South Boston Today October 5 2023

SouthBoston

BRIC Is A Useful Public Safety Tool But Needs To Be Monitored Continually

The City Council, this week, voted to approve $3.4 million in grant funding for the Boston Regional Intelligence Center (BRIC), after much debate with councilors determining that the need for public safety outweighs past harms created by the entity’s gang database. In a 7-5 vote on Wednesday the Council released four years’ worth of funding to the intelligence arm of the city’s police department, money that has been earmarked by the state since fiscal year 2020, but had been held up by the City Council.

The four grants, awarded by the Massachusetts Executive Office of

Public Safety and Security, would allow the center to hire an additional eight analysts and improve its capabilities to combat gang-related crime and terrorism, and provide emergency responses. Four of the analysts would “monitor active events and communicate in realtime,” two would coordinate with the State Police, MBTA police, and MassPort police, and two would help with an initiative designed to share information directly with residents.

Frank Baker, Liz Breadon, Gabriela Coletta, Sharon Durkan, Ed Flynn, Michael Flaherty and Erin Murphy voted to approve the BRIC grants. Ricardo Arroyo, Kendra Lara, Ruthzee Louijeune, Julia Mejia and Brian Worrell voted in opposition. Tania Fernandes Anderson was absent from the day’s meeting. Those who voted for it said that under the new Com-

Columbus Day Is Coming. Whether The Woke Crowd Likes It or Not

In the world of Politically Correct, Woke and Cancel Culture Bullying, it is believed by the advocates of that train of thought, that all they need do is claim they are offended by something they don’t like and it will be removed. Claiming its racist, gives the effort an even bigger boost; or at least it used to. Those pushing this movement believe this because in some cities around the country, they are correct. They’ve seen the results – the fruits of their labor. ‘Ban everything we don’t like or we’ll protest; maybe even violently if we must’. And the cowardly authorities bow and grovel to these demands and do the bidding of the radicals.

Whether it’s a statue, a song on the radio, the name of a street or a picture on a tub of butter, it has been working. This brings us to the upcoming Columbus Day holiday. There are those who demand it be eliminated. They don’t like the Italian explorer so they want statues of Christopher Columbus torn down and the name of the holiday changed to things like ‘Indigenous People’s Day’, ‘Fall Festival’ or Pumpkin Seed Jamboree etc. The fact that millions of Italian Americans like Columbus Day just the way it is and look forward to it each year, matters not to the ‘Woke’ crowd. They want what they want and tradi-

tion be damned. The statue of Columbus in Boston was removed because a tiny group demanded it. And this is why the cancel culture mob keeps coming for more and more. There will be no end to the traditions they want gone and there never will be until people stand up to them and say ‘NO’. There are some who don’t like Thanksgiving. They have been actively working over the years to end this uniquely American and beautiful tradition. Give in to them and they will set their sights on getting rid of Christmas in an even bigger way than they have been trying already for many years. The thought of one

day, eliminating America’s Independence Day celebration every year held on July 4th, makes those who hate our country salivate. All those Red, White and Blue Flags, fireworks and patriotism makes them nauseous. That would be perhaps the biggest feather in their caps if they could end that one.

Think about it. If people don’t step up and draw that line in the sand and face down the radicals whose goal it is to eliminate every cherished American tradition, they will just keep on coming. If elected officials, whether federal, state or municipal continue to duck and run for cover every time the malcontents with a chip on

their shoulder for one holiday and tradition or another and don’t stand up to them, our country will one day lose its identity completely. Americans; no matter what their background, are welcomed to celebrate the long Columbus Day weekend. It belongs to everyone. If the radical/politically correct/woke/cancel culture types don’t like it or if it offends them well, that’s just too bad. They can take their whiny, entitled attitudes and go somewhere to pout. The name of the holiday is Columbus Day, it will always be Columbus Day NOT indigenous peoples’ day whether the woke crowd likes it or not.

Fall-O-Ween Children’s Festival returns to Boston Common October 20

Mayor Michelle Wu and the Boston Parks and Recreation Department host the third annual Fall-o-Ween Children’s Festival on the Boston Common Parade Ground at the corner of Beacon and Charles Streets on Friday, October 20, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

The Fall-o-Ween Children’s Festival is presented by the Boston Parks and Recreation Department in partner-

ship with the Skating Club of Boston. Key sponsors are College H.U.N.K.S. Hauling Junk & Moving, HP Hood LLC, and Xfinity. Additional support is provided by LEGO® Discovery Center Boston, One Boston Church, Celebrity Series of Boston, WBUR - Boston’s NPR, and PLAY-Boston.

Adults and children are encouraged to wear Halloween costumes and participate in a wide range of free, fun, and spooky

family-friendly activities. Test your courage in our Funhouse Maze and on the Spooky Mansion Slide, try the Jumpin’ Pumpkin, test your skills at the bean bag toss, and enjoy nighttime fun in our Glow in the Dark Park with LED swings, LED seesaw, and LED cornhole.

A “monster mash” of activities will include music, arts and crafts, treats, rides on the trackless train, field games, individual, and group play facili-

tated by Knucklebones, and LEGO® Discovery Center Boston will host giveaways and fun Halloween-themed LEGO building activities.

“October turned my Maple’s leaves to gold” - Thomas Bailey Aldrich

I Was Just Thinking…

to shake hands with people who aren’t there.

The presidency is not for the old who have lost velocity on their fastball.

To compound his mental condition that has clearly declined during his presidency, he simply isn’t doing a good job. Fifty-five percent of voters disapprove of his performance. Over seventy-five percent of Americans, including over sixtysix percent of Democrats, consider him too old for the office; and shouldn’t run again.

Everything is out of whack, and Biden’s oblivious to it all.

Are they out of their minds?

Don’t they see what we see on the news?

ness normalized.

Finally, attacks on freedom of speech.

by Kevin Devlin

With all due respect to the office of the Presidency, and to President Joe Biden, I think it’s time he called it a day and shuffled off into the sunset.

His day is over and it’s time to enjoy the rest of his night.

He just shouldn’t be in the Oval Office anymore. Let someone younger and more vigorous in body and mind oversee the future of this great country.

When speaking in public he loses his train of thought.

He mispronounces words. He speaks incoherently, ostensibly confused.

He stumbles, sometimes falls going up and down stairs.

After talking gibberish, he turns

Inflation is a killer, out of control. Last week I went to a local supermarket. Prices are outrageous, higher each day. Nobody was smiling. I think the shoppers are in shock. One gallon of milk or a package of six Thomas English muffins is over five dollars. One carton of eggs is over eight dollars. Loaves of bread cost over four dollars. With these prices, one cannot buy much. Stretching your dollars to get what you need, especially if you have a big family to feed, is a daunting task for many Americans. And let’s not forget the price of gas is rising once again.

The border is in chaos. Biden and his staff declare the border is closed. Not to worry. Everything is under control.

Thousands and thousands of illegal immigrants crossing the border every single day. Since January of 2021, there have been 5.1 million encounters of illegal immigrants and at least 1.2 million known illegal immigrant getaways for a confirmed minimum of 6.3 million illegal immigrants entering the United States. Biden’s promise to “build back better” really means to “let everyone in” while not listening to the concerns of everyday Americans. They don’t count.

What else? Well, crime is out of control. People are being assaulted, shot, murdered, carjacked. Businesses are abandoning the inner cities because they can no longer suffer the losses from the brazen thieves looting their stores. Billions of dollars in merchandise stolen by shoplifters who know they won’t be prosecuted due to softon-crime policies embraced by those who are supposed to be enforcing the law in court. It’s a joke.

Drug addiction and homeless -

Biden has said countless times that he’s a defender of Democracy, protecting it against the radical MAGA Republicans threatening to destroy our way of life. But actions speak louder than words and Biden’s attack on free speech by censoring others who disagree with him (see his attacks on Elon Musk) is the real threat to our Freedom.

It reminds me of the rule of Emperor Tiberius in Ancient Rome when he held Treason Trials to rid himself of political foes. If it keeps on going like this with Biden pressing to enforce his censorship policies, we just might see people being put to trial for simply what they think.

Scary thought but not out of the realm of possibility with Biden who on too many occasions sadly forgets who or where he is, but never forgets what damage he wants to inflict upon others who don’t concur with his views on building back better, no matter what the cost to the real American dream.

And the everyday American.

To MCAS, or not to MCAS?

The campaign to cease the use of MCAS scores as a graduation requirement could produce one of the most bruising political fights of the two-year cycle, and a legislative hearing this afternoon (2 p.m.) will mark one of the opening volleys. Supporters and opponents of the standardized testing reform will descend into the State House’s Gardner Auditorium for an Education Committee hearing, where the agenda features legislation that would replace the existing MCAS graduation requirement with a new, locally driven system in which districts independently would certify that a student has completed enough coursework to meet state standards.

It’s shaping up to be an event worthy of the Gardner, the building’s largest hearing room: education advocates on both sides of the issue are expecting several hours of testimony, perhaps into the evening. And the arguments that have trickled out ahead of time don’t mince words. A coalition of nearly two dozen business leaders and education advocates, including leaders of several chambers of commerce, said the bill “guts key provisions” of previous education funding reforms and “dismantles the very foundation of our success.” Meanwhile, the Massachusetts Teachers Associa-

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.

tion — which like other supporters has dubbed the bill the “Thrive Act” — contends that “high-stakes testing and the associated accountability measures have undermined our public education system for far too long.”

The legislation is one possible route for decoupling MCAS from high school diplomas in Massachusetts. MTA and other supporters are also pushing a potential ballot question that could put the idea directly before voters in November 2024. That adds even more intrigue. In past cycles with controversial, well-funded policy issues marching toward the ballot, lawmakers have felt inclined to broker a compromise and avert a final decision by voters. Whether they’ll do so this time around remains to be seen, but Wednesday’s hearing might begin to offer a few hints.

In Kevin McCarthy demise, it was Clark who held the Dems together

It was no accident that not one single Democrat voted to keep Kevin McCarthy as House Speaker.

“At the center of that strategy was Representative Katherine Clark of Revere, the second-ranking House Democrat, who as the party’s whip helped hold the party together in its opposition to McCarthy. She said the choice was made because

of Democrats’ values,” the Boston Globe reports.

How a large housing project was foiled

A developer wanted to build nearly 500 units in Braintree at the South Shore Plaza but ran into a “buzz saw” of opposition, according to the Boston Globe’s Andrew Brinker. Developer ZOM Living learned the hard way about the reality of local control: “…When [homeowners] oppose a housing development that needs special approval by town officials — as most do — the opposition can stop projects in their tracks.”

Legislators want to replace Columbus Day statewide with Indigenous Peoples Day

Some Massachusetts legislators want to replace what long has been Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples Day, the moniker of choice in Boston and a couple dozen other cities and towns. Elsewhere in the country, some jurisdictions have replaced Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples Day and some others recognize both. The Massachusetts proposal has come up for the past three years.

Potential gun-limiting legislation stuck on Beacon Hill

Fraud Awareness Warning From The Better Business Bureau

Like many of us, older adults are often targeted by con artists. Many victims don’t ask for help until it is too late! Help your friends, family, clients, or patients avoid fraud by knowing the signs of current or impending fraud.

Warning signs that fraud may occur

• Frequent junk mail and spam

calls. Incoming junk mail (illegitimate sweepstakes offers, etc.) or receiving frequent calls from people offering valuable rewards or asking for charitable donations are signs that fraud could easily occur or may have already occurred.

• Unfamiliar payments are being made. Checks written or payments

made to unfamiliar or out-of-state companies should be a red flag.

• Acting secretively about phone calls or messages. When someone hides or acts secretively about phone calls and messages, it could signify that they have engaged a scammer.

• Sudden problems paying bills or buying food and other necessi -

House Democratic leaders have yet to advance gun control legislation that has been stuck in a procedural tangle with the Senate for three months. Aides to House leaders told the State House News Service that a measure should emerge sometime this fall. The two chambers have disagreed over what committee should handle the measure.

Cannabis growers to limit state’s cannabis crop

Some Massachusetts cannabis growers want the state to limit the amount of cannabis that can be grown in the state — for other growers, that is. The growers argue that letting too many farmers grow weed would drive prices lower than existing growers would like. According to the Boston Business Journal, a gram of cannabis flower is selling for half of the sum it fetched two years ago.

Wage disclosure bill set for vote today reflects business concerns

A proposed state law that would require that businesses of 25 or more employees include salary ranges in advertisements, and all businesses report salary ranges for open jobs to the state, which then will aggregate them for online publication, is likely

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ties. A sudden lack of funds could mean an individual’s money is being drained in some form of scam activity. The cause should be investigated to rule out fraud. Tips for helping your loved one

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Open Meeting

Law Training to be held at Edward M. Kennedy Institute

works. It is civic gatherings like this that ensure we all have the knowledge to ensure government remains open, transparent, and responsive.”- Adam Hinds, Chief Executive Officer of the Edward M. Kennedy Institute.

First 100 participants will have access to a replica United States Senate Seat

The Joint Committee on State Administration and Regulatory Oversight, in partnership with the Edward M. Kennedy Institute and the Massachusetts Municipal Association, cordially invite members of the public to a highly informative and educational training session conducted by the Attorney General’s Office of Open Government.

“The open meeting law is a critical tool for ensuring transparency in state and local government,” said Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell. “My office greatly appreciates the opportunity to collaborate with Senator Collins and Representative Cabral and provide this valuable training to municipal employees and members of the public.”

“Power in government comes from understanding how government

“On behalf of cities and towns across the Commonwealth, we are proud to partner on this important training,” said Adam Chapdelaine, the Executive Director of the Massachusetts Municipal Association. “This event presents a valuable and relevant educational opportunity for the thousands of dedicated local government employees in Massachusetts.”

“Although methods of communication change and expand over time, the Open Meeting Law continues to protect the public’s right to access information and to participate in the decision-making functions of our government. It is important for everyone involved to understand their responsibilities. As the House and Senate Co-Chairs of the Joint Committee on State Administration, and members of the Open Meeting Law Advisory Commission, we hope we can all learn something valuable from this training session - and that the conversation will help our committee spearhead the efforts to update the OML moving forward,” said Senator Nick Collins and Representative Antonio Cabral.

The training session will take place on Wednesday, October 11th, 2023, at the EMK Institute. Doors will open at 5:30PM and begin promptly at 6:00PM. All are welcome.

SEMPER FIDELIS SOCIETY

Statement on the Passing of Tim Wakefield

“Boston Red Sox Pitcher Time Wakefield was a class act on and off the field. Tim received our Ted Williams Globe & Anchor Award, which goes to an individual every year who, while at the top of their profession, makes the time and effort to help others and make a difference in their communities. Tim personified that award. Boston Marines send their condolences to Tim’s family.”

BRIC continued from front page missioner and Mayor, the unit has purged its gang database of the names of people who shouldn’t have been listed, and taken other steps to bring the unit out into the community and ensure residents and councilors are regularly informed of what it’s doing.

“At the end of the day, BRIC helps solve crimes, particularly violent crime, homicides,” outgoing City Councilor Michael Flaherty said. “BRIC brings justice and some solace, a little bit of peace and a little bit of closure to those that have had a loved one killed in the streets of Boston.”

The funding will go toward improving technology aimed at fighting crime, gangs, and terrorism.

“The BRIC provides invaluable intelligence gathering and data to keep our city safe and prevent crime,” City Council President Ed Flynn said.

“We want intelligent police,” Councilor Frank Baker added. “We don’t want the opposite of an intelligent police force.”

In a Wednesday statement, Mayor Michelle Wu praised the Council for voting to advance the grant

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avoid fraud

• Become familiar with common scams targeting older adults. Knowing the most common tactics used to target older adults can help you more quickly identify when scams occur.

• Emphasize the criminal nature of telemarketing and email fraud. Help your loved one learn how to identify it and help them understand that these tactics are illegal. In participating, it is possible they could be pulled into criminal activity unknowingly.

• Encourage the person to ignore phone calls and messages that appear suspicious. Don’t reply to or click links within emails or text messages they are unfamiliar with.

• Have a calm discussion about securing accounts and monitoring finances. Helping older adults monitor their finances can be a great way to prevent scam activity and identify if it has occurred.

funding, saying that the BRIC plays a “critical role” in providing the intel and analysis to “close gaps through deploying coordinated resources and service.”

Most of the opposition centered around the BRIC’s gang database, which critics say is racially discriminatory in that it disproportionately tracks people of color. The five councilors who voted against the grants were unconvinced that reforms, through new leadership at the police department and efforts to purge inactive names from the database, have done enough to repair prior harms.

“I don’t believe it makes us safer,” Councilor Ricardo Arroyo said. “They haven’t proven their worth and the fact that they’re currently under investigation for possible civil rights abuses and racial discrimination makes it impossible for me to vote for these grants today.” Councilor Kendra Lara said a vote in favor of funding the BRIC was “regressive,” and one that points to a city “moving backwards on police reform.” “We should not only be moving funding away from BRIC, but we should also be looking at how to get rid of the gang

• Help the person change their phone number. If constant calls continue, changing the person’s phone number may be worth changing. Registering the number with the Do Not Call list is a great first step, although scammers won’t necessarily follow the DoNot-Call list laws. If unsafe calls continue, it may be best to change the phone number.

Recognizing abuse against older adults

The most common types of abuse are physical, emotional, financial, and verbal. The National Council on Aging says up to five million older Americans are abused yearly, and the annual loss by victims of financial abuse is estimated to be at least $36.5 billion. In Canada, over 10 percent of older adults are victims of crime, and some experience violent crimes or physical abuse.

BBB recommends that family, friends, and caregivers learn the

database altogether,” Lara said. “I am a little discouraged that it is evident this vote is going to fall along racial lines.” She then vowed she will never vote for Wu again. If anything, the city should eliminate the database altogether.

Councilors Gabriela Coletta and Liz Breadon voted in favor while calling for more accountability, transparency, and oversight of the entity. Coletta called for the body to hold bi-annual hearings with BPD to “help us get the lid off of BRIC.”

It was noted that under Commissioner Michael Cox, many of the worst things about BRIC have ended and she plans to carefully review the periodic reports BPD promised the council. And in the meantime, she said, BRIC - which includes oversight of security cameras across Boston - “has stopped hate crimes, murders, sexual assaults and kidnappings and attacks on our LGBTQ neighbors and our Jewish neighbors.”

Boston Police Commissioner Michael Cox said BRIC’s work is not about vilifying people of color. “It’s really about … identifying the people who are driving

signs of abuse or neglect in older adults. Business owners dealing in the industry can share these signs with employees.

Signs of neglect

• Lack of basic hygiene, adequate food, or clean and appropriate clothing. When basic needs are not being met for an individual in the care of another, neglect should be suspected.

• Missing medical aids or skipped doctor’s appointments. Medical aids (glasses, walkers, hearing aids, medications) and regular physician visits are critical to a healthy and active life for older adults. If these things are absent or ignored, it could be a sign of neglect.

• The person is often unsupervised. Caregivers must supervise their patient or loved one, especially if the person requires additional assistance because of dementia or other disorders. The level of supervision may vary

the crime, violent crime in our city, and keeping track of that information,” Cox said.

City officials at a previous public hearing emphasized that BRIC maintains compliance with the city’s Trust Act, which prohibits Boston police from getting involved in deportation matters. The police department has faced questions in the past about the scope of its collaboration with immigration authorities. According to BPD, BRIC analyzes various police records and information to determine whether an individual fits the criteria for inclusion in its gang database.

The center can still decline to enter people into the database who meet the 10-point threshold for inclusion but are determined not to be engaging in gang-related criminal activity. Weighing all factors, law enforcement needs as many tools in their public safety toolbox as necessary. Most observers believe that, with Michael Cox as the Commissioner the racist narrative, being promoted by those who have made it their calling card, has been discredited. Rational judgment has emerged and prevailed.

depending on the needs of the person in care, but in all cases, a lack of supervision could be a sign of neglect.

• The person is confined to a bed without regular care. Adults under medical or family supervision should be assisted in getting out of bed and moving around. Being confined to a bed can be detrimental to physical and mental health and is a sign of improper care. If an individual is bed-bound, they should still be repositioned and cleaned regularly.

• The home is overly cluttered, in disrepair, or fire and safety hazards are present. An unsafe home can be a sign of neglect and should be addressed due to safety hazards. Caregivers are tasked, in part, with creating a safe and healthy living environment.

• A home without adequate facilities (stove, refrigerator, heating, cooling, plumbing,

St. Peter Academy News

Apple Picking Field Trip

The weather was damp and dreary, but that didn’t stop us from having Field Trip fun! This year we changed it up and went to Connors Farm, it did not disappoint. Two school buses filled with SPA students and staff headed to

Danvers. We rode the train to the Orchards and picked some apples, got through the corn maze, checked out the animals and farm equipment and enjoyed lunch at the picnic tables. Such a great field trip that ties nicely into our Fall curriculum. We will

most definitely be back next year! St. Peter Academy is accepting applications for the current school year. St. Peter Academy is an independent, communitybased 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.

Guy The Wine

Cool Evening Reds

As we get further into Fall, those cool evenings are taking their usual place in the scheme of things. Many people enjoy meeting up with friends after dinner and having a glass or two of cool evening reds-wines that warm them against the evening chill. Here are some wines that will be able to do the same for you…

Cooper and Thief Bourbon Barrel Aged California Red Blend, ($24.99). Cooper & Thief Red Blend is a dark and

Golden Bachelor Watch Party

SOUTH BOSTON, MA -- Love

was in the air at Compass on the Bay on September 29th when the Memory Support Assisted Living Community hosted a watch party to celebrate ABC’s Golden Bachelor series premiere. Compass on the Bay residents, associates and family members gathered to watch as Gary, a 72-year-old bachelor, got to know 22 women in the hopes of finding love for the second time in his life. Residents enjoyed sparkling cider and even received a red rose of their own to mimic the

jammy red wine blend loaded with bourbon-inspired flavors and aromas. Crafted by Cellarmaster, Chris Leamy, our wine is aged for three months in bourbon barrels, which gives way to soft, velvety tannins with a subtle heat. The combined result is a rich flavor, with a long, lingering finish. If it’s a meal you want, instead of after dinner, you can enjoy this one with a wide array of foods, from grilled burgers to Top Round Sirloin with fresh green beans and a Bernaise sauce.

Château Paul Mas, 2021, Clos de Mûres, Languedoc, France ($26.99). Crafted from 85% Syrah and the rest Grenache Noir and Mourvèdre, this gently spiced Southern French sipper also has plenty of cherry fruit aromas that lead to an energetic palate bursting with fresh cherries, scrubby Mediterranean herbs, and cracked peppercorns. Very fresh, yet with plenty of depth. Drink some tonight or hold onto a few bottles; I think they’ll be delicious right through 2027.

2020 John Duval Wines, Entity

Bachelor’s classic rose ceremony. When asked “What is the most important quality when finding a partner?” here’s what residents and staff had to say…

• “Someone who listens to you”Janice Andrews, resident

• “That feeling of true love” - Gloria Layne, resident

Shiraz, Barossa Valley, Australia, ($39.99). Christina Picard of the Wine Enthusiast gave these one 93 points, saying: “The year 2020 wasn’t Barossa’s finest vintage, but Entity fares well. It’s a rich well of supple plum and blackberry fruit, dark chocolate, mint and anise, underpinned by earthy spices like cumin and turmeric, in a vanillin-oak frame that’s subtle but present. The palate shows similar richness but never feels overly heavy despite the overlay of velvety, plush fruit on the tongue. Polished, well-integrated tannins keep it grounded.”. This is a wine to warm the cockles in winter or to pair with grilled ribs or brisket in summer. Drink now through 2030.

Buli Estate 44, Toscana, 2020, ($25.99). This bold blend is predominantly Sangiovese, with Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah and just a touch of Merlot. On the nose, it has aromas evoking Mediterranean scrub, cedar and black-skinned berries. The savory

• “Honesty” - Donna Malcom, Lead Resident Care Associate

• “Someone I can grow with” - Dean Tricarico, Director of Community Relations

Overall, the senior community loved the message that the Golden Bachelor sends, which is, you are never too old to find love.

palate features blackberry jam, clove and black pepper alongside polished tannins. While it’s great on its own, you can have it with any kind of red meat, especially something on the grille. Also, given my past tasting experiences with this one, I think it’s a safe bet to lay down for several years, through 2027.

The Seeker Cabernet Sauvignon, Central Valley, Chile, ($17.99). This Cab is bright with an intense ruby-red color. The nose reveals a ripe plum and raspberry aroma accompanied by complex notes of cedar from oak ageing. You’ll find that the palate is filled with round tannins and soft texture. Flavorful and juicy, with notes of black cherry and plum at the forefront and a long, full finish. If you really want to enjoy this wine, (not to mention yourself), go out and get a fresh baguette and your favorite cheese, spread it on the bread and warm it in the oven.

You’re welcome.

is an assisted living community dedicated exclusively to those with memory loss featuring Compass Memory Support, a renowned, research-based treatment program for those with dementia, from Mild Cognitive Impairment to Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia-causing diseases. Learn more at www.CompassontheBay.com.

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

October 19, 2023, 6:00 pm.

Dealing with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementia isn’t easy, so it is helpful to share your concerns and personal experiences

with others who completely understand what you’re going through. You will also learn about proven strategies to help you better care for your family member. This group will be held in

conjunction with our sister community, Standish Village. Call 617-2685450 or email Program Director Erin Bollinger at ebollinger@compassonthebay.com for more information and

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

Compass on the Bay resident Paul Schaffrath presents a rose to Janice Andrews

From left to right: Dean Tricarico, Director of Community Relations, Erin Bollinger, Director of Compass Programming, and Caity Burke, Executive Director

Resident Nancy Faenza enjoying some sparkling cider

Never Too Old to Find Love: Compass on the Bay Hosts

Compass on the Bay in South Boston

South Boston Catholic Academy News

The Blessing of the Animals

On October 2, 2023, the students and families at South Boston Catholic Academy were so happy to bring their lovable family pets to be Blessed at the Annual Blessing of the Ani-

mals. Father Peter Schirripa, the Parochial Vicar, Blessed each of the pets that the students brought. This event was held to celebrate the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi, Italy. St. Francis is the Founder of

the Franciscan Order. St. Francis had a deep love and devotion to God, all God’s people, God’s beautiful nature around us and all of God’s animals. St. Francis prayed to God to work through him to help animals as well as people, and said of animals: “Not to hurt our humble brethren is our first duty to them, but to stop there is not enough. We have a higher mission — to be of service to them

wherever they require it.” “An animal’s eyes have the power to speak a great language.” – Martin Buber. “The kindness one does for one animal may not change the world but it will change the world of that one animal.” – Unknown. New families are welcome to email our admissions team at admissions@sbcatholicadacademy.org for more info. about South Boston Catholic Academy.

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

The Annual Blessing of the Animals

On Sunday, October 1, 2023, all were welcome and many came to the Annual Blessing of the Animals,

outside Gate of Heaven Church, downstairs in St. Joseph’s Courtyard following the 9AM Mass. Father Peter Schirripa, the Paro -

chial Vicar, Blessed all the wonderful family pets.

This event is held in honor of St. Francis of Assisi, Italy Feast Day, which is actually on October 4. St. Francis is the Founder of the Franciscan Order. St. Francis had a deep love and devotion to God, all God’s people, God’s beautiful nature around us and all of God’s

animals. St. Francis prayed to God to work through him to help animals as well as people, and said of animals: “Not to hurt our humble brethren is our first duty to them, but to stop there is not enough. We have a higher mission — to be of service to them wherever they require it.” “Our pets are our family.” – Ana Monnar”.

Window continied from page 4 BBB continied from page 6 and electric). Regardless of age, everyone requires basic access to utilities and a temperate environment. If these facilities are missing, it could be a sign of neglect, or the person needs additional care and assistance.

to come up for a vote by the full House today. While business owners may not love the measure, it was softened after input from industry lobbyists. For instance, only the attorney general could levy fines for non-compliance. Private parties would not have standing to sue.

Here are top mid-career salaries by college major

If “The Graduate” were being written today instead of more than 50 years ago, the Dustin Hoffman character might well be told not to go into plastics, but instead a field like petroleum engineering. A survey cited by the Boston Business Journal lists the average midcareer salary of a graduate with that degree of $212,500. Other top degrees for making money by mid-career: operations research and industrial engineering; interaction design; applied economics and management; and building science.

Seven Massachusetts residents make Forbes richest list

The Forbes list of the 400 richest people in the United States includes seven Massachusetts residents, and all of them got richer over the course of the prior year, WBZ reports. The richest is FIdelity’s Abigail Johnson, with $20.5 billion. Her siblings also are on the list. Patriots owner Robert Kraft keeps them company on the list.

Nichols College president resigns after allegations

Nichols College president

Glenn Sulmasy, who faced allegations of sexual misconduct while working at the U.S. Coast Guard Academy, has resigned yesterday. “Sulmasy had previously been barred from having contact with Nichols faculty, students or staff, and was also banned from entering the grounds of the Coast Guard Academy,” the Worcester Telegram & Gazette reported.

• An untreated pressure sore (bed sores). Bed sores can happen as older adults become more immobile, but they are preventable with the proper care. Untreated sores are a sure sign that a person is not being cared for properly.

Signs of financial abuse or exploitation

• Lack of amenities the person could typically afford. A sudden problem with affording the basics, especially if the person was able to in the past (with no change in income), is a sign of financial abuse or exploitation. This could be from a family member, caregiver, or con artist.

• Giving excessive financial reimbursement or gifts for care and companionship. Care and companionship are necessary and can take a financial toll occasionally. But if care costs drain an individual’s bank account, it’s time to investigate and re-assess.

• The caregiver controls the person’s money but fails to provide for their needs. A sure sign of financial exploitation is when a caregiver fails to provide an older person with adequate supplies, food, clothing, or other necessities.

• The caregiver is overly concerned about the person spending money. Caregivers should be concerned with an individual’s spending habits if it is damaging to their health or well-being. Still, average daily spending should not be of concern to a caregiver.

• Unexpected or unexplainable property transfers such as a power of attorney or a new will. These can be especially concerning when the person in care cannot comprehend the transaction or what it means. When in doubt, family and friends should look into these transactions carefully.

Signs of psychological and emotional abuse

• Unexplained or uncharacteristic changes in behavior. A drastic

change in demeanor or a withdrawal from normal activities is a red flag that abuse may be present.

• Unexplained weight loss or appetite changes. If medical professionals can find no other cause, it may be worth investigating if abuse is the cause of a sudden change in weight or appetite.

• The caregiver isolates the person from others. A caregiver should always be willing to help older individuals visit their loved ones and medical professionals.

• The caregiver is verbally aggressive, uncaring, or demeaning. Older adults deserve genuine

care and compassion. Rude, dismissive, or aggressive behavior from a caretaker should be a red flag for potential abuse.

Signs of physical abuse

• Inadequately explained fractures, bruises, welts, cuts, sores, or burns. Frequent and unexplained injuries are concerning, especially if the individual under care cannot recall daily events easily.

• Unexplained sexually transmitted diseases. STDs and STIs in older adults under professional care could indicate sexual abuse and warrant an investigation to find the root cause.

Some breaking news as I put my thoughts together here: the Patriots are bringing cornerback

J.C. Jackson back to New England.

According to reports, Jackson — who has been benched in recent weeks with the Los Angeles Chargers — has been traded to the Pats in exchange for a swap of late-round draft picks with LA.

Jackson, 27, played his first four NFL seasons with the Patriots and was named to the Pro Bowl in 2021. As a free agent the ensuing offseason, left New England to sign a five-year, $82.5 million contract with the Chargers.

Since signing that deal prior to the 2022 season, Jackson has played seven games with Los Angeles, totaling just one interception. In four seasons and 62 games with the Patriots, Jackson had 25 interceptions.

Now, Jackson returns to the Pats, as the two teams have agreed to rework Jackson’s remaining salary for this season, with the Chargers paying the majority of his $12 million guaranteed salary in 2023, according to reports.

It’s a big deal for the Patriots because the trade comes just moments after a report that star rookie cornerback Christian Gonzalez will miss the rest of the season after

dislocating his shoulder and tearing his labrum in last Sunday’s loss to the Cowboys.

Jackson returns to New England with some injuries of his own though. Last year with the Chargers, Jackson suffered a season-ending knee injury that he says is still not fully healed yet. So, keep an eye on that.

As for the rest of this Patriots team, it really is all about the quarterback. And if you’re watching Mac Jones and still believe he’s got what it takes to be one of these elite NFL quarterbacks, then his agent must be paying you to feel that way.

There are still some media members who continue to desperately dig for excuses for Jones. “It’s his offensive line,” they tweet with internal shame. They know they’re wrong about continuing to let Jones off the hook, but they will never admit it.

What it comes down to is, Jones is just not a Bill Belichick guy. Maybe Belichick thought he could work his magic and turn water into wine. But he’s finding out the hard way that he won’t be able to do that with this one. The Patriots simply need to look for another quarterback in the offseason.

—Many people have great things to say about Major League Baseball this season after they implemented

several new rules in an attempt to speed up the game and increase scoring. It worked, in the regular season at least.

Because, does the MLB Postseason have any buzz at all right now?

Selfishly, if the Red Sox had made the playoffs, I’d probably care more about the Postseason, which began this week with the Wild Card round. But overall, I still feel as if nobody in the sports world really cares much about this year’s MLB Postseason. And to be honest, I’m really not sure what the reason is.

If I had to guess, I’d say it’s because there are several major sports cities that didn’t make the tournament. The Red Sox aren’t in it. Neither New York team is involved. Neither Chicago team advanced.

And also, some of the most polarizing teams are watching from home like the rest of us. Those teams include the Los Angeles Angels, the Seattle Mariners, and the San Diego Padres, to name a few.

There are some really unique superstars on those teams, like Shohei Ohtani, Mike Trout, Fernando Tatis, Juan Soto, and Julio Rodriguez. That’s not even including some of the stars on teams in the aforementioned cities of Boston, New York,

and Chicago.

New stars will emerge from this Postseason, I get it. But, internally, Major League Baseball has to be disappointed to see so many superstars not playing in October, especially after all the good things they did to put the game in the spotlight throughout the regular season.

Another win for the NFL, I guess.

—Finally, I do need to mention the Celtics trading for Jrue Holiday this week. First and foremost, it’s a great move for the C’s.

However, when you combine everything that Brad Stevens gave up this offseason to acquire both Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis, is it too greedy of me to wish that they just went all in on trying to trade for Damian Lillard instead of multiple moves for Porzingis and Holiday?

A lot of people here in Boston are happy with these moves. And in general, I do feel a lot better about the Porzingis trade, now that Holiday is in the mix.

But you know what would make me feel even better than that? If Lillard was Boston’s starting point guard this season instead.

Oh well.

Follow Danny on instagram @ DannyPicard.

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

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come to Foxboro for Week 5.

The Patriots will have to learn something from their Week 4 failure in Dallas. Jones finished the game 12-of-21 for 150 pass yards. He turned the ball over three times, with two interceptions and a lost fumble.

first interception of the game, and DaRon Bland took it to the house for a pick-six, giving Dallas a 28-3 lead at the half.

Bland intercepted Jones again in the first possession of the second half, which led to a Cowboys field goal and a 31-3 lead.

beat good teams. So, definitely a lot to learn from. Definitely disappointed in myself. I feel like I can play a lot better and I have to, to beat good teams.”

Adding to the pain of Sunday’s defeat, the Patriots also lost their two best defensive players to injury.

It was an ugly day for the New England Patriots in Dallas on Sunday. So ugly that Mac Jones was benched in the second half, as the Pats lost to the Cowboys, 38-3.

New England is now 1-3 on the season. The 2-2 New Orleans Saints now

The lost fumble came early in the second quarter, as Jones was sacked at his own 6-yard line and lost the ball, leading to Leighton Vander Esch picking it up and running into the end zone for a touchdown and an 18-3 Cowboys lead after a successful two-point conversion. Two possessions later, Jones threw his

Jones lasted only one more possession, and then Bailey Zappe took over late in the third quarter. Zappe finished 4-of-9 for 57 pass yards while being sacked once.

“It wasn’t my day,” said Jones in his postgame press conference. “I can’t turn the ball over like that and try to

Linebacker Matthew Judon tore his right biceps and will have surgery that will put him out of action indefinitely. According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, Judon still hopes to play again this year.

Cornerback Christian Gonzalez also left Sunday’s loss with an injury. He tore his right labrum and will be out indefinitely.

PATRIOTS CRUSHED BY COWBOYS, LOSE KEY DEFENSIVE PIECES TO INJURY HOLIDAY TRADED TO CELTICS FOR PLAYERS, DRAFT PICKS

Ok, so the Boston Celtics didn’t get Damian Lillard, but they did acquire another AllStar point guard from the Portland Trail Blazers this week.

The Celtics traded for Jrue Holiday, sending Robert Williams, Malcolm Brogdon, and two first-round picks to the Trail Blazers.

Holiday, 33, had been recently acquired by Portland in a trade that sent Lillard to the Milwaukee Bucks. The Trail Blazers wasted no time flipping Holiday to Boston.

“We are excited to see Jrue in a Celtics uniform,” said Celtics President of Basketball Operations Brad Stevens in a release on the team’s website. “He plays the game with a great competitive character and his impact on and off the court has been felt everywhere throughout his career. We are overjoyed to welcome

Jrue, Lauren, and the entire Holiday family to Boston.”

Holiday won an NBA Championship with the Bucks in 2021, averaging 17.3 points per game, 8.7 assists per game, and 5.7 rebounds per game in 23 games during that playoff run. Last season, Holiday was named an NBA All Star for the second time in his career. He finished the 2022-23 season with 19.3 points per game in 67 games.

Of course, you have to give up something to get something. And the Celtics ended up having to part ways with Williams, a 25-year-old rim protector who the C’s drafted in the first round of the 2018 NBA Draft, and Brogdon, a 30-year-old point guard who won the NBA’s Sixth Man of the Year award in his lone season with the Celtics in 2022-23.

Boston also sent Portland two first-round draft picks in the trade. Those picks are a 2024 first rounder via

Golden State, and an unprotected 2029 first rounder.

The Celtics had their annual Media Day earlier this week, and everyone was excited to have Holiday wearing Green this season.

“There’s a list of guys in the league that you always think you’ll never have a real chance to get that you think are perfect fits and that you’d love to be a Celtic, and Jrue is one of those guys,” said Stevens during his Media Day press conference. “Everybody can see what he does on the court and he’s a really good player, multiple-time All-Star, the defense has been well-documented, etc. But I think it’s just, that he’s an elite teammate, an elite competitive character, all of those things.

“You knew the price was going to be really high, but he’s a guy that we think is a great fit for us, and does so many good things on and off the court for us.”