sign in sign up
<<
Home , Al Barr, Boston Irish Wolfhounds, Damien Rice, Dropkick, Dropkick Murphys, James Lynch (musician)

November 2007 VOL. 18 #11 $1.50 ’s hometown journal of Irish culture.

Worldwide at

bostonirish.com All contents copyright © 2007 Boston Neighborhood News, Inc. Hanging Out With The

The Dropkick Murphys at rest: From left, (vocals); (drums, backing vocals); Marc Orrell (guitar, , piano, backing vocals); (vocals, bass guitar); Scruffy Wallace (); (mandolin, accordion, , , , acoustic guitar); (gui- tar, backing vocals). Photo by Bob Perachio, BDP Photography

By Susan Gedutis Lindsay ‘One school of thought would think that what we do kind of Special to the BIR Sunday, Sept. 30, outside bastardizes Irish music. But we are also very respectful of Avalon on Landsdowne Street, the roots and wear our influences on our sleeves.’ beside a thick line of 20-some- things waiting for doors to open -- Ken Casey, headman, the Dropkick Murphys to see the Dropkick Murphys— the hottest band in a line of Irish rock bands whose appeal has “Excuse me, but what are the Meanest of Times. Then I talked crossed over to a wider audi- Dropkick Murphys?” “Irish to Ken Casey, the band’s lead ence. The Red Sox were in the punk?” I shrugged. Truth was, singer and founder. And I get process of losing to the Twins I didn’t really know and that’s it now. If you run into that guy over the big green wall behind why I was here. The live show in the anorak, tell him I have us. A man in a tourist-yellow was my introduction—but then the scoop. anorak stopped me and asked, I listened to the new album, The (Continued on page 14) INSIDE Ronan Noone IIC Stalwart on ‘Brendan,’ Gobnait Conneely His New Play Profile, Page 4 ‘No matter what, America is still a refuge and a place of Gearing Up opportunity for people all over the world. It still represents for ‘Christmas hope, something better. In Celtic Sojourn’ Brendan, one of the characters talks about what it is to be an Page 15 American, and it is something Ken Casey Exults of a emotional discourse on genuine American virtues Things to Be With Jon and Mike – tempered by reality. Those Thankful For Ken Casey celebrates on the grass with Mike values are still real.’ Timlin and Jonathan Papelbon after the Red Sox clinched the Ceol, Page 14 American League pennant in Game 7 against Cleveland. An Interview, Page 14 interview with Casey is on Page 14. Photo by Bill Brett. Page  November 2007 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com

David Greaney, President We Congratulate the 2007 Solas Recipients

2007 SOLAS RECIPIENTS Rev. Msgr. Thomas J. McDonnell Gerard and Marilyn Doherty

APPRECIATION AWARD WINNERS Richard Iandolini, President Alan Pampanin Rebecca C. Minahan Iandolini & Associates Pampanin Law Offices Law Office of Rebecca C. Minahan Jane Chiang, Partner John Quill, Associate Joshua Paulin Sedna Law Seyfarth Shaw Law Office of Joshua Daley Paulin Chris Lavery, Partner Denis Fleming, Associate Eoin Reilly, Associate Sedna Law Cammarano & Associates Iandolini & Associates Synergy 115 Broad Street, 4th Floor, Boston, MA 02110 Tel: 617-204-9506 Fax: 617-204-9508

GLOBAL COMMUNITY: SOLAS OUR AWARDS DINNER COMMUNITY 7:00 pm Friday, November 9 Westin Copley Hotel, Boston

a night of inspiration & entertainment to benefit IIC

honoring Gerard & Marilyn Doherty, the Rev. Msgr. Thomas J. McDonnell, and IIC’s pro bono attorneys for their service to the immigrant community

All are invited! Tickets are $150 each and support IIC. Call (617) 542-7654 x 26 or visit www.iicenter.org for more info or to book tickets or make a donation online.

Solas’07 Irish Immigration Center Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com November 2007 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page  ON THE TOWN WITH THE BIR

reviews from Boston ranked it as one of the most unique and enthralling performances to happen at Symphony Hall. They returned this past February to much the same response. Boston City Councilor Michael Flaherty so enjoyed the concert he has become an ambassador for the group and this sum- mer he made his debut playing the violin in front of a fundraising reception for the orchestra. To date CBOI has performed in five countries, and has tours scheduled through 2011, including a concert that year in . When they arrive in Boston the orchestra will be joined by nearly 500 Boston-area youths who have formed the Cross Border Choir Boston. Ten schools from the area have pitched in with children and assistance to prepare for this unique event. They will be joined by a variety of talents from here and across the pond, including world-class tenor and one of Ireland’s best known voices, Emmanuel Lawler. The IBEW 103rd Pipe Band, and Tatum Harvey, the recently crowned Boston’s 2007 Shamrock Idol, will also make appearances on stage. The performance at Symphony Hall is the last stop on the CBOI tour, which also included sessions in , Milwaukee, and Chicago, and participation by more than 3,000 choir students in total. Jean McKenna O’Donnell, (above), whose jazz The Holy Ghost Fathers will be holding their 23rd vocals have entertained several generations of enthu- annual Benefit Dance at the Irish Social Club in siasts, especially at venues from Boston to Providence West Roxbury, on November 2. Hosted by Father and her hometown of Woonsocket, has finally assured Peter Nolan, the organizer of the original event in that her work will have staying power; she is issu- 1985, the event will feature the Andy Healey Band ing an album – her first – this month. “Full Circle,” for live entertainment and dance. Father Nolan is a selection of songs she chose, features her smooth the pastor of Most Precious Blood in Hyde Park and vocals backed on piano by Mike Renzi, on clarinet has been raising money for the Holy Ghost Fathers to continue their extensive work in Africa, South Marianne Bolger, Ireland Vice Consul in Boston, and sax by Dick Johnson, on bass by Marshall greets Lorraine Christian, Press and Information Wood, and on guitar by Jon Wheatley. Jean will host America, and other impoverished regions of the world. The dance has raised half a million dollars in its 23 Officer, Consulate General of Ireland in New an album release party with the quartet at Chan’s York. Restaurant Jazz Room, 267 Main St., Woonsocket years, and this year will look to add to the impres- on Thurs., Nov. 8, from 8 to 11 p.m. Admission for sive total. Father Nolan himself served for 17 years of Ulster, O’Loan has come under fire in the past the fete and the performance is $15. There is a nice in West Africa – Nigeria and Ghana – after leaving from the likes of Ian Paisley, but she has also been symmetry to Jean’s choice of venue for her album’s his hometown of Dublin. Since then he has been at praised for her work, particularly for the way her debut: It was 30 years ago, in 1977, that she stepped St. Theresa in West Roxbury, Most Precious Blood, office reported this past January on collusion between to the microphone at Chan’s, the first jazz singer in and as an administrator to St. Pius X in Milton as police and loyalist paramilitary organizations. the three-decade-long concert series John Chan has Milton consolidated parishes. Lorraine Christian, an official in Ireland’s De- presented at his restaurant. Music, as they says, runs Last month saw the appearance in Boston of Nuala partment of Foreign Affairs, has been named Press in her family. Jean’s brother, Dave McKenna, is a O’Loan, the Police Ombudsman for Northern Ire- and Information Officer at the Consulate General legendary jazz pianist (“I play saloon piano,” he says) land, who spoke at an Irish American Partnership of Ireland’s office in City. It is the first whose impressive resume stretches back into the big luncheon. Her role is to deal with complaints about assignment in the United States for Ms. Christian, band era when he played with the likes of Woody policing as an independent voice for the people of who was recently married and spent part of her Herman and Bobby Hackett. And for years, he was Northern Ireland. A lecturer on law at the University honeymoon on a trip to the western United States the pianist in residence at the Copley Plaza Hotel before taking up her new role. The new press spokes- in Boston. Jean salutes her older brother, now 77 person made a trip to Boston in September, where and retired from playing, on “Full Circle” with her The new American Am- she was greeted by Irish Vice Consul Marianne rendition of his composition “Shadowland.” bassador from Ireland Bolger. The two visited with local Irish community On Sat., Nov. 3, six score and more children from to the United States, Mi- leaders and media representatives during her brief chael Collins, will make Ireland will take the stage at Boston Symphony his first visit to Boston visit to Boston. Hall to spread the message of the Cross Borders this month, appearing The British Irish Graduates in America organi- Orchestra Ireland. Some 130 young Irish, ages at the American Ireland zation will be hosting its third annual Ball on Nov. 9 12-14, from the border counties of the North and Fund Dinner Gala on at the Seaport Hotel. The event is an opportunity for South make up the Orchestra. They come from all November 15 as well as those alumni of any university of or Ireland walks of life and religions. Founded in 1995, the meeting with various to come together based on their shared educational Cross Borders Orchestra ensemble makes an effort other community lead- pasts. The British Irish Graduates in America was at helping to unite the once tumultuous region by ers and locals. Collins founded in 2005, and has been working to bring explaining to its youngest residents the necessity of took over as Ambassador together people here the same way many American putting aside the sectarian pasts of their homeland in September, taking universities do for their own alumni. There is no and working together, in this case to make music. residency in Washing- membership but only offers for connections and vari- They are directed by Gearóid Grant, a leader in ton D.C. He will meet ous events throughout the year. This year the Ball youth-conducting in Europe. The CBOI first came with Boston’s Consul will also be the launch of the National University of to Boston and New York in 2005 as part of a tour General of Ireland David Ireland, Galway’s, Alumni chapter for that garnered them international attention. The Barry when he comes to anyone who attended NUIG. Tickets for the event are Boston. $96 and can be purchased at biginamerica.net. 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.

Nov. 1 – Author Colum McCann reads from his film parties. Some past “Excellence” recipients include Nov. 11 – Irish Dinner Dance at Concannon’s recent work at 7:30 p.m. at Connolly House, Boston Gabriel Byrne and Brendan Gleeson. Acclaimed Village, 60 Lenox Street, Norwood, to benefit the College, 300 Hammond Street, Chestnut Hill. actor Aidan Quinn is this year’s Excellence Award Boston chapter of Comhaltas Ceoltoiri Eireann (Irish Nov. 2 – The 23rd Annual Fathers of the Holy Honoree. Mr. Quinn will be present at the event for Musicians Association). Music by Fintan Stanley and Ghost Benefit Dance at the Irish Social Club in West a special ceremony and career retrospective held in Comhaltas musicians. More info at 781-899-0911. Roxbury. (See note above for more details). his honor. For more information, call 617-713-0831 Nov. 15 – The American Ireland Fund’s 26th An- Nov. 3 – Cross Borders Orchestra Ireland performs or visit irishfilmfestival.com. nual Boston Dinner Gala at the Boston Marriot Cop- with the Cross Borders Choir Boston at Symphony Hall Nov. 9 -- The Irish Immigration Center’s annual ley Hotel. A black tie dinner to benefit the American Boston. Over 630 children will appear on Symphony Solas Award Dinner, honoring Gerard and Marilyn Ireland Fund, tickets and more information can be Hall stage for a night of music and culture sharing. Doherty, Rev. Msgr. Thomas J. McDonnell, and the found at www.irlfunds.org/aif/boston/. (See note above for more details.) Tickets available IIC’s pro-bono immigration lawyers. At the Westin Nov. 16 – Richard Marsh, famed Irish storyteller, at bso.org. Copley Hotel, Boston. The MC is William Bulger, shares the best of Ireland’s folklore at the Irish Cultural Nov. 7 – A Family Christmas by Caroline Kennedy with Mayor Thomas Menino as an honorary chair. Centre at 8 p.m. Tickets are $12 ($10 for members). at the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library. Caro- Tickets are $150. Call 617-542-7654, Ext. 26, or online For more information contact Mary Choppa at 603- line Kennedy signs copies of her new book A Family iicenter.org. … The British Irish Graduates of America 883-4820 or at [email protected]. … Gallery Christmas, in which she shares the Christmas poetry, Ball at the Seaport Hotel, to work at uniting alumni Art Show Opening at Lorica Artworks, 90 Main Street, prose, scriptural readings, and lyrics most dear to from all any British or Irish university. Tickets are Andover. Show opens with a reception and live enter- her. The book includes personal treasures from her $96 and can be found at biginamerica.net. (See note tainment by the Ceili Band from 6 to 9 p.m. A group own family, including her Christmas List to Santa above for details) show exhibiting classically inspired original artwork Claus written as a child, and a letter from her father Nov. 10 – Ancient Order of Hibernians in America’s by Irish and American artists. Call 978-470-1829 or as President to a child concerned about Santa’s well- National President’s Dinner at the Martin Center, visit loricaartworks.com for details. being. 2 p.m. For more information, call 617-514-1600 , Easton. Jack Meehan of Quincy, Nov. 18, 2 p.m. – AOH Lecture Series at Doyle’s or visit jfklibrary.org. national president of the AOH, will be honored at Café, 3484 Washington Street, Jamaica Plain. Profes- Nov. 8-11 – The Ninth Annual Magners Irish Film this event for his leadership in Irish-American affairs. sor William Mathews, University of Massachusetts Festival in Harvard Square. The largest event of its David R. Burke of Lawrence will be the 2007 Recipient at Amherst, presents an hour-long lecture on “Easter kind in the United States, the Magners Irish Film Fes- of the Sean MacBride Humanitarian Award. Tickets 1916: The Heart of the Irish Revolution.” The lecture tival features the very best of contemporary Irish film are $45, cocktails start at 6, dinner at 7. Visit aoh.com series is hosted by the James Michael Curley Division with an array of US premieres, guest filmmakers, and or call Richard MacDonald at 781-455-0677. #1, Ancient Order of Hibernians. Page  November 2007 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com BIR Profile Gobnait Conneely, Immigrants’ Champion in Boston, Knows Whereof She Speaks, and She Follows Through

By Greg O’Brien “They were strict parents,” says Con- Special to the BIR neely, who inherited her mother’s great The Statue of Liberty’s salutation caring and tolerance for others. “We lived at the mouth of New York Harbor to a simple life in Galway. We didn’t run the tired, the poor, and the “huddled wild or ragged. You got up, went to school, masses yearning to breathe free” is the and came home. My parents knew where foundation stone of the Irish Immigra- we were every minute of the day.” tion Center on Temple Place in Boston, Conneely is still close to her brother, and no one knows this firsthand better Anthony, who owns a cab in Galway, than Gobnait Conneely. She has felt the and her sister Sheila (Farragher), a pain and empathizes with the plight of hairdresser in Dublin. Her sister, in immigrants, who today face a far more fact, visited Boston last month to watch divided country on the issue of immigra- Conneely receive the Charitable Irish tion than when the first boats landed on Society’s Silver Key Award for cultivat- Ellis Island in 1892—the start of the ing a “spirit of unity and harmony” in “greatest tide of incoming humanity in Boston and for advocating the social and the nation’s history,” as the Ellis Island moral interests of the Irish and their Immigration Museum calls it. In the cultural heritage. immigration depot’s 62-year history, Bent on self-improvement, when she nearly twelve million landed on Ellis in first came to Boston, Conneely took their search of freedom of speech and courses in business and accounting at religion, and for economic opportunity. Bunker Hill Community College and Now in the wake of recent heated debate took hospitality courses at Northeastern. over immigration—and the scrapping She is still working on her degree. Before of the Kennedy-McCain bill, the Secure joining the Irish Immigration Center, America and Orderly Immigration Act, she worked for 20 years for a property which proposed stricter border enforce- management company in Mission Hill ment and a new visa category for alien and as an information specialist with workers performing jobs not covered in the Boston Housing Authority. existing categories—many in high-pro- Conneely, who is single, has always file ways are calling for even tougher been one to move forward in her life, measures to restrict immigration, and but an incident three years ago stopped that doesn’t sit well with Conneely, an her short in her tracks—the discovery immigrant herself. in October 2004 of a lump in her breast A Galway native who came to Boston that was diagnosed as cancer, and led to in 1980 when she was 21, Conneely is a 36-month fight against the disease and community outreach manager of the a double mastectomy. “It was extremely Irish Immigration Center (IIC) and traumatic, it was devastating news,” she former president of its board. Her job, recalls with the horror she felt when the in concert with others at the IIC, is to lump was discovered. “My first thought assist immigrants not only from Ireland, was how to keep this from my family; I but from 100 countries, working to make didn’t want them to worry.” our nation’s immigration laws consistent A woman of strong faith, close friends with the promise of the Statue of Liberty. and an abiding family, she drew strength The IIC provides legal advice, informa- from those she loves. “One has to make tion, advocacy, referrals and support for a decision on how you want to move immigrants on issues relating to immi- forward with news like this,” she says. gration, employment, citizenship, hous- “I felt it was important for me to be ing, and social services. In addition, the strong, and to try to inspire strength center is committed to “building bridges GOBNAIT CONNEELY: A storehouse of empathy at the Irish Immigration in others.” Center. of understanding and cooperation across Conneely’s treatment necessitated a cultures, fighting racism and discrimi- these undocumented workers are Irish, understanding after her visa had lapsed strong dose of chemotherapy, along with nation, advocating for the rights of all and an estimated five-to-ten thousand after two and a half years in Boston. “You the prospects of losing her shoulder- immigrants and working in collaboration of them live in the Boston area. To say can’t blame everything on youth,” she length brown hair, always impeccably with other organizations.” Conneely has her hands full at work is says with candor. “It just happened and groomed. “Gobnait’s response, say those So any talk of closing the borders gets to say that Mother Teresa had a busy it was a mistake. I was an undocumented who know her, was in keeping with her Conneely’s Irish up. “People have their schedule. worker, and I was paralyzed by the fact character: courageous, generous and opinions and are entitled to voice them, There has been much angst in recent that if I sought the help I needed, I would good-natured,” noted the Irish Emigrant but immigration is what made this years in the Boston Irish community be thrown out of this country, a place I Online in a report on her cancer. “She country as great as it is,” she says in an over the status of undocumented work- loved and felt called to be.” decided that if she must lose her hair, interview in her West Roxbury home, ers and those who fear their visas will So for the next ten years, Conneely she would tackle the traumatic event on sipping a cup of tea. “I disagree with run out with no hope of renewal. “Lots lived a life of “good behavior,” looking her own spirited terms—and it would those who would simply toss immigrants of depression,” says Conneely. “These over her shoulder with the stinging real- benefit a good cause.” without any efforts on their behalf to people feel like they have absolutely no ity that she could never go home to visit So Conneely declared a “bad hair day,” secure visas or citizenship. These are the control over their lives, that they always her parents, sister and brother. “It was and “Gob’s Bad Hair Day Fundraiser” people who throughout history have been have to look over their shoulder to avoid a staggering existence.” raised thousands of dollars in the fight the backbone of this country.” detection. Some of these folks are afraid to Hope springs eternal for those who against cancer and for Irish immigrant She pauses for a minute, choosing the come near people like me, who are trying believe, and Conneely never gave up causes when her locks were cut at Phil’s right words, then adds with a smile, “We to help them—thinking, God forbid, if I faith that the issue would be resolved one Hair Salon in Brighton. immigrants are not all that bad!” know something about them. My job is to day. In 1996, she applied for a Donnelly “I was trying to make something good But these are tough times, she assist them in a humane way. It’s a tough Visa, under the sponsorship of the then out of something bad,” she notes with concedes, for undocumented workers job, and no one promised me it would be congressman from Dorchester, Brian characteristic sanguinity. The optimism that number an estimated 12 million easy, but these are human beings and Donnelly, acknowledging her illegal alien continues. Two months ago, she was nationally—ironically the number of need to be treated as such.” status and returned home with the hopes declared cancer free. immigrants processed generations ago There was a time many years ago when the visa would be granted. It was issued “My focus now is on early detection, through Ellis Island. Close to 30,000 of Conneely herself reached out for such a month later, and she returned trium- regular screening for all sorts of potential phantly to Boston with the assurance cancers and diseases. I want to bring this of being able to visit Ireland as often as awareness to the Irish immigrant com- she wanted. Ultimately she applied for munity,” she says, noting free screening and received U.S. citizenship, “one of the clinics at the IIC. proudest moments” of her life. At mid-life, and with still plenty of life The County Donegal Association, Boston One of the most bittersweet moments, left in her, Conneely is looking forward however, was the reunion with her fam- to new challenges, new ways of helping 99th Annual Reunion & Banquet ily after a decade. It was as if Conneely people. “Every day is a blessing,” she had been asleep for ten years. “My says. “I don’t take things for granted Saturday, November 3, 2007, 7:00 p.m. parents were much older, my sister had now, particularly time. My goal is to stay married, the country had changed,” she healthy and be happy with whatever Florian Hall says, recalling the encounter. “It was path I choose. Life changes on a regu- 55 Hallet St., Dorchester mind boggling!” lar basis, and one never knows where Was it worth the pain of being away they’re going.” Family Style Roast Beef Dinner from family for ten years? “No,” admits That may be true, but there is great Conneely, “looking back, no. But I felt peace in where Gobnait Connelly has Entertainment by Erin’s Melody that way at the time, and wouldn’t have been, always following her passions and with Margaret Dalton done what I did unless I felt driven to assisting others walk through their pain. You can see the confidence—the courage Tickets $35.00 per person be here.” Conneely’s family ties are tight. Her de- and the grit—in the smile that breaks Please join us for an enjoyable evening of entertainment and fun. ceased father, Michael, was a fisherman across her Irish face. Hope to see you all there! from the Aran Islands, an impressive land Greg O’Brien is editor and president of of awesome cliffs, labyrinths of limestone, Stony Brook Group, a publishing and po- For tickets and info: meandering walls, patchwork fields and litical/strategy company based in Brew- President Michael McCarron, 617-696-1702 or some of the best fishing on Galway Bay. ster. The author/editor of several books, Chairman Tom Gallagher, 781- 444-5720 A strict, disciplined man, in his own way, he is a regular contributor to regional he was a metal worker in his later years. newspapers and magazines, a political Or any member of the County Donegal Association Conneely’s mother, Sheila, who still lives columnist Metro newspaper, in the family home in Galway, comes from and a contributor to New York Metro, a Cork family of farmers. Philadelphia Metro and the Op-Ed pages of The Providence Journal. Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com November 2007 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page  Boston Irish Reporter’s Here & There

By Bill O’Donnell the Kennedy administration documents tainty, Ireland’s national theatre, the companies each product and if in doubt, Shannon Remains Key US Transit making them eventually available on Abbey, will have a new home in Dublin’s call customer service and ask to speak Point -- It will come as little surprise the library website for public access. docklands. A move from the Abbey’s with a supervisor. It’s your money. to Irish neutrality supporters there and Over 45 million photographs, videos, current home on Lower Abbey Street is THE HOME FRONT here that more than one million US film, manuscripts and other material now a certainty. A 13-member jury will • “The people of the country are en- military personnel have passed through in the collection will be organized and select the design for the new building on titled to see democracy in action.” That Shannon Airport since the US invaded catalogued. This project will be the first George’s Dock near the Liffey and the quote from opposition leader Iraq in March of its kind and scope in the nation’s Sean O’Casey bridge. The new complex, Enda Kenny was a call to arms for the 2003. That presidential libraries. Anniversaries completion date as yet unknown, will Irish government to install TV in the Dail figures out to related to President Kennedy continue include three theatres, rehearsal space, and televise legislative proceedings so an average of to pile up as the years pass. Last month shops, bars, restaurants, a cinema, and the people of Ireland (at least those who 640 troops on marked 28 years since the official open- a lecture hall. pay their TV license fees) can see the lads five flights a ing of the Kennedy Library & Museum; Portadown, a Cautionary Note -- (mostly) in action. It sounds to this cynic day that have next month will mark the 44th year The town of Portadown, a predominantly like an idea whose time has come —and stopped at Ire- since JFK’s assassination in , and Protestant seaside community on the gone. In my lifetime? Unity first! land’s western this year, 2007, we remember President North’s Causeway Coast, has been the • Beware of Dublin Airport for the next entry point on Kennedy’s 90th birthday. scene recently of ugly anti-Catholic at- several years or longer. Construction on their way to Christy Brown’s Birthday Re- tacks that, when coupled with its history Terminal Two at the airport began early Iraq and other called -- Born in working class Kimage of anti-Catholic sentiment stretching in October and the project, T2, costing Mideast mili- in inner city Dublin in the summer of back into the heart of the Troubles, at least $500 million, is slated to open in Bill O’Donnell tary bases, 1932, the “My Left Foot” author, poet, suggest to this visitor a place that I April 2010. Officials have announced that according to and painter Christy Brown would have bypass on visits northward. I love the internal roads at Dublin Airport will be the Irish Times. It has been a tenet of celebrated his 75th birthday this year. To scenic beauty of the coastline and have “reconfigured.” Go West, travelers. faith for Bertie Ahern and his coalition mark the occasion a British writer with enjoyed stays in Ballycastle, Bushmills, • The number of homeless in Ireland government that Shannon access for Irish ties, Georginia Hambleton, has and Portstewart, but one quick visit to has nearly doubled in the past 16 years, US troops should continue unimpeded written the first full scale biography of Portadown was enough for me. The lat- despite increased spending and related despite broad opposition to the the extraordinary Brown, who overcame est complaint charges members of the private social welfare activities. Focus by the Irish people and the reduced but severe cerebral palsy to write novels and Northern police (PSNI) with not inter- Ireland, a homeless advocacy group, still formidable numbers of advocates of poetry and to paint and to entertain vening in a vicious public mob attack on is looking to the government to spend Irish sovereignty who want American thousands on RTE’s Late Show. The three Catholic men in the town center. $2.7 billion to create 10,000 new hous- military off the island period. biography is due out in Ireland and One of the most notorious incidents in ing units. These opponents of transiting US Britain this month. the past involved the controversial death • The Irish government has just au- troops through Shannon point to the Although I spent considerable time via of Robert Hamill a decade ago under thorized 350 Irish troops to assist Darfur yearly revenues of nearly $10 million e-mail exchanges and lengthy phone calls similar circumstances. refugees as they flee to Chad and the derived from the flights, but there is between here and Dublin and London While eschewing Fox’s phony “Fair & Central African Republic from the Darfur no reason to believe that a prosperous with the author, I have yet to read a word Balances” assertions, it still seems ap- genocide. The Irish experience in Africa Ireland would be doing it for the money. of the book, nor have I seen a review. propriate to note that there are a number is a long and noble one with past service Rather Bertie, a staunch ally of the US Meantime, the following quotes from of complaints of arson attacks and other there from the Congo to Somalia and the with its 40 million plus Irish here, is letters to me from Christy, I thought, organized vandalism against Orange Western Sahara. In late summer the paying his dues; he cannot send Irish might offer readers a glimpse into the Order halls across the North. The latest Dublin government increased its fund- troops to Iraq and politically wouldn’t soul and spirit of one of the most remark- figures from news reports and usually ing for HIV/AIDS treatment programs want to even if he could, but the Irish able men Ireland has ever produced. reliable Unionist sources allege attacks to $135 million. leader can provide a valued convenience The following quotes are from Christy’s on 43 Orange Order buildings, nearly all • Latest word from the Vatican rumor to the US war effort that strengthens the letters that are part of an ongoing ex- of which are unsolved to date mill is that Pope Benedict could visit Irish-American ties at minimal cost to change of correspondence we had in the Gil Sullivan Gift Aids BC Irish Ireland in April. If he comes he could his political base. 1970s on subjects as diverse as painting, Studies -- One of my favorite people and visit the North as well as the Republic. The British Do It Again -- A poll mortality, writing and critics. a mainstay for years of the Boston Irish Archbishop Sean Brady, the Irish asked British comedy fans to choose the “Some people have the quaint idea community, Gil Sullivan, has made a $1 Primate, was recently given his red hat top British wits of all time and voters that painting is a form of relaxation ...for million gift to the Irish Studies Program and some feel that recognition of him and came up with a listing led, unsurpris- me it is sheer physical strain and ordeal at . A 1966 graduate of the resolution of the peace process in the ingly, by two non-Brits, Irishmen Oscar with hardly any thought involved and BC, Sullivan recently sold his packaging North augur well for a visit to both areas. Wilde and Spike Milligan. Everyone it is this element more than any other goods company and decided to make the Pope John Paul II came to Ireland in knows of Wilde but few on this side of the that frustrates and bores me... all that generous gift because, as he says, “I feel 1979 but did not travel North. Atlantic are aware of Milligan, who died mindless dabbing on and off of paint... compelled to give back because I have • The death rate from heart disease in five years ago after a lengthy lifetime as a feeling at the end of it all unsatisfied and gotten so much.” Gil who has never for- Ireland has been cut in half since 1985. comedian, poet, writer, and outrageously futile and wanting wildly to get back to gotten BC or BC High or his Irish roots This, doctors admit, is as much due creative blithe spirit. Milligan, irrever- my typewriter.” in Dorchester has over the years been to advanced drugs as it is to life style ent to the end, was a friend of Prince “I always thought that the melancholy a quiet mover and shaker. He helped changes, which move slowly in Ireland as Charlie but was no respecter of things Gael syndrome was nothing but an me on worthy causes on a number of elsewhere. However, the number of Irish British, even royal friends. On a national Anglo-Saxon myth romanticized to the occasions, with charitable fund raising smokers has substantially decreased, but television show after receiving a lifetime point of music hall banality, but now I’m events, with Boston Ireland Ventures, this has been partially neutralized by achievement award, he read a telegram not so sure.” ...” I want to live till I am etc. He was also for a time the leader of increases in diabetes and obesity. from Prince Charles congratulating him unbelievably old but not senile. I want BC’s Irish Studies Advisory Committee. No Chip Off The Old Block -- When “Oh, the sniveling groveling bastard,” to be one up on Methuselah or even, God I did a stint on the panel as one way of the late Brian Lehihan, Sr. was deputy Milligan commented. The next day he bless the mark, de Valera.” staying close to the wit and wisdom of and a long-time Fianna Fail faxed the prince. “I suppose a knighthood “Writing is a highly ludicrous and Squire Sullivan. government minister, he represented the is out of the question then?” And later derisable business when it is not being Gil Sullivan: One of our community’s humane wing of Irish . He came Milligan opined that the heir eternal, ghoulishly agonizing...Maybe it is better quiet heroes. to the states open and listening, visiting on having the crown placed on his head, to travel than to arrive which implies a Catalogs Create Confusion -- In Irish consular outposts and talking with would say, “I suppose this means that full stop, and that’s a deadly sort of thing looking over an Irish gift catalog at home members of the Irish community, with Mummy’s dead.” if you’re cursed with any imagination.” recently I noticed a number of tag lines special concern for those caught up in The nationwide poll on wits listing “Critics —erudite savages —a few regarding origin or provenance, where the undocumented dilemma. And Boston, included Noel Coward and Shake- literary hatchet men out to get me be- the material was from or what coun- before the Morrison and Donnelly visas, speare but also had a comedic note cause I had the impertinence to write a try produced it, etc. For example this was awash with too many unsettled of its own, picking the dour Winston world best seller the last time without particular popular Christmas catalog young men and women. Churchill in its top five. Now that’s any of the conventional qualifications ( I didn’t check out its competitors, so I However, it seems that young Brian funny. to perform such a feat. In my naivete I won’t provide the name of this company’s Lenihan Jr., who is minister of Justice Irish Diners Dialing For Lawyers never guessed we had such a surfeit of production) which advertises Irish goods in Bertie Ahern’s government, has dis- -- Shanahan’s on St. Stephen’s Green, would-be literary gravediggers.” & products uses terms like ‘Imported,” played a far harsher attitude towards an upscale Irish restaurant in Dublin Christy Brown died in September, “From Ireland,” “ Shipped from Ireland,” immigrants and the problems of immi- owned by an American that serves fine 1981 as he was having lunch and watch- or “From the E U,” “Designed in Ireland,” gration to Ireland today. He is proposing food and lofty prices, had a costly lesson ing horse racing on television. and so on. that immigrants (Lenihan calls them in customer relations recently. For first Omission -- Writing briefly last month In speaking with customer reps there I migrants?) must pass an English test denying the validity of a perfectly good about meetings in Finland between Sinn failed to clear up the confusion between to stay, regardless of their status. He gift certificate that the holder was using Fein leaders and others interested in products actually made in Ireland and also is pushing for a “No amnesty-No after a romantic evening celebrating replicating the Irish peace process in others that likely were trans-shipped regularization” policy. With regard to his girlfriend’s birthday, then publicly Iraq, I neglected to say that Padraig through Ireland or, in many instances, the mandatory English tests, it has embarrassing the young businessman, O’Malley, an old friend and the Moakley such as when the term “Imported” was been pointed out by EU scholars that Shanahan’s was ordered by the court Professor of International Peace and used, I was told, that meant the item was immigrants from EU countries who are to pay the aggrieved certificate holder Reconciliation at the McCormack Gradu- not from Ireland but was most probably legally in Ireland do not have to pass any $7,000 for slander. This was not the ate School, was the key organizer and produced in Asia., which I take to mean Irish-mandated English test, regardless first expensive legal incident that impetus behind the Finnish meetings. China. If buying products from mail of what high-flying Justice Minister Shanahan’s was involved in. Last year I regret the omission. order Irish catalogs when goods are not Lenihan says. a former waitress there was awarded Abbey To Get New Digs -- After always made in Ireland bothers you, take $7,000 (apparently the magic number for long months of frustration and uncer- a good look at the description that ac- damage awards) by the court for various employment law infractions, including sub-pay issues. I wrote about Shanahan’s some months ago because I had good reports on its food and ambience. I had Where in the World Can You Find News no idea, of course, that they had civility problems and didn’t want to pay their help a living wage. about urselves ur own JFK Library & Museum Goes Digi- O & O T tal -- It will take ten years to accomplish but a grant from AT&T will allow the Columbia Point presidential facility to www.BostonIrish.Com “digitize, index, and archive” millions of Page  November 2007 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com Publisher’s Notebook Commentary It’s a Time It’s Not Always Front and Center, Of Great Anxiety But the ‘It’ Factor is a Fixture in Irish Life

My home town of Dorchester and Mattapan was By Robert P. Connolly to a united future. once the second most populous community in Massa- Special to the BIR “As we continue to move ahead, that may mean chusetts. Census counts in 1950 showed a quarter of For some it’s a holy quest, for others it’s an evil to republicans will have to look at what type of united a million people made their homes there. Ours were be avoided at all costs, and for many more living on Ireland we’re going to have. I’m a republican, I believe neighborhoods connected by ethnic and religious the island of Ireland, it is an issue that hovers in the that a 32-county republic is the best model, but this ties. In those years, my first school, the Charles H. background, maybe to be settled some day, but not has to be thrashed out,” Adams noted in an interview Taylor, was a meeting ground for two communities, anytime soon. with the Boston Irish Reporter. one Christian, one Jewish. My parents sent the five The “it” is Irish unifi- “Others, not just unionists but unionists particu- Forry children to the public school for the first few cation, and while it may larly, may have a different view, and we have to try grades, fulfilling what they believed to be their ob- not be a burning issue in to shape a united Ireland in which unionism feels ligation to educate us in Catholic schools only when Ireland, it also is the issue that its rights and entitlements are protected and we could walk safely the mile or so to St. Gregory’s that never goes away. Par- guaranteed. We also have to be very firmly of the Elementary School in Lower Mills. ticularly around election view that everyone’s civil and religious liberties are In those years – the 1950s – St. Greg’s was the time, cynics may say. absolutely sacrosanct, that we have, referring to the Catholic school not just for parish children, but Even though there is no American model, guarantees of civil and religious also for many Milton and St. serious unification propos- freedoms.” Brendan’s boys and girls. There al pending on either side of Certainly, the idea of a post-unification model differ- were upwards of 80 children in the Irish border, the issue ent from Ireland’s current unitary state is something each classroom. Nearby, kids does retain a certain politi- that has been discussed for some time. playing ball at Walsh and Dot cal and emotional potency. In the 1980s, as violence tore at the fabric of North- parks would pause to watch All of Ireland’s national- ern Ireland, nationalist political leaders from North the colossal new hospital being ist parties, by definition, and South met for over a year considering ways in constructed along Dorchester Robert P. which unification could “restore the historic integrity Connolly maintain a commitment Ave. When, in 1953, an order to Irish unity, with Sinn of Ireland and end the divisions in the country.” of Catholic sisters opened the Fein, which wields most of When the leaders issued their New Ireland Forum new Carney Hospital for the its power in the North, topping the list, and Fianna Report in 1984, they looked at three models for Irish Ed Forry first time, for this Catholic child Fail, the leading party in the South, still offering up unity: the unitary state that would resemble the of Dorchester, the universe was very green sound bites. current Irish government, a federal state with legis- nearly complete. From school, to health care, from In fact, just two years ago, Fianna Fail’s leader, latures in the North and South, and a joint authority Sunday Mass to Lenten Stations of the Cross, it was Taoiseach Bertie Ahern, sought to buttress his na- arrangement under which Northern Ireland would be all there for my family and friends. Our church was tionalist bona fides when he said: “Unity is not just governed by London and Dublin. there to deliver whatever we needed. at the heart of Fianna Fail, but in the hearts of the The report was quickly dismissed by British Prime Those were days when the Catholic identity of Irish people.” Ahern added: “We must continue to Minister Margaret Thatcher, but many of its ideas, Dorchester was in its ascendancy; children like us make history happen.” and particularly its pluralist spirit of accommodation, lived in other parishes all across our town, and we As has been the case for decades, the chief obstacle were woven into the negotiations that brought peace would meet them only in sports competition, in CYO to Irish unity is Northern Ireland’s unionist major- to Northern Ireland. and games that caused friendly ity, people who historically have thought that their Robert Savage, the co-director of the Irish Studies rivalries to develop. From those years, and from that Protestantism, their sense of Britishness, and their program at Boston College, points out that the idea perspective, the Catholic parishes helped create economic well-being would all be in jeopardy in a 32- of taking a flexible approach to unification is one that identities, and our neighborhoods drew sustenance county united Irish state. That is why the Protestants then-Taoiseach Sean Lemass advanced in the 1950s and strength from the activities at these many of the North fought home rule in the years leading and 1960s. parishes. For us, we weren’t from Dorchester – we up to World War I and why they have battled so hard “Lemass talked about the possibility of retaining were from St Peter’s or St. William’s or St. Ann’s to preserve the six-county political lifeboat created a home-rule Stormont parliament in the context of or St Matthew’s or St. Mark’s, or one of the other by partition. a unified Irish state. Lemass and others displayed dozen Catholic parish communities that formed the And while it may appear that Irish nationalists flexibility and a willingness to think outside the box. hub of our lives. bent on unification have nothing to offer unionists Lemass had a Northern policy. He recognized that Times have a way of changing things, and things beyond their heartfelt regrets, the man who has had the sterile policy of referring to ‘the six counties’ have changed dramatically in Dorchester. Shifting unification at the top of his agenda for many years was counter-productive. He was interested in some demographics have resulted in a substantial reduc- voices a surprising degree of flexibility when the topic kind of constructive engagement with the unionists,” tion in the numbers of school-age children seeking of Irish unity arises. Savage noted. a Catholic education, and the Catholic Church has In a recent interview, Gerry Adams, the president A half-century later, the discussion continues to embarked on the process of consolidating the num- of Sinn Fein and in many ways the face of the re- percolate and political leaders continue to recognize ber of schools, part of a program called the “2010 publican quest for unification, stressed the need for that the unionist tradition would have to be accom- Catholic School Initiative.” accommodating unionist aspirations and sensibili- modated if unification is to become anything other That process became more public last month, with ties. Adams even suggested that a carefully designed than a distant dream. parent meetings at the eight remaining Catholic structure, like a federal Ireland, might be the path schools, and it is expected that Cardinal Seán O’Malley will announce his decisions about school closings sometime this month – ironically, perhaps Commentary around Thanksgiving. A similar consolidation in Brockton last year merged three schools into just one. Remembering Don Mooney, Taking a long look, the consolidation of the Catholic presence has been going on in Dorchester for 20 years and more. Once vibrant church communities at St. a Man With Lots of Verve Leo’s and St. William’s have been “supressed,” and parochial schools once supported by St. Matthew, By Martin McGovern research tool for historians and other academic schol- St. Ambrose, and St. Margaret parishes have shut Special to the BIR ars. Besides giving serious and unusual insights on down. In late October, reported Donald J. Mooney, one of the most talented and a turbulent and hectic era in Irish-American society, that the church is nearing a decision on the future colorful contributors to Irish-American journalism, culture and politics, Mr. Mooney’s publication had of the Carney Hospital, and it may happen that as died October 14 in Plymouth, Mass. He was 77 and the nerve and verve to ask awkward questions. He many as four of the eight current parochial schools had been ill for deserves full credit for not just founding the paper, now operating in Dorchester will shut down as early some time. but also sustaining it -- something he accomplished as next June. In 1976, Mr. after successful careers as a singer and in law en- Of course, what is happening in Dorchester is a Mooney estab- forcement. microcosm of a broad self-examination the Archdio- lished the monthly In addition to being publisher, editor, and opinion cese of Boston has begun all across its boundaries. A Boston Irish News, maker, he was also business manager, deliveryman, parish priest told me last week that while the num- which he edited and general entrepreneur. bers of nominal Catholics in Boston approaches two and published un- I wrote for the Boston Irish News for almost a decade million, remarkably only about 15 percent of them til he closed it in and working with Don was both fun and professionally actually attend Sunday Mass. And as the numbers 1991. In his run challenging. Today, I follow Irish events less intensely of priests in Boston continues to dwindle, the capac- of 15 years with than I did in my Irish News days, but in hindsight, all ity to staff parishes shrinks as well. Add to that the his paper, Mr. those stories, reports, and editorials that I wrote for growing costs of paying competent persons to staff Mooney created the paper played a role in my transition from being the wide array of Catholic facilities – hospitals, an alternative Irish to being American. schools, and social service agencies, for example voice within Irish I suspect Don would savor the paradox of me mak- – a good case can be made that some fundamental America, one that ing it to the American mainstream via involvement questions about our church’s priorities need to be challenged pre- in ethnic debates and arguments. He loved exploring addressed, firmly, publically. – and soon. vailing opinion paradoxes. So these are difficult times, even controversial, and broadened As a trained tenor, Don could carry a tune and, ap- as the Cardinal and his staff attempt an honest the scope of politi- propriately enough, his favorite song was “My Way.” assessment of their assets , and what makes sense Donald J. Mooney cal debate. As editor and publisher of the Boston Irish News, he for the future of Catholic life in Dorchester, as well T h e B o s t o n “sang” a somewhat different song, but he did it with as the rest of the archiocese. We know that there Irish News always charted an independent path. no less style, verve or class than when he was croon- are some changes to come, and we understand there It would have been easier to parrot the instinctive ing that Sinatra classic. will be some disruption in people’s lives. We hope nationalist line, but Mr. Mooney did not appreciate He certainly did it his way and I am proud of my and we pray – and we expect – that the decisions “group think.” An American of Irish and French association with Don and with the paper. Most of will be fair and just. Over the last 150 years, our descent, he refused to worship the idols of his tribe. all, I am grateful for his friendship and for the warm Catholic tradition has been long and meaningful for welcome that he and his family always extended to hundreds of thousands of people born and raised Instead, he probed and queried, debated and argued about nationalism, the North, immigration, lobbying, me at 14 Franconia Street in Dorchester. in Dorchester, and, it is fair to say, this church has Former Boston Irish News writer and Weymouth helped make us who we are. Irish expectations and American involvement. And, in collaboration with a crew of solid contributors, he resident Martin McGovern is the Director of Com- munications at Stonehill College – ED FORRY did so with passion and impish cheek. The Boston Irish News still stands as a valuable Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com November 2007 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page  Commentary Off the Bench Northern Ireland Secretary of State Makes Madness of War Highly Positive Impact on Visit to Boston Hits Home By Joe Leary real authority his position has over decisions made by By James W. Dolan Special to the BIR the new Northern Ireland Assembly, he said, “This They will all be gone soon. The living link to the The recently appointed Northern Ireland Secretary cuts to the heart of what devolution is all about – local greatest war in history will be severed. It will recede of State, Shaun Wood- political parties taking tough decisions in the interest of into the past as the aged fallen join their comrades, ward, came to Boston last the people of Northern Ireland. I don’t have the power many long since forgotten. month with messages of to take decisions for them. Of course, in constitutional If ever war was required, the Second World War was hope and a new resolve to terms, the British Parliament remains sovereign and as close to necessary as any of them. build the Northern Ireland so can legislate on any matter.” It was a war in which the distinction between combat- economy. In the past, the In other words, according to law, London still plays a ants and non-combatants was obliterated. Advanced arrival of a new secretary powerful role over events in Northern Ireland. This is weaponry made it possible to target those far removed of state would be filled with probably a good concept for everyone to realize. Though from the battlefield. Total war made little distinction. tension, defensive talk and some autonomy has been established, the Northern The obscene euphemism of “collateral damage” was carefully held events and Ireland Assembly is still accountable to London. used to soften the killing of young and old. meetings. Not this time. It is also a fact, however, that the hard, Army-en- As if “we didn’t mean it” would somehow reduce Harmony, good will, and forced border between the North and South of Ireland guilt. straight talk prevailed in is no longer an impediment to cross-border communi- The soldier who intentionally kills a civilian is court a far more relaxed atmo- cations or commerce. Though there remain pockets of martialed but those who order an airstrike or artillery sphere. distrust, business is being accomplished that would attack on a suspected enemy target that kills women With the sun shining not have been attempted just a few years ago. and children, are excused. It was a “regrettable mis- Joe Leary brightly outside, Secretary Woodward said that 70 percent of the North’s take.” Woodward spoke at a luncheon given in his honor by economy involves public spending, higher than France War is filled with “regrettable mistakes.” It is likely 50 members of The Irish American Partnership. His at 53 percent or Germany at 45 percent. The Repub- that as many as half the casualties that occur in combat performance was one of the more impressive seen from lic of Ireland, with a booming business atmosphere, are the result of strategic or tactical errors. any prior secretary of state. His remarks were delivered has public spending (government, schools, libraries, What is achieved when the young people of one with confidence and good humor, echoing the transfor- police and fire departments) of less than 34 percent nation set out to kill the young people of another? mation now taking place in Northern Ireland. of its economy. What a ghastly way to resolve human conflict. In any The focus was on economic development. “I urge Irish A good reason for Northern Ireland’s current eco- other context but war, it would be condemned as mass Americans to become involved with Northern Ireland,” nomic situation is its previous reputation for violence. murder. said Woodward. “The economic fundamentals are ripe Very few businessmen would have tried to build a new At least murder is usually purposefully directed; one for investors and are well positioned venture in such a troubled area. Another good reason person has a grievance against another. In war, if a to take advantage of the peace and stability that so for the disparity between the North and South is the grievance exists, it is not against the person killed. It many have contributed towards.” Republic of Ireland’s low 12.5 percent corporate tax is against the “enemy;” the personification of an act Now 48 years old and a Labor Party Member of the rate. Why should a business locate in an area with a or policy over which those you are trying to kill have British Parliament, Woodward has held elective office much higher current corporate tax rate -- like Northern little or no control. for ten years. He was first elected as a Conservative Ireland’s 38 percent? All wars are defensive. Nobody acknowledges being Party member then decided not to run for re-election. But Woodward says that such an analysis is too the aggressor. They are fought in defense of terri- “I had been uncomfortable for some time,” he says, simple. There are many other factors to be consid- tory, sovereignty, economic interests, freedom and and after a serious disagreement with conservative ered. In fact, after loud calls from Northern Ireland’s independence. party policy, he joined the Labor Party at Tony Blair’s business community to investigate the significant War is madness. At its core it makes no sense. We invitation. He then successfully then ran for a new seat difference between the North and South tax rate, the dress it up in order to justify it. Terms like honor, sac- in Parliament. He has since been assigned several British Government commissioned businessman Sir rifice, liberty and heroism are used to mask the stark leadership positions, culminating in his current ap- David Varney to study the issue. His report is due to reality of human beings slaughtering each other. It is pointment as Northern Ireland Secretary of State in be published shortly and when it is, Woodward and the denial of our humanity. Prime Minister Gordon Brown’s cabinet. Married with his advisers will react. We condemn murderers but praise those, who in a four children, the eldest of whom is only 18 years old, It is interesting to note that all these issues were different context, engage in mass killings. Is it any he says his family is his other fulltime job. discussed openly and in a spirit of finding answers. wonder there are so many tortured souls that return Woodward feels strongly about the positive nature It was refreshing. Shaun Woodward’s visit to Boston from war having been ordered to do what civilized of events in Northern Ireland. When asked how much was a success. society teaches them is wrong? We are now restrained from total war by the knowl- edge that the slaughter can no longer be contained. It once was restricted to the battlefield. With new Decline of Interest in Local Politics Sad weapons it moved beyond the battlefield and involved the widespread death of civilians. Now it is so horrible that nobody is safe; nothing would be left. to Some; Opportunity for Others? Will that be enough to prevent Armageddon? Have we evolved to the point where the unthinkable will not By Jim O’Sullivan anymore, anyway; who wants to go outside in some happen? As nuclear weapons proliferate, it is likely Special to the BIR neighborhoods; any belief in the value of government that a bomb will one day come into the possession of a This is not the keening nostalgia for glory days. In and public life is for suckers. Pick ’em. terrorist organization in which basic survival instincts truth, I don’t recall them, and am not sure I would’ve Or it could be that we’ve never been more involved are scorned. recognized them if I did. That’s the thing about glory with politics, just that they’re not local politics. Some If war is the ultimate act of violence, how can a gov- days (so sit up straight, Boston sports fans). neighborhoods turned out in record droves for Deval ernment credibly preach non-violence while pursuing What it is, instead, is a recognition that whatever Patrick last November, excited by the prospect of a policy that condones the use of force to achieve its estimable purchase in this city’s cultural fabric local voting for a candidate of color who championed their goals? Does war become defensive and thus justifiable politics might have had is diminished, if it has not own views. Districts that showed little ardor for the simply because those in power label it as such? disappeared altogether. There’s a Boston City Coun- latest mayoral election ran out of ballots for citizens The Vietnam War was fought to defend our freedom cil election this month – a chance for the next Tom trying to vote for governor. or so we were told. Iraq too posed a threat to our safety. Menino or Ray Flynn or Joe Moakley, all of whom National politics, too, are more accessible than Both justifications proved false. served on the dismembered body – and the buzz is ever. Anyone with a political jones can get their fix Is there an essential difference between the low grade further down than subterranean. from the big boys, with issues broader than whether warfare that occurs between gangs in our cities over Even the political cognoscenti, such as they are, are the Boston Redevelopment Authority should both real or imagined grievances, turf disputes or rights to ruefully apathetic about the vote. All over, there are plan and develop. Want Chris Dodd’s stance on how drug markets, and warfare on a grander scale waged stories from State House elevators about formerly po- states should pay for universal preschool? There’s no for “noble” purposes by nations? They are all defen- litically involved citizens who are unsure about who’s need to travel to the state campaign headquarters or sive, people get killed and the innocent are victims of running this year. These things mattered, once. wait for a newspaper account of his policies. Go to the “collateral damage.” It’s part of a steady backslide in interest, one that website. Watch “The Daily Show” for an arch view. Loyalty, honor, courage and are important raises perennial complaints about fading interest in Sign up for e-mail updates. virtues. They should never be spent in pursuit of un- Boston’s longtime hobby/bloodsport. What are sup- I’m aware this argument comes perilously close worthy objectives. posed to be our pastimes? Politics, sports, and revenge? to challenging our most cherished of local political James W. Dolan is a former Dorchester District Court Still breathing, seemingly, are two of three. axioms. But a good example is the attitude of my judge who now practices law. The 2005 Boston mayor’s race drew a long-shot desk-bound buddies from college. A lot of them work candidate against Menino, and long-view coverage in finance, and don’t read newspapers. Most wouldn’t from a media that grew collectively cranky about the have read newspapers 10 years ago. But now they sit contest’s mediocrity only in the waning days of the at desks with Internet browsers open all day, and this Boston Irish campaign. Perhaps a more attuned political press, stuff gets through, along with a staggering amount of present company included, could have cultivated pre- second-hand sports knowledge, pop-culture minutiae, and insulting e-mails. election atmospherics more emboldening for viable The BostonR IrishEP ReporterORT is published monthlyE by:R candidates. Then again, maybe the egg came before Every one of them knows who Larry Craig is, and I’d bet most of them draw that invaluable informa- Boston Neighborhood News, Inc., the chicken. 150 Mt. Vernon St., Suite 120, Dorchester, MA 02125 And a political class, already diminished, is unlikely tion from an information portal that wasn’t open to most 15 years ago. [email protected] www.bostonirish.com to cotton to a City Council race when a mayoral race Mary C. Forry, President (1983-2004) fails to excite public passion. Veteran pols are acknowledging that this year There is no shortage of stimulating narratives and voter turnout in Boston could hit the single-digit Edward W. Forry, Publisher peccadilloes to this campaign, most of which will have mark. Even in 2005, with the mayoral race on the William P. Forry, Managing Editor been resolved by the time this column finds most ballot, the rate was only 36 percent. This year, the Peter Stevens, Arts & Features Editor readers after the Nov. 6 election. So there’s no sense council’s decision to cancel the traditional September Thomas F. Mulvoy Jr., Contributing Editor in rehashing them here. preliminary, outraging some who saw a power play News Room: (617) 436-1222 Ads : (617) 436-1222 But there are deeper storylines at work, too, ques- on the part of incumbents, precluded the traditional Fax: (617) 825-5516 [email protected] tions about how this disinterest came to be. head-turn that the earlier vote draws. On The Web at www.bostonirish.com Maybe the “bowling alone” theory – holding that in- No one would argue, publicly, that the drop in Date of Next Issue: December, 2007 dividuals are increasingly isolated, would rather bowl attention to Boston politics is good for city life. And Deadline for Next Issue: Monday, November 19, at 2 p.m. Published Monthly in the first week of each month. alone, due to a host of social phenomena – explains some might argue it’s a betrayal of our heritage. But why politics is on the wane, or has fully waned. We there are compelling reasons behind the decline, and The Boston Irish Reporter is not liable for errors appearing in watch TV too much, costing us valuable neighbor- perhaps opportunities for the enterprising pol to ex- advertisements beyond the cost of the space occupied by the error. hood interaction time; nobody goes to civic meetings plore and, even more invitingly, exploit. The right is reserved by The Boston Irish Reporter to edit, reject, or cut any copy without notice. Page  November 2007 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com Notes from the Irish Immigration Center Immigration Q & A An agency accredited by US Department of Justice Warning: Beware 59 Temple Place, Suite 1010, Boston, MA 02111 Telephone (617) 542-7654 Fax (617) 542-7655 Diversity Visa Scams Website:iicenter.org Email: [email protected] Q. I’m about to apply for the latest Diversity Visa DV Lottery 2009 - you sometimes think you dedicated and courageous Legal Clinics in No- Lottery. I heard that the application is very complicated - We receive many calls need to cut down on your attitude to community ser- vember -- Have your and that there are services available on-line to help this time of year about drinking/drug use? Are vice has made her a well immigration and U.S. people with the paperwork. Can you recommend these the annual DV lottery you confused, depressed, known, much respected, citizenship questions services? – where up to 55,000 U.S. anxious or feel that your and hugely popular figure answered by experienced visas are given out every fears are overwhelming? in the Irish community attorneys at one of our A. No, there is no need for you to pay for any on-line year. This year’s online Remember that on the and far beyond. We con- free legal clinics: service to file your application. While some of these application process has second and last Mondays gratulate her for this well Downtown – Every services may not be scams, they do charge you a fee for opened and runs until the of every month the IIC’s deserved accolade. The Tuesday and Thursday filing your application through them. This is beginning of December. Danielle Bowles will be at Charitable Irish Society from 4 to 7 p.m. in our unnecessary. The lottery application is free and should Irish immigrants are the Neponset Health Cen- is the oldest Irish Society office at 59 Temple Place, be done directly with the U.S. State Department. Go to among the winners every ter (398 Neponset Ave) for in the Americas and qui- Suite 1010. Get off at Park their web site at www.travel.state.gov for an explanation year and there is no fee to the Community Drop-In etly supports many Irish St. or Downtown Crossing of the process and access to the electronic application enter -- so beware of any Service from 2 p.m. to 6 families through financial Subway. form. The IIC can help you with all aspects of the organization or individual p.m. and then on Nov. 12 hardship every year. See -Brighton – application, including digital photo requirements. charging you money to and 26, Jan. 14 and 28, Greg O’Brien’s profile of Monday the 12th at 6:30 Some diversity visa lottery web sites may be outright register. If you would like and Feb. 4 and 25. Gobnait in this issue of p.m. in the Kells Bar and scams, either promising to increase your odds of winning help with your application Call Danielle anytime the BIR. Restaurant, 161 Brighton or just taking your money and providing no service in we offer assistance by ap- at IIC at 617-542-7654, Welcome to the folk Avenue, Allston return. There are a great many websites referring to the pointment every Tuesday Ext. 14. from Clanrye -- Just as Dorchester – Tuesday, lottery. A Google search for “visa lottery” results in and Thursday from 1 p.m. Silver Key for Gob- one group left, our final the 27th at 6:30 p.m. over 300,000 hits - again, some perhaps legitimate and to 6 p.m. We have been nait Conneely -- Long- Wider Horizons group of in the basement of St. others fraudulent. It can be difficult to tell which is helping Irish immigrants time IIC staff member, the year arrived in Boston Mark’s Parish Church which. For example, the first website that comes up on accurately complete their volunteer, and former at the end of October. So Immigration Attorneys the Google search displays images of the American eagle applications since the lot- Board President Gobnait at the same time as say- will be present at all clin- and flag, the Statue of Liberty, the U.S. Capitol, and tery was created. Let us Conneely has been award- ing a fond farewell to the ics. IIC has been provid- President Bush. Only in the fine print at the bottom of help you this year. ed the annual “Silver Key Omagh/Donegal crew in ing free immigration legal the page is there a disclaimer that the organization is Dorchester Sub- Award” by the Charitable a glitzy graduation cer- advice for 16 years. not a U.S. government agency -- which is clear in any event stance Abuse Drop-In Irish Society. Since arriv- emony late last month, we IIC in the Boston because the website’s address does not end in “.gov.” -- Is your life being affected ing from Merview, Gal- say a warm welcome to our Herald -- Last month we Fraudulent or not? It is difficult to say. The website by Substance Abuse? Do way, in 1980, Gobnait’s new team from Clanrye published a column in the offers assistance in filing the visa application (for a training in Newry. The advocat- fee, of course - the amount of which is not disclosed young men and women ing that Massachusetts until the applicant provides personal information), which IIC Offers Free Health, will be with us here in permit immigrants to may be legitimate if a waste of money. But it also Boston for the next 8 obtain driving licenses strongly implies without an overt statement that using the Dental Screening Nov. 12 weeks completing unpaid just as New York’s gov- service increases the odds of winning, which is The Irish Immigration Center will be offering free internships in customer ernor recently did there. impossible. So the prudent course is to avoid all health and dental screenings provided by volunteer service and staying with A major part of our ad- websites that sell lottery visa application services. doctors and dentists from 3 to 6 p.m. on Mon., Nov. 12. local families. If you see vocacy work on behalf There is another issue here: Some websites may not just Traditionally, many in the Irish community visit the them, please say hello. of the undocumented is take your money; they also may steal your identity and use doctor only when something is hurting really badly New Citizenship Test/ influencing public opinion your credit card number, etc. to rob you. This is one or falling off, but the IIC is encouraging preventive IIC Classes -- USCIS last on immigration issues more reason to stay away from commercial on-line visa care as “a stitch in time.” month released the “final” through the media. To services. “The principle behind all of our programs is to version of the new test get involved in our media take care of small problems so they never become big questions to be studied work or share your story For a confidential consultation about this or any other problems, and this is especially important with health for and answered by fu- e-mail: tkeown@iicenter. aspect of immigration law, contact the IIC at 617-542-7654 and wellness,” said Sister Lena Deevy, Executive ture applicants for U.S. org. or visit one of our legal clinics. Director of the IIC. “We know that many folks, and Citizenship -- applicants Last Minute Solas particularly some elderly in our community, don’t from and after October of 2007 Tickets! -- It’s late, Disclaimer: These articles are published to have health insurance or may not be comfortable next year. IIC is currently it’s late, but, yes, Solas inform, not to advise. Areas of law are rapidly going to the doctor or dentist for a check-up. We are midway through our series Awards Dinner tickets changing. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration pleased to provide these services for free in a safe of free weekly classes to are still available for $150 Services and US Department of State regu- and friendly environment.” help future U.S. citizens each from our website larly amend regulations and alter processing and The health professionals will be provided through prepare for the current (www.iicenter.org) or by filing procedures. For legal advice seek the assistance the “Cathedral Cares” ministry of Cathedral of the test. If you have been a calling Nicole in our de- of an IIC immigration specialist or an immigration Holy Cross and among screenings offered will be skin permanent resident of the velopment department at attorney. and dental, heart, cholesterol, and blood pressure. U.S. for five years or more 617-542-7654. See related Call Lauren at the IIC at 617-542-7654, Ext. 10, to we invite and encourage story in this section. make an appointment or for more information. you to contact us about becoming a citizen. Matters Of Substance Breaking Free of the Past

By Danielle Bowles seemed to find crazy boy- look in the mirror now “I can’t remember a time friends. I’d meet guys in and not feel like hiding when I didn’t feel that I was bars or clubs, and pretend- anymore. I may actually wrong. I didn’t know why ing to be confident came graduate from college this simple things like getting easy when I had a couple summer! I met someone to work on time, complet- of drinks. It never lasted last month who I can go ing my college projects, long; he usually found to the cinema with and even spending time with someone else or ended up have a laugh with. I don’t friends, I always felt like I in jail. I always thought always feel like crying wasn’t good enough. I was it was just me and that now. I know I have a long put on medication because I would always be alone. way to go. I chat online of my suicide thoughts, We also talked about my to other people who grew which helped but I still family, which I usually up the same way. I hear felt very sad and lonely. I hate to do. I never used to their stories and realize started going to counseling bring anyone home. The that I am not alone. I am because my psychiatrist one time I did, my mum writing because I want said I needed to. I just cried was asleep on the counter other people to know that Danielle Bowles and cried in my first few in her dressing gown, no matter how unlucky or sessions. I kept expecting passed out from the night unlovable you think you counseling for yourself or my counselor to say I was before. I never did that are, it’s not true. I’m not someone you care about, hopeless and come back again. My dad was always responsible for what hap- contact Danielle in con- when I could talk without working, so my sister and I pened growing up, but I fidence, at the Irish Im- crying. I was amazed that took care of mum and the can talk about how I feel migration Center. Phone: someone wanted to listen house. When I finally left and learn a new way to 617-542-7654, Ext 14; to me without anything in home for college, I was so live my life.” e-mail: dbowles@iicenter. return, like my boyfriends excited. I only had to look If you are thinking about org. did. after myself. There were “When I began to talk no more rows if I did some- about boyfriends, my coun- thing wrong, which was selor asked me how I felt usually pretty often. when I was with them. I “In counseling, I began to Subscribe Today! had to think about that. learn that my mum was an I usually felt excited and alcoholic and that my emo- to the Boston Irish Reporter shocked that they were tional problems now might interested and wanted to be related to growing up in Call 617-436-1222 be with me. I only ever an unhealthy home. I can Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com November 2007 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page  Irish Immigration Center Cites 12 for Solas Awards; Msgr. McDonnell, 11 Others to Join the Honor Roll him Vicar for Religious of the Archdiocese and in 1983 By Thomas Keown he was back at St Augustine’s, where he would serve Special to the BIR as “Father Tom” for the next 21 years -- latterly also He served the parishioners of St. Augustine in South as priest of neighboring St Monica’s. Boston for than 20 years and remains a beloved figure An eloquently intellectual man, the monsignor in that neighborhood. But the name and the impact of reached into homes and workplaces across the city Monsignor Thomas J. McDonnell extend far beyond the and across social lines with the publication of regular parochial and on Nov. 9 he will join the Irish Immigra- articles and thoughts in scholarly publications, in tion Center’s glittering honor roll of Solas awardees. the Boston Pilot and in this very newspaper, among Born and raised in Mattapan, then Father McDonnell others. But it was perhaps his heart and passion for was named a monsignor by Pope John Paul II in 1998. the mentally and physically handicapped that put his But to those who know him, he was and will always be message of love into the most tangible form. “Father Tom.” Speaking to the Boston Herald shortly Honored by the ARC (formerly the Association of after his elevation, the monsignor candidly displayed Retarded Citizens) in 1992 for his outstanding contri- the humility that, coupled with his activity, made him bution to those with mental retardation, he touched a legend among those in his care: “For me every day souls throughout dozens of Boston communities in his provides an opportunity to go out there and help someone voluntary work and as Archdiocesan Coordinator of who needs it. What greater joy could there be?” Ministry with Handicapped People. “We are delighted that Monsignor McDonnell will “I really do believe he embodies the idea of another accept our award this year,” said Sister Lena Deevy, Christ,” said Sister Peggy Youngclaus, who helped Executive Director of the Irish Immigration Center. the monsignor form his Simon of Cyrene Society to “Every year we look for honorees who not only serve minister to the handicapped. “He is without doubt the their community and the world through their work but most caring and compassionate person I know.” consistently go above and beyond what anyone could Msgr. McDonnell retired in 2004 and today lives as expect. Monsignor McDonnell personifies that ‘extra senior priest in residence at St. Mary’s in Dedham. bit’. His ministry and his humility have enhanced the him constantly in the battle for social justice. Or- The IIC’s Solas Award is a fitting honor for a man lives of so many over the years we couldn’t even begin dained in Rome in 1960, he returned there in 1962 who has shone a light above Boston for nearly half to measure it.” to complete his doctoral studies in theology -- with a a century. The Irish Immigration Center hopes that Also receiving awards at the Westin Hotel that night year at St. Mary Star of the Sea in Beverly tucked in you will join them in paying tribute to a remarkable will be Gerard and Maureen Doherty for their many between. Upon his arrival back in the United States, man’s remarkable service. years of local philanthropic endeavor, and IIC’s team Father McDonnell began his long association with St Last minute tickets are still available by calling of nine volunteer attorneys. Augustine’s parish, serving there for five years before Nicole at IIC at 617-542-7654 or at iicenter.org. All Msgr. McDonnell’s lifetime in the church took him being appointed to the faculty of St John’s Seminary in proceeds support Irish Immigration Center programs twice to Rome and twice to St. Augustine’s, and kept 1969. In 1978, Cardinal Humberto Medeiros appointed and services. BIR NEWS ROUNDUP Pay Hikes for Taoiseach, review body came up with the Government should have 250,000 euro. refused to implement it, at least as far as it affected poli- Heads of universities received salary increases of 14.2 Others Provoke Loud Fuss ticians. Sinn Fein pointed out that th Taioseach’s pay percent, to 236,000 euro, or 19 percent, to 270,000. From The Irish Emigrant increase was more than the average industrial wage. In some instances the review body felt that the sal- A huge controversy has broken out over large pay In accepting the report the Government also agreed ary already being paid for some positions is too high increases awarded to the Taoiseach and his ministers. to large salary increases for senior public servants, and called for adjustments to be made for the future On Oct. 25, the Government accepted the recommen- members of the judiciary and the heads of universi- holders of the posts. Among those in this category are dations of the independent Review Body on Higher ties. Department heads received increases of up to Brendan Drumm, CEO of the Health Service Executive, Remuneration, which will see the Taoiseach’s salary in- 11.6 percent, and those in the bigger departments now who receives 360,000 euro per year plus bonuses, and crease by 14 percent, from 272,000 euro to 310,000. The earn 303,000 euro. Judges did well, with increases the CEO of the National Roads Authority. For the first Tanaiste’s salary goes up by 15.65 percent, to 270,000 of between 15 percent and 22.4 percent. This leaves time the review body considered the value of the gener- euro and other ministers receive 12 percent increases the chief justice on the same salary as the Taoiseach. ous pensions available to public servants and claimed to 240,000 euro. The increases have drawn compari- The lowest paid judge, in the District Court, will now to have deducted 15 percent from what it considered sons with the salaries available in other jurisdictions receive 158,000 euro. The Garda Commissioner’s sal- the appropriate salaries for all those under review. The and it was widely noted that Bertie Ahern earns more ary moves up to 250,000, somewhat higher than the comment is seen as an indication that the benchmarking than President Bush or the prime ministers of Britain, Chief of Staff of the Defence Forces, who will be at process, which is currently reviewing the salaries paid to Germany, and France. In fact none of the newspapers 220,000. Among local government officials, Dublin City the vast bulk of public servants, will offer very little by appears to have found a prime minister anywhere who Manager John Tierney seemed to be singled out for spe- way of pay increases. has a larger salary than the Taoiseach. Ahern didn’t cial treatment as his salary goes up by 36.2 percent, to take the criticism too seriously and, when the subject was raised by journalists, he pointed to the fact that he does not have the equivalent of a White House, Elysee Palace, or 10 Downing Street in which to live. For the record, President Bush has a salary of 280,000 euro Breads ’n Bits of Ireland (($400,000), roughly the same as that of EC president Jose Manuel Barroso. British Prime Minister Gordon Brown receives 268,000 euro and German Chancellor • Home Bakery • Irish Kitchen Angela Merkel earns 228,000, well ahead of the French President or the Dutch Prime Minister but they are Featuring... Scones, Irish Soda Bread, Brown Bread, all among the superrich when compared to the 50,000 euro k paid to the Prime Minister of Poland, who in Homemade Soup, Sandwiches turn is about 10,000 euro better off than the Prime Minister of Slovakia. Telephone 781-662-5800 • Fax 781-662-0859 Opposition politicians had a field day in criticizing the government and no doubt found few dissenters among e-mail: [email protected] the general public. The argument was that whatever the 530 Main Street, Melrose, MA 02176 • 781-662-5800

Irish The Attorneys That Attorneys Call Regarding Cultural Centre Personal Injury Cases WEDDINGS • CORPORATE EVENTS • PRIVATE PARTIES QUINN & MORRIS FULL LIQUOR LICENSE • ACCOMMODATES UP TO 250 James T. Morris, Esq. Hon. Robert H. Quinn, Esq. Former Massachusetts SPACIOUS TENT OVER PATIO FOR OUTDOOR PARTIES Former Massachusetts Asst. Attorney General Attorney General 617-423-3500 Counsel to the Speaker Former House Speaker AS WELL AS BEAUTIFUL YEAR-ROUND FACILITIES Mass. House 141 Tremont Street, Boston UNIQUE COUNTRY SETTING

For personal service, AUTOMOBILE ACCIDENTS • WORKERS COMPENSATION call toll free 1-888-464-7474 • CONSTRUCTION ACCIDENTS Now accepting reservations 200 New Boston Drive, Canton FREE CONSULTATION • NO FEE UNLESS WE ARE SUCCESSFUL Page 10 November 2007 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com Reflections Judged On/In Love

By Msgr. Thomas J. McDonnell adequate response to such love is to try to surrender ring a blessing upon me, allowing me to come into As our high school teachers tried to pound into our our hearts in love to the Lord. Such is, of course, a contact with Christ. minds, learning a foreign language (even a dead one life-long process. On the other hand, St. John’s observation might be like Latin) is always difficult. Moreover, it demands There are so many other dimensions of love. We meant to place more emphasis on the interior dynamic a certain precision in thought and a familiarity with think of spouses’ love for one another. Such is person- of judgment. In this case, he would be highlighting and the text and context. Thus a simple word in Latin “in” alized, total, faithful, and ever expanding. I believe emphasizing the divine perspective. We might think, could mean in, into, upon, or on. The same is true in these same qualities must be enfleshed when we for example, of the parable of the father who waits in other languages. are trying to reach out to our neighbor, especially love and compassion to embrace his prodigal son. Such an extensive introduction is not, I hope, with- those in need. Love is never an abstraction. It must One of the most eloquent, yet simple, commentaries out value. One of my favorite quotations is from the be concretized. Since the pattern of our redemptive on this parable was offered by the poet Charles Peguy Carmelite Saint and Doctor of the Church, John of love must be based on the Divine example, we need in his “Vision of Prayer:” the Cross. His writings are extensive. In one of them, to realize that our love must be concerned with the “Our Father who art in Heaven, my son knew ex- there is a phrase that I have often quoted: “In the total person, body and soul. And because we proudly actly what to do evening of your life, you will be judged on love.” bear the name “Catholic,” we have to realize that our In order to tie the arms of my justice and untie the In this interpretation, his thought seems straight- love of neighbor must be ever expansive, reaching arms of my mercy … forward. He reminds us of the importance of Christ’s out to all men and women. And now I must judge like a father. As if a father were two commandments: love of God and love of neighbor. Two thoughts might help us incorporate the lat- any good to judge. “A certain man had two sons.” In many ways, they are inseparable. ter points into our spiritual strivings. The first is to As if he were capable of judging “A certain man The late Holy Father John Paul II urged the be found in an adjective applied to God in the Old had two sons.” We know well enough how a father faithful at the beginning of the Jubilee Year 2000 Testament. He is a “jealous” God – jealous of His judges.” to contemplate the face of Christ. As we turn our image, which is present in every one of His sons When I think of the dynamic of being judged in love, eyes to the Lord, especially as He writhes in agony and daughters. And He does not wish this image to my thoughts and eyes turn to Christ, our Savior and on the Cross, we understand His total love for each be blasphemed by degrading poverty and senseless Redeemer. We know that the Letter to the Hebrews one of us as individuals. And we realize that the only starvation, as well as by violence. observes how Christ continually intercedes for us. The second point is to realize that when I touch a For myself this truth has provided a great deal of poor or suffering person consolation. It reminds me that when I stumble or fall through prayers, good- Christ remains speaking my name before the throne works, and alms, I am of the Father. He will never abandon us. But I also really coming into contact believe that Christ will be beside us at the moment with Christ: “ … as long of judgment. We are in His heart. And as the Father as you did it to these the looks upon the wounds of His Son – wounds suffered least of mine, you did it out of love for us – I do not believe He will reject His to me (Mt. 25). Thus in Son’s pleas. reality, they are confer-

Sweet Remembrances... • Personalized Favor Boxes • Custom Ribbons • Themed Chocolate Molds • Decorated Boxes filled with our own Handmade Chocolate and Candies Stop by and see our collection of distinctive, delicious favors! Head Down to Phillips 818 Morrissey Blvd., Boston • South Shore Plaza, Braintree bostonchocolate.com • 1-800-722-6905 for a Wicked Good Time! Thursday Night South Shore’s Best Trivia Night Sunday Brunch Every Sunday, 10:30 - 2:30 We wire Have fun and win prizes funds to Check out our exciting Ireland Friday & Saturday Night New & Expanded Menu! daily. DJ Night with local favorite Boston’s Best Kept Secret! FREE Mike Keeley Phillips Old Colony House & Freeport Tavern 780 Morrissey Boulevard, Boston/near Neponset Circle Checking 617-282-7700 � FREE ATMs � FREE Online Banking & Bill Payment GERARD’S ADAMS CORNER 772 - 776 Adams Street, Dorchester, MA 02124 617-282-6370 A STORE Open 5:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., 7 Days a Week A RESTAURANT Allston 229 North Harvard Street • Brighton 435 Market Street Open 6:30 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., 7 Days a Week Jamaica Plain 725 Centre Street • Norwood 61 Lenox Street West Roxbury 1905 Centre Street For all your catering: (617) 254-0707 functions, christenings, weddings, Member FDIC www.pfsb.com banquets, funerals, anniversaries, surprise parties, etc.

5" x 7.5" Irish Reporter Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com November 2007 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 11 Brett’s Boston By Harry Brett Exclusive photos of Boston Irish people & events

The Charitable Irish Society, hosted a three Silver Key Awards reception on October 18 at Boston’s Union Club. Honored were: Gobnait Con- neely of the Irish Immigration Center, Carol A. D’Arcy of Boston’s Irish Consulate in Boston and Brian O’Donovan. 1.) Charlie Dumbaugh, Charitable Irish President with awardees Conneely, D’Arcy, and O’Donovan; 2.) Jeff Flagg, W. Roxbury; Lauren and Peter Estes, No. Andover; 3.)Lindsay O’Donovan, Newton; Lis Shannon, Brookline; Olga Reisman, Brookline; 4.) Bob Murphy, Southboro, Ann O’Malley, So. Boston; Gene Connors, Wellesley; 5.) Neil Hurley, Somerville, Liz and Michael Connolly, W. Roxbury; 6.) Bagpiper Ed O’Callaghan, Cambridge; 7.) Rep. Kevin Honan, Maura Connors, Wellesley; 8.) Rep. Peter Koutoujian, Charlie Dumbaugh, president, Irish Charitable; 9.) Murray Forbes, Beverly Farms; Bill Pear, Beacon Hill; 10.) Ann Kieran, Medford; Catherine Bradfield, Randolph; Neil 1. Hurley, Somerville; 11.) Ed Forry; Gobnait Con- nelly; Rep. Linda Dorcena Forry; Sheila Farragher, Galway; 12.) Karin Dumbaugh, Beacon Hill; Paula Carroll, Sherborn; Neil Moynihan, Cambridge; 13.) Peter and Connie Koutoujian, Waltham; Rita and Bill O’Connell, Duxbury.

2. 3.

4. 5. 6.

7. 8. 9.

10. 11.

12. 13. Page 12 November 2007 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com History ‘ON THIS ROCK’ John Boyle O’Reilly’s Paean to Plymouth Rock Remains Uniquely American -- and Boston -- Irish

By Peter F. Stevens Boyle O’Reilly had been a O’Reilly, living in Bos- America had come and BIR Staff Fenian, once condemned ton in an era when Irish how much it had been When it comes to to death by a British writers often received shaped by the values Thanksgiving, images of military court. Only his the cold shoulder from and aspirations of the the Pilgrims and Wampa- daring escape from a America’s literary lions, Plymouth colonists. “The noag Indians gathered at prison in Western Aus- won their acclaim with joyful clanging of iron long wooden tables piled tralia had brought him his sheer talent as a word- bells, the sounding boom with platters of food are to the same shore where smith and was selected of heavy cannon, and the the norm. Every Novem- he now prepared to honor in 1889 to compose and ringing cheers of a city’s ber, American families a vivid national symbol deliver an address and ode inhabitants greeted the gather as those tenacious – Plymouth Rock. to “the Pilgrim Fathers” sun as it rose this morn- English colonists did in O’Reilly – the nation- at the unveiling of the ing,” the August 2, 1889, 1621, and Thanksgiving ally acclaimed editor of Plymouth Rock monu- the Times’s front-page traditions do not nor- the Boston Pilot, essayist, ment. O’Reilly not only story related,” ushering mally reflect anything novelist, athlete, ex-Brit- symbolized to the Irish of in the greatest day this Irish. Yet, in 1889, at ish Army soldier, Fenian the wards that one of their historic old town [Plym- the ceremonies dedicat- organizer and rebel – had own, a Fenian firebrand no outh] has ever known…. ing the national monu- carved out an astonishing less, had elbowed his way The whole town had been ment at Plymouth Rock, literary career in Boston. into the American world up for hours, and had it the broad-shouldered, In the words of an ad- of letters, but also that he rained buckets full, this mustachioed poet who mirer, O’Reilly “was born had surpassed a long list of great celebration – the rose to deliver the main with the gift,” the gift of local Yankee writers. dedication of the splendid speech was not someone the poet. The dedication of the monument in honor of bearing the name Brad- O’Reilly was born near Pilgrim Monument gar- the Pilgrim Fathers who ford, Alden, Winslow, or Drogheda, County Meath, nered nationwide cover- made Plymouth Rock Carver. The writer was on June 28, 1844. By the age by the press, and historic 269 years ago not a celebrated Yankee time he reached the Unit- O’Reilly was under some – would have been carried author like Oliver Wen- ed States in late 1869, pressure to deliver a poem through to a close with as dell Holmes. The man he had been a writer, a worthy of both his talent much loyal enthusiasm as who delivered the ode to soldier, a Fenian prisoner, and the occasion. The New if the celebrants had been John Boyle O’Reilly: Eloquence at the Rock the Pilgrims was an Irish- and a man whose life could York Times trumpeted blessed with the fairest man – and not just any have served as grist for the the meaning of the day day that the sun had ever at the monument among link, Boston Irishman. John skills of Melville. as a symbol of how far smiled upon.” a veritable “who’s who” When English hands, by The crowd of dignitar- of Yankee scions – men wider vision taught ies and citizens from all named Lodge, Endicott, Threw down the feu- over the nation gathered Long, and Mather. The dal bars the Normans early for the ceremonies, Irishman saw that “every brought, scheduled to commence inch of space for hundreds And here revived, in at 9:30 a.m. on August 1. of feet about the pedestal spite of sword and stake, “Battery A of Boston kept was occupied.” Curry College is a private, four-year, co-educational college located on Their ancient freedom its guns hard at work even “Visitors had been pour- of the Wapentake. 137 wooded acres in Milton, MA – just minutes from Boston. after the bells had grown ing into town all of yes- Here struck the seed terday and on the early QUICK FACTS ABOUT CURRY COLLEGE: quiet,” a reporter noted. – the Pilgrims’ roofless “The cheers of the multi- trains this morning,” an town, • Curry serves over 2,000 full-time, traditional undergraduate students from tude outlasted both.” observer wrote, “and prob- Where equal rights and 40 states and 32 countries and approximately 1,600 continuing education As O’Reilly had labored ably Plymouth never held equal bonds were set, and 400 graduate students. over his ode, he had seized such a crowd before. Ev- Where all the people • Curry offers 20 majors and 65-plus minors and concentrations in the liberal arts upon a theme familiar to eryone attended these equal-franchised met; and professional fields leading to bachelor’s degrees and three master’s degrees. all the Irish who had left dedicatory services, and Where doom was writ of there was hardly space • Curry’s student/faculty ratio is 12:1. The average class size is 20 students. their “ould sod” for the privilege and Crown; promise of the New World: enough about the monu- Where human breath • Approximately 70% of undergraduate students receive some form of financial aid. He drew subtle com- ment to provide all with blew all the idols down; parisons to the journey of even standing room.” Where crests were Excellence in For more information, call or visit: William Bradford, Myles After several testimoni- naught, where vulture Education Standish, and company. als to the Pilgrims and the flags were furled, (617) 333-0500 • www.curry.edu Now, the ex-Fenian stood monument were delivered, And common men began O’Reilly stepped forward. to own the world. In a reception that proved Such lines as “the feu- yet again how far the Irish- dal bands the Norman Annualborn St.writer Patrick’s had climbed in brought” and “vulture the collective opinion of his flags” certainly elicited Dayfellow Open immigrants House and na- references to the Normans The Tinker’s Cart tive-born Americans alike, who invaded Ireland from Quality Irish Imports a newspaperman recorded England long ago, in the Quality Irish Imports Sat., Mar.that “the 1211 introduction • 10-4 of 1170s, and began the long You’ll be delighted John Boyle O’Reilly elic- and brutal subjugation of with all the treasures we & Sun., itedMar. much 1312 enthusiasm.” • 10-4 the Irish. O’Reilly’s ver- “Mr. O’Reilly was the bal shots at “privilege and have to offer. The best of We’ll have plentypoet of of the refreshments, day,” the re - Crown” were redolent of theYou’ll Emerald be Isle right in raffles, & Timothyporter the added. Leprechaun will a former Fenian who had delightedyour own with backyard. be on handPapers to meet in the hand, kids! the been denied freedom in Irishman cleared his his own land, only to find all the treasures throat and began to read it in that of the “Pilgrim AnIrish Evening Travel with Night: Seamus Wed., Kennedy March 23, Thursday,we 7:00have p.m. March The Old23 ClintonTimer RestaurantTown Hall, aloudSpecial his ode, Sales “The Pil- Fathers.” asm,” said Kieran Travel to Ireland with The Tinker’s Cart. Join us for an Irish Coffee and hear all about the grimthroughout Fathers.” The the crowd O’Reilly recognized Clinton, MA. 7:30 - 10:00. Tickets:to offer. $10 Thebalcony best seats, $15 floor. To benefit was riveted by the poet’s exciting vacations that CIE offers. We’ve shown you the products of Ireland now let us that, in Boston and New the Connor and Kelly Gannon Scholarshipof the Fund. Call Introducingfor info and tickets. words, store each stanza a England, the Irish were show you the country!Emerald Call today Isle to reserve your place. moving and memorable still clawing for their paean not only to the own foothold in America. 787 Main St. • Rte. 70 • Clintonright in •your www.tinkerscart.com Our long-departedd Pilgrim His words in Plymouth dreds are going down right own backyard • 978 365-4334men, women, and children brimmed with the hope Newest who had established their that for the Irish, “all the foothold in the wilderness idols” of “Crown” and An- in 1620, but also to the very glo-American “privilege” Store idea of America itself as a would fall. Natick Collection haven and a fresh start for On Thanksgiving 2007, the dispossessed of the Old as families with Irish 1245 Worcester Street, Ste. 2130 World. One of the poem’s bloodlines gather to cel- most telling stanzas ran in ebrate the holiday, one of newspapers nationwide: such pronounced English Natick, MA 01760 roots, it would be fitting to Here, on this rock and recall the County Meath 508-651-7733 on this sterile soil, expatriate who was se- Began the kingdom not lected over a Yankee pan- of Kings, but men; theon of writers and poets Began the making of the to dedicate the Pilgrim world again. Monument. Fenian and 787 main st. • rte. 70 • clinton • MA Here centuries sank, and poet, John Boyle O’Reilly from the hither brink claimed a place, so to www.tinkerscart.com A new world reached speak, at the Pilgrims’ and raised an old-world historical table. Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com November 2007 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 13 Brett signing launches Mary Casey Forry Foundation Governor Deval Patrick and Mayor Tom Menino joined hundreds of local residents at a book signing party held on Tuesday, Oct. 16, at the Boston Har- bor Hotel for Boston: An Extended Family, a book of portraits by acclaimed photographer Bill Brett. Book sales at the party went to benefit a new foun- dation named for Reporter founder Mary Casey Forry, who died in 2004 after long battle with pancreatic cancer. The goal of the foundation is to create a residential hospice home in the Dorchester-Mattapan-Milton area. Brett, a longtime friend of the Forry family, joined forces with the Boston Harbor Hotel to make the night a success. Photos by Aram Boghosian

Bill Brett signs a copy of his book Boston: An Extended Family.

This foundation is in loving memory of MARY CASEY FORRY Mary Casey Forry Foundation

Mary Casey Forry, a spouse, a mom and a grandmother, was founding president of Boston Neighborhood News, Inc. and publisher of the Dorchester Reporter, and a gifted writer whose “Urban Gardener” columns delighted scores of readers. She was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in February, 2003, and lived with the disease for 22 months. As the end of her life came near, she and her family found great comfort in the compassionate care provided by hospice. For Mary, hers was a peaceful death. For our family, we were privileged to welcome hospice into our own home. But in-home hospice care may not always work – a spouse may be unable to care for a partner, or there may be no family or friends nearby to ensure a death with such dignity. Our family has resolved to establish a facility that can be shared by people in need. It is called a “residential hospice,” an environment where persons can receive end-of-life care with caregivers on duty to provide the necessary palliative care. Our hope is to establish a hospice home in the Dorchester-Mattapan-Milton area, a place where persons may spend their final days “close to home.” For our neighbors, it will be a place for a loved one to die with dignity. For more details, or to offer support, please visit marycaseyforry.org Mary Casey Forry Paul LaCamera, general manager of WBUR-FM, has his book autographed. Foundation, Inc. 150 Mt Vernon Street, Suite 120 Dorchester MA 02125 617-549-4642 marycaseyforry.org

( 501 (c)(3) pending.) The Mary Casey Forry Foundation, Inc. was formed as a Massachusetts chapter 180 nonprofit corporation on September 28, 2007. The organization will submit an application for tax-exemption under Section 501(c)(3) of the Code to be classified as a public charity. Upon receiving a favorable determination letter from the IRS, the organization’s Section 501(c)(3) status should be retroactive to the date of formation. Charitable contributions to organizations described in Section 501(c)(3) of the Code and classified as Gov. Deval Patrick, Mary Casey Forry Foundation president Maureen Forry, a public charity are deductible to the extent permitted by law. Donors should consult a tax advisor if they Bill Brett, WBZ-TV news anchor Lisa Hughes and Mayor Tom Menino at the have any questions about the extent to which a contribution may be deducted. Boston Harbor Hotel on Oct. 16. Book Prices: $50 each “Boston: All One Family” and “Boston: An Extended Family” Buy both books for only $75 Book sales benefit the Mary Casey Forry Foundation, Inc. Name...... Address...... City, State...... Zip...... Amount...... Credit Card Type...... Credit Card Number...... Expiration Date......

We accept Fax with your Visa or Mastercard. Fax this order form to 617-825-5516 Mary Casey Forry Foundation, Inc. 150 Mt. Vernon Street, Suite 120, Dorchester, MA 02125 Mary Casey Forry’s daughter Maureen serves as 617-594-4642 • marycaseyforry.org Foundation president. Page 14 November 2007 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com Boston irish Boston Irish Arts, Entertainment, Travel & More R‘Iep Wantort Peoplee to rLeave with a Click in Their Heels and a Smile on Their Faces’ By Peter F. Stevens acclaimed works, as evi- dan” had lived in Boston of classical music, the is someone “in his head” land he left behind and of BIR Staff denced by The Lepers of for some five years since Brendan of Boston would at all times and judging assimilating completely to Ronan Noone is one of Baile Baiste, The Blowin leaving his native Ireland. be recognizable to his each and every decision his new country. Then, a the nation’s rising play- of Baile Gall, and The In Ireland, the emotional family and friends back he makes. Of course, letter comes from Ireland wrights, and with good Atheist. Noone’s new baggage he left behind in Ireland as the young that someone in large and all the memories and reason. Irish-born and play, Brendan, will run at included a domineering man they knew. Bren- part is his strong-willed bonds of his old turf come raised, and a graduate of the Calderwood Pavilion, mother whose presence dan, however, struggles mother. through the door with BU’s prestigious graduate Boston Center for the permeates his psyche and within himself as his new As Brendan prepares to the letter. How Brendan playwriting program, he Arts, through November the emotional and literal life and routines supplant be sworn in as an Ameri- handles it all is funny, has carved out a burgeon- 17. floorboards of the play. more and more of the old, can citizen, he appears on moving, touching, and ing reputation for finely The namesake and pro- From his “Two-Pint the immigrant unable to the verge of pulling him- ultimately uplifting. wrought and critically tagonist of the play, “Bren- Wednesdays” to his love dispel a sense that there self permanently from the (Continued on page 16) Ceol Agus Craic Susan Gedutis Lindsay Things to Be Thankful For Ceol Agus Craic readers may have figured out that I champion the unsung heroes. Yet, there are reasons that the big names are big, and usually it’s not just because they like it that way. It’s because they’re doing something worthwhile, and with Thanksgiv- ing coming, it’s nice to give thanks (again) to those who consistently wind up the jig and reel machine in Boston. They deserve it. 1. Larry Reynolds. As the voice behind traditional music in Boston, the one that newspapers call when they want a comment on Irish music, as an undying support for Irish music in the city, and as the patriarch of a musical family who continues to carry the torch, he (supported by his wife Phyllis) is unparalleled. He helped to found the Boston Hanafin-Cooley Branch of the international Comhaltas Ceoltoiri Eireann, he makes sure that there are ceili dances and sessions twice a month in Watertown, anchors the Monday night session at the Green Briar, and helped to found the CCE Boston Music School, the only school dedicated to the teaching and learning of traditional Irish music. (cceboston.org) 2. The Irish Music Center at Boston College. Since 1990, the center has maintained an archive of thousands and thousands of hours of commercial and field recordings, videorecordings, sheet music, manu- At the end of a Dropkick Murphys show, it can be hard to tell where the stage ends and the audience scripts, photographs, memorabilia, and books about begins. Dropkick Murphys photo. (Continued on page 16) Ken Casey Talks About Loud Music, Family, and the Irish Tradition

By Susan Gedutis Lindsay what we do kind of bastardizes Irish music,” he said. The Dropkick Murphys have become the choice draft ”But we are also very respectful of the roots and wear pick of major Irish festival organizers and planners our influences on our sleeves. For every ten kids that hoping to attract a younger crowd. It hasn’t always get into Dropkick Murphys there’s six or seven that worked as they’d hoped, according to the band’s vocal- also listen to much more traditional forms, probably ist and founder Ken Casey: as a result of hearing us in the first place. You can’t be “Not necessarily in Boston, but in the past around shortsighted and the older Irish generation can’t think the country we’ve been asked by promoters to play that it’s bands like us that penetrate that music scene Irish festivals and they want their cake and be able that all of a sudden it’s gonna go to hell with crazy loud to eat it too—they want us to come in, bring in a new, music. There’s a respect for the music within it.” young generation, but then say, ‘For Christ’s sake, The Irish tradition is one of the few institutions turn it down. You don’t have to have it so loud.’ And left that Casey seems to believe in—though themes of we say, you can’t have it both ways.” family and neighborhood run strong throughout the Does he worry that they are straying too far from band’s newest album. Its closing song “Never Forget,” the source? “One school of thought would think that (Continued on page 19)

Handmade, Skillet Baked Irish Breads. Created in Ireland. Perfected in Boston. 617-364-1798 www.bostonirishbaking.com Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com November 2007 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 15 Celtic Sojourn Will Be Back at Emerson Majestic in December By Susan Gedutis year, O’Donovan hired looked at their roster and they might arrange such Lindsay Solas’ multiinstrumental- realized that in the par- things,” he added. Special to the BIR ist Seamus Egan to take ticipants cellist Natalie This is also an expan- December scenario: on the musical direction. Haas, fiddler Alasdair sive year in the Sojourn’s Christmas shop in Fan- “In the past, we did it as a Fraser, Solas fiddler Win- history: the Boston con- ueil Hall, take in the committee, and it worked ifred Horan, and guitarist certs will be followed holiday lights on Boston out fine,” O’Donovan said. Dougie MacClean, they by two performances in Common, and then it’s “We got great profession- had the makings of a full ’s Town just steps to the Emer- als on stage who love string quartet. “Seamus Hall Theater, and aired son Majestic Theater on working with each other. is now thinking that at on WNET, the New York Tremont Street, where But we recognized that least one of the pieces equivalent to Boston’s you can top off the day we needed to take some can be a string quar- WGBH television. Also, with Brian O’Donovan stress off the musicians, tet piece—most likely a this year, Sojourn cel- at the fith annual A who were burdened with traditional piece but ar- ebrates the release of its Christmas Celtic So- having to create their ranged,” O’Donovan said, very first DVD, a live high- journ concert, which own musical arrange- pointing out that all four definition taping of one of this year features Solas, ments, directions, and of these musicians have last year’s performances. singer Aoife O’Donovan, collaborations. So, this experience with classi- The program is scheduled Brian O’Donovan guitarist Dougie Ma- year we wanted to have cal as well as traditional to be broadcast over 128 cLean, musicians Alas- someone with the caliber music. MacClean is ac- public television stations dair Fraser Natalie Haas, and creativity of Seamus customed to working in nationally starting in Records on November 6. times are Thursday-Sat- and Paddy League, and as a musician to take that classical setting and with late October, with repeat More information is avail- urday at 8 p.m., with dancer Kieran Jordan on, so that the musicians string orchestra, Horan broadcasts on Sunday, able by visiting wgbh. Saturday and Sunday with fellow stepdancers can look at one person for was classically trained November 25, 7:30 pm, org. matinee performances Niall O’Leary, Darrah direction.” at New England Conser- Channel 2; and Monday, Due to heavy demand, at 3 p.m. Tickets are on Carr, and Ben Power. One that Egan is cook- vatory, Haas attended November 26, 9 pm, Chan- this year has been expand- sale now, available at 1- As always, this year’s A ing up, for example, is Juilliard. “We’ve got some nel 44. The DVD of the ed to eight performances: 800-872-8997 or online at Christmas Celtic Sojourn a great meeting of the serious firepower on stage 2006 show, “A Christmas December 13th, 14th, 15th maj.org/P2008/Celtic. with Brian O’Donovan strings. In planning meet- in terms of classical music Celtic Sojourn, Live,” will and 16th, and December html. WGBH members – eight performances in ings,JB06102STANHOPEAD Egan and O’Donovan 7/18/06 and 9:56the approachAM Page to2 how be released by Rounder 21st and 22nd. Show receive $5 off each ticket. all -- will build on what has made it successful in the past: its coziness, including holiday music, songs, dancing, poetry, and stories designed to warm even the most blus- tery winter day. According to Brian O’Donovan, who hosts the weekly program A Celtic Sojourn on WGBH 89.7, “What we present is the unspectact- ular Christmas show… Every other Christmas show seems to talk about the spectacular, or the Christmas extravaganza. We are the exact opposi- tion… what we want to achieve is two hours of respite.” The program is fast becoming a tradition in Boston—the Irish ver- sion of the Nutcracker, if you will—and that is due in part to its warm presentation. “Our audi- ence likes the notion, the absolute principle, that they have been invited into something, not to ob- serve but to be a part of it. The spontaneity, the low key aspect, the variety of it, and quite frankly, the sentimentality of it,” he said. “We are unabashed sentimentalists when it comes to Christmas.” Beyond that, one of the program’s other suc- cess is due in very large part to the high qual- ity of the performances. Finding our restaurant is easy. O’Donovan brings noth- ing but the best to the Boston stage. Specifically, Leaving is more difficult. he has invited musicians and dancers who can bring the spontaneity of an Irish house session to the Emerson’s majestic gold-leafed stage. “What we do with this, is we are gathering on stage with a whole bunch of musicians often who have never met each other or at least have never played together on a regular basis. The way the show works is that it’s not a concert or series of performances with these musicians, but it’s rather a gathering that they might have, on stage, and see what they can come up with together.” Historically, it’s been up to the musicians to think up their own music 154 Berkeley Street, Boston • 617-532-3827 and their own collabora- Reserve online at www.opentable.com tions, often by phone calls, e-mail, and in a few rehearsals right be- fore the event—but this Page 16 November 2007 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com Things to Be Thankful For (Continued from page 14) careers are in full swing, and they bring music, with a focus on documenting the energy, fresh ideas, and a very profes- history of Irish music in America. The sional attitude to Irish music. Most re- center also records performances and cently, kudos must go to the organizers interviews at Boston College, and works of the BCM Fest (Boston Celtic Music with the Center for Irish Programs to Festival), which this January 11-12 will sponsor Irish music events on campus, celebrate its 5th anniversary. BCMFest bringing an interesting array of lesser- organizers and a host of dedicated vol- seen but highly skilled Irish traditional unteers each year invite musicians both musicians to the Boston area. The Irish young and old, in hopes that the new gen- Music Center is widely regarded as eration and the tradition bearers all get the most significant collection of Irish a seat at the Celtic music banquet table. traditional music in America. (bc.edu/ The “middle generation” also includes the irishmusiccenter) many musicians who were out playing at 3. Brian O’Donovan and Celtic So- sessions nearly every night, long before journ. Brian’s weekly “Celtic Sojourn” any of the BCMFest crew even arrived radio program on National Public Radio in Boston. Their legends begin at the brings new Celtic music in a variety of 1970s sessions at Village Coach House forms to a very wide audience. His as- in Brookline, and continue to the present sociation with WGBH and public radio day, thanks to new venues such as the keeps Irish music neck and neck with Burren of Somerville and the many musi- other “high art” forms, such as classical cians who have anchored sessions there music and educational programming. since it opened in the mid-1990s. Larry Reynolds: Patriarch of a musical family who continues to carry the In addition, he directs the ICONS (Irish 6. The next generation. There’s a torch. Bill Brett photo. Connections) festival with the Irish core group of teens who take classes at Tonra, and a guidebook called Irish Bos- traditional music concerts, anchor ses- Cultural Centre and conducts hugely the Comhaltas school of music, that vol- ton, currently in its third printing. He sions, and maintain a Web presence for popular Christmas Sojourn concerts, unteer to help with the BCM Fest, and and Colette maintain a website, irish- their respective areas. These are three as well as a Celtic Sojourn concert at that gather on Saturdays at the Burren massachusetts.com. Quinlin is currently names… but there are many others. In St. Patrick’s Day. (See related story on Youth Session to play tunes. There are at work on a book that chronicles how addition to them, there are the mavens this year’s Celtic Sojourn Christmas at least two dozen of them in all—and Irish music came to the Boston market who don’t play professionally but who concert.) for fear of leaving someone out, I won’t and how it integrated and contributed love the music just as much as the pros. 4. The last generation. There is a list any names! Still, they are part of to the American sound, beginning from They have read and memorized the liner large group of musicians out there who’ve the future of Celtic music in the city. the release of Thomas Moore’s “Irish notes on every CD that’s come out since been playing Irish music since the 1940s Let’s hope college or other post-high- Melodies” in 1808 to the present day. 1933, and they’re the ones you can turn and before—both Irish born and first school activity doesn’t cart them away 8. World Music, based in Somerville. to when you want to know the name of generation Irish Americans. They played permanently. They are dedicated to booking some of that tune, or wonder what set “The High their first notes perhaps at the Irish 7. Mike and Colette Quinlin and the more well-known artists like Mary Reel” is usually played in. Social Club in Dorchester, or the dance the Boston Irish Tourism Associa- Black, Solas, Lunasa, and other of the 11. And above all and perhaps most halls of the 1950s, or the showbands of tion. Boston is recognized as an Irish larger Irish acts. Keeping the big names important: the fans. Remember those the 1960s. We are lucky to have fiddlers city, and so many visitors want to take coming through ensures a higher profile who’ve been dancing weekly to the old Brendan Tonra, Eddie Murray, Paddy in its Irish heritage; BITA bridges the to Irish music on the overall musical Irish waltzes for years at the Irish Social Cronin, and Larry Reynolds, flute/whis- gap for them, promoting a wide variety landscape. Club in West Roxbury on Friday nights, tlers Jack Conroy, the late Jimmy Hogan of artists and organizations to the larger 9. The small venues who give a often to the music of the showbands, such and Gene Frain, pianists Tom Garvey, tourism market. It represents Comhaltas chance to lesser known artists. as those of Noel Henry and Andy Healey. Helen Kisiel, Kitty D’Entremont, and Ceoltoiri Eireann, the Irish Cultural Public libraries, social clubs, the Irish Maybe the latter don’t cross paths so Frank Storer, accordionists Jack and Centre, the Eire Society, various other Cultural Centre—and while they’re a much with the hip, young “Celtic” minded John Martin, Mickey Connolly, Joe Der- cultural organizations, as well as high- little farther west, it would be remiss set in the city… but their contributions rane, Tommy Barton, Pat O’Brien, Leo profile artists like Damien Rice, Delores not to mention the very active Ancient to keeping Irish music vibrant in all its Daly, Sr., Tim O’Connell, and the late, O’Riordan and , and Sinead Order of Hibernians in Worcester, who forms should not go unnoticed. These are great Joe Joyce, harmonica player Mike O’Connor and Damien Dempsey. BITA’s book tasteful traditional music concerts also the ones who love the music, buy Connolly—and many others who I will mailing list includes more than 6,000 and also a weekly session. the recordings that the rest of the crew be very sorry to have missed mentioning! names. Mike himself moved to Boston in 10. The Mavens. Irish music en- puts out, attend the concerts, listen to (Please forgive me.) 1980, is a flute and whistle player, and thusiasts like Bill Black of Cape Cod, the radio programs… they’re the reason 5. The middle generation. Boston has published several books, including Gary Martin of Assonet, and Aisling that all of the above are here! has a crop of young people whose music a collection of compositions by Brendan Keating of Groton, all of whom host Review/Anúna Live at the Berklee Performance Center By Susan Gedutis Lindsay in Gaelic, Latin, Spanish, even Anúna recently stopped at the Czechoslovakian, all delivered Berklee Performance Center as with impeccable, classically part of its national tour in sup- trained vocal perfection. There port of its new DVD, CD, and was classical, folk, neo-Irish, public television appearance and contemporary. Many of the “Celtic Origins,” the most recent pieces were sacred. (Overheard: in a chain of contemporary Irish “I feel like I should be looking programs that public television for the Holy Water on the way uses to help support its member- out.”) Choral pieces were punc- ship drives. Anúna’s program is tuated by a couple of indulgent the newest member of a sophis- lost-love songs delivered solo ticated family that has included with acoustic guitar by Michael the Irish Tenors, Riverdance, Live at the Center, our view performance was the full-bore before referred to as the “Celts McGlynn’s twin brother John, and Celtic Woman. was more static (no changing instrumental complement, es- in Capes” fantasy, each woman who arranged and wrote several The DVD and CD recordings images or interesting camera pecially the uilleann pipes and in a long black velvet dress and of the group’s pieces. Though his are tight and polished, though angles to keep us visually the enormous booming percus- hooded robe, with long, flowing folky guitar solo pieces seemed the live performance at Berklee distracted). Instead, we relied sion. Still, master percussionist locks that conjure up the mysti- a little out of character to the was surprisingly informal, lack- on music director Michael Mc- Noel Eccles (formerly of Moving cal, unknown Celtic past. And rest of the performance live, ing the extravagant backdrop of Glynn to entertain us grandly Hearts and today the principal like Riverdance, Celtic Woman, they did seem to flow well in the DVD, which was filmed at and loosen up the otherwise percussionist with the National and other musical productions the DVD production. Holy Cross Cathedral in Cleve- very civilized program with Symphony Orchestra of Ireland) in its family, the girls are as The more exciting aspects of land, Ohio, and was greatly his very witty stage banter. filled up the sound remarkably talented as they are gorgeous: the performance were the pieces amplified by the use of - effec The environment was comfort- with rhythm using very simple very, very. Anúna responds with in which the singers stationed tive lighting, lit candelabras, able but compared to what and portable percussion instru- great appeal to anyone with an themselves throughout the illuminated stained glass, and one might expect of a $40-$50 ments. appreciation for a finely tuned audience, creating a captivat- smoky dry ice, all of which felt ticket price, the performance Anúna claims its Irish roots, choral sound awash with Irish ing and eerie surround-sound appropriate to the group’s pre- felt just a little sparse and singing several songs in Irish sound. theater experience These pieces sentation. incomplete. Missed in the live and capitalizing on what I have The program included songs (Continued on page 27) Ronan Noone’s Latest Work, ‘Brendan,’ Is More Than an ‘Irish’ Play (Continued from page 14) How they react is in some Part of that adaptation resents hope, something BIR: The play has lay- dophiles, just a prostitute Recently, Ronan Noone cases how I reacted. is that when you visit better. In Brendan, one of ers that resonate well with the proverbial but discussed Brendan, as BIR: For many immi- home, things change in the characters talks about beyond the funny and genuine heart of gold, well as his own experi- grants, there’s a strong the way people view you. what it is to be an Ameri- compelling path of an Irish likable people coming to ences, with the BIR. sense of having one foot In Ireland, I learned that can, and it is something immigrant to American terms with themselves, BIR: What was the still planted in where because of the world situa- of a emotional discourse citizenship. each other, and America. genesis of the play for they’ve come from and tion – the U.S. in Iraq and on genuine American Noone: It does. From Brendan depicts how you? Some might conjec- the other now planted in other controversial poli- virtues – tempered by breaking old bonds with- immigrants come to Amer- ture that a great deal is America. Was it like that cies – I became something reality. Those values are out destroying them and ica for refuge, to work personal, even autobio- for you? of a verbal target, “A Guest still real. the relationship between hard, and to create new graphical. Noone: I don’t feel that of the Nation,” as Frank BIR: Those values per- mothers and sons to the lives. Noone: To some ex- tug so strongly any more, O’Connor wrote. That’s meate the play. smaller things such as BIR: What would you tent, yes, but it’s no more but for many immigrants not a political statement Noone: Yes, they do. changing pronunciations most like audiences to autobiographical than – in varying degrees – it’s on my part, just a state- Immigrants like Bren- of words to fit in better, take away from a night my previous work. The certainly there. At some ment of fact. dan want still to become the play is at its core a love with Brendan? easiest way to explain it, stage, most immigrants The other fact is that no Americans. I see myself story. It’s that “rarest” of Noone: I want people I think, is that many of make the decision not to matter what, America is as an American writer works [Noone says with a to leave the theater with my play’s characters go go back. That’s when the still a refuge and a place of now – with an Irish back- chuckle] – an Irish play a click in their heels, a through emotions I went adaptation to America opportunity for people all ground that will always be that’s uplifting. smile on their faces, and through as an immigrant. really comes. over the world. It still rep- with me. It’s a comedy – no pe- an understanding of some- Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com November 2007 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 17 usic BIR M Performing mostly songs from his hit recording “Seize known as the the Day,” he will tour in support of his newer album host of week- To Hell or Barbados in coming months. Don’t miss his ly Saturday CD Roundup upcoming to-be-announced date at Boston’s rock club, Irish sessions The Paradise. (Theology appears on Koch Records and at the Irish Susan Gedutis Lindsay That’s Why There’s Chocolate and Vanilla, Sinead’s Cultural Cen- own label imprint.) tre in Canton, Sinead O’Connor • Theology has released Also new: an EP “A Na- In October, Sinead O’Connor performed at Boston’s tion of One,” Orpheum Theater to support her newest release, Theol- Kíla • Gambler’s Ballet a concise and ogy. Fans at the almost-full Orpheum heard hits from Maybe their best yet, this relatively short 8-song CD poignant col- her entire career, as well as several of the songs from features the band’s trademark psychedelic take on Irish l e c t i o n o f her new two-CD set. In contrast to those years when she music, with a originals that made headlines with angry diatribes against all that combination document a she said was not God, this new release and the concert of grooving man torn between two countries, loving and hating revealed a humble, docile, and even painfully shy per- original jams both at the same time. The recording is available by former more and chantlike, visiting his Web site, seankane.us. c o n t e n t t o tribal sound- praise what ing songs sung • Live in Concert: she believes is in Irish. A Kíla God. Dressed show is an ex- On the Road Live in Germany characteris- perience, not a This 106-minute DVD recording features an evening tically in an performance— of this legendary ballad androgynous a challenge to band in more recent man’s suit, capture on a years, with Ronnie she was poised recording, but Drew at the helm, and pulled to- G a m b l e r ’ s performing live to a gether—quiet, Ballet does it contemporary live au- even, until she beautifully. dience in Germany. began singing. The recording is a new mark of refinement in the Also includes a docu- Perhaps now band’s acrobatic ability to move smoothly from Irish mentary “tour diary” of a little more to Eastern European klezmer sounds that are rever- sorts, with interviews husky as the ently tucked into a deep, make-you-wanna-dance of the band talking salt and pep- contemporary groove. about their lives, their per make an appearance in her crew cut, her voice was careers, and their mu- as dynamic as ever, ranging from a hoarse whisper to sic. Formed in 1962, a call so strong and clear it seemed to be intended to The Chieftains • Live Over Ireland: the Dubliners’ 45 years the back wall of the theater. The show included Water from the Well of shanties, ballads, several of her hit selections since she first came onto the In this 110-minute DVD released on Eagle Vision dances, tunes, and scene in 1987, including her multiple-award-winning Classics, the Chieftains travel to geographic locales humor are woven into “Nothing Compares 2 U.” Also featured were several that have influenced the very fabric of Irish songs from Theology, a release that she says is “an at- them throughout their culture. If you love the tempt to create a place of peace in a time of war.” CD1, careers. The record- Dubliners, you’ll enjoy hearing “Wild Rover,” “Dirty Old the acoustic “Dublin Sessions,” was produced by Irish ing includes stories, Town,” “Song For Ireland,” “Ffinnegan’s Wake,” and traditional musician Steve Cooney (In Tua Nua, the interviews, songs, and other classic anthems. (Eagle Vision Classics) Chieftains, Mary Black). CD2, dubbed “The London tunes, filmed in some Sessions,” was produced by Ron Tom and includes a of the band’s favorite full band. She said that all of the songs on the album spots all over Ireland. are based on scripture, opening with the prayer-like Here harpist Derek “Something Beautiful,” which offers praise and thanks, Bell, fiddlers Martin and continues with Curtis Mayfield original, “We People Fay and Sean Keane, FOR THE RECORD Who Are Darker Than Blue.” Ensuing songs, includ- bodhran player-vo- Corrections: Because of editing errors, there ing “If You Had a Vineyard,” “The Glory of Jah,” and calist Kevin Conneff, were several mistakes of identification last month in a hidden track, “Hosanna Filio David,” continue the flute player Matt Mol- trend. This all starts sounding a little preachy, but it’s loy, and group founder the captions of photos accompanying Susan Gedutis not, really. The songs play like rock ballads, and her Paddy Moloney speak Lindsay’s set of stories: The woman pictured with singing is backed by a bass/guitar/drums, and aug- of memories of Irish her CEOL column is Aisling Keating. The fiddlers mented with accordion, keyboard, fiddle, and whistle. music, as well as the pictured playing at a concert atop the Childsplay sto- The live show wrapped up with several selections from band’s joys and con- ry on Page 18 are, from left, Hanneke Cassel, Aoife the recording, showcasing her recent reggae and ras- tinuing artistic chal- O’Donovan, Mark Simos, Roger Treat, Molly tafari explorations, including “The Rivers of Babylon” lenges. Features spe- Gawler and Bob Childs. The single captionless with new lyrics she wrote. (Reggae bass legend Rob- cial guests Ashley Mac Isaac, Altan, Steve Cooney, Van photo below that showed Bob Childs. And on Page bie Shakespeare guests on the album.) Powerful and Morrison, The Ballyfin Set Dancers, Tommy Peoples, 19, the picture at the top of the page featured, from poised, this is a more mature Sinead O’Connor that Los Lobos. (Eagle Vision Classics) left, fiddlers Debby Knight, Joe DeZarn, and Mark will surely reopen doors temporarily closed. Dublin’s Simos while Kieran Jordan and a fellow dancer Damien Dempsey opened the show, warming up the performed at far right, supported by the entire Sean Kane • A Nation of One cast of Childsplay. crowd with his always-honest, driven acoustic work. On the local front, Sean Kane, most recently best Page 18 November 2007 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com BIR Music Calendar MUSIC PICKS: LOOKING AHEAD Friday, 11/2, 8 p.m., p.m. and 7 p.m., two (2787), check website for (800-233-3123). See re- 972-8300, Ext 22; info@ 23rd Annual Holy Ghost shows. Alasdair Fraser venue: amazingthings. lated story this section. revels.org. Fathers Benefit Dance at and Natalie Haas perform org Beginning Friday, the Irish Social Club, $10, in 14th Annual Concert Wednesday, 12/05, 12/14, with multiple Many thanks to Billie 119 Park St., West Rox- of Scottish Music and 6:30 p.m., Irish Dance shows, The Christmas Hockett’s Celtic Calendar bury. Music by the Andy Dance. Theme “Across and Céilí w/Meghan Al- Revels, Sanders The- (music-for-robin.org) for Healy Band, refreshments, the Ages,” highlights len, Music by Séamus atre, 45 Quincy Street, much of this calendar Irish step-dancing, raffle, artists who have inter- Connolly and Larry Reyn- Cambridge, Mass. (617) information. cash bar. Tickets available preted and expanded the olds, Gasson Hall, Irish at Most Precious Blood Scottish repertoire from Room, Boston College; Rectory (617-364-9500) or the eighteenth century 617-552-3938, or irish@ iDance Hopes at the door. (See related to the twenty-first, and bc.edu. story, Page 3) who have enabled new Thursday, 12/06, 8 Saturday 11/03, 3 p.m., Father Peter Nolan– or- generations of fiddlers, p.m., “A Fine Winters to Learn Cross-Border Orchestra of ganizer Irish Social Club pipers, and dancers to Night” w/Matt & Shan- Ireland, Symphony Hall, Dance, West Roxbury. find their places in the non Heaton (Christmas Boston, $15-$30. This or- tradition. National Heri- show) $15/18, Club Pas- from Boston chestra brings 140 youth Kind, Folk Song Society tage Museum, 33 Marrett sim, 47 Palmer St., Cam- In early November, a Cultural Excellence in from Ireland, North and of Greater Boston, First Rd., Lexington (617-861- bridge. Canadian company called Newfoundland. South together with a choir Parish of Watertown, 35 6559), nationalheritage- Sunday, 12/09, 8 iDance (idance.ca) will While in Boston, they of almost 500 local children Church St, Watertown museum.org. p.m., Matt & Shannon travel to Boston as part of will visit the Irish Cul- representing many schools (fssgb.org) … 8 p.m., Oisin Saturday, 11/17, 8 Heaton, $10, Pingree’s a trade mission of 30+ At- tural Centre of New Eng- and localities in the Boston MacDiarmada and Louise p.m., The Greencards, Coffeehouse, First Con- lantic Canada companies. land and the Irish Music area. Joining the children Mulcahy, Katharine Cor- $15/$17, Narrows Center gregational Church, 100 iDance, the only dance Center at Boston College on stage will be one of Ire- nell Theater, Spring St., for the Arts, 16 Anawan Winter St., Norwood. school in Newfoundland to take a look at their pro- land’s leading tenors, Em- Vineyard Haven, Mass. St., Fall River, Mass. Beginning Thursday and Labrador (N&L) ex- grams, activities, events, manuel Lawlor. bso.org. (508-693-9294; 508-693- (508-324-1926), ncfta. 12/13 and running over clusively devoted to Irish and resources for the For more info, call Mary 6996), Kctconcerts.com. org/music.php; thegreen- eight days: Christmas dance, was founded by public. They’ll also meet Swanton at 617-291-0525. Tuesday, 11/06, 7 p.m., cards.com Celtic Sojourn with Brian Shawn Silver, a dancer with several festival orga- … 7 p.m., Glengarry Bhoys, Paddy Keenan (uilleann O’Donovan, evening and and businessman who nizers in hopes of bringing $15/$17, Narrows Center pipes), Connolly House, weekend matinee con- together with business their brand of Irish dance For the Arts, 16 Anawan Boston College, 300 Ham- December Saturday, 12/01, 8 certs, $25- $75, Cutler manager Sara Sheehan, to New England next St., Fall River, Mass. (508- mond St., Chestnut Hill, Majestic Theater, 219 hopes to establish a Center summer. 324-1926), ncfta.org/mu- Mass. 617-552-3938. p.m. The Glengarry Bhoys, (508-405-ARTS Tremont Street, Boston of Irish Dance, Music and Silver is traveling as sic.php. … 8 p.m., Finest Saturday, 11/10, 3 a cultural ambassador to remind Bostonians that Newfoundland is a premier location for Irish dance and culture in the world. Newfoundland has its own brand of Irish dance that includes both ceili style and an EIRE improvised version of step dancing that evolved most likely from the sean nós style. Folk dancing pub in Newfoundland today is similar to that of Cape Breton, but Silver’s school 795 Adams St. • Dorchester focuses on the more for- mal style of step dancing Tom Clifford’s that is closely regulated and sanctioned by T. C. R. “President’s Choice” G (An Coimisiun Le Rinci Gaelacha), the govern- Ireland on ing body of Irish dancing Serving Lunch & Dinner worldwide. Silver will perform at a private closing reception the move Every day, for the trade mission on Wed., Nov. 7, at the Bos- ton Marriott Quincy. presents 7 days a week -- SUSAN GEDUTIS Margaret Dalton LINDSAY & Erin’s Melody NEPONSET VALLEY APARTMENTS Harpist Eva G eraghty The Harney School Irish Step Dancers Associates Friday, Studio and 1-Bedroom Apartments Available November 30, 2007 in the desirable Cedar Grove section of Dorchester. 8:00 p.m. - midnight Studios reasonably priced at $750.00; Irish Social Club 1-bedroom units at $925.00; 119 Park Street, W. Robury, MA heat and hot water included. Donation $10.00 Short walk to the Red Line. Free off-street Parking. Washing Machines and Dryers in building. IRELANDONTHEMOVE.COM BRIGHTCOVE.TV (Search Ireland) Call Michael at 617.364.4000 SHAMROCKNATION.COM We Welcome Sponsors Call 617-331-8031 Geraghty Associates, Inc. Tom Clifford’s Property managers IRELAND ON THE MOVE P.O. Box 52, Readville, MA 02137-0052 P.O. Box 40, Readville, MA 02136 Tel: 617-364-4000 Fax: 617-364-3157 Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com November 2007 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 19 It’s a Real Trip Hanging Out With the Dropkick Murphys (Continued from page 1) duction. Rumor has it that the “The ” playing as im- The Dropkick Murphys have Dropkicks are Avalon’s biggest ages are projected on a screen, been around for more than ten draw, and this felt like a home- and the concert finishes with years with a loyal and ever- coming concert. This show was that Boston anthem, “Dirty growing cult following, but a big deal, as it was to be the Water.” In between was a punk what put them on the map was last show in Avalon in its cur- rock show that was old school their recent appearance on the rent state before it undergoes Boston hardcore, to its very core. soundtrack to the feature film renovation. It was loud, hard driving, high , not to mention Having said that, one impor- energy, and fun. The Bunker their Red Sox anthem, “Tes- tant thing to note: If you want Hill Pipe Band came out on sie,” which has been absorbed to actually get a good view of stage in their kilts, black tee into local baseball ritual like the stage at a Dropkicks show shirts, and Red Sox caps to join the seventh inning stretch and at Avalon, you have to push the band for the finale. At that the national anthem. And their your way to the front through point, the stage looked more like awaited sixth album The Mean- a mass of white arms, fluffy a reunion, and that’s typical. De- est of Times, released in Septem- sideburns, and green sox caps. spite their international status, ber, entered the Billboard Top You’ll also have to dodge the the Dropkicks retain a personal 200 Albums chart at #20. occasional body that flies by feel that is more old high-school So what? I saw The Departed overhead, and not be afraid to buddy than superstar. These are but was too busy watching get knocked across the shoulder the neighborhood heroes. And Matt Damon to notice the by a passing, er, dancer—danc- maybe that’s what makes them soundtrack. I don’t follow base- ing at the Dropkicks consists of so cool. More than a few bottles it was originally a rebellion generation. ball (gasp!!!), and worst of all, “moshing,” where people flew during the show, but they against the rockers who had “My grandparents listened I like folk music. I still hadn’t their bodies into each other in were tossed “up” not “at, as far become so superstarrish they to Irish music and my mother heard them. You could blame what looks suspiciously like a as I could tell—in good humor, were no longer of the people. listened to reggae,” he said. “I it on me being nearly 40, but barroom brawl. I played it safe not as weapons. Live, the Dropkicks retain that think it skips a generation. If my friend Tim, who scored us and stayed at the side of stage The show ended and the punk feel—a sense that we’re all my mother was into Irish music, these highly coveted tickets and for much of the show, where I Lucky 300 shuffled backstage, in it together, with no separa- I probably would have hated it, backstage passes for the sold- stood on tiptoe for a great view of where it was still more like tion of audience and band. because kids always want to out show, is older than I, and the backs of the other hundred an everybody-in neighborhood Still, the best way to actually do the opposite of the parents. he and his wife play in punk people that also had these back- open house than an exclusive hear the band may be to sit down That was the saving grace for bands. Go figure. stage—er, sidestage—passes. party for the beautiful people. with a recording, liner notes in me. I never really at the time The live show at Avalon on The live concert begins with That’s typical of the punk move- hand. The music is loud and felt overwhelmingly attached to Lansdowne was a good intro- Sinead O’Connor’s rendition of ment—arising in the late 1970s, guitar heavy, and drummer Irish music but at the same time Matt Kelly hits with the same subliminally I knew it all from sort of precision and power that hearing it in my surroundings takes out moving targets from as a kid.” , a Legendary Voice, 2,000 feet. Needless to say, it What turned him on to Irish can be hard to hear the lyrics. music was the band . Throughout the album, how- Ken said he was in his early Mixes Well with Ken Casey’s Crew ever, there are folky touches teens when the Pogues came One of the ways the Dropkick Murphys have song was three generations of Irish music singing that give the band its “Irish” along in the early 1980s. “This shown respect for their influences is to invite some together on one song. And it all happened seam- sound. More than one tune in opened my eyes that it was of Irish music’s elder statesmen to join them. Their lessly. It sounds like Ronnie should be in a punk Meanest of Times begins with cool for my generation, too… I new album The Meanest of Times, includes guest band, you know? And he’s just cool enough that Tim Brennan’s folky banjo or hope that kids who hear us will appearances by the Dubliner’s Ronnie Drew and he probably could and would pull it off.” Scruffy Wallace’s bagpipes, or research the roots of it, whether the Pogues’ on “(F)lannigan’s Ball,” In conversation and in the album liner notes, the perhaps a slow-sung verse—any it be the Pogues and back to an original Boston take band sings praises and all of which then get sum- more traditional music like the on the famous dancehall to Drew, who joined marily plowed over from behind Dubliners and Clancy Brothers, brawl, “Lannigan’s Ball.” them in studio after by the barreling Mack-truck of a or the origins of , like This is not the first time having been through full band. Many have compared and Stiff Little Fin- they’ve done that—for a recent bout with the Dropkick Murphys to the gers. We always try to promote example, Pogues front- cancer, losing his Pogues, though the former what influenced us to younger man Shane MacGowan wife, and suffering sounds less like the latter than generations and turn kids on to joined them on their 2000 with hip problems. like the two bands’ shared influ- both of those styles.” record “Sing Loud Sing “We kept saying, ences, the . He points out that though the Proud.” (In the studio it ‘Ronnie are you sure Ken Casey, the band’s lead vo- Pogues were adventurous and was Casey’s job to stand you want to do this calist, bass player, and founder perhaps even shocking for their beside notorious drinker another time?’ and he said, “We always consider our- time, the Dropkicks take that MacGowan and snatch kept saying ‘I’d love to selves a punk rock band first… energy one step further. Influ- the cigarette out of his Ronnie Drew with a few Dropkicks do it.’ He came down I like to make this analogy be- enced by the English punk bands hand each time his line and spent the day with tween us and the Pogues: The such as the Sex Pistols, but came, so he wouldn’t miss us in the studio and he Pogues are a traditional band also loyal to his Irish roots, the his entrance.) was so uplifting, in such good spirits, and just so with a punk rock influence, and Pogues were formed by Shane But in the case of the recent album, it was an positive about music… and here he is with all we’re a punk rock band with a MacGowan to bring a rebellious Irish music icon who volunteered to join them. his history and tradition and all the accolades, traditional influence.” punk spirit to Irish music. But Ronnie Drew, lead singer in the legendary ballad he’s saying, ‘Guys I’ll sing this a thousand times Casey’s Irish influence is in Casey says they don’t sound so band the Dubliners, introduced himself to the band if you need me to, to get it right.’ ” fact a few generations back—his tough to the new generation, a few years back when the Dropkicks performed Of course, Ronnie Drew only needed a couple great grandparents were Irish and that’s where the Dropkicks with the Pogues at a Dublin, Ireland gig. “Ronnie of takes. Casey said he found that inspirational. —but that bloodline runs strong pick up the ball. “Twenty years said he really liked our take on Irish music. He “The truth be told, a lot of these people that and steady as Boston’s Charles later if you want to reach the said, ‘I like how you’re keeping music alive and you meet that you looked up to as a kid – from River, and his Irish Catholic next generation of kids coming would love to work with you guys.’ ” Drew, whose my experience they’ve always let me down. For background seems most evident up, you’d better be louder and gravelly, guttural singing became the voice of the every ten you meet like that, when you meet a in the working class Boston faster or you’re not even going Dubliners after Luke Kelly’s untimely death of a Ronnie Drew or a Spider Stacy, it makes it all Irish values that have made the to reach them. Part of it comes brain tumor, is a suitable match for Casey’s growl worthwhile.” band the hard-driving elected with the times… you gotta be on “(F)lannigan’s Ball.” “The whole concept of that -- SUSAN GEDUTIS LINDSAY spokesman for Boston’s young more aggressive.” Ken Casey Talks About Loud Music, Family, and Tradition (Continued from page 14) niture to buy their toddler his has been his vision since Day what Irish music has been about made for each other.” for example, is a soft message first bed.) ”It would be hypocriti- 1, widespread fame and fortune historically. Casey refers to his fans as wrapped in a very tough-sound- cal to write about these topics is not the band’s primary goal. “You’re more apt to find a band “kids,” but it’s clear that he ing package: “When you got love then go on tour for two years. If “We’ve always judged our suc- [with this attitude] in our genre wouldn’t complain about a and we got family keep ‘em close we’re gone for three weeks, then cess by where we were with our than you are in some super rock little more recognition from an and don’t forget to hold them we’re home for at least a month peers in the punk rock world. I and roll band where it’s all about older audience. “On first listen, right there in your heart…” after that. … For that reason, guess we’ve gotten more main- the magazines and the models. older people say, “Oh, what is “It’d be so easy for a lot of we often don’t tour as long as stream attention since 2004, In my opinion, that’s never what this?” but they give it a chance people to take the accolades we should. I mean, we have an but I feel like in the world that traditional Irish music was because they know of the Irish and the people who want to agent in England that is always we travel in, we were successful about and it certainly was never influence, then it grows on them be friends now and forget the saying he needs to get this band the minute our fans kept coming what punk rock was about… The and they start to like the more people that you grew up with,” over here for more than two or to see us at the Rat [for many punk rock I grew up listening aggressive form. At the same Casey said. “But when you’re three weeks at a time, but we years, a punk rock destination to—old Boston hardcore—was time, we have so many punk not selling records and you’re say, ‘Well, you’re not gonna.’ You in ].” all about band and audience are rockers who would never give not a band anymore, where are may feel like you need that to In the end, it’s not so much one and no one is better than Irish music a chance. They those people going to be? All the break us into the larger circles, the performance or the image the other person. It’s a unity kind of like the melody and the people that stood by you your but if that’s what it takes, we’re of the band that seems to be kind of thing. In so many ways, enthusiasm that goes along with whole life will be there.” not gonna do it.” its strength. It’s what the band Irish music and punk rock go it, so we’re converting people to For Casey, his own wife and It is refreshing to see a band has to say and how it says it: hand in hand, whether it’s songs both styles… you came in for one two young children will always at the brink of fame and for- in straight talk that resonates and stories about rebellion, or and hopefully leave with both, be most important. (Our phone tune making human choices, well with the “average” guy or whether it’s the two greatest you know?” interview ended when he and his but though Casey is not afraid gal. That’s what punk rock is forms of party music on Earth. -- SUSAN GEDUTIS LIND- family arrived at Jordan’s Fur- to say that the band’s success about. And in many ways, that’s In every aspect, they’re just SAY Page 20 November 2007 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com Thirty-Two Counties

Antrim: While checking the pany that opened the Capella first year third-level students Colin River in preparation for a Castlemartyr in the summer. to the value of 1,000 euro each schools visit, education ranger The eighteenth century Dunboy in memory of the late Josie Paul Bennett came across an Castle was built by the Puxley Martin. Josie, a prime mover unusual find, the vertebrae of family who were involved in in the Credit Union in Leitrim a prehistoric sea creature. The the establishment of copper and in the restoration of the plesiosaur, known as the sea mines in the Allihies area, but Shannon Erne Canal, will be dragon, dates from some 190 latterly it was a total ruin with remembered in the Josie Martin million years ago. The seven Scots pines growing out of the Scholarships for Leitrim College centimetre vertebrae was per- tops of the walls. The completed Students which was launched fectly preserved in the river Capella Dunboy Castle Hotel recently in his home town of bank and has now gone on dis- will have 84 suites in addition Ballinamore. The launch took play at the park. Previous finds to a gourmet restaurant and a place in Kennedy’s Glenview at the river include sharks’ teeth leisure centre complete with House and among the speakers and a fossil of another extinct swimming pool and gymna- was chairman of the County reptile, the ichthyosaur, but this sium. Enterprise Fund John Harte is the first time that evidence of Derry: A Letterkenny teen- and Gerry McGee, who spoke the plesiosaur has been found ager who has traveled to New on behalf of the Credit Union in the Belfast area. York for major surgery to movement. Armagh: It appears that reconstruct his lower jaw was Limerick: Anyone with World Entertain- given a police escort through the ambition to take on the best ment, which is planning an streets of the city to the Mount in the world of snooker should evening’s entertainment at the Sinai hospital. Seventeen-year- have been at the Hilton Hotel in Odyssey, believe that a five- old Alan Doherty was with his Limerick late last month when month-old baby needs a seat to parents Danny and Bernie former champions Ken Doherty herself. That is the experience and last month underwent the and Ronnie O’Sullivan were of David and Sharon Sneddon second stage of the treatment scheduled to give a demonstra- from Lurgan who were hoping in a sixteen-hour operation. His tion. Members of the Victoria to take their eleven-year-old escort by the New York Police Snooker Club were to take on autistic son Kyle, with his two Department was arranged by the maestros, and part of the sisters, the older of whom also former councilor PJ Burke, who evening was given over to an has special needs, to see the enlisted the help of Inspector auction of one frame for a mem- show. Having paid for four tick- Paul McCormack of the New ber of the audience. This was ets they were told they would York Police Department, who the third time that Ray Scullion also need a ticket for little Toni- is himself from Donegal. from Castletroy had organized Anna, despite the fact that she Donegal: Commuting more a charity snooker night, and would be spending the entire than two hundred kilometres a this year the proceeds will go performance sitting on the lap day is the choice made by sol- to Down Syndrome Ireland. The of either of her parents. The dier Seamus Boyle, who moved Hilton Hotel gave the venue for Odyssey reported that the policy to Arainn Mhór after his son munity who worked to keep open poker but emphasizes that he is the evening free of charge. had been laid down by the WWE Paddy Joe was born three years border crossings that had been not a professional player. Longford: The Ballymacor- and not by the venue. ago. Seamus was determined to closed for security reasons. Most Kilkenny: Over the Bank mack Community Development Carlow: The official opening live on the island while working affected by the closures were Holiday weekend Kilkenny ex- Group, which was formed fol- of the refurbished Ben Mulhall at Finner Camp near Ballyshan- farmers, but they also forced perienced its first food fair when lowing the completion of the Memorial Park in Clonegal, non, and originally used his people to make long detours to Savour Kilkenny ran over four parish’s community centre, has carried out by Minister of State own rigid inflatable to cross to attend church or to visit friends days. Officially opened by John a number of ambitious projects John Browne, had two special Burtonport, since the regular or relatives. A plaque has also McKenna of the Bridgestone in the pipeline. These include a guests, one of them former ferry didn’t leave until nine each been unveiled at the spot dedi- Guide Books, the fair featured sports and recreational facility, international footballer Paul morning. However he has now cated to the border busters. a gala dinner, a Tennessee the construction of a children’s McGrath. The other special set up his own ferry service to ac- Galway: The transmission Ho-Down and a cookery dem- playground, and the provision of guest was, of course, Margaret commodate others on the island of a commercial radio message onstration by Kilkenny man an all-weather pitch to include Mulhall, widow of the man who who work on the mainland, and from Europe to Canada was cel- Garrett Byrne, now head chef a children’s playing pitch and gave his name to the facility despite the long daily journey ebrated last month in Clifden. at Chapter One in Dublin. One a walkway track at Stonepark. and who devoted so much time he is at home shortly after six Guglielmo Marconi transmit- of the highlights of the weekend After completing fundraising to to the children of Clonegal. A o’clock each evening to his wife ted a message on October 17, was a gingerbread village on buy a site for the sports facilities, new community centre and Louise and children Paddy Joe 1907 from Derrygimla bog just display at The Tholsel. This the group has now purchased a pitches are the result of years and Gina. outside the town, which was was created with the help of site on which to build a house of fundraising by volunteers Down: A monument dedi- picked up in Newfoundland. local schoolchildren, who were which will be the first prize in in the area. Both the park and cated to all servicemen who have Attending the centenary cel- led in the project by art director a monster draw which will also the new community centre were been killed since the end of the ebrations were his daughter Drew Snider and Derek O’Brien include a car, an Australian blessed by parish priest Father Second World War, which was Princess Elettra Marconi and of Coco Zen. holiday, and a shopping spree Joe Fleming and curate Father unveiled in Staffordshire last his grandson Prince Guglielmo. Laois: Local poet Pat Boran, in New York. Brendan Howard, before guests month, was constructed by a A book by Princess Elettra about who is a previous winner of Louth: A chance meeting at attended a reception in the company based in Kilkeel. The her father was launched during the Patrick Kavanagh Poetry an airport has led to a Dundalk centre’s function room. workers at McConnell and Sons the celebrations. Other events Award, last month unveiled a man appearing in cartoon form Cavan: The newly refur- spent some eighteen months on included a guided walk of the seat beside the canal bank in in the Beano comic, along with bished library in Bailieborough the project, using approximately Marconi station, an operatic Vicarstown to mark the 103d Rodger the Dodger. Gerry Fo- was to open Sept. 29 just in one thousand tons of stone, all concert and a royal gala ball. birthday of the Monaghan poet. ran from Muirhevnamor was time for the annual Children’s sourced in Portland. The monu- Kerry: When Maureen Cro- A unique monument has been chatting to Alan Digby, editor Book Festival. To mark the ment includes a twelve-metre nin of St. Brendan’s Terrace in created to the poet’s memory by of the Beano, at Heathrow opening a collaborative exhi- high obelisk and a curved wall Killarney celebrated her 70th McKeon Stone from Stradbally and told him he was a lifelong bition, entitled “Surface” and on which all the names were birthday her children knew and its placement on the canal fan of the comic. He also man- grant-aided by the Arts Council, engraved with the use of a there was no point making it a bank is a joint initiative be- aged to convince the editor to has been mounted by Noelle special machine. A group from surprise party as their mother tween the Patrick Kavanagh include him in an edition and McAlinden and Roisin Duffy. the company, including director was bound to find out. However Appreciation Society and the the comic’s cartoonist drew his The exhibition will run until Wesley McConnell, traveled to she did have one surprise the Vicarstown Youth Club. The character after looking him up mid-November. Meanwhile the Britain to attend the unveiling following day, from a man who seat is complemented by three on his website. He is known in children will celebrate their ceremony, which was carried had been unable to join in the sister stones and the unveiling the comic strip as Gerry the Poet special week with storytellers out by Queen Elizabeth. celebrations at the Killarney ceremony included readings of and at one point the character Niall De Burca and Billy Teare. Dublin: Sophie Cashell from Avenue Hotel. Attending the their own work by children from announces his intention to walk In addition, author Liam Far- Balbriggan has reached the half past ten Mass the follow- local national schools. home to Dundalk. He was to ap- rell will relate the story of the finals of a reality television ing morning in the cathedral, Leitrim: Seven Credit Unions pear in the Hallowe’en edition big bad wolf, Aubrey Flegg will show focused on classical mu- Maureen was both surprised in the county, along with the at the end of the month. give readings of his own work sicians. The nineteen-year-old and embarrassed to hear Fa- County Enterprise Fund, have for older children, and there pianist was one of thousands ther Kevin McNamara invite come together to fund seven (Continued next page) will be competitions for all age of applicants to Classical Star, the entire congregation to sing groups. a search by BBC television for Happy Birthday to her. In ad- Clare: The county council a classical musician who can dition to her family, Maureen’s is to honor one of its special widen the music’s appeal to ten grandchildren were also Ireland’s Weather athletes with a civil reception. the general public. Sophie and at the party, as were her two William Loughnane, from the eight other finalists spent sisters, Carmel and Peggy, and Clooney/Quin, who competed three weeks at a Music Academy her brother Timothy. Reported Monday, as a gymnast in the Special under the direction of musician Kildare: Liam Flood, a retired October 29, 2007 Olympics in Shanghai, returned Matthew Barley, and two of the bookmaker from Maynooth, has home with seven medals, six nine will be sent home each week won his 25,000 euro entry fee by Liam Ferrie golds and one bronze. The son until just three remain. These to a televised poker game with of Liam and Rose Loughnane, three will then have six weeks to an outlay of just $68. The Lad- William entered five categories, prepare for a final performance brokes Poker Million VI will be Little to complain about the pommel horse, the rings, that could win them a recording televised soon, when the sixty- Monday was damp but three fine days followed horizontal bars, parallel bars, contract. five-year-old will play against before wind and rain hit us on Friday. It did clear up in the and floor. He gained his exper- Fermanagh: What must top European poker players in afternoon and Saturday was mostly overcast before we were tise at St Clare’s School in Ennis surely be the most unusual mon- the hopes of progressing to the hit by more stormy weather on Saturday night. Sunday started and has said he would like to ument to arise from the Troubles finals in December and a share bright and sunny but gave way to occasional showers. coach gymnastics in future. The was unveiled in Kinawley last of the top prize of 2,150,000 Showery conditions will continue on Monday but that should motion for the civic reception month. A digger used by the so- euro. Liam, who was born in be followed by mostly dry weather although some rain is for William was proposed by called “border busters,” which the house beside the Salmon possible on Friday before a bright, cold and frosty weekend. councillors Pat Daly, Pat Hayes had lain unused in a ditch for Leap, had shops in Maynooth, and Sonny Scanlon. fifteen years, now has pride of and Tallaght, and Latest Temperatures: Cork: A castle burned by the place at Gortoral Bridge. It is a has also successfully owned Day 11C (52F)...... Night 5C (41F) IRA in 1921 is to be transformed monument to those from both racehorses. Last year he made into a hotel by the same com- sides of the border, and the com- a total of 200,000 euro through Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com November 2007 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 21 News Direct From Ireland

Archbishop of Armagh and people of goodwill will share in North, to be staggered over Primate of All Ireland Dr. this.” They also referred to “a time a number of years, can be Sean Brady is to be made a of unprecedented hospitality, Ireland Today accommodated by voluntary cardinal, the Vatican announced friendship and collaboration redundancy. The losses are part last month. It is almost exactly between our local churches.” Emigrant’s Siobhan King of a station-wide cut in staff of 11 years since the 68-year-old- Taoiseach Bertie Ahern 2,800 by the broadcaster. old native of Laragh, Co. Cavan, was at the Royal Irish Acad- Marries a Man of Clare O n e o f a n u m b e r took over as Archbishop of Ar- emy on Oct. 14, the 125th of cases of birth cer- magh from Cardinal Cahal Daly. anniversary of the birth of She Met In Boston tificate fraud relating to The appointment means that for Eamon de Valera, to launch a children born in the Rotunda Hos- the first time Ireland will have new book about the former Tao- The wedding took place in Co. Mayo last month of Siob- pital was highlighted on RTE’s three cardinals although Cardi- iseach and President written by han King, a former editor of the print editions of The Irish Liveline programme last month. nal Daly and Cardinal Desmond historian Diarmuid Ferriter. Emigrant. It was while Siobhan was working in Bos- A mother who went to register her Connell are too old to vote in a “Judging Dev,” said the Tao- ton that she met her future husband, Padraig Gar- son’s birth was told that it had al- papal conclave. Dr. Brady was iseach, will help restore some rahy of Co. Clare. The marriage took place in the ready been registered, by an Irish “taken aback” at the news and balance to the legacy of his Church of Our Lady Help of Christians in Swinford. The woman and a Romanian saw his appointment not just an predecessor, about whom there couple plan to live in the Co. Mayo town from where Siobhan will con- man. Although the couple honor for him but “an honor for has been much negative com- tinue as compiler of our online business publication, Professional were detained, the fact the Church in Ireland” and “an ment in recent years. Ahern Ireland. Coincidentally, while Siobhan traveled abroad to meet that the CCTV cameras in the reg- expression of the Pope’s confi- spoke of de Valera’s “inspiring a Clare man, her mother Mary emigrated to London in the istry office were out of order that dence in the progress achieved leadership” in difficult times but 1960s and also met a Clare man, Mick King. day meant there was insufficient in the North.” referred to what he saw as his big- evidence for conviction. Now the In welcoming the news Presi- gest failure -- his inability to end will just put this on a statutory Minister was appointed but he mother’s only recourse is a DNA dent Mary McAleese described emigration. The author said he footing. It is known, however, that wasn’t iformed until the end test, which she cannot afford. Archbishop Brady as “a man of believed it was time to bring drunk drivers have frequently of July. Opposition politicians A g e A c t i o n I r e l a n d great personal integrity, kind- Eamon de Valera back in from escaped prosecutions because no chose not to believe that Dempsey has introduced a new ness and goodness, a man who the cold. Those who claimed breath tests were carried out after was unaware of the situa- DIY service for older leads by personal example.” that our longest serving Tao- accidents, some of them fatal. tion and have attacked him people, a “care and repair” Messages of congratulations iseach “had done little that This situation has added to the to the point of calling for his service by means of which small were also received from Tao- was useful and much that was distress of the victims’ rela- resignation. The secretary repair jobs around the house will iseach Bertie Ahern; from the harmful” offered, he argued, “a tives. general of the Department, be carried out by volunteers. leaders of the three other main very damning and very inaccu- On a visit to Ireland Julie O’Neill, is to investigate The scheme has begun in both churches in Ireland, Archbishop rate judgment.” The book has organized by the Dublin the matter and is expected to Dublin and Galway, with older Alan Harper of the Church of been published to complement Chamber of Commerce, conclude that the omission was people paying only for the cost Ireland, Dr John Finlay of the a new nine-part television Governor of Maryland Mar- a simple mistake. Dempsey’s of materials and the shortfall Presbyterian Church, and the documentary, using the same tin O’Malley spoke of the immediate predecessor, Martin being made up by a 250,000 euro Rev. Roy Cooper of the Meth- time title. The series, which benefits to the capital of Cullen, has denied any knowl- Irish Life fund. The volunteers odist Church.; and from the will be introduced by the author, having a directly elected edge of the memo, which arrived will confine their activities to Office of the First Minister started on RTE on Oct. 28. mayor. O’Malley was seen as at the Department in on June 13. relatively simple tasks from and Deputy First Minister The Government has de- highly effective during his six First Minister Rev. Ian changing a light bulb to installing at Stormont. cided to make compulso- years as mayor of Baltimore and is P a i s l e y a n d D e p u t y a smoke alarm. For more complex In other church news of ry the breath-testing of often spoken of as a future Ameri- First Minister Martin jobs a register of recommended note, in his private chapel in drivers involved in serious can President. The idea of Dublin McGuinness met a group tradesmen will be maintained, Ballina, Bishop of Killala Dr. accidents, except where medical having a directly elected lord of senior business people and knowledgeable volunteers John Fleming last month re- requirements dictate otherwise. mayor may come to fruition in the from the US last month will advise the old person on ceived into the Catholic Church The general reaction is that this foreseeable future as Minister when the group arrived on likely costs. Anita Henderson, the wife of is something that should have for Local Government John a two-day fact-finding visit One member of the Intergov- the Church of Ireland Bishop happened long ago and Fine Gormley is known to favor the during which they attended a ernmental Panel on Climate of Tuam, Killala and Achonry. Gael claims to have forced the idea. lunch at the Belfast Harbour Change, which has shared Mrs. Henderson’s husband Government’s hand on the issue; It emerged last month that Commissioners. Originally the Nobel Peace Prize with and family accompanied her the announcement came just officials at the Department the organizers of the visit ex- former US vice-president Al to the chapel. The event has hours before the Dail was due to of Transport had been informed pected four or five compa- Gore, is a scientist from Ahogill, been given the unanimous debate a FG motion on the mat- in mid-June that Aer Lingus was nies to send representatives, Co. Antrim. Professor Neil Adger support of both bishops. In a ter. Minister for Transport Noel planning to transfer four Heath- but in the event, 20 large is professor of environmental sci- joint statement they said, “Her Dempsey claims that gardai were row slots from Shannon to Bel- US corporations took part in the ences at the University of East decision, made after much heart- already instructed to carry out fast. The first intimation came exploratory mission. Anglia and has been involved in searching, deserves the respect breath tests following an accident the day before the Minister The BBC is hoping that climate research for the past 15 of us all and we trust that all and the proposed legislation for Transport Noel Dempsey the loss of 110 jobs in the years.

Thirty-Two Counties From Mayo to Wicklow

(Continued from page 23) pion. Christina had to travel Roscommon, and Knockcrock- logical dig last month by the units. And close by, on Pearse Mayo: A bid to raise 100,000 to Belgrade to meet her op- ery and on to Athlone. Among television crew from Time Street, developer Damien Kelly euro by a group of radio present- ponents from Turkey, Russia the organizers of the venture Team. The crew wwas investi- has plans for a 3-million euro ers was so successful that they and Italy before squaring up to were Commandant Pat Bruen, gating the remains of the castle shopping mall which he hopes eventually raised 178,000 euro Reke Kempt from Hungary in Sergeant John Fahy, and Lieu- as well as an adjacent cottage to have open by March of next for Mayo Roscommon Hospice. the final. In other years she has tenant Hugh Lynn. that has been unused since the year. A further boost to the area The presenters from Midwest been runner up on one occasion Sligo: Following the recent mid-nineteenth century. The will be the proposed extension Radio included Teresa O’Malley, and the winner of the bronze visit to Sligo of Michael Flatley, castle, the main residence of to the Shamrock Lodge. Tommy Marren, Angelina Nu- medal on six occasions, so this where he launched Sligo Live, the O’Neills, was burnt at the Wexford: When White’s of gent, Viv Brennan, Chris Car- was a special win. Christina was the mayor Jonathan McGoldrick beginning of the seventeenth Wexford brings back again this roll, David Cawley, Paul Claffey, a member of the Irish National proposed to the council that the century as the English army year an outdoor ice rink, they are and Padraic Walsh. They car- Team which also dancer be granted the Freedom advanced into Ulster. While in taking the precaution of putting ried out the seven challenges, brought home one silver and of the City. This was adopted Dungannon the television crew in place an overhead cover. Last including two record breakers; two bronze medals. unanimously and last month also launched the Northern year conditions at the rink were they held the biggest ever radio Offaly: The present record Councilor McGoldrick received Ireland Archaeology Forum, a problematic due to the change- quiz and also organized the lon- for the number of siblings tak- confirmation that the honor is to body formed to raise awareness able weather, but this year that gest line-dance on a racetrack. ing part in a marathon stands be accepted. The conferring will of the archaeological heritage of should not be a problem when A car boot sale, a mystery tour, at thirteen, with the Weisse possibly take place in February, the North. the rink opens at the beginning a factory talent show and the family from having although no date has yet been Waterford: At the old Na- of December. It will be available production of a three-act play this year broken the record of set, and it is understood that tional School in Butlerstown until January 6 to everyone were also accomplished, while twelve set by the Irwin family Flatley will be accompanied by last month, a ceremony took over the age of six, and will perhaps the biggest challenge from Donegal. However the re- his parents; his father is a native place to commemorate Father also have a protective barrier was the staging of four variety cord was to be challenged again of Culfadda. Other recipients Rufus Halley, who was killed in to help those not so steady on shows on the one day in the four in the Dublin City Marathon of the Freedom of Sligo include the Philippines six years ago. At their skates. An art competition corners of the county. late last month (after the BIR Mother Teresa and Senator the nineteenth century school, for schoolchildren will ensure Meath: Chief executive of deadline) when fifteen siblings Michael Yeats. now to be known as The Father that at least two classes, one Tayto Ray Coyle admits that of the O’Donoghue family from Tipperary: Minister for So- Rufus Halley Centre, a plaque primary and one secondary, will his herd of buffalo, kept on a Birr were to take part in the run, cial and Family Affairs Martin was unveiled in the presence of have a complimentary hour of farm just outside Ashbourne, sponsored by Lucozade Sport. Cullen last month performed Father Halley’s family, friends, ice skating. started out as a bit of a hobby And two members of the fam- the official opening of a new and colleagues, some of them Wicklow: The Tidy Towns with 28 imported twelve years ily, Noel and Mary, came from 24-million euro rural home old classmates from Waterpark committee in Rathdrum is ago, but now the farm has 264 America to take part. The broth- and farm for adults with dis- College. The unveiling of the already looking ahead to next animals. Ray has now applied ers and sisters, aged between abilities. The complex is based plaque, which was organized year’s competition and has to develop the farm into a major thirty-two and fifty-two, will be at the Camphill communities by a group of parishioners, worked hard to reopen the for- visitor centre that will incor- running to raise funds for Down facility at Knocklofty near followed a Mass in St. Mary’s mer Mass path at the back of porate some three and a half Syndrome Ireland. Clonmel and will soon take in Parish Church. the old VEC school. They spent kilometres of a walking trail and Roscommon: Late last its second group of new resi- Westmeath: It might seem some 4,000 euro on the path, will feature twenty-two points month, as part of the People dents. It is built on a three and to the residents of Athlone removing undergrowth and of interest. One of these will be in Need fundraising effort, a half acre site donated by local that all the development was laying and rolling heavy stone. a replica Native America village those members of the Army farmer Donal McGrath, whose taking place on the east side of A fence has also been placed in with a lodge that can seat 140 Reserve who are based in Boyle son Marcus was one of the first the town, but soon it will be the position at the foot of the path children, and other stops on the donned their uniforms to carry residents. And at the ceremony turn of the western section, with and they propose to erect a gate route will feature wild boar, a stretcher through the towns the proceeds of a fundraising the launch last month of the at some future time. Other work and a lake. and villages of the county. The ball held by Clonmel Lions Club Bastion Court development in recently carried out, according Monaghan: After ten years stretcher was carried from Boyle were presented to the centre by Connaught Street. Frank Kelly to committee chairman Seamus chasing the title, Christina on a route through Elphin, The Tipperary Association for is behind the development, O’Toole, involved cleaning up McMahon from Carrickmacross Strokestown, Tulsk, Ballina- Special Needs. which will comprise 79 apart- the path from the plough green has become the new Ladies gare, Frenchpark, Ballaghader- Tyrone: Dungannon’s Castle ments with associated crèche, down to St. Mary’s and St. 50kg World Kickboxing Cham- reen, Loughglynn, Castlerea, Hill was the site of an archaeo- medical centre, and retail Michael’s Church. Page 22 November 2007 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com Traveling People Galway Man Said to Have Bought Ashford Castle; Price for Mayo Landmark Put at 70-Million Euro

By Judy Enright rian-style extensions. He Special to the BIR later bequeathed Ashford The rumor has been to his son, Lord Ardilaun, floating around Ireland an avid gardener, who for some time, but it does oversaw the development now appear as though of massive woodlands and the Ashford Castle Hotel rebuilt the entire west in Cong, Co. Mayo, once wing of the castle. Since owned by a group of 45 then, Ashford has been Irish-American investors, owned by numerous fami- has been sold to a Galway lies and was sold in 1939 developer. to Noel Huggard, who The sale price most opened Ashford’s doors as often quoted for the spec- a first-class hotel. tacular 13th-century hotel In 1970, Ashford was is 70-million euro, and bought by John Mul- the reputed purchaser is cahy, who ordered a com- Gerry Barrett, a former plete restoration and schoolteacher and now a expansion, doubling its successful developer who size, building the golf heads up Edward Hold- course and developing the ings. He has a massive grounds and gardens. He property portfolio and has sold the property to the completed many high-end Irish-Americans some 15 projects, including Scotch years later. Hall shopping center in I stayed at Ashford Drogheda, the tony, five- several years ago and, star “g Hotel” in Galway, honestly, it is by far my the four-star “d hotel” favorite castle hotel. It is in Drogheda, and Barna small enough to be per- House luxury apartments sonal and somewhat inti- on Galway Bay, to name mate, the staff is cordial Ashford Castle, which graces the shore of beautiful Lough Corrib, was built in 1228 by the Anglo-Norman just a few. and gracious, the grounds de Burgo family after they defeated the native O’Connors of Connaught. Back in April, Cróna Es- are beyond magnificent, ler, a reporter for Western there are activities galore tion last year but lost out DOOLEY VACATIONS • Sites & Cities Es- to visit Ireland, be sure People newspaper, wrote, from walking and boating to Edinburgh. I was interested to see corted Tour from $399, to stop by your favorite “Speculation has been rife to falconry and golf, and INFLATION that my favorite Irish car that includes, two nights travel agent or the Aer in the South Mayo/North the meals are delicious. It’s good to know that rental company – Dooley in Galway, two nights in Lingus website (aerlin- Galway area for some You don’t feel like just a we aren’t the only country - has launched Dooley Dublin, coach, meals and gus.com) for the latest time that the magnificent number here as you do at that’s struggling with Vacations, a web-based more. For more informa- direct flights and ground 13th-century castle has some castle hotels. Hope- inflation. A recent story company with all packages tion, visit dooleyvacations. deals. Flights and deals been put on the market fully, Mr. Barrett and his in The Irish Times noted available online at dooley- com/vacations/ireland-es- are also offered by US by its Board of Direc- designers will be mindful that a jump in oil and food vacations.com. Travelers corted-sites-cities Airways (usairways.com) tors. However, the hotel’s of the comfortable but prices took September may also book through As I’ve written before, I and several other airlines, General Manager, Niall elegant charm of Ashford euro zone inflation above the call center at 877-331- have rented from many car but often involve layovers Rochford, is adamant and make changes that target for the first time 9301. companies in more than 30 in Chicago, Newark, New that this is not the case. are in keeping with its in a year. “The European Some of the most popu- years of visiting Ireland, York, Philadelphia and Speaking exclusively to rich historic past. Union’s statistics office lar packages include: and I have become a true elsewhere, adding several the Western People, Mr. Ashford is truly a lovely confirmed that consumer • Emerald Package from believer in Dooley Car hours to the trip but also Rochford explained that property and a stay there prices in the 13 countries $359, that includes hotel, Rentals for the quality of reducing the cost. For sea- for a hotel of the caliber – or even just a stop for using the euro rose .4 per- five nights B&B, car rental the vehicles and their out- sonal happenings, check of Ashford Castle, it is no tea -- is highly recom- cent month-on-month for (for more info, visit dooley- standing service. It sounds out Tourism Ireland’s surprise that there is a mended. a 2.1 percent year-on-year vacations.com/vacations/ like their vacations will be website (tourismireland. constant flow of bids from EYRE SQUARE rise, up from 1.7 percent ireland-independent-em- great, too. com) and Failte Ireland’s interested buyers. But, We read in The Irish in August. That was in erald-package); TRAVEL site (failteireland.ie.). the manager was quick to Times last spring that line with market expecta- Whenever you decide note that the Board have Eyre Square in Galway, tions based on Eurostat’s not made a decision to sell which recently underwent earlier estimate.” the lavish hotel and sur- a lengthy and contro- The European Central rounding 360-acre estate.” versial facelift, has been Bank wants to keep an- Six of the 45 investors sit nominated this year’s nual inflation just below Kinsale County Cork on the hotel’s board. Academy of Urbanism 2 percent and did so Rochford told Esler of Great Britain and during the 12 months to 20” x 30” that the Irish-Americans Ireland awards in the cat- August, raising interest 2005 have owned the 83-bed- egory of Great Place. Also rates amid an economic room castle and 360-acre short-listed were Dublin’s upswing to the current grounds since 1985 and, Meeting House Square in 4 percent from 2 percent he said, “to be honest, I Temple Bar, the Quayside in 2005. wouldn’t blame people for in Newcastle and seven Many economists, the wanting to submit an offer other areas in the UK. newspaper said, believe on such a trophy property. The winner will be the bank will not raise There is always specula- announced this month, rates further “because tion about the castle being after an Academy team of the strong euro and for sale and being sold but visits each site. Meet- an expected economic I can categorically deny ing House Square was slowdown, partly due to these reports and state one of four public spaces the global credit crunch, that the hotel is certainly developed for Temple which has already sharply not sold.” Bar and was designed by boosted market lending However, a spokes- Paul Keogh Architects, rates.” man for Tourism Ireland members of the Group ELECTION TIME in New York City said 91 architects. Temple Well, it is election sea- last month, “Ashford is Bar was also short-listed son and I loved this story definitely sold. A local in the category of Great from The Irish Indepen- developer bought it… the Neighborhood and in this dent newspaper last May, same person who owns the category the competition saying John Healy, 69, a g Hotel in Galway.” That includes Soho in London retired Irish farmer, has person is Barrett. and Castlefields in Man- traced his roots from his Ashford, once owned chester among others. home in Moneygall, Co. by members of the Guin- The theme for this year’s Offaly, straight to Barack ness family, graces the awards is Space, Place and Obama, some of whose shore of beautiful Lough Life and the key criteria ancestors emigrated from Corrib and was built in include governance, local Ireland more than 150 1228 by the Anglo-Nor- character, distinctive- years ago. It seems that by Vincent Crotty man de Burgo family after ness, user friendliness, Healy, whose family has they defeated the native functionality, commercial lived in the same house in O’Connors of Connaught. success and viability, and Moneygall since 1750, had The castle remained the environmental and social an ancestor named Sarah, principal stronghold of the sustainability who married Joseph Ke- de Burgos until 1589. The Academy’s contenders arney, a shoemaker, in In 1852, Ashford’s new for the principal award, 1760. Their son, Fulmuth 229 Lincoln Street (Rt. 3A) Hingham, Massachusetts, 02043 owner, Sir Benjamin Lee European City of the Year, Kearney, who is Obama’s 800-752-9389 include Amsterdam, Bar- third great-grandfather, Guinness, extended the Hours: Tues. - Sat. 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m., Sunday noon - 5:00 pm estate to 26,000 acres, celona, Budapest, Berlin, left Moneygall for New built new roads, planted Graz, Helsinki, Istanbul, York in 1850. Great stuff, email: [email protected] thousands of trees, and Lyon, Stockholm and Tu- huh? www.aisling-gallery.com added two large Victo- rin. Dublin was in conten- Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com November 2007 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 23 The Irish Language by Philip Mac AnGhabhann Celtic

I must begin this column with an apology. There Cross was a typographical error in the last column. The word for “wet” is fluich, not “Oluich.” This was my mistake, not the Reporter’s. Words We are studying adjectives and at the end of the last column I put some formulas for you to The Irish remember. If X is Y then there is no recognition of gender in crosswords are the adjective. What this means is that if “X” (“something” or a service of an “some person”) is described as “Y” with some form of the verb tá, the adjective remains the same for Ireland-based both masculine and feminine nouns. For example, the word for “day,” lá, is masculine website which and the word for “night,” oiche is feminine. In a sentence like “The day is beautiful” and “The night provides Irish is beautiful” there is no change in the form of the adjective. Family Coats of Tá an lá álainn. Tá an oiche álainn. Any other combination of feminine noun + ad- Arms by email. jective as in “If X + Y does something to Z” or if “Z does something to X + Y then the adjective must You are invited change by being lenited (“aspirated”). This is along way to say, if the noun + adjective to visit is used as the subject or object of a sentence or if any other verb beside some form of tá is used then www. the feminine noun lenites the adjective. Hence, you better review the forms of tá or bí to bigwood.com/ be sure that you know them. Remember that these, as all Irish verbs, go on the front of the simple sen- heraldry tences. That is why they are capitalized.

Positive Negative Present: Tá Níl ©-bigwood.com Past: Bhí Ní raibh IRELAND IN CROSSWORDS Future: Beidh Ní bheidh ACROSS 2. Open box he smashed led to him hating strangers. 1. Loud reference to English city of ‘dreaming spires’ (9) Question? Neg. Question? in Mayo town known for its woollen industry. (7) 3. Peruse the book we hear, in a rush at the side of Present: An bhfuil? Nach bhfuil? 4. Con rang up the ancient Irish lake island fort. the water. (4) Past: An raibh? Nach raibh? (7) 4. American company is initially the third I article Future: An mbeidh? Nach mbeidh? 8. After tea apparently, that is to say, secure with indefinitely. (1.1.1.) cord. (3) 5. Revolutionary takes a note from 3 down. (3) Raibh is pronounced /roh/, beidh as /bee/, bheidh 9. Nine at odds with natural consequence. (6) 6. Northern Region leaders take in frozen water, that’s as /wee/ or /vee/ and mbeidh as /mee/. 11. Owned that one was a victim of a trick commonly. more agreeable. (5) Here are some new words. The generic word for (3) 7. Tag ran when laundered in Donegal lake with a mod- “meat” or “flesh” is feoil /fyol/ so the meat or flesh 12. Mark took the cars out. (4) ern Celtic Cross where St. Colmcille was born . (6) of a particular animal or fowl will end in -oil; cearc 13. Lied about being unemployed. (4) 8. Thus force tour around Dublin’s centre of justice /kyerk/ “hen,” circeoil /KIRK-yol/ “chicken meat” 15. Quantity of land in Clare acreage. (4) which was shelled during the Civil War. (3,4,6) – both feminine nouns – the adjective friodhta 16. Reverberating mountain nymph heard in Bal- 10. Mine turned over at the extreme end. (3) /FREE-tuh/ means “fried” and arán “bread,” a lymote choral production. (4) 14. Six grin about maiden in a Megastore on the quays masculine noun. 17. No chip cooked for the Polish piano man. (6) in Dublin. (6) Remember also that when you lenite an f, it 19. Get ball Gary, it’s over in the small Kilkenny town 17. All can come over to Kilkenny town where O’Carroll becomes “silent.” where Black Thomas was captured in 1600. (11) and 800 men were slain in 1408 by the English. (6) D’ith Séan an arán friodhta. 22. There’s nothing in the hairdressers’ becoming a 18. Curt rites will suffice as a criticism. (9) /yee SHAWN uh AH-ran FREE-tuh/ bar. (6) 20. Dry liner crumbles in Fermanagh village on the “Sean ate the fried bread.” 23. Ale, we hear, one for the last road? (4) upper Lough Erne near Trasna Island. (8) D’ith Séan an circeoil fhriodhta. 24. High feature in Glencar church. (4) 21. Embargo at this time in Wexford old town, the first /yee SHAWN uh KIRK-oyl REE-tuh/ 27. Put together or back to back to fix firmly in the corporation town built by the Normans. (6) “Sean ate the fried chicken.” ground. (4) 25. With a circular base tapering to a point in Kilcor- The assumption is, of course, that you already 29. “ —— bean rows will I have there, a hive for the mac on ice. (5) know if a noun is masculine or feminine. The honey bee.” Yeats. (4) 26. Irish third level educational institution seen initially assignment of the term “gender” is purely arbitrary. 30. “What charm can soothe her melancholy What included in art colleges. (1.1.1.) It would be better to speak about “classes” of nouns. — can wash her guilt away?” Goldsmith (3) 28. Nordic city referred to in Portnoo slogan. (4) However, since most books and dictionaries continue 32. Sound head needed in West Cork village by the 30. In time past in Buncrana golfing. (3) to use the term “gender,” we will have to continue River Ilen and Roaring Water Bay west of Skibber- 31. “ — towns that we believe and die in; it survives, A with it. Most nouns are masculine. It is easier to een. (6) way of happening, a mouth.” W.H. Auden - In Memory make generalities about the feminine. Here are a 33. Fun commonly describing a substance that is of W.B. Yeats. (3) few clues: neither solid nor liquid. (3) 1. If you use a dictionary, there will be an m. or f. 34. Lamp burner not up much in Leinster county town CROSSWORD SOLUTION ON PAGE 30 after the noun. on slopes of Ballyguile hill where Captain Halpin of 2. If you hear some one speaking and in a com- the ‘Great Eastern’, which layed the transatlantic bination noun + adjective and the adjective is cables, was born. (7) lenited, the noun will often be feminine. 35. Lose way to green in Longford village near Bal- 3. Generally feminine nouns include those … lymahon where Leo Casey, the balladeer lived. (7) Irish Sayings … a. that are obviously feminine - women’s Theres no need to fear the wind if your haystacks are names, words like “hen” or “mare” - DOWN tied down. although cailín “girl” is an exception. 1. Fade hair (anag.) Antrim N.E. extremity of Ire- A trout in the pot is better than a salmon in the sea. It’s masculine! land with view of Scotland, also known as Benmore. It’s better to bend than to break. b. most of the names of nations and languages: (4,4) A ship often sank beside the harbour c. most nouns that end –e or –i and a consonant such as muintir “people,” ADVERTISEMENT bainis “wedding;” d. nouns that end in –oig, –ail, and ach or –acht. Recall that there are always exceptions! A good ex- ample is cailín “girl” which, although it meets two Photography by of the criteria above, clearly referring to a female and also ending in –ín, it is masculine. You just have to learn them. Words that have come into Irish over the many Image Photo Service years of contact with English and/or new words like raidió “radio,” clog “clock” an bricfásta “breakfast” are generally assigned to the masculine category • Weddings • Anniversaries although there are still exceptions - téip “tape” is feminine. • Banquets • Portraits The majority of nouns are masculine so from now on in this course I will mark feminine nouns as f. Nouns not so marked you may take as masculine. • Reunions Let’s see if you can correctly assign gender to these nouns: 1.) Éirinn “Ireland” 2.) balla “wall” • Groups • Families 3.) banalatra “nurse” 4.) bás “death” 5.) geata “gate” 6.) fuinneoig “window” 7.) garda “police- • Special Occasions man” 8.) feoil “meat” 9.) páirc “park” 10.) mna “women” 11.) oíche “night” 12.) roilig “cemetery” 13.) tine “fire” 14.) náisiún “nation” 15.) paidir “prayer” 16.) tarbh “bull” 17.) suipéar “supper” (781) 843-7430 18.) Nollaig “Christmas” Answers: 1.) f 2.) m. 3.)f. 4.) m. 5.) m. 6.) f. 7.) m 8.) f. 9.) f. 10.) f. 11.) f. 12.) f. 13.) f. 14.) m. The official photographers of the Boston Irish Reporter Page 24 November 2007 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com Boston Irish Reporter Book Review The Mysterious Murder Of Major Dennis Mahon spirators then dashed into the documents, Duffy examines Journalist Peter Duffy’s darkness.” not only the truth surrounding From all corners of Mahon’s Mahon’s murder, but also his Gritty and Absorbing Saga estate, a horde of starving personal hand in the dread- Catholics stood as potential ful fates of thousands of his Reveals Much About the suspects. The major had forced tenants. At the same time, some 3,000 of his 12,000 tenants Duffy weaves a gut-wrenching Great Famine Through the from his land, paying the pas- account of the harshness and sage of some aboard leaking, desperation of life for Mahon’s Prism of a Notorious Killing barely seaworthy “coffin ships” tenants. Empty bellies, no roof that were bound for America, above their heads, and fear of of a Reviled Landlord tossing a paltry bit of pocket ever-present death only slightly change to some to leave their less frightening as the prospect By Peter F. Stevens turf of his new book well. The white-walled, thatch-roofed of the coffin ships – all resonate BIR Staff Killing of Major Mahon opens hovels peaceably, and sending in the book’s pages. The oft-used adage is that with a terse and chilling account the local sheriff to forcibly evict In explaining the book’s “truth is stranger than fiction” of the murder, which unfolds as all who bucked the landlord. genesis, Duffy notes that he In the case of The Killing of Ma- the Great Famine is ravaging Mahon’s murder sent shock was drawn by “the secret jor Dennis Mahon, Peter Duffy Ireland and Major Denis Mahon waves though the entire island, knowledge that was carried by proves that, in literary terms, is traveling along his estate: “In terrifying other landlords and my great-great-grandfathers, truth is often more compelling the early evening of November hardening their stances against two of whom fled Ireland as it than fiction. A well-known 2, 1847, an Anglo-Irish landlord recalcitrant tenants. The furor suffered through a multi-year journalist and award-winning and two other men were driving spread internationally, eliciting famine in the middle of the 19th history.” author, Duffy delves deeply into a horse-drawn carriage through responses from Queen Victoria, century. What did they wit- What is also obvious is that one of Ireland’s most fascinat- his property when a single gun- the prime minister, the pope, ness? With this spur, I glanced The Killing of Major Denis Ma- ing murder mysteries, into the shot [a shotgun] was fired from and both the anti-Irish press through a few histories of the hon is a brilliant work of fast- Great Famine’s Strokestown a ditch on the right side of the and the defenders of the island’s Great Irish Famine of 1845- paced, unforgettable history. Massacre, and into the dark road. With lead balls and slugs desperate, starving Catholic 1850 to learn what happened Peter Duffy’s work is must read- backdrop of the Famine itself. piercing his torso, Major Dennis peasants. in Roscommon, the mid-island ing for its insights into the hu- What emerges is a riveting Mahon fell backward, his hat Duffy’s absorbing, skilled county where [Duffy’s ances- man toll of the Famine through historical, emotional, social, tumbling from his head. His narrative the captures the full tors] Michael Duffy and John a turf’s-eye view of perhaps the and human saga. lifeless body came to rest in the impact of the murder – as- Keogh hailed from. Before long most notorious and controversial Peter Duffy is the author of arms of the coachman, Martin sassination, in some quarters I stumbled upon the notorious murder of that tragic era. To- the critically acclaimed World Flanagan, who had yielded his -- and both its literal and sym- story of Major Dennis Mahon, day, Ireland’s National Famine War II history The Bielski place to his employer at the bolic roles in An Gorta Mor, an Anglo-Irish landlord from Museum fittingly rises from a Brothers. He writes for numer- beginning of the trip. … In the the potato blight that killed up Strokestown… corner of Major Mahon’s former ous publications. including The next instant, Dr. Terence Shan- to a million and sent millions “The impulse for writing this Strokestown tract. New York Times, The Village ley [who had grabbed the reins] more to America and other book was to learn more about The Killing of Major De- Voice, and Newsday. noticed a second shooter to the part of the globe. Culling rare the Famine by investigating the nis Mahon, by Peter Duffy, Among Duffy’s ancestors are left of the vehicle. The man primary source material that great, unsatisfactorily solved Harper Collins, hardcover, people who hailed from Co. aimed his gun and pulled the include Major Mahon’s private crime of Irish history….The ISBN 0060840501 and ISBN Roscommon, and he knows the trigger. The weapon misfired. correspondence and reams of conclusion from all this is obvi- 13:9780060840501, 384 pages, The two nearly indistinct con- Co. Roscommon police and court ous: The Famine is not settled $25.95. New U.S. A sampling of new and recently released Book Releases books of interest to Boston Irish Americans

experience as patients. In addition, excerpts from the side of the Burren, in Ireland’s Co. Clare. She’s written Forgotten oral histories of ward matrons, doctors, nurses, and several tales on Irish history for young readers. Ellis Island patients enliven the story of a public institution caught St. Martins Minotaur, hardcover, ISBN 0-312-36836- The Extraordinary in the politics of immigration. Illustrated with many 4, 311 pages, $24.95. never-before-published photographs, Forgotten Ellis Story of America’s Island is a powerful tribute to the best and worst of Fighting Immigrant Hospital America’s immigration history. Lorie Conway is an independent film producer and For Dublin By Lorie Conway writer. Her work has been recognized with the Pea- The British Battle Forgotten Ellis Island: The Extraordinary Story of body, DuPont, and Cable Ace Awards. In 1993-1994, America’s Immigrant Hospital is the first-ever history of she held a Nieman Fellowship. for Dublin, 1919-1921 the Ellis Island hospital, immediately one of the world’s Her work on Forgotten Ellis Island was supported By William Sheehan largest public health hospitals when it opened in 1902. by the National Endowment for the Humanities, and The British Army faced shoot- As increasing waves of new immigrants, beckoned by includes a soon-to-be-released documentary film on outs in cities, ambushes on rural American industry’s need for labor, arrived at Ellis the immigrant hospital at Ellis Island. She lives with roads. It was a typical twentieth- Island in the late 1800s, her family in Boston. century conflict, as shown by the the strain tested the capac- Smithsonian Books, hardcover, ISBN 0061241962, British account of the campaign ity of the facility’s hastily 208 pages, $26.95. in Dublin. constructed wooden dis- To this is added an extract pensary. Immigrants with My Lady Judge from the intelligence history of typhus, cholera, diphtheria, the campaign, brief biographies favus, and other virulent A Novel of key British commanders and diseases were shuttled to officers killed on Bloody Sunday. neighboring hospitals, rais- By Cora Harrison The Irish author Cora Harrison unveils her first Familiar names and events ing the possibility of deadly described include the arrest of epidemics. Federal authori- book in a new mystery series. The novel is a tale of murder and intrigue set in 1509 A.D. In My Lady Kevin Barry, the wounding of ties ultimately decided to Dan Breen, the burning of the build a state-of-the-art Judge, Harrison’s protagonist is Mara, a Brehon or judge appointed by King Turlough Donn O’Brien to keep Custom House and arrests of de hospital complex on Ellis Valera and Erskine Childers. Island that would serve as order in the Burren, a stark, otherworldly landscape of stone Dufour Editions/The Collins Press, paperback, ISBN the nation’s first line of defense against immigrant- 978-1-905172-43-6, 176 pages, $22.95. borne diseases. hills on Ireland’s western coast. The hospital was unquestionably the world’s boldest Canny, charismatic, and fiercely institution of its kind – it stood ready to treat virtually independent, Mara is known for The Last any disease found anywhere on the globe. Forgotten her efficiency in settling legal of the Name Ellis Island, however, is as much about the human cases and overseeing the sen- stories of the immigrant patients as about the immi- tencing of criminals on behalf By Charles McGlinchey grant hospital itself. Conway’s account is laced with of the king and clan chieftains. Charles McGlinchey (1861-1944) lived his entire the personal perspective of immigrants for whom their When her assistant Coleman life on the Irishowen Peninsula in Donegal. Never first encounter with America was the medical screen- disappears, a search turns up his married, he outlived his brothers and sisters, none of ing on Ellis Island. Some of the newcomers were sent body days later, with a dagger whom left an heir. In the 1940s back to their country of origin on grounds they were in his neck. Mara knows that and ‘50s, McGlinchey would visit too sick or weak to become productive citizens. Others, someone, perhaps even a person schoolmaster and friend Patrick mostly of Italian and Jewish descent, were deported close to her, must have seen the Kavanagh to talk about his life because flawed psychiatric testing identified them as crime, but no one’s talking. and times. Kavanagh wrote it “feebleminded.” But a far larger number of those sent As Mara quickly discovers, Coleman had his hands in down. to the Ellis Island hospital were nursed to health by a number of schemes and had been unlawfully enrich- Thirty years later Brian Friel its dedicated medical staff, and allowed entry. ing himself, creating enemies throughout the Burren. edited the material to form a Since 1998, and with the support of three National But as Mara gathers together the strands of the case, book. This is an astonishingly Endowment for the Humanities awards, the author she finds that the crime doesn’t stop with one killing, detailed tapestry of life in the has been researching the archives and oral histories at and that her own life is now in danger. A fascinating northwest of Ireland in a period Ellis Island, the United States Public Health Service, and original historic mystery with a winning heroine now beyond the grasp of living the National Archives, the New York Public Library, and an evocative setting, My Lady Judge takes read- memory. and personal collections of former patients and medi- ers into a society of surprisingly complex social rules Dufour Editions/The Collins cal staff. The book includes interviews with those who and ancient ceremonies, and sets the stage for further Press, paperback, ISBN 978-1- passed through the hospital as children and recall their Burren mysteries. 905172-46-7, 144 pages, $22.95. Cora Harrison is a former teacher who lives just out- Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com November 2007 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 25 Boston Irish Reporter Book Briefs Reviews of books recently published in Ireland, edited by Pauline Ferrie

is tinged with envy, according to Michael O’Leary solid layer of management ready O’Connor, as Hillary has gone and able to take over. Whatever on to aspire to the presidency. - A Life in Full the future for Ryanair, Michael The various scandals which Flight O’Leary, for all his abrasiveness, Tony Blair had to overcome are opportunism, and questionable well-documented, including By Alan Ruddock taste, will be remembered by the death of David Kelly, the Michael O’Leary is seen by many as the man who brought honors-for-cash scandal and many as a successful but brash air travel within the reach of the Cherie’s involvement with Car- man, ruthless in business, scur- ordinary citizen. ole Caplin, but the act that he rilous of tongue and ever on the Penguin Ireland, ISBN 978-1- feels (in common with thousands lookout for publicity, and Alan 844-88055-3, 440 pages. of others) was Blair’s downfall Ruddock’s book confirms this per- was his alignment with George ception. From an early age, hav- W. Bush in the invasion of ing experienced periods of penury Do You Want Iraq. O’Connor’s account of due to his father’s lack of What I Want? Blair’s relationship with Bush success as a serial entrepre- By Denise Deegan is one of the more interesting neur, O’Leary determined to aspects of this book, drawing make money. And making As with Deegan’s previous attention as he does to the two money the conventional way, novel, “Love Came Tumbling”, very different approaches to slowly but surely gaining his qual- there is an unevenness in the positions of power. Far from ifications as an accountant and structure of this story that Blair’s “Call me Tony” ap- rising through the ranks of the gives a rather glib and obvi- Army Corps) during World War The Darlings proach to his subordinates, Bush Dublin firm Stokes Kennedy ous introduction to both the I looks at their activities both of Downing Street insists on protocol and has Crowley, was not the way he main characters and the main on the field of battle where they banned both swearing and premise, but in this instance the By Garry O’Connor intended to go. He left the were o ten fighting alongside alcohol in his presence. The company to open up first one narrative gathers pace towards Irish battalions, and on leave. Garry O’Connor bases his result, which O’Connor and then two more newsagents the conclusion, giving a more For many of the soldiers, Ireland examination of the ten years in has rightly pointed out, is in Dublin and quickly made a satisfactory reading experi- was the preferred place in which which the Blairs occupied 10 that President Bush has modest fortune, while at the ence. The couple at the center to spend their leave, since it was Downing Street on their mutual the respect of his colleagues same time demo strating his of the story, Louise and Rory, the farthest point from the fight- narcissism and on each being while Blair failed to earn undoubted business acumen. typify many of Ireland’s young ing they could reach in the time a mimetic double of the other. the same degree of respect. Deciding to open one of the couples; both have excellent available to them. Of course, This mimesis, he contends, A couple who loved the public- shops on Christmas morning, he jobs, and neither is in a hurry many of the soldiers from began from the moment they ity attendant on their exalted trebled the price of batteries and to make a commitment to either Australia and New Zealand met and continued uninter- position, but a couple who also marked up a number of boxes of marriage or children. A life- had connections with Ire- rupted during the leadership e pressed a wish to keep their chocolates; by the end of the day changing experience for Rory land, some of them being Irish years. The author emphasizes family life private, sent out he had made 14,000 sterling. turns their relationship on its born and others of Irish parent- throughout the book the influ- many mixed signals. Cherie His introduction to the work- head and indirectly leads to a age. Kildea mentions a number ence of Cherie Blair on all the in particular pleaded privacy ing world of Tony Ryan was as series of events which culminate of specific cases of Irishmen decisions taken by her husband. while courting the press on a behind-the-scenes financial in both eventually realizing fighting with the Anzacs who While he may, as he asserts in many occasions, and O’Connor manager, and he would remain their respective aims. Deegan were subsequently awarded the preface, “confess to a certain points out the frequency with in the background for a number has once again focused on the medals for bravery. One of these confusion” as to where his own which she placed her children of years, even when he began to difficulties of family relation- was Martin O’Meara from Coun- political beliefs lie, there is no in the public eye. However in do- work with Ryan’s fledgling air- ty Tipperary, who was awarded doubt that he grew to have ing so he is also guilty of invading line. But it was when he stepped the Victoria Cross for conspicu- little respect for Tony Blair as a the privacy of the four children in to turn the ailing low-fares ous bravery; he had devoted leader, and even less for Cherie. himself, particularly in the case of airline to profit that he began to himself to retrieving wounded He seems to have a particular Kathryn, the only daughter; he come to public notice, and this soldiers from no-man’s-land dislike for the prime minister’s refers to her tendency to put on was also the point at which his despite severe shelling. There wife, constantly referring to weight and also makes much of major battles with Aer Lingus, is, however, something of a episodes in which she belittled her difficulties in fitting in at the government, and the unions shadow cast on the extent of her role. For some reason he school. In writing about the began. Ruddock’s description of his bravery when the author feels it an important point to parents, personal comments the deals O’Leary managed to fi- reveals that O’Meara was con- let us know that Cherie weighed about any of their children could nalize, the confro tations with his fined to a mental institution on thirteen pounds at birth, surely and should have been avoided. opponents, and, in particular, his return to Australia, being an irrelevant detail. He does, What emerges from “The Dar- his ongoing feud with the then described as both homicidal and however, give interesting back- lings of Downing Street” is a por- Minister for Transport Mary suicidal. ground material for both Tony trait of a couple totally involved O’Rourke, add life to a narrative A significant portion of the and Cherie, each of them able and supportive of each other, a that at times becomes bogged book is devoted to the Dar- to count actors among their couple who loved the , down in statistics of profits, danelles engagements, with immediate forbears, and he and who fought to retain the power passenger numbers, and relative Gallipoli the pivotal battle for frequently draws parallels with that kept them in the spot- costs of aircraft. The picture Australians to this day. The their leadership methods and light. It also paints a pic- that emerges is one of a totally author takes pains to include the notion of show business. ture of a couple whose am- focused businessman who has the part played by the Irish In this he draws an interesting bition perhaps outweighed no time for the niceties of life, battalions in this campaign, and comparison with Bill and Hill- their ability to administer whose sole goal is to be the best ships, with even one apparently makes the point that for both ary Clinton, a couple on whom the power accorded to them as oc- at what he does, but who does stable and happy background Ireland and Australia it became he claims the Blairs modeled cupants of 10 Downing Street. appear to have the good of his harboring problems that con- an important reference point in themselves and whom they con- Politico’s, ISBN 978-1-84275- country at heart. tinue into adulthood; through the formation of their respective tinue to admire. Although in the 202-9, 351 pages. Of his private life there is the characters of Rory, Siofra, nations. For the Australians it case of Cherie this admiration little mention, reflecting the and Owen she portrays in an was an affirming moment of na- care O’Leary has taken to keep interesting and convincing man- tionhood, while for many of the his public and private personas ner the way in which the family Irish who had supported the idea entirely separate. We hear of dynamic, once set, tends to contin- of sending soldiers to the conflict, Bestsellers in Ireland his first attempt up the aisle, ue way beyond childhood. Other it was the point at which they and with slightly more detail family situations are explored: began to doubt the rightness Paperback Fiction of his eventual marriage and the one-parent family, the sepa- of their decision. The location 1. The Memory Keeper’s Daughter, Kim Edwards - Penguin the birth of his son, and this rated couple, and the place of of the narrative passes briefly 2. In My Sister’s Shoes, Sinead Moriarty - Penguin Ireland secrecy is in strong contrast to a foster-child in the extended through London and comes to 3. Whitethorn Woods, Maeve Binchy - Orion the extrovert who has variously family. But the dominant theme rest in Ireland, where some 4. Faith, Lesley Pearse - Michael Joseph dressed up as a highwayman is the desire, or otherwise, to Anzac soldiers on leave found 5. Somewhere in Between, Ruth Gilligan - Hodder Headline and as Santa Claus to put his have a child of one’s own and, themselves, often reluctantly, Ireland message across to the media. If as is often the case, the one who being pressed into service ever a company became concen- wants no further family becomes against the rebellious Irish Paperback Non-fiction trated in the personality of one pregnant while the person with during the Easter Rising. 1. Michael O’Leary, Alan Ruddock - Penguin Ireland man it is Ryanair, but Michael an overwhelming desire for a However, many of them also 2. Marley and Me, John Grogan - Hodder & Stoughton O’Leary insists that he is not child seems unable to fulfill the enjoyed being tourists in the 3. Ross O’Carroll-Kelly’s Guide to South Dublin, Ross O’Carroll- indispensable and that there is a dream. Throw in abortion and country, and traveled to spots Kelly - Penguin Ireland pregnancy by means of sperm which are still on today’s tourist 4. Overheard in Dublin, Sinead Kelly and Gerard Kelly - Gill & donation and the emphasis on map - Killarney, Blarney Castle, Macmillan the out-of-synch ticking of bio- and the Giant’s Causeway are 5. The God Delusion, Richard Dawkins - Black Swan logical clocks is complete. among the places visited by the Narrating the novel entirely soldiers who had both the time Hardback Fiction through the present tense is and the money. For some, 1. In My Sister’s Shoes, Sinead Moriarty - Penguin Ireland not totally successful, but where however, Ireland became a last 2. Somewhere in Between, Ruth Gilligan - Hodder Headline it does succeed is in the account of resting place; Private John 3. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, JK Rowling - Blooms- the birth of Grace; extremely pre- Joseph Cahill died in Eng- bury mature and leaving her mother land after being wounded in 4. Creatures of the Earth, John McGahern - Faber & Faber fighting for her life, the tiny France and after his death his 5. On Chesil Beach, Ian McEwan - Jonathan Cape newborn somehow validates uncle brought his body home to and gives dignity to all that has be interred in the churchyard Hardback Non-fiction gone before. in Mitchelstown, Co. Cork. Ap- 1.The Secret, Rhonda Byrne - Simon & Schuster Penguin Ireland, ISBN 978-1- pendices detailing the names 2. Irish History Minipedia, Seamus Mac Annaidh - Parragon 844-88095-9, 358 pages. of Australian soldiers on Irish 3.Ireland, David Lyons - Grange war memorials, and First 4. Rachel’s Favourite Food at Home, Rachel Allen - Collins Anzacs and Ireland World War graves of Australian 5. Rick Stein’s Mediterranean Escapes, Rick Stein - BBC By Jeff Kildea soldiers in Ireland, together Books Kildea’s account of the Anzacs (Australia and New Zealand (Continued on next page) Page 26 November 2007 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com Boston Irish Reporter Book Briefs Reviews of books recently published in Ireland, edited by Pauline Ferrie

(Continued from page 29) I Never Fancied befall people, the fabu- by the late Cardinal O Fia- with notes on each chap- lously wealthy Charlene ich as “the Patriot Priest ter and a number of apt Him Anyway who seems to have much of Partry.” illustrations, give an un- By Claudia Carroll in common with the Nonesuch Publishing, usual slant on Ireland’s A total suspension of character of Rachel from ISBN 978-1-84588-581-6, part as provider of both disbelief is necessary for “Friends,” and the eco- 142 pages. fighting men and a place the reading of this novel logically-aware Jo, who Selling Your of refuge during the First unless, that is, you are provides the grounding for World War. a firm believer in psy- her two friends. Added to Home C o r k U n i v e r s i t y chics. For that is the gift the trio is Marc with a C, By Con Nagle Press, ISBN 978-1- the gay man who acts as bestowed on Cassandra, Con Nagle is himself 85918-422-6, 295 pages. mediator when the friends who has been having what an estate agent but, to fall out. And they do, of give him his due, he does course, over men, and it devote some of this book to is the relationships begun AUTO BODY REPAIRS (617) 825-1760 the subject of the private and ended, predicted and (617) 825-2594 sale of a house. However nurtured, that form the FAX (617) 825-7937 most of it stresses the role basis for Claudia Carroll’s of the estate agent and the she calls “flashes” since novel. It provides no great sions Society. Their importance of selecting she was a small child and insights, the characters practice of ensuring that the right agent for the job. who has embarked on both are a little too stereotyped the children of their ten- From this point he takes a journalistic and a televi- to be totally believable, ants attended their Prot- the vendor step by step Free Pick-Up & Delivery Service sion career as the novel but the author maintains estant schools, on pain of through the process, in- opens. Having overcome a lightness of tone that eviction, was vigorously cluding marketing the that hurdle, however, makes for a satisfying opposed by both Lavelle property (and the im- the reader will be enter- read. 150 Centre Street and Archbishop McHale portance of the For Sale tained by the three main, Bantam Press, ISBN of Tuam. The need for sign), and how to prepare Dorchester, MA 02124 and totally different, 978-0-593-05556-4. characters. There is control, particularly dur- it for viewing. Presuming Cassandra herself, of- The Mayo ing a time of perceived that the marketing is be- ten receiving unwe come Evictions lawlessness in the area, ing carried out by the ven- knowledge of what will led to Bishop Plunket dor, the author gives lists of 1860 evicting a number of his of phrases commonly used By Gerard Moran tenants for what could be by estate agents to de- seen as spurious and per- Gerard Moran of the scribe properties both sonal reasons, which in- Department of History in inside and out. The legal vited condemnation from NUI, Galway, has written steps that need to be Britain and the United an account of events in taken, the actual process States as well as within Partry, Co. Mayo in the of either a private sale or Ireland. mid-nineteenth century an auction, and the prob- The author’s account that transformed Father lems that may arise are of the attempts of the Patrick Lavelle from a also covered, and a list of evangelists to encourage “rather wayward parish the terms involved in the “jumpers,” a phase and a administrator into one sales process is a par- phrase with which many of the most militant and ticularly useful addi- are familiar to describe radical members of the tion. From his own years those who turned from Ca- Roman Catholic Church.” as an estate agent Con tholicism to embrace the What emerged in the years Nagle also shares some Church of Ireland, intro- after the Famine was a of his own experiences, duces the less well-known struggle for the control which help to lighten “Serving Greater Boston since 1971” soubriquet, the Second of the people between the what might otherwise Reformation. But the two main churches, with have been a rather dry 1060 N. MaiN St., RaNdolph, Ma 02368 main thrust of this short a prominent part being narrative. history is the character of phone: 781-961-1692 played by the evangeli- O’Brien Press, ISBN Patrick Lavelle, described cal Irish Church Mis- 978-1-84717-037-8, 207 fax: 781-986-8004 pages. www.miltonmonument.com email: [email protected] Enright captures Man Booker Prize PUZZLE SOLUTION FROM PAGE 26 for ‘The Gathering’ DUBLIN -- Anne Enright has been named the winner of this year’s Man Booker Prize for her F O X F O R D C R A N N O C novel “The Gathering.” The Dublin-born author A E E T I I I A had been considered an outsider for the 50,000 sterling award since the shortlist was announced I N N A T E H A D S C A R but the judges found her description of a somewhat dysfunctional grieving Irish family to be “a very R O D L E E T I powerful, uncomfortable and even at times an- H P P F Y A R E A gry book.” The author herself described the book as “the intellectual equivalent of a Hollywood I N E C H O C HPO N South Shore Plaza Nashua Mall weepie.” A O A U R S 250 Granite Street 4 Belliveau Road In offering her congratulations, President Mary McAleese said, “This is a most deserved affirma- D B A L L Y R A G G E T D Braintree, MA Nashua, NH tion of the talents of Anne Enright, an imagina- E L C I R E 781-848-8609 603-598-5240 tive and insightful writer who continues the long tradition of literary richness which flows from Ire- B S A L O O N B I E R land.” A R C H N U R C R 1898 Centre Street The Marketplace N O R O O T T Y W. Roxbury, MA 80 Mall Road 617-323-4644 Burlington, MA N I N E A R T S C H U L L 781-272-1044 O I G A S L R I W I C K L O W G O R T E E N Office: 508-432-8600, x30 Fax: 508-432-8336 Direct: 508-776-7416 SAVE $$$ ON YOUR HOMEOWNERS INSURANCE! Email: [email protected] JACK CONWAY Toll Free: 888-432-8607 Realtor Website: jtConway.com YOU MAY QUALIFY FOR UP TO A 33% DISCOUNT SALES RENTALS APPRAISALS • 468 Main Street, Harwich Port, MA 02646 JUDITH M. FLYNN Insurance Agency, Inc. Call me for a quote today! Judie Flynn • 617-296-0350 1152 Washington Street, Dorchester Lower Mills Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com November 2007 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 27 Carty on Sports Staunton No Longer the Man

directly distribute the FAI Set to Ax grants, as proposed by Bertie Ahern‘s govern- ment. He does, however, Dundalk Native reiterate that the GAA is supportive of players be- ing given grants directly After Short Term by the Irish government, By Ken Carty which Ireland has posted which instead wants to pay the money to the GAA Special to the BIR a mark of 4-4-3 with The executioner has one game to go (Nov. 17 as part additional infra- been waiting in Dublin at ), the FAI de- structural funding with for the past two months cided enough is enough. the GAA re-distributing and the Football Asso- The hard part is now be- the money to the players. ciation of Ireland (FAI), ginning for Delaney & Co. “We’ve negotiated, we’ve it appears, is ready to Given the fixture conges- discussed, we’ve bent over mercifully end the Steve tion that exists in Europe backwards. We’ve been Staunton experiment. today, players regularly amenable, we’ve acqui- The quiet Dundalk man, pass up the opportunity to esced, we’ve gone around who played with such represent their countries. the houses on this particu- passion and conviction What Ireland needs now is lar issue and yet nothing for his country, has been a strong-willed character, has been implemented,” unable to get the most someone out of the Jack said GPA chief executive first round, but the Pole The Notebook: At the and Liverpool appear to out of his current caste of Charlton or Roy Keane Dessie Farrell. “The play- survived the onslaught. quarter-pole mark in be getting their respec- wannabes, having gone mold, to coax and cajole a ers have just said ‘enough Golota switched to south- Scotland, Celtic and their tive acts together. ManU 6-5-6 since his appoint- disaffected cast of players is enough.’ In all likeli- paw in the sixth, and left Glasgow archrivals Rang- thumped Aston Villa 4-1 ment in January 2006. - not to mention the Irish hood we will be conducting McBride (34-6-1) in all ers are tied for first place on October 20, to move into The Green’s recent 1-1 sporting public - into be- a ballot and recommend- sorts of trouble before in the Scottish Premier second place in the English draw with 68th-ranked lieving in the cause. Easier ing, based on the feedback the fight was stopped League with identical Premier League with a Cyprus in late October be- said than done. from players, that strike two minutes and 42 sec- 7-2-1 records. The Bhoys mark of 7-2-1. Right behind fore a disinterested crowd GAA trying to avoid action is taken. We hope onds into the final round. recorded a historic 2-1 the Red Devils sit Liver- at Croke Park appears players strike -- The FAI it won’t come to that but McBride, a former Irish Champions League win pool with seven wins and to have been the final isn’t the only organization in the event that everyone Olympian, had been hop- over defending champions four draws in 11 games. straw for FAI President dealing with personnel is- remains in an entrenched ing to fend off the chal- AC Milan at Celtic Park In preparation for their John Delaney and rest sues. Top officials from the position, the players feel lenge of Golota to claim back on October 3 but the USA Rugby Super League of the association’s board Gaelic Athletic Associa- that they’re left with the IBF North American game ended on a sour note play in the spring, the of directors, who are now tion (GAA) and members no other alternative.” heavyweight title and po- when Milan keeper Dida Boston Irish Wolfhounds looking at forking over of the Gaelic Players As- Good news, bad news for sition himself for an even- was set upon by an idiotic Rugby Club competed in some $2 million to buy sociation (GPA) have been Irish boxers -- There was tual shot at a world title. Celtic fan who invaded the Stewart Shield com- out the final two years meeting to try to avert a plus and minus news to The up: Derryman John the pitch and proceeded petition this fall, where of Staunton’s contract. players’ strike in 2008. report for Irish boxers last Duddy (22-0-0) continued to tap the Brazilian on they registered a 4-0 mark Staunton, who, when Following various country month. his march toward a world the shoulder before run- with wins over the New prompted, said he would meetings, it now looks First the down: Heavy- title fight with holder ning back into the stands. York Athletic Club, Phil- not walk away from his certain that the executive weight Kevin McBride Kelly Pavlik following Following the confron- adelphia-Whitemarsh, post, is understood to committee of the players’ suffered a setback in his a second-round rout of tation, Dida comically Potomac, and Old Blue- feel let down by Delaney, association will propose bid for the world heavy- overmatched Prince Ar- slumped to the ground New York City. … In claiming the FAI supreme strike action in the New weight title when he was ron in Dublin on October and needed to be removed the Massachusetts State promised him upon his ap- Year unless the two sides stopped in the sixth round 21. Duddy is scheduled on a stretcher. UEFA, Soccer League’s Second pointment that he would can come to an agreement by Polish veteran Andrew to fight again in Belfast however, showed little Division-South, Brighton- stand by him even if the on how to spend $10 mil- Golota at Madison Square on December 8, inching mercy to the play-acting based Kinvara is making European Championship lion in government grants. Garden in New York on him closer to a meeting and suspended the AC a run for first place with campaign had ended dis- GAA president Nick Bren- October 6. Monaghan early next year with Milan keeper two games a 10-5-1 record with a few appointingly. However, nan has remained stead- native McBride, 34, who the highly rated Ameri- for unsportsmanship. For games remaining. Visit following a disjointed fast over the association’s defeated Mike Tyson over can, who was recently their part, Celtic were mssleague.net for more qualifying campaign, in stance that it cannot two years ago, rocked crowned WBC and WBO fined $50,000. … Down information. 39-year-old Golota in the middleweight champion. south, Manchester United Review: Ánuna at Berklee Center (Continued from page 16) featured finely tuned close intervals that sometimes clashed intentionally, creating an ethereal sound that transformed the Performance Center into a living, breathing cave hidden 100 feet beneath the Burren. Another piece that is as gorgeous live as on the recording is Miriam Blennerhassett’s rich and mature contralto solo on “I Dreamt I Dwelt in Marble Halls.” Her singing was the highlight of the entire evening. The concert ended with clusters of the audience on its feet in a standing ovation, and the group finished up with two pieces—the well-known Irish chanted song “Fionnghuala,” followed by John Denver’s “Annie’s Song.” The latter was a bit baffling—not because of its inclusion, for as they said in the DVD, the song is an American anthem—but because it did not showcase the group’s vocal power. If arranged with the careful harmonies that first put Anúna on the map with River- dance, it could be simply showstopping. Instead, it was a comparatively uncomplex arrangement, with twins Michael and John and singing duet (Michael warned the audience that he was suffering with a chest infec- tion that hampered his voice)—backed by the “oohs” and “aahs” of the full chorus. In comparison to the live performance, the record- ing and DVD have far more polish, more reverb, more carefully edited banter. Live in performance, Anúna was an a cappella show except for interludes and ac- The Massachusetts Office of International Trade & Investment (MOITI) joined with Enterprise Ireland, companiment from concert harpist Chilali Hugo and Invest Northern Ireland and the Consulate General of Ireland to host a reception October 18 at the violinist and Pam Anderson-lookalike Linda (Lampe- UMass Club in Boston. Pictured are (l-r): Patrick J Bench, Comm. of Mass.; Gary Hanley, Invest North- nius) Brava. ern Ireland; Consul Generaal of Ireland David Barry; Congressman Richard Neal; Consul General of Overall, the elements that didn’t seem to hang England Dr. Phil Budden; Jon Mahoney, Director of Life Sciences, Comm., of Mass; and Sean McEllin, together well live were a non-issue with the record- Enterprise Ireland (Harry Brett photo.) ing, which felt complete and cohesive. The recording is backed with a larger complement of instruments that give it a full and enjoyable sound. While the flow from song to song in the live show felt just a little Ireland Called ‘Friendliest’ Country stumbling at times, no one could fault the perform- According to the new best in travel for the com- of humor” and “welcoming the United States, then ers or the performances; Anúna’s singers singers are edition of Lonely Planet ing year. attitude toward strang- Malawi, with Scotland excellent and maintain an easy, likeable manner that Bluelist 2008, Ireland is Among the reasons ers.” There is also praise making it onto the list at warms the venue instantly. But, overall the live show the world’s “friendliest” given for placing Ireland for “that famous ability of No. 9. might do better to entertain its intended audience if country, the annual title at the top of the list of the Irish to find craic in more stage effects were employed to visually excite in which the publishers Friendliest Countries is boom or bust times.” the presentation. attempt to capture the its “deliciously dark sense Ireland is followed by Page 28 November 2007 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com

Your family’s future is our legacy $300,000 COVERAGE

One hundred years ago, local attorney and future Supreme Court Justice Louis Brandeis 20-Year Level Term Policy, Preferred Plus Rates* Guaranteed level monthly premiums, fixed at age of issue founded SBLI as a way to offer families high-quality life insurance at a low cost. As generations of families can attest, SBLI’s mission remains the same today. Age 35† Age 40† Age 45† Age 50† $14.88 $20.10 $34.71 $52.20 Give your family peace of mind for tomorrow * Based on current estimates, approximately 30% of applicants are likely to qualify for at a cost that you can afford today. Preferred Plus non-nicotine rates. † Age nearest birthday Monthly premiums available by EFTS only. Some conditions may apply. Policy Forms B-36, B-46 series. For a free no-obligation quote call

1-888-GET-SBLI Ext. 5804 SBLI and The No Nonsense Life Insurance Company are registered trademarks of The Savings Bank Life Insurance Company of Massachusetts, www.sbli.com Woburn, MA. © 2007. All rights reserved. Worldwide at www.bostonirish.com November 2007 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 29

“Mrs. O’Brien”

by Vincent Crotty

229 Lincoln Street (Rt. 3A) Hingham, Massachusetts, 02043 800-752-9389 Hours: Tues. - Sat. 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m., Sunday noon - 5:00 pm email: [email protected] www.aisling-gallery.com