January 2018 Boston’s hometown VOL. 29 #11 journal of Irish culture. $2.00 Worldwide at All contents copyright © 2018 bostonirish.com Boston Neighborhood News, Inc. Fearful times across Boston for undocumented Feds are grabbing immigrants, then deporting them speedily By Peter F. Stevens BIR Staff President Donald Trump is keeping his pledge to unleash US Immigrations and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to ferret out illegal immigrants, and the impact of the directive on Boston’s Irish community has swelled over the last year. The immediate future looms even worse for Irish who have overstayed their visas or fallen into other undocumented and illegal categories. According to the Irish International Immigrant Center in Boston, ICE has rounded up at least 17 local Irish, most of whom had remained in or near Boston in violation of their 90-day holiday visas. Over the past three months or so, ICE has seized and deported an ever-rising number of Irish nationwide. In the larger picture, in the eleven months since Trump signed his executive order on rounding up illegal immigrants, ICE has made 33,366 more arrests than in 2016, a leap of 30 percent. Celtic Roots in rehearsal at West Bend Music, whose co-founder George March formed the band. ICE and the administration have refused to provide Sean Smith photo national numbers of Irish who have been swept up in the agency’s net, leading to speculation that the White House does not want to anger the many older The ‘Keltic Kids’ are now history; Irish-Americans who, although supportive of Trump’s efforts vow to crack down on illegal immigrants from south of the border, Asia, and the Middle East, might ‘Celtic Roots’ says it much better take exception to men and women from Ireland being the members have enjoyed success step dancing); Lili Hay, 13 (fiddle); added to the mix. By Sean Smith (Continued on page 14) Special to the BIR in the Mid-Atlantic Fleadh Cheoil Fern Tamigini-O’Donnell, 13 (fiddle, Please, don’t call them “kids” and other Irish music competitions. vocals); Alex Birdsey, 14 (fiddle); any more. “We just felt we should have a and Gavin Rice, 14 (banjo, mandolin, Aidan Browne is This past year, the Cape Cod- more mature name,” summed up bass) – have embraced the name and based ensemble of school-age Irish fiddler Ashley Dawn, 14, who added its connotations. musicians formerly known as that members also decided to adopt “Celtic Roots” suggests a sense building a legacy of “Keltic Kids” changed its name to a “band uniform,” complete with of connection to the music tradi- “Celtic Roots.” The time was ripe, ties, to affirm its shared identity. tion that the group members have members say: When the group So everyone got into a circle and made their own, individually and Irish sport in Boston began about five years ago, most fired off suggestions. collectively. But the word “roots” of them were eight or nine years “It was a huge debate,” recalled could also have a generational di- By Tyler McManus old, without much performance fiddle, flute, and whistle player mension – a reference to the caring Special to the BIR experience. Since then, the band Jonathan Ford, 13. Ultimately, adults who encourage and assist Aidan Browne, a partner at the Sullivan & Worces- has appeared locally at BCMFest Ashley said, Celtic Roots was “one young musicians’ immersion in the ter law firm, is a “go-to” person with vast experience (Boston Celtic Music Fest), been on of the only serious names that came tradition. representing US and Irish companies., so when he radio, done some school and benefit around.” However they came up Foremost among these, in the received a call in 2015 from Fionnuala Quinlan, the concerts and – by the way – opened with it, Ashley, Jonathan and their case of Celtic Roots, would be fid- Consul General of Ireland in Boston, it was not an for popular Irish/Americana quartet Celtic Roots colleagues – Jonathan’s dler Clayton March, a co-founder of unusual event. We Banjo 3. In addition, some of sister Bailey, 11 (piano, concertina, (Continued on page 11) “Aidan, I have some people from Dublin in town,” she said. “It’s the founder and CEO of the Gaelic Players Association ‘HIS DUTY WAS DONE TO THE LAST’ (GPA) and one of his colleagues. Would you mind meeting them?” On Jan. 16, 1908, BPD officer Lynch made the ultimate sacrifice Browne had never heard of the GPA and he was hesitant at first. By Peter F. Stevens The 23-year-old Lynch’s Doyle pounced on the A Dublin native, he is a devoted BIR Staff muscular 6-foot-2-inch gunman and pushed the fan of the annual All-Ireland Gaelic First of two-parts frame was pinning an- revolver away from him football and hurling (the women’s “For God’s sake, keep other man to the ground. as Lynch lay crumpled version is called camogie) cham- him away and don’t let him In the man’s right hand in the snow, writhing pionships. But his only playing shoot me again!” shouted was a smoking 38-caliber in agony from a bullet experience was in a youth parish Aidan Browne: Patrolman John T. Lynch revolver. “I saw Lynch that, according to the league for St. John Bosco School. at Officer John P. Doyle, on top of a man, holding later police report, “had a “go to” man on However, after the consul gen- Irish affairs. who had rushed across icy, the hand that grasped entered the right side of eral mentioned that the CEO of snow-cloaked Arch Street the revolver and turning the officer above the liver the GPA was Dessie Farrell, the captain of the 1995 to the corner of Summer it away from him,” Doyle and entered into the vi- All-Ireland Champion Dublin Gaelic football team, and Kingston streets as later said to reporters. tals.” Despite the grievous Browne agreed to meet with him and his colleague. three shots pealed though A crowd had begun to wound, Lynch had refused “I sat with down with Dessie, and as he explained to me the chill evening air of Jan. gather. to let the shooter escape. what he was doing, what his philosophy and ambitions Patrolman John T. Lynch As Lynch rolled off, (Continued on page 14) 16, 1908. (Continued on page 14)

I work in Hollywood but I keep my money in my hometown-Kevin Chapman Check out City of Boston Credit Union - visit CityofBostonCU.com Page 2 January 2018 BOSTON IRISH Reporter bostonirish.com Irish International Immigrant Center Immigration Q&A

An agency accredited by US Department of Justice I just got my green One State Street, 8th Floor, Boston, MA 02109 card; so now what? Telephone (617) 542-7654 Fax (617) 542-7655 Q. I have just been granted permanent resident status Website:iiicenter.org Email: [email protected] in the US. Can you give a summary of my rights and responsibilities regarding such issues as travel abroad, reentering the US, losing my green card, and registering An Irishman’s journey from for service in the armed forces?

A. With your permanent resident status (green Cork to Quincy, and beyond card), you can live and work legally anywhere in the When Tom Cronin, a the year there as assis- Tom is thriving in Bos- US. You can petition US Citizenship and Immigration Mathematics and Actu- tant director of economic ton, and in only a few Services (USCIS) for green cards for your spouse and arial Science graduate development. The posi- short months has quick- unmarried children. Generally, after living here for from University College tion complements Tom’s ly immersed himself in four years and nine months (two years and nine months Cork, was deciding where studies at university, put- American culture. “Since if your status is based on the fact that your spouse is he would spend twelve ting theory into practice, touching down in Boston a US citizen and you are still living in marital union months on his J-1 Intern and providing him with from Cork a couple months with him/her), you can apply to become a US citizen. visa in the United States, hands-on international ago,” he says,” I’ve been You can travel outside the US whenever you like. he was drawn to Boston’s experience. able to experience a lot. You must have your green card, along with a valid vibrant culture, rich his- Tom’s position at the From trying out the night foreign passport, with you to present to US Customs tory, and deep connection IIIC J-1 Intern Tom chamber also enables him life, playing with Harvard Cronin takes a break and Border Protection (CBP) when you re-enter the to Ireland. Since his ar- to maintain a connection soccer teams, cycling from from his bike journey US. You should keep a record of the dates each time rival, he has found Boston with his hometown; part Boston to the tip of Cape across Massachusetts to you leave and return (backed up if possible with travel to be a welcoming city with of the role includes sup- Cod, going to live gigs, and Provincetown. documents such as airline tickets and boarding cards), strong and supportive porting Quincy-based trips to New York City - and it is important always to re-enter the US legally Irish networks. businesses as they look to it’s been great. I couldn’t interested in taking on an by using a CBP border checkpoint, including brief trips Tom found an intern- develop internationally, recommend Boston more!” Irish student or graduate over the border to Canada and Mexico. ship with the Quincy particularly in Cork. This At the IIIC, we wish for a 12-month internship When you travel abroad you must be careful not to Chamber of Commerce fosters greater economic Tom all the best as he placement, please contact “abandon” your residence in the US. If you want to through Irish contacts, partnership and success continues his journey Paul Pelan (617-542-7654, leave for more than 12 months you must get a “reen- and he will be spending between the two cities. here in the US. If you are [email protected]). try permit” from USCIS before you leave or CBP will presume that you have abandoned your status and may not readmit you. A reentry permit is granted at Matters of Substance the discretion of USCIS for specific purposes, for ex- ample, going abroad to attend university, or going to Prepare for the New Year by picking a “theme’ your original home country to take care of an elderly or ill parent. Here we are after “the out for you in particular. Also, if you leave for more than six months but less holidays”! The endless A very small percentage than a year, you are not automatically presumed to have lists are done and crum- of us actually stick to new abandoned your US permanent residence, but you can pled in the corner, along year’s “resolutions”, which face scrutiny on this issue from CBP when you return. with the wrapping paper. leads to disappointment. It is important to consult with us at IIIC or with your Maybe you have been run- This is not the way to start immigration lawyer before taking a trip out of the US ning from party to party a new chapter. Instead of lasting more than six months. to see friends and family, following a “resolution”, Even if you have a green card, immigration authori- eating a lot, maybe drink- think of a theme for your ties can prevent you from reentering the US, or deport ing a lot, along the way. year. Consider gratitude, you if you are in this country and if you are convicted You may be happy, yet honesty, forgiveness, so- of certain crimes. Certain offenses that may not seem exhausted as you survey briety, or connection. very serious could be viewed as grounds for deporta- the past few weeks. Keep it simple, and not Our Wellness services team, Siobhan Kelly (left) and tion, or they could keep you from being readmitted if As 2018 is cresting, something that involves you leave the US, or from obtaining US citizenship. If we surface to face the Rachel Reisman, LICSW (right), is here to help you spending money or jump- in realizing your wellness goals, coping with sub- you are charged with a crime, it is essential that you new year along with the ing through hoops. You consult an immigration lawyer as well as a lawyer bracing chill of Boston’s stance abuse, stress, and anxiety, and in preparing will benefit more from for the year ahead. specializing in criminal cases, as the law involving wintry months. While we a quiet awareness and the consequences of criminal convictions on a person’s that the season can bring. sion, the holidays may hope that most of you have cultivation of something immigration status is extremely complex. For many immigrants add unseen stressors. It been surrounded by love that will benefit you. Mak- If you are a male at least 18 years old and under 26 at away from “home,” it is is hard to stay healthy and happiness these past ing an effort to cultivate the time when you got your green card, your responsi- also a time filled with while many around us weeks, we also know that your own personal theme, bilities include registering with Selective Service (even memories and, occasion- and the omnipresent ads the holidays often bring even just a little each day, though there is no military conscription in effect in the ally, the pain of not being are encouraging us to do sadness, grief, and stress. can bring big rewards US at this time). If you do not register, you may be able to return to those otherwise. It can be a lot to manage: physically, mentally, and subject to criminal prosecution. If convicted, you could we love. For those trying As 2018 unfolds, take a finding joy while also ex- spiritually. be deported. Failing to register may also prevent or to stay sober, or manag- moment to consider how periencing the loneliness To select your new delay you from becoming a US citizen. You can get the ing anxiety and depres- you would like it to play year’s theme, find a quiet necessary form at any post office, or you can register moment to reflect about online at sss.gov. what is bogging you down Other responsibilities of permanent residents include emotionally. Perhaps it’s filing accurate federal and state tax returns annually a relationship, a harm- and paying any taxes that you owe; reporting any change ful pattern with alcohol, of address to USCIS within 10 days; and having your a lack of community, or children who are permanent residents register with age-old wounds. Envision USCIS within 10 days of turning 14. Your green card IRISH LANGUAGE CLASSES how a change might feel does not entitle you to vote in US elections or serve on or look; find people, places juries – you must be a US citizen for that. Doing so as and situations that will a legal permanent resident amounts to a false claim of help get you there. US citizenship and can have very serious consequences. We are here to help Visit one of our weekly legal clinics for a free, confi- you with this, too. We dential consultation on your specific questions about are happy to support your any immigration-related issue. goals for 2018 and to be a Disclaimer: These articles are published to inform coach in your corner! Take generally, not to advise in specific cases. The US Citizen- advantage of our free and ship and Immigration Services and US Department of confidential wellness ser- State regularly amend regulations and alter processing vices. We can discuss what and filing procedures. For legal advice seek the assis- you would like to change tance of IIIC immigration legal staff. in the months ahead and will be on this journey with you. Whether you are feel- Irish International Immigration Center ing a bit battered by the holiday buzz, or energized FREE LEGAL CLINICS 2018 to take on the new year in WHAT: CONTACT: a different way, we would FOR IMMIGRATION ASSISTANCE Irish language course for all levels Siobhan Kelly love to hear from you. Our Hosted by the Irish International Immigrant 617.542.7654, ext. 15 Irish classes, starting on Downtown Boston Brighton Center in partnership with Cumann na Gaeilge [email protected] Jan. 18, are also a way One State St., 11th Floor The Green Briar Pub to feel connected, learn Boston, MA 02109 304 Washington St. WHEN: FEE: something new, and fill Tuesdays at 4 p.m. Brighton, MA 02135 Thursdays 6:15 -8:30pm $112 for CnaG members yourself with a little bit January 2 Mondays at 6:30 p.m. January 18th - March 8th $128 for non-members of home! January 16 January 8 Happy Holidays from February 6 February 12 WHERE: Become a member of CnaG by visiting Rachel and Siobhan! Irish International Immigrant Center their website: cumann-na-gaeilge.org. [email protected] South Boston Dorchester One State Street, 8th Floor 617-542-7654, Ext. 14; Laboure Center St. Mark’s Parish Boston, MA 02109 [email protected] 275 W. Broadway 1725 Dorchester Avenue 617-542-7654, Ext.15 So. Boston 02127 Dorchester 02124 Facebook: Irish Out- Tuesdays at 6 p.m. Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. reach & Wellness Services February 27 January 24 Boston-IIIC April 24 March 28 bostonirish.com January 2018 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 3 Boston is often called “the most Irish city in America,” night gala for best feature and other awards, guest and there’s always plenty to do all across the city to Mark Your 2018 Calendar filmmakers and after parties. Iortishfilmfestival.com. celebrate Irish American culture. The BIR invited reception at the Boston College Burns Library to Thurs., April 5 – Boston’s Irish Consulate plans a the major Irish groups to give us an advance on their celebrate the donation of several Irish Civil War-era major event at EM Kennedy Institute to commemorate events planned for the new year, and here are just a letters to the library collection. the 20th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement few dates to pencil in: Thurs., March 15 – Irish American Partnership’s with former US Sen. George Mitchell as guest. Thurs., Jan. 25 – Irish International Immigrant annual St. Patrick’s Day Breakfast, 8-10 a.m., Bosotn Sat., April 7 – Eire Society of Boston annual Gold Centre (IIIC), with the support of the Arbella Insur- Harbor Hotel… American Ireland Fund’s St Patrick’s Medal dinner, The 2018 honoree is James T Brett. ance Foundation and Geraghty Associates, will launch Evening Reception. Venue to be announced. the Arbella Foundation Immigrant Learning Center at Sat., March 17 – St Patrick’s Day. Sun, April 8 – Boston Friends of the GPA 2018 One State Street, Boston, 12:30pm. The new classrooms Sun., March 18 – Boston’s St Patrick’s/Evacuation dinner, Intercontinental Hotel, Boston. and meeting rooms will be used for the education of Day Parade, South Boston preceded by the St. Patrick’s Thurs., Oct .18 – Ninth annual Boston Irish Honors immigrant and refugee families, and to provide im- South Boston breakfast. luncheon, Plaza Ballroom, Seaport Hotel. migration legal services. Thursday-Sunday, March 22-25 – 18th Annual Thurs,, Nov.15 – American Ireland Fund Boston Wed., Jan. 31– The Eire Society of Boston luncheon Irish Film Festival, Somerville Theatre, with opening Gala Dinner Savin Hill’s McDonough shines as leader at Thayer Academy in Braintree

By Daniel Sheehan won the prestigious Com- Reporter Correspondent munity Spirit Award at A Dorchester student- Thayer in the spring of his athlete is being recog- sophomore year because nized for his leadership he is so well respected by on and off the gridiron this everyone here at school.” season. Mike McDonough, Mike’s father Brendan a senior at Braintree’s said his son, the oldest of Thayer Academy, recently four, has been a leader earned First Team All since he was a young kid. League honors and was “Academically, athleti- awarded the Seymour cally, and most important- Stadfeld Award for his ly morally, he has been contributions to the Ti- an example to everyone gers’ football program. Michael McDonough, in our family on a daily McDonough, 18, was Thayer Academy ’18. basis.” Charitable Irish Society According to his father, co-captain of the team He was a true leader on and played at the middle Mike is a quiet leader with the field, communicating a “calm and gently de- awards its Silver Keys to three linebacker and fullback everything play to play to positions. meanor” off the field. But The Charitable Irish Society(CIS), the oldest such organization in the Ameri- the team and playing at a that changes the moment cas, hosted its 19th Silver Key Awards Reception on Dec. 6 at the Fairmont “Mike was our vocal high level.” and spiritual leader,” said he steps on the gridiron Copley Plaza Hotel in Copley Square. Silver Key Awards were to presented According to faculty and his “fiery competitive Winnie Henry, the IIIC’s Ronnie Millar, and Boston Mayor Martin J. Walsh head coach Jeff Toussaint. members, McDonough’s “He always got the team nature comes out.” in recognition of their outstanding contributions to the Irish community. leadership qualities ex- This spirit is what Silver Key honorees, above: Ronnie Millar, Winnie Henry, and Mayor Walsh pumped up before games tend beyond the playing with encouragement--and those around Michael say with Sandra Moody, CIS keeper of the Silver Key (left), and Christopher Dug- field at Thayer Academy, gan, CIS president. Ed Forry photo a little bit of dancing!” earned him the respect of where he has served on his peers and teachers, Ken Burke, the Tigers’ the student government defensive coordinator, as well as the Stadfeld since his freshman year. Award, an honor given describes McDonough as “Mike is a dedicated a focused competitor and annually to a player who student, a determined “warms both hands before a student of the game. and loyal teammate, and “Michael quarter- the fire of life.” Brendan a thoughtful and caring McDonough said his son backed our defense from school leader,” said Terri the middle linebacker po- embodies this mantra Lukens, McDonough’s each day. sition from start to finish faculty advisor. “He is an this season,” said Burke. “He is not the type of earnest and kind person, kid to sit idle and wait for “We asked him to be the who has never backed point man on understand- things to happen. Michael down from challenge and takes each day like it is ing film and understand- difficulty.” ing all of our defensive his last day and lives it to “Mike is fiercely loyal the fullest. Importantly, concepts; Michael ate to his family, friends, everything up with en- he does it in a warm and teammates and school,” kind way.” thusiasm and confidence. added Lukens. “In fact, he

Father Peyton, ‘Rosary Priest,’ one step closer to sainthood Pope Francis has de- refrains “The family that clared a priest with Mas- prays together stays to- sachusetts connections, gether” and “A world Rev. Patrick Peyton, CSC, at prayer is a world at as “venerable” in the eyes peace.” He founded Family of the Roman Catholic Rosary, an organization Church, the third step in dedicated to encouraging a five-step process leading families to pray together, to an individual’s canon- and spread his message ization as a saint. through Catholic media McDonough, #44, captained Thayer’s football team at the middle linebacker The fourth step, to- throughout the 20th cen- and fullback positions, ear\ning him Independent School league honors. ward a recognition of tury. beatification (the person Holy Cross Family Min- as “blessed”) requires istries, which carries on that a miracle (something the works of Father Pey- Movement seen for memorial on verified by church officials ton, is now headquartered as scientifically unex- in Easton, MA, adjacent plainable, like a healing) to Stonehill College. After Deer Island for quarantine dead has taken place through his death at 1992 at age There’s progress to re- an 18-foot Celtic Cross by the late Bill and Rita the intercession of the 83, he was buried in Holy port on efforts to establish is now being sculpted, O’Connell and they are individual; the fifth step Cross Cemetery on the a memorial to the Irish and will be installed on a working with historian requires a second miracle, college campus. who fled on “famine ships” promontory overlooking Christine Kinealy and city and approval leads to Rev. Patrick Peyton His supporters in the in the mid-19th century the Harbor. “There has archivist John McColgan canonization, i.e., the dec- the rosary, as his parents cause for his sainthood only to lose their lives been considerable move- to prepare interpretative laration of the individual had instilled upon him as says that hundreds of in quarantine in Boston ment on Deer Island,” signage for the site. as a “saint.” a child and, citing an inter- testimonies to Father Harbor. More than 800 Foley said. “The stone Foley had praise for the Rev. Peyton, a Holy cession by the Mary, the Peyton’s heroic virtue Irish men, women and wall is almost complete MWRA which controls the Cross father, was born in mother of Jesus, Blessed and holiness of life have children died and were and we expect the delivery land, and Winthrop con- Carricastle, Co. Mayo, in Mother, he made a full been recorded, that tens of buried in graves on Deer of the Celtic Cross in late tractor Mike Carney and 1909, and emigrated to recovery. thousands of prayer cards Island, and a committee winter.” volunteer Mark Porter, the US as a young man. It was that recovery containing a prayer for a has been at work to create Foley and BIR pub- who are among a group of While in the seminary that colored his ministry. favor through his interces- a memorial. lisher Ed Forry have volunteers to complete the in his mid-30s, he was He was known over the sion are in circulation, and John Foley, an East been heading the effort memorial. Dedication cer- stricken with tuberculosis world from then on as that hundreds of favors Boston attorney who is co- to complete the task con- emonies are tentatively and was given little hope “The Rosary Priest” who have been reported. chairs the effort, said that ceived two decades ago set for next spring. of survival. He turned to coined the well-known Page 4 January 2018 BOSTON IRISH Reporter bostonirish.com Publisher’s Notebook Commentary The new year looms Don’t bet big on anything that busy in Irish affairs involves the Brexit negotiations

By Ed Forry By Joe Leary be closed to free travel and free trade, thus preventing The New Year will bring some exciting new develop- Special to the BIR the people of Ireland free access and trade with each ments at Boston’s Irish Consulate. In an end-of-year More confusion, anger, and misleading statements other as each European country interview just before Christmas, third year Consul mark the continuing process to facilitate Britain’s will have to do at their airports. This is no easy task General Fionnuala Quinlan said she plans a March leaving the 27-nation European Union, which would since Ireland is very small in terms of population, program on Ireland’s literary legacy, and an observa- be humorous if it were not so important to the people geography, and power. tion of the 20th anniversary of the historic Good Friday of Ireland. The British have voted to leave the orga- The new prime minister of Ireland, Leo Varadkar, Agreement in April. nization that was created to initiate cooperation and is working hard to see that Ireland is treated fairly. “I am planning a major healthier economies amongst European countries that He has the backing of the rest of the EU members, event at the Edward M Ken- had many years of war between them. However, the and Ireland’s Foreign Affairs Department and the In- nedy Institute on the fifth of people of Northern Ireland, still a part of Britain, per vestment Development Authority, both extraordinary April to mark the 20th an- the 1922 partition of Ireland, and Ireland itself voted government agencies, are working with him. niversary of the Good Friday to stay with Europe. But these are not the only issues. Recent polls Agreement. George Mitchell There is a 313-mile border indicate that the British people have changed their has agreed to speak at that between Ireland and North- point of view and would most likely vote to remain gathering. I’ll certainly be ern Ireland, and it is the only with Europe. But the conservatives in Britain and the looking for a good turnout for land border between Britain hardliners in Belfast (the DUP) want to leave and are that event,” she said. and the EU requiring special not permitting another vote. “We’re also hoping,” she agreements to deal with Britain’s Prime Minister Theresa May has to ne- said, “to have our Literary trade and the free passage gotiate with the Europeans while keeping her home Festival again this year. That of people. This situation constituencies happy. And Britain is not the land of will be in early March. Last presents a major problem shy politicians. Some political leaders are so critical of year we had it at the Harvard Club and I haven’t for Brexit negotiators. The May’s performance that they are openly talking about confirmed a venue just yet.” hard-liners, including the her resigning as prime minister within the short term. There’s more. “St Patrick’s Day, or St Patrick’s Protestant conservatives Last month, May faced a revolt by her own party; Month, as I like to call it in Boston, will be a very big in the North, want a strong it voted against her by taking away her power to sign time of year,” she said. “We will almost certainly have border complete with bar- any agreement with Europe without getting legislative a Minister visiting, and there will be a good program of approval first. This, of course, curtails her negotiating Joe Leary riers and check points to events, as there always is. And we are so lucky. With reinforce their claim for power rather severely. In the aftermath, she had to all the partnerships we have here in Boston, with all staying with Britain. agree not to set any settlement dates until she received the community organizations, the cultural organiza- The border was created in 1922 by Britain to keep Parliament’s approval first. The separation date is tions, political contacts, and business contacts, we warring Catholics and Protestants apart. Six of the currently set at March 29, 2019. have a wide variety of activities that happen around nine counties of Ulster were attached to Britain in the Before the real negotiations began the Europeans St Patrick’s Day in March, and, indeed, throughout partition because the other three had Catholic majori- required agreement on three things: The amount of the year. ties and stayed with the South. This separation has money Britain would pay to the EU for current obli- “Last year we had visits from now-former Taoise- caused thousands of deaths, shootings, and bombings gations. The offer is 39 billion pounds (41 billion US ach and former Tanaiste, Enda Kenny and Frances since that time. dollars.) Solutions to the question of European citizens Fitzgerald, and five other ministers, including Paschal It is generally agreed that Ireland, North and South, current living in Britain. Would they have to go back Donahue, who is now the Minister for Finance. From would both be far stronger if they were together again to Europe, for example? And, most critically, the Irish a business and community perspective, and culturally, and not set apart by this unnatural border less than border question. there’s an awful lot happening in 2018 as well. So it’s 100 years old. The religious demographics have changed No sooner had May delivered the answers than going to be a good year for the consulate.” since 1922. According to the latest population figures, Britain’s chief negotiator, David Davis, stated that the The new year will also bring an important event for there are 6.8 million people living on the island of Ire- answers provided represented a gentleman’s agreement, Quinlan and her husband, Ravi: “We’re expecting our land. There are 4.8 million in the Republic of Ireland not a legal document. To which Europe’s chief negotiator, first baby toward the end of March,” she revealed. “I and 1.8 million on Britain’s side of the border. It has Michel Barnier, responded, “There is no going back.” am really looking forward to that!” been estimated that less than half, or 14 percent of all Doesn’t sound like they are all on the same page. Since her arrival in the city in September 2015, the of Ireland, mostly Northern hardliners, would vote to It is evident that Britain is going to have a difficult couple have made their overseas home in South Boston. stay with Britain if they had the chance to return to time over the next two years no matter what direction She said Ravi “is from India originally but has spent Ireland. the talks take. No one should make a big bet on anything. more than half his life at this point between the US The Brexit problem is whether or not the border will and Europe. But he’s still very connected, his mum is still in India. He has lived the last 20 years between the US, France, and Ireland.” Quinlan says the baby will be born in Boston, and they will stay in the city after the baby arrives. “I get Ode on Ageless Virtues Learned and Lived Irish maternity leave, that’s six months,” she said. By James W. Dolan inner scholar and move up to Intermediate Some- “I’ll be in Boston for the majority of the time. I will, of Special to the Reporter thing. But, for the most part, we managed to hold our course, bring the baby home to Ireland at some point, About a dozen members of the BC High class of 1956 own, clinging to mediocrity like shipwrecked sailors so that family and friends get a chance to meet him.” gathered recently for lunch at Amrheins. Attendance clutching driftwood. How we managed to make it to She expects that her mother-in-law will travel from at the annual event has diminished as class members graduation was our first, and hopefully not our last, India for the baby’s birth, and her parents plan a Boston have died or become disabled. The inevitable passage salvation experience. visit in the spring. “They will be here the end of May, from youth to old age has taken its toll on the boys who, We are now grandfathers in our late 70s, out of BC and Ravi’s mum will be here around the time of the fresh faced and energetic in 1952, exited the former High 62 years and looking back on the lives that our births, so we are lucky we will have plenty of support.” MBTA Northampton Station and walked to the old high school experience enriched. Some of us have been Hers will be the second new baby at the consulate, BC High on Harrison Avenue in the South End. It was more fortunate than others for reasons often impos- as Vice Consul Aoife Budd had her own baby last sum- there that we spent our first two years before moving sible to explain. We all share a deep appreciation of the mer and will be back from maternity leave soon. “We to the new campus on Morrissey Boulevard. values learned and the friendships made at BC High. have a wonderful acting vice consul at the moment, It was a grand group of fellows, eager yet apprehen- The significance of the words “a man for others” is as Susan Geraghty Krusell, and she will stay with us sive, particularly after being told at orientation that important now as it has ever been. during the transition period,” Quinlan said. “Dublin many of us would fall by the wayside and never make The BC High of today is different from the one we is still working out how they will cover my maternity it to graduation. The all- male environment had its attended. It’s more diverse and more academically leave, but I am confident they will come to a good ar- advantages: Without girls there were fewer distrac- demanding, but the values remain the same. We old rangement to make sure that Boston is well covered. tions, so we were funnier, less inhibited, and not as grads are nearing the end of the line. We gladly pass the “We had quite a change in 2017 but I am happy self-conscious as we otherwise might have been. torch to recent grads, knowing they will face challenges to say we have a wonderful team, a wonderful staff, We were all required to requiring character and love, the powerful virtues doing an absolutely sterling job. So while we miss wear ties and sport jackets. I implicit in the school motto. With this as a goal and a Carol D’Arcy (office manager) and Colleen DiNicola swear some of my classmates strong moral foundation, developed at least in part on (visa officer) and the others, we’re getting on with it.” wore the same jacket and campus, they, too, will one day join the ranks of proud New staffers include Jack Davidson on visas and tie for all four years. Those alumni, present and, eventually, past. Drogheda native Anne Byrne, a former volunteer at in authority didn’t care how the Irish Pastoral Centre in Dorchester. you looked as long as you BC High Nocturnal The Irish Consulate office is in Copley Square at complied with the dress code. 535 Boylston St. Telephone 617-267-9330. Public office I was in the same class with It’s late, school is not in session; hours are Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 10:30 my cousin Craig, who wore a The classrooms and halls are silent. a.m. - 1:30 p.m. The facility is closed to the public on gray jacket with a ballpoint Listen carefully and in the darkness Wednesdays, except for emergencies. drawing of a flower in his You can hear the sounds of classes past. lapel for the last two years. James W. Dolan The class quickly sorted The air stirs as dim shadows suddenly appear. Boston Irish itself out into the smart, not so smart, and by-the-skin- Muffled sounds of laughter and boyhood banter of-our-teeth sections. As expected, Craig and I were Filter down the hall as a door somewhere closes, REPORTER quickly identified as bottom feeders and gained early Unseen, the school remains in session. The Boston Irish Reporter is published monthly by: admittance to the latter group. We spent so much time Boston Neighborhood News, Inc., in detention, aka “jug,” that our parents thought the It’s then, when students past return, 150 Mt. Vernon St., Suite 120, Dorchester, MA 02125 school day ended at 4 p.m. We continue to honorably To find their youth and bless its joy. [email protected] www.bostonirish.com represent that group at reunions. The brotherhood survives in memory and fact Mary C. Forry, President (1983-2004) Only the Jesuits could have thought up some of the As they make their way from class to class. Edward W. Forry, Publisher Thomas F. Mulvoy Jr., Managing Editor diabolical punitive assignments we received in “jug,” William P. Forry, Editor what the kids now say stands for “Justice under God.” Oh yes! We too once walked these halls; Peter F. Stevens, Contributing Editor Lived, laughed and shared our youthful dreams. News Room: (617) 436-1222 Try writing a 500-word composition, every other word Ads : (617) 436-1222 in pencil. Or, for the hard core, every other letter in The lessons taught are the ones you carry Fax: (617) 825-5516 [email protected] different colored ink. The assignments included such The values learned have served us well. On The Web at www.bostonirish.com thought provoking topics as “On the Inside of a Ping Date of Next Issue: February, 2018 For you one day will join us here Deadline for Next Issue: Friday, January 19 at 12 noon Pong Ball” or “How to Catch a Fly in a Bottle.” Some of us would have preferred solitary confinement. When winter strips away the years, Published monthly in the first week of each month. And all that’s left to take above The Boston Irish Reporter is not liable for errors appearing in advertisements beyond The smart kids took Advanced Everything. Those of the cost of the space occupied by the error. The right is reserved by The Boston Irish us on the other end of the spectrum took Introduction Is how you lived and whom you loved. Reporter to edit, reject, or cut any copy without notice. to Everything. Occasionally, one of us would find his – JWD bostonirish.com January 2018 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 5 Point of View A mayoral milestone – 115 years from Collins to Walsh By Peter F. Stevens Irish Americans must never forget their roots, but that BIR Staff A plea to my they must be assimilated into American life: “Those of At the moment that Martin J. Walsh takes his us born in Ireland or who sprang from the Irish race second oath of office as Boston’s mayor this month, fellow scribes are here to stay. We and our children and children’s he further entrenches his status in the long line of children are here merged in this great, free, composite “Optics, Fraught, and Reboot” – these three Boston Irishman to hold the office. It was 115 years nationality, true and loyal citizens of the state and words now make up the height of lazy, cliché-ridden ago, Jan. 4, 1902, that Patrick Collins was sworn in federal systems, sharing in the burdens and the bless- journalistic jargon. Whether on cable or network as Boston’s first Irish mayor of the twentieth century. ings of the freest people on the earth.” news, in print, online, and everywhere else that the He had come a long way. In 1899, the city’s ward leaders persuaded Collins Punditocracy lurks, the “optics” of these words are In the 1850s as a demented preacher dubbed “the to run for the office that many supporters felt was his dreadful. They are “fraught” with linguistic sloth. Archangel Gabriel” led a Yankee mob through Irish destiny all along—mayor of Boston. After a clash with And a genuine “reboot” of the media’s political Catholic Chelsea, the rioters ripped the cross from the Ward Eight titan Martin Lomasney, “the Mahatma,” coverage appears nowhere in sight. roof of the parish church, shattered windows, and kicked Collins lost narrowly to Republican Thomas N. Hart. In particular, the denizens of FOX “News,” CNN, down doors. The mob dragged Irishmen and boys into Later, after negotiating a political truce with Lomas- and MSNBC unleash this unholy verbal trinity the street and bloodied them with fists, feet, and clubs. ney and rival Democratic factions, Collins solidified round the clock, each term delivered with sonorous Covering himself up as best he could, young Patrick support from Yankee businessmen and politicians or frantic import. Actually, because “optics” and Collins endured his beating—and never forgot it. who believed that he was conservative enough to be a “fraught” sound “oh, so intellectual,” those uttering On March 12, 1844, in County Cork, Patrick Collins “bottom-line” mayor. them want to remind you that they’re the smartest was little more than two when the Great Famine began On election night in November 1901, the Collins- kids in class. Put simply, they’re the laziest. to ravage Ireland. His father succumbed to pneumonia Lomasney “machine” rolled to victory, crushing Hart To steal from the immortal Dr. Jonathan Swift, before his son ever knew him, and the boy and his by the largest margin in Boston’s mayoral annals. let’s suggest a “Modest Proposal”: For each time widowed mother boarded a “coffin ship” for Boston Oliver Wendell Holmes Jr., chief justice of the state these words are voiced or written by journalists and shortly afterward. Supreme Court, swore in Collins as Boston’s second pundits, $25 or more should be deducted from the Mother and son settled for several years in Chelsea’s Irish-born mayor (Hugh O’Brien, in the 1880s, was the speaker’s compensation. You might be pleasantly ramshackle, disease-riddled tenements where Collins first) on Jan. 4, 1902. surprised at how fast people would start reaching learned to scrap against Yankee bullies and those of When it came to political hardball, the local press for a thesaurus. his own heritage alike. He also learned to read and lauded Collins as “a strong man and the city’s defender If those three words ever appear in this space, write in a public school where he displayed a quick, against some of the most corrupt schemes that ever please tee off on this writer! facile intelligence. menaced it.” In 1903, he was swept back into office – P.F.S With college out of the question for a poor immigrant on the strength of his honesty and his pledge to usher youth, Collins worked as a farmhand and a coal miner in an “Era of Good Feeling” for immigrants and blue- in Ohio for two years before, in his teens, he returned In the fall of 1867, he walked into a different sort bloods alike. with his mother to Boston and took a flat in South of meeting—South Boston’s Irish Democratic caucus His dream of peaceful coexistence between Boston’s Boston. He spent his days learning the upholsterer’s where he was welcomed into the bruising world of Irish Democrats and Yankee Republicans was short- trade and many of his night studying at the Boston Boston politics. lived. The news that he had died suddenly on Sept.14, Public Library. Collins started small by winning a slot as a delegate 1905, at the Hot Springs Resort, in Virginia, stunned Collins knew his Irish history and likened Yankee to the state Democratic convention, and in 1868, he the city. prejudice to the British tyranny of his birthplace. He rode a wave of Boston Irish votes to the state’s House of The Boston Globe praised him as “a manly man among was a perfect recruit for local immigrants dreaming Representatives, where he quickly riled some Brahmins manly men, [who]…filled the public office to which he of an uprising against the British once the Civil War as a mouthpiece for “the ragged Irish.” Collins won was called with high honor.” Another writer called ended when the Irish, wearing Union blue, could ap- reelection and also crashed through a Yankee bastion him “the recognized leader of his race.” At Holy Cross ply their bloody battlefield lessons against the British. by earning a law degree from Harvard in 1871. So Cathedral, Collins’s constituents gave him a hero’s Sometime in 1864, Collins strode into a meeting of the popular was Collins among the local Irish, and some send-off. Far from the soil of Cork, he was laid to rest South Boston Fenian Circle and began to establish Yankees who grudgingly admired his “up by the boot- near his mother, in Holyhood Cemetery in Brookline. himself as “a man to watch” in the movement. En- straps” work ethic, that he was elected to Congress. Today, a stately granite memorial graces the Com- flamed by the would-be rebels’ anti-British rhetoric, He loathed Washington, however, always believing monwealth Avenue Mall. Before Irish Americans hustle he became a Fenian recruiter. However, in the wake of he could better serve Boston’s Irish in Boston. In the past the bust of Patrick Collins, they should stop for a their tragic-comic forays against British-held Canada 1890s, he came back home for good. moment and take a look at his determined visage— it’s after the Civil War, Collins became disillusioned with Collins’s neatly combed and parted hair, bristling that of a man who truly helped put the Irish on Boston’s revolutionary violence, coming to believe that the only mustache, and intense eyes were a welcome sight political map in the twentieth century and paved the way to seize equality was through the ballot box. back in the wards. In an 1884 speech, he urged that way, ultimately, for Mayor Walsh. Law’s death a time for soul-searching By Bill Forry for holiness in a journey which can be Editor marked by failures large and small,” Cardinal Bernard Law, the former O’Malley wrote. archbishop of Boston who left our city Law’s failures were so consequential, in disgrace amid the clergy child abuse so harmful to children, and to the church scandal that was exposed by brave vic- itself that the gift of forgiveness will be tims, attorneys, and reporters at the a bridge too far for many of us. But our Boston Phoenix and the Boston Globe, faith— for those who do believe— will died in Rome on Tuesday at age 86. prompt many of us to try. There is no Law’s legacy shame in that. A person can arrive at Commentary is that of a a spiritual form of forgiveness without villain who succumbing to the sins of an apologist covered up the criminal acts of Catho- or choosing to forget the lessons of the lic priests who preyed upon the most sins themselves. vulnerable people in Greater Boston, We recall from our own archives the including Dorchester’s parishes. A 2003 day in 1984 when Law arrived in Bos- report by Massachusetts Attorney Gen- ton to begin his duties. St. Ambrose in eral Thomas Reilly estimated that nearly Fields Corner had been destroyed in 800 children had been abused by at least a fire that week. As the Reporter’s Ed 237 priests of the Boston archdiocese Forry recalled, Law came directly to over a period of six decades. Dorchester to survey the ruins, console Law’s 19 years as Boston’s Catholic the parishioners, and offer a pledge to leader was a period of the most awful rebuild. crimes and the cardinal himself was re- “It was an electrifying moment,” Forry sponsible for much of it. He re-assigned later wrote in the Reporter. “The visit clerical child molesters, giving them lasted no more than 30 minutes, and further opportunities to victimize in- there was a sense that this dynamic new nocents and ruin lives. bishop would soon chart a promising Law was never held criminally cul- new course for his flock in the Boston pable for his active role in enabling Archdiocese.” the crimes to continue; instead, he was St. Ambrose did rise from the ashes. disgraced and essentially exiled to live The new Fields Corner church has be- out his days comfortably and without come an important and valued institu- penalty in the Vatican, where he re- tion, just as our remaining parishes and mained one of the most powerful men schools remain vital and valued parts of in his church. our community. For Catholics like this writer, his death The bitter irony of the Law period in presents a tough ethical quandary. Our Boston is that the survival of our faith faith teaches us to forgive those who fail, and church community in Dorchester to resist the human urge to condemn has been realized not because of his and pass judgment, and to pray for the leadership, but in spite of his abject souls of the departed that they may find failure to lead. eternal rest and peace with God in the We hope and expect that Law’s death after-life. will serve as a reminder that we must be Cardinal Sean P. O’Malley, who has always vigilant against a repeat of the worked very hard, if imperfectly, to sordid and chilling past that unfolded prevent further injury and to heal the in our midst. deep wounds left by decades of church- sponsored depravity, embraced that con- In 1984, then-Bishop Bernard Law flict in his reaction to Law’s death, which surveyed the damage at St. Ambrose included another apology to victims. Church in Fields Corner, which was “In the Catholic tradition, the Mass destroyed by fire two nights before of Christian Burial is the moment in Law arrived in Boston to assume his which we all recognize our mortality, duties as leader of the Archdiocese of when we acknowledge that we all strive Boston (Reporter file photo) Page 6 January 2018 BOSTON IRISH Reporter bostonirish.com BIR Travel Report Ireland offers winter-time delights, and, sometimes, snow By Judy Enright the beginning to share my favorite Special to the BIR Irish accommodations, shops, tourist Most of us visit the Emerald Isle when attractions, towns, car rental companies, fields and hillsides are sparkling with restaurants, and pubs? Of course, as brilliant shades of green. So a snowy our readers know, they will find their mantle across the land may seem a bit own favorites as they travel around out of place. But, this is winter and, yes, the country and make scheduled and it does snow in Ireland. unscheduled stops here and there. In “Dubliners,” as James Joyce noted, As a photographer, I love the West “Yes, the newspapers were right: snow of Ireland for its ever-changing light was general all over Ireland. It was and rugged landscape. And, since I am falling on every part of the dark cen- a great fan of Irish sheep, I especially tral plain, on the treeless hills, falling enjoy the West where there are so many softly upon the Bog of Allen and, farther sheep, most of whom don’t realize they westward, softly falling into the dark are supposed to stay in their enclosures. mutinous Shannon waves.” There are escape artists in other parts of Snow in Ireland doesn’t come with the the country too, but in the West it seems intensity or frequency that we experi- to be a given and I love that. Animals ence in New England. Sometimes there are not in the roads now as often as is just enough precipitation – coupled they once were but you do still need to with falling temperatures – to make be very aware when driving. Irish roads and sidewalks icy and dan- ACCOMMODATIONS gerous. But snow also blankets the land The best hotel accommodation I’ve in flakes that glitter like diamonds in experienced in Ireland is Lough Inagh the sun, so it is not entirely unwelcome. Lodge in Recess, Connemara. Every sin- Snow-covered hills behind lovely Lough Inagh Lodge Hotel in Connemara. gle person there is welcoming, goes above Ireland is no less beautiful in winter (D. Broderick photo) months than it is in the other seasons and beyond routine duties to makes you and a trip in the winter can be just as feel like you’ve finally come home. Food enjoyable. is sourced locally when possible and is NEW YEAR very well prepared. Rooms are spotless The New Year brings with it several and beds are very comfortable. We give bits of good news – especially for Ire- them high fives for everything! land’s seals and wilderness lovers in We have also really enjoyed staying at Co. Mayo. The Sandhouse Hotel in Donegal as well The Mayo News reports that last year as at some of the historic properties listed a number of seals were stranded on in Hidden Ireland (hiddenireland.com.) Achill Island. Recently, a group of island When you travel the Causeway Coast residents tried to save a seal pup that in Co. Antrim, Northern Ireland, be sure had washed up on rocks at Keel Beach. you don’t miss Bushmills Inn for fine Despite their best efforts, the pup died dining and outstanding accommodation. but, as a result of those efforts, repre- Favorite B&Bs – and we do travel sentatives from the Seal Rescue Center around and try new places – continue in Courtown, Co. Wexford, plan to visit to be Cahergal Farm in Newmarket- Achill this month to train local residents on-Fergus (very handy to Shannon and in measures designed to help stranded expertly run by the McInerney family) seals survive. and Riverfield House in Doolin where Seal Rescue Ireland is dedicated to res- the witty Caitriona Garrahy is in charge. cuing orphaned, sick, and injured Com- CAR RENTAL mon and Grey seal pups from around I have had cars from Dooley Car Rent- the coast of the Republic. For more als for many years and always request information, see sealirelandrescue.org a four-door Skoda. Dooley’s cars are BALLYCROY NATIONAL PARK clean, in excellent condition, and the The other bit of good news for Mayo Ballycroy National Park in Co. Mayo. Judy Enright photo staff is responsive and gracious, so my and visitors involves the magnificent experience has always been extremely wilderness known as Ballycroy National positive. Enterprise bought the company Park, which has already won Dark Sky last year, so we hope Dooley’s high stan- status from the International Dark Sky dards and excellent customer service Association. will continue. If you’ve visited North Mayo but FOOD haven’t seen this Irish treasure, you’ve As our readers know, Irish food has missed a great place to take a walk or improved hugely over the past 25 years hike, enjoy a homemade lunch, or a or so. Back in the day, pub lunches were delicious dessert at Ginger & Wild Cafe often not much more than dry ham in the Visitors’ Center. Be sure to look and cheese sandwiches. Many pubs for fascinating displays there detailing now serve full meals that are very well Mayo’s history and its whaling and prepared. shark-fishing past. We’ve had delicious meals at McDer- With the transfer of Coillte land in the mott’s Pub in Doolin, Co. Clare; The Nephin Mountains – known as “Wild Grainne Uaile in Newport, and Nevin’s Nephin” - Ballycroy will grow from Newfield Inn in Mulranny, both Co. 11,000 hectares (almost 28,000 acres) Mayo. We’ve also enjoyed Sunday brunch to more than 15,000 hectares (37,065 many times at The Mulranny Park Hotel acres) and become the third largest of and lunch and homemade pastries at the six national parks. The Beehive in Keel on Achill Island. Ballycroy National Park and visitor You’ll surely find your own favorites as center has been open since 2010 and you travel around the country. it’s well worth a visit. ATTRACTIONS TRAD MUSIC There are so many outstanding tourist From Jan. 24-28, Dublin will host attractions all over Ireland that it’s easy TradFest 2018, a five-day music fes- Snow on Co. Galway hilltops. (Judy Enright photo) to find some that match your interests. tival that offers some 200 free events Among my favorites are the Giant’s in various locations around the city to Causeway and the Causeway Coast in showcase traditional and folk music. Northern Ireland, Fota Wildlife Park in Some of the locations include Temple Co. Cork, Cliffs of Moher in Co. Clare, Bar, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, St. Mi- and Kylemore Abbey in Connemara. chan’s Church, Dublin City Hall, St. All are very different but offer visitors Werburgh’s Church, founded in 1178 and an assortment of things to see and do. seldom open to the public, Rathfarnham Be sure to take time to visit the Burren Castle, and more. There will be pub ses- Center in Kilfenora and The Burren Per- sions and special screenings, too. fumery in Clare, as well as the outstand- Trad superstar band Teada will ing museums, historic sites, theatres, perform at Tradfest Gala Night. Chris music venues, adventure companies all Newman and Maire Ni Chathasaigh will over the country. Of course, Dublin and bring their show to the City Hall. And other Irish cities have numerous attrac- Big Country, having recently completed tions that welcome visitors. Be sure to a 30-year anniversary tour, will star in check opening times in the off-season St. Patrick’s Cathedral. as many are closed. Ireland’s traditional music as we know And, don’t forget to take time to enjoy it has been around since the 18th cen- Ireland’s stunning landscape, especially tury and its distinct instruments, such along the Wild Atlantic Way, as well as as the uilleann pipes, and dances are attractions on Ireland’s Ancient East recognized worldwide. route. TradFest attracts more than 25,000 We hope some of our Irish favorites visitors, with a third of those coming will become some of yours when you from America, the UK, and Europe. For visit this beautiful country. Enjoy the more information, see tradfest.ie trip whenever you go and have a healthy FAVORITES Boardwalk from Visitors’ Center at Ballycroy National Park in Co. Mayo. and happy New Year. Is there a better time of year than Judy Enright photo bostonirish.com January 2018 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 7 BIR Travel Report Destination: Southeast Ireland Featuring two nights at Dunbrody House, Wexford, and a chat with its master chef Kevin Dundon

By Ed Forry BIR Publisher I visited Ireland’s south- east coast late last sum- mer, a trip that, for me, was truly an eye-opener. Until last year, most of my visits to Ireland were focused on Dublin, Gal- way, and Sligo, places that several cousins and family friends call home. They have all been great adven- tures, and after nearly a dozen such excursions, I even considered myself a bit of an authority about Irish vacations. But, ex- cept for a brief afternoon ride to Glendalough in Co. Wicklow 25 years ago, much of the east and The Dunbrody House in Arthurstown, Co. Wexford, above, is located on Ireland’s south coast on the River Barrow, near New Ross, south coasts remained and just north of the Hook Peninsula and its historic lighthouse, an easy 75 mile drive from Dublin or Cork. The House offers a unexplored for me. cuisine prepared by owner and resident chef Kevin Dundon, at right below. Guests enjoy breakfast and dinner in a luxurious Last year, I learned dining room, or lighter fare in the the champagne bar, left below. Dundon and his wife Catherine purchased and restored the about Ireland’s Blue Book, property 21 years ago, and offer guests fine food and a friendly, relaxed service combined with luxury accommodation all within a specialized marketing the centuries-old walls of this beautiful Georgian property. Dunbrody photos program for a collection of more than 36 Irish country house hotels, manor houses, castles, and restaurants. “Located throughout the island of Ireland these charming and stylish hideaways are the perfect choice for your holiday vacation in Ireland,” the brochure said. “They are also ideal for a midweek or weekend break and those seeking a romantic getaway. “Activities vary from golf, fishing, spas and cookery schools or just relaxing in warm and com- fortable surroundings.” Through the Blue Book, I made arrangements to spend some time in two of the properties in Wexford and Cork. “I love Ireland and every that job and return home. but they really hadn’t in You have an elegant the next. And once you get In my first-ever visit spot has something spe- “I said I’d only come the country, and I thought, dining room here, and a to the management level to Wexford, I spent two cial, whether it’s Galway, back for one of three oh, we could do this if we mini-brewery with your in a kitchen, at sous chef marvelous days at the the wild Atlantic way, to things: One is the execu- want to do it. own brand of beer. And I level, you should spend Dunbrody House, a small Westport. I love Westport. tive chef job at Dromoland We looked at a number read that some guests come two to three years in the luxury hotel near Presi- But what I think we have Castle; or the Shelbourne of houses and we came here to learn how to cook? place just to show stabil- dent Kennedy’s ances- here is kind of the un- Hotel; or my own country across this house down “The cooking school ity, because the first year tral hometown of New tapped part of Ireland. house.T he Shelbourne in Dunbrody, so we made opened in 2000. Maxi- you’re just learning, the Ross, which is located on The scenery around here was looking for an execu- an offer, packed up every- mum of ten people, one second year you’re intro- Ireland′s south coast on is something else. It’s just tive chef, so I got the job. thing, and sold the house on one. You get a lot out ducing your concepts and the Hook Peninsula. like when I first came here That was back in ’94, at and moved down here. of it because we hold your ideas into the place and Built in the 1830s, the and played down on the age 27. At that point, I You moved from Dublin hand throughout it. It’s the third year you’re reap- Dunbrody is an elegant lawn, and I could hear had had three jobs.” to Wexford and opened a one- three- and five-day ing the benefit of the work Georgian-style house birds. It’s a little piece of So you were back home new venture? courses. We just finished you’ve done the previous with Irish oak floors, heaven.” in Dublin, and still a very “When we opened Dun- a master class of five days, two years. pitched pine window shut- You have made a great young man at 27 in such brody, with the restaurant and that one we do with “And then it’s time to ters, high ceilings, and reputation for your cook- a top position? and six bedrooms, and a maximum of 7 people in move on and get your own twinkling chandeliers. ing skills. What’s your “I spent two years in the then that summer we had the course. It’s a lot more place. When you get to And great food. For the background? Shelbourne, which was 12 bedrooms. In 1999 we intense, and five of the head chef level you should past 21 years, it has been “I was originally from fantastic because they got added more, we now have seven were Americans. stay longer. But the more owned and operated by Dublin but we’re down me into the whole Irish 22 bedrooms in the house “I went to college for 3 successful you become, the master chef Kevin Dun- here for 21 years. I went mythology end and I got here. It was a private years to study culinary less cooking you do, with don and his wife Cath- to college in Dublin then to know all the journal- house built by the Chich- arts and in Canada I did meeting people coming erine, who themselves I worked in some Dublin ists and who to buy food ester Clark family as a my masters. It’s like ev- in, and with marketing live on the property that restaurants, then I got a from, different suppliers. hunting lodge. They were erything you do; it’s work- and executive committee overlooks the water. scholarship to go to Swit- We had bought a house from Belfast. In1906, they ing with the right people meetings, you spend less Chef Dundon has zerland. I went to Canada in Dublin and I had one turned the house around. and extracting what’s and less time. So when we gained a reputation as just for a year and I ended of the best jobs around. It was seven generations good and bad. We have moved down here, I got one of Ireland’s leading up spending seven and a Catherine was a manager, of the Chichester Clark our own kitchen gardens. back to doing what I love.” young “celebrity chefs.” half years in Canada.” she had a really good job, family and then we bought I would say 90 percent of About the Dunbrody He’s the author of several Where did you work in and we had no children it. The family built out the the food we serve here is It features 22 bedrooms, best-selling cookbooks, Canada? and this beautiful house road from here to Wex- grown or produced within including suites and ju- and hosts his own TV “It’s now the Fairmont in Ballsbridge in Dublin. ford during the famine. ten miles of the house. nior suites. All major credit programs across Ireland. Hotel just outside of Banff, We had no worries; we They owned 14,000 acres The flavor is so brilliant cards accepted. French/ In recent years, he has be- in the Canadian Rockies. could do whatever we between Antrim & here.” because it’s literally com- German spoken; USA Res- come popular in America I became executive chef wanted to do whenever Your American fans are ing out of the ground at ervations Toll Free: 800- for his appearances on there at the age of 22. It’s we wanted to. familiar with you from lunchtime and onto your 323-5463 Email: usa@ PBS, “Kevin Dundon’s two 5-star hotels with 7 “One day I was in the your television work on plate at night. The brew- irelandsbluebook.com. Modern Irish Foods.” restaurants and banquet Shelbourne and it was a the Food Channel and ery also serves seven or Bed & Breakfast prices I stayed in the Dun- for 800 people. It was a rough day; you know how on PBS. eight beers.” per person: $150-235 low brody for two nights, and great experience. I had those rough days work? “I never really went af- What advice would you season; $160- 299 high after dinner one evening, met my wife Catherine I remember I left after ter the TV stuff. A travel give to someone wanting a season. Single supplement Chef Dundon sat down when I was 17 here in Ire- lunch service and walked show came here to do a career in the kitchen? $30 on standard dou- in the lounge for a BIR land. We stayed in touch along St. Stephens Green piece on Dunbrody House “I recommend that when ble rooms, seasonal din- interview. and when we got caught just to clear my head and they asked me if I you’re starting out you ner menu $79; mid-week You have a wonderful up we got together again. before dinner service. I would step into the house shouldn’t really work for seasonal menu $65. Ser- place here, Kevin, and the I got her to move over to walked by a real estate and do a cooking segment more than one year under vice charge at your own food is delicious. I know Canada and she always agent’s window and they with them. From that they one chef; you should move discretion. Weekend pack- you’re a Dublin native. wanted to get me home.” had all these large country offered me my own TV onto the next, and you ages 2 B&B from $300 per How do you come to be It must have been dif- houses for sale. Prices in show. That’s really how have his or her knowledge person; midweek packages here in Wexford? ficult for you to give up Dublin had started to rise it happened.” in your head, and go on to from $175. Page 8 January 2018 BOSTON IRISH Reporter bostonirish.com The illusive search for happiness in ‘Three Sisters’

By R. J. Donovan Q. How does the Tracy Letts adapta- Special to the BIR tion vary from Chekhov’s original script? Apollinaire Theatre Company kicks Is the story still set in 1900? off the New Year with a production A. It’s still set in 1900. I think the of Chekhov’s “Three Sisters,” as adapted most noticeable thing for audiences – for by Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright people who have read the play – is that Tracy Letts. Directed by Danielle Fau- it’s very condensed . . . People say things teux Jacques, performances run through more simply. Jan. 21 at Chelsea Theatre Works. Q. You play Irina, the youngest of the In this dark human comedy, the Prozo- sisters. One reviewer noted that Letts’s rov sisters – Olga, Maria and Irina – are vision of Irina is that she’s more self- stuck in a provincial Russian outpost aware than usual “when it comes to her after the death of their father, a general figuring out that the sisters’ collective in the Czar’s army. problem is not the elusiveness of hap- They dream of happier times and long piness, but their inability to embrace to return to the cosmopolitan Moscow of fully anything other than its absence.” their childhood, but desire clashes with A. In everything that Irina does, she reality as they search for love, beauty, seems to have a goal of what happiness and meaning in their lives. would be. If she would just make it to The award-winning Letts is the au- Moscow, she’d be happy. If she would thor of the plays “August: Osage Coun- work, she would be happy. If she ty,” “Superior Donuts,” and “Killer Joe.” would meet a certain man, she would At Apollinaire, Siobhan Carroll be happy. Bizarrely enough, there are plays Irina, the youngest sister. A men around. And she does get a job . 2016 graduate of Boston University’s . . She always has this outward projec- acting program, Siobhan grew up in tion [focusing on] that object that would Cleveland. Her parents emigrated to make happiness achievable. Then that the states from Dublin in 1976. (Mom object isn’t necessarily achievable, so is from Clontraf, Dad from Artane.) Her she shuts off any possibilities of being father still knows Dublin so intimately happy otherwise. that when Siobhan was visiting there by Q. The production at Apollinaire takes herself, he was able to guide her around place in multiple locations within the the city streets by phone. theater. How will that work? Siobhan’s local stage credits in- A. The audience will move between clude: “Next To Normal” and “Midsum- acts. We’re using three spaces . . . It’s nice, mer Night’s Dream” at Arts After Hours, a really cool, intimate feeling. Anyone and “Romeo and Juliet” and “The Scarlet who’s been in that building knows that Letter” at Classic Repertory Company. the rooms feel kind of appropriate for She is currently an intern at Under- a Chekhov play. It’s kind of like sitting ground Railway Theater Company and in their house with the characters while assistant directed Central Square The- the scenes unfold. ater’s production of “A Christmas Carol.” Q. What first drew you to the arts? We spoke during rehearsals for “Three A. I got into theater when I was around Sisters.” Here’s a condensed look at our 13. There’s quite a theater scene in (Top to bottom) Siobhan Carroll, Deniz Khateri and Becca A. Lewis in Apol- conversation. (Continued on next page) linaire Theatre’s “Three Sisters.” Danielle Fauteux Jacques photo

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Now Hiring Experienced RN’s, LPN’s and CNA’s. Please email resume to: [email protected] www.CurtinHomeCare.com bostonirish.com January 2018 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 9 The illusive search for happiness in ‘Three Sisters’ Cleveland, surprisingly enough. There’s one of those things, especially because a lot of opportunity for kids to take class- they have accents – people constantly es and be a part of shows, particularly remind you that your family is Irish . . in musicals. There’s a great performing . I grew up in Cleveland where people arts center – The Beck Center for the aren’t adept at saying or knowing the Arts – near my house in Lakewood Ohio name Siobhan . . . I don’t think I’ve ever . . . It was a very welcoming community. gone into an audition in Ohio where I Q. Do you recall your first time on stage? didn’t have to begin by explaining my A. My first time was kind of scarring name and why it looks like that . . . .My (Laughing). I was brought to audition brother’s name is Jason. He was born for “Annie” when I was five, and I just in Ireland. Ironically enough, he got a didn’t understand what auditions were. very American name and I got a very I think I was a pretty outgoing child, but Irish name. for some reason the thought of singing Q. Were you blessed with any special in front of people on stage terrified me, mentors as you’ve come along in the arts? so I cried and I left. I made my Mom A. I had an acting teacher, Mitchell take me home. Fields … He probably encouraged me Q. What kind of theater makes a con- the most out of anybody I know to be an nection with you? actor. The first thing he ever gave me to A. The examples that are coming to work on was an Irina monologue (from mind oddly are in Ireland and involve “The Three Sisters”). It’s a little cool Irish plays. I went to the Becket Fes- and crazy to be coming back to it in that tival in Enniskillen. I think it was for way . . . When I got the role, he was the their 2015 season, and that was won- very first one I sent a Facebook message derful . . . I saw this French company, to – it’s like,” It’s happening!!!” Theatre NoNo’s, production of “Waiting R. J. Donovan is Editor and Publisher For Godot” in French, and that was one of onstageboston.com. of the best things I’ve ever seen. ••• Q. With your folks born in Ireland, “Three Sisters,” Apollinaire Theatre at would you say you come from a very Chelsea Theatre Works, 189 Winnisim- traditional Irish home? met St., Chelsea. Through Jan. 21. Info Siobhan Carroll plays Irina in Apollinaire Theatre’s production of “Three A. I should be careful. They would at 617-887-2336 or apollinairetheatre. Sisters.” laugh at me so much if I made them sound com. too Irish. I mean they just are Irish. It’s Remembering the Grandmothers At left, a passerby moves past a mural in East Boston that is meant to pay tribute to grandmothers of East Boston from the early twentieth century up through the present, many of whom immigrated to the US. Murals celebrating immigrants are cropping up across Boston’s neighborhoods as part of the national “To Immigrants With Love” campaign. Associated Press photo

LIVE IN CONCERT

LOWELL, MA TICKETS AVAILABLE AT Lowell Memorial Auditorium April 5 Page 10 January 2018 BOSTON IRISH Reporter bostonirish.com ‘Live at the Druid’ – a CD that captures the experience of a session – exquisitely

By Sean Smith Special to the BIR If an Irish music session sticks around long enough, it usually develops a core of regulars who invest time and energy in making the session happen – and, in the process, give it a personality all its own. For some years now, the Druid Pub in Cambridge has been a go-to place for Irish music lovers on Tuesday nights (and Saturday afternoons as well). Its sessions attract not only a loyal local following, but also out-of-towners who happen to be in the area and know where to go for tunes and conviviality. So they squeeze into the corner “snug” located immediately to the right of the front door, with a view onto Cambridge Street, and join in the merriment. Now, this atmosphere of music and fellowship has been captured on a CD released during the past year. “Live at the Druid” is the work of several devoted session regulars and other mainstays, who see the recording project as having short-term value – proceeds from album sales support several local charitable causes – and potential historical sig- nificance, as a snapshot of Irish music styles in 21st-century Boston. As participants and organizers note, “Live at the Druid” is also a portrait of a community that preserves, promotes, and supports the music tradition. At The “Live at the Druid” CD features many regulars from the pub’s popular weekly sessions. Sean Smith photo a time when Irish music performances take place on stages large and small throughout the world, and can be viewed setter: “As with many of the tracks,” the on TV screens, computer monitors, and liner notes explain, “this set was decided smart phones, sessions like those at on the spot, and captures the spontaneity the Druid are a reminder of the music’s and spirit of the moment.” Fiddlers Seán social aspect – as a focus for gatherings Clohessy, George Keith, and Tina Lech, of friends and acquaintances who play along with Lech’s husband, Ted Davis, for the fun of it. on tenor banjo, roar through a medley “It’s such a great thing to have at of the reels “Blackberry Blossom” and the pub – people here get into it, and it “Farewell to Connaught,” with energetic lifts their spirits,” says Druid general backing from guitarist Owen Marshall manager John Blake, a Co. Clare native. (a onetime Boston-area resident now “You see so many different instruments, living in Maine, and a member of The so many approaches to the music at Press Gang). these sessions, but they play so very Elsewhere, Galway native Helena well together and are good friends. So Delaney joins Clohessy (originally from many of those who show up, they’ve got Limerick) and Marshall for a pair of ex- full-time jobs, some of them families as quisitely delivered jigs (“Dancing Eyes/ well, and they play purely out of their Fly in the Porter”). Lech and Davis, who love of the music. regularly host the Tuesday night ses- “I’m very glad that we were able to sion, offer up two other jigs, “Tar Road capture something of what it’s like here to Sligo” and “My Mind Will Never Be when the music’s on.” Easy,” as a tribute to late, much-beloved Limerick-born fiddler Seán Clohessy, a Druid bartender Paul Conneely. For a chief organizer of the recording project, change of pace, Keith, Lech, Davis, and is equally praiseworthy of Blake, Druid Clohessy nimbly make their way through owner Michael (Mikey) Queally, and the the hornpipes “Galway Bay” and “Harp pub staff for their long-time advocacy of and Shamrock,” Limerickian John Coyne the session. adding his bouzouki to Marshall’s guitar. “Mikey and the lads come from a back- A hallmark of Boston’s Irish music ground where they’re familiar with the community is its encouragement of music, and they really help make the young musicians, and “Live at the Druid” session what it is,” says Clohessy. “The spotlights this, too: Jimmy Noonan Druid has a reputation far and wide for (flute) is joined by his flutist son Seamus hospitality, and that’s what I found the (12 years old at the time) on the reel first time I came, back when the session medley “Mulvihill’s/Coalminer’s/Abbey was on Friday nights. Right from the Reel,” along with Lech, Davis, Keith, start, it was a lot of fun: good ‘crack,’ Clohessy, and Coyne. Coyne, meanwhile, good energy and a good crowd.” accompanies his son Rory (then 11), an you belong.” dlers Nathan Gourley and Laura Fedder- The 19-track album, originally re- accomplished accordionist, and Seamus Coyne contributes two of the songs sen, step-dancer Kieran Jordan, Frank corded at the pub in November of on a trio of reels (“New Policeman/The on “Live at the Druid”: the Frank Fahy Woulfe on concertina, Martin Langer on 2016, features 19 musicians in various Drunken Landlady/Road to Garrison”), composition “My Own Dear Galway Bay” bouzouki, Kathleen Conneely on whistle, subsections – solos, duets, trios, quar- earning an enthusiastic response from and John Spillane’s “Magic Nights in as well as Dylan Foley (fiddle) and Josh tets, quintets and sextets – playing 15 the audience. the Lobby Bar,” which – appropriately Dukes (guitar), who both recorded the instrumental sets and four songs. Their “Rory’s become a fixture there – he enough – muses on the memories that proceedings – Dukes also did the mixing. ranks include Irish ex-pats, Americans doesn’t know how lucky he is,” says listening to a musician or singer in a “Dylan and Josh don’t live in Boston, of Irish ancestry, and other Americans Coyne. “It’s such a comfortable place, pub can evoke (“Where once you have but they’ve played at the Druid lots of whose only claim to Irishness is through and that’s how it’s always been, from been you can go back again/you can go times,” says Clohessy. “Besides being the music. the moment I walked in: The warmth, anytime, you can go anytime”). fantastic musicians, they’re very well- The opening selection is an apt scene- the music just hits you and you feel like Ronan Quinn, a Miltown Malbay na- versed in recording technology, and they tive, sings the other two: James Thorn- have a good sense of the space and the ton’s “When You Were Sweet Sixteen” vibe at the session. So we just felt that and “Blue Green Bangle,” a Johnny they were in a good position to capture the Mulhern song popularized by Sean magic – and to play a part in it as well.” Tyrell, among others. Coyne feels that “Live at the Druid” Handmade since 1925 “One of the great things about the also has value as an artifact of Irish Druid session is folks feel comfortable music in Boston. singing just about anything,” says Clo- “I think it speaks to Boston’s distinc- hessy. “We do get the ‘pure drop’ tradi- tive sound in terms of the styles – Clare, tional songs, of course, but it’s perfectly Limerick, Galway, and so on – and rep- OK to sing something that’s outside the ertoire that people play. So you can point tradition. And songs like ‘Sweet Sixteen’ it to and say, ‘When you go there, that’s or ‘Galway Bay’ are quite well-known what you’ll hear.’ What’s also important and popular in session crowds, so they about the CD is that you don’t hear this fit in just fine.” Boston sound in a recording studio, but in Adds Coyne: “The sing-along culture the context of a warm, welcoming place is very strong at sessions, whether it’s that has been so important to the Irish ‘Galway Bay,’ or rugby songs or some- music community.” thing by [English pop group] Oasis. “Live at the Druid” can be purchased This is another reason why the Druid at The Druid Pub, 1357 Cambridge St., is such a great place to play, because Cambridge, or at thedruidpub.band- people get that.” camp.com. Other musicians appearing are fid- bostonirish.com January 2018 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 11 The ‘Keltic Kids’ are now history; ‘Celtic Roots’ says it much better (Continued from page 1) West Bend Music in Den- nis Port, which provides lessons for all ages in several different kinds of music. March formed the band to get the youngsters to see music as a means of personal growth and fellowship – rather than an activity defined only by lesson and practice schedules. “I didn’t start out with the idea that they’d be a performance band,” said March, who expresses gratitude to the Keltic Kids/Celtic Roots families for their support. “I just wanted them to look at music as something they could enjoy with peers, and not simply regard it as an obligation. It was really up to them where this was all going to lead.” Some of the Celtic Roots members, like Jonathan and Bailey, were familiar with Irish or other Celtic music, but others had had little or no exposure. So at the outset, March took things slow and easy, having them work on easy-to-learn melodies Celtic Roots performing at Summer BCMFest in Harvard Square. They’ll be appearing at BCMFest later this month. like “Camptown Races.” Sean Smith photo As they progressed, he began to fill their rep- how music can be a life- than is usually the one taken me lots of places Jonathan, who avers that Celtic Roots will be ertoire with Irish tunes long love for many adults. who handles the stage pat- – I wouldn’t have gone getting involved in Irish among the performers at – beginner-level at first, Some make a career out ter at gigs, and he clearly to Ireland if not for the music is “one of the best BCMFest, which takes then of increasing degree of it, others play just for has the tools for it (such as music – and helped me things I’ve ever done.” place in Harvard Square of difficulty – and to ar- fun, but music is a part employing the canonical meet new people.” “I love it for the stuff Jan. 18-21; see passim. range these in sets. Nowa- of who they are. I’m very “How’s everyone doing?” “If you play enough you can do with it,” he org/bcmfest for informa- days, each member of the proud of what the group line) – but his band mates tunes, you can take dif- added. “There’s just so tion. group has an opportunity has achieved, and how good-naturedly chide him ferent parts from them, much that’s wonderful – to share with the others a they’ve now come to ‘own’ with anecdotes of jokes or put them together, and even crazy – about it, and tune he or she has learned. the music they play.” quips gone wrong. it’s like you wrote it,” said I love it.” “They’ve also taken on a On one afternoon, Celtic Jonathan shrugs it off lot more leadership of the Roots gathered in West with the aplomb of a show arrangements: ‘Hey, why Bend Music for a re- business veteran. “Hey,” don’t end with this chord hearsal, going over some he said with a smile, “ev- Experience the Emerald Isle instead of that one?’” said new and more recent ad- eryone learns by making March. ditions to their repertoire. mistakes.” It’s worth noting the March offered some direc- Most of all, the Celtic without leaving the States! important experiences tion and guidance, and Roots gang likes to talk outside Celtic Roots that played along with them, about what Irish/Celtic have contributed to its but there was plenty of music means to them, members’ development, discussion and back-and- and the place it holds in such as getting instruc- forth among the members, their lives. tion from other accom- too. Once they were in “I started out playing plished musicians like the midst of playing a set classical violin before Laurel Martin, Sean Clo- of tunes, you could hear I became interested in hessy, Liz Carroll, and the progress of five years. Irish fiddle,” said Ashley. Kathleen Conneely, or at- Better tonality. Less bum “A while back, I played tending the music school notes. Smoother rhythm. classical for the first time run by Boston’s Com- And an overall sense of in quite a while, and I haltas Ceoltóirí Éireann confidence and purpose- thought, ‘Wow, this is why branch. Ashley, Gavin, fulness. I love Irish music.’ Irish Fern, Jonathan, and Bai- Spend some time chat- music has its own disci- ley all have competed in ting with the Celtic Roots pline, but at the same time the Mid-Atlantic Fleadh members, and it’s quite there’s a freedom to it that Cheoil – individually, in plain they do in fact “own” you can really enjoy. Irish various combinations, the music, as March noted. music also has a sense of or as part of the Boston They will talk enthusiasti- community that is very Comhaltas School youth cally about favorite tunes, strong – I think about all ensemble – and finished major musical influences the cool, fun people I’ve at or near the top, in some and formative experienc- met through the music.” cases going on to the All- es, like attending a tradi- “I just think it’s interest- Ireland Fleadh. tional music-focused camp ing what you can do with These kinds of experi- or taking part in a fleadh. this music,” said Fern. “I Merry Ploughboys ences, March said, serve And because they have a feel like it’s something to broaden the group’s per- history, and a perspective I have that I can share spective on Irish tradition, on things, they can kid with others but also keep SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2018 and bring them in contact with one another. At one for myself, for my own with the wider Irish music point in the conversation, enjoyment.” community. the topic shifted to group Added Bailey, “It’s just 8:00PM “What they’ve seen is dynamics and roles. Jona- so much fun, and it’s News bits from Comhaltas Tickets: The Boston Branch Toe Tappers; All are wel- Watertown at 7:30 p.m. Balcony Seating: $25.00 of Comhaltas (The Reyn- come. Email: cceboston@ Beginners always wel- olds-Hanafin-Cooley verizon.net come. Email: sallyhar- Branch) will kick off the Comhaltas’ s February [email protected] Table Seating: $30.00 New Year hosting a Sei- dates are the 11th and Boston Comhaltas Mu- siun / Ceili on Sun., Jan. the 25th. Doors open at sic School: Spring se- Add a Pre-Show Dinner for only $30 more! 14 at the Canadian-Amer- 1:30 p.m. on Feb. 25th mester begins on Sat., ican Hall, 202 Arlington for a slow session (free Jan. 20, at a new loca- Street, Watertown from admittance). Aspiring tion: St. Joseph Prep. Mechanics Hall 3 to 7 p.m. Admission musicians are invited (formerly Mt. St. Joseph $10. Live Irish Tradi- to attend. Comhaltas Academy) 617 Cambridge 321 Main Street, Worcester, MA tional Music under the Set / Ceili Dance Work- Street, Brighton. More direction of Tara Lynch, shop is held on Tuesday info and Registration de- 508-752-0888 • www.mechanicshall.org branch chairperson. Mu- evenings at the Cana- tails: cceboston.org sicians, Set Dancers, and dian-American Hall in Page 12 January 2018 BOSTON IRISH Reporter bostonirish.com before Robinson spearheads the transition into “Mick guitar work on “Master Kilby.” CD Reviews O’Connor’s,” Marshall doubling up on guitar; then it’s A gentle “Carolan’s Receipt” closes out the CD, and into the driving A-dorian “Jolly Tinker,” Araki return- though cliché it may be to say that the end feels too By Sean Smith ing on flute (meanwhile, listen how Marshall eases up soon, it is certainly the case here. The fourth album Special to the BIR a bit on the fourth part and works in chord variations), can’t come soon enough. [pressgangmusic.com] For this month’s column, we’re going to take a look and finishing up with the effusive “Fox on the Town” Emerald Rae & Somer O’Brien, “Artifact” • Rae, at some recent recordings by Celtic artists with Mas- by Richard Dwyer. a Gloucester native, has been a part of the Greater Bos- sachusetts and New England ties. A jig set has fiddle and flute taking the lead on the ton folk music scene since her teens, and in a number The Press Gang, “Fortune It May Smile” • Formed darting “McIntyre’s,” Stevens’ concertina supplying of incarnations: a US Scottish Fiddle Champion with in 2009 amidst the proliferating Portland, Me., folk a soft drone at the end until he launches into “I Was a special love for the Cape Breton tradition; a mem- music scene, The Press Gang had been doing just fine Born for Sport,” with its G/E-minor back-and-forth; ber of the Irish/American “alt-trad” band Annalivia; a as a trio, centered around the power and artistry of they conclude with “I Ne’er Shall Wean Her.” practitioner of Cape Breton and Irish dance; and a solo Christian “Junior” Stevens’ accordion and concertina Other instrumental highlights include “Pearl performer whose interests have extended to songwriting and Alden Robinson’s fiddle, with the intrepid back- O’Shaughnessy’s Barndance,” driven by Stevens’ ac- and exploration of old-timey/Americana. ing of Owen Marshall on guitar and bouzouki. Their cordion and Marshall’s express-train guitar, seguing O’Brien, who first two albums firmly established them as one of the seamlessly into the reel “Kiss the Maid Behind the c o m e s f r o m best traditional Irish ensembles to emerge from New Barrel,” played at ridiculously fast pace yet with full Pennsylvania England in the past decade or so. control; a similarly energetic assortment of polkas – and lives in Then, a cou- the second of which has the arresting alternate title of Gloucester, has ple of years ago, “Captain Moonlight’s Army” – and another of slides; and a similarly ex- H a n z A r a k i a comely waltz by Kerry guitarist Matt Griffin, “Válsa tensive curricu- moved to Port- an tSean Bhaile,” that features a graceful Robinson- lum vitae, with land from the Marshall duet at the start. a background West Coast and On the three song tracks, Araki proves he is at least as a classical b r o u g h t n o t as expressive a singer as he is a musician. His is a pianist but also only his mas- sweet-toned, sensitive yet deceptively powerful voice, as an accordi- terful flute and which he utilizes judiciously, such as the crescendos on onist whose whistle-playing, the traditional soldier-leaves-sweetheart ballad “Banks repertoire en- but also his fine of the Nile,” heightening the inherent drama without compasses jazz, singing voice overdoing it; or the way he swells the held notes in Afro-Latin and to the group. “Master Kilby,” one of the more wistful romantic songs European mu- With “Fortune in the British Isles tradition (associated with the leg- sic. It May Smile,” endary Nic Jones). And he’s strident but sympathetic Hence, “Artifact” has a delightful polyglot quality to The Press Gang is as instrumentally robust as ever, and on “Johnny Miner,” a commentary on the bitterness it: You can almost visualize Rae and O’Brien jamming now they have an outstanding vocal presence to boot. felt by coal miners about the demise of their profes- on a Halifax pier one minute, and in the next perform- The band’s flair for putting together well-structured sion, from the pen of Northern English working-class ing in a little village square somewhere within sight of instrumental sets is front and center on the first songwriter Ed Pickford. the Pyrenees, or doing a leisurely set in a Neapolitan track, a quartet of reels: Araki, on whistle, and Mar- Araki’s fellow Press Gangers, meanwhile, support café. Yet for all the moveable-feast vibe, there is noth- shall (bouzouki) blaze along on “Seán Sa Ceo” with his singing to great effect, such as Stevens’ soft piano ing unpolished or amateur about their sound. The Stevens adding concertina the second time through, backing on “Banks of the Nile” and Marshall’s lovely command of instrument each demonstrates enables them to confidently adopt, individually or together, the distinguishing characteristics of whatever musical realm to which they travel. In this way, they can take on a pair of contemporary- style Irish slip jigs, “Soggy’s” (by Sean Og Graham of COME VISIT ANY Beoga) and Michael McGoldrick’s “Farewell to Whalley Range,” and then proceed to the hot-blooded gypsy jazz of “Passion,” written by Italian-born musette player Tony Mureña and composer Joseph Colombo. Or a Scottish/Cape Breton medley (“She’s Sweetest When She’s Naked/Fiddler Play the Light Strathspey/Tim SOMERS PUBS Horton’s/Wooden Whale/But Why Is the Rum Gone?” – the latter written by Boston-area fiddler Rachel Reeds) LOCATION FOR QUALITY FOOD, on one track, and on another wind their way through a Scandinavian/Breton mix (“Joker’s Pulska”). Or consider another study in contrasts: On one track HOSPITALITY & LIVE MUSIC is a medley that begins with the solemn “Nathaniel Gow’s Lament for the Death of His Brother” and fires through Phil Cunningham’s 5/4 gem “Leire’s Trip To 7 NIGHTS A WEEK! Cozac,” the traditional “Dark Night of Tomaidh” and “Fletch Taylor,” an original by her former Annalivia col- league Flynn Cohen; and on another is the spellbinding “Saros,” a composition of Stelios Petrakis, a musician and instrument maker from Crete, with its multiple musical influences from East and West – O’Brien’s ac- cordion lends a pulsating undercurrent as Rae’s fiddle churns through the multiple key changes. “Artifact” is an intersection where folk traditions and “high-art” music nestle comfortably, and unironi- cally, in the capable hands of two top-flight musicians who display equally excellent chemistry, as well as an abiding sense of adventure and joviality. And by the way, Rae is already at work on her next 77 Broad St. 11 Marshall St. project, recording an album of 10 original songs. [em- Boston, MA 02109 Boston, MA 02108 eraldrae.com] 25 Union St. 617.338.5656 617.367.0055 Fellswater, “Skipping Stones” • Originally formed Boston, MA 02108 mrdooleys.com greendragonboston.com as a quartet a decade ago, Massachusetts-based Fells- 617.742.2121 water has in the past few years undergone a significant hennessysboston.com change to its roster. Co-founders Elizabeth Ketudat (fiddle), Sarah MacConduibh (flute, whistle, fife) and Jim MacConduibh (acoustic bass, bouzouki, guitar) welcomed Andrew McIntosh (Scottish small pipes, border pipes) – who succeeded original piper Matt Phelps – along with percussionist Kyle Forsthoff and husband-wife vocal duo Chris and Diane Meyers (Chris also plays guitar and octave man- dolin). Besides its Fellswater tenure, the band’s collec- tive background, 33 Union St. 108 Blackstone St. 9 Depot Ct. experience and Boston, MA 02108 Boston, MA 02109 Cohasset, MA 02025 influences include 617.263.7771 617.742.2090 781.383.3366 classical, contem- paddyos.com durtynellysboston.com mrdooleyscohasset.com porary folk/folk- rock and fife-and- drum corps. “ S k i p p i n g Stones” is Fellswa- ter’s first release with this expanded line-up, its third overall. The band has displayed a certain deliberateness in its approach to Celtic music – Scottish, Irish and Breton traditions among them – marked by meticulously arranged in- strumental sets. Four on “Skipping Stones” stand out in particular, presenting tunes by leading latter-day SOMERSPUBS.COM Scottish musicians like Angus Grant, Adam Sutherland, John McCusker, and the late Gordon Duncan. Among these are the opening track (“Strichen Gala/ Road to Aikey Brae/Jig Ahoy”); a medley that includes Grant’s twisty-turny “Two-Fifty to Vigo” and “The Fourth Floor,” a characteristically intricate Duncan piece with all kinds of rhythmic mayhem; and sets featuring McCusker’s “Leaving Friday Harbour,” and (Continued next page) bostonirish.com January 2018 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 13 THE BIR’S ARTS CALENDAR OF IRISH/CELTIC EVENTS January 2018 The BCMFest Night- cap concert, “From Spark to Flame,” will be devoted to the stories that define the lives of musicians and singers, according to festival organizers. The concert, which takes place on Jan. 21 at 7 p.m. in The Sinclair (52 Church St. in Harvard Square), is the closing event for BCMFest (Boston Celtic Music Fest), celebrating its 15th anniversary with a four-day feast of music, song and dance that be- gins January 18. A musician’s inspira- tion can come in many forms, say BCMFest or- ganizers: family legacies; invaluable advice and guidance from a valued friend or mentor in the music community; a spe- cial time evoked through the melody of a jig or reel, or the verses of a song. At the BCMFest Nightcap, performers will share the songs and tunes that hold special meaning for them and talk about the people and experiences that pro- vided the spark to light their musical flame. The concert will be an evening of fond memories and fine music, offering an insight Pumpkin Bread will be among the acts in “From Spark to Flame,” the Nightcap concert for this year’s BCMFest. into the talent, commit- ment and passion found writer (a past winner of Passim, music school, art- Reservations are advised, Theater on Feb. 1 at 7:30 ing – precise and polished in Boston’s Celtic music the Boston Folk Festi- ist grants and outreach and can be obtained at ti- p.m. For two decades, the arrangements yet full of community. val Songwriting Contest) initiatives. nyurl.com/ notlobtickets. quintet has been widely passion and power. The Among the Nightcap whose words and music For updates, ticket For more information, praised and respected for event is presented by performers are: have been greatly influ- information and other phone 978-226-8862 or e- its layered, harmonically World Music/CRASHarts Pumpkin Bread– enced and inspired by details about BCMFest mail notlobreservations@ sophisticated, and quite – go to worldmusic.org Conor Hearn (guitar), the folk ballad tradition 2018, see passim.org/ gmail.com. modern treatment of Irish or call 617-876-4275 for Maura Shawn Scanlin of America and Europe, bcmfest. • Super-group Lunasa traditional music, marked tickets. (fiddle), Steven Manwar- and sung with a voice that Other Irish/Celtic music comes to the Somerville by tight – but not suffocat- ing (mandolin), Aidan has been praised as “pure events taking place over Scrimgeour (accordion), and sweet.” the next few weeks in and Jackson Clawson Cape Breton Show- Greater Boston: (piano) play original folk case – Fiddlers Rachel • On Jan. 21, notloB music flavored with Celtic Reeds and Jake Brillhart music will present Nic fiddling, spirited impro- will lead a tribute to Cape Gareiss in “Solo Square visations, and relentless Breton’s distinctive music Dance,” his one-person groove. With songs that tradition, which has a long percussive dance show range from pensive and history in the Boston area that commemorates the heartfelt to driving and that continues to this day. 80th anniversary of the playful, the band draws Neil Pearlman – An Irish Dance Halls Act, its strength not only from innovative musician and which banned citizens keen musicianship but its creator of the “TradCafe” from dancing in homes. camaraderie and close- podcast –music and con- Renowned for his joie-de- knit friendship. versation with unique vivre, Gareiss has per- Sailbow – With roots in Geraghty artists in the world of formed with the likes of the Celtic music scenes in traditional music – Pearl- the Chieftains, the David Rochester, NY, and north- man will host the Nightap Munnelly Band, Beoga, ASSOCIATES ern California, Emilie concert and converse with Teada, and Le Vent du Rose (fiddle) and Casey the performers about their Nord and appeared in “A Murray (cello) are stu- musical odysseys and ad- Christmas Celtic Sojourn” PROPERTY MANAGERS dents at Berklee College of ventures. (he’ll also be performing at Music and deeply involved Other performers were BCMFest), and is a schol- with the school’s Ameri- still being confirmed as of ar of dance as well – he Studio and 1-Bedroom Apartments can Roots Program, and press time. holds a master’s degree in are happily exploring Bos- BCMFest is a program ethnochoreology from the Available in the desirable ton’s Celtic community. of Passim, a Cambridge- University of Limerick. Molly Pinto Madigan based non-profit seeking The show will take place at – A BCMFest veteran, to build a vibrant music 3 p.m. in Hildreth House, Cedar Grove section of Dorchester. Madigan is a singer-song- community through Club 13 Ayer Road in Harvard. Studios reasonably CD Reviews priced; two more Duncan tunes Chris is quite appealing Spanish Leather” (from 1-bedroom units; (“The Famous Baravan” on a setting of Robert Tan- his early, folk tradition- and “Zito the Bubble- nahill’s “Are You Sleeping influenced period) seems heat and hot water included. man”). It’s the Scottish Maggie?”; the couple also more a showcase for the material that plays to are in fine form on “Star Meyerses than a band the band’s strengths, o’ the Bar,” by Scottish piece. An excursion into Short walk to the Red Line. especially when McIn- singer-songwriter Davie Quebecois tunes lacks tosh is at the fore (fair Robertson, a song about the lift and agility you to mention, also, that he love that manages to be expect from that tradition. Free off-street Parking. does yeoman’s work on a engagingly sardonic and And there are junctures batch of Northumbrian philosophical at the same where the music feels pipe tunes, with their time. over-arranged – you wish Washing Machines unique decorations and Sometimes on the al- for less instrumentation, outbreaks of eighth and bum, though, reach ex- more space for the melody and Dryers in building. sixteenth notes). ceeds grasp. “The Black- or a tune’s innate rhythm. The vocal dimension smith” – that much-cov- But when it works – obviously sets this Fells- ered ballad of romantic and there are plenty of Call Michael at 617-364-4000 water album apart from disappointment – comes times it does on “Skipping its predecessors. Diane off rather over-wrought Stones” – the result is Meyers’s deep, soulful here, and the attempt to very pleasing to the ear. Geraghty Associates, Inc. voice lends itself well to interpolate the “Kid on As the band’s new line- Stuart and Wanda Sam- the Mountain” slip jig up continues to settle in, Property Managers son’s anthemic “Shores of into the song doesn’t ex- seven may well turn out Caledonia,” and her lead actly work. The rendition to be Fellswater’s lucky P.O. Box 52, Readville, MA 02137-0052 and harmonizing with of Bob Dylan’s “Boots of number. [fellswater.com] Tel: 617-364-4000 Fax: 617-364-3157 Page 14 January 2018 BOSTON IRISH Reporter bostonirish.com Fearful times across Boston for undocumented (Continued from page 1) well-known immigration he said, adding, “There some three million chil- Several Trump surro- attorney John Foley saw are definitely people say- dren brought to the US by gates have claimed over the crackdown coming. ing enough is enough, undocumented parents to the past year that the ICE maintains that its and they are returning to come out of the shadows president’s focus is on ille- agents search for anyone Ireland.” with legal status to remain gal immigrants who have who has violated im- John Foley told the in America without fear criminal backgrounds. migration laws and that BIR that the Irish who of deportation. Signed On the campaign trail, he the agency is especially have come to the United by President Obama, the branded them as people concerned by those with States since Jan. 12, 2009, DACA allowance has been who not only overstayed, a criminal past – the through the Visa Waiver overturned by Trump. but had played the sys- “murderers, rapists, et Program are particularly Unless Congress takes tem by grabbing every al” – that the president vulnerable. They were action, DACA will end entitlement, like welfare has spoken about. The required to file an appli- this month. and food stamps, they IIIC confirms that most cation through the Elec- “If Trump keeps his could find. Of course, he of the Irish seized by ICE tronic System for Travel promise to overturn Boston Irish Honors awardees Aidan Browne, singled out Hispanics, in Boston have violated Authorization, or ESTA. DACA,” Foley said, “he’s (right), and Kevin Cullen, (center), with the BIRs conveniently sidestepping the 90-day visa waiver, In effect, this is their talking about kicking out Bill Forry. Margaret Brett Hastings photo any overt references to but counters that most travel permit. ESTA is kids who all have clean Irish illegals, presumably offenses are traffic viola- not a US visa and applies records, are good students, Aidan Browne: ‘Go to’ aware that some 40 mil- tions and other minor only to foreigners visiting and are positive in every lion Americans claim Irish infractions. At Boston the United States by plane way to America. A lot of descent. Just a week after courthouses, ICE officials or ship. Any travelers these kids are Irish,” he man for Boston’s Irish Trump’s election victory, have looked for and seized entering through those added. (Continued from page 1) Anne Anderson, Ireland’s illegal immigrants stand- venues must provide a The IIIC is provid- were for the GPA, in 10 minutes I got it, and I was hook, ambassador to the US, ing in front of judges for “valid machine-readable ing assistance to illegal line, and sinker,” Browne told the BIR. “What I saw told the Irish Times: “The such routine issues. passport or ePassport,” Irish ensnared by ICE, in Dessie was amazing passion, incredible knowledge, immigration issue is, of To Simon Carswell, of according to ESTA guide- but, as Foley points out, tremendous empathy for the players and the players’ course, so live. We know The Irish Times, Millar lines. If someone from ICE is moving so fast to situation, which gave rise to the establishment of the about the large numbers of noted, “We have definitely Ireland tries to take a deport them that they GPA because the GAA, the overarching body, was not undocumented Irish that seen in Boston greater US-bound flight without are sometimes processed focused on the needs of the players.” have been living in the enforcement, and we are an approved ESTA Travel and put on a plane back The GPA was looking to bring a new format of hurl- shadows. Many of them representing a number of Authorization or a valid to Ireland before anyone ing called Super 11s to the US. Dessie had met up with now are living in fear, and individuals and we are US Visitor Visa, he or takes notice. The IIIC is former Dartmouth College and NBA basketball player that is a huge issue.” supporting them as best she might not be allowed telling illegal Irish never Walter Palmer, who had finished his playing career In regard to illegal Irish, we can. There is a deep, to board. If someone to follow ICE agents out in Europe. While over there, Palmer established the ICE acknowledges only deep concern about the overstays their allotted the door unless they arrive Basketball Players Association of Europe for profes- that a surge in rounding increased activity here.” time—for the Irish it was with a warrant bearing a sional players. up illegal immigrants has Millar related that the good for two years—he or judge’s signature. “Walter’s whole focus has always been around the been under way at the IIIC “has heard of in- she is permanently out of Foley, who has repre- players in all sports,” Browne said. “He went on to administration’s order. stances of undocumented the system and subject to sented illegal Irish caught become president of the World Association of Player A year ago, people in the Irish being arrested at immediate deportation. up in the ICE crackdown Associations, so he’s got an amazing amount of experi- Boston Irish and immigra- home, including one in- Foley also pointed to this year, spoke prophet- ence, knowledge, and understanding of what the needs tion communities raised dividual who woke up to another category of im- ic words not long after of the players are.” deep concerns over the find two ICE officers in his migrants facing deporta- Trump’s win: “I’ve been Palmer agreed to become a consultant to the GPA. fate of local Irish who had bedroom. The increased tion. Trump and ICE have doing immigration law for Not long afterward, he suggested staging the Super overstayed their visas. clampdown on the un- targeted Deferred Action years now, but I’ve never 11s at Fenway Park and his connection with Red Sox Ronnie Millar, executive documented has led some for Childhood Arrivals, seen so much fear in the president Sam Kennedy (both Kennedy’s and Palmer’s director of the IIIC, and to consider moving home,” or DACA, which allowed immigrant community.” fathers were ministers at churches in Back Bay) led to the 2015 AIG Fenway Hurling Classic match between Dublin and Galway, which was a huge success, posting ‘HIS DUTY WAS DONE TO THE LAST’ the highest TV ratings for a sport other than baseball at Fenway Park. Fenway and AIG’s eagerness to see On Jan. 16, 1908, BPD officer Lynch made the ultimate sacrifice hurling return to Boston led to plans for the recently (Continued from page 1) knew of him. At roll call, Lynch and and three sharp cracks held 2017 AIG Fenway Hurling Classic on Nov. 19, While grappling to con- Long before he donned fellow patrolmen were echoed above Summer under a similar Super 11s format. trol the thrashing suspect, police blue, he was re- ordered to keep a watch and Kingston. One bullet The scoring in the three matches was supplied by Doyle shouted at onlookers nowned as one of the for a notorious South slammed into Lynch’s arm, goals worth either three points or five points, depending to summon an ambulance finest athletes in Boston, Boston gang that had another whistled over his on from where they were scored. Galway, the defend- and a police wagon from starring in track and crew. been robbing downtown shoulders, and the third ing All-Ireland champions, defeated Dublin, 55-39, the Court Street Station The Post noted: “He was stores in recent weeks. ripped into his right side in the first semi-final, then Clare topped Tipperary, while he kept urging his a charter member of St. According to the Post, and through his abdomen 50-45, in the second semi-final. Clare went on to stun brother officer to hold on. Joseph’s Athletic Asso- “owing to the numerous before lodging in his liver. Galway, 50-33, in the final to win the inaugural Play- “I jumped in to help and ciation, West End…. He breaks by “yeggman” “Murphy” vanished into ers Champions Cup. had no idea at first that represented that orga- [armed robbers] in the the night. “I think what you experienced is just how palpable Lynch was wounded. I nization in all branches business section, officers The badly wounded the competition is between counties,” Browne said. supposed the shots must of sport in the various on the beats were ordered Lynch somehow wrapped “If they were playing that match on the moon, they’d have missed, but as I track meets of this part to watch closely for suspi- his arms around “Foley,” still be ferociously pursuing the win and the success. jumped on the man, Lynch of the country and was cious characters.” That took him down, and wres- And you saw it in every aspect of the game... [Clare] rolled over, and I saw he stroke of the famous St. very night, two or three tled for the revolver as the practiced the format for over six months. They really was hurt,” Doyle later told Joseph’s crack four-oared armed burglars reportedly shooter tried to twist away, applied themselves to understanding this new for- the Boston Post. crew of three or four years had hit a clothing store at but Lynch would not let go. mat...So I think the teams took each of these games John T. Lynch had de- ago. Cups that Lynch 364 Washington St. Passersby began to stop extremely seriously, and they wanted the pride of win- parted his family’s home, won for his organization Lynch began his rounds around the two men. Fred ning overseas, the pride of winning in Boston, the pride 11 Bainbridge Street, and banners and shields in Winthrop Square that Shubert, of 191 Auckland of winning the inaugural Players Champions Cup.” in Roxbury, at 5 p.m. on that he helped win now frigid night and worked Street, Roxbury, tried to Aside from competing for the cup and bragging rights, Thurs., Jan. 16, 1908, number among the most his way to Summer Street. help Lynch. “I rushed to the GPA had long hoped to increase the appreciation for his evening shift. For cherished trophies in the Patrolman Doyle headed the scene and arrived at of hurling and heighten the status of its players. The Lynch, wearing the blue possession of St. Joseph’s up to Arch Street. Just the same time as Patrol- two Fenway events have done just that. and the badge of the Bos- Association.” an hour or two into his man Doyle,” Shubert tes- “They’ve already got high status in Ireland, but to be ton Police Department When Lynch turned 18, shift, Lynch stopped short tified later. “I saw Officer viewed and understood in these different markets is was his lifelong dream; he enlisted in the Ninth at the corner of Kingston Lynch on top of the man… very, very valuable,” Browne said. “The GPA is about less than a week earlier, Massachusetts Infantry and Summer Streets. He holding the latter’s right supporting these players. Its role is not to get into the he had made the jump and soon earned renown “noticed two suspicious hand, in which there was business of making money out of these games for the from a reserve officer to a as one of the regiment’s men in a doorway” there a revolver.” sake of making money. It’s about raising the profile. full-time patrolman “ow- finest sharpshooters. He and asked them what they As an ambulance and When revenue accrues from these events, that goes ing to fine work” that had mulled re-upping in the were doing and what their police wagon rattled up to the players.” caught the attention of his Army, but his desire to names were. to the corner at about the Established in 2016, the Boston Friends of the GPA superiors. become a Boston police One of the men, slightly same time, Doyle “got the engages in support activities for the GPA and aims to The gravely wounded officer brought him back built and barely 5-feet-5 “wristers” (handcuffs) on increase the profile of Gaelic games in the US, with officer was born in Boston home. “Lynch was a man inches, stepped onto the “Foley,” picked him up its feature event being its annual dinner. Last year’s on Aug. 13, 1880, in the of magnificent physique,” sidewalk and muttered with several other officers, dinner— the inaugural one in Boston— drew more than Lowell Street home of a Post reporter wrote, that he was “John Mur- and tossed him into the 400 guests and was a huge success. The 2018 dinner his parents, James and “standing 6 ft., 2 inches, phy” of Andrew Square, wagon. Meanwhile, Pa- will be held on Fri., April 8, at the Intercontinental Mary Lynch. He grew up in his stockings and tip- South Boston. trolman Bartel and other Hotel in Boston. with three brothers and ping the beam at about “As he [Murphy] passed, Station 2 officers carried Browne hopes to see the Hurling Classic expand to two sisters in a close-knit 200 pounds. For years he Patrolman Lynch felt Lynch from the street on cities like New York and Chicago, which, like Boston, Irish Catholic family, and cherished the ambition to him for articles, as is the a stretcher, loaded him have large Irish and Irish American populations that had graduated from the become a police officer and custom,” the Post wrote.” carefully into the ambu- would be represented by the participating counties. “If Phillips Grammar School at the age of 23 successful- The man was clean. Lynch lance, and raced off to the you did the same series of three games, you could have before attending Boston ly passed the examination nodded and said, “I guess Relief Station Hospital in Mayo, Kerry, Dublin, and maybe Donegal,” he said. English High School for for the police service. He you are all right. You can Haymarket Square. “Each of those counties are very, very significantly two years. To help with was compelled, however, go along.” Inside the vehicle, Lynch represented here in the expat community and also in the family’s finances, he to wait for two years before The officer turned to asked Bartel for something the Irish American community. I think it would have worked for several years at he could receive his ap- the second man, who to kill the pain but then, ac- great appeal…What’s complicated about putting these a Leverett Street grocery pointment. He continually hesitated in the shadowy cording to Bartel, “seemed on is the very limited window of opportunity we have and then landed a job as looked forward to the day doorway and murmured to fall into a stupor and did because of the season that the players have. There’s a clerk for the eyeglass when he would be made a that his name was “Foley.” not speak again until he a total of about three weeks in November that you’ve firm Andrew J. Lloyd & Co police officer.” As Lynch moved closer was being carried into the got to get this tournament in…It’s always a challenge where he learned to repair That day came less than to frisk the man, “Foley” hospital, when he asked to figure out availability and who can actually come.” glasses. Still, he longed for a week before he encoun- slipped a revolver out of the doctor for a drink of For more information on the Boston Friends of the a life with more adventure, tered the gunman at the his overcoat’s right hip water.” GPA dinner in April, contact Natalie Metz at 617-723- a yearning that surprised corner of Summer and pocket. Three flashes Next: Death and The 2707 or [email protected]. no one who knew him or Kingston. illuminated the corner, Aftermath bostonirish.com January 2018 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 15 ‘Shameful, heartbreaking,’ Subscribe Today to Boston’s Own Hometown Newspaper says IIIC’s Ronnie Millar Boston Irish REPORTER “In 2017, there’s been the Irish stand with as much as we can,” he A Subscription to the Boston Irish Reporter Makes an Ideal Gift for Any Special Occasion. a 30-percent increase by our Latino brothers and added. “We try to pro- Why Not Order One Today for Yourself, or for That Special Irish Someone in Your Life? ICE in arresting illegal sisters and those of all vide legal services, and Order today, and we will send a gift card in your name. immigrants. What’s nationalities, races and because ICE is deport- Enclose $35.00 for each gift subscription. unusual is that Boston religions. What’s go- ing people so rapidly, is the only major city ing on is shameful and we’re working to help the Name______experiencing a rise in heartbreaking. Irish families about to be left Address______the number of illegal and other immigrants in behind, to be separated. City______State______Zip______Irish being rounded up. Boston are being treated The suddenness of it all We’ve wondered if this as criminals even though is overwhelming finan- Gift from______is because Boston is a most have no criminal cially and emotionally Charge to Visa______Mastercard______sanctuary city, but so offenses whatsoever. for husbands, wives, and is Chicago, and there’s “ICE agents are acting especially kids. Right Card #______Exp______been no similar rise in the with little simple human now we’re dealing with arrest and deportation decency and compassion. two young Irish ille- This year, give a gift that comes in the mail each month! of Irish. More Irish in They arrest people with gals who have American Mail to: Boston Irish Reporter, 150 Mt. Vernon Street, Dorchester, MA 02125 Boston face deportation no criminal background wives and kids and will We accept phone orders with your Visa or Mastercard. than in any other spot – other than a traffic be deported just in time Call 617-436-1222 Or Fax this order form to 617-825-5516 nationwide.” ticket sometimes – and for Christmas. The speaker is Ron- with American spouses “It’s devastating nie Millar, executive and children. ICE plac- and happening more and Ddrector of the Irish es them with hardcore more in our community,” International Immigra- criminals,” Millar said. Millar said. “We’ve lost tion Center, as he talks “Families are torn apart. our way in treating good with the BIR about the Tom Homan, ICE Direc- families like this. It’s ongoing crackdown by tor, has said, ‘We’re com- like what was happening ICE on illegal Irish in the ing after you [undocu- in Europe in the 1930s. Boston area mented].’ They’re doing “We should be better than EIRE “Of course, the num- so with an aggressive, this…” ber of Irish facing de- punitive approach and – PETER F. STEVENS portation is not on the mindset. pub scale of other immigrant “We’re trying to help groups,” he says. “Still, illegal Irish and others 795 Adams St. • Dorchester Subscribe Today! “President’s Choice” to the Boston Irish Serving Lunch & Dinner Reporter Call Every day, 617-436-1222 7 days a week

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NEW CALVARY CEMETERY Serving the Boston Community since 1899 - Non Sectarian Photography by Reasonable pricing and many options to choose from. Grave pricing starting at $1,000 Package pricing from $3,600 (includes grave purchase, first opening & liner for a weekday service). Cremation Niches starting at $1,375 Image Photo Service (Includes Niche Purchase, First Opening & Inscription) 617-296-2339 • Weddings • Anniversaries • Banquets 12 Month No Interest on Grave Purchases, Pre Need Opening Arrangements • Portraits • Reunions • Groups Lots with multiple graves and oversized graves available. • Families • Special Occasions Package price only available for an ‘at need’ service. Overtime Fees apply to Saturday and Holiday Interments Other options available at Mt. Benedict Cemetery (617) 291-6609 in West Roxbury The B.C.C.A. Family of Cemeteries Main Office located at: Harry Brett • Margaret Brett Hastings 366 Cummins Highway, Roslindale, MA 02131 Pricing information and maps available online at: www.BostonCemetery.org The official photographers of the Boston Irish Reporter 617-325-6830 [email protected] Page 16 January 2018 BOSTON IRISH Reporter bostonirish.com BRETT’S BOSTON By Harry Brett Exclusive photos of Boston Irish people & events

Members of the The Eire Society and the Charitable Irish Society came together for a “Seasonal Celebration of Celtic Christmas Cheer and Chanukah Light” on Sun., Dec. 17, at Eat with Jack O’Neill tavern on Centre Street in West Roxbury. The food was prepared by Chef Denise O’Neill, who trained in Cork at Irish celebrity chef Darina Allen’s Ballymaloe Cookery School, and the music was performed by the BIR’s music writer/reviewer, Sean Smith, and Colleen White. The groups billed the event as “refreshments to replenish the spirit.”

1.) Musicians Colleen White, Brookline; Sean Smith, Newton; 2.) Lorraine and Tom Walsh, Needham; Connie Cassidy Koutoujian, Waltham; 3.) Trisha Griffin-Carty, Dedham; 4.) Mary O’Neil, Newton; John McGuire, Roslindale; 5.) Jack and Ann Warner, Norwood; 6.) Margaret and Jeff Flagg, West Roxbury; 7.) Judge Bob and Dr. Kathleen Kelly, Milton; 8.) Tom Carty, Dedham; John 1. McGuire, Roslindale; 9.) Connie Cassidy-Koutoujian, Waltham (standing); Edris Kelley, Marshfield (standing); Katie O’Sullivan, Hull; Sheila Gagnon, Marshfield; Cate McGrail, Belmont; Barbara Fitzgerald, Milton; 10.) John and Holly Mara, Concord; 11.) Judge Patrick King, So. Boston, Sandy Moody, So. Boston; Paul and Margo Doyle, Weymouth.

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