This magazine was created to bring you the stories of our people. And, as is often the case, the best stories are those where the mind and will win out over circumstances. One such story is of Michael Dowling, a man born into poverty whose commitment, focus and extraordinary hard work have brought him to the top in the health care field. The narrative of Dowling’s life raises … [Read more...] about The First Word: Making a Difference
The First Word: Making a Difference
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The First Word: Faugh A Ballagh
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“The past is never dead. It’s not even past.” – William Faulkner, from Requiem for a Nun (1950) Irish America’s impact on the history of America is well established, as the articles in this issue will attest. From titans of industry such as the silver king John Mackay, to the boxer John Morrissey, who was behind the fabled racecourse at Saratoga Springs, and on to … [Read more...] about The First Word: Faugh A Ballagh
The First Word: Sláinte! Good Health
“What’s exciting is that millions of families . . .will have access, some for the first time, to quality, affordable options in just a few months.” – Secretary of Health Kathleen Sebelius As the national debate on Obamacare takes center stage we thought it an opportune time to interview Secretary of Health Kathleen Sebelius, née Gilligan, and to focus on health issues … [Read more...] about The First Word: Sláinte! Good Health
The First Word: Grace and Healing
The First Word, by Patricia Harty. Our hearts weep for Boston. This most Irish of American cities has seen its share of tragedy, but when the bombings at the marathon turned a sporting celebration into a scene of destruction, it was a fresh horror that is hard to process. This city, where at least a quarter of the population are of Irish heritage, is one of the cornerstones … [Read more...] about The First Word: Grace and Healing
The First Word: The Emigrants’ Flame
The First Word, by Patricia Harty. “Cuimhnígí ar na daoine ar tháinig sibh.” (Remember the people from whom you came.) – Irish America Hall of Fame motto It’s that time of year when everyone is a little bit Irish, and a good time to reflect on the very special relationship between Ireland and Irish America. I remember as a young immigrant how wonderful it was to discover … [Read more...] about The First Word: The Emigrants’ Flame





