March 2018 Boston’s hometown VOL. 29 #3 journal of Irish culture. $2.00 Worldwide at All contents copyright © 2018 bostonirish.com Boston Neighborhood News, Inc. March 17: thoughts of a patron saint, Sinn Fein milestones for Boston’s Irish heritage duo has By Peter F. Stevens a tough BIR Staff As St. Patrick’s Day 2018 nears, the “wear- challenge ing of the green” will hold sway in Boston and By Joe Leary environs. Still, amid all Special to the BIR the genuine or faux pride Political parties fre- on display in pubs, along quently undergo changes parades, and as part of in their leadership, but all other manner of rev- rarely do they completely elry, it’s a sure bet that reverse the face of their a great many celebrants public image. With Mar- are unaware that March tin McGuinness’s death 17 teems with uniquely and ’s res- Boston milestones. ignation as leader of Sinn Fein in Ireland, the The Big Parade: party is embarking on a Landmark Tradition dramatically fresh course “The Parade.” In Bos- in the midst of dangerous ton, the phrase means times. one thing – South Boston’s The party’s new lead- annual St. Patrick’s Day ers, two young women in event. The 2018 march their 40s, will be met in marks the event’s latest the North by the aging fol- incarnation in a tradition lowers of Ian Paisley, and that began in 1901. in the South by competi- The milestone notwith- tors who only remember standing, the procession the violent years, not the that so many enjoy today times of successful peace did not arrive easily for initiatives. This will be the Boston Irish, who long a time of difficulty for had to battle prejudice be- them both as they move fore they could have their to solidify their positions celebration. Have their in the minds of their con- parade, Boston’s Irish stituents while also deal- would, and proudly so. ing with serious major As Irish-Catholic issues facing the island. The Good Friday peace immigrants landed in Marching along Broadway in 2016. Chris Lovett photo Boston in ever-increasing plan, agreed to in 1998 numbers in the 1840s and Jameson’s. No one build- Atlantic. It was the 18th by popular vote in both staked their claim to new ing, however, would long Lynch, Flaherty to ‘pinch-hit’ as Breakfast hosts for a good reason: The 17th the North and South, is lives in America, they serve to hold the growing US Congressman Stephen Lynch and Boston City had fallen on Sunday and under attack; a return to were soon thumbing their numbers of local Irish Councillor At-Large Michael Flaherty will share host- organizers were subject to complete British control noses at Yankee antipathy longing to celebrate the ing duties at this year’s St. Patrick’s Day Breakfast in Boston’s strict Blue Laws. of the North looms a real to any commemorations of day in a bigger way. South Boston. The political roast — set for Sun., March So, on Monday, the proces- possibility, and Brexit of- St. Patrick’s Day. One of There was only one 18 before the South Boston parade— will be staged sion commenced with the fers a severe threat to all the early manifestations way, Boston Irish leaders at Ironworkers Local 7 Union Hall, where Lynch, a rattle of drums, the cries people, North and South. of the local Irish love for decided, to include not just of pipes, and the pounding Forty-seven-year of former ironworker before taking on elected office, has Mary Lou McDonald, their “old sod’s” patron Irish men, but also women previously hosted the festivities. More, page 3. notes of brass bands. saint was the Shamrock and children, in a celebra- Cheering throngs greet- representing her district Society, a social club tion of St. Patrick. Their the history-making “Big along and above South ed the waves of march- in in the Irish that gathered on March solution was a parade. Parade” in 1901. Boston’s streets. Banners ers as they streamed parliament, was elected 17 to defiantly toast the The unofficial St. Patrick’s On March 18, 1901 awash with glittering along Southie’s streets, (Continued on page 6) saint and “sing the old Day marches that wound – yes, March 18 – the shamrocks, harps, and wound across the bridge, songs,” the revelers’ voices through every Irish ward blare of brass bands and images of the patron saint and surged into down- pealing from Dooley’s, in the 1870s, 1880s, and pipers and the stomps himself nodded in the town Boston to the ear- the Mansion House, and 1890s set the stage for of marchers’ feet pealed gusts racing in from the (Continued on page 8) ‘Open the Door for Three’ will strut their music at St. Patrick’s Day Celtic Sojourn (March 15-17) By Sean Smith Patrick’s Day Celtic So- up is Brenda Castles, a Brian O’Donovan is the Open the Door for Three Special to the BIR journ” production, which concertina player from creator, producer, and comprises Maine-based Open the Door for takes place March 15-17 County Meath; Scottish host of “A St. Patrick’s Day spouses Kieran O’Hare Three, a trio of Irish musi- with shows at The Cabot harpist/keyboardist/vo- Celtic Sojourn,” which fol- (uilleann pipes, flute, cians whose penchant for Theatre in Beverly, the calist Maeve Gilchrist; lows the spirit and format whistle) and Liz Knowles scholarship complements Zeiterion Performing Arts and vocalist/guitarist of his long-running radio (fiddle) and Dublin-born St. Patrick’s statue over- their talents for arrange- Center in New Bedford, Keith Murphy, who serves show, as does his an- Pat Broaders (bouzouki, looks Clew Bay from ment and performance, and Sanders Theatre at as music director for the nual “A Christmas Celtic vocals), now a Chicago Croagh Patrick in Co. will be a featured act in Harvard University. show. Sojourn” production in resident, all of whom have Mayo. Judy Enright sur- the 13th annual “A St. Also in this year’s line- WGBH-FM broadcaster December. (Continued on page 16) veys the scene, Page 25.

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Find out more at Ireland.com bostonirish.com March 2018 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 3 James Brett is Eire Society’s pick for its 2018 Gold Medal The Éire Society of Bos- the award, and in 2016, ton has chosen Jim Brett, the medal was presented a Dorchester native who to Mary P. McAleese, is president and CEO of the eighth president of the New England Council, Ireland. to receive its Gold Medal “It is fitting that Jim award for 2018. The award Brett is being honored will be presented at a din- with the Gold Medal ner and ceremony on Sat- Award from The Éire urday evening, April 7, Society of Boston, given at 6 p.m. at the Seaport his tireless work over Boston Hotel. many decades on behalf of vulnerable members Congressman Stephen F. Lynch (center) is Councillor Michael Flaherty with Sen. Linda Dorcena of our community,” said shown during the 2016 St. Patrick’s Day Break- Forry at the 2014 breakfast in South Boston. Fionnuala Quinlan, Con- fast in South Boston. Don West photo Chris Lovett photo sul General of Ireland in Boston. Among his many inter- ests and achievements, Lynch, Flaherty to take charge of breakfast Brett is a dedicated ad- By Jennifer Smith on behalf of the South Boston com- his tenure in Congress. vocate for the physically Reporter Staff munity.” The senator for the First Suffolk and mentally challenged. The much-debated question of Sen. Dorcena Forry— who is the District traditionally takes on host- He served as the chair- who would take over the St. Patrick’s wife of Reporter owner and editor ing duties. Forry’s office staff has man of the President’s Day Breakfast, the South Boston Bill Forry— vacated her seat at the been filling the gaps while interim Committee for People with tradition helmed for the past few end of January to take a post at hosts were being considered. Intellectual Disabilities years by former state Sen. Linda Suffolk Construction. Her departure Dorcena Forry, daughter of James Brett stunned many political observers Haitian-American immigrants, was 2018 Honoree and continues to serve Dorcena Forry, now has a two-fold as a member. In 2016, answer. US Congressman Stephen and left a special election to replace the first woman of color to host the The Gold Medal is Congress appointed him Lynch and City Councillor At-Large her and the question of breakfast breakfast, starting in 2014 after awarded annually to a to the National Council Michael Flaherty will share hosting hosting up in the air. winning a 2013 special election to person or persons who on Disability. He is also duties this year. A political staple since the 1930s, succeed former Sen. Jack Hart. exemplify the best of Irish chairman of the Gov- Slated for Sunday, March 18, the breakfast kicks off St. Patrick’s “We’re happy that the tradition of culture and ideals. It is ernor’s Commission on the breakfast will return to the Day festivities in South Boston and the breakfast is being upheld this presented to those who Intellectual Disability and Ironworkers Local 7 Union Hall, precedes the holiday parade through year and will continue,” said Patrick have made significant serves as the chairperson where Lynch, a former ironworker Southie. It is a veritable “who’s who” O’Brien, the legislative and policy contributions in their field of the Massachusetts Dis- before taking on elected office, has of Massachusetts politics, drawing director in for the First Suffolk of- of expertise that benefit abled Persons Protection previously hosted the festivities. senators and governors alike to offer fice. “We will continue to work with society. Commission. “The St. Patrick’s Day Breakfast chuckle- and groan-inducing takes the hosts this year to ensure that a The honoree, a business For more information has become a neighborhood tradi- on the topics of the day, in between smooth transition of the breakfast leader, legislator, and on the dinner and award tion, and with the unanticipated res- the familiar Irish ballad. in such a quick time takes place.” lifelong advocate for pub- ceremony, contact event ignation of Senator Linda Dorcena Lynch served as the breakfast Dorcena Forry’s former staff will lic policy issues, will join chair William J. Smith by Forry, Councilor Mike Flaherty host from 1996 until 2001, when coordinate with Lynch and Fla- the list of distinguished email at events@eireso- and I have agreed to pinch hit he left the state senate when he herty’s offices to hand over any nec- Gold Medal recipients. ciety.org or call Cornelia and co-host this year’s breakfast,” was elected to US House of Rep- essary materials on the breakfast. In 2017, the novelist, Cassidy Koutoujian at Lynch said in a statement. “Senator resentatives. He has maintained Jennifer Smith is the news editor playwright and journal- 781- 899-3140. Dorcena Forry did a terrific job as a high-profile role as a guest and of the Dorchester Reporter. ist Colm Tóibín received host, and I thank her for her work roaster at the breakfast throughout Calendar of Events for March Friday, March 2: The Irish Cultural Centre in • New England Irish Harp Orchestra & Friends will Marriott Hotel in Quincy. The benefit will feature set Canton will present a short play about The Legend present a St. Patrick’s Day concert at 7:30 p.m. at the dancing and local music from the Kenny Academy of of St. Brigid’s Cloak at 6:30 p.m. Children of all ages Canadian-American Hall in Watertown. The concert Irish Dance, Comhaltas Ceoloiri Eireann, Erin’s Melody, are invited to participate in the production. Calling all will be followed by a Ceili. Tickets are $12 advance and Noel Henry’s Irish Showband. This year’s honorees actors, musicians, artists, and singers to help put the and $15 at the door. More information at neiho.org. include Quincy Mayor Thomas P. Koch and Christine A. show together. To sign up, email mdooher@irishculture. • The Charitable Irish Society will host their 281st Koch,Rev. Daniel J. Finn Paul, and Patricia Mikus. The org or call 781-821-8291. St. Patrick’s Day Anniversary Dinner at 6 p.m. at the event will also feature a silent auction, refreshments and March 2-3: Bualadh Boston 2018, an Irish Literary Seaport Hotel. This year’s dinner will feature guest light sandwiches, and a cash bar. $20 suggested dona- Festival, will take place Friday and Saturday at the speaker Hon. Michael John Ring, T.D., Irish Minister tion. Register online at nphusa.org/events/irishhearts. Back Bay Harvard Club. Presented by the Irish Writ- for Rural and Community Development. The dinner ers Centre, Poetry Ireland, and the Consulate General will also feature music and entertainment by Laurel of Ireland, the festival includes three events featuring Martin, Mark Roberts, Kathleen Guilday, and The some of the finest contemporary Irish writers and poets, Boston College Heightsmen. Cocktail reception at 6 The Parades Lineup scheduled for Friday at 5 p.m., Saturday at 3 p.m., and p.m., dinner at 7. Black tie optional. RSVP online by Saturday at 5 p.m. All events will take place at the March 13th at charitableirishsociety.org. Harvard Club in the Back Bay. Tickets are free but • Murphy’s Boxing presents St. Patrick’s Day Clash March 2018 those interested in attending are encouraged to book 3, an event that will include a series of boxing bouts Sunday, the 18th at 1 p.m. – Boston’s St. Patrick’s them online at eventbrite.com. and a special acoustic set from the Dropkick Murphys. Day Parade will kick off from Broadway Station in Monday, March 12: USA Boxing will kick off its House of Blues. Doors open at 8. Featuring WBC Sil- South Boston. Check out southbostonparade.org for USA vs IRL Northeast Boxing Tour with an event at ver International Champion Danny O’Connor (29-3). information regarding the history of the parade, the 7 p.m. at Royale Entertainment Complex in Boston’s Tickets and more information at murphysboxing.com. route, parking restrictions, and how to get there. Theater District. The showdown will feature 12 bouts March 17-18: The Burren Pub in Somerville’s Davis Saturday, the 10th at 11 a.m. – Cape Cod-Yar- featuring some of the best amateur boxers from the Square will host a series of St. Patrick’s Day Spec- mouth. Parade starts at Long Pond Drive and Route United States and Ireland. General Admission $20, tacular Variety Shows. Six performances Saturday at 28 in South Yarmouth. Continue west on Route 28, ringside $35. More information at usaboxing.com. 9 a.m., 11 a.m., 1 p.m., 3 p.m., 5 p.m., and 7 p.m., and over the Parker’s River Bridge, ending at Route 28 and Tuesday, March 13: Dublin Irish Dance will perform one performance Sunday at noon. The show features Higgins Crowell Road/Berry Avenue More information a show starting at 7:30 p.m. at Rhode Island College in trad tunes, ballads, stories, dancing, and includes at capecodstpatricksparade.com. the Roberts Hall auditorium. In a performance titled a traditional Irish meal. Tickets are $25 and can be Saturday, the 10th at 11 a.m. – City of Lawrence. “Stepping Out,” an all-star cast brings to life the epic purchased at burren.com. Parade will start at intersection of Amesbury Street tale of Celtic culture, carrying its traditional melodies March 17-18: The Reagle Players will perform their and Common Street, and proceed down Amesbury and steps to the New World with a Gala Celebration production “A Little Bit of Ireland” at Waltham High Street by the Claddagh Pub over the Central Bridge of Irish Music and Dance. For tickets visit www.ric. School. There will be two shows Saturday at 2 p.m. onto Parker Street, turning left onto Salem Street, edu/pas or call (401) 456-8144. and 7 p.m., and one show Sunday at 2 p.m. Tickets down Salem Street , turning left onto Market Street Thursday, March 15: The Irish American Partner- available at reaglemusictheatre.com or at (781) 891- past the Reliefs’ In ending at Market Street and Osgood ship will host their annual St. Patrick’s Day Breakfast 5600. Tickets cost $5.50 online, $3 by phone, and free Street. More information at lawrencestpatsparade.com. from 8-10 a.m. at the Boston Harbor Hotel. This year’s at the box office. Saturday, the 10th at noon – City of Providence, breakfast will feature keynote speaker Irish Minister March 22-25: The 18th annual Irish Film Festival RI. Parade starts at Smith and Rosebank Streets and for Rural and Community Development , will showcase the very best of contemporary Irish ends at the Rhode Island State House. More informa- T.D., as well as guest speaker Dr. Maeve Liston, Co- cinema. This year’s festival will feature more than 35 tion at providencestpatricksparade.org. ordinator of the Irish American Partnership’s STEM Irish productions. All films will be shown at the historic Sunday, the 11th at noon – City of Worcester. Program. Reserve seats online at irishap.org. Somerville Theatre in Davis Square. For more infor- Parade begins at Mill Street and Park Avenue and Friday, March 16: Irish Network Boston will host mation and to buy tickets visit irishfilmfestival.com. ends at Highland Street. More information at stpat- their annual St. Patrick’s Day party from 6:30-9:30 Friday, April 6: The Gaelic Players Association will sparade.com. p.m. inside the State Street Pavilion at Fenway Park. host their 2nd annual Boston GPA Dinner on April 6th Saturday, the 17th at 11 a.m. – Newport, RI. Parade There will be Irish music, dancing and cheer, special at the InterContinental Hotel. They are projecting to starts at City Hall. Rain or shine. More information guests, hors d’oeuvres, and an open bar throughout the have over 500 attendees. Registration will be available at newportirish.com. evening. Members only event. Members are welcome soon on the GPA website. Sunday, the 18th at noon – City of Holyoke. Parade to purchase one additional ticket for a guest. Register Saturday, April 7: The Eire Society will host their starts at Kmart Plaza on Northampton Street and ends for the event or become a member at irishnetwork- annual Gold Medal Dinner on April 7th at 6 p.m. at the at High Street and Hampton Street. More information boston.net. Seaport Boston Hotel. This year’s Gold Medal Award at holyokestpatricksparade.com. Saturday, March 17 recipient is Dorchester native and President and CEO Sunday, the 18th at 1 p.m. – Town of Scituate. Dorchester’s 11th annual St. Patrick’s Day Brunch of the New England Council, James T. Brett. Brett, a Parade begins at Gates Middle School on First Parish will be held from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at St. Teresa business leader, legislator, and lifelong advocate for Rd and ends at Hatherly Rd by Satuit Tavern. More of Calcutta Parish Hall, 800 Columbia Rd., Dorches- public policy issues, has dedicated much of his life information at weloveaparade.com. ter. The 2018 Dorchester Hall of Fame Inductees will to advocating for the physically and mentally chal- Sunday, the 18th at 1 p.m. – Town of Abington. include Fire Commissioner Joseph E. Finn, Sr. Bar- lenged. Tickets are $150 per person. More information Parade starts at St. Patrick’s Square (corner of Orange bara Gorham, SCH, The Marr Family. Special Guests: available at eiresociety.org/events/gold-medal/ or call and Washington). More information at eddiebaileysga- Governor Charlie Baker and Mayor Martin Walsh. 781-801-6316. rage.com. All proceeds to benefit Mary Ann Brett Food Pantry. Sunday, April 15: Irish Hearts for Orphans will Information courtesy of Boston Irish Tourism As- $100 per person. host their annual benefit dance from 3-7 p.m. at the sociation. Page 4 March 2018 BOSTON IRISH Reporter bostonirish.com Publisher’s Notebook RIP Jack Hynes, Hub’s longtime Mayor of Parkland has deep Boston Irish roots news man who played it straight By Ed Forry As the grieving residents of Parkland, Florida seek to recover from the tragic Valentine’s Day massacre at their high school, the city’s government is led by a woman with deep Boston Irish roots. Mayor Christine Hunschofsky is a Boston Latin School graduate who was born and brought up in Roslindale, and holds several degrees from and Babson College. She is the 48 year-old daughter of John McGuire, a native of County Mayo and a well-known and respected leader in Boston’s Irish community. On Feb. 25, McGuire joined with pastor Rev. John Carroll and parishioners at St. John Chrysostom church in West Roxbury after Sunday Mass to create a memorial tableau with photos of the 17 victims of the mass murder. The parish planned to send letters of condolences to the principal of Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School as a way to show support to the mayor’s grieving city. The proud father said his daughter was among the invited attendees at a highly publicized “listening session” at the White House immediately after the The Hynes Family, Boston Irish Honors Award recipients in 2010. From left, Barry Hynes, Mark Gal- massacre. In a broadcast on lagher, Richard Hynes, Jack Hynes, Marie Hynes Gallagher, Barry Hynes and Susan Gallagher. NPR’s Morning Edition, Mayor Margaret Brett Hastings photo Hunschofsky spoke about the session. By Ed Forry plary Boston Irish Family.” In a lengthy interview with “I left that meeting feeling For some 70 years, members of the Hynes family BIR contributor Jack Thomas, Jack Hynes roamed over Christine Hunschofsky like the president wants to take gave Dorchester cachet in the worlds of politics and the landscape of his memory to fill pages and pages action, and there seems to be a the media. with anecdotes of times long gone by, offering up an resolve. Vice President Pence was also there. He seemed In 1947, then Boston City Clerk John B. Hynes, a oral history of Boston journalism that featured, as resolved. I think we’re just really now at a point where Dorchester resident, became acting mayor when the Thomas wrote, “cops, firemen, gangsters, reprobates, people of all parties and of all areas of the country just legendary James Michael Curley was moved from his scalawags, and neer-do-wells.” want to see some action and some solutions,” she said. mayor’s seat in City Hall to a cell in federal prison after As the decades rolled by, he noted, “The people around “So many times, people get so caught up in their own being convicted of mail fraud while in office. Hynes me got younger and younger, and I could relate less ideals and beliefs, and we forget about what we really later defeated Curley for the mayor’s seat three times, and less to them. The clincher came at Channel 56. We need to focus on, and that’s to make sure that something in 1949, 1951, and 1955, a decade when the so-called had a producer, a college graduate who had worked like this never happens again.” New Boston was born and nurtured in its infancy. in TV for three years. One night I alerted her that The whole community is grieving,” said Mayor Hun- As his father wound down his last term, his son, John the next day was Dec. 7, and that we should have the schofsky. “We lost 17 lives from the Marjory Stoneman B. “Jack” Hynes Jr., hoisted the family’s flag in the morning guy line up an interview with somebody who’d Douglas community, and for the last week, we’ve been world of broadcast journalism, beginning as a reporter been at Pearl Harbor. Honest to God, she said, ‘Pearl going to memorials, to funerals. And we live in such for WBZ radio and television in 1957. For the next 50 Harbor? When was that?’ I said, ‘Right after the Battle a wonderful, close-knit community in Parkland, very years, his face was as familiar as any to the people of of Gettysburg.’ She said, ‘Oh, yeah.’ I said, ‘You’ve got family-oriented. Most people have been somehow af- greater Boston and beyond as he anchored news pro- it confused with Pearl Jam, which is a rock group.’ I fected or knew someone. So it really hits home for our grams at a number of stations until he retired after a knew then it was time for me to go, and after that, I residents and makes it very tough. long run at Channel 56 in Boston in 2006. just did weekends and commentaries.” “So we’re definitely going through a grieving process, Funeral services were held on Monday in Chatham And so he moved on, a living symbol of an earlier and it’s going to be a long process,” she said. “The good on Cape Cod for Mr. Hynes, who died of heart failure time when television news was given to viewers with news is - if there is good news in this - because we have on Feb. 12 at the age of 88. the assumption that the vast majority of them knew such a tight-knit, bonded community, we’ll get through He was a local boy through and through. Born and the history of their city, their state, their nation, and this together.” raised in Dorchester, he grew up in a home at 31 Druid their world. Speaking with the Reporter after a Feb. 25 Éire Street in the Codman Hill/Lower Mills neighborhood, Mr. Hynes was predeceased in 1998 by his wife Society event at Doyle’s in Jamaica Plain, McGuire was an altar boy at St. Gregory’s church, and attended Marie (Kelly) Hynes. He leaves his sons John III of said his daughter has always been a leader. “Christine the parish grammar school and Boston College High South Boston and Barry of Beverly; two daughters, went to Boston Latin School and got a full scholarship School. He took some time away from his home village Kelly Hynes McDermott of Medfield and Shauna to Boston University. She got two degrees from BU and to earn a degree in journalism from Notre Dame Uni- Hynes-Baler of Yarmouth Port; a sister, Marie Hynes then she did a one-year international entrepreneurial versity in 1952, and to serve a three-year stint in the Gallagher of Falmouth; and a brother, Barry of South degree at Babson [College]. She won an Ernst & Young Marines before returning to the city in 1957. Boston. A second brother, Richard, of Brookline, was accounting award. In a 2010 ceremony sponsored by the Boston Irish found dead of a heart attack on Feb. 17. He also leaves “After she finished college she said, ‘Dad I’m going Reporter, the Hynes family was honored as an “exem- ten grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. over to Austria for a month or two,’ which ended up becoming three years. And I’m saying, ‘When are you coming back?’ She got a job with an engineering company Off the Bench there and her husband was an engineering manager there they hit it off and that’s the story.” The family settled in Parkland, a small city a half- hour drive from Fort Lauderdale, where Christine Looking for authenticity? Visit became active in community affairs. She was a coach in youth soccer and little league, a member of her parish school board. She has volunteered for many years at ‘Stan’s’ on a Marco Island inlet the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School. By James W. Dolan ing room” also serves as an elaborate refugee camp. “She decided to run for city commissioner in the city Special to the Reporter That may account for the unease I occasionally feel of Parkland and eventually mayor,” McGuire says. “And For a person who was not always so fond of Florida, in this comfortable world apart. when she ran for mayor in 2016 she got more votes I seem to be spending a lot more time there of late. I was there for the last election and I was distressed than both of the major candidates, Hillary and Donald.” I expect it has something to do with my lady friend, at the large number of Trump supporters. He received McGuire said he regularly visits with his Florida who just happens to own a home on Marco Island. overwhelming support from people who had “made family. Neither of us expected to get lucky a second time it.” They had money, status, and security, and almost “I have been going there for 17 years. I just spent the following the deaths of our nothing in common with Trump’s traditional base. month of January there with Christine. When I go down, spouses. Yet they feared some of the same things. Overwhelm- I’m the handy man. I fix the light bulbs.” We both chose to embrace ingly white, many saw immigration, social welfare He said when he first heard word of the shootings, he that somewhat shallow but programs, and the growing minority population as immediately recognized the neighborhood. joyful exhortation: “We’re a threat. “It is very bad for the families,” he said. “Absolutely not here for a long time; There is something artificial about a lifestyle that on terrible.” we’re here for a good time.” weekends drives residents to a joint called “Stan’s,” a But why should we shrink legendary roadhouse on an inlet in a section of Marco into the dark recesses of known as Goodland. It’s stuck away in an isolated remorse, loss and isolation, corner of the island like an eccentric relative. It’s Boston Irish particularly now when we not quite ready for prime time. But on weekends have more free time than they all come to enjoy the sounds, smells, tastes, and when we were raising our companionship of an authentic southern honky-tonk. REPORTER The setting is open, the music country western, The Boston Irish Reporter is published monthly by: James W. Dolan families? We’re now fully Boston Neighborhood News, Inc., formed, self-aware, and in- loud and brash. The dancing is lively and the food 150 Mt. Vernon St., Suite 120, Dorchester, MA 02125 dependent, wearing comfortably the joys and strains and spirits plentiful, but not overpriced. Unlike much [email protected] www.bostonirish.com and the pleasure and pain of our earlier lives. They of the rest of the island, it ain’t fancy, but it’s real. Mary C. Forry, President (1983-2004) are etched into our faces and molded into our souls. Characters are welcome and add spice to an eclectic Edward W. Forry, Publisher We have a history, a perspective that provides mix of fun lovers who revel in the joint’s diversity. Thomas F. Mulvoy Jr., Managing Editor insight, awareness, and the comfort of a task well The playful atmosphere is infectious as young and William P. Forry, Editor old, bikers and BMW owners share a laugh. Peter F. Stevens, Contributing Editor done, for the most part. With experience comes the News Room: (617) 436-1222 compassion to understand, forgive, and accept our When Stan Gober, the founder, owner, and impresa- Ads : (617) 436-1222 flawed humanity. Too many seniors flee to Florida rio, died, they named the second bridge to the island Fax: (617) 825-5516 [email protected] seeking a refuge from the problems that beset society. after him. A fitting honor because “Stan’s” is a place On The Web at www.bostonirish.com They live and play in private enclaves, insulated from that bridges differences. Its festive atmosphere brings Date of Next Issue: April, 2018 the turmoil of a democracy in crisis. together folks who might otherwise never appreciate just how alike they are. You would never mistake Deadline for Next Issue: Thursay, March 22 at 12 noon It’s not just the bitter weather they flee. The harsh- ness of winter is a reminder that time is running out. that roadhouse for a church, but it is a place where Published monthly in the first week of each month. people gather to celebrate their common humanity. The Boston Irish Reporter is not liable for errors appearing in advertisements beyond It also serves as a metaphor for the disorder, poverty, the cost of the space occupied by the error. The right is reserved by The Boston Irish violence, and confusion they wish to avoid in their James W. Dolan is a retired Dorchester District Reporter to edit, reject, or cut any copy without notice. sunset years. What some describe as “heaven’s wait- Court judge who now practices law. bostonirish.com March 2018 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 5 Point of View ‘YOU WALKED RIGHT IN’ ‘Illegal’ and ‘Undocumented’ Irish immigrants in historical reality By Peter F. Stevens legislative and gubernatorial races looming, the Na- BIR Staff tivists, or Know-Nothings, had their collective eyes When it comes to the immigrants of yesteryear – espe- on higher office, where they could enact laws target- cially Irish immigrants to America’s shores –historical ing foreigners and Catholics. Across the nation, the distortions and outright lies abound. A huge number movement’s ranks swelled to over a million in 1854, of Irish Americans refuse to accept any comparisons their confidence leading them to anoint themselves between their sacred ancestors from the old sod and the the “American Party.” undocumented immigrants of today. Today’s Nativists What they knew all too well was that they loathed any- hurl the argument that in the grim years of the Potato thing Irish, anything Catholic, any immigrant except Famine, the waves of Irish streaming into America from the right kind, anything they deemed “un-American.” “coffin ships” or across the Canadian border were not They proclaimed that they needed to save the nation ever officially branded “illegal immigrants.” from going broke to pay for “Paddy and Bridget,” who On the surface, the assertion is accurate. The term were arriving in unprecedented waves. Anyone who “illegal immigrant” did not exist in the American lexicon was not a native-born, Anglo-Protestant was not a real of the 19th Century. Back in 2014, the Boston Globe’s American, but a threat to them. Again, the outsider, Johanna Weiss’s column posed the question about the the other. In short, the Nativists “wanted their country phrase to Mae Ngai, a Columbia University historian back.” Today, the phrase has an all-too-familiar ring. and expert on immigration. Ngai replied, “People are In the 1856 presidential election, the American shocked when I say before World War I, there were no Party ran former President Millard Fillmore. The green cards, no visas, no quotas, no passports, even. party teemed with the haters and the disaffected of Really, you just showed up. And if you could walk the era, and they believed the White House was theirs without a limp, and you had $30 in your pocket, you for the taking. walked right in.” Boston’s memorial to the Irish Famine, located near While many Boston voters cast their ballots for the “You walked right in” – Does that sound familiar from Downtown Crossing, recalls a period when many former president, he captured but one state, Maryland. the Trumpian playbook? Any of us whose pre-World Irish fled to the United States seeking refuge. The onset of the Civil War would shove the Nativists, War I ancestors fled famine, oppression, and outright File photo or Know-Nothings, into history’s backwaters. Still, persecution from Ireland and other corners of prejudice toward immigrants would endure, but along may well have simply “walked right in” to America. they want only the “right kind” of immigrants. That’s the way it galvanized the Boston Irish to do what the The borders were wide open, so to speak. where historical reality shreds the modern Nativists’ Know-Nothings had done: seize power through the No one in his or her right mind believes that the arguments and exposes either their bigotry or willing ballot box. The Irish proved far better at holding onto US in 2018 should not have border security and com- ignorance. The waves of Irish, Germans, Italians, and that clout than had the Know-Nothings. prehensive immigration reform. If anyone, however, Eastern Europeans who came to America from the That is why today’s Irish Americans should think truly believes that the Great Wall of Trump will rise onset of the Great Famine into the early 20th century long and hard, and remember their own families’ his- across thousands of miles of our southern border, he encountered the same prejudice and contempt that tory as the debate over borders, quotas, security, and or she is either benighted by hate or willingly foolish. immigrants from Mexico, Central and Latin America, DACA blazes. We do have to control our borders, but Back to our own Irish and European ancestors who Haiti, Africa, and so many other places face today. do so with sensible and humane – not hateful – im- “walked right in.” They arrived without documents. Our Irish American forebears—particularly the im- migration policy. They faced no quota system and no immigration courts migrants of the 1840s and 1850s—were in many ways As the adage preaches, we ignore the past at our or law enforcement. Like it or not, our pre-war ancestors as reviled by “real Americans” as the Mexicans, the peril. This month, as we celebrate all things Irish came to “the Golden Door of America” undocumented. Muslims, and the “dangerous immigrants” who have on the 17th, one would vainly hope, it seems, that In Boston during the mass immigration of the Great fueled the hateful rhetoric of Donald Trump and many President Trump, his chief of staff, John Kelly (of Famine era, about the only thing preventing the Irish of his allies and acolytes. The Irish – again, undocu- course, that could end any day now), House Speaker from getting in was if they were quarantined at Deer mented Irish – of the mid-19th Century in Massachu- Paul Ryan, and others across the nation might actually Island due to disease. They did not have to deal with setts were “the other” when Nativists mounted their think back to last March, when former Irish paperwork issues, quotas, or immigration courts. most serious previous attempt to seize the presidency. reminded the President that “St. Patrick “That was then, this is now!” President Trump and In the spring of 1854, they carried elections in Boston, was an immigrant.” his fellow Nativists bleat today as they profess that Salem, and other cities. With the fall Massachusetts

Happening at the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum KENNEDY LIBRARY FORUMS e Nine Irish Lives: The Fighters, Thinkers, Free Performing Arts Programs for Children at the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum & Artists Who Helped Build America Wednesday, March 14, 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. The Irish Balladeers Screenwriter and author Mark Bailey, president of the Save the Children Action Network Mark Shriver, and Pulitzer Saturday, March 11 Prize-winning Washington Post journalists Mary Jordan and Kevin Sullivan discuss their new book, Nine Irish Lives: The Fighters, 10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Thinkers, & Artists Who Helped Build America. Dr. Robert Mauro, In celebration of St. Patrick’s Day, take a musical director of the Boston College Irish Institute and Global Leadership trip to the Emerald Isle! The Irish Balladeers Institute, moderates. perform traditional stories and dances with authentic Irish instruments. The Celebrate! series is appropriate for family audiences and children ages 5 and up. In order to optimize your comfort and enjoyment, reservations are required for all visitors to this free program. Make reservations by RESERVATIONS AND INFORMATION: visiting jfklibrary.org/celebrate or calling 617-514-1644 and leaving a message. Children are seated on the floor All forums are free and open to the public. Reservations are strongly recommended. They guarantee a seat in the with their caretakers. Space is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Children must be accompanied by an building but not the main hall. Doors to the main hall open approximately one hour before the program begins. adult. With generous support from the Highland Street Foundation To make a reservation, you may either call 617-514-1643 or register online at www.jfklibrary.org/forums. and the Mass Cultural Council. Please check our website periodically for updates to our upcoming Forums.

With generous support from: Columbia Point, Boston • 617-514-1600 • www.jfklibrary.org General admission to the Museum is $14. Admission for seniors over 62 and college students with appropriate ID is $12 and $10 for youth ages 13-17. Children 12 and under are always free. Museum Hours: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Red Line to JFK/UMass to Shuttle X JFK_Feb 2018_10x8_Irish Rep.indd 1 2/26/18 12:28 PM Page 6 March 2018 BOSTON IRISH Reporter bostonirish.com Sinn Fein faces a tough challenge (Continued from page 1) Ireland Assembly in 2007 government in both the throughout all of Ireland. leader of Sinn Fein last at the age of 30. She has North and South. In the It is the party these two month February. She been a minister of two North, it has elected 27 young women will lead. is a graduate of Trin- portfolios and has been of the 90 members of the It won’t be easy. ity College, she has two praised for her work with governing assembly, and The Brexit problem children, and many years all factions in the North. 19 of the 60 members of is hard to quantify. The of experience in Irish poli- Her father was involved the Belfast city council. In British and the Euro- tics. But she has never with the IRA, but she the South, the people of peans are negotiating had any involvement has had no involvement, the Republic have elected terms of the withdrawal, with the violent side of it is said. 23 Sinn Fein members and, as in all important Sinn Fein/IRA. They take over a party in the 118-seat National negotiations, the sides Her deputy in the that has experienced Parliament. are regularly issuing self- North, Michelle O’Neill, surprising growth and Few had predicted such serving press announce- 41, and also a mother of strength over the last 25 growth and popular ap- ments. Essentially, the two, is from Dungannon years. Under Adams and peal. Today, Sinn Fein British want their com- Mary Lou McDonald Michelle O’Neill in Co. Tyrone. She was McGuinness, the party is the only party that has plete sovereignty while Heads up Sinn Fein Deputy in the North elected to the Northern has become a force in achieved such a mandate maintaining the benefits they had when they were cuss the restoration of in the EU. the Assembly. The talks Ireland’s interest is in failed and the Assembly how the border between remains closed. It may be Northern Ireland and the that neither side (Sinn Republic will be treated, Fein and the DUP) want The Éire Society of Boston and what is in the future to resolve the issue. For for business dealings its part, Sinn Fein wants with Britain. the Irish language used 2018 Gold Medal Dinner & Award Ceremony Nothing is yet set in on street signs, public stone. There have been buildings, and govern- Saturday, April 7, 2018 several calls for a second ment papers as is done in vote, but there is little evi- the Republic. This seems dence that will happen. to be a bridge too far for 6pm The British ego as master the Unionists. of the commonwealth’s The Unionists feel that fate still prevails. From because they have given Seaport Boston Hotel an Irish standpoint, its their ten votes in Parlia- leaders must be vigilant ment to Theresa May to in protecting Ireland’s keep her party in office, interests. Another very they will be favored in difficult problem is the any settlement. Sinn lack of a Northern Ireland Fein may just be wait- Assembly; the govern- ing for the next election ment at Stormont has after they came so close been closed now for more to taking power from the than 13 months, depriv- DUP last time. ing the North of any voice In any case, the new in Brexit negotiations. leaders of Sinn Fein will In mid-February, Irish have to do some heavy Prime Minister Leo Vara- thinking if they are to be ker and British Prime successful in the coming Minister Theresa May years. visited Belfast to dis- Canada puts out a welcome mat for immigrants While the United States ambitious immigration and a number of other levels in recent Canadian Honoring 2018 Gold Medal Award Recipient countries are moving history, and represents firmly to narrow down a major investment into the number of immigrants Canada’s prosperity now James T. Brett, CEO, The New England Council seeking to make new lives and into the future.” far from their ancestral Of these newcomers, the homes, Canada is out of story added, the majority step with the program, will be admitted as eco- Join us for a lively and elegant evening in honor of James T. Brett! according to an article by nomic migrants, chosen Hugo O’Doherty in the for their experience, edu- Irish Times. cation level, age, language For more information, contact Gold Medal Dinner Committee Members: Between now and the skills, and employment end of 2020, Canada will prospects. email William J. Smith at [email protected] welcome around one mil- Canada also offers fam- lion new permanent resi- ily sponsorship programs, or call Cornelia Cassidy Koutoujian at (781) 899 - 3140 dents, the Times story giving Canadian citizens said, quoting Canadi- and permanent residents Tickets are $150.00 per person an immigration minis- the opportunity to spon- ter Ahmed Hussen, him- sor their foreign spouse self a Somali immigrant to or common-law partner, eiresociety.org Canada, as saying the plan parents, grandparents, or would “result in the most dependent children. A Happy St. Patrick’s Day to All!

234 Copeland Street, Suite 225, Quincy, MA 02169 Brian W. O’Sullivan Tel. 617-479-0075 Ext. 331 Fax 617-479-0071 CFP®, ChFc, CLU [email protected] Partner www.commonwealthfinancialgroup.com Brian W. O’Sullivan, CFP ®, ChFC, CLU, is a registered representative of and offers securities, investment advisory and financial planning services through MML Investors Services, LLC, Member SIPC. Supervisory Address: 101 Federal Street, Suite 800, Boston, MA 02210 • 617-439-4389 bostonirish.com March 2018 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 7 Page 8 March 2018 BOSTON IRISH Reporter bostonirish.com March 17: thoughts of a patron saint, milestones for Boston’s Irish heritage (Continued from page 1) 26 men gathered in the faith, their devotion to of Ireland, or Natives a barn on the corner of throbbing cheers and heart of Puritan Boston Protestantism may have of any other Part of the Berry Street and Long applause of thousands to commemorate a decid- been found wanting by British Dominions of Irish Lane [now Channing and massed along the route. edly Improper Bostonian some in the citizenry. The Extraction, being protes- Federal Streets]; and this The outpouring of “Irish event. They were Irish- religious question aside, tants, and inhabitants of unpretentious building Pride” reached a throaty born men living in a place the men drew up a charter Boston.” served them, with the ad- crescendo at Faneuil Hall. where most locals loathed that professed their pride Of the first members dition of a couple of wings, A few months earlier, This year, the same anything that smacked of as sons of the Emerald of the Charitable Irish till 1744.” Washington had received sentiments and traditions “Popery,” and celebrating Isle, and they were meet- Society, historian James Despite 18th-century a letter from Colonel will fill the route of the a Catholic saint’s holy day ing on the day dedicated Bernard Cullen has writ- Boston’s vehement preju- Henry Knox, a Bostonian Southie parade’s 109th could well have proven a to Ireland’s patron saint. ten: “An important part dice toward Catholics, the of Belfast lineage. A book- procession – as they al- risky proposition. The first St. Patrick’s of the membership of The society began ignoring the seller by trade, Knox had ways do. The reason that these Day celebration of the Charitable Irish Society religious restriction just been sent by Washington Celebrating in Style men pulled it off was that Charitable Irish Society was the Irish Presbyte- 27 years later, in 1764, to Fort Ticonderoga, in in 1737: Charitable they were Protestant; was under way. rian Church, established and formally removed the upstate New York. The Irish Society however, since some were To become members, in Boston in 1727. They Presbyterian requirement fortress, which had been It was 280 years ago, formerly Roman Catholics men had to be reasonably first worshipped in a in 1804. taken by Ethan Allen and on March 17, 1737, that who had “embraced” a new successful and “natives building which had been Today, the tradition his Vermont Green Moun- that began on that March tain Boys, contained the day 280 years ago re- heavy artillery so sorely mains strong. The Chari- needed by Washington, table Irish Society holds a and it was Knox’s mis- unique place in the annals sion to get the armaments of the Boston Irish and down to Boston. Irish America alike. According to historian Two for One James Bernard Cullen, Whether one calls the “Colonel Knox kept his day “St. Patrick’s Day” word. With an enterprise or “Evacuation Day,” the and perseverance that Irish can lay claim to both elicited the warmest com- celebrations on Mach mendations, be brought, 17. Many men bearing over frozen lakes and surnames of “the old sod” almost impassable snows, were nestled behind bris- more than 50 cannons tling cannons that peered and mortars, [and other down from Dorchester material]. With this train Heights on that day in Washington was enabled 1776. The redcoats, or to strengthen his posi- “Lobsterbacks,” were flee- tion, and to make a more ing Boston aboard Royal decisive move against the Navy vessels straining to enemy.” haul anchor and hightail it Once the cannons were out of the harbor – which brought up to Dorchester lay directly under the Heights and trained on Rebels’ heavy guns. the British in Boston, the Commanding the Pa- Redcoats had no choice but triots was George Wash- to evacuate their exposed ington, who held a deep positions. The “lobster- regard for the Irish-born backs” never returned. troops serving in his One look at the muster ranks. On March 17, rolls of the Continental 1776, Washington was Army proves the Irish well aware that it was presence not only on St. Patrick’s Day and March 17 at Dorchester that many Irishmen had Heights but throughout fought at Bunker Hill and the Revolutionary War. had just helped drag those They witnessed what their cannon up the Dorches- countrymen on the “old ter slopes. Washington sod” could only dream of: proffered a tip of his tri- the British in full flight. cornered hat to Patriots This month, 241 years with Irish surnames as later, March 17 fittingly the British troops boarded marks both St. Patrick’s their transports. On that Day and Evacuation Day momentous day, he had – a dual celebration of General John Sullivan Ireland’s venerated saint countersign the dispatch and the day the Redcoats making “Saint Patrick” were forced out of Boston Please come and celebrate the army’s official watch- for good. word. Dorchester’s Eleventh Annual ‘The Peacemaker’ St. Patrick’s Day Brunch called ‘fascinating Saturday, March 17, 2018, 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. portrait that is, if anything, too brief ’ St. Teresa of Calcutta Parish Hall Word is in from New York City 800 Columbia Road, Dorchester James Demos’s doc- umentary on Padraig O’Malley’s life and times 2018 Dorchester Hall of Fame Inductees as a man bent on conflict Fire Commissioner Joseph E. Finn resolution opened in New York last month and re- Sr. Barbara Gorham, SCH ceived an upbeat review from the Times’s critic, The Marr Family Glenn Kenny, who called O’Malley “a scholar and Special Guests what one might call an amateur diplomat.” Governor Charlie Baker Of the ‘Peacemaker’ himself, the critic’s essay Mayor Martin Walsh concludes, “it’s his pecu- liar detachment, perhaps, All proceeds to benefit that makes him good at what he does, even when Mary Ann Brett Food Pantry the summits he hosts — he spent years in Iraq and in South Africa — yield $100 per person Dr. Larry Ronan and Jim Brett nothing more than agree- ments on bilingual street Padraig O’Malley Reservations will be held at door Co-Chairs signs. nating portrait that is, if “The movie is a fasci- anything, too brief.” bostonirish.com March 2018 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 9 “Pathways to Our Past” sets tone for Celtic Connections Conference Interested in research- Using Google Earth.” until June 4, 2018. Con- the conference brochure, link to hotel lodging / available at celticconnec- ing your Celtic roots? A full listing of the ference details including online registration and conference venue are tions.org. You can do that and so two days of programs much more when you at- is available at celtic- tend the Celtic Connec- connections.org. tions Conference 2018 Offerings outside the “Pathways to Our Past” classroom will be equally on Aug. 10 and 11 at the engaging. The Aug. 10 Marriott in Newton.. luncheon speaker will TIARA (The Irish An- be Kate Chadbourne , a cestral Research As- harpist and storyteller sociation) together with who will present “Fairy IGSI (Irish Genealogical Paths & Ancient Ways: Society International) Songs and Stories of will join forces once again Roads and Remember- to co-sponsor the confer- ing.” Saturday’s lun- ence where presenters cheon will have a local from Ireland, Scotland, flavor when storyteller and England will be Sharon Kennedy, tells presenting lectures in of “The Strike for Bread the areas of Irish, Scots and Roses, Lawrence, Irish, Scottish and Welsh 1912.” genealogy, culture, DNA A preconference bus and exciting new ways to trip to Lowell will contin- interpret and discover ue the story of Irish and your ancestral roots. Scottish millworkers. Audrey Collins, Dr. Participants will tour the Bruce Durie, Fiona Boot Cotton Mill, hear Fitzsimons, Maurice a lecture on the Irish in Gleeson, John Grenham mill history, and view and Christine Wood- the “Mill Girls and Im- cock are all interna- migrants” exhibit. tionally known gene- Kate Chadbourne will alogists. Also making join Katie O’Neill, Mike presentations will be ten Kerr and Greg Bacon family history experts in the musical group from around the United “Katie and Friends” to States. entertain at the Fri- Conference partici- day night banquet with pants will be hard pressed “Songs from Both Sides to choose between four of the Atlantic.” The tracks of lectures that conference will end on will include such top- Saturday evening with ics as “Strategies for a lively Celtic-themed Finding the Origins of pub quiz. Your Irish Ancestors”; Specially priced lodg- “Adding DNA to Your ing for conference-goers Genealogical Toolkit”; is available at the confer- and “Mapping Your An- ence site. Discounted reg- cestral Home in Ireland istration fee is available

Happy St. Patrick’s Day

For each petal on the shamrock This brings a wish your way- Good health, good luck, and happiness For today and every day.

Go mbeannai Dia duit Congressman (May God Bless You) Michael Capuano 7th Congressional District Mayor Martin J. Walsh www.mikecapuano.com Paid for and Authorized by The Committee to Elect Martin J. Walsh Page 10 March 2018 BOSTON IRISH Reporter bostonirish.com The Rev. James T. O’Reilly OSA Division Eight Ancient Order of Hibernians Lawrence, Massachusetts “147 Years of Dedication to Religion, Heritage, Charity and Community”

Irish Heritage Month March 2018 Lawrence, Massachusetts Preserving and Fostering our Heritage and Culture

Thursday, March 1, 2018 IRISH FLAG RAISING Across from City Hall – Common St. @11 a.m. Saturday, March 3, 2018 Friday, March 16, 2018 THE 147th ANNUAL SAINT PATRICK’S DAY 49th ANNUAL SAINT PATRICK’S DAY LUNCHEON at the BANQUET AND DANCE at the Reliefs’ In, One Market Reliefs’ In, One Market Street, Lawrence, MA Traditional Street, Lawrence, MA. Traditional Corned Beef & Cabbage Corned Beef and Cabbage Dinner with entertainment by the Dinner with dancing to John Connors & the Irish Express Silver Spears Irish Show Band at NOON. Awarding of the from 6 pm – 11 p.m. – Awarding of the Richard Cardinal Honorable John E. Fenton Citizenship Award - For more Cushing and Irishman & Irishwoman of the Year Awards. information contact Jack Lahey @ 603 560 8192 Sponsored For more information contact Charles Breen at 508 328 by Division 8 AOH – Handicap Accessible 0323. Sponsored by Division 8 AOH – Handicap Accessible Wednesday, March 21, 2018 Sunday, March 4, 2018 LAWRENCE PUBLIC LIBRARY - South Lawrence 25th ANNUAL CLADDAGH PUB 4 MILER ROAD Branch, 135 Parker Street, Lawrence, MA: OPEN HOUSE RACE 11 a.m. (rain or shine) - For more information: 10:30 am – 1 pm Showcase of Irish Books, CD’s and DVD’s runthecladdagh.com - Sponsored by Division 8 (FREE) – Handicap Accessible Sunday, March 4, 2018 Saturday, March 24, 2018 OPENING RECEPTION and EXHIBIT “The Irish of IRISH FILM FESTIVAL at Lawrence Heritage State Park Massachusetts” and – WHITE FUND LECTURE - with Visitors Center, 1 Jackson St, Lawrence, MA @ 10:00 a.m. Professor Christine Kinealy, Author, Professor and founding Sponsored by Division 8 AOH (FREE) – Handicap Accessible Director of Ireland’s Great Hunger Institute at Quinnipiac University Hamden CT who will talk about her upcoming Sunday, March 25, 2018 book on Frederick Douglas “How Ireland changed Frederick Douglass”- at Lawrence Heritage State Park Visitors CELTIC MELODIES -FROM ANCIENT GAELIC Center, 1 Jackson St, Lawrence, MA @ 2:00 pm Sponsored AIRES TO CURRENT SONGS - performed by Vocalist, by Division 8 AOH (FREE) – Handicap Accessible Bill Donelan and Pianist Terri Kelley at the Lawrence Public Library, Sargent Auditorium, 51 Lawrence St., Lawrence, MA @ 2 pm Presented by Division 8 Wednesday, March 7, 2018 (FREE) – Handicap Accessible LAWRENCE PUBLIC LIBRARY - South Lawrence Branch, 135 Parker Street, Lawrence, MA: OPEN HOUSE Wednesday, March 28, 2018 10:30 am – 1 pm Showcase of Irish Books, CD’s and DVD’s – Sponsored by Division 8 (FREE) – Handicap Accessible LAWRENCE PUBLIC LIBRARY - South Lawrence Branch, 135 Parker Street, Lawrence, MA: OPEN HOUSE 10:30 am – 12 Noon Showcase of Irish Books, CD’s and DVD’s Saturday, March 10, 2018 – Sponsored by Division 8 (FREE) – Handicap Accessible SAINT PATRICKS DAY PARADE 1:00 pm For more information visit their website www.lawrencestpatsparade. IRISH HERITAGE MONTH IS SPONSORED BY THE ANCIENT com ORDER OF HIBERNIANS DIVISION 8 and DIVISION 8 LAOH Irish Heritage Month is supported in part by a grant from the Lawrence Cultural Council, a local Sunday, March 11, 2018 agency which is supported by the PENN RHODEEN, will discuss his book, “Peacerunner” Massachusetts Cultural Council, a state agency. at Lawrence Heritage State Park Visitors Center, 1 Jackson For information on AOH Membership St., Lawrence, MA @ 2 pm Sponsored by Division 8 AOH please write to: Division 8 AOH (FREE) - Handicap Accessible Organizer, PO Box 1407, Lawrence, MA 01842 or e-mail our organizer @ [email protected] bostonirish.com March 2018 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 11 Irish International Immigrant Center Immigration Q&A An agency accredited by US Department of Justice Key dates for legal One State Street, 8th Floor, Boston, MA 02109 (617) 542-7654 Fax (617) 542-7655 Website:iiicenter.org Email: [email protected] permanent residence Q. I have an interview scheduled with US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) on my application Kildare grad explores for permanent residence. Assuming the interview goes well, what happens next? the Pacific Northwest A. In cases where the interview is successful, the For Co. Kildare native development coordinator USCIS officer has the authority to grant you permanent Cliodhna Carthy, the internship position at In- residence immediately. Your new status will begin on mountains of the Pacific cight, an organization that the very same day as the interview, and for most people Northwest called to her. delivers key programs for will be valid for ten years. People applying through a Cliodhna previously re- people with disabilities. US citizen spouse who have been married for less than sided in Vancouver, Brit- “After two interviews I two years at the time of approval receive “conditional ish Columbia, and upon landed the job... I was over permanent residence” that is valid for two years. recommendation from the moon,” she recalled. After the interview, the officer will order production a friend, she decided to Utilizing her background of your permanent resident card (I-551, or “green card”). move to Portland, , in fundraising, Cliodhna In cases where no interview is required, a notice of a through the Boston-based coordinated various proj- favorable decision is mailed to the applicant. In both Irish International Im- ects including, “the plan- types of cases, the actual card will be sent to the mail- migrant Center’s J-1 visa. ning and implementation ing address on record with USCIS – so make sure to Says Cliodhna: “I was of a gala ball, a golf event, inform USCIS, not just the Post Office, right away if hooked on the Pacific and a small individual you change your address. The easiest way to report Northwest. The access to giving campaign at Christ- your change of address is online at uscis.gov. the mountains, with their mas.” Cliodhna enjoyed New permanent residents should be aware of the great hiking and running her workplace, “My co- following: trails […] was a hook for workers were the best. (1) “Conditional” permanent residents (those who me. An Irish friend had They extended the hand of Cliodhna Carthy, IIIC J-1 Intern, enjoyed her time were granted permanent residence based on marriage lived in Portland and hospitality and friendship outdoors in the Pacific Northwest! to a US citizen) need to petition to have the conditions spoke highly of it. He said to me every day.” removed before the two-year green card expires. Peti- with a hiking group and praised her experience in tions must be filed within the 90-day period preceding it had great access to the During her free time, with them I did some the US for contributing outdoors, great local food, she participated in nu- the expiration date. Once the petition is approved, amazing and challenging to her quick employment the applicant will receive a new green card valid for a strong culture of recy- merous different activi- hikes. My favorite hikes upon her return home. cling and reusing, and it is ties, “I joined a running 10 years. were Larch Mountain and Although she has her “feet (2) Once conditional permanent residents have their also one of the top cities in group and enjoyed some North Lake.” She discov- firmly planted back in Ire- the US for cycling”. fantastic trail runs in For- conditions removed, they are eligible to become natural- ered an expat meet-up land,” she looks forward to ized US citizens three years after the date that their The digital market- est Park and great track group called InternNa- visiting the US again soon, ing graduate obtained a workouts. I also connected first application for permanent residence was approved. tions, and quickly became saying, “the world just has Naturalization applications may be filed as early as 90 friends with people from so much to offer!” days before the end of this three-year period. all over the world. Cliodh- C o n g r a t u l a t i o n s , Business Leaders Breakfast set (3) With certain exceptions (involving military na enjoyed living with five Cliodhna, on your excit- service, for example), all other green card holders are for May 11 at Boston Harbor Hotel local roommates, and “two ing and successful year eligible to become naturalized US citizens five years We will be joined by Congresswoman Katherine gorgeous dogs,” and felt at in the US! after the grant of permanent residence. Again, natu- Clark and other speakers for an engaging discussion home in Portland. If anyone is interested ralization applications may be filed as early as 90 days of current immigration issues at our 8th Annual Following the comple- in hiring an Irish J-1 before the five years have expired. Business Leaders Breakfast on May 11 at the tion of her visa, Cliodhna student or graduate for Remember that eligibility for US citizenship involves Boston Harbor Hotel. secured a position as a a 12-month internship other criteria in addition to the length of permanent If you or your company would like to participate in fundraising coordinator position here in Boston, residence – good moral character, English language this year’s Breakfast, please contact Megan Miller for a charity that works please contact Paul Pelan proficiency, physical presence in the US, etc. at [email protected], 617-695-1554. Thank you. with the homeless back at [email protected] or IIIC can advise you on your eligibility for permanent 617-542-7654. home in Ireland. She residence or naturalization at one of our weekly legal clinics. You can find out IIIC’s clinic schedule by check- ing the notice in each month’s Boston Irish Reporter, the calling 617-542-7654, or by visiting iiicenter.org. Matters of Substance Disclaimer: These articles are published to inform generally, not to provide advice in specific cases. Immi- Celebrating all that is Irish this St. Patrick’s Day gration laws are subject to change, and US Citizenship and Immigration Services and the US Department of The air is a bit warmer, If you need ideas as the State frequently amend regulations and alter process- the evenings a bit lighter, St. Patrick’s Day season ing and filing procedures. For legal advice seek the and spring and St. Pat- kicks off, or if you just assistance of IIIC immigration legal staff. rick’s Day are on the want to explore your use horizon. Cities around the of alcohol with someone, world from Dublin to Bel- reach out to us for a free, fast, Boston to Chicago, confidential chat. and Sydney to Shanghai Happy St. Patrick’s Day celebrate a beloved people from Wellness Services at Subscribe Today! and culture worldwide. the IIIC! to the Boston Irish Reporter. As one of the “most Irish Rachel Reisman, LIC- cities in America,” Boston SW rreisman@iiicenter. See our subscription form will see parades, festivals, org; 617-542-7654, Ext. 14 trad sessions and drink- Facebook: Irish Out- ing, a lot of drinking! This reach & Wellness Boston- call 617-436-1222. is what marketers and Rachel Reisman, IIIC Licensed Clinical Indepen- IIIC the alcohol industry will dent Social Worker, and Siobhan Kelly, Wellness continue to tell us means Program Associate, are here to talk. to be Irish. The first celebrations little differently? As ambassadors of Irish IRISH INTERNATIONAL IMMIGRANT CENTER of Ireland’s patron saint, With alcohol as the third culture worldwide, many IMMIGRATION LEGAL ASSISTANCE Patrick, began in the 10th leading cause of prevent- Irish are proclaiming their century in Ireland, rolled able death in the US (some pride for both Ireland and onto the shores over here 88,000 die every year due their sobriety. Cities such to alcohol issues), and the as Dublin, Belfast, New The Irish International Immigrant Center’s immigration attorneys and social workers are available in NY and Boston in the for all immigrants during this time of uncertainty and concern in our community. We are closely 1700s and grew further most significant financial York, and following the changes in immigration policies, and are available for confidential, legal consultations, during the huge waves of burden on Irish society, have formal Sober St. and case representation. At weekly legal clinics, you can receive a free and confidential consultation immigration in the 19th a holiday promoted as a Patrick’s Day events, and, with staff and volunteer attorneys. For information, or if you or anyone you know would like to speak century. It was the 1970s, day for binge drinking can it is hoped, Boston will to an immigration attorney, please call us at (617) 542-7654. however, that seem to leave us questioning what follow soon. herald a celebration that exactly we are celebrating. Staying alcohol-free on Upcoming Clinic Schedule primarily involved binge Among the millions of St. Patrick’s Day doesn’t Clinics are in the evening – please do not arrive more than 30 minutes before the clinic begins. drinking as the most vis- Irish around the world, mean there isn’t a lot Downtown Boston ible – and valid – way to and the thousands back to do during this most IIIC, One State Street, 8th Floor, Boston MA 02109 celebrate all that’s Irish. home in Ireland, and celebrated day for the Tuesdays, March 6th and March 20th at 4:00pm those who love Ireland Irish. Many are creating For a culture celebrated Brighton and known for its mu- everywhere, many have celebratory plans for the The Green Briar Pub, 304 Washington Street, Brighton, MA 02135 sic, arts, literature, and started to seek a less day that involve alcohol- Monday, March 12th at 6:30pm humor, the “craic “ has alcohol-saturated holiday free activities such as that honors the island of walking the Irish Heritage Dorchester become defined primar- St. Mark’s Parish, 1725 Dorchester Avenue, Dorcester, MA 02124 ily with green beer, Irish Ireland’s patron saint. Trail, watching a great Wednesday, March 28th at 6:30pm whiskey, and hangovers. The Alcohol Forum in Irish film or attending For many, it overshadows Donegal has aptly named the Irish Film Festival, the “invisible fifth” as the the Saint Patrick’s Day Citizenship Clinics the many ways to take IIIC, One State Street, 8th Floor, Boston MA 02109 pride in our heritage, to “estimated one in five Celtic Sojourn, or walking Recommencing every Wednesday after March 21st “be Irish” on a day when adults who abstain from or running the St. Pat- From 10am-1pm worldwide we proudly alcohol in Ireland” and rick’s Day 5k Road Race., Walk-ins are welcome! who celebrate their Irish Remember, too, all the encourage everyone to be- come Irish! Could March heritage without the pints great Irish music, movies, 2018, perhaps, be a year of green beer, shots of books and food that can be Our Downtown Boston location is fully accessible by public transportation. for you to think about, and whisky, and the sore head shared with friends, sober Phone: 617.542.7654 | Fax: 617.542.7655 | www.iiicenter.org enjoy, St. Patrick’s day a the next day. and for free! Page 12 March 2018 BOSTON IRISH Reporter bostonirish.com Adversity, determination, humor mark ‘The Irish...And How They Got That Way’ returned to Boston to pursue her career in the theater. For the past 14 years she has worked as a director, playwright, and arts administrator. She is currently Director of Performing Arts at the Boston Center for the Arts. The musical numbers in the show range from “Danny Boy” and “Mother Machree” to “Galway Bay,” “No Irish Need Apply” and “The Rose of Tralee,” among others. “For me,” Dawn has said, “music drives the storytell- ing in this piece. It was clear early on that I wanted to create a band [for the production], something that calls on Irish tradition, but puts a modern spin on it. Kirsten Salpini, the Music Director, has been an incredible collaborator, drawing out the connections Dawn Simmons is the director of Frank McCourt’s “The Irish…And How They Got That Way.” By R. J. Donovan between traditional Irish music and American Folk music.” With one exception, all of the actors play an Special to the BIR think there is enough in the script and in the music Frank McCourt is perhaps best known for his grip- instrument in the show. We spoke at length about the production during a for people to understand and follow along . . . I think ping 1996 memoir, “Angela’s Ashes.” Detailing the we’re in a good place. harshness of his upbringing in Limerick, the book break in Dawn’s busy day. Here’s a condensed look at our conversation. Q. While we clearly know of the bigotry experienced remained on the New York Times bestseller list for by the Irish many decades ago, it’s impossible not to 100 weeks and was honored with multiple awards, Q. What drew you to the production? A. (GBSC Producing Artistic Director) Weylin Symes see it reflected, yet again, in the current political cli- including a Pulitzer Prize. mate. Finger pointing just seems to get shifted from The following year, McCourt created the book for the came to me . . . There was all this talk about what was going to happen with immigration, with immigrants, one target to another. musical “The Irish…And How They Got That Way,” A. Without a doubt. It’s always, who’s in the spotlight celebrating the Irish-American humor, determination, with dreamers, all of that. It was just after Trump had been elected. And Weylin pitched the project in a way at the moment . . . It very well could be you . . . We’re and struggles over the previous century and a half. all quietly minding our business and then suddenly, The exuberant revue premiered off-Broadway at that really made sense to me. This is a really great way to get people to remember their own immigrant Oh, we’re Enemy Number One. It gets crazy . . . I hope The Irish Repertory Theatre and was described as that a show like this holds that mirror up to nature an ““irreverent but affectionate history of the Irish experience . . . We’re all coming here, or we are here, in hopes of making a better life for ourselves. so we can all say, wait, we’re in it again. Instead of in America that mingles laughter and sentiment in a treating each other like enemies again, find the com- tapestry of classical songs and stories. The production Q. Frank McCourt stands as an iconic Irish voice. How familiar were you with his work before taking monality, find the hope and work through it. encapsulates the most tumultuous times of the past Q. What do you hope the take-away is for audiences? century with the vibrant humor and bitter irony that on this project? A. “Angela’s Ashes” is a pretty popular piece. It sort A. I think that shared commonalty, that shared hu- had become the trademark of the author.” manity . . . Remembering that we’re all immigrants . . The Greater Boston Stage Company (formerly of set a tone for me to understand a little more of his tone with this show . . . It gave me a sense of how these . That we all are pulling pieces from each culture that Stoneham Theatre) is presenting “The Irish…And How comes here to make up this really amazing American They Got that Way” from March 8 to March 25. The characters should be speaking and the way they attack language and attack storytelling . . . Having a sense culture . . . If we can see it in the story of the Irish cast includes William Gardiner, Nile Hawver, Michael people, then we can see it in the story of the Italian Levesque, Kirsten Salpini, Nicole VanderLaan, and of his voice and his humor and some of the darkness in his humor was really helpful. people that come here, and we can see it in the story Ceit M. Zweil. of Africans that come here, and the Latinos that come Although the show profiles a specific time and place Q. Is it important for audiences to have a familiarity with the Irish journey? here . . . If we can just find a way to embrace it instead in Irish history, the inherent prejudice and disrespect of being afraid of it. remain timely, with immigration as explosive a topic A. It’s a really interesting question . . . There’s a lot of history in the song; there’s a lot of storytelling in the R. J. Donovan is editor and publisher of onstagebos- as ever. ton.com. Dawn Simmons directs the production. BIR readers music . . . You’re going to have those people who come in and who know the stuff cold and who will be looking ••• may recall that Dawn is a Buffalo native who traces “The Irish…And How They Got that Way,” March her Irish roots through her mother’s grandfather. She for us to tell the story authentically. And we’re going to give them a little twist, so I hope they go with us. 8 – March 25, Greater Boston Stage Company, 395 studied at Boston University, went home to Buffalo to Main Street, Stoneham, MA. Info: 781-279-2200 or work for the Irish Classical Theater Company, and then But there are also going to be people who come, and they may not know anything of the experience, but I greaterbostonstage.org.

Happy Saint Patrick’s Day

STONEHILL COLLEGE I 320 WASHINGTON STREET I EASTON, MA 02357 508-565-1000 | STONEHILL.EDU bostonirish.com March 2018 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 13 Calendar of Music and Dance Events March 2018 As is often the case in in the All-Ireland Fleadh, Celtic fiddle community March, Greater Boston for his uilleann pipes and and beyond, will perform and Eastern Massachu- whistle playing; Kane is a with her band at the Me setts will have plenty singer-songwriter whose & Thee Coffeehouse in of Irish/Celtic-related work has been inspired by Marblehead on March 16 events going on. Here’s a his many travels between at 8 p.m. Cassel is one of look at some of the high- the US and Ireland. the most high-profile and lights (you may want to The Joshua Tree, influential exemplars of get a snack to eat while Boston’s own premier U2 the American-Scottish you read). tribute band, visits the fiddle style, with seven –SEAN SMITH ICC on March 31 at 8 p.m. solo albums to her credit, • The First Parish The group has developed including last year’s “Trip Church in Harvard Square a national reputation for to Walden Pond.” Open- will host a powerful dou- its ability to capture the ing for her will be her ble-header on March at 8 magic and majesty of the husband and bandmate, p.m. featuring Matt and Irish rockers who have Mike Block, an innova- Shannon Heaton and become a world phenom- tor himself who has cul- Dervish. The Heatons enon, and prides itself on tivated a distinctive style (Shannon on flute, whistle reproducing the distinct on cello that encompasses and accordion, Matt on sound of U2 — covering classical, folk and other guitar and bouzouki) are the very early years up to genres. For details, see one of Boston’s most popu- the present — while main- meandthee.org. lar and high-profile Irish taining artistic integrity. • The irrepressible Ka- music acts. Dervish, led • A new Celtic Nights tie McDonnell, better by singer Cathy Jordan, Night Tree, March 28, Burren Backroom series, Somerville theatrical production, known as Katie McD, has garnered widespread “Oceans of Hope,” will and her Cross County praise for their musician- Harp Orchestra will On March 14 at 7:30 boards, mandolin, vocals) have its Massachusetts Band will perform on St. ship and artistry, as well make two area appear- p.m., another former So- and Elias Alexander (lead premiere on March 24 at Patrick’s Day at the Cof- as the quality of their ances this month: at the las member brings his vocals, pipes, low whistle), 8 p.m. in Beverly’s Cabot feehouse Off the Square in recordings. Go to bit. Westwood Public Library new collaboration to the the band flavors tradition- Theatre. The show – build- Hingham on March 17 at ly/2sBxYT1 for tickets. on March 10 at 2 p.m.; and Burren, the Seamus al Scottish and contem- ing on past Celtic Nights 8 p.m. A singer-songwriter • We Banjo 3, which the Canadian American Egan Project. Egan is porary with productions like “Spirit of from Galway, McDon- has built a dedicated fan Club in Watertown on a prize-winning multi- West African funk fusion Freedom” and “Gaelforce nell’s music encompasses base on both sides of the March 17 at 7:30 p.m. Led instrumentalist (flute, and occasional flashes of Dane” – combines music, traditional, contemporary Atlantic with its “Celt- by Regina Delaney, the mandolin, banjo, whistle, New Orleans jazz. Details song, dance, folklore and and original, steeped in grass” music, comes to The group plays traditional guitar) and a highly re- at burren.com. storytelling, drawn from the Irish/Celtic groove. Rockwell in Somerville and contemporary music garded composer and • The fiddle-harp duo the Irish tradition, to tell Her bandmates include for two shows on March arranged for the full or- arranger, including for of Jenna Moynihan the history of Irish emi- Tipperary native Martin 4. Wielding fiddle, guitar chestra as well as various the annual “A Christmas and Mairi Chaimbeul gration to the US, Canada, Butler, a fine singer and and mandolin along with smaller combinations. For Celtic Sojourn” show. In will play at Club Passim , New Zealand, bodhran player known banjo – sometimes more more information, see this recently formed band, on March 16 at 8 p.m. and other parts of the for his humorous and than one – the Galway neiho.org. he is joined by Moira Smi- The pair met while at- world. For more informa- friendly stage presence. quartet of brothers Enda • The Canadian Ameri- ley (vocals, banjo), Kyle tending Berklee College tion, see thecabot.org. More information at old- and Fergal Scahill and can Club, meanwhile, Sanna (guitar), and Owen of Music and launched a • The Linden Tree Cof- shipchurch.org. Martin and David Howley also will host a dance Marshall (bouzouki), in collaboration that builds feehouse in Wakefield • Somewhat farther find common ground be- and concert with An- revisiting some of the on Scottish and other will present the New afield, at Rhode Island tween Old World tradition drea Beaton and Troy multifaceted music from music traditions while England Celtic band Mist College in Providence, the and authentic Americana MacGillivray, who are earlier in his career. incorporating improvisa- Covered Mountains on journey from Old Ireland with their hard-driving among the foremost Cape April Verch will give tory, explorative contem- March 10 at 8 p.m. At to the New World is retold instrumental sets and Breton musicians of their a Sunday matinee perfor- porary styles, making for a the group’s core is Donna in the Dublin Irish Dance enchanting vocal harmo- generation. Beaton, a fid- mance at 4 p.m. on March sound that is mesmerizing Hébert, a fixture in the production of “Stepping nies. Tickets, information dler, composer and step 25. Verch is a fiddler, and bold. Moynihan and New England folk dance Out” on March 13 at 7:30 at therockwell.org. dancer, and MacGillivray, singer and stepdancer Chaimbeul released their world whose repertoire p.m. at The Auditorium in • On March 22, the a multi-instrumentalist, from the Ottawa Valley album, “One Two,” last draws on Irish, Scottish, Roberts Hall. Music, song, Boston College Gaelic songwriter, composer and and its rich Franco-Celtic year. See passim.org for Quebecois, and other tra- and dance convey the tale Roots series will present dancer, both hail from music traditions who over ticket information and ditions, and her daughter of the historic immigra- a concert in the Cadigan notable musical families, the years has extended other details. Molly Hébert-Wilson, a tion from rural Ireland Alumni Center on BC’s and have helped promote her interest to bluegrass, • The Irish Cultural powerful vocalist who west across the Atlantic Brighton Campus by the and contribute to the his- old-timey, and other folk Centre of New England sings in English and Irish. Ocean to cities like New trio Open the Door tory and evolution of their music. Last year, she re- will present some spe- Guitarist Max Cohen York and onward to the for Three. Maine-based Celtic and Gaelic musical leased “The April Verch cial musical events this and mandolinist-banjoist- Appalachians and beyond. spouses Kieran O’Hare traditions. See canadiana- Anthology,” an 18-track month, beginning March 3 vocalist Noam Berg add “Stepping Out” goes all the (uilleann pipes, flute, mericanclub.com. collection celebrating her at 7 p.m. with a concert by further heft to the band’s way up to modern times, whistle) and Liz Knowles • The Burren Back- musical career. Irish tenor Paul Byrom. dynamic. Go to www.lin- where Celtic culture is a (fiddle) have lengthy re- room series will have a Making a return to the Byrom was an original dentreecoffeehouse.org. worldwide phenomenon. sumes that include col- full schedule this month, Backroom after their Sea- member of the interna- • Hanneke Cassel, For information, see ric. laborations with, among beginning on March 7 at mus Egan-produced CD tional singing group Celtic who has become an irre- edu/pas. others, “Riverdance,” 7:30 p.m. with Celtic roots release concert last Octo- Thunder, with whom he sistible force in Boston’s Cherish the Ladies, Danú, quintet RUNA, which has ber will be Night Tree, on performed for three years Robbie O’Connell and the gained a strong regional March 28 at 7:30 p.m. This until leaving at the end of String Sisters. Pat Broad- following in New England sextet of New England 2010 to pursue his solo ca- ers (bouzouki, vocals) is while earning critical ap- Conservatory musicians reer. He has since released a solid accompanist and proval, winning two first- (Lily Honigberg, violin; two albums, “This Is the singer with a vast rep- place honors in the Irish Chris Overholser, violin, Moment” and “Thinking ertoire. [Open the Door Music Awards and four In- viola, and mandolin; Zach of Home,” recorded a PBS for Three also will be a dependent Music Awards. Mayer, saxophones, vo- special and more recently, featured act in this year’s The international line-up cals; Sunniva Brynnel, ac- played the role of Gaston “A St. Patrick’s Day Celtic of Shannon Lambert-Ry- cordion, vocals; McKinley in a Dublin production of Sojourn.” See elsewhere in an (vocals, step-dancing), James, cello; Julian Loida, “Beauty And The Beast.” this issue for more infor- Fionán de Barra (guitar), percussion) that pulls Téada, one of the most mation.] Cheryl Prashker (percus- together Irish and Scan- acclaimed traditional Go to bc.edu/gaelicroots sion), Zach White (guitar, dinavian music with clas- Irish bands to emerge for information. vocals, mandolin), and sical, jazz, klezmer and this century, will come • Altan, which has Maggie White (fiddle, Afro-Cuban influences, to the ICC on March 11 been a force in Irish mu- mandolin) combine the playing in ensemble style for a 2 p.m. performance. sic since emerging from music of Ireland and Scot- while also leaving room for The quintet of Oisín Mac the traditional hotbed of land with the harmonies individual improvisation. Diarmada (fiddle), Paul Donegal three decades and rhythms of jazz, blue- Opening will be Jenna Finn (accordion), Damien ago, will play at Boston’s grass, flamenco and blues. Moynihan, a Boston- Stenson (flute), Tristan City Winery on March 13 Karan Casey, one of based Scottish-style fid- Rosenstock (bodhran) and and 14. The band is led Ireland’s most accom- dler whose music fuses Seán McElwain (guitar), by co-founder Mairéad Ní plished female singers of tradition with a contem- also joined by Séamus Mhaonaigh, a principal the past couple of decades, porary, explorative ap- Begley (vocals, accordion), exponent of the Donegal comes to the Backroom on proach. Moynihan, who has appeared at major mu- fiddle style and a singer March 11 at 4 p.m. Rising plays with harpist Mairi sic festivals throughout in both Gaelic and Eng- to prominence in the 1990s Chambeul (the two will the US, Canada, Mexico, lish, and includes the as lead singer for super- perform this month at Europe, Africa, Russia, A Celebration talents of Ciarán Curran group Solas, Waterford- Club Passim; see below) the Middle East, and Aus- (bouzouki), Dáithí Sproule born Casey then pursued and as part of Laura Cor- tralia. Their expressive (guitar), Mark Kelly (gui- a successful solo career as tese and the Dance Cards, playing sits comfortably tar) and Martin Tourish well as an occasional part- performed at this past on the line between tradi- of (accordion). Altan has nership with former Solas year’s “Christmas Celtic tion and innovation. toured around the world bandmate John Doyle Sojourn.” The center’s St. Pat- while collaborating with – she also reunited with For information on the rick’s Day festivities will All Things Irish! such luminaries as Dolly Solas for its 10th and 20th Burren Backroom series, feature music by Sheila Parton, The Chieftains anniversary commemora- go to burren.com/back- Falls, Torrin Ryan and and Enya, and recently tions. Her sixth and most room_series.html. Sean Kane at 7 p.m. Falls ReagleMusicTheatre.com completed its 13th stu- recent album, “Two More • The Burren also will has played in various dio album, “The Gap of Hours” (2014), contained host a WUMB-FM show- collaborations, includ- 617 Lexington St., Waltham Dreams.” For tickets and all her own compositions case on March 15 at 7 ing as part of the fiddle other details, see citywin- and drew on jazz, R&B p.m. with local Afro-Celtic ensemble Childsplay; 781-891-5600 ery.com/boston. and blues as well as folk ensemble Soulsha. Led Ryan has won several Free Parking • The New England and rock styles. by Neil Pearlman (key- competitions, including Page 14 March 2018 BOSTON IRISH Reporter bostonirish.com

SPRING 2018

Dublin Irish Dance Tuesday, March 13, 2018 7:30 p.m. The Auditorium in Roberts Hall Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with an all-star cast of Irish singers, dancers and musicians. Experience the epic tale of Celtic culture, with traditional melodies and steps in a gala celebration. The journey begins in rural Ireland, prior to the Famine, and leads us to the present, celebrating the evolution of traditional Irish dance and music, and showcasing the pioneers now defining the standard of Irish music and dance.

Purchase your tickets at www.ric.edu/pas or (401) 456-8144. bostonirish.com March 2018 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 15

LIVE IN CONCERT

LOWELL, MA TICKETS AVAILABLE AT Lowell Memorial Auditorium April 5 Page 16 March 2018 BOSTON IRISH Reporter bostonirish.com

Spring to action Register Now

Open the Door for Three will strut their music at St. Patrick’s Celtic Sojourn (Continued from page 1) her own compositions as well as tunes extensive experience in the music scene. from distinguished musician/composers Knowles, for example, has played in like Ed Reavy, Vincent Broderick, and “Riverdance” and as a member of Cher- Charlie Lennon. ish the Ladies and the String Sisters, Gilchrist, a onetime Boston resident while also working in more contemporary who studied at the Berklee College circles with Tim O’Brien, Paul Cole, and of Music, has fashioned a unique ap- Don Henley, among others. O’Hare has proach to Celtic harp that draws upon performed, toured, or recorded with contemporary influences, incorporating Mick Moloney and The Greenfields bits of jazz and world music. She has of America and fiddlers Liz Car- appeared regularly in the Boston area, roll and Jerry Holland, as well as including as part of “A Christmas Celtic baroque performers Ensemble Galilei Sojourn,” for which she is now assistant and singer-songwriter Bonnie Raitt. music director. In addition to his long-time stint as a Murphy, who grew up in Newfound- member of bohola, Broaders’s collabo- land, also is familiar to Boston-area audi- rations include Dennis Cahill, Liz Car- ences through not only “St. Patrick’s Day roll, Martin Hayes, John Doyle, Paddy Celtic Sojourn” but as a member of the O’Brien, Robbie O’Connell, and Danú. Childsplay ensemble, and as a frequent The three are also known for their accompanist for local Scottish fiddler diligent research, digging into books, col- Hanneke Cassel. He has also played with lections, recordings, and other sources, prominent Irish performers like fiddler and for the harmonies and well-crafted and vocalist Karan Casey, arrangements that typify their sound. among others. For nearly two decades, They have recorded three albums, Murphy was part of Nightingale, the including the recently released “The groundbreaking trio he founded with Joyful Hours.” his fiddle-playing wife, Becky Tracy, and Castles grew up in a musical family, accordionist/pianist Jeremiah McLane. and earned All-Ireland Fleadh titles Besides his prowess on guitar, Murphy in solo and group competitions. She is widely praised for his cogent, expres- learned and concertina from sive singing, in both English and French; Rena Crotty Traynor, and later with he’s just released his second solo album, 617.984.1710 Mícheál Ó’Raghallaigh, one of the most “Land of Fish and Seals.” quincycollege.edu/spring respected concertina players today. She Other performers have yet to be con- has recorded a solo album, “Indeedin firmed, and updates and details about You Needn’t Bother,” which includes the show are available at wgbh.org/celtic. St. Patrick’s Day Celebrations at Irish Cultural Centre

200 New Boston Drive, Canton, MA 781-821-8291 www.irishculture.org bostonirish.com March 2018 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 17 Presenting Bualadh Boston 2018, a Back Bay literary fest (March 2-3) On Fri., March 2, and Pulitzer Prize-winning between Boston Globe Street,” and Sally Rooney, Sat., March 3, the Irish poet Paul Muldoon and columnist Kevin Cullen winner of the 2017 Sun- Writers Centre, Poetry former Poet Laureate of and historian Alvin Jack- day Times Young Writer Ireland, and the Consul- the United States Robert son about Jackson’s new Award. They will be in- ate General of Ireland will Pinsky. Born in County book on John Redmond troduced by American present Bualadh Boston Armagh, Muldoon was and Edward Carson, who author Molly McCloskey, 2018, a mini-Irish liter- awarded the Pulitzer in famously represented the who spent 25 years of her ary festival featuring a 2003 for his collection Nationalist and Unionist adult life in Ireland. stellar lineup of some of “Moy Sand and Gravel.” causes in British Parlia- All events will take the finest contemporary He was the poetry editor ment during the early place at the Harvard Irish writers and poets. at the New Yorker until 20th century. Club of Boston at 374 The word “bualadh” can last November. Pinsky, Bualadh Boston 2018 Commonwealth Ave. in be translated to mean one of America’s foremost will conclude with an the Back Bay. Tickets are “cheering,” or a “round of poets and critics, teaches event at 5 p.m. on Satur- free. Those interested in applause,” according to at Boston University. day featuring Irish fiction attending are encouraged various dictionaries. The festival will con- writers Mary Costello, au- to book tickets in advance The first event, on Fri- tinue on Saturday at 3 thor of 2014’s Irish Novel at eventbrite.com. day at 5 p.m., will feature p.m. with a conversation of the Year “Academy Photography by Image Photo Service • Weddings • Anniversaries • Banquets • Portraits • Reunions • Groups • Families • Special Occasions (617) 291-6609

Harry Brett • Margaret Brett Hastings

Concertina player Brenda Castles will be a new face The official photographers of the Boston Irish Reporter at this year’s “A St. Patrick’s Day Celtic Sojourn.” Irish Reporter Mar '18_Layout 1 1/23/18 3:36 PM Page 1

286 Cabot St. TheCabot.org Beverly 866-811-4111

Thursday, March 15, 8pm Geraghty A St. Patrick’s Day Celtic Sojourn ASSOCIATES with Brian O’Donovan Open The Door for Three, Keith Murphy, Maeve Gilchrist PROPERTY MANAGERS & Brenda Castles

May the leprechauns be near you,

To spread luck along your way.

And may all the Irish angels, Sponsored by Saturday, Smile upon you St. Patrick’s Day. March 24, 8pm Celtic Happy St. Patrick’s Day! Nights – Oceans of Hope Music! Dancing! Geraghty Associates, Inc. Singing! Theater! Property Managers P.O. Box 52, Readville, MA 02137-0052 The North Shore’s BEST Theatre Tel: 617-364-4000 Fax: 617-364-3157 for Live Music & Movies! Page 18 March 2018 BOSTON IRISH Reporter bostonirish.com ‘Victory at Arnot’ – where Mother Jones and her ‘pot-and-pan brigade won the day for the miners By Sean Smith Aversa has received na- ments’ combined sound Special to the BIR tional awards such as the resembled a train whistle. Irish-born Mary “Moth- Northridge Composition “And thinking of the train er” Jones, one of America’s Prize and fellowships from somehow got me thinking most famous labor ac- the MacDowell Colony, the of steel work, which in turn tivists, is the subject of I-Park Foundation, and got me thinking of coal, a production featuring the Virginia Center for and coal mining,” says Mother Jones and her adherents. Tony nominee Maureen the Creative Arts. Other Aversa, who joined the for her passionate, earthy pans, mops, and brooms, The opportunity to work Brennan, with a score by honors include the Brian Berklee faculty in 2016. style of oratory, with her and make a ruckus when with Brennan – a faculty Berklee College of Music M. Israel Prize from the This train of thought prominent Cork brogue. the replacement workers member of the Boston Con- faculty member Eleanor New York Federation led Aversa to look at coal She cultivated her “Moth- and mine mules drew servatory at Berklee – has Aversa, to be presented of Music Clubs, as well mining labor history, and er” image by wearing out- near. Jones, along with been another enjoyable this month at the Irish as awards and grants eventually to the tale of of-fashion black dresses the local union president, part of making “Victory Cultural Centre of New from ASCAP, the Queens Jones (1837-1930), a na- and referring to the male William Wilson – later to at Arnot,” says Aversa. England and at Berklee. Council on the Arts, and tive of Cork who along with workers she championed be the first US Secretary Brennan was nominated “Victory at Arnot” re- the American Composers her family fled the Great as her “boys.” But Jones of Labor – helped maintain for a Tony Award and won lates the story of how Forum. Her work has Famine to Canada, and differed from many other the solidarity among the a Theatre World Award Mother Jones and her been performed in the later the US. An organizer female activists of the era miners and their families, for her professional debut “pot-and-pan brigade” of United States and abroad, for the Knights of Labor by opposing women’s suf- and in February 1890, in the 1974 revival of women helped Pennsyl- including venues such as and the United Mine frage, stating her belief the company met their “Candide” on Broadway. vania miners in their ef- the Boston Conservatory, Workers, she was once that women’s involvement demands. In the midst of a She has also appeared on forts to seek safer working the Bowdoin International called “the most danger- in politics resulted in a raging snowstorm, a great Broadway in “Going Up,” conditions and a living Music Festival, June in ous woman in America.” neglect of motherhood celebration took place. “Knickerbocker Holiday,” wage. Brennan provides Buffalo, Symphony Space, One of her most famous and thus contributed to Researching and com- “Little Johnny Jones,” the narrative, occasion- and Tanglewood. feats was to organize a juvenile delinquency. posing “Victory at Arnot” and “Stardust” and toured ally assuming the voice of The inspiration for “Vic- children’s march in 1903 As Aversa points, out, proved to be an enlighten- nationally as Mabel in Jones or other key figures; tory at Arnot,” as Aversa from Philadelphia to the Jones’ activism was born ing experience for Aversa. New York Shakespeare Aversa’s accompanying describes it, is an example New York City home of personal tragedy. “She “Nowadays, we’ve come to Festival’s “The Pirates score is played by the sex- of free-association think- of President Theodore lost her husband [labor take for granted things like of Penzance” and has ap- tet What Is Noise, whose ing in action: Listening to Roosevelt, in protest of organizer George Jones] worker’s compensation, peared off Broadway in members play flute, clari- a piece she wrote for a flute lax enforcement of child and four children to yellow overtime pay, and so on, “Shakespeare’s Cabaret.” net, piano, violin, cello, choir, Aversa was struck labor laws. fever; and then four years but it was very, very dif- She was nominated for and percussion. by how much the instru- Jones was renowned after that, her home and ferent back in the time of Best Supporting Actress dress shop were destroyed Mother Jones. Reading the by the Independent Re- in the Great Chicago Fire history, I was so inspired viewers of New England of 1871. Most people would by her strength and deter- for her performance in wither from devastating mination, and that of Wil- “Mame.” Handmade since 1925 events like these, but liam Wilson – that’s why I “I was quite impressed she fought for things she included him in the piece, by Maureen’s stage pres- could change. She helped too – in helping improve ence, and so I was very rebuild Chicago, and then the lives of workers.” pleased that she liked the became a force for the labor Aversa says the music in text of the story I sent to movement.” “Arnot” is in the style of a her,” says Aversa. “Her In 1899, Jones went to film or opera score, with words will really comple- Arnot, Pa., to lend moral some themes recurring ment the music.” support to miners who throughout, such as “an “Victory Arnot” will be had been on strike for expression of the striving presented on March 15 at several months. Hearing and energy of the miners.” 7 p.m. in Berklee College’s that the mining com- As part of her research, Oliver Colvin Hall, 1140 pany was going to bring in Aversa also listened to Boylston Street [see berk- “scabs,” Jones assembled Irish and American folk lee.edu/events/victory-ar- an army of miners’ wives music, and incorporated not], and on March 16, 7:30 and other local women some of those elements p.m., at the Irish Cultural and told them to gather into the music, such as the Centre of New England near the mine with pots, victory dance at the end. [irishculture.org].

NPH USA’s 9th Annual Irish Hearts for Orphans Benefit Dance Sunday, April 15, 2018 3:00 - 7:00 p.m. Set Dancing 2:30 – 3:45 p.m. Suggested Donation: Boston Marriott Quincy $20 1000 Marriott Drive | Quincy, MA 02169

Featuring a grand prize raffle for two round-trip airline tickets to Ireland and $1,000 cash. Donated by Crystal Travel & Tours and Doc Walsh.

Silent Auction | Refreshments & Light Sandwiches | Cash Bar

Honorees Mayor Thomas P. Koch and Christine A. Koch From the hearts of the Irish Rev. Daniel J. Finn | Paul and Patricia Mikus to our brothers and sisters in need. Entertainment Comhaltas Ceoltoiri Eireann | Erin’s Melody Noel Henry’s Irish Showband Kenny Academy of Irish Dance

More information and tickets: 617.206.4940 | irishheartsfororphans.com bostonirish.com March 2018 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 19

CD Reviews relief by the impoverished Choctaw Nation – one of ca Set”) that the more improbable but profound bonds between begins with By Sean Smith America and Ireland. a flourish of The Jeremiahs, “The Femme Fatale of The best feature of the album is the excerpts of experimental Maine” • As the folk revival has gone on, there interviews with immigrants and their descendants, sounds, until has been a gradual proliferation, especially in more which grounds the artistic and dramatic content in a a fiddle slowly recent years, of bands that utilize the architecture folksy authenticity. And you’ll hear a few references and steadily of traditional music in presenting their original mu- to Boston and other Massachusetts communities, builds up a 4/4 sic – close to the tradition yet at a certain remove. which is hardly surprising but does underscore the rhythm, and The list is extensive, and would certainly be open to Bay State’s ties with Ireland. the trio is off argument (Kila? Enter the Haggis? LAU? RUNA?), Sure, sentimentality and pathos are readily found and running. but Dublin’s The Jeremiahs is a solid, and quite in “Tóraíocht Shonais,” but history isn’t supposed Other in- creative, entry. to be an entirely academic, dry-eyed affair. Byrne strumental Formerly a does an effective job of personalizing the thousands tracks include quartet, this upon millions of stories born of the journey from the a typically in- trio’s mark of Old World to the New. [helenabyrne.com] fectious Quebecois set (“Reel de Grandpere”), “The distinction be- Pete’s Posse, “The Conversation” • The Vermont Set” – three reels that underscore the New gins with lead “Pete” in question is Vermont’s Pete Sutherland, England/Celtic connection – and “Turlette Elec- vocalist Joe a mainstay in New England folk/traditional mu- trique,” anchored by a Cape Breton reel by Andrea Gibney, whose sic for decades, playing in bands like Woods Tea Baeton that is sandwiched between Scanlon’s “Silver voice has a Company, the Clayfoot Strutters, and Metamora. Bay” and Henderson’s “Turlette Electrique,” the Sean Tyrell- Sutherland was among a vanguard of musicians a latter a vocalization backed by Nicholas Williams’s like gravitas to few decades ago who pulled together the various flute. There are also some surprising turns, such it: an edge with strands of music traditions found in New England as on “The Bunny Tree” when Henderson lets fly a hint of por- – Irish, Scottish, Canadian maritime, Quebecois, with a jazzy-funky electric guitar solo. Arguably the tent (“The Wild Americana – and located them in a contemporary piece de resistance is “Stick Season Suite,” a nine- Barrow Road,” milieu: crossing genres sometimes within one song minute tapestry of tempos, tones, and instrument John Spillane’s or tune set, devising thoughtful, elaborate arrange- and vocal combinations. “Passage West” ments, and adding their own compositions, which While joviality is apparent throughout the album, or “The Plough and Stars”), but also a capacity for fit snugly into the mix. a couple of songs by Sutherland strike a more seri- tenderness, such as on “This Boy” or the title track. On “The Conversation,” Sutherland (fiddle, five- ous note: “Up and Blow Away” is a homespun but Complementing Gibney are James Ryan (guitar, string banjo, keyboards) and his “posse” of the past sincere reflection on mortality, while “The Sap Ain’t bouzouki, harmonica) and Jean-Christophe Morel four years, Oliver Scanlon (fiddle, mandolin, viola, Running” is a literal on-the-ground commentary (fiddle, bouzouki), as well as guest (or perhaps foot percussion) and Tristan Henderson (guitars, on the effect of climate change. “Don’t Let Me Go,” “auxiliary member” is more appropriate) Julien mandolin, bass, jaw harp, foot percussion), present another Sutherland piece, has a subtle pop dynamic Bruneteau on flute and whistle. this kaleidoscope of sounds and styles with equal to it, complete with a sweetly earnest three-part If Gibney provides the impetus, then Ryan, Morel parts amiability and energy. Kicking off the album harmony. “The Conversation” is a very eloquent and Bruneteau provide the continuity – Ryan with – their third – is a medley of Irish reels (“The Broc- piece of work indeed. [petespossevt.com] crisp rhythm, Morel and Bruneteau with their su- perbly delivered fills and breaks, as well as flat-out gorgeous harmonizing. The songs, most of which are written by the band, have a reticent charm and wisdom about them: “Wild Barrow Road” is a different take on the our-crazy-band-adventures theme, setting the frenzy of traveling alongside COME VISIT ANY the serenity and mystery of the landscape (“As we drive through this valley/we rise and we fall/like this tune with no top or no bottom at all”); “Femme Fatale of Maine” visits another familiar subject, temptation and ruination (“Every stage of a poor SOMERS PUBS man’s life/should at least inform the other/But a lady fair will leave men cold/and take all they can give her”), while “This Boy” juxtaposes an upbeat LOCATION FOR QUALITY FOOD, melody and tempo with the painful, inevitable re- alization of love gone wrong. Of a more iconoclastic nature, perhaps, is “Plough HOSPITALITY & LIVE MUSIC and Stars,” which the band’s liner notes describe as an “anti-rebel song” that, even as it touches on Ireland’s troubled history, endorses the modern 7 NIGHTS A WEEK! “put down the gun” mindset: “And come the morn- ing we’ll rise again/and break the chains from the plough and stars.” Ryan, Morel, and Bruneteau are at the forefront on the album’s three instrumental tracks, the best of which is “Croix-Rousse,” highlighted by a nifty, slow-building transition from leisurely to full-tilt pace, girded by Ryan’s fine guitar work. The concluding track, “Derry Gaol,” is not a band original – it was penned by Dublin singer-songwriter Alan Burke with Tim Potts – but fits very well into The Jeremiahs’ oeuvre: a jailhouse ballad along the lines of Jez Lowe’s more sardonic “Durham Gaol,” 77 Broad St. 11 Marshall St. expressing lamentation, solidarity, and defiance. Boston, MA 02109 Boston, MA 02108 Don’t be surprised if you hear the repeating riff by 25 Union St. 617.338.5656 617.367.0055 Morel and Bruneteau in your head long afterwards, Boston, MA 02108 mrdooleys.com greendragonboston.com along with some of the other words and music you’ll 617.742.2121 hear on this album. [thejeremiahs.ie] hennessysboston.com Helena Byrne, “Tóraíocht Shonais (Pursuit of Happiness)” • Byrne has pursued a multifaceted career as singer, songwriter, storyteller, and actress that includes appearances with James Taylor, Moya Brennan, and Bob Geldof, and numerous theatrical projects. This album builds on her previous effort “Scéal” – a collection of stories and reminiscences of Ireland – to recall and evoke the experience of Irish immigration to the US and Canada from the mid-19th century on, and the social, political, and economic impacts that resulted – both for the new arrivals and the lands they now called home. By- rne’s historical 33 Union St. 108 Blackstone St. 9 Depot Ct. narrative is Boston, MA 02108 Boston, MA 02109 Cohasset, MA 02025 mixed with tra- 617.263.7771 617.742.2090 781.383.3366 ditional songs paddyos.com durtynellysboston.com mrdooleyscohasset.com (including a nice medley of “Dowie Dens o f Y a r r o w ” and “Wayfar- ing Stranger” to compare and contrast Irish and American traditions) and her own compo- sitions. SOMERSPUBS.COM On the one hand, the ground here isn’t exactly unbroken: There are sections on the Great Famine, anti-Irish prejudice, “American wakes,” and JFK. But Byrne also touches on some fascinating side- bars, like the tragic story of Michael Considine, an Irish immigrant (and briefly a Boston resident) who penned that vivid remembrance of his native Clare, “Spancil Hill,” or the donation made to Irish famine Page 20 March 2018 BOSTON IRISH Reporter bostonirish.com Travelogue Enjoying Longueville House in Cork near Mallow; Elegance, comfort now; turbulence in the long ago By Ed Forry and worked the property BIR Publisher as a farm. “Even though Our ten-day motor tour it was a Georgian house, of the south coast of the decor was Victorian, Ireland last summer in- everything was brown and cluded two wonderful yellow and green. Oh god! days in County Cork, the They loved the house and ancestral county of my wanted to keep the house, mother’s family. Eleanor so I said I’ll do a bed and Toomey Forry’s father, breakfast- no business Timothy Toomey, was plan, nothing, just a very born in Macroom, and her kind bank manager” to mother, Norah (Downing), assist her in making the came to America from change. Skibbereen. I had been The early days as a B&B in Cork just once before, saw her making a light fully 25 years ago, but it breakfast for guests- tea, was only for a quick six- coffee, scones, full Irish hour drive through Kerry breakfasts- and later, she and Cork, with a brief stop says, she started high at Blarney Castle before tea, but “high tea was a returning to my hotel nightmare. So I decided to outside Limerick. do a leg of lamb- whether For this trip, we made they liked it or lumped it. arrangements through That went fine for a week Ireland’s Blue Book (.ire- or two and then somebody lands-blue-book.ie) to said they didn’t like lamb, spend two days and nights so then I said I’ll give you just outside Mallow, and Jane O’Callaghan first opened Longueville to a bed & breakfast, with a limited menu; today it’s a gour- salmon.” made day trips, including met attraction across Ireland’s south coast, She is pictured with the BIR’s Ed Forry & Della Costello. Just as the decade of a drive to the coastal town “Longueville’s beautiful O’Callaghan is a descen- family changed the name East side, you’ll find a fine the 1960s turned, Michael of Kinsale. view of the Blackwater dant of original own- of the estate to Longueville. Victorian conservatory of and Jane opened the doors We made our base at Valley belies a turbulent er Donough O’Callaghan. “ A r c h i t e c t u r a l l y curved ironwork added in to the public and Jane the Longueville House, history. The oldest sec- Donough fought beside Longueville is typically 1862, one of the last drawn launched The Presidents’ a listed stately Georgian tion of this house was the Catholics after the late Georgian, of five up by Richard Turner, the Restaurant at Longueville Country House just north built in 1720 by the Long- collapse of the 1641 Re- bays and three storeys greatest ironmaster and in the early 1970s. of Mallow town, and about field family, who always bellion and forfeited the over a basement. The designer of glasshouses of As the menu expanded, a 40-minute drive north maintained they were of land to Cromwell. At this central doorway retains the Victorian era. At the their reputation for excel- from Cork city. The tour French extraction and not time, when Richard Long- its original door and a rear of the main house lies lent food and fine dining book describes the prop- Cromwellians. Current field was created Baron large fanlight beneath a large double courtyard, became widespread. Most erty this way: day proprietor William Longueville in 1795, the a Doric portico. On the neo-classical in style, con- of the produce they served taining a number of fine was home grown. “My two-storey buildings; some husband was a farmer, ev- have been converted into erything came fresh from “With Good Will Doing Service” living quarters. Inside, the the garden.” Eventually, house is embellished with she decided to take two ornate Italian-designed weeks every November to ceilings, a marble dining- go on “working vacations,” room mantelpiece featur- learning from chefs in ing a relief of Neptune in London and Paris. his chariot, rare, inlaid The management of the mahogany doors, and an house has now passed to unusual, full-height bifur- the third generation, and cating staircase. it is now operated by her “Today, Longueville chef son William and his House is back in the hands wife Aisling.They met Founded in 1737 of the O’Callaghan clan when they attended hotel whose forebears were management school at originally deprived of it by the Dublin Institute of Cromwell in 1650. It was Technology (DIT) in the The President and Board of Directors of returned to the family in late 1980s. 1938, when the Longfields “William went off to sold the property to Sena- work in the UK and The Charitable Irish Society tor William O’Callaghan. France,” she said, “and I Then, in 1969, Michael go away for two weeks to O’Callaghan (son of the take a cordon bleu course.” Cordially Invite you to attend senator) and his wife Over the decades, Jane Jane opened Longueville’s has furnished the house with Irish wares acquired st doors to the public as a The 281 Anniversary Dinner simple bed & breakfast.” from around the country. Eschewing any guide- “I bought decorations books and roadmaps, we at auctions and antique used our IPhone Google- shops,” she says. “Have Saint Patrick’s Day, March 17, 2018 map app to find our way to you seen the basement? the northeast Cork town of Just come down with me Mallow. Driving through for a second.” She led us The response to “The Day We Celebrate” and Guest Speaker the town we soon found on a 15-minute tour that the entrance to the 500- revealed an extensive acre estate. A two-minute wine cellar and room after Hon. Michael John Ring, TD, drive through woods and room of function and stor- Minister for Rural and Community Development up a winding private road age space. led to the hill’s crest where A good sign of the qual- we found the late Georgian ity of the meals that comes building, which overlooks out of the Longueville *** the green valley. kitchen occurred on our Music and Entertainment by Laurel Martin, Mark Roberts, Once inside, we were second evening there, met by Jane O’Callaghan, when we were joined at Kathleen Guilday, and the family’s “queen bee,” the adjacent table by a a gracious and friendly group of three Irish sis- The Boston College Heightsmen woman who became our ters who were enjoying a *** hostess in the main dining “girl’s night out.” They had room and told us about come from their homes in Cocktail Reception at 6:00 PM; Dinner at 7:00 PM; Black Tie Optional the history of the estate different towns outside of during our stay. Herself Cork, they told us, just to a native of Limerick, Jane treat themselves to the Seaport Hotel, One Seaport Lane, Boston, MA 02210 said she had married Mi- delicious gourmet food chael in 1953 and moved and exquisite décor of the *** there. “When I moved Presidents’ Restaurant. Reservations Online – RSVP March 13, 2018 in here, my parent-in- It was something they laws were in here with do once or twice a year, www.charitableirishsociety.org my husband. They were they said. living in one side of the We agreed with their house and we were liv- judgment, and we certain- ing in the other side.” ly plan to visit with Jane Her then-new husband and her family again the was a farmer, she said, next time we’re in Cork. bostonirish.com March 2018 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 21

Bruce Durkey photo Longueville House: The Details It is elegantly situated in undulating parkland and The “piece de resistance” has to be the stunning tral staircase, generous and wide with a gradient is approached from the east by a curving avenue over south facing views of the Blackwater Valley. All bed- not too steep. Free Wifi is available throughout the an arched limestone bridge. The majestic group of oak rooms and suites are located on the first and second house although it has to be said some areas experi- trees on the front field of the house was planted in floor, taking complete advantage of the surrounding ence stronger signal than others due to location and 1815 to celebrate Wellington’s victory at the Battle sylvan setting. thickness of the walls - it is after all a 300-year-old of Waterloo. The estate also contains a 25-acre cider The rear of the house, with equally charming vistas, building. apple orchard used to produce on site an artisan cider, overlooks our Palladian Courtyard with Topiary Cen- Longueville is really about ‘switching off’ so all our some which is double distilled into an apple brandy. trepiece and Walled Garden to the side. Longueville bedrooms are free from the intrusion of televisions There are 20 sumptuous guest bedrooms and suites, House is all about relaxing and unwinding. You will though we do have a roving TV which can be set up all individually furnished and tastefully decorated in undoubtedly find yourself tuning into the calming in your bedroom by prior arrangement. Otherwise, the country house style. Every comfort is assured with sound of native songbird or bleating sheep outside guests are welcome to watch TV with other patrons fluffy cotton towels, luxury toiletries from The White your bedroom window. in the comfort of the Mount Hillary Room located on Company, fresh flowers, and lots of interesting books Longueville, a listed heritage house, does not have the ground floor. and glossies to read. an elevator. Access to guest bedrooms is via the cen- Source: Longuevillehouse.ie.

YOU DON’T HAVE TO RELY ON THE “LUCK OF THE IRISH” FOR GREAT HEALTH CARE Whether you are looking for a primary care physician, an orthopedist, or other specialist, Carney Hospital physicians offer exceptional care, right here in Dorchester. And with the shortest Emergency Room wait time in the area, we’re here for you not just on St. Patrick’s Day, but all the others days as well! Carney Hospital is proud to be recognized as a Top Hospital for Patient Safety and Quality for third time in the past four years. Carney Hospital is one of only 44 general hospitals received a Top Hospital designation for 2017 by The Leapfrog Group, an independent hospital watchdog organization. We thank our physicians, nurses and staff for providing world class care to our 2014, 2015, 2017 community with compassion and respect right where you live. To find a physician affiliated with Carney Hospital, visit carneyhospital.org/doctorfinder or call 1-800-488-5959

All of us at Carney Hospital wish you and your family a very happy and healthy St. Patrick’s Day!

www.carneyhospital.org Page 22 March 2018 BOSTON IRISH Reporter bostonirish.com Slainte!´ Happy St. Patrick’s Day to our friends and neighbors, from the MCCA.

DAVID M. GIBBONS EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

@MassConvention /MassConvention massconvention.com

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EIRE LÁ FHÉILE PÁDRAIG pub SONA DUIT! 795 Adams St. • Dorchester “President’s Choice” Have a festive, fun St. Patrick’s Day with Serving Lunch & Dinner friends and family – from all of us at Every day, Bank of Canton. 7 days a week

Excellence in Private Care Curtin Home Care, Inc. (CHC) is Boston, Massachusetts’ premiere private Home Care Agency. Our professional services are highly personalized and staffed by carefully selected and screened personnel. We employ a wide range of medical staff including RN’s, LPN’s, CNA’s and Therapists. All personnel are licensed/ certified as well as insured and bonded. In addition to Bos- ton, we provide services to surrounding cities and towns. Our priority is assisting individuals remain in their home in a safe and comfortable manner. Please call 617-307-7751 today for a complementary initial consultation.

Now Hiring Experienced RN’s, LPN’s and CNA’s. Please email resume to: [email protected] Member FDIC. Member DIF. 888.828.1690 www.CurtinHomeCare.com NMLS #408169. www.ibankcanton.com The 2018 IN/Boston St. Patrick’s Day Party is here at Fenway Park! Friday, March 16, 6:30 - 9:30 p.m. We are delighted to announce our Annual St. Patrick’s Day party, which is fast coming upon us! This much anticipated members- only event will be held on Friday, March 16th, at Fenway Park from 6:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. inside the fab State Street Pavilion! As always, there will be Irish music, dancing and cheer, special guests, and more! We will also host an open bar and hors d’oeuvres throughout the evening. Members are welcome to purchase one additional ticket for a guest.

If you are not a member, then sign-up before tickets sell out. About Irish Network Boston Irish Network Boston (IN Boston) is a business, cultural and social network with membership Become a member now encompassing Irish-born, Irish-Americans, and friends of Ireland in the Boston area – the capital irishnetworkboston.net/membership/ of Irish America. IN Boston is part of a national network in the United States of Irish networks from across the country under the Irish Network USA (IN USA) umbrella Page 24 March 2018 BOSTON IRISH Reporter bostonirish.com BRETT’S BOSTON By Harry Brett Exclusive photos of Boston Irish people & events

erry Burke, longtime owner of Doyle’s Cafe, hosted a Ggathering of members of the Éire Society of Boston on Sunday Feb 25. Calling the program “The Way it Was- Pols, Pals, Rogues, Ras- cals and Relatives,” Burke told the audience a number of stories about the legendary Boston Mayor James Michael Curley. The event was held in the Curley Room at the legendary Doyle’s establishment on Washing- ton Street in Jamaica Plain.

1.) The Sunday afternoon session of con- temporary American folk music at Doyle’s; 2.) Gerry Burke; 3.) John McGuire, Roslin- dale; 4.) Holly and John Mara, Concord; 5.) Gerry Burke shows off the Dorchester Rid- ing Clun Trophy won by Mayor Curley; 6.) Cate McGrail, Belmont, Mary Ann Burke, 1. Canton; 7.) Bill Smith West Roxbury, Bar- bara Fitzgerald, Milton; 8.) Judy and Em- mett Goggin, Jamaica Plain; 9.) Margaret Stapleton Scituate, Rose Anne Concannon, Sheila Gagnon, Marshfield; 10.) Sheila Ga- gnon, Edris Kelley, Marshfield, Ed Forry, Dorchester.

4. 5.

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9. 10. bostonirish.com March 2018 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 25 Traveling People You can’t beat March if you’re thinking of visiting Ireland By Judy Enright many other cities and towns Special to the BIR across the isle, including Gal- It’s that time of year again way City (parade on the 17th when Ireland and the Irish and charity cycle on the 18th), hop into the world’s limelight Cork City parade and events to celebrate St. Patrick and his (March 16-18), Limerick City special day. (parade March 17 and marching In March, everyone is Irish, band championship March 18 as you know, regardless of sur- with musicians from Ireland, name or heritage. Each of us Europe and America) and Done- shares equally in the good times, gal, with Ardara’s renowned the festivities, and the wondrous Walking Festival on March 17 fact that mid-month is almost and 18. This is just a sampling. April and that spring is nearly For more, check out Ireland. here! (The spring equinox, in com and plug in the area you’ll case you wonder, occurs this be visiting. year on March 20 at 12:15 p.m.) MOOREHALL THE GOOD SAINT We read recently that the In looking for some interest- Mayo County Council has pur- ing facts about St. Patrick, chased historic Moorehall near I found, in a 2008 edition of the village of Carnacon, and will Christianity Today, an article develop the property, house, that made me laugh. Ted Olsen courtyard, walled garden, and writes, “Tis the season for pa- 80 acres of the woodland estate rades, green beer, shamrocks, overlooking Lough Carra, in and articles talking about why collaboration with The National St. Patrick’s day isn’t all about Centuries of pilgrimages have carved a path up to a chapel at the top of Ireland’s holy moun- Parks and Wildlife Service of the parades, green beer, and sham- tain, Croagh Patrick in Co. Mayo. Judy Enright photos Department of Culture Heritage rocks.” Ted is correct in a way, and the Gaeltacht. and incorrect in another. Moorehall is the ancestral The parades and celebrations home of John Moore, the first are great fun, but I find Patrick’s president of the Republic of history a lot more interesting. Connaught. The history of the Was there really just one St. family and house is linked with Patrick or were there several? If Irish history and includes the there was only one, he was very 1798 French invasion, the Irish well traveled in an age without literary renaissance of the late cars or other modern modes of 19th and early 20th centuries transport. and the Civil War. Many of us already know quite The county council plans to a lot about Ireland’s patron develop the estate as a nature saint – real or mythical – from preserve and tourist attraction. reading about him, especially A master plan, to be written with if we’ve visited the St. Patrick input from the local community, Centre in Northern Ireland, will include development of a which boasts that it is the only recreational park, conservation place in the world solely dedi- measures, and restoration of the cated to him. For details, visit walled garden. saintpatrickcentre.com Moorehall is near Ballintub- Briefly, the Centre’s Patrick ber Abbey and the historic narrative begins in 405 A.D., market town of Ballinrobe. It’s when, as a 16-year-old native so nice to see historic Irish places of what is now Scotland, he was saved, restored, and opened to captured in a raid and taken to the public. pagan Ireland as a slave. He KNOCK AIRPORT eventually escaped, went home, Knock Airport (also known then returned in his 40s to deal Croagh Patrick in the background as you approach the holy mountain from Westport, Co. Mayo. as Ireland West Airport) is booming, having recorded its with those Irish heathens. that draws visitors from all over If you’re in the area, Croagh ebrating the country’s patron CROAGH PATRICK highest figures ever last year the world, many of whom come Patrick is well worth a visit, saint. as 750,000 passengers checked There are many other aspects to attempt the hefty climb to especially on a beautiful day From March 15-19 this year, of Patrick’s tale, but I especially in at its gates. The previous the top. I’ve actually never tried when you can enjoy the gorgeous the five-day St. Patrick’s Festi- highest number was in 2016, like his connection with Ire- to make it to the peak, which vista across Clew Bay. The val will brighten and enliven the land’s Holy Mountain, Croagh when 734,000 passengers were is about a two-hour hike from Croagh Patrick Visitor Center streets of the city. The Festival recorded. (pronounced “crow”) Patrick, the car park. I only climbed has a restaurant, coffee shop, annually attracts more than the 2,500-foot tall cone-shaped This airport is a real boon to as far as the large statue of and a great gift shop offering 100,000 foreign visitors who the west of Ireland and is cur- mountain in Murrisk, Co. Mayo, St. Patrick that was erected in many cards and locally made come to see thousands of per- near Westport. Legend has it rently served by three major in- 1928 by Rev. Father Patterson gifts. Climbing sticks are also formers. This year, more than ternational airlines, Aer Lingus, that it was on Croagh Patrick, with funds collected in America available there. 30 events are scheduled over or The Reek as it’s known lo- Flybe, and Ryanair. to rebuild Saint Mary’s Church And, if you’re in Mayo at the five days and nights, including Last year, the airport invested cally, that Patrick completed a in Westport. end of July, you might want music, dancing, storytelling, 40-day Lenten ritual of fasting 15 million euro in a project that The tradition of pilgrimage to to join other pilgrims for Reek and more. will result in new passenger and penance in 441 A.D. And, this holy mountain dates back Sunday, an annual hike up the “HOME, the exploration of my it was there, legend adds, that facilities, terminal upgrades, more than 5,000 years from mountain on the last Sunday home, your home, our home” is and infrastructural works he drove snakes out of Ireland. the Stone Age to the present of that month. Thousands par- the theme for this year’s festival For his part, Olsen writes in across the airport and runway. without interruption, and its ticipate in the climb and many and it has inspired an artistic Knock has flights to nine UK Christianity Today that “Pat- religious significance to the do the last part barefoot and on program that includes a film rick couldn’t have driven the airports as well as to continental pagans, when people gathered their knees as penance. commission project, street- and mainland Europe. Maybe snakes out of Ireland because there to celebrate the beginning There are lots of other fun theatre, talks, walks, spoken there were never any snakes someday they’ll offer flights to of the harvest season. Over the things to do in the Greater word, literature, music, Irish and from Logan! there to begin with.” It’s hard centuries, untold thousands Westport area, too. language, visual art, and more. to say if that’s true or not, but TRAVEL of visitors and pilgrims have DUBLIN It all sounds like great fun. Enjoy your trip to Ireland why ruin a great and enduring carved a trail into the side of the FESTIVITIES Of course there are St. Pat- legend with facts, right? whenever and wherever you mountain up to a small chapel Dublin pulls out all the stops rick’s Day festivities, parades go. This is a lovely time of year Croagh Patrick today is an at the summit. annually when it comes to cel- and assorted celebrations in immensely popular tourist site to visit. Where does St. Patrick lie at rest? By Peter F. Stevens to Northern Ireland, holds that grave was chosen by two oxen final resting place is that Ire- his death. The Ui Neill and BIR Staff Ireland’s patron saint reposes that were allowed to wander land’s clans reportedly fought the Oirghialla attempting to Even in death, mystery beneath a giant and ancient where they would, pulling a each other for the privilege of bring it to Armagh; the Ulta to shrouds St. Patrick. Myriad stone atop his grave near the cart bearing the body.” Vari- burying the saint on their own keep it with themselves…. The accounts of varying reliability south wall of Downpatrick ous scholars have speculated lands. The “Annals of the Four body of Patrick was afterwards claim that he died at Saul – Cathedral. Local religious his- that even if Patrick’s remains Masters” describe the legend- interred at Dun Da Lethglas the dates range from 461 A.D. torians assert that it’s close to rest elsewhere than the turf ary Cath Coirp Naomh Padraic [probably Downpatrick] with to 493 A.D. – and was buried 100 percent certain that Patrick of Downpatrick Cathedral, his – “the Battle for the Body of St. great honour and veneration.” close by at Downpatrick, Co. was laid to rest there, and the remains do lie within a two-mile Patrick” – allegedly erupting This account has elicited schol- Down. In other parts of Ireland, site has become something of a radius of Saul and the church. immediately after his death. arly skepticism, with numer- however, claims on Patrick’s pilgrimage for those who want Common belief or tradition The clans of Ireland began ous historians dismissing the final resting place surfaced to connect with, and honor, him. places the saint’s death on to bicker over who should “battle” as a myth added to soon after his demise. Typical It wasn’t until the 7th cen- March 17, 461, or so; some receive the honor of burying the Annals long after Patrick’s of these claims is an ancient tury, some 200 years after his historians say it was in 493. him on their land. To avoid death. Christian marker near Lough death, that the first biographies The Annals of Ulster relate this sacrilegious end to his life, So was the saint buried at Corrib, in Co. Mayo, where of Patrick appeared. In 807 that Patrick died “in the 120th the “Annals” relate, his friends Downpatrick? No one can say Latin crosses are carved deeply A.D. they were compiled in [or 122d] year of his age, in the secreted the body away after with complete certainty, but into the gray stone memorial; the “Book of Armagh” (now a 60th year after he had come to his death: “There was a rising the site – within a possible the spot is known simply as “St. prized part of the collections at Ireland to baptize the Irish.” of battle, and a cause of dissen- two-mile radius -- remains the Patrick’s Grave. Trinity College, Dublin). Ac- A major reason for the his- sion in the province contending likeliest spot. Tradition, as well as tourism cording to the tome, “Patrick’s torical fog swirling around his for the body of Patrick after Page 26 March 2018 BOSTON IRISH Reporter bostonirish.com About the 1968 fire at Blinstrub’s and my sweet deal By Dick Flavin Fifty years ago one of the sweetest deals that I – or anyone else, for that matter - ever had went up in flames. Liter- ally. On Feb. 7, 1968, the Boston Fire Depart- ment was summoned to the corner of West Broadway and D Street in South Boston. The response was rapid, but it was already too late. Blinstrub’s Vil- lage, the last of Bos- ton’s big-time nightclubs, was already engulfed in flames. It would be an overstatement to say that it burned to the ground because by the time the fire was out, its outer walls were still standing. Everything inside, however, was destroyed, only the charred shell remained. Blin- strub’s was history, out of business. For most Bostonians it marked the end of an era, a time when they could see famous entertainers like Nat King Cole, Sammy Da- vis, Jr., or Dianna Ross and the Supremes, in a relatively intimate set- ting for a relatively mod- erate price. For me, it meant the end of that sweet deal. The scene at Blinstrub’s in South Boston after the destructive fire on Feb. 7, 1968. Boston Fire Department photo I was lucky enough en nights a week, two that he made it look fresh money. And they didn’t in those days to know When word of the 1968 shows a night. I even and funny every single have to put up with any C h e s t e r B l i n s t r u b , fire first got around, there got to know the guy time. drunks who were sitting the nephew of Stanley were whispers that may- who ran the lights and I never did meet Du- ringside. Blinstrub, the club’s owner. be it was one of those would occasionally rante or any of the other Blinstrub’s was kept Chester was a bartender in deals that happened “ac- watch from his booth, which stars who played Blin- afloat largely through the cocktail lounge that was cidentally on purpose,” hung from the ceiling high nies. They never came the banquet business. located just outside you know, for the in- above the stage. All for fifty around the lounge area; but It was a barn of a place the showroom. A cou- surance money. That cents a beer. the opening acts, often wiz- with a seating capac- ple of other guys and I might have been plau- I came to appreciate ened old comedians who had ity of 1,700, which made would show up at the sible except for the fact the talent of the great bounced around the cir- it ideal for big charity lounge, order a beer that the place had no performers and how cuit for years – some fund-raisers – with a from Chester, and when insurance on it. It was they paced their acts, of them had even been floor show to top it off. we heard Michael Gay- a total loss. never, for example, on Ed Sullivan a few Stanley Blinstrub had lord’s orchestra (the Yes, it was the end placing two slow bal- times – would often be at become close to Cardinal house band) strike up of a sweet deal for me, lads back to back – they the bar between shows for Richard J. Cushing, who the music, we’d quiet- but it was a deal that were always separated a scotch, or three. was a prince of the Ro- ly slip into the show- was running out anyway. by an up-tempo crowd The truth is that even man Catholic Church and room through a side door When I started going there Dick Flavin: Dealmaker pleaser. Durante’s act then Blinstrub’s was an in those days the undis- while Chester pretended to I was in my early twenties, would build to his break- anachronism, the last puted king of Boston. He as a guy who hung look the other way. We’d find fresh out of college, working ing up the piano in of a dying breed. The threw a lot of busi- around bars every night. an empty table and watch unhappily in the real mock frustration and n i g h t c l u b b u s i n e s s , ness Stanley’s way. If Plus, the bar scene – whoever was perform- estate and insurance tossing its various parts save for places like Las you belonged to a par- even in the lounge at Blin- ing that night for the business. By the time around the stage. It ap- Vegas, was all but ex- ish anywhere in greater nies – was getting old. I price of the beer we’d the fire struck I had the peared to be absolute tinct. Costs were out of Boston back then, and went there less and less bought at the lounge beginnings of a career mayhem, totally out control. It was getting that parish had a big often. bar, which in those going. I had already of control – until you more and more expen- affair, such as an an- But as I stood next to days was fifty cents, built a bit of a reputa- watched him do the sive to hire the big acts. niversary, chances are the mayor that morn- as I remember. I’d say tion as a speechwriter same thing in the second Plus, those acts were that the time was held in ing on the sidewalk that was pretty sweet, for politicians. Kevin show, and every show for discovering that they Blinstrub’s. I remember of West Broadway in wouldn’t you? White had been mayor as long as the engagement could play an arena or one big dinner that the South Boston watch- On weeks when par- of Boston for only five lasted. Then you real- even an outdoor stadi- cardinal held there, I think ing Blinstrub’s Village ticularly strong acts were weeks and I was his ized that he’d been doing um for a show or two for Catholic Charities, burn down, I couldn’t playing - say, Sammy press secretary. It meant variations of that for more on a weekend rather than and the show’s headliner help but think that it Davis, Jr., or Jimmy working long hours than 40 years. It was a two shows a night ev- was the Jewish comedian, was great while it lasted. Durante – I would be and many nights. I was carefully choreographed ery night of the week Myron Cohen. He was an Fifty years later I still in Blinnies’s, as we still a bachelor but I bit – and his genius was and make far more ecumenical smash hit. think that it was. called the place, sev- didn’t want to be known

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