Thomas Fleming writes of the struggles and triumphs of an Irish-American family. ℘℘℘ My County Mayo-born grandfather, David Fleming, could not read or write. He had a brogue so thick I couldn't understand a word he said. But I knew one thing. He was Irish and proud of it. He had a favorite poem that he made me memorize and recite when I was six. It was called "Why I Named … [Read more...] about Irish Memories
Irish-American identity
Helen Hayes
First Lady of Theater
Dubbed the "First Lady of the Theater," Helen Hayes charmed audiences for 75 years, appearing in such theatrical productions as What Every Woman Knows, Victoria Regina, and The Glass Menagerie. In Hollywood she won Oscars for The Sin of Madelon Claudet (1931) and Airport (1970).
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On her stardom: My very lack of glamour has kept me a star.
To a reporter upon leaving … [Read more...] about Helen Hayes First Lady of Theater
Pat Riley
The Coach
When Pat Riley coached the New York Knicks basketball team, journalist Pete Hamill listed him in a Thanksgiving column as "one of the things New Yorkers should be grateful for." Riley now coaches the Miami Heat and is a motivational speaker. He is the author of The Winner Within.
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When I was about nine years old, my father told my brothers to take me down to Lincoln … [Read more...] about Pat RileyThe Coach
Michael Flatley
Lord of the Dance
Michael Flatley, star of Riverdance, Lord of the Dance, and Feet of Flames, has revolutionized Irish dance, making it relevant all over the world.
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I just always saw Irish dance differently. When I retired from competition I just knew the minute I was done that I would start trying new things that weren't really allowed in competitions. I actually felt very restricted in … [Read more...] about Michael FlatleyLord of the Dance
Edward Kennedy
The Senior Senator
If you ask his fellow senators – liberals or conservatives – who's on their list of the hardest-working and best senators, Edward Kennedy's name is always there. Throughout his tenure he has defended the poor, elderly, and handicapped of the country, and any significant legislation affecting these groups in the areas of education, jobs, housing, or healthcare is sure to have … [Read more...] about Edward KennedyThe Senior Senator