SBOL_06_02_2022

THE PRINT EDITION

THURSDAY JUNE 2, 2022

VOLUME XIX- ISSUE 74

Summer Safety Concerns Addressed at DCR Meeting

By Ginger DeShaney

A

t last week’s South Boston Su m mer Sa fet y Meet ing , the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) unveiled detailed plans for designated swimming areas at Pleasure Bay, discussed the investments being made in its properties (see sidebar), and provided an overview of staffing and operations.

The topic of the unruly crowds at Carson Beach over the weekend of May 21 was also discussed. The DCR meeting took place before the chaos at the beach over Memorial Day weekend.

“We want to talk about what we’re doing to invest in these properties and in our plans for offering people a safe and fun experience this summer,” said DCR Acting Commissioner Stephanie Cooper.

Senator Nick Collins and

Representative David Biele thanked law enforcement officials, including Massachusetts State Police, Boston Police, UMass Police, and MBTA Transit Police, for their work in controlling the situation at Carson Beach.

“What happened … is unacceptable,” Collins said about the May 21 incident.

“We want to make sure that we have a safe summer.”

Added Biele, “It wasn’t right what happened. Everybody who frequents our beaches should feel safe and that kind of behavior is unacceptable.”

Biele and Collins are working to ensure there is adequate funding and resources for state parks, including a dedicated funding stream for patrols along state roadways and state beaches. “So we are doing what we can to make sure that our public safety officials have the resources they need to make sure that everybody is able to enjoy our beaches, enjoy

our parks, and that there’s no disruption to quality of life for folks in neighborhoods,” Biele said.

“Sa fet y is our top priority. It’s part of everything we do,” sa id C ooper.

Massachusetts State Police Captain Mike Smith said more surveillance light towers were put up at the McCormack Bathhouse, which seems to be where most of the issues are. And there is dedicated money for

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adequate staffing at the beach.

“We’re committed to making this a priority,” said Smith.

“This is priority No. 1 for us.”

A couple people were concerned about a Summer Splash event that was advertised for Castle Island on June 23. Smith said no permits had been issued and the organizer was going to advertise that the event is not taking place.

Other attendees brought up Continued on Page 2

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THURSDAY JUNE 2, 2022

SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM

Continued from Page 1

Meeting alcohol and marijuana consumption on the beaches. Smith said there’s a zero tolerance policy and if people see this happening on the beach to call the barracks and they will send someone down.

Designated swimming areas

The main reason for the meeting was to discuss the new proposed designated swimming areas of Pleasure Bay, said Nick Gove, Deputy Commissioner of Operations.

The Department of Public Health reported 54 drowning fatalities in the Commonwealth in 2021; 65% of those took place in a natural body of water, Gove said. One of those fatalities was the tragic drowning on July 1 last year in Pleasure Bay. The plan creates two designated swimming areas in Pleasure Bay, said Jim Esposito, Aquatics Director.

Area 1: Pleasure Bay Beach from Head Island Causeway to Evans Field (marked with buoys).

Seasonal lifeguard services will be provided with 2 lifeguard chairs.

Area 2: Castle Island Children’s Beach between the Harry McDonough Sailing Center and the Signal Corp Building (marked with ropes and buoys).

DCR will provide seasonal lifeguard service here if it can hire additional lifeguards to staff at least one lifeguard chair here.

Designated swimming areas have signs posted at all times during the season that communicate water quality and when lifeguards are not on duty. Swimming is not allowed unless a site is a designated swimming area, Esposito said, noting designated swimming areas can be guarded or unguarded.

The new designated swimming areas will open for swimming on Saturday, June 18, and continue until Labor Day if staffing permits.

Swimming will be prohibited in Pleasure Bay except within the designated swimming areas and

open-water swimming will be prohibited. Non-motorized boats (canoes, kayaks) and watersport activities (kite- and windsurfing) will not be permitted inside the designated areas.

A launch area will be created for non-motorized boats and watersport activities adjacent to the Head Island Causeway parking area.

Sailboats, non-motorized boats, and up to two rescue vehicles will be permitted to launch from the Harry McDonough Sailing Center docks. DCR will permit HMSC to rope and buoy a designated swimming area from their docks for HMSC members/students.

Patricia Reid, Vice President of the Castle Island Association, was concerned that the plan closes off a section of the beach near the parking lot that has the handicap ramp.

Dan Cushing, Director of Public Engagement, told Reid that someone would follow up with her on her concerns.

Staffing and operations

DCR performs regular sanitation and maintenance services at all of its South Boston recreational facilities, including daily litter collection, trash pickup, street sweeping, supplemental street sweeping (which doesn’t require parking bans), beach raking, and mowing, said Gove.

Ten seasonal positions are open in South Boston for the 2022 season, “which we think is going to be a significant improvement that will

allow us to adequately staff all of the South Boston parks and beaches, seven days a week,” said Gove.

DCR has also acquired $250,000 in new moving and maintenance equipment.

The Castle Island gates are open daily from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Reid asked if there would be a matron for the bathrooms at Castle Island. “When we don’t have the matron, that restroom really gets to be a mess,” she said. “When there is a matron, there is at least some control over it. So is it possible to have staffing to include a matron?”

Susan Hamilton, Assistant Deputy Commissioner of State Parks, said the hiring process is underway, but at this point, there is no dedicated matron; however the bathrooms will be cleaned regularly.

The recording and slide deck can be found at https://www. mass.gov/event/south-bostonsummer-safety-meeting-202205-26t180000-0400-2022-0526t193000-0400 You can submit comments until June 7 here: https://www.mass.

SIDEBAR DCR Outlines South Boston Improvement Projects DCR Acting Commissioner Stephanie Cooper provided an overview of upcoming projects.

Near-term improvements (by June 30): Evans Field maintenance repairs (fence and gate replacement, new pathway, field aeration): $120,000 Chain link fence installation/repairs in and around Sugar Bowl: $30,000 Sidewalk replacement from Babe Ruth Drive to Old Colony Avenue at Preble Circle: $400,000 Longer-term improvements (FY23+) Design, permitting, and repair of sinkholes along causeway to Sugar Bowl: TBD Design, permitting, and construction of new comfort station at Castle Island: $2 million+ Design, permitting, and rehabilitation of the Signal Corp Building: $1.2 million Repair/replace Castle Island sea wall historic railings: $500,000 Construction of new Castle Island Playground: $600,000 Design and permitting of Pickle Barrel building rehabilitation Attendees on the call had specific questions regarding the projects, but upcoming public meetings will provide more in-depth information and allow for more input.

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THURSDAY JUNE 2, 2022

3

“Threshold”: Support SPOKE on June 16

by Rick Winterson

M

ichael Dowling, Executive Director of SPOKE (once known as “Medicine Wheel”), along with SPOKE’s Operations Director Richard Dinsmore and Director of Development Susan Krause, invite you to a gala event – a true party get-together – on Thursday evening, June 16. This event is called “Threshold”. It will be held in the Anne M. Lynch Homes at Old Colony, in the central building now located at 265 East Ninth Street (corner of Patterson Way). In the future, this building will be converted into SPOKE’s creative center, hence the event name “Threshold”. SPOKE’s twelve-person Board of Directors, led by Board Chair Rohit Chandra and Event Chairs Keith Marion and Letta Neely, join in this invitation to attend “Threshold”.

“Threshold” will be a really joyful party. Sweets, savories, and cocktails will be served all during the evening of the 16th. A meaningful Honors Program is planned, along with a performance by the noted Kairos Dance Theater. The Sunset Kings will provide the evening’s music; they play one-ofa-kind rhythmic improvisations that we’ll call Jazz-Rock. Local

“Hand in Hand”, SPOKE’s project joining community youth with Boston police officers.

Architectural renderings of the proposed SPOKE creative center. photog r apher/me d i a e x p er t Michael Indresano (33 A Street) has crafted a striking video for you to enjoy; it will provide you with a short, accurate picture of SPOK E’s many activities.

Among these are the landscaping and greening of the acre-sized No Man’s Land in back of the High School, as well as a really unique program called Hand in Hand. Hand in Hand joins SPOKE youth one-on-one with Boston police officers to create sculptures that are truly “Hand in Hand”. In the coming year, Hand in Hand will be brought into Boston’s schools. While you are enjoying “Threshold”, check out SPOKE’s new, epic effort called “A Thread Runs Through It” – as many as 100,000 people (!) might eventually take part.

SPOKE’s Honors Program salutes Barbara Krakow this year. Ms. Krakow is a prominent Boston gallery executive and a thought leader in the world of fine art. As the long-time President of Krakow Witkin Gallery (10 Newbury Street), she was a key figure in dealing with Boston’s AIDS epidemic and still sponsors many related compassionate activities. Established artists who are her clients include Sol LeWitt, Kiki Smith, Jenny Holzer, and Agnes Martin.

For “Threshold ” tickets,

contact Director of Development Susan Krause at 617-970-5379 or skrause@mwproductions.org.

PLEASE NOTE: Parking is limited in the Old Colony area, so we suggest you use Lyft,

Uber, a cab, or public transport.

Perhaps you’d like to take a short walk – the location of “Threshold” is just 10 minutes on foot from the A ndrew Square Red Line “T” Station.

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THURSDAY JUNE 2, 2022

SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM

Voices in Healthcare: Jocelyn Guggenheim

By Carol Masshardt

T

here are many options for talented nurse practitioners in a field with great need and short supply, and South Boston Community Health Center’s Jocelyn Guggenheim, RN, MS, CPNP, could be a leader in any of them.

“I started eleven years ago as a NP student and refused to leave,” she joked, adding “it is really close to the truth, and I didn’t even know then how much my role would change.” Clearly focused, practical, and analytic, a rare combination of skills, it is no mystery why she also was appointed as Chief Operating Officer in October 2021.

A Brandeis University graduate with an English degree, she went on to Northeastern University for a challenging combined RN/NP program, and worked in a variety of intensive, hospital-based positions in pediatric nursing. She honors each opportunity she has had, but the health center became the compelling core of her work, and where she

devotes her heart and mind each day.

“It is a special place, and I knew it when I walked in. I met with Alison Marshall those many years ago, and it was the way she talked about it that was different. It’s fantastic work, and then and now, it attracts people with special energy,” she said. The community, the nature of relationships with patients and providers and the team kept her there and she grew and learned from patients in a dynamic environment, and then COVID-19 struck.

“I’m not sure there was anything that didn’t change,” she said in a unique way of mentally scanning and examining many details of multiple systems. “It forced us to re-think everything, waiting rooms, PPE, questions we asked, treatment provided, staffing, who could be on site and how to evaluate our own health and safety for others. Coming to work with minor symptoms was something we may not have thought much about before, but the whole barometer changed,” she said.

Known and comfortable practices transformed to new and untested ways of how to best operate.

“We cancelled all appointments one day, and tried to re-configure physical space and the processes,” she explained. Regardless of the merits of such innovations, she was not

Jocelyn Guggenheim getting the vaccine in the midst of COVID Crisis. surprised at patient reactions knowing full well what makes the place tick.

“Patients just showed up anyway!

It’s a second home for many and when they said,” I want to see my doctor” they meant it, and we couldn’t just shut down or control every aspect of how things functioned. People were scared. If you’re a patient here you want answers, and you want them from the people you know.” she spoke. “So, we did the best we could and kept thinking about how we could best prevent issues that would require an ER and provide the best outcomes.”

Jocelyn Guggenheim was both the English major writing and communicated protocols while very much the nurse thinking carefully about each patient, and all while having two young children at home.

“We didn’t know as much as we know, and it still changes. So, at the beginning we called every one of the highest risk patients every day. The nurses could hear when someone wasn’t breathing correctly and that some just weren’t ok. You feel the weight of that,” she said softly and purposefully. “It is like a family, and for some, we were it.”

Telehealth became a way of doing some healthcare and was a relief to those who had to work and avoid the ever-present parking issues, but social justice and equity is another guiding principle to the work. “Of course, for some telehealth is better and for some not. There are families without reliable internet who may

need the care the most,” she said.

Seeing the work pace and quality of attention of this professional one surely has a sense of how others benefit from her impressive skill.

But she is equally articulate and perceptive about her own changes as she is about systems and patients.

“I was so tired, but it was so gratifying, she said, recounting the navigation of testing and vaccines.

“The Pfizer vials were an iconic moment,” she said of the unknown vaccine for a mysterious illness in a community expecting the best of care.

“I became more resilient. It showed me I could do really hard things and also that I had to take care of myself,” she said Think about quitting? ‘No, I couldn’t leave my team” she said in a split second. Along with Nisha Thakkar, MD, and nursing team of Andrea Smith, and Elizabeth Martin and teams upon teams, the glue was the fact that “we were in the trenches together,” she said.

And so, with the support of her husband, Evan, and the amazingly resourceful team of those in every position at the South Boston Community Health Center, it became clearer than ever why this model of care helps neighbors regardless of status and health. It is the patients, creativity and team that compels Jocelyn Guggenheim to look at each patient carefully while preparing for ever more responsive ways of working at a place she knew she couldn’t leave the first time she entered.

SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM

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THURSDAY JUNE 2, 2022

Boston City Council President Ed Flynn and Iron Workers Local 7 Endorse Ricardo Arroyo for Suffolk County DA

B

oston City Councilor Ricardo Arroyo today announced that his campaign for Suffolk County District Attorney has been endorsed

by Boston City Council President Ed Flynn and Iron Workers Local 7.

In a statement endorsing Councilor A r r o y o, C it y Council President Flynn said: “I am proud to endorse Ricardo Arroyo for Suffolk County DA because he has a proven track record as a City Councilor of building partnerships across Boston in support of smart policies that increase public safety. As a probation off icer at Suffolk Superior Court, I saw f irsthand the importance of d iversion progra m ming.

Ricardo’s experience as a public defender and his commitment to policies that reduce crime while offering diversion and resources where appropriate is what our county needs to build a criminal justice system that holds people accountable while providing paths to rehabilitation and o p p o r t u n i t i e s .”

“R icardo A rroyo is the leader, partner, and District Attorney our unions and workers need and we are proud to endorse him for Suffolk County DA,” said Michael Hess, Business Ma na ger of Iron Workers Local 7, which represents over 3,0 0 0 iron workers across Ne w E n g l a nd . “R ic a rdo’s c om m it me nt to v iole nc e prevention programs that create good paying union jobs will make Suffolk County a safe place to live and work for all.”

“I am deeply honored to be endorsed by City Council Pre sident Fly n n a nd t he h a rd work i n g me mb er s of Iron Workers Local 7,” said Councilor Arroyo, who would be the f irst Latino District Attorney in Ma ssachusetts.

“Today’s endorsements add to the strong and diverse coalition

our campaign has built for a justice system that increases public safety, reduces race and class disparities, while offering hea ling a nd restoration for those who have been harmed.

Ed has been a strong partner in passing policies on the Council t hat increa se f u nd ing for mental health, substance use, and other violence prevention programming. I look forward to continuing to work together to ma int a in reforms t hat have proven to improve the safety of communities across Suffolk County while moving us for ward with justice- and community-centered policies.”

Since launching his c a mpa ign on Febr u a r y 8, Councilor Arroyo has earned endorsement s f rom Boston Mayor Michelle Wu, U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren, U.S. Senator Ed Markey, Former Boston Mayor Kim Janey, State Senator Sonia Cha ng-Dia z, State Senator Sal DiDomenico, State Senator Adam Gomez, State Representative Russell Holmes, State Representative Ni k a Eluga rdo, State Representative Jon Santiago, St ate Repre sent at ive A ndy Vargas, Boston City Councilor Ju l ia Mejia , Boston Cit y Councilor Ruthzee Louijeune, Boston City Councilor Tania Fernandes A nderson, Boston City Councilor Kendra Lara,

Former Boston City Councilor Tito Jack son, Revere Cit y C ou nci lor Ste ve Morabito, Chelsea City Council President R oy Ave l l a ne d a , C he l s e a

Cit y Councilor Enio Lopez, Chelsea C it y Councilor Giovanni Recupero, Chelsea City Councilor Damali Vidot, and UNITE HER E Local 26.

MOH Income Restricted Rental Opportunity - WAITING LIST REOPENING

Wayne at Franklin Hill- Dorchester 30-58 Franklin Hill AVE- 65 units 140-142 American Legion Hwy- 7 units 1

of Units

of bedrooms

19

2-bedroom

Estimated Square Feet

742

MINIMUM INCOMES (set by owner + based on of bedrooms/AMI) # of bedrooms

Minimum Income 50% AMI

Rent

Maximum Income Limit

30% HH Income

50% AMI

built out for mobility impairments

14

MAXIMUM INCOMES (set by funders + based on HH Size/AMI) HH size

1

1

$0

2

2

$0

3

3

$0

4

4

$0

5

5

$0

6 7

50% AMI

$34,050 $38,900 $43,750 $48,600 $52,500 $56,400 $60,300

Applications are available during the application period for 30 days, from 5/16/22 to 6/15/22 To request an online application or to have one sent by email, visit https:/ / / bit.ly/WayneAtFranklinApp or call 617-247-2389 The City of Boston has temporarily canceled the in-person application distribution period. If you cannot complete the application online, please call us at 617-247-2389 to request that we mail you one and to ask us for any support or guidance you might need to complete the application.

We will be holding 2 virtual informational meetings on 5/24 and 5/31 at 5:30 pm through the following link:https:/ / / zoom.us/j/99242640471?pwd=aW85dnhCTEtWaEozYVdqcXpFdlBhUT09.

Meeting ID: 992 42640471 Passcode: q7LbF4 DEADLINE: Applications must be submitted online or postmarked no later than 6/15/22. Mailed to 434 Massachusetts Ave., Suite 300. Boston, MA 02118, Attention: Waitlist Coordinator. ● ● ●

Selection by Lottery.

Asset & Use Restrictions apply.

Preferences Apply.

For more information, language assistance, or reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities, please call 617-247-2389 or email:mjean@cruzcompanies.com

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THURSDAY JUNE 2, 2022

Garden Contest July 13

M

ayor Michelle Wu has announced the 26th annual M ayor’s G a rden C onte s t highlighting the hard work of Boston’s urban gardeners.

T he c ompet it ion prov ide s the perfect opportunit y to recognize the skills of all Boston residents who contribute to the beauty of the city’s landscape.

Boston’s green thumbs have until 11:59 p.m. on Wednesday, Ju ly 13, to submit t heir gardens for award contention.

Judges will fan out across the city visiting finalists the week of July 25. Once the votes are tallied, first place winners will receive the coveted “Golden Trowel” award from Mayor Wu while second and third

place winners will be awarded certif icates. The traditiona l awards ceremony is scheduled to take place in the Boston Public Garden on Monday, August 15.

Gardeners who have won three or more times in the last ten years will be automatically entered into the Hall of Fame.

T hese d isting u ished Ha l lof-Famers are not eligible to enter as contestants but are invited to return as judges.

For more information please call (617) 635-4505. Stay up to date with news, events, and design and construction work in Boston parks by signing up for our email list at bit.ly/Get-Parks-Emails and following our social channels @bostonparksdept on Twitter, Fac ebook, a nd Inst a gra m.

MOH Income Restricted Rental Opportunity - WAITING LIST REOPENING

Wayne at Columbia- Dorchester 6,8,10,10a Bellevue St- 22 units 1461,1463 Blue Hill Ave- 9 units

217,467,471,509 Columbia Rd-46 units 4 Almont St -6 units 1

Estimate d Square Feet

Maximu m Income Limit

6

studios

500

30% HH Income

50% AMI

l

built out for Deaf/hard of hearing —

50

1-bedroom

460-900

30% HH Income

50% AMI

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of bedrooms

of Units

Rent

built out for mobility impairments

19

2-bedroom

774-876

30% HH Income

50% AMI

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2

3-bedroom

798-1060

30% HH Income

50% AMI

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—

2

4-bedroom

1051-1171

30% HH Income

50% AMI

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—

4

5-bedroom

1171-1200

30% HH Income

50% AMI

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—

MINIMUM INCOMES (set by owner + based on of bedrooms/AMI) # of bedrooms

Minimum Income 50% AMI

MAXIMUM INCOMES (set by funders + based on HH Size/AMI) HH size

1

1

$0

2

2

$0

3

3

$0

4

4

$0

5

5

$0

6 7

50% AMI

$34,050 $38,900 $43,750 $48,600 $52,500 $56,400 $60,300

Applications are available during the application period for 30 days, from 5/16/22 to 6/15/22. To request an online application or to have one sent by email visit https://bit.ly/ WayneAtColumbiaApp or call 617-247-2389 The City of Boston has temporarily canceled the in-person application distribution period. If you cannot complete the application online, please call us at 617-247-2389, to request that we mail you one and to ask us for any support or guidance you might need to complete the application.

We will be holding 2 virtual informational meetings on 5/24 and 5/31 at 5:30 pm through the following link: https://zoom.us/j/99242640471?pwd=aW85dnhCTEtWaEozYVdqcXpFdlBhUT09.

Meeting ID: 99242640471 Passcode: q7LbF4 DEADLINE: Applications must be submitted online or postmarked no later than 6/15/22.

Mailed to 434 Massachusetts Ave., Suite 300. Boston, MA 02118, Attention: Waitlist Coordinator. ● ● ●

Selection by Lottery.

Asset & Use Restrictions apply.

Preferences Apply.

For more information, language assistance, or reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities please call 617-247-2389 or lemail:mjean@cruzcompanies.com

SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM

The Celtics by the Numbers

by Rick Winterson The Celtics seventh game victory against the Miami Heat in the 2022 Eastern Conference playoffs has been the best sports news in Boston for a while. Tonight (Thursday), the Celtics will meet the Golden State Warriors in San Francisco at 9 p.m. EDT. It’ll be the first game in the final 2022 NBA Championship Playoff. Some Boston sports writers have opined that the Warriors will take this playoff series. But let’s take an accurate look at some numbers before agreeing.

First of all, the Warriors won 53 games during their regular season – only two games more than the Celts at 51 wins. They really aren’t that much better than the Celts, even if you believe the NBA’s Western Conference is stronger. Furthermore, the Celtics “Beat the Heat” in Miami, who also racked up 53 victories this season.

In addition, in the regular season’s last half (41 games since January 12), the Celtics won 31 of their games and lost just 10. That’s a winning percentage of .755. The Celts played better in the last half of the regular season than any other NBA team, including the Warriors.

Here are the Celts’ three playoff results so far: Erased the Nets (four straight) Beat the Bucks (the reigning NBA champs) Won three games away in Miami Not too shabby!

One final number look-see: Many Boston sports commentators said the Celtics were “lucky” that Jimmy Butler missed his last attempt in Game Seven with the Heat. Well, that simply isn’t true. The Celts ended up winning by 100 to 96 after Marcus Smart sank two foul shots. Even if Butler sank his three, the Celts would have won on Smart’s foul shots, 100-99. Butler’s shot really didn’t matter – the Celts won on their own, fair and square.

SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM

by Rick Winterson

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THURSDAY JUNE 2, 2022

“First Tour” Is a Success

A

long with many, many other things, the operations and pursuits at Fort Independence were abruptly cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This of course included the guided tours of Fort Independence. Except for one ten-day attempt at restoring them, the last tour was taken in the autumn of 2019 – almost three years ago (32 months back, to be exact).

The “First Tour” is the first one since then – it took place at 12 p.m. last Saturday, May 28.

Promptly at noon, the sally port at Fort Independence was opened. The gate keepers let in those who had lined up for the resumption of the tours.

The volunteers organized the visitors in the reception area; the visitors then assembled on the Fort’s Parade Ground to hear introductory remarks given

by Tour Guide Doug Morrill.

Doug then guided the First Tour up the ramp to the walkways along the Fort’s walls.

As the First Tour progressed around these walkways, the views – all of them magnificent – changed from Old Harbor to the President Road to Boston Harbor (including the airport). Interior sights included artillery ranging from a small mortar up to the huge Rodman cannon pointed southwest.

Doug answered questions as he went along. The entire First Tour took about 45 minutes of slowly paced walking around. The children in the tour

really seemed to enjoy the trip around the Fort. The “First Tour” of the Fort was a great success.

Fort Independence is a “real” fort – it protected Boston Harbor in various ways for

nearly 400 years. Guided tours of the Fort will be conducted continuously every Saturday and Sunday until October, from 12 noon to 3 p.m. And these tours are blessedly free to the public.

MOH Income Restricted Rental Opportunity - WAITING LIST REOPENING

Wayne at Schuyler- Dorchester & Roxbury 39 Schuyler St -14 Units / 358-360 Walnut Ave -15 Units 81 Walnut Park- 9 Units / 249 Humboldt Ave- 6 Units 25 Wayne St -9 Units / 35 Wales St -12 Units 548-550 Warren St- 6 Units / 2 Elm Hill Park- 3 Units # of Units

# of bedrooms

Estimated Square Feet

Rent

Maximum Income Limit

# built out for mobility impairments —

1

studios

500

30% HH Income

50% AMI

16

1-bedroom

460-900

30% HH Income

50% AMI

2

46

2-bedroom

774-876

30% HH Income

50% AMI

—

7

3-bedroom

798-1060

30% HH Income

50% AMI

—

4

4-bedroom

1051-1171

30% HH Income

50% AMI

—

Minimum Incomes (set by owner + based on # of bedrooms + Area Median Income (AMI)) Maximum Incomes (set by funders + based on the household size + Area Median Income (AMI)) MINIMUM INCOMES (set by owner + based on # of bedrooms/AMI) # of bedrooms

Minimum Income 50% AMI

1

$0

2

$0

3

$0

4

$0

5

$0

MAXIMUM INCOMES (set by funders + based on HH Size/AMI) HH size

1 2 3 4 5 6 7

50% AMI

$34,050 $38,900 $43,750 $48,600 $52,500 $56,400 $60,300

Applications are available during the application period for 30 days, from 5/16/22 to 6/15/22.

To request an online application or to have one sent by email, visit https://bit.ly/ WayneAtSchuylerApp or call 617-247-2389 The City of Boston has temporarily canceled the in-person application distribution period. If you cannot complete the application online, please call us at 617-247-2389 to request that we mail you one and to ask us for any support or guidance you might need to complete the application.

We will be holding 2 virtual informational meetings on 5/24 and 5/31 at 5:30 pm. through the following link:https://zoom.us/j/99242640471pwd=aW85dnhCTEtWaEozYVdqcXpFdlBhUT09.

Meeting ID: 992 4264 0471 Passcode: q7LbF4 DEADLINE: Applications must be submitted online or postmarked no later than 6/15/22. Mailed to 434 Massachusetts Ave., Suite 300. Boston, MA 02118, Attention: Waitlist Coordinator.

● ● ●

Selection by Lottery.

Asset & Use Restrictions apply.

Preferences Apply.

For more information, language assistance, or reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities, please call 617-247-2389 or email:mjean@cruzcompanies.com

8

THURSDAY JUNE 2, 2022

SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM

Fitzgerald Post Memorial Day

by Rick Winterson

S

peaking formally, the full name of the Post on East Fourth Street is the Thomas J. Fitzgerald Post, No. 561, Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States (it’s often simply referred to as “the Fitzy Post”). Fitzgerald was a famous local combat hero; his biography is on the internet. Currently, the Post is commanded by Thomas J. McCarthy.

The Fitzgerald Post held a Memorial Weekend observance that begins at the Post itself, proceeds along Fourth Street, turns up and crosses East Broadway into Medal of Honor Park, and then holds a rededication ceremony at the Vietnam Memorial. The 40th such ceremony took place last Sunday, May 29.

This event begins with a coffeeand-pastries gathering in and around the Post. A piper and a Color Guard from the South Boston’s Excel High School JROTC detachment generally lead the march, after it forms up on Fourth. Anyone can join in the march and subsequent ceremony, of course – many of Boston’s elected and appointed officials took part this year, including Mayor Michelle Wu.

An interesting detail occurred this year. The JROTC Color Guard included an additional member, who carried another Armed Forces flag representing the new United States Space Force branch of our military.

The new flag has Roman numerals on it – MMXIX – which is 2019 in our figures, and is the year when the Space Force originated. Lt. Col. Hinson, the Commandant of the JROTC unit, claimed they were the first military unit to march with it.

So now, all military Color Guards have seven flags: the American flag, along with military branch flags for the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, Coast Guard, and the newly formed Space Force.

The rededication ceremony at the Vietnam Memorial was brief, wellspoken, and admirably humble and sincere. American flags had been set around the Memorial’s site. Wreaths and flowers were ceremoniously laid upon the base of the Memorial and on stands to one side. Salutes were rendered; respectful silence was in order.

Remarks followed: Examples included Congressman Lynch thanking the parents of JROTC members for letting their sons and daughters take part in

The new U.S. Space Force military flag flown by South Boston JROTC. that program, and then asking God’s blessings on South Boston’s Gold Star families. Marine veteran Tom Lyons offered a quote, “Poor is the nation that has no heroes”. Mayor Wu also thanked those who have served. The combat in Ukraine was a frequent topic. And overall, it was evident that South Boston “Does not forget”.

The rededication participants returned to the Fitzgerald Post for brunch – scrambled eggs,

bacon, sausage, and good ol’ fried potatoes. Compass on the Bay bussed in its veterans And it turned out that Sunday, May 29, was also the birthday of Veterans’ Commissioner Robert Santiago. He did not give his age, but “Happy Birthday” was sung to him anyhow.

Of course, there were many meaningful memorials all over Boston last Sunday. And not so incidentally, it was a beautiful day in May.

Our elected officials gather at the Vietnam Memorial on Sunday the 29th.

The South Boston Vietnam Memorial.

SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM

9

THURSDAY JUNE 2, 2022

Water Quality – South Boston

by Rick Winterson

P

erhaps early in June is a suitable time to report on South Boston’s beaches – immediately after the Memorial Day holiday weekend. We’ll base our comments on Save the Harbor/ Save the Bay’s report on water quality at all of Boston’s metropolitan beaches. This report covers the last six full years, from 2016 to 2021.

We have four beautiful beaches in South Boston: Carson Beach, M Street Beach, City Point, and Pleasure Bay. The average safety rating for these beaches since 2016 has been excellent – 98% at Carson, 98% at M, 99% at City Point, and a flawless 100% at Pleasure Bay –

May Lilacs on Castle Island

the safety in South Boston’s lagoon has been perfect. Just for your information, Nantasket Beach with an A+ 99% water safety rating joins South Boston in having very good water quality.

Getting to this level of safety has not been easy. Long-term reduction in pollution from Boston Harbor’s shoreline installations was obviously critical. And even now, storms can drop airborne contamination onto beaches, which is then brought in and out by the tides. Ongoing joint efforts are essential during 2022 – led by the Massachusetts DCR (Department of Conservation and Recreation), supported by Save the Harbor/Save the Bay (SH/SB), and with the cooperation of those of us who use South Boston’s beaches.

These days, it’s often said that “May Flowers” is a cliché. But many flowers do in fact bloom in May – perhaps even later in the month of May this year because of the chilly weather.

The lilacs planted along the pathways on Castle Island seem to be especially rich and vibrant this year. Maybe it’s the salt air. And this year, the Castle Island lilacs have been joined by the massively blooming horse chestnut trees on Castle Island, in a line along the Fort’s west wall. Perhaps it’s due to the combination of salt air and fragrances from Sully’s.

MOH Income Restricted Rental Opportunity - WAITING LIST REOPENING

Wayne at Blue Hill - Mattapan 1439, 1443, 1447, 1451 Blue Hill Ave

1

of Units

of bedrooms

26 22

Estimated Square Feet

Rent - 48 units

1-bedroom

575-724

30% HH Income

50% AMI

2-bedroom

697-877

30% HH Income

50% AMI

MINIMUM INCOMES (set by owner + based on of bedrooms/AMI) # of bedrooms

Maximum Income Limit

Minimum Income 50% AMI

MAXIMUM INCOMES (set by funders + based on HH Size/AMI) HH size

1

1

$0

2

2

$0

3

3

$0

4

4

$0

5

5

$0

6 7

50% AMI

$34,050 $38,900 $43,750 $48,600 $52,500 $56,400 $60,300

Applications are available during the application period for 30 days, from 5/16/22 to 6/15/22. To request an online application or to have one sent by email, visit https://bit.ly/WayneAtBlueHillApps or call 617-247-2389 The City of Boston has temporarily canceled the in-person application distribution period. If you cannot complete the application online, please call us at 617-247-2389 to request that we mail you one and to ask us for any support or guidance you might need to complete the application.

We will be holding 2 virtual informational meetings on 5/24 and 5/31 at 5:30 pm through the following link: https://zoom.us/j/99242640471?pwd=aW85dnhCTEtWaEozYVdqcXpFdlBhUT09.

Meeting ID: 992 4264 0471 Passcode: q7LbF4 DEADLINE: Applications must be submitted online or postmarked no later than 6/15/22.

Mailed to 434 Massachusetts Ave., Suite 300. Boston, MA 02118, Attention: Waitlist Coordinator. ● ● ●

Selection by Lottery.

Asset & Use Restrictions apply.

Preferences Apply.

For more information, language assistance, or reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities, please call 617-247-2389 or email:mjean@cruzcompanies.com

10

THURSDAY JUNE 2, 2022

SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM

Students Enjoy Visiting the Library Again “The only thing that you absolutely have to know, is the location of the library.” —Albert Einstein

T

he students in Grades 1B and 1C at South Boston Catholic Academy loved their visit to the South Boston Branch Library and to be able to take out books! They couldn’t wait to show us the great books they got.

The students in Grade 2B were all smiles for their first field trip to the South Boston Branch Library! We are so lucky to be able to talk with the librarians and learn all about the different types of books, genres, and how to care for them! Best day ever!

The students in Grade 4 also had a chance to visit the South Boston Branch Library.

The students in this class are avid readers and they and their families are very happy that the library is open again!

Quoting the Children’s Librarian, Dani Crickman, “It’s been a delight to welcome SBCA classes back to the South Boston Branch Library! During their April and May visits, Grades 1B, 1C, 2B and 4 were able to pick up library cards, get familiar with the children’s area, and choose books to check out. It was wonderful to

have the library full of kids who are enthusiastic about reading.

Outside of class visits, I encourage families to visit anytime during current library hours: Monday – Wednesday 10am - 6pm, Thursday 12pm – 8pm, Friday 9am – 5pm, and Saturday 9am – 2pm. The library is offering in-person children’s programs, including Storytime for ages 2-5 on Tuesday and Friday mornings at 10:30 and a new Lego club for ages 5-11 that meets the last Thursday of the month at 6pm.

The library will also host six sessions of music and movement with Little

Groove on Wednesdays at 10:30. You can register for all library programs at bpl.org/events. Please feel free to contact me at dcrickman@bpl.org or 617-268-0180. I look forward to seeing you! – Librarian Dani Crickman, South Boston Branch of the Boston Public Library.” A Big Thank You to Children’s Librarian, Dani Crickman, Branch Librarian, Jane Bickford and Programs and Community Outreach Librarian, Kathleen Clifford and to everyone at the South Boston Branch Library for welcoming us back to the library.

South Boston Catholic Academy.

SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM

11

THURSDAY JUNE 2, 2022

MOH Income Restricted Rental Opportunity - WAITING LIST REOPENING

Wayne at Bicknell- Dorchester 92-94 Esmond St-6 units / 77-79 Homestead St-12 units 50-52 Lorne St & 4 Wilson St - 9 units 97,99,101 &103 Norfolk St- 12 units 2 Greenbrier St- 6 units / 57 Bicknell St-15 units 129,131,133 & 135 Intervale St- 12 units

1

# of Units

# of bedrooms

Estimated Square Feet

Rent

Maximum Income Limit

15

1-bedroom

460-900

30% HH Income

33 21 4

2-bedroom 3-bedroom 4-bedroom

462-876

30% HH Income

798-1060

30% HH Income

1051-1171

30% HH Income

# built out for mobility impairments

# built out for Deaf/hard of hearing

50% AMI

2

—

50% AMI

—

—

50% AMI

—

—

50% AMI

—

—

Maximum Incomes (set by funders + based on the household size + Area Median Income (AMI)) MINIMUM INCOMES (set by owner + based on # of bedrooms/AMI) # of bedrooms

50% AMI

1

$0

2

$0

3

$0

4

$0

MAXIMUM INCOMES (set by funders + based on HH Size/AMI) Household size

1 2 3 4 5 6 7

50% AMI

$34,050 $38,900 $43,750 $48,600 $52,500 $56,400 $60,300

Applications are available during the application period for 30 days, from 5/16/22 to 6/15/22. To request an online application or to have one sent by email, visit https://bit.ly/WayneAtBicknellApp or call 617-247-2389.

The City of Boston has temporarily canceled the in-person application distribution period. If you cannot complete the application online, please call us at 617-247-2389 to request that we mail you one and to ask us for any support or guidance you might need to complete the application.

We will be holding 2 virtual informational meetings on 5/24 and 5/31 at 5:30 pm through the following link: https://zoom.us/j/99242640471?pwd=aW85dnhCTEtWaEozYVdqcXpFdlBhUT09.

Meeting ID: 992 4264 0471 Passcode: q7LbF4 DEADLINE: Applications must be submitted online or postmarked no later than 6/15/22.

Mailed to 434 Massachusetts Ave., Suite 300. Boston, MA 02118, Attention: Waitlist Coordinator. ● Selection by Lottery. ● Asset & Use Restrictions apply. ● Preferences Apply.

For more information, language assistance, or reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities, please call 617-247-2389 or email:mjean@cruzcompanies.com

SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM THE PRINT EDITION

THURSDAY JUNE 2, 2022

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