1 8 15

A FREE THURSDAY PUBLICATION

THURSDAY JANUARY 8, 2015

“Hatred paralyzes life; love releases it.

Hatred confuses life; love harmonizes it.

Hatred darkens life; love illuminates it.”

(Martin Luther King Jr.)

SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM

Winter Safety Mayor Walsh Sends Reminder to Boston Residents on Winter Safety With forecasters predicting bitterly cold weather this week, Mayor Martin J. Walsh reminds residents to take precautions in managing this week’s cold blast. With cold weather and wind chills in the teens forecast through Thursday, residents are encouraged to remain vigilant to help the City’s vulnerable populations at this time, particularly our homeless and elderly residents. For Boston, a low of 0 degrees will be the coldest reading in 4 years. It has only reached 0 or colder twice in the past 10 years in Boston (2011 & 2005 when it was negative 2 degrees). In such cold conditions, Mayor Walsh reminds all Bostonians to take precautions to stay warm, as hypothermia or frost-bite set in quickly in freezing temperatures.

“We are very concerned about this cold weather and are working to monitor the situation and keep all our residents safe,” said Mayor Walsh. “While

we’re doing what we can to spread this information city-wide, I’m personally asking each and every single Boston resident to look after their neighbor, be it someone you see outdoors or someone living next door.”

Emergency Shelter Operations The Boston Public Health Commission (BPHC) coordinates a city-wide network of emergency shelters, outreach providers, city agencies and first responders to assist the homeless. Individuals can receive resources and a warm bed all year round at the city-run Woods Mullen shelter and the temporary shelter at South End Fitness Center. With the needs being even greater this time of year, BPHC’s network of homeless service providers work to ensure that no client is ever without shelter.

Shelters are kept open during the day for the safety of clients. During cold weather, guests who have been previously barred for non-violent offenses Continued on Page 2

Melt Your Holiday Bills Away!

Winter 2015 Is Here – Please Take Care

Winter finally came, after we had a memorable Holiday Season – but no White Christmas.

Mother Nature was not far behind. The bitter cold and at least a dusting of snow began the first full week in January, 2015. The view across M Street/Medal of Honor Park was a study in black and white, with its own austere beauty.

However, while a headlong slide down a toboggan slope is exhilarating, the same thing on a concrete sidewalk or in a car can be frightening – and injurious.

Please take care of yourself – eat well, stay warm, bundle up, walk and drive carefully, get your flu shot – you know the drill. (See “Winter Safety” at the left.)

And once again, a very Happy New Year to you from South Boston Online.

(Photo by Rick Winterson)

Our Credit Card Re-Write Loan lets you restructure your debt and consolidate bills to help you pay them off FASTER! Apply for yours now online at massbaycu.org or in person at any branch.

Refinance

7.99%

as low as

FIXED RATE

APR* massbaycu.org (617) 269-2700 147 West 4th Street, South Boston

*APR = Annual Percentage Rate. Monthly principal and interest payment per $1,000 borrowed for 48 months at 7.99% APR is $24.41.

Current Annual Percentage Rates subject to change without notice. Loan amount up to $25,000. Rate is based on credit score. Terms and conditions apply.

Federally insured by NCUA

EQUAL HOUSING

OPPORTUNITY

2

January 8, 2015

WWW.SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM

Back to the Future?

One activity we all take part in, as we head into each New Year, is looking ahead. How often do you hear the question, “What will the New Year bring?” Health, new friends, prosperity, a better job, peace on Earth – who knows?

What’s equally important is taking a few minutes to look back – way back. Those who make a fulltime profession of looking back we call “historians”. What they have found out and recorded in their writings is extremely valuable. In fact, past history is the most reliable guide we have for predicting our future.

Let’s go back an even two hundred years, to 1814-1815. The War of 1812 between us and England was winding down. It was largely a futile, useless war, but there was at least one good reason for it: England kept kidnapping our merchant sailors of British descent, even though these sailors were bona fide American citizens. England did this to man British warships in their war against Napoleon – an obviously illegal practice called “impressment”.

There were bad reasons for the

War of 1812, too. Believe it or not, a fair number of American citizens thought we should capture Canada (often called “British America” back then) during that War, and force Canada to become part of the United States. Mistakes – big ones – were made in the War of 1812.

U.S. morale was high in 1814.

Francis Scott Key wrote a popular poem he called “The Star Spangled Banner” in August of 1814. It became our National Anthem. The undefeated USS Constitution had earned its name of “Old Ironsides” on the high seas. The Battle of New Orleans gave Andrew Jackson his nickname of “Old Hickory” and set him on his path to becoming our seventh President.

The only problem was that the Battle of New Orleans took place in the final days of 1814 and overlapped into 1815. That was more than two weeks after the U.S. had signed a peace treaty with England on December 24, 1814. Communications “across the pond” in those days were very slow; the Battle of New Orleans, a fond historical memory, was actually a mistake.

Jump ahead a hundred years to

1914, when World War I began.

That war started when Archduke Francis Ferdinand was assassinated

by Gavrilo Princip, a Serbian college student. This despoiled the royal succession in what was left of the Austro-Hungarian Empire.

Ask yourself if Serbia, a royal succession, and the Austro-Hungarian Empire were good reasons for a world war. Oh, please!

World War I became known as “the war to end all wars”, mostly due to its immense death toll: Close to twenty million (20,000,000), ten million of whom were military deaths in combat. We didn’t get into World War I till the spring of 1917, but that war started the U.S.’s eventual role as the world’s policeman. Since World War II, we have assumed that role full-time.

Do each of these hundred -year benchmarks have anything to teach us? At South Boston Online, we aren’t sure, but one thing is certain: America is still the world’s policeman. During the Year of Our Lord 2015, it’s time to take stock of that role in the world. We are having difficulties policing the world right now, as you know: Russia

in Crimea, the China Sea claims, North Korea’s alleged hacking, Iran and its nuclear aspirations, Israel versus Palestine, and the whole Middle Eastern powder keg.

South Boston Online is fairly optimistic about 2015, so we are willing to give you one modest prediction about America’s domestic situation this year: 2015 will be very much the same as 2014.

This year will be somewhat better than 2014 was, just as 2014 was somewhat better than 2013. The economy will continue to improve (but slowly); governance will improve at all levels (also slowly).

Why isn’t South Boston Online more emphatically optimistic?

Remember three things: Much of the rest of the world still has serious problems, the U.S. still has a soft job market (especially among our younger and our older workers), and our national deficit is still climbing. It has reached $18 trillion dollars - $18,000,000,000,000 and counting.

But still, 2015 will be reasonably good to most of us. So once again, all the best during the New Year from South Boston Online.

Continued From Page 1

State Sanitary Code, the “heating season” officially begins September 15th and runs through June 15th.

Property owners must provide heating facilities, which heat habitable spaces at a minimum temperature of 68˚ during the day, 7a.m. to 11:00 p.m. and 64˚ in the evening 11:01 p.m. to 6:59 a.m.

In case of emergency, property owners are encouraged to keep a list of licensed contractors (electrician, plumber and general contractor) on file. Tenants, experiencing problems with their heating system should do the following: check the thermostat, ensuring the dial is turned on never run out of oil and report insufficient

or no heat problems to the property owner or manager immediately.

The following are quick tips property owners can take to make their homes energy efficient: Disconnect water hose from the home; Wrap or cover exposed spigot Caulk or putty windows; Ensure kitchen and bathroom dampers close properly; Close all storm windows and doors; Apply weather stripping;Properly insulate all pipes that are exposed; Cover vents.

If your landlord or property manager is unresponsive contact the Inspectional Services Department (ISD) at (617) 635-5300 to file a complaint.

Complaints made outside normal

business hours should be called into the Mayor’s 24-Hour Hotline at 617635-4500.

Residents are encouraged to check on the well-being of elderly or disabled neighbors, be mindful of homeless individuals that may need assistance, and practice caution when using portable heating devices such as space heaters.

Emergency Operations Should you encounter a homeless individual in need of assistance, please notify public safety officials by calling 9-1-1 or the Mayor’s 24-hour Hotline at (617) 635-4500. For additional information on how to stay safe this winter, visit cityofboston.gov/cold.

Winter Safety are granted amnesty. Working with the Pine Street Outreach Team and Boston Healthcare for the Homeless, BPHC actively seeks out individuals and helps them find shelter during a cold snap, providing food, clothing, blankets, medical assistance to those in need. If you see a person in need of shelter or who is not properly dress for the cold, please call (617) 633- 0170.

If the situation is an emergency, call 911.

Heat Guidelines for Property Owners In accordance with the Massachusetts

SOUTH BOSTON ONLINE 700 EAST BROADWAY SOUTH BOSTON 617-269-5550 Jeanne Rooney Owner

Mail@SouthBostonOnline.com

Shannon Rideout

Rick Winterson

Kevin Devlin

Christine Mazzeo

Francesca Russo

mail@SouthBostonOnline.com

rick@SouthBostonOnline.com

mail@SouthBostonOnline.com

mail@SouthBostonOnline.com

mail@SouthBostonOnline.com

Advertising Sales

Senior Editor

Sports Writer

Photographer

Office Manager

SouthBostonOnline Print Edition is an independent newspaper published weekly by SouthBostonOnline, Inc. We welcome submissions and reserve the right to edit any and all for publication. All photos, stories, artwork, and advertisements are the property of SouthBostonOnline, Inc., and may not be reproduced. Although we have a thorough proofreading process, we assume no liability for reporting or typographical errors that may appear. Editorials are collarborative opinions of the publisher and editor.

WWW.SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM

January 8, 2015

3

Erratum (We Apologize) In a well-intentioned but mistaken effort to meet our New Year’s Day deadline, South Boston Online inadvertently sent the first draft of our January 1, 2015, issue to the printer, instead of the final, proofread draft. This resulted in several typographical errors, for which we apologize. South Boston Online has taken steps to insure this does not happen again.

Thanks for your understanding.

New at SALSA’S for the New Year

THERE’S LOTS NEW AT SALSA’S FOR THE NEW YEAR So stop in at 118 Dorchester Street (617-269-7878)

- Salsa’s is now the home of the $5 margarita (yes, that’s five dollars)

Take advantage of dealer new year car sales—plus, save even more with City of Boston Credit Union’s Auto Financing options on New, Used and Refinanced Vehicles, including terms up to 84 months!

Keep in mind that you can take the manufacturer rebates from the dealer and still get a great rate by doing your financing at City of Boston Credit Union.

Apply online at cityofbostoncu.com

Now serving the community!

- We now serve drinks until 1 a.m., including our world-beating sangria - Our new chef has added more casual items to our regular menu Tequila wings The Mexican burger Tequila steak w/ fries A lime-juice ceviche Chili dusted fries & Sausage Guy sausage a la Mexique HAPPY NEW YEAR from Dave Littlefield, the Sausage Guy Rosemary, Sawyer, Jett, and Grace Chef Joe Dunn And all the loyal, hardworking staff at Salsa’s

* A.P.R. = Annual Percentage Rate. Rate for new automobile/motorcycle loans only. Based on 1.99% Annual Percentage Rate monthly payment equals $21.69 per thousand borrowed for maximum 4 year term, maximumm loan amount $50,000.00. This rate based on 20% downpayment and current credit score of 760 or above.

Other rates available based on downpayment, term and credit score. Other guidelines may apply. Must be a member of City of Boston Credit Union to apply. All loans are subject to credit approval. A.P.R.s are subject to change without notice.

4

January 8, 2015

WWW.SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM

Late News: Christmas, 2014

by Rick Winterson

South Boston Online apologizes for these news items being late. Christmas Day fell on Thursday this year, which is our normal delivery day.

These items happened on or shortly before Christmas Eve (Wednesday, December 24) last week. There was no way we could ask our people to work on Christmas itself, so we had to get this issue printed and delivered on Wednesday morning – a full day earlier than usual.

The Andrew Square Civic Association (ASCA) didn’t let us down.

South Boston Online thought that the Christmas tree on the Adams parking lot by Old Colony and Dorchester Street looked lonely, but ASCA came to the rescue. They set up a tent and brought in Santa, the Figgy Pudding Singers, and refreshments.

The round of Christmas Masses began with a sunset Mass at 4 p.m. in the charming and historic St. Augustine Chapel. Later that evening, a Vigil Mass was said in the Gate of

Heaven Church. With its soaring Gothic arches and its high Medieval altar, it is the most beautiful church in South Boston.

The Mass was celebrated by Fr. Robert Casey, the Pastor of St.Brigid/ Gate of Heaven Churches. After proclaiming Luke’s Gospel of the first Christmas Eve in Bethlehem, he gave a homily that asked the congregation to imagine their confusion and sadness if somehow Christmas no longer existed. It’s a sacred observance that must be preserved.

A new book was introduced at the St. Augustine Food Pantry’s traditional Christmas Banquet, which was served in St. Monica Hall. The book is entitled “Memories of Our Southie”, it consists of photos by Charlie Harrington, and it contains a photographic history of South Boston. It is dedicated to Father Tom McDonnell. Sheila Shea is selling “Memories of Our Southie”. Proceeds from the book go to support the Simon of Cyrene Society. Get yourself a copy – it’s memorable.

The gathering place – Woody’s L Street Tavern – for the 9:30 a.m. Polar Plunge for Scleroderma. That’s New Year’s morn, January 1, 8 a.m.

The Andrew Square Civic Association has Santa and the Figgy Pudding Singers enliven the intersection of Dorchester Street and Old Colony – they surely did.

At sunset on Christmas Eve, the first Christmas Mass begins in the historic and holy St. Augustine Chapel in the burial ground.

The high Medieval altar under the soaring Gothic arches of Gate of Heaven Church is brightly decorated for Christmas.

Fr. Robert Casey, the Pastor of St. Brigid/Gate of Heaven Churches, reads Luke’s Christmas Eve Gospel – “ … and an Angel of the Lord appeared to shepherds tending their flocks in the fields,”

A finely carved crèche symbolically welcomes the birth of the Christ Child.

WWW.SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM

January 8, 2015

5

Crowd of 1000+ at the 2015 Polar Plunge

by Online’s Roving Reporter

The 2015 Polar Plunge, which grew out of the daily dips taken by the L Street Brownies since the 1800s, and which has its home at the Curley Community Center, was an enormous success this Year of Our Lord 2015. It seemed to your Roving Reporter that the very large crowd this year – more than 1,000, we estimated – was filled out by many of South Boston’s newer residents. We hope so. They are certainly welcome to take part in a Southie tradition, now and in future years.

It was colder than usual – 22 degrees F by a large thermometer one of the Plungers wore around his neck. The wind chill made the apparent temperature feel close to zero, even though the day was very clear and sunny. Perhaps the tip-off was a band of frosty snow that extended four feet back from the water’s edge.

The costumes (as usual, and what there was of them) were really a sight to behold.

They ranged from Viking array – very popular this year – to faux fur bikinis (Br-r-r!) to a group costumed as William Wallace’s warriors from “Braveheart”.

They used blue woad face and body

paint and waved a number of cardboard weapons to make their point Comic strip characters, including Batman and Captain America, were also popular.

Kevin Conroy’s 103rd Postal Fire column Pipes and Drums gathered at the L Street Tavern, and they and their Plungers marched to the Curley Center.

This was to support Kevin’s efforts to help fund Scleroderma Research.

Many of the Plungers, who went directly to the Curley Center, supported the Center’s fundraising efforts on behalf of various scholarships and South Boston youth hockey.. Freddy Ahern,

the Curley Center’s Director, sounded the line-up call just before 9:30. Tommy McAuliffe sounded “Charge” on his tuba. And they were off.

The 2015 Polar Plunge was over in minutes. It went very well this year, although very few Plungers stayed in any longer than needed to get a quick headto-toe dunking. The Polar Plunge is tied for longevity with venerable Southie institutions like the Monument on the Heights and the Parade. Long may it wave.

Oh yes, A Very Happy New Year from South Boston Online

The 103rd Postal Fire Column Pipes and Drums step off for Scleroderma Research in 2015.

The L Street Brownies’ Swimming Club will go on at the Curley Center forever.

William Wallace’s warriors are set for the 2015 Plunge. Yes, their blue makeup is real woad.

Tommy McAuliffe sounds “Charge” on his tuba, as a temperature checking Plunger shows 22.

A thousand 2015 Plungers break for the ocean, after Freddy Ahern’s starters sound the gun.

Yes, believe it or not, they all went in – all 1,000+ of the 2015 Polar Plungers.

6

January 8, 2015

WWW.SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM

Vincent Crotty Featured Artist at SBBA Meeting

Their Own New Year’s Day Tradition These locals opted to plunge into “M” Street Beach away from the madding crowd.

BY KEVIN DEVLIN

The Irish-born artist, now living in Dorchester, Vincent Crotty, will be the featured artist at Saturday’s South Boston Arts Association meeting at 9:30 a.m. at the Curley Bathhouse, L Street and Day Boulevard. The public is welcome. Admission is free.

Crotty, who grew up in Ireland and learned his craft as a sign-painter, later immigrated to Boston in 1990, with the determination to earn his living as an artist. Often working in plein air, he is noted for his original landscapes, interiors and figurative painting which transforms the ordinary into memorable images.

Painting on both the New England and Irish Atlantic coasts, Crotty, influenced by the Ashcan School of realism, depicts urban grittiness in Boston and New England. His work has earned him awards from Mass.

Cultural Council, the John Stobart Foundation among others, and his paintings have been commissioned by the Irish Cultural Center of N.E. as well as other cultural organizations.

His paintings have also been featured in set designs in various theater productions as well as movies, including Mystic River.

It was New Year’s Day and time for the annual “L” Street Brownies annual plunge into the ocean water. It was sunny without a cloud in the blue sky. It was cold and so was the water. Yet it didn’t deter over five hundred people who braved the weather and water to participate in this now well-known event.

Local residents Jay Arthur and Steve Rusteika participated in the Brownies annual plunge beginning in 1993. But they grew weary as more and more people became aware of it and partook

of this event. Two years ago, not willing to fight the crowd anymore, they decided it was time for a change. So, Jay and Steve started their own tradition away from the madding crowd. Instead of hitting the waves at “K” Street with the Brownies and the crowd, they now take their annual dip at “M” Street Beach. It’s a lot easier and there’s less commotion as far as they’re concerned.

They can sleep a little later on New Year’s Day morning and then sneak down “M” Street to the beach. They can take their dip along with a few friends, and return to the warmth of their homes.

They’re glad they’ve done this.

They thought it was a good idea and so do I.

(from left to right: Bill Kelly, Tim Madden, Amy Madden, Jay Arthur, Steve Rusteika, and Danny Ruggiero before they took their dip at M Street Beach on New Year’s Day

Brave Amy Madden leads the way back to shore and a warm blanket.

WWW.SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM

January 8, 2015

7

South Boston Catholic Academy Sixth Grade News Need to price a home improvement project? Ask a grade six student at South

Boston Catholic Academy. Grade Six students put their geometry skills to work by

creating structures to meet specific requirements. The students calculated surface

area, priced a new roof, priced an exterior paint job, and new window frames.

Banner Year Expected for Convention Business in Boston At the MCCA, we are celebrating another successful year and rolling into 2015 with a full slate of major meetings and conventions booked for Boston. The BCEC and the Hynes continue to produce incredible results for Massachusetts, and in 2015 we will welcome some of the world’s most important events to Boston – many of them repeat customers. Their desire to come to our convention centers and our city is a testament to our world class facilities, our top notch sales and customer service teams, and Boston’s standing as a premier convention destination.

In 2015, meetings and conventions will bring more than 900,000 attendees to Boston - attendees who will generate 615,000 hotel room nights and $610 million in economic impact for the Commonwealth. This will be our third best year for room nights overall, but the BCEC is expected to break a 2010 record of 403,000 hotel room nights by generating more than 431,000 in 2015.

Early in 2015, the MCCA will welcome back a number of our successful annual events. From January 29-31, we will host the 40th Anniversary event for Yankee Dental Congress and welcome their 26,700 attendees to Boston. 2015 will mark the 30th year that Yankee Dental has been held at an MCCA facility – they first held their event at the Hynes in 1985, and moved to the BCEC in 2008. We will also host New England Grows from February 4-6 at the BCEC, with 16,000 attendees.

Also in 2015, BCEC will again host popular public events including the New England International Auto Show (January 15-19), the Boston RV & Camping Expo (January 17-19), and the New England Boat Show (February 14-22).

Boston continues to be a leading destination for international events, and in 2015, we will host nine events with more than 25 percent international attendance including the Heart Rhythm Society with 15,000 attendees, the Seafood Expo North America with 18,000 attendees, NAFSA: Association of International Educators Annual Conference & International Education Expo

with 7,000 attendees and the American Diabetes Association Annual Meeting with nearly 15,000 attendees. This will be the first BCEC meeting for the American Diabetes Association – they last held their meeting at the Hynes in 1995. The ADA Annual Meeting is a five-day, science-heavy conference that brings participants from more than 124 countries together to discuss the most timely and significant advances in basic science and the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of diabetes.

Other events of note in 2015 include the New England Region Volleyball Association’s Pre-Qualifier at the February event, which will transform the BCEC’s exhibit halls into nearly 20 regulation-sized volleyball courts, and the return of PAX Expo East in March, the largest video gaming conference in New England.

2014 was a fantastic year for the MCCA, with 241 events held at the BCEC and Hynes bringing 845,000 attendees to Boston, and generating an estimated 630,000 hotel room nights and $590 million in economic impact. On top of these numbers, in June, we posted our best sales month in MCCA history, booking

38 future events for Boston that will generate 472,787 future hotel room nights in Boston. And in August, the MCCA debuted its new experimental outdoor space at the BCEC, the Lawn on D, to great review.

Over a period of just three months, we hosted more than 30,000 community members at concerts, kids events, football Sundays and other publicly programmed events on the Lawn on D. After a fantastic 2014, the MCCA has another busy year with much hard work ahead of us. In 2015, we will be focused on executing exceptional events for our customers, and working simultaneously on our expansion and hotel development efforts in the South Boston Waterfront. It’s an exciting time for the MCCA, and we look forward to sharing more successes throughout the next year and for many years to come.

Sincerely, James E. Rooney Executive Director, Massachusetts Convention Center Authority Massconvention.com

8

January 8, 2015

WWW.SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM

The Christmas Banquet, 2014

by Rick Winterson

It has been a South Boston custom since 1983 – 31 years ago (time flies, doesn’t it?). That custom is the St. Augustine Food Pantry, started in ‘83 by Msgr.

Thomas McDonnell (Father Tom) and ably assisted by Frank Kelley and Sr. Peggy Youngclaus SND, who still works for the Simon of Cyrene Society.

The memory of Fr. Tom and his loyal cohorts is so strong that this year there’s a book of memorable South Boston photographs for sale called “Memories

of Our Southie”. It features a cover photograph of Father Tom and Sister Peggy; it is dedicated to the memory of Father Tom and all his good works. Sheila Shea, a Cheverus Award recipient, was selling these at the Christmas Banquet.

“Memories of Our Southie” consists of photographs by Charles A. Harrington, who was a long-time employee of the Globe and the founder of The Southie News, where Sheila Shea also worked.

Proceeds from this book go entirely to support the Simon of Cyrene Society – think about purchasing as copy of

“Memories of Our Southie” for yourself and your family.

People have passed on and the locale has changed, but the Food Pantry’s Christmas Banquet continues on. This year, Christmas Day in the Year of Our Lord 2014, the tradition continued again in St. Monica Hall. A veritable army of cooks, servers, and delivery men and women served 200 or more in-person guests and shut-ins a full (and we do mean full) Christmas Banquet. Leftovers for that night’s supper or lunch the next day were freely shared as well.

Yet another Christmas gift to those who attended the Banquet, a consignment of excellent winter clothes, showed up at St. Monica Hall. The clothing was handed out by volunteers, too.

And do you know something? The volunteers, many of whom have worked on these Christmas Banquets for years and years, seem to enjoy the festivities more than anyone. This is best described by Paul’s simple phrase in his second letter to the Corinthians – “ … for God loves a cheerful giver.”

Amen.

Without the loyal, hard-working kitchen crew, how could there possibly be a Christmas Banquet in St. Monica Hall? And yes, they start ‘em young!

A quartet of regulars are ready to serve the Christmas Banquet on St. Monica Hall.

Photographer Charlie Harrington, Sheila Shea, and Sr. Peggy Youngclaus show the recently published book, “Memories of Our Southie” – proceeds benefit the Simon of Cyrene Society.

– Four more South Boston volunteers helping serve the St. Monica Christmas Banquet – Commissioner Bill, Rep. Nick, Sean Malone, Jr. (a budding engineer), and screen actor Sean Malone, Sr.

The K of C Post (Pere Marquette) serves Christmas dinner – Sean Malone, Mike McNally, Brendan Price, Bob Olson, Stephen Grieg (Jr.), Steve Greig, (Sr.),Ed Flynn,. Andrew Collins.

A montage of Christmas greetings in St. Monica Hall, created by the students at the South Boston Catholic Academy.

WWW.SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM

January 8, 2015

9

Christmas Banquet volunteer John Healey provides musical accompaniment to the Christmas Banquet in St. Monica Hall.

John Allison, Elaine Fallon, and Joan Strigler finish their coffee, as serving the Christmas Banquet in St. Monica Hall begins.

Yes, almost all of those in this photo are volunteers, working to provide Christmas dinners to 100 guests and over 100 shut-ins, who need their dinners delivered to their homes.

The busy serving line does not rest between 11 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. on Christmas Day, 2014, at the St. Monica Hall Banquet.

Mary, John, and their four children have become regulars at the St. Monica Hall’s Christmas Banquet.

A trio of friends dig in, after being served their Christmas dinner on St. Monica Hall’s Banquet.

Fr. Hennessey, who took part in Christmas Mass at St. Brigid this year, blesses the Banquet crowd, as Banquet Chair Tom Butler looks on.

Let the feasting begin. Love the hat!

10

January 8, 2015

WWW.SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM

“Hockey is his whole life”

BY KEVIN DEVLIN

He played in the South Boston Pop Warner Football League for two seasons and in the South Boston Youth Soccer League for four years. He’s played in the South Boston Youth Lacrosse League and in the Gate of Heaven CYO basketball program.

Although he still plays a variety of sports, “hockey” as his dad said, is his whole life. He simply loves the game.

His name is Cormac Lafferty.

Cormac, 11, is the son of Eugene and Kathy Lafferty. He also has a sister named Mae. He’s in the fifth grade at the Roxbury Prep Charter School which is located in Dorchester. He’s an Honor Roll student and his favorite subject is math. Someday, he’d like to be a professional hockey player or teach math. His favorite color is blue and he loves eating cheeseburgers from Rondo’s.

Cormac began his adventures in the world of hockey in the Learn to Skate

Business Owners!

We can LO W E R Your Insurance Premium!

Meet Cormac Lafferty and Learn to Play Programs, taught by Teddie Cunniff at the Murphy Rink.

This season he’s on the South Boston Youth Hockey League’s Pee Wee “B” squad, coached by Bobby McGarrell, Chris Crowley, and Mike Murray.

“I really enjoy hockey,” Cormac said.

“It helps make my legs stronger so I can skate faster. It’s a tough sport but fun to learn so I can get better. It’s a

Workers Compensation Professional Liability Umbrella/Excess Liability Commercial Auto Package Policies for:

Repair/Auto Body Shops

Car Dealerships Business Owners Policies for:

Condo Associations Apartments

Strip Malls Pizzerias/Subshops

Inland Marine Bonds Contracts Miscellaneous

For a FREE No Obligation Quote Call/

617-464-3777

Or email: sales@lighthouseins.net

www.lighthouseins.net 470 West Broadway ~ South Boston, MA 02127 Located above the Eastern Bank

lot of fun and I get to play with my friends.

Last week, at the Devine Rink in Dorchester against Hyde Park, he scored a hat trick and two assists in the team’s 6-0 victory. After the game, and for his spectacular performance on the ice, he was voted in by the players as the team’s caption for their next game.

Next month, five teams from the South Boston Youth Hockey League are going to Lake Placid. Cormac is counting the days.

“I can’t wait to go,” he said. “I think it’s great for us to have the chance to play

where the ‘miracle on ice’ happened.

I’m looking forward to watching the movie (which depicts this event) again when we get there. It’s gonna be great to be with my family and friends.”

Cormac also goes to public skating at the Murphy Rink on the weekends with his pals or hangs out with his cousin, Will Ahern, and plays hockey in his cousin’s driveway. He plays street hockey and rollerblade hockey at the outdoor rink behind the Murphy Rink. To top it off, he plays video hockey games and knee hockey with miniature sticks in his basement. And his favorite pros are Chicago Blackhawks center, Patrick Kane, and Tyler Seguin of the Dallas Stars. It’s mostly hockey, hockey and more hockey.

Cormac has successfully balanced his school work with his sporting endeavors and thus far has succeeded in both. His parents are proud of this.

They should be.

“He’s doing well in school,” his dad said. “He’s working hard in sports and loves hockey. He’s a great kid. He’s smart. He’s polite. He’s a good friend to his friends. All of this is important to us.”

BYHL: Update PeeWee A:

The boys had a busy week...

The Pee Wee A’s played Dorchester in the Mayor’s Cup semifinals on Tuesday night. Paddy Craddock, Dermot Murray, and John Joseph all had a goal apiece. Braeden Kennedy picked up two goals, one being shorthanded with under two minutes left in the game to bring Southie the victory, 5-4. In Valley League News, a New Year’s Eve game was a tough battle against the top seeded Concord Capitals, and with South Boston being down four players, they took a 3-0 loss.

Defensemen Niall Ryan, Andrew Hally, and Brian Miller all did an excellent job picking up shifts as forwards. On Saturday, Niall Ryan prevented the Worcester Sharks from getting a shutout with his goal in the 3rd period, as South Boston lost 5-1. Sunday night saw South Boston vs. Dorchester for the Mayor’s Cup Championship, in a great game played by both teams. Andrew Hally had an

assist, Nolan Callow had a goal and his assist to Braeden Kennedy was the game winner. Goalie Jack Feeney made some excellent saves, including a phenomenal cover up with just seconds left in the game.

Southie took the 2-1 victory and some new champion’s sweatshirts!

Squirt A:

The Squirt A’s started off the New Year with a win, beating ActonBoxboro Sunday morning 8-5.

Eddie Smith had a fantastic game, with 4 goals and 2 assists. Dillon Reedy had a goal and an assist, and goals were also scored by Matthew Reedy, John Gilmartin and Deven Dunlap. Patrick Harnan had an assist, and John Hamilton, Ethan Long, David Pittman, and Thomas Harnan played great defense.

Squirt B:

The Squirt B’s didn’t fare so well this weekend.

In a Saturday morning tilt vs. an undefeated Acton/Boxboro team, the Squirt B’s dropped an 8-2 decision. Goal

WWW.SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM

What do you think about this?

BY KEVIN DEVLIN

On New Year’s Day, over five hundred people participated in the “L” Street Brownies annual dip. Many of the participants obviously couldn’t find legitimate parking spaces so they opted to park on the grass along “M” Street Beach and in front of the Curley Recreation Center. I looked and could only wonder that there was something wrong with this picture. I just didn’t understand why authorities allowed people to park there.

“What’s the big deal,” said one South Boston resident. “It’s only for a short time on this occasion. So why not let them park there.”

Another South Boston resident had a different viewpoint on this matter.

“It’s a disgrace,” he said. “The state police should have ticketed everyone who parked here.

They aren’t parking spaces. It’s just not right.”

So what do you think? Should people be allowed to park in these areas on special occasions like the Brownies swim or on Saint Patrick’s Day? Should they be given a free pass?

I know one thing. On many nights in recent memory, plenty of South Boston residents wish they’d be given a free pass to park their vehicles on these areas, especially after driving around endlessly in search of a parking spot.

Happy New Year!

The South Boston Community Health Center- Institute for a Healthier Community is pleased to announce that the first Youth Ambassador meeting of the spring semester will be held Tuesday January 13, 2015 from 5:30 to 7:00p.m.

The location of the meeting is the South Boston Community Health Center, 409 West Broadway 3rd Floor. Youth ages 12 – 17 are encouraged to join the Youth Ambassador group to become involved with service projects, health related trainings and art based activities that engage youth in the life of the South Boston community.

The Youth Ambassador meetings will be held every Tuesday. January – June, 2015. This year Youth Ambassadors will be involved in a wide variety of activities and trainings to promote a healthier and more fulfilling life.

Applications to become a Youth Ambassador will be accepted for two weeks, at the January 13th and 20th meetings.

If you would like more information about the Youth Ambassador program please contact Mayra Rodriguez-Howard (617) 464-7423 or Linda Doran (617) 464-7463, at the South Boston Community Health Center.

January 8, 2015

11

South Boston Girls Softball will be hosting Clinics and Training for the 2015 Season at the Boston Athletic Club every Saturday during January and February: January 10th, 17th, 31st from 5:00PM to 6:00 PM January 24 from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM February 7th, 14th, 21st from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM Girls must be registered for the 2015 Season to participate REGISTRATION CAN BE COMPLETED ONLINE AT WWW.SOUTHBOSTONGIRLSSOFTBALL.COM The SBGS clinics allow players to come and learn new skills and sharpen old ones as we head into the New Year; it is also the time of year where players can spend time improving their skills and fundamentals to make themselves better players. These clinics ensure player improvement and team success. This clinic is open to any and all who are registered for the 2015 season.

Gate of Heaven CYO League Standings Boys Cadet League P.S. Deli Jack McDonough Club Metro Energy Nick Collins Club

Won Loss 7 1 4 4 3 5 2 6

Boys Midget League Bill Linehan Club Blasi’s Café Mt. Washington Bank Ryan Club Joe Evans Club 0

Won Loss 4 0 2 1 1 2 1 2 3

Girls Cadet League Olson/Caputo Club Hoop Dee Doo Kelly Collins Club Seaport Realty 1

Won Loss 3 1 2 2 2 2 3

Travel Teams Boys Won Loss 3rd & 4th Grade – Sister Pat Club 0 4 5th Grade – Massport 0 4 6th Grade 1 5 7th& 8th Grade 4 3 9th Grade–O’Brien’s Funeral Home 3 5 10th Grade-Boston Home Inspectors 6 0 9th & 10th Grade 5 3 11th & 12th Grade 5 2 18 & Under – Iron Wokers Local #7 4 1 Girls Won Loss 5th & 6th Grade 1 5 7th & 8th Grade 4 1 High School 2 3

12

January 8, 2015

WWW.SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM

“Fire & Ice” Festival at The Lawn on D

by Rick Winterson

Last August, South Boston Online reported on the opening and subsequent activities at the Convention Center’s Lawn on D. The Lawn on D is a great concept – a playground where people of all ages can, well, play, as well as relaxing and enjoying outdoor refreshments.

The beat continues, despite many 2015 New Year distractions and increasingly severe winter weather. Last weekend (Friday-Saturday-Sunday; JAN 2, 3, 4), the Convention Center arranged

an event they called the “Fire & Ice” Festival. It was quite an event – a spectacular, really.

The “Fire & Ice” Festival was actually two consecutive events: An afternoon devoted to ice, and an evening of firebased performances.

During Saturday and Sunday afternoons, families worked their ways through an ice maze constructed from massive blocks of ice. Their kids capered ahead, of course. During the afternoons’ festivities, a dancer on the stage led children of all ages in a slide

step. Two metal sculptures adorned the area where the lit-up swings were placed last summer. Tables with low fires in their center grates let visitors warm their hands safely.

The fiery events during the evenings were centered upon performances by fire dancers and fire breathers from the ART (American Repertory Theater) and Speakeasy Circus collaboration, who perform in the Oberon near Harvard Square. They were spectacular. The food trucks and the refreshments bar – made entirely of ice – did a

steady, land-office business. The crowd, although hard to estimate after dark, was several hundred at least. A snowstorm made the fiery events even more beautiful.

The entire concept of The Lawn on D has been extremely successful so far.

It combines numerous activities so that visitors of all ages, especially families with children, can enjoy themselves for hours at a time, or simply hang out in a safe, urban, outdoor setting.

Keep in touch with LawnOnD.com for future events.

A winter sculpture, “Macrocosm”, at the Fire & Ice afternoon.

The interior of the “Fire & Ice” maze at the Lawn on D.

T

H

I

N

K

Food trucks – Taco Truck, Stoked Pi zza – are (very) popular at “Fire & Ice”.

(THEN THINK EBSB.)

Go ahead. Build something big, something awesome, something that’s going to make a difference.The Commercial Real Estate Lending Team at East Boston Savings Bank has your back, with quick, local decisions on loans up to $50 million.

No one will work harder to help you build something great.

See how and get a look at our latest projects at EBSB.com/BIG. Or call 800-657-3272.

Partners

Member FDIC. Member DIF.

In Com munity Banking

A lit-up metal sculpture at the “Fire & Ice” spectacular.

WWW.SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM

January 8, 2015

13

The ice bar was a key evening attraction at “Fire& Ice” at The Lawn on D.

A fire-twirling dancer opens the Speakeasy/ART’s performance at “Fire & Ice”.

Three fire jugglers (one on another’s shoulders) at the “Fire & Ice” spectacular.

OOF !!! Speakeasy/ART’s fire-breathing performer at “Fire& Ice” at the Lawn on D.

Speakeasy/ART’s fire-tipped quarterstaff duelers awe their “Fire& Ice” audience.

The food trucks at “Fire & Ice” were big-time attractions all evening long.

An evening view across The Lawn on D during Saturday’s “Fire & Ice” events.

Speakeasy/ART fire dancers conclude their spectacular routine, in a snowstorm, yet.

14

January 8, 2015

WWW.SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM

REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS BUYER 1 (First) BUYER 1 (Last) Jason J Randall Thomas Paul John F Thomas V

BUYER 2 (First) BUYER 2 (Last) ADDRESS

Krzos Latona Nolan Odwyer Thomas G 185 West 5th Street 2 LLC Branagan Quirk Donna

Owyer

Quirk

137-139A Dorchester St #1D 695 E 8th St 468 E 7th St #6 66 Gates St #3 185 W 5th St #2 48 Coffey St #1D 25 Channel Center St #208

CITY

ZIP

South Boston South Boston South Boston South Boston South Boston Dorchester Boston

02127-2647 02127-4234 02127-4123 02127-3929 02127-2611 02122-2306 02210-3415

PRICE

DATE

284000 700000 399900 499000 364500 245500 1065000

12/11/14 12/12/14 12/11/14 12/12/14 12/12/14 12/11/14 12/12/14

LOOKING TO SELL YOUR HOME?

CALL ROONEY REAL ESTATE FOR A FREE MARKET ANALYSIS

617.269.1000

1-9-99

Jane Gonzales

1-9-15

16 Years

Mom, I had always wondered what your last thoughts were.

I’m sure you wanted to say goodbye to each of us in your own way.

I’m sure it bothered you that you weren’t able to.

There was no need to worry about that.

We knew and felt your love for us, each and every day of our lives, right to the end.

Your love for your children was so strong, no words were needed.

We felt it with every hug, smile, or just the way you looked at us.

Of course there were times we did or said something to make you mad (some more than others, haha).

We got our punishment and lessons learned.

After that, you puffed away on your camel filters (your way of chilling out).

Growing up you held our hands as long as we needed, then you let go.

Then when we needed, we held yours until it was our time to let you go.

We send our love & hugs.

Until we meet again mom, We’ll see you in our dreams Love, Nayna P.S. We miss you all Dad, Rick

INFORMAL PROBATE PUBLICATION NOTICE Docket No. SU14P2965EA

Commonwealth of Massachusetts The Trial Court Probate and Family Court

Estate of: Michael M. Kineavy Date of Death: October 7, 2014

Suffolk Division To all persons interested in the above captioned estate, by Petition of Petitioner Jacqueline A. Kineavy of South Boston MA A Will has been admitted to informal probate.

The estate is being administered under informal procedure by the Personal Representative under the Massachusetts Uniform Probate Code without supervision by the Court. Inventory and accounts are not required to be filed under the Court, but interested parties are entitled to notice regarding the administration from the Personal Representative and can petition the Court in any matter relating to the estate, including distribution of assets and expenses 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.

WWW.SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM

January 8, 2015

15

Cold Temps Bring Hot Real Estate Market

“What time of year should I sell my property?” It’s one of the most common questions I get asked as a broker – and the answer may surprise you.

If you had asked me 10 or 15 years ago, I would have told you that hands down the best time to sell was spring. If you wanted to get the best price for your property, you put your home on the market in April, May or June. The thought was that spring brought the buyers out in droves and properties would be almost guaranteed to sell for a great price.

Recently, the real estate market has begun to shift. Now, the coldest months of the year are bringing the hottest returns for sellers. According to a recent study published by Redfin, a national real estate corporation, the best months to sell are between January and March – with February surprisingly being the best month of the year to list a property.

Redfin’s researchers studied listings, sale prices and sale time data from January 2010 through October 2014. They found that since most people wait until the spring to list their property, the few properties that hit the market during the winter command more attention from prospective buyers. They also found that winter buyers tend to be more serious than summer buyers and tend to shop around less.

We’re seeing this same trend in Boston. There is an extremely low amount of inventory

buyers” away.

Another thing prospective sellers should keep in my mind is that interest rates are still low. Rates have been hovering around 4% for 30 year fixed rates – which means people are still looking to buy. And while many have driven themselves mad over the years trying to predict which way interest rates are going to go, one thing is certain – rates are not going to get any lower. In fact, after several years of appreciation, most are predicting that rates in the second half of this year will have to rise to around 5%. The market would be hard pressed to sustain any appreciation if this happens.

Graph from keepingcurrentmatters.com

So with limited inventory on the market, serious buyers on the prowl and a probable rise in interest rates around the corner, if someone were to ask me today when they should sell their property then my answer would be very simple – right now!

Jackie Rooney is Broker/Owner of Rooney Real Estate LLC and is one of the premier listing agents in Boston.

He was South Boston’s #1 agent for 25 of the last 29 years. Jackie can be reached at 617.645.5370.

Graph from Inman News

on the market right now, and the properties that do get listed are getting snatched up in no time at all. It seems not even the New England cold can keep these serious “winter

W 3rd St

3 Bedroom Apartment FoR Rent I St

Newly upgraded Two Bedroom 2 Bathroom with open concept living room/Dining Room/Kitchen! Lots of closet space. Large rear deck off the kitchen! Just one Block Walking Distance to Shops and Restaurants on West Broadway!

$2,200/mo

Perfect Location! Two blocks from East Broadways Bars, Shops and Buses. Large three bedroom one bath with eat in kitchen and large living room. Large private deck off kitchen.

$2,700/mo

Beautiful Large Three Bedroom

Newly Updated Rental on Glenrose Rd in Dorchester. Newly painted rooms, new bathroom updates and newly finished hardwood floors. Kitchen with large pantry opening into dining room and large living room. Two large bedrooms one smaller bedroom.

Private deck and use a common yard! A Must See! Call for pricing.

Shannon Rideout Buyer/Rental Agent

Cell: 508-254-8985 Office: 617-269-1000 Shannon@rooney-re.com

Michael Rooney

Buyer/Rental Agent Shannon Rideout Buyer’s / Rental Agent

Cell: 617-892-2292

Office: 617-269-1000 Cell: 508-254-8985 Office: Michael@rooney-re.com 617-269-1000 700 East Broadway Shannon@rooney-re.com South Boston

WWW.SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM

Rooney Real Estate

Time to list your home?

(See article inside on pg 15)

List it with South Boston’s Premier Seller’s Agent!

Jackie Rooney South Boston’s #1 Agent for 25 of the last 29 yrs.

Rooney Real Estate LLC - 700 E Broadway - 617.269.1000- www.rooney-re.com

Call Today for Your Home’s

Free Market Analysis

617.269.1000

www.rooney-re.com -617.269.1000 - facebook.com/RooneyRealEstate - 700 East Broadway

29 yrs

At Rooney Real Estate, satisfactory customer service is our guarantee. Our agents are responsive, thorough, and accountable and our consultative approach to working with clients has made Rooney Real Estate one of Boston’s premier real estate firms. With 20 years as an independent agency and over 29 years of real estate experience, rest assured that no one will work harder to make your real estate experience a good one!