South Boston Today March 24 2022 by SouthBostonTodayOnline

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March 24, 2022: Vol.10 Issue 12

SERVING SOUTH BOSTONIANS AROUND THE GLOBE

Mental Health Progress And The Turning 22 Program Disrupted By Pandemic

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he Massachusetts House of Representatives intends to pursue a mental health bill during the remainder of the legislative session, complementing and broadening the behavioral health care reforms passed by the Senate last fall, House Speaker Ron Mariano disclosed Wednesday. Mariano said the House legislation would not compete with the

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March 24, 2022

EDITORIAL Crude Behavior By Protestors Hurt Their Cause. Wrong Time And Place.

mericans are fortunate. In our country, our Constitution gives us the right to express ourselves openly and that includes the right to publicly protest, if we consider government policies to be wrong and unfair. South Bostonians have never been shy about getting our point across. We can be loud, and we can be vocal if the situation calls for it. But Southie residents, much like most Americans, have always felt that, though we see what we consider an injustice, disruptive behavior is not always appropriate in certain situations. And this brings us to the boisterous group that attempted to disrupt the Annual Commemoration and Student Awards event held at Dorchester Heights last week, March 17th – Evacuation Day. It was the traditional event, organized by the South Boston Citizens Association which lays a wreath honoring America’s military, as well as presenting much deserved awards to lo-

cal young students and neighborhood children for their hard work and accomplishments. This is a beautiful tradition that goes off perfectly each March 17th. Some would call it a sacred ceremony that blends in with a positive experience for the school children. But this year, a group protesting Covid mandates in the city showed up and, as the ceremony was taking place, members of this group felt the need to bang on a drum and shout insults over a bull horn in an attempt to drown out the speakers. It also scared many of the young children, some of whom were so frightened they were crying. The gripes expressed by the protestors are considered legitimate by many. They have a particular problem with the mandates put in place by Mayor Wu who was in attendance. Recent surveys show that now, most people agree with the views of the protestors especially when it comes to forcing children to wear masks. It

also is threatening the livelihoods of workers who, for personal reasons and convictions, choose not to be vaccinated. And though the demonstrating group had the legal right to be there, disrupting a ceremony honoring our nation’s military and presenting awards to young students, who were clearly and visibly shaken, should have been considered off

limits to anyone with a sense of decency. The crude and disruptive behavior exhibited by the demonstrating group won them no friends or converts last Thursday. In fact, it definitely lost them support. There is a time and place for legal and legitimate protest, even loud and vocal protest. And then there are times and special, yes sacred, occasions that respect is

in order. The protestors on this day at Dorchester Heights seemed to be ignorant of that fact. The good news is the event went off despite the ignorance on display. Try as they did, the demonstrators could not diminish the spirit and the pride that the crowd that turned out on this Evacuation Day 2022 to honor our military and accomplishments of our neighborhood’s children had in their hearts.

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News Media Lies Have Destroyed Its Credibility Forever SOUTH BOSTON TODAY John Ciccone

f there is anything positive about what the left-wing news media in our country has become, it’s that among the American population, only the hopelessly naïve still believe they are fair and unbiased and can be trusted to report the truth. As for the overwhelming majority of the people who pay attention to what’s going on – they/we, have smartened up and can no longer be fooled or conned by a corrupt and lying press. Media outlets like CNN, MSNBC, the 3 major networks, The New York Times, Washington Post and so many others have been caught putting out false stories so often, that their credibility level is lower than Brandon’s and that of Kamala Harris. Most people see what’s going on because it’s so blatant and happens so often, these news outlets no longer even bother to apologize or issue retractions when they are caught in their deceptions. There are countless instances of the press trying to convince the public that what they know to be true isn’t. We shouldn’t believe our lying eyes is pretty much what they try to make us believe. But let’s start with the main issue currently affecting the majority of Americans. The liberal press is desperate to convince us all that the sky-high gas prices, the spiking cost of food and other necessities isn’t the fault of Brandon and the Democrats, it’s all the fault of Putin and his invasion of Ukraine. And though it comes as a big disappointment to those in the news media, Americans aren’t stupid. These rising prices and the crashing economy started on the very week that Brandon took office. How do Americans know this? What proof is there? Because it’s everyday Americans who shop for groceries and see how much less they now get with the amount of money they were spending just a year ago. When drivers pull up to the gas pumps

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or open their home heating bills and nearly empty their wallets to fill their fuel tanks or stay warm when it’s cold, what’s going on could not be more clear and who is causing it and yes, when it started. The invasion of Ukraine is barely a month old. Prices have been rising at crazy rates of speed for nearly a year and a half. And yet, reporters and news casters actually still think they can make everyone believe that what people are experiencing firsthand isn’t really happening at all. The crisis on the southern border is another current example. Though the border is no longer secure once Trump left office, the Democrats, backed by their allies in the press deny it. The live videos of the people swarming into our country; among them drug cartel members, MS-13 and other violent gangs, human traffickers and criminals of every kind is all just an illusion being pushed by the Republicans and rightwing Conservatives reporters insist. Videos and live accounts of illegals being loaded onto buses and planes by the government and relocated to towns and cities all across our country is all just a figment of our imaginations. When election officials and workers are caught red handed tampering with ballots the media jumps right in and kills the story, just like they were doing with the Hunter Biden laptop expose. And though even the New York Times’ constant denials that there was any proof of corruption regarding this controversy, had to reluctantly correct its story, because the proof is now indisputable, you have buffoons like Jimmy Kimmel still insisting on his TV show that the story is false. The CDC and other health organizations were found to be inflating the number of deaths caused by Covid-19 by massive numbers and the media backed them up the whole way. But when the truth came out, the press buried that story too. The blatant indoctri-

nation of young students in America’s public schools with racist programs like Critical Race Theory were being sugar coated and even denied until parents went on the war path and showed up in droves with proof in hand that their children were being divided based on the color of their skin and in some cases urged to distrust and hate each other. The media again, denied it was happening and then attacked the parents for being radicals and terrorists because they are speaking up on behalf of and in defense of their children. And who can forget the summer of 2020, when Antifa and Black Lives Matter were burning cities and killing police officers while

reporters, broadcasting from in front of the burning buildings insisted that these were just peaceful protests. With each passing day, there are more incidents of news media lies in its attempt to convince us that what we know to be true and has been proven to be true, really isn’t true at all. But each passing day also shows the American public just how corrupt and untrustworthy the media actually is. Said one Conservative member of Congress: “If CNN tells me the sun is out, I instantly go to the window to check and expect it to be raining.” And it’s not just CNN that is no longer trusted, It’s most of them.

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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.

Democratic and Republican leaders on Beacon Hill are going head-to-head this morning with House Speaker Ronald Mariano and Senate President Karen Spilka set to talk with the State House News Service and MASSterList at 11 a.m. and Republican lawmakers pressing forward with their uphill battle to suspend the state’s gas tax. Senate President Karen Spilka and House Speaker Ron Mariano met to touch on their priorities for the rest of the legislative session, their working relationship, and other hot button issues facing Beacon Hill. From sports betting and mental health to tax relief, lawmakers have a lot to balance as they also work to craft next year’s state budget. State Republican leaders were in front of the State House to advocate for a temporary suspension of the state’s 24-cent gas tax. It’s the first-time leaders of the Legislature’s Republican caucus have held a formal press conference in quite a while. Maryland and Georgia have already suspended their state fuel taxes and New Hampshire Gov. Chris Sununu supports the idea in his state, but so far Democrats on Beacon Hill have called it a gimmick that would hurt that state’s bond rating. The House rejected the idea without a vote, and even Gov. Charlie Baker has seemed uninterested in taking up the cause. Since gas prices peaked at an average of $4.36 on March, they’ve actually fallen 10 cents to $4.26 as of Tuesday, according to AAA Massachusetts. But even falling prices and Democratic opposition doesn’t mean there isn’t political value in continuing to beat the overpriced oil drum. Republican gubernatorial candidate Geoff Diehl said Tuesday if lawmakers don’t

suspend the gas tax they should give up the stipends they receive for commuting and district office expenses. Worcester city manager announces departure Longtime Worcester City Manager Edward Augustus is stepping down from his post later this year. Augustus announced his decision Tuesday to leave at the end of May but did not make clear what his post-City Hall plans are, the Telegram & Gazette’s Steven H. Foskett Jr. reports. More from Foskett: “His announcement will effectively leave the City Council and the School Committee searching for chief executives in the same year. Augustus in 2019 negotiated a contract extension through Oct. 2025.” All alone: Golden will be sole interviewee for Lowell city manager State Rep. Tom Golden will be the one and only candidate interviewed for the job of Lowell city manager, Jacob Vitali of The Sun reports. The City Council voted unanimously to advance only Golden’s candidacy to the next round of the process to replace outgoing manager Eileen Donoghue. Baker talks getting people back to work during Boston Chamber address Gov. Charlie Baker gave his first in-person speech in two years to the business community Tuesday morning. State House News Service’s Matt Murphy reports Baker focused on some “unusual approaches” he plans to unveil later this week to help get people back to work. He also pitched his $700 million tax relief package, his healthcare bill, and his $9.7 borrowing bill that invests highways, transit, and environmental infrastructure.

Wu urges against state control of BPS Don’t do it. That’s the message Boston Mayor Michelle Wu is sending state education officials in regards to a potential state board of education takeover of Boston Public Schools. Boston Globe’s Naomi Martin reports Wu testified in front of the Massachusetts Board of Elementary and Secondary Education Tuesday morning just as state officials are starting a new review of BPS. More from Martin: “The move has sparked speculation that the state could be building a case for state receivership, in which the state would appoint a leader to control the system, undermining the decision-making power of Boston’s mayor and school committee.” Health care executive joins Rhode Island gubernatorial race A Republican (and former New England Golden Gloves Boxer) has entered the race for governor of Rhode Island. Boston Globe’s Edward Fitzpatrick reports health care executive Ashley Kalus announced her bid for the state’s top seat Tuesday. Providence Journal’s Katherine Gregg reports Kalus is a Rhode Island newcomer, having registered to vote in the state in January. She joins five other Democrats running for governor. New report finds evictions hit communities of color hardest A new report from a state advocacy group found that after the state’s eviction moratorium ended in October, communities of color faced more new eviction filings than predominantly white communities. GBH News’ Adam Reilly reports that Homes For All Massachusetts found that between Oct. 18, 2020 and Oct. 30, 2021, continued on page 6

March 24, 2022

CITATION ON PETITION FOR FORMAL ADJUDICATION Docket No. SU21P2619EA Commonwealth Of Massachusetts The Trial Court Probate and Family Court Estate of: Mary P. Lentini Date of Death: 08/19/2021 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: Carmela A. Whalen of South 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: Carmela A. Whalen of South 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 04/22/2022. 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 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 the distribution of assets and expenses of administration. WITNESS, Hon. Brian J. Dunn, First Justice of this Court. Date: March 16, 2022 Felix D. Arroyo, Register of Probate March 24, 2022

March 24, 2022

Massport Announces Goal to be Net Zero by 2031

Reduces GHG emissions by Authority’s 75th Anniversary

he Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport) unveiled a new, bold agenda to reduce carbon emissions across all facilities and become Net Zero by 2031, coinciding with the Authority’s 75th anniversary. The Roadmap to Net Zero focuses on 100% of the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions directly controlled by Massport-owned facilities, equipment, and purchased electricity, with continued influence in areas the Authority does not control. The plan outlines the steps Massport will take to reduce emissions within the decade, directly benefitting neighboring communities and further preparing the Authority for the impacts of climate change. “Massport is committed to working with our surrounding communities to reduce our impacts to the environment, while remaining focused on supporting the region’s economy,” said Massport Board Chairman Lew Evangelidis. “Massport’s Roadmap to Net Zero aligns with the Commonwealth’s climate goals.” Massport will accomplish this by: • Improving energy efficiency in buildings through design standards and operational controls; • Transitioning to clean fuel sources such as renewable electricity, renewable natural gas, etc.; • Generating as much renewable energy as possible on-site, and make off-site renewable energy purchases; • Acquiring renewable energy credits, renewable identification numbers, and carbon offsets as a transition strategy, for the fossil fuel sources that cannot be reduced, electrified or switched to renewable energy in the near-term; • Implementing all remaining

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facility-specific initiatives identified to ultimately reach net zero. “The pandemic gave us an opportunity to rethink the way we do business going forward, and we are now on the path to Net Zero,” said Massport CEO Lisa Wieland. “This is a real commitment, with aggressive goals, tied to real actions that will take us to Net Zero by 2031, which also happens to be Massport’s 75th anniversary. While we get our own house in order, simultaneously we will be working with our business partners on ways they can help reduce emissions.” For any areas where emissions cannot be reduced to zero, Massport will invest in carbon offsets to reach the target. The Authority expects to be Net Zero without offsets by 2040. Carbon offsets are investments in GHG reducing projects, such as a solar farm, that diminish the impact of an organization’s own GHG emissions. Massport’s aim would be to purchase offsets that benefit local projects within the Commonwealth. “As an East Boston resident and community advocate, I’m glad to see Massport making this commitment to becoming Net Zero that will greatly benefit neighboring cities and towns,” said John Nucci, Massport Board member and Chair of the Community Outreach Committee. “Logan Airport and Massport’s other facilities create greenhouse gases that impact our neighbors and this plan takes real steps to improve air quality and reduce those impacts.” Components of the phased plan controlled by Massport include items like upgrading lighting systems across all facilities to LEDs, which has already been started, to rehabilitating Logan Airport’s Central Heating Plant, upgrading the Logan Express and shuttle bus fleet to electric vehicles, and installing more solar panels and renewable energy sources. There is also a section of the

plan including emissions that Massport does not control, but can possibly influence. One such example of an area of potential influence would be to enable use of SAF at Logan. SAF, or sustainable aviation fuels, are a renewable/cleaner substitute for fossil jet fuels that reduce carbon emissions and improve the air quality. It is estimated that more than 99% of airline emissions and approximately 50% of airport emissions worldwide are related to the combustion of jet fuel. This past fall, President Biden announced a goal for U.S. companies to produce at least 3 billion gallons of SAF per year by 2030 and, by 2050, sufficient SAF to meet 100% of aviation fuel demand, which is currently projected to be around 35 billion gallons per year. Massport will work to enable use of SAF at our three airports and

encourage our airline partners to transition to this alternative fuel while longer term strategies are evaluated, approved and adopted. Massport currently has several programs to reduce emissions and has had success with environmental initiatives. Past projects include: • On-airport clean-fuel buses since the mid-1990s; • In 2001, Hanscom Field became the first U.S. airport to earn ISO 14001 certification for its Environmental Management Systems (EMS); • In 2003, Conley Terminal was the first U.S. container terminal to implement an EMS and receive ISO 14001 certification; • In 2005, Logan’s Terminal A redevelopment was the first LEED® Certified airport terminal in the world; • Installation of on-site renewable energy sources, including solar and wind; • Developed more than 37 acres of greenspace within our surcontinued on page 6

Massport is currently accepting applications for the following Scholarships: • THOMAS J. BUTLER MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP Awarded to a high school senior who resides and is involved in community service in South Boston, with a minimum 3.0 GPA. • DEBORAH HADDEN GRAY MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP Awarded to a high school senior who resides and is involved in community service or employment in the city of Boston, Chelsea, Revere or Winthrop, with a minimum 3.0 GPA. • LOWELL L. RICHARDS III MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP Awarded to a high school senior who resides and is involved in community service in the city of Boston, Chelsea, Revere, or Winthrop, with a minimum 3.0 GPA. • DIVERSITY STEM SCHOLARSHIP Awarded to high school seniors of color who reside or attend school in the city of Boston, Chelsea, Winthrop, Revere, Worcester, Bedford, Concord, Lexington, or Lincoln, and are involved in community service with a minimum 3.0 GPA. Scholarship applications must be received by Massport no later than 5:00 p.m. on Friday, April 29, 2022. For more information on these scholarships, including application checklist and criteria please visit www.massport.com

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Mental Health continued from front page

Senate’s Mental Health ABC Act 2.0, designed to ameliorate the stigma surrounding mental illness, tackle the emergency room boarding crisis, implement annual mental wellness exams, and grow the behavioral health care workforce, among other focus areas. Rather, Mariano said during a virtual State House News Service forum, the House and Senate should ultimately be able to merge their respective bills to galvanize “a real comprehensive change in how we deal with mental health.” Mariano described mental health as “the poor stepchild” that policymakers have “dragged along” without addressing specific factors stifling the adequate delivery of care. “It is a significant segment of the health care economy that’s been neglected, and we’ve seen the results of that because of the pandemic,” Mariano said. “The needs are great.” The commonwealth is a leader in health care and pharmaceutical access, Senate President Karen Spilka said, but now it must transform into a leader for mental health, too. “We have the know-how. We have the will — clearly, you’re hearing we have the will,” Spilka said. “Not certain the governor will need to put his dukes up for anything in particular here. Certainly, we’ll listen; we’ll have some dialogue. But again, the train is out of the station already here, so I am looking forward to getting it done.” An issue that must also generate

Window continued from page 4

43 percent of all eviction filings in Massachusetts occurred in areas where most residents identified as people of color. Boston Business Journal’s Steph Solis reports the study makes the argument that corporate landlords were the driving force behind eviction filings. Sullivan rolls out new endorsements from state, local officials

MCM Properties

the same level of commitment is that of Senate Bill S.2751, formerly S.282 filed by Senator Michael Barret. This is ‘An Act addressing the needs of students with disabilities turning 22 during the COVID-19 emergency”. On March 10, 2022, The Committee on Education heard the related petitions of Michael J. Barrett, Jack Patrick Lewis, Thomas M. Stanley, Paul F. Tucker and other members of the General Court, as well as those of Diana DiZoglio, Kimberly N. Ferguson, Hannah Kane and Patrick M. O’Connor for legislation relative to school services for certain 22-yearold students and reported out S. 2751 to the Committee on Ways and Means where it currently is held. This legislation helps to address the needs of students with disabilities who turn 22 during this pandemic and require compensatory special education services to address their regression or lack of progress due to the disruption in Individualized Education Program (IEP) services caused by the state of emergency. Consistent with federal and state law and guidance, IEP teams will determine which students ages 3-22 require compensatory services. However, for students with disabilities who turn 22 during COVID-19, critical circuit breaker funds are not available to help districts pay for the costs of these services. This legislation would amend the circuit breaker statute to allow reimbursement for the costs associated with providing compensatory special education services for students who

Secretary of State candidate Tanisha Sullivan is rolling out a slate of new endorsements this morning from state and local leaders. Among the endorsers: Reps. Russell Holmes, Nika Elugardo, Liz Miranda, Boston City Councilors Julia Mejia, Ruthzee Louijeune, Ricardo Arroyo, Kendra Lara, and Tania Fernandes Anderson.

turn 22 (or who otherwise become ineligible for special education services) during the pandemic. While circuit breaker funds can currently be used for compensatory services for children ages 3-22, the statute does not allow reimbursement for students past their 22nd birthday. Without this bill, districts would need to rely solely on local and federal funding. Special education compensatory services are additional services required by federal special education law when necessary to address a student’s loss of skills or lack of progress because IEP services were not provided, or because the student could not access remote IEP services. IEP teams, consistent with federal and state law and guidance, will determine which students are eligible for compensatory services based on each student’s demonstrated needs. Each of the Commonwealth’s 400 school districts will only need to address the compensatory needs of a small number of students turning 22. Statewide, there are approximately 1,000 students turning 22, not all of whom will require compensatory services. • This legislation is important to ensure equitable access to the compensatory special education services essential to help mitigate the harm experienced by students turning 22 during the pandemic. The challenge for these young adults is tough enough in a pandemic-free environment. Relief is granted across the spectrum. These persons deserve the relief as well and the districts need the funds to provide the further support.

Moulton, Auchincloss bill sets sights on Russian yachts U.S. Reps. Seth Moulton and Jake Auchincloss are co-sponsoring legislation that would authorize the federal government to seize mega yachts owned by Russian oligarchs, resell them and use the proceeds to provide humanitarian aid to the people of Ukraine, Christian Wade of the Gloucester Times reports.

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March 24, 2022

Massport continued from page 5

rounding communities; • two new parks currently being designed in East Boston will be an additional 8 acres • Since 1990, Massport has invested more than $100 million in High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) transportation to and from Logan Airport, including the Logan Express system and free MBTA Silver Line service to South Station; • In 2014, completed the Rental Car Center at Logana LEED Gold certified building that consolidated nine rental car agencies into one center; reduced 100 diesel buses trips to 28 hybrid buses per hour; decreased shuttle bus vehicle miles by 70%, with an accompanying 35% decrease in airport-related emissions. The facility also has rooftop solar panels that account for 5% of the building’s energy usage; • Cut carbon emissions at Logan by 40% by 2019 – goal was 2020; • Cut energy consumption at Logan by 25% by 2019 – goal was 2020. Massport will continue to pursue outside funding to help pay for some of these projects. The Authority was recently awarded $600,000 by the Mass. Clean Energy Center for a pilot project to build electric vehicle infrastructure at Logan to catalyze the electrification of the ride-for-hire industry. In 2020, Massport received a $4M VALE grant to acquire charging stations at Logan for eGSE (electric ground service equipment). The EPA granted Massport $500,000 in 2018 to install airline owned eGSE charging stations at Logan’s Terminal B, and $330,000 in 2015 for a Clean Diesel Project at Conley Terminal. The next steps in the road map will be prioritizing the projects, further data analysis, creating the budget strategy, and timeline.

March 24, 2022

SOUTHBOSTONTODAY • www.southbostontoday.com

Rep. Lynch Announces Funding for Women’s Substance Abuse Recovery Center

.S. Representative Stephen F. Lynch (MA-08) announced funding for the Gavin Foundation was included in H.R. 2714, the twelve-bill government funding package that has been signed into law. This spending package for Fiscal Year 2022 provides $1,000,000 in funding to the Gavin Foundation that will be used to construct a new treatment facility for women and expand access to critical programs and resources to help those struggling with substance abuse. “I am very pleased the funding for the Gavin Foundation was included in the final appropriations bill,” said Rep. Lynch. “The Gavin Foundation has been instrumental in the fight against the drug crisis and

John McGahan. “This funding will be used renovate the former St. Greg’s convent into Eileen’s House, a residential recovery home for women. We are seeing firsthand how addiction and behavioral health issues have been exacerbated by the Covid 19 pandemic. This grant award allows us to increase service capacity now when the women and community need it most. Eileen’s House will provide trauma informed; evidence based treatment in a nurturing, structured and safe environment. It will promote self-care, self-reliance and community responsibility that will lead to lasting recovery. On behalf of the residents and recovery community please know we are grateful for the support and opportunity to

provide these life changing services at Eileen’s House.” This community project request was funded in the Labor-Health and Human Services bill of the appropriations package, which in full provides $1.5 trillion in discretionary resources that will help support American families, protect our national security and strengthen public health. H.R. 2714 makes historic investments in creating jobs, funding benefits for our veterans and expanding affordable housing for seniors and persons with disabilities. It also strengthens lifesaving biomedical research through increased funding for the National Institutes of Health, invests in clean energy technology and supports underserved small businesses and entrepreneurs.

ABCD Calls for Additional Fuel Aid Funds

combat the rise in energy costs. But no one anticipated the current sky-rocketing costs that are putting our most vulnerable families at terrible risk. APPLY NOW! There is funding for new applicants. Boston-area residents can apply by calling ABCD Fuel Assistance at 617-357-6012. Those living in the Mystic Valley region can call 781-3226284. Help with applications is also available at all ABCD neighborhood centers. A new online system for first-time fuel assistance applicants can be accessed at toapply.org/MassLIHEAP. Go to bostonabcd. org/heat for detailed information, including a listing of neighborhood centers with contact information. The 2022 federal poverty level for a family of four is $26,500 in earnings annually or $12,880 for a single person. To keep struggling families and elders from falling through the cracks, help with fuel costs is also available to those slightly above poverty level. For example, a family of four earning $78,751 or a single person with an income of $40,951 may currently qualify for $989 in fuel assistance.

s home heating oil reaches an unprecedented high of $6 per gallon, a whopping 120,000plus Massachusetts households receiving fuel assistance have used up their benefits. These tens of thousands of families with young children, seniors and others are scrambling to keep their homes warm as relentless March cold continues to hit Massachusetts. One working single mother served by ABCD said she called home from the office to tell her son to turn off the heat. “He said ‘You mean turn it down, mom?’ and I replied ‘NO, TURN IT OFF. We are out of benefits and can’t afford an oil delivery.’” At a cost of $6 per gallon, it takes $1,650 to fill an oil tank, a fill-up that lasts less than a month.

their devotion to help those struggling with addiction continues to save lives and mend families every day. This money will be used to reconstruct St. Gregory Parish in Dorchester into Eileen’s House, a residential center for women trying to recover from substance abuse. This new location will help expand access to a safe and supportive environment for the women in our community who need it most. I give great credit to President/CEO John McGahan for his dedicated hard work and support to help those struggling with addiction.” “We are most grateful for Congressman Stephen Lynch’s support and advocacy for Gavin Foundation’s Community Project Funding Request for $1,000,000,” said CEO

Home heating oil reaches $6/gallon high; More than 120,000 MA fuel assistance households out of benefits “America’s low-income families are in full-blown economic crisis,” said John J. Drew, President/CEO, Action for Boston Community Development. “They are striving to fill their gas tanks to get to work and buy food and other necessities at soaring prices. These are our most vulnerable residents. They need and deserve help NOW. Here in the Northeast it stays cold through April.” Drew said he and all providers and recipients are grateful for the increased fuel assistance provided this year through the federal Low-income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), but given the current world-wide economic crisis, immediate additional federal help is needed. The spike in heating costs followed President Biden’s March 7 banning of Russian oil imports. Drew is also hopeful that the Com-

monwealth of Massachusetts will provide heating assistance in the supplemental state budget now in process, thanking Representative Kevin Honan and House Ways & Means Chair Aaron Michlewitz for supporting an amendment requesting $50 million in fuel assistance. That amendment was reduced to $5 million in the House and is now in the Senate with hopes of passage at the $50 million level. Immediate fuel assistance funding will be life-saving for oil and propane heat customers who are out of benefits as well as prevent shut off for electric and gas customers. The winter moratorium on shut offs for utility customers ends April 1. Eligible households most in need currently receive $1,650 in fuel assistance benefits through the Low-income Home Energy Assistance (LIHEAP) program, an increase from last year intended to help

SOUTHBOSTONTODAY • www.southbostontoday.com

The

Wine Guy

Something New

ypically, I’ve reviewed 3-4 wines in this column; today, I’d like to try something different-more reviews in the same space. Ferrari-Carano Chardonnay, Sonoma, California, ($18.99) - This Alexander Valley Chardonnay is a delicious wine with floral and fruit aromas of orange blossom, citrus, pear, figs, green apple, and a hint of toasted marshmallow and caramel. Generous on the palate, creamy vanilla undertones balance layers of toast and spice. J Lohr Chardonnay Riverstone, Arroyo Seco, Central Coast, California, ($15.99) The fresh aromas of lime zest, nectarine, peach and apple combined with the perfumed vanilla and toasted oak bouquet lead to flavors of peach, nectarine and citrus on the palate with subtle butter and vanilla toastiness. Cambria Chardonnay, Kath-

March 24, 2022

erine’s Vineyard, Santa Maria Valley, California, ($18.99) -Winemaker Jill Russell does wonders with this widely available wine. Aromas of Meyer lemon and sea salt ride over roasted peach on the nose, leading into pan seared apple, more salt and a touch of warm butter on the palate. Sonoma-Cutrer Chardonnay Sonoma Coast, California, ($19.99) - Flavors of lemon, apple, pear, pineapple and cantaloupe - the full array of Sonoma’s cornucopia of fruit, join a nutty, spicy, lightly oak profile that stakes out a unique territory sure to please those who love Chardonnay. Oak Grove Chardonnay Reserve, California, ($10.99) Full of ripe fruit flavors, primarily Apples and Pears, along with a smooth, lengthy finish. Oak Grove believes that the best wines are made in the vineyard, so they seek out the finest grapes from the cool appellations of California to come up with this national top seller. River Road Chardonnay Sonoma, California, ($18.99) The 2019 Chardonnay Sonoma County shows nicely, with a lean, pure, yet also rich style offering plenty of stone fruits, wood smoke, hints of white flowers, & a touch of toasted nuts. Soft, supple, & nicely textured on the palate with a clean, elegant, drinkable style. Talk To The Wine Guy at jdris8888@gmail.com

Mass Bay Credit Union Shred-It Events - Open to the Community

hred your old documents – and forget ‘em – FREE – at Mass Bay Credit Union’s Shred-It Events! Two dates and locations: Saturday, April 2, 2022, from 9:00AM-11:30AM at Mass Bay Credit Union 147 West 4th Street in South Boston Saturday, April 23, 2022, from

9:00AM-11:30AM at the Rivergreen Park Parking Lot in Everett “We enjoy bringing this FREE opportunity to the community, and we’re very excited to have two April dates planned,” says Mass Bay CEO Terry Dorilas. “Information Security plays an essential role in banking and we want to provide a safe, secure and convenient process for the community to dispose of their confidential documents.” The Shred-It events are open to all

living or working in the community. There is a 5-box limit per person. Like all credit unions, Mass Bay Credit Union is owned by the Members who choose to do business there. Membership eligibility, such as living in Middlesex, Norfolk or Suffolk counties or a dozen other towns, is located on massbaycu.org. Opening a savings account establishes Membership and opens availability to all other products offered by the credit union. In addition to its South Boston

Headquarters, Mass Bay Credit Union has branches in Everett, Quincy and the Seaport. Over 19,000 people choose Mass Bay Credit Union for great rates, low fees and personal service. In addition to offering a full array of deposit and lending products, Mass Bay Credit Union Members have access to over 55,000 surcharge free ATMs and 6,800 credit union branches. In business since 1936, Mass Bay Credit Union has assets in excess of $275 million.

March 24, 2022

SOUTHBOSTONTODAY • www.southbostontoday.com

Virtual Public Meeting

202 W. 2nd St. Wednesday, April 6

Please join us for a

Zoom Link: bit.ly/3uwPPaH Toll Free: (833) 568 - 8864 Meeting ID: 161 827 1778

6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

Virtual Deconstruction Community Meeting

Project Description: The Proponent seeks to transform the Project Site by constructing a new four (4) story mixed-use commercial office building of approximately 42,000 gross square feet, for life sciences, research/ development uses, and including active ground floor space, with a main Building Height of approximately 60-feet and six (6) inches (as defined by the Code) and a screened mechanical level of no more than 14-feet tall (at the 5th level), along with garaged parking for 24 vehicles and bicycle storage, widened sidewalks and improved connections to South Boston’s lower end. mail to:

phone: email:

Stephen Harvey Boston Planning & Development Agency One City Hall Square, 9th Floor Boston, MA 02201 617.918.4418 stephen.j.harvey@boston.gov

776 Summer Street Deconstruction Update Wednesday, March 30, 2022 6:00 PM ET Register in advance for this webinar: After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar. Questions and Project info: HRPInfoNortheast@hilcoglobal.com Scan QR or visit link to register

Visit the Deconstruction Website: www.suffolk-lstreetstationboston.com

BostonPlans.org

https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_bbnKizR2S82AUJaq1kDqpg

@BostonPlans

Teresa Polhemus, Executive Director/Secretary

Virtual Public Meeting

330 C Street Wednesday, April 20

Zoom Link: bit.ly/3tdutzn

6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

Toll Free: (833) 568 - 8864

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MCM Properties mcmproperties.com

Meeting ID: 160 324 0184 Project Description: The proposed project consists of a new six-story 74-room hotel, with a ground-floor restaurant, situated at 330 C Street in South Boston. The lot size is approximately 8,202 square feet and is currently occupied by a vacant single-story concrete block building which formerly housed a repair garage.

mail to: Stephen Harvey Boston Planning & Development Agency One City Hall Square, 9th Floor Boston, MA 02201 phone: 617.918.4418 email: stephen.j.harvey@boston.gov

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SOUTHBOSTONTODAY • www.southbostontoday.com

March 24, 2022

Without Evacuation Day, There Would Be No July 4th

arch 17th is a special day in South Boston. We honor General George Washington and the evacuation of the British from Boston at the Dorchester Heights and we celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, the Patron Saint of Ireland. Guests were welcomed by the Superintendent of National Parks-Boston, Michael Creasey. The morning started with JROTC (South Boston) presenting the Colors, the Pledge of Allegiance, the National Anthem performed by the BU band and a

moment of silence for the people of the Ukraine. Once underway, there were speeches and reflections from Senator Nick Collins, State Rep. David Biele, Mayor Michelle Wu, Council President Ed Flynn and Councilor At Large Michael Flaherty. Professor Robert Allison spoke of the history surrounding the Dorchester Heights and had the attention of the crowd. The South Boston Citizens’ Association (Tom McGrath and Bernie O’Donnell) recognized the winning recipients

for the annual Poster Contest and Essay Writing Contest of which the topics are always reflective of this period in history. Michael Dowling of SPOKE was proud to speak about the accomplishment of No Man’s Land and it is now recognized as part of NPS. The biggest announcement of the morning came from Gay Vietzke, Regional Director for National Park Service. The Dorchester Heights has received $25million for restorations to the monument and grounds!

This comes from the Great American Outdoors Act and we can thank our own Congressman Stephen Lynch and Ed Markey. There were over 200 people in attendance this year to congratulate the winners and take part in the historical exercises. The day ended with the laying of the wreath, playing of TAPS by Kim Shaw and retiring of the Colors. Coffee, pastry and great conversation followed the event. Until next year, remember the password of the day…Saint Patrick.

March 24, 2022

SOUTHBOSTONTODAY • www.southbostontoday.com

Outstanding! C

ongratulations to Tommy McGrath and the South Boston Citizens’ Association on the success of the 142nd

March 24, 2022

Evacuation Day Banquet. It was an Anniversary to remember! It’s been two years and the event was sold out and most enjoyable.

March 24, 2022

SOUTHBOSTONTODAY • www.southbostontoday.com

South Boston Catholic Academy News

Celebrating Evacuation Day!

olonel Henry Knox visited the students at South Boston Catholic Academy. Knox told the students, many of whom had written essays for the South Boston Citizens Association Poster & Essay Contest, about dragging cannon from Fort Ticonderoga to Boston in the winter and using them to force the British evacuation on

March 17, 1776. Knox, portrayed by Archer O’Reilly, was joined by Professor Robert Allison of the South Boston Historical Society. The students at South Boston Catholic Academy had great questions about Evacuation Day and learned from Colonel Knox about why their neighborhood has a National Park at its center.

A Big Thank you to Mr. Archer O’Reilly, Professor Robert and Mrs. Phyllis Allison and Mr. John Allison for coming to our school and teaching us about this important event in South Boston history. Congratulations to our students in 6B who won the Evacuation Day Essay Contest. Our First-Place winner was Anshul Kesireddy, our Second Place Winner was Audrey Bahsen and our Third Place Winner was Kim Patel. Everyone who participated in this contest did a great job! On March 17, 1776, the Brit-

March 24, 2022

ish military evacuated the city of Boston, Massachusetts and never returned. The city of Boston annually celebrates this day as an official holiday called Boston Evacuation Day. On Thursday, March 17, 2022, our 3rd, 4th, 5th and 6th graders had a chance to attend the Evacuation Day Ceremony at Dorchester Heights. New families are welcome to email Mrs. Jamie Brown at j.brown@ sbcatholicacademy.org for more information about South Boston Catholic Academy.

March 24, 2022

SOUTHBOSTONTODAY • www.southbostontoday.com

St. Patrick’s Day Parade PhotosWHAT 2022 TOWATCH

Welcome Back!

SOUTHBOSTONTODAY • www.southbostontoday.com

March 24, 2022

SOUTHBOSTONTODAY • www.southbostontoday.com

March 24, 2022

SOUTHBOSTONTODAY • www.southbostontoday.com

This week,

Danny shared his thoughts on Tom Brady publicly recruiting Julian Edelman:

t’s funny. We’re all laughing, having a good time. What other reaction would there be to watching a video on social media of Tom Brady throwing passes to Julian Edelman out in California? Brady posted a video this week of him throwing passes to Edelman at UCLA, with a caption that read, “Still the best way to get some cardio in,” while tagging Edelman in the post. To which, Edelman re-posted with a caption of his own that read, “How’s the knee look?” For what it’s worth, Edelman also added the “eye” emoji at the end of his post. So, what is it worth, exactly? Well, for starters, the timing of this video is deceiving. It’s somewhat doctored video that was shot last year, not last week. Still, it’s random enough to think that Brady and Edelman are up to something behind the scenes that they’re not telling us. But maybe this random post of a video of them playing ball together is them telling us something? Are we overthinking this? Let’s see what Rob Gronkowski has to say about it. It seems that, whatever Brady and Edelman are up to,

Gronkowski is also playing along. Gronk also re-posted the video of Brady throwing passes to Edelman, with a caption that read, “Is @Edelman11 making a comeback?? I sure hope so!!” Another “for what it’s worth,” Edelman went on to “like” Gronkowski’s tweet. There’s either absolutely nothing going on here, or there’s a whole heck of a lot going on here. There’s simply no in between. Not with posts like this. So, now for my analysis on the situation. My read? I think this is Brady and Gronkowski’s attempt to lure Edelman back onto the field, and to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers for the 2022 season. Edelman decided to play along, publicly, at least. And why wouldn’t he? Edelman is a free agent. He retired last April after the Patriots released him due to a failed physical, as he attempted to return from a knee injury that he suffered in 2020. His retirement announcement came in the form of an emotional video that he shot inside an empty Gillette Stadium, in which he said the wheels have “finally fallen off.” Robert Kraft and Bill Belichick

released statements praising Edelman, with Kraft calling him “one of the great success stories” in Patriot’s franchise history. The team also honored him at halftime of a game last season. And if you look at Edelman’s Twitter profile, the first thing you’ll see is a banner at the top of the page that shows Edelman in a Patriots uniform at Gillette Stadium, with the words “Thank You,” followed by his autograph, and a graphic that reads, “Foxboro Forever.” Does that mean he wouldn’t consider coming out of retirement to join Brady and Gronkowski in Tampa? Personally, I think he’d be a fool to not consider it. And while his loyalty to the Patriots organization is well documented and real, I don’t think that would be the deciding factor in his decision to ponder playing for the Buccaneers in 2022. That decision would probably — in my opinion — come down to his health, and whether or not he’d be able to pass a physical. If his knee can’t take it, then there’s no shot of Edelman playing for the Bucs. But let’s say he’s been on the TB12 method, and that his knee is feeling good. What then? Would he really

sign with Tampa Bay? Could he do such a thing while claiming to be “Foxboro Forever”? Of course, he could. What, you mean to tell me that Brady isn’t “Foxboro Forever”? In a few years, Brady will be back at Gillette Stadium having his No. 12 retired while his statue is unveiled in front of Patriot Place. If Edelman were to join forces with Brady and Gronkowski, it might sting for a little bit, but at the end of the day, he’ll still be “Foxboro Forever.” My little conspiracy theory here is that Edelman’s knee is feeling good, and he would love to play with Brady and Gronkowski in Tampa. But he can’t just come out and make it look like he’s the one making the attempt to jump ship to the Bucs. So, he’s having Brady and Gronkowski publicly recruit him. For the next month or so, we’ll see a few more of these posts, until we eventually see the post that reads, “Edelman signs one-year deal with Tampa Bay.” Brace yourself now, Patriots fans. It’s happening. Follow Danny on Instagram @DannyPicard.

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March 24, 2022

SPORTS TODAY

RED SOX Tweet SIGN STORY of the TO $140 Week MILLION DEAL

SBT Staff

he Boston Red Sox have added a new shortstop. Except, this new shortstop will be playing second base. Former Colorado Rockies slugger Trevor Story signed a six-year, $140 million deal with the Red Sox over the weekend. According to reports, the deal includes an opt-out after the fourth year, which can be removed if a seventh-year club option is exercised. If that seventh year of the deal is picked up, Story’s contract would be worth $160 million.

SOUTHBOSTONTODAY • www.southbostontoday.com

Story, 29, will not be replacing Boston’s current All-Star duo on the left side of the infield. Shortstop Xander Bogaerts and third baseman Rafael Devers are both staying put, according to Red Sox manager Alex Cora, essentially making Story the Red Sox’ new second baseman. The signing of Story will put all eyes on Bogaerts next offseason. Bogaerts, 29, can opt-out of his sixyear, $120 million after the upcoming 2022 season. If he continues to play the way he has, he’ll most likely want to be paid more than Story, who will now be making $3 million more

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per year than Bogaerts, if Bogaerts decides to play under this contract for the final three years of that deal. Back to Story though. The righthanded infielder spent his first six MLB seasons with the Rockies, and was named a National League All Star twice, in 2018 and 2019. Those were his two best seasons in the majors. In 2018, Story had 37 home runs and 108 RBI while hitting .291 with a .914 OPS. In 2019, he had 35 home runs and 85 RBI while hitting .294 with a .917 OPS. Last season, Story had 24 home runs and 75 RBI while hitting .251

with an .801 OPS. It should be noted that Story’s offensive numbers were much better at home-run-happy Coors Field in Denver, where the ball has been known to fly. In his six seasons with the Rockies, Story played in 375 games at home, and 370 games on the road. In those 375 games at Coors Field, Story hit 95 home runs, while in his 370 games away from Coors Field, he hit 63 home runs. But if you’re going to leave Denver, you might as well come play half your season hitting in front of Fenway’s Green Monster.

LINDHOLM TRADED TO BRUINS, GIVEN EIGHT-YEAR EXTENSION

SBT Staff

efense wins championships. The Boston Bruins are hoping that phrase rings true this year after acquiring topfour defenseman Hampus Lindholm in a trade with the Anaheim Ducks over the weekend, just days before the NHL trade deadline. The Bruins sent Anaheim a package that included defensemen Urho Vaakanainen and John Moore, a 2022 first-round draft pick, a 2023 second-round draft pick, and

a 2024 second-round draft pick. Also, the Ducks retained 50 percent of Lindholm’s $5.2 million cap hit for this season. Just a day after being acquired by the Bruins, Lindholm — who was scheduled to become a free agent at season’s end — signed an eight-year, $52 million extension with the B’s, which will pay him an average annual salary of $6.5 million. The deal includes a full no-trade clause for the first five years of the contract, and a modified no-trade clause in the final

three years, in the form of a 15team no-trade list. The 6-foot-4, 216 pound leftshot defenseman had 22 points on five goals and 17 assists in 61 games with the Ducks this season, averaging 22:32 of on-ice time. Lindholm has spent all nine of his NHL seasons in Anaheim, since being drafted by the Ducks with the No. 6 overall pick in the 2012 NHL Entry Draft. In his nine seasons with the Ducks, Lindholm tallied 222 points on 57 goals and 165 assists, and was

a +74 in 582 games. The Bruins also added another defenseman before Monday’s trade deadline, acquiring 28-year-old right-shot D-man Josh Brown in a trade with the Ottawa Senators. The B’s also received a 2022 seventhround pick, while sending forward Zach Senyshyn and a 2022 fifthround pick to the Senators. Brown is 6-foot-5, 217 pounds. He had six points — all assists — in 46 games with Ottawa this season, and is in the final year of his current contract.