Episode 2.29 (Bonnie and Mickey McNally/Linda Carney): Bridging East and West, Veterans and Newcomers: The United Nations of Irish Organizations

In season two of the "Finding Home" podcast series, Irish American Archives Society Executive Director Margaret Lynch interviews an array of Clevelanders with specialized knowledge and stories about the history of the Irish in Cleveland. This episode features an interview with Bonnie and Mickey McNally and Linda Carney. Bonnie and Mickey McNally and Linda Carney were all recruited to participate in the United Irish Societies, Cleveland's Parade Committee, by Linda's father, the late Bill Carney. Between them, the longtime friends, colleagues, and East Side IA members have been involved in Parade operations at every level--club delegate, deputy director, and executive director. They share their perspectives on how technology has changed the committee's work even as the committee structure creates a mentoring relationship between veterans and newcomers. The challenges change--Mickey McNally oversaw the rerouting of the Parade from Euclid Avenue to Superior, while Linda Carney has had to navigate the pandemic--but the hard work, good will, and fellowship remain a constant.