Sbol 03 15 2018

THE PRINT EDITION

THURSDAY, MARCH 15, 2018

VOLUME XIX- ISSUE 56

The Parade is ON!

by Rick Winterson

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ou don’t need to be told that South Boston, Boston, and much of Eastern Massachusetts have been plagued with triple Northeasters that included heavy snows and gusts of hurricane-force winds. However, South Boston Online wants to assure you that the St. Patrick’s/ Evacuation Day Parade will step off from the staging area near Broadway Station at 1 p.m. this coming Sunday, March 18 – come rain or come shine. In other words – the Parade is ON, as planned!

The South Boston Allied War Veterans Council (the SBAWVC) is the group that has been responsible for the Parade for the last 70 years. Every year under the SBAW VC’s stewardship, the Parade has grown. It now attracts more than 150 marching units – the largest

such event in New England and the third largest in the entire country. It has become South Boston’s signature “happening”.

Along with its awesome responsibility for the Annual St. Patrick’s/Evacuation Day Parade, the SBAWVC also recognizes its responsibility for public safety.

For example, early in 2018 the SBAWVC changed the route of the Parade to some extent. It will now proceed up Sixth Street to the Heights and disband where Dorchester Street meets Old Colony Avenue. This will prevent overcrowding Andrew Square, which could prevent emergency vehicles from passing through.

As you are reading this, the SBAW VC has already walked the Parade route one last time on Wednesday afternoon, checking to see that snow removal has been safely completed. They will then be holding their final Safety Meeting this evening (Thursday).

If there are any further Parade changes, you can read about them on SouthBostonOnline. com or our facebook page.

We

will keep you posted.

But have no doubt – at 1 p.m. on Sunday, March 18, the Parade in ON! See you there!

Last Saturday the Woods School of Irish Dance entertained the crowd at the Tom and Eddie Butler Saint Patrick’s Senior Salute. Also picured: Tom Butler, Tara Hally, City Councilor Ed Flynn and Peggy Woods.

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North-South Link Tunnel: It’s About Time

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e c ent s t ud ie s on the feasibility of an underground tunnel to connect North and South Stations prompted by Congressman Seth Moulton, and completed by students of the Harvard Kennedy School. suggests that the cost may be lower than originally believed. The report: Connecting the Northeast: A Cost Estimate for the North South Rail Link, was completed in August 2017.

While anyone in their right mind considering Boston’s over priced major construction projects would be justified in questioning whether Boston can actually complete a transportation construction project without fleecing the tax payers- especially when the MBTA is involved- the report deserves to be considered.

The North-South Link is estimated in the report of costing 5.9 billion dollars in 2025 dollars, and what it will accomplish almost sounds like a bargain too good to

be true. In the report, the authors say: “The North South Rail Link (the “Link ”) would connect North Station and South Station through one or two underground tunnels. If built, the Link would permit Amtrak and commuter rail passengers to traverse Boston without interruption.

It would also allow residents of Boston suburbs to access any commuter rail station throughout the city without switching to another mode of transportation.”

While taking two subway trains across town, (going from the Red Line to the Orange Line and vice versa, doesn’t seem that onerous to many inner city dwellers, this proposal would allow trains from north and south destinations to Boston to connect rather effortlessly, meaning Boston would be a true Hub. Commuters who don’t currently take trains to Boston because of poor connections might suddenly see themselves leaving their cars at their local commuter stations, rather than driving in town to

work every day. There aren’t exact figures on how much this would reduce commuter traffic, but few dispute that it would. Where other cities that had disconnected train systems (notably Philadelphia) have made similar projects, the results have been significantly increased downtown train efficiency.

This is a project that has been talked about for years that was almost done during the big dig, and one that is advocated by Mike Dukakis, the last governor who really actively advocated public transportation in our state. Some of the project savings are attributed to some pretty fancy mathematics, and other savings cite recently improved efficiency of tunnel boring machines. Seth Moulton is on record saying “I believe this is the most significant infrastructure projec t c ontemplated for the New England region. It would be truly transformative and very reasonable to do.”

The city of Boston is growing with real estate development, but it has a relatively small transportation foot print and it will be in a future battle to ease congestion unless we make mass transit truly modern and convenient, commuters won’t use it. Anyone who has seen how quickly the big dig has become congested, must know Boston needs to improve train access.

The Baker administration has been considering the expansion of South Station over the NorthSouth Link, and has been criticized

by Moulton (Mouton called it a “2 billion-dollar waste.”) for doing so, largely because he said the station expansion would be obsolete in a decade, and if the North South Link was done instead, the South Station expansion would not be necessary. We hope that Charlie Baker doesn’t get cold feet like Mitt Romney did when the opportunity presented itself before, and that Boston finally connects itself after all these years.

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May luck be our companion May friends stand by our side May history remind us all Of Ireland’s faith and pride May God bless all with happiness May love and faith abide.

Happy St. Patrick’s Day! Congressman & Mrs.

Stephen F. Lynch and family

Paid for by the Lynch for Congress Committee. Brian Miller, Treasurer

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THURSDAY, MARCH 15, 2018

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Collins Opens Campaign Headquarters

by Rick Winterson

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aturday morning was a busy one for Rep. Nick Collins.

Nick is South Boston’s state Representative, of course, and he decided to run in a Special Election for the Massachusetts Senate after Linda Dorcena Forry unexpectedly stepped down to take a position in the private sector. He spent Saturday morning opening three Campaign Headquarters. At 9 a.m., he was at his Dorchester Headquarters, 1173 Adams Street, for its Grand Opening; 10:30 a.m. saw him at the Grand Opening of his Mattapan Headquarters, 522 River Street.

After making an appearance at the 2018 Senior Salute in St. Monica Church Hall, Nick arrived at his South Boston Headquarters, 666 East Broadway, at noon. A Grand Opening crowd of highly vocal, sign-bearing supporters welcomed him enthusiastically. Pizza and soft drinks marked the occasion.

The greeting committee

A loyal crowd of supporters greet Rep. Nick Collins (front and center), candidate for state Senate, outside his just-opened South Boston campaign headquarters, 666 East Broadway. consisted of District 2 City Councilor Ed Flynn and Register od Deeds Steve Murphy. Greetings were also sent by City Councilor-at-Large Michael Flaherty and Congressman Steve Lynch, who is engaged in the annual rite of visiting prospective colleges with his daughter. Ex-state Sen. Jack Hart was also on hand. Flynn spoke of the reputation as a hard worker that Nick has earned during his seven

years as a Representative. Murphy said, “Nick Collins has certainly made his mark in the House.”

During Nick’s remarks, he encouraged as much voter turnout as possible. This is a Special Election, of course, but the Primary takes place soon (April 3), followed shortly by the General Election (May 1). He went on to mention that there will be regular elections this fall for both him

and for Steve Murphy. Rep. Nick Collins has spent his professional life in public service. He is married.

His wife Olivia is a doctor; they have a newborn daughter, Justine.

Linda Dorcena Forry has endorsed him to succeed her in the Senate, so it appears that Rep. Nick Collins’ campaign for the State Senate is off to a good start.

Robert, Kathy, Auntie Ree, Auntie Mo, and Ana await Rep. Nick Collin’s arrival at his campaign headquarters.

Rep. Nick Collins, candidate for state Senate, formally opens his campaign headquarters with some remarks. City Councilor Ed Flynn and Register of Deeds Steve Murphy are looking on.

SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM THURSDAY, MARCH 15, 2018

105 West First Street: Business Office Park

Bu si ne s s of f ic e pa rk s don’t thrill people, generally spea k ing , but pa r t icu la rly when approaching the border lines of South Boston and the Seaport district, their presence is changing the complexion of neighborhoods. The quasi industrial area at 105 West First Street slated to become an office park, spear headed by 105 West First Street LLC, an affiliate of Ares Management (an international design firm), developed by CV Properties, is one such project. Perhaps the most prominent projects in the Seaport that CV Properties is known for are the D Street Hotels: A Loft and Element.

T h i s proje c t, a l re a dy approve d by t he BPDA encompasses, 266,000 sq. ft. in an eight story office building including innovation spaces, retail, office space, a cafe, 35 parking spaced garage, and small street scape improvements on two sides. Tucked up tightly

against the site of Artists’ for Humanity, its contextual fiber cement cladding will create some warmth in the industrial area, and the lower levels look accessible with a welcoming atrium space facing the main park. When one considers the number of worker bees that will eventually fill this building, the

Public Service Announcement – Road Date: March 18, 2018

Race – Traffic Delays

Start Time: 11 AM

Expect Traffic Delays from 11 – 11:40 AM on Broadway: E Street to Farragut Statute Cityside neighborhood in the vicinity of the Club will be affected 9:00 AM – 12 noon W 6th Street from E to Dorchester St and F from Tudor to W 5th closed to traffic from 9-12.

Some Parking Restrictions Apply Next to the Club – NO PARKING W 6th, F to Dorchester - both sides NO PARKING F St from W 6th to Bowen (Club-side only) Please Look for Fliers and BTD Signs If you’re around Sunday morning, show our runners your Southie spirit and give them a warm and festive welcome.

May you have warm words on a cold evening, a full moon on a dark night,

and the road downhill all the way to your door.

Irish Blessing

Thank you for your patience and thank you for your support !

underground parking spaces seems a little on the short side.

W hi le no one wou ld describe the building as being highly innovative, in renderings it seems to fit snugly into the space allotted which is bordered by the South Boston Bypass

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road, and A Street Park, with the end result being rather tight promenades on its borders. The sidewalk expansions don’t look generous, as the architects have taken every square foot possible for the building, but perhaps this is preferable to the building going up beyond its seven f loor elevation. The upper level balconies add an interesting element to the structure, and the building’s ground f loor interior will offer some retail and meeting spaces, and the now ubiquitous “innovation” space that must be in every new building, that looks at the onset to be fairly open- public/ private space. Architecturally this looks like a modern extension of the Gillette Headquarters nearby, and it reveals the growing trend of more density in the South Boston neighborhoods.

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THURSDAY, MARCH 15, 2018

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Barbara Signor, Parade Chief Marshal, Hostesses 2018 Banquet at Lith Club

by Rick Winterson

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outh Boston’s two-week St. Patrick’s/Evacuation Day “Season” begins with the Kick-Off Breakfast, and then ends a fortnight later with the Parade itself on the Sunday on or about Ides of March.

A high point among our many activities occurs on Sunday afternoon during the middle weekend. That’s the Annual Parade Chief Marshal’s Banquet, sponsored by the South Boston Allied War Veterans Council (the SBAWVC), which took place on March 11 at the Lithuanian Club this year.

A couple of definitions: The SBAWVC is the group that bears complete responsibility for arranging the Annual Parade here in South Boston. Since its beginning 107 years ago, our Parade has become the largest in New England and the third largest in the entire nation. The Parade Chief Marshal is selected by the SBAWVC from among deserving local military veterans. They chose

Ed “Butch” Shiflett, Jean Shiflett, and Allied War Veterans Commander Dave Falvey arrive at the 2018 Chief Marshal’s Banquet.

Barbara Signor, USMC, to be the 2018 Parade Chief. Marshal. She chaired the Banquet last Sunday.

The Lith Club, a popular South Boston gathering place, was an ideal location for the Banquet. Fasano Caterers prepared and “Consider It Done” served an excellent, traditional corned-beef-and-cabbage Irish feast, including beets, carrots, and turnip slices. Second helpings were encouraged, and yes, the Irish soda bread contained raisins (but

no caraway). Carol Beatty even brought her own Dietz & Watson horseradish sauce. There’s nothing like being prepared - fully prepared.

The Chief Marshal’s Head

Table, which seated a “Lucky 13” total of banqueteers, also constituted the Banquet’s program. Fr. Gerald Souza invoked the Banquet’s blessing at its start, as well as valedictory prayer at the end. Some of the key points included historical remarks concerning the USS Constitution by its Commander Nathaniel Shick, the meaning of the Parade by Parade Organizer Tim Duross, Commander Dave Falvey’s description of the Parade as a community effort (including the local, non-tax funding of the event), and Keynote Speaker Rep. Nick Collins, who spoke of the meaning of the annual festivities leading to the Parade. It’s not possible in this brief article to capture all that was said, but Parade Chief Marshal Barbara Signor spoke for everyone when she talked with great emphasis about America’s veterans – short, simple, and to the point: “Don’t ever forget them!”

Fr. Gerald Souza, at the Banquet’s head table, calls down a blessing on the 2018 Chief Marshal’s Banquet.

City Councilor Ed Flynn presents a flag to Barbara Signor, which had been flown over the Capitol Building and then was sent to her by Congressman Steve Lynch.

Yes, Carol Beatty brought her own favorite horseradish sauce.

Constitution Commander Nathaniel Shick.

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The loyal Banquet staff from “Consider It Done” served an excellent Irish feast from Fasano Caterers.

Wishing our friends and neighbors a successful Evacuation Day Commemoration.

An Allied War Veterans Council table at the 2018 Chief Marshal’s Banquet.

The South Boston Historical Society attends the Chief Marshal’s Banquet?

massport.com

One of two Castle Island Association tables at the 2018 Chief Marshal’s Banquet.

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Boys & Girls Club Luncheon Features a Topnotch Program

by Rick Winterson The South Boston Boys & Girls Club, situated on Sixth Street across from the St. Augustine Chapel, is also called the Edgerl;ey Family South Boston Club in honor of substantial donations form that family. For 41 years, the Club has held a St. Patrick’s Day Luncheon. Last Thursday saw their 42nd Luncheon take place at South Boston’s popular Laugh Boston, located in the Westin Hotel by the Convention Center.

The Club Luncheon is always a festive event. It features both comic and musical entertainment (Irish in honor of Patrick, of course) that regales the crowd that attends each year. The 2018 Luncheon was no exception.

In fact, it was a special celebration, because this year of Our Lord 2018 is the 125th Anniversary of the Boys & Girls Club’s efforts in the City of Boston. On March 11, in 1893, the Charlestown Club was established – it still exists and is in full operation.

There is an interesting historical parallel here as well. Boston’s original colonists (called “Puritans”) came here in 1630, almost 400 years ago. Like the Boys & Girls Club, they first settled in Charlestown – named for England’s King Charles I – and then moved to Boston and down into Dorchester, just as the Boys & Girls Clubs have done, beginning almost 250 years later.

Father Joe White, himself a supporter of South Boston’s youth organization, called down a blessing, and the Luncheon got underway – a

traditional feast of corned-beef-andcabbage, along with carrots and potatoes (naturally). The program began almost immediately – a courteous feature of The Club’s workday Luncheon.

Some of the speakers told Irish jokes, undoubtedly to prepare for the St. Patrick’s Day Breakfast a week from Sunday. All of them spoke briefly, and with great good humor – poking goodnatured fun at themselves and at the Irish heritage in South Boston. Clerk of Court Maura Doyle narrated the stories that garnered the most laughter. She is a natural storyteller with an instinctive sense of humor (you had to be there).

The most inspiring speaker was a young man named Jose Rodriguez. He was elected to what the Club calls the 2018 “Keystone Speaker”. In addition, he is the Edgerley Family South Boston Club’s “Youth of the Year”. Jose is a native South Bostonian, born on Gavin Way. His remarks were devoted to what he plans for his life – becoming a master chef, after attending Johnson & Wales.

He stressed how much the Boys & Girls Club has meant to him and to his plans.

John Tobin served as a very callable Host and Master of Ceremonies.

Guests at the Luncheon came and went to the strains of the Boston Police Gaelic Column Pipes. The popular local trio, Curragh’s Fancy (with Celtic fiddle) played a rousing selection of Irish tunes. The comedy was provided by comedian Dave Russo (from Malden). His rapid-fire delivery capped off the Luncheon program very well.

Boys & Girls Club supporters all – Tom McGrath, Michele Hart, Billy Higgins.

SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM THURSDAY, MARCH 15, 2018

Curragh’s Fancy (with Irish fiddle) entertain at 2018 Boys & Girls Club Luncheon

Former Boys & Girls Club alumni Ray Flynn and his wife Cathy.

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Keystone Speaker Jose Rodriguez (r.) addresses the Boys & Girls Club Luncheon – BGCB Pres. Josh Kraft, BPD Comm. Bill Evans, Councilor Michael Flaherty, Councilor Ed Flynn, Rep. Nick Collins, and Gov. Charlie Baker look on form the head table.

David Russo, a local-born (Malden) comic convulses the Club’s Luncheon guests.

Suffolk Clerk of Court Maura Doyle entertains the guest.

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THURSDAY, MARCH 15, 2018

South Boston Citizens’ Association 2018 Boxing Show

Seventy (70) years have passed since the first St. Patrick’s/ Evacuation Day Boxing Show.

It has always been an exciting night of fights; last Saturday night was no exception. Special guests included Las Vegas’s Dana White of Zuffa Boxing (Zuffa is Italian for “fight”) and Danny Long, a local boxer who received a special tribute award.

Respects were paid with a 10-Count Salute to all of the boxers who took part, along with members of the boxing world who passed away this year – boxers

Joe DeNucci, David Attardo, and Eddy Macaloney; former state Boxing Commissioner Bill Pender; and Barbara Roache, the mother of world-famous Trainer and Ring Judge Freddie Roache. May they rest in peace.

I would like to extend a special Thank You to all those who supported and helped with the Boxing Show, from Day One of the tryouts to the Fight Night clean-up.

(Photos by Joe Kelly)

Below are Special Awards Recipients St. Patricks Day Boxing Show Jr. Golden Gloves Special Awards Bobby Rehm Isaiah Tavares Dempsey Murphy Aidan White vs Andre LeClerc Danny Long

Outstanding Boxer Under 100lbs Outstanding Boxer Over 100 lbs Most Courageous Bout of the Night Special Tribute Award

Direct link from Danny Long to John L Sullivan with 15 champs

By Bobby Franklin Danny Long fought Bobby Czyz Czyz fought Evander Holyfield Holyfield fought George Foreman Foreman fought Muhhamed Ali (Ali also fought Patterson and Liston who fought each other and Patterson fought Johansson).

Ali fought Archie Moore (Only man to fight Ali and Marciano) Moore fought Rocky Marciano The Rock fought Joe Louis Louis fought Jack Sharkey (Sharkey was the only man to fight Louis and Dempsey) Sharkey fought Jack Dempsey Dempsey fought Jess Williard Williard fought Jack Johnson Johnson fought Jim Jefferies Jefferies fought Jim Corbett Corbett fought John L. Sullivan 15 fighters removed from Sullivan.

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A Few Irish Blessings to enjoy…

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South Boston Citizen’s Associatiom Bowl-O-Rama

“May you live as long as you want, And never want as long as you live.”

“May your neighbors respect you, Troubles neglect you, The angels protect you, And Heaven accept you.”

“If you’re lucky enough to be Irish …you’re lucky enough!”

“May the Irish hills caress you.

May her lakes and rivers bless you.

May the luck of the Irish enfold you.

May the blessings of Saint Patrick behold you.”

“May you be in Heaven a full hour before the devil knows you’re dead.”

“Health for life to you, A wife of your choice to you, A child every year to you, And the light of heaven after the world for you.”

“May the Good Lord take a liking to you, but not too soon!”

And, of course, the most famous Irish blessing we know: “May the road rise to meet you.

May the winds be always at your back.

May the sun shine warm upon your face.

And the rains fall soft upon your fields.

And until we meet again, may God hold you in the hollow of his hands.”

´ Slainte!

Happy St. Patrick’s Day to our friends and neighbors, from the MCCA. DAVID M. GIBBONS EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

@MassConvention /MassConvention massconvention.com

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THURSDAY, MARCH 15, 2018

South Boston Catholic Academy News Celebrating Dr. Seuss’ Birthday!

On March 2, the South Boston Catholic Academy students in K1, K2 and First Grade celebrated Dr. Seuss Birthday. The children in the First Grade listened to an article about Dr. Seuss and wrote facts on the hat they made.

Then, they played Green Eggs and Ham Tic Tac Toe with their spelling words.

Dr. Seuss’ real name was Theodor Seuss Geisel, and it is the perfect time to reflect on his books. Dr. Seuss’s books have had an unwavering impact on so many people young and old. Dr. Seuss was born in 1904 and this year, he’d be turning 114. Dr. Seuss is gone, but he’ll be remembered forever, for his work and for how he inspired children everywhere.

South Boston Catholic Academy is an academically rigorous, supportive Catholic Elementary School Accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEAS&C). South Boston Catholic Academy is currently accepting applications for all classes PreK-Grade 6. We have Before School and After School Programs available and have small class size; high acceptance rate to Parochial, Private and Boston Exam Schools. For additional information about South Boston Catholic Academy, please visit our website at www.sbcatholicacademy.org or call 617-268-2326. We also, offer tours weekly on Tuesday at 9 a.m. or by appointment, to schedule a school tour, please email Mrs. Jamie Brown, Assistant Principal, at j.brown@sbcatholicacademy.org.

SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM

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Councilors McCarthy & Flynn Call For Hearing Over Hospital Merger

Boston Cit y Councilors Tim McCarthy and Ed Flynn a nnounced la st week that they have called for a hearing regarding the proposed 13 hospital merger of Caregroup, Inc., the parent company of Beth Israel Deaconness Medical Center, and La hey Hea lth System. If approved, the merger would be the largest in the history of Massachusetts. Moreover, B et h Israel-L a he y He a lt h

would control 1 in 3 hospitals i n e a ster n M a s s ac hu s e t t s a nd bec ome t he big ge st health provider in the region.

The Department of Public He a lt h ha s rec om mended approval of this merger, while the Health Policy Commission and Attorney General’s office have yet to weigh in on the matter.

McCarthy said, “As City Councilors, it is our job to protect and give voice to our

Local Meeting Approves Gatey School Demo

by Rick Winterson On Thursday evening, March 8, parishioners and other interested parties gathered in Gate of Heaven Church Lower Hall to review and discuss the proposed demolition of the Gate of Heaven School building. This would make way for increased paid parking next to Gate of Heaven Church, along with various amenities along the west wall of the Church – an alternate that had been discussed for several months, and which was aimed primarily at preserving Gate of Heaven Church as an active place of worship.

Thoma s Rya n Design Associates of Waltham, the architects who designed the area

left by the school demolition, led the discussion. They presented several renderings of how the proposed demolition and renovation would appear after its completion. Other than a few questions, the presentation was well-received, meriting tacit approval from all those attending.

Because of the age of the School building, the next step in the demolition approval process – a public hearing in front of the Boston Landmarks Commission – was held on Tuesday, March 13.

The final approvals and issuance of documentation is expected in time to carry out the demolition and subsequent landscaping renovations later this year.

The parishioners meet on plans for the Gate of Heaven School building.

most vulnerable constituents.

This merger may or may not have a detrimental effect on our most fragile residents. Therefore I believe that it is necessary to hear from the experts and those impacted before any decisions are f inalized.”

Flynn said, “In recent years, there was signif icant concern from state officials, antitrust specialists and consumer advocates related to potential hospital mergers. At that time, public discussion centered on the impact a potential merger would have in terms of increasing market power, the ability to negotiate with insurance companies and raising health care spending.

Although this decision is under the purview of the Attorney General, the Department of

Public Health and the Health Policy Commission, I believe it is our obligation as elected officials to allow the public to weigh in and share their concerns as well.”

“It is my hope that this hearing will allow me to learn more about how this merger would impact Tufts Medical Center and local community health centers in my district and their ability to provide access to health care for middle a nd low-income re sident s, communities of color, our seniors a nd the disabled.”

If you would like to provide feedback or comments, ple a s e c ont a c t C ou nci lor Flynn’s of f ice at 617- 6353203 or Ed.Flynn@Boston.

Gov or Councilor McCarthy’s office at 617-635-4210 Timothy.

Mc C a r t hy @B o s t on . g ov.

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Maurice Fitzpatrick: A Conversation on John Hume

At The Edward M. Kennedy Institute

By Richard Campbell

Writer and filmmaker Maurice Fitzpatrick was introduced by several speakers this past Monday night at the EMK Institute with stories of their forefathers who filled in the mingling history between famous Boston Irish Americans and John Hume, the politician and peacemaker from Derry, Ireland, who is the subject of Fitzpatrick’s recently released book and movie. Matthew Kennedy, the son of Joe Kennedy II, shared comments about the significance of Boston politicians in association with John Hume. Aiden Hume, John Hume’s son, commented upon the relationship between Ted Kennedy and his father, and focused upon John Hume’s life long quest for peace in Northern Ireland, and recent struggles with dementia. UMass professor Tom O’Grady, who moderated the discussion, detailed Fitzpatrick’s journey in researching the book from the perspective of their personal relationship over the years, and then fleshed out the history of both projects by asking the author pointed questions.

For those not so familiar with this time period of Irish history, from the 1960’s until the 1990’s Northern Ireland was embroiled in a conflict known as “the troubles” in which Protestants and Catholics battled it out killing thousands of people. The significant reduction to the conflicts in 1998 was brought about with what is called the Good Friday Agreement. Life became easier in Northern Ireland, as the peace achieved brought a flood of capital in tourism and business to its shores. There are only a few who figure so large in the Irish peace process as John Hume; who not only seemed to set the frame of reference for reconciliation needed to bring peace, but had persistently stewarded the Northern Ireland peace process at critical moments for years when it looked like all was lost. As a founding member of the SDLP, Social Democratic and Labor Party, he became a beloved national hero, and not insignificantly: shared the Nobel prize with David Trimble, and was awarded the Gandhi Peace prize for his efforts. It is no wonder: for if ever there were a set of intractable opponents, the two major sides of

the Irish troubles certainly fit the bill.

Aiden Hume and Matthew Kennedy mentioned the rather famous telephone call in 1972 when Ted Kennedy called his father at his home, and John Hume thought he was being put on by some friends. Ted Kennedy wanted to know the true story of what was happening on the ground in Northern Ireland, and was told Hume was the most reliable source.

It was the beginning of a friendship and a concerted effort by Hume to bring about a peaceful resolution- to revoke the idea that the violence of the IRA was the way to go- and to bring the cause of a United Ireland to the forefront of international relations. As an independent Nationalist, Hume is given a great deal of credit for helping to mobilize many people across the pond, most notably the “four horsemen” Ted Kennedy, Tip O’Neill, Daniel Patrick Moynihan, and Hugh Carey- as well as presidents from Carter to Clinton to provide economic assistance and political clout. While some would underrate the necessity of this US strategy, history clearly shows Hume’s political skill in bringing power to bear upon the peace process was quite an accomplishment. More than a few speakers emphasized the role of long strategy meetings between O’Neill, Kennedy and Hume, that removed impasses and paved the road to a more peaceful Ireland. There was not the time to discuss the current problems in Northern Ireland that might threaten a sustained peace. The fact that politicians in both Ireland and America were once capable of sitting down with their opponents to hammer out deals for the common good of their nations (in contrast to today) was a theme amplified by comments and questions during the talk.

It is interesting to note in the season of South Boston’s St. Patrick’s Day parade that in Northern Ireland there are over 4,000 parades a yearrepresenting both the Catholic and Protestant sides of the nation. If we think our parade draws controversy, we would be well to examine some of the issues that arise in Northern Ireland during their parades. Add to this fact that there are five major political parties in Northern Ireland: Sinn Féin, Ulster Unionist Party, the DUP, Social Democratic and Labour Party,

and Alliance Party, and one can see how conflict resolution is complicated.

From hunger strikes to challenging unjust laws, arm twisting and cajoling, holding discussions with all sides of the conflict- sometimes in secret- Hume’s career was one of such tireless advocacy for peace that even many of his opponents pay tribute to him. Fitzpatrick’s book “John Hume in America from Derry to DC, is followed by the author with his film: “In the Name of Peace” on the same subject.

The film will play at Somerville Theater Irish Film Festival on March 25th. In the film, Fitzpatrick documents the long road to peace, and got former presidents to go on record revealing a timeline of negotiations. When questioned by Tom O’Grady about the difficulty of getting access to presidents to interview them about their relationship with John Hume, Fitzpatrick suggested that it wasn’t easy, but that the mere mention of Hume’s name opened doors. In some sense you get the feeling that Fitzpatrick wishes to make sure history doesn’t forget John Hume, as other figures in the conflict have drawn more media attention, especially since Hume’s retirement and illness.

Fitzpatrick appeared to be a very down to earth person, having

studied at Trinity College, Dublin, has taught in Germany and Japan, and is intrinsically talented in multiple fields.

He also seems to know the importance of documentary film in preserving history. When asked about how he decided to become so invested in John Hume’s story, he said it was because it was so interesting, but also that it was “virgin soil”-that no one had really told the story of Hume’s relationship to his American counterparts. He didn’t fail to mention pillars of Irish literature, John Millington Synge, Seamus Heaney, and Brian Friel, and their impact on his work and contemporary culture. This kind of documentary work in either book or film form, I suspect is a bit risky in America these days, as no doubt we live in a culture that is essentially ahistorical, and rarely attends to our own history, let alone Ireland’s. The word across the pond is that both the film and the book have been well received, and the Institute’s timely occasion underscored the relations we Americans still have with Ireland. The EMK Institute is planning an event on the Good Friday Agreement on Thursday, April 5, 2018, 5:30 PM, which will feature a keynote address by Senator George Mitchell. Éirinn go Brách!

SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM THURSDAY, MARCH 15, 2018

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Aiden Hume speaks of his father’s life long quest.

Professor Tom O’Grady with Author Maurice Fitzpatrick

Matthew Kennedy remembers Senator Kennedy.

Come Hear the Author Speak!

Adams Street Branch of the Boston Public Library Presents

Student Artwork in Kennedy Institute Lobby

Author Gerard Doherty Presentation Free – All Welcome, March 19, 2018 • 2 pm Florian Hall - 55 Hallet St, Boston, MA 02122

To Register Call

617-436-6900 ext 1008

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THURSDAY, MARCH 15, 2018

SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM

Public Art: Three in Seaport

by Rick Winterson

S

pring is here.

The St. Patrick’s/Evacuation Day Parade, preceded by all of the various activities connected with that key South Boston event, is just a few action-filled days from now. Passover begins at sundown on Good Friday. Eastertide is in full f low, culminating on early Sunday morning, April 1.

What about the recent storm and its wind-driven tides? Well, you know that old bit of folk wisdom: “When March comes in like a lion, it goes out like a lamb.” We’re coming out of the leonine half of March; the better, gentler half is upon us.

Spring in 2018 is the season for a walk. And the Seaport is a marvelous place to take one. Don’t count on the proposed gondola to be installed. That’s nothing more than an impractical dream right now; it will take many years to come true. While you are waiting for your gondola to appear, be sure to walk by and take long looks at three significant art installations in the Seaport area. They are warm, playful, colorful, eye-catching, and good humored – in other words, they share all the qualities of spring.

And on top of all those other qualities, the three of them are definably cool.

Start with “Boston Is the New Boston”, a light mural that looks down from the second level in Courthouse Square, just around the corner from the

Silver Line’s Courthouse Station. It’s red etched with a light, contrasting blue; note the three-dimensional effect of the lettering. The words make a visual pun that you may miss of you read them too quickly. To symbolists, these words could signify that Boston is and has always been “New”, ever since its historic pre-Revolutionary founding. The creator, the Half Studio of Portugal, labels their street artworks as “interventions”.

Next, walk along Seaport Boulevard and around District Hall.

You’ll sight a number of installations called “Quarks” by local artists Claudia Ravaschiere and Michael Moss. These consist of brightly colored balls, about the size of billiard balls, clustered and fastened to trees and light poles. “Quarks” are abstract in nature, but when you examine them more closely, eye-catching patterns emerge from random groupings. You’ll see colors grouped in recurring threes; look for the shyly, slyly mysterious white spheres. Readers of “Finnegan’s Wake” and quantum physicists will recognize the word “quarks” – “Three quarks for Mushter Mark”. And quarks, along with gluons, leptons, and the recently detected Higgs boson, make up all the matter in the universe (as far as we know).

Finally, walk by “Dear Seaport”, an interactive, communal assembly on a 24-foot wall set in the green space on Boston Wharf Road. Mailboxes gathered 1,000 one-word responses for “Dear Seaport”, describing the participants’ feelings about the Seaport.

These were then placed on magnets and transferred to the “Dear Seaport” wall to create an assembly that’ll be displayed through this coming summer.

Stop by and rearrange the sentiments,

if you wish. The most frequent oneword feeling was “happy” – submitted more than twice as many times as the second-place word, “home”. And bring your basketball. Try your hand

“Quarks”, a light pole installation by Claudia Ravaschiere and Michael Moss.

“Dear Seaport”, a communal installation generated by the Seaport itself.

Tree-mounted “Quarks”, an installation by Claudia Ravaschiere and Michael Moss.

SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM THURSDAY, MARCH 15, 2018

Working together to address transportation needs of South Boston residents

T MBTA C ity Point B us

ark morial P

er Me

J. Butl Thomas

City Point Bus Termin

al

Keep cars and trucks out of the South Boston neighborhood – and preserve 7,000 jobs in the Port of Boston. That’s our commitment: to be a good neighbor and an economic engine for Massachusetts.

• Road safety study along Day Boulevard is underway and $2.5 million has been earmarked to make improvements to improve safety and operations.

In the coming months, Massport will complete construction of an $85 million, multi-modal South Boston Waterfront Transportation Center with 1,550 shared public parking spaces. The project marks another milestone in a collaborative, multi-year effort to address the transportation needs of the South Boston community and keep cars out of residential South Boston.

• The City Point Bus Terminal has been modernized at a cost of $800,000 to better serve the 650 passengers who depend on the facility every day.

We wanted to keep the community updated on the progress of the South Boston Waterfront Sustainable Transportation Plan under the leadership of the MassDOT Secretary of Transportation, Massachusetts Highway Administrator, MBTA General Manager, City of Boston Transportation Commissioner and Massport.

• The MBTA has added buses to Routes 7 and 9 in order to increase capacity, improve reliability and reduce overcrowding on this heavily used route. As a result of this $2.1 million investment, customer complaints declined by 80% in September.

• The $75 million Thomas J. Butler Freight Corridor is complete.

The dedicated roadway and bridge for Conley Container Terminal keeps 500 container trucks off East First Street and Summer Street every day. The project includes a sound barrier wall along East First Street, and 95 on-street parking spaces for residents.

• $6 million Summer Street reconstruction has been authorized

by MassDOT and the City of Boston in the Fort Point neighborhood from Dorchester Avenue to the West Service Road, and will provide better protection and enhancements for pedestrians and bicyclists and improved roadway drainage.

• Green space has been expanded by Massport’s 4.5 acre Thomas J. Butler Memorial Park which includes South Boston’s first dog park.

• Vehicle emissions are down at Conley Container Terminal by replacing 60-year old trucks with clean diesel vehicles. In addition, truck idling time has been reduced by 40,000 hours.

The South Boston Waterfront Sustainable Transportation Plan is a collaboration of Massport, MassDOT, the City of Boston and the Massachusetts Convention Center Authority.

Our progress would not be possible without the continued guidance and support of South Boston community members and their elected officials, former State Senator Linda Dorcena-Forry, State Representative Nick Collins, former Boston City Councilor Bill Linehan, Councilors Michael Flaherty and Ed Flynn, the Governor Baker Administration, the Mayor Walsh Administration and the business community.

CITY of BOSTON DEPARTMENT of TRANSPORTATION

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THURSDAY, MARCH 15, 2018

SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM

SHSB’s “Shamrock Splash” Draws 200 Splashers

Save the Harbor/Save the Bay (SHSB) has an enviable record of success. Its 2017 record for clean water here in South Boston was perfect – perfect as in “no beach closures whatever during last year”.

So it was only fitting that SHSB came to South Boston for its Annual “Shamrock Splash” last Sunday.

They knew the waters at the Curley Center and on M Street Beach would be squeaky clean.

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, MARCH 15, 2018

19

Public Meeting

55 WEST FIFTH STREET WEDNESDAY, MARCH 21 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM

147 WEST 4TH STREET Mass Bay Credit Union 2nd Floor South Boston, MA 02127

Thomas J. Butler Memorial Scholarship for $5,000

PROJECT PROPONENT: Boston Real Estate Capital PROJECT DESCRIPTION: The revised project consists of the construction of a six story, mixed-use building that will include 50 residential rental units, 44 off-street parking spaces, and approximately 1,485 square feet of retail space.

mail to:

phone: email :

RAUL DUVERGE

Boston Planning & Development Agency One City Hall Square, 9th Floor Boston, MA 02201 617.918.4492 raul.duverge@boston.gov

CLOSE OF COMMENT PERIOD: 3/30/2018

BostonPlans.org

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 27, 2018. For more information on the Thomas J. Butler Memorial Scholarship, including an application checklist, please visit: www.massport.com/scholarships.

@BostonPlans

Teresa Polhemus, Executive Director/Secretary

David W. Davis Memorial Internship College juniors and seniors who reside in the City of Boston and are interested in applying for the David W. Davis Memorial Internship 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.

The David W. Davis Memorial Internship is a 13-week paid public service opportunity at Massport and is awarded annually to an exceptional junior or senior in college. Internship applications must be received by Massport no later than 5:00 p.m. on Friday, April 27, 2018. For more information about the David W. Davis Memorial Internship including an application checklist please visit: www.massport.com/internship.

Lowell L. Richards III 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 27, 2018. For more information on the Lowell L. Richards III Memorial Scholarship, including an application checklist, please visit: www.massport.com/scholarships.

SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM THURSDAY, MARCH 15, 2018 THE PRINT EDITION

Beannachtaí na Féile Pádraig oraibh!

Happy St. Patrick’s Day from

your friends at Rooney Real Estate

700 East Broadway • South Boston • 617-269-1000 • Rooney-Re.com

Jackie Rooney South Boston’s premier real estate agent

Call today for a free market analysis on your home!

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