THE PRINT EDITION
THURSDAY, MAY 4, 2017
“May your dreams be larger than mountains and may you have the courage to scale their summits.”
VOLUME XVIIII - ISSUE 13
Remembering South Boston’s World War I Heroes Last Saturday at 11 a.m., a solemn 100th Anniversary Commemoration of South Boston’s Heroes - those who made the ultimate sacrifice in World War 1 (1917-1919) - took place in South Boston’s (EXCEL) High School. by Rick Winterson Many historic, memorable threads came together last Saturday. One hundred years ago this April, U.S. participation in World War I began. After week-long deliberations, both Houses of Congress granted President Woodrow Wilson permission to declare war on Germany, which he did at mid-day on Friday, April 6, 1917. World War I ended on Armistice Day on Monday at 11 a.m., November 11, 1918 (the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month). It was a massive, all-out war, in
no small part due to the shattering power of its weapons – weaponry that had never been used, nor had even been seen before – poison gas, machine guns, airborne bombs, armored tanks, exploding artillery shales (not just cannonballs), and so on. World War I was dubbed “The Great War” and “The War to End All Wars”; casualties – both military and civilian – were close to 20 million (20,000,000) souls. Here in South Boston in 1932, a twenty-foot cabinet containing 103 Memorial Portrait photographs of South Boston’s dead – killed in action in World War I - was dedicated by General Edward Logan, a South Boston native himself. In his remarks, Logan spoke tellingly of South Boston’s allegiance to America and our willingness to serve her. It is now 100 years after “The Great War”; April, 2017, was its Centennial month. Through the efforts of the South Boston World War I Commemoration Com-
Thanks are due to the World War I Re-enactors and the Brotherhood of Tankers.
mittee, led by Chairperson Mary Ryan, a solemn commemoration of South Boston’s role in World War I took place last Saturday, April 29. It was a truly moving event.
attended by a contingent from the Brotherhood of Tankers, Abrams Company. A second contingent from the U.S. Coast Guard kept order during the Commemoration.
At 10 a.m., World War I artifacts, including an early tank and several Re-enactors gathered in the High School yard. These Re-enactors, in authentic military garb and gear, have worked to preserve World War I history for years. The tank came from the Collings Institute; it was
Over 200 residents of South Boston visited the display. At 11 a.m., they were called into the High School auditorium for the solemn Commemoration ceremony. The High School JROTC presented and then posted the Colors. The “HarContinued on Page 8
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THURSDAY, MAY 4, 2017 SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM
Opening Day for Little Leaguers
By Ray Flynn, Former Mayor of Boston and U.S. Ambassador to the Vatican Speaking at the opening baseball game of the South Boston Little League on Sunday, I told the young players that these ball fields are where they will learn life’s valuable lessons of sportsmanship, teamwork, loyalty and friendships. Many of the kids I played Little League baseball right here with or basketball at the Boys Club with have remained true friends with over these many years. Yes, times have changed, some of my former teammates and friends have passed away or moved out of Southie, but I have fond memories of all of
them which neither time or death can take away. Kids that I played ball with right here at Columbus Park almost 70 years ago, I see their grandchildren wearing a baseball uniform today with that same look of pride and enthusiasm on their faces. I see coaches here who are as committed in helping these kids as our coaches were. These players, coaches and parents were the main reasons why we were able to grow up in such great family neighborhoods in Boston. We may not have taken trips during the Summer to Cape Cod or had swimming pools, but we had loyal friends, people who cared and great sports programs to keep us busy. While chasing fly balls in right field during batting practice, I over heard coach Bill Collins tell one of the young players while pointing out to right field , “That’s Mayor Flynn out there. He was quite an athlete.” But a few minutes later when the ball went right between my legs for an error, I saw the same young boy looking at me and probably thinking to himself, what’s so special about him. Yes, the town has changed, our society has
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South Boston Online print edition is an independent newspaper published weekly by SouthBostonOnline, Inc. We welcome submissions and reserve the right to edit any and all submissions for publication. All photos, stories, artwork and advertisments are the property of SouthBostonOnline, Inc., and may not be reproduced without permission. Although we have a thorough editing process, we assume no liability for reporting or typographical errors that may appear. Editorials are collaborative opinions of the publisher and editors.
changed, but I saw something on that Little League field in South Boston that will never change. The dream and determination of a young boy and girl wanting to play baseball with other kids. These baseball fields are where kids learn valuable lessons about life. After the game, I walked along the beach to attend a party at the South Boston Yacht Club. The walk gave me a lot of time
to think back over the years about growing up. Family, friends, neighbors and sports. And watching these kids play baseball today or coaching Special Needs kids in the Challenge Baseball League and seeing all these dedicated coaches makes me believe that the future of our communities and country is indeed very hopeful and bright.
SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM THURSDAY, MAY 4, 2017
Shop, Save, Sip & Savor, at the South Boston Spring Stroll Celebrate Spring! South Boston Neighborhood Development Corporation and the South Boston Chamber of Commerce present the 3rd Annual South Boston Spring Stroll, Thursday evening May 11thstarting at 5pm. Come on out and stroll the neighborhood with your friends and family for an enjoyable evening, while supporting your favorite local South Boston businesses. This is a great time to start your Mother’s Day shopping!
Broadway – ending on the West Side (Municipal Parking lot area). Beverages and snacks will also be served outside of the Library as well as the Municipal parking lot area.
Shoppers can leisurely stroll along East and West Broadway and enjoy fabulous discounts, refreshments, and other promotions from unique boutiques, salons, and local artists. Start or end your evening with a bite to eat or beverages at one of your favorite restaurants or taverns.
The South Boston Neighborhood Development Corporation and the South Boston Chamber of Commerce invite all of our friends and neighbors to enjoy an evening of shopping, dining, music, and art– while supporting the local business community.
This one-night event begins at 5 pm outside of the Library with a Dixie Land Band who will be strolling along East and West
East Boston Savings will sponsor a balloon twister from 305 pm at their East Broadway Branch. Complimentary Pedicabs will be available from 6 - 9pm, to whisk you along East and West Broadway –to and from your favorite shops, salons, boutiques and restaurants, compliments of Dedham Savings.
This year’s over thirty nesses from Broadway
evening event boasts participating busithe East and West shopping district!
American Provisions, 613 East Broadway Arts Around the Corner Gallery, 317 E Street The Beauty Bar. 699 East Broadway Best Dressed, 489 East Broadway Bringing Up Baby, 633 East Broadway Capo Restaurant, 443 West Broadway Closet Connection, 553 East Broadway Covet, 391 West Broadway Cranberry Café, 704 East Broadway Dedham Savings, 636 East Broadway Dewluxe, 376 West Broadway East Boston Savings Bank, 708 East Broadway Friends of the South Boston Library, 646 East Broadway Fromage, 401 West Broadway Habit, 703 East Broadway The Handle Bar, 141 Dorchester Ave The Juice Box, 359 West Broadway Ku De Ta, 663 East Broadway Lapels, 415 D Street and 54 Old Colony Ave. Liberty Tax Service, 331 West Broadway Lincoln Tavern & Restaurant, 425 West Broadway Loco Taqueria & Oyster Bar, 412 West Broadway Miam Miam Macaronerie, 359 West Broadway Neatly Nested Design & Decor, 373 West Broadway The Playwright Bar, 658 East Broadway Pretty Reckless, 485 East Broadway Re/MAX Realty Plus, 738 East Broadway Roza Lyons, 709 East Broadway Sherwin-Williams Paint Store, 435 West Broadway Stapleton Floral, 635 East Broadway Stephi’s in Southie, 130 Dorchester Ave. Sweet Tooth Boston, 371 West Broadway Wears + Wares, 634 East Broadway
Open a checking account and get $100!* One more great reason to call South Boston home. Come in for a Free** & Easy Checking account and you’ll get: • $100 Cash Bonus • Free usage of other banks’ ATMs throughout the U.S.*** • No minimum balance or monthly fees • Free online bill pay and mobile banking Free & Easy Checking is only available at our East Broadway branch. So it really is another great reason to live in South Boston. Stop by or open an account online today.
636 East Broadway
*Offer good for one Free & Easy Checking account per customer. Offer expires December 31, 2017. Must be a new checking account relationship, defined as not having a checking account at Dedham Savings within the last six months. Must be opened with funds not currently on deposit at Dedham Savings. One $100 bonus per customer: $50 cash bonus will be deposited at account opening and $50 cash bonus will be deposited when customer’s first direct deposit is received. The value of the bonus is interest and subject to IRS and other tax reporting. No minimum balance required to receive bonus. **Free of monthly service and maintenance charges. Overdraft fees per item may apply. See Fee Schedule for details. Ask us for more information. All other bank fees may apply. ***If you are concerned about ATM surcharges by other banks, enroll in electronic statements and receive recurring direct deposits each statement cycle to have ATM surcharges rebated at the end of each statement cycle. Offer good at Dedham Savings’ South Boston branch only.
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THURSDAY, MAY 4, 2017 SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM
Sister Evelyn Visits by Rick Winterson
Nazareth. Some 15 years later in 1950, she returned to teach first grade at what is now the South Boston Catholic Academy. She taught first grade there for several decades – 45 years to be exact. She returned to the Motherhouse a few years ago, but still keeps in touch with her many friends here. And she visits here every year to keep up with her old acquaintances.
It is Spring in Nazareth, Kentucky, a small historic settlement a few miles north of the Kentucky town of Bardstown, which itself is also historic – the second oldest town in Kentucky and the onetime residence of Stephen Foster, as well as one of the first Roman Catholic outposts west of the Appalachians. The redbuds are in bloom, the pea plants that were set in February are now yielding small, tender spring peas, and those few cardinals that flew south have all returned, ready to nest.
Sister Evelyn Hurley, SCN, is visiting St. Brigid Parish and all her many South Boston friends this fortnight.
Nazareth, Kentucky, is an unincorporated geographic and postal location. It has been the site of the Motherhouse of the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth (SCN) for
almost two hundred years. The SCN was an order that was founded to help Catholic setllers who had migrated there after our War for Independence, mainly from Arch-
bishop John Carroll’s Archdiocese of Baltimore, Maryland. The Carroll family had prominent roles in the American Revolution, including the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Sister Evelyn Hurley, who was born and brought up in South Boston, left here at age 17 to join the Sisters of Charity of
Oh yes. Sister Evelyn turned 102 years of age this March 7. She is the oldest Sister of Charity of Nazareth, in an order known for the longevity of its members. She has been on Earth for more than half the time that her SCN Motherhouse has been in operation. Her health is excellent; her mind is sharp; and she is filled with a peaceful love of God. She returns to Nazareth, Kentucky, next week. Be sure to say hello to her if you see her before she leaves.
LOVE Your BLOCK, 2017 For several years, a clean-up program called “Boston Shines” got South Boston residents out of their homes for a spring neighborhood neatening. This tradition continues in 2017, but under a new name: “LOVE Your BLOCK”. It takes place next weekend – Friday, May 12, and Saturday, May 13. As you are reading this, the teams are being formed. Supplies and clean-up tools will be donated by the City of Boston. Your own neighborhood teams
will determine exactly where and what needs the most attention – a local park, sidewalks and curbs, a nearby square, whatever. Plan to take part; it’s truly enjoyable and worthwhile.Sign-up is simple. Register as a volunteer at: biy.ly/2017sign-up. QUESTIONS? - Simply contact the “LOVE Your BLOCK” team: (6170635-3308; www. Boston.Gov/LOVE.Your.BLOCK; LOVEYourBLOCK@Boston.Gov That’s all there is to it – see you there.
This is our block at the intersection of K Street and East Broadway, looking up K Street. How does your block look?
SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM THURSDAY, MAY 4, 2017
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Boston City Councilor At-Large Michael Flaherty calls for the implementation of an Interim Planning Overlay District (IPOD) to further Protect South Boston Under the New Zoning Changes of Article 68. Dear Director Golden, I write you with respect to the new South Boston zoning enacted last November. The expansion of Article 68 to all of South Boston was intended as a way to codify new development rules that would be fair to neighborhood residents, property owners, and developers alike. The goal, which BPDA staff worked so hard towards achieving, was to advance the City’s housing creation goals within a zoning code framework respectful of the day-to-day living conditions of South Boston residents, who have been significantly impacted by an unprecedented period of neighborhood development and residential expansion. The new zoning was intended to level the development playing field by regularizing the rules to allow for reasonable growth, while at the same time eliminating the need to resort to variances and the unpredictability of the zoning appeal process. To a great extent, the new rules did solve many of the problems associated with the antediluvian zoning scheme they replaced. Under your guidance and leadership, reasonable growth limits were put in place and arcane loopholes were closed. Required offstreet parking associated with new residential development, possibly the single most important issue to me and my South Boston neighbors, was moderately increased. While the new zoning is certainly an improvement of what had been in place, it is not perfect. Article 68 eliminated minimum lot size requirements and replaced previously existing low-density use restrictions (3F and R districts) with a single all-encompassing multifamily (MFR) district. The result is that large lots, where development had been limited by use or minimum lot size requirements, may now become the sites for development projects wholly inappropriate to the character of the immediately surrounding neighborhood. No zoning is perfect, and it is typically only through trial and error that any regulatory scheme, including zoning, can be improved. Flaws can be identified and corrected, while strengths can be enhanced and expanded. Given the level and intensity of frustration of my neighbors in South Boston, as voiced to me on an almost daily basis, I think we must take this opportunity to learn from the identified shortcomings in the expansion of Article 68, as well-intentioned and hard-worked as that effort was. Accordingly, I am requesting that the BPDA initiate the implementation of a new South Boston Interim Planning Overlay District, to remain in place for no more than one year, in order to subject certain higher unit count proposed projects to increased public review, while your staff assesses the strengths and weaknesses of Article 68 as implemented. In this way, technical corrections to South Boston’s zoning regulations can be carefully considered and drafted for future enactment, while IPOD protections will in the meantime ensure necessary scrutiny of projects that, while perhaps zoning compliant under the current scheme, may not be appropriate to immediately-surrounding neighborhoods. Please know that the hard work of BPDA staff in this effort, your leadership at the helm of the agency, and your and the Mayor’s commitment to improving Boston’s neighborhoods while growing our city’s housing sector, are acknowledged and greatly appreciated. Under the direction of your staff, and with the continued participation of members of the South Boston community, I am confident we will achieve a better South Boston zoning blueprint that will allow for reasonable and responsible growth, while preserving what makes South Boston such a special and unique place to live.
Very truly yours, Michael F. Flaherty
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THURSDAY, MAY 4, 2017 SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM
Rep Collins, House lead charge on Economic Opportunity for Persons with Disabilities
House Budget Includes Provision to Require Employment of Persons with Disabilities on State Contracts
In an effort to mitigate the staggering rate of unemployment for adults with disabilities in the Commonwealth, the Massachusetts House of Representatives, under the leadership and sponsorship of State Representative Nick Collins inserted language into its version of the state’s FY’18 budget that will require state sub-contractors to employ at least 10 percent individuals with disabilities. State Representative Nick Collins (D- South Boston) has spent the last four years crafting a solu-
tion that would address this economic disparity for more than 300,000 of the Commonwealth’s citizens who receive some form of disability assistance from the state or federal government but would rather be employed. The language was heartily endorsed by House Ways and Means Chairman Brian Dempsey and other members of the Legislature. The unemployment rate for SSDI recipients in Massachusetts, according to the most recent figures compiled by the Social Security Administration, was 80.7 percent. “That is much too high, and it’s an economic inequity that we cannot let stand” said Rep. Collins. “This bill is step one in correcting the dis-
“No Boston Olympics” Debuts nomics professor at Smith College, who had done extensive studies of the true costs and economics of hosting the Olympics.
“No Boston Olympics”, a factual telling of the effort to keep the 2024 Olympics out of Boston, by Chris Dempsey and Andrew Zimbalist. by Rick Winterson Last Friday, April 29, coauthors Chris Dempsey and Andrew Zimbalist introduced their newly published book, “No Boston Olympics” to the public. The occasion was a book signing; the locale was the Harvard Book Store at 1256 Massachusetts Avenue, just outside of Harvard Square. You might recall that there was an ill-fated plan to bring the Olympic Games to Boston in 2024. Dempsey was adamantly opposed to the disruption this would cause in Boston (no matter how well planned); Zimbalist is an eco-
There was an overflow crowd at the Bookstore, which is one of the few independent bookstores left in the vicinity of Boston. The commentaries by Dempsey and Zimbalist were right to the point, and they generated many pertinent questions and comments from the crowd. A book-signing ensued, with one interesting angle – Dempsey asked the audience to autograph his own copy of “No Boston Olympics”, so he would have a keepsake of the event. Basically, the Olympics would have generated extraordinary space problems in a compact urban area such as the City of Boston. More important, it would cost far more than the 630,000 population of Boston could afford (most Olympics lose large amounts of money – billions!). The stadium would have occupied the existing Widett Circle, and the Olympic Promenade would have extended over to the Waterfront and the Convention Center,
parity; creating economic mobility for the disability community, generating significant economic impact, and securing Massachusetts’ leadership in economic opportunity for all its residents.” The language calls for state subcontractors working in the areas of janitorial and custodial services, landscaping services, mailroom support, culinary arts, fleet management, manufacturing; trash removal, document destruction, electronic scanning of documents, facility management and other services to meet a threshold of 10 percent employees with disabilities upon being awarded a contract by a state agency.
field for individuals with disabilities who can, and are most importantly, able, to engage in full-time employment is a positive for the state,” said Christine Griffin, executive director of the Disability Law Center in Boston. “People should not be discriminated against from work opportunities just because they have a disability. That is wrong and we should not allow it to happen as a society.” The Senate now crafts its version of the budget, and then the legislature sends a final budget to the Governor for his signature. Continued efforts will be made to include is important legislation in the final version.
“Any effort that levels the playing thus closing off most roadways into our neighborhood, except for Seaport Boulevard and Kosciusko Circle. Another such idea – the race called Grand Prix Boston – would have presented similar difficulties, and merci-
fully died before it was born. South Boston Online plans to write a book review of “No Boston Olympics”. If you read it and would like to send us your own comments, we would appreciate that. Thank you in advance.
Co-authors Chris Dempsey (standing, r.) and Andrew Zimbalist address an overflow crowd at their “No Boston Olympics” book-signing in the Harvard Book Store.
SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM THURSDAY, MAY 4, 2017
T N Y E A V E OD T
WELCOME GOVERNOR CHARLIE BAKER and MASSPORT CEO THOMAS P. GLYNN for the dedication of
THE FLYNN CRUISEPORT BOSTON at THE BLACK FALCON TERMINAL AND
THE KICK-OFF OF THE 2017 BOSTON CRUISE SEASON “IT IS THE MARK OF BOSTON’S GREATNESS THAT THE HOPES WHICH UNITE US ARE MUCH STRONGER THAN THE FEARS THAT DIVIDE US.” RAYMOND LEO FLYNN MAYOR OF BOSTON 1984-1993
Thursday, May 4, 2017 10:30am Black Falcon Avenue, South Boston, MA 02210
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Continued from Page 1
Remembering Heroes
maniacs”, the South Boston Boys & Girls Club Band, played and sang the National Anthem. Michael Donovan, serving as the Commemoration’s emcee, opened the ceremony and conducted the Pledge of Allegiance. Fr. Robert Casey, Pastor of St. Brigid Parish, pronounced an Invocation. Congressman Stephen F. Lynch delivered welcoming and historic remarks. He focused on the comparisons between 100 years ago in
1917 and now in 2017. It is, unfortunately, still a war-torn world out there. Lynch presented two American flags, flown over the Capitol Building, to Kevin Conroy and Chair Mary Ryan for their efforts on the Commemoration. Molly Nickerson, a Junior in South Boston’s EXCEL High School, followed with her well-researched talk about women’s roles in World War I, which included female defense workers and 20,000 nurses, who served in combat hospitals in Europe. Com-
memoration Committee Chair Mary Ryan spoke of her efforts in historical investigation of the Memorial photographs in the High School. A recitation of “In Flanders Fields”, that iconic World War I poem by Lt. Col. John McCrae, was followed by a solemn Roll Call of the names on the Memorial Board. Each name was marked with a drum roll by Bob Valuzzi, Captain of the Westwood Fire Department and a member of the Greater Boston Firefighters Pipes and Drums. Staff Sergeant
Joseph A. Lee (USA), Major James F. Colvin (USMC), and Petty Officer 1st Class Edward Flynn narrated the names in turn, as the photographs were projected. Bugler Tommy Florentino rendered “Taps” at the end of the Roll Call; the Rev. Burns Stanfield of Fourth Presbyterian Church delivered a Benediction. Mark Walsh of The Harmaniacs played and sang“God Bless America”; Emcee Michael Donovan closed out the Commemoration. All in all, it was an extremely
SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM THURSDAY, MAY 4, 2017
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THURSDAY, MAY 4, 2017 SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM
Health Fair a Great Success “The day was productive for all involved on many levels.” By Kevin Devlin and Donna Hudson-Bryant On Thursday, April 27, the first Mary Ellen McCormack Community Health Fair was held at the development’s task force office. And it was a big success. This event was coordinated by the Mary Ellen McCormack Task Force, the South Boston Neighborhood House, and the Boston College School of Nursing students. This endeavor brought together a variety of resource organizations in the community, and as a result, community residents were able to meet with these agencies to see what kinds of support exist for families across their lifespan. Ethos’s SHINE (Service the Health Insurance Needs of Everyone) coordinator, Karen Hicks, provided free individual health insurance information for guests. Elliott Physical Therapy representatives discussed how to keep people moving and strong after injury or as a result of normal aging. FriendshipWorks offered volunteer resources for ending elder isolation, while additionally raising awareness about volunteer opportunities within the organization. Local WIC coordinator and the Boston Public Health Commission’s Let’s Get Healthy, Southie, provided informational brochures about healthy food choices, including cutting back on added sugar in common drinks. Tufts Dental School provided information about low-cost, quality dental care available to everyone in the Tufts dental clinic. Compass on the Bay distributed information about their local assisted-living and memory-care resident community on Columbia Road. Caregiver Homes Representatives reached out to people who are caring for family members at home. The Boston Housing Authority’s REACH representatives shared initiatives for improving the health of BHA residents. The South Boston Community Health Center represented community-based primary health care. The South Boston en Accion was present to raise awareness of community-building among
Latino families in the community. Kay Walsh from the South Boston Substance Abuse Prevention Collaborative provided information to families about reducing substance use amongst youth. Boston ABCD HeadStart workers distributed information concerning their local programs for preschoolers in the South Boston Community. Nursing students Milagros Avalo, Elizabeth Takash, and Gabby Zabbo spent the spring semester coming to know the community through blood pressure clinics, blood glucose screenings, home visits, and interviewing community organizations, members, and business owners, to gain insight into the health needs of the community. Working collaboratively with the Mary Ellen McCormack Task Force Executive Director, Carole Sullivan, and Carol Sullivan, the South Boston Neighborhood House Senior Advocate, these students organized the health fair to help connect community residents to the health resources that are available, while simultaneously connecting these resources to each other. The day was filled with positive energy where people got to know each other and connect in the same spirit of promoting health in the community. “The day was productive for all involved on many levels,” said Donna Hudson-Bryant, FNP-BC, clinical faculty at Boston College. “The Task Force space is a really wonderful community resource and it was terrific to fill it up with people for such a joyful purpose: keeping South Boston healthy. It was great to have representatives from all these wonderful agencies get to meet each other, which doesn’t always happen! The residents enjoyed finding out about what is available to them and the raffle was a big hit. The students gained invaluable experience working with this lively community and have grown as community health nurses. “We’d like to thank to Jake Manning from BPD District C-6 for sharing his knowledge of and connection with community members and their health needs,” HudsonBryant further stated. “Jake pro-
vided support to the organizers of the fair and was its unofficial photographer. Also our gratitude goes out to the South Boston Neighborhood House for its support for families in the South Boston community, Carol Sullivan for her compassion and commitment to South Boston, Daniella Vasquez, Family Engagement Advocate, and Carole Sullivan, for her tireless energy in promoting healthy living conditions in the Mary Ellen McCor-
mack
Housing
Development.
“Boston College plans to return to the development in the fall to resume blood pressure clinics and continue to appraise the community’s health needs,” she concluded. “Our goal would be to hold fall and spring health fairs here to continue to keep ourselves and the community up-to-date on existing resources to address these needs.”
Pictured at the health fair is (from left) Carole Sullivan, three BC studentnurses, and Donna Hudson-Bryant.
Pictured at the health fair is (from left) Donna Hudson-Bryant, Karen Hicks, Carole Sullivan, and Jake Manning,
SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM THURSDAY, MAY 4, 2017
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Meet Coach Joe Burke “I love the kids. I love coaching.”
By Kevin Devlin He likes to keep busy after work helping out with coaching and events such as the Donnie Higgins Memorial Tournament. He understands the importance of helping other coaches and league officials with the tasks at hand. He understands the importance of being a mentor and a role model to young student-athletes. And even though things get hectic and takes time and energy, he wouldn’t want it any other way. His name is Joseph “Joe” Burke. Joe, a lifelong South Boston resident, is the father of young Joe Burke. He also lives with his girlfriend, Lisa O’Neil, and her two children, Jerry and Lauren .He works at Emulate as an inventory control specialist. Joe grew up on Farragut Road and started skating in Arnie’s Army when he was three years old. He played in the South Boston Youth Hockey League (SBYHL) from mites all the way up to the national teams. Throughout the years his teams won state titles and competed on the national stage. He also played in the South Boston Little League for two years. Joe attended South Boston High School and graduated in 1991. He played on the varsity hockey team for four years and was coached by Tom Apprille and Richie Linehan. The team won the Boston City Championship title three times while he played and competed in the state MIAA tournament all four years. He’ll never forget losing to Bourne in the Eastern Mass Finals at the Boston Garden during his junior year. Joe was also on the varsity baseball team up at the Heights as a freshman, sophomore, and junior. He was utilized as a second baseman. Joe started coaching in the Little League minor league division in 2009 and started coach-
ing in the SBYHL in 2010. He is a certified USA hockey coach. He also refs house league games and conduct clinics with David Ivaska for the SBYHL. “I love the kids. I love coaching,” he said. “Someday I’d like to coach in high school. I like to work with kids. I try to do as much as possible to help because of guys like Billy Collins and other league officials who do so much. Although Joe enjoys coaching baseball his first love is hockey. “Hockey is a team sport,” he said. “…and is not an individual sport. It helps you build relationships, build friendships that will last from grade school all the way through life.” Joe understands that coaching is a tough job and challenging. “Kids need to get along with each other,” he said. “They need to respect each other, respect their coaches, and be able to take criticism. They need to accept constructive criticism as they learn the game. They’re growing up and in life you need to be tough. “Our bantam team just won the state tournament,” he said. “We presented the players with a game plan. They listened to what we had to say. They got the message and it paid off when they won. They were happy. It was awesome to see. They realized that hard work pays off. They realized what it’s about. They realized we were there to help them.” Joe is also involved in the Donnie Higgins Memorial Tournament which will be held this June at the Donnie Higgins outdoor rink behind the Murphy Rink. This year, teams from Charlestown, Dorchester, Braintree, Hyde Park, Milton, Quincy, and Weymouth, will be invited to compete against the local Southie squads. “Donnie was my first friend growing up on Farragut,” Joe said. “He was a special guy, a special friend, and so is his family. David Ivaska and I run the hockey part of tournament. Paul Kostas, Billy
Higgins Jr., Cathy Carter, Billy Grealish, Matt Savage, and Terry Long, are all involved in making this annual event a reality. The Higgins family appreciates what we do and we are looking forward to this June. “The tournament is for such a worthy cause,” he added. “We give so much back. Helped a girls’ hockey team from Braintree go to nationals. Helped the Hogan brothers. Bought equipment and
shirts for teams from Dorchester and Milton. Run the summer street hockey program at the outdoor rink.” Joe is a busy man, and besides coaching and other volunteer efforts, he never forgets, and always appreciates, life and family. “I love being a dad,” he concluded. “My son Joe will be attending Matignon in the fall and have the chance to attend a good school. I’m proud of him. He’s my world.”
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THURSDAY, MAY 4, 2017 SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM
Play Ball!
well as Ray Flynn, former mayor and Ambassador to the Vatican, were present to share this day with the players, parents, and Little League officials. Canton resident, Julia Minichiello, from Music Ball Entertainment, sang the national anthem, while longtime Little League coach, John Healey, recited the Pledge of Allegiance. “This is a great opportunity for all of you,” said Councilor Flaherty. “I hope you enjoy the challenge and have fun during the season.”
Little League season opens at Moakley Park By Kevin Devlin On Sunday, April 30, the South Boston Little League opened the 2017 season at diamond two in Moakley Park. Edward “Eddie” Flynn was the master of ceremonies. A lifetime resident, community activist, and basketball coach, Eddie, who is a candidate for the Boston City District Two council seat, was proud to help out with opening day festivities. Boston City Councilors Mike Flaherty and Annissa Essaibi George, as
“I’d like to thank the parents,” Councilor Essaibi George added. “It’s important that you keep your kids busy.” Ray Flynn, who like Councilor Flaherty, was a former Southie Little Leagueplayer,wasalsohappytobepresent at Moakley Park on opening day. “It’s great to be here,” Flynn said. “This is going to be a good for everyone to compete and meet new friends. Like the friendships I made in Little League your friendships will last a lifetime. Play fair and play hard. Be competitive and enjoy the challenge. South Boston represents family, loyalty and patriotism, so don’t forget that as you enjoy the games and forge memories that will last forever.”
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SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM THURSDAY, MAY 4, 2017
Sports Hall of Fame Scholarship Program The South Boston Sports Hall of Fame Scholarship Trust Fund announces their program for the year 2017. The fund will award up to eight (8) two thousand dollar ($2,000) degree scholarship grants and one (1) non-degree scholarship grant for one thousand ($1,000) dollars. Of the eight academic grants one will be funded by Massport, one by the “L” Street Brownies, one by Folan Waterproofing and Construction of Easton in memory of deceased members of the Folan family, one by the South Boston Youth Hockey Association in memory of John Cunniff, one by Sona Nichols in memory of Bob Nichols one by the “BucciChallenge” LLC charity fund, one by Eddie Sheehan and one by the Hall of Fame Trust Fund. The non-degree grant will be funded by Massport. The academic grants are for those students who reside in South Boston (02127), will graduate from high school in 2017 or have received a GED certificate since January, 2017 and plan to attend a school of advanced education or training in 2017.
The non-degree scholarship grant is for those students who reside in South Boston (02127), who will be not more than 25 years old in 2017 and plan to attend a school of advanced education or training in 2017. Examples of non-degree programs are computer training, cosmetology, nursing, culinary arts, auto mechanics or other technical or professional training programs approved by the board of trustees of the “FUND”. Complete details of each program are described on the scholarship application, which may be picked up at school, the South Boston Library, the Boys & Girls Club, the Tynan Community Center, or the Curley Community Center. Academic applications must be received by May 30, 2017 and non-degree applications by June 30, 2017 and must be forwarded to: Ed Buccigross South Boston SHOF Scholarship Trust Fund Curley Community Center 1663 Columbia Road South Boston, MA 02127
Girls’ Softball Opening Day On Saturday, May 13, from 10 a.m. until 12noon, at the Shore Road Field adjacent to the Francis L. Murphy Rink, the South Boston Girls Softball League will hold opening day ceremonies. After a brief speaking presentation, team pictures will be taken. The league begins play on May 15. On the same day, May 13, a league fundraiser will be held at the Seapoint Restaurant from 2 p.m. until 5p.m. Prizes, Bingo, and raffles will be part of the fundraising event. Tickets can be purchased online or at the door. Any questions, contact the league at: southbostongirlssoftball@gmail.com or www.southbostongirlssoftball.com
SB Sr. Babe Ruth Tryouts Tryouts for the 2017 Sr. Babe Ruth Baseball team will begin on Sunday, May 14th and Tuesday, May 16th at 6 p.m. at Fitzgerald Field at Moakley Park. If either tryout gets rained out there will be an additional tryout on May 17th at 6 p.m. Those who have turned 16 years old before May 1st of this year through those that turned 19 after Dec 31st of 2016 are eligible to play. The team is a member of the South Shore Sr. Babe Ruth League and plays a 16-18 game regular season schedule (Half Home/Half away) throughout the month of June and early July with playoffs to follow. There are multiple openings on this years roster, all we ask is that those trying out be able to commit to the majority of the games and practices as forfeits have become an issue over the last few seasons. Anyone with questions may contact team GM and South Shore League President
Buddy Lane at 617-269-1091.
2017 South Boston Pop Warner Football & Cheerleading Registration Information South Boston Pop Warner football and cheerleading will be holding registrations on:
Every Wednesdays in May 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM inside the Murphy Skating Rink 1880 William J. Day Blvd A through E registration fees will be $150 and F players will be $100. Registration Fee decreases by $25 for each additional child This registration is for both football and cheerleading. Players from previous years must sign up each year. No player or cheerleader is guaranteed a spot on a roster. The maximum team size is 35 and registrations are taken on a first come, first served basis. Waiting list will be formed once we reached 35 per team.
Paperwork Needed to Participate 1) An original birth certificate (no copies). Certified copies are on-file for players who participated on the A through E teams. No Tiny Mite players’ birth certificates were certified. 2) National Registration Form can be downloaded from our website www.SBPW.com. The form has to be totally completed with both the parent and players’ signature on the backside of the form. 3) National Medical Waiver can be downloaded from our website. The form has to be completed by a doctor or nurse practitioner and has to be dated after January 1, 2014. Physicals prior to January 1, 2017 will not be accepted. 4) Registration fee. 5) Copy of the June 2017 report card – which will be collected in the summer. You can still register if you do not have all items but you will need to submit all paperwork before your child will be all to practice.
Football - Age & Weights Older/Lighter Team Ages Weight Age Weight 11105105A 14 Unlimited *14 170 10B 12 90-155 13 90-109 C 9-11 75-130 12 75-94 D 8-10 60-115 11 60-79 E 7-8 45-100 **9 45-75 No Older / F 5-7 35-75 Lighter
Cheerleading - Ages Team
Ages
A
11-15
B C D E
10-12 9-11 8-10 7-8
F
5-7
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THURSDAY, MAY 4, 2017 SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM
SB Catholic Academy News
Second graders at South Boston Catholic Academy are preparing for to receive their First Holy Communion at Gate of Heaven with a retreat. Students began their day in fellowship and prayer at the St. Brigid’s chapel then moved to stations where they pressed grapes to make juice, baked wheat bread, created Communion reflection booklets and rosaries and even planted flowers to symbolized their relationship and life with Christ. South Boston Catholic Acad-
emy 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 617-2682326 for more information.
The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) and the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) Announce the Release of the Draft Environmental Assessment (EA) and Draft Section 4(f) Determination on the SOUTH STATION EXPANSION PROJECT This project is an effort to expand Boston’s South Station terminal and related layover capacity to meet future demand. FRA and MassDOT invite the public to comment on the Draft EA, prepared in compliance with the federal National Environmental Policy Act, and Draft Section 4(f) Determination for the South Station Expansion project. The document summarizes the project’s environmental benefits and impacts, and includes information similar to the DEIR (2014) and FEIR (2016), prepared in compliance with the Massachusetts Environmental Policy Act. To read the report and to learn how to make formal comments, please visit the project website listed below. Comments are due by May 27, 2017.
www.mass.gov/MassDOT/SouthStationExpansion If you have questions about the project, please contact Steve Woelfel, MassDOT Office of Transportation Planning, at Steve.Woelfel@state.ma.us or at 857-368-8889. For more information and to sign up for project updates, visit us online at the project website shown above. To request language services, please contact MassDOT’s Director of Civil Rights by phone at (857) 368-8580, TTD/TTY at (857) 368-0603, fax (857) 368-0602, or by email to MASSDOT.CivilRights@dot.state.ma.us.
Additions, New Construction, Roofing, Siding, Flat Roof Pro
Ron Doyle Construction South Boston MA 02127 Contractor Cell: 617-593-5732 Over 35 Years Experience
SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM THURSDAY, MAY 4, 2017
By the Warren Group Buyers Phuong K Do Michael Polacco Minh D Dang Thu H Nguyen Vu Nguyen Kim C Pham Ryanne Tannenbaum Catherine Haynes Christopher J Moran James R Arredondo CD Farragut Road RT CD 394 K Street RT 42 North Capital LLC Vivek Yadav Richard H Cobb Aaron M Rissler Severin J Ritchie David Femia Paul Gendron Matthew R Murawski Alex Gilman Eric D Michel Timothy Winn Domonic A Rollins Robert Savidge Alexandra A Jackson LLC Bryant Leung Nathaniel Koslof Leah M Carlsen Andrew Yau Lorrie Carr Christopher D Hughes Brian T Drummond Kifle D Gebre Gustavo Z Velozo Ashley E Young Bruce J Giantonio
Address City 20 Dix St #24 Dorchester 8 Coleman St Dorchester 18 Whitten St Dorchester 37 Everdean St Dorchester 36 Ashland St Dorchester 12 Newhall St Dorchester 154 W 3rd St #154 South Boston 283 W 2nd St #4 South Boston 773 E 5th St #1 South Boston 8 Leeds St #3 South Boston 145 Farragut Rd #3 South Boston 394 K St South Boston 115 G St South Boston 773 E Broadway South Boston 795 E 4th St South Boston 801 E 4th St #801 South Boston 53 Thomas Park #2 South Boston 47-51 Dorchester St #13 South Boston 406-408 E 3rd St #6 South Boston 6 Vinton St #3 South Boston 261 W 5th St #1 South Boston 451 W 4th St #2 South Boston 541 E 1st St #2 South Boston 27 Elm St #2 Dorchester 48 Coffey St #9A Dorchester 346-354 Congress St #312 Boston 767 Dorchester Ave #2 Dorchester 360 W 2nd St #13 South Boston 401 W 1st St #202 South Boston 135 Athens St #201 South Boston 275 Old Colony Ave #10 South Boston 768 E 5th St #1 South Boston 633-R E 2nd St #633R South Boston 488 Dorchester Ave #2J South Boston 275 Old Colony Ave #2 South Boston 39-41 Bishop Joe L Smith Way #10 Dorchester 893 E 2nd St #1 South Boston
Date: April 10-14. Price $145,000 $480,000 $350,000 $465,000 $449,000 $820,000 $680,000 $295,000 $357,500 $340,000 $500,000 $910,000 $2,055,000 $1,900,000 $1,600,000 $590,000 $620,000 $510,000 $1,025,000 $485,000 $574,000 $617,500 $302,000 $391,500 $310,000 $536,250 $455,000 $675,000 $1,125,000 $685,000 $665,000 $1,049,000 $1,410,000 $206,100 $730,000 $270,000 $1,475,000
Date 04/12/17 04/14/17 04/11/17 04/13/17 04/12/17 04/11/17 04/12/17 04/13/17 04/14/17 04/11/17 04/14/17 04/14/17 04/10/17 04/13/17 04/14/17 04/11/17 04/12/17 04/10/17 04/14/17 04/13/17 04/12/17 04/14/17 04/14/17 04/10/17 04/10/17 04/11/17 04/13/17 04/14/17 04/13/17 04/10/17 04/11/17 04/12/17 04/12/17 04/12/17 04/13/17 04/14/17 04/14/17
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THURSDAY, MAY 4, 2017 SOUTHBOSTONONLINE.COM