News, Notes and Whatever

By Phil Orlandella

FOCCP President committed to park’s mission

Leadership is paramount to have a highly successful neighborhood group.

Joanne Hayes Rines, President of the Friends of Christopher Columbus Park (FOCCP) for 15 years has played an important and successful role of quality leadership in the non-profit, all volunteer community group that cares for and provides numerous events, activities and programs in the park for everyone to enjoy.

A FOCCP member for about 30 years Joanne’s innovation, productivity and quality leadership has made the park a beautiful place to visit or participate in all the free events provided in the park each year.

Her diligent work with FOCCP members, the city and local businesses has been outstanding and extremely productive.

She should be recognized and commended for her never-ending commitment to the community.

North End resident joins Project Bread

North End resident MacKenzie Nekton has joined Project Bread as Assistant Director of Donor Campaigns & Engagements.

With a background in development, fundraising and donor engagement, she is committed to further Project Bread’s mission to end hunger throughout the state.

“Everyone deserves to eat.” Nekton said. “The fact that not everyone can afford to is unacceptable, and I am thrilled to be joining an organization that is leading the fight to end hunger.”

Elizabeth Greenhalgh, Chief Advancement Officer of Project Bread said, “MacKenzie’s energy and passion for the mission are already apparent.”

NEW Health Elaine Wilson-other scholarships available

The second annual Elaine Wilson scholarship and other scholarships have been announced by NEW Health that has been providing much needed health service to the North End for years and has expanded to Charlestown.

The scholarship is presented to an inspiring health care professional.

Wilson is the Founder of the North End Community Health Center and her scholarship will recognize a resident of the North End and Charlestown who is a matriculating student or someone applying to an institution of higher learning.

The recipient must display a genuine interest in community primary care, public health and local community outreach to those who are low income, underserved or facing health inequities.

This $2,500 scholarship is open to anyone from high school through graduate level training.

Applications can be submitted online at www.newhealthcenter.org/scholarship or printed out and dropped off at either NEW Health locations. Deadline for submission is August 1.

Library rehab committee meeting

Friends of the North End Library Renovation Committee will hold a public meeting on Wednesday, July 16 at 5:30pm at the library, 25 Parmenter Street.

Before the committee formally meets, some expectations for the group mainly and primary focus of the committee will be advocated for the renovations of the well-used and popular public facility in the North End.

The meeting will center on building support and making the ease for why renovations are needed, rather than reviewing or designing renovation plans at this time.

Residents will have the opportunity to discuss the types of improvements and updates on renovations that include, some suggestions already discussed that have been envisioned by the community.

Gassy Mural unveiled

The Friends of DeFilippo Park, known as “The Gassy” recently unveiled a beautiful and historical mural depicting the area that was once occupied by a huge gas tank.

The natural gas tank, was owned by Boston Consolidated Gas Company, towering about 110 feet tall.

The playground is now a vibrant place for neighbors to enjoy, with the Friends caring for the cleanliness of the playground and the activities that occur in the popular public space.

Now there is a mural that relates to the past.

Bocce Tournament sets record

Over $20,000 was raised at this year’s NEW Health Viva Le Bocce Tournament held at Langone Park, setting a record for funds raised at the tournament.

NEW Health has been serving the health needs of the North End community and has taken its services to Charlestown.

Seniors celebrate Independence Day

Seniors at the ABCD North End/West End neighborhood Service Center on Michelangelo Street enjoyed a delicious lunch while celebrating Independence Day.

It was a great turnout and fun events as well.

Girl Friends of the North End event

Once again, the popular and well attended Girl Friends of the North End will get together at Spinelli’s, 10 Newbury Street, Route 1 Peabody for their annual bash.

North End and former North End residents gather to discuss the old days and current issues at the noon event.

Tickets are $75 and there is free parking for the September 27 event.

Send checks by September 20 made payable to Francine Gannon and mailed to her at 741 Commercial Street, Boston, MA 02109. Include your email.

Only tables of 10 can be reserved.

NEAA kicks off Fall Soccer registration

Following last year’s very successful fall soccer program, the North End Athletic Association (NEAA) has kicked off its 2025 soccer registration.

The season will run from September 6 to November 8. Registration is $65 per player and includes a team shirt, a soccer ball and a hat.

To sign up visit www.neaasportsbostonsporting.com/neaasoccer.

Don’t get left out, registration is happening quickly.

NEW Health adds new Dental and Primary Care staff

NEW Health has once again expanded its healthcare services with the addition of three new providers to the North End site with access to high quality care for the neighborhood.

Joining team NEW Health are a new Primary Care Physician in the Family Medicine Department and two dentists who will strengthen the Dental Department’s ability to serve more patients with timely appointments and compassionate care.

Dr, Aisha Mohamed joins the Primary Care Department and Dr. Julia Filler and Dr, Thomas Guiney have been added to the Dental Department.