SBOL 12-20-2018

THE PRINT EDITION

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2018

VOLUME XIX- ISSUE 74

Tis the Season for Giving Back

Excel’s football team arrives for lunch at Jon Cronin’s sports grille, Tomy C’s.

Excel High Football Team Enjoys a Year-end Christmas Lunch at Tony C’s, Courtesy of the Seaport’s Cronin Group LLC

by Rick Winterson

Y

esterday noon, the Excel High School 2018 football team met at Tony C’s in the Seaport.

The team’s eleven-game season had closed out on Thanksgiving Day last month. It was now time for a celebration. What better place

could there be to celebrate a sporting season than in the elegant Grill Room of Tony C’s, which is located in the South Boston Seaport at 250 Northern Avenue (corner of D?.

Tony C’s is owned by Jon Cronin, the Principal of the Cronin Group LLC. In addition to being a prominent local property owner and developer, Jon is noted for his philanthropic efforts in and around South Boston.

Originally, Jon was approached to see if his Cronin Group would underwrite the cost of athletic jackets for the Knights, the name of Excel High’s football team. He agreed. When he

asked about where these jackets would be presented, he was told that the team had no plans. Jon responded to this by offering the team a lunch at Tony C’s in the Seaport, one of Jon’s dining establishments, and among the finest sports grilles anywhere.

And it’s worth saying that the harbor view from Tony C’s cannot be beaten.

The Knight’s lunch took place yesterday, Wednesday, December 19, at noon. The Knights showed up in their trademark white shirts and red ties, to consume countless servings of cheeseburgers, turkey clubs, Philly cheesesteaks, and buffalo chicken wraps. It was festive event, indeed.

Continued on Page 4

Excel Athletic Director Avery Esdaile, Michael Kineavy of Cronin Group LLC, Carlos Robalo (the team’s Left Tackle, Kicker), Cronin Group Principal Jon Cronin, Excel Head Coach Germaine Sattiewhite, and BPS Chief of Staff Rob Consalvo at Tony C’s. Note the contrasting team jackets on Kineavy and Robalo.

We wish you peace,

Love Faith Laughter

joy and happiness today, And in every day that comes after.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS! From your friends and neighbors at

Easy!

massbaycu.org

(617) 269-2700

147 West 4th Street, South Boston 409 D Street, Seaport Federally insured

by NCUA

EQUAL HOUSING

OPPORTUNITY

2

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2018 SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM

Francis ”Mickey” Roache Boston is a Better Place Because of You Charles P Burke , former Deputy Director of Administrative Services for the Boston Police Department and the Chief of Staff for Mickey Roache when a City Councilor.

A

s we approach Christmas week and we look forward to spending time with our families, please keep the family of Francis “Mickey” Roache in your prayers. “Mickey”, as he is known to Bostonians, passed away on Monday. He was a son of South Boston who had a profound impact on the City of Boston. Roache graduated South Boston High School in 1954 and served in the Marines. He joined the Boston Police Department in 1968.

In 1978, he was served as the head of the newly formed Community Disorders Unit. He

was named an acting lieutenant in 1983, and appointed Boston Police Commissioner by Mayor Raymond L. Flynn in 1985. Roache served in the role until 1993 when he made an unsuccessful run for Mayor.

The people of Boston showed their appreciation for Roache’s service by electing him to the Boston City Council two years later, as he garnered more votes than all others seeking the council. He repeated that feat several times before being elected as the Suffolk County Registrar of Deeds, where he served until 2015. I had the honor of working with Mickey. First, at the Boston Police Department serving as the Deputy Director of Administrative Services, and later serving as his Chief of Staff at the Boston City Council.

Mickey and I were close for a few years. He once told me he considered himself ”a late bloomer.” I will always

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

appreciate his wok ethic and his smile.

Mickey was not someone who wanted the spotlight, attention or even the credit. He just wanted to serve.

As Police Commissioner, he served our city during some difficult years.

He told me,” I never imagined being Police Commissioner or running for office, but I was honored to have done both.” Being the Police Commissioner is a difficult job. Only those who have actually sat in their chair and been in that position can truly understand the toll it takes on them and their families. Running for citywide public office is grueling in its own right, but Mickey did it with ease because he knew the city and its people so well. I admired Roache as he was a visible and approachable public figure. He had a great heart and was a good listener.

When tragedy struck and news had to be delivered to someone that their child would not be coming home, he was a compassionate messenger who seemed to have lost a piece of himself as well - due to the death of a young one happening on his watch. As time moves on, we sometimes overlook our true history. The 1970’s were a tough

period for the City of Boston, and the images that portrayed us around the world created scars for Boston that still exist today. Mickey Roache and Mayor Flynn dedicated themselves to help heal those wounds throughout the 1980’s. They were approachable and extended helping hands to all who needed it. They changed the direction of the City of Boston by bringing government to the people through the inception of community policing. While the 1980’s were not all that long ago, the work of devoted public servants like Commissioner Roache, Mayor Flynn and so many others is often unknown or forgotten by many Bostonians. They played a significant role in improving race relations in the City of Boston and we still feel the impacts of their work today.

When Roache sought elected office on the Boston City Council, his theme song was from the TV show Friends, “I’ll be there for you.” Well, Mickey, you were there for us. A leader, a listener and a friend. You made Boston a better place and we thank you.

South Boston Elected Officials Receive Petition Against Edison Development South Boston Online has been informed of a petition that has been circulated, mostly among residents of the City Point neighborhood. The petition opposes the planned development of the Edison Power Plant site at 776 Summer Street. Said development has been proposed and presented to the South Boston community over the past two years by a corporate partnership entitled “Redgate Hilco”.

The petition contains approximately 1,100 to 1,200 signatures of South Boston residents, who feel they’ll be impacted by the Edison site’s development. Their chief objections concern height, density, and transportation difficulties. To repeat, all of the petitioners oppose Redgate Hilco’s development plans as they currently stand. This petition was sent to the City’s BPDA office, with a copy to: Congressman Lynch, Senator Collins, City Councilor Flynn, Councilor Flaherty and State Rep. Biele.

South Boston Online will keep you posted as further details become available.

SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM THURSDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2018

by Rick Winterson

A Marian Manor Update

Marian Manor is in transition.

T

he Manor is one of South Boston’s bestknown landmarks – for its location and imposing structure on Dorchester Street below Thomas Park, but mostly for the excellent nursing care that it has offered for decades. You are probably aware that the Manor was once the Carney Hospital, some 50+ years ago. Changes in all medical care, including the Manor’s nursing care for the elderly and for swift recovery from acute medical problems, continue as well.

One change that affects Marian Manor is the progress being made in effective at-home care for the elderly. The Manor’s current clientele number 226, a significant drop from their capacity of 376.

Please make no mistake. This is a positive change - a federally supported “keep people at home” trend. But, the Manor must respond to changing needs. And, the Manor is definitely “in business” to stay. It admits new patients seven days a week. It offers now, and will continue to offer, skilled professional ‘round-the- clock nursing care, on a 24/7 basis. Note that visiting hours can also be arranged on that basis, when necessary. Overall, the Order of Carmelites has opened 11 nursing homes and two facilities best termed as “assisted living” residences.

South Boston Online met on

Manor Administrator Kahoney Anderson, Mother Mark Louis Randall, O. Carm. (here from the Carmelite House in Germantown, NY), and Sister Stephen Pereira, O. Carm. (the Manor’s CEO).

Monday with Mother Mark Lewis Randall, O. Carm. from Germantown, N.Y. She is currently the Prioress General, Carmelite Sisters for the Aged and Infirm, and was in charge of the Manor ten years ago. Sister Stephen Pereira, O. Carm., the CEO of Marian Manor, and Kahoney Anderson, the Manor’s Administrator, took part in the meeting. Greg Turner from Ball Consulting (communications consultants) was also on hand.

In addition to the changing mix of patients, the Manor’s facilities are ageing and in need of repairs, upgrades, and modernizing. This will be expensive – no one has to be told about the high cost of renovations in the Boston area. Selecting a unique approach, the Carmelites have decided to partner with a developer. They are presently in discussions with Colliers International, a real estate consulting firm, which they believe could result in two different options. First, the Manor could possibly continue its operations

at 130 Dorchester Street, using only a part of that property because of the reduced patient load. Or, second, the Manor could relocate to a nearby location that is owned by the developer, who would then take over the entire Dorchester Street property in a kind of swap bargain. In either case, the financing for the Manor’s

3

upgrades would come from payments to the Carmelites by the developer. It’s still early days, but Mother Mark Louis confirmed there was much interest in the project – property near Thomas Park is extremely valuable. Sister Stephen stated she was spending the majority of her time on planning this project; meanwhile, Administrator Kahoney Anderson sees to the day-today operating challenges at the Manor.

This entire project will take several years to complete. South Boston Online will keep you posted on its progress. In the meantime, please be assured that Marian Manor is continuing to provide 24/7 nursing care for acute elderly medical needs, certain sub-acute care programs, and skilled rehabilitation – which the Manor will continue to offer, when its new facilities are completed. They’ll also continue to offer, as they do now, the new Marian Manor as a sort of home where one can go to seek wellness.

May the peace of God be in your hearts always

MERRY CHRISTMAS &

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Nick Collins State Senator

4

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2018 SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM

Continued From Page 1

Excel Football Kudos for the event go to Michael Kineavy of the Cronin Group, as well as to Dave Levy and Liz Finlay, Tony C’s Manager and Event Coordinator, respectively. The team members were treated as honored guests of Tony C’s, which they of course were. As a nice finishing touch, special menus that read “Welcome, South Boston Knights” had been prepared by Liz and

Dave – a really considerate thing to do!

Several school officials also attended the lunch. The football team’s Head Coach Germaine Sattiewhite and Avery Esdaile, the Excel High Athletic Director, were on hand. It was also a pleasure to see Rob Consalvo at the lunch. Rob now serves as the Chief of Staff of the Boston Public Schools. The Cronin Group’s team lunch was truly a time to remember, especially at this warmest of seasons.

Michael Kineavy (Cronin Group), Liz Finlay (Tony C’s Event Coordinator), and Germaine Sattiewhite (Excel Head Coach, by the Christmas cookies made specially for the team.

Head Coach Germaine Sattiwhite, with Michael, Cliff, and Steve from Cronin Group LLC. The Excel football team enjoys a Cronin Group-sponsored lunch at Tony C’s, as Director Esdaile and Coach Sattiewhite look on.

From our Family to Yours, Wishing you a happy, safe, and joyful Holiday Season!

Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays!

Paid for and authorized by the Friends of Ed Flynn

Jon Cronin, Principal of Cronin Group LLC, meets Germaine Sattiewhite, Head Coach of the Excelk High football team.

SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM THURSDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2018

5

An Advent Day at the Fourth

by Rick Winterson

W

e have passed the midpoint of this year’s Advent Season; joyful activities and celebrations continue all around South Boston. Last Saturday, the 15th, the Fourth Presbyterian Church on Dorchester Street held two such events. The first was a gingerbread house building session for the Fourth’s child-like grown-ups and their kids. It was a fine exhibition of culinary crafts and the art of model building.

Why ginger? Well, ginger and many other spices were first brought back to Europe from the East by the Crusaders in Medieval times.

In wintry Europe, these provided a welcome treat, after an autumn of eating dried grains, salt-cured meat, and veggies stored underground in root cellars. In addition, ginger

holds onto its flavor better than most other spices. And spices back then were expensive – really expensive – so they were reserved only for use on Holy Feast Days like Christmas.

The Fouth’s second Advent event was musical.

Late last Saturday afternoon, the Fourth’s singers and musicians presented their 2018 Fourth Church Christmas Concert, which featured seasonal

songs from folk traditions. These traditions invariably include Holiday music that combines instruments with choral (and carol) singing.

The Concert was conducted by the Fourth’s Pastor, the Rev. Burns Stanfield, who is a musician of professional quality in his own right.

If you ever have an opportunity to listen to the Fourth Church Chorus in the future, be sure to do so.

During their two-hour Concert, the Chorus performed some 25 songs and carols, ending in a beautiful candlelit Christmas carol reprise sung by all those in attendance. It was remarkably lovely – a truly stirring Advent welcome for the upcoming Christmas Eve and Day next Tuesday.

Merry Christmas.

Happy holidays!

Warm wishes for the season, from our house to yours.

DAVID M. GIBBONS

@MassConvention

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

/MassConvention massconvention.com

6

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2018 SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM

Jimmy Callanan: 2018 Julie’s “Angel”

POPS Conductor Keith Lockhart confers the 2018 “Angel” Award on Jim Callanan.

by Rick Winterson

C

ongratulations to James J. “Jimmy” Callanan are certainly in order. He became the 2018 Julie’s “Angel”, courtesy of Julie’s Family Learning Program, who recognized Jimmy for the astonishing breadth of his good works and devoted community services. He really epitomizes the born-and-brought-up South Boston resident through his love for this neighborhood.

Jimmy is the President and CEO of the business he founded – JCALPRO. JCALPRO is firmly based upon Jimmy’s long, successful experience in the shows, plays, entertainments, and many cultural events he has worked on behind the scenes – as a rigger, light-and-sound-man, technical director, stage director, you name it. This is the basis for his success with JCALPRO (Jimmy has a worldwide reputation. He truly knows the business.

And that success has led him to “give back” in many, many ways.

He serves on a number of non-profit Boards of Directors, and has supported committees connected with Fallen

Julie’s ED Bob Monahan greets the 2018 Julie’s “Angel” Awardee, Jim Callanan.

Heroes, Medal of Honor Park, and the South Boston Community Health Center. Jimmy’s event-related work made him friends with Boston Pops Conductor Keith Lockhart, who presented him with the 2018 “Angel” Award conferred

by Julie’s Family Learning Program last Wednesday evening, December 13.

And quite an evening it was. Julie’s Executive Director Bob Monahan welcomed all of the Learning Program’s guest to the spacious Higginson Room at Symphony Hall – hors d’oeuvres and drinks measured up to the elegance of the Room, which is named for Henry Lee Higginson, the Founder of the Boston Symphony Orchestra.

The program was both interesting and very original. The highlight, of course was Jimmy Callanan’s “Angel” Award, given to him by Keith Lockhart. Julie’s Board Chair Ellen Segal followed with some very encouraging remarks about Julie’s recent fundraising successes. Their fundraising goal is within 15% of being realized – good news, indeed. Sr. Louise Kearns, a co-Founder of Julie’s was then recognized by the enthusiastic guests.

Another very interesting part of the evening’s program then began.

Introduced by Lauretta Brennan, who knew him “back when”, Michael Macdonald took the lectern. Macdonald is known for his best-selling autobiography “All Souls”. He spoke of his days here in Southie that led to “All Souls”, and concluded by reading the famous passage about his “All Souls” Christmas tree – very fitting, quite poignant.

Julie’s guests then took to Symphony Hall for the Thursday evening Holiday POPS Concert, conducted by Keith Lockhart and featuring the Tanglewood Festival Chorus. Santa Claus visited, naturally, “The Twelve Days of Christmas” was comically rendered, and (also of course) there was a singalong. The occasion was rounded out by a tribute to Chanukah – selections from “Songs of Freedom”.

Julie’s “time” was remarkable, as well as being a remarkably successful fundraising event. Congratulations once again to 2018 “Angel” Jimmy

A festive group with Julie’s 2018 “Angel” Awardee, Jim Callanan (far r.)

Lauretta, Ann, and Mary at the Julie’s Reception.

Sr. Louise, Julie’s co-Founder, is presented to Julie’s Reception guests.

Rob, Denise, Margaret, and Paul are there to see Jim get his “Angel” Award.

Of course, Santa Claus visits the Holiday POPS.

SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM THURSDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2018

7

I Will See You at the Finish Line Mickey

Ray Flynn, Former Mayor of Boston and U.S. Ambassador to the Vatican

W

hen Francis M. “Mickey” Roache was a kid growing up in South Boston, he was kind, quiet and shy, but he had a left hook as fast as Sugar Ray Robinson’s.

You made a serious mistake if you took his soft voice lightly.

He didn’t hit you very hard, but he could hit you with a rapid combination before you could

even get ready to throw a punch.

South Boston had a lot of boxers in those days and you were smart if you knew who they were.

Shortly after Mickey Roache joined the U.S. Marine Corps, he became a serious contender for Marine Corps Boxing Champion. His brother Buddy and I played on the EMass Tech Tourney Championship basketball team, defeating Belmont High School with West Point grad and Congressional Medal of Honor Recipient Bob Foley.

Several years later, Mickey started a boxing program with Eddie Kelly and Mike Larkin up the Walsh Police Pal Gym, while I started the South Boston Youth Basketball and the Softball League. We got to see a lot of each other and I got to know Mickey Roache very well.

Mickey and I had the same objective in those days: keep the kids active in sports and you’ll

keep them out of trouble. A philosophy that attracted a lot of committed coaches and volunteers.

In those days, we didn’t spend much time talking about politics or attending political meetings. But as time went by, we started getting more involved in civic events.

Mickey Roache was appointed head of the Community Disorders

by Mayor Kevin White — investigating racial crimes — and I ran for state rep. For the next several years, we saw a lot of each other. The Federal District Court school busing decision tore Boston apart, but a lot of good people from throughout the city refused to give up.

Mickey kept attending neighborhood meetings from Roxbury, Charlestown, South Boston and Mattapan. Yes, he sometimes got attacked by people on both sides of the conflict. But when Mayor White retired, I ran for the office and after I won named

Mickey Roache to lead the police department, which was welcome.

As he once told me just before I was about to run the Boston Marathon, “God Bless and I will be waiting for you at the end of the Marathon.”

Mickey died Monday.

Rest in peace my friend, I’ll see you at the finish line.

Mickey Roache was an honest cop who treated everybody with dignity and respect. Whether he was serving in the United States Marine Corps, teaching kids how to box, heading up the Boston Police Community Disorders Unit or leading the Boston Police Department, Mickey Roache was a person of honesty and integrity. Every man, women and child in the City of Boston could trust on Mickey’s integrity and best judgment no batter the odds or situation.

“Ray Flynn”

8

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2018 SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM

Christmas Party Week – 2018 Christmas parties happened everywhere last week, and then happened all over again. The DHA, CPNA, and WBNA combined to throw a party to benefit Paraclete at Backyard Betty’s (yes, she has a backyard that is all her own). Washington Village, now underway once again, held an elegant party for the ASCA in their beautifully decked-out warehouse. The week climaxed with Dan McCole’s loft-based gala, and was brought to a close by emcee David Coffin at “The Revels” Photos

by Rick Winterson

“Hogan’s Goat” – Skip, Kathi, and Bob – make music for Dan’s party.

Community Services Sgt. Steve, John Allison, Officer George Billotte.

The Andrew Square gang’s all here.

The Paraclete staff: Will (Middlebury), Jill (Fisher), Elaine, Eileen, Susan (art instructor), Kim (UConn), Molly (Skidmore).

Eileen MacNeil, Paraclete Executive Director.

Even Santa babies such as Marlowe (with Katharine) enjoy

SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM THURSDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2018

Neighborhood Associations gather at Backyard Betty’s.

Dan welcomes Carol to his annual Christmas party.

Karen, Katie, and Greta make Christmas music.

The ladies at Dan’s party – Lorie, Dotty, Louise, and Elaine.

9

10

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2018 SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM

A Chronic Illness Survivor’s Transformation

By: Tara Kerrigan Hayes

Y

our world can change in an instant. That’s what Josh Fitzmaurice of Sandwich, Massachusetts learned last year, when life as he knew it came crashing down with the flick of a doctor’s pen. As a young, successful accountant, Josh seemingly had it all, until he visited the doctor to investigate neck pain and was prescribed Meloxicam. That night Josh was rushed to the ER, (with what felt like a heart attack), where he was diagnosed with a nocturnal panic attack and was sent back to his PCP. That’s when he was handed a prescription for benzodiazepines.

Like so many others, he trusted in his doctor and took the benzos (in this case, Ativan), which ultimately would come close to destroying his life. Along with the Ativan Josh was prescribed an antidepressant to which he had an adverse reaction, so his doctor retracted them, but upped the Ativan to twice a day.

One month later his health was on a frighteningly rapid decline. Suffering from increasing anxiety, insomnia, debilitating pain, burning nerves and digestive problems, Josh lost 25 lbs. He thought perhaps he had a norovirus.

Medical tests continued, with each being inconclusive and offering no real answers.

That’s when Josh began feverishly researching the effects of benzodiazepines and found a whole community of people with the same symptoms as his own.

He started to put the stories together and suspected the medications could be the cause of his chronic illness.

After switching to a new doctor, Josh was prescribed Klonopin –

yet another form of benzos, but supposedly easy to taper off of. Then another antidepressant was added by a psychiatrist to help “ease” the withdrawal, which only served to cause more damage.

Terrified and lost in what he would later call an “indescribable hell”, Josh had the realization that it was the cascade of prescriptions from a series of misdiagnosis’ that had led to this avalanche of his physical and mental health. After talking with many others in the online benzo communities, Josh began to taper off the drugs, with very little guidance from actual doctors.

Every minute cut in dose would bring on a whirlwind of debilitating and horrific symptoms. Josh could no longer work and had to leave his job and move from Brighton back home to Cape Cod with his mother. After suffering through a taper, Josh decided to jump at what he thought was a very low dose.

He took every pill and flushed them down the toilet, in what would prove to be a risky, yet life-saving move.

Still, the road to healing would be long and arduous. The abrupt discontinuance of benzos wreaked havoc on his nervous system unleashing a hurricane of new, painful and dangerous symptoms.

Desperate to get better, Josh continued to pursue the hunch that he was ailing from benzo withdrawals. That research led him to the website Baylissa.com, by a woman based out of the UK, who has been helping people suffering from benzo and antidepressant withdrawals for almost twenty years.

Baylisaa Frederick would become the only person Josh trusted for advice.

They began messaging overseas and it was through her guidance and the support of fellow sufferers in his online community, that Josh tapered off the drugs on his own, but he also humbly attributes his healing to his family. “My mom and girlfriend were my saviors, says Josh, “without them I’d be gone”.

Aside from his loved ones, Josh also derived incredible strength from an unexpected source: nature.

It started with short walks to restore his physical health, which eventually led to hikes, then meditation and long treks in the woods. With a new outlook on life Josh began seeing all things in a different light, including

the simplest things like the clothes on his back. He began contemplating nature influenced fashion and seeking a distraction from his symptoms, dedicated himself to learning fashion design through tutorials on YouTube.

Highly intelligent with a natural aptitude for research, Josh combined his entrepreneurial spirit with his determination to recover and Slyk Shades quickly began to take shape.

Fittingly, one of his first prototypes was born of the very trees that had brought him solace amidst his healing hikes in the woods during his darker days.

Purchasing a money tree to Feng Shui his bedroom, it was the quote on the pot that caught his attention: “Wealth Is The Ability To fully Experience Life”. Josh had a vision. “Suddenly this idea popped in my head to inscribe that inspirational quote inside wooden sunglasses that I would design myself”. It would be the first of a long line of messages of hope in Josh’s growing inventory.

From the designing to creation of protypes, to the marketing, sales and even photography, Josh himself has mastered every aspect of his budding, mission-based company. In addition to the Slyk Shades’ retail has now gone bi-coastal with merchandise carried in eight boutiques so far (including Southie’s own Wears and Wares). Aside from hand-crafted sustainable eyewear, Slyk Shades offers Eco-friendly bracelets (with a story), and other new products to come such as winter hats as well as baseball caps, (with inspirational quotes embedded into the seam). There are future plans for a full clothing line.

As business expands, so does the Slyk Shades Family, quite literally, as Josh recently enlisted the help of his younger brother Justin to lead the growth in his sales department. Justin

is not only a sibling and co-worker, but his brother’s biggest fan. “Josh is literally the kindest, most intelligent, and creative person I’ve ever met in my life, says Justin. “He’s my inspiration”.

Soon to be an inspiration to many, Josh is now a fierce mental health awareness advocate and plans to one day start his own foundation to offer a safe space for others seeking benzo withdrawal treatment and support.

He has also recently partnered with the non-profit organization, Calmer Choice (on Cape Cod), a universal prevention program that teaches kids about mindfulness and provides them with stress coping skills to diminish the risk of violence, substance abuse and other self-destructive behavior.

As an ode to the very trees they were born of, Josh has also partnered with One Tree Planted, in which every pair sold plants a tree, and so far has contributed to the planting of over 400 seedling trees in California to replace the trees lost in the wildfires.

Though “benzo-free” since April of 2017, Josh is still not fully recovered, yet it’s clear his journey has been transformational not just with his career, but in spirit. He hopes to inspire others to never lose hope and to follow their dreams. Because, as Josh Fitzmaurice puts it, “Life is too short not to”.

Be sure to follow on Facebook!

SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM THURSDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2018

11

The Holiday Book Sale

Liz and Millie (seated), Joe and Sal (standing) – all of them ask you to buy a book during the Branch Library’s Holiday Book Sale, which is brought to you by the Friends of the South Boston Branch Library.

Actually, Sal (Giarratani) snuck over from Eastie, so he doesn’t qualify for a Christmas hat. However, he did in fact buy a book.

We have great options to help you get them exactly what they want!

Holiday Loans!

Visa® Credit Cards!

Apply online at cityofbostoncu.com Boston City Hall: 617-635-4545 Canton: 781-828-1444 Dorchester: 617-635-1313 South Boston: 617-635-1020 West Roxbury: 617-635-2300 Cityofbostoncu.com

* A.P.R. = Annual Percentage Rate. Must be eligible for City of Boston Credit Union membership and a minimum of 1 year full-time employment required to apply. Only one Holiday Loan permitted per 12 month period. Other guidelines may apply. Maximum loan amount equals $5,000.00. Monthly payment equals $88.00 per thousand borrowed for maximum 12 month term and based on the 8.99% Annual Percentage Rate. All loans are subject to credit approval. A.P.R.s are subject to change without notice. Application deadline is January 31, 2018. **APR=Annual Percentage Rate. 3.99% equals introductory rate for first 12 months. Must be eligible for City of Boston Credit Union membership to apply. Visit cityofbostoncu.com, call or visit any branch location for full disclosures and agreements.

12

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2018 SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM

South Boston Catholic Academy News Merry Christmas to all!

On Sunday, December 9, 2018 we had Pizza and Pictures with Santa‌A Big Thank you to Mrs. Karin Cannata and the parents who helped to transform the school Gym into a Children’s Winter Wonderland. Thank you to Santa Clause, for paying a special visit to South Boston Catholic Academy and to all the families and friends that came to say hello to Santa.

We had a very busy and productive week last week. Thank you, Ms. Eleanor Tynan, our Music Teacher, to our teachers, staff and all who helped make the 2018 Christmas Concert a success! The students were excited to be able to share their beautiful

vocals with all of you. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank all families who send their children to South Boston Catholic Academy. Our school is

filled with students who bring joy every day. We will continue to provide every child a loving and safe environment which includes high level academics to meet the needs

of all students. We are grateful to this wonderful community. We wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year on behalf of South Boston Catholic Academy!

SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM THURSDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2018

13

14

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2018 SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM

First Anniversary Remembrance for Mildred Manning Ballou July 10th 1927 - December 17th 2017

HER JOURNEY Don’t think of her as gone away, her journey’s just begun.

Life holds many facets, this earth is only one.

Just think of her as resting, from the sorrow and the tears. in a place of warmth and comfort.

Where there are no days and years.

Think how she must be wishing that we could know today, how nothing but our sadness can really pass away.

And think of her as living in the hearts of those she touched.

For nothing loved is ever lost and she was loved so much .

The Ballou Family Would Like to Thank Our Friends of P&5th for Their Help and Support During the Loss of Our Beloved Mother. Mr. & Mrs. Anthony & Mildred Vento, Mrs. Mary La Russa, Mr. Peter Walsh Sr, Goddaughter Mrs. Andrea Vento Wells, Niece Miss Mildred Vento , Niece Mrs. Annlouise Vento Porter, Niece Miss Sharon Bornstien, Mr. Nicholas La Russa, Mr. Michael Walsh, Mr. Paul Walsh, Mr. & Mrs. John & Karen Cooper , Mr. Donald Guarnotta, Miss Janelle Guarnotta , Mrs. Maryanne Howell , Miss Tracy Howell Lewis , Mr. Francis La Russa Jr. You Are All The True Blue Southie, Always There When We Need You.

Mother, You are Sadly Missed & You Will be Always and Forever in Our Hearts

USS Constitution to Commemorate 206th Anniversary of Victory Over HMS Java USS Constitution will host a ceremony on Saturday, December 29, 2018 from 11:30 to 12:00 p.m. to commemorate the 206th anniversary of the War of 1812 battle between USS Constitution and HMS Java.

Participating in the ceremony will be USS Constitution’s 75th Commanding Officer Cmdr. Nathaniel Shick, Constitution Museum’s Gallery of Operations Manager Gary Foreman, and other invited guests. The program will include readings from deck log entries surrounding the battle and a gun salute from USS Constitution at noon, followed by a moment of silence.

Under orders to “annoy the enemy and to afford protection to our commerce,” Capt. William Bainbridge, 9th Commanding Officer of USS Constitution, headed to the Brazilian coast in search of merchant vessels. Finding the HMS Java, the two ships engaged in battle. The battle saw USS Constitution’s spars and rigging damaged, her wheel completely shattered, and her captain wounded in both thighs from shrapnel. Despite these setbacks, Constitution was able to best her enemy, and Java struck her colors after a hard fought three-and-a-half-hour battle.

Defeat of HMS Java was a significant turning point in naval engagements for the remainder of the War of 1812. Having lost their third frigate in just four and a half months’ time, the Royal Navy revitalized gunnery training, larger frigates were built to counter the American ships, and by admiralty decree, no frigate of the Royal Navy was to engage an American 44-gun ship one-onone. The effectiveness of USS Constitution’s design was proven, and American citizens began to believe that their small, upstart Navy just might have a fighting chance against their British oppressors.

Constitution, America’s Ship of State, actively defended sea lanes against global threats from 1797-1855. The World’s Oldest Commissioned Warship Afloat, Constitution embodies 221 years of maritime heritage and unwavering service to her country. Now a featured destination on Boston’s Freedom Trail, Constitution and her crew of active duty U.S. Navy Sailors offer community outreach and education about the ship’s history and the importance of naval sea power to more than 500,000 visitors each year. Constitution is berthed at Pier One in Charlestown Navy Yard.

15

SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM THURSDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2018

Boston Children’s Museum Distributes American Girl Doll Melody Ellison to Local Schools, Libraries, Shelters, Community Groups, and Doll Clubs

Public Meeting

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:

Melody Ellison Doll Represents 1964 Civil Rights Era and a Young Girl’s Life in a Time of Tumult and Change

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.

Boston Children’s Museum is in the process of distributing 1,000 Melody Ellison dolls, many to families of limited means,

mail to:

through a very generous gift from the Madison Children’s Museum in Wisconsin to Jeri Robinson, Vice President of Early Learning Initiatives at Boston Children’s Museum. Melody

phone: email:

John Campbell Boston Planning & Development Agency One City Hall Square, 9th Floor Boston, MA 02201 617.918.4282 John.Campbell@Boston.gov

Ellison, is the newest member of the American Girl historical

Close of Comment Period: 1/11/2019

BostonPlans.org

doll group, representing 1964 (Civil Rights era). She is the third

@BostonPlans

Teresa Polhemus, Executive Director/Secretary

African American in the series and the first representing a more contemporary time.

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

SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM THURSDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2018 THE PRINT EDITION