THE PRINT EDITION
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2019
VOLUME XIX- ISSUE 74
Offering a Place to Worship SB Seaport Catholic Collaborative By: Tara Kerrigan Hayes
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hile many are aware of the challenges facing todays churches, (from limited parishioners to closings as a result of financial hardships, structural dangers, and more), not enough is said about the extraordinary efforts and good works of those determined to rise to those challenges by continuing to offer the communit y a safe place to gather, worship, nurture and even nourish. Formed by the Archdiocese of Boston in 2015, the South B o s ton S e ap or t C at hol ic Collaborative (SBSCC) serves four catholic communities: St. Peter, St. Monic a-St. Augustine, St. Vincent, and Our Lady of Good Voyage.
For covering such a vast area (Old Colony, West Broadway, Fort Point and the Seaport), the SBSCC is managing to do a remarkable job catering to the ever-growing needs of our diverse communit y. Father Jim Flavin, SBSCC pastor and Father Peter DeFazio, administrator, (who work as a team), are on a mission to spread the word that despite the many set-backs of the church in recent years, there is indeed a place for each of us - regardless of differences or background - to worship. Since the closing of St. Vincent de Paul on W 3rd (due to structural safety concerns), St. Peter’s Parish has offered a safe place for those parishioners to receive, with English masses on Saturdays at 5:00 pm and Sundays
Groundbreaking at Old Colony/Ann Lynch Homes by Rick Winterson
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ome good ne ws happened last Thursday morning, at 10 a.m. on February 14, when ground was broken for Phase Three of renovation/redevelopment in the
remaining units to be replaced within the BHA’s Old Colony/Ann Lynch Homes. As even better news, a redesign will allow the number of affordable apartments in this Phase Three area to rise from 250 to 305 – an increase of 55 units. The Tierney Learning Center was more than Continued on Page 3
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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2019 SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM
Cannabis for Chronic Pain Brianne Fitzgerald, Family and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Recoverymattersma.org
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t first glance it looks like a no brainer. Recreational cannabis legalization first took place on the West Coast and the first serious wave of opioid addiction took place in Appalachia and Maine. If all you do it eyeball the numbers and jump to the idea that pot = less opioid use you have missed a lot. The data is indeed messy. Some say that cannabis is a gateway drug (and from where I sit 100% of the patients, I see identify cannabis/ alcohol/nicotine as their initiation into further drug use). This is not causal it is by association because we have not done systemic studies
and yet 72,000 people fatally overdosed on opioids in 2017. Should we continue to beat the drum for cannabis for everything without knowing whether it contributes or not to that number? Pain arises from multiple etiologies, some is clear cut like post-surgical pain and others are vague like back pain or psychic pain. We have all seen what has happened from the free and openended use of opioids for pain. The use of cannabis, particularly the psychoactive element of THC is associated with several health risks, including neonatal morbidity when used during p r e g n a n c y, occupationa l injuries, and cognitive risks such as diminished executive f u nctioning, information retrieval, motor skills and more.
One Year Anniversary Mass
Helen G. Anderson
May 3, 1942 – February 19, 2018
Sunday, February 24, 2019 at 10:30 AM St. Monica’s Church
331 Old Colony Ave, South Boston Lovingly Remembered and Missed by Family and Friends
The younger the user the more severe the cognitive issues. Ps ycholog ic a l c on sequenc e s of cannabis use (particularly high sativa content strains) can ranges from worsened social functioning to frank psychosis and schizophrenia. As has been noted it is difficult to do medical cannabis research because of its schedule 1 status. What we do know is that the THC element in cannabis is not the most medica lly relevant in pain syndromes. Cannabinoid (CBD) which is less psychoactive appears to be safe and has a proven activity as an anti-inf lammatory and as an analgesic. Current strains of cannabis are heavily weighted w it h T HC a nd providers remain limited by their own lack of information on what is being sold in dispensaries a nd r e c r e a t i on a l shops. The larger issue that sadly gets lost is the complicated and confusing picture that has been outlined in the previous articles and throughout the literature is that we are all different. The variables of how one experiences anxiety, pain, fear, joy and how these feelings might interact
w it h u nc er t a i n c hem ic a l s in c a nnabis is unk now n. So, what does that mean for you? How does one navigate this mess as a consumer, as a parent, as a medical provider? If you don’t care what the limited evidence that we have says, then you are on your own, it’s a roll of the dice. If you believe in the evidence and the current ambiguities… From my perspective, and I unabashedly identify as old school I would say for the occasional (1-4 x a month in a social setting) adult user (over the age of 21) cannabis is relatively safe especially if one follows some guidelines. For those with mental health, medical issues or addiction issues cannabis can be a slippery slope. Using cannabis as selfmedication to mask depression, anxiety and low back pain in isolation without sharing the why and where-to-fore’s could result in a worsening of symptoms and health. For whatever reason you choose to use cannabis for pain let your health care provider know about it. Sitting in front of your computer firing one up day after day is not working.
SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2019 Continued from Page 1
Groundbreaking
Boston’s Mayor Marty Walsh speaks at the Old Colony/Ann Lynch Homes groundbreaking. completely filled, because this is an important step in adding affordable residences, as well as providing for seniors and those having disabilities. The groundbrea k ing ceremony got underway in the Tierney Learning Center at 10 o’clock. BHA Administrator Bill McGonagle gave the opening remarks. He was followed by Mayor Marty Walsh, who stressed how this Phase Three will fit into the City’s 2030 goals for affordable housing. Pam Gardner expressed her profound gratitude for the project’s completion with Phase Three. Old Colony/Ann Lynch resident Bobby Juliano brief ly told his story, as a long-time resident of the development. Then, the ground was ceremonially broken outside, on the border
of
the Phase Three area. It ’s wor t h a few sentences to address the word “groundbreaking”. Obviously, a groundbreaking is a ceremony, but it is a very important one. W hen ground is broken, it means that the preliminaries are complete – planning, designing, obtaining permits, arranging for financing, and so on. These so-called “preliminaries” can take years. More or less immediately after the groundbreaking, the actual work of construction begins for sure. Demolition at Old Colony/Ann Lynch will begin in a few weeks; Phase Three construction begins right afterward; completion will occur late in 2020 or early in 2021. But with groundbreaking over, the project is well underway. It’s more than just a ceremony. There will be three parts in this Phase Three project – Parts A and B will refurbish existing units; Part C will add the 55 units mentioned already. Phase Three is estimated to cost $150 million, of which $25 million will come from the City of Boston. Beacon Communities LLC is the project’s developer. The Old Colony/Ann Lynch Homes are residences that are part of the Boston Housing Authority (t he BH A), which houses approximately one out of every ten (10% of ) Boston’s residents.
Pam Gardner expresses her gratitude for the upgrades to Old Colony/Ann Lynch Homes.
Bobby Juliano, an Old Colony/Ann Lynch Homes resident, tells his story.
A “sellout” audience for the Phase III groundbreaking at Old Colony/Ann Lynch Homes.
It's That Time of Year Again... Please Join Us: The South Boston Citizen's Association for:
2019 Evacuation Day Events! On Saturday, March 2, 2019 The Jimmy Flaherty Kick Off Breakfast 10:00 am
to 12:00 pm The Seapoint Restaurant
( 367 East 8th Street, South Boston, MA)
*************
Clerk ef Courts, Michael Donovan, Honorary Chairman Brea!ifast Buffet & Entertainment, $10.00 Suggested Donation
The South Boston Civic Association is the Nation's Oldest Neighborhood Civic Association. Contact President, Tom McGrath at 1-857-204-5825
Or, visit our facebook page for more information
BHA Administrator Bill McGonagle hosts groundbreaking at Old Colony/Ann Lynch Homes.
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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2019 SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM Continued from Page 1
South Boston Seaport Catholic Collaborative Events
Seaport Collaborative
Saturday, March 2, 2019 Peace Breakfast from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m., St. Monica’s Parish
March 6 Ash Wednesday
12:30 p.m. 12:30 p.m. 5:00 p.m. 7:00 p.m.
St. Monica Prayer Service St. Peter Prayer Service St. Peter Mass St. Monica Mass -SPANISH
Sunday, March 3, 2019 Coffee and pastries following the 10:30 a.m. Mass at St. Monica’s Parish
Friday, March 15, 2019 Station of the Cross (English) St. Peter’s Parish
Sunday, March 17, 2019 St. Patrick Day Themed Coffee and Donuts following the 9:00 am Mass at St. Peter’s Parish. Offering parking spots for parade goers in St. Peter’s Parking Lot for a $15.00 donation
Sunday, March 17 Coffee and pastries following the St. Vincent de Paul 9:00 am Mass
Wednesday, April 3, 2019 Lenten Reflection from 6:00 – 7:00 pm at St. Peter’s Parish Sunday, April 7, 2019: Coffee and Donuts following the 10:30 am Mass at St. Monica’s Parish
Friday, April 12, 2019 Stations of the Cross (English) at St. Peters with Confessions from 6:00 t0 7:00 pm
EVERY Friday During Lent Spanish Stations of the Cross from 7:00 to 8:00 pm
Sunday, April 14, 2019 Coffee and Donuts following the 9:00 am Mass at St. Peter’s Parish Anyone interested in joining us in this ministry for Monica’s
Kitchen should contact Deacon Paul at (617) 268-8100. Monetary donations can be sent to: Monica’s Kitchen PO Box 270799 South Boston, MA 02127
Father Jim Flavin helping out at the monthly Peace Breakfast at 9:00 am. Previously known as a predominantly Lithuanian Parish, St. Peter’s has evolved with changing demands of the community. “People speaking exclusively in Lithuanian are becoming fewer in numbers”, says Father DeFazio, “so we are open to trying a bilingual mass with a mix of some Lithuanian with some English, because the younger members and others are now speaking mainly English”. That mass is held each Sunday at 10:30 am for the devoted Lithuanian community. St. Monica-St. Augustine also offers bilingual masses, with an English spoken mass every Sunday at 10:30 am, followed by a Spanish mass at 12:30 pm. “St. Monica-St. Augustine is actually making huge strides in caring for its community in numerous ways”, says Father DeFazio, “not only do they cater to children with a Children’s Mass every 1st Sunday of the month, but they also have
a presence in the substance abuse treatment community by hosting various AA groups on weekday evenings, as well as Saturdays”. In addition, they have a great outreach to the elderly community of St. Vincent de Paul and St. Monica’s, visiting senior housing complexes as well as nursing homes to offer masses for the homebound. Joining with the Good Samaritan Ministry, they will now be hosting a weekly food pantry each Wednesday (12:30-1:30 pm) called “Monica’s Kitchen”, based out of the St. Monica-St. Augustine lower church hall, where groceries can be picked up by those in need. Beginning in March they will host monthly Peace Breakfasts, held the first Saturday of every month (9:0011:00 am) offering opportunities for individuals and families to gather together with their neighbors for a free meal and friendship. The intent is not only to feed, but to offer families of diverse backgrounds a chance to come together and interact with one another in a peaceful setting. Friday, February 15 kicked off the first ever Peace Pasta Dinner, and will soon hold a Peace Cookout upon return of the mild weather (date TBD). “All of these efforts are both ministering to the needs of our neighbors and helping build within our great, vibrant community”, says Father DeFazio, “plus we have a full calendar of events coming up for Lenten, and more”. (Photos by Jake Manning)
SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2019
Deacon Paul Kline (center)
Peg Thompson and Father Peter DeFazio.
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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2019 SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM
BC Prof. Cronin Speaks on the Origins of St. Patrick’s Day Festivities by Rick Winterson
“St. Patrick’s Day: How Ireland Becomes the World’s Most Celebrated Country (for a Day)”, presented last Wednesday by the 2019 Parade Organizers, the South Boston Allied War Veterans Council (the AWVC), at District Hall in the South Boston Seaport. The featured speaker was Boston College Professor Michael Cronin.
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outh Boston Online is pleased to report that preparations for the St. Patrick’s/Evacuation Day Parade are well underway. Many quite meaningful events have already occurred, including the appointment of John Beatty as the 2019 Parade Chief Marshal, the final approval of this year’s Parade route, and the Parade’s Keynote Address last Wednesday (see our intro line above). In addition, the South Boston Citizens’ Association (the SBCA) has prepared a fortnight of memorable activities prior to the Parade on Sunday afternoon, March 17 – it’s the SBCA’s “South Boston Season”. More on SBCA activities in future articles We’d also like to remind you about the fundraising efforts of the four “Mayor of South Boston” candidates. As you know, the South Boston Parade is privately funded locally. A key part of our 2019 Parade’s funds will be raised by the campaign
events of the prospective “Mayors”, so please support any (or all) candidates of your choice. The candidate who raises the most will become the 2019 “Mayor of South Boston”. The four candidates are all from South Boston: Bobby Diggins, Haley Dillon, Jimmy Donnelly, and Jenn Menjin. Dave Falvey is the Commander of the Allied War Veterans Council (the AWVC), the veterans’ group responsible for organizing the Parade. He and his fellow members of the AWVC presented a free evening social and a talk on the origins of St. Patrick’s Day celebrations in the Seaport’s District Hall last Wednesday, February 14. The talk – really a Keynote Address – was given by Professor Mike Cronin of Boston College Ireland. A questionand-answer panel completed the evening. The AWVC arranged this event in partnership with the Consulate General of Ireland and Boston College’s Global Leadership Institute. Sponsors included the Institute, the Hynes Family, and District Hall itself. Professor Cronin delivered his talk skillfully and humorously over 45 minutes, which included some excellent visual aids of his. Among the major points he made was the fact that St. Patrick’s Day celebrations are really began in america. St. Patrick’s Day is a Holy Day in Ireland. The first celebration ever reliably recorded took place in Boston in 1737, when a group of colonials originally from Ireland went out to dinner on St. Patrick’s Day,
Parade Operations Chief Bryan Bishop with City Hall’s John Allison.
and then marched home. As for some astonishing figures, Cronin said that in 48 countries (!) at 277 sites, green lights are used for illumination on St. Patrick’s Day, including the Coliseum in Rome and the statue of Christ in Rio. Official visits-of-state by Ireland to America since World War II are 48 in number – more than any other nation on Earth (the most recent was to President Trump by Taoiseach Haradkar last year). And in truth, it’s really amazing how many celebrations of St. Patrick’s Day there are all around the globe on every March 17. Don’t miss Prof. Cronin’s talk next year, if it is presented again by the AWVC in 2020. There is another “secret weapon” in South Boston’s arsenal of reasons for celebrating March 17 as we do here. March 17, 1776, was the original Evacuation Day. There were many factors that led up to the British evacuation of Boston on that date, but the key deciding factor was the surprise emplacement of artillery on Dorchester Heights in South Boston on March 4-5. These cannons could have sunk all of the warships in Boston Harbor, thus trapping the British troops in Boston. They had no other choice but to surrender and leave. That was the very first victory for George Washington, for his colonial forces, and indeed for all of the newly born United States of America. And that’s why our Parade route (except in foul weather) goes up to the Heights and then down to Andrew Square. That
Michael Cronin, Professor at Boston College, speaks on Ireland’s St. Patrick’s Day of fame. is the point where those cannons were first hauled into South Boston, along what is now Boston Street. As we mentioned, the Parade plans are coming along nicely: The official good-weather route is set to start at Broadway Station, go up Broadway all the way to P Street, turn back to the Heights along 4th and 5th, and then disperse in Andrew Square. Bryan Bishop, Marshall in charge of Parade Operations, tells us that 104 marching units have signed up and that 110 is a possible final figure. Units from 17 states and other countries – such as Spain and Ireland (of course) – will march. He also confirmed that Amazon has agreed to be a major sponsor of the 2019 Parade. Plans are afoot to mark the Parade’s start (1 p.m. sharp on Sunday, March 17) with a formal ribbon-cutting and a fighter jet flyover. As always, it will be quite a spectacular afternoon!
2019 Parade Chief Marshal John Beatty with History Professor (Suffolk U.) Bob Allison
SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2019
St. Pat’s Day Parade Route Starting at Broadway Station to Perkins Square and continuing onto East Broadway. Follow East Broadway to P Street. Turn right onto P Street and follow it to East Fourth Street and right onto East Fourth Street and follow it to K Street. Turn left onto K Street and follow it until East Fifth Street. Turn right onto East Fifth Street until G Street. Turn left on G and follow it past the front entrance of the excel High School until the 2nd right onto Thomas Park and follow it to Telegraph Street. Follow Telegraph to Dorchester Street and continue through the intersection at Old Colony Avenue until reaching Andrew Square, where the parade will continue onto Southhampton street, finishing at Ellery Street.
St. Patrick’s Day Boxing Show Saturday March 9th Doors open at 6:00 pm first bout to start at 6:30 pm
Boxing tryouts will be held Tuesday’s and Thursday’s at 7:30 pm Saturday at 1 pm Sunday at 12 pm at Peter Welch’s Gym 371 Dorchester Ave. South Boston All tryouts and training are free to every young man or lady participating in this year’s show. All boxers will be matched, by age, weight, and experience and must report to the Peter Welch’s Gym with a mouth-guard, shorts and sneakers.
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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2019 SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM
Having a Ball with Haley Haley Dillon, Mayor of South Boston candidate, rolled out another successful fundraising event at Southie Bowl last Sunday. All ages showed their skills and support! Coming up is a popular “Corn Hole” tournament this Saturday, February 23, at the Michael J Perkins Post, E. 4th & O Street, 3-6pm. Get your spot today! Teams of 2 compete for championship! All proceeds go to the Allied War Veterans Council in support of the St Patrick’s Day Parade.
Chillin’ On D
FEB. 21-24 & FEB. 28-MAR. 3 Noon to 10pm
The Lawn On D is back for a special winter pop-up event complete with live ice carving demonstrations, ice bars, ice corn hole, fun photo ops, and many other surprises! We’ll also have a DJ and live bands that you can enjoy from a heated portion of The Lawn, plus food and drinks available for purchase.
Plan Your Event Create a truly unique and memorable experience for your next corporate outing, private party, team building event, reception, fundraiser, or family celebration. We have dates available for the 2019 season!
For more details or to plan your event, visit LawnOnD.com.
STAY CONNECTED
/TheLawnOnD
@LawnOnD
@LawnOnD
@LawnOnD
SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2019
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Councilor Flynn & Councilor Flaherty Scedule Public Hearing for South Boston Inerim Planning Overlay Distric (IPOD) & Neighborhood-Wide Zoning Boston City Councilor Ed Flynn and Boston City Councilor At-Large Michael Flaherty have scheduled a public hearing for Monday, March 4, 2019 from 6:00-8:00pm at the Joseph P Tynan Elementary School at 650 East Fourth Street in South Boston. The public hearing will discuss the existing zoning deficiencies in South Boston. Representatives from the Boston Planning & Development Agency, Boston Inspectional Services Department, Boston Transportation Department, Parks & Recreation Department, Boston Housing Authority, neighborhood and civic groups and other interested parties are invited to attend. The South Boston Interim Planning Overlay district (IPOD) and the expansion of Article 68 was intended to advance the City’s housing-creation goals within a zoning code framework respectful of the day-to-day living conditions of South Boston residents who have been significantly impacted by a period of unprecedented neighborhood development, residential expansion, and growing traffic congestion. While the extension of the IPOD and the new zoning is an improvement of the previous zoning schemes, there are existing deficiencies, particularly pertaining to minimum lot size, in the new zoning schemes that require consideration in light of the multiple major development proposals for the area. “South Boston residents have called upon their elected officials for a better South Boston zoning blueprint,” said Councilor Michael Flaherty, “Our residents deserve to understand and have a voice in what the master plan for South Boston is in light of all the intense neighborhood growth.” “Councilor Flaherty and I seek to ensure responsible development that fits the character of our neighborhood and looks to address quality of life concerns for our neighbors and residents,” stated Councilor Flynn. Councilor Flynn and Flaherty encourage all South Boston residents to attend this important public hearing. The hearing will be held by the City Council’s Committee on Planning, Development & Transportation which is chaired by Boston City Councilor At-Large Michelle Wu.
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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2019 SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM
Trader Joe’s in South Boston? by Rick Winterson
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t’s more than just a rumor. A Trader Joe’s may be coming to South Boston’s Fort Point/Seaport District, into an empty building on the border between Fort Point and the South Boston Seaport. We don’t have many details here at South Boston Online just yet. All we know at this time is that a formal inquiry has been made to the City of Boston Zoning Board about establishing a retail grocery store. It was made by a Trader Joe’s agent; it’s to be situated in an empty (but renovated) building at 44 Thomson Place. Thomson Place stretches between Congress Street and Seaport Boulevard. The intersection of Thomson Place and the Boulevard is closed to automobile traffic but is open for pedestrian access. The building is a “red brick” historic zone that harks back to the New England wool industry during the Civil War. Parking, of course, is quite limited, but the Silver Line’s Courthouse “T” Station is only a few steps away. At this time, the area around Thomson Place has remarkably varied occupants – from upscale technical offices to a brewery (Trillium), artists’ studios, the Children’s Museum, and the new Shrine to Our Lady of Good Voyage.
The building at 44 Thomson Place – possibly to become a Trader Joe’s?
There is certainly a need for a grocery store in the overall Seaport/Fort Point area that centers on Thomson Place – no such establishment exists right now: You can order an elegant carrot cake nearby, but you can’t buy a bunch of carrots. The closest large, varied groceries would be Foodie’s on West Broadway (nearly a mile away) and the two Stop & Shops located on East Broadway and in the South Bay shopping center. Certainly, auto traffic to 44 Thomson Place would be highly congested and parking there is (very) limited, but perhaps delivery services for larger orders could be offered.
And of course, it’s just a few minutes’ walk from a lot of new residences. And many more are to come. We do not know how much space would be occupied at 44 Thomson Place, if Trader Joe’s moves there. But the “footprint” of the 44 Thomson Place building is approximately 10,000 square feet, which is the average size of the Trader Joe’s stores now. In fact, the Trader Joe’s in Copley Square (the smallest in their entire 500-store chain) has less than 5,000 square feet – it’s
always jammed. Not only does 44 Thomson Place seem large enough, it also has two full stories and a cupola to its roof. Can you imagine a multistory Trader Joe’s in South Boston that has a roof garden as well? In addition, there appears to be enough empty space for a future Trader Joe’s expansion into 36 Thomson Place. And the 44 Thomson Place location, with a modernist park right next door and a rapidly growing Seaport District nearby, is absolutely smashing!
The modernist park next to 44 Thomson Place (and a future Trader Joe’s?).
The view down Thomson Place toward Congress Street, across from #44.
SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2019
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Southie Mayor’s Race at Shamrock
Jenn Menjin is one of four candidates for Mayor of South Boston, which is a fundraising campaign to raise money for the upcoming St. Patrick’s/Evacuation Day Parade. As you probably know, South Boston’s Annual Parade is privately funded by residents, businesses, and local supporters. One photo shows Mayoral candidate Jenn Menjin with her band Celtic Law (Brendan & Al Gavaghan) at her fundraising party in Touchie’s Shamrock Pub last Saturday night; the other shows Jenn and Jimmy Donnelly, another Mayor of South Boston candidate. Good luck to both of you!
The Friends of Donny Higgins Memorial Fund, Inc.
Fourth Annual Winter Gala
Friends of Donny Higgins Fourth Annual Winter Gala
Saturday, February 23, 2019
Tickets will not be sold at the door
The Westin Boston Waterfront Hotel 425 Summer Street Boston, MA 02110
Hosted Beer/Wine and Food Stations: 7:00 - 9:45 PM live Music: 7:00 PM -1:00 AM
$125 Per Person
The Friends of Donny Higgins, are holding their Fourth Annual Winter Gala at the Westin Boston Waterfront Hotel Saturday evening, February 23, from 7 p.m. till 1 a.m. Log onto donnhiggins.com for information and tickets. Tickets are sold through committee members and EventBrite. And a Gala it will be. The Westin is offering you its elegant food stations, accompanied by complimentary beer and wine (until 9:45 p.m.). Ticket includes entry for one (1) $10,000 raffle drawing and ten (10) raffle tickets. A key part of the Mission of the Donny Higgins Memorial Fund is to maintain South Boston’s Donald F. Higgins Memorial Street Hockey Arena – Farragut Road between East Broadway and East Second Street. As Donny’s Memorial Fund has grown and matured, it supports not only South Boston Youth Sports Programs, but also worthwhile youth programs all over Boston and Vicinity – 13 in number, ranging from community centers to team sports to individual athletics – sailing, boxing, and so on. Donny Higgins, a devoted family man and an all-‘round, cheerful good guy, succumbed to cancer of the colon when he was a youthful 37 years of age. He had as a young boy persuaded the DCR to turn an existing tennis court into a facility suitable for street hockey. Whatever he did set a standard for others to follow – father, husband, neighbor, outstanding citizen. Donny’s memory is still an inspiration. Your support will help keep his memory always alive. Thank you.
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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2019 SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM
The Celtics – A Moonstruck Dynasty?
A Super Wolf Blood Moon Basketball. Is it ready for the rafters at the Garden?
by Rick Winterson
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ate Sunday evening, January 20, the moon underwent a total lunar eclipse. Because the moon was at its closest point to the Earth when the eclipse went total, because it occurred in January when wolves bay in hunger, and because the eclipsed moon became a deep orange-red, this eclipse was called a “Super Wolf Blood Moon”. Now, South Boston Online is not superstitious – certainly not! But on Sunday, January 20, (the day of the
eclipse) the Patriots won the AFC title, and then two weeks later, went on to win the NFL Super Bowl on Sunday, February 3. Did the mojo, the karma, or the blushing vibes from that eclipse influence this outcome? It was an outcome that firmly established the Patriots as an athletic dynasty. And it’s quite possible the Pats will repeat next year, garnering their seventh Super Bowl trophy. There may be other possibilities for Boston’s teams. Perhaps it’s significant that the lunar eclipse at its totality resembled a sky-borne basketball more than anything else (see photos). Now, it’s the All-Star Break the in basketball’s NBA. In fact, the All-Star Break ends as you are reading this, and the Celts (37W-21L, .638) will play the real iron in the NBA tonight (Thursday, the 21st, 8 p.m.) – a road game at the NBA leading Milwaukee Bucks, who boast a 43W-14L (.771) record. Let’s see who wins! In terms of dynasties, no Boston
athletic team has ever matched the Celtics. Under Coach Arnold “Red” Auerbach, they copped nine (9) NBA titles. Led by players like Cousy, Russell, and John Havlicek, they ruled the NBA. As an aside, John Havlicek might have been the greatest Celtic of them all – he played in 1,270 games over 16 years, at both guard and forward. He was strong on defense (“Havlicek stole the ball!”). Most important, he holds the Celtics’ franchise scoring record at 26,395 points – and that was before (!) the current three-point era. Well, that’s long ago, of course, but the Celts have been looking good for the last few years. They have competent management, superstars, various starting lineups, and a strong bench. Everybody contributes. Anyone who doesn’t may end up getting sent to the Pelicans to make room here for Anthony Davis. And yes, there was a morale problem with the Celts a few games before the All-Star Break. As we
mentioned, we aren’t superstitious at South Boston Online. But if we were, perhaps we could blame that mini-slump on the General Electric downturn. As you know, GE became a Celtics sponsor when they first moved to Boston a couple of years ago. GE is now backing out. Anyhow, one of these days, the Celts will rule again! So, keep an eye on them. This write-up in no way detracts from the huge 21st Century achievements of the Red Sox and the Patriots. Boston is (very) fortunate to have them as home teams. And by all means, follow the Bruins also. They have been playing well lately. They own 70+ points at this time, as do seven other top NHL teams. Only the Tampa Bay Lightning is soaring at 92 points (League-leading ice hockey? In balmy Tampa, Florida? How ‘bout them apples?). Here’s to dyna sties. Maybe to four of them in Boston one of these days?
Smilin’ Bill (For Once)
by Rick Winterson The Estimated of the crowd Super Bowl Parade varied from 1.5 up to more than 2 million, which was our calculation. But, we have to admit that we missed an important detail Please note that Coach Bill Belichick is not wearing his hoodie, only a white Patriots cap. And what’s far more important, he has a relaxed smile on his face – truly relaxed. And please note also how calm Coach Belichick seems to be. Well, he should be, because he has done it again: a total of six Championships during his reign. Only the Steelers have won six Super Bowls – four in 1980 and before, and two in the 2000s. Smile on, Coach Bill. The three Bs – Belichick, Brady, and Bob (Kraft) – RULE! Wait ‘til 2020. Just wait!
SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2019
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IDB Marketing Manager To Wed The Marketing Manager of South Boston’s IDB (the “Innovation and Design Building”) on Drydock Avenue – which is still occasionally called the Design Center – is Niamh O’Maille. She and Charlie Sykes, a Professor of Chemistry at MIT, will wed on Saturday, April 13, in Ireland. They are a wonderful couple to be reading about so soon after Valentine’s Day (you didn’t forget, did you?). Niamh (pronounced “Neave”, which rhymes with “leave”) is originally from Ireland. She is named for a mythical Gaelic princess; her last name is the Irish spelling of “O’Malley”. A shower for her and Charlie, hostessed by South Boston’s Elaine Fallon, took place last week. Attending were Justin, Joanne, Charlie and Niamh themselves, Stefan, Amy, and Elaine. The shower was a real Valentine event. We wish Charlie and Niamh well.
S O U T H B O S TO N
Community Meeting Customers want a more reliable and responsive MBTA. Join the MBTA at an upcoming community meeting to learn and offer feedback about two important initiatives, Better Bus Project and Automated Fare Collection 2.0. At the same meeting, you can also learn about and share your views about the proposed fare increase.
Monday, February 25 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM Tynan School 650 E 4th St., Boston, MA
We look forward to your ideas on how to deliver a better MBTA.
MBTA.com/community
MBTA. Welcome to a system of improvement.
The community meetings are accessible to people with disabilities and those with limited proficiency in English. Accessibility accommodations and language services will be provided free of charge, upon request, as available. Such services include documents in alternate formats, translated documents, assistive listening devices, and interpreters (including American Sign Language). For more information or to request a reasonable accommodation and/or language services, please email apoggenburg@reginavilla.com or call 617-357-5772 x26.
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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2019 SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM
O’Brien, Christine M. Obituary Alfred D. Thomas Funeral Home Boston Globe Death Notice – Wednesday, February 17, 2019 O’Brien, Christine M. (formerly Sr. Ellen Denise, SND) age 80, of South Boston, previously Seabrook, NH, passed peacefully on Saturday, February 16th surrounded by her loving family. Devoted daughter of the late John J. and Mary C. (Maizie) O’Brien. Dear sister of Geraldine (Gerrie) O’Brien of South Boston, Denise J. Polli of Braintree and her late husband Ray Polli. Caring aunt of John O. Mackie, his wife Teresa, great aunt of Julia, Maria and Nolan Mackie all of Canton. Step aunt of Linda &Tom Plourde of Plymouth, Karen Kane of Braintree and Stephen & Diana Polli of Bethel, ME. Great step aunt of Leslie Egan, Lisa & Kyle MacEwen, and Brian Kane. Viewing at Gate of Heaven Church, South Boston, Saturday, Feb. 23rd at 9am followed by a Funeral Mass at 10am. Burial in Blue Hill Cemetery Braintree. Former Teacher of several Massachusetts Schools. Retired 4th grade teacher from The Exeter Public School System. The family wishes to thank the staff and residents at Compass on the Bay for their care and companionship. Donations may be made in her memory to Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur, 30 Jeffreys Neck Rd., Ipswich, MA 01938. For complete obituary and website please see:
IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD SOUTH BOSTON South Boston APAC ● 424 West Broadway Wednesdays, 10 AM - 1 PM ● March 27 & April 24
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staff in your neighborhood and learn why it’s important to keep wipes out of pipes. You can also pay your water bill with a check or money order, talk about billing or service problems, and more.
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Alfred D. Thomas Funeral Home Milton (617) 696-4200
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Citation
SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2019
Recent Real Estate Transactions By The Warren Group January 27th- February 2nd Buyer
Address
City
Zip
Type Price
Alyssa Viets Keryn Connelly Real Estate Boston LLC Alandra Sheffield Tasha Kitty 37 Taft Street LLC 27 Holiday St LLC Hong Truong Kevin D Obrien Sean F Burke Molly E Obrien Thomas J Barker John C Rapone Kaitlyn Eichinger EPTM Partners LLC Loic A Vincent William MJohns E420 Owner LLC Garrett M Thomas Rafael Landkof Brooke Spirio Jan Ma Jeffrey Basa Steven M Windwer Stephen A Oconnell Amy Blanaru Xiao-Hong Zhu Elysia Yet
12 Sudan St #C 30 Rosemont St #3 10 Alvan Ter 41 Lawrence Ave 53 Richfield St 37 Taft St 27 Holiday St 26 Saint Margaret St 701 Adams St #7 13 Rev Robert M Costello Pl 10 Rev Robert M Costello Pl 314-330 W 2nd St #412 486 E 3rd St #11 428 E 8th St #2 832 E 3rd St 469 E 4th St 129 G St 420 E St 499 E 7th St #3 135 Neponset Ave #5 101 Bolton St 293 W 2nd St #2 254 Bowen St #3 435 E 3rd St #1 2 Cottage St #1 39 A St #15 2 W 6th St #104 1 W 6th St #201
Dorchester Dorchester Dorchester Dorchester Dorchester Dorchester Dorchester Dorchester Dorchester Dorchester Dorchester South Boston South Boston South Boston South Boston South Boston South Boston South Boston South Boston Dorchester South Boston South Boston South Boston South Boston South Boston South Boston South Boston South Boston
02125 02122 02125 02121 02125 02125 02122 02125 02122 02122 02122 02127 02127 02127 02127 02127 02127 02127 02127 02122 02127 02127 02127 02127 02127 02127 02127 02127
RCD RCD R3F R2F R1F R3F R3F R1F RCD R1F R1F RCD RCD RCD R1F R1F R3F COM RCD RCD R1F RCD RCD RCD RCD RCD RCD RCD
$440,000 $454,000 $799,000 $580,000 $575,000 $450,000 $535,500 $740,000 $203,000 $385,000 $439,000 $639,000 $599,000 $645,000 $1,350,000 $1,273,020 $1,650,000 $32,500,000 $435,000 $183,500 $800,000 $521,500 $465,000 $820,000 $735,000 $147,100 $630,000 $985,000
OONEY REAL ESTATE, LLC.
700 East Broadway, South Boston, MA 02127 (617) 269-1000 | Rooney-Re.com
“Call Today For A FREE, No Obligation Market Analysis”
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SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2019 THE PRINT EDITION