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Thursday, March 24, 2016
“I’m a great believer in luck, and I find the harder I work, the more luck I have.” (Thomas Jefferson)
Happy Easter!
Volume XVIII - Issue 12
Evacuation Day remembered at Dorchester Heights
A three-mile march St. Patrick’s Day parade was celebratory
Thomas Germain, 8, walks back to his classmates after joining Boston City Councilor Michael Flaherty at the microphone to discuss Evacuation Day. By SUSAN DOUCET
When Boston City Councilor Michael Flaherty asked for a student volunteer to step up to the microphone in front of the Dorchester Heights monument Thursday morning, Thomas Germain’s hand
shot in the air. His explanation of what Evacuation Day means was succinct. In one sentence, the third grade student at St. Peter’s Academy triumphantly announced that it was
The Boston Police Gaelic Column warms up ahead of the Allied War Veteran’s Council’s St. Patrick’s Day parade on Sunday, March 20. This group was one of about 150 units that participated in the annual parade. Find photos of the parade on Pages 3, 4 and 5 of this issue. (Photo by Rick Winterson)
Continued on Pages 12 and 13
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Thursday, March 24, 2016
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Letter to the editor Former mayor Flynn to receive “Make a Difference” award
Parade was a success
This year’s St. Patrick’s Day parade was great. Thanks to everyone who made it all possible. The issue of the length of the parade is indeed yesterday’s news, as Boston’s Mayor Marty Walsh wisely put it. A big thank you goes out to Southie’s BFF (attorney) Chester Darling. There were few arrests and mostly it was a great day for families, young children and everyone else in between to enjoy some Southie Pride. The sky’s started off sunny and then turned quite cloudy, but there was no dent in the cheers from all who sat or stood through the whole beautiful celebration. As far as the temps, near 29 degrees, just another typical parade day in South Boston. I must say I missed the sight of the Cornerstone. It is gone but hardly forgotten. Finally, another reminder for us to remember all the hard work that Wacko Hurley did for this neighborhood over the decades. Like the Cornerstone, gone but never forgotten. SAL GIARRATANI East Boston
Elizabeth Seton Academy in Dorchester will honor former Boston Mayor Raymond Flynn with the “Make a Difference” Award at its annual Spring Gala on April 24 at Granite Links Golf Club in Quincy. The award “honors individuals who stand with us and sustain our mission and vision,” according to Gregory O’Neill, ESA director of advancement. “We honor those who, through extraordinary measure, service and commitment,
have contributed to the success of the school and the community to which we belong. Elizabeth Seton Academy is proud to recognize the Honorable Raymond Flynn in 2016 for his tireless and unwavering service to the city of Boston, the Catholic Church, and the young women of ESA.” Flynn was elected mayor from 1984-1993, and was appointed by President Bill Clinton as U.S. Ambassador to the Holy See at the Vatican, 1993-1997.
For information about the gala, call O’Neill at 617-296-1087, ext. 32, email him at goneill@ esaboston.com, or visit the website at esaboston.com/support/springgala/. Elizabeth Seton Academy, the only all-girls Catholic high school in Boston, is an independent, urban school that provides a nurturing community which embraces religious, cultural, and ethnic diversity for learners from 25 communities in the greater Boston area.
Tara Murphy named Youth of the Year by Boys & Girls Club Tara Murphy of South Boston won the Youth of the Year Award for the Boys and Girls Clubs of Boston, and will be competing against all of the Massachusetts clubs for a statewide honor in June. Murphy, a member of the Edgerley Family South Boston Club, received her award at the BCGB’s St. Patrick’s Day luncheon March 5 at the Westin Hotel in Boston where she gave a speech and was then honored by Mayor Marty Walsh, State Sen. Linda Dorcena-Forry, Boston City Councilor-at-large Michael Flaherty, and State Rep. Nick Collins. The award is given to members who
“embody the values of leadership service; academic excellence; and healthy lifestyles.” “I grew up at the Boys and Girls Club, so doing all of the amazing things they offered me there felt natural,’” said Murphy, who is a senior at Elizabeth Seton Academy, inDorchester. “It was a huge honor receiving the Youth of the Year award at the South Boston Boys and Girls Club and an even bigger honor moving on and representing all Boys and Girls Clubs of Boston. It is an amazing feeling, knowing all that I have done has really made a difference.” Murphy was in Dallas, Texas
Tara Murphy poses with State Rep. Nick Collins and State Sen. Linda Dorcena-Forry on March 5.
March 14 through 17 at the Boys and Girls Clubs of America Keystone Conference where more than 2500 teens from 157 cities and five countries gathered to develop leadership skills.
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700 East Broadway South Boston, MA 02127 617-269-5550 Jeanne Rooney Owner/Publisher Mail@SouthBostonOnline.com Susan Doucet Editor Sdoucet@SouthBostonOnline.com
Kevin Devlin Sports writer Mail@SouthBostonOnline.com
Rick Winterson Senior editor Rick@sSouthBostonOnline.com
Christine Mazzeo Photographer Mail@SouthBostonOnline.com
South Boston Online print edition is an independent newspaper published weekly by SouthBostonOnline, Inc. We welcome submissions and reserve the right to edit any and all submissions for publication. All photos, stories, artwork and advertisments are the property of SouthBostonOnline, Inc., and may not be reproduced without permission. Although we have a thorough editing process, we assume no liability for reporting or typographical errors that may appear. Editorials are collaborative opinions of the publisher and editors. The print edition of South Boston Online is published every Thursday.
South Boston Online welcomes letters to the editor on topics of public interest. To be considered for publication, letters must be: no more than 500 words, refrain from extreme personal attacks, and include a name, address and contact information for verification purposes. Only the writer’s name will be used. While anonymous letters are appreciated, they will not be printed due to credibility issues. However, a writer may make a direct request to the editor to withhold a name if the writer feels that a published letter would result in direct physical harm. Writers should refrain from making incorrect statements and are expected to
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St. Patrick’s Day parade in pictures After some well-reported controversy over its route, the 2016 St. Patrick’s and Evacuation Day parade stepped off on its usual three-mile path at 1 p.m. Sunday. The weather smiled on the first day
of spring, albeit chillingly at the end. There was no snow, unlike last year. Unconfirmed word has it that the parade set a new record of more 150 participating units; the crowd was estimated at well over 500,000.
The Mounted State Police Patrol prepare for the start of the parade. (Photo by Rick Winterson)
Parade high points included the participation of the officers and crew of the USS McFaul (DDG-74), the many and varied band units, and a generally orderly crowd. The crowd dispersed quickly afterward; just
five arrests were made; citations for public drinking numbered about 300 – similar to prior years. Parade Day was a fitting close to a very full fortnight of celebrations. -Rick Winterson
The 2016 Parade Chief Marshal Bill Thomas steps off behind Commander Bill Desmond, who is driving. (Photo by Rick Winterson)
WBA Featherweight Champion Javier Fortuna, a guest of Peter Welch’s Gym, during the parade. (Photo by Rick Winterson) Grand Ten Distilling is one of South Boston’s newer small businesses. (Photo by Rick Winterson)
Spring snowfall underwhelms city
PHOTOS CONTINUE ON PAGES 4 and 5
This photo was taken on East Fourth, less than a block away from L Street. It shows the final snow accumulation on Monday, March 21, around mid-morning. It appears that the local weather predictions were highly exaggerated – they forecast 6 inches or more; what’s shown is no more than 2 inches (and it mostly disappeared by noontime). It appears that our weather forecasters – who love to shock folks – perhaps “gilded the lily” a bit too much. Many people came into town late, or even took the day off. Boston’s schools were closed Monday and the announcement came the previous night, before the snow had even started to fall. -Rick Winterson
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SouthBostonOnline.com
St. Patrick’s Day parade in pictures
One of South Boston’s most prominent, historic nonprofits. (Photo by Rick Winterson)
The Cycling Murrays come to South Boston’s parade every year. (Photo by Rick Winterson)
Some spectators wore festive outfits to the parade Sunday. (Photo by Rick Winterson)
Kevin Conroy was last year’s parade chief marshal. (Photo by Kevin Devlin)
the High School’s JROTC pays tribute to Wacko Hurley’s Memorial Parade. (Photo by Rick Winterson) The OUTVETS return to the parade for a second year. (Photo by Rick Winterson)
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Thursday, March 24, 2016
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Marines participated in South Boston’s parade. (Photo by Kevin Devlin)
Bagpipe players process down East Broadway. (Photo by Kevin Devlin)
Members of the Irish Coast Guard, Howth Unit, wave to parade spectators on East Broadway. (Photo by Kevin Devlin)
The Dropkick Murphy’s were a sponsor of this year’s parade. In addition to the vintage Buick Convertible, the group also had a duckboat in the parade. (Photo by Kevin Devlin)
Find more photos from the parade at SouthBostonOnline.com
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Thursday, March 24, 2016
SouthBostonOnline.com
South Boston Citizens’ Association holds Evacuation Day banquet
Liam Galvin (center), the mayor of Limerick City and County, with Parade Chief Marshal Bill Thomas and Billy Higgins. By Rick Winterson
Officials from the South Boston Citizens’ Association local elected officials, mayors from Ireland, parade officials from the Allied War Veterans Council, South Boston sponsors of the banquet, guests of honor and SBCA award recipients, officers and crew members from the visiting USS McFaul (DDG-74), and many tables of honored guests gathered at the Convention Center last Friday, March 18. The occasion was the SBCA’s 136th anniversary Evacuation Day Banquet,
BOSTON REDEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY
an annual event. SBCA President Tommy McGrath proudly stated that at 136 years of age, the SBCA is America’s oldest civic organization. And 2016 is the 240th anniversary year of the American nation, which was formally declared independent in 1776. The banquet was a gala event. At 7 p.m., the “Head Table to Infinity” – there were 22 seated at it – marched in while singing “Southie Is My Home Town,” accompanied by Curragh’s Fancy (Bob Fowkes, Michael Kelley and Dave Leahy): “I had an argument the other day, with
PUBLIC MEETING
482 WEST BROADWAY MIXED USE PROJECT THURSDAY, MARCH 31 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM
368 WEST BROADWAY South Boston Lithuanian Club South Boston, MA 02127
PROJECT PROPONENT: Frank E. Sorretti PROJECT DESCRIPTION: Article 80 Small Project Review for a new 5-Story building consisting of 18 residential condominium units, with approximately 4,190 square feet of commercial space, served by 21 below-grade off-street parking spaces. The proposed project is located at 480-482 West Broadway in South Boston.
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LANCE CAMPBELL
Boston Redevelopment Authority One City Hall Square, 9th Floor Boston, MA 02201 617.918.4311 lance.campbell@boston.gov
CLOSE OF COMMENT PERIOD: Monday, April 4, 2016
Chris Flaherty speaks for himself, Ryan Long and Andrew Lane (standing behind him), after receiving SBCA Shamrock Awards for their heroism.
Pattie McCormick is one of the honorees, with an SBCA Award for her long service at the Boys & Girls Club and throughout South Boston.
a guy from Oscaloo …” Father Joe conferred a blessing, and a dispensation for corned beef; the Pledge of Allegiance and the National Anthem were then said. This was followed by a delicious boiled dinner in the locally prevalent Irish tradition – gray corned beef (of course), cabbage and carrots, and soda bread with raisins (but no caraway). As is the SBCA tradition, many awards were conferred. Mayor Marty Walsh gave Jimmy Kelley Shamrock Awards to Chris Flaherty, Ryan Long and Andrew Lane for their heroism in a water rescue; Congressman Steve Lynch conferred the McCormack
Public Service Award on his friend and associate Kevin Ryan, who had served both Steve and Joe Moakley for many years. State Rep. Nick Collins, absent at a wedding (not his own), received the SBCA’s President Award. Pattie McCormick also received a Jimmy Kelly Shamrock for her 37 years of service at the Boys & Girls Club, along with her many other community activities. Commander Michael Gunther USN from the USS McFaul (DDG74) and Parade Chief Marshal Bill Thomas were both recognized for their participation in the St. Patrick/Evacuation Day festivities this year. It was a great party.
South Boston Youth Hockey League Alumni Game Saturday Any SBYHL alumni interested in playing Saturday should contact Mike Prendergast at Prendergastm21@gmail.com It should be a fun day for all, a chance to see the improvements to Murphy Rink and to show off some of those rusty skills from years gone by.
BostonRedevelopmentAuthority.org Teresa Polhemus, Executive Director/Secretary
@BostonRedevelop
Games start at noon.
Thursday, March 24, 2016
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The “Head Table to Infinity” singing “Southie Is My Home Town” at the 136th Evacuation Day Banquet, an annual celebration of the South Boston Citizens’ Association.
The ladies of the South Boston Citizens’ Association receive elegant bouquets as recognition of their irreplaceable work behind the scenes of the 2016 Evacuation Day Banquet.
State Sen. Linda Dorcena-Forry presents an SBCA Award to Commander Michael Gunther of the USS McFaul (DDG-74) and thanks him for the visit of his ship and crew to South Boston.
Boston City Councilor-at-Large Michael Flaherty and Congressman Steve Lynch serenaded the Banquet’s guests with Irish songs.
TUTORING Ann F. Walsh
617-877-7140
AnnFWalsh@AOL.com Class meets at 15 Fairfax St., Dorchester, MA 02124
Finn and Bob Shields, both decked out in green, are enjoying the South Boston Citizens’ Association Reception and Banquet last Friday evening.
ISEE
Math and English for 5th and 7th graders who will take the ISEE in November 8 week course – 2 hours per week Students taking this course should take the 8 week follow-up course that starts in September
ADVANCED WORK
Math and English for 2nd, 3rd, 4th graders who will take the Terra Nova in November 8 week course – 2 hours per week Students taking this course should take the 8 week follow-up course that starts in September
SAT in June
Algebra I, Algebra II, Geometry, PreCalc State Auditor Suzanne Bump with Sal Giarratani of the Boston City Paper at the South Boston Citizens’ Association Reception and Banquet.
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SouthBostonOnline.com
Southie hockey team wins Blue Valley League title By KEVIN DEVLIN and LISA BALLARD
On Sunday, March 13, the South Boston Youth Hockey League Mite “A” team won the Mite South AAA Blue Valley League Hockey Championship title by defeating Needham in Haverhill, 5-4, in sudden death overtime. Southie made it into the championship tilt by defeating Lexington/Bedford, 8-4, in the semi-finals the day before. Lexington/Bedford was the division’s first place team.
“A win just seems so right,” said coach Dave Ivaska. Sunday’s championship game was a fight to the finish with both teams playing their best hockey. South Boston’s Ryan Alexander scored the first goal for South Boston in the first period but the local squad was
Pictured are the 2016 Mite South AAA Blue Valley League Champions from South Boston. First row: Jackson Ballard. Second row: Michael Curry, Ryan Collins, Dimitri Markos, Logan LaBreck, Samuel Flood, Joseph Diblasi, Harry Minucci, and James McFarland. Third row: Colin McQuade, Benjamin Dearden, Kate Green, Rocco Blasi, and Ryan Alexander. Fourth row: Coaches Dave Ivaska, Steve LaBreck, Chris Ballard and Charlie DiBlasi. (Photo courtesy of Lisa Ballard)
down 3-1 going into the second period. Southie forward Harry Minucci scored two goals to tie the game up in the second period. Southie took the lead for the first time in the game with the fourth goal, scored by
Stephanie Uftring Memorial Scholarship Deadline: postmarked by May 1, 2016 Winner Announced: June 1, 2016
Stephanie Uftring was a life-long South Boston resident who recently lost her battle with Colon Cancer. Stephanie’s friends and family have established a memorial scholarship in her name to give back to the community she loved so much. Stephanie was 48 years old when she passed away in 2014. She lived her life to the fullest and even when given her diagnosis she was determined to fight her disease, keep living life and continue spreading happiness wherever she went. She grew up in Boston Housing and was very proud of her upbringing. She attended St. Augustine Grammer School, Sacred Heart High School and Johnson and Wales College. Education was extremely important to her and this scholarship will represent that importance by helping to provide some relief to students attending tuition based schools. Stephanie was a driven individual who worked a full-time job as well as spent her evenings as a waitress. She always had a smile and joke for her customers, people loved coming to see her. She made a friend everywhere she went – the ages spanned from small children to 90 year olds! She was recognized for calling every one of them “Lovey”. She had a passion for travel and spent time with friends on many vacations to Ireland, Florida, Alaska, Cape Cod, Maine and the Cat Skills. She was a proud member and Vice President of the Irish American Society. And becoming a member of the South Boston Yacht Club was something she cherished. Finally, she was very active in the community and volunteered for many fundraisers. Helping people live better lives was something she strived for. Stephanie was a unique person who would light up a room with her smile. She is truly missed and would be so happy to have her memory live on by helping people.
Michael Curry, but then Needham came right back and scored 30 seconds later, to tie it up again, 4-4. The game went into sudden death overtime. And with one minute and 35 seconds left on the game clock, Benjamin Dearden skated down ice with the puck and scored the winning goal. It was a great effort by the entire team. Goalie Jackson Ballard had a number of key saves behind the solid defensive lines of Joseph DiBlasi, Dimitri Markos, James McFarland and Colin McQuade. The team’s offensive lines, Ryan Alexander, Rocco Blasi, Ryan Collins, Michael Curry, Benjamin Dearden, Samuel Flood, Kate
Green, Logan LaBreck and Harry Minucci, played strong and battled until the end. The coaches presented the players with their trophies after the victory. They agreed it was a great season and are proud of these kids. They felt that this team is what hockey is all about: dedication, unbelievable teamwork and determination. It has indeed been quite a season for the South Boston Mite “A” team. They won the Mayor’s Cup Championship in January, beating out Dorchester 8-5 in the final game for the title, followed by this impressive victory. “To see these kids improve week after week and battle all year was fun to watch,” said Coach Dave Ivaska. “The effort every single player gave during practice and skill’s sessions paid off. “I am grateful to have been able to teach such a great group of athletes,” he added. “I also want to acknowledge the dedication of time and effort of Coaches Steve LaBreck, Chris Ballard, and Charlie DiBlasi. A win just seems so right.”
South Boston Online is now on Twitter @SouthBostonNews
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It’s time for spring cleaning Are you looking for someone to help clean up your yard in order to get ready for spring and summer? The Youth Ambassadors from the South Boston Community Health Center will be offering yard cleanup services on Saturday mornings starting March 26 in exchange for a donation. All proceeds from the yard cleanups will be used to offset the cost of the Youth Ambassadors’ Community Service Trip to Detroit in April. The Youth Ambassadors will be spending their school vacation doing home repairs for families who were devastated by floods that occurred in Michigan in the summer of 2014. If you are interested in having your yard cleaned or want further information, please contact Mayra Rodriguez-Howard at 617-464-7423 or mahoward@ sbchc.org. Please join us on Wednesday, March 30 at 6 p.m. at the Lincoln Tavern for a social gathering after work and to help us raise funds for our trip. Suggested donation is $20.
Thursday, March 24, 2016
Evacuation Day book sale held at library Book sales at the South Boston Branch Library continued up to spring. This last one was the Evacuation Day Book Sale, though it actually took place on Saturday, March 19, the last day of winter. There were books everywhere – children’s books laid out on tables, shelf after shelf of books for the grown-ups, and even portable shelves full of books outside. Proceeds benefit the many programs of the volunteers who make up the Friends of the Branch Library Group. Money collected from the sales, at prices ranging from 50 cents up to $2. for hardbound novels and nonfiction, support library activities that aren’t funded by tax money. Best of all, you can buy a book and turn it back in for yet another resale – the gift that keeps on giving! (Notice the Hubway bicycles in front of the library. Hubway opened the station on Wednesday, March 9, and many other stations have followed, including ones on Day Boulevard and at West Broadway and Dorchester Street.) -Rick Winterson
14uathl
Ann
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Sample culinary specialties from South Boston’s top chefs!
Wine & Beer Tasting•Live Entertainment•Silent Auction•Raffles
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At the Door
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Purchase tickets at:
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F E A T U R I N G: Amrheins American Provisions The Barking Crab Bastille Kitchen Café Porto Bello Committee • Coppersmith The Cranberry Café Empire • The Juice Box Legal Harborside Lincoln Tavern & Restaurant Local 149 Loco Taqueria & Oyster Bar Lucky’s Lounge • The Maiden Miam Miam Macaronerie Moonshine 152 • The No Name Outlook Kitchen and Bar The Spirit of Boston Stephi’s in Southie Sweet Tooth Boston Tamo Bistro & Bar Temazcal Cantina • Trade Water Café at the ICA • Worden Hall
Tickets may also be purchased (cash or check only) at: South Boston Neighborhood Development Corporation, 365 West Broadway, South Boston
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Wine: Al’s Liquors Beer: Harpoon Brewery
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Sullivan’s Insurance Club captures men’s league hoop title
The 2016 South Boston Basketball Association men’s winter league champions, the Sullivan Insurance Club, show off their championship league sweatshirts. The players are Chris Kinback, Chris Worden, Kevin Knowles, Ted Hughes, Mike Doherty, Matt O’Malley, David Brewer, and TJ Russell. By KEVIN DEVLIN
On Tuesday, March 15, at the Tynan Community Center gymnasium, the Sullivan Insurance Club defeated Sal’s Club, 54-42, to capture the 2016 South Boston Basketball Association winter league championship. In the end, too much height and offensive firepower stood in the way of Sal’s “Young Guns” to win it all. In the first half with the game tied, 7-7, and with 14:04 on the game clock, Sal’s went on an 8-0 to take a 15-7 lead. The Sullivan Club responded with their own 8-0 run to tie it up, 15-15. For the remainder
of the first half, the teams exchanged baskets, and the Sullivan Club had a 30-27 advantage at the half. In the second half, with 15:32 left in the game, the Sullivan Club exploded offensively (hitting 14 three-pointers overall) going on a 5-0 and subsequent 10-5 run to take a 47-35 lead. And that was all she wrote for the Young Guns. For Sal’s, Brian Dunphy and Matt Greeley scored 11 points apiece, each hitting three treys. Matt Beggan scored eight points including two threepointers, while Matt Kehoe (one trey) and Mike Gillis finished with seven and six points, respectively. For the
The 2016 South Boston Basketball Association men’s winter league finalists were Sal’s Club. The players are Jack Higgins, Matt Greeley, Mike Gillis, Mitch Newcomb, Matt Beggan, Brian Dunphy, and Matt Kehoe.
champs, David Brewer, SBOL’s MVP, knocked down six three-pointers for 18 points. Chris Worden (two treys) scored 10 points. Ted Hughes and Kevin Knowles each had eight points, including two treys apiece. Matt O’Malley scored five points, including one trey, while TJ Russell hit a trey. It was a great season for the association led by Commissioner Eddie “Wilt” Curran. “It was another competitive, winter hoop season at the Tynan,” Curran said. “The guys enjoyed the games and had terrific workouts. “I would like to thank the Tynan Community Center for allowing us to use the gym,” Curran added. “Tynan Program Supervisor Kathy Davis and
her staff are always there for us. … I also want to thank the sponsors. They have been consistently there for us throughout the years. They are Sal’s Restaurant, the Boston Beer Garden, The Quietman Golf Committee, South Boston Check Cashing, Cranberry Café, Peter Welch’s Gym, The Playwright Bar, and Sullivan’s Insurance Agency.” Curran is looking for men’s basketball teams to play in the summer league on Tuesday and Thursday evenings. The games are played at the Michael Pano basketball courts located within M Street Park. Games begin in May and those interested can contact Ed Curran at eddiecurran@outlook.com
SouthBostonOnline.com
Thursday, March 24, 2016
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The Casper Clan: Siblings enjoying sports, life in South Boston By KEVIN DEVLIN
Every time I have the opportunity to meet great parents and tremendously polite kids, I feel my life enriched, and the need to write their story, not an undertaking, but simply a pleasure. And this story isn’t any different, as I present the Casper Clan: Patricia, Frank, and Julia. Patricia, 8, is in the second grade at the Murphy Elementary School in Dorchester. Her favorite subject is art and someday she hopes to be a cook, photographer or illustrator. Her favorite color is blue. Her favorite foods are apples and macaroni and cheese. She also likes food from Sully’s (who doesn’t), as well as chicken nuggets in white sauce and French fries from the Village. Patricia has been taking Irish Step Dancing for four years at the Woods School of Irish Dance. Her favorite step is the local Saint Patrick’s Day dance step. Patricia plans on joining the South Boston Girls Softball League which is ready to start soon. Patricia also plays in the Gate of Heaven CYO instructional hoop league and loves going up to the Walsh Center gym to learn the game. “I like playing center,” she said. “I’m one of the tallest girls. I like rebounding. I love Allison (Baker) and Hannah (Powers) who teach me things. It is fun and I like being with my friends in the gym.” In her leisure time, Patricia enjoys playing with her friend Gia who lives across the street from her home. She enjoys drawing pictures with crayons. She’s creative and enjoys do-ityourself projects. She loves watching SpongeBob SquarePants on TV and listening to her favorite singer, Taylor Swift. Patricia also likes to read and is currently reading Miss Daisy is Crazy and Mr. Klutz is Nuts, both written by Dan Gutman. In the summertime, Patricia loves going to Ellis Haven where she can ride her bike, go to dances, sew, and attend arts and crafts. She also plans on enrolling in the McDonough Sailing Program on Castle Island so she can learn how to sail. Francis, 14 – who goes by Frank or “Frank the Tank” – attends the Boston Collegiate Charter School in Dorchester. His favorite subject is science and someday he plans on being an engineer or a professional hockey
player. His favorite NHL players are Patrick Kane of the Chicago Blackhawks, Jack Eichel of the Buffalo Sabres, and former Bruins legendary defenseman, Bobby Orr. Frank started his youth hockey career in the South Boston Youth Hockey League, and after eight seasons, switched over to the Dorchester Youth Hockey League. He’s currently on the Bantam “A” team coached by Chris Garside and Joey Carter. As a Pee Wee player in Southie, he scored over 50 goals and had a whole bunch of assists. He was a member of the Southie Mite “A” district champions, and in 2010, won the John Cunniff Tournament essay contest. Frank started playing baseball in the Southie t-league, won the “Best Sportsman” award as a Little Leaguer, and last summer, played for coaches Bobby McGarrell, Jerry Galvin and Billy Crowley in the Babe Ruth League. “I like playing second base and hitting the ball,” he said. “Last year during the playoffs I didn’t strike out once.” In his leisure time, Frank enjoys his Xbox games, playing street hockey with his friends in the old Gatey School grounds and riding his hover board. He enjoys reading and is currently engrossed in the American Sniper memoir. And he loves journeying to a Plymouth driving range to hit golf balls with his dad. Julia, 16, also attends BCCS. Her favorite subjects are honor algebra II and geometry, and she plans on being an orthopedic doctor. In her leisure time, she reads. Her current choice is George Orwell’s Animal Farm. She also cherishes hanging out with her friends and working at the Curley Recreation Center during the summer. Julia started playing hoop in the Gatey program and was on her school’s varsity team as a freshman and a sophomore. She’ll never forget the time
she was playing on her middle school team against the Neighborhood House Charter School in Dorchester. She hit a three-pointer from downtown and a fan yelled from the stands, “I taught her that!” The unknown fan was soon identified as Linda Chapin, who works at the charter school, but taught Julia in the Gatey instructional league. Julia has been active in the South Boston Girls Softball League for the past nine seasons. She’s utilized as a catcher and second baseman and will always remember hitting her first home run at Evans Field. She was also on her school’s varsity team as an
eighth-grader and was excited when they won the state charter school championship. And she’ll never forget her first at bat last season for BCCS when she hit a grand slam to win the game. Julia played for the Angels in the South Boston Youth Hockey League and was a member of their state championship team coached by Chico Silva and Eddie Mahoney. Now, she plays for the Mass Bay Shamrocks, coached by Tommy McGrath. And finally, she has been on the BCCS cross country team for the past three years. She’s a busy young lady. Patricia, Frank and Julia are indeed fortunate youngsters. Their caring parents, Robert and Paula, make sure they’re focused in school, busy with sports, and certainly not misbehaving. “We do what families are supposed to do,” Paula said. “My husband and I enjoy watching them grow up. They keep busy with sports. We love going to their games and watch them compete. It’s fun. “And we keep an eye on what they’re doing in school and out,” she added. “They’re just great kids.”
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SouthBostonOnline.com
Continued from Page 1 when the British left Boston, soliciting cheers from the elected officials, community members and students gathered for the historic Evacuation Day exercises. “This is a special day in the city of Boston and Suffolk County,” Boston Mayor Martin J. Walsh said. “It is important for us to remember it every single year and continue to come back here.” In most communities, March 17 is celebrated as St. Patrick’s Day – and South Boston is no exception to this. But the community also remembers Evacuation Day – March 17, 1776 – a day that holds much significance locally. Overlooking the city of Boston from Dorchester Heights Thursday morning, elected officials and community members – most of whom were dressed in at least one article of green clothing – cordially honored the historic day, remarked on the country’s political climate, and looked ahead to Sunday’s parade. March 17, 1776 The smell of gunpowder lingered in the air Thursday morning, following a ceremonial shooting of guns by a group of reenactors assembled next to the Dorchester Heights monument. “The story of what happened here in 1776 is one of most outstanding tales of the American Revolution,” said Michael Creasey, National Parks Service superintendent of Boston. “This city resonates with stories like this.” The wall along Thomas Park shares with visitors a brief synopsis of the location’s history: “As a final act of an eleven month siege, the continental army occupied these heights and forced the evacuation of British troops from Boston on March 17, 1776 – General George Washington’s first victory in the American Revolution.” The occupying British forces evacuated Boston 240 years ago, after “colonial militia and local volunteers stealthily fortified the summit of Dorchester Heights,” as the U.S. National Park Service recognizes the historic events. Evacuation Day, a historic event
A military participant in the Evacuation Day events waits to play “Taps” on March 17. (Photos by Susan Doucet)
familiar to Bostonians, is not a widely celebrated date – though it was in the past, officials said Thursday. Evacuation Day is observed in Suffolk County and is often overlooked by people observing St. Patrick’s Day each March 17. “There’s no other place in the world that was the beginning of the true idea of America,” said state Rep. Nick Collins. “It all began right here.” St. Patrick’s Day parade The morning was primarily dedicated to Evacuation Day, but St. Patrick’s Day was also recognized by many of the speakers. “I’m as excited about our Evacuation Day this year as I am about St. Patrick’s Day,” Collins said. “They both speak to the opportunity that Americans and immigrants have to speak up for themselves and fight against tyranny, like the shortening of parades.” The local state representative’s comment drew cheers and laughs from the crowd, as Collins also praised Walsh’s efforts to keep Evacuation Day as a recognized holiday. The parade, which is organized by the South Boston Allied War Veterans Council and celebrates St. Patrick’s Day and Evacuation Day, passes by Dorchester Heights with its traditional route. However, that came very close to not happening this year. Less than a month ago, the
city denied the organization’s permit for the traditional three-mile route. According to the permit for the shortened route issued in February, the route was changed to “mitigate public safety and congestion concerns.” Community members and the parade organizers fought this decision. Last week, parade organizers filed a lawsuit to be able to use the traditional route. On Tuesday, March 15, a judge ruled in favor of the parade organizers, allowing the parade to process as planned on Sunday. Walsh talked about the parade route issue Thursday morning, a topic that has been highly contentious in South Boston. “Right now our country seems to be divided, especially when it comes to politics. It’s a mistake to let elections polarize us,” he said. “We need to come together as a city and as a nation to move forward and to honor the sacrifice our heroes have made to protect our nation and principles.” “There’s no doubt though that Bostonians 240 years ago had differences of opinions, whether it was politics or parade routes, they didn’t let their differences get in the way of them working together,” Walsh said. Sunday, about 150 processed from Broadway Station, through South Boston, and ended at Andrew Square – the route as usual. One of those marching was be the city’s mayor.
“I will see you on the parade route, whether it’s on Broadway or Andrew Square on Sunday,” Walsh said, closing his remarks Thursday morning. Local recognitions The South Boston Citizens’ Association – which is celebrating its 136th year – oversaw the 240th annual Evacuation Day events. Thursday morning, organizers – including SBCA President Tom McGrath, past president Bernie O’Donnell, and numerous others – celebrated the community, the March 17 holiday, and local students. The winners of the citizen association’s annual essay and poster contest were honored during the ceremony. The contest winners – students at South Boston Catholic Academy, Boston Latin School, Boston Collegiate Charter School, Boston Latin Academy and St. Peter Academy – either illustrated historic South Boston or wrote about Henry Knox and general George Washington’s historical significance to Dorchester Heights. Boston City Councilor Bill Linehan recalled participating in Evacuation Day events as a student and recognized the efforts of those, particularly the citizen’s association, who help preserve local history. “We truly respect all the people who fight for the traditions,” Linehan said. “South Boston has always been a place rich in tradition.”
Find more photos from Evacuation Day at SouthBostonOnline.com
SouthBostonOnline.com
Thursday, March 24, 2016
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Participants in the Evacuation Day memorial and historic exercises gathered at the end of the ceremony at Dorchester Heights on March 17.
Boston Police Department Commissioner William B. Evans (left) and Boston Mayor Martin J. Walsh walk next to the Dorchester Heights monument before the start of the Evacuation Day memorial and historic exercises.
Boston City Councilor Michael Flaherty distributes posters to their owners during the Evacuation Day events at Dorchester Heights on Thursday, March 17, 2016. Contest entrants were asked to illustrate historic South Boston. The poster contest winners were Mya Donovan, Lauren Chin, Sophia Hally, Bobby Banks, Jack Reidy, Chase Bell and Oisin Shine.
With the Dorchester Heights monument behind them, re-enactors fire their weapons during the Evacuation Day memorial/historical exercises.
South Boston Citizens’ Association President Tom McGrath (left) and Boston Mayor Martin J. Walsh (right) pose with Sean Loftus on March 17. Sean, a student at Boston Latin Academy, is one of the essay contest winners and was recognized during the Evacuation Day memorial and historic exercises at Dorchester Heights.
SouthBostonOnline.com Children stand with their hands on their chests for the pledge of allegiance.
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Thursday, March 24, 2016
Tynan Happenings INDOOR GOLF CLINIC FOR ADULTS & YOUTH The Tynan Community Center will be hosting an Indoor Golf Clinic for Youth and Adults on Wednesday evenings. The youth session will be from 6 to7 p.m. (ages 7 to 17) followed by the adult session from 7 to 8 p.m. This is a six week program which begins on Wednesday, March 30. Equipment is provided but you may bring your own clubs. Clinicians are highly qualified golf instructors. You may register at the Tynan Community Center Monday through Friday from 3 to 8 p.m. in the gym. Registration is first come, first served, with a maximum of 25 people per session.
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Ticknor Street memories Top: These lifelong friends, aka the “Ticknor Street” gang or the “Tickies” from the Old Southie meet each year around Saint Patrick’s Day at the South Boston Yacht Club to renew old friendships. They are pictured at the yacht club on Sunday, March 13. When they wore younger men’s clothes, their second home was the “L” Street Bathhouse (aka the Curley Recreation Center) where you could see them playing handball, using the solarium, or simply just hanging out. Some of them were lifeguards and liked to swim. And a few occasionally took a winter dip long before it was the hip thing to do. Some of the Tickies still live in Southie but all still wear Southie on their arm sleeves and will always cherish being “OFS”- Originally from Southie. Can you name those pictured? Below: These three old timers are lifelong friends who grew up South Boston. All three are well-known and truly legends in their own minds. But seriously, they are really great guys. They are pictured at the South Boston Yacht Club on Sunday, March 13 to have a few beers in honor of Saint Patrick. Their first names (from left ) are Mike, Joe, and Sal. Do you know their last names?
The Massachusetts Department of Transportation invites you to attend a public meeting regarding: South Boston Bypass Road and HOV Pilot TUESDAY, APRIL 5: 6 to 8 p.m. at Boston Convention and Exhibition Center Room 154 415 Summer St., Boston On behalf of the South Boston Waterfront Sustainable Transportation Committee, MassDOT is hosting a public meeting to review the results of the South Boston Bypass Road and HOV 6-month Pilot program. The meeting will be an opportunity for to review the pre, during, and post pilot data and gather public feedback on the impact of the pilot program. The six-month pilot program, launched on August 17, opened the South Boston Bypass Road to non-commercial traffic at all times in the section from Richards Street to West Service Road, and opened the South Boston Bypass Road in the eastbound direction from I-93 to Richards Street during AM peak hours (6 to 10 a.m.). The pilot also opened the HOV Airport Express Lanes from I-93 Northbound, Kneeland Street and Traveler Street to the Ted Williams Tunnel to all vehicles at all times. If you have any questions, please contact: Jim Kersten Legislative Liaison, MassDOT Email: James.A.Kersten@state.ma.us The meeting space is accessible to people with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation (such as American Sign Language Interpreters, assistive listening devices, handouts in alternate formats, etc.) and/or language assistance to fully participate, please contact Jim Kersten at MassDOT at 857-368-9041 or james.a.kersten@state.ma.us before March 29, 2016. Such accommodations will be provided free of charge.
Thursday, March 24, 2016
SouthBostonOnline.com
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Real Estate transactions BUYER 1 (Last)
BUYER 1 (First)
BUYER 2 (First)
ADDRESS
BUYER 2 (Last)
CITY
ZIP
PRICE
DATE
Veronica E
Wall
Christine M
Coakley
510 E 6th St.
South Boston
02127-3029
$250,000
3/1/16
Peter M
Coyne
Lori A
Coyne
524 E Broadway, #4
South Boston
02127-4407
$700,000
3/1/16
Sharah
Levis
Jonathan
Desmond
225 Dorchester St., #13
South Boston
02127-2876
$760,000
3/2/16
Cory
Gibson
30 Boston St., #3
South Boston
02127-3504
$425,000
3/2/16
Chris
Gika
30 Boston St., #1
South Boston
02127-3504
$490,000
3/3/16
Leo F
Rusk
170 H St.
South Boston
02127-4111
$700,000
3/3/16
Steven J
Collins
794 E 6th St.
South Boston
02127-4319
$1,375,000 3/4/16
Jon
Rybicki
Roberta
Rybicki
584 E 8th St., #1
South Boston
02127-4134
$600,000
3/4/16
Prasad V
Tota
Khyati B
Varma
330 Dorchester St., #3
South Boston
02127-2757
$690,000
3/4/16
Robert L
Leyen
Yoav
Broum
330 Dorchester St., #2
South Boston
02127-2757
$649,000
3/4/16
Ronan 953 LLC
58 Tolman St.
Dorchester
02122-3220
$511,000
3/1/16
84 Train Street LLC
84 Train St., #1
Dorchester
02122-2405
$190,000
3/1/16
480 Quincy St.
Dorchester
02125-2575
$490,000
3/1/16
Granitz FT LLC
43 Fox St.
Dorchester
02122-1722
$450,000
3/2/16
Michael P
Nash
40 Washburn St., #1
Dorchester
02125-1151
$560,000
3/2/16
Michael P
Nash
40 Washburn St., #2
Dorchester
02125-1151
$415,000
3/2/16
Michael P
Nash
40 Washburn St., #3
Dorchester
02125-1151
$615,000
3/2/16
Robert M
Lunn
13 Howell St., #1
Dorchester
02125-1150
$650,000
3/4/16
Brody J
Stara
65 Auckland St., 31
Dorchester
02125-3336
$425,000
3/4/16
Nicholan R
Corporan
Moreno
Casey L
Allen J
Rusk
Abdulla
Lyon Street RT
HS Land T LLC Tr 25 Lyon St.
Dorchester
02122-2918
$330,378
3/4/16
36 Church Street RT
HS Land T LLC Tr 36 Church St.
Dorchester
02122-3014
$330,378
3/4/16
Dorchester
02122-1000
$665,000
3/4/16
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Thursday, March 24, 2016
SouthBostonOnline.com
Happy Easter
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