03_12_26

THURSDAY MARCH 12, 2026

SOUTH BOSTON ONLINE

VOLUME XIX- ISSUE 74

SBCA Awardees to be Honored Friday Night 250th Anniversary of Evacuation Day to be Celebrated at the 146th South Boston Citizens’ Association Annual Banquet

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he South Boston Citizens’ Association has announced the recipients of its 2026 community awards, to be presented at the 146th Annual Evacuation Day Banquet celebrating the 250th Anniversary of Evacuation Day on Friday, March 13, 2026, at the Thomas Menino Convention Center.

Association President Tom McGrath and the Executive Board have selected Lee Burke and the Michael Burke Foundation and Randy Greeley as recipients of the James M. “Jimmy” Kelly/ Margaret “Pegg y” Fla hert y Shamrock Award for Community Ser vice. Bobby Ferrara has been chosen to receive the Joe Moakley Outstanding Citizen Award and Richie Linehan will receive the John W. McCormack Award for Public Ser vice.

The honorees are being recognized for their selfless efforts

in assisting those in need and for consistently stepping forward to support benefits and worthy causes throughout South Boston and the surrounding community.

Cocktail hour will begin at 5:30 PM, with dinner served at 7:00 PM. Entertainment will be provided by Curragh’s Fancy, along with appearances by a host of special dignitaries.

The Banquet is sold out!!!

Michael Burke Foundation

Michael Burke, affectionately known as “Big Mike” or “Burkie,” was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend who was diagnosed with brain cancer in December 2013. Big Mike fought courageously for 15 months before passing away just days after his 60th birthday. He remains a powerful example of kindness and generosity — always helping others quietly and without seeking recognition, simply because it brought him joy to make a difference.

Founded in 2016, the

Michael Burke Foundation is a registered 501(c)(3) charitable organization created to carry on Big Mike’s legacy. The Foundation’s mission is to support cancer patients and their families by helping to ease the financial burdens that often accompany serious illness.

Through its annual Pig Roast at the Boston Harbor Yacht Club and other fundraising efforts, the Foundation has sold over 4,000 tickets, raised approximately $500,000, and — most importantly — distributed more than $350,000 to 240 families battling cancer. These families have directly benefited from t he compa ssion a nd generosity of the community.

The Foundation stands as a testament to Big Mike’s spirit and would not exist without the continued support of friends, neig hbors, a nd volunteers.

The South Boston Citizens’ A ssociation proudly honors the Michael Burke Foundation for embody i ng t he ver y spirit of community ser vice

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award

Randy Greeley

Randy Greeley is a proud son of South Boston and the eldest son of Edward and Dianne Horne.

He is the proud father of Zachary Greeley, who is married to Emma, and grandfather to Christopher and Cole. Randy’s partner in crime is Jacqueline Nauyokas, and he lovingly considers her children — Sidney, Matthew, Olivia, Evan, and Nick — as well as her grandchildren Hadley, River, Knox, and Crew — as his own.

Randy has been giving back to our beloved neighborhood since his early teenage years. He served as a coach and referee with South Boston Youth Soccer (SBYS), earning SBYS’s Man of the Year Award in 1998.

As a teenager, he also volunteered working bingos for St. Vincent’s, St. Peter and Paul, and Our Lady of Good Voyage. Over the years, he has helped organize countless fundraisers to assist neighbors in need and support organizations such as South Boston Special Kids & Continued on Page 2

South Boston Citizen’s Association Bowl-A-Rama Bowl-A-Rama was held Sunday afternoon as part of the events organized by the South Boston Citizens’ Association. Congressman Stephen Lynch and many other bowlers had a great time at the event put on by honorary chairpersons Cheryl Joyce, Andrea Flaherty, Rich Devoe, Pauline Bare, Donna Bohan and Joyce Higgins. The Bowl-ARama was sponsored by Southie Bowl.

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represents.

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Continued from Page 1

Awards Young Adults, The Mighty Quinn, Tommy’s Place, and Lucy’s Love Bus. Following in the footsteps of his grandfather Stan (U.S. Army) and his father Ed (U.S. Marine Corps), Randy proudly served his country. He enlisted in the United States Army Reserves on December 16, 1996, and completed Basic Training and Advanced Individual Training at Fort Jackson, South Carolina. Upon returning home in June 1997, he was assigned to the 455th Medical Company (Dental Services) in Devens, Massachusetts, where he served until September 2010. In 2005, he was activated in support of Operation Enduring Freedom with the 804th Medical Brigade. The family’s tradition of military service continues, as his son Zachary currently serves as a Petty Officer First Class in the U.S. Navy.

In 2007, Randy graduated from the Boston Fire Department Fire Academy and has proudly served as a member of the Boston Fire Department ever since.

In 2020, he was elected to the Executive Board of IAFF Local 718, serving as an Executive Board Representative before being appointed Legislative Agent in 2021 — a position to which he has since been reelected twice by his peers.

In 2022, Randy was elected Senior Vice Commander of the South Boston Allied War Veterans Council. Following the 2023 parade, he assumed the role of Commander, a position he currently holds. In May 2025, he was nominated by State Representative David Biele to receive a Governor’s Citation at the Commonwealth’s Inaugural Military Appreciation Day — a fitting recognition of his lifelong commitment to service.

In recognition of Their extraordinary dedication to family, community, and country, the Michael Burke Foundation and Randy Greeley will be presented with the James M. “Jimmy” Kelly / Margaret “Peggy” Flaherty Shamrock Award for Community Service by the South Boston Citizens’ Association at the Association’s

2026 Annual Evacuation Day Banquet on March 13, 2026.

Bobby Ferrara

Born and raised in South Boston, Robert “Bob” Ferrara embodies the spirit, pride, and perseverance that define our community. A proud graduate of Saint Brigid’s Grammar School and Don Bosco Technical High School, where he played varsity football, Bob continued his academic and athletic career at University of Massachusetts Lowell, also competing in varsity football, before transferring to Boston College, where he earned his degree in Business Management.

Bob devoted much of his professional life to leadership in the private sector, serving in sales and sales management roles with Fleet Bank and Bell Atlantic. He later answered the call to public service, becoming Director of Labor Relations statewide for the Department of Conservation and Recreation. Today, he continues that commitment as Manager of the Murphy Complex with the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation, ensuring that one of South Boston’s most cherished facilities serves generations of families.

A founding Board member of South Boston Pop Warner Football and Cheerleading, and a founding Board member and coach of South Boston Youth Lacrosse, Bob has shaped the lives of countless young athletes — teaching not only the fundamentals of sport, but the values of teamwork, discipline, and neighborhood pride.

He has also served as a trusted advisor to numerous charities and nonprofit organizations dedicated to strengthening the South Boston community.

In this 250th Anniversary year of Evacuation Day — commemorating the historic departure of British forces from Boston on March 17, 1776 — Bob Ferrara rekindled a powerful symbol of unity and patriotism through his “Flags Over Broadway” initiative. His vision brought American flags proudly waving

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along Broadway, restoring a visible sense of pride, gratitude, and shared identity throughout the neighborhood. At a time when unity was needed most, his efforts stirred the spirit of community and renewed the American pride that defines South Boston.

For his lifelong dedication to community, his steadfast leadership, and his tireless efforts to uplift the neighborhood he loves, the South Boston Citizens’ Association proudly presents the Joe Moakley Outstanding Citizen Award to Robert “Bobby” Ferrara.

Rich Linehan

The South Boston Citizens’ Association (SBCA), led by President Tom McGrath and the Executive Board, is proud to announce that Richard “Richie” Linehan has been selected as the recipient of the 2026 John W. McCormack Award for Public Service. This prestigious honor recognizes Richie’s 30 years of dedicated public service and his unwavering commitment to the South Boston community.

Richie began his distinguished career with the Massachusetts Trial Court on October 31, 1994, as a Court Officer in Suffolk Superior Court. In 2002, he was elected President of the Suffolk Superior Court Officers Association. In 2004, he played a key leadership role in the successful merger of three separate Court Officer unions into one unified body under NAGE Local 458, where he served as Executive Board Member and Treasurer from 2004 to 2014.

His leadership within the court system continued to grow. In 2014, Richie was appointed Assistant Chief Court Officer, and in 2018, he was promoted to Chief Court Officer, a position he held until his recent retirement. Throughout his career, he earned the respect of colleagues and the community alike for his professionalism, integrity, and steady leadership.

Committed to lifelong learning, Richie returned to school in 2005 after a 25-year hiatus and graduated from Salem State University in 2014 with a degree in Criminal Justice.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Richie has devoted decades to coaching and mentoring young athletes throughout South Boston and neighboring communities. His coaching career spans generations, including: · South Boston Little League (1996–2002) · South Boston Youth Hockey League (1993–2000) · Dorchester Pop Warner (1996– 1997) · South Boston Pop Warner (1998–2002) · Don Bosco Football (1983– 1987) · Assistant Coach, Curry College Hockey (1988–1990) · Assistant Coach, South Boston High School Hockey (1984– 1994) · Head Coach, South Boston High School Hockey (2003– 2009) A graduate of South Boston High School and Salem State University, Richie has made a lasting impact on countless individuals and families, both on and off the ice and field.

Family remains at the heart of Richie’s life. He is married to Karen Flaherty and is a proud father to his daughters Kaitlin, Cortney, and Blake, and his son Dennis. He is also a devoted grandfather to 4 grandchildren.

T he 2026 Joh n W. McCormack Award for Public Service will be formally presented at the 146th Annual Evacuation Day Banquet on March 13, 2026, at the Thomas Menino Convention Center. The evening will bring together community leaders, friends, and neighbors to celebrate Richie’s extraordinary c a reer a nd his enduring contributions to South Boston.

T h rou g h h is dec ade s of ser vice, leadership, and mentorship, R ichie Linehan truly embodies the spirit of public service and the proud traditions of our community.

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THURSDAY MARCH 12, 2026

May luck be our companion May friends stand by our side May history remind us all Of Ireland’s faith and pride May God bless all with happiness May love and faith abide.

Happy St. Patrick’s Day! Congressman & Mrs.

Stephen F. Lynch and family

Paid for by Lynch for Congress Committee. Nancy Conroy, Treasurer

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THURSDAY MARCH 12, 2026

Letter to the Editor

Zero Tolerance for the Out-of-Control Behavior at the Parade Letter To: Rob McCarron, President Associated Independent Colleges & Universities of Massachusetts (AI CUM) Mary Bourque, Exect1tive Director Massacht1setts Association of School Superi11tendents (M.A.S.S.)

Dear President McCarron and Director Bourque,

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e write to you a head of the 123nd A nnual St. Patrick’s Day/ Evacuation Day Parade asking for your assistance in ensuring that this tradition remains a family friendly festivity for all. With Parade Day fast approaching, we want to remind visitors to South Boston that there will be zero tolerance for the out-of-control behavior

that the people of South Boston endured last year. So we are seeking your assistance in getting this message to the Boston area college and school district leaders of your association.

For the past two years, a Task Force assembled by Boston City Councilor Ed Flynn and the South Boston Elected Officials (Congressrnan Stephen Lynch, State Senator Nick Collins, a nd St ate R epre s ent at ive David Biele) composed of the South Boston Allied War Vetera ns C ou nci l, Boston Police Department, Boston Fire Department, Massachusetts State Police, MBTA Transit Police, the Suffolk County Sheriff ’s Department and other city and state agencies have conducted monthly preparation meetings.

Our focus has remained on addressing the public safety and quality of life issues that created the inacceptable ‘’anything goes’’

atmosphere last year, including public drink ing, disturbing incidents of violence and assaults that went viral on social media, people on rooftops without a roof deck, overcrowding on roof decks, beer cans thrown at parade marchers, and public urination on resident’s property.

The Task Force is committed to restoring the Evacuation Day & St. Patrick’s Day Parade to a family-friendly event inclusive for our seniors, persons with disabilities, and young children and families - that not only focuses on celebrating a consequential victor y during the American Revolution, but to honor the service and sacrifices of our veterans, Military families and first responders, as well as our proud immigrant heritage.

The Task Force has also worked to adjust the parade to an earlier start time at 11:30 a.m. and developed strategies to address public drinking and underage alcohol smuggling via the MBTA. A lt hough t he Cit y of Boston continues to face law enforcement staffing challenges, additional support from partner agencies will supplement the Sincerely,

public safety presence. Personnel will be stationed at key locations such as Medal of Honor Park, the site of the nation’s first Vietnam Veterans Memorial, where serious incidents have occurred in the past. Boston Fire Department Commissioner Paul Burke has confirmed that enforcement of roof-deck capacity limits will take place. The Massachusetts A lcoholic Beverages Control C om m ission (A BCC) a nd Boston Licensing Board will also work with Boston Police, bars, and package stores to prevent underage a lcohol pmcha ses during Parade Day weekend.

As Elected Officials, we have given our full support to public safety officials to enforce the law to keep the community safe. We ask that you assist us in communicating this message directly to all of the Boston area College Presidents and High School Sttperintendents so that they understand the public safety protocols in place for South Boston at the annual St. Patrick’s Day /Evacuation Day Parade and the consequences for their students if they break the law. Thank you for your attention in this matter.

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THURSDAY MARCH 12, 2026

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Labor of Pride: The Union Workers Who Make the St. Patrick’s Day Breakfast Possible

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ach year, the St. Patrick’s Day Breakfast fills the Ironworkers Union Hall in South Boston with elected officials, community leaders, and guests gathered to celebrate one of the city’s most recognizable traditions. Behind the scenes, preparing the hall for that moment requires an enormous amount of work.

Hundreds of meals must be prepared and served, the room must be arranged with tables, chairs, and staging, and the lighting, sound, and broadcast infrastructure must be installed so the program can reach audiences across television, radio, and online platforms.

None of that happens without the union workforce that builds, supports, and operates the event from start to finish.

Union members begin preparing the Ironworkers Union Hall well before the first guest arrives. Crews assemble the event space, coordinate logistics, and prepare the hall to host a full morning of programming.

Broadcast teams rig lighting, sound, and stage equipment to ensure the event can be carried live on television, radio, and online.

“Boston has a long and proud history of union labor, and that tradition is deeply connected to the St. Patrick’s Day Breakfast,” said Senator Collins. “The union members who help make this

Members of UNITE HERE Local 26 gather following last year’s St. Patrick’s Day Breakfast after preparing and serving hundreds of meals for guests at the annual South Boston tradition. breakfast possible do it with pride and professionalism. Their craft is part of what makes this event special and allows it to happen year after year, and we would not have it any other way. The union way.”

Members of UNITE HERE Local 26 gather following last year’s St. Patrick’s Day Breakfast after preparing and serving hundreds of meals for guests at the annual South Boston tradition.

Members of U NITE HERE Local 26 prepare and serve the breakfast itself and ensure every guest is taken care of throughout the morning.

“We are proud to work with the leadership of UNITE HERE Local 26 to identify a union caterer in Seasons Catering,” Senator Collins added. “They have been a pleasure to work with and have brought the quality and professionalism that we know comes with union servers and bartenders who earn good wages and benefits because of the union’s

representation and exercising their rights to collectively bargain.”

Iron Workers Local 7, which hosts the event at its South Boston hall, plays a central role in making the Breakfast possible each year.

Beyond providing the venue that has become synonymous with the event, Local 7 members help prepare the hall and take great pride in hosting a tradition that has become a fixture of South Boston’s St. Patrick’s Day celebration.

“Ironworkers Local 7 is proud to play a role in hosting the St. Patrick’s Day Breakfast each year,” said Vincent Coyle Jr., business manager for Union Ironworkers Local 7. “This event has become a storied South Boston tradition, and it is an honor for our union hall to serve as the home for it. Our members take great pride in helping make it happen, and we always look forward to seeing the community come together and the great show that is put on every year.”

Behind the scenes, members of

IATSE Local 11 handle the technical production that brings the Breakfast to life and to audiences far beyond South Boston. Their crews rig lighting, install and operate sound systems, and coordinate the staging and broadcast elements that allow the program to air live across multiple television networks, radio stations, and online platforms.

The Breakfast is also sponsored by labor unions whose partnership helps make the event possible each year. Support from the Boston Carmen’s Union, the Firefighters Unions, and partners across the Boston Building Trades Unions reflects the deep connection between organized labor and this longstanding tradition.

Together, the collaboration between union trades, hospitality workers, broadcast professionals, and union partners ensures the St. Patrick’s Day Breakfast continues to run smoothly year after year while maintaining a tradition that reflects both the spirit of South Boston and the city’s deep ties to organized labor.

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THURSDAY MARCH 12, 2026

Bowl-A-Rama

Biele Family Rep. David Biele Rosemarie Biele Daughter Rosalie Biele

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THURSDAY MARCH 12, 2026

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Safety, Controls, and Public Behavior for the 2026 Parade

by Rick Winterson

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t was important to hear about the many precautions being taken this year, in order to ensure that the 2026 St. Patrick’s/Evacuation Day Parade proceeds safely, efficiently, and conveniently. A final update meeting on all public aspects of this year’s Parade was held in the Mass Bay Credit Union on Monday evening at 6 p.m. Our elected officials, City of Boston departments, and interested South Boston residents all took part.

District 2 City Councilor Ed Flynn opened the meeting, speaking of how he anticipated the Parade. He also cautioned everyone that the misbehavior experienced in prior Parades would not be tolerated. He was followed by State Sen. Nick Collins, who stressed the importance of good conduct before, during, and after the 2026 Parade. Congressman Steve Lynch then took the f loor to say that he values the historic aspects of the Parade, while emphasizing the importance of crowd behavior.

Rep. David Biele presented his own thoughts about having a successful and peaceful Parade.

Councilor-at-large Erin Murphy also spoke of crowd behavior.

Members of the Boston Police Department then discussed their Parade assignments. The necessary traffic barriers will be erected in advance of the Parade, which will step off promptly at 11:30 a.m. this Sunday, March 15.

Police Officers from every Boston stationhouse will be present all along the Parade route. Please be reminded that this year’s Parade will begin at Andrew Square and then disband at Broadway Station.

The Boston Fire Department spoke of their role in maintaining crowd safety, followed by an EMT representative. The BFD emphasized that all rooftop viewing was forbidden. And everyone concerned spoke of the need to completely avoid drunken, alcoholic behavior.

Two MBTA representatives spoke of the “T” schedule on Parade Day. For example, to avoid the Broadway Parade route, they’ll be running shuttle buses to City Point directly from South Station.

Brian Ahern, Senior Vice President of the South Boston Allied War Veteran Council (the SBAWVC), gave a rundown on their Parade plans. City Hall Liaison Lydia

Polaski spoke of the City’s plans for the Parade, mentioning that bars and package stores will close late in the afternoon on Sunday. Andrew Square Civic Association (ASCA) President Linda Zablocki expressed both

her thanks for and her concerns about the Parade beginning in Andrew Square this year.

We are certainly anticipating the Parade on Sunday, as well as supporting the need for good crowd behavior.

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THURSDAY MARCH 12, 2026

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Seniors Are Joyfully Saluted in 2026 Event

by Rick Winterson

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he yearly Senior Salute in South Boston has now become a truly firm tradition. It is given annually by the South Boston Citizens’ Association (the SBCA). The Salute is an integral part of our Parade Season – a Parade that celebrates both St. Patrick’s Day and Boston’s Evacuation Day. The former is an Irish tradition here, of course; the latter commemorates a Revolutionary War event that was George Washington’s first victory. The Senior Salute is always held on the Saturday before our Parade weekend. The 2026 Salute took place in the Curley Center’s Public Room overlooking Carson Beach.

Over 200 Seniors attended their 2026 Salute. The Curley Center was jam-packed and the crowd overflowed into the K Street corridor. The corned-beef-and-cabbage dinner was accompanied by a constant hum of joyful conversation. The non-stop program of song, dance, continuous raffles, and greetings from our elected officials generated applause that never stopped..

Just outside the Curley’s Public Room, a booth took photographs of the Seniors – solo or in small groups. The booth was decorated

with a life-size inflatable (and smiling) leprechaun. Right next to the booth, the City of Boston set up an “Age Strong Commission” table, which was staffed by Edzani, the Commission’s Communications Coordinator. The literature he passed out was called “Age Strong” and included a free monthly magazine entitled “Boston Seniority”. A poster by the table listed eight key services available to older adults in Boston – aid with food, housing, and transportation. Along with necessary care and ways to save.

Many of South Boston’s elected officials attended and spoke at the Senior

Salute. Every one of them complimented the Seniors on their family lives and contributions to the community of South Boston in years past. Mayor Wu brought her daughter Mira with her, as did State Rep. David Biele with young Rosalie.

Stephen Lynch, Ed Flynn, Erin Murphy, and Dave sang “When Irish Eyes Are Smiling” for the crowd. In Mayor Wu ‘s remarks, she congratulated the Seniors and reminded them of the services available from the City of Boston. All of the elected officials present then joined in and sang a loudly enthusiastic rendering of “Southie Is My Hometown”! It was a real celebration of Seniors.

Recognition was accorded to the SBCA’s Tom and Cathleen McGrath.

An award was presented to the Families of Tom and Eddie Butler. Music was performed by Curragh’s Fancy – Bob, Mike, and Dave. Dancing by Peggy Woods’ dancers followed. Constant raffles took place throughout – notable gifts included afghans of views in Washington D.C. Special recognition is due to all the many volunteers who arranged, took part in, and served the lunch during the 2026 Senior Salute, which took place in the Curley Community Center over a cloudy but beautiful view of Carson Beach.

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THURSDAY MARCH 12, 2026

H A P P Y

Saint Patrick's Day

Céad Míle Fáílte Erin Murphy E rinforB oston.com

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THURSDAY MARCH 12, 2026

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Parking and Street Closures on Parade Day Saint Patrick’s Day Parade and Road Race – Sunday, March 15, 2026 The annual St. Patrick’s Day parade will be held on Sunday, March 15, 2026 along the “historical” route but traveling in the reverse direction, using East Sixth Street instead of East Fifth Street. The route will be Dorchester Street to Telegraph Street to Thomas Park (southerly arm), to G Street, to East Sixth Street, to K Street to East Fourth Street to P Street to East Broadway to West Broadway. The streets listed here will be closed to through-traffic for the duration of the event.

Parking restrictions will be in effect throughout Sunday on the following streets: Dorchester Avenue – Both sides, from Gillette Park to Old Colony Avenue, and both sides, from Damrell Street to Kemp Street Boston Street – Both sides, from Dorchester Street heading southerly to Ellery Street Preble Street – Both sides, from Dorchester Avenue to Old Colony Avenue Dexter Street – Both sides, from Dorchester Avenue to Ellery Street Dorchester Street – Both sides, from Telegraph Street to Dorchester Avenue Damrell Street – Both sides, from Old Colony Avenue to Dorchester Avenue Telegraph Street – Both sides, from Thomas Park to Dorchester Street Thomas Park – Both sides of southerly arm (normal traffic flow), from Telegraph Street to G Street G Street – Both sides, from Story Street to #96 G Street East Sixth Street – Both sides, from K Street to G Street K Street – Both sides, from East Fourth Street to East Sixth Street East Fourth Street – Both sides, from P Street to K Street P Street – Both sides, from East Broadway to East Fourth Street East Broadway – Both sides, from Dorchester Street to P Street West Broadway – Both sides, from Dorchester Avenue to Dorchester Street A Street – Both sides, from Binford Street to West Broadway West Second Street – Both sides, from Dorchester Avenue to A Street Binford Street – Both sides, from A Street heading northwesterly to end at 45 Binford Street East First Street – North side (opposite M Street Park), from driveway out of the MBTA Bus Layover opposite the basketball court to M Street West Fourth Street – Both sides, from B Street to A Street West Sixth Street – Both sides, from F Street to Dorchester Street (it has been requested to have the area cleared two (2) hours before the 11:00am race F Street – Southeast side (odd side – Boys & Girls Club side), West Sixth Street to Bowen Street The Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) has implemented parking bans for various agency-managed parking lots and along a section of Day Boulevard in South Boston on Sunday, March 15, 2026, until 10 p.m. The regular overnight parking restrictions (10 p.m. – 7 a.m.) along Day Boulevard from I Street to Castle Island will be strictly enforced. Signage is posted throughout the area and should be followed.

The following roadway and parking lots will be closed:

Day Boulevard at Broadway (Farragut Statue) no street parking Carson Beach Edward J. McCormack bathhouse, north and south parking lots Pleasure Bay parking lot Murphy Rink parking lot

All vehicles not displaying a South Boston resident parking sticker will be asked to exit the Castle Island parking lot before 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 14. Due to parking restrictions created by the parade, DCR will accommodate vehicles with valid South Boston resident parking stickers at Castle Island from 7:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 14, through 10:00 p.m. on Monday, March 16. After 7:00 a.m. on Sunday, March 16, the lot will open to parking for all visitors. The Castle Island parking lot will be staffed overnight through Sunday. All vehicles will be checked for South Boston Resident Parking Stickers between 7:00 p.m. Saturday and 7:00 a.m. Sunday. Non-resident vehicles will be allowed to park at Castle Island after 7:00 a.m. on Sunday. All cars will be allowed to park overnight on Sunday into Monday, March 16. Normal Castle Island parking restrictions return on Monday, March 17.

Discounted Parking South Boston Residents: with the Evacuation Day/St Patrick’s Day Parade, there will be reduced rate parking for the 12 Drydock Ave garage in Flynn Marine Park with a SB resident parking sticker. Available Saturday 3/14 at 6pm to Sunday 3/15 at 8pm

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PARADE GOERS AND LOCAL BUSINESS OWNERS All package stores in South Boston will close at 4:00 PM on parade day.

Pouring establishments (Sec. 12 licenses) will stop admitting patrons after 6:30 PM, cease alcohol service at 7:00 PM, and all guests must leave by 7:30 PM. The parade will begin at 11:30 AM; streets will be cleared and reopened immediately after the event concludes.

The Boston Police Department will enforce alcohol laws strictly, including prohibiting public drinking, underage drinking, and open containers of alcohol in public spaces. Offenders may face arrest and alcohol seizure. Any form of violence or disruptive behavior will not be tolerated. Parents or guardians are encouraged to accompany young people attending the event.

All package stores in South Boston will close at 4:00 PM on parade day. Pouring establishments (Sec. 12 licenses) will stop admitting patrons after 6:30 PM, cease alcohol service at 7:00 PM, and all guests must leave by 7:30 PM. Hosts of private parties along the parade route are responsible for their guests’ behavior.

Roof decks, balconies, and porches must adhere to occupancy limits, and access to non-designated roofs is prohibited.

Ensure restaurants and gathering spots do not become overcrowded and that exits remain clear for safety.

Public urination is illegal; the number of public restrooms has been significantly increased for the event.

In case of medical emergencies, or if someone requires assistance, call 9-1-1 immediately.

´ Slainte!

Happy St. Patrick’s Day to our friends and neighbors, from the MCCA. John Barros I NT E R I M E XECU TI V E D I RECTO R

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Details for the 2026 Evacuation Day/St. Patrick’s Day Parade The Allied War Veterans Council of South Boston is proud to participate in the Evacuation 250 celebrations with our annual parade.

The 2026 parade will take place on March 15, 2026, beginning at 11 :30 AM from Andrew Square. This year’s route follows the traditional path with two minor adjustments, mirroring the historic route used by Henry Knox to transport the cannon that fortified Dorchester Heights during the British evacuation of Boston. The parade will use East 6th Street instead of East 5th, making it easier for larger apparatus to maneuver.

Depart Andrew Square and proceed up Dorchester Street, bearing onto Telegraph Street.

Continue right onto Thomas Park to G Street.

Proceed down East 6th Street to K Street and turn left.

At K Street and East 4th Street, turn right, passing Thomas J. Fitzgerald VFW Post.

Continue along East 4th Street to P Street, passing the Michael J. Perkins American Legion Post.

Turn left onto P Street, then left again onto East Broadway.

Pause at Medal of Honor Park for the Chief Marshal to lay a wreath at the nation’s first Vietnam Memorial.

Continue down East Broadway to West Broadway, passing the Martin F. McDonough American Legion Post.

The parade will end at A Street and West Broadway.

Medal of Honor Park (Family-Friendly Zone) Medal of Honor Park has been designated a family-friendly zone. Parade sponsors will have activation areas and the Massachusetts Army National Guard will set up trucks and recruiters in the park for a “Touch a Truck” event, providing a safe environment for families and children.

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South Boston Community Health Center Wrapped up 2025 on a High Note

As 2026 unfolds, the team at the South Boston Community Health Center has much to celebrate. 2025 was marked by expanded services, strong community partnerships, and a continued commitment to delivering high-quality, excellent care to the people of South Boston and surrounding neighborhoods. Throughout the year, SBCHC remained focused on their mission of providing accessible, comprehensive primary care for individuals and families at every stage of life. Providers, nurses, behavioral health specialists, and support staff worked together to ensure that patients received coordinated, patient-centered care—from preventive screenings and chronic disease management to urgent care and mental health services.

2025 by the Numbers The 2025 stats reflect the dedication of the Health Center’s staff and the trust of the community: 21,645 patients served across all programs 6,000 NEW patients added last year to SBCHC 75,306 visits delivered throughout the year 66,890 incoming calls handled by our front desk Patient satisfaction score is 94% - the highest in 10 years Pharmacy satisfaction score is 95% - the highest in the Northeast 2670 free shuttle rides provided to our patients Thousands of preventive screenings and vaccinations to keep the community healthy The year also brought moments of celebration for the SBCHC team.

Staff members participated in national health awareness campaigns, community initiatives, and staff appreciation events that highlighted the dedication and compassion that define South Boston Community Health Center’s culture.

As health care continues to evolve, SBCHC remains proud to serve as South Boston’s neighborhood experts in primary care, delivering care that is both clinically excellent and deeply rooted in the community.

Looking ahead to 2026, the Center is energized by the opportunities to expand access to care, strengthen partnerships, and continue investing in innovative programs that support the health and well-being of the community.

For nearly five decades, the Health Center has been a cornerstone of South Boston. Thanks to the dedication of its staff and the trust of its patients SBCHC closed out 2025 stronger than ever and ready for the year ahead.

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Councilor Flynn Files Hearing Order On Potholes In Boston

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oston City Councilor Ed Flynn filed an order for a hearing to discuss the status of addressing potholes in the City of Boston. Potholes are a persistent issue on roadways throughout Boston. With warmer temperatures ahead, it’s critical to discuss next steps on addressing street deterioration caused by freeze–thaw cycles and heavy traffic.

Pot hole s cre ate s a fe t y hazards for pedestrians, drivers, and cyclists, and can cause significant damage to vehicles and infrastructure. Potholes a lso create signif icant risk s for persons with disabilities.

Residents across District 2 and the city have reported potholes on Congress Street, East and West 8th Streets, Lawrence Street, Harrison Avenue, and West Newton Street. Residents a re enc ou ra ged to repor t potholes to 311 to ensure the City knows which potholes are

the highest priority. Through Imagine Boston 2030, the City has established goals related to infrastructure maintenance and roadway quality. In 2025, the Cit y f illed over 4,000 pot hole s, dow n f rom t he 7,000 potholes filled in 2023.

“Paving our roads and filling in potholes is a critical part of the nuts and bolts of city government, and our focus needs to remain on addressing local safety and quality of life issues,” said Councilor Flynn. “Understanding the City’s benchmarks for pothole repa ir, preventative street maintenance, data tracking, and long-term roadway resurfacing strategies will help ensure that Boston continues to meet its infrastructure and public and pedestrian safety goals.”

For more information, ple a se c ont ac t C ou nci lor Flynn’s office at 617-635-3203 or E d . F l y n n @ B o s t on . g ov.

The City of Boston’s Planning Department invites residents to participate in planning that will help shape the future of the City.

You can sign up to receive Planning Department emails and learn about opportunities to get involved here: bosplans.org/GetInvolved

BostonPlans.org

@BostonPlans

Teresa Polhemus, Executive Director/Secretary

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hank you, Professor A llison, for telling us about the history of Evacuation Day! A Big Tha nk You to History Professor and Author Robert Allison, from Suffolk University, and Mrs. Phyllis Allison, for coming to South Boston Catholic Academy to speak with the students in grades

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South Boston Catholic Academy News 3, 4, 5 and 6 and telling us all about the true meaning/history of Evacuation Day. In South Boston we not only celebrate St. Patrick’s Day on March 17, we also celebrate Evacuation Day. Evacuation Day commemorates t he British army’s withdrawal from Boston on March 17, 1776, following a successful, strategic standoff by

George Washington, Colonel Henry Knox and the Continental Army at Dorchester Heights. It marks the first major American victory of the Revolutionary War, forcing the British to abandon the city, which they never occupied again. Professor Allison brought Mr. Jack Cattie, a volunteer Suffolk alum, who portrayed Henry Knox’s younger brother

Michael. He also brought a replica of a cannon used during this Revolutionary War. The students loved having a chance to learn more about South Boston History and to ask questions about the historical event that led up to celebrating Evacuation Day. Thank you to Mrs. Therese Evans, Intermediate Literacy Coach, for organizing this event.

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