December 2016 ianohio.com

Merry Christmas, from Guardian Angel Sully of Sullys Irish Pub, & All Your Friends at Ohio Irish American News 2 IAN Ohio “We’ve Always Been Green!” www.ianohio.com December 2016

Editor’s Corner enced, with each new master. It is Music Week, where we also held us, with a smile, a ride, advice or DNA of those that came before. probably more accurate to now call our annual conference. direction. Diamonds are the modern day Irish music, World Music. The Truro community has ad- A small-town feel, with great symbol to mark the 10th Anniver- I had the great opportunity to opted the event, and hopes to community support apparent at sary. How fitting. spend a few days in Nova Scotia make Truro the permanent home. every window sign, and bartender I don’t know how many issues for the Nova Scotia Music Week At every turn, a board member welcome, marked our week. Fes- are to come, but I can’t believe how 2016, held this year in Truro, about or volunteer (perhaps both) met tival organizers traded best prac- many have already left the station, forty-five minutes from Halifax. us, drove us, escorted us, guided tices, best experiences and the flip made stops in the valleys and More than forty Nova Scotia based side of the coin, covering mountains, and whistled away. It music performers played before many burning questions is a challenge and a joy to create it, John O’Brien, Jr. local and international fans. The inherent to most festival to reveal it, to hear feedback, much One of the reasons Irish music Association of Irish and Celtic organizers. Then we had more civil than the scorched earth is so beloved the world over is the Festivals, of which I am a member, a nightly showcase. of our just ended election cycle. fact that it never rests; it continues also sent representatives from The music, as always, The 45th President of the United to evolve, on its past and soon to more than forty U.S based Irish ruled the day(s), which States has been elected. Whether be past, to influence and be influ- and Celtic festivals to Nova Scotia blended into night, you were with him, or with her, the which often blended into election is now complete. a new day. Within you We don’t usually pick our CEO, will find a few pictures but then we adapt to the new from the event, and in leader, and either further our ca- July, you will find a few reers upward or resist and fight, of the Nova Scotia Music and watch our development, our Week bands, at the 35th place in our world, regress. At this Annual Cleveland Irish point, who we voted for no longer Fest, too. For more pics matters. What we do with it, how from Music Nova Scotia we choose to handle it, is entirely Week and other events up to us. going on in and around Moaning feels good sometimes. Ohio, check our Face- Booing feels good sometimes. The book page. now infamous, “Don’t Boo, Vote”, Time can often seem seemed to resonate for far too like a runaway train. few. Posting on Facebook is not This is the last issue of engagement. The discussion that 2016, and of our 10th can, tho rarely does, seem to take year of the Ohio Irish place there, is not an action that American News; 120 is- generates results. sues that are traced by Since the day the American our past, and prepared Revolution ended, there has never, us for the future, often ever been a violent protest in directed by, or revealing, America that generated any of the the diamonds and the results the protestors professed to be asking for. Doing the same thing over and over and expecting a different result, is the very defini- tion of insanity. Will you continue to boo, and not vote? To take no action, then, at the next presidential (or local) election, wonder why things are A full service law firm providing still so hurtful, stagnant, mind- quality representation throughout Northeast Ohio lessly, insane? Go dtí an mhí seo chugainn, slán a fhágáil (Until next month, goodbye) Patrick T. Murphy, Esq. John

“Follow me where I go, www.dworkenlaw.com what I do and who I know; O’Bent Enterprises includes: 60 South Park Place 950 Illuminating Bldg. www.twitter.com/jobjr Painesville, OH 44077 55 Public Square www.facebook.com/ OhioIrishAmericanNews Cleveland, OH 44113 (440) 352-3391 www.linkedin.com/in/ (440) 946-7656 (216) 861-4211 jobjr/ http://songsandsto- (440) 352-3469 (fax) (216) 861-1403 (fax) ries.net/myblog/feed/

4 IAN Ohio “We’ve Always Been Green!” www.ianohio.com December 2016 December 2016 “We’ve Always Been Green!” www.ianohio.com 5

by the New Barleycorn) was our house beforehand. We sat at the John conversation about memories of the place due to the energy these two Carroll table (we are both proud alums – we called home for four years. It was a night performances gave to Ball Class of 1981 and 2014, respectively), which of endless laughter and fun, and the two of attendees. I am not the best provided us the opportunity to share in us are already looking forward to next year. dancer, I will be the first to admit that, but I busted out some serious moves on the What an exciting time it is to be living in night of October 15th. I swung the skirt Cleveland! The Indians just wrapped up of my dress around, pumping my unused a wildly successful season that ended in a hand in the air and laughing as I tried to si- thrilling seventh World Series game, incred- multaneously kick my feet forward in front ible plays are coming through our theatre of me. I spent the night spinning around the district (another run of the Christmas story floor with Ohio Rose Centre friends, singing is in session throughout the month), and the along (loudly and off-key) to whatever song Mayo Society of Cleveland hosted another was playing at the time. It is a memory I will cherish for years to come. What was so special about this evening, though, is that I got to share it with my dad. His side of the family is where my Irish heritage comes from, so I knew he would enjoy the evening. And enjoy the evening, he did. We took goofy, Prom-like photos at Gaelic Imports 5633 Pearl Rd. Parma, OH 44129 440-845-0100 fabulous Ball on the night of October 15. fax 440-845-0102 This year, the Mayo Society honored Paul 800-450-2725 Dolan, the Chairman/CEO of the Cleveland Indians, as their Person of the Year. Rep- 
 

  resentatives from County Mayo – County Irish Sausage, Irish Bacon, Soda Bread, Council Chief Executive Peter Hynes and Black Pudding, Sausage Rolls, Pork Achill GAA player Liam Gallagher just to Bangers, Potato Scones, Imported name two – spoke, making remarks about Groceries, Flags, Buttons, Jewelry, the exchanges our communities have made Music and much more! with each other, and how those exchanges www.gaelicimports.com are improving quality of life for members of our global Irish Diaspora. The Mayo Society of Greater Cleveland’s mission statement is “to promote cultural, charitable, scientific and/or literary ex- changes between the People of the United States and the People of Ireland, with par- ticular emphasis on County Mayo, including but not limited to research into the life and times of Irish immigration to America and the study of Irish and Irish-American his- tory,” so to hear about how these exchanges are happening in real-time was equal parts engaging and moving. I am still referring back to the Ball’s program thinking about these speeches, using them as motivation for my school work, my interactions with my peers, and the time I spend with my family. After the speeches, it was time for the entertainment portion of the evening. Danc- ers from Murphy Irish Arts performed a set of impressive dances, and our own Ohio Rose Kathleen O’Donnell performed a hoop routine just like the one that wowed the crowd at Rose Selection Nights in both Ohio and Tralee. I’d like to think what happened next (some serious dancing set to music provided 6 IAN Ohio “We’ve Always Been Green!” www.ianohio.com December 2016

On This Day in Irish History About Our Cover December 2016 Sully’s Irish Pub Fear an tí (Man of the House) John (Sully) Sullivan, the Irish communities Guardian Angel and great friend. 6 December 1921 -Eighteen ‘Articles of Agreement for a treaty between Great Britain and Ireland’- the Anglo-Irish Treaty - is signed. 11 December 1225 -Lawrence O’Toole DECEMBER 2016 Vol. 10 Issue 12 is canonized by Honorius III. It will be Publishers 750 years before another Irish person is John O’Brien Jr. / Cliff Carlson canonized. Editor John O’Brien Jr. 13 December 1955 -Grace Gifford Website and layout Plunkett, Irish patriot, dies. She famously Cathy Curry Carlson married Joseph Plunkett hours before Columnists his execution in 1916 for his part in the Behind the Hedge- John O’Brien, Jr. Easter Rising. Blowin’ In- Susan Mangan 17 December 1834 -The first railway Cleveland Irish- Francis McGarry in Ireland is opened from Dublin to Crossword Puzzle- Linda Fulton Burke Don’t Forget Us-Lisa O’Rourke Kingstown (Dun Laoghaire), covering a Growing up Irish- Maureen Ginley distance of six miles. Illuminations- J. Michael Finn 18 December 1871 -The first ever rugby Inner View- John O’Brien Jr international is held in Ireland. The North Ire. Past & Present- Niamh O’Sullivan is defeated by the West of Scotland. Letter From Ireland - Cathal Liam 19 December 1973 -The Supreme Court Livin’ With Lardie- Richard Lardie in Dublin rules that a ban on contracep- Madigan Muses … Marilyn Madigan tives is unconstitutional. The ban had Off Shelf/On This Day-Terry Kenneally been in place since 1935. Our Sports Man- David McDonnell: 22 December 1989 -Death of Samuel Out of the Mailbag- John O’Brien, Jr. Beckett, playwright and winner of the Terry From Derry- Terry Boyle Toledo Irish - Maury Collins Nobel Prize for Literature. 27 December 1904 -The original Ab- IAN Ohio Inc. is published monthly (12 bey Theatre in Dublin opens with Yeats’ issues a year) on the first day of each Baile’s Strand and Spreading the News month. Subscription is by first class by Lady Gregory. mail. 1 year $30, 2 years at $55 3 years 29 December 1937 - Constitution of Ire- $80. To subscribe go online at www. land comes into effect, drafted by Eamon ianohio.com, or Email us at subs@ de Valera. ianohio.com, or call us at 708-445-0700 or mail to address below. IAN Ohio is available for free at over West Side Irish American 240 locations throughout Ohio. For information on the locations go to www. ianohio.com and click on the Ohio Club Distribution button. Upcoming Events: Contact: IAN Ohio Inc. Live Music & Food in The Pub every Friday PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW PHONE Congratulations to Bob & Cliff & Cathy NUMBER: 216.647.1144 Dec 6 Andy Cooney Dinner/Concert & David & Francis & Lisa & Linda & e-mail: mailto:[email protected] Maury & Marilyn & Maureen & Michael or mail to: IAN OHIO INC Dec 11 Kid’s Christmas Party & Susan & Terry & Terry and Me, on our PO Box 7, Zion IL 60099 10th Anniversary! We will have a mighty 847-872-0700 Dec 24 & 25 closed party in January to celebrate, and we e-mail: [email protected] invite each and every reader, to join us! Congrats to the Columbus Gaelic Foot- Subscriptions: [email protected] Dec 31 Club “New Year’s Eve Party” On the Internet www.ianohio.com ball Club for being awarded CLUB OF www.facebook.com/OhioIrishAmerican- Ceili Dance Lessons every Thursday THE YEAR by the United States Gaelic News www.twitter.com/jobjr Athletic Association (USGAA)! PUBLISHERS STATEMENT except meeting night, 7-9pm Congratulations to Speak Irish Cleve- The opinions and statements ex- land, beginning their 5th Irish language pressed in this newspaper are entirely General Meeting 3rd Thursday of every month. class on January 17th, Every Tuesday for those of the authors, and do not reflect 10 weeks @PjMcIntyre’s basement party in any way the opinions of IAN Ohio. Since 1931 room. If you would like to join us, all Circulation: 7,500-For a list of distribu- 8559 Jennings Road Olmsted, Twp, Ohio 44138 levels are welcome; contact tion points, go to www.ianohio.com and 440.235.5868 www.wsia-club.org John [email protected]. click on the word “Distribution.” December 2016 “We’ve Always Been Green!” www.ianohio.com 7

Youngest Franklin County Recorder The 175th and the main Elected Cleveland St. source of On Tuesday, November 8th 2016 Patrick’s Day funding for Danny O’Connor defeated Daphne the 5th oldest Parade Pins parade in Hawk 57 are now on sale. percent to 43 percent to become the America. Only Stamped with $10. Contact next Franklin County Recorder. At 30 2017 and a 175th years of John O’Brien, Jr. numeration, the pins @ 216.647.1144. age, Danny O’Connor becomes the are an annual tradition, youngest elected official in Franklin County history. O’Connor, a lawyer, ran on the need to have progressive new vision for Thank You the Recorder’s office which had pre- viously been marked with dysfunction. for advertising in Although the office primarily deals with the recording and safeguarding administers veteran identification The Ohio Irish AmericanNews. of real cards. Along with the community state documents, O’Connor plans outreach, O’Connor will increase the I am patronizing your to expand community outreach. Spe- efficiency in which documents are cifically, he plans to increase the access logged and accessible to the public. business because of it! veterans have to mental health and Deeds, mortgages, plats, living wills, legal resources as well as job fair op- and titles make up the bulk of docu- Please Cut Out and present it the next time portunities. Currently, the office only ments the Recorder’s office holds. you patronize one of our advertisers 8 IAN Ohio “We’ve Always Been Green!” www.ianohio.com December 2016

A Green Tie Eamon McCrystal: A Passion for Music & Affair to Remember the Luck of the Irish Working in His Favo Every year they assemble in the halls By Cliff Carlson of the Cincinnati Irish Center, not for a Eamonn McCrystal, is a singer broad- was going to record my songs, so I did, romantic fling, as in the movie, but to caster producer and entrepreneur whose he exclaimed!” celebrate the anniversary of its founding, hard work and luck have landed him Working for the BBC, he formed a stu- a home away from home for the Irish in a three week whirlwind tour of venues dent radio station in college to help the America, and a place to awaken the Irish across America to perform with Chloe BBC ‘grow their own talent’ as McCrystal within us 2nd generation and beyond Agnew of Celtic Woman fame from De- puts it. It’s been very successful and has cember 3 through the 20th. If you live in won many student radio awards. Five Los Angeles, Scottsdale, Arizona, Santa presenters who worked with Eamonn Fe New Mexico, Oklahoma, Fayetteville on the radio project are now working full Arkansas, St. Louis, Memphis, Nashville, time at the BBC. Cincinnati, Pittsburgh, Charlotte North He admires Daniel O’Donnell’s work, Carolina, Washington D.C., Philadelphia, and Phil Coulter’s. He toured Northern New York City or Boston you can catch Ireland as an opening act for Phil at one his show. point, and it’s the reason he did his album He called us from London where he with the music of Northern Ireland and a had just performed in a charity event for PBS TV special which went on to win four Children in Need to talk about his upcom- Emmys. “Phil’s songwriting talent is al- ing tour of the States. most unmatched. The talent in this small Born in Cooktown, County Tyrone, area of Northern Ireland is amazing,” said Northern Ireland, Eamonn knew early Eamonn. “Jimmy Kennedy blows my on that he had a love for music. With the mind. He wrote songs that range from the encouragement of a great teacher he was Hokey Pokey, to Red Sails in the Sunset, inspired to learn to play the flute. He to South of the Border Down Mexico decided on his own to master the piano, Way. People don’t realize they originate and he was a natural born singer. When in Northern Ireland. We have incredible Irish-Americans. he was only 9 years old his aunt and talent in Northern Ireland. It’s such a tiny This year of 2016, was the 7th anniver- his mother place to have such sary of the Center’s birth and the growth 44,000 square foot Civil War era building. called the talent,” he mused. and changes are remarkable. A lovely Of course, the Center is much more producers In 2009 at the bar-top and back bar, with carved col- than a building – It is really its people of a popular age of 21 Eamonn umns and backlit stained glass, have been that make the Center what it is, and that BBC TV show, was working for installed in the Pub Room. Beautiful pipe have contributed in so many ways to its the George the BBC. He went and drape scenery is printed on heavy growth and success! Jones Show home from Lon- paper and hung in the Tea Room, Green The goal remains to preserve and pro- that featured don on holidays Room and Dance Room. New flooring mote the Irish culture, and to provide a young tal- when a friend who adorns the Tea Room and Dance Room, place to do so in perpetuity and it is the ent, and told was a promoter and the entire public areas of the first 150 or more volunteers have made this them to call in Belfast asked floor have been fitted with air condition- venture viable. The Center is operated en- her son when him if he could ing and gas furnaces, enabling one of the tirely by volunteers, has no paid staff, and he got home give him a hand. two the steam boilers to be mothballed. yet delivers continuing programming in from school. McCrystal jumped New double pane windows have been all the artistic disciplines, classes in Irish So when he in and was the installed in the offices and restrooms culture and celebrations of Irish events walked in stage manager along the front entry side, an elevator is and holidays while maintaining adequate the door that for 14 acts on a under construction off the back entry side financing to do so. day and the variety show, the and a grant was announced at the event Well Done, Cincinnati! Continue what phone rang, UTV Country Fest. from the Emigrant Support Program of you are doing so well, so that together we his mother handed him the phone, and Martina McBride and Randy Travis the Irish government that will be used to succeed in transferring our heritage to our the rest is history. headlined the show. The promoter of the re-create the kitchen spaces in the former children’s children, and beyond. Eamonn didn’t have time to be scared. show had forgotten to arrange transport He took the schoolbag off of his back and for Elizabeth Travis. McCrystal’s dad had he sang for them over the phone. Viewers a new car, and the promoter knew it, so voted for their favorite that day and it was with his dad’s permission to use the car, Eamonn. That lead to him being invited he drove Elizabeth to Dublin from Belfast. To Ulster Hall in Belfast and he got to do a Anyone who has driven into Dublin for Christmas Concert sponsored by the BBC. the first time, knows what happened next. He was invited back every year after that Eamonn got lost trying to find a shop until he was 14 or 15. Elizabeth had been in before. To help her At thirteen McCrystal used what he pass the time while he drove around the had learned being on the radio and in one way streets looking for this place, he talent shows, and what he had earned gave Elizabeth one of his albums so she from singing in church, at weddings could look at the design and artwork and and funerals, to put together his first album. “People were asking me when I Continued on page 11 December 2016 “We’ve Always Been Green!” www.ianohio.com 9

Oriel (and early name for County Monaghan), gave the land and the materials for the building of the abbey, and Muirchertach Ua Lochlainn, king of Ulster gave cattle and gold. Some initial construction dif- ficulties which interrupted the Mellifont Abbey sidered one of the most beautiful work were settled by St. Ber- styles of medieval architecture. nard and St. Malachy and the Ireland has a long and rich Additionally, in relation to fields construction was resumed and Christian heritage which is en- such as agriculture, hydraulic continued until its completion in shrined in its many abbeys, engineering and metallurgy, the 1157. Before that date, however, monasteries and churches. From Cistercians became a significant St. Malachy visited Clairvaux in the more modest to the more im- force of technological advance- 1148 on another journey to Rome. pressive, these sites tell us much ment in medieval Europe. While there he was stricken with about the religious past and the By the mid-12th century, Irish fever and died in the arms of St. unique moments of history that monastic life had become signifi- Bernard on November 2, 1148. often occurred within their walls. cantly less austere and even less Before Mellifont’s church was One of these holy and historic sites is Mellifont Abbey. It was founded in 1142 on the orders of Saint Malachy, Archbishop of Armagh. The abbey sits on the banks of the River Mattock, six miles north-west of Drogheda in County Louth. Its name in Irish is An Mhainistir Mhór, (Pron.: ahn wain-is-teer vor), which literally means “the big abbey.” Mellifont Abbey was built by the Cistercian religious order. The Cistercian monks are some- times called the Bernadines, after their highly influential member St. Bernard of Clairvaux. The em- phasis of Cistercian life was on manual labor and self-sufficiency. religious than in earlier days. St. even consecrated, nine more Over the centuries, however, Malachy had visited Clairvaux Cistercian monasteries were es- education and academic pur- in France during a pilgrimage tablished in Ireland. At its height, suits came to dominate the life to Rome and had been so im- Mellifont was the originator of of their monasteries. pressed by St. Bernard and his 21 monasteries and Mellifont The term Cistercian derives monks that he petitioned the was the home to as many as 400 from Cistercium, the Latin name Pope for permission to resign as monks. By 1157, all the monks for the village of Citeaux, near Archbishop and enter the order of Mellifont were Irish. A dispute Dijon, France. It was in this vil- as a novice. between the native Irish monks lage that a group of Benedictine This permission was refused, and the French monks had led monks founded Citeaux Abbey but on his return journey he left to the French monks returning in 1098. St. Bernard of Clairvaux some of his companions with St. to France. entered the monastery in the Bernard to be trained in Cister- Within thirty years of the early 1110s with 30 companions cian life with a view to founding founding of Mellifont Abbey, and helped the rapid prolifera- a Cistercian monastery in Ireland the Norman army landed in tion of the order. to act a reforming influence. So, Wexford in 1169. The Normans The keynote of Cistercian life in 1140, St. Malachy invited the were initially supportive of the was a return to a literal obser- Cistercians to Ireland and they Cistercian abbeys and as they vance of the Rule of St. Benedict. settled in the remote site in advanced through Ireland they That rule governed every aspect 1142 and began construction of allowed the abbeys to keep the of monastic life. Believing that a monastery in the traditional titles to their property. As time the Benedictines were not strictly Cistercian style. This marked the passed, however, they sought following the Rule of St. Benedict, first time that a monastery was to use the monasteries as centers the Cistercian monks tried to built in Ireland with the formal of Norman influence by having replicate monastic life exactly as layout used on the Continent. Norman monks appointed to all it had been in Saint Benedict’s Various Irish kings gave dona- positions of authority and expel- time; in fact, they often went tions to assist in the foundation ling Irish monks and replacing beyond the Rule in austerity. of Mellifont Abbey: Donnachadh Cistercian architecture is con- Ua Cearbhaill (O’Carroll), king of Continued on page 21 10 IAN Ohio “We’ve Always Been Green!” www.ianohio.com December 2016

turcaí (thur-kee) turkey hundred and forty languages. During the Christmas Cloigín (klegg-een) bells Truce of 1914 during the Great War, it was sung Speak Irish cártaí Nollaig (cawr-thee null-ug) simultaneously in English and German by soldiers on Christmas cards both sides of the front line. Labhair Gaeilge Ornáidí (ur-naw djee) decorations If you are a regular reader of this column you already know that music is a great way to learn Irish. By Bob Carney FRÁSA (frah-sa) PHRASE The very gifted singer Enya does a beautiful rendition of Oíche Chiúin on YouTube, featuring some stunning Nollaig Shona Duit (null-ug hona photography of Ireland. You can use the lyrics below gwitch) Merry Christmas to you to sing along with the video, you will find it easy to Christmas time is here, along with winter Nollaig Shona Daoibh (null-ug hona yeev) follow along and develop an understanding of Irish weather. Our vocabulary words and phrases Merry Christmas to all of you spelling and pronunciation. Before long you just this month will help us this season as we Beannachtái an tSéasúir (ban-ukh-ta un tay soor) might find yourself singing this, my favorite of all the send our Christmas wishes to our Seasons Greetings Christmas songs. friends and famiy. Nollaig faoi shéan agus faoi mhaise duit/ daoibh Oíche chúin, oíche Mhic Dé, (null-ug fwee hayn ah-gus fwee huh-ness gwitch/yeev) Cách ‘na suan dís araon, FOCLÓIR (fohk- lore) VOCABULARY Christmas happiness and goodness Dís is dílse ‘faire le spéis sioc (shuk) frost to you/all of you Naoín beag gnaoigheal sneachta (shnak-tuh) snow Athbhliain faoi mhaise duit/daoibh (ah-vleen fwee vosh Ceananntais caomh sa gheimhreadh (sa-ghivrah) in winter ah gwtch/yeev) A happy prosperous fear sneachta (far shnak-tuh) snowman New Year to you/all of you Críost, ‘na chodhladh go séimh. fuar (foo-ar) cold Rath Dé ort (ray day ort) God bless you Críost, ‘na chodhladh go séimh. féirin (fayr-een) gift Beannacht Dé leat (ban-ukht day lee-ut) Crann Nollaig (krann null-ug) Christmas tree God’s blessing with you Oíche chiúin, oíche Mhic Dé, Lá Nollaig (law null-ug) Christmas Day There is no better way to learn Irish, than to speak Aoirí ar dtús chuala ‘n scéal; Oíche Nollaig (ee-khuh null-ug) Christmas Eve Irish. We can use the phrases above all month long as we Allelúia aingeal ag glaoch. Daidí na Nollaig (dad-ee null-ug) Santa Claus shop and visit with friends and family. We like to write Cantain suairc i ngar is i gcéin Lá na bliana úire (law na bleena oora) our Christmas greetings in Irish in all of our Christmas New Years Day cards, it’s good practice and a great way to show our Críost an Slánaitheoir Féin réalta (rayl-tuh) star enthusiasm for Gaeilge. Críost an Slánaitheoir Féin Íosa (ee-uh-ssuh) Jesus Winter 2017 Speak Irish Cleveland classes begin Janu- Muire (mwir-uh) Mary ary 17 at P.J McIntyre’s Irish Pub (Thank you so much Pat Oíche chiúin, oíche Mhic Dé, Seosamh (shoh-soo) Joseph Campbell!). The classes run for ten weeks, and would Cách ‘na suan dís araon, Aingeal (ayn-gul) angel make a fantastic Christmas gift for someone. You can Dís is dílse ‘faire le spéis Cór (khor) choir see the ad in this months issue for more information. Naoín beag gnaoigheal carúil (cahr-oo-il) carols Make time this month to remember why we celebrate Ceananntais caomh Cuileann (qwill-un) holly Christmas, sometimes a smile or a kind word is the drualas (dhroo-ah-lus) mistletoe greatest gift we can give. Críost, ‘na chodhladh go séimh. Aifreann Meán Oíche (af-runn mahn ee-khuh) Críost, ‘na chodhladh go séimh. Midnight Mass Oíche Chiúin stoca na Nollaig (sthuk-ah na null-ug) Nollaig Shona agus Athbhlian Faoi Mhaise Duit Christmas stocking Silent Night is probably one of the most well (null-ug hona ag-gus ah-vleen fwee vosh-ah gwitch) Ciste Nollaig (kish-ta null-ug) Christmas cake known Christmas carols. It was composed in 1818 HAPPY CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR TO YOU from Bob Iosaid (us-kidh) ham by Franz Xaver Gruber to lyrics penned by Joseph Carney and all of us at Speak Irish Cleveland Gé (gay) goose Muhr in Austria. It has been translated into over one- [email protected]

Steak • Seafood • Prime Rib Irish Specialties and Spirits The Unicorn Restaurant & Pub

Open from 11:30 a.m. Tuesday - Friday & 4:00 p.m. Saturdays

423 Main Street (Route 57) Grafton, Ohio 44044 440-926-2621

Minutes South of 480 and Route 10 West (Elyria-Medina Exit) December 2016 “We’ve Always Been Green!” www.ianohio.com 11

Eamon McCrystal Continued from page 8

read the liner notes and he thought nothing else of it. She gave the CD to her hairdresser who gave it back to her and made her listen to it. She must have been impressed because the next month she signed Eamonn to a contract. He went back to London to wrap up his job, and moved to America shortly after thinking he would be here for a month or so. Seven years later he is still in America and she is his agent to this day. He’s not a country artist by any means but he’s played

the Grand Ol Opry and been invited back several times. His first year in America he learned a lot by touring with Randy Travis. At 29 he has recorded 10 albums. He loved the pro- duction process and seeing how it all came together. He likes doing theme albums. “We did a Christian album, and a Christmas album. This last one is a collection of songs that people have requested whether on twitter, Facebook, or at one of his shows. Ever the entrepreneur, he created an internet TV station, the Eamonn McCrystal Network, a talk show format with 30 minute episodes featuring great guests, and it continues to this day. Eamonn.net is the website. Go check it out and make some time to catch his show or check out his music. 12 IAN Ohio “We’ve Always Been Green!” www.ianohio.com December 2016

State. Teaching and physical therapy were the two fields that I was interested in. I applied at Metro Health, I was a student there in 1985, then went back and obtained a position there in the burn unit. I worked there from 1986 to 1988. Maureen Hennessey OhIAN: That has to be a very difficult OhIAN: Maureen, you were born in unit to work in? Cleveland’s West Park neighborhood, did Maureen: It is; you see a lot of suffering. you go to school there as well? Everyone who works with burn victims is Maureen: I went to McKinley for kinder- affected to some extent. During that time I met a man named Rory Hennessey. Rory had lost his wife to cancer; he had three children at the time. When we started dating, I decided I wanted a job that was less intense. At Metro you would work night and day and usu- ally go home late from your shift. I just wanted a little more personal time, so I moved to St. John Lutheran. OhIAN: Were you still doing physical therapy? Maureen: Yes, I moved garten, then to St. Vincent de Paul for grade into the skilled nursing facility. The money school. For high school I went to Holy Name was better at the time and I could work three on the eastside. After high school I went to days a week and be home more. It worked the University of Dayton, where I earned much better for our new family. my degree. OhIAN: Aren’t you at Metro Health now? OhIAN: Did you become a physical thera- Maureen: Yes, I was asked back to join pist after graduation? a research team. I thought about it quite a Maureen: No, I became a teacher and bit and after fourteen years, I came back to taught at St. Clemons first, then at St. Lukes Metro. The research project was scheduled and St. Vincent de Paul simultaneously. It for five years and ended up lasting six. was while I was teaching Phys. Ed. that a When the project ended, I moved to the

mother asked me why her child ran the way skilled nursing facility here and that’s where she did. I didn’t have an answer but I started I am today. to research it and ended up going back to OhIAN: Are you involved in training school for physical therapy. physical therapy students? I started at Tri-C, where I had some very Maureen: I’m certified to teach. I want to good teachers, and finished at Cleveland Continued on page 16

14 IAN Ohio “We’ve Always Been Green!” www.ianohio.com December 2016

young fella approached me after Mass hold political office. They were parti- with a Whitebread T-shirt. Apprecia- tioned and separated from their rela- tive of his commitment in an era of tives. Students were quick to answer: gluten free and 9 grain, I envisioned a the Palestinians. lobster roll at the Cape or a Sugardale Incorrect, again. Slight frustration with Stadium Mustard. Regardless, set into the rows of desks and those Mass is not for T-shirts. Fortunately, who occupied them. I shared stories Aunt Irene did not witness this behavior. of people being killed by the govern- It was with much travail I re-focused ment. Shot in streets. Shot at a football It’s the Irish, Stupid virtually unequivocal, although I have on his shirt. Two “e’s”, no “a”. White- match. Shot with impunity. Shot when to wonder where I would be without breed. At this point, I had begun to they protested for peace on a Sunday. cuneiform. return his handshake. Fool me once. Before that they were victims of “hang- “Don’t listen to her, Bob. Remember: Aunt Irene also taught me that there He let me know that they were “or- ing Judges,” a term that originates in those who can do, do; those who can’t, were two types of people in the world. ganizing” and a “guy like me would be the land of their birth. They were im- teach.” Although more consistently Her binary was not applicable to Fri- welcome.” It took a moment to grasp prisoned or sent away in numbers that Man than Superman, this was the day’s class. “Francis, there are two his intent so close to offering peace. He would astound a current criminologist. repetitive recitation I heard when I re- types. Those who show up to Mass on shared that I looked like a guy who was That seemed like low hanging fruit to lated my resolve to teach. I preferred time the morning after we change our proud of his culture. I retorted that I those in the rows of desks. Black Lives Aunt’s Irene’s judicious mantra, “Can’t clocks and those who don’t.” was in fact a proud Irish Catholic, a Matter, Mr. McGarry. Not so fast, my teach what you don’t know.” Even Earl Perhaps hermeneutically localized, Hibernian who has completed his major friend. Manigoat’s, “You reach, I teach” was a but I took it to heart. Later in life I degrees. As such, I would never join They then learned of Charles Cun- more desired educational ethos. acknowledged a tertiary type, me Ma. a WASP, cross burning, group of buf- ningham Boycott, an English land agent Every Friday in World History we re- Fall forward and spring back. We were foons. He was shocked, but lucky he in Ireland. Semi-anonymous, like I late the week’s lessons to Ireland. Two never an hour early nor an hour late. I was not struck. I was confident Aunt said. He was ostracized by the Irish in Friday’s past we partook in a vibrant should have grasped why there was Irene would endorse, if not initiate. Mayo. Ostracized was a vocab word debate regarding Alexander the Great no 1 o’clock Mass as we diverted to the Romans 12.21. in our section on the Greeks, applied and his inability to conquer Ireland. Perpetual Adoration Chapel, and that This past Friday I amended my in- to those deemed a threat to democracy. Ireland 1, Hellenistic culture 0. we went to 9 o’clock only once a year. struction. It was still Irish Friday. I As a result of the social protest and a It followed identical considerations Sunday evening Mass at the Cathe- imparted semi-anonymous historicistic tad bit of violence, 50 Orangemen were concerning the Sumerians, Hittites dral was a passive aggressive compro- collective narratives. My scholars’ only recruited to Mayo to harvest his crops. and Carthaginians. The great Khans mise to the daylight saving conundrum. task was to determine the protagonist(s). As a result of the history of social protest were no match for the Irish. The in- I live more of a Basilica life, but a Ca- We discussed immigrants who did not and a tad bit of violence in Ireland, we doctrination of my first year students is thedral will suffice. This Sunday past a speak the language. Immigrants who have the verb “to boycott.” took the jobs of native-born Our discussion turned to quasi- Americans. Immigrants who encoded talks on the Penal Codes, would be termed “illegal” Cromwell, Michael Collins and the in the parlance of our time. IRA, Bloody Sunday, 1916, the Troubles, Hands sprung into the air Hunger Strikes and Bobby Sands, and like fireworks on the 4th. the Famine. Each topic resulted in an “Take that England.” It is the equally futile guess as to the historical Mexicans, Mr. McGarry. protagonists. We then discussed other Then conversation turned to the immigrants who were at- Kensington Riots and the Know Noth- tacked because of their re- ing Party persecution, the KKK in Texas, ligion. It was thought that the San Patricios, Charles Carroll sign- their allegiance was to a ing the Declaration of Independence as foreign power. These immi- the only Irish Catholic and being barred grants were attacked in plac- from public office in Maryland because es like Philadelphia, home of of that. He was an O’Carroll before the the Liberty Bell. These im- Penal Codes and in America, it was migrants also fought back. A feared he served the Pope. few of them were hung in the My students were late to lunch. They coal regions of Pennsylvania did not request to go eat. They wanted as perceived retribution. to know the answers, perhaps a more That last historical references vital indoctrination. They wanted to caused a slight pause, but know the truth. They were not Irish their resounding response (there is a kid named James that I call was the Syrians. Seamus, but that doesn’t really count); Appropriately, we then the truth does not care. Whitebread did discussed a movement for not want to know the truth. freedom in which these peo- It was the Irish, kids. It has always ple were branded terrorists. been the Irish. Have a good Friday and These people were second- go to lunch. Fish; Aunt Irene loved class citizens in their own fried cod. In a week we discuss why land. They were not able to do schools serve fish on Fridays? vote. They were not able to December 2016 “We’ve Always Been Green!” www.ianohio.com 15

nitrogen to be precise. Nitrogen for a bit if you choose. This is also baking powder, and salt into a mixes well with malt dominant a cake that is better a day later. bowl. Rub in the butter, then stir beers like the porters. The nitro- The flavors need a bit of time to in the brown sugar, raisins, and gen is what produces the mul- settle into each other. Just like candied peel. titudes of light yet sturdy little everything to do with Guinness, Whisk the eggs in another bubbles that leap from the tap it takes a bit of time. bowl and add the porter. Pour and glide into a pint glass. The Enjoy and Happy Holidays to into the dry ingredients and mix pint glass itself should be a tulip one and all!!!! well. Pour into the prepared pan. My Guinness, Zen, that being that he does not shaped pint glass that is tipped Porter Cake Bake for about 2 hours. If the My Goodness order Guinness any place where at a forty-five degree angle. Fill Ingredients cake starts to brown too quickly it looks dodgy. at this angle until the Guinness 3 1/2 cups (450g) all-purpose on top, cover it with aluminum Walking through a crowded One of our best pints was reaches the bottom of the tulip’s (plain) flour foil or waxed (greaseproof) pa- Irish bar, I have accidentally served in a bar in Ireland that bump or at the harp. Then leave 1 teaspoon grated or ground per after about 1 hour. The cake eavesdropped on a few con- it to settle until you see a nutmeg is done when a skewer inserted versations that contained distinct line between the beer 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice into the center comes out clean. the phrase, “the best I ever and its head. At this point (mixed spice) Allow the cake to sit in the pan had was…”. To my appro- you top it off by holding the 1 teaspoon baking powder for about 20 minutes before priately shocked 21st cen- glass level and pouring into Pinch of salt turning it out and cooling it on tury ears, I initially thought the middle. It should settle 1 cup (225g) butter a wire rack. that I had overheard stories a second time before you 1 cup packed (225g) light Sources: Mansfield, Stephen. that belonged to an issue of drink. brown sugar (2009) The Search for God and Cosmopolitan. Rest assured All this talk made me 1 pound (450g) golden raisins Guinness. Thomas Nelson Inc. gentle reader, it is Ireland thirsty, but only for a good (sultanas) or raisins or a mixture Allen, Rachel. (2013) Porter Cake. after all, and the noun that one, a work of art. of both Epicurious.com website the word best referred to I am sharing a holiday 3 ounces (75g) chopped can- *Lisa O’Rourke is an educator was not a person, but rather recipe using Guinness. There died peel, store-bought or home- from Akron. She has a BA in it referenced the real love of are all kinds of recipes out made English and a Master’s in Read- many an Irishman, a good there for all kinds of dessert 2 eggs ing/Elementary Education. Lisa pint of Guinness. using a touch of the black 1 (12-ounce/330ml) bottle is a student of everything Irish, While Budweiser has cer- stuff. A cup or so definitely porter or stout primarily Gaeilge . She runs tainly gained in popular- enhances a stew, if you can Preparation a Gaeilge study group at the ity in Ireland, I have never spare it. The recipe below for Preheat the oven to 350°F AOH/Mark Heffernan Division. seen anyone go misty-eyed Porter Cake is a traditional (180°C/Gas mark 4). Line the She is married to Dónal and has talking about it. That dewy classic. sides and bottom of an 8-inch (20 two sons, Danny and Liam. Lisa look and hyperbolic rapture It is very like barm brack, cm) high-sided round cake pan enjoys art, reading, music, and is reserved for the black stuff. was once the house of the Wilde but instead of tea, Guinness is (the sides should be about 2 3/4 travel. She enjoys spending time Like many beloveds, Guinness family, the house in which Oscar the wet ingredient. The recipe inches/7 cm high) with waxed with her dog, cats and fish. Lisa has many nicknames that any was born. We had tried to hitch calls for wet into dry, but you (greaseproof) paper. can be contacted at native would understand. Other into town on a dark and rainy could soak the fruit in the porter Sift the flour, nutmeg, spice, [email protected]. pseudonyms are pint o’ plain, night. It being dark and rainy we Liffey Water, Diesel and Irish were not even sure that anyone Champagne. in the one or two cars that passed A great pint is a work of art even saw us. By the time that we and like many other works of arrived at the Oscar, we were wet, art, patience is involved in its cold and the worse for wear. creation. Guinness begins in We took two charge of two fields with barley, just like other high stools and ordered two beers. The barley is made wet pints of Guinness. The barman and sprout and dried. This is took his time; tilting the glass at the malting process. Then it is the 45 degree angle, topping a bit, roasted. The length of time that stopping to let it settle and then the malted barley is roasted is filling a bit more. He topped it what determines how dark the with a knife and then added a beer will be, Guinness again bit more to finish it off. Foam requires some patience. clung to the sides of the glass all A second important element of the way down to the last drop. a good pint is the pour. My hus- It was not heavy but warming band, who is generally an easy and comforting the way only it going guy, becomes histrionic is. As the incomparable Flann when he sees Guinness poured O’Brian wrote in the poem The poorly. In the presence of a bad Workman’s Friend- “In time of pour, he has sent pints back, told trouble and lousey strife, You barmen that he would never have still got a darlint plan You order another pint from them still can turn to a brighter life -A and generally behaved rudely. pint of plain is your only man.” He has finally come to an Irish The pour itself is chemistry, 16 IAN Ohio “We’ve Always Been Green!” www.ianohio.com December 2016

Maureen Hennessey tourism was down in Ireland. A group of Rose of Tralee you can visit www.ohiorose. dent Carter asked him to be on the commitee Continued from page 12 businessmen got together and started this com or you can apply at www.roseoftralee. for the National Council for Disabilities. His make sure the students are comfortable with annual event which brings young women of com. The deadline for applying this year is passion was to help people. what they’re doing when they come to me. Irish descent from around the world back to Dec. 31 2016. My dad loved to golf, and when he passed, Not many therapists have worked in burn Ireland. Roses from all over travel to Ireland OhIAN: Tell us about the John A. Gannon it seemed like a natural thing to put on a golf units. I learned so much from that experi- where one is chosen to be the Rose of Tralee. Memorial Golf Outing. outing. We held the first one Sept. 16, 1998 ence. Everyone, including those that worked These young women become ambassadors Maureen: “Jack” Gannon was my father. and so far we have raised over $770,000.00 in housekeeping, are part of the team in burn and have traveled to different countries, He was a Cleveland firefighter for thirty- for the Burn and Trauma Center. Jack Gan- units. My faith was strenghtened because of recently to Africa to work with children some years. The Burn and Trauma Center non was all about the community. my time there and my experiences with so there, and have even met the President. It’s at Metro Health is named for him. During OhIAN: So it seems is his daughter, Mau- many of the patients I worked with. This a a great oppurtunity for these young women his time as a firefighter he campaigned for reen Hennessy. ministry, I think I’m doing what God wants to experience a variety of things. health coverage for firefighters and police. Since it’s beginning, the Burn Care Center me to do. OhIAN: Have you been involved all this It used to be if someone was hurt on the at MetroHealth has treated both pediatric OhIAN: Besides work and family, you’re time? job, people like my father would be in the and adult patients. It started with two beds involved in a few other things, how did you Maureen: I was one of the last Roses from hospital waiting room telling the hospital in enclosed rooms within the surgical center. become active in the Rose of Tralee Festival? Ohio for about twenty-five years. When it staff they would raise the money some- In 1987, The John A. Gannon Comprehen- Maureen: When I was younger, I was did start up here again, I showed up at a how to pay the medical expenses for their sive Burn Care Center at MetroHealth Medi- given an application to become a Rose from meeting and found some of my friends there colleague. My father made many trips to cal Center opened, with 14 inpatient beds, a family that lived near us. The Rose of and became active in promoting this great Columbus, lobbying for the coverage they five of those dedicated to burn intensive Tralee Festival was started at a time when festival. For more information on the Ohio eventually received. care. It has grown since then and is widely He became vice-president of the union, recognized as the regional burn care center. and then was elected president from 1980 To date, the center has had over 8.000 – 1988. admissions and has an overall survival rate Metro Health knew of my father, and of 97 percent. MetroHealth provides medi- asked for his help when they were expand- cal and support services to more than 3,000 ing. They knew he was able to help them be trauma and 1,700 burn victims each year. If compliant with new and upcoming fire and you would like to help support them you safety codes. After that he was asked to join can find more information about the golf the Board of Trustees for the hospital. Presi- outing at www.metrohealth.org

The Ohio Irish American News & Pj McIntyre’s Irish Pub are proud to present: Speak Irish Cleveland Classes start January 17th every Tuesday for 10 weeks All skill levels are wel- come, learn, share; Have Fun. 6:15 - 7:00 ~ Introduction to Speak Irish text book 7:00 - 8:00 ~ Interactive conversational skills

$120 for all 10 classes (returning students $100) Pre-registration is required: Checks to: Ohio Irish American News 14615 Triskett Road Cleveland, Ohio 44111-3123 December 2016 “We’ve Always Been Green!” www.ianohio.com 17

planet in 2017. Soccer: Although impressive form all season with However, the one area where it would not have made the back Bournemouth in the Premier Ireland are still lacking depth is pages of newspapers outside of League, saw his first taste of upfront, and it is rumoured that Ireland, the national soccer team competitive action for Ireland Brentford striker Scott Hogan is also currently riding on a crest when he started against Austria will be approached to play inter- of a wave. The Boys in Green in Vienna. Such is Arter’s form nationally for Ireland. Hogan has finished the year at the top of it is likely that he will, barring been in good goal scoring form Ireland Ends the Year in Seasonal Cheer a very competitive World injury, hold his place in the side. for the Championship and his Cup qualifying group, af- O’Neill also included two teammate John Egan, who hails This winter so far has been In the end, the scoreline read ter they beat Austria 1-0 in players from the Irish league in from Cork and plays centre-half, one of contentment across the 40-29, with New Zealand tasting an away fixture in what could an international squad for the is another who could make the sporting environs of Ireland. defeat on the international stage be a very significant result in first time in his tenure when he step up into the national squad When totting up on the abacus for the first time in two and a Ireland’s hopes of qualifying added Dundalk’s Daryl Murphy during the coming months. of achievement, it is difficult half years. For the many in at- for the most prestigious soccer and Andy Boyle after they im- For now, Irish sport is full of to remember a time when Irish tendance, it was an occasion that tournament for the first time pressed in their club’s Europa hope and optimism. Pray it con- sport was in as good a place won’t ever be forgotten and the since 2002. League campaign. tinues over to 2017. and it has been a wonderful few 15 that started and all the impact As it stands, Ireland are out in weeks for the soul; for it’s been replacements, this first victory front in Group D on 10 points, great to cheer and witness these against New Zealand will be a two ahead of fourth seeds Ser- accomplishments through green- significant annotation in their bia, while Euro semi-finalists tinted glasses. Wales and the aforementioned When life is going this well, it Austria reside at six and four is important to cling on to these points respectively after four moments with a tightened grip, games. Manager Martin O’Neill for it is inevitable that such a and his assistant Roy Keane marvellous perspective certain- have managed to continue in ly can’t last forever. Last month the vein that brought a huge lift the Irish rugby team defeated the country over the summer the All-Blacks for the first time when they beat Italy to reach in a whirlwind game of twists the knockout stages of the Eu- and turns on a bright Soldier Joe Schmidt ropean Championships. Field in Chicago that will lin- Martin O’Neill has a squad ger in the memory. This much of players that are leaving ev- sought-after victory against the erything they have on the field perennial rugby superpower had sporting careers. and so far they have taken ad- been a long time coming and the For the Irish sporting public it vantage of the breaks that have manner of the triumph made the was a joy to behold and a deed to come their way. Against Austria, wait all the more worthwhile. savour. If it seemed that sporting James McClean scored his third Playing a brand of rugby life in Ireland couldn’t get much goal of the campaign to break where Ireland attacked wide better, the following weekend the deadlock after he ran onto and at speed, Irish rugby coach saw further Irish sporting suc- a terrific through-ball by Wes Joe Schmidt caught his native cesses of note on the interna- Hoolahan and blasted through land unawares. The men wear- tional stage. the goalkeeper’s legs for the goal ing green refused to kick away Connor McGregor made UFC that secured the three points. possession for long periods and history when he became the first What makes the Irish position carried with intent throughout. fighter to hold two World Titles even more encouraging is that Just as impressive as the attack- at different weights at the same Ireland have played both Austria ing patterns was the Irish front time, when he mercilessly took and Serbia away from home and five earning domination at the apart a very credible opponent will welcome the pair back to scrum, while providing Ireland in Eddie Alverez at Madison Dublin next year. The next round with an attacking lineout maul Square Gardens in New York. of qualifiers will see Ireland play that had the All Blacks under There were a number of UFC afi- a pivotal home match against pressure throughout. Ireland cionados who thought prefight Wales at the Aviva in March took a prominent 22-point lead that Alverez has the wrestling followed up by another home when Simon Zebo scored a try aptitude to overcome McGregor, game against Austria in June. A not long after half-time, only for who startled even the most fer- win for the Irish would consid- New Zealand to score three sec- verant of his travelling support erably scupper both opponents’ ond half tries to reduce the gap with the unmitigated control chances of occupying the top two between the sides to four points he displayed from the start to placings in the group. with 15 minutes left to play. For win with a second round stop- Another feather in O’Neill’s every Irish supporter there was page, without much difficulty. cap has been his willingness a tangible fear that another gut Such has been his emergence in to introduce new blood into wrenching defeat could be in the Mixed Martial Arts; McGregor the squad and the first eleven. stars only for Robbie Henshaw to is transcending the sport and in Eunan O’Kane came on as a sub- crash over for the insurance try doing so could very well become stitute in the win over Moldova that helped see out the victory. the best paid sports star on the while Harry Arter, who has been 18 IAN Ohio “We’ve Always Been Green!” www.ianohio.com December 2016

“P-Pardon me interruption Fa- a change in Christmas plans with mother Maeve. ther Colm,” stuttered Francis. Margaret?” Order again restored at St. Francis was a kind young man With a start, Father Colm nearly Patrick’s Church, Father Colm who had an uncanny way with dropped his currant bun at the thought it time to explain Meg’s animals. His own collie Wren sudden ruckus coming from the plans for her Christmas tea. saved many a child in Rock Strand front vestibule of the church. “Margaret, I was most remiss from harm. “Francis, hurry lad, and see if it is in not telling you that your sister “Francis, no need to rap on my a saint or sinner at our door!” Meg came to me wringing her A Tale for Christmas self, “Sure, could you imagine the oak. Now, what brings you here so “Shoo boys, get that dirty animal hands about a change in plans Corrigan twins, Paddy and Petey, early this fine morning?” out of this church!” scolded Widow for Christmas,” Father Colm ex- Morning light streamed through disruptin’ this peaceful scene “Father, the Widow Margaret Margaret. plained gently. the stained glass window illumi- with Blarney, their new spotted asked me to bring you this hot Father Colm and Francis “Sure, it’s not your fault Father. nating Father Colm’s roll top desk. spaniel?” pot o’ tea and these warm currant stopped short at the scene. There I was just a bit upset when Meg This window was a particular Paddy and Petey Corrigan never buns.” stood Paddy and Petey Corrigan, told me that she was going back favorite of the pastor. Brightly meant any harm, but mayhem “Ach, my belly is callin’ with mud caked past the top of their to Killarney to have Christmas colored panes depicted Jesus en- seemed to pave their paths. the hunger and Margaret’s cur- Wellingtons and Blarney the span- tea with her beau, the Widower circled by a ring of children hold- Father Colm’s young seminar- rant buns do be the answer to his iel pup chewing at the offertory Charlie. I was delighted to finally ing newborn lambs. ian Francis Fahey knocked lightly prayers. Why the long face lad, did baskets. have Meg’s company at my hearth Father Colm laughed to him- at the door. ye’ not get your share of the buns “Petey, Paddy! See here lads, for Christmas tea this first year that this morning?” oughten you be in school? Mrs. she moved back to Rock Strand “Why, no Father. I mean yes, Fa- Honor will surely be lookin’ for ye from Killarney. The winds do seem ther. Sure, I had a buttered bun, but both in the front row of the choir to howl a bit more now that I am the widow does seem a bit out of room. Isn’t Christmas but a week moving on in my years,” explained sorts. Even Wren noticed it. When away?” queried Father Colm. Margaret. the Widow Margaret offered him “Y’see Father, w’all due respect, “Indeed I do appreciate sharing his daily black puddin’, didn’t he didn’t our spaniel Blarney follow Christmas dinner with you, and of tuck his nose into his paws and me and Petey to school? Well, Mis- course dear Francis, but this year look up at the widow with concern tress Donohue near blew the bun were to be different. I been decorat- in his blue eyes?” clear off her head and I don’t mean ing the house with McCracken’s “Now Francis, I do think you are one of the Widow’s famous currant holly, I have the Christmas cake lettin’ your kind nature get the best buns,” explained Paddy. doused with brandy, and that of you. Surely wasn’t Margaret “As sure as the day is short at dote Petey Corrigan was going hummin’ her favorite Christmas Christmastide, Mistress Donahue to sing the Wexford Carol at my hymn, the Wexford Carol, last was going to spell us straight from hearth. You know how I do love night as she polished the floors school. No amount of my beautiful that hymn.” with pine soap, and decked the singin’ would get us out of that “I understand Margaret. Perhaps altar with sprigs of holly from quandary,” whistled Petey. there is a way that we can all have McCracken’s field? But now that “So Mrs. Honor tried to save the a happy Christmas,” said Father you say it, she didn’t seem to sing day by tyin’ Blarney to the tree Colm with a wink in his eye. with the same vigor as normal. I outside the choir room, but didn’t After a week of choir practice see that now, as I ne’er once needed that pup chew straight through the and school pageants, Christmas to cover my ears with me woolen rope and set a racin’ after Wren for day finally arrived in Rock Strand. scarf,” chuckled Father Colm. a bit of a play,” continued Paddy. On Christmas Eve morn, Widow Though the Widow Marga- “And so we chased Blarney Margaret wished her sister Meg a ret loved her music, she could through the blackberry brambles. joyous holiday, and Meg assured not quite wrap her vocal chords He’s a bit daft you see, and fol- her that she would be on the early around the high notes. lowed Wren here. Mrs. Honor train and back at their hearth in “Can you think of any other rea- was shouting for our safe return time for the arrival of the wren son besides Wren’s reluctance and and the Mistress Donohue was boys on St. Stephen’s Day. the widow’s own lack of melody wagglin’ her stout finger at us,” “Tis’ fine sister. I have made an that would give reason for her finished Petey. extra pudding of porter cake for mood?” “Tis’ true,” replied Paddy. Father and my Christmas tea. Sure, “Why yes, Father. She made the All three adults could barely con- we’ll be grand.” remark, not that unkindly mind, tain their laughter at the blessed As all those who spend a Christ- that the good Father Colm ought sight of the boys and the two dogs mas in Rock Strand know, there is to enjoy his buns now because he at play. Even the Widow managed always a miracle to be had, and won’t be havin’ them with his tea to forget her earlier troubles. this Christmas proved to be no this Christmas. Sorry sir, but she After the boys had been given a different. did seem to hint that you were the jar of black currant juice and warm “Petey, come here. Da and I have cause of her foul humor,” apolo- buns, Francis and Wren brought arranged a surprise for the Widow gized Francis. the boys back to school, where Margaret,” whispered Paddy. “How could I have forgotten! they begged forgiveness for their “But Paddy, I am already to Didn’t the Widow Meg, her own Blarney. Meanwhile, Francis and sing for the good widows on St. dear sister who moved from Killar- Wren continued on to the Corri- Stephen’s Day. Sure they think I ney back to Rock Strand near a gan farm to deposit the wayward Continued on page 27 year to the date, ask me to discuss spaniel with the twin’s sainted December 2016 “We’ve Always Been Green!” www.ianohio.com 19

too, while honoring the first musical forays magic and joy that he were coming with brought to so many. his father to see “So there are two emp- Brian and me play- ty frames on the CD cov- ing with Sean Mc- er, one for my twin, and Cabe in the earliest one for Ray. And there incarnation of The Twenty Years a-Growing: are those that are present Prodigals, on the in the images, Dave Fahy stage of a bar long The Prodigals’ Ninth CD, “Brothers” from Galway, and Trifon since gone, Brews, Around 1995, we added Celtic Rock to but he loved the joie de vie. And I brought Dimitrov from Bulgaria, on 34th Street. our lineup at Cleveland Irish Cultural also a cake that my mother had baked for part of the madly eclectic “We are all a Festival. We found The Prodigals and their our birthday. family that happens in band of brothers, irrepressible sound, passion and respect “This is a song about that night. As music, above all in New now, and always. for the Irish heritage were a master fit much it is as a song of missing him, it is a York City. And there is The Prodigals in introducing for the first time this new song of love and gratitude for the person Brian Tracey, who in the extraordinary feature Gregory Grene of County Cavan element to our attendees – pleasing both that he was. The second verse references circular path of our New York Irish musical on vocals and button accordion, and traditional music purists and their kids, songs that he sang, beautifully: ‘Bridget globe, has rejoined the band that he started Galway’s Dave Fahy on vocals and guitar, cousins and the kaleidoscope that is Irish O’Malley’, ‘Sweet Thames, Flow Softly’, with me twenty years ago. with Belfast native Alex Grene on fiddle, music across the Irish Diaspora; world and ‘Whistling Phil McHugh’. “And there is our youngest member, my driving the melodic end of things; they are music may now be the best description. “He was, truthfully, one of the finest spectacular nephew, Andrew’s son Alex, backed by a rhythm section that has been I believe the evolu- singers I’ve heard: when born in Belfast, but a music graduate deservedly singled out as the most remark- tion has been going he came in to sing at from University of Chicago, who carries able in the genre, with New York’s Brian on since the dawn Paddy Reilly’s, our local, forward the musical spirit of his father. His Continued on page 21 of man, and is self the bar would fall silent righting. with the beauty of his 20 years later, the singing. May he rest in Prodigals are still peace and love, and his thriving and their memory live on with music, tinged by life, those of us who were so is just as impactful. fortunate to know him. To celebrate, they “The school we built in have just released his name in Haiti always “Brothers”. feels to me as though it Prodigal’s founder is something of a gift he and foreman, Gregory Grene: “It has been left for me for healing, and last year when six years since our last CD. During those I was teaching there, a student thrust a six years, a couple of events happened that crumpled note into my hand, which I un- meant that making new music was just not folded and read: ‘Andrew n’est pas mort; possible for a while; most particularly for il vit en nous.” “Andrew did not die, he me, my twin brother [Andrew] was lost in lives in us.’ It may sound like some kind the 2010 earthquake in Haiti, where he was of self-delusion, but I don’t think so – I do working with the United Nations. There believe that twin of mine continues to look are initially no words for this kind of loss, down on me. and for a while it seems impossible to write ”Anyway – the CD honors, I hope, that anything that can convey one’s truth; and beautiful soul; and also remembers an- at the same time, to write about anything other person who also meant so much to else feels impossible too, and untrue to the the band, in multiple frameworks, and that point of feeling wrong. is Ray Kelly. He, of course, powered the “Time moves on, and though the loss is band forward when he joined. The band no less, we find a way – I hope – to honor will be marking its twentieth anniversary a soul whose beauty lit my world. Two next year, and a key evolution of the band songs in this are dedicated to the memory was Ray’s joining. It was the magic miss- of Andrew: ‘Snow Falls on Derrycark’, ing piece that made the band gel in the which was actually written before the way it did. He brought an unabashed fire event, but was performed after in memory that meant we all rose to the occasion – the of both my father and my brother, and ingredients had been there, but it was the was as close as I could get to expressing mix of flint and steel that sparked it off. something of what I felt at the time. “Our roads diverged, and after a hiatus he “The second one was written for him, made beautiful music with Brian Tracey ‘Candle’. This song is about returning to in the Mickey Finns; but the two bands Ireland, where he was buried, to spend came together again as a supergroup in a our first birthday apart, together. I brought couple of wonderful moments of alchemy, with me a bottle of his favorite Scotch, as ‘Whiskey Asylum’ at the Dublin Irish Bowmore, and a Haitian rum, Barbancourt, Festival, and in Albany, and of course at as a sort of libation - he wasn’t a big drinker, Paddy Reilly’s. We mourn his passing 20 IAN Ohio “We’ve Always Been Green!” www.ianohio.com December 2016

The Glorious Heresies father Tony, who is obsessed with his By Lisa McInerney next-door neighbor. This neighbor Tim Duggan Books ISBN 978-0-8041- has seduced Ryan and has threatened 8906-4 2015 389 pp. to ruin his family. Then there is Georgie, a prosti- tute who is searching for her boy- friend, Robbie O’Donovan, the object of the murder. Jimmy Phelon, a local gang- ster and his mother, Mau- reen, round out the principal characters. The book Winner of the prestigious 2016 Bai- explores salvation, shame, and the ley’s Women’s Prize for Fiction, The legacy of Ireland’s twentieth century Glorious Heresies is the debut novel attitudes to sex and family. of Lisa McInerney, one of Ireland’s If your looking for a book that engaging new writers. This is a story possesses gritty realism, Lisa McIn- of a very modern Ireland with drug erney’s will provide it. I rate it a TOP dealers and prostitutes. It pushes the SHELF read. boundaries and plays as social com- *Terrence J. Kenneally is an attorney mentary. At times, it is irreverent and and owner of Terrence J. Kenneally & at other times laugh out loud funny. Associates Co. in Rocky River, Ohio. In fact, there was one point where I He defends insureds and insurance was almost in tears laughing. companies in insurance defense The story is about a messy murder, cases throughout the state of Ohio. which affects the lives of the five Mr. Kenneally received his Master’s misfit characters. It is set in Cork City Degree in Irish Literature from John and deals with people living on the Carroll University and teaches Irish fringe of Ireland’s post-crash society. History and Literature at Holy Name Ryan Cusack is a fifteen-year-old- High School. Mr. Kenneally is the drug dealer who desperately does President for the 2016-17 year at Holy not want to turn out like his alcoholic Name High School.

River Terrace Building 19111 Detroit Rd, Ste 200 Rocky River, OH 44115 440-333-8960 [email protected] December 2016 “We’ve Always Been Green!” www.ianohio.com 21

posted on FaceBook that he GAA games, festivals or fa- was looking for someone to mous Irish people. Anything do a crossword for the paper. I think others might find I sent him a message that I interesting. by Bob Carney could do it if he couldn’t find OhIAN: Linda also worked anyone else (I’m still here af- as secretary to the Grand ter so many years… lol!). Recorder of the Ohio Royal Answers on page Schools for thirty-one years OhIAN: It must be difficult and Select Masons. She is a Linda Fulton 26 and then two years at Christ to put a puzzle together; how past president of the Irish Burke the King in East Cleveland. long does it usually take? American Club – Eastside and I used to make crosswords Linda: I generally spend was selected as Member of the OhIAN: Linda, how did for my students to help them six to eight hours to research, Year in 2009. She is married to you become interested in study spelling and to increase write clues, and make the Jim Burke and has three chil- crossword puzzles? their vocabulary. crossword. Sometimes I run dren and four grandchildren. Linda: After earning a BS OhIAN: How did you come a theme for several months. Linda is a student of the Irish in education from Cleveland to create them for the Ohio I like to use travel related language and all things Irish State University, I taught Irish American News? themes, as well as current as her puzzles prove! second grade in the Mentor Linda: John O’Brien, Jr. had events, such as the Olympics, Mellifont Abbey footnote to the site, one of Gar- Out of the Mailbag, Comes Songs and Stories and time again. This is a Top Shelf Continued from page 9 ret Moore’s successors allowed Twenty Years a-Growing: Selection. William of Orange to use Mel- The Jeremiahs 2016. 10 tracks them by men brought in from lifont Abbey as his headquarters The Prodigals’ Ninth CD, “Brothers” I love getting swept away by foreign monasteries. during the Battle of the Boyne in Continued from page 19 a CD. I have more than a thou- By the beginning of the 15th 1690. The site of Mellifont Abbey ry of Thomas sand Irish music century, Mellifont Abbey had was finally abandoned in 1727. Tracey on drums, and Bulgarian MacDonagh, an CDs decorating become the proprietor of estates The ruins of the abbey are Trifon Dimitrov on bass. Irish patriot and and enriching totaling 48,000 acres. The ab- all that remain these days. On The music blends a funky and poet and a sign- my home, and bot had become a great feudal approaching the ruins of Mel- anarchic energy that is pure New er of Ireland’s listen to more lord, exercising civil, as well as lifont Abbey, the first building York with a passion for the tradi- proclamation of great music on ecclesiastical jurisdiction in his is a massive, castle-like structure. tional music of Ireland. The band Irish indepen- Spotify, Pan- domains and having a seat in This is all that remains of the has headlined major venues and dence. More dora (less and the English House of Lords, far original gate house of the old ab- festivals throughout the United than $5,000 less) and in links from their original mission as bey. Also still standing are four States, Canada, Germany and was raised for sent by bands envisioned by St. Malachy. of the arches of the octagonal Ireland. Brothers is available on the project via and their agents, After the Dissolution of the “Lavabo.” This once housed a iTunes, CD Baby, and all the usual Kickstarter. so getting swept Monasteries ordered in 1539 by central fountain for hand wash- outlets, and is a highly recom- Love songs, away happens King Henry VIII, the abbey and ing before meals and stands in mended, energetic and moving, history of course, insights and less and left often. But it does its lands came into the hands, the cloister opposite the entrance Top Shelf Selection. illuminations fill this wonderful happen. It did happen, with the successively, of the Townley, Bra- to the refectory. On the west side Thomas MacDonagh: Poet and work. I have listened to it a dozen wonderful self-titled CD by and bazon, and Moore families. Sir of the cloister are the founda- Patriot: His Life Told Through times or more, and will double called, The Jeremiahs. Garrett Moore, who lived at the tions of the lay brothers quarters. Music and Verse, Martin Butler that, at least. I do learn a new, and The Jeremiahs are composed of abbey in 1603, was a close friend It is an interesting place to visit and John Owens. 2016. 24 Tracks am sparked, to learn a new. Joe Gibney, vocals and whistle; of Hugh O’Neill, and it was to and reflect. The 100th Commemorations Filled with a myriad of gifted James Ryan on guitar and bou- Mellifont that Hugh O’Neill Today, there are six active Cis- of the 1916 Rising have been guests, like Aoife Clancy, Aoife zouki; and Jean Christophe Morel came to make his submission to tercian abbeys open and operat- extensive, varied and at times, Scott, Gregory Grene, Colm playing fiddle. Formed in 2012, the Lord Deputy Mountjoy at the ing in Ireland, and the remains humbling. We know the names O’Brien and more than 30 others, they are based in Dublin, Ireland, end of the Nine Years War. of 13 Cistercian abbeys, includ- of most of the he- but are readily touring the The result of the submission ing Mellifont. One of the active roes; the richness world. Winners of the 2015 was called the Treaty of Mellifont. monasteries is named Mellifont and variety of their Best Vocal & Instrumental Among the Treaty’s terms, O’Neil Abbey (Collon, Ireland), which stories has been Album Live Ireland; Male relinquished the Gaelic title of still carries on the religious tradi- raised, and begs Vocalist of the Year 2015 The O’Neill; O’Neill swore to be tion of its 1142 namesake. further research to Chicago Irish American loyal to the Crown; Brehon Law *J. Michael Finn is the Ohio know them, and News; winners of the 2015 was to be replaced with English State Historian for the Ancient ourselves. One of Christy Moore Songwriter law; English would become the Order of Hibernians and Divi- the richest I have Showcase; winners of the official language; and the Irish sion Historian for the Patrick found, has been 2013 Ballyshannon Folk Earls were no longer permitted Pearse Division in Columbus, Martin Butler and Festival Showcase. to support Gaelic Bards. Ohio. He is also Chairman of John Owen’s epic The Jeremiahs are a Top Hugh O’Neil later returned to the Catholic Record Society for work, “Thomas Shelf Selection of pure pas- Mellifont in 1607 to bid farewell the Diocese of Columbus, Ohio. MacDonagh: Poet The Jeremiahs Colin Gillen Photography sion and fun. Find The Jer- to his friend Garrett Moore be- He writes on Irish and Irish- and Patriot”, a 24 emiahs on Facebook or at fore setting out on his last voyage, American history; Ohio history track CD of songs, www.thejeremiahs.ie. For a which was to become known and Ohio Catholic history. You story, poetry and passion. the mix and pacing are gentle, yet taste, my favorite tracks Forgot- in history as the Flight of the may contact him at This CD is not a compilation of passionate, poetry in word song ten Son and The North Sea Holes Earls. And in another historical [email protected]. songs; it seamlessly tells the sto- and story that I will return to time are also on Youtube. 22 IAN Ohio “We’ve Always Been Green!” www.ianohio.com December 2016

Achill GAA: through Bórd Ná Nóg,which by Achill emigrants and local support football for boys be- contributors. Progress Must tween 6 and 18 years of age, to Approximately £4500 was Never Come the establishment of the ladies- spent on the development of to an End GAA club who cater for girls dressing rooms and extension from 9 years to adults, Achill of the pitch, which began in The Achill GAA Club was GAA Club has continued to be 1977 with grants from Roinn Na officially established and affili- progressive and inclusive. Gaeltachta and Bord na bPáirc ated to the Mayo County Board The oldest juvenile competi- of the GAA. in 1941. Although the area was tion in the county namely the Theofficial opening of Páirc an not new to Gaelic games, there Corn Acla has embedded a long Dáibhéidigh marked that devel- never existed a club as such to lasting tradition of gaelic games opment on Sunday May the 6th bring together the footballers of within our schools, community 1979 with the clash of Mayo and the numerous villages to play as and families as grandparents, Offaly senior teams. The field one team and represent the par- parents and current generations which had been known as Páirc the playing field with extensive 4th of May 2002. ish itself. The junior footballers can all claim to have participated an Mháilligh or as Alice’s Field levelling, re-surfacing, and seed- The Club today has 15 juvenile contested their first ever West in this prestigious competition. was officially named Páirc an ing carried out. Also completed boys and girls football teams; Mayo Championship in 1942 The decision to develop a Dáibhéidigh at the Achill GAA were the current stand, dug outs, weekly blitz games for boys and not only did they win that, club grounds at Achill Sound Annual Convention of 14th Janu- perimeter fencing and flood and girls aged 6 to 12; men’s they also proceeded to capture was taken at a club meeting on ary 1979. lights which were funded by a and ladies junior football teams; the County title. the 20th October 1958. The late The next phase of develop- grant from the Minister for the vibrant community involvement; Over the decades Achill GAA Martin McGinty of the Points, ment of Davitt Park was carried Gaeltacht at the time, Éamon dedicated focus on young person has evolved and has become a Achill Sound then contracting out in 2001 under the steward- ÓCuív. The opening of the newly development at a sporting and fulcrum at the centre of commu- in London, provided the actual ship of then Chairman Packie laid pitch and associated struc- social level, community gener- nity activity in Achill. From the purchase price and additional McGinty. This round of work tures wasmarked by a game ated 5 year strategic plan; over development of juvenile teams funds were provided generously included the redevelopment of between Mayo Vs Dublin on the Continued on page 27

13920 Triskett Road 13801 Triskett Road Cleveland OH 44111 Cleveland OH 44111 Phone (216) 251-3130 Phone (216) 251-4242 December 2016 “We’ve Always Been Green!” www.ianohio.com 23

Irish Contributions in a Modern World Kamm’s Corner anchor West Park Barber Answers on page 27 has opened a new location just nine doors down from the barbershop, called Premier Lounge. Its concept, like its creator, is uber cool, low key, hard working, but with a touch of class and elegance, not usually seen in the male barber service. Owner Patrick Burke: OhIAN: tell me how West Park Barber came about? Patrick: I worked at a barbershop in Cleveland out of barber school. That is where I met (coworker) Zach. I always wanted to have a shop in my neighborhood, West Park. Zach and I left the previous shop together to open West Park Barber Shop. West Park is the perfect community; they have been extremely supportive. You have two locations now – how are they set up? Patrick: We do have two locations now. They are located just nine doors apart. The original shop, (17008) has nine barbers and is walk-in only at a great price for the level of talent our barbers have. The second location is by appointment only with seven barbers currently. You have a salon too? Patrick: Yes, we do! We started to build such an amazing clientele at the barbershop that we wanted to offer the same excellent service to the women of West Park and the surrounding areas. The salon is a full- service salon and spa. What is the concept or goal behind the Lounge? How did it come about? Patrick: The Lounge was made because of our amazing following. We have custom- ers that travel to come see us. We wanted to offer a more comfortable environment, Continued on page 21

ACROSS DOWN 1 ______Friary, Co. Donegal 3 ______Monastery, Co. Kerry 2 Aghaboe _____, Co. Laois 5 ______Priory, Co. Kerry 4 ______Prioryk, Co. Galway 9 ______Abbey, Co. Dublin 5 ______Friary, Co. Donegal 10 ______Abbey, Co. Galway 6 _____Priory, Co. Kilkenny 13 ______Monastery, Co. Donegal 7 _____ Friary , Co. Clare 14 ______Abbey, Co. Kerry 8 ______Monastery, Co. Laois 16 Kilfane ______, Co. Kilkenny 11 _____Abbey, Co. Kildare 18 ______Priory, Co. Cork 12 ____ Abbey, Co. Clare 20 ______Priory, Co. Galway 15 ______Monastery, Co. Galway 24 Cavan _____, Co. Cavan 17 ______Abbey of St Mary, Co. Galway 27 ______Friary, Co. Kildare 19 ______Friary, Co. Cork 29 ______Friary, Co. Galway 21 ______Friary, Co. Cork 30 ______Abbey, Co. Carlow 22 ______Abbey, Co. Kerry 31 ______Abbey, Co. Cork 23 ______Abbey, Co. Clare 32 ______Monastery, Co. Dublin 25 Callan ______Friary, Co. Kilkenny 33 Great ______Priory, Co. Kildare 26 St, ______’_Abbey, Co. Carlow 34 ______Priory, Co. Cavan 28 ______Abbey, Co. Kilkenny 24 IAN Ohio “We’ve Always Been Green!” www.ianohio.com December 2016

Flanagan’s Wake is Back! Moran, 31st - New Years Eve w The Hilarious Interactive Irish the Music Men. 117 West Liberty Columbus Wake is Every Friday & Satur- Medina, 44256 Tara Hall day, 8pm starting January 6th @ www.sullysmedina.com. Traditional Irish music w Gen- Kennedy’s Theatre at Playhouse Hooley House Montrose eral Guinness Band & Friends Square, Downtown Cleveland. 2 - Joshua Roberts, 9 - Laid 2nd Friday 8:00 - 11:00pm. No Avon Lake 216-241-6000 or 866-546-1353 Back & Lazy, 16 - Cousin Vinny, Cover. Tara Hall 274 E. Innis Ave. Ahern Banquet Center& www.playhousesquare.org 23 - Joshua Roberts, 30 - Laid Columbus, 43207 614.444.5949. Ahern Banquet Center is book- Back & Lazy, 31 - NY Eve Hooley Traditional Irish ing weddings and special events. Cleveland Bash. 145 Montrose West Avenue Call Tony Ahern / Lucy Balser @ Copley, Oh 44321 (234) 466-0060 Social Dancing with 440-933-9500. 726 Avon Belden Cleveland ditional Irish Music. www.1funpub.com the Cleveland Rd, Avon Lake 44012. 4408 Detroit Road, 44113 www. Featuring: The Portersharks, www.aherncatering.com the-harp.com Ballinloch, Mossy Moran with Mentor Ceili Club Stone Mad Molly Moran, & The Kilroys, Hooley House The Cleveland Ceili Club Traditional Irish Session 1st Ceili Dancing – Set Dancing – 2 - Post Road, 16 - Billy Likes promotes the musical Brooklyn Sunday of ea/month, Happy Step Dancing. 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. A Soda, 17 - Abby Rodeo, 23 - Big traditions of Ireland by Hooley House! Hour Monday-Friday 4 to 7. 1306 special Irish menu will also be in Japan, 30 - Almost Famous, 31 - providing Opportunities for 2 - the Atraxxion, 9 - Cousin West 65th Street Cleveland 44102 available. $8 Advance, $10 Day NY Eve Hooley Bash. 7861 Reyn- adults to enjoy traditional Vinny, 23 - Old Skool, 30 - Disco 216-281-6500 of Show, kids 8 & under Free. olds Rd Mentor www.1funpub. Irish music and dance. Inferno, 31 - NY Eve Hooley Flat Iron Café 1148 Main Avenue, Cleveland, com (440) 942-6611. Set dancing lessons, Tuesdays Bash. 10310 Cascade Crossing, 2nd - Cats On Holiday, 9th - OH 44113. http://www.mu- 8-10 pm, St. Clarence Church, Brooklyn 216-362-7700. 1FunPub. Becky Boyd & Claudia Schieve, sicboxcle.com Olmsted Township North Olmsted com 16th - Donal O’Shaughnessy, Flannery’s Pub West Side Irish Am Club Wednesdays 7-9 pm, Irish Ameri- 23rd - Jim & Eroc Classic Rock 2nd – Claire Stuczynski 3rd 6th - Andy Cooney Dinner/ can Club - East Side Cincinnati Duo. 1114 Center St. Cleveland – Swap Meet, 9th – Bar Flies, Concert, 11th - Kid’s Christmas Ceili dancing lessons, Thursdays 44113 216.696.6968. www.flat- 10th – No Strangers Here, 16th & Party, 24 & 25 - closed, 31st - Club 7-9 pm, December 1, 8, 22 - West Side ironcafe.com 17th – Barleycorn, 23rd – Kristine “New Year’s Eve Party” Irish American Club. Irish Heritage Center Treehouse Jackson, 30th – Brent Kirby. 323 Great live music and food in For information, contact Ceili- 1st – Free Pub Music Night 4th - Kristine Jackson; 11th East Prospect, Cleveland 44115 The Pub every Friday. WSIA [email protected] 7 PM, 7th & 14th - Arm Chair - G.S. Harper; 18th - Craic Broth- 216.781.7782 Club 8559 Jennings Rd. 44138 travel to Ireland Book Library ers. 820 College Avenue, Cleve- www.flannerys.com www.wsia-club.org. 440-235- Ongoing Traditional 6:30-8:00, 15th – Mick & Friends land, 44113 www.treehousec- 5868. Irish Sessiúns - Free Music night / open mic, leveland.com Euclid Bring your instruments 19th – Irish Christmas in America PJ McIntyre’s Valley City and play along! - 7 PM Sandwiches & soup avail- 2nd - Mike & Brent, then Irish Am Club East Side Gandalf’s Unitarian Universalist Church of able pub before show doors Marys Lane, 3rd - Abby Normal, 2 - Mad Macs, 16 - Kevin Mc- 3rd - Prime Rib & Steak Night Fairlawn, 3300 Morewood Dr. 7:30 open @5 PM w/ Happy Hour, 7th - Monthly Pub Quiz w Mike Carthy after Club Ham & Turkey Music: Ed Feighan; 17th - Prime p,m Wednesdays. All skill levels 21st – Library w Tea & cookies D, 9th - Barleycorn, 16th - Craic Dinner. Rib & Steak Night Music: Dean welcome. 6:30-8:00, 22nd - Celtic Women Brothers, 17th - Carlos Jones, PUB: 7:30 – 10:30. IACES 22770 James; 31st - Prime Rib & Steak Bardic Circle @The Shamrock International Meeting 7:00 open 18th – Customer Appreciation Lake Shore Blvd. Euclid 44123. Night Music: New Year’s Eve Club of Columbus Beginner - friend- to everyone $5 at the door. Christmas Party Free food & 216.731.4003 w/ Sarena Tamboritza Orchestra. ly, intermediate level Irish session All month: Bring a toy for tots, drink specials, music by Marys www.eastsideirish.org Join us for Brunch EVERY SUN- meeting every other Thursdays 8:00 Learn more about your Irish Lane. Also Pints & Prints 12-5. DAY. Great food, atmosphere, pm - 11:00 pm family connections-- Tuesday 23rd - Spazmatics, 25th - Merry Findlay staff and fun. 6757 Center Road Briquette’s - 1st Saturday of the and Wednesday Genealogy w Christmas to All-open @7pm, Logan’s Irish Pub Valley City, 44280 www.gandalf- month, 2 -4 pm. Ashtabula on the our Detective by appointment 30th - Bluestone, 31st - NEW Trad Sessiún 3rd Wednesday. spub.com. Harbor only, free for members, $25 non- YEARS EVE PARTY- TBA: check 414 South Main Street, Findlay The Harp – 1st Friday of every members. Tickets already sell- our Facebook/Website for de- 45840 419.420.3602 www.logansi- Westlake month, 9pm. 4408 Detroit, Cleveland ing for the Merry Plough Boys tails. rishpubfindlay.com Hooley House Logan’s Irish Pub – 3rd Wednes- Concert February 1. Irish Don’t forget T-Shirt Tues: wear 2 - New Barleycorn, 3 – Brig- day of the month, 414 S. Main St., Heritage Center 3905 Eastern any PJs T-Shirt get 15% off bill! Lakewood id’s Cross Christmas Party 3pm, Findlay, 7:30 pm Avenue 513.533.0100. www.irish- Whiskey Wed: ½ off every whis- Plank Road Tavern 9 - the Other Brothers, 16 - Big in Oberlin’s Traditional Irish Session centerofcincinnati.com. key in the house. Thurs - Craft Open Sessiún Every Thursday Japan, 23 - Schoolgirl Crush, 30 - – 2nd Monday of the month 7 - 9 Slow Beer $2.50. PJ McIntyre’s is a 7 – 10. $3 Guinness and Jamieson. Sunset Strip, 31 - NY Eve Hooley Train Café, 55 East College St., Ober- Cleveland Local 10 Union establishment. 16719 Detroit Avenue, 44107 Bash. 24940 Sperry Dr Westlake lin. Informal all experience welcome: Home of the Celtic Supporter’s 44145. 1FunPub.com (440) 835- www.oberlin.net/~irishsession The Harp Club and the GAA. Book Parties Medina 2890 Plank Road – Every Thursday 7 – 2 - Irish Session, 3 - The Por- & Events in our Bridgie Ned’s Sully’s 10. All ages and experience welcome. ter Sharks, 7 - Lonesome Stars, Irish Parlor Party Room. 17119 2nd - Music Men, 3rd - Craw- Columbus 16719 Detroit Road, Lakewood, 9 - Kristine Jackson , 10 - Hurley, Lorain Road, 44111. www.pjm- ley & Hopper, 9th - Marys Lane, Shamrock Club Events 44107 Custy & Taylor, 14 - Chris & Tom cintyres.com 216-941-9311. 10th - New Barleycorn, 16th - Happy Hour every Friday Tara Hall -Traditional Irish mu- , 16 - Fior Gael, 17- Rachel Brown Music Box Supper Club Crawley & Hopper, 17th - Donal from 5-7pm! 60 W. Castle Rd. sic w General Guinness Band & 21 - Lonesome Stars, 23 - Walk- 18th - The Wren Boys Festival O’Shaughnessy, 23rd - Ray Fla- Columbus 43207 614-491-4449 Friends 2nd Friday 8:00 - 11:00pm. ing Cane, 28 - Chris & Tom, 30 2016 A Cleveland Celebration nagan, 24th & 25th Closed, 29th www.shamrockclubofcolumbus. 274 E. Innis Ave. Columbus, 43207 - Chris Allen, 31 - The Auld Pitch. of Christmas favorites and Tra- - Crawley & Hopper, 30th - Mossy com 614.444.5949. December 2016 “We’ve Always Been Green!” www.ianohio.com 25

streets and the mall to celebrate with Akron’s I am sorry now that one was returned; at that time, I did LeBron James and the Cavs team. For anyone not know it would be our last Christmas together. When that was able to attend the Parade, this will be my dad was Called Home, the Jim Thome bobblehead was a special memory for his or her lifetime. Im- buried with him. mediately after the Cav’s Parade, a Facebook The best Christmas gifts are the time and memories that page started, to plan a Parade for the Indians. you share with family and friends. In the fall, we were all so hopeful that an- Nollaig Shona; Athbhliain faoi she an is faoi mhaise faoi other parade for the Indians would be held. daoibh. Merry Christmas; Happy New Year to You. The Indians became the Windians this Post Season. Friends and family gathered at the Memories ballpark for games, watch parties, and at home or fun As we look back on this year, there are many memories establishments to cheer for the Tribe. for those of us living in Northeast Ohio. Cleveland became Unfortunately, this time, history was made by the Cubs Believeland in 2016. The rest of the country was able to see after 108 years, as they won the 7th game of the World Se- why Clevelanders are so proud of our hometown. ries. The Indians are still our team and we thank them for Cleveland was on the National and World stage in July. a great ride. Next year will hopefully be the year we win The City was the host of the Republican National Conven- our first World Series since 1948. tion, where the next President of the United States was As I look back on 2016, I am so grateful to have all these nominated. special memories with family and great friends. I am espe- Sr. Rita Petruziello of the Congregation of St. Joseph cially thankful for my dad, Jack Madigan, who shared his Every Thursday is Irish Night 7 – 10pm was the driving force of the event Circle the City with love of sports with me. He is the reason that I love sports Love held on Sunday before the convention started. That and have made such great friends playing softball, basket- Open Seisiún – Sunday, thousands of individuals gathered on the Hope ball, camogie and soccer. My dad’s spirit was with me this Traditional musicians of all ages welcome! Memorial Bridge holding hands in silence to start the week past year as his favorite Indian Jim Thome was inducted $ with the positive message of love and justice. In the West in the Indians Hall of Fame. 3 Guinness & Jameson on Thursday Nights Park neighborhood, many joined the Circle the City event Watching the Induction Ceremony, I remembered that Come enjoy our patio, on Rocky River Dr in front of St. Joseph Academy and the all my dad wanted for Christmas in 2001 was a Jim Thome Center of the Congregation of St. Joseph. bobblehead. That was my gift for him that year but my dad expanded wine selection and new dinner menu! During that week, I had the privilege of taking Keith could not wait. He bought himself the bobblehead - so that 16719 Detroit Ave. Lakewood, OH 44107 Carney, a Hibernian Brother from DC, and two media Christmas he had two! interns from Ireland to lunch at PJ McIntyre’s. Keith is the President of FedNet, which provides Internet coverage of the U.S. Congress. They all had nothing but good words and praise for the City of Cleveland. This year history was made by the Cleveland Cavaliers. The Cavs brought the NBA Championship Trophy to Cleveland for the first time. This was the cities first major sport Championship since 1964, when the Browns were Champs. More than 1 million people lined the downtown New Barbershop: A Cut Above Continued from page 19 more of a relaxing experience. The original shop has a men’s sports feel, whereas the new lounge has a vintage gentleman’s feel. We have some of Ohio’s Top Barbers, with award winning talent. What makes WP Barber so unique? Patrick: The most unique thing is the diversity the shops have. It’s amazing to see the diversity of the clientele and seeing everyone respect each other with the same common goal; to get a haircut in their barbershop that feels like home. My favorite part is meeting all the customers. It’s also amazing to see generations of family coming in together; a grandfather, his son and grandson sharing a family experi- ence at the shop weekly or monthly. Our customers really are like extended family. I think my least favorite is having to be the boss at times. There is a large staff at WPBS. In the 11 years I have been in WP nothing seems to sur- prise me now – haha. I have a lot of great memories in WP; my best has probably been cutting my grandfather, with Zach and his grandfather, for our very first haircuts in West Park. And also, giving my son his first haircut at the shop. My background is I am a very proud Irish/Italian Catho- lic boy, born and raised in the great WP area. I went to OLA and St. Eds before I fell into my career as a barber entrepre- neur. My next goal is my own barber and beauty college. 26 IAN Ohio “We’ve Always Been Green!” www.ianohio.com December 2016

wrote a moving example Army”. These are the Anti-Treaty prisoners’ on a diseased area. The slightest touch, a of graffiti: “Dulce et own words in their own handwriting; their fingertip, even the banging of the door, and Decorum est pro Patria own untainted evidence. that feeble skin would quiver and fall on the Mori. (Sotto voce) It One example of graffiti illustrates per- flagged floor”. is in me”. Little inter- fectly the challenging reality facing the Asked by the Kilmainham Jail Restoration pretation is required. Kilmainham Jail Restoration Society. We Society was there a way to save it, he replied Whether his thoughts must however bear in mind the extremely simply: “There was and there wasn’t”. In were of being killed in fragile nature of the wall artistry, especially consultation it was agreed to trace the im- Writing on the Wall action, or he was referring to executions in those early 1960s when Kilmainham was age, allow the original to fall, have the wall carried out by the Pro-Treaty Free State scarcely more than a ruin. Grace Plunkett’s surface treated, then replace the image with I loved spending time with Kilmainham Government during the Civil War (officially Madonna and Child was drawn on the back the tracing. Writing to me in the Kilmain- prisoners. Reading their written thoughts numbered at 77) M Lynch informed us sim- wall of an East Wing cell during her Civil ham Archives, the student artist in charge and also working with the words they ply that he was ready to die. His mind-set War imprisonment. Here is a description of this restoration, now Thomas Ryan RHA, themselves had written on the very prison is captured vividly on that cell wall, in his of the condition of Grace’s drawing by the explained: “We did the only thing that was walls that restrained them, right as historic own strangely poetic manner. The name M man chosen to attempt conservation: feasible. Of course the result is not the tenta- events were unfolding all around. This ex- Lynch, Galway, features on a Kilmainham “…… the coating of the wall, was in peril- tive pencil drawing of the prisoner”. perience encouraged in me a tremendous Civil War prisoner list. ous condition, the umpteen coats of 19th C Walls cannot talk. But Kilmainham walls awareness of these men and women, captive Other unidentified prisoners left a stony white, pink [and] blue wash had made a sort whisper! in Kilmainham, leaving us their legacy of In Memoriam Card to five of their com- of billowing skin that surfaced … like boils names and opinions as long as their pencil rades executed early in 1923. Standing in markings survived. their darkened cell one can read: “By their journey to Ireland to research There is a certain purity to these words comrades of the column RIP In memoriam the novel. and messages. I consider the 220 year old executed 8 January 1923”. A list of names “Irish Crossings is a voyage prison building an original ‘document’. follows: “T Brady, Leo Dowling, Sylvester of love, partings and new be- Some sections of this ‘document’ have Heaney, O’Reilly, L Sheehy”. These five ginnings in the time of the po- been badly damaged in the past, and sadly, men were court-martialled in Kilmainham tato famine. The novel is told materials used by the prisoners, thin pencil on 11 December 1922. The immediacy and in the time-honored tradition on shaky layers of plaster, will not endure intimate evidence of those times by people of an Irish storyteller. A great- permanently. directly involved transforms this portion of Toledo Irish grandmother on Christmas Eve reflects on These Kilmainham prisoners secured a Kilmainham prison wall into a breathing Irish Crossings: Caitlin & Paddy’s Story her beloved Gigi. their own place in history. Some War of document. by Terence O’Leary ~ Available at Ama- “Caitlin and Paddy’s compelling story is Independence figures are analysed more The prisoners still correct our records. zon & Kindle a realistic portrayal of the struggles in frequently than others who appear to have One woman amended existing Kilmainham This is a new novel by a Ireland during the time of famine and just vanished. Most students of the years prison lists by simply writing her name and Toledo man, Terry O’Leary. the heartbreak of the millions who were 1919-1921 immediately recognise Ernie address on a cell wall: Lizzie Fitzgerald, There have been other books forced to flee their native land; the young O’Malley’s name. Many are unaware that 28 Fishamble St Dublin. Her details are written about the Irish Potato lover’s journey across a beautiful coun- one of Ernie’s brothers was also held pris- self-evident. She was listed in error as E famine, but this one (Histori- try that is overwhelmed with sadness. oner by the British during the War of Inde- FitzPATRICK of that same address. Her cal fiction) is an easy read, They endure a harrowing winter crossing pendence. This brother added his name to pencilled name is evidence of her presence which is almost impossible through the treacherous North Atlantic, a list of colleagues written on a Kilmainham and true identity. Civil War women may to put down. Many Irish- but the slums of New York are not the cell wall – faded now, yet still clear enough have been written out of history until fairly Americans have no idea of the end of the rainbow they were promised. to read: Cecil Malley. Cecil wrote himself recently - their names on cell walls of Kil- history of their ancestors and the struggles Through their voyage together they learn into history. mainham were always confirmation of their they endured. Many of us do not realize the true meaning of the Irish saying, ‘It is in The prisoners narrate their own story with participation. the heart breaking decision of which family the shelter of each other that people live.’ In their scribbled graffiti. Records indicate that A fierce anger echoes from these walls. members would leave Ireland, while the my heart, I am a storyteller and the story of Kilmainham was re-opened by the British A sub-collection of writings exists which rest of the family stayed for a certain death the sorrows our ancestors endured during during the War of Independence towards can only be described as threatening. Scat- of starvation. The telling of Caitlin and the Great Hunger need to be honored and the end of 1920. Diarmuid O’Suileabhain, tered throughout, it contains a sense of Paddy’s travel to reach their ship gives a passed along to today’s generations.” another prison graffiti artist, wrote on a cell contemporaneous urgency and an honest description of the terrible living conditions “John O’Brien, Jr. Co- Publisher / Editor, wall 12 February 1921 that he was charged bitterness which suggests that any question of those Irish people affected by the famine. Ohio Irish American News wrote the fol- with “High Treason for having a revolver of lies, or any possible future interpretation, Please show your pride in your heritage lowing about Irish Crossings: ‘Throughout and ammo on January 21, 1921”. Records was absent from the writers’ minds. These by purchasing this book for yourself. After our often-tragic history, the stories of im- confirm this was the ‘Drumcondra Ambush’ statements are physical evidence of the hos- reading it, you might wish to purchase one migration emerge from our grandparents, or planned to be carried out on a police vehicle. tility, pain and disillusionment still seeping for your children and/or grandchildren. A theirs. Yet through it all, the one thing, the It failed due to the actions of an informer. through 93 years afterwards. lesson in their heritage would make a won- reason you and I are now alive and well in Three days later, on 15 February, teenaged These feelings appear baldly, they are not derful Christmas present. America or across the Irish Diaspora, is the Diarmuid further wrote on the wall of a top being repeated or interpreted by academic Here in the words of the author, is how enduring power of love. So it is with this floor cell that he was leaving Kilmainham textbooks. They simply exist in all their Irish Crossings came about; “Irish Crossings ‘Irish Crossings: Paddy and Caitlin.’ Their “for where I don’t know”. Prisoner transfers candour and power there on the very walls grew out of a conversation with my children perseverance is so complicated, their love started the day after the illustrious 14 Febru- that confined the authors. Examples are: and grandchildren at Christmastime two is timeless, and their story, is ours.’” ary escape of Ernie O’Malley, Frank Teeling “To hell with government”; “To hell with the years ago, when we talked about our an- Terence O’Leary was born in Chicago, Il- and Simon Donnelly: all remaining prison- Free State”; “May God Above send down a cestors. The Feeney’s, on my mother’s side, linois, but has spent his teenage and adult ers were transferred to Mountjoy. dove with teeth as sharp as razors, to cut were forced to flee Ballinasloe, Roscommon life in Northwest Ohio. Irish Crossings is Civil War (1922-1923) prisoners also re- the throats of the Free Staters”; and “May County, Ireland during the time of the Great his fourth novel. Terence O’Leary’s web site: vealed their state of mind. On a West Wing the Harp of old Ireland never want for a Hunger. Their crossing to America planted http://www.terenceoleary.com ground floor cell, M Lynch from Galway string while there’s a gut in the F(ree) S(tate) the seeds for this story and inspired my [email protected] December 2016 “We’ve Always Been Green!” www.ianohio.com 27

A Tale for Christmas ney. Well this here wee dote is Blarney’s Aren’t her spots just grand!” With pups howling and the joyful vil- Continued from page 19 cousin. Sure, isn’t the Widower Charlie a “Sure they are as lovely as the spots on lagers laughing over the events of the day, champion breeder of Killarney Spaniels!” Bridie McCracken’s nose,” reckoned Petey. young Petey wiped the last crumb of Christ- have the voice of an angel,” smiled Petey Paddy proudly explained. With tears in her eyes, Margaret embraced mas cake from his lips and began to sing: as he snapped the braces holding up his Cradling the pup in their Mammy the boys. “Now I have a wee pup to spoil “Near Bethlehem did shepherds keep their ragged trousers. Maeve’s best willow basket, Paddy, Petey with black puddin’ and buns.” flocks of lambs and feeding sheep.” “This ain’t a whisper of song that disap- and Blarney set out for the Widow Mar- “Good Christmas day to you Margaret!” pears like mist amid the sun. This here will garet’s cottage. With high color in their cried Father Colm as he knocked at the be a forever companion for the Widow cheeks, the twins stumbled through the Widow’s door. “Look at the surprise I have Margaret. Makes no difference if Widow widow’s door. for you!” Meg decides to marry Widower Charlie now. “Why lads, tis’ Christmas Day and I won’t Widow Meg and Widower Charlie walked Look in yonder barn!” exclaimed Paddy. scold you for the mud on your boots, but through the cottage door holding their own Nestled in a tuft of soft hay lay a new what do ye’ have in the basket. Sure, haven’t surprisingly familiar willow basket. spaniel pup with soft black fur and spots I been up since half six making my own “Oh sister, I would never leave you and the color of snow. warm currant buns?” our Christmas tea, but I have to tell you “The Holy Family preserve us! Blarney is Startled, the pup awakened, mewling like something. Widower Charlie is my dearest just a pup herself. This ain’t another Imag- a fox cub at the moon. Blarney started bark- friend, but he is also a Champion . . .” ined Conception now is it?” cried Petey. ing in retort and the twins started cheering. “Breeder of Killarney spaniels. Didn’t we “Y’daft buggar! That there spaniel came “Happy Christmas Widow Margaret! We get our own dear Blarney from him near from Killarney. Remember how we thought knew how much ye loved our Blarney, so three months now!” interrupted Paddy. it great to call our pup Blarney from Killar- we thought to bring ye a pup of yer own! “Missus, now ye’ have two spaniel pups, one sister, a widower, a priest, and a singin’ twin to grace this house with a solo rendition Coming Next Month of the Wexford Carol. Can we have a bit of Christmas cake to celebrate our Christmas January joy?” said Petey. Every Sunday: Irish Music Sundays Achill GAA Continued from page 22 @ PjMcIntyre’s 40 voluntary commit tee members and HAPPY Anniversary! Celebrating 10 years team mentors; full time Juvenile Sports Bringing you the movers, shakers and music makers Development Officer and Annual hosts of the Relay For Life. in our community each month. What will the proposed development cost? The development will be completed 7th – West Side IA Chili Cookoff in 2 phases. * Phase 1 comprises of the structure and ground floor, expected 17th– Speak Irish Cleveland New Session begins Cost: 300,000 * Phase 2 will be completion of the 1st floor, expected Cost: £100,000. Ahern Ca tering How will the development costs be Banquets, funded? Capital SportsGrant Funding We ddings, through the offices of the Minister for Clamba kes or Sport and Connacht GAA Council have Your Special E v ent offered grant To ny Ahe rn aid of £80,000. (£65k and £15k respec- tively). A further £100,000 has been fund- 440-933-7500 raised through donations from the Achill Fax : 440-933-7507 Community and businesses associated [email protected] with Achill both at home and abroad. Fi- ww w.Ahe rnCaterin g.com nally a loan to the amount of £125,000 has 726 Avon Belden Rd., Avon Lake, OH 44012 been sought by the club to allow comple- tion of phase 1 of the development. Grant Irish Mu aid funding and Live sic! further donationsmainly from the Achill Diaspora will be sought in order to raise the £100,000 required to complete Phase 2 of the development. How long will it take to complete the development? Works on the project com- Hours: Mon-Wed menced in August 2016 with completion 11am-Midnight 414 South Main St. of Phase 1 scheduled for April 2017. Thur-Sat Findlay, OH 45850 11am-2am Completion of Phase 2 is anticipated late Sun 10am-10pm 419-420-3602 2017 as required funds become available. www.LogansIrishPubFindlay.com Facebook.com/LogansIrishPubFindlay