South Boston Today July 15 2021 by SouthBostonTodayOnline

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July 15, 2021: Vol.9 Issue 27

SERVING SOUTH BOSTONIANS AROUND THE GLOBE

Does South Boston REALLY Need A Marijuana Superstore?

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ith 3 board members having opposed a motion to reconsider the application at a future date, including the chairperson Christine Araujo, on Tuesday, July 13, the Zoning Board of Appeal has again denied the Holland Brand project for the industrial lot at 115 K St./550 E. 1st St. in South Boston. It had been noted, historically, that the ZBA in general doesn’t usually say no — and that extends to pot shops, as it had granted 19 of 22 that the ZBA

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July 15, 2021

EDITORIAL Is Clamping Down On Loud Parties Producing Results? It Appears So!

s most residents know, there is an ongoing controversy regarding the loud and rowdy after hour’s party atmosphere that has been a source of hundreds of complaints by neighbors. But the complaints and actions taken by local people, in cooperation with police and elected officials seems to be having an effect. South Boston has become much quieter during the late night/early morning hours of the weekends. The party houses, also

known as ‘problem properties’ in many cases have been visited by police and the landlords have been contacted and strongly urged to take steps to keep disruptive renters under control or fines and other penalties could be forthcoming. As we stated, it all seems to be working and while there are still problems, the number has been reduced. In addition to threats of fines and other penalties, it has been reported that other deterrents being

used to convince landlords to take responsibility for keeping their properties under control are now being applied as well. These are coming in the form of denials being issued by the City of Boston’s Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) to property owners who have requested permission to construct new roof decks on the structures they own, if they have been the target of ongoing neighborhood complaints because of loud parties. This too, could lead to having a chilling

effect on those landlords, who may have been reluctant to take action or just didn’t care. Having parties and gatherings at one’s place of residence is not illegal, and people have the right to have guest over for a good time. Legal, that is, if it’s all kept under control, during the designated hours and doesn’t turn into a screaming, music blaring horror show where no one within eight surrounding blocks, young and old alike can get any sleep

until sometimes 3 -4 am and often beyond. When it gets to that stage, it becomes a blatant case of disturbing the peace. And to be clear, it’s not just long time/lifelong residents calling 911 with complaints. Many new arrivals are also complaining, saying they have had enough. It’s been stated in this newspaper several times before and we’ll say it again today: Everyone would get along so much better by showing consideration and respect for one another.

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July 15, 2021

Information Center The

Video Cameras In The Classrooms? Yes!

SOUTH BOSTON TODAY John Ciccone

t’s often been said that when ‘progressives’ fly into a rage and go into their constant meltdown mode, it usually means something good is happening in America. The latest perceived outrage by the perpetually ‘triggered’ is the groundswell of parents of public-school children that is organizing and demanding that video cameras be put into the nation’s grade school classrooms. And the liberals are having a fit. Personally, like most of you, I’m not someone who is a fan of video surveillance covering our every move when we’re out in public. This isn’t Communist Cuba. If we are to be observed by cameras, there needs to be a good reason for it. At airports, banks, military bases and other areas where security is needed to protect the public safety, justification can be made for it. Throngs of angry parents of every race are now demanding that the classrooms where their children are being taught should be added to the list, as well. And it’s what’s being taught in those classrooms that’s causing this demand. Americans are now familiar with Critical Race Theory or CRT. It has been exposed for the world to see with its racist, anti-American and divisive content and parents say it’s being used to indoctrinate young students. The number of states banning CRT continues to grow as the demand for cameras in the classrooms is becoming a mass movement. Worried parents have a right to see firsthand exactly what their children are being taught or in many cases, fed. CRT separates children by race, telling white kids they are inherently racist and that they, along with their parents are oppressors. In a different classroom, it tries to convince minority students that they are oppressed by whites, and it’s all being sanctioned by the racist country they live in. This, among other racist and divisive teach-

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ing, is what has parents so upset. But the major teachers’ unions, Democrat party leaders, the news media and the Biden Administration are all for it. And they are fighting tooth and nail to prevent parents from having a say in it and especially want cameras kept OUT of the classrooms. It seems that if CRT were so good and even harmless, they would want parents to observe in an effort to ease their fears. The leaders of these ‘education’ unions, not most of the rank and file, are under the mistaken impression that these children belong to them and not the parents. As one observer opined, it’s a ‘get them while they’re young’ tactic that has been used by Communist regimes throughout history. Many teachers have expressed opposition to CRT and have no problem with cameras in their classrooms. It might even have the effect of having the kids behave themselves, if they know Mom and Dad might be watching. But the union leaders are adamant and are even urging their members to ignore the law in the states where CRT has been banned and teach it anyway. Memo to parents: These are your kids, not the government’s or the teacher unions. You have every right to know exactly what they are being taught when at school. If ever there was an issue for you to get actively involved in – this is it. It was stated above that the news media is in favor of CRT and against cameras in classrooms. It’s no surprise at all. It’s also no surprise that recent surveys are showing that nearly 60 percent of Americans consider the news media to be the ‘enemy of the people’ and the number continues to climb. ‘News’ outlets like CNN and MSNBC have ratings so low, they are almost falling through the floor. They, along with the major news networks, the New York Times, the Washington Post etc, have credibility problems so severe

that most people now say they can’t trust anything they see on the news any longer. Having a free press is a good thing, but if they are corrupt, if they lie and slant the news and if everything they do and say is motivated by their personal agendas, what good are they? And finally for this week, Americans everywhere are talking about the big spike in violent crime taking place in many cities. Nancy Pelosi, Biden, the media and the rest of the usual suspects use their old tactics of shifting the blame and say it’s the result of everything but the real cause. They blame racism, Donald Trump, the NRA and

the old standby for all the world’s ailments – Global Warming. In reality, it’s being caused by the anti-police rhetoric and efforts to defund law enforcement and tie the hands of cops. When the bad guys know they can get away with causing mayhem, they do. But this time the libs have misjudged the ability of the American public to see through their BS. They try to say it’s been the Republicans who have been trying to defund and hamstring law enforcement when everyone; even Democrat voters know well which side has been behind it. The tactic has failed – big time. Virtually no one is falling for it.

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July 15, 2021

Call to the Bullpen Imagine one of those oft-used scenes where a horde of freshmen enter school for the first time and seniors can be seen in the background yelling “freshmen, freshmen, freshmen.” That’s what comes to mind as first-year representatives will soon be headed to temporary office spaces for the first time this session. House leadership announced plans Monday to use a hearing room in the State House for new-member workplaces, a move that has been traditionally used in past sessions to help acquaint members with legislative processes, lawmaking, and new colleagues and permanent office assignment are being decided. But because of the pandemic, the class of 2021 started their tenures remotely, relying on virtual meetings to meet colleagues and undergo training. Speaker Pro Tempore Kate Hogan emailed representatives Monday advising them of the available office space in Hearing Room B-1, adding the State House remains closed to the public and staff members other than those in “core offices.” It harks back to when colleges and universi-

ties pledged to 2020 graduates that they could attend next year’s graduation ceremonies after theirs’ were canceled because of the pandemic. The building has been closed for 484 days and the opening of the communal office, affectionately dubbed the “bullpen,” represents one of the first moves toward pre-pandemic norms in the building. “We continue to encourage remote work, so the office space will be limited to members only,” the email said. “We will begin staffing the bullpen starting next week with people that will be able to answer your technical questions as you transition into the new working environment.” Those who make their way to Beacon Hill will have all the necessities: printers, scanners, phones, and office and cleaning supplies, according to the email. Members in the class of 2021 will also be the first group to receive new laptops that will be fully functional both within hearing room B-1 and for remote work, the email said. “Your tenure in the House of Representatives began during one of the most trying times in our commonwealth’s history,”

Hogan wrote in the email. “You have shown fortitude and dedication in serving your constituents, and I would personally like to thank you for your patience as we’ve worked to prepare members’ office spaces throughout public health precautions and ongoing physical updates to the State House.” Transcript Ransom? That’s what activists call it when a college withholds a student’s academic transcript if they have any unpaid debt from their current or most recent term. Sen. Harriette Chandler and Rep. David LeBoeuf, a pair of Worcester Democrats, plan to call on their colleagues Tuesday to step in and pass a bill banning the practice, which they describe as common. Why? The lawmakers say institutions in some cases are withholding all credits, even those that have been paid for, denying students the ability to transfer to more affordable schools or get jobs. The problem, they say, is disproportionately affecting low-income students. But it could be solved starting with advancement of a

bill through the Higher Education Committee that guarantees students access to their transcripts. Major MassGOP donors say they have no confidence in leadership It keeps getting worse for MassGOP. Embroiled in controversy for months, 16 major donors say they won’t donate to the party until the state committee changes leadership, reports Boston Herald’s Erin Tiernan. Jim Lyons must be having a ball. What happens if the party does change leadership? Those donors pledged $1 million in support if they do. And while the letter doesn’t call out Lyons by name, it does list scandals that have plagued the party in recent weeks. More from Tiernan: “Lyons called the letter ‘unfortunate and misguided’ in an interview with the Herald, saying he would be ‘happy to sit down with anyone’ who signed the letter.” The clock’s ticking, kinda There’s a lot going on as the Legislature looks toward its annual summer recess: expanded early voting-by-mail, the road and bridge repair funding bill, and the fate of the MBTA’s governing body. State House News Service’s Chris Lisinski and Sam Doran report that the House and Senate held relatively quick sessions Monday with plans to come back on Wednesday and Thursday, respectively.

Pot Shop continued from front page

to procedural violations of the open meeting law rules, the lack of a roll call vote and the fact that the Mayor’s office had not testified. On substantive issues Ross referenced that the application met the standards for conditional use and its location in the Summer Street and First Street sub-district where zoning allows for these type uses. His client, Geoffrey Caraboolad, had commissioned a vehicular study related to congestion and related hazards that pointed to the 30 on-site parking spots available to customers and an internal loading dock out of sight to the area. Ross had also referenced existing data related to crime statistics that noted no significant increase in crime related to cannabis dispensary sites city-wide. His final point was

that every section of the City except South Boston has at least one dispensary and some have several. Developer Geoffrey Caraboolad had also retained the services of Colette Phillips for public relations and the general contractor for the project had been slated to be Greg Janey, a longtime Boston builder who is the cousin of Acting Mayor Kim Janey, but that may have changed. In a letter to the editor of South Boston Today, Maria Melone said, “We are fighting to protect our neighborhood - a high-volume, destination-retail megamarket, larger than any other retail establishment in South Boston, will forever degrade the community.” The rescheduling of the hearing held this past Tuesday came as a

surprise to residents. An Inspectional Services Department spokeswoman said at the time that the rescheduling was sought and allowed because “technical difficulties” that stopped some virtual members from hearing the case May 18, when the Zoning Board of Appeals voted it down, 4-1. At the time, opponents of the pot project were blunt in their assessments of what was going on with the process. Officials and residents at the May hearing fumed about how busy the shop would make the area. The ZBA took the unusual step of voting this shop down, with only one member speaking up in favor of it. Apparently, the neighborhood opposition was effective. Kudos to the First Street organizers and allies.

Window Into The State House

Window Into The State House provides our readers a synopsis of important issues of interest, past and current, that are being proposed, debated or acted upon by the Massachusetts Legislature. Many issues that are not related to local city government services are acted upon and have a direct impact on daily life. They are tax policy, transportation infrastructure, judicial appointments, social services and health, as well as higher education. We will excerpt reports from the gavel-to-gavel coverage of House and Senate sessions by news sources focused on this important aspect of our lives. These sources include a look ahead at the coming week in state government and summaries and analyses of the past week, re-caps of a range of state government activity, as well as links to other news.

has ruled on, according to the city. The enterprise will not be able to reapply for one year. The opposition to the siting of this marijuana superstore dispensary was consistent with earlier testimony. City Councilor Ed Flynn, who represents the area, had told the Zoning Board of Appeals during a virtual hearing in May that he had traffic and quality-of-life concerns, and representatives for City Councilors Michael Flaherty and Annissa Essaibi-George both backed Flynn in opposing the shop. State Rep. David Biele sent a letter of opposition and supported the local City delegation. Former City Councilor Mike Ross, is representing the project as its attorney. Ross was heard alluding

July 15, 2021

SOUTHBOSTONTODAY • www.southbostontoday.com

SENATOR COLLINS, MA LEGISLATURE PASS FY22 STATE BUDGET

ecently, State Senator Nick Collins joined his colleagues in the Mas-

sachusetts State Legislature in unanimously passing a $48.07 billion budget for Fiscal Year 2022 (FY22). This budget was a compromise between the Massachusetts House of Representatives’ and the Massachusetts State Senate’s respective budgets. This budget maintains fiscal responsibility, does not cut services, and makes targeted investments to address emerging needs, safeguard the health and wellness of the most vulnerable populations and ensure residents will benefit equitably as the state recovers from the impacts

of the COVID-19 pandemic. The FY22 budget notably does not make a withdrawal and instead transfers funds into the Stabilization Fund, projecting an estimated balance of approximately $5.8 billion for this crucial ‘rainy day’ fund at the end of the fiscal year. Specifically, within the First Suffolk district Senator Collins championed amendments directly supporting over 35 organizations and securing over $17 million. “My office was focused on delivering for every community in the First Suffolk District, prioritiz-

ing economic recovery, local nonprofits and small business support, education, healthcare, environmental justice, and public health & safety.” said Senator Collins. “I was proud to work together with my colleagues and successfully compromise the House and the Senate respective budgets, and I look forward to continue to work together to recover and rebuild our neighborhoods, our city, and the Commonwealth.” Having been passed by the House and Senate, the legislation now goes to Governor Baker for his signature.

SENATOR COLLINS CHAMPIONS BENEFITS FOR ESSENTIAL WORKERS

ssential workers who were required to work in-person during the COVID-19 pandemic will get special benefits, including a three-year retirement credit, under a proposal by State Senator Nick Collins that will be heard this month by the Legislature’s

Joint Committee on Public Service. Senator Collins is the lead sponsor of S.1669, An Act Relative to providing a COVID-19 retirement credit to public essential workers, which will be heard by the committee July 21. “Essential workers have put their lives and bodies on the line to guide

the Commonwealth through the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Senator Nick Collins. “This retirement credit would offer a meaningful compensation for the dedicated public service of these women and men.” The bill is designed to apply to all public workers in the Commonwealth

who were designated essential and required to work in person throughout the pandemic. The Joint Committee on Public Service will hold a virtual hearing on the bill on Wednesday, July 21, 2021. The Committee will accept written testimony through Wednesday, July 28 at 5:00 p.m.

Councilors Flynn & Flaherty Urge Southie Neighbors: Apply for CPA Funds

ast week, City Councilor Ed Flynn and City Councilor AtLarge Michael Flaherty partnered with the Office of Community Preservation to host an information session for District 2 residents on the Community Preservation Act (CPA). The meeting aimed at providing information and resources for South Boston residents, nonprofits, community and youth sports organizations to apply for CPA funding. Topics included the funding application process, timeline, eligibility and other pertinent information. The Councilors also emphasized that with 16 applications submitted over 4 rounds, yet seven projects subsequently approved, it’s critical for community organizations and neighbors to apply so that we do not lose out on available funding to help improve and preserve our neighborhood. With nearly half of South Boston applications awarded funding, it’s also crucial for those who may have been denied in the

past to re-apply and continue to stay engaged with the CPA team. The CPA provides funding for initiatives related to affordable housing, historic preservation, open space, and outdoor recreation facilities. From 2018 to 2021, there were 16 applications from South Boston projects with the following seven approved for CPA funding: Martin’s Park - $500,000 -St. Augustine Historic Chapel $499,075 -Barnard Place Park - $150,000 -Congress St Fire Museum - $150,000 -Harry McDonough Sailing Center $78,783 -Castle Island Interpretive Signs - $75,000 -Kearsarge Anchor - $75,000 To be considered for CPA’s 2022 funding round, interested applicants need to please contact the Community Preservation team regarding eligibility at 617-635-0545 and thadine.brown@boston.gov before filling out the CPA’s rolling eligibility form by Friday, September 3,

2021 at 5pm. The form can be accessed through the Office of Community Preservation’s website at www.boston.gov/cpa. If CPA staff reviews the project and determines that it can be funded under CPA requirements, the applicant will be invited to complete an application for CPA grants. An outline of the application steps can be found here: https://www.boston.gov/ community-preservation/how-apply-community-preservation-funds. For more information, including to request translation or interpretation services, please contact thadine. brown@boston.gov. “With the new round of CPA funding available and the deadline on September 3rd, it’s criti-

cal that our neighbors, nonprofits, and youth sports groups have the resources to take full advantage of this opportunity to improve and preserve South Boston,” said Councilor Flynn. “I’m calling on my neighbors to contact CPA and apply for this funding so that our community has the chance to receive funding for initiatives on affordable housing, historic preservation, open space, and outdoor recreation.” “When I worked to get the CPA adopted in Boston, it was because I knew the transformative effects the funds from the program would have across the city,” said Councilor Flaherty. “With over $92M authorized for projects across the city already, we are seeing those changes. I want to make sure residents in South Boston have every opportunity to harness the impact of these funds, and I encourage folks to get their applications in.” For more information, please contact Councilor Flynn’s office at 617635-3203 and ed.flynn@boston.gov.

SOUTHBOSTONTODAY • www.southbostontoday.com

July 15, 2021

Stop & Shop Kicks Off Patriotic Campaign

top & Shop announced the start of its annual “Support Our Service Men and Women” fundraising campaign that benefits the United Service Organizations (USO). Throughout July, customers can donate $1, $3 or $5 when at checkout, in-store or online, or round up their total to the nearest dollar at self-checkout. 100% of all donations will benefit the USO mission to support its mobile and center operations, food and family programming, transition services and much more. Since the campaign’s inception more than seven years ago, Stop & Shop has helped raise more than $5 million for military service members. “Our customers and associates throughout Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island, New York and New Jersey look forward to this fundraising effort each year since it helps the USO in providing an immediate and direct impact on the men and women who serve and protect our nation as well as their families,” said Stacy Wiggins, Stop & Shop’s Vice President of E-Commerce Operations and a veteran of

the United States Army. A global, non-profit organization, the USO’s mission is to strengthen service members by keeping them connected to family, home and country, throughout their service to the nation. The funds raised by the Stop & Shop campaign will support this important mission, which is delivered through various programs including: • The USO Care Package Program, which provides service members with two different types of care packages – a Snack Pack and a Toiletry Pack. The Snack Pack is assembled with a mixture of healthy treats and drink mixes, while the Toiletry Pack comes equipped with a wide range of travelsized hygiene products. Over 200,000 care packages were delivered in 2020. • The Mobile USOs act as USO centers on wheels and provide field support to service members. These state-of-the-art mobile vehicles travel to events and military exercises to serve as places of respite and provide service members snacks, refreshments and occasionally homecooked meals. This fleet of vehicles also delivers

USO services to areas without brickand-mortar centers and are used to support National Guard deployments for natural disasters and to help communities in times of crisis. • The USO Pathfinder® Transition Program helps service members and their families navigate transition from military service to thriving veteran status, no matter where they are located around the world. The program also supports military spouses at any point in their military journey as they transition from one installation to the next. Through individualized Action Plans and a network of partners and resources, the program focuses on employment, education, financial wellness, mentoring and increased access to relevant veteran resources in their communities when separation from service occurs. “Every year, the generosity of Stop & Shop associates and customers grows and helps to make a real difference in the USO’s ability to strengthen and connect service members and their families,” said Chad Hartman, Vice President, Development and

Corporate Alliances, “We are so grateful for this partnership and annual campaign that helps to unify military supporters to give more than thanks to those who serve us all.” To learn more about Stop & Shop’s support for the USO and other community organizations, visit https://stopandshop.com/pages/our-purpose. About Stop & Shop A neighborhood grocer for more than 100 years, Stop & Shop offers a wide assortment with a focus on fresh, healthy options at a great value. Stop & Shop’s GO Rewards loyalty program delivers personalized offers and allows customers to earn points that can be redeemed for gas or groceries every time they shop. About the USO The USO strengthens America’s military service members by keeping them connected to family, home and country, throughout their service to the nation. At hundreds of locations worldwide, we are united in our commitment to connect our service members and their families through countless acts of caring, comfort and support.

Compass on the Bay Celebrates National CNA Week

ompass on the Bay found a special way to give back to their associates for National Certified Nursing Assistants (CNA) Week with a waffle bar and other food spreads, along with personalized giveaways. The Memory Support Assisted Living Community located in South Boston used the occasion as an opportunity to show their appreciation to their dedicated group of Resident Care Associates, and residents living there created a video thanking the CNAs for their hard work and selfless care. “Our wellness team members are some of the most dedicated, passionate individuals I have ever worked with,” says Jenna Petrenko Executive Director. “We are trying to find as many ways as possible to recognize the hours and sacrifices they are putting in to care for residents and keep them safe.” In addition to regular apprecia-

tion events, Compass on the Bay also offers professional development opportunities and educational training for associates. “I’ve been working at Compass on the Bay for 35 years, and I continue to feel so appreciated!” said Josephine Powell, Resident Care Associate. Compass on the Bay is offering several opportunities to join their close-knit team. Learn more and apply online at www.CompassOnTheBay.com/Careers.

Jenna Petrenko, Cheryl Caruth and Jephanie Lopes

From left to right: Josephine Powell, Raen Smith, Jenna Petrenko, Annette Lee and Lucilda Redway celebrate CNA Week at Compass on the Bay

July 15, 2021

REP. BIELE FILES BILL TO CREATE EMPLMENT FOR PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES

his week, State Representative David Biele testified in support of legislation to increase employment opportunities for persons with disabilities. Filed by Rep. Biele, the bill (H.3107 An Act relative to the employment of persons with disabilities on state contracts) would create hiring benchmarks for individuals with

SOUTHBOSTONTODAY • www.southbostontoday.com

disabilities on state contracts, including but not limited to janitorial and custodial services, landscaping services, mailroom services, food services, fleet management, manufacturing, trash removal, document destruction, electronic scanning of documents, and facility management services. Hiring requirements would be phased in over five years. In terms of background, individuals with disabilities face an extremely high unemployment rate across the country. In Massachusetts, the population of individuals with disabilities is approximately 389,450 and 64% are unemployed. The legislation proposes to address that high unemployment rate by including hiring benchmarks on state contracts and is modeled on the federal AbilityOne program, one of the largest sources of employment in the United States

for persons with disabilities. Annually, the AbilityOne program employs approximately 45,000 individuals with disabilities, including 3,000 veterans. In the Commonwealth, the AbilityOne program employs individuals with disabilities in federal buildings, such as the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, in a wide range of occupations, including custodial services, mailroom services, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning services, and other building maintenance functions. “As we continue to discuss economic development, job creation, and recovery from the pandemic, we have an opportunity to create an inclusive economy by closing the gap in unemployment for persons with disabilities, and ensure that everyone has the opportunity to work with dignity and succeed in the

workplace,” said Rep. Biele. The legislation was heard by the Joint Committee on State Administration and Regulatory Oversight at a public hearing earlier this week and is now under review by the Joint Committee.

Dorchester St outside Casper’s Funeral Home, Old Colony Ave across from Ironworkers Local 7, Preble St, East First St across from My Diner, East Broadway across from the South Boston Municipal Court), and loading zones on Broadway to deter double parking from delivery trucks. “Pedestrian safety is a Public Health Emergency and we, as a city, must fully embrace infrastructure improvements to our high traffic roads; including all way stop signs, speed bumps, raised crosswalks, curb extensions, pedestrian islands and rapid

flash beacons. We cannot prioritize commuter trips over the safety of our seniors and persons with disabilities, families, children and neighbors,” said Councilor Flynn. “Thank you to my neighbors, the South Boston electeds, Boston Transportation Department, and Public Works Department. Let’s continue to work together on Vision Zero - no serious or fatal crashes in Boston.” For more information, please contact Councilor Flynn’s office at 617-635-3203 and Ed.Flynn@ Boston.gov.

Councilor Flynn Pedestrian Safety Update: All Way Stop on First Street

oston City Councilor Ed Flynn has long set pedestrian and traffic safety as his top priority, and has been working with neighbors, his fellow South Boston elected officials and the Boston Transportation Department to identify key areas and hotspot locations that need infrastructure improvements. Councilor Flynn continues to advocate that speeding vehicles are a Public Health Emergency that requires a combination of infrastructure improvements, slower speed limits in our residential neighborhoods, and strict enforcement. There is much work to be done for the city’s infrastructure to catch up and keep pace with the development and population growth of the last 20 years, but there are signs of positive steps now being taken to address this public safety issue. One of the most notoriously dangerous intersections in South Boston has been at East First St, Pappas Way & West First St. Through the advocacy of neighbors in the area, Councilor

Flynn and the South Boston elected officials, the City of Boston Transportation Department (BTD) and Public Works Departments have recently installed an all-way stop sign at this intersection, which will help bring traffic calming and improve pedestrian safety. This all-way stop on First St & Pappas Way follows a number of traffic-calming infrastructure improvements that have taken place the last several years due to collaboration of neighbors, the South Boston elected officials and BTD. These include a pedestrian island and stop signs located in the middle of the road at East Broadway & Farragut Road, blinking LED pedestrian crossing signs at several locations (outside Stop & Shop and Walgreen’s on East Broadway, F St & West Broadway outside the South Boston Community Health Center and Loco, St. Peter Academy & Senior Housing on West 4th St), speed feedback signs positioned on high traffic roads (L St, Farragut Road,

SOUTHBOSTONTODAY • www.southbostontoday.com

The

Wine Guy

Summer BBQ Reds

t seems as though we really haven’t talked about reds that are good for the BBQ in quite a while. Oh yeah, that’s because we’ve had about 250 inches of rain in June and July and the Memorial Day plants have covered the patio and the grill. However, if you ever do get out there again, try one or all of the following and for Godsakes, don’t forget to put on your wetsuit! They say that the best Zins are grown in Sonoma County and the

2018 Seghesio Zinfandel, Sonoma, California, ($19.99), lends a lot of weight to that, being a Wine Spectator 90-point wine. As this column has said in the past, it’s hard to find 90-point wines, real 90-point wines, for $20.00 or less. Wine.com calls this one, “Juicy and generous in blackberry and vanilla, it is a broadly appealing style, utilizing both American and French oak. Generous, with fresh fruit, accented by cherry jam, dried sage and white pepper flavors, lingering on a sleek finish.” The medium body and lingering finish bring out the best in grilled meats, Italian sausages and grilled Ribs. Brachetto is a red Italian wine grape variety grown predominantly in the Piedmont region of northwest Italy and it’s a frizatta red, or naturally sparkling. You should have it chilled and if it’s too sweet for your taste, cut it with Club Soda. One of the most popular Brachetto wines is Banfi Rosa Regale Brachetto, 2019, Piedmont, Italy, ($20.99). The Mariani family has been importing wines into the U.S. since 1919 and this wine’s volume has grown dramatically

over the last 20 years or so. You’ll notice this wine’s aromatic quality, with hints of raspberries, strawberries and rose petals. Fresh raspberries, with crisp acidity, enticing the palate with an initial softness, graduating to a clean and dry finish. Perfect for any occasion, it pairs well with seafood, cheeses, spicy fare and chocolate. A Summer favorite in France is Gamay Beaujolais. A very old grape variety, Gamay takes its name from a hamlet near Saint-

July 15, 2021

Aubin on the Côte de Beaune. Staint; Aubin also makes some of the best value White Burgundies in the region. It is nowadays the varietal of choice for the great red wines of the Mâconnais. It’s best served chilled, and it goes with everything grilled, from burgers to BBQ, as well as Summer salads. Over the last 6 years or so, Austrian wines have become more and more available in the U.S. market. Anita and Hans Nittnaus, a married winemaking team, say it’s all about the terroir and their Nittnaus Zweigelt, Blauer, 2017, ($17.99) makes a strong case for that. It’s a medium-bodied red with cherries and spice on the nose and it can be slightly chilled or served at room temperature. I think you’re going to see more from this brand and region over the next few years; enjoy this on with a wide array of grilled foods, especially sausages, Hanger Steak with Béarnaise sauce or Steak and Cheese subs with diced Bella mushrooms. Talk To The Wine Guy at jdris8888@gmail.com

PARKARTS NEIGHBORHOOD CONCERTS BEGIN JULY 21 Live music offerings return in 2021 with a series of summer evening concerts

he Boston Parks and Recreation Department’s 2021 ParkARTS Citywide Neighborhood Concert Series offers musical entertainment in local parks from July 21 through August 12, as well as a series of summer evening concerts on the patios at the City of Boston’s two golf course clubhouses from July 21 through September 1. The ParkARTS outdoor neighborhood summer concerts and golf course concerts are made possible by presenting sponsor Bank of America. Concerts at William J. Devine clubhouse are offered with support from the Emerald Necklace Conservancy, reflecting Franklin Park’s location within Boston’s historic Emerald Necklace system of parks. The ParkARTS Citywide Neigh-

borhood Concert Series begins on Wednesday, July 21, with The Woo Factor at Almont Park, 40 Almont Street, Mattapan, and continues Thursday, July 22 with Northeast Groove at Billings Field, 369 LaGrange Street, West Roxbury; Wednesday, July 28 with the Soul City Band at Dorchester Park, 2180 Dorchester Avenue, Dorchester; and Thursday, July 29 with Tom Petty tribute band The Rebels at Medal of Honor Park, 775 East First Street, South Boston. The August schedule kicks off with Veronica Robles on Wednesday, August 4, at LoPresti Park, 33 Sumner Street, East Boston; Thursday, August 5, with the Soul City Band at Smith Playground, 235 Western Avenue, Allston; and Wednesday, August 11, with Jah

Spirit Reggae at Horatio Harris Park, 58 Beech Glen Street, Roxbury. The series ends on Thursday, August 12, with Joaquin Santos at Blackstone Square, 1530 Washington Street, South End. Shows in neighborhood parks begin at 7 p.m. ParkARTS golf course performances are offered on alternating Wednesdays on the clubhouse patios of the William J. Devine Golf Course (1 Circuit Dr, Dorchester) and George Wright Golf Course (420 West St, Hyde Park) throughout July and August and into September: the Jamaica Plain Saxophone Quartet will perform on July 21 at Franklin Park; It’s a J Thing on Wednesday, July 28 at George Wright; Shane Wood Jazz Trio on August 4 at Franklin Park; Mike Tarara on August

11 at George Wright; Andres Guerra on August 18 at Franklin Park; Woundikin on August 25 at George Wright; and wrapping up with The Pat Gaulin Trio on September 1 at Franklin Park. All golf course performances begin at 6:00 pm. All ParkARTS performances are free of charge. For more information, please call (617) 635-4505 or visit Boston.gov/ParkARTS. Stay up to date with news, events, and design and construction work in Boston parks by signing up for our email list at bit.ly/Get-ParksEmails and follow our social channels @bostonparksdept on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram..

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July 15, 2021

Recent South Boston Real Estate Sales Property/Type

493 East Third St UNIT 2 Condo 29 Ward St UNIT 302 Condo 9 West Broadway UNIT 215 Condo 29 Ward St UNIT 202 Condo 64 O Street UNIT C Condo 761 East Sixth St UNIT 9 Condo 103 Old Harbor St UNIT 2 Condo 29 Ward St UNIT 102 Condo 1 Twomey Ct UNIT 40 Condo 420 West Broadway UNIT 202 Condo 218 West Seventh St UNIT 2 Condo 320 West Second St Unit 401 Condo 298 Bolton St UNIT 3 Condo 41 Gates St UNIT 2 Condo 605 East Fifth St UNIT 1 Condo 140-142 West Seventh St UNIT 1 Condo 177 West Sixth St UNIT 5 Condo 528 East Third St UNIT 1 Condo 19 Knowlton St UNIT 4 Condo 298 East Eighth St UNIT 3 Condo

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CITATION ON PETITION FOR FORMAL ADJUDICATION Docket No. SU17P0940EA Commonwealth Of Massachusetts The Trial Court Probate and Family Court Estate of: Arthur J Capuzzo Date of Death: 02/28/2012 Suffolk Probate and Family Court 24 New Chardon Street Boston, MA 02114 (617) 788-8300 To all interested persons: A Petition for Formal Probate of Will with Appointment of Personal Representative has been filed by Maryann Leyva of Weymouth MA requesting that the Court enter a formal Decree and Order and for such other relief as requested in the Petition. IMPORTANT NOTICE You have the right to obtain a copy of the Petition from the Petitioner or at the Court. You have a right to object to this proceeding. To do so, you or your attorney must file a written appearance and objection at this Court before: 10:00 a.m. on the return day of 07/30/2021. This is NOT a hearing date, but a deadline by which you must file a written appearance and objection if you object to this proceeding. If you fail to file a timely written appearance and objection followed by an affidavit of objections within thirty (30) days of the return day, action may be taken without further notice to you. UNSUPERVISED ADMINISTRATION UNDER THE MASSACHUSETTS UNIFORM PROBATE CODE (MUPC) A Personal Representative appointed under the MUPC in an unsupervised administration is not required to file an inventory or annual accounts with the Court. Persons interested in the estate are entitled to notice regarding the administration directly from the Personal Representative and may petition the Court in any matter relating to the estate, including distribution of assets and expenses of administration. WITNESS, Hon. Brian J. Dunn, First Justice of this Court. June 18, 2021 Felix D. Arroyo, Register of Probate Published July 15, 2021

CITATION ON PETITION FOR FORMAL ADJUDICATION Docket No. SU21P0664EA Commonwealth Of Massachusetts The Trial Court Probate and Family Court Estate of: Carole Anne Adams Also known as: Carole Adams Carole A. Adams Date of Death: 12/27/2020 Suffolk Probate and Family Court 24 New Chardon Street Boston, MA 02114 (617) 788-8300 To all interested persons: A Petition for Formal Adjudication of Intestacy and Appointment of Personal Representative has been filed by Donna M. Flaherty of Boston MA requesting that the Court enter a formal Decree and Order and for such other relief as requested in the Petition. The Petitioner requests that: Donna M. Flaherty of Boston MA be appointed as Personal Representative(s) of said estate to serve Without Surety on the bond in unsupervised administration IMPORTANT NOTICE You have the right to obtain a copy of the Petition from the Petitioner or at the Court. You have a right to object to this proceeding. To do so, you or your attorney must file a written appearance and objection at this Court before: 10:00 a.m. on the return day of 08/12/2021. This is NOT a hearing date, but a deadline by which you must file a written appearance and objection if you object to this proceeding. If you fail to file a timely written appearance and objection followed by an affidavit of objections within thirty (30) days of the return day, action may be taken without further notice to you. UNSUPERVISED ADMINISTRATION UNDER THE MASSACHUSETTS UNIFORM PROBATE CODE (MUPC) A Personal Representative appointed under the MUPC in an unsupervised administration is not required to file an inventory or annual accounts with the Court. Persons interested in the estate are entitled to notice regarding the administration directly from the Personal Representative and may petition the Court in any matter relating to the estate, including distribution of assets and expenses of administration. WITNESS, Hon. Brian J. Dunn, First Justice of this Court. July 01, 2021 Felix D. Arroyo, Register of Probate Published July 15, 2021

SOUTHBOSTONTODAY • www.southbostontoday.com

July 15, 2021

South Boston Sr Babe Ruth Remains Undefeated

ooking to improve on their 2-0 start, the South Boston Sr Babe Ruth team took the field at Joe Moakley Park for their home opener against Dorchester on June 23rd. A much-improved Dorchester team took a quick 1-0 lead in the top of the first inning after a sacrifice fly scored a run. Southie starting pitching Bobby Delaney (5 IP 7 K’s) then struck out the next two batters to get out of a second and third jam to limit any further damage. Delaney then helped his own cause in the bottom of the second inning as he launched his first home of the season with a bullet shot over the left field fence to tie the game at 1. Southie added another run in the inning when Jack Feeney singled to bring home Declan Callahan to give Southie a short lived 2-1 lead. Dorchester tied things up in the top of the third inning but in the bottom of the inning Southie took advantage of several walks and wild pitches by the Dorchester starter to take a 5-2 lead. The fourth inning saw more fireworks as Dorchester was able to push across two runs before surrendering two runs to the home team in the bottom half when a James

Buzzell double drove home Aidan Young and Michael Brooks to make It a 7-4 advantage for South Boston. A relentless Dorchester attack brought the game back to a one run game but both teams would then trade runs in the 6th inning to give Southie a 8-7 victory. Delaney picked up his second win of the year while Evan Markos picked up the save with one inning of work. Squantum, a new entry to the South Shore League, visited Moakley Park on Monday evening June 28th. South Boston starting pitcher Joe Hamilton got a tough assignment in his first start of the season as he battled through mid 90’s temperatures and a shaky defense behind him that allowed the Quincy boys to jump out to a 4-0 lead in the first inning. The score would stay that way until the 3rd inning when Squantum would strike for another run before Southie finally got on the board to make It 5-1 after 3. Just as things were starting to look up for the locals, the Squantum first baseman launched his second 3 run home run of the game to deep right center to give the visitors a commanding 8-1 lead. In the bottom of the 4th inning, Southie showed signs of life when Kevin Culley doubled to

bring home Logan Crowley. Culley was then able to score on a wild pitch to cut the Squantum lead to 8-3. Lydon McGarrell led off the bottom of a fifth with a walk and was a terror on the base paths as the Squantum starting pitcher, who had been cruising to this point, began to lose his focus and unravel. McGarrell would score on a Michael Brooks single to make It a four run game and Southie was off to the races. Kevin Culley then came to the plate and singled home Brooks followed by a Bobby Delaney single that scored Logan Crowley to make it 8-6 Squantum. Jack Feeney then drove a single to right field that scored Culley and a bad relay throw

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also allowed Delaney to come all the way around and to the amazement of all in attendance Southie had erased a 7 run deficit to tie the game 8-8. Logan Crowley came in to make his first appearance on the mound of the season and worked a scoreless 6th inning to give Southie a chance for a walk off win in what would be the final inning. Unfortunately, after putting 2 men on base to start the bottom of the 6th, Squantum was able to turn a well executed 3-6 double play. With the game winning run on 3rd base, a frozen rope off the bat of cleanup hitter Kevin Culley went directly to the Squantum left fielder who made the catch to preserve the 8-8 tie.

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July 15, 2021

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Danny Danny reacted to Dustin Poirier’s win over Conor McGregor at UFC 264:

t confuses me when people say Conor McGregor deserves a fourth fight with Dustin Poirier, following Poirier’s TKO win over McGregor at UFC 264 on Saturday night. When one of those people is UFC President Dana White, it confuses me even more. During Saturday night’s postfight press conference, White said, “It’s not the way you want to see fights end, so, Dustin Poirier will fight for the title, and when Conor’s healed and ready to go, you do the rematch I guess, I don’t know.” After a follow-up question, White continued, “Listen, the fight didn’t get finished. You can’t have a fight finish that way. So, we’ll see how this whole thing plays out. Who knows how long Conor’s out. Poirier will do his thing until Conor’s ready.” McGregor reportedly had successful surgery on his broken left leg, Sunday morning. The injury at the end of Round 1 on Saturday night forced a stoppage, giving the TKO win to Poirier. The break was nasty, and it happened as McGregor stepped back on his left foot, forcing his ankle to roll, dropping him back to the mat against the cage. As Poirier

Drink

was taking advantage of the moment, the round came to an end, and the fight was then stopped. McGregor’s post-fight interview with Joe Rogan wasn’t any prettier than the leg break, as a furious McGregor sat upright against the cage yelling into the mic, “This is not over,” while also dragging Poirier’s family back into the trashtalking, yelling, “Your wife is in me DM’s!” Not the best look for McGregor. To which, White agreed. “I don’t like that,” said the UFC President after the fight. “Yeah, that’s not good. Leave people’s family and wives and all that stuff out of it. Family has nothing to do with it.” McGregor looked and sounded like the guy in his mid-40’s who still shows up at the local wiffle ball tournament and loses while causing a complete scene afterwards. Nobody really wants him there anymore, but at the same time, the entertainment value is too good to deny. Right now, entertaining trash talk is all McGregor has left. And it’s almost as if he knows it. That’s why he made the desperate attempt to try and already start to promote the fourth fight between he and

Poirier, while sitting against the cage with his leg being placed in an air cast before being taken out in a stretcher. McGregor was thinking on the fly. He knows his own record. He understands that — including his boxing loss to Floyd Mayweather in 2017 — he’s lost four of his last five fights. He sees the writing on the wall. And at this point, his only chance at staying in the Main Event spotlight is stir up more controversy with his WWE-style microphone skills. If we’re being honest, it’s actually quite impressive that he was able to think that far ahead so quickly after having the fight end the way it did. But also, if we’re still being honest, McGregor shouldn’t be handed a fourth fight with Poirier “just because” of the way the third fight ended. McGregor needs to earn it. His broken leg is the nature of the beast. I could see if he rolled his ankle on his own and that’s how it broke. But in reality, it actually broke very early in the fight, as Poirier lifted his right leg when McGregor threw a kick. It wasn’t the best leg check in the world by Poirier, but it was enough to cause

OPEN

some type of damage, which was evident by Poirier immediately pointing at McGregor’s left leg, as if to say, “I got ya.” At that point, it was only a matter of time until McGregor’s injured leg affected his performance, which it did when it gave out on him at the end of the round. Call me crazy, but, McGregor’s broken leg wasn’t as “fluky” as White made it out to be. The sport involves different displays of defense. And while Poirier’s defense wasn’t exactly text-book, it was defense nonetheless. The way I look at it is, if you don’t want to break your leg when a guy attempts a leg check, then stop kicking. McGregor took a chance, and it hurt him. That’s the fight game. Poirier will now most likely be getting a title shot against Lightweight champion Charles Oliveira. What if Poirier wins and retains the championship until McGregor’s healthy. Should McGregor — who has now lost to Poirier twice in a row — just be handed a title shot? No way. He has to earn it all over again. Follow Danny on Twitter and Instagram @DannyPicard.

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SPORTS TODAY RED SOX Tweet ENTER of the SECOND HALF Week WITH MOST WINS IN AL

SBT Staff

he second half of the Major League Baseball season begins this weekend, and the Boston Red Sox will return from the All-Star break with a four-game series against the New York Yankees in the Bronx. Boston is in first place in the AL East and is eight games ahead of the fourth-place Yankees. With 55 wins at the All-Star break, the Red Sox are tied with the Houston Astros for most wins in the American League. The only teams in the National League that have more

wins are the San Francisco Giants with 57 and the Los Angeles Dodgers with 56. As good as the Red Sox played in the first half of the season, they still haven’t run away with the division. The 53-win Tampa Bay Rays are right behind them in second place in the AL East, just a game-and-a-half back. Boston had five players named All Stars: shortstop Xander Bogaerts, third baseman Rafael Devers, outfielder J.D. Martinez, starting pitcher Nathan Eovaldi, and closer Matt Barnes. Bogaerts

att Barnes is staying in Boston. The Red Sox closer — who was named an All Star for the first time in his career this season — signed a two-year, $18.75 million contract extension last weekend, keeping him in Boston at least through the 2023 season. The deal also has an $8 million club option for the 2024 season, which could escalate to $10 million, but also includes

a $2.25 million buyout for 2024. Barnes previously signed a oneyear, $4.5 million deal this past offseason. He entered the All-Star break tied for the second-most saves in the American League with 19. The 31-year-old closer has spent his entire career in the Red Sox organization since being drafted by Boston No. 19 overall in the 2011 Draft. His 360 relief outings ranks fourth in Red Sox history, behind Bob Stanley (552), Mike Timlin (394), and Jona-

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and Devers were named starters. Bogaerts went into the break with the second-most doubles in the majors. His 27 doubles leads the AL but ranks behind the leagueleading Nick Castellanos, who has 29 doubles for the Cincinnati Reds. Bogaerts also has the fifth-best batting average in baseball at .321. Devers entered the All-Star break with the second-most RBIs in Major League Baseball, with 72, just one shy of Vladimir Guerrero Jr.’s league-leading 73, and two more than Angels phenom Shohei Ohtani’s 70 RBIs.

SOX NOTES: BARNES SIGNS EXTENSION, MAYER DRAFTED FOURTH OVERALL SBT Staff

July 15, 2021

than Papelbon (393). -Speaking of first-round draft picks, the Red Sox selected 18-yearold shortstop Marcelo Mayer with the No. 4 overall pick in the 2021 MLB Draft this past weekend. Mayer was ranked the No. 1 prospect in this year’s draft by MLB.com, and the No. 2 prospect by Baseball America. He’s a left-handed hitter out of Eastlake High School in Chula Vista, CA. Prior to the Draft, Mayer committed to play baseball at USC.

HARRY REQUESTS TRADE FROM PATRIOTS

ew England Patriots wide receiver N’Keal Harry has requested a trade. His agent, Jamal Tooson, made the request formal in a statement released by NFL Network reporter Mike Garafolo. That statement read: “For the past several months, I have been working in cooperation with the Patriots behind the scenes to put a plan in place to allow N’Keal to thrive in New England. Through two seasons, he has 86 targets, which obviously hasn’t met the expectations the Patriots and N’Keal had when they drafted a dominant downfield threat who was virtually unstoppable at the point of attack in college. Following numerous conversations with the Patriots, I believe it’s time for a fresh start and best for both parties if N’Keal moves on before the start of training camp. That’s why I have informed the Patriots today I am formally requesting a trade on behalf of my client. “N’Keal understands a key ingredient to production is opportunity. He will continue to work hard to develop and refine his craft after missing a large portion of his rookie year to injury. His draft-day expectations for his NFL career have not changed. We are confident success is just around the corner for him and will aggressively pursue it.”