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THE PRINT EDITION

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2017

VOLUME XVIIII - ISSUE 36

35th Annual Halloween Celebration at Castle Island

The Castle Island Association is holding its 35th Halloween celebration at Fort Independence on Castle Island this Saturday and Sunday, October 28 & 29, 2017, between 12:00 and 4:00 PM, weather permitting. All children from South Boston are cordially invited to come to the “Children’s Magical Halloween Castle”.

Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult. Costumes are optional. ADMISSION IS FREE! Over the past thirty-four years tens of thousands of children and adults have attended this celebration.

The event offers enjoyments of all kinds from outdoor entertainers, magicians, storytellers to our “magical castle” complete with sound effects - and free refreshments. Judging by its continuing popularity, a fun time is had by all!

The Castle Island Association firmly believes that the earlier we introduce our youngsters to Castle Island and its forts which span the entire spectrum of American history, the better it will be for the future of our nation. We hope their enjoyment and memories of the “Children’s Magical Halloween Castle” celebration as youngsters will result in a life-long interest in Castle Island and Fort Independence as historical sites. This Halloween celebration is the Castle Island Association’s way of saying “Thank You” to all who support us, especially the South Boston community. We are proud to serve our community, state and nation by giving guided tours of Fort Independence and hosting this event without charge and without any cost to the taxpayer.

DON’T DRIVE A CLUNKER

Councilor Linehan’s Final Day in Office

by Rick Winterson

City Councilor Bill Linehan has stepped down as the District 2 City Councilor, a little over two months before the official end of his term. Bill had been a Boston public servant for some 30 years, beginning as Director of Operations of the Parks Department and then becoming the Special Assistant to

Boston’s Chief Operating Officer.

In 2007, he was elected to the City Council, where he has been a member for the last ten years; for two years (2014-2016), he was the City Council President. Last Wednesday, October 18, in the Year of Our Lord 2017, he attended his last City Council meeting.

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THURSDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2017 SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM

Continued from Page 1

Linehan

Bill Linehan, City Councilor and long-time public servant, at his final Council meeting.

At 1 p.m. last Wednesday, the City Council suspended its agenda for an hour, so that District 2 City Councilor Bill Linehan could be formally honored. Right from its beginning, Linehan received a number of standing ovations as the farewell ceremony progressed.

Current Council President Michelle Wu introduced Mayor of Boston Martin J. Walsh, who delivered what were clearly heartfelt remarks, describing his own association with Bill. These extended back to reminiscences about the Mayor’s years as a State Representative.

At the ceremony’s conclusion, the

Mayor presented Linehan with a specially crafted Revere bowl for a keepsake; the other Councilors then gathered at the President’s podium for group photos.

After returning to his seat, Bill addressed remarks to the assemblage. Much of his speech was devoted to expressions of gratitude, with a special expression of gratitude and love to his wife Judy. He ended his speech with some frequently humorous remarks about each of the twelve other City Councilors in turn, concluding with special praise for how well Council President Michelle Wu has conducted the Council’s affairs during her term.

Needless to say, his speech received a final prolonged and enthusiastic standing ovation. The Councilors then took the opportunity to respond to Bill’s remarks.

Linehan has decided to leave his District 2 Councilor’s office early so that he could become an independent consultant. He feels it’s timely to begin establishing himself as a consultant on his own, with capabilities in basic city planning. He has also said he is interested in endorsing a candidate to replace him, now that he has stepped down a Councilor himself.

Mayor Walsh presents Councilor Linehan with a Revere bowl, as Council President Wu looks on.

Ex-Mayor Ray Flynn, with his wife Cathy, at the ceremony honoring Bill Linehan.

Mayor Marty Walsh makes remarks praising Bill Linehan’s lengthy public service.

Councilor Bill Linehan receives a standing ovation, after giving his own concluding remarks.

SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM THURSDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2017

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Flaherty Seeks Hearing on Antenna Siting Boston City Councilor AtLarge Michael Flaherty calls for Public Hearing on Lack of Publick Process regarding Siting of Antenna Devices Boston City Councilor At-Large Michael Flaherty has called for a public hearing to discuss the siting and impacts of telecommunications-based infrastructure upgrades that are taking place across Boston. The hearing comes in response to concerns raised by constituents, from various neighborhoods, regarding the lack of awareness of the implementation of these antenna devices (technically referred to as small cell, small wireless and distributed antenna

systems), and the potential effects on quality of life.

The City of Boston has license agreements with six wireless providers that manage more than 300 small cell sites to assist with wireless telecommunications.

These providers are American Tower Corporation, Crown Castle, Extenet, Lightower, Mobilitie, and Verizon. The respective contracts allow the providers to install the antenna devices on City properties - such as streetlights, utility poles, and traffic lights along with non-City properties (subject to approval) over the course of ten years according to the Term of Agreement.

“It is understandable and reasonable that, given that we live in a historic city which is

Ed Flynn Calls for Special Services Division to Increase Safety in City Parks Ed Flynn, candidate for Boston City Council District 2, has called for the creation on a Special Services Division within the City of Boston Parks Department to assist in the disposal of needles, monitor our parks, and increase public safety for our children and families. This Special Services Division would collaborate with the Boston Police Department and the state›s Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) to ensure that the city and state are working in concert to address this public safety issue.

“Recent reports have highlighted that our city’s parks and playgrounds, which are supposed to be a safe place for our children and families, were littered with over 63,000 hypodermic needles in the month of September. The opioid epidemic has spilled over and created an additional public health crisis for our city,” said Flynn. “It is my hope that

the creation of this Special Services Division, specifically tasked with the monitoring of our parks and the disposal of needles, will help to solve this problem and remove this covert activity from our parks.”

Flynn recognized the work of Boston City Councilor At-Large Annissa EssaibiGeorge in spearheading the effort to double the city’s Mobile Sharps Collection Team, who are tasked with the disposing of discarded needles. This past summer, Flynn testified before the council regarding EssaibiGeorge’s legislation on this public safety issue. “Anissa has been out front on this issue and looking out for our kids.

If elected, I will work closely with her to make sure that our residents feel safe in public spaces where they live, work, and play.”

going through an era of rapid growth and development, it is necessary that the landscape of Boston requires consistent infrastructure upgrades, including telecommunicationsbased infrastructure,” said Boston City Councilor At-Large Michael Flaherty. “However, it is unacceptable that residents have not been made aware of the process. Further, while the Federal Communications Commission has regulations that keep an eye on the public health concerns raised by these systems, we need to keep in mind that the actual placement of these devices can still be detrimental to an individual’s health and quality of life.”

Boston City Councilor At-Large Michael Flaherty also noted that despite the technical name of the device,

the antenna systems are by no means “small”. Residents have brought to attention the displeasing aesthetic features of the antenna devices which have appeared inches away from their windows, stating that they do not fit into the landscape of the neighborhood and are invasive.

Boston City Councilor At-Large Michael Flaherty intends to invite representatives from the City of Boston’s Department of Innovation and Technology, the City of Boston’s Transportation Department, the City of Boston’s Public Improvement Commission, the City of Boston’s Department of Public Works to the hearing which will be expeditiously scheduled. Community members are encouraged to send their concerns and suggestions to Michael.Fla hert y@Boston.gov.

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THURSDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2017 SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM

Shenanigans: No Nonsense Pub Food

By Richard Campbell For almost twenty years I have visited Shenanigans off and on as a basic staple in the pub scene of South Boston, and it has weathered the new ultra-expensive chic restaurant scene fairly well. Chef Rob Kearney introduced a new menu, which is much like the old menu with a few additions and deletions, so recently I’ve visited a few times to give a taste test. The old reliable meals, a full plated fish and chips, reasonably priced at $13.99, the modestly priced packed club sandwiches for $9.99, and the classic burgers hovering around the ten-dollar price point, put most of the restaurants in Southie to shame for over charging.

Some of the new items, the Sizzling Gaelic Steak sautéed with mushrooms in Irish whiskey peppercorn sauce look hefty, moving a portion of his line-up a little towards the above pub food price. The grilled salmon with asparagus spears comes in a lemon cream sauce with jasmine rice is easily more inviting than the fried calamari, which I had on my last trip

when his junior chefs overcooked the squid turning them into a tough knot of crunchy popcorn substance, only to be redeemed by the candy sweet chili sauce. Perhaps it’s my fault for asking them to kill the banana peppers normally included in the order which might have provided more moisture. We tasted the Dubliner steak sandwich, which was packed with just right rare roast beef, and the clam chowder has a pleasing creaminess that satisfies. Best not to get too fancy here, but something that escaped my notice is the reasonable full breakfast menu, which might serve business people in the area for easy company meetings, or to fill the

diner gap for construction workers.

I like the fact that the restaurant does not push some trendy theme on you, with an ample full round bar, and camera shy service that

is so down to earth. Though they have added more and more TV screens for the sports fans over the years, it is reminiscent of what Durgin Park used to be before they morphed completely into a tourist trap, sporting waitresses with pluck and a sense of humor.

Where other restaurants in Southie are jumping through hoops to show how “innovative” they are, Shenanigans does quite well with no nonsense pub food it has done for years. Take it at face value that you can crack a joke here, and there’s free parking. Located at 332 West Broadway, for more information, see their website at: http:// shenannigansbarandgrill.com/

SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM THURSDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2017

Friends of Library Book Sales Continue

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Supporting Ed Flynn I am writing in support of Ed Flynn in the election for Boston City Council on Tuesday, November 7th. Ed is someone whom I have known to be deeply involved in this community; whether it be coaching youth sports, supporting many South Boston charities and causes, or being there for people in their time of need. Ed is also not afraid to stand up for working families across the district. During the Tufts Nurses strike, Ed walked the picket line in solidarity with us everyday to show his support and

firm belief in collective bargaining and safe patient conditions. He also served our country in the US Navy for 25 years and knows what it means to work hard, sacrifice and serve others. As our next Boston City Councilor, I know Ed Flynn will continue to be there for us and serve our neighborhood.

Please join me in voting for Ed Flynn on Tuesday, November 7th.

Sincerely, Flo Holmes, South Boston

Did you know that the Friends of the South Boston Branch Library sell used books very cheaply – anywhere from $2 down to as low as 50 cents each? Occasionally, some books are given away for free. These books are “gently” used, i.e., they’ve been read. Most of these sales take place on Saturdays. Here are three “Friends”, nestled among Hubway bicycles last Saturday, selling their hearts out. Check for the next book sale whenever you go to the Branch Library.

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THURSDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2017 SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM

South Boston Historical Society Meets at Branch Library

By Richard Campbell Robert Allison, director of the South Boston Historical Society and history professor at Suffolk University introduced his guest speaker, Matthew Wilding as a former student, whom he held in great pride for his accomplishments, and Mr. Wilding returned the favor by noting how exemplary is the history department at Suffolk University. In his own self-effacing way Mr. Wilding described his initial failures in historical writing, which eventually blossomed into successes through the mentorship of his professor. The evident comradery between the two revealed the lack of pretension that historians, as observers of the world, naturally acquire in attempting to explain their life-long passion to an American public that so rarely cares about history. With not a hint of pretension Mr. Wilding delved deep into a lecture on the historical operations of Congress, seen through the lens of the Edward Kennedy M. Institute programs where he is a staff Education Producer.

In the confines of the humble South Boston Branch of the Boston Public Library, a group of twenty or so members listened to Mr. Wilding explain the mission of the Edward M. Kennedy Institute (EMKI), its promotion of active citizenry through awareness of Congressional history and functions, as well as a few disturbing notions of what the Congress of the United States has been and become. Mr. Wilding was careful not to cast dispersions disproportionally upon either the left or right, and focused upon the times in history when the Congress worked well to represent the people. He drew particular attention

to both successes and failures of the legislative branch to lead in both ordinary periods and times of crisis.

Emphasizing that we are indeed not in ordinary times, Mr. Wilding was none the less conciliatory to Republican virtues as well as Democratic ones, and walked the fine line between discussing the manner in which government has been exercised in history, without victimizing or finger pointing. He drew clarity to the argument that government is not only necessary, but it is capable of doing great good as well as harm- and that to do the former, rather than the latter, requires an engaged citizenry. Leave it to historians to see the bigger picture without being attached to the latest news agenda. In this he discussed the Senate Immersion Model of the Kennedy Institute, where the principal goal is to put the patrons of the museum into the legislative process through a series of theatrical demonstrations centered around historical decisions.

Rather than trying to label members of Congress as good guys and bad guys, Mr. Wilding attempted to separate the wheat from the chaff, not merely by the positions they held; but by the efficacy with which they dispatched their duties to the American public. Without necessarily stating it outwardly, that he seemed to be speaking about a Congress of the past, where worthwhile battles were fought, not for ego gratification, money agendas, or short sighted victories; but for strongly held beliefs about what is good for the nation. The idea of service was highlighted through a series of historical movements, from Woodrow Wilson’s failure over the League of Nations, to the battle to censure the universally disgraced Senator Joseph McCarthy, to LBJ’s embracing of the civil rights act in the name of John F. Kennedy.

Wilding emphasized that though Congress is designed as a deliberative body, it does get great things done. Given the state of the institution at this time, eyebrows raised among even the most ardent history buffs. He centered his arguments upon how Congress becomes a crucible of crisis during turbulent periods, though he did not

voluntarily mention the chief reason for its current failures, (the influence of big money), to find compromise in an America deliberately polarized by politicians who are primarily influenced by lobbyists. He did explain how rational votes have been achieved through debate in Congress by overcoming party or personal favoritism. He mentioned courageous people have crossed party lines to follow their true beliefs- recalling the example of the heavy price that Maine Republican Senator Margaret Chase Smith paid for challenging McCarthy early on in his career.

All along Mr. Wilding’s model was the that which the EMKI stresses actively to visitors, who become active Congressmen and Congresswomen with identities upon entering the replication of the hall of Congress in the museum, instantly realizing the gravity of their new found roles. This is a particularly instructive thing for students to do- (despite the fact the Boston Public Schools evidently has a poor record of attendance), those who are able to attend in high school are often transformed by the civic engagement they discover. If only Congress could become so engaged.

Emphasizing as it does the process of government, rather than the history of the Senator and his family, the EMKI seems to have been designed from more of an intellectual notion than the museum dedicated to his brother. As Wilding noted, this does not detract from the familial experience of JFK’s museum,

but rather emphasizes that our government, our constitution, and the rights of our citizens take a higher value than any particular person in our history. It might be said that Ted Kennedy had good reason to focus primarily upon legislative accomplishments. Few people realize just how much legislation passed through the hands of Edward Kennedy that largely served to advance development of institutions in Boston and Massachusetts.

With a legislative record of writing over 2,500 bills and passing over 300, he kept this small state on the forefront of Congressional activity for four decades.

While it is a hard sell given the contemporary Congress, the notion that the United States government can function with a well -informed citizenry did not seem lost on any members of the mostly elderly audience. Some suggested during the Q&A that it be a civic requirement for every Boston public school student to attend the EMKI, while others debated about the costs for such field trips. The South Boston Historical Society library meetings generally occur at 6:30pm on the last Monday of every month. Some of the future historical activities planned by this group look promisingparticularly the historical holiday tour of South Boston. For more information, go to the South Boston Historical Society website at: http:// www.southbostonhistoricalsociety. org/ and the website of the Edward M. Kennedy Institute website at: https://www.emkinstitute.org/

SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM THURSDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2017

Halloween at the Stationhouse

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The BFD’s stationhouse at Emerson and Fourth (Engine 2, Ladder 19) always takes part in our Holiday observances, including Halloween – look for their version of Broomhilda’s skull the next time you go by that intersection.

The media even film TV series there, so stop in for Trick or Treat Night next Tuesday. When a producer spots you, it could be your big break. Who knows?

Hogans Fight in Chattanooga

The Hogan brothers made sure the fighting Irish were well represented, both earning their ways to Chattanooga, Tennessee, to compete – Frank (the “Irish Tank”) in the Eastern qualifiers to earn a spot on the Youth Olympics World Team; Richie (the “Hit Man”) fighting in the Eastern Regional Championships. Richie suffered a tough loss, by a split decision, even though he backed his opponent up and went toe-totoe every minute, every round.

Frank, facing the #1 fighter

in the country on the first day, decided to go all out. His body shots, too much in Round One, led to a win by a unanimous decision.

He faced the #3 in the country the next day, punching right through him on his way to the Finals.

Frank’s final bout was a WAR! But the “Tank” stayed on him and won another unanimous decision.

Frank (the “Tank”) Hogan wins the #1 spot in the country.

Training out of Big Six Boxing, he is the Pride of New England.

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THURSDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2017 SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM

Business Interview: TD Bank Branch Open

By Richard Campbell South Boston Online was watching as the final touches were put on the new TD North Bank Branch on 305 West Broadway for the opening on this past Saturday October 21, and I spoke with Marion Colombo Market President of Retail in Greater Boston and Rhode Island about the bank’s new home in South Boston.

SBO: How did decide on that location for this new branch?

Marion Colombo: “We have had a growing presence in Boston, and South Boston has always been an area of interest for us. We consider ourselves a neighborhood bank first and foremost, and were very excited to obtain the location on West Broadway.”

SBO: What kind services do you have for home buyers in the area?

Marion Colombo: “We have a whole host of products for home buyers, including competitive rates for first-time home buyers, and programs specifically designed for younger buyers just leaving college who may be carrying student loan debt. The local branch has a mortgage loan specialist in store, and we provide educational support both in person and online.”

SBO: How many people are working at this branch?

Marion Colombo: “We have a total of eight employees at this new store, including the store Manager Clay Rogers, who has been with the company for five years. We have ample regular tellers to make banking convenient.”

SBO: What’s the ATM situation like?

Marion Colombo: “We have two drive-through ATMs, and one inside the branch. They are called smart ATMS, which means they allow you to select the denominations of bills you want at the point of transaction. We also print EMV (chip-enabled) debit cards right on the spot, so you don’t have to wait for it to

arrive in the mail. There are ten stores in the city, and many of the surrounding neighborhoods, and we have 143 ATMS in Boston-area Walgreens locations.”

SBO: Are there any special offers for new Customers?

Marion Colombo: “We are running a promotion from now until November 18th. New customers who open a checking account can earn up to $300 for meeting certain requirements.

Additionally, new customers can enter for a chance to win 10 tickets to the Boston Celtics vs. Houston Rockets game on Thursday, December 28th. The drawing will be on October 31st and the winner does not have to be present at the drawing.”

SBO: What are the hours of the new branch?

Marion Colombo: The bank is open seven days a week, Monday thru Thursday 8-6, Friday 8-7, Saturday 9-2, Sunday 11-3, and we have 24/7 online and phone support. Here’s a little secret. We usually open the doors ten minutes before and keep them open ten minutes after to provide a cushion for late or early arrivals, which helps commuters in the city when they need to do in person transactions.”

SBO: Are there any community initiatives that TD Bank has planned for the neighborhood?

Marion Colombo: “We have already met Ray Flynn! Clay has also met with the local chamber of commerce, and we have begun

relations already. We are involved in supporting the Boys and Girls Club, teamed up with the Celtics, extending from TD Bank’s partnership with both the teams at the Garden. We also plan on being involved in some walks or runs at Castle Island, including the 35th Annual Halloween celebrations. People taking their children to those celebrations

will see our Mascot greeting people and handing out candy.”

SBO: I guess that about wraps it up, so welcome to South Boston, and thank you for sharing all the information.

Marion Colombo: Thank you for offering us the opportunity to reach out to the community.

SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM THURSDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2017

South Boston TD Bank Branch Opens

by Rick Winterson The TD Bank Branch in South Boston opened Saturday, October 21 (306 West Broadway, corner of D).

The TD Bank bills itself as “America’s Most Convenient Bank” – hours are 8-6, Friday 8-7, Saturday 9-2, Sunday 11-3. TDbank.com; 1-888751-9000.

It was quite the gala event that took place last Saturday during the four hours between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. It marked the formal opening of the TD Bank Branch at the intersection of D Street and West Broadway. And yes, drive-through capability and bank lot parking are available to TD Bank customers.

You might be familiar with the name TD Bank because it is the sponsor of the TD Garden, an indoor arena near North Station – still called “Boston Garden” by some or simply “the Garden”. The TD Garden hosts a large variety of athletic and entertainment events. And TD Bank also has a half-dozen other branches in and around the City of Boston.

Now, South Boston has a TD Bank Branch of its own at D and Broadway.

In addition to conducting normal banking business last Saturday, the TD Bank Branch had games in its parking lot, refreshments and giveaways of all kinds, and “meet-and-greet” sessions in the bank’s new quarters.

A large crowd of prospective customers were on hand; many opted to open accounts on the spot.

Perhaps you should drop by to see what TD Bank can offer you.

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THURSDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2017 SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM

2017 Gavin Dinner a Real Celebration

Josie is the youngest guest

by Rick Winterson The Gavin Foundation’s 2017 Anniversary Dinner was a dinner, of course – a true “Gratitude Dinner” that marked the 55th Anniversary of Gavin House. It was also an awards night (four of them, actually), an opportunity to listen to stories of successful recovery, an excellent meal to enjoy, and a group of guests who generated an atmosphere of good fellowship throughout the evening.

The Gavin’s event at the IBEW Hall on Freeport Street last Thursday demonstrated that recovery is not just possible, it’s also a joy. As proof of this, a model AA Meeting was conducted by Michael (the Chair), Cali, and Jimmy.

Something over 400 guests assembled on Thursday evening, October 19. The sound of laughter, sober conversation, and general good cheer dominated the early evening, as the feasting began – tacos, chips, and various Tex/Mex dips. The sit-down dinner of chicken, roast

beef, mashed potatoes, and green beens – preceded by a vinaigrette salad – was skillfully prepared and served by members of the IBEW. Your own mother could not have done it better, even if she had invited Sunday guests to come over. Muchanticipated raffle prizes were given out.

Gavin Foundation President John McGahan then began the evening’s program. He himself presented a much-deserved “Residents’ Award” to Karen Pressman, the Director of Planning and Development in the Office of Substance Abuse Services at the Commonwealth’s DPH. Two scholarships were then awarded: Joe Kelleher from the Hamilton House presented the “New Beginnings” Scholarship to Roscoe Hurley; Margaret Lynch presented the “Caring Hearts” Scholarship (in memory of Eddie Shaughnessy) to Jimmy Green. Peter Barbuto closed the program by presenting the “James F. Gavin Award” to Paul Hurley, who is the Coordinator of IBEW Local 2222’s M.A.P. – the Membership Assistance Program.

The “recovery beat” goes on.

September was National Recovery Month.

The Gavin celebrated with awards and a Comedy Night. And please reserve Thursday evening, December 14, for a Gavin Christmas get-together - including a visit from Santa Claus - at the McKeon Post in Dorchester.

Margaret Lynch presents the Caring Hearts Scholarship to Jimmy Green.

Gavin President John McGahan introduces his three dinner speakers – Cali, Jim, and Mike.

Gavin President John McGahan presents the Resident Award to Karen Pressman.

Roscoe Hurley receives a New Beginnings Scholarship from Joe Kelleher.

SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM THURSDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2017

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City Councilor Annissa EssaibiGeorge Endorses Ed Flynn

Honored guest Congressman Steve Lynch congratulates Roscoe Hurley on his scholarship.

Willie Ostiguy, Joyce Linehan, Susan Bradley, and Gavin President John McGahan welcome the 2017 Dinner guests.

Paul Hurley receives the James F. Gavin Award from Peter Barbuto at the Gavin Dinner.

An overflow, standing-room-only crowd at the 2017 Gavin Anniversary Dinner.

Ed Flynn, candidate for Boston Public Schools parents raising kids City Council District 2, has in the city, Ed and I share the same been endorsed by Boston City priorities – ensuring all children Councilor At-Large Annissa have access to a high quality Essaibi-George. Essaibi-George, a education, keeping our streets and former teacher and small business parks safe and clean, and ensuring owner, represents each of Boston’s that families and seniors can neighborhoods on the Council continue to afford to live in each and was first elected in 2015. of our neighborhoods. Ed has the Many know her for her experience, dedication, and vision work as Vice Chair of the to make a real difference for Boston, City Council’s Education and I look forward to working Committee and from her with him on the City Council.” work on addiction, recovery, Flynn said, “It’s an and homelessness at City incredible honor to have Hall. Councilor Essaibi-George Annissa’s support. She has said, “I’m proudly supporting Ed been a citywide leader on Flynn for Boston City Council. the real issues that impact I’ve known Ed and his family for Bostonians every day. From years, and I know how committed working to give every child in he is to each and every community Boston a quality education in District 2. Our kids have been to her tireless efforts to teammates in youth sports, and Ed make our streets safer and and I have spent countless hours healthier, she’s accomplished at ball fields and parks discussing so much for Boston’s working how we can make Boston better families and seniors.” for young families and seniors.”

She continued, “As Boston

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THURSDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2017 SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM

Reebok Store Opens at 25 Drydock And How!

by Rick Winterson South Boston Online found out about the opening of the Reebok Store – Reebok’s Flagship Retail Facility and its Signature Headquarters Store – at midday on Monday, October 23. The Store is located at Reebok’s new global headquarters, 25 Drydock Avenue, on the ground floor of the Innovation and Design Building in South Boston.

The opening was a sight to see – awesome crowds beyond count, and music spun by a Kiss 108 FM DJ, who seemed to be having more fun than anyone else. Refreshments were courtesy of Loco’s on West Broadway. Sneakers are obviously athletic shoes more than anything else – check their categories like “training”, “running”, and “classic”. So, the guests of honor were the Patriots’ Brandin Cooks and Olympic gymnast (and team Captain) Rose “Aly” Raisman from Needham. Reebok President Matt O’Toole and US Retail VP

Adris and Lou, skilled custom shoemakers at Reebok. Read about Adris below.

Paul Froio enthusiastically took part in the Store’s opening as well.

One of the most interesting and unique features of the Flagship Reebok Boston Store in South Boston is what’s called the “YourReebok Customization Shop”. Turn right as you enter the main door on the promenade at 25 Drydock, and look for this

workshop. You’ll have entered the only Reebok store anywhere that offers customized versions of their footwear and apparel, which you can design and specify yourself, and which can often be ready for you in a matter of minutes.

Going into the shop led this writer to an unusual (and heartwarming) story. I asked one of the craftsmen named Lou, who was working at the fabrication table,

if I should call him a “cobbler” in my article. He replied, “That’s a very good question.”

After thinking for a bit, Lou said, “How about calling us shoemakers?”

I then said, “Let’s make that ‘custom shoemakers’.” He agreed.

Lou then introduced me to a man named Ardris, who was working at a shoemaker’s last. It turns out that Ardris is an immigrant, originally from Syria. He had put six of his family through school, even though he himself never even learned to read. When the revolution broke out in Syria, Ardris emigrated to Turkey, but that country has become very harsh on immigrants.

Early this year, Ardris was allowed to immigrate here. Reebok, to their credit. hired him, even though Ardris did not know a word of English. But he can make shoes.

Ardris is a cheerful, hard-working man, who is grateful to be here.

In the middle of Reebok’s marvelous opening celebration last Monday, I quietly thought to myself, “Only in America.”

SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM THURSDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2017

Interesetd in Joining the Catholic Chruch?

RCIA and You St. Brigid and Gate of Heaven Parishes invite you to Consider the RCIA Program starting soon

I n 1972 when the Vatican published the Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA), it provided a template of spiritual and educational formation by which adults can be brought into the Catholic Church. In particular, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) encourages RCIA programs to incorporate Mass attendance, and other methods of parish involvement, in addition to the educational and spiritual development that already occurs during the weekly RCIA classes.

The ultimate focus of this process is that those who enter the RCIA program are prepared to enter fully into the Catholic Church at the Easter Vigil, entering both spiritually into the Body of Christ, but also physically

into a vibrant local community.

Here within the Archdiocese of Boston, the RCIA program is broken into four stages and is run primarily at the parish level, with various parishes coming together towards the end of their program to present the prepared candidates to Cardinal O’Malley before they are received into the Catholic Church. While candidates come from various backgrounds, faith traditions, and have their own individual reasons for seeking admittance into the Catholic Church, it is at this Archdiocesan event that their readiness to enter into the Catholic Church is affirmed. The RCIA program invites any adult who has never been Baptized along with those in the Catholic Faith who have not yet received First Communion or Confirmation and other Christians who have been Baptized and would like to be welcomed in Full Communion with the Catholic Church. The program runs from October

29th to the Easter Vigil on April 1, 2018. Classes are held Sunday mornings from 10:15AM until 12:30PM. At the conclusion of the program at the Easter Vigil - the candidates will be Baptized or be received into the Church, they will receive Holy Communion for the first time, and they will be Confirmed into full membership in the Catholic Church. The Gate of Heaven and St. Brigid Parish collaborative invites anyone interested in joining the Catholic Church next Easter to contact Robert Degre at 617-268-3344, or atrpdegre@ gmail.com for more information.

SBCHC Youth Amabassadors In partnership with Medicine Wheel Productions, the Youth Ambassadors recently spent an evening creating painted panels which will be combined with hundreds of other panels to form a mural dedicated to raise awareness of AIDS, to remember people who have died and to inspire positive acts.

The mural will be displayed for 24 hours during Medicine Wheel’s Annual Day Without Art event on December 1st at the Cyclorama – Boston Center for the Arts. The Annual “Day Without Art” began on December 1, 1989 as the national day of action and mourning in response to the AIDS crisis.

As part of their initiative to become involved in the community and help others, Youth Ambassadors welcomed the opportunity to learn about the history of a Day Without Art from Medicine Wheel Production’s Founder Michael Dowling. The colorful panels the teens created represent their commitment to remember those that have died or are suffering from the devastating effects of AIDS/HIV.

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THURSDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2017 SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM

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SBCA News

The students in K2A and K2B at South Boston Catholic Academy went apple picking at Honey Pot Apple Orchard in Stow. Each child picked delicious apples, enjoyed a fun hay wagon ride, visited with the farm animals and of course picking and eating some delicious apples! Back at school the students had yummy apple cider and the famous apple cider donuts. Thank you to all who made this fun field trip possible.

South Boston Catholic Academy is an academically rigorous, supportive Catholic Elementary School Accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEAS&C).

Inspired by the traditions of our Catholic Faith, Family, and

Academic Excellence, we are committed to meet the spiritual, academic, physical, and social needs of individual students within a learning environment that is both stimulating and supportive.

South Boston Catholic Academy (www.SBCatholicAcademy.org) is currently accepting applications for all classes PreK-Grade 6. We have Before School and After School Programs available and have small class size; high acceptance rate to Parochial, Private and Boston Exam Schools. Please contact; Mrs. Barbara Keohane with any questions or for a tour of the School at b.keohane@ sbcatholicacademy.org or phone 617-268-2326 for more information.

SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM THURSDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2017

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