Labor was mentioned very early in the Bible. In Genesis, as Adam and Eve were being expelled from Paradise for eating the Forbidden Fruit, God told them, “You shall earn your bread by the sweat of your brow … “. This sounds like a punishment, but when read carefully, it really offers human beings a path to redemption. In the New Testament, the parable of the laborers in the vineyard is an episode in Matthew’s Gospel. It reminds us that like the vineyard laborers, we are all laborers ourselves, but also human beings of equal worth. And St. Paul’s Epistle to Timothy quotes that rhetorical but seriously ongoing question, “For is not the laborer worthy of his hire?”
In the late 1800s, that prolific essayist, Pope Leo XIII, wrote extensively about the “Dignity of Labor”. The effort a worker puts into “a good day’s work” is morally
good, he said. And that makes good common sense. Simply stated, a good day’s work earns the person who performed that labor the ability to support a family, help out a friend, and take care of him- or herself. Not bad. If that’s the result of honest labor, then it’s well-earned, in our opinion.
This may sound odd to you, but think about Communism, that most difficult 20th Century system of beliefs, for a few moments. Communism, in its writings, described itself as being dedicated to creating a republic of and for workers. Do you recall the May Day observances in what was once the Soviet Union – the USSR? These observances had nothing to do with the Dignity of Labor or with workers. They were military parades staged in Red Square for the benefit of viewers standing on the Kremlin’s balconies. No, Communism (the philosophy of the
Rick Winterson Honored
By Carol Masshardt
Spoke Gallery celebrated their supporter, longtime board member, champion of many non-profits and writer, actor, scientist and neighbor, Rick Winterson at No Man’s Land on August 22, 2024. The urban landscape, really a swatch of land once ruefully overgrown and neglected just behind the high school, and now transformed, was an enchanted and fitting place to
honor Rick with youth writing and art adorning the walls and trees.
“I’m extremely grateful for this recognition,” said Rick, ever an astute observer, in his brief comments, “but my modest contribution has been multiplied so many times over by Medicine Wheel/Spoke. Look at the young people tonight and their art. It is really something. The gratitude goes to Spoke for what they have done.”
Unlikely stories are not
Continued on Page 5
Rick honored by Spoke and local elected officials
Erin Murphy Humbly Seeking Your Support
Dear Fellow Suffolk County Residents,
Iam Erin Murphy, and I am humbly seeking your support in the upcoming Primary Election on Tuesday, September 3rd. Over the past three years, it has been both an
honor and a privilege to serve the vibrant and diverse communities of our great City as your At-Large City Councilor. I want to share with you why I am the best choice for Clerk of the Supreme Judicial Court for Suffolk County.
A Record of Results: During my time as a legislator on the Boston City Council,
I have been dedicated to delivering tangible results for our neighborhoods. I have consistently lifted the voices of my neighbors and championed important causes that directly impact our community. From advocating for better schools, more services for our seniors and veterans, safer streets, the cost of housing, and delivering on constituent services. I have demonstrated my commitment to improving the quality of life for all Bostonian’s.
Accessibility and Transparency: Your voice matters. I have always made it a priority to be accessible to residents, attending community meetings in every neighborhood and listening to your concerns. It is a priority of mine to make sure everyone feels welcome when they access the court. I will continue to champion transparency and speak my mind to stand up for you.
Local Knowledge and Network:
As a citywide elected official, I have a comprehensive understanding of Boston, Winthrop, Chelsea and Revere, and its residents, which will be beneficial in a role that requires close interaction with the public and various legal stakeholders. My existing relationships and network in the community will help facilitate smoother operations and improved communication.
I am proud to have a diverse group of community advocates, elected officials, first responders and labor unions supporting my run for Clerk of the Supreme Judicial Court for Suffolk County Please Vote on Tuesday, September 3rd
Proven Leadership and Integrity: My successful career in public service and education underscores my leadership abilities and commitment to ethical standards. These qualities are crucial for a role that demands impartiality, transparency, and reliability. The Clerk’s role is to ensure the smooth operation of the court system by managing documents, scheduling, and ensuring procedural compliance. This is a neutral, administrative function that does not require legal interpretation. Combining these factors, I offer a blend of practical experience, a deep understanding of public service, and a personal commitment to fairness and community.
Extensive Public Service
Experience: My tenure as a Boston City Councilor, my decades as a public-school educator, and my lifelong community advocacy demonstrates my expertise and capability to handle complex administrative tasks, manage substantial amounts of information, and interact with a diverse range of people. This experience, combined with my strong work ethic, shows that I am more than capable of managing complex responsibilities and advocating effectively for the community.
Education Expertise: My twentyfour years as a Boston Public School teacher and special education coordinator highlight my deep understanding of education and administrative processes. Managing over 150 IEPs each year reflects my organizational skills and experience managing extensive records and coordinating services. It also highlights my attention to detail, and dedication to ensuring fair and equitable treatment for all students. These skills are transferable and valuable in the administrative role of Clerk for the Supreme Judicial Court.
Single Parent perspective: My experience as a single mom adds a unique and empathetic perspective. It demonstrates my resilience, ability to balance multiple responsibilities, and commitment to making decisions that positively impact families and individuals.
Bostonian Through and Through: I love our city, and I am deeply committed to its future. As a lifelong Bostonian, Boston Public School teacher, former BPS student, BPS parent, and a single mom who raised her four children here, I understand our unique challenges and opportunities, and I will continue to be dedicated to making not just Boston, but all of Suffolk County a better place for all of us! On September 3rd, I ask for your vote for Clerk of the Supreme Judicial Court. I believe you; the people of Boston, Chelsea, Winthrop, and Revere deserve an elected official who is committed to providing access to justice and will bring transparency and accountability to the role. When you vote for me, you know exactly what you are getting. I will bring the same work ethic and integrity that marked my time in the classroom as a Boston Public School teacher, and as a legislator on the Boston City Council. Together, we can achieve remarkable things for Suffolk County. Thank you for your trust and support.
Sincerely, Erin Murphy, Boston City Councilor At-Large
Sen. Collins’ South Boston Office Hours Reflect Job Well Done
Sen. Nick Collins held office hours at the South Boston branch of the Boston Public Library last Friday but no one showed up while South Boston Online was there for the first hour. That’s not a bad thing, though.
“We get the most calls and the most direct engagement from South Boston, and we regularly deal with those issues,” Sen. Collins said. “We have presence at the civic meetings.
“We have a great team here, so all those needs are usually met up front.”
The office hours are for people who haven’t called, emailed, or talked to him at community meetings to ensure they have a chance to air their concerns and get their questions answered.
Two people visited the office
hours Friday in the last half-hour.
“It’s a good opportunity to let people ask questions about the issues, legislative issues, budget issues, concerns about what we’re working on, what they’d like us to work on,” he said.
It’s important to Sen. Collins to hold these office hours. “It’s about access to people’s elected leaders and getting some face time.”
His office hours are in libraries, at senior housing developments, and other places that are familiar and accessible. “People don’t come to the State House … it’s not a setting that people are typically in, maybe because of the formality of the building.”
So he comes to the people, holding office hours in South Boston, the
Celebrating the Carmelite Sisters for 70 Years of Dedication
Erin Murphy joins South Boston colleagues Congressman Lynch, Councilor Flynn, and Senator Collins at the Gate of Heaven Church for a beautiful Mass celebrating and expressing our gratitude to the Carmelite Sisters for the Aged and Infirm. For the past 70 years, they have devoted themselves to providing both spiritual and medical care to the Marion Manor community. Their unwavering commitment will be deeply missed in South Boston.
Sen. Nick Collins poses with (from left) Maria Gonzalez, library assistant; Dani Crickman, children’s librarian; and Jane Bickford, branch librarian, during his office hours at the South Boston branch of the Boston Public Library.
South End, Dorchester, Chinatown, and more.
Topics that have come up at other office hours include Mass & Cass, bus and bike lanes, the MBTA, taxes, the responsiveness of city and state government, and Carney Hospital.
In addition to constituent cases and concerns, the office hours are also an opportunity for the senator to talk about updates on what he has been working on and the progress being made on issues, and
educate people on the five ballot initiatives that are coming up. He noted that the housing bill passed and they are continuing to work on bills around substance abuse, economic development, liquor licenses, and nursing homes, among others. Sen. Collins is committed to making himself accessible to all constituents, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to engage with their elected leaders.
Continued from Page 1 Happy Labor Day
working man and woman) ended up ignoring the concerns of its workers, and is now essentially gone from the face of the earth. It simply did not work in the real world.
Before we get too far afield, let us give some thought to those who must work for the rest of us on Labor Day itself. Certainly, you are aware that public safety laborers – police officers, firefighters, and emergency personnel, even lifeguards on South Boston beaches – watch out for the rest of us on Labor Day. Medical
personnel – doctors, nurses, technicians, hospital staffs, and even those who clean and repair medical facilities – will be there for those of us who need them, just like on any other workday.
If you grab a quick lunch, go out to dinner, enjoy a cold drink, or attend ticketed entertainment on Labor Day, you are benefitting from someone else’s labor – the people behind the counter, the restaurant’s waitstaff, your bartender, or a favorite performer, including athletes who play (or practice) for Boston teams on Labor Day. Be sure to thank them if you get the chance. How about doubling up on your tip, while wishing those who serve you a “Happy Labor Day”? They’ll be surprised and delighted. And they’ll always remember your courtesy.
But that’s enough said. Relax and enjoy Labor Day next Monday yourself. Did you know that the first few Labor Days in the 1800s were celebrated on Tuesdays?
Happy Labor Day to all the working families that help build our City and Country
Boston City Councilor Ed Flynn and Family
Beyond Labor Day Remember to Vote
South Boston Online would be remiss if we didn’t wish you a Happy Labor Day this coming Monday, September 2. Labor Day is a uniquely American, 20th Century Holiday that celebrates a key reason why the United States of America is so successful – it’s due in large part to the high quality and quantity of the work we perform.
Enjoy your Holiday weekend, of course. But we want to ask you to look beyond that.
On Tuesday, September 3, just seven hours after Labor Day ends, the Massachusetts Primary Election Day takes place (after a week or so of early voting dates/times). We simply ask that you cast your vote, if you haven’t already done so. We don’t have to remind you of the importance of voting in every election. Even if some candidates are heavy favorites, it’s important to let each one of them know that all of us care enough to vote. In addition, a strong voter turnout will inform our unelected politicians that we also care about what they do – very much so!
On Tuesday, November 5, two months and two days (63 days in total) beyond September 3, the General
Elections take place. Between now and then, you are going to hear a stupendous number of statements about how you should vote. We don’t endorse candidates at South Boston Online (you, the voter, makes that choice). We only suggest you “look beyond” and ask yourself the question, “How well will the candidate I vote for perform over the next four years?”. Try to imagine how well they’ll do all the way until 2028 before you cast your vote. Please remember that 2024 is an excellent year to look ahead. The winning candidates in this November’s election will be sworn in early in 2025. Then, the next election for Mayor of the City of Boston takes place later in 2025, followed by elections in 2026 that include voting for Governor of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Speaking of looking ahead, the year 2026 will also be the 250th Anniversary of the United States of America and our Declaration of Independence. We should celebrate, so begin thinking now how we’ll resolve our political problems before 2026, and who should be elected to lead us in improving our City, State, and Nation.
Continued from Page 1 Honoring Rick Winterson
new to Spoke. They partner with and support adult artists, host galley exhibits, and employ and welcome youth from Boston Public Housing and varied communities, in a model unlike others. They curated No Man’s Land and maintained it with paths of memorial bricks, mosaics, and plantings. And Rick Winterson and his involvement is another chance meeting that has lasted decades.
“I came to South Boston 27 years ago because of recovery. This community understands recovery and you are welcome here.” he said. “When I first came to South Boston, I was walking and saw young people weeding at No Man’s Land and that’s when I met Michael Dowling. He described the project, and I thought it was remarkable and have been involved one way of another ever since,” he said.
Prior to this pivotal step in his life those decades ago, Rick, an MIT graduate, was a chemical engineer
and worked in the US and Europe, as well as serving as an officer in the Army. This profession may have been sacrificed for the priority on recovery, but it didn’t stop Rick from establishing a deep sense of connection to a place where he not only has support but contributes to sharing his many talents.
Michael Dowling, founder of Spoke, finds the best and cultivates it through art and relationship, and so he did with Rick Winterson.
“He is honored for his goodness and eccentricity, his willingness, his voice, his friendship, and willingness to listen deeply. He is a good neighbor, friend, and a good man,” said Dowling.
L’Merchie Frazier, Executive Director at Spoke, has also seen Rick up close as they forged together support for the on-going work of Spoke programs, and presenter of a mosaic created at Spoke at the event.
“The ordinary becomes extraordinary through passion and commitment, and I have seen him demonstrate both many times,” she said, joining tributes
by Ed Flynn, David Biehl, and a proclamation by Mayor Michelle Wu.
There are so many stories that could be the focus of Rick Winterson’s life, but today we have this one of a man who loves culture, science, history and has talents in all. But he focuses on the journey of recovery, the perils in the process and what is possible.
“I care deeply about my relationships and my work,”
he said, “but without sobriety nothing is possible. “I love this place,” he said of South Boston.
“It is here my spirit, mentality and physical health were restored.”
And it was here on a most beautiful evening, surrounded by community and impressive, watchful, sometimes self-conscious young artists with their visionary Spoke staff and teachers, that Rick Winterson was recognized and honored.
HAPPY LABOR DAY!
Every Labor Day, we recognize the achievements and contributions of the hardworking men and women who have built our country, our state, and our city.
Thank you and Happy Labor Day State Representative David Biele
by Rick Winterson
South Boston’s ICA (the Institute of Contemporary Art) is nearing its 20th year in the Seaport District. It is the newest art museum in the City of Boston and has been a very significant addition to South Boston’s artistic scene. During recent years, the ICA has outdone itself with one memorable exhibit after another. In particular, we are referring to “The Procession”, a hugely magnificent (and unusual) work of art by Hew Locke that is now on display through Labor Day, September 02. Hew Locke’s “The Procession” was originally commissioned by
ICA Brings London to Boston
the world-famous Tate Museum in London. After the Tate’s exhibition of “The Procession” closed, successful negotiations by the ICA brought it here. Specifically, “The Procession” is being shown in the Watershed, which is a branch of the ICA located on the East Boston Harbor docks. Water Shuttles bring ICA patrons from South Boston across the Harbor to the Watershed and back – these shuttle trips are free and are included in your ICA admission.
A procession can mean many things. It is almost always outdoors and long. It can be carried out for many reasons – sorrow, protest, worship, a call for change, or simply an enjoyable celebration. Many people take part, often
with picturesque costumes, banners, floats, and so on. Hew Locke’s remarkable creation of “The Procession” consists of 140 sculptured figures that include horses and people of all ages – every single one of them wearing a vivid costume. They portray soldiers, families, the rich, the poor, ghosts, and spirits. For his sculptures, Locke uses mostly simple materials, such as cloth and even cardboard, cut and bent into shape. “The Procession” stretches in four massive groups all along the 200-foot length of the Watershed floor. Patrons can also view videos in the Watershed and enjoy a harbor view in its break areas. Please think about doing something different over the upcoming Labor Day weekend. South Boston’s ICA is
open this Saturday and Sunday (AUG 31-SEP 01) from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. As we mentioned, the ICA will also be open on Labor Day, September 2, from 11 to 5 – admission to the ICA on Labor Day is free for everyone. All weekend long, free ten-minute Water Taxi trips will take you across the Harbor from the ICA in South Boston to the ICA’s Watershed in East Boston to see “The Procession”. And here are two hints for visiting the ICA on Labor Day weekend: first, bring your kids. They will love (yes, love!) Hew Locke’s “The Procession” and the Water Shuttle. And second, seats on the Water Shuttle fill up fast on holiday weekend days, so plan to get to the ICA in South Boston.
by Rick Winterson
Guess what! On Tuesday evening, the Red Sox ended their most recent losing streak. However, as you likely know by now, the sweep last weekend by the Arizona Diamondbacks along with losses to Toronto’s Blue Jays essentially eliminated any hope the Red Sox have for a playoff berth. These recent losses, coupled with the Sox’s astonishingly poor performance at home in Fenway, have led to some forbidding Win-Loss numbers.
Even if the top three Central Division teams (Kansas City, Cleveland, Minnesota Twins drop to .500 (15W-15L) over their last 30 games this season, the Red Sox would still need to play .625 baseball and win as many as 20 (or more) of their remaining games to catch up. That simply ain’t gonna happen! Especially when the Sox still have a dozen more games to play at home. And the Red Sox are the most
Sports by (a few of) the Numbers
error-prone team in baseball. They’ve committed more than half their errors in Fenway so far this season. We thought their Green Monster mascot was meant to frighten visitors.
The most urgent tasks for the Sox are getting another starter and a closer. This may sound less than obvious, but these days pitching is much more than half the game of baseball. Period! So far in August, the Red Sox pitching staff’s ERA has exceeded 5.00. Five runs allowed per game almost always means a loss, whereas two or three runs let in per game usually wins.
Boston has heard it before, so we’ll say it again just once: “Wait ‘til next year!”
It’s a bit late to second-guess the U.S. basketball gold medal lineups in the Olympics, but we think Olympic head coach Steve Kerr and the U.S. coaching staff did a good job, despite being criticized for the “lack of minutes” they gave the Celtics’ players. The Olympic minutes played focused on four definite Hall-of-Famers - LeBron James,
Kevin Durant, Joel Embiid, and Steph Curry. The U.S. team went unbeaten (even though the game with Serbia was painfully close) and garnered their fifth straight Olympic gold. The only question that we think remains is, “Why was Jaylen Brown bypassed altogether”?
All kinds of predictions are being made that the Celtics will repeat as NBA champions in 2025. Even though the Celts went 16W-3L in the playoffs, who can really say? Just key on the starting six (five, plus a “first off the bench” named Al Horford). All six are returning in 2024-2025; the Celts have four or five strong back-ups plus a couple of “role players”. That essentially means the Celts can bring two full teams (yes, two!) to every regular season match-up. The Green Team is back! And Happy Birthday to Al Horford, who turned 38 in June.
The Celts were 64-18 this past regular season. The NBA regular season win-loss record is 73-9 by the Golden State Warriors in 2015-2016. But
after the regular season was over, the Warriors lost that NBA Championship playoff in seven games to the Cleveland Cavaliers, even though the Cavs, led by LeBron James, turned in a regular season of only 57 Wins-25 Losses. Right now, the Celts are favored to take the 2024-2025 regular season (by odds of +300 or so), but we admit that all those numbers don’t always mean much! We’ll just have to wait and see. Closing out August’s “wait and see” category are the New England Patriots, who trimmed their roster back to 53 two days ago. They have three quarterbacks who look reasonably competent. Their defense is OK for now. Which leaves only the offensive line to man. An NFL O-line is the only part of the roster that still plays true professional football – the rest of the roster has “evolved”. Anyhow, the Pats kept nine prospective O-line candidates in their 53-man roster. Waiver pick-ups are still a possibility. Once again, we’ll just have to wait and see.
Councilor Flynn Files Hearing Order on BHA Elevator Systems
At this week’s City Council Meeting, Councilor Ed Flynn filed a hearing order to discuss the current status of the elevator systems across Boston Housing Authority (BHA) developments.
The elevator systems in many BHA developments are aging and frequent reports of breakdowns have negatively impacted the quality of life and raised public safety concerns for many residents, including seniors and persons with disabilities. The hearing will seek to address the ongoing safety and reliability of the elevator system across BHA developments and discuss a financial and maintenance plan.
Over the last few years, tenants in BHA developments such as the Ruth Barkley Apartments in the South End, Torre Unidad at West Dedham Street, and St. Botolph BHA in District 2 have complained of recurring elevator breakdowns
and prolonged periods of maintenance and repair. Tenants have complained of getting stuck in elevators, elevators skipping floors, and elevator repair parts taking a long time to arrive. Seniors and persons with disabilities have been particularly impacted and have expressed frustration at not being able to leave their apartments for prolonged periods of time, resulting in missed medical appointments and not being able to pick up groceries.
“It is critical for the BHA to have a financial and maintenance plan to address our aging elevator systems across BHA developments,” said Councilor Flynn. “This
is a public safety and quality of life issue - when elevators are constantly in disrepair, it is virtually impossible for tenants, especially those who live on higher floors, and for our seniors and persons with disabilities to get out of their building. It is imperative that the BHA conducts a comprehensive review and inspection on the status of every elevator in BHA developments, including the repair history of each elevator, the frequency it has been shut down, and how often first responders have had to visit.” For more information, please contact Councilor Flynn’s office at 617-635-3203 and Ed.Flynn@Boston.gov
As we wrap up another wonderful summer for the children at the South Boston Catholic Academy’s Summer Camp Program, we want to say a special Thank you to all those who made it possible, our wonderful
End of Summer Camp Fun
families and their children, our amazing lead camp counselors, Mrs. Erin Finn, Mrs. Ellen O’Callahan and Couch Erin Brogan who organized and ran the camps for the children in the Early Childhood Program and the K2 and Up Students Programs.
Thank you to all our talented summer camp counselors, to all those who came and provided all the different and fun-filled activities and programs that the children loved taking part in and to all those who helped in any way to make this year’s SBCA’s
Summer Camp Program possible. We are looking forward to a wonderful 2024-2025 new school year as we welcome families old and new to another great school year here at SBCA. Looking forward to seeing everyone at SBCA in September!
NOTICE
of administration. Interested parties are entitled to petition the Court to institute formal proceedings and to obtain orders terminating or restricting the powers of Personal Representatives appointed under informal procedure. A copy of the Petition and Will, if any, can be obtained from the Petitioner.
CITATION ON PETITION FOR FORMAL ADJUDICATION
Estate of: Cecilia Ellen O'Leary
Also known as: Cecilia O'Leary, Cecilia E O'Leary
Date of Death: 05/29/2024
To all interested persons:
requesting that the Court enter a formal Decree and Order and for such other relief as requested in the Petition
The Petitioner requests that: Craig J O'Leary of Canton MA
be appointed as Personal Representative(s) of said estate to serve Without Surety on the bond in unsupervised administration
IMPORTANT NOTICE
You have the right to obtain a copy of the Petition from the Petitioner or at the Court. You have a right to object to this proceeding. To do so, you or your attorney must file a written appearance and objection at this Court before: 10:00 a.m. on the return day of 09/03/2024
This is NOT a hearing date, but a deadline by which you must file a written appearance and objection if you object to this proceeding. If you fail to file a timely written appearance and objection followed by an affidavit of objections within thirty {30) days of the return day, action may be taken without further notice to you.
UNSUPERVISED ADMINISTRATION UNDER THE MASSACHUSETTS UNIFORM PROBATE CODE (MUPC)
A Personal Representative appointed under the MUPC in an unsupervised administration is not required to file an inventory or annual accounts with the Court. Persons interested in the estate are entitled to notice regarding the administration directly from the Personal Representative and may petition the Court in any matter relating to the estate, including the distribution of assets and expenses of administration.
WITNESS, Hon. Brian J. Dunn, First Justice of this Court.
Date: July 23, 2024
PUBLISH ONLY THE CITATION ABOVE
Paul J Gannon, Esq. Law Office of Paul J Gannon P C PO Box E46 546 East Broadway Boston, MA 02127 MPC 560 (2/22/24)
PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE
Estate of: Frank B DeGiacomo
Also known as: Frank D. De Giacomo
Date of Death: 01/28/2021
To all interested persons: A Petition for Sale of Real Estate has been filed by: John M Smoot of Accord MA
requesting that the court authorize
Suffolk Probate and Family Court 24 New Chardon Street Boston, MA 02 114 (617)788-8300
IMPORTANT NOTICE
You have the right to obtain a copy of the Petition from the Petitioner or at the court. You have a right to object to this proceeding. To do so, you or your attorney must file a written
This
WITNESS, Hon. Brian J. Dunn, First Justice of thisCourt.
