As James J. Braddock was rising out of boxing obscurity, and winning over the hearts of a Depression-ravaged nation, the legendary journalist Damon Runyan famously dubbed Braddock "Cinderella Man," because of the fairy tale nature of Braddock's comeback. That moniker was later used as the title of Jeremy Schaap's brilliant book about Braddock, and Ron Howard's wonderful movie … [Read more...] about Irish Jim
People
Eileen Collins
Eileen Collins doesn't harp. She doesn't fixate, but instead fixes. And though she may have high standards for herself and her work, she is not a believer in perfection. When asked about the influence of her parents on her career (her father, James, was a postal worker, strapped for cash, yet able to contribute to her Catholic school education), she'll respond calmly with "they … [Read more...] about Eileen Collins
Philly’s Rose
Sinead deRoiste was the first African-American Rose to compete in the Rose of Tralee competition in Ireland on August 24. A daughter of an Irish father and African-American mother, she proudly represented Philadelphia in the contest. Sinead is a niece of Adi Roche, the Irish founder of the Chernobyl Children Project. ♦ … [Read more...] about Philly’s Rose
CSI’s New Irishman
One of the most anticipated new television series to debut this fall is Crime Scene Investigation (CSI): New York, the third installment in the highly successful CSI franchise. Up-and-coming Irish-American actor Eddie Cahill stars in the new show, playing Detective Don Flack, an NYPD officer. Cahill told Irish America that his new job is "a dream come true." The show boasts a … [Read more...] about CSI’s New Irishman
Maureen O’Hara: “The Greatest Guy”
Her career spanned over seven decades and 60 movies. The camera loved her so much she become known as the Queen of Technicolor. John Wayne found in O'Hara not just the ideal leading lady but a pal. In fact, he called her "the greatest guy."Maureen O'Hara is in fine fettle despite having a slight cold. It's the day after St. Patrick's Day and she's ensconced in a suite at the … [Read more...] about Maureen O’Hara: “The Greatest Guy”