THE PRINT EDITION
THURSDAY, JUNE 7, 2018
VOLUME XIX- ISSUE 61
Bio International 2018 Conference Draws Thousands of Innovators to BCEC By Richard Campbell Even if one is involved deeply in this massive industry, keeping track of the sheer number of innovations and research in the biomedical and life sciences fields would be an impossible task, so industry insiders attend conferences to find out about the latest in research and development. This week starting June 4th the Boston Convention and Exhibition Center BCEC is hosting a four day, no holds barred Bio International 2018 Conference bringing thousands of industry leaders from companies specializing in fields from drug manufacturing to genomics, bioengineering and cell therapy to digital and brain health, to a multitude of spinoff technologies from around the world. The Boston / Cambridge role in these industries ranks at the top of the world, and this kind
of event was most likely what the original planners for the BCEC had in mind when the center was built. There are 1,800 pavilions from all fifty states and almost every major international nation as well. This is a conference that originally started 25 years ago that has grown so that this year a judge from the Guinness World Book of Records was on hand to see it break the record for largest meeting of its kind. A stroll through the BCEC alerts one to the fact that every nationality and level of participant was on display, from veteran researchers to young professionals, and beginning students receiving biogenius awards. The Massachusetts pavilion entitled “The State of the Possible” included the heavy hitters from the Seaport like Vertex, and Cambridge educational Continued on Page 10
Now You Don’t Have To Be a Millionaire – To Get A Great Rate! MASS BAY CERTIFICATE SPECIAL
2.25%
17-MONTHS
APY*
ONLY $500 MINIMUM!
Fireworks Display Over Columbia Point Join us for a fireworks display over Boston Harbor June 8th The Boston Harbor fireworks display will be hosted on Friday, June 8, beginning at 9:30 p.m. Fireworks will be launched from Columbia Point, displayed over Dorchester Bay and viewable from beaches along Dorchester and South Boston. The fireworks display is a part of a series of public activations and celebratory events being offered as the United States Conference of Mayors (USCM) Annual Meeting is hosted in Boston this week: www.usmayors.org
At Mass Bay, you don’t have to tie up your entire life savings to get a great rate! Stop by any branch to open an account and experience better banking – for all!
Easy!
massbaycu.org
(617) 269-2700
147 West 4th Street, South Boston 409 D Street, Seaport Federally insured by NCUA
EQUAL HOUSING
OPPORTUNITY
*APY = Annual Percentage Yield. Offer available for new funds and is not valid on funds already on deposit at Mass Bay Credit Union. Minimum balance to open and earn APY is $500. The APY for all Certificates assumes the dividends will remain in the account until maturity. Withdrawal of dividends prior to maturity will reduce earnings. Certificates are subject to penalty for early withdrawal. Fees may reduce earnings. Rate is effective May 22, 2018. This is a limited time offer and is subject to change without notice. Other rates and terms available.
2
THURSDAY, JUNE 7, 2018
SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM
Airbnb Alternate Bills Head Through State & City Meat Grinders By Richard Campbell The various short-term revenue bills going through a series of transformations on the city and state levels have been accompanied by a fair amount of revision, delay and controversy. When Airbnb went after City Councilor Michelle Wu with a mass email campaign in mid-April, they not only got their facts wrong about the proposed restrictions on Airbnb services in Boston, but they brought a flurry of support from other city councilors for Ms. Wu’s positions. The company’s twitter criticism and mischaracterization of Councilor Wu’s well-deserved reputation as an advocate for the residents of Boston (suggesting that she was in the pocket of the hotel industry) aside: Airbnb officials incorrectly stated that the bill proposed a thirtyday cap on short term rentals. The twitter war was just the beginning. Councilors Ed Flynn and Lydia Edwards and mayor Walsh defended Councilor Wu, and though the first city proposal for restrictions on Airbnb was withdrawn by the mayor early in the year, the state bill 4314 passed the House on March 22, by a vote of 118-30, signaling the beginning of a longer process. Ed Flynn tweeted: “I stand with my friend & colleague @ wutrain (Michelle Wu) when it comes to reasonable regulations for short-term rentals. We must look to protect our housing stock from “investor units” and displacement of residents, as well as addressing public safety & quality of life issues.” Though the PR machine for Airbnb hardly acknowledged the mistake, they continue to try to influence the various bills in process. The real question is what effect Airbnb-like investor units will have upon the housing shortage in Boston, or the price of rents is more difficult to assess. It might be said that the city council doesn’t always agree on everything, but outside interests should be careful when they attempt to back door lobby by denigrating one of its members. It can be clearly seen since then that both the city and
state officials are in the majority favoring some sort of revenue gathering from short-term rentals. Though the Massachusetts State House seems to have been handled a little more adroitly by the short-term rental interests, the complexity of the issues revolving around revenue and classifications of types of housing has not made for easy resolutions. At issue is whether and how owners of properties will pay taxes or one-time fees for the privilege renting out their property in hotel like fashion. Whether the temporary rental system is detrimental to neighborhoods by increasing rents and making scare rental property unavailable to Boston residents is more difficult to determine. Besides these thorny issues, is how much revenue the state and local authorities can expect to squeeze out of this new internet-based industry. Like its ride hailing cousins, Lyft and Uber, who encountered problems with traditional hackney cab service regulations, Airbnb and Home Away see themselves as intermediaries, facilitating small business relationships as a way to avoid being treated like regular hoteliers. The fact of the matter is that all the New England states except Massachusetts have already been collecting revenue from subscribers to these services, so the various requests by both the cities of Boston and Cambridge, along with the state, are not anomalies. The new House bill would create three classes of Airbnb hosts: a residential host, (taxed at 4%) defined as anyone who owns a building and is renting one or two units, an investor host, (taxed at 5.7%) who own multiple units up to five, and a professionally managed host (taxed at 8%) who owns six or more units. The new house bill proposed separate tax levels are lower than the existing standards for hotel tax rates. There isn’t a lot of evidence on this issue, but the suspicion by several sources based on other national locations, is that the displacement effect is more worrisome than any influence on the already premium rental
prices in Boston. The provision for local municipalities to add on their own taxes, and limitations on the investor class of the model are sticking points for the shortterm rental industry- but are seen as only fair by traditional hotel industries who adhere to stricter regulations all around. The Senate bill S.2400 is different than the House bill passed with a vote of 31-6. In that version the state would impose existing hotel taxes on temporary rentals, with the option for communities to impose local excise taxes. It defines the various stakeholders in great detail. The final compromise bill has not been generated yet out of the meat grinder system of the Massachusetts State House. The estimated state tax revenue to be generated is marked at about $34.5 million, with local taxes being about $25 million annually. Perhaps in the realm of State budgets that doesn’t seem like much, but hotel taxes are a pretty easy thing to manage, and a lot less controversial than gambling or pot. These bills pit the Massachusetts Lodging Association and local officials against Airbnb type businesses in a battle royal. Paul Sacco, president of the Lodging Association, released a statement: “Even the taxation portion of their bill gives unique rights to Airbnb that no other company in the state is entitled to — taxation without verification. We hope that the conference committee will do more to protect residents and guests and ensure this $31 billion multinational corporation is accountable for paying its fair
share.” Airbnb officials called the proposal “onerous” and “burdensome”. It is realized that in between these larger groups are individual home owners who wish to make some income to offset the steep cost of living in Boston, (in a way that Airbnb’s founders did originally in San Francisco), who have been informally surveyed, but rarely weigh in on the public debate. This writer, in full disclosure, has used Airbnb in several other cities and found the service to be invaluable for low cost short term rentals when traveling. On the city level, Mayor Martin Walsh proposed a new ordinance that seems simpler on the surface with three different revenue generating options for temporary rentals. “Limited Share Unit” meaning a space inside a unit, would be taxed at $25.00, annual fee a “Home Share Unit” meaning an entire primary residence would be taxed at $200.00, annual fee, and an “Owner Adjacent Unit meaning a unit in a two or three family building can be rented for up to 120 days would be taxed at $200.00, annual fee. It is expected that between City Council deliberations, the Massachusetts State House bills, the delays coming to a conclusion are tied up as much with the meat grinder of political mechanisms as much as pressure for various stakeholders. Whatever the outcome of these separate movements, it appears that Airbnb may not be as successful lobbying in Massachusetts as it has been in other states.
SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM THURSDAY, JUNE 7, 2018
3
Tommy Noto: 2018 Community Hero by Rick Winterson Occasionally, South Boston Online runs into people who speak almost entirely about the contributions and efforts others put into the South Boston community. They don’t choose to talk about themselves. Instead, they talk about those who were good influences on them. Such a person is Tommy Noto – the 2018 recipient of the South Boston Collaborative Center’s “Community Hero Award”. The Award will be conferred on Tommy next Thursday evening, June 14, during the Collaborative’s Spring Fling at The Lawn on D, 6 to 11 p.m. We interviewed Tommy at the Paramount. During that interview, it became very clear that Tommy is a devoted family man. Well, actually, Tommy has two families. He’s married to Kristin (Labbe) from Milton, and they have two children – Guilianna (7) and Anthony (4). They have built a home near St. Brendan’s Church in Dorchester’s Adams Village district. Tommy was born and brought up in South Boston at the intersection of the K and Seventh Streets. That was his home for his first 33 years. During this interview, he frequently referred to the effect his own good family life had on his current activities. He especially praised his mother and father, Mary and Bobby Noto, for the way in which they
Tommy Noto - family man, Boston police officer, and the recipient of the 2018 Community Hero Award from the South Boston Collaborative Center (Thursday evening, June 14, 6 to 11, at The Lawn on D). brought up him, his brother Bobby, and his sister Paula. They were taught “to help others subtly, so people don’t know about it.” They taught Tommy and his sibs that helping to support a community is a team effort. One of Tommy’s favorite sayings, “There’s no ‘I’ in TEAM”, demonstrates that. Tommy is an Officer in the Boston Police Department. He has been in the BPD for 15 years, and now serves as a member of the BPD’s Gang Unit. When asked how he likes that particular duty, he replied, “I love it!” That reply sheds some light on his approach to dealing with others. He describes his work as “interacting and monitoring” and “guiding
young people in the right direction”. The staffing in the BPD Gang Unit (which is a citywide unit) is currently around 65 men and women – Tommy calls them “all great partners”. When asked about other influences, he talks about Brian Nee and the much-missed Joe “Dodo” Nee (for whom the Collaborative is named). Brian put in a word or two to persuade Tommy to accept the 2018 Community Hero Award,
even though Tommy felt that many others in the community deserved the Award more than he did. He refers to Dodo Nee and his many, many fundraising efforts as the finest possible example for all of us to follow. Tommy’s community concerns extend to cancer victims, addiction, homelessness, and veterans’ issues, as well as to the kids he sees in his work every day. The Collaborative’s Andy Ward says, “Tommy is a neighborhood guy who has stepped up to help others. He volunteers his time putting together events, reaching out to ask if help is needed. He never stops; he’s always a man in motion.” At the end of this interview, Tommy again mentioned how his folks taught him about helping people. Tommy is a great fan of community fundraising efforts, so make it a point to come and see him receive his Community Hero Award. Attend the Collaborative’s Spring Fling next Thursday evening, the 14th (6 to 11 p.m.). There’ll be entertainment by Dennis Taylor and complementary refreshments. And just as important, the locale will be The Lawn on D – South Boston’s favorite new playground!
4
THURSDAY, JUNE 7, 2018
SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM
Author Steve Ross Signs His Book: “From Broken Glass”
by Rick Winterson Two months ago, South Boston Online reviewed author Steve Ross’s autobiographical book “From Broken Glass” (our April 12 issue, page 11). We highly recommended it. In his book, Steve narrated two harrowing stories about himself – as a young boy cruelly enmeshed in the Holocaust for five years during World War II, and as a licensed Psychologist here in Boston after the war ended. He wrote his two stories in a gripping, parallel fashion, with episodes from both alternating and interlocking with each other.
At noon on Tuesday, June 5, in the classic Lecture Room at the Boston Atheneum (10 1/2 Beacon Street), Steve Ross was welcomed as an esteemed guest by 200 of his friends. He was there for a formal signing of his book as a “thank you” to everyone who had purchased it. A program preceded the actual signing. After a spoken welcome by the Atheneum’s Mary Warnement, the Head of Reader Services, Mayor Walsh gave some remarks. He described Steve as “humble”, and “a person who cared about life”. Past Mayor and Ambassador to the Vatican Ray Flynn told how he met Steve – after being cut by the Celtics’ Red Auerbach in favor of Larry Seigfried, he took a job as a Youth Worker with the City of Boston, where Steve already worked. Ray said, “I learned what an impact he (Steve) had.” The speaking portion of the Program concluded with remarks from Robert Trestan, Executive Director of the Anti-Defamation League in Boston. Much was made
And the signing of “From Broken Glass” begins, courtesy of Steve Ross. of Steve Ross’s critical leadership in establishing Boston’s iconic and notable Holocaust Memorial. A brief but artistically touching video then followed. Afterward, a panel discussion was formed by Michael Ross, Steve’s son; Glenn Frank, who
spent hours co-writing Steve’s book with him; and Brian Wallace, state Representative, an author himself, and a character in “From Broken Glass”. The program lasted about an hour, and then the signing began. It was a memorable event.
Brian Wallace and Ray Flynn, South Bostonians and friends of Steve Ross.
Mayor Walsh joins in the salutes to Steve Ross in the Atheneum.
And the signing of “From Broken Glass” begins, courtesy of Steve Ross.
The Atheneum’s Lecture Hall, with its Roman interior architecture.
SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM THURSDAY, JUNE 7, 2018 by Ray Flynn
Official Book Launch
From Broken Glass by Steve Ross with Glen Frank and Brian Wallace I remember as if it were yesterday walking the streets of Boston with Steve Ross as he told me stories about the horrendous conditions he had to suffer as a young boy growing up under the Nazis in his native Poland and in Germany. At the time, we both worked with many troubled young boys and girls in racially and economically divided Boston. Years later, while serving as State Representative and on the Boston City Council, I organized educational forums at Boston City Council Chambers and would invite a couple of hundred young high school students to witness a live remembrance of the Showa. Several survivors of the Holocaust would share their experiences while local Rabbis conducted solemn prayers and led us in hymns. Jewish neighbors from Brighton, the West End, Mattapan, Brookline and Sharon were moved to tears in the deeply solemn ceremony. Steve and his fellow survivors wore their concentration camp uniforms with the Star of David. Eli Wiesel sometimes attended and
shared stories with the young students. Following the formal ceremony, everyone stayed around to ask the survivors and historians questions. For years after, many of the students would say that they never heard about that horrible chapter in our history. One teacher even brought a Modern History book to the Forum, and pointed out where the Holocaust was barely mention in the students history book. Steve Ross was a major factor in educating these students. Over the years I have had numerous former students come up to me to talk about those moving and inspiring City Hall Forums. Steve and the survivors did a remarkable job in informing the young students about this ugly history of brutality and genocide in Europe. Years later when I was Mayor of Boston, my secretary told me that I have a request for you to meet with your old friend Steve Ross. When he walked through the big door in the Mayors Office I could see his eyes fill up and we embraced each other with an long and affectionate hug. We talked about the old days at the Southie Boys Club, Mattapan Hecht House, at Columbia Point where we worked helping kids stay in school, get out of reform school and even help get them in college. Steve
wore their needs and concerns on his sleeve whether he was talking to college executives about why no kids from South Boston were attending Brandeis University, why a young poor Roxbury girl couldn’t enter nursing school, or getting a neighborhood basketball team sneakers and uniforms so they could join the Summer Basketball League. But the Steve Ross Story doesn’t end there, as heroic as it was. At our City Hall meeting he had a special request. It was his dream for the City of Boston to build a Memorial to all who suffered horrendous pain and perished during the scourge of Hitlers brutality. We must never let people forget, he emotionally pleaded. I remembered back to those days we spent together watching him help good but potentially troubled kids stay out of trouble. Taking him by the arm we walked over to the hugh window in the Mayors Office that looks out the “Cradle of Liberty” and the “Birthplace of American Freedom,” Faneuil Hall, the Home of the Abolishment Movement, the Old State House on the Freedom Trail and the statute of Boston’s “Mayor of the Poor” James Michael Curley, like Steve a person deep immigrant roots. I told Steve that when I was chairman of the Mayor Curley Commission at the State House, we over came strong
Steve Ross, author of “From Broken Glass” opposition to have his memorial placed in the prestigious location on Congress Street. We’ll the Holocaust Memorial sends another powerful American message about courage and overcoming adversity which is the life story of Steve Ross and the Holocaust survivors. The Memorial and this book will be a reminder for future generations about the values and determination of all Americans. Brian Wallace and Glen Frank you did all Americans proud with this beautiful story and book. And Steve when ever I walk past the Holocaust Memorial, I will think about a simple immigrant boy who never gave up on himself, his heritage or his determination to help make life better for needy and deserving Americans. Steve taught kids to never give up, or lose hope.
Do you bank with impact?
Discover the connection between where you bank and the issues you care about. By choosing a bank whose business practices, social and environmental priorities align with yours, you put your money to work for you and for the issues you care about. Whether it’s workplace diversity, affordable housing for veterans, financial education for schools or supporting companies that may invest in the future of our environment, Dedham Savings customers positively affect these important issues simply by doing business with us. And that’s impact banking. Dedham
Needham
Norwood
Sharon
South Boston
5
636 East Broadway NMLS# 473990
Walpole
Westwood
6
THURSDAY, JUNE 7, 2018
Southie Family Fun Day June 2018 Well, after a spring season that lasted (at the most) for two short days over an April weekend, summer arrived in South Boston with a truly muggy heat wave in late May/early June. Taking full advantage of this arrival was the Annual Southie Family Fun Day, arranged and presented by the always-energetic MOMS Club of South Boston. The locale was once again in Marine Park, from the Park bandstand along Farragut Road over to Day Boulevard. And who could ever estimate how many came, when the kids were running around like they were. Hundreds, and perhaps a thousand or more, showed up. The entertainment began with Ms. Sarah Gardener – “Music with Sarah” – who was helped by numerous young people on ukuleles and even a glockenspiel (with mallets). Toe Jam Puppet Band followed Sarah with two sessions, and the Family Fun Day finale featured Bonaparte
the Magician. DJ JIM provided a sound system, recorded music, and many lawn games. Local participants included Ultimate Self Defense, the HUB Church and the Woods School of Irish Dance. Supporting the MOMS Club’s Southie Family Fun Day were: South Boston Community De ve lopment Fou nd at ion, William Higgins Insurance, Boston NAPS LLC, Aloft Hotel (the Seaport District), Elements Hotel (the Seaport District), The Broadway, Dedham Savings Bank, American Provisions, Joseph’s Bakery, celebRAEtions, Bringing Up Baby, Wears & Wares, Ethos Learning Center, City Councilorat-large Annissa Essaibi-George, City Councilor Ed Flynn, and David Biele (state Representative candidate) – 16 of the best! Thank you. It was a lot of fun, especially for South Boston’s (very) young people.
SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM
SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM THURSDAY, JUNE 7, 2018
7
Retiring of the Flag
STEM Expo A Success Pictured aboove is a photo of Councilor Flynn with (left to right) FAA employee, Lisa Wieland, Massport Port Director, Ed Freni, Massport Director of Aviation, Lt. Governor Karyn Polito, Massport CEO Tom Glynn, Kenn Turner, Director of Diversity & Inclusion/Compliance at Massport, and FAA employee at the 2018 Massport STEM Expo at the Delta Hangar at Logan Airport on Wednesday, May 30th.
On June 14th, 2018 there will be a flag retirement ceremony at Fort Independence, Castle Island, South Boston. This ceremony will be conducted by the Scottish American Military Society at 11:00 a.m. Also participating in this ceremony will be the Thomas Fitzgerald Post FVW, the Paul J. Sanders Post American Legion and the Castle Island Association. The Color Guard for this ceremony will be the Excel High School Army JROTC. Also in support will be the DCR Staff o Fort Independence.
DRIVING HERE IS TOUGH ENOUGH. FINANCING YOUR CAR SHOULDN’T BE. Special Limited Time Offer
New Auto Loan Used Auto Loan Rates as low as
Rates as low as
2.24% APR* 3.49% APR**
Options for New, Used and Refinanced Vehicles, including terms up to 84 months for new cars! Plus, you can take the manufacturer rebates and still get a great rate by doing your financing at City of Boston Credit Union. Apply online at cityofbostoncu.com You can choose us if you live or work in Norfolk or Suffolk County Boston City Hall | Canton | Dorchester | South Boston | West Roxbury 617-635-4545 | Cityofbostoncu.com * A.P.R. = Annual Percentage Rate. Rate for new automobile/motorcycle loans only. Based on 2.24% Annual Percentage Rate monthly payment equals $21.80 per thousand borrowed for maximum 4 year term, maximum loan amount $75,000.00. This rate based on 20% downpayment and current credit score of 760 or above. Other rates available based on downpayment, term and credit score. Other guidelines may apply. ** A.P.R. = Annual Percentage Rate. Rate for used automobile/motorcycle loans only. Based on 3.49% Annual Percentage Rate monthly payment equals $29.30 per thousand borrowed for maximum 3 year term, maximum loan amount $50,000.00. This rate based on 10% downpayment and current credit score of 760 or above. Other rates available based on downpayment, term and credit score. Other guidelines may apply. All loans are subject to credit approval. Must be eligible for City of Boston Credit Union membership to apply. A.P.R.s effecive as of 5/1/18 and are subject to change without notice.
8
THURSDAY, JUNE 7, 2018
SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM
Dalton and The Sheriffs Come to Southie by Rick Winterson Country & Western in South Boston? Why, certainly! Every Tuesday night, that is. Plan a Tuesday drop in/ hang out downstairs in the Supper Club at Capo Restaurant – 443 West Broadway, not very far from where Blinstrub’s sat for so many years. Combine eating (varied Italian/American dishes), with drinking (inventive designer cocktails), and original C&W (“Dalton and The Sheriffs”). And you know what? At Capo, there’s no admission or cover. Just show up Tuesday evenings and enjoy. Let’s mention that Dalton and The Sheriffs’ performances contain mostly their own original music, from half or more up to the entire gig, depending on the gig’s length and audience responses. Why emphasize that fact? Two reasons – because audiences consistently ask them to play their own music, and Tuesdays at Capo bring you C&W by Dalton and The Sheriffs that you won’t hear anywhere else. In any medium! Dalton and The Sheriffs have built up an impressive track record lately. They perform four or five nights a week all around Boston.
bunch o’ the boys was whoopin’ it up, in the Malemute Saloon” – Dalton and the Sheriffs: Jon, Brian (himself), Jim, Sam – at CAPO every Tuesday evening. Weekends see them in New York, Rhode Island, and out on Nantucket. The group is very busy; they are making ripples that are rapidly becoming waves. They have opened for many nationwide C&W groups and have performed at the CMA Fest, which they will appear at again this summer. And yes, they’ve been to Nashville, where they recorded their first album, “After the Parade”. All 12 tracks on this album are original with them, and bear titles like “Cheap Guitars”, “You Ain’t Her”, and “Orion’s Belt”. Dalton and The Sheriffs is a quartet – Jonathan Silva (electric guitar), James Zaner (percussion), Sam Bouve (bass guitar), and lead vocalist Brian Scully (acoustic guitar, emphatic baritone). Think “classic” U-2 to begin with.
Think also of country music, primary-colored by rock. All four band members take part in the vocals; their instrumental work is outstanding. Jon could play electric guitar anywhere. Sam on bass and Jim on drums interact and play off each other, setting up rock-solid support for the group.
In conversations with Brian Scully, who composes much of the band’s music, he points to inf luences like Hootie & the Blowfish, as well as a West Coast group called Counting Crows, who are unfamiliar to this writer. Google them up; they’re iconic. Brian himself had been teaching in local public schools, ultimately resigning his position as Assistant Principal in order to take his music and performances full-time. Speaking for himself, he says, “I have no regrets. I’m lucky that folks come to our shows … I drop my kids off at school every morning. My wife is a partner in this so it makes (it) more of a life adventure.” So now you know: Country music, performed by Dalton and The Sheriffs, has indeed come to South Boston. Don’t miss them – see you Tuesday evenings at Capo.
Ironworkers Local 7 Endorses David Biele for State Representative
David Biele, a lifelong South Boston resident and local attorney running in the Democratic Primary for State Representative, has been endorsed by Ironworkers Local 7. Biele, a leader in many South Boston community-based organizations, has been earning strong support from organized labor, including a recent endorsement from Laborers Local 223. Biele will officially kick off his campaign next Thursday, June 14 at The Broadway, located at 726 East Broadway. Biele said, “I am honored to have Ironworkers Local 7 supporting my candidacy. Local 7 has deep roots and a rich history in our community, and I’m especially proud to have their backing.”
He continued, “Growing up in a union family taught me the value of hard work, quality jobs, and community engagement. As your State Representative, I will be a strong voice for organized labor, supporting job creation and economic opportunity in our neighborhoods, investing in our public schools, supporting our seniors and veterans, and giving the community a strong voice in government.” Biele is a lifelong resident of South Boston where he has been deeply engaged with local community-based programs. He serves as a board member of the South Boston Boys & Girls Club and has spent many years mentoring local youth through the TEAM Mentoring Program at the Labouré Center. He is also actively involved with Harry McDonough Sailing Center and the South Boston Special Kids and Young Adults. Biele was a longtime staffer to Nick Collins in his State Representative Office, working on policy, legislation, and constituent services. He is a graduate of Boston Latin School, Boston College, and Boston College Law School.
SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM THURSDAY, JUNE 7, 2018
9
South Boston Catholic Academy News Mrs. Nancy Carr, who has been Principal of South Boston Catholic Academy since its inception in 2009, has been asked to be Principal of her home parish school, St. Agatha Elementary School in Milton, and she has accepted the position and will be leaving us on June 30, 2018. Mrs. Carr has been a strong asset to students and faculty from her time as Principal of St. Brigid Elementary School and South Boston Catholic Academy. The children in her care were always her first priority. Along with her staff and faculty, her leadership brought our school to the strong position that it holds today. As Principal, she has always strived to lead the school with our motto in mind – making sure that we were a school based in our Catholic Faith, Family Values, and Academic Excellence. We have been blessed with her presence and leadership! We all wish Mrs. Carr the very best!
We welcome, Mrs. Helenann Civian, who will be the new Principal of South Boston Catholic Academy starting July 1, 2018. Mrs. Civian is the current Principal of Cathedral High School. She brings more than 23 years of educational experience to South Boston Catholic Academy. Mrs. Civian was Principal at Randolph Community Middle School, previous director of Expanded Learning Time for the Massachusetts 2020 Foundation, and an Adjunct Professor of Education at Northeastern University. She earned a doctorate in Educational Leadership from the Harvard University Graduate School of Education and both a Master of Education in Planning and Social Policy and a Bachelor of Arts in Education and Administration from Bridgewater State University. She also earned a Master of Education in Administration from American International College
New Prinicpal, Mrs. Helenann Civian with SBCA Students at the Walk-A-Thon.
NDEC to Hold Graduation Ceremonies on June 14 Notre Dame Education Center will hold its annual graduation ceremony on Thursday, June 14, at 7 p.m. at the Ironworkers Local 7 Hall, 190 Old Colony Avenue. The Center plans to graduate more than 50 students from its High School Diploma, High School Equivalency, and College and Career Pathways Programs. Mary Rose Durante, Esq., NDEC’s Executive Director and CEO said that graduation is just the “first step on the road to economic self-sufficiency” for many students. “Completing these educational requirements leads to further training in areas such as Office Skills and Technology, Healthcare Preparation, or Customer Service,” she noted. Founded in 1992, Notre Dame Education Center offers goal-driven education for adults and youth. Each year the Center welcomes more than 500 adult learners and provides quality instruction focusing on workforce readiness, high school equivalency preparation, and high school completion.
Principal, Mrs. Nancy Carr with Author Jerry Pallotta & the SBCA Students
and served as a fellow in Algebraic Thinking, Patterns and Functions at Rutgers University. She currently lives in Canton with her husband and loves spending time with her three children and their two dogs. Mrs. Civian is very excited about her new position at South Boston Catholic Academy and is looking forward to meeting with the faculty, staff, parents and children and
to the start of the new 2018-2019 school year. We welcome Mrs. Helenann Civian as the second Principal of South Boston Catholic Academy! There are still limited spots available for the 2018-2019 School Year. Please contact Mrs. Jamie Brown, Assistant Principal, at j.brown@sbcatholicacademy. org or phone 617-268-2326 to schedule a tour of the school.
10
THURSDAY, JUNE 7, 2018
Continued from Page 1
Biotech research from Harvard and MIT to companies clustered in Kendall Square- where 18 of the top 20 drug companies in the world reside. It also staged events of individual patient stories like Lauren Bombardier’s recounting of her journey dealing with cystic fibrosis, and the role Vertex has played in ground breaking research on the disease. The theme for this year’s Bio Convention is “Making History” which by any standard of the imagination, has been done by this industry already in just this past year alone. James Greenwood, President and CEO of Bio International gave an overview of the 25-yearold organization, its humble beginnings and growth to its present international status. He mentioned that 2017 was a banner year for Bio with the first FDA approved commercially available gene therapy, Novartis’s CAR-T treatment to treat a deadly form of childhood leukemia, which has the potential to bring remission to thousands of children who have not thus far responded to other therapies. When he said: “We don’t have to wonder what the
future looks like, because it is upon us,” he was not exaggerating in the slightest. The complexity and sheer quantity of technical achievement on display here shows we are truly in the Biotechnology Century. Governor Charlie Baker made a heart rending and pride filled speech starting with crediting local universities for their critical roles in developing Massachusetts as one of the biomedical capitals of the world that builds business and cures people. He noted that the original 650-million-dollar investment by the state has grossed Massachusetts 4.5 billion-an impressive figure to mention when people are running down the efforts of our state government. His pledged continued support for the industry with new initiatives was filled with personal reflections. He recounted how far the industry has come since football legend Boomer Esiason’s son Gunnar first struggled waiting for break through treatment for cystic fibrosis, and how later his family established the Boomer Esiason Foundation to fund research for a cure. In a world where hundreds of thousands of children’s lives have been impacted
SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM
positively by the field of biomedical research, there were a many personal success stories to testify about good fortunes of research- as well as a solemn recognition of a world of suffering awaiting cures from these professionals. The point here is this was a very technical conference that has a deeply human face. The very first patient cured from Gene therapy, Ashanthi DeSilva was on hand, all grown up, miraculously healthy looking as a result of her childhood cure planned in 1990 of severe combined immunodeficiency, SCID (called the bubble boy disease), which at the time which would have been a death sentence of the then four-year-old girl. The cure involved inserting the adenosine deaminase gene via retrovirus into the T lymphocytes of DeSilva, who has since then maintained her health through continued therapy. Ashanthi received the 2018 Bio History Maker Awarded from James Greenwood who said: “Ashanthi, you’ve not only made history, you’ve made a difference – every day for patients around the world. You’ve connected them with knowledge, resources and each other.” Good Morning America host Robin Roberts was the first Keynote Speaker who brought her own life story struggling with breast cancer in 2007 and then myelodysplastic syndrome in 2012 as a source of inspiration for all those dealing with life threatening health issues. She was interviewed about her life’s success in broadcasting as well as the ups and downs of various cures from chemotherapy to bone marrow transplants, (her sister was her donor) that would not have been possible without advanced research of people in the industry. Robert’s dialogue with James Greenwood was as striking for its candor as it was filled with amusing anecdotes to buffer the heart-breaking parts of her life drama. She offered stories about her family who supported her throughout her career from early beginnings as a country radio host on a 100-watt station, in Hattiesburg Mississippi to covering Wimbledon for ESPN, to becoming a member of the Good Morning America team, and meeting president Obama and befriending the first family. When asked about inclusion, she praised Bio International for their efforts in this manner but spoke strongly
about never using the race card in coming to achievements. Her family believed in the three D’s: “discipline, determination, and da Lord!” She spoke passionately of lessons she learned from her father, a Tuskegee Airman, and her mother, who made her feel she could achieve through hard work. Almost every story she told was fascinating in its own right. To quote: “We are not so much what we accomplish, but what we overcome.” Simply put, one could write an entire article about her life, and well, others already have! Featuring entertainers like Rob Riener and Diana Ross Bio plan to bring more personality and personal stories to the event as it continues. Jonathan Kraft from the Patriots organization gave a presentation on Biotech and Sports. The key sponsors in the category of include heavy hitters such as Abbvie. Amgen, Biogen, Bristol Meyers Squibb, Merck, Johnson & Johnson, Genetech, Sanofi, Lilly, Pfizer, and Abbie corporations among many others. There were the BioGENEius Challenge Awards for young high school scientists. Sajeev Kohli (11th Grade, Waterloo, On, Canada) was named the grand prize winner of the International BioGENEius Challenge, Shloka Janapaty (10th Grade, California), Sriharshita Musunuri (12 th Grade, Washington) and Tobias Stadelmann (12th Grade, Germany) were awarded highest honors. By tweeting #ChampionsofScience -you extend support to all of them. The sheer diversity of scientific discovery and invention represented in the learning sessions of this convention cannot be related in a meaningful way through an article. There were 18+ Tracks, Super Sessions, and Fireside Chats at BIO 2018, that tackled every conceivable related industry, and business practices that touched the field. One presentation this writer saw: “Genome Editing Explained,” was so detailed and carefully explained that the audience of attendees was in rapt attention. The huge impact of the Massachusetts biomedical community on this convention was revealed in the number of industry leaders in our midst who had their own stage, surrounded by pavilions. For more information see: .
SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM THURSDAY, JUNE 7, 2018
11
Keynote Speaker Robin Roberts shares life stories with audience.
Honorees of the BioGENEius Awards assemble with Seema Kumar presenting.
The Pharmalex International Crew
Massachusetts: State of the Possible Stage presents‌
Ashanthi de Silva receives Bio History Maker Award from Jim Greenwood.
Governor Charlie Baker offers heart felt praise to the attendees.
Montage of International Signs
Giant Detailed historical Displays of Bio.
12
THURSDAY, JUNE 7, 2018
SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM
“Still Life” at Midway
Erica Wisor, the daughter of Lisa Wisor-Serratore, speaks of her mother’s artwork, created while she serves a long term in prison.
By Rick Winterson It was a “Happening”! In the best, most expressive sense of that word. It was a highly successful joint effort as well – conceived and arranged by Mary Driscoll, the
Founder of “O.W.L.L.” (On With Living and Learning)), designed/ performed by collaborating artists, and located in the Midway Gallery and a studio-sized installation on the top floor of 15 Channel Center Street. The Fort Point Theatre Channel and many residents of 15 Channel Center Street were involved. This “Happening” opened to the public Thursday evening, May 17. A crowd of perhaps 200 people attended the opening. This “Happening” was/is entitled “More Than a Docket Number: Still Life”; it presents works of art by Lisa Wisor-Serratore. The focus of this “Happening” is triangular - it has three apexes: Ms. Wisor-Serratore herself, her art (some 30 drawings and one achingly despairing poem), and the empty space left by her complete absence from the “Happening’s” opening.
For you see, Lisa WisorSerratore is serving a long (!) 15-year prison term. This confines her to a women’s prison in Florida. Indeed, it confines her to a single, bleak cell in said prison, only relieved by mealtimes and an occasional walkabout. Lisa has served just four years of her 15-year term; the possibility of parole or a successful appeal ranges from slim to none. This is perhaps the overarching (underlying?) message of “More Than a Docket Number: Still Life”. Lisa’s mother and father, and her daughter, Erica Wisor, were at the “Happening” last week. In an impromptu interview, Erica emphasized that her mother’s offense, although real, was nonviolent. The circumstances clearly call for a more lenient sentence, as is the case with many other imprisoned women. Erica’s mother is now absent from normal life, with no rehabilitation aavailable when she gets out. As you are reading this, Erica herself is graduating
from Suffolk University – a jarring contrast to her mother’s situation. Yet Lisa Wisor-Serratore has found within herself the resources to become an artist. Take a long look at the examples we can post for you. She draws with remarkable skill, as well as possessing intuitive senses of line and color. Her poem*, with the same title as the “Happening”, although tragic, is a literary gem. In addition to the participants mentioned above, certain individuals deserve particular mention: Rick Dorff (lighting, sculpture), Joseph del Ponte (the “Happening’s” pianist), and Alicia Savage (installation) were collaborating artists. Alicia Savage donated her studio space for the f lat monotone installation that recreated a prison cell and Lisa’s whited-out life. *Also entitled “More Than a Docket Number: Still Life”. Her poem is posted in her exhibit at Midway Gallery – be sure to visit the exhibit yourself.
Mary Driscoll, founder of OWLL, welcomes those attending “More Than a Docket Number: Still Life”.
A room-sized installation/ sculpture, rendered in flat white, that (silently) echoes a prison cell’s out-of-sight, out-of-mind anonymity.
A poignant rendering of a small cell – and a life not lived (“no one is home”) – in a Florida women’s prison.
SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM THURSDAY, JUNE 7, 2018
Celebrating Women-Owned Small Businesses in Boston Boston City Councilor Annissa Essaili-George & Mayor Walsh welcom Small Business in Boston Boston City Councilor At-Large Annissa Essaibi-George welcomed 120 women small business owners to Bella Luna Restaurant and Milky Way Lounge in Jamaica Plain, a womenowned restaurant celebrating 25 years in business, for an evening ofnetworking, connecting, and recognizing Boston’s many thriving women & non-binary owned small businesses. The evening was co-sponsored by the Mayor’s Office of Woman’s Advancement and Women Entrepreneurs Boston (WeBos). Councilor Essaibi-George recognizes that there are many opportunities for women and men who work in big business to connect with one another but, rarely, are there events specifically for women small business owners. She noted, “As a small business owner, I think it is so important for us women to get together, talk and collaborate. When I talk with other women who own small businesses,
even if we’re not in the same business, the conversations about what’s working and not working for us are really, really important. I hope tonight’s gathering will activate conversations like that.” The evening included remarks from Megan Costello, Executive Director of the Mayor’s Office of Women’s Advancement, who noted that she was honored for the event to be her last official event with the City of Boston before she begins pursuing her graduate degree; an activity conducted by Bella Luna Restaurant and Milky Way Lounge owners, Carol Downs, Kathie Mainzer, and Megan Mainzer which allowed attendees to grasp how much they had in common with each other; and a resource table for the small business owners to share their marketing materials with one another. The overwhelming response and success of the evening has inspired Councilor Essaibi-George to begin planning and hosting similar events across the city throughout the rest of the year. PHOTO CREDIT: Ethie Al-Mahdi
13
14
THURSDAY, JUNE 7, 2018
AFFORDABLE HOUSING & DND RENTAL OPPORTUNITY Walker Park Apartments 67 & 80 Walnut Park, Roxbury, MA 02119
AFFORDABLE AND SUBSIDIZED HOUSING OPPORTUNITY Washington Columbia I, Waitlist Opening for 1&2 Bedroom 173 Columbia Rd, Dorchester, MA 02121
49 Affordable Units # of Units 1 3 2 2 10
Type 1 BR-Mobility Impairments 2 BR 2 BR-Mobility Impairments 3 BR 1 BR 1 BR Deaf/Hard of Hearing & Vision Impairments 2 BR 3 BR
2 23 6
Rent Income Based Income Based Income Based Income Based $1,132
Income Limit 30% AMI 30% AMI 30% AMI 30% AMI 60% AMI
$1,213
60% AMI
$1,456 $1,682
60% AMI 60% AMI
30% AMI $22,650 $25,890 $29,130 $32,340 $34,950 $37,530
Applications are currently being accepted for our 1 & 2 Bedroom waiting list. Washington Columbia I Apartments is a Section 8 subsidized development. All units have plank floors, full kitchen appliances and a centralized laundry room. Rent includes heat & hot water Maximum Income per Household Size (HUD 2018 limits) Household size 1 2 3 4
Maximum Income per Household Size (HUD 2018 limits) Household size 1 2 3 4 5 6
SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM
60% AMI* $45,300 $51,780 $58,260 $64,680 $69,900 $75,060
# of Units Type 55 1 BR 87 2 BR
30% AMI $22,650 $25,900 $29,150 $32,350
50% AMI $37,750 $43,150 $48,550 $53,900
Rent 30% of Income 30% of Income
Income Limit 50% AMI 50% AMI
Applications will be available beginning 05/14/2018
Applications are available 06/04/2018 through 07/06/2018. Applications may be picked up in person from the Management Office at 9 Wardman Road-Rear, Roxbury, MA 02119 Weekdays: Monday-Friday from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Evenings: Tuesday and Wednesday from 4 p.m. – 8 p.m. Saturdays: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. You may also request an application via email at walkerpark@winnco.com Informational Meeting 1: 06/06/2018, 6:00 PM (Wednesday) Urban Edge, 1542 Columbus Avenue, Roxbury, MA Informational Meeting 2: 06/20/2018, 6:30 PM (Wednesday) BCYF, 200 D Street, Boston, MA
You may request an application via email at washingoncolumbiaI@winnco.com Download the application from http://www.infoweb.org/Applications/Winn-WashingtonColumbiaI.pdf
Applications may also be picked up in person from the Management Office 173 Columbia Road, Dorchester, MA 02121 Weekdays: Monday-Friday from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Completed applications will only be accepted in person at the management office or by mail to the address on the application. Reasonable accommodations made. Applications will be processed in the order they are received.
Deadline for completed applications to be in lottery: 07/13/2018 Application must be submitted online or returned in person at the above address by 4:00 p.m., or mailed and postmarked by that day. Reasonable accommodations made.
Income and Assets limits apply. Use and Occupancy Restrictions apply. Preferences apply: 6 mobility accessible units
SELECTION BY LOTTERY Income and Assets limits apply. *Income minimums apply unless household has housing subsidy.
For more info or reasonable accommodations, call WinnResidential (617) 287-9580 / TTY/TDD: (800) 439-2370
Preferences apply: 5 accessible units (3 mobility impairments, 2 vision impairments and deaf/hard of hearing) Boston residency preference for 70% (34) of units, 5 units set aside for homeless households, 8 project-based MRVP units Use and Occupancy Restrictions apply: Minimum 1 per bedroom-Reasonable Accommodations made Walker Park is a smoke-free community For more info or reasonable accommodations, call WinnResidential at (617) 989-0168 / TTY/TDD: (800) 439-2370 For info about MRVP and units for households transitioning from homelessness, call HomeStart at (617) 542-0338
CONSULTATION SESSION Massport will host an information session on the Boston Logan International Airport 2016 Environmental Data Report (2016 EDR). A representative from the Massachusetts Environmental Policy Act (MEPA) Office will be on hand.
WHEN: WHERE:
Tuesday, June 12, 2018 6:00 PM Cathy Leonard-McLean Community Room Logan Airport’s Rental Car Center* 15 Transportation Way, East Boston, MA 02128
Please note that an electronic copy of the 2016 EDR is available on Massport’s website at http://www. massport.com/massport/about-massport/project-environmental-filings/logan-airport/. Additional copies of the 2016 EDR may be obtained by calling Mike Gove at (617) 568-3546 or emailing mgove@ massport.com during the public comment period. A 30-day public comment period for the 2016 EDR began on May 23, 2018, the publication date of the MEPA Environmental Monitor, and will end on June 22, 2018. Written comments may be submitted by June 22, 2018 to the following address: The Honorable Matthew Beaton, Secretary Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs Attn: MEPA Office EEA #3247 100 Cambridge Street, Suite 900 Boston, Massachusetts 02114 * The Cathy Leonard-McLean Community Room is located on the lower level of the Rental Car Center (RCC) Facility at Boston Logan International Airport. The RCC is accessible by the MBTA via Airport Station or the Silver Line and then by a Massport Shuttle Bus. Please allow additional travel time if using the MBTA. Parking for the RCC is available at the loading dock area on Porter Street and in the visitor spaces in front of the RCC.
massport.com
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, JUNE 7, 2018
South Boston Online - Events June 7th-10th Thursday June 7th, 5:00PM to 8:00PM- Industrious Boston Launch Party- Must RSVP, see website for details. Industrious Boston Launch Party – Grand Opening Party.
Thursday June 7th, 6:00PM – 10:00 PM Summer in the City, Live Music and Movies by Moonlight, FREE Summer in the City, Live Music and Movies by Moonlight at the Boston Harbor Hotel, dockside-these events run from Wednesday to Friday starting June 7th and running until August 31st. Categories: Pop Soul, Rat Pack, Blues and Movies. See website for details.
Thursday June 7th- Saturday June 9th 7:30 PM – Polka Dots: The Cool Kids Musical: Boston Center for the Arts Fee: $17-$25 The Cool Kids Musical: Boston Center for the Arts - Theater Arts for Boston Youth.
Friday June 8th, 12:30 PM to 1:30 PM- Boston Public Library Free Concerts in the Courtyard, Copley Branch, FREE Boston Public Library Free Concerts in the Courtyard - These concerts happen all week long, see website for details.
Friday June 8th, 8:30 PM to 10:00PM – Astronomy After Hours at the Museum of Science- FREE Astronomy After Hours at the Museum of Science Weather permitting, see the stars from the MOS.
Friday June 8th, 8:00 PM to 10:00PM- The Wiz at the Lyric Stage: Revival of 1970’s Musical- tickets start at $38.00 The Wiz at the Lyric Stage: Some half-price tickets are available, see website for details.
Saturday, June 9th, 12:00 PM to 2:00PM 1860’s Dress Up- Boston Harbor Islands- Georges Island, Free with Island boat ride. 1860’s Dress Up- Boston Harbor Islands- Georges Island, Meets on lawn of Fort Warren- Kid Friendly Event.
Saturday, June 9th, 1:00 PM to 4:00PM Major League Quidditch: Boston Night Riders Vs. New York Titans, FREE Major League Quidditch: Boston Night Riders Vs. New York Titans – Joe Moakley Park, South Boston Kid Friendly!
Saturday, June 9th, 3:00 PM to 5:00PM - Opening Reception for Artist Sergio Roffo at the Boston Guild of Artists- FREE Opening Reception for Artist Sergio Roffo at the Boston Guild of Artists 162 Newbury Street.
Saturday, June 9th Runs June 1st- June 14th, 4:15PM & 8:00PM 70 MM Movie Showing: 2001 Space Oddity, Somerville Theater, $15.00 Rare Print 70 MM Movie Showing: 2001 Space Oddity, Somerville Theater
Sunday June 10th, 11:00AM to 3:00PM - New England Aquarium Celebrates WORLD OCEAN DAY, FREE New England Aquarium Celebrates WORLD OCEAN DAY – Kid Friendly event.
Sunday June 10th, 6:00 PM to 8:00PM - Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis- Symphony Hall. Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis. - Tickets $45.00 to $95.00
Sunday June 10th, 6:00 PM to 7:00PM Shit-faced Shakespeare at Laugh Boston, Tickets $25.00 Shit-faced Shakespeare at Laugh Boston Comedy Club at the Westin Hotel, South Boston Seaport.
15
SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM THE PRINT EDITION
THURSDAY, JUNE 7, 2018
Open House Sunday June 10th 12pm-2pm
820R E 6th Street | Single Family Asking Price: $849,000 1,550 SqFt | 5 Rooms | 2 Bedrooms | 2 Full Baths | 2 Off-Street Parking