What we saw at Suffolk Downs on Saturday, June 29: The last weekend at the East Boston track

More at EastBoston.com

August 14: GOP Ward Committee to meet

This just in:

The East Boston Ward 1 Republicans will meet Tuesday evening, August 14, 2018 at Jeveli’s Restaurant at 6:00 p. m.  

We will be discussing committee Chairman Joe Steffano’s ideas for ward committee publicity and engagement with the East Boston community.  

We are looking forward to having Mike Pollack of the Mass Victory office join us for this meeting.  A representative of the Beth Lindstrom campaign might join us as well.  

Registered Republicans and un-enrolled voters are cordially invited to attend.  We look forward to seeing you there.  

For more information please call Chris Morton at (617) 569-4075.

What's Happening at the Library in East Boston this month

Check out what’s happening at the East Boston Branch Library

Family Story Time 
This weekly story time features books, songs, and movement. Tuesdays at 11:15 a.m. (runs through May 24. No story time on May 10). For ages 2-5 accompanied by an adult. 

Baby Lapsit 
Join us for bounces, rhymes, stories and activities. Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. (runs through May 25). For children under 2 accompanied by an adult. 


Countdown to Kindergarten Playgroup
Fridays at 10 a.m.
For children 1-5 years of age.Moms, dads, grandparents and other caregivers are welcome! Children will start to build on their school readiness skills.Para niños de 1 hasta 5 años. ¡Damos la bienvenida a los padres, los abuelos y otros adultos que cuiden a los niños! ¡Los niños comienzan a desarrollar sus habilidades de preparación para la escuela!


Need Homework Help?
Come to the library’s free homework help program. High school students help children in grades K – 8, Monday through Thursday from 3:30 – 5:30 p.m.
A Boston Public School teacher provides homework help on Mondays and Thursdays from 4 – 6 p.m. No registration is necessary. 


Drop-In Tech Help for Adults & Seniors
Mondays from 1 p.m.-2 p.m. Tech confusion? We can help! If you have questions about a laptop, Chromebook, Android or iPad tablet, Kindles and eBook readers, iPods, or about smartphones of all sorts, drop by with your fully-charged device and we can help you learn a new technique or trick to get your tech device working for YOU!


Yu-Gi-Oh Club -meets every Saturday from 1:30-3:30. 

English Conversation Groups Mondays at 6:30 and Tuesdays at 1 p.m.
Come practice speaking English with our conversation group.  It meets  meet on Mondays.These groups are free and open to the public.  No registration needed.


Monday Night Knit-in at the East Boston Branch Library
First Monday of the month at 6 p.m.
Unwind with your knitting at this monthly drop-in knitting session. Join us to meet new people, share ideas, get tips, learn from each other and have fun! Bring a project to work on. All skill levels welcome.

USCIS Information Session at the East Boston Branch Library
Thursday, March 22nd from 3-6
In this drop-in session, a USCIS (Citizenship and Immigration) officer will answer questions about immigration issues, including:
An Officer will provide information and answer your questions about: • Naturalization and Citizenship • Permanent residency •Immigration benefits •Avoiding immigration scams • Finding low-cost and safe legal advice NOTE: Staff will not address case specific inquiries. If you need case-specific information, call USCIS Customer Service Center at 1-800-375-5283 or visit your local USCIS office.


ESL Intermediate English Class
Thursdays, 12:30 p.m. -3:00 p.m.
This is an adult ESL Intermediate English class for people with some English experience. Registration is required. To register and for more information, please visit us, call 617.859.2446, or email literacyservices@bpl.org. Classes are free.

Karaoke Coding for Teens
Wednesday, March 7th at 5 p.m.
Join us in celebration of Teen Tech Week as the Rhode Island Computer Museum leads us in a coding workshop that uses portable mics and free coding software. Teens will use drag-and-drop "code blocks" and create interactive stories, animations, and sounds. By the end of the session, teens will have learned how to make their very own beat box.

Ready, Set, Start Your Seeds!
Saturday, March 10th from 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.
Join Eastie Farm and the Bremen Street Community Garden to get ready for growing season. Plant seeds from our seed library, including leafy greens, veggies, and herbs. Take home your very own mini tray of good green growing things! For all ages!

Amulet and Good Luck Charm Workshop
Wednesday, March 14th at 3:30 p.m.
We will be creating small wearable bags of amulets and good luck charms.  Materials will be provided.  However, if you have a special trinket or charm of your own, bring it along and we can help you incorporate it into a wearable piece.  You are also welcome to add small notes of intention or inspirational quotes. For ages 6 and up


Let Freedom Ring! Music and Poetry of Black History
Thursday, March 15th at 6 p.m.

Bright Star Theater presents a powerful production that takes every audience member on a journey through African American history and culture. Follow the journey from Africa through slavery to the Civil Rights Movement and the powerful voices of today’s leaders. Hear Frederick Douglass, Sojourner Truth, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Maya Angelou, and more. 


For information any of these programs, call or come in to the East Boston Branch Library, 365 Bremen Street, (617) 560-0271.

Mayor Walsh announces 9 organizations selected to receive funding through "My Brother's Keeper Mini Grant Program"

Second round of MBK mini grant funding to support local organizations working to provide opportunities and mentorship to young men of color

Representatives from MBK Boston and the nine selected organizations at the Bolling Building

BOSTON - Thursday, July 20, 2017 - Mayor Martin J. Walsh and My Brother's Keeper Boston, in partnership with The Boston Foundation, yesterday announced the nine organizations in Boston have been selected to receive a combined total of $50,000 in funding through the My Brother's Keeper mini-grant program. 

The program, which launched last August, is designed to support local organizations and entities who work to help maximize MBK's impact in improving outcomes for young men of color. "We know that our young people need opportunities to thrive, and MBK paves for way for young men of color to succeed. This grant program supports mentorship, creative discussions and activities by nonprofits and organizations," said Mayor Walsh. "I congratulate all of this round's grant recipients, and look forward to our continued partnership to ensure our young men have every opportunity to thrive." 

"MBK Boston is proud to promote a collective action agenda to uplift black and brown boys," said Conan Harris, Executive Director of My Brother's Keeper Boston. "The MBK mini grants will enhance programming, connect grassroot efforts, and disseminate the promising practices of our local on-the-ground partners who know our neighborhoods and young people." 

The following organizations were selected to receive awards: 

1. No Books No Balls Summer Basketball Camp Project (Roxbury): Funding will be used to support the hiring of young adults during the summer to assist with the annual summer basketball camp.

2. Level Ground MMA (Downtown): Funding will be used to support the Student Trainer Certification program, which provides a career pathway for youth into Boston's Fitness Industry. 

3. Latino STEM Alliance (Citywide): Funding will be used to support training for Robotics instruction through a Novel Engineer program, which integrates quality literature with the engineer process.  

4. Freedom House (Dorchester): Partnership with Ambitious Men Engaged in Necessary Dialogue (AMEND) to provide bi-weekly social and emotional sessions to address challenges facing young men and to build self-efficacy and professional development skills. 

5. East Boston High School & Pioneer Charter School of Science Sailing Team (East Boston): Funding will support the East Boston High School Sailing team, one of the only BPS high schools with a sailing team and which is comprised of primarily Latino BPS students; and exposing them to opportunities for sports programming that require a diverse set of skills 

6. Inquilinos Boricuas En Accion (South End): IBA's Youth Development Program prepares teens, ages 14-18, for college and professional careers through an employment-based program that places them in rigorous courses centered on Creative Youth Development.  

7. Caribbean Youth Club (Hyde Park, Dorchester, Mattapan, Roxbury): Caribbean Boys' Initiative helps Caribbean immigrant boys understand positive masculinity, build tangible life skills and achieve academic success. This group provides structure, discipline, challenges, positive peer bonding and male mentoring. 

8. Project Right (Roxbury, Dorchester): Boys R.I.G.H.T will provide group discussions, individual follow up and mentoring for 40 middle and high school young men of color who are involved with the Grove Hall area of Roxbury and Dorchester. 

9. Brunch and Ball Youth Mentoring Program (Dorchester): Professionals from the Boston area speak to teens from 13-19 years old about various topics of personal growth and self-development, with a focus on graduating high school and going on to college or post-secondary education. Athletic interaction with the teens is utilized to teach them to practice sportsmanship in the face of adversity, while lectures and workshops on professionalism and academic achievement are designed to equip them with life skills. 

"We are pleased to continue our partnership with Mayor Walsh in the My Brother's Keeper Initiative," said Orlando Watkins, Vice President of Programs for the Boston Foundation. "This roster of grantees again demonstrates the creative and diverse ways that community organizations are working to expand opportunities for young men of color in the city - and we commit our continued support."

 "Madison Park Development Corporation (MPDC) received a mini grant from the City of Boston's MBK initiative," said Abrigal Forrester, Director of Communication Action, MPDC, which received a grant through the previous cycle. "This funding has provided additional support for MPDC's efforts to serve black and brown boys participating in our youth workforce programs. 

Through this funding we conducted focus groups and feedback sessions with young males, which is guiding the program deliverables for MPDC's Youth Empowerment & Advancement Mentoring (YEAM) program going forward." 

ABOUT MBK BOSTON Mayor Martin J. Walsh launched MBK Boston in September 2014, accepting President Barack Obama's MBK Community Challenge as part of the White House My Brother's Keeper (MBK) initiative to create positive pathways for youth, especially boys and young men of color. Over the past two years, Mayor Walsh established the MBK Boston Advisory Committee which led engagement within the community and developed a set of guiding recommendations to support milestones across education, employment, public safety and second chances. To learn more about MBK Boston or to get involved, visit boston.gov/mbk.

This just in: Boston East Now Accepting Applications for Artist Live-Work-Sell Apartments

Boston, MA (May 30, 2017) – Trinity Financial and the East Boston CDC announced today that applications are now available for BPDA-certified artists interested in affordable live-work-sell units at the Boston East development.

Located directly on the waterfront in the heart of East Boston, Boston East is a $71 million boutique, mid-rise residential community that features 200 units, including 20 affordable units and six artist live-work-sell units that will be made affordable to individuals and families earning up to 70 percent of Area Median Income. Boston East also features a large, first floor gallery that overlooks the harbor and will showcase work from local and regional artists.

“We’re excited to announce that we now have applications available for artist live-work-sell units at Boston East – a space that provides artists with the opportunity to live in a welcoming environment that fosters creativity, community and the arts,” said Abby Goldenfarb, vice president at Trinity Financial. “Because of its outstanding amenities, eclectic design and ideal location, Boston East is the perfect complement to the thriving arts scene in East Boston.” 

The six artist live-work-sell units will be located on the first floor of Boston East, and they are designed to meet the unique needs of artists through highly-amenitized, spacious apartments, flexible floor plans, and an abundance of natural light. Apartments feature the latest amenities, including GE slate appliances, plank flooring, quartz countertops and custom walk-in closets by Elfa. Artists will also have access to a community gallery and outdoor patio spaces attached to their units where they can sell their work.

For an opportunity to live in this exciting artist community, BPDA-certified artists must submit their completed applications by June 16, 2017. Income restrictions and artist form review apply. Applications are available at 31 Liverpool Street, East Boston, MA or by emailing BostonEastMgr@trinitymanagementcompany.com.

“East Boston is one of the most dynamic neighborhoods in the City, and the arts community is just one of the reasons why it is such a great place to live,” said Goldenfarb. “From local galleries and arts organizations to the ICA’s planned expansion, East Boston offers aspiring artists a rich cultural experience and an inspiring community of collaboration.”

Boston East, which is designed by Boston-based ICON Architecture, is ideally located next door to the Atlantic Works Gallery and the East Boston Artist Group studios at 80 Border Street. It features an acre of open space that includes a number of community outdoor spaces – including multiple decks and a large rooftop lounge. Boston East will also actively engage the waterfront through a harbor walk trail that extends around and past the development. Residents will also have access to onsite paddle boarding, a kayak launch, an indoor gym and a dog washing station.

The interior of Boston East will also feature designs by Los Angeles-based husband and wife duo Robert and Cortney Novogratz, who are known for their eclectic taste and unique style that has been shown on HGTV and in the collaboration with companies such as CB2. In this project, residents can expect the interior to reflect influences from Boston’s rich history and the nearby marinas and shipyards in a non-traditional way.

Trinity Financial is utilizing its vast experience in creating successful market rate luxury living spaces to develop a unique and desirable residential community at Boston East. Among the luxury communities Trinity Financial has developed or has currently in development include One Canal and Avenir, the Carruth and Treadmark buildings in Boston, 66 Summer Street and Vela on the Park in Stamford, CT and Foundry Square in Newburyport.


About Boston East

Located directly on the waterfront, steps from Maverick Square and Central Square, Boston East is a $71 million boutique mid-rise residential community that features 174 market-rate and 26 affordable units, including six artist live-work units. Boston East will allow residents to engage the waterfront through a kayak and paddle board launch and experience uniquely designed apartments and amenity spaces with striking water views. For more information, please visit www.bostoneast.com


Source: 
Laura Wareck
O’Neill and Associates
Vice President
Office: 617-646-1037 
Cell: 978-660-9587

May 21: Wounded Warriors Bike Run" TheyFoughtWeRide.com

Margaret Farmer announces candidacy for District 1 city council seat

At the invitation of EastBoston.com this week, Margaret Farmer provided the following statement: 

"I am proud to announce my candidacy for Boston City Council, District 1. As a longtime East Boston resident, and a president of the Jeffries Point Neighborhood Association for the past 5 years I have dedicated my time to working on the issues most important to us, including development and transportation.

I have received those 2 AM phone calls about a local fire, and the 7:30 phone calls about trash spread out across the street. I understand that a city councilor has a huge effect on the day to day lives of residents, and can promise that core city services will remain a strong priority while fighting to improve Charlestown, East Boston and the North End for current residents. I will work to promote intelligent, appropriate development while promoting transportation options and continued investments in our schools. At the same time, City Government can, and should, work better for all of our citizens."

Margaret Farmer, Candidate for City Council, District 1

Guest Column: Mayor Martin J. Walsh: Investing in East Boston

Investing in East Boston

By Mayor Martin J. Walsh 

This month, I am proud to put forth a budget for the City of Boston that will make Boston a better place to work, live, and raise a family. At City Hall, we’ve created a plan for our City that will keep Boston financially sound, while making targeted investments towards achieving a thriving, healthy and innovative Boston. Boston’s operating budget totals $3.14 billion, which represents an increase of $143.7 million (or about five percent) over last year’s budget. 

What does this mean for you, your friends and family? When we proposed the City’s budget, we did so knowing many in our City rely on the services we provide, whether it’s senior luncheons, homebuying workshops, recovery services or after-school programs for kids. We also funded projects to enhance our culture and identity such as increasing library services in neighborhoods and the Boston’s Artist in Residence program, which brings art to unexpected corners throughout Boston. Our budget continues to invest in Boston’s strongest asset: our people. 

The City’s budget is big -- that’s why I want to explain how it will affect your neighborhood. 

Community centers are one of the most important features of a neighborhood. Besides providing spaces for gathering, programming and events for children, they tie the community together in friendship and cooperation. The BCYF Paris Street Community Center is getting a major, $12.4 million multi-year renovation to better fit the needs of the East Boston neighborhood. The project includes additional programming space, a Teen Center, a new gym floor, a rock climbing wall and a new fitness area. Behind the scenes, all mechanical systems as well as boilers, windows, exterior and interior door replacements, athletic facility improvements, tele-data upgrades and new furniture and equipment will also be upgraded. 

The BCYF Paris Street Pool is also getting a $5 million investment, $520,000 of which is slated for fiscal year 2018. Renovations include upgrades to the mechanical systems, bathrooms and locker rooms, pool deck, lighting and entry. Noyes Park is also in store for a $3.1 million rehabilitation so that your public space works better for you. 

At the heart of East Boston, Central Square is receiving a $7.85 million investment for urban redesign and improvements with $2.28 million dedicated for FY18 to complete construction. East Boston High School is also getting $4.7 million for new windows. 

It’s our goal that our local improvements tie in to our ultimate goal of improving the safety, accessibility and sustainability of our city while also making it an enjoyable and affordable place to live and work. The short and long term investments are intended to lift up our neighborhoods in ways that take into account the needs and wants of the community. With this budget, we’re preparing our city for the next year, and the years forward. 

What’s the next step for the budget? This month, I submitted the City of Boston’s budget to the Boston City Council, where your City Councilor will review the proposed budget. Once the budget is approved, it will go into effect. This is the budget for fiscal year 2018, meaning the budget will take effect in July 2017, and run throughout the next 12 months. 

I hope you’ll take a few minutes to look through the budget proposal, online at budget.boston.gov. Together, I look forward to investing in our neighborhoods, and our people. 

May 8: The Mayor's East Boston Open House at EBHS

Feb. 23 Meeting: Friends of the East Boston Greenway with the EB Greenway Council

Thursday, Feb. 23, 2017
6:30 – 7:30 p.m.
Anna DeFronzo Center
395 Maverick Street, East Boston
Near the corner of Jeffries Street

AGENDA

1.  Introductions 

2.  Greenway Safety and Security Update 
Boston Police Dept. District A-7 Community Services Sergeant Martin and Officer Simons

3.  Greenway Flooding:  Galen’s proposal for elevated walkway; Galen was to discuss with Parks Dept.

4.  Greenway Extension to Belle Isle Marsh and Winthrop
Mark Warren
Gretchen Schneider Rabinkin

5.  New Business / Old Business

CALENDAR OF MEETINGS: All meetings on 4th Thurs at 6:30 PM

Upcoming meetings: 2017:
Feb. 23, 
Mar. 23, 
Apr, 27, 
May 25, 
June 22, 
July 27,       
Aug. 24, 
Sept. 28, 
Oct. 26, 
Nov. 16 (note change), 
Dec. TBD

Events at the East Boston Branch Library

Bhangra Dance for Teens and Adults
Join us for our Bhangra dance class Mondays, February 27 and March 6 from 6:30-7:30 p.m.
Bhangra has traveled around the world in pop culture, films and even electronic music.  Learn how to do bhangra dance, the traditional dance of the Punjab region of India.  We’ll celebrate our last class with traditional Indian refreshments, and students may choose to have their final class dance filmed to take home. 

Learn to Knit!
Learn basic knitting techniques and make your own blanket, hat or headband.  Bring your own needles and yarn - materials will not be provided. Knitting takes place on Mondays, February  28 and March 6th from 6-8. For teens and adults. Stop by the library or email mkelly@bpl.org for a list of suggested projects and supplies. 

English Conversation Group
Join us for English language practice with fellow language learners on Thursdays at 6:15 p.m. 

ESL Intermediate English Class
A weekly adult intermediate English class for people with some English experience.  Meets Friday mornings from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Mid-Winter  Storytimes at the East Boston Branch Library
Sing Along:  A weekly half hour of everyone’s favorite songs which meets on Tuesdays at 10:30 a.m.(Runs Feb. 7th-March 28th)   For all ages, accompanied by an adult.

Family Storytime on Tuesdays at 11:15 - This weekly storytime for ages 1-5, accompanied by an adult features books, songs movement, and a craft.  Groups please register in advance. (Runs February 7th-March 28th)

Baby Lapsit on Wednesdays at 10:30- Join us for bounces, rhymes, stories, songs, and activities.  For children under 2, accompanied by an adult. Runs Feb. 8-March 29.

Homework Help
High school students help children in grades K – 8,Monday through Thursday from 3:30 – 5:30 p.m. A Boston Public School teacher provides homework help on Mondays and Thursdays from
 4 – 6 p.m.No registration is necessary. 

Yu-Gi-Oh Club
Are you a child or a teen who enjoys Yu-Gi-Oh! cards? Join us for our weekly Yu-Gi-Oh! Gaming sessions on Saturdays at 1 p.m. We ask that individuals come with their own set of cards to play.  No previous knowledge of the game is necessary. For ages 6 and up. 

“Pajama Party on February 21st at 4 p.m.
Enjoy a waffle bar and decorate your own pillowcase. Wear your pajamas! For all ages. Please bring a pair of new pajamas for babies, children, or teens to donate to our pajama drive.

School Vacation Movie
. Join us for our special School Vacation movie, Star Wars:The Force Awakens on Wednesday, February 22nd @ 1:00 pm!!!

All-Ages Snow Bunny Crafternoon
Crafters from ages 5 to 95 can come make a snow bunny to keep or give away on Thursday, February 23rd from 5:00-7:30 p.m.Sew and no-sew versions will be available to make participation easy for everyone.We will provide patterns, fabric (you are welcome to bring your own, too!), a sewing machine, and sundries. Young crafters must be accompanied by a parent to help with craft materials

The Pineapple Project
Please join us on Friday, February 24th at 2:30 p.m. for the Pineapple Project, an original play about gender, creativity, and each child’s freedom to be who they are. “The Pineapple Project was born during a moment of play between actor Mal Malme and her  niece in which her niece said” Boys Can’t be Princesses.!” As a gender non-conforming person and theater artist, Mal couldn’t ignore this statement. This led Mal and colleagues Becca A. Lewis and Renee Farster-Degenhardt to create a theatre piece for children ages 3-8 to broaden the gender conversation and validate each child’s identity.

Ward 1 Democratic Committee Meeting Rescheduled to January 26

The Ward 1 Democratic Committee has rescheduled the meeting previously scheduled for January 12th. The meeting is now scheduled for Thursday, January 26, 2017 to be held at 6:00pm at the Salesian Boys & Girls Club, 150 Byron St., East Boston.

The ward committee will select a date for the caucus to elect delegates to attend the Democratic Convention. 

The convention will take place June 3, 2017 in Lowell. 

The Committee will also be joined by Senator Joe Boncore who will serve as the guest speaker for this meeting. 

All Democrats are welcome to attend the meeting. 

Questions? Contact Ward 1 chairman Michael Sulprizio at msulprizio@comcast.net. You can also follow the Ward Committee on Twitter @ward1demsEB or “Like” us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/ward1dems/

Agenda 1/26/2017

1. calling the roll of members
2. reading the minutes of the previous meeting
3. report of the Treasurer
4. report of other officers and of committees or sub-committees
5. reading of communications
6. unfinished business - new business

• Guest Speaker Senator Joseph Boncore
• Set date for caucus 
• Discuss vacancies 

7. comment period
8. adjournment

East Boston Kiwanis Club Kicks-off Holiday Canned Food Drive with Collection Effort at Shaw’s Supermarket on Oct. 24

From the Kiwanis Club

EAST BOSTON (October 17, 2016)– The Kiwanis Club of East Boston will kick off its holiday food drive with a canned food collection effort on Monday, October 24, 2016, from 4-7 p.m. at Shaw’s Supermarket in Liberty Plaza, East Boston. The food drive will benefit the food pantry at the Grace Church Federated and the Meridian House, both in East Boston.

Shaw’s customers are asked to purchase canned foods, pastas, and other dried goods and drop them off at the Kiwanis table that will be set up outside the exit doors at Shaw’s. The Kiwanis will also accept monetary donations, which will be given to the food pantry and used to purchase additional food items. All food items and donated funds go to help those in need in the East Boston community.

Starting on Monday, the East Boston Savings Bank will also support the Kiwanis holiday food drive by setting up canned food boxes at the three EBSB branches in East Boston – Meridian Street, Central Square and Orient Heights – so that donations can also be dropped off at those locations until Christmas. Those donations will also be given to the Grace Church food bank and the Meridian House.

The Kiwanis Club of East Boston is an organization of volunteers dedicated to changing the world one child and one community at a time through community service.

Source:
MaryJane Barber 978-421-5441

October 13: North Suffolk to offer Community Education Forum for Families Marijuana’s Effect on the Developing Brain

Chelsea, MA (September 22, 2016)- North Suffolk Mental Health Association, with support from the East Boston Neighborhood Health Center and the East Boston Substance Abuse Coalition will be offering a Community Education Forum for parents and early teens to learn about marijuana and its effects on the developing brain at the Mario Umana Barnes Middle School on Thursday, October 13th from 4:30 to 7:30 PM. 

This completely FREE event will offer dinner, translation services, childcare for children 3-10 and a presentation by Rick Cresta, a social worker from Boston University. This free event is open to everyone in the community.

This forum is in response to the recent MGH Youth Risk Behavior Survey which polled students at the East Boston High School. The survey showed a majority of students had tried marijuana, and a significant number are regular users. Rick Cresta focuses on Marijuana and Adolescent Substance Use. He doesn’t argue with those who say that marijuana causes less harm than other drugs. “That, however, does not mean it’s harmless,”

The schedule for the evening has a resource fair and dinner being served from 4:30 to 6:00 PM in the Umana cafeteria. At 6:00 pm, childcare will start while Rick presents to parents and kids above 10 in the multi-purpose room. Parents will have the opportunity to ask questions directly, and learn about how to talk with their kids about what they have learned.

Source: 

Margaret Farmer
617.912.7932
mfarmer@northsuffolk.org

Something to remember this July Fourth: The Battle of Noddle's Island, Hogg Island and Chelsea Creek

A historical thought on this July 4 from local historian Michael Laurano:


The Fourth of July is a good time to remember another great American misnomer - the oxymoronic term, the so called "Battle of Chelsea Creek" which in all truth was the "Battle of Noddle's Island, Hogg Island and Chelsea".

The series of skirmishes encompassed by that term which took place in late May of 1775 between the Americans and the British was never until the very late 19th century at the very earliest referred to even as the "Battle of Chelsea " nor until 1906 as the "Battle of Chelsea Creek". That was for good reasons. The bellicose actions took place on Noddle's Island (East Boston), Hogg (or Hog) Island (Orient Heights) and Chelsea (today's Beachmont, Revere, Winthrop and Chelsea), in 1775 Sales Farm, Rumney Marsh, Pullin Point and Winnisimmet.

Some of the fighting and the culmination by the burning of a British vessel, The Diana, certainly did place along the shores of the intervening waterway between present day East Boston and Chelsea now known as "Chelsea Creek". That body of water was not however known as "Chelsea Creek" in 1775 nor for a half century afterwards. The term "Chelsea Creek" name was affixed to "Chelsea Reach" in the 1830s by Gen William H. Sumner the principal behind the development into "East Boston" of once bucolic Noddle's Island, an oasis of culture and gracious civility in Boston Harbour burned and rendered barren by the bellicose events of 1775

"The designation "Chelsea Creek" appears on no legitimate contemporaneously drawn map of 1775 and nowhere else until the 1830s. No person actually at Noddle's, Island Hogg Island or Chelsea who participated in the fighting in 1775, American or British, left written recorded reference to the "Battle of Chelsea Creek". 1775 newspaper accounts of the skirmishes which sent an electrifying shock of courage throughout the rebellious American Colonies made reference only to the events "on Noddles Island", or "on Hogg (sometimes spelled "Hog") Island" or "at Chelsea" and never "Chelsea Creek" The American "rebels" who participated as belligerants there so recorded and 1775 British Admiralty records read the same as well.

That said, it is also true that on account of the determined efforts of some folk who have partisanly picked up on what was a mistake (one would like to think it was that, born only of ignorance and not deliberate) first made in 1906 by a New Hampshire magazine writer named Lamb have tenaciously promoted the "Battle of Chelsea Creek" mantra. Though that may be a rightful exercise in American free speech it is however still not the truth. Perhaps the erroneous term was first conceived in a spirit of compromise. In 20th century terms it would be an easy mistake perhaps to make.

In 1775 I shared in the same spirit of comprise at the BiCentennial celebration and referred to the "Battle of Noddle's Island and Chelsea Creek". However, given the 21st century internet's revolutionary access to early maps and documentation from and contemporaneous with 1775 to allow this transgression to continue unchallened would be only be to continue to give license to a wrong. A truthful and accurate account of American history deserves better.

Many recent writers while acknowledging the many indisputable facts of the matter still continue to repeat this grave misnaming error which flies in the face of accuracy and truth.

One such recent writer of American history while accurately attesting to the focus of these events as having happened on Noddle's Island judiciously says (the battle)..."has come to be called the Battle of Chelsea Creek". To that this writer would add with emphasis...The Battle of Noddle's Island, Hogg Island and Chelsea" vs. the "Battle of Chelsea Creek" is not over yet !

On this Fourth of July holiday of 2016 a salvo in this naming battle is issued in the form of the following threefold challenge to anyone who wishes to persist in promoting the misnamning error of the "Battle of Chelsea Creek":

First: Produce a legitimate map of from the 1775 era drawn prior to the 1830s designating the tidal waterway flowing between what is now East Boston and Chelsea as "Chelsea Creek".

Second: Produce a legitimate recorded account by any person who was actually there and participated in the skirmishes between the Americans and the British in 1775 that makes reference to "Chelsea Creek".

Third: Produce a legitimate 1775 newspaper account of the events that took place on Noddle's Island, Hogg Island and at Chelsea that made reference to "Chelsea Creek".

Happy Fourth of July to all.
    
Michael A. Laurano
malauran (at) aol.com

A Certified Asset: Congratulations to EBNHC’s Wandaly Pellicier!

This just in from the EBHNC:

(East Boston, MA, June 1, 2015)— After nearly 18 months of intense study, Wandaly Pellicier, Medical Assistant in the Women’s Health Department and Central Processing Technician for the Employee Health/Infection Control Department at EBNHC, has completed the IAHCSMM (International Association of Healthcare Central Service Material Management) course and exam. 

EBNHC’s Wandaly Pellicier

 She is now a Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST). The CRCST Certification is accredited by both the American National Standards Institute and the National Commission for Certifying Agencies.

In 2013, Wandaly took on the new role of EBNHC’s Central Processing Technician. In this position, she became responsible for performing and overseeing instrument care and cleaning. Prior to Wandaly’s appointment, medical assistants across the health center would devote up to three hours a day to equipment sterilization—time that is now dedicated to patient care.

At the suggestion of EBNHC administration, and with their full support as well as encouragement from her supervisor, Wandaly decided to augment her Central Service knowledge and pursue certification as a Certified Registered Central Service Technician.

A Central Service Technician is a vital member of the medical team, supporting all patient care areas and interacting with staff across the health center (in fact, the CRCST course and exam even assess customer relations skills!). As the IAHCSMM defines this role, oversight of all supplies and equipment needed for patient care includes “decontaminating, inspecting, assembling, disassembling, packaging, and sterilizing reusable surgical instruments or devices in a health care facility that are essential for patient safety.”

Wandaly’s supportive supervisor in the Women’s Health Department is Meg Perkins Ames, RN, BSN. Meg is thrilled about Wandaly’s accomplishment: “Though pending, there is legislation in Massachusetts to make certification a requirement for all Central Service Technicians (those who sterilize instruments in medical settings). The certification exam Wandaly successfully completed is significantly more difficult, with a pass rate of less than 50%, than the previous version. This is an extraordinary personal achievement. Wandaly is an exceptional employee, and now, as a Certified Registered Central Service Technician, she has become an even more treasured asset for the health center.”

Each year, Wandaly will be required to recertify as a CRCST by completing continuing education specifications. While Wandaly’s certification makes her eligible for Central Processing roles in full-service hospitals (she understands the use and care of every machine, scope, and instrument that may be used, as well as the importance of safety in any Central Processing environment), she loves her work at EBNHC. Her future plans do include becoming a Certified Instrument Specialist-after a period of well-deserved rest, however!?

As her Central Processing duties have increased, Wandaly has reduced her clinical role in the Women’s Health Department. She fills in as needed, but has incorporated ordering, stocking, and maintaining all sorts of medical supplies into her sterilization/Central Processing work. “I love working at the health center,” says Wandaly. “It’s a wonderful, diverse community. I meet people of so many different nationalities, and learn lots of new things every day. I feel very supported here.”

With her dedication to patient care at the health center and her considerable accomplishments, Wandaly is the perfect choice as the “face of EBNHC” on the health center’s newly redesigned website home page at www.ebnhc.org.

Congratulations, Wandaly!

For more information about IAHCSMM certification, visit www.iahcsmm.org.

The East Boston Neighborhood Health Center has been a vital part of the community for 45 years, providing easily accessible, high-quality health care to all who live and work in East Boston and the surrounding communities of Chelsea, Revere, Everett, and Winthrop. EBNHC handles 300,000 patient visits per year—more than any other ambulatory care center in New England.

Get Free Information on Getting into, Going to and Paying for College at the East Boston Branch Library

From the EB Branch of the BPL:

SALT is on the move-and bringing its free financial resources to East Boston on Tuesday, May 12th from 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. and Thursday, May 28th from 2-8 p.m. Education Advisors will available for one-on-one sessions to give help with choosing a college and the admissions process, applying for financial aid and scholarships, advice on how to make smart decisions about paying for college and loan counseling to help you understand your repayment options.  For more information, visit saltlive.org

Adrian Madaro Kicks-off Campaign for State Rep with Over 200 Supporters at the Jeffries Yacht Club

(EAST BOSTON, January 19, 2015) Surrounded by over 200 supporters Adrian Madaro, candidate for State Representative, held his official campaign kick-off event at the Jeffries Yacht Club last week.   

Campaign Manager Liana LaMattina, introduced Madaro. “When I think of our next generation of leaders here in East Boston, I think of Adrian. He is a prime example of a product of the environment here in East Boston.” She said. “He is a product of the love and commitment to community that many great leaders in Eastie have taught us in the past. And I know that he will continue that legacy."

Addressing the packed room, Madaro shared his reasons for running and laid out his vision for East Boston.

“I feel blessed to be born and raised in East Boston, whether it was playing little league baseball or pop warner football, learning how to play drums at Zumix, or getting involved in community clean ups with my mom and her civic group.” Adrian said “My family made sure that I was invested in my community and that I loved East Boston. That’s why I am running for State Representative. I want to be the first person you think of calling when you need help and I want to be your advocate on Beacon Hill.”

Madaro went on to thank his family for their support and State Representative Carlo Basile for his mentorship.

“This commitment to public service and community is in my DNA. I learned it from my family and strengthened it these past four years working for Representative Basile as his Chief of Staff.” Adrian continued, “I’m so grateful for Rep Basile’s mentorship as he’s prepared me to be an effective and passionate advocate for East Boston on day one.”

Adrian Madaro is a graduate of Boston Latin School and Tufts University where he also earned a Masters in Public Policy and Urban Planning. Adrian is an active member of the East Boston community, serving as a board member of the East Boston Neighborhood Health Center, Vice President of the YMCA, President of the Harborside Community Council, Former Vice President of the Neighborhood of Affordable Housing (NOAH), and Co-Chair and Founder of the Mario Umana Public Service Fellowship.
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Annual East Boston Winter Market - Saturday, December 6

(East Boston, MA) Saturday, Dec. 6, 2014. East Boston Main Streets, Maverick Marketplace, East Boston Kitchen, Atlantic Works, and the East Boston Neighborhood Health Center look forward to initiating an East Boston Winter Shopping Day in and around Maverick Sq. 

Local artists and artisans will be showing their work. Four locations total: 

• Build your own grits from 9-12 and then peruse locally made art/crafts/baked goods from 12-6pm.  ZUMIX Carolers will be on hand from 12-1pm at East Boston Kitchen - 331 Sumner St.
   
• Warm apple cider, cookies, and local artist welcome you at the East Boston Neighborhood Health Center from 12-6pm - 20 Maverick Sq.
   
• Over 10 locally owned retailers, entertainment and warm drinks at 154 Maverick Marketplace from 10-5pm – 154 Maverick St.
   
• Join us for the 1st East Boston Artists Group “Open House/Holiday Sale” at the Atlantic Works Artist Building, 80 Border St. Friday, December 5, 6-8pm, Saturday, December 6, 12-6pm and Sunday, December 7, 12-4pm.

Support your local artist community – Shop Local! 

EBMS is a non-profit corporation. Our mission is to create a more vibrant business district by initiating private and public improvements, promoting commerce, and supporting efforts to improve the quality of life for all who live, work and do business in East Boston.

East Boston Visitor Center & Museum Meeting on November 3

This just in from EBVC&M:

The next monthly meeting of the East Boston Visitor Center and Museum will be held on Monday, November 3, 2014, 6:00 P.M. at Maverick Landing Community Room, 31 Liverpool Street,East Boston.

This month we will be joined by Susan E. Schur, an independent museum curator and  publisher/editor of Technology and Conservation of Art, Architecture and Antiquities.  Susan will be sharing her museum and exhibit knowledge with the group, particularly around immigration.

All are welcomed to attend.  Hope to see you there!