South Boston Online 7/15/18

THE PRINT EDITION

THURSDAY, JULY 12, 2018

VOLUME XIX- ISSUE 62

Unity Cup Tournament Proudly Plays Through Weekend at Moakley

Blue Man Group Drum Contest Rocks Lawn on D

By Richard Campbell

T

he site of a flash mob became Lawn on D when its festivities commenced this past Saturday, including more lawn games than usual, rock climbing, ice skating, giant collision space balls, and the fifth annual Blue Man Group drumming contest for participants to get an opportunity to join the Blue Man Group in performance onstage.

Tyler Peterson from Marblehead was the winner in a knock down drag out drumming battle between five participants, and also won over $6,000 in prizes that included a DW drum kit, Sabian cymbals, Vic Firth sticksplus tickets and prizes from Blue Man Group. But perhaps the biggest win continued on page 6 Mayor Martin Walsh & City Councilor Ed Flynn with Leadership Staff congratulate Unity Cup winner Team Brazil.

By Richard Campbell

A

s the World Cup headed into the final elimination rounds this past weekend (July 6th to 8th) South Boston hosted the city’s own version in the inaugural Mayor’s Unity Cup Tournament.

Sixteen Boston based soccer teams were packed into Saunders Stadium representing their original home nations in three days of competitive soccer.

The tournament, designed to showcase the cultural diversity and sportsmanship of American citizens from foreign lands who live in Boston, played on the stadium field gridded out in four smaller than regulation soccer fields. The tight fit made an interesting exhibit as teams were continued on page 8

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THURSDAY, JULY 12, 2018

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We Owe It To Our Catholic Heritage

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

I

t has been my experiences growing up, that people are more inclined to support the underdog than the powerful.

At least that’s how my neighbors and I always felt. Catholic immigrants, faced discrimination and oppression when they arrived on these shores, especially from Ireland. Unfortunately, after great struggle, Irish- Americans have been reluctant to remind future generations of the religious and economic persecutions they faced.

Call it pride, I guess. We don’t see, No Catholics Need Apply help wanted signs anymore in downtown store windows, but I still hear stories coming from many young adults today who can’t afford education or get a secure job. And they have no political power anymore. I’d like to tell you a chapter in that history that I never forgot. And one like other groups, I would never stop being mindful of or defend. Here’s a little story which is particularly critical today, as is was over 150 years ago in Boston.

One day in December, 1818, a crowd numbering 1,000 gathered at the Granary Burying Ground near the Boston Common. Proceeding south, and then east, they covered nearly two miles before reaching their destination in South Boston, arriving at a small piece of land purchased days before by Bishop Jean Cheverus. They carried with them the remains of their beloved Father Francis Matignon, who for 26 years helped establish the Catholic community in Boston, and it was here, at the first Catholic burying ground in Boston, that he would be laid to rest.

Father Matignon arrived in Boston on August 20, 1792, and found the small Catholic population there fighting amongst itself over

which of two priests should lead them, and the non-Catholic population leery of their presence. He overcame these initial difficulties, healing the Catholic community, and seeing them become accepted members of the community. His obituary reads, “With meekness and humility he disarmed the proud; with prudence, learning and wisdom, he met the captious and slanderous; and so gentle and so just was his course, that even the censorious forgot to watch him, and the malicious were too cunning to attack one armed so strong in honesty.”

While the local situation improved, Father Matignon’s responsibility as leader of the Boston mission extended well beyond the city limits, encompassing all Catholics in New England.

Realizing the task was more than one priest could handle, he sought assistance by inviting a fellow countryman to join him, Father Jean Cheverus. Together, they would come to be recognized as the founders of the Diocese of Boston.

Largely through their charitable works, the two priests helped the Catholic population gain acceptance among their fellow Bostonians. As a sign of their growing numbers and stature, they constructed the first Catholic church in New England, the Church of the Holy Cross, in 1803. In 1808, the Boston mission had grown significantly, and so Pope Pius VII elevated it to the Diocese of Boston, intending to name Father Matignon its first bishop to reward him for his work there. He refused, citing his age and ailments, recommending Father Cheverus instead, and it was he who was ordained as the first bishop of Boston in 1810.

When Father Matignon died on September 19, 1818, his funeral was held at the Church of the Holy Cross, and he was interred in the tomb of John Magner, a prominent Irish businessman, at the Granary Burying Ground. At the time Catholics were usually buried in one of the three public burial grounds within the city limits, but Bishop Cheverus set about finding a resting place more befitting for his dear friend and colleague. He successfully petitioned the Boston Board of Health for permission to establish a Catholic burial ground in the city, and subsequently purchased

land in South Boston on December 9, 1818, reinterring the remains Father Matignon there several days later.

The following year, construction of a mortuary chapel over Father Matignon’s tomb commenced in early May, and was dedicated on July 4, 1819. It is believed to be the work of architect Charles Bullfinch, who designed the Massachusetts State House, Church of the Holy Cross, and completed the United States Capitol building. Both the chapel and cemetery were dedicated to Saint Augustine in honor of an Augustinian priest, Father Philip Lariscy, who raised funds to complete the project.

Originally intended as a small mortuary chapel, it has grown over the past 200 years, reflecting changes that have taken place in the surrounding neighborhood of South Boston. In the decades following Father Matignon’s death, South Boston saw an influx of Irish Catholic immigrants, often settling there to work the furnaces that fueled the local glasswork industry.

Mass was held weekly at the chapel by a priest sent from the Cathedral of the Holy Cross on Franklin Street, but it would soon prove inadequate for the growing numbers in attendance, prompting Bishop Cheverus’ successor, Bishop Benedict Fenwick, to expand the chapel. Work included the additions of a choir and sacristy, and mounting the cover of Matignon’s tomb on a wall behind the altar, before rededicating the chapel on October 16, 1831.

The chapel would be the sole place of worship for South Boston Catholics until the dedication of Saints Peter and Paul Church in 1845, and in the 1860s served as the home of Saint Augustine parish when it was created, until the new parish church was constructed.

The gravestones have stories to tell. Despite the great progress made in the previous half century, several cholera epidemics through the mid-nineteenth century revived anti-Catholic sentiments. It was the custom of the Irish Catholics to process with the deceased from the funeral service to their final resting place that raised accusations that by carrying the body through the streets they were spreading the disease.

Bishop Fenwick urged local Catholics bury their dead in Saint Augustine, away from the burial grounds in

the city center, to ease the tension.

Many buried within the chapel walls have unique stories to tell.

Father Alexander Sherwood Healy was born in Georgia and, his mother being a former slave, was sent north for better opportunities in life. He later served as rector at the Cathedral of the Holy Cross, and was pastor of Saint James, Boston, when he suddenly died in 1875. Also within the chapel is Patrick Donahoe, who purchased an early iteration of The Pilot in 1834, serving as editor until his death in 1901. There is even a legend that Father Lariscy buried several pirates within the grounds in 1819.

Throughout its history, the chapel and cemetery have gone through cycles of decay and repair, the latter coming most often during anniversary celebrations. After Bishop Fenwick’s expansion in 1831, it received major repairs in the 1860s when it served Saint Augustine parish, and again before the 75th Anniversary in 1894.

More work was completed over 15 months leading up to the 125th Anniversary in 1944, including the restoration of 170 gravestones, and extensive work was undertaken throughout much of the 1980s when it was named to the National Register of Historic Places (1987).

Saint Augustine Chapel is now the oldest Catholic church or chapel in Massachusetts, and has been actively used as a place of worship since its dedication nearly 200 years ago. As we approach yet another anniversary, it is our mission to break the cycle of decay and repair, and ensure the site receives regular maintenance for years to come. We appeal for those interested to join the newly formed Friends of Saint Augustine Cemetery and make a small contribution to help sustain this historic Catholic site in South Boston.

St. Augustine’s Chapel is a symbol of the oppression and discrimination Catholics still face, even if some powerful and well connected don’t want to admit it. They are no longer committed in supporting our own values and traditions but only those causes that are more politically popular in the elite culture. Well it’s time we got back to supporting our own causes, and our children’s schools, and our old and run down Churches is a good place to begin. Charity begins at home. Let’s get back to basics.

SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM THURSDAY, JULY 12, 2018

Networking Night, A Success By: Tara Kerrigan Hayes The South Boston Chamber of Commerce recently held their ongoing Small Business Networking Night at Capo, on West Broadway, bringing together small business owners in the area, from various backgrounds. The night was a great success with a diverse array of business owners from family dentists, to high end clothing store owners, to local home inspectors and more.

Mingling over cocktails at a pp e t i z er s , me mb er s enjoyed a social atmosphere while simultaneously making connections and capitalizing on the opportunity to share ideas and interests with likeminded entrepreneurs, which can be especially valuable for those new to the community.

The event was cohosted by the South Boston Neighborhood Development Corporation, who also sponsors the Street Festivals and Christmas Shopping Strolls in

the interest of supporting the small business community. Founded in 1983, the SBNDC’s mission includes economic development, affordable housing and quality of life improvements in South Boston.

Representing from the SBNDC was Donna Brown, as well as Karen Stanley from the SBCC. Formerly and annual event, the goal of the SBCC is to eventually host the networking event quarterly, giving the growing number of owners in the area additional chances to strengthen professional relationships. From promoting one’s product to brainstorming about marketing, advertising and social media, the South Boston Small Business Networking Event is simply a fun night out, in an environment that happens to be conducive to professional growth. Follow the South Boston Chamber of Commerce to learn more about the next event (tentatively scheduled for September).

Flynn Holds South Boston Office Hours Boston City Councilor Ed Flynn will take his Neighborhood Office Hours program to the Cranberry Cafe, located at 704 East Broadway, this Saturday, July 14th from 1pm-2:30pm. Residents are encouraged to bring constituent and neighborhood issues directly to Councilor Flynn and his staff.

“As City Councilor, it is important for me to continue this program and bring City Hall services to each of our neighborhoods. Oftentimes, people are unable to take the time from work or too busy to travel into the city to deal with a particular issue. This is an opportunity for us to come to the neighborhood over the weekend and hear from our residents directly about their concerns regarding our parks, public safety, development, and our libraries,” said Flynn. “My belief is that every part of District 2 deserves to be treated with respect and dignity, as well as having the same access to basic city services as everyone else. I will continue to bring City Hall services to each of our neighborhoods.”

For more information regarding future neighborhood office hours or constituent service issues, please contact Councilor Flynn’s office at 617-635-3203 or Ed.Flynn@Boston.Gov.

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SUNDAY BRUNCH JOIN US FOR A SUNDAY BRUNCH IN SUPPORT OF

CONGRESSMAN

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FLORIAN HALL, 55 HALLET ST DORCHESTER Tickets are P $35 and can be purchased at the door or online at http://bit.ly/SFLSundayBrunch07152018 Reserved tables of ten are available.

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

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Tynan Community Center Recognizes Graduates The BCYF Tynan Community Center has always recognized and regarded the importance of education amongst its youth members. We have, for many years, offered academic assistance to students within the community.

Each year, a number of BCYF Tynan kids go on to graduate from high school or college, making the Tynan staff proud of their accomplishments.

We would like to share some of these recent accomplishments.

Jacqueline Czar has just graduated from Archbishop Williams High School and will be attending Framingham State University this fall, with a concentration in Criminal Justice.

She aspires to be a police officer and keep the city safe. Jackie has been attending the BCYF Tynan for about 12 years. She participates in a number of our athletic leagues/ tournaments, she has worked in our youth employment program, and she is a constant presence in our new teen center. Jackie is an excellent role model to our younger members and is always around to lend a helping hand here at the Tynan. She already serves as one of South Boston’s finest.

Jake Donovan is a new graduate of Boston College High School. He will be attending Saint Michael’s in Vermont this fall as a business major. Jake is

an active member of our teen program and also served on our youth council. Many of his ideas helped to design our new teen center. He also served on our “Youth Venture” team, which was a youth entrepreneurship opportunity that partnered BCYF with The United Way. Jake will make a great businessman one day.

Claire Farma is our third featured “Tynan graduate.”

Claire has graduated from the John D. O’Bryant School of Math and Science and will be attending the University of Maine, where she will be majoring in Communications. Claire also served on the Tynan “Youth Venture” team and had a strong presence along with many excellent ideas. Communications will be right up her alley. She exhibits both intelligence and confidence and I am trusting that she will be a very successful woman one day.

Haley Dillon is one of our older Tynan “kids.” Haley just graduated from the University of Maine in Orono, where she majored in Communications.

Haley spent a lot of time here at the Tynan and never forgot her roots. She quoted, “I spent my childhood at the Tynan and it helped me to get where I am today.” She participated in various Tynan activities, ranging from BNBL to Zumba to Girls’ Group and more. Haley is such a positive presence and never forgot to stop by and say hello during her college breaks. She was a participant in the Tynan Math tutoring program during her high school career at Boston Latin Academy. She now just accepted a position in the “MTP-Management Trainee Program” at Sherwin Williams and we could not be happier for her.

Hannah Powe rs is another college success story.

Hannah has been attending the Tynan Community Center for at least a decade. She participates in our “new” 17 and up Women’s Basketball League and stops in to say hello whenever she is in the neighborhood, walking with her beautiful new baby girl, Karly. Hannah was just pinned from the radiography program at Roxbury Community College. and is a special success story considering she was able to graduate while balancing the task of new motherhood. Hannah said, “I’ve always felt that the Tynan was a second home to me.

I’m so glad that kids have a place like this to go to.” We are very proud of her accomplishments.

Matt Prokop is our last college graduate. Matt studied at Assumption College, home of the greyhounds, where he played basketball for two years. Before Assumption, there was never a week that went by that Matt wasn’t in our gym shooting around. Matt started out at Assumption as a Biology major and made the switch to focus on Human Services. He worked in our camp for a couple of years and now just accepted a position with Serur Agencies as a producer of life insurance.

Matt is a great kid all around and we are lucky to have him as one of our own up at the Tynan.

BPD Tennis Lessons on Devine Way Station C-6 (South Boston) of the Boston Police Department holds free tennis lessons for Southie kids in the tennis courts on Devine Way, next to Old Harbor/Mary Ellen McCormack Housing. So far these have been a great success, with dozens of young folks lining up along miniature nets. BPD Officer Frank Williams is tossing balls to the kids in a “high five” drill, as BPD Sgt. Steve McNeil from C-6 Community Services looks on.

SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM THURSDAY, JULY 12, 2018

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Susan Devlin - A Local Entreprenuer And Humanitarian

By: Tara Kerrigan Hayes We all aspire to live our lives in a meaningful way, but anyone who knows Susan Devlin, knows she sets the bar. Having always been fiercely determined and inherently altruistic, Susan had two dreams as a little girl; to one day own her own business and ultimately, to help people. he fusion of those t wo dreams began with her fervent personal philosophy: that every person is beautiful and deserves to feel as such. That passion for nurturing self-conf idence in others led Susan to the salon

industry where she honed her skills for many years, until in 2007, realizing one of her childhood dreams, she opened her own business, appropriately named Nurture Salon and Spa. Susan has now been using her platform as a business owner for over 14 years to donate to local charities and causes, giving everything from cash and time to products, services, gift cards and more. When her accountant threatened to have her committed if she continued to donate at such a feverish pace, Susan found yet another way to give.

In her most recent endeavor and proudest accomplishment, Susan is now a member on the Board of Directors to The Phoenix House, a nonprof it organization providing emergency shelter and rehousing services for mothers and their children. Operating more than 120 programs across 10 states, the scope of The Phoenix House’s impact on families is immense. Not only do they offer evidence-based care to teens, adults and families, as well as

unique programming for mothers with young children (a nd mental health services for the military community), but their adolescent program offers teens residential care while attending on-site, accredited high schools.

In addition to raising money and goods for the Phoenix House, Nurture Salon will be donating time and ser vices to members preparing for job interviews with their sights on the future, bringing Susan’s childhood dream full circle in promoting positive change.

In fact, w it h Susa n’s reputation to exude and inspire positivity to every person she encounters, it’s no surprise that she has been approached by several companies to be hired as a Motivational Speaker. With her main motivation being to enrich the life of others, there’s no limit to what Susan will accomplish, which is good news for The Phoenix House and the lives they touch. And it’s thanks to The Phoenix House that Susan’s reach can now

spread beyond the conf ines of her local community as she expands from simply improving lives – to changing them.

While planning a fundraiser this fall, Susan also spends her time requesting and coordinating donations from various stores requesting overstocked materials, home goods and clothing to assist families with the most basic of living needs, to help them focus on reacclimating into the workforce and community.

A natural born empath, Susan’s capacity to give is all encompassing, and her passion for humanity- contagious. She gives of herself, her ideas, her energy, her time, all in the spirit of helping others, and in laying the ground work, she’s made it easy for the rest us to help better the lives of others too. To make a difference by making a donation please go to: www. phoenixhouse.org. For more inquiries, please email Susan at: susanforthephoenixhouse@gmail. com. .

Compass by the Bay Events Forever Fit with Nick at Compass on the Bay July 5, 12, 19, 26, 2018, 10:30 am at Compass on the Bay Assisted Living and Memory Support Community, 1380 Columbia Road, South Boston.

Yoga with Karen at Compass on the Bay July 3, 2018, 1:00 pm at Compass on the Bay Assisted Living and Memory Support Community, 1380 Columbia Road, South Boston. Join us for an afternoon of rejuvenating yoga with Karen.

Ann Marie & Ice Perform at Compass on the Bay Jul y 18, 2018, 10:15 am at Compass on the Bay Assisted Living and Memory Support Community, 1380 Columbia Road, South Boston. Ann Marie & Ice will perform lively karaoke and encourage everyone to join in.

“Grab Your Passport! Destination: Morocco” celebration at Compass on the Bay

ff Join us AND LUNCH R! A TOU

July 24, 2018, all day at Compass on the Bay Assisted Living and Memory Support Community, 1380 Columbia Road, South Boston. The celebration will be a day-long event that is sure to be lots of fun!

Johnny Rampino entertains at Compass on the Bay July 31, 2018, 1:30 pm at Compass on the Bay Assisted Living and Memory Support Community, 1380 Columbia Road, South Boston. Join us for some lively accordion entertainment by Johnny Rampino!

MEMORY SUPPORT ASSISTED LIVING 1380 Columbia Road, Boston, MA 617.268.5450 I CompassOnTheBay.com LEADING SENIOR LIVING IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION

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THURSDAY, JULY 12, 2018

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Blue Man Group Drum Contest... continued from page 1 was being able to perform a piece called “Drum Finale Throwdown” with the famed Blue Man Group band, which Mr. Peterson showed himself well prepared to handle.

This was Tyler’s second time around competing for the distinction, and he bested Vlade Guigni, who hails from the DR, and lives in Boston, Xavier Martin from Sanford, North Carolina, Cameron Petros from Ellsworth, Maine and Victoria Venegas-Riz who currently lives in Boston and is from Miami, Florida.

Tyler is quoted as saying; “This experience was incredible. It was amazing playing with Blue Man Group.

They are such personalities and it was so much fun to be on stage with them.”

“When they announced that I was the winner, I almost didn’t believe it.

I’m so happy and thankful to have the opportunity to be selected.” The Blue Man group is an international touring company that has permanent theatrical productions in New York, Las Vegas, Boston, Chicago, Orlando, and Berlin.

Quite obviously from an entertainer’s

perspective they are a feather in the hat of a fledgling young drummer. Tyler also distinguished himself by thanking his drumming teacher and idol, a display of gratitude that may be part of the reason the Blue Man Group chose him.

I can attest to the fact that the drumming was not only loud but had a thrilling effect upon the audience progressively heating up Lawn on D until the final Appearance of the Blue Man Group themselves. Their iconic mime and drum show had some of the trademark effects, squirting fluorescent dyes and confetti guns, and the audience was treated to various freebees- from t-shirts to beer cup holders. The lawn was hot as lines gleefully formed to purchase drinks and food, as both kids and adults played on the equipment.

Some kids came specially dressed, including a swinging Princess and superhero rock climbers. This was the biggest crowd I have ever seen at Lawn on D, and as the afternoon shift was pouring out, more people made the second wave for the evening concert.

For upcoming events on Lawn on D, see the BCEC schedule at: https:// www.signatureboston. The Friday 13th Boston Herald Live Broadcast is the next event... stayed tuned .

Cameron Petros from Ellsworth Maine was very explosive.

Xavier Martin from Sanford, North Carolina had a soulful open sound.

BCEC Security staff member Bobby Diggins gets the full inspection.

Tyler Peterson of Marblehead celebrating his win with the Blue Man Group.

Victoria Venegas-Riz presented a subtle and finely tuned piece.

Vlade Guigni who hails from the DR had a clean sound, very jazzy.

SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM THURSDAY, JULY 12, 2018

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Looking cool in shades for such a hot day!

Boinking around inside giant bubbles.

Someone dressed up as a Princess for the occasion!

Now that Suffolk Downs is on its last leg, this is horse racing in Boston!

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Unity Cup... continued from page 1 passionately pursuing the grand prize. Organized by the mayor’s office, it was sponsored by New England Revolution, Telemundo Boston, We Got Soccer, South End Soccer, Valeo FC, Massachusetts Youth Soccer, and Boston Scores, among other minor sponsors. This was a low-key event that was mostly observed by the team’s personal fans.

There were soccer skill events for kids, prize giveaways, free water supplied by the city water department, and free Hoody ice cream by the Boston Police- as well as merchandise on sale from We Got Soccer. An ample number of friendly volunteers made events run smoothly, although ball replacement needed some work in the beginning, it was polished by the tournament end!

One could hear the lively chants in multiple languages across the fields. “Arriba!” and “Vamos!” from Spanish speaking teams, to various urbane sounding slogans from France like “Allez!” and “Rapide!” and Italy, “Andiamo!” and “Combattere!” The level of civility was admirable although a few teams blamed the referees for their losses.

On the first night UAE, Chile, and Mexico showed their dominance.

The USA team, which seemed barely represented by far fewer players than all other teams revealed early on they were not contenders. On day one Chile man handled USA 7-4, on day two El Salvador handed them their heads 10-1, and Angola made quick work of them 5-1. Angola beat Chile late in the day 2-1 but were vanquished by Italy. This writer admits his partiality to the Mexican team, who exhibited grace under pressure, after their second day loss to Italy 2-nil, to later in the afternoon take on the dominant UAE, besting them 5-2- a definite upset.

Somalia was a notoriously weak team that allowed multiple teams to rack up huge numbers- being beat by more than 7 points by several teams. In high contrast to the UAE’s cool strategy meetings and clever ball handling, Somalians argued amongst themselves as they headed into ever more problems on the field, not the least of which was useless goal tending. China beat France 4-0, squeaked with Brazil in a tie and beat Nigeria by 2-1, in their second Saturday game. They

revealed a pretty good play making team, but needed more muscle, to over-power their opponents fully.

Perhaps Vietnam was the youngest team all around, and though they showed promise in their first victory against Guatemala, they were bested by Haiti 2-nil and Ireland 2-nil and eliminated on day two.

Ireland went on to defeat Guatemala 3-2 in their next match-making them 3-0 in the tournament on day two. The Italians, smarting from their first day loss to UAE, bested Mexico 2-nil and Somalia, by a whopping 9-0.

They seemed to take winning or losing most in stride, always maintaining a cosmopolitan culture. France was scoreless twice on day two and seemed to have problems moving the ball into their own territory, and were chipped out by China 4-0 and Brazil, 3-0. With the Brazilians winning against Nigeria 3-2 early on the second day and then besting France 3-0, they were set to move onto the finals.

Similarly, El Salvador beat Chile 3-1, the US 10-1, to put themselves in the sweet spot.

In the final matches on Sunday Italy doused Angola 7-1, Haiti beat China 1-nil, Mexico got eliminated by El Salvador, 3-1. El Salvador also beat Italy 3-1. When Brazil polished off Haiti 3-1 that set them up for the final match with El Salvador. Brazil squeaked out a victory 2-1 against El Salvador. Youth won the day, for despite El Salvador’s veteran strategy, they couldn’t beat Brazil down the field to defend.

Mayor Martin Walsh and City Councilor Ed Flynn showed up to give awards and well wishes to the players. Walsh gave credit to Philadelphia who has an established Unity Cup for helping Boston create its first event, and he emphasized how important the event is to shine a light on the diversity and openness of the city of Boston. The mayor thanked the sponsors, and particularly the leadership team and staff of the event, for a job well done. He joked that neither USA or Ireland, made it to the finals of the World Cup this year, and then commented more seriously on how soccer -the world’s most participated sports event- gives American citizens from all backgrounds an opportunity to display athleticism and civic pride. All in all, the skill level at this tournament covered a broad spectrum. This is an event that South Bostonians interested in soccer should watch for on their calendars next year!

SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM

SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM THURSDAY, JULY 12, 2018

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THURSDAY, JULY 12, 2018

From the Dugout: M Street Softball League

By Richard Campbell

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t was just cooling off this past Thursday night as the M Street League gathered for an amiable showdown at the edge of Medal of Honor Park. The Silk Worms, coached by Dan Barzottini were facing Fat Baby, coached by Dave Piccirilli, and I would say they were fairly well matched in some respects, but the Fat Baby had the humor and the hits.

Besting the Silk Worms 9-5, the scrappy Babies put on a show, and kept the small attending audience’s attention with side splitting one liners.

The M Street League has 25 teams divided in two Divisions, with Lincoln Tavern 11-1 and City Tap House 10-1 at the top of their respective divisions, these two teams are the ones to watch. Of course, that is if you aren’t a fan of a particular team. This is a fun night out when you want to get away from the computer / cell phone screens (hint, hint) and just kick back. I noticed people in the know had grabbed themselves a pizza and soft drinks to take to the park. The fan base was small but passionate on the night South Boston Online dropped in to do a quick shoot. For South Bostonians who aren’t familiar with M-Street Softball Field here are general directions and schedule notes from the league site. The address is: http://www.sbsports.com/softball/default.asp GAME NOTES: “Games are played Monday-Friday, with game times starting at 6pm, 7:30, and 9pm.

Holiday weekends such as Memorial Day and 4th of July are usually followed by an “off ” day, but this is not always the case. All of the games are played in South Boston at the M Street Softball field - use 2 M Street as your GPS address point. Games are played Monday-Friday, with game times starting at 6pm, 7:30, and 9pm. Holiday weekends such as Memorial Day and 4th of July are usually followed by an “off ” day, but this is not always the case. All of the games are played in South Boston at the M Street Softball field - use 2 M Street as your GPS address point.”

Of the amateur leagues in South Boston, M Street Softball is to be commended on their up-to-date website, with full schedule, locations, and stats!

Kudos to Jim Sullivan for a job well done! Here’s a brief listing of the games upcoming:

THURSDAY JULY 12th 6:00 PM Locker Room Talk at Village Pizza 7:30 PM Southside Tavern at Pat Simpson Club 9:00 PM STATS Sluggers at Elevated Realty

FRIDAY JULY 13TH 6:00 PM Backyard Betty’s at Smoke Shop BBQ 7:30 PM Elevated Realty at Berkshire Hathaway 9:00 PM Punk & Poet Bulldogs at Silkworms

SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM

SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM THURSDAY, JULY 12, 2018

Red Sox By the Numbers

by Rick Winterson Baseball is first and foremost a game of athletic skills, especially that elusive talent called “eye-hand coordination”. But baseball is also a game of numbers. Here are a few for you to think about: In these days of 95+ MPH pitching, it takes less than five-tenths (5/10) of a second for the ball to cross the plate from the pitcher’s mound, which is 60 feet away. That’s not much more than a couple of eyeblinks.

A few more numbers: The 2018 regular season is 60% complete. The All-Star Break is coming soon; it extends for four days, from Monday, July 16, through Thursday, July 19.

The All-Star Game itself will be hosted by the Washington Nationals and played on Tuesday evening, July 17.

When regular season play resumes on July 20, the standings of the various teams will tell a lot about where they will be at the end of the regular season on September 30. So let’s keep looking at what the numbers predict.

As of this writing, the Red Sox have seven games left before the AllStar Break – three (3) with the Texas Rangers (40-52, .440); four (4) with the Toronto Blue Jays (41-48, .461). In the AL East, the Jays are 20 games behind the Sox, who are at 62-29 and .681. As for other favorable numbers, the Red Sox possess a six-game winning streak; they will be home in Fenway for all seven of their remaining games before the All-Star Break. In contrast, the New York Yankees (58-29, .667, at this time second in the AL East, behind the Sox by 2 full games) are on the road for eight games before the All-Star Break, ending with four in Cleveland against the Indians, who are playing winning

ball (49-39, .557). Spoiler Alert!!!

Not too shabby for Boston’s home team! The numbers are all on our side.

The Sox will hit the road upon their return from the All-Star Break – three at the Detroit Tigers (40-52. 465), three at the bottom-dwelling Baltimore Orioles (24-65, .270), and four at the Minnesota Twins (39-48, .448). Yeah, that’s a ten-game road trip, but it’s all against teams playing less than .500 ball.

Then the Sox return to Fenway, where they’ll meet iron – two games with the National League’s Philadelphia Phillies (49-38, .563, and in first place in the NL East), followed by four on August 2-5 with the Yankees. That four-game set will be essentially a warm-up for the American League’s playoffs in the first half of October. At this point, the Yanks and the Sox are the only Major League baseball teams who have lost less than 30 games in the 2018 season (although at 31 losses, the Houston Astros are close behind).

And there are many other favorable Sox numbers: As for hitting, by the AllStar Break the Sox will have scored over 500 runs. That’s an average of more than five (5) runs every game so far.

Craig Kimbrel, reliever extraordinaire with his crab-like stance on the mound, is headed for 40+ saves this year. That’s Dennis Eckersley territory.

Oh well, enough of the numbers, even though they are highly favorable to the Sox. The Red Sox’ momentum, driven by those numbers, will continue. So, just make sure your TV is operational before the Yankees arrive in early August – South Boston’s pubs will be jam-packed from August 2 to the 5th, and tickets for those games at Fenway will be non-existent.

Photo By Richard Campbell

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David Biele Earns Key Labor Endorsements; United Steelworkers Local 12003 and Boston Carmen’s Union Back Campaign for State Representative

David Biele, a lifelong South Boston resident and local attorney running in the Democratic Primary for State Representative, has earned more key labor endorsements in his campaign for State Representative for the 4th Suffolk District. Biele, a leader in many South Boston community-based organizations, has continued winning strong support from organized labor, including recent endorsements from Ironworkers Local 7, Laborers Local 223, and IBEW Local 2222.

Last week, Biele stood with Boston Gas Workers during their lockout and has been standing in solidarity with organized labor.

Biele said, “I am honored to have the strong support of these local unions in my campaign for State Representative. There is no one who will fight harder for working families than I will, and it is an incredible boost to have their support in our campaign.”

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, standing up for retirees, 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 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.

St. Peter Expedition Sets Out

Fifteen intrepid urban explorers set out from St. Peter Academy last Saturday, to cross the wilderness of City Point. Note their lime-green T-shirts for maximum visibility. They are seen here at the intersection of L and East Broadway, in the company of five native guides (which is a good, safe 3:1 ratio). South Boston Online wishes them well, especially in regards to their return to civilization.

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THURSDAY, JULY 12, 2018

SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM

The 2018 Fourth – A True Celebration

Daniel Whiteside renders the National Anthem on the steps of Boston’s City Hall.

This year’s Independence Day was quite the celebration. It actually broke down into three parts: The City Hall gathering and the reading of the Declaration of Independence at the Old State House, the gathering on Castle Island for the 21-gun salute to the USS Constitution , and the Esplanade Pops Concert, with fireworks viewed from the Heights.

by Rick Winterson There was something magical about the 2018 Independence Day observances on this year’s Fourth of July. Possibly it was the bright sunshine and the undeniable summertime heat. And very possibly, it was the crowds that gathered everywhere, perhaps seeking assurance that our country was still, well, our country.

The City Hall gathering began

right at 9 a.m. The Ancient and Honorable Artillery Company, the Middlesex County Volunteers (Massachusetts), and the Zarba Military Band, plus many costumed marchers and Boston officials, formed up to see the colors presented and hear Daniel Whiteside render the National Anthem. A thunderous roar from the crowd ensued. The Pledge of Allegiance followed; everyone present joined in. A tangible feeling of patriotism affected the crowd throughout the ceremonies.

Mayor Walsh greeted them, thanking all the participants, and specifically mentioning that immigrants are welcome in the City of Boston. Frank Zarba, Director of the Zarba Military Band, struck up a rousing rendition of John Phillips Souza’s iconic “Stars and Stripes Forever”. The very well-practiced Middlesex County Volunteers (Massachusetts) executed their fife and drum numbers with both feeling and precision. The crowd set off for the Old Granary Burial Ground to lay wreaths on various patriots’ graves, and then marched to the Massacre Square in front of the Old State House.

The Declaration of Independence was then read in its entirety. Likely, that sounds as if it would be a forbidding task. But actually, the entire reading, from “When in the course of human events …” to “we mutually pledge our Lives, our Fortunes, and

our sacred Honor”, takes only nine (9) minutes – just nine short minutes for perhaps the most important political document ever written. And the crowd assembled for the reading was large, even huge. A quick guesstimate of its size gave 5,000 or more. It was an impressive turnout, for certain.

The next stop was Castle Island, where the USS Constitution sailed through its annual Independence Day turnaround on the harbor side of Fort Independence. Howitzers from the Massachusetts 101st Field Artillery (Massachusetts National Guard) answered the 21-gun salute rendered to the Fort by the USS Constitution. With her new rigging, fresh paint, and fittings, she looked sufficiently battleworthy to take on any naval vessel in the world. The Castle Island Association (the CIA) opened the Fort to visitors, hung their 600 square foot flag on the Fort’s wall, and conducted a guided tour.

Celebrations continued all day long on the Fourth. Among them of course was the Pops Concert and Fireworks Extravaganza on the

Esplanade, which closed as usual with Tchaikovsky’s “1812 Overture”, accompanied by church bells ringing all over Boston. The Fireworks Extravaganza followed at 10:30 p.m. on the Fourth. Many watched the fireworks from Dorchester Heights. Fireworks from all over (mostly illegal, we’re afraid) dotted the horizon before the Extravaganza began. It surrounded and silhouetted the Prudential skyscraper.

The 2018 July Fourth observances amounted to a long day, but it was impossible not to feel grateful for being an American. We have our problems – gridlock, homelessness, illegal immigrants, and the opioid crises are just a few. But we are a free people, blessedly free. And there were lighter moments that included T-shirts saying “Massachusetts Invented America”, a visit to Flynn Terminal by England’s Queen Mary 2, and the lawn sprinklers starting to spray the grass after dark on the Heights, just as the crowd gathered to view the Pops fireworks.

Hey, only in America !!!

SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM THURSDAY, JULY 12, 2018

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THURSDAY, JULY 12, 2018

SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM

Microbrew with Big Portions: Hopsters Opens in Seaport

By Richard Campbell

S

ome Bostonians might be familiar with the Hopsters location in Newton before it recently opened in the Seaport, but for this reviewer it was a first-time experience. All that a microbrewery should be: a man cave with full portions and their own in-house brewing experience, Hopsters looked on face like it might be another Seaport wallet suck-but happily it is not. The Hopsters menu, while not exactly daring, gets kudos for being solid, flavorful, and not skimpy. In the opening of the Seaport District this becomes increasingly important for the working-class patrons who have found many Seaport restaurants to not only be prohibitively expensive, but lacking in the area of portions.

Starting with the beer, you can not only find their house ready beers, but make your own custom brew. The custom brewing process is fairly complex, and I think reserved for true brew enthusiasts.

We trusted the experts and sampled the Englishman amber ale, and the very hoppy Newtonian. Given the name of the establishment there was naturally a pretty big group of eccentric hoppy ales, and they had a respectable

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wine list, with a full bar. The barbequed chicken flatbread pizza was generous enough for two and would be a cheap date out. I opted for the gigantic fish and chips, which was excellent and would have made any New Bedford fisherman proud. I didn’t price out the lobster rolls, but they looked full and well made.

My local burger expert gave Hopster’s burger two thumbs up- stuffed with gooey cheese and heart throbbing bacon-this is not the territory of squeamish dinner guests.

The buffalo chicken wings had a nice tang and were the only smallish plate we saw in the evening. Meat lovers will love the Charcuterie offerings, namely the Hot Soppresata, the Genoa, and aged Dragon Cheddar. Needless to say, if you eat an entrée here, you don’t need to order an appetizer, but the appetizers present a nice balance between trendy and regular pub fare.

Service here was easy going and fun to talk withand willing to let you sample their beers on hand, to make an educated choice. We noted an unpretentious bar scene starting to take hold with after-hours workers on Thursday night. Having the brewery in house lends an authenticity to the place that makes its branding seem natural and not over the top.

The Kid’s Menu is a welcome addition as parents who want a real meal, but don’t wish to be soaked when taking out the whole family will find the frisbee filled favorites from chicken tenders to mac & cheese and little pizzas augmented by salads, to be real economical delight. In an area of the city where real estate developers have made it nearly impossible for restaurants to survive without gouging their customers to pay inf lated rents- Hopsters stands out as a mini-chain that provides value and modest comfort food along with their well-crafted suds. See their full menu at: http://hopstersbrew.com, or visit them at 51 Sleeper Street,

SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM THURSDAY, JULY 12, 2018

Supporting Biele

On Tuesday, September 4th, we will be voting to elect our next State Representative, and I will be proud to cast my vote for David Biele. David Biele has lived in this community his entire life, and he understands the issues facing its residents. The thing that sets David apart in this election is his commitment to

giving back through his work with local non-profits and charities like the Labouré Center, South Boston Special Kids and Young Adults, and the South Boston Boys & Girls Club.

When David worked for Rep. Nick Collins, he was a regular presence at community meetings and worked collaboratively with neighborhood associations and civic groups. I know that David will always put the needs of our community first, because that is what he’s done for years. I hope you’ll join me in supporting David Biele to be our next State Representative!

Placid Reflections – A Relief?

Noreen Rosher F Street

Piano/Organ Player Needed St George Cathedral is looking for a piano/organ player to accompany the choir. If interested, please contact the church at 617-268-1275

All the beaches in South Boston have magnificent views of Boston Harbor, the President Roads, and Dorchester Bay. Try the above Old Harbor view in person, to wipe away the hectic memories of the 2018 Fourth of July and the stifling heat last week. You know what?

It works!

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SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM

THE PRINT EDITION

THURSDAY, JULY 12, 2018

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