South Boston Today June 22 2023

Disgusting Doesn’t Begin To Describe What Was Found On Old Colony Ave

The shocking news about what was found in an apartment on Old Colony Avenue in the Maryellen McCormack Development has stunned residents in every part of South Boston and beyond. The details are like something out of a horror movie, only worse.

According to reports filed by First Responders, including by police and fire department sources, this wasn’t gross fiction. It was real. As most know, First Responders were called to

the apartment for what they thought would be a routinemedical emergency. The call came in for a cardiac arrest. When they arrived, they found a dead male, six additional adults males said to be dressed as women. The place was unsanitary and alcohol, drugs and ‘sex toys’ were scattered about. But what was found next was worse – SO much worse. According to reports, in another room in the apartment were 4 young children, appearing to be between the ages of 5 and 10 years

old, allegedly being hidden from first responders by another adult, who sources say claimed to be the parent of these children.

The questions being asked is ‘what in hell is going on?’ What are the policies for screening applicants to move into city run public housing and for evictions? How could this happen? If what the reports say is accurate, and we have no reason to doubt them, what kind of people is the Boston Housing Authority allowing to move into the housing they

are charged with running? The other questions and the biggest and most important ones of all are - who are these children? Were they being abused? Were they victims of human/child trafficking? Were the adults in the apartment related to these children and if not, where are the parents? It isn’t an over-dramatization or exaggeration to call what was discovered sick or disgusting. Because if all that has been alleged is true and these children were abused or held captive, there

should be serious consequences for anyone and everyone involved in committing illegal acts and for those who, perhaps by negligence, enabled this to occur.

South Boston’s elected officials were quick to respond, and they should be commended for it. They were just as horrified and as angry as the rest of the neighborhood. The Boston Police and Boston Firefighters who moved in quickly, as well as every other first responder on the scene, should all be commended for their quick and professional efforts as well.

Priority in dealing with this should come in three forms.

1) The children found in that apartment and in those deplorable conditions should be taken care of immediately and made safe.

2) Whatever crimes were committed and those who committed them should be investigated and, if guilty, dealt with immediately and firmly – no slaps on the wrists. And 3) Real steps must be taken to find out how this happened, who was responsible for letting it happen and that nothing like this ever be allowed to happen again.

“Sunlight is what makes the day come alive. So have a day filled with sunshine.” - Anthony T. Hincks

Oh Yes, There Certainly Is A

After the Hunter Biden Fiasco the other day, if there is still anyone who can’t see that there is a two-tier justice system in America as far as the federal government is concerned, they either aren’t capable of grasping the reality of what’s happening, or they just don’t want to admit it. But luckily, most Americans now DO see it according to recent surveys.

If you’ve been following the news, you saw that little Hunter Biden was allowed to take a plea deal for tax evasion and illegal gun possession. These are crimes that other people, of every background are serving years in prison for and doing hard time. But Hunter was allowed to make a deal; a very generous deal and walk away with just 2 years probation. And, if he keeps clean for two years, he gets it all expunged from his record. Of course, he does – he’s Hunter. And if he commits more crimes in the meantime or is found guilty after all the other investigations going on about alleged criminal activity and all the money he’s been accepting from other countries, the odds are, he’ll get another sweet and ‘generous deal’. Why? Because he’s Hunter.

Texas Congressman Wesley Hunt, an African American, has had enough of the Bidens and their 2-tier system of justice. He spoke out in Congress a couple days ago and expressed outraged stating there are black men all around this country serving lengthy prison sentences for the exact same crimes that Hunter and other Democrat élites get a pass on. He’s absolutely right. He stated, “I’m tired of seeing this kind of discretion used to favor people like Biden because he’s the son of a President.” And it isn’t just black men being imprisoned for these crimes. There are

whites and Hispanics as well. Hunter entirely avoided charges for money laundering and allegedly violating the Foreign Agents Registration Act, according to The New York Post. What do you think would happen to any of us if we were involved in something like that?

Congresswoman from Wyoming, Harriet Hageman, stated in response to Hunter’s deal that the Justice Department has now been weaponized by Democrat politicians to protect people like the Bidens and the Clintons and other allies. They have also been weaponized to go after political opponents, much like what takes place in 3rd World banana republics. One only need look at the hounding and harassment that former President Donald Trump has been subjected to see that this is all political. And that yes indeed, there is a 2-tiered system of justice in this country and they are no longer even trying to hide it. Those playing politics and playing favorites and going after political opponents apparently now feel that they are so entrenched and powerful, that they can do whatever they want and there is nothing the American people can do about it. Are they right?

Moving to local issues - The effort to cut $31 million from the Boston Police Department budget and $900,000 from Veteran’s Services show just how much disdain the so called ‘Progressive’ members of the Boston City Council hold law enforcement and the military. Mayor Michelle Wu has said she will veto the budget with those drastic cuts. And if every one of the 5 councilors who voted against those cuts stay opposed, the veto will be sustained and the Progressives, referred to by many Boston residents as the ‘Crazies’, will not get what seems to be their wish to make Boston much

2-Tier System Of Justice

less safe. Well done to Councilors Ed Flynn (council president), Mike Flaherty, Erin Murphy, Frank Baker, and Gabriella Coletta for voting FOR saving the funding for police and for our veterans.

The seven councilors who voted against the police and the veterans – Anderson, Lara, Mejia, Worrell, Arroyo, Breadon and Louijeune do a great disservice to their constituents. They represent heavily minority districts in some cases. Most people in minority neighborhoods have made it crystal clear that they don’t want police resources cut. In fact, they want more police. But it seems these

councilors vote according to their leftist ideology rather than what their constituents want and what they need.

Here again is a perfect example of why voters need to pay close attention to how their elected representatives work and what their priorities are. They also need to remember them at the polls. If they continue to vote in the same people who ignore them, they should vote them out in the very next election. If they don’t, they have only themselves to blame if Boston goes the way of Chicago and Seattle and all the other Democrat run cities that foolishly cut police.

SOUTH BOSTON

Healey headed to Ireland next week in first overseas visit

Gov. Maura Healey will address the Irish Senate next week in her first international travel as governor that also feature a series of business and commerce events alongside two Cabinet secretaries and other state officials, reports Alison Kuznitz for State House News Service. Healey’s trip to Dublin coincides with Ireland’s 30-year anniversary of decriminalizing homosexuality and the 60th-anniversary of President John F. Kennedy’s visit to the country.

Bar fight: Boston pub countersues Washington pub with same name demanding it change its name

The Dubliner in Center Plaza downtown won’t give up its name without a fight, reports Universal Hub. The Boston pub filed a countersuit today against an older Dubliner pub in Washington, DC that is demanding the Boston bar change its name. The DC Dubliner filed a trademark-infringement suit against the Boston Dubliner, which opened last year where the Kinsale used to

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.

be. In its countersuit, filed in US District Court in Boston, the Boston Dubliner said, basically: Have you looked around at how many other bars already use the Dubliner name? Spoiler alert: It’s a lot.

Coming through: Boston mayor defends using police lights, sirens ahead of crash

Boston Mayor Michelle Wu defended the use of police lights and sirens ahead of a crash on city streets two weeks ago, saying it is “standard practice” for emergency lights and sirens to be activated when transporting dignitaries through traffic, reports Gayla Cawley for The Boston Herald. The mayor said the police officer driving came to a complete stop at the intersection prior to going through a red light before the crash occurred.

Search ongoing for missing submersible on Titanic tourist venture

A glimmer of hope in the ongoing search for a missing submersible carrying five people on a tourist venture to view the Titantic wreck was captured by a Cana -

2023 MA DEMOCRATIC CAUCUS

dian military surveillance aircraft, reports The Boston Globe. Underwater noises were detected, but the U.S. Coast Guard did not elaborate on what rescuers believed the noises could be.

Working seniors could get bigger property tax credits

Older Massachusetts homeowners could be eligible to take more off of their property tax bills under a provision included in the Senate’s relief proposal, reports Christian Wade for The Eagle Tribune. The changes would bump the allowable tax credit maximum from $1,500 up to $2,000 a year for working seniors.

Massachusetts National Guardsman accused of leaking docs in court

The former Massachusetts National Guardsman accused of leaking highly classified military documents online faces arraignment today, reports Travis Anderson for The Boston Globe. Jack Douglas Teixeira, 21, is slated for arraignment Wednesday in federal court in Worcester. He has been held without bail since his arrest in April. Teixeira was indicted

last week by a federal grand jury in Boston on six counts of willful retention and transmission of national defense information.

Mass Pike project could mean economic gains as far as Worcester, say business leaders

A multi-billion-dollar effort to rebuild and straighten the Mass. Pike as it passes through Allston could help spur economic growth 35 miles away in Worcester in addition to the 11 million square feet of development it could spur in Boston, reports James Sanna for Banker & Tradesman. And that could give the state a leg up on its latest attempt at securing the federal funding necessary for such an ambitious project.

Woman posed as student at 3 Boston schools

Police are investigating after Boston Public Schools administrators became suspicious and discovered a woman had enrolled in three BPS high schools in the last school year in a scheme using multiple pseudonyms and transfers, a letter to families said.

The Ward 6 & Ward 7 Democratic Committees will be holding a joint Caucus to elect delegates to this year’s MA Democratic State Convention.

The Caucus will take place at 9:00am Saturday, June 24, 2023 at Ironworkers Local Union 7 located at 195 Old Colony Avenue, South Boston, MA.

Boston Common Frog Pond Spray Pool Opens June 27

Mayor Michelle Wu, Boston Parks Commissioner Ryan Woods, and The Skating Club of Boston are pleased to welcome children and their caregivers to kick off the 2023 summer wading season as the Boston Common Frog Pond spray pool reopens on Tuesday, June 27.

The opening of the wading pool is made possible by title sponsor Bank of America and presenting sponsors College H.U.N.K.S. Hauling Junk & Moving and H.P. Hood LLC. The event will include a fun and exciting celebration at 11 a.m. followed by the opening of the spray pool.

In addition to activities from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., residents can enjoy tasty treats and a visit from official mascot Frog Pond Freddie. Contributing sponsors include Polar Beverages, New England Dairy Council, Alamo Drafthouse Cinema, and SourCan, with additional support

from PROJECT Melanoma.

Also participating will be the Boston Police ice cream truck, Mass Audubon, the Boston Public Library Chinatown Branch, Read Boston, and Science from Scientists. For more information visit www.boston.gov/ frog-pond-opening.

A year-round recreational facility, the Frog Pond offers ice skating in the winter, a spray pool and supervised wading for youth in the summer, and the Carousel from spring through fall. Information on additional activities offered at the Frog Pond can be found by visiting www.bostonfrogpond.com.

The Frog Pond spray pool is open daily from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. until Labor Day. The facility is managed by The Skating Club of Boston and staffed by youth workers from the Boston Youth Fund. For further information, please call the Frog Pond at (617) 635-2120.

To stay up to date with news, events, and design and construction work in Boston Parks, sign up for our email list at bit.ly/Get-Parks-Emails and follow our social channels @bostonparksdept on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.

Mayor’s Garden Contest Deadline July 12

Mayor Michelle Wu has announced the 27th annual Mayor’s Garden Contest highlighting the hard work of Boston’s urban gardeners. The competition provides the perfect opportunity to recognize the skills of all Boston residents who contribute to the beauty of the city’s landscape.

Boston’s green thumbs have until 11:59 p.m. on Wednesday, July 12, to submit their gardens for award contention. The contest recognizes gardeners who have landscaped, planted flowers, trees, shrubs, and, in the process, helped beautify Boston’s neighborhoods.

Gardeners or those nominating their favorite gardeners may find printable and online nomination forms at boston. gov/mayors-garden-contest. The preferred method of entry is to submit photos through the online application. Alternatively, contestants may request an application by emailing their name and address to gardencontest@boston.gov. Paper applications are also available in English and ten additional languages.

Judges will fan out across the city visiting finalists the week of July 24. Once the votes

Don’t Miss Out Free and Open to Public

Events Held Across The RCC Campus!

This two-day forum gives our community an opportunity to heal, prioritize wellness, and get moving! Featuring panel discussions, town hall forums, athletic events, and more, friends and supporters of all ages are invited to attend.   More details coming soon – including the full schedule for the Day of Play on September 30, from 1:00 pm – 6:00 pm.

are tallied, first place winners will receive the coveted “Golden Trowel” award from Mayor Wu while second and third place winners will be awarded certificates.

Gardeners who have won three or more times in the last ten years will be automatically entered into the Hall of Fame. These distinguished Hall-of-Famers are not eligible to enter as contestants but are invited to return as judges.

First place winners are eligible for a drawing for a JetBlue Grand Prize consisting of roundtrip flights for two to any nonstop destination from Boston. Terms, conditions, and blackout dates apply. In addition, Mahoney’s Garden Centers will provide gardener’s gift bags to the top three winners in each category, as well as gift certificates for the 2023 Hall of Fame winners.

Stay up to date with the Mayor’s Garden Contest as well as news, events, and design and construction work in Boston parks by calling (617) 635-4505, signing up for our email list at bit.ly/GetParks-Emails, and following our social channels @bostonparksdept on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.

I Was Just Thinking…

by Kevin Devlin

Iwas talking to Beverly McDonald, a lifelong friend from Savin Hill. Because I was thinking about writing a story on the driving etiquette of fellow citizens, I asked her how she felt about the subject. Below is what she subsequently wrote to me: “Recently I stopped at the crosswalk (it is the law in this state) leading into the YMCA parking lot in Quincy.

Several people, including a disabled person who was probably going to her appointment at Spaulding, as well as the cycling teacher (who is the mother to three little boys) were walking in this crosswalk. It’s a busy place. Apparently, I pissed off the young man behind me and he started yelling out the window at me. It seems that according to him, I should’ve run over the disabled person and mowed down the other people in the crosswalk. He must have been in a rush to ‘pump iron’ and maybe ‘stretch his quads’ before going to the dry cleaners, maybe Chipotle for a sandwich, or Home Depot to buy a wrench.

It got me thinking. Why all the rage out there in the driving world? Was I supposed to kill and possibly maim these people in the crosswalk, then spend the rest of my life in jail to placate this impatient, inconsiderate, and rude young man.

Fast forward a few days later and now I was leaving the

YMCA after my class. I guess when I was looking both ways to make sure I didn’t pull out in front of a bus or another car, I took too long. The man in the car behind me leaned on his horn, and as I took the right, he blew by me for thirty yards up to the car wash to get his car cleaned. He was only going to the car wash, why the rush? I’m not intimidated in the least, but am I just a perfect target being a sixty-five-year-old small woman in a car? I wonder if I was a two-hundred-pound man in a Ford F150, would these cowards behave this way?

Why is everyone so angry, impatient, and in a hurry to go nowhere? Stupidity has replaced manners and courtesy, and cowardice has replaced basic human respect, which is now the norm.”

So, it’s obvious Beverly isn’t a happy camper when it comes to this issue, but she is just one of many.

Not only are drivers angry and inconsiderate, they’re not very bright and drive much faster than they should.

“I was driving on the expressway and this guy was tailgating a state trooper,” said Joe Finn, a friend from my working days in the Boston School Police and the Boston Public Health Commission.

“The trooper put on his lights and the driver slowed down,” Finn stated. “Further up along the road, the same driver was once

again tailgating the same trooper. The trooper put on his lights but this time he signaled the driver to pull over.

“I drive a lot every day,” Finn concluded. “People drive above the speed limit and it’s crazy out there, believe me it is.”

Let’s face it.

Many people drive faster than the designated speed limit. They tailgate.

Most don’t give other drivers a break.

And if you give them a break, God forbid they wave back acknowledging the consideration.

So, why are so many drivers in such a hurry?

Why so impatient?

Why so inconsiderate?

Why drive so fast?

Why can’t they think of others and slow down a bit for the safety of others?

Is it misplaced anger due to the fact our so-called political leaders have failed to unite us, yet have succeeded in dividing us even more so?

It’s certainly one possibility (among others since accidents are on the rise) yet the bottom line is it’s our moral duty, ours alone, to act in a responsible and diligent manner when driving.

And watch out for others, whether they are driving or pedestrians.

Otherwise, it could be someone you love who may suffer deadly consequences from such careless behavior as evidenced every day on our roadways.

Project Description:

The Proponent is proposing to construct a new four (4) story, twenty-one (21) unit residential rental building with garage parking for twenty-one (21) vehicles at 27 Farragut Road in South Boston.

Cllr.Flynn Hosting Virtual Veterans Town Hall

Boston City Council President Ed Flynn will host a virtual Veterans Town Hall this Friday, June 23, 2023 at 3pm on Zoom. The Town Hall is organized in light of the City Council’s passage of the amended FY24 budget, which voted 7-5 in favor of cutting over $31 million in public safety services, as well as a $900,000 cut from the Office of Veterans Services.

The Veterans Town Hall will focus on listening to the needs of the Boston Veterans community and the challenges they face, walk through the array of important services and benefits the City’s Office of Veterans Services provides, and explain why these are vital to the physical, mental well-being of our veterans, women veterans, and military families.

“When we send our military into harm’s way, we have a duty to look

after them when they return as veterans, learn about the issues affecting them, and advocate for better care and support for them and their families,” said Council President Flynn. “The current $900,000 cut to the Office of Veterans Services will have a devastating impact on our veterans and military families. Our veterans have served our country with honor and bravery, and it is never a good time to cut services they depend on. We, as a City, must do better to ensure that our veterans and women veterans are able to continue to receive services related to disability and health care benefits, mental health resources, and PTSD support, among others.”

For more information, please contact Council President Flynn’s office at 617-635-3203 and Ed.Flynn@ Boston.gov.

Massport will host a hybrid information session (in-person and virtually) to provide an overview of the topics that will be included in the upcoming 2022 Boston Logan International Airport ESPR. These topics include: ground transportation, activity levels/ forecasting, aircraft noise, air quality, regional transportation, and airport planning. This information session will be streamed in English and Spanish.

The hybrid information session will take place:

Monday, June 26, 2023 at 6:00 P.M.

Cathy Leonard-McLean Community Room

Logan Airport’s Rental Car Center* 15 Transportation Way East Boston, MA 02128

To access the meeting link and for more information, please visit: www.massport.com/logan-airport/about-logan/ environmental-reports/

*Limited parking is available at the front parking lot of the Rental Car Center; Access also available via the MBTA Blue Line Airport Station and Massport bus.

Additional languages for the Public Information Session on the 2022 Boston Logan International Airport Environmental Status and Planning Report will be available upon request; requests for additional languages are due by Thursday, June 22, 2023. For more information or to request translation services please contact community@massport.com.

Pueden solicitarse servicios de interpretación en otros idiomas para la sesión informativa pública sobre el Informe de Estado Medioambiental y Planificación del Aeropuerto Internacional de Boston Logan; las solicitudes de otros idiomas deben enviarse antes del jueves 22 de junio de 2023. Para obtener más información o para solicitar servicios de interpretación, escriba a community@massport.com.

Lang adisyonèl pou Sesyon Enfòmasyon Piblik sou Planifikasyon ak Rapò Sitiyasyon Anviwònman Ayewopò Entènasyonal Boston Logan pou ane 2022 a ap disponib sou demann, ou dwe fè demann pou lòt lang yo anvan jedi 22 jen 2023. Pou plis enfòmasyon oswa pou mande sèvis tradiksyon, tanpri, kontakte community@massport.com.

Outros idiomas para a Sessão de Informação ao Publico sobre o Relatório do Planejamento e Situação Ambiental de 2022 do Aeroporto Internacional de Logan em Boston serão disponibilizados mediante solicitação. O prazo para o pedido de idiomas adicionais terminará na quinta-feira, dia 22 de junho de 2023. Para obter mais informações ou solicitar serviços de tradução, contate community@massport.com.

https://us06web zoom us/j/85312144561?

pwd=bC9Ua093WlJ2OHJLRjBpYm94ZVhVdz09

Meeting ID: 853 1214 4561

Passcode: 509766

Tiếng Việt Các ngôn ngữ thêm cho Phiên Thông Tin Công Cộng về Tường Trình Hoạch Định và Trạng Thái Môi Trường của Phi Trường Quốc Tế Boston Logan năm 2022 sẽ có sẵn theo yêu cầu; yêu cầu thêm ngôn ngữ phải có trước Thứ Năm, ngày 22 tháng 6 năm 2023. Để biết thêm thông tin hoặc để yêu cầu dịch vụ dịch thuật, hãy liên hệ community@massport.com.

Boston Logan International Airport 2022 ENVIRONMENTAL STATUS & PLANNING REPORT (ESPR)

Guy The Wine

Commonwealth Grapes

As many of you might know, there are four states in the country that began life as Commonwealths-Massachusetts, Kentucky, Virginia, and Pennsylvania. In theory, all settlers were supposed to assist in the planting and harvesting of various crops; after the harvest, fruits, grains and vegetables were given equally to all. In practice, though, it didn’t go as smoothly as the idealistic planners had hoped. Many were of little help in planting and tending the crops, yet all were lined up to reap the bounty. Eventually, this experiment faded, but one of the most popular items was wine.

Today, in the Commonwealth of Virginia, scores of vineyards and wineries make a wide range of different wines; many go back to the time of Washington and Jefferson, who were two of the more prominent planters. As we come up on the Fourth of July, you should consider the following for taste and tradition…

Barboursville Vermentino Reserve,2021, ($28.99), a dry white wine made from Vermentino grapes, was chosen for the 2023 Virginia Governor’s Case. The wine has vivid citrusy aromatics with a deep, dry palate, excellent body, and a sustained structure. With a luscious minerality, this flavorful white wine pairs perfectly with fish and other seafood dishes.

50 West Vineyards, Middleburg, 2020 Petit Manseng, ($35.99). Located in the bucolic hills outside of Middleburg, 50 West Vineyards is named for the historic Route 50, which spans the entire country from Maryland to California, along which the winery resides. This beauty is a gorgeous white wine that displays a wonderful balance between acid and sweetness. Notes include mango, ripe pineapple, peach, baked apple, and

caramel, with a hint of lemon zest and candied fruit. Petit Manseng is a white wine variation of the black Manseng grape, and it gets its name from its small berries. It features rich aromas of candied fruit and spice which are often complemented with flavors of honey, nuts, and pineapple.

A big, flavorful red from Culpeper’s Mountain Run Winery, the 2021 Petit Verdot, ($45.99) is full of stone fruit flavors and has a lovely tannic finish. Pair it with a nice, rare steak or other savory meats for an unforgettable dining experience. Established in 2015, Mountain Run Winery is a fairly new addition to the Virginia wine scene, but their win in the 2023 Virginia Governor’s Cup Case shows that they are already creating high-quality vintages. The family-owned farm winery is located just outside of downtown Culpeper, and prides itself on smallbatch, distinctive wines, ciders, and meads. Mountain Run’s tasting rooms are built in a remodeled 1960s corn crib and a 100-year-old horse barn, blending seamlessly with the rural countryside found in this Central Virginia region. Light, prepared foods, like cheese and charcuterie, are available in the tasting room, but

you can also pack your own picnic to dine in the charming natural settings of the property.

Eastwood Farm and Winery is a women-owned, family-operated farm winery in Charlottesville, Virginia, spanning four generations of women making award-winning wines and ciders that reflect the terroir and the long history of grape growing and winemaking in Virginia. Recognized as a Monticello Wine Trail winery, and located along the ridgeline with Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello, Eastwood bridges the gap between old and new. Eastwood is focused on the development of sustainable viticulture in Virginia and on building an East Coast wine brand whose production rivals wineries in California, Oregon, and around the world.

Eastwood Vineyards, Sparkling Blanc de Blancs, ($39.99) A delicious Virginia Sparkling Brut, the Eastwood Blanc de Blancs is dry and crisp with notes of almond and lemon zest. Perfect for any night and great for celebrations! The Body is light and effervescent, while the Acidity is light to medium, very smooth with lemon zest and other citrus notes. A perfect Toast to the Fourth!

“The Kennedy Library Forum hosted Irish Tánaiste, Micheál Martin, TD at The JFK Library. The TD discussed Irish-US relations and key global issues. In the photo are Jim Brett, President and CEO of The New England Council and Board member of the John F. Kennedy Library and The Honorable Micheál Martin.”

The Boston City Council votes to accept or reject the Mayor’s Budget on Wednesday, June 28. Make those phone calls and send those emails to the YES councilors. A 2/3 vote of 8-4 will pass.

Veterans and City Services budgets will be severely slashed.

Harry McDonough Sailing Center Celebrates 50 Years!

Last Thursday, The Harry McDonough Sailing Center held its annual fundraiser and sign up for the 2023 season. Southie’s own Thomas Park was entertaining the crowd with their amazing talent, we know they never

disappoint and Papa George LoCascio was making magic on the grill feeding the guests and volunteers. While the program is instructional and social, the program pays it forward. The sign up registers children who are interested in learning

to sail building on teamwork and making friends. As they age out, they often become summer workers and then as we saw last Thursday, they come back as volunteers and supporters. Harry would be proud. Special shout out to the Board,

sponsors, elected officials and leadership teams. Happy Sailing and Happy Summer 2023.

*Contributions and donations can be made to Harry McDonough Sailing Center, PO Box 354 – South Boston, MA 02127.

pandemic levels once again and have nearly doubled over the last year. A recent analysis of Massachusetts Housing Court data by The Boston Globe found that eviction filings have almost doubled from last year ahead of the expiration of Chapter 257, with state landlords filing nearly 5,000 cases in January and February of this year, compared to just over 2,5000 the year before.

Both tenants and landlords were in agreement with Chapter 257 as long as there was rental aid to pay the bills for tenants who could not. But now that this aid is slowly shrinking it could make it harder to evict and replace them with new tenants who can pay. Lawmakers filed legislation to make Chapter 257 permanent and filed an amendment to the supplemental budget seeking another extension, but those proposals had made little headway at that time. Strapped renters hoping for relief will have to settle for another BandAid for now as the long-simmering housing crisis in Massachusetts — by virtually every measure — only gets worse.

Lawmakers are likely to revive the expired pandemic-era policy preventing evictions of renters in arrears who have active applications for rental assistance. Both the House and Senate budgets propose making permanent the policy known as Chapter 257 — all but guaranteeing

the measure will pass in a final budget bill currently being hashed out in closed-door conference committee negotiations. Landlords and housing advocates alike have called the revival of Chapter 257 another “Band-Aid” for a problem in need of universal solutions. But it’s the only reprieve coming anytime soon for renters in need of immediate help. If passed in the budget, it would go into effect alongside next year’s spending plan for the fiscal year that begins July 1.

Comprehensive housing relief will take longer, state Sen. Lydia Edwards, who co-chairs the Legislature’s Joint Committee on Housing, recently told MASSterList. “We are not moving individual bills like we used to. These are complicated issues. There is no single solution,” Edwards said. Hinting at the type of omnibus reform bill that’s become synonymous with the way of doing business on Beacon Hill, wholesale housing relief is months away at best. Edwards said her committee will take the rest of the year to conduct hearings and vet the 158 bills before them — spanning rent control, real estate sales taxes and more.

It’s a timeline that worries advocates like Gabriela Cartagena of Vida Urbana. “This is urgent housing policy that we need now,” she said. The Bay State is now considered the thirdmost expensive for renters in the nation. And — as affordable housing

advocates predicted — eviction filings are climbing. Eviction filings in Massachusetts housing courts so far this year are roughly double what was seen last year, according to a review of the most recent available court data. Citing nonpayment, landlords lodged more than 2,000 of the filings that trigger eviction proceedings last month. The uptick started just ahead of the expiration of Chapter 257 on March 31. Cartegena said all eyes are on Gov. Maura Healey’s new Housing Secretary Ed Augustus — the commonwealth’s first cabinet-level official dedicated to the issue in three decades.

The Small Property Owners Association (SPOA) agrees that all stakeholders should cooperate in resolving the housing issue. Evictions are already a last resort for many rental property owners. Even before COVID-19, the long duration of eviction proceedings imposed considerable trauma and expense on owners seeking to regain possession of their properties – when they had no other choice. During the pandemic, owners were encouraged to make flexible payment arrangements with their tenants to help both parties. In some cases, this worked. But in other cases, tenants decided not to pay rent, while refusing to talk to their housing providers.

The Winn Companies, for example, reported that many tenants refused to work with them to resolve

their debts, despite the company’s repeated efforts – thereby prompting continued eviction proceedings for those who didn’t cooperate. While Winn was able to help many other tenants avoid eviction, many Small Property Owners don’t have the flexibility to offer the extensive supports of larger businesses like Winn.

The government’s efforts to provide aid were helpful, but the delayed implementation and progression of the RAFT program made it more difficult for housing providers to keep their heads above water. Legislators were quick to protect tenants from eviction, but not as quick to throw a lifeline to property owners. Many housing providers struggled to house their tenants without support – and they were never made whole. Funding for RAFT is expected to dwindle, as well.

According to SPOA, making Chapter 257 permanent will not serve as the “drawbridge” to a more humane housing system. The pandemic emergency is over, so why revive it? Instead of extending outdated policies, SPOA is pushing to increase housing production and create needs-based rental aid programs, where property owners receive the funds directly. For a more fair and humane housing system, respecting the rights and the dignity of rental property owners is necessary, in order to ultimately protect housing providers and tenants alike.

South Boston Catholic Academy News End of the Year Highlights

2022-2023 has been another fabulous school year here at South Boston Catholic Academy!

Ms. Keough’s students in Grade 2A celebrated the last day of school with a Red Carpet Award Ceremony. They were so excited to receive their awards! In Ms. Monaghan’s STEM class, the third and fourth grade students built a cardboard arcade. They started off this unit by watching the video “Caine’s Arcade”. It truly is an amazing story! In order for the students to showcase all of their hard work, they hosted a Caine’s Arcade Day of Play in the school cafeteria on Monday, June 12th. Each teacher signed up for a time to bring their students down to the cafeteria in order to play the games third and fourth grade built. The students

worked very hard on their projects and were really excited to allow everyone a chance to play them! The third and fourth graders did an outstanding job with this STEM class project!

The First Graders in Ms. McCarthy, Ms. Byrne and Ms. Gannon’s first grade class enjoyed walking to Farragut Park for the Teddy Bear Picnic. The children ate their lunch, read with friends, listened to stories read by their teachers, and played on the playground. It was a beautiful sunny day enjoyed by all!

Our Annual Field Day, organized by Ms. Brogan, the Physical Education Teacher, was a big hit with the students. Students were placed on teams led by our 6th Graders. The team colors were Red, Orange, Navy, Tie Dye, Lime

Green, Purple, White, Gray, Light Blue, Yellow, Pink and Dark Green. Some of the games they played were…

Tug of War, Tic Tac Toe, Bean Bag Toss, Egg Relay Sponge Relay, Beach Ball, Water Balloon and Sack Race.

“A Reflection of Team Spirit, Coming together is a beginning; keeping together is progress, working together is success.” by Henry Ford.

Students in K1 became published authors this school year! They brainstormed topics to write about, picked one topic, illustrated the pictures and wrote the words! Then we sent it off to the publisher!

The title of the book Ms. Hope’s students published is entitled: “When I Grow Up” by K1A.

The title of the book Ms. Courtney’s students published is entitled: “What Lives under the Rainbow” by K1C The title of the book Ms. Erin’s students published is entitled: “When I Grow Up” by K1D. The

students were so excited to become published authors!

Much to their families and teachers’ amazement and delight, the K1 students did an outstanding job as authors and illustrators.

As we mark the end of another great school year here at SBCA, we wish everyone a Healthy and Happy Summer! Let’s keep our school prayer that we start with each day at school in our hearts and minds. ---

Dear God, Thank you for creating us and giving us this day, help us grow in faith and show respect in every way. We welcome all people into our school family with care, Work hard in all subjects, have patience, and share. Guild us as we do our best to lead and learn today, and celebrate as proud students of SBCA.

New families are welcome to email our admissions team at: admissions@ sbcatholicacademy.org for more info about South Boston Catholic Academy.

The NBA Draft is this week, and we already know who’s going No. 1 overall. It’s Victor Wembanyama, a 19-year-old, 7-foot-5 French prospect. Yes, you read that right. He’s 7-foot-5.

And it’s not like he’s a 7-foot-5 center who lives in the paint. He can get out and defend guards, and on offense, you’ll even see him taking fadeaway jumpers from outside.

Bottom line, Wembanyama isn’t your traditional big man. And mostly every scouting report uses the same word to describe him: a unicorn. Wembanyama has some calling him the greatest prospect the NBA has ever seen. Personally, I wouldn’t go that far, only because I can remember watching LeBron James’ high school games on ESPN. Some of us just found out about Wembanyama shortly before the San Antonio Spurs won the NBA Draft Lottery to acquire the No. 1 overall pick. So, let’s pump the brakes on calling him “the greatest prospect of all time.”

He will be drafted by the Spurs with the No. 1 overall pick though. And so, let the Tim Dun -

can comparisons begin.

As for the Boston Celtics, as of the morning before the Draft, they only have one pick this year, in the second round, at No. 35 overall. They traded their firstround pick to the Indiana Pacers last summer as part of a package that landed them point guard Malcolm Brogdon. There have been rumors that the C’s are trying to package Payton Pritchard with the No. 35 overall pick in order to move up into the first round this year. Perhaps a deal similar to that is done by the time you see this. Either way, this year’s draft is all about Wembanyama and the San Antonio Spurs.

—A story that I feel has flown a little under the radar is Lionel Messi deciding to take his talents to South Beach.

That’s right, one of the best soccer players in the world has reportedly signed a deal to finish his career here in the United States, in MLS, for Inter Miami CF. And he’s apparently planning on joining the team as early as this summer. The deal must not be finalized yet though, because if you go to Inter Miami’s website, there’s absolutely nothing

about Messi. Not even a photo of him. So that’s either the worst marketing decision in the history of marketing, or, there are a few legal issues that need to be worked out still. But that didn’t stop Major League Soccer from posting a statement on social media back on June 7, when the deal was first reported.

The MLS statement read: “We are pleased that Lionel Messi has stated that he intends to join Inter Miami and Major League Soccer this summer. Although work remains to finalize a formal agreement, we look forward to welcoming one of the greatest soccer players of all time to our league.” Messi’s contract with Paris SaintGermain expires on June 30. The club has already announced that Messi is moving on from them. The latest reports of Messi’s deal with Inter Miami say he’ll also be signing deals with Apple and Adidas — two of MLS’ biggest commercial partners — and he’ll have the option to purchase a minority stake in the club, which is partially owned by former star David Beckham.

This week, on the MLS website, a story was posted that

included quotes from Inter Miami CEO and managing owner, Jorge Mas, who described the impact Messi will have on MLS. “I think there will always be a before and after Messi when we talk about the sport in the United States,” Mas told local reporters this week. “I have a very, very strong-held belief that we can create in North America and the United States if not the greatest league, one of the top two leagues in the world. I cannot over-emphasize the magnitude of this [moment].

“It is, I think, a tremendous and unprecedented opportunity that we have ahead of us,” added Mas. “And I think that all of us collectively will take the right steps to make sure to put this league in the hyper-growth that it deserves.” Well, first thing’s first. I think it’s time for the Inter Miami website to acknowledge Messi’s expected arrival, especially if the club’s ownership is discussing it publicly on the league’s website.

Pretty big story to ignore if you ask me.

Follow Danny on instagram @ DannyPicard.

This week, Danny shared his thoughts on some of the top stories in the sports world:

PATRIOTS’ JONES ARRESTED, PLEADS NOT GUILTY TO WEAPONS CHARGES

New England Patriots cornerback Jack Jones was arrested last week at Logan Airport for attempting to bring two firearms onto a plane.

Two guns and ammunition were found inside a bag with Jones’ name on it, when Jones brought his carry-on luggage through airport security.

Jones, 25, has been charged with possession of a concealed weapon in a secure area of an airport, possession of ammunition without a firearm identification card, unlawful possession of a firearm, carrying a loaded firearm, and possession of a large capacity feeding device.

He was arraigned at East Boston Municipal Court this week, and was released on $30,000 cash bail while pleading not guilty. Jones is scheduled to appear in court on Aug. 18 for a probable cause hearing.

The Patriots’ second preseason game is the following day, on Saturday, Aug. 19 in Green Bay.

Tweet of the Week

As expected, the Patriots organization didn’t have much to say following Jones’ arrest last week.

“We have been notified that Jack Jones was arrested at Logan Airport earlier [Friday],” a spokesperson for the Patriots told the media last week. “We are in the process of gathering more information and will not be commenting further at this time.”

Two of the charges against Jones carry a mandatory prison sentence of two-and-a-half years, if indicted and convicted. Two of the other charges carry a mandatory minimum sentence of 18 months.

Jones’ attorney, Rosemary Scapicchio spoke outside the courtroom following Tuesday’s arraignment, and she strongly defended her client, while attempting to blame everyone else for portraying Jones as a “thug.”

“All Mr. Jones wants to do is play football,” Scapicchio said.

“He doesn’t want to be a distraction at all. He wants to support his family and play football. That’s his goal here. But everyone turned him into this thug, this wannabe gangster with no evidence whatsoever.

“We’re suggesting you do your research before you start writing like that,” added Scapicchio. “In

this case, we’re grateful to the Patriots organization and to the leaders of the Patriots that they didn’t believe and read in, and feed into, what was happening on social media where people were saying he was a wannabe thug and he was trying to get the guns past security. Nothing can be further from the truth. That’s not what happened in this case and I suggest we wait to hear all of the evidence before people jump to a conclusion.”

As of midweek, Jones is still a member of the Patriots. Though, The Athletic’s Jeff Howe reported that the organization is “livid.”

And rightfully so. Jones is entering his second NFL season after being drafted by New England in the fourth round of last year’s NFL Draft, out of Arizona State.

Now, Jones could potentially face more than 30 years in prison.

“If he were convicted and sentenced consecutively on each charge, he’d face more than 30 years in prison,” James Borghesani, a spokesman for the office of Suffolk District Attorney Kevin R. Hayden, told The Boston Globe.

Regardless of the outcome, right now, it’s not a good look for Jones, who was suspended at the end of his rookie season for

an unspecified violation of team rules. During spring practices, Jones was back working with the top defensive unit.

Jones’ attorney is blaming both social media and the news media for how this situation is being portrayed to the public.

“It’s the social media, and the media, who have turned him into a thug, who have labeled him a thug, with no evidence whatsoever,” said Scapicchio. “Because he’s a young Black man, all of a sudden, he’s a thug. That’s what happened here. It’s disrespectful to Mr. Jones and every other Black man in America. This is the institutional racism we deal with every day in the court system . . . That label that was attached to him through social media almost got him fired, and it was completely unfounded.

“The Patriots fans who support the Patriots? I suggest they continue to support Mr. Jones,” added Scapicchio. “He wants nothing more than to work, do his job, and earn a living. That’s all he wants. This is an accusation. Last I checked in this country, he’s presumed innocent unless and until he’s proven guilty by a jury beyond a reasonable doubt. This is an accusation. Plain and simple that’s all it is.”

SBT Staff

Boston Harborfest Announces Schedule for June 30 - July 4

Entertainment, parades, and historic reenactments return to Nation’s largest Fourth of July Festival

doo-wop, puppetry, and more.

Saturday, July 1

Live Performances and Historical Reenactments

11:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.: The Steps at Downtown Crossing

An array of local performances across all musical genres will perform from a stage in Downtown Crossing, free and for all to enjoy. Also, step back in history as living historians demonstrate life in colonial America. Fife and drums corps, military exercises and colonial crafts all add to the excitement.

Crossing, while historical re-enactors and costumed entertainers will engage with visitors to the area. Free for all to enjoy!

Tuesday, July 4

The City of Boston’s 247th Independence Day Celebration

9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.

Boston Harborfest is proud to release its preliminary event schedule for 2023, spanning five days at locations throughout Downtown Boston. As the nation’s largest Fourth of July Festival, Boston Harborfest brings arts, music, and entertainment to land and sea for thousands of Boston’s residents and visitors.

The summer tradition kicks off from The Steps at Downtown Crossing (Washington St. at Franklin St.) with music and remarks from Mayor of Boston Michelle Wu at 12:00 p.m. on Friday, June 30, and continues through Tuesday, July 4 with historical programming for all to enjoy. The latest schedule of performances, events, and partner events can be found at www.bostonharborfest.com.

For more Harborfest information and the latest of activities, please visit www.bostonharborfest.com, and follow event updates on Harborfest’s Facebook page, @BOSHarborfest on Twitter, @bostonharborfest on Instagram, or follow the conversation using #BostonHarborfest

2023 Boston Harborfest Schedule

Times subject to change - For the latest schedule, visit www.bostonharborfest.com

Friday, June 30 Harborfest Kick-Off

12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.: The Steps at Downtown Crossing (Washington St. and Franklin St.)

A public kick-off with public officials and hospitality leaders will help launch Boston Harborfest 2023. Roving re-enactors and staff from the USS Constitution will engage visitors, while the Massachusetts 215th Army Band plays an afternoon of performances.

DTX Arts and Crafts Market (Summer Street Plaza)

11:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.: Summer Street in Downtown Crossing

This free and vibrant arts market will showcase local artists and craftsmen.

DTX Musical Performances

11:30 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.: The Steps at Downtown Crossing

A range of musical performers will bring brass,

Macy’s Great American Fashion Show

2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.: The Steps at Downtown Crossing Amateur models who are Boston citizens show off the latest trends in summer fashion as Macy’s curates new lines and sleek looks.

Pre-Fireworks Concert

6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.: Christopher Columbus Park

A dynamic lineup of musical performances will perform for audiences from the lawn at Christopher Columbus Park before the evening’s fireworks

Harborfest Fireworks

9:15 p.m.: Long Wharf – Boston Inner Harbor

Visible from nearly all of Boston Harbor, the Harborfest Fireworks return to provide a spectacular display for all to enjoy. The fireworks will be launched from a barge at Boston’s Long Wharf.

Sunday, July 2

Live Performances & Entertainment

12:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.: Downtown Crossing

An array of local performances across all musical genres will perform throughout Downtown Crossing, while historical re-enactors and costumed entertainers engage with visitors to the area.

Patriotic Poochapalooza

12:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.: Summer Street, Downtown Crossing Dogs and their humans vie for prizes as guest judges crown winners in several categories including the Most Patriotic Pooch. A Doggie Marketplace and free treats for all.

Christopher Columbus Park Concert

1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.: Christopher Columbus Park

A range of musical performances will fill the harborside park for all to enjoy.

Monday, July 3

Live Performances & Entertainment

12:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.: Downtown Crossing

A range of local performances across all musical genres will perform from a stage in Downtown

A short parade will step off from City Hall Plaza and pass the Granary Burial Ground, where wreaths will be laid on the graves of patriots. The parade continues to the Old State House where the Ancient and Honorable Artillery Company will continue its tradition of reading the Declaration of Independence from the balcony. Parade viewing will be available along the route and in Downtown Crossing.

Reading of the Declaration of Independence

10:00 a.m. - 10:15 a.m.: Old State House

Annual Oration

10:30 a.m.: Faneuil Hall

USS Constitution’s Boston Harbor Sail and Salute

11:30 a.m.: Boston Harbor

See the ship depart from the Charlestown Navy Yard and cruise through Boston Harbor and pass Fort of Independence for a 21-gun salute.

Middlesex County Volunteers Fife and Drums Concert

12:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.: Downtown Crossing

The Middlesex County Volunteers Fifes & Drums is a repertory ensemble that performs martial, dance, and folk music drawn from the 17th, 18th, and early 19th centuries on regimental fifes and drum corps.

A Day of Unity: Reading Fredrick Douglass

1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.: The Steps at Downtown Crossing

The Downtown Boston BID presents “A Day of Unity,” a free event centered on a community-led reading of Frederick Douglass’s abolitionist speech “What to the Slave Is the Fourth of July?” Embracing both stirring historical and joyful contemporary elements, the event includes a variety of music from Darlene Wynn, Tempo International Rhythm & Steel, African Drum Circle and DJ Joe Johnson. Uprising Dance Theatre performs and the event concludes with a free ice cream social.

Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular

7:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m.: Esplanade

An annual tradition, the Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular will delight the masses with an evening concert and fireworks display.