Genealogy: Another Update

If you've been following this blog, then you know that I have taken an interest in the history of my family.  Recently, I have been researching whether I could possibly be related to the McMahons of wrestling fame.  My personal investigation into the matter has (thus far), produced this, along with this update. 

I'm happy to report that my research has been progressing well.  In case you missed it, here's a brief summary of what I'm talking about. 

"A few months back, I was doing some research concerning my family tree, and relatives (I was able to trace my parents back through multiple generations).  In the course of my exploration of this topic, I happened upon a relation (on my father's side of the family) that is linked to a family of McMahons...realizing this, I have started to wonder whether I could be at least distantly related to the McMahon wrestling dynasty".  

Moments ago, I took it upon myself to continue my examination of this issue.  Having done that, I think I may have happened upon a breakthrough.  It's a little hard to explain this, but here goes. 

As the result of my searches on Ancestry.com, I have found that my grandfather on my father's side (George Boland Sr., 1903-1962) was married to a Margaret M Curtin (1904-1979).  This woman was the great-granddaughter of a Mary McMahon, from County Clare, Ireland.  Through additional research, I have discovered that the McMahon wrestling family has its roots in the same area of Ireland that Mary was from.  This points to at least a reasonable possibility of a link between my family and the McMahons of WWE. 

OK, this is where the plot thickens a bit, as there is one more mystery yet to be unraveled.  Vincent Kennedy McMahon is the great-grandson of a Roderick James McMahon (1848-1922).  It is this man who immigrated from Ireland, thus starting the American side of the McMahon family.  My Ancestry.com research hits a (pay) wall in the generations before Mary McMahon; I do not know who her parents were, and if she had any siblings.  This unknown has proven to be the final part of the puzzle. 

You see, if Mary was (a) sister to Roderick James, then the evidence shows that I am indeed related to the wrestling McMahons.  At the moment, I have no idea whether this is the case.  However, if true, this would be an astounding coincidence (as I am a huge fan of WWE).  To quote Joey Styles, my reaction would be something like "oh my God"!

Obviously, this is a subject that I will continue to resolutely study.  I'll let you know what the outcome of my investigation is. 

"Until next time....if there IS a next time"  - Don Pardo, former announcer for WNBC-TV

Random Rant: Documentary Film Review

Right now, I'm watching "Uprising: Hip-Hop And The LA Riots", a documentary exploring violence and unrest in that city.  In my review, I find it necessary to explain the background of the film.  

On April 29, 1992, Los Angeles exploded in violence.  African-American residents of the area, angered by the acquittal of policemen in an excessive force case, destroyed whole sections of Los Angeles in acts fueled by rage (see the Rodney King incident).  Things got so bad that, in addition to the California National Guard, the US Army had to be dispatched to quell the violence.  When it was all over five days later, two thousand three hundred and eighty three people had been injured, and another sixty-three people killed (in addition, estimates of property damage were over one billion dollars).  

"Uprising" is a very interesting film that explores the roots of the LA riots, and what role hip-hop music played in them.  With the caveat that I haven't yet watched the entire movie, here are my thoughts on said film.  

This movie suggests that in 1992, African-American citizens of Los Angeles were tired of talking to the police about "law and order".  Black Angelenos, feeling that they were the victims of injustice, wanted action.  This, the film implies, was the main reason behind the rioting, which is hinted at as being justified.  What the documentary fails to explore is the opposing "devil's advocate" argument; it presents the events as being a one-way street, so to speak.  

I believe that to truly understand an issue, you must look at it from all angles, not just one.  To this end, I find that "Uprising" implies that whites, and only whites, were responsible for the violence of 1992.  This is an argument that I disagree with.  Yes, whites were to blame for much of what happened in the streets of Los Angeles; that is a sickening fact.  However, African-Americans are not without fault in this case.  Indeed, many blacks set fires, committed brazen acts of violence, and destroyed property (ask Korean shopkeepers about this; they were forced to take up arms in defense of their businesses).  

Now, it stands to reason that African-Americans are as much at fault for the events of 1992 as whites are, or anyone else.  However, "Uprising" doesn't discuss this point of view at all.  This being the case, I cannot give the documentary a totally glowing review.  

On the "Boland Movie Scale" of one to five stars, "Uprising: Hip-Hop And The LA Riots" receives a "captivating" three and three-quarter stars (thanks to long-time movie critic Susan Granger for the inspiration behind said scale).  The film is an interesting perspective on history, and what can happen when anger gets out of control.

A Graduation Speech

I can't claim to be a frequent speechwriter, or by any means a literary expert.  However, I'd like to think I've learned a little about life in my thirty-seven years on this planet.  As such, allow me to share the speech that I would give to the Class of 2019, if I was tasked with giving such a speech.  

(Speech Follows)

First off, I need to congratulate all of you on your success thus far.  Although it may not seem like it, you have spent four long years within the halls of your school.  In that time, you have faced many different types of challenges, but risen to meet all of them.  Now, a new challenge awaits you; that of creating the future.  

It's traditional at graduation ceremonies to give advice; I'm going to continue that tradition.  To that end, let me talk to you about life, dreams, and challenges.  

An old television commercial once said that "on the road of life, there are passengers and there are drivers".  In this case, you must be a driver, and take command of your own fate.  You see, nobody can drive down the road for you; nobody can sail the ship which you are in charge of.  It's up to you to live your own life, and to forge your own identity.  

I have to tell you that my life hasn't been an easy one, or simple.  I've had to fight my way through many tough times.  That's part of life; it's a bit like a prize fight, in that every day, a new round begins.  In my experience, I have found that "it's not about the dog in the fight; it's about the fight in the dog".  Life's not always about who can jump higher, or run faster.  More often, it's about who has more passion, and who has the most heart.  If you live your life with boldness and passion, you will find it to be a life well-lived, as will others.  I will suggest that you remember this as one of life's little lessons.  

Here's another important lesson that I have learned.  A great man once said that you must not "have any belief whatsoever in how others judge you; for your greatness will silence them all".  This is something that I very much believe in, down to my very core, I believe in myself.  However, it doesn't matter that I believe in my own abilities; what means more is that you believe in yours.  If someone tells you that you aren't good enough, ignore them! If they say something can't be done, prove them wrong!  Don't be afraid to dream big, or to pursue your dreams with reckless abandon.  For it is the dreamers and the thinkers that ultimately change the world.  

On the subject of life lessons, I have one more piece of advice for you.  One of my English teachers used to take inspiration from rock music.  In class, he would often recite lyrics from well-known songs, and then open discussion on the song's meaning.  On one occasion, I recall that I complained to this teacher about a poor grade that I had received.  The teacher, one Mr. Daley, said something that has stuck with me to this day; "in the immortal words of Mick Jagger, you can't always get what you want".  I believe this to be one of life's indisputable truths.  Sometimes, things won't go your way; sometimes, you will fail.  Nevertheless, don't give in, or ever give up! Instead, learn from your mistakes, and turn your failures into fuel for your successes.  Even when things seem to be at their worst, your greatest victory may be just around the corner.  

In my final words to you, the Class of 2019, I will say this.  Many people like to talk about the future as if it's some far-off moment.  What they don't understand is that the future is now.  Whether you realize it or not, you are and will be the architects of that future.  The choices that you make today will shape tomorrow.  There is but one thing that is certain in life; that is change.  The time has come for you, the members of the Class of 2019, to change the world.  

"The future is what you make it; make it a good one!" -- "Back To The Future Part III"   

What's The Deal With The Stop & Shop Strike?

As you may be aware, the management of "Stop & Shop" (one of the largest supermarkets on the East Coast) has been in an ongoing contract dispute with its employees.  On April 11, the local unions that represent some thirty-one thousand workers walked off the job, demanding a better deal from the company.  Here's a quick summary of the issues behind the dispute, and what has been offered. 

• Issue #1: Wages and Salaries.  

The unions claim that the company's proposed contract cuts employee pay, and replaces raises with annual bonuses(1).  In addition, the workers allege that Stop & Shop's offer eliminates certain weekend benefits.

  What's The Fact, Jack?

According to the proposal detailed at the company web site(2), all associates will receive increases in pay.  Additionally, Stop & Shop says that there will be no changes to weekend benefits.  

• Issue #2: Pension and Retirement Plans.  

Striking employees state that, under the current proposal, the company's share of pension monies would be greatly reduced (or eliminated altogether)(1).  The unions have requested that management agree to a twenty percent increase in such benefits.  

  What's The Fact, Jack?

Stop & Shop has agreed to the union's request regarding pension plans(2).  Part-time employees will see their benefits maintained at the current funding level.  

• Issue #3: Health Care.  

The unions claim that under the current proposal, their members would be forced to pay more money for standard healthcare benefits(1).  In addition, the workers allege that the company plans to end coverage for spouses of employees.  

  What's The Fact, Jack?

According to the company's proposal, employees will pay a little more for their healthcare than they presently do(2).  However, this cost will remain far less than the national average for worker heath plans.  Regarding coverage for spouses, some of the presently offered programs will no longer be available.

As you can see, many of the claims made by the striking unions are false, or at least incorrect in their logic.  The workers say that Stop & Shop's offer is unfair, and "unreasonable"(1).  However, looking at the facts in front of me, I believe the company's offer to be very generous.  

The question presenting itself is, to quote an old labor song, "which side are you on".  Do you support the striking workers, or are you on the side of company management? Personally, I will probably choose to cross the picket lines; some may decide to do differently, which is their right.  As is usually the case, there are two sides to this dispute.  The proper choice is a decision that is up to you, the individual shopper.  Choose wisely, my friends!

1. “Negotiations Update.” UFCW 919, United Food & Commercial Workers Union, 16 Apr. 2019, http://www.ufcw919.org/negotiations-update/.

2. “Stop & Shop Final Offer - UFCW Local 371.” Stop & Shop Stores, 28 Mar. 2019.

Today's "Raw Thoughts": My Take On John Oliver

For years, commentators have seen fit to criticize the "universe" of pro wrestling.  In the 1980s, the industry was blasted on "The Morton Downey Jr. Show" (though not by the host; he enjoyed wrestling events).  The 90s saw Phil Mushnick (a writer for the "New York Post") take pot shots at both WWE and WCW.  Then, in the 2000s, a group called the "Parents Television Council" sought to remove pro wrestling from TV altogether (what's worse, they ALMOST succeeded). 

As such, the comments of one John Oliver are not exactly "breaking news".  If you haven't heard, Mr. Oliver has taken it upon himself to call out the WWE.  On his HBO show "Last Week Tonight", the commentator advanced what I call "the Bob Costas argument".  Let me explain this in detail. 

Like Mr. Costas, Oliver contends that the men and women of wrestling are forced to take dangerous risks, and that this should not be permitted.  The commentator is clearly misinformed regarding this issue.  It is true that wrestlers risk severe injury from the moves that they perform.  However, these are calculated risks (as opposed to non-sensible risks), and performed of the wrestler's own free will.  Nobody (Vince McMahon included) is physically forcing the stars of WWE to "get in the ring"; they do it because they want to. 

This being the case, I wonder who Mr. Oliver (or anyone, for that matter) is to make individual choices for others? If certain people were incapable of making decisions for themselves, then I might understand his point of view.  However, realizing that most wrestlers can and do make their own choices, those decisions aren't Oliver's call.

The other part of the debate centers on certain actions and attitudes expressed on wrestling programming.  In the past, WWE has (to some extent) objectified women, as well as had a perceived bias against African-Americans and Hispanics (see Chavo Guerrero Jr.'s "Kerwin White" storyline).  Some observers (myself included) see this as objectionable behavior, or at least events that young children should not see.  Nevertheless, the question of what a child is permitted (or not permitted) to watch is best handled by that child's parents.  Again, who is Mr. Oliver to decide this?

Now, let's compare "Monday Night Raw" to some other popular television programs.  Most of the time, there's a difference between what happens on the show and "real life".  The longtime fan (such as myself) realizes that there is a scripted aspect to wrestling programming.  By that, I mean that the individual men and women of the business portray different characters.  Some of these characters are likeable; others are not.  Some characters say and do outrageously unacceptable things; others take the so-called "high road".  This is no different from most other television shows (for example, HBO's own "Game of Thrones", or NBC's "The Blacklist").  And quite frankly, if you are of the opinion that pro wrestling is completely "real", then much like a non-used mid-carder, I "have nothing for you". 

Knowing this, let me quote Vince McMahon in saying that pro wrestling isn't everyone's "cup of tea".  However, nobody is holding you at gunpoint, and forcing you to watch WWE events.  If you don't like the current product or show, you have the right to switch stations, or even turn the whole TV off.  Nevertheless, there are many people who get a great deal of enjoyment out of watching others get smacked around.  I believe that it is inappropriate for Mr. Oliver (who might best be described as a man who thinks he's "holier-than-thou") to tell such people what they can and cannot watch.  There is, indeed, some content that could be deemed "offensive" to certain viewers.  To this, I can only say that "viewer discretion is advised". 

A "Visionary" Idea (AKA "A Matty B Production")

A couple of days ago, I found myself watching one of the older episodes of "The Twilight Zone".  This particular feature was "The Obsolete Man"; a horrifying vision of what the future could look like.  Allow me to briefly describe what takes place in this tale. 

As the story begins, we see a man entering what seems to be a large hall or chamber.  Series creator and narrator Rod Serling intones,

"You walk into this room at your own risk, because it leads to the future, not a future that will be, but one that might be.  This is not a new world; it is simply an extension of what began in the old one.  It has patterned itself after every dictator who has ever planted the ripping imprint of a boot on the pages of history since the beginning of time.  It has refinements, technological advances, and a more sophisticated approach to the destruction of human freedom.  But like every one of the super-states that preceded it, it has one iron rule: logic is an enemy and truth is a menace.  

This is Mr. Romney Wordsworth, in his last forty-eight hours on Earth. He's a citizen of the State, but will soon have to be eliminated, because he's built out of flesh and because he has a mind. Mr. Romney Wordsworth, who will draw his last breaths in 'The Twilight Zone".   

"Mr. Wordsworth" has been accused by "the State" of being "obsolete"; that is, having no purpose or meaning to his existence.  Our protagonist testifies that he is a librarian; this does not sit well with his judge, an imposing figure called "the Chancellor".  We learn that "the State" has eliminated books; as such, librarians are regarded as not being needed.  As Wordsworth continues to testify, we find out that he believes in God.  Again, "the Chancellor" disapproves of this, as "the State" has "proven" that "there is no God".  

Subsequently, "Mr. Wordsworth" is convicted of being obsolete, and sentenced to death.  As is the apparent custom, our protagonist is allowed to choose how he will be executed, and at what time of day.  Wordsworth prefers to die at the hands of a personal assassin; this person will be the only one that knows of the exact manner of Wordsworth's death.  "The Chancellor" agrees to this stipulation, along with one other small request; that the execution of the now-condemned Wordsworth be nationally televised.  In the interest of not spoiling the ending, I will leave the remaining part of the story incomplete.  

The plot of this story has become embedded in my subconscious, and inspired me to creativity.  I find this to be something that is, perhaps, worth showing to today's audiences.  As such, I am considering modernizing the script somewhat, and showing it as a short film (perhaps on community television, or other such outlets)

When I speak of "modernizing the script", I mean that I would like to tinker with a few details, but keep the basic arc of the story.  For example, I might make the first name of "Mr. Wordsworth" to be "Ron" instead of "Romney".  I may also change Wordsworth's occupation to that of a "writer and humorist" (one that, nevertheless, expresses what he believes to be basic truths).  These actions would be taken with the intent of bringing the story up to date, and keeping it relevant for a modern audience. 

As explained previously, I believe that "The Obsolete Man" teaches us a lesson that is still very important.  In the words of Rod Serling, "any state, any entity, any ideology which fails to recognize the worth, the dignity, the rights of Man...that state is obsolete".  It is this tale of morality, and its teachings, that I hope to present to local viewers.  

Is the general public ready to witness "my epic vision"? Brace yourself, because a "Matty B Production" may be coming your way soon!

A Genealogy Update

Several months ago, I wrote this as one of my early entries for this, your favorite blog.  The article partially dealt with the history of my family, and my curiosity as to whether I might be related to professional wrestling royalty.  I am happy to report that I have an update regarding this matter. 

As I explained in the particular blog post,

"A few months back, I was doing some research concerning my family tree, and relatives (I was able to trace my parents back through multiple generations).  In the course of my exploration of this topic, I happened upon a relation (on my father's side of the family) that is linked to a family of McMahons...realizing this, I have started to wonder whether I could be at least distantly related to the McMahon wrestling dynasty".  

Tonight, I happened to be randomly pondering events in the "universe" of pro wrestling.  As a result of my deliberations, I began to research the origins of the current product.  I have unearthed some apparent facts that should prove to be VERY interesting.  Allow me, if you will, to clarify these issues.  

In summary:

• My last name is Boland; the family name is descended from the O'Bolands of County Clare, Ireland.  
• The name O'Boland evolved from the name "Boru", as in Brian Boru, an ancient High King of Ireland.  
• Brian Boru is a common ancestor of the Boland and McMahon families.  
• Two different Irish McMahon families exist; one that traces its roots to Clare (the "Thormond" McMahons), and another that has its ancestry in County Monaghan (the "Airgialla" McMahons).  
• The former group of McMahons are not related to the Monaghan-based McMahons(1)(2).  

Now, here's where things get even MORE interesting.  To wit:

• The McMahon wrestling family can be traced back to Roderick McMahon (1848-1922), a hotel owner and immigrant from County Galway.  
• Roderick and wife Elizabeth McMahon (1846-1936) produced four children, including Roderick James "Jess" McMahon.  It is this McMahon who (with others) founded the "Capital Wrestling Corporation", a forerunner to today's World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE).    
• Jess and wife Rose E. (Davis) McMahon (1891-1997) had three children, including Vincent J. McMahon (1914-1984).   
• Vincent J. was the father of Vincent Kennedy McMahon (today's Vince McMahon)(1)(2)(3)(4). 

OK, follow me so far? To further clarify this, we must delve into a bit of Irish history, and geography.  

• Galway is part of the Province of Connacht.  
• Clare is part of a different territory, the Province of Munster.  Nevertheless;
• Clare itself was once part of Connacht; in the tenth century, internal strife in Connacht caused Clare to be annexed to Munster (in a previous incarnation as the "Kingdom of Munster").  
• Upon its annexation, Clare was (for the time) renamed as Thomond(2).  

As I previously pointed out,

"According to my Aunt Eileen, my father's side of the family definitely has relatives with (the name of McMahon)".  

Let's break this down for a moment.  My research shows that the wrestling McMahons are descended from the Thomond-based (read: Clare-based) line.  This is the part of the family that can be traced back to Brian Boru, which I am ninety-nine point five percent certain is ALSO MY ANCESTOR (1).  As such, it is at least reasonable to suggest that I am indeed related to the McMahons of pro wrestling.  

(takes the above in for a moment)

Of course, this is an "oh my God" moment for me (thank you Joey Styles), as I have followed pro wrestling with interest seemingly all of my life.  

Now, might I be incorrect in my reasoning and assumptions? Perhaps there is something I haven't considered that proves my theory wrong? Clearly, the answer to this question is yes.  However, and "in any event" (thanks Vince), I believe that the evidence before me is astounding, to say the least.  

I'm going to keep my eye on this; I will attempt to confirm the above information through the Gaelic-American Club of Fairfield, CT.  The organization is a great resource for those who wish to learn about the Irish, or even just gulp down a "pint" or two.  

Anyways, that's "all the news that's fit to print" from the desk of Matty B.  Further updates on this matter will be forthcoming.  

"Until next time....if there IS a next time"  - Don Pardo, former announcer for WNBC-TV

1.  Personal knowledge.  

2.  Various online sources.  

3.  "WWE: Superstars > Hall Of Fame > Vince Mcmahon > Bio". WWE.Com, 2017, http://www.wwe.com/superstars/halloffame/vincemcmahon/bio/.  Accessed 2 Apr 2019.

4.  Irish Examiner. "The Fighting Irish And The WWE". 2013, http://irishexaminer.com/lifestyle/features/the-fighting-irish-and-the-wwe-243608.html. Accessed 2 Apr 2019.