Kate’s Corner

Ordinary People, Extraordinary Stories

If you know Amy Gallagher, than you may find it hard to believe that she never pictured herself in the field of education. The ESP, substitute teacher, Quiz Bowl Co-Advisor, and Student Council Advisor is a fixture at the Winthrop Middle School, often found volunteering at local events and getting creative with fundraisers. She discovered her passion for education later in life, after working for the Red Sox team photographer and in Faneuil Hall for several years. And while she doesn’t get to attend spring training or rub elbows with famous baseball players anymore, she loves every minute she spends working at the middle school and it shows.

“Being creative with fundraisers always gets the students excited about them and makes them successful,” said Gallagher, who still spends her nights and weekends working at Faneuil Hall. “Spirit Day and raffles have raised thousands of dollars which have been donated to charities and causes voted on by the students. Standing outside and freezing during a bake sale is much easier when the kids are energized and excited to work so hard. My sister and I volunteer at the football games selling tickets, which is a great way to catch up with former students and to see old friends from around town.”

Gallagher’s fundraising efforts go beyond the average bake sale and she works hard to raise funds through social media and friends, on her mission to ensure all eligible students can attend the annual DC Trip. 

“I’m very lucky that I love both of my jobs and have wonderful coworkers and bosses.”

As one of five siblings, Gallagher was born to parents who were extremely kind and loving, leading to her natural desire to give back. She has five nephews and two nieces who are on the receiving end of her love and support, and even her homemade baskets.

“I started making baskets 20+ years ago for my nephew Mark’s kindergarten fundraiser and developed a hobby that I love. My pride and joy are my nieces and nephews who I love like they’re my own. Whether we’re on a road trip, hanging around and watching games or at cookouts there are always tons of stories and lots of laughs. Their friends have always been in and out of my house too.”

In addition to her busy life at the middle school and serving as a role model to her nieces and nephews, Gallagher is heavily involved at St. John’s Church, running the Annual Breakfast with Santa

“There is always a need in one way or another and I love to help find a way to fill it.”

Harry Olifios Dedication on Sunday

A ceremony honoring Harry Olifios  will be held on Sunday at 11 a.m. outside of the old Brown’s Rexall Store at 214 Winthrop St.

Harry who died in May 2017 and owned Brown’s for 32 years is remembered by his many friends as a kind man.

On Sunday family and friends will be on hand to have a street sign with Harry’s name  placed outside the former site of Brown’s.

In October, family and friends dedicated a bench in Metcalf Square to Harry.

Mystic Valley Elder Services Holds Toy and Coat Drive

 The holidays are synonymous with toys. It is a joyous time for most. But, for struggling families, it can be a time of stress and anxiety.  Mystic Valley Elder Services (MVES) recently held a toy drive where employees would donate toys to charitable organizations. The nearly 100 donated toys were divided between ABCD and the Salvation Army in Chelsea.  As temperatures fall this holiday season, we can’t forget about those struggling to stay warm. MVES staff also donated new and gently used winter clothing (coats, hats, gloves, etc.) to Mission of Deeds.