Gatherings of the Clan

May 2010 VOL. 21 #5 $1.50 Boston’s hometown journal of Irish culture.

Participants in the First Annual Benefit Dance for Haiti had a grand time at the Marriott Boston Quincy Hotel on Sun., May 2, where they raised funds for the Friends of Orphans group to share with young victims of the January earthquake. Gala participants, from left: Pat “Doc” Walsh, co-chairman; Sharon Saxelby, president/ CEO, Friends of Orphans; Rev. Philip Cleary, president, Nuestros Pequenos Hermanos International; State Senator Tom Kennedy; Dan McAuliffe, of the committee; state Rep. Linda Dorcena Forry; Della Costello, of the committee, and Winnie Henry, co-chair and event organizer. See Page 11. Photos by Harry Brett.

The 2010 Eire Society dinner, at which Boston Irish Reporter Publisher Ed Forry received the society’s Gold Medal Award, was held on Fri., April 30, in the rooftop room at the Parker House. Forry, above right, shared a hearty laugh with dinner emcee Bill Bulger before receiving the award from Society Presi- dent Philip O’Brien, at rear. The honoree’s acceptance speech is on Page 10. More photos, Page 11.

ICCNE Scholar O’Leary Eyes The Cardinal, HAILS On the Go Congress The Politician ITS 20TH Page 2 State Sen. Robert The Cultural Centre University of Aber- O’Leary, who repre- Hanneke Cassell: of New England will deen Professor Thomas sents Cape Cod in the celebrate its 20th an- Bartlett has spent the Fiddler with Flair Legislature, is on the niversary with a gala last year as the Burns Page 14 campaign trail these event on its Canton Scholar in Irish studies campus on Saturday at Boston College. He days hoping to fill the Mary Callanan: evening, May 22. For talks about his busy U.S. House seat being vacated by William A Red Hot Mama more information, see and enjoyable time Page 14 Pages 12 and 13. there on Page 4. Delahunt. Page 6 Page 2 May 2010 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com THE CARDINAL AND THE POLITICIAN O’Connell Wielded Power Widely; Curley was Curley who had won the 1906 mayoral race, and Curley had already tilted the political landscape away from the Yankees in favor of the Irish. With ward bosses able to deliver the vote to populist, aggressive poli- ticians, O’Connell was determined that the Church would have a pronounced say in all matters, whether religious, cultural, social, or religious. He, too, was militant in his view that the proverbial torch was passing – or being seized – by his flock. In a blunt, memorable sermon in 1908, he contended: “The Puritan has passed; the Catholic remains.” O’Connell exerted an almost monarchical hold on the region’s Irish Catholics, steering them away from Protestant and Yankee influences, as social historian Paula Kane has noted. At the same time, O’Connell himself cultivated and maintained cordial and even friendly relations with Brahmin notables, attaining, for example, membership in the ultimate Brahmin refuge, The Country Club in Brookline. If a Boston Irish politician was ever out of step with the cardinal on issues ranging from the importance JAMES MICHAEL CURLEY: Viewed by the prelate of parochial schools and parochial civic organizations CARDINAL WILLIAM H. O’CONNELL: A pivotal as coarse and common. such as the Catholic Youth Organization, the Holy figure in the politics of his time. Name Society, and the Legion of Mary. O’Connell would wreak havoc on the man behind the scenes and dust-up, Boston-Irish legislators were reported to By Peter F. Stevens have sought O’Connell’s “input” on countless issues, BIR Staff through his own priests handing down his edicts at Sunday Masses. the pols acutely aware that to buck the cardinal was First in a three-part series. to court ballot-box woes. Both men had risen from poverty to the heights of One of O’Connell’s behind-the-scenes forays into the political realm came in the Boston mayoral election of As the 1930s unfolded, O’Connell, then more power. Both had made it their life’s work to wrest than two decades in power, was about to become an away entrenched Brahmin power and extend Irish 1930. That Curley and the cardinal did not like each other was a well-known fact. Although O’Connell even more pivotal figure in Massachusetts politics. Catholic influence in Boston and beyond. There the “Checking with Lake Street” (O’Connell’s regal home) similarities between “Himself” – James Michael might not have come at Curley overtly in the past, the rumors ran rampant that the prelate favored became increasingly important to election-day and Curley – and His Eminence – Cardinal William legislative victories for Boston Irish leaders on the O’Connell – evaporated. Curley’s chief opponent – Irish-Catholic Democratic attorney and politician Frederick W. Mansfield. local, state, and even national stages. The imperial, In The Boston Irish: A Political History, Thomas intimidating presence of O’Connell extended far H. O’Connor writes, “This [the rise of Boston Irish Thomas O’Connor writes: “Not only did Mansfield receive the backing of the GGA [Good Government beyond Lake Street. As Jack Beatty writes in his power] did not mean, however, that O’Connell and brilliant biography of curley, The Rascal King, “the Curley liked each other or that they were consciously Association] which saw the distinguished lawyer as Boston’s only hope to ‘prevent the return of machine new assertive mood in the church closely paralleled working toward the same goals. On the contrary, the new ethnic politics.” there was no love lost between the two men, although rule,’ but he was also rumored to have the blessing of His Eminence, Cardinal Henry O’Connell.” O’Connell embodied the church, Curley the ethnic they never allowed their hostility to become public.” politics. The lines between both entities grew increas- Public or not, it was no secret among Boston Irish Although Curley won, the rumor of O’Connell’s opposition gave a glimpse of just how much a player ingly blurred, with the church’s impact on elections politicos and clergy that the imperious cardinal looked and political issues on the rise. with disdain at Curley, the cultured, well-traveled, on the political landscape the cardinal had become. “Gangplank Bill” (a moniker accorded him due to his NEXT: An examination of the cardinal’s ongo- highly educated prelate viewing the politician as ing political impact and the blueprint his succes- coarse and common. many cruises to warmer climes) could hamstring pro- posed legislative bills by voicing opposition from his sors would follow in the ever-more controversial When O’Connell was named archbishop of Boston clashes of church and state in Massachusetts. in 1907, the rise of John “Honey Fitz” Fitzgerald, parishes’ pulpits. Long before the Curley-Mansfield

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E1492_E1685_NPO.indd 1 3/2/10 11:54:02 AM Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com May 2010 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 3 Around Town: The Irish Beat / Carol Beggy

To hear Colin Donnell tell it, his family hasn’t ever actually researched its roots in Ireland and Scotland. He says his Irish credentials are more physical. “Look at me: Black hair. Blue eyes. It’s only been a matter of just how Irish we are,” Donnell said. “We are Irish, I just don’t know the full story. I hope that one day we do find out our story better.” That day may have to come soon for Donnell, a singer/ actor who has been tapped by the American Reper- tory Theater to play the lead in the world premiere of “Johnny Baseball,” a musical about the Red Sox. Donnell plays the fictional Johnny O’Brien, a hotshot young pitcher on the 1919 Red Sox, who deals with the issues of race in baseball and society as he falls in love with Daisy Wyatt, a “dazzling African American blues singer,” played by Boston Conservatory alum Stephanie Umoh. Also in the mix is Johnny’s idol, Babe Ruth, and the origins Colin Donnell of “The Curse.” As the American Repertory Theater writes in its promotional material, “The entanglements of love, friendship, and betrayal in these lives contain both the reason for the Curse and the secret to its end off the bat of Big Papi in 2004.” Directed by the ART’s artistic director Diane Paulus, A Roper family gathering: Barbara and Bill with their grandaughter Charlotte, son Brendan, and “Johnny Baseball” is written by long-suffering Red Sox daughter-in-law Monica. Photo by Ed Forry. fan and Worcester area native Richard Dresser with music by Robert Reale and lyrics by Willie Reale (brothers and lifelong Yankees fans). For baseball fans in the area, the story of an Irish- Bill Roper, Granite Ave. Fixture, American player certainly rings true. The first Irish- Americans in baseball all seemed to pass through Boston, according to the Baseball Almanac. Andy Is Calling it Quits After 46 Years Leonard, who hailed from County Cavan, was the only Irish-born member of the “First Boys of Summer,” the By Ed Forry 1869 World Champion Cincinnati Red Stockings. The Reporter Publisher Illness – and time team had been in Boston first and Leonard competed When the new year dawned in January, Bill Roper in six world championships. That his heart was in made his way to his place of business on Granite Av- Boston, not the Midwest is clear. Leonard is buried enue, just as he had for the better part of the last five help with decision in New Calvary Cemetery in Roslindale. decades. Born and brought up in Dorchester Lower regular hours would return. *** Mills, he represents the second generation to own and Slowly, word emerged that the store owner had been The McCourt Foundation is gearing up for the an- operate the family-owned Roper’s Paint and Wallcover- stricken by some sudden, perhaps life-threatening ill- nual fundraiser to benefit neurologic diseases. The ing store in the Cedar Grove neighborhood. ness, and friends and customers sought out his family gala and auction will be held on May 7 at the Boston The business was established in 1951 by his father, to learn details of the illness. Few if any had ever heard Harbor Hotel and is one of several events the family William S. Roper, and young Bill joined the firm in of Guillain-Barré syndrome, and his friends worried is hosting to raise money for the foundation, which 1964, after graduation from Canada’s St. Mary’s Uni- over what might have caused him to be stricken. was founded by the seven sons of Robert and Mary versity. For many years, he worked alongside his father “I wasn’t sick before; I worked right through the McCourt. This year, the McCourt Foundation also and his younger brother George, both now deceased. holidays,” he explains. “I ended up with nine days at had a team running in the Boston Marathon, which As this year began, after more than half a lifetime on Mass General and they treated me with an intravenous raised funds for neurologic research and was partnered Granite Avenue, he was beginning to consider making kind of treatment.” After that, Roper was transferred with the Center for Neurologic Diseases at Brigham a change: Bill Roper’s thoughts were on retirement. to Sinai Hospital in Stoughton for physical therapy, and Women’s Hospital, with a focus on Alzheimer’s “I was thinking once I hit 70, which is a couple of and he began a long, slow recovery. More recently, he disease and multiple sclerosis. The research is lead months away, I would start getting serious about selling has returned to home, and was assisted by visiting by the Center’s co-founders Dr. Dennis Selkoe and the business,” he said in an interview between helping nurses. “Currently I am graduated to Milton Hospital. Dr. Howard Weiner, who have dedicated more than customers at the store last Saturday. But suddenly, They are wonderful, wonderful,” Roper says. “I can’t 30 years to the study of these disorders and are inter- an unexpected health issue changed his world. “Push say enough about them – all the physical therapists nationally recognized for their original contributions came to shout – three months ago today I was diag- I have had were great. They got me to the next level. to research. nosed with Guillain-Barré syndrome, an exotic kind of They were terrific.” *** auto-immune disease. It affected me, semi-paralyzing During his treatment, his wife and children pitched Boston resident James McDevitt isn’t waiting for me from the neck down.” in to open the doors for business for four hours every literary success to come to him, he’s out pounding Guillain-Barré is described as a disorder that attacks weekend. “I had my sons Brendan and Liam and my the pavement and working the social media for the part of the peripheral nervous system. Early symptoms daughter-in-law Monica here every Saturday,” he said. release of his first novel “The Last of the Last Call,” include weakness or tingling sensations in the legs, Last Saturday, on one of his first days back at work, which is due out via Amazon.com on May 11. McDevitt which sometimes spread to the arms and upper body. Roper beamed as he stopped for a picture with his wife has filled the coffee shops of South Boston and other The intensity can increase to the point where certain Barbara and their granddaughter Charlotte. neighborhoods with the cards announcing the books muscles cannot be used and a degree of paralysis sets in. But now, he says, the health scare has convinced him arrival and already started interacting with his fans Online medical descriptions state the syndrome is rela- it’s time to finish up and move on. He has contacted on jamesmcdevittwrites.com with news about the tively rare (about one in 100,000), and can strike at any a real estate broker and placed the property and the book’s release. age and both sexes. It is said to usually occur shortly business on the market. “Once I got sick, it pushed it According to the author, “The Last of the Last Call,” after the patient has had symptoms of a respiratory ahead that much faster,” he says. “I was all set to call is about three male college students during their senior or gastrointestinal viral infection. It is also reported in a realtor in January, then I came down with this year at the fictional Harrison University, a small col- to be triggered by surgery or vaccinations. exotic disease.” lege just outside of Washington, D.C. “Going to class is At first, customers found a small, hand-written How about his health now? “I’m improving, but I’m their best way to kill time between late nights at the “closed” sign posted on the front door. Some guessed he not perfect yet,” he says. But he has accepted the fact nearby bar and clubbing in the city,” McDevitt writes had been forced to close down the one-man operation that he must sell the family business, and seems to in his promotional material. for the day, perhaps to deal with a winter flu or a doc- have no regrets. The 20something author is a graduate of Catholic tor’s appointment. But that first afternoon turned to “I grew up in the business, came here in 1964,” Bill University, and keeps current with his social media days, days to weeks, and soon Roper’s had been closed Roper says. “It’s 40-some years, and I enjoyed every at Twitter.com/stoolattheend. for two weeks, and there was little indication of when minute of it.” 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.

May 7 – Direct from a four-week sold-out Merrimack Street. Box Office: 978-454-2299. May 23 – Ancient Order of Hibernians June 19 – John Boyle O’Reilly Commemora- run at London’s Hammersmith Apollo, the un- May 15 – The Saw Doctors at House of in America will commemorate the events of tion, Holyhood Cemetery, Brookline. 11 a.m. censored, uncut and as unpredictable as ever, Blues, 15 Lansdowne Street, Boston. 7 p.m. 1845-1855, The Great Hunger, An Gorta Mor, massaoh.org comedian Billy Connolly brings his hilarious, 1-888-693-2583, livenation.com. at the Boston Famine Memorial on the corner The Annual John Boyle O’Reilly Commemo- oxygen-depriving new show “Billy Connoilly May 18-22 – “The Dream Lives On: A Por- of School Street and Washington Street, in ration is sponsored by the Mass State Board of Live!” to Boston’s Citi Performing Arts Center trait of the Kennedy Brothers” -- Boston Pops downtown Boston, at 2 p.m. the Ancient Order of Hibernians. Reception to Shubert Theatre for one night only. at Boston Symphony Hall, 301 Massachusetts There will be a prayer service followed by a follow at Division 14 Watertown, 151 Water- May 9 – ICC drama: Set in the Boston Ave. 8 p.m. 1-866-266-1200, bso.org. Hear the laying of a wreath in the memory of those who town Street. Robert Bateman, Past State & area, “For Here or To Go” portrays Kay, world premiere featuring Peter Boyer (Ellis suffered. Prayers by Father Peter Nolan, Pas- National Historian and Member of Division 8 an Irish mother who turns to a traditional Island) and Lynn Ahrens (Ragtime), honoring tor of Most Precious Blood Parish, Hyde Park. in Lawrence will be the guest speaker. matchmaker to find her 39-year- old son the legacy of Massachusetts native sons John, Hosted by the James Michael Curley Division August 2-6 – Children’s Celtic Camp at a wife before his 40th birthday. The Irish Robert, and Edward Kennedy. “America’s Or- #1, Ancient Order of Hibernians in America. Irish Cultural Centre of New England. A fun Cultural Centre’s Drama Group’s newest chestra” and the Tanglewood Festival Chorus Contact Kevin Durant for more information at and educational program for children grades production promises to be an evening full of perform patriotic tunes and give an uplifting 617-872-6663 or [email protected], 1-8. Experience the fun of Irish tradition laughter and entertainment. The play will be performance not to be missed! or visit the order’s website:bostonhibernian. and culture through dance, music, literature presented Thursday-Saturday May 6, 7, and May 22 – Irish Cultural Centre’s 20th com/home. and more! Please call 781-821-8291 for more 8 at 8 p.m. and Sun., May 9, at 2 p.m. Irish Anniversary Gala, 6 p.m. Money raised from May 26 – Daniel O’Donnell, 7 p.m. at Lowell information. Space is limited, register early! Cultural Centre of New England, 200 New the Gala will allow the Centre to continue its Memorial Auditorium. 978-454-2299. The camp is still seeking teachers and junior Boston Drive, Canton. 781-821-8291 mission to promote and organize Irish cultural, June 11-13 – Worcester Irish Music Fes- counselors for the 2010 Camp Season. For more May 12 – Michael Flatley’s Lord of the educational, sporting and social events. Tickets tival, Hibernian Cultural Centre & Fiddlers’ information and job descriptions please send Dance at Lowell Memorial Auditorium. 8 are $150 per person or $275 per couple. ICCNE, Green 19 Temple Street, Worcester. worces- an e-mail to Louise O’Shea at louiseoshea@ p.m. Lowell Memorial Auditorium, 50 East 200 New Boston Drive, Canton. 781-821-8291. teririshmusicfestival.com. irishculture.org. Page 4 May 2010 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com Publisher’s Notebook Commentary Boston Irish Team British Election a High Stakes Game Up to Help for Three Party Leaders in the North Haiti Orphans By Robert P. Connolly held half of the seats, Sinn Fein was the leading na- A large group of Bostonians of Irish heritage, chaired Special to the BIR tionalist party with five seats, followed by the SDLP by Winnie Henry of Milton and Pat “Doc” Walsh of BELFAST – While the party leaders who have with three, and the UUP with one. Dorchester, gathered with friends on Sun., May 2, to the most at stake in this month’s British election are Among the key issues to watch: raise funds to support relief efforts for Haitian children named Brown, Cameron, and Clegg, the leaders of three Will the current ten unionist/eight nationalist seat orphaned by the January 12 earthquake in Haiti. of Northern Ireland’s four main political parties also balance of power change? Unionists could pick up two Organizing as “Irish Hearts for Haiti Committee,” a have a lot riding on the outcome of the Westminster additional seats, while nationalists could add a ninth group of more than 30 Irish-born and Irish Americans vote. seat but probably will be fortunate to hold serve. had been meeting for months to make On the surface, a British parliamentary election does Will Adams continue to be a political colossus in his plans for the event at the Quincy not mean as much in Northern Ireland as it once did. West Belfast constituency, where he won 70 percent Marriott Hotel. Working with her With the Northern Ireland Assembly up and running and 66 percent of the vote in the last two Westminster family and the committee, Winnie, and with most governmental power now in the hands elections? And will Sinn Fein hold its five seats? One the widow of Irish music legend Noel of Assembly ministers, much of the action has moved of those seats appears to be in jeopardy because of a Henry, organized a very successful from London to Belfast. unionist alliance in Fermanagh-South Tyrone. day of continuous Irish music and “Westminster matters less,” notes Will the DUP be able to maintain its nine seats entertainment at the hotel from 2 Queen’s University Belfast politics and will Peter Robinson’s vote ebb in his East Belfast p.m. to 9 p.m. professor Paul Bew. “It matters, constituency? The event featured the music of but just not as much as it used to.” Will the UUP be able to claim a single seat and did the party’s alliance with the Conservatives turn into Ed Forry many of Boston’s leading Irish musi- But in a place where politics is cians, including Erin’s Melody with closely watched and where politi- a complete disaster when Tory leader David Cameron Margaret Dalton, the Andy Healy Band, Noel Henry’s cal leaders take on the significance said Britain must reduce spending in the North? Irish Showband, Fintan Stanley, John Connors & the Irish of tribal chieftains, three lead- Bew, a longtime observer of Northern Ireland’s poli- Express, and Larry Reynolds and Comhaltas Ceoltóirí ers – Gerry Adams of Sinn Fein, tics, said there is no chance that Adams, the president Eíreann. There was also a silent auction and raffle prizes. Reg Empey of the Ulster Unionist of Sinn Fein, will lose his West Belfast seat. “The West The organizers promised and pulled off a festive day- Party, and Peter Robinson of the Belfast investment in Sinn Fein and in the personality long event with music, dance and “no speeches,” with Democratic Unionist Party – will of Adams is so great, it’s not possible to unhook now,” all proceeds going to provide some measure of relief to Robert P. have their own performances and he noted. suffering children in Haiti. Connolly the performances of their parties Still, Adams is feeling a heightened level of political In a statement, the organizers gave the reason for their parsed and measured. pressure and is being importuned to be more candid activities: “With over half of Haiti’s population under As the Westminster election took shape, Adams, about his connections to the IRA. Adams denies ever the age of 18, a disproportionate number of children Empey, and Robinson were buffeted by controversy having served in the paramilitary organization but are exposed to disease, death, and suffering. This was and were dealing with burgeoning crises. those denials are treated with skepticism by virtually the grim reality before the earthquake. Now, there are Adams was still feeling the effects of Sinn Fein’s poor everyone in the North. Many say that Adams was a top estimates that over one million children will be orphaned electoral showing in the Republic of Ireland last year, commander and helped to direct the IRA’s campaign and without urgent healthcare. the child-abuse charges lodged against his brother, of violence. “Supporting agencies who provide care to the children Liam Adams, and, most recently, was on the defensive Last month, speaking at the annual Easter Rising of Haiti is the aim of the first Annual Benefit Dance for after a book charged that he was directly involved in commemoration in Belfast’s Milltown Cemetery, Ad- Haiti: From the hearts of the Irish to our brothers and Irish Republican Army acts of violence. ams equated attacks against him to an assault on the sisters in Haiti. With your support, financial and volun- Robinson, Northern Ireland’s first minister and the republican ideal of a united Ireland. teer services will be provided to orphaned and abandoned political successor to Ian Paisley, was dealing with stark “And let no one think that I will bend to the demands children through the organization of Friends of the marital issues and charges of cozy business dealings of anti-republican elements or their allies in a hostile Orphans: Nos Petit Frères et Soeurs (NFPS- French for with a local developer. section of the media,” Adams said, as he spoke near “Our Little Brothers and Sisters”). Empey’s issues were less personal, but his effort to the graves of the IRA’s hunger-strikers and military “The work of NPFS is critically important, as access bring the once-proud Ulster Unionist Party out of the heroes.“This is bigger than me. This is about us as a to healthcare is basically non-existent. Through their political wilderness seemed to be foundering. Some republican community,” he added. pediatric hospital, St. Damien, free medical services, members of his party objected to his decision to form a As is always the case, elections are about many things, including surgery and physical therapy, will be pro- political alliance with Britain’s Conservative Party. The including what role, if any, the North’s parties will play vided in addition to other outreach programs providing UUP’s only MP, Sylvia Hermon, left the party and was if the election writ large produces a “hung parliament,” food, water, education, and assistance for the disabled.” running as an independent because of her unwillingness with none of the three major parties in Britain achieving Friends of the Orphans is a registered 501(c)3 nonprofit to be tied to the Tories. a majority in the House of Commons and thus needing corporation, Federal Tax ID# 65-1229309, that meets all The party leader with the least on the line was the to cobble together that rara avis in British politics: a 20 BBB Charity Standards. Donations are tax deductible Social Democratic and Labor Party’s new chief, Mar- coalition government. to the extent provided by law. garet Ritchie. No matter where the location, politics is a rough and Several Irish media outlets participated as sponsors of Northern Ireland sends 18 MPs to Britain’s 650-seat fascinating sport, and it is all that and more in the tiny the event, including 950 AM WROL, The Irish Emigrant, House of Commons. Going into the election, the DUP but intense corner of the world that is Northern Ireland. the Boston Herald, the Dorchester and Mattapan Reporter newspapers and the Boston Irish Reporter. Other business sponsors include Marriott Boston Quincy and the Courier Corporation. – Ed Forry BC’s Burns Scholar: a non-stop life Library Death Squads? By Ana Lopez a week through a budget airline, which is extremely Geneology researchers are sounding the alert about Special to the BIR cheap, like ten or fifteen dollars,” he said, “so the taxi draconian cutbacks in library services Boston Public If you had told Thomas Bartlett in 1970 that 40 cab fare to the airport is always more expensive than Library. Last month, the trustees revealed plans to years later he would be the Burns Scholar at Boston the flight itself.” close four branch libraries. Now the board is said to be College, teaching classes on Ireland in the early mod- In Aberdeen, Bartlett is a staple in the history de- making plans to dismantle the print-based library ser- ern era and researching the holdings of the “best Irish partment, teaching American and Irish history while vices in favor of digital publications for computer users. collection in North America,” he probably would not writing often. There have been countless essays and, The Massachusetts Genealogical Council (MGC) has have believed you. in 1996, he published “A Military History of Ireland,” sounded an alert about “planned cutbacks in the pre- Then a graduate student at the University of of which he says, “I think it has stood the test of time miere resource in Massachusetts for modern newspapers Michigan, Bartlett had come to the United States from pretty well.” and for papers outside of Massachusetts.” In an e-mail, Ireland to engross himself in the study of American The professor was long on the Burns Scholar track Barbara Mathews, President of MGC, wrote: “ALERT: colonial history. It was in Ann Arbor that he stumbled before coming to BC. “I was asked about eight years ago,” The Microtext Department and Newspaper Room at upon a set of documents that changed the course of he said. “That’s actually very good because it gives you the Boston Public Library are in danger of being closed his academic life. an opportunity to plan. … It seemed like a long time, and their resources distributed to alternate locations “I had no interest in doing Irish history at all, re- a massively long time, but it comes by pretty quickly.” within AND outside of the Central Library in Copley ally,” Bartlett said recently while sitting in a crowded Bartlett spends most of his time poring over the Square.... it appears that the Microtext Department coffee bar on the BC campus. “But when I was at Ann holdings in the Burns library, a prized collection of and Newspaper Room at the Boston Public Library are Arbor, I realized that there were Irish documents here rare and unique documents and books housed in the slated to be closed.” that were generally unknown in Ireland. So I started Bapst Library on the edge of campus. In addition, he She concluded, “The Boston Public Library Annual working on them and they started to form the basis committed to teaching two courses and giving two public Meeting will be held Tues., May 11, at 8:30 a.m. at the of my PhD.” lectures during the year. He has taught a on Ireland in Copley Square Library. Let’s let our voices be heard and Wearing the academician’s uniform of an earth-toned the 1790s to a group of graduate students and one on make an impact now before that important meeting.” sweater and muted slacks, Bartlett’s approachable early modern Ireland to undergraduates. – E.F. worldliness is perfectly suited to life in a classroom. Bartlett’s curiosity keeps him on a busy schedule. “I He has wise, yet questioning eyes, the sort that speak wrote a paper while I was here about the first librarian to decades spent in locales of choice: libraries and of the Burns Library because her papers were [here]. I Boston Irish lecture halls. thought I’d take a look at these papers and I was quite Bartlett published his doctoral research, centered intrigued by the documents and correspondence she left REPORTER on the Townshend viceroyalty and inspired by the behind.” He then went public with his findings about The Boston Irish Reporter is published monthly by: documents uncovered in Michigan, in 1976 and was Helen Landreth, Burns librarian for nearly 30 years. Boston Neighborhood News, Inc., awarded his PhD from Queens University in Belfast. “I gave it as one of my lectures,” he said. “It might be 150 Mt. Vernon St., Suite 120, Dorchester, MA 02125 Since then, his life has been about the study of Ireland. published, we’ll see.” [email protected] www.bostonirish.com “I’ve always taught American history,” he said, … “but Bartlett has not been a campus hermit. “I like Boston Mary C. Forry, President (1983-2004) Irish history is three-fourths of what I teach.” very much,” he said. “I’ve been here before for a couple Edward W. Forry, Publisher As a scholar of Irish history, Bartlett has assumed of days, but nothing serious. My wife is here with me Thomas F. Mulvoy Jr., Managing Editor numerous visiting professorships: “I had a Fulbright to and she’s enjoyed the Boston experience, as well. We William P. Forry, Contributing Editor Michigan in 1982 so I went there for a year and then, find the city very manageable—we take the T—and have Peter F. Stevens, Contributing Editor in 1997, I was at the University of Washington in Se- met a lot of new friends. … We drive around a bit; we go attle and in 1999 at Notre Dame,” he said. Travel, and to New Hampshire or Cape Cod for the weekend if the News Room: (617) 436-1222 Ads : (617) 436-1222 weather is nice,” he said. “I like Cape Cod very much, Fax: (617) 825-5516 [email protected] particularly the conjunction of travel with research, has been a constant of enjoyment for Bartlett throughout his it’s nice going there in the off-season.” he conceded that On The Web at www.bostonirish.com he has occasionally stopped by a local tavern. “Purely Date of Next Issue: June, 2010 career. A voracious consumer of his new surroundings, Deadline for Next Issue: Friday, May 21, at 2 p.m. he constantly is reordering his findings via lectures, in the interest of research, of course,” he added. Published monthly in the first week of each month. papers, or integrating them into his teaching. His time as a Burns Scholar will end early next month, The Boston Irish Reporter is not liable for errors appearing in advertisements beyond the cost of the Even on his home turf, the University of Aberdeen, but Professor Bartlett hopes to return in September to space occupied by the error. The right is reserved by The Boston Irish Reporter to edit, reject, or cut Bartlett is a bit of a visitor, as he commutes from publicize his newest book, a history of Ireland set to be any copy without notice. Dublin twice a week. “There is a flight several times published this month. This scholar never stops. Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com May 2010 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 5 Commentary Commentary British Elections Loom Crucial How About to Peace in Northern Ireland a Real Act

By Joe Leary the threat of increased violence is growing every day. Special to the BIR The 30-foot to 36-foot high concrete and steel walls of Contrition? The results of the upcoming British Parliamentary separating Catholic and Protestant communities and By James W. Dolan elections will have a profound effect upon peace and neighborhoods seem to grow every year. Euphemistically understanding amongst the conflicted people of Northern referred to as “Peace Walls,” these tragic reminders of Special to the Reporter Ireland. The people of the United Kingdom, including simmering hatred actually divide people, creating more What will my church do to confront the continuing Northern Ireland, will elect 650 members of the newly and more distrust on either side. There will not be true scandal associated with the sexual abuse of children? constituted Parliament, which will rule the country for understanding and confidence in Northern Ireland until In an effort to avoid scandal, church leaders were the next five years unless the new government fails to these walls are gone. complicit in efforts to cover up not only serious maintain its majority. Unfortunately, the fear on both sides of the walls is crimes but also grievous sins. Each member will be paid approximately $100,000 plus so deep that people want them to stay. They want to Concerned more about perpetrators than victims; additional expenses for travel, lodging, and constituent sleep nights. more about scandal than truth; and more about services. For most members and prospective members This is a troubled society that requires careful atten- image than justice; the church allowed the evil of Parliament, however, it is the tion, understanding, and support. to continue. In doing so, it undermined its moral power, the prestige, and the let- But the leader of the Conservative Party in London, authority and caused many Catholics to look else- ters MP after their names that David Cameron, in a campaign interview as part of where for spiritual guidance. are the prime motivators. his appeal for votes, called for cuts in what the British How has “The Rock,” the institution established In the British system, the government spends in Northern Ireland. Apparently by Christ to teach others to know, love, and serve winning political party must he feels that such a position will gain him approval Him, been split asunder? What can be done to sal- achieve at least 51 percent of from the voters. What obviously counts is his election vage what is left of its reputation and regain the the delegates to take power and to prime minister, and not what might be helpful to the moral high ground that it once so proudly (perhaps be asked by the Queen to elect people of Northern Ireland. too proudly) occupied. a prime minister who will run This year, for the first time, the three leaders of the I do not expect perfection in the church for it is, the country. In this election, major parties held American-style television debates. after all, an institution composed of flawed human then, the successful party must According to newspaper polls and all the experts, there beings. But, I do expect it to perform better than win 326 delegates. That is un- was a clear winner. Nick Clegg, leader of the smaller institutions who do not profess such a lofty purpose. likely this time and many are Liberal Democrats, trounced his two rivals, Cameron This crisis can be either an opportunity for renewal Joe Leary predicting a “hung parliament” and Prime Minister Gordon Brown, leader of the Labor or the last gasp of an institution that many now necessitating agreements and Party currently in power. There is no telling from this see as irrelevant. compromises among competing parties before a new distance the effect on voting that Clegg’s success will Catholics are encouraged to confess and repent government can be formed. have, but this may the most interesting British election their sins. Is it too much to expect our church to Northern Ireland will elect 18 members of the new in many years. do the same? government. None of these delegates is likely to have Television debates were also used for the first time Rather than blame the media, the church must much impact on the Parliament. Sinn Fein, for instance, in Northern Ireland, but there was no distinct winner. acknowledge its institutional responsibility for this refuses to pledge allegiance to the Queen and therefore Political positions are too well known in Northern Ire- evil. It can act like many secular institutions by its five current delegates have not been seated. When land for there to be surprises. A debate is not going to blaming the perpetrators and not those who knew John Hume and Ian Paisley were MPs, they were influ- change a Unionist vote to a Nationalist vote. The contest or should have known what was happening and ential. But today, except for Gerry Adams of Sinn Fein, is between the Sinn Fein and SDLP for the National failed to prevent it. no one from Northern Ireland has much recognition. vote and between the DUP and the former UUP for the I was taught confession first requires an examina- On the other hand, the Parliament and its leader, the Unionist vote. tion of conscience. This requires a degree of humility. prime minister, have nearly complete control over what In a controversial development, Sir Reg Empy, the One should not step into a confessional prepared happens in Northern Ireland. leader of the UUP, David Trimble’s old party, has formed to blame others for his sins. In asking forgiveness, With all the talk about devolved government and an alliance with Cameron’s Conservatives and named one should accept responsibility. Confession is not the Northern Ireland Assembly being responsible for the new party the Ulster Conservative Unionist Party a plea bargain but an act of contrition. its people, it should be remembered that the British (UCU). The UCU is running candidates in all but one My church has failed in its responsibility to Army is still in the North, that all its foreign affairs of the 18 constituencies. confess and acknowledge the guilt at all levels for are controlled out of London, and that the police intel- In the last British Parliamentary election five years facilitating the commission of grievous sins upon ligence operation called MI5 is still active and in control ago, Ian Paisley’s DUP elected 9 MPs, Sinn Fein 5, SDLP the innocent. The church should be publicly on its with a brand-new building and its agents and informers 3, and the UUP 1. This year three former MPs are not knees asking forgiveness of God and the victims. reporting back to London. running, Edward McGrady of the SDLP, Paisley of the In a real sense, God is one of the victims. Make no mistake: the Northern Ireland Assembly DUP, and Iris Robinson of the DUP. Penance is an acknowledgement of guilt. Con- exists at the pleasure of the British Parliament. Margaret Ritchie, the new leader of the SDLP, will fession is not enough; it is particularly important Serious problems still exist in the North. Its economy probably replace McGrady, Ian Paisley’s son should re- that the church publicly manifest its guilt. Instead is sustained by government spending. Some 40 percent place him, and Iris Robinson will probably be succeeded of seeking to protect themselves, the responsible of the working people are employed by the government. by James Shannon, another DUP politician. One of the “princes” of the church should resign their lofty And new business is simply not attracted to civic unrest. Sinn Fein seats may be in jeopardy where Michelle positions and find ways to directly serve the sick Two sizeable bombs exploded in Northern Ireland last Gildernow is facing a Unionist consensus candidate, and the poor as missionaries or devote themselves month. One targeted a South Armagh police station, the Rodney Connor. Alasdair McDonnell of the SDLP is to lives of prayer in monasteries. other exploded outside the new intelligence-gathering also facing a difficult re-election bid. Cardinal Bernard Law may be sorrowful for his building. Though only a few were injured, it is clear Both national parties, the SDLP and Sinn Fein, role in the Greater Boston sexual abuse scandal that not all is well. constantly remind voters that they are resolutely for but his acceptance of a comfortable assignment in A very small breakaway group of former IRA fighters, a United Ireland and the Unionist parties are aggres- Rome was a mistake. It did not reflect the kind of who call themselves “The Real IRA” and are labeled “dis- sively defending their allegiance to the United Kingdom. public atonement the faithful should expect of the sidents” by the media, have been blamed for the attacks. Though this will be an interesting election in Northern hierarchy. The new head of the Police Service of Northern Ireland Ireland itself, the real impact for its people will come Christ suffered and died for our sins, not His (PSNI), Chief Constable Matt Baggott, said recently that from the results in England, Scotland, and Wales. own. Something less drastic by those that failed to act responsibly in this crisis would be in keeping with that example. It would also help to restore the respect and confidence that has been lost. Cathedral High’s Sister Mary Black A public display of penance and sorrow for the harm that has been done would underscore the difference between a church that claims divine is Celebrating a Half-Century of Service. guidance and a government agency. Up to now, She is the daughter of a teacher and she grew up in counseling for women church leaders have acted more like high ranking the west suburban town of Medway. Now Sister Mary religious, high school military officers running away from responsibility Black, she obviously inherited a passion and aptitude for students, pregnant teens, for a wartime atrocity. teaching. Her compassion and patience with students in and battered women. She The church expects a penitent not only to be her classrooms at Cathedral High is the stuff of legend. facilitated intervention remorseful but also to resolve to avoid sin and its One of four Black sisters, Mary and her family sum- and conflict resolution “near occasion” – a conscientious effort to reform. mered in Scituate where she developed into an excep- and responded to crisis But what of the church? Will it use this crisis to tionally strong swimmer. The eldest of the brood, she needs with referrals and address institutional flaws that likely contributed was exceptionally close to her siblings, Susanne and the support services. to the problem? twins Jayne and Joan. (Joan passed away last summer). Sister Mary has served Married priests and women priests would provide She often filled in as a surrogate parent causing some on numerous boards from a healthy new perspective in an institution that consternation at dinner time due to her limited culinary 1986 to the present day. for too long has been the exclusive domain of men. repertoire of tomato soup and grilled cheese sandwiches. As a fundraiser and I believe women would not have permitted the She also tested her father’s patience during a driving development officer her problem to continue. They would have been more lesson when alone in an expansive parking lot she man- success allows for few sensitive to the harm that was being done to victims. aged to wedge the family car between a rock and a pole. comparisons. Greater emphasis on the Kingdom of God and Mary Black knew when she was 17 that she wanted She has accomplished less on the “kingdom of the church” would help to pursue a religious vocation and teach. She earned a so much and touched the Sister Mary Black to make the church more relevant. Would Christ B.A. in mathematics from Regis College in Weston and lives of so many. Ener- have been comfortable in the splendid isolation of a master’s in physics and engineering mathematics from getic, enthusiastic, always positive, even relentless are the Vatican? I think not. Catholic University in Washington, D.C. adjectives used to describe this remarkable person. She Restructure, reorganization, and reform are As a teacher Sister Mary quickly set a standard of excel- has loved her life and has many wonderful stories to tell. not words one would normally associate with the lence for teachers, something to which many thousands As much as she has accomplished, the most remarkable church but this crisis provides an opportunity to of students will attest. She nurtured an environment thing about Sister Mary Black is the way in which she do just that. If viewed as an opportunity, it could where every student wanted to excel and she would has accomplished so much -- with a grace and dignity be the beginning of a “Restoration” movement that expertly guide them as they worked toward their goals. that sets her apart and inspires admiration in all she over time would better reflect its role as a spiritual And her story continues. meets. Many captains of industry take her call and beacon in a troubled world. She taught physics, math, and religion; she chaired respond consistently with full commitment. When an institution professes to be Christ’s math and science departments; she designed curriculum Sister Mary Black will celebrate 50 years of service instrument on earth, it naturally elevates expecta- for math, science, and peace studies; she moderated stu- as a member of the Congregation of St. Joseph on Wed., tions. Disappointed and ashamed, the faithful have dent council and a student athletic program; she founded May 26, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Seaport Hotel. For a right to demand more. a gospel choir and produced annual school musicals in more information, contact Conventures, Inc. at 617-204- James W. Dolan is a retired Dorchester District volving over 100 students each year. 4230 or [email protected]. Court judge who now practices law. As a counselor she offered one-to-one and small group Page 6 May 2010 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com BIR Profile Rob O’Leary, State Senator for Cape and Islands, Looks to Congress With an Eager, Practiced Eye

By Greg O’Brien Special to the BIR Giving new definition to irony, Rob O’Leary’s academic pedigree in the spirited arena of Boston politics reads like one from central casting: Kimball Union Academy in New Hampshire; The School of Foreign Service at Georgetown University where he rubbed shoulders with a young Bill Clinton; a master’s in public policy from Harvard; and a PhD in history from Tufts. The state senator serving Cape Cod and the Islands, with his trademark Kennedy good looks, was the first Democrat to represent the region in the state Legislature since the Civil War. He now seeks bigger fish to fry — by replacing retiring Congressman Bill Delahunt in the state’s 10th Congressional District. The 64-year-old Boston native, who now lives in Cummaquid, learned the rule of the streets at an early age, hanging out with his older brother, Jim, now a district court judge, and his brother’s best friend, Paul Tsongas — the former congressman, U.S. senator, and presidential candidate, who died of cancer in 1997. O’Leary likes to tell the story of the day his brother and Tsongas took the board exams to enter law school. Tsongas, as the story goes, turned to his brother and said, “Jim, I screwed around for four years at Dartmouth, and I’m going to make it up now in four hours!” O’Leary, by his own admission, followed suit in a sort of self-redemption, although his learning curve was more elliptical and his rebound longer than a few hours. Early on, O’Leary’s academic record was about as impressive as “Big Papi’s” batting average of late. A lot of whiffs. “I lost my way,” O’Leary says candidly, noting he never took schoolwork seriously until his senior year at Georgetown. “I then had to repair my academic record.” Short of expunging it, his only op- tion was graduate school, he concluded. A Cape constituent gets a hand on the shoulder and a friendly word from his state senator. Photo cour- Such lackluster performance might have forced a tesy Sen. O’Leary’s office. lesser man out of educational circles, but not Robert Aiden O’Leary, who went on to become a longtime Dan O’Leary met his future wife, Miss Moriarty, in O’Leary’s segue into politics was more out of a history professor at the Massachusetts Maritime the classroom as a young high school teacher in Bos- desire to serve than anything else. His passion was Academy. With all due respect to his humble posture, ton. Years later they re-connected on Carson Beach teaching. Always. his intellect and street smarts propelled him forward— during the summer, developed a relationship, and got He joined the Barnstable Civic Association and sprung from a sturdy family tree with roots reaching married. More pragmatic than her bookish spouse, became its president, then in 1987 won election as a back to West Cork and Sligo. she was the disciplinarian of the family. “She could Barnstable County Commissioner. He was instrumen- O’Leary’s paternal grandfather, James, a first gen- be strict,” says her son during in an interview recently tal in reorganizing county government on the Cape and eration Irish American from West Cork and a man on the campaign trail. “With all those kids going in in creating the Cape Cod Commission, the regulatory with a penetrating Irish accent, labored as a bellhop different directions, she ran that family at times like land use agency. In 2000, he won election to the State in Boston in providing for his six children. O’Leary’s the Marine Corps. But she is very caring and there’s Senate, replacing Republican Henri Rauschenbach, paternal grandmother, Bridget (McMann), a char- a shyness to her.” who had been appointed to a post in the Jane Swift ismatic individual who commanded respect at first O’Leary inherited his appreciation of history from administration. sight, raised the family in humble surroundings in his father and his sense of caring from both parents. Asked how his late father would have felt about the the South End, not far from where the Boston Herald But growing up in Lowell, he didn’t distinguish himself election of his prodigal son to the state Senate after now sits on Harrison Avenue. Their children did well: in the classroom or on the playing fields—attending years of directing, almost herding, him toward more O’Leary’s father, Dan, was a college president with Oakland Elementary School, Moody Junior High productive circles, O’Leary paused. “I’ve never been triple degrees from Boston College; Uncle Jim was a School, and Keith Academy, a high school then run asked the question,” he says in an emotional moment. well-known surgeon; Uncle Tim was the No. 2 man in by the Xaverian Brothers. “I think my dad would have been proud. I think he the Boston Department of Public Works; Aunt Helen “I wasn’t much for sports,” he says. “I played some would have been quite pleased. I regret he was not was head of nursing at Boston City Hospital; Aunt tennis, and I tried out for varsity basketball as a guard. there to see it.” Marguerite was a respected businesswoman; and I was one of those kids they put on the junior varsity Since his election, O’Leary’s work ethic has been Uncle Connie, an Air Force pilot who was shot down when you were a senior.” in overdrive and he is considered to be among the and killed over New Guinea in World War II, grew up In school, O’Leary indeed was on cruise control, most productive members of the Senate. He is Sen- as best friend to Maurice Tobin, the former mayor of gazing out the window as the course work passed him ate Chairman of the Joint Committee on Education Boston, governor of Massachusetts, and Secretary of by. And so his dad sent him to a year at the vener- and Senate Vice Chairman of the Joint Committee on Labor under Harry Truman. able Kimball Academy in Meridan, N.H., established State Administration & Regulatory Oversight. Earlier Talk about overachievers. And their work ethic was in 1812 by the Council of New England Churches to this year, he was intimately involved in passage of the passed down to the next generation. “It’s a classic assist in “the education of poor and pious young men Education Reform Bill, the state’s first major piece Irish family,” says O’Leary, self-deprecating in his for the gospel ministry.” The father was just hoping of education legislation in 16 years. He also played a assessment of himself. “I was the trouble maker, a the son would get religion in the classroom. Some of key role as a sponsor of the Ocean Management Act, complete screw off at times, the guy you tried to save it took, enough at least to get him into Georgetown the first in the nation to zone state waters for offshore from landing in a homeless shelter,” he recalls in jest. where he absorbed the culture. renewal energy uses. Hardly the case; such hyperbole likely masks a In O’Leary’s freshman year, he was helping a friend In many ways, Rob O’Leary is an example of the family pecking order—common with the Irish. While run for class president. “I was walking to class one day, redemptive potential in all of us, an everyman who O’Leary’s attention span may have failed him at times, and a guy comes up to my friend and starts talking persevered and found the handle on his God-given gifts. the family genes triumphed over hasty missteps. to him,” O’Leary recalls. “ ‘Who’s that,’ I asked after A personal role model was Ted Kennedy; the two were O’Leary’s father, now deceased, and his mother the conversation. “Oh, that’s just my opponent,” his friends, working closely together on Cape and Islands Marguerite (Moriarty), who grew up in South Boston friend replied. “I’m going to kill him in the election.” issues. “What was striking about Ted Kennedy is that and lives in South Yarmouth, also raised six children The opponent was Bill Clinton, and the election result the older he got, the better he was,” says O’Leary. “He of impressive note. In birth order: Nancy is a retired was what you would expect, but for Rob O’Leary, it was more on track, more energized. I always loved school principal; Jim is the judge, a Dukakis appointee; was a baptism in politics and life in general. that quality in him. He was full speed ahead, right up Dan is a neuro-radiologist and president of Carney “Bill Clinton,” he says, “was smooth as silk, and the until the end. He made his share of mistakes, but he Hospital; Ellen is a retired schoolteacher; and Debbie, women loved him. I sat in class with him, and he was never quit. I have tremendous admiration for that.” an “Irish twin” born the same year as O’Leary, is a very glib, and exceptionally bright. He was the kind of A long distance runner, who still covers five miles a successful real estate broker. guy who was on a first name basis with the president day when his schedule allows, O’Leary finds comfort Large families often relegate modesty to the bottom of the school a week after he arrived, while the rest of in Kennedy’s legacy later in life. The senator also rungs, but O’Leary over time learned to persevere and us were trying to figure our class schedules. He had taught O’Leary the need to reach across the political was blessed by a vision, brought on by a lesson his so much talent he could make it all work.” aisle for compromise where appropriate. “You never parents taught him: devotion to the cause of others. Making it all work finally sunk in with O’Leary, accomplish anything on your own,” O’Leary says. “It’s O’Leary’s father was a cerebral type, a history profes- who began turning his attention in his senior year to a collective effort at all levels. You always have to be sor, who read a book a day. “He was totally committed a game plan for the future. Certainly no Robert Frost willing to give credit to others.” to education,” says O’Leary, who lived in Roxbury’s who took the road less traveled, O’Leary followed in Every day now, O’Leary sets his sights on a winning Egleston Square until he was eight, then moved to his father’s footsteps, where he discovered the light course for his congressional race. While he won’t admit Lowell. “He was also very political. I’m probably a lot of success. it, he appears driven to show his father that all the like him. Dad could be strict, every once in a while After Georgetown, O’Leary taught in the public angst and instruction were worth it. “I wasn’t waiting coming down on us like a ton of bricks, but he also schools and at the Massachusetts College of Art, served for this opportunity to happen, although I always had let out rope in our teenage years, allowing us to learn in the Army Reserve, and worked on his graduate it in the back of my head” he concedes. from our mistakes.” degrees. He then taught history and politics at the Now when the starting gun in life goes off, O’Leary The elder O’Leary attended Boston College High Massachusetts Maritime Academy in Buzzards Bay sprints. He never looks back. So don’t be surprised if School, Boston College, then Boston College graduate where he is a tenured professor today. He also is an he sets records. school where he earned a PhD in history. He taught adjunct professor at Cape Cod Community College. history for many years, later becoming president of O’Leary, now divorced, moved to the Cape in the early Greg O’Brien is editor and president of Stony Brook Lowell State College. He was influential in the school’s 1970s, after spending summers there as a youth. He Group, a publishing and political/communications transition to the University of Lowell, becoming its first has three daughters — Christine, a special education strategy company based in Brewster. He is the au- chancellor. Today the school is part of the University teacher; Katherine, an attorney; and Nicole, still in thor/editor of several books and contributes to several of Massachusetts. school on the Cape. He also has four grandchildren. publications. Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com May 2010 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 7 Boston Irish Reporter’s Here & There

By Bill O’Donnell As noted in this space earlier, Ireland, party leaders shuttling over to Belfast Order now consider —and rightfully Is Sinn Fein’s Abstention Policy with its minimal corporate tax rate of in search of a nod or a wink from one or so – an All-Ireland tourist spot: Dying -- Maybe it’s because Gerry Ad- 12.5 percent, a third of the US corporate more of the province’s electoral elite. It’s Limerick has had its share of woes but ams has had some recent personal set- levy, has attracted a number of large the stuff of dreams. it is a proud old city, full of history and backs along with companies (Microsoft, Google, and many UFOs And Ancient History -- The a robust citizenry. On May 13 Limerick his party’s elec- Big Pharma firms) that have parked facts are bullet-proof. County Derry City will unveil a bronze bust in the city toral hopes, but the profits in low-tax Ireland and effectively and the grand old walled city of Derry centre honoring one of its most celebrated call for the voice of shielded those substantial revenues from have reported seeing more unidentified sons, the Pulitzer Prize winning author the Provos to end the Internal Revenue Service at home. flying objects (UFOs) than any other Frank McCourt, who died last July. their parliamen- The president has revved up a campaign area in Ireland north or south. Why is McCourt’s bust will join another world- tary abstention is to tighten tax rules that would shelter that? Inquiring minds want to know. famous Limerick native, the actor Rich- growing louder. less of those overseas profits but appar- Well, Betty Meyler, president of the ard Harris, who is remembered with a The new leader of ently, or so says Cowen, Ireland is not UFO Society of Ireland, a 32-county sky life-size statue there. The sculptor of the the SDLP, Marga- on a list of target countries. watchdog, claims that it’s all a matter McCourt bust is Seamus Connolly of ret Ritchie, has Ireland has been consistent in em- of energy levels derived from megalithic West Clare. Connolly also created a life- openly suggested phasizing to the US government and sites around Derry. size statue of John B. Keane, the poet to the republicans Congress that there is substantial In the past two months, the Derry of the people, which salutes visitors in Bill O’Donnell that it might be cross-investment between Irish-owned Journal newspaper has been flooded Keane’s native Listowel in Kerry. time for elected companies in the US. There are a re- with tales of strange phenomena across When in Dublin this summer be sure Sinn Fein representatives in the House ported 227 Irish companies operating in the northwest and Ms. Meyler says that to avail of one of the capital city’s more of Commons to start actively represent- the United States employing more than places like the ancient burial fort at interesting bus tours. This one, which ing their constituents instead of playing 80,000 employees in 2,600 locations here. Grianan or other recently discovered opened in early April, will run all sum- hard to get. For the immediate future, it seems, the Derry sites may hold the answer as the mer; it shuttles back and forth between In recent years, the Sinn Fein political status quo rules. main attraction reaching out to celestial a Croke Park stadium tour (site of party has spent roughly a million euros Did You Know … that there are 65 objects in the skies. Who knows? UFO the All-Ireland finals) and then on to annually renting living quarters and islands off the Irish coastline that have capital Roswell, New Mexico, may have Glasnevin Museum, where all the late related expenses in London. But they been inhabited for the past 50 years? to share its laurels with the city on the greats reside. The tours to and from do not sit, their voices are not heard in Of those there are 35 islands that have Foyle. these venerable landmarks leave daily parliamentary debate, and they offer fairly sizable populations and they are Bad Times, Bad Law – When times from Dublin City Centre on Tuesdays little or no help to the John Hume’s mainly off the coasts of Galway, Mayo, are tough, jobs are scarce, and problems through Saturdays. A rare opportunity old party holding up the Irish national- Cork, Kerry, and Donegal. The three big- surface with a different look and some- to combine tour visits in a single jaunt ist cause in London. Why the expensive gest populations are on Achill with 2,620 times scant credentials, the outcome is to two truly memorable venues. London digs? people, Gorumna, 1,015, and Aran, 543. often bad law. And that is exactly what Belfast this summer will feature for Now it seems that uncomfortable facts Brian McGrory Exercises His we are seeing in Arizona with the new the first time a mode of transportation are surfacing suggesting that in party Chops – No more Mister Nice Guy for law intended to crack down hard on the familiar to most Bostonians —Duck leader Adams’s case the good people the Boston Globe’s recently re-installed immigrant-crowded southwestern state. Tours. People have been talking about of West Belfast, Adams’s constituency, metro columnist, Brian McGrory. In an The main problem with the new law getting the amphibious ducks that can have likely been disadvantaged by his April 16 column McGrory took Boston that was signed by a governor facing operate on land and water into Belfast absence from the parliamentary political College to the woodshed for a number a tight reelection bid is that it places and other Irish cities, especially in areas wars. In March the Northern Ireland of things, from its humble beginnings to every Hispanic in Arizona, documented where adjacent waterways can take full Statistics & Research Agency (NISRI), boosterism, but chiefly for not ponying or otherwise, in a special, quasi-criminal advantage of the Duck’s unique capa- a Unionist-bred government agency up some LIEU dollars (it’s like taxes for profile category and makes a hash of bilities. And Belfast will lead the way. but usually fact-driven, cited studies non-profits) for Tom Menino’s cash- their civil rights. A stiff price to pay for Belfast is a historic and colorful city the institute had done showing that strapped Boston. “walking while Brown” as HBO’s Bill and its urban waterways, including the in a listing of 100 of the most deprived I like and admire BC and believe — Maher describes the new state law. River Lagan, provide a fresh approach to communities in the North, the first LIEU payments aside for now — that That’s the human rights aspect of view the North’s sometimes underrated four were areas represented (or not) by two of its many community-enriching the new legislation, but there are also capital city. Adams in parliament. The gap between activities are among the very best on practical elements that strongly mitigate News Media Role – Quote from the the better-off, better-served communities offer from Beantown’s university elite. against this discriminatory measure. highly respected international religious and the people represented by Adams in We can all be proud that unlike many The Inspector General of Homeland periodical, “The Tablet,” on the Media West Belfast (Whiterock 2, Whiterock 3, athletically successful schools, BC has Security is highly critical of the law, and the Catholic Church: “Two other Falls 2 and Falls 3), along with number 6 a performance record of graduating (not painting it as “a portrait of a motley posse things need to be acknowledged. The Shankill, was enormous the study stated. using and discarding degree-less) its of deputies who don’t know Spanish,” first is that while ecclesiastical and even It’s all good and fair enough that Ad- athletes of all shades and races. Sadly, and, “who don’t care about the dangers civil authorities refused at first to listen ams and his parliamentary colleagues not so common a practice for most big of racial profiling.” [as quoted in the to what the victims of sexual abuse had try to build their party politically and school sports programs, but continuing NY Times]. A leading police association to say, the only people to give them a promote the cause of Irish unity, but at BC long after Doug’s miraculous pass and Boston’s own Bill Bratton have hearing were in the media. If the voice surely Sinn Fein can continue those to Gerard Phalen. argued strenuously that the Arizona of the victims seems unduly amplified campaigns while joining the floor debates Secondly, the widely acclaimed Boston law “undermines public safety.” Some now — and it is by no means easy to say in Commons and the essential internal, College Irish Studies program reflects Irish may think of the new Arizona law how much volume is too much -- this is back-office politicking to try to upgrade the fact that the maroon and gold have as from an alien world far beyond their some compensation for the silence that the lot of their working class constitu- not forgotten where their students came realm, but next it could be accents, or reigned before. The second point is that ents. Time for change, it says here. from or what the school’s multi-mission unusual attire, or just a telltale brogue. the Nolan inquiry would never have Ireland’s Two Economic Big Hit- agenda should be with regard to the In any event, we are all one and that’s happened without investigative journal- ters – The top two exports of the island community. BC is widely recognized as the simple truth. ism, initially on the part of the BBC. It of Ireland —and among the world’s most a national leader in Irish related stud- Bertie The Needy – Former Tao- opposed the grave mistakes made by popular – are Baileys from the Repub- ies and boasts one of the richest array iseach, and for a brief end game still a Cardinal Murphy-O’Connor ... which lic and Bushmills in the North. Taken of courses and instructors ranging from paid, sitting TD in the Irish parliament, he quickly admitted with deep regret. He together the two premier Irish-branded Irish music to history, art and culture, Bertie Ahern has once again stupefied did not blame the press, or claim a media products are cash cows, producing lush and a Burns Library that has quietly both his detractors and supporters. His conspiracy, and he eventually emerged revenue streams for the island. And amassed under Bob O’Neill one of the accomplishment: He has become the first with his reputation restored.” while many Irish exports have had their world’s finest Irish collections of rare person in modern Irish history who has RANDOM JOTTINGS wings clipped during the present global books and manuscripts to backstop its sought and been granted an “artists tax Guinness is test marketing in 400 recession, both Baileys and Bushmills innovative programs connecting the best exemption” for a ghost-written autobi- Northern Irish bars a new brew called are doing famously, thank you. of Ireland and Boston. ography. Seriously. Guinness Black Lager. Early returns Another popular icon of branded Ire- I think Brian was simply having a As many know, Ireland encourages suggest it tastes great but cost is a bit land known and enjoyed everywhere bad traffic day and that, like most true- the creative accomplishments of writers, dear at US $4.60 a bottle. … Greece is in from its birthplace at Shannon Airport believing Irish Catholics, he loves the artists, composers, playwrights, et al, by terrible shape financially but Ireland’s to Singapore, San Francisco, and Boston, school on the Heights and is simply try- forgiving certain taxes (up to roughly debt dwarfs its Euro neighbor, yet Ire- is Joe Sheridan’s creation, the ubiqui- ing to balance his personal books. Yes, $300,000) for income derived from such land, because of strong remedial mea- tous Irish Coffee. Sheridan, who began objective reporting! Go on, Brian, tell artistic work. It not only rewards strug- sures, will not have to go to the European his career in the hospitality business in ‘em that you didn’t mean it. gling Irish artists but also has, over the Union and the IMF to bail out. … Mass. Foynes, Co. Limerick, before settling Hung Elections And Shining mo- years, attracted many top flight creative Treasurer Tim Cahill (ambition is his into Shannon, is credited with first ments – The pundits in Britain are people to live or settle in Ireland. middle name) is finding some rugged go- concocting the famed cocktail in 1942 predicting that the May 6 British election That unusual and richly undeserved ing as he was 0 for 2 in saying that Mass. to warm up a rain-chilled customer at could well be a hung event with neither of gift that Bertie asked for and got from Health plan “was nearly bankrupting” the airport bar. the two main traditional parties, Labour a pliant state arts assembly group, the state (untrue) and his description But all is not serene with Shannon’s or Conservatives, headed respectively however, is, unsurprisingly not the only of the two party system as “broken.” famed drink. The Clare County Council by Prime Minister Gordon Brown self-enrichment program that Bold Ber- (Equally untrue). … Kathryn Bigelow has tabled a motion criticizing the Shan- and David Cameron, winning a ma- tie has enrolled in. Former taoiseachs, won an Oscar for directing the hit movie, non management for its sloppy Irish jority. The flies in the ointment are a much beloved by their former Leinster “The Hurt Locker,” and a decade or more Coffees and requesting that staff become relatively fresh face, Nick Clegg, and House allies, are each provided with a ago Galway Druid Theatre’s Garry better trained in mixing the cocktail. The his “Big Mo” Liberal Democrats. Going lifetime chauffeur-driven car. Bertie’s Hynes won a Tony Award for directing Shannon management confirmed that into the final ten days after two widely Mercedes S350 and driver cost the strug- “Beauty Queen of Leenane.” Both were it had taken note of the Clare Council’s watched debates, the three men and gling Irish exchequer $235,000 last year. the first women ever to win those presti- complaints and the matter “had been their parties are within a few polling His was the biggest bill of all the former gious directing honors. … Howie Carr addressed.” The ultimate test, of course, percentage points of each other. The Irish leaders but it is understandable was suspended from his radio show for will be the thirsty tourist sipping his hot prospect of a hung election, of course, because Bertie, God love him, needed biting the hand that feeds him, namely Gaelic brew while waiting for his Aer rouses the fantasy-filled daydreams the car and driver for travel to promote bad mouthing his own WRKO. Howie Lingus flight home to depart. of the Members of Parliament from his autobiography. And who amongst us the Destructive, in an April 7 broadcast, Cowen Confident On Obama OK Northern Ireland, eighteen in number would deny him? said, “No one of course expects Barack To Ireland – Taoiseach Brian Cowen, out of a total House membership of 650. Summertime Tourist Tips – After Obama to really know anything. We who is currently up to his neck in his Aside from the slim possibility that Reg what all agree was a fierce winter in understand, all too well, exactly how he country’s recession era debt and slump- Empey and his Ulster Unionists might Ireland, a cousin in Kerry tells me that got through Columbia and Harvard Law. ing poll figures for his Fianna Fail party, grab a seat, most MPs from the North the temps were balmy and early sum- He had certain ... intangibles, shall we had one piece of good news to report to are up for grabs ideologically and not mer looks to be making up for the grim say.” (Ugh!) … Finally, a tip of the hat to the shaken faithful. President Obama strictly copper-fastened to any of the months just finished there. Here are the Eire Society of Boston’s Gold Medal is not going to punish Ireland or push for three British parties in contention. several things to look for while on the winner, our own Ed Forry. A dream of tax reforms there on US multinationals, So on May 6 or a few days after that, island of Ireland, which even the cau- a publisher for a writer, I can attest, and Cowen said recently. we could see one or more of the main tiously slow-footed, mellowing Orange a friend to cherish. Slante’ Page 8 May 2010 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com Notes from the Irish Immigration Center An agency accredited by US Department of Justice 100 Franklin Street, Boston, MA 02110 Telephone (617) 542-7654 Fax (617) 542-7655 Website:iicenter.org Email: [email protected]

Wider Horizons Par- families throughout the program aims to improve participants’ employability ticipants build skills city and working at vari- while fostering mutual understanding and reconcili- and relationships – ous internships in local ation between Protestant and Catholic communities. Members of The Wider non-profit youth and com- The young adults have settled into life with their host Horizon’s Clanrye group munity organizations. families, are working in their internships, and have from Co. Armagh, Down, The Wider Horizons attended a Baptist Mass. Along with their youth and and Louth are learning program started in 2004 community internship, the participants enjoy a variety new skills and enjoying and targets disadvan- of activities throughout the city, including watching their Boston experience. taged and unemployed the Boston Marathon. The group of Irish young youth from the border IIC & CARE expand Health and Education adults is spending six counties of Ireland and Services – The IIC continues to expand its Health weeks living with host Northern Ireland. The and Education Services. In partnership with CARE, we host Home Health Aide and CPR Classes. IIC has added Basic Computer Skills to its roster of skill build- Immigration Q & A ing programs and is considering other exciting classes to help participants take the next step in their careers. Future possibilities include classes or workshops in Validity Check resume/CV preparation, education information events for immigrants who want to attend colleges in Massa- IIC clients among New Americans at Citizenship chusetts, and social events to network with fellow child Day in Fenway Park in September on Driver’s License caretakers, nannies and home health aides. Please contact Ciara today at 617-542-7654, Ext. 14, with Boston’s Haitian friendly, dedicated, and Q. Are people with drivers’ licenses from countries if you are would like to learn more about our health organizations and host- experienced immigration outside the United States allowed to drive in Mas- and education services. ing legal clinics to work attorneys will answer sachusetts? Congratulations to participants in our two with Haitian clients, the your questions about A. A foreign visitor at least 18 years old with a valid March Home Health Aide Classes who success- IIC’s free legal clinics immigration and citizen- driver’s license from one of the 130 countries listed fully graduated on April 15 – And many Thanks to now assist more Haitian ship issues. We can also in Appendix A of the Massachusetts Drivers Manual the Irish Cultural Centre, which graciously hosted our clients on a range of legal schedule an appointment (available at mass.gov/rmv) may drive for one year from event, to Deirdre Ni Fhalluin from the Irish Consulate issues. Not only is the to help you with legal the date of arrival. Thus, law enforcement authorities in Boston who presented our 35 graduates with their IIC’s legal staff helping paperwork for yourself or would ask to see both the license and the driver’s I-94 certificates, and, of course, to all our participants who file Temporary Protected a family member. Clinics card from US Customs and Border Protection showing brought great food, fun and laughter. We had a won- Status for refugees, but are held both in the com- the date of arrival. derful evening and a special thanks was made to our the department is also munity and at our office. Those who are staying longer than one year in the wonderful CARE HHA Teachers, who gave their time working with people who Irish Immigration Center US (legal permanent residents, students, employment each week voluntarily both in Boston and in Canton! have long-standing im- has been providing free visa holders et al.) would need to convert their foreign Thank You all! migration cases. The IIC immigration legal advice license to a Massachusetts license. This entails passing Interested in Home Health Aide? Join our continues its partnership for 20 years. a written test on the rules of the road, a driving test, Facebook page for the latest news! – The IIC’s with the Nazarene Church Free Legal Clinic and a vision test. The requirements for people from “Home Health Aide Training Course” page is the best in Boston; last week we Schedule – Mon., May Canada and Mexico are somewhat less onerous and way to stay up to date on programs and events hosted assisted with a legal clinic 10, 6:30 p.m: Green Briar generally would not involve a driving test. The Mas- by the IIC and CARE, learn about jobs, and reconnect at the church. This month, Pub, 304 Washington St., sachusetts licensing authority, the Registry of Motor with fellow Home Health Aide classmates. You do not the IIC will work with the Brighton; Tues., May 25, Vehicles, also can be expected to check an applicant’s need to be an alum or current member of the course; Association of Haitian 6 p.m.: The South Boston immigration status. we welcome anyone interested in the Home Health Women in Boston (AFAB) Laboure Center, 275 West The Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles Aide profession. Check us out and don’t forget to say to meet with their cliental Broadway, South Boston. stresses that it recognizes only licenses issued by the hi on our Wall!! base. Clinics also take place at relevant government agency in the holder’s home coun- IIC and CARE partner for a successful CPR If you are interested in our office the first and try. There are scams on the Internet selling documents training class – We had a great turnout at our two volunteering with IIC’s third Tuesdays of each called “International Driving Permits” or “International CPR training classes in April, thanks to our partnership work assisting Haitians month from 4 p.m. to 6 Licenses,” often purporting to be issued by the United with CARE, our wonderful volunteers, and our eager to with TPS, call Elizabeth p.m. Please call 617-542- Nations or some other authority. These are worthless learn clients. We would like to thank Alice Mulcahy, at 617-542-7654, Ext. 46. 7654 in advance to confirm pieces of paper, and anyone caught driving with one of who gives her time to instruct the CPR training classes. Visit our website at iicen- that clinic is being held. them instead of a valid foreign license could be charged Alice has more than forty years of experience as a ter.org/haitiresponse.htm Our offices are located with operating a vehicle without a license. nurse and has been running CPR training classes for for more information and at 100 Franklin Street, The website for the Massachusetts Registry of Motor the past twenty years. Thank you, Alice, for sharing to donate to the IIC’s ef- Boston (Enter from the Vehicles, mass.gov/rmv, contains further information your knowledge with us! forts assisting Haitians side entrances at 60 Arch on this topic, as well as all the procedural requirements IIC continues to work with Haitian immigrants living in the Boston area. Street or 201 Devonshire for obtaining drivers’ licenses, registering vehicles, etc. – Four months after the earthquake in Haiti, the Irish Immigration and citi- Street.) The in-house clin- Keep in mind that the regulation of motor vehicles Immigration Center continues to work hard to help the zenship update – The ics for May are on May 4 and drivers is primarily a state law issue in the US, Haitian community with practical support and counsel- IIC is proud to offer weekly and May 18. not a federal one, so the law and regulations covering ing, and legal assistance. By fostering partnerships free legal clinics. Our driver’s licenses in other US states and territories may differ in various respects from that in Massachusetts. Those interested in jurisdictions other than Massachu- setts would need to consult the website of the relevant Matters Of Substance licensing authority. For a free, confidential consultation on any aspect of immigration law, visit one of IIC’s legal clinics as Halt My Relapse – II promoted in the Boston Irish Reporter each month. By Danielle Owen I am frequently asked nations Special to the BIR how a person can know if Disorientation – confu- Last month, we explored he or she needs medical sion about where you are, key triggers that can lead intervention. If you are what the date is, difficulty to relapse, including Hun- experiencing these symp- with addition ger, Anger, Loneliness, toms along with rapid If you are experienc- and Tiredness (HALT). pulse or insomnia, you ing any of these last Physical withdrawal can may need medical help. 4 symptoms, I would also be an obstacle to Severity of withdrawal strongly encourage you to remaining alcohol free. symptoms varies greatly go to your doctor, nearest When people use alcohol depending on the his- Emergency Room, or call daily or in high amounts, tory of alcohol use. If not 911. Alcohol withdrawal their bodies can become treated, relapse is more is very serious and if Danielle Owen physically dependent on likely and you could be in untreated, can be fatal. Prevention Group in it. When they suddenly danger of seizures. (This symptom-list should Quincy, please contact stop using it, they experi- Other serious symp- not be used in any way as Danielle, in confidence, ence physical withdrawal toms include: a substitute for medical at the Irish Immigration symptoms. Tactile Disturbances advice or care.) Center at 617-542-7654, These can include: – unusual sensations If you are wondering Ext. 14 or send an e-mail Nausea/Vomiting (pins and needles, itching, about access to health to [email protected]. Hand Tremors – par- skin “crawling”, burning, care or health insurance For more detail about ticularly when arms are numbness) on or under coverage, please call our withdrawal symptoms extended to the side, and skin health screening partner, see: hubpages.com/hub/ fingers spread out straight Auditory Disturbanc- Health Care For All. Their Alcohol-Withdrawal-How- Abnormal Sweating – es – greater than nor- confidential Help Line is Serious-Are-Your-Symp- heavy and profuse mal awareness of sound, 800-272-4232. toms or cmaj.ca/cgi/re- Anxiety – feelings of sounds that are harsh, If you need help and print/160/5/675.pdf. panic frightening, or not present support now, or if you Danielle Owen, LADC Subscribe Today! Visual Disturbances – have recently relapsed to the Boston Irish Reporter Headaches – a tight II, is the Substance Abuse band around the head overly bright light that and would like to know Coordinator at the Irish Call 617-436-1222 Agitation or Panic hurts your eyes, halluci- more about our Relapse Immigration Center. Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com May 2010 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 9 BRETT’S BOSTON By Harry Brett Exclusive photos of Boston Irish people & events

ome 100 persons turned out on SSunday, Apr. 25 the Ladies Aux- iliary of the Irish Cultural Centre ’s Afternoon Tea & Fashion Show at the ICCNE’s campus in Canton, MA. The event was a sell-out as guests enjoyed viewing the tweeds and wools of Ireland 1. 2. presented by Claddagh Connection of Bristol, RI. The show featured Irish Clothes, Irish Jewelry by Tara’s Diary and Fado Fine Irish Jewelry and also children’s clothing.

1.) Model Barbara Boyd, Waltham; 2.) Denise Miller, Claddagh Connection, Bristol, RI; 3.) Twins Joyce and Judy Collins, Walpole; 4.) Ellen Fay, Dorchester and Maureen Lyons, Dorchester; 5.) Michael and Kiera Norvish, Bridgewater; 6.) Peggy Cormican, Dorchester and Evelyn Flaherty, Arlington; 7.) Loraine Marie, Norwood; 8.) Gobnait Conneelly, W. Roxbury and Mary Duffy, Halls of Tara Flo- rist, W. Roxbury; 9.) Marguireta Mezzetti, Watertown; 10.) Mary McConnell, Jamaica Plain and Ellen Goodwin, Boston; 11.) Rita 3. Fleming, Merrimac, MA; 12.) Michael Wals, 4. Canton; Erin Kennedy, Mansfield; and Joc- elyn Savin, Needham; 13.) Joyce Cannon, Braintree; Margo Doyle, Weymouth; Phyllis Bedder, Reading.

9. 10. 11.

12. 13. Page 10 May 2010 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com

Team Forry and Friends at the Eire Society’s Gold Medal Award dinner: Back row, from left: Kieran Jordan, Vincent Crotty, Jenn Scott Forry, Ryan Forry, Erin Forry, Kathy Tanner, Mike Tanner, Ed Forry, Mria Forry Dangerfield, Kathleen McManus, Lisa Romanovitch McManus, Padraic Forry, Della Costello, Mike Sheehan, Bill Forry, Jim Casey. Front, Anna Forry, John Forry, Renee Forry-Cheverie, Marie Forry, Julie McManus, Sr. Brenda Forry CSJ, Peggy Tanner Sheehan, Maureen Forry, Linda Dorcena Forry. Photo by Harry Brett. Meditation on an Irish Family Story Following is the speech BIR Publisher Ed Forry gave “The Great Compromisor.” Wouldn’t it be wonderful after he received the Eire Society’s Gold Medal Award if political discourse today could boast of someone of last Friday night at the society’s annual banquet in the John McCormack’s timbre. rooftop room of the Parker House. Of course I grew up with Richard Cardinal Cush- ing. Back in the day at St. Gregory’s, the school began Thank you Bill. I think it was Army General Barry with the Cardinal on radio leading the rosary. He was McCaffrey who said, “When I get a very generous a constant in Boston Irish life for many decades, and introduction like that, I explain that I’m emotionally when Peter Stevens compiled a series about the great moved, but on the other hand I’m Irish and we Irish Boston Irish figures, we selected Cushing as the Boston are very emotionally moved. My father was Irish and Irish Person of the 20th century. he would cry during beer commercials.” The Irish Reporter mission is this: We tell the stories My friend Peter Meade, himself a Gold Medal honoree, of Boston’s Irish. It has been a journey of discovery as told me that his own father was in the audience once, we reported about so many people who share our lives when he delivered what he thought was his finest, and our have ancestry. It is said the 20th was the Irish McGilligan’s Ball were our anthems. John Ford’s The most compelling speech. Afterwards he asked his dad Century in Boston, and looking back, I am in awe of so Quiet Man gave us the quaint, bucolic images of the what he thought and his dad said, “Well it was a very many marvelous people, all the compelling stories we land of our ancestors, and Trooper Thornton’s quest to complex, speech, my son, and I thought you missed have been privileged to tell. Tom Durant. Tom Flatley, win the hand of the red-haired Maureen O’Hara was several good opportunities to stop talking.” the Corcoran brothers, John, Leo and Joe. The passion- our cherished fantasy. So tonight, I will take Mr. Meade’s advice and keep ate Jack Driscoll. Dr. Mary Jane English from Regis We even had a vague sense that the English govern- it short. There’s an old Jesuit maxim that there’s no College by way of Brighton and Mt St Joseph Academy. ment was not our biggest fan, but the details were a such thing as a bad short speech. The great Jess Cain of WHDH, an Irish Catholic kid little fuzzy. In a word, we were assimilated. I want to express my deep gratitude to the Eire Society from Philly who made Boston his home for 50 years. I knew little about my grandparents and their lives for this honor. When I look at some very accomplished Phil Haughey, Sr. Lena Deevey, Dr Larry Ronan. We over there. I knew simply that they all were born in Irish men and women who are previous recipients – last had the opportunity to tell their stories, everyone of the 1860s, they came to Boston in the 1890s, and they year’s honorees John Cullinane and Michael Donlan, them an inspiration for now and for the ages. met and married, worked and sacrificed, made their before them Seamus Heaney, Ambassadors Bill Shan- On Monday night, I met for the first time Tom homes comfortable and Catholic, and brought 15 or so non and Brian Donnelly, my great friend and mentor Shields, whose MRI business has improved so many children into this world – two of whom would repeat Bill Bulger, Speakers Tip O’Neill and John McCormack, lives. He told me that profile we did of him – written the cycle, meet and marry, and eventually, thank the President John F. Kennedy – they are all enumerated by my contributing editor Greg OBrien – was the best Lord, bring me into the world. in tonight’s program. And tonight, the name Forry is thing ever published about him. I thanked him, but I was the last grandchild of these four Irish émigrés, added to the list. I told him the thanks belongs to Tommy himself and but I know so little about their lives in Ireland. Believe me, it is not false modesty to tell you that I his lifetime of good works. All that we did was sit with The playwright Sean O’Casey once wrote, “Every cannot understand how this kid from Vera Street, on him and tell his story, one more story of Boston’s Irish. action of our lives touches on some chord that will Codman Hill, St. Gregory’s parish in Dorchester can It took me some time in my younger years to decide vibrate in eternity.” For me the tug to find out what I assert any claim to stand among them. What I do, in to go into the business of publishing newspapers. My could became more powerful with each visit. my life and for my living, is publish some newspapers, late wife Mary Casey Forry – herself the daughter of And so it was, last August, on a 12-day visit with all of them called The Reporter, all about where I live Irish immigrants from Leitrim and Mayo – was the my dear friend Della Costello. I found my way to the and the people I know – two weeklies in Dorchester, president of our little family business, and in every way province of Connaught, the county of Sligo, the town in Mattapan, and ethnic papers about Haitian people a full partner. We were both in our late 40s when we of Castlebaldwin. There, from a window of my room and Irish people. made our first trip over to Ireland. And it was then I at the glorious Cromleach Lodge, looking across Lock With my late wife Mary Casey Forry we began to discovered the great Irish American pastime – looking Arrow and a range of mountains, I realized that over publish The Boston Irish Reporter 20 years ago. Our for family roots. those hills somewhere close was where my grandfather mission was then and continues to be telling the stories Mary’s were easy. She had family still in Leitrim and Forry had once lived. of Boston’s Irish. in Sligo town. When she first met her Uncle Michael, It was an area called Kesh, tucked among the hills One very special moment tonight is that my cousin she said she felt like she was seeing her long dead dad off the main roads. I knew I had some time to wander, Brenda Forry has agreed to sit here with me and give once again! I have since been back six or seven times, and I felt an urgency to explore. This time, I said, let the benediction. Sister Brenda is a member of the lead- and have yet to meet any of my own Irish cousins, But me see if I can find the Forry ancestral home, the place ership team of the CSJ – the St. Joseph nuns, and her each time the feeling grows that I am returning home where, 120 years ago, I came from. As is often the work in parish ministry, full of faith and compassion … to Ireland case when we Yanks go looking for our roots, I found and love, has been awesome. She recently celebrated 50 I want to conclude by briefly telling the story of my an Irishman – Pat Ward – who knew a lot about the years in her vocation. Brenda, when people remember family, the Forry family of Dorchester. There were five history of the land and its people, and was willing that the name Forry is on this 2010 Gold Medal award, of us – John, Mary, Eleanor, Joe and myself. John ap- to help. He’s the owner of the only local in Kesh, the I hope they will think of you as well as me. peared in early 1931, a year and some months after the historic Fox’s Pub on the Boyle road. He was certain Let me also pause and remember the inspirational Wall Street collapse of ‘29. I was born in 1944, about my granddad, or some of the Forry family, my cousins, life of the late Msgr. Tom McDonnell. Those of you who a year before WWII ended. would have frequented Fox’s. were here at last year’s dinner will remember that Fa- Our father, John Forry Sr., was born in Lynn in 1901, He called on a lady down the road who now lived in a ther Tom prayed the invocation. It was perhaps his last the oldest son of Patrick J. Forry from Sligo and Han- house she bought 60 years ago from a man named Jim public appearance, as he passed several weeks later. nah Forry from Waterford. When he was still a boy, the Forry. And I realized he was the uncle of my cousin I am so very grateful to the board of trustees for family moved to South Boston. Our mother, Eleanor J Jackie Forry from Lynn! believing that I belong with these others. I recall brief Toomey, was the last child of Tim and Nora Toomey. At the house, I met the new owner, Mrs Cawley, who moments in my life when my path crossed with some Both born in County Cork, they lived in Southie, at 510 is just 86 now. I told her my name. “Now which Forry previous honorees: Broadway. All of my grandparents emigrated to Boston are you?” she asked me. “The home place of the Forrys,” I was a BC High junior when Jack Kennedy visited from Ireland sometime around 1890. I only knew one she told Pat Ward “was, you know, where Angela Healy the campus, and I remember my exhilaration when of them – Grandma Forry, Hannah; the other three lives. The old house is just down the lane from there. we learned he had won Chicago, and would be the had passed away before I was born. That’s where they lived before they came down here.” new president. Many of you can probably recall that My Dad John Forry worked 49 years on the Boston Five minutes later, Pat Ward had taken me down feeling – we told ourselves, one of our own, an Irish Elevated, later the MTA and now called the MBTA the road. I stepped out to see this wondrous vista: Catholic, was now the President of the United States. and the T. When he retired they gave him a time at The hills, the fields, the trees. A small, almost hidden I was 16 years old, and oh, how bright those horizons the Walsh Post, a pile of handshakes, and a watch. valley surrounded by a gently rolling countryside. As seemed to me then. When he died in 1978, my mother was able to sell I gazed I realized I was seeing with my eyes the same I had the great honor of meeting Nobel laureate John the two-family on Vera Street and move into a senior hills, the same countryside that my grandfather saw Hume, in my view the hero of the Northern Ireland apartment building. through his eyes 120 years ago. peace process. My pal Jim O’Brien brought him to my The boys in my family – John, Joe and myself – There was no house still standing, but I walked the office one day in the early 1990s and he spoke of his were expected to get an education, preferably at good field, across the meadow, and through the mud in the commitment to peace and non-violence. He had a home Catholic schools. The girls, not so much. We boys all certain knowledge that I was walking in the footsteps in Donegal, and he told me there were two portraits were sent to BC High, and we all took degrees at Bos- of my father’s father, PJ Forry. I stayed there for just a on his walls: JFK and Martin Luther King. ton College. Mary and Ellie went to work when they few moments, but those few precious moments seemed There was a Forry on the staff of Speaker John finished high school. like … forever. McCormack – our aunt Kate, Kathleen Forry, was In my house, we knew we were Irish, but our Irish And I knew then, what so many of us know and his secretary here in the Boston office in Room 1410 roots were defined less by the awful struggles of that understand in our bones, in our soul at such times: On of what we now call the McCormack Building at Post island and more by the Americanized Irish tales of that day in August, in that field in Kesh, County Sligo, Office Square. What a hero he was to me, a true po- Broadway, Tin Pan Alley and Hollywood. Bing Crosby, Ed Forry, the kid from Vera Street, on Codman Hill, litical hero. He had a photo of himself from a party Carmel Quinn and Dennis Day embodied our Irish- St. Gregory’s parish in Dorchester, had come home. convention he had chaired, where he was known as ness. If you’re Irish, Come in from the Parlor and Mick PJ, this is for you. Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com May 2010 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 11 Eire Society Hails Its Gold Medal Recipient

From left, John Foley, U.S. Rep Nikki Tsongas, Jim O’Brien, BIR columnist Joe Leary, and Josephine Shield.

Honoree Ed Forry and his cousin, Sister Brenda Forry, CSJ.

Former Massachusetts Attorney General and Speaker of the Mass. House Reporter staff members Gintautas Kieran Jordan and her husband Vin- Bob Quinn and his son Michael. Dumcius and Tu-Quyen Bui. cent Crotty. Photos by Harry Brett. The First Annual Benefit Dance for Haiti Hundreds gathered on Sun., May 2, at the Marriott Boston Quincy for the First Annual Benefit Dance for Haiti. The event featured live entertainment by the likes of Erin’s Melody, the Andy Healy Band, Noel Henry’s Irish Showband, Fintan Stanley, John Connors & the Irish Express, Larry Reynolds and Com- haltas Ceoltóirí Eireann’. All proceeds will benefit Friends of the Orphans, which supports the Nuestros Pequeños Hermanos (NPH, Spanish for “Our Little Brothers and Sisters”) network of homes in Latin America and the Caribbean. The goal is to transform the lives of orphaned, abandoned, and disadvantaged children by creating families for life through values of unconditional love, shared responsibility and education. This enables children to transcend poverty and grow into caring and productive members of their communities. Since its founding in 1954, NPH has assisted nearly 16,000 children and currently cares for more than 3,300 in Bolivia, the Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Guatemala, Haiti, Hon- duras, Mexico, Nicara- gua and Peru. An additional 30,000 children and adults are assisted through outreach programs each year. Event sponsors were The Irish Emigrant, 950AM WROL, Cou- rier, The Boston Irish Reporter, Marriott, and the Boston Herald. Page 12 May 2010 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com

On Saturday, May 22nd, we will celebrate • Annual $30,000 Drawing takes place the two historic milestones here at the Irish 2nd Saturday in December. Over 1,600 Cultural Centre, the 20th year of the tickets are sold at $100 each and one lucky conception of the Centre and the 10th year of winner is guaranteed a hefty price right the physical building and grounds. Two great before the holidays. reasons to celebrate the accomplishments of the hundreds of volunteers who came • And for this year only, our 20th Anniversary together to make this Centre a reality and Gala which will take place on Saturday, May those who are continuing to work tirelessly, 22nd. A historic celebration that will include day after day to keep the Centre afloat and to music, dancing, dinner and silent auction preserve the vision and mission of the Centre items. The event’s Master of Ceremonies will for generations to come. be Dan Rea, host of WBZ Radio’s Nightside The Centre is a place that the Irish and Irish and the Guest Speaker will be Senator Scott Americans alike should be proud of. Nestled Brown. We are anticipating a sold out crowd in Canton, the Centre is a hidden gem sitting and a memorable evening for all. on 46 beautiful pristine acres of land, fields, walking trails, a great activity building and • The ICC Drama Group presents a new theater We would also be remiss if we didn’t mention pub. It is the home of the Annual Irish Festival and production every May and November. ICC Membership and how important our members are the main pitch plays host to Gaelic Athletic Association to the sustainment and the viability of the Irish Cultural Games through the spring and summer. That is what • Our ongoing Concert Series features artists both Centre. Without our members there would be no Irish most people know of the Centre. local and well known. Cultural Centre. It was our members who saw the What isn’t highly publicized is that the Centre under vision of the Centre along with the founding volunteers; the leadership of four staff members and numerous • The Shamrock Club, ICCNE’s newest program for it was the members who contributed in the beginning volunteers (including a volunteer Board of Directors), Senior Citizens. A bi-monthly luncheon that will include and the members who are still contributing to this day are putting together a host of monthly Irish programs music, dancing, socializing and education. that have become the lifeblood of the organization. and events that are open to ICC Members and the We here at the Irish Cultural Centre are so happy public at large. In fact, over the last two years the • And many additional programs including our Monthly to be celebrating the accomplishment of twenty years amount of programming at the Centre has nearly Mass and Irish Breakfast, the Sit and Knit Club, Annual and want to thank everyone who has helped us along doubled. Fashion Show, the Rambling House, our Children’s the way. We will celebrate the past and look to the A listing of the Irish Cultural Centre ongoing programs Celtic Camp, New Year’s Eve Celebration, Author future, to another ten and twenty years down the include: Readings at the ICC Library and much more. road. There is a lot in store and a many more things to accomplish and we hope to have the support of • The ICC Academy of Music, Dance, and Language. We also have several fundraisers throughout the our members (present, past, and future), volunteers Weekly classes are offered in the Spring and Fall and year, which provides the Centre with the funding to and Irish Community at large. We hope you share in include instruction in Step Dancing, Set Dancing, Tin maintain the building and grounds. Some key events our vision to become the New England home for Irish Whistle and Bodhran. include: Culture, for it is you, your children, your children’s children and beyond that will carry forward the goal’s • Historical Irish Series. Quarterly presentations • Annual Golf Tournament, now in its 20th year, will of twenty years past. Thank you and we look forward including lecture, movie and dinner looking back at take place September 10, 2010. to seeing you on May 22nd. early Ireland from the Famine to the Easter Rising. Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com May 2010 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 13

1989 was a great year for the Irish in Boston, that was the year the Irish Cultural Centre was born. After many lengthy discussions and meetings, money to build an actual Centre became the big question. To raise funds, Eddie Barron came up with the idea of the Festival. The first Festival was held in 1990 at Stonehill College in Easton and was a great success. Then the search began for a location for the Centre. There were many places visited, many meetings held and lots of great ideas shared. Then six years later in January, 1996 the Irish Cultural Centre purchased 46 acres of land in Canton, which is the place we call home today. Many thanks to the hundreds of volunteers, men and women, families, young and old who helped make this dream a reality. - Sean Lyons

The 46 acres of land were purchased in 1995 with funds raised by interested members, generous donors and successful fundraising, including the very popular festivals held at Stonehill College. In 1996, the road to the Centre was laid and in the Spring of 1997, the land was cleared and developed according to the master plan for the building, playing fields, and two parking lots for up to 450 cars. Later that year, an additional three acres were purchased for future expansion. In August 1997, the construction began in earnest and the Irish of Boston came together like never before to embark on a massive volunteer effort and labor of love. The Activity Building, its garden walls and patios, and the surrounding trails were constructed virtually by volunteers and with crews donated by Irish contractors. Some materials were donated and the balance was purchased at cost from local suppliers. A beautiful 230-foot bridge, erected by all-volunteer labor, connects the parking lot to the main grounds of the Centre. It serves as the primary entry to the Centre's building and campus. In December 1998, the first unofficial function at the Irish Cultural Centre was a banquet for our victorious GAA Minor Footballers who won the North American GAA Minor Football Championship. Page 14 May 2010 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com Boston irish Boston Irish Arts, Entertainment, Reporter Travel & More The Scottish Fiddle Tradition Has a Champion in Hanneke Cassel Passion, Emotion Mark Her Music – and Her Life

By Sean Smith “I just like the fact that the Special to the Reporter band’s been together all this First, just to dispel any ru- time, they’ve grown to be techni- mors or urban folklore that may cally proficient, but they don’t be percolating: No, Hanneke forget about the soul of music.” Cassel has never played with Neither does Cassel. The U2, in concert or anywhere else. passion and emotion she brings “I wish!” laughs Cassel, a na- to her playing, along with her tive Oregonian who has been uniquely American interpreta- living in Boston for the past tion of Scottish fiddle tradition, several years – that is, when have helped make her one of she’s not bringing her special the most popular Celtic music brand of Scottish fiddle music to performers in the US today – almost all corners of the earth. and her recently released CD, But Cassel has included U2 “For Reasons Unseen,” will in her repertoire, notably an in- undoubtedly give her reputation strumental version of their song a further boost. “Mothers of the Disappeared” on “Hanneke Cassel is brilliantly her 2004 album “Some Melodi- talented young performer who ous Sonnet” (she reprised the deftly walks the line between arrangement – this time with trad and avant garde,” says Earl all lyrics – for her appearance Britt, who maintains the New with the fiddle ensemble Child- Celtic Revival blog and podcast. splay; you can hear it on their “She’s intelligent, gifted, and recent album, “Waiting for the worthy of mention in a class Dawn”), and makes no secret with the likes of Liz Carroll or Cassel’s travels to China have given her a new perspective on “the commonality” of folk mu- of her admiration for the Irish Eileen Ivers.” sic: “No matter what part of the world, folk music all seems to come from the same place, a rock band. For all her accomplishments place of sadness and humor, and people express it in ways that are far more similar than we “I love Bono,” says Cassel, who as a performer, Cassel has cul- might think.” tivated another important iden- regards him as “one of the best last month, in Kenya. “When I was 17, I went to the Then I met Liz Carroll at Mark performers,” along with Scottish tity: as a teacher and mentor to young fiddlers in New England So it’s a little surprising to Valley of the Moon fiddle camp O’Connor’s music camp, and she fiddler Alasdair Fraser, a major find that, initially, Cassel wasn’t in California,” recalls Cassel. made a big impression on me, as influence on Cassel. “He has a and elsewhere. And in recent years, Cassel has found another sure she liked Celtic music -- and “I saw Athena Tergis there, you can imagine. So, Irish music lot of charisma, and he brings once she did, thought that Irish, and I just got totally into Irish was really the biggest part of my sincerity to what he does. I like dimension for her music, and for her faith, in visits with disad- not Scottish, music would be her music; I was in awe of her. She life at that time. performers who believe in what stock in trade. taught me my first Irish tunes. they’re doing. vantaged children in China and, (Continued on page 17) Mary Callanan On Stage From Pink Flamingos To Red Hot Mama

By R. J. Donovan family theme song, swapping we call this is a comical look at Special to The BIR out Harrigan for Callanan, of white trash? The actress and singer Mary course. When her father died, MC: (Laughing) We’ll call it Callanan is currently appear- the family even sang it at the ‘trailer trash’ -- a little more ing in the campy and colorful church during his funeral. politically correct in this politi- off-Broadway hit, “The Great Anyone who has seen Mary cally incorrect show. American Trailer Park Musical” onstage knows that she has a BIR: Who do you play? at SpeakEasy Stage. When the sharp sense of humor and an MC: (Adopting a dripping curtain comes down at the end easy laugh. When we spoke, she Southern accent) Well, my name of the month, she’ll move on to was gearing up for the opening of is Linoleum, and my theatrical star in the one-woman show “Trailer Park,” had just finished arc, if you will, is my husband “Sophie Tucker: The Last of the a pre-production photo shoot has been in the Florida state Red Hot Mamas” at New Rep. for “Sophie Tucker,” and was prison system for eight years, As one of Boston’s most popular busy learning three songs for a on death row. But they have talents, her stage credits range benefit concert. Here’s an edited a funky (electric) chair, and from local productions of “Nun- version of our conversation. it doesn’t really work, so if sense” and “Menopause: The BIR: With all that you’ve got I can get everyone in (town) Musical” to international tours going on at the moment, you to keep their lights on, then of “Damn Yankees,” “BIG” and probably rank as the hardest they can’t fry my husband. “The Sound of Music” (starring working woman in show busi- BIR: So from rednecks to red Marie Osmond). Also known ness -- in Boston anyway. hot mamas, how did “Sophie as an exceptional cabaret artist MC: Well, thanks. That’s Tucker” come about for you? with a powerful show tune belt, what my husband calls me. MC: Kate Warner (New Rep’s she has performed everywhere BIR: So you’re in the middle Artistic Director) called, and I from Boston’s Club Cafe to New of “Trailer Park” and then “So- was stunned. I had pitched her York’s famed Russian Tea Room. phie Tucker” is next. These two something a week before, about She also devotes a great deal of very different shows are coming a different project. And she her time to singing at benefits. really close together for you. It called and said, ‘How would you In discussing her family his- has to be challenging. like to play Sophie Tucker this tory, a question came up as to MC: It’s the most I’ve chewed summer?’ And I thought, ‘Oh how Callanan acquired an N off in a long time. I’m so excited in a play about, blah blah blah,’ in the middle, versus an H or a . . . the shows are sublime to and I said, ‘Well sure.’ And she GH. It may have happened as ridiculous. It certainly keeps said, ‘Well, it’s just you.’ And I her ancestors passed through me on my toes. said ‘What?’ I have certainly Ellis Island. But one thing is BIR: The show at SpeakEasy done enough cabaret shows certain. Her father and his is set in the Armadillo Acres in my time, but I’ve never done six siblings spent their lives trailer park in Starke, Florida, a theatrical venture where it’s constantly having to spell their where the rednecks pass their Mary Callanan as “Sophie Tucker: The Last of the Red just me. I’m very excited. Ex- time in lawn chairs surrounded Hot Mamas,” opening June 24 at New Repertory Theatre. name for people, such that “Har- (Continued on page 15) rigan” became their personal by tacky pink flamingos. Would Photo: Rob Lorino & Christopher McKenzie Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com May 2010 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 15 From Pink Flamingos To Red Hot Mama (Continued from page 14) cited and scared. … I can’t wait. BIR: What’s the vision for the show? MC: Kate has decided, and I agree of course, that I’m not going to be old -- the Sophie that you can only see in (film) clips. We’re not going to do 70-year-old Sophie. And we’re not going to do 20-year-old Sophie. We’re go- A column of news and cluding at last November’s ing to do Sophie closer to where I am (laughing). Where updates of the Boston Celtic Music Monday she was really at the height of her vaudeville theatrical Celtic Music Fest (BC- concert – and have won stardom, before the movies and whatnot. MFest), which celebrates plaudits for the harmonic BIR: So do you see this show as an opportunity to the Boston area’s rich blend of voices and guitars spark memories, or do you think you’ll have to educate heritage of Irish, Scottish, they use to accompany contemporary audiences as to who she really was? Cape Breton music and their repertoire of songs MC: I’m hoping it’s more an ‘ed-u-ma-catable’ loving dance with a grassroots, from America, Ireland and tribute (laughing). musician-run winter mu- England as well as their BIR: I remember seeing her on the “Ed Sullivan sic festival and other own compositions. Show” in the 60s. She really stood alone as a sassy events during the year. Liz Simmons, left, and Hannah Sanders will be one •Catherine Joyce of three duos performing at the May 12 BCMFest actress, singer, and comedian, didn’t she? – Sean Smith & Tess Ruderman — Celtic Music Monday concert “Women In Trad.” MC: She was the step between Mae West and say, Traditional women These two are among the Totie Fields. She was a bigger wink than Mae West – Traditional music has emerging generation of highlight the role women their music, and their but she never said anything off color . . . The thing I find never been an exclu- acclaimed young musi- play in traditional music approach, even though that’s fascinating about her was she really was the first sively male domain in cians in the Boston area and its different styles,” it is well-steeped in the one, not to manipulate the press, but (to understand) Irish, Scottish, or Eng- who have been heavily says Simmons, who co- tradition, is infused with the power of keeping your name in the papers. She lish music. This month’s influenced by, and en- organized the event. “We elements of contemporary also did more benefits than anyone in the ‘20s and ‘30s BCMFest Celtic Music thusiastically embrace, really liked the idea of culture. and ‘40s . . . She really cared about all those causes, Monday concert, on May the Irish tradition. Joyce these young women be- “The reason for this is which was great, but she knew that if she was the first 10 at 8 p.m. in Harvard (fiddle, whistle, vocals) ing able to showcase their not that we want to dilute in the Milk Fund or first selling War Bonds, that her Square’s Club Passim, and Ruderman (accor- talents along with us, and the music in any way, but picture would be in the paper. will celebrate the presence dion) can often be heard not only from a musical that the young musicians BIR: She knew how to promote herself. of women in traditional at local sessions, and have standpoint. It’s a great of our generation, instead MC: Right. She invented self promotion. We’re all music — as singers, mu- appeared as a duo and networking tool to per- of thinking of traditional so lucky now, between the Internet and television and sicians, arrangers, and individually at various form in double and triple music as going against whatever. But she just thought, ‘How do I get my name tune composers, as well BCMFest events, includ- bills — you build some the mainstream, see it out there,’ and she just figured it out. She was tireless. I as characters portrayed ing in the festival’s finale great connections that as something that can had the good fortune of going to Brandeis to look through in songs and ballads concerts of 2008 and 2009. way, and that’s certainly be — and should be — as her papers. She kept every greeting card anyone ever handed down through •Katie McNally & something important for immediate and relevant sent her. Any card from any flowers, (whether it was) generations. Bethany Waickman — women in traditional as any other style of music. from a fan or Toots Shor, it didn’t matter, she kept Three duos will be fea- McNally, the 2009 New music.” And therefore the tradi- them all. And they’re all in scrapbooks . . . every press tured in the “Women In England Scottish Fiddle Raised by folk singing tion continues.” clipping she ever had. There are like 200 scrapbooks. Trad” show: Champion and two-time mothers, and as mothers Admission for Celtic She knew what she was doing, and she was amazing •Liz Simmons & Han- runner-up Junior Nation- now themselves, Sim- Music Monday is $12, $6 at it. On top of being incredibly talented. nah Sanders — Both al Scottish Fiddle Cham- mons and Sanders have a for members of Club Pas- “The Great American Trailer Park Musical,” through New Hampshire native pion, has become a regular special perspective on the sim, WGBH and WUMB. May 30, from SpeakEasy Stage at the Boston Center for Simmons (who performs performer in the Boston/ dynamics of traditional See clubpassim.org or call the Arts. Tickets: 617-933-8600 or bostontheatrescene. with the bands Annalivia New England area, and music and women in the 617-492-7679 for reserva- com. “Sophie Tucker: The Last of the Red Hot Mamas,” and Long Time Courting) last year made her debut 1960s and ’70s as opposed tions or more information. June 24 - July 11 at New Repertory Theatre, Arsenal and the England-born with the fiddle super- to now. Open door – The BC- Center for the Arts in Watertown. Tickets: 617-923-8487 Sanders were nurtured group Childsplay. An “The women of our MFest Board will hold or newrep.org. by full-time musician accomplished and highly mothers’ generation were another open meeting parents whose interests sought-after guitarist, part of the folk revival on Wed., May 19. This is included traditional folk Waickman has played movement, which had a a chance to learn about music; in fact, Simmons with fiddler-vocalist Lissa very specific approach BCMFest, and to offer and Sanders often trav- Scheckenburger and as to traditional music: It your suggestions and com- eled, and sometimes per- part of the contra dance dovetailed with the other ments. Send an e-mail to formed, with their re- trio Anadama. revolutionary movements [email protected] for spective parents on their “The idea was to get of the time, so it was one the meeting time and musical tours. Discover- three female duos — in of the facets of the larger location. ing their shared love for this instance one focused ‘hippie’ culture,” says For more information the folk music tradition on traditional English Simmons. “Nowadays, on BCMFest, see bcmfest. linking America and the and American material, traditional players and com; you can also sign up Mary Callanan (center) with Kerry Dowling (left) British Isles, Sanders and another on traditional singers are often urban ar- for the BCMFest e-mail list Simmons last year began and Leigh Barrett (right) in “The Great Ameri- Irish, and the third on tistic types who are more via the Web site. can Trailer Park Musical” at SpeakEasy Stage performing as a duo – in- traditional Scottish — to career-oriented about through May 30. Photo: Mark L. Saperstein Page 16 May 2010 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com The Lindsays, Congress School Fiddlers Play Memorial Hall, Plymouth on May 8 Traditional Irish music Pilgrimage in Plymouth; table seating is available Blair on fiddle, replac- courting.com] has won in a symphonic setting they are currently finish- for $65 and $55. Senior, ing Ellery Klein, who is praise for its sterling mu- will fill Plymouth’s Me- ing up a new CD. youth and group discounts moving overseas. Blair, sicianship and singing, as morial Hall when Susan The Congress School are offered, and $5 student a mainstay of the Provi- well as its arrangements and Stephen Lindsay and fiddlers, who range from “rush” tickets are sold at dence and Boston session of mainly traditional tunes fiddlers from the Congress 15-17 years of age, have the door one hour before scenes before relocating and songs from Ireland and School of Irish Music in appeared in concert halls the performance as avail- to Vermont, is best known Scotland. The band also Quincy join the Plymouth in Dublin as well as great- able. Advance tickets can for her work on the contra includes Shannon Heaton Long Time Courting Philharmonic Orchestra er Boston. be purchased by phone at dance circuit, especially on flute, whistle, accordion will introduce their new for its season-ending ex- Among the pieces to 508-746-8008 or online at with her band The Sevens. and vocals, who plays in a fiddler, Sarah Blair, at travaganza, “Celtic Pops: be performed at the plymouthphil.org. She has a solo CD, “Flower duo with husband Matt; their June 4 concert in A Feast of Irish Music,” on May 8 concert are Leroy Elsewhere on the con- of the Red Mill,” and has guitarist-vocalist Liz Sim- Somerville. Sat., May 8 at 8 p.m. Anderson¹s “Irish Suite,” cert front, Long Time recorded two others with mons, a member of the The Lindsays combine Percy Grainger¹s “Irish Courting will debut its The Sevens; she also ap- “alt-trad” band Annalivia, Hanneke Cassel. vocals, guitar, Irish flute, Tune from County Derry new lineup when the pears on a two-volume set and of a recently formed The suggested minimum whistle and saxophone, (Danny Boy),” music from popular local all-female of New England contra duo with Hannah Sanders donation for the Long Time their music inspired by “Finian’s Rainbow,” selec- traditional music quar- dance musicians that in- that will appear at the May Courting concert, which Irish tradition but fla- tions from Michael Flat- tet performs next month cludes Mary Cay Brass, 10 BCMFest Celtic Music begins at 8 p.m., is $15 at vored by rock, jazz, and ley’s “Lord of the Dance,” in Somerville as part of Frank Ferrel, Bob Mc- Monday event in Club Pas- the door ($12 in advance) contemporary folk. The and a selection of tradi- the notloB Folk Concerts Quillen, Keith Murphy & sim [see this month’s “BC- and $5-10 for students, husband-wife duo regu- tional Irish fiddle tunes as series. Becky Tracy, Mary Lea MFest update” feature]; children and seniors. For larly performs around the well as singalongs. The concert, which will and Susan Conger and Pe- and cellist-vocalist Ariel more information, see Boston area and two years Individual ticket prices be held June 4 at Unity ter Barnes, among others. Friedman, who performs sites.google.com/site/not- ago released a CD recorded are $50, $45, $35 and Church of God near Davis Formed in 2008, Long in a duo with her sister Mia lobmusic. live in the Church of the $20. Limited cabaret-style Square, will feature Sarah Time Courting [longtime- and with Scottish fiddler – SEAN SMITH usic In any case, with “Ceol & Cuimhne,” Teada appears contemporary. One set, for instance, starts with all BIR M to have established itself as an instrumental-only band, five musicians playing together on the bold, graceful since their last album “Inné Amárach” had no vocal “Poitin March,” before Mac Diarmada, Stenson and tracks, either. But there’s plenty of lyricism here, in the McElwain take up the polka “Devlin’s” – McElwain’s CD Roundup fiddle of Oisin Mac exquisite guitar helping give the tune a gentler feel Diarmada and the than one might expect for a polka – before Finn ushers By Sean Smith flute of Damien in the first of two reels, “Basket of Oysters,” and then Special to the BIR Stenson, along Mac Diarmada makes a surprise appearance on piano with the agile ac- for “Crotty’s Glory.” McElwain’s lovely bouzouki arpeg- Teada, “Ceol & Cuimhne (Music and Memory)” cordion of Paul gio opens the curtain on a set of reels that showcases – No mincing words here: This is an absolute joy of Finn; add some Stenson and Rosenstock (“The Russians Are Coming,” an album, full of energetic, robust musicianship that deft, subtle guitar which comes from a manuscript of Sliabh Luachra follows, but does not strictly adhere to, a largely tra- and bouzouki by fiddler John Buckley and presumably did not inspire ditional approach. Sean McElwain the 1966 movie), ending with “The Boston-Sligo Reel” The Sligo-based band’s fourth album is conceptual, in and solid bodhran by Brendan Tonra – a favorite of both titular locales. a sense, at least as regards the title: As the liner notes by Tristan Rosen- The band also brings in a few guests: Piper Tommy by Irish Times writer Frank McNally explain, observers stock, and you Martin and sean-nos dancer Brian Cunningham en- as diverse as the poet Shelley and contemporary neu- have a clean, well- liven a polka-slip jig-jig medley (including Ed Reavy’s roscientists have spoken of the persistence of music in balanced sound “Crossroads Dance”), and Grainne Hambly’s harp is one’s memory, no matter the loss of other faculties. So that allows one to savor practically every note of every given plenty of room on “A Sligo Air/Sally Gally” – with Teada’s point might be that, despite Ireland’s upheavals jig, reel, polka, or march to which they lay their col- Finn and Mac Diarmada providing some particularly of the past decade or so, from Celtic Tiger to financial lective hands. musical cross-hatching on the air. crisis, its music tradition survives, and thrives. Or this Teada’s arrangements and choice of material also Certainly a memorable album, which would appear might be an album reviewer’s attempt at mind-reading. strike a pleasing balance between traditional and to be what Teada had in mind.

GERARD’S ADAMS CORNER 772 - 776 Adams Street Dorchester, MA 02124 617-282-6370 Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com May 2010 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 17 Scottish Fiddle Tradition Has a Champion in Hanneke Cassel (Continued from page 14) mental and vocal inter- veritable string section “It was incredible to to China have helped to re- “And, hey, I still love pretations of hymns), and supplied by Friedman, listen to the stories there: affirm her religious faith, Irish music,” says Cassel, like most Cassel albums, Eggleston, Kimber Lu- One of the girls had been which she has neither who has performed with it is a kind of musical diker and Kellen Zakula kidnapped from her family particularly downplayed Cherish the Ladies and travelogue for the past few — and “The Crane Estate” at age 5, and had entered nor promoted in her mu- the Cathie Ryan Band. years — many of the tunes are similarly stately and the home at age 13. I sical career. “I’ve never But all those visits to commemorate a journey elegant yet impassioned. decided right then and made a conscious effort Valley of the Moon and or adventure, an event in As anyone who’s seen there that I had to make to broadcast it, it’s been other fiddle camps, and the life of a friend or fam- Cassel perform live or – this CD, and that I would there all along. There was ily member, or simply an her tutelage under Fra- better yet – call a ceilidh write something about a concern I had, I suppose, Hanneke Cassel’s new ser, among others, wound in-joke or turn of phrase dance knows, she has this place.” about not wanting to be CD, “For Reasons Un- up pointing Cassel more that caught the ear of equal affinity for the more If “Jungle Java” repre- grouped in with ‘Chris- seen,” offers another and more in the direc- Cassel and appealed to rugged, hard-charging sents the inspiration for tian music’ at first. But I fine sampling of her tion of Scottish music: her considerable sense of facet of Scottish music, the album, she adds, the do think that, as you get unique Scottish-Ameri- In 1997, she won the US whimsy and fun. and demonstrates this “For Reasons Unseen” older, you become more can music. National Scottish Fiddle Cassel’s albums also aptly on a medley of track is meant as its confident about who you Championship (she won tend to involve numerous traditional strathspeys mission statement. “I’ve are. I like Scottish music there were several girls the junior championship guest musicians, whether and reels; Driessen and always liked that title — and I’m a Christian, but I saw regularly, and we in 1992 and 1994). Yet it’s her regular support Eggleston join her for this, it was actually the name people know who I am, so just developed a very close while she continued to band members Keith sounding at times like of a band some friends of there’s no labels to worry bond,” she says. “I was explore the Scottish tradi- Murphy (guitar), Chris- a delightfully deranged mine were in many years about. fortunate enough to have tion, Cassel began to write topher Lewis (guitar) and string quartet (“Oh yes, ago — and when I had “The things I’ve seen a wonderful fiddle teacher her own compositions Ariel Friedman (cello), or we had a lot of fun with the experience in Jungle in China, and elsewhere, in Carol Ann Wheeler in and developed a different more far-flung friends she that one,” she says). Java, it seemed to take make it so apparent to me my early teens. I think sound. The Scottish style has accumulated over the But two tracks, “Jungle on a whole new meaning: where God is, and I have a because I remembered — which she defines as years, including Fraser, Java” — featuring a sort about not knowing why lot of joy because of that.” how hard life can be at age having an “up-and-down, Natalie Haas (cello), Brit- of Celtic scat vocal part something happens, but Another source of intro- 13, and how nice it was vertical quality” with tany Haas (fiddle, violin), for Cortese and Hannah that it turns into some- spection for Cassel is see- to have an older woman percussive, flamboyant Rushad Eggleston (cello), Read — and “For Rea- thing wonderful.” ing some of her first Bos- to look up to, I wanted to grace notes – is apparent Casey Driessen (five- sons Unseen/Rong Hua In that context, the ton-area fiddle students do something similar for in her playing, but there string fiddle), and Ryan (Velvet Flower),” reflect Chinese song “Rong Hua come of age as musicians these girls. are characteristics that McKasson (viola), as well one of Cassel’s more (Velvet Flower)” — a la- with their own identities, “I’m very proud of them: hint at something else, as Lissa Schneckenburger compelling experiences ment about a girl in war- such as Katie McNally – They work very hard at whether it’s an alteration (fiddle) and Laura Cortese of the past several years, time and the hardships who had her first headline the music, and I know in bowing rhythm, for (vocals), who along with her visits, and deepening she undergoes — which is show at Club Passim they’ll do very well.” instance, or an improvi- Cassel are part of the connection, to China. In paired with “For Reasons recently, which Cassel Cassel will be perform- sational run in the midst all-too-occasional fiddle addition to giving con- Unseen” functions as a attended – Amanda Ca- ing with Highland Dance of a medley. band Halali. certs, meeting Chinese coda of sorts. “This song vanaugh (who released Boston on May 23 at the “I call it the ‘American The opening track, “Ides musicians and even run- just made me think about her first CD last year and Boston University Dance style’ of Scottish music,” of March,” written for her ning occasional ceilidhs the commonality in folk was in Childsplay along Theater. The concert will says Cassel. “It’s not mother, showcases the (“I’ve actually taught music. No matter what with McNally last fall), feature choreographed Appalachian, it’s not refined yet expressive as- ‘The Virginia Reel’ in part of the world, folk mu- and Abbie MacQuarrie, dances set to music from Texan, but it’s definitely pect of Cassel’s work, her Chinese. It’s getting to be sic all seems to come from who is completing her “For Reasons Unseen” and American.” soulful fiddle riding atop like ‘The Shanghai Urban the same place, a place of undergraduate degree in some of Cassel’s previous “For Reasons Unseen” Natalie Haas’ gentle cello Ceilidh.’”), she has visited sadness and humor, and Scotland. recordings. For ticket is her first release since and Cassel’s persistent orphanages and spent people express it in ways “When I moved here to information and other de- 2006 in this Scottish- but tender piano, Sch- time with the children that are far more similar attend Berklee, I started tails, see highlanddance- American hybrid genre neckenburger adding an there: “Jungle Java,” she than we might think.” teaching some local kids, boston.org/hdbconcert. (she did a seven-track CD equally plaintive second explains, is the name of For Cassel, her travels and over the course of time html. in 2007, “Calm the Raging voice later on in the track. a café that doubles as a Sea,” featuring instru- “Scandalous” — with a home for street children. Page 18 May 2010 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com Traveling People Eruption Equals Disruption for Those Coming, Those Going

By Judy Enright Special to the BIR What a crazy month for travelers! If you had told someone prior to April that you couldn’t visit due to a volcanic ash cloud, they’d think you were joking. And that’s exactly what I thought when a longtime friend called from England to cancel her April 15 trip to Mayo. Of course, as our readers know, she was not joking and the eruption of the Icelandic volcano and resulting shutdown of air- ports all over Ireland, the British Isles, and Europe has been anything but a joke. Thousands of flights were cancelled and airlines say they’ve lost more than a billion euro. And, there were other losses, too ,such as the fragile blooms flown from Kenya Irish Transport Minister, Noel Dempsey, T.D., right front, leads a pack of whose longevity depends bicyclists who inaugurated the Great Western Greenway from Newport to on the speed of airfreight. Mulranny, Co. Mayo, on April 16. The Greenway is a great boon to outdoor Kenya’s flower exporters, enthusiasts who are severely challenged by walking or riding bikes on Ire- I was interested to learn, land’s busy roads and it is expected to benefit the area economically. The supply about a third of the completion of the Greenway and cooperation from all the landowners along flower imports into the the route shows, Dempsey said, “that the community is alive and well in the European Union. West of Ireland” and sets a precedent for other projects of this sort across the In the tourist industry, country. (Judy Enright photo) Fáilte Ireland (the Irish Undoubtedly the youngest “rider” to join the offi- arm of our Tourism Ire- to be honest, other than they planned to catch a on curves, and drive at cial opening of the Great Western Greenway in Co. land) cancelled Meitheal, feeling desperately sorry ferry to Portsmouth and speeds that are simply Mayo on April 16 was Matthew McHale who hitched the biggest tourism trade for everyone. We’ve really ultimately to Dublin Port. mind-boggling given the a ride in this buggy pulled along behind his Dad’s fair of the year, which had had blow after blow in the But the weather even- width and condition of bicycle. The day began with a breakfast spread at been set to start April 20. tourism industry and this tually changed, the skies the roads. So being able Nevin’s Tiernaur Inn in Newfield, Mulranny, fol- Some 300 Irish tourist is making things go from reopened and air travel to enjoy the scenery on a lowed by remarks from local and national officials. firms had planned to pitch bad to worse.” returned to normal. Now walking/cycling path is a Cyclists then rode the route to Mulranny where a their product to more than Between April 15 and it just remains for all the dream come true for the plaque was unveiled at the end of the route behind 250 overseas operators April 18, nearly 2,000 Monday morning quarter- local residents and their the Mulranny Park Hotel. (Judy Enright photo) from 23 countries who flights in and out of Dub- backs to debate the many guests and for tourists to couldn’t get to Ireland. lin, Cork, and Shannon aspects and wisdom of the area. reland.com. the other transatlantic Meitheal has been re- were cancelled, upset- shutting down the skies. Dempsey thanked more scheduled for May. TRAVEL PLANS airlines and book your ting travel plans of some Frankly, I’d rather be safe than 70 landowners who Now that flights are trip to the Emerald Isle. For Irish rental car 230,000 passengers. That than sorry and applaud granted passage over companies – like Dooley in the air again, be sure It’s a great place to be at number increased with the civil aviation authori- their land for the Gre- to visit aerlingus.com or any time of year. Car Rentals – it has been each passing day. ties, volcanic information enway and added that a nightmare, says Pat The Times reported center and airlines for the project shows that Dooley, CEO. “We are that the International taking that cautious ap- community spirit is alive refunding in full clients Air Transport Associa- proach. and well in the West of who cannot make it here tion (IATA) had given a GREAT WESTERN Ireland. He said he ex- and amending those that “conservative” estimate GREENWAY pected the Greenway to can get new travel dates, that the volcanic eruption But, don’t fret. Not all bring economic benefit to all without fees. It is a cost the airline industry of Ireland is in dire straits the area as well and serve nightmare with extra staff more than $200 million and, in fact, there were a as a model for future walk- dealing with the admin- (150 million euro) per day great many happy folks in ing/cycling paths. istration. Those visiting in lost revenues. the West who attended the FOODIES WELCOME here from the USA are Some were pretty inven- April 16 official opening If you’ve visited Ireland having to extend their tive about getting where of the 18km traffic-free lately, you know that the stay. So we have many they needed to go, though, Great Western Greenway food is amazing, locally trying to get into the coun- like actor John Cleese, that runs from Newport sourced and fresh, and try and as many trying to who paid $4,950 for a taxi to Mulranny in Co. Mayo. that chefs here are incred- get out.” to take him from Norway Transport Minister ibly inventive. And, The Irish Times to Belgium so he could Noel Dempsey, T.D., of- Kinsale in Co. Cork is reported that Eamonn catch the Eurostar train ficiated and was surely the acknowledged Gour- McKeon, chief execu- home to London. And, Mi- delighted to don a helmet, met Capital of Ireland tive of the Irish Tourist chael Parsons, who wrote hop on a bike, and enjoy a but may be getting some Industry Confederation, in The Irish Times that he sunny, brilliant Mayo day competition from 38 food said, “It’s really, really was one of 53 marooned in rather than dealing with producers and restau- unfathomable, but nature Rome who each paid 150 the airline crisis. rants on The Taste of is nature. There’s not a euro for a seat on a bus to Crowds gathered at Kilkenny Food Trail. A thing you can do about it, Le Havre in France, where Nevin’s Newfield Inn, then detailed guide and map many joined the minister are available and visitors and rode the greenway are invited to sample ev- . from John and Hannah erything from chocolates Prospect Hill Company Moran’s farm into Mul- to cheese and sausage and ranny where the official to visit local restaurants. “Personalized Attention Since 1951” ceremony took place be- BURREN IN BLOOM hind the Park Hotel. If you’re in Co. Clare COMMUNION DRESSES The Greenway primar- in May, be sure to visit a ily follows the bed of the tourist office and find out OVER 400 DRESSES IN STOCK old Newport/Mulranny about all the programs Great Selection of Plus Sizes Railway, once part of the offered under the banner Veils ✦ Shoes ✦ Slips ✦ Gloves famed Westport/Achill of the Burren in Bloom. Purses ✦ Boleros ✦ Capes ✦ Sweaters Railway that operated Winter was harsh this for 42 years but closed year and the flowers are BOYS’ WHITE SUITS in 1937. The route offers about a month late, so STARTING AT $59.50 gentle gradients, is part May should be absolutely of the National Cycle Net- bursting with blooms. SIZES 5 TO 20 IN STOCK work, and is the longest This program enters Blue Sportcoats ✦ Shoes ✦ Shirts ✦ Ties ✦ Belts off-road cycling path in around the town of Bal- The biggest news in Ireland last month was the vol- OMMUNION IFTS the country. lyvaughan, the “capital canic ash cloud that grounded hundreds of flights C G We’ve written before of the Burren,” and cel- and stranded thousands of people including this Music Boxes • Medals & Chains • Photo Album that being on Ireland’s ebrates the arrival of sum- foursome from Marshfield, MA, who were unable Plaques • Rosaries • Paper Products • Invitations roads is incredibly daunt- mer. There are all kinds of to return home when their fight was cancelled. ing and not just because activities planned for all Because it’s a small world, a Norwell resident who American Girl Doll Dresses too! we are accustomed to ages, including festivals, rents a house on Clew Bay in Co. Mayo in the spring, Visit the Largest Religious Goods Store in Massachusetts driving on the other side a whale watch and there’s rescued them and gave them shelter. Clew Bay is Inspirational Gifts ✦ Music ✦ Books ✦ Bibles of the road. Many Irish even a Burren marathon where the famous Pirate Queen, Grace O’Malley, Corner of North Main & Field Streets, Brockton/Avon Line drivers – especially the on May 22 when hundreds once terrorized the coastline. From left, Chris and Mon: 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. ✦ Tues-Sat: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. young – cling to your bum- of walkers take to the Kathy Holmquest and Mary and Jim Curran, stand- hills. For more informa- ing in front of Rosturk Castle. – per (especially if you’re MINUTES OFF ROUTE 24 1-800-586-1951 not going 100 km), pass tion, see ballyvaughani- (Judy Enright photo) Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com May 2010 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 19 Thirty-Two Counties

Antrim: A monument is tion of a Cork family that first riverside in Rooskey. to be erected in the garden of opened a butcher’s shop in Limerick: If an application remembrance in Carrickfergus Mallow in 1870. The Sheehan lodged with the City Council last in memory of a soldier from the family have now opened a new month is successful, Limerick town who was killed twenty store in Douglas, the first one might in the futurer have a years ago in a proxy bomb attack to be opened on the south side new fast link with both Galway in Newry. Ranger Cyril Smith of Cork city. Eugene Sheehan and the Aran Islands. Harbour was a member of the Royal Irish reopened the shop in Mallow Air Ireland hopes to provide Rangers and the monument will in the 1960s and now his sons facilities for the berthing of a sea carry the badge of the regiment Eugene, Colm, David, and Ed- plane on the Shannon in front as well as the Carrickfergus ward have opened three further of the Clarion Hotel, with float- coat of arms. The inscription stores, in Mallow, Kanturk and ing pontoons, mooring anchors, on the two-foot tall gravestone St Luke’s. Young Jack donned and an access gangway. The will include Ranger Smith’s a butcher’s apron to take part departure lounge for the service name, a biblical verse and the in the official opening of the would be located in the foyer motto of the Rangers, “faugh-a- new store in Douglas. After the of the hotel, with passengers balagh”. The monument is to be nineteenth century opening of travelling to Foynes, Galway, or dedicated next month when up the butcher’s shop in Mallow the the Aran Islands. The company to six hundred members of the Sheehan family also diversified would eventually like to see ter- Rangers will attend a parade into cattle dealing. minals established in Athlone, from the Harbour car park to Derry: A restaurant and a Belfast, Cork, Dublin, Galway, the memorial gardens. pub in Magherafelt have both and Nenagh, with the main base Armagh: Armagh city has been named as regional win- at Mountshannon in Co. Clare. seen the installation of the first ners for the Irish Restaurant Longford: In what could be of six commissioned pieces of Awards 2010. Sean Owens, seen as a return to the old ways public artwork, at Scotch Street. who owns The Gardners in of policing, a community garda The thirty-foot high stainless the town, was named as the has been appointed to Granard steel structure by Martin Heron, Best Chef in the County at the to foster ties with local residents. entitled “For the Love of Emer,” awards ceremony in Belfast. Garda Tracy Shanley, originally depicts Cuchulainn balancing Meanwhile the title of Best from Killeshandra, has been on a tilting twenty-foot pole. Gastro Pub in the County was given the task of working with Other sculptures are to be awarded to local pub Mary’s. the community in order to get placed at Upper English Street The two establishments were to know them, and for people and the Market Place Theatre, nominated by newspaper read- to become familiar with her while ceramic wall art, railings, ers, members of the Restaurant duties. Much of these concern and a miniature sculpture trail Association of Ireland, and by crime prevention and she has comprise the other projects. The regional judging panels. Both already given talks to groups next project to be completed is Sean and Mary’s will now go of elderly people about security the miniature sculpture trail, forward to vie for the All-Ireland in the home and the dangers of while the final piece will be put title to be announced in June at National Trust, a new lake walk photography, a wedding cake, keeping large amounts of cash in ,place in December. the Burlington Hotel in Dublin. has been created at Castle Coole wedding outfits for the entire on the premises. On the other Carlow: The members of Donegal: A cannon rescued Demesne outside Enniskillen. bridal party, rings, flowers and a side of the coin, Garda Shanley the Tullow Active Retirement from the wreck of the Lauren- The walk follows part of the orig- wedding car. Louise, who works is well used to handing out anti- Association who recently took tic in Lough Swilly is now on inal lake walk, created in the for Top Oil in Kildare town, and social behavior orders from her part in the Active Retirement display at Downings Pier. The late eighteenth century, which Trevor, a self-employed painter days on the beat in Dublin and Association National Bowls seven-ton cannon was recovered has been out of use for a hundred and decorator, hope to be mar- has already handed out some Competition held in Castlebar, by a team of local divers led years. In addition to providing ried before the end of this year. in Granard. Co. Mayo, came home with two by Kevin McShane after three changing vistas around the Kilkenny: A historic march Louth: Dundalk last played very creditable silver medals. years of preparatory dives. The lake, the walk will also provide took place through the gates host to the RÁS cycle race more The first team comprised Jimmy Laurentic, carrying more than visitors with the opportunity to of Kilkenny Castle last month than twenty years ago but this Byrne, Eileen Kealy, Tom Kealy three thousand gold bars, was observe the abundant wildlife when army veterans from year the town will see stage one and Nellie Maher, while Jim sunk off Malin Head in 1917 on the lake including mallard both sides of the border joined of the race ending in the town Bolger, Brenda Callaghan, Mol- by German mines and over the and tufted duck, heron, water forces in a parade hosted by centre on May 23. Up to one hun- ly Mulhall and Pat O’Callaghan next seven years most of the gold hen, coot and kingfisher. The the Kilkenny branch of The dred and fifty cyclists, accompa- were the members of the second ingots were recovered. However 30,000-pound lake project is Veterans of the Island of Ire- nied by a larger support crew, team. The teams lost out in the twenty still remain covered up part of a 170,000-pound invest- land Association. Among those will certainly give a boost to the finals to the teams from Dublin by rubble and according to Ray ment in the Castle. taking part were vice-chairman town’s hotels and restaurants. and Gorey, respectively, but Cossum, whose family owns the Galway: While there has of the local branch Paddy Horo- The fact that the race is coming were nonetheless very pleased wreck, it would cost as much to been general agreement among han, and Harry Lawlor from St is the result of a campaign by Pat with their silver medals. The recover them as they are now Galway councillors that Enda Kieran’s Crescent. Other local O’Shaughnessy and members of trophies were presented to the worth. Some of the funding for Ó Coineen, John Killeen, and veterans taking part included the Cuchulainn Cycling Club, winners at a gala ball in the the retrieval of the cannon was Eamon Conneely should be Paddy O’Meara, Martin Barrett, who submitted a route to the Breaffy House Hotel on the final donated by the county council. granted the Freedom of the City Mick Dawson, Mick Furlong, organizers which was accepted. evening of the event. Down: For only the fourth for their part in bringing the and Bernard O’Donovan. The Before the racing finish in the Cavan: A campaign has time in its history the Celtic Volvo Ocean Race to Galway, aim of the march, which was ac- town centre the competitors will begun to erect a memorial to Media Festival will this year opinion is divided over the tim- companied by the Kilkenny City have tackled the challenging the victims of the 1943 fire in take place in the North. Now ing of the event. While Mayor and District Pipe Band, was to Long Woman’s Grave. St Clare’s Convent in Cavan in its thirty-first year and last Declan McDonnell would like foster principles of comradeship Mayo: In the early hours town that claimed the lives of held in the North seven years to confer the honor at the an- among veterans throughout the of April 15, the village of La- thirty-five children and one ago, the three-day festival will nual Mayoral Ball this month, island of Ireland. hardane in Addergoole was adult. The authors of a book on centre on The Canal Court Ho- others feel this would politicize Laois: Eoghan Masterson enlivened by the ringing of bells, the subject, Heather Laskey and tel in Newry with the keynote the gesture. Some of the council- from Ratheniska has become the reciting of poetry, and the Mavis Arnold, have lent their address being delivered by Bob lors would like to see a separate the first member of Portlaoise singing of songs of emigration. support to the project, initiated Collins, inaugural Chair of the ceremony held at St Nicholas’ rugby club to play with Ireland’s The event marked the village’s by Eamon Carthy and Sean Gal- Broadcasting Authority of Ire- Collegiate Church, while others international youths team after association with the RMS Ti- ligan. A preliminary meeting land. During the festival Bronze believe the conferring should going on during the recent FIRA tanic, which sank at 2.20 a.m. has already been held in the Torcs of Excellence will be pre- take place when the Volvo Ocean championships in Italy on the on the morning of April 15, Farnham Arms and a further sented in twenty-one categories Race returns to Galway in two Irish under-eighteen side. The 1912. On board were fourteen meeting will take place soon to celebrate the best in digital years’ time. fifteen-year-old, who attends people from Lahardane, three at which a committee will be media, film, radio, and televi- Kerry: In the middle of Mass Portlaoise CBS, is optimistic men and eleven women, and of elected. Support has also been sion among the Celtic diaspora. during the run-up to Easter that he will now gain a place these only three of the women promised from Father John Gil- The awards will be presented by week in St Mary’s Cathedral in on the Leinster squad. While survived. At the bell tower of hooley, while Sister Margaret of Karen Kirby from the BBC and Killarney a bolt of lightning hit attaining the heights in interna- St Patrick’s Church three slow the Poor Clare Order has said Dónal Mac Ruairí from RTE. the spire and caused a blackout. tional rugby, Eoghan has missed knells for each of the eleven they will be making a donation Dublin: When the original The lightning was preceded by out on quite a few games with lost, and fast peals for the three towards the memorial plaque. Asgard was used to bring rifles a tremendous clap of thunder his club, and has also had to put survivors were rung, with some Clare: In order to launch the and ammunition to Dublin in and in addition to the lights off any hopes of gaining a place of the bellringers being direct 2010 An Post Tour de Burren a 1914, the British Army occupied going out, the sound system on the Laois minor football panel descendants of those who died number of cyclists from the Bur- Collins Barracks, and the ves- also failed. However power was for the next couple of years. that day. ren Cycling Club, including Olaf sel’s history has now come full restored quite quickly when the Leitrim: A group of young Meath: Although cyclists are O’Neill and Noel Shannon, rode circle with the announcement generator kicked in. Some parts people have been working with usually banned from motorways off the pier in Ballyvaughan that the restored vessel is to of the cathedral were perma- the county council Arts Office an exception will be made this and plunged into the less than be on display in the National nently affected by the lightning in the selection of a new public month for an event to raise temperate waters of the Atlan- Museum of Ireland at Collins including the telephone system, art work which was launched funds for the drug awareness tic. The organizers of this year’s Barracks. Three years’ work, the electric organ ,and the in- last month. eNfore Art involved charity Aisling Group Inter- event, The Burren Cycling Club at a total cost of 600,000 euro, church plasma screens, which artist Niall Walsh and a group of national. The M3 Cycle was and Clare Sports Partnership, has seen the yacht restored to are all under repair at present. nine people from Bornacoola and launched by the charity, with are hoping to double the number its original condition, certainly Kildare: Louise Hickey and Annaduff who worked alongside three distances to choose from. who took part last year, when externally where ninety per cent Trevor Callan have been named him as artists’ technicians. The fourteen-kilometre route eight hundred people mounted of the oak and pine have been as the winners of the wedding The group, all former students is designated a fun cycle; the their bikes. Three routes will be retained on its deck and hull. giveaway run by the Kildare of Marian College, included fifty-five-kilometre route has on offer, a ten-kilometre run en- The interior of the vessel, given Nationalist and Carlton Abbey Sinead Rogers, Susan Mulli- been dubbed the Boyne Cycle; titled the Aillwee Cave Family to Erskine and Molly Childers Hotel and C Spa. The young gan, Clodagh Geelan, Sheena and the longest route, of one Loop, the Corkscrew Challenge as a wedding present by her couple, who met at a Leaving Faughnan, Victoria Duignan, hundred kilometres, is named of sixty kilometres, and the parents, was removed when the Certificate disco in the town, Emma Cunningham, Sarah after the late cycling champion Burnin’ Burren route, which Asgard became part of the Irish will be holding their reception in Cumiskey, Lorraine Cox ,and Paul Healion, who was from encompasses one hundred and Navy, but this has been finished the hotel with one hundred and Brendan Corcoran. The sculp- Dunboyne. Once the almost sixty kilometres. with new timber. twenty guests. They will also tural work, the culmination of completed motorway is opened Cork: Jack Sheehan, aged Fermanagh: After months have a one-year membership of the collaboration, is entitled to traffic, cyclists will be banned, eleven, is the seventh genera- of reconstruction work by the the hotel’s leisure club, wedding “Togher” and is located at the (Continued on page 20) Page 20 May 2010 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com News Direct From Ireland Pope accepts resignation which led to the deaths of sig- turned to Armagh to rest after of Bishop Moriarty – Pope nificant numbers of young deer undergoing a thorough medical Benedict XVI accepted the res- Ireland Today: and nesting birds, is believed to examination at Craigavon Area ignation of Bishop of Kildare and have been started deliberately Hospital. Leighlin Jim Moriarty on April Passport Backlog and people have been asked to New top Jesuit – Fr Tom 22. Before his current appoint- be watchful to prevent further Layden, who is based in Belfast, ment, the highly popular prelate outbreaks. has been named as the head of was an auxiliary bishop of Dub- Reaches 66,000 Permission granted for the Jesuit Order in Ireland. He lin and, although not criticised in The number of passport applications to be processed reached Cork docks project – An Bord is due to take up his new posi- the Murphy Report, he says that 66,000 in mid-April, an increase of 16,000 since the end of March. Pleanala has approved plans tion on July 31 and will work in he must accept responsibility for A spokesman for the Department of Foreign Affairs has said for a major development at Belfast and Portadown as well as not challenging the prevailing the size of the backlog is due to last month’s industrial action Cork docks which will include on a project involving an educa- culture when he was “part of the at the Passport Office in Dublin and an increase in the number the construction of two swing tion centre in Ballymun, Dublin. governance of the Archdiocese of applications received. Staff are at present processing 3,000 bridges. Cork city manager Joe Sailor fined and discharged prior to when correct child pro- applications each day while applications have increased to 4,000 Gavin has said he is confident over leaked information – At tection policies and procedures per day, 24.8 percent up over the same time in 2009. Much of that the project will go ahead a court martial on April 14, Able were implemented”. this increase is caused by applications coming in early to avoid despite one of the companies in- Seaman Eoin Gray, 24, was given Relics of Curé d’Ars on tour last minute panics. Following the bad publicity brought on by volved being Howard Holdings. a three-month jail sentence in Ireland – Starting April 25, industrial action in late March, the Civil Public and Services The company’s chief executive, and was discharged from the the relics of St John Vianney, Union ended its ban on overtime, as well as the restrictions on Greg Coughlan, is expected to Defence Forces after pleading known as the Curé d’Ars and the answering phone calls and the manning of public desks. be arrested shortly for the non- guilty to disclosing information patron saint of parish priests, payment of 28-mill;ion euro in about the movement of his ship, were on display at St Francis’ ence Auction run by Mealey’s han, a retired solicitor, has suc- property loans. the LE Orla. Gray had obtained Church in Cork. Over the next auctioneers of Kilkenny and ceeded at Ennis Circuit Court in Snippets – Dublin City information from a friend in the three days they will move to Dublin-based Adams. The seller closing the Laughing Buddha, Council plans to close three of Fisheries Monitoring Centre in the Church of St John Vian- of the letter was also a descend- a head shop operating from its swimming pools in August order to let his girlfriend know ney in Artane, Dublin; then St ant of one of Kevin Barry’s premises he owns on Chapel due to a funding crisis. Although whether he would be home on a Patrick’s Cathedral in Armagh; friends to whom he wrote the Lane. Houlihan was told by the the city is currently European particular weekend in December and finally to Knock Shrine. The letters. The 105,000 euro price shop’s operator, Conor Doyle, Capital of Sport it expects to 2008. Military judge Col. An- relics are in Ireland as one of a achieved was almost six times that the shop would be selling close the pools in Coolock, Seán thony McCourt ruled that Gray number of events to mark a “Year the guide price of 18,000k. Also items to support a children’s McDermott Street and Crum- could no longer be trusted in the for Priests”. sold at the auction was the cap charity in Nepal, and only lin. Councillors have tried to eyes of his superiors and that the Minister’s work continues badge worn by Michael Collins became aware of the nature of distance themselves from the offence warranted a custodial despite treatment – Despite on the day he was shot dead. It some of the goods on sale from county manager’s decision. … sentence. Gray had faced five undergoing what he described had a guide price of up to 3,000 a newspaper article. At Limer- Adele King, better known as the charges including at least one of as “a robust programme of treat- euro but went for 28,000k. ick Circuit Court last month, singer Twink, has reached an aiding drug smugglers to evade ment” for his cancer over the Head shops and the “legal Houlihan secured a temporary agreement with the Bank of Scot- naval patrols. When he agreed past three months, Minister for highs” remain in the news injunction to direct Mr Doyle to land and a repossession order for to plead guilty to one charge the Finance Brian Lenihan says he –Head shops and the “legal cease trading. her home in Knocklyon, Dublin, others were dropped. has been able to carry out all his highs” that they sell remain On Thursday a petrol bomb has now been removed. … The 20-year driving ban for duties, including parliamentary in the news. Dr Chris Luke, a was thrown into a head shop European School Survey Project drunk driving – Niall Shan- debates, media discussions, and consultant in emergency medi- in Dundalk, causing extensive on Alcohol and Other Drugs has non, 21, of Ballylongford, Co. Question Time in the Dáil. He cine, told delegates at the Irish damage. A person who was on found that, while alcohol use Kerry, was disqualified from was speaking to Seán O’Rourke Medical Organisation annual the premises managed to escape among Ireland’s young is lower driving for 20 years when he was of RTÉ radio’s “News at One.” conference last month that the uninjured. than the European average, and found guilty of drink driving in Lenihan also had the stamina to typical A&E unit every day has Massive gorse fire in Ker- falling, the country has one of an incident in which two men be interviewed at length recently to deal with two or three patients ry – Nine fire engines, water the highest rates of drunkenness died. Shannon drove into the by Marian Finucane. suffering from the effects of tak- tankers and a number of other among school students. scene of an earlier road accident, Kevin Barry’s letter changing head shop products. He fears vehicles were needed to contain Cardinal discharged from hitting fireman Michael Liston es hands for 105,000 euro – the products sold in head shops a massive gorse fire at the foot hospital – Cardinal Seán Brady, and Garda Brian Kelleher, who One of three letters written by more than he feared swine flu of Mangerton Mountain in Kil- who was admitted to hospital both died at the scene. Shannon Kevin Barry the night before he and predicts that more people larney on April 12. Firefighters after being taken ill during a had originally been charged with was executed has been sold to a will die as a result of the use of were called in from five separate Confirmation ceremony in Co. dangerous driving causing death descendant of one of the recipi- these synthetic drugs than the towns to contain the blaze, which Tyrone on Tuesday afternoon, but this was withdrawn after two ents. The letter was the main 24 who died from swine flu. at one point came within six April 13, was discharged over- trials at which the juries failed interest in the annual Independ- Ennis-based Desmond Houli- feet of a major forest. The fire, night. Cardinal Brady, 70, re- to agree a verdict. Thirty-Two Counties From Roscommon to Wicklow

(Continued from page 19) from Grange Curraghboy, and to descend to depths from ten country’s oldest festivals was friends. In accordance with his so this is an opportunity for all the proposal to erect a plaque in to forty metres with visibility revived on May Day when a wishes no collection was taken cyclists to experience motorway Kiltoom in memory of folklorist from three to fifteen metres, fire was lit on the Hill of Uis- up during the Mass, instead a conditions. Jim Delaney from Hodson Bay. and Barbara hopes to open up neach, between the villages of box was placed in the church Monaghan: A twelve-year- The latter, a member of the Irish a diving school at the centre at Ballymore and Loughanavally. containing envelopes for those old boy representing Corduff Folklore Commission, gathered some time in the future. Other fires were then lit on the who wished to give a gift to the Bowling Club has become the much information from Tom Tyrone: When church organ- summits of some twenty hills retiring priest. These were then youngest ever person to win Kelly and the plan to erect a ists Henrietta Byrne and Hilda in seventeen counties, and presented unopened to Father the All-Ireland National Junior plaque to his memory was made Irwin formed the Dungannon the organizers were looking to Lennon at a gathering after Singles title. Shane Hand first by Tom Harney of the Kiltoom Choral Society seventy-five complete the circle with a fire Mass in the community centre. became interested in bowling Heritage Group. Meanwhile years ago, they were in fact in each county. The festival was Wicklow: For the eleventh after listening to his father Willie Gacquin announced that reviving a society that had known as Bealtaine and this consecutive year the Bray Jazz Michael and his older brothers, a lecture will be delivered in originally been established at year’s event featured music from Festival will take place in the Jason and Niall, talking about memory of Tom Kelly by a mem- the beginning of the First World Kila, Sharon Shannon, Mundy, town over the May Bank Holi- the game, and he now practices ber of the Folklore Commission. War. To mark the anniversary and Jerry Fish. In addition to day weekend. The festival was his shots at every opportunity Sligo: The members of the the society staged a special con- music there were displays from described last year by All About including making use of the Markievicz Memorial Commit- cert last month in Dungannon artists and craftspeople, and a Jazz as “one of the very best corridor in their home. Shane tee in Sligo are campaigning Leisure Centre under conductor market village was set up on the small jazz festivals in Europe.” took the title on a scoreline of to have returned to the county Meta Bell MBE. In addition to shores of Lough Lugh for locally This year’s event will included a twenty shots to twelve, compet- the banner of Na Fianna scouts choir members, children from produced food and drink. tribute to gypsy guitarist Django ing against players up to three that was taken from the home of Dungannon Primary School Wexford: Last month a cel- Reinhardt to mark his cente- years older than himself, and no Countess Constance Markievicz and St Patrick’s Primary School ebration took place to mark the nary. Also featuring in the line- doubt his future ambitions now while she was in Kilmainham also took part. Composer and retirement of the parish priest of up are British guitarist John include a place on the national Jail after the Rising. The Impe- musician Ivan Black wrote a Marshallstown, Father Lennon. Etheridge, Austrian Wolfgang team. rial War Museum in London, special anniversary song based The celebrations also marked Muthspiel, and Wayne Krantz Offaly: Tony Cahill, though where the banner hangs at on Siegfried Sassoon’s poem the Golden Jubilee of his ordina- and his trio. Jazz musicians originally from Nenagh in Co. present, has offered to loan it Everyone Sang. tion to the priesthood. A special from Belgium, Britain, Holland, Tipperary, moved to Tullamore for exhibitions in Ireland but Waterford: Ambrose Con- Mass was concelebrated, with Italy, Luxembourg and Norway more than twenty years ago to the committee members want to greve CBE, of Mount Congreve Bishop Denis Brennan as chief will descend on Bray for the open up his jewelry shop on see it returned permanently. It in Kilmeaden, whose family celebrant, and the congregation event, while Solo Cissokho from Patrick Street and this year he was Countess Markievicz who have been based in the area comprised Father Lennon’s Senegal and the Trio Correntes has been elected as President founded Na Fianna scouts in since the eighteenth century, family members and his many from Brazil will also be in town. of the Retail Jewellers of Ire- 1909 and it is felt appropriate has just celebrated his 103d land; in 2008 he held the post that the banner should be in birthday. The last of his line, of vice-president. He has been Sligo in time for the centenary Ambrose has created world a member of the organization of the Rising. renowned gardens that are Ireland’s Weather ever since moving to Tullamore, Tipperary: The first inland home to the largest collection before which he worked in his dive centre in the country has of rhododendrons in Europe. He Reported Monday, April 26, 2010 parents’ jewelry business in his opened at one of the old quarries began his work on the gardens home town. To prepare himself in Portroe, used for a number at the age of eleven and his by Liam Ferrie for a career, he studied horology of years as an unofficial diving dedication has been rewarded at the Irish Swiss Institute in centre. The new centre has with the Veitch Memorial Medal It was another bright sunny week but it was only towards Blanchardstown College in been set up by diver Barbara from the Royal Horticultural the end that temperatures started to pick up a little. It was a Dublin. O’Driscoll from Nenagh, whose Society, and the medal for the cool 10C to 12C initially but had reached 16C before the week Roscommon: A folklorist grandfather, Barney O’Driscoll, “greatest garden in the world” was out. Nights were particularly cold for the time of year and and the man from whom he col- bought the quarry almost ninety from the Massachusetts Hor- it came close to falling to -4C in the east on Tuesday night. lected much of his material are years ago. Facilities include a ticultural Society. He has also The dry spell came to an end on Saturday and more rain will both the subject of honors, with concrete slipway, access and been conferred with an Honor- fall in the coming week. It will also be a good deal warmer. a talk from local historian Willie training platforms, a rescue ary Doctorate of Laws by Trinity Gacquin to mark the first an- boat, changing facilities, and a College Dublin. Latest Temperatures: Day 14C (57F)...... Night 8C (46F) niversary of the late Tom Kelly snack bar. Divers will be able Westmeath: One of the Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com May 2010 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 21 The Irish Language by Philip Mac AnGhabhann Celtic Now you can tell the time and ask when trains ross or other transport comes from or goes to some C places in Ireland. Since Irish has no native words for newly invented things, it has “borrowed” many ords words from English. You already know the words W for some modes of transport. Here they are plus some new ones, including places from which they The Irish arrive and leave. crosswords are Most of these are pronounced very closely to their English counterparts. You will have little a service of an trouble except to remember that adjectives, “descriptive” or “limiting” words, follow their Ireland-based noun in Irish. “Ticket Office” becomes “Office Ticket”. Plus you have to remember that “gas” website which does not mean “gasoline”. The word for “gasoline” is “petrol”, petril. provides Irish But, remember the “Genitive” rule – when two nouns are together the second limits or describes Family Coats of the first – and it must be in theGenitive Case. Note the spelling and sound change of “ticket” Arms by email. when it follows “office” or “machine.” You are invited “train” traein “train station” stáisiún to visit “ticket” ticéad /TICK-eht/ “ticket office” oifig ticéaid /OH-fik TIK-ehj/ www. “ticket machine” meaisín ticéaid /MUH-sheen TIK-ehj/ bigwood.com/ “car” carr “garage” garáiste /GAHR-ash-chuh/ heraldry “gasoline station” stáisiún petril “bus” bus “bus station” busáras /BUS-ah-ruhs/ “airplane” eitleán /ETCH-lahn/ ©-bigwood.com “airport” aerfort IRELAND IN CROSSWORDS Why does “airport” become aerfort? The Irish ACROSS Wye in South Wales. (7,5) language has very few “native” words beginning 1. Cake to start with, but no ham following on the way 10. Bear they beat rears up in Dublin entertainment or containing the sound /p/. Almost all are “bor- place burnt down in 1951 and reopened 1966. (5,7) rowed” from other languages, especially English back in Waterford fishing village where whales have due to the long contact with that language. been known to beach. (8) 13. In an informal way chartered accountant leads 4. Elk Ike disposed of in attractive Clare resort shel- Saul astray. (6) Some of the loan words have fallen into disuse tered from the Atlantic by the Duggerna Rocks. (6) 16. Disorderly M.C. able to issue instruction not to in English and a few Irish words are from English 9. Cut ham in pieces for she who wanted Oisín to stay panic. (2,4) phrases. Examples are Irish pluca “courage” from in Tir na nOg. (5) 17. This is made up of unsolicited circulars about milk, “pluck” – now only remembered by we old people 10. Mr. Baba seen in Donegal incident. (3) Juan. (4,4) -- and píosa /PEE-suh/ “piece of”. 11. Pins that sound like a scot back in Lusk categori- 18. Play a sneaky trick on a German night in one of You remember from the last lesson the verbal cally. (5) the Ireland’s four green fields. (8) phrases “to arrive” or “come from” ag teacht as 12. Get a rub of this old thing for luck in Tramore 19. Religious doctor outside the untidy room in Leitrim and “to leave for” ag fagail as or “depart for” ag licensed premises. (5) site of old ironworks on shores of Lough Bofin. (6) imigh as. You also learned the sentence structure 14. The two of them are in Drumshanbo, then. (4) 20. Fast musical makes rope tangle around the saint. (6) in which these phrases can be used. 15. “The —— things a man is ashamed of, the —— 24. Piece of computer information inclusively concealed respectable he is.” Shaw. (4) by Templemore establishment . (4) Beidh an traein ag fagail as an stáisiún a 27. “There’s no such thing as — publicity, except your trí a clog. 17. A jig can’t run around, but this will take you on a Literally: “Will the train be at leaving the sta- trip around the lakes of Killarney. (8,3) own obituary.” Brendan Behan (3) tion at three o’clock.” 21. Garden tool, one of those from Mallow? (4) Is: “The train will be leaving the station at 22. Young creature hidden in Ballinakill ambulance. (4) CROSSWORD SOLUTION ON PAGE 23 three o’clock.” 23. Fool will moor up facing north. (5) Bhí traein ag teacht as Baile Átha Luain 25. Dish of powdery boiled potatoes is insincere when leathuair chun a cúig ar mardin. mouthed. (5) “Was (a) train at arriving from Athlone half- 26. Sunshine lad! (3) Irish Sayings hour past five in morning.” 27. Arts graduate so Roman as to be fundamental. (5) Even a tin knocker will shine on a dirty door. “A train arrived from Athlone at half past five 28. Old men get confused as to the megalithic monu- Every patient is a doctor - after his cure. in the morning.” ment, with a fine example in Kilternan, Co. Dublin. (6) 29. The do far out in small East Galway town near “The Windy day is not a day for scallops (thatching).” The Republic of Ireland is part of the European Ross Abbey beside the Black River. (8) “People live in each other’s shelter.” Community so prices are given in Euros and cents “The world would not make a racehorse of a donkey.” (100 to the Euro). The “cents” can be either “cents” DOWN “You are not a fully fledged sailor unless you have or the earlier Irish pingin /PIN-guhn/ “penny”. 1. A burn can meander in sheltered Donegal resort on sailed under full sail,” “and you have not built a wall Recall the words for “half hour” leathuair //LEY- the shores of Lough Swilly under Slieve Snacht. (8) unless you have rounded a corner.” oor/ and “quarter” ceathrú /KAY-roo/. Leath 2. Len comes over with 26 across, almost. (6) “There is no strength without unity.” can be used to make many compound words such 3. Hurl off this tree? (3) as “half pint” where it is always “You must live with a person to know a person. If you leathphionta 5. I, to a confused Greek character, of little conse- prefixed. Ceathrú is not shown in written Irish want to know me come and live with me.” quence. (4) as a compound word but always goes before the “Praise the young and they will blossom” 6. Lose control and do this to the traces, that’s one noun, ceathrú Euro, “a quarter Euro” or “twenty- “The raggy colt often made a powerful horse.” five cents“ Northern Ireland still uses the pound point! (4,4) 7. Shifty eye, ask inside for small Sligo seaside resort “Age is honorable and youth is noble.” (punt) but went to the decimal system years ago “Youth does not mind where it sets its foot.” so there are one hundred pennies to the pound. near a number of dolmens and ring forts. (6) 8. Brain bent, yet wanders to Co. Wexford Cistercian “Both your friend and your enemy think you will Counting money is more of a problem. Many church near Clonmines, having a ruined twin on the never die.” columns ago we studied how to count objects in Irish. There is no need to count “one Euro” or “one ADVERTISEMENT penny”. The word by itself indicates “just one” Euro, punt or pingin. Above “one” the numbers “two to six” lenite (“aspirate”) the following object and the numbers “seven to ten” aspirate the following noun. Thus Photography by one has to say Trí phingin /tree FIN-guhn/ but ocht bpund /awkt BUNT/. The plural of “penny” is “pence” in Ireland With numbers above “ten” the noun must go Image Photo Service between the number and “teen”- ocht bpunt deug. The object being counted is always in the singular. It is as if you were saying, “three pound • Weddings • Anniversaries teen” for “thirteen pounds.” Pingin “a penny” • Banquets • Portraits Dhá phingin “two pennies” Trí phingin “three pennies” • Reunions Ceithre phingin “four pennies” Cúig phingin “five pennies” • Groups • Families Sé phingin “six pennies” Seacht bpingin “seven pennies” Ocht bpingin “eight pennies” • Special Occasions Naoi bpingin “nine pennies” Deich bpingin “ten pennies” ... (617) 291-6609 Cúig phingin déag “Fifteen cents” Since “Euro” begins with a vowel, no such pho- netic rules apply and one can say, Cúig Euro déag “Fifteen Euros” The official photographers of the Boston Irish Reporter Page 22 May 2010 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com

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Occasions of Sin: has compiled this further with women like June broadcasting (as Director selection of his articles. Levine and Mary Kenny, General of RTE), distilling Sex and Society Chosen from the columns then helped to found AIM, (as Managing Director in Modern Ireland written in the last year of the family support orga- of United Distillers) and By Diarmaid Ferriter his life, it is all the more nization, in 1972. AIM steel (as Chairman of Irish touching for knowing that campaigned for women’s Steel). He had also been the unique voice of this rights in family law, until closely involved with the gifted, gentle, and hugely then a very low prior- Federation of Irish Manu- intelligent man was about ity for successive govern- facturers and in the early to fall silent. This new col- ments, and achieved radi- days of the Industrial lection is a worthy succes- cal changes. Fennell was Authority. Regardless of sor to The Book of Weather later involved in Women’s the industry involved, Eye. It will delight all who Aid and in setting up the regardless of whether welcomed that collection, family mediation service the business was state- which prompted the fol- when she served as a owned or family domi- lowing short letter to the junior minister in Gar- nated, whether centuries Irish Times from Senator ret Fitzgerald’s coalition old or just starting out, he Feargal Quinn: ‘Madam, government 1982-1987. approached each role with What a joy to see the late novels in the Classics Her remarkable achieve- York, and Boston in North the same all-consuming Brendan McWilliams in imprint of the New York ments, as a woman inside America, Dunne has trav- drive, pragmatism, and his once accustomed spot Review of Books. and outside politics, are elled around the globe to desire to be successful. in Monday’s edition, and Many of these selected a lasting legacy to Irish- meet the people who work He was international a delight to read his ar- letters are written to women and Irishmen of to- tirelessly to promote and and global in his outlook, Using a huge variety of ticle on Madame Bovary. women whom Jim Far- day. Fennell died on Aug. maintain Gaelic Games on before most others in sources, Occasions of Sin I look forward to buying rell loved and whom he 11, 2009. She completed the international scene. Irish business became charts the Irish sexual ex- The Book of Weather inadvertently hurt. His this memoir, a testament Containing all you ever so, and he was a pioneer perience over the course of Eye this week.’ ‘If few ambition to be a great to her public-spirited life’s wanted to know about in advocating the critical the 20th century. In tack- popular writers succeed writer in an age of mini- work, a few weeks before the GAA and its popular- importance of marketing, ling the public and private in carving such a niche for mal author’s earnings her death. Her husband ity abroad, this book is a advertising, and brand worlds of Irish sex, this themselves that they be- ruled out the expense of Brian reflects on Nuala’s colorful and entertaining awareness as well as the book is groundbreaking in come irreplaceable, then marriage and fatherhood, life and achievements in insight into the life of the imperative of seeking out its scope and ambition. In Brendan McWilliams so self-sufficiency was his the epilogue of this book. export markets. this book, Ferriter covers modern, and not so mod- was surely the exception. answer. Books Ireland has ern, Irish emigrant. such subjects as abortion, His daily Weather Eye astutely portrayed him pregnancy, celibacy, con- column, which ran in The as “a mystery wrapped traception, censorship, in- Irish Times for almost in an enigma, a man who My Dear fanticide, homosexuality, twenty years, conveyed wanted solitude and yet (Kevin) McCourt prostitution, marriage, eloquently the popular did not want it, wanted By Eugene McCague popular culture, social life aspects of meteorology, love but feared commit- Kevin McCourt can fair- and the various hidden climate, astronomy and ment, reached out again ly be described as one of Irelands associated with the environment. Easy and again but, possibly the first truly professional sexual abuse -- all in the to digest and sprinkled through fear of rejection, managers in Irish busi- context of a conservative lightly with literature, was always the first to cut ness and as one of its most official morality backed history, folklore and mis- the cord.” But Farrell’s distinguished leaders. No by the Catholic Church chievous humour, it was kindness, deft humor, one else in Irish business and by legislation. The often the first article to and gift for friendship could point to a career at book energetically and which readers turned reached across rejection, the top, spanning over four originally engages with each morning.’ which must account for decades, and incorporat- subjects omitted from the why so many such letters ing such diverse industries mainstream historical were kept. as tobacco, (as marketing narrative. The breadth J.G. Farrell Funny, teasing, anxious director of P.J.Carroll), of this book and the rich- in His Own Words: and ambitious, these ness of the source material Lavinia Graecen, previously unpublished uncovered make it defini- Editor tive in its field and a most letters to a wide range of Around the World The novelist J.G. Far- friends give the reader remarkable work of social rell – known to his friends in GAA Days history. a glimpse of this private as Jim – was drowned on man. Ranging from child- By Aaron Dunne Aug. 11, 1979, when he hood to the day before From its humble begin- Weather Eye: was swept off rocks by a his death, Farrell’s dis- nings in the lobby of a sudden storm while fish- tinctive letters have the Thurles hotel in the late The Final Years nineteenth century, the By Brendan ing in the West of Ireland. impact of autobiography. He was in his early forties. GAA has grown to become McWilliams the biggest amateur sport- Following the great “Had he not sadly died so young,” remarked Salman Nuala Fennell: ing organization in the response to The Book of Political Woman world, spreading its wings Weather Eye in 2008, Anne Rushdie in 2008, “there is no question that he would – A Memoir to all corners of the globe McWilliams, wife of the in the process. In Around late Brendan McWilliams, today be one of the really Nuala Fennel was a major novelists of the Eng- leading Irish economist the World in GAA Days, lish language. The three and Fine Gael politician. Aaron Dunne takes us on a novels that he did leave She campaigned vigor- journey around the world, are all in their different ously for women’s rights documenting the spec- way extraordinary.” through the 1970s. She tacular rise of Ireland’s The Siege of Krish- became an Irish Minister national games. From the “Serving Greater Boston since 1971” napur, the second of of State in 1982. Political Gulf Games of the Dubai Celts in the Middle East Farrell’s Empire Trilogy, Woman tells the story of 1060 N. MaiN St., RaNdolph, Ma 02368 won the Booker Prize in young middle-class moth- to the development of un- 1973, and it was selected er of three who from her derage hurling in Singa- phone: 781-963-3660 pore, from the week-long as one of only six previous home in suburban south fax: 781-986-8004 winners to compete in the Dublin became part of a Australian State Games 2008 international “Best movement that changed to the rebirth of camogie www.miltonmonuments.com of Booker” competition. Ireland’s social and leg- Down Under, and from email: [email protected] The strength of American islative landscape forever. the annual Canadian interest in Farrell’s books Fennell first became in- Gaelic Games festival is underlined by the inclu- volved in the Women’s to the powerhouse GAA PUZZLE SOLUTION FROM PAGE 21 sion of all three Trilogy Liberation Movement cities of Chicago, New 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 May 2010 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com

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