Save the date! Greenway Celebration, August 21

Save the Date!
East Boston Greenway Connector
Community Celebration
Thursday, August 21, 2014
5:30 p.m.

Science at the EB-BPL on Bremen Street

Science at the Library

Bringing biotechnology to you!

CityLab is bringing our lab on wheels to the library! Join us to solve medical mysteries and do real science!

• Program runs from August 19-21
• East Boston branch- 365 Bremen St
• Free!
• 12-3pm
• Open to ages 10-14
• Sign up at the library or email citylabboston@gmail.com

www.bumc.bu.edu/citylab

East Boston and Revere Casino Opponents to Boycott Final Commission Hearing, Calling it an 'Illegitimate Sham,' and will Throw Full Energy Into Repeal

PRESS RELEASE

(East Boston, MA August 11, 2014) --A coalition of groups opposing Greater Boston casinos -- including No Eastie Casino, Don't Gamble on Revere, Friends of East Boston and Friends of Revere -- announced today they have called an official boycott of the Monday, August 11, Massachusetts Gaming Commission Host Community Meeting in Revere, MA. 

"After months of trying to fight through an illegitimate, illegal process that has denied the people of East Boston the rule of law by denying our vote, our core groups are throwing our full weight behind the work to Repeal the Casino Deal across the Commonwealth of Massachusetts," said No Eastie Casino spokesman Matt Cameron. "We are boycotting the corrupt, illegitimate sham of a hearing at the Mass Gaming Commission on August 11."

According to the Massachusetts gaming statute passed by our legislature and signed by Governor Deval Patrick, if a proposed casino is located in two communities, both communities must vote to allow the development of that casino to enable that proposal to move forward.  On November 5, 2013, 56 percent of East Boston residents voted no to a proposed casino at Suffolk Downs. That proposed casino was to be built completely in East Boston on Suffolk Downs' property -- two-thirds of which is in East Boston.  The people of Revere also voted on this proposal because the land was in both towns, and people recognized that Revere offered amenities which are statutorily considered part of a casino for the purposes of designating host community status. 

Legally, the casino proposal at Suffolk Downs should then have died.  However, in furtherance of a corrupt process, the Massachusetts Gaming Commission allowed Mohegan Sun to collude with Suffolk Downs to create the illusion that a proposed casino along the Revere-East Boston line does not require an East Boston vote.  The Massachusetts Gaming Commission joined and promoted that collusion-even extending their deadline; even now, their decision will be based on incomplete information due to the failure of the Mohegan Sun-Suffolk Downs entity to file all the necessary, updated, accurate paperwork in a timely fashion. Together, this colluding group willfully withheld information for months that the Gaming Commission later agreed would likely have proven East Boston to be a host community; they called this information--a critical clause in a lease -- "a trade secret."  When the City of Boston's attorneys pursued this information, the Gaming Commission -- both supposed watch dog and enabler -- communicated with Mohegan Sun, and somehow, the questionable "trade secret" lease clause was removed from the lease. This happened five months after the Gaming Commission had said Revere could have another vote, but East Boston would not have one. 

As a result of this and other demonstrated irregularities in this Region A decision process, a complaint and request for investigation of the Massachusetts Gaming Commission has been filed with the Commonwealth Inspector General's office.   

Multiple East Boston residents have repeatedly attempted to speak in front of the Massachusetts Gaming Commission. Meanwhile, the Gaming Commission has given first preference in testimony to elected officials.  Unfortunately, although 56 percent of East Boston residents voted NO, the great majority of elected officials who have spoken at hearings have been pro-casino officials from other communities.  The Gaming Commission has repeatedly willfully ignored the valid legal concerns of Mayor Marty Walsh.  Mohegan Sun and Suffolk Downs have literally fed and bused in supporters to create the false semblance of much greater support for this proposal than exists on the ground.  As grassroots organizations, No Eastie Casino and Don't Gamble on Revere do not have the resources to feed or bus in our supporters; furthermore, many of our supporters have jobs and families and are not able to leave work to attend meetings. Many casino supporters, on the other hand, are paid by Suffolk Downs or the City of Revere to show up at hearings as part of their work.  

Multiple East Boston residents have repeatedly attempted to speak in front of the Mass Gaming Commission.  Meanwhile, the Mass Gaming Commission has given first preference in testimony to elected officials.  Unfortunately, although 56% of East Boston residents voted NO, the great majority of elected officials who have spoken at hearings have been pro-casino officials from other communities.  The Gaming Commission has repeatedly willfully ignored the valid legal concerns of Mayor Marty Walsh.  Mohegan Sun and Suffolk Downs have literally fed and bused in supporters to create the false semblance of much greater support for this proposal than exists on the ground.  As a grassroots organization, No Eastie Casino does not have the resources to feed or bus in our supporters; furthermore, many of our supporters have jobs and families and are not able to leave work to attend meetings (many casino supporters are paid by Suffolk Downs or the City of Revere to show up at hearings as part of their work).  

"The people of East Boston stand firm in the belief that the Commonwealth of Massachusetts has allowed this illegal violation of the rule of law because the corrupt casino industry has spent millions of dollars to encourage just this outcome," Cameron said. "We also strongly believe this flagrant violation of our vote would not be happening in a wealthier community. We also strongly believe that this Commonwealth was founded on principals of justice, fairness and sharing of the common wealth. We strongly believe this is not yet an aristocracy, but retains at least some semblance of democracy -- and will continue to do so if we continue to fight for it. We believe our fellow citizens, once duly educated about this corrupt and unfair process, will stand with us in voting to repeal this flawed legislation and restore a greater measure of democracy and fairness to this Commonwealth. This state has been a leader in recognizing the rights of many -- and we know, likewise, this state's good people will recognize the right of the people of East Boston to have a vote, to vote NO, and to have that vote carry the same weight as the vote of any other commonwealth community." 

On August 11, 2014, the core group members from Don't Gamble on Revere, Friends of East Boston, Friends of Revere and No Eastie Casino will be working diligently to advance the campaign to repeal this law. Should you have any questions, please contact us at the Repeal the Casino Deal headquarters in East Boston. Our work there will serve as our protest of the Mass Gaming Commission's sham hearing.

Source for this Press Release: Repeal the Casino Deal, 617-981-4177

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

State Representative Candidate Celeste Ribeiro Myers Calls for Three Public Debates in East Boston

(EAST BOSTON, MA July 31, 2014) —Celeste Ribeiro Myers, candidate for Suffolk County’s State Representative seat in the First District, today invited her opponent, Rep. Carlo Basile, to participate in three public debates or forums leading up to the Nov. 4 election. In a letter to the Basile campaign Thursday, the Myers campaign called for three public debates: one focusing on development in East Boston, another chosen by the Basile campaign, and a third debate covering a variety of topics.

“Voters should know where we come down on issues affecting East Boston and have the opportunity to hear our respective visions for this community, which no doubt differ in many ways,” the letter states.

The letter also requests a meeting between representatives of each campaign to finalize debate topics and discuss possible sponsors, venues and formats, and asks the Basile campaign to respond by next Wednesday.

Myers, a lifelong East Boston resident, is known for leading the ballot question campaign group No Eastie Casino, which successfully defeated a proposal to site a casino at Suffolk Downs in East Boston on Nov. 5, 2013. (Basile opposed an area casino as a candidate in 2007 but vigorously supported casino plans in the run-up to the vote).

Earlier this month, Myers asked Basile to join her in rejecting campaign contributions from special interest groups, including lobbyists. The Basile campaign has not yet responded to the request to take the “people’s pledge.”

Myers’ robust platform includes plans to give residents more say in how Eastie develops; transportation improvements; job creation and economic development; health; and equality and inclusion for all. Check out her entire platform at www.celesteforeastboston.com.

Source: Steve Holt, 617-447-6519

Festival Italia set for August 22 and August 23 in Wakefield

(WAKEFIELD, MA, July 30, 2014) Festival Italia, a two-day community-wide event, will be held on Friday evening August 22 and Saturday afternoon August 23, 2014. 

Friday, August 22nd 6:00 pm at the Sheraton Colonial North Hotel located on Audubon Road in Wakefield: You will experience an evening of fine cuisine provided by top area restaurants along with a cash bar, dessert table, music, dancing, raffles and a door prize.  This is 21+ event, and tickets can be purchased at the Wakefield Daily Item (Mon – Fri) and Smith’s Drug (Mon – Sat).  This event was sold out last year.

Saturday August 23rd 2:00-8:00 pm in downtown Wakefield (portions of Main St. and Albion St. will be closed to traffic):  Downtown Wakefield will become Little Italy.  The Event Planning Committee (EPC), organizers of this annual event, promises the vibe of an authentic Italian neighborhood street festival without having to leave Wakefield.  There will be food from local eateries, street vendors, entertainment, four live bands, beer garden, wine vineyard, meatball contest, shopping, and a host of children’s activities. 
Go to www.wakefieldepc.com to view updates on the event. 

Fire on Webster Street in Jeffries Point section of East Boston

Globe: Fire rips through three buildings in East Boston

Firefighter walks back from fire scene on Sumner St. (7/30/14) Photo credits Eastboston.com

Stand For Democracy and Don Berwick for Governor Campaigns Agree to Work Collaboratively in the Fight Against Casinos

Source Sunha Kim, (310) 710-3348, spk454@mail.harvard.edu

Leaders from both Stand For Democracy and Don Berwick for Governor campaigns met last week to discuss the repeal of the 2011 Expanded Gaming Act. Both organizations have agreed to work collaboratively towards repealing the commonwealth’s casino law and promoting Berwick’s stance as the only candidate opposed to casinos and supporting the repeal. “We have taken a close look at all of the gubernatorial candidates and their stance on casinos in Massachusetts. Don Berwick’s position against casinos is the only one in line with that of Stand For Democracy”, said Pedro Morales, one of the founders of Stand For Democracy.

Stand For Democracy is an organization that emanates from the successful 2013 anti-casino campaign in East Boston. “Don was inspired by the ability of grassroots activists to take on powerful corporate interests in the East Boston casino referendum. It is exciting to collaborate with some of the leaders of that movement, and we look forward to working together to promote Don’s position on this crucial issue around the state,” said David Marsh of the Berwick campaign. A schedule of joint events will be released shortly.  

Friends of the East Boston Greenway With the East Boston Greenway Council Meets on July 24, Thursday

Thursday July 24, 2014
6:30 – 7:30 p.m.
East Boston YMCA, 215 Bremen St.

1.  Introductions and Welcome  

2.  Greenway Safety and Security Update 
•  Boston Police Dept. –Community Service Officer Simons, District A-7

3.  Continuing the Greenway
•  Wood Island Link Section “Greenway Connector,” Massport (invited) 
-  Soft opening expected Wed. July 23
-  Community opening celebration – date and plans?
•  Narrow Gauge Section to Constitution Beach, BRA (invited)
- Permitting progress, project status and updated 2014 timeline

4.  Programs & Volunteers
•  Youth Conservation Corps – Teens working mornings on Greenway through 8/15
•  Seed Share open at EB Library, Seed Saving Workshop Sat 6/26 12:00pm
•  NEW! Cooking workshops with BNAN and EB Ashley St YMCA 
Tuesdays 8/5, 8/19, 9/9 5:30 – 7:00pm
•  Boston Parks Dept Open Space Plan Meeting: Wednesday, August 6, 6:30 p.m.
Paris Street Community Center, 12 Paris Street

5.  New Business

CALENDAR OF MEETINGS
All meetings on 4th Thurs at East Boston YMCA, 215 Bremen Street at 6:30 p.m.
Upcoming meetings: 

August T/B/A;  Thurs. Sept. 25;  Thurs. Oct. 23

Source: Candace Cook

July 16: Jeffries Point Neighborhood Association Meeting; BRA to present

July 16th 7pm at the Jeffries Point Yacht Club.
 
This is a very full meeting, and all residents are welcome to attend and participate.
 
Agenda:

BRA Article 80 presentation, BRA staff- this is an opportunity for residents to learn more about the BRA Article 80 process and for the JPNA to learn more about being involved.
 
254 Sumner Street, formerly Dollar Rent a Car- rehabilitation to school and office facilities for East Boston Neighborhood Health Center
 
320 Maverick Street, currently an empty lot, development of an article 80 residential facility
 
135 Bremen Street, formerly Paul's Low Cost Airport Parking, a mixed use development including commercial space and 94 proposed residential units. (informational)

Parks Department announces Open Space Plan Meetings: East Boston meeting set for August 6

The City of Boston is preparing a new citywide Open Space Plan for the years 2015 to 2021.  As part of this effort, the Boston Parks and Recreation Department developed and launched a survey questionnaire to enable the public to provide input about their park use and preferences.

The Parks Department will be holding a citywide series of public meetings from July 21 to August 14 to discuss the results of the survey.  With this information the Parks Department is developing a multi-year integrated plan for open space protection and development.

Public participation is crucial to the success of the Open Space Plan and the key ingredient to helping us make our parks and open spaces better.  The Plan looks at all public open space, regardless of ownership, including parks, playgrounds, squares, malls, urban wilds, community gardens, cemeteries, greenways, trails, thoroughfares, and harbor islands.  The Plan will also look at demographic and socio-economic data for how the use of open space can be affected in the future.

As part of the data collection process, an environmental inventory is being compiled enabling natural areas to be targeted for protection and stewardship in a priority plan. Natural features of our parks, rivers and harbors, wildlife, geologic features, soils, and vegetation become part of this truly comprehensive Open Space Plan.

Open space advocates, parents, caregivers, and all users of Boston’s parks are invited to attend these meetings.  Dates and locations are as follows. 

6:30 p.m. 
Wednesday, August 6; 6:30 p.m.
Paris Street Community Center
12 Paris Street, East Boston

Wakefield to hold 5th Annual Festival Italia Aug. 22-23

Visitor Center and Museum Meeting set for August 4, 2014

Monday, August 4th, 6:00PM, Maverick Landing Community Room.  Please come with your ideas.

Maverick Marketplace Receives Prestigious Award From Boston Preservation Alliance

EAST BOSTON - The 2014 Boston Preservation Alliance Awards have been announced. Among the 10 high profile, big budget projects that received the award year is an unusual entry from a local husband and wife team using their own funds and labor.   

The owners of Maverick Marketplace (the former East Boston Welfare Building at 154 Maverick Street), John and Melissa Tyler, are proud today that their renovation this building has been recognized by the BPA.

The competition was fierce. According to the BPA this years entries were "our strongest group of nominations in the Award's twenty-six year history". The Alliance selected winners based on their "outstanding contributions to preservation and the character of Boston's built environment".

"Recognition of the hard work of our team that completed this two-year renovation is important to us" said John Tyler. "I am really proud of my wife, Melissa who was not only the vision and driving force of this project but also the General Contractor in charge of the day-to-day work on the building".

"The award is really a great accomplishment for our neighborhood project", said Melissa Tyler. "But what really makes us proud is the 17 new businesses that call the building home. They are generating jobs and wealth for their families on a corner of Maverick square that had been abandoned and empty for 24 years".

In a joint statement John and Melissa Tyler said "We wish to thank the City of Boston's Department of Neighborhood Development, and First Priority Credit Union whose faith in us enabled this project to go ahead and allow us to show that small, local developers can invest in their communities and produce huge results.  We would like to thank our elected officials who helped support this project from the initial Request For Proposal, to zoning and permitting and to occupancy permit. Most of all we would like to thank the community of East Boston that visit the building and do business within it."

Other winners this year include Liberty Mutual's headquarters in Back Bay, the LogMein Headquarters in Fort Point Channel and the North Bennet Street School in the North End.

Previous years winners include the Boston Museum of Fine Arts, the Isabella Stuart Gardener Museum extension and the new Spaulding rehabilitation hospital facility in Charlestown. Previous winners from East Boston include the Sumner Street Firehouse that houses Zumix and the Barnes School at 127 Marion Street.

On the first floor retail level, the Maverick Marketplace building houses:

    Hugisses Gift shop, specializing in handmade invitations, gifts and designs
    Shirley's Boutique, specializing in women's clothing imported from Colombia
    On/Off Computer and cellphone repair and service
    Inner Harbor Jewelers, watch repair and sales, custom jewelry creations and repair
    Adri's custom tailoring and alterations
    Amistad shoe repair
    Marketplace cafe offering organic coffees, teas and breakfast and lunch and (perhaps one day beer and wine!).

The second floor houses:

    Atlas travel agent and translation services
    Webtilia website design and consulting
    Didi's Spa, providing massage and other spa services
    Adonis MD cosmetic surgery service and consulting
    On/Off computer classes
    Babbling Brook tuition for all school age groups.
    Maverick Square Acupuncture
    Tax Center tax preparation services
    Accord counseling and mediation service
    Super Cargo shipping service

The third and fourth floor of the building house two apartments.

The Preservation Achievement Awards Ceremony will be held Tuesday, October 21, 2014 at historic Faneuil Hall in downtown Boston.

Source: 154 Maverick newsletter

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

Politics 2014: State Representative Candidate Celeste Ribeiro Myers Challenges Opponent to Refuse Special Interest Donations

(EAST BOSTON, MA, July 8, 2014)—Celeste Ribeiro Myers, candidate for Suffolk County’s State Representative seat in the First District, today committed to refusing campaign donations from special interest organizations and political action committees and challenged her opponent to do the same. In a letter to Rep. Carlo Basile, Myers also asked the incumbent to join her in refusing donations fron groups and organizations with a special interest in legislation before the House of Representatives.

“By joining together in this ‘people’s pledge,’” she wrote, “we will send a message to voters over the coming months that we are beholden to only them, rather than any outside special interest groups.”

Lobbyists and special interest organizations have given millions to candidates across the Commonwealth in an effort to influence their legislative priorities. Myers notes in her letter to Basile that East Boston has seen numerous groups attempt to impose their will on the neighborhood over the years and specifically cited the almost $3 million spent by Suffolk Downs and Caesars Entertainment leading up to their unsuccessful casino referendum in November. And with a question on the ballot that could repeal the 2011 casino law, millions more are sure to pour into East Boston and throughout the state in the coming months from casino companies and their lobbyists.

“I know you’ll agree that East Boston is a special place, a place where residents are invested in our community and know what is best for ourselves,” she wrote. “As we saw at the polls last November, voters here are savvy and do not fall for the messages from outside groups attempting to impose their will on us. They are disgusted with special interest money, its influence and how it undermines the democratic process because they have seen it in this community, across the state and across the nation.”

Myers, a lifelong East Boston resident, officially kicked off her campaign for State Representative on June 26 at an energetic event with more than 150 supporters on-hand. Former state Secretary of Transportation James Aloisi introduced Myers at the event, lauding her political courage and urging East Boston residents to send her to the State House. Myers is known for leading the ballot question campaign group No Eastie Casino, which successfully defeated a proposal to site a casino at Suffolk Downs in East Boston on Nov. 5, 2013. (her opponent, Basile, opposed an area casino as a candidate in 2007 but vigorously supported casino plans in the run-up to the vote)

Myers’ robust platform includes plans to give residents more say in how Eastie develops; transportation improvements; job creation and economic development; health; and equality and inclusion for all. Check out her entire platform at www.celesteforeastboston.com.

Media Contact: Steve Holt, 978-494-6109 

Source: Myers Campaign 7/8/2014

East Boston Main Streets Honored By Boston City Council

East Boston, MA (June 28, 2014) – On Friday, June 15th, East Boston Main Streets Executive Director Max Gruner and Director of Community Outreach Antonio Arevalo were presented by City Councilor Sal Lamattina with a commendation from the Boston City Council recognizing Main Streets’ effort in successfully bringing the inaugural Eastie Week 2014 to the East Boston Community.

“A special thanks and token of appreciation needs to be paid to Max Gruner and Antonio Arevalo,” said Councilor Sal Lamattina. “Not only did they organize 10 days of successful programming for Eastie Week, they never cease to take advantage of every opportunity to incorporate all of the residents of East Boston no matter what the holiday or occasion may be. These two men symbolize what makes East Boston stand out from the rest of the city, the ability to accept and include everyone and make them feel at home. No one should ever be afraid to embrace their culture or where they came from and Max and Antonio know that all too well. Congratulations and keep up the great work”!

After having organized consecutive daily events for a week and a half that included a complimentary harbor cruise enjoyed by over 700 East Boston residents, open studios highlighting two original art installations commissioned especially for Eastie Week, an original documentary movie screening produced for East Boston, as well as numerous social events that included community yoga and salsa socials, the East Boston Main Streets team was found celebrating Fathers’ Day at the culminating Block-Party on Maverick Street.  “It is wonderful to see EBMS’ effort in the community recognized by the city council, and I am particularly honored to see our great and hard working staff be acknowledged in this way,” said Max Gruner, executive director of EBMS.

For more details or questions please contact Max Gruner at mgruner@ebmainstreets.com or at 617-561-1044.

####
EBMS is a non-profit corporation. Its 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.

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

June 26: EB Greenway meets

Friends of the East Boston Greenway
With the East Boston Greenway Council

Thursday June 26, 2014
6:00 – 7:30 p.m.
East Boston Branch Library, 365 Bremen St.
*Note special start time & location*


AGENDA
We will move through normal meeting business
followed by a history slideshow celebrating the Greenway effort’s 20 years!

1.  Introductions and Welcome 

2.  Greenway Safety and Security Update
•  Boston Police Dept. –Community Service Officer Simons, District A-7

3.  Continuing the Greenway
•  Wood Island Link Section, Massport
    -  Construction completion update
    -  Community opening celebration – date?
•  Narrow Gauge Section to Constitution Beach, BRA
- Permitting progress, project status and updated 2014 timeline

4.  Programs & Volunteers
•  Youth Conservation Corps – Teens working mornings on Greenway 7/7 – 8/15
•  THIS SATURDAY! Sat. June 28, 10:30am: Greenspace Connections and Trees Walk in Jeffries Point. Meet at Piers Park entrance.
•  Seed Share open at EB Library

5.  New Business

6.  Greenway History Slideshow


CALENDAR OF MEETINGS
All meetings on 4th Thurs at East Boston YMCA, 215 Bremen Street at 6:30 p.m.
Upcoming meetings:
Thurs. July 24     August Mtg TBA     Thurs. Sept. 25
        Boston Natural Areas Network
        www.bostonnatural.org
        617-542-7696 • candice@bostonnatural.org

James Aloisi WWI vet travels to D.C. via Honor Flight NE

Source: Carol Ann Aloisi

James Aloisi, Sr., a longtime East Boston Resident was among a group of World War II Veterans that were taken by Honor Flight New England to visit the World War II Memorial and other memorials in Washington, D.C. Accompanying each veteran was a volunteer, or guardian (family member or program volunteer), who traveled at his or her own expense and offered assistance to the veteran throughout the trip. In addition to visiting the World War II Memorial, the veterans observed the changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery, and visited the Lincoln Memorial, the Korean War Memorial, and the Vietnam Memorial Wall.  The day drew to a close with visits to the Marine Memorial and then to the site of the Air Force Memorial, with its panoramic views of the city and soaring arches. The Honor Flight group returned to Baltimore and then flew on to Boston after a full, active day.

“What an amazing experience it was to see this memorial and to be recognized and honored for our service to this Country, I can’t thank the people at Honor Flight enough for all they did for me and all they continue to do for all the Veterans of WWII said Mr. Aloisi.

Their day began at Boston's Logan International Airport, the State Police, the Massport fire and emergency staff, the TSA staff, Southwest Airlines staff, and other airport staff greeted the veterans warmly and provided comfortable and supportive arrangements as needed. Arriving at BWI airport in Baltimore, the Honor Flight group was greeted by a large celebratory welcoming crowd and then transported by buses to Washington DC.   When they returned to Baltimore to fly home the group organized a dance right in the airport terminal with music from the WWII era.


Honor Flight New England is part of the national organization Honor Flight Network and is a non-profit organization created solely to honor America's veterans for all of their sacrifices. Through generous donations veterans have the opportunity to travel to Washington, D.C., to visit and reflect at their memorials at no personal expense. Top priority is given to the senior veterans – World War II survivors, along with those other veterans who may be terminally ill. The program is recognized as a concrete way of expressing gratitude for the service and sacrifice of US military men and women.  Since 2009 HFNE has given over 900 veterans the opportunity to visit their memorials in the nation's capital.  If you know of a WWII Veteran that wants to travel to DC to see their monument or if you would like to be a Guardian to a Veteran on one of their trips please contact this amazing organization at honorflightnewengland.org or call them at 603-518-5368