BOSTON (AP) - There were jokes galore at the annual St.
Patrick's Day political roast in South Boston. There also was a
defense of the special holiday some government workers will enjoy
while many private sector employees continue to labor.

Democratic state Sen. Jack Hart - who hosted Sunday's breakfast
- took a pause to remind the crowd of the historical significance
of Wednesday's holiday.

It marks the moment in 1776 when British troops evacuated from
facing a challenge from the Continental Army gathered in South
Boston.

Republicans feel no such special attachment. They're holding a
caucus and media availability in what will be an otherwise closed
Statehouse.

And Secretary of State William Galvin, a Democrat, will continue
to buck the trend by keeping his office open.