South Boston Today July 20 2023

Boston City Councilor Kendra Lara pleaded not guilty to traffic charges stemming from the June crash that left her son injured, a home in Jamaica Plain seriously damaged, and the homeowner accusing the elected official of not caring about the damage she caused.

Lara appeared in court Wednesday where an assistant clerk magistrate found enough evidence to move forward with an arraignment later in the day on multiple charges. Councilor Lara said she is “committed to seeing” the legal process through. “I have faith and trust in the court process, and I will continue to go through it as is required of me,” Lara told reporters outside the courthouse after her arraignment. “My commitment right now and my focus is continuing to represent my constituents in District 6 and making sure that I’m representing them in the best way that I can.”

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Does A Double Standard Exist? We Shall See

Arecent incident involving Boston City Councilor Kendra

Lara made the news last week but only briefly – very briefly. In fact, a New York City Newspaper – The New York Post, gave it more coverage than many local news outlets. According to the (NY) Post “A controversial ‘defund the Boston police Boston City Councilor crashed her car into a house, injuring herself and her 7 year old son”. The Post also made mention of what was listed in the police report and in The Boston Herald. The reports stated that Councilwoman Lara was driving in an unregistered car, without insurance, with a revoked (driver’s) license and an expired inspection sticker. The report also went on to state that her 7-year-old son, Zaire, was not in a booster seat which is required by Massachusetts law for a child of that age.

Lara stated that she had to swerve to avoid another moving vehicle in an effort to avoid a collision with that vehicle. However, the driver of the other car disputed Lara’s claim, saying that he had just barely pulled out of a parking space after Lara’s car went past him at a high rate of speed and crashed through a chain link fence and then into the house causing a great deal of damage to the house. There were injuries to the councilwoman as well as those to her son.

The number of the violations allegedly committed by Councilwoman Lara in this incident are many and they are serious. Will there be an investigation, that is, a ‘REAL’ investigation? We certainly hope so. If an ordinary citizen had committed what she is accused of they would be in serious trouble, as they should be. But the public, after seeing the double standard that so blatantly exists between ‘regular citizens’ and those who have what is believed to be the privilege of rank and office, is skeptical, as well they should be. One only need look at what’s been going on in the Nation’s Capital these past nearly three years and there is plenty of reason for doubt that the playing field is the same for everyone.

In America, citizens are considered innocent until proven guilty. And no matter how apparent and obvious some may think Lara’s alleged offenses are, it’s still up to a court to make the determination of guilt or innocence. But the question is – will these accusations be pursued, or will they sort of just ‘fade away’ because of the councilwoman’s status? It certainly bears watching to see just what followup; if any, there will be.

Councilwoman Lara is on record as wanting to gut the budget of the

Boston Police. She voted to cut a whopping 31 million dollars from that budget. According to reports in the NY Post, she has used Twitter to say she is not only in favor of defunding police but also of abolishing prisons. Does she still hold those views? And if so, does that mean that she’s not very strong on the rule of law? And if true, does that also mean that she feels she shouldn’t be subject to the laws the rest of us have to live by, such as those that she allegedly flaunted as

reported in the recent incident?

These are all reasonable questions that should be asked and answered. If it all turns out to be exactly what news reports and police reports have stated, will she be held to the same standards and hit with the same penalties as the constituents she represents?

We hope that Councilwoman Lara and certainly her 7-year-old son Zaire recover completely from their injuries. But the people of Boston need to know if that suspected ‘double standard’ exists in Boston.

wondering if a glass is half full or half empty. Me, I just drink whatever’s in the glass” - Sophia Petrillo

Are Politicians In California Insane?

In last week’s column I did a review of sorts of what has turned into a surprise and shocking block buster movie called ‘Sound of Freedom’. The response was huge as people were stunned at what they saw. I’m willing to bet that nearly all who saw it wished the story line was fiction because it was so shocking. But it wasn’t. It’s based on a true story of exactly what’s going on regarding the sexual exploitation, kidnapping and trafficking of children in our country and in fact all over the world. And of the dedicated brave Americans and other foreign nationals who are out there –even now, exposing it and rescuing these children. There is plenty of documentation to verify and confirm it’s true and how widespread it is. Famous and popular actor James Caviezel leads an amazing cast and kept the viewing audiences, now numbering in the millions, spellbound with the performances and the story. Hollywood doesn’t want you to see it, the media doesn’t want you to see it, a whole array of other powerful people are doing everything in their power to try to stop you from seeing it. But the more they try, the larger the crowds of viewers become.

This brings us to what’s been going on in California, particularly in that state’s elected legislature. It would be hard to believe, if it wasn’t happening in California.

The Republican members of the legislature crafted a bill that would increase the penalties and prison time of anyone convicted of Child Trafficking. It would make it an even more serious felony. And to their credit, it had the support of some Democrats. But there were enough Democrats opposed to this bill, designed to protect children, to block it. The word of

this spread nationwide and brought outrage from people in every part of the country. Who, and for what reason would anyone, especially elected officials, be opposed to such an effort? Tens of thousands of letters, calls and social media posts from Americans and Canadians poured into Sacramento (state capitol) demanding such opposition be stopped. Plainly put, the public demanded to know ‘what the hell is wrong with you people out there?’ So furious was the reaction that some of the legislators who initially voted to block it, recanted, and changed their votes - enough to keep the bill alive and send it to the full chamber to vote. For liberal politicians to give in to what the public wants is a rare occurrence indeed. But this can give you an idea about just how mad and ticked off the public was and still is about this.

How what’s going on in the California Legislature relates to what the ‘Sound of Freedom’ film touches on can be explained this way: Why? Why are there actually people in positions of power, authority and influence who are not only trying to block attempts to expose and put an end to Child Trafficking, but in some cases even attempting to make it less of a crime? ‘Sound of Freedom’ has been described as the beginning of shining a light on the insidious swamp and sewer that this crime truly is and those who partake in and profit from it. By uncovering what’s going on for all the world to finally see, it begins the process of tearing down the vast network that it is. Who would be opposed to that and why? And that’s the question the public is now demanding answers to. And that’s why ‘Sound of Freedom’

was such a massive success at the box office.

Most Americans know what California’s liberal politicians turned that state into. To put it as nicely as I can without using graphic terms, it’s a Socialist, bordering on Communist, nut farm that’s so bad that the fastest growing business there is the truck and van rental companies that the sane people are using to pack up and leave by the tens of thousands. At this point, the only thing it still seems to have going for it is the weather. But don’t think it’s just California that’s turned into a depraved third world country. If

given the opportunity, the odds are there are so called ‘progressive’ politicians and others in power in other states, including Massachusetts, who would also vote to block a bill from becoming law to give serious prison time to child traffickers and couldn’t care less what the public wants.

The way some politicians behave brings to mind the now famous quote by Senator Rand Paul (R. Kentucky): “We should never forget that the Constitution wasn’t written to restrain the citizens’ behavior, it was written to restrain the government’s behavior”.

John Ciccone

The Cost Of Green

Massachusetts needs a mass remodel for most of its roughly 2 million buildings in its quest to cut carbon emissions — but at what cost?

“It’s a good question,” said Matt Walsh, policy analyst at the Metropolitan Area Planning Council. And it’s lingering on the minds of proponents and critics alike as state leaders prepare to roll out funding to help property owners shoulder the cost of green upgrades.

Buildings and homes are the state’s second-biggest polluters after fossil-fuel-guzzling cars and trucks. To help meet state climate goals, a report estimates at least 500,000 residences and

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.

300 million square feet of aging commercial space will need to switch to energy-efficient electric heating — and that’s just by the end of this decade. The goal is to eventually retrofit all existing buildings. One thing is clear: “The scale of investment we are going to need here in Massachusetts is in the billions of dollars, not millions,” said MAPC clean energy specialist Brooks Winner.

Proponents of a proposed $300 million Zero Carbon Renovation Fund pitched as a “downpayment” to jumpstart efforts to wean the Bay State’s existing homes and buildings off of non-renewable energy. The 170 organizations — including

MAPC — backing the fund, which would be managed by the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center, say it’s too early to put a number on the total cost of upgrades needed. “Once we get some of these projects under our belt, we’ll know what the true costs are,” said Walsh. With buildings accounting for one-third of the state’s total carbon emissions, cleanenergy upgrades are a big part of the state’s plan to meet its 2050 net-zero climate goals.

A spokeswoman for Gov. Maura Healey admitted “decarbonizing our buildings won’t be easy.” A robust workforce build-up as plumbers, HVAC technicians and builders are called en masse to tackle as

many as 100,000 retrofits a year by the end of the decade. Funding assistance for owners, residents, and businesses looking to upgrade includes: rebates through MassSave, a so-called “green-bank” Healey said would offer low-interest loans to entice climate investors and a $50 million grant program to retrofit affordable housing. Investment so far has barely put a chip in the tip of the iceberg, but Walsh said the proposed fund, if approved, would set up future efforts for federal funding. Low-to-moderate income people and environmental justice populations will be “first in line.”

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FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 29 – SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 30

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.

MARISSA WALSH RECEIVES 2023 COMMONWEALTH HEROINE AWARD

The Massachusetts Commission on the Status of Women recognized South Boston resident Marissa Walsh as a Commonwealth Heroine as part of the 20th Annual Commonwealth Heroines, Class of 2023. The Commonwealth Heroine Award is presented to women who have a significant, positive influence in their communities, improving the lives of others and making the most of their time, ability, and passion. The Commonwealth Heroine Awards provide the opportunity to acknowledge and honor these outstanding individuals who constantly work to strengthen their community. Each year the Commission partners with state legislators to identify women who are making extraordinary contributions in their communities but not necessarily making the news.

This year, Marissa Walsh was nominated by State Representative David Biele for her dedication and efforts to support the most vulnerable in South Boston, while supporting local youth organizations and veterans. For years, Marissa has been a constant fixture at the annual Msgr. Tom McDonnell and Frank Kelley Thanksgiving and Christmas Dinners, preparing thousands of holiday dinners for neighbors who would otherwise go without a hot meal. Outside of the holiday season, Marissa has been an active supporter

of multiple youth organizations, including the Perry School, the South Boston Girl Scouts, and South Boston Pop Warner, while also leading efforts to collect donations for the New England Center and Home for Veterans.

“I’m honored and humbled to have received this award,” said Marissa Walsh. “There are so many women in South Boston who serve our community on a daily basis and for me to be chosen is truly an honor.”

“I was proud to nominate Marissa Walsh as a Commonwealth Heroine for her many contributions over the years to the South Boston community,” said Rep. Biele. “Marissa has invested her time and talents to provide thousands of Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners for neighbors in need, ensuring no one in our community goes hungry on the holi days. She has also helped foster positive youth development through her work with the Perry School and Girl Scouts and goes the extra mile to support our veterans in South Boston and beyond. I’m grateful for Marissa’s efforts to support our community and her steadfast dedication to helping others.”

Marissa was honored as a Commonwealth Heroine alongside over one hundred other Massachusetts women for their civic leadership and service that improves the lives of residents in their communities.

Before you fly a drone, learn the rules to keep everyone safe. Those who break the law could be fined.

• Register your drone

• Take the FAA’s Recreational UAS Safety Test

• Flying near airports is prohibited without prior FAA approval

• Never fly near any aircraft

• Keep your drones in sight below 400 feet at all times

• Comply with Remote ID rules

• Learn the rules about flying over people

• Download the B4UFLY app

I Was Just Thinking…

Oakland Alameda County District Attorney Pamela Price has angered residents, public safety advocates and families of victims who disagree with her agenda to promote lenient sentences for serious felonies.

Price doesn’t think her responsibility is to enforce laws and those who commit crimes shouldn’t be locked up.

“The DA’s role has really no impact on crime,” said Price. “To create a safe community, we need to invest in alternatives to incarceration.”

Really?

A safe community?

Traveling to San Francisco, Walgreens decided they needed to lock up their ice cream chests. Thieves were coming in and stealing items up to twenty times a day until it was decided to freeze the freezers.

I guess the next step will be for the criminals to smash the freezers with sledgehammers.

Why not?

They can do it without suffering any repercussions.

by Kevin Devlin

Crime is out of control in our country and it’s only going to get worse because the criminals know they can do as they please without repercussions. They know liberal district attorneys don’t want them to do the time because they’ve committed a crime. In the name of social justice, they want to find alternative ways to solve this problem as they elevate criminals to victim status in this (upside-down) world they envision.

Birds of a feather continued from front page Lara was charged with permitting bodily injury to a child under 14 years old, negligent operation of a motor vehicle, reckless operation of a motor vehicle, speeding, driving with a suspended license, driving an uninsured vehicle, driving an unregistered vehicle, failing to wear a seat belt, and not placing a child under 8 years old and under 58 inches in a car seat.

First Assistant Clerk Magistrate Paul Troy added on two other charges — negligent operation of a motor vehicle and permitting injury to a child — during the hearing. Her attorney Carl Williams unsuccessfully tried to get them dismissed. Judge Kathleen Coffey ordered Lara to not drive a vehicle without a valid driver’s license, while her case plays out in court. Prosecutors declined to seek cash bail and Lara was released from court on personal recognizance. Lara is due back in court on August 16 for a pre-trial hearing to argue over motions to dismiss filed by her attorney.

Observers around the courthouse had a variety of comments but expressed their amazement that the

What exactly would those alternatives to incarceration be?

And how can a community be safe if perpetrators are allowed to do what they please, whenever they please, to satisfy their criminal needs?

Failing to provide justice for victims no longer among us, as well as their family and friends, does not promote social justice as Price would want us to believe. It is wrong and will continue unchecked because criminal elements understand they can literally get away with murder and not suffer the consequences of their actions.

Councilor didn’t appear to confront the reality of the evidence presented. Nor, it appears, did those other elected officials who appeared in court support of her. One person there was overheard saying, ‘what kind of message does this behavior send to young kids and others that she acts as though the rules don’t apply to her’.

In the context of that expressed sentiment, what does it say about the presence of other elected officials from the communities of color who showed up to court to support her, including Councilors Ricardo Arroyo, Julia Mejia, and Tania Fernandes Anderson, as well as State Representative Russell Holmes. It is not unfair to note that the collective behavior of these councilors is not what those who voted for them actually bargained for in 2021. Nor was it ostensibly the expectation of the Boston Globe and prominent endorsers of their presumed or self-proclaimed ‘progressive’ values. Mayor Michelle Wu could or should have been prepared for their collective use, misuse, or abuse of their supposed power quotient. The apparent or de facto disdain for rules seems to be

Next stop is New York City. Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg admitted “…when one of my family members gets on the train, I, too, get a knot in my stomach,” But that isn’t going to make him modify his progressive, soft-on crime views.

And finally, New York City Mayor Eric Adams, who blamed the media for blowing crime in his city out of perspective. He asserts the media is to blame which distorts the “psyche” of New Yorkers. Obviously New Yorkers don’t know any better and shouldn’t listen to the media or be troubled by what they really see on the streets of New York City.

Disregard the deeds of the local

at the root of the dysfunction plaguing city hall.

Her crash is one of several scandals that have plagued the city council in recent months. The crash touched off a review of parking procedures at City Hall, where City Council President Ed Flynn required officials to submit a parking application with proof of a valid driver’s license. City officials said Lara “regularly” drove a dark gray Honda Civic to work even though she was barred from driving.

A police report said Lara was driving an uninsured, unregistered car that belonged to Somerville resident Thomas Owens with a revoked license, exceeding the posted speed limit of 25-mileper-hour. Lara said she crashed into the house after swerving to avoid a parked car that was pulling into the street. The driver of that car said he activated his turn signal but did not pull out into the street because he saw Lara approaching at a “high rate of speed,” according to the police report. At the scene, the driver stated that he was barely out of the parking spot along the curb and barely in motion when he noticed a car driving down the street from behind him at a

shoplifter.

Forget about the druggies and the homeless who are practically everywhere.

Don’t be worried about the aggressive panhandler in the subway or the knife-wielding madman running around Times Square.

It’s all a mirage.

Not to worry.

Your mind is playing tricks on you.

Yet I wonder how Mayor Adams feels after the recent shootings in the Big Apple in which five teens were shot, and one died, in a twelve-hour span.

Siena College polling which just came out shows New Yorkers are “absolutely terrified about rising crime,” with seventy-percent reporting they’re “very” or “somewhat” worried “about being victimized.” And almost ten percent say, “they’ve been physically assaulted or robbed in just the last year.”

With summer in full throttle, the heat is on in America.

And it’s time the heat was put on criminals so they’ll abide by societal rules or suffer the consequences of their criminality and law-abiding citizens can enjoy safe and secure lives.

high rate of speed, the police report said. Georgia Kalogerakis, the owner of the damaged Jamaica Plain home, said, “she should acknowledge her actions and what they caused and give some consideration to correcting them or providing for the damage,” Kalogerakis said inside the Roxbury courthouse. “The car hit the foundation of my house, it moved the porch over, forget about the bush and the fence. She has to be accountable.” Lara’s driving record shows multiple violations and sanctions, including several in Connecticut, and a police report offers more insight into the councilor’s driving history.

A report from a Boston Police Department auto investigator said Lara was issued a citation in August 2010 for not having a registration in her possession and failing to wear a seatbelt. Her license was suspended in April 2013 after failing to pay fines or costs associated with not wearing a seatbelt. This saga will continue and could likely affect councilor Lara’s re-election this September, and perhaps those of the other councilors mentioned above.

City releases 2023-2029 Open Space and Recreation Plan

The Boston Parks and Recreation Department has announced the official release of the 2023-2029 Open Space and Recreation Plan (OSRP). The plan provides an analysis of the existing open space network and offers a framework for open space protection and expansion in response to city growth and recreational needs.

The OSRP is available at boston. gov/open-space-plan with reference copies at both the central Boston Public Library in Copley Square and Boston Parks and Recreation Department headquarters at 1010 Massachusetts Avenue.

The newly-released 2023-2029 Open Space and Recreation Plan offers a framework for open space protection and expansion.

The OSRP is a wide-ranging document, updated every seven years, that provides a comprehensive property inventory of all open space, regardless of ownership, and analyzes those spaces to understand how they are meeting the open

space needs of city residents and where improvements are necessary.

“This document delineates Boston’s vision for open space and recreation,” noted Boston Parks Commissioner Ryan Woods. “Our Design and Construction team encouraged residents to participate so that their voices would be heard as we examined our priorities in handling these valuable resources. The resulting plan looks at the broad range of uses and values of urban open space from local playgrounds to rare ecosystems and provides a blueprint for the need to plan ahead and manage our open space development in a way that benefits all.”

The Parks Department assessed the current and potential future open space system through data analysis, policy review, research, geospatial modeling and mapping (including 49 maps), and public input. Because open spaces are central to the health, resilience and livability of Boston, this report brings together work from

related projects such as the Urban Forest Plan, Heat Resilience Solutions for Boston, the Climate Ready Boston reports and the Parcel Priority Plan.

The Parcel Priority Plan is a complementary Parks Department planning project that identifies the potential open space value of parcels throughout the city to consider for open space protection or acquisition. These planning efforts all share fundamental objectives to improve quality of life while preparing for climate change.

The OSRP lays out a Seven-Year Action Plan that will guide the City’s open space-related work heading towards 2030. The plan will inform park improvement projects, park system expansion, programming, operations, and ongoing policy work.

Preserving, protecting, and improving Boston’s varied open spaces are goals of the OSRP.

Stay up to date with news, events, and improvements in Boston parks by

signing up for our email list at bit.ly/ Get-Parks-Emails and following our social channels @bostonparksdept on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.

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

New England Council President, Jim Brett, also Chairman of the President’s Committee for People with Intellectual Disabilities, was named to the Presidential Delegation representing President Biden at the Special Olympics World Games in Berlin, Germany.

email: stephen.j.harvey@boston.gov

Close of Comment Period: 8/4/2023

Mary Davis, CEO of Special Olympics Olaf Scholz, Chancellor of the Federal Republic of Germany Jim Brett, President and CEO, New England Council

Guy The Wine

The Other Beaujolais

Beaujolais is one of the most enjoyed wines in France. It’s loved because it can be enjoyed all year round, at room temperature for most of the year and chilled in the summer months. When Beaujolais is mentioned nearly everyone thinks of the young, fruity red wine. Today, though, I’d like to introduce you to the other one-the white Beaujolais. It’s delicious, affordable, and versatile in its pairing with all kinds of food. Here are a few worth considering….

Famille Jambon Domaine Thulon Beaujolais Villages Blanc 2019 ($19.99) Here’s a fresh and tangy Beaujolais Blanc to whet your palate. Made by Domaine de Thulon, a winery established by Annie and René Jambon in 1987, the Chardonnay is brisk with acidity and fruity apple character, complemented by mineral texture. This one is a natural with your

favorite summer cheese and salad, as well as grilled chicken and just about any seafood you can think of.

Chauvet Frères,Beaujolais Blanc, 2021, ($18.99). The Beaujolais Blanc Chauvet is produced on two parcels in the south of the region. The first, located in the Pierres Dorées, gives the wine a zesty aspect coming from the limestone soils. The second, with granitic soil in the area of Montmelas, brings elegant mineral notes. Thanks to this blend, the Beaujolais Blanc Chauvet is able to compete with the most prestigious Cru of the region. This wine has a beautiful golden color and a bouquet of aromas with white peach, apricot and hints of white flowers. It’s crisp, but also presents a fullness on the palette. This wine is very pleasant, bright and mineral, with a good length.

Daniel Bouland, Beaujolais Blanc, 2021, ($29.99). This wine has a beautiful golden color and a bouquet of aromas with white peach, apricot and hints of hawthorn. It is crisp but also presents a fullness and an astonishing amplitude. This wine is very pleasant, bright and mineral with a good length.

2021 Jean-Paul Brun Beaujolais Blanc ($22.99). What do some of the top wine critics and writers have to say about this one? A lot! The Wine Advocate said this wine “offers sensational value and a distinctively delicious personality such as you won’t find in 98% or more Chardonnays grown anywhere in the world.” Decanter chimed in too, calling it a “wine

of lovely purity of flavor.” I couldn’t have put it any better myself!

Vigneron Jean-Paul Brun is a maverick, an outsider, and a rulebreaker, and that’s what I like about him. His estate is just north of Lyon, he farms all of his vines organically, his yields are low, he ferments with native yeasts, and he bottles with minimal fining/filtration. Practices such as these are not exactly common in Beaujolais, where many producers choose a simpler path.

Something that really marks JeanPaul as a renegade is the fact that he had a special, horizontal tank made to ferment this wine in. The shape of the tank ensures closer contact between the wine and the lees (yeast cells), and this contributes lovely texture and a gentle spiciness to the wine. To my knowledge, no other producer uses a fermentation vessel such as this. Despite the “no-oak treatment,” this is still a rich, layered, and voluminous Chardonnay. The nose is laced with pear, white peach, golden apple, and oyster shell minerality leading into a rich yet fresh and textured palate. It “behaves” a lot like a top-flight Pouilly-Fuisse, but it costs a lot less.

I try a lot of wines, including topflight White Burgundies and Chardonnays, from all over the world. I can honestly say that this one is better than many that cost two to three times the price.

Triangle Wine Company Chateau de Pizay Beaujolais Blanc, ($21.99). The Beaujolais Blanc appellation

represents less than 5% of Beaujolais production. Its rich and deep gold coat is haloed with green reflections. The aromatic opening settles on fresh nuances of green tea, almost minty. Candied citrus fruits follow caramelized pineapple; a zest of orange, bitter perhaps. Delicate woody background, without a toasted mask, scents of propolis, beeswax mixed with blond honey, acacia and spring flowers come back fresh.

Jean-Marc Burgaud Beaujolais Villages Blanc ,2021, ($22.99). The Chardonnay grapes for Jean-Marc’s Beaujolais Villages Blanc come from a one-hectare site on clay soil in Lantignié. The Gamay previously planted here didn’t produce the sort of wines Jean-Marc was looking for and he decided it would be better suited to Chardonnay, so in 2010 replanted the vineyard. This unoaked Beaujolais Blanc is expressive with notes of citrus and stone fruits on the nose. The palate is bright and lively with racy acidity giving this wine wonderful freshness.

Ken Turner Retires From The Boston Police Dept.

It was Saturday, July 8th, when a large crowd of family and friends gathered to help Kenny Turner celebrate his retirement from the Boston Police Department. The location was the Old Colony Yacht Club’s function hall in Dorchester. The Evening was warm and humid, as the crowd got there early and waited for Ken’s arrival. It was a surprise. Everyone did a great job

of keeping the secret. When Ken finally arrived and walked through the doors of the hall, the crowd rose up, yelled “SURPRISE” at the top of their lungs and the party was on.

Ken Turner, a veteran who spent 4 years in the United State Coast Guard, went right to work for the Suffolk County Sheriff’s Department on his return home. After a year with the Sheriff’s Department, he began

his career as a Boston Police Officer. He served the City of Boston for 28 years on the BPD finishing out at the rank of Sergeant Detective. By every account, he did an outstanding job, won commendations for his work, and had what can truly be described as a ‘Stella’ career.

Ken’s priority in life is being a good family man. He’s a husband, a father, son, and brother. He was born

and raised in South Boston, was and still is an excellent hockey player. For years he played as a member of the South Boston Youth Hockey League, played hockey for South Boston High School and played as well for one of the US Coast Guard’s Hockey teams.

Ken may now be retired from the BPD, but he has no intention

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Turner continued from page 9

of hanging around and taking it easy. That’s just not in his DNA. He and his wife Stacey have plans which will begin by going

on a cruise. Once he and Stacey get a bit of travelling out of their systems, Ken plans to begin the next stage of what’s sure to be an active life.

If one were to describe the type of person Ken Turner is, it would consist of terms like friendly, outgoing, loyal to family and friends, helpful to all in need and

an all around happy person and a good man. We wish Ken the best as he begins new career opportunities and what’s sure to be a continuing adventure.

Window continued from page 5

Not a drill: State House evacuated, shuttered due to fire

The State House will stay closed on Wednesday “out of an abundance of caution” after a fire in a basement electrical room yesterday afternoon triggered alarms and a full evacuation, officials said. The People’s

House was largely unscathed in the blaze that spread smoke and concerns of carbon monoxide but was contained to the basement. The investigation into the cause of the apparent electrical fire is ongoing.

Boston Fire Commissioner Paul Burke told reporters outside the State House that high voltage wires

feeding into a transformer in the basement began burning, causing the fire shortly after 2 p.m. A tweet from Boston Fire confirmed a transformer ignited. Firefighters escorted State House employees back inside for their belongings, though the building remained closed all afternoon.

Big spender: Gov. Maura Healey spent $83,000 on Ireland trip Gov. Maura Healey racked up more than $83,000 in charges during her state visit to Ireland last month. The trade trip, which was largely covered with state funds dedicated to tourism and a technology-focused public agency, reports Chris Van Buskirk for The Boston Herald.

It’s finally been made official. After much speculation and rumors, the MLS announced last weekend that one of the greatest soccer players in the world, Lionel Messi, is leaving Paris Saint-Germain and turning down lucrative offers from Saudi Arabia, in order to sign with Inter Miami CF in Major League Soccer.

Here’s a portion of the press release on the MLS website: “Lionel Messi has formally joined Inter Miami CF, as the club announced Saturday, they’ve signed the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner and FIFA World Cup champion. The Argentine superstar, who will occupy a Designated Player slot, is under contract with Inter Miami through the 2025 Major League Soccer season. ‘I’m very excited to start this next step in my career with Inter Miami and in the United States,” said Messi. “This is a fantastic opportunity and together we will continue to build this beautiful project. The idea is to work together to achieve the objectives we set, and I’m very eager to start helping here in my new home.” It’s a great move for MLS, as

Messi, who turned 36 in June, is still capable of playing at an elite level, as you saw in last year’s World Cup.

Messi will now have the difficult task of trying to get Inter Miami out of the basement of the MLS standings. But many are hopeful this will be a match made in heaven, both for the club, the league, and ultimately, the sport. “We are overjoyed that the greatest player in the world chose Inter Miami CF and Major League Soccer, and his decision is a testament to the momentum and energy behind our League and our sport in North America,” said MLS Commissioner Don Garber. “We have no doubt that Lionel will show the world that MLS can be a League of Choice for the best players in the game. We look forward to seeing his debut for Inter Miami in our Leagues Cup tournament later this month.”

Inter Miami is co-owned by David Beckham, who made the jump to the LA Galaxy as a player back in 2007. Now, he’s contributing to the MLS once again by recruiting and finalizing a major deal with one of the world’s best

players. “Ten years ago, when I started my journey to build a new team in Miami, I said that I dreamt of bringing the greatest players in the world to this amazing city,” said Beckham. “Players who shared the ambition I had when I joined LA Galaxy to help grow football in the USA and to build a legacy for the next generation in this sport that we love so much. “Today that dream came true,” added Beckham. “I couldn’t be prouder that a player of Leo’s caliber is joining our club, but I am also delighted to welcome a good friend, an amazing person and his beautiful family to join our Inter Miami community. The next phase of our adventure starts here, and I can’t wait to see Leo take to the pitch.”

Inter Miami’s managing owner shared the same feelings of joy, in a great moment for American soccer. “I am honored to welcome Leo Messi and his family to their new home,” said Jorge Mas, Inter Miami CF managing owner. “In 2018, we made a promise to build an ambitious club that would attract the world’s elite players. A club that would transform the global view of fútbol in the

United States and ensure that wherever fútbol is discussed, your Inter Miami is part of the conversation. A heartfelt thank you to our fans that never stopped believing. Together we will continue to turn dreams into reality.”

On Tuesday, Messi took part in his first open-door training session with his new club. He’ll make his debut on Friday night at 8 p.m., and it can be seen on Apple TV. Am I going to get Apple TV to watch this? If there’s a free trial, I probably will. And who knows, maybe it will be so good that I’ll be hooked. I’ll report back. Messi will be wearing No. 10. You can pre-order the jersey in either pink or black at MLSStore.com. The jerseys range anywhere from $125 to $195. It’s a cool looking jersey, but that’s a little pricey, if you ask me. Still, you know they’re probably going to sell out quickly. So get them while you can.

I don’t usually do soccer talk, but this is certainly a big moment for the league and the sport. I support it. Who will make the jump next?

Follow Danny on instagram @ DannyPicard.

This week, Danny shared his thoughts on Lionel Messi officially signing to play in the United States:

WHAT TO WATCH

HOPKINS CHOOSES TITANS OVER PATRIOTS

It’s not the news that Mac Jones was hoping for.

Free agent wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins has signed a two-year deal with the Tennessee Titans, with a base salary of $12 million in Year 1 that could reach $15 million with incentives.

Hopkins, 31, had reportedly narrowed his options down to the Titans and New England Patriots, but over the weekend, Hopkins tweeted a photo of him and Titans run -

Tweet of the Week

ning back Derrick Henry. He also tweeted, “I always loved having haters and doubters but I appreciate it even more now. Titan up!!”

The Arizona Cardinals released Hopkins back in May. The Patriots now seem to be set with their current wide receiver core, consisting of JuJu Smith-Schuster, DeVante Parker, Tyquan Thornton, Kendrick Bourne, and Kayshon Boutte, along with tight ends Hunter Henry and Mike Gesicki.

However, the Patriots’ offense might not be completely set just yet. According to the Vegas odds, the Patriots are the current favorite to sign free agent running back Dalvin Cook, formerly of the Minnesota Vikings. New England’s odds to sign Cook are +150. The Miami Dolphins have the second-best odds to sign Cook, at +200, with the New York Jets at +400.

In recent weeks, the Patriots have

PATRIOTS ANNOUNCE 2023 TRAINING CAMP DATES

Football is almost here.

The New England Patriots will officially begin training camp next week in Foxboro. The team announced their training camp schedule this week. Here’s the press release from the team’s website:

“The countdown to kickoff for the upcoming NFL season is underway, with veteran players reporting to training camp on Tuesday, July 25. The team will conduct their first training camp practices on Wednesday, July 26 on the grass fields behind Gillette Stadium. All outdoor training camp practices are open to the public and free to attend. The Patriots also confirmed open practices on Thursday, July 27 and Friday, July 28. The team’s fourth open practice will be held that weekend on either Saturday, July 29 or Sunday, July 30. All practice times and dates will be updated once confirmed in

the days leading into training camp on the Patriots training camp website, and on the Patriots and Gillette Stadium apps.

This year marks the 63rd annual training camp for the Patriots, including their 21st consecutive camp at Gillette Stadium. New England Patriots 2023 Training Camp is presented by Optum.

Fans who plan to attend practices are encouraged to check the Patriots website or app for daily updates. Fans can also call the training camp hotline for updates at (508) 549-0001.

In addition, the Patriots announced that they will hold joint practice sessions at Green Bay on Wednesday, Aug. 16 and Thursday, Aug. 17 prior to the preseason game at Lambeau Field on Saturday, Aug. 19 and at Tennessee on Tuesday, Aug. 22 and Wednesday 23 prior to the preseason-finale against the Titans on Friday, Aug. 25.”

signed several players to extensions, including Parker, who agreed to a new three-year, $33 million deal with the Pats, which includes $14 million in guarantees and pergame bonuses, according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport.

New England also agreed to terms on a new two-year $18.75 million contract extension with linebacker Ja’Whaun Bentley, which includes $9 million fully guaranteed, according to Rapoport.

RED SOX NOTES: STORY TO BEGIN

REHAB ASSIGNMENT

Trevor Story has been sidelined all season long, thanks to right elbow surgery. But according to Red Sox manager Alex Cora, the 30-yearold shortstop is set to begin a minor-league rehab assignment this weekend.

Story had the elbow surgery in the offseason, and it was expected that he would miss most of 2023. He’ll join DoubleA Portland on Friday, and the initial plan is for Story to play five innings at shortstop on

Friday, while getting at-bats as the DH on Saturday, followed by five more innings at shortstop on Sunday.

This rehab assignment for Story is expected to last at least three weeks.

“He feels ready, and this is more about him than anything else,” Cora told reporters this week. “We’re not cutting corners on the rehab. We just feel like right now is the time to go, and let’s see how long it takes. This is not a one-week thing. We want him to get his feet under, bounce back after nine innings, all that stuff. This is just the beginning, but it feels good just to know that he’s going to go out and play.”

SBT Staff