For Childsplay, It's All in the Family

Home , Gerald Boland, Inishbiggle, Kevin Dundon, McGann, The Wombles, Thomas Cass (colonel)

July 2009 VOL. 20 #7 $1.50 Boston’s hometown journal of Irish culture.

Worldwide at

The Childsplay ensemble in concert. Bob Childs is at the extreme right in the photo. Story Page 14. Photo by Arthur Ferguson RIP, Two Stalwarts Adams on Irish Unification: It’s a ‘Realizable’ Objective Sinn Fein’s first of Bay State Life American conference From his ordination took place last month in in Rome in 1960 to his New York, and it opened last breath on June 14, with Gerry Adams, the Monsignor Thomas J. party’s president, saying: “I believe the po- McDonnell had but one litical and economic dy- goal: He wanted to be namics in Ireland today remembered as a “par- make a united Ireland a ish priest.” Father Tom realizable and realistic attained that goal and objective in a reasonable along the way offered his He never strayed from the period of time.” In an interview conducted after the talents in other venues conference concluded, Adams told the Boston Irish working-class neighbor- – teacher, columnist, hood roots that nurtured Reporter that with peace and political stability now him in his growing up years and tireless advocate a reality in Northern Ireland, the time was right to in St. Angela’s Parish in for children with special open an ambitious new chapter. “Having got it to Mattapan. needs, the poor, and the the point it’s at, we now move on to the next natural hungry. part of the journey.” See Page 11. Robert Connolly report, Page 4.

*** Dave Burke was the Chasing Votes, leading voice in the Hi- bernian community in Michele O’Connor, And Menino Boston City Councillor Lawrence, and he was Michael Flaherty is re- more than that. When it VP with a Vision “Between Hollywood, Facebook, and everything lentless in his pursuit of came to lending a helping else, the family core is decaying. BC High, like few voters’ favors as he chal- hand to those in need, His credo was the notion other schools in New England, can cut through all that; lenges incumbent Mayor he wished he had more that through daily effort it can offer students hope for the future, a far better Thomas M. Menino. The one man could make a than two. In the words sense of right and wrong, and a clear understanding BIR’s Carol Beggy spent difference for good in this of an admirer, “Dave just world. His life of giving of social justice.” A profile of the vice president for some time with the can- did it.” advancement at BC High is on Page 6. didate and her report is was a testament to that See Page 11. belief. Photo by Greg O’Brien. on Page 10. Page July 2009 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com Boston Irish Reporter’s Here & There

Loyalists Finally Begin Disarming entrenched old boy network that was Local Irish elections unseated a number This 10-inch-high wee bear with his – After months of delays and outright backstopped by the twin forces of the of city, town, and county councillors “cute-as-can-be button eyes and the resistance to pleas from the British Catholic Church and the de Valera gov- who will benefit from a generous lump adorable little black nose” is “favorably government, two of the more notorious ernment. The evil legacy, years too late, is sum “retirement gratuity” from a pot of priced” (their words) at only $69 plus loyalist paramilitary groups have finally finally being addressed, but the toll over $8 million. Individual payments range $7.80 shipping. There’s more turgid begun decommissioning their weapons. the long years has been horrific. from $5,000 to $60,000 each. … The Irish advertising copy but what lingers for The Ulster Volunteer Force (UVF) and Commencement Clip – John are not traveling as much these days to this mail recipient is the “green floppy the Ulster Defense Association (UDA) Patrick Shanley, the Bronx-born North America and one reason could hat with its shamrock shape that says have been threatened with a variety of playwright and author of the Pulitzer be that the best deals by Aer Lingus it all: “Kiss me, I’m Irish.” Originality is sanctions by London but many members Prize-winning “Doubt” as well as the are offered for flights originating in the obviously not Job One at Danbury. of the outlawed director of the last year’s film version United States, with higher fares for the This is an ugly little bear made of groups pointed with Meryl Streep, had the following to Irish flying outbound. … An alleged spy “plush material” (again their words, to the resur- say as the recent commencement speaker for Cuba who was a 30-year veteran of whatever it means)) that could be repli- gent threat at Mt. St. Vincent College in Riverdale, State Department intelligence opera- cated (sans hat, sweater, and imitation and attacks New York: tions was reputedly upset that he didn’t Claddagh jewelry, etc.), it says here, for by breakaway “Not to bring up something upsetting, get to succeed Mitchell Reiss in 2003 a fraction of the advertised price. If you r e p u b l i c a n s but when you leave here today, you may as the White House envoy to Northern are of a mind to celebrate your Irishness, as a rationale go through a period of unemployment. Ireland How bizarro is that! … Ireland’s have a pint or better donate to Concern for holding on My suggestion is this: Enjoy the unem- dueling national political parties, Fianna or another Irish charity working to save to their arms. ployment. Have a second cup of coffee. Fail and Fine Gael, are at each other’s some kids in the Third World. Give That impasse Go to the park. Read Walt Whitman. throats in Dublin’s Leinster House, but Danny Boy a pass. has apparently Walt Whitman loved being unemployed. the two have joined in a pact to control Live & Let Live – I must admit that been resolved, I don’t believe he ever did a day’s work in local politics for the next few years in I heard the news with mixed emotions. or at least his life. As you may know, he was a poet. Galway City. … The Fianna Fail coali- Inch Beach in seaside Kerry; Inch eased. If a lot of time goes by and you continue to tion government survived a Dail vote of Strand, where Ryan’s Daughter cavorted Bill O’Donnell be unemployed, you may want to consider confidence by just six votes last month with her British soldier in the 1970 The Provi- announcing to all appropriate parties and it would surprise the Irish political David Lean movie; Inch Beach, where sional IRA completed decommissioning that you have become a poet.” world if the present ruling coalition lasts one can sit outside sipping a Guinness all its arms in 2005. The British have Sinn Fein Hosts US Unity Con- beyond the spring of 2010 following the above and hear the children’s laughter allowed the loyalists groups to defer the ferences – The first of two Sinn Fein party’s embarrassment in the recent over the roar of the waves. Inch Strand, annual deadline for decommissioning scheduled U.S. conferences on Irish local elections. where my cousin Dan, God rest him, from each year since 2000. Unity took place in New York in mid- Sports Quiz – The following three a few miles up the road in Castlemaine Early unconfirmed reports are claim- June with party president Gerry Adams men in a major American sport distin- took us to show off what he considered ing that Canadian General John de and others speaking. A second conclave guished themselves in a special way. the best of County Kerry. Chastelain and independent monitors is set for late June in San Francisco. What was the achievement that allowed Now I learn that the Irish Naturist were on hand to witness the decommis- The New York meeting was described as Mickey Welch, Tim Keefe, and Pud Association (INA) has repeated its call sioning, but there has been, at press time, “communicating a new phase of activism Galvin to join a rarified list of only 21 for a “clothing optional” beach facility at no official confirmation and General de in the USA.” Or as Gerry Adams labeled other players who accomplished this feat Inch Strand. According to the naturist, Chastelain has issued no statement. it, “the beginning of a new phase of our in the history of their sport? (Answer near or nudist, group, Inch has been used Clouding the loyalist move to comply struggle.” the end of the column) informally for years by its members. Now with the decommissioning order are In 2010 the Irish Unity conferences will Irish Mourn Air France Loss – They the INA is seeking official permission. rumors that a deal has been struck travel across the Irish Sea to England, came from County Down in the North Association president Pat Gallagher, between them and the British govern- Scotland, and Wales in an effort to get the and Tipperary in the Irish midlands and pushing the same buttons every housing ment to allocate “development and job Irish there and likely pro-nationalist al- cosmopolitan Dublin. The three met at development impresario uses in Ireland creation” funds (up to $15 million) to lies on board the drive for Irish unity. Trinity, became friends, and graduated these day, talks about a naturist area at deprived unionist areas. While there was some talk following together from medical school in 2007. Inch that could be “worth a fortune” to The Irish Independent newspaper the Good Friday Agreement that the They were not yet 30 but each was trained the local economy. Gallagher also tells reported the stunning news on June 100th anniversary of the 1916 Easter and prepared for a life of service and a the unanointed like myself that several 21 that Martin McAleese, husband of Rising in 2016 would make an ideal sharing of their healing skills The loss Kerry beaches are already being used for Irish President Mary McAleese, has time to achieve a truly united 32-county of those three bright, vital, committed, “natural sunbathing.” Our Mr. Gallagher used his considerable rapport with the Ireland, there has been some backtrack- and confident young women was for the talks about not using central Inch beach leadership of at least one loyalist para- ing on that suggested timeline. In any people of Ireland and those who saw their but maybe a thousand yards away from military group to help broker an unof- event, the Sinn Fein outreach serves the pictures in the Irish papers the face of where the general public swims. A sign ficial deal that could produce financial party interests in several ways. It keeps instant heartbreak. The mid-Atlantic or two would do the trick, he says. incentives, as noted above, following the faithful energized, helps enrich Sinn crash of Air France Flight 447 that cost Maybe he’s right, maybe he’s not. Is tangible moves to place UVF and UDA Fein’s treasury ,and continues to elevate 228 lives in as yet unexplained freakish it what the locals want? I don’t know. weapons “beyond use.” the party’s public profile, especially fol- accident took away Aisling Butler, Tough call. Not everyone is convinced that the lowing the lackluster performance in the Jane Deasy, and Eithne Walls. We From Fenway to Merrion Square loyalists are acting in good faith but Republic by Adams and Company in the grieve for them. Forever young and – You’ve seen their sign at Fenway Park, others, like Sinn Fein’s Stormont junior recent election. together, and their fellow passengers. Covidien, an offshoot of the Tyco Corpora- minister Gerry Kelly, have supported Did You Know … that Guglielmo All equal in death’s embrace. tion in its heyday. Covidien is a hugely the claims, saying “It’s a great move Marconi, the son of an Irish mother I know it will probably be a while more successful healthcare company that forward. There have been a number of and an Italian father, established three before I stop seeing those faces. employs 41,000 people in 59 countries. It false starts; there is some indication that wireless telegraph stations in Ireland in Update on UM ‘Cities’ Conference has local offices in Mansfield, Mass. which this is the real thing.” the early days of the 20th century? The – The good folks at Padraig O’Malley’s only partly explains the strong links be- Boys Town Founder Warned Irish experimental sites were in Clifden, Bally- office at the McCormack Graduate School tween this highly profitable ($10 billion On Abuse – While reverberations from bunion, and Letterfrack. In March 1919, of Policy Studies at Umass-Boston report in revenue in 2008) corporation and our the recently released Ryan Report on the first telephone transmission was a huge success at their spring conference. Red Sox. The good news is that Covidien child abuse in Catholic schools and made between Europe and America by The delegates to the Forum for Cities in has completed the transfer of its corporate institutions continues roiling the Irish Marconi. In 1909 Marconi was awarded Transition agreed to a number of col- home from Bermuda to Ireland, where it people, a new revelation has surfaced the Nobel Prize for Physics, sharing it laborative projects and have initiated already has four factories and where it detailing warnings to the Irish Church with Karl Braun of Germany. plans to meet yearly to pursue mutually has operated for nearly 30 years. IDS and from Nebraska back in 1946: Boys Town RANDOM JOTTINGS agreed goals. the Irish government have to consider founder Father Edward Flanagan Ireland’S Office of Tobacco Control is A stunning outcome of the forum in Covidien incorporating in Ireland as a called the situation of child abuse in reporting that 97 percent of Ireland’s Boston is the agreement of the leaders coup, a source of welcome good news in Ireland “a disgrace to the nation.” workplaces are fully compliant with the of the divided city of Mitrovica, with today’s scary global economic climate. Father Flanagan, the Roscommon- tobacco ban introduced five years ago. Serbs in the north and Albanians in the The CEO, president, and chairman born Catholic priest who founded the … Ailing U.S. Senate patriarch Ted south, to jointly host as a “united city” of Covidien, Richard Meelia likes the famed Nebraska landmark Boys Town in Kennedy has recorded a 30-second next year’s Forum for Cities in Transi- move: “Ireland has a stable business, 1921, became a world renowned author- television commercial for his old pal, tion following up on this year’s success legal, and regulatory environment, and ity on children and their rehabilitation Connecticut Sen. Chris Dodd, who is at the McCormack School. enjoys strong relationships as a member and visited a number of countries as a hurting in the polls at home over his The university has indicated its sup- of the European Union.” guest lecturer. In 1946, near the end of his financial dealings. Loyalty runs deep in port of the forums and its recognition of Quiz Answer: The three baseball life, he visited his native Ireland where the Kennedy clan. … There will be a gay the success of the 2009 conference orga- pitchers all won 300 games or more in he toured Irish reform schools and other civil union bill in Ireland enacted before nized by Professor O’Malley by awarding the major leagues with Welch posting facilities for troubled young people. His the end of this year, despite gay objec- its prestigious Chancellor’s Medal to 307, Keefe 342, and Galvin 365. Only 24 horrified reaction was immediate and tions that it doesn’t go far enough. … A the leaders of the two delegations from pitchers have 300 victories or more. scathing. He called the schools “a scan- new national wax museum has opened in Mitrovica, Sadri Ferati and Dragan A Huge Loss – Dave Burke of Law- dal, un-Christ-like, and wrong.” While Dublin’s Bank of Ireland Arts Centre on Spasojevic. Previous recipients include rence died on May 27, just as he lived: he had the support of many in Ireland, College Green, replacing an earlier ver- Queen Silvia of Sweden, Senator Ken- with courage, a ready helping hand for including Maude Gonne MacBride, sion that closed in 2005. … Irish banks nedy, and Bay State Governor Deval others, a smile and a quip and no whine Father Flanagan had neither the sup- having enough problems getting back on Patrick. or whys, always looking ahead to his port of the Irish Catholic Church nor their feet after years of prolificacy are Teddy Bear Alert – The ever reliable next project. Dave was someone I looked of the government of the day. Justice now faced with trying to persuade their Danbury Mint in Norwalk, Connecticut, up to. No false moves, no make believe, Minister Gerald Boland, one of many senior bank officials to repay hundreds has another Irish special and off past just Dave. He was a mensch, a doer, a critics of Father Flanagan within the of millions in overdue, semi-legal loans. performance it won’t disappoint what I persistent buzz-saw of volunteer spirit. Irish establishment, was dismissive, … Former Northern Ireland Secretary call the Kinkade Korps. The faithful who There wasn’t anything he couldn’t do saying he was “not disposed to take any of State Mo Mowlam, who lived with buy this ethnic pandering junk, mesmer- if the cause was right and he put his notice of what Monsignor Flanagan said a brain tumor during her courageous ized into paying top dollar for over-hyped mind to it. while he was in this country, because battle in the search for peace in Ireland, schlock, have another opportunity to I was proud to count Dave as a friend, his statements were so exaggerated I will be the subject of a so-called Bio-Pic indulge themselves. This time around it’s but it was more than that. I was a 25- do not think people would attach any television movie set to be aired early “Danny Boy, The Irish Bear,” described year certified admirer of this wonderful, importance to them.” next year starring British actress Julie by Danbury as the Mint’s very first Irish generous, charitable, and committed It may be a harsh assessment some six Walters. … All the House Democrats in bear, “a special ambassador who brings man. Dave was New England’s finest. His decades after Father Flanagan’s initial the Massachusetts Legislature either Irish luck year ’round.” The good people concern for others, his enormous heart criticism of Ireland’s reform schools and voted for Sal DiMasi or voted present at the Danbury have even gone to the and his unflagging support for Ireland similar institutions, but the lengthy in the January vote for speaker except expense of handsomely embroidering and the cause of justice there constitute history of punishment and abuse that Billerica representative and veteran the “famed Danbury Mint logo to the a legacy that few, if any, of his contem- endured into the 1990s was a direct result town official William Greene, who bottom of his furry right paw.” Be still poraries can hope to match. of the complacency and smugness and stood alone. He voted for himself. … my heart! Thanks, Dave! Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com July 2009 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page Around Town: The Irish Beat / Carol Beggy

When it came time to celebrate her retirement after 29 years in the Cambridge Public Schools, Barbara Boyle decided she would eschew the white linen fetes commonly planned and opt for a night at an area Irish pub. That lead to a packed house at the Thirsty Scholar Pub on Beacon Street in Somerville on a June Saturday night for an old-fashioned Irish craic complete with music and stories and a few toasts. There’s just one thing about the scene: the elementary school principal “became” Irish when she married Gerard Boyle. “People have always just assumed I was Irish. It’s all in the name, I guess,” Boyle told us from her office at the Graham & Parks School. (Her last day is July 15.) “I’m Italian and have gotten a kick out of it when people think I’m Irish. My husband and kids are proud of their Irish heritage, which is great except, I can cook.” If you paid close attention to the events at owner/proprietor Patrick Cross’s Thirsty Scholar it certainly Actors Roy Greene and Chuck Slavin on the set looked like a large Irish family had gathered to celebrate of “The Lightkeepers” in May 2009 being shot on a retirement, with a few telltale signs to the contrary. Chuck Slavin and David J. Garfield in costume at Cape Cod. First, were the Italian cookies. And there was a lot of the Burlington Mall to film “Paul Blart: Mall Cop.” Frank Sinatra being played. Boyle, a Winchester resident, said she has come to like to admit sometimes,” hopes his background might appreciate the Irish culture -- OK, other than the cuisine help get him cast on “Black Mass,” about Boston’s Irish -- and laughs when she thinks about how many people mob, or “The Fighter,” about the life of Lowell boxing in Cambridge just took for granted that she was Irish. champ “Irish” Micky Ward that is slated to star Mark “There’s a lot to be proud of for my husband’s fam- Wahlberg and Christian Bale. ily,” she said of her in-laws who lived in Charlestown Slavin grew up in Pembroke and like so many oth- before moving to Belmont. “I’m proud of being Italian, ers from the region, went to Los Angeles to make his of course. But it hasn’t been a bad thing to be Irish all way in showbiz. While out in Tinseltown, he got work, these years, too.” exactly one paying real acting job -- pushing a gurney in a scene for “Six Feet Under.” Slavin returned home All four of Boston tie designer Anthony Corey’s dejected and decided to pursue acting in Boston. His grandparents were Irish and much of his extended timing couldn’t have been better. Just as he returned, family, which settled pri- the state implemented and then sweetened a tax incen- marily in the Boston area, tive program to lure film and television projects to the claim some connection to area and he landed work on “The Departed,” “Mystic Ireland, but Corey finds River,” “The Game Plan,” “Paul Blart: Mall Cop,” “Pink he has a lot of explain- Panther II,” “The Lightkeepers,” “The Lonely Maiden,” ing to do. “I don’t know and “Ghosts of Girlfriends Past.” The irony of his per- Chuck Slavin with fellow actors Laura Corda, JP if it’s my dark hair... sonal story isn’t lost on Slavin. Ouellette at a red carpet screening in Boston. my long straight nose or “I went to LA to make it and now I’m working more that I’m a Tony,” Corey than I ever did just by coming home. The people in LA Anthony Kennedy Shriver in 1989 to help enhance said, “but people think think that’s the center of the universe, but we’re doing the lives of people with intellectual difficulties. This I’m Italian. And I’m 100 all right here.” year’s Challenge also included a stop at Plymouth Rock percent Irish-American.” Studios the night before the race at which Brady showed Not that he hasn’t turned Regardless of whatever his commitments are on or up in a limo with his Best Buddy, Katie Meade. Brady the misunderstanding to off the field, Patriots quarterbackTom Brady always is shown in a nearby photo on race day and with him manages to get to Hyannis Port for the Best Buddies are Jim Brett, co-chair of the Celebrity Chef Challenge, Anthony Corey his advantage -- Mayor Menino is a big fan of Bike Challenge each June. Best Buddies was founded by and Peg Brett McCobb of Weymouth. Corey’s neckties. “The mayor knows I’m Irish, but if other people mistake it, what do I care?” What, indeed. In addition to having his ties sold in the best stores and worn around the neck of many no- tables, Corey is active in Boston’s philanthropic social set and is an accomplished horseman who has competed nationally. Since moving to the Back Bay about five years ago, he rides and competes less, but he’s still an equestrian and regularly joins in fox hunts at Myopia in South Hamilton. In addition to designing ties, Corey also does interior design work and has been working on a Boston-based lifestyle TV show that is slated to air this fall. “I love when work can be creative. That’s when I’m enjoying myself, when I have a project that challenges me,” he said.

If there were an Academy Award for background actors -- that’s a step up from a mere extra, thank you -- then Chuck Slavin would be a shoo-in for a nomination. Arrive at any set of a film being shot in the region and it’s almost a certainty that you’ll see Slavin somewhere waiting for his shot at getting some screen time, a line or two, perhaps, or just making another connection. A Weymouth resident, Slavin has taken on being the Pied Piper of those who work behind the scenes in the region’s burgeoning film community. He runs a Facebook page called “New England Talent & Crew” that sends out weekly updates on jobs open, acting, and crew opportunities, and what other projects local artists have going. “It just kind of took off,” Slavin told us from the set of “Valediction,” a movie starring Eliza Dushku and Ben Barnes. (Slavin was working as a stand-in -- that’s a step up from mere background player, thank you -- for Barnes.) Slavin’s also working on an internet radio show with Two men from then Balkans were honored at the UMass-Boston Convocation ceremony in May with the Chris Palermo called “Mass Movie Mavens” that’s cur- presentation of the Chancellor’s Medal for Peace and Reconciliation, given to those who enhance the rently being shopped to stations in the region. Palermo notion of community, from local to global. From left above, Sadri Ferati, minister of local government called Slavin “the mayor of background actors,” which administration for the Republic of Kosovo; UMass-Boston Professor Padraig O’Malley, who welcomed the seems an apt description. awardees to his Forum for Cities in Transition in April; J. Keith Motley, Chancellor of UMass-Boston; and The aspiring mogul, who says he’s “more Irish than I’d Dragan Spasojevic, president of the Citizens Movement for Kosovska Mitrovica, Republic of Serbia. Boston Irish Reporter’s Calendar If your club or organization has an item or event for the Boston Irish Reporter calendar, send the necessary details to [email protected] and please include a daytime contact name and telephone number.

July 8-12 – Sail Boston 2009. The Tall Ships come to Football and Hurling Demonstrations, Traditional Irish Bob Reynolds, 6 Hinckley Lane, Nantucket. Boston for a five-day harbor festival. The Irish Naval Music, Face Painting, and good old fashioned baseball July 29 – The American Ireland Fund, Young Lead- ship L. E, Eithne returns to Boston and will be berthed as the Rox take on the American Defenders of New ers Summer Social. McGreevy’s Boston Irish Pub. during the visit at Pier 4 in the former Charlestown Hampshire. Tickets $8, call 781-821-8291. Aug. 4 – Van Morrison appears in concert, Wang Navy Yard, near the USS Constitution. July 25 – 7th annual Blackstone Valley Celtic Fes- Theatre Boston, 8 p.m., 617-482-9393. July 25 – Irish Cultural Centre of New England hosts tival, Webster, MA, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. 800-841-0919 , Aug. 21 – Irish fiddler Eileen Ivers & Immigrant a “Night of Irish Culture” at the Brockton Rox baseball blackstonevalleycelticfestival.com. Soul perform in concert, Lowell Summer Music Series. game, Brockton. Event begins at 5 p.m., baseball game July 25 – The American Ireland Fund annual Nan- 7:30 p.m. 978-970-5200, lowellsummermusic.org. starts at 6:05 p.m. Features: Irish Step dancing, Gaelic tucket Celebration, 6-8 p.m., at the home of Laura and Page July 2009 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com Publisher’s Notebook Commentary Adams Calls Irish Unification ‘Realizable, Realistic Objective’ Sees Growing Sense of Irishness in North

By Robert P. Connolly plateaued at about 42 percent, according to conference Special to the BIR presenter Brendan O’Leary, which would mean that NEW YORK – With three decades of struggle behind some number of unionists would have to change their them, it must be said that Gerry Adams and his repub- stripes and vote for unification if Ireland were to come lican supporters are patient together anytime soon. and methodical. O’Leary, a professor of political science at the Uni- And very tactical. versity of Pennsylvania, said it would be much better The fruits of their patience if Irish unification were to occur by “consensus” in the and tactics are now on display North, as opposed to happening as a result of a “50 A Welcome Back in Northern Ireland, where percent plus one” vote. peace has replaced violence O’Leary, an expert on Ireland and on ethnic division, and where Adams’s republi- said he saw “nothing inevitable” about Irish unification, To the LE Eithne can party, Sinn Fein, jointly but, by the same token, he doesn’t believe that there leads Belfast’s power-sharing is an inevitability to the preservation of the United By Ed Forry Kingdom, given the potential for the departure of As the Tall Ships sail into Boston Harbor this month, government. the Irish have an extra reason to smile: among the Having achieved many of Scotland or Northern Ireland. visiting ships will be the Ireland Naval Service patrol their short-term objectives, Adams, in an interview, said a close vote in the North ship LÉ Eithne, the flagship of Ireland’s navy. and understanding that po- would still be a vote for unification, but acknowledged Robert P. litical parties can never sit that, “Unionists have to have ownership. They have It will be the third visit to our town for the ship, Connolly which was here in 1986 and again in 2000. This year, still, Adams and his Sinn Fein to have a sense that this is their Ireland, this is their during the Sail Boston festivities July 8-13, she will be cohort have now decided to put society, that it reflects their concerns.” berthed at Pier 4 at the Charlestown Navy Yard. While their largest and holiest goal, Irish unification, on the To that end, republicans and nationalists in the in town, the ship will be open to the public. front burner. North need to reach out to unionists and make the case During the 2000 visit, the crew of LÉ Eithne found And they are doing so in a way that is patient, me- for unification. Adams said he believes that Northern “a home away from home” in Boston. The Irish sailors thodical, and tactical. Ireland is changing in a way that makes this conversa- found plenty of time for shore leave, and were widely The opening of this new chapter has begun with a tion more plausible. welcomed at Irish pubs and other venues throughout trans-Atlantic listening tour that will see Adams and “Today, you see these thousands, tens of thousands the city. Sinn Fein holding unification conferences in the United of little acts of neighborliness and engagement between “The reception on shore is fantastic. It’s like being States, Canada, England, Scotland, and Australia. people, as part of a whole healing and getting to know at home,” Lt. Mick Kennelly told Boston.com that year. The party’s first American conference took place each other process. I just think it’s that which will build “This is a trip of a lifetime. We last month in New York, and opened with Adams, the a movement back home. Just people being more com- don’t get to come to America president of Sinn Fein, saying: “I believe the politi- fortable with each other. A sense of all of that. It can’t often,” petty officer Michael cal and economic dynamics in Ireland today make a be left to the politicians; it’s too serious an issue.” Hickey told the website. united Ireland a realizable and realistic objective in a Adams also said that he sees a growing sense of During the visit, the ship reasonable period of time.” Irishness among the unionists of the North, noting: “It hosted a reception for 250 The conference, held at the New York Hilton hotel, was always the case up until the civil rights struggle in members of the Boston Irish attracted about 700 supporters, some Irish, some Ireland that unionists described themselves as Irish. community. That visit had American, and all seemingly devoted to the cause of They always saw themselves as Irish. And then, as part been expected to coincide Irish unification. of the too-ing and fro-ing of the situation, this concept with a maiden voyage of the In an interview conducted after the conference con- of Britishness came into it.” Jeanie Johnston, a replica cluded, Adams told the Boston Irish Reporter that with Now, in this new era of peace and stability, union- famine ship built to commem- peace and political stability now a reality in Northern ists are re-embracing their sense of Irishness, Adams orate the 150th anniversary Ireland, the time was right to open an ambitious new said. “You can see it in so many ways, you can see it in of the Irish famine, but those chapter. obscure little ways, like (unionist) people being proud plans were cancelled when the “Having got it to the point it’s at, we now move on to of Riverdance, you can see it in support for the Irish replica ship was found not seaworthy in time for the events. the next natural part of the journey,” Adams said. rugby team, you can see it in Ian Paisley’s remarks Despite the good feelings of the LÉ Eithne’s return Under the terms of the Good Friday Agreement, the that of course he’s Irish.” visit, there are some sad memories as well. As the ship British and Irish governments are obliged to take the Adams added: “I suppose what we have to do is sailed home from Boston after its July 2000 visit, a crew steps needed to bring about unification if voters on both to respect the fact that being Irish is to be diverse. member was lost overboard. A 20-year-old seaman, Able sides of the border vote in favor of a united Ireland. That what all of this is reduced down to is a matter Mechanic Robert Dean, from Cork City, was missing It is assumed, but by no means totally certain, that of political allegiances. That some of us have political and was presumed dead off the coast of Canada. After voters in the Republic of Ireland would opt for unifica- allegiances to the union but the vast majority of people a lengthy air and sea scan of a 100-square mile area, tion. Public opinion surveys indicate a general desire have a political allegiance … to Ireland, and that’s the the sailor was never found. On the ship’s return voyage for unification in the South, but that could be different one that we have to bridge.” to its home port of Cork city, a service was held for the from voters casting actual ballots in favor, particularly “I do see that as the big historical challenge facing seaman lost during the Atlantic passage. if there was a price tag dangling in difficult economic those of us who want an independent Ireland. That we “LÉ Eithne was built in Ireland as a helicopter pa- times. go and engage, we go and talk, we try to make friends, trol vessel,” according to military.ie, the website of the In the North, the nationalist vote seems to have we invite them in.” Defense Forces of Ireland. “The equipment fit was to a very high standard and included the Naval Services first Operations room which integrated control of armament and aircraft to a designated centre, remote Adams Recalls ’94 Controversy: from the bridge. Her main armament is a BOFORS 57mm anti-aircraft gun with a LIOD fire control system. Secondary armament is provided by two 20mm ‘Surreal’ … Historic Policy ‘Reversal’ Rheinmetals. Eithne is also equipped with the DAO5 Air Surveillance Radar. This time, attending a conference in New York “In the summer of 1986 LÉ Eithne scored a notable was a relatively easy matter for Gerry Adams: book first, by becoming the first Irish Naval Service ship a flight, reserve a hotel room, write a speech. Fifteen to cross the Atlantic, when she sailed to the United years ago, it took the intervention of the president of States, visiting Hamilton, New York, and Boston. LÉ the United States to get Adams the visa he needed to Eithne is closely associated with Our Lady’s Hospital attend a Manhattan conference for Northern Ireland for Sick Children, Crumlin, and conducts fundraising political leaders. efforts on the hospitals behalf around the coast. She also The visa Adams received in 1994 came with heavy frequently brings the children down to visit the ship restrictions: he could stay in the United States for only for a morale-boosting day out during their recupera- 48 hours, could not travel more than 25 miles from tion from illness. Although all the ships’ home port is New York City, and couldn’t raise money for his Irish Haulbowline Island in Cork Harbour, LÉ Eithne has republican cause. a particularly close relationship with the town of Dún In deciding to grant the visa, then-President Bill Laoghaire in Co Dublin.” Clinton ruffled feathers in the State Department, which had long backed Britain’s view that the Troubles in Northern Ireland were a British “internal matter” Boston Irish that did not require international intervention. And,the decision was controversial because the Irish Republican Army, closely tied to Adams’s Sinn Fein party, was still The BostonREPORTER Irish Reporter is published monthly by: waging its campaign of violence. Boston Neighborhood News, Inc., But Clinton took the step to honor a commitment to 150 Mt. Vernon St., Suite 120, Dorchester, MA 02125 Irish-American political supporters and to “encourage [email protected] www.bostonirish.com Mr. Adams to make peace and help bring an end to the Mary C. Forry, President (1983-2004) tragic cycle of violence that has plagued the people of Edward W. Forry, Publisher Gerry Adams: One of those out-of-body experi- Northern Ireland for too long.” ences. A decade and a half later, Adams says his recollection Thomas F. Mulvoy Jr., Managing Editor decision. William P. Forry, Contributing Editor of that epic visit to New York – where he attended the Peter Stevens, Arts & Features Editor conference, conducted wall-to-wall media interviews, Seven months after Adams’s whirlwind trip to New and got very little sleep – is a bit blurry. York, the IRA declared a cease-fire, a decision at least News Room: (617) 436-1222 Ads : (617) 436-1222 “The visit was always a bit surreal to me. You know, partially underpinned by the recognition that Ameri- Fax: (617) 825-5516 [email protected] you nearly have one of those out-of-body experiences, can policy had changed and that the old days of the On The Web at www.bostonirish.com in terms of being at the center of this huge frenzy of U.S. reflexively supporting Britain, and by extension Date of Next Issue: August 2009 media and other attention. But, I suppose essentially Northern Ireland unionism, were gone. Deadline for Next Issue: Monday, July 20, at 2 p.m. The guns went still and the Northern Ireland peace Published monthly in the first week of each month. what it marked was the beginning of a complete re- process kicked into a new gear. The Boston Irish Reporter is not liable for errors appearing in advertisements versal of American-Anglo policy, so I would think of beyond the cost of the space occupied by the error. The right is reserved by it more in those terms.” -- ROBERT P. CONNOLLY The Boston Irish Reporter to edit, reject, or cut any copy without notice. The historical record attests to the wisdom of Clinton’s Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com July 2009 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page Commentary Off the Bench ‘Hope’ is Scarce in Ireland, But New Lisbon Treaty May Help Some By Joe Leary Many countries asked Ireland to try again, to ask Special to the BIR the Irish people to re-think their vote. Taoiseach Brian As Ireland sinks deeper into the agonies of depres- Cowen, though beleaguered by the economic meltdown, sion, Fianna Fail government leaders are working recommended caution lest Irish voters reject the treaty desperately to correct the problems caused by, “the most again and set about to educate doubters of the benefits overheated of all advanced economies,” according to of staying in the EU. the International Monetary Just a little over a year later, it appears the effort Fund (IMF) report issued in has been successful and a new vote will be held in Oc- late June. tober, probably on the 2d. This time the full force of all The IMF report, along political parties except Sinn Fein will be working hard with comments made on to obtain a positive vote. Cowen is strongly advocating June 24 by the Paris-based a “yes” vote to give Ireland a better chance of coming think tank, The Organiza- out of the recession. tion for Economic Coop- According to independent polls reported in the Irish eration and Development Times, the atmosphere in 2009 is a far cry from what (OECD), show clearly how it was last year and it appears Irish voters will ratify serious conditions in Ireland the treaty. Sensing a successful vote, Fine Gael’s op- look to become over the next position leader Enda Kenny, in a classic “me first” two to three years: The IMP political move, declared he should be the one to lead forecasts that by next year the campaign. unemployment in Ireland But if the “yes” votes prevail, the credit will be Brian Joe Leary will be in excess of 15 per- Cowen’s and his Fianna Fail ministers, who prevailed cent; OECD sees the nation’s upon European leadership to give Ireland ironclad legal gross domestic product decreasing by 14 percent. guarantees that the country’s sovereignty will not be Jim Braude, left, and Margery Egan make talk radio The lives of many Irish children, most Irish families, weakened especially with regard to taxation, neutral- tolerable from their Morrissey Blvd. studio. and all Irish college graduates, so hopeful just two years ity, and abortion. The guarantees will be filed in the ago, will be tragically affected by these developments. UN as part of a paragraph in the basic EU agreement Emigration to escape the disaster will be more difficult permitting such agreements. Duo Bring Fun, as countries all over the world, also suffering from Support for an approval vote on the Lisbon Treaty is economic difficulties, will be far less welcoming. well organized this time and the opposition is in some In May 2008, in the midst of the deteriorating disarray after losing many leaders in recent elections. Common Sense economy, the Irish people, especially those in rural High profile figures such as Seamus Heaney,U2’s the areas, overwhelmingly voted against participating Edge, and the athlete Robbie Keane have been recruited in the European Union’s “Lisbon Treaty” – the only and will make vigorous statements. to Airwaves European member country to do so – thereby prevent- No one is claiming that the ratification will solve all ing its enactment since all members must ratify new economic problems, all of Europe will look more favor- By James W. Dolan treaties before they become part of the law. In effect, ably upon Ireland if the vote is a “Yes.” By the same There is a lot to dislike about talk radio, but I ad- the Irish people voted to turn their backs on the EU, token, if he voters say “no” again, Ireland will lose mit to being a fan of Marjorie Egan and Jim Braude. which had supported their economic resurgence for valuable support and could be reduced to secondary Their blend of whimsy, self-deprecation, and just plain more than twenty years. status within the EU membership. nonsense is a delight and a welcome relief from the European leaders were shocked, as were many com- The approval vote, should it come, will add to Cowen’s two-fisted, in-your-face style of many of their compa- placent Irish leaders. Anger rose at the fact of this tiny and his party’s prestige and perhaps restore to them triots. country thwarting what European leaders thought was the electoral support they have lost because of the On weekdays from 12 to 3 p.m. on WTKK-FM (96.9, best for the Union as a whole. economic crisis. they are an oasis of humor in a desert of antagonism. The key is they don’t take themselves (or some of their topics) too seriously. You also get the impression they genuinely enjoy poking fun at one another. Score It a Big Week for the Bully Pulpit Jim is a Cambridge liberal and anchorman hypo- chondriac and Marjorie, Fall River-born and slightly By Jim O’Sullivan Legislature got schooled, they knew they were getting more conservative, is a former Durfee High School State House News Service schooled, and in the end there wasn’t a heck of a lot By Thursday afternoon, June 25, the capitol had they could do about it. House Majority Leader James cheerleader. She writes a regular column in the Herald grown weary of waiting for Gov. Deval Patrick to pass Vallee called it the “bumping and grinding” of the and he does news and interviews on NECN. judgment on bills on his desk re-wiring the transporta- legislative process. The House and Senate got bumped The combination works. Sandwiched between Michael tion bureaucracy, tightening ethics laws, and escalating and ground. Graham and Jay Severin, they are a sunny day between the state sales tax by 25 percent. Under the ethics bill, which the Legislature mis-pack- two storms; balloons between a bulldozer and a sledge Senate President Therese Murray, the governor’s foil aged by not touting the campaign finance elements, the hammer; the quiet interlude between a colonoscopy for months, professed to “have no idea” what Patrick Ethics Commission would grow stronger, the attorney and a prostate exam. would decree at his early-evening press conference. general could open statewide grand jury investigations, Severin and Graham, to a lesser degree, subscribe Months of wrangling and suspense, boiled down to an the secretary of state could more thoroughly regulate lob- to the shock and awe school of talk radio. With his extra humid day in June. bying, and ethics and corruption violations would carry self-serving “best and brightest” audience, Severin is And if the building’s emotions hadn’t been rubbed heavier penalties. No more gifts for elected officials. polite, solicitous, and complimentary, but let someone raw enough, Farrah Fawcett was off to join the Mass. The heavily maligned Mass. Turnpike Authority disagree with him or, even worse, criticize him, and he Turnpike Authority in the great beyond, followed shortly is on its way out under the transportation omnibus, can be downright nasty. by Michael Jackson. The press conference crept a few replaced by something called MassDOT. Employees Although obviously smart and often informative, his slots down the news ladder. will lose some benefits. Regional transit authorities inflated ego, lack of civility, and flamethrower remarks Still, it was tempting to think that the celebrity will move to forward funding, which hasn’t worked undercut his credibility and get him in trouble, prompt- expirations could fit neatly into the administration’s out well for the T. ing station management to try to tone him down. insistence on urgency. If the lissome blonde’s and Gloved Pegged at an annualized $900 million, the 25-per- Even though Graham, the self-styled “natural truth,” One’s deaths weren’t part of the governor’s arsenal, cent sales tax bump pours $275 million a year into almost always agrees with his late afternoon colleague, they were about the only things missing. transportation, enough evidently to pacify Patrick but he has a softer touch. Patrick, who for years has railed against “government not necessarily to avert future toll, gas tax, or T fare Some talk show hosts apparently think the only way by press release or sound bite,” for months deployed press hikes, or some combo of the three. Those decisions will to attract and retain an audience is to continuously releases, sound bites, and the kitchen sink against lawmak- be made down the line, along with the tougher ones on carpet-bomb the opposition. Disinclined to entertain or ers to get to yes, where he found himself that Thursday. pension laws. consider opposing viewpoints, they preside over echo Even if they were going to do some of it anyway. Even if, Transportation reform and revenue, and this wasn’t chambers. Thoughtful listeners with different views as frustrated legislators often point out, Patrick never in the press release, don’t really come all that close to soon get the message. filed a pension rules change, or didn’t really get behind fixing a $20 billion problem over the next 20 years. “I While others pride themselves on being on the cut- ethics reform until late last year, or waited two years don’t want to take away from this important first step,” ting edge, Marjorie and Jim have captured the blunt and two transportation secretaries before disclosing said Stephen Silveira, who chaired the Transportation middle – the area most of us occupy. his transportation package. Even if, they note while Finance Commission that diagnosed the funding gap. Even when discussing serious topics, they are funny. continuing to grind their teeth, he absconded with the Silveira added that costs need to come down in order They just cannot remain serious for long. The chemistry nifty “reform before revenue” slogan after pummeling to solve the deficit. “This isn’t over; that’s for sure,” between them is such that one or the other makes a them into accepting his new business taxes and for he said. remark and they’re off to the races. resisting his local option and gas taxes. Budget mayhem continued to chip away at the state’s Alone they are not as funny, but put them together Doesn’t matter. It was, by any measure, a solid week health care expansion, with overseers deciding June and something happens. They have an acute sense of for Patrick. He’ll dodge a $100 million toll hike without 23 to halt automatic enrollment for subsidized health the absurd and silly side of life so helpful in contending adding to the gas tax, yet, and gets to build a head of care next year, when it looks as if that portion of the with harsh reality. They are to current events what steam for November 2010 by claiming the reformer plan will cope with more than $100 million less than “Click and Clack” are to matters automotive. mantle that has thus far eluded him. needed to keep pace. Although their humor is spontaneous, they often He’ll have to put his name on the sales tax, but every- Hospitals are dealing with postponed payments pick light topics that easily lend themselves to comic one can use an extra $900 million now and again, and from the state and insurers are saying a $52 million relief. When you consider that Jon Stewart and Ste- he gets to say he ransomed the ethics bill for it. universal immunization tax will harm small business. phen Colbert have writers, you can better appreciate It’s unclear how many points he’ll earn with the The “shared responsibility” symphony is coming across the almost effortless comic wit and whimsy of Egan recession-, scandal-, and waste-fatigued electorate. a few rough measures, and at the very moment the and Braude. It is clear that he didn’t post too many with those he federales are looking at the commonwealth for guid- He is particularly clever about exposing some of his referred to as “our partners in the Great and General ance and inspiration. neurotic tendencies to her good-natured skewering. Court.” Looking to depict Patrick as a grandstanding The guv was all about the shared responsibility and They are not cruel or mean-spirited and much of their manipulator, they observed that they funded most of achievement June 25, when nervous lawmakers and humor is directed against themselves. his priorities in the budget and elsewhere, but did so legislative aides flocked to his briefing room, profess- What makes their show fun is they seem to be having using alternative means, and said they shouldn’t be ing to have no certainty about whether he’d sign the fun doing it. Most of us enjoy watching (or, in this case, targeted by perhaps unneeded hostage YouTubes, the transportation and sales tax pieces. listening) to people having a good time. governor, ostensibly, standing with a rattled-looking How Patrick and the Legislature move forward now in So a salute to Jim and Marjorie! They are not about sales tax receipt and today’s newspaper. that atmosphere has heavy implications for the criminal to solve any of the pressing problems we face but they “It’s childish,” said Rep. Michael Moran, Democrat sentencing, criminal record, and education laws Patrick do remind us that a sense of humor can brighten even of Brighton, earlier in the week. “‘I’m taking my ball said are his next order of business. They’ve already given the cloudiest day. and going home, because you didn’t give me the ethics him the quiver of reforms he can trot out on the trail James W. Dolan is a retired Dorchester District Court bill on time’.” as evidence he’s changed the Hill. What they give him judge now practicing law. His e-mail address is jdolan@ That’s why they call it the bully pulpit, Rep. The in the next 16 months could make as much difference. dolanconnly.com. Page July 2009 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com BIR Profile Meet Michele O’Connor, a VP at all-boys BC High: A fund-raiser with panache in academia and politics

By Greg O’Brien Ask O’Connor, political to the core, Special to the BIR what’s wrong with Massachusetts’s poli- The daughter of an ex-nun and an Iowa tics today, and then step back. “Where farm boy, a devout young Republican in do you want me to start?” she asks. “We a state dominated by Democrats, the vice can get along with far less and we don’t president for institutional advancement need big government.” Of the Deval Pat- at the iconic all-boys Boston College rick Administration, she says, “I would High School, and a woman with a knack grade them a C minus. We don’t need a for fundraising acquired in childhood Turnpike tax, and we don’t need to raise through asking her frugal father for our income tax. I want no tax.” money, Michele M. O’Connor gives new So what must young Republicans do definition to the word eclectic. to become more viable in the Common- At 35, O’Connor, who has accomplished wealth? more in her field than most twice her “We need to become more articulate,” age, offers a fresh, youthful perspective she says. “It is disheartening to see so on life. many good Republican candidates run for A graduate of the politically savvy office with great energy and commitment, Saint Anselm College in Manchester, and then we have to live with the results, N.H., the Waltham native earned a the re-election of a string of Democrats. masters degree in political science at People in this state are apathetic. They Suffolk University, and was appointed want the same incumbent and the same deputy finance director for then State party year after year. As Republicans, we Treasurer Joe Malone’s unsuccessful are generally shouldering a state burden 1998 gubernatorial bid against acting that we didn’t create. We need to remain Gov. Paul Cellucci in the Republican vigilant. It is hard to keep climbing up a primary. She later became then Lt. Gov. mountain, but I am hopeful that youth Kerry Healey’s campaign finance direc- and leadership will prevail.” tor, raising money for her candidate’s Youth and leadership drew O’Connor campaign against Deval Patrick. to BC High. Tempering her urge to wax Bloodied in the process perhaps, but political, she quickly segues to the found- unbowed, as the poet William Ernest ing principles of the school—faith and Henley reflects in Invictus, O’Connor service through active participation in then hit her stride in academia, mar- the community and church and a focus on shalling her considerable fundraising, youth and leadership regardless of one’s political, marketing, and media skills at political persuasions. Part of a network Saint Anselm’s as assistant director of of 46 Jesuit secondary schools across the the college’s General Fund, at Stonehill country that educate more than 40,000 College as director of its Annual Fund, young men and women every year, BC and now at BC High where she has be- High, with more than 99 percent of its come as much a part of this respected graduates attending college, strives in institution as its historic red brick build- its own words to “integrate faith with ings. On the job here for nearly five years, knowledge and encourage students to there is plenty more on the horizon for improve the world around them, known O’Connor and her colleagues. The Jesuit in Jesuit circles as ‘a faith that does school, founded in Boston’s South End justice.’ ” in 1863 and rooted in the 16th-century O’Connor says she never had that teachings of St. Ignatius Loyola, will be direction in the public schools she at- celebrating its 150th anniversary in just tended. “I was wholly unprepared for four years. Michele O’Connor: from politics to academia. Photo by Greg O’Brien college,” she admits. “College was a shock.” In contrast, she notes, BC High “I have plenty to do,” she says from her to the Republican Party, she says, “I’m often head south to Dallas, then take a office off Morrissey Boulevard. “There prepares its students in every way to a study in contradictions. I’ve always left or a right turn,” O’Connor says. “My continue their education and reinforces are good challenges every day. I don’t see been a minority within a minority. My dad headed east.” myself in politics in the future. I might the traditional family ethic. “The public parents were conservative and influ- She describes her 82-year-old father, schools,” she adds, “just don’t have the dabble a bit, but my days of working in enced me in those ways. I’ve never had who boasts Gaelic roots dating back to politics are probably over.” Jesuit ideals. There are too many distrac- a problem standing up for what I believe the mid-1800s, as a “hard working man, tions. Between Hollywood, Facebook, She might, however, anticipate a call in. I always will.” who was frugal but who would give you or two from her party over the years. and everything else, the family core is O’Connor is passionate about every- the shirt off his back. He was very gener- decaying. BC High, like few other schools O’Connor still speaks regularly with thing she does, a trait passed down from ous to the church and those in need. Dad Malone, who works in private practice, in New England, can cut through all her parents. Her father, John, was raised was a great storyteller. He loved to talk that; it can offer students hope for the and with Healey, currently a Fellow on a family farm in Iowa, and as a young politics and freely talked with strangers. at the Center for Public Leadership at future, a far better sense of right and man found his way to the Boston area to He was gregarious.” All of these traits, wrong, and a clear understanding of Harvard’s Kennedy School. Anticipat- work as a foreman at Raytheon, where his it seems, have passed to her. ing the question of what attracted her social justice. The school’s alumni are brother was employed. “People in Iowa O’Connor, who is single, lives in an extended family.” Waltham with her two Brittany spaniels, By the numbers, O’Connor says, BC and has a younger brother, John, a police High is impressive by any measure: 1,500 officer. She cares for her father every students; 15,000 alumni, many of them IS YOUR CAR INSURANCE BILL day, noting that her mother, Jeannine, active; a 40-acre campus on Dorchester who died at 63 of cancer, was “a joyful Bay; a 13-to-1 student to faculty ratio; person who always had a smile on her 85 elective courses, 24 advanced place- face and made everyone feel important.” ment courses, some 85 faculty holding The young Jeannine earned a nursing masters degrees; collectively more than degree and entered the convent of the 35,000 hours of community service Sisters of St. Anne where, after some performed by students each year; and initial consideration of further medical more than $3.7 million in financial aid studies, she was assigned to study Eng- distributed this year, with 40 percent lish at Anna Marie College, founded by of the students receiving some sort of the Sisters of St. Anne outside Worcester. financial help toward an annual tuition She taught as a nun for 15 years. that will be $14,950 for the upcoming Jeannine determined in time that academic year. her vocation was outside, not inside, the In a troubled economy, raising money convent, and she left the order to pursue to support financial aid and improve her medical and teaching career and a school programs—the core of O’Connor’s life as a mother. She met John O’Connor responsibilities that also include mar- after leaving the convent. keting and media outreach— is a chal- “I am a mix of the two,” O’Connor says lenge that would test the most seasoned proudly. “I have my mother’s personality fundraiser. and zest for life, and I have my father’s “Supporters give generously to the work ethic and, sometimes, his temper, mission of BC High,” she says. “The suc- although not much of it.” cesses here have stood the test of time. DON’T JUST RENEW WHAT YOU HAVE. Growing up in Waltham was an idyl- It’s a tribute to the school, the Jesuits, lic childhood, she recalls. “My parents and the faculty.” had children later in life and devoted Such youthful enthusiasm and per- Compare it against our best offer. Our clients are all their energies to us, although one of severance would please St. Ignatius. them was always working—when dad For a woman who has been a minority saving hundreds of dollars by calling us! came home, mom usually went to work. within a minority, a free thinker in every They had a strong marriage, an enduring way, the daughter of a former nun and a Call for a FAST FREE QUOTE. faith, and were active in St. Luke’s Par- farmhand, Michele O’Connor has found ish in Belmont where Mom directed the a home at an all-boys school on the bay 617-773-3800 • WWW.ATAINSURANCE.COM choir and I sang in it,” O’Connor says. At where she soars like an eagle. Waltham High School—where, she says, Greg O’Brien is president of Stony ATA INSURANCE AGENCY,INC she was an average student—O’Connor Brook Group, a publishing and politi- played soccer and was on the ski team, cal/communication company based in 234 Copeland St., S220, Quincy, MA 02169 hence the attraction to college in New Brewster. The author/editor of several Our 40th Year helping Clients! Hampshire, along with her instinct for books, he has contributed to numerous politics. regional and national publications.

© 2009 Agency Ideas® / Shulman Consulting Group, Inc. All rights reserved. Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com July 2009 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page BIR History First Man Of The “Fighting Ninth” Irish-Born Colonel Thomas Cass Proved That He and His Fellow Irish Would Fight, Die To Protect the Union

Second in a two part series bridge. A full Union retreat commenced – with Cass nounced anti-Irish opposition and found success not By Peter F. Stevens and his men forced to fight a rearguard action allowing only as a businessman, but also esteem as a valiant Reporter Staff the rest of the Union force to escape catastrophe. The soldier and patriot. On the evening of June 26, 1862, Colonel Thomas Confederate troops, led by Generals James Longstreet Colonel Thomas Cass, of Farmly, Ireland, was laid Cass and the men of the Ninth Massachusetts Irish and Ambrose P. Hill, pummeled General George B. to rest at Mt. Auburn Cemetery with full military Regiment had little time to reflect upon the horrors McClellan’s Army of the Potomac until nightfall, and honors. He had proven that he and his fellow Boston of that morning and afternoon. The Irish companies by the time the sun had set, some 6,000 Union troops Irish would fight and die to protect the Union. of Boston, Milford, Marlborough, and Salem were had been killed or wounded. The Ninth had helped A statue of Colonel Cass was erected in the Boston battered from shrieking blasts of Confederate musket save the Army of the Potomac, but had suffered grave Public Garden, but surviving veterans of his regi- balls and artillery at the Battle of Mechanicsville, Vir- losses -- 252 casualties. ment railed that the memorial was both stiff and a ginia. Still, Cass and his men As horrific as the Battle of Gaines Mill had been, poor likeness of the fallen hero. The Society of the had helped drive the Rebels worse lay ahead for Cass and his men. Ninth Regiment raised funds to tear down the statue back and inflict over 2,000 Less than a week later, the ravaged Massachusetts and commissioned noted sculptor Richard E. Brooks casualties upon the Southern Irishmen took up positions on Malvern Hill, Virginia. to craft a bronze statue of Cass. On September 22, regiments. The Confederate The Union troops were dug in, and bristling Federal 1899, the striking bronze, which captured the visage capital, Richmond, lay less batteries whose black barrels were loaded with grape- and commanding presence of Colonel Thomas Cass than ten miles away. shot – loads of metal pieces that literally tore apart and garnered high praise and a prestigious award for The Ninth was assigned a massed troops – awaited the oncoming Rebels. Behind Brooks, was unveiled. It stands there today, testimony crucial task on the following the heights, Union gunboats were also positioned to to a hero – a Boston Irish and American hero. morning, June 27, 1862. In blast away at the Rebels. (For further reading, we strongly suggest Command- stifling heat, they deployed The carnage at the Battle of Malvern Hill on July 1, ing Boston’s Irish Ninth: The Civil War Letters of Colo- around a bridge that forded a 1862, stunned even veterans thought they had seen nel Patrick R. Guiney Ninth Massachusetts Volunteer mill creek. Cass and his troops everything in both the Mexican-American War (1846- Infantry, by Christian Samito.) readied themselves to hold the 48) and the battles along the James River over the span while awaiting two sup- past month. Many military historians would point to port regiments’ arrival. Malvern Hill as a blood-chilling glimpse of warfare’s Colonel Thomas Cass As Rebel fire erupted from future: the waves of Confederate troops hurled in one the opposite bank, Cass and his horrific charge after another into the literal mouths men held steady, one collective eye on the gray- and of massed cannons and dug-in defenders heralded the butternut-hued companies massing on the opposite carnage of World War I’s Western Front. bank, the other peering for any sign of the support Caught in the thick of it were Colonel Thomas Cass regiments. The blood-curdling “Rebel Yell” pealed and his men, blazing away at each Confederate wave through the sultry air, and the Confederates surged at rushing up the corpse-strewn slope and wavering and the bridge. The Irishmen squinted down their musket falling back to the woods fronting Malvern Hill. As barrels and waited. Cass exhorted his troops to pour yet another deadly Suddenly and in perfect unison the Ninth opened up. fusillade into the buckling Rebel lines, he suddenly When the smoke of their volleys lifted, heaps of dead clutched his face and toppled to the slope. A shot had Rebels lay in front of the bridge or had toppled into the torn apart his mouth and features. creek. Others writhed and screamed for help. Cass was carried from the field and taken to the sur- Several times the Rebels stormed the bridge. The geons. A quick glimpse of his shattered face confirmed Ninth drove them back each time. All of the drill that the wounds were mortal. At best, he might linger and training that Cass had unleashed upon his men a few weeks. Orderlies would soon load him onto a back in Massachusetts was paying off in a lethal way transport home to Boston. against the Rebels. On Malvern Hill, Lieutenant Colonel Hawley as- Cass kept searching through his field glasses for the sumed command of the 9th as soon as he saw Cass’s blue Federal columns that were supposed to hold the grievous wounds. Hawley was hit shortly after, and bridge with the Ninth. With the reinforcements still Captain O’Leary had to take charge. The Ninth had absent, the Rebels kept coming. More and more of the lost its two top officers and half its remaining strength Irishmen fell in the Confederate onslaught. Still, the – 166 men – by the time that the Confederates’ last Ninth’s shredded companies held. charge wilted. Finally, the reinforcements arrived; on the other side Colonel Cass made it back to Boston, his wife and of the creek, however, the Confederates had massed for children with him as he took his final breaths on July a last assault. Before the Union regiments could full 12, 1862.. Fittingly, they came in the city where a prepare, the howling Rebel force surged forward and young Irish immigrant had clawed his way out of the pushed the Ninth and the other Union troops from the North End’s “rookeries” (tenements) in the face of pro- Dual citizenship services offered “While obtaining dual up of professional histo- Irish citizenship can be rians, genealogists, and vexing, we help our clients legal researchers who obtain theirs without hav- deliver a high standard ing to surrender their US of results. Staff members or Canadian citizenship,” are organizational experts says Deirdre Quinn, who who work with precision operates a genealogical and attention to details in service for Irish Ameri- order to provide a custom- cans seeking to obtain an ized result for you, the new Irish passport. dual Irish citizen. “We do the research, “Our research team has organize the required a diverse background, documentation, complete with prestigious member- the forms required by the ships in historical and Irish government, and genealogical organiza- submit all the material tions. Our research team necessary for obtaining in Ireland is experienced citizenship,’ she says. in finding Irish records “We’re really good at this, and they have access to a and have developed con- wide variety of parish and tacts in the Irish Embassy civic archives.” and consulate offices that The service is available help us do this promptly-- online at dualirishcitizen- in less time than is usually ship.net. Research for quoted on Irish govern- documents is charged at ment web sites. a rate of $40 per hour, “These days everyone and a dual Irish citizen- Bruins legends help wants to be Irish, and ship package is offered those who qualify for dual at prices starting at $279. pitch in for vets Irish citizenship are eager Embassy fees are extra to become citizens of their and not included in the Boston Bruins’ greats Bobby Orr and Ken Hodge parents’ or grandparents’ pricing. “We do all the took some shots on the practice green at Quincy’s homeland. And once they running around for you Granite Links Golf Course on Monday, June 29. The pair were participating in a celebrity golf tourna- obtain their Irish citizen- and notify you when ment to benefit the Disabled American Veterans in ship and have an Irish the packet is sent to the Massachusetts. The purpose of the tournament was passport in hand, on their Embassy for processing,” to help fund transportation programs that assist next visit to Ireland, they she says. state veterans in getting to and from medical ap- won’t be going to visit, The California-based pointments. At right, Quincy Mayor Thomas Koch they’ll be going home.” business is also available with one of the event organizers, Lou Pasquale of Quinn explains, “Our by phone at 760-772- Braintree. Pasquale is a veteran of World War II. research team is made 8318. Photos by Bill Forry Page July 2009 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com Notes from the Irish Immigration Center Immigration Q & A An agency accredited by US Department of Justice Looking For Your 59 Temple Place, Suite 1010, Boston, MA 02111 Telephone (617) 542-7654 Fax (617) 542-7655 Ancestors? Please Website:iicenter.org Email: [email protected] Tribute to Monsignor Still Haven’t Received also have our own listings a clinic near you: Try This Resource Thomas J. McDonnell IIC’s E-Newsletter? - of accommodation and Downtown – Thurs., -- All of us at IIC express - We launched our new jobs that we have built up July 9 and 16 and 30 from Q. I’m tracing my ancestors who came our sadness at the pass- electronic newsletter in over the years. We provide 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. in our office from Ireland several generations ago. I heard ing of Rev. Msgr. Thomas the spring and thank you advice and local knowledge at 59 Temple Place, Suite that the US government has information J. McDonnell. Monsignor for the feedback you have for them and also printing 1010. Get off at Park St. available on immigration to the US. Is this McDonnnell was a hugely provided. We hope that and photocopying which is or Downtown Crossing true? respected presence for the short e-mail bulletins usually needed with the Subway. Note: No clinics A. Yes, US Citizenship and Immigration Services good throughout the city will be useful to you for large amount of résumés on July 23. (USCIS) recently introduced its new “Genealogy Pro- and will remain always a keeping up with what’s they hand into employers,” A l l s t o n - B r i g h t o n gram.” The agency, which is the successor to the US particularly beloved figure happening in immigration said Robert Sadlier, the – Tues., July 14, from Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS), main- in South Boston. During news around the country intern in the International 6:30pm in the Kells Bar tains historical records documenting the arrival and his 21 years there, his and with what we can do Programs office who volun- and Restaurant, 161 naturalization of millions of people who immigrated care, compassion and devo- for your individual case. If teers his time to help J-1 Brighton Ave, Allston. to the US since the late 1800s and were naturalized tion stretched far beyond you still haven’t received students. South Boston – Tues., between 1906 and 1956. Previously it was necessary to just his parishioners but the e-newsletter but would The Cyber Café is lo- June 30, at 6 p.m. at file a Freedom of Information Act request to view these swept right through the like to, send an e-mail to cated on the 5th floor of Laboure Center (directly records. Now it will be possible to retrieve the records community and our city. happybirthday@iicenter. our building at 59 Temple across from Burger King) more quickly by filing new forms: G-1041, “Geneal- Msgr. McDonnell was the org saying so in the sub- Place. 275 West Broadway, South ogy Index Search request;” and G-1041A, “Genealogy co-founder of The Simon ject line. If you have summer Boston. Records Request.” These forms and an explanation of of Cyrene Society, which Employ an Irish stu- positions to fill, e-mail us Dorchester – Tues., the program are available on the new USCIS Genealogy works to support the needs dent for the summer! at j1summer@iicenter. July 28 at 6 p.m. at Saint Program web page at uscis.gov/genealogy. The fees and rights of persons with -- Irish students on the org or call 617-542-1900, Mark’s Parish (School charged are as follows: Genealogy Index Search, $20; disabilities and their fami- J-1 visa are arriving in Ext 41. Hall), 1725 Dorchester copy of a file on microfilm, $20; copy of a text file, $35. lies and he will be deeply Boston looking for summer Free Legal Clinics Ave., Dorchester. There are, of course, countless other web sites devoted missed for the work that he employment and housing. in July -- Do you have Immigration Attorneys to genealogy. You can get links to some possibly useful did, and for the man that We invite you to use our questions about your im- will be present at all clin- sites from IIC: go to iicenter.org and click Resources, he was. The monsignor free Cyber Café to list your migration case or that of ics. IIC has been providing Special Interest, and then Genealogy. (Note that IIC was a past Solas Award jobs and houses for the a family member? Do you free immigration legal receives no compensation from any commercial gene- recipient and we all mourn students to apply for. “Our want to learn more about advice for 20 years this alogy web sites and cannot guarantee their services.) his loss as we celebrate Cyber Cafe provides com- becoming a citizen? Drop year. For more informa- For a confidential consultation about any aspect of im- his life. Our thoughts are puters with Internet ac- in to have your queries tion about IIC legal clinics, migration law, visit one of our legal clinics advertised with his friends and loved cess where they can search answered by experienced call 617-542-7654. monthly in the IIC’s Notes in the Reporter. ones at this difficult time. for housing and jobs; we immigration attorneys at Disclaimer: These articles are published to inform, not to advise. Areas of law are rapidly changing. US Citizenship and Immigration Ser- vices and US Department of State regularly amend Matters Of Substance regulations and alter processing and filing pro- cedures. For legal advice seek the assistance of an IIC immigration specialist or an immigration ‘If it’s not bleedin’…, Please… ask for help! attorney. By Danielle Owen individuals living in this sure you have what you until it is too late. Help is Special to the BIR community (no matter need while you are here. available, no matter what. Reading about yet an- what their immigration Massachusetts has Keep your eye out for de- other preventable death status), the priority is some great services to tails about our next two of an undocumented im- getting them well and further help us to help you free health screenings, migrant here on the East healthy again. If you are with your health access is- including dental, here in Coast has prompted me to asked for your Social Se- sues. If you have any ques- the IIC in the autumn. shelve my planned topic curity number or your im- tions at all about getting Call Danielle, in con- this month and focus on migration status, it is only healthcare, call Health- fidence836-1929 (215) FAX: and without another matter of sub- to match you with the best Care for All’s helpline: judgment, at the Irish stance. I am told by many treatment options avail- 1800-272-4232. They just Immigration Center. of the folks I chat to each able in your community. want to help you get what Phone: 617-542-7654, However, people continue you need. Ext. 14 or send an e-mail week, that because they . live in the U.S. without to die from preventable Full Stop! If you are in to [email protected]. immigration status, they illnesses, from injuries doubt, call us! Don’t wait feel that they are not that became fatal with entitled to ask for any untreated infections, or CELEbRATINg 20 YEARS: 1989-2009 help with their health. by suicide because they 836-1929 (215)

Some believe that if they were scared to get help for Free Legal family-based,applicable. if insertion, last your from changed their depression or mental get injured, have a sore employment-based, immigration,not health issues. tooth, or get sick, no one and citizenship advice. here in Massachusetts will Of course some are help them. “Tough it out, afraid of stepping forward Irish Citizenship there’s no point in asking!” for help and tell them- We, as Irish people, have selves that they have no Irish Immigration CeNter by Quinn THIS IS YOUR AD PROOF—PLEASE CHECK IT CAREFULLY! choice because of their 836-4900 (215) PHONE: a proud history of fighting times, dates, prices, all that and correctly, spelled is everything sure Make of parts those check please Also, accurate. are etc. addresses, locations, were which ad your and indicated where below sign please ad, your checked have you When at Edition Irish to back it fax for ourselves and others status. The truth is they Have You Always Dreamed of Having in need (Irish, American, do have a choice. Free LegaL CLiniCs and Spanish Revolutions, The immigration sys- Your Irish Citizenship? tem here in the U.S. is old, even the Battle of the TUESDAY CLINICS: south Boston We provide research, cut through the red Alamo!) but these days outdated ,and very unfair, Laboure Center but you and your family 275 West Broadway tape, and do all the leg work so that you we really don’t advocate Allston-Brighton South Boston, MA 02127 for ourselves as we could! have a right to live, to be The Kells Bar and Restaurant 6:00 pm can obtain your dual Irish citizenship in the I have asked many health safe, and to get timely and 161 Brighton Ave, Allston, MA 02134 February 24th, April 27th, June 30th, 6:30 pm August 25th, October 27th shortest possible time. service providers over the appropriate health care. If January 13th, February 9th, last five years, from state you are an Irish citizen, March 10th, April 14th Call, e-mail, or fax Dual Irish Citizenship by the Irish Government has THURSDAY CLINICS: level health agencies, Quinn for a free evaluation. We’ll let you hospitals and community made sure that you can get Dorchester DoWntoWn Boston help here in Massachu- Saint Mark’s Parish (School Hall) know if you’re eligible to hold Irish citizen- health centers to nurse Irish Immigration Center 1725 Dorchester Ave. practitioners, dentists, setts. Just read this paper 59 Temple Place ship and an Irish passport. Dorchester, MA 02124 to get the number for the 10th Floor and doctors. Their main 6:00 pm Boston, MA 02111 Irish Immigration Center, January 27th, March 31st message is clear: When 4:00pm it comes to the health of Irish Pastoral Centre or Dual Irish Citizenship by Quinn the community and all the Irish Consulate. We visit WWW.iicenter.org or cAll 617-542-7654 to confirm scheDule all work together to make www.dualirishcitizenship.net call or fax: 760.772.8318

Breads ’n Bits of Ireland • We complete the required paperwork for your dual Irish citizenship. • Home Bakery • Irish Kitchen • We cut through the red tape and do the Featuring... Scones, Irish Soda Bread, Brown Bread, leg work for you. • We provide research service in the U.S., Homemade Soup, Sandwiches Canada, and Ireland.

Telephone 781-662-5800 • Fax 781-662-0859Quinn by Citizenship Irish Tel. 760.772.8318

e-mail: [email protected] 2009 June Fax 760.772.8318 530 Main Street, Melrose, MA 02176 • 781-662-5800 www.dualirishcitizenship.net advertiser: issue: 4x10 size: by: approved ______date: ______903 EAST WILLOW GROVE AVENUE, WYNDMOOR, PA WYNDMOOR, 19038-7909 AVENUE, GROVE WILLOW EAST 903 IRISH EDITION Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com July 2009 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page IIC Launches New Home Health Aide Class to go into nursing as well on paper,” she said. $800-$900 standard rate patient confidentiality, Free class provides as people who want to O’Driscoll has already for a class. The course the men and women share strengthen their already started her pre-require- includes training in basic personal stories, baking established health care ments at the Quincy skills such as monitoring recipes, and a laugh or Health Care Career career.” College nursing program. blood pressure, pulse, and two. Class participant Callie She is taking the IIC class respiration, providing hy- “What is almost the Training for Local Irish O’Driscoll has 20 years to receive the certifica- giene care, and nutrition most important aspect of of experience in the el- tion that many agencies information, and assist- the class is that it builds By Katie Forberg home. Class participants der care profession, but require for work. ing with the mobility of up a network of friends,” Special to the BIR do not need any back- she never received her Maureen McNally, a patients. Also, the nurses Conneely said. “It’s a fun On June 16, nineteen ground in the nursing certification. While her nurse practitioner at teach participants how to group. We bring in baked men and women and four field; the sessions can professional background the Dorchester House in recognize symptoms that goods, drink tea, and have nurses met at the Irish be the jumping point for is in the financial indus- Dorchester, volunteers need professional medical a nice time socializing.” Immigration Center for people who are interested try, she realized her true to teach each week. She attention. IIC will offer a second tea, soda bread, and two in the health care field. passion was in patient said that while C.A.R.E. Along with the medical class series starting in hours of home health care Gobnait Conneely, IIC care and moved into was initially started for education the class offers, late July, but places are training. The IIC, in asso- Community Outreach health work. O’Driscoll networking and support Conneely said the sessions limited. For information ciation with C.A.R.E., the manager and founding said she jumped at the within the care-giving foster new friendships please call Gobnait Con- Association of Irish Care- member of C.A.R.E., said opportunity to take the community, members are between the participants neely at 617-542-7654, givers and Confidents, has that the class was started class because it will help now looking to share their and nurses. In between Ext. 34 or send an e-mail launched a new program to meet the needs of people transform her interest expertise with others. “We learning about universal to her at gconneely@iicen- that provides entry-level in the community. “With into a new career. are a group of caregivers safety precautions and ter.org. training into the home the economy the way it “I think that the class in the community who health care profession. is, people are losing jobs gives individuals the wanted, in addition to The weekly class is free and looking for other confidence to get RN de- supporting each other, and aims at providing a work. There are people gree. Many of the people to do something tangible comprehensive instruc- in the program who took have the background, the for community,” McNally tion on how to care for the course for insight into skills, and the knowledge, said. “This class fits very patients within their own whether or not they want but now they just need it nicely with the IIC mission. Like the other ser- FOLEY LAW OFFICES, P.C. vices at the IIC, this gives ICCNE’s Night of Irish Culture people basic qualifications Attorney John Philip Foley to get ahead.” Permanent Residency & Citizenship • Family & Business The class also allows Immigration • Labor Certification & Temporary Visas at the Brockton Rox on July 25 participants to determine ALL Nationalities & AILA Members On Sat., July 25, the Face Painting, and good raffles and will have a if they even want to pur- Irish Cultural Centre old fashioned baseball table set up with infor- sue a career in patient of New England will be as the Rox take on the mation on the “Journey career, without paying the hosting a Night of Irish American Defenders of into Ireland,” a family Culture at the Brockton New Hampshire. trip lead by the ICCNE Rox Baseball Game tak- The Irish cultural activi- that will take place next ing place at Campanelli ties will begin at 5 p.m. and April 17-25. Field. The evening will will take place throughout Tickets for the game include Irish Step danc- the evening. The baseball are $8 per person with Chocolate Gifts to Share ing, Gaelic Football and game will start at 6:05 a portion of the proceeds Hurling Demonstrations, p.m. The Centre is also going back to the Irish Traditional Irish Music, planning giveaways and Cultural Centre. For more information or to Artane Band Arrives purchase tickets please • Handmade Chocolates • Hand Roasted call 781-821-8291 or visit • Beautiful Baskets Premium Nuts our website at irishculture.org by Fri. July 24. chocolate• Holiday Cookie Tins • Dazzling Gift Towers in Bay State in August The famous Artane highlights of the tour will Founded in 1989, the • Party Favors • Old Fashioned Fudge mission of the Irish Cul- Band will be touring Mas- be a gala concert perfor- • Corporate Gifts sachusetts in late August/ mance at the Hanover tural Centre of New September with momen- theater in Worcester, a England (ICCNE) is to tum building through lunch-time performance at promote and organize Irish cultural, educa- Phillips Candy House the efforts of the Boston historic Faneuil Hall, and fine chocolates since 1925 GAA, the Irish Cultural a family concert at Milton tional, sporting and social Centre of New England, High School. In addition, events. We aim to estab- 818 Morrissey Boulevard, Boston lish and sustain a facility the Mayor’s office in Bos- the Artane ensemble will South Shore Plaza, Braintree ton, the Irish Consulate, lead the teams for the Re- where current and future Lieutenant Governor Tim gionals GAA finals on the generations of the New Murray’s office, the AOH main pitch in Canton. The England community can Order Online at in Worcester, and the tour will later be shown as participate in activities phillipschocolate.com towns of Melrose, Milton a documentary on Irish that promote Irish culture and Canton. television . and heritage. or call 800.722.0905 The Artane Band is Anyone interested in seen as synonymous with getting involved with the Irish Sport and Culture Artane Band’s visit should and is widely regarded as call Mary Swanton at 617- Ireland’s premier march- 291-0525. She is helping to ing band. Among the coordinate the tour. G eraghty ssociates Summer at the Irish Cultural Centre of A New England Studio and 1-Bedroom Apartments Available Join us every Thursday, Friday or Saturday at the ICCNE Pub for Live Irish Music and Great Food. in the desirable Cedar Grove section of Dorchester. Best Prices around! Pub Opens at 5PM on Thursday and 6PM on Friday and Saturday. Studios reasonably priced at $750.00; Open to the Public! 1-bedroom units at $925.00; July 24th: Featured Friday Instrument Workshop with Renowned Irish Flutist, Skip Healy. heat and hot water included. Program begins at 6:30 PM. Short walk to the Red Line. Free off-street Parking. July 25th: Night of Irish Culture at the Brockton Washing Machines and Dryers in building. Rox Baseball Game. Come along for a fun family evening of Irish Step Dance, Music, Food, Fun and Call Michael at 617.364.4000 More. Tickets are $8 per person with a portion of the proceeds going to the Irish Cultural Centre. Evenings starts at 5PM. Geraghty Associates, Inc. For more information please contact the Irish Property managers Cultural Centre at 781-821-8291 or visit our website at www.irishculture.org. P.O. Box 52, Readville, MA 02137-0052 Tel: 617-364-4000 Fax: 617-364-3157 Page 10 July 2009 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com On the Trail with Michael Flaherty, Who Wants Thomas Menino’s Job By Carol Beggy ther and you’ll see three of Flaherty’s Special to the BIR great-grandparents on his father’s side On a cloudy and rainy weekday morn- were born in County Galway. Flaherty’s ing that makes this particular corner of mom’s family (the McGlones) hails from the city look more like Seattle than Bos- Galway, Monahan, and Cork. ton, City Councillor Michael F. Flaherty Spend some time listening over may- arrives at the Forest Hills T Station and oral candidate Flaherty’s shoulder and starts saying hello to campaign workers you’ll hear a lot about his easy-going and greeting passersby before his feet personal style and the need for a change. actually hit the sidewalk on Washington People are listening to this lifelong resi- Street. dent of South Boston, because, they say, “Hi, I’m Mike Flaherty and I’m running they want to hear some new ideas. for mayor,” he says to a group of women Flaherty, who was president of the waiting on a bench. “We know who you City Council from 2002 to 2006, is in are,” one of the women told Flaherty, the biggest race of his political life as he causing the candidate to laugh out loud. challenges 16-year incumbent Thomas “Well, I still need your support,” Flaherty M. Menino, the mayor who was on cen- replied to woman who said they were ter stage for some of the city’s biggest waiting for a bus to take the group on showcase events: the 2004 Democratic a day-trip to a Connecticut casino. “We Convention, the Patriots winning three need a change,” another woman told NFL titles, the Red Sox winning two Flaherty as the bus pulled up. “And World Series championships, Major some luck.” League Baseball’s All-Star Game, and a Flaherty, an at-large councillor since huge increase in TV and film production 2000, wishes them well, gets the names in the city. Menino has also had to deal and contact information for at least one with a large share of the tough stuff: the member of the group, which was very deaths of firefighters in the line of duty, focused on its own travels, and jots down acrimonious contract negotiations with a few notes on cards with his campaign various unions, economic downturns, information printed on the edges for a and federal mandates, particularly follow-up by his campaign staff. after 9/11. Scenes like this will play out again Flaherty’s strategy for taking on a and again at various spots at the Or- popular and long-serving mayor who is ange Line station this morning and at still engaged in his duties is a simple one: other locations across the city. The next Menino might be “good” but Flaherty morning, Flaherty is scheduled to spend would be “better.” The Flaherty cards a few hours at Roxbury Crossing. A few handed out by campaign volunteers echo nights before he threw out the ceremonial the ads that have been sprouting up on first pitch at English High School’s field the tops of taxis, showing up in local to kick off the American Legion team’s newspapers, and popping up on the vari- Councillor Flaherty looks for voters to persuade at the Forest Hills T Sta- season. ous online forums and social networking tion. Carol Beggy photo sites. Today, the cards show a computer It is the candidate’s personal touch that city is good and it can be, and should be, solve today’s problems with 16-year-old won over Kim Hargaden, Ward 19 coordi- circa 1988 with the word “good” below it. On the flip side of the card is a spanking better,” Flaherty said in between talking solutions.” nator for the Flaherty campaign who was with potential supporters as they made Flaherty said these mornings out at the station greeting people before her new Apple “Air” laptop with the word “better” and www.michaelflaherty.com their way through the turnstiles to catch visiting city communities help move candidate arrived. “For the [American an Orange Line train. him beyond his daily schedule. He and Legion] team and the players and their running along the bottom of the card. Some politicos in the city thought Fla- Menino, Flaherty, Councillor at-Large his wife Laurene live in the same South families, this is a huge undertaking. Mike Sam Yoon, and businessman Kevin Mc- Boston neighborhood where he grew Flaherty understands what it means herty might be taking a risk using this strategy, but it seems to be catching on. Crea are all on the ballot, making for up with their four children, Patrick, to live and work in the city,” Hargaden one of the largest preliminary races in Michael, and twins Elizabeth and Jack. said. “I’m working for him because he’s So much so that anyone can submit an idea. An old light bulb is “good,” but a recent history. The four face off on Sept. The candidate is a partner with the law out here now, as a City Councillor and 22, with the final election set for Nov. firm Adler Pollock & Sheehan, and keeps a candidate for mayor, listening to what new mercury vapor light bulb is “better.” A few ideas trickle into the campaign’s 3. Flaherty thinks he has “just” enough a full City Council schedule dominated people want for the future.” time to change a few minds about whom these days by special meetings on the Flaherty’s Irish roots are as deep as website every day. “Look, I’ll take responsibility for what they will support. “It’s about getting out 2010 budget, a process that probably those his family planted in Boston a there and getting in front of people, let- will continue beyond July 1, the start few generations ago. His parents were I’ve done while in office and what I haven’t been able to do. I’m just saying that our ting them realize they have an option of the fiscal year. born in Boston, but look back a bit fur- when they go to cast their ballot. And “I like this part of the campaign. I getting my points across and my issues like it when people open up or invite heard.” me into their home. That’s very special,” Flaherty appears to be winning some says Flaherty. “And you never know small victories, on the issues front. On what you’re going to hear or what their “Wet Day, Dingle” the day he is scheduled to meet a reporter concerns are.” in Forest Hills, his team apologizes for Flaherty looks around and returns to him being 15 minutes late. He’s on the his pitch: “I’m Mike Flaherty and I’m radio with WBZ because Menino has just running for mayor.” As if on cue, people come out in support of charter schools, begin to approach. One man pulls the a position Flaherty and rival Sam Yoon candidate aside, digs a copy of his re- had both endorsed just days before. sume out of his bag, and asks Flaherty “I can say that I like Mayor Menino’s to keep him in mind if he hears of any position on charter schools because it’s jobs while also imploring him to see what my position on charter schools, that the kinds of people are finding themselves city needs to get out front of our under- unemployed. performing schools and find new ways Another man, Michael Hampton of to deal with that. Glad I could point the Mattapan, spots Flaherty from behind way for him,” Flaherty said in between and yells, “Go Mike! We need a change.” chatting with people moving through Flaherty asks Hampton if he’d put a the T station. sign on his house or some other show of A former Suffolk County assistant support and Hampton replies that he district attorney, Flaherty has been vocal would, but “I’m only one vote. Only one.” about the city’s crime rate. His campaign Flaherty doesn’t miss a beat: “One at a points to the more than 1,000 homicides time. Thanks.” in Menino’s 16 years as mayor. In turn, A kindergarten teacher at St. Anne the mayor’s people are quick to note that School in Readville hands Flaherty a in the 16 years before he took office there thank you note from her young charges, were almost 1,600 homicides in the city. whom Flaherty had visited a couple of Another issue Flaherty has been push- days before. The teacher’s reaction to Lithograph from original watercolor by Dublin artist ing is the modernization of city services, finding Flaherty at the Forest Hills T Tom Roche - each signed individually, Matted and framed pointing to New York City’s extensive 311 Station was a mix of happiness at again in gold wood 12” x 14” $75.00. system that allows residents to report seeing the politician who had generously problems to live dispatchers 24 hours a given her students his time and a tinge day, and the real-time “e-policing” data of regret for having “just” put a stamp systems used by Los Angeles to recognize on the envelope to drop in the mailbox. Come and visit us to see the problem areas more quickly. “I’m sorry about that,” said Flaherty, splendid selection of fine collectibles Mention to Flaherty that it seems odd referring to the wasted stamp. that someone with his curriculum vitae “Yes, this is the part I really like,” Fla- (Irish heritage, lifelong city neighbor- herty said as he was leaving the station. hood resident, a graduate of Boston The candidate stops to listen to a young College High School, Boston College, and man talk about more jobs programs for Boston University Law School) would be those students who are trying to finish 229 Lincoln Street (Rt. 3A) Hingham, Massachusetts, 02043 considered an outsider, and he flashes high school or get their GED, but prob- his quick smile. “It’s about modernizing ably won’t go to college. Flaherty asks 800-752-9389 the city. It’s about recognizing where the man about what kinds of jobs he Hours: Tues. - Sat. 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m., Sunday noon - 5:00 pm we’ve been and where this city needs to thinks would help solve the problem and go. Our mayor has been in office for 16 wonders how they could get young people email: [email protected] years. That’s a lot of ribbon cuttings, to apply for them. Yes, indeed, he seems www.aisling-gallery.com groundbreakings, and cookies and cof- to enjoy this part of public life. fee meetings. I know we aren’t going to Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com July 2009 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 11 Remembering Father Tom, a ‘Parish Priest’ By Ed Forry Publisher Monsignor Tom McDonnell passed away on Sunday, June 14. The longtime pastor of St. Augustine church in South Boston, he had been living in St. Mary’s rectory, Dedham since the closing of the Southie church, which has been joined with the nearby St. Monica’s on Old Colony Ave. He had successfully battled lung cancer several years ago; the disease had returned, and he continued his work while in treatment. Last October, he went under the care of Good Samaritan Hospice. Fr. Tom did not allow his illness to define his life. Instead, he continued to practice the priestly vocation he believed God had given him, and his was an extraor- dinary ministry. Among his works were the founding of the Simon of Cyrene Society, a program to help the families of children with special needs, and the St. Augustine Food Pantry, which helped feed persons who were hungry, and delivered hot holiday meals to He was a voracious reader and a reflec- shut-ins at Thanksgiving and Christmas. tive thinker, yet he never strayed from Born and raised in Mattapan, he was ordained in the working class neighborhood roots that Rome in 1960, and held advanced degrees in liturgy and dogmatic theology from the Vatican’s Pontifical nurtured him as a boy growing up in St. Gregorian University. He was a voracious reader and Angela’s parish. He did spend five years as a reflective thinker, yet he never strayed from the a professor at St. John’s Seminary, but left working class neighborhood roots that nurtured him as the academy to work in parish life. He had a boy growing up in St. Angela’s parish. He did spend told friends he wanted to be remembered five years as a professor at St. John’s Seminary, but with these two words: “Parish priest.” left the academy to work in parish life. He had told friends he wanted to be remembered with these two words: “Parish priest.” Father Tom’s life was celebrated with a funeral mass In recent years, I was fortunate to become his friend, June 13, the principal celebrant his longtime friend and we published dozens of his spiritual reflections and confessor Bishop John D’Arcy. The church was on the pages of the BIR and the Dorchester Reporter. filled with old friends and his priestly brothers, and a On Monday, June 8, he phoned me and left this mes- reflection was delivered by Bill Bulger. He was laid to sage: “Ed, This is Father Tom. My article is in to the rest in St. Joseph’s Cemetery, West Roxbury. Dorchester Reporter; and second, I was awarded third For now, his friends can perhaps find comfort place in this year’s Catholic Press Association’s awards. in the simple prayer of John Henry Cardinal I just wanted to let you know the good news.” Newman: ”May He support us all the day long, ‘til The award-winning column appeared during Lent the shades lengthen, and the evening comes, and the in the Reporter as well as in The Pilot, and the judges busy world is hushed, and the fever of life is over, and commented: “McDonnell extracts just two words from our work is done. Then in His mercy, may He grant the Scriptures -- ‘I thirst’ -- and uses them as a spring- us a safe lodging, and holy rest, and peace at last.” board for a surprising number of theological reflections.” For Fr. Tom, his work indeed is done- and he did it Reflections His final piece appears below. so very, very well! One Last Column: The Infinity of Littleness The mention of the Infinite usually leads us to ponder We know from the Gospel, how Christ’s heart was “Soul of Christ, be my sanctification, how the universe – vast as it is – cannot encompass pierced on the cross and how blood and water flooded Body of Christ, be my salvation the greatness of our God. The discoveries of the Hubble from His side. In an analogous way, we might say that Blood of Christ, run through my veins Telescope reinforces our amazement at the handiwork Christ’s Heart is continually being broken by those who Water of Christ, wash away my stains” of our God. are ungrateful for his sacrifice or who casually reject The prayer is sacramental in context. The water But I believe there is another type of infinity which the overtures of His love. reminds us of the cleansing water of Baptism. It is a is also a characteristic of our God – an infinity of But His heart shows infinite patience in the sense reference to the water which poured out of Christ’s side littleness – best understood by meditating upon the that Christ continually invites us to respond to His on the cross. And it reminds us of how the sacrament Heart of Jesus. And since we celebrate the Feast of the love. He is truly forgetful of the past. And the words of reminds us of how we should accept dying as a way of Sacred Heart of Jesus in the month of June, it seems the prophet Isaiah remain true – “though your sins are life: dying to self and self-will to live the redemptive appropriate to reflect upon some of the qualities of the scarlet, they shall become white as snow.” In a redemp- life as children of God. infinity of littleness. tive paradox we are washed clean by His blood. Finally, “there is the Blood of Christ.” Such energizes We know that the heart is a small muscle. Yet it radi- I believe that Christ’s heart is also broken by the our being. And His blood is inexhaustible, infinite as ates an infinite Love. Into it is squeezed every person indifference of so many who do not pay attention to it were, to become the life-force for so many. who ever lived. It is a Heart which carried each one His words and accept His values. It is perhaps this We might conclude this reflection with two thoughts. of us to the Cross. And one of His greatest pains was indifference and lack of appreciation which pains Him First of all, the letter to the Hebrews reminds us that the thought of losing one of us. the most. All of us, at times must spend some quiet the Lord loves to intercede. He is constantly praying Because His Love radiates from the Heart, He is time, praying before a picture of the Sacred Heart or for us – with the marks of His Passion still in His res- looking for our love in exchange for the love which before a crucifix. It in such silent moments that our urrected and ascended Body. And it would be difficult He lavishes upon us. His desire from the beginning appreciation of the Lord’s love for us grows. The verse for the Father to ignore His prayers, seeing the sign was and is for a mutuality of love: our acceptance of of an old Irish poem was correct – after noting how we of His love which led Him to accept the cross. His love and our willingness to turn our love toward often pray as if giving a sermon to God – that “only in The second point is overlooked. In the prayer on Him. It is this thought which we should be reminded silence does the Infinite speak to us.” the Agony in the Garden, Christ actually sweat blood. of when we hear the words of Consecration: “my blood On another level, we are reminded of the verse from Such was His intensity – an intensity which He brings shed for you.” the ancient prayer “Anima Christi,” to His prayers. An Appreciation: Just Dave

By John Philip Foley a radio reporter in Lawrence. and the Ladies from the Ancient has been a leading organizer Special to the BIR On my way to work every morn- Order of Hibernians were hang- in all things Irish. Dave’s fin- ing I would stop into the police ing drapes and helping Helen gerprints would be on many To his best friends, Dave department and review the log into new clothes. of the brochures for the differ- Burke was an absolute pain in book for newsworthy arrests. I called Dave the next day and ent Irish heritage and history the ass. He was always asking One winter morning I did a story said I wanted to do a story about events that have taken place for something. about an older woman I had how he and the community had in Massachusetts over the past Can you pick up an Irish visi- found sleeping in a chair in the responded to help a woman forty years. tor at Logan Airport? lobby of the police department. down on her luck. Dave stood up for human Can you draft a press release Her name was Helen, she was “What are you [expletive] rights and challenged a flawed

RIP, Dave Burke, on an Irish speaker? in her 70’s and she had been stupid?” Dave yelled at me over judicial system that produced And Dave’s all time favorite burned out of her apartment. the phone. Trying to hide my numerous miscarriages of A Legendary “can you send a check?” She had no family, nothing but shock at his response, I asked justice in the North of Ireland What made Dave so special the clothes on her back and she him why no follow up story. He when it was dangerous to do Hibernian is that the favors were never, was living on the street. said “do you know how many so. He educated many Irish- David R. Burke, the leading ever for him. Dave was always Minutes after I read the story federal and state housing laws Americans as to what was hap- voice in the Lawrence Hibernian working for others and he was on the air there was a voice on I broke to take care of that pening in the North and he was community for more than a half never looking for any type of the telephone telling me “she woman. I’d go to prison.” one of the leading organizing century, died on Wed., May 27, recognition for himself. And his will have a roof over her head Then why’d you do it? I asked. forces that united the Irish in at Caritas Holy Family Hospital friends know that over the past tonight.” Who are you? I asked. The reply was simple and typi- American into Irish-America. in Methuen, of cancer. forty years there has been no “Dave Burke, Lawrence Hous- cal Dave: “Because she needed No one asked him to give up A highly decorated and re- job, too large or too small, that ing Authority.” the help.” He didn’t worry his nights and weekend to do spected member of the Ancient Dave did not do himself. He That same day I received a about the forms and the paper- it; Dave just did it. Order of Hibernians, Burke would go from being the Master call to go to a housing complex work; Dave just did it. Dave truly believed that was widely known for his ef- of Ceremonies at a lunch where to see how Helen was doing. I don’t know how many people through his daily efforts one forts to promote peace in the he introduced the Governor to When I arrived, the Red Cross Dave helped over the years but man can make a difference for Motherland. being the guy who folded the was delivering a second hand there were many. He spent good in this world. Like ev- He leaves his wife of 41 years chairs and hauled away the bedroom set; the Salvation thirty-five years at the Law- erything else, Dave didn’t talk Patricia C. (Jurewicz) Burke and trash. Dave just did it. Army had already provided a rence Housing Authority, and about it; Dave just did it. a son, Kevin P., of Lawrence. I first met Dave when I was small kitchen table and chairs for the past four decades he Page 12 July 2009 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com

Thirteen students of Dorchester’s Pope John Paul II Catholic Academy quite some time,” said Mary Swanton, Fine Arts Director at the Academy. “We performed at a breakfast held in honor of the President of Ireland on Tues- are thankful to the Irish American Partnership and to President McAleese day, May 28. The breakfast was sponsored by the Irish American Partnership for providing us with such a special opportunity.” (IAP). The students, who attend the Dorchester Central Campus of the Pope The students surprised president McAleese by playing “Green Glens of Ant- John Paul II Catholic Academy, were anxious to show their violin talents to rim,” a song from the President’s hometown in Belfast County. The president the foreign dignitary. responded by explaining the origin of the song and reciting the lyrics to the “Our young violinists have been practicing and preparing for this event for students. Photo courtesy PJPII Academy

President McAleese at the State House (above with Sen. Marian Walsh and Gov. Deval Patrick); receiving a 2009 Solas Award from the Irish Immigration Ctr (at right with Solas committee members.) ADVERTISEMENT Co-operation Ireland Plans Irish-American Cycling Event To Foster Peace, Reconciliation In September 2009, (September 22-29) 50 cyclists For today’s ride, Co-operation Ireland cyclists start out from all parts of Ireland, North and South are undertak- cycling from the Atlantis Motor Inn in Gloucester MA, to ing the challenge of cycling approx 350 miles over 5 Rockport on the tip of Cape Ann for a visit to Bearskin days through some of the most beautiful scenery in New Neck or a walk at Halibut Point State Park. Circling back England in support of Ireland’s leading peace-building to Gloucester, the full 67 mile route takes participants along charity, Co-operation Ireland. The charity is celebrating the Cape Ann coastline to Magnolia, Manchester By the its 30th anniversary of fostering peace and reconciliation Sea, Beverly, and Salem, with a range of distance options. in Northern Ireland/Republic of Ireland. They’re hoping After a short ride out to the Eastern Point Lighthouse, we that local riders in the US will take time out to join those return to the Atlantis Motor Inn in Gloucester. Discount coming from Ireland in the bike ride and help raise funds group hotel rate available. for the charity. for nights of Friday, September 25 and Saturday Co-operation Ireland will offer two one-day options September 26. and a weekend option. One-Day Coastal Option 2- The minimum charity contribution/cost for CI The minimum contribution/cost for each single-day Arrive Thursday evening, September 24 cycling participation is $595, and includes Hub cycling option is $500.Cyclists are encouraged to have Fri, Sept 25: Coastal New Hampshire on Wheel registration ($45) free hotel parking friends and family support their efforts, to raise even and secure bike storage for registered guest, and more. Registration includes breakfast, evening meal, and from Amesbury, MA Co-operation Ireland jacket and t-shirt Co-operation Ireland jacket and t-shirt. Availability of Today cyclists discounted group–rate hotel double occupancy rooms in ride from the Gloucester and Newbury Port/Amesbury for single-day Fairfield Inn For further details, please contact Co-operation options, and in Boston for the weekend option. in Amesbury, Ireland’s Office in New York on +1 (212) 572 4832 MA for 30 miles or email [email protected] or register online at along the New www.cooperationireland.org One-Day Coastal Option 1 – Hampshire coast Co-operation Ireland was founded in 1979 (as Arrive Tuesday evening, September 22 to Portsmouth, Co-operation North) in the midst of the ‘troubles’, Wed, Sept 23: Cape Ann – Salem loop New Hampshire by Dr. Brendan O’Regan a businessman and en- . Distance op- trepreneur. from Gloucester, MA tions are 43 and Today, Co-operation Ireland is the largest, con- 66 miles. Cy- tinuously-operating non-governmental organiza- clists return to Amesbury through rural New tion dedicated to promoting better cross-border Hampshire for 43 miles, and an extra loop through and cross-community relation in Ireland and charming Andover, NH for the full 66 miles. Northern Ireland. A non-political, non-religious voluntary organization with offices in Belfast, Dublin, London, Weekend Option 3--Golden and New York, Co-operation Ireland works to make lasting peace a reality and relies on support Shamrock/Hub on Wheels-Friday- from corporations, foundations, government, and September 25-Sunday, September 27 peoples of all backgrounds in Ireland, Britain and Weekend package available, including cycling the United States. entry into Boston’s ‘Hub on Wheels’ Bike Ride on Since its founding almost 30 years ago, Co-op- Sunday, September, and access to discounted- rate eration Ireland has grown to be the largest peace Boston hotel double-occupancy accommodations charity in Ireland. Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com July 2009 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 13 Once A Novitiate, Bethany Hill School Now ‘A Place to Call Home’ Bethany Hill School in Framingham was designed The footprint of the building has changed very inclusion and acceptance. Residents are empowered to and developed by the Sisters of Saint Joseph of Boston little from the original novitiate residence. Inside, progress toward their goals and to be their best selves in partnership with the South Middlesex Opportunity the marble staircases, high ceilings, tall windows and in a safe, supportive environment. Council (SMOC) and other program sponsors in the spacious corridors stand as reminders of a rich past On April 2, a 15th anniversary celebration, “A Place Boston/MetroWest area. The property had served for and a place where one can find comfort, acceptance to Call Home,” was held at Regis College, Weston. many years as a novitiate building. In 1994, the 1920’s- and peace.The mission of Framingham’s Bethany Hill Over 200 guests attended, and special recognition was era building located on a 100-acre pastoral setting was School, a living and learning community of neighbors, extended to Boston philanthropist Jack Connors. converted to community housing for the underserved is to provide affordable, independent housing with Photos by Bill Brett, and Bethany Hill School opened its doors. educational opportunities within a climate of respect, courtesy Bethany Hill School.

From left: Honored guest Jack Connors of Brook- Patti Brett of Dorchester and Sr. Zita Fleming of Tom Grassia and Barbara Carney, both of Way- line and guest speaker Nicholas Fillman of Fram- Brighton land ingham.

John E. Drew of Hingham and his son, John P. Drew From left: Sister Lee Hogan of Brighton, Sister Mary L. Murphy of Brighton, Sister Jacquelyn McCarthy of Scituate. of Newton, and Sister Marilyn McGoldrick of Brighton. Page 14 July 2009 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com Boston irish Boston Irish Arts, Entertainment, Travel & More ForR eporterChildsplay, It’s Very Much All in the Family By Sean Smith Special to the BIR Every year for the past two decades and more, Cambridge resident and violin maker Bob Childs has organized a family reunion that is unique in a few ways – including the fact that none of the participants are technically related to him. Childs is the guiding force and namesake for Child- splay, an ensemble of two dozen or so musicians performing fiddle music mainly from Irish, Scottish, Cape Breton, Scandinavian, French Canadian, and American folk traditions. His most distinctive contribution? He made all the fiddles and violas used in the group. Those who have taken up the bow at one time or another for Childsplay, along with Childs himself, include Laurel Martin, Hanneke Cassel, Steve Hick- man, Sheila Falls Keohane, Mary Lea, Mark Simos, Lissa Schneckenburger, Sam Amidon, Joe and Graham DeZarn, and Dave Langford. Among the non-fiddling contributors have been flute, whistle and accordion Childsplay regulars include (l-r) Keith Murphy, Hanneke Casell, Shannon Heaton and Aoife player Shannon Heaton, guitarist Keith Murphy, vo- O’Donovan. calist Aoife O’Donovan, cellist Ariel Friedman, string Photo by Arthur Ferguson bassist Ralph Gordon, and dancers Pierre Chartrand and Kieran Jordan. power in words, that one’s capacity for expression can The 2009 edition of Childsplay performed at the Bob Childs Has keep developing, especially when you are around people Cambridge River Festival and in New York City last who constantly encourage and inspire you to explore month to mark the release of its fifth CD, “Waiting for the means of expression.” the Dawn,” and is preparing for a series of concerts Personal Connection This emphasis on expression is certainly evident this December, including at Somerville Theater (Dec. on “Waiting for the Dawn”; whatever the numbers of 5) and The National Heritage Museum in Lexington to the Music His musicians playing at any given time – whether the full (Dec. 6). ensemble or a duo or trio – and whatever the origin or As Childs sees it, his bond with this group of people Ensemble Plays character of the tune or song in question, emotion is is special and meaningful, and has grown deeper and in more than adequate supply. Right from the get-go, richer over the years. If that’s not a family, he asks, in fact, as the group essays “Rattlin’ Roarin’ Willie,” what is? material. “It started with basically all fiddles, but we the classic tale of the musician who just can’t let go of “There’s a connection you feel in Childsplay that’s wanted to go for a more complex sound, so we began his beloved instrument (yes, it’s a fiddle). Childsplay very different from other bands,” says Childs. “A lot of incorporating bass, guitar, banjo, piano for rhythm, straightens out the song’s familiar frenetic 9/8 rhythm it, of course, has to do with the fact that the featured and later on harp and flute, especially for slower tunes. into a grooving 4/4, Murphy’s guitar pointing the way, instruments are made by one person, and there is a That enabled us to put together more sophisticated and and Cassel and Heaton churning out the Cape Breton consistency to their tone and timbre – a sound that elaborate arrangements, and eventually to expand our “Old Time Wedding Reel” in between the verses, which is familial, although no two are absolutely, exactly repertoire to include songs.” O’Donovan delivers with gusto; then the group launches alike. “Waiting for the Dawn” is Childsplay’s most exten- into “The High Drive,” a joyous four-part reel by the “But there’s more to it than that. Each instrument sive use of vocals to date, with seven of its 13 tracks late Scottish piper Gordon Duncan. that I’ve made becomes a story in and of itself through featuring or incorporating songs led by O’Donovan, with Two other tracks, both with Irish connections, high- the musician who plays it, and through Childsplay occasional harmony supplied by Murphy, Schnecken- light O’Donovan’s presence on the CD. The first is “I’m those stories are given voice together. It’s such a pow- burger and Molly Gawler. As with most other aspects a Youth That’s Inclined to Ramble,” a traditional song erful thing, and even the members of Childsplay who of Childsplay, this development reflects an integration in the form of a dialogue between soon-to-part lovers. play other kinds of instruments are able to share in of musical and personal insights for Childs that reach It’s long been associated with Paul Brady, and with the experience.” back to a less-than-ideal childhood: Childs spent the good reason – his memorable solo rendition gave a This concept of Childsplay as a family unfolds in other first few years of his life in foster homes until he was stark and edgy feel to the lyrical conversation, as if to ways. Within the group, over the years, have been mar- adopted, and the mystery of his birth parents’ identities accentuate the imminent sense of loss. But Childsplay riages and births, as well as illnesses and losses, and nagged at him until well past adulthood. He often tells takes the song to a different atmosphere, where lush, voices representing a new generation are joining the of a dream he had some years ago, of trying to enter gentle strings build underneath O’Donovan’s wispy, ranks: When Joe DeZarn took part in the first Child- a country and being led by a border guard to a room quiet voice; it’s a full-bodied declaration of regret and splay concert, in 1987, his son Graham – now 24, and in which there was a violin, inlaid with the image of resolve. a regular participant – was a toddler, almost the age a small boy crying. And then there’s the medley comprising U2’s that Childs’s son Liam is now; Friedman and O’Donovan “I came to realize, eventually, that crafting violins had “Mothers of the Disappeared” – a tribute to victims in weren’t in elementary school yet, and Schneckenburger been a way to give voice to a part of myself for which Argentina’s “dirty war” – and Cassel’s original tune and Amidon hadn’t reached junior high. I had no form of expression,” he says. “So integrating “The Evenstar.” Cassel, in fact, did a smaller-scale, in- Furthermore, as Childs explains, the group as a voice with violin is part of my own maturation, as well strumental version of this set (with O’Donovan on back- whole has grown and changed in terms of its scope and as that of Childsplay – the revelation that there is a (Continued on page 16) Berklee College Forges a Program to Lure More Irish Students to Campus

By R. J. Donovan series of workshops that allowed this month and participate with Special to The BIR 50 students from Ireland and roughly 900 other students in Founded in 1945, Berklee beyond the opportunity to study Berklee’s five-week Summer College of Music was the first and interact with members of Performance Program, now in school in the United States to Berklee’s renowned faculty. its 21st year and touted as the offer formal training in jazz. Additionally, representatives largest and most comprehensive Today its reputation spans all from the school’s admissions summer music program in the musical genres and its student office were on hand to audition world. body is an international melting students for summer scholar- The idea for Berklee In Dublin pot of individuals from more ships. The workshop sessions was inspired by Bill Whelan, than 70 countries. were held at The Dublin Insti- who felt that Irish students were Berklee has long maintained a tute of Technology while the underrepresented at the school. variety of connections with Ire- auditions took place at Dublin’s The challenge became, how to land. To start, Damien Bracken, Newpark Music Centre. draw more young Irish musi- the school’s Dean of Admis- The seven-day event included cians to Boston by providing sions, is from Dublin as well as master classes, performances, a diverse experience that was a graduate of Trinity College style labs, lectures, and a special both artistic and educational. Dublin. Beyond that, renowned address by Bill Whelan. On the Said Bracken, “[Bill] felt our Irish flautist Brian Dunning final night, students and faculty approach should be to go meet attended Berklee; U2 guitarist took over the downtown club with the educators, not just in The Edge received an honorary Shebeen Chic for a dual jam Dublin but all over Ireland and doctor of music degree in 2007; session of jazz and traditional get a sense of what they felt and “Riverdance” composer Bill music. would bring value . . . in terms Whelan, a member of Berklee’s At the closing event, two of the kind of expertise that Board of Directors since 2007, deserving Irish students -- Berklee has, and what students has brought “Riverdance” mu- vocalist Karen Cowley from might be looking for in their sicians to the school to conduct Bray, Wicklow, and bassist programs. So we did a trip a master classes. Isaac Hayes from Feakle, Imogen Gunner, an English violinist who has been living year ago in March. We traveled This past April, the school Clare -- were among the four in Ireland for many years, was one of 50 students who all over the country. We visited cranked things up a notch when students awarded full-tuition participated in the Berklee in Dublin workshop in April schools in Belfast and Limerick it launched Berklee In Dublin, a scholarships to come to Boston at the Dublin Institute of Technology. (Continued on page 15) Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com July 2009 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 15 until well along in life, but he’s more than made up for Based on how well the last “All Chorus Songs” night lost time, appearing at BCMFest, Irish Connections went, Smith feels there’s every reason to think this Festival, New England Folk Festival and other festivals month’s “encore” will be equally popular. “Boston is and concert venues in New England. He also organizes just a great singing community, especially when it BCMFest’s annual music cruise in Gloucester Harbor. comes to folk and traditional music. You’ve got Rev- In 2003, O’Leary was co-recipient of a Massachusetts els, the monthly MIT Chantey Sing, events at the Cultural Council Traditional Arts Apprenticeship grant Irish Cultural Centre of New England, for example, that enabled him to study the traditional Irish sean and any number of semi- or informal get-togethers at nos singing style from Bridget Fitzgerald. pubs, coffeehouses or private homes. It doesn’t matter A column of news and updates of the Boston Celtic Scottish native Jerry Bell is known as an all-around whether or not you’re a ‘professional’ singer; the point Music Fest (BCMFest), which celebrates the Boston entertainer, raconteur, and life of the party, keeping is simply to participate, to add your voice to those of area’s rich heritage of Irish, Scottish, Cape Breton mu- audiences in stitches when he’s not leading them in everyone around you.” sic and dance with a grassroots, musician-run winter songs. But Bell’s interest in folk and traditional music And that, Smith adds, dovetails neatly with BC- music festival and other events during the year. runs deep and assumes many forms: He is an avid MFest’s community-participation doctrine. “People All Together Now, Again fiddle player in the Scottish style (although hecan don’t want to be just passive consumers of music – they During its two years of existence, BCMFest’s Celtic more than hold his own in an Irish session), a superb like to feel engaged,” he explains. “BCMFest is built Music Monday series at Club Passim in Harvard Square bagpiper, and more than proficient on such instru- around that, whether it’s inviting members of the has featured fiddles, flutes, accordions, pipes, even the ments as flute, guitar, bodhran and banjo. Bell and Boston music community to apply to perform at the bones and bodhran. But the instrument in focus this his wife Nancy also have earned the Parent’s Choice festival, to volunteer for BCMFest, or to get up and month will be the human voice – and it won’t just be Gold Award for their family-oriented folk music, stories dance at the Boston Urban Ceilidh. And with Celtic sounding from the stage. and dance programs. Music Monday, BCMFest tries to organize events that On July 13, at 8 p.m., Celtic Music Monday presents Sean Smith took up traditional music back in high engage people in some way, whether it’s a ‘trad to the “All Chorus Songs, All the Time (Reprise),” a repeat school and has played in the Boston area for some 25 bone’ kind of presentation, or one with a more modern performance of a concert held last December that years, appearing as a soloist, in bands, or in collabo- approach to Celtic music. proved such a crowd-pleaser that BCMFest organizers ration with other musicians at venues such as Club “So, a night of chorus songs,” Smith adds, “is about decided to bring it back for another round. Passim, ICONS, the Blackstone Valley Celtic Festival, as participatory and engaging as you can get.” The featured performers for the July 13 event are the Elysium Arts Folk Club, as well as the Concerts Smith says there will doubtless be some “old famil- all well-versed in leading sing-alongs, whether on at the Captain’s House and Notlob Kitchen Concerts iars” sung at the concert, but the event also can be stage, in pubs and parlors, and in less conventional series. A member of the BCMFest board of directors, an opportunity for some to learn a new song or two. settings -- even on the deck of a boat cruising around he is a co-organizer and frequent emcee for the Celtic “Our motto is, ‘If you don’t know the chorus already, a harbor. Music Monday series and instigator of the “traditional you will.’” Lynn Noel is a familiar figure in the Greater Boston Celtic Music Monday sing-along” that often begins Tickets for Celtic Music Monday are $12, $6 for folk song scene, as a member of the Gloucester Hornpipe each show. members of Club Passim, WGBH and WUMB. For and Clog Society (which performed at BCMFest 2009) (O’Leary, Bell and Smith also are notorious for their reservations, go to www.clubpassim.org or call 617- and a leader of regularly occurring sea chantey and random appearances and offerings of whimsical, hu- 492-7679. pub sings in the area, such as The Skellig in Waltham. morous – if not downright sophomoric – songs during All a-Twitter She is a fine instrumentalist, accompanying herself on BCMFest’s Saturday schedule.) BCMFest is already on Facebook and Myspace, as guitar and mountain dulcimer, but her unaccompanied This quartet promises a selection of chorus songs well as the Web. And now, BCMFest has joined Twitter. singing is equally, if not more, powerful. Noel also has that runs the gamut from comic to serious, from Celtic Just go to twitter.com and search for “BCMFest.” appeared on several recordings, including Gloucester traditions to more contemporary sources, and on all For more information on BCMFest, see bcmfest.com; Hornpipe and Clog Society’s 2008 release “Liberty!” manner of subjects: love, work, drink, war and fellow- you can also sign up for the BCMFest e-mail list via Michael O’Leary didn’t think of himself as a singer ship, to name a few. the Web site. Berklee College Looks to Lure More Irish Students to Campus (Continued from page 14) improvisation has been a to a very broad range of the waters to see if Berklee Berklee In Dublin was ing, Marketing Issues in and Dublin and Cork, constant. people from all over the is a good fit for them.” not only strengthening the Music Industry, Sound just meeting with the One of the things world. And a very broad With its alumni rang- Berklee’s identity in Ire- Design for Animation, principals of the schools Bracken was particularly range of musical styles.” ing from Quincy Jones land, but correcting the Financial Management and some of the educa- pleased with in Dublin The Summer Perfor- and Aimee Mann to John common misperception for Musicians, and Music tors and kind of assessing was the diversity of indi- mance Program is a sort Mayer, Gary Burton, Ju- that Berklee is solely for in Psychotherapy, among what would really work viduals who participated. of pre-college immersion liana Hatfield, Branford jazz musicians. “That’s others. for us. And we came up He said, “Out of the 50 program that Bracken de- Marsalis, Kevin Eubanks, primarily what Berklee From rock to pop, Latin, with this concept of teach- people, 22 were from scribes as “a compressed and Alf Clausen (“The is known for abroad,” R&B, hip-hop, electronica ing improvisation across Ireland.” They also had version of what the full Simpsons”), Berklee of- he said. “And so it was and bluegrass, music is styles. Improvisation is students from Italy, Por- time Berklee experience fers a mission statement an opportunity for me to constantly evolving. And traditionally thought of tugal, Spain, Germany. is like. Students come with a simple philosophy: talk about how we teach Berklee is intent on evolv- as a jazz-centric skill . . . “And then we had one stu- and they have ensemble “Berklee was founded on the music business, music ing with it by constantly but it applies, of course, to dent come from Mexico.” experiences; they have two revolutionary ideas: production engineering, adapting and updating its every songwriter. By vir- Overall, it was an interest- private lessons with a that musicianship could and many other non-per- curriculum and learning tue of the fact that they’re ing group, ranging from faculty member; they be taught through the formance-centric courses.” lab technology to reflect composing music, they’re pop to classical, jazz and have courses in music music of the time; and that A quick glance through what’s current and vital improvising; they’re just rock. He said, “It was a improvisation and theory, our students need practi- the college’s admissions to the business. Explor- taking a different ap- really great cross section ear training. We also have cal, professional skills for catalog verifies that di- ing new talent through proach to improvising.” geographically. And very visiting artists come on successful, sustainable versity with courses that programs like Berklee Clearly, from the mas- Berklee-esque. That’s campus.” Additionally, “it music careers.” include Music and Sound In Dublin is an inte- ters of the classical world more of what the Berklee tends to be a younger age As Dean of Admissions, Production for Games, gral part of the process. to the emerging artists experience is like. When group, 16 and 17 year olds Bracken said one of his Computer/Synthesis Ap- of the new millennium, you come, you’re exposed . . . they’re kind of testing challenges in executing plications for Film Scor- Page 16 July 2009 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com For Childsplay, It’s Very Much All in the Family (Continued from page 14) ing vocals for “Evenstar”) on her 2004 album “Some Melodious Sonnet.” In this setting, Gordon’s bass and Murphy’s guitar provide a literal and metaphorical pulse [“Hear their heartbeat/hear their heartbeat”], and Heaton’s accordion a church harmonium-like quality, while the massed fiddles collectively serve as a backing choir to a soulful O’Donovan. “Aoife was the perfect person for this new direction,” says Childs. “She is comfortable with so many kinds of music, whether it’s Irish/Celtic, bluegrass, old-timey, pop and contemporary, and there’s something about her voice that meshes with the violins just in the right way. So we tried to come up with arrangements that made a space for her voice, and in the mixing and mastering process the intent was to get Aoife into the center of the sound.” O’Donovan also comes to the fore- front on the traditional “Sweet Sunny South,” Steve Earle’s “Christmas in Washington,” Boston songwriter Mark Simos’s “non-denominational” gospel song “Tears of Healing Rain” (aided and abetted by harmonies from Murphy and Gawler) and even “Love Me Tender,” which Childs explains is a lullaby he and his wife sing to his son – here it’s de-Elvised with the help of Kathleen Guilday’s harp. The instrumental-only tracks do not lack for the aforementioned expressive- ness, either. They range from a pairing of Boston area Irish flutist Shannon Heaton is among the more recent additions to the ranks of Childsplay. Murphy’s relentless 7/8 tune “SamSam Photo by Arthur Ferguson. Amidon” (with an equally relentless piano) and the Michael Coleman clas- The mix of traditions evidenced in to make it happen.” of ideas, because after all these are sic “Good Morning to Your Night Cap,” the aforementioned sets is a big part of For Childs, one of the most enjoyable of very creative people. John McGann has on which Amidon and Heaton take the what makes Childsplay appealing to its the CD’s instrumental sets was the trio described Childsplay as ‘large, but very lead, to a medley of “Compliments to participants, notes Childs. “Everybody written by Irish fiddle legend Liz Car- democratic.’ I think that’s why people Cameron Chisholm” and the title track, comes from different traditions and roll: “Liam Childs/Balkin’ Balkan/The have stayed so invested in it.” written by Cassel, to the Pete Sutherland backgrounds, so that means we all have E-B-E Reel.” “The arrangement came Perhaps it’s this facet of Childsplay, waltz “Soir Et Matin,” which Childsplay to stretch, and people love it. The group together in about five minutes, just more than any other, which for Childs dedicates to New England fiddler Kerry is kind of like its own music camp: We’ve totally spontaneous and on the spot. I evokes what might be called the pre- Elkin, who was diagnosed two years had Swedish players teach Scandinavian especially like how the ‘Balkin’ Balkan’ industrial dynamic of his vocation. In ago with multiple sclerosis (Childs says style fiddling, a classical player learn came out, where it sounds like fiddles an era where even musical instruments putting this track together was one of Irish bowing. Everyone wants to achieve climbing up a vine.” are mass-produced – or else their mak- the more emotional experiences for the a high level of performance, and it’s In fact, Childs says, putting together a ers are essentially anonymous – it is an group). great to see the commitment and desire Childsplay production usually requires increasingly rare, and wonderful, thing a good dollop of time, patience, and co- for a craftsman to have a relationship ordination, since most of its members with those who buy his wares, especially are full-time touring musicians. “We try when that rapport extends well beyond to think about a year ahead. We’ll find the shop. a common week or two where people “When I realized what it meant to me can do a few concerts, and then it’s a to make instruments, it drove me to cre- matter of generating ideas and working ate community – and a family, really,” them out.” he says. “Making an instrument for That’s when Childsplay becomes “like someone feels like a life-time connection. a greenhouse,” says Childs: “There’s a The fact that I have an opportunity to very organic quality to the way the music broaden that connection by playing music comes together. I can say, ‘Hey, Hanneke, with that person – and many others – is will you put together a set?’ and they’ll incredibly satisfying. I would hope that, arrange it. But it’s not just a matter of with Childsplay, people can understand people leading arrangements; there’s that it’s possible to have that kind of always an outpouring and an exchange special relationship.”

GERARD’S ADAMS CORNER 772 - 776 Adams Street, Dorchester, MA 02124 617-282-6370 A STORE Open 5:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., 7 Days a Week A RESTAURANT Open 6:30 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., 7 Days a Week For all your catering: functions, christenings, weddings, banquets, funerals, anniversaries, surprise parties, etc. Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com July 2009 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 17 described the so-called Celtic (“Hard Times”), Hank Williams Tiger as “a mangy alley-cat (“Ramblin’ Man”), Bob Dylan BIR Music scavenging the bins around (“You Ain’t Goin’ Nowhere” and the crumbling mansions of the “Wanted Man”), Randy New- Western economy.”) man (“Marie”) and Kris Kristof- CD Roundup That said, however, “The ferson (“The Pilgrim: Chapter Connemara Suite” is the culmi- 33”), among others (although, By Sean Smith nation of a project that began to be pedantic about it, “Lay some years ago (back when Bear Down Sally” was co-written by Special to the BIR Stearns and Lehman Brothers England’s own Eric Clapton). still roamed the earth), when Whelan was asked to write The album is not without its charms, and it helps Maura O’Connell: “Naked with Friends” -- Who knew Maura O’Connell carried such a chip on her pieces for the Irish Chamber Orchestra. As Whelan that the backing musicians – including Simpson on shoulder? OK, that’s overstating things a bit. But still, -- who, let us not forget, has also worked in film and piano and fiddler Aubrey Richmond – are more than in her notes for this CD -- her first in five years since television and played with Planxty, for crying out loud competent and the arrangements are generally spot “Don’t I Know” -- O’Connell does appear to evince some -- explains, it was an opportunity “to write for tradi- on. The title track, for example, which is often sung resentment at being regarded as tional musicians within the framework of a chamber as an anthem-like lament, here is nudged along in a “just” a singer: “In interviews orchestra.” The result is a selection of soundscapes -- honky tonk-like groove. Conversely, their slowed-down over the years, I’m always asked “Inishlacken,” “Errisbeg” and “Carna” -- that evoke the version of “Lay Down Sally” has a dreamy, after-hours why I don’t play an instrument scenery and personality of Connemara, with its beloved quality, as if it were being played at closing time at an to accompany myself, or why peninsulas, heaths and grasslands, and its long sea- Oklahoma roadhouse. don’t I write songs.” There are faring history. Joining the Irish Chamber Orchestra All well and good, but to be honest I’m not sure what people who think “every singer are six soloists: classical-crossover fiddler Zoe Conway; the appeal of the CD is unless one is a fan of this trio, is someone’s puppet, that they dance percussionist Colin Dunne (“Riverdance,” “Danc- or indeed of the whole classical-crossover genre (is a are not full invested in the song ing on Dangerous Ground”); harpist Michelle Mulcahy; tribute to Shane McGowan next?). People like Sean -- that they are at the whim of violinist Fionnuala Hunt; and Morgan Crowley, who Keane, Mary Black and Maura O’Connell (see above) a producer or a songwriter or provides vocals and lilting, as does Whelan himself. have been exploring the Irish-American-roots con- a band. Singing has been denigrated like that for too Whatever one thinks of Whelan’s oeuvre, the man can nections for years now, in ways that sound far more long.” certainly conjure up musical imagery: rowboats plowing authentic and convincing. Fortunately, O’Connell has chosen precisely the through water, birds in flight ( a particularly striking right way to deal with whatever insecurities she might duet by Conway and Hunt in the second movement of Barleyjuice: “The Barleyjuice Irish Collection” have suppressed during her storied career as one of “Inishlacken”), or the annual pilgrimage to Macdara’s -- This Philadelphia-based Celtic folk-rock band has this generation’s best Irish female vocalists: Namely, Island -- named for the 6th-century saint who built a been around for more than a de- making an album that puts singing unequivocally church on the island -- and the festivities following it. cade and released four albums, in the spotlight, and in its most exquisite form. The Whelan notes that, since musicians were not always samples from which make up 13 tracks of “Naked with Friends” are all a cappella available to play for dances, lilters often supplied the this double CD. performances by O’Connell and – with the exception music; this bit of cultural history is commemorated Rather than arrange the of three solo tracks -- guests from across the spectrum by an interchange between Dunne, Whelan, Crowley, tracks chronologically, however, of her musical interests, including Dolly Parton, Kate and the orchestra. the band has segregated them Rusby, Tim O’Brien, Mary Black, Jerry Douglas, Alison Periodically you’ll hear some classic “Whelanisms” between the two discs. Disc one, Kraus, Paul Brady, and Greater Boston native Aoife that hearken back to “Riverdance” -- the interweaving “A Night at the Pub,” contains O’Donovan, among others. rhythms in the midst of the “Errisbeg” section, the full- well-worn pub favorites like “All This makes for some intriguing selections, such as the spectrum harmonies in the “Macdara’s” movement of for Me Grog,” “Whiskey in the duets in Gaelic with Brady (“Anach Cuain”) and Douglas “Carna,” or Crowley’s solo early on in the “An Chistin” Jar,” “Nancy Whiskey,” “Mush Mush” and “Real Old (“Mo Sheamuseen”) – he learned the song phonetically movement that concludes the album. But this is defi- Mountain Dew,” and original Barleyjuice compositions, – and the haunting rendition of Holly Near’s “Hay Una nitely not stage-spectacle stuff; it’s stately, atmospheric, among them “Nancy Drinks Tequila,” “Potatoes” and Mujer Desapercida (There Is a Desperate Woman)” with and not a little cerebral. It’s Bill Whelan serving notice (their “ode to the kilt”) “What’s Up Yours?” -- none of O’Connell’s sister Aine Derrane and Sarah Dugas, of that he’s not to be pigeon-holed. which would seem to require much in the way of explana- the Canadian Celtic-bluegrass band The Duhks. She tion. It’s fairly wall-to-wall up-tempo, boozy, scurrilous and O’Brien infuse the much-interpreted traditional The Celtic Tenors: “Hard Times” -- Not to be con- and boorish, with lots of yelps and yee-haws. song of false true love “The Blacksmith” with a per- fused with the Irish Tenors, the Celtic Tenors (Matthew Disc two, “The Morning After,” is supposed to repre- fectly pitched dialogue of tension, and she joins with Gilsenan, James Nelson, and Daryl Simpson) describe sent a contrast, and in fact to a degree it does. The songs Black, Moya Brennan, and Maired Ni Mhaonaigh for themselves as “the most successful classical crossover tend to the more reflective, quiescent or sentimental, a good-spirited take on “I Know My Love” that could artists ever to emerge from Ireland.” These two trios such as “Sally Garden,” “Fiddler’s Green,” “I’ll Tell Me teach The Corrs a thing or two. have covered a lot of similar territory, unleashing their Ma” and “Rosin the Bow,” as well as originals “The O’Donovan and Dugas team up with O’Connell for classically honed talents on various contemporary, Hard Life of Ivan MacCrae” (which has echoes of Ron Cheryl Wheeler’s wistful “Arrow,” which, unaccompa- pop and folk/traditional favorites; the Celtic Tenors’ Hynes’ “Sonny’s Dream”) and “Whiskey to the Sea,” nied, sounds all the more vulnerable and confessional. recorded works range from “Wild Rover,” “Star of a paean to fellowship-among-the-hellraisers. There And one of the CD’s highlights has to be the opening the County Down” and “Danny Boy” to “Here, There is an actual ebb and flow to this disc, as opposed to a track, Jimmy McCarthy’s ethereal “The Bright Blue and Everywhere,” “You Raise Me Up” and even “All continual wave of bacchanalia. Rose,” which gets an almost gospel-like treatment Out of Love” (Air Supply from O’Connell, Parton, Rusby, and The Settles Con- included). nection choir. With “Hard Times,” Beyond a doubt, if anyone still refers to O’Connell the Celtic Tenors have as “just a singer” after hearing this, they haven’t been produced what amounts listening. to an American counter- part to their 2003 “Irish Album”: a roots-oriented Bill Whelan: “The Connemara Suite” -- You can make the case that Bill Whelan, as the composer assortment of Americana of “Riverdance,” helped usher in the modern era of through the ages, covering the Irish/Celtic Extrava- songs by Stephen Foster ganza, represented by Billy Higgins 617-201-6077 the likes of “Lord of the Dance,” “Celtic Woman,” “Celtic Thunder” and CARROLL other sumptuous produc- tions of the past 10-15 Advertising Company, Inc. years. So in these austere times, it’s a little tempting Large Format Printing to view this new release -- quite removed from Billboards • Banners the epic and grandiose -- as some socioeconomic 1022 Morrissey Boulevard, Dorchester indicator, a trend toward 617-282-2100 the smaller scale. (In fact, southillchildrensfund.com Whelan himself last fall carrolladvertising.com BEACHCOMBER 617-479-8989 Wollaston Beach • Quincy, MA EIRE Our 50th Year pub proudly presents Direct from Ireland 795 Adams St. • Dorchester “President’s Choice” BRENDAN GRACE Serving Lunch & Dinner plus INCHICORE Saturday Night - July 11, 2009 Every day, Call for Reservations 7 days a week Every Wednesday is Still “Where the Music Never Stops” KARAOKE www.beachcomberquincy.com Page 18 July 2009 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com Traveling People Note to Travelers to Ireland: Look No Farther, The Cliff House Hotel in Ardmore Has It All By Judy Enright when he was 14, saw his find your way. Special to the BIR future wife during that Is the Cliff House Hotel You can probably imag- visit and refused to return pricey? Well, it would not ine that, over my years as to the States (yes, they are fit into everyone’s budget, a travel writer, I have had still married); Richard, but there are special pack- the opportunity to stay who works in the dining ages and let’s just say that, at countless lovely Irish room and lounge; Helen, for a heavenly splurge, inns, hotels, and manor from housekeeping, and you couldn’t find a nicer, houses. Monica from the dining warmer, friendlier, better Many of these proper- room staff. Every one of place. For more informa- ties have every amenity them was delightful. tion, go to: thecliffhouse- you could ever want from And here’s something hotel.com a place where you really that really struck me. One CONNEMARA only hang your hat for a of my favorite bracelets RESIDENTS night or two. Despite my – sterling, circular links in- There was an interesting acquaintance with so many terspersed with amethysts story recently in the Con- wonderful accommoda- - somehow fell off after I nacht Tribune saying that tions, I stayed this spring put it on that morning. new evidence unearthed at a hotel in Ardmore, Co. I was heartbroken and by archaeologist Michael Waterford, that beats them called back to the hotel. Gibbons, from Clifden, all by a country mile. No one had found it and, suggests there was a large The Cliff House Hotel honestly, I couldn’t say for human presence in the in Ardmore is positively sure whether I lost it there River Corrib catchment The 39-room Cliff House Hotel is a wonderful small hotel on the waterfront in one of the loveliest and or somewhere else; we were area 9,000 years ago. Gib- Ardmore, Co. Waterford, that is well worth a visit if you’re in the area. friendliest hotels I’ve ever in Kinsale when I called bons says the discovery of (Judy Enright photo) encountered in Ireland and had stopped at other two stone axes in Galway -- or anyplace else for that places along the route. City and county suggests Race – with a view to them ing to a decline in consumer at visitdublin.com/golfpass matter – with spotlessly It’s a very nice bracelet there was a Mesolithic pre- stopping in Galway. demand. or you can stop into any clean rooms, a magnifi- and I was dead sure that farming “hunter-gatherer” AER LINGUS AND The Times said the Aer of Dublin Tourism’s four cent, waterfront setting, I would never see it again settlement in Connemara MORE Lingus cuts are part of a information offices: Suffolk friendly and helpful staff, and that whoever found it and in what is now the city I was sorry to read in The wide-ranging effort by the Street, O’Connell Street, and divine food. Manage- would keep it and enjoy it of Galway between 6,000 Irish Times that Aer Lingus airline to trim costs in a Dublin Airport, and at ment at Cliff House has as much as I had. and 9,000 years ago. has announced plans to cut year when it is expected the Dun Laoghaire Ferry raised accommodation to But, to my complete sur- He added that these finds seat capacity on its winter to have losses of more than Terminal. an art form and has done prise, I got a call later from are “very important” and long-haul services by about 100-million euro. As part If you’re in the West, be everything exactly right, Mairead of the hotel staff show that the popular per- 25 percent compared with of the plan, staff will be sure to stop by the Museum from the glass-fronted, who said they found the ception that Connemara, 2008. I flew Aer Lingus offered unpaid leaves. In of Country Life at Turlough airy, modern building and bracelet and would send Galway, and the West to Ireland this spring, May, Aer Lingus carried Park in Castlebar, Co. its elegant decorations it along. It recently arrived was populated only after had great service and the 90,000 passengers on its Mayo, to view their many – in bedrooms and public by mail, very carefully Oliver Cromwell’s “To hell smoothest of flights as al- transatlantic flights (one interesting ongoing exhib- areas -- to staffing. A stay wrapped and in perfect or to Connacht” campaign ways, and I really want Aer of whom was me) compared its and special programs. at Cliff House is highly condition with a note from is wrong. Lingus to survive the eco- with 114,000 in the same It’s a lovely museum and a recommended. Mairead. I am absolutely MORE FROM nomic downturn currently month of 2008 – a decline fun plan to visit. The muse- I have to admit that I thrilled to have it back, GALWAY gripping the world. of 21 percent. um has extended the clos- Googled the hotel before am mightily impressed by It was great to read, in The Times said service WRONG ing date for the Moylough visiting and was a bit con- the honesty of the staff and the Galway City Tribune, from Dublin to Washington DESTINATION Belt Shrine exhibition to cerned about its descrip- add this vignette to all the that the Volvo Ocean Race, and San Francisco will be I had to laugh when read- next spring. This unique tion as a “boutique hotel.” I other positives about Cliff that was such a hit in suspended from Oct. 25, ing a story by Kate Hol- Medieval treasure dates anticipated finding “major House Hotel. Boston, was also a huge while flights from Shan- mquist in The Irish Times from the 8th Century and attitude” from the staff Aside from the won- success when it stopped in non to Chicago will be sus- urging travelers to consult was found in Moylough, – the kind you too often derful people, the hotel Galway and that the city is pended from Sept. 1. a map when booking a Co. Sligo, in the 1940s by find in high-end properties itself is small enough (39 now positioned “as a world- Apparently, average long vacation and that research a local man cutting turf. where the employees act bedrooms) to be comfort- class marine destination haul fares are down by 19 by travelsupermarket.com The Moylough Belt Shrine as though they are a cut able and homey and the with the potential to at- percent for the first quarter had found that 95,000 Brit- is the only known surviving above the clientele and waterfront location in Ar- tract several other major due to weak economic con- ish residents booked flights example of a belt shrine in can’t stoop to interact with dmore – near Dungarvan maritime events, races, and ditions and weak consumer and hotels for the wrong Ireland. Admission to the you. But that could not and Youghal – is sublime. festivals which could gener- confidence on both sides destination. exhibit is free and opening have been farther from the There’s a spa on site and ate millions of euro for the of the Atlantic. The story Among the more com- times are Tues-Sat., 10 truth at Cliff House. Every you can easily walk down local economy in the coming said that four weekly direct mon mistakes were confus- a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sun., 2 single staff member we into the town, which we years, according to Galway flights between Shannon ing Palma Majorca with to 5 p.m. The museum is encountered was gracious, did one night to enjoy a Harbour Company.” and New York remain La Palma in the Canar- closed Mondays. For more accommodating, chatty, delicious dinner at White The story goes on to “under review.” ies; mixing up San José, information about this and totally down to earth. They Horses Restaurant (rec- say that organizers of The changes, according California, with San José, other Irish museums, visit made you feel like you were ommended by Georgina the European Powerboat to The Times, “are likely Costa Rica; mistaking Am- museum.ie. at home. Campbell.) Championships visited the to prove controversial, par- man in Jordan for Oman, TRAVEL There were many won- Ardmore is a lovely little city during the two weeks ticularly in the tourism sec- the country; thinking that There is so much going derful people working at seaside town as well as of the Volvo Race to check tor in the Shannon region, Bucharest and Budapest on in all parts of Ireland Cliff House Hotel when we being the oldest Christian out the city as a potential which relies on visitors are the same place and during the summer and visited, but space limita- settlement in Ireland. It’s destination for their next from North America.” Cuts booking a holiday in Lis- every age and interest is tions permit me to only list a perfect summer destina- annual event, according will take effect in late Oc- burn, Northern Ireland, in- sure to enjoy a trip there. a few. If you visit, be sure tion to enjoy the weather to Galway’s harbormaster, tober and run until March stead of Lisbon, Portugal. So, when you make plans to look them up. There was and water, visit the nearby Captain Brian Sheridan. and any recommencement The story also said that, to visit Ireland this sum- Serena on the front desk; 12th Century Round Tower Sheridan also told the will be subject to review, “Men are twice as likely as mer, be sure to stop by your Tom, who heads up the and cathedral, St. Declan’s Tribune that informal dis- the newspaper added. women to book the wrong favorite travel agent or go maintenance crew, was Oratory, and more. There’s cussions have also taken Delta Airlines was also flights or hotels.” to the Aer Lingus website born in New York, visited a lovely cliff walk and the place with organizers of said to be pulling its sched- The story said, “Travel (aerlingus.com) for the lat- his grandmother in Ireland hotel has maps to help you other major European uled transatlantic services agents make mistakes too, est direct flights and best and World maritime races from Shannon starting confusing Bordeaux (BOD) ground deals. Aer Lingus and festivals – including in October. However, the with Bodrum (BJV), Los has offered lots of sale Admiral’s Cup, Velux Five Continental Airlines route Angeles (LAX) with Lagos prices this year and airfare Oceans, Louis Vuitton to Newark will reportedly (LOS) and San Juan (SJU) has been very reasonable. Challenge Series, Figaro continue. Ryanair has also with San José (SJO).” US Airways (usairways. Series, Clipper Round the reduced its short-haul ser- GOLFERS AND MORE com) and other airlines also World Race and Tall Ships vices at Shannon, respond- Dublin Tourism has a offer flights and ground great deal for golfers who deals but their flights often visit the area. It’s called the involve layovers. Dublin Golf Pass and is de- Check out all the sum- CAPE COD signed to make courses in mer happenings at Tour- Co. Dublin more accessible. ism Ireland’s website (dis- Mashpee Vacation Rental Special rates are offered coverireland.com) and at various courses and the enjoy your trip to Ireland pass can be ordered online whenever you go.

AUTO BODY REPAIRS (617) 825-1760 (617) 825-2594 FAX (617) 825-7937

Free Pick-Up & Delivery Service Vacation rental on wild-life protected peninsula - fur- nished, water view, 3 BR, 2 full baths, large living-dining-kitchen, laundry, deck. $1000 per week, discount may apply for multiple weeks. Email: irishreeler@ 150 Centre Street yahoo.com. Phone: 301-656-0963 Dorchester, MA 02124 Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com July 2009 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 19 Thirty-Two Counties

Antrim: The Cave Hill years, moved this year to a new 2009 is the year when he will diamond, discovered in the late location in Ballincollig. The new undertake the challenge of 19th century and displayed for venue is a 60-acre showgrounds becoming the first Irishman to a while in a Belfast shop, is now just off the bypass and, in view row the Atlantic solo, and plans the center of an exhibition at the of the increasing popularity of to set off in December from the Linen Hall Library. The history allotments, gardener and tele- Canary Islands. In undertak- of the diamond is unknown but vision presenter Peter Dowdall ing this venture, as part of the following its discovery it was demonstrated vegetable and 2009 Woodvale Atlantic Row on show for some twenty years herb gardening. The show, Race, Seán will also be raising in the window of hatter John which took place last month, money for the charity Soweto Erskine’s shop. After his death included pony club races, a connection that was founded in 1907 it went missing, and was Connemara Pony competition in Limerick. He hopes to raise rediscovered by Eva Kirkwood to be judged by trainer Hen- 100,000 euro for the charity, after the death of her husband, rietta Knight, and a farmers’ with all funds going towards the John Erskine’s grandson. She market. provision of a nutrition centre found it in a suitcase and now Derry: Noel and Anna Gal- and school in Cape Town. Dur- the exhibition will enable the lagher and Frankie and Rosie ing his voyage it is hoped he will public to enjoy the diamond Houston, all from Derry, have receive messages of support by for the first time in more than taken out a three-year lease on satellite from local schoolchil- 100 years. the Step-down Bar in Sliema, dren under the “Shout out to Armagh: A newly refurbished the capital of Malta. They will Seán” program. Orange Hall in Armagh city was be renaming the bar the Derry Longford: Some fifty-two officially opened last month Bar and it is to be decorated members of the Longford His- following a grant of 50,000 with pictures of the city. Lo- torical Society set off last month pounds from the Big Lottery cated on the main street of the for a five-day trip to the north Fund having made possible the town, it is built of brick and west. Co-ordinated by Maureen completion of the work. Among features a heavy oak door and Mulryan, the expedition was to those attending the launch were a new kitchen, where Anna and take in both Derry city and Co. members of one of the groups Rosie plan to cook Irish stew for Donegal, as well as a stopover using the hall, the Hartford their patrons. Noel is a former at Castle Coote House in Enni- Community Development and Seagate worker and Anna has skillen. While they are in Muff, Cultural Association. The hall, worked in Sainsbury’s for some on the Derry-Donegal border, which dates from the 19th cen- time; the pair will fly out to they were to meet up with lo- tury, now has a new foyer and a Malta to begin preparations and cal man, former broadcaster lift, improved lighting, and a fire Frankie and Rosie plan to follow and Longford resident Aidan alarm. In addition to the Hart- them later this month. O’Hara. Also on the itinerary ford group, the hall is used by Donegal: Oakfield Park for the group were Derry land- the Orange Order, an over-55s near Raphoe, which has been marks such as the Guildhall and Friendship Club, church groups, developed by Sir Gerry and the Tower Museum, as well as and a walking group. Lady Heather Robinson, last died earlier this year from a York. He was also part of the Tyrone Crystal in Dungannon Carlow: Martin Galligan, month celebrated the opening of heart attack at the Manor House team in 2006 that broke the on the way home. the PRO of Killeshin GAA club, a new feature. The nymphaem Hotel in Killadeas. Nearly 40 record for the fastest ascent of Louth: A photograph of a man hosted a “giveaway” day for the is a Greek or Roman style years ago Leo Fivey, a fitness the highest mountains in every in his thirties was published in a local people who have given so monument through which water trainer, was Fermanagh County county in Ireland. national newspaper last month generously to the club since it flows, and it is the latest devel- Champion over 440 and 880 Kilkenny: The name of an in an effort to identify the man was given its first playing pitch opment in the seven-year project yards, and he also ran three emigrant from Kilkenny who who paid for a lotto ticket and thirty years ago. The grounds that has seen the park opened to marathons in England in the became the first policeman to then left it behind him. The were opened to the public for the public. The house dates back early 1980s, each in under three be killed in the line of duty in ticket was sold by Tom Heavey a nominal entry fee and people to the early years of the 18th hours. The money Carl hopes to Chicago has been added to the in McDonnell’s in Drogheda’s were entertained by singer century and the 100-acre estate raise from the cycle will be used national police roll of honor. Hardiman Gardens and when George Murphy, a Riverdance- was purchased by the Robinsons to buy defibrillators for the Brit- James Quinn was injured when it was left behind, he made a type show from the Dargan thirteen years ago. One of the ish Heart Foundation. he was attacked by the owner of note that it had been paid for, School of Dancing, and a range main attractions, apart from Galway: A replica of the Vimy a bar as he attempted to arrest and left it beside the till. It then of other events. Club members the extensive gardens, is the Vickers aircraft used by John a suspect. The following day transpired that the ticket was organized a variety of races and miniature railway. Based on Alcock and Arthur Brown when he returned to the bar and was the winner of the Lotto 1 prize competitions for the day, co-or- the County Donegal Railways, they made the first transatlantic again attacked, this time having of 350,000 euro and, following dinated by Edward Brennan, it operates each weekend. flight 90 years ago was one of the a lung punctured. On his third the publicity, local man Dermot including tossing the sheaf and Down: The sisters of St. John highlights of an air show held attempt he was successful in Finglas came forward to claim a penalty shoot-out, as well as of God in Newry will be bring- at Clifden last month. Also on arresting both the suspect and his winnings. Until the mystery pony rides, a bouncing castle, ing to an end almost 140 years display at the event, organized the bar owner, but died the was cleared up the valuable and novelty races. of caring for the sick in Newry by Connemara Chamber of Com- following day. Constable John piece of paper was held by the Cavan: For the month of when three of their number merce, was the world’s only for- Quinn’s name is now included Gardaí in Drogheda. April the Irish Times/Irish retire this month. Sisters Maria mation wing walking team, and on the National Law Enforce- Mayo: The Cathaoirleach of Sports Council Sportswoman Byrne, Anne Harpur, and Anne a jet display. The replica plane ment Officers Memorial, thanks the county council, Joe Mellett, of the Month was presented to Murphy have been working at was flown from the Brooklands to research by local politician performed the official opening Leona Maguire, and in May it St. John’s Hospice House, for- Museum in England by pilots Ed Burke and the author Tom of the new council estate in was the turn of her twin sister merly known as St John of God John Dodd and Clive Edwards, O’Gorman. Tonragee on Achill last month. Lisa, so now both will go forward Hospital. The nuns also worked and landed at Galway airport Laois: Anyone who is willing Bóthar na Céibhe comprises for the title of Sportswoman of at St. Coleman’s College, the before heading on to Clifden. to lend a hand to the Tidy Towns six houses situated close to the the Year, to be announced at Bishop’s House, Courtenay Hill The show also featured an ex- Committee and the Durrow pier in Tonragee with views of the end of the year. The four- House and Daisy Hill Hospital, hibition on Alcock and Brown Development Forum in cleaning Ballycroy and Inishbiggle. The teen-year-old champion golfers with Sister Clare Feely being compiled by local historian up the town will have an added one-million euro development from Ballyconnell have been the last member to work in the Kathleen Villiers-Tuthill. incentive. Each volunteer will was constructed by Geesala- nominated for the title on three latter hospital; she retired nine Kerry: The Toby World have his or her name entered based Vincent Naughton Con- former occasions, but as joint years ago. According to former Family Entertainment Centre in a draw for a 500-euro prize struction and it was blessed at winners, and this is the first matron Sister Teresa Byrne, in Tralee was the location for for every hour and a half of time the official launch by the parish time they have been chosen as their work will be continued by the selection last month of fifty donated. Last month, sixteen priest of Achill, Father Michael individuals. The nominations a committed hospice board. Rose Buds, each of whom will people turned up with spades Gormally. The land on which follow the twins’ winning this Dublin: As part of a horticul- accompany one of the Rose of and shovels, including John the houses have been built, year of the French, Scottish, tural project in Dublin’s inner Tralee entrants during the Kelly with his truck and Seán and where Councillor Michael and Irish amateur titles, as well city an attempt is to be made festival in August. More than O’Brien with a road sweeper. Holmes remembered spraying as being members of the Ulster to restore bluebells to the area 1,500 girls between the ages The need for more volunteers rushes thirty years ago, was team that had a fifth successive named for them. It is part of a of five and eleven from all over has been confirmed by the re- acquired by the council from win at the interprovincials. promotion of Irish flora under- the county had applied for the sults of the first report from a the Tonragee Development Clare: Jack Dunleavy from taken by Fiann O Nuallain with positions, and the applications county-wide litter survey, which Company. Kilrush, who has just celebrated communities, and especially were placed in piles of 100 and found that Durrow received the Meath: Peggie Flynn, origi- his 99th birthday, has been pre- children, in the Liberties and the winners selected at random. lowest points of all 21 towns nally from Moynalty but living sented with a Fáinne Óir by local inner city. He is using the va- The names of the chosen 50 were taking part. in England for more than fifty county councillor Tom Prendev- cant space available after the revealed at a ceremony in the Leitrim: On June 21, there years, was last month presented ille, who discovered Jack’s love demolition of the Bridgefoot Fels Point Hotel and they can was no excuse for boredom in with a papal medal during Mass of Irish when he was canvassing Street flats and has turned it now look forward to taking part Drumsna when the Annual Vin- at St. Joseph’s Church in Mat- before the recent election. Jack into a community garden with in the Official Parade. tage and Family Day took place lock, Derbyshire. Parish priest has been fluent in Irish since the help of the local Community Kildare: There are fewer in Teasie and Tommy McLough- Canon Bernard Needham pre- being encouraged by a teacher Development Project. In one than 50 people in the world who lin’s Paddock in Quay Street. sented a surprised Peggy with from Connemara in the local garden a “calendar garden” has can claim to have completed a The proceedings were sched- the Bene Merenti medal for her Christian Brothers School, and been planted, comprising a tree marathon or ultra marathon on uled to be officially launched services to the Church. Origi- received his first gold Fáinne to symbolize each month. And the seven continents and at the by parish priest Father John nally Peggie Farrell, her brother some 60 years ago. However in in the garden on St. Agnes Road North Pole, and a Leixlip man is Wall and the announced special Gerry still lives in Moynalty the intervening years this was in Crumlin children from the one of them. John O’Regan, who guest was ‘Petra’, the winner while her sisters Gertie and lost and Jack was delighted to Bru Youth Group have included works for Irish Rail, completed of the Drumsna Alternative Angela live in Navan and Kells, receive a replacement. Heavily plants that would have been the seven races after taking Rose Competition who success- respectively. She is also a sister involved over the years with familiar to the Fianna. part in the Ultra Marathon in fully contested the final of the of Father Val Farrell, who wrote the Kilrush GAA club, he car- Fermanagh: Carl Fivey, Australia, and he has completed competition in Drumshanbo. Of a book about Moynalty entitled ried out all the correspondence originally from Boa Island but the marathons over a seven- course there was to be a display “Not So Much To One Side”. through Irish. now based with the RAF in Lin- year period. In addition, he has of vintage machinery and cars, Monaghan: Charlene McK- Cork: The Cork Summer colnshire, is taking part in this accompanied blind adventure and a draw for a scale model of enna has won an award at Show, which has been held at year’s British Heart Foundation sportsman Mark Pollock on a vintage thresher in Duignan’s the 49th Monte Carlo Televi- the showgrounds of the Mun- London to Brighton Bike Ride. the North Pole Marathon and Bar that evening. sion Awards Festival for her ster Agricultural Society in He is undertaking the cycle in has taken part in a race up the Limerick: Limerick man performance in the drama Ballintemple for the past 108 memory of his father Leo, who Empire State Building in New Seán McGowan has decided (Continued on page 21) Page 20 July 2009 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com News Direct From Ireland

Romanian families flee gate the incident. The call for than giving details of individual Belfast homes -- Following a an inquiry could not be seen as census forms, http://www.cso.ie/ number of incidents of intimi- Ireland Today: supportive of Pat O’Donnell, the census/historical_reports.htm dation of immigrants in south skipper of the vessel, who was gives statistical tables under a Belfast, some 20 families took the only member of the Associa- number of headings including refuge in a church hall and have Honesty Reigns in Louth tion to reject a 30,000 euro pay- population, occupation, reli- since been rehoused at a secret This from the Emigrant’s Counties file:A photograph of ment from Shell to compensate gious, and birthplaces. Details location. Over the June 13-14 a Louth man in his 30s was published in a national newspaper for the temporary disruption on named individuals are only weekend two youths, aged 15 last month in an effort to identify the man who paid for a lotto to their fishing while the gas available up until 1911. and 16, appeared in court in ticket and then left it behind him at the store. The ticket was pipeline was being laid. CSO report shows Ireland relation to the intimidation. sold by Tom Heavey in McDonnell’s in Drogheda’s Hardiman Archbishop reveals re- with highest proportion of Stone throwing, graffiti and Gardens and when it was left behind, he made a note that it action to sex abuse files -- children -- A report from the racial chants aimed at Roma- had been paid for, and left it beside the till. Speaking during a TV3 program Central Statistics Office has nian nationals in south Belfast It then transpired that the ticket was the winner of the Lotto entitled “Abuse of Trust: Sins shown that Ireland has the prompted about 100 demon- 1 prize of 350,000 euro and, following the publicity, local man of the Fathers,” Archbishop of highest proportion of children strators to stage a protest on Dermot Finglas came forward to claim his winnings. Until the Dublin Dr. Diarmuid Martin under the age of nine in the EU. the Lisburn Road on Monday mystery was cleared up the valuable piece of paper was held described how he found himself Broken down, the figures reveal night. Their presence attracted by the Gardaí in Drogheda. unable to continue reading the that in the 0-4 category Ireland’s six masked youths who shouted diocesan archive reports on percentage of 7.4 is well above Nazi slogans and threw bottles sexual abuse and at one stage the EU average of 5.2 percent, at the protestors. On Tuesday receiving 50 percent of their report from InjuriesBoard.ie, pensions while they are still which replaced the Personal In- “simply threw them onto the while in the 5-9 category the na- night more than 100 Roma- ground.” During the program it tion has the highest proportion nians, including a five-day-old members of the Oireachtas. A juries Assessment Board, it has new bill, which will become law been revealed that 70 percent was also revealed that publica- at 6.9 percent and the second baby, congregated in one house tion of the archdiocese’s Com- highest, at 6 percent, in the 10- in fear of further racist attacks. before the Dáil summer recess, of all claims for public liability will take full effect after the injuries are made by women. mission of Investigation may 14 category. In the 0-4 age group At this stage the authorities have to be delayed since court some 15 percent of the total are intervened and arranged that next general election. In the Conversely, 70 percent of claims meantime those receiving the for workplace injuries are lodged proceedings are still ongoing the children of immigrants. The they spend the night in a nearby against some men investigated report also covers educational, church hall. On Wednesday they pensions will receive 25 percent by men. It also emerged that less for the remaining life of the Dublin residents are 32 percent by the Commission. health and lifestyle profiles of were transferred to a leisure cen- M&S ‘permanent price children and young people in tre and later that day provided current Dáil. more likely to sue for damages Priest apologizes for re- than those from any other prov- cuts’ will not apply to food -- Ireland. See http://www.cso. with temporary accommodation From Thursday, June 18, Marks ie/releasespublications/cdyg- in which they can remain for at marks on Daingean inmates ince. The report further stated -- Monsignor Tom Coonan has that retail outlets account for & Spencer cut an average of 12 people2008.htm least a week. It is reported that percent off the prices of clothing, Northern journalist not all the families, members of the issued an apology after parish- a quarter of all claims, while ioners complained of remarks cinemas, sports clubs and gyms homeware, and furniture in all required to reveal sources Roma community, now wish to its outlets in the Republic, but -- Suzanne Breen, the Sunday be repatriated. he made last month during a feature in 13 percent. One rea- sermon at St. Joseph’s Church son given for the preponderance did not include its food halls in Tribune’s Northern editor, won The PSNI had been accused the cost-cutting exercise. The her legal battle not to reveal her of failing to respond promptly to in Ballingar, Co. Offaly. It is of women making claims is that alleged that during a sermon many injuries are the result of company says it was responding sources in relation to a story she reports of intimidation but these both to the economic downturn wrote about the murder of two allegations were firmly rejected. on forgiveness Msgr. Coonan falls in shopping centers. described some of the children Fisheries association calls and to the number of complaints soldiers outside Massareene CCTV footage from the area has about discrepancies in price Barracks near Antrim town in been examined by police officers sent to nearby Daingean refor- for inquiry into sinking -- matory as “ruffians”, although The Erris Inshore Fisherman’s between Ireland and the ster- March. The court ruled that her in an attempt to identify those ling area. right to life outweighed public responsible for the attacks and it he denies using this word; he Association has called for an believes he said some were “less immediate inquiry into the sink- More census information interest in the prevention of was after this that two teenagers now online -- The Central crime. The PSNI had taken the were arrested. than angels.” The monsignor ing of the Iona Isle fishing boat has, however, apologized for off Erris Head last month. Deep Statistics Office has made case against Ms. Breen but she Politicians reluctant to available the results of all argued that her life would be in give up perks -- The Govern- causing offense and has reiter- concern was expressed in the ated his total condemnation of statement, signed by chairman censuses carried out in Ireland serious danger if she were to ment announced on June 16 from 1926 to 1991, information comply with the order to reveal that it will bring in legislation the abuse that took place. Éamon Ó Duibhir, secretary More women, and more Éamon Dixon and treasurer that was previously available the names of the dissident re- which will end the practice of only on request and to certain publicans who claimed respon- former Government ministers Dubliners, make personal Melvin Tighe, and gardaí were injury claims -- In the first urged to “vigorously” investi- designated persons. Rather sibility for the murders.

Thirty-Two Counties From Offaly to Wicklow

(Continued from page 20) part in the CRN All-Ireland O’Loughran primary school afterwards in the Shamrock family members of the two cu- “Whistleblower”. Originally Irish Dancing Championships in Castlecaulfield held a joint Lodge Hotel. The following day rates. A Mass of Thanksgiving from Glaslough, the twenty- that took place over two week- birthday celebration last month it was to be the turn of St. Mary’s was celebrated by Bishop Denis four-year-old was named Out- ends in Gormanstown, Co. with Tyrone GAA stars. Each Parish, where the Parish Pas- Brennan and a reception was standing Actress in a Mini-Se- Meath and Citywest in Dublin. is celebrating a 125th birthday toral Council had organized a held in the local school. ries. Charlene, who also holds The two girls came home with a this year and the parents’ as- special Mass to mark the jubilee Wicklow: A rare occurrence the Irish Film and Television total of eight All-Ireland medals sociation supplied all 89 pupils of Administrator Father Liam took place on the Cullen family Awards title of Best Actress comprising two firsts, a second, and GAA officials at the school Murray. The parishioners were farm in Newtownmountkennedy for her role in “Raw,” received fourths, fifths and sevenths. with a special commemorative to be served refreshments in St. last month when a pedigree her award in the ceremony Sligo: An Australian travel jersey. In addition to Mickey Ciaran’s House. Limousin heifer was delivered held in the Salle des Princes programme, Gurus Explore, has Harte, new GAA president Wexford: An important part of three calves. Triplet calves Grimaldi. Now London-based, been on location in the county Christy Cooney was also in the of the ceremony recently to mark are an extremely rare event and, she had intended to train as recently filming some of the school, which played host to the 150th anniversary of St. according to Shay Cullen, it is a teacher after leaving school most popular tourist sites for an both the Sam Maguire and the Carthage’s Church in Courtna- the first time he has seen it in and began studying music and hour-long program to be broad- Tom Markham cups for the day. cuddy was the unveiling of two twenty years of cattle-breeding, theology in Dublin, but a part cast in the autumn. Among the At the end of the day, following plaques. These commemorate and the first time also for the in “Breakfast on Pluto” led her places the film crew visited a football tournament, a time two former curates, both of vet who delivered them. Shay’s into acting instead. were Voya Seaweed Baths in capsule containing photographs whom served over a century ago children, nine-year-old Laoise Offaly: While one business is Strandhill, where Neil Walton and names of all the pupils was and the only two to be interred and seven-year-old Oisin, had closing for Jack Smith another was interviewed. At Drumcliffe buried in the school grounds. within the walls of the church. the task of naming the new door has opened in a differ- Churchyard Ita Leyden recited Waterford: With funding The plaques are dedicated to arrivals and since this year it ent discipline. Jack was the the poetry of WB Yeats, while provided by ten local businesses Father Aidan Corish of Ball- is the turn of the letter ‘E’ for proprietor of Falconry Flights Stella Mews of the Yeats Society the Dunmore East Tourism ingly House, Ballymitty, and pedigree cattle, the children at Kinnitty Castle and had a featured in the filming of parts Group has produced a brochure Father John D. Hore, a native chose the names Elisa, Emily, very successful year five years of the Yeats Trail. Glencar giving details of the best walks of Courtnacuddy. Taking part and Eve. ago, but since then the number Waterfall and the Carrowmore in the area. Written by local in the unveiling ceremony were of visitors has declined sharply Megalithic Tombs were also on heritage expert Ray McGrath, and he has been forced to sell the itinerary. the guide includes walks of several of his birds. At present Tipperary: John Dwyer varying lengths, the shorter he has his harris hawk, gos- Plant Hire, with the help of John ones including the Coxton Loop, hawk and owl, but he will keep Hartnett, Joen Coen and Donal the Flat Rocks, Shanoon and Ireland’s Weather only the harris hawk. However Cleary, has now completed the the Follakipeen Walk. Among Jack has now opened up a new new duck pond in Borrisokane the longer walks recommended Reported Monday, June 29, 2009 business in Tullamore, the Town Park and the ducks are is the six-kilometre Fairy Bush by Liam Ferrie Tullamore Kenpo Self Defence expected to take up residence Loop which takes in a megalith- soon. A number of other new ic site, Bóthar na Mná Gorm and & Fitness Studio in Patrick’s Whatever happens for the remainder of the year we will Court. It had its official opening features have been introduced Fornaught Strand. According into the park recently, including to Mark Daly, chairman of the be saying we had a good summer. The sun shone for most last month and will be the first of the week and daytime temperatures remained in the 20s, full-time studio in the midlands two new poetry signs, the poems tourism group, there are plans being the work of Vera Molloy to introduce a walking festival rising to 25 at times. Conditions deteriorated a little from for this particular branch of the Friday. Heavy thundery showers were reported from differ- martial arts. of Marian Avenue. Before they in Dunmore. broke up for the summer, the Westmeath: Two Athlone ent parts at different times of the week but they didn’t last Roscommon: Two young long and were very localised. sisters from Boyle will be head- students of St. Finbarr’s Class parishes were set to be celebrat- in Borrisokane Community Col- ing the silver jubilees of their ing to San Francisco in October It should remain warm and fairly sunny for the coming to represent Roscommon in the lege planted an area of shrubs, priests late last month. Bishop while a second picnic bench Christopher Jones was to be week with rain showers a possibility at any time although American Irish Dancing Cham- more likely later in the week. pionships. Emma and Rebecca has been sponsored by a UK- the main celebrant at a Mass Scally, who are students of based reader of the Nenagh to mark the jubilee of Father Latest Temps: Day 19C (70F) Guardian. John McManus in SS Peter & the Shannon Academy of Irish Night 12C (54F) Dance on Racecourse Road in Tyrone: The pupils past Paul church on June 25, with Roscommon town, recently took and present of Blessed Patrick a reception and presentation Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com July 2009 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 21 The Irish Language by Philip Mac AnGhabhann Celtic It is time to talk about “time”. Not “telling time” – which we will get to in due course – but how to say such sentences as, “He will come next Tuesday” or Cross “Mary was here last year.” You have already learned the days of the week. They are always preceded by an, “the” when simply listed. The names for “Tuesday, Words Wednesday” and Friday are feminine and the first two of theses show this by being lenited or “aspirated” The Irish when following the article. However, people don’t normally simply list the days crosswords are of the week, they more often say, “On Monday”, next Tuesday, last Friday.” In this usage the name of the a service of an day is always preceded by Dé /jey/, “day of”. Notice the difference: Ireland-based Listing: “On …” An Domhnach Dé Domhnaigh website which An Luan Dé Luain An Mháirt Dé Máirt provides Irish An Chéadaoin Dé Céadaoin An Déardaoin Déardaoin Family Coats of An Aoine Dé hAoine An Satharn Dé Sathairn Arms by email. Nouns in Irish have several forms, depending on their use. Recall the way that you have to change the You are invited form when speaking “to” a person versus speaking “about” them. to visit Tá Gaelge ag Séamas. “Seamas speaks (has) Irish.” www. A Shéamais! Abair Gaelge! “Seamas! Speak Irish!” bigwood.com/ When you talk about Séamas his name is pronounced /SHAY-muhs/; when you, speak directly heraldry to him his name becomes Shéamais, pronounced /HEY-mish/. This is called the Vocative Case. The Vocative is formed by leniting (“aspirating”) the initial consonant except l, n, or r for both genders ©-bigwood.com and “slenderizing”, inserting an i before the final IRELAND IN CROSSWORDS consonant for male names. ACROSS 15. Squirrel’s home back in the American garden in Nóra A Nó____! Cáit A Cháit! 1. Or find chiller. (anag.) Stepchildren of Aoife whom she pretty Ardmore. (4) Liam A Liam! Séamus A Shéamais! turned into Swans on Lough Derravaragh. (8,2,3) 16. Last word in mean fashion. (4) When used as the subject of a sentence, “Seamas 8. Protection found in popular Mourne location. (6) 17. Greasy sun out over U.C. (8) speaks…” the form is called the Nominative Case. 9. Pout face up until refreshment appears. (3,2,3) 18. E.g. rang up Sligo village underneath Ben Bulben on In the “days of the week” above, we have our first 10. Fry air? No, but reduce its pressure. (6) the Bundoran road opposite Inishmurray Island. (6) examples of the Genitive Case. 12. Get up on hind legs about per can order. (6) 19. “This goat-footed bard, this half-human visitor English has only a few relics of “Case”, primarily in 13. Impulses scrambled the last of the Carrickfergus to our age from the hag-ridden magic and enchanted the personal pronoun system – “I”, “Me”, “Mine” and letters. (5) woods of ——— antiquity.” Baron Keynes - (describing “My” for example. The Genitive Case in languages 14. Then avoid by cute diversion around engineer- Lloyd George) (6) which retain “Case” is usually translated using “of” ing work carrying the Dublin - Belfast rail line over 21. Soothe in the meandering vales. (5) in English. An Domhnach /uhn DOH-nahk/,”the Drogheda. (3,5,7) Sunday” but Dé Domhnaigh /jey DOH-nee/ “Day CROSSWORD SOLUTION ON PAGE 23 of Sunday.” 19. Tree falls over after a century on Mediterranean As above, Genitive forms of nouns are usually the island. (5) second of two nouns in a row, the second describing 20. Threw in at the Gaelic game? (6) or limiting the first. Some examples in English and 21. Make a quick grab for ants all over the small Irish are “(a) piece of bread”, píosa aráin, or “(a) cup church. (6) Irish Sayings of coffee”, cupán caife. Many nouns do not have a 22. Stretch little Leonard starts, then finishes after “Youth does not mind where it sets its foot.” Genitive form different from other forms and often note. (8) “Both your friend and your enemy think you will it is the same as the plural form. 23. Salty pool covered up back in Portnoo gallery. (6) never die.” There are other uses of the Genitive, some relic 24. Sweet stew clan. (anag.) Limerick market town with “The well fed does not understand the lean.” phrases and nouns when they follow verbal nouns. a Knights Templars castle built in 1184. (9,4) “He who comes with a story to you brings two away Some prepositions require their objects be in the from you” Genitive. The Genitive is falling into disuse in spo- DOWN “Quiet people are well able to look after themselves.” ken Irish but required in writing. More on the uses 2. Oh, lure me in disorder for Bill first proposed and “A friends eye is a good mirror.” and forms of the Genitive in future columns. lost by Gladstone in 1885 and passed in 1912. (4,4) “It is the good horse that draws its own cart.” Meantime, there are also words that you will want 3. “Hail fellow, well met. All —— and wet: Find out, if “A lock is better than suspicion.” to learn concerning time. Many of these are already you can, Who’s master, who’s man.” Swift. (5) 4. Storeys “Two thirds of the work is the semblance.” familiar: one knocks to the ground. (6) “He who gets a name for early rising can stay in bed inniu “today” inné “yesterday” 5. Recite with a singing voice to nine others in Rosses until midday.” amárach “tomorrow” Point one time. (6) “If you do not sow in the spring you will not reap in “day” “week” lá seachtain 6. Hour train call. (anag.) Kerry mountain popularly the autumn.” mí “month” maidin “morning” tráthnóna “afternoon” ascended through the Hag’s Glen and up the Devil’s “Put silk on a goat, and it’s still a goat.” oiche “night” Ladder to the peak at 3,314 feet. (13) “Listen to the sound of the river and you will get a aréir “last night” bliain “year” 7. Jests shame pen. (anag.) Irish writer and poet (1880- trout.” The plurals of some of these include lá, laeth- 1950) who wrote ‘The Crock of Gold’ . (5,8) “A persons heart is in his feet.” anta “days”; oiche, oicheanta, “nights; seachtain, 9. Owners latch up in neat Mayo village on the Sligo “It is a long road that has no turning.” seachtainí, “weeks”; maidineacha “mornings”; mí, border. (11) “Necessity knows no law.” míonna “months”; blain, blianta, “years”. 11. You must see the faithful dog in Glengarriff, I do “The wearer best knows where the shoe pinches.” Here are some useful phrases that always follow insist. (4) “There is no luck except where there is discipline.” the nouns they describe: 12. Ripe conversion of fairy on Greek roundabout. (4) “The man with the boots does not mind where he “last” seo caite /shoh KAH-chuh/ places his foot.” mí seo caite “last month” “next” seo chugainn /shoh HOOK-een/ ADVERTISEMENT mí seo chugainn “next month” “ago” ó shin /oh heen/ mí ó shin “a month ago” You don’t have to say “last” with “night” or day” since there are separate words for “last night” and Photography by “yesterday”. Nor do you normally use “next” with “day” since there is a word for “tomorrow”. However, you may want to say something like, “He came the next day” using the past tense or “He will come the next day” using the future tense. Image Photo Service See if you can put these sentences or phrases in to Irish: 1.) “Sean came from Dublin last week.” 2.) “Mary! Come inside!” 3. “He said that he will not be • Weddings • Anniversaries here next year.” 4.) “She gave that cup last Christmas.” 5.) “I saw him a week ago.” 6.) “Did you see her last • Banquets • Portraits night?” 7.) “Patrick was sick yesterday.” 8.) “How is he today?” 9.) Fine. I saw him this morning.” 10.) • Reunions “Did you go to the shop last month?” 11.) “No. I didn’t (go).” 12.) “Colm, where will you be next week?” Answers: 1.) Tháinig Seán as Baile Átha Cliath • Groups • Families seachtain seo caite. 2.) A Mháiri! Tar istigh! 3.) Deir sé nach mbeidh sé féin anseo blain seo • Special Occasions chugainn. 4.) Thug sí an cupan sin Nollaig seo caite. 5.) Chonaic mé esan ó seachtain. 6.) An fhaca tú isan aréir? 7.) Bhí Pádraig tinn inné. 8.) Conas atá sé inniu? 9.) Go maith. Feicim é an (617) 291-6609 maidin. 10.) An dheachaigh tú go an siopa mí seo caite? 11.) Ní. Ní dheachaigh mé. 12.) A Choilm, cá mbeidh tusa seachtain seo chugainn? The official photographers of the Boston Irish Reporter Page 22 July 2009 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com Boston Irish Reporter Book Review Of Crime and Cultural Commentary By Peter F. Stevens Hughes’s All the Dead Voices BIR Staff Boston has Dennis Lehane, and Dublin has Declan Hughes. Both are not only gifted storytellers, but also Continues to Craft Irish Noir men who intimately know the past and present of their respective turfs. Even better for readers, both novelists to the Crime Noir Genre are masters at twists and turns where that past and Hughes’s previous novels. present intersect – violently. In All the Dead Voices, As Loy investigates that death, he is also asked to look Hughes’s fourth novel featuring the Dublin detective, into another mysterious death, that of Paul Delaney, Ed Loy, Hughes once again draws readers into the a rising soccer star with a well-known nose for trouble city’s grittiest neighborhoods and toniest digs alike. and with a possible connection to the dangerous Cullen. As always for Ed Loy, they don’t just intersect; they Hughes sends Loy and the reader on a riveting and crash with murder, intrigue, emotion, and all that’s inevitable collision of the two cases along the streets of vile and noble in people. Dublin, the modern city and the dark past slamming Hughes – and Ed Loy – garnered attention and into each other as they always do for Loy. plaudits from the outset when the first Loy novel,The Through him, Hughes writes of that intersection of Wrong Kind of Blood, won the prestigious Shamus past and present in Dublin today: “There’s a reckoning Award for Best First P.I. Novel. Next, The Color of you can make with history, a reasonable settlement Blood, was also nominated for a Shamus. The Price that makes demands but leaves you with your dignity. of Blood was nominated for an Edgar Award for Best And then there’s a kind of morbid fascination that Novel, and all three of the Ed Loy novels hit bestseller borders on obsession, a grave-robbing disorder that lists in Ireland and the U.S. An award-winning play- fills your every waking moment with memories and wright and screenwriter and the cofounder and former echoes and dust.” artistic director of Rough Magic Theatre Company in Hughes’s acute eye for detail and description reso- Dublin, Hughes has also been Writer in Association nate throughout his prose, as in his scene in which Loy with the Abbey Theatre. meets Anne Fogarty for the first time: “Anne Fogarty Hughes, who lives in Dublin with his wife and two was about forty but looked thirty-five, or maybe she daughters, has brought his deft playwright’s ear for was thirty-five and looked her age. It was hardto dialogue and blended it with a prose style that is alter- tell these days, when twenty-one year olds were so nately gritty and elegant and always pushes his nar- primped and groomed and orange-faced they often rative forward with sure-footed pacing and action. looked like startled fifty-five-year-old millionaires’ Hughes opens All the Dead Voices as Loy is ap- wives with too much work done. She looked well to proached by Anne Fogarty, whose father was killed my eyes, whatever age she was, in indigo jeans and a fifteen years ago. Certain that the police pinched tight purple wraparound top… the wrong man for her father’s murder, she hires the “She laid a pale green file on my desk, took the cup detective to uncover what happened. He soon finds of black coffee I offered her, sat back and told me why that her father, who had been a revenue inspector, was she was here. Declan Hughes has proven himself one of the finest about to file claims against a trio of men he suspected “My father was murdered in 1991…” practitioners of crime novels on either side of the of amassing huge amounts of money through crime. With that, the action begins to simmer, bubble, and Atlantic. The three are Bobby Doyle, an ex-IRA man who is eventually explode into the latest, impossible-to-put- All the Dead Voices, by Declan Hughes, William now a major property developer; Jack Cullen, now down saga of Ed Loy plunging into Dublin’s darkest Morrow, hardcover, ISBN 978-0-06-168988-8, 311 the head of a splinter gang of disgruntled IRA men; secrets and alternately unraveling and stumbling pages, $24.99. and George Halligan, Loy’s underworld nemesis in across far more than he ever anticipated. Once again, New U.S. Book Releases The Yellow House consequences. It set Church disparate stories and voices against State, County Council through an Irish monk, a By Patricia Falvey against Government Depart- hooker in the Bronx, a group Patricia Falvey’s first novel,The Yellow House, delves ment and even members of the of grieving mothers who lost into the passion and politics of Northern Ireland at the same political party against their sons at war, a city judge, beginning of the 20th century. Eileen O’Neill’s family each other. In July 1930, Miss an alcoholic, and the tightrope is torn apart by religious intolerance and secrets from Letitia Dunbar Harrison, a walker who obliquely binds the past. Determined to re- graduate of Trinity College, them all together. Inspired by claim her ancestral home and was appointed to the post of Phillipe Petit’s infamous real- reunite her family, Eileen be- Mayo County Librarian. Her life tightrope walk between the gins working at the local mill, appointment set in motion a Twin Towers in 1974, McCann’s saving her money and holding chain of events that resulted novel opens with this moment of fast to her dreams. As war is in a full- scale political crisis. unfathomable risk and beauty, declared on a local and global Mayo priests and politicians and from there spins together scale, Eileen cannot separate attempted to have her removed the lives of the searching and the politics from the very per- and organized an effective boycott of the Library lonely people scattered below, 110 stories back down sonal impact the conflict has Service. on the ground. on her own life. Looking at the background of the dispute uncovers With his commanding storytelling skills and poet’s She is soon torn between two many of the fault-lines of the newly formed Free State. ear for language, McCann captures the search for men, each drawing her to one Examining the anatomy of the crisis lays bare the some greater, mystical truth or beauty that pulls each extreme. One is a charismatic tensions of society in 1930s Ireland as it moved away character forward, no matter how hard or lonely their and passionate police activ- from colonial rule. path, no matter how much grief and loss and ugliness ist determined to win Irish Mercier Press/Dufour Editions, paperback, 223 pp, they encounter. independence from Great Britain at any cost, who $19.95. Colum McCann is the bestselling author of the novels, appeals to her warrior’s soul. The other is the wealthy Zoli, Dancer, This Side of Brightness, and Songdogs, and handsome black sheep of the pacifist family who as well as two critically acclaimed short story collec- owns the mill where she works, and whose persistent tions. A contributor to The New Yorker, The New York attention becomes impossible for her to ignore. Lakeshore Loops Times Magazine, The Atlantic Monthly, GQ and The What Eileen decides will change the course of all Exploring Ireland’s Lakes Paris Review, he lives in New York City. their lives and give her a true understanding of her- Random House, hardcover, 368 pp, $25. self. Set in Ulster, this novel brings to life the conflicts By John Dunne leading up to the birth of the border that divided the This is the first guide to focus island of Ireland. exclusively on Ireland’s lakes, Patricia Falvey was born in Newry, Co. Down, with touring routes suitable Funny Peculiar Northern Ireland. She was raised in Northern Ireland for bikes, rambles, and cars. and England before immigrating alone to the United Full of anecdotes and local lore, By Constance McCullagh States at the age of twenty. Until recently, she served the author includes the many Set against the backdrop of The Troubles in 1970s as a Managing Director at PricewaterhouseCoopers, nearby points of interest, the Northern Ireland, Funny Pe- L.L.C., where she led a national tax consulting prac- origins of some of the more culiar is the humorous and tice. She earned national recognition as a tax expert unusual place-names, and the moving story of a girl resisting for the insurance industry and was a Center Street, legends of lake monsters and the pain and shame of sexual hardcover, 352 pp, $21.99. banshees. abuse and staying in love with There are maps of each lake life. Told with bitter humor as it with the points of interest. weaves together dog shows and Nearby attractions are clearly the Orange Order, Bloody Fri- The Curious Case marked. day and the Wombles, sexual of the Mayo Librarian Liberties Press/Dufour Editions, paperback, 335 abuse and the Silver Jubilee, pp, $26.95. Funny Peculiar vibrates with By Pat Walsh the secret triumphs of a child “The Mayo library row” was how it became commonly fighting back. As her family known news far outside the confines of the county. Not Let the Great World Spin starts to disintegrate and The only had it made headlines in Ireland, it had caught Troubles continue into a sec- the attention of newspapers in places as far away as By Colum McCann ond decade, Constance tries Boston and London. Why would such a seemingly When an already-highly-praised writer delivers a to make sense of the meaning of loyalty and betrayal unassuming appointment drive a government to the novel that outshines even his own stunning previous within her family and community. A sensitive and brink and clash church and state against each other so work, one must stop and pay attention. With Let the observant girl, Constance survives her abuse and heavily? The new appointee was a Protestant. Great World Spin, McCann’s grand and generous vi- emerges strong and determined, with a passion for The office of Mayo County Librarian was hardly a sion comes to fruition in an ambitious, kaleidoscopic, life, love and laughter. crucial post. It was little more than a routine appoint- and vibrant novel. Brandon Books/Dufour Editions, paperback, 239 ment, yet escalated into a conflict that had national McCann weaves together a panoramic array of pp, $22.95. Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com July 2009 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 23 Boston Irish Reporter Book Briefs Reviews of books recently published in Ireland, courtesy of readireland.com

Thomas Roberts, table? Perhaps you need a autism challenged her family hearty pick-me-up or a quick and changed her life. 1748-1777 and comforting supper at the Paperback; 338 pages. By William Laffan end of a long day. Kevin knows and Brendan Rooney that the best home cooked food is Tuesday’s Child straightforward and satisfying By Kathy Evans but certainly never boring. He Tuesday’s Child tells of a gathers together classic dishes mother’s journey from the and creative twists to give a diagnosis of her baby’s Down delicious collection of recipes Syndrome through shock, an- for all types of occasion. Full of ger, grief and ultimately, a kind bold flavors and fresh, seasonal of acceptance. This beautifully ingredients, these confident written memoir is a compel- recipes are guaranteed to ling mix of heartfelt personal become firm family favorites. story and insightful journalism. Kevin also shows how to get “Tuesday’s Child” highlights a second outing from your ef- society’s attitudes to difference, forts, with clever ways to turn but more importantly the defin- leftovers into a whole new meal. ing moment that was to reshape Whether you’re a beginner in a family’s life. It is heart-warm- the kitchen or an experienced ing and thought-provoking. cook, these are reliable recipes life. Into this story of personal Paperback; 212 pages. you’ll return to again and again. healing and recovery, the island who found the strength to keep Recipes Include: Roasted Root stories, its people and places and fighting when it seemed as Although Thomas Roberts Vegetable, Chilli and Pumpkin though the whole world was (1748-1777) is justly regarded as wildlife are interwoven to form Soup Traditional Beef Cas- an original and multi-layered against her. the finest Irish landscape paint- serole with Herb Dumplings Paperback; 152 pages. er of the eighteenth century, he memoir. Pan fried Trout with Toasted Paperback; 210 pages is still little appreciated outside Almonds Savoury Bread and Wild Dublin: specialist circles. This important Butter Pudding Pot Roasted new publication aims to make Pork with Apples Chicken and A World of Our Own: Exploring his work more widely known Broccoli Taglitelle Summer A Journey of Love Nature in the City and to explore the richness of Berry Pudding Treacle Tart Through Autism By Eanna Ni Lamhna his landscape art. Roberts died Chapter breakdown: One Pot by Aileen McCallan Dublin is not only home to a at the age of just 28, having Wonders, Quick Suppers, Food million inhabitants but is also fled Ireland for Portugal to seek For Many, Clever Leftovers, Ac- Young mother Aileen McCal- lan is filled with love and joy at residence for an exquisite array respite from the consumption companiments, Desserts. of creatures, flora, and fauna. that haunted his last days. Hardback; 188 pages. the birth of her second son, Cian. Now she feels she can settle into Minks in the Dodder, Whales This detailed study publishes on the coastline, Newts in Dun- many previously unknown motherhood and a comfortable life. But it is not to be. From the drum, Badgers in Rathfarnham, works by Roberts, greatly in- Otters in Ringsend -- these are creasing his recognized oeuvre, age of about eighteen months, Cian’s behavior grows increas- just some of the fantastic wild but it also examines the world life you’ll spot in the capital. Half of his patrons, who included ingly strange: his language fails to develop; he shows little of the bird species on the Irish many of the leading figures of A Mother’s list have been recorded here, as eighteenth-century Ireland. emotional or social connection; and he screams and writhes at Nightmare: have more than a third of our Roberts produced paintings wild plants. All of our terrestrial that were distinctive, at times night, wearing down his par- My Fight to Get ents. They face an endless series wild mammals, with just five idiosyncratic, but consistently My Children Back or six exceptions, have been accomplished. This book ex- of assessments and tests as the By Louise Mason truth gradually dawns: Cian recorded inside the M50. This plores a variety of themes: Louise Mason lived through book shows you Dublin city’s Roberts’s connections with his has autism. Aileen determines every mother’s nightmare. Both to hold onto Cian, to stop her rich biodiversity of wildlife, Dublin Group contemporaries; her children were taken into with wonderful photographs by the specifically Irish elements son from slipping away from care following the false accusa- her. She spends her waking Anthony Woods, while the text, of his art; and the way in which tion that Louise had harmed the written by Eanna Ni Lamhna, his work reflects the interests hours working with him and younger child, who was just four searching for therapists who can provides a running commentary and mentality of his patrons. weeks old at the time. Social in her distinctive voice. “Wild The influences of Irish Grand connect with him using Applied services kept the children - and Behavioural Analysis (ABA). It Dublin” will inspire any reader Tourists and the classical tra- tried to put them up for adoption -- old or young -- to go out there dition are balanced by that of Blasket Spirit: Stories is an uphill battle that strains - even after Louise had been Aileen’s sanity, her marriage, and see for themselves. Irish antiquities. Patriotism, from the Islands cleared in a criminal court of all Large Format Paperback; 188 ‘improvement’, emulation, ex- By Anita Fennelly her world. She feels caught in a charges against her. When she world where there is only Cian pages with color photographs hibiting practices and the Seeking solitude after per- gave birth to a third child three throughout. aesthetics of landscape gar- sonal crisis, Anita Fennelly and her. A World of Our Own years later, social services were dening are all themes invoked spent a summer alone on the is a mother’s account of how at the hospital within hours to to illuminate the artistic and Great Blasket Island. This is take her baby away. Failed by social context that Roberts re- her account, written by candle- the system and unjustly labelled flects and, on occasion, shapes. light, of the gradual thawing of an unfit mother, Louise never The book coincides with a ret- her personal isolation through stopped fighting to get her chil- rospective exhibition Thomas the friendship of the characters dren back. With the unwavering Roberts 1748-1777 at the Na- of Blasket Island life today: support of her solicitor, Carmel tional Gallery of Ireland that fishermen, ferrymen, backpack- McGilloway, Louise fought a runs from 28 March to 28 June, ers, islanders descendants, four-year battle through the 2009. a dolphin, a weaver, a trio of courts. In June 2006 a judge Large Format Hardback; 416 seals, even a former taoiseach. ruled that her children should pages, 329 illustrations. Anita weaves a tapestry of tales: be returned to her. Told here for ghost stories told by the fireside, the first time, this is Louise’s Great Family Food stories of love and hatred, sto- own story: her feelings when her By Kevin Dundon ries celebrating womanhood. children were taken away, her Irish celebrity chef Kevin Ultimately, Anita s own story fears as she took on the system Dundon shares the recipes he is one of healing, survival and and her hopes for the future as cooks at home and shows how hope. Blasket Spirit reveals a she tries to rebuild her family easy it is to eat good food every timeless place where the souls of life. “A Mother’s Nightmare” Ruinairski the past and present are inextri- i s t h e day. Do you have a kitchen PUZZLE SOLUTION FROM PAGE 21 full of hungry kids? Expectant cably linked with the emotional story of guests sat round the dining and physical struggles of island a woman SAVE $$$ ON YOUR HOMEOWNERS INSURANCE! YOU MAY QUALIFY FOR UP TO A 33% DISCOUNT JUDITH M. FLYNN Insurance Agency, Inc. Call me for a quote today! Judie Flynn • 617-296-0350 1152 Washington Street, Dorchester Lower Mills Page 24 July 2009 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com

The Irish Echo presents the

Gateways to Tomorrow Conference Boston-Northwest Ireland Seaport Hotel and World Trade Centre Boston, Massachusetts

Wednesday 7, Thursday 8 October 2009

Speakers include: Senator Theresa Murray (President of Senate), Timothy Cahill, Treasurer State of Massachusetts, Tim Murray, Lieu- tenant Governor of Massachusetts, Conor Murphy, Minister of Re- gional Development North Ireland, David Gavaghan, CEO Strategic Investment Board of Northern Ireland, General James Cullen, Pád- raig Ó hAoláin, CEO Údarás na Gaeltachta, John Cullinane, Main- Message.org, Garvan O’Doherty, entrepreneur, Paul Dwyer, President A Wedding to Remember. ICCUSA New England, Joseph Leary, President Irish American Part- With Service to Savor. nership, Tom DiNapoli, Comptroller New York State (invited), James Barnes, Community Development Director City of Lawrence. After months of planning, your big day is here and it’s time to exhale. You’re at Seaport, Boston’s most accommodating host, where expectations are exceeded every day, and white-glove service is business as usual. Location isn’t everything, but our To register or for more information: www.irishecho.com/conference luxurious accommodations are one-of-a-kind, surrounded by spectacular views of Boston’s skyline and harbor. And there’s our Four Diamond cuisine, with menus crafted to your unique tastes by our world-class chefs. Add theatrical pinlighting “The most important initiative linking Boston and Derry in a gen- and our unparalleled attention to detail, and you’ve just pulled off the romantic event you eration.” Máirtín Ó Muilleoir, publisher Irish Echo. dreamed of—and one of your guests will long remember. This unique conference will be followed by the annual Irish Ameri- can Leaders of New England Awards Luncheon (in association with the Boston Irish Reporter)

1.617.385.4212 SeaportBoston.com TAILORED TO YOU

SBLI has earned an A+ RATING from A.M. Best for superior ﬁ nancial strength!

Tedy Bruschi, It’s My Game Plan SBLI Spokesman

Having a great game plan gives my team something to rely on when the unexpected happens on any given Sunday. The same is true for my team at home. If something happened to me, my family could go on, thanks to my life insurance policy from SBLI.

Take it from me—you never know when life will hit you hardest. You need to be ready. You need SBLI. They will be there for your family when you need them. CALL 1-888-GET-SBLI CLICK SBLI.com (438-7254)