South Boston Online 12.24.13

A FREE THURSDAY PUBLICATION

THURSDAY DECEMBER 24, 2013

SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM

A Christmas Thought (or Two)

J

IN THIS ISSUE

BY RICK WINTERSON

ust over two thousand years ago, Jesus Christ was born. We now celebrate this event worldwide on December 25, which is essentially the winter solstice, the longest night of the year. We call this celebration Christmas.

Archeologists, theologians, and historians have devoted lifetimes of study to Christmas and the Coming, but it still remains a mystery. We know only when the Birth took place (and we don’t even know that exactly). We know it took place in Judea, probably in Bethlehem – the House of Bread – fulfilling the prophecy of Micah. Bethlehem is near Jerusalem, which in those days was a sort of crossroads of the known world, between the East and the West.

The actual Christmas event is described only in the Gospels of Luke and Matthew. Each of those two Gospels tells different stories, which complement each other. From these Gospels come many traditions, such as the visit of the Magi, who brought gifts. We bring Christmas gifts of our own two thousand years later. We don’t forget Christmas.

The first Christmas was really quite a hum-

“Christmas is a season for kindling the fire for hospitality in the hall, the genial flame of charity in the heart.”

(Washington Irving) Christmas Quotes page 4 ble affair. It took place in a stable, which at least was warm from the animals kept there. The Babe was placed in a feeding trough, which we call a manger, and “wrapped in swaddling clothes” (read “diapers”).

Shepherds came to visit. These days, we look at shepherds tending their lambs in a kind of romantic way. Back then, sheep herding was considered a distinctly unclean, lower class occupation, yet the angels on high appeared to them and specifically invited them to take part in the

ST. PETER ACADEMY

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To Our Amazing Friends and Neighbors In the South Boston Community: We Wish You A Very Merry Holiday Season, And A Healthy,

Local and strong for over 75 years.

Happy New Year!

147 West 4th Street, South Boston

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massbaycu.org

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(617) 269-2700

Federally insured

by NCUA

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A Christmas Thought CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

first Christmas.

But in order to rediscover the meaning of Christmas in this hectic, materialistic day and age, we perhaps should jump ahead to Christ’s later life, during which he spent much of his time among the poor. We can find the Christmas message in other, more modern places as well – in Dickens’s “A Christmas Carol”, where Scrooge converts into a charitable man – “… and it was said that none could keep Christmas better than Ebenezer Scrooge.”

Consistently, Jesus Christ as an adult spoke of his regard for the unfortunates among us, and charged his listeners to care for them – “Whatever you have done for the least of My brethren, you have also done unto Me.” In the Beatitudes from His Sermon on the Mount, He counseled us to “visit the sick”, “feed the hungry”, “comfort those who suffer”, and, well, even 2,000 years later, all of us really know what we must do.

Have we examples today of Christ-like behavior we can emulate at Christmas? Yes, we do, and here’s just one of them. South Boston Online suggests that we listen carefully to what Pope Francis I has to say about the world’s condition in 2013. His message about caring for others is clear. We don’t think that his choice of the name “Francis”, the patron saint of the poor, is any kind of coincidence.

There’s even a connection between St. Francis and Christmas.

St. Francis was the first person to set up a Christmas stable scene that actually used live animals, hence his being named the patron saint of animals.

Please enjoy Christmas.

Make it into a Joyful Season.

Make it last for more than just one day. Make it special for your Loved Ones. And then, in some way that you choose, make it special for someone else who needs your kindness.

And please continue your concern for others into a Very Happy New Year in 2014.

The A and Summer St Bridge Lit for Solstice

The 2013 Winter Solstice was last Saturday, December 21, at 12:11 p.m. to be precise. The sun then set at 4:15 p.m. That day had a Scrooge-like nine hours and five minutes of daylight. The other 14 hours and 55 minutes were (you guessed it) North Temperate Zone dark.

Except for the underside of the Summer Street Bridge that goes over A Street.

Dan and Lisa Van Ackere, enthusiastically supported by their son Julian, had arranged and reconnected the LED light display across the underside of the Summer Street, where said bridge crosses over A Street. They switched it on at 5 p.m. last Saturday, just as the last of the twilight faded out over the

BY RICK WINTERSON

Fort5 Point Channel.

Their LED display is a cheerful array of lights that swim and wave and oscillate continuously.

It’s worth a short detour (or even a long one) down Melcher Street from Summer, or along A Street heading north toward Congress, to see the display.

But remember, it’s timed to come on only after dark.

The lighting up was applauded by a cheerful crowd of Fort Point residents, who gathered in the birch-treeand-granite-block mini-park at the bridge. The Van Ackeres themselves are residents of Fort Point and are active in the Fort Point Theatre Channel, with particular talents in (you guessed it again) stage lighting.

Msgr. Thomas J McDonnell and Frank Kelley Christmas Dinner St. Monica’s Hall (corner of Old Colony Ave. and Prebble St.)

2013 CHRISTMAS MASS SCHEDULE ST. BRIGID, GATE OF HEAVEN AND ST. MONICA-ST. AUGUSTINE CHRISTMAS EVE, TUESDAY, DECEMBER 24TH 4:00 PM at St. Augustine Chapel 4:00 PM at Gate of Heaven (with Christmas Pageant) 4:00 PM at St. Brigid Church 6:00 PM at St. Brigid (with Christmas Pageant) 10:00 PM at Gate of Heaven Church CHRISTMAS DAY WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 25TH 8:00 AM at St. Brigid Church 9:00 AM at Gate of Heaven Church 9:30 AM at St. Monica Church 10:30 AM at St. Brigid Church

CHRISTMAS DAY 11:00AM-1:00PM All are welcome.

If you are unable to get out and would like a meal delivered to your home please call 617-590-9922.

After Monday December 23rd please call 617-590-9922 Hosted by: The South Boston Catholic Parishes and the Elected Officials

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Our Christmas Tree Ritual

BY KEVIN DEVLIN

I always knew when it was time to go out and buy our family Christmas tree, the one that would play a special part in our lives over the holiday season, when I saw the red and green tree holder lying on the parlor floor. My father, along with my brothers and I, would walk up to Dorchester Avenue to purchase that perfect tree.

In the sixties and seventies, up and down the avenue, there were always empty lots that were seemingly transformed, in seconds, into temporary open-air Christmas tree outlets. My father would take his time and proudly choose what he considered, a flawless, symmetrically shaped, wholesome holiday tree.

My father would let my brothers and I, help him decorate the tree, but he made sure we all clearly understood that this was his project, and we would follow his lead and instructions throughout the entire operation.

The lights and ornaments were stored away down the cellar, and would be cautiously brought up into the living room, and placed carefully on the couch.

The ornaments, preciously maintained for years, were all individually and carefully wrapped in old newspaper and tissue, to safeguard them against being broken.

The lights would be the first to be strung up on the tree. Six, eight and sometimes as many as ten sets of lights would be put on the tree. He would start from the bottom, and go up and around the branches of the tree to the top. My father would then check each individual light and make sure every light was tightly in the socket, and in good working order. He would then replace whatever bulbs necessary.

Blue, red, green, white, yellow, and orange lights were now in place, and would eventually light up the tree like fireworks on the Fourth of July. Next came the ornaments. Beautiful, bright and shiny ornaments depicting the glory, excitement, and enthusiasm of the Christmas celebration.

Each ornament was carefully selected and hung in its designated area. Each ornament complemented the other, like the musical sounds of instruments in a symphony orchestra; and would magnify the tree light effect through their brilliant and distinct reflections.

The garland, along with the glittering, silver tinsel, would then be placed on the branches of the tree. This was my

favorite part of the entire undertaking.

Shining brightly, the stringy tinsel would hang down from the branches like chilling icicles, visibly and strikingly pointing downward from the rooftops on a frigid, wintry day.

The final phase, the piece de resistance, was to place the beautiful, snow-white angel on top of the tree. She was an Angel of God overlooking the safety and security of the family during this season of peace, love and giving.

After spending the better part of the day slowly and painstakingly piecing together (with our limited assistance) his masterpiece, our Dad would sternly warn us not to touch or go too close to the tree, lest we cause a disturbance that would alter the delicate balance of the finished product.

So, with his tree complete and his message conveyed, we would have our own tree lighting ceremony.

And without failure, throughout those (now) cherished years, we would all simultaneously nod in silent, happy recognition, that Dad had indeed again captured the essence of the holiday, and produced yet another glorious and stunning Christmas tree.

Surprises (was it a miracle?) no matter how small are still wondrous:

This Christmas story first appeared in SBOL in December 1998.

Then, a week later on Christmas Eve, as customary, my family went to my brother Pat’s house in Dorchester to celebrate the Yuletide. I was so proud of my Christmas story that I had copies laminated for my four brothers, Jackie, Pat, Jimmy, and my Buddy.

As I handed my brother a copy of this story he simultaneously gave me an artist’s rendition (by Savin Hill’s own Jimmy Hobin) of a man (our Dad) decorating a Christmas tree.

Unbeknownst to me, while I was writing my story, Jimmy had contacted Hobin to draw the picture. Jimmy and I stood in the kitchen in utter amazement of what we did, since we hadn’t previously conferred about our individual endeavors.

It was a moment frozen in time for us, as we could only wonder that Mom and Dad were looking down from Heaven, sharing this wondrous experience, and reminding us of our joyous past. Yes, telling us to take a brief moment to remember, embrace, and cherish the past, as we celebrate each and every new Christmas holiday.

Coincidences are nice. Surprises welcomed, and miracles unfathomable...

Merry Christmas Everyone

December 24, 2013

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December 24, 2013

Merry Christmas Everyone!

BY KEVIN DEVLIN “Peace on earth will come to stay, when we live Christmas every day” (--Helen Rice)

Christmas time is when we come together to celebrate our faith and to give thanks for our family and friends. It is a time of rejoicing and a time to reflect on our fortunes in life. In the spirit of goodwill to man and for the hope of peace on earth, we at SBOL would like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas.

Here are some famous Christmas quotes for all of us to reflect upon as we celebrate this wondrous day: “Christmas is not a time or a season but a state of mind. To cherish peace and good will, to be plenteous in mercy, is to have the real spirit of Christmas. If we think of these things, there

will be born in us a Savior and over us will shine a star sending its gleam of hope to the world.”

(--Calvin Coolidge )

“It is Christmas in the heart that puts Christmas in the air.”

(--W. T. Ellis)

“Christmas is most truly Christmas when we celebrate it by giving the light of love to those who need it the most.”

(--Ruth Carter Stapleton)

“On Christmas, we celebrate the birth of Christ with prayer, feasting, and great merriment. But, most of all, we experience it in our hearts. For, more than just a day, Christmas is a state of mind.”

(--Ronald Reagan) “The best of all gifts around any Christmas tree is the presence of a happy family all wrapped up in each other.”

(--Burton Hills) “I have always thought of Christmas as a good time, a kind, for-

giving, generous, pleasant time; a time when men and women seem to open their hearts freely, and so I say, God Bless Christmas!”

(--Charles Dickens) “Christmas is the season for kindling the fire of hospitality in the hall, the genial flame of charity in the heart.”

(--Washington Irving)

“The joy of brightening other lives, bearing each other’s burdens, easing other’s loads and supplanting empty hearts and lives with generous gifts becomes for us the magic of Christmas.

(--W.C. Jones)

“It is the day we remind ourselves that men can and must live in peace with his neighbors and that it is the peacemakers who are truly blessed.”

(--John F. Kennedy)

“Christmas-that magic blanket that wraps itself about us, that something so intangible that it

is like a fragrance. It may weave a spell of nostalgia. Christmas may be a day of feasting, or of prayer, but always it will be a day of remembrance-a day in which we think of everything we have ever loved.”

(--Augusta E. Rundel)

“Christmas, my child, is love in action. Every time we love, every time we give, it’s Christmas.”

(--Dale Evans Rogers)

“It is Christmas every time you let God love others through you…yes, it is Christmas every time you smile at your brother and offer him your hand.”

(--Mother Teresa)

“Christmas Eve was a night of song that wrapped itself about you like a shawl. But it warmed more than your body. It warmed your heart…filled it, too, with melody that would last forever.”

(--Bess Steeter Aldrich)

About the Thirteenth

Annual New Year Day’s Swim to benefit the Scleroderma Foundation featuring the 103rd Postal Fire Column Pipes & Drums Meet at Woody’s “L” Street Tavern @8am Step off to the swim at 9am SHARP Post Swim Reception at Woody’s “L” Street Tavern at 8am ~ Raffles - 50/50 Drawing All proceeds will benefit the Scleroderma Foundaiton

If unable to attend, donations gratefully accepted, Please mail to: Scleroderma Polar Swim c/o Kevin Conroy 169 West Eight Street South Boston, MA 02127

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December 24, 2013

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George’s Friendly Reminder

Christmas Schedule Tuesday, December 24 (Christmas Eve): 4 p.m. – Vigil Mass at St. Augustine Chapel 4 p.m. – Christmas Pageant Mass at Gate of Heaven 6 p.m. – Christmas Pageant Mass at St. Brigid 7 p.m. – Procession of Lights at the Fourth Presbyterian 7 p.m. - Mass at St. Peter 10 p.m. – Mass at Gate of Heaven 11 p.m. – Mass at St. Peter’s Wednesday, December 25 (Christmas Day): 8 and 10:30 a.m. – Mass at St. Brigid 9 and 11 a.m. – Mass at St. Peter 9 a.m. – Mass at Gate of Heaven 9:30 a.m. – Mass at St. Monica PLAN TO ATTEND OR VOLUNTEER: 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. – Christmas Dinner (open to all), St. Monica.

FIRST NIGHT CELEBRATION ON DECEMBER 31 – ALL OVER BOSTON (Check the newspapers or Google) And don’t forget to reserve Wednesday, January 1 (New Year’s Day) to attend/take part in the Polar Plunge – 8 a.m. maeet at the L Street Tavern; 9:30 a.m. for the Plunge at Curley Community Center.

Funds will be raised for Scleroderma Research also.

George LoCascio is ready to start preparations for the bounteous Christmas feast in St. Monica Church Hall tomorrow (Wednesday, December 25, Christmas Day). Everyone is welcome to attend, from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. If you find it difficult to attend, please call 617-5909922 for a delivered dinner.

In addition to George, there are many other volunteers who make this celebration possi-

ble –good-hearted souls who are too numerous to list. This event is hosted by the Catholic Parishes of South Boston and our elected officials. The Christmas Dinner continues the 30-year tradition of the St. Augustine Food Pantry, founded by Msgr. Thomas McDonnell, Frank Kelley, and their loyal band of Merry Men and Women – all carried out in the Spirit of the Gospel of St. Luke, the “Hospitality Gospel”.

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December 24, 2013

Elegant Christmas Shopping at Lincoln

BY RICK WINTERSON

Last Monday evening, Lincoln on West Broadway hosted a gala shopping event.

Six of South Boston’s most tasteful and fashionable shops took part: Ku De Ta, Habit, The Closet Connection, Pretty Reckless, Covet, and Neatly Nested. Lincoln’s open section at the rear of their building was filled with displays and shoppers, many of whom took the time to sample Lincoln’s refreshments.

As you might have expected, much of the display space was devoted to women’s clothing and accessories. These displays were nothing short of eye-catching. But that wasn’t all.

Neatly Nested featured its own tasteful furnishings for your personal living space, along with brightly colored mosaics created by Jessica Gusar.

In addition to the high quality of the displays at this event, two other trends were especially obvious – the gradual evolution of South Boston into a destination for varied, upscale shopping experiences, and the growth of the “consignment shop phenomenon”. South Boston Online has always advised you to patronize South Boston establishments.

Prove it to yourself – do a little window shopping. The first three of the shops listed above are on East Broadway from H to K Street; the other three are located along Broadway from Perkins Square to E Street. Now, how convenient is that?

And as tip for the future, if you are planning any kind of event that needs a lot of space in a local, popular establishment, check out the huge gathering space to the rear of Lincoln.

Heather and Emily proudly represent Ku De Ta at Lincoln’s Christmas shopping event.

Pretty Reckless, a Perkins Square boutique, with Jamie Sparks (co-owner), Jill, and Leslie.

May the peace of God be in your hearts always

MERRY CHRISTMAS

Hanadi Hamzeh, Covet’s owner, is an elegant presence at Lincoln’s shopping event.

&

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Danielle Platzer (r.) features Jessica Gusar’s “Live in Mosaics” at the Neatly Nested table.

Nick Collins State Representative Robin and Sarah at the Closet Connection display at Lincoln’s shopping event.

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December 24, 2013

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Linehan Holiday Party Frog Pond Skating Rink Open

It was a warm and festive occasion – City Councilor Bill Linehan’s celebration of the Season, his re-election, and all his supporters. The back section of Lincoln was f overflowing as Bill expressed his gratitude to his many constituents and wished them a Merry Christmas.

Last Wednesday evening, Lincoln was more than usually thronged with patrons. The occasion was a party – an outright celebration, if you wish – thrown by District Two’s recently re-elected City Councilor Bill Linehan.

No count could be made, but there were hundreds of Bill’s well-wishers on hand. They turned out despite the cold and the lingering effects of the mid-week storm. It was a joyful, shoulder-to-shoulder crowd that filled Lincoln’s open back section.

City Council President Steve Murphy emceed the brief program. He recognized City Councilor-at-Large (elect) Michelle Wu, and then introduced District Two City Councilor Bill Linehan. Bill had bested Suzanne Lee in the November elections, 53% to

BY RICK WINTERSON

47%; his speech was brief. He thanked all of those who had voted for him, especially those who had also worked on his campaign. Bill congratulated Michael Flaherty on his election to the Council, and specifically mentioned Michelle Wu, who has said she will support Linehan for City Council President in 2014.

A few words about Wu: She has stood up for her choice of Linehan as Council President in no uncertain terms. To use her words, she thinks he’ll provide the experience in Boston’s governance needed to be an effective Council President. Just as important, she supports Bill’s intention, if he’s elected as Council President in January, to delegate more responsibility to individual Councilors. But criticisms of her stance from so-called “Progressives” has been withering.

To paraphrase a cliché, “Hell hath no fury like Progressives who don’t get their way, and thus feel scorned.”

Bill closed his remarks with heartfelt wishes to everyone for a Merry Christmas, a joyful Holiday Season, and a Happy New Year.

And then the party resumed.

The Skating Club of Boston manages and operates the Boston Common Frog Pond.

The Frog Pond features public skating, lessons, rentals, Frog Pond Café, and a warming area.

Frog Pond hours of operation are Sunday to Thursday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. (except Monday when the rink closes at 4 p.m.), Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., closed Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day, Christmas Eve 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., New Year’s Eve 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and New Year’s Day 12 noon to 5 p.m.

Admission fees are $5 for ages 14 and over and free for ages 13 and under. Skate rentals are $5 for children 13 and under, $9 for 14 and over, and lockers are available for $2.

Individual season passes are available for $150, family passes with children ages 13 and under are $250, and lunchtime season passes good Monday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. (holidays excluded), are available for $100. The Skating

HAPPY HOLIDAYS

TO ALL OUR FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS FROM

Dorgan’s Package Store Come by and check out our

HOLIDAY SPECIALS Now through New Year’s Eve!

664 East Broadway - 617-307-6307

Club of Boston at Frog Pond will be offering passes valid for skating at Frog Pond in the winter months and at The Skating Club of Boston’s indoor facility during the months when Frog Pond skating is closed.

The Skating Club of Boston Skating Academy offers group lessons every Saturday and Sunday from 8:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. and Mondays from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. Private lessons for skaters of all ages and levels, including special needs skaters, are also available through their expanded private lesson program.

For up-to-date schedules, events, programs, offerings and general and weather-related updates please call the Frog Pond at (617) 635-2120 or visitwww. bostonfrogpond.com. For Boston Common parking information go to www.massconvention. com/bcg.html.

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December 24, 2013

America’s Favorite Cookies are Back!

Girl Scout Cookies, on Sale Through March 4, Help Girls Learn 5 Important Skills While Raising Funds for Leadership Activities

Girl Scouts of Eastern Mass. of- and help girls have fun, develop fers First-Ever Gluten Free Girl valuable life skills and make their communities a better place. Each Scout Cookie

Girl Scouts of Eastern Massachusetts is excited to bring back America’s favorite cookies, and to introduce two new flavors, including one that is gluten-free. Each year Girl Scouts cookies are offered in eight delicious flavors, and are sold for a limited time. Beginning December 13, customers can purchase Thin Mints, Caramel deLites, Peanut Butter Patties, Shortbreads, Thanks-A-Lots, Lemonades, Peanut Butter Sandwiches or one of our two new cookies this year, Cranberry Citrus Crisp, and starting January 23 in limited supply, Gluten Free Chocolate Chip Shortbread. Be sure to stock up; they are only available until March 4, 2014.

Girl Scout Cookies are an icon of American culture. From their earliest beginnings to their current popularity, Girl Scout Cookies bring joy to customers

purchase means you get tasty cookies—and a girl learns a lifetime of skills, such as goal setting, decision making, money management, people skills and business ethics.

During the cookie sale, girls work towards a common goal as part of a team. The money earned from cookie sale activities helps the troop partake in service projects, go on field trips, purchase patches, attend summer camp and so much more. In addition, girls give back to others during the sale through the Cookies for a Cause program.

Girls sell boxes of cookies that are set aside to be donated to soldiers overseas or to a local food pantry.

Last year Girl Scouts of Eastern Massachusetts donated more than 35,000 packages. This especially meaningful element of the Girl Scout cookie program helps girls develop business ethics and a foundation for a lifetime

of community service.

“Buying Girl Scout cookies is more than just handing over money. It’s about helping girls develop the skills gained from interacting directly with you,” explains Barbara Fortier, Chief Operating Officer, Girl Scouts of Eastern Massachusetts. “It’s about the experience of running a business and working with others. It’s the reason

we don’t sell cookies online. And it’s why we encourage you to buy your cookies from a Girl Scout— the cookie professional,” said Fortier.

Girl Scout cookies are $4 a package, Gluten Free are $5 a pouch. To find out where to buy cookies in your area visit www.hergirlscouts.org, click on the “cookie locator” and enter your zip code.

Happy holidays!

From our house to yours.

JAMES E. ROONEY EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

/MassConvention @MassConvention massconvention.com

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December 24, 2013

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2013 Christmas Stroll: SB at Its Holiday Best

Note the icicles hang off a chocolate candy roof.

BillyBob and Glenn (“The Wonder Twins”) judge the gingerbread houses.

Ribbon candy roofing and chocolate walkway tiles – Yum!

Do you suppose Social Wines put a wine cellar in their gingerbread house?

Joe Kebartas couldn’t get his gingerbread house to stick together.

Fresh as a Daisy Naturals Boutique Connie Baldner (Owner) Accessories Store - Home Decor - Gift Shop

Free delivery in the Metro-Boston area or pick-up at our boutique.

Like us on facebook! : www.facebook.com/FAADNaturalsBoutique www.freshasadaisynaturals.com 29 Farragut Road - South Boston, MA - 617-894-1733 - freshasadaisy@verizon.net

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10 December 24, 2013

2013 Christmas Stroll: Pop-up Art Gallery

Norm Crump’s oil landscapes are featured at 666 East Broadway.

Small inexpensive-but-unique originals at the Misty spring views along the South Boston shores pop-up gallery in #666.

by Norm Crump.

Ted Baker (London) is a dab hand at hand-drawn Deb Putnam, South Boston’s “American Realist”, Young at Heart” images – photography by Julie SB Online NYE half pg ad:Layout 1 12/16/13 8:57 AM Page 1 prints. exhibits in the pop-up gallery Young at the pop-up gallery.

Stephi’s in Southie

Spend New Year’s Eve With Us. DJ spinning at 10pm.

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Full menu available.

Three-course fixed price menu with premium wine pairings. $65.00 per person, all inclusive.

Signature cocktails & New Year's Eve special at bar.

Half bottle of Veuve Clicquot and six oysters OR six Miller High Life Beers and six oysters $40.00 each.

Serving New Year’s Day Brunch with our famous Bloody Marys, 10am - 3pm.

617-345-5495 LUNCH

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DINNER

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WEEKEND BRUNCH

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www.stephisinsouthie.com

FIRESIDE DINING

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BAR

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WINE BAR

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L AT E N I G H T D I N I N G

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December 24, 2013

2013 Christmas Stroll: Merchants

Calnan’s is chock full of Christmas offerings (and Joe is doing very well).

An especially elegant storefront on East Broadway.

The interior of B.Y.O.D. has lots of pet gifts.

Ianni is your friendly maître d’ at Stapleton Florists.

Café Porto Bello 672 East Broadway South Boston • 617.269.7680 6 North Washington Street North Attleboro • 508.699.0006

Party Platters Appetizers

Full Tray

Half Tray

Stuffed mushrooms Stuffed peppers Stuffed clams casino

$30.00 $30.00 $60.00

$18.00 $18.00 $35.00

$35.00 $25.00 $45.00

N/A N/A N/A

$25.00 $45.00 $45.00 $50.00 $60.00

$15.00 $25.00 $25.00 $30.00 $40.00

$50.00 $55.00 $75.00

$30.00 $35.00 $50.00

$65.00 $60.00 $40.00 $50.00 $60.00 $70.00 $60.00 $70.00 $75.00 $25.00

$40.00 $35.00 $25.00 $30.00 $40.00 $45.00 $40.00 $40.00 $50.00 $15.00

Salads Caesar salad Tossed salad (house dressing) Antipasto

Pasta Metro Energy always has a beautiful window display.

Rigatoni marinara Gnocchi marinara Ravioli marinara Ravioli pesto cream sauce Lobster ravioli in Amaretto cream sauce

Lasagna Cheese Vegetable Meat

Entrees Eggplant rollatini Eggplant parmigiana Sausage, potatoes, peppers & onions Chicken, broccoli & ziti Chicken parmigiana Chicken marsala Chicken cacciatore Chicken carciofi Chicken bracciolettini Meatballs & sausage

Call to order your Holiday Platters!

Half tray serves approximately 10 • Full tray serves approximately 20

Claire Ann outdid herself this year, with her florist shop’s decorations.

www.cafeportobelloonline.com

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Merry Christmas from St. Peter Academy Thanks in part to a grant from the South Boston Neighborhood Development Corporation, St. Peter Academy students presented their annual Christmas Extravaganza at the SB Lithuanian Club on Friday, December 20th. The teachers prepared the children well for this show and it was apparent as the classes performed various Christmas songs to celebrate the holiday season.

The opening of the show

PreK-A sings Frosty

Grades 2-5 perform “Here We Go”

Sleigh Ride with Grades 6,7 & 8

K1 is “Rockin around the Christmas Tree”

K2 & Grade 1 are “Makin Christmas Cookies”

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December 24, 2013

K1 children are Santa’s elves

Rudolph is in the house!

Santa Claus Rock

IN SOUTHIE

PreK-B Gingerbread Children

Christmas Animals

CELEBRATING

years

15

617-269-7878 • 118 Dorchester Street, South Boston www.salsasmexican.com

FREE APPETIZERS During NFL Games (one per table)

$8 Enchiladas Thursday

$5

$2 Tacos

Burritos Wednesday

Tuesday

7 DAYS A WEEK

Open for Lunch & Dinner

$19 Margarita Pitcher Special

DINE IN ONLY

CELEBRATING

15

IN SOUTHIE

years

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617-269-7878 • 1 ww

FREE APPETIZERS

During NFL Games

(one per table)

$8

Enchiladas Thursday

Our Littlest Angels and shepherds

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14 December 24, 2013

Meet Logan Crowley

BY KEVIN DEVLIN

Youngster loves baseball and basketball

He’s a polite, young boy with a warm smile. He likes playing basketball but he really loves the game of baseball. His name is Logan Crowley.

Logan, nicknamed “Logan Airport” by friends, is the son of William and Robin Crowley. He has two sisters, Molly and Courtney, as well as two brothers, Corey and Jake. Logan’s family also has a dog named Brice, a German shepherd they all love.

Logan, 11, is in the sixth grade at the Joshua Quincy Upper Academy which is located in Chinatown. His favorite class is physical education, he’s an Honor

Roll caliber student, and someday hopes to be a professional baseball player. His favorite professional player is Red Sox star, Dustin Pedroia. His favorite color is blue and his favorite food is pizza.

In his leisure time, Logan enjoys, “playing video games, hanging out with his friends, and reading.” The last book he read was one of the “Goosebumps” books written by R.L. Stine In the world of sports Logan is a two-sport kind of kid. He plays baseball and hoop.

Logan started playing baseball in the t-ball league and is currently on the Seattle Mariners in the South Boston Little League. He pitches and plays shortstop. As a minor league player, he registered a no-hitter and was twice chosen as an “MVP.” In 2012, his Little League team, the Mariners, managed by Kevin Dwyer and his dad, captured the Southie Little League World Series Championship.

“I really love playing baseball,” he said. “I like pitching and love it when I hit the ball far for a home run. It’s a lot of fun.”

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Logan started playing hoop in the Gate of Heaven CYO program two seasons ago and plays on house and travel teams. He enjoys dribbling and shooting the ball.

He’s also a strong defensive player.

Logan wishes everyone a Merry Christmas and hopes Santa brings him his Lebron James sneakers and a pair of knee pads to protect his bruised knees.

His mom and dad are proud of him. And they should be.

“He’s a good student,” his dad said.

“He’s learning to adjust to a new school and is just missing Honor Roll.

“Logan is an All-Star in baseball and basketball,” his dad added. “He plays AAU baseball as a second baseman and shortstop.

He plays travel baseball for Southie and loves to pitch or catch. Logan is always trying to help his teammates and stays after the games to show them the right way.”

A Long Distance Christmas Card

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Customer purchases checks. We reserve the right to substitute an item of similar value. In the event the value of the free gift exceeds $10, the bank is required to report the gift on Form 1099-INT. The recipient is responsible for all applicable taxes.

South Boston Online gets many Christmas greetings from many different places. This year’s long distance prize goes to our annual correspondent, Frank Lombard, who sent us greetings from Bangkok, Thailand. That’s a distance (as the crow flies) of 8,600 nautical miles, or 9,500 land miles.

WWW.SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM

You’ve Got a Gripe?

BY KEVIN DEVLIN

One resident feels we need increased MBTA bus service.

Now it’s our reader’s turn to share their concerns, their gripes that they’d like to see addressed or aired in some manner or fashion.

Recently, a reader emailed SBOL noting he felt MBTA bus service in South Boston was slow, as well as inadequate, based on new development and the concomitant increase of customers using bus service to and from downtown.

The reader felt increased bus service was necessary during rush hours, especially for bus route #7.

I contacted the T and was informed that they are currently reviewing bus routes throughout the state with the intent to increase arrival times at all bus locations. However, the T staff person said she was unaware of

anything on the table about increasing bus service in Southie.

Like elephants, all public bureaucracies move slowly.

Their only eyes would be their bus drivers, but perhaps the bus drivers are mum on the subject, or the T is turning a blind eye.

My suggestion is to call the T’s customer service phone number at 617-222-5000 and lodge your gripe if you feel increased bus routes, especially during rush hour times, would greatly facilitate local public transportation needs. Then the T would be aware of this issue and perhaps do something about it.

The T has also been invited to the planned January 27th at the Tynan School at 6:30 p.m., meeting regarding parking problems.

Contact us so we can share your gripes with our readers. (mail@southbostononline. com or kdevlin444@gmail. com)

December 24, 2013

15

Holiday Health and Safety Tips Christmas Trees · Make sure your artificial tree has a “fire resistant” label. · Ensure your live Christmas tree is fresh and naturally fire-retardant. Look for sticky resin on the trunk butt and needles that are green and stay on the tree when it is shaken. Make a fresh cut on the trunk for better water absorption. · Place the tree away from fireplaces, portable heaters, and other heat sources. · Keep the stand filled with water because heated rooms can dry live trees rapidly.

Holiday Lighting · Never use electric lights on a metallic tree. · Before using lights outdoors, check labels to make sure they have been certified for outdoor use. Use hooks or insulated staples (not nails or tacks) to hold lights in place and never pull or tug lights to remove them. · Check decorative lights (even if they’re new) for frayed wires,

broken sockets or loose connections before hanging them. · Plug all outdoor electric decorations into circuits with ground fault circuit interrupters to avoid potential shocks. · Inspect ladders for loose or missing screws, hinges, bolts and nuts. · Ladders should be non-metal if used around electricity and should extend at least three feet past the edge of the roof. Avoid working alone when using ladders and working off the ground. · Turn off all lights when you go to bed or leave the house. · Keep candles away from decorations, curtains and drapes or other combustibles. Never display lighted candles in windows or near exits and never use lit candles as tree decorations or near cut greenery. · Always keep candles, matches and lighters out of the reach of children and do not leave children unattended in a room with lit candles.

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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

16 December 24, 2013

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Christmas Jam-Jams

Prep time: 45 min - Bake time: 6 min

BY LAUREN VAUGHN

Sometimes called Thumbprint cookies (named for the way the baker presses their thumb into the cookie and fills them with jam once cooled), Jam-Jams have a similar taste but are sandwiched together with a jam filling. Although they can be a little time consuming to make, it’s a great way to use up the home-made jam so many of my relatives send my family during the holiday season. You can, of course, use store-bought jam and the end result will be just as delicious!

The cookie itself is a cross between a sugar cookie but is flakey like a shortbread. The taste of the cookie is light and sweet. I chose to use vanilla extract with a strawberry jam filling, but you can do any number of combinations such as anise or orange or even add some cocoa!

Alright, time to get started! These are the ingredients you will need (as well as cookie cutters of your choice, parchment paper, and two cookie sheets): 3 cups flour 1 and 1/4 teaspoons baking powder

3/4 teaspoon salt 1 and 1/2 cups sugar 3/4 cup butter or margarine, softened 2 eggs 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Strawberry or any jam of your choice

This batch should make 20-25 cookies, depending on how thin you roll your dough. Remember, we will be sandwiching the halves together so it might feel like you’re making a lot more!

Okay, first things first: pre-heat your oven to 375 degrees. While your oven is preheating beat the softened butter and sugar in a bowl until it is mostly light and fluffy—this will impact the overall texture and flakiness of your cookie so make sure not to overbeat! Then, mix in the eggs and vanilla until they are well-blended. After that, beat the flower into the mixture little by little. Finally for the dough, divide it in half so that you will have enough dough for the top and bottoms of your cookies.

Spread out two pieces of parchment paper with a little bit of flour, and roll both halves of the dough to about 1/8 of an inch (make sure your parchment paper is on top of a cookie sheet).

Then pop the raw dough and cookie sheets into the freezer for about 15 minutes. You can repeat the step if the dough becomes too sticky.

Time to take the dough out of the freezer and get out our cookie cutters! I used a star and a round cutter for the center hole on the tops, and just the star for the bottom. You want your tops and bottoms to match. However, make sure to only pop out the centers of half of your cookies!

That way when you sandwich the two halves together the jam will show through on the top but be kept in by a solid cookie on the bottom.

Bake these for 6-8 minutes or until slightly golden on the edges. Wait for them to cool completely and then put about a half a teaspoon of jam in the center of each bottom cookie half. Then sandwich on the top halves with the cut-out centers and enjoy!

First Night Button Holders Get Chance to See U.S. Figure Skating Team

Button Holders Offered buy one-get one free deal for 2014 Prudential U.S. Championships

This January, Boston will be the site of the biggest event in U.S. figure skating, when it welcomes the 2014 Prudential U.S. Championships, hosted by The Skating Club of Boston.

As the last qualifying competition prior to the selection of the 2014 U.S. Olympic Figure Skating Team, the Championships will feature the nation’s top figure skaters and offer a preview of Olympic stars who will compete on Team USA in Sochi, Russia this February.

The Skating Club of Boston is offering individuals with First Night buttons one free ticket for every ticket purchased for the Opening Ceremonies/Championship Ladies Short Program event at TD Garden (upper deck) on Thursday, January 9, 2014 at 7 p.m.

Several members of The Skating Club of Boston, including Olympic hopefuls and last year’s U.S. pairs champions, will be appearing at the Frog Pond during the annual First Night Skating Spectacular on December 31.

Attendees should present First Night buttons at the TD Garden box office, or use the assigned code FIRSTNIGHT online at ticketmaster.com. The U.S. Championships were last

held in Boston in 2001 and broke all attendance records. For more information on the 2014 Championships, visitboston2014.com

First Night Boston Buttons are $10 (children under 4 admitted free) and are available at participating Boston-area CVS Stores, Bank of America branches, BosTix booths, Greater Boston Convention and Visitors Bureau information centers and other locations throughout the city.

For a complete list of advance sale locations or to buy buttons online, visit www.firstnightboston.org. In addition to the outstanding performing arts schedule, additional button benefits will be announced daily on Twitter, via @FirstNight, #ButtonBenefit.

Please check www.firstnightboston.org for the latest details and additional information.

WWW.SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM

17

December 24, 2013

REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS BUYER 1

SELLER 1

SELLER 2

ADDRESS

CITY

ZIP

PRICE

DATE

Goldberg, Theodore I

Jrc FT

Cassino, Judith A

259 Emerson St

South Boston

02127

$575,000

12/03/13

289 West 5th Street LLC

Gately, William

Gately, William J

289 W 5th St

South Boston

02127

$850,000

12/03/13

KL 2 LLC

413 E 7th St

South Boston

02127

$580,000

12/06/13

Quaranto, Caitlin

Skahan, Susan A

311 Emerson St #7

South Boston

02127

$355,000

12/02/13

Mancini, Garrett J

Dunn, Melissa A

433 W 4th St #2

South Boston

02127

$425,000

12/02/13

Devlin, Colleen S

Sullivan, Meghan

Powers, Ryan

637 E 7th St #2

South Boston

02127

$423,000

12/06/13

Allen, Philip S

Pirrotta, Alexander

Perkins, Laura

111 W 8th St #A

South Boston

02127

$361,000

12/06/13

Vietry, Samantha

Fogarty, Mathew J

Fogarty, Susan S

180 L St #1

South Boston

02127

$435,000

12/06/13

Lefkowitz, Lauren

Maggs, Charles A

9 W Broadway #219

South Boston

02127

$462,500

12/06/13

Teeden, John A

Sullivan, Megan

58 L St #1

South Boston

02127

$460,000

12/02/13

Zhang, Han

Manning, Tim

335 W 2nd St #7

South Boston

02127

$485,000

12/02/13

Zaidner, Eduardo Y

Pacheco, Jeff

291 W 3rd St #3

South Boston

02127

$309,000

12/03/13

Flaherty, Brian

Flaherty, Ann

33 Rosemont St #3

Dorchester

02122

$270,000

12/06/13

Boyd, Paul

Boyd, Paul

47 Pearl St #1

Dorchester

02125

$9,011

12/02/13

Allen, Lindsay L

Cohen, David

514 E 3rd St #3

South Boston

02127

$410,000

12/04/13

Kauvar, Cheryl

Carney, Edward

770 E 4th St #3

South Boston

02127

$702,500

12/02/13

Maggs, Charles A

BUYER 2

Maggs, Amanda K

Sullivan, Joseph E

Brooks, Sean

Rooney Real Estate Looking to buy or sell your home?

Call today for a free market analysis 617.269.1000

18 December 24, 2013

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Christmas Remembrance Sean P. Gleeson

Christmas Remembrance Buddy Earner In memory of Buddy Earner, my husband of 56 years, who passed away on May 9, 2013. He was a loving husband and father to 6 wonderful children, adults now, they are happily married. We have 14 grandchildren, 2 great grandchildren and one great grandson that will come into this world in April of 2014. These are the gifts that he left behind for all to us to cherish.

We love and miss you more as each year passes.

You are always in our throughts and hearts.

We love you Nana, Sean P., Emily, Aunt Mim, Uncle Danny

So as this is the first Christmas that we will have to sadly get through, I want to wish my Buddy, a “Merry Christmas� in heaven! Your wife and family love and miss you.

You are and will be always be in our hearts, thoughts and prayers.

Honey, Buddy Jr., Diane, Susan, Mary, Kelly and Kim

Post Office Collecting Donations for the SB Neighborhood House The Letter Carriers, Clerks, and Management of the South Boston Post Office are collecting new hats, scarfs, gloves, and socks (for adults and children) for donation to the South Boston Neighborhood House. A donation box has been placed in the lobby of the Post OFfice at 444 East Third Street.

Merry Christmas

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December 24, 2013

19

y r r Me s a m t s i Chr

r a e Y w e N & Happy

Wishing all the best, from our family to yours!

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