October 2019 Boston’s hometown VOL. 30 # 10 journal of Irish culture. $2.00 Worldwide at All contents copyright © 2019 bostonirish.com Boston Neighborhood News, Inc. Boston Irish Honors celebrate four who honor their heritage The city’s top hotelier, a pioneering leader in educa- tion, and a couple who have led the transformation of Boston’s waterfront will be the honorees at next month’s tenth annual Boston Irish Honors, the season’s premier celebration of Irish-American achievement in Massachusetts. The luncheon, convened by the Boston Irish Reporter, will see hundreds of guests gathered at Seaport Boston Hotel on Fri., Oct. 18. James M. Carmody, the vice president and general manager of Seaport Hotel & Seaport World Trade Center, will be honored for his distinguished career in hospitality and for his leadership in philanthropy. Carmody, who is the current chair of the Greater Boston Convention and Visitors Bureau, serves on the board of Cathedral High School. Grace Cotter Regan is the first woman to lead Boston College High School and one of the nation’s most highly regarded leaders in Catholic education. She previously served as head of school at St. Mary’s High School in Introducing the Irish naval offshore Patrol Vessel L.É. SamuelBeckett #P61, which will be visiting Boston Lynn and as provincial assistant and executive director this month. Public visiting hours will be 10 a.m.to 5 p.m. at Charlestown Navy Yard on Fri., Oct. 4, and of advancement for the New England Province of Jesuits. Saturday, Oct 5. Plans are being made for a wreath-laying ceremony at the Deer Island Irish Memorial The daughter of the late legendary BC High football as the ship passes and leaves Boston Harbor on Oct 7. coach, Jim Cotter ’55, she holds master’s degrees in pastoral ministry, student affairs, and higher education administration from Boston College and the University Johnson says Brexit proposal on tap; of Vermont. John and Kathleen Drew and their family have been on the vanguard of transforming Boston’s waterfront Varadkar wants ‘guarantees’ honored and skyline for more than four decades through the Drew Company, which created the World Trade Center By Jill Lawless member Ireland — the key Boston and the Seaport Hotel. John and Kathy have Associated Press sticking point to a deal. taken on leadership roles in their ancestral home as MANCHESTER, Eng- An open border underpins well, developing property in Dublin and as a member land – British Prime both the local economy and of the American Ireland Fund. Minister Boris Johnson Northern Ireland’s peace The 35-member luncheon committee is chaired by Ed announced on Oct. 1, that process. Forry, founder of the Boston Irish Reporter and Bos- Britain will make firm pro- In the week before his lat- tonIrish.com. Serving as honorary chairs are US Sen. posals for a new divorce est announcement, Johnson Edward Markey and Boston Mayor Martin J. Walsh. deal with the European met up with Leo Varadkar, the The program moderator will be Boston Red Sox “poet Union within days, saying Irish prime minister, at the UN laureate” Dick Flavin. “this is the moment when General Assembly meetings in “This inspiring luncheon allows us to recognize the rubber hits the road.” New York for some talk about and celebrate exemplary Irish individuals and their He has been insisting that Brexit. families who share our heritage in Boston and Ireland,” Britain will leave the EU Speaking to reporters explained Ed Forry, the founder and publisher of the on the scheduled Oct. 31 after the meeting, the Boston Irish Reporter. date with or without a Irish PM Leo Varadkar and British PM Boris John- Taoiseach, who will be in The 10th annual Boston Irish Honors luncheon will deal. son greet the press after their meeting in Dublin Boston on Oct. 16 to re- on Sept. 9. take place on Fri., Oct. 18, at 11:45 a.m. at the Seaport Leaders of the 28-nation ceive a Solas Award from Hotel/Boston World Trade Center. For tickets, call EU are growing impatient set out detailed plans border between the UK’s the Irish International 617-204-4221 or email [email protected]. with the UK‘s failure to for maintaining an open Northern Ireland and EU (Continued on page 19) ‘From the Floor’ tracks moods, feelings that go into Irish dance By Sean Smith Theatre in Dublin as part of “The Sound Special to the BIR of Ireland” production. She also runs a A spur-of-the-moment creative im- non-competitive Irish dance program pulse by two Greater Boston residents for children and was a co-recipient of a during a Thanksgiving sojourn has now, 2017 Boston Foundation grant for chore- nearly four years later, culminated in a ographers. McGowan, co-founder of the unique video project that offers a new contemporary step dance company Ris- perspective on traditional Irish dance. ing Step, has performed at the Kennedy “From the Floor” is the brainchild of Center, in WGBH’s “A Christmas Celtic Jackie O’Riley and Rebecca McGowan, Sojourn,” and at numerous festivals in performers and teachers who specialize the Boston and Washington, DC, areas. in sean-nós and other older, “low-to-the- She has also taught at the Catskills Irish ground” styles of Irish dance, marked by Arts Week, Pinewoods Camp, and CCE improvisational stepping and footwork. MAD Week, among other places. O’Riley is an original member of the McGowan and O’Riley describe “From touring sean-nós dance show Atlantic the Floor” as a “visual album” of Irish Steps who performed at the Abbey music and dance: six separate but as- A scene from the video “From the Floor,” with (L-R) Jackie O’Riley, Rebecca (Continued on page 10) McGowan and Chris Stevens.

* Annual Percentage Yield (APY) of WINcentive Savings is .10% APY and is accurate as of 1/1/19. APY is subject to change without notice. Must be a member in good standing of City of Boston Credit Union to open WINcentive Savings. Only one WINcentive Savings account Now you can build your savings allowed per member. Business and trust accounts or other non-consumer accounts are not eligible. Unlimited deposits allowed, but per calendar year prize pool entries are earned by month-over-month balance increases with each $25 deposit increase equal to one (1) entry with the following maximum entries per drawing period - maximum number of entries per and have a chance to WIN! month equals 4, maximum number of entries per quarter equals 12 and maximum number of entries per year equals 48. Account holder is only eligible to win once per drawing pool period. ® At least one account holder must be 18 years or older. Account must be open and active to With WINcentive Savings*, a prize-linked savings account offered by win any prize during drawing period. Early withdrawal penalites apply; first withdrawal $10 fee, City of Boston Credit Union you can watch your savings grow and have the second withdrawal $25 fee, third withdrawal account closure is required with no penalty. If WINcentive savings account is closed member is ineligible to open another WINcentive savings chance to win in monthly, quarterly and annual drawings. By saving with account with City of Boston Credit Union for a period of 90 days, all earned drawings at the time of account closure are forfeited. Minimum deposit of $5.00. After twelve (12) consecutive a WINcentive Savings account you earn entries into prize drawings based months of saving, WINcentive savings account holder may do any of the following penalty-free on how much you save! For complete details please visit cityofbostoncu.com during the one year anniversary month (month 13) of account opening; keep balance in WSA account, (any roll-over balance that remains at the end of the anniversary month will be treated as a new deposit for eligibility into applicable prize pools for the subsequent first monthly, quarterly and annual savings period); Transfer funds into another savings product offered by City of Boston Credit Union; Withdraw all funds but keep $5 on deposit in WSA to maintain account; Close account. Offer may be withdrawn at any time. 617-635-4545 Federally Insured Cityofbostoncu.com by NCUA Page 2 October 2019 BOSTON IRISH Reporter bostonirish.com HAPPENING OCTOBER 2019 Thurs., Oct. 3 – The Irish Network cious Irish baked goods and Irish (IN Boston) and the Boston Public trifle. Donation is $10. Cash bar. Library present an evening with Jack For information call President Mary Cashman, author of “An Irish Immi- at 978-664-4652. grant Story.” The Central Library, 6 Sun., Oct. 13 – Irish Social Club’s Charles L. Donahue Jr Michael Oliver Anita P. Sharma p.m. to 7:30 p.m. weekly dance will be held from 7 to 10 Fri., Oct. 4 –The Irish Network in p.m., with John Connors. Boston invite members to join them Fri., Oct. 18 – The Boston Irish Re- Charitable Irish Society honors aboard the “L. E. Samuel Beckett” porter’s “Irish Honors” luncheon will while it is docked at Pier 1, Charles- be held at 11.30 a.m. at the Seaport town (behind the USS Constitution) Hotel. This year’s honorees are Grace three with its Silver Key Award, from 6.30 p.m. to 8 p.m. RSVP irish- Cotter Regan, James M. Carmody, and [email protected]. John Drew & Family. For information citing ‘Good Will Doing Service’ Sat., Oct. 5 – The Irish Music club of on the luncheon please call 617-436- Greater Boston has its monthly dance 1222, Ext. 11. The Charitable Irish Society held its conduct citizenship classes at the Boston at the Viking Club, 410 Quincy Ave., • St. Theresa’s Parish’s annual annual Silver Key Awards event last Public Library and its seven branches Braintree. Music by the Andy Healy dance. Info: call 617- 325-1300. month at the Fairmont Copley Plaza as well as in Somerville and Newton. Hotel in Boston. As in the past, this • Anita Sharma is the executive di- band from 7-11 p.m. Sat., Oct. 19 – Norwood Irish Music year’s honorees – Charles L. Donahue, rector of the PAIR (Political Asylum/ • The Irish Cultural Centre has Club holds its monthly dance at the Jr., Mike Oliver, and Anita Sharma – Immigration Representation) Project, country and western star T. R. Dallas Knights of Columbus Hall on Nichols come from the corporate and grass roots which provides legal representation at 7.30 pm for your dancing pleasure. Street in Norwood at 7 p.m. Music by community sectors and have shown to asylum seekers, and matches pro Tickets are $20; members $15. Call Kathy and the Irish Americans. exceptional leadership in building co- bono attorneys with those in need of 781-821-8291. • The Irish Cultural Centre will hold operative links between civic, religious, legal advice. She works closely with the Sun., Oct. 6 – Mass at the Irish the Boston Beer Festival. Music all and cultural organizations that welcome Boston Bar Association’s Immigrant Cultural Centre. 11 a.m. day, plus a writer’s workshop. Admis- and serve the varied and immediate Services Section. She was recently • The Irish Social Club’s Sunday sion is $15. Free event for members. needs of the immigrant community. honored as a Bar Foundation Fellow evening dance will be held from 7 to Sun., Oct. 20 – The Irish Social club • Charles Donahue has had a long in recognition of her exemplary leader- 10 p.m. The Noel Henry Irish Show features Erin’s Melody at its Sunday career in health care planning, with ship in Greater Boston’s civic society. band will entertain. evening dance. 7 to 10 p.m. particular emphasis on community According to the Society, the honorees Mon., Oct. 7 – The Sligo Associa- Sat., Oct. 26 – The North Shore based care and expansion of health care for 2019 “are the living embodiment of tion will have its monthly meeting at Irish Association will hold its dance to all. He has been a loyal supporter of the society’s historic motto of “With Good Waterford’s in Dedham at 8 p.m. All at the Knights of Columbus Hall, 23 Irish philanthropic organizations such Will Doing Service” and thereby carry on are welcome. West Foster Street in Melrose. Erin’s as the Irish American Partnership and the tradition of generations of Boston’s Thurs., Oct. 10 – IIIC – A 30th Melody will entertain from 7 to 11 p.m. the Boston Irish Business Association. Irish Diaspora to assist those immigrants birthday celebration of the Solas Sun., Oct. 27 – The Irish Social • For more than two decades, Mike who aspire to call Boston their home.” Awards at 6 p.m. at the Boston Harbor club will have Mossie for its Sunday Oliver has served the immigrant com- Since 1997, this event has served as Hotel. The Taoiseach, Leo Varadkar, evening dance. 7 to 10 p.m. munities in Dorchester, Cambridge, and the Society’s chief fundraiser, enabling will receive the “Leadership Award”. Tues., Oct. 29 – Join the Boston Boston. As director of the St. Mark’s it to fulfill its historic core mission of Information: [email protected]. chapter of the UCD Alumni at the Community Educational Program, he providing aid and assistance to newly • The Irish Cultural Centre will Boston Harbor Distillery for a tour and has organized English language classes arrived Irish immigrants, and more present Tara O’Grady at 7.30 p.m. tasting. email: [email protected]. and citizen preparation classes for adult recently some from other countries, immigrants and, in cooperation with as they face the multiple challenges of Fri., Oct. 11 – The Irish Social club Wed., Oct. 30 – The Irish Social Boston Cares, he has expanded that adjusting to and assimilating into a new features a comedy evening with Don Club will host the City of Boston’s program greatly by training volunteers to city and country. Gavin & Friends. Admission is $25. Halloween Party for senior citizens Sat., Oct. 12 – The Irish Cultural sponsored by Mayor Marty Walsh. Centre will present the Irish play “Boicini Bhothar, Kilburn” at 7.30 Our sincere thanks the Boston Irish Presenting an evening of prose p.m. and again on Sunday the 13th reporter, station WROL, and WUNR at 2 p.m. for keeping the Irish Tradition alive and poetry from across the sea • The Knights and Ladies of St. and well in the Boston area. “Happen- Finbarr - Cork Club will celebrate ing” is a monthly list of functions by The Charitable Irish Society will be Special invitations have been ex- their 115th anniversary with a dance Irish Associations in the Boston area joined by the Scots’ Charitable Society tended to Ireland Consul General Laoise at the Malden Irish American Club, prepared by the Knights & Ladies of of Boston and the British Society in co- Moore; British Consul General Harriet 177 West St., Malden. Presentations St. Finbarr - Cork Club. The items sponsoring an informal evening of read- Cross, British Vice Consul Jacqueline will be made to Man and Woman of listed are accurate to the best of our ings and recitations of poetry and prose Greenlaw and Brian O’Donovan of the year. Music by “Erin’s Melody.” knowledge. They are always subject passages from the works of the many WGBH. Complimentary coffee, tea and deli- to change. great poets and writers from Ireland, Tickets are $35 per person which in- Scotland and England. cludes hor d’oeuvres, crackers, cheese, This special cultural evening is fruit, wine, beer, and other refresh- planned for Fri., Oct. 25 – St. Crispin’s ments, and an opportunity to share a love Day – at the Boston Harbor Hotel from for poetry and literature with friends and 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. new acquaintances. A special discounted Anyone wishing to share a favorite rate of $5 is available for college students poem or prose passage is invited to who present an ID. participate. Professors and students To register, visit charitableirishso- from area colleges and universities are ciety.org/event-3520604/Registration. Come especially invited to attend. on in!

the best breakfast ything sandwiches around! Ever Irish soda bread and 6 kinds of scones! baked fresh iced coffee, brewed daily! flavored coffees & cold brew! cookies, cakes and pies!! lunch sandwiches and paninis! The Irish American Partnership hosted a roundtable discussionat the Bos- ton Harbor Hotel on Sept. 10 with Dr. Andrew McCormick, Director General of International Relations at the Northern Ireland Executive. Pictured, from left: Andrew Elliott, Director of the Northern Ireland Bureau, Dr. McCormick, Clodagh Boyle, VP of Development with the Irish American Partnership, Greenhills Bakery, 780 Adams Street, Dorchester, MA 02124 (617) 825-8187 British Consul General to New England Harriet Cross, Mary Sugrue, CEO of the Irish American Partnership, and Irish Consul General Laoise Moore. bostonirish.com October 2019 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 3

Friday, October 18, 2019 Seaport Boston Hotel Boston, Massachusetts

2019 Boston Irish Honorees

James M. Carmody John Drew and Family Grace Cotter Regan

Marking a special anniversary of this celebratory luncheon, Boston Irish Honors recognizes the leadership and accomplishments of individuals and families of Irish descent who exemplify the very best of our values, legacies, and traditions.

For reservations, email [email protected] or call 617-204-4221 Boston Irish Honors c/o Conventures, Inc. 88 Black Falcon Avenue, Suite 202 Boston, MA 02210 Page 4 October 2019 BOSTON IRISH Reporter bostonirish.com Publisher’s Noteboook About my big brother Jim

A quiet autumn By Dick Flavin Then, on the 40th anni- My brother Jim and I were Irish twins, born less versary of his ordination, than a year apart. He arrived on Dec. 9, 1935 and I his parishoners at Christ at Fenway Park showed up the following December, on the 7th. We were the King Church in Miami the middle two of four siblings; our sisters Marguerite honored him and we all By Ed Forry and Marilyn were the bookends that kept us propped went there for the occa- The 2019 Red Sox season came to an unsatisfactory up and in line. sion. It was eye-opening and unhappy end last month. Unlike last year, when As the older brother, Jim was bigger, stronger, and to see the ease with which the team won 108 games and swept into the playoffs – thankfully – more forgiving than I. Being the little he moved in the largely for a historic World Series championship, this year brother, I viewed it as my mission to taunt and pester Haitian culture of the par- the season started off poorly, and the team slogged him at every opportunity, but he always treated me ish – so different from the through the season, finishing barely above the .500 with patience and understanding - except on those Irish Catholic ways of his mark. Sad to say, there will be no more baseball games occasions when I overstepped the bounds of common boyhood parish life – and at Fenway Park until next spring. decency, such as by stealing a piece of candy that was to see the genuine affection Also unlike last year, rightfully his. When I did incite his rage, I resorted that his parishoners had Rev. James Flavin, OMI there will no Irish hurl- to the one physical characteristic at which I excelled; for him, and he for them. ing games at Fenway I ran. I knew that if I could avoid his grasp for just a Eventually his work took him back to Massachusetts, Park in 2019. After two few minutes he would cool down, his forgiving nature first as the director of Saint Joseph the Worker Shrine remarkable fall events would come to the fore, and I would live to pester him in Lowell, and then as superior of the Immaculate in recent years at the another day. Heart of Mary Residence in Tewksbury, where he later old ballyard on Jersey Back then we called him Jimmie, spelled with an became a satisfied customer in his retirement. Street, the Gaelic Play- “ie” at the end, like Jimmie Foxx, the old ballplayer. He used what spare time he had creatively and pro- ers exhibition hurling I longed for the day when we both would reach full ductively. As a young priest he became interested in matches have been growth and I would be his equal in size and strength. aviation, took flying lessons, and was for the rest of his moved to New York But when that day finally came, he remained, and would days an active pilot. He was an avid skier, an activity City this year. The GPA be forever more, bigger, stronger, and more forgiving. he pursued until into his eighties. A gifted writer, he “Super 11s Hurling We both served as altar boys at Our Lady of Good authored two books on his experiences as a priest and Classic” will be played Counsel Church in Quincy, Mass., but he was never a on his obervations of the people and the world around in Queens in November goody-two-shoes kid, not a holier-than-thou type. In him. He was an enthusiastic gardener, and in the at Citi Field, home of fact he was capable of mischief; in one case at least, spring he tapped sugar maples on the Oblate property the New York Mets, on serious mischief. One Saturday morning he and another in Tewksbury, boiled down the sap, and made maple the weekend after Veterans Day. kid from the neighborhood went behind Merrymount syrup that he distributed as gifts to friends and rela- In a message to local supporters, the Boston or- School, where we all attended grammar school, gathered tives. He even, late in life, learned to ride a unicycle. ganizers explained, “This year, on the back of our up some stones, and proceded to break every window All of which is not to say that his life was free from success in Boston, our partners at Fenway Sports in the back of the school. The damage could not be seen care and strife. He faced his share of it, including see- Management and the GAA will join Boston Friends from the street, so the kids thought they were safe from ing his own reputation and the reputation of every of the Gaelic Players in bringing the 2019 GPA Su- detection. They failed to calculate, though, that there good priest sullied by the sexual abuse scandals of per 11s Hurling Classic to New York at Citi Field on was a big hill abutting the rear of the school property, the clergy. But when the storms came into his life, no Sat., Nov 16. and on that hill were several houses. When their oc- matter how high the winds, how torrential the rains, “A total of 35,000 people has now seen Super 11s cupants heard glass shattering, they looked out of their or how choppy and dangerous the seas, he always kept Hurling live. If this season’s thrill a minute, All windows and were able make positive identifications his hand firmly on the tiller of the small boat he had Ireland Hurling Championship is anything to go by, of the guilty parties. chosen to take him on his mission in life. He stayed then this year’s no holds barred Super 11s Hurling Jimmie paid a steep price for that trangression and on course. He kept the faith. Classic, played to a packed stadium, promises to be Jim Sr. paid a steep price for the replacement of all spectacular in every way. those shattered window panes. This past Labor Day at lunch he seemed to be his ‘In this year’s tournament, Limerick will defend its As he progressed through his high school years, Jim usual good-natured self, but no one at the Oblates Super 11s title and Players Champions Cup against heard the calling for a vocation in the priesthood; he residence in Tewksbury remembers seeing him later 2019 All-Ireland Champions Tipperary, 2019 All-Ire- was interested in a missionary order. The calling was in the day. Perhaps not feeling well, he had gone to his land Runners Up Kilkenny, and hurling powerhouse not something that he talked about much, but the room. Sometime after midnight he called the nurse in Wexford. For those wondering about Super 11s, it is word got around and soon priests from various orders distress and was rushed to Lowell General Hospital. It a modified version of hurling that was devised by the started to show up at the house. They were like college was too late. In the predawn hours of Sept. 3, he was GPA and developed by the GPA and the GAA in col- football coaches on recruiting missions trying to sell pronouced dead. He was 83. laboration. Played 11 a side and 20 minutes per half, their institutions to a talented quarterback. He has sailed his small boat safely into port, dis- it is an exciting, explosive game with non-stop action.” The Oblates of Mary Immaculate gained the inside embarked, and stepped ashore on the other side. He’s Although there will be no matches at Fenway this track, though, and after spending a year at Providence no longer with us in a physical sense, but all those of year, the Boston Friends group will continue to sup- College to be sure of his decision, he was off to the us who loved him and whose lives he touched need do port the series. This year, in association with the GPA seminary in September of 1955. Along the way earned is close our eyes for moment, and there he is and will Super 11’s Hurling Classic, the Friends will host a a Doctor of Ministry degree. He was ordained a priest always be – big, strong, forgiving, and faithful to his CEO Champions Luncheon at Fenway Park on Fri., on May 31, 1963. mission to the end. Nov. 8 at noon at the ballyard’s State Street Pavilion. He spent 40 years of his priesthood serving in parish We love you, Jimmie. “Leading CEOs and senior executives from the world ministries in places as far-flung as Ashville, North Caro- Dick Flavin is the poet laureate and senior ambas- of business and sport will be on hand to discuss topics lina, Mullins, West Virgina, Grand Rapids, Michigan, sador of the Boston Red Sox and voice of Fenway Park, of common interest, share insights, and make great and several postings in and around the third world serving as public address announcer for Red Sox day connections,” the Friends group said. Keynote speaker sections of Miami, Florida. We siblings were always games. A nationally known speaker, his television will be Sam Kennedy, president and CEO of the Boston aware of where he was and of the work he was doing commentaries have won seven New England Emmy Red Sox and Fenway Sports Management. Featured to spread the word of God and the gift of his Catholic Awards. He is a member of the Massachusetts Broad- guests will include All Ireland champion players. faith but we never witnessed it first-hand because he casters Hall of Fame. The Boston committee making the plans in- was always hundreds of miles away. clude Aidan Browne, chair; Executive Committee members Brian O’Donovan, Jon Cronin, Walter Palm- er, Ciaran Hynes, Brian Sugrue, Hon. Consul General Aside to Gen. Mattis: It’s not the time to Laoise Moore, and Sean Pairceir, 2017 Advocate. Other members include Dave Greaney, Trevor Par- sons, David Doyle, Bill Forry, Declan Mehigan, Frank withhold your judgment of Donald Trump Gillespie, Gary Kerr, Joe Shea, Laura Cuddihy, Lisa McKelvey, Mary Sugrue, Michael Feighery, Padraig By James W. Dolan anywhere. He then lets the reader draw what, in the Moloney, Pam McDermott, Patrick Sarkis, Sam Reporter Columnist president’s case, is the obvious conclusion. It’s a little Browne, Sean Moynihan, Tom O’Brien, Trevor Few in the nation are admired as much as James like reciting the Beatitudes and then declining to say McGill, Valerie Schwab, Dee O’Callaghan, Marian Mattis, former Marine Corps general and US defense whether or not the president is or is not in compliance. Ward-Lent, Spencer Shagoury, Steve Connelly, Joe secretary. In many respects, he represents the best of The general certainly expected his superiors in the Dunne, and Clio Barr. us: dedicated, principled, loyal, and smart. He, along Marine Corps to demonstrate character and compe- Sponsorship levels from $2,500 to $25,000 are with another distinguished Marine and former assis- tence. He also would have rigorously demanded that available, with individual tickets at $250 Tickets and tant secretary of defense, Bing West, who is originally officers serving under him comply with those leader- sponsorship details are available online at irishap.org, from Dorchester, recently wrote a book about leadership ship tenets he so earnestly practiced himself. During or contact Lucia Guzikowski 617-723-2707, lucia@ titled “Call Sign Chaos.” his book tour, he declines all efforts to have him com- irishap.org, or for more information, contact Clio In it, Mattis describes ment on the president’s leadership despite his unique Barr 617-210-6910, [email protected] the qualities he says a position to evaluate the commander-in-chief. Now is Off the Bench leader must have. While not the time to withhold judgment. acknowledging that he Mattis has said his silence is not eternal and that resigned because he disagreed with some adminis- there may occur circumstances when he will feel tration defense policies, he does not comment on the compelled to speak out. I suggest those circumstances Boston Irish character and capabilities of President Trump, his already exist and have for a while. Leadership can be former boss. While he views his silence as a duty, it uncomfortable. It sometimes requires forthright candor REPORTER also serves as a refuge, a way to avoid controversy when the nation is at risk and silence can be seen as, The Boston Irish Reporter is published every month Is this a case of misplaced loyalty? Does he have if not approval, at least acceptance. When does duty Boston Neighborhood News, Inc., a higher duty to express either his support for the respond to a higher calling? 150 Mt. Vernon St., Suite 560, Dorchester, MA 02125 commander-in-chief or his concern for the nation under Some suggest Mattis’s reticence may be related to [email protected] www.bostonirish.com Trump’s direction? Particularly when it’s obvious the his recent return to the board of General Dynamics, Mary C. Forry, President (1983-2004) president demonstrates none of the leadership qualities the nation’s fifth largest defense contractor. It has long Edward W. Forry, Publisher Mattis describes at great length in the book. been a common practice for former defense officials and Thomas F. Mulvoy Jr., Managing Editor retired high ranking military officers to work in the William P. Forry, Editor Why define leadership if you are unable or unwilling Peter F. Stevens, Contributing Editor to apply that definition to a person you worked for? Is defense industry. Another even more famous general, Jack Conboy, Advertising Manager leadership an abstraction? Is it somehow disloyal or former president Dwight Eisenhower, warned us over News: (617) 822-3225 Ads : (617) 436-1222 disrespectful to define leadership and measure someone 50 years ago of the “grave implications” of the nation’s Fax: (617) 825-5516 [email protected] to whom you reported by those standards? I believe it military-industrial complex, a formidable union of the On the Web: bostonirish.com Twitter @bostonirishrptr is important by way of illustration to cite examples of arms industry and the military that breeds conflicts of Visit our Facebook page at Bostonirishreporter people who have or have not displayed those qualities. interest and lack of oversight. It also can make those Mattis apparently prefers to do it by indirection. involved reluctant to openly criticize powerful govern- Next Issue: November, 2019 Deadline: Mon., Oct. 21 at 12 noon ment officials. Published monthly in the first week of each month. Instead of coming right out and saying it, he criticizes The Boston Irish Reporter is not liable for errors appearing in advertisements beyond the cost of the space occupied by the president by enumerating the qualities necessary James W. Dolan is a retired Dorchester District Court the error. The right is reserved by The Boston Irish Reporter to edit, reject, or cut any copy without notice. for sound leadership, not just in the military but judge who now practices law. bostonirish.com October 2019 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 5 Point of View William Barr has earned his niche in the Hall of Shame As impeachment looms, Trump turns to his trusty phalanx of Irish Americans for cover By Peter F. Stevens “Nothing is politically right which is morally wrong.” BIR Staff For Donald Trump and his Irish-American enablers, Political predictions are all too often a fool’s errand. facts pose the gravest threat to their corruption and A month or two ago in this space, I asserted that Presi- the offices they hold so poorly. In 1770, just a few dent Trump would never be impeached, thinking that years before the British colonists in North America Democratic spinelessness and GOP fealty to, and fear proclaimed their independence from King George III, of, the president would allow the administration of a Massachusetts attorney named John Adams risked Donald Trump to profess his successful mantra to his his reputation and his personal safety to defend the cowed or irate foes: What are you —meaning Democratic British soldiers charged with murder in the infamous leaders and many in the media—going to do about it? Boston Massacre. At a pivotal juncture of the trial, Up until now, the Dems’ answer has always been to he said: “I will enlarge no more on the evidence, but scream and then hold their breath until they turn blue. submit it to you, gentleman [that] facts are stubborn Always, just as Trump counted on, the final response things; and whatever may be our wishes, our inclina- was a meek “nothing. tions, or the dictates of our passions, they cannot alter That was until the president’s hubris, narcissism, the state of facts and evidence...” and belief that he is above any law or Constitutional The fact is that Donald Trump did pressure the edict forced the reluctant speaker of the House, Nancy Ukrainian president to unearth “corruption”—fabri- Pelosi, to act. Donald J. Trump will be impeached by cated or not— so he could hang onto the White House the Democratic-controlled House, and he has no one next year. The fact is that Trump violated his oath and to blame but himself and the words that came out of perhaps the law. Out of his own mouth, he spilled the his own autocratic-driven mouth during his “perfect” words that will ensure his impeachment. How do we call with the new Ukrainian president, Volodymyr know that? We know, because the president himself Zelensky. Even the president’s lock-step defenders William Barr, the Hall’s new entry released the excerpts of that explosive phone call. And such as House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy have once again, he said to his opponents: What are you offered stammering, stumbling, preposterous denials whistleblower and bludgeon him into silence out of going to do about it? This time, the answer was – an that Donald Trump’s own words are the issue. Instead, fear for personal and family safety. impeachment inquiry. He never expected that. they say, the real problem is Joe and Hunter Biden For all that, who will Donald Trump employ to extri- The president’s acolytes often level the term “Trump and that it is Trump who is ferreting out corruption. cate himself from his self-imposed mess? The answer, Derangement Syndrome” against his critics. For sure, In truth, it is Trump and his legions of corrupt fol- in large measure, is his Irish-American underlings some of those critics truly are blinded by hatred of lowers who have crossed the Rubicon/Potomac. The including Mulvaney, McCarthy, and, for goodness sake, Donald Trump and anything he says or does. There is, summary – not an actual transcript, as so many par- William Barr, the US attorney general. however, another strain of Trump Derangement Syn- tisans and lazy media “experts” claim – of Trump’s It’s time to place Barr’s name in the forefront of drome, the one that has infected followers who believe strong-arming of Zelensky reads as if had been lifted Trump’s Irish-American Hall of Shame. This personal that everything he does can be justified—politically and from the scripts of “The Godfather” and “Goodfellas.” presidential counsel masquerading as the nation’s morally. In the coming months, the nation will learn The president, having ordered Mick Mulvaney, his attorney general is the son of Mary Margaret Ahern whether a president impeached by the opposing party’s Irish-American lackey and acting chief of staff, to hold (married name Barr) whose ancestry is that of the old House but “excused” by his Senate can win reelection. back approved military aid to the Ukraine and to lie sod. Now, her son is truly Trump’s “Roy Cohn,” labor- As is the case with Presidents Andrew Johnson and to Congress about the ploy, then he solicited “a favor” ing daily to buttress Trump’s belief that a president Bill Clinton (Nixon resigned before impeachment), from Zelensky to dig up dirt on Biden, his possible stands above the law and the Constitution and that the scarlet letter of “I” for impeached could forever rival in the 2020 presidential election. In short, the nothing he or she does can even be investigated. stain Donald Trump’s reputation. Another “I” should president violated his oath of office by using the power Barr’s maternal antecedents hailed from a land similarly sully the records and sorry legacies of Mick of that office in a scantily coded extortion scheme with where the Crown, Westminster, and an Anglo-Irish Mulvaney, Kevin McCarthy, and William Barr—a international trappings. ascendancy trampled those who dared raise their voices crimson “I” denoting powerful Irish-Americans who Doubling and tripling down, the president has begun against the powerful. Every day, Barr, McCarthy, placed a president above their country and their to threaten the “whistleblower” who brought his alleged and Mulvaney aid and abet a man who is stomping families’ heritages. violations of the presidential oath to light, denounc- on laws and constitutional, legal, financial, cultural, Perhaps Daniel O’Connell’s admonition that morality ing the person as a “spy” or a traitor worthy of how racial, religious, political, and moral norms. Every day, must supersede politics still has some meaning even in “we used to” deal with them, i.e., execution. No one that sorry Irish-American troika sneers at the words a nation and a world as fractured as ours. The looming should have any illusions about what the president of Daniel O’Connell, “The Liberator,” one of the great- impeachment proceedings and the 2020 election will and his sycophants will do in an attempt to out the est human-rights leaders Ireland has ever produced: reveal the answer to that timeless question.

BIR History Recalling the deadly tempest off Cohasset in 1849 170 years ago, tragedy engulfed two coffin ships; and the local citizens braved the waves to help By Peter F. Stevens could stay the waves,” which pulled the brig “deep into passengers clinging to the brig’s pieces, he might well BIR Staff the depths of Hell.” have been able to rescue some of them. On Memorial Day of this year, a throng of some On the shore, the boatmen of Cohasset – Yankees The tragedy claimed one last victim on the Cohasset 600 people gathered at the dedication of a permanent with little affinity for the Irish – left prejudice on the shore. An Irishwoman who had rushed to the scene memorial on Deer Island to Irish emigrants who had beach as they tried again and again to launch the from Boston in hopes that her infant daughter and her fled the Great Hunger – An Gorta Mor –but perished town’s lifesaving boats into the crashing surf. Led by sister had survived the shipwreck found their corpses of disease and malnutrition at the island’s quarantine Captain Daniel T. Lothrop, a Cohasset “salt,” Elizabeth beneath a sheet on the sand. “The infant [was] tightly station. It is fitting to remember those ill-fated sons Lothrop wrote, the rescuers “struggled through the folded in the sister’s arms,” Elizabeth Lothrop remem- and daughter of the “old sod,” and it is equally fitting enormous waves for nearly forty-five minutes before bered. “The mother died of heartbreak.” to recall the tragedy that struck two Boston-bound reaching the area of the St. John. It was then that Soon enough, the matter of a proper ceremony for “coffin ships” 170 years ago this month. they noticed the longboat rowing to shore, with Cap- the Catholic dead was raised. As the Ancient Order of The heartbreaking saga of how catastrophe engulfed tain Oliver [of the St. John] and the crew of the ship. Hibernians records note: “It was then that the nearest desperate Irish immigrants off the Massachusetts shore The captain made no mention to the lifesavers that priest, Father John T. Roddan, of Quincy, was asked to – even as disaster hit, common humanity trumped passengers had been left behind on the wreck to fend come to Cohasset. It was within a day or two after the nativist prejudice for an all-too-brief moment. – es- for themselves. Accordingly, the lifeboat proceeded to storm that Father Roddan blessed the great common pecially resonates in 2019, as America frays along the Kathleen, the rowers were unaware that numbers grave that held the remains for forty-five emigrants. political, nativist, racial, ethnic, and religious seams of people may yet have been desperately clinging to This, in turn, served as a catalyst for Cohasset Catholics that mirror those of 1849. the remains of the St. John. The magnitude of this to begin petitioning Boston for a church of their own.” Henry David Thoreau had never seen anything like tragedy only became apparent after the lifesavers had In 1914, the Order of Hibernians raised a 19-foot it. On October 9, 1849, as he wandered the shore at returned to shore and learned that the emigrants had Celtic cross near the victims’ common cemetery. To- Cohasset, he gaped at the wreckage of the Brig St. been left stranded on the wreck. day, on display at the Cohasset Maritime Museum John, a Boston-bound merchantman that had set sail The rescuers managed to aid only the Kathleen in is all that is left of the ill-fated brig: a trunk, a small from Ireland “laden with emigrants” fleeing the Great the end. Most of the St. John’s passengers perished in writing desk, and a piece of one of the ship’s pulleys. Famine. The vessel was one of 60 emigrant ships, or the towering waves. Over the next few days, 45 bodies Many of the locals who had witnessed the tragedy and aptly named “coffin ships,” lost at sea or smashed upon washed ashore, and the townspeople buried them in its aftermath could not shake the images. Elizabeth crags off America’s eastern coast. a common grave. An exact total was never possible to Lothrop would write that “such a set of half-drowned, As Thoreau surveyed the scene, he poured into his ascertain. At least 99 people drowned; 11 survived. half-naked…frightened creatures [survivors] my eyes notebook a torrent of words that captured the gut- In all, up to 145 may have been lost. never beheld. . . . This horrible shipwreck and the wrenching scene: “I saw many marble feet and matted Among the most heart-rending stories of the disas- continual picking up of dead bodies on our beach has heads as the cloths were raised, and one livid, swollen ter was that of Galwayman Patrick Sweeney and his so excited my mind that I . . . shall never get over it.” and mangled body of a drowned girl—who probably had family. Sweeney, his wife, and their nine children Today, in 2018, all too many Irish Americans have intended to go out to service in some American family. had boarded the vessel in hopes of a new and better forgotten or simply do not care about their families’ … Sometimes there were two or more children, or a life in Boston. As the brig broke apart on the rocks, immigrant ancestors. They were once “the other,” the parent and child, in the same box, and on the lid would Patrick could no nothing as his wife and eight of their targets of nativist rage. Still, perhaps there is some perhaps be written with red chalk, ‘Bridget such-a-one, children vanished in the frothing waves. Clutching historical hope in that long-ago tragedy when Yankee and sister’s child.’” his three-year-old daughter, Agnes, he jumped into the Protestants rowed into the gale, risking their lives to Just two days earlier, the brig, five weeks out of water and swam frantically towards the longboat. A aid desperate, terrified immigrants floundering within Galway Bay had been hurled by a gale onto the jag- massive wave broke across father and daughter. They, sight of America’s “Golden Door.” ged rocks of Grampus Ledge. A second “coffin ship,” too disappeared, their bodies never found. On the 170th anniversary of the tragedy, the Irish the Kathleen, grounded safely nearby on a sand bar. Adding additional agony to the fate of the Sweeneys men, women, and children who perished in the tem- As the St. John broke in two on the rocks, immigrants and so many of their fellow immigrants and pointing pest off Cohasset deserve the same remembrance and and crewmen thrashed in the foaming surf. Eyewit- a finger at Captain Oliver, Captain Lothrop would reflection as their kindred immigrants who never made ness Elizabeth Lothrop wrote that “no human power testify that if he had only been told that there were it off Deer Island. Page 6 October 2019 BOSTON IRISH Reporter bostonirish.com Irish International Immigrant Center An agency accredited by US Department of Justice One State Street, 8th Floor, Boston, MA 02109 (617) 542-7654 Fax (617) 542-7655 Website:iiicenter.org Email: [email protected]

Recovery Month & Suicide Prevention Month Faye Regan: Learning – Every September we mark both Recovery Month and Suicide Prevention Month, two life-saving themes how to juggle in America and critical wellness issues. Everyone has been either This year, Faye Regan same program is “try to directly, or indirectly affected by suicide loss, a struggle chose to live in Boston as meet up with someone in with self-harm, the pain of substance use and the joy a part of the J-1 IWT pro- your field who did a similar of recovery. The Wellness Services team at the IIIC gram, accepting multiple course over here on the J-1 is here to assist you and your families throughout challenges as she em- who can tell you how they the year with direct care, help, and resources. We barked on this adventure. found their position. See if celebrate this year’s recovery-month theme “Together She also found herself they can look at your CV we are stronger” and the critical message for 2019, juggling multiple tasks to see if there is anything the suicide prevention theme “Be The One To Ask.” once the visa application that can make it more As social workers we know that communities create process began, such as applicable to your field.” change and that we all have a role to play in looking finding an internship and Ultimately, Faye was able out for one another. We can help you have the difficult adapting to a new culture. to secure an internship conversations, create change and find the hope. Please She has been learning to here in Boston that will be in touch for any free and confidential questions you be both focused and prag- further her career, a biol- may have, or support you may need. matic. ogy research internship at Rachel Reisman, LICSW; [email protected]; In handling the most Jnana Therapeutics. 617-542-7654 Ext. 14 difficult part of the J-1 Already reflecting back FB page: Irish Outreach & Wellness Services; sam- sha.gov; Be The1ToAsk. experience, which accord- on the experience, Faye Faye Regan enjoying a laugh while focusing on ing to many is finding an claims that “having Ameri- her next steps. internship, Faye discov- can experience is a real ered the value of network- competitive advantage. It hard, as there’s a strong tive science and I’ve gotten ing. Her advice for future shows you are adaptable work ethic here. Boston is exposure to this in a way I exchange visitors on the but also that you can work home to incredibly innova- could never at home.” Hav- ing been successful in this program, Faye will surely IIIC marks 30 years at Solas Awards gala be prepared for whatever comes next. Oct. 10, Boston on Oct. 10 will be a recep- efforts to protect immi- Harbor Hotel tion style evening that grant communities, stop IIIC attends South Seen as Boston’s Wel- includes live music, food prejudiced efforts to add a Boston Street Festi- come Center to all new- and drink from the Boston citizenship question to the val – The IIIC’s Irish comers, the Irish Interna- Harbor Hotel’s celebrated 2020 census, and end the Outreach Coordinator & tional Immigrant Center menu, and a standing family separation policy Recruitment Manager, is celebrating 30 years of program highlighting the at our southern border. In Ann Marie Byrne, at- educating, advocating and stories of hope facilitated 2017, Leo Varadkar was tended the South Boston caring for families coming by our community’s sup- elected leader of Fine Gael Street Festival on Sat., to Boston from Ireland port. Join us as we mark and then appointed taoise- Sept. 14th. Ann Marie met and around the world. The the occasion at our annual ach, becoming the nation’s many new friends and con- IIIC is proud to announce Solas Awards, and cel- first openly gay head of nected with old friends as this year’s Solas Awards ebrate with the friends and government. During his well while spreading the honorees: Massachusetts partners who have made years in office, Varadkar word about our services Attorney General Maura our journey possible! Visit has proved a strong leader and community. It was Healey, Irish Prime Min- iiicenter.org or contact of inclusive Irish politics. particularly wonderful to ister Leo Varadkar, and Megan Miller at mmiller@ Tony Rodriguez, a Bos- see many Irish families Tony Rodriguez, a Boston iiicenter.org to learn more. ton high school senior, will enjoying the event and Public Schools high school Since her election as the now be able to pursue his to have the chance to tell senior. state’s attorney general, dream of going to college them more about our Cen- This year’s special event Maura Healey has led and going into business. ter and what is happening this fall. As always, the kids coloring competition was a big hit. Thank you WELLNESS to the organizers of the South Boston Street Fes- tival for another fantastic One of the families that Ann Marie Byrne got to SERVICES year. meet at the South Boston Street Festival. We’re here to help!

Our door is always open if you need to talk, problem solve, or figure out the next step. We offer free and con- fidential support to all Irish and Irish Americans whether you are a newcomer or long-time resident of the US.

WE PROVIDE • Counseling for Depression, Anxiety & Substance Abuse • • Suicide Prevention & Crisis Support • • Health Insurance Information • • Irish Language Classes • • Workshops •

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IRISH INTERNATIONAL IMMIGRANT CENTER IMMIGRATION LEGAL ASSISTANCE

The Irish International Immigrant Center’s immigration attorneys and social workers are available for all immigrants during this time of uncertainty and concern in our community. We are closely following the changes in immigration policies, and are available for confidential legal consultations, and case representation. At weekly legal clinics, you can receive a free and confidential consultation with staff and volunteer attorneys. For information, or if you or anyone you know would like to speak to an immigration attorney, please call us at (617) 542-7654.

Upcoming Clinic Schedule Clinics are in the evening – please do not arrive more than 30 minutes before the clinic begins for registration. Attorneys will meet with as many people as possible during clinics, but we cannot guarantee that everyone will be seen.

Downtown Boston IIIC, One State Street, 8th Floor, Boston MA 02109 Tuesday, September 17 th and October 1 st, registration at 3.30pm Monday, November 11 th, registration at 5.00pm

Citizenship Clinics IIIC, One State Street, 8th Floor, Boston MA 02109 Wednesdays from 10am-1pm Walk-ins are welcome!

Our Downtown Boston location is fully accessible by public transportation. Phone: 617.542.7654 | Fax: 617.542.7655 | www.iiicenter.org bostonirish.com October 2019 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 7 Traveling People The spirt of the Celts’ Samhain thrives today as Halloween holiday By Judy Enright Over the centuries, the ral. The program of events still many mysterious Special to the BIR popes in Rome worked mixes family-friendly ad- standing stones and ruins October is a wicked long and hard to recraft ventures with late-night from pre-Christian times and wonderful month of Samhain as a Christian antics. in the county, including ghoulies and ghosties, celebration of saints and There will be spectacles Newgrange, a Neolithic black cats, jack-o-lan- souls. But Oct. 31 soon on water, seances in com- stone age passage tomb terns, witches, haunted became known as All plete darkness, dress-up listed as a World Heritage Congratulations to lovely Ashford Castle in houses, and so much fun Hallows Eve, or Hallow- screenings in the dead Site. Cong, Co. Mayo, which was recently confirmed as the world celebrates een. There is no mention of night and much more. Newgrange is part of as the first 5-star hotel in Ireland to be awarded Halloween. of Halloween in America Stay up-to-date on every- a complex of monuments the GREENMark Plastic Smart Standard for its Don’t think for a minute until the early 19th cen- thing happening during built along a bend of the efforts in responsible tourism and its commitment that Ireland doesn’t know tury - after the Irish came the festival using #Bite- River Boyne known col- to remove all single use plastics from the property about Halloween because, here to escape the Famine MeDublin and find the fes- lectively as Brú na Bóinne. by 2022. after all, this annual and brought along their tival on Facebook, Twit- The other two primary Ashford Castle is owned by Red Carnation Hotel spooky occasion actually ancient customs. ter and Instagram. monuments there are group, which in collaboration with the TreadRight started there as a pagan By the early 20th centu- WESTPORT HOUSE Knowth (the largest) and foundation, is participating in the #MakeTravelMat- religious festival known ry, American commercial- HALLOWEEN FEST Dowth. Throughout the ter initiative to ensure that tourism has a positive as Samhain. There have ization of Halloween had A Halloween Fest with area, there are as many impact on people and communities. been modifications down begun, with postcards, many activities will be as 35 smaller mounds. See figurines, masks and cos- held at Westport House spiritsofmeath.ie for more the centuries – such as scenic wild nature walks. carving pumpkins instead tumes, making Halloween in Westport, Co. Mayo, details. oners in the 18th century. one of the most profitable from Oct. 26-31, 11 a.m. HALLOWEEN IN Throughout the Gaol’s See Greenanmaze.com of turnips – but the basic for more. traditions still exist. periods of the year for to 5 p.m. BELFAST long history, inmates were retailers – often more prof- The 18th-century his- Belfast’s biggest Hal- subject to torture, starva- A weeklong event of In ancient Celtic times, ‘Halloween Happenings’ Samhain signaled the end itable than Christmas. toric house will be trans- loween event offers plenty tion, and death for even America has had such an formed into a (not too) of weird and wonderful the smallest of crimes. is planned at Lullymore of summer and beginning Heritage Park in Co. of the harsh winter. It was impact on Halloween that scary haunted house for activities and events at lo- The Gaol is a great many people believe it is the week (suitable for cations like The Slipways setting for the museum’s Kildare mixing terror time to celebrate the har- and fun. Bringing out the vest and anticipate the an American invention little ones), and the at- and Titanic Belfast from eerie night tours, where rather than from ancient tractions and activities Oct. 26-31. visitors can mingle with ghouls and treats over darker half of the year. this week are haunted As the two time periods Ireland. are guaranteed to cast The entertainment fea- ghosts in one of Ireland’s BRAM STOKER a spell over witches and tures street theatre and most haunted buildings. holograms, terror train crossed, the dead were trips, treasure hunts, said to return, so large FESTIVAL warlocks! Head to the walkabouts, wicked arts See wicklowhistoricgaol. The Bram Stoker Festi- Haunted Estate House, and crafts workshops, com for more. and zombie attacks. For fires were lit to ward off Greenan Museum and kids, there are both indoor any evil spirits. As the val 2019 in Dublin promis- transformed into a spooky fairground rides, and a es something for everyone old mansion for Halloween range of hot food, drinks, Maze in Rathdrum, Co. and outdoor play areas Middle Ages progressed, Wicklow, hosts “The along with Halloween so did fire festivals, during its four-day/night Fest. For more informa- sweets and Halloween program of events over tion, contact: westport- tasty treats. The evening Haunted Maze” Hal- fun and games. See lully- with bonfires becoming loween event each year moreheritagepark.com a tradition – to offer the October bank holiday house.ie draws to a close with the weekend, Oct. 25-28. SPIRITS OF MEATH largest fireworks display in addition to Greenan for more. protection from fairies Museum’s ‘Nightmare Enjoy Ireland when- and witches. Ancestors For the uninitiated, FESTIVAL in the city. See visitbel- Bram Stoker,the author of From Oct. 6 to Nov. 3, fast.com for more. at the Museum.” This ever and wherever you might cross over during successful fun-day is go. There are many more this time too, so Celts Dracula, lived and worked have fun by day and fright AND THERE’S MORE in Dublin. by night throughout Co. Wicklow’s Historic Gaol frequently a sell-out, activities and things to see dressed as monsters and as tours for everyone in in October. Visit Ireland. animals to ward off the The Bram Stoker Festi- Meath at the Spirits of is a museum that gives val celebrates the gothic, Meath Festival. The high visitors the opportunity the family are available. com for more places to go, fairies that might try to The grounds include tea accommodation listings, kidnap them. the mysterious, the after- kings once ruled from the to see what life was like dark and the supernatu- Hill of Tara and there are behind bars for Irish pris- rooms, farm animals and advice, and more.

COUNTRY FAIRS One of Ireland’s greatest and colt foal of registered rural events is the coun- parents, along with the try fair. There are many perpetual cup for the best around the country during pony of the fair. Horse- the year and in the fall. shoeing demonstrations The historic Maam Cross and a horseshoe throwing Fair, a one-day event, is on competition are among Tues., Oct. 29 this year, at many attractions planned the Connemara crossroads for this year’s fair. For by Peacocke’s hotel. It more information, email: stems from the tradition [email protected] of local farmers selling Another fun fair is the surplus produce there to Achill Island Sheep Show, supplement the meager which this year is Sun., living they had eked from Oct. 13, outside Patten’s the rocky landscape. Bar in Derreens, Co. Mayo. This fair has grown This is the 33rd annual over the years to become show and it’s always jam- a major event that fea- packed and interesting to tures cattle, sheep, and attend. farm produce, as well as There are many more the beautiful Connemara agricultural shows around ponies. The years we’ve the country in the autumn attended, we’ve also seen and they’re great fun to goats, ferrets, dogs and attend. puppies, geese and ducks for sale. It’s a fascinating Right: Fall fairs in Ire- fair for visitors. land attract hundreds This year’s event fea- and are fun to visit. This tures trophies and cash was in Connemara and prizes for the best filly foal seen from a hotel tower. Judy Enright photos

Sheep fairs like this one in Co. Mayo are a popular attraction in Ireland in You just might meet a new friend at an Irish fair. the autumn. Page 8 October 2019 BOSTON IRISH Reporter bostonirish.com Happenings at the ICCNE

FUNCTION ROOMS AVAILABLE Did you know our Function Rooms & Marquee Tent are available to rent for private functions? Communions, Christenings, Private Parties and Weddings - all welcome. In house catering and full bar available. Call Sophie to book at 781 821 8291 x111 200 New Boston Drive, Canton, MA 781-821-8291 www.irishculture.org bostonirish.com October 2019 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 9 A spiritual bond with nature is integral to Christine Hedden’s music and dance By Sean Smith Special to the BIR For Boston musician, singer, dancer, and composer Christine Delphine Hedden, memories don’t always reside solely in the mind. The red bow adorning her fiddle’s pegbox, for example, is a remembrance of her second visit to Ireland, where she attended “Willie Week” – the Willie Clancy Summer School, Ireland’s largest traditional music summer program – and made some cherished friend- ships, including one with the bow’s previous owner. The music Hedden plays also is often an evocation of people, places, and events, or periods of her life, that have shaped her personal and artistic de- velopment. Perhaps it’s a tune from Irish tradition, or from renowned Irish fiddlers like Tommy Peoples and Vincent Broderick. Or a composition of her own, drawing on her mani- fold interests and influences, including not only traditional Irish or American but contem- porary classical, jazz and elec- tronic music. Hedden showcases the tradi- tional/folk facet of her oeuvre on her recently released first CD, “When the Aster Blooms,” comprised primarily of original tunes and songs. Other tunes include Peoples’ “Black Pat’s,” Christine Delphine Hedden’s album “When the Aster Blooms” features many of her original tunes and songs. Broderick’s “The Milky Way,” Barbara Hedden photo Sean Ryan’s “The Nightingale” and a traditional reel, “Bea percussive dancing enriches the Growing up on a Christmas tree with “Up with People,” began production of “Riverdance” and Mae’s.” rhythm and sounds not unlike farm on the edge of a woodland, going to a weekly slow jam was captivated. The show was “It just seemed to make sense the spatter of rain drops. Hedden loved to run around in session of New England contra a major catalyst for her interest to put an album together,” These pastoral landscapes the fields and – inspired by her dance and related music (“I in Irish music, but also drew her says Hedden, who moved to also form the backdrop – and father Dan’s readings of Tolk- would do my homework in the to Irish dance. Boston four years ago and has sometimes become characters ien – “pretend to be a hobbit.” car,” she recalls, “but I was al- “There was no way not to performed locally at Club Pas- in and of themselves – in Hed- Having a pair of biologists for lowed not to finish it”). Later be stunned by seeing Michael sim, The Burren Backroom, den’s songs. parents – and Dan in particular, on, when Hedden was in college Flatley, Jean Butler, and the BCMFest, and Somerville’s Arts Here we are together with his knowledge of the area’s and had become well immersed others,” she says. at the Armory. “I had all this Walkin’ slowly by the river geography – also helped inform in traditional music, she and Although it took several years material that I’d written over And down the hill from sunset her sense of place and apprecia- Dan formally began to play as before she was able to find an a long period of time, but there cliffs tion for nature. a duo, Headin’ Home; they still Irish dance school, Hedden are not a lot of opportunities to And by the oceanside “That whole environment was work together now and then, and danced competitively through- share your own stuff in a ses- just so important to me,” she Dan appears on three tracks on out high school. In college, she sion; it’s just not the right place. Here we are together says. “Having the freedom to “When the Aster Blooms.” began learning the improvisa- And while I might perform them Sittin’ down beside the river explore, literally and metaphori- Over time, even as she became tional style of Irish dance, under in concert, sometimes I don’t And in gardens full of roses cally, the world and its natural more engaged in Irish tradi- the tutelage of Nic Gareiss and specifically identify the tunes At the top of slow inclines features became a big part of tional music and the fiddle – later Kieran Jordan. or songs I’ve written – besides, (from “When the Aster who I was, and am today.” studying with the likes of Martin It is these various experiences concert memory isn’t always for- Blooms”) But it’s not just nostalgia of Hayes and Boston-area fiddler of artistic and personal growth ever, so the audience might not Lovely lady walk with me youth that explains Hedden’s af- George Keith, among others – some that came with risks recall the ones that are mine.” Through the flowers and the finity for flora and fauna. Those – Hedden found herself drawn and costs – Hedden channels Some of Hedden’s tunes and fields romps in the fields also fueled to other genres, and to con- on “When the Aster Blooms.” songs, such as the title track, Take my hand and run around her musical imagination, and template how their individual But the timeline also covers the convey a bucolic, rural impres- And we’ll see what time reveals early on in elementary school characteristics and traits might recent, not just the distant past. sion just by their names: “The (from “Downriver”) she began writing songs to help be more widely understood and The album’s two final tracks Firefly,” “Rainwater’s,” “Down- bring her fantasy adventures to appreciated: “Can the nuances of relate to the connection – one river,” “Catskill Mountain Casting lots with ivory bones: life. This led to music lessons, traditional music be translated that goes beyond musical – that Road,” “Cunnigar Blackber- Acorns, flowers and old pine and to her taking up viola. By in classical notation?” she says. he has forged during the past ries,” “Kellogg Street Peaches.” cones. then, having heard enough “Can people in one musical com- few years with Caoimhín Ó And listening to “The Firefly,” You left me here upon the sea Irish traditional music to be munity experience the dignity, Fearghail, a multi-instrumen- for instance, a leisurely paced With only angel’s wings for thoroughly smitten, and “with complexity, and beauty of music talist from Co. Waterford and jig played by Hedden in her company. a fifth-grader’s logic,” she says, from other communities?” These former TG4 Young Musician characteristically lyrical style, (from “Ivory Bones”) Hedden thought she could play questions continue to energize of the Year who is one of the it’s quite easy to visualize a a viola just like a fiddle – despite her work as a musician and more in-demand accompa- summer evening on the edge of Taken together, these tunes the fact that the viola is tuned composer. nists in Irish traditional music a vast meadow; or, with the reel and songs attest to Hedden’s a fifth lower. Another important strand in nowadays. On “When the Aster “Rainwater’s,” to imagine seek- spiritual bond with the natural Not long afterwards, she and Hedden’s life is dance. She start- Blooms,” he plays flute and bou- ing shelter under a tree during world, a component of her child- Dan, a guitarist whose musical ed out very young on ballet, but zouki on two tracks and guitar a sudden shower – Hedden’s hood in western Connecticut. background included a stint at six she went to see the original on four others. Principles, ambitions, self-deception on display in “Admissions” at SpeakEasy Stage Company By R. J. Donovan by SpeakEasy Stage Com- of his best friend, whose In August, she spent came in second on the Irish Special to the BIR pany from Oct. 25 through grades are not quite as time in Ireland visiting version of “Dancing With Boston has been Nov. 30. stellar. And whose mother family, many of whom are The Stars” and Dioreann is splashed across interna- Written by the provoca- is Sherri’s best friend. And fairly well known. Her late hosting a morning break- tional headlines this year tive playwright Joshua who just happens to be father was raised on a farm fast show on RTE 2fm. thanks to the “Varsity Harmon (“Significant Oth- mixed-race. in Bellharbour, Co. Clare. Maureen’s father came Blues” college admissions er” and “Bad Jews”), this Maureen Keillor takes Her uncle, Chris Droney, to the States in the mid- bribery scandal being timely, dark comedy tells on the role of Sherri at is a legendary, nine times 50s. “He grew up in a played out in our water- of Sherri Rosen-Mason, a SpeakEasy. A much-loved Senior All-Ireland Concer- family of five boys,” she Maureen Keiller plays front courtrooms. Clear- liberal admissions officer talent on the Boston stage, tina Champion as well as said in a recent interview, Sherri Rosen-Mason in “Admissions.” ly, there should be no working for a small prep she includes “The Little an award-wining ambas- “and of the five, four of separate system of qualifi- school in New Hamp- Dog Laughed,” “Between sador for the arts in Clare. them emigrated to the ber of the Irish American cations for the wealthy and shire. She has spent 15 Riverside and Crazy,” Her cousins are the Gar- Hartford area. My uncle Home in Glastonbury as privileged. Yet are other years diligently working “Nine,” and “The Women” rihy sisters – Aoibhín, Ailb- Chris stayed. He took care were all of his brothers.” yardsticks being used, to diversify the student among her credits. She he, and Doireann. Aside of the farm.” When she visited Ire- perhaps not immediately body, and is enormously also holds an Elliot Norton from being prominent She remembers that land, she hadn’t intended as marked? proud of her mission. Award as Outstanding social media influencers in there was “an Irish music to use a car. “I was little Which brings us to But then her son is Actress plus three IRNE Ireland, all have been in- station that we listened nervous about driving “Admissions,” presented denied a place at an Ivy Awards as Best Support- volved in the arts. Among to every Sunday morn- on the other side of the League school in favor ing Actress. other things, Aoibhín ing. My father was a mem- Continued on page 11) Page 10 October 2019 BOSTON IRISH Reporter bostonirish.com trying to create anything, O’Riley’s feet are in the whatever it is, staying foreground, shuffling con- ‘From the Floor’ tracks moods, focused and confident can tinuously in rhythmic pat- be difficult. Preparing for terns, juxtaposed against a performance is one thing, Stevens’ flying fingers as feelings that go into Irish dance because once it’s over, it’s he plays a set of reels on done; making something concertina. After a while, McGowan had while visit- that’s supposed to last en- the feet and fingers seem ing Wright in Lexington tails a lot of responsibility to become characters in during Thanksgiving of and pressure. I’m usually and of themselves, as if 2015. Finally, the two de- pretty good at talking my- presenting an order vs. cided to put thought into self out of good ideas. But chaos set piece. It’s not un- action, so they collected Rebecca and I supported til the video’s last minute their dance shoes, found one another, and just kept that you see dancers and a place on the house’s going.” musician in full. slate pathway that seemed The most difficult deci- This openness to creativ- right, and used an iPhone sion, McGowan reveals, ity, and willingness to in- camera and CD player to was where to do the film- corporate different kinds make a prototype video. It ing. “We visited practi- of images and tones, was was a start. cally every concert, per- at the forefront of “From Having hatched the formance or assembly hall the Floor,” says O’Riley. concept, McGowan and in the Route 128 area. And “We not only wanted O’Riley began to think in in the end, we finally went to show the dancing, we earnest about the dances back to my grandmother’s wanted to give a sense as they wanted to put to- house. It was a long road, to what we were feeling A scene from the video “From the Floor,” with (L-R) Jackie O’Riley, Rebecca gether, while looking in but a good one, to get there. and experiencing in that McGowan and Chris Stevens. their circle of friends and We often turn to what is time and place – what (Continued from page 1) one which has much to do viewer into the ‘small acquaintances for help in the most obvious choice.” it was like to be in Peg’s sociated videos of the pair with the venue. Instead parts’ of Irish dance and producing high-quality One major advantage to house, what it was like to dancing in tandem or solo of an artificially lit dance address how it’s pre- videos. Among those they using the house, she adds, be with our friends, enjoy- to music provided by ac- studio, the filming took sented,” says O’Riley. “A turned to were Gourley, was “that it was a home: ing the moment. We also cordionist Chris Stevens place in in a room of a Vic- popular perception of Irish who in addition to playing a welcoming place for us cherished the opportunity – a member of the Maine- torian house belonging to dance is that it’s high- fiddle assisted with the to gather and talk and to put together something based quartet The Press McGowan’s grandmother, energy pieces taking place audio recording and mix- work. My grandmother that’s associated with all Gang – and local fiddler Peg Wright, with trunks, on a big stage. But Irish ing, plus dancer Matthew is an artistic and creative the teachers, mentors, and Nathan Gourley; each suitcases, furniture, and dance is a smaller, more Olwell and musician Katie person herself, so I think friends who have inspired video “track” consists of a other knick-knacks (some personal activity, too, and McNally to aid the overall that helped make it all the us through the years.” tune or medley of tunes, of which make cameo ap- there are different moods production. more comfortable for us.” The fact that her grand- to which O’Riley and Mc- pearances in the videos) and feelings that go into Stevens was a key re- Still, the space present- mother’s house became Gowan dance traditional, pressed against the walls. each dance – hornpipes, cruit, notes O’Riley: “We ed some challenges, such such an integral part of improvised, or original Thanks to several large for instance, have a kind of went up to Chris’s house, as limiting the variety the project has taken on an steps. windows, the room is solemnity to them. We also and talked about tune of camera angles, which added significance for Mc- “From the Floor” defies fairly bathed in sunlight, wanted to convey the lan- choices and transitions, made one idea of McGowan Gowan, since her grand- easy categorization. While projecting images of the guage of sean-nós, which what would work, what and O’Riley difficult to mother is in the midst of O’Riley and McGowan’s window panes on the is focused on the knees felt right. We collaborated execute. Then they had a selling the property. stepping is often shown in sturdy-looking wood floor; and ankles, and so there with Chris early enough brainstorm. “I let Jackie and the crew full view or in close-ups of in some scenes, you can see are a lot of subtleties that that he weighed in on our “We wanted to have take the lead in figuring varying degrees, these are flecks of dust floating gen- may not be immediately pieces as we were creating just our feet and just out what aspects of the not instructional videos, tly over the dancers’ feet. apparent from a distance.” them, and that was a big Chris’ hands in the same house would be featured, per se. Sometimes, in fact, So perhaps the best Central to the project, help.” frame, but we couldn’t get and seeing it through their Stevens and Gourley, or way to think of “From the she adds, was confronting Still, the process was it right,” says McGowan. eyes was very interesting their instruments, are the Floor” is that it depicts the ephemeral nature of a lengthy one, what with “So we piled up some cin- – they keyed in on things I focus of a shot, and neither the holistic event of dance dance itself: “It’s difficult all the participants also derblocks and lay a board never would have thought O’Riley or McGowan is – not just the act, but the for dancers to share what having to make time for across them at just the of,” she says. “So this is a visible. At a few junctures, anticipation of it, the effect they do beyond that mo- various other projects and right height, then we got great memento to have.” dancers, musicians, and and influence of setting, ment on stage. How do priorities – and O’Riley up on the board to dance.” Information about production crew members and of course, the chem- you capture it in a way had to wonder if “From the The result, titled “Reels “From the Floor” is avail- are shown at ease, or chat- istry between dancers and that really communicates Floor” would ever get done. on the Board,” is arguably able at fromthefloordance. ting about the next take. musicians. what you do?” “I look back at it as three the most visually compel- com, where the video can There is a clear artistic “Our over-arching mo- This was the topic of a years of self-doubt,” she ling portion of “From the be downloaded. intent to “From the Floor,” tivation was to bring the conversation O’Riley and laughs. “For most people Floor”: McGowan’s and

30th Anniversary SOLAS AWARDS CELEBRATION

An Taoiseach Tony Rodriguez Attorney General Leo Varadkar BINcA Student Maura Healey Solas Leadership Award Solas Courage Award Solas Service Award

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2019 | BOSTON HARBOR HOTEL For details, contact Megan Miller at 617-695-1554 | [email protected] bostonirish.com October 2019 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 11 Principles, ambitions, self-deception on display in ‘Admissions’ (Continued from page 9) necticut. She later moved be doing. Take a class,” been our 20th anniversary that you are completely in way. You’re laughing, road. Not the wrong side to New York, but a difficult he told her. this year. It’s extremely the arms of people who love but you’re like, ‘Oooohhh, of the road, the other side of audition experience left “So I took a class,” she hard. He was a wonderful, you and get you . . . it’s truly should I be laughing at the road,” she said laugh- her feeling lost. said. And I fell in love, wonderful man. He was humbling. Incredible.” this?’ It’s really dark, but ing. Her cousin Decklin “I said, ‘I don’t know really hard. This is what my biggest fan. He saw And now she’s prepar- so, so funny. And I think wound up driving Mau- what I’m doing here. What I love. This is what I want everything I did.” ing to open another show it will really make people reen, her sister, and niece was I thinking?’” to do.” She lovingly credits And during what turned at SpeakEasy. “Speaking think about their own around. She stayed in the city her late husband Patrick out to be an overwhelming of having your back, they thoughts on how liberal “Driving up the drive- for four years, working with tremendous encour- loss, her tight knit Boston take such good care of their they think they are. As op- way to the farm, it was so at restaurants, until her agement. He passed away theater colleagues drew artists,” she said. “They posed to, if they’re denied emotional. To be back as sister suggested she move just over a year ago follow- her close. are so respectful and really something, [do those same an adult and really appre- to Boston.“I was like, ‘Oh ing a long illness. “I can’t say strongly loving, and they do incred- principles] still apply.” ciate the absolute beauty please! I’ll die of boredom,’” “I married a wonderful enough how incredible this ible work.” Last month R. J. Donovan is edi- of where my father grew she said laughing. “And man,” she said. “He knew community has been with she hosted the company’s tor and publisher of on- up. It was so moving to here I am, over 30 years that I didn’t like doing me through this whole annual fundraising gala. stageboston.com. me. So moving.” later. I fell in love with it hair. He said, ‘Look, if you thing,” she said. “Through In the current cultural ••• Maureen grew up in immediately.” really want to pursue this, my husband’s illness. And climate, Maureen sus- “Admissions,” Oct. 25– Enfield, CT, and her first She studied hairdress- I am here to support any- through his passing. I al- pects audiences will have Nov. 30, Calderwood Pa- stage role was playing ing and took a position thing you want to do.’ So ways knew that the Boston a multitude of personal vilion, 527 Tremont Street, a squirrel in the third at a John Dellaria Salon I am lucky that I had not theater community was re- issues to contend with in Boston. Info: 617-933- grade. She enjoyed per- but eventually tiptoed only the emotional sup- ally special, but when you “Admissions.” She sees 8600 or speakeasystage. forming, participated in back into acting at the port, but also, my husband go through something that it as “a very funny play, com. school shows, did some suggestion of a therapist was able to take care of any is so brutal, and to know but in kind of a cringey community theater and who worked with several bills we had while I started went on to study theater artists. “You’re not doing to try and get myself a at the University of Con- what you’re supposed to name . . . It would have EIRE pub CHC Home Care, Inc. is Boston, Massachusetts’ premiere private Home Care Agency.

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classes start sept, oct & nov | Apply now 1250 Hancock St. Quincy, MA 02169 | 617.934.1710 | quincycollege.edu/fall Page 12 October 2019 BOSTON IRISH Reporter bostonirish.com THE BIR’S CALENDAR OF CELTIC MUSIC EVENTS The Irish Cultural Centre of another accomplished pair of New England in Canton will musicians, Tommy McCarthy feature a combination book and Louise Costello – spouses launch and concert with Tara who happen to be The Bur- O’Grady, a multi-genre singer ren’s owners – on Oct. 23 at who recently published an 7:30 p.m. O’Beirne is a highly on-the-road memoir, “Migrat- lauded singer-songwriter and ing toward Happiness: The guitarist who, in addition to his Soundtrack to My Spiritual solo work, has played with the Awakening,” on Oct. 10 at 7:30 Sharon Shannon Band, Patrick p.m. The daughter of Irish Street, Midnight Well, Andy M. immigrants, and past winner Stewart, Kevin Burke, Andy of the Irish Voice’s Most In- Irvine, and the Waterboys. fluential Woman honor, New A founding member of one of York City-based O’Grady has Ireland’s most beloved tradi- released five albums, with origi- tional music bands, De Dannan, nal music and traditional Irish Gavin has established himself songs marked by arrangements among the finest fiddlers of his that evoke the Jazz Era. generation. McCarthy (fiddle) “Migrating Toward Happi- and Costello (banjo) both took ness” recounts O’Grady’s effort up music in childhood – McCar- to renew her life – at a time thy spent his in London, where when she was at a low ebb – by his parents had emigrated, retracing her grandmother’s while Costello grew up in Gal- 1957 road trip across America way – and have played together in a Chevy Bel Air. The book for more than 30 years. In ad- intertwines her impressions, dition to running The Burren thoughts and observations of and The Bebop (near Berklee Americana with memories of College of Music), the two have her childhood summers at her spearheaded and supported grandparents’ farm in Donegal, numerous causes, such as the and how these all contributed St. Patrick’s Mental Health to her personal soundtrack – Foundation and its Walk in My which she and guitarist Vinny Shoes campaign. McElhinney will recreate at Quebecois trio Genticorum the ICC. will play at the Backroom on Also at the ICC this month Oct. 27 at 4 p.m. – and they is popular Irish country singer won’t be alone. Pascal Gemme T.R. Dallas, on Oct. 5 at 8 p.m. (fiddle, foot percussion, vocals), With a career spanning more Nicholas Williams (flute, accor- than three decades, Dallas – dion, piano, vocals) and Boston- who has also appeared locally at area resident Yann Falquet the Dorchester Irish Heritage (guitar, jaw harp, vocals) pres- Festival and other venues – has ent a polished yet potent sound, made numerous radio and TV fully rooted in the instrumental appearances and toured with and song traditions of Quebec such notable performers as while also mindful of North Johnny Cash, Boxcar Willie, American and European folk Don Williams, and Foster and influences. For this occasion, Allen. they will celebrate the various And on Oct. 19, the center will musical friendships and alli- host its first-everBoston Irish ances formed over the years, Beer Fest, which will include Singer and author Tara O’Grady will be at the Irish Cultural Centre of New England October inviting some special guests to two stages of Irish music, and 10 for a concert and launch of her book Migrating toward Happiness: The Soundtrack to My join them. activities and entertainment for Spiritual Awakening. Winifred Horan, a mem- children and families. ber of two landmark Irish- Details on ICC events are Go to passim.org for tickets White and Smith also will Aaron Jones and fiddler Ben American bands – Cherish the available at irishculture.org. and information. perform on October 27, 2 p.m., Gunnery, who will join her as Ladies and Solas – will play •Tommy Sands, the North- •The Burren Backroom’s at the Wellesley Public Library The Flyaways. excerpts from her new album, ern Irish singer-songwriter characteristically full and di- [wellesleyfreelibrary.org]. •Celtic/Americana singer- “The Memories of Magic,” when widely hailed for memorable verse program of events begins Two generations and two songwriter Ashley Davis re- she comes to the Backroom on anthems to peace, fellowship Oct. 2 at 7:30 p.m. with The iterations of Scottish music are turns to the Backroom on Oct. Oct. 30 at 7:30 p.m. Classically and human rights like “There Jeremiahs, who since emerg- at the Backroom on Oct. 9 at 16 at 7:30 p.m. with her band, trained (she studied at the New Were Roses,” “Daughters and ing several years ago from Dub- 7:30 p.m. Local fiddle-harp duo whose members include Lú- England Conservatory), Horan Sons” and “Carry On,” will lin’s music scene have gained an Jenna Moynihan (from New nasa fiddler Colin Farrell and went on to become a talented perform twice in the Boston enthusiastic following for their York) and Màiri Chaimbeul multi-instrumentalist Dave Irish-style fiddler who, in ad- area this month, at the Boston brand of urban folk, immersed (Isle of Skye) have forged a col- Curley. Davis’s songs often dition to recording 12 albums College Gaelic Roots series in Irish instrumental tradi- laboration that fuses Scottish plumb myths and folklore, and as part of Solas, released three on Oct. 16 at 6:30 p.m., in the tion while evincing a decidedly and Appalachian/old-timey mu- elements of the natural world, solo albums and several other Theology and Ministry Library contemporary lyrical style. Joe sic, with elements of classical to make for an oft-otherworldly duo and trio recordings. On on BC’s Brighton Campus (see Gibney’s vocals have a true and jazz, as captured on their presentation of stories and set “The Memories of Magic,” she bc.edu/irish.html); and on Oct. gravitas, edgy in one moment widely praised 2017 album pieces. Her recently released connects her Irish and classical 19 at 8 p.m. at the New Moon or incredibly tender in another, “One Two.” Alan Reid first new album, “Burning Down,” backgrounds, sharing melodies Coffeehouse in Haverhill [new- supported by James Ryan (gui- captured attention in the 1980s sees Davis make a significant and tunes going back to her mooncoffeehouse.org]. Read a tar, bouzouki, harmonica) and with groundbreaking Scottish departure in style, utilizing childhood as well as newly recent Boston Irish Reporter Frenchmen Jean-Christophe group the Battlefield Band, samples and electronic sounds. composed and more obscure interview with Sands at https:// Morel (fiddle, bouzouki) and skillfully blending synthesiz- •Singer-songwriter Bob tunes and musical soundscapes. bit.ly/2m6vLMN. Julien Bruneteau (flute, whis- ers, electric piano and organ Bradshaw, a Cork native Accompanying Horan at the •Scotland’s Talisk, whose tle) – crisp rhythm, superbly with fiddle, bagpipes, whistles, now residing in Boston, will Backroom show will be Utsav propulsive, tightly-knit blend delivered fills and breaks, and and other acoustic instruments. showcase his latest album, Lal on piano and Dan Faiella of Scottish and Irish music flat-out gorgeous harmonizing. But he has long been a song- “Queen of the West,” on Oct. 18 on guitar. elements has earned them The band has brought its song- writer of considerable merit, his at 7 p.m. Bradshaw’s brand of Tickets, details for Burren widespread critical and public writing talents – with a keen compositions exploring Scottish country-rock/acoustic folk-pop Backroom concerts are avail- acclaim, kicks off Club Passim’s sense of language, humor, and history and historical figures is enriched by a songwriting able at burren.com/music.html. October schedule on Oct. 1 at turn of phrase – to the fore of but also the life and times of approach that can be obser- •The Gore Place Carriage 8 p.m. The enthralling melodic late; no less an authority than “common” people. vational, introspective, eco- House series in Waltham hosts chemistry between Mohsen Christy Moore singled them out •Steph Geremia, who plays nomical yet eloquent, sly, and O’Carolan Etcetera on Oct. Amini (concertina) and Hayley as winners of the 2015 Trad- on Oct. 13 at 4 p.m., combines endearingly tender. “Queen of 8 at 7:30 p.m. This local trio Keenan (fiddle) is bolstered by Connect Songwriter Showcase. trad Irish flute and whistle the West,” his eighth release, draws on three centuries of Graeme Armstrong’s canny gui- The band’s 2018 album “The with a background marked represents a new direction for instrumental folk music, from tar-playing, creating a sound Femme Fatale of Maine” has by, among other things, forays Bradshaw – it’s a modern-day early English dance tunes to that pushes beyond tradition brought them further praise. into world music – such as a concept album built around the selections from the traditions while maintaining ties to it. Opening for The Jeremiahs sojourn in India learning the title character, who assumes of Ireland and Scotland, as Talisk’s honors include the BBC will be the Boston-area duo of bonsuri flute – and collabora- many forms as the songs unfold. well as flavors of New England, Radio 2 Folk Award and Folk Colleen White (vocals, flute, tions with experimental jazz Also on the bill is Carla Ry- Appalachia and Quebecois, Band of the Year from the BBC whistle) and Sean Smith (vo- multi-instrumentalist Anthony der and The Blue Ribbons played on fiddle, flute, guitar Alba Scots Trad Music Awards; cals, guitar, bouzouki), present- Braxton. Her virtuosity and Trio. and hurdy-gurdy. Amini also was the BBC Radio ing mainly traditional music creativity were in full flower Two distinguished members Go to goreplace.org for infor- 2 Folk Awards’ Musician of the from Ireland, Scotland, and on her 2018 album, “Up She of the Irish music revival, mation and tickets. Year for 2018. England with an abundance of Flew,” on which her accompa- Gerry O’Beirne and Frankie good cheer and taste. nists included bouzouki player Gavin, will join forces with A special-issue CD release from Celtic Woman: ‘Ancient Land Deluxe’ On the success of Celtic “Ancient Land Deluxe” current Ancient Land Gold,” traditional songs Glass” along with “Ori- against the backdrop of Woman’s “Ancient Land” featuring 11 tracks never Tour. “Siuil A Ruin” and “Ball- noco Flow. ” the historic Johnstown CD release and the 2019 before available on the Songs include the brand room of Romance” and Ancient Land was re- Castle in County Wexford, tour, the group – Megan original digital version new compositions “Ne- “Bean Phaidin” alongside corded in Real World Ireland. It was a concert Walsh, Mairéad Carlin, of the album: 2 from wgrange” and “The En- brand new versions of Studios in the UK the spectacular that is still Éabha McMahon and Ancient Land the CD; 5 chanted Way,” renditions timeless favorites “Ama- summer of 2018 with the running on PBS nation- violinist Tara McNeill from the Ancient Land of classics “Over The zing Grace” and “Danny group’s accompanying ally. – last month released the DVD; and 4 from the Rainbow” and “Fields of Boy” and “The Parting live performance filmed bostonirish.com October 2019 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 13 for his phenomenal work on flute and uilleann pipes; the jaunty “Dúlaman CD Reviews Finley, a Philadelphia native whose collaborations Na Binne Buí,” and include Mick Moloney and Dylan Foley, has studied another of hop jigs, By Sean Smith with such exponents of the Sligo fiddle tradition as Rose “The Promenade/The This month’s column focuses on recent recordings Flanagan and Brian Conway; Stevens, an accomplished Surround/Comb Your by a pair of Irish/Celtic trios with Massachusetts and melodeon and concertina player and member of The Hair and Curl It,” New England connections. Press Gang, here unveils his heretofore lesser-known both sets enlivened New Leaf, “New Leaf” • Based in Western Mas- talent on piano. by Boston-area step sachusetts, this band comprises fiddler Kira Jewett, If New Leaf [see above] evokes a rural New England dancer Jackie O’Riley, a former pupil of Sligo-style master Brian Conway panorama, “The Glory Reel” is suggestive of longtime who appears on two who has performed and taught in the Greater Boston northeast urban hot spots for Irish-American tra- other tracks. area; accordionist John Tabb, part of singer-songwriter ditional music, namely Boston, New York City, and Both Woodson and Sean Tyrell’s short-lived band Apples in Winter and Philadelphia. The tight, brisk playing of Woodson, Finley get solos on the album: Woodson goes to the long a mainstay of the southern New England Irish Finley, and Stevens often recalls Irish dance bands from repertoire of Donegal John Doherty for the high- scene; and vocalist Adam Braunschweig, who also bygone eras, and a lot of their repertoire testifies to land “Lady Ramsay” and reel “Trim the Velvet”; Finley plays guitar and banjo and has been active in several the venerable legacies of Sligo-born New York fiddlers revisits a pair of reels recorded by Morrison, “Paddy on music genres, including as a songwriter. Michael Coleman, Paddy Killoran ,and James Morrison, the Turnpike” and “Jackson’s,” which is an expanded Much as its very name conjures up a New England as well as Donegal fiddlers Mickey and John Doherty, version of the splendid “Dublin Reel.” landscape, New Leaf’s and Leitrim-born flute player John McKenna, among The dynamics are somewhat different when Wood- sound and repertoire, others. At the same time, these three are mindful of, son switches to pipes, of course, but no less enjoyable: while predominantly and open to, more recent influences and developments Check out the jig set “Repeal of the Union/Scotsman Irish, reflects the poly- within the tradition, distilled through recordings or Across the Border,” for example, or the reels “An Bhean glot character in New interactions with friends and acquaintances – many Tincéara/High Road to Galway” – both associated with England traditional of them in the aforementioned three cities. the legendary piper Willie Clancy – or the concluding music. Alongside solid As melody players, Woodson and Finley display track, a meshing of “The Jolly Tinker” with good old Irish trad material like a striking contrast and chemistry. Woodson’s flute- reliable “The Wind That Shakes the Barley.” “Lad O’Bierne’s,” “My playing often has an almost percussive quality to it, And there’s no overlooking Stevens through all of Love Is in America,” while Finley’s fiddling exhibits the Sligo/New York this, who keeps things moving along with alacrity while “The Blackbird” and push on rhythm and tempo, all quite prominent on giving Woodson and Finley plenty of space. He also “The Rainy Day” are a the “Flood on the Holm/Glory Reel” set – the command makes a welcome cameo on melodeon for the reels “The set of Quebecois tunes, both show on the B part of the latter reel in particular Enchanted Lady/The Holy Land/Sailor on the Rock.” for example, and “The Bluemont Waltz,” written by is breathtaking, literally so in the case of Woodson. A The challenge, and the joy, when musicians play New Hampshire fiddler and tunesmith Rodney Miller. combo of marches features a lovely harmony by Woodson together is merging individual repertoires and influ- “Sarah’s Valentine,” a jig composed by Limerick-born at one point on the first (“My Love Has Deceived Me”) ences. It’s a process Woodson, Finley and Stevens have and onetime Boston resident Eamon Flynn, points and his addition of piccolo on the second (“Battle Cry clearly warmed to, as indicated by their sleeve note up the continual infusion immigrants have provided of Munster”), while Finley provides a veritable bounce for “The Wind That Shakes the Barley”: Woodson’s to American music, in New England as elsewhere. to their rendition of the slip jigs “Kitty Come Down version comes from Seamus Ennis, the description The Americana thread, meanwhile, is underlined by to Limerick/Gusty’s Frolics.” Broadening the canvas, reads, Finley’s from Michael Coleman, and “The way Braunschweig’s excursions into flatpicking and jazz- the three also have a go at a trio of highlands (kind of we play it here meets somewhere in the middle.” That flavored accompaniment, notably on the hornpipe set a Donegal take on the Scottish strathspey), including middle ground is a glorious place. [thegloryreel.com] “The Hawk/The Golden Eagle,” and by the three songs he contributes. There’s a very pleasing, unhurried spaciousness to New Leaf and their approach to the music. Tabb does a slow solo to begin the “Bluemont Waltz,” showcasing its lovely nuances, before Jewett and Braunschweig COME VISIT ANY enter to perk up the tempo; the trio takes some time to explore the waltz in its fullness, Jewett adding some well-crafted harmonies and counter-melodies. Similarly, Jewett plays “The Blackbird” as an air, then in its more familiar set dance incarnation with Tabb. Elsewhere, the jig combo “Sarah’s Valentine/ SOMERS PUBS Caledon Line” is about as sweet, relaxed, and tender as they come, and a quartet of polkas is simultaneously LOCATION FOR QUALITY FOOD, sprightly and temperate. Which is not to say New Leaf doesn’t play with inten- sity – the medley of reels, “The Rainy Day/The Penny HOSPITALITY & LIVE MUSIC Candle/The First Year in Buncrana,” is an excellent primer on how to construct and arrange a tune set with an ear to building tension and anticipation. The 7 NIGHTS A WEEK! band also experiments with putting together a set of seemingly disparate elements: “Memories of France,” an unusual jig penned by Eddie Kelly, segueing into Billy McComiskey’s “The Music Teacher,” and finish- ing off with the traditional “My Love Is in America.” The song tracks are charming and affable, thanks to Braunschweig’s mellow, understated delivery: “Johnny Todd,” most recently associated with the late Scottish singer Tony Cuffe, who spent his last years in the Boston area; “Handsome Molly,” to which Braunschweig lends an Appalachian/old-timey flavor; and his own pensive “Nightingale,” which has a singalong-ready chorus: “Gonna find my way, find my way/Gonna find my way by the nightingale’s song.” An ode to one of the most 77 Broad St. 11 Marshall St. celebrated songsters in the natural world seems quite Boston, MA 02109 Boston, MA 02108 25 Union St. apt for a band so strongly rooted in the New England 617.338.5656 617.367.0055 Boston, MA 02108 terrain. [newleafirishband.com] mrdooleys.com greendragonboston.com Will Woodson, Caitlin Finley, and Chris Ste- 617.742.2121 vens, “The Glory Reel” • Although this trio hails hennessysboston.com from Maine, its members are familiar to many in and around Boston, whether appearing at local sessions, performing at area festivals and other events or, in the case of Stevens, teaching at the Boston Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann Music School. Woodson – who also plays as part of another trio, Daymark – is renowned

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SOMERSPUBS.COM Page 14 October 2019 BOSTON IRISH Reporter bostonirish.com bostonirish.com October 2019 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 15 Four honored with Tip O’Neill Diaspora Award

Front row, from left, Diaspora Award winners Daniel Hilferty and Frank McGuinness, Tom O’Neill and his wife Shelley, Pat Doherty, and Patrick Dunican. Gathered in back are Donegal councillors and members of the Tip O’Neill Diaspora Awards committee.

DONEGAL – There spirit of what it is to was a packed house in be Irish, adding that the Inishowen Gateway “he has been read and Hotel on Friday night, witnessed by tens of Sept. 27, as four notable thousands of people here members of the diaspora and abroad and he car- were honored with the ries with him the impact 2019 Tip O’Neill Irish of what it means to be a Diaspora Awards at a true Irish man.” gala ceremony hosted by Describing Tip O’Neill Donegal County Council. as “a complex and high RTÉ presenter Sean achieving benevolent O’Rourke was the mas- man” and a man of “great ter of ceremonies at the eloquence” McGuinness event as the playwright said that he believed that and author Frank Mc- “kindness was at the root Guinness, the developer of all that Tip O’Neill did, Pat Doherty, the lawyer it was also at the root of Patrick Dunican, and the greatest Irish man the businessman Dan- of my generation and as iel Hilferty were cited far as I am concerned of for their outstanding the 20th century, John achievements in their Tip O’Neill Irish Diaspora Awards Ceremony in the Inishowen Gateway Hotel on Friday night. Hume. chosen fields. “Pat Doherty worked Cathaoirleach of Do- year’s recipients Tom for his dad for four years negal County Coun- O’Neill, son of the late in Donegal before he left cil Councillor Nicho- Tip O’Neill, described to go to London where las Crossan explained Patrick Dunican as a he began to make his that “these awards were “real Irish leader” and fortune in development” founded as a way to pay described how he “cre- said O’Neill. “But more tribute to the great deeds ated a national pow- importantly and this is of Tip O’Neill, to honor erhouse of a legal firm what diaspora is, don’t his family connection to situated along the East ever forget where it is this part of the world, Coast of the United you are from, don’t ever and to celebrate not only States. His Irishness is forget what God’s gift the outstanding achieve- recognized and appreci- has given you so you take ments of Tip himself but ated for the leadership Councillor Nicholas that gift and give back.” to recognize, to acknowl- he gives all Americans Tom O’Neill addresses Crossan, Cathaoirleach And that is exactly what the gathering at the of the Donegal County edge, and to honor the but especially the Irish Sean O’Rourke emceed Pat Doherty did, said American community.” Irish Diaspora Awards Council talked about Tip millions of Irish people dinner. the proceedings. O’Neill’s “great deeds.” O’Neill. “What he did or people of Irish decent In response, Patrick to the Titanic Quarter across the globe who Dunican spoke of his O’Neill spoke of Dan job. A true Irish man of this community and I in Belfast, what he has through hard work and strong Irish ancestry Hilferty’s achievements and a great leader in promise you that I will done in the last ten years dedication have excelled saying “I am Irish, I am in the healthcare sector healthcare”. be back and that I will back here in Donegal, in their chosen fields and American, I am Irish and how since 2010 he Hilferty also spoke spread the word to all the taking 100 million euro who through their own American” and prom- has by three times built emotionally about his diaspora that there is no and investing it and generosity of spirit con- ised going forward that the size of his company Donegal connections and place like this beautiful employing hundreds of tinue to champion and he would talk about adding that “he is really said “I leave here tonight place called Donegal.” people doing nothing else support our diaspora.” Donegal and encourage known for the public a very proud son of Do- Tip’s son believes that but good”. Paying homage to this tourism and travel to the health policy element negal. I am very excited Frank McGuinness “cap- county. that he brings to the to be part of the fabric tures the very soul and

Kenneth Lloyd Brian W. O’Sullivan AIF, LUTCF, CLTC, Senior Partner CFP, ChFC, CLU, Senior Partner [email protected] [email protected] Over 50 Years Of Experience

234 Copeland Street, Unit 225 |Quincy, MA 02169 | Office: 617-479-0075 | Fax: 617-479-0071 Ken Lloyd & Brian O'Sullivan are registered representatives of and offers securities, investment advisory and financial planning services through MML Investors Services, LLC, Member SIPC (www.sipc.org). Supervisory Address: 101 Federal Street, Suite 800, Boston, MA 02110. Tel: 617.439.4389. CRN202106-249997 Page 16 October 2019 BOSTON IRISH Reporter bostonirish.com Martin Richard Dorchester Field House pitched for Mt. Vernon Street property By Bill Forry will bring us together as Mt. Vernon Street, an Editor neighbors for sporting open space that is tucked Two well-respected events, birthdays, all in between the McCor- Dorchester institutions sorts of events. It fits our mack school building have joined forces to plan mission of helping kids,” and a parking lot owned a new, $30 million indoor said Bill Richard. “The by the Archdiocese of sports and community idea goes back a number Boston, which owns St. center that would be built of years and it comes from Christopher Church. The on what is now a little- talking to parents here in field goes largely unused used field next to the Mc- Dorchester over the years most of the year. Cormack Middle School at games and practices As first reported in on Columbia Point. The for our kids. So many the Reporter last March, Boys and Girls Clubs of times we’ve been on the BPS officials sought and Dorchester and the Mar- sidelines or in the stands received unanimous con- tin W. Richard Founda- and the rain comes we sent from the School tion submitted their plan we’d say, ‘We wish we had Committee to issue the for the proposed facil- something indoors like RFP last spring. The they have in the suburban A rendering shows the exterior of the proposed Martin Richard Dorchester ity —named the Martin concept, according to Rob Field House, which would be sited on land owned by the Boston Public Schools Richard Dorchester Field towns.” Consalvo—a special advi- on Mt. Vernon Street. The $30 million indoor sports and community center House— to the Boston “Dorchester deserves sor to the BPS Superinten- would be operated by the Boys and Girls Clubs of Dorchester in partnership Public Schools (BPS) this this facility,” said Scan- dent— is to activate and with the Martin W. Richard Foundation. Image courtesy RODE Architects summer. nell, who has led the improve the BPS owned The new building, if BGCD for 35 years and su- land. The RFP sought the construction and on- lined in the RFP, the have been serving the kids approved by city officials, pervises two campuses— a private development going maintenance and proposal will be presented and families of Dorchester would house a turf field one on Dorchester Avenue team that would lease operations of the building. to community groups, for almost 50 years and for soccer, lacrosse, rugby, and a second in the Harbor the land and create a new “The facility will be including a Harbor Point we’ve made a measured football and other sports; Point development, right use that would benefit the able to be used by any age tenant organization, the and thoughtful decision an elevated, three-lane across the street from the school community and the groups,” said Consalvo. school community and to plan for the next 50 running and walking proposed Martin Richard larger Columbia Point and “The neighborhood will McCormack-Dever and years,” said Scannell. track; a fitness center with Dorchester Field House. Dorchester neighborhood. be able to use it, just the Columbia-Savin Hill Two other business- locker rooms, classrooms “There is nothing like this “Normally, this would as we encourage the Civic Association, which es with deep roots in and a nutrition center, in the city of Boston.” be an expense [to the city] communities around our will see the full proposal Dorchester are key part- along with some open In their response sub- in the capital budget, but schools to use our gyms at their next meeting on ners in the Field House space outside. The build- mitted to the BPS in July, we think there’s an oppor- and playgrounds. That’s Monday (Oct. 7, 7 p.m.) at proposal: Lee Kennedy ing would be managed Richard and Scannell tunity to partner with an a benefit for everyone, not the Little House on East Company, a construction and programmed by the added: “The vision for the outside private entity to just BPS kids.” Cottage Street. management company; Boys and Girls Clubs of [field house] is to create build some sort of athletic The proposal from the “What we agreed to do and RODE Architects, Dorchester, but would be an inclusive, welcoming facility at little or no cost BGCD and the Richard with the community was whose principal owners fully accessible to the Bos- space unprecedented in to the city of Boston,” Con- Foundation was the only that before awarding it, are Dorchester residents. ton Public School students the Dorchester commu- salvo told the Reporter. one that was submitted. we would come back out Lee Kennedy serves as the at the neighboring McCor- nity and indeed in the city In fact, under the terms The RFP was published and see all of the RFPs. chairman of the board of mack-Dever campus. The as a whole… The [Field of the proposal, any lease and publicized— as all We are honoring our com- the BGCD. facility would also be open House] will be a symbol of agreement would include city RFPs are— in the City mitment. We will take The Richard Founda- to the larger community, inclusion to all of Boston.” no payment to the city of Record and the Boston all that feedback back to tion has most recently and to adult sports teams, This current proposal Boston for the land. How- Herald. The time frame an evaluation committee been the key non-profit for example, that could came in response to a ever, the BGCD and Rich- for responses was June inside BPS.” entity behind the creation rent the space for games BPS Request for Proposals ard Foundation would be 24-July 19. Scannell and Richard of Boston’s newest public and practices when not in (RFP) for the site along responsible for financing This month, as out- say that— if approved by space, Martin’s Park, an use by children and teens. BPS— they are eager to inclusive play and open The project is largely hold even further com- space which opened to the brainchild of Bill and munity meetings to solicit rave reviews last summer. Denise Richard, who cre- detailed input about what The experience, Richard ated the Martin Richard sort of programming and said, gave the organiza- Foundation— named for amenities should be built tion new insights into how their 8 year-old son who into the field house. it can fulfill its mission of was killed in a terrorist The Martin Richard helping kids of all abilities bombing at the Boston Dorchester Field House in his home neighborhood. Marathon in 2013. They project represents the first In a short time span, the enlisted the Boys and Girls phase of what Bob Scan- foundation has emerged Clubs of Dorchester— led nell says is a two-phase as a major supporter of by Bob Scannell and his capital campaign that the youth organizations, in- wife Mary Kinsella— to BGCD will launch this fall cluding the Martin Rich- bring their vision of an that will likely require ard Challenger Sports indoor recreation facility more than $50 million Program, launched in for city kids in particular in contributions. The partnership with BGCD, to fruition. Together, they second phase will include which engages children have been seeking an ap- the construction of a new and young adults with propriate site— ideally in clubhouse on Deer Street, cognitive and physi- Dorchester— for the past The Martin Richard Dorchester Field House, depicted above in an architect’s where the BGCD has been cal challenges in sports four years. graphic, will be located next to what is now the McCormack Middle school, based for nearly 50 years. leagues. “This is a space that at left above. “As an organization we L Street Center likely will close for up to 18 months during rehab By Jack Goldman meeting with an effort to Officials offered ball- done here over the course Flynn addressed the au- center but also as an advo- Reporter Correspondent ease anxieties about the park answers on how of time has been lipstick, dience, both vowing to cate for female members. The Curley Community center’s future. “There’s long the design process more moderate facelifts,” keep fighting for more He also assured seniors Center in South Boston – been a lot of rumors, a lot will likely take before said Brophy. “What we’re funding from the city for whose social lives revolve known to many as the L of innuendoes… We are construction can begin— looking to do is preserve the project. around the rhythms of Street Bathhouse – will not building condos on about a year— and pro- this facility for the next Congressman Stephen programming at L street likely close for up to 18 top of L Street,” he said. vided a projected range of generation of kids who Lynch, a longtime mem- that officials would be pay- months beginning as soon “What’s going to happen how long construction will are going to be here, and ber at L Street, commend- ing particular attention to as next fall as the 80-year- here is going to be the take: an estimated 12-18 for everyone in between.” ed Andrea Flaherty’s ensure senior program- old beachfront property nicest community center months. BCYF Director Will leadership not just as ming continues. undergoes a $15 million in all of Massachusetts.” Throughout the meet- Morales said that the an administrator of the renovation designed to Brophy and other offi- ing, every administrator renovations will be “a modernize and protect the cials frequently reminded in the room could be seen triple-bypass” rather than BIBA mission to Eire well-used facility. the standing-room-only with a pen in hand not- a facelift, the intent being That was the message crowd that this was the ing what residents were to completely modernize set for late November from city officials to center first meeting in a design asking for—from more the interior of the facil- members and community process that will stretch saunas to ensuring that ity. To illustrate his point, The Boston Irish Busi- and more in Belfast, Do- residents at a public meet- into 2020. No decisions women members retain Morales asked how many ness Association (BIBA) is negal, Dublin, and Cork. ing on Monday evening. have been set in stone. their locker rooms. members in the room had planning a trade mission In Belfast, the dele- More than 200 people Regarding the exterior, at- Brophy noted that the been a part of the L Street to Ireland next month. gation will attend the packed into one of the tendees were told, the city renovations are intended community for over 30 to Built on a foundation of 23rd annual Aisling center’s larger rooms to is planning on restoring to target “inefficiencies” in 50 years, and a majority transatlantic relation- Awards dinner at Belfast’s hear a presentation from it without changing any how the current building of attendees raised their ships, BIBA members will Europa Hotel. Other plans officials with the Boston of the classical aspects of works and what program- hands. The city’s vision return to Ireland for six include a tour the Bogside Centers for Youth and the facade. ming is available. In addi- for the center’s future is to nights beginning Nov. 29 Murals in County Derry Families (BCYF) and the Members raised con- tion, he noted there is the create a facility that earns through Dec. 5. and visits to Slane Castle Public Facilities Depart- cerns ranging from the matter of protecting the the same type of loyalty Members will meet and and Distillery and the ment, which will oversee duration of a construction bathhouse from rising sea from future members that engage with business Rock of Cashel. the project. shutdown, what it will levels, increased flooding the L has engendered from delegations, elected of- More details and reg- Patrick Brophy, the mean for programming, risk, and other climate its current membership, ficials, and professionals istration materials are city of Boston’s chief of and whether the budgeted change-related issues. he said. across sectors such as life available online at cara- operations, led off the $15 million will be enough “We think that some of City Councillors Mi- sciences, technology, me- grouptravel.com/biba- to do the job. the work that has been chael Flaherty and Ed dia, professional services ireland-2019. bostonirish.com October 2019 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 17 Page 18 October 2019 BOSTON IRISH Reporter bostonirish.com BRETT’S BOSTON By Harry Brett Exclusive photos of Boston Irish people & events

A fine gathering came out on Sat., Sept 21, at the Irish Cultural Centre for an end-of- summer performance by the Celtic Angels of Ireland. The five women singing group fea- tures Victoria Kenny, Emily Carroll, Tammy Browne, Amy Penston, and Ellie Mullane, Irish to the core and seasoned entertainers all. The performance also featured Celtic Knight Dancers, with two former lead dancers of Riverdance. 1.) Celtic Angels; 2.) Andy and Tansy Davis, Hopkinton; 3.) Patrick and Karen Mulvey, Dedham; 4.) Bog and Barbara Bierig, Hopkin- ton; 5.) Sarah Roux, Stoughton; Betty Dowling, 1. Canton; 6.) Dave Harper, Mansfield; Siobahn Mulready, Carver; 7.) Seamus Mulligan, ICC President; Margie Delaney, Arlington; 8.) Rob Cardin, Barrington, RI; Danielle Brennan, Providence, RI; Mike Webber, Providence, RI; 9.) Maudy Dooher, ICC; 10.) Kerrin Botte, Norfolk; Amanda Guidoboni,Walpole; 11.) Dancers; 12.) Kaylee Hargreavef, Medway, Sean Curran, Hyde Park.

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11. 12. bostonirish.com October 2019 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 19 Johnson rebuffs critics of his language in Brexit debate By Jill Lawless the only way to calm the parliamentary debates legislators as “humbug.’’ the Evening Standard public and its politicians and Danica Kirka simmering tensions was late last month, Johnson In Parliament, John- newspaper that the in- are both bitterly divided son was repeatedly re- cendiary language used over how, or even wheth- Associated Press to stop delaying and leave said postponing the coun- LONDON – British the European Union. try’s departure would minded that a Labour by Johnson and his aides er, to leave the 28-nation Prime Minister Boris With talks between the “betray’’ the people, re- lawmaker, Jo Cox, was “does incite violence.’’ bloc. Johnson continues to UK and the EU showing ferred to an opposition stabbed and shot to death Johnson said that all Church of England deny allegations that he little sign of progress, law ordering a Brexit a week before the 2016 threats to politicians bishops appealed for is inciting violence by Johnson’s foes in Parlia- delay as the “Surrender Brexit referendum by a were “absolutely appall- calm amid the growing accusing his Brexit op- ment are determined to Act’’ and brushed off far-right attacker shout- ing,’’ but defended his use acrimony. ponents of “surrender’’ avoid a no-deal exit. Dur- concerns that his forceful ing “Death to traitors!’’ of the term “Surrender “We should speak to and “betrayal,’’ saying ing raucous, ill-tempered language might endanger Many British lawmakers Act,’’ saying, “The use others with respect,’’ the say they routinely receive of that kind of metaphor bishops said in a state- death threats now. has been going on for ment. “And we should Johnson says Brexit proposal on tap; Amber Rudd, who hundreds of years.” also listen ... We should served in Johnson’s Con- Johnson argues that he not denigrate, patronize Varadkar wants ‘guarantees’ honored servative Cabinet until is safeguarding the will or ignore the honest views (Continued from page 1) were able to get into more to strike new trade deals she quit three weeks of the public against the of fellow citizens, but seek Immigrant Center, said: detail this time. However, around the world. “There ago, said she was “disap- interests of the political to respect their opinions, “We are very keen that there is still a very wide is no point in doing Brexit pointed and stunned’’ by establishment, which their participation in there be a deal, that the gap between the EU and if you stay locked in the EU Johnson’s dismissal of wants to remain in the society, and their votes.’’ UK should be able to leave UK in terms of achieving customs union and locked their concerns. She told EU. In truth, the British the European Union in an what we need to achieve in the single market with orderly fashion. That’s in before October 31.” no say,” Johnson told the Ireland’s interest; it’s in Later that week, the BBC. He didn’t say what Britain’s interest, too. UK’s Express papers were Britain’s proposed alter- He added: “But there are among those reporting that native is. certain guarantees that “the Fine Gael leader was Ireland’s deputy prime we expect to be honored, demanding that Johnson minister has already re- that there won’t be a hard send detailed written pro- jected an idea raised in border between North and posals within 10 days to preliminary UK proposals South, that North-South Brussels or “it’s very hard for customs posts 5 to 10 co-operation will continue to see how we could agree miles away from the bor- as envisaged by the Good something” at the next der. Simon Coveney called Friday Agreement - that EU summit in October. the idea a “non-starter” what was given to us by He said the current deal and tweeted: “Time the the British government should not be “amended EU had a serious pro- Geraghty back in December 2017.” or cobbled together late posal from the UK Govt In reply, Johnson said, at night” when EU lead- if a Brexit deal is to be “It certainly will.” ers gather for a crunch achievable in October. NI ASSOCIATES “It’s the second time we Brexit summit on October and IRE deserve better!” have met in person,” said 17. The leader for the Re- Said Johnson, “That’s Varadkar. “I think the first public of Ireland added: not what we’re proposing PROPERTY MANAGERS time was an opportunity to “It’s essentially the way at all.” But he added that build relationships, which the EU works. it was a “reality” that some happened in Dublin three British Brexit support- checks would be needed to Studio and 1-Bedroom Apartments weeks ago. 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