THE PRINT EDITION
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2019
VOLUME XIX- ISSUE 74
John Beatty, Golden Bridges Award Recipient
South Boston’s John Beatty receives his “Pride in Service” Award at the Golden Bridges Conference.
by Rick Winterson
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n Thursday and Friday, November 14 – 15, the 2019 “Golden Bridges” Conference and Awards took place at the World Trade Center. This was the 11th annual Golden Bridges event here in South Boston’s Waterfront District. Over the years, Golden Bridges has built its reputation as the most important conference promoting
partnerships between “Ireland Northwest” (Donegal and Derry) and its many business partners in Boston and Massachusetts. The climax of the 2019 Golden Bridges Conference and Awards event was last Friday’s Awards Luncheon in the WTC’s Harborview Room. Ten Awards were presented to a varied field of Honorees. Among them was John Beatty from South Boston, who you might recall was the Parade Chief Marshal of last year’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade. Many of his local friends and his family members were on hand to see him accept his Award. The Awards Luncheon in the Harborview Room was a gala affair. It began with an elegant wine reception at 12:30 on Friday, the 15th. Nearly 200 conferees and guests took part in the luncheon. Its Keynote Speaker was the Hon. Martin J. Walsh, Mayor of the City of
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specific Award conferred upon South Boston’s John Beatty is called “The Pride in Service” Award. John is a West Point graduate, who served for in the military for 23 years, which eminently qualif ied him to be selected as the 2019 Parade Chief Marshal in last year’s St. Patrick ’s/Evacuation Day
Boston. The Mayor emphasized the many ways in which the Irish at Golden Bridges work together with the people of Boston and Massachusetts. His speech was well delivered; he used the Brexit issue as an example, which is a challenge that will require very close cooperation between us and Ireland Northwest. The Awards followed. The
Continued on Page 3
Mayor Marty Walsh congratulates Awardee John Beatty (far right) with his wife Maureen.
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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2019 SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM
Operation Thank a Vet
Mayor Walsh, Treasurer Deb Goldberg and Condon CC members Kash and Jayden Thank A Vet
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ast Saturday Treasurer Goldberg joined Mayor Walsh, the Mayor’s Office of Veterans Services and Ed Flynn, City Councilor to host their annual end of
the year Operation Thank A Vet a citywide effort to honor Boston’s veterans.” Volunteers met at the BCYF Condon in South Boston and went door-to-door to personally thank veterans for their service and provide them with a package of resources. Along with volunteers, Treasurer Goldberg and Mayor Walsh will celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Veterans’ Bonus, presenting Welcome Home Bonus checks to South Boston veterans and thanking them for their service. Through the Office of the Treasurer, the Veterans’ Bonus Division distributes bonuses for eligible active duty, discharged, and deceased Massachusetts veterans who served during various conflicts.
State Rep Biele, Treasurer Deb Goldberg, Mayor Walsh, Susan McDonough, Commander of the Martin F. McDonough American Legion Post 368, (and the 117th Chief Marshal for the St. Pat’s Day Parade) and Councilor Flynn at the Condon School for the City’s Operation Thank A Veteran.
OPINION: MBTA Breakdown:
Again and Again and Again….
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his week was the first of many expected SNAFU’s on the Red Line now that cold weather has set in. We were stopped at Savin Hill. The wait with regular updates of “we will be moving momentarily…” went on for 14 minutes before we were told that “this train is being taken out of service, another one is right behind us”. Now if you believe that alert you just have not yet gotten your Red Line sea legs. I trudged off the train with the hordes already jammed inside the cars and decided that the most reasonable thing to do was walk to Ashmont and home, hoping maybe a bus might rumble by. At the bottom of the stairs there was a bunch of folks glued to their phones. I tried to ask the best direction to Dot Ave, but no one looked up. Silly me, they were totally plugged into their devices, probably trying to score an Uber which by now knew of our woes and had jacked their fares accordingly. I did find a couple of people to ask; one did not know where Dorchester Ave was and the second one said “let me look it up on Google Maps”. I figured it out and starting hoofing
home in the chill which was getting chillier by the minute. Turns out there were no buses going my way for the 30 minute walk. Also turns out that I met 2 other fellow escapees from the moribund train. Both were gentleman and both were over 50 as was I. I do not want to widen the generation divide any more than it already appears to be and yet I wonder where we are all headed. For a brief moment on the dead train I wanted to break out in song, honoring the fact that we were all nice and warm on the train. Couldn’t even get anyone to look at me. Then I wanted to lead a protest that we as a group were not getting off the train. It would eventually move and were we all heading in that direction anyway, but trying to engage anyone in a smile, a nod, and a few brief words is considered mental illness, crossing boundaries, an attempt at a pick up or a robbery. As we head into the holiday season people can’t we all just lighten up a bit? Smile, speak or even engage in a conversation. Can we please unplug, read a book, not take up 2 seats, and offer a seat or a holiday goodie to someone in need.
Letter to the Editor - Pedestrain Safety Hello Southie Neighbors,
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he way that South B o s t o n’s main streets are set up today make it easy for drivers to drive dangerously, creating unsafe conditions for pedestrians. I was hit by a car as a pedestrian walking in the crosswalk in Southie last February and am frustrated by what I see as car-centered traffic management here. Car drivers have a sense of entitlement to the road that makes walking around the neighborhood treacherous in some places. Fortunately, there are several streets that can be quickly, easily, and inexpensively made safer if our elected officials know that there’s neighborhood
support
for
the
changes.
Most of the traffic safety problems in Southie are caused by the high rates of speed that a lot of car drivers use when they travel through Southie. The width of East and West Broadway made sense when there were trolleys on them, but now their lanes are wide enough to encourage speeds of at least 35 miles per hour. Drivers drive as fast as they feel safe going on a road. Wider streets make speeding feel safer. To make Southie sa fer for pedestria ns we have to narrow road widths. It’s also clear that there’s no need for more than one lane in each direction on East and West Broadway. Southie residents demonstrate this every day when
they pull over in the right hand lane and double park, blocking an entire lane often during rush hour. In the absence of adequate enforcement, these lanes should be eliminated. Instead they should be used to make biking, rollerblading, sk ateboa rd ing, etc. sa fer by providing a separate “slow lane.” Summer Street has an even worse speed problem. Between East Broadway and the reconstructed section in Fort Point, Summer Street feels like a pass-through highway. Car drivers speed 99% of the time and often go more than 45 miles per hour. Because it looks and feels like a highway, drivers travel at highway speeds. And yet almost all of them are cutting through Southie and will end up on slow and narrow
L Street. Drivers feel like they should be driving at highway speeds through Southie because that’s what they were just doing coming from downtown. That makes their behavior less safe once they’re at L Street. Narrowing the Summer Street lanes to restrict cars to a more safe speed will help pedestrians, bicyclists, and everyone else be safer all the way from South Station to the Curley Community Center. To a nyone who supports narrowing road widths, please consider reaching out to our city councilors and other elected officials to say so. We shouldn’t have to experience another injury or death caused by unsafe driving.
By Kara
SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2019 Continued from page 1
Bridges Awards Parade. For the last four years, after retiring from the militar y, John assumed the position of Executive Director of MASS-TF (the Massachusetts Military Asset and Security Strategy Task Force). In this position, he is Governor Charlie Baker’s liaison to the six military bases in the Commonwealth, which generate $13 billion worth of economic activities and employ more than 50,000 Bay State residents. John’s grandparents emigrated from Galway and Donegal in the early 1900s, and of course he’s a proud South Boston native as well.
Dorchester neighbor Jim Brett is the Golden Bridges’ “Bridge Builder” Awardee Our next-door neighbor in Dorchester, James T. “Jim” Brett, was also an Honoree,
receiving the Golden Bridges “Bridge Builder” Award. This Award recognizes Jim’s position as President and CEO of The
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New England Council. Under his leadership, the Council has promoted economic growth and a high quality of life. Another Award recipient you may know is Sean Mannion, who received the “Spoirad of Conamara” Award. Sean immigrated to Boston at 17. He was crowned U.S. Light Middleweight (147-154 pounds) Champion during A merica’s highly competitive 1980s boxing era. Golden Bridges named seven additional Awardees: Maureen Linehan, Kieran Kennedy. Mairin Ui Cheide, John McDaid, Eamon Kelly, Mary Anne McGonagle, and Dr. Laura M. Burke. T he G old e n Br id g e s C on f e r e n c e will return to Boston next year, right a f ter t he 2020 Elections.
Msgr. Thomas J. McDonnell and Frank Kelley Thanksgiving Dinner St. Monica’s Parish Hall - Thanksgiving Day (Corner of Old Colony Avenue and Prebble Street) Mass at 9:00 am Dinner at 11:30 am – 1:30 pm All are welcome
Thanksgiving Publication Date Wednesday, November 27
If you are unable to get out and would like a meal
delivered to your home please call 617-368-0091
After Wednesday please call 617-590-9922
This year, 2019, Thanksgiving Day falls on next Thursday, November 28. So, the next issue of South Boston Online will be printed and distributed one day early – on Wednesday morning, November 27. Please pick up your copy of South Boston Online the day before Thanksgiving. Because we are going to our printer a day early on the 20th, we ask that our advertisers send their orders and copy to us one day early also – no later than the close of work (5 p.m.) on Monday, November 25th.
Hosted by: The South Boston Catholic Parishes and the Elected Officials representing South Boston
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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2019 SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM
Take the 2019 Laboure House Tours – Saturday, December 07; Sunday, December 08 by Rick Winterson
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his is an article about the 2019 Laboure Christmas House Tours on Saturday, December 7, and Sunday, December 8. But we will start off by recommending that you take time to visit The Shoppe at Laboure, either before or after your Christmas House Tour. The Shoppe at Laboure markets unbelievably beautiful and unusual Christmas decorations and gifts. It is located right inside the Laboure Center at 275 West Broadway, where the House Tours begin. The Shoppe will be open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday, the 7th, and from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday, the 8th. You’ll definitely be dazzled; refreshments are available. The full and formal title of this year’s event is “The 29th Annual Laboure Christmas House Tour”. The Tour
Danielle McClure, proprietress of Neatly Nested, by her shop’s window and holding an array of Christmas pillows. has really become a true South Boston tradition. This year, the Tour’s homes grace K Street, East Fourth Street, East Broadway, East First Street, and P Street. The homes on the Tour include condos, single family, and multifamily homes. You’ll find each home decorated using a central theme, such as “White Christmas” (Irving Berlin would be pleased) or “Christmas Traditions”. Many of the homes have been
recently renovated and thus combine traditional and contemporary features. Each of these homes has a story to tell. Each one has been adorned by dedicated (and voluntary!) professional decorators: Karen Bartolomei (a Laboure House Tour second-timer), Danielle McClure (of Neatly Nested), Nicole Hathaway (Dimella Shaffer), Charlotte Noyes (Elkus/Manfredi Architects), and Prof. Nancy Hackett (Suffolk University School of Design). And there’s history here. The K Street home (“Gatsby Christmas”) was originally the parsonage for the South Boston Baptist Church.
The East First Street home (“Magical Bear Den”) is now a penthouse within the Walworth Company’s sole remaining structure. On East Broadway, the lovingly restored House Tour dwelling (“Christmas Traditions”) has its original woodwork and an antique map collection; the House Tour home on East Fourth (“Dreaming of a White Christmas”) boasts a stunning entry, façade, and interior from the 1800s. Don’t miss these incomparable displays of Christmas decorating skills. South Boston Online interviewed one of the decorators, Danielle McClure of Neatly Nested located at E and West Broadway. Danielle is decorating her home on P Street in a Christmas-themed farmhouse style. She says, “Think classic reds and whites, done in a casual, comfortable, nostalgic metier.” Be sure to look for Danielle’s individually themed trees in every room. Her decorations include items taken from her own collection, lent from Neatly Nested, and borrowed from Laboure. And Neatly Nested is offering a giveaway – two tickets to the Saturday evening twilight House Tour in a gift basket. Go to their Instagram@neatlynesteddecor to enter.
Friends & Family Shopping Pass The Christmas Shoppe at Laboure Shop Thousands of New Holiday Gifts, Decorations, Nutcrackers, Santas, Wreaths, Mantle Decor, Tabletop Trees, and Much More!
Receive $25 in Free Merchandise when you spend $100.
All Proceeds benefit the programs at Laboure. Sale Dates: Saturday, November 16, 2019 10 am to 3 pm Saturday, December 7, 2019 10 am to 8 pm Sunday, December 8, 2019 10 am to 4 pm 275 West Broadway, South Boston
Here are the specific 2019 House Tour Details: SATURDAY, December 7 – Twilight Tour ($50), 4 to 6 p.m., followed by an informal, complimentary food-and-drink reception at the Laboure Center, 275 West Broadway, where parking and transportation to the Christmas Tour Homes are available. SUNDAY, December 8 – Daytime Tour ($25 in advance, $30 that day), 12 noon to 4 p.m. Transportation by bus to Christmas Tour Homes provided from the Laboure Center and from Castle Island (ample parking there). ONLINE TICKETS & INFO at www.ccab.org/christmashousetour2019. Or call Laboure directly at 617-464-8500.
SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2019 319 K Street - “Gatsby Christmas”
Built in the late 1800’s this grand single family home resides on a street known for historic stately homes. Originally owned by the South Boston Baptist Church it was first utilized as a parsonage house for clergy. It became a more traditional home in the early 1900’s during a time known as “The Jazz Age” or “The Roaring Twenties”, the period during which The Great Gatsby was set. It very is easy to envision the glamor of that timeframe when touring this home. During a major renovation three years ago the homeowners
were careful to preserve much of this home’s original charm including meticulous repointing of the brick exterior and restoration of the front door and trim. Inside, three marble fireplace mantels remain and original double doors (discovered in the attic!) were refurbished and installed in the living room. Conversely, several contemporary accents were added during renovation, including the first level’s oak floors and ceramic tile and the kitchen’s Thermafoil high gloss white cabinets and Cesar stone countertops. Removal of walls between the kitchen, hall and living room expanded living space to have a more airy and open feel. This living space continues outdoors where the backyard has become an open patio designed with concrete pavers. This fabulous outdoor area is perfect for play dates, barbecues and for entertaining family and friends! Holiday Decorations by Dimella Shaffer
796 East Fourth Street - “Dreaming of a White Christmas”
Guests to this stunning home enter through original double front doors adorned with beautiful stained glass windows. A meticulous renovation of this majestic 1890 home has retained the traditional character of the past while embracing the present. Charming fireplaces and high ceilings with intricate medallions frame the book cased living room and dining room. Original mold i ng s, ba n n i ster s a nd woodwork gleam throughout this three level, four bedroom home.
Sunny and classic, this home features thirty-one windows and hardwood f loors throughout. New kitchens, bathrooms and windows modernized this classic gem. An open f loor plan designed for modern living includes pocket doors to separate, or combine, the living room and dining room. A state of the art chef ’s kitchen features state of the art appliances and cozy space making it the perfect spot for family time or entertaining guests. Tranquil shades of grey, blue and white perfectly ref lect “Dreaming of a W hite Christmas.” Guests who have never visited before might think they have seen this home before and they may be correct… it was featured in the 2009 Cameron Diaz movie called “The Box.” It is no wonder that Holly wood came knocking on this magnificent home… it is the perfect blend of Victorian charm and urban chic. Holiday Decorations by Karen Bartolomei
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801 East Broadway - “Christmas Traditions”
This brick bow-front row house, built in the early 1860’s – and restored as a single family home in 2010 – is a fine example of traditional design. Poised at the crest of the hill leading down East Broadway, this home’s black trim, decorative cast iron railing and red double doors offer a warm welcome to visitors. All the original stained woodwork and wainscoting were restored on the first two f loors. The original walnut stairs were
also restored and it is there that visitors can see a collection of nineteenth century street maps of South Boston and Boston. Three original mantels with gold mirrors are stunning accents, as are the restored chandeliers that hang in the main living rooms. The recently up-dated kitchen boasts white and black cabinets with quartz countertops, a white enamel table topped in black toile and a butcher block island built by the homeowner. At Christmas, the owners showcase a charming collection of Byer’s Choice figurines and wooden decorations from a recent trip to Germany. Year round, they and their guests enjoy views of Medal of Honor Park and the JFK Library. This home is filled with breathta k ing a ntiques and precious family treasures. C hr i st m a s Decoration s by Suf folk Universit y
881 East First Street, #504 - “Magical Bear Den”
Erected in 1898, t his building is the sole remaining structure of the former Walworth M a nu f a c t u r i n g C omp a ny. This historic brick building wa s or ig i na l ly remodele d in 1999 and became home to c ondom in iu m s k now n, collectively, as the First Street Lofts. During the conversion of this once industrial building much of the original design was preserved with cast iron lintels, heavy timbers and original rock maple f loors. The home on this
year’s Christmas House Tour – a fabulous penthouse – is on the fifth f loor which was added to the original four f loors when the building was converted. The gorgeous open living space offers spectacular city views. A gallery wall of unique art and a collection of Buddhas and other finds – collected during the homeowners’ travels – accent this breathtaking home. An exquisite crystal chandelier hangs over the dining room table, the perfect place for guests to gather. Earthy, neutral color tones throughout lend themselves to the unique decoration theme of “Magical Bear Den” where guests may feel they have stumbled upon an unassuming bear den. Magically, guests are engulfed in shimmer & shine, glitz & glamor. Scents of evergreen, sparkle and twinkle… this home is truly magical at Christmas and all year long! C hr i st m a s Decoration s by Elkus Manfredi
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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2019 SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM
Collins, State Senate Pass Pharmacuetical Transparency Legislation PACT Act Will Protect Seniors, Reduce Prescription Drug Costs, and Increase Patient Access
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tate Senator Nick Collins a nd The Massachusetts State Senate recently passed An Act relative to Pharmaceutical Access, Costs and Transparency (PACT Act), a comprehensive pharmaceutical cost control bill aimed at addressing the high and rapidly increasing costs of prescription drugs. By connecting the need for greater drug price transparency with policies to improve oversight over t he pha rmac eut ic a l industry, the legislation will put Massachusetts at the forefront of the state’s efforts to tackle
increasing drug costs. It will also reduce drug costs to patients and lower health care costs overall. “Rising costs of health care, and specifically prescriptions, is a burden to seniors, patients and their families all across the State,” said Senator Nick Collins. “From seniors, to those living with diabetes and other conditions requiring frequent medication, this legislation will reduce barriers to affordable treatment, and ensure transparency and accountability in the pharmaceutical industry.” High drug prices act as barriers to patients, who often cannot access the medications they need due to prohibitive costs. The PACT Act contains enha nced a c c o u nt a b i l it y tools to address these barriers. The legislation of fers
The Joseph Nee South Boston Collaborative Center Would like to say... Thank You to everyone who attended, bought a ticket or donated a raffle. Also, thank you to our Sponsors and Board of Directors.
Congratulations to Robert Pacitti - Recipient of Darlene Sheehan Beacon of Hope Award!
immediate price relief for insulin—a life sustaining drug for the one in 10 Massachusetts residents living with diabetes who must take it daily or else face substantial health risks and complications. Consumers have recently been experiencing sharp insulin price increases, resulting in out-of-pocket costs that can easily reach $1,000 or more per year for someone who is in a high-deductible plan or underinsured. This financial burden often forces a person to engage in the dangerous practice of severely limiting or forgoing altogether the use of insulin. To address this problem, the PACT
Act limits out-of-pocket spending by eliminating deductibles and coinsurance for insulin and capping co-pays at $25 per month. The Senate also championed the inclusion of provisions in the FY2020 budget to allow MassHealth to directly negotiate supplemental drug rebates to save the state millions of dollars each year. The PACT Act takes several more important steps forward to rein in drug costs and improve patient access throughout the health care system. T he le g i slat ion now moves to the House of Representatives for consideration.
Councilors Flynn & Flaherty, DND to Host Meeting on Senior Programs
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oston City Councilor Ed Flynn & Councilor At- Large Michael Flaherty, in partnership with the Department of Neighborhood Development (DND) and the Boston Home Center, will be holding an informational meeting on senior home repair programs offered by the city. The meeting will be held on December 7th at 11am in the South Boston Library. This event will serve as an opportunity for residents to learn more about programs such as Seniors Save and the Senior Home Repair. These programs are for eligible seniors who can obtain 0% interest loans to replace aging heating systems, or to make repairs on their homes. The Boston Home Center and Boston Department of Neighborhood Development will discuss the application process and provide information on these programs to interested residents. “Seniors Save and Senior Home Repair are va luable programs offered by the city to help our seniors stay safely and comfortably in their homes,” said the Councilors in a joint statement. “Thank you to the Department of Neighborhood
Development and the Boston Home C enter for you r commitment to our seniors and your partnership. I will continue to work closely with our city departments and residents to raise awareness about available re sou rc e s a nd prog r a m s.” For more information, please contact Councilor Flynn’s office at 617-635-3203 or Councilor Fla her t y at 617- 635 - 4205
SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2019
NE Patriot Jermaine Wiggins to Appear at Sports Hall of Fame Fundraiser
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he South Boston Sports Hall of Fame Scholarship Trust Fund will be celebrating its 25th Anniversary with a fundraising celebration on Saturday, November 23, 2019 from 7-11 PM at Florian Hall, with DJ Dru Errico providing the entertainment. They will also be celebrating the 40th Anniversary of the South Boston Sports Hall of Fame. New England Patriot Super Bowl Champ, Jermaine Wiggins will appear for the celebration. Wiggins was also East Boston High School football star and is currently a sports radio personality. The Scholarship Trust Fund is a
non-profit organization that was started by the founding members of the Hall of Fame in 1995 as a way to give back to the youth in their community by providing scholarship grants to South Boston students. Since then they have awarded 191 scholarships totaling $276,500 to outstanding collegebound students who are academically excellent, have a reasonable family need and demonstrate good citizenship and community involvement. If you or a family member are one of the over 380 Hall of Fame inductees or 191 scholarship recipients, please come out for a good old fashioned Southie fundraiser that will raise money for the scholarship fund. The City of Boston Credit Union is sponsoring the event. Tickets are $20. each. They are available at the door or from trustees of the scholarship fund by emailing SouthBostonHallofFame@ gmail.com or at facebook.com/ SouthBostonHallof Fame. You can also buy tickets online at eventbrite.com. More information listed on page 11
Susan McDonough 117th Chief Marshal for St. Pat’s Day Parade 2020 The South Boston Allied War Veterans Council is proud to announce that the 117th Chief Marshal, for the 2020 South Boston St. Patrick’s Day / Evacuation Day Parade is Susan McDonough. Susan is a South Boston native, a US Army veteran, a member of the Women Veterans’ Network Steering Committee under the Massachusetts Department of Veterans’ Services, serves as Commander of Martin F. McDonough Post #368, and is a member of the South Boston Allied War Veterans Council.
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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2019 SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM
Books in Gaelic Now at Library
Paudie Walsh plays Irish airs on his melodeon at the Library.
by Rick Winterson
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demographic description at first: Udaras na Gaeltachta means “Gaeltacht (Irish-speaking) Authority”. It is an agency in Ireland that is responsible
economic development of Ireland’s Irish-speaking regions, as well as preserving and extending the Irish language itself. The Udaras headquarters are in Galway; branches exist in Donegal, Mayo, Meath, Kerry, Cork, and Waterford. The Udaras na Gaeltacht was in Boston last week for two reasons: First, to take part in the “Golden Bridges” economic event at the World Trade Center, and second, to further the use of the Irish (Gaelic) language here in South Boston. Led by Maire Mairead Ni Bhiadha, its Executive Officer, Udaras na Gaeltachta in Galway made a very generous donation of Irish books to our Branch Library at 646 East Broadway. The formal donation was accepted
A fine finishing touch – books in Gaelic (e.g., “Na Tri Mhuicin”). and recognized at 6 p.m. last Wednesday night, November 13. This contribution numbered in the hundreds upon hundreds of books. Many were in English; even more were in the Irish language – or Gaelic, if you prefer, except that Scottish is also a form of Gaelic. Speakers of Irish Gaelic and Scottish Gaelic can understand each other to some extent, but they are really two different tongues. In a (very) nice touch, many of the books given by the Udaras are children’s books. Look for “Na Tri Mhuicin” (Three Little Pigs). Some of these books are basic language learning books. See if your kids can begin speaking Irish – kids are natural mimics and can learn to speak languages with ver y little diff icult y.
Ronan Mac Con Iomaire, the keynote speaker
Our Branch Librarian Jane Bickford opened the evening, after some lilting Irish airs were played on his melodeon by Paudie Walsh. The evening’s speaker was a writer named Ronan Mac Con Ionare. He strongly emphasized the bond between Western Ireland (the Gaeltacht) and Boston, especially South Boston. Among Ronan’s books is the story of Sean O’Mannion, who won a reputation as “Rocky Ros Moc”, the man who was never knocked down. Refreshments and mixing followed. It was a memorable happening, highlighted by the very thoughtful gift of books in Irish for children. What better way to keep Irish speaking alive than to give it to our kids? Thank you very much, Ud a r a s na G a e lt a c ht a .
SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2019
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Toys for Tots 2019 Kickoff
by Rick Winterson
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ast Thursday morning, the first, “official” Christmas event in South Boston took place. To be exact, it took place in South Boston’s Design Center at 21 Drydock Avenue on the seventh floor. This is the home of Boston’s facility supporting “Toys for Tots” – a vast warehouse space, now filled with large, empty cardboard cartons and piles of toys. By Christmas, these cartons will be filled to overflowing with hundreds of thousands of toys to be given to less fortunate local children as gifts. The City of Boston’s Mayor Marty Walsh spearheaded the opening ceremony last Thursday morning. His remarks, as always, went right to the point – speaking of how Toys for Tots
benefits the community around us and warmly thanking the Marines for leading the way in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve “Toys for Tots” Program. Toys for Tots supporters from other agencies, such as the State Police and the Boston Fire Department, were also on hand, as were a number of key Toys for Tots participants – those many, many kindhearted volunteers who give so much of their time and energy to Toys for Tots. A short history lesson about Toys for Tots: Seventy-two (72) years ago in 1947, Major Bill Hendricks, with the help of his Los Angeles Marine Corps Reserve unit, collected and distributed 5,000 toys to needy children. His program was so successful that the U.S. Marin Corps adopted it and expanded it nationwide. Over the years since then, the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve “Toys for Tots” Program has collected and distributed 548 million toys – that’s 548,000,000! Today, Toys for Tots is the Marine Corps’ premier community action program. To many Americans, Christmas isn’t Christmas until they see uniformed Marines giving out toys to less fortunate children in their communities. During the last few years, Marines have given out 18 million (18,000,000) toys annually, to more than seven million (7,000,000) kids at each Christmas.
The South Boston Christmas Stroll Thursday, December 5th 4:00pm Get ready to start your Christmas shopping locally and celebrate the Holiday Season! On Thursday, December 5th take part in the South Boston Christmas Stroll! This free, fun-filled event starts at 4pm. Business establishments will be open until various times. Sip, Shop and Dine your way around South Boston and take advantage of special discounts and one-night only promotions at local shops and restaurants. Enjoy one night of incredible savings at more than 40 local retail establishments, restaurants and salons and more along East and West Broadway.
Splurge at participating businesses that will be displaying a Big Red Bow! This year’s Christmas Stroll will include: The Original Dickens Carolers will be strolling along East and West Broadway starting at 4:00pm Free hot chocolate & holiday treats will be served – Sponsored by Jack Conway Cityside Real Estate
Boston Mayor Marty Walsh kicks off the 2019 Toys for Tots drive in South Boston’s Design Center.
Free Magic show at 4:00pm– at Bringing up Baby (663 East Broadway) A visit from Santa (arriving on an antique Fire Truck) at 5:00p.m The East Broadway tree lighting - taking place at 5:30 p.m. outside of the South Boston LibraryFeel free to take your own pictures with Santa inside of the South Boston Library Free Pedi Cabs will be available to transport attendees along East and West Broadway from 6:00-8:00pm
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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2019 SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM
South Boston Catholic Academy News
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ovember 19, 2019 | South Boston, MA – Sout h Boston Catholic Academy is pleased to announce they will be receiving scholarship support for 31 students for the 20192020 school year from the InnerCity Scholarship Fund (ICSF).
ICSF is the signature program of the Catholic Schools Foundation. This year, ICSF will be providing nearly $10 million in scholarship support to more than 4,000 students in the Archdiocese of Boston. The ICSF has been dedicated to creating accessibility to a high quality, values-based education for lowincome families for three decades. “The students supported through the ICSF are the future leaders of our society and we are thrilled to be able to invest in them through a Catholic education,” said Mike Reardon, Executive Director of the Catholic Schools Foundation.” South Boston Catholic Academy is a preschool through grade six school with over 400 students. We embrace excellence in education and a firm belief in the uniqueness of the individual. Inspired by the traditions of our Catholic faith, family spirit, and academic excellence, we are committed to meeting the spiritual, academic, physical, and social needs of individual students within a learning environment that is both stimulating and supportive. We strive to
develop within our students the skills and values needed to become successful, morally conscious members of society. “The funding provided by the Catholic Schools Foundation (CSF) Inner-City Scholarship Fund enables us to live out our mission and bring high quality education to children in our city. We are fortunate that this funding provides access to our deserving students and look forward to continuing our long standing partnership with CSF,” says Jamie Brown, Assistant Principal. The Catholic Schools Foundation (CSF) is the premier non-profit institution for granting aid to low-income students to attend Catholic elementary and high school in the Archdiocese of Boston. CSF’s tax exempt 501(c) (3) status is separate from the diocese, allowing companies and individuals who are unable to donate to religious organizations to support disadvantaged youth in the Archdiocese. Over the past three decades, CSF has distributed more than $100 million in scholarship aid to over 50,000 students in the Greater Boston community. With an astounding 100% high school graduation rate, these scholarships are transforming lives and futures. CSF has earned the highest possible rating (4-stars) through Charity Navigator based on its financial health, accountability and transparency for five consecutive years.
Tynan Community Center Council Would Like to Thank Their Sponsors for a Successful Fundraiser
Mayor Martin J. Walsh Congressman Stephen F. Lynch Senator Nick Collins Rep. David Biele City Councilor Michael F. Flaherty City Concilor Edward Flynn Mike Donovan, Clerk of Courts MJW Foundation City of Boston Credit Union Do Do Nee Foundation Kick off for Kids Kaitlyn Keaney fund GA Donovan Roza Lyons Quiet Man Pub Foundation Sullivan’s Castle Island Gatey C YO Gavin Foundation 6-Twelve Convenience Story BCYF Foundation Perkins Post IBEW Local 103 Rondos
SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2019
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BCYF Tynan Happenings Our annual Wrestling show/ fundraiser was a great success! UFO wrestling put on a great show for the kids as the tynan gym was packed. The kids ate pizza and snacks and had a great time including all the bcyf sites that participated. The Tynan council raised around $9000 dollars through tickets sales and sponsors, who were very generous! All proceeds go right back into our programs for the youth and families. Tee Shirts and equipment are purchased each year for the youth flag football league, youth floor hockey league, youth basketball league/ instructional basketball program. Tots and juniors, co-ed adult volleyball league and wiffleball tournaments to name some of our gym programs. Our teen center and afterschool
drop in program also benefits as we can purchase new board/video games, ping-pong / shuffleboard tables. Healthy snacks for the afterschool kids and pizza nights for the teens on Friday nights so our kids stay off the streets! Various field trip take place through out the year
also due in part from the council fundraising and I know the kids appreciate all that is done on their behalf because of all the fun they have. (Canobie lake park-redsox/ Celtics games, mini golf-duck toursfranklin park zoo -Wang theatre etc.) The council and bcyf staff also organizer’s many special events because of the funds that are raised. Just this past October we Presented “The Family Fun Fest “whereas the playground was dressed up in fall fashion with haystacks/cornstalks and pumpkins. Hot apple cider and apple cider donuts were served to hundreds
of youth and families as the kids had fun playing in the bouncy house, painting pumpkins and participating in sack racing and best Halloween costumes. The council provided for all including prizes and goody bags! The Tynan Council also runs the annual Children’s Christmas party with presents from Santa along with food and beverages for all! This year we are looking to turn it up a bit as we prepare for “A MIRACLE ON FOURTH STREET”. More on this later! There is a special thank you in this week’s edition for all our sponsors!
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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2019 SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM
Councilor Flynn Update on Short Term Rental Hearing
Ed Flynn Last week, Boston Cit y Councilor Ed Flynn held a hearing on the implementation of the Short Term Renta ls (A irbnb) Ordina nce at the Boston City Council. The aim of the hearing was to discuss any
potential issues or loopholes that may exist regarding enforcement of t he ordina nce a nd t he removal of investor units or large corporations. The hearing brought together city officials, advocates, a nd residents to discuss t he implementation a nd impacts of t he Shor t Term Renta l Ordinance. At t he he a r i n g , I n sp e c t ion a l Ser vices Depa r tment (ISD) C om m i s sioner Dion I r i sh te st i f ied t hat a n inve stor property at 796 East 4th St that was brought to ISD’s attention by Councilor Flynn’s office as non-owner occupied, ha s since been deactivated f rom t he cit y’s d at aba se. Held on November 14th, the hearing was co-sponsored by Councilor Michelle Wu and Councilor Lydia Edwards.
Councilor Flynn and advocates spoke about i nst a nc e s of ineligible short term renta l operators still operating in advance of the December 1st deadline, as well as recent cases where companies are attempting to convert units to executive suites. Administration officials spoke about the process of registering short term rental units, how the Inspectiona l Ser vices Depa r tment (ISD) enforces t he ordina nce, a s well as relevant data so far i n ter m s of c ompl ia nc e. In the hearing, Councilor Flynn also spoke about proof of residence and owner occupancy required to obtain a short term renta l permit, and whether there are ways to strengthen the Primar y Residence evidence. So far, there are roughly 1,500
applications for short term rental permits, with approximately 600 approved. ISD testif ied that they continue to enforce the ordinance and investigate complaints about ineligible units. “Thank you the residents of B o s ton a nd hou si n g advocates who came to testify about the impact of short term rental investor units and large c or porat ions on ou r hou sing stock and the quality of life in our neighborhoods,” said Councilor Flynn. “Enforcement is key for our city moving for ward. I will continue to work closely with cit y of f icia ls a nd residents to ensu re t hat ou r commu nit ie s are protected from the negative impacts of non-owner occupied, short term rental investor units.” For more information or to report non-owner occupied units, please contact Councilor Flynn’s of f ice at 617- 635-3203
SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2019
Julie’s Family Learning Program Holds Open House Last Saturday, the 16th, Julie’s Family Learning Program celebrated their educational programs and expanded offerings with an Open House, so the public could become better acquainted with their teaching mission. Founded in 1974 by Srs. Jean Sullivan and Louse Kearns SND de Namur, Julie’s is named for “The Smiling Saint”, St. Julie Billiart, who started the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur in 1804, 215 years ago.
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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2019 SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM
Public Meeting
Public Meeting
South Boston Seaport Strategic Transit Plan
15 Necco Street Monday, December 2
300 A Street
Monday, December 9
290 Congress Street
6:00 PM
1st Floor
5:30 PM - 7:30 PM
BSA Space, Fort Point Room (Second Floor)
Boston, MA 02210
Boston, MA 02210
Project Description:
Description: The South Boston Seaport Strategic Transit Plan will prioritize specific recommendations to improve the operations, capacity, and connectivity of the transit network (MBTA buses, Red and Silver Line stations, shuttles, ferries, etc.) serving Boston’s Seaport District. Open House - 5:30 to 6:00 PM: Overview of the proposed transit strategies & evaluation methodology to improve transit.
BPDA-hosted Article 80 Public Meeting to discuss the proposed Notice of Project Change and Fifth Amendment to the Master Plan for Planned Development Area No. 69, South Boston/The 100 Acres for the 5 and 15 Necco Street Project, which comprises an approximately 2.7-acre site in the Fort Point neighborhood of Boston, and for which the General Electric (GE) Headquarters Project was previously slated for construction.
Presentation - 6:00 to 7:00 PM: Presentation of the proposed transit strategies & evaluation methodology in more detail. Other topics include study overview, progress since the October meeting, updates on modeling & next steps. Open House Continued/Feedback Opportunity - 7:00 PM: Opportunity to ask questions & provide feedback on the proposed transit strategies & evaluation methodology. mail to:
phone: email:
mail to: Aisling Kerr Boston Planning & Development Agency One City Hall Square, 9th Floor Boston, MA 02201 phone: 617.918.4212 email: aisling.kerr@boston.gov
Jim Fitzgerald Boston Planning & Development Agency One City Hall Square, 9th Floor Boston, MA 02201 617.918.4327 james.fitzgerald@boston.gov BostonPlans.org
@BostonPlans
Close of Comment Period: 12/20/2019
BostonPlans.org
Teresa Polhemus, Executive Director/Secretary
@BostonPlans
Teresa Polhemus, Executive Director/Secretary
The Law Office of
Paul J. Gannon PC General Practice of Law
Criminal Defense Personal Injury Motor Vehicle Accidents Establishment of Corporations, LLCs Wills & Estate Planning Real Estate Litigation Probate No Charge for Initial Consultation
82 West Broadway South Boston, MA (617)269-1993 pgannon@paulgannonlaw.com
AIR POLLUTION CONTROL COMMISSION (APCC) PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE Notice is hereby given that the City of Boston Air Pollution Control Commission will hold a Public Hearing on December 18, 2019 at 11:30 A.M. in Room 900 of Boston City Hall, Boston, Massachusetts. The Commission will consider the proponent’s request for a modified permit for the project completed at 407-411 D Street, Boston, MA, pursuant to the Procedures and Criteria for the Issuance of Parking Freeze Permits adopted under M.G.L. Chapter 111, Section 31C. The proposed permit involves: Five (5) inventoried parking spaces and one hundred and twenty-two (122) excluded residential spaces to accommodate a mixed-use building with approximately 4,692 square feet of commercial space and 177,140 square feet of residential space. This modification is for the conversion of a surface lot to an aboveground garage with inventoried spaces to be shared between prospective tenants, employees, and guests of the building. Modification of the permit would return 75 inventoried spaces to the South Boston parking freeze bank. Sign language interpreters will be provided upon prior request. A copy of the application is available for public inspection at Boston City Hall, Room 709, from 9 AM to 5 PM Monday through Friday. Questions should be directed to: APCC@boston.gov or 617-635-3850
For the Commission, Alison Brizius, Executive Director Air Pollution Control Commission City of Boston Environment Department Boston City Hall, Room 709 Boston, Massachusetts 02201 617-635-3850
SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2019
Copley Square Tree Lighting The Boston Parks and Recreation Department and The Friends of Copley Square welcome the holidays with the annual Copley Square Tree Lighting on Monday, December 2, starting at 5 p.m. This free event will feature appearances by NECN’s Jenny Johnson, Santa Claus, and Rudolph along with musical performances by vocalist Alexus Lee, the Voices Boston Children’s Chorus, the Boston Pops Brass Quintet, a duet featuring Boston Police Officers Kim Tavares and Stephen McNulty, and Berklee College of Music’s own Sam Robbins. Light refreshments will be provided by Drake’s Cakes, HP Hood LLC, and attendees are invited to stop by the Fios Treat Truck to enjoy baked goods compliments of Verizon Fios. The Fairmont Copley Plaza will host a family reception immediately following for all in attendance. The reception will include cookie decorating, photos with Santa and treats from the Fairmont Copley Plaza. Other 2019 holiday celebrations hosted by the Boston Parks and Recreation Department include the lighting of the trellis at Christopher Columbus Park on the Boston Harbor waterfront November 25 and the Boston Common Tree Lighting on December 5. The arrival of Boston’s official 2019 Christmas tree, a 45-foot white spruce tree donated by Desmond Waithe and Corina Saunders of Chance Harbour, Nova Scotia, will be celebrated on Boston Common at approximately 11 a.m. on November 19.
For more information, call (617) 635-4505 or go to www.boston.gov/parks.
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Boston Common Tree Lighting
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T h u r s d a y, D e c e mb e r 5t h 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. bring the whole family out to the Boston Common Tree Lighting Ceremony to kick off the winter season! Join The Skating Club of Boston at The Boston Common Frog Pond for a free figure skating show on ice. You’ll watch the best national and international competitive figure skaters, as well as soloists, groups, Team Excel Synchronized Skating, and Theatre On Ice of Boston teams! Don’t miss this extraordinary free event perfect for all ages. A f ter t he ice sk ating show, Mayor Marty Walsh will present The Boston Common Tree Lighting Ceremony to the community. This tree is a traditional gift from the province of Nova Scotia since 1917. You’ll also see Santa in addition to members of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. Enjoy music, warm refreshments, and lots of entertainment throughout the evening. The tree lights will go on just before 8:00 pm followed
by f ireworks!, and then the lights of all the other spectacular trees will follow throughout the Common and the Public Garden. Let’s plan to meet at 6pm by the Park Street T station to wander through food vendors and other festivities before finding a good viewpoint for the lighting. Plan to dress warmly! Hope you will join us!
IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD South Boston
South Boston APAC · 424 West Broadway Wednesdays, 10 AM - 1 PM November 20 & December 18
Come meet with Boston Water and Sewer Commission staff in your
Neighborhood and learn why it’s important not to pour fats, oils or grease (FOG) down the sink or toilet. You can also pay your water bill with a check or money order, talk about billing or service problems, and more.
Cool it! Can it! Trash it!
Pour grease into a covered disposable container and put it into the trash.
Come meet our team!
SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2019 THE PRINT EDITION