South Boston Today March 7 2024

FORT POINT STRUGGLES BETWEEN EVADING OR EMBRACING THE MIGRANT TIDAL WAVE

Work recently on the new temporary emergency shelter to support families with children that will open this week in Boston’s Fort Point neighborhood. The building, located at 24 Farnsworth St., has 10,000 square feet of available space and currently serves as the headquarters for the Unitarian Universalist Association. Crews delivered several stacks of military-style cots and several refrigerators to the Farnsworth Street building. A United Way grant, awarded as part of the SafetyNet Shelter Grant Program announced last fall by Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey, supports the temporary overnight emergency shelter for approximately 25 families and their children at the Fort Point location. “There’s still so many unanswered questions,” said Boston City Councilor Ed Flynn. “Traffic? Parking? What’s the role of Public Works? What’s the role of the

Thoughts On The Trump Rally At Castle Island

As many know after seeing the photos and videos on social media, there was a sizeable pro Trump motorcade and rally at South Boston’s Castle Island last Sunday, March 3rd. Many locals were there to see it, and some took part. It wasn’t announced, it just materialized and by some estimates between fifty and 80 vehicles, each crammed with people and covered in American flags and Trump banners drove along Day Blvd and met at the Island’s parking lot.

From there, the crowd left their vehicles, set up a stage on what appeared to be a military flatbed truck, activated a speaker system, from which those gathered recited the Pledge of Allegiance and sang the National Anthem. That was followed by speeches from speakers in attendance. The crowd was orderly and good natured and made up of not only locals, but many people from

outside of South Boston as well. Spectators in the area, surprised by the influx of rally goers were also orderly and respectful with the exception of one guy who kept shouting at them, calling them ‘White Trash’, even though it was a mixed crowd of many backgrounds. The crowd responded with chants of ‘USA’ ‘USA, until the man left the area. With that one exception, there were absolutely no problems or issues. The crowd then lined up for some Sully’s food, packed up and happily left the area. The whole event was in and out in about 90 minutes. Those are the details of the event.

When this newspaper got the word of the political rally en route to the Island, a reporter and a photographer went down to the site to get photos and info. We put it up on our social media pages as did other residents sharing the event with the community. The response

was overwhelmingly positive, some who don’t like Trump expressed their feelings but did so in a respectful manner.

However, later and into the next day, there were about a half dozen people who, after seeing the reports, took issue with the fact that this newspaper, South Boston Today, gave a Trump rally any coverage at all and were furious that locals were participating. They felt that we should never give Trump supporters any coverage – because THEY don’t like the guy. Some demanded we never

do it again. In response to those demands we want to make something perfectly clear. While we want to hear from all views, you don’t get to tell this newspaper what we are allowed to cover and what we’re not. There are many supporters of the former president living here. President Biden has his supporters here as well. But to rehash an old saying, ‘that’s neither here nor there’. When we were notified about the Trump rally, because it was being held in our community, we deemed it to be news to be covered, especially in a

“I love March because it gives us hope that new beginnings are always

presidential election year. We would do it again. If we were notified of a Biden rally being held in our town, we would have done the same – described how the event went with accompanying photos and video. We didn’t editorialize, we reported.

What IS our editorial position is this: No one can tell anyone who they can and cannot vote for or how they must feel towards a particular candidate and their supporters. But it might be a good idea to tone down the vitriol and anger towards neighbors and friends who happen to have different views.

TInformation Center

The Questions Settled, Desperation Sets In

John Ciccone

he question about whether attorney generals in individual states have the power to prevent candidates from being on the federal election ballots in their state has been answered. The decision is final. Colorado’s liberal power wielders thought that because they hated former president Donald Trump, they could make an end run around the system and knock his campaign off track. Of course, the lower courts that were involved were dominated by ultra partisan Democrat appointed judges who agreed. At this point they figured hey, why not? None of the other bogus harassment tactics in the form of accusations and indictments and lawsuits that will be overturned seem to be working. So, the liberal politicians in at least 3 states thought they’d give banning from the ballots in their states a try. It was kind of a last ditch effort, a Hail Mary pass of sorts. But then reality stepped in.

The highest court in the land intervened and hit them with the facts – the attempts to ban a candidate in a national election is not within the power of the states. Never has been. Doing so is unconstitutional and it was, in fact, just another form of harassment they tried and failed at. What does it tell us when the decision by the United States Supreme Court was unanimous? The ruling was 9-0, with even the 3 liberals on the bench voting against preventing Donald Trump from running in those states. To their credit, even the liberal justices followed the US Constitution. To allow the bogus tactic to stand would also have denied the people in those states the ability to vote for the candidate of their choice. It didn’t go unnoticed that those politicians and media types on the Left who have been screaming about Conservatives destroying our democracy had to be prevented by a Supreme Court decision from doing that very thing. In a sense, the leftists used an old Communist and Nazi tactic: Accuse the opposition of what you yourself are guilty.

This presidential election season is prov-

ing to be like no other. What’s happening in our country has never in our history happened before. It was revealed earlier this week, that the Biden Administration, in addition to having our borders wide open and allowing millions of illegal immigrants to just pour in, actually and secretly have been sending planes to foreign countries, mostly Central and South American countries, but others as well, and flying illegals into the United States and dispersing them in cities around the nation. That’s right, the count so far is 320,000 of them. Think about it. The Biden Administration has literally flown 320,000 unvetted non-citizens into America. The vast majority of them are minors that are approaching the age of 18 – voting age. And now, right on cue, enter US Attorney General Merrick Garland, who has now vowed to fight against Voter ID laws, because he says it’s ‘a plot to disadvantage minorities at the voting booth. Even after being presented with the overwhelming numbers of people in every racial and ethnic group that are in favor of showing an ID to vote, which by the way he is well aware of, he still vows to do all he can to prevent such laws.

Most Americans can now see what’s going on – what the plan is. For those relatively few who still don’t get it, here is exactly the scheme they’ve been working on. Flood the country with millions of non – citizens, frantically work to get them on the voter rolls – to register as Democrats of course and eliminate any and all requirements that voters prove that they are who they say they are when going to vote. And then there is the ballot harvesting and the votes that miraculously turn up the next day etc. As I stated, most people are now well aware of what’s going on. There are some who still don’t get it. But there is another category as well. There are others who know it, clearly see it, and want it to happen.

I’ll close with another scheme the American public has caught onto - those in Washington denying what people

can definitely see happening. The Biden Administration sends out it’s spokespeople to try to convince the public that what they know to be true – is not. The upsurge in violent crime being committed by migrants is just in our imagination and made up of lies by Republicans when we can see the police data, know the names of those being raped, murdered and robbed as shown on the news almost daily now and how bad and dangerous blue state cities have become. And through all the rising violence, the government still tries to disarm the law-abiding American people and leave the public defenseless. They were telling us the border is secured and now

that they realize everyone knows that it isn’t, they try to blame Trump for the border crisis. And now, in their latest desperate move, they are trying to convince us that Joe Biden is not only in perfect health, but he is filled with energy, sharp as a tack and is at the top of his game. No one actually believes any of that – no one. What’s next, will they insist that he’s doing back flips on a trampoline for his morning workouts and has taken up downhill ski racing? When the administration tries to make the public believe what are obvious lies, they are insulting our intelligence. And if they really think we’re buying this bs, we certainly have reason to question theirs.

RMV license suspensions coming out of the blue

In the internet age, the past is really never that far behind, and it can resurface seemingly out of nowhere with current-day consequences.

Just ask a few constituents of Millbury’s Sen. Michael Moore — he said last week that he had two people get in touch with him recently to say that they were called in for hearings with the Registry of Motor Vehicles and had their driver’s licenses suspended based on things that happened 18 years ago in one case and 30 years ago in the other. Both people, he said, had substance abuse issues “many years ago.”

“So I’m just kind of curious, is there an initiative going on?” Moore asked Registrar of Motor Vehicles Colleen Ogilvie last week at a budget hearing. “I don’t see the public safety benefit where these

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.

individuals have now — they’ve been clean and sober for many years, they’re back in the workforce. Can you help me with that?”

Ogilvie said the most likely explanation is that “other states are cleaning out their closets” and following through on their responsibility to inform Massachusetts if there are any outstanding violations or convictions associated with drivers licensed here.

“Typically, we’ll find out from other states there was an unpaid fine or an unpaid, unresolved action that we were not notified [of at the time]. It’s our requirement to put it on the driving record. In certain cases, we adjudicate it if it wasn’t adjudicated at the time,” she said. “So if they were supposed to have been suspended at the time of the event, but we were never notified and we didn’t suspend, it is our obligation to sus -

Hearts, Hugs & Hope: A

pend them upon notification.”

The registrar also explained during the budget hearing that the RMV is continuing its focus on trying to maintain up-to-date driving histories amid electronic record-sharing between states in pursuit of the goal of “one driver and one record.”

She said more states are adopting the “driver history record process,” which “supports the electronic exchange of out-of-state convictions, withdrawals, and provides visibility of individuals that may have more than one driver history record and sets rules for us maintaining those records.”

So, if you thought you got off scot-free for not paying that speeding ticket in another state years ago, maybe keep an eye out for a letter from the RMV. — Colin A. Young A shelter shift: House Dems want limits on shelter stays

The House Ways and Means Committee advanced a bill (H 4284) on Tuesday that would direct $245M more in funding to emergency family shelters. House Democrats say the cash should last through June, while they’re looking to temporarily impose limits on how long families can stay in shelters. This is a shift in House Dems’ attitude, reports the News Service’s Chris Lisinski. The bill would tap into the state’s transitional escrow fund to cover the additional costs, and most people wouldn’t be allowed to stay in shelters for more than nine consecutive months — plus another three months for pregnant women, people with disabilities and those with jobs — and overflow sites would have to operate under more concrete hours.

continued on page 12

Virtual Alzheimer’s Support Group Offered by Compass on the Bay

March 28, 2024, 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. Call 617-268-5450 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.

Councilors

Flynn and Muphy Hearing On Impact of ForProfit Urgent Care Centers

In January, Councilor Flynn and Councilor Murphy filed a hearing order to discuss the impact of for-profit urgent care centers on non-profit Community Health Centers. The hearing is scheduled for this Thursday, March 7 at 2pm at the Iannella Chamber in Boston City Hall.

Over the last few years, the City of Boston has seen an increase in the number of urgent care centers, where they offer walk-in services for patients

with non-emergency medical issues. While residents can decide where they choose to receive health care services, for-profit urgent care centers that are placed in close proximity to community health centers can have the potential to undermine the health centers’ patient base and put the financial viability of these invaluable institutions at risk.

A proposal for a for-profit urgent care center on West Broadway, a block away from the South Boston Community Health Center (SBCHC), was recently withdrawn after receiving fierce community opposition. The proposal had received a letter of support by the Boston Planning and Development Agency (BPDA) at the Zoning Board of Appeal (ZBA). The for-profit urgent care posed serious concerns for the financial stability and operations of the Health Center, which has been providing critical and professional health care services to the

neighborhood for 50 years, and services 70,000 visits annually that include families, seniors, persons with disabilities, immigrants, communities of color, and our most vulnerable in public housing.

“For-profit urgent care centers have the potential to pose serious financial implications for our non-profit community health centers - and therefore threaten the public health of a community - when placed in close proximity to each other. Many of our neighborhood health centers in the City of Boston have been long-time partners in the community with a track record of delivering world-class healthcare to families and residents,” said Councilor Flynn. “I look forward to hearing from the leaders of our Community Health Centers, the Boston Public Health Commission and the Boston Planning Development Agency on the important role that our Community Health Centers play in public health,

how for-profit urgent care centers can impact them, and how we can best coordinate to continue ensuring the success of our nonprofit health centers.”

Councilor Murphy stated, “I thank Councilor Flynn for allowing me to join him in what is a vital conversation. I look forward to hearing from the Planning and Development Agency on why the plan for a for-profit urgent care center was approved, especially in that context and especially with strenuous opposition on the record. I am thankful the voice of the community was heard, and the project was ultimately withdrawn.”

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

Flynn Calls for Blue Ribbon Commission on Downtown Office Vacancies

Boston City Councilor Ed Flynn has filed a resolution this week calling for the establishment of a Blue Ribbon Commission - made up of business leaders, city and state officials, and relevant experts - to study and make recommendations regarding the issue of office vacancies in Downtown. This follows a hearing that was held last year by Councilor Flynn on bringing back all City of Boston Board meetings in-person, with a hy -

brid option for the public, in an effort to both bring much-needed foot traffic and economic activity downtown, and improve community engagement.

Downtown Boston is an important economic driver of our city, state, and regional economy. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, many of Boston’s neighborhoods, especially Downtown Boston and the Financial District, have been negatively impacted, with office vacancies and decreasing building values continuing to be a serious issue.

Recent analysis from brokerage firm Newmark indicated that office vacancy rate is up from 14.8% last year to 20.1% in Downtown Boston at present. With three quarters of the City of Boston’s annual budget generated from property taxes, research by the Boston Policy Institute and Tufts University’s Center for State Policy

Analysis also indicated that the decreasing value of office spaces could lead to a potential shortfall of $1.2 to $1.5 billion in city revenue over the next 5 years. The same report identified remote work policies and high interest rates as having led to this dynamic, and referred to these challenges as a potential “economic act of God”. While the city has since conveyed that they have not seen any indicators from real estate markets that would lead to a revenue shortfall, they are monitoring the situation closely.

At the same time, commercial real estate executives have also sought city, state, and federal assistance to help bring more workers and foot traffic back to Downtown Boston and the Financial District. It is imperative that the city takes proactive steps and plan accordingly for all contingencies to effectively

address any potential revenue shortfall in the future.

“Given the alarming reports of potentially significant budget shortfalls on the horizon, I am calling for the establishment of a Blue Ribbon Commission made up of business and labor leaders, city and state officials, real estate executives, neighborhood advocates, and other relevant experts to study the impact of office vacancies and strategize ways to fill these vacancies,” said Councilor Flynn.

“A vibrant Downtown is critical to the long term prosperity of our city, and we all agree that healthy economic activity and higher foot traffic is muchneeded to restore confidence and also improve public safety in the neighborhood.”

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

Guinness Stout adds lots of flavor to this hearty beef stew. Use round or lean chuck in this recipe. It’s a great stew to serve when celebrating the Parade! Enjoy with crusty rolls or biscuits and a salad.

Yield: Serves 6 to 8

Ingredients:

3 thick slices bacon, diced

2 pounds lean stew beef, round or lean chuck, cut in 1-inch cubes

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

2 large onions, chopped, about 2 to 3 cups

1 clove garlic, minced

2 to 3 cups diced or sliced carrots

1 1/2 cups Guinness stout

1 cup beef broth

2 tablespoons tomato paste

2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce

1 bay leaf

1/2 teaspoon dried leaf thyme

2 to 3 cups diced potatoes

2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley salt and pepper, to taste

Preparation:

In a large saucepan or Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the bacon, turning, until lightly browned.

In a food storage bag, combine the flour, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and pepper. Add beef cubes and toss until well coated.

Add the beef and onions to the bacon and continue cooking, turning frequently, until beef and onions are browned. Add the garlic and cook, stirring, for 1 minute longer. Add the carrots, stout, and broth. Stir in the tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce. Add the bay leaf and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook at a low simmer for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until beef is very tender.

Add the thyme and potatoes to the beef mixture and bring to a boil. Cover, reduce heat, and simmer for about 30 minutes longer, until potatoes are tender.

Stir in the parsley and add salt and pepper, to taste. Cook for 5 minutes longer.

Simple-to-make crusty rustic loaf of soda bread

Course bread

Cuisine Irish

Keyword Irish, Irish Soda Bread, St. Patrick’s Day

Prep Time 12 minutes

Cook Time 45 minutes

Servings 1 loaf

Author LeAnne Shor

Ingredients

• 3 1/2 cups unbleached all purpose flour 420 g

• 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt 3 g

• 3/4 teaspoon baking soda

• 1 1/2 cups buttermilk 337 g

Instructions

1.Preheat the oven to 450°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside. To a large mixing bowl, add the flour, salt, and baking soda. Whisk to combine thoroughly.

Beef and Guinness Stew Traditional Irish Soda Bread GREEN BEER

Serve with crusty rolls, biscuits, or slices of freshly baked Irish soda bread. Serves 6.

2.Using a wooden spoon, make a well in the center of the dry ingredients. Add the buttermilk to the dry ingredients in the “well.” Use the the wooden spoon to gentle stir the ingredients together, starting at the center of the bowl and slowly working out. The dough will be very shaggy, that’s perfect!

3.Lightly flour a work surface, and pour the dough out onto the surface. Use your hands to gently knead the dough about 4 times, until it comes together, and the surface is slightly smoother. Use the palms of yours hands to shape into around loaf.

4.Transfer the loaf to the prepared baking sheet. Lightly sprinkle the top with flour.Use a sharp chefs knife to slash a large X on the top of the dough.

5.Transfer right away to the oven and bake for 15 minutes at 450°. Lower the temperature to 400°F, rotate the pan 180° in the oven, and bake for another 25-30 minutes until deeply golden brown. Allow the bread to cool for at least 20minutes, then serve warm with Kerrygold Salted Butter.

Here’s everything you need to know to make a perfect pint of green beer. Slainte!

Whether you’re hosting a St. Paddy’s Day party or simply treating yourself to a pint, these are the tips and tricks you need to know to make the perfect pint of green beer.

What you’ll need: Beer, Pint glass, Green food coloring

Grab a pint glass and add 3-5 drops of green food coloring. Make sure to add the coloring first and the beer after! Stick with classic liquid green food coloring that comes in the little squeeze bottles. (Adding blue to yellow-hued beer seems like a clever alternative, but you’ll end up with turquoise beer.)

Use a light-colored beer such as a pilsner or pale ale. The lighter the beer, the brighter the color. Slowly pour beer into the pint glass and watch the color mix as the beer goes in. If you want the coloring more vibrant add a drop or two more of food coloring.

Serve a pint of this green beer with your favorite bar snack or a classic Irish dish for a festive St. Paddy’s drink that’s as green as it gets.

OL Street Brownies

n March 2, 2024, last Saturday, the L Street Brownies gave a “Southie Proud” donation to the South Boston Allied War Veterans Council. President of the L Street Brownies, Dan Monahan, said they’re doing their part in helping to keep our traditions alive honoring our Veterans on Evacuation Day.” Commander of the SBAWVC, Randy Greeley had a big smile and was grateful. These two non-profits do a great job working together for all of South Boston.

Please Join Us

The South Boston Citizens’ Association

“The Nation’s Oldest Neighborhood Civic Organization” Thomas McGrath President

2024 Evacuation Day Events

POP LYNCH BOWL-A-RAMA SOUTHIE BOWL 543 EAST BROADWAY

When:

SUDAY, March 10th, 2024 @12:00-3:00PM 21+ EVENT

SPONSORED BY: JOHN TUNNEY and SBCA ANDREA FLAHERTY, CHERYL JOYCE, JOYCE HIGGINS, RICHIE DEVOE, TIM SMYTHE, PAULINE BARE Honorary Chairpersons

Please Join Us

The South Boston Citizens’ Association

“The Nation’s Oldest Neighborhood Civic Organization” Thomas McGrath President

2024 Evacuation Day Events

Boxing Show

PETER WELCH’S GYM 371 DORCHESTER AVE.

When:

SATURDAY, March 9th & 16TH, 2024 @12:00PM DOORS OPEN AT 11:30AM

SPONSORED BY: PETER WELCH and SBCA PETER WELCH

MIKE LARKIN

REGISTER OF DEEDS STEVE MURPHY Honorary Chairmen

The South Boston Citizens’ Association

“The Nation’s Oldest Neighborhood Civic Organization” Thomas E. McGrath, President

2024 Evacuation Day Events

Tommy and Eddie Butler Senior Salute

Where:

Curley Community Center 1663 Columbia Rd., South Boston, MA02127

When:

Saturday, March 9th, 2024, 11AM

Over All pick-ups 10:30 AM

Contact Tyissha Jones-Horner -617-635-4366 Music by Mike Reynolds

Sponsored by Mayor Michelle Wu and SBCA

Mayor Michelle Wu, Michael Flaherty, The Butler Family, Joyce Biele, Mary Collins and Kathy Flynn

Guy

The Wine 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….

2022 Torbreck Woodcutter’s Shiraz, Barossa Valley, Australia, ($24.99). Layers of red, black and blue fruits in this one. Red cherry, raspberry coulis, blueberry 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.

2020 Penfolds Bin 28, Kalimna Shiraz, South Australia, ($31.99). Bin

Irish Wolfhound History

By Denise Flaim

As far back as Roman times, there were accounts of large Greyhound-like dogs in Ireland – called cú faoil in ancient Gaelic – revered for their size and ferocity. Some Irish chieftains and warriors even grafted the word cú onto their own names as an honorific, signifying that they were as venerable and loyal as the dogs themselves.

Like many Sighthounds of the time-misted past, ownership of these dogs was reserved for the high born. Over the centuries, they became coveted gifts to emperors and ambassadors, kings and cardinals, often arriving in ancient times in symbolic groups of seven, tied with silver chains. These imposing Irish dogs were prized in battle. Guardians of property and livestock, they also hunted deer, elk, boar, and – as their modern name attests – wolves.

The Irish people “are not without wolves and greyhounds to

hunt them, bigger of bone and limb than a colt,” wrote Edmund Campion in his “Historie of Ireland” in 1571. So popular were the dogs overseas that in 1652 Oliver Cromwell issued a declaration prohibiting their exportation. While some maintain that the story of Gelert was fabricated by an innkeeper who wanted to improve foot traffic, the veracity of the tale almost doesn’t matter. It embodies the strong and sentimental attachment that the Irish long had to their native hound.

But neither royal fiat nor flowery folklore could do much about the fate of Ireland’s ancient wolf dog. After the last wolf in Ireland reportedly met his end in 1786, the dogs themselves soon followed suit. By 1836, the breed was included on a list entitled “Notices of Animals which have disappeared from Ireland.”

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 oakladen 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”.

2022 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 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,2021, Coonawarra, Australia, ($17.99). Deep, inky, dark ruby-red color, a little bit lighter on the rim. The nose is full, structured and herbaceous, with aromas of floral and cedar, melded with blackcurrant, cherry, licorice and mint. Some have described this one as medium-bodied, but I say full-bodied, helped along by aromas of succulent blackcurrant, cherry and blackberry entwined with licorice, cedar, mint and rich earth notes. 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!

Massport is currently accepting applications for the following Scholarships:

• THOMAS J. BUTLER MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

Awarded to a high school senior who resides and is involved in community service in South Boston, with a minimum 3.0 GPA.

• DEBORAH HADDEN GRAY MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

Awarded to a high school senior who resides and is involved in community service or employment in the city of Boston, Chelsea, Revere or Winthrop, with a minimum 3.0 GPA.

• LOWELL L. RICHARDS III MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

Awarded to a high school senior who resides and is involved in community service in the city of Boston, Chelsea, Revere, or Winthrop, with a minimum 3.0 GPA.

• DIVERSITY STEM SCHOLARSHIP

Awarded to high school seniors of color who reside or attend school in the city of Boston, Chelsea, Revere, Winthrop, Worcester, Bedford, Concord, Lexington, or Lincoln, and are involved in community service with a minimum 3.0 GPA.

Scholarship applications must be received by Massport no later than 5:00 p.m. on Friday, April 26, 2024. For more information on these scholarships, including application and criteria please visit www.massport.com

267 Old Colony Avenue

Zoom Link: bit.ly/3OYPBEa

Toll Free: (833) 568 - 8864

Meeting ID: 161 173 2930

Project Description:

The BPDA is hosting a joint Impact Advisory Group (IAG) and Public Meeting for the proposed 267 Old Colony Avenue project in South Boston. The meeting will include a presentation followed by questions and comments from the IAG and public. The purpose of the meeting is to review the Notice of Project Change, which solely includes the change in dwelling units for the approved project from rental units to homeownership units. How to Participate: Please register for the meeting using the following Zoom link: bit.ly/3OYPBEa Webinar ID: 161 173 2930 Toll-Free Call-in Number: 833.568.8864 (This is always the same number).

La información de esta reunión es crucial para usted como residente y parte interesada de la ciudad de Boston. Se encuentra disponible el servicio gratuito de interpretación de la información brindada en estas reuniones. Si necesita servicios de traducción, contáctese con:(ebony.darosa@boston.gov) (617.918.4419) La reunión está programada para el 03/18/2024.

BCYF Tynan Free Throw Contest 2024

The Tynan gym was packed on Monday night with youth, teens, parents and friends as the Annual Basketball Free Throw Compe-

tition started. The atmosphere was alive with excitement as each age group vied for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place trophies. Mayor Ray Flynn was in attendance to

give a little coaching and build some self-esteem as the competition tightened. This was one of the largest turn outs and defiantly looking forward to

next year. Shout out to the Tynan staff for organizing and coordinating this wonderful family event and thank you to the SBCA and sponsors.

14-17 Girls Champions (L-R); Liza Boughner (1st place), Hailey Alexander ( 2nd place), Vivian Strandberg ( 3rd place)

11-13 Girls Champions (L-R); Chrissy Merdei, (1st place), Kendall Collins, (2nd place), Maddie Quick, (3rd place)

8-10 Girls Champions (L-R); Harper Rodriguez, (1st place), Emily Fanning, (2nd place), Hannah Sheehan, (3rd place)

4-17 Boys Champions (L-R); Aayash Patel (1st place), Jack Hynes (2nd place), Ryan McGarrell (3rd place)

11-13 Boys Champions (L-R); Ronan Foley, (2nd place), Jayden Bengoche, (1st place), Aries Soto, (3rd place)

8-10 Boys Champions (L-R); Lakin Haigh, (3rd place), Michael Burke, (1st place), Frankie Zinter, (2nd place)

Migrants continued from front page Boston Police Department, Inspectional Services, Fire Department?”

The Fort Point Neighborhood Association told the Boston Herald that it received answers to questions it had submitted to the governor’s office over the past few weeks. “We are optimistic the best possible outcome for the sheltered families can be achieved while minimizing impact on the neighborhood,” Tom Ready, with the Fort Point Neighborhood Association, said in a written statement. “Unitarian Universalists believe we have the moral obligation to support vulnerable families, including migrant families. Every child deserves a safe place to sleep, and we are pleased to do our part to help them,” Unitarian Universalist Association said in a statement. The search for additional safety-net sites has been ongoing as the temporary shelter at the Melnea Cass Recreational Complex in Roxbury neared its 400-person capacity just days after it opened.

Amid an escalating shelter crisis, Massachusetts has introduced controversial measures to limit the duration families can stay in emergency shelters, sparking a heated debate on Beacon Hill. The de-

cision, aimed at mitigating a strained shelter system due to an influx of migrants and a surge in post-pandemic evictions, proposes a maximum stay of nine months, extendable to 12 months under specific conditions. This move is seen as a response to the dual pressures of soaring demand for emergency housing and dwindling state revenues, yet it raises critical questions about the fates of those affected.

The shelter system in Massachusetts is under severe pressure, with approximately 7,500 families currently housed and hundreds more waiting for accommodation. The state’s expenditure on shelters has skyrocketed to $1 billion annually, a figure that is becoming increasingly unsustainable. The newly approved measure by Mariano’s House seeks to alleviate this burden by enforcing time limits on shelter stays. However, this temporary solution has been met with skepticism and concern, particularly regarding its impact on vulnerable families and the realistic prospects of finding affordable housing within the stipulated timeframe.

As debates continue, there is a growing consensus that addressing the shelter crisis requires more than just imposing time limits on stays. Critics argue for a multi-faceted approach that includes increasing

the availability of affordable housing, providing robust support services, and addressing systemic issues such as employment barriers and discrimination. The emphasis on rapid rehousing strategies and the need for a more compassionate and holistic response to homelessness are gaining traction among advocates and some policymakers. Without such comprehensive measures, the risk of exacerbating the plight of the most vulnerable remains high.

Massachusetts stands at a critical juncture, faced with the challenge of balancing fiscal responsibility with the urgent needs of its homeless population. While the time limit policy may offer a temporary reprieve from the financial strain on the state’s shelter system, it also brings to the forefront the broader issue of housing insecurity. The debate over shelter time limits is not just about numbers and budgets; it is a reflection of the state’s values and its commitment to protecting its most disadvantaged citizens. As discussions evolve, the focus must remain on finding sustainable, long-term solutions that address the root causes of homelessness and ensure that families like Buckley’s are not left behind.

Worcester Board of Health OK’s city injection site

Window continued from page 4 discussion about Mass Save surrounded whether the program should continue to be administered mainly by utility companies, how the program will turn its focus toward decarbonization, and how it can reach the demographic that needs it most. An analysis of options and a look at stakeholder input are up first before any reforms become official.

MCM Properties

mcmproperties.com

The Worcester Board of Health voted 4-0 Monday night to approve the creation of an overdose prevention center — also known as a safe injection site — as a pilot program. Next steps are politically and legally unclear, as the centers are illegal federally, and Mass. hasn’t approved them, but cities and towns are able to establish centers without a bill being passed by state lawmakers, reports Henry Schwan for the Telegram & Gazette. Worcester’s rate of opioidrelated overdose deaths has risen in past years, and proponents aligned with the Board of Health say the city needs the program to save lives, though what role city councilors and city management play in the ultimate decision is TBD.

Analysis, stakeholder input precedes Mass Save reforms Energy efficiency program Mass Save could see some structural changes in the coming few years, as the program is in the last year of its current three-year operating plan. At a Tuesday hearing held by the Senate Committee on Global Warming and Climate Change,

February tax revenues fall short, continue longest streak of below-benchmark revenues in two decades

February is now the eighth month in a row tax collection in Massachusetts have fallen short of expectations — an extension of what was already the longest streak of below-benchmark months in over two decades, reports Colin A. Young for the News Service. The Department of Revenue reported on Tuesday that it collected $2.007B in February — 1.3 percent more than collections in February 2023, but 0.6 percent short of the administration’s revised benchmark February 2024. It’s been nine months since Mass. saw tax collections come in at or above the monthly benchmark.

St. Peter Academy Leaping into Learning!

This year is a Leap Year, but at St. Peter Academy we leap into learning every day! We took full advantage of the extra day in February. The Early Education Division counted all the way to 29, colored and leaped like frogs. The Elementary Division worked on their writing and math assignments with a Leap Year theme. St. Peter Academy always adds fun to learning!

The mission of St Peter Academy is to encourage lifelong learning

through a rigorous differentiated curriculum. Utilizing innovative best practices, each child is recognized as an individual and is encouraged to attain their maximum potential – spiritually, emotionally, academically, physically, and socially. We are a close knit, diverse community of learners who foster social justice with a sincere understanding and respect for all. To learn more about our wonderful school, please email spa@stpeteracademy.com or

call 617-268-0750.

St. Peter Academy is an independent community based private school and is South Boston’s only Full Year Toddler Program through Grade 6 School. It is privately funded, enriched with extended learning hours and summer programs, and fosters a nurturing, safe and individualized environment. We welcome the opportunity to have you visit St. Peter Academy to see for yourself that ours is a unique and wonderful learning community. It is truly a “GEM” in the heart of the South Boston community.

St. Peter Academy is continuing to accept applications for the current and upcoming 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

Happy 109th Birthday Sister Evelyn!

Happy 109th Birthday Sister Evelyn! On Thursday, March 7, our former First Grade Teacher, Sister Evelyn Hurley, SCN, will celebrate her 109th Birthday! All of us at South Boston Catholic Academy wish Sister Evelyn a Very Blessed and Happy Birthday! The students at SBCA

made her beautiful cards wishing her a Happy Birthday and they were mailed to her at the Mother House in Nazareth. KY. Some students wrote...”Dear Sister Evelyn, how fun was it to teach First Grade?”; “Where was your classroom?”; “When you were a kid, were there any cars?”; “ Do you have any

sisters or brothers?”; “Do you have a cat or dog?”; “Congratulations Sister Evelyn on being 109! Have a great birthday!”; “SBCA misses you so much!”; “Wishing you the best birthday ever!”; We all wish you a very wonderful birthday!”; and “Dear Sister Evelyn, Happy Birthday! 109 years old, that is an accomplishment. One more thing... Happy St. Patrick’s Day, too!” Sister Evelyn was born in South Boston, MA on March 7, 1915.

She became a Sister of Charity of Nazareth in 1933. She resided at St. Brigid Convent for over 60 years and taught in the First Grade at St. Brigid School for most of those years. She is an amazing woman and Religious Sister and she prays for everyone daily. “God has been good to me.”

-Sister Evelyn Hurley. New families are welcome to email our admissions team at admissions@sbcatholicadacademy.org for more info. about South Boston Catholic Academ

This week,

Danny shared his thoughts on the latest New England Patriots draft rumors:

Assuming the New England Patriots don’t do what I want them to do in the next couple weeks — which is, convince Tom Brady to come out of retirement and return to the Patriots for one last season — then it seems more and more likely that they will draft a quarterback with the No. 3 overall pick in this year’s NFL Draft on April 25.

That’s also assuming the Pats don’t decide to sign a different veteran quarterback like Kirk Cousins, or trade for a quarterback like Justin Fields, or even the worst thing they could possibly ever do: re-commit to Mac Jones. Yikes!

If they went with a Brady, or Cousins, or even a Fields, then I’d say it’s a no-brainer for the Patriots to draft wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. with the No. 3 overall pick next month. But if they decide to not do any of those things — which is the most likely outcome — then it’s a no-brainer to draft a quarterback at No. 3 overall.

And judging by many of the mock drafts out there, it does feel as if the Chicago Bears are fully committed to USC standout quarterback 2022 Heisman Trophy

winner Caleb Williams at No. 1. The question then becomes, who will fall to New England at No. 3?

That all depends on what the Washington Commanders do at No. 2. The Commanders are reportedly locked in on taking a quarterback at that spot. But the top two available — according to the mock-draft “experts” at least — are UNC’s Drake Maye and 2023 Heisman winner, LSU’s Jayden Daniels.

Many of the mock drafts I’ve seen, for what they’re worth, have Maye going to Washington at No. 2, which would leave Daniels there for the taking for the Patriots.

Now, I’ve been on the record expressing my desire for the Patriots to draft Harrison Jr. out of Ohio State. I think he could quite possibly be a generational receiver. And when you consider how many times we’ve expressed our frustrations over the years with the Patriots “lacking offensive weapons,” then it would certainly seem illogical to pass on a receiver like Harrison Jr. if he’s available at No. 3 overall, which it’s expected he will be.

So, in a vacuum, yes, I’d still have a really tough time passing

on Harrison Jr., if I’m the Pats. But that’s ONLY if they decide to bring in a quarterback like Cousins. Then I would still draft a quarterback in the second round. But if you put a gun to my head right now, I don’t think the Patriots are going to bring in another quarterback from anywhere other than the draft. And if that’s the case, then they have no choice. They have to draft Daniels at No. 3.

And make no mistake about it, that’s not a bad thing. Don’t let my obsession with Harrison Jr. be mistaken as a knock on Daniels. He’s legit. In fact, I’ve even expressed on many of my podcasts that I think Daniels has some Lamar Jackson in him.

Daniels is 6-foot-4, 210 pounds. He can throw. He can run. Go watch his game against Alabama last year. He threw for 219 yards with two touchdown passes, and he ran for 163 yards with a rushing touchdown. I think Patriots fans will love him. In fact, if I had the No. 2 overall pick instead, I’d probably take Daniels over Maye.

Here’s what ESPN NFL Draft analyst Jordan Reid had to say about Daniels, and his projection of

the Patriots drafting him at No. 3:

“I’m still not convinced that the Patriots will ultimately take a quarterback at this spot — even though they should,” said Reid in his latest ESPN.com mock draft. “[The Patriots] lack playmakers all over the roster, and both starting offensive tackles are scheduled to become free agents (Mike Onwenu and Trent Brown). They need more than just a starting quarterback, but with around $100 million in cap space, New England can fill holes in free agency and draft Daniels — an exceptional vertical passer with good touch on his throws — to build around him. The Heisman Trophy winner also has mobility traits to help mask some of the team’s deficiencies.”

Reid hints at a potential offensive-lineman pick at No. 3, to which, I will be very honest with you right now. If the New England Patriots decide to draft an offensive lineman at No. 3 overall in this year’s draft, I will never watch another Patriots game again in my life. You have my word.

Do the right thing, Patriots.

Follow Danny on instagram @ DannyPicard.

SPORTS TODAY

PATRIOTS

GIVE DUGGER ‘TRANSITION’ TAG, RELEASE JACKSON

As they get closer to the 2024 NFL Draft, the New England Patriots — who are expected to select a valuable offensive player with the No. 3 overall pick — placed the one-year transition tag on safety Kyle Dugger earlier this week.

Prior to that, the Patriots also released cornerback J.C. Jackson, who they had re-acquired last season in a trade with the Los Angeles Chargers.

Here’s the Patriots’ press release on Dugger’s transition tag, which implies that there’s still hope a longer contract

Tweet of the Week

can be agreed to:

FOXBOROUGH, Mass. – The New England Patriots announced that they are utilizing the transition tag designation to extend their rights to S Kyle Dugger today. The tag is a one-year tender offer for the average of the top 10 salaries at the safety position.

“Kyle is a talented player with a strong work ethic who has improved every year and been extremely productive since joining our team in 2020,” said Patriots Head Coach Jerod Mayo.

“We value players with high character and chose to use the transition designation to give both sides more time to try to reach a long-term agreement, which is our goal with Kyle.”

Dugger, 27, is a veteran of four NFL seasons with New England after joining the team as a second-round draft pick (37th overall) in the 2020 NFL Draft out of Lenoir-Rhyne. The 6-foot-1, 216-pounder has played in 61 regular season games with 52 starts and has accumulated 319 total tackles,

WHAT

2 1/2 sacks, 9 interceptions with two returned for touchdowns, 20 passes defensed, 2 forced fumbles and 2 fumble recoveries. In 2022, Dugger had three defensive touchdowns with two interceptions returned for touchdowns and one fumble returned for a touchdown. Last season, Dugger started in all 17 games and finished tied for second on the team with a career-high 107 total tackles. He also registered 1½ sacks, 2 interceptions, 7 passes defensed and 1 forced fumble.

FENWAY SPORTS GROUP ANNOUNCES EXPANDED ROLES FOR KENNEDY, HOGAN

Every time you turn around, it seems like Fenway Sports Group is making another major announcement. Their most recent announcements included joining the world of golf, and even reuniting with old friend Theo Epstein.

Now, FSG is announcing expanded roles for Red Sox President and CEO Sam Kennedy, as well as for Liverpool F.C. CEO Billy Hogan.

Here’s the full press release from Fenway Sports Group: BOSTON, MA – Fenway Sports Group (FSG), a global sports, marketing, media, entertainment, and real estate company, today announced expanded responsibilities for two of its longtime executives, appointing Sam Kennedy as Chief Executive Officer, FSG, and naming Billy Hogan Chief Executive Officer, FSG International. In these positions, Kennedy and Hogan will work closely with FSG Principal Owner John Henry, Chairman Tom Werner, and President Mike Gordon

to oversee management of the entire FSG enterprise and position the company for operational excellence that ensures the competitive success of its teams across MLB, the EPL, NHL, NASCAR, and the company’s latest investment in the PGA TOUR. Kennedy will continue to serve as President & CEO of the Boston Red Sox, and Hogan will continue to serve as CEO, Liverpool F.C.

The new FSG appointments were announced by Henry, Werner, and Gordon at FSG’s annual owners’ meeting in Bonita Springs, Florida where they discussed Kennedy and Hogan’s influence at FSG, stating the following:

“This moment in FSG’s expansion marks a fitting occasion to formalize our leadership structure, recognizing the ongoing contributions and responsibilities shouldered by Sam and Billy across our entire portfolio. We know our people are our greatest asset, and in Sam and Billy we have two of the most accomplished executives in the industry whose enduring contributions stand out even more as original hires by FSG over two decades ago. Among their

peers, they are universally respected for their leadership and have been integral to numerous championships in Boston and Liverpool. We are pleased to formalize roles they have performed and embodied for the past several years.”

FSG is a dynamic, global sports, entertainment, media, and real estate platform fueled by a workforce of over 7,000 employees worldwide. In addition to its wholly owned and operated teams that include the Boston Red Sox (MLB), Liverpool F.C. (EPL), the Pittsburgh Penguins (NHL), RFK Racing (NASCAR), and Boston Common Golf (TGL), FSG holds investments in The SpringHill Company, Hana Kuma, GOAL, Fenway Music Company, and PGA TOUR Enterprises, and maintains a lifetime strategic partnership with one of the world’s most accomplished generational athletes, LeBron James. For additional information on FSG, please visit www. fenwaysportsgroup.com.

South Boston Citizens’ Association

Thomas E. McGrath, President

“The Nation's Oldest Neighborhood Civic Organization”

248th Annual Evacuation Day Events

2024 Evacuation Day Committee

Clerk of Courts, John Powers, General Chairman

Governor Maura Healey, Honorary Chairperson

Congressman Stephen F. Lynch, Honorary Chairman

Mayor Michelle Wu, Honorary Chairperson

State Senator Nick Collins, Honorary Chairman

State Representative David Biele, Honorary Chairman

City Councilor Ed Flynn, Honorary Chairman

Former City Councilor Michael F. Flaherty, Honorary Chairman City Councilor Erin Murphy, Honorary Chairperson

District Attorney, Kevin Hayden, Honorary Chairman

Suffolk Register of Deeds Stephen Murphy, Honorary Chairman

March 2nd through March 17th

Jimmy Flaherty Kick-Off Breakfast

Saturday, March 2nd

State Representative, David Biele Honorary Chairman

Seapoint Restaurant -10:00 AM

Suggested Donation $15.00

21+Bowl-A-Rama

Sunday, March 10th

Cheryl Joyce, Andrea Flaherty, Rich Devoe, Pauline Bare and Joyce Higgins

Honorary Chairpersons

Sponsored by South Boston Bowl 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM

MUST BE 21+ TO ATTEND

Basketball Free-Throw Competition

Monday, March 4th

City Councilor Ed Flynn

Former Mayor Ray Flynn

Bernie O’Donnell, Kathy Davis, John Lydon

Honorary Chairpersons

Tynan Community School Gym 6:00 PM

The Swimming Competition

Tuesday, March 5th

City Councilor Erin Murphy

Honorary Chairperson

Boys and Girls Club Pool

Registration 6:00 PM, Meet 6:30 PM

Our Sponsors

Ice-O-Rama

Wednesday, March 6th

State Senator Nick Collins

State Rep. David Biele

City Councilor Ed Flynn

Honorary Chairmen

Murphy Rink, Day Boulevard - 6:00 PM

Boxing Tournament

Saturday, March 9th &16th

Sanctioned by USA Boxing

Sponsored by Peter Welch’s Gym

Noon - Doors open at 11:30 am

144th Annual Evacuation Day Banquet

Friday, March 15th

BCEC 2nd Floor Ballroom

New England Boiled Dinner

Entertainment by Curragh’s Fancy

Reception 5:30 PM-----Dinner 7:00 PM

FOR TICKETS CALL 857-204-5825

Tom & Eddie Butler

St. Patrick’s Senior Salute

Saturday, March 9th

Mayor Michelle Wu, Michael Flaherty & Thomas Butler Jr. Chairmen

Mary Collins, Kathy Flynn and Joyce Biele Honorary Chairwomen

Curley Community Center - 11am to 2pm

Athletic Competition

Condon School Gym

Thursday, March 14th 4 PM-6 PM

City Councilor Ed Flynn

Joe Curran and Barbara Caputo Kelly

Honorary Chairpersons

Boys and Girls ages 10 to 14

St. Patrick's Day Road Race

Sunday, March 17th

Proceeds Benefit

South Boston Boys & Girls Club PRE-REGISTRATION REQUIRED 617-516-5441

Race begins at 11:00 AM at the Club

Evacuation Day Memorial Mass

Friday, March 15th

Fr. Joe White

Margaret Lynch, Honorary Chairwoman

St. Augustine's Chapel - 9:00 AM

Memorial/Historical Exercises

Friday, March 15th

US Congressman Stephen Lynch

State Senator Nick Collins

Old Harbor & Telegraph Streets - 10:00 AM

Essay & Poster Competition Event

Wednesday, March 13th

Bernie O’Donnell, Past President SBCA

Robert Allison, S.B. Historical Society

US Congressman Stephen Lynch

State Senator Nick Collins

Marry Collins, David Biele and Ed Flynn

Honorary Chairpersons

The Broadway - 5 to 7:30pm

St. Patrick’s/Evacuation Day Parade

SUNDAY, MARCH 17TH - 1 PM

Gerald Wheeler - Chief Marshal

SB Allied War Veterans Council