the cycle anew although spring, summer, and fall appear to be getting shorter and winter longer. William P. Forry, Contributing Editor It reminds us of mortality, the time when things I suspect more people die in the winter than at Peter F. Stevens, Contributing Editor die and are buried. The elderly are particularly affected; they see it as the final season – the end. other times of the year. Winter is a clock winding down; the tempo slows, the chimes grow faint, News Room: (617) 436-1222 Ads : (617) 436-1222 Going to Florida for the winter is an understand- able form of denial. There have been a few times time slips by reluctant to surrender its remaining Fax: (617) 825-5516 [email protected] this winter when denial looked good to me. minutes. Finally it stops. On The Web at www.bostonirish.com Spring is the season of hope and rebirth. It is Will the final winter open into a glorious spring? Date of Next Issue: May, 2011 youth, vitality, curiosity, and energy; a time to That is the hope of many, but there is only one way Deadline for Next Issue: Wednesday, April 20 at 2 p.m. look ahead. It is a precursor of salvation for those to find out. When, with a final gust, the flame is Published monthly in the first week of each month. who did not survive the winter and longed for an extinguished, does the sun rise on a new dawn? The Boston Irish Reporter is not liable for errors appearing in advertisements eternal spring. I’ll take that bet. After all, what have I got to lose? beyond the cost of the space occupied by the error. The right is reserved by The Spring is a promise. It is the young season, full Maybe the seasons are trying to tell us something. Boston Irish Reporter to edit, reject, or cut any copy without notice. of children, laughter, and love. Winter is a debt James W. Dolan is a retired Dorchester District that all must eventually honor, the price we pay Court judge who now practices law. Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com April 2011 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 5 Boston Irish Reporter’s Here & There

By Bill O’Donnell but Privilege Days in Ireland have hung listening to, and certainly not imple- heard him criticize anybody, never a bad Libyan Fighting Threatens IRA in there and are now incorporated into menting, Gerry Adams and Sinn Fein’s word unless you outdrew him with a gut Victims’ Claims – War, even the no- the 30-day annual leave. It’s hard, it unprincipled suggestion that Ireland straight. He had his priorities in order: fly-zone type of war being waged today seems, to keep a good holiday down. could default on its IMF obligation or family, faith, country. He was a Marine against Colonel Police Recruiting at 50/50 Ends put the bailout question to a national grunt in Korea during the heavy going Khadafy’s brutal – The Northern Ireland Secretary of referendum. More posturing/pandering there, a forward observer (God bless the regime, has many State, Owen Paterson, announced from a minority party that seems to have mark) who had no war stories to share. casualties. One of last month that the 50-50 Catholic- forgotten that the election is over. Time, He was never famous except at home. the probable los- Protestant recruitment to the Police fellas, to start acting like adults! The life he lived was full – his family, his ers of the conflict Service of Northern Ireland was ending. Cancer Centre Ruling Raises Col- Catholicism, and being a caring friend; no in Libya is a secret The even-handed recruiting policy was eraine Spectre – “Here we go again” bluster, no bluff, but with a determined deal between the a reform recommended by the Patten could be the cry in Derry with the stun- taste for gentle whimsy and his favorite British government Report a decade ago and had been suc- ning news of the decision by the union- Marsh Wheeling cigars. He died as he and Khadafy to win cessful in radically altering the makeup ist Minister of Health to shelve plans lived —at home with his Polly and their compensation from of the PSNI. When introduced in 2001, for Derry’s long-awaited cancer centre. three children, at peace with himself, Libya for British Catholics made up just 8 percent of the There is a lot of bitter history here going the world and God. We should all be so Bill O’Donnell victims (including former RUC. Today the level of Catholics back to the late 1960s when Derry was blessed when that time comes. Northern Ireland) in the police service is a shade under 30 the logical location for the new Univer- RANDOM CLIPPINGS of IRA bombs and violence. The agree- percent (29.76). sity of Ulster, but Protestant Coleraine Strangely enough given the financial ment, hammered out in secret nego- Many Northern unionists and the was chosen by the unionist government chaos that is Ireland today, the Green Isle tiations but possibly incomplete, would politicians who represent them have because of the high proportion of Catho- in 2010 had its “best year ever” for Irish compensate UK citizens for loss of life been critical of the police quota system, lics in Derry. exports. Great news but still 30 percent and property from Provisional IRA opera- calling it “institutionalized discrimina- It seems to be deja vu all over again for under the target number needed to meet tions during the Troubles using arma- tion” and urging a return to “natural the cancer centre! The decision to scrap EU bailout numbers. … New Taoiseach ments, semtex explosives, surface-to-air recruitment.” Nationalists generally the Derry facility has come as a shock to Enda Kenny is tough. He and French missiles, AK47 rifles, ammunition, etc. believe that the 50-50 policy should be the people of Derry and the leadership President Sarkozy had a big tiff at supplied by Khadafy. The dimensions in force longer (maybe until 40 percent of Sinn Fein and the Democratic Union- the economic summit over the Irish tax of the deal, fueled by Libyan oil profits, Catholics is reached) but have been rela- ist Party. Many felt that it repeats the rate but Kenny never blinked. … The was projected to be as high as $15 billion. tively mute in response to the secretary Coleraine Ulster U. decision again long North’s First Minister and former Ian The possibility of such a compensation of state’s decision. after the Good Friday Agreement had Paisley associate, Peter Robinson, agreement came about when Khadafy, Did You Know … that the unique seemingly put a stop to most sectarian- raised Unionist eyebrows when he said taking heed of the fall of Saddam Hus- Irish concoction “Riverdance” is now in based decisions. The Derry Cancer Cen- he could attend Catholic funeral Masses. sein in Iraq, abandoned his nuclear its 16th year since it first opened to raves tre location was to be one-third funded Meanwhile Robinson and wife Iris, who weapons program and after years of at Dublin’s Point Theatre in 1995? It has by the Republic of Ireland because the resigned her multiple political jobs, are wrangling finally settled for $2 billion been performed over 10,000 times and facility was to be available to patients hanging in and it is being said that nei- with the families of the Lockerbie plane- seen by 22 million people in 350 venues from Sligo, Donegal, and Leirtim. ther will face any charges over financial bombing victims. The long simmering in 40 countries and 4 continents. Some Both the DUP and Deputy First Min- questions. … Irish incomes have fallen US-Khadafy imbroglio cooled down and 2 billion people have seen “Riverdance” ister Martin McGuinness lambasted 8 percent below the EU average and the Colonel and the West moved closer on television and it has sold 3 million the decision, with McGuinness calling are now near the bottom with Portugal, and began speaking to each another. CDs and 10 million videos and DVDs. it “blatantly sectarian.” Both pledged to Greece, Spain, and Italy. … Ma Bell in During the 30-year conflict in the Irish American Museum Eyes reverse the decision, if possible, follow- all her dotage is back and AT&T and North, there existed a close and continu- Washington Site – The planning is ing the Northern local elections in May. T-Mobile are planning a marriage. One ing relationship between the Provos and still in the very preliminary stages Chairman Peter King Unarmed certain outcome of that is higher rates Khadafy. That friendship blossomed but it seems that with the help of an In Muslim Hunt – The Republican as they will control 71 percent of the US when Margaret Thatcher’s govern- Irish-born Connecticut businessman an congressman from Long Island has been mobile phone business. ment decided to allow the United States Irish-American museum could become called our worst congressman and after March marked the 20th anniversary of Air Force to use British bases to bomb a reality in the nation’s capital. There watching him on TV last month indict the release of the Birmingham Six from Tripoli. Khadafy, in a retaliatory move had been talk at one time of organizing (or at least try to indict) every Muslim Old Bailey in London after 15 years in against Thatcher, decided to aid Britain’s an Irish-American museum in Boston in America, I think he has earned his British captivity. … Final Irish Bank enemies by supplying war materials to somewhere within or near the Rose sobriquet. What a thundering disgrace stress tests are still to come but early the Provisional IRA. This infusion of Kennedy Conservancy acreage, but that Rep. King is to the Irish. Throughout his indications are that there’s a $34 billion weaponry allowed the Provos to acceler- possibility has suffered from inertia, a public life he has been an outspoken fan black hole the new government has to ate the campaign of violence in the North grim economy, the still unsettled ques- of whatever atrocity the Provisional IRA contend with. … Blood is thicker: Former and in English cities as well. tions of what will eventually go into the was engaged in. He defended the IRA Fianna Fail TD Mary O’Rourke, took The big question, obviously for the Rose Kennedy Park area, and, as always, because, he said, “The fact is that the her nephew Brian Linehan’s side victims is this: If Khadafy survives or the scarcity of a deep-pocket source of IRA never attacked the United States against her former party leader, Brian if he is removed and a new government funding. and my loyalty is to the United States.” Cowen. … New York Mayor Michael in Libya takes over, what would be the The Connecticut businessman Carl But he never cared about the British Bloomberg, a pretty savvy guy, told status of the compensation agreement? Shanahan is a native of County civilians and hundreds of Northern a stupid Irish drunk story and paid High Profile Visits Set for Ireland Limerick and has been active in the Catholics who were killed and maimed for it with catcalls during the St. Pat’s – May could be a busy month in the old Irish-American Cultural Institute, the by IRA-Libyan bombs and bullets. Ah festivities. … A well-deserved honor for Sod with a trio of top-level visitors set Ireland-US Council and a number of yes, clearly another patriot in the mold Belfast’s Inez McCormack, women to visit Ireland. President Obama will successful businesses. Shanahan and of someone like serial adulterer Newt and labor activist, who was named by squeeze in a likely visit to Moneygall an organizing committee have spoken Gingrich. Newsweek as one of the 150 women in County Offaly around a planned longingly about a brick and mortar mu- As one journalist noted, the hearings “who shake the world.” … The US is the European economic summit in France. seum to celebrate Ireland’s contribution of Chairman King’s Homeland Security favorite travel destination of the Irish. Former President Bill Clinton is also to America but thus far there has been subcommittee took place in a room once They like Orlando, Las Vegas, and New scheduled for a return to Ireland for a little hard information available about used by the House Un-American Ac- York the best. Where’s Boston? … Isn’t separate event there and Hillary Clin- financing, a time table for development, tivities Committee. King and his white sad Charlie Sheen just the latest bad ton might well be accompanying her or similar details about any Washington, Republican cohort tried desperately to Irish drunk joke. I know his dad is Ra- boss, the president. D.C. facility. cast doubts on the loyalty of the entire mon Estevez but his grandmother was Queen Elizabeth is also scheduled to It is a shame, it says here, that the Muslim population but some unscripted Irish, so please don’t write. be in Ireland in May, departing coinci- call for a Boston-based Irish American congressional colleagues put the public- Sign of hard times: the St. Vincent dentally the day before Obama arrives. Museum seems lost amidst the recession. ity-seeking King in his place. de Paul Society, which already has 20 The queen’s state visit will be her first Boston, quite realistically, would be an My question is whether King is think- branches in Co. Galway, is opening two ever to Ireland and the first by any ideal venue for such an enterprise. As ing of becoming candidate for New York more. … With what’s going on in Wis- British monarch since King George V a port city and gateway with a heavy mayor? Are his quasi-McCarthyite consin and other assaults on American spent six days in Dublin in 1911. She was Irish population it would appeal to hearings part of a grand plan and a not trade unionism, what is Jesse Jackson invited by President Mary McAleese. both area residents as well as the large so subtle public political appeal to the doing in Ireland? … Maybe I’m just slow Another rather well-known head of numbers of Irish and European visitors nativist fringe in the New York suburbs. but when Mass Lottery scratch tickets state won’t be in Ireland this year, but who annually trek to the Hub. It would With his “credentials” King just might partner up with the likes of the Red Sox Pope Benedict XVI is rumored to be add critical mass to an already rich list win a primary in a crowded mayor’s race. and Patriots, and the sports teams get planning a pilgrimage of sorts to Ireland of tourist attractions and might even God forbid! paid for their involvement, which part in 2012 as a way to show the Vatican’s have found a home within or near the It Is April. What Has Bertie Cost of the cut do the teams get paid from? concern for the Irish Church amidst the emerging Kennedy Senate Institute at Us Now – The results are in and the bot- … Thanks to the Globe’s Kevin Cul- clerical abuse scandal that has rocked Columbia Point or at UMass-Boston. tom line that former Taoiseach Bertie len for revisiting the tale of Dorchester Catholicism in the country. A Post-Election Economic Snap- Ahern refers to in his patented banking crossing guard Marie Conley whose Boston ‘Hack Holidays’ Have Irish shot – In Ireland at the moment it is strategies, is fixed and undeniable: A heroism saved a young girl from death Counterpart – Here in Boston the effort difficult – maybe next to impossible – major independent review of Ireland’s at the cost of Marie’s life. Greater Love to abolish two of the traditional holidays to provide any detailed analysis of the Department of Finance clearly shows ...! Ireland lost a great journalist and that are nearest and dearest to the State situation economically or politically. In that the department repeatedly warned republican patriot with the death last House and area city halls continues with the simplest of terms, Ireland is a messy the Ahern government and Ahern’s month of Sean Cronin at 90 in Washing- somewhat mixed results. The Evacua- work in progress, but there are several handpicked successor, Brian Cowen, ton, D.C. Good man! … The new chief of tion Day (Okay, St. Patrick’s Day) and points that might be made: about the dangers of its economic poli- staff of the US Army is General Martin Bunker Hill Day (June 17) holidays have First, Taoiseach Enda Kenny and his cies over the last ten years. To no avail, Dempsey. His grandfather, John Og been iced, but most workers are off with government will not bend on the 12.5 as current circumstances now suggest. Devenney, left Donegal for America skeleton crews meeting the letter of the percent corporate tax rate. That stays Every year, save one, over the decade 85 years ago. Dempsey will command new law with offices barely open. as is, non-negotiable. Secondly, many of each government (Taoiseachs Ahern & 600,000 army troops in 135 countries. … Boston is not alone in observing spe- Ireland’s EU neighbors are upset with Cowen & cabinet) added hundreds of In 2013 Boston will host the World Irish cialized holidays for public employees. Ireland for varying good reasons, but millions of euros to every budget in direct Dancing Championships (March 24-31) Something called “Privilege Days” began the Irish can still look with optimism reversal of prudent budget recommenda- at the Hynes Memorial Auditorium in in the early years of the British civil at the real possibility it will win a one tions and reasonable spending limits. the Back Bay. …This year marks the service. Like Boston there were two of percent reduction in the bailout inter- There was always a few hundred million 75th anniversary of Aer Lingus. That these holidays, the King’s Birthday and est rate, saving $600 million a year of more to hand out during the run-up to first flight by Ireland’s national airline Empire Day. In 1922 when the Irish Free taxpayer euros. elections. Fourteen years of FF rule can was from Dublin to Bristol, England in State was established the two British Thirdly, it looks as though bank get to be expensive. May, 1936. Thirty years ago this month, holidays became a part of the Irish civil bondholders will finally have to pony A Fond Farewell to James “Bib- Bobby Sands, on a hunger strike in service. One Privilege Day was to be up some serious money if the upcoming ber” Bradley (Nov. 24, 1933 - March Long Kesh, was elected to the British taken at Easter, the other at Christmas. bank stress tests are as bad as feared. 1, 2011) – He was the best of all of us. Parliament in the Fermanagh-South Times have changed and public bud- Finally, a serious and sober Fine Gael He had no enemies except maybe deceit Tyrone by-election. gets have dramatically slimmed down, government will not any time soon be and meanness. I never in almost 50 years Page 6 April 2011 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com New Deal for Waterford – and Its Crystal By Ed Forry produced, at 1,300 degrees owns and operates the naming it after their BIR Publisher Celsius.” McCoy said that Waterford Crystal, Wedg- hometown. In the mid- Last summer marked the facility has become a wood, and Royal Doulton 1850s the company fell the opening the “House major attraction in Water- brands. The new venture on hard times, and ceased of Waterford Crystal,” a ford city. “On average, a immediately made plans manufacturing for almost new facility in Waterford quarter of a million people to open the Waterford city 100 years. The crystal city center, a place where tour every year.” facility, calling it “a new production resumed in the legendary crystal will The new resource, which beginning for Waterford the mid-20th century, be designed and manu- comprises a manufactur- Crystal.” and became well known factured, while allowing ing facility, visitor centre, “The craftsmen learn when the Irish govern- tourists to visit and see and retail outlet, restores their craft over eight ment started a tradition the original pieces being a history of over 200 years years,” McCoy says. “The of giving Waterford gifts made. The event ended of heritage in the city of secret of Waterford crystal to American presidents an 18-month period of Waterford. is the sparkle, from many from Dwight Eisenhower troubled times for the Founded in 1783, the different cuts.” He said to Ronald Reagan. It was historic crystal- making Waterford Crystal Co. had daily guided personalized Reagan who famously firm, and perhaps signals struggled on hard times in tours show the evolution kept a supply of jelly the start of a new and the last decade, leading of crystal. While only a beans in the Oval Office, promising era. to a filing for bankruptcy small portion of Waterford prominently displayed in The BIR met with Da- in 2009. is actually manufactured a Waterford dish. vid McCoy, the compa- In January 2010, a New at the new plant, he says Visitors to the centre ny’s commercial director, York firm, KPS Capital “Everything is designed will learn about the his- when he visited Boston Partners, known for its in Waterford. tory of crystal production last month with repre- expertise in “turnaround “We look forward to wel- in Waterford and the sentatives of other Irish investing,” purchased coming visitors from all manufacturing process, companies on a US busi- the name and assets over the world to our new while the retail centre has ness trip sponsored by of the crystal company centre, and to continuing the largest display of Wa- Tourism Ireland. out of receivership, and, the city terford Crystal anywhere “We opened a brand new working in a partnership of Waterford’s extraor- in the world. state of the art facility last with the Waterford City dinary tradition of pro- June,” McCoy said. “It’s Council, established a ducing crystal of the very For information on tours over 24,000 square feet; new venture, WWRD highest quality.” and dates and tickets, see we produce 45,000 pieces Group Holdings Limited. It was two brothers Wil- waterfordvisitorcentre. a year there. It’s an oppor- It is that company, a liam and George Penrose, com. tunity to see how crystal is luxury goods group, that David McCoy who founded the company, Difficult Subject, Difficult Questions at BC Forum By Patrick Gallagher his presentation said it In a 2010 interview that for the Clergy, which he who abused children for 40 McGarry said. This pat- Special to the BIR all: “Child Sexual Abuse took place shortly after leads, refused to recognize years in both the US and tern was continued under “I’m here to talk about and the Catholic Church: the release of the Ryan the child protection guide- Ireland, and that of Tony Paul Cullen, who in 1866 a very difficult subject for An Irish Disease and/or and Murphy reports about lines that were introduced Walsh, who was described became Ireland’s first an Irishman,” said Patsy Global Phenomenon?” abuse by Irish church- by the Irish bishops in a by the investigators be- cardinal and who was McGarry. “It is difficult McGarry, religious af- men, Cardinal Claudio 1996 “Framework Docu- hind the Murphy Report known for preaching that not to ask whether there is fairs correspondent for Hummes said, “The pain- ment,” which was updated as being one of the most celibacy was superior to something uniquely Irish The Irish Times, was ad- ful Irish happenings … in 2005. notorious child sexual married life. about this.” dressing remarks made by simply do not relate to The Vatican’s failure abusers in Ireland from A century later, accord- McGarry, religious af- a senior Vatican official the entire Episcopal min- to recognize either doc- 1975 to 2004. ing to McGarry, there fairs columnist for the last year that seemed to istry.” ument, said McGarry, Getting to the point of were nearly 5,500 priests Irish Times, was speak- suggest that the Irish McGarry contends that meant that a priest ac- his presentation, McGarry in Ireland – so many, in ing to a packed house culture may have had a one of the parties at fault cused of sexually abus- conceded that certain his- fact, that between a third at Boston College last particular influence on is Hummes himself, not- ing a child could appeal torical trends in Ireland and a half were not needed month, and the title of perpetuating the scandal. ing that the Congregation to the Vatican if action likely played a role in in parishes and instead was pending against the high number of Irish were sent on Catholic him, which often led to clergymen who were found missions abroad. the priest winning his to have abused children “It was said of Irish case when it came before throughout the twentieth seminaries that they were Church leadership. century. full of young men whose The Murphy Report “I have to acknowl- mothers had vocations to took on the Congrega- edge, however painful it the priesthood,” McGarry GREENHILLS BAKERY tion’s decision, “It is clear might be, that while it said. One tragic effect of Rome itself has profound is manifest throughout this surge of clergymen questions to answer con- [the world] … this cleri- was that problems with Taking Easter Dessert Orders Now! cerning the painful Irish cal child abuse problem Irish sexual issues were happenings.” does have a peculiar and driven to places where it • Hot Irish Breakfast McGarry, like so many significant Irish tinge,” would go unnoticed, he others in the follow-up McGarry said. added. • Irish Sausage Rolls to the scandal that first He traced the root of the Many of the priests who • Brown Soda Bread broke over the archdiocese problem to the effects of were found to have abused of Boston in 2002, insisted the Irish potato famine of children worked in paro- & Raisin Bread that a key problem has the 1840s, which he said chial schools where no one • Round Bannock been the cover-up by the resulted in the ending of would question a young Irish Church, in particular the subdivision of land boy or girl being with a • Treacle Soda Bread those bishops who know- holdings and a situation member of the clergy. ingly transferred priests where there were far “With boys, there was • Irish Barm Brack who had been accused of fewer landowners in post- no risk of pregnancy and abuse from one parish to famine Ireland. there was even less risk GUINNESS BEEF STEW another without taking With less land to go that they would talk,” Mc- IS ALWAYS AVAILABLE! punitive action. around that fathers could Garry said. “In single-sex He cited numerous cas- bequeath to their sons, institutions – schools, for es, including that of the greater numbers of men example – boys were even Hot, Home-Made, notorious Brendan Smith, began to enter the clergy, more accessible.” Stick-To-Your-Ribs Lunch Specials Daily!!! • Irish Boiled Dinner • Guinness Beef Stew • Shephard’s Pie Scones - 5 Flavors! Trifle Bailey’s Eclairs Baileys Sponge Cake Porter Cakes Bailey’s Swiss Rolls Barry’s Irish Tea Many Other Specials Every Day Greenhills Bakery Open Monday - Saturday 780 Adams Street, 5AM to 6:30PM Dorchester, MA 02124 Sunday 6AM - 2PM (617)825-8187 greenhillsbakery.com Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com April 2011 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 7 Putting a Human Face on a Holocaust Remembrance One of Ireland’s few questions and answers, that I owe to the victims, Holocaust survivors Tomi you could hear a pin drop that their memory is Reichental brought his in Stonehill’s Martin In- not forgotten,” is how message of remembrance stitute. Speaking softly Reichental explains his to Boston in late March as he told his harrow- mission of remembrance. with three successful area ing story, Tomi showed Ireland’s Department screenings of the docu- himself not just to be a of Integration has sent mentary Till The Tenth survivor of the Holocaust, copies of Till the Tenth Generation, which tells but someone who has no Generation to every post the story of how he was bitterness and who un- primary school in the sent to Bergen-Belsen con- derstands the meaning of country to assist with edu- centration camp as a nine- tolerance,” said Stonehill cation on the Holocaust. year old school boy and employee Steve Muzrall. In America, the Na- how he could not address “For 55 years, I did not tional Center for Jewish or discuss that experience talk about it, I could not Film at Brandeis Uni- until very recently. talk about it. And now versity is the distributor. While Reichental, now I am fulfilling a mission For information, contact an Irish citizen, survived that I speak and lecture www.jewishfilm.org or the Holocaust, 35 mem- in schools. It is something call 781-899-7044. bers of his Slovakian Jew- ish family did not. The documentary, is the first major Irish documen- tary about the Holocaust and had its North America premier at the Boston Director Gerry Gregg and Holocaust survivor Tomi Reichental speaking at Irish Film Festival on Stonehill after a screening of Till The Tenth Generation, the first major Irish FOLEY LAW OFFICES, P.C. Sunday, March 27 in the documentary about the Holocaust. Somerville Theatre before val, Reichental, along with in person, Reichental puts and informative account Attorney John Philip Foley a full house, which gave producer Gerry Gregg, a human face on this tragic of the Holocaust as expe- Permanent Residency & Citizenship • Family & Business Reichental a standing visited Stonehill College event in European and rienced by one survivor ovation at the end of the Immigration • Labor Certification & Temporary Visas and Brandeis University, world history. Retracing and his family. ALL Nationalities & AILA Members post-film conversation. receiving warm welcomes his wartime story and “During the documen- In the days following the at both locations. revisiting Bergen-Belsen, tary and afterwards with Boston Irish Film Festi- In the documentary and the film provides a moving Sandy Walter, at 63; Cultural Activist Born in a pub in County Galyway Ireland, Mick Morgan was destined to be the proprietor of Mick Morgan’s pub. Chrysandra (Sandy) ally. She was instru- Mick teamed up with his partner Finbar Griffin, owner Walter passed away on mental, along with Joe of Tommy Doyle’s and the Farragut House, and opened Mon., March 21, after a Wilson, in hosting the Mick Morgan’s of Sharon in March 2011. Following in lengthy and brave battle National Folk Festival the traditiion of friendly service and great food. Mick with cancer. She was 63 in Lowell Massachusetts and leaves her loving (1987-89), which today Morgan’s has quickly become a local favorite. husband, the famed fid- continues as the Lowell Mick Morgan’s menu gives a traditional Irish flare to dler Seamus Connolly, Folk Festival. She was your favorite American dishes. We are a family ori- and three stepchildren, also with her husband entated pub that offers genuine hospitality, charming Ronan, Darragh, and the central organizer Irish decor and much more. Keelin Connolly. of the acclaimed Gaelic Come by for a pint, entertainment or just great food. Sandy was respected Chrysandra Walter Roots Summer School Either way, Mick Morgans is sure to leave you smiling. as a caring, honest, Park Service veteran and Festival held at dedicated leader in the Boston College each June National Park Service, 2007 and moved to North between 1993 and 2003. where her 38-year ca- Yarmouth, Maine with In addition to her hus- reer took her all over Seamus. band and children, she The Boston Beara Society the country before she Sandy was beloved in leaves her mother and settled in as deputy re- the Irish-American com- stepfather, Winnie and gional director for NPS’s munity as a genuine en- Larry Moore, and her Annual Buffet Dinner Northeast Region. She thusiast for Celtic music sisters, Diane Evers and retired from the NPS in and for folk music gener- Debbie Contro. Will Recognize Fr. Dan Finn

Sunday, April 17, 2011 2:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Florian Hall, Dorchester Featuring door prizes Dance music by The Andy Healy Band Tickets $50 Must reserve in advance Call Pat Dwyer 617-328-6690 Mike Dwyer 781-326-1977 Page 8 April 2011 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com

Immigration Q & A Irish International Center An agency accredited by US Department of Justice So You Want 100 Franklin Street, Boston, MA 02110 to Study in USA? Telephone (617) 542-7654 Fax (617) 542-7655 Q. What are the basic requirements for a visa Website:iicenter.org Email: [email protected] that would allow me to study at a university in the United States? A. US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) applies a number of criteria in determining whether a Matters Of Substance prospective international student is eligible for an F-1 student visa. The most basic requirement is acceptance for enrollment in an “academic” education program, Buying a Round at Holiday Time: not a vocational-type program. Enrollment in an ac- credited college, university, seminary, conservatory, or language training program qualifies as academic It Can Be Fun, or Frustrating study. An academic student can be seeking a bach- elor’s, master’s, PhD, or other graduate-level degree, By Danielle Owen left over for our bills. There are other choices: or can be engaged in post-doctoral studies. Programs Special to the BIR We’ve all seen “Father Mention your concern to not considered to be “academic,” such as those offered Ted” and found ourselves one of your friends before by technical and vocational schools, would require the “I’m not able to get in the “Mrs Doyle” syn- going out. If they really issuance of an M-1 visa instead of an F-1 visa. The M-1 much work at the mo- drome – when someone care, they will support visa requirements are similar but not identical to those ment and have almost no won’t take no for an an- your decision. for the F-1 visa. money right now. With swer. “Ah, you will, you Try saying no to an of- Once you have been accepted by an accredited school, St. Patrick’s Day around will” have another drink! fered drink early on and the institution will issue appropriate documentation the corner, I told myself I When we surveyed mem- quietly go buy your own. for you to include in your visa application at the US would only spend a certain bers of the Boston Irish There is less expectation Embassy. amount when I go out with community, asking what of you to buy for others if In addition: the lads for that weekend. happens when people you are outside the round. – The applicant must intend to enroll in a school say “no” when offered an Maybe we could say, “I I just don’t know how to Danielle Owen approved by the US Attorney General for attendance handle when it comes to unwanted drink, one in won’t just now, thanks,” by foreign students. my turn to buy a round. three said that they had leaving the impression saying “no” doesn’t mean – The Student and Exchange Visitor Information I feel mean by not buying taken it, when they didn’t you might have another you have a problem with System (SEVIS) put into place after the September 11, it, even though I know I want to, but felt so pres- drink later even though drink. But if you do find 2001 attacks introduced a number of changes in the might not have enough for sured they believed they you know you won’t. yourself drinking and/ process by which the Department of Homeland Security all my bills. I enjoy being couldn’t refuse. It is hard but the key or spending more than ensures that a school is eligible to participate in the F-1 out with my friends but We may be driving or to saying “no” is prac- planned more and more process. Schools must demonstrate that they are legiti- I just can’t afford to buy on medication or just not tice. You are right to often, it may be a symptom mate educational institutions and appoint a designated rounds anymore. What want to drink anymore act responsibly, not to of a larger problem. school official (DSO) who will sign all necessary forms. should I do?” that night. The person of- spend more than you’ve If you are concerned, – The international student must be intending to fering may not understand budgeted for, and to say there is someone you can enroll in a “full course of study” at the school, which You are not alone! If why we are saying no. The “no” if you don’t want chat with: Contact Dani- generally means at least 12 credit hours each semester. you drink here, or in Ire- person who is saying, another, for whatever elle, either via phone or – The international student must provide proof of land, the “round” system “Ah, go on...” may actu- reason. It does not mean e-mail, in complete confi- proficiency in English or be enrolled in English language is very much the norm. ally have a drink problem you are a “killjoy’ or don’t dence, at the IIIC: Phone: courses leading to proficiency. Sometimes we feel our himself/herself. As long know how to have fun. It 617-542-7654, Ext.14; e- – The international student must have sufficient funds only choices are to either as you are drinking with means you’re an adult and mail: [email protected] available for full support during the entire proposed not go out at all or drink them, no one notices how acting in your own best course of study. and have little money much they are drinking. interests. This difficulty in – The international student must maintain a residence abroad that he or she has no intention of abandoning and must intend to leave the US upon completion of the course of study. Irish International BC to Get Archive Issues of non-immigrant intent and finance: One of Immigrant Center the most important issues in obtaining a student visa of ‘Troubles’ Era involves “non-immigrant intent.” This is probably the 100 Franklin St., Lower Level 1, Boston, Massachusetts 02110 most closely scrutinized element of the application Enter at 60 Arch Street or 201 Devonshire Street Boston College will be the repository for the archive process. USCIS and the US Embassy in your home Tel: (617)542-7654 • Fax: (617)542-7655 • www.iicenter.org of documents representing the oversight proceedings country will need to be satisfied that you do not have relating to the voluntary surrender of arms by para- the intention of immigrating to the US, of failing to military organizations in Northern Ireland during the maintain full-time student status, or of overstaying past decade. your student visa. To prove non-immigrant intent, you A Taste of Ireland Thomas Hachey, executive director of The Center will need to show ongoing ties to your home country. for Irish Programs at Boston College, expressed ap- These could include having immediate relatives, home Sunday, February 13, 2011 from 1pm preciation for the persistent efforts of Sean Aylward, ownership, apartment leases, ongoing affiliation with Cape Cod Irish Village, 822 Main St. Secretary General of Ireland’s Department of Justice, community/church groups, or an offer of employment Equality and Law Reform to get the archive. South Yarmouth, MA 02264 or plans for further academic study or training upon Hachey, who is also University Professor of History your return home. at Boston College, described the documents as an in- Another major issue in obtaining a student visa in- credibly valuable collection for future studies on the volves finances. You need to be prepared to prove that Black and Green era of “The Troubles” in Northern Ireland. Under Irish you have the means to support yourself and pay tuition and British law the archive could be inaccessible for a and fees while studying in the US. Some US colleges Sunday, March 6, 2011 from 2pm period of 30 years, a provision that comports with the are very expensive (including even public colleges with Lessons about Hope: Resilience in the Face of Disaster embargo on government archives in much of the world respect to the tuition charged to “out-of-state” residents), Montserrat Aspirers Hall, Dorchester at present. There will, however, be periodic review and you would need to be able to demonstrate access to that may grant notably earlier access if approved by considerable funds to apply for a visa to attend them. the appropriate Anglo-Irish authorities. Once you enter the USA on the F-1 visa: Be aware With gratitude to the Irish Government The archive will be housed in the Special Collections that at the end of your course of study it may be pos- at the Burns Library where Burns Librarian Dr. Robert for 20 years of ongoing funding and for their care sible to apply for a period of Optional Practical Train- O’Neill has already compiled an impressive array of ing (OPT) in the US employing the skills that you and concern for the Irish community. valuable Northern Ireland collections. have acquired, and allowing you to be paid during the The collection, which contains both Commission training. This maximum time allowed usually is one deliberations, as well as a few personal notebooks kept year, with some exceptions, but if you work full-time by Commission members, will be curated over time. during school vacations, that time will be subtracted from the one year available to you at the end of your course of study. Study on a J-1 Visa: A J-1 exchange visa for aca- demic study (administered by the US State Department The Tinker’s Cart rather than USCIS) may be appropriate in some situa- tions instead of an F-1 visa. Many of the requirements are comparable, but there are differences depending on the circumstances of each individual case. International Student Advisors may assist you: US colleges and universities that admit international stu- dents typically have advisers and files of information to assist you in your application, including determining Irish Blessings for your whether the F-1 or J-1 visa is a better fit for you. All colleges have websites, and typically they contain a section with very detailed information for prospective First Communion international students. For a free, confidential consultation on this or any other immigration issue, visit one of our weekly legal clinics advertised in The Boston Irish Reporter. Disclaimer: These articles are published to inform generally, not to advise in individual cases. Areas of law are rapidly 54 High St. changing. US Citizenship and Immigration Services and the US Department of State regularly amend regula- Clinton tions and alter processing and filing procedures. For legal advice seek the assistance of an IIC immigration 978-365-4334 www.tinkerscart.com specialist or an immigration lawyer. Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com April 2011 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 9

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6. 7. BRETT’S BOSTON 8. By Margaret Brett Hastings Exclusive photos of Boston Irish people & events

he County Sligo Association of TBoston held its third annual St. Patrick’s dinner dance on Sunday, March 13 at Florian Hall. The group presented its Sligo “Men of the Year” awards to Jim Brett and Seamus Healy, both with deep ancestral roots in county Sligo. Music and merriment was provided by the Andy Healy Band.

1.) Award Recipients Seamus Healy and 9. 10. Jim Brett pictured with State Senator Steven Tolman (center); 2.) Joan and Herbert Gray, Braintree; 3.) Bridget Ryan, Brighton; Monica Healy and her daughter Ciara of Newton; 4.) Sr. Marguerite Kelly, Irish Pastoral Center; Andy Healy, Presi- dent, Sligo Association of Boston; Marion Quinn, Treasurer of the Sligo Association of Boston; 5.) Sr. Marguerite Kelly, Deirdre NiFhalluin, Vice Consul General and her husband Paul Brandon; Fiona Healy; 6.) Raymond McVeigh, Dover; Marie Burns, Quincy; 7.)Hugh McKay and wife Elizabeth Gray McKay, Cambridge; 8.) Mary Ellen McCarthy and mother Mary of Quincy; 9.) Marge and Mike Joyce of Dorcheser; 10.) Diane Colleary of Wareham; 11.) Seamus Johnston, Norwood; Ann Marie McVeigh, Dover; George Boulger (standing) W. Roxbury; Mary Ford, W. Roxbury; Kevin Johnston, W. Roxbury.

11. Page 10 April 2011 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com ‘My home away from home’ John McDermott Talks of His Roots and Family

By Ed Forry the street, introducing him- Reporter Publisher self and inviting his new Singer John McDermott was in Boston during the neighbors to come visit on St. Patrick’s activities last month, a brief overnight the next Friday or Saturday stay at the Seaport Hotel- “My home away from nights. home”- between gigs in Salisbury and Scituate. “The first Friday, no one A native of Glasgow, McDermott’s mom and dad came; on Saturday four or are Scotland natives with deep roots to Ireland: his five came, and three of those father Peter’s family are Donegal, his mother Hope’s people had never met each family (Griffin) are Ballymena in Antrim, just north other and they had lived of Belfast. The family relocated to Ontario Canada there for years.” in 1965, when the singer was just 10 years old. The next week, he says John McDermott burst on the music scene in the his dad went down the other early 1990’s, when EMI Music issued McDermott’s side of the street, extending “Danny Boy.” In those early years, he toured with the same invitation. That the Chieftains, and had early success as a solo per- next Friday and Saturday former in Australia, New Zealand and the UK. As nights there were even his popularity grew, in 1998 he headed up a singing more neighbors coming to trio, The Irish Tenors, and together with Anthony the house. Kearns and Ronan Tynan, the group became hugely “We had a great time, and popular around the US. after that first week the He left the group and returned to solo performing place was jammed every in 2000, and has toured extensively since that time. Friday night and Satur- He developed a special dedication to the plight of day in the basement of my veterans, and supports a transitional home for home- house, with chairs all way less veterans in Washington DC, and has helped around the room and we got raise funds for Fisher House Boston, a facility on to know each other.” the grounds of the VA hospital in West Roxbury that It was the beginning of a provides a temporary home for families of hospital- McDermott family ritual- ized veterans. The BIR spoke with him during his on the weekend nights, the stay at the Seaport Hotel, where he spoke about his family would welcome their parents and the 12 McDermott siblings. neighbors, and gathering “I’m number nine, three younger than me. It was up chairs in the basement, a tough time,” McDermott says. The weak economy everyone would be asked of the mid 60s left his father looking for work in to sing their favorite song. Glasgow, and he made the decision to uproot the Each child would perform family and come to North America. a favorite song- “Danny “We had family in Long Island, family in the states Boy was mine, my broth- and my father would have gone to the states, but he ers was the “Green Fields couldn’t find a job. A guy in Toronto offered a job,” of France”, Elizabeth was working in coal and ore mines in northern Quebec, “The Dutchman.” I remem- about ten hours north of Toronto, he says, so it was ber my sisters would sing off to Canada for them. pop songs,” he says. John McDermott: One of 12 siblings who emigrated with his parents. The family arrived by ship, and as it sailed up For his part, McDermott “I had a plan in the second half of the show to the St Lawrence River in early November 1965, “It attributes his musicality in part to those weekly make my mother and father stand up and be ac- was the night of the Eastern Seaboard blackout. in-home singing sessions in his father’s basement, knowledged. My manager at the time is running The ship hit another ship, and was delayed, and as well as to the two years he spent in a boy’s choir around wildly, trying to find someone who looked we had to return to Quebec. at St. Michael’s Choir School in Toronto. To this like my dad. At the hospital, my mother and my “We were a day late getting to Toronto and the guys day, he says his best friends are old friends from brother Tony- he’s the reincarnation of my dad- they he was supposed to meet had left, they were gone. that boys choir. said everything is ok, and they stitched him up and “In Toronto, my father got in touch with a priest At school, the boys would spend two hours every put a bandage on him. and he hooked him up with St Vincent DePaul day on the music, and each were assigned four days “And he got up. And the doctor said ‘Where are Church. And they found us an apartment, it was at week at the daily mass- either as altar servers, you going?’ and he said ‘I’m going to the show.’ And sandwiched between St Vincent DePaul school or in the smaller daily choirs. Every Sunday, the my mother says ‘No, Peter, you lie down.’ My father and St Vincent DePaul church. Several hundred choir would sing at three masses at the Toronto said ‘You and Anthony can stay here if you like yards down the road was a place called Hyde park, Cathedral: “The ten-fifteen, the 11-fifteen and the but I’m going to go out and get a taxi and go to the a place where we could go and play, so my father twelve-ten masses,” McDermott recalls. Royal Alexandra.’ And in the second half, when the said, ‘There are three reasons you should never Even as music was an important part of his fam- lights went up, he stood up as proud as hell with be in the apartment- you have three places to go.’ ily life, McDermott simply reveres the memory of that white bandage around his head, and he took “A guy in Toronto offered him a job the night we his mother and father and the family life they had his bow. He was very theatrical, and you know... a arrived. He got the job- he was a glazer by trade. in Tonronto. highlight, it was a highlight…” “God acts in mysterious ways.” “I am discovering that I am starting to write He passed away less than two months later, in The job that he missed was in McIntyre Mines, music. I’ve written some things and I’m surprised January, 1995, at the age of 80. Peter McDermott ten hours north of Toronto. “Life would’ve been very when I come up with; I found that it’s really easy was a World War 2 veteran of the RAF and John different because it’s a very French-Canadian area, if you’re honest with yourself and you write what remembers he had said to him in 1993, “If you get still is to this day. But six months after that job you’re feeling, if you write what happened, if you some success, promise me you will give back and was offered, the mine closed, so we would’ve been just tell the story. look after the veterans.” a family of 12 up in northern Ontario. “You know, (my Dad) he always had a line: you “I never forget him, because he’s on stage with “As it turned out we all ended up at school, and never know where the road is going but just keep me every night,” the 55 year old singer says fondly. all the siblings got jobs. We were a family of trades going to the end of the road; if you come to some “I have his hat and cane -- his bonnet --and my and my father believed in the trades; if you want to hurdles move them over. So this end of the road mother’s scarf.” continue and get education you can do that but get basically is the story of his life- you leave the shore On his latest CD, Mc Dermott says there are two a trade. So we have electricians, carpenters, pipe onto the sea, and you don’t know where you’re going tracks dedicated to veterans. “It’s called Journey- fitters. Everyone worked.” and that’s exactly what you did, you put yourself this is what the families are going through. He’s Growing up, the 12 siblings would turn in their in his position. never coming home. Bringing Buddy home. paychecks to their father each week, he says. “If “They were both in their early 50s when they left “I see myself wanting to help those that can’t help there was something left after the bills were paid Scotland, with 12 children, and they leave everything themselves for no other reason than they have had a the boys got something to go buy a pint or two or they know- their friends. their lifestyle, everything- lousy break. I find myself trying to help those who I go on a date- whatever. Today the kids would just for us. It can’t be for another reason- they certainly know have the ability but need a break and aren’t in spend it, but that was just the way it was. He was didn’t do it for themselves. They did it for us and a position to ask for it. I like to do that with young a clever man, my dad” they did it without question. I can remember people musicians and I’ve done it with a number of them. Eight months after settling into the one bedroom coming to the house in the weeks leading up to our It’s almost instinct now you know, we are so lucky apartment, McDermott says his dad found a house departure and my mother giving everything away. in having the people who brought us here. You still to buy, and he went to the bank for a mortgage loan. She sold nothing, she gave everything away. To learn from them. “’I’d like to borrow $27,500, enough to buy a house,’ those that need it you know. And I think that’s why “My father had a philosophy that he would never and the bank manager at the time- he later became most of us turned out pretty good.” tell you what to do, but he was a bugger with this a great friend- said to him, ‘I admire your fortitude McDermott recalled with some emotion that his line: he’d say, ‘If I were you, that’s what I would do.’ but you don’t have any collateral.’” dad had seen him perform in concert just once, in “I made the mistake of not doing it once and it At that, McDermott says his dad opened the bank Toronto, two months before he died. “My dad saw at backfired on me.” manager’s door, and in marched five McDermott least the potential for (my) success. In November of McDermott says he feels especially comfortable sons- each of them with a letter from their employer. 1994, there was a sold out Christmas tour show in in Boston: “I feel Boston is my second home. From “They said, if my father ever failed to make a Toronto at a place for the Royal Alexandra Theatre, day one in 1995 when I did my first show in Boston- payment on that loan that the bank can have the one of the oldest and finest theaters in the country. after the show we shuffled off to Doyle’s in Jamaica salaries. And the guy says, ‘you’ve got the loan.’ And it was jammed. And that night, as he stepped Plain- and it’s a memory that will stay with me “My brother lives in that house today.” out of the car at the front door, he slipped and he until my death. In the new neighborhood, McDermott says his struck his head. I had no idea that happened, and “That was a night to remember. The only thing dad went out and walked up and down one side of the ambulance came and took him away. they closed at night were the curtains.” Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com April 2011 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 11 Boston irish Boston Irish Arts, Entertainment, Reporter Travel & More inSESSION/Sean Smith A Rejuvenation at ICCNE Another in the occasional series, “inSession,” which profiles the wealth and diversity of regularly occurring Irish and Celtic music sessions in, or reasonably near, the Greater Boston area. The Irish Cultural Centre of New England Where: 200 New Boston Drive, Canton When: Saturdays at 8 p.m. Began: 2005 Good sessions – and dearly loved ones – never die, at least not completely. Sometimes they just take root in a different patch of ground, while retaining much of the character that drew people in the first place. Such is the case with the weekly session at the Irish Cultural Centre of New England in Canton. The core group that populates and animates the Saturday night gathering had for some years been the driving force behind a storied session at the Blackthorne Tavern in Easton. That session ended following a change in ownership, but for the better part of five years now has found rejuvenation at the ICC pub. It’s not just that names and faces have moved to a new address, however, according to ICC session regulars. The Blackthorne spirit and vibe also lives on, they say: Like its predecessor, the ICC session is inclusive, family-oriented, and with little distinction between participants and onlookers. “It’s the most welcoming session I know of,” says fid- dler and singer Amy Basse, a Blackthorne veteran who leads the session with guitarist-mandolinist-vocalist Michael Kelleher. “My fiddle students come here a lot, because they know they’ll get support and encourage- ment, and it’s a great opportunity for them to get used to playing in public. A lot of people, whether they can play an instrument, or sing, or dance – or do none of those things – really make the session a regular part of their week.” For all the similarities that remain from the Black- “Instinctively, people seem to feel this connection to the harp,” says Aine Minogue, “even if they’re not thorne era, the ICC session does have its own persona, sure why.” starting with the venue itself. Regulars note a sym- biosis at work – the center gives the session a home, while the session provides the center with a regular means of public outreach, as well as a chance to af- Echoing Across Millennia, firm the social component of its mission. Even if you don’t formally join the ICC – and the session-goers reiterate that membership is not required for you to the Irish Harp Shapes a Land come out on Saturday night – you at least know that it’s there, and that it’s one of the Boston area’s most (Continued from page 1) from the concept of the as you listen to the two an instrumentalist. Her active sources for things Irish. Laurel Martin, among bow and arrow, a very voices, the melody and the children’s piano teacher Although you can certainly enjoy the ICC session others, is intrigued by the basic part of many cul- bass, you’re aware of that had a small harp that he throughout the year, it’s during the warm-weather literal and metaphorical tures, so there’s that hint third voice – it’s subtle, but lent to Delaney, and she months that the center’s charms are most in evidence properties found in the of the ancient to it. But it’s there.” was smitten – in fact, she (once you drive a few hundred yards through the harp’s presence. think about the harp’s Of course, it’s one thing wound up studying with industrial park that acts as a buffer between it and “If you look at the harp, sheer physicality: It has to appreciate the instru- Minogue. Route 138). On a fine spring or summer’s evening, for what’s one of the first the shape of a triangle ment, and quite another to “It’s so much easier instance, it’s hard not to be impressed by the play of things you notice? That – three parts. There is, play it. Minogue, Delaney, when you have a teacher,” sunset on the center’s extensive greenery as you make between each string is again, something ancient and Guilday each took says Delaney. “That’s one your way from the parking lot to the ICC headquarters; a space. Each string, of at work here: the idea that very different paths to be- important piece of advice you might even find yourself walking past a group course, represents a note. a triangle consists of two come harpists, and at dif- as far as learning harp of youngsters finishing up soccer or Gaelic football And when I play, it’s the elements different from ferent stages of their lives. goes: Find someone you practice on one of the ICC athletic fields. ‘space’ between the notes one another, plus a third Minogue was a young girl can connect with – you In many settings, a session – however much it might that really interests me. element representing a in boarding school when don’t have to like them, be appreciated – tends not to alter the overall routine at That space is so stark, it mixture of those two. she “became besotted” just be able to work with its host pub. While some customers may pay attention accentuates the melody.” “Well, when you play a by the sound of the Irish them. to the music, even to the point of applauding, plenty of Minogue agrees that harp, you actually produce harp, which she heard “The other piece of ad- others are apt to treat it as ambience, on a par with a there’s something visually three sounds. With one in the unlikely setting vice is, don’t run out and jukebox or televised sporting event. But at the ICC, the and aurally compelling hand you play the melody, of her school’s 112-piece buy a harp at the begin- session is the main event, and while conversations do about the harp, in large with the other you play the orchestra. Delaney came ning. You have to find out take place sotto voce and a Red Sox, Bruins, or Celtics part because it suggests bass. And this creates the to the harp as a middle- first if you really want to broadcast might be screening on the TV (with sound historical connotations third voice, that combina- aged mother drawn to do this, and if you find out down, of course), the pub collectively turns its focus stretching back centuries. tion of overtones the other Irish music sessions, but that you don’t want to, on the center of the room where Basse, Kelleher, and “The original harp came two voices produce. Even as a singer rather than (Continued on page 15) the night’s other musicians are holding forth. The ICC session’s “family” dynamic can also be described as multigenerational, with just about ev- Another Opening, Another Show ery age demographic represented. Children are most definitely seen and sometimes heard: Infants and For Boston Publicist Sheehan toddlers snooze in carriers, or loll in a parent’s arms as they take in the scene around them with wide-eyed By R. J. Donovan the night’s performance. the demands of the show amazement or mellow serenity; pre-school and early Special to The BIR This is Ann Sheehan, Di- that’s currently running. elementary school-age youngsters fidget as they sit, The lobby of The Colo- rector of Public Relations Juggling becomes both a or give into their curiosity and restlessness to roam nial Theatre is a sea of & Community Relations talent and a necessity. around the room, often taking interest in some of faces. It’s Opening Night for Broadway Across She has publicized the the musical instruments (and occasionally earning a for the musical “Hair,” America-Boston. Boston engagements of “don’t touch!” reprove from a parent or friendly adult); and anticipation is in Ann’s work is a maze some of Broadway’s big- middle-schoolers evince early-onset maturity, chatting the air. As people crowd of negotiating inter- gest hits, from “The Pro- politely with a solicitous senior citizen while keeping views, television cover- ducers” and “Movin’ Out” cell phone at the ready for an urgent burst of texting. the box office to pick up “We love that there are kids here,” says Melissa their tickets, a smartly age, photo shoots and to “Hairspray,” “Mamma Foley, lightly bouncing nine-month-old daughter Wren dressed young woman personal appearances, Mia!” and “Wicked.” She in her arms. “I’ve been coming to this session since the with long dark hair and all to spread the word also handled publicity, Ann Sheehan Blackthorne days, and it feels wonderful to be a Mom a dazzling smile is on about a show. There’s not only for the reopen- Promoter on the go. and have it still be part of my life.” the opposite side of the advance publicity to co- ing of Boston’s magnifi- King.” Along the way Basse and Kelleher usually alternate a set of tunes lobby, greeting members ordinate for productions cent Opera House, but she has rubbed elbows with a song, whether a traditional ballad, a popular of the media, many of yet to come, while simul- for its inaugural produc- (Continued on page 17) whom will be reviewing taneously dealing with tion of Disney’s “The Lion (Continued on page 15) Page 12 April 2011 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com

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The White House presents a touch of green for St. Patrick’s Day. AP photo President and Taoiseach Celebrate Ireland Obama: Nights Like This Kenny: Mr. President, Our Show Us How Much We Share Destiny Is A Shared Prospect (Continued from page 1) of an American Slave. And even as the (Continued from page 1) is our task. Like so many immigrants who came book was a bestseller, Douglass began not a self-contained journey, because on This is the task of political leaders, to call this country home, these men receiving steady streams of threats to another Atlantic coast other people were because not only are we leaders but also and women were guided by a deep faith his life. So he decided to embark on a waiting – waiting to be herded into ships; fathers and parents teaching our chil- and an unwavering belief that here in two-year lecture tour of the British Isles mothers soothing children, perhaps not dren, our countries’ children, about duty America a better life is available for until things cooled down. He began even their own; husbands calling for and about obligation, the need to fight anybody who’s willing to try. And even by spending four months in Ireland, wives; wives calling for husbands. Two cruelty, the need to fight injustice and though they weren’t always welcomed in far from the threat of slave catchers, peoples on the far coasts of one ocean, inhumanity, wherever it happens. Our their new land, they persevered. They where he quickly found common ground where in the words of Seamus Heaney, stories, indeed, might be singular but built and led and defended our country with the people locked in their struggle tireless waves came glinting, sifting from we do know that our destiny, our chil- while still holding fast to their heritage. against oppression. As Douglass wrote, the Americas. And that was Africa’s dren’s destiny, is a shared prospect. Mr. And in many ways, what it means to be “I have spent some of the happiest mo- Cape Coast, and Ireland’s Cape Clear. President, we meet here in this historic Irish helped to define to what it means ments of my life since landing in this Two peoples who would cross that building almost at the spring equinox, to be American. country. I seem to have undergone a single dividing ocean – the Irish to free- when new light returns to our lives. You That’s why today when we think transformation. I live a new life.” dom; the Africans to slavery. Though will come to us in May, the start of what about a Tip O’Neill – whose daughter, by It was at a Dublin rally that Doug- they didn’t know it, in time theirs were was known as the Celtic summer -- or as the way, is here tonight and his grand- lass met the Irish nationalist Daniel the genes that would build this great we call it in the Gaelic language, in the daughter, and it was wonderful to meet O’Connell. And soon, the two struck up country of the United States of America. Irish language, Bealtaine, the feast of them – or a Ronald Reagan, we see an an unlikely friendship. O’Connell was a They actually are the genes that unite the bright fires. And when you do, sir, example of how it’s possible to argue fierce opponent of slavery, and he began us this evening in the White House, you will return to your own people, your over policy without sacrificing friend- calling Douglass “the black O’Connell of designed by an Irish architect: to claim own place. Mr. President, you will come, ship; how it’s easy to disagree without the United States.” and to celebrate Saint Patrick, who came in a way, home to Ireland. So tonight, being disagreeable, if you make the For his part, Douglass drew inspira- himself to redeem the soul of a people. let me paraphrase the words of one more effort. When we think about a Henry tion from the Irishman’s courage and in- And he was slave. Mr. President, at famous than I: “Let the world go forth Ford or a Cyrus McCormick, we see the telligence, ultimately modeling his own Cape Coast Clear you said it seemed as if from this time and place. Let it go forth ingenuity that has driven generations of struggle for justice on O’Connell’s belief the walls were talking. They might well high and clear into the eves of this great Americans to build the businesses and that change could be achieved peacefully have said: respect, mercy, obligation – city; that the bonds between Ireland and create the inventions that have helped through rule of law. Daniel O’Connell never again. Because I, too, believe in America as warm and as strong as they’ve makes a nation an engine of prosperity. never lived to see another great emanci- the intense, unyielding, but compassion- ever been in the history of our two great When we think about an Audie Mur- pator named Abraham Lincoln put pen to ate Patrick; that his life unites us here countries – warm and strong and vigor- phy or a John King, two of the hundreds paper and bring slavery to an end. But today not only in our Irish ancestry but ous, and so they shall remain. Because of Irish Americans who have won the the two men shared a universal desire for also in our common heredity. we are united, inspired, sustained by Medal of Honor, we see the heroism and freedom – one that cannot be contained As President Kennedy said about our faith -- our faith, I might say, in bravery that comes with risking your by language or culture or even the span his Family of Man two weeks before he the audacity of hope. Thank you, Mr. own life for your country. of an ocean. And stories like this remind passed away, “If our society is to promote President. Thank you. And God bless When we think about a family like us just how deeply intertwined our two the Family of Man, then let us realize you and the people of America and the the Kennedys, we see a steadfast belief nations are. Nights like this remind us the magnitude of our task.” And in the work you do for the oppressed and the in the importance of service and the duty how much we share. places around the world, nobody knows disadvantaged around the world. And each of us has to stand up for those who And so as we celebrate together, let that more than the man standing behind thank you on behalf of the people of Ire- can’t stand up for themselves. us take a moment to appreciate all that me, the President of the United States. land. My concluding words are these: I In so many ways, the Irish and their Ireland has given to America -- the Whether the Family of Man has to be know now that miracles do happen. The descendants have set an example for faith we keep, the family we hold close, promoted across the valleys of Kenya, or fountain is green and I’ve arrived in the us as a people. But they’ve also set an the laughter and song and warmth we the mountains of Ireland, or the scattered East Room here in the White House. example for us as a nation struggling to feel when surrounded by the ones we islands of Indonesia, or in the wreckage One week in office: enough to build the be more just and more free. love. On behalf of the American people of Japan with that country’s difficulties world – that’s what the creator had. If In 1845, Frederick Douglass, the great I want to thank the people of Ireland. at the moment, or whether, Mr. Presi- we keep this up, Ireland will be great fighter for freedom here in this country, In the years ahead, may our sons and dent, we have to take it to places that again inside a very short time. had just published his Narrative of a Life daughters only grow closer.” are still forgotten around the world, this Page 14 April 2011 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com BIR Music Irvine’s distinctive accompaniment style – with guest edge of dissonance – until it is resolved in “Julia’s appearances by fiddlers Bruce Molsky and Rens van Norwegian Polka,” where Begley, as O Raghallaigh der Zalm, and then on “The Demon Lover,” with relates in the sleeve notes, “takes to the chair and Molsky, Lunny, and Nikola Parov; the latter is easily belts the boards with his bare-toed sandals.” On CD one of the album’s highlights, with the shifting time “O’Sullivan’s March,” Begley sets mood and pace by signature and Balkan instrumentation helping cre- first establishing the rhythm through aspirating his Reviews ate an aptly suspenseful, supernatural atmosphere. accordion’s bellows (it sounds like some fearsome But it’s the Irvine compositions “Mother Jones,” beast in the midst of great labors) and then launch- ing into the tune, he and O Raghallaigh trading off By Sean Smith an appreciation of legendary labor agitator Mary Andy Irvine, “Abocurragh” – Welcome back, Harris, and “Victory at Lawrence” – recalling the octaves. O Raghallaigh breaks out a hardanger fiddle Andy, we’ve missed you. 1912 strike in that Massachusetts city’s woolen for a solo polka set, and the result is breathtaking – OK, it’s not as if Irvine’s been invisible in the mills – that are especially noteworthy, even if it’s a something not quite of Ireland nor of Scandinavia, 10 years since he matter of timing. Irvine has never been shy about but with the best qualities of both. released “Way Out manifesting his pro-worker, left-of-center views ala Don’t get the idea that it’s all quirks and oddities. Yonder,” having re- Woody Guthrie, and the arrival of these songs comes The two musicians are acutely aware of the tradi- corded two albums as the US is in the midst of intense debate over the tion in which they toil, and the album’s hornpipe set with Mozaik and role of labor unions. Whether or not you agree with reflects this. It’s played fairly straightforwardly, and another with Planx- Irvine’s political views, at the very least he encourages brilliantly – listen for the turns on “The Chancellor” ty as part of their listeners to put the recent controversy in Wisconsin and “The Frisco,” credited to the repertoires of no less regularly occurring into a greater historical context. And that’s the mark than Denis Murphy and Johnny Leary. Begley’s treat- reunion tour. But of a good songwriter. ment of the air “An Chead Mhairt den Fhomhair” is his solo albums truly stirring and dignified, and the most steadfast traddie give the measure Brendan Begley & Caoimhin O Raghallaigh, surely will have no complaints about their “Humours of the man and his “A Moment of Madness” – of Lisheen/Munster Jig/Sean Coughlin’s” medley. gifts, as a pioneering Anyone who’s seen accordionist Begley and fiddler The album ends with Christy Leahy’s “P&O Polka,” instrumentalist on bouzouki, mandola, mandolin, and O Raghallaigh perform together (as they did last fall which Begley introduces slowly and deliberately (and harmonica, as a foremost interpreter of traditional at Boston College) knows that, visually, they make for with sumptuous bass) until O Raghallaigh helps him songs – not to mention contemporary ones – and a study in contrasts: Begley, with clean-shaven head, bring it up to a more familiar tempo, and then the as a songwriter of seemingly boundless depth and large frame and jocular bearing; O Raghallaigh, of a two take turns pushing the tune along until the track creativity. slighter build and nature, sometimes shaggy-haired fades out – as if to say that the tune will never re- What’s particularly delightful about “Abocurragh” and bearded and sometimes less so. They’ve also ally end. Or that they’ll never stop playing it. Either is how, even as Irvine gathers now-familiar elements traversed Irish music in different ways: Begley, a eventuality would be fine indeed. of his musical career around him, notably his mates member of the Boys of from Planxty and Mozaik, he explores new dimensions the Lough, is steeped Lucy Foley, “Copenhagen” – Clare native Foley via collaborations with Norwegian musician Anneb- in the Kerry tradition spent three years in Copenhagen working as a street jorg Lien, adding to the rich mix of Irish, American, of slides and polkas, performer and photographer, and, evidently, finding and Eastern European influences that have marked and possessed of a her singer-songwriter muse. This seven-track CD is his work through the years. Lien’s hardanger fiddle striking voice suited full of the sort of vivid imagery and flights of fancy and nyckelharpa, with their exotic, resonant tonal to both Irish and nurtured by an existence devoted to pursuit of both qualities, bring a special plaintiveness to Irvine’s English songs; O the visual and the dramatic arts, with the mysteries rendition of “Emptyhanded,” George Papavgeris’s Raghallaigh, who of relationships seen through the prism of the natu- lament for the Australian farmers – those who came drew acclaim for his ral/primal world one minute, or in the context of a over with the first wave of convicts, as well as later collaborations with carnival or fairy tale the next. In “Making Circles,” immigrants – battling severe weather and equally Mick O’Brien, Cathe- two people trying to find their comfort zone with each severe financial constraints (mention also must be rine McEvoy, Peadar other are “like punch-drunk October flies in pointless made of the fine backing vocals by Kate Burke and O Riada, and Martin rapture/dancing one final dance before the capture”; Ruth Hazleton). Lien and fellow Norwegian Lilleb- Hayes, among others, is known as much for his ex- the brassy, hard-edged “That Pleasant Smile” is all jorn Nilsen join Irvine on “Oslo,” an Irvine memoir perimentation, whether through use of non-standard about impatience, doubt and incompatibility (“Your in the spirit of “O’Donoghues” that marries comical tunings and instruments or electronic enhancements, smile is made of chain lyrics to a stately, spare Norwegian mazurka – and as for his playing. mail, baby/it fixes makes it all the more hilarious. On this, their first CD as a duo, Begley andO your mood at smug Donal Lunny and Liam O’Flynn help evoke the Raghallaigh very effectively merge their musical as with no swing/your halcyon Planxty days on the traditional ballads well as personal characters to create a body of work defenses are strong “Three Huntsmen,” a cautionary tale for would-be that is by turns propulsive, mesmerizing, occasion- now, don’t you worry/ good samaritans, and “Willy of Winsbury,” with its ally irreverent, and even a little outrageous. The 12 I’m not planning to famously poignant melody that Richard Thompson tracks were recorded in six different locations, one mount an uprising”). adapted for his “Farewell, Farewell.” (Lunny is in fact of them in a concert setting, which lends the album Stylistically, Fol- a constant here, since he turns up on just about every a vagabondish feel; whatever the location, the two ey’s songs run the track and is the album’s producer to boot.) Mozaik are able to find their individual and shared groove. gamut from grunge to gets its turn in the spotlight on the Fermanagh bal- “A Moment of Madness” is a decided departure Motown to klezmer, lad “James Magee” – which in particular showcases from the conventional presentation of traditional Irish as well as rock and instrumental music as set pop; vocally, she has upon set of reels and little that Kate Bush combination of child-like wonder or no embellishments or and occasionally discomforting other-worldliness, cross-hatching; polkas, which she shows on “It’s a Tangle,” a waltz-tempo marches, jigs and slides bit of frothiness pumped up by multi-instrumentalist are plentiful here, with Ross Bonadonna’s keyboards that are suggestive of a ear-catching modula- slightly off-kilter calliope -- in fact, when Foley climbs tions and harmonies. For to her voice’s upper register on the final chorus, you instance, there’s the live have the sensation of being on a merry-go-round that track, a set of three pol- may be about to swirl out of control. Control -- as in kas in which Begley and asserting it -- is at the core of “Mister Bogeyman,” a O Raghallaigh build the wickedly absurd cabaret set to klezmer. tension through the first On the one hand, Foley may sound very far-removed two tunes – especially the from her native land, but her love of literary whimsy second, where harmony and regard for the mythical and supernatural perhaps seems to teeter on the indicate she knows her roots very well. EIRE pub

795 Adams St. • Dorchester “President’s Choice” Serving Lunch & Dinner Every day, 7 days a week Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com April 2011 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 15 Another Opening, Another Show for Boston Publicist Sheehan (Continued from page 11) community relations. Chaplin Academy. I’m children, but if I did, with everybody from Mel Even though she’s just so impressed with boy I would raise my Brooks and Anne Ban- been in the theater for her. Here she is, 17, she’s kids exactly like my croft to Kelsey Gram- 14 years, the girl who so committed . . . She’s parents raised us . . . We mer, Kathleen Turner, grew up in Dorchester grounded. She’s ador- were taught, ‘Be a good and Judith Light, among (“St. Brendan’s – it’s very able. She’s a great kid.” person. Put yourself others. important to note the If there’s one con- in other people’s shoes While some might see parish”) maintains the stant in Ann’s life, it’s before you make a judg- the job as glamorous, same sense of enthusi- her sense of family. “I ment. Be a leader not a Ann often puts in mara- asm she had the day she think that’s one of the follower. Don’t be afraid thon days that don’t end started the job. great things about be- to stand up for yourself until well after a show’s “I remember my first ing Irish.” Of her own or for someone else’ – final curtain. But that’s trip to New York for history, she said, “My those types of things. par for the course. work,” she said. “We grandparents left Ire- And remember, ‘Family “It’s not 9 to 5,” she went for an advertising land when they were first. Your best, best, Regina Delaney says finding a good teacher – “Some- says when we chat. “I meeting, ironically for [a really young. And when best friends are the ones one you can connect with” – is vital in learning the haven’t seen my wonder- show called] ‘The Irish they got here, they never that sit around your din- Irish harp. Sean Smith photo ful husband [Michael] and How They Got That really looked back . . ner table.’ “ all week. You have your Way.’ I’ll never forget . There was so much “That’s how we all daytime responsibilities sitting in the offices of poverty . . . They came grew up – ‘don’t get The Irish Harp and then there’s the Grey Advertising and here for the dream . . a big head,’” she says evening responsibili- looking out the window. . They were from Cork with a laugh. “My father Shapes a Land ties. Getting the show We were just above the and Kerry and they would say, ‘Just because up and running and Cup of Noodle Soup came over, like everyone, you’re so great doesn’t (Continued from page 11) doing what you have to (billboard display in through Ellis Island.” mean you’re better than you’re stuck with a harp gathering dust in the corner. do. But entertainment is Times Square). It was Her grandfather was anyone else in this fam- So find one to borrow.” like that. You know what exhilarating.” an elevator operator in ily.’ But behind your Guilday’s route was even more unlikely. Her child- you’re getting into. It’s a hood included a relatively short-lived brush with tra- Although she once addition to working for back they’re be bragging ditional music via the Scottish bagpipes, but her harp lot of long hours.” Still, considered an on-air John Hancock. And about you.” epiphany didn’t occur until near the end of her college she loves her job and the career in sportscasting, her grandmother was Famous folk have years, when she read a newspaper article about New diversity of promoting Ann has never had a a chambermaid at the come and gone in Ann’s York City Uilleann piper Bill Ochs. Never having heard live theater. desire to be on the stage Kenmore Hotel. Her life. But so many years of the Uilleann pipes, she arranged to visit him so she Although the cur- herself. But her love of father, Leo, who worked later, Leo and Marie could satisfy her curiosity. In the middle of the visit, rent season for BAA is the arts can be traced for Boston Edison and Sheehan would take Ochs’ roommate happened by, and at Ochs’ urging, not yet over (a revival back to ballet lessons later as a national rep great pride to hear their brought out an Irish harp to show Guilday. of “West Side Story” as a child. “My parents for the AFL-CIO, was daughter beam, “I’m so “All I wanted to do,” she recalls, “was play it.” opens at the Colonial had five kids (includ- originally from South lucky to have the family Getting someone to help her do that, however, on June 14), Ann is al- was no easy task. The only harpists Guilday knew ing Lee, Jackie, Paul Boston while her mother and friends I have.” of were those who played the concert, or orchestral, ready busy publicizing and the late Darlene) . Marie was from Mission *** harp. Finally, she found a teacher in Nellie Zimmer, the company’s stellar . . Sunday nights were Hill. Once the couple “Hair” continues at a retired concert harpist who had enough interest and 2011-2012 season, set to as a family, at home, 7 married there was a de- The Colonial Theatre experience in Irish-style harp to give Guilday a solid include “South Pacific,” o’clock, watching Disney bate over where to settle. through April 10. For foundation. Guilday wound up moving to Ireland for a “La Cage Aux Folles,” together. When they “My mother said, ‘I’m not tickets, call 800-982- year to further her harp education. “I met my husband “American Idiot,” “The could, they would take going to Southie,’ and 2787. For information on during that year in Ireland,” she adds with a smile. Addams Family,” “Les us to the theater. My my father said ‘I’m not the 2011-2012 Broadway “So I really owe the harp a lot of gratitude.” Miserables,” “Disney’s earliest memory with my going to Mission Hill,’ Across America season, It’s fair to say that these three women have been Beauty & The Beast,” Mom is at the Shubert, so they compromised on visit broadwayacrossa- part of a modern-day harp revival that has inexorably and “Billy Elliot.” gathered momentum over the past few decades, with the first touring produc- good old Dorchester.” merica.com/boston/. a number of high-profile performers helping create She has been on staff tion of ‘Annie,’ which was Her face lights up R. J. Donovan is pub- interest in, and awareness of, the instrument. They at BAA-B (originally like ‘79. I remember when she speaks of her lisher of OnStageBoston. include (but are by no means limited to): Mary O’Hara, called Broadway in Bos- walking into the Shubert parents. “I don’t have com. whose career reaches back to the 1950s; the late Derek ton) since 1997, having and being ‘Wow.’ “ Bell, a mainstay of The Chieftains for many years; previously worked at These days, her niece Clannad’s Moya Brennan; Loreena McKennitt; Máire The Boston Ballet. And Brianna is the performer BLOOD IS THICKER THAN BROOKLYN “A powerful Ní Chathasaigh; Patrick Ball; Antoinette McKenna; prior to that, she worked in the Sheehan family, and Ann Heymann. for the Red Sox. Starting achieving great success family saga Delaney, for one, can bear witness to the uptick in at Fenway Park when in step-dancing competi- the harp’s popularity through her activities with the with compelling New England Harp Orchestra, whose membership she was just 16 (“I was a tions around the world. wee one”) and continuing “She just came back from performances.” stretches from Boston to southern Maine. She notes –Jeffrey Lyons, LYONS DEN RADIO that the NEHO players demographic encompasses on through her studies at the All Irelands in Dub- 20-somethings and an 84-year-old – who started tak- Suffolk University, she lin. She placed 31 out of ing lessons at age 81. worked everywhere from 125 and she’s going back Yet Minogue sees a paradox in contemporary harp- the grounds crew to the to Worlds in April. She playing. Harpists by and large are showcasing the box office, marketing and dances with The O’Shea instrument’s versatility to a great degree, especially by integrating jazz and world music influences. But she feels the older, and most distinctive, facets of traditional Heetons to Join harp music are being overlooked, even neglected. “The younger players are emulating the fiddlers, and playing a lot of reels and jigs,” she explains. “While Fraser and Haas it’s intriguing to watch the harpists enlarge styles, they seem to be narrowing their choices. There just doesn’t seem to be as much interest in playing slip in Concert jigs, hornpipes, and especially airs. So a vast trove of harp music has been slimmed down – it’s as if one Two of America’s most popular, and personable, went from a size 22 to a size 4. Celtic duos will be on hand at First Parish Church Says Guilday, “There are some great things you can Cambridge on April 8, when local husband-and-wife do with dance tunes – the jigs and reels – but the slow team Matt and Shannon Heaton join fiddler Alasdair airs bring out the best features of the harp. That’s Fraser and cellist Natalie Haas for a concert featuring where I’ve been putting a lot of my interest.” music that draws on Irish and Scottish traditions as Inevitably, as Minogue and Guilday say, it’s almost well as contemporary influences. impossible to speak of the harp as “just” a musical Fraser, regarded as one of Scotland’s most eminent instrument. They note the harp’s symbolism has a performers and teachers, and Haas, who has helped political context as well, through its association with spark interest in the cello’s Celtic capabilities, have Irish nationalism; in fact, as Guilday points out, the recorded two albums together and appeared at festivals Society of United Irishmen used the image of a harp in and concerts world-wide, including Celtic Connections their emblem. And, of course, Cromwell made a point in Scotland, the New Hampshire Highland Games, of targeting the Irish harp for destruction in his efforts Somerville Theater, and Celtic Colors in Nova Sco- to subdue Ireland. tia. The Heatons’ combination of Irish flute, whistle, In fact, Minogue says, the fortunes of Ireland and guitar, bouzouki, and vocals has elicited praise for its the Irish harp seem inextricably linked. “To tell the strength, sweetness and sophistication, and earned history of the harp is to tell the history of Ireland. them a following that stretches from the US to Thai- land, and beyond. Ireland was at its highest peak when the harp was A film by John Gray at its height, and the greatest period of oppression in For more information on the concert, which begins Ireland coincided with a time when the harp was all at 8 p.m., see mktix.com/heptunes. but dying out. So the harp creates the sense of hope For pervasive language, some sexuality and violence. that we – as Ireland – are emerging from dark times. “You can hear great beauty in a fiddle, or a flute, Subscribe Today! or the pipes, obviously. But I think of the harp as not just an instrument of music, but an instrument of Boston Irish Reporter OPENS IN BOSTON, NEW YORK transportation, that takes you back through the ages. AND LOS ANGELES ON Because when you play, or hear, the harp, you are re- Call 617-436-1222 FRIDAY, MARCH 25TH ally hearing the story of Ireland.” BOSTON IRISH REPORTER FRI. 4/1 3.25” x 7” Page 16 April 2011 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com

The members of both bands are active in the Boston Intergenerational Dance Advocates (BIDA), a recent addition to the roster of organizations supporting contra and other traditional dance. BIDA holds a monthly contra dance at Cambridge’s Masonic Hall as well as workshops and other events. [Information on BIDA is available at www.bidadance.org] Since forming in 2008, Nor’easter — which is A column of news and updates of the Boston Celtic comprised of fiddler Cedar Stanistreet, guitarist/ Music Fest (BCMFest), which celebrates the Boston mandolinist Max Newman and pianist Julie Val- area’s rich heritage of Irish, Scottish, Cape Breton limont — has become a fixture in the contra dance music and dance with a grassroots, musician-run circuit, playing at dances throughout and outside winter music festival and other events during the year. New England, as well as at other venues including – Sean Smith BCMFest. Vallimont also supplies the piano for Murphy’s Music not just for dancing – The contra dance Shadow, which includes fiddler Brendan Carey tradition is as venerable a New England institu- Block (of Annalivia) and guitarist/mandolinist/ tion as fall foliage, snowy winters and Red Sox vocalist Eric McDonald, who also plays with Block pennant fever. The tradition, with connections to in another contra dance band, Matching Orange. Irish, Scottish, and other Celtic music, not only “There’s definitely a big Celtic component to survives but thrives, thanks to many creative and contra,” says Vallimont. “It’s not surprising if you energetic young musicians — including a number think about how the Irish, Scottish, and Cape Breton in the Greater Boston area. communities have taken root in New England down This month’s BCMFest Celtic Music Monday con- through the years. Contra dance music reflects so cert, “BIDAwhile: Contra and Celtic,” which takes many influences in New England, whether tradi- place April 11 at Harvard Square’s Club Passim, tional or contemporary.” will feature two local bands, Murphy’s Shadow and Contra dance music, and the performance of it, has Nor’easter, culled from this new generation of contra changed significantly in the past few decades, Val- dance musicians. limont says. Where once community “orchestra”-type Nor’easter (above) and Murphy’s Shadow will show the Celtic side of contra dance music when they perform at the April 11 Celtic Music Monday show in Club Passim. ensembles or local musicians might have provided the music, pioneering groups such as Wild Asparagus and Nightingale paved the way for progressive contra music bands using more complex arrangements. “There are different ways of thinking about the music now, and even the instrumentation,” she says. “When I play piano with Murphy’s Shadow, for instance, I don’t feel completely like an accom- panist; I can interact in other ways with the other instruments.” Vallimont, despite her considerable involvement in contra dance and BIDA — she serves on the as- sociation’s board — is a relative newcomer to the scene, having only started playing about six years ago. She credits BIDA for aiding her immersion into the music. “One of the things BIDA seeks to do is to offer opportunities for musicians as well as dancers to mingle, to pass along what they know to one another — transmitting this information is what helps keep the tradition alive and well.” “BIDAwhile: Contra and Celtic” begins at 8 p.m. in Club Passim, which is located at 47 Palmer Street in Harvard Square. Admission is $12, $6 for members of Passim, WGBH and WUMB. See clubpassim.org for reservations and other information.

Comhaltas Boston Music School At St. Columbkille School, Brighton

Tin Whistle • Fiddle • Flute • Harp • Accordion • Uilleann Pipes • Bodhran • Guitar/banjo/mandolin • Anglo Concertina • Melodeon •

Sign-up for classes on the School Website or print and send in the Reg. Form www.ccebostonmusicschool.org You can also call John at 978-549-3702; or email him at [email protected] ------The CCE School is a non-profit organization sponsored by the Hanafin-Cooley Branch of Comhaltas

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Free Pick-Up & Delivery Service 150 Centre Street Dorchester, MA 02124 Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com April 2011 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 17 ‘THE NEWS GREW SO BAD YOU COULD LAUGH FOR CRYING’ In Ireland Unhinged, the Author Searches for Ireland’s Heart and Soul in the Shadow of the ‘Celtic Tiger’

By Peter F. Stevens From his conversations you believe that you were BIR Staff with such literary titans – are – able to view the In 2000, the author as Seamus Heaney and economic blight through David Monagan did J.P. Donleavy, whose a different prism or something many Irish international 1955 best- viewpoint? Americans dream of, seller The Ginger Man A. Perhaps because I’d but never get around is often called the Irish relocated there seeking to doing for countless Catcher in the Rye, to a some inherent, immu- reasons personal and Donegal witch, IRA gun- table essence of Irish life, professional. He and men, avaricious specula- I could see how things his family sold their tors, and myriad other were disappearing. I home in Connecticut memorable characters found myself thinking and moved the prover- in travels throughout that I don’t know what bial “lock, stock, and the island, Monagan has Ireland’s becoming any- barrel” to Cork where peered into his adopted more. Still, in many he embarked upon a country then and now areas, all that makes self-avowed search for with insights that are Ireland and the Irish “Ireland’s soul,” the must reading for anyone such a unique people Ireland he remembered interested in Ireland. remains, always will, I and cherished from a Monagan, who also believe. year spent in Dublin in wrote the critically ac- What I did see was the early 1970s. claimed Journey into a nation that made a What he, his wife, the Heart (Penguin, lot of bad choices, and and his children found 2007), about pioneers of while the bankers and when they set foot in modern medicine, has speculators brought all Ireland was a nation contributed articles on to their knees, the fact grappling with the te- Ireland to a wide array is that the middle class nets and traditions of of publications includ- bought into it all, bought the past in the face of the ing Forbes Life, Los into sheer speculation in spreading sweep of the Angeles Times, Miami real estate. Everyone economic force dubbed Herald, San Francisco was betting on the next the “Celtic Tiger.” Mona- Chronicle, the Sunday pot of gold, on the idea gan’s incisive, witty, Times, The Guardian, that the boom would David Monagan shares his thoughts. Peter Stevens photo and compelling account and numerous Irish never end. of his first few years in newspapers and maga- A neighbor told me, erty, you’re hitting deep “what did we do wrong, Changing Country, by Ireland was Jaywalking zines. In Boston to “You can never lose on at the very spirit of the where did we go wrong?” David Monagan; Council with the Irish (2004), kick off his book tour Irish real estate.” There Irish. Still, I refuse to ac- The middle-class under- Oak Books; ISBN 978-1- which established him for Ireland Unhinged, was just this delirium cept any so-called gospel stands that they bought 57178-252-6; hardcover; as a unique and uniquely Monagan sat down with about property in Ire- truth about the so-called into this. Many in Ire- 286 pages; $28. gifted observer of his the BIR to talk about his land.” As it was all hap- Irish character. I do land believe that the adopted home. work. pening – even before the believe that confidence U.S. is the only one that What he observed over Q. What factor or fac- bust – I was wondering doesn’t come naturally to can lead everyone out of the past six years or so in tors compelled you to what’s the emotional and Ireland – for reasons his- this mess. Ireland infuses the pages write Ireland Unhinged? spiritual relevance here? torical, cultural, social, Q. Do you still feel like of his new book, Ireland A. I started the book Q. Do you believe and religious. It’s compli- a bit of an outsider and Unhinged: Encounters some three years ago that at least in part, the cated stuff. I also believe still somewhat impar- with a Wildly Chang- – before the big crash. real-estate “delirium” that in Ireland there’s tial observer, or more ing Country, and he From almost the moment had some grounding in still a sense of wonder, someone with an Irish has crafted a work that we arrived in Ireland, it traditional Irish views of versus the weariness and sensibility? is wildly entertaining, felt like a Gold Rush property – for example, outright cynicism in so A. I’m a person be- often disturbing, some- coming everywhere, and the historical fact that many other places. tween two worlds – not times gut-wrenching, in many ways traditional for centuries, even own- Q. Have you found that fully an outsider. I think sometimes fall-down values were going out ing a small plot was de- there are some in Ireland that I grow more Irish funny, and always an the window. It grew, nied so many in Ireland? who blame the U.S. for every day, but will never illuminating look at and it became obvious A. I do think that the collapse? be as Irish as someone what remains of old that the Ireland we had there’s some validity A. Actually, I’ve found born there. As a writer Irish ways, what the new moved to was changing to the theme that land that there’s very little and observer, it perhaps ways have wrought, and radically. The sense was is historically it for the blame on the U.S. In- allows a bit more acuity. Every Sunday what the road beyond the one of emotional weight. Irish. When you break stead, the Irish have Ireland Unhinged: En- Traditional session fallen Tiger might hold. Q. As a transplant, do Irish confidence in prop- this national sense of counters with a Wildly w/ Skip Toomey 10AM - 2 PM Billy Downes 4PM – 8PM Sean Gilmartin 8PM Every Tuesday A Rejuvenation at ICCNE Open mic night (Continued from page 11) w/ Jackson Wetherbee maintain balance between some strokes on bodhran, Every Wednesday contemporary one that instrumentals and songs. led a few songs, and for might come from the Some people really like a little while loaned his The Session repertoire of a Christy the tunes, and that’s what lap to one of the younger Friday, April 1st Moore or Sean Keane, or they come psyched to play, visitors in attendance, Blood Shot and Blue a singalong for everyone so we definitely want to be O’Connor fondly recalled Saturday, April 2nd to join in. But they take sure to do that.” the camaraderie at the for- The Dave Foley Band the inclusive aspect of For Kelleher, the every- mer Blackthorne session Thursday, April 7th the session to heart, and one-gets-a-turn element and expressed satisfac- Justin Beech Basse in particular makes of the ICC session, and tion that it has endured Friday, April 8th a point of singling out a the diversity of the mate- through the ICC. Jessie and the Rippers newcomer, or a regular on rial that’s often presented, “It’s different than what Saturday, April 9th the periphery of the crowd, ring true to him. “My par- some may be used to, Inchicore to take his or her turn in ents are from Cork, and what with all the singing, Thursday, April 14th the spotlight, and hush- they always had nights and the different kinds of Ken Snow ing whatever background like this where you’d get songs,” he said. “But when Friday, April 15th chatter there might be so a whole bunch of people the Blackthorne session everyone can hear. together to talk, sing, play was going, we agreed we Dublin Free Press And what might they music, and most of all to didn’t want it to be a strict Saturday, April 16th hear? Anything and ev- simply be in one place. Irish session of tune after 3rd Left erything. “It’s mostly Everyone had a ‘party tune after tune. You want Thursday, April 21st Irish,” says Basse, “but we piece’ they’d contribute, to keep the connection Sean McLaughlin branch out in a big way. which meant that every- between everyone that’s Friday, April 22nd People will do bluegrass, one really shared in the there, to make everyone Justin Beech and The Shoe country, even gospel and experience. That’s how I feel welcome. I definitely Saturday, April 23rd Cajun. The biggest thing grew up, and this is just see that same idea at work Erin OG is that people should feel like I remember it.” here.” Thursday, April 28th comfortable, and do what- Perhaps the most mean- As he finished speak- Jimmy Richards ever suits them. We’re all ingful endorsement of the ing, a young man began Friday, April 29th out to have a good time ICC session comes from Children of all sizes are seen, and sometimes heard, belting out “Sweet Home at the ICC session. Sean Smith photo Shey’s Rebellion here, and enjoy ourselves none other than former Alabama,” accompanied Saturday, April 30 together.” Blackthorne owner John by clapping hands, singing Adds Kelleher, “We do O’Connor, who regularly and sits in with Basse and Saturday night, in the voices, and a few whoops Highway Ghosts make a conscious effort to makes his way to Canton Kelleher. On one recent course of which he took and cheers. Page 18 April 2011 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com

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Geraghty ASSOCIATES PROPERTY MANAGERS Studio and 1-Bedroom Apartments Available in the desirable Cedar Grove section of Dorchester. Studios reasonably priced at $750; 1-bedroom units at $925; heat and hot water included. Short walk to the Red Line. Free off-street Parking. Washing Machines and Dryers in building. Call Michael at 617-364-4000 Geraghty Associates, Inc. GERARD’S ADAMS CORNER Property Managers 772 - 776 Adams Street Dorchester, MA 02124 P.O. Box 52, Readville, MA 02137-0052 617-282-6370 Tel: 617-364-4000 Fax: 617-364-3157 Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com April 2011 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 19 Traveling People As Springtime Beckons, Ireland Fixes on Tourist Lures

By Judy Enright Mayo. The scenery along Special to the BIR those routes is amazing and there’s a great little Driving in Ireland might sheep and wool museum euphemistically be called in Leenane at the head of a challenge for those of us the harbor where it’s fun accustomed to driving on to stop, enjoy the exhibits the right. and homemade food – the But the Irish, good folks quiche is great. Another that they are, have ac- very nice restaurant in cepted that not everyone Leenane that I’ve visited driving the roads speaks and enjoyed many times English, so they have is The Blackberry Café designed a series of signs and Restaurant right on that leave little doubt the main route, the N59, about their messages. just as you enter Leenane. A zigzag line indicates There’s ample parking that a road ahead is no across the street. doubt just as much of a zig- For more information zag as the sign and maybe about this and other tours more so and there are offered by DuVine, visit several signs that depict their website at duvine. a car or person falling into com or call 888-396-5383. the water from a ledge. A An Irish friend saw this sign in a harbor town in The company also offers friend saw the sign with Co. Kerry and said, “Don’t try this at home.” tailor-made trips such as the car and asked, “Why group or family travel, would anyone want to do solo travel, yoga bike that?” adventures, and a chef- Some signs just make on-wheels series where a you laugh out loud, such chef joins your luxury bike as the sign my sister tour. Guides, bikes, and photographed in Dublin van support are provided at a Surgery that said, with all these DuVine underneath the surgery tours. designation, “Bicycles will Travel be removed.” Ireland is abloom after Tourism Ireland a long, cold, snowy win- We were delighted to ter. Doors and windows read a story recently in have been flung open to The Irish Times saying welcome the fresh air that Tourism Ireland, of spring and Ireland is the body responsible for ready and waiting for attracting visitors to Ire- visitors. land, is “going back to Enjoy your trip when- basics.” The article said ever and wherever you go Tourism Ireland would and don’t forget to check focus its efforts on Brit- the internet for the latest ain, the US, France, and travel specials, especially Germany, which account air and ground deals with for 75 percent of Ireland’s Aer Lingus and other tourism. international carriers. Niall Gibbons, the agen- Check also with your fa- cy’s chief executive, said vorite travel agent. tourism peaked in 2007 And, when you’re in – at 9 million overseas visi- This is a Co. Galway road you probably wouldn’t An Irish sign in Liscannor, Co. Clare, inspired a Ireland, be sure to stop by tors after growing from 7 want to drive down - well, not at a high rate of visiting American to ask, “Why would anyone do the Failte Ireland tourist million at the start of the speed anyway. that?” (Judy Enright photos) board offices (marked with decade. By 2009, when the a big green shamrock) for last official figures were and Twitter messages providing residents and spin along the Greenway- stone, Clifden, and Ire- details about festivals and recorded, visitor numbers to woo more of this age tourists with a 42-km Cycleway can rent bicycles land’s only fjord, Killary other activities, to secure had dropped to 7.6-mil- group and that approach almost entirely off-road in Newport and Westport. Harbour, which is a natu- accommodation and learn lion. The Times said, has made an impact. The cycling and walking path. If you have never visited ral boundary between about the area in which “While not confirmed, last agency now has 230,000 The Greenway follows this area of Ireland, it is Counties Galway and you’re traveling. year it is estimated that friends on Facebook, and the abandoned railway very highly recommended the figure had fallen to the number is growing by line that once ran from – especially Achill Island. 6.6 million.” about 3,000 a day. Westport to the Achill I spend most of my time in Ireland’s beauty hasn’t Focus group research Sound terminal, just be- this area and it is delight- changed over the years but says Ireland is fun, friend- fore the Michael Davitt ful as well as beautiful, the economy has changed ly, relaxed, beautiful, and Bridge to the island and has wonderful food, mu- a lot – both here and there photogenic. How true. It across the road from sic, shopping, and much, – and travelers are looking is a most beautiful island the Óstán Oileán Acla/ much more. to get the best value for and we were happy to see Achill Island Hotel. The Connemara Large Format Printing money. And, airlines like that the tourist numbers old railway was in place We recently received Billboards • Banners Aer Lingus (my personal seem to be on the rise. from 1894 to 1937 and its a booklet from DuVine favorite) have cut flights Mayo’s Greenway- most famous feature is the Adventures that included 1022 Morrissey Boulevard, Dorchester in and out of Ireland – Cycleway viaduct over the Newport a “moderately difficult” especially to Shannon, Last spring, we attend- River at the bottom of the bike ride through mag- 617-282-2100 which is an airport I really ed the official opening of main street in Newport, nificent Connemara. Trips carrolladvertising.com like because it’s so small the Greenway-Cycleway near The Granuaille pub are scheduled in May, and accommodating. The that currently runs from and Newport Post Office throughout the summer Times story says that the Newport to Mulranny, and across from the entry- months, September, and number of seats in and so we were delighted to way to Newport House, a October. out of Ireland has fallen hear that the trail will well-known manor house The trip starts and ends to 425,000 from 500,000 be opened along its full hotel. in Galway and sites vis- a week in 2008. length from Westport to Any energetic souls ited along the way include Gibbons said that value Achill later this month interested in taking a Kylemore Abbey, Round- for money became the industry’s achilles heel, particularly at the height of the boom when esca- Phillips Candy House lating domestic demand meant tourism operators fine chocolates since 1925 forgot about overseas visi- tors. Some elements, such as exchange rates, are, of course, beyond anyone’s control, but others are not. And, The Times story said, “It looks like the industry is addressing at least some of the issues “Serving Greater Boston since 1971” and that Ireland now has the cheapest hotels in 1060 N. MaiN St., RaNdolph, Ma 02368 Europe – and restaurants phone: 781-963-3660 are following fast. Many British visitors fax: 781-986-8004 are between 25-35, the www.miltonmonuments.com story said, so Tourism Ire- email: [email protected] land has utilized Facebook Page 20 April 2011 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com Thirty-Two Counties

Antrim: Taxi driver Frank an oven made from clay will also Currycahill Hall in Ballinalee. Ritchie from Newtownabbey re- be constructed. A tea dance in the Park House cently picked up two passengers Derry: Hannah Eastwood Hotel in Edgeworthstown will from Carnmoney to take them from Coleraine has been pre- close the festival. to the Royal Victoria Hospital, sented with the UK Young Louth: A motorbike with an but by the time he reached his Scientist of the Year award. unusual side car has been put destination he had an extra A former student of Loreto up for sale by its owner, Peadar passenger. Billy and Angela College, the eighteen-year-old Byrne from Dundalk, since he no Fegan’s son Isaac had decided won the award for her research longer has time to keep a unique to make an early appearance. into removing chromium from enterprise going. Peadar, a Frank pulled his taxi on to the drinking water. Now studying coachbuilder with his father, side of the Westlink and helped veterinary science at Bristol has built a hearse attached to Billy deliver the little boy, who University, Hannah was also a Yamaha B Max 1200, and weighed in at a respectable overall runner-up in the BT the vehicle has been used by a nine pounds three ounces. The Young Scientist competition number of bikers for their final Fegans joked that they initially for research into green rust. journeys. According to Peadar, thought to call their son Francis This was carried out under people who have little interest in Westlink. the direction of her teacher at motorbikes have also expressed Armagh: The subject of a Loreto College, Brian McKenna. an interest in having their final designated rank for Lurgan’s Hannah is the first female win- journey in the fibreglass vehicle. taxi-drivers has been discussed ner of the award. Mayo: The holiday weekend for the past 25 years, according Donegal: The first-ever saw a three-day walking festival to one taxi driver, but now it reunion was held recently in taking place and finishing at looks as though there might be Lynch’s Tavern in Castlefin for the foot of Croagh Patrick. The a decision. Taxi drivers have former employees of the old Por- Croagh Patrick Heritage Trail, been fined for parking in the ters factory, where shirts and initiated by the Tóchar Valley town in places designated for pajamas were manufactured. Rural Community Network, buses, particularly at the old More than seventy cutters and was led by experienced guides. post office on Market Street, smoothers, machinists and de- The three stages are from Balla but a meeting between Lurgan livery drivers gathered for the to Ballintubber, from Ballintub- Forward and the Chamber of occasion, which was organized ber to Aughagower, and from Commerce has now taken place by Martina McClay and John Aughagower to Murrisk, at and Carnegie Lane has been O’Dowd; John drove a lorry for the foot of the mountain. The chosen as a location for up to the company for fourteen years. festival was in its third year and twelve taxi places. The factory closed its doors participants can choose to do Carlow: A television crew twenty-four years ago and many one, two, or three days’ walking. from NBC spent the national of the former employees had lost Monaghan: Moanghan feast day at Duckett’s Grove in touch with each other over the Mushrooms, which was founded an attempt to record any ghostly years. Proceeds from the night thirty years ago in Tyholland by sounds or appearances. “Desti- were donated to the St Vincent the event through her had a kidney transplant at the Ronnie Wilson, is planning to nation Truth” was filmed at the de Paul Society. local No Name Club in Gort, to age of fifteen but within twelve expand the company’s business castle, the home of the Duckett Down: George Bryans, Den- which she has belonged for the months he was playing in an in Europe and North America, family until 1916, by Josh Gates nis Rice and Tony Megraw, who past two years. Mike O’Shea was under-sixteen football final and and is hoping to recruit up to and a team of paranormal in- are all members of Banbridge a regular cyclist who had just has also been selected for the twenty graduates to achieve vestigators, with the team and Kayak and Canoe Club, have returned from a charity cycle Laois minor football panel. To this. The company, which crew totalling more than 120. become the first people to travel on the day of his death. finance his trip to Stockholm already employs some 2,300 They were hoping to record the the entire length of the Newry Kerry: Members of Killarney a fundraising event was held people, is looking for graduates sound of the banshee for their and Portadown Canal since Rugby Club are to hold a teen- recently in Pedigree Corner, in all branches of engineering American audience, and the 1937. The leading kayaker had age disco to raise funds for those organised by St. Joseph’s GAA, as well as a range of science visit was welcomed by Eileen to force a way through reeds stricken by the earthquake and and Robbie is to do a sponsored disciplines, business, finance, O’Rourke of Carlow Tourism. and also had to hack at fallen tsunami in Japan and to help climb of Croagh Patrick in April and marketing. Those taken on Cavan: Large numbers of lo- branches to open up a passage. support a young Japanese man to raise the rest of the money by the company will undergo cal business people in Belturbet The trio were also hindered by who lived in the town for some he needs. an industry leading training called on Tommy McMahon last a group of swans which stead- years. Satoshi Otsuka attended Leitrim: There was plenty program in conjunction with the month as his furniture business fastly swam slowly in front of St. Brendan’s College while his of entertainment on offer last Irish Management Institute. closed its doors. The shop first them before eventually tak- father worked in Alps Electrical, month at a variety concert to Offaly: Two men have been opened in 1932 when Tommy’s ing flight. The expedition was and stayed in the town for two raise funds for Eslin Community chosen to share the title of 2010 parents, Jimmy and Julia, supported by Councillor John years to complete his education Centre. During the evening Offaly Person of the Year by the opened one half of the present Hanna who hopes that it will after his family returned to a one-act play, “A Cure for Offaly Association in Dublin, premises as a grocery store. encourage others to use the Japan. A keen member of the Nerves”, was performed by Eslin and both are involved in the They gradually expanded their canal and the towpath. rugby club, he stayed with the Drama Group. Meanwhile the charity Goal. Darren Hanniffy merchandise over the years un- Dublin: Wayne Curtis from Purcell family in Coolcorcoran. Millennium Choir was giving is from Birr and was recently til the early 1990s when Tommy Rathcoole was quite relaxed Although his home was de- a series of concerts featuring in charge of Goal’s work in the took over. For the past ten when he set off with his fiancée, stroyed, Satoshi has survived St. Manchan’s choir, Mohill aftermath of the Haiti earth- years his daughter Tanya has Niamh Fitzgerald, for Holles the events in Japan and his and St Mary’s Girls’ choir from quake; he has also worked in been working alongside him. Street maternity hospital, as friends are now keen to help Carrick-on-Shannon. Music was Honduras and Uganda. Ronan Some of the others employed Niamh had experienced just his country. provided by Fintan Farrelly on Scully from Clara is preparing in McMahon’s included Willie a few cramps. However things Kildare: The Queally Group, organ, violinist Niamh Crow- for a North Pole marathon run to Millar, Willie Howe, Richard turned out a bit differently when one of the biggest employers in ley, and Sarah Moran on flute. raise money for Goal. He is now Gibson and Vincent McDonald. she told him the baby was on the Naas, is working in collabora- The concerts took place in St. based in Galway. The men will Clare: Martin O’Gorman, a way and, pulling into a side road tion with Naas Tidy Towns Patrick’s Church in Mohill and be presented with their awards, member of Kilrush RNLI, had near Bewley’s Hotel, Wayne Committee to plant a total of 160 St. Mary’s Church in Carrick- sponsored by Noel Tynan of just completed a casualty care delivered his baby daughter, trees in the town. The project on-Shannon. Coolderry, at the Offaly Associa- course a few days earlier when Ruby, before asking a passing is ensuring the completion of Limerick: For the second tion’s annual dinner this month. he was called upon to put his motorist to call the emergency the project by the Tidy Towns time the metal Christmas tree Roscommon: The sixth new skills into practice. He was services. Mother and child, with Committee to replant three located in the River Shannon in annual John Paul Corcoran enjoying a break in a cafe in Kil- the electronics engineer turned roundabouts. The trees are to Limerick has come away from its memorial walk, organized by kee when his wife phoned him midwife Wayne, eventually be planted on the perimeter of moorings. Last year the tree was his wife Ann, took place on St to say that a man had collapsed made it to the hospital where the Queally plant on the Dublin washed down as far as the Shan- Patrick’s Day, starting from in the street in Kilkee. She col- Ruby was pronounced to be in road side of the town, as well as non Bridge before being rescued Kenny’s Rockfield Inn in Oran lected him in the car and drove good health. on the roundabouts and in two and reinstated, and this year a and covering a route of ten kilo- him to the place where the man Fermanagh: When florist local schools. A tree-planting faulty pump saw it keeling over metres. This year’s designated had collapsed and he began full Rachel Gibson from Irvinestown ceremony also included a com- into the river once again. Plans charity is Cancer Care West; CPR. He was assisted by a nurse was invited to address a floristry mendation for local woman were quickly put in place to re- last year the walk raised more who had also stopped, and the class and give a demonstra- Kay Hartigan, who has been instate the 100-foot-high tree in than 11,000 euro for the Sacred Kilkee Marine Rescue Service tion at Greenmount College in appointed as chairwoman of the time for St Patrick’s Day, when Heart Hospital Comfort Fund. were soon at the scene. Their Antrim, she decided to create campaign. it was to display green lights to Immediately after the walk a public relations officer, Manual a bridal bouquet. This turned Kilkenny: An Age-Friend- mark the feast day. There are raffle and auction took place in DiLucia, confirmed that Mar- out to be fortuitous as the most ly strategy was launched in also plans to adorn it with red Kenny’s, while refreshments tin’s actions had undoubtedly famous prospective bride of Kilkenny at the end of March, lights when Munster are playing were served, with music by helped to save the man’s life. the moment turned up at the making it the second Irish coun- at Thomond Park. Country Sundown. Cork: A collaboration be- college. Rachel, who works at ty after Louth to be an official Longford: This year’s Beal- Sligo: It has been confirmed tween the City Council and Clare Flowers in Irvinestown, Age-Friendly county. Regional taine Festival, to be held during that cyclist Seán Kelly will once Safefood will see the develop- was more than surprised when programme manager Debra the month of May to celebrate again be in Sligo for the An ment of a community garden Prince William and Kate Mid- O’Neill invited the veteran ac- creativity in the older genera- Post Tour of Sligo 2011, which on waste ground at Harbour dleton arrived at the class and tress Maureen O’Hara to launch tion, has a line-up to sort all takes place in May. Last year View Road in Knocknaheeny. the bride-to-be picked up the the project, which has as one of interests. The event involves more than 1,300 cyclists took The idea behind the garden is to bouquet of orchids for closer its aims to encourage people to a number of organizations in- part, including Seán Kelly, teach people how to grow their examination. retire to Kilkenny. The county cluding St. Joseph’s Day Care and this year a new route has own vegetables and to give them Galway: Aoife O’Shea from is also due to celebrate ageing Centre and Longford Older been added. In addition to the a sense of ownership of the land Kinvara recently organized a later this year when Kilkenny Persons’ Network, and offers ten-kilometre Hazelwood Spin, in a bid to eradicate anti-social fashion show in Gort to raise city hosts the first global festival creative writing classes in the sixty-kilometre Lough Gill behavior. According to Elaine funds for the heart charity Croí. for older people, to be known as Longford Library and a concert Circuit and the one hundred O’Mahony of Safefood, it is the The sixteen-year-old, a student Greystock. in Thomond Lodge Retirement and sixty-kilometre Ox Moun- community that will decide at Seamount College, has a Laois: Sixteen-year-old Rob- Home, Ballymahon. An arts and tain Challenge, there will be an how the space is used so that special reason for supporting bie Lyons from The Swan is crafts exhibition is to be held in Innisfree tour of one hundred it will become a social area for the charity, since her father due to take part in the World St. Joseph’s, while two inter- kilometres. The Lough Gill and everyone. Drainage pathways Mike died from an undetected Transplant Games in Stockholm generational events will take Ox Mountain circuits have been and a reed bed will contribute heart condition at the age of in June, competing in the 100m, place. There will be a bog walk reversed this year for safety to the recycling of water, while forty-nine last year. She ran 400m and indoor hockey. Robbie in Ballinamuch and an event in (Continued on page 35) Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com April 2011 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 21 News Direct From Ireland

Sun shines on Ireland reduced with immediate effect Secretary of State Hillary Clin- for St. Patrick’s Day to 12. Ministers of State had 12 ton, the North’s Deputy First The vast majority of the Ireland Today: staff and this is reduced to eight. Minister, Martin McGuinness, population put their economic Taoiseach has his own emi- has condemned the decision by concerns to one side to celebrate gration statistics – Professor British Prime Minister David St. Patrick’s Day and they were Taoiseach Welcomed James Wickham, director of the Cameron to reverse the “open helped by the weather. As far Employment Research Centre at door” policy of his predecessor. as I am aware the rain stayed Home to Mayo TCD, was widely quoted recently McGuinness reported on the away until the day’s parades when he claimed that, during the surprise of Americans when he were over and the sun shone in With so much happening on the political front last week I election campaign, politicians told them neither he nor First many parts of the country. neglected to include a few developments that were worthy of and the media wildly exagger- Minister Peter Robinson had Parades were held in cities a mention. Up to 3,000 Fine Gael supporters were in the TF ated emigration rates. Speak- met the prime minister for the and towns throughout the coun- Royal Theatre in Castlebar last Saturday night to welcome ing at a conference, he argued past eight months. All dealings try as well as in many villages. Enda Kenny home as Taoiseach for the first time. It was a that the 1,000 per week figure, now have to go through Secre- Someone came up with the highly emotional occasion for all involved. forecast by the ESRI in Janu- tary of State Owen Paterson. figure of 120 parades in total. The Taoiseach was also in the news when a New York Times ary, included a large proportion He suggested that this led the For size and spectacle the one reporter, or perhaps an enthusiastic proofreader, became of non-Irish people returning US President’s team to question in Dublin outshone them all. An confused between Edna and Enda. The new Taoiseach’s name home. Prof. Wickham warned the commitment of the British estimated 500,000 spectators was spelled correctly but he was referred to more than once that the “panic” being generated Government to maintaining lined the streets of the capital as Ms Kenny. The online article was corrected fairly quickly. in relation to emigration could relations with the North. for the two hours or so that it Fine Gael press officer Feargal Purcell has been named become “a self-fulfilling proph- Dublin is where the locals took the parade to pass. This Government press secretary, but he will not take up the post ecy.” On Tuesday Taoiseach are queuing up to welcome is also the parade that attracts immediately. Eoghan Ó Neachtain, who carried out the role Enda Kenny, speaking in the visitors – A new scheme has most of the overseas visitors, for the previous Government, has been asked to remain in his Dáil on the Government Pro- been launched under which visi- whether it is the marching band post to allow a smooth transition. gramme for National Recovery, tors to Dublin can, on request, from Dearborn, Michigan, or the said, “We are again facing the have a personal guide to tell Hibernophile spectator from prospect of forced emigration – them about the city, over a cup Denmark or Spain. Unemployment rate jumps presidential campaign an estimated 2,000 people are of tea or pint of Guinness. The Limerick claimed to have to 14.6 percent – The Central Senator David Norris on set to leave every week over plan had been to have 1,000 the second largest parade this Statistics Office has published Monday formally launched his the next two years”. No one has volunteers with cityofathou- year but I suspect there wasn’t the results of the Quarterly campaign to become the next explained how the forecast rate sandwelcomes.com when the a great deal to choose between National Household Survey for President of Ireland. His first of emigration has doubled in the scheme commences on Blooms- the parades in Cork, Limerick, the fourth quarter of 2010. This hurdle is to receive a nomina- space of two months. day, June 16, but by the launch and Galway. Along with three showed an annual increase of tion. To appear on the ballot Gormley to step down as date on Monday 1,026 had of our grandchildren we were 31,600 in the number of people paper in the autumn he must leader of the Green Party signed up. Visitors who request among the spectators in Galway unemployed and a reduction of be nominated by at least 20 –John Gormley has sent an e- a guide can rest assured that for what I thought was one of the 33,000 in the labor force. The members of the Oireachtas or mail to Green Party members the volunteer allocated to them better parades of recent years. number of people in employment by at least four county or city informing them that he plans to will have been vetted by gardaí. The parades of today are much declined by 3.4 percent (-64,500) councils. resign as their leader. The as- They can also can relax on the different from those that we to 1,823,200 over the course of Senator Norris is one of the sumption is that he will remain payment front – the service is took our own children to see. No the year. This compares to an six university senators and in his position until May to al- free and the tea, coffee or Guin- longer do we have the big flat- annual decrease of 3.7 percent has represented the University low an election to be organized. ness will be supplied by one of bed trucks carrying industrial in the previous quarter and a of Dublin constituency as an All 1,000 or so members of the the scheme’s sponsors. Some of exhibits. We still, however, have decrease of 8.1 percent in the Independent since he was first party are entitled to vote and it those who have volunteered to the various community groups year to the fourth quarter of elected in 1987. is expected that the new leader date are personalities in their from hurling clubs represented 2009. As a result of the findings Government limits will be elected by postal ballot. own right and the organizers by young members proudly car- the seasonally adjusted unem- availability of State cars Each news bulletin that covered will try to assign guides who rying their first hurleys, to ac- ployment rate increased from As expected, Tuesday’s Cabi- this story reminded us that the have something in common with tive retirement groups. Other 13.7 percent to 14.7 percent over net meeting approved changes Green Party had six TDs going their visitor(s). sporting clubs, cultural groups the quarter. Extrapolating this in the provision of State cars to into the election and now they Irish priest to be honoured and voluntary organisations to the Live Register figures for Government ministers. Only the have none. by Partnership for Global also marched. Stilt walkers, the end of February, the official President, Taoiseach, Tánaiste Publican ordered to re- Justice – Father Seán Mc- jugglers, gymnasts, belly danc- unemployment rate was now and Minister for Justice will move banner barring queen Donagh, a Columban father who ers and a group travelling on 14.6 percent. be provided with a car and two – Publican John Stokes of the spent many years working with Segways also took part. Further divisions reported garda drivers. All the other Players Lounge in Fairview, tribal people in the Philippines, The bands this year were all in Labour Party gardaí will return to normal Dublin has removed a contro- is to be honored by the Partner- from the locality except for the It was reported in Monday’s duties. Ministers will, in future, versial 40-foot banner barring ship for Global Justice at its group of musicians and dancers Irish Times that the expectation provide their own cars for which Queen Elizabeth from his annual meeting in New York on from Lorient in Brittany; Lori- among Labour TDs had been they will receive a mileage allow- premises on her visit to Dublin May 1. McDonagh is a lecturer ent and Galway are twinned and that Róisín Shortall was to get ance. They will also be able to in May. Mr Stokes, who says and prolific writer in the field of this group is always one of the the ministerial post that went to claim expenses for the provision he will find a legal way of pro- Eco-Theology. Working in the highlights of the parade. Ruairi Quinn. The newspaper’s of two civilian drivers. testing against the visit, was Philippines in the 1970s and Immigrant groups have be- source claims that Ms Shortall The tradition of providing cars warned that he would be putting ‘80s he campaigned on behalf of come a feature of the parade al- was in line for a Cabinet post un- and drivers to former presidents in jeopardy the application for the indigenous T’boli people on though the nations that become til Mr Quinn “threw a wobbly”. and Taoisigh will also end. Cars six late licenses due before the the island of Mindanao as their involved seem to vary each year. Mr Quinn, who will be 65 next will only be made available to court soon. Stokes’s action was of forest habitat was destroyed by This year we had entries from month, is a former leader of the them on State occasions. particular interest to the media logging. Partnership for Global the Filipino community, India, party and has Cabinet experi- It was also decided yesterday in Scotland as he is the father of Justice is a network of religious Russia, Bangladesh, Cameroon ence, but it was not explained to cut the number of person- Celtic footballer Anthony Stokes congregations, other groups and and South Africa. There was also why Éamon Gilmore should nel normally provided to each McGuinness condemns individuals committed to devel- a small Japanese contingent feel obliged to change his plans minister. A minister had been lack of meeting with Brit- oping a global consciousness asking that we remember their at the last minute to accommo- entitled to 16 support staff, to ish PM – Following his visit through educational programs, country in its current difficulty. date him. man his or her private office to the US where he met both advocacy and participation with – LIAM FERRIE Senator Norris launches and constituency office. This is President Barack Obama and the United Nations.

Thirty-Two Counties From Tipperary to Wicklow

(Continued from page 34) Warrior Prince Trophy and the May, beginning with Mass in SS Wicklow: Gary Redmond, returned unopposed to the posi- reasons and for variety. title of Ulster’s Strongest Man Peter and Paul’s Church after who was previously student tion of president. Late last year, Tipperary: A meeting of 2011. The five top men in this which a reception will be held union president in University during his first term in office, the North Tipperary County event will qualify for this year’s in the school. In addition to re- College Dublin, was elected Mr Redmond was instrumental Council heard the concerns of Ireland’s Strongest Man contest freshments, past pupils, former as president of the Union of in organizing a major student Councillor Ger Darcy about from which one will qualify for staff and friends will be able to Students of Ireland in April of protest against the introduction the state of the seventeenth the British competition, which enjoy a walk through the old last year. This year, at the USI of student fees proposed by the century Ardcroney Castle, situ- is televised. house, the schoolyard and the annual congress in Dunboyne, then government. ated beside the graveyard, from Waterford: Rosemary No- new school. A commemorative Co. Meath, the Arklow man was which large stones have started lan, the daughter of Waterford book is also to be produced to to fall. His concern was echoed man Paul Nolan, will have her mark the occasion. by that of Councillor Jim Casey, hands full for a good number Wexford: The contribution who spoke of a similar problem of years after her Australian to Enniscorthy of the Sisters of with the fifteenth century Bally- partner recently gave birth to Mercy, who this year left the reland s eather finboy Castle near Borrisokane, quintuplets. Rosemary, a past town after some one hundred I ’ W from which a large piece fell pupil of St. Angela’s and Yeats and sixty years, is to be marked Reported Sunday, March 27, 2011 recently. This castle, while on College and a twin herself, met by the unveiling of a commemo- private land, overlooks a public her partner Melissa when she rative plaque. The plaque is to For March it was a quite glorious week with the road. Area engineer Kieran Cal- moved to Australia three years be erected at the former home of sun shining from cloudless skies and temperatures lanan said the council would ago and they already have a the order in The Shannon by the in the mid to high teens. It reached 17C in many first have to establish ownership daughter, Lily. Now the family Town Council, whose members parts and 18C in Kerry. Thick fog delayed the appearance before any remedial works could has been joined in their Bris- gave their unanimous support of the sun on a number of days and the fog lingered longer be carried out. bane home by Noah, Charlie, to the proposal. Earlier in the along northern coasts. By the weekend the temperatures had Tyrone: Two days at the end Eireann, Evie, and Abby and year a special Mass was cel- dropped a few degrees although the sun continued to shine. of April will see the holding of they will be helped to care for ebrated in St. Senan’s Church the Cookstown 100 road race, them by a group of some sixty at which one of the speakers We are promised a much different week. While Monday which will be accompanied volunteers. was the present principal of St. will be fine we should see rain later on Tuesday and it will by an exhibition, “King of the Westmeath: St. Aloysius Col- Senan’s Primary School, Henry become unsettled from Wednesday on, with heavy and per- Roads”, celebrating the life of lege on the west side of Athlone Goff. He recalled that his grand- sistent rain accompanied by strong winds. road racer Joey Dunlop. This first opened its doors in 1951 father, his father, himself, and will be followed a few days and is this year celebrating its his nine brothers and sisters Latest Temperatures: later by the Northern Ireland golden anniversary. A day of had all been educated by the Day 13C (55F) Night 4C (39F) competition for the Culcullen events is planned for early in Mercy Sisters. Page 22 April 2011 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com The Irish Language by Philip Mac AnGhabhann Celtic Last month I promised that we would review the formation of adjectives from verbs – words taken Cross from verbs that act as “descriptors”. This is similar to English except that in English many such words end in –en Words or –ed if they already end in -n. The Irish “The ice cream is freezing” “The ice cream is frozen.” crosswords are “The frozen ice cream tastes good!” “The ice cream was softened.” a service of an

Remember that the majority of adjectives in Irish Ireland-based follow the noun they modify, describe or limit while in English the reverse is true. website which Uachtar sioctha literally “ice cream frozen” “Frozen ice cream” provides Irish English verbal adjectives are the same form that follows the “helping verb” have. Family Coats of “I have written the letter” “The written letter.” The Irish form most of their verbal adjectives Arms by email. by suffixing, “adding on the back”, four different You are invited endings, -tha or –the and –ta or –te depending on the “quality” of the preceding vowel (“broad” a, ao, to visit o, u; “slender” e, i) and whether the verb has one or two syllables. Again, this is an important distinction and you www. must remember “broad” and “slender”. We haven’t discussed the concept of “syllable” until bigwood.com/ now. A syllable is always centered around a vowel. Sometimes it can be just a vowel, at other times a heraldry vowel either preceded or followed by a consonant, or sometimes a vowel enclosed by consonants. Examples of these in Irish include: ©-bigwood.com Vowel alone: IRELAND IN CROSSWORDS A as in A’ Nóra. ACROSS 16. Last word in mean fashion. (4) Vowel preceded by a consonant: Ca? “What?” 1. Or find chiller. (anag.) Stepchildren of Aoife whom 17. Greasy sun out over U.C. (8) Vowel followed by a consonant: ag “at” she turned into Swans on Lough Derravaragh. (8,2,3) 18. E.g. rang up Sligo village underneath Ben Bulben Vowel enclosed by consonants: cos “foot” 8. Protection found in popular Mourne location. (6) on the Bundoran road opposite Inishmurray Island. (6) 9. Pout face up until refreshment appears. (3,2,3) 19. “This goat-footed bard, this half-human visitor Irish grammarians believe that the longest basic 10. Fry air? No, but reduce its pressure. (6) to our age from the hag-ridden magic and enchanted words have only two syllables. They ignore the “in- 12. Get up on hind legs about per can order. (6) woods of ——— antiquity.” Baron Keynes - (describing trusive vowel” /uh/ as simply a repetition of the pre- 13. Impulses scrambled the last of the Carrickfergus Lloyd George) (6) ceding vowel and don’t bother to write it. Recall that letters. (5) 21. Soothe in the meandering vales. (5) you must “intrude” the sound /uh/ between syllables 14. Then avoid by cute diversion around engineer- ending in -l, -r, -n and when following syllables begin ing work carrying the Dublin - Belfast rail line over CROSSWORD SOLUTION ON PAGE 23 with b-, ch-, f-, g-, and m-. Examples are, Albain Drogheda. (3,5,7) /AHL-uh-buhn/ “Scotland”, dorcha /DOR-uh-kuh/ 19. Tree falls over after a century on Mediterranean “dark”, dearfa /JER-uh-fuh/ “positive”, gorm / island. (5) GOHR-uhm// “blue”, and ainm /AHN-uhm/ “name.” 20. Threw in at the Gaelic game? (6) Irish Sayings Longer words are viewed as “compound” words – 21. Make a quick grab for ants all over the small words made up of a “base word” plus prefixes and/or church. (6) “Youth does not mind where it sets its foot.” suffixes. An example is the plural of “letter” leitir / 22. Stretch little Leonard starts, then finishes after “Both your friend and your enemy think you will LEE-chur/ as leitreacha /LEECH-rah-kuh/. note. (8) never die.” Did you notice that Irish removes a vowel when 23. Salty pool covered up back in Portnoo gallery. (6) “The well fed does not understand the lean.” making “letter” to “letters.” Compare again leitir : 24. Sweet stew clan. (anag.) Limerick market town “He who comes with a story to you brings two away leitreacha. This is a fairly common occurrence in with a Knights Templars castle built in 1184. (9,4) from you” Irish as you will see. This is similar to the English “Quiet people are well able to look after themselves.” practice of not pronouncing the -t- in “soften”, espe- DOWN “A friends eye is a good mirror.” cially when we add the suffix –ed /SOF-end/. 2. Oh, lure me in disorder for Bill first proposed and “It is the good horse that draws its own cart.” Irish verbs then have either one or two syllables. lost by Gladstone in 1885 and passed in 1912. (4,4) “A lock is better than suspicion.” We will study the rules for making verbal adjec- 3. “Hail fellow, well met. All —— and wet: Find out, if “Two thirds of the work is the semblance.” tives for one syllable verbs first. To make verbal you can, Who’s master, who’s man.” Swift. (5) 4. Storeys “He who gets a name for early rising can stay in bed adjectives from regular one-syllable verbs you have one knocks to the ground. (6) until midday.” to make three decisions. 5. Recite with a singing voice to nine others in Rosses “If you do not sow in the spring you will not reap in If the verb ends in –b, -bh, -c, -g, -mh, -p, or –t, Point one time. (6) the autumn.” simply add –tha or –the, depending on the “quality” 6. Hour train call. (anag.) Kerry mountain popularly “Put silk on a goat, and it’s still a goat.” (“broad” or “slender”) of the last vowel. Both –tha ascended through the Hag’s Glen and up the Devil’s “Listen to the sound of the river and you will get a trout.” and –the are pronounced /hee/ in most dialects, / Ladder to the peak at 3,314 feet. (13) “A persons heart is in his feet.” ee/ in some. 7. Jests shame pen. (anag.) Irish writer and poet (1880- “It is a long road that has no turning.” Scuab! /skuab/ “Sweep!” scuabtha “swept” 1950) who wrote ‘The Crock of Gold’ . (5,8) “Necessity knows no law.” Scríobh! /skreev/ “Write! scríobhtha “written” 9. Owners latch up in neat Mayo village on the Sligo “The wearer best knows where the shoe pinches.” If the verb ends in -gh, drop it and add –ta or –te, border. (11) “There is no luck except where there is discipline.” depending on the “quality” of the preceding vowel. –ta 11. You must see the faithful dog in Glengarriff, I do “The man with the boots does not mind where he is pronounced /tuh/ and –te is /chuh/. insist. (4) places his foot.” Nigh! /nee/ “Wash!” 12. Ripe conversion of fairy on Greek roundabout. (4) “The light heart lives long.” nite /NEE-chuh/ “washed” 15. Squirrel’s home back in the American garden in True greatness knows gentleness. If the verb ends in –c, ch, --d, -l, -m, -n, -r or –s, pretty Ardmore. (4) When wrathful words arise a closed mouth is soothing. just add –ta or –te. /glahn/ “Clean !” Glan! ADVERTISEMENT glanta /GLAN-tuh/ “cleaned” Bris! /breesh/ “Break!” briste /BREESH-chuh/ “broken” Bhí am bpláta briste ach bhí an úrlar glanta. Literally, “Was the plate broken but was the floor cleaned” is in good English, “The plate was broken Photography by but the floor was cleaned.” If the verb ends in –t it is dropped or the spelling –d becomes –t to reflect the true pronunciation. Tit /teet/ “to fall” becomes Image Photo Service tite /TEE-chuh/ “fallen” Goid /goyj/ “to steal” becomes goite /GOY-chuh/ “stolen” • Weddings • Anniversaries

Now let us see if you can make verbal adjectives • Banquets • Portraits from the following verbs: 1. Fag “leave” 2. Léigh “read” 3. Ól “drink” 4. • Reunions Pioc “pick” 5. Measc “mix” 6. Léim “jump” 7. Leag “lay down” 8. Gabh “go” 9. Dúin “close” 10. Fan • Groups • Families “wait” 11. Díol “sell” 12. Ceap “think”

Answers: 1. Fagtha “left” 2. Léite “read” 3. Ólta • Special Occasions “drunk” 4. Pioctha “picked” 5. Measctha “mixed” 6. Léimthe “jumped” 7. Leagtha “layed down” 8. Gabhtha “gone” 9. Dúinte “closed” 10. Fanta (617) 291-6609 “waited” 11. Díolta “sold” 12. Ceaptha “thought” More about verbal adjectives in following columns! The official photographers of the Boston Irish Reporter Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com April 2011 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 23 Boston Irish Reporter Book Briefs Reviews of books recently published in Ireland, courtesy of readireland.com

Irish Country Houses of an imperative to perpetuate by Coillte, the Forest Service this remarkable civic amenity. by the Knight of Glin a building form, derived largely Northern Ireland and the Na- Thanks to those who helped from Romano-British and bibli- tional Parks and Wildlife Ser- create a woodland culture in cal exemplars, that had become vice. In his six-year journey the Ireland, forestry is no longer associated with the saints who author has explored all our na- the land use of last restort but had Christianized Ireland and tive and naturalized woodlands, a vibrant, wealth-creating rural founded its great ecclesiasti- and the State forests established resource, which the public are cal centres. These churches since the beginning of the last invited to share and enjoy. were associative relics: perma- century. Stopping by Woods is nent stone versions of wooden a celebration and record of this Time on the Ocean: churches built by the founders, remarkable civic amenity. embodying memories about His epic journey in discovering From Cape Horn these saints and legitimizing the and writing about these forest to Cape Town authority of their successors. It and woodlands has been noth- was primarily through rituals ing short of heroic. This book that these ideas were conveyed will provide readers, including to the general population. students, specialist groups, his- In this book, the Irish archi- torians and the general public tectural context of early medi- with a deep understanding of eval rituals is analyzed for the Irish forests and their heritage. first time. It also includes the It is a book for our times, for pects of his work, from his ne- This book takes the reader on glected poetry to his renowned a tour of ten grand Irish country most detailed analysis to date of people who care about our tree the layout of the most important culture and about sustainable “The Picture of Dorian Gray” houses, still in the hands of their and “The Importance of Being original families. The Knight Irish ecclesiastical complexes, development. including Armagh, Clonmac- A quiet revolution is taking Earnest.” Taken as a whole, of Glin and James Peill tell the the book represents a balanced tale of some of the more colorful noise and Glendalough. At place in Irish forestry. Forest each of these sites there were cover has doubled to 10 percent view of contemporary Wilde inhabitants, whilst the specially Studies. Contributors range commissioned photographs ten or more churches, along of the land mass within two with other monuments such as generations, benefiting both from internationally renowned by James Fennell capture the expert Wildeans to new voices distinctive personalities of the round towers and high crosses. woodland owners and the for- O Carragain argues that some est industry. Forests, however, in the field, pointing the way owners: a red silk bell-pull forward for future research. The against green floral wallpaper, a of these monumental schemes are valued not only for their were intended to recall distant economic benefits, but for their main focus is on the genres in drawer full of 200-year-old love which Wilde wrote, but there are letters, the curve of a wonder- sacred topographies, especially enhancement of landscape, Jerusalem and Rome. He also ecology, heritage and the soul. also special chapters on Wilde’s fully carved antique chair. This by Theo Dorgan biography, Wilde as a Victorian, is a book for lovers of Ireland, identifies a clear political and “Stopping by Woods” ad- On one level, this is an excit- ideological context for the dresses these issues but above and Wilde on the Web. Killeen history or decoration. ing account of a journey under has provided an up-to-date and first Romanesque churches in all is concerned with how trees sail from Punto Arenas in Chile Ireland and shows that, to a and woodlands meet the needs comprehensive profile of Wilde Churches in Early to South Africa - around Cape that will appeal to all those considerable extent, the Irish of society at a time when over Horn, on to the Malvinas/Falk- Medieval Ireland: Romanesque represents the per- 20 million visits are made an- with an interest in him from lands and, via Tristan da Cunha, general readers to sixth form Architecture, Ritual petuation of a long-established nually to Ireland’s forests. This to landfall in Cape Town. Under- architectural tradition. is mainly because in the early students, from undergraduates and Memory scoring the narrative is Theo’s to academics. twentieth century the State great-grandmother’s story: She By Tomas O Carragain took an enlightened decision This is the first book devoted Stopping By Woods died in childbirth off Cape Horn, to become directly involved in and was buried at sea. As one Ireland: A View By Donal Magner restoring the country’s wood- Stopping by Woods is a fasci- would expect from Theo, this is from Above land resource when Irish forests a poetic and evocative account, nating guide to 340 forests and had been radically diminished By Kevin Dwyer but it is also an adventure. Will In 1989 a client asked Kevin woodlands open to the public by centuries of exploitation and appeal, not only to sailing en- Dwyer to submit a sample aerial throughout Ireland. Donal Mag- neglect. thusiasts and those interested photograph. He had never taken ner writes with a rare insight The State open forest policy, in the adventure aspect of the any so he sent one taken from about forests he has worked in now enshrined by Coillte, the story, but to those who love an a mountaintop. The result was and visited over the years as Forest Service Northern Ireland inspirational story, beautifully a commission for an aerial pho- a forester and journalist. The and the National Parks and told. tograph and his first helicopter book is the first of its kind ever Wildlife Service is a generous flight; his new career “took off.” produced in Ireland and Europe, invitation to all our citizens. A In sunny weather, Ireland is one it is packed with information not small but increasing number From High Places: of the most beautiful places but only about forests and tree spe- of forests are now managed by A Journey Through Kevin sometimes waited a whole cies, but their associated flora local authorities, private grow- Ireland’s Great Moun- summer for suitable weather to and fauna, history and heritage. ers and agencies dedicated to be rewarded with a day from The book features all the woodland conservation. tains heaven. These photographs are to churches in Ireland from the forests featured in the State’s While the Forest Service in By Adrian Hendroff gathered to share the beauty of arrival of Christianity in the open forest policy now enshrined the Republic is no longer di- From High Places is a photo- Ireland as it unfolded on vari- fifth century to the early stages rectly involved in forest estab- graphic celebration of Ireland’s ous flights over the years. They of the Romanesque around lishment, it plays a significant great mountains, from the do not represent all of Ireland 1100, including those built to role in shaping the forests of quartzite giants of Connemara but are quite simply an aerial house treasures of the golden the future, through its support to the towering peaks of Kerry. miscellany. Kevin’s wife, Fie, age of Irish art such as the for afforestation, restoration Adrian Hendroff, mountaineer also took photographs from the Book of Kells and the Ardagh of native woodlands and other and photographer, has taken “other side of the helicopter.” chalice. Carragain’s compre- schemes. these images from the trails and The result is this stunning col- hensive survey of the surviving The book provides a compre- peaks, creating a vivid impres- lection inviting one to explore examples forms the basis for a hensive guide to 340 forests and sion of exactly what it is like to this beautiful island country far-reaching analysis of why woodlands open to the public visit Ireland’s high places. for oneself. Kevin captures the these buildings looked as they throughout Ireland. Donal Mag- spirit and color of Ireland, its did, and what they meant in the ner writes with a rare insight Oscar Wilde: varied landscape of rivers and context of early Irish society. about forests he has worked lakes, coast and mountains, The most immediately strik- in and visited over the years Irish Writers the tranquillity of ancient ing feature of these buildings as a forester and journalist. in Their Time monasteries and vibrant cities is their simplicity: virtually all It is packed with information By Jarlath Killeen and towns. are rectangular in plan with not only about forests and tree This collection of original a single doorway in the west species, but their associated articles on Oscar Wilde and his wall. This was not because of flora and fauna, history and writings ignorance of architecture else- heritage. “Stopping by Woods” c o v e r s where in Europe, but the result is a celebration and record of all as- PUZZLE SOLUTION FROM PAGE 21

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Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, Co. Antrim.

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DIMENSIONS TOURISM IRELAND Supplied by: Tengo Two, S.L. Diaspora Campaign 2011 Page Trim: 10” X 16" Barcelona, Spain Publication: Boston Irish Bleed: 10.25” X 16.25" Tel: 011 [34] 652 081 624 Publish Date: March 2011 Live Area: 9” X 15" eMail: [email protected] Materials Date: Feb 25th, 2011