South Boston Today September 21 2023

Lots To Do All Over Boston

In August, A group of bikers descended on a busy Boston highway over the weekend, and video shows them popping wheelies, doing donuts, and disrupting traffic before making a speedy exit. Massachusetts State Police said around 40 riders on motorcycles and street bikes came rolling down the Leverett Connector Bridge around 3:30 p.m. Saturday, doing donuts and blocking traffic. Troopers on patrol responded, but the riders were gone by the time they arrived.

After the incident, someone in the biker community who wishes to stay anonymous spoke to NBC10 Boston saying what happened over the weekend was a “stunt scene,” adding that these bikers were doing it to show police they need local lots to ride in. The man, who claims he was there this weekend but didn’t participate, said this was both a fun activity for the group and also one used to get back at police.

“Basically, they’re just saying that all

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Radicals On The Boston City Council Make The City Less Safe

There was a story in this week’s Boston Herald titled ‘Flaherty Slams Boston City Council For Rejecting Police Intel Funds’. The story went on to tell how Boston City Councilor Michael Flaherty took another swipe at his colleagues on the council who voted against accepting 2.5 million dollars in state grants for the investigative arm of the city’s police department. The vote was 7-5 to reject those funds by the usual cast of characters on the council who don’t even try to hide their disdain for the BPD and in fact law enforcement in general. That ‘Intel’ money would be specifically designated to fight crime, gangs, and terrorism. Without those funds, the Boston Regional Intelligence Center (BRIC) will be unable to operate at least properly.

Now, reasonable people would see that funding as a priority. No one has to be reminded that people in inner cities, including Boston, are increasingly living in dangerous times. That crime, terrorism and gangs the funding would be used for would go to combat all three. Ah, but realizing it as a priority is, as we said, something ‘reasonable people’ see as being very much needed. And unfortunately, the current make-up of the Boston City Council does not have a majority of reasonable people. Let’s not mince words here. Let’s just call them what they are – leftist radicals. They seem to see every issue; no matter what the issue, through racial lenses. Some even see police enforcement as ‘racially discriminatory’. At this newspaper, we have no hesitation and certainly no fear of call-

ing out, by name, elected officials who make stupid decisions, especially those who vote along ideological lines rather than what’s best for the people they are supposed to be representing. These elected officials are doing their constituents a huge disservice by not voting to protect the vulnerable residents that they claim to represent. Listen to your neighborhoods and stop playing racial politics!

Those voting against the state funding were Councilors; Sharon Durkan, Brian Worrell, Ricardo (Ricky) Arroyo, Julia Mejia, Kendra Lara, Ruthzee Louejeune and Gabriela (Gigi) Colleta. Colleta’s vote was not only a disappointment, but it was also a surprise. Councilor Anderson was absent from the vote. Those Councilors voting with common sense and for what’s best for this

city were Council President Flynn, Councilors Flaherty, Baker, Braedon and Murphy.

Among the councilors who voted against the police Intel Funding were some who not only voted to cut 31 million Dollars from the Police budget as a whole, but also voted to cut $900,000 dollars from Veteran’s Services. Thankfully, the mayor vetoed both.

When elected officials vote against the best interests of those who reside here, they do a disservice and aren’t doing what they were elected to do. But they apparently don’t care. The overwhelming majority of people in all of Boston’s neighborhoods don’t want less police resources, they want more. Their safety depends on it.

Thankfully, two of those councilors who voted against police funding, Lara

and Arroyo lost their bid for re-election in the recent primary. Unfortunately, Boston is stuck with them until their current term is over come January. We can only hope they’ll be replaced with members who understand that they work for the people, NOT the other way around. It’s also unfortunate that Boston will be losing two of the councilors who understand that they are there to serve their constituents and have always conducted themselves with dignity and possess common sense. Councilors Mike Flaherty and Frank Baker have announced that they will retire at the end of this term. We hope their replacements as well as those the voters pick to replace Lara and Arroyo understand that if Boston is to survive as a viable city, the last thing it needs is more leftist radicals in public office.

Remember, Martha’s Vineyard Was A Sanctuary –Until The Plane Arrived

To put a saying that fits what’s going on in cities all over the country in words that can be printed here: “The mud has hit the fan” I’m talking about the total ‘MUD’ show that Biden and the Democrats’ Open Borders policy has brought down on our country. Liberal mayors and governors who were thrilled at the flood of migrants pouring over the southern border and smiling broadly at what it was causing in Texas, Arizona, New Mexico and other border states aren’t smiling any longer. They are now in shock at what has happened. Because now, their cities and states are being overrun too. It’s no longer someone else’s problem – it’s theirs, as well. And they don’t know what to do with it. As the new saying goes: ‘Sanctuary cities don’t want to be sanctuary cities anymore’.

All of a sudden, those yard signs and window placards that read ‘No one is illegal’ and ‘Welcome Migrants’ have strangely disappeared. Crowds of people in Manhattan, that at one time demonstrated in favor of open borders are now massing in the streets chanting ‘send them home’. It’s amazing how quickly feelings change when they become personally impacted by their hospitals and schools getting overrun, tents popping up on their children’s’ soccer fields and millions of their tax dollars going to house people in the local hotels, armories, school gyms and community centers. And yes folks, when crime suddenly becomes even worse. And the waves of migrants continue to come. New York City Mayor Adams, one of the biggest advocates

of open borders is in a panic, begging for federal aid AND demanding that Biden and his puppet masters secure that border while continuing to shriek that what is happening will destroy his city. YA THINK?

Here in Massachusetts, the governor, Maura Healy, another advocate of illegal immigration has declared a ‘state of emergency’ and is pleading for citizens to make room for the migrants in their homes. She of course hasn’t done it and won’t do it herself and neither will few, if any of the Massachusetts liberals who were once so passionate for the country to be flooded with illegal immigrants but are now strangely silent. I suspect they are silent so as not to attract attention to themselves, so they don’t receive illegals in their communalities.

Those cities and towns selected to provide housing and benefits are Taunton, Braintree, Holyoke, Revere and Saugus to name a few. Are Cambridge, Brookline and Amherst and the other woke liberal pro-open border towns on the reception committee on that list? Can pigs fly? One only need look at what happened on Martha’s Vineyard. Remember, Martha’s Vineyard was absolutely a big advocate of open borders. It was a ‘Welcoming Sanctuary Community’, until the plane arrived. They called out the troops and removed them within 48 hours. The Democrats responded faster there, than they did in Benghazi – much faster as we all know.

As the floodgates continue to remain open at the border and cities are now in turmoil, taxpayers are becoming furious. And no, it isn’t just Republicans and Conservative Independents who are

upset, it’s Americans of all backgrounds; including Hispanics who came to this country legally. Even many leftist radicals, including, of all people, the former governor of New York Andrew Cuomo, once an advocate for open border and against the building of President Trump’s border wall, is now saying Trump was right. Regarding the border crisis Cuomo said the following “I’ll tell you what Donald Trump is going to say in just four words: ‘I told you so.”

We sent a request to the office of Governor Maura Healy asking her to tell us, so that we can

relay to our readers the exact number of migrants she plans to house in her home. We figure it will be a moderate number; maybe even a large family, maybe two families if she’s so concerned. I mean, aren’t leaders supposed to lead by example? Shouldn’t good leaders never ask others to do something that they themselves aren’t willing to do? As of this writing, we still haven’t received a response from the governor. I’m sure she’ll get back to us as soon as possible as the delay is probably caused by her busy schedule.

Note: talk back to John Ciccone by email at

SOUTH BOSTON TODAY John Ciccone

Parolee On The Parole Board?

There are two vacancies on the state Parole Board and criminal justice reform advocates are telling Gov. Maura Healey to pick members who have spent time in jail themselves. “An essential lived experience that has too often been excluded from the Parole Board is one that can only be derived from a period of incarceration,” says a recent letter to the Healey administration by Criminal Justice Reform Caucus leaders Acton Sen. Jamie Eldridge and Rep. Mary Keefe. The board currently has many applicants who are already being vetted by the Healey administration. Traditionally the Parole Board has been stacked with prosecutors and law enforcement and Eldridge told MASSterList it’s a makeup that’s led to a “low” number of annual paroles. The state paroled 1,585 people in 2021, with a successful discharge rate of 73 percent. Eldridge said too many of those wind up back in jail for what he considers technicalities 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.

“relatively” minor violations.

If Healey agrees, Massachusetts’ parole board would be among the first in the nation to include formerly incarcerated people. It’s not an entirely new idea, though. It’s been discussed in other states and it was first floated in Massachusetts two years ago in a report by a legislative commission set up to explore parole reforms in the 2020 criminal justice reform law. Two years later, the most change seen in the backgrounds of parole board members is with Healey’s first appointment: Social worker Sarah Coughlin.

“Gov. Healey really does have a very unique opportunity, because there’s so many vacancies,” he added. Healey has been a friend to criminal justice, shaking up pardon tradition by requesting 11 in her first year in office so far. A pair of bills currently in the Legislature that propose growing the commission to nine members would extend her reach even further.

Top Democrats want ‘hard numbers’ before shelling out for migrant shelter crisis

Gov. Maura Healey is asking lawmakers for $250 million to help cover growing costs to for emergency shelter amid a migrant influx. But Democratic leaders are demanding more details, reports the Herald’s Chris Van Buskirk. House Speaker Ronald Mariano wants “hard numbers” on the emergency shelter crisis and migrant influx in Massachusetts before moving forward with a $250 million funding request from Gov. Maura Healey for the shelter system.

MCAS scores still lag pre-

pandemic marks

A slump in MCAS exam results triggered by schooling lost in the pandemic is taking a lingering toll on test scores. Students are still performing well below pre-pandemic levels on the latest batch of statewide standardized test results, reports the News Service. In English and math, students in

grades three through eight are still about 10 percentage points behind where they were in 2019, prior to learning losses from remote school and other pandemic challenges. However, achievement levels in these subjects either went up or stayed the same compared to last year’s results across all grades.

Dorchester program would make EVs affordable to make A new pilot program in Dorchester is aiming to cut the cost of making electric vehicles, using technology that can take advantage of the different prices of electricity at different times, reports Aaron Pressman for the Globe. Boston-based BlueHub Capital, a nonprofit community development finance group, brought together several partners in a first-in-the-nation pilot program that brings new electric vehicle charging technology to Codman Square. For Massachusetts to reach its carbon emission reduction goals and convince almost one million drivers to switch to electric vehicles by 2030, no

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October Service Changes Allow Crews To Work Across MBTA System

Service changes are planned for the Red, Orange, Green, Mattapan, Kingston, Middleborough, Greenbush, and Haverhill lines.

The MBTA announced service changes in October on the Red, Orange, Green, Mattapan, Kingston, Middleborough, Greenbush, and Haverhill lines. The MBTA will continue working to improve service reliability across the system.

Accessible shuttle bus service will replace Red Line trains between Broadway and Ashmont

Stations on the Ashmont Branch and between Broadway and North Quincy Stations on the Braintree Branch all day from start to end of service during the weekends of September 30-October 1 and October 7-8. This service change allows MBTA crews to perform critical work on the Savin Hill Avenue and Dorchester Avenue bridges, to perform necessary tunnel inspections on the Ashmont Branch, and to accomplish station brightening work at JFK/UMass Station.

The Kingston, Middleborough, and Greenbush Commuter Rail lines, which run adjacent to the Red Line, will also experience service changes. Accessible shuttle bus service will replace trains between South Station and Braintree all day from start to end of service during the weekends of September 30-October 1 and October 7-8. Accessible express shuttle bus service will also operate directly between South Station and Braintree Station. Passengers should note that

bicycles are not allowed on shuttle buses, and regular Commuter Rail fares will be collected between Kingston, Middleborough, Greenbush, and Braintree Stations. Keolis Customer Service Agents, MBTA staff, and Transit Ambassadors will be on-site at impacted stations to support riders. The diversion schedule will be available online at mbta. com/CommuterRail.

As previously announced, accessible shuttle bus service will re-

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Councilors Flynn and Worrell Hearing On Trafficking of Illegal Firearms

Boston City Council

President Ed Flynn and Councilor Brian Worrell held a hearing on Monday, September 18, 2023 at 10 a.m. to discuss the ordinance that they sponsored to have a study and annual report with data on the flow of firearms and information on illegal firearms recovered in the City. The hearing was chaired by Councilor Ricardo Arroyo in the Committee on Government Operations, and was attended by officials from the Boston Police Department and numerous City Councilors. The ordinance and hearing follows the unanimous adoption of a City Council Resolution declaring gun violence as a public health emergency in October 2022.

Gun trafficking and the illegal flow of firearms is a major contributor to gun violence, with the Boston Police recovering close

to 900 firearms in 2022. Since 2015, there have been over 1,700 shootings recorded in the City of Boston, with more than 170 shootings in 2022. According to the National Integrated Ballistic Information Network, only 10 percent of the firearms recovered at crime scenes that were traced were purchased in Massachusetts, while the rest were brought into Massachusetts from 18 other states. Having a comprehensive study and review of the flow of firearms into the City of Boston would help law enforcement and policymakers better understand the impact of illegal gun trafficking, and help us develop strategies on gun violence prevention.

At the hearing, Councilors spoke of the importance of curbing gun violence, the trauma brought on by gun violence in the community, as well as the concerning uses of 3D-printed “ghost

guns” and modifiers such as switches. The Boston Police Department’s Regional Intelligence Center is responsible for collecting and tracking data on firearm recoveries, while overall number of shootings and shooting victims are trending downward, possession of firearms still remains a big concern. So far the Boston Police recovered 602 guns in 2023, 415 were crime guns, including 59 “ghost guns”. Most of the data requested in the ordinance are already collected, and the Boston Police expressed willingness to collaborate on this ordinance.

“Data on the flow of firearms will help our law enforcement and policymakers better understand the impact of illegal gun trafficking and allow us to develop more effective strategies to reduce gun violence,” said Council President Flynn. “I want to thank the Boston Police Department for the work that they do in keeping our communities safe, and Councilor Worrell and my colleagues for their partnership on this issue. I look forward to continuing collaborating with our Boston Police, and passing this ordinance so that we can work together to stop the illegal flow of firearms into our neighborhoods.”

“Generations of underinvestment in marginalized communities have led to violent incidents such as Sunday night’s shooting in District 4 that injured five people including two minors and traumatized our residents,” Councilor Worrell said. “It’s important that we follow the data being collected to see how we can better understand the flow of out-of-state guns, ghost guns and modified guns that are flowing through the city. I look forward to engaging with the Boston Police Department, Council President Flynn, my council colleagues, community groups and our city’s families in curbing gun violence.”

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

LTE

TO THE EDITOR,

As I just read the latest news concerning “Another Bike Lane Battle?” In the latest South Boston Today issue, it only made me think about Mayor Michelle Wu recently touting the news that she is pushing the latest from Boston Planning & Development Agency to update the city’s “outdated’ zoning regulations that hasn’t changed since 1964.. The mayor also talks about new approaches to neighborhood development. Apparently, the city will stop moving on large neighborhood development and instead scale down to a “streets and blocks” strategy. Sounds like neighborhoods will get piecemealed, doesn’t it?. This piecemeal approach should most likely put smiles on developers’ faces as the city keeps building its population up.

I hear the city sees Boston’s population growing to 800,000 and the only way to do this is by building taller and taller towers, and more and more high-rise, high-end housing.

In South Boston, the city seems to think if they shrink traffic lanes, everyone will be riding buses or bikes. Over in West Roxbury, that community is also battling against a road diet for Centre Street. Then, take the Ted Williams Tunnel under Boston Harbor over to East Boston, and folks over here are preparing for the eventual pust to do a road diet to Bennington Street to make way for not ducklings but bike and bus lanes.

Whatever happened to governmental transparency or listen to concerns of the city’s residents wherever they live. Why should politicians be reacting to the city’s plans by writing a letter to City Hall? Why should folks wake up one morning and find out a road diet is coming to them whether they support it or not? Why should folks not have a say in the matter?

Government is our business. Either we run it or it runs us. it will only be as good as we make it or as bad as we allow it to be.

SAL GIARRATANI East Boston

CORE INVESTMENTS, INC. ACTIVATING NEW NEIGHBORHOOD WITH ‘The LOT’

Movies, Music, Markets, and Fun Throughout Fall in South Boston’s ‘On the Dot’

neighbors and friends and visitors, and we hope to see you there soon!”

U.S. Postal Service Ready to Deliver for America During the Holidays

Core Investments, Inc., a two-decade-old Boston real estate investment and development company, today announced its 2023 fall program of music, food, and fun events at The LOT, Core Investment’s newest commitment to the emerging On the Dot neighborhood in South Boston. The LOT, an outdoor event space near the popular, year-old Cannonball Cafe, at 383 Dorchester Ave., is a project that Core Investment has for months been preparing for activation and recreation, including a movie night, block party, Oktoberfest, holiday market, and more.

The developing On the Dot neighborhood is more than 21 acres of formerly industrial land along the west, or inland, side of Dorchester Avenue in South Boston, which is being planned in phases of mixeduse development adjacent to Andrew Square along the MBTA’s Red Line. Events on The LOT and throughout the On the Dot neighborhood, including longtime Andrew Square neighbors and visitors from South Boston, throughout the City of Boston and beyond, will continue and grow in scope as the mixed-use neighborhood is built out over the next few years.

“The LOT is the another piece of our activation and growing recreational choices in the heart of the emerging On the Dot neighborhood, launching now and running through the fall,” said Michael Cahill, Senior Vice President of Development of Core Investments. “We have programmed a variety of events for families and individuals for our

Core Investments is now in the process of working with City of Boston planners and the neighborhood, particularly the Andrew Square Neighborhood Association, to design and obtain permits for residential, commercial, retail, civic, and open space in the 21 acres. As a part of that planning, Core would begin with a mixed-use four-building project on nine acres just north of the Andrew Square MBTA Station, including a first building with residential and retail focus.

The LOT will be the scene of seven significant events, at least weekly and sometimes more often, through early December. A separate schedule of early events, including Farmers Forge on Saturdays and Thursday and Sunday music gatherings at Cannonball Cafe, has already begun, to kick off the fall schedule of larger events. The Cannonball Cafe events will continue. The first public event on The LOT will be Movie Night, on Friday, Sept. 22, 5:30-9 p.m., featuring “The Lion King.” Residents, friends, and family are invited to the family-friendly showing, where the Cannonball Cantina will be open for refreshments. Free tickets come with complimentary popcorn and cotton candy.

The more frequent events, including Acoustic Thursdays, Farmers Forge on Saturdays, and Rhythm and Brunch on Sundays, that are under way are also planned and programmed by the staff at Core Investments and its partners. Acoustic Thursdays are 6-8 p.m. on the Cannonball Cafe patio, with acoustic music and cold drinks, through September. Beer, wine and coffee will be served, as well as treats from the cafe.

No holiday surcharges for mailing and shipping with USPS this holiday season

“Our 2022 peak season was a tremendous success,” said Postmaster General and CEO Louis DeJoy. “We are ready to deliver for the holidays in a superior and routine manner. We have been planning early and leveraging investments in our people, infrastructure, transportation and technology made possible by the Delivering for America plan. And with no holiday surcharges, we are strongly positioned to be America’s most affordable delivery provider this holiday season.”

In 2022, the Postal Service processed more than 11.7 billion mailpieces and packages during the holiday season. On average, it took just 2.5 days to deliver a mailpiece or package to its intended destination.

Throughout 2023, USPS has maintained even stronger service performance while engaging in numerous transformational initiatives across the organization and the country. Due to the ongoing implementation of the Delivering for America strategic plan, 98% of the nation’s population currently receives their mail and packages in less than three days. With approximately 40% of first-class mail and packages getting delivered a day in advance. That noted, the Postal Service is also working hard to cor-

rect service-related issues in limited areas across the nation through hiring initiatives and improving operational efficiency.

No Holiday Surcharges

The Postal Service also announced it will not levy any additional surcharges for customers this holiday season, offering increased predictability in pricing for customers. There will be no additional fees for residential area delivery, for Saturday delivery or for minimum volumes. USPS will continue to be the most affordable way to mail and ship this holiday season.

Key Investments Ahead of 2023 Peak Season

Specifically, key Delivering for America investments in the Postal Service’s workforce, package processing, and delivery operations ahead of the 2023 peak holiday season include:

• Hiring 10,000 Season Employees: The Postal Service has focused on its Delivering for America initiative to stabilize its workforce – converting over 150,000 pre-career workers into career positions since October 2020. Due to this success, USPS anticipates the need to hire only an additional 10,000 seasonal employees.

• Utilizing 348 New Package Sorting Machines: These new machines are strategic investments in local community postal infracontinued on page 8

Gate of Heaven & St. Brigid Parishes with St. Augustine Chapel News

Jim Brett to Receive

President of the New England Council and former Massachusetts Representative of Dorchester, Jim Brett, was selected as one of five National TRIO Achievers. This distinction, which will be awarded on September 12th at 7:30 p.m. at the Washington Hilton in the nation’s capital places Jim in a “select group of individuals that include elected officials, college presidents, titans of industry, awardwinning entertainers, and other national leaders.”

National Education Award

als from disadvantaged backgrounds…” Those with disabilities are included in this program.

And it is with a focus on the necessity to address the needs of the disabled that has more than qualified Jim to be considered for this prestigious award, after having been recommended by Randy Schroeder, Alumni Chair, Board of Directors, New England Educational Opportunity Association (NEOA.).

It is not too late to Register for Religious Education Grades K-6 http://www.gateofheavenstbrigid.org/religious-education

Classes begin on Sunday, Sept. 24th at 9AM, in Cushing Hall, followed by 10:30 AM Mass

• Our Sacramental Program is a two-year program in accordance with Archdiocesan Guidelines.

• Please note that parents should enroll their children in the 1st Grade Program for their child to receive their Sacrament of First Holy Communion in the 2nd Grade in 2025.

• For those students enrolling in 1st Grade who were not Baptized in either St. Brigid or Gate of Heaven Church, please provide a copy of your child’s Baptismal Certificate to register.

• Our first class will be held on Sunday morning, Sept. 24, 2023, at 9 AM at Cushing Hall, downstairs at St. Brigid Church

• Any questions, please visit our website at www.Gateof HeavenStBrigid. org/religious-education and fill out our Online Registration Form under “Religious Education” or you can come with your child and fill out a form in person on Sunday, Sept. 24th.

This summer we welcomed our New Music Director and Organist, Kathy Clancy.

Kathy comes to us from Divine Mercy Parish in Quincy. She is pictured here with Mr. Carlo Bunyi, the Music Teacher, at South Boston Catholic Academy.

The award will be presented by COE, the Council for Opportunity, which is dedicated to furthering the expansion of college opportunities for low-income, first-generation students, and student with disabilities due to Jim’s many years of dedication in addressing the importance of not only education but also the needs of the disabled.

The Council, in presenting the TRIO award, considered Jim for this well-deserved recognition as President of COE Maureen Hoyler indicates: Jim serves “as shining examples of what TRIO students can accomplish.”

The TRIO program itself has its origins in the 1960s. The Upward Bound program which TRIO (which the title itself is derived from three initial programs.) is a part; and as an interesting side note, Jim was invited to join the inaugural class of TRIO’s Upward Bound program during those challenging years in the country in the 1960s. The Upward Bound program allowed for “fundamental support to participants in their preparation for college entrance.”

As described from the literature of the Office of Post Secondary Education of the U.S. Department of Education, “The Federal TRIO Programs (TRIO) are Federal outreach and student services programs designed to identify and provide services for individu -

Jim’s over 40 years in advocating for the rights of the disabled community can be evidenced with a quote Mr. Schroeder included in his nomination letter, “Jim understands this stuff intuitively, because of his brother [Jim’s older brother Jack]. But what makes him special is his sense of purpose, his belief that we all have a responsibility for the most vulnerable among us. He takes it personally. I wish we all took it personally.”

Jim’s dedication to the rights of the disabled can be further understood with one of a personal reflection, “...this gentleman, my brother, older brother, IQ of 35, TAUGHT ME, he was a teacher, he taught me how one lives with disabilities. He opened my eyes and my heart to the issue of disabilities. That’s why I’m here...”

Jim Brett is the President and Chief Executive Officer of The New England Council, the nation’s oldest regional business association. Mr. Brett was appointed to this position by the Council’s Board of Directors in October 1996.

Under Mr. Brett’s leadership, The New England Council has become the region’s premier business advocacy and networking association. During his tenure, revenues have grown significantly, membership has increased tenfold, and the organization has expanded its programming to offer upwards of 60 events

annually throughout the six New England states and in Washington, DC. The Council is widely respected by business leaders and policymakers alike for its nonpartisan, consensus-based approach to policy advocacy. As a result, in recent years, Mr. Brett has led the Council’s successful and impactful federal advocacy on a wide range of critical economic issues, including energy, financial services, healthcare, education and workforce development, technology, transportation, trade, and more.

Prior to joining the Council, Mr. Brett served for 15 years as a member of the Massachusetts House of Representatives. During that time, he served as a chairman of several of the most influential committees in the Massachusetts legislature, including the Committee on Banking, the Committee on Taxation, and the Joint Committee on Congressional Redistricting. As a State Representative, Mr. Brett’s legislative priorities included providing tax relief for key Massachusetts industries, creating high-wage jobs, developing, and retaining a skilled workforce, and fostering an overall business climate that supports economic growth and prosperity for all residents.

The Wine

Guy

Sips From “Down Under”

In Australia, the history of wine parallels that of the country itself. Originally settled by convicts in the 1700s, it eventually developed into a thriving country helped along the way by the wide array of minerals and arable land. In the late 18th century, many European settlers, especially Greeks and Italians, emigrated along with their grapevine stock and sheep. The quality and volume of wine grew along with the country and today that growth has created some of the world’s best red and white wines. Here’re a few for your consideration….

2021 Torbreck Woodcutter’s Shiraz, Barossa Valley, Australia, ($24.99). Layers of red, black and blue fruits in this one. Red cherry, raspberry coulis, blueberry

USPS continued from page 6

structure enabling postal workers to sort and process packages of all sizes more quickly and reliably.

To date, the Postal Service has installed 348 new package processing machines across the nation since the beginning of 2021. This includes 100 new sorting machines since last peak season. USPS will install an additional 47 new machines ahead of this holiday season. This is part of the organization’s $40 billion investment in new technology and facilities under Delivering for America.

• Increased Daily Processing Capacity to Approximately 70 million: USPS has expanded its daily package processing capacity to approximately 70 million

conserve and wild blackberry and blackcurrant notes predominate, along with a spicy edge showing cardamom, star anise and Chinese five spices. Soft tannins and voluptuous mouthfeel

from plump Shiraz berries give this wine a posture that belies its pedigree. The poise and piquancy of the fruit sitting on top of the structured mouthfeel suggest that cellaring it for 5-10 years would really be worth the wait.

2018 Penfolds Bin 28, Kalimna Shiraz, South Australia, ($31.99). Bin 28 was named after the Barossa Valley Kalimna vineyard purchased by Penfolds in 1945 and from which the wine was originally sourced. Today, Bin 28 is a multi-region, multi-vineyard blend, and from 2019 onwards, the wine is not labeled ‘Kalimna’. Christina Pickard from the Wine Enthusiast says: “Penfolds’s oldest bin label is an old school, American oak-laden wine. The nose hides the barrel influence somewhat with layers of mint, licorice, mocha and baking spice aromas propping up plump plum and dark cherry fruit. The palate, however, is highly oak-driven. The plush fruit sits heavily but offers some tangy refreshment amid a soft line of spicy tannins. Drink now through 2028”.

– an increase of approximately 10 million over last year’s capacity. Since 2020, the Postal Service has nearly tripled its daily package processing capacity. Increased package processing capacity allows for packages to move through the postal network more quickly and eliminates the need for the leasing of temporary annexes.

• Moving 95% of Volume via More Reliable Ground Transportation: USPS has adapted its transportation and logistics processes to handle the high mail and package volumes expected during the peak holiday season. The Postal Service continues to move mail and package volume from expensive air transportation to its

2021 Vasse Felix ‘Filius’ Chardonnay, Margaret River, Australia, ($31.99). This entry level Chard from Margaret River’s oldest estate is a steal at this price, as well, it offers a stellar introduction to this” Western Aussie” style. Delicate and integrated notes of lightly toasted hazelnut and cream take the lead here, with a salty sea breeze aroma. Combined with pineapple, melon and preserved lemon notes, it’s beautifully balanced, with, with an almost crunchy acidity. Though all this suggests to me that it would benefit from several years of storage, it’s absolutely delicious right now.

Jim Barry,” The Cover Drive” Cabernet Sauvignon,2020, Coonawarra, Australia, ($17.99). Deep, inky, dark ruby-red color; a little

redesigned ground transportation network. Currently, 95 percent of First-Class Mail and more than 95 percent of First-Class packages are moved through the improved, more reliable ground transportation system.

• New Shipping Solution –USPS Ground Advantage: This enhanced ground solution provides a simple, reliable, and more affordable way to ship packages this holiday season in just twoto-five business days across the continental United States. USPS Ground Advantage provides America’s businesses and the public with a compelling new ground shipping option that leverages the organization’s unparalleled last-mile delivery route system

bit lighter on the rim. The nose is full, structured and herbaceous, with aromas of floral and cedar melded with blackcurrant, cherry, liquorice and mint. Some have described this one as mediumbodied, but I say full-bodied, helped along by aromas of succulent blackcurrant, cherry and blackberry entwined with licorice, cedar, mint and rich earth. The fine-grained tannins leave a dry, mineral-rich taste, supported by a focused acid line that injects a real freshness into the already rich fruit. This Cabernet Sauvignon shows ripe fruit with a distinctive acid balance and a mineral-rich tannin structure. Match this with beef steak and lamb over the next 5+ years for an absolutely outstanding combination!

and improving mail and package postal logistics network.

“We understand the importance of every single package and letter that is sent during the holidays,” said Postmaster General DeJoy. “That is why we continue to adapt and execute on strategies to modernize and transform the Postal Service into the high performing organization the nation expects and deserves. I am confident in our ability to handle the peak season surge and deliver exceptional service to the American people during the holidays and beyond.”

More information on tools and tips to help customers prepare for the busy holiday season can be found in the USPS Holiday Newsroom.

NE Aquarium’s Receives Historic Federal Funding To Protect The Right Whale

$82 million in funding to support vital solutions.

BOSTON, MASS. (Sept. 19, 2023) – The New England Aquarium is reacting to historic federal funding intended to protect North Atlantic right whales, a critically endangered species with less than 350 individuals remaining.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) announced earlier this week that it received $82 million in funding from the Inflation Reduction Act, calling it the largest climate and conservation investment in U.S. history. The funding will be divided into categories including vessel strike risk reduction, wildlife monitoring and modeling of habitat use, and ropeless or “on-demand” fishing, aiming to support continued development and implementation of solutions to address the two leading causes of right whales’ decline: entanglements in fishing gear and vessel strikes.

“The threat of extinction for North Atlantic right whales means bold actions are needed to ensure this species survives. We applaud the Biden-Harris Administration for making these funds available for such a crucial cause,” said Dr. Jessica Redfern, Associate Vice President of Ocean Conservation Science in the Aquarium’s Anderson Cabot Center for Ocean Life.

The North Atlantic right whale’s population has been in decline since 2011, amid increasing threats from fishing gear entanglements, vessel strikes, ocean noise, and climate change, stressors that research has shown are not only impacting survival but also females’ ability to produce calves. The New England Aquarium has one of the longest-running right whale research programs in the world, extensively studying the animals for more than 40 years. Scientists focus on solutions-based work, collaborating with fishermen on new techniques to reduce deadly entanglements in fishing gear, conducting spatial analyses to assess

risk from vessels, facilitating communication across the maritime industry to reduce vessel strikes, and working with lawmakers locally, nationally, and internationally to develop science-based protections for the whales.

“Scientists and conservationists have been working toward solutions to protect North Atlantic right whales for decades. While there have been many promising advancements in technology, we have yet to reverse the decline of the species. Both private and public support is needed to ensure right whale protection measures and monitoring efforts continue to improve, as the whales adjust their migration patterns amid the impacts of climate change, prey availability, and increasing human use of the ocean,” said Aquarium Senior Scientist Philip Hamilton.

Right whales travel hundreds of miles while searching for tiny planktonic crustaceans called copepods, which they feed on in large volumes. Warming waters in the northern Atlantic Ocean have led to shifts in right whale habitat use, with the animals adjusting where they feed off the northeast U.S. and Canada.

NOAA has been working to develop vessel speed restrictions that better protect North Atlantic right whales while ensuring both the species and economy thrive. The Aquarium has contributed the best-available scientific research and analysis to help advance the revised rule, as science-based policies have proven to effectively contribute to the recovery of struggling marine mammal populations.

“We’ve testified before Congress in support of necessary measures to protect this species—measures that we acknowledge will require generational transformations in industry practice and effective partnerships to drive shared solutions. As we await NOAA’s release

North Atlantic right whale “Musketeer” (Catalog #4360), a regular visitor to southern New England waters. CREDIT: New England Aquarium, taken under NOAA research permit #25739

of a final vessel speed rule, this funding can help chart an essential path forward for both the recovery of the critically endangered North Atlantic right whale and continued responsible ocean use,” Sarah Reiter, the Aquarium’s Director of Ocean Policy.

ABOUT THE NEW ENGLAND AQUARIUM: The New England Aquarium is a nonprofit

research and conservation organization that has protected and cared for our ocean and marine animals for more than 50 years. We provide science-based solutions and help shape policies that create measurable change to address threats the ocean faces. We inspire action through discovery and help create engaged, resilient communities.

Teenagers continued from front page

MBTA continued from page 4

Most citizens believe that if it gets out of hand, the disruption, the danger associated with the free-wheeling and the infiltration by participants with different motives may turn what starts out as a fun protest into a huge public safety problem.

That type of disruption pales in comparison to the bedlam recently perpetrated by a gang of teenagers in South Bay Shopping Mall, causing City Councilor Brian Worrell to demand that Mayor Michelle Wu immediately obtain and deliver police data that sheds more light on the investigation that is shrouded in secrecy.

Worrell filed a “17F request,” approved by the City Council on Wednesday, that directs the mayor to gather intel from the Boston Police Department on whether proactive strategies were in place to prevent this particular skirmish, given the “recent uptick” in violence and shootings in the area. Upon receipt of the request, the mayor has a week to present the information to the City Council.

Worrell is also seeking information on deployment at the police department and what external agencies were involved in strategy and response relating to the Aug. 27 tussle at South Bay’s AMC movie theater in Dorchester, the 17F states. In particular, he is looking for data on emergency deployment teams, including how many have been deployed in each police district so far in 2023, what protocols go into deciding what police districts to pull officers from for an Emergency Deployment Team (EDT) in another district, and how many EDT requests have been denied in the past five years, and for what reason.

He also wants to know if EDTs are ever sent proactively to an area, and what the response times are from the “undermanned police districts” on days that emergency deployment teams are sent from one district to another, the 17F states.

Eleven teenagers and two 12-year-olds were arrested following the potentially public safety threatening incidents that occurred at the South Bay shopping center on the afternoon of Aug. 27, and hours later at another AMC theater in Downtown Crossing. Hundreds of kids were reportedly at the South Bay scene that afternoon, where teens were fighting. Moviegoers were randomly attacked, and teens assaulted cops who tried to intervene and stop the chaos, the Boston Herald has reported.

It is often argued that there are plenty of existing programs sponsored by government, private, non-profit, and religious based organizations espousing life-enhancing, and worthy personal, cultural and recreational options. Yet, teenagers in particular are constantly being influenced by dangerous and anti-establishment challenges and thrilled-based promotions on Tik-Tok, Instagram. Twitter/X and Facebook and by their peers in general. One observer noted, “it is one thing to offer these community programs, but it seems that there are too few takers”.

Councilor Frank Baker, who represents Dorchester, spoke favorably of the 17F request, saying that the city needs to do more to invest in its kids. More resources would give teens something to do, and may curb destructive behavior, pointing to the city’s surplus of American Rescue Plan Act funding. As quoted in the Herald, “This is a big, big issue,” Baker said. “If we’re not handling the young people that are down there in a healthy way, they’re potentially the next people on Mass and Cass, they’re potentially the next people in South Bay, so we need to get this right.”

place Red Line Ashmont Branch and Mattapan Line trains between JFK/UMass and Ashmont Stations and Mattapan Station for 16 days from October 14-29. The track between JFK/ UMass and Ashmont Stations and on the Mattapan Line is some of the oldest in the system and is in need of replacement. This diversion will allow crews to replace rail, ties, and ballast to improve reliability and travel times, reduce maintenance needs, and alleviate 28 speed restrictions. The MBTA also plans to maximize these full-access closures by accomplishing station enhancements like painting, power washing, and repairing lighting fixtures; vegetation removal; the removal of tripping hazards; and accessibility improvements.

As previously announced, due to the continued demolition of the Government Center Garage by private developer HYM Construction, Orange and Green Line service changes will take place in the downtown Boston area all day from September 18-October 12:

• Orange Line trains will bypass Haymarket Station. Orange Line riders should instead exit at North Station or State, less than a halfmile from Haymarket (or a four- to eight-minute walk), and travel to the Haymarket area.

• Green Line service will be suspended between North Station and Government Center Station. Riders are instead asked to walk above

ground between these stations – Government Center, Haymarket, and North Station are each less than a half mile from each other (about a five- to 10-minute walk). The distance between Government Center and North Station is about three-quarters of a mile (about a 13-minute walk).

Window continued from page 4 of the lots that they ride in are getting shut down by cops. And they have nowhere to ride, and all the cops just think that they just want dirt bike trails, dirt trails. No one wants that. They want stunt lots, pavement,” he said. “Cops won’t let us ride the stunt lots so we just take it to the streets.” Drivers in Boston say this is becoming all too common.

cities or towns can be overlooked. Hitting the goal will require hundreds of new charging stations and thousands more trained EV technicians and mechanics.

AG testifies at health equity hearing on Health Equity Act

• Riders are also reminded that Orange Line / Green Line connections can also be made via the Winter Street Concourse, which connects Park Street and Downtown Crossing Stations.

• Accessibility vans will also be available for on-demand transportation – Orange and Green Line riders should ask MBTA personnel for information and assistance.

As previously announced by MassDOT, MassDOT’s Squires Bridge repair work in Somerville will take place beginning September 18 through October 12. MassDOT will perform repairs on the bridge, which crosses over the Green Line tracks near Union Square Station. As a result, Green Line train service between Lechmere and Union Square Stations will be suspended from September 18-October 12. Green Line riders are encouraged to consider alternative routes, including the 86, 91, and CT2 bus routes between Union Square and East Somerville Station on the Medford Branch. These bus routes also travel to Sullivan Square Station on the Orange Line. In addition, Route 87 travels between Union Square and Lechmere Station.

Workers and immigrants who don’t know their rights or are fearful of employer retaliation could gain stronger protections against pervasive wage theft under legislation that is supported by the state’s top prosecutor and Gov. Maura Healey but has failed multiple times on Beacon Hill. Attorney General Andrea Campbell on Tuesday publicly testified the legislation would strengthen her office’s authority to crack down on wage theft and protect Massachusetts from lost economic growth, jobs and taxes. The latest version of the bill is being billed as a compromise between labor and business and is sponsored by Rep. Daniel Donahue and Sen. Sal DiDomenico.

In Chicopee, a push to expand free college to include Gateway City kids

A 20-year-old member of the Chicopee school committee wants Gov. Maura Healey to consider expanding the recently launched MassReconnect program that offers free community college tuition to residents over 25 to be expanded to include younger students from the state’s so-called Gateway Cities. MassLive’s Jeannette DeForge reports Healey’s office says it is open to finding ways to expand the program, assuming the funding is available.

Migrant case moves forward to Texas grand jury

A Texas prosecutor will present evidence to a Texas grand jury in coming weeks to see if charges will be brought in connection with the abrupt relocation of 49 migrants to Martha’s Vineyard more than a year ago, according to an immigration attorney involved in the case. The latest development was revealed during a screening of the film about the saga, “Martha’s Vineyard v DeSantis” on the island.

CORE continued from page 6

Farmers Forge events, a farmers’ market with fresh produce, items from local vendors and coffee will be Saturdays 9-noon, with the Cannonball Cafe open 8 a.m.-1 p.m. These events will be weather-dependent, and changes will be announced on the On the Dot Instagram page.

And every Sunday, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., Rhythm & Brunch fills the Cannonball Cafe, with life jazz music from house band Safari & the Beat Explorers, with weekly surprise guests. The music is hosted on the outdoor patio, and Cannonball Cafe will be serving brunch specials.

In addition to Movie Night on Friday, Sept. 22, Autumn events upcoming on The LOT:

A Fall Block Party will be held on Saturday, Sept. 23, Noon-6 p.m. Food trucks, raffles, yard games and shopping will be enjoyed at the community event. On Sept. 30 and Oct. 1, 8:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m., the annual Crossfit Southie Showdown will be held at The LOT. the two-day event features 250 athletes across three divisions and will take place inside and outside, with vendors showing athletic apparel, and athlete recovery solutions. And of course food and music.

Brett continued from page 7

Mr. Brett has been a lifelong champion for people with disabilities. In May 2022, President Joe Biden appointed him to serve as the Chair of the President’s Committee for People with Intellectual Disabilities (PCPID) and reappointed him as Chairman in 2023. He previously served on PCPID under Presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama, including a term as Chairman from 20112013. In 2016, Congress appointed him to the National Council on Disability. He is also currently the Chair of the Governor’s Commission on Intellectual Disability, and the Chair of the Massachusetts Disabled Persons Protection Commission. In 2013, the Uni -

Oktoberfest will be celebrated on Oct. 14, Noon-6 p.m., on The LOT, with a variety of food offerings and beer and local artists entertaining. This one is for all ages, or anyone who like carnival games and tasty foods. Halloweenfest will be Oct. 28, 4-9 p.m., a family-friendly gathering with pumpkin carving and other themed activities. The Cannonball Cafe’s Cantina will be serving beverages, along with fare of food trucks.

On Veterans Day, Nov. 11, Noon-4 p.m., The LOT will host Giveback Bash, a day to honor our military veterans and focus on giving back to the community. Activities will include writing letters for troops and first responders, chalk messages on the sidewalks, donation bins, and signups for volunteer work. Again, the Cannonball Cafe Cantina will be open, along with the presence of food trucks. A Holiday Market is set for The LOT on Dec. 2-3, Noon-6 p.m., where visitors can continue, or begin, shopping for the Christmas and Hanukkah seasons. Jewelry, clothing, local souvenirs and more will be for sale, along with Santa photos and warm drinks.

The formal schedule of events at The LOT began last week with

a private Launch Party for Core Investments, the Andrew Square Neighborhood Association, company partners, and their families. To view the full schedule of events and learn more about The LOT, please visit the lotonthedot.com . To RSVP for individual events, please go to:

Movie Night – https://bit.ly/3Ks75Xm

Fall Block Party – https://bit.ly/3DKW7Zd

Southie Showdown – https://bit.ly/3s46jtj

Oktoberfest – https://bit.ly/3DJ9U2t

Halloweenfest– https://bit.ly/47m9BYU

Giveback Bash – https://bit.ly/3s6Ycfc

Holiday Market – https://bit.ly/3qdwY6o

ABOUT ON THE DOT

On the Dot neighborhood development is now in permitting stages and under review by City of Boston agencies, including the Boston Planning and Development Agency.

Following years of planning and extensive collaborative discussion with neighborhood residents, local elected officials and City of Boston planners, Core Investments specified its intention to begin with a four-building complex of residential, commercial and retail space on about nine acres in the southern portion of the new neighborhood, near Andrew Square Station.

The larger, 21-acre Master Planned On the Dot neighborhood

will also deliver on other policy emphases of the Wu administration, including resiliency, robust open spaces and trees, transit accessibility, and sustainability.

ABOUT CORE INVESTMENTS, INC.

Core Investments is a Boston real estate development and Investment company specializing in acquiring and redeveloping urban mixed-use and commercial buildings. Core is positioned to continue adding value to existing neighborhoods as well as developing new ones. Core is committed to creating communities, improving the quality of life for both residents and commercial tenants. Core accomplishes this through smart architectural design that creates meaningful places, incorporating history, context and community. Core secured permitting for and has just delivered the first phase of nearby Washington Village, called South Standard, in partnership with Samuels & Associates and Intercontinental Real Estate Corporation. Washington Village is a one-million-squarefoot mixed-use project on more than five acres in South Boston. For more information, please go to www.coreinvestmentsinc.com .

versity of Massachusetts Boston established the James T. Brett Chair in Disability and Workforce Development, the nation’s only endowed chair in disability and workforce development. In 1996, Bay Cove Human Services of Boston named a new community home for disabled adults “Brett House” in his honor.

Over the course of his career, Mr. Brett has received numerous awards and honors in recognition of his achievements and contributions. Some highlights from recent years include:

• Michael and Kitty Dukakis Lifetime Achievement Award, Massachusetts Association for Mental Health (2018)

• Junior Achievement of

Northern New England Hall of Fame (2018)

• Action for Boston Community Development, Inc., Hall of Fame (2016)

• Boston Healthcare for the Homeless Tim Russert Award (2015)

• Special Olympics of Massachusetts Hall of Fame (2014)

• Edward M. Kennedy Leadership Award, Disability Law Center (2014)

• Hospice of Boston Humanitarian of the Year (1989)

Mr. Brett has been named to the Boston Business Journal’s “50 Most Influential Bostonians” list on several occasions in recent years. He is the recipient of 18 honorary degrees from institutions including Assumption College,

Bridgewater State University, University of Massachusetts Boston, Saint Anslem College, Suffolk University and Regis College.

Mr. Brett holds degrees from American University, Suffolk University and Harvard University. He was born and raised in Dorchester, MA where he currently resides with his wife Patricia. In his spare time, Jim volunteers at the Mary Ann Brett Food Pantry at St. Teresa of Calcutta Parish, named in memory of his mother.

Congratulations to Jim on not only his many accomplishments but on behalf of his advocacy for those with disabilities and in being named one in five 2023 National TRIO Achievers.

St. Peter Academy News

Welcome to a New School Year at St. Peter Academy Wow what a quick summer and seamless start to a brand-new school year!

After a fun-filled active Summer Program, the last week of August the school building was closed for the Annual Teacher Institute which consisted of first aid/CPR training, curriculum

updating and deep cleaning of the classrooms and common areas. There was so much excitement on the first day of school on September 5th, as we welcomed new and returning students to the building. The first tag day of the year on Friday, September 17th was Sports Day themed, and the donations were collected for the Marian Manor Activities Dept. in honor of Grand-

parents Day. What a great start to an awesome upcoming year!

St. Peter Academy is accepting applications for the 2023-2024 school year. St. Peter Academy is an independent, community-based private school and serves students from ages 15 months through grade 6. SPA is currently accepting applications for the limited spaces available in the year-round toddler program (beginning at age 15 months) and for students

in Pre-K (School Year and Full Year Programs), Kindergarten and grades 1-6. Financial Aid Available. Two Scholarships will be offered this year for applicants for Grades 1 through 6. You may request scholarship information from the Front Office (spa@stpeteracademy.com). Appointments for individual virtual tours can be made by contacting Maria Blasi, at 617-268-0750 or by emailing spa@StPeterAcademy.com.

South Boston Catholic Academy News

The 6th Graders at SBCA lead our Back to School Mass

On September 8, the students, families, faculty, and staff at SBCA attended the Back to School Mass in honor of Jesus’ and our Blessed Mother, Mary’s Birthday. The 6th Grade students did a terrific job leading us in the readings and Prayers of the Faithful. Grade 5 assisted in the presentation of the gifts that

they brought up to the altar and our Children’s Choir provided the wonderful music. The celebrants at this Mass were our Pastor, Father Robert Casey and our Parochial Vicar, Father Peter Schirripa. Father Casey explained that this Mass was in honor of Jesus’ and our Mother, Mary’s Birthday. He asked the children, “When is Jesus’

Birthday ‘’ and they enthusiastically responded “on Christmas Day”. Father Casey explained that at this Mass we were celebrating another very special birthday, the Birthday of Jesus’ and our Blessed Mother, Mary. “Let us celebrate with joyful hearts the birth of the Virgin Mary, of whom was born the sun of justice, Christ our Lord... Father of mercy, give your people help and strength from heaven. The birth of the Virgin Mary’s Son, Jesus, was the dawn of our salvation. May this

celebration of her birthday bring us closer to lasting peace. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen”

Thank you to our wonderful students and the teachers who guided and directed the students who participated in this Mass. New families are welcome to email our admissions team at admissions@sbcatholicadacademy.org, for more info. about South Boston Catholic Academy.

Typically, this time of year, I’m looking forward to the next Patriots game. But times have changed.

The Mac Jones era is proving to not be an era that I get excited about. It’s not all his fault, but according to the media, nothing is ever his fault. I’ve never seen anything like it. It’s exhausting.

If Jones wants to keep me fully invested, then he needs to go into MetLife on Sunday and beat Zach Wilson and the New York Jets. Even Vegas has made Jones and the Patriots a favorite in this one, which is kind of a head scratcher. But nonetheless, at 0-2, this is the game that Jones needs to step up and be the reason the Patriots win. No more excuses. It’s as simple as that.

So in the midst of what could be a terrible football season here in New England, I have to give credit where credit’s due to the Boston Bruins. They are certainly doing everything they can to stay in the news after the retirement of Patrice Bergeron and David Krejci.

Last week, the B’s released their “Historic 100” list of the 100 most legendary players in franchise history, as voted upon by an independent committee of media, historians, and members of the hockey community.

Here’s the list: Jason Allison, Don Awrey, P.J. Axelsson, Ace Bailey, Marty Barry, Bobby Bauer, Patrice Bergeron, Leo Boivin, Ray Bourque, Johnny Boychuk, Frank Brimsek, Johnny Bucyk, Herb Cain, Wayne Cashman, Zdeno Chara, Gerry Cheevers, Dit Clapper, Roy Conacher, Bill Cowley, Jack Crawford, Keith Crowder, Byron Dafoe, Gary Doak, Ted Donato, Woody Dumart, Phil Esposito, Andrew Ference, Fernie Flaman, Gilles Gilbert, Ted Green, Lionel Hitchman, Ken R. Hodge, Flash Hollett, Nathan Horton, Bronco Horvath, Craig Janney, Eddie Johnston, Stan Jonathan, Steve Kasper, Phil Kessel, Gord Kluzak, David Krejci, Torey Krug, Leo Labine, Reggie Lemelin, Ken Linseman, Milan Lucic, Fleming Mackell, Brad Marchand, Don Marcotte, Charlie McAvoy, Don McKenney, Johnny McKenzie, Peter McNab, Rick Middleton, Mike Milbury, Doug Mohns, Andy Moog, Glen Murray, Cam Neely, Mike O’Connell, Willie O’Ree, Terry O’Reilly, Adam Oates, Harry Oliver, Bobby Orr, Brad Park, David Pastrnak, Barry Pederson, Pete Peeters, Johnny Peirson, Bill Quackenbush, Tuukka Rask, Jean Ratelle, Mark Recchi, Sergei Samsonov, Derek Sanderson, Ed Sandford, Marc Savard, Bobby Schmautz, Milt

Schmidt, Dennis Seidenberg, Gregg Sheppard, Eddie Shore, Charlie Simmer, Dallas Smith, Rick Smith, Fred Stanfield, Vic Stasiuk, Don Sweeney, Tim Thomas, Tiny Thompson, Joe Thornton, Shawn Thornton, Jerry Toppazzini, Carol Vadnais, Cooney Weiland, John Wensink, Glen Wesley, and Eddie Westfall.

It’s a full celebration of the Bruins’ upcoming 100th season, which will also feature three new uniforms that will be worn just for 2023-24.

Now, the latest Bruins news is that those new uniforms will see a new player wearing the captain’s “C” now that Bergeron has hung up the skates. And that new captain is, Brad Marchand.

In a statement released by the team this week, Bruins CEO Charlie Jacobs spoke on Marchand officially becoming the 27th captain of the Boston Bruins.

“I am extremely proud of Brad and the hockey player he has become,” said Jacobs. “Brad has been a Bruin for over 15 years and had the opportunity to learn from great leaders in Zdeno Chara and Patrice Bergeron. He is ready for this opportunity and our whole team will learn from his competitive nature and tenacity. I am confident he will represent our organization with heart and grit.”

Past Bruins Captains include Bergeron

(2021-23), Zdeno Chara (2006-20), Joe Thornton (2002-05), Jason Allison (2000-01), Ray Bourque (1985-2000), Rick Middleton (1985-88), Terry O’Reilly (1983-85), Wayne Cashman (1977-83), Johnny Bucyk (1966-67 and 1973-77), Leo Boivin (1963-66), Don McKenney (1961-63), Ferny Flaman (1955-61), Ed Sandford (1954-55), Milt Schmidt (1947-54), Bobby Bauer (1946-47), John Crawford (1945-46), Bill Cowley (1944-45), Ralph ‘Cooney’ Weiland (1937-39), Red Beattie (1936-37), Eddie Shore (1935-36), Nels Stewart (1934-35), Marty Barry (1933-34), Aubrey ‘Dit’ Clapper (1932-33 and 1939-44), George Owen (1931-32), Lionel Hitchman (192831) and Sprague Cleghorn (1925-28). Marchand as new Bruins captain is the obvious choice, in my opinion. I heard some make the argument for Charlie McAvoy, but come on, this is Marchand’s team now. You can’t be a Bruins fan and deny that.

The Bruins’ biggest issue this season won’t be the “C” on the jersey. It will be trying to fill the shoes of the guy who used to wear the “C.” And as much as Marchand deserves to be named captain right now, replacing Bergeron just isn’t going to happen as soon as 2023-24.

Follow Danny on instagram @ DannyPicard.

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

What To Watch

SPORTS TODAY

PATRIOTS FALL TO 0-2, TAKE ON JETS IN WEEK 3

It’s usually unreasonable to have a must-win game in only the third week of the regular season, but that’s what the winless New England Patriots face as they travel to MetLife to take on the Jets this Sunday.

The Pats lost to the Miami Dolphins, 24-17, on Sunday Night Football in Week 2. It was their second straight loss at home, after also losing to the Philadel -

Tweet of the Week

phia Eagles at Gillette Stadium in Week 1.

New England trailed 17-3 at the half, but cut the lead to 1710 after a Mac Jones touchdown pass to Hunter Henry in the opening minutes of the fourth quarter. Miami countered minutes later with a Raheem Mostert 43-yard touchdown run that put the Dolphins up 24-10.

But the Patriots weren’t done yet. With 5:25 left in the game, Rhamondre Stevenson rushed for a two-yard score to make it 24-17.

The Pats had the ball in Miami

RED SOX PART WAYS WITH BLOOM

The Boston Red Sox fired Chief Baseball Officer Chaim Bloom late last week. In their announcement, Principal Owner John Henry explained that the move “signals a new direction” for the organization.

“While parting ways is not taken lightly, today signals a new direction for our club,” said Henry in a statement. “Our organization has significant expectations on the field and while Chaim’s efforts in revitalizing our baseball infrastructure have helped set the

stage for the future, we will today begin a search for new leadership. Everyone who knows Chaim has a deep appreciation and respect for the kind of person he is. His time with us will always be marked by his professionalism, integrity, and an unwavering respect for our club and its legacy.”

This was Bloom’s fourth season with the team. Currently, the Red Sox are in the basement of the AL East, and are nearly 10 games back of a Wild Card playoff spot. Needless to say, there won’t be any postseason baseball in Boston for

territory in the final minutes, but couldn’t convert on a 4th-and-4 from the 33-yard line with a minute left, leading to a Dolphins win.

“I think 90 percent of the games in the NFL go into the fourth quarter and a one-possession game, so just trying to learn and get better from that,” said Jones in his press conference after the loss. “And it just wasn’t our day. Hasn’t been our day for the last two weeks. So we’ve just got to learn from it and get better.”

Now, the Patriots prepare for their first road game of the

the second consecutive year.

“The decision was not made lightly or easily,” said Red Sox president and CEO Sam Kennedy in a press conference following the news of Bloom’s firing. “We all know where we are in the standings. It’s a painful reality that fans feel as deeply as we do. Our fans deserve a winning, competitive team that consistently plays postseason baseball.”

Kennedy also added, “I think we’ve always been consistent, trying to build, build that farm system, but win at the major league level has always been a priority. Obviously, the past two seasons we haven’t been there and the change was made.”

In their official statement on

season, where they’ll take on the 1-1 Jets with Zach Wilson under center. New England is a 2.5-point favorite.

“Overall, I’d say this is a pretty hardworking group,” Belichick told reporters on Monday, a day after the loss to the Dolphins. “But, ultimately, in the end, we’ve all got to produce more. So, that’s really the focus. We’ll keep grinding away on that and be ready to correct some mistakes from yesterday and get ready for the Jets and go down there and be ready to play our best football.”

Bloom’s departure, the Red Sox also announced that general manager Brian O’Halloran has been offered a new senior leadership position within the baseball operations department, and that “the search for new baseball operations leadership will begin immediately.”

“It’s hard to say it’s not related to results because that’s what this is all about,” said Kennedy in his press conference. “We’re aiming for World Series championships. That’s it. That’s the aim, that’s the goal. We’re here to win World Series championships. While we’re here, we’re not going to waste this opportunity. That’s what the Boston Red Sox are all about.”

SBT Staff

SBT Staff