THE PRINT EDITION
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2018
VOLUME XIX- ISSUE 74
New Northern Avenue Bridge Proposed by Rick Winterson
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t is common knowledge that the old Northern Avenue Bridge has been completely taken out of service, after it was closed for use by pedestrians and bicyclists to cross the Fort Point Channel. The bridge, which was the original structure, is simply too corroded by more than a century of exposure to the elements and to salt water, as well as being stressed and strained by constant daily use as a drawbridge. Actually, the term for this particular type of movable bridge is “swing bridge”, even though its human operator was called a Draw Tender. Currently, three other welltraveled bridges serve the very rapidly developing South Boston Seaport/Waterfront area – the Summer Street, the Congress Street, and the Evelyn Moakley
Seaport Boulevard Bridges. Restoring the Northern Avenue Bridge would open a fourth bridge that would be about 300 feet north of the 25-year-old Moakley Bridge, very near the end of the Fort Point Channel. A meeting at the end of November was held in the Seaport’s District Hall. An eight-member panel was on hand to “walk through” the numerous technical and public usage considerations involved with replacing the Northern Avenue Bridge in some way. There were three panelists from the City of Boston (engineers and the Chief of Streets), three consultants (engineers and an architect), and two from the so-ca lled Mayora l Advisor y Task Force. This latter group is 17-member cross section of the
Cops for Kids with Cancer
Cops for kids with Cancer stops by District C-11 in Dorchester to lift the spirits of a little girl battling cancer. Created in 2002, the Cops for Kids with Cancer charity has donated millions of dollars to help and support families with children battling cancer. Their most recent donation and act of kindness took place today, Friday, December 7, 2018, at District C-11 in Dorchester and - as you can see by the photos - our officers were honored and humbled to meet, greet and high-5 their newest hero: 3-yr-old Deena Thomas. For more information about this wonderful organization – please visit: copsforkidswithcancer.org.
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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2018 SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM
Continued from Page 1
Northern Ave. Bridge City of Boston, which has been meeting since May. Its specific aim is to advise the City on the preferred alternative to replacing the Northern Avenue Bridge. The initial project efforts involved brief ings with nine community organizations, as well as meetings with neighbors of the Northern Avenue Bridge and elected off icials. This preliminary work resulted in four, broad-but-key conceptual areas that formed the foundation and agenda of the November meeting. The meeting panel addressed all four of these concepts: strengthen Resiliency, honor History, improve Mobility, and create a Destination – the latter concept was also referred to as “Placemaking”. “Resiliency” is a word now in fashion. It means durability combined with f lexibility, and was made a topic because of the f looding that occurred during last January’s northeaster storms that f looded much of the Seaport. Basically, it means that any new bridge for Northern Avenue will have to be built higher, and will have to be protected against corrosion. “Histor y” mea ns bu i ld ing something that evokes the past. The remains of the old Northern Avenue Bridge a re visibly and massively corroded away. Furthermore, it was first built to serve Fan Pier, a rail freight yard now long gone. The only
The skeleton of the original Northern Avenue Drawbridge contrasts bleakly with Boston’s bright skyline. concession here to history would be limited to structural steel shaped like the original bridge. Mobilit y would be a n important feature of any new bridge. How much of the bridge’s traffic surface would be devoted to pedestrians and bicycles, and how much to cars and trucks. Remember that the Seaport, and indeed all of South Boston, is a peninsula (you must leave the same way you entered). Also, remember that there is an industrial area, a major port area, and the Innovation and Design Building far down this peninsula, with entirely different traffic patterns. Finally there is Destination/ Placemaking. One drawing of a so-called “Plus (+)” Bridge had a linear park at right angles
The Draw section of the Northern Avenue Bridge – a movable bridge more properly called a “swing bridge”.
to the new bridge itself. This was intended to be a walking park along the axis of Fort Point Channel over to the Moakley Bridge. Interesting yes, but should any new bridge over the Fort Point Channel be anything but an efficient means of crossing it? This led to other questions that occurred to Sout h Boston Online. This was really the first public meeting about t he proposal to replace the Northern Avenue Bridge. Basically, the new bridge will be another “connector” to the Financial District, Downtown Boston, and the North End. One question that occurred to us during the meeting – three bridges on Summer Street, Congress Street, and Seaport Boulevard already
exist - is a fourth really necessary? And where does a proposed new Northern Avenue Bridge sit in the City’s priorities? Clearly, money for expenditures is limited, so would a new bridge to Long Island come first? Should a new bridge be restricted to bicycles, pedestrians, and HOVs? A nd t here w a s t a l k (unconfirmed) about a problem wit h t he Evelyn Moa k ley Bridge, and the cracks that are appearing around the bridge’s base on the Seaport side of the span. What would it mean if that bridge needed extensive repairs and had to be shut down?? Much rema ins to be f igured out. South Boston Online will keep you posted.
Cracks and patching around the Moakley Bridge. Serious, longterm damage after 25 years? Or not?
SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2018
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Thinking and Praying for Young and Old Friends this Holiday Ray Flynn, Former Mayor of Boston and U.S. Ambassador to the Vatican We often hear it said that Christmas is the most wonderful time of the year. A season of joy and happiness when families might attend Mass, get together at one of their homes, exchange gifts, and maybe enjoy dinner together. And it’s certainly a special and fun time of the year for children. Many people however, can’t avoid thinking about relatives, friends and neighbors they might have lost through the years that they admired and loved. They may not dwell on it, but it’s certainly something they can’t stop thinking about. Oftentimes just saying a prayer for them is the best thing we can do for them. Sure, we think about an immediate family member all the time, but I even surprise myself sometimes when I come up with names of people I remember growing up with as a kid, going to
school with, or playing ball with. Maybe it’s because I loved playing sports so much as a kid, that I got to know so many people from different communities and backgrounds. When the Southie Boys Club was closed on a Sunday, I played on an all Jewish Settlement House team in Mattapan and even the only Caucasian player on an all Black traveling semi pro basketball team. I have so many fond memories of old friends, I think about them all the time. I’m sure we all have these same kinds of special feelings and memories. We all had thoughts of special people we admired through the years and Christmas is a great season to look back on them with fondness and say a little prayer for them. Today as I walked by the L Street Bathhouse, I thought of the Three Samaritans of Southie, Mike Beatty, John Walker and Ernie Santoro, who were killed by an automobile while trying to help a stranger whose car broke down on the Expressway.
Update – BPD Station Six by Rick Winterson At the November NAC (Neighborhood Advisory Council ) meeting, key arrests were announced by Capt. Boyle and his staff. One of these arrests had to do with the epidemic of auto larcenies in South Boston, which had been written up in South Boston Online’s November 15 issue. The other arrests were connected with the ongoing opioid/fentanyl crisis – a nationwide crisis that is especially bad in Massachusetts. Very high bail was set. The crime scene in South Boston has been becoming quieter, maybe due to colder weather and general vigilance. The celebrations over the Red Sox World Series Championship wins were law-abiding for the most part. Issues about traffic problems and potential danger to pedestrians were brought up. The Community Services officers at Station Six mentioned that they still have a supply of winter coats for needy children in various sizes. They asked that interested parties contact them at (617)343-4747 with any requests.
I just walked by the photo of young Colin McGrath, who recently went to Heaven following a car accident on L Street. The deceased Veterans whose names I read today at the Fitzgerald DAV Post Annual Christmas Party with Mayor Walsh, Donny Murray of Hyde Park, Jack Crump of the South End, Charlie Doyle of West Roxbury, Red Noonan from Charlestown, Donnie Higgins, Tommy McIntyre of Jamaica Plain, “Jimmy the Broom”, Brian Hingston of Charlestown, Jughead and Satch, Willis Saunders of Roxbury, Fr. Tom McDonnell of Mattapan, and all the other wonderful people, too numerous to list. Some famous and some not so famous
who God blessed me in knowing through these many years. Well, now you know what makes me tick. This is how I like to celebrate Christmas, by thinking and praying for young and old friends. Certainly, they are all on my list of people I admire and love and will be praying for this Christmas.
Msgr. Thomas J. McDonnell and Frank Kelley Christmas Dinner St. Monica’s Parish Hall (Corner of Old Colony Ave. and Prebble St.)
Christmas Day 11:30 am - 1:30 pm All are Welcome If you are unable to get out and would like a meal delivered to your home please call 857-417-7597
Hosted by: South Boston-Seaport Catholic Collaborative and the Elected Officials representing South Boston
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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2018 SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM
2018 Christmas Season Continues by Rick Winterson Last Saturday, the Thomas Fitzgerald VFW Post 3561 opened its doors for a gala Christmas Party. The occasion was packed with revelers celebrating among Norm Crump’s murals. We hear (unconfirmed) that the Mayor dropped by to greet everyone. It was a complete feast, right down to a specially designed Christmas cake for dessert, Later that afternoon, the “Dorchester Heights Tabernacle Choir”, led by Music Maestro Peter Golemme, presented its Annual Carol Sing to the clients of Marian Manor. This performance included ancient carols, “White Christmas”, and “Jingle Bells”, which was originally a Thanksgiving song composed by James Pierpont from Medford, Mass. BINGO immediately followed.
Santa’s elf Frank Grover with Lew Kneeland and Bill Spain (doesn’t he look great?!?).
Maestro Peter Golemme is the leader of the choir at Marian Manor caroling.
Paula, Joe, Ray, and Cathy are enjoying the Fitzgerald Post’s Christmas spread.
Ed (“Butch”) and Jean Shiflett at the Fitzgerald Post Christmas party.
A tableful of revelers (of all ages) at the Fitzgerald Post’s Christmas “time”.
Compass on the Bay Events 1380 Columbia Road, South Boston
David Hull Entertains with sounds of his guitar December 11, 2018, 1:00 pm Forever Fit With Nick at Compass on the Bay December 13, 20, 27 2018, 10:30 am Richie Bern Entertains with his guitar and vocals! December 23, 2018, 2:30 pm
SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2018
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Reducing Disposable Bags in Boston By Martin J. Walsh
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he City of Boston’s new plastic bag ordinance is a big step forward in our work to cut carbon emissions, reduce pollution, and create a cleaner, greener city. When the new ordinance goes into effect on December 14, 2018, stores in Boston will no longer provide plastic checkout bags to customers. Ahead of the change, we’re making sure everyone has the information they need. We are answering questions and distributing reusable bags and signage throughout neighborhoods and main streets. And we’re asking you to help by reminding neighbors and friends to bring a reusable bag when shopping in the city. Here’s why we’re encouraging everyone to switch to reusable bags: It’s an opportunity to be
good environmental stewards and responsible neighbors. Single-use plastic bags have a big impact on the environment. Plastic bags often end up in our streets and gutters, vacant lots, and trees. They’re harmful to our marine life and pollute our waterways. You can use reusable bags time and time again without tossing them in the trash, which helps to reduce waste and carbon pollution. As a city committed to being carbon free and moving toward zero waste, this is a big step in the right direction. So, how will you carry your groceries home? Moving forward, stores will provide recyclable paper, compostable, or reusable bags to customers, starting at 5 cents per bag. This charge goes back to the businesses to help them cover the cost of new sustainable checkout bags. As a customer, you can avoid the charge by remembering
to bring a reusable bag whenever you shop. Businesses will be able to use their existing inventory of plastic bags by applying for an exemption to the City’s Inspectional Services Department. Switching to reusable bags is an important milestone, but it’s just one of the ways that you can help reduce waste. You can also use the City’s trash app. It allows you to check which materials are recyclable, and reminds you of your collection schedule, which means you may never miss your recycling or yard waste pick up day again. You can learn more about upcoming hazardous waste drop-off days and composting in the city at boston. gov/trash-and-recycling-guide. As a sustainable city, we’re committed to reducing our waste and the carbon pollution that causes climate change. We’re exploring
ways to support waste reduction as well as increase opportunities for repair, reuse, recycling, composting and remanufacturing. Switching to reusable bags gets us closer to that goal. I’m proud of our progress and I know there’s much more work to be done -- but first, let’s all remember to bring our reusable bags this holiday season and remind our neighbors to do the same. Our Office of Neighborhood Services will be distributing reusable bags to residents, and bags will also be available for pick up at Boston Centers for Youth & Families (BCYF) locations. Businesses and residents can learn more about the City’s plastic bag ordinance at boston.gov/plastic-bags or by calling 311, our constituent hotline. For more information on our Climate Action Plan, please visit boston.gov/environment.
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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2018 SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM
Lally Inducted into BRL International Hall of Fame The Babe Ruth International Board of Directors during their recent annual meeting, unanimously elected George Lally into its Hall of Fame. Babe Ruth League, Inc. has more than just top of the line competition. It has a legacy stacked with thousands of alumni who have given unselfishly of their time and resources to provide all young athletes with an enjoyable, healthy and educational experience. Babe Ruth League established a Hall of Fame in 1968 to honor those superstars who have played a vital role in the development of the baseball and softball program for young people 4-18 years of age. George Lally is one of those superstars. Though he was unable to make the Babe Ruth team as a teenager, George Lally has been
involved in just about every other aspect of the game since 1962, when he first became involved with the Babe Ruth League program. Lally’s early involvement with Babe Ruth League was as a coach, umpire, League Vice President and League President in the South Boston area. As a League President, he expanded the number of teams in the league so that every player who tried out was selected to a team. In 1970, Lally was elected State Commissioner for the Massachusetts Babe Ruth Leagues. With Lally as State Commissioner, the Massachusetts Babe Ruth program led the nation in new teams and new leagues, as well as in the retention of existing leagues, furthering Lally’s mission to provide a place for every player who wished to participate in the Babe Ruth program.
Celebrate Julie’s Family Learning Program with a Night at the Boston Holiday Pops! Thursday, December 13, 2018 Boston Symphony Hall 6:00 p.m. Reception, Cocktails and Hors D’oeuvres Higginson Hall –(Huntington Avenue Entrance) 7:00 p.m. Guest Speaker, Michael Patrick MacDonald, Author of his memoir, All Souls 8:00 p.m. Concert This Year’s Angel Award will be presented to James “Jimmy” Callanan, President and CEO of JCALPRO Inc. Jimmy was born, raised and resides in South Boston where he is celebrated for his advocacy and philanthropy of local and city wide charities.
For more information please contact Bob Monahan, RMonahan@JuliesFamily.org, 617-269-6663 ext.11 or Jeanne Feltch, JFeltch@JuliesFamily.org, 617-269-6663 ext.10
For tickets $200,$250,$500, Sponsorship or Program Book Advertisement please link to our web site at Juliesfamily.org or contact Jeanne and Bob
He was elected New England Regional Commissioner in 1975 and an automatic member of the International Babe Ruth League Board of Directors. Lally has been continuously re-elected to the Board of Directors, now serving as an At-Large Member. Lally, along with the late Bob Curran (who served as Chairman of the Babe Ruth League Board of Directors), was instrumental in establishing an ongoing relationship for Babe Ruth League with the Boston Red Sox, the Jimmy Fund and the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. Since 1969, the Boston Red Sox have invited New England Regional Babe Ruth coaches to participate in a clinic at Fenway Park. Throughout the morning, the Babe Ruth coaches are given the opportunity to meet with and receive instructional guidance from the Boston Red Sox Major League Staff. Later in the day, the coaches are invited back to watch the game. In addition, the Jimmy Fund solely supports Boston’s Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, raising funds for adult and pediatric cancer care. The New England Babe Ruth Leagues have raised millions of dollars for the Jimmy Fund through the charitable efforts of the Boston Red Sox and many Babe Ruth League volunteers. George Lally has said many times that Babe Ruth Baseball has been a part of his life as long as he can remember. Lally even met his wife at a Babe Ruth League State Tournament, and one of his sons turned down a college scholarship from another college to attend the University of Notre Dame, a place Lally fell in love with during a Babe Ruth tournament. Lally continues to be inspired by Babe Ruth coaches and what they do for countless youth in this country, such as providing them with many memorable and enjoyable moments and teaching them many valuable life lessons. Following in their path, Lally has
introduced thousands of players to our national pastime with the hope they enjoy it just as much and reap as many benefits as he has. Babe Rut h L ea g ue President/CEO Steven Tellefsen said, “Being named to the Babe Ruth League Hall of Fame speaks volumes about George Lally and his many years of service to the Babe Ruth program. His sincere love and devotion for Babe Ruth League and its young participants comes from his heart. I have known George for many years and he is truly a self less and amazing human-being, always there to honor and give credit to others that came before him. His character and lifelong service and commitment to the program more than justifies this honor being bestowed upon him.” L a l ly joi n s mor e than 200 individuals and organizations who have earned the distinction of being inducted into the Babe Ruth League, Inc. International Hall of Fame. Babe Ruth League, Inc. is a non-profit, educational orga nization dedicated to developing better citizens by providing properly supervised baseball and softball competition for 4 through 18-year-old players. It is the basic intent of Babe Ruth League that every player who has a desire to play the sport is given the opportunity to participate and have fun.
SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2018
Letter to Santa Clause It’s always a pleasure to report on an unselfish act, especially when it’s performed by a young person, and even more especially when it takes place at Christmas. Donald, shown with his grandmother Anna Williams, wrote the following letter to Santa Claus.
“Letter to Santa, I wish my world would have Peace to everyone, and my family could have a small break for a week. The end. Love, Santa, by Donald” Note that Donald didn’t ask for any gifts himself.
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SB Catholic Young Adults Commission Spirituality Committee
Join fellow South Boston Catholic young adults for a special Advent
series in preparation for Christmas. On Wednesday evening, December 19th at 7:30PM in Cushing Hall (downstairs) at St. Brigid Church on East Broadway. Together we will read the following Sunday’s Scripture selections and enjoy spiritual conversation about it and Advent-related topics in light of our Advent waiting for Christ’s coming. All young adults in their 20s and 30s, regardless of prior experience with Bible studies, are invited to attend any or all these nights. Light refreshments will be served. Please RSVP here: https://tinyurl.com/ybqol13zk The South Boston Catholic Young Adults Commission looks forward to growing near to Christ with you, as He draws nearer to all of us.
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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2018 SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM
Kindness Kits (and Much More) at Aloft and Element
The Kindness Kit itself – snacks, toiletries, handwarmers, and a pair of in-fashion crew socks. by Rick Winterson
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loft Boston Seaport District sent us an interesting e-mail last week. As a team-building Holiday activity, Aloft asked its staff at 401403 D Street to assemble what they are calling “Kindness Kits” for free distribution to those in need around the South Boston area. Their staff put together hundreds and hundreds of these kits, which were distributed to anyone who needed them or wanted to distribute them. Aloft still has about 100 of their Kindness Kits on hand and left over. They asked South Boston Online to let the community know that the kits are available. If you would like to obtain one or more of these to give to people who need them, you are welcome stop by the front desk at Aloft to pick the kits up (while supplies last). To repeat,
Christy Loy, General Manager of “Aloft” and “Element” Hotels.
Aloft’s Kindness Kits are entirely for free; Aloft is located at 4024-403 D Street, right across D from the Convention Center and the ever-popular Lawn at D. S out h B oston On l i ne stopped in at Aloft last Monday. We had an enjoyable visit with General Manager Christy Loy and some of her staff. After being informed about the Kindness Kits, we talked about A loft itself (we had already covered the opening of “Love and Mercy” Salon at 403 D). We were informed that the enterprise actually consists of two hotels – Aloft Boston Seaport District and Element Boston Seaport District, which are side by side on D Street. Both of them are managed and operated by Christy and her staff. Aloft and Element both offer a host of amenities. Young singles may find Aloft more attractive; Element ga rners excellent reviews from family guests. In either case, Aloft or Element can offer you that “extra guest room” you might need in space-short South Boston. Their location is quite convenient – midway between First Street and Summer Street on D. It’s within walking distance of South Boston’s Seaport District and Waterfront, and its offices, highly varied entertainment, and cultural attractions such as the ICA (Institute of Contemporary
A beautiful, contemporary 2018 Christmas tree in Aloft’s sundrenched lobby.
Art) and the Society of Arts & Crafts. And you know what? Prices start at $159 for a single – a truly pleasant surprise compared to the cost of most other accommodations around Boston. And please note: Aloft’s “local resident rate” is even lower. Be sure to ask about it! And check them out on their website – aloftbostonseaportdistrict.com. When you’re out shopping for the Christmas Season, stop
in at Aloft or Element and take a quick look around. Check out their Christmas tree and their décor, which includes a striking mural by Destiny Palmer from Artists for Humanity. Grab a bite to eat and drink; they have a bar intriguingly named “W X YZ”. South Boston Online believes you’ll be as impressed as we were. And don’t forget a Kindness Kit for someone who needs it.
SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2018
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100 Guys/100 Women Who Care Bring More Than Their Wallets By: Tara Kerrigan Hayes
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roving t hat t he generosity of spirit is alive and well in Boston, this year’s Giving Tuesday was the perfect night to hold the 100 Women/Men Who Care’s annual Fundraiser. To date, The 100 Guys/100 Women Who Care groups have made a significant impact on local charitable organizations donating over $100,000, and they have no intention to stop any time soon. Graciously hosted by The Black Rose, this year’s fundraiser featured live music by The Lewis Brothers, with Irish whiskey tastings sponsored by Tullamore Dew, complimented by hors d’oeuvres to make for a festive evening to celebrate 100’s mission of collective giving. Yet the focus of the night remained ever present – the quest to find the right organization that would be gifted the donation of $10,000. Not your typical fundraiser, this annual philanthropic enterprise has a simple structure providing opportunity for a diverse array of charities. With each donation, registered guests have the chance to nominate any charity of their choice, which gets submitted to a raffle. Three organizations, (four this year), then gets drawn at random, and a representative of each charity is allowed center stage to deliver a brief, informal presentation followed by a written ballot vote by the actual attendees themselves. But what one might expect to be a string of droning speeches turned out to be captivating stories of humanity, generosity and compassion, each more touching than the next as speakers poignantly described the heart and soul of their charity’s mission. At a time of year when donating almost feel almost obligatory with vague destinations and questionable allocations, it was both reassuring and inspiring to hear first-hand, intimate accounts
of exactly where the money would go and precisely who it would help. There was hardly a dry eye after a heartfelt speech from Brian Gravel of Santa’s Magic, an organization with a mission is to brighten the lives of hospital patients. He spoke of volunteers paying personal visits to hospitals on Christmas Day (and other special occasions), providing special gifts and companionship to aging veterans and the terminally ill, including cancer patients who may never see another Christmas. Also among the nominees and this year’s winner was Camp Hale, represented by Director, Jerrell Cox, who eloquently spoke about the camp’s mission: “to harness the power of our diverse community to disrupt the cycle of poverty for children and their families”. To top off the evening, two representatives of winning charities from past years shared touching stories of how the funds directly impacted recipients, offering earnest thanks to the community on behalf of our youth whose lives had been altered for the better, as a result of the annual fundraiser. While not every charity won direct donations, they did gain exposure for their causes to spread the word about lesser known yet
extraordinary organizations in our area, with the help of 100 Guys Event Coordinator, Dave Greenwood, who seamlessly ran the event, keeping it both upbeat a nd informative. Though guests came into the night with the intention to give, many of us left something as well; the gift of gratitude as we were
reminded of the struggles of those less fortunate in health, wealth, opportunity and downright luck, and the importance of the incredible impact we can have on our fellow humans, thanks to organizations like 100 Guys/100 Women Care. 100 would like to offer a special thanks to The Black Rose for donating their space as well
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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2018 SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM
by Rick Winterson The 2018 Christmas Tree Lighting at M Street/Medal of Honor Park attracted hundreds of people, despite the winter’s first really bone-numbing cold spell. And it was a festive event this year, aided by brilliant sunshine (thank goodness there was no rain to force another postponement). The people who came, most of them with children,
2018 Tree Lighting at “M” greeted and spoke to one another with great warmth, and with not just a little laughter. And all their kids had a non-stop ball. “Snow”, who graced our South Boston Street Festival last September, was on hand in her gorgeous costume. Pony rides, courtesy of John Allison from the Mayor’s office, were also non-stop on two ponies. Tim Ellis, juggler extraordinaire (t i m @ t i m e l l i s c i r c u s a r t i s t .
com), enterta ined expertly and c o nt i nu o u s l y. Then, Santa’s trolley pulled up, ably guided and emceed by the irrepressible Fast Freddy Murphy of CBS Radio. Costumed wooden soldiers danced and sang, and finally Mayor Walsh and Santa Claus appeared. The countdown, aided by three children, began – “Ten, nine, eight, … etc.” – and the Medal of Honor/M Street Park tree was well and truly lit.
Despite the Christmas joy, there were two sad notes. The three f lags over the Vietnam Memorial were being f lown at half-mast; Mayor Walsh reminded us they were at half-mast due to the passing of President George H.W. Bush and the tragic death of Christopher Roy, the Worcester firefighter. He and the crowd then continued with the Christmas celebration.
SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2018
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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2018 SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM
Save the Harbor/Save the Bay Releases this Year’s List of Seven Sustainable Fish to Serve at the Feast of the Seven Fishes on Christmas Eve Thursday night brought the 7 Artists & 7 Fishes Event to Save the Harbor/Save the Bay’s Pop-Up Museum in the North End to celebrate both the sea and sustainable seafood with local artists and chefs. Visitors came from Boston communities near and far to celebrate the gallery opening set up by Save the Harbor’s artist in residence Robyn Reed, and to try out the tasty recipes prepared by chef Basil Freddura of The Daily Catch restaurant. Bruce Berman, director of strategy and communications at Save the Harbor/Save the Bay, kicked off the event by introducing the driving message behind the festivities. “Each year, dietary guidelines call for Americans to eat more fish. With so many species under pressure, we feel it is important to share our list of the seven sustainable, available, and delicious species of fish to serve at the traditional Feast of the Seven Fishes this Christmas Eve.” The fish on the list this year includes farmed oysters, mussels, shrimp and salmon raised in the USA, Gulf of Maine or Georges Bank haddock, black sea bass caught by hand line, rod and reel or fish pots, and loligo squid – better known as calamari. The focus of the feast was on the loligo squid, as the Daily Catch prepared calamari seven different ways. Chef Basil Freddura noted that he “aims to inspire others to be creative
Area artists and chefs celebrate sea and seafood at the Boston Harbor Pop-Up museum. From left to right: Top Row – Ashley Freddura, Basil Freddura, Alex Buchanan, Robyn Reed, Helen Kamins, Justice McDaniel, Mark Rose. Bottom Row – Kristen Barry, Trevor Etheridge, Shaquan McDowell, Chris Mancini. with their cooking by taking advantage of the first certified sustainable squid fishery in the world.” His menu included calamari meatballs, fried calamari, calamari scampi, grilled calamari, marinated calamari salad, stuffed calamari, and squid ink bruschetta aglio olio. Many of the guests only were familiar with fried calamari going into the event, and the spread had them going back for more until they had tried all seven dishes. Surrounding the calamari feast was an array of environmental art featuring the Changing Course installation by North End artist Robyn Reed. The exhibit features fish made from painted plastic water bottles collected from the
More than 100 guests joined Save the Harbor for the celebration of sustainable seafood and the sea.
neighborhood and produced by participants in Save the Harbor’s free youth and beach programs to spark discussion about reducing the amount of plastic in the ocean. In addition to Reed’s piece, the interactive exhibit included rope sculptures from Alex Buchanan, paintings by Helen Kamins, drawings, sculpture and music by Justice McDaniel, intertidal art by Andres Amador, visual art by Olga Karyakina, and the Boston Harbor Mural by Guillermo Erice. Reed reflected on the artists and their work who were in attendance Thursday night in saying that she “chose these artists because of [their] shared passion for the ocean and that they all agree that
a clean safe ocean is what they need to continue to inspire their work.” Save the Harbor would like to thank Robyn Reed and the artists who donated their time and work, Chef Basil Freddura and the Daily Catch, and our partners at Rockpoint Group and Rockhill Management for their enthusiastic support for this celebration of the sea and sustainable seafood. With more than 100 guests in attendance, Christine Pulsifer from Rockhill Management remarked that “the art, food and visitors brought the space to life.” The Boston Harbor Pop-Up brings the harbor, the islands and the beach to the heart of the city for everyone to enjoy. Kids of all ages can explore the harbor, create sand art, color murals, sing sea shanties, and pose for a picture with a big striped bass. It also includes fish prints, photographs and videos created by Save the Harbor/ Save the Bay’s Youth Environmental Education program staff. Save the Harbor/Save the Bay’s Boston Harbor Pop-Up Museum is located at 226 Causeway Street, right next to Title Boxing Club, at the corner of North Washington Street. It is open daily from 10-4pm, and Sundays from 12-4pm. For more information, or to arrange to bring your school or youth group to the museum, send an email to: info@ savetheharbor.org or call 617-451-2860.
Chef Basil Freddura of the Daily Catch frying up calamari to kick off the 7 fishes event.
SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2018
Mayor Walsh Encourages Seniors to Apply for Senior Saves Mayor Martin J. Walsh today joined Glenn and Anita McLaughlin at their Mattapan home to announce that applications are now available for Seniors Save, a program that grants $3,500 to eligible residents to use towards upgrades to their heating systems. Since the program’s launch in August 2016, 134 heating systems have been replaced in homes all across the city. “We want to make sure our seniors can stay warm and safe this winter,” said Mayor Walsh. “Seniors living on fixed incomes face real challenges to afford improvements to their homes, even more with completely replacing their heating systems. I’m proud that our Home Center is able provide additional resources to Boston seniors who may need emergency repairs this winter.” Applications for the Seniors Save program are available on the Department of Neighborhood Development’s website, or by contacting one of the Boston Home Center’s partner senior agencies. To qualify, residents must be at least 60 years old, own and live in a one-to-four family home in Boston, be up-to-date on property tax and Boston Water and Sewer Commission payments,
and have a household income at no more than 80 percent of Area Median Income, as determined by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Glenn and Anita McLaughlin worked with the Seniors Save program to replace their coalconverted heating system, dating back to 1878, which required them to carry water buckets to the attic for proper operation. The Boston Home Center helped provide a contractor, SJH Mechanical, to install a new, high-efficiency heating and hot water system which will significantly reduce the family’s heating costs and their maintenance requirements. “I feel thankful and blessed
for having the opportunity to be a part of Seniors Save and want to thank Mayor Walsh for this program,” said Anita McLaughlin. “I encourage others to apply so they can also get a new heating system.” Eligible homeowners will receive a $3,500 grant towards upgrades to their heating systems. Any additional funding is available in the form of a zero percent
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interest deferred loan, which will only be payable on the sale of the property, a refinance or transfer of the title. Once a senior citizen submits an application, BHC construction specialists will work with the homeowner on the scope of the project, and will help select a contractor from the BHC’s preapproved, licensed and insured contractor list. A BHC construction specialist will then oversee the work from start to finish. At the event, Mayor Walsh reminded seniors to replace their aging heating systems with new, energy-efficient systems that will significantly lower their risks of heating emergencies during the winter and also reduce their energy bills, enabling them to expand their budgets for other necessities. To learn more about Seniors Save and to apply for the program, please call (617) 635-HOME or visit the Boston Home Center website.
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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2018 SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM
South Boston’s Eleventh Mural
For the last few years, South Boston Online has reported (with pride) on the numerous murals of all kinds that grace our scene in South Boston. Why do we do this? Because murals are the oldest form of mankind’s diverse works of art – perhaps going back 30,000 years or more. So we are pleased to record the 11th and latest South Boston mural. It was executed on the side of Fat Baby Restaurant, where Silver Street intersects with Dorchester Street just below Perkins Square. The Fat Baby mural is bright, colorful, and created with a distinctly tropical flair. Pause and take a long look at this mural the next time you feel cold in Perkins Square.
(Photo by Rick Winterson)
Public Meeting
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
400 West Broadway Thursday, January 3
275 West Broadway
6:30 PM - 8:00 PM
Laboure Center South Boston, MA 02127
Project Proponent: Broadway RJTP, LLC
Project Description: Broadway RJTP, LLC proposes a new five-story, mixed-use building located at 400 West Broadway consisting of 36 residential units, two commercial retail spaces and garage parking for 34 vehicles. An alternate date of Thursday, January 10 is scheduled in the event of inclement weather on January 3rd.
mail to:
phone: email:
John Campbell Boston Planning & Development Agency One City Hall Square, 9th Floor Boston, MA 02201 617.918.4282 John.Campbell@Boston.gov
Close of Comment Period: 1/11/2019
BostonPlans.org
@BostonPlans
Teresa Polhemus, Executive Director/Secretary
SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2018
South Boston Catholic Academy News
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Recently, grade 6 students from South Boston Catholic Academy participated in a hands-on workshop, aligned to the Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks offered by the education staff at the MIT Museum. Workshops are designed to inspire interest in science, technology and engineering. Students participated in the Structured Engineering workshop, engaged in interactive learning using math, programming, and 3D printing, to simulate the construction of beam and suspension bridges. In the past, grade 6 students have received instruction at the MIT museum on the science of DNA, robotics and holography. In the spirit of this Advent season, grade 6 did a great job making their very own Advent Calendars. They, too, are counting down the days in waiting, expectation, and preparation of the coming of Jesus, which is the true meaning of the Advent season and then celebrating Jesus’ Birthday on Christmas Day, December 25th. We are now accepting applications online for the 2019-2020 School Year. To learn more about what makes South Boston Catholic Academy so special join us for a tour on Tuesdays and Fridays at 9am. For more information, please email Mr. Jamie Brown, Assistant Principal at j.brown@ sbcatholicacademy.org or phone 617-268-2326.
SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2018 THE PRINT EDITION