(Cambridge, MA Sept. 20, 2014) Harvard University Professors and clergy in conjunction with Stand For Democracy will be gathering on the steps of Memorial Church at Harvard Yard at 11 AM Monday, September 22 to address the media on the religious and academic involvement behind repealing Question 3. This will be the first time that Catholic Clergy will be speaking publicly since Cardinal O’Malley and three other Bishops penned a letter backing the casino repeal effort.
Professor David Carrasco, the Neil L. Rudenstine Professor at Harvard characterized expanded gambling in Massachusetts as a systematic exploitation of the poor. Father Francisco Anzoategui of the Archdiocese of Boston said he is working around Question 3 to “stand for the poor”. Anzoategui, who oversees over 40 parishes throughout the greater Boston area has pledged to mobilize his parishes to educate his congregants on the societal ills of expanded gaming.
Moreover, the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) has pledged to mobilize more than 150 congregations throughout the region. The ELCA had previously played a major role in defeating the proposed Suffolk Downs proposal last November, as its parish in East Boston, Our Saviour’s, served as the nerve center for anti-casino activists and strategists. Clergy from the ELCA will be discussing their plans to further support Question 3.
This press conference comes at a time of uncertainty for the repeal camp. “We understand that our friends throughout the repeal camp have amassed a large amount of legal debt courageously fighting a predatory Goliath. However, we, Stand For Democracy and our religious affiliates are here to assure those in support of Question 3, MGM, Penn National, and Steve Wynn that the religious communities in Massachusetts have never been stronger and on a more united front with regards to a social issue than with Question 3”, said Sunha Kim of Stand For Democracy. “Keep in mind that East Boston was outspent nearly 100-1, yet the anti-casino campaign still prevailed. Ultimately, nobody is praying for a casino”, Kim continued.
Professor Harvey Cox, the Hollis Research Professor at Harvard will re-affirm his call for a one thousand minister anti-casino conference to be held at Harvard. Professor Cox is a world renowned theologian and academic who has spent the greater part of his life working on social justice and civil rights issues. “I am here, in part because this is my expression of my religious commitment, and I have been formed in my attitudes by a couple of people, one of them being Martin Luther King and more recently, Pope Francis ” Cox said. An official date for the conference will be released Monday at the press conference.
Showing posts with label No Eastie Casino. Show all posts
Showing posts with label No Eastie Casino. Show all posts
Saturday, September 20, 2014
Monday, August 4, 2014
Basile campaign issues response to Ribeiro Myers debate invite
This just in from the Basile campaign's Kevin Franck
Below is the Basile campaign's response to Celeste Ribeiro Myers' invitation to debate the issues and challenges facing the people of East Boston. Please let me know if you need anything else.
---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Carlo Basile
Date: Mon, Aug 4, 2014 at 7:27 PM
Subject: East Boston Public Debates
To: campaign@celesteforeastboston.com
August 4, 2014
Dear Steve Holt:
Thank you for your invitation to debate the issues and challenges facing the people of East Boston. The Basile Campaign would be more than willing to join you and anyone else who would like to participate in this discussion.
In the coming days, let's get together to work out the details and the logistics. We look forward to a healthy and civil discussion of the issues facing the 1st Suffolk district Rep. Basile represents.
All the Best,
Catt Chaput
Campaign Manager
--
Carlo Basile for State Representative
Representing East Boston since 2007
Vote November 4, 2014
Find your Polling Location at www.wheredoivotema.com
Below is the Basile campaign's response to Celeste Ribeiro Myers' invitation to debate the issues and challenges facing the people of East Boston. Please let me know if you need anything else.
---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Carlo Basile
Date: Mon, Aug 4, 2014 at 7:27 PM
Subject: East Boston Public Debates
To: campaign@celesteforeastboston.com
August 4, 2014
Dear Steve Holt:
Thank you for your invitation to debate the issues and challenges facing the people of East Boston. The Basile Campaign would be more than willing to join you and anyone else who would like to participate in this discussion.
In the coming days, let's get together to work out the details and the logistics. We look forward to a healthy and civil discussion of the issues facing the 1st Suffolk district Rep. Basile represents.
All the Best,
Catt Chaput
Campaign Manager
--
Carlo Basile for State Representative
Representing East Boston since 2007
Vote November 4, 2014
Find your Polling Location at www.wheredoivotema.com
Thursday, July 10, 2014
Basile Statement on Boston's Surrounding Community Agreement with Mohegan Sun
East Boston, MA (July 10, 2014) - Democratic State Rep. Carlo Basile released the following statement on the Surrounding Community Agreement Boston Mayor Marty Walsh signed today with Mohegan Sun:
"I am disappointed that the Massachusetts Gaming Commission insists on moving forward with issuing casino licenses before the people get a chance to vote this fall, but since they insist on moving forward, I am confident that Mayor Walsh got the best deal he could for the people of East Boston.
"There are many points within the agreement that will benefit our community, but I am especially happy to hear of the $30M which will spent in East Boston specifically. I am also happy with the proposal to retain the voice of the people and the call for another vote should there be any gaming development proposed in East Boston.
"I want to thank Mayor Walsh for his leadership on this difficult issue and for protecting the interests and preserving the voice of the people of East Boston."
Source: Kevin Franck via email
"I am disappointed that the Massachusetts Gaming Commission insists on moving forward with issuing casino licenses before the people get a chance to vote this fall, but since they insist on moving forward, I am confident that Mayor Walsh got the best deal he could for the people of East Boston.
"There are many points within the agreement that will benefit our community, but I am especially happy to hear of the $30M which will spent in East Boston specifically. I am also happy with the proposal to retain the voice of the people and the call for another vote should there be any gaming development proposed in East Boston.
"I want to thank Mayor Walsh for his leadership on this difficult issue and for protecting the interests and preserving the voice of the people of East Boston."
Source: Kevin Franck via email
Friday, June 27, 2014
Celeste Myers, Candidate for state Representative, Statement on SJC casino ruling, Revere hearing
The following was submitted by Celeste Myers dated 6/25/2014:
"We, the people, are the winners and beneficiaries of yesterday's ruling by the Supreme Judicial Court of Massachusetts that allows voters to decide in November whether or not to repeal the 2011 casino gambling law. Regardless of how you feel about casino gambling, this was an ill-conceived law from the start, a reality born out in a process marked with many missteps, a lack of transparency, and even the occasional end-run around the law.
The events in Eastern Massachusetts since last November's vote in East Boston and Revere should serve as exhibit A for the brokenness of this legislation. After being defeated at the polls in East Boston, the casino proposal for Suffolk Downs was given new life by the Gaming Commission to proceed as a "Revere-only" project. Even our local elected officials, and later our new mayor, wrote letters of objection to the commission's ruling vowing to defend Eastie residents' votes. The Mayor sought host community status for a "revised project" that has every bit as much of an impact on the the people of East Boston as the one we voted down in November. Last night, in Revere, residents and leaders of impacted areas had a final opportunity to speak out about this project before the commission decides between the two Eastern Massachusetts casino proposals.
Not a single local elected official (or any of their aides) representing Boston, let alone heavily impacted East Boston, showed up.
When I am your representative, I pledge to work tirelessly for you. When an opportunity arises to use my position to defend my neighbors or my neighborhood, I will not balk. My number one priority is the community, and I promise to show my dedication not only with words -- but action as well.
We can all celebrate that democracy will shine in November, when we have the opportunity to repeal a law that threatens both the Commonwealth and our neighborhood. While I do not know how residents of the Commonwealth will vote, I fully support their ability to do so. The stakes could not be higher."
Source: Celeste Myers
"We, the people, are the winners and beneficiaries of yesterday's ruling by the Supreme Judicial Court of Massachusetts that allows voters to decide in November whether or not to repeal the 2011 casino gambling law. Regardless of how you feel about casino gambling, this was an ill-conceived law from the start, a reality born out in a process marked with many missteps, a lack of transparency, and even the occasional end-run around the law.
The events in Eastern Massachusetts since last November's vote in East Boston and Revere should serve as exhibit A for the brokenness of this legislation. After being defeated at the polls in East Boston, the casino proposal for Suffolk Downs was given new life by the Gaming Commission to proceed as a "Revere-only" project. Even our local elected officials, and later our new mayor, wrote letters of objection to the commission's ruling vowing to defend Eastie residents' votes. The Mayor sought host community status for a "revised project" that has every bit as much of an impact on the the people of East Boston as the one we voted down in November. Last night, in Revere, residents and leaders of impacted areas had a final opportunity to speak out about this project before the commission decides between the two Eastern Massachusetts casino proposals.
Not a single local elected official (or any of their aides) representing Boston, let alone heavily impacted East Boston, showed up.
When I am your representative, I pledge to work tirelessly for you. When an opportunity arises to use my position to defend my neighbors or my neighborhood, I will not balk. My number one priority is the community, and I promise to show my dedication not only with words -- but action as well.
We can all celebrate that democracy will shine in November, when we have the opportunity to repeal a law that threatens both the Commonwealth and our neighborhood. While I do not know how residents of the Commonwealth will vote, I fully support their ability to do so. The stakes could not be higher."
Source: Celeste Myers
Monday, June 23, 2014
Myers to Launch Campaign for State Rep on Thursday 6/26; Pledges to ‘Put Community First’
(EAST BOSTON June 23, 2014) - Committing to work tirelessly at the State House so that every East Boston resident has the opportunity to work, live, raise a family and be successful, Celeste Ribeiro Myers this week officially launches her campaign for State Representative in Suffolk County’s First District. Myers, a lifelong East Boston resident and former co-chair of No Eastie Casino, a group she founded, says she believes the neighborhood’s best days are ahead of it.
“I love this community, and I am running to make sure it remains a place for young families to settle, a gateway for newcomers to this country, and a thriving district for entrepreneurs that is the envy of other Boston neighborhoods,” she says. “Too often, big business – be it an airport, an oil company, a luxury developer or, yes, a casino – have tried to dictate the direction this neighborhood is going. I believe the people know best how East Boston is to grow and prosper.”
Promising to run an energetic campaign in which she shares with voters her ideas for healthy neighborhood development, more efficient transportation, and an economically thriving, environmentally responsible East Boston, Myers will lay out her more comprehensive platform at a campaign kickoff event Thursday, June 26, from 6-8 p.m., at the Zumix Firehouse, 260 Sumner Street in East Boston.
Myers is known for leading the ballot question campaign group No Eastie Casino, which last year successfully defeated a proposal to site a casino at Suffolk Downs in East Boston. (Her opponent, incumbent Carlo Basile, opposed an area casino as a candidate in 2007 but vigorously supported casino plans in the run-up to the vote.) As Suffolk Downs continued to push a so-called “Revere-only” casino in the days and months following the November vote, Myers regularly appeared before the Massachusetts Gaming Commission as a representative of the more than 4,000 residents who voted “no” and continues to push toward repealing the law.
But long before the casino issue reared its head, Myers was active in the East Boston community. Her father, a former probation officer in Eastie, used to take her to protests against Logan Airport expansion and to volunteer with children at area family shelters. Celeste’s first pivotal opportunity to impact an issue came at the age of 9 when she wrote and delivered remarks to the Boston Public School Committee during a hearing in an effort to save her grade school, the Curtis Guild, from being closed as a result of budget cuts. More evident than her activist streak is her ardent desire to build community – usually in a hands-on capacity. Celeste played an instrumental role in producing community -galvanizing events including the Sacred Heart Festival, the Columbus Day Parade, Eastie Pride Day, the East Boston Community Thanksgiving Dinner, and has served as a team captain for the annual Relay for Life.
“For me, service is key,” she says. “The casino fight showed me how committed my neighbors are to protecting the neighborhood they love. So many of them tell me they’ve felt underrepresented at the state level; I’m ready and willing to step up and serve them, with the people and future of East Boston ever on my mind.”
Source: Myers campaign
“I love this community, and I am running to make sure it remains a place for young families to settle, a gateway for newcomers to this country, and a thriving district for entrepreneurs that is the envy of other Boston neighborhoods,” she says. “Too often, big business – be it an airport, an oil company, a luxury developer or, yes, a casino – have tried to dictate the direction this neighborhood is going. I believe the people know best how East Boston is to grow and prosper.”
Promising to run an energetic campaign in which she shares with voters her ideas for healthy neighborhood development, more efficient transportation, and an economically thriving, environmentally responsible East Boston, Myers will lay out her more comprehensive platform at a campaign kickoff event Thursday, June 26, from 6-8 p.m., at the Zumix Firehouse, 260 Sumner Street in East Boston.
Myers is known for leading the ballot question campaign group No Eastie Casino, which last year successfully defeated a proposal to site a casino at Suffolk Downs in East Boston. (Her opponent, incumbent Carlo Basile, opposed an area casino as a candidate in 2007 but vigorously supported casino plans in the run-up to the vote.) As Suffolk Downs continued to push a so-called “Revere-only” casino in the days and months following the November vote, Myers regularly appeared before the Massachusetts Gaming Commission as a representative of the more than 4,000 residents who voted “no” and continues to push toward repealing the law.
But long before the casino issue reared its head, Myers was active in the East Boston community. Her father, a former probation officer in Eastie, used to take her to protests against Logan Airport expansion and to volunteer with children at area family shelters. Celeste’s first pivotal opportunity to impact an issue came at the age of 9 when she wrote and delivered remarks to the Boston Public School Committee during a hearing in an effort to save her grade school, the Curtis Guild, from being closed as a result of budget cuts. More evident than her activist streak is her ardent desire to build community – usually in a hands-on capacity. Celeste played an instrumental role in producing community -galvanizing events including the Sacred Heart Festival, the Columbus Day Parade, Eastie Pride Day, the East Boston Community Thanksgiving Dinner, and has served as a team captain for the annual Relay for Life.
“For me, service is key,” she says. “The casino fight showed me how committed my neighbors are to protecting the neighborhood they love. So many of them tell me they’ve felt underrepresented at the state level; I’m ready and willing to step up and serve them, with the people and future of East Boston ever on my mind.”
Source: Myers campaign
Friday, February 21, 2014
Revere Casino Opponents Plan March, From Parish Church To City Hall on Sunday, Feb 25
(REVERE, MA) With the Feb. 25th casino referendum just days away, Don’t Gamble on Revere and Friends of Revere have called for a public march this Sunday, Feb. 23rd, from Immaculate Conception Parish Church to Revere City Hall.
The Salvadorian Marching Peace Band will be leading the lively procession, and a brief rally in front of Revere’s City Hall will include a program of speakers encouraging Revere residents to vote ‘No’ on Feb. 25 and to not be intimidated by pro-casino forces.
“In the span of thirty years” explains Tim Bogertman, Associate Pastor at First Congregational Church and one of the organizers of Sunday’s march, “Revere has gone from being one of the least diverse cities in the state to perhaps the most diverse. Many of our residents immigrated to the United States from countries where opposition to the political establishment simply did not exist, and we want to assure our friends and neighbors that they are free to vote their conscience next Tuesday, regardless of official voices urging them to support the proposed casino.”
“Predatory gambling is simply not in the best interest of our community,” states Father George Szal of Immaculate Conception Parish, where Sunday’s march will commence, “and Tuesday’s vote is far from a done deal.”
Sunday’s march starts at 1 p.m. at Immaculate Conception Parish Church (127 Winthrop Avenue), and will end with a rally at Revere City Hall (281 Broadway).
The Salvadorian Marching Peace Band will be leading the lively procession, and a brief rally in front of Revere’s City Hall will include a program of speakers encouraging Revere residents to vote ‘No’ on Feb. 25 and to not be intimidated by pro-casino forces.
“In the span of thirty years” explains Tim Bogertman, Associate Pastor at First Congregational Church and one of the organizers of Sunday’s march, “Revere has gone from being one of the least diverse cities in the state to perhaps the most diverse. Many of our residents immigrated to the United States from countries where opposition to the political establishment simply did not exist, and we want to assure our friends and neighbors that they are free to vote their conscience next Tuesday, regardless of official voices urging them to support the proposed casino.”
“Predatory gambling is simply not in the best interest of our community,” states Father George Szal of Immaculate Conception Parish, where Sunday’s march will commence, “and Tuesday’s vote is far from a done deal.”
Sunday’s march starts at 1 p.m. at Immaculate Conception Parish Church (127 Winthrop Avenue), and will end with a rally at Revere City Hall (281 Broadway).
Friday, February 14, 2014
Declaring Revere Casino ‘Not A Done Deal’ Clergy Call for Prayer on Sunday
(REVERE, MA - February 14, 2014) Catholic, Protestant, Jewish and Muslim leaders in Revere have called upon their respective communities to gather at the sanctuary of Immaculate Conception Parish at 1 PM on Sunday, February 16, for an ecumenical prayer gathering expected to draw hundreds of Revere residents.
“This is a gathering for all people of faith who are opposed to the casino” says Tim Bogertman, Associate Pastor of First Congregational Church in Revere. “It will be a time to pray, speak, and encourage others to stand against this disastrous casino plan that will negatively impact the lives of people living here.”
Friends of Revere (www.friendsofrevere.com) – a diverse group of pastors, priests and ministers representing various traditions, denominations and congregations in Revere – have called for Sunday’s gathering because they are deeply concerned about the impact of a casino in their community, what they describe as “a direct threat to the families and children who live in Revere.”
Pastor Nely Esturban of Betel Church in Revere says, “I want peace for the city of Revere. Let me tell you why – I love my kids, I love my city, and I don’t want to bring about the destruction of my city. We don’t need a casino here.”
In conversation with hundreds of congregants and parishioners, the ministers claim the casino is far from decided in the minds of people in Revere. “I thought the casino was a done deal,” explains Father George Szal of Immaculate Conception Church, “but then I began speaking with my parishioners and more than half of them are opposed to the casino. This is not a done deal at all.”
Members of Friends of Revere continue to lead their congregations, mosques and synagogues in what has been several weeks of prayer for positive future development in Revere, and they have also been preaching about the harmful effects that a casino will have in their neighborhood. Rabbi Joseph Berman, a founding member of Friends of Revere, explains his opposition to the casino in straightforward terms, “Casinos prey on the most vulnerable members of our communities, and they increase poverty, addiction, and crime.”
“Sunday’s ecumenical prayer gathering at Immaculate Conception is a time to declare that God has something better for this town than a casino,” says Pastor Bogertman, “and all are welcome.”
Source: Tim Bogertman, tbogertman@firstcongrevere.org,
“This is a gathering for all people of faith who are opposed to the casino” says Tim Bogertman, Associate Pastor of First Congregational Church in Revere. “It will be a time to pray, speak, and encourage others to stand against this disastrous casino plan that will negatively impact the lives of people living here.”
Friends of Revere (www.friendsofrevere.com) – a diverse group of pastors, priests and ministers representing various traditions, denominations and congregations in Revere – have called for Sunday’s gathering because they are deeply concerned about the impact of a casino in their community, what they describe as “a direct threat to the families and children who live in Revere.”
Pastor Nely Esturban of Betel Church in Revere says, “I want peace for the city of Revere. Let me tell you why – I love my kids, I love my city, and I don’t want to bring about the destruction of my city. We don’t need a casino here.”
In conversation with hundreds of congregants and parishioners, the ministers claim the casino is far from decided in the minds of people in Revere. “I thought the casino was a done deal,” explains Father George Szal of Immaculate Conception Church, “but then I began speaking with my parishioners and more than half of them are opposed to the casino. This is not a done deal at all.”
Members of Friends of Revere continue to lead their congregations, mosques and synagogues in what has been several weeks of prayer for positive future development in Revere, and they have also been preaching about the harmful effects that a casino will have in their neighborhood. Rabbi Joseph Berman, a founding member of Friends of Revere, explains his opposition to the casino in straightforward terms, “Casinos prey on the most vulnerable members of our communities, and they increase poverty, addiction, and crime.”
“Sunday’s ecumenical prayer gathering at Immaculate Conception is a time to declare that God has something better for this town than a casino,” says Pastor Bogertman, “and all are welcome.”
Source: Tim Bogertman, tbogertman@firstcongrevere.org,
Tuesday, January 21, 2014
Presser at 3 pm today: EB & Revere Communities Unite On City Line to Oppose Mohegan Sun Casino at Suffolk Downs
Neighboring community groups to hold joint press conference on the Revere/Boston city line in advance of Mohegan Sun's presentation to Massachusetts Gaming Commission
BOSTON, MA (January 21, 2014) - Today Don't Gamble on Revere, a registered municipal ballot question committee organized to stop a casino at Suffolk Downs, and No Eastie Casino, will hold a joint press conference and public demonstration at 3pm on the Revere/East Boston city line to denounce the Massachusetts Gaming Commission's disregard for residents' clear "no" vote from 8,513 residents of Revere and East Boston in referendums on Nov. 5 and highlight the contents of a comment letter to be submitted to the Commission (MGC) in advance of its January 22 meeting with Mohegan Sun.
"A casino at Suffolk Downs is a casino at Suffolk Downs, and shifting this development a few feet over the city line into Revere doesn't change anything," said Matt Cameron, No Eastie Casino's volunteer legal counsel and an East Boston resident. "As anyone who is familiar with this unique site must recognize, the city of Boston is now being forced to host a guest that we have already dis-invited."
"As knowledge of traffic, pollution, crime, and numerous other social problems due to casinos come to light, Revere opposition to a casino at Suffolk Downs is growing," said Joseph Catricala, spokesperson for Don't Gamble on Revere. "The lack of a clear host community agreement to mitigate these impacts makes us doubt that the City of Revere and Suffolk Downs truly have Revere's interests in mind. We are very concerned a casino will bleed our community dry."
In advance of the press conference, No Eastie Casino and Don't Gamble on Revere will submit a joint letter to the Massachusetts Gaming Commission registering their disapproval of the gaming application process and noting that more time is needed for Boston's new administration to make an informed decision.
"Mohegan Sun has filed an incomplete application with missing and outdated information, and is now trying to keep critical details relating to the site plan and their proposed land use confidential. This development will forever change the character and futures of East Boston and Revere, and we deserve to see everything that has already been made available to the Gaming Commission. " Cameron said.
For details on the press conference location, please contact Joe Catricala at 781-727-6099 or Celeste Myers at 617-913-3332.
About Don't Gamble on Revere
Don't Gamble on Revere is a group of citizens concerned about the future of Revere. We know that Revere has come a long way over the years and we don't want to lose all of the progress that we have made. We are an official municipal ballot question committee opposed to the casino at Suffolk Downs and a united all-volunteer force standing against the proposed casino in Revere.
About No Eastie Casino
No Eastie Casino is a grassroots effort led by local, all-volunteer residents opposed to the casino at Suffolk Downs. Our goal is to build a strong base of East Boston residents that represents the full diversity of our community; shares a common vision for a vibrant, healthy, family-friendly future for East Boston; and is united against a casino at Suffolk Downs.
Source:
Contacts: Joe Catricala & Celeste Myers
BOSTON, MA (January 21, 2014) - Today Don't Gamble on Revere, a registered municipal ballot question committee organized to stop a casino at Suffolk Downs, and No Eastie Casino, will hold a joint press conference and public demonstration at 3pm on the Revere/East Boston city line to denounce the Massachusetts Gaming Commission's disregard for residents' clear "no" vote from 8,513 residents of Revere and East Boston in referendums on Nov. 5 and highlight the contents of a comment letter to be submitted to the Commission (MGC) in advance of its January 22 meeting with Mohegan Sun.
"A casino at Suffolk Downs is a casino at Suffolk Downs, and shifting this development a few feet over the city line into Revere doesn't change anything," said Matt Cameron, No Eastie Casino's volunteer legal counsel and an East Boston resident. "As anyone who is familiar with this unique site must recognize, the city of Boston is now being forced to host a guest that we have already dis-invited."
"As knowledge of traffic, pollution, crime, and numerous other social problems due to casinos come to light, Revere opposition to a casino at Suffolk Downs is growing," said Joseph Catricala, spokesperson for Don't Gamble on Revere. "The lack of a clear host community agreement to mitigate these impacts makes us doubt that the City of Revere and Suffolk Downs truly have Revere's interests in mind. We are very concerned a casino will bleed our community dry."
In advance of the press conference, No Eastie Casino and Don't Gamble on Revere will submit a joint letter to the Massachusetts Gaming Commission registering their disapproval of the gaming application process and noting that more time is needed for Boston's new administration to make an informed decision.
"Mohegan Sun has filed an incomplete application with missing and outdated information, and is now trying to keep critical details relating to the site plan and their proposed land use confidential. This development will forever change the character and futures of East Boston and Revere, and we deserve to see everything that has already been made available to the Gaming Commission. " Cameron said.
For details on the press conference location, please contact Joe Catricala at 781-727-6099 or Celeste Myers at 617-913-3332.
About Don't Gamble on Revere
Don't Gamble on Revere is a group of citizens concerned about the future of Revere. We know that Revere has come a long way over the years and we don't want to lose all of the progress that we have made. We are an official municipal ballot question committee opposed to the casino at Suffolk Downs and a united all-volunteer force standing against the proposed casino in Revere.
About No Eastie Casino
No Eastie Casino is a grassroots effort led by local, all-volunteer residents opposed to the casino at Suffolk Downs. Our goal is to build a strong base of East Boston residents that represents the full diversity of our community; shares a common vision for a vibrant, healthy, family-friendly future for East Boston; and is united against a casino at Suffolk Downs.
Source:
Contacts: Joe Catricala & Celeste Myers
Monday, January 13, 2014
Supporting Walsh, No Eastie Casino steps up opposition to MGC ruling: "Revere Casino is Illegal; East Boston is a Host Community"
NO EASTIE CASINO STEP UP THE PRESSURE!
To our friends and neighbors:
Thank you for your persistence in fighting back as the Mass Gaming Commission seeks to silence our voices and move ahead with an illegitimate process. As you may know, Mayor Marty Walsh asked the gaming commission for one month to allow his legal team to review the lengthy host community agreement to determine if Boston is a host community (as, in the case of the proposed Revere casino, we believe
research will prove it is) or a surrounding community (as Mohegan Sun argues).
The Gaming Commission -- which granted the extension to Suffolk Downs to allow them to rework this proposal and have a new vote -- denied Mayor Walsh's request. They gave him until Monday to agree to begin negotiations as a surrounding community. THIS IS UNACCEPTABLE!
Mayor Walsh and his legal team have taken the right approach to date. The decision and statement they make today, Monday, is a critical one. We must ask them to speak out against the unfair ruling of the Mass Gaming Commission--and to put the Commission on notice that the city of Boston will not tolerate this. Mayor Walsh is our new mayor; he promised in his inaugural address to listen to the people of Boston
and to have open and transparent government. We applaud this commitment. He must listen to the people of East Boston and do everything in his power to ensure the vote we took is respected.
Source: No Eastie Casino 1/13/14
To our friends and neighbors:
Thank you for your persistence in fighting back as the Mass Gaming Commission seeks to silence our voices and move ahead with an illegitimate process. As you may know, Mayor Marty Walsh asked the gaming commission for one month to allow his legal team to review the lengthy host community agreement to determine if Boston is a host community (as, in the case of the proposed Revere casino, we believe
research will prove it is) or a surrounding community (as Mohegan Sun argues).
The Gaming Commission -- which granted the extension to Suffolk Downs to allow them to rework this proposal and have a new vote -- denied Mayor Walsh's request. They gave him until Monday to agree to begin negotiations as a surrounding community. THIS IS UNACCEPTABLE!
Mayor Walsh and his legal team have taken the right approach to date. The decision and statement they make today, Monday, is a critical one. We must ask them to speak out against the unfair ruling of the Mass Gaming Commission--and to put the Commission on notice that the city of Boston will not tolerate this. Mayor Walsh is our new mayor; he promised in his inaugural address to listen to the people of Boston
and to have open and transparent government. We applaud this commitment. He must listen to the people of East Boston and do everything in his power to ensure the vote we took is respected.
Source: No Eastie Casino 1/13/14
Sunday, January 12, 2014
News: Revere Residents Unite to Oppose Rushed, Harmful Mohegan Casino
This just in from Don't Gamble on Revere, the group organizing opposition to the Revere casino on the upcoming vote in Revere.
Source: Don't Gamble on Revere 1/12/2014
Revere Residents Unite to Oppose Rushed, Harmful Mohegan Casino
Revere, MA – Revere residents who are opposed to the proposed Mohegan Sun casino at Suffolk Downs have joined together to form the group, “Don’t Gamble on Revere,” a volunteer-led official ballot question committee asserting that residents of the historic, family-oriented city should always have a say in what happens to the future of their community. The group exists to convince Revere neighbors that voting NO at the Feb. 25 referendum will protect Revere from the invasion of a major corporation that would dictate a future that best suits its own gains rather than considering Revere’s.
"We’re gaining support daily from Revere residents who are opposed to the casino," says Joseph Catricala, spokesperson for Don’t Gamble on Revere, "Many residents are concerned about how a casino in their backyards could impact their families. I’ve heard a number of residents say they would move out of Revere if a casino comes. We are very concerned a casino will bleed our community dry."
Specifically, Catricala points to impacts such as increased traffic, pollution, crime, and numerous other social problems as reasons to oppose the development. Additionally, the group believes the arrival of a casino will decrease property values and raise taxes.
"The host community agreement does not provide the city with enough money to pay for the impact a casino will have on Revere," Catricala adds. "The proposed casino will kill the local economy by removing jobs and cause local businesses to close. When residents begin to gamble their paychecks away at the proposed casino, how will they have any money left to spend on the local economy?"
Don’t Gamble on Revere points to casinos elsewhere whose intent is to keep customers on-site rather than encouraging them to visit local businesses. Revere’s Broadway businesses cannot compete with the proposed casino’s glitzy restaurants, spas, and shops, the group says.
As the Feb. 25 vote approaches, Revere casino opposition is gaining momentum. Don’t Gamble on Revere leadership say the group will reach out to voters through telephone calls, mailings, door-to-door visits, and informative community events. Numerous families have put up "vote no" signs in yards and windows, and volunteer meetings occur each Tuesday at 6:30 PM until the day of the vote.
"Don’t Gamble on Revere is concerned about the future generation of Revere," says Don’t Gamble on Revere spokesperson Catricala. "We agree with casino backers that Revere needs revitalization, jobs, and additional funding to improve community services, but the difference lies in the solution. A casino is not the answer to improving the city of Revere. The long-term effects far outweigh any short-term benefits that a casino could bring to Revere. It is not worth it. Revere can do better."
Source: Don't Gamble on Revere 1/12/2014
Revere Residents Unite to Oppose Rushed, Harmful Mohegan Casino
Revere, MA – Revere residents who are opposed to the proposed Mohegan Sun casino at Suffolk Downs have joined together to form the group, “Don’t Gamble on Revere,” a volunteer-led official ballot question committee asserting that residents of the historic, family-oriented city should always have a say in what happens to the future of their community. The group exists to convince Revere neighbors that voting NO at the Feb. 25 referendum will protect Revere from the invasion of a major corporation that would dictate a future that best suits its own gains rather than considering Revere’s.
"We’re gaining support daily from Revere residents who are opposed to the casino," says Joseph Catricala, spokesperson for Don’t Gamble on Revere, "Many residents are concerned about how a casino in their backyards could impact their families. I’ve heard a number of residents say they would move out of Revere if a casino comes. We are very concerned a casino will bleed our community dry."
Specifically, Catricala points to impacts such as increased traffic, pollution, crime, and numerous other social problems as reasons to oppose the development. Additionally, the group believes the arrival of a casino will decrease property values and raise taxes.
"The host community agreement does not provide the city with enough money to pay for the impact a casino will have on Revere," Catricala adds. "The proposed casino will kill the local economy by removing jobs and cause local businesses to close. When residents begin to gamble their paychecks away at the proposed casino, how will they have any money left to spend on the local economy?"
Don’t Gamble on Revere points to casinos elsewhere whose intent is to keep customers on-site rather than encouraging them to visit local businesses. Revere’s Broadway businesses cannot compete with the proposed casino’s glitzy restaurants, spas, and shops, the group says.
As the Feb. 25 vote approaches, Revere casino opposition is gaining momentum. Don’t Gamble on Revere leadership say the group will reach out to voters through telephone calls, mailings, door-to-door visits, and informative community events. Numerous families have put up "vote no" signs in yards and windows, and volunteer meetings occur each Tuesday at 6:30 PM until the day of the vote.
"Don’t Gamble on Revere is concerned about the future generation of Revere," says Don’t Gamble on Revere spokesperson Catricala. "We agree with casino backers that Revere needs revitalization, jobs, and additional funding to improve community services, but the difference lies in the solution. A casino is not the answer to improving the city of Revere. The long-term effects far outweigh any short-term benefits that a casino could bring to Revere. It is not worth it. Revere can do better."
Thursday, November 21, 2013
Sen. Petruccelli's letter to gaming commission on the "Revere" plan
Just in to eastboston.com.
The two-page letter from state Senator Anthony Petruccelli to the Massachusetts Gaming Commission on Suffolk Downs' Revere-only proposal. Related story can be found here.
November 20, 2013
Stephen Crosby, Chairman
Massachusetts Gaming Commission
84 State Street, Suite 720
Boston, MA 02109
Dear Chairman Crosby and Commissioners:
On behalf of my constituents of the First Suffolk and Middlesex District, I write today to express my increasing concern over recent efforts by Sterling Suffolk Racecourse, LLC (“Sterling Suffolk”) to proceed with the resort casino development originally proposed for the 161-acre land parcel at Suffolk Downs in East Boston (the “Project”). In a letter to the Commission, dated November 13, 2013, Sterling Suffolk expressed their intentions to move forward with the Project despite the unsuccessful ballot question in East Boston. Indeed, Sterling Suffolk has proposed to modify the Project’s development plan so that it fits entirely within the 52-acre Revere parcel at Suffolk Downs. To do so, in my opinion, undermines the spirit and intent of the Commonwealth’s Expanded Gaming Act of 2011 (the “Gaming Act”).
When the State Legislature crafted and passed the Gaming Act, my colleagues and I carefully drafted provisions pertaining to host community agreements and the conduct of an election. M.G.L. c.23K, §15 specifically requires an applicant, as a prerequisite to filing an RFA-2 application (“Phase 2”), to receive a certified and binding vote on a ballot question at an election in the host community. (See also 205 CMR 124.00.) Also, where a proposed gaming establishment is situated in more than one community, as is the case with the Project:
The applicant shall execute an agreement with each host community, or a joint agreement with both communities, and receive a certified and binding vote on a ballot question at an election held in each host community in favor of such a license. M.G.L. c.23K, § 15(13).
Taken together, the intent of these provisions is clear. Only favorable referendum results in both host communities allow the applicant to proceed to Phase 2. That did not happen with Sterling Suffolk’s Project. Because one host community voted in the negative, the Project proposed for Suffolk Downs is dead. If Sterling Suffolk wishes to proceed with an alternative development plan on the Revere parcel, then under the terms of the Gaming Act:
[They] shall not submit a new request to the governing body within 180 days of the last election; and provided further, that a new request shall be accompanied by an agreement between the applicant and host community signed after the previous election. M.G.L. c.23K, § 15(13).
However, in their November 13th letter to the Commission, Sterling Suffolk asserted that, regardless of the November 5th election results, Revere’s host community agreement remains in effect and need only be modified to reflect a shift to Suffolk Down’s Revere parcel. Sterling Suffolk does not interpret the referendums to have been votes about the Project (and host community agreements) itself; rather they view the referendums as votes on whether Suffolk Down could be developed for a casino at all.
While it is true that Revere and East Boston voted on land use, it is also unquestionable that the host community agreements were essential to the voting process. All ballots required, and did in fact contain, “a fair, concise summary of the host community agreement.” 205 CMR 124.05. My colleagues and I in the Legislature recognized that it was imperative to ensure that Massachusetts residents in an impacted community have adequate notice of, and be well-informed about, any casino proposal prior to voting. Accordingly, the Gaming Act specifically requires a host community agreement to be made public, and that host and surrounding communities have ample opportunity to weigh the potential impacts on local businesses, traffic, jobs, as well as public safety.
Furthermore, it is false to argue that an alternative development plan on the Revere parcel is anything but a new proposal, which would require a new host community agreement and referendum under the provisions of M.G.L. c.23K, § 15(13). Any proposed project development on the Revere parcel would undoubtedly look very different from that which voters reviewed prior to November 5th. Buildings and parking lots would need to be relocated, not to mention the racetrack and stables. Such changes materially alter the Project as it was initially proposed. In effect, this undermine the Gaming Act’s requirements for transparency and notice that ensure members of the impacted communities, including myself, have adequate time to weigh the merits of a proposal.
I understand why Sterling Suffolk wishes to pursue an alternative development plan on the Revere parcel. As an organization, they’ve invested a great deal of time, effort, and money to see the Suffolk Downs Project to fruition. I, too, was disappointed that the Project failed to receive the two affirmative referendum results needed to proceed to Phase 2. I believed, and still believe, that a casino has great potential to rejuvenate communities within my District. Nevertheless, the Commission cannot allow a gaming applicant to circumvent the process required by the Gaming Act merely because the results were disappointing.
I appreciate the opportunity to state my position to the Commission, and request the Commission’s clarification on the status of Sterling Suffolk’s application. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me at my office.
Sincerely,
ANTHONY PETRUCCELLI
State Senator
First Suffolk and Middlesex District
The two-page letter from state Senator Anthony Petruccelli to the Massachusetts Gaming Commission on Suffolk Downs' Revere-only proposal. Related story can be found here.
November 20, 2013
Stephen Crosby, Chairman
Massachusetts Gaming Commission
84 State Street, Suite 720
Boston, MA 02109
Dear Chairman Crosby and Commissioners:
On behalf of my constituents of the First Suffolk and Middlesex District, I write today to express my increasing concern over recent efforts by Sterling Suffolk Racecourse, LLC (“Sterling Suffolk”) to proceed with the resort casino development originally proposed for the 161-acre land parcel at Suffolk Downs in East Boston (the “Project”). In a letter to the Commission, dated November 13, 2013, Sterling Suffolk expressed their intentions to move forward with the Project despite the unsuccessful ballot question in East Boston. Indeed, Sterling Suffolk has proposed to modify the Project’s development plan so that it fits entirely within the 52-acre Revere parcel at Suffolk Downs. To do so, in my opinion, undermines the spirit and intent of the Commonwealth’s Expanded Gaming Act of 2011 (the “Gaming Act”).
When the State Legislature crafted and passed the Gaming Act, my colleagues and I carefully drafted provisions pertaining to host community agreements and the conduct of an election. M.G.L. c.23K, §15 specifically requires an applicant, as a prerequisite to filing an RFA-2 application (“Phase 2”), to receive a certified and binding vote on a ballot question at an election in the host community. (See also 205 CMR 124.00.) Also, where a proposed gaming establishment is situated in more than one community, as is the case with the Project:
The applicant shall execute an agreement with each host community, or a joint agreement with both communities, and receive a certified and binding vote on a ballot question at an election held in each host community in favor of such a license. M.G.L. c.23K, § 15(13).
Taken together, the intent of these provisions is clear. Only favorable referendum results in both host communities allow the applicant to proceed to Phase 2. That did not happen with Sterling Suffolk’s Project. Because one host community voted in the negative, the Project proposed for Suffolk Downs is dead. If Sterling Suffolk wishes to proceed with an alternative development plan on the Revere parcel, then under the terms of the Gaming Act:
[They] shall not submit a new request to the governing body within 180 days of the last election; and provided further, that a new request shall be accompanied by an agreement between the applicant and host community signed after the previous election. M.G.L. c.23K, § 15(13).
However, in their November 13th letter to the Commission, Sterling Suffolk asserted that, regardless of the November 5th election results, Revere’s host community agreement remains in effect and need only be modified to reflect a shift to Suffolk Down’s Revere parcel. Sterling Suffolk does not interpret the referendums to have been votes about the Project (and host community agreements) itself; rather they view the referendums as votes on whether Suffolk Down could be developed for a casino at all.
While it is true that Revere and East Boston voted on land use, it is also unquestionable that the host community agreements were essential to the voting process. All ballots required, and did in fact contain, “a fair, concise summary of the host community agreement.” 205 CMR 124.05. My colleagues and I in the Legislature recognized that it was imperative to ensure that Massachusetts residents in an impacted community have adequate notice of, and be well-informed about, any casino proposal prior to voting. Accordingly, the Gaming Act specifically requires a host community agreement to be made public, and that host and surrounding communities have ample opportunity to weigh the potential impacts on local businesses, traffic, jobs, as well as public safety.
Furthermore, it is false to argue that an alternative development plan on the Revere parcel is anything but a new proposal, which would require a new host community agreement and referendum under the provisions of M.G.L. c.23K, § 15(13). Any proposed project development on the Revere parcel would undoubtedly look very different from that which voters reviewed prior to November 5th. Buildings and parking lots would need to be relocated, not to mention the racetrack and stables. Such changes materially alter the Project as it was initially proposed. In effect, this undermine the Gaming Act’s requirements for transparency and notice that ensure members of the impacted communities, including myself, have adequate time to weigh the merits of a proposal.
I understand why Sterling Suffolk wishes to pursue an alternative development plan on the Revere parcel. As an organization, they’ve invested a great deal of time, effort, and money to see the Suffolk Downs Project to fruition. I, too, was disappointed that the Project failed to receive the two affirmative referendum results needed to proceed to Phase 2. I believed, and still believe, that a casino has great potential to rejuvenate communities within my District. Nevertheless, the Commission cannot allow a gaming applicant to circumvent the process required by the Gaming Act merely because the results were disappointing.
I appreciate the opportunity to state my position to the Commission, and request the Commission’s clarification on the status of Sterling Suffolk’s application. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me at my office.
Sincerely,
ANTHONY PETRUCCELLI
State Senator
First Suffolk and Middlesex District
Friday, November 8, 2013
No Eastie Casino: "An Open Letter To Our Elected Officials and The Massachusetts Gaming Commission"
From No Eastie Casino 11/8/2013:
An Open Letter To Our Elected Officials and The Massachusetts Gaming Commission:
We are writing on behalf of the 4,281 East Boston voters who soundly defeated the ill-conceived proposal for a casino at Suffolk Downs on November 5.
Suffolk Downs’ casino proposal failed. The developer was unable to choose or properly vet a casino operator. Unambiguously located in both East Boston and Revere, the developer failed to win the East Boston vote. Massachusetts law clearly states that if a proposed casino is located in more than one city or town, it must win a referendum vote in both communities, M.G.L. c. 23K, § 15(13). East Boston said NO; Suffolk Downs’ casino application is dead.
Suffolk Downs is now trying to circumvent the law by suggesting it can simply "move the goalposts" to the Revere side, but a Revere-only casino is not what residents of East Boston or Revere were called to vote for. East Boston voters said "no" to the impacts that a Suffolk Downs casino would bring, and a Revere-only casino will create the same impacts. Enough is enough - Suffolk Downs is no longer a legitimate contender. Any attempt to move forward with a Revere-only casino proposal is a deliberate effort to disenfranchise East Boston voters and circumvent the clear intent of the law. No Eastie Casino is outraged this idea could even be entertained.
East Boston residents expect and demand our elected officials to uphold and enforce the law, stand for the will of the people, and reject Suffolk Downs' last ditch effort to install a casino in our community.
No Eastie Casino calls on the Massachusetts Gaming Commission to adhere to the proper licensing procedures, M.G.L. c. 23K, 205 CMR, and application deadlines previously set forth. The law is clear and the voters have spoken. We insist that Suffolk Downs be immediately removed from consideration for a gaming license.
We will not tolerate any breach of the law or the public process. We will continue to fight to keep East Boston safe for families and small businesses. We will not stop until this threat to our community has been removed once and for all.
No Eastie Casino
An Open Letter To Our Elected Officials and The Massachusetts Gaming Commission:
We are writing on behalf of the 4,281 East Boston voters who soundly defeated the ill-conceived proposal for a casino at Suffolk Downs on November 5.
Suffolk Downs’ casino proposal failed. The developer was unable to choose or properly vet a casino operator. Unambiguously located in both East Boston and Revere, the developer failed to win the East Boston vote. Massachusetts law clearly states that if a proposed casino is located in more than one city or town, it must win a referendum vote in both communities, M.G.L. c. 23K, § 15(13). East Boston said NO; Suffolk Downs’ casino application is dead.
Suffolk Downs is now trying to circumvent the law by suggesting it can simply "move the goalposts" to the Revere side, but a Revere-only casino is not what residents of East Boston or Revere were called to vote for. East Boston voters said "no" to the impacts that a Suffolk Downs casino would bring, and a Revere-only casino will create the same impacts. Enough is enough - Suffolk Downs is no longer a legitimate contender. Any attempt to move forward with a Revere-only casino proposal is a deliberate effort to disenfranchise East Boston voters and circumvent the clear intent of the law. No Eastie Casino is outraged this idea could even be entertained.
East Boston residents expect and demand our elected officials to uphold and enforce the law, stand for the will of the people, and reject Suffolk Downs' last ditch effort to install a casino in our community.
No Eastie Casino calls on the Massachusetts Gaming Commission to adhere to the proper licensing procedures, M.G.L. c. 23K, 205 CMR, and application deadlines previously set forth. The law is clear and the voters have spoken. We insist that Suffolk Downs be immediately removed from consideration for a gaming license.
We will not tolerate any breach of the law or the public process. We will continue to fight to keep East Boston safe for families and small businesses. We will not stop until this threat to our community has been removed once and for all.
No Eastie Casino
Wednesday, November 6, 2013
This just in: No Eastie Casino: Tuesday's vote demonstrates we deserve better than a casino
(Editor's Note: The mayor of Revere doesn't think the Suffolk Downs casino debate is over; No Eastie Casino keeps fighting Rizzo's illusions)
(Boston - November 6, 2013) -- "We are pleased with the results of Tuesday's election. East Boston voters went to the polls and emphatically stated that they don't believe the promises put forth by wealthy casino developers. To the prospect of one of the hemisphere's largest casinos -- yet another burdensome development in our neighborhood - Eastie residents said, 'No - enough is enough.'"
"Our campaign began with two primary goals: to defeat the proposed casino, and to do so in a way that elevated the discussion about what is possible in our community and remove the barriers that have kept many of us apart for too long. Together, we organized, strategized, researched, canvassed, and reached out to our neighbors, small businesses, and communities of faith. Our movement is led by women and men across all faiths, income and education levels, ages, professions, nationalities, newcomers to East Boston and 'old-timers.'"
"We are deeply disappointed and concerned that, within minutes of finding out that voters in East Boston had resoundingly rejected Suffolk Downs' casino proposal, its wealthy owners and investors were already mobilizing to find a way around the voice of the people and Massachusetts gambling law." "It is clear upon review of the statute that the casino referendum needed to pass in both East Boston and Revere in order for the developers to move forward. East Boston's voters have spoken: we do not want a casino in our community. We renew our call for Suffolk Downs' owners and board members to withdraw."
"We believe that this last-ditch attempt by Suffolk Downs developers to move the goalposts after the vote shows that casino owners will continue to put profits before people. For these reasons, many members of No Eastie Casino have been working with the grassroots group Repeal the Casino Deal to repeal the gambling law by putting it to a statewide vote in 2014."
"We are prepared to continue our work to keep East Boston a vibrant, welcoming community for families and small businesses where equitable economic development--not development that preys on middle-income, working class and low-income families--is encouraged. We call upon the Massachusetts Gaming Commission to follow the law. We respectfully request that Mayor Menino, Mayor-elect Walsh and the City Council take East Boston's resounding 'no' for an answer on the casino question, protecting it from casinos in surrounding communities as well."
(Boston - November 6, 2013) -- "We are pleased with the results of Tuesday's election. East Boston voters went to the polls and emphatically stated that they don't believe the promises put forth by wealthy casino developers. To the prospect of one of the hemisphere's largest casinos -- yet another burdensome development in our neighborhood - Eastie residents said, 'No - enough is enough.'"
"Our campaign began with two primary goals: to defeat the proposed casino, and to do so in a way that elevated the discussion about what is possible in our community and remove the barriers that have kept many of us apart for too long. Together, we organized, strategized, researched, canvassed, and reached out to our neighbors, small businesses, and communities of faith. Our movement is led by women and men across all faiths, income and education levels, ages, professions, nationalities, newcomers to East Boston and 'old-timers.'"
"We are deeply disappointed and concerned that, within minutes of finding out that voters in East Boston had resoundingly rejected Suffolk Downs' casino proposal, its wealthy owners and investors were already mobilizing to find a way around the voice of the people and Massachusetts gambling law." "It is clear upon review of the statute that the casino referendum needed to pass in both East Boston and Revere in order for the developers to move forward. East Boston's voters have spoken: we do not want a casino in our community. We renew our call for Suffolk Downs' owners and board members to withdraw."
"We believe that this last-ditch attempt by Suffolk Downs developers to move the goalposts after the vote shows that casino owners will continue to put profits before people. For these reasons, many members of No Eastie Casino have been working with the grassroots group Repeal the Casino Deal to repeal the gambling law by putting it to a statewide vote in 2014."
"We are prepared to continue our work to keep East Boston a vibrant, welcoming community for families and small businesses where equitable economic development--not development that preys on middle-income, working class and low-income families--is encouraged. We call upon the Massachusetts Gaming Commission to follow the law. We respectfully request that Mayor Menino, Mayor-elect Walsh and the City Council take East Boston's resounding 'no' for an answer on the casino question, protecting it from casinos in surrounding communities as well."
Monday, November 4, 2013
Ray Flynn's remarks at anti-casino rally in East Boston, November 3, 2013
(Edited by FC)
What a dedicated group of East Boston citizens here fighting for a better community. Heroes are what you are. But I'm not surprised. This is the history of the people of East Boston and hopefully still will be.
I loved coming over to East Boston when I was young, visiting family friends, playing a lot of sports ( football, baseball, and basketball), which was long before I ever thought about being Mayor, Ambassador, State Representative or a Boston City Councilor. Whether it was going to Mass at Our Lady of Mount Carmel or The Assumption Church and than Sunday Dinner at a family friends house, the Columbus Day Parade, later singing Italian songs with the elderly at Don Orione Home, playing basketball with the kids at Orient Heights or talking with my father and Kathy's father's friends at the East Boston docks where they worked, and I worked down the docks during the Summer as well.
Kathy's Dad was a member of ILA right here in East Boston. It was always special. This is where I first witnessed community organizing in the 70's, whether it was opposition to airport expansion, escalating electric rates, traffic from the track, and gas tankers.
People like Lucy, Anna, Mary Ellen, Pixie, fought like tigers to protect this community and keep it great. Everybody knew each other and was active in the community. The neighborhood business districts were thriving, the Churches were filled every Sunday, you could hear hundreds of kids playing in every playground. East Boston Stadium, now named after my friend Probation Officer Jimmy Sartori, the Jets, Tornado's, Fittons, St. Lazarus, and the gym at Maverick. Names like Costigan, Marmo,Verone, Ivers, Lauria, Romano, Buonapane, Contilli, Bravaro, and O'Leary were leading East Boston High School to championships. Many went on to do the same in college. I know, I played against some of them.
Nobody has to tell me about East Boston, I spent a lot of time here, long before I got involved in politics.
No Boston neighborhood was more family-oriented, largely Italian, (but it had a lot of Irish at one time,) or had as much civic pride in fighting to protect its quality of life than East Boston. Mothers blocked runways and tunnels, we fought to re-open police and fire stations during Proposition 2 1/2. You raised money at benefit spaghetti dinners to support the cheerleaders and girls soccer teams, Joe Cuneo brought hundreds of people together to help sick kids at St. Jude's Hospital. Does anyone remember him? I do, I was there. Ok, so I'm talking about my days, the 50's, 60's, 70's, 80's, and the early 90's, a great neighborhood, but it changed dramatically the last 15 years.
Latinos and a lot of young professionals moved in. The public schools deteriorated. Drugs and a lot of poor. So what's the solution to make the community strong once again? A gambling casino which will dominate and define the neighborhood which will Lead to Decline in residential property values. Increase Crime. Prostitution. Strip Bars. Unbearable Traffic through East Boston streets. Small businesses will be hurt.
So a big Gambling Casino is now the American urban proposal for what is really needed in cities? And not jobs and affordable housing for working families. How about a new American Urban Marshall Plan for potentially vibrant communities like East Boston. Where do people who are willing to work hard, play by the rules, need affordable housing go to find that hope and opportunity. Certainly this dream is no longer available in South Boston, or Charlestown. Plenty of luxury condos and roof decks. And if this gambling casino goes through, East Boston will never be the once proud livable family neighborhood again either.
So why is Gambling Casino going in East Boston? Because the poor and Latino people live there and are desperate for any kind of job. Because they don't have any political clout? I see them as Honest Decent people willing to work hard for a decent wage. Trying to support their families. We all admire them for that, but why can we do better as a city.
An American city should be a place where people come with a dream for a more positive and hopeful future. The kind of community that East Boson and my South Boston community used to be.
What does East Boston need? Let me tell you, a lot of kids in Little League, good schools, people working in factories, on the docks like my father, small businesses, laborers rebuilding the roads and building some housing for the elderly and schools for kids.
What about a medical research center? I just drove my daughter and her 7 year old son who was born a special needs child. When he tries to walk he falls and he can't talk. They are on their way to the National Institute of Health in Maryland to see if medical doctors can find a cure for Braeden and other children's struggles. Why can't we do that research right here in East Boston? Medical research and plenty of good jobs for people willing to get training and work hard. That's called Pride and that's America, That's what is needed in Boston at this time. Frankly, I'm convinced that this can happen, but it all begins with you and the people of East Boston on Tuesday. It's now all in your hands.
Boston is about to move in a more enlightened direction. A new vision of a better, open and more caring Boston. This is a time to think about what can be. Reject this silly Gambling proposal and bring this community together with a new, visionary and balanced economic plan which will create good jobs for East Boston residents, safer streets and better schools for your children. Do that and you will be proud to say, "East Boston Is My Hometown" once again.
Ray Flynn
(Ray Flynn served as mayor from 1984 to 1993, when he was appointed as the U.S. Ambassador to the Vatican.)
What a dedicated group of East Boston citizens here fighting for a better community. Heroes are what you are. But I'm not surprised. This is the history of the people of East Boston and hopefully still will be.
I loved coming over to East Boston when I was young, visiting family friends, playing a lot of sports ( football, baseball, and basketball), which was long before I ever thought about being Mayor, Ambassador, State Representative or a Boston City Councilor. Whether it was going to Mass at Our Lady of Mount Carmel or The Assumption Church and than Sunday Dinner at a family friends house, the Columbus Day Parade, later singing Italian songs with the elderly at Don Orione Home, playing basketball with the kids at Orient Heights or talking with my father and Kathy's father's friends at the East Boston docks where they worked, and I worked down the docks during the Summer as well.
Kathy's Dad was a member of ILA right here in East Boston. It was always special. This is where I first witnessed community organizing in the 70's, whether it was opposition to airport expansion, escalating electric rates, traffic from the track, and gas tankers.
People like Lucy, Anna, Mary Ellen, Pixie, fought like tigers to protect this community and keep it great. Everybody knew each other and was active in the community. The neighborhood business districts were thriving, the Churches were filled every Sunday, you could hear hundreds of kids playing in every playground. East Boston Stadium, now named after my friend Probation Officer Jimmy Sartori, the Jets, Tornado's, Fittons, St. Lazarus, and the gym at Maverick. Names like Costigan, Marmo,Verone, Ivers, Lauria, Romano, Buonapane, Contilli, Bravaro, and O'Leary were leading East Boston High School to championships. Many went on to do the same in college. I know, I played against some of them.
Nobody has to tell me about East Boston, I spent a lot of time here, long before I got involved in politics.
No Boston neighborhood was more family-oriented, largely Italian, (but it had a lot of Irish at one time,) or had as much civic pride in fighting to protect its quality of life than East Boston. Mothers blocked runways and tunnels, we fought to re-open police and fire stations during Proposition 2 1/2. You raised money at benefit spaghetti dinners to support the cheerleaders and girls soccer teams, Joe Cuneo brought hundreds of people together to help sick kids at St. Jude's Hospital. Does anyone remember him? I do, I was there. Ok, so I'm talking about my days, the 50's, 60's, 70's, 80's, and the early 90's, a great neighborhood, but it changed dramatically the last 15 years.
Latinos and a lot of young professionals moved in. The public schools deteriorated. Drugs and a lot of poor. So what's the solution to make the community strong once again? A gambling casino which will dominate and define the neighborhood which will Lead to Decline in residential property values. Increase Crime. Prostitution. Strip Bars. Unbearable Traffic through East Boston streets. Small businesses will be hurt.
So a big Gambling Casino is now the American urban proposal for what is really needed in cities? And not jobs and affordable housing for working families. How about a new American Urban Marshall Plan for potentially vibrant communities like East Boston. Where do people who are willing to work hard, play by the rules, need affordable housing go to find that hope and opportunity. Certainly this dream is no longer available in South Boston, or Charlestown. Plenty of luxury condos and roof decks. And if this gambling casino goes through, East Boston will never be the once proud livable family neighborhood again either.
So why is Gambling Casino going in East Boston? Because the poor and Latino people live there and are desperate for any kind of job. Because they don't have any political clout? I see them as Honest Decent people willing to work hard for a decent wage. Trying to support their families. We all admire them for that, but why can we do better as a city.
An American city should be a place where people come with a dream for a more positive and hopeful future. The kind of community that East Boson and my South Boston community used to be.
What does East Boston need? Let me tell you, a lot of kids in Little League, good schools, people working in factories, on the docks like my father, small businesses, laborers rebuilding the roads and building some housing for the elderly and schools for kids.
What about a medical research center? I just drove my daughter and her 7 year old son who was born a special needs child. When he tries to walk he falls and he can't talk. They are on their way to the National Institute of Health in Maryland to see if medical doctors can find a cure for Braeden and other children's struggles. Why can't we do that research right here in East Boston? Medical research and plenty of good jobs for people willing to get training and work hard. That's called Pride and that's America, That's what is needed in Boston at this time. Frankly, I'm convinced that this can happen, but it all begins with you and the people of East Boston on Tuesday. It's now all in your hands.
Boston is about to move in a more enlightened direction. A new vision of a better, open and more caring Boston. This is a time to think about what can be. Reject this silly Gambling proposal and bring this community together with a new, visionary and balanced economic plan which will create good jobs for East Boston residents, safer streets and better schools for your children. Do that and you will be proud to say, "East Boston Is My Hometown" once again.
Ray Flynn
(Ray Flynn served as mayor from 1984 to 1993, when he was appointed as the U.S. Ambassador to the Vatican.)
Thursday, October 31, 2013
Wednesday, October 30, 2013
Ray Flynn speaks out against casino in East Boston
Former Mayor Ray Flynn says casinos exploit the poor! He's right! Casino discussion with NECN's Jim Braude comes in around 5:40.
Saturday, October 19, 2013
East Boston resident calls upon Suffolk Downs to withdraw casino application
East Boston resident and casino opponent Ernani DeAraujo criticizes City of Boston for embracing SD casino proposal without "due diligence."
"According to the Boston Globe, Caesars was disqualified because of alleged mob ties overseas. I think the ownership of Suffolk Downs owes the City of Boston and especially the residents of East Boston an apology for not doing their due diligence in selecting their "world class" partner and for trying to yoke us to a casino operator that is engaging in allegedly unethical and criminal behavior. This is a complete embarrassment for our City that embraced Caesars on Suffolk's recommendation and Suffolk Downs should say sorry and withdraw their application to end this fiasco."
"According to the Boston Globe, Caesars was disqualified because of alleged mob ties overseas. I think the ownership of Suffolk Downs owes the City of Boston and especially the residents of East Boston an apology for not doing their due diligence in selecting their "world class" partner and for trying to yoke us to a casino operator that is engaging in allegedly unethical and criminal behavior. This is a complete embarrassment for our City that embraced Caesars on Suffolk's recommendation and Suffolk Downs should say sorry and withdraw their application to end this fiasco."
Tuesday, July 2, 2013
No Eastie Casino issues a "Declaration of Independence"
This in from No Eastie Casino!
A Declaration of Independence
WE THE PEOPLE of East Boston -- representing neighbors who have lived here their whole lives and those who have only been here a few years; "old-timers," newborn babies, and everything in between; bankers and builders; lawyers and full-time moms; every shade of skin color and country of origin; diverse religious beliefs and none at all; wealthy, middle-class and struggling to get by; drinkers of Dunkin', Honey Dew, and Market Café; gamblers and non-gamblers; married and single; from the Heights to the Flats to Jeffries Point; Eagle Hill to Maverick -- declare, with one voice:
A Declaration of Independence
WE THE PEOPLE of East Boston -- representing neighbors who have lived here their whole lives and those who have only been here a few years; "old-timers," newborn babies, and everything in between; bankers and builders; lawyers and full-time moms; every shade of skin color and country of origin; diverse religious beliefs and none at all; wealthy, middle-class and struggling to get by; drinkers of Dunkin', Honey Dew, and Market Café; gamblers and non-gamblers; married and single; from the Heights to the Flats to Jeffries Point; Eagle Hill to Maverick -- declare, with one voice:
- independence from financially compromised, predatory corporations who want to take what we have;
- independence from additional burdens to the ones against which we already fight -- an airport, two tunnels, gas tanks, a highway, pollution;
- independence from political structures that seek corporate profits above community engagement;
- independence from flashy bribes and promises of affluence that would have us give up a lot in exchange for a little;
- independence to make our own way and choose our own destiny as a neighborhood -- a destiny fueled by hard work, small businesses, our immigrant spirit, and our shared commitment to each other;
- independence to raise our children in a safe neighborhood free from unnecessary obstacles, temptations, and false hopes;
- independence to continue building an environmentally and economically sustainable future for our children and grandchildren;
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