Feeney FamilyThe Boston Irish Reporter hosted its third annual Boston Irish Honors on Fri., Oct. 19, at the Seaport Hotel on the South Boston waterfront. The event, which marked the 22nd anniversary of the BIR, drew more than 350 persons to the mid-day luncheon.

In his prepared remarks, publisher Ed Forry said, “In honoring these exemplary families and individuals who embody the finest qualities of our people, we seek to honor the memories of our ancestors who came here in bygone days when it was far from clear that we could make this place our home. How proud those early immigrants would be of their descendants, who have made Boston a welcoming place— not only for new waves of Irish entrepreneurs and workers, but for people from around the globe.

“Today’s honorees — the Muse family, the Feeney brothers and US Rep. Richard Neal—are agents of idealism and ingenuity who represent the best of the Boston Irish experience. They are devoted to a level of professionalism in their chosen fields that makes us proud to call them our own. Their commitment to public service and civic-minded philanthropy serve as models for us today and harken back to our own roots as a people who — even in times of need— dug deep to help others.”

The honorees each received an original artwork by Cork-born Dorchester artist Vincent Crotty, and an Irish auto registration plate bearing their family name and county of origin. Congressman Neal was introduced by Jack Connors, the Feeney Brothers by event MC Dick Flavin, and the Muse family by Bill Kennedy. The event was chaired by Dave Bresnahan, CEO of Lexington Insurance. An invocation by Rev. Tom Kennedy of Brookline included a prayer and moment of silence for the late Larry Reynolds, founder of the Boston chapter of Comhaltas.