September 2018 Boston’s hometown VOL. 29 # 9 journal of Irish culture. $2.00 Worldwide at All contents copyright © 2018 bostonirish.com Boston Neighborhood News, Inc.

All-Ireland hurling heroes Limerick to play at Fenway in fall Super 11s— are an adaptation of the native Irish took the trophy home in what was dubbed the Hurling will return to Fenway Park this fall sport, played on a smaller pitch with slightly dif- “clash of the champions.” and the triumphant Limerick team— fresh off ferent rules. Still, the Boston Irish community Limerick’s historic underdog victory last its All-Ireland senior championship in August has embraced the concept — a fact underlined month over a powerhouse Galway side has sent — will lead the pack. by the huge crowds that flocked to Fenway since the county into a celebratory spasm unseen in The Limerick Leader reported on Aug. 23 that the inaugural event in 2015, which featured the land of Dolores O’Riordan since their last the third Fenway Hurling Classic in four years Galway besting their Dublin rivals in front of national title in 1973. will be played on Nov. 18. Four counties will an estimated 27,000 fans. A formal announcement about the events and be represented in the double-header match-up: In 2017, the Galway and Dublin lads returned ticket availability is expected in mid-September. Limerick, Clare, Wexford, and Cork, according for a re-match, but the real drama featured Clare, Watch bostonirish.com for details as they come in. to the newspaper and subsequent reports. the ’16 league champions, facing off against Tip- – BILL FORRY The Fenway exhibition games— known as perary, the reigning All-Ireland hurlers. Clare A ‘shocked’ Francis laments Catholic Ireland’s ‘open wound’ Protesters march against clerical abuse Associated Press marking the Vatican’s been “robbed of their inno- KNOCK, Ireland – In a Catholic Family initiative, cence and taken from their two-day weekend visit to Pope Francis denounced mothers’’ by Catholic-run the island late last month how Irish children had institutions that put them up for adoption to erase the shame of having been born to unwed mothers. The pontiff spoke out about the country’s haunt- ed history of forced adop- tions during a prayer service in Knock on Sun., Aug. 26, at the country’s main shrine dedicated to Pope Francis arrives to celebrate Mass at the Phoenix Park in Dublin on Sun., Christ’s mother, Mary. Aug. 26. AP Photos His comments, on the sec- be moved by the stories memories,’’ he said. “This who were wrenched away ond day of his visit, came of young people who suf- open wound challenges us at birth from their un- after an emotional meet- fered abuse, were robbed to be firm and decisive in wed mothers, who had ing with abuse victims on of their innocence or the pursuit of truth and been forced to go live People read aloud names of children as they gath- Saturday, including some taken away from their justice.’’ and work in laundries ered to protest at the site of the former Tuam home forced adoptees. mothers, abandoned and Ireland has thousands and other workhouses for unmarried mothers in Galway on Aug. 26. “None of us can fail to left scarred by painful of now-adult adoptees (Continued on page 14) 34-Month 46-Month 58-Month

% % % 1.50APY* 1.85APY* 2.20APY* If our rates go up, your’s can too! * Rates expressed as Annual Percentage Yields (APYs), are accurate as of 1/1/18, and are subject to change without notice. The bump-up option can only be exercised once during the term of the certificate. The certificate term is not extended by the bump-up/APY increase. To initiate the one-time bump-up contact a Member Service Representative at any branch office. City of Boston Credit Union will use its best efforts to comply with all APY increase requests by the close of business on the next business day. APY increases are not retroactive, and will apply to the remainder of the certificate term. APY increases can be initiated on the 34-month certificate if the then current APY for City of Boston Credit Union’s 34-month certificate or 36-month certificate is above 1.50%, or on the 46-month certificate if the then current APY for City of Boston Credit Union’s 46-month certificate or 48-month certificate is above 1.85% APY or on the 58-month certificate if the then current APY for City of Boston Credit Union’s 58-month certificate or 60-month certificate is above 2.20%. In no event can the bump-up rate exceed the then current rate for the certificate. Dividends will be credited to your account and compounded every month. Upon maturity, 34-, 46- and 58-month Bump-Up Certificates will automatically rollover into the member’s City of Boston Credit Union share account. All other certificate terms and conditions will apply. Minimum deposit of $500. 617-635-4545 Deposits can not be made during the term of the account. Rates may change after account is opened. Fees could reduce earnings. Subject to penalty for early withdrawal. Not available for IRA Certificates. Must be a member of City of Boston Credit Union to open Cityofbostoncu.com certificate account. Offer may be withdrawn at any time. Federally Insured by NCUA. Excess share insurance by MSIC. Page 2 September 2018 BOSTON IRISH Reporter bostonirish.com

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“With Good Will Doing Service” The Charitable Irish Society The President and the Board of Directors of The Charitable Irish Society cordially invite you to attend the 20th Silver Key Awards Reception October 4, 2018, 6:00 p.m. The Fairmont Copley Plaza 138 St. James Street, Boston Honoring Paul Doyle and Linda Dorcena Forry in recognition of their work helping immigrants to adjust and assimilate into their new country. This is consistent with the work of the Charitable Irish Society since its beginnings in 1737 and continuing to the present.

Individual – $125.00 ADVANCE RESERVATIONS REQUIRED Gold Supporter – $2,500.00 Includes 10 reservations Contact Sandra Moody Silver Supporter – $2,000.00 Includes 8 reservations Keeper of the Silver Key Benefactor – $1,500.00 Includes 6 reservations 56 Thomas Park, #3 Patron – $1,000.00 South Boston, MA 02127 Includes 4 reservations Sponsor – $500.00 Includes 2 reservations or online at www.charitableirishsociety.org. bostonirish.com September 2018 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 3 Four will receive Boston Irish Honors at October luncheon By Bill Forry hood. They are the heart and soul of the city, Conway “walks the walk.” He chapters and edited 3 textbooks in Pe- Reporter Editor the Boys and Girls Clubs of Dorchester, is regularly called upon by law enforce- diatric Otolaryngology. A couple who have spent decades help- where they serve as president and vice- ment to help connect with neighbors in The 35-member luncheon committee ing Boston kids stay safe and achieve president, respectively. While raising a his community, where he is a known and is led by US Sen. Edward Markey and their dreams; a Catholic priest who beautiful family of their own, the Scan- trusted confidante and spiritual advisor. Boston Mayor Marty Walsh. The pro- ministers to the city’s most vulnerable; nells have essentially become surrogate Trevor McGill, MD, is a remarkable gram moderator will be Boston Red Sox and a pioneering physician with roots parents to thousands of kids and teens immigrant success story, a living con- “poet laureate” Dick Flavin. in Dublin will be the honorees at next in the city. Together, they have created nection to our collective legacy as people “This inspiring luncheon allows us to month’s Boston Irish Honors luncheon, a safe haven for city kids to learn, play, with roots in Ireland who are now firmly recognize and celebrate exemplary Irish the season’s premier celebration of stay healthy, and prepare for higher planted in Boston. individuals and their families who share Irish-American achievement in Mas- education and careers— all while hav- Dr. McGill is a world-renowned pe- our heritage in Boston and Ireland,” sachusetts. ing the time of their lives. The Scannells diatrician at Boston Children’s Hospital explained Ed Forry, the founder and The ninth annual luncheon, which exemplify the best qualities of our Irish- with a specialty in Otolaryngology. For publisher of the Boston Irish Reporter, serves as an anniversary celebration for American ideals: selflessness, humility, four decades, he has treated young pa- a family-owned and-operated media the Boston Irish Reporter, will be held at and a resolve to stay the course through tients with head and neck tumors, throat enterprise. “In keeping with our own the Seaport Boston Hotel on Thurs, Oct. adversity. disorders, and vascular anomalies. He heritage,” Forry added, “the newspaper 18. Some 400 top Boston business, civic, Rev. Richard ‘Doc’ Conway will be also teaches at Harvard Medical School tells the stories of Boston-Irish individu- and political leaders will be on hand for honored for his remarkable ministry in and is widely recognized to have “altered als and families of special achievements the event, which begins at 11:30 a.m. Boston’s neighborhoods, including his clinical care regionally, nationally and in public service and business who share Bob Scannell and Mary (Kinsella) ongoing efforts in Dorchester’s St. Peter internationally.” our common roots in Boston and Ireland.” Scannell have spent their entire adult parish. An indefatigable advocate for He is a sought-after lecturer in For tickets, call 617-436-1222 or send lives in service to the families and immigrants, the poor and marginalized universities across the globe and has an email to bostonirishhonors@bos- children of Boston’s largest neighbor- youths in high-risk neighborhoods of co-authored 130 peer reviewed papers, tonirish.com. Eire Society taps Finnegan for president At its recent annual meeting, the 81-year-old Éire research scholar of the Society of Boston, one of the city’s most venerable Irish American Conference of cultural organizations, elected Richard B. Finnegan as Irish Studies. its president for the 2018-2019 term. Highly credentialed, A Boston native and professor emeritus of political Professor Finnegan holds science and international studies at Stonehill College, degrees from Stonehill Dr. Finnegan directed the college’s well-respected Irish College, Boston College, Studies Program, and annually led students to Ireland, Harvard University, and North and South, for academic and political inquiry Florida State University, and cultural immersion. where he earned his PhD. Motivated by his deep interest in almost all matters The Society looks for- Irish, Professor Finnegan has served as president of ward to his leadership the New England Conference for Irish Studies, and as he directs the Society’s as board member of the Irish Cultural Centre of New mission of advancing the Inaugural MR8K will England, the Charitable Irish Society of Boston, and ideals and values of Irish most recently, the Éire Society of Boston. culture, and promoting aid first responders who A prolific author, he has published numerous ar- an awareness of the ticles and five books on twentieth century Ireland. In significant contributions Richard B. Finnegan need help themselves pursuit of those efforts, Professor Finnegan has spent that the Irish have made Professor emeritus at sabbatical leaves in Dublin and Galway, as designated to our civilization. Stonehill College By Bill Forry adversity with kindness

Editor and selflessness— that’s The inaugural MR8K— what we espouse through a five-mile run and walk our foundation and our own through Boston’s down- personal lives.” A G overnment o f I reland measu re b rought to y ou b y the D epartment o f J ustice and E quality town and Back Bay on The LEADER program Labor Day is novel in many at McLean is open to all ways. It’s the first MR8- first responders— police, Magdalen R estorative J ustice branded running event fire, EMTs, corrections officers, etc.— who need Ex-­‐Gratia S cheme by Dorchester’s own Mar- tin Richard Foundation, help, with no questions named for our eight-year- asked. LEADER is an ac- Expression o f In terest old neighbor Martin Rich- ronym that stands for Law ard who was killed in the Enforcement, Active Duty, In 2013 the G overnment established an e x-­‐gratia r edress scheme f or the ben efit o f w omen who w ere admitted to and 2013 Marathon bombing Emergency Responder. worked in one o f 12 ‘ Magdalen’ institutions. T he G overnment has n ow decided to apply the scheme to w omen who w orked attack on the marathon. Richard said he hopes in the laundries in those 12 institutions but who w ere r esident in one o f 14 adjoining institutions. that the five mile run and It’s the first run/walk of its The table bel ow sh ows the 12 institutions c overed b y the 2013 scheme and the 14 r elevant adjoining institutions c overed kind that will end at the walk will not only help by the r ecent G overnment decision. Boston Bruins center ice, raise funds to help the inside the TD Garden. And program grow, but will ‘Magdalen’ Institutions in Institutions adjoining the the proceeds from the race raise awareness about its 2013 Scheme ‘Magdalen’ I nstitutions (registration is $45) will go availability to men and Good S hepherd S isters women in crisis. to support a McLean Hos- M agdalen I nstitution N ew R oss S t. Aida n’s I ndustrial S chool pital program that treats “We want people to hear first responders who are in about these programs be- M agdalen I nstitution W aterford S t. D ominick’s I ndustrial S chool need of help for depression, fore they go too far down Gr acepark T raining C entre suicidal thoughts, sobriety the road of no return,” M ayfield T raining C entre S t. Finbarr ’s I ndustrial S chool and PTSD. said Richard, who invites M agdalen Institution Cork Bill Richard, the co- people of all ages to par- M arymount T raining C entre ticipate in the day’s events. founder of the foundation S t. G eorge’s I ndustrial S chool There is a kids race (ages that bears his son’s name, M agdalen I nstitution Limerick S t. J oseph’s R eformatory S chool says that the mission of 4-10) inside the TD Garden concourse at 10 a.m. The R osemount T raining C entre supporting first responders in need is perfectly aligned larger, 8k race— which will Sisters o f O ur Lady o f Charity with the Richard Founda- be certified— begins at 9 An G rianán T raining C entre tion’s spirit. a.m. outside the stadium S t. M ary’s R efuge, H igh P ark, D ublin 9 S t. J oseph’s I ndustrial S chool “It’s our way of saying on Legends Way. The TD M artanna H ouse H ostel thank you for what they did Garden building opening at 7 a.m. for pre-race activi- M onastery o f O ur Lady o f Charity S t. Ann e’s H ostel for us and what they con- S ean M cDermott S treet, D ublin 1 tinue to do every day,” Bill ties and registration. Sisters o f M ercy Richard told the Reporter. “I’d like everyone to come “The idea of having our own out and enjoy the day and H ouse o f M ercy D omestic T raining S chool, S t. M ichael’s I ndustrial S chool, race was appealing to us- to remember why we’re S ummerhill, W exford S ummerhill but when we thought about running and who we’re M agdalen A sylum, F orster S treet, G alway N o r elevant adjoining institution it we continue to see indi- running for,” he said. S t. P atrick’s R efuge, C rofton R oad, N o r elevant adjoining institution viduals across Boston and Full details on the MR8K Dun Laoghai re, C o. D ublin our community respond to can be found online at Sisters o f Charity teammr8.org. S t. M ary’s M agdalen, D onnybrook, Dublin 4 N o r elevant adjoining institution S t. Vin cent’s, S t. M ary’s R oad, C ork N o r elevant adjoining institution D omestic T raining S chool, S tanhope S treet, N o r elevant adjoining institution D ublin 7

If y ou w orked in the laundry o f a ‘ Magdalen’ institution while a r esident in one o f the adjoining institutions and would li ke t o kn ow if y ou mig ht be e ntitled t o ben efits under the scheme, y ou should apply f or and c omplete an “Exp ression o f In terest” f orm. T his f orm is a vailable on the D epartment’s w ebsite www.justice.ie/en/JELR/Pages/MagdalenScheme

You m ay also email RJScheme@justi ce.ie or phone +353 1 4768660 and r equest a f orm.

The M agdalen R estorative J ustice e x-­‐gratia scheme established in 2013 r emains open.

Martin Richard, the spirit behind the run.

Page 4 September 2018 BOSTON IRISH Reporter bostonirish.com Editor’s Notebook Delahunt offers a DA’s advice to church leaders Bill Delahunt’s career in public office spanned four decades, from a term representing his hometown Quincy as a state representative and 14 years as a member of Congress. The largest part of his public service career were the 22 years he spent as district attorney in Nor- folk County. Early in his years as a prosecutor, Delahunt estab- lished the country’s very first unit on domestic violence Stormont, Co. Down: Where nothing is happening. and sexual assault cases, and his young assistant DA’s rolled up their sleeves and uncovered historic numbers of rape and sexual assault cases. That experience gave Northern Ireland appears ungovernable Delahunt a certain level of expertise in such crimes, and By Joe Leary The DUP says absolutely no while Sinn Fein points he says now that he intends to reach out to the leaders to 45 percent or more of the North’s population as of Boston’s Catholic community and offer advice on Special to the BIR The intransigence, bullheadedness, and pigheaded- nationalists who theoretically desire a United Ireland. dealing with the current crisis. But there are many other reasons for the divisive- “I think we heard from Sean O’Malley that it’s time to ness of politicians throughout the world have frequently brought suffering, pain, and poor government to the ness. The DUP wants to stay part of Britain and feels interact with civilian officials in government, specifically its 10 votes in Parliament keeping the Conservatives law enforcement. I think that would be a very intelligent people they are supposed to serve. Whether this oc- curs because the leaders believe they are legitimately in power give them an advantage in the Brexit discus- move,” Delahunt said in an interview. sions. On the other side, Sinn Fein may feel that they “It would give a lot of credence to the representing their constituents or simply that they are stubborn, the result is the same. will win the next Assembly election so why not stall premise that the church is taking it on any talking. very seriously now.” Our American Civil War with its 600,000 dead is a good example of the devastation wrought when politi- The government shut down has taken place during He recommends that the archdi- the all-important Brexit discussions that will have ocesan officials seek counsel from cians fail in their duties. In the disgraceful case of tiny Northern Ireland a profound impact on life in Northern Ireland. Here current and retired law enforcement again, the fierce resistance of some British leaders officers for methods in dealing with its (with a population – 1.8 million – less than a third of the Massachusetts number) to approve any plan offered to solve the negotiating problems. “It’s not just a question of problems with the European Union is causing delay morality, it’s a question of criminal law religion and power-seeking seem to be the most immediate causes after delay, complicating an already confusing situ- as well,” he said, adding that there are “a plethora of ation. The impact of the British vote to leave Europe people who are retired from law enforcement – not just of a nearly complete abdication of responsibility by the political is going to get a lot worse before next March when police but prosecutors, people who have been involved they have set the date to leave. This will not be good in public service, lawyers who were defense counsel, leadership. It has been 21 months since for anyone. Brexit is still an enormous threat to both people from the community” – who can be “resources to Northern Ireland and Ireland itself. validate the sincerity and the commitment of the church. the local government shut down in a bitter row between leading • While this dark cloud is forming, the Northern We’re losing many people in terms of the laity, who are government is not functioning and its leaders are not waiting for the church to shine the light.” officials in Northern Ireland. And there have been no serious at- being heard. The Assembly is silent on questions like: In the 1970s in Norfolk County, Delahunt said he knew Joe Leary • Will there be a “hard border” with all traffic being “ viscerally” that the county’s rape and assault numbers tempts by the British government to bring the parties together. stopped and recorded along the 302- mile line sepa- were underreported. “We had counselors, people who rating the northern 6 counties from the southern 26. were trained nurses, physicians, and [we saw] the need The Conservative Party now in control of the Brit- ish Parliament and its leader, Prime Minister Teresa • Or will there be a so called “soft border,” allowing for a thoughtful chain of custody approach. We encour- free passage? The soft border is being fought bitterly aged women to speak out. We went from 35 cases one May, have appointed Karen Bradley as Secretary of Northern Ireland. She has been totally ineffective in by many in leadership (Brexiteers) in London as being year to probably over 400 the next year. And these were an infringement on British sovereignty. not ‘stranger rapes’ – it was incest; fathers, brothers, trying to solve the situation. The absurdity of the problem is underlined by the This is a very dangerous argument for all. uncles. What that showed is that this was festering, In the village of Blacklion, Co. Cavan, just across the and it was critical that you address that inclination to fact that the 108 men and women in the Assembly are still getting paid and have access to free office space in border from the village of Belco, County Fermanagh, hide it. Rape got reported pretty well, but these real Northern Ireland, there is a thriving dairy business. incestuous situations; we don’t like to talk about them the Capital buildings at Stormont. Why should they go back to work when they are receiving the funds Lakeland Dairies trucks travel across the border 150 but the reality was that it existed and if you’re going to times a day picking up milk from 2,200 family farms. address it, you had to reveal it, and we did.” anyway? The two major parties, the DUP, led by Arlene Foster, The company Diageo that makes the famous Guin- Delahunt sees a parallel between incestuous assault ness beer and other beverages has plants on both sides and pedophilia in the church: “If we go and we reveal and Sinn Fein, led by Michelle O’Neill, rarely commu- nicate with each other except through the newspapers. of the border. Accorder to Bloomberg News, they send the truth, however ugly that may be, it will serve the trucks across the border about 18,000 times a year. church itself and the laity and the priesthood and all The three lessor parties, the SDLP, the UUP, and the Alliance felt they were not being listened to and have What will become of these businesses if the border those who are committed Catholics. If you tried to hide shuts down? the problem, it festers. And that’s what I believe has refused to participate in the discussions. One of the stumbling blocks is recognition of the For the Northern Ireland Assembly, the time to happened.” speak up is now. Years ago, even recently, he said, “We had to be careful Irish language as part of the Northern Irish culture. not to scandalize; well, now we have to be careful to tell the truth, and put it out there- and then we can address it in a very honest way, in a way that the public at large Off the Bench can be confident that we’re doing something about it.” He added, “We need to know what the truth is and the only way we can get to the truth in my judgment is You want to fight the good fight? by some sort of a mechanism separate and apart from the church that has the confidence of the cardinal. And that is the need for a process that is fair – a realization Heck, no, let’s just ‘fuggetaboutit.’ that accusations in and of themselves are simply that. Public opinion can shift, so there has to be a process that By James W. Dolan bothering them but you want to be kind, so “wuzzamat- allows someone who is accused to say that I didn’t do it, Special to the Reporter ter” takes care of that. After you listen patiently to a that didn’t happen to me. It has to be an honest. … It is In our high anxiety culture, it’s easy to go overboard, reply and realize there’s nothing that can be done, going to be a long and tedious process but I think in the get your undies in a bundle, or freak out over what “fuggetaboutit” offers the way to relief. long run that will restore confidence in how the church we contend with every day. “Wuzzamatter” is a ques- The words are a variation on the theme of that old is handling its problems, and not just for Catholics.” tion on everyone’s mind. No one seems to know how song, “Don’t Worry! Be Happy!” There are things you Summing up, Delahunt said, “I have confidence the to cope with the craziness that cannot influence, let alone control. Why fret? I certainly church will do it. I have confidence in Pope Francis. I surrounds us. So what do you do don’t expect President Trump to Make America Great have confidence in Sean O’Malley. I’ve already seen it to avoid going nuts? You learn Again. But, beyond hoping Special Counsel Mueller in comments by the cardinal as to the need to bring to “fuggetaboutit.” There are no will uncover something that brings him down and in law enforcement. It should be done in a way that’s answers, no solutions only more then voting, there’s not much I can do other than try to thoughtful, that reaches out to the horrific behavior, of the same, so you’d better dull console other troubled souls. “Wuzzamatter” is helpful and, again, in a way that’s fair.” your memory or you’re done for. because it brings a problem to the surface. Seeing that The words are reputed to have it’s hopeless, “fuggetaboutit” puts it in perspective and been passed down from ancient offers a way out. Greek philosophers. This is far from a profile of courage, but it serves as a Some will say stay alert, don’t lifeline to those at the end of their rope, when engage- Boston Irish give up, fight the good fight, but ment is no longer healthy or productive. I remember I say, “It’s over, we lost. Just when my mother came into the kitchen all stressed out REPORTER fuggetaboutit!” The word slides one day and my father, in effect, asked, “wuzzamat- The Boston Irish Reporter is published monthly by: off the tongue so easily. It has ter” and she explained she had crashed into a tree in Boston Neighborhood News, Inc., James W. Dolan a soothing, rhythmic beat that front of the house. He asked “was anyone hurt?” and 150 Mt. Vernon St., Suite 120, Dorchester, MA 02125 rejects involvement and endorses retreat into a languid she tearfully said “no.” A longtime family doctor in [email protected] www.bostonirish.com nirvana where nothing matters and everything runs Dorchester, my father was great in a crisis. He said Mary C. Forry, President (1983-2004) together. Once there, you’re no longer compelled to try “fuggetaboutit” and went back to reading his paper. Edward W. Forry, Publisher Even in a marriage, “wuzzamatter” shows a spouse Thomas F. Mulvoy Jr., Managing Editor to make sense of nonsense. William P. Forry, Editor Wouldn’t you love to see a newspaper that contained how sensitive you are while “fuggetaboutit” provides Peter F. Stevens, Contributing Editor headlines but no stories? Just a statement that nothing an escape route. News Room: (617) 436-1222 important happened, so just “fuggetaboutit.” Or a cable Others may come up with better ways to address Ads : (617) 436-1222 new program with a regular guest who, when asked, difficult situations but in my experience, when small Fax: (617) 825-5516 [email protected] would simply say: “Not important, fuggetaboutit.” problems are on the verge of becoming big ones, noth- On The Web at www.bostonirish.com Losing your memory would be viewed as a blessing, ing calms troubled waters as effectively as that all- Date of Next Issue: October, 2018 not a curse. encompassing, poetic problem solver, burden reliever, Deadline for Next Issue: Thursday, September 20 at 12 noon There are only two words you need to know to express and pithy pronouncement: “Fuggetaboutit!” Published monthly in the first week of each month. James W. Dolan is a retired Dorchester District Court The Boston Irish Reporter is not liable for errors appearing in advertisements beyond your concern and offer some wisdom to those troubled the cost of the space occupied by the error. The right is reserved by The Boston Irish souls spinning in the sensory whirlpool that passes for judge who now practices law. Reporter to edit, reject, or cut any copy without notice. today’s culture. You really don’t want to know what’s bostonirish.com September 2018 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 5 Point of View OF POLITICS AND THE SUFFOCATION OF MORALITY Flashing red lights abound as an autumn reckoning looms

By Peter F. Stevens lesson in that for the US, and Europe, for that matter. BIR Staff Benjamin Franklin, of those founding fathers, Like “the flashing red light” metaphor that National grasped the fragility of a two-party system: “Democ- Security Advisor Dan Coates employed to warn of racy is two wolves and a lamb voting on what to have ongoing Russian disruption of our elections, the im- for lunch. Liberty is a well-armed lamb contesting mortal words of Ireland’s Daniel O’Connell, “The the vote!” Liberator,” define this fractious moment in America’s Numbers Game history: “Nothing is politically right which is morally In Ireland, betting on whether President Trump wrong.” will win a second term, will be impeached, or will be Politics is suffocating morality in ways too numer- forced to resign has led the odds-maker Paddy Powers ous to tally as the rank miasma of the Trump Swamp to shorten its previous odds to punters wagering on seeps from 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue and the halls the Trump administration coming to an end before of Congress to every corner of the nation and beyond. 2018. The odds went from 10-1 to 4-1. Trump foes, don’t hold your breath. The real likelihood of that happening is close to another number—zero. Is the United States facing the juncture that the Paddy Powers has similarly assigned odds on whether Founding Fathers feared? The deeper the Trump Ad- the president finishes his full term. They fell from 10-1 ministration drags the nation down to a lower realm to 4-1. Again, to Trump opponents, it might be a safer that makes Alice’s adventures through the looking bet than the end of this year—but don’t count on it. glass appear normal, the more we have to wonder if John McCain: A profile in courage. Paddy Powers’s odds aside, here are a few numbers the United States is at the edge of autocracy or oli- Donald Trump is masterful at messaging, much that are facts, not fake news. In the 2016 presidential garchy. The president’s full frontal assault on truth, as Democrats refuse to admit it. When it comes to election, approximately 64 percent of eligible voters the First Amendment, the rule of law, immigrants, branding, his simple and simple-minded slogans cast ballots. While Donald Trump won the Electoral race relations, and women’s rights has blended seam- have proven effective. “Make America Great Again” College and Hillary Clinton won the popular vote by lessly with the GOP’s willingness to abandon its own and “Keep America Great Again” teem with racist, some 2.9 million—Donald Trump’s fantasy of voter principles in slavish fear of, or devotion to, Donald J. sexist, and ethnic dog whistles, but their brevity and fraud by undocumented immigrants notwithstand- Trump has truly made his administration like no other lack of nuance work. His branding magnifies the ing—more than 72 million voters stayed home. The in America’s annals. Only the Harding and Grant Democrats’ talent for stepping on their own message actual results show Trump’s 62,894,828 voters ac- presidencies have rivaled the corruption of Donald with clueless mantras. How well did “I’m with Her!” counting for 46.1 percent of the 127,857,058 ballot Trump and his inner circle, not to mention his family. work? About as well as 2018’s “For the People” will total against Clinton’s 48.2 percent. If you take into Mike Murphy, Irish American and renowned GOP likely resonate. Yes, I realize that the phrase is lifted account the approximately 72 million voters who were strategist and consultant, has, like his close friend and from Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address (Lincoln himself no shows, Trump’s actual support comes in at nearly mentor the late, great Senator John McCain, called borrowed it from earlier sources stretching back at 32 percent of the full electorate, with Clinton scarcely out Trump with the same blunt candor that McCain least as far as 1384 England). In today’s America, better at 33 percent. The sad fact is that due to 72 employed. In an interview with CNN’s Chris Cillizza, however, “for the people” is far more familiar as the million voters’ apathy, laziness, or inability to get to Murphy chided the “party of Lincoln” for the “moral slogan of a certain law firm culling “if-you’ve-had-an- the polls, no matter which candidate prevailed, he or cowardice that has overtaken it.” Pulling no punches, accident” business on late-night TV, web ads, Facebook, she, as well as his or her party, would end up holding Murphy contended: “It’s pretty much a Trump cult in etc. Seriously? That’s the best that the Democrats office with the support of about a third of the total the GOP... but like all cults, it’ll end badly.” He added, can come up with after all the money spent on focus electorate. Until more voters wake up—no matter their “The Republican Party needs to be freed of Donald groups to test run a compelling message? preferred party—America will remain a tyranny of the Trump and Trumpism in order to survive.” Blind to History minority. Any president declaring a mandate is cloud- All of which points to what might be a Democratic Countless Democrats and Conservative “Never ing a harsh reality: No matter the margin of victory, it delusion of a “Blue Wave” in the November mid- Trumpers” console themselves with bromides as to how did not denote a majority of eligible voters. Perhaps terms. Democrats are as potentially benighted as the nation has weathered worse—the Civil War, two that is the gravest threat to the American Republic. the president’s hear no evil, speak no evil, see no evil world wars, the Great Depression – and come out in- End-of-Summer Musings political base. Both parties are guilty of “magical tact. Perhaps, but even a cursory glance at the histories The true cynic would aver that our nation’s coin of thinking.” Dems who are putting the proverbial cart of other experiments in Democracy or Republicanism corruption has the face of Donald Trump on one side, before the horse in regard to impeachment do so at their cast shade at such wistful optimism. Look at ancient and the faces of Bill and Hillary Clinton on the other. political peril. Making the midterms a referendum on Athens, where the very term democracy took root … Trump’s petty conduct following the death of John Donald Trump is fine, but until or unless impeachable from “demos”—“the populace of a political unit.” That McCain, and Donald, Jr.’s gem about Watergate titan offenses or illegal deeds emerge from Robert Mueller, democratic experiment took root but eventually with- Carl Bernstein as a “leftist hack” speak volumes about from the federal and state investigations in New York, ered. The ancient Romans? Even more sobering for the paucity of character of both father and son. If from a dark corner of the Enquirer’s safe, or from the present-day cynics, worriers, or intellectual types Louisa May Alcott were still on the scene, her editor Kremlin, the reek of the Thump swamp, the prospect who have put on historical blinders. In a BBC piece might be urging the authoress of “Little Women” to that the House (forget about the Senate—the GOP will that examines the death of the Roman Republic, the pen a follow-up entitled “Little Men.” … Rest in peace, hold there) will be taken by the Democrats is hardly estimable classical historian Mary Beard wrote: “In Senator McCain. No vitriol from the President or his a foregone conclusion. The Trumpites will turn out in 133 B.C., Rome was a democracy. Little more than a acolytes can tarnish your sacrifice and service to our November, as will energized Democrats, but unless hundred years later it was governed by an emperor.” nation. America always knew where you stood, and enough white women and so-called Independents have She continued: “Rome prided itself on being a ‘free throughout your final valiant battle against cancer, been repulsed enough to turn on Trump, the blue wave republic,’ and centuries later was the political model you stood virtually alone among your party in speaking could prove to be no more than a blue ripple. for the founding fathers of the United States.” truth to power when it came to Donald J. Trump. As Every election cycle, we hear that it is the most impor- While no two societies are completely alike, the with all men and women, you made mistakes from tant one ever. For once, the adage might be true. This point is obvious for all those who profess that we in time to time; unlike virtually any other politician, you November, the answer as to whether the voters opt to America are so special that we are invulnerable to admitted your infrequent errors publicly. Unlike the place a legislative barrier on the president or choose authoritarian government. “Magical thinking” does man who occupies the only public office to elude you, you instead to plant him and his family squarely above not make the Declaration of Independence and the had the courage to apologize if you mis-stepped. Yours the law, above the separation of powers, and above Constitution immune from those who would reshape was truly a Profile in Courage as a warrior, a POW, a the Constitution, dangles in the balance. or tear up both in the pursuit of power and wealth. It Congressman, a senator, and, above all, as a patriot Word Games happened to Athens. It happened to Rome. There’s a to the core. A Catholic pastor talks about horror and shame, and prays that Church can ‘start time up again’ Following is the sermon delivered by the pastor of St. to this table and do each Sunday what Jesus did the with us and civil society Gregory’s Parish, Rev. Jack Ahern, to his congregation night before he died, we remember his life of selfless has lost confidence in us. at Masses last Saturday and Sunday: compassion and generous service and remind ourselves And my sense is that if Rev. Jack Ahern that the love of God can re-create our world, a world we have any hope of mov- “Seamus Heaney was one of the great Irish poets that is broken in so many places and scarred on so ing forward as a Church in addressing this crisis, “sub- of our time. The Nobel laureate’s work reflected the many hearts. stantial involvement of laity” from law enforcement, profound spiritual connection between God’s creation The last month or so as we have heard and read psychology, and other disciplines will be essential and the Irish soul. A few years ago, Heaney was asked stories concerning Cardinal McCarrick’s long history to this process. We need the laity’s prayer, energy, to contribute to a book on the spiritual lives of major of abuse and infidelity; possible instances of sexual resolve, perspective, expertise, judgment – and the figures in the arts and sciences. He responded with a harassment and intimidation at St. John’s Seminary in pressure that comes from having been burned more two-page [answer] from his home in Dublin. He began Brighton; and last week’s horrific and damning grand than once. by thanking the writer for her gracious invitation, and jury report on sexual abuse by clergy in Pennsylvania As we deal with this horror and shame, we walk then apologized. and its cover-up by bishops. Most of us are shaken to away saying the Church is broken in so many places Spirituality was the one part of his life, he replied, the core. and scarred on so many hearts. But, like Cardinal about which he felt he was “woefully inarticulate.” On These all too many acts of abuse (and one is too Sean, I am not without hope that the Church can turn the second page he included a short poem, writing, many) were betrayals of trust that robbed victims itself around by embracing spiritual conversion and “Here, perhaps you can use it in some small fashion in and survivors of their dignity and faith. Those who demanding legal transparency and pastoral account- your book.” He titled it “A Found Poem,” and part of it have suffered must be our priority. The welfare, ability for all who carry out the mission of the Church. was his memory of attending Mass in his village church: well-being, and healing of survivors of abuse is more In the sacrament of the Body and Blood of the Lord, “Like everybody else, I bowed my head important than any concern for the Church’s reputa- Seamus Heaney reminds us, God enables us to “start during the consecration of the bread and wine, tion or financial stability. time up again” by becoming what we receive here – lifted my eyes to the raised host and raised chalice, In addition to those who abused and those in leader- “bread blessed and broken in love for one another believed (whatever it means) that a change occurred. ship within the Church who permitted the abuse to as Christ was broken for us, sharing together the I went to the altar rails and received the mystery occur and to continue must be held accountable for cup of every life’s joys and sorrows in which God is on my tongue, returned to my place, shut my eyes these criminal and morally reprehensible acts. constantly present.” fast, made Cardinal Sean in a letter written to us a few days May God continue to be with us on this difficult an act of thanksgiving, opened my eyes and felt ago that is available at the doors of the church fears journey. time starting up again.” * the Church has little time left to repair its badly * Published in “The God Factor: Inside the Spiritual For Heaney, the act of taking bread and wine as damaged reputation. “The clock is ticking for all of Lives of Public People,” by Cathleen Falsani. Jesus did is “time starting up again.” When we come us in Church leadership; Catholics have lost patience Page 6 September 2018 BOSTON IRISH Reporter bostonirish.com Irish International Immigrant Center Immigration Q&A An agency accredited by US Department of Justice Play it straight on One State Street, 8th Floor, Boston, MA 02109 (617) 542-7654 Fax (617) 542-7655 Website:iiicenter.org Email: [email protected] immigration forms Q. I’m applying for legal permanent residence in the Celebrating US, based on my marriage to a US citizen. I’m undocu- Citizenship mented, and I’ve been working here for several years Join us as we celebrate without authorization from the immigration authorities. citizenship and diversity I see that the forms involved in the process for getting in honor of September’s a green card include questions about my employment National Citizenship Day. history as far back as five years ago. I’m concerned that New Americans will share my application will be denied if I list my jobs in the US. their journeys to citizen- What should I do? ship and we invite you to share what citizenship A. Quite simply, you need to tell the truth in re- means to you. Refresh- sponse to all the questions on the forms filed with US ments will be provided. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This Please RSVP to Francesca means not just making true statements; it also means Paranzino at fparanzino@ not omitting facts when asked for them. iiicenter.org. Some applicants are tempted to say that they have been unemployed for their entire time in the US or to LEGAL ASSISTANCE Irish Language Chat The Irish International simply leave blanks where job information is sought. Immigrant Center’s im- speak to an immigration Bliain na Gaeilge 2018 This program connects Likewise, some applicants think that they can get away migration attorneys and attorney, please call us at with us by enrolling in one companies here in the with denying past involvement with the criminal justice social workers are avail- 617- 542-7654. of our Fall Irish Language United States with top system in the US or abroad or with omitting reference able for all immigrants Classes starting on Sept. students from the Univer- to past entries into the US or past marriages, for ex- during this time of un- Irish Language 12th for beginners, and sity of Ulster who bring ample. This belief often is based on rumors or hearsay certainty and concern Night wrapup Sept. 13th for intermedi- strong business skills, in- about some acquaintance who allegedly got away with in our community. We The IIIC’s third and fi- ate and advanced levels. ternational perspective, this in the past. Applicants need to realize that the are closely following the nal Irish Language Night For more details contact commitment, and work Department of Homeland Security and the FBI run changes in immigration of the Summer was held [email protected] or ethic to host businesses. criminal background checks on applicants that reach policies, and are avail- at the Irish Consulate in call 617.542.7654 x15. This placement year con- records worldwide. Plus, US arrival and departure able for confidential, le- Boston. We were joined tributes to students’ uni- records are held in a computerized database and are gal consultations, and by returning students versity degrees, and pro- easily retrievable by immigration officers. Finally, case representation. At and some brand new vides them with hands-on the interviews for adjustment of status applicants are weekly legal clinics, you faces as well. To help us international experience. conducted by experienced USCIS officers who are adept can receive a free and celebrate the year of the At the launch, Ulster at detecting falsehoods in applications. confidential consultation Irish Language, we part- University exchange visi- with staff and volunteer nered with Cumann na tor students and their There are potentially two major consequences when attorneys. For informa- Gaeilge, the facilitator of internship placement su- certain false statements or omissions are detected: (1) tion, or if you or anyone these nights with us. You pervisors gathered to dis- The immigration benefit sought could be denied, and you know would like to can continue to celebrate cuss the program, to learn the applicant will risk deportation; and (2) making a more about one another, false statement or omitting a material fact on an ap- and to network. IIIC’s own plication form (as well as submitting any false docu- Upcoming Clinic Schedules intern, Niamh McAteer of ments to accompany an application) is equivalent to Clinics are in the evening – please do not arrive Niamh University Pro- Ulster University, spoke perjury, a federal felony that could result not just in more than 30 minutes before the clinic begins. gram Photo at the luncheon, com- deportation but prosecution and imprisonment in the menting on her first few US beforehand. Downtown Boston – IIIC, One State Street, 8th months in Boston, and Floor, Boston. Tuesdays Sept. 4 and 18 at 4 p.m. University Program on the impact that this It is therefore crucial to understand the importance Brighton – The Green Briar Pub, 304 Washing- for 2018 in full swing opportunity will have on of submitting complete and accurate applications to ton Street, Brighton. Mon., Sept. 10, at 6:30 p.m. at Irish Consulate her professional career in USCIS. The good news for adjustment of status ap- Dorchester – St. Mark’s Parish hall, 1725 The IIIC’s University the years to come. plicants who are immediate relatives of US citizens Dorchester Avenue, Dorchester. Wed., Sept. 26, Program, in partner- The IIIC is pleased to (spouses, parents, unmarried children under 21) is 6:30 p.m. ship with Ulster Univer- partner on the program that unlawful presence in the US and unauthorized Citizenship Clinics sity in Belfast, has been with Norbella Media, unemployment are not in themselves grounds for de- At the IIIC offices every Wednesday from 10 launched, and we at the Faithful + Gould, Sa- nying an application. Likewise, some minor criminal a.m. to 1 p.m. Walk-ins are welcome! Our Down- IIIC are thankful to the miotes Consulting, and offenses, if openly disclosed, are not necessarily a bar town Boston location is fully accessible by public Irish Consulate in Boston Gentle Giant, Iron Moun- to permanent residence. However, anyone who has a transportation. Phone: 617-542-7654 | Fax: 617- for hosting the startup of tain, The Concord Group, criminal record, no matter how minor and how long 542-7655. iiicenter.org. the 2018 program on Fri., NY Temperature Control, ago, and no matter what the outcome of the case was, Aug. 17. and Middleton Construc- needs advice from a lawyer competent to practice im- tions and to support migration law before proceeding with any application 12 students across the to US immigration authorities. United States. The IIIC You can visit one of IIIC’s weekly legal clinics as extends thanks as well advertised in the Boston Irish Reporter for a free, con- to TD Garden, Brookline fidential consultation on this or any other immigration Bank, and Carbonite for law issue. joining the luncheon and for their interest. Disclaimer: These articles are published to inform If you are interested in generally, not to advise in individual cases. Immigration hosting an Irish student law is always subject to change. The US Citizenship at your business, please and Immigration Services and US Department of State contact Paul Pelan (ppe- frequently amend regulations and alter processing and [email protected] or 617- filing procedures. For legal advice seek the assistance 542-7654). of IIIC legal services staff.

Please contact Megan Miller to sponsor a table, reserve your seat, or for additional information at [email protected] and 617-695-1554. bostonirish.com September 2018 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 7

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5. 6. BRETT’S BOSTON By Harry Brett Exclusive photos of Boston Irish people & events

Several dozen volunteers came together at South Boston’s St. Augustine Cemetery on Sat., Aug 18, to help clean old gravestones as the community prepares to celebrate 7. the 200th anniversary of the historic burial ground, believed to be the first Catholic cem- 8. etery in Boston. The effort was undertaken under the watchful eye of Kim Zunino, from the New England-Northeastern chapter of the Association for Gravestone Studies (AGS), a Greenfield MA non-profit founded to further the study and preservation of gravestones. A yearlong bicentennial obser- vance is planned for the weekend of Sept 14-16, with a Mass offered by Cardinal Sean O’Malley in the cemetery chapel on Satur- day the 15th.

1.) Elaine Fallon, South Boston; 2.) Marie Urban, South Boston.; Mary Joyce Morris, South Boston; Kim Zunino, North Andover; Mary Bulger, South Boston; 3.) Paul Lyons, Knights of Columbus, South Boston; 4.) Court- ney Walton and Logan Bente, both of South Boston; 5.) Ray and Kathy Flynn with a group of volunteers; 6.) Jack Joyce, South Boston; 7.) Rick Winterson, South Boston; 8.) Kathy and Ray Flynn; 9.) Mary Bulger, South Boston; 10.) Margaret and Congressman Steve Lynch, South Boston. 9. 10. Page 8 September 2018 BOSTON IRISH Reporter bostonirish.com ‘Hamnet,’ Shakespeare’s Lost Boy, at ArtsEmerson

By R. J. Donovan As an actor, director, and author, Bush knowledge . . . what they’re getting them- Special to the BIR Moukarzel has worked with Painted selves into – their instinct, in both cases. Shakespeare stands as one the world’s Filly Theatre, Rough Magic Theatre, and Q. Do audiences need to be fluent in most famous writers, yet much of his Druid Theatre Company, among others. Shakespeare to understand the show. personal life lies blurred in mystery. The The Dead Centre co-founder also holds a A. Certainly not. I make shows that Bard had only one son, Hamnet, born in master of philosophy in psychoanalytic my Mum would like . . . With all our 1585 and named for a local friend. The studies from Trinity College Dublin. projects, of course, we try to do our playwright reportedly spent little time We spoke about “Hamnet” by phone homework. We assume that if you with his family in Stratford-upon-Avon, before Bush left home for Boston. Here’s have a working knowledge of the stuff, abandoning them to further his career an edited look at our conversation. it’s made richer or more touching, but in London. Q. This is a challenging show for a no. The event itself has to . . . possess In 1596 he received word that Hamnet, young actor. How did you find your stars? all its questions and then its answers then 11-years-old, was seriously ill. By A. In both instances, it’s just been within the evening It’s a sort of little the time he returned to Stratford, the organic . . . In the case of Ollie, we didn’t Rubik’s Cube. Everything is contained boy was gone, never having had the op- go looking . . . We didn’t really want to go in the night. portunity to know his father. through the process of a casting call for Q. The show employs multimedia ArtsEmerson is kicking off its 9th a load of kids we didn’t know. When you technology. What went into that choice? season with the Dead Centre theater don’t really know what the show’s going A. Simply out, you always want to try production of “Hamnet,” co-directed and to be yourself, you can’t so confidently to – and this can be humbly said because co-written by Bush Moukarzel and Ben say it’s going to be this or that. It’s an it’s an ambition, it’s up to the audience to Kidd. Performances run from Sept. 20 unknown . . . I knew his parents well. The judge – you always want to try to make to Oct. 7 at Emerson’s Paramount Cen- great thing about his having parents in something people have never seen before, ter. This marks the only US engagement the theater was that he adjusted to all you know? You want, with every piece of the critically acclaimed play. the rhythms of what it means to make a of theater, to broaden the possibilities Set in a contemporary flash of iPhones show . . . Already the anxiety level is low. of what tools we have at our disposal to and backpacks, we meet a boy frozen Q. And Aran? tell our stories. in limbo. He’s doomed to living in the A. We were running the show at the Q. ArtsEmerson has been integral in shadow of greatness, exploring life, Dublin Theater Festival and Ollie was bringing “Hamnet” to the states. loss, and a father to whom he has little being a bad ass, nailing it. It was so A. It only has had a couple of runs in connection. great. The whole audience was basically Europe. We were on in London, Glasgow, The Irish Times called the multimedia grownups . . . And yet there was one little Dublin and Berlin. It’s been seen by experience “uncanny” and “mesmer- guy in the audience. That had been Aran. European programmers and we’ve had izing,” noting the play’s “striking con- His parents had brought Aran and his talks. But in the states, I think David siderations of mortality and meaning . brother to the show . . . . He was really (Dower, AE’s Artistic Director) is the only . . the halting and flowing relationship digging it and asking about the show. person who’s seen it. And he was a big between an abandoned son and his re- How did you do this, and how did you do advocate . . . (With a young performer) morseful father.” that that trick, and how that’s so cool . we can’t exactly build a big tour and Only a very special actor can carry such . . The demographic of people who saw be on the road for months . . . So what an emotionally complex show. The first the show, who were eligible to be cast in we said to David is that, look, we’ll do two weeks of the run will star Ollie West, it, was one – and that was Aran Murphy a run. He’s going to try to get the right praised for his meticulous portrayal of . . . We reached out to the parents, chat- people in the room and we’ll see if it has Hamnet in Europe. The final week of ted, it just felt right. a life . . . We’ll take it one Bostonian step performances will introduce young Aran Q. Can such a young actor fully under- at a time. Murphy to the role. stand the demands of carrying a show? R. J. Donovan is editor and publisher Dead Centre was founded in Dublin of onstageboston.com. in 2012 by Moukarzel and Kidd. The A. You have to go through the care- ••• company has built a solid reputation Ollie West is Shakespeare’s only ful stretch of how you ask them if they Dead Centre’s “Hamnet,” ArtsEmer- while earning multiple industry honors, son in Dead Centre’s “Hamnet,” at want to do it, because the answer is son’s Paramount Center, 559 Washing- including The Irish Times Theatre Award Emerson’s Paramount Center, Sept. yes, straightaway. So can’t take yes for ton St., Boston. Info: 617-824-8400, or for Best Production, a Fringe First, a 20 - Oct. 7 an answer . . . What it is mostly, is that ArtsEmerson.org. Herald Angel, a Total Theatre Award, Gianmarco Bresadola photo you ask them over a period of time. Just and two OBI Awards. ‘til they really know, to the best of their

Celebrating 28 years “Telling the Stories of Boston’s Irish”

Boston Irish Honors 2018 Committee You are cordially invited Honorary Chairs to the 28th Anniversary Luncheon Edward J. Markey, United States Senator Sponsored by the Boston Irish Reporter Martin J. Walsh, Mayor of Boston Thursday, October 18, 2018 Shane Cahill, Consul General of Ireland Seaport Hotel, Main Ballroom One Seaport Lane, Boston MA Ed Forry, Event Chair Aiden Browne BOSTON IRISH HONORS James T. Brett William M. Bulger John Burke James Carmody John T. Carroll Della Costello Steve Costello Diddy & John Cullinane Brendan Feeney Dick Flavin 2018 Honorees John Philip Foley Bill Forry Sen. Linda Dorcena Forry REV. RICHARD “DOC” CONWAY Maureen Forry-Sorrell Anne Geraghty David Greaney DR. TREVOR J. McGILL, M.D. Jim Hunt III John B. Hynes III Edris Kelley MARY and BOB SCANNELL Rev. Thomas B. Kennedy Mimi & Paul LaCamera Sean Moynihan Mike Sheehan Bob Sheridan Registration begins 11:15 a.m. Mary Sugrue Gil Sullivan Bobby White Luncheon 11:45 a.m. W. Paul White $150 per guest, Table of 10, $1500

Reservations: [email protected]. Sponsorship opportunities available - please call 617-436-1222 bostonirish.com September 2018 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 9 First-time author delves into Boston’s racial divide Novel revolves around an that existed 30 years ago. Murphy asserts that the heightened profile of racial issues in recent years interracial friendship in created a renewed sense of urgency that his book, which he first wrote for a UMB writing class in 1998, should be shared with others. “I was kind of taken times of urban tension by surprise,” he said. “When you see certain recent events, you’re like, wow this is still happening?” By Dan Sheehan Murphy added that Nelson Miranda, BC High’s Reporter Staff director of diversity and a classmate of his whom he Michael Patrick Murphy knows that history is consulted while writing the book, told him that some cyclical. The South Shore native spent the forma- of the issues from 1990 remain at the school today. tive part of his adolescence in South Boston and More widely, it’s no secret that race is still a prob- Dorchester, attending Boston College High School lem in 2018 Boston. Just last week, the Boston Globe and UMass Boston. At that time, running from the published a piece on the city’s “resegregating” of the late ‘80s through the early ‘90s, racial tension was public schools. Days before, a public, bigoted tirade at a high level. Although the desegregation of the against a black man and a black woman in Adams city’s public schools had been happening since the Village made headlines nationally. While Boston has mid-1970s, it was just starting to take place at pri- certainly changed a lot in recent years, there are still vate and parochial schools, which at that point were some people, places, and institutions mired in stasis, almost exclusively white. said Murphy, a student of history who says he can’t Murphy’s first book, “Neighborhood Lines,” fol- help but feel that scenes from his teenage memory lows the relationship that is forged between Nate, a are being replayed in the city today. black student from Dorchester, and Patrick, a white, “I’ve always been intrigued by history,” he said. Irish-Catholic from Southie, as their worlds collide at “Ideally, you learn so many things from history. You Cathedral High School in the South End. The story learn from history and don’t repeat it.” is fictional, but, as Murphy explained in an interview This historical awareness informs Murphy’s book, with the Reporter, it’s loosely based on people from which is enhanced by a handful of infamous photos Murphy’s life and from events that shaped the reality Michael Patrick Murphy, a student of history. that accompany the text – the incident in which Mayor of life in Boston at that time. en,” said Murphy. “It was very emotional for me. I Flynn was hit in the neck with a bottle during a riot The three-year span from 1989 to 1991 saw Bos- didn’t know [Noble] too well, but I was friends with outside South Boston High School, and a look back ton’s murder rate climb to some of the highest levels a lot of Adams Corner guys and Savin Hill guys who to the time when “Irish Need Not Apply” caveats in the city’s history. Murphy was then a student at hung around with him all the time.” adorned help wanted signs at Boston businesses. BC High, a Jesuit school for boys in grades 9 to 12 Murphy’s book is his attempt to capture the chaos The photos “helped to show that reality,” said that was just beginning a program to enroll black of that time as he explores the ethnic and class lines Murphy. “We’re all immigrants here, we all come students at the school in higher numbers. According that have long divided, and still divide, Boston, and here and arrive and have to take our place, earn to Murphy, the demographic changes created tension writes about what happened when those lines were our place in society...Being able to understand each at the Morrissey Boulevard school. crossed some 30 years ago. other’s cultures, each other’s views, can create unity “It definitely impacted a lot of lives,” he said. “I But his story also delves into the positive ways at a better level.” was friendly with a bunch of guys, but you know, that diversity can have an impact on people’s lives. At the launch of “Neighborhood Lines” last month there were fights in the schoolyard, in the gym, at Just as Murphy says he did during his time at BC at the Revere Hotel, Murphy mingled with some of JFK train station.” High, Nate and Patrick overcome obstacles from their his old classmates from South Boston and Dorchester. This uneasiness reached a boiling point in 1990 personal lives to become friends and learn that, while It was a sort of revival of friendships that had been when a 15-year-old Don Bosco High School student, they were leading very different lives with different forged, like Nate’s and Patrick’s, across racial and Robert Noble, was gunned down on Ashmont Street backgrounds, they also faced similar struggles. geographic borders. “Seeing the interactions between near Neponset for, as Murphy put it, “five dollars and “It wasn’t easy back then, but it was something we these guys, white and black, it was amazing,” he said. a gold chain. Boston Police later identified his killer all went through and got through, and it made us all “I was thinking to myself, ‘This is exactly why I wrote as a Dorchester teenager from Fields Corner who had more well-rounded, cultured people,” the author said. the book. This is why the program was started.’” targeted Noble for a robbery after his car had run The book is targeted at high schoolers in the hopes “Neighborhood Lines” is available for purchase, out of gas nearby. The assailant was later gunned that they might learn from the past and use that both in hard copy and ebook form, on Amazon and down in New York City, according to investigators. knowledge when they look at a world today that at neighborhoodlines.com. “That impacted us all, it caused tensions to height- is still plagued by much of the racism and bigotry

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SEPTEMBER 28

888-616-0272 | EMERSONCOLONIALTHEATRE.COM @emersoncolonial Page 10 September 2018 BOSTON IRISH Reporter bostonirish.com Scottish Fish creates a ‘Splash’ by thinking outside the box By Sean Smith BIR Correspondent It’s been a heady last five years or so for Scottish Fish, a fiddles-and-cello quintet of five young Boston-area women who play traditional and original music in the Scottish and Cape Breton style. During that period, the band has evolved from a group of eager kids who honed their skills at the Boston Harbor Scottish Fiddle School (BHSFS) to a performance-quality ensemble that has appeared at Club Passim, Boston Celtic Music Fest, and WGBH-FM’s “A Celtic Sojourn,” among other venues. They received some national exposure when American Girl magazine ran a feature on them last year. They’ve also released their first album, “Splash,” produced with an assist from the Iguana Music Fund, a grant program for New England artists administered through Passim. Now, a transition looms: The four oldest Fish, Ava Montesi, Giulia Haible, Julia Homa, and Caroline Dressler, are heading off to college while the young- est one, Maggie MacPhail, is beginning high school. There will be adjustments to new surroundings, new faces, new routines, as well as new opportunities for musical – and personal – growth, but even as they contemplate this rite of passage, the Fish are confident that their partnership, and their friendship, will endure. “Being in the band has made me grow as a musician so much,” says Haible, who plays cello and piano. “I’ve also had so much fun with them. I wouldn’t really be where I am now without the Fish. I would love to continue playing with them because people seem to really enjoy us Scottish Fish: From left, Giulia Haible, Maggie MacPhail, Caroline Dressler, Julia Homa and Ava Montesi. as a band, and I’m excited to see how we develop musically because I’m very these young musicians – preparing to “Our creative process is a very social producer, a decision they are extremely proud of where we are now.” give a concert that evening – happened thing,” says Dressler. “When we practice, grateful that they made. On a recent steamy summer day out- upon a bag of Swedish Fish candy in it’s a slightly more refined jam session. “Katie was a big part of the band early side an Arlington café, the members of their dormitory. There was great rejoic- Someone will play a funny riff, and give on, and has been such a help to us over Scottish Fish reflected on life as a middle/ ing, and great enthusiasm, one thing led it a funny name, and then it becomes the years,” says Dressler. “She was that high school-age folk music band, and the to another, and “Swedish Fish” became part of the way we put a tune and a set ‘outside ear’ we needed to do the record- experiences and people – like supportive, transmogrified to “Scottish Fish,” the together. So there are all these little in- ing, somebody who could tell us to pay dutiful parents and other caring adults name under which they performed that jokes and memories folded into the sets attention to this or that, and help us – that have helped make it all possible. night (the final line-up, however, didn’t we do. And when we’re playing them in focus on listening to one another.” A lot of these elements are represented take shape until 2013). They became concert, even as we’re focusing on the (McNally also perhaps unwittingly over the 10 tracks that make up “Splash,” fixtures at Boston Harbor, and received arrangements and so on, we’ll look at provided the impetus for the whimsi- and in fact the process of making the encouragement and support from school each other, maybe wiggle our knees or cal riff that opens the John McCusker album was itself an important milestone faculty like Hanneke Cassel and Katie do something that says, ‘Remember that composition “Simon Thoumire’s Jig”: for the Fish. McNally, two of the band’s foremost one time we played this?’” According to band members, it started “Doing the album really helped us mentors – McNally, in fact, served as “Splash” is full of these kind of remi- out as “a joke to test Katie’s patience” change from being a ‘ceilidh band’ to a producer for “Splash.” niscences, often shared in the album’s but they liked it so much that it wound concert band,” says Dressler. “It defined “Individually they are all creative and liner notes, such as the swaggering up in the final arrangement.) what our music is about. We learned a talented, and together they spark each “Biggles Bogs,” the first tune ever written As many a musician or band has dis- lot about ourselves and the way we work other, pushing each other even further by the group, its title derived from the covered, the recording process can be together.” to make amazing music,” says Cassel. name they gave their favorite spot on unforgiving: That which you think you “We’ve had people tell us they’re sur- “When I saw them perform recently, I Thompson Island; “Biggles Bog” segues, know, you have to know better. And the prised we’re still together,” says Montesi. was so inspired not just by their perfect with a dramatic build-up, into “Road to Fish found themselves spending lots of “They knew us when we were younger, ability to play together and to drive it, Errogie,” a reel written by fiddler Adam time practicing and polishing tunes, when we were these cute little kids at but also by their quirky way of arrang- Sutherland (with one of those B parts sets, and arrangements to get up to fiddle camp. And we got lots of help and ing things –both incredibly musical and only a fiddler could love), whom the Fish studio quality. support because we were young, which just a little unusual. They always think studied with at Boston Harbor – and once “It seems like an obvious thing, but was definitely a big help. But we’ve gone outside the box, musically, socially, and targeted in “a giant water fight.” no matter how long you’ve been playing, through this adjustment period where in their friendships. They are incredible “Jock Broon/Superfly” – by, respec- individually or together, you don’t just we had to take what we’ve learned and young women and I’m looking forward tively, Gordon Duncan and Kevin O’Neil ‘stay good,’” says Dressler. “You have make our own music. So now we have to what the future holds for all of them.” – dates back to the Fish’s early days, a to go back and work at it, really listen this album we can point to and say, ‘OK, Cassel and McNally are high-profile set they played at a fundraiser (“before carefully to how you sound, and say, this is Scottish Fish.’” exponents of the American-Scottish we knew all the notes”), while “My Cape ‘How can we do this better?’” The band’s name, like a lot of its his- fiddle style, a key influence in the Scot- Breton Home” – a waltz written by fiddle The post-recording/post-production tory, is linked with BHSFS, the weeklong tish Fish sound: It blends Scottish char- legend Jerry Holland – expresses their phase of the project also imparted some all-ages fiddle school that has taken place acteristics like percussive, flamboyant affection and gratitude for the places important lessons to the band, as Montesi on Thompson Island in Boston Harbor grace notes, and alterations in bowing whence came the Scottish and Cape explains. “It took us a year to actually every August since 2003 under the and improvisational passages associated Breton music traditions. Catriona Mac- release the album after we’d recorded it. auspices of the Folk Arts Center of New more with American fiddling. In a typical Donald’s effusive “The Joy of It” recalls We could’ve done it a lot faster, but we England. Some of the Fish already knew Fish set, fiddles and cello tend to swap an evening at Montesi’s when McNally didn’t communicate together as well as each other before they began attend- off on melody, harmony, counterpoint or taught them the tune and encouraged we could have and we let things slide. So ing, and not all of them were versed in rhythm; sometimes all play in unison, them to write a harmony for it – which now we know what we have to do when Celtic fiddle, but it was at Boston Harbor other times a single instrument is em- they did, to great effect. there’s something important coming up where everything clicked. A good reason phasized, perhaps with a steady drone The “Dot McKinnon/Jura Wedding” and decisions have to be made.” for this, as the Fish explain, is that at or spare accompaniment from the others. reel set (a medley of tunes by Kevin Toward that end, right after appear- Boston Harbor, classes are only part of Integral to this is a rhythmic groove, with Chaisson and Donald Shaw) is a more ing on a live WGBH-FM broadcast this the way you learn: There are after-hours syncopated bowing or “chopping” from recent Fish creation that was inspired summer, the band held a meeting to jam sessions, performance opportunities, fiddles or cello that gives the traditional in part by hearing bands with fiddles map out plans for the next year: when and people to befriend and bond with, music form a quite modern pulse. and drums. In Fish parlance, this is their school breaks coincided, when they including the school faculty. Of course, the other distinguishing informally titled “The Knocking Set,” figure on practicing (“It’ll probably be “I didn’t know anything about this trait of the Scottish Fish sound is the with the band playing percussive beats over Thanksgiving – sorry, family, that’s fiddle community until I went to Boston personality with which the five infuse it. on their instruments at the beginning. the way it goes,” quips Dressler), and Harbor,” says Montesi. “There were so While there is a certain method to their “We really liked the sound of the per- so on. They have a December 8 show at many amazing people, and you just arrangements, the Fish always strive for cussion, and we wanted to do something Club Passim already lined up, and next wanted to be part of what they were do- the spontaneity of a fiddle camp session. like that,” says MacPhail. “None of us summer they might do a tour, or even ing. Once you have friends, everything “Jamming is the best part of this music play percussion instruments, though, go back into the studio. just takes off.” – it’s something we’ve always enjoyed,” so we said, ‘Hey, why don’t we knock on “I think our arrangements in particu- “The Boston fiddle scene is just so says Homa. “So our sets definitely have our fiddles?’” lar have evolved a lot since we started and huge,” says MacPhail. “There are a lot a fiddle jam quality to them.” Recording an album had been on the I know that if we keep playing together, of Irish players, of course, but there are Haible agrees. “Keeping the sponta- band’s “timeline” almost from the begin- they will continue to do so,” says Haible, also a lot of Scottish and Cape Breton neous energy onstage makes it much ning, according to the Fish. By 2016, “and I really look forward to that.” fiddlers, too, and everybody loves to get more fun and engaging for the audience. they felt they had accumulated enough For more about Scottish Fish, see scot- together and play music for hours.” Sometimes it’s nice for a concert to be a of a repertoire to go into the studio, so tishfishfiddle.com. So it was that one day at the 2011 camp, bit ‘looser’ and not extremely refined.” they asked McNally to serve as their bostonirish.com September 2018 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 11 A Q & A with Paul Brady Celebrated singer/songwriter talks about ‘Unfinished Business,’ among other things Paul Brady, a promi- Pulitzer Prize-winning all kind of summed up in generation’s life, even as nent figure in Irish music poet Paul Muldoon, and the album title: I’m not other generations have for nearly five decades, two traditional songs on finished doing what I’m discovered it as well. Andy will come to the City which Irvine appears. going to do -- just in case always had his arsenal of Winery in Boston for a Brady recently took time anyone thought I’d ridden songs, from Woody Guth- solo concert on Sept. 12. A from preparing for his US off into the sunset. rie to Bulgaria, and I had native of Strabane, Brady tour to speak with Sean mine. I feel we approached first gained attention in Smith of the Boston Irish Q. Among the outstand- folk in different ways. I traditional and folk music Reporter. ing features of “Unfinished listened to a lot of different circles as a member of the Business” are the collab- stuff – blues, R&B, coun- ballad group The John- Q. Paul, the way you’ve orative efforts between try, Motown, pop – and I stons in the late 1960s. The described it, this album you and other writers, always liked to focus on 1970s saw Brady estab- wasn’t planned in any notably Paul Muldoon. the arrangements, to take lish himself as one of the way: That is, you didn’t sit The songs you and he them apart to see what Irish folk revival’s lead- down and say to yourself, worked on (“I Like How works. But Andy and I ing musicians through a “I’m going to make some You Think,” “I Love You just seemed to click from series of recordings with kind of an artistic state- But You Love Him,” “Say the start, and we always traditional artists like ment.” Can you talk a little You Don’t Mean”) are felt easy with each other. Tommy Peoples and Andy about the way “Unfinished chock full of literary and We’re actually going to McGann, a stint with Business” came about? pop culture references, and do a few shows together the legendary Planxty, a A. I’m a songwriter, I some amazing wordplay. this fall with Donal Lunny historic partnership with write all the time. I just How did this partnership and Kevin Burke, and I’m Andy Irvine, and then a had a bunch of songs to- come about? certainly looking forward solo career; this period gether and wanted to see A. I’ve known Paul to that. We played with produced two landmark what I could do with them. since the 1970s, when we them last year, too; there recordings, the Brady- I’m not really interested met at an arts festival in was some film shot of Irvine album and Brady’s in simply putting out al- Fermanagh, and he was the tour, which is being own “Welcome Here, Kind bums, rounding up people on the bill. Several years edited as a TV program Stranger.” His distinc- to work in the studio for ago, we ran into each other and maybe a DVD. tive vocals, his prowess a set period of time. But I at a reunion concert for Q. You mentioned your on guitar and mandolin did want to get the songs the band Horslips. I knew fondness for different (just two of the many on tape, as it were, to see Paul had written for other kinds of music, like rock Paul Brady, who will perform at the City Winery instruments he plays), how they sounded outside pop singers, like Warren and pop. That’s been Boston September 12: “I’m not finished doing what and his interpretation of my mind, so for a while Zevon, and I asked him reflected in many of the I’m going to do -- just in case anyone thought I’d of traditional songs like I just did it for fun; I was “Do you fancy writing albums you’ve released ridden off into the sunset.” “Arthur McBride and the my own recording engi- a song?” So he sent me since the 1980s, like “Hard Sergeant,” “The Lakes of neer, and I played all the a whole bunch of lyrics, Station,” featuring your A. “The Green Crow deconstructed it into a Pontchartrain” and “The instruments – guitars, and some of them worked, own compositions. Did Caws” was a very inter- real modal tour-de-force. Jolly Soldier” brought him piano, bass, percussion some of them didn’t, but this “new direction” result esting, enjoyable experi- But I was thrilled that he acclaim and an audience – and then when I felt I I was very pleased to in any backlash, given ence. I was approached liked it. that extended well beyond was ready I brought in have the chance to work your strong ties to the folk/ by Siobhan O’Casey, his Q. So, give us a sense as Ireland. some friends to help out. together. He’s quirky and traditional music scene? daughter, who had a no- to what we might hear at But Brady had many For me, a song isn’t a song modern, quite humorous, A. What I find strange tion of making an album your concert September 12. other musical interests, unless it’s sung to people. but there’s always a depth is when people think it’s of his songs. John Kavana- Might there be some clas- and in the early 1980s he I’m a communicator, a to his writing that’s at- the norm to be interested ugh, the actor, had been in sics like “Arthur McBride” began a whole new career performer, I like standing tracted me. in just one form of music. many of O’Casey’s plays, or “Lakes of Pontchar- as a singer-songwriter, his up on a stage and sharing Q. And, of course, you’re I’ve always fought against so he was a logical choice train” during the set? voice as well-suited to the the things I’ve written. I’m joined on two songs (“The that kind of rigid exclu- to be the vocalist, whether A. I usually work out pop/rock domain as to the not tailoring them to an Cocks Are Crowing,” “Lord sion. It hasn’t been easy singing the songs or recit- my set list on the day of traditional/folk idiom. He audience. Thomas and Fair Ellen- -- the folk scene can be ing O’Casey’s poetry and the concert. I’m a creature went on to release a series Q. You also said previ- der”) by Andy Irvine. The pretty conservative in prose. of emotion and mood, and of successful, well-received ously that you had had two of you were on the road some ways. But when I It was actually a good sometimes I need to be albums, and some of his some concerns about the last year to celebrate the began doing my songs, training ground for me. in the right emotional songs wound up in the future of music recording 40th anniversary of the and working more in pop, There were a lot of differ- space to figure out which repertoires of artists such – you wondered “was there album you put out back rock, and so on, I didn’t ent sounds on the album – songs I’m going to do on as Tina Turner, Dave any point in putting out an in 1977. Did you ever have a backlash from my some folk and traditional, a particular night in a Edmunds, Santana, and album at all.” imagine it would be so fans. I’d been doing a lot some things that sounded particular place. I always Bonnie Raitt. A. Early on, around enduringly popular? of solo shows, and at these like Steeleye Span and try to include something In recent years, Brady when I started writing A. I’m pleasantly I introduced a lot of the Fairport Convention, and from every phase of my has revisited some of this batch of songs, I was amazed at how the al- songs that became part even a bit of honky-tonk. life: Maybe I want to do his folk/trad material, thinking some about the bum has found such a of “Hard Station.” So one It was the first time I’d a traditional song, but notably through reunion whole way the music place in Irish music. It’s of the things that’s now a worked with instruments maybe it’ll be something concerts/tours with Irvine business had changed, a great thrill to see, 40 hallmark of who I am is like cello, sax, viola, and else I haven’t done in and the release of archival and particularly whether years on, how enthusiastic people who go to my shows there was the opportunity years. I feel guilty some- or anthology recordings, the album as we knew it people are about it, and will hear a wide variety to make some contempo- times that some songs I such as “The (Missing) would still exist. That was how they come out to see of music. rary arrangements, so I might’ve closed out my set Liberty Tapes” and “Danc- on my mind. But I’m not Andy and me perform. I’ve Q. You’ve been involved look on the album as a with great aplomb in the er in the Fire.” Last year, concerned so much with thought about why the in a number of collabora- bridging from the tradi- past are ones I don’t sing Brady issued his first stu- it anymore. I make my album’s been so popular, tions and projects over tional to the rock scene. nowadays. That’s just how dio recording since 2010, music, and if people like and while I don’t really the years, of course, and It helped me gain a lot of it is sometimes. “Unfinished Business,” it, they like it and hope- know about other places, perhaps one of the more confidence to put a band For better or worse, I which included tracks fully will listen to it. I’m in Ireland it just really underappreciated ones is together later on. feel my music is never co-written with songwrit- way past the time where seemed to strike a huge “The Green Crow Caws” And it was one of the fashionable – but it’s ers Sharon Vaughn and I’m worried about trying chord. I guess it’s part album from 1980, cel- last recordings Seamus never out of fashion. Ralph Murphy as well as to find an audience. It’s of the soundtrack to that ebrating the works of the Ennis, the great uilleann For more information great writer Sean O’Casey. piper and music collector, about Paul Brady’s Sep- Where do you see that par- ever made. I’d written a tember 12 concert at the ticular venture in terms lament in a kind of orches- City Winery, go to citywin- of your musical develop- tral style that I wanted ery.com/boston. ment? him to play. Instead, he EIRE pub 795 Adams St. • Dorchester “President’s Choice” Serving Lunch & Dinner Every day,

Ímar is at the Somerville Museum on September 28. See summary of Irish/ Celtic events in September, Page 13. 7 days a week Page 12 September 2018 BOSTON IRISH Reporter bostonirish.com CD Reviews with Foley): a straight-ahead approach that puts the traditional melody front and center, with minimal arrangement LP/cassette/CD and solid, steady accompaniment – in this case by album format. By Sean Smith guitarist John Blake. Not that Gurney’s playing is Equally ambi- Dan Gurney, “Ignorance Is Bliss” • A native of simplistic: The crystal-clear quality of the recording tious as Pol- New York’s Mid-Hudson Valley, Gurney is a cross- effectively captures his techniques and craft, whether wart’s “Wind platform app developer, co-founder of the live web- it’s his use of triplets and rolls or deployment of bass Resistance” is broadcasting site Concert Window, and not so inciden- chords, and all delivered in tempos that are crisp but this new release tally, one of the country’s finest traditional Irish accor- leisurely (such as on a pair of jigs, “Blasket Island/ by O’Rourke, dion players. “I like knowing how things work – finding My Wife’s a Wanton Wee Thing,” that he plays solo) – fiddler for the answers,” he writes in the sleeve notes of this album, and measured and patient for the lovely air “Taimse genre-breaking his second solo release. He certainly knows how Irish Im’ Chodlah,” which he learned from the singing of Scottish trio music works, Dolores Keane during a sojourn in Galway. LAU: a musical what with a It’s all quite simply a feel-good affair, listening to interpretation portfolio that Gurney and Blake’s takes on some fine traditional of the collection includes the tunes, like the set of reels “Tim Moloney’s/Molloy’s of short stories that Scottish author James Robertson sadly-seldom- Favorite/The Boy in the Gap,” the latter he credits to penned daily over the course of a year, all of them seen quartet Boston-area flute player Jimmy Noonan (and “one of exactly 365 words long (hence the “365” title). As The Yanks – many memorable nights at J.J.’s Pub in Dorchester”); O’Rourke explains in the liner notes, he intends to though he’s or a pair of jigs “The Woods of Caol Rua/Miss Walsh’s,” compose a piece in response to each story, writing “in partnered reg- the first of which is a John Dwyer composition, the the moment” to capture the pure, unfiltered emotions ularly with his second a tune Gurney learned from one of his great- and impressions he experienced reading them. The fellow Yank, est mentors, Fr. Charlie Coen. 22 tracks, spread across two CDs, are the first cohort fiddler Dylan Throughout the CD’s sleeve notes, Gurney readily of his compositions, with piano and harmonium ac- Foley – and acknowledges the influence and guidance of many companiment by Kit Downes. the company musicians like Noonan and Fr. Coen, and especially On the face of it, this seems very much like a “high- of luminaries Seamus Connolly, who also wrote an introduction concept” album, i.e., one that may challenge the like Dolores for the album’s booklet. Connolly at one point quotes listener to do more than just listen – although that’s Keane, Mick the composer Gustav Mahler, “What is best in music certainly an option. And in fact there are a few ways Conneely, Ronan O’Flaherty and the inimitable is not to be found in the notes,” which neatly sits one could approach “365”: You can read the text of Johnny “Ringo” McDonagh, plus nine medals at vari- alongside Gurney’s aforementioned explanation for each story (provided in the liner notes) while you listen ous Fleadh Cheoil music competitions. the album title. If this is ignorance, let’s make the to its corresponding track; read first, then listen, or Yet as Gurney further explains, with Irish music most of it. [dangurney.net/music] vice-versa; or read and listen at completely separate he doesn’t feel compelled to be a wonk: “When I ana- times. The investment in both activities ultimately lyze Irish music too much, I start having less fun. Aidan O’Rourke, “365: Volume 1” • Last month’s proves worthwhile. Robertson’s stories are diverse The music goes deep as you want to dig, but I have review of Karine Polwart’s “A Pocket of Wind Resis- in style, scope and tone: Some, like “Freedom” and the most fun when I remember ‘Ignorance is bliss.’” tance” noted the persistence of the concept album, even “Jack and the Dog,” take on the form and content of This simple-is-best philosophy is reflected in in the digital music age where playlists of random, fables or folk tales; “Hotel,” “The Hand,” “Bedtime” Gurney’s two albums (as well as his collaboration wide-ranging individual recorded tracks are eclipsing and “Birthday” center on moments of personal revela- tion, and perhaps unsettling clarity; “The Abbot” is gripping in its immediacy, and in the resolve of the titular character as he contemplates the certainty of death – which is the subject, and narrator, for “Death, the Shapeshifter”; “The Last Elephant” is an all-too-realistic and sardonic imagining of global and COME VISIT ANY personal response to an imminent tragedy. Similarly, O’Rourke’s pieces traverse genres, from infusions of folk and traditional styles to classical to jazz to avant-garde. The interplay and rapport be- tween O’Rourke and Downes is often riveting, such as SOMERS PUBS when they swap lead and rhythm on “The Man in the Bus”, or “Death, the Shapeshifter,” where Downes’s austere harmonium invention is subsequently joined LOCATION FOR QUALITY FOOD, by O’Rourke’s rich, lower-voiced bowings. The extent of your investment in “365” may spur you to think about how music and text correspond with or HOSPITALITY & LIVE MUSIC complement one another, and how this compares to a film soundtrack. But the most immediate question may be, can you appreciate a concept album without 7 NIGHTS A WEEK! having to engage the concept? In other words, can you just listen to “365” for the sake of listening to it? Sure. This album is overall a subdued and spare work, and you can get lost at times among its pensive, brooding passages, but then suddenly find yourself drawn to an intricate duet, a sudden flourish from fiddle or keyboard. So go forth into “365: Volume 1,” and consider what might await you in “Volume 2.” [www.aidanorourke.net] Marshall Paving & Masonry 77 Broad St. 11 Marshall St. Boston, MA 02109 Boston, MA 02108 Specialists in asphalt paving 25 Union St. 617.338.5656 617.367.0055 Concrete Repair • Driveways Boston, MA 02108 mrdooleys.com greendragonboston.com 617.742.2121 Retaining Walls • Walkways hennessysboston.com • Chimney Repair 617-858-9245 marshallpavingandmasonry.com Find us on Facebook No job too big or small!

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www.Gormleyfuneral.com bostonirish.com September 2018 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 13 THE BIR’S SEPTEMBER CALENDAR Money and Children: OF IRISH/CELTIC MUSIC EVENTS Teaching by The first month of fall in Greater Boston and vicin- ern vibe often enhanced by rock and jazz stylings. Their ity will see performances by popular Irish/Celtic acts song repertoire spans Irish/Celtic and Americana, from like Altan, The High Kings, and Celtic Thunder, and “Wayfaring Stranger” to Rhiannon Giddens’ “Julie” Age Groups a farewell Boston appearance by masterful Irish singer and Dick Gaughan’s “Sail On.” Sean Tyrrell. A 4 p.m. matinee show on Sept. 16 will feature Presented by Brian W. O’Sullivan, CFP, ChFC, CLU • One of the premier bands produced by the late- French-Canadian trio Genticorum (Pacal Gemme, 20th-century Irish traditional music revival, Altan fiddle, foot percussion, vocals; Yann Falquet, guitar, According to the Council for Economic Education will come to the Irish Cultural Centre of New Eng- accordion, jaw harp, vocals; Nicholas Williams, flute, (CEE), which promotes economic and financial land in Canton on Sept. 14 at 8 p.m. Altan’s recently accordion, keyboards, vocals). Thoroughly grounded in education in the classroom, students who have released album, “The Gap of Dreams,” is a paean to the Quebecois tradition, the band interpolates elements taken a class in personal finance are more likely to the group’s birthplace of Donegal and celebrates the of North American and European folk cultures, making engage in financially responsible behaviors such as indispensability of music, songs, dance, and stories to for a rich, intricate sound that reveals the beauty as saving, budgeting and investing.1 past generations coping with the demands of rural life, well as the drive of French-Canadian music. This year, Parents can insulate their kids from some of the as well as famine, conflict and emigration. Co-founder Genticorum released its sixth album, “Avant L’orage.” biggest money management mistakes and build Mairéad Ní Mhaonaigh is a principal exponent of the The opening act will be the Massachusetts fiddle-cello their financial literacy by talking openly about the Donegal fiddle style and a singer in both Gaelic and duo of siblings Elizabeth and Ben Anderson, who value of money and the benefits of good financial English; she’s joined by Ciarán Curran (bouzouki), bring forth both the intensity and grace in Scottish decision making. Dáithí Sproule (guitar), Mark Kelly (guitar) and Martin and Cape Breton music, mixing traditional styles and To yield the biggest impact on kids’ money Tourish (accordion). Altan has toured around the world modern ideas. The Andersons have appeared locally at while collaborating with notables ranging from Dolly The Burren (where they opened for another legendary habits, however, the lessons imparted must be age- Parton to The Chieftains to Enya. Scottish group, the Battlefield Band), BCMFest, notloB appropriate. The ICCNE also will host two other special music Concerts, and the Club Passim Campfire Festival, and Elementary School: events this month. On Sept. 9, another Donegal musi- made their international debut in 2016 with shows in Saving by Example cian, Doimnic Mac Giolla Bhríde, will give a concert Scotland and France. Younger kids, for example, at 3:30 p.m. An accordionist and uilleann piper, Mac Còig, a quartet from Cape Breton, will take the Back- may not be ready for a lesson Giolla Bhríde has been hailed for his understanding room stage on Sept. 26 at 7:30 p.m. Darren McMullen on compounded savings and expression of the Donegal sean-nós tradition; he (guitar, mandolin, banjo, bouzouki, whistles, vocals), growth, but they can benefit is a past winner of the Corn Uí Riada, the Oireachtas Rachel Davis (fiddle, vocals), Chrissy Crowley (fiddle) greatly by watching their sean-nós singing competition. He also founded the and Jason Roach (piano) banded together a few years parents model good financial sean-nós choir Cór Thaobh a Leithid, which has col- ago to do a promotional tour for Cape Breton’s Celtic behavior. laborated with legendary Irish musician Donal Lunny Colours International Festival, and subsequently de- At this age, it’s important, on a couple of projects. He’ll be accompanied by flute cided to play as an ensemble as their schedules permit. too, to demonstrate the value and tin whistle player Frances Morton, a Glasgow The Cape Breton tradition, with plenty of marches, of money and sound money management. native who won an All-Ireland junior championship on strathspeys and reels, is well-represented in Còig’s That’s best done by giving them a dollar to flute and has toured with the bands Kick and Tannas. repertoire, but the band also incorporates Irish and purchase something at the mall, a yard sale, or at A Boston institution, The Joshua Tree, will make Scottish, and even a touch of French-Canadian music. the movies. Let them see what they can get for a one of its regular visits to the center on Sept. 15 at 8 Their most recent album, “Rove,” has received several p.m. The band has developed a national reputation in awards and nominations for music honors. buck. evoking the magic and majesty of U2, and prides itself For links to tickets and information for all Burren Elementary school kids can also begin to set on reproducing the legendary Irish rockers’ distinct Backroom shows, go to burren.com/EventsCalendar. financial goals. sound — covering the very early years up to the pres- html. When they receive birthday money from Grandma, ent — while maintaining artistic integrity. Còig also will play a concert on Sept. 23 at 7 p.m. in or an allowance, encourage them to save the cash For information on these events, see irishculture.org. the Shalin Liu Performance Center in Rockport. Go to for something bigger they really want. • Internationally renowned ballad group The High rockportmusic.org/coig for tickets. Show them how to compare prices at the grocery Kings is at the Somerville Theatre on Sept. 13 at 7:30 • An intriguing newcomer to the Greater Boston folk store and explain how different brands cost more p.m. Now into its second decade, the group – vocalists/ music scene, Night Tree, will appear at the me&thee for the same product. musicians Finbarr Clancy, Brian Dunphy, Martin coffeehouse in Marblehead on Sept. 7 at 8 p.m. This Middle School and Money Management Furey and Darren Holden – started out with a sound sextet of New England Conservatory musicians (Lily As your children mature, you can start letting deriving from the classic Irish ballad style of the 1950s Honigberg, violin; Chris Overholser, violin, viola, and them experiment with the money they earn through and ’60s that also showed the influence of pop, rock, mandolin; Zach Mayer, saxophones, vocals; Sunniva babysitting, shoveling snow or an allowance. and country styles. Their recent work has incorporated Brynnel, accordion, vocals; McKinley James, cello; Help them set up three accounts – one for their more original material, and even a cover of Thin Lizzy’s Julian Loida, percussion) pulls together Irish/Celtic savings, one for spending money, and one (if you “The Boys Are Back in Town.” and Scandinavian music with classical, jazz, klezmer choose) for charity. And explain how interest works. For details about the show, which is presented by and Afro-Cuban influences, playing in ensemble style World Music/CRASHarts, go to thehighkings.com/ while also leaving room for individual improvisation. These are the years to help children establish tour-dates. They’ve performed locally at The Burren Backroom, good saving and spending habits, and help them • One of New England’s most exciting new groups, the Amazing Things Art Center in Framingham and manage impulse-buying control. Daymark, will hold an EP album release concert at Cambridge’s Galley 263, and have just released their To help close the knowledge gap, continue to Club Passim in Harvard Square on September 25 at 8 second album, produced by Seamus Egan. Singer- build financial literacy, and reinforce the lessons p.m. The trio of Will Woodson (flute, border pipes), Dan songwriter Nora Tirrell will open. More details at learned at home, look for activities or public events Foster (fiddle), and Boston-area native Eric McDonald meandthee.org. than help build money awareness. (guitar, mandolin, vocals) plays with an approach sug- • The Gore House Carriage House Concert Series in High School Kids: Debt Awareness gestive of different settings and eras of traditional Irish Waltham will feature fiddler-vocalist-songwriter Em- High school and college-age kids are ready for music, whether the early 20th-century Irish-American erald Rae on Sept. 11 at 7:30 p.m. A Gloucester native, more sophisticated lessons in money management. dance halls, the “lonesome tone” of Donegal-style fid- Rae has been active in the Boston folk/traditional music That includes debt. Many of the best and brightest dling, or the immigrant communities in the north of scene since her teens, as a soloist and award-winning graduates get themselves in financial hot water England – all delivered with power and exhilaration. fiddler immersed in the Scottish and Cape Breton by spending money they don’t have and burying See passim.org for ticket information and other styles and in various collaborations, including as part themselves in high interest credit card debt. details. of the “alt-trad” band Annalivia. In recent years, she You can save your kids from a similar fate by • Another busy month for The Burren Backroom has turned her attention to American folk music and explaining how interest rates work, and how those series, highlighted by a show on Sept. 30 at 4 p.m. songwriting, releasing an album of her own material $300 designer sneakers cost much more if you pay from celebrated singer-songwriter Sean Tyrrell, who (“If Only I Could Fly”) in 2013. Her newest album, is making his last tour of the US. A native of Galway, released this past spring, continues her exploration of with credit and make only the minimum monthly Tyrrell draws on songs from tradition and his own the links between traditional and contemporary song payments. creation – and sometimes from unexpected sources, forms, driven by her vocal-fiddle synergy. By paying $30 per month on a credit card that like John Lennon’s “Working Class Heroes” or Cajun For details and links to ticket information for the charges 18 percent interest, for example, that or blues – along with poetry and other forms of liter- series, see goreplace.org/programs/concerts-music. $300 would take 11 months to pay off and cost an ary expression to present stories of heroes renowned • Music for Billie, a non-profit named after late Bos- additional $27 in interest. or obscure, figures tragic or comic, and explorations of ton-area folk music event organizer Billie Hockett, will Now is also the time to impress upon young adults time and history. One of his most acclaimed projects host a concert by Ímar, a Scottish-based quintet that the benefits of good financial choices – and the cost is “A Message of Peace,” which recalls the life of John plays Irish music, on Sept. 28 at 7 p.m. in the Somerville of poor decision making. Boyle O’Reilly (1844-90), who escaped from penal Museum. Its members (Tomás Callister, fiddle; Adam Banks and other lenders rely on credit scores, servitude in Australia to settle in Boston and became Rhodes, bouzouki; Mohsen Amini, concertina; Adam a number that reflects your debt-to-income ratio one of America’s most influential Irishmen. Brown, bodhran; Ryan Murphy, uilleann pipes, flute, and repayment history, to determine whether to The Backroom schedule for the month begins on Sept. whistle) have had extensive experience that includes issue borrowers a credit card or loans for a car or 5 at 7:30 p.m. with The Outside Track, a pan-Celtic some of the most exciting and inventive bands in Celtic home mortgage. They also use it to determine what band with Irish, Scottish and Cape Breton influences. music today, such as RURA, Cara and Talisk, and quite interest rate they should charge. Co-founders Allie Robertson (harp) and Fiona Black a few individual honors in Irish music competitions, By making payments on time and keeping your (accordion) from Scotland are at the heart of the band, giving their sound a solid traditional core. For ticket along with Cape Breton fiddler, vocalist and step dancer information and other details, see musicforbillie.org. debt to a minimum, consumers are far more likely Mairi Rankin, lead vocalist and flute and whistle player • Celtic Thunder comes to Boston’s Shubert The- to qualify for the most favorable, lowest interest Teresa Horgan of Cork and their newest colleague, atre Boch Centre on Sept. 28 as part of its milestone loans. Scottish-born guitarist Michael Ferrie. 10th-anniversary “X” tour. The famed Irish vocal Finally, there’s nothing like a lesson in compounded Opening for The Outside Track will be the Bach super-group and stage show of the same name has be- growth to motivate your adult children to save for Project, a group of local cellists – led by McKinley come a worldwide sensation through its blend of Irish/ their future. James, Benjamin Fryxell, and Ariel Friedman – that Celtic folk songs and contemporary, pop-rock covers, Teaching kids to save is merely aimed at giving adapts the old traditions of music for new venues for as well as highly choreographed staging and visuals. them the tools to become smart consumers, use classical music. Their performance will focus on three The “Celtic Thunder X” show (available on CD and debt wisely and put money away for their future. of the Bach Suites. DVD) continues the format , with the current line-up Connla, a quintet from Northern Ireland that has of Damian McGinty, Michael O’Dwyer, Emmet Cahill, Brian W. O’Sullivan is a registered representative been almost universally tagged as “the hottest band” in Ryan Kelly, and Neil Byrne performing classic Irish of and offers securities, investment advisory and Irish/Celtic circles – boosted by their recently released material like “Phil the Fluter’s Ball,” “Wild Rover” financial planning services through MML Investors second album “The Next Chapter” – will be at the and “Toora Loora Lay” and well-known contemporary Services, LLC, Member SIPC (www.sipc.org). Su- Backroom on Sept. 9 at 4:30 p.m. Ciaran Carlin (flute, songs such as “The Devil Went Down to Georgia,” “On pervisory Address: 101 Federal Street, Suite 800, whistle), Conor Mallon (uilleann pipes, whistle), Emer the Street Where You Live,” “Streets of London” and Boston, MA 02110. He may be reached at 617-479- Mallon (harp, piano) Paul Starrett (guitars, bass) and “Galway Girl.” 0075 x331 or [email protected]. Ciara McCafferty (bodhran) are outstanding musicians For tickets, go to bochcenter.org/celticthunder. and also inventive composers: While certainly “in the Compiled by Sean Smith. [email protected] tradition,” Connla’s tunes have an unmistakable mod- www.commonwealthfinancialgroup.com Page 14 September 2018 BOSTON IRISH Reporter bostonirish.com Pope laments Ireland’s ‘open wound’ (Continued from page 1) have lived 30, 40, 50, 60 trip to Ireland was not Riverdance performers for “fallen women.’’ One years in fear,’’ another only going to be about and tenor Andrea Boccelli. forced adoptee, Clodagh adoptee, Paul Redmond, the family.’’ But he said An archbishop Malone, said Francis was told the Associated Press. family life would still be assails the pope “shocked’’ at what they “That would mean a lot to the focus, even if Francis The abuse scandal has told him and “he listened them.’’ would be meeting with devastated the church’s to each and every one of Ahead of the visit, a abuse victims during his r e p u t a t i o n i n I r e - us with respect and com- “Say Nope to the Pope’’ 36-hour visit. land since the 1990s and passion.’’ campaign had attracted Francis’ first day was has exploded anew in the The survivors asked a strong following and dominated by the abuse US. Francis to speak out peaceful protests were scandal and Ireland’s The US scandal took Sunday to let all the planned for his visting fraught history of atroci- on a new twist while the mothers know that they time. Posters were put up ties committed in the pope was in Ireland, with did nothing wrong and around Dublin featuring name of purifying the a former Vatican ambas- that it wasn’t a sin – as an upside-down Holy See Catholic faith. He received sador to the US penning church officials have told flag to “depict the lifelong a lukewarm reception a letter accusing Vatican them – to try to find their suffering and anguish on the streets, but tens officials of knowing about children later in life. “That that clerical sexual abuse of thousands of people the sexual escapades of is a big step forward for has left.’’ thronged Dublin’s Croke ex-Cardinal Theodore a lot of elderly women, Vatican spokesman Park Stadium on Sat- McCarrick since 2000, particularly in the coun- Greg Burke said Francis urday night for a family but making him a cardi- tryside in Ireland, who knows well that “any rally featuring the famous nal anyway. The letter attributed to Archbishop Carlo Maria Vigano was published Sunday by two conservative Catholic Above Pope Francis listens to a journalist’s ques- outlets. tion during a press conference on the plane back Francis accepted Mc- to Rome after his two-day visit to Ireland. Below: a Carrick’s resignation as sample of the protests that greeted the pope when cardinal last month after he arrived on the island. AP Photos a US church investigation determined an accusa- tion he molested a minor was “credible.’’ But in the letter, Vigano alleged Geraghty that McCarrick had been initially sanctioned by the Vatican in 2009 or 2010 ASSOCIATES but that Francis rehabili- tated him in 2013 despite being informed of McCar- PROPERTY MANAGERS rick’s penchant to invite young seminarians into his bed. Vigano urged the Studio and 1-Bedroom Apartments pope to resign his office. The pope had no comment Available in the desirable in return, telling journal- ists covering his trip to re- Cedar Grove section of Dorchester. port the story themselves Francis sought to re- outcry over sex abuse and I a professional manner. spond to the international cover-up scandal during a speech on Saturday to Studios reasonably Irish government authori- JOHN C. 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Harry Brett • Margaret Brett Hastings The official photographers of the Boston Irish Reporter bostonirish.com September 2018 BOSTON IRISH Reporter Page 15 Traveling People The Titanic Experience in Belfast is a ‘Must-See’ attraction By Judy Enright Special to the BIR Is there anyone on earth who hasn’t heard about the Titanic hitting an iceberg on its maiden voyage in 1912 with the result- ing loss of more than 1,500 lives? If so, the uninformed must be living in the back of beyond! It would be nearly impossible to miss hearing something about the ill-fated liner after all the books – reportedly more than 500 – films, and TV exposure since that long-ago mid-April night and early morning in the Atlantic. TITANIC EXPERIENCE A friend and I visited Belfast this spring to see what is report- edly the world’s largest Titanic exhibit and Ireland’s most popu- lar tourist attraction. I believe that both are true. The four-level Titanic Experience is located in an enormous building on the River Lagan and was designed to resemble a ship’s prow and reflect Belfast’s shipbuilding history. The fascinating, de- tailed exhibit weaves the liner’s The Titanic Experience presentation in Belfast is housed in a building designed to resemble a ship’s prow. Below, an image story into the history of Belfast in the exhibit imagining the sinking of the majestic liner. Judy Enright photos and environs, and highlights assorted local industries and residents. By 1900, the Harland and Wolff shipyard where Titanic was built was the largest in the world, covering some 80 acres and employing about 10,000 workers. We learned that the original name for the shipyard was Queen’s Island Shipbuild- ing, but in 1888 that was changed to Harland and Wolff Ltd. And we learned that after the Great Famine of the 1840s, the rural economy declined be- cause people flocked to Belfast to find work in the linen mills, docks, shipyards and other in- dustries that employed many workers. Between 1851 and 1901, Belfast’s population grew from 87,062 to 349,180. I’ve been to many tourist attractions in Ireland over the years and had been to Belfast before, but I was beyond excited to see the Titanic Experience. I simply could not wait! Belfast is booming again as it did at the beginning of the 20th Century as evidenced by the 2.26-million room nights that were sold last year! New hotels, catering to the luxury as well as to the price- conscious market, are popping up in and around the city. We booked a 1 o’clock reserva- We learned a lot that day. artifacts are kept in undisclosed that this year 27 of the top 100 com for more. tion online for the Titanic Expe- Did you know, for instance, that locations with about 1,500 on top-rated hotels in the world • Dublin Fringe Festival is rience and, because I had earlier more than 3-million rivets were display in shows in Las Vegas, were in Asia. Sept. 8 to 23 - day and night met a woman from Belfast who used to build the ship? There is Orlando, and Flint, MI, as well Readers choose hotels based - with 80 shows in 26 venues. recommended the recently much to see and learn at this as in Hungary and China. on facilities, location, service, There will be circus, club com- opened 119-room Titanic Hotel attraction. THE OPEN food and overall value. edy, dance, gigs, cabaret, live art next to the exhibit, we stopped Parking, food, and an ATM are CHAMPIONSHIP OYSTERS performance, music and party. there first. We were ushered all available on site and there is The 147th British Open Car- Have to admit I never met an See fringefest.com for details. for lunch into an enormous and also an excellent shop where you noustie was held this year in oyster I didn’t like, so I was de- • Dublin Theatre Festival, bright room – Drawing Office can purchase Titanic souvenirs. Scotland, but next year’s event is lighted to see that Connemara Europe’s longest-running the- Two – where Harland and Wolff For future visitors, my friend scheduled for the Royal Portrush Oysters LTD offers oyster farm atre spectacle, runs from Sept. designers once worked to create and I agreed, the best bet would course in Northern Ireland. This tours that take about an hour 27 to Oct. 14 with international massive vessels like Titanic. be to stay overnight locally so will be only the second time in and are suitable for all includ- productions, Irish work, theatre Because we had a reserva- you can arrive at the building the Open’s 150-year history that ing children over six. for children, as well as critical tion for the exhibit, we chose when it first opens, miss the the event will be staged outside David Keane, director, said talks and artist development lunches that should not take midday crowds ,and have time Scotland or England. More than the tours continue to run in the programs. much time to prepare. Over an to see and read everything – and 175,000 attended this year’s autumn and cater for groups as • The Portrush International hour later, lunch arrived, appar- there’s a lot to see. By mid-after- event and set a record for an well as private parties. There Air Show with aerial displays, ently delayed thanks to a large noon on the day we were there, Open course. are also scheduled tours at the entertainment, a food village, group in an adjoining conference the building was jam-packed. North and West Coast Links is weekends. Extended tours – arts and crafts market and more room that was catered to first. We also booked tickets online currently putting together golf with walks on the seashore to will be Sept. 1 and 2. For details, It was a small glitch and we before going and recommend do- packages specifically tailored the oyster beds -are available visit: airwavesportrush.co.uk couldn’t have chosen a lovelier ing that to avoid crowds. for the 2019 Open Champi- during spring tides. • The Gourmet Greenway’s place to wait. I did have to run For more information, visit onship. Visit 2019portrush. For more information, visit last event for 2018 – “It’s all across the plaza to reschedule titanicbelfast.com. theopen.com for details and also dkconnemaraoysters.com. about the Mayo Lamb” - is Sept. our reservation but the Titanic TITANIC RELICS northandwestcoastlinks.com. FESTIVALS 10-16 at An Port Mor restaurant Experience staff was accom- We read recently that Premier WORLD’S BEST There’s nothing like a good in Westport, Co. Mayo. See an- modating and, thankfully, there Exhibitions, an Atlanta-based According to Travel and Lei- festival and autumn is an es- portmor.com for details. was no problem. company that retrieved some sure magazine’s readers, Bal- pecially good time to attend • Speaking of oysters, the The Titanic Experience is 5,500 artifacts from the wreck lyfin Demesne in Co. Laois took one because it’s the shoulder world-famous Galway Inter- detailed, fascinating, extremely of the Titanic, has filed for bank- top honors in the World’s Best season and things are a bit national Oyster & Seafood well done and definitely worth ruptcy and offered to sell some castle resort category. quieter across the countryside. Festival is Sept. 28 to 30. See making a special trip to Belfast of the merchandise to pay debts. Other Irish properties and • A Taste of West Cork will be galwayoysterfestival.com or to see. We both really enjoyed Also for sale are rights to salvage their rankings: Sheen Falls, Co. held Sept. 7-to-16 to celebrate galwaytourism.ie for more. the entire exhibit. I especially more relics from the wreck. The Kerry, No. 3; Ashford Castle, the bounty and beauty of this Enjoy Ireland whenever and liked standing on the clear, remains of the RMS Titanic Co. Mayo, No. 5; Ballynahinch, stretch of the Wild Atlantic Way. wherever you go, and especially glass-paneled floor at the end were found about two-and-a- Co. Galway, No. 8; Dromoland There will be something offered enjoy the cooler temperatures of and looking down to see the half miles under the surface of Castle, Co. Clare, No. 9, and for every palate and many of the the autumn. Titanic as it appears today the North Atlantic Ocean 73 Aghadoe Heights Hotel and events are free or have minimum seeming to pass underneath. years after it sank. Most of the Spa, No. 10. It’s interesting charges. See atasteofwestcork. Page 16 September 2018 BOSTON IRISH Reporter bostonirish.com Upcoming Programs at the Irish Cultural Centre

CLASSES OFFERED AT THE ICC MUSIC: Fiddle, Accordion, Tin Whistle & Bodhran IRISH LANGUAGE: All levels available, for adults. IRISH HISTORY: 4 week courses “The 1916 Rebellion” SET DANCING: Every Monday night at 7 p.m. and Virtual Historic Tour of Kilkenny and Carlow. For more information visit our website at: www.irishcultural.org Irish Cultural Centre, 200 New Boston Drive, Canton, MA 781-821-8291

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