THE PRINT EDITION
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2020
VOLUME XIX- ISSUE 74
Thomas Smith Recieves John “Doc” Tynan Award
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outh Boston Citizens’ Association President Tom McGrath has announced the Association’s 2020 recipient of the John “Doc ‘Tynan Profile in Courage Award. The award is named for the late, legendary South Boston resident “Doc” Tynan and is intended to recognize dedication and courage in the face of over-whelming odds. “W hether he was f lying missions over Germany as a f ighter pilot during World War II, f ighting for his community during his tenure in the Massachusetts House of Representatives, advocating for rights and opportunities for veterans and immigrants, or leading fundraising efforts for various South Boston charities, Doc Tynan always displayed a steady and quiet courage that should serve as a model for
others,” said McGrath. “We could think of no more fitting son of South Boston in whose name we would present the Association’s Profile in Courage Award.” Thomas Smith is the first person in medical history to not only sustain three separate paralyzing injuries but also recover. A standout hockey player who attended the Pingree School in South Hamilton, MA, Thomas signed a Junior A hockey contract to further pursue his dreams of playing collegiate hockey. However, two months into his first season, his career took an unexpected turn and the events forever changed his life. Over the course of seventeen months, Thomas sustained three separate paralyzing injuries. After his third accident on January 11, 2010, Thomas had Continued on Page 5
2020 Mayor of Southie Christina Andrade is now officially inaugurated as the 2020 Mayor of South Boston. Her formal “Installation Ceremony” took place last Saturday evening, the 22nd, in the McDonough Post on West Broadway. That was just two days after her final fundraising event, an evening of raffles at the popular Roza Lyons brasserie on East Broadway. Pictured Above: Mike Igoe (treasurer), Susan McDonough (Chief Marshal), Christina Andrade (2020 Mayor of South Boston), Dave Falvey (Commander, Allied War Veterans Council).
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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2020 SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM
Cosmetic Psychopharmacology By Brianne R. Fitzgerald RN, MSN, NP, MPH
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o s m e t i c psychopharmacology a term coined during the ‘90s by Peter Kramer MD, author of Listening to Prozac. Its meaning refers to “taking one from a normal but less desired or less socially rewarded state to another normal, but more desired or more socially rewarded state.” Simply put, it includes medications that might make bodies and brains function better through modulating motor, cognitive, and affective (mood) systems. I bring this to the community and ask how might this apply to you? There are people who, while not experiencing a psychiatric disorder, wish to minimize the emotiona l discomforts of everyday life. Recently I
saw a patient, a high powered professional, looking for Adderall for concentration and Ambien for sleep. When asked if she used other medications or drugs, they reported that they did use marijuana edibles as a way to chill out. Welcome to the world of cosmetic psychopharmacology! As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, my philosophical base is to use medications (pills) to treat illness and not to provide medication for lifestyle issues. However, many will prescribe for those without a definitive diagnosis. There is an ongoing dialogue among providers as to the ethical issues that may be related to such prescribing. The nursing code of ethics mimics that of physicians; “ as to diseases, make a habit of two things- to help or to at least do no harm.” Patients should be able to expect professional guidance in
pursuing their wellness, and yet I am not willing to treat those who have no disease and are merely seeking their subjective and self-defined idea of wellbeing. However, there are many men and women with prescriptive privileges that do just that. Hippocrates suggested that nature is the source of healing, and it is our job as prescribers to aid in that process. I do not practice in the absence of a diagnosis. Symptom management is sloppy medicine. A “Z pack” for a lingering viral infection has contributed to growing antibiotic resistance issues. We have come to expect a tablet or procedure to cure what ails us. As noted in an opinion piece by Haider Warrach, MD (Boston Globe and Stat, 2020), the US and New Zealand are the only countries that allow direct marketing of pharmaceutica ls to the
consumer, as noted in magazines, commercial T V and social media among various venues. We have been bought and sold by the pharmaceutical industry. In reality, we appear to be a nation of the walking worried, stressed, a nd increasingly socially isolated. Loneliness can make one sick. Alfred Adler called these symptoms the neurosis etiology a nd su g g e s te d i mprove d social connections as a way to improve self-esteem and lifestyle and the style of life. As we competitive and lonely Americans seek the unattainable through cosmetic surgery and cosmetic psychopharmacology new age fads and gurus we see that our need for more, our wanting for more, and our need to reinvent ourselves is false. What is the answer, is there an answer?
In Memoriam and with Gratitude James “Jim” Fowkes Religious Education Director St. Brigid and Gate of Heaven Parishes We give thanks to Jim Fowkes for his many years of service to our Parishes as our Director of Religious Education. Jim died on the Feast Day of St. Brigid, February 1, 2020. He was dedicated to the Parish and was always willing to help in any way! May God Grant Jim Eternal Rest! Amen!
SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2020
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Vietnam Veterans Honored Saturday by Rick Winterson
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touching and meaningful ceremony took place last Saturday morning, the 22nd, at the Martin F. McDonough American Legion Post #368 (McDonough Square, 329A West Broadway, between D and E Streets). Led by #368 Post Commander Susan McDonough, the Post members gathered to honor local veterans of the Vietnam Conflict. The ceremony was capably emceed by Technical Sgt. Bryan Bishop. The Guest of Honor and Main Speaker was Paul J. Moran, who serves as Chief of Staff for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Department of Veterans Affairs. Both City Councilor Ed Flynn and State Representative David Biele offered their remarks, thanking the eight veterans who were to be recognized for their service. Listed alphabetically, the eight veterans honored included Steve Grieg, Michael Joyce (pictured), Noel Mc Auliffe, M ic hael Mok ler, Wi l l ia m O’Brien, Edmond Powers, Al Roche, and William Thomas. During the ceremony, each
Paul Moran, Ed Flynn, Bryan Bishop, Susan McDonough, and David Biele honor Michael Joyce (center), one of eight Vietnam veterans so honored at the McDonough Post. veteran was named individually, received a commemorative lapel pin saying “Proud Veteran”, a nd wa s awarded a book entitled “Vietnam War: A Time to Honor”, which was embossed with the motto, “Service, Duty, and Sacrifice”. E mc e e Br y a n Bi s hop referred to Vietnam’s “Legacy of Service”. Ed Flynn and David Biele expressed their gratitude to the eight veterans and to the McDonough Post for remembering them; they passed
on Congressman Stephen Lynch’s greetings. Chief of Staff Paul Moran underscored the crucial, critical, and continuing need to support veterans after they return
to civilian life here in America. It wa s a memorable ceremony. The Post served ref re sh ment s a f ter wards.
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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2020 SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM
It Was the 2020 Mayor of South Boston’s Week by Rick Winterson
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hristina A ndrade is now officially inaugurated as the 2020 Mayor of South Boston. Her formal “Installation Ceremony” took place last Saturday evening, the 22nd, in the McDonough Post on West Broadway. That was just two days after her final fundraising event, an evening of raffles at the popular Roza Lyons brasserie on East Broadway. We here at South Boston Online congratulate her on this honor. And it is a very well deserved honor indeed. When the call went out from South Boston’s Allied War Veterans Council (the SBAWVC) for volunteers to assume the position of Mayor, which is a position that can only be earned through a challenging, successful effort to raise funds in support of our Annual Parade, Christina stepped up without hesitating, and took on that role. South Boston Online firmly believes it is extremely important to emphasize the volunteer nature of our Parade. Along with all of the many, many other events that are part of our St. Patrick’s/Evacuation Day “Season”, the things we do, up to and including the Parade itself on Sunday afternoon, March 15, are 100% voluntary efforts. And these efforts result in two full weeks of enjoyable activities for South Boston’s people and several hundred thousand visitors from all around the world.
2020 Mayor Christina Andrade (center), with her joyful fundraising crew at the McDonough Post. Part of Christina’s efforts involved recruiting a hardworking staff of volunteers to assist her. She did a fine job on this – her crew was effective and optimistic all the way through the last six weeks. Thanks are due to all of the South Boston organizations and enterprises that helped her as well – donating gifts and prizes, offering free refreshments during her events, and hosting her parties, the last one of which took place at Roza Lyons on Thursday evening, February 20. Dave Falvey, Commander of the SBAWVC, and Susan McDonough, the 2020 Parade Chief Marshal, joined forces to inaugurate Christina into her 2020 Mayor of South Boston last Saturday evening. It was indeed a gala evening at the McDonough Post, where the Post members, the SBAWVC, and Christina’s group
The 2020 Mayor of South Boston, Christina Andrade (r.), with her folks – Jane and John Andrade – at her Roza Lyons fundraiser.
of volunteer fundraisers gathered. After drinks and a sumptuous buffet, Dave opened by reaffirming the voluntary nature of our Parade. He stated, “We simply could not have a Parade without the efforts of Christina and volunteers like her!” Susan draped the 2020 Mayor’s sash (with Kelly green imprinting, of course) over Christina’s right shoulder; below the shamrock it read “Mayor of South Boston!”
Christina’s father, John Andrade, then joined with songster Brad Hanley. They rendered their own version of “The Wild Rover”, which could have been heard in Perkins Square. We will see you at the Parade on March 15, which is now a dead cert to take place, in part due to the successful efforts of 2020 Mayor of South Boston Christina Andrade and her volunteers.
Parade Chief Marshall Susan McDonough and 2020 Southie Mayor Christina Andrade are busy fundraisers at Roza Lyons.
Christina Andrade is overjoyed at the result – she and her hardworking crew raised over $5,000.
A boisterous crowd inaugurates the 2020 Southie Mayor, Christina Andrade, at the McDonough Post.
SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2020 Continued from Page 1
John “Doc” Tynan Award
Thomas E. Smith, far right, crosses the finish line with Carlos Arredondo, Boston Marathon Hero. to redefine his purpose. In May 2010, he co-founded The Thomas E. Smith Foundation, a 501(c)(3) volunteer organization that has donated $430,000+ to individuals suffering from paralysis as well as medical research. Since founding The Foundation, Thomas has been on the forefront in leading the charge for athletes with physical disabilities, received patents in both the United States and Canada for his invention The Look-Up Line (ice hockey’s
warning track), become the first person who has been paralyzed to successfully cycle the eastern part of the United States (2,109 miles from Boston, MA to Miami, FL) and become the first person in the history of the Boston Marathon, who has been paralyzed multiple times, to complete the event without the use of a wheelchair. (completed in 2018 and 2019) In April 2020, he will attempt to repeat history for the third time while raising money for those with paralysis. This award along with the Shamrock, and John “ Joe” Moakley awards will be presented at the Association’s 140th Annual Evacuation Day Banquet, to be held on Friday evening, March 13th, at the Boston Convention & Exhibition Center. A host of special invited Dignitaries are expected to attend this year’s banquet. Curragh’s Fancy will provide the entertainment. McGrath cautioned that tickets are sure to be purchased at a good pace, with so many of South Boston’s most valued community leaders receiving awards. I urge those that are planning to attend to act fast. Table of Ten is 500.00 or Individuals at 50.00. For information on tickets call Tom McGrath at 1-857-204-5825.
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SBCA 2020 March Boxing Show Last Two Weeks For Boxing Show Tryouts Boxing Show Coordinator Peter Welch announced tryouts are going into the last two weeks and any young boy or girl should report for tryout on Fridays at 7:30 p.m., Saturday’s at 1:30 p.m. and Sunday’s at 1:00 p.m. This year’s show will take place on Saturday Night, March 14th at 6:30 p.m. at the Peter Welch’s Gym, in South Boston. Admission is free of charge to all. Tommy McGrath, President of the South Boston Citizens’ Association along with Peter Welch, owner of Welch’s Gym at 371 Dorchester Ave. South Boston, will again be sponsoring this year’s March Boxing Show. This year’s Boxing Show Chairman, Suffolk County Register of Deeds Stephen Murphy, along with Peter Welch, Owner of Welch’s Gym will be looking for young boxers both male and female of all ages to participate in this year’s show. Each young boy or girl will be trained by experienced staff and trainers, Peter Welch, Tommy Connors, Danny Long, Jimbo Curran, Sean and James Murrin, Anthony Cefalo, Eric Savard, Matt Alger, Brian Ferro and Peter Welch Jr.
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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2020 SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM
South Boston Citizens’ Association Thomas E. McGrath, President
“The Nation's Oldest Neighborhood Civic Organization”
244th Annual Evacuation Day Events 2020 Evacuation Day Committee t
Clerk of the Supreme Judicial Court Maura S. Doyle, General Chairwoman Congressman Stephen F. Lynch, Honorary Chairman Mayor Martin J. Walsh, Honorary Chairman State Senator Nick Collins, Honorary Chairman State Representative David Biele, Honorary Chairman City Councilor Michael F. Flaherty, Honorary Chairman City Councilor Ed Flynn, Honorary Chairman Clerk of Courts Michael Donovan, Honorary Chairman Register of Deeds Stephen Murphy, Honorary Chairman
February 29th through March 17 th 22 Jimmy Flaherty Kick-Off Breakfast
Saturday,February 29th
State Rep. David Biele Honorary Chairman Seapoint Restaurant 9:30 AM Suggested Donation $ 10.00
21+Bowl-A-Rama Sunday, March 8th
City Councilor Ed Flynn Cheryl Joyce, Andrea Flaherty, Rich Devoe, Pauline Bare and Joyce Higgins Honorary Chairpersons South Boston Bowl 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM Must be 21+ to attend-no children, please
Ice-O-Rama
John Cunniff Shamrock Shootout Sunday, March 8th State Rep. David Biele City Councilor Michael Flaherty City Councilor Ed Flynn City Councilor Frank Baker Honorary Chairmen Murphy Rink, Day Boulevard Events begin approx. 9:00 AM
Boxing Show
Saturday, March 14th
Register of Deeds Stephen Murphy Honorary Chairman Peter Welchs’ Gym - 6:00 PM
Basketball Free-Throw Competition Monday, March 2nd
City Councilor Ed Flynn Former Mayor Ray Flynn Bernie O’Donnell & Kathy Davis Honorary Chairpersons Tynan Community School Gym - 6:00 PM
The Swimming Competition Tuesday, March 3rd
State Senator Nick Collins and Harry Duvall Honorary Chairpersons Boys and Girls Club Pool Registration 6:00 PM, Meet 6:30PM
Tom & Eddie Butler St. Patrick’s Senior Salute Saturday, March 7th Mayor Martin J. Walsh Councilor Michael Flaherty & Thomas Butler Jr. Chairmen
Mary Walsh, Mary Collins, Kathy Flynn and Joyce Biele, Honorary Chairwomen Saint Peter’s Lower Church Hall - 11:00 AM
Indoor Track Competition Condon School Gym Friday March 6th 4PM-6PM
Joe Curran and Barbara Caputo Kelly, Honorary Chairpersons Boys and Girls ages 8 and up
St. Patrick's Day Road Race Sunday, March 15th
Proceeds benefit South Boston Boys & Girls Club Pre-registration Required 617-516-5441 or hduvall@bgcb.org Race begins at 11:00 AM at the Club
Evacuation Day Memorial Mass
140th Annual Evacuation Day Banquet Friday, March 13th
BCEC 2nd Floor Ballroom New England Boiled Dinner Entertainment by Curragh’s Fancy Reception 5:30 PM-----Dinner 7:00 PM FOR TICKETS CALL 857-204-5825
Our Sponsors
Tuesday, March 17th
Fr. Joe White Margaret Lynch, Honorary Chairwoman St. Augustine's Chapel - 9:00 AM
Memorial/Historical Exercises Tuesday, March 17th Including
Essay & Poster Competition Winners
Bernie O’Donnell, Past President SBCA Robert Allison, S.B. Historical Society City Councilor Edward Flynn City Councilor Michael Flaherty State Senator Nick Collins Bill Foley, Retired NPS Honorary Chairpersons Dorchester Heights Monument - 10:00 AM
St. Patrick’s/Evacuation Day Parade Sunday, March 15th at 1 pm Susan McDonough - Chief Marshal Allied War Veterans Council
W. Broadway & Dorchester Ave
SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2020
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Tierney Center Hosts 2020 Census Job Fair by Rick Winterson
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rom 10 a.m. until 12 noon last Saturday, February 22, United States Census 2020 officials and training personnel conducted what they called a “2020 Census Job Fair”. This was a local event sponsored by Sen. Nick Collins, Rep. David Biele, and City Councilors Ed Flynn and Frank Baker. It was held at the Tierney Learning Center in the Old Colony/Ann M. Lynch Homes project. The slogan of this Job Fair was simply “Come Work for the U.S. Census Bureau”. If you have not been exposed to the Decennial U.S. Census, it is a Federal government function that has a lot of history in its background. The every-ten-year U.S. Census is mandated by our original Constitution. The very first U.S. Census was taken in 1790, and it has been taken every ten years for the last
230 years. The 2020 U.S. Census will be the 24th in this succession. Imagine if you will what the first Census was like – there were no phones, highways, automobiles, or even doorbells (those need electricity). Nearly four million (4,000,000) Americans were counted in the 13 original states nestled between the East Coast and the wilderness frontiers to the West. Nowadays, the U.S. is different but (much) bigger! At 350 million, there are almost 90 times as many Americans to count as there were in 1790. They are spread all over 50 states, Washington D.C., and territories like Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, and American Samoa. But in the end, taking the Census in 2020 of all these people is a responsibility that we all can share., so please consider joining the 2020 U.S. Census teams on your own. One reason for signing up for a job with the U.S. Census is that all
The Census Taker Job Fair opens at the Tierney Center. jobs are paid positions, and the pay is very good – it ranges from $25.00 up to $30.50 per hour; a Census Taker averages $27.50 per hour. As you can see, that’s far above any current or future minimum wage, and it’s quite right that this work should be well paid – a job with the 2020 Census is a challenging, highly responsible position. In addition, your hours working on the 2020 Census are flexible. You’ll be paid every week, and that includes being paid for the time you
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Membership open to those that live, work or attend school in a community of Middlesex, Norfolk or Suffolk Counties** 617-635-4545 Cityofbostoncu.com * Annual Percentage Yield (APY) of WINcentive Savings is .10% APY and is accurate as of 1/1/19. APY is subject to change without notice. Must be a member in good standing of City of Boston Credit Union to open WINcentive Savings. Only one WINcentive Savings account allowed per member. Business and trust accounts or other non-consumer accounts are not eligible. Unlimited deposits allowed, but per calendar year prize pool entries are earned by month-over-month balance increases with each $25 deposit increase equal to one (1) entry with the following maximum entries per drawing period - maximum number of entries per month equals 4, maximum number of entries per quarter equals 12 and maximum number of entries per year equals 48. Account holder is only eligible to win once per drawing pool period. At least one account holder must be 18 years or older. Account must be open and active to win any prize during drawing period. Early withdrawal penalites apply; first withdrawal $10 fee, second withdrawal $25 fee, third withdrawal account closure is required with no penalty. If WINcentive savings account is closed member is ineligible to open another WINcentive savings account with City of Boston Credit Union for a period of 90 days, all earned drawings at the time of account closure are forfeited. Minimum deposit of $5.00. After twelve (12) consecutive months of saving, WINcentive savings account holder may do any of the following penalty-free during the one year anniversary month (month 13) of account opening; keep balance in WSA account, (any roll-over balance that remains at the end of the anniversary month will be treated as a new deposit for eligibility into applicable prize pools for the subsequent first monthly, quarterly and annual savings period); Transfer funds into another savings product offered by City of Boston Credit Union; Withdraw all funds but keep $5 on deposit in WSA to maintain account; Close account. Federally Insured Offer may be withdrawn at any time. by NCUA ** For complete City of Boston Credit Union membership eligibility and guidelines visit cityofbostoncu.com
spend in the training that you’ll get. But there are also other important reasons for taking part in the 2020 Census. It is critically important for your community to be counted accurately because government funds, grants, scholarships, and political representation are all based upon population. A bad Census count can cost a community plenty.
Learn More: 2020census. gov/jobs
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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2020 SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM
Councilor Flynn, Sen. Collins & Rep. Biele Visit Patriot Homes
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ast week, Councilor Ed Flynn, Senator Nick Collins, and Representative Biele visited Patriot Homes in South Boston to tour the site and learn more about housing and other issues facing our veterans and military families. Pat r iot Home s of fer s affordable housing units for veterans and their families. Located on Athens Street in South Boston, it was the former site of the District 6 Police Station and was later redeveloped by South Boston Neighborhood Development Corporation into Patriot Homes. Councilor Flynn, Senator Collins and Representative Biele visited the development to learn more about housing options available to veterans, as well as speak to residents and managers about any other constituent or quality of life issues that they may have.
South Boston NDC Executive Director Donna Brown, Michael Joyce, Councilor Flynn, Rep. Biele, Sen. Collins, Stephen Greig “As a veteran who served in the U.S. Navy for nearly 25 years and Chair of the Committee on Veterans & Military Affairs, I care deeply about our veterans community,” said Councilor Flynn. “This visit to Patriot Homes gave me the opportunity to learn more about
LOWELL L. RICHARDS MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP FOR $5,000 High school seniors who reside in the City of Boston, Chelsea, Revere or Winthrop and are interested in applying for the Lowell L. Richards III Memorial Scholarship must have community service experience and must submit a 1,000-word essay. To be considered, all academic and residency criteria must also be met. Scholarship applications must be received by Massport no later than 5:00 p.m. on Friday, April 24, 2020. For more information on the Lowell L. Richards III Memorial Scholarship, including an application checklist, please visit www.massport.com/scholarships.
the development and the great work that they are doing, and also provided an opportunity to learn more about the type of housing and services that are needed for our veterans. I want to thank the staff and residents for giving us the tour, and I will continue to advocate on behalf of veterans & military families.” “As a grateful American and a member of the Committee on Veterans & Federal Affairs, it is important to see what’s going on within our veterans community so we can find better ways to affect the challenges the face,” said Senator Collins. “What’s clear is that they are facing the same challenges as everyone else- housing, transportation, economic opportunit y- but
they face them with unfair burdens and disadvantages. Thank you to the resident veterans and managers of Patriot Homes for inviting us to visit and listen. It gave me a lot to consider for the remainder of this legislative session.” “Veterans deserve our utmost thanks, respect and appreciation,” said Representative Biele. “I was honored to join Councilor Flynn and Senator Collins in meeting with local veterans in South Boston to learn about their experiences and discuss how the city and state can work together to support our veterans.” Donna Brown, Executive Director of the South Boston Neig hborhood Development C or porat ion, sa id, ”Sout h Boston NDC and the Veterans at Patriot Homes appreciated their visit with our elected officials, C ou nci lor Fly n n, Senator Collins a nd Representative Biele. It was a great opportunity to discuss Veteran issues and concerns and the city and state resources available. We look forward to working with the elected officials to address the needs of our local Veterans.” For more information, ple a s e c ont a c t C ou nci lor Flynn’s office at 617-635-3203 and Ed.Flynn@Boston.gov.
SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2020
Collins Votes to Address Barriers in Mental Health Care
Buddy Has Left Us
Bill expands access to mental health care, boosts workforce, and strengthens quality of coverage Last week, State Senator Nick Collins voted to pass the Mental Health ABC Act, comprehensive legislation aimed at reforming the mental health care system in Massachusetts. Senate Bill 2519, An Act Addressing Barriers to Care for Mental Health, serves as the first step toward developing a more integrated system of mental health care delivery to better meet the needs of individuals and families. Massachusetts residents have historically experienced difficulty accessing mental health services due to health inequities and persistent barriers to care—leaving many without the treatment they need and deserve. According to a 2018 report by the Blue Cross Blue Shield Foundation of Massachusetts, over half of fully insured adults who sought mental health care services reported difficulty finding services. Senator Collins filed several amendments, including ensuring access to mental health education for all K-12 schools, and creating a commission to study workforce development in the field of mental health care. Studies have shown that access to mental health education from a young age improves outcomes for young people, reducing instability in their adult lives and positioning them for success. “This bill reaffirms our commitment to the wellbeing and dignity of everyone in our community,” said Senator Nick Collins. “To fully address the importance of mental health education and care, we must end the stigma and break down barriers to access. Families, individuals, and workers alike will benefit from this legislation.” The Mental Health ABC Act seeks to increase access by removing barriers to timely quality care, providing the state with more effective tools to enforce existing mental health parity laws, and investing in the mental and behavioral health workforce pipeline. The bill is driven by the recognition that mental health is just as important as physical health for every resident of the Commonwealth—and reflects the Senate’s overall goal of improving access to mental health care for all. The Senate has prioritized efforts in the 2019–2020 legislative session to improve the delivery of mental health services in the Commonwealth in a number of ways, including: appropriating record funding levels for mental health services in the FY20 budget, creating and funding a $10 million Behavioral Health Outreach, Access and Support Trust Fund; ensuring that health insurer’s provider network directories are accurate and up-to-date by eliminating so-called ‘ghost networks’ Senator Collins’ amendment to create a commission to study workforce development in this critical sector was adopted, investing in a workforce pipeline, connecting social workers, nurses, and providers to best practices and quality jobs while improving care for patients. The bill now goes to the House for consideration.
Year after year, whenever Buddy passed by our door at South Boston Online, it was always a neighborhood event. Buddy was a toy dog, derived from the Central European Spitz breed, and as all dogs must, he took a walk one or twice every day. But Buddy grew old. In February, he lost the use of his legs and began to suffer severe pain, so he was mercifully put down. Buddy was an amazing dog in many ways, and what’s most amazing of all, he turned 19 before he died. According to that old cliché, 19 dog years are the equivalent of more than 130 human years.
Farewell and Godspeed, Buddy.
THOMAS J. BUTLER MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP FOR $5,000 High school seniors who reside in South Boston and are interested in applying for the Thomas J. Butler Memorial Scholarship must have community service experience and must submit a 1,000-word essay. To be considered, all academic and residency criteria must also be met. Scholarship applications must be received by Massport no later than 5:00 p.m. on Friday, April 24, 2020. For more information on the Thomas J. Butler Memorial Scholarship, including an application checklist, please visit www.massport.com/scholarships.
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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2020 SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM
BCYF Tynan Happenings
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he Ty n a n Council K i d ’s FREE Bingo was a big hit with many prizes given away including a Bike.
This past Tuesday during school vacation week the tynan council headed by its President, Edward M. McGuire and bcyf staff put on a great time for 80 youngsters who played bingo for almost 3 hours and won some amazing prizes including a mongoose scooter, given away as a door prize! We had the honor of hosting not just our tynan kids but the Tierney Center (old colony), Neighborhood house and our new friends from the Jackson Mann community center in Allston Brighton. The kids were excited all day
and played their hearts out trying to win one of the amazing prizes including Target, PlayStation and Xbox gift certificates! Toys, games and their choice of bicycle for whom ever won the Cover -all at the end of the night. (see Pictures) BCYF Bill Ryan, Program Director, and Kate Hennigan, Program Manager both from central leadership were on hand to help as they called out the Bingo Numbers. Rosie Hanlon, Administrative Coordinator from the Jackson Mann brought over a nice group of kids who took home some very nice prizes.
Rosie also was very helpful and called the last game which was the cover -all to win the bicycle. The kids ate pizza and Chicken Fingers courteous of the nice people at the Village pizza on Lst. Water, juices, brownies and candy were passed out the entire time. The tynan staff did a great job along with volunteers; Allison Baker and Maureen Lydon who kept an eye on the kid’s bingo cards all night! Looking forward to running a Family Bingo during the April school Vacation. Stay tuned!
SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2020
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A Brief Guide to the South Boston “Season” by Rick Winterson
T
his short piece of information is about the activities that begin this weekend, February 29. It is more specifically intended to help guests who may be visiting and you newcomers to Southie, so that they (and you) can take full advantage of the many, many events – ranging from quiet to outright raucous – that St. Patrick’s Day and Evacuation Day bring forth here each year. And just so there’s no conf u sion rema ining , t he final event of our “Season”, the stupendous St. Patrick ’s/ Evacuation Day Parade itself, steps off from Lower Broadway promptly at 1 p.m. on Sunday, March 15. The actual St. Patrick’s Day and Evacuation Day are on one and the same day as always – March 17, a Tuesday this year. One of the most amazing things about St. Patrick’s Day is that it’s celebrated around the world, in a huge number of nations that are neither Catholic nor Irish. South Boston Online can only guess why this happens: Perhaps it’s due to spring weather up here, while winter approaches in the Southern Hemisphere? Or maybe Irish members in military units and Irish immigrants carried the word across the globe, way back when? Or maybe the instant worldwide communications we enjoy nowadays plays its part? Who knows? It just goes to prove that our most joyful celebrations have religious roots. Do you need to be convinced of that? Think about Christmas, Hannukkah, Valentine’s Day, and even Halloween. And if that’s not enough, don’t forget the Granddaddy of all parties – Mardi Gras/Carnival. And then there’s Evacuation Day. If you’ve just moved here, you may not know the original Evacuation Day occurred on March 17, St. Patrick’s Day, in 1776. That’s the day the British
The monument on the Heights to the British Evacuation of Boston 244 years ago. evacuated Boston, soldiers and all, never to return (visitors from Ireland love that story). Not only was the Evacuation caused by the colonial cannons emplaced on the high ground in South Boston, it was General Washington’s first victory in our War for Independence. Certainly, the Battles at Lexington and Concord, and on Bunker Hill, were heroically important events. But only Evacuation Day was a complete and total victory. The cannons used were captured from the British in 1775 at New York’s Fort Ticonderoga by Vermont’s Ethan Allen and his Green Mountain Boys; Henry Knox, the “Unsung Hero” bookseller from Boston, hauled them overland to Boston the next winter using oxen. So actually, South Boston really celebrates two (yes, two) Holidays ever y March 17. Here’s a partial list of events you should think about attending before the Parade on March 15: - This Saturday at 10, there’s a K ickoff Breakfast at Seapoint. Four “Unsung Heroes” will receive awards. - Next Monday evening,
March 2, the South Boston Historical Society will present
Henry Knox in uniform at the Branch Library’s Public Room. A ll are invited. - On Saturday evening, March 7, the A llied War Veterans Council (the Parade organizers) will host an Irish Banquet of corned beef at the nearby Teachers Union Hall. - The Sout h Boston Citiz ens’ A ssociation w il l host their Evacuation Day Banquet (with Irish music) on Friday evening, March 13, in the Convention Center. - On Saturday afternoon, March 14, Udaras will present the “Gaeltacht Experience” in the Branch Library’s Public Room. There’ll be many other events over the next two weeks for you to consider (Full list of events of Page 6). AND THEN THE PAR ADE STEPS OFF AT 1 PM SUNDAY, M ARCH 15!
DEBORAH HADDEN GRAY MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP FOR $5,000 High school seniors who reside in the City of Boston, Chelsea, Revere or Winthrop and are interested in applying for the Deborah Hadden Gray Memorial Scholarship must have community service or work experience and must submit a 1,000-word essay. To be considered, all academic and residency criteria must also be met. Scholarship applications must be received by Massport no later than 5:00 p.m. on Friday, April 24, 2020. For more information on the Deborah Hadden Gray Memorial Scholarship, including an application checklist, please visit www.massport.com/scholarships.
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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2020 SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM
South Boston Catholic Academy
M
2nd Grade News
s. O vermyer’s 2nd grade class has been learning about Outer Space and Our Galaxy in their Science unit. The class created mobiles of our Solar System to display their research of the sun and eight planets. The 2nd Grade particularly likes learning about Saturn, NASA Astronauts, and black holes. Who knows‌maybe some of our 2nd Grade students might be future Astronauts! Fantastic job with your mobiles of our Solar System 2nd Grade!
South Boston Catholic Academy (www. S B C a t h o l i c A c a d e m y. org) is currently accepting applications for all classes PreSchool (2.9) to Grade 6. We have Before School
and After School Programs available and high acceptance rate to Parochial, Private, and Boston Exam Schools. Please
contact: Mrs. Jamie Brown, our Vice Principal, with any questions or for a tour of the school at j.brown@
s b c a t h o l i c a c a d e m y. o r g or phone 617-268-2326 for more information.
SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2020
LENT 2020
Tuesdays During Lent The Holy Rosary – Tuesday Evenings at 6:30 p.m. at Gate of Heaven Church
Wednesdays During Lent 6:30 – 7:30PM Prayer, Reflection, Adoration & Confession 6:30 p.m. Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament 6:40-7:00 p.m. Spiritual Talk 7:00-7:30 p.m. Confessions and Adoration Wednesday, March 4th – Gate of Heaven Church Presenter: Fr. Robert Casey Wednesday, March 11th -St. Brigid Church Presenter: Fr. Karlo Hocurscak Wednesday, March 18th – Gate of Heaven Church Presenter: Deacon Matthew Stewart, SJ Wednesday, March 25th – St. Brigid Church Presenter: Sister Mary Ann Connolly, SCH Wednesday, April 1st – Gate of Heaven Church Presenter: Msgr. Liam Bergin Wednesday, April 8th – St. Brigid Church Presenter: Rev. Patrick Nolan, SJ This Evening will include our Holy Week Reconciliation Service There will be 4 Priest for Individual Confessions
Fridays During Lent Stations of the Cross Every Friday during Lent 3:00 p.m. at Gate of Heaven Church
Daily Mass Gate of Heaven Church: Monday Through Friday 9 a.m. St. Brigid Church: Monday through Friday at 7 a.m.
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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2020 SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM
CITATION
Public Meeting
401 Congress Street Monday, March 16
District Hall
6:00 PM
75 Northern Avenue Boston, MA 02210
Project Description: Public Meeting to review the Draft Project Impact Report ("DPIR") for the Proposed Project at 401 Congress Street (on Massport Parcel A2 and the Triangle Parcel) in the South Boston Waterfront. The Proponent submitted a DPIR to the BPDA on Tuesday, February 18th, in response to the Scoping Determination issued by the BPDA on January 23rd, 2020.
mail to: Aisling Kerr Boston Planning & Development Agency One City Hall Square, 9th Floor Boston, MA 02201 phone: 617.918.4212 email: aisling.kerr@boston.gov
Close of Comment Period: 4/3/2020
BostonPlans.org
@BostonPlans
Teresa Polhemus, Executive Director/Secretary
The Law Office of
Paul J. Gannon PC General Practice of Law
Criminal Defense Personal Injury Motor Vehicle Accidents Establishment of Corporations, LLCs Wills & Estate Planning Real Estate Litigation Probate No Charge for Initial Consultation
82 West Broadway South Boston, MA (617)269-1993 pgannon@paulgannonlaw.com
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SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2020
Parking Spaces Available
Garage Parking Space Available
Location:
Location: Columbia Road $425./month
East Fourth Street between O and P
Contact 617-596-6268 For More Details
Compass on the Bay Schedule Yoga With Karen March 10, 2020, 1:00 pm. Join us for a free yoga class! Farm Visits March 13, 2020, 1:00 pm at. Join us as we snuggle lots of baby animals as Farm Visits returns. Richie Bern Entertains March 15, 2020, 2:30 pm
IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD South Boston
South Boston APAC · 424 West Broadway Wednesdays, 10 AM - 1 PM March 25 & April 29
Come meet with Boston Water and Sewer Commission staff in your Neighborhood and learn why it’s important not to pour fats, oils or grease (FOG) down the sink or toilet. You can also pay your water bill with a check or money order, talk about billing or service problems, and more.
Crooner Gian Faraone March 16, 2020, 1:00 pm Join us for the sounds of crooner Gian Faraone! Patrick Hoye Entertains March 18, 2020, 10:30 join us for the entertainment of Irish musician Patrick Hoye, strolling singer and guitarist. Kenny Morrell March 20, 2020, 1:00 pm Join us for the entertainment of Kenny Morrell!
Contact 617-877-1791 or Tracyvineyard@gmail.com
Only toilet paper is flushable.
Come meet our team!
SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2020 THE PRINT EDITION
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