January 2013 Boston’s hometown VOL. 24 #1 journal of Irish culture. $1.50 Worldwide at All contents copyright © 2013 Boston Neighborhood News, Inc. bostonirish.com SALUTING THE IRISH EXPERIENCE Cameron admits to British role in Finucane murder Widow blasts inquiry denial By Associated Press LONDON — British Prime Minister David Cameron last month condemned actions by British agents in the 1989 death of the Belfast lawyer Pat Finucane one of the most bitterly disputed killings of the entire Northern Ireland conflict. Cameron cited a long-awaited report on the slay- ing that said there was a shocking level of state collusion with an outlawed Protestant group in the murder of Finucane in his Belfast home as he was having Sunday lunch with his wife and three children. He specialized in defending Irish Republican Army suspects. Two gunmen from the Ulster Defense Association shot him more than a dozen times, and employees of the state and state agents played “key roles” in the murder, the report says. “It cannot be argued that these were rogue agents,” Cameron said. However, he British Prime Minis- declined to order an inquiry, ter David Cameron, saying that more was learned top, and the late Pat from the report by human Finucane, below. rights lawyer Desmond de Silva than would have been The cast of Frank McCourt’s musical revue “The Irish And How They Got That Way” – Gregg Hammer, gained through a public Janice Landry, Jon Dykstra, Meredith Beck, Andrew Crowe and Irene Molloy – playing at Davis Square inquiry. Theatre in Somerville, January 24 - March 17. Story, Page 9. However, Geraldine Finu- cane, the wife of the Belfast solicitor killed in his family Kickoff time for ‘The Gathering Ireland 2013’ home in February 1989, dis- With the dawn of the new year comes the begin- about its connections, both at home and abroad. The missed the report ordered by ning of “The Gathering Ireland 2013,” a major Gathering Ireland invites anyone who has a link to Cameron in 2011 as a “whitewash” and a “sham. marketing effort by the government of Ireland to Ireland, or just a love of the country, to visit Ireland The dirt has been been swept under the carpet encourage Irish Americans to visit the island this for a series of events throughout the new year. without any serious attempt to lift the lid on what year to reconnect with their roots. There will be clan gatherings, festivals, special really happened to Pat and so many others,” she The Gathering was launched by the Irish Taoise- sporting events, music, and concerts taking place all said at a press conference. ach, Tánaiste, and Minister for Tourism last May across the country, and all year long. Cities, towns “This report is a confidence trick dressed up as and is being supported by Fáilte Ireland and Tour- and villages throughout the country will showcase independent scrutiny and given invisible clothes ism Ireland. It is expected to be the biggest tourism and share the very best of Irish culture, tradition, of reliability. But most of all, most hurtful and initiative ever staged on the island. The Gathering business, sport, fighting spirit, and the uniquely insulting of all, this report is not the truth.” is not a single event; it’s an exciting year-long cel- Irish sense of fun. Previous investigations already have confirmed (Continued on page 20) ebration of Ireland, its people, and all that is great that both the British army and the anti-terrorist unit of Northern Ireland’s police had agents and A giver’s Kylemore Abbey informers inside the Ulster Defense Association involved in the killing. profile: as ‘a new icon’ Cameron said de Silva concluded that Finucane Dick Connolly, right, is probably would not have been killed were it not for a patron saint of golfers Sister Maire Hickey, the abbess of Kylemore the actions of British agents in the Ulster Defense and their caddies and Abbey for the past five years, says that under Association. of individuals in need, new plans the celebrated monastery “will develop “Sir Desmond is satisfied there was not an with more contributions, into a new icon. Until now it has been a tour- overarching state conspiracy to murder Patrick affiliations, and honors ist attraction and a school with a community Finucane,” Cameron said. “But while he rejects to his credit than most of nuns in the background. We want it to be any state conspiracy he does find, quite frankly, anyone in Boston. He has a Benedictine monastery that is the center of shocking levels of state collusion.” been dubbed “The Blue- activities of various kinds, and open to visitors Finucane specialized in defending Irish Repub- Collar Broker.” Greg of many kinds.” Judy Enright story, Page 16. lican Army suspects and had three brothers in the O’Brien writes, Page 8. outlawed group.

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email: [email protected] 888.828.1690 • 557 Washington Street, Canton • www.ibankcanton.com www.aisling-gallery.com Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com January 2013 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 3 American Ireland Fund gala raises $2.5-plus for charities

Joe Corcoran and Sharon McNally Some 1100 gathered for The American Ireland Fund’s 31st Annual Boston Dinner Gala at the Westin Boston Wa- terfront Hotel Nov 15, raising over $2.5 mil- Matt Power and Bill Weld lion The Worldwide the Vice Chairmen were: Teuber, Vice Chairman Ireland Funds Promis- Douglas Donahue, Man- of EMC Corporation. ing Ireland Campaign aging Partner of Brown The event honored new The gala was chaired by Brothers Harriman & Boston Red Sox Man- Ron O’Hanley, President Company; John Fish, ager John Farrell, the of Asset Management & Steve Greeley, Dinner Chair Ron O’Hanley, Mike Sheehan. Chairman and CEO of 20th Red Sox manager Photos courtesy American Ireland Fund Corporate Services at Fi- Suffolk Construction of Irish heritage. delity Investments, and Company and William USA Track Hall honors sprint legend Arthur Duffey Early last month, when Arthur F. Duffey, a Boston native, was inducted into the USA Track and Field Hall of Fame, his descendants viewed the honor as the resurrection of man and his reputation as a runner without peer in his time. On May 31, 1902, the 22-year-old Duffey, who was at the time a student at Georgetown University, burst from the starting line of the 100-yard sprint in the national intercollegiate track and field champion- ships at the Berkley Oval in New York City and hit the tape 9.6 seconds later, in the process lowering the world’s record from 9.8 seconds. Three years later, in November 1905, the run was over; all of his records were ordered erased in perpetuity by a national amateur track organiza- tion in the wake of never-confirmed reports about sponsorship expense money. The public record of the time shows that for many The Irish International Immigration Center hosted its annual Solas Awards on December 6 at the Ken- track fans, the case was one where a zealous rec- nedy Library, Dorchester. Pictured with the honorees at the event are, from left,: Sister Lena Deevey, titude had prevailed over fairness and any sense IIIC executive director; honorees Vincent Ryan, founder of Schooner Capital; Beverly Edgehill, Ed.D, of justice, a view finally accepted by the the world vice president of TJX Companies Inc.; Kevin Kelley, CEO of Ironshore Insurance; and Juliette Mayers, of track at the Hall of Fame ceremony last month. Blue Cross Blue Shield. -TOM MULVOY New mystery Irish community stalwart Kathleen Lawlor dies for Lehane One of the Boston Irish ton College, represented president who was a as a fellow director of the The problem may have community’s brightest Boston in Ireland’s inter- friend and Milton neigh- Eire Society. She made been resolved by the time lights was extinguished national Rose of Tralee bor of Kathleen and it grand fun. She had a you are reading this, a week before Christmas pageant, and later was John, remembers the smile as welcoming as a but Tessa, the beloved with the death of Kath- a teacher. Lawlor parties where toddler’s embrace and black-and-tan beagle of leen Lawlor, who leaves A member and direc- those in attendance a mind that respected mystery novelist Dennis her husband John, five tor of the Eire Society might include Seamus the Society’s mission Lehane and his fam- children – Mary, Maeve, of Boston for decades, Heaney, John Hume or of “spreading aware- ily went missing over Paul, John, and Owen – Kathleen served as its a member or two of the ness of the cultural Christmas weekend in four grandchildren, and president from 1975 to Chieftains. John fit right achievements of the the Coolidge Corner two brothers, Paul and 1977, a post held ear- ety ... you could always in as a champion NCAA Irish people.” area of Brookline . The Brian Kingston. lier by her father, Paul count on Kathleen to do and Olympic hammer Kathleen was a long- author went on line to In her youth Kathleen Kingston. She was an ac- it with charm, dignity, thrower and captain of time parishioner of St. pledge “the naming of was beautiful, brilliant tive officer and organized and grace. She was a real the 1964 Irish Olympic Agatha’s Parish in Mil- a character in the next in scholastics, a gifted countless Society events Irish woman, a real class team. ton where she sang in book for anyone who step dancer, and enam- as former Eire president act. She will be sorely On a personal note, the choir. gets her back to us!” ored of all things Irish. John Daley remembers: missed. I was privileged to sit – BILL O’DONNELL He added a picture of She had degrees from “For years she did almost Maureen Connelly, across the table from the pooch, available at Newton College and Bos- everything in the Soci- a former Eire Society Kathleen for thirty years universalhub.com. Robert Muse, family man, defense lawyer; at 92 Robert Muse, who, virtually every day in his attack on Pearl Harbor part, Mary, a graduate of with his wife Mary of long life. in December 1941, Bob Emmanuel College and 68 years and their fam- A graduate of Boston joined the Marines and BC Law School, went ily of 11 children, 38 College and Suffolk Law Mary enlisted with the onto serve on the Mas- grandchildren, and 9 School, Mr. Muse was a Navy’s Waves. sachusetts Probate and great-gfandchildren, Marine Corps fighter pi- On his return home, Family Court bench and was honored at the lot in World War II and, Mr. Muse went to law a career that made her a Boston Irish Reporter’s as Jack Thomas wrote in school and then began a model for women in the Boston Irish Honors lun- a profile of the family, defense practice that saw law and a tireless activ- cheon in October, died on he and Mary “were in him work some 1,000 tri- ist for many community Nov. 29. He was 92 years concert long before they als before he retired in causes. old and made good use of wed in 1944”; after the 2008 at age 88. For her Peter Muse, Esq., dies 16 days after his father Peter Muse, an attor- tumor. He leaves his wife ney and one of 11 chil- Deborah (Greene), and dren of Robert and Mary his children, Peter J.C., Muse, died on Dec. 14, Stephen Patrick T., Rita At right: Peter Muse, one 16 days after his father Claire, Michael V.R., and of 11 Muse children Robert and Mary Muse of the effects of a brain Maureen D. Muse. Page 4 January 2013 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com Publisher’s Notebook Commentary Boston set Coming soon: A United Ireland By Joe Leary climatic in that Northern Ireland will have already for a dancing Special to the BIR become a Catholic state. Many in Northern leadership A re-united Ireland may be a few years away, but its quietly acknowledge this today, and many, especially inevitability is certain. And it will happen within the the politicians, are preparing their parties for the new spectacular lifetime of many people now living here. But unless balance of power. current leadership in Belfast, Dublin, and London On Tues., Dec. 11, the Northern Ireland Statistics By Ed Forry manages the process very carefully, there will likely be and Research Agency finally released the detailed The region’s thriving Irish dance community has much turmoil as the prospect comes closer and closer. figures from its 2011 census. had four years to prepare, and now the clock is tick- The recent rioting throughout Northern Ireland is BBCNews Northern Ireland reported on the release ing toward a huge event being a good example of what might happen. and ran the headline: “NI Protestant population hosted by Boston in March – the The reason for this latest unrest was the anger of continuing to decline.” annual World Championship some Protestant/Unionists over a The Statistics and Research Agency census numbers of Irish Dance, an eight-day vote by the Belfast City Council to showed that 48 percent of the resident population are remove the British flag over City either Protestant or were brought up Protestant. The event that will run from March Catholic or brought-up Catholic population is up to 24 to March 31 at the Hynes Hall on all but 22 designated days each year. Catholic/Nationalists 45 percent, a narrowing of the gap to three percent- Auditorium. are now the leading political par- age points. Considered the most pres- ties in the Belfast City Council. Of In 2001 the Protestant population was 53.1 percent tigious and largest Feis in the the 51 councillors, 24 are Catholic/ and the Catholic population 43.8 percent, evidence of world, the annual event will Nationalists, 21 are Protestant/ an astounding narrowing of the gap. bring upwards of 6,500 Irish dancers to Boston Unionists, and 6 are middle-of- This only tells a part of the story, however, since from all over the world, including contingents from the- road members of the Alliance the young population now in the Northern Ireland Ireland, Great Britain, Australia, South Africa, Party. Two decades ago, there school system is overwhelmingly Catholic. According Australia, and New Zealand. Dancers will compete Joe Leary were 13 Catholic/Nationalists on to the Northern Ireland Department of Education, the the Council. figures for the 2010-2011 year show 163,693 Catholics in age-grouped competitions from under 11 to senior and 120,415 Protestants in primary and secondary level (dancers over 21 years old.) The program will This decision on the flag presentations would have been impossible were it not for the strong gains in schools. Queens University reports 8,710 Catholics include Ceili and Figure Dance competitions as well Catholic voting power since the Peace Process began and 6,740 Protestants and the University of Ulster as Dance Drama. Separate competitions are orga- in the early 1990s. reports 11,070 Catholics and 7,020 Protestants. It is nized for male and female competitors in solo events, Despite the caution urged upon them by Unionist easy for almost anyone to see the trends and make a and also sections for mixed and unmixed teams. First Minister Peter Robinson and Sinn Fein Deputy judgment as to the future population balance. Sponsored and organized by An Coimisiun le Rinci First Minister Martin McGuinness, angry Unionists In Belfast, for instance, where the “flag” vote took Gaelacha (The Irish Dancing Commission,) Boston took to the streets, attacking buildings, cars, and then place last month, the 2011 census data show significant and the Hynes Convention Center won the event the police when the officers arrived on the scene to changes. The Irish Times reports that the Catholic over 20 other cities around the world. It is just the stop the violence. population has risen to 48.6 percent while the Prot- Many in the Protestant community are very upset estant number is now 42.3 percent. It can safely be second time for these championships in the United said that the Protestant/Unionist ascendancy is over States and the first time they have come to Boston. over the developing “new” Ireland. They view them- selves as British and will resist the idea of becoming in Belfast. Glasgow, Dublin and Belfast hosted the last three Irish. For all that, the problem they face is democ- A strong, vibrant ,exciting United Ireland would annual events. In 2009, Philadelphia was the venue. racy, where the majority rules, and after nearly one benefit all its citizens. Economically, most all busi- The news of the Boston award was first reported hundred years of frequently oppressive Protestant/ nessmen and women agree that Ireland would be far in these pages in 2009. Speaking about the events Unionist control, the population, and, therefore, the stronger if a single country. Businesses want to avoid at that time, Jim Rooney, executive director of the voting power in this small part of Ireland is changing. operating where rioting and unrest occur. Hynes and the Mass Convention Center said, “We’re A united Ireland up-or-down vote as provided by A unified Ireland is such a desirable outcome that so pleased to be bringing this unique event to Bos- the Good Friday agreement may not even be relevant men and women of good heart both in Ireland and ton. We were in competition with Chicago and other a few years from now since the changes are already the United States should reach out to all communities happening in town and village councils throughout involved to help make the transition as easy, pleasant, big cities, and we won based on our award-winning and welcoming as possible. facilities, our top-tier service and – we admit it – the North. The major vote would be somewhat anti- being the most Irish city in America. “ “Ireland has a long association with Boston, and the strength of Irish dancing in the city and its environs is a very tangible illustration of its bond My 24-hour visit to way back when with Ireland,” said An Coimisiun le Rinci Gaelacha By Tom Mulvoy happened so long ago. spokesman Seamus O’Se. “One could almost say Reporter Staff This is the time of year when we give thanks for that, as far as the decision on a venue 2013 World On a recent afternoon, I had the privilege and op- what we have, whatever it adds up to; for some, it’s Championships was concerned, this was a one-horse portunity via a magazine assignment to sit down for a time to take cheery note once again of an epochal race. We are looking forward to working closely with an hour and engage in conversation in his Belmont event that happened far away some 2,000 years ago; the people of Boston to make this the greatest Irish home with a man who was 10 years old when Johnny for still others, it’s a time to once again make an ac- Dancing event ever”. came marching home from World War I. He will be counting of what came to pass over the past 12 months 105 years old next month, and he remembers his Civil and of their roles in the process, and to consider the State Senator Jack Hart added, “As a father of hopes for the next 12 months. four Irish step dancers, I can fully appreciate the War-veteran grandfather bathing him and he will readily tell you what he thinks of the recent election, As I consider that accounting and those hopes in level of excitement with Boston being chosen as and how he doesn’t “buy the Republican plan to cut this, my 70th year, I take comfort in the 24 hours host to this world class competition. Young dancers back on Social Security and Medicare.” that I spent talking with three individuals who, so from all over the globe must qualify to participate He will also give you chapter and verse about how far as living and moving on are concerned, have been in this event. I welcome these dancers to our great he ran his history and social studies classes at Water- there and done that. City of Boston.” town High School over a 42-year span that ended 40 Why them and not others? A creator’s will? Unknow- The event is expected to generate 17,800 hotel years ago: “The main thing I tried to do was graduate ing fate? A remarkably positive conflation of genetic room nights in Boston and an estimated $11 million respectful citizens, and that is the key word – citizens.” markers? There are billions of people on this earth in economic impact to the city and Commonwealth. It was awesome while sitting with him to consider who will say they know the answer, and more power that a mere handful of the seven billion people alive to them as my sturdy trio and the rest of us make our *** way to our common destiny. The Boston Irish Business Association (BIBA) has in the world today have walked this man’s walk and been able to talk about it in details, and with a witty announced a full slate of events for the new year, relish. including a series of monthly meetings to connect That evening, I had dinner with a man who three local business people with their counterparts from years ago, at age 90, and after a lifetime in journal- Ireland. The first in the speaker series takes place at ism, much of it spent in the higher editing echelons Boston Irish 6 p.m. on Wed., Jan. 17, when Bob Coughlin, presi- at the New York Times and the Boston Globe, pub- dent and CEO of the Massachusetts Biotechnology lished a lengthy memoir wherein he conceded that REPORTER Council, will be featured speaker at the Algonquin while newspapering was his religion during all those The Boston Irish Reporter is published monthly by: years, his deep and abiding faith in the value of facts Club in Boston’s Back Bay. Boston Neighborhood News, Inc., Other BIBA events in the new year include an and figures didn’t help him reconcile himself to life’s awards breakfast on March 14, and a five day trade ups and downs the way his late wife’s dearly held 150 Mt. Vernon St., Suite 120, Dorchester, MA 02125 Catholicism had guided her through a long, full life [email protected] www.bostonirish.com mission to Ireland (April 29-May 3). More details and her dying time. at bibaboston.com. Still, at 93 now, he continues to genuflect to daily Mary C. Forry, President (1983-2004) *** journalism, print division, and is ready by mid-morn- Edward W. Forry, Publisher Just after US Ambassador to Ireland Dan Rooney ing to debate, with no less acuity than he brought to stepped down from that post in early December, his job 40 years ago, the content and display of that Thomas F. Mulvoy Jr., Managing Editor the Associated Press reported that he and his wife day’s Globe and Times reports. William P. Forry, Contributing Editor Patricia made a long, sad journey back to Pittsburgh The next day, I stopped by a nursing home in Brain- Peter F. Stevens, Contributing Editor for the funeral of their daughter, Rita Marie Rooney, tree to see my Aunt Mary, who was born in 1920, the who passed away on December 1. year that the Red Sox sold Babe Ruth to the New York News Room: (617) 436-1222 Ms. Rooney was a resident of Milton where she Yankees. When I got to her floor, she was leading, with considerable exuberance, her mostly reluctant Ads : (617) 436-1222 served as the Director of Faith Formation at St. fellow residents in the singing of a 45-minute medley Fax: (617) 825-5516 [email protected] Elizabeth’s Church and was attending Boston Col- of songs that echoed the Tin Pan Alley days of Vic- On The Web at www.bostonirish.com lege for a master’s degree in theology. A graduate of tor Herbert. The words from 90 years and more ago Brown University and the University of Pittsburgh slipped out of her mouth with nary a mumble. Date of Next Issue: February, 2013 Law School, she had practiced law in Pittsburgh, Time has worn down this mother of six whose pep- Deadline for Next Issue: Monday, January 17 at 2 p.m. Dublin, and Boston. The 54-year-old Rooney leaves periness and keen sense of fun animated so many Published monthly in the first week of each month. her son, Alexander Conway of Boston. A memorial family gatherings over so many years; she isn’t sure Mass will be held in the new year at St. Elizabeth’s what happened to her six siblings, three of whom reached 90 years and more, and all of whom are dead; The Boston Irish Reporter is not liable for errors appearing church. in advertisements beyond the cost of the space occupied by Ed Forry is the co-founder and publisher of the and she repeats a lot of questions. But stay with her an hour, and talk about our extended family and the the error. The right is reserved by The Boston Irish Reporter Boston Irish Reporter. Contact him at edforry@ memories come back with a sureness of recollection, to edit, reject, or cut any copy without notice. bostonirish.com and a poignant, understated touch of regret that they Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com January 2013 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 5 Point of View When black-and-white stories leave out the gray “possibly harming White’s chances in the forthcom- The release of the Boston ing mayoralty campaign and a possibility of White’s obtaining a slot on the national Democratic ticket.” FBI’S Kevin White files Another aspect of the FBI’s investigation lurks raises issues of fairness amid all the furor – then and now. George Regan, White’s former press secretary, wrote a letter to the and history for public Globe and predictably asserted, “The case against figures after their deaths Mayor White was not pursued by the US attorney’s office because it was built upon lies.” Another point, By Peter F. Stevens however, that Regan made is one that those seeking BIR Staff to trash White in perpetuity will likely try to evade The dead can’t defend themselves. While cliché, or ignore: The Boston FBI that was investigating the sentence is a truism nonetheless as witness the White was the same FBI office that was acting in recent release of FBI files on the late Kevin White deep concert with a certain local luminary named offering James “Whitey” Bulger – a fact that hardly inspires some 500 pages of roughly composed, heavily confidence that every aspect of the White investiga- redacted documents that delve into purported cor- tion was circumspect. Regan correctly pointed out, ruption during White’s four-term tenure (1968-1983) “The Boston FBI had its so-called enemies list and as Boston’s mayor. was not above breaking the law or twisting the facts.” Predictably, many in the media have almost To her credit, the Globe’s Joan Vennochi gave gleefully seized on the files as “proof” that White passing mention to that point. and his cronies were crooked, on the take, you fill If facts that prove wrongdoing by White or, for in the blank. Others have denounced the records, that matter, any historical figure, emerge one day, in the public domain due to the work of MuckRock, or centuries, after death, they must be entered into a journalistic watchdog group, as unsubstantiated the record. Half-truths, allegations never acted upon, allegations that never saw the light of day in an and such murky scholarship should not be enough Kevin Hagan White indictment, let alone in a courtroom. to sully one’s reputation beyond repute. Can it be So wherein lie the truth, the half-truths, and the seems damning. A second, deeper look reveals some- said that Kevin White was demonstrably guilty of distortions? In the historical record, death doesn’t thing far murkier, a political and public portrait far the allegations? In a word, no. Can it be said, as absolve a person’s untoward deeds in life, and as more akin to hazier Impressionism than the Real- White himself claimed, that he had been “vindicated” posthumous facts emerge, they should and must ism that a number of local columnists want it to be. by the FBI? Again, no. be a measure of the man or woman. The key word Historically speaking, there are two incontrovert- I’m reminded of something that appeared in this is facts. ible facts here: the Boston FBI office did launch inves- space in last month’s Boston Irish Reporter about The FBI files on White teem with allegations of tigations from 1975-1987 into purported bid-rigging Ambassador Joseph P. Kennedy in “The Patriarch,” bribes, kickbacks, political strong-arming for con- and pay-for-play; however, the FBI never brought David Nasaw’s biography: “When it comes to the tributions, and a cozy pay-for-play arrangement charges against White. The same files made public bromide that Kennedy was a man who made his – again, alleged – between the White administra- by MuckRock are colorful and compelling and stir fortune in bootlegging, Nasaw convincingly contends tion and various local waste-removal companies. A up a miasma of suspicion, but they are very same that there is no hard shred of evidence to support tidbit that is hardly new but has set off breathless files – an amalgam of testimony from sometimes the charge – other than Kennedy’s providing alcohol “outrage” in the usual media quarters was the FBI’s specious sources, internal memorandums, agents’ for his tenth Harvard reunion.” Regarding White suspicion that White personally “convinced” John handwritten notes, and even copies of newspaper and the FBI files, that clear-cut, irrefutable shred Hancock Insurance to sign a $4.5 million charitable stories, all but the latter heavily redacted – that of evidence that White was guilty has yet to surface donation to Boston University. It is a fact that were never solid enough to support actual charges. from reams of the plausible. Until it does, history’s when White finished his tenure as mayor, he soon In a blunt assessment, the US attorney’s office stated jury can’t be sent out to deliberate a verdict “beyond ensconced himself in pricey BU digs perched above that there was “a lack of evidence to substantiate a reasonable doubt.” Of course, that will never the Charles River and became a conduit between and prove a federal violation.” In one investigator’s stop some from arriving at just such a conviction the school and Beacon Hill. memo to the FBI brass, a concern was evinced that on their own. At first glance, the portrait the FBI files presents the evidence was “not solid enough” to follow without ‘Austerity’ has many faces as Ireland turns to 2013

By Liam Ferrie to fill the gap created by a further curtailment in in value and have been moved from defined benefit Special to the BIR the average citizen’s spending power brought about schemes to defined contribution schemes. Numerous GALWAY – For the last four years or so “austerity” by the government’s budgetary decisions. Those in experts have highlighted an impending disaster as has been the favorite word of the Irish media and employment will have reduced “take-home” pay; the pension bill for retired state employees will soon popular with many of our politicians. I am not sure families will have at least 10 euro per child less to become unsustainable. what image of the country this conjures up to the spend each month; homeowners will have to pay Bringing about meaningful change is difficult outside observer but, whatever their expectations, a new property tax (averaging around 200 euro in for any government. Trade union power has been visitors must be totally bemused when they arrive 2013 and 400 in 2014); it will cost more to own a in decline in recent decades but it still remains in any of our cities or towns. This would be particu- car; and cuts in certain allowances will result in a strong in the public sector and no government so far larly true in recent weeks as Christmas shopping reduction in discretionary spending by pensioners. has been willing to take a hard line against union momentum gathered pace. Reduced consumer spending means fewer jobs. threats. Capitulation to union demands has created “Austerity” isn’t a word that comes to mind in Fewer jobs mean increased social welfare spending a dysfunctional public service and this government the modern Ireland with interminable traffic jams, (already 39.5 percent of current expenditure) and has shown no inclination to challenge the unions in crowded stores, busy restaurants and bars, and full a reduction in tax income. Both outcomes make it an effort to correct the situation. car parks in city centres and shopping malls. For more difficult for the government to balance its books Asking anyone to make sacrifices to restore the real signs of austerity it is necessary to search out and Noonan may therefore be underestimating the economy is a difficult task at the best of times, but the the unfinished and abandoned housing estates, half savings he will have to make in 2014. situation is not helped by an almost daily exposure completed or vacant office blocks and retail outlets, On the face of it, 2013 looks like another bleak of stories of individuals who, directly or indirectly, and other business premises with “For Sale” or “For year for the Irish economy. There are, however, a are being paid by the state and who seem to have es- Rent” signs outside. few positive developments that could change that caped the recession. Former prime ministers Bertie For the average person with a job or a state pension, picture. Some recent data show a modest increase Ahern and Brian Cowen are in receipt of pensions “austerity” means not having any of the luxuries that in consumer spending in the third quarter, an in- of around 150,000 euro ($195,000). Politicians who had become the norm. Unfortunately, a substantial crease that was particularly pronounced in October. served in Europe are even better off as they receive minority is feeling real pain and understand the Reinforcing these statistics was an increase in the their Dáil and ministerial pensions plus European true meaning of the word. These are the people who Consumer Satisfaction Index in October, from 60.9 pensions. We also have at least one member of the bought houses at the top of the market and have to 63.8, with the figure trending upward. It is also European Parliament collecting his EU salary in since lost their jobs. worth noting that economists believe that for every addition to his Dáil pension. He was impervious “Austerity” is also a good word to use when looking one percent improvement in the world economy, to an outcry that has prompted some other former at the state of the nation’s finances. In early Decem- the Irish economy will grow by around 1.5 percent. politicians to suspend their Irish pensions while on ber, Minister for Finance Michael Noonan delivered The optimist can also take comfort from the fact the EU payroll. the 2013 Budget, the sixth austerity budget in four that house prices seem to have stabilized and a The list seems to be endless. In recent days we years. Most analysts described it as the toughest to very slight improvement in the unemployment rate heard of 60-millikon euro in bonuses being paid to date as it took 3.5 billion euro out of the economy – 2 was recorded. A further encouraging trend is in the bank executives over a two-year period. That would billion in spending cuts and 1.5 billion in increased level of foreign direct investment. In recent months normally be of primary interest to the banks’ share- taxes. What made this budget so harsh was not the we have had a steady flow of announcements from holders but that money was part of the enormous sum involved but that the government believed it had the IDA giving details of multi-nationals, mostly bailout that the banks received from the Irish tax- to resort to substantial cuts in such sensitive items US-based, expanding their operations in Ireland or payer. The latest “scandal” is that of “public interest” as child benefits and the carer’s respite allowance. setting up new subsidiaries in this country. directors on the boards of the banks receiving fees The question being asked in the wake of this budget Whatever happens in 2013 the Irish economy will ranging from 60,000 euro ($80,000) to 90,000 euro presentation is, “Will we be in a better place at the still be in need of major surgery. We have a public ($120,000) per year for their efforts. All of those hold- end of 2013?” Noonan believes we are through the service in which the average salary is 50 percent ing these positions are retired politicians or retired worst, although at the same time he reminds us that higher than in the private sector. Despite the state senior civil servants who are already in receipt of he must save a further 3.1 billion euro in the 2014 of the nation’s finances those on the state payroll very handsome pensions. budget. Elsewhere, there are mixed views. First of all, continue to receive annual increments unless they If Ireland is to recover fully, it will do so very we are dependent on the state of the world economy. are already at the top of the scale for their grade. slowly unless the government grasps that nettle and Any downturn in the EU or the US will have a det- The same public servants can look forward to in- ensures that we are all seen to be in this together. rimental effect on the Irish economy. The converse dex- linked pensions while their counterparts in the should be true, but growth first has to be sufficient private sector have seen their pension funds decline Page 6 January 2013 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com Boston Irish Reporter’s Here & There

By Bill O’Donnell widow, Geraldine, dismissed the report as “a sham...a He could be right, I suppose. If the Orange Order, a Swift Boaters, Tea Party Losers Go After Kerry whitewash...a confidence trick.” tired relic of the 17th century, can get all cuddly, start – It comes as no surprise that the Swift Boat gang that The author and journalist Ed Moloney has publicly hosting community festivals, hiring marketing consul- helped torpedo US Sen. John Kerry’s presidential stated that both the Irish and British governments were tants, and emerge as champions for its Papist neighbors, bid in 2004 has been resurrected to do the same for aware that the lives of Finucane and two other solicitors who’s to say that the Robinson vision of Catholic voters his expected appointment as Secretary of State. They were under threat from loyalist assassins well before the sprinting to gatherings around unionist campfires is not will have as allies in the attempted Kerry take-down Finucane murder in February 1989. Moloney’s state- destined to become the new reality. the shrinking Tea Party stalwarts whose advocacy of ment directly contradicts the findings of the Finucane A Christmas-Hanukkah Story – It’s a true story not right wing nut-case candidates has probably cost the Report’s author, Sir Desmond de Silva, who claims a fable and it happened almost two decades ago in the Republican party five US Senate seats in just the past that the first contact between the two governments Big Sky region of Billings, Montana. It was December two elections. relating to loyalist threats against nationalist lawyers 1993 and the edges of this quiet Montana town were The latest rumblings of did not happen until the day after Finucane’s murder, growing a bit ragged. Some neo-Nazis in small num- the Swift Boat reactiva- on February 13. bers had come to town and pockets of anti-Semitism tion was reported in print Moloney recounts a conversation he had with Tommy were popping up from time to time. The Ku Klux Klan by the Wall Street Journal Lyttle , the west Belfast commander of the loyalist UDA also had quietly moved a few members into town. The and picked up in lock-step in December 1988, in which Lyttle told Moloney about overwhelmingly white, Christian community didn’t conformity by the puny a RUC detective who had recently suggested that the say much at first, hoping to work through it or around Boston Herald, fortunate UDA ought to consider killing three “IRA lawyers,” Pat it, quietly. But many knew it would likely get worse enough to be editorially alive Finucane, Oliver Kelly, and PJ McGrory. On Feb. before it got better. because Boston revels in the 12, 1989, Finucane was gunned down as he was having One December evening a rock came crashing through good-sport label as a “two a meal with his family. a window in a Billings home, demolishing a menorah, a newspaper town.” To what All in all, the de Silva inquiry states, there were three nine-branch candelabra, and a Star of David display, all price? it could be asked. UDA conspiracies to murder Finucane (1981, 1985, and part of the Schnitzer family’s Hanukkah remembrance, The revisit this year of 1988/89) that were known to the RUC special branch and upending the equanimity of Isaac, aged 5 and his the Swift Boaters came and/or MI5, but on none of those occasions was Finu- 2-year-old sister, Rachel. For safety the children were Bill O’Donnell unsurprisingly by the hand cane warned of the threat against his life. It is hard to bundled into sleeping bags under their parents’ four- of the Journal, the reliably believe when one listens to the official findings of the poster bed, far from the windows. But it was a terrifying conservative house organ, in the form of an op-ed piece government appointed Queen’s Counsel in this report night for this young family. by former WSJ editorial board member Seth Lipsky that a public inquiry, of whatever shape or context, The police came, surveyed the damage, and said they wherein the hired gun revisits the 1971 testimony by could be any more damning for the British government would look into it but offered no assurances. In the days Kerry regarding US troop actions and supposed atroci- than this document. that followed several incidents were reported that in- ties in the Vietnam war, and asks “Why in the world Do Dead Politicians Have Any Reputational volved skinheads and another when racist youths had would the president consider” appointing Kerry to either Rights? – The FBI had a file on the late Boston Mayor to be turned away from an African-American church a State or a Defense department post? Kevin White that it added to and updated over the event by friendly white neighbors. Kerry’s testimony of 40 years ago has been repeatedly years until it reached some 500 pages. There was in- Then the local paper, noting the ugly incidents, wrote supported by FactCheck and the official record while formation or alleged claims masquerading as fact, some an editorial and at the suggestion of one of the paper’s Lipsky cites Swift Boat Veterans for Truth founder hand-written, some scribbled or neatly typed notes in readers, the Billings Gazette printed a full-page image John O’Neill’s smear of three-time Purple Heart re- numbered pages on topics ranging from alleged illegal of a menorah and by the end of that week more than cipient Kerry as “... well qualified to be the Secretary firings of city employees to murky lawsuits that seem 6,000 Billings households had cut out the paper meno- of Defense – of Cuba or Venezuela.” to belong in the dust bins of some white shoe Boston rahs and placed them in their windows across town as As part of the full-court press by the right wing media, law firm. In page after page the names of accusers are a defiant show of solidarity for their Jewish neighbors. an earlier Fox TV report by anchor Megyn Kelly noted redacted, erased from hard scrabble follow-up or clarify- The response was gradual in coming. Bricks and bullets the Swift Boaters’ challenge to Senator Kerry’s record ing testimony from the aggrieved finger-pointers. broke some windows at the Central Catholic High School as a war hero. In yet another program with O’Neill and In looking at some of the FBI file contents, it is hard that had been displaying a banner reading, “Happy the Boaters, Fox’s Sean Hannity praised their 2004 to say whether the files compiled for the Boston Globe Hanukkah to our Jewish Friends.” And several other TV ads as having been “powerful and effective” even as by MuckRock could be defined as finished files or merely troubling incidents proved the newly discovered senti- they were being discredited by extensive media report- “raw files,” dumpster-style files that collect everything, ment was not unanimous, but slowly the harassment ing. The double-barreled attack by the Journal and Fox, clear nothing, and constitute a mish-mash of accusations stopped. The bigots eventually withdrew because a town both Rupert Murdoch-owned, is no coincidence. and innuendo by now nameless individuals, some good faced reality, joined together, and faced down bigotry. Despite the efforts of the truth-challenged Swift Boat- citizens, and some with unrequited grudges. It probably couldn’t happen everywhere but it did ers and their Tea Party junior partners, Senator Kerry It was fairly well known that Bill Weld, the US At- happen in Billings, Montana, in 1993 when fewer that will skate through the Senate confirmation hearings and torney during the final years of White’s 16-year reign, 50 Jewish families and thousands of white Christian will be easily confirmed to succeedHillary Clinton. was aggressive and upwardly mobile and there was the neighbors stood together and won out over intolerance. Remembering “Tip” at the JFK Library – It was usual gossip and street talk about the long-in-the-tooth And that’s the Truth. Sun., Dec. 9, at the Kennedy Presidential Library & White administration and the possibility of City Hall RANDOM CLIPPINGS Museum in glorious Columbia Point when media vet- corruption, which comes with the tenure and territory. Dan Rooney, 80, the good man who co-owns the erans of the Tip O’Neill era gathered to celebrate the No charges were ever brought, no legal proceedings Pittsburgh Steelers ,has finished his three plus years late US House speaker’s 100th birthday on that very initiated, and Kevin White drifted into his long goodbye as our Ambassador to Ireland and is heading home. His day. And what a party! The panel discussion audience with reputation reasonably intact. Now comes the Globe. daughter recently died and he reportedly misses the NFL was greeted by JFK Library Director Tom Putnam and First on Nov. 29 with a neutral headline in the Metro action. And forget the Chicago newspaper suggesting opened by Tip O’Neill’s longtime gatekeeper, Christine section, “Kevin White’s FBI Files Released.” White had that Bill Clinton could have the job. Not a chance. … Sullivan. Contributing memories and anecdotes were: been dead ten months. The release prompted little pub- Rebecca Brooks, Rupert Murdoch’s former editor of Charlie Gibson, ABC-TV; Al Hunt, Bloomberg News; lic reaction but George Regan, longtime White press the Sun & News of the World isn’t leaving broke. Her Cokie Roberts, ABC-TV; Steve Roberts, NY Times; secretary, sent a letter to the editor and complained of parachute is purely platinum, valued at $17 million. Is Mike Barnicle, MSNBC; and former O’Neill staffer the libeling of a dead man and the vulnerability of the that severance, or hush money? … Elizabeth Warren Chris Matthews, Hardball, MSNBC. FBI at the time. Good for him. landed right where the American consumer needs her For nearly two hours the panelists recalled the life In a Dec. 9 revisit of the propriety of dredging up a — on the US Senate Banking Committee. … Speaking and times of the legendary Tip. How he reacted to his damaging file simply because you can, Joan Vennochi of high finance it should be noted that AIG, recipient Cambridge constituency, and his fellow lawmakers in was not particularly critical or fault finding of the of a huge $180 billion federal bailout ,will soon see the Washington, and how every day he lived the most famous November story. She wrote, as some possible attempt last of its US-owned shares hit the market as US tax- of O’Neill quotes, “All politics is local.” The panel stories at armor-plating of the Globe’s two articles on White, payers gain another windfall. … Galway is leading the recalled O’Neill the schmoozer, the smiling arm-twister, that “death is not reason enough to withhold negative Irish in planned “Gatherings” for this new year 2013 the loving husband, the tough negotiator, and the feet- information about a public figure.” True, no quarrel with scores of events already booked. … Rollcall, the on-the-ground legislator who never for a moment forgot there, but who said that it should be? political bible in Washington, picked the biggest upset where he came from. The comments were book-ended But Kevin White has gone to his reward, and is no in the last election, choosing Bay State congressman by two excellent excerpts from a Barnicle feature on longer a “public figure.” There is only one thing that the John Tierney, who surprised us with a re-election win. Boston’s Chronicle TV program on WCVB-Ch. 5. Globe stories can accomplish: the diminution of Kevin Ryanair is hanging in there, pursuing enough shares The John F. Kennedy Library & Museum has shown White’s reputation and, arguably, his place in Boston’s to gain control of Aer Lingus. … New York’s Cardinal the Tip tribute via its website and is likely to make the history. It seems to this Boston native, a City Hall Dolan surprised most everyone by his early support for panel discussion available on tape after the first of the presence for a period after Kevin White’s tenure, and Dorothy Day’s sainthood push. ... A poignant moment year. As one viewer who watched and remembered, I someone who believes that your good name is precious, when Kevin McHale, who had just lost a daughter to want to express my thanks to the Library for hosting that there should have been a hell of a lot more meat on lupus was embraced by old Celtic friends when he and the birthday party for Tip and arranging to make it the bone to justify the unreeling of those purposeless, Houston came to the garden. … Tim Pat Coogan, available to a wider audience. For further information dead-end files. author and historian, was twice denied a visa to visit the Library phone number is 617-514-1600. Peter Robinson Poking Around in Bonfires Past the US on a book tour and one wonders if he was try- Ireland and Gtech Firm Could Join in National – DUP leader and First Minister Peter Robinson’s ing to hustle some free PR or had problems doing his Lottery – The Republic of Ireland is in the final stages life these days must be mildly mundane or less exciting application. … Prior to his recent health problems and of selecting a company to run its national lottery and than when he was dodging extended hospital stay ,it was assumed Tom Menino a Rhode Island firm is the front-runner to win the cov- brickbats aimed at his wife Iris and himself not all was ready and eager for a sixth mayoral term. That could eted license. GTech, a subsidiary of Lottomattica with that long ago. In an apparent attempt to stir up some be a no-go now. … Only in a courtroom could anyone 7,500 employees in 50 countries and its headquarters mischief or to get a feel for upcoming electioneering, ever try to make a case that federal law enforcement in Providence, is a high-stakes bidder for the Irish Peter has found a new phrase to add to the Northern would ever think they could get away with granting contract. Gtech has recently raised a stunning $650 demographic lexicon — “Northern Irish.” It is something immunity to Whitey Bulger. Talk about crazy time. million war chest to bid on the lottery license that is that has the world’s top golfer, another native of the … The news out of Killarney in my Kerry homeland is also being sought by similarly large lottery operators province, thinking about himself these days. that officials there are looking to build an artificial roof in the UK and Australia. Robinson recently told a DUP party gathering that over entire streets to allow locals and tourists to shop The Irish lottery, the modern successor to the famed the fastest-growing section of Northern Ireland society sans the rain drops. … There will be no nude female Irish Sweepstakes, has raised some $5 billion in its is neither “unionist” nor “nationalist.” No, indeed, it is bathing at Forty Foot Landing at Sandycove, Dublin. brief history, which is used by the Irish to underwrite “Northern Irish” and Peter is going to get him some. No women members, say the suitless male members. charitable and other good causes. Some of the proceeds It is his belief that the real political crisis at present … Labour’s Taniste Eamon Gilmore is accusing Sinn from the licensing fee collected by the government – $260 is within nationalism. He said that the views of many Fein of hypocrisy for advocating taxes in the North but million – will help finance the new National Childrens Catholics on social issues, education, and the economy opposing property taxes in the Republic. … Another Hospital. are not reflected in the policies of the SDLP and Sinn laurel for Ireland’s gift to the ages, Seamus Heaney, Brits “Sorry” … Finucane Widow Calls Report a Fein. Easy enough to claim by Robinson, but truth is who has a new chair in writing in his name at Trinity. “Sham” – Despite the fact that British Prime Minister another issue. … Kudos to the Globe’s Dan Shaughnessy for his flat- David Cameron, in addressing the House of Commons, In the wrap-up rap on unionism’s place in Northern out pre-game prediction that the Patriots would blow called the evidence in the 500-page Finucane Report society, the First Minister is telling his people that his away the then 11-1 Houston Texan. And that they did, “unacceptable,” with “shocking levels of collusion,” there pursuit of Catholic votes will not lead to an abandonment in convincing fashion! will be no public inquiry as demanded by the family of sections of unionism. “Unionism is not a religion,” A happy, healthy, and peaceful New Year to all out of the slain Belfast lawyer Pat Finucane. Cameron sayeth Peter and it is “capable of attracting a working there. apologized, saying he was “deeply sorry.” Finucane’s class Protestant, a Catholic businessman, and an im- migrant seeking a new life in our country.” Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com January 2013 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 7 Irish International Immigrant Center An agency accredited by US Department of Justice 100 Franklin Street, Boston, MA 02110 Telephone (617) 542-7654 Fax (617) 542-7655 Website:iiicenter.org Email: [email protected] Advancement class who had to juggle many graduates 14 students responsibilities while tak- ing the course. She works By Rebecca Amoah seven days a week as a Last week, I had the joy home health aide, and is of attending the gradu- a mother of two. In spite ation celebration for the of these challenges, there fall term’s computer and was no question about her career advancement class decision to do both. She held at the Irish Interna- urges those considering tional Immigrant Center taking the class, “Don’t (IIIC). After twelve weeks be afraid of the challenge. of rigorous training, and You’re not going to know countless hours of home- what the world is like until work, these students have you take a step out.” been transformed from In addition to the skills computer novices to pro- and confidence Mary has ficient experts. gained, she has made In a day and age where great friends along the technology is a neces- way. sity, this course serves The IIIC is accept- as a bridge connecting ing applications for the students to the ever ex- spring 2013 session. If you panding digital world. would like to be a part of Also known as the Online this experience, contact Learning and Readiness me, Rebecca Amoah, at course, this intensive class [email protected] or that is sponsored by the call 617-542-7654, Ext. 30. Timothy Smith Network Classes start on Jan. 22. afforded these students Congratulations again with the unique opportu- to our graduates! The nity to switch career fields, IIIC would also like to or even attend college. thank the Timothy Smith Students were trained us- Network for its sponsor- ing the Microsoft Digital ship, and instructor Chris Literacy Curriculum and Tegmo and assistant Ber- a wonderful selection of culture featuring live also held at the Cape Cod Feb. 10 and for what prom- learned word processing, lange Gauthier for their seafood dishes, comfort Irish music, dancing, and Irish Village, will run from ises to be a great afternoon how to create spread- hard work. food classics, soups, Irish a wide range of activities 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. that of food, music, and craic. sheets, databases, pre- IIIC invites you to specialty breads, and for kids. Raffle prizes day. For more information on sentations, among other the “Taste of Ireland” desserts. include items donated by Irish Village owner Jack the immigration clinic things. Additionally, at celebration on Cape Participating restau- local businesses and art Hynes is again offering a or the Taste of Ireland the end of the course, Cod on Feb.10 – We rants donate their efforts galleries, and gift certifi- special accommodation event itself, please con- students had a resume, invite you to a fun day at and all proceeds to ben- cates to local restaurants. package to those who tact Ann Marie Cugno at cover letter, improved Cape Cod’s Irish Village in efit the important legal, The event will be preceded would like to make a week- 617-542-7654, Ext. 32 or interviewing technique, South Yarmouth on Sun., wellness, and education by a free, walk-in immi- end of it. For bookings and viua e-mail at amcugno@ and a netbook. This course Feb. 10, starting at 1 p.m. services work of the Irish gration and citizenship information about accom- iiicenter.org. provides students with for the 15th Annual “Taste International Immigrant advice workshop. The modation, please contact the confidence needed to of Ireland” event. The en- Center. IIIC’s staff and volunteers the Cape Cod Irish Village The Irish International thrive in the workplace trance fee of $15 includes While the food is the will be on hand to give at 508-771-0100 or visit Immigrant Center wishes and the tools they need to the opportunity to sample main attraction for most confidential advice about their website at capecod- all readers a very healthy, keep their skills up to date. Irish dishes from a wide people, the event is re- immigration and citizen- irishvillage.com. happy, and prosperous Mary, originally from range of Cape Cod area ally a celebration of Irish ship issues. The free clinic, Mark your calendar for New Year. Galway, is one of students restaurants who provide Matters Of Substance – 2013 – A year to change

‘Be the change that you could focus on one single do things differently next dinner” Change is always possible change you need to make wish to see in the world’ thing we would most like weekend”. Maintenance: “I am but sometimes we need is to look for help, calling – Mahatma Gandhi to change? Preparation: ’That’s bringing Mike to a meet- support. We never plan your doctor and perhaps What would that be? it!! I can’t deal with this ing, because it has helped to have problems with contacting Danielle, in So we survived the “Ma- How motivated you are relationship anymore”; me so much”; “I have not alcohol, drugs, gambling, confidence and without yan” prophesies. We are to make the changes you `Where can I get help to eaten biscuits in over a shopping, or smoking but judgment, at the IIIC. still here, and that means want to make? Maybe lose weight?` `What if I month, I feel great, maybe if you are worried, there Phone: 617-542-7654, we may be facing our an- there is another way to can’t stop drinking?` I will keep going? is somewhere to go to chat Ext. 14, or by e-mail nual “New Year’s Resolu- understand how someone Action: “I could use a Think about the one about your concerns. at [email protected]. tions” internal conversa- can begin to make changes drink now but will find an thing in your life you Wondering why you Wishing all our readers a tion. Clear out all our in their lives? AA meeting instead”; “I would change. Look are so sad, angry, or very peaceful, successful “bad” habits at once; no The “Stages of Change” am tired but if I just put through some of the state- have low energy all the and Happy 2013. more cookies, ice cream, model, developed in the on my runners, I can get ments above. Where are time? Maybe the simple late 1970s/early 1980s 15 minutes walk in before you in this cycle of change? by James Prochaska and Carlo DiClemente, was designed to help those AUTO BODY REPAIRS (617) 825-1760 who were trying to quit (617) 825-2594 cigarettes. It can be very FAX (617) 825-7937 helpful when you are con- sidering a change of any January 8th Free Legal Clinic IIIC, 100 Franklin St., Boston kind in your life whether All clinics are first-come, first-served. For complete details, please call (617) 542-7654. your want to change your spending or food habits, January 10th Citizenship Preparation Course Free Pick-Up & Delivery Service Thursdays IIIC, 100 Franklin Street, Boston, MA or maybe even the kind 1:00 - 3:00 PM For complete details or to register, please call Rebecca Amoah at (617) 542-7654. of relationships you have. January 14th Free Legal Clinic This model says that 150 Centre Street 6:30 PM Green Briar Pub, 304 Washington St., Brighton there are five stages we go All clinics are first-come, first-served. For complete details, please call (617) 542-7654.

Dorchester, MA 02124 through when we change rd Danielle Owen January 22 Career Advancement Online Learning Computer Course something in our life. I Monday - Thursday IIIC, 100 Franklin Street, Boston, MA have listed them along 9:30 AM - 2:00 PM For complete details or to register, please call Rebecca Amoah at (617) 542-7654. chocolate, or shopping with some example state- January 23rd Free Legal Clinic for clothes you don’t need ments that can help you 6:30 PM St. Mark’s Parish, 1725 Dorchester Ave., Dorchester – and only go out on a identify how ready you All clinics are first-come, first-served. For complete details, please call (617) 542-7654.

Saturday night! might be to change: February You are going to give Taste of Ireland at the Cape Cod Irish Village Pre-Contemplation: up smoking, and try to `I’m not using drugs`; ‘I Free Health Screening FOLEY LAW OFFICES, P.C. Saturday Citizenship Clinic exercise more. Some are spend the same as anyone successful with one or two else!’; ‘It’s you who has the Attorney John Philip Foley March Host Families welcome first Wider Horizons group but for most of us, we are problem, not me!’ Permanent Residency & Citizenship • Family & Business left with a shoulder full of Contemplation: “I Immigration • Labor Certification & Temporary Visas April Home Health Aide Course guilt, and we throw away hate smelling of smoke ALL Nationalities & AILA Members the list and pledge to try but I need my cigarettes to CPR Certification Course again next year. Maybe, help me cope with stress`; instead of the “usual,” we “I’ll stop tomorrow”; “I will For more information, please call us at (617) 5427-7654 or visit www.iiicenter.org. Page 8 January 2013 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com Profile At the office, on the golf course, or wherever he finds himself, Dick Connolly is always practicing

By Greg O’Brien Special to the BIR At 16, Richard Francis Connolly Jr. had a vision for life. A golf prodigy at Woburn Country Club where his game was moving toward scratch, he queued up on a Friday night to a fully stocked buffet table that would have satisfied the most famished adolescent: steaming, lean roast beef, honey ham, sausage and pork, and a selection of thinly sliced deli meats that would delight a king. His buddies, all playing the following day in a junior tournament, put on the feedbags. To everyone’s surprise, Connolly wistfully walked away from the table empty-handed. “You hungry, son?” a tournament director inquired. “Yeah, but I don’t eat meat on Fridays,” Connolly said. Fully impressed with Connolly’s faith and discipline, the man replied, “You keep thinking like that, son, and you’ll be just fine throughout life. Always do what you think is right!” Dick Connolly—today one of the country’s most successful stockbrokers, overseeing a team at Morgan Stanley that manages close to $4 billion in assets, a man whom Barron’s calls one of the nation’s top fi- nancial advisers, ranking him in the 99.96 percentile among some 300,000 brokers in the country — never forgot those words of counsel. His gut instincts have endured through all the birdies, bogeys, and mulligans of life. He’s fully comfortable in his own skin, and at 72, that’s something to say. The pride of working-class Woburn, where he made his mark in this closely knit community and on the links of Woburn CC, caddying at the nine-hole munici- pal golf course from an early age and working there part-time through grad school at Babson, Connolly has remained faithful to his roots. He is a patron saint of caddies and individuals in need, with more contribu- tions, affiliations, and honors to his credit than most anyone in Boston. In an edifying profile last year of Connolly’s accomplishments, the Boston Business Journal dubbed him the “Blue-Collar Broker.” Connolly is all about the tick, tick—not so much Dick and Ann Marie Connolly: a Holy Cross combo. Photo courtesy Connolly family the pulse of the stock market, but the spray from sprinkler heads that maintains verdant greens and the links whose parents encouraged the study of the about nemesis Boston College, “Are they accredited fairways. You must water your resources, Connolly yin-yang of human nature. yet?” Connolly’s three sons also give him needed advises, to keep them green. Golf is life to Connolly, “When you have great parents, you can’t have a ballast: Richard, who teaches English and coaches and he plays golf and life with verve. At home, work, better start than that. They don’t make parents the soccer, hockey, and baseball at St. Sebastian School and on the course ,where his handicap is still in the way they used to. I was never afraid of my folks, but in Needham; Ryan, who works with his father after single digits, he lives the words of his idol, Arnold desperately didn’t want to disappoint them. That coming off five years on the New York Morgan Stan- Palmer, who once said, “I never quit trying. I never kept me in line. It would break my heart to disap- ley trading desk; and Kevin, a regional marketing felt that I didn’t have a chance to win.” point them.” associate at Putnam Investments. Connolly has never quit trying, even when it came Yesterday and today. After graduating from Babson, Connolly began his to pursuing Palmer as a client. For 35 years, he has No worries, his folks smile broadly at the Lord’s side business career at Ford Motor Company in its execu- handled Palmer’s investments adroitly; they are close today, as their son continues his pursuit of excellence tive training program, then joined Merrill Lynch in friends, to the point that Palmer gave the commence- into his eighth decade. There are no signs of retreat 1968 where he was recognized as Merrill’s most suc- ment address at Connolly’s oldest son Richard’s high from this man with a leprechaun’s smile. cessful “rookie” broker. But this was no rookie. In the school graduation. There are other celebrity friends A jock at heart, Connolly’s 130-pound frame as a early 70s, he was hired by Blythe, Eastman to run its and clients in Connolly’s loop, like hockey legend Bobby youth dictated his sport; it also helped that his uncles Fixed Income Desk where he successfully managed Orr, but he is equally comfortable on Horn Pond, a had game in their genes. So he turned to golf, becom- accounts for local institutions. After PaineWebber primary source of the Mystic River in proletarian ing captain of the Malden Catholic High School team, acquired Blythe, then UBS, Connolly enjoyed a Woburn. Perhaps that’s what endears them to him. then captain again at Holy Cross where early on he successful 34-year career at the expanded firm as In the last census, the per capita income of Woburn had visions of becoming a dentist before deciding thaty a 30-year member of the elite Chairman’s Club and was $26,207. When his father, Richard Francis Sr., he didn’t want to spend his life “looking into people’s UBS’s top producing broker for more than 20 years. worked in Watertown at BF Goodrich as a supervisor mouths all day.” So he majored in history, then turned Maneuvering the often-serpentine pathways of finance in the footwear section, “he never saw the north side to finance, earning an MBA in business at Babson. with aplomb, Connolly joined Morgan Stanley in 2007, of $12,000 in salary, but never owed anyone a penny,” His educational pedigree is not that simple; it but- reaching Chairman’s Club status in only 10 months, says Connolly, who was raised with the admonition, tresses his parents’ core Catholic values. With great something of a Wall Street record. “It doesn’t matter whether you’re handsome, rich or promise, Connolly was offered a golf scholarship to Along the way, Connolly has served on numerous smart, if people can’t trust you, if they don’t think Wake Forest University, which at the time boasted cultural, non-profit, and charitable boards, including you’re a good person, then all is wasted.” Connolly is one of the finest golf programs in the nation. But the Ouimet Fund, Boston Symphony Orchestra, Soci- speaking in his Morgan Stanley office on High Street since the university was founded as a mainstream ety of Jesus, Worcester Polytechnical Institute, and the on Boston’s Financial District. Protestant school, no dice. His parents, with little Children’s Medical Research Foundation in Ireland That admonishment had roots in Mayo and Galway, financial resource, wanted their son to have a Jesuit where a wing at Dublin’s Our Lady’s Hospital was where his grandparents were born. Work ethic in the education, and insisted upon it. The heavens opened, recently named in his honor. His awards are equally Connolly household was as much a staple as Sunday and Connolly was awarded a scholarship from the impressive: an honorary degree at St. Thomas Aquinas Mass and then pot roast for dinner. Francis Ouimet Caddie Scholarship Fund. In time, College in Sparkhill, New York; honors from Bridge “My dad was strict in his own way, but easy going he reciprocated many times over, becoming a driving Over Trouble Waters (BOTW), a high-risk youth so long as you toed the line,” says Connolly in noting force behind the fund; he is its leading benefactor. He counseling and education program; and the Laboure that his father also was a Woburn alderman for close establishing the Ouimet Fund’s annual banquet and Medal from Boston’s Laboure College, awarded to a to 20 years. “He could have been mayor, but my mother welcomed Palmer as its first honoree. That event is member of the business community who embodies wasn’t going to have any part of that.” now the largest annual golf banquet in America. Over the spirit of St. Catherine Laboure in generosity, The elder Connolly was a star athlete at Woburn the years, the Fund has honored the likes of President humanity, and kindness. He also is among the leading High School, one of the best in the history of the town. George H.W. Bush, Jack Nicholas, Tom Watson, Greg annual contributors to more than 15 organizations He played football and baseball, but never went to Norman, Curtis Strange, Ben Crenshaw, Nancy Lopez, and philanthropies. Among them: Catholic Charities, college. Instead, he paid the bills. and others, raising millions in scholarship dollars for Inner City Catholic Schools, Boston Children’s Hos- Connolly’s mother Ruth May (Doherty), second old- young men and women. pital, Wareham’s Tobey Hospital, Combined Jewish est of ten children, nine of them boys, seven of whom From the very start, mentoring has been the foun- Philanthropies, Colby College, Davidson College, played scratch golf or close to it, “was the prettiest dation stone of Connolly’s legacy. When he was 11 College of the Holy Cross, the Joey Fund benefiting woman in Woburn; she had the whole package,” he years old, he caddied for a successful businessman Cystic Fibrosis Research, and The Pine Street Inn. says. “She never went to college, she never had a named Jim Powers who treated him like a son and “I truly understand how lucky I am,” Connolly says. driver’s license, she never flew in a plane, and yet she instructed him on the need for practice, whether on “I work very hard, but a lot of people work hard. I was the single most impressive individual that I’ve the golf course or the board room. “If you’re going to know it’s not all about me. The best lessons I ever ever known with her work ethic, concern for people, be successful at anything, if you want to be as good got in life were from just basic people. I couldn’t have the way she dealt with adversity and serious illness as you can be,” Powers told him, “you’re going to have grown up at a better time.” in life. She was an amazing woman. I’ve been blessed to spend a lot of lonely hours practicing. Practice. As to his financial acumen, he is quick to retort to be around a lot of big people in life, and she was Practice. Practice.” “I’m not saving lives.” the biggest. She was that great.” Connolly is still practicing, and quick to give praise Dick, your parents and Jim Powers, your mentor, She was tough, too, never putting up with flak from to those on his team, an investment group at Morgan would call you out on that. You are saving lives. Keep Connolly or his sibling. “If my mother ever heard me Stanley that includes talented brokers and staff, some practicing! sass someone, oh, my God, she’d tattoo me quick!” of whom have been with him for as long as 27 years. Greg O’Brien is president of Stony Brook Group, a In all ways, Connolly is the fine work-in- progress He points to his loving family as the prime moti- publishing and political/communications strategy of his parents and his caddying days, which continue vation for success, particularly to his partner Ann firm based on Cape Cod. A regular Boston Irish Re- to propel him on Wall Street. “You see the best and Marie (Reilly) from Providence, who also attended porter contributor, he is the author/editor of several worst in people on the course,” says this student of Holy Cross. The couple is still joined at the hip to books and writes for regional and national publica- the college at Worcester, and Connolly often jokes tions. Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com January 2013 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 9 Boston irish Boston Irish Arts, Entertainment, Reporter Travel & More Katie McNally answers big challenge with élan By Sean Smith Whirlwind tour with Carlos Nunez Special to the BIR Boston-area fiddler Ka- tie McNally already knew it was going to be a busy fall, what with recording her first album, getting ready for her annual stint with the Childsplay ensemble and, basically, living life as a college grad trying to make it as Gregg Hammer appears in Frank McCourt’s musi- a Celtic musician. cal revue “The Irish And How They Got That Way” Then, suddenly, oppor- at Davis Square Theatre in Somerville, January tunity came knocking. 24 - March 17. McNally, a Westford native and Somerville resident, got the chance Frank McCourt’s to go on tour in October with Carlos Nuñez, an internationally renowned ‘The Irish And How bagpiper whose extensive resume includes collabo- rations with The Chief- They Got That Way’ tains, Jackson Browne, Sharon Shannon, and Opens Jan. 24 Ry Cooder. It meant a frenzied couple of weeks at Davis Square learning a whole new Katie McNally in concert with Carlos Nuñez at The Burren. Michael McNally photo repertoire to play with By Bob Donovan musicians she had never months before, had been and just because you have Summer School at Boston Special to the BIR met before, followed by a finishing up her senior one set doesn’t necessarily College inspired her to Frank McCourt, born in Brooklyn and raised in slate of performances (one year at Tufts University mean you have the other. further explorations of Limerick, will forever be known as the author of the of them at The Burren in – and McNally not only Carlos has both and that’s Celtic music, especially Pulitzer Prize-winning “Angela’s Ashes.” What may Somerville) interspersed enjoyed just about every why he’s so successful.” from Scotland and Cape not be as well known is that he also wrote the musi- with thousands of miles of minute of the experience, McNally started out Breton. She attended the cal revue “The Irish And How They Got That Way,” travel across North Amer- but in her view, emerged at age 8 as a classical Boston Harbor Scottish which premiered at the Irish Repertory Theatre in ica, and between-gigs from it as a better per- violinist, but when she Fiddle School and then 1997. Recounting the tumultuous history of the Irish downtime that featured a former. was 11 her teacher, Joe studied with Hanneke experience, both on the Emerald Isle and here in memorable museum tour, “The biggest thing I feel Jewett, introduced her to Cassel, a highly acclaimed America, the evening is a colorful tapestry of music sing-alongs in a piano I learned from Carlos is fiddle tunes from Celtic Boston-area fiddler in the and dance with a healthy dose of irreverent humor bar, and even a phone the difference between traditions. A class with American-Scottish style. added. The musical numbers include: “Galway Bay,” conversation with a pop being just a musician and Catriona MacDonald, a All the while, McNally “The Rose of Tralee,” “Finnegan’s Wake,” “Has Anybody music icon. being an entertainer,” fiddle player from the was venturing more and Here Seen Kelly?,” “Harrigan,” “No Irish Need Apply,” All pretty heady stuff explains McNally. “Those Shetland Islands, at the more into the concert “Skibbereen,” and others. for someone who, only six involve two skill sets, Gaelic Roots Festival and (Continued on page 14) For the production playing Davis Square Theatre in Somerville from January 24 to March 17, produc- ers have reunited the lively six-member cast from the well-received revised production that played Philadel- Gaelic Roots spring slate announced phia’s Kimmel Center. Featured is Gregg Hammer. Boston College’s Gaelic On April 2 in the Walsh In singing his praises, reviewers said Hammer was “a Roots series of traditional Hall Function Room, Mur- standout” . . . “the type of guy everyone wants to sit music will host the ac- phy (guitar, mandolin, next to at the bar while drinking a pint,” adding that claimed duo of fiddler Matt piano, foot percussion, he delivered “an impressive rendition of ‘Danny Boy’ Cranitch and accordion- vocals) and Tracy (fiddle) that is surely one the highlights of the entire show.” ist Jackie Daly during will present traditional Raised in California, Gregg traces his own family the spring semester por- music from Newfound- roots back to Cork. The actor-composer was seen in the tion of its schedule. Also land, Quebec, Ireland (Continued on page 13) featured will be Boston and New England. In native Brendan Bulger, addition to playing with New England husband- Tracy — as a duo, and as Boston Comhaltas wife duo Keith Murphy part of the popular trio and Becky Tracy, and the Nightingale — Murphy honors Reynolds trio of Kathleen Conneely, has shared his natural, The Boston branch of the Irish cultural organization Dan Gurney and Eamon intimate singing and qui- Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann has a new name, honor- O’Leary. etly powerful percussive- ing its late co-founder who was a vital member of the The series, directed A concert by fiddler Matt Cranitch and accordion- style guitar style in stints Boston Irish community. by Sullivan Artist-in- ist Jackie Daly highlights the winter/spring Gaelic with Boston-area fiddle Last month, the branch was rededicated as Reyn- Residence and master Roots series. ensemble Childsplay, olds-Hanafin-Cooley, in recognition of the late Larry fiddler Séamus Connolly among others. Tracy, who Reynolds, who helped found the organization in 1975 and sponsored by the win O’Connor, and the the past two decades. studied Irish fiddling with and was its chairman. A celebrated musician, leader, Boston College Center for soundtrack of the indepen- Cranitch and Daly, Brendan Mulvihill and and organizer in the local Irish music scene over six Irish Programs, brings to dent film “The Bounty.” whose concert takes place Eugene O’Donnell, has decades, Reynolds died on Oct. 3. campus acclaimed musi- The Feb. 12 concert March 14 in the Walsh a strong background and The original Hanafin-Cooley branch name also honors cians and experts in Irish, with Conneely (whistle), Hall Function Room, are wealth of experience in the memory of two other prominent and influential Scottish and other related Gurney (accordion) and regarded as among the the New England contra musicians in Boston’s Irish history, fiddler Michael Gaelic music traditions. O’Leary (guitar, vocals) foremost interpreters of dance scene. Hanafin and accordionist Joseph Cooley. Gaelic Roots events, all of – postponed from No- the rich tradition of instru- The 2012-13 Gaelic In addition, Tara Lynch was appointed as the branch which begin at 6:30 p.m., vember due to weather mental music from Sliabh Roots series will close chairperson. A native of the Bronx, NY, Lynch moved are free and open to the conditions – will take Luachra, the unique cul- out on April 17 with an to the Boston area in 1998 and soon became an active public. place in the Gasson Hall tural area on the borders Irish dance and ceili in member of Boston Comhaltas. She joined the branch’s Bulger, a former stu- Irish Room. Conneely is of northwest Cork and the Gasson Irish Room, music school faculty and later served as the school’s dent of Connolly’s, will a widely respected musi- east Kerry that is marked with music by Connolly, executive director. open the spring schedule cian and teacher who has by a special repertoire of Boston College students, “I am honored and humbled to have been elected as on Jan. 31 in the Walsh often appeared at BC, and tunes as well as a very dis- and other area musicians. chairperson of the Reynolds-Hanafin-Cooley branch,” Hall Function Room. His has just released her first tinctive style of playing. There will be participatory said Lynch. “It’s quite a challenge to follow in the steps credits include the prize- album. Gurney, who lived The two — who were part dances, all of which will we of Larry: He was an amazing friend and mentor to me. winning recording “Music in Boston while attending of the faculty at Gaelic be taught; no experience is Thankfully, we have a wonderful group of dedicated at the House” with Mar- Harvard University, re- Roots when it was a sum- necessary. officers and members to carry on Larry’s legacy and ty Fahey and Kathleen leased a well-received solo mer festival — have made See the Gaelic Roots continue to nurture and grow the branch and its goal Gavin, the Huntington album in 2011. Dublin na- or appeared on numer- website at bc.edu/gaelic- of preserving the traditions of Ireland through it’s Theatre production of tive O’Leary has been part ous recordings, including roots music, song, dance and language.” Edwin O’Connor’s “The of the thriving New York their 2010 release “The – SEAN SMITH Last Hurrah” by Ed- City Irish music scene for Living Stream.” Page 10CTC_10x16_Ad.pdf 1 January12/21/12 4:37 2013PM BOSTON IRISH Reporter Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com

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Page 12 January 2013 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com At last, tin whistler Conneely comes through: it’s an album By Sean Smith flowing style of playing about, and trying to re- doing these jigs, both of Special to the BIR in what her long-time construct, various tunes which he played regularly For years, Kathleen friend and fellow musi- from her past, but not when I was growing up.” Conneely’s friends asked cian Seamus Connolly always when she had a Sister and brother Con- her the same question praises as “an unhurried whistle close to hand. neely blend very well, over and over: “So when fashion.” The selections Fortunately, technology too, such as on a trio are you going to make an represent an anthology provided a solution. of jigs that begins with album?” of Conneely’s musical “I would sing the tunes “Joe Derrane’s” – associ- Conneely has finally life, mainly encompassing into my answering ma- ated with the celebrated satisfied them, although tunes she heard growing chine,” she says. “Then, Boston accordionist – and the result may only create up in a family of musicians I’d go back and listen, a set of reels, “The Old demand for a sequel. – although Conneely her- and document them, start Torn Petticoat/Thady A widely acclaimed tin self is a native of Bedford, organizing them into sets, Casey’s Fancy/The Bal- whistle player with strong England, and her parents decide on the various lina Lasses.” Mick’s bou- ties to Boston’s Irish mu- were from Galway and keys, and so on. All in all, zouki style is built more sic community, Conneely Longford. Those family it was a good education: around arpeggios and released “The Coming connections are further Although the recording harmonies rather than of Spring” this past fall, expressed in the presence went fine, I think if I were straightforward chord marking the occasion with of her brother Mick’s bou- to do it again, I would be runs, and thus enhances a concert last month at zouki accompaniments, more prepared.” the melody; it also sits The Burren in Somerville and a duet with her father, A definite highlight of comfortably alongside – one of her many famil- Mick Sr., on a jig medley; the recording for Con- McGrath’s piano, which is iar local haunts. She’ll also joining her on the neely was bringing her spare yet supportive. And be returning to town on album are pianist Brian father into the studio, Ringo McDonagh fans of February 12 along with McGrath and legendary where they recorded the yore will be delighted to accordionist Dan Gurney bodhran player Johnny medley “The Primrose hear that he’s lost none and guitarist Eamon “Ringo” McDonagh, who Vale/Lark in the Morning of his deft touch – his O’Leary for a concert at along with McGrath and #1” – although there was a pairings with Conneely Kathleen Conneely, a former Boston resident with Boston College as part of Mick Conneely are mem- little subterfuge involved. on some of the tunes, such strong ties to the local Irish music scene, released the Gaelic Roots series bers of the non-Frankie “I didn’t tell Dad where as “The Gneevgullia Reel” her first CD recently. [bc.edu/gaelicroots]. Gavin version of De Dan- we were going,” she and “Hardiman the Fid- Lenihan and Noreen tival. Recorded in Galway, nan. laughs. “But once we got dler,” are a treat. O’Donoghue,” says Con- “This was a way for me the 14-track CD is a show- As she prepared for in there, everything went “Piano, bouzouki and neely. “It’s always been a to simply put my particu- case for Conneely’s lyrical, the recording, Conneely fine. He had great rhythm, bodhran are as good as it found herself thinking and it was loads of fun gets, especially when you favorite recording of mine, lar stamp on the music have those guys playing and I like their version I’ve loved since child- them,” says Conneely of ‘Lark in the Morning,’ hood,” explains Conneely, of her accompanists. “I which they refer to as ‘Wil- who now lives in Rhode couldn’t ask for a better lie Clancy’s version’ – it’s Island. “There aren’t supporting cast.” so beautiful I had to play that many recordings of Two other tracks stand it four times through, and solo whistles, although out as highlights: A med- I knew it was the perfect people like Mary Bergin ley that leads with a reel way to end the album.” and Joanie Madden have partly composed by the For Conneely, the expe- done some superb CDs, of estimable Doolin whistle rience of recording “The course. In fact, growing player Micho Russell, and Coming of Spring” was up I was less influenced which Conneely dedicates a satisfying one, and not by whistle players and to her late husband Mi- only from a sheer musical more by fiddle and accor- chael Shorrock, who had standpoint. Reacquaint- dion – Seamus Connolly, a special fondness for ing herself with parts of Paddy O’Brien, Kathleen Russell’s part of the world; her repertoire, she says, Collins, Marty Byrnes, and the concluding jig provided an opportunity Liz Carroll and Andy medley (“Rosemary Lane/ to reflect on her educa- McGann were among My Brother Tom/Hinchy’s tion and development as a the musicians I listened Delight/Lark in the Morn- musician, which included to a lot. ing #2”) that also contains the five years she lived in “So, I thought I could a Doolin association. Boston, where she was a just offer a sense of what “That last tune came regular at the Brendan my involvement with the from a recording called Behan, O’Leary’s, Kitty instrument and the tradi- ‘Fisher Street,’ which is O’Shea’s, and other ses- tion has been.” the main street in Doo- sions, and at the Boston lin, by the MacMahon College Gaelic Roots fes- brothers John and Sea- mus, along with Dermot

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 www.bostonpublicschools.org/register Gormley 617-635-9046 Funeral Home BPS is also registering grades 6 & 9 during this time. 617-323-8600 Note: current BPS students will receive their applications through their schools and do not need to visit an FRC. All other grades register: February 6 - March 22. 2055 Centre Street West Roxbury, MA Start your countdown to kindergarten at www.countdowntokindergarten.org www.Gormleyfuneral.com Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com January 2013 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 13 Donald, Bronwyn Keith-Hynes, Joey Abarta, Core 4, music legend Larry Reynolds (performers include The Liz Hanley Band, Nic Gareiss & Anna Lindblad, George Keith & Sean Gannon, John, Lisa & Josie Amanda Cavanaugh, Mairin Ui Cheide, Skylark, Bel- Coyne, Cara Frankowicz, Patrick Hutchinson and clare, Corvus, Kira & Cliff McGann, Armand Aromin Regina Delaney). There will be plenty of special guest & Dan Accardi, Diane Taraz, Michael O’Leary, Ivonne performers throughout the evening. Hernandez & Adrianna Ciccone, Bob Bradshaw, Laura But there will be more fun to come on Mon., Jan. Cortese, Emerald Rae, Carraroe, Matt Heaton & The 14, and the debut of the new monthly BCMFest Ses- Electric Heaters, The Whiskey Boys & Shinbone Alley, sion in Club Passim. The session will take place on Molly Pinto Madigan, The Boston Scottish Fiddle Club, the second Monday of each month and will be led by The Royal Scottish Country Dance Society of Boston, a core of talented area musicians that includes Katie The Bell Family, and Kyte MacKillop & Friends. McNally, Armand Aromin, Neil Pearlman, Lindsay A column of news and updates of the Boston Celtic The festivities begin on January 11 with a Friday Straw, Dan Accardi and Caroline O’Shea. Their com- Music Fest (BCMFest), which celebrates the Boston night kick-off concert at Club Passim as well as the bined repertoire of Irish, Scottish, and Cape Breton area’s rich heritage of Irish, Scottish, Cape Breton mu- Boston Urban Ceilidh — BCMFest’s Celtic dance party tunes will make for an enjoyable evening, and, say sic and dance with a grassroots, musician-run winter — at The Atrium (50 Church St.), and continue the BCMFest organizers, will provide the opportunity to music festival and other events during the year. following day with family-oriented events in the morn- explore the ever-evolving Celtic music traditions in an —SEAN SMITH ing at Club Passim and four stages of performances, informal, sociable atmosphere. Time for the celebration—Things are rounding participatory dance and jam sessions throughout the Those attending the BCMFest Session are invited to into shape for BCMFest 2013, which takes place Janu- day at Passim and nearby First Parish Church, Cam- bring an instrument and sit in, dance, or share a song ary 11 and 12 at locations in Harvard Square. The bridge (3 Church St.). or story. Each BCMFest Session begins at 7 p.m. and festival, which marks its 10th anniversary this year, Concluding the festival will be the Saturday night is free of charge; there is a suggested donation of $5 to features some of the Boston area’s best performers in the finale concert at First Parish, emceed by “A Celtic So- show appreciation and support for the musicians who Irish, Scottish, Cape Breton, and other Celtic traditions. journ” host Brian O’Donovan, with Cape Breton music are giving their time to lead the session. This year’s lineup includes The Deadstring Ensemble, from Emerald Rae (fiddle), Matt Phelps (pipes) and For more details on BCMFest and 2013 and informa- George Keith & Sean Gannon, Hanneke Cassel & Mike Janine Randall (piano), a performance by Highland tion about BCMFest, see passim.org/bcmfest. Block, The Coyne Family, Katie McNally & Eric Mc- Dance Boston, as well as a tribute to Boston Irish Frank McCourt’s ‘The Irish And How They Got That Way’ (Continued from page 9) cemeteries because they to do it. national company of “Je- didn’t want to buried BIR: So to circle back to sus Christ Superstar” and next to Irish people. It’s “The Irish And How They has appeared in regional just incredible that this Got That Way,” is there productions of “Les Mis- country has [seen)]that a particular moment in erables,” “City of Angels” [kind of discrimination] the show that has special and “The Fantasticks,” with every new group meaning for you? among others. that’s come in. For the GH: There are tons of From his home in New Irish, it took the Civil War them. We talked about York, he spoke by phone for them to really prove “Danny Boy” – that’s an recently about bringing themselves – what great obvious one. But there’s “The Irish And How They soldiers they were for a song called “Rare Old Got That Way” to Boston. their country. They were Times” and it’s talking Here’s an edited look at accepted after that for the about how the streets of our conversation. most part. Dublin are becoming pave- BIR: What is it that BIR: Tell me how you ment now and you can’t makes audiences embrace got your start as an actor. ever go back from that. this show the way they do? GH: I’m the youngest of I’ve got this speech right GH: First off, it’s writ- four boys and we’re kind before the song and its a ten by Frank McCourt. of a sports family, but we really poignant moment We’re telling the story of also grew up on music. My where I talk about tech- the history of the Irish and Dad loved Irish music . . nology coming and things we basically sing all the . I went to Cal State Ful- getting bigger, but you folk songs that you know lerton for musical theater can’t lose sight of what it and love . . . We get to be – it’s one of the bigger was and what’s been there dozens of characters, each musical theater schools before – the history. That of us . . . The music takes on the West Coast – and really gets me every night. it to another level. What just decided that’s really makes it special, I think, what I wanted to do with The cast of Frank McCourt’s musical revue “The Irish And How They Got That R. J. Donovan is pub- that is that the audience my life. And so I moved Way” -- Gregg Hammer, Janice Landry, Jon Dykstra, Meredith Beck, Andrew lisher of onStageBoston. knows these songs and out to New York and have Crowe and Irene Molloy -- playing Davis Square Theatre in Somerville, Janu- com. it brings back a lot of been working around ever ary 24 - March 17. ------memories. since. BIR: And you get to bit. I had been to Ireland you away and how many really a great way to save BIR: Do you have a once before with my fam- stops did you make. money for an actor. You “The Irish And How sing “Danny Boy.” memory of your first time ily. This time, going into GH: I went on this get free room and board, They Got That Way,” GH: I get to sing “Danny on stage? anuary 24 - March 17, Da- Boy”. . . And there are the pubs and listening to cruise because I was go- plus they’re paying you GH: My first time on the older men sing songs ing to see the world – 48 and you get to travel and vis Square Theatre, 255 times, more often than stage, geeze, probably Elm Street, Somerville. not, I’ll see grown men and tell stories was my ab- different countries. I was see the world. It’s not fourth grade in elemen- solute favorite part of the on it for nine months. That something I would prob- Tickets: 800-660-8462 or weeping in the audience. tary school. I only did it frankmccourtstheirish. It’s very touching. whole cruise experience. was about five months too ably do if I had a family, because my brother did it BIR: How long were long [laughing] . . . It’s so it was wonderful time com. BIR: In addition to the and I thought it was cool lighter side, McCourt also and did everything that he tells of the hostilities and did. I’m sure that annoyed hatred the Irish have en- him. I ended up doing it dured over time. and was a big hit [laugh- GH: Yeah, that was ing] . . . As the youngest, something that I knew I liked the attention and Geiger Gibson Community Health Center somewhat about, but that was one way to get it. a division of Harbor Health Services, Inc. learned more, and re- BIR: I hear you’ve en- searched more, once I tertained on a lot of cruise 250 Mount Vernon Street, Dorchester, MA 02125 got in the show. It really ships. surprised me. African GH: I just finished Americans were protest- working on a cruise. We ing to have their own were in Ireland quite a FOR THE TIMES WHEN YOUR HEALTH CANNOT WAIT… CONVENIENT & FAST MEDICAL APPOINTMENTS FOR COMMON ILLNESSES & MINOR INJURIES Same Day Access available at Geiger Gibson Community Health Center *)9)5
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-2 :::,,6-86 *%')&33/'31 %5&35)%07,")59-')62' Page 14 January 2013 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com McNally answers big challenge with élan (Continued from page 9) other musicians, includ- ment, McNally piped up: impulse. She recognized sound files and even a phone. “There is a beauti- spotlight, with various ing friend and mentor “I’ll do it.” that this was a prime Skype session with Nuñez ful girl here you must talk bands or as a soloist, Cassel, who agreed to “I was almost kidding,” opportunity for somebody himself. to,” he said, and handed and taking on the role of serve as producer. In recalls McNally, “because trying to get established “It was incredible, for McNally the phone. At fiddle teacher. Then in late summer, McNally Carlos is so high-profile, as a musician. all the differences, how the other end of the line 2009, she was invited to launched a campaign and I didn’t have the “It was a chance to play Galician music was simi- was Jackson Browne, join Childsplay, which to fund her CD project, reputation that Hanneke at large-sized venues I lar to Scots and Cape who was celebrating his gathers some of the most “Flourish,” on the Kick- has. But because she’s wouldn’t be able to by Breton,” she says. “Mu- birthday. McNally wished celebrated traditional starter website; she met worked with me so much, myself. It was a way to ñeiras, for example, are him many happy returns and folk performers from her goal in two days, and Hanneke had confidence get my name out there, in 6/8 time like a jig, of the day. Boston and elsewhere in wound up raising nearly in me, and Carlos trusted a jump-start. And, of but they have a Spanish “He was very nice, very New England for an an- twice the amount she had her judgment.” course, it was a pretty flavor and even an Arab complimentary. He told nual tour and occasional originally asked for. Says Cassel, “Carlos good challenge for me as influence, particularly in me, ‘You have to be a recordings and concert Dramatic life events was looking for someone a musician.” the harmonies. There also real monster to play with videos; she has played can often have unlikely, with a similar vibe as One aspect of that chal- is the commonality of the Carlos.’ ” with the group every year nondescript beginnings. mine, and I had no prob- lenge was taking a crash bagpipe between the Gali- It might have been easy since then. So it was, during the lem recommending Katie. course in the music of cian and Scottish tradi- to get swept up in all the The past few years also recording of “Flourish,” She is, first and foremost, Galicia, the Celtic-influ- tions, although Galician excitement, but McNally have seen McNally turn when Cassel mentioned an amazing player and a enced region of Spain that pipes are more subtle and was indeed a quick study increasingly to her own that Nuñez had invited hard worker. She’s able to is Nuñez’s birthplace. Mc- sensitive than the great – not only of the music tradition-inspired com- her to go on his first-ever learn tunes quickly and Nally wasn’t completely Highland bagpipes.” she was playing but also positions, while building North American tour but, very well, and she’s very unfamiliar with Galician The other challenge of the traveling-musician a partnership with gui- because of scheduling good with people.” tunes, thanks to her stints that awaited McNally lifestyle. tarist-mandolinist Eric problems and tendonitis However spur-of-the- with Childsplay, but after was getting used to the “I learned the impor- McDonald. Earlier this in her arm, she doubted moment her “I’ll do it” putting finishing touches dynamics of an ensemble tance of pacing myself,” year, McNally decided the she could do it. One day, comment might seem, on “Flourish,” she set built around a featured she says. “It was key to time was ripe to record a after Cassel noted her McNally says her inter- about learning in ear- performer, and a very take time to just chill CD, so she enlisted the unsuccessful efforts thus est in taking Cassel’s nest her new repertoire distinctive one at that. out, not be overwhelmed help of McDonald and far to recruit a replace- place was not some rash through sheet music, Nuñez is known for his by all the travel, the rock star-like energy and performances, the people charisma, as well as his we met.” virtuosity, and McNally As the tour went on, Mc- knew she had some high Nally’s respect for Nuñez standards to meet. What’s only grew. “I was amazed more, she didn’t have a at how hard Carlos was chance to rehearse with working, not just at the Nuñez until the day of music but everything the first show. else: e-mails or calls to Fortunately, notes Mc- promoters, organizers, Nally, she quickly found radio announcers – he Nuñez and her new col- really paid attention to a leagues were a delight. lot of those details.” “They’ve been playing Most of all, however and touring together for different their personal years, so they are total styles and deportment pros. They were very might be, McNally saw supportive of me. At the in Nuñez a worthy role end of the tour, I had four model for striking a rap- friends.” port with one’s audience. Cassel, who has played “It sounds simple: as a back-up musician to standing up rather than performers like Cathie sitting down when you Ryan, agrees that adjust- play, for example, and ing to personalities and smiling a lot more during temperaments is a fact of the performance. But you band life, but by no means have to pay attention to an unpleasant one. these things, because “It’s something you just they bring you closer to don’t really learn about the people who are watch- until you’re on tour,” ing and listening to you. she says. “I’ve person- It’s not being phony; it’s ally found it a lot of fun, just a way to show the getting to interact with audience that you really different people. And the care about what you’re traveling is awesome.” doing.” For McNally, those McNally didn’t have a nearly four weeks on tour whole lot of time to kick live on as a kaleidoscope back when the tour was of memories, sights, and over. There were still sensations. There was the some details on the CD to stop in Seattle, playing in attend to, and she had the front of an enthusiastic Childsplay tour for which audience at a concert hall to prepare. December that is home to the city’s was a bit more low-key, symphony orchestra, fol- but this month she’ll be lowed by a huge reception playing with McDonald attended by a number of at BCMFest in Harvard Spanish dignitaries and Square (January 11 and ex-pats. Then there was 12) and on January 18 the show at Phoenix’s at the Loring-Greenough Musical Instrument Mu- House in Jamaica Plain seum, enhanced by a pri- as part of the notloB vate tour of the museum, Parlour Concerts series, with its collection of some as well as recording a new 13,000 instruments. album and concert video “We were like kids in with Childsplay. There’s a candy shop,” says Mc- also her CD release con- Nally. “It was so cool see- cert at Club Passim on ing fiddles from around January 24. the world. This was a That may all sound real spiritual experience, humdrum compared to because it showed you the gallivanting around the connectedness of differ- country with a quar- ent music from different tet of genial, fun-loving cultures.” Spanish musicians, but And then there was McNally is perfectly de- Minneapolis, where the lighted to be playing close group had a few days off; to home. the itinerary included a “I just love being able visit to the Mall of Amer- to have this music, and ica and an evening at a the people I play it with, piano bar, where McNally in my life,” she says. “I took part in some band don’t know where it will sing-alongs of classic hits take me, but considering by the likes of Billy Joel where I’ve been already, I and The Beatles. have to think the possibil- One night, hanging out ities are pretty exciting.” with the guys, McNally For more on Katie Mc- heard Nuñez’s brother Nally, see katieanderic- Xurxo speaking on his cell music.com. Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com January 2013 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 15 is built around a haunting vocal riff by O Lionaird and CD Review/Sean Smith Eimear Quinn, with Lunny, Cooney, flutist Conor Byrne, Luka Bloom, “This New Morning” • Singer- banjoist/mandolinist Dirk Powell and a subtle orchestral songwriter-true believer Bloom marks an ending and accompaniment. By contrast, “Their Little Wings” relies a beginning with this new release. His recordings of on a delicate, plaintive fiddle backing by Caoimhín Ó the past several years have been of a reflective nature, Raghallaigh to offer its message of concern and resigna- going back to and occasionally retooling his previous tion, familiar to anyone who’s had a teenager in their body of work, such as in his 2010 release “Dreams in lives (“I can’t protect you from the world/I can’t protect America.” Now comes “This New Morning,” which with you from yourself”). one notable exception is a collection of new songs, all There’s long been a kind of kinetic aspect to Bloom’s imbued with Bloom’s characteristic deeply felt medita- work, expressed in the lyrics or through the rhythm (or tions on human experience and interaction – tragic, both), and that’s the case with the exuberant “The Race comic, glorious – whether on the very personal scale or Runs Me” – its “breathing, running and breathing” refrain across history and populations. He considers Ireland’s evoking Irish athletes Sonia O’Sullivan and Eamonn financial devastation (“Dignity and Backbone”), the pos- Coughlan – and “The Bike,” a sequel of sorts to one of sibility of Irish-Anglo reconciliation (“A Seed Was Sown,” his most popular songs, “The Acoustic Motorbike,” on inspired by Queen Elizabeth’s visit to Ireland) and the the joys and Zen of cycling. 2011 Japanese earthquake-tsunami (“Gaman”), as well The aforementioned exception to these new composi- as the fragility of wild youth (“Your Little Wings”) and tions is another Bloom classic, “You Couldn’t Have Come the utter simplicity of love (“No Big Deal”). All delivered at a Better Time,” energized by the interpolation of the in that distinctive voice, sometimes as a song, sometimes traditional “Kesh Jig” with a session’s worth of guest as an invocation, and always with a heartening sincerity. musicians. But no complaints here about a reprise of The content of the songs would be impressive enough one of the most unabashedly optimistic love songs you’ll on its own, but a good part of the appeal of “This New ever hear, an entreaty to throw off doubts and follow Morning” is the form – specifically, the helping hands the heart. When it comes to Luka Bloom, don’t resist, (and voices) of an impres- just enjoy the ride. sive supporting cast of musicians and especially  vocals that includes Donal Lunny, Rita Connolly,  Glen (“Once”) Hansard, Steve Cooney, Mairtin  O’Connor and Iarla Ó  Lionaird. Their various contributions provide an EIRE  affirmation for or an under-  scoring of Bloom’s words,  to great effect in particular pub on “Heart Man,” arguably  the album’s high point –  literally: It’s an archetypal soaring-spirit Bloom com- 795 Adams St. • Dorchester  position, a tribute to his  friend Shane O’Neill, the  late philanthropist and ac- “President’s Choice”  tivist, with backing vocals  of Hansard and Samuel Ar-  nold (along with Cooney’s  guitar and O’Connor’s ac- Serving Lunch & Dinner cordion) helping make the  song an elegy of triumph  rather than loss. Every day, “Gaman” (which is Japa-  nese for “endure the un-  endurable”), meanwhile, 7 days a week  Page 16 January 2013 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com Traveling People On the drawing board: Kylemore Abbey as ‘a new icon’

By Judy Enright renovation and upgrading Special to the BIR of the castle building to Since before 2010, when open more rooms to the the Benedictine nuns public. Eventually, Sister closed their highly re- Maire said, the hope is to garded school for girls refurbish and open the at Kylemore Abbey in entire castle to showcase Connemara, the most fre- life in the late 1800s and to quent question in the area have it declared a heritage has been: “What next?” house. Would the picturesque Work has already begun castle, perched on a rise to convert the former gym above Pollacappul Lake, into a community chapel, become a tourist hotel? which Sister Maire ex- Would the property be pects will be ready by next transformed into a Celtic summer. When finished, Magic Kingdom? Could there will be enough space developers build a casino for about 100 visitors to or conference center in join the nuns in prayer peaceful Connemara? and reflection. Nuns and The answer has come former students used with the unveiling of an the castle’s ballroom as ambitious proposal that a chapel but it was not maintains the focus of open to visitors. That the Benedictine order former chapel will become but also enhances and an auditorium for a new upgrades the property. education center. An eight-member board An education center – The Kylemore Abbey The boarding school Trust, a registered char- behind the castle will be ity – has been established extensively refurbished to develop and guide the to create an education proposal to completion. center with ensuite bed- Early on an October morning, Kylemore Abbey is reflected in the still waters of Pollacappul Lake. Assisting them will be rooms, classrooms and professional advisors, community rooms for 25 of the Atlantic for the including accounting and students and teachers. $9.2-million project and architectural firms, proj- Since the school closed, the Trust is seeking major ect engineers, and a devel- the nuns at Kylemore contributions here to lay opment company, Venture have been working on a the foundation and get the Advancement Ltd. new educational mission, project moving. “A new icon” “relevant for the needs of For more information or During an interview at today while maintaining to inquire about making a Kylemore last fall, Sister the Benedictine tradition pledge or major donation, Maire Hickey, OSB, Ab- and ethos.” The education contact Mary Reed at 914- bess for the past five years, center, Sister Maire said, 420-3517 or e-mail her at talked about the plans and “will be a place where good [email protected]. said, “Iconic Kylemore living is appreciated and Mary and her campaign will develop into a new where visitors can learn committee hope they can icon. Until now it has been what makes life good.” raise at least $1.1 mil- Also included in the lion in New York City plans is construction of a and environs. They will new purpose-built mon- welcome Sister Maire astery, separate from the as the featured speaker castle, that will include at a kickoff event in the a monastic church and American Irish Historical guesthouse for visitors. Society in New York City “We have always shared on Jan. 15. For more infor- our building with the mation about that event, It looks like tea is ready to be served in the library at Kylemore Abbey in school and guests,” Sister call Mary Reed. Connemara, Co. Galway. Judy Enright photos Maire said. “For years, The Abbess will also be we have been thinking the featured speaker on the many attributes of word of mouth. There is no for the 2013 summer about and hoping to build Jan. 9 at a Washington, Kylemore Abbey, which advertising, Sister Maire season, operating a daily a proper monastery on DC, breakfast meeting to is truly the jewel of the said. “They come to experi- service from Philadelphia. the grounds. Then we honor women of Ireland. west. The property has a ence life here or work for • D u r i n g t h e could open more rooms The event will be held in fascinating history as well us on a volunteer basis.” summer,United will op- for guests.” the Hay-Adams Hotel. See as many modern additions She added that a num- erate a new service from Funding will also enable the Irish American Part- – such as the creation of ber of groups also come Chicago to Shannon five continued maintenance of nership website (irishap. a Children’s Play Trail, for retreats, conferences days a week and will also This delicate figure is the magnificent Victorian org) for details. Proceeds in collaboration with the or workshops. Plans are restore direct service carved into a marble walled garden – a high- will benefit Kylemore. furniture college (GMIT) already in place for a from the US Midwest to fireplace in Kylemore light for the more than Locally, tax-deductible in nearby Letterfrack, and group from Maryland Shannon. Abbey’s library. 250,000 tourists who visit donations may be ad- the restoration of Victo- (students and staff) to visit • Delta will fly New annually. dressed to Mary McAleer rian gardens, greenhouses Kylemore next summer York JFK-Shannon daily a tourist attraction and a In a glossy brochure, at the Irish American and the teahouse. for a 12-day educational throughout the peak sum- school with a community printed for fundraising, Partnership, 33 Broad St., “Perfect destination” experience in Ireland for mer season. of nuns in the background. the Abbess writes, “The Boston, 02109. Please note I have visited, taken which they will receive • American will intro- We want it to be a Bene- Kylemore Abbey Trust that the donation is for guests, and written about course credits. Classes duce a daily service from dictine monastery that is has taken on the respon- the Kylemore Abbey Capi- Kylemore Abbey many will include Irish history New York JFK to Dublin, the center of activities of sibility of harnessing the tal Campaign. You may times over the years be- and culture and there will starting in June. And various kinds, and open to very substantial financial call the Irish American cause it is a perfect tourist be workshops with local because Aer Lingus has visitors of many kinds. We resources and technical Partnership at 617-723- and travel destination. people in music, poetry increased its fleet from want it all to have a cer- skills required to deliver 2707 or 800-722-3893 for You can see something and more. six to seven planes, there tain kind of ethos and on our plans and initia- more details or visit their different every time you “Our vision is that the will be an increase in those focus,” she said. “We see tives…” website. go. Stop by the neo-Gothic Kylemore of the future flights during the summer this as the continuation of Price tag: $9.2 million Most visitors to the chapel, the Mausoleum, will be a monastery and season too. our educational mission.” Funds are currently West of Ireland have the garden and teahouse, spiritual place of prayer, • Two daily flights will She described extensive being raised on both sides stopped to experience the castle itself with the study and education and a operate between Bos- history of the property wonderful tourist facility ton-Dublin between late and Mitchell Henry, a as well,” Sister Maire said. March and mid-June. Manchester doctor who TRAVEL PLANS • Orlando-Dublin ser- Phillips Candy House was modern beyond his We are always happy vice will operate twice fine chocolates since 1925 time, and built the castle to hear that US and Irish daily from the end of for his wife. You can visit airlines have increased March to mid-June and one or more attractions on flights to and from Ire- increase to three flights the property, enjoy a hot, land and specifically from a week for the summer. tasty meal in the teahouse Shannon, which so hand- • Dublin-Chicago is - adjacent to the gardens - ily services the wonderful, increasing from a daily or in the cafeteria or stop wild West. The expanded service to 11 flights per by the gift shop, one of the service announced for week. best in Ireland. Dublin and Shannon • The Dublin-JFK route There are also opportu- means almost 270,000 will operate twice daily nities to spend time living more seats between Ire- and there will also be daily with the community at Ky- land and the USA next departures from Shannon lemore in contemplation summer, a 20 percent to JFK and Logan. or volunteering. Several increase over 2012. HAPPY 2013 dozen women have come Recently, we heard that: Welcome to a new year in the past three or four • US Airways will re- and all the exciting adven- years because they heard turn to Shannon (flights tures that come with it. about the opportunity by last landed there in 2009) Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com January 2013 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 17 The Irish Language by Philip Mac AnGhabhann Celtic Cross Bliana Maith Ur! “Happy New Year” – actually, “Year Good New” in Irish. Words Last month we looked at some of the uses of the preposition le and its combinations with the sub- The Irish ject pronouns. These “prepositional pronouns” play a major role in Irish. These make up many crosswords are Irish idioms, things which superficially make little sense but are indeed meaningful to native speak- a service of an ers. English has many idioms such as “catch a old” or “have a cold”—a “cold” is a disease and you can Ireland-based neither “catch” it or “have” it. Irish, for example will say, “There is a cold on+me” – Tá slaghdán orm. website which

Some of the idioms we studied last month with le provides Irish were the comparative, in the structure Tá Noun chomh Adjective le Noun such as Tá Nóra chomh Family Coats of álainn le Maire – “Nora is as beautiful as Mary.” Arms by email. Other idioms last month with forms of le or prepositional pronouns of le included: You are invited

Cé bhí leat? “Who was with+you?” to visit Bhí Maire liom. “Mary was with+me. Bhuail mé le Seán. “I met Sean” or “I ran www. bigwood. into Sean.” Is maith liom caifé. “I like coffee” Literally “Is com/heraldry good with+me coffee”) Ollamh le … “Professor of …”

To these we can now add …

D’imigh lei. “He went away” ©-bigwood.com Imigh leat! “Go away!” IRELAND IN CROSSWORDS Is cuma liom faoi. “I don’t care about it.” ACROSS 5. Churchman dismantles relic after a century. (6) Chuaigh sé le … “He began …” or 1. Northern leader mixed up with fine sin in organisa- 6. Unruly child returns from the beginning of 19 “He got involved with … tion founded by Arthur Griffith. (4,4) down. (4) 5. A dresser of hair in small Down linen town with an 7. Ill herds recover in uplands of County Kildare north How do you say, 1.) “Children, go away!” 2.) “They old distillery near Newtownards. (5) west of Kildare town. (3,5) got involved with the police.” 3.) “The Professor of 8. “ —— and the Man.” 1898 play by Shaw. (4) 13. Irish politician in Glenade put you down. (6) English doesn’t like tea.” 4.) “Who is with her?” 9. Was her entanglement with the ship’s rope? (6) 14. Ring 49 for the fuel. (3) 5.) “I like coffee, thank you.” 6.) “They went away.” 10. “A man cannot be — careful in the choice of his 15. Bar ale spilled; it’s fit for tillage. (6) (Answers below) enemies.” Wilde. (3) 16. G.A.T.T. hall demolished in large Dublin southern 11. Information Technology comes to the small church, suburb with a pyramidical shopping centre. (8) Now let us look back at “a cold”, slaghdán / causing irritation. (4) 18. Born in Ballylehane early. (3) SLAH-dahn/ as in the sentence Tá slaghdán orm, 12. Troubled dynamic motion includes whirling water. 19. Bart gets mixed up with R.T.E. in Kerry town with ”I have a cold.” (4) a car ferry to the Limerick side of the Shannon. (7) 14. Torch is enough when he has his head under the 22. Lax win over Kerry village, with a ruined castle, This idiom is made with ar, “on”, as in the sen- sand. (7) once the seat of the Earls of Kerry, near Listowel. (6) tence Tá arán agus im ar an mbord – “There is 15. “What’s — the world to a man when his wife is a 23. Joseph Dzhugashvili (1879-1953) in last mixup. (6) bread and butter on the table.” widow?” Old Irish Proverb. (3) 24. N.Y. brat comes over to West Cork town across the 16. Hurtles around in Tipperary town where Strongbow bay from Glengarriff, with Whiddy Island nearby. (6) The combinations of ar and the personal pro- was defeated by O’Connor and O’Brien in 1174. (7) 25. Little Benjamin comes to church to find a seat for nouns – the Prepositional Pronouns – in most 17. If Anne’s about recall those who organised the the magistrates. (5) cases take a form beginning with o-. The excep- abortive Irish rising of 1867. (7) 27. “Better knowledge of —— than —— without knowl- tions are “on him” which changes spelling but not 20. Put down because one is not in church? (3) edge.” Old Irish Proverb (4) -something to live up to! (4) pronunciation and “on her” which, although spelled 21. See clan about being able to purify. (7) with a ui- is still pronounced as /o/. Notice that in 25. Little Elizabeth takes article to Greek character. (4) CROSSWORD SOLUTION ON PAGE 14 English we have to change the pronouns from “I” 26. Getting on in Kimmage demesne. (4) to “me”, etc. Also recall that there must be a slight 28. Public cutback, but working to a private agenda if vowel sound inserted between –r-- and –m in orm. one has it to grind. (3) 29. Run ale all over in a virtual sense. (6) orm /OR-uhm/ “on me” 30. Make a home in Clones town. (4) Irish Sayings orainn /OR-uhn/ “on us” 31. Wall to be demolished in Waterford town on the “You are not a fully fledged sailor unless you have ort /ort/ “on you” Glenaboy where John Hogan the sculptor was born. (6) sailed under full sail,” “and you have not built a wall oraibh /OR-ee/ “on you-all” 32. Heal tiny troubles in Wicklow village in the valley unless you have rounded a corner.” air /er/ “on him” of the Derry River near Shillelagh. (8) “There is no strength without unity.” orthu /OR-uhb/ “on them” “You must live with a person to know a person. If you uirthi /OR-uh/ “on her” DOWN want to know me come and live with me.” 1. Les, any other way to Wicklow, Carlow and Wexford “Praise the young and they will blossom” Some idioms that use ar include … river that joins the Clody in Bunclody? (6) “The raggy colt often made a powerful horse.” 2. “Do you know what a pessimist is? A man who thinks “Age is honorable and youth is noble.” Tá slaghdán ar. /SLAH-dahn/ that everybody is as —— as himself, and hates them “Youth does not mind where it sets its foot.” “To have (a) cold.” for it. “ Shaw. (5) “Both your friend and your enemy think you will Tá ocras ar. /OH-kruhs/ 3. Sound returns from the book and T.V. film by Maeve never die.” “To be hungry” Binchy, filmed in Dunmore East. (6) “The well fed does not understand the lean.” Tá tart ar. /tart/ 4. Row pent up in picturesque Mayo village on Clew If you have a ship and a cargo, you’ll get the right wind. “To be thirsty” Bay under the mountains. (7) A good start is half the work. Tá deifir ar. /JAY-fuhr/ “To be in a hurry” Tá moill ar. /mail/ ADVERTISEMENT “To delay, not to hurry” Tá fearg ar. /FER-uhg/ “To be angry” Photography by The names of some more common diseases are casacht /KAH-sahk/ “cough” as in Casacht a bheidh ort, “You have a cough” , and “mea- sles” bruitíneach / BRU-cheen-yahk/ in Bhí Image Photo Service bruitíneach orm, “I had (the) measles.” Although the technical word for “influenza” is ulpóg /OOL- pohk/ it is more common to say, Tá an fliú orm. • Weddings • Anniversaries “I have the ‘flu.”

How do you say the following: 7.) “She had the • Banquets • Portraits ‘flu.” 8.) “Is he hungry?” 9.) “She was very angry.” 10.) “Are you thirsty?” 11.) “They are in a hurry • Reunions today.” 12.) “Did you have measles?” • Groups • Families Answers: 1.) A leaní, imigh libh! 2.) Chaigh siad le na gardaí. 3.) Ní maith le Ollamh le • Special Occasions Béarla tae. 4.) Cé atá léi? 5.) Is maith liom caifé, go raibh maith agat. 6.) D’imigh leo. 7.) Bhí an fliú uirthi. 8.) An bhfuil ocras air? 9.) Bhí go fearg uirthi. 10.) An bhfuil tart (617) 291-6609 ort? 11. Tá deifer orthu inniu. 12.) An raibh bruitíneach ort? The official photographers of the Boston Irish Reporter Page 18 January 2013 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com BRETT’S BOSTON By Harry Brett Exclusive photos of Boston Irish people & events

The JFK Library in Dorchester hosted a forum on December 9 in observance of the 100th an- niversary of the birth of late House Speaker Tip O’Neill. Panelists included former ABC newsman Charlie Gibson, Steve Roberts of the New York Times and his wife, NPR reporter Cokie Roberts, Chris Matthews and Mike Barnicle of MSNBC and Al Hunt of Bloomberg News. Christoper “Kip” 1. O’Neill, a Washington attorney, represented the family in closing remarks at the forum.

1.) Sen Paul Kirk; 2.) Hope Zabar, Swampscott; Tom O’Neill III; 3.) Mayor James and Marie Gill, Buncrana, Ireland; 4.) Dick Flavin, Boston; Al Hunt, Bloomberg News; Joanna Datillo, Boston; 5.) Jim and Francine Gannon; Nick Ordway, Christi Gannon all of the North End; 6.) Kip O’Neill (Tip’s son); Counsellor Frank McBrearty, Mayor of Donegal, Ireland; 7.) Andrew Scibelli, Springfield; Linda Melcomian, former assistant council to Tip O’Neill; 8.) Mike Barnicle; Rose- mary O’Neill, Washington, DC; 9.) Michael O’Neill, Franklin; Ken Lonergan, West End; Thomas O’Neill, III, Shrewsbury; 10.) Pam Frechette and Larry Moulter, Milton; 11.) Doug and Lisa O’Neill, Millis; 12.) Kevin Daly, New Haven, CT; Charles Daly, Chatham; Tracie Shea, Jamestown, RI; 13.) John McGee, Buncrana, Ireland; Dick Flavin; Tom Mulvoy. 2. 3.

4. 5.

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12. 13. Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com January 2013 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 19 They helped make the peace in Northern Ireland Following is the last in a series of ar- was ordained as a Presbyterian minister The notion of Gerry Adams as a major process. ticles on individuals who had an impact in 1946, and soon after began a career as figure in Northern Ireland governance In 1999, he and Gerry Adams were on civic life in Ireland in the 20th century. a prominent and outspoken, even noto- and prospects for peace took on a height- elected to a cabinet positions within the rious, Northern Ireland activist. Never ened sense in 1994 when the Clinton new power- sharing government, and By Stephen M. Pingel hesitant to air his strong anti- Sinn Fein administration, aware of the serious today McGuinness is the deputy First Special to the BIR sentiment, Paisley bore considerable peace efforts taking place, gave the Sinn Minister of Northern Ireland. responsibility for his role in riling up Fein leader a visa to enter the United George Mitchell With its effects highly positive to date, both IRA and Unionist terrorist groups States, something it had denied him A Waterville, Maine, native, onetime the Good Friday Agreement of 1998 as the end of the century neared. earlier because of his ties to the IRA. federal judge and majority leader in the stands as a landmark in the long history Then something happened, a remark- Gerry Adams was a serious player US Senate, George Mitchell was a sur- of the island of Ireland where sectional able conversion of sorts for Paisley whose in the North, to be sure, and he has prising central figure in Northern Irish strife and regional rear-guard actions name and face became associated with remained one ever since. politics if you ignore against incursions of British forces had the cause of making a truly serious peace Tony Blair the role that United been the order of the day for centuries. in the North. Today, he and his party Edinburgh-born States politics played Looking back, the agreement was made associates are part of a power-sharing Tony Blair and his in the peace process. possible by a convenient confluence of government with his long-time nemeses, Labour Party would In 1995, after he compromise: far-seeing men and women Gerry Adams and Martin McGuinness prove to be especially had retired from the of capable abilities were in positions of and the Sinn Fein Party, that continues instrumental in the Senate, President Bill power (and out of power, in some cases), to work at making the peace process a making of the peace Clinton asked him to and there was a palpable eagerness for reality. in Northern Ireland. be his special envoy to peace as the only option across the lines Gerry Adams Considered one of Northern Ireland as of division, especially in the North. Largely responsible for having direct most popular British talk of a serious steps toward peace were In the years leading up to 1998, the contact with the IRA throughout the prime ministers, he in the air, and soon enough Mitchell, an echoes of violent IRA attacks had spread Good Friday Agree- represented the modern swing to peace, engaging man with a warm personality, to English soil, with several prominent ment process, Gerry away from Thatcher’s staunch conserva- was sitting down with all sides in a suc- bombings in London. And in Northern Adams was instru- tism. Merely two weeks into his tenure, cessful effort to keep things moving in a Ireland, fear of Royal Ulster Constabu- mental in negotia- he visited Northern Ireland, and soon positive direction toward the agreement lary (RUC) collusion with loyalist Prot- tions that resulted in thereafter, in 1997, gave British negotia- in 1998. estant terrorist groups made life uneasy the disarming of the tors the go-ahead for making reasonable Conclusion for all. By most accountings, some 3,500 IRA and the dissolu- formal concessions as part of the peace This personal accounting of certain men and women lost their lives during tion of the RUC and process. Gerry Adams and Tony Blair, personalities involved in the making of the years of The Troubles. the establishment of theretofore a most unlikely pairing, met the Good Friday Agreement in Northern Onto the national stage stepped those the Police Service of twice that year to discuss the upcoming Ireland is hardly inclusive. In fact, it who could, by virtue of personality, Northern Ireland (PSNI) as a bipartisan- agreement process and the possible steps leaves out, among many others, perhaps competence, and personal courage, do member force clearly more committed to and concessions that might be needed to the most prominent makers of the peace, something about the stalemate, among keeping the peace than its predecessor make any talks successful. John Hume and David Trimble, who were them: agency. Martin McGuinness awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for what Ian Paisley Born in West Belfast in 1948, Adams Born in Derry, Northern Ireland, in they did to help put an end the continual He was perhaps the most controver- was an activist from his earliest days 1950, Martin McGuinness would become strife in their homeland. sial party in the Good Friday Agree- and as he years went by, he moved into best known for his On May 23, 1998, the roots of peace ment process. In the and up the ranks of the Provisional role as chief nego- were sunk into the Irish soil as the Good early 1990s, the Rev. IRA and Sinn Fein. Although publicly tiator for Sinn Fein Friday Agreement was approved by vot- Ian Paisley and his seen as a fighter with IRA and Sinn in the Good Friday ers across the entire island of Ireland Democratic Union- Fein credentials who was taking on the Agreement talks in to take effect on Dec. 2, 1999. For all ist Party (DUP) establishment in the North during the 1998. Although long that, there are those who resent what were talking pub- 1980s and 1990s, privately Adams was associated in the has happened, and the fight for peace licly about the need trying to find ways to establish a lasting public mind with the in Ireland goes on and on. for an agreement to peace despite the fact that that was an IRA and its violent Stephen M. Pingel is a student at the curb the violence, but unlikely prospect with British Prime activities dating to University of Massachusetts at Lowell the voluble Paisley’s Minister Margaret Thatcher in power, the late 1960s and running into the where he is specializing in the socio- ringing anti-Catholic which she was until 1990. So it was a 1990s, McGuinness nonetheless was a economic history of modern conflicts as rhetoric made any chance of progress waiting game: When she was gone, real major power player in the peacemaking well as 20th-century Irish history. almost laughable. Born in 1926, Paisley negotiations could begin.

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Wintry scene at Mayo’s Belleek Woods. Photo by Grainne Armstrong/Mayo.ie Kickoff time for ‘Gathering Ireland 2013’ (Continued from page 1) Over 70 million people worldwide claim Irish ancestry. The Gathering Ireland 2013 provides an opportunity to current residents to reach out to those who have moved away, their relatives, friends and descendants, and invite them home. Dubbed “The People’s Party,” the event was set to kick off in spectacular style at the New Year’s Eve Festival in Dublin. There are two main types of events: • Gatherings – These are being hosted by the people of Ireland. A gathering can be as little as an invitation to an old school friend to visit Ireland in 2013, or the local GAA club asking a Boston GAA team to come over for a match. • Festivals and events – The celebration will bring together hundreds of festivals and events throughout Ireland that celebrate the best in Irish music, art, literature, dance, culture, heritage, sport, film and food. The Gathering Ireland’s first sponsorship was The Emerald Isle Classic, the football game between Notre Dame and Navy played in Dublin’s Aviva last September. Typical of the efforts being developed in Ireland is the recently released 2013 calendar being sold by the County of Mayo on Ireland’s West Coast. The website mayo.ie sponsored a competition for photos from around the Mayo. The winning images and a selection of other photos were compiled into a 2013 calendar, along with listings of some of the county’s Gathering 2013 events and snippets of information on historical dates of significance to those with a Mayo connection. The calendars are available for sale online at mayobooks.ie. Tourism Ireland suggests, “Whether visiting Ireland is on your bucket list or you’ve been before and always wanted to return, why not make 2013 your year to visit? Maybe you have an Irish name or relative? Or you enjoy taking part in an Irish hobby? Maybe you’ve studied or worked in Ireland or maybe you simply love the music or literature? 2013 is the perfect year to come to Ireland and ex- perience the céad míle fáilte (one hundred thousand welcomes) that the Irish are famous for. “Take a look at TheGatheringIreland.com and see if any gatherings or festivals match your inter- ests. Like soul music? Time your visit to coincide with Dublin City Soul Festival. Love running? Why not take part in the Great Ireland Run? It’s totally up to you! Families and clans are meeting all over the coun- try and Ireland’s favorite festivals have developed exciting new programs to help visitors truly be part of it. If you’re planning an event for 2013, plan on having it in Ireland.