​Members of the East Somerville community teamed
with local businesses to draw hundreds of young basketball players
and spectators to

the first annual basketball tournament. Students
from grades 6-8 represented their neighborhoods. ​Event organizers
and East Somerville residents Judi Walker and Maisy Sullivan said
the event brought together the best the neighborhood has to offer.
​“Everyone really came through,” Walker said. “The neighbors
pitched in, the East Somerville businesses supported us, it was a
great event. I am so proud to be from East Somerville right now.”
​The event raised money for the East Somerville Community School’s
year end BBQ. A fireman’s boot was also passed around to raise
money for the victims of the recent Boston fire tragedy. Jenna
Walsh, daughter of event organizer Maisy Sullivan, followed her
mother’s example and organized the initiative. ​“I was so proud of
her,” Maisy said. “She just said she wanted to do it and went right
ahead.” ​This is the first in what organizers hope will become an
annual tradition. With the help of the community, Walker said there
is no doubt the tradition will carry on. ​Walker and Sullivan would
like to thank: Vinny’s restaurant for their generous donation of
food, Teen Empowerment for youth volunteers Michael Curtis of the
Uniun for donated t-shirts and the East Somerville school staff for
volunteering and offering the space. They would also like to thank:
Ward 1 Alderman Matthew McLaughlin, Ward 1 School Committee member
Stephen Roix, Somerville Ornamental Iron Works, Fasika Restaurant,
East End Grill, and the many community volunteers and donors who
made the event successful.