South Boston Today July 13 2023

Middle-grade students have a wealth of ideas about who they are and what they want for their futures. At the same time, they too often find themselves having to reconcile their hopes and dreams with messages about what “good” careers look like, what is possible for them and what it means to be successful. At this critical stage in students’ development, their future success can be profoundly impacted by how their school approaches career-connected learning and if it is using a coordinated approach that combines academics with awareness, exploration and preparation for postsecondary education and career.

In a co-authored opinion article, Superintendent Mary Skipper and EdVestor CEO Marinell Rousmaniere offered that the Boston Public Schools have been using a

CONTINUED ON page 12

EDITORIAL

Councilman Michael Flaherty Has Served Our City For 20 Good Years

Boston will have City Councilor At Large Michael F. Flaherty serving it until next January (2024). As most residents now know, Councilor Flaherty has announced that this will be his last term in that position as he will not be seeking reelection in the Fall. The news comes as a surprise to most and brings sadness to many. But as stated by Michael himself, he will have served this city on that council for 20 years at the end of this his final term and it’s time to move on to the next chapter in his life.

He has stated that he made this decision after much self-reflection and deliberation and consultation with his family and his wife. They are apparently ok with his decision, which is the most important thing. To most people, family comes first as it should.

During Michael Flaherty’s two decades as city councilman, he has been a voice of reason and temperament in a political body that has become more and more progressive in nature and in deed. A more definitive way to describe what’s been going on there is radi-

cally veering leftward on the political spectrum much to the displeasure of many and to the detriment of Boston.

Flaherty, along with other moderates and conservatives on the council has worked hard and done his best to hold that radical element in check, most recently fighting against the left leaning member’s attempts to all but gut the budget of the Boston Police Department by trying to take 31 million dollars from it and even trying to take a large bite out of Veteran’s Services resources to the tune of $900,000.

While the overwhelming majority of Boston’s residents in all the city’s neighborhoods and demographics agree with the stand that Flaherty and his fellow voices of reason on the council, namely Ed Flynn, Frank Baker, Erin Murphy and Gabriella Coletta, have taken against those dangerous cuts, the leftist radicals on the council apparently could not care less what their constituents want. Boston is lucky to have elected officials who aren’t afraid to stand up to the clearly irresponsible attempts by those radicals.

There are some elected

officials; particularly in Massachusetts and especially in Boston, who seem to have forgotten that they work for the citizens, it’s not the other way around. Thankfully, this city still has some who understand this concept; but unfortunately, they now seem to be in the minority. Boston is fortunate that at least until next January, it will have a core of city councilors that will act as a safeguard against those ‘misguided’ members, who, if given a

free hand, with no opposition, would most likely succeed in implementing policies that would turn Boston into places like Seattle, San Francisco, Chicago, Detroit and so many other liberal run cities where crime is raging out of control and the overall quality of life is becoming unbearable ,so much so that residents are fleeing in droves.

Michael Flaherty hasn’t announced what his future plans are, at least not to our knowledge. Whatever he de-

cides to embark on next, we wish him success and thank him for his service. We are glad he will still be with us for the remainder of his term. We also hope that come next election, the voters will show wisdom in their selection to replace him with another who will also not only work for the needs and the betterment of the people he or she represents but has the courage to stand up to the radicals on that council that seem to be bound and determined to bring this city down.

“If summer had one defining scent, it would definitely be the scent of Barbecue.” - Katie Lee

This column, on occasion, has been used to review movies in the past. While I certainly don’t consider myself a professional film critic, like anyone else, I know what I like and don’t like when I go to a theatre or bring one up online or on a streaming service. Over the years, ever since moving pictures have been in existence, there have been films that have caused controversy and even major uproar. But there probably has never been one causing so much dust to be kicked up as the one that’s out there now called ‘Sound of Freedom’.

It’s the film that is based on a true story and deals with the human trafficking of children by individuals, groups and whole organizations made up of some of the sleaziest people in the world. It’s going on in dozens of countries and shockingly, even now in America. It’s not fiction, it’s actually taking place and it’s so bad that those who see this film are stunned. Simply put – it is eye opening. As the word about this is spreading, the crowds are flocking to see it by the tens of thousands everywhere. But first, a brief history of what it took to finally get ‘Sound of Freedom’ into theatres and now streaming services.

When ‘Sound of Freedom’ was completed, the producers and creators brought it to Disney. Disney bought it right up. But they wouldn’t show it. In a sense they buried it and kept it from the public. So, the producers raised the money and bought it back from Disney and brought it to Netflix. Netflix refused to show it. So, they brought it to several other movie sources, none of which would touch it. They clearly didn’t want it shown. The big question is WHY? Why was it so important to keep the public from viewing it? Since when do Disney and other movie companies shy away from controversial films? Could it be because ‘Sound of Freedom’ is based

on fact and tells a story that these companies don’t want told? What are they trying to hide, who are they trying to protect and why?

So, the creators of ‘Sound of Freedom ‘decided that they would not be deterred. They raised the money needed to get it out to the public and last week it opened in 2600 theaters around the country. When the word spread about how good and enlightening this film was, thousands flocked to the theaters on opening weekend. So big was, and still is, the rush to see ‘Sound of Freedom’ that it blew away the competition, including the new Indiana Jones movie and the crowds flocking to the film now are growing by the day.

The popularity of ‘Sound of Freedom’ has Hollywood and the entire movie industry not just furious, but actually trembling. Why? Two reasons. The ‘woke’ films that they are putting out this summer are costing them massive amounts of money to make and promote and for the most part they are flopping at the box office. ‘Sound of Freedom’ which had cost much less to make and with its popularity comes from real people that are going to see it and spreading the word - rather than from huge promotional budgets and advertizing by the big companies - is on fire. But the main reason that has Hollywood and the mainstream media so contorted with fear and hatred for this film seems to be the subject matter. ‘Sound of Freedom’ is shining a light on and drawing attention to this massive human trafficking of children industry that up to this point has remained under the radar. Again, why are they protecting a cruel and illegal industry at this point?

Right now, there is a frantic campaign against ‘Sound of Freedom’ by some very powerful forces. The media is almost shrieking that the film’s subject matter is all a right-wing

conspiracy theory. It certainly is not. It’s documented and the proof is as plain as day. The New York Times and some other big papers won’t even make mention of it. CNN is all but begging people not to go see it. Rolling Stone Magazine (yes, that mag actually still exists) is bashing it calling it a QAnon hoax. If these ultra leftist critics and news outlets are that much in a frenzy trying to stop people from seeing it – it is definitely worth seeing. It’s now being documented that even some theatres are being pressured to stop showing it and some that do, have taken down the film’s posters so as not to give it as much publicity.

But the efforts are failing badly. The crowds are still coming and growing, and the word keeps spreading.

It’s obvious that ‘Sound of Freedom’ has touched a nerve and exposed the pure evil of what’s been going on. Human trafficking of children is much bigger than the public ever dreamed. But to be stopped, it must be exposed, and this has done it. The film is powerful. It will touch your heart and stir your emotions. The excellent cast, led by famous actor Jim Caviezel, is amazing. ‘Sound of Freedom’ is a film that you’ll probably never forget for as long as you live. It is worth the money to go see it. You won’t be disappointed.

SOUTH BOSTON TODAY John Ciccone

Child Care Costs

Toddlers, their parents and the educators who serve them took to the State House tomorrow to press lawmakers to reform a child-care system that’s burdening families with high costs and few options. Early childhood education proponents from the Common Start Coalition, who are behind the rally for an affordable, accessible system, are hoping they’ll have something big to celebrate, too. Both chambers have formal sessions planned for 11 a.m. on Thursday, but top Democrats have been mum so far on which bills they plan to advance. Both House and Senate versions include big investments in early childhood education and care — $850

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.

million and $1.5 billion, respectively — but vary on exactly how much and how to fund it.

Also on the table are a pair of bills — filed by Sens. Jason Lewis and Susan Moran and Reps. Adrian Madaro and Kenneth Gordon — that would advance the coalition’s plan to subsidize child care and bump up educators’ salaries to shore up a workforce crisis. “The result for parents and families would be substantially lower costs — tens of thousands a year in savings for middleincome families,” coalition spokesman Andrew Farnitano told MASSterList. “The cost of child care working families are facing right now is astronomical.”

Child care is one of the largest

expenses for Massachusetts families where it ranks the second-most-expensive nationwide. Infant care carries a $20,000-a-year price tag — if they can find it. Current subsidies are woefully underfunded, advocates say, pointing to a waitlist for financial aid that’s some 16,000 families long. Thousands of workers left the industry amid the pandemic and child-care centers have struggled to staff up ever since, leaving families scrambling and putting a squeeze on the state economy. The state is losing $2.7 billion each year in lost wages, productivity and tax revenue due to inadequate access to child care. Competitiveness is a major concern on Beacon Hill as lawmakers tackle unaffordable housing, health care and child care that’s squeezing Bay Staters and pushing some out. Massachusetts was one of only two states in the nation — alongside Indiana — to see personal incomes drop

BMC turning away migrant

A new Boston Medical Center policy has barred migrant families from sheltering in its emergency department — sometimes sending them in Ubers to Logan Airport if a state-run welcome center or homeless shelter is closed, reports Samantha J. Gross and Elizabeth Koh for The Boston Globe. The state is struggling to provide resources to thousands of newly arrived migrants, many of whom arrive at the hospital seeking shelter because other options are full.

Put it on the tab: Cost of housing migrants in hotels, motels unclear

A Republican state lawmaker accused the Healey administration of giving a “woefully incomplete” response to a request for the costs associated with housing migrant families in 38 hotels and motels on an emergency basis, reports Chris Van Buskirk for The Boston Herald. And Healey pushed back through a spokeswoman, saying

Spencer Rep. Peter Durant agreed to a “narrative” answer to a records request.

Uber, Lyft drivers take to the streets to push unionization

Roughly 500 Uber and Lyft drivers rallied with labor groups and other advocates to press lawmakers to pass a bill that would let the drivers unionize and offer other worker protections, GBH reported. Bill supporters say that a union would help drivers negotiate for better pay, benefits and working conditions. It’s a push that’s gone on for more than two years on Beacon Hill.

Heavy rains, flooding damage Western Mass crops

Residents of Franklin County dealt with flooded basements, washed out driveways, roads that have basically turned into rivers and the loss of entire farms’ worth of crops following a deluge earlier this week, reports Colin A. Between Sunday morning and Tuesday morning, towns along the northern part of the Interstate 91 corridor received multiple inches of rainfall -- 4.58 inches in Conway, 4.12 inches in Ashfield, 3.89 inches in Buckland, 3.68 inches in Colrain and 3.12 inches in Shelburne, according to the National Weather Service.

South Boston beach still closed to public despite $31 million renovation project

South Boston residents have nowhere to cool down halfway through summer as L Street Beach remains closed to the public despite a $31.2 million renovation on the facility — and its left Bostonians boiling, reports Lance Reynolds for The Boston Herald. It will be at least another week before residents get to cool down at the beach, with the city dragging its feet on approving a beach operation and management plan that the state has already signed off on.

A Statement from Council President Flynn on Recent Incidents Involving City

MURPHY WARNS OF DANGEROUS PUBLIC SAFETY STAFFING LEVELS

inspection sticker, and the lack of a booster seat for the child. This occurred in the same week that Councilor Arroyo admitted to ethics violations and was fined $3,000 by the Massachusetts State Ethics Commission.

Boston City Councilor AtLarge Erin Murphy on Monday called for renewed urgency around emergency services staffing levels, citing unacceptable risks to public health in all of Boston’s neighborhoods resulting from a response system pressured to a dangerous extent.

“Many Boston residents have contacted me regarding their concerns on the recent car crash in Jamaica Plain. First, it is fortunate that Councilor Lara and her child - as well as nearby homeowners, motorists, pedestrians or bystanders -were not seriously injured, and we wish them a speedy recovery. We thank our dedicated first responders for their professionalism in ensuring that everyone was safe and was treated appropriately for their injuries.

However, residents across the City of Boston are concerned about troubling details in the reports of this incident, allegedly including an unregistered vehicle, a revoked driver’s license, no auto insurance, an expired

These events, and others in the past, continue to draw negative attention to the institution of the Boston City Council, and distract our city from focusing on the people’s business.

The people of Boston deserve the highest standards of strong and ethical leadership. Moreover, they want elected officials who show maturity, take responsibility as adults, and demonstrate the ability to follow the same basic rules and norms as the people they serve when placing us in positions of public trust.

The residents of Boston deserve leaders who respect their constituents and take their responsibilities seriously, especially during these challenging times.”

Councilors: Hearts, Hugs & Hope: A Virtual Alzheimer’s Support Group Offered by Compass on the Bay

Along with City Councilor Gabriel Coletta, Murphy in June filed for a hearing to explore increasing emergency services. Murphy, who chairs the Committee on Public Health, Homelessness, and Recovery, said the strain that has been placed on the city’s front-line response system poses an array of dangers, from overworked first responders to unnecessary burdens on the municipal budget through costly overtime expenditures.

“As a Council, we’ve dealt with difficult budgeting conversations in recent months,” Murphy added. “But no Bostonians are thinking about how the Council debated the public safety budget when they’re waiting for an ambulance to help themselves or a loved one.”

served, we need to be able to provide rapid, top-quality emergency responses,” Murphy said. “That’s very hard to do with thinned-out staffing or with cops or EMTs who are working the tail end of an overtime shift. I’m in community meetings every week across the city, and people want a more robust public safety and public health presence, not a depleted one.”

July 20, 2023, 6:00 pm. Dealing with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementia isn’t easy, so it is helpful to share your concerns and personal experiences with others who completely understand

what you’re going through. You will also learn about proven strategies to help you better care for your family member. This group will be held in conjunction with our sister community, Standish Village. Call 617-268-5450 or email Director of Community Relations Dean Tricarico at dtricarico@compassonthebay. com for more information and to register for the virtual meeting.

This is a virtual event sponsored by Compass on the Bay Assisted Living and Memory Support Community, 1380 Columbia Road, South Boston.

In the hearing order, pointing to anticipated population growth, they called it “incumbent upon the City to review and analyze how this anticipated growth will impact our ability to provide basic city services such as public safety responses under fire, police, and emergency services.”

Murphy said that the summer in particular presents challenges, from annual spikes in violence to the health risks to seniors and others from oppressive heat. She noted that, recently, at least one Boston Police officer had been forced to work a 24-hour shift. Additionally, emergency calls to 911 have been met with delayed responses in multiple neighborhoods due to staffing shortages.

“Particularly in neighborhoods that have been historically under-

Murphy said the city must do a better job of hiring and retaining first responders, citing Boston Police Commissioner Michael Cox’s statement to The Boston Globe that the city was “definitely evaluating” leaving the state’s civil service system. Pointing to Boston’s rising cost of living, Murphy affirmed her support for some residency rules, but said the worsening emergency response situation warranted a full evaluation of the civil service system.

Murphy had issued a similar warning last July, when several Boston Police officers were mandated to work round-the-clock shifts as a result of major events across the city, including the Open Streets festival in Jamaica Plain, a Red Sox-Yankees game at Fenway, and a festival in the Seaport District.

Such demands, Murphy said at the time, both impaired officers’ mental and physical health, and created a public safety liability for residents. Murphy has also previously called for increasing class sizes at the Boston Police Academy.

I Was Just Thinking…

drive any faster to accommodate the drivers behind me.

When someone tailgates you, it is annoying. Why?

Because they are driving in an inconsiderate and dangerous manner.

Unfortunately, tailgating is a common occurrence on our roads today.

So, why do so many people tailgate?

by Kevin Devlin

The other day I was driving my grandson Kevin to summer camp. While on Beale Street, which is in a residential area with varying speed limits, as posted, of 20-25 miles per hour, I noticed a young woman driver, perhaps in her early thirties, tailgating me. Then on my way back home, again on Beale Street, another driver, a woman in her late fifties was tailgating me. Both times I was driving within the speed limit and wasn’t going to

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that twenty-three percent of all crashes are rear-end accidents resulting in 2,000 fatalities and roughly 950,000 injuries each year. Interestingly, seventy-four percent of drivers say they’ve been tailgated, yet sadly only eleven percent admit to doing it themselves.

Many suffer a variety of life altering injuries as a result of accidents due to tailgating. These injuries include, neck and back injuries, facial disfigurement and permanent scarring, Traumatic brain injury, Spinal cord damage, including partial or complete paralysis, broken bones, cuts and lacerations from broken glass or exposed auto parts, internal bleeding and organ damage from blunt force trauma, picture wounds, bruises, and soft tissue injuries.

Some drivers are in a hurry. Maybe late for school, work, the doctors, or picking up a friend or family member. So, they drive fast and too close (albeit aware of the dangers) to other drivers, hoping to intimidate the driver in front of them to speed up or get out of the way. By doing this they figure they’ll arrive at their destination quicker. But that isn’t the case. Research has shown otherwise and tragically increases the odds that someone won’t make it all.

Some drivers are so distracted they just don’t care if they are driving safely and are oblivious to the risks and dangers involved.

Some drivers are just ignorant of the law and lack driving experience. These new drivers probably weren’t taught to drive safely and usually don’t know what tailgating is and why it is bad. how bad it is. And if an accident happens, they may not understand that it was their fault, or could be confused about why the accident happened in the first place.

And finally, some drivers are engulfed in complacency. They realize tailgating is dangerous and should

Introducing USPS Ground Advantage

New coast-to-coast 2-5-day shipping offering now available. Competitively priced for America’s businesses and retail customers

The Postal Service announced the launch of its new shipping offering, USPS Ground Advantage. The enhanced ground solution provides a simple, reliable, and more affordable way to ship packages in two-to-five business days across the continental United States.

“USPS Ground Advantage is a game changer – for our customers, the industry and USPS. By efficiently and effectively integrating our ground transportation model to the magnificence of our last mile delivery operations, we can now offer the most compelling ground shipping offering in the market,” said Louis DeJoy, United States Postmaster General and CEO. “With USPS Ground Advantage, we are ready to compete for an increased share of the growing package business.”

USPS Ground Advantage provides

America’s businesses and the public with a compelling new ground shipping option leveraging USPS’ unparalleled last-mile delivery route system and improving integrated mail and package postal logistics network. With the product’s launch, USPS is retiring three offerings: USPS Retail Ground, USPS Parcel Select Ground and USPS First-Class Package Service as well as Ground Returns and FirstClass Package Return Service.

USPS Ground Advantage is a key element of the Postal Service’s shipping service growth strategy as part of the 10year Delivering for America plan. A new shipping portfolio – comprised of USPS Ground Advantage and USPS Connect Local and Regional – positions USPS to compete very effectively for any package under 25 pounds that can be

transported by ground, within a region across states, and across the country.

USPS Ground Advantage Key Features

• Packages delivered in 2-5 business days across the continental United States.

• Free package pickup service at home or in-office.

• Business customers can use USPS Ground Advantage return service as a convenient option for customers who need to send items back.

• $100 insurance included on USPS Ground Advantage and USPS Ground Advantage Return packages. Customers can purchase up to $5,000 in additional coverage.

To bring USPS Ground Advantage to market, the Postal Service is launching an integrated marketing campaign through the fall leveraging Direct Mail,

not be done, while assuming such accidents due to this unacceptable behavior will occur elsewhere and not by them.

Tailgating is against the law.

Massachusetts law 720 CMR § 90.06(7) states that “Following Too Closely” is a prohibited offense. An individual is in violation of this law if they are following the vehicle ahead of them closer than what is “reasonable and prudent,” having due regard to the speed of such vehicle and the traffic upon and condition of the highway.”

A conviction for tailgating in Massachusetts can result in a fine ranging from $100 to $500 and having demerit points assessed to your driving record.

More importantly is the danger of causing bodily harm or death to another.

So, don’t tailgate.

Think of the other drivers.

Maintain a safe distance so you will have time to react to any sudden changes which may occur on the road in front of you.

And act as if your life and the life of others is at risk. Because they are.

digital, search, social and radio to reach every American business.

Where to Find USPS Ground Advantage

• Available now wherever customers ship from including all 34,000 Post Offices or on Click-N-Ship. USPS Ground Advantage is available for shippers of all sizes who want reliable domestic ground shipping to all 50 states, PO Boxes, APOs FPOs, DPOs, U.S. military bases, territories, and Freely Associated States.

In the Postal Service’s Mailin’ It podcast, Jakki Krage Strako, Chief Commerce and Business Solutions Officer, discussed USPS Ground Advantage and how USPS is focused on strengthening its shipping solutions as part of the Postal Service’s 10-year strategic plan for service excellence, on-time delivery, and revenue generation from enhanced package delivery services. Additional insight from Strako is available on Postal Posts, the USPS Ground Advantage blog. For more information about USPS Ground Advantage, go to: www.usps. com/groundadvantage.

MAYOR WU ANNOUNCES RESIDENTIAL CONVERSION PROGRAM FOR DOWNTOWN OFFICES

Mayor Michelle Wu announced the City will launch a new “Downtown Office to Residential Conversion Pilot Program,” a public-private partnership program to incentivize the conversion of underutilized office buildings to residential use in Downtown this fall.

The program, which is anticipated to begin accepting applications this fall, will be administered jointly by the Boston Planning & Development Agency (BPDA), Mayor’s Office of Housing (MOH), and the City of Boston Finance Cabinet to help meet City goals of creating housing units Downtown and having more consistent foot traffic throughout the week to support Downtown businesses. This program may be modified to acknowledge and respond to changing market conditions.

“We must take every possible action to create more housing and

more affordability so that Boston’s growth meets the needs of current and future residents,” said Mayor Michelle Wu. “This program will help us take advantage of the opportunity we have to rethink Downtown as a space where people from all over come together to collaborate, create, live, and play.”

“Through this conversion program, we seek to incentivize lenders, property owners, downtown stakeholders, and the State to partner with the City to increase the production of much needed housing in our downtown core,” said Chief of Planning Arthur Jemison. “This public private partnership opportunity is the right tool to unlock new housing and shape a new, mixed-use neighborhood Downtown.”

“By converting office space into residential homes, we can fulfill the housing needs of our thriving City, while revitalizing and stabiliz-

Virtual Public Meeting

147 W. 4th Street

Project Description:

MBCU, 29 A Street Realty Trust and Lincoln Property Company are proposing the construction of a new 15,000 square-foot MBCU Headquarters, an eight-story, approximately 113,000 square-foot office/laboratory building, and a new, 13-story, approximately 111,000 square-foot residential building.

作为波士顿居民和利益相关者，本会议的信息对您来说是至关重要的。可以提供翻译服务以 传达本会议的内容，您无需承担任何额外费用。如果您需要翻译服务，请通过以下方式进行 联系： (stephen.j.harvey@boston.com) (617-918-4418) 会议定于 2023 年 07月25日，

请在会议前5天内申请口译服务

作為波士頓居民和利益相關者，本會議的信息對您來說是至關重要的。可以提供翻譯服務以 傳達本會議的內容，您無需承擔任何額外費用。如果您需要翻譯服務，請通過以下方式進行 聯繫： (stephen.j.harvey@boston.com) (617-918-4418) 會議定於2023年07月25日，請 在會議前5天内申請口譯服務

For more information visit: https://www.bostonplans.org/projects/developmentprojects/147-w-fourth-street

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

Close of Comment Period: 8/4/2023

ing our downtown neighborhood,” said Chief of Housing Sheila Dillon. “New residents will enjoy the advantages of living in a neighborhood with many amenities, including shopping options, recreational spaces and multiple transportation hubs. This initiative aligns with this administration’s dedication to creating accessible and equitable housing in every neighborhood, strengthening our small businesses and commercial centers.”

The program would offer owners of commercial office buildings Downtown reduced property tax rates in return for immediately converting their buildings to residential uses. Based on studies prepared for the City as part of PLAN: Downtown, a rate reduction by up to 75% of the standard tax rate for residential for up to 29 years could provide a strong incentive to encourage conversion. This would be implemented

through a public-private partnership that will enable the BPDA, the City, and the proponent to enter into a payment in lieu of taxes (PILOT) agreement. These terms were developed with the assistance of outside experts in order to make residential construction economically possible in the short term given the high cost of such conversions. These projects will also receive the support of the new Ombudsperson’s office at the BPDA to help with streamlining the

continued on page 12

Virtual Public Meeting

118 B Street Residential Project

Tuesday, August 1 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Project Proponent: Dunmoe Group LLC

Project Description:

Zoom Link: bit.ly/3PQ7q9P

Toll Free: (833) 568 - 8864

Meeting ID: 160 960 6353

The BPDA is hosting a virtual Public Meeting for the proposed 118 B Street Residential Project located in South Boston. The purpose of the meeting is to discuss the Small Project Review Application (SPRA) that was filed and its potential impacts. The meeting will include a presentation followed by questions and comments from the public.

The proposed project is to consist of 37 new residential apartment units, primarily market rate, with six affordable units in accordance with the City’s Inclusionary Development Policy. The project site is occupied by a one- to three-story commercial building, with a street-facing surface parking lot.

mail to: Scott Greenhalgh

Boston Planning & Development Agency

One City Hall Square, 9th Floor Boston, MA 02201

phone: 617.918.4271

email: scott.greenhalgh@boston.gov

Close of Comment Period: 8/9/2023

BostonPlans.org

@BostonPlans

Teresa Polhemus, Executive Director/Secretary

Guy The Wine

Well then, another Independence Day has come and gone. For those of you who don’t know, the French were key strategic allies to us, but not because they loved us; they couldn’t have cared less. They really hated the English and would’ve done anything they could have to tick them off; and by God, they did. Off the coast of Yorktown, Virginia, to the tune of “The World Turned Upside Down”, General Lord Cornwallis surrendered all of North America to General George Washington. I’m not sure what his Lordship had to drink later that day, but I hope it was something good, possibly Claret from his family’s own vineyard. In those days, many noble families from England owned property in Bordeaux. I would

guess that he may have had more to drink than usual. It was, after all, one of those days.

The first permanent European settlement in Oregon was established in 1811 at Fort George (now known as Astoria) by the British Pacific Fur Company. The British-Canadian Hudson Bay Company, which also traded in furs, later founded Fort Vancouver in 1824. Word eventually spread to the rest of the young United States about the incredibly rich soil and soon, farmers of all types jumped at the offer of free land. Among them were immigrants from Italy and France who brought their rootstocks with them and over time, Pinot Noir, a difficult grape to get the best out of, flourished.

Pinot Noir produces the best red wines in Burgundy, notable for their aromas of red fruit and spices. The aging potential of wines made from Pinot Noir is generally considerable.

Pinot Noir juice is colorless. It’s during maceration and its time in the fermentation tank that the colorant contained in the skin of the grapes gives the wine its red color. Here are some that are drinking well now, but that you can also cellar for years to come.

Willamette Valley Vineyards,2021 Estate Pinot Noir, ($39.99)

The 2021 Estate Pinot Noir expresses the terroir of estate vineyards — the original planting by Founder Jim Bernau at the winery in the Salem Hills, Tualatin Estate planted by Oregon wine pioneer Bill Fuller in the foothills of the Coastal Range

and Elton planted by Dick and Betty O’Brien on the east face of the EolaAmity Hills. This one has rich notes of cherries, blackberries and caramel on the palette along with a chewy mouthfeel and a long, rich finish. James Suckling gave it 91 points and Suckling is a very stingy guy with ratings of 90+ points. It’s terrific with duck and gamebirds and if you’re a Bluefish fan, you know they’re running now off Nantucket Sound and this one brings out the fresh flavor they’re known for.

The 2020 Love Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley, Oregon, ($35.99), has a dark ruby color with aromas and flavors of pomegranate jam, bramble berry and leather, touch of brett, and cinnamon and nutmeg with a satiny, crisp, bone-dry medium body and a tingling, complex, medium-length finish conveying accents of thanksgiving cranberry pomegranate chutney, wild strawberry, and cinnamon and nutmeg with well-integrated, silky tannins and light oak flavor. A rich and dynamic Pinot Noir showing good fruit underneath the surface with some seriously good wine making technique on display.

Domaine Drouhin, 2017 Oregon Pinot Noir, ($47.99). The Drouhin saga goes back four generations starting in Burgundy and taking that French tradition to Oregon’s Willamette Valley, making lengthy use of the land’s similarities to the hallowed French region. When it comes to distilling the flavor of Oregon pinot in its top form, Domaine Drouhin is the bottle to beat. The 2017 Dundee Hills offers a fragrant nose of bright black cherries, berry bramble, orange peel, golden brown spices and a touch of sweet oak. Layered behind are notes of red berries and rhubarb. Flavors of red

plum, boysenberry and cassis mingle with a savory trio of white pepper, forest floor and sassafras. Elusive and elegant, this wine is wonderful now but will be in a perfect place with 5 – 12 years of cellaring.

Resonance Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley, Oregon, ($39.99). For a winery that’s the new kid on the block, Résonance Wines claims a hefty pedigree. French-born winemaker Jacques Ladiére spent over 40 years crafting the beautiful Burgundy wines at Maison Louis Jadot, retired, then got pulled right back into the game to put his magic Burgundy touch on the Oregon pinot scene under the Jadot banner. He teams up here with fellow winemaker Guillaume Large, also born of the Burgundy vineyards, to create some brilliant wines with that unmistakable French flair. This one is a deep and brilliant dark ruby color. On the nose, aromas of red fruits pair elegantly with a touch of spice and wood. Flavors such as cherries and currants standout in the mouth and finish with soft tannins and a pleasant minerality.

Lastly, Tendril Extrovert Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley, Oregon, ($49.99) shows why winemaker Tony Rynders is a heavyweight of the Pacific Northwest wine industry who cut his teeth with experiences working at vineyards in several continents and made a name for himself earning a record number of 90+ point wines as head winemaker at Domaine Serene. So it’s no surprise that this bottle, the pinnacle of Rynders’s storied career, is given such an outgoing name as “Extrovert.” With its floral and herbal aromas and fruity palate, it just may be the life of the party. If you’re having a party or going to one anytime soon, bring a few bottles. You won’t be sorry.

South Boston graduate receives award for college

The Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport) has announced the recipient of the annual scholarship honoring the memory of Tommy Butler, the long-time Massport Director of Government and Community Affairs and son of South Boston. The 2023 Thomas J. Butler Memorial Scholarship was awarded to South Boston resident Riley Joyce.

Massport Awards Annual Butler Memorial Scholarship Massport Awards First Annual Hadden Gray Memorial Scholarship

“Riley has made a tremendous impact on her community through her service,” said Massport CEO Lisa Wieland. “She has excelled academically and in her extracurricular activities, and I know she will go on to achieve great things at Providence College.”

The Thomas J. Butler Memorial Scholarship is awarded annually to a student who resides in South Boston, is graduating from high school and has been accepted to an accredited college or university. Butler was the former mayor of the South Boston Boys Club, Youth Counselor and then Director of Little City Hall in Charlestown, former president of the South Boston Citizens Association and member of the South Boston Irish American Society. When he arrived at Massport in 1987 as a manager of intergovernmental relations, he was a licensed social worker who had worked in the Boston Juvenile Court, and for the City of Boston.

Joyce is a graduate of Thayer Academy and will soon attend Providence College. She has volunteered her time at St. Monica’s Food Pantry, Kickoff for Kids, Miss Linda’s School of

Dance and tutoring local children.

To be considered for the Thomas J. Butler Scholarship, students are required to have a minimum 3.0 grade point average and submit an essay of 1,000 words describing their career interests or how their community service has affected their outlook on life. In her essay, Riley wrote, “Although I am drawn to law and the criminal justice system, I am also looking for a way to help people and give back.”

Applications are judged by a committee made up of Massport employees and a representative of the Butler family. Students interested in applying for the 2024 scholarship should visit www.massport. com for eligibility requirements.

Powering What’s Possible. The Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport) owns and operates Boston Logan International Airport, public terminals in the Port of Boston, Hanscom Field, and Worcester Regional Airport. For more information, please visit Massport.com.

South Boston resident receives award for college

The Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport) has announced the recipient of the annual scholarship honoring the memory of longtime employee Deborah Hadden Gray. The 2023 Deborah Hadden Gray Memorial Scholarship was awarded to South Boston resident Keara Wilbanks.

“We are proud to name Keara as this year’s Deborah Hadden Gray Memorial Scholarship recipient,” said Massport CEO Lisa Wieland. “Her academic achievement, impressive recommendations and her interest in marine science made Keara the standout applicant this year.”

The Deborah Hadden Gray Memorial Scholarship is awarded annually to a high school student who is a resident of the City of Boston, Chelsea, Revere or Winthrop. Hadden Gray worked for Massport for 20 years and served as Port Director from 2012-2015. She had a tremendous impact on Massport’s Maritime mission as a strong advocate for the Working Port and the jobs and businesses it supported, while carefully balancing the priorities of the South Boston community.

Wilbanks is a graduate of Boston Latin School, and she will soon

attend Florida Atlantic University. She has worked at the Condon Community Center, and she has volunteered her time helping with community events and neighborhood beautification efforts.

To be considered for the Deborah Hadden Gray Memorial Scholarship, students are required to have a minimum 3.0 grade point average and submit an essay of 1,000 words describing their career interests or how their community service has affected their outlook on life. In her essay, Keara wrote, “I work at the Condon Community Center and have since I was in tenth grade. I really value the community that has been created there and I am lucky to be a part of it.”

Applications are judged by a committee made up of Massport employees and a representative of the Gray family. Students interested in applying for the 2024 scholarship should visit www.massport. com for eligibility requirements.

Powering What’s Possible. The Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport) owns and operates Boston Logan International Airport, public terminals in the Port of Boston, Hanscom Field, and Worcester Regional Airport. For more information, please visit Massport

BCYF Fun Fests Kick Off July 20 at BCYF Condon

Thursday, July 20, from 5-7 p.m. at BCYF Condon Community Center, 200 D Street in South Boston.

Mark your calendar and bring your friends and family to a fun and free Neighborhood Fun Fest Party and learn more about your neighborhood community center! The Fun Fest will be held on

The BCYF Fun Fest will offer a variety of free activities including music, a cookout, dunk tank, Mega Obstacle Course, DJ and dance party, snow cones and cotton candy, face paint and balloon magic, Hoop Mania, ice cream and Cookie Monstah trucks, sçpecial guest performances, giveaways and information about

BCYF Condon Community Center’s programming and activities. There will also be fun activities in the swimming pool.

In the case of rain or other weather issues, please check BCYF’s social media pages, @BCYFCenters, for updates. Additional Fun Fests will be held over the course of the summer at other BCYF centers. Visit Boston.gov/BCYF for dates and locations.

ABOUT BCYF

Boston Centers for Youth & Families (BCYF)<https://www.boston.gov/ departments/boston-centers-youthfamilies> is the City of Boston’s largest youth and human service agency. BCYF operates 35 community centers in Boston that offer a variety of engaging and enriching programs for people of all ages created through community input and need. BCYF also oversees many citywide programs.

Pictured L-R: Tommy’s Son, Thomas Butler, Jr., Riley Joyce, Massport CEO Lisa Wieland

New Stormwater Utility To Help Modernize BWSC Infrastructure

gray and green.

Early next year, the Boston Water and Sewer Commission (BWSC) will launch a new stormwater utility that will meet an increased need to modernize Boston’s stormwater infrastructure and better prepare for climate change. The proposed stormwater utility will restructure BWSC’s current billing by creating a stormwater charge, as well as credit and grant programs that will allow customers to reduce their stormwater charge by performing approved stormwater management activities. The credit and grant programs are being included as part of the stormwater utility following months of conversation with the City of Boston.

BWSC expects that the majority of residential customers will not see an increase in their overall bill because the new billing structure includes a reduction to the existing sewer rate. The funds from the new stormwater charge will help make necessary improvements to Boston’s stormwater management systems to better prepare the City for more frequent and intense storms, mitigate flooding, and reduce the amount of polluted runoff draining to the city’s waterways. Ahead of the launch, BWSC will undertake a six-month public outreach campaign, during which BWSC will solicit feedback and share information about the proposed stormwater utility with the public.

“The stormwater charge is a fairer and more equitable way to support stormwater services,” said Henry Vitale, Executive Director of BWSC. “There are some properties in the City of Boston—such as parking lots—that are not billed for water and sewer, yet these properties have a significant impact on the amount of stormwater runoff that must be managed. We’re proposing that these property owners will have ‘stormwater only’ accounts and pay a stormwater charge.”

The new stormwater charge will

allow BWSC and its partners to modernize infrastructure while allowing Boston to address additional growing challenges posed by both climate change and urban development’s expanding footprint.

Stormwater is generated when precipitation falls on hard impervious surfaces like roofs, driveways, roads, or sidewalks and “runs off,” rather than absorbing into the ground as it would in nature. When stormwater flows over hard surfaces, it collects litter, sediment, and other pollutants, like motor oil and fertilizer. Catch basins in our roadways capture stormwater and convey it through a network of underground pipes called storm drains. Storm drains then release stormwater into our water bodies via stormwater outfalls. Stormwater does not receive treatment at the Deer Island wastewater treatment plant, which means that all the pollutants carried by stormwater enter our lakes, rivers, streams, and Boston Harbor.

In a city that receives an average of 48 inches of rainfall annually, stormwater runoff also contributes to inland flooding. Due to climate change, storms are becoming more frequent and more intense, which will result in more flooding in the coming years if BWSC and the City do not begin to adapt now.

To respond to these challenges, Boston must make improvements to our aging storm drain system, add storage capacity and stormwater treatment, and increase maintenance activities throughout the City. Infrastructure improvements will include pipe replacement and upsizing to accommodate larger volumes of water; stormwater storage features, like stormwater trenches, chambers, vaults, and other infiltration features that will be implemented wherever feasible; and additional staff, training, and equipment to facilitate more frequent and effective maintenance for all stormwater infrastructure, both

Green infrastructure (GI) will also be a key component of Boston’s stormwater management strategy. GI features mimic the natural water cycle, using plants, soil and other natural materials to capture, filter, store and infiltrate stormwater back into the ground. These features come in all shapes and sizes and have many benefits beyond stormwater management. Benefits include increasing urban tree canopy, mitigating urban heat islands, improving air quality, as well as providing access to green space and improving mental health among urban dwellers. BWSC and the City are currently building and expanding our GI Programs, which include GI planning, design, construction, maintenance, and monitoring activities. GI features like rain gardens, bioswales, bioretention areas, tree infiltration trenches, constructed wetlands, etc. will be deployed in Environmental Justice communities and areas that are already disproportionately experiencing the effects of climate change. These features will not only remove pollutants and provide much-needed stormwater storage to reduce localized flooding but will help create a more beautiful and healthy city.

The proposed stormwater charge will be used exclusively for stormwater management and will be based on the amount of impervious surface on a property. This is the most common basis for stormwater charges across the country and will more accurately reflect the cost of collecting and managing stormwater. Additionally, customers that currently receive BWSC’s elderly and disability discounts (30% on water and sewer charges) will have those discounts automatically applied to the stormwater charge.

Since BWSC’s creation in 1977, its investment in sewer and stormwater infrastructure modernization has resulted in dramatic water quality improvements in Boston Harbor, its beaches, and tributary rivers. In 2012, BWSC filed a consent decree settlement to enhance its efforts to comply with the Clean Water

Act, as well as clean and revitalize Boston Harbor and its tributaries, including the Charles, Neponset, and Mystic Rivers.

The revenue generated by the stormwater charge will fund BWSC’s regulatory compliance responsibilities, while also supporting a more resilient future. BWSC will make investments in measures that improve water quality, increase public awareness and protect the environment, including:

• New storm drain infrastructure

• Repair and replacement of existing infrastructure

• Green infrastructure

• Installation of stormwater control measures

• Outfall restoration

• Numerous other drainage improvement projects

A growing number of U.S. cities, including over 20 municipalities in Massachusetts, have implemented stormwater utilities. Stormwater charges have been embraced nationwide as a more equitable approach to funding infrastructure modernization and better management of stormwater runoff.

Boston’s stormwater system is New England’s largest and consists of over 30,000 catch basins and 600 miles of pipe conveying stormwater to more than 250 outfalls. BWSC customers currently pay for stormwater management through the rates charged for sewer service. In the past, when sewage and stormwater were managed with one set of “combined sewer” pipes, using sewer charges to pay for stormwater management made sense. Now that BWSC has largely separated Boston’s combined system, the proposed stormwater utility will separate out charges for stormwater from the charges for sewer.

BWSC is in the process of determining the final amount of the proposed stormwater charge. However, customers can access more information about the proposed stormwater utility (stormwater charge, credit program, and grant program), as well as a bill estimator tool, on the BWSC webpage at https://www. bwsc.org/stormwater.

MAYOR WU AND THE DISABILITIES COMMISSION ANNOUNCE LAUNCH OF BOSTON BRAKES

New initiative to raise awareness of pedestrians with disabilities across Boston’s neighborhoods.

to work alongside the disability community in both the design of our infrastructure and how we interact with each other on public rights of way.”

Mayor Michelle Wu, the City of Boston Disabilities Commission, and the Boston Streets Cabinet announced the launch of Boston Brakes, an outreach campaign designed to raise awareness and increase safety of pedestrians with disabilities. The Disabilities Commission created Boston Brakes to alert and educate members of the public that people with different types of disabilities are prevalent on Boston’s sidewalks, streets, and intersections every day, including those who have mobility, sensory, and intellectual disabilities.

“To be a more sustainable, healthy, and inclusive city, we must ensure that everyone can navigate our streets and sidewalks safely,” said Mayor Michelle Wu. “As our city continues to grow, we are launching the Boston Brakes campaign to ensure our streets are safe for everyone as they get around. We will continue

“The message of this campaign is really simple and straightforward,” said City of Boston Disability Commissioner Kristen McCosh. “Remember that everyone moves at a different pace, so let’s respect each other’s space. People with disabilities have unique needs when navigating public rights of way. Older adults and people with mobility impairments may not be able to step aside quickly when a cyclist approaches; people who are blind or have low vision might not see a bicycle or an electric scooter coming; and those who are Deaf or hard of hearing won’t necessarily hear a bell, a horn, or someone calling out a warning to move aside. Whether you trek Boston streets on wheels or feet, accessibility, sustainability, and safety are important to us all. That is why I am thrilled to announce Boston Brakes, a campaign to educate pedestrians about safety. This campaign aims to make sure that everyone is keeping an eye out for others and is ready to brake to keep people safe.”

As Boston moves toward becoming a healthier, greener, more resilient City, traditional uses of sidewalk curb zones have shifted to meet sustainability goals. New elements are being added along the curb, such as bike lanes, outdoor dining, and electric vehicle charging stations. With these changes to city infrastructure, Boston Brakes will raise awareness to residents, businesses and visitors that disabled residents and visitors still need clear access to sidewalks, curb ramps, crosswalks, audible pedestrian signals, and on-street HP-DV parking spaces.

The Boston Brakes campaign will be featured as part of the City’s annual ADA Day Celebration on Boston City Hall Plaza on July 18th, from 12 to 2 p.m. Every year, the Disabilities Commission honors an outstanding part -

ner who has worked to increase accessibility and inclusion of people with disabilities. This year, the Boston Streets Cabinet will be recognized for their partnership in building accessible sidewalks, curb ramps, audio pedestrian signals, and safer intersections.

“Our main goal at the Street Cabinet is to make streets safe and comfortable for all users”, said Chief of Streets Jascha Franklin-Hodge. “We’re pleased to partner with the Disabilities Commission to increase awareness about the mobility needs of people with disabilities and promote safety for our bike infrastructure. We continue to ensure that their needs are prioritized as we make Boston a more inclusive place to live, work, and visit.”

“This campaign demonstrates that the city of Boston continues to prioritize safety and accessibility for all its pedestrians,” said Jerry Boyd, a member of the Boston Disability Commission Advisory Board. “As a city

resident, I recognize the important role that bikes play within the city’s transportation network; and as a wheelchair user, I hope that this campaign will remind those in the cycling community and the disability community to pay attention to pedestrians around you. This will ensure that our city’s streets and sidewalks remain safe for all.”

Currently, there are about 80,000 Boston residents who identify as having at least one disability, which is about 12% of the city’s general population. This figure grows when you add in older adults, people with injuries or temporary disabilities, as well as visitors and tourists. The Disabilities Commission contracted with Aliste Marketing, a womanowned small business, to design media assets for the Boston Brakes campaign.

For more information about Boston Brakes, including print and digital media, please visit boston.gov/boston-brakes.

Virtual Public Meeting

475-511 Dorchester Avenue

Wednesday, July 19 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Project Proponent: CORE Development

Project Description:

Zoom Link: bit.ly/443Mq3o

Toll Free: (833) 568 - 8864

Meeting ID: 161 949 8348

The proposed development filing is a PDA Master Plan Area comprised of approximately 21 acres of land, bounded generally by Southampton Street to the south, the Southampton/Amtrak rail yards to the west, private property at 365 Dorchester Avenue to the north, and Dorchester Avenue to the east. The development concept will construct twelve (12) new buildings with significant open space and public realm components as a vibrant mixed-use extension of the neighborhood including ground floor retail, residential units with associated amenities, and commercial development including office, lab, and R&D areas with associated mechanical and support spaces. The total development will be constructed in four phases and include approximately 3,771,000 square feet of new commercial and residential buildings. The masterplan includes four (4) new publicly accessible open spaces totaling approximately 2.9 acres, including a new 1.5 acre green space adjacent to a new, realigned D Street.

mail to: Nick Carter

Boston Planning & Development Agency

One City Hall Square, 9th Floor Boston, MA 02201

phone: 617.918.5303

email: nick.carter@boston.gov

Close of Comment Period: 7/26/2023

BostonPlans.org

@BostonPlans

Teresa Polhemus, Executive Director/Secretary

There is Hope continued from front page coordinated approach in middle school grades.

“We use the Massachusetts’ individualized learning plan, known as My Career and Academic Plan (MyCAP), which is both a process and a tool that helps students engage in career and academic planning over several years based on their interests, skills and talents.

We believe this is a breakthrough effort that will provide students, even at this young age, with transformational learning experiences that support self-exploration. Such experiences are especially important for historically marginalized students, including Black and Latino youth, multilingual learners and students with disabilities.

Studies commissioned by the U.S. Department of Labor have concluded that individualized learning plans, usually implemented in high school, represent a “promising practice” for college and career readiness. The next logical step, we felt, was to begin this process earlier in a young person’s development.

Most students don’t even think about careers until well into their high school years; some believe from an early age that their options are limited. The earlier we reach these students, the greater the chance of breaking down bar-

Wu continued from page 7

approvals process from other City departments following BPDA Board approval. Final program parameters will be defined when applications are made available this fall.

The program is planned to be time-limited and will only accept applications through June of 2024. To be eligible, projects must comply with the proposed Inclusionary Zoning standards when approved; and the new Stretch Code’s energy efficiency standards. Applicants will be encouraged to maintain ground floor retail or other public uses. Projects will be required to start construction by October 2025, and will be subject to paying any forgone taxes if these commit -

riers and opening their minds to a wealth of options based on a better understanding of themselves — their skills, their interests and their potential.

MyCAP is now available to more than 25,400 Boston students districtwide, including 9,600 students in grades 6-8. With investments at the school and district levels, and support from business and community partners, philanthropy, higher education and the local school improvement organization EdVestors, Boston Public Schools has been able to create a wide variety of offerings for these young students.

The citywide effort to use MyCAP in the middle grades has made Boston a leader in careerconnected learning in Massachusetts. We believe that Boston’s approach will provide other districts with an example to replicate. When used effectively, MyCAP fosters students’ motivation to persist in school, higher attendance, greater clarity about their postsecondary options and understanding of their own interests.

The MyCAP process encourages students to seek out opportunities for building college, career and life skills in high school, including dual enrollment, early college and capstone projects. MyCAP activities also connect students with real-world experiences that

ments are not met. In order to recoup the forgone tax revenue over time, the City will also require a 2% payment on future sales of the property.

Following the release of a Downtown Revitalization Report released in October of 2022 that showed post-pandemic commercial office space vacancy rates are approximately 20 percent, Downtown neighborhood planners facilitated several conversations with developers to gather information on interest in residential conversions and possible pathways to achieve more housing Downtown. The BPDA also contracted HR&A Advisors Inc. to produce a report on the feasibility of office conversion in

can spark interest, elevate strengths and expand their awareness of what they can do after high school, in college and beyond.

For example, students in one eighth grade classroom took the Myers-Briggs indicator assessment to learn more about themselves and their interests. They later reflected on the results and the suggested best-fit college majors and careers for their personality types.

One student who was assessed as “extroverted” had never considered that their outgoing personality could inform a future job or career in fields like sales, real estate and education.

Expanding MyCAP to middle school has been a collective effort, with teachers, counselors and partners all helping design the foundational experiences. Together, with students as our focus, we’ve identified priorities including skill building and goal setting, high school selection and transition and career and academic pathways.

Ensuring that caring adults are prepared to create welcoming environments for all students is an essential component of the plan. Training adults in anti-racist practices that disrupt biased beliefs about which academic pathways and careers are right for certain students supports that goal.

Our coordinated approach has

Downtown Boston and the Financial District. This research all suggested that partnership from the City was the only financially feasible path forward for private development to complete residential conversions. The study was conducted alongside PLAN: Downtown, the BPDA’s ongoing Downtown planning initiative, a draft of which will be released in August 2023. This program furthers the Plan’s goals to increase residential growth downtown and revitalize the area through a greater mix of uses while also preserving the historic urban fabric that makes Boston’s Downtown so unique.

The program is part of Mayor Wu’s ambitious growth agenda

led to trusting relationships between students and adult staff, including counselors, administrators, teachers and those who work with special education and multilingual learners. We’ve also worked with community partners, such as the 3Point Foundation and College Advising Corps.

One result: A school counselor in our district reports that she’s now having more meaningful conversations with families thanks to exploration activities and skillbuilding experiences like Personal Roadmap, the Naviance Scavenger Hunt and Road Trip Nation videos.

More states, including Kentucky and Rhode Island, are using individualized learning plans in the middle grades, but the momentum needs to keep building.

Districts should realize that positioning middle-grade students as the drivers of their own educational journeys by connecting their course options with their career choices is a worthy investment.”

Mary Skipper is superintendent of the Boston Public Schools; Marinell Rousmaniere is president and CEO of EdVestors, a Bostonbased nonprofit school improvement organization.

This story about career-connected learning was produced by The Hechinger Report, a nonprofit, independent news organization focused on inequality and innovation in education

for Boston, which is focused on advancing the City’s resilience, affordability, and equity goals in order to make Boston the best city in the country to raise a family. The agenda also includes the creation of a City Planning and Design Department operating under the direction of Chief of Planning Arthur Jemison, and the appointment of Katharine Lusk to lead the newly created Planning Advisory Council which was created to coordinate planning processes across City departments. The Mayor also committed to update Boston’s zoning code to create thousands of additional housing units in Boston’s squares and corridors and reform the Article 80 process to increase speed and predictability for development.

South Boston Resident to Walk the Jimmy Fund Walk for the 30th Year in a Row

people who do good work. It’s a no-brainer to keep walking.”

DEDHAM SAVINGS OPENS NEW LOAN OFFICE IN SOUTH BOSTON

Dedham Savings has officially opened its latest location – the South Boston Loan Center – according to an announcement by Peter Brown, President & Chief Executive Officer.

Chief Executive Officer

• Mark Ingalls, Dedham Savings Chief Financial Officer & Chief Operating Officer

• Bob Monahan, South Boston Neighborhood Development Center Board President

South Boston resident, Joseph McCarthy, registered for the Boston Marathon® Jimmy Fund Walk presented by Hyundai for the 30th year in a row in memory of his beloved goddaughter, Amy, who passed away from neuroblastoma at four and a half years old after fighting for two years.

“Amy was a miracle to everyone who knew her,” Joe writes. “After being diagnosed, her spirit and strength got us all through that tough time. No matter what procedure she was having, her infectious personality carried us on.”

The Walk has a special place in Joe’s heart; it means everything to him. He describes the Walk as a magical day: “It is uplifting knowing so many who have survived because of the research tied directly to the Walk. The Walk is important for cancer cures because so many can survive.”

As Joe watched his family fight the deadly disease, he was motivated to begin his decades-long journey to find a cure. Joe explains, “Such good

The 2023 Jimmy Fund Walk will take place on Sunday, October 1, and raises funds to support all forms of adult and pediatric patient care and cancer research at the nation’s premier cancer center, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. Whether participating for themselves, loved ones, neighbors, or co-workers, each walker shares a common purpose: to defy cancer and support breakthroughs that will benefit cancer patients around the world.

Participants have the flexibility to choose from four distance options: 5K walk (from Dana-Farber Cancer Institute’s Longwood Medical campus), 10K walk (from Newton), Half Marathon walk (from Wellesley) or Marathon walk (from Hopkinton). Walkers can also participate virtually by “walking their way” from wherever they are most comfortable—whether that be in their neighborhood, on a favorite hiking trail, or on a treadmill at home.

The Jimmy Fund Walk has raised more than $167 million for Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in its 34year history. The 2023 Walk will be held during the Jimmy Fund’s 75th anniversary year and will aim to raise $9 million in the effort to prevent, treat, and defy cancer. To register for the Walk (#JimmyFundWalk) or to support a walker, visit www. JimmyFundWalk.org or call (866) 531-9255.

Stated Brown, “South Boston is a key market for us, and business developers are eager to work with a local mutual bank like Dedham Savings. We are making this investment in South Boston to support the commercial, small business, and housing sectors and we’ve staffed the office with seasoned bankers who live in and know the neighborhood.”

The new Loan Center is located at 472 West Broadway in South Boston. Situated at an intersection with the busiest Uber drop off/pick up spot in Massachusetts and just down the street from the Broadway T Station, the location will allow Dedham Savings Mortgage and Commercial Lending staff to assist customers seeking home, condo, or business loans. The site includes office and conference room space, as well as a 24-hour ATM, allowing users to get cash, check account balances, make deposits, and transfer funds.

On hand to officially cut the ribbon and open the office were:

• Peter Brown, Dedham Savings President &

• Charles McCarthy, East Way Development

LLC Principal

• Patrick McDevitt, East Way Development

LLC Principal

In addition to the new Loan Center, Dedham Savings has a full-service branch location at 636 East Broadway in South Boston, as well as eight additional full-service locations.

ABOUT DEDHAM SAVINGS

Incorporated in 1831, Dedham Savings is one of the oldest banks in Massachusetts still doing business under its original charter. The Bank delivers technology-driven solutions in a clientcentric way to promote the financial success of the individuals, families, businesses, and nonprofit organizations in the communities it serves. Dedham Savings manages $2.0 billion in assets through full-service locations in Dedham, East Dedham, Needham, Norwood, Sharon, South Boston, Walpole, and Westwood, Massachusetts. Dedham Savings is Member FDIC, Member DIF, and an Equal Housing Lender.

Not all drafts are equal. For example, every sport wishes they were the NFL Draft. It comes with multiple days of hype and picks, in prime time, and in front of a rowdy audience. You’d think NFL Draft weekend was the Super Bowl. The NBA Draft is the only sport whose draft comes close. But even the NBA’s Thursday night, two-round summertime “extravaganza” doesn’t equate to the Broadway Show that Roger Goodell puts on every spring. But Major League Baseball is finally trying to at least get you to pay attention to its draft, which happened this week. So, I’ll give them a little help. Here’s a breakdown of the Boston Red Sox’ top three picks in this year’s MLB Draft, from MLB.com:

-Round 1, Pick 14: Kyle Teel, Catcher:

“Teel was a very good high school prospect in New Jersey, one who was considered a Top 100 talent, until he removed his name from Draft consideration during the pandemic-shortened 2020 season in order to honor his commitment to the University of Virginia. He’s been a full-time starter since he ar-

rived in Charlottesville, putting up better numbers as a freshman than he did as a sophomore and is generally considered to be the top college backstop in the class of 2023. A left-handed-hitting backstop, Teel has the chance to hit for average and power, though he’s gotten caught a bit in between trying to be a hitter with some pop or a power guy. He was more hit over power in high school, but he has been trying to show off the pop more, perhaps a reason why he hit just .276 in 2022, though he’s found the right balance this spring. He does have an advanced approach, walking more than he struck out last year, and while struggles in the Cape Cod League and with Team USA last summer led some to worry about the hit tool, he’s answered them during his junior year. Extremely athletic, Teel has seen time in the outfield and probably could handle playing second or third, but he has every chance to stick behind the plate. He has an easily plus arm and his athleticism helps his overall receiving. He gets high marks for his baseball IQ and leadership skills, and with his bat showing up more consistently, his name is floating up Draft boards.”

-Round 2, Pick 50:

Zanetello, Shortstop:

“Zanetello climbed up Draft boards with a strong showcase circuit, beginning with MVP honors at the Breakthrough Series in June. He stood out in athletic testing at the PDP League in July, raked at the World Wood Bat Association World Championship in October and led Team USA in hitting (.429) at an 18-and-under World Cup qualifying tournament in November. Scouts love his five-tool potential as well as his makeup. Zanetello has a wiry 6-foot-2 frame with room to add more muscle, and his strong hands and wrists produce plenty of bat speed and 25-homer potential. He doesn’t have the prettiest right-handed swing but makes a lot of hard contact. He also shows good control of the strike zone and produced against quality pitching throughout the summer. While Zanetello has clocked run times that earn grades from anywhere from 45 to 70 on the 20-80 scouting scale, the consensus is that he’ll probably have solid speed once he’s physically mature. His athleticism and strong arm help him make plays at shortstop, where he projects as an average defender. The Arkansas commit has looked solid in stints in center field and should provide similar glovework if he shifts to third base.”

-Round 3, Pick 83: Antonio Anderson, Shortstop:

“Jay Austin went in the second round of the 2008 Draft to the Astros, and 15 years later, Anderson could match him as the highest pick in North Atlanta (Ga.) HS history. He has a chance to hit for power and average, though his future defensive home remains in question. The consensus is that his offensive prowess alone will get him drafted high enough to divert him from a commitment to Georgia Tech. Scouts prefer the switch-hitting Anderson’s left-handed swing because he turns it loose more often than his right-handed stroke. He has a balanced approach, shows the ability to make adjustments and can handle breaking balls. With his bat speed and projected strength gains, he should develop at least 20-homer power. Anderson is a fringy runner and lacks the twitchy athleticism to remain at shortstop, his high school position. The best-case scenario is that he becomes an offensive second baseman, though he may not have enough quickness to play up the middle. He does have a strong arm that has clocked fastballs up to 91 mph on the mound, so third base is his likely destination.”

This week, Danny shared his thoughts on the Boston Red Sox draft class of 2023:

Nazzan

BRUINS BRING BACK LUCIC, OPEN FREE AGENCY WITH SEVERAL SIGNINGS

Boston Bruins general manager Don Sweeney wasted no time signing a handful of veterans as free agency officially began last week. But one name jumped out more than the others because of his previous history with the organization: Milan Lucic.

Lucic, 35, returns to the Bruins on a one-year, $1 million deal, which includes $500,000 in performance bonuses.

The physical winger returns after spending the last four seasons with the Calgary Flames, where he had 83 points on 35 goals and 48 assists in 283 games. Prior to his time in Calgary, Lucic played for the Edmonton Oilers from 2016-17 to 2018-19.

Lucic was drafted by the Bruins in the second round of the 2006 NHL Draft. He played his first eight seasons with Boston, and was an important piece to the Bruins’ 2011 Stanley Cup championship.

But after the 2014-15 season the B’s traded Lucic to the Los Angeles Kings, who Lucic played with for only one year, in 2015-16,

Tweet of the Week

before signing with Edmonton.

Now, Lucic returns to Boston, where it all began.

“I’m just so happy to be back,” Lucic told the media. “I feel like I’m coming home. And by no means is this just a reunion for a farewell tour. I’m coming back for the right reasons. I’m coming back to help this team continue to progress and chase a championship. I’m really confident in my abilities to help this team do that.

“I’m looking forward to it really badly because I’ve thought about this moment for the last seven years,” added Lucic. “I’ve been thinking about what it would be like to put on the Spoked-B, Black and Gold again. That’s why I’m so grateful for this opportunity. When you start somewhere, I don’t want to say I took it for granted, because you guys all know me. I lived it and I truly did appreciate what it meant to be a Boston Bruin and living in Boston and playing for an Original Six team and playing in front of those fans every single night.

“It’s almost like I’m more grateful for it now than I was at the beginning because as time goes on, sometimes you don’t know how good things are until it’s gone.”

The Bruins also signed 34-yearold winger James van Riemsdyk

to a one-year $1 million deal, 34-year-old defenseman Kevin Shattenkirk to a one-year $1.05 million deal, and 31-year-old forward Patrick Brown to a two-year $1.6 million deal.

But the one that stole all the headlines was Lucic, and understandably so.

“I just feel like bringing Looch back to Boston was the right thing to do for all the reasons,”

Sweeney told the media. “He feels like he has a lot of juice left and we feel he can provide a real jolt of both enthusiasm and bite to our lineup.

“He can probably create a little bit of space if somebody is breathing down [David Pastrnak’s] neck, so it’s a thing we’ve missed and in a perfect world he never would have left, but those decisions were made and now we bring him back home and we’re happy about it.”

As of last week, Sweeney said he’s still waiting to hear from Patrice Bergeron and David Krejci on their decisions for next season. Will they retire? Or will they return to try and make another run?

With Lucic back in the fold, Sweeney has his fingers crossed for good news soon.

“We still have to hear a final word both from David Krejci and Patrice,”

said Sweeney in his media availability. “So we’ll keep an eye and an ear out for that and cross our fingers that maybe that falls our way.”

Lucic admits that he’s not the same player he was the last time he was here. But he’s looking forward to the challenge of being a veteran leader for a Cup contender.

“I’ve been through a lot and I can help with a leadership role and help with the young guys,” said Lucic. “But also, just bringing it every day, bringing it in practice, bringing it in games and all that type of stuff. That’s something I haven’t lost, I have that fire every day, the competitiveness, whether it’s practice or games, just bringing it every day, bringing it in the gym, all that type of stuff.

“Those are the things that are required of me to bring on a day-today basis, and I’m looking forward to that.”

SBT Staff