SBOL 1/17/2019

THE PRINT EDITION

THURSDAY, JANUARY 17, 2019

VOLUME XIX- ISSUE 74

State of the City: A Past Vision.

A Future Vision

by Rick Winterson

L

ast Tuesday, on January 15, Boston’s Mayor Martin J. Walsh delivered his 2018-2019 “State of the City” address. It was the fourth annual such presentation

by Walsh, in which the Mayor described two visions of his administration - the vision based upon past achievements, and the vision he and his team foresee in the City of Boston’s future.

As it has in years past, this event was held in Symphony Ha ll.

The Orchestra and First Balcony seats were filled by the estimated crowd of some 2,000 attendees. The evening had a definite festive tone to it; t he extensive program included many local performing artists, who began their performances at 6:15.

Mark Volpe, the Boston Sy mphony O r c h e s t r a ’s President and CEO delivered we lc om i n g re m a rk s .

A blessing called down by four inter- denominational clerics preceded the Mayor’s address.

The A merica n colors were presented and the Anthem sung.

Interestingly, the scriptural quotes used in the blessing included “an awesome cit y” and “a city of shepherds”. CEO Volpe spoke of how fitting it was to gather in Symphony Hall in its 119th year: “This Hall should be used by all,” he stated.

Promptly at 7:30, Mayor Walsh took the Symphony Hall stage. Quite fittingly, the Mayor began his remarks by saluting his friends and family members, concluding with the simple but meaningful sentiment, “I love you.” He warmly thanked the Continued on Page 3

Going, Going, Goodbye Gatey

It’s always sad to see a cherished building meet its demise. The Gate of Heaven School had educated and trained thousands of students for more advanced education, for their careers, and indeed, for their entire lives. There’s no question that the school had developed a personality of its own over the years, especially among those who occupied it so successfully. Part of its personality was its affectionate nickname of “Gatey”.

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 17, 2019 SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM

Let’s Make History in 2019

The Dorchester Heights Evacuation Day Monument.

W

e will begin this Story with a f lat statement: Whether you are new to South Boston or born and brought up here, please remember that South Boston is a place of history. It truly is! So let’s make history in 2019 Here’s one (very) key example of South Boston’s history: The first victory in our War for Independence, the Revolutionary War, took place on March 17, 1776.

The most important action in this victory took place on Dorchester Heights, which would become part of South Boston 28 years later.

On that date, 243 years ago, British forces, along with many “Loyalist” civilians and their families, evacuated Boston for good and left for Nova Scotia. Boston had been increasingly surrounded and cut off by colonial forces for some time, essentially since the Battles of Lexington and Concord, and of Bunker Hill. But the British refused to leave. It was a stalemate, until South Boston sprouted 59 cannons.

George Washington had been ordered by the Second Continental

Congress to drive the British from Boston. This involved 59 cannons brought overland from Fort Ticonderoga in upstate New York by (then) Major Henry Knox in late 1775 and early 1776. Fort Ti had been captured the previous May by Vermont’s Ethan Allen and his Green Mountain Boys, along with (believe it or not!) Benedict Arnold. Henry Knox, later to become a Major General and America’s first Secretary of War, was first known as “the bookseller from Boston”.

Those cannons were emplaced on Dorchester Heights (now part of South Boston) by General John Thomas on the night of March 4, 1776. On the morning of March 5, the British in Boston awoke and immediately realized they had to evacuate, or the colonial’s cannons would sink every British ship in Boston Harbor.

They evacuated two weeks later, on the 17th. This was the first colonial victory; General George Washington received a gold medal for it. That key fortified point in South Boston is now called Thomas Park. A monument was erected there 116 years ago.

One wonders if Washington ever held that gold medal in his hands during the miserable winter of 1778 in Valley Forge, trying to take courage from his first victory on Evacuation Day in Boston.

Do you need more historical facts?

Well, 200 years ago, the oldest Catholic Church in Boston – St. Augustine Chapel – was built here in South Boston. Paul Revere, who commanded Castle Island for a while, died in 1818. The South Boston Yacht Club was founded 150 years ago last year

The statue of Admiral Farragut overlooks Fort Independence.

Wintry sun silhouettes South Boston’s World War II (1868). The Boston Army Base, now the Innovation & Design Building, was completed a century ago in 1918.

And the World War I Armistice was declared on November 11, 1918 – 100 years and two months ago.

In January of 1919, the Great Molasses Flood happened in the North End; the so-called Spanish flu epidemic peaked in early 1919. The Boston Police went on strike later in September, 1919. And most poignantly of all, the remains of South Boston’s 103 World War I combat casualties, including Medal of Honor recipient Mickey Perkins, were finally interred for good.

So what can South Boston do to “Make History” this year?

The South Boston Allied War Veterans Council (the AWVC) is planning for our 2019 St. Patrick’s/ Evacuation Day Parade. Please support the Parade, and all four of the “Mayor of South Boston” campaigns, which are raising funds for the Parade. It’s the largest such Parade in New England; it is planned, arranged, and financed locally, here in South Boston. Let’s make the Parade the largest (and best) ever this year. In other words, let’s make history with the 2019 Parade!

South Boston Online recommends that we begin a project to erect a World War I Memorial here. We have World War II, Korean, Vietnam, and even Civil War Memorials. Let’s complete our story with a proper memorial to South Boston’s heroism in World War I. Join the South Boston Historical Society. Were you aware that History Professor Bob Allison (Suffolk U.), the President of the Society, is assembling a presentation on the 1919 Boston Police strike? He would like some volunteers from South Boston to work on this with him.

Take part in the activities of the South Boston Citizens’ Association.

Join the Castle Island Association (the original CIA). Then, tour Castle Island and Fort Independence with your friends and family. Join the Curley Center at the foot of L Street. When it’s cold and stormy outside, read about South Boston’s history from the books on the South Boston shelf in our Branch Library.

There is no doubt that South Boston is a place where history happens. Really happens.

What are your ideas about adding to our history during 2019?

The Vietnam Conflict Memorial in Medal of Honor Park.

SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM THURSDAY, JANUARY 17, 2019

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Continued from Page 1

Walsh City of Boston employees for their past and future services, and then recognized Boston’s recent cha mpionship spor ts te a ms a nd t heir at h lete s.

Walsh then touched brief ly but effectively on a number of key points about our City: He referred to diversity, including LGBTQ residents and groups in Boston. He was specific in terms of people of color – Steven Tom k i n s (Su f fol k C ou nt y Sheriff ), Rachel Rollins (Suffolk D.A.), William Gross (BPD Commissioner), and Ayanna Pressley (U.S. Representative from Boston).

Wa lsh a lso announced plans for a K ing Memorial on Boston Common.

The Mayor went on to speak of affordable housing – one of the topics that the media had predicted he would address. He also spoke of addiction. Progress is being made, but there’s a long way to go. The economic wellbeing of Boston isn’t an unmixed blessing, but at least Boston has a firm policy for resolving t hese issues.

The Mayor also spoke of infrastructure,

Mayor Walsh thanks his supporters. listing schools, libraries, and roadways as the benef iciaries of B o s t o n’s rebuilding progra ms.

He concluded those remarks with a ringing statement, “Instead of building wa lls, let’s build bridges!”

– the reference is obvious.

The undoubted economic strength of Boston was also a major topic of the Mayor. He mentioned two key factoids in support of this claim. Boston’s current unemployment f igure is a low, low 2.4% - the lowest ever recorded. In addition, Boston is now the best place in the world to find a job –

The Boston City Singers perform.

The Josiah Quincy School Orchestras entertains.

yes, that’s “Best in the world”!

T he Mayor closed his address on a (very) high note.

He made several loudly voiced statements about the Cit y’s progress, concluding each one with “Look to Boston”. As he narrated these points, the audience came to its feet in a spontaneous standing ovation, applauding each a ntiphona l “Look to Boston.

Look to

Boston. Look to Boston … “ It was quite a stem-winding set of closing statements, which Mayor Walsh concluded precisely at 8 p.m. Afterward, the Mayor mingled with his associates at the foot of the Symphony Hall stage.

S out h B o s ton On l i ne strongly suggests that you make it as point to read Mayor Walsh’s address on your own. Boston is certainly the place to be.

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 17, 2019 SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM

Amrhein’s To Host WBNA’s “Winter Snow Ball” January 26

by Rick Winterson

Y

ou have often heard that request, “Please save the date!”. Well, that certainly applies to Saturday evening, January 26, because that night, Amrhein’s will host the WBNA’s first “Winter Snow Ball”.

The WBNA (the West Broadway Neighborhood Association) is using their “Winter Snow Ball” as a fundraising event, primarily to support green spaces in the entire, highly varied neighborhood around the intersection of Dorchester Avenue and West Broadway.

Let’s take a look at the word “Ball”, as a word for an elegant dance.

The W BNA advises you to “Dust off your dancing shoes”. That’s right – this will be a real dance. The WBNA has obtained the services of highly skilled DJ Taylor from DJs of Boston. He’ll present dance music from Woodstock till now – and this is 2019, the year of the Woodstock revival.

Another way to look at the word “Ball”, the W BNA promises you that you’ll have a “Ball” at their “Winter Snow Ball”. This will be a dress-up

Amrhein’s will become “Dance Central” on Saturday evening, January 26, when the WBNA holds its very first “Winter Snow Ball”.

event. The WBNA asks you to come Dressed to Impress. To be clear, the “Winter Snow Ball” isn’t a costume party, and it isn’t a “formal – tuxedo optional” event. Just come “Dressed to Impress”. Or “Express”. But not “Compress” or “Depress” or “Mess”. So, after you dust off your dancing shoes, put a coat of polish on them (and then put them back on – we’re gonna to go dancing on Saturday, the 26th !!!).

The “Winter Snow Ball” takes place in Amrhein’s dining area. If you haven’t been there

before, be sure to take a quick glance over the bar on the other side. There’s a massive, original woodcar ving on view from Germany of some 130 years ago.

Amrhein’s itself was founded in 1890, making it by far the longest serving restaurant in South Boston. And the beat goes on! Amrhein’s will be serving hors d’oeuvres and food platters.

Between sets, enjoy their cash bar.

The W BNA will cap off their “Winter Snow Ball” with a live auction that will really be fun to take part in. Co-chairs Deb

Wrighton-Wex and Jen Ledet, along with the WBNA Board, are marshalling unforgettable auction items. Right now, they’re working on some bedazzling possibilities: a noted local chef who’ll prepare supper for your guests at your home. He owns a food truck. Can you imagine the oohs-and-aahs when that pulls up to your door? The in-depth collection of art at the Harvard Museum is a national treasure, available locally. Bid on that for a private tour for you and five friends. And the Board is working on getting an authentic Boston pub crawl as a yet another notable auction item, which will also be a barrel of fun. And as a true South Boston “first”, Deb WrightonWex will be auctioning off her own hula lessons. That’s a really unique live auction item; hula dancing is a skill Deb learned in Hawaii and “Hawaii East” (a.k.a.

Santa Barbara). The dance is $35 before the event at www. wbnasouthboston.org; tickets will be $40 at the door. You just can’t beat that with a stick. See you at Amrhein’s on the 26th!

Teens - Become a South Boston Community Health Center Youth Ambassador!

The South Boston Community Health Center is pleased to announce that spring semester Youth Ambassadors meetings will begin on Tuesday January 22, 2019 @ 5:30 p.m. The location of the meetings is 386 West Broadway – 2nd floor (SBCHC Dental and Eye Care building).

Youth ages 12 – 15 are encouraged to attend the meeting to learn more about joining Youth Ambassadors, a group of teens that are engaged in a wide variety of activities designed to promote a healthy and more fulfilling life. Since 2005, Youth Ambassadors have participated in community service projects, health related trainings, art-based activities and so much more. It is a great way for teens to meet new people and get involved in their community!

Meetings are held every Tuesday evening beginning at 5:30 p.m. Applications to become a Youth Ambassador are being accepted January 22 – 29, 2019.

If you would like more information about the Youth Ambassadors program please contact Linda Doran at the South Boston Community Health Center (617-464-7463)

SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM THURSDAY, JANUARY 17, 2019

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Legislature, Governor Act to Reduce Burden on Boating Community Legislature passes, Governor Signs legislation to limit increases in DCR lease costs

T

he State Legislature recent ly enacted legislation aimed to curb the rising cost of leases for boating clubs in the Commonwea lt h.

Fol low ing years of back and forth between boating-club members and the Department of Conservation about the appropriate price of a lease, the Commonwealth stepped in to cap the rising costs at 3% a year.

Boating clubs across the state began to be issued lease agreements in 2015 with 20% to 30% increases in the price, prompting concerns about long term viability and threatening their mission to enhance access to

South Boston Yacht Club the Commonwealth’s waterways, provide boating education, and make capital improvements on public land. In a November 2017 meeting organized by then State Rep Collins and his colleagues on Beacon Hill, many members pointed out that their clubs were moved by the state through eminent domain at some point.

While the term “Yacht Club” may conjure images of mega-boats with elite members, the reality of boating clubs in Massachusetts is that most members are retired or on fixed income, and the clubs often provide community benefits that the DCR would otherwise incur, including park cleanup,

tree maintenance, and water management. One recent DCR proposal of 5% annual increases, compounding annually, would have limited membership to only the more wealthy, and undercut the clubs ability to perform its programs that benefit the wider community.

“Simply put, this was the right thing to do,” said Senator Nick Collins. “We have many boating clubs in the First Suffolk District, from South Boston, to Savin Hill, to Port Norfolk and beyond, and these clubs provide immense public benefit and are excellent stewards of the public land on which they sit. I was glad to work with my colleagues to find a middle ground that works for everyone involved.”

The Governor signed the bill on January 7th, after Senator Collins and the legislature had pushed for the provision to be

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 17, 2019 SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM

Jenn Menjin’s “Mayor of South Boston” Party

Compass On The Bay Events Compass on the Bay Assisted Living and Memory Support Community 1380 Columbia Road, South Boston

Kenny Morrell Performs at Compass on the Bay January 18, 2019, 1:00 pm Kenny Morrell is sure to impress you with his incredible keyboard skills.

Richie Bern Entertains at Compass on the Bay January 20, 2019, 2:30 pm Richie Bern, who will wow you with his guitar and vocals!

Silent Movie Showing at Compass on the Bay January 29, 2019, 3:00 pm Richard Hughes will present a silent movie with piano accompaniment.

Patrick Hoye Entertains at Compass on the Bay January 30, 2019, 10:30 am Irish musician Patrick Hoye, strolling singer and guitarist. Patrick hails from Mullingar Ireland and came to Boston in 1974 to pursue a degree at Berklee College of Music. He has traveled the world performing with Ireland’s Joe Dolan band. Please join us for this festive performance!

Jenn Menjin, one of four candidates for 2019 “Mayor of South Boston”, held her first fundraising party – to support the Parade this year – at Seapoint. Among the guests were George and Nancy, her father and mother; George and Patrick, her brothers; DJ Uncle Al Gavaghan; and many, many of Jenn’s friends. The party was a success – over 100 showed up to support Jenn and the Parade.

SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM THURSDAY, JANUARY 17, 2019

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Bobby Diggins Is Running for “Mayor of South Boston”

by Rick Winterson

I

t’s no secret that the St. Patrick’s/ Evacuation Day Parade will be here in exactly two months – the Parade will step off promptly at 1 p.m. from the square at Broadway Station on Sunday afternoon, March 17.

It’s also no secret that our Parade, unlike any other of its size, is privately financed and sponsored by South Boston’s Allied War Veterans Council (Dave Falvey commanding). It will be privately financed once again this Year of 2019.

One of the key fundraisers is the ongoing campaign for “Mayor of South Boston”. South Boston Online has already profiled three Mayoral candidates in our prior issues. We are now pleased to profile the fourth and final candidate – South Boston’s Bobby Diggins. Bobby is a highenergy, enthusiastic candidate, who has already held one fundraiser at Seapoint.

As a reminder, Bobby will hold his second fundraiser tomorrow evening (Friday, January 18, 7 ‘til midnight) at the VFW Post 6536 on Ellery Street,

Bobby Diggins holds the “Mayor of South Boston” banner he designed and had made, which says it all. which is directly in back of Andrew Square’s Red Line “T” Station. The Post not only offers some off-street parking (please get there early), it also has a newly renovated party area – for a modest admission, you can enjoy raffles, the Post’s cash bar, dancing to DJ Jimmy Donovan, free pizza, and chicken-broccoli-ziti from Porto Bello.

You just can’t beat that kind of Southie “time” with a stick – see you there!

And Bobby is already at work on more fundraisers in January and February. During our interview, he discussed several possibilities: J.J. Foley’s on Thursday, January 24, a possible Valentine Dance, and perhaps even an unusual “time” at Whitey’s Croke Park Inn. Details on these events to follow as we receive them. Stay tuned.

South Boston Online asked Bobby why he stepped up to run for

Mayor of South Boston Candidate Haley Dillon kicks off her first Event with a Sparkle

2019 “Mayor of South Boston”. Well, he’s a long-term resident – 30+ years – now living in the Foley Apartments on H Street at and Columbia Road.

He answered, “It’s all about memories, especially of veterans.” He brought up the recently deceased Mickey Roache of fond memory and the memories of Gold Star Mothers. He is dedicating his Parade-related efforts to his own family members, as well as to (as Bobby says) “South Boston, the community I love.”

We’ll pass on a quote from Bobby about the South Boston Parade tradition.

During this interview, he said, “Loyalty means the most to me personally – It’s next to Godliness.” Well spoken.

He also suggested we repeat that the St. Patrick’s/Evacuation Day Parade is privately (and locally) funded. Here in South Boston, we do the Parade ourselves, and just look at the results. As another reminder, when you make out your check or money order, make it out to the “South Boston Allied War Veterans Council”, the group who are responsible for the Parade.Thanks from Bobby Diggins.

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 17, 2019 SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM

South Boston Catholic Academy News Honoring St. Elizabeth Ann Seaton

O

n Friday, January 4, 2019 the students, faculty, staff and families of South Boston Catholic Academy attended a Mass at St. Brigid Church in honor of the Feast Day of St. Elizabeth Ann Seaton. Father Tom Olson, our Parochial Vicar, was the celebrant.

The readings at this Mass focused on how we are all given special and different talents by God and that we should use them to help others as well as ourselves to help bring us closer to God. St. Elizabeth Ann Seaton (August 28, 1774 – January 4, 1821) was the first native-born citizen of the United States to be canonized by the Roman Catholic Church on September 14, 1975

and was certainly someone who used her God given talents. She was the founder of the Sister of Charity and Catholic Schools in the United States. She established the first Catholic girls’ school in the nation in Emmitsburg, Maryland, where she also founded the first American congregation of religious sisters, the Sisters of Charity, of

which the sisters in the St. Brigid Parish are a part of and taught in the first Catholic High School in South Boston, Nazareth High School, that later became St. Brigid School and is now South Boston Catholic Academy. Our Student Council and South Boston Catholic Academy Children’s Choir, did a wonderful job participating at

this Mass. We are now accepting applications online for the 20192020 School Year. Prospective families are welcome to join us at our Winter Open House on January 30, 2019 from 9AM to 1PM or to set up a tour by emailing Jamie Brown, Assistant Principal at j.brown@sbcatholicacademy. org or phone 617-268-2326.

SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM THURSDAY, JANUARY 17, 2019

By: Tara Kerrigan Hayes

Chickadee, the Place to Be

W

hen you enter Chickadee you are immediately aware that you’re embarking on an experience. The space is classy and modern, with design elements that celebrate it’s home in the heart of Boston’s Innovation and Design building.

T he v ib e in this Mediterranean inspired restaurant is both fun and hospitable, with a greeting that makes you feel not only welcome, but appreciated. The bar draws a communal crowd of fellow foodies who seek a glimpse of the kitchen, while watching the cocktail masters work their magic.

Their creative cocktail program Is a testament to the passion and experience of Beverage Director/Owner Ted Kilpatrick, who has worked at some of the best restaurants in Boston, (L’Espalier, No. 9 Park) as well as New York (o ya, Covina). A show stopper is the English Partridge - almost a play on a Manhattan - with a softness influenced by unexpected ingredients like earl grey tea and pear eau de vie.

They also offer a selection of local, craft beers and ciders as well as a thoughtfully curated wine list (ask about the story behind their Peyrassol Rose).

Life long New England resident and Chef/Owner John daSilva (also Of Barbara Lynch’s Flagship No. 9 Park) offers a

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The silky puree is juxtaposed by a crisp large mushroom, (which fans out like a feathered plumehence the “hen”), roasted ‘til the tips are a golden brown creating an exciting contrast of textures.

Delicious but hearty, this is an appetizer to be shared unless you’ve brought your appetite. Garnished with nigella seed and chive.

Sea Scallops

seasonal menu highlighting ingredients from local farms, markets, and producers. The menu, which could be described as rustic, clean f lavors elevated by understated sophisticated techniques, is approachable but with some names of dishes that evoked perplexed expressions by neighboring diners. So in the spirit of the industrious chickadee itself, I’ve come to decipher some menu items and lionize others.

Smoked Sea Trout Dip

The title of “dip” does this appetizer a disservice, eliciting images of elusive bits of trout lost in a heavy sea of cheese, when in fact it’s a generous yet elegantly prepared portion of fresh, smoky Trout complimented by a vibrant horseradish sauce

accompa nied by cr u nchy homemade salt + vinegar rye chips.

Chickpea Panisse Fries

Panisse fries have been likened to “hummus sticks” or “healthier fries” but these enchanting batons of f lavor are beyond compare.

Lightly fried, there’s a pleasant crisp on the exterior while the inside is warm, savory and smooth. Served with a delicious Calabrian chili aioli offering just the right touch of heat, they are a perfect prelude to any entrée.

Crispy Hen of the Woods

You’ll find no hen here. No fowl of any kind. Described as Potato-Almond Skordalia, which is essentially a Greek potato and garlic dip, the server better described it as, “basically the best mashed potatoes you’ll ever have”.

To put it simply, three large scallops are perfectly seared with a decadent and delicious honey nut squash puree so divine, it almost outshines the protein.

Accompanied by a knife skill showcasing combo of apple and leek, this is a perfectly composed dish with slight vadouvan flavors.

The only criticism that could be mustered here, is that the honey nut squash is unfortunately not offered by the tubful to bathe in.

Featherbrook Farm Chicken As a diner that tends to default to beef or seafood, this dish was a game changer. Moist on the inside with crispy golden skin, the chicken is perfectly cooked and impeccably plated with corn, trumpet royale, burnt honey and black truffle resulting in an earthy, fragrant dish that sings to every taste bud. In a word: magic.

Perfect for a date night, night out with friends, or even to dine alone at the bar, Chickadee is hatching nothing but all good things.

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 17, 2019 SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM

Mayor Walsh, Boston EMS Graduate Class of 19 EMTS

M

ayor Martin J. Walsh together with Boston EMS today celebrated the graduation of 19 Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) recruits in a graduation ceremony at Faneuil Hall held before family, friends and colleagues. Among those addressing the graduates were Boston Public Health Commission (BPHC) Executive Director Monica Valdes Lupi, JD, MPH, and Boston EMS Chief Jim Hooley. This graduating class will be assigned to 9-1-1 ambulances, strengthening the city’s emergency medical services (EMS).

In his FY19 budget, Mayor Walsh prioritized funding for 20 additional EMTs, increasing the number of budgeted fulltime EMS providers from 375 to 395 for the City of Boston.

The increased number of EMTs will allow for two more frontline ambulances to be staffed, included a second one in East Boston.

“Becoming an EMT is

more than a career -- it’s a noble commitment to serve our community, and I want to congratulate all of today’s graduates on joining the ranks of a proud and historic first responder family,” said Mayor Walsh. “Our EMTs and paramedics are saviors on some of the worst days of people’s lives, and also make possible some of our city’s best days and most beloved traditions, from First Night to Marathon Monday. I’m incredibly proud to welcome this

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new class of recruits and thank them for their service to our City.”

The graduation ceremony formally acknowledges 19 recruits’ successful completion of a rigorous EMT post-hire training program.

The recruits, already state-certified EMTs prior to hire, completed an additional 27 weeks of classroom and field training, to better prepare them to work as EMTs in Boston.

Recruits were trained in a variety of emergency situations, including life-threatening emergencies, transportation accidents, recovery services, hazardous materials exposure, human trafficking cases and mass casualty incidents.

“It is with deep admiration and respect that we welcome our new EMT graduates to the EMS community,” said Chief of Health and Human Services Marty Martinez. “Each of these new recruits are answering one of the highest calls to public service so anyone in Boston can receive the quality care in their time of most need. I congratulate this new class of recruits and I thank them for their service to the City of Boston.”

This recruit class responded to nearly 3,000 9-1-1 calls during their training including emergency incidents related to illnesses, injuries, cardiac incidents, motor vehicle accidents, childbirths, shootings, stabbings, overdoses and more. With guidance from seasoned EMT field training officers, recruits are not only prepared to care for patients, regardless of the circumstance, they also now understand the level of care, clinical

excellence and professionalism expected of Boston EMS EMTs. “Congratulations to these new recruits for completing this rigorous training and joining our exemplary EMT core. The city faces unique challenges today and we are grateful to have these brave individuals choose to serve our Boston with the highest level of care and professionalism,” said Monica Valdes Lupi, Executive Director of BPHC. As one of the busiest municipal EMS providers in New England, Boston EMS responds to over 125,000 emergency medical incidents per year. As a bureau of the Boston Public Health Commission (BPHC), Boston EMS is committed to serving Boston’s residents through clinical excellence, emergency planning and preparedness, and communit y outreach.

Chief of Department, Jim Hooley stated, “Boston EMS sees great value in investing in education and professional development for our newly hired EMTs. Completion of academy is only the beginning. As a career EMS clinician, we must continue to learn and evolve along with the field of emergency medical services.”

Building on Mayor Walsh’s investments in Boston EMS, the FY19 budget includes the replacement of eight ambulances to support EMTs. This commitment

by Mayor Walsh will help ensure a high-level of service for all neighborhoods, and aims to have ambulances arrive on scene for Priority 1 calls within six minutes of the initial call. Additionally, the Mayor in FY18 launched the Boston EMS Community Assistance Team that use data to change the way EMTs are deployed to areas including the Boston Common and Recovery Road, improving patient outcomes and ambulance utilization. In its first year alone, the Community Assistance Teams have freed up more ambulances, and resulted in more than 400 referrals to shelters and recovery services.

SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM THURSDAY, JANUARY 17, 2019

New England International Auto Show and the Boston RV and Camping Expo at BCEC to Impact Local Traffic on January 17th -21st 2019; Local Parking Limited The New England International Auto Show will be taking place from Thursday, January 17th through Monday, January 21st along with the the Boston RV & Camping Expo (January 19th-21st) at the BCEC. These are large regional events, and most attendees are expected to drive.

Traffic in the area is expected to be heaviest between 8:00AM and 4:00PM Saturday -Monday, January 19th -21st.

Attendees, as well as local employees working in and around the South Boston Waterfront, are urged to make alternative plans for their commute that day. Use of public transit is strongly encouraged. If you must drive, please allow additional time for your commute.

Parking in the South Lot of the BCEC is expected to fill quickly for this event. Additional parking will be offered at off-site lots in the South Boston Waterfront area. Signs will direct attendees to off-site parking.

Shuttles to the BCEC will be provided for those parking off-site. Police details will be in place to help direct traffic and pedestrians.

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Watch For Mistakes Next Sunday

by Rick Winterson

There’s no truly accurate way of predicting how the AFC Title Playoff between the New England Patriots and the Kansas City Chiefs will go next Sunday evening. A very large percentage of NFL Playoff games are decided by whichever team makes more major mistakes – interceptions, unrecovered fumbles, or badly blown plays – even if there’s only one more mistake by the eventual losers. By the way, that’s also been true for most of the past 52 Super Bowls.

But there’s no predicting mistakes, any more than anyone can predict the future. So let’s look at other factors. The Pats have not been a good “AWAY” team this year, and the Chiefs have a somewhat better regular season record (12-4 vs. 11-5). And overall, the Chiefs played a more difficult schedule during their 2018 regular season. But the Patriots have the Belichick-Brady factor.

No matter what, the Pats will have a difficult evening at Arrowhead Stadium, so let’s see if the numbers will offer Patriots fans any comfort.

Over the 2018 16-game regular season, the Pats scored 436 points and the Chiefs, 565. Hey, that’s a difference of only eight points a game!

On defense, there’s a different tune being played. The Pats allowed only325 points; the Chiefs, 421. Hey again! That’s a difference (in the Pats favor) of 96, or six points a game. The teams are within less than a single field goal of being “equally matched by the numbers”. The Pat’s defense will be a good match for the Chief ’s offense.

What’s the upshot of all this? It’s simple – the team that makes the first major mistake next Sunday evening will LOSE! PREDICTION: After an exciting, breath-taking, heart-stopping three quarters, the Patriots will win, 31 to 28, late in the fourth.

SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM THURSDAY, JANUARY 17, 2019 THE PRINT EDITION

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