South Boston Today March 14 2024

The enduring canard that Boston is a ‘racist city’ serves the agenda of some, but paradoxically, the local media that has made it a journalistic version of political fertilizer (aka manure). Manure’s real purpose is to enhance plant growth and replenish the soil with nutrients. In the case of the media, it seems to be quite the opposite. Rather than enhance progress, it diminishes it. Rather than replenish, it invalidates. The fertilizer, spread by the media, is done so to diminish important traditions and institutions and instigate and redirect the deployment of resources (i.e. money) on behalf of the new political establishment.

What is missing in their narrative is an acknowledgement and appreciation of the fact that funding in the billions, perhaps trillions, of dollars, over the several decades since President John F. Kennedy’s administration, has found its way

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It’s Not About Free Museum Passes; Isn’t It About Inclusion PARADE ROUTE

The celebration has been ongoing for a month. That’s right, in South Boston, the St. Patrick’s Day/Evacuation Day holiday season is more than just a one-day event – MUCH more. It kicks off around mid February with traditional events put on by the South Boston Allied War Veterans, The South Boston Citizens’ Association, The South Boston St. Patrick’s Day Parade Committee, other community groups and assisted by a legion of volunteers – So many volunteers and all of them, every last one of them, dedicated to the task of making

TSouthie’s biggest celebration go off perfectly.

The planning is intense, and the results are flawless as everything turns out perfectly with military style precision. This year everything seems to be on schedule and the events that have already taken place were a rousing success, bringing pleasure and entertainment to all who take part. From the dinners to the breakfasts, the sporting events, the talent contests, fundraisers, religious and patriotic ceremonies and parties, the town seems to be in a festive mood as has been the tradition for generations.

he annual St. Patrick’s Day Breakfast hosted by Sen. Nick Collins will take place at the Ironworkers Local 7 Union Hall in South Boston on the morning of Sunday, March 17th. Featured guests include U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren, Governor Maura Healey, Congressman Stephen Lynch, Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley, Senate President Karen Spilka, Auditor Diana Dizoglio and Boston Mayor Michelle Wu. They will be joined at the dais by Suffolk County District Attorney

This year, at least so far, no controversial issues have arisen to attempt to diminish the celebratory spirit and that’s a good thing. St. Patrick’s Day/ Evacuation Day is supposed to be a time to reflect on our cherished traditions, the neighborhood’s Irish culture and on the greatness and patriotism that is America. And of course, to party.

This Sunday, on March 17th itself, our community opens its doors to possibly a million visitors who will come to join in the celebration. The overwhelming number of those visitors will be made up of well-behaved

revelers just looking for a good time and they are welcome. Yes, there is always a tiny number of people who might get out of control and cause a problem. In crowds that large, it’s almost unavoidable. They of course will not be well received. But it’s nothing that our good friends, the members of law enforcement can’t handle. And yes, there will be a significant number of locals who will choose to be out of town on the day of the parade to avoid the crowds, the traffic, and the noise. Not everyone is a fan of so much commotion.

Kevin Hayden, Boston City Councilors Ed Flynn and Erin Murphy, State Representative David Biele and US Naval Commander Chance Smith of the USS Truxton (DDG 103).

“I am proud to be back where we belong, with our union brothers and sisters in labor at the Ironworkers Union Hall in South Boston,” said Sen. Collins, who will emcee the annual political roast for his fifth time.

This year the Breakfast will be broadcast to a wider

For those locals who will be staying in town, we wish you all a great day. Whether you celebrate, mingle and party with the visiting throngs in the streets, or intimately host family and friends in your homes with good food and drink, be safe and enjoy. And while at it, consider giving thanks and to show appreciation to all those wonderful volunteers who worked so hard to put it all together with the goal of providing so much entertainment and fun for their neighbors and of course to all the local businesses, through their financial contributions, have helped make it a success.

audience with NECN and NESN joining media partners BNN, WROL. The event will be live-streamed on NECN, BNN and WROL Radio beginning at 9:30 a.m. Live TV broadcast will begin at 10 a.m.

Live TV: NECN and NESN; BNN (Comcast 9, 23 and 1072; Astound 15; Fios 2161 and 2160)

Live Radio Broadcast – WROL Irish Radio (100.3 FM, 950 AM)

Livestream – NECN and Boston Neighborhood News Network<http://www.bnnmedia.org/

TInformation Center The Comments On The State Of The Union Speech

his week, I feel the need to comment on last week’s State of The Union speech by Joe Biden. I didn’t watch it ‘live’. I had things to do in that time slot and watching what I was sure would be a cringe worthy speech filled with fantasy, false claims, gaffs, and nonsense was definitely not at the top of my to do list. But I heard the reaction later that night from friends who watched it and comments on TV. The next day was filled with clips and segments of his words all over TV, radio and on social media. Yet, though I personally dislike the man and view him as not just probably, but definitely the worst president in our nations’ history, if he made a good speech – a truthful speech, an informative speech an instructive speech, I would feel obligated to give the man credit for finally doing something right. And though there was not much hope that it would be any of those just-mentioned things, It was worse than even I expected.

What does it say about the leadership of this country, when the person holding the title of President of the United States gets up to the podium and screams at everyone? Biden’s speech has been described by even some Democrat political types as being probably the meanest, darkest, angriest and most divisive speech ever given by any president. But beyond that, it was probably the most blatantly dishonest and partisan speech ever given at a State of the Union.

Now granted, most Americans, no matter if you support the guy or not, know that he didn’t write it himself, because he’s just not capable of doing so or even proofing it after someone else wrote it for him. Let’s be honest, he’s just not. And that’s not his fault. He’s in serious cognitive decline and it’s nothing to make fun of, it’s sad to watch. But the anger and hatred he harbors and always has towards huge

segment of the American population is real and has been there throughout his long political career. It could not have been more evident.

Now of course, there are some, the diehard Biden supporters, who will come out, and did come out, and say the speech was excellent and masterfully given. That’s a bunch of BS and they know it. And the most embarrassing thing for those people about making ridiculous claims like that is that everyone knows it is. And their hatred and loathing of Donald Trump played as big a role, if not a bigger role, in making such foolish statements.

No matter what the Biden Administration claims, the nation is not doing better now than it was 4 years ago. It’s not even close. The reason such claims aren’t fooling Americans is because the public goes grocery shopping and is in shock at what it now costs to feed their families. They are also shocked at what it costs to purchase other necessities, to fill their gas tanks, heat their homes, pay their bills. These are things that average Americans are forced to deal with each and every day and no amount of lies to the contrary can fool them.

Americans are also not blind to the fact that the administration is deliberately flooding the country with unvetted illegal migrants, many of whom are on the terrorist watch list and have gang affiliations. Those that can’t get to our country on their own are being picked up in their own countries and flown here at taxpayer expense – hundreds of thousands of them. Once they arrive, they are being handed free money to the tune of thousands of dollars in cash and credit cards, shelter, health care and an array of other free perks. This situation can no longer be denied, because Americans are seeing it firsthand in their cities along with the accompanying increase in crime. They know it’s happening, so again, all

the lies to the contrary by a dishonest administration is fooling no one except for the hopelessly gullible and naïve. What’s obvious to virtually every American citizen now is that the federal government no longer considers them a priority. The effort to put the needs of the people illegally being brought into our country far and above the American people is clear and out in the open. And again, no amount of lie-filled speeches by the leftist occupying the White House, written for him by the corrupt anti-Americans who surround him and are actually calling the shots, is fooling anyone capable of

thinking for themselves.

And finally, what does it say when the guy holding the title of President shows little if any sympathy for Laken Riley, the innocent young American girl brutally and savagely murdered by an illegal migrant, but instead, apologizes not to Laken Riley’s family for allowing, by his policies, the alleged murderer into the country, but does apologize for referring to the murderer as ‘illegal’ rather than ‘undocumented’?

The American people, who want to put an end to this madness that has overtaken our great country, now know what they must do on November 5th, 2024.

John

Marijuana Pardons

Gov. Maura Healey’s looking to answer President Joe Biden’s call today — his call to action from a couple of years ago, when he urged governors to follow up on his move granting pardons for federal marijuana possession convictions. Healey is set to announce her own large-scale pardon covering state-level cannabis possession convictions.

The president raised the issue just last week in his State Of The Union speech, referring to the expungement of “thousands of convictions for the mere possession” of marijuana. “No one should be jailed for simply using or have it on their record,” Biden said on Capitol Hill.

On Beacon Hill this morning, Healey isn’t just looking to follow in Biden’s footsteps — she’s also looking to build out her own record on executive clemency, which is already well ahead of the curve, at least for recent history.

Last year, the Arlington Democrat broke a 26-year mold by recommending a batch of pardons during her first year in office, something not done since Gov. Paul Cellucci in 1997.

Clemency is a tool that governors once dispensed with frequency, like Gov. Mike Dukakis, who in his first year in office (1975) recommended 119 pardons and 16 commutations. Gov. Bill Weld recommended a single pardon in1991, his first year, and Cellucci had

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.

four pardons and a commutation in 1997.Healey’s already up to 13, all from her first year, and all of which won overwhelming approval from the elected Governor’s Council.

If a baker’s dozen seemed like a lot, just wait for the first official estimate of how many convictions will fall under the proposed “blanket pardon” for cannabis possession. Thousands? Tens or hundreds of thousands? At least one member of the Governor’s Council, which has the final say over any pardon actions, said Tuesday that he still had “a lot of questions” about “unknown ramifications” of Healey’s move, some related to cases where simple possession was just one charge out of many. That was Councilor Joe Ferreira, and maybe he’ll get some answers out of this morning’s press conference.

Division on display at tipped wage ballot question hearing

Tuesday’s legislative hearing about the tipped wage ballot question featured two experts and panels of both supporters and opponents of the proposal. Opponents said raising tipped workers’ wages to the $15 statewide minimum would force employers to raise prices and, as a whole, lower worker pay because tipped workers currently make more than the average employee. Supporters said requiring minimum wage with tips on top can combat harassment workers face when relying on tips to make

a living and can bring about unity among staff if pooling tips. Before the hearing even started, One Fair Wage’s 9 a.m. press conference on the State House steps was interrupted by the Committee to Protect Tips, which had its own press conference immediately afterward.

Wu on Boston’s White Stadium renovation

Boston is waiting on a judge to make the decision about whether the city can renovate White Stadium to host Boston’s professional women’s soccer team. 20 neighbors and the Emerald Necklace Conservancy have sued the city to halt the project because they say it would illegally transfer public lands to a private party, and the ruling to the conservancy’s injunction is coming on March 22. Mayor Michelle Wu said Tuesday on GBH that the stadium would be open for community use more than 90 percent of the time post-renovation, and that without the $30M contribution from Boston Unity Soccer Partners, the city wouldn’t be able to afford a renovation.

State House News Service

Healey appeals federal denial of disaster relief

Gov. Healey sent the president a letter on Monday via a FEMA regional administrator asking the Biden administration to reconsider its initial rejection of the state’s request for a major disaster declaration as a result of last Sep -

tember’s major flooding. Healey outlined the millions of dollars in damage to homes, businesses and property as a result of “devastating” storms, pointing to the recovery process many communities are still facing now. — Boston Herald

A massive decline in primary care access

Mass. is facing an “exodus” of primary care physicians — a group of doctors who earn lower salaries, longer hours and higher stress levels than most specialty physicians. More PCPs are quitting private practice and fewer PCPs are coming into the industry than ever before, pointing to research showing that the amount of patients who could get in to see their pre-established PCP when needed hit a new statewide low in 2023.

Boston Globe

Healey creates Labor Advisory Council

Gov. Healey signed an executive order Tuesday to create a Labor Advisory Council to advise her on organized labor matters, which will include at least 15 members from a number of different public and private sectors. The governor named former VP of Massachusetts AFL-CIO Roger Brunelle, who has spent decades in the organized labor field, as her labor advisor. Healey made the announcement at MGM Springfield during the Massachusetts Building Trades Union’s Annual Convention.

U.S. Rep. Lynch Secures

$1.5M for Port of Boston and Camp Harbor View

U.S. Representative Stephen F. Lynch (MA-08) announced $1million in

federal funding for the repair of the North Jetty in the Port of Boston, in addition to $500K for improvements to Camp Harborview located on the Boston Harbor Islands.

“We must remain proactive to ensure our port infrastructure is maintained and protected from sea-level rise, climate change, and flooding,” said Rep. Lynch. “This critical funding will be used to help redesign the North Jetty Berth to make the Port of Boston more efficient, resilient, and better able to accommodate increased cargo demands. Additionally, Camp Harbor View on the Boston Harbor Islands offers

REP. BIELE co-HOSTS ABCD Community Development’s

LEGISLATIVE BRIEFING

Recently, State Representative David Biele co-hosted Action for Boston Community Development’s annual legislative briefing for state and local elected officials. Each year, Action for Boston Community Development (ABCD) serves more than 100,000 low-income individuals and families throughout the City of Boston and the Mystic Valley, with

a majority living at or below the federal poverty level.

Established in 1962, ABCD was federally designated as the anti-poverty community action agency for Boston to provide services, assistance, and other activities to provide low-income residents transition from poverty to stability and success. In 2015, ABCD’s designated service area was extended beyond Boston to include Everett, Malden and Medford.

In terms of programming, ABCD provides supportive services to individuals and families across 17 service network locations in neighborhoods throughout Greater Boston—including one location in South Boston. Specific programs and services provided by ABCD include:

year-round, affordable youth development programs for over 1,000 Boston teens and their families. This funding will be used to help rehabilitate and improve handicap access to the site and better allow for our youth to engage in these safe, educational programs that inspire creativity and build community.

“I am proud that we have been successful in obtaining this funding to advance these important projects, and I am grateful for my partners in the U.S. Senate, Senators Elizabeth Warren and Ed Markey, for their relentless support to ensure this funding was included in the final

• Free tax assistance for low-income individuals and families;

• Early childhood education and care through Head Start as well as child-care referral and voucher programs;

• Adult Education and Career De-

bill. I also thank Mayor Michelle Wu, Senator Nick Collins, Rep. David Biele, and City Councilors Ed Flynn, Erin Murphy, and Gigi Coletta for their partnership and dedication to Boston.”

The 2024 Consolidated Appropriations Act funds 12 community projects in the 8th Congressional District, providing nearly $12.2 million that will help make residents safer, strengthen our communities, create good jobs, and confront the climate crisis. The appropriations bill has been passed by both the U.S. House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate and was signed into law by President Biden. When enacted, the State of Massachusetts will receive an estimated amount of $175 million in funding from the bill that will support 159 community projects across the Commonwealth. To receive Community Project Funding, an entity must submit a detailed application and demonstrate that its project enjoys strong local support.

velopment, including ESOL courses, associate degree programs, certificate programs, and job assistance;

• Energy assistance of low-income individuals and families through the LIHEAP fuel assistance program to

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MSBCA Evacuation Day Banquet Awardees Honored This Friday Night

ark O’Leary (Shamrock Award) Tomas MacCormaic (Outstanding Citizen Award) and Frank Baker (Public Service Award) to be honored at the 144th Annual Evacuation Day Banquet this Friday at Convention Center. South Boston Citizens’ Association President Tom McGrath and the Executive Board have announced the Association’s 2024 recipients of the James M. “Jimmy” Kelly/Margaret “Peggy” Flaherty Shamrock Award for Community Service.

The 2024 Shamrock Award will be presented to Mark O’Leary for his selfless efforts in aiding those in need, and pitching in at the drop of a hat, for any benefit or worthy cause in and around the town. This award will be presented at the 144th Annual Evacuation Day Banquet to be held on March 15, 2024, at the South Boston Convention Center.

Mark O’Leary

Mark O’Leary was born and raised in South Boston where he attended Gate of Heaven Grammar school and then went onto Catholic Memorial where he graduated in 1971.He is a former member of Local 17 Sheet metal Workers, Retired from the City of Boston Public Works Street Lighting Division as an Inspector. He also was the Past president of Local 445 and Past president of AFSCME Local 804 City of Boston Public Works.

Mark is the current president of the South Boston Chippewa Athletic Club since 2016 where he and his members have organized many outstanding “Toys for Tots” drives every Christmas season for children who are less fortunate than others.

In 2018, Mark started the O’Leary Family Foundation, a charity formed with a mission statement as follows

“Our Mission is to give what is necessary to improve the quality of life for those less fortunate”. The foundation continues to give back to the community that his family loves so well. The Foundation has helped hundreds of families in need or less fortunate. Two people that helped Mark and inspired him were the late Joe “Dodo” Nee and Butchie Tobias, two great individuals who did so much for others in this community. He also credits a third person - his good friend Kevin Turner.

As you can see, from his earliest age, Mark was taught the importance of volunteering and giving back to the community. “I have seen Mark and his Family Foundation do great things for others in the Town, it is an honor for the Citizens’ Association to present him with the Jimmy Kell/Peggy Flaherty Shamrock Award for Community Service.” Stated President Tommy McGrath. Mark is the proud father of 4 children, Mark, Eamon, Mary Kate and Kevin. He is also the grandfather of 7, 5 boys and 2 girls.

Tomas MacCormaic

The South Boston Citizens’ Association is also honored to announce that Tomas MacCormiac of the Cape Cod Irish Village will be the recipient of the Joe Moakley Award at the 142nd Annual Evacuation Day Banquet, March 15th at the South Boston Convention Center.

history teacher who said, ‘All I can do is light the fire. You have to keep it burning yourself.’ That’s what I’m trying to do here.”

One of Tom’s more passionate historical events that was shared at the Old Village was in the spring of 2016, it was the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising, one of Ireland’s most significant protests against British rule, when rebels issued the Irish Proclamation of Independence and declared the Republic’s “resolve to pursue the happiness and prosperity of the whole nation. Tom is no stranger to the South Boston Community. He has been involved with many South Boston organizations over the years and has made lifelong friendships with many people. From the endless list of organizations throughout the state, he has supported with donations, countless fundraisers, clothing, food & toy drives, all benefitting schools, sports programs and first responders and others we may never know about.

Tomas MacCormiac has never forgotten where he comes from and endeavors quietly to help those around him in need or trouble, from his customers, staff and to outright strangers. Charity and generosity are a family trait. It is something that has been instilled in him since birth.

Tomas MacCormaic hails from Co Antrim Ireland. In 1998 he emigrated to the USA with his wife Milissa who is from Cape Cod. They have four children and since 2014 he has been the owner of the Cape Cod Irish Village. In 2022 himself and Jack Hynes partnered together to buy the Convention Center in Hyannis, Transforming into the new Irish Village at the Emerald Resort.

He is extremely passionate about his Irish culture and is well known for his desire to share his knowledge of its history and language with others. A self-taught historian, MacCormaic also uses the village as a platform to tell the story of Ireland.” “It’s a proud history and heritage,” he said. “I had a brilliant

Tommy has a special place in his heart for those considered special needs and loves having groups such as the South Boston Special Kids and Young Adults come to the hotel where he and his staff and customers make their stays a trip to remember. “His dedication to giving back to his community and others is why he is a perfect recipient of the Joe Moakley Outstanding Citizen Award”, Stated Tom McGrath President of the South Boston Citizens’ Association.

Amongst many achievements he considers his greatest to be the first black belt in Kama Sutra in Ireland. Tom has dedicated his life to giving back. His kindness, generosity, and will to have a good time show no signs of slowing down.

Frank Baker

Former Boston City Councilor Frank Baker will be receiving the John W, McCormack award for public service. He was always involved in politics at an early age working for many candidates through his young adult life.

He first decided to run for the Boston City Council after Mayor Tom Menino closed down the City Hall print shop, where Baker had worked for 25 years, many of those as a union steward. Putting his name on the ballot was a natural next step for him. As they say” the rest was

Councilor Flynn Hearing On Boston Police Crime Laboratory

At this week’s Council Meeting, Councilor Flynn will call for a hearing order to discuss resources for the Boston Police Crime Laboratory. An annual report by the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security (EOPSS) has found that the

Boston Police Crime Laboratory has been lagging behind in its handling of sexual assault kits testing for three years in a row.

The Boston Police Crime Lab is a critical arm of the Boston Police Department that focuses on processing, examining, and analyzing evidence - such as sexual assault kits - that are indispensable to investigating and solving crimes. In 2018, the State Legislature has mandated that sexual assault kits be tested within 30 days in order to swiftly process any evidence that will bring justice to sexual assault

survivors. However, the EOPSS has found that the testing of these kits has lagged at the Boston Police Crime Lab each year since 2021 due to staffing shortages, with the time lag in 2023 being the most concerning - half of the kits (93 out of 186 sexual assault kits) did not manage to get tested within 30 days. In comparison to the State Police Crime Lab, which tested 96% of the 714 tests it received in 2023, these statistics require immediate attention.

assault kits and evidence from our sexual assault survivors are processed in a timely manner, and we need to examine and address the underlying causes of staffing shortages at the Boston Police that have resulted in this delay,” said Councilor Flynn. “We have to look into what the current barriers are to filling these positions, and the resources we will need to get crime lab staff to perform their work more easily and efficiently.”

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

Councilor Flynn Supports “An Act to Advance Health Equity”

At the Council Meeting this week, Councilor Flynn will file a resolution in partnership with Councilors Brian Worrell and John Fitzgerald in support of H.1250/S.799, “An act to Advance Health Equity”. Sponsored by Representative Bud Williams, Representative Judith Garcia, Senator Pavel Payano, and Senator Liz Miranda, the proposed state legislation seeks to advance health equity through standardizing health equity data, increasing access to care, and prioritizing equity in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

Boston’s communities of color, particularly Black and Latinx residents, have historically experienced health inequities that have led to diminished health outcomes and life expectancy. These inequities have been laid bare during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the proposed bill aims to address these inequities by creating a cabinet-level Executive Office of Equity that will require the use of standardized health equity metrics across provider and payer organizations; expanding access to MassHealth regardless of immigration status; addressing the cost

“I am concerned about this delay. It is very important that the sexual burdens of medication for conditions that disproportionately impact communities of color and low income communities; requiring providers to meet or exceed national standards in providing culturally and linguistically appropriate care; and more.

tizing healthcare equity and ensuring that all residents regardless of race and socioeconomic status live healthy lives.”

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

Renovated Dorchester Heights Honors Historic Day

The National Parks of Boston and South Boston Citizens’ Association will host the annual Evacuation Day Commemoration on Friday, March 15 at 10 a.m. The event is free and open to the public.

While the ceremony is traditionally held on the grounds of the Dorchester Heights Monument, due to current restoration work, the program will take place at the Edgerley Family South Boston Boys & Girls Club at 230 West Sixth Street in South Boston. Confirmed speakers include Congressman Stephen F. Lynch, Boston Mayor Michelle Wu, National Parks of Boston Superintendent Michael Creasey, and state and city elected officials.

The Excel High School JROTC Color Guard will lead a procession to the western edge of Thomas Park for a wreath laying following the speaking program. The commemoration will feature a ceremonial presentation of arms by the Lexington Minutemen and Henry Knox Color Guard. The Boston University Band will provide music.

Superintendent Creasey will share a brief overview of the current restoration project. The National Parks of Boston began the more than $30 million restoration of Dorchester Heights Monument on September 15. Funded by the Great American Outdoors Act (GAOA), rehabilitation work will be

“It is critical that we work to address inequities in accessing healthcare, medication access, and the underlying socioeconomic factors that lead to disparities in health outcomes for our communities of color,” said Councilor Flynn. “The passage of this bill will be a big step forward for our state in prioricomplete by March 17, 2026, Evacuation Day, during the nation’s 250th birthday year. The Monument and its surrounding area remain closed to the public during the restoration.

The GAOA funds are being used to restore the iconic 1902 Dorchester Heights Monument tower and surrounding area known as Thomas Park. The rehabilitation work includes structural upgrades, masonry restoration, and improvement of the monument’s foundation, superstructure, exterior enclosure, roof, interior stairs, HVAC, plumbing, and electrical systems. The grounds, lighting, and signage will be vastly improved for visitors’ experience.

In early March 1776, General George Washington ordered the construction of fortifications at Dorchester Heights. Two weeks later, these actions led to the evacuation of British forces from Boston. For over a century, Bostonians in the South Boston community have commemorated March 17 as “Evacuation Day” at Dorchester Heights.

More information on the Dorchester Heights Monument restoration and photos are available online.

Guy The Wine Some Wines For The “Barbie”

As that sun starts to feel warmer, our thoughts turn increasingly to the barbeque grill out back. Few people do BBQ better than the Australians; as well, they have some pretty good wines for whatever’s the BBQ, too. Consider the following the next time you fire her up……

Leeuwin Estate Shiraz Siblings, Margaret River, Western Australia, ($17.99). Bright redcurrants, dark cherries and boysenberries prominently feature with black cardamom, star anise, cinnamon quill and violets in the background. This wine has a distinctive palate with bright acidity; plump cherries and blackcurrants dominate. Subtle notes of chocolate, coffee and pepper notes lead to a structural finish

SBCA continued from page 6

with powdery tannins. All of the fruit was fermented in open fermenters, with 15% being whole bunches to extend the fermentation time. As you might guess,this wine is a natural for any red meat on the grill, but also delicious with veal and duck.

Ashbrook Estate Chardonnay, Margaret River, Australia, ($25.99) is a subtle blend of hazelnut and lemon on the nose, with hints of wood smoke and stone fruit. Beautifully textured palate, elegant and harmonious with long lemon finish. Overt vanilla aromas tend to come with barrel fermentation more than via the more gentle processes involved in barrel maturation, and from new wood rather than used oak. Older barrels are more about gentle oxidation rather than transfer of vanillins and similar aroma compounds. This wine pairs well with all types of shellfish, as well as Asian fusion cuisine.

Margaret River Haley And Lex Sauvignon Blanc, 2019, ($18.99). The 2018 Halley and Lex Sauvignon Blanc exudes aromas of white pear, gooseberries and cut grass. You’ll notice a very pronounced and crisp entry of stone fruit and lemon zest with a refreshing natural acidity to balance the subtle creamy tones. The finish is clean and refreshing, with nuances of jasmine and apricots. While this one is great with seafood and salads, you’ll find that it’s also nice to have with a wide variety of cheese and fresh fruit.

Another wine from Ashbrook that’s unusual and delicious is their Ashbrook 2021 Semillon, Margaret River, Australia, ($19.99). Wine Enthusiast

history”. Frank Baker was elected to the Boston City Council on November 8, 2011. His district included most of Dorchester and then a portion of South Boston and the South End.

Frank Baker is proud to be a lifelong resident of Dorchester. He grew up in the Saint Margaret’s Parish of Dorchester and currently owns a home in Savin Hill with his wife, Today Elaine. He is the twelfth child of John and Eileen Baker’s thirteen children and a father of 11-year-old twins, Ben and Maxine.

Frank graduated from Don Bosco Technical High School in 1986 where he studied the printing trade. He worked for the City of Boston Printing Department from 1987 until 2010. Baker is a member of the CWA/Boston Typographical Union, Local 13 and served as a Shop Steward from 2000 until 2010. Baker has been actively involved in politics

gave it 90 points, saying,”This palegold Semillon offers much of the pithy, waxy lemon, dried herb and damp straw notes typical to the variety and region. The palate is less generous on the fruit front with the acidity feeling a bit forced, but the finish has a lovely slippery texture and some length. This wine could shine with the right food, like a herb-laced chèvre.”.

Karrawatta Adelaide HillsAnth’s Garden Chardonnay, ($55.99) Handcrafted Chardonnay from our vineyard, planted at high altitude above Meadows in the Adelaide Hills. Hand-picked and gently whole-bunch pressed to retain natural flavor and complexity. The wine was left on lees for partial Malo-lactic fermentation and aged in French oak for seven months. Citrus and stone fruit characters combine with struck flint, toasty complexity and a highly textured, beautifully soft mouth-feel.

I wanted to mention this wine last, but hardly least. The 2019 Walsh & Sons Roi Cabernet Sauvignon, Margaret River, Western Australia, ($39.99), is huge. It instantly reminded me of some of the better (and much more expensive) Cabernets from

his entire adult life and is a dedicated member of the Dorchester community. Frank always looked forward to bringing his passion for his community and a strong independent voice to City Hall during his tenor as a Councilor. His priorities included Education, Public Safety, Substance Abuse Services, Housing and Economic Development.

Baker’s career highlights included serving as Chair of the City Council’s Jobs, Wages, and Workforce Development Committee and the Special Committee on Charter Reform. He was also Vice Chair of the Planning, Development and Transportation Committee. Furthermore, he was a member of the Committees on Census and Redistricting, City Neighborhood Services and Veterans Affairs, Government Operations, Homelessness, Mental Health and Recovery, Housing and Community Development, and Ways and Means. “It’s an honor for the Association to recognize Frank Baker for the Mc-

Paulliac in Bordeaux. Here are just some of the reviews: 96 points James Suckling: “Such attractive aromas of fresh blue and dark berries here, as well as attractive notes of earth, leaves and dried flowers. The palate has such effortlessly deep-set flavors with dark berries, plums and spiced chocolate. Pristine tannins hold so long. This is a stunning cabernet. Drink over the next decade.” (03/2020) 95 points Wine Enthusiast: “ Small-batch Margaret River producers Ryan Walsh and Freya Hohnen have really upped their red game in recent years. From the family’s Osmington vineyard, Roi celebrates all that makes Margs famous for Cabernet. Give it time to open but once it does, it offers boundless flavor, from plum and raspberry fruit to very dark chocolate, tobacco leaf, beetroot, iodine and potpourri. There’s a vibrancy to the palate that’s rarely found in powerful Aussie Cabs. It offers a lovely juxtaposition of silky-fresh fruit and powdery, chiseled tannins, with savory herbs flowing to the finish. Drink now with protein or ideally after a few more years, up until 2041. “ (12/2021) 95 points James Halliday: “Big, heavy glass bottle. A new label gives integrity to the wine inside. The nose is completely different from every other cabernet on the bench – stemmy, crunchy and yet ripe, giving a Rhône-esque bacon fat vibe. It’s a brooding rendition of Margaret River cabernet on the palate. Savory tannins encase sweet purple fruit, all in all it tends to tip-toe across the tongue, rather than plod.

Cormack Award for his commitment, dedication, professionalism, passion and fairness he brought to the Boston City Council, He will be missed!” Said President Tom McGrath.

This award along with the Shamrock and Moakley awards will be presented at the Association’s 144th Annual Evacuation Day Banquet, to be held this Friday evening, March 15th, at the Boston Convention & Exhibition Center, with a 5:30PM Cocktail hour and a Corned Beef Dinner served at 7:00PM. A host of special invited Dignitaries are expected to attend this year’s banquet. Curragh’s Fancy will provide the entertainment. McGrath cautioned that tickets are being purchased at a good pace, with valued community leaders receiving awards.

We urge those that are planning to attend to act fast. For information on tickets call Tom McGrath at 857-204-5825.

May

May history remind us all Of Ireland's faith and pride

May God bless all with happiness

May love and faith abide.

Legend of the Celtic Cross

Standing stones have long been the main points of solar cults throughout Europe before the advent of Celtic Christianity. Their shape meant to suggest that they were meant to represent trees which were held in great esteem by the early Celts.

The Christianization of the stones by carving crosses on them, a custom said to be introduced by St. Patrick was the start of the Christian presence in Ireland.

It has been said that the most important achievement in the history of Irish sculpture is the Celtic High Cross. These crosses can be identified by a large stone circle intersecting the arms and the upright shaft. From the early days of Irish Christianity, crosses had been set in slabs as symbols of the faith and put up in monastic settlements.

The predecessors of the Irish crosses were possibly the stone crosses erected in North Umbria in the late 7th Century. Figured sculpture became a major element of the crosses.

In the early pieces, hunting scenes, with a moral message appeared only on the substantial bases as at Ahenny. In the style of transitional, shafts became covered with relief panels as in the South Cross, Clonmacnois. The use of human figures on the Irish crosses may have been influenced by English ivories. The Columban monastery of Kells, Co Meath, has a transitional cross that being of St. Patrick and St. Columba early 9th century which indeed carries a number of Biblical scenes. The area around Kells appears to have been vital in the development of later high crosses in eastern and northern Ireland.

The group of central figures of scriptural high crosses has a set religious subject which is based on the themes of Gog’s grace to man’s and the links between events in the Old and New Testaments. There, ideas relate to the Reformist Celi D movement, with it’s new great interest in the Scriptures. There crosses look

forward to the Irish Romanesque Art Movement and the Celtic culture in general. The best example is the Cross of Muiredach and the West Cross of the Scriptures of Monasterboice in Co Louth. The figures are in this instance cut in sandstone. Figured panels are on the base of the shaft and ornamental panels the narrow face. There is generally a Crucifix on one side with the New Testament scenes in panels beneath; on the

other face are the Last Judgment and Old Testament scenes.

The terrible Viking attacks appeared to have stopped the carving of high crosses in the South of Ireland, and later some crosses were erected in the North.

This great development of the Irish Cross indicates the deep and solid Christian faith which the Irish people had and continue to have to the present day.

Slainte! ´

Happy St. Patrick’s Day to our friends and neighbors, from the MCCA.

GLORIA LARSON INTERIM EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Origin of the Irish Flag

The earliest record of the Irish flag was in 1848, when some French women who were sympathetic to the Irish cause presented it as a gift to Thomas Francis Meagher, the Irish nationalist leader of the Young Irelanders.

Ireland was at this time experiencing a deep divide between the Catholics and the Protestants, and suffering hugely from the effects of the “Great Famine”, which killed a million Irish people and caused another million to emigrate.

The colors on the flag were meant to symbolize the longed-for union between the Roman Catholics, represented by the green color, and the Protestants, represented by orange. Meaghar said:

The Irish flag did not become regarded as the national flag until 1916 during the Easter Rising, when teacher, army officer and politician Gearóid O’Sullivan raised it above Dublin’s General Post Office. Since then, it has been used as the national flag of Ireland by nationalists on both sides of the border, and it was later given constitutional status under the 1937 Constitution of Ireland.

The Symbolism of the Famous Green, White & Orange Irish flag

Green – The color green has been associated with Ireland since hundreds of years before the Irish tricolor came around. In the 1640s the green harp flag was used by the Irish Catholic Confederation, and green ribbons have been worn on St Patrick’s Day since at least the 1680s.

This suggests that green was already a national color of Ireland, hence why the green stripe is meant to represent the Roman Catholics of Ireland.

Orange – The other half of the population that needed uniting at this time was the minority Protestants. They were supporters of William of Orange, whose title came from the Principality of Orange, hence why they were represented by the color orange.

Orange was included in the flag in an attempt to make Irish Protestants feel included in the Irish independence movement.

White – The third color of the flag is white, which has historically been associated with peace, from the white flags of surrender to the international symbol of peace, the white dove. That is why the white section in the middle of the tricolor was used, to signify a lasting peace and hope for union between Protestants and Catholics in Ireland.

History of the Irish Flag

When the Irish flag was first flown by Thomas Francis Meagher on March 7, 1848, during that year’s Young Irelander Rebellion in Waterford City at the Wolfe Tone Confederate Club, it flew for eight days before it was taken down by the British.

In April of 1848, inspired by the revolutions across Europe, a contingent of Young Irelanders (including Meaghar) traveled to France. Their aim was to congratulate the rebels on overthrowing King Louis Philippe I, and whilst there, Meagher was presented with an Irish flag which had been woven out of French silk.

When they returned back to Ireland, Maeghar presented the tricolor to the Irish people and explained the symbolism of the three color on the flag.

Whilst many embraced tricolor as a symbol for Ireland, it didn’t become the primary flag for the country until 1916. The previous one was green with a harp in the center, the harp being Ireland’s national symbol, and was known to have been used as early as 1642.

During the Easter Rising of 1916, both of these Irish flags were flown above the GPO, the headquarters of the rebels, and this was when the tricolor became more widely accepted.

After the Rising, during the Irish War of Independence between 1919 and 1921, the new Irish flag was adopted by the IRA. It was also used as a symbol of the Irish Free State between 1922 and 1937.

When the Irish constitution came into law later in 1937, the tricolor was confirmed as the official flag of Ireland by Article 7, which states: “The national flag of Ireland is the tricolor of green, white and orange.”

From then until now, the Irish flag is seen as a symbol of Irish pride, and it remains to be an important reminder of the peace that has been achieved and the progress that is still to be made.

Flying the Irish Flag

In 2016, 100 years since the Easter rising, as a mark of remembrance, all schools in Ireland received an Irish flag. Members of Ireland’s defense forces travelled around primary schools to educate the students on the flag’s story, its meaning, and proper care.

Examples of the proper kind of care for the Irish flag include:

• the flag must always be flown above any others displayed on the staff

• it must never be displayed in poor condition

• the flag must not be allowed to touch the ground or become entangled with trees.

• and it must always fly with the green segment closest to the flagstaff

The Origin of Leprechauns

Every year on March 17th, St. Patrick’s Day is celebrated in Ireland and all across the globe. It’s the time for shamrocks, costumes, parades and of course, leprechauns. These wee fellas are a big part of this special holiday and an important part of Irish history and culture. But what makes them so popular, where did they come from, and why are people still so infatuated with them today? Here’s everything you need to know about history of leprechauns and why these tiny guys have made such a big impact.

The leprechaun story has long been a beloved aspect of Irish lore. They are believed to be a part of another piece of famous folklore, as they are traditionally known to be members of the fairy family. Tales of these small creatures first emerged in the 8th-century, when legends about tiny water-dwellers began circulating among the Celts.

Their name is thought to come from the word “luchorpán,” meaning small body- no surprise there as they are said to be only 2-3 feet tall. Where do these little folk live? In order to hide from humans, they are known to dwell in tiny underground caves or hollow tree trunks.

They are famous for being the cobblers of the fairy world and their name is also associated with the old term “’leath bhrogan,” meaning shoemaker. This profession is what earns them their iconic pots of gold.

The History of Leprechauns in Ireland

While we think of these creatures as imaginary, belief in them and other closely-related fairies was actually widespread throughout Ireland. This is one of the reasons that this icon is now so ingrained into Irish culture, even today.

Over the years, the history of leprechauns has become associated with everything green and they are now often depicted as old men dressed in a hat and suit of this color, wearing buckled shoes or smoking a pipe. However, this was not always the case. In fact, you may be surprised to know that they were originally depicted as wearing red and were thought of as being dressed in this color for many years.

Over time, they have evolved into the green-wearing guys we have come to know and love today. Many theorize that this is due to the general popularity of the color green throughout Ireland. This is, in part, because of its prominence on the Irish flag, as well as the widely-used name, the Emerald Isle. Whatever the reason, green has become synonymous with leprechauns and St. Patrick’s Day alike.

Legend also says that there are no female leprechauns, and their seemingly impossible origins only add to their magical and mysterious qualities.

The Traditions and Beliefs Surrounding Leprechauns

Pot of Gold

One key component of the leprechaun story is their famous pot of gold. They are known to possess and hoard their prized pots and traditionally hide this treasure at the end of a rainbow. This means that humans need to catch them in order to find this fortune, as it is impossible to actually locate the end of this natural phenomenon.

Lucky Symbols

The leprechaun story says capturing these small creatures will secure a wee bit of luck in addition to three wishes. With this in mind, they have become associated with the “luck of the Irish,” which is one of the reasons they remain so popular today.

Tiny Tricksters

Many looking for fortune also seek to gain their gold, but beware- these teeny men are also known to be tricksters. They are said to deceive humans and serve as a warning against greed. Some even believe that they hide their gold simply in order to lure in the unsuspecting and when granting their captors three wishes, they often instead lead them astray.

Sights and Sounds

Keep your ears open- they can often be heard tapping their tiny cobbler hammer in the distance, which signals listeners that they are near. They can also be heard dancing away to traditional Irish music and are even known to play instruments while doing a little jig.

Whether you head to Limerick on the lookout for these little fellas or visit the National Leprechaun Museum in Dublin to see this legend come to life, there are many amazing things to do to celebrate these creatures today.

SOUTHIE IS MY HOME TOWN

I WAS BORN DOWN ON A STREET, RAISED UP ON B STREET

SOUTHIE IS MY HOME TOWN. THERE’S SOMETHING ABOUT IT

PERMIT ME TO SHOUT IT, WE’RE THE TOPS FROM MILES AROUND

WE HAVE DOCTORS & TRAPPERS, PREACHERS & FLAPPERS

MEN FROM THE OLD COUNTY DOWN

SAY THEY’LL TAKE YOU & BREAK YOU BUT NEVER FORSAKE YOU

SOUTHIE IS MY HOME TOWN

I HAD AN ARGUMENT THE OTHER DAY WITH A GUY FROM OSCALOO

HE WAS BRAGGIN BOUT HIS OLD HOME TOWN SAYS I TO HIM WHAT TO DO

I GOT HOT RIGHT UNDER THE COLLAR TO THAT SCHOLAR I DID HOLLAR

I WAS BORN DOWN ON A STREET, RAISED UP ON B STREET

SOUTHIE IS MY HOME TOWN. THERE’S SOMETHING ABOUT IT

PERMIT ME TO SHOUT IT, WE’RE THE TOPS FROM MILES AROUND

WE HAVE DOCTORS & TRAPPERS, PREACHERS & FLAPPERS

MEN FROM THE OLD COUNTY DOWN

SAY THEY’LL TAKE YOU & BREAK YOU BUT NEVER FORSAKE YOU

SOUTHIE IS MY HOME TOWN

Great Recipe for Real Irish Coffee!!

The Town I Loved So Well

In my memory I will always see

The town that I have loved so well

Where our school played ball by the gas yard wall

And we laughed through the smoke and the smell

Going home in the rain, running up the dark lane,

Past ther gaol (jail) and down behind the fountain,

Those were happy days in so many, many ways

In the town I loved so well.

In the early morning, the shirt factory horn

Callde women from Creggan, the moor and the bog

While their men on the dole played a mother’s role

Fed the children and then trained the dogs.

And when times got tough, there was just about enough

But they saw it through without complaining

For deep inside was a burning pride

In the town I loved so well

There was music there in the Derry air

Like a language that we all could understand

I remember the day when I earned my first pay

When I played in a small pick-up band

There I spent my youth and to tell you the truth

I was sad to leave it all behind me

For I learned about life and I found a wife

In the town I loved so well

But when I returned how my eyes have burned

To see how a town could be brought to its knees

By the armoured cars and the bombed out bars

And the gas that hangs on to every breeze

Now the army’s installed by the old gas yard wall

And the damded barbed wire gets higher and higher

With their tanks and their guns oh my God what have they done

To the town I loved so well

Now the music’s gone but they carry on

For their spirit’s been bruised, never broken

They will not forget but their hearts are set

On tomorrow and peace once again.

For what’s done is done and what’s won is won

And what’s lost is lost and gone forever

I can only pray for a bright, brand new day

In the town I loved so well.

-Strong Freshly Brewed Coffee

-1-2 teaspoons of brown or white sugar

-2 ounces of Irish whiskey

-Heavy cream whipped only until lightly thickened

Warm an Irish Coffee mug by filling it with hot water. Discard hot water. Fill mug about ¾ full with coffee. Stir in sugar and Irish whiskey. Crown coffee with a half inch dollar of lightly whipped cream. To float cream, pour it into a spoon resting on top of the coffee and allow it to spill outward, covering the surface. Do not stir. Makes 1 serving.

Irish nachos are the ultimate crowdfavorite snack for St. Patrick’s Day and after one taste, you’ll want to make them for every occasion. Just picture it: Crispy golden potatoes are piled with mounds of melted cheese, crunchy bacon bits, and every other topping you can dream up. If you’re a fan of loaded nachos, skip the chips and give these crispy potato nachos a try tonight! They’re guaranteed to delight anyone who loves potato recipes in every form and flavor. What potatoes are best for Irish nachos?

Small, waxy, easy-to-slice potatoes with thin peels are best for Irish nachos. Skip the jumbo, starchy russets and go with Yukon gold, red, or new types of potatoes. Those varieties tend to hold their shape and make for a sturdier scoop for all the tastiest toppings.

What goes on top of Irish nachos? The easier question might be what doesn’t go on top of Irish nachos? Start with a healthy layer of melty shredded cheese and crispy bits of bacon, followed by sour cream,

salsa, and green onion. Next, add some zippy quick-pickled red onions, which are optional but easy to make and so worth it. Heck, you know what would also be great? A ladleful of chili, jalapeño slices, creamy ranch dressing, cooked ground beef, or even spicy pickle relish.

What’s the best way to serve Irish nachos?

Serve them straight from the sheet pan for quick cleanup! They make an excellent Irish appetizer for a crowd.

YIELDS: 6 - 8 serving(s)

PREP TIME: 10 mins

TOTAL TIME: 45 mins

I

ngredients:

• 3 lb. Yukon gold potatoes

• 4 tbsp. olive oil

• 1 tsp. ground black pepper

• 1 tsp. garlic powder

• Nonstick cooking spray

• 2 tsp. kosher salt

• 2 c. shredded cheddar-jack cheese

• 8 slices cooked bacon, crumbled

• Quick pickled onions (optional), sliced green onions, sour cream, and salsa, for serving

Oh, it is the biggest mix-up that you have ever seen.

My father, he was Orange and me mother, she was green. My father was an Ulster man, proud Protestant was he. My mother was a Catholic girl, from county Cork was she. They were married in two churches, lived happily enough, Until the day that I was born and things got rather tough.

Oh, it is the biggest mix-up that you have ever seen.

My father, he was Orange and me mother, she was green. Baptized by Father Riley, I was rushed away by car, To be made a little Orangeman, me father’s shining star.

I was christened “David Anthony, “ but still, inspite of that, To me father, I was William, while my mother called me Pat.

Oh, it is the biggest mix-up that you have ever seen.

My father, he was Orange and me mother, she was green.

With Mother every Sunday, to Mass I’d proudly stroll.

Then after that, the Orange lodge would try to save my soul.

For both sides tried to claim me, but i was smart because

I’d play the flute or play the harp, depending where I was.

Oh, it is the biggest mix-up that you have ever seen.

My father, he was Orange and me mother, she was green.

One day me Ma’s relations came round to visit me.

Just as my father’s kinfolk were all sitting down to tea.

We tried to smooth things over, but they all began to fight.

And me, being strictly neutral, I bashed everyone in sight.

Oh, it is the biggest mix-up that you have ever seen.

My father, he was Orange and me mother, she was green.

My parents never could agree about my type of school.

My learning was all done at home, that’s why I’m such a fool. They’ve both passed on, God rest ‘em, but left me caught between

That awful color problem of the Orange and the Green.

Oh it is the biggest mix up that you have ever seen

My father, he was Orange and me mother, she was green.

Yes it is the biggest mix up that you have ever seen

My father, he was Orange and me mother, she was green.

Irish Nachos The Orange and the Green Virtual Public Meeting

Virtual Public Meeting

232 A Street Public Meeting

MARCH 27

6:00 PM - 8: 00 PM

Project

Project

The

and

Zoom Link: bit.ly/3wPlRDB

Toll Free: (833) 568 - 8864

Meeting ID: 161 925 3591

response to the

Request for Additional

The purpose of the meeting is to provide an overview of doccuments, and discuss potential impacts and mitigation. The meeting will include a presentation followed by questions and comments from the public. Please note that the purpose of this meeting is different from that of a traditional community meeting. As part of the development review process, IAG members work closely with BPDA staff to identify the impacts of a project and recommend appropriate community benefits to offset those impacts. IAG meetings prioritize discussion between the project proponent (i.e. the developer) and IAG members.

Close of Public Comment Period: 4/26/2024

email:

Website bit.ly/232-A-Street

APRIL 8

6:00 PM - 8: 00 PM

Project Proponent:

Tishman Speyer

Project Description:

Zoom Link: bit.ly/48ZLY8g

Toll Free: (833) 568 - 8864

Meeting ID: 160 611 9214

The BPDA is hosting a virtual Public meeting to discuss the recently filed 7th Amendment to Planned Development Master Plan no.69, the Development Plan for 232 A Street, and the response to the BPDA Request for Additional Information. The purpose of the meeting is to provide an overview of documents, and discuss potential impacts and mitigation. The meeting will include a presentation followed by questions and comments from the public.

Carter

617.918.5303

email: nick.carter@boston.gov

Close of Public Comment

Period:

4/26/2024

Website bit.ly/232-A-Street

@BostonPlans BostonPlans.org

Teresa Polhemus, Executive Director/Secretary

South Boston Catholic Academy News

Congratulations to all the members of the SBCA Basketball Team!

On March 8, the students on the South Boston Catholic Academy’s Basketball Team did a wonderful job leading the students, families, faculty and staff at SBCA in the School Mass. This Mass was in honor of the Feast Day of St. John of God. St. John of God was the face of the Father’s mercy for the people who were sick, for the poor and for the homeless. He lived love, mercy and compassion in a truly extravagant way. The

Parochial Vicar, Father Peter Schirripa, was the celebrant at this Mass and spoke about St. John of God and also of the importance of praying (taking time out of everyday to stop, talk and listen to God). Father Peter quoted Mark’s Gospel 12:30-31... Jesus declares that the greatest commandment is to “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength. The second is this: Love your neighbor as

yourself. There is no commandment greater than these.”

Thank you to Mrs. Particia Coleman for helping the students prepare for this Mass and being such a caring, dedicated and amazing Athletic Director for our SBCA students and to all the caring and dedicated parents and coaches in the SBCA Basketball Program. Our Altar Servers did a fantastic job serving at this Mass, too. The SBCA Children’s Choir sang beautifully. They even sang a special song in Latin, “Amare et Servire”, English translation... “In everything, love and serve the Lord”. Thank you to the talented

Music Teacher, Mr. Carlo Bunyi and Parish Music Director and Organist, Ms. Kathy Clancy.

Again, Congratulations to all the members of the SBCA Basketball Team from Grades 3 to 6, for another fantastic basketball year! On behalf of our Principal, Dr. Helenann Civian and all of us at South Boston Catholic Academy we wish everyone a Happy St. Patrick’s Day! As the Irish say, Lá fhéile Pádraig sona daoibh go léir! New families are welcome to email our admissions team at admissions@sbcatholicadacademy.org for more info. about South Boston Catholic Academy.

Museums continued from front page into many programs and initiatives that were well deserved and located in many, if not all, neighborhoods of Boston. Individuals, foundations, corporations, and non-profits have missions that enhance, replenish, and uplift as many citizens as possible. Documentation of these dollars exists, and the benefits derived have universally lifted many people up –economically, spiritually, humanly, and mentally.

Nonetheless, the racism tag is perpetuated to advantage by those who desire to destabilize the european influence and philosophy that is rooted in the American political and financial power structure. However, that tactical political path employed over the last two decades is now resulting in a rejection of the so-called cancel culture movement, a questioning of the end game of progressive socialism and a potential reunification of moderate and independent thinkers.

These citizens are witnessing a deterioration of a democratic system that seems to put a priority on hate, confrontation, abrogation of individual rights and mob rule over public safety, human dignity, and tolerance of differences. Remarkably, despite the media’s attempts to demonize conservatives, while celebrating progressives, the country finds itself with a dearth of political leadership and talent. The result is that we are left with the two presumptive nominees, both of whom represent a Party System that feeds its own power pursuit and treats the citizenry as naïve, ignorant or uninterested. This is why the outcome of this presidential election will have dire consequences, either way.

This above commentary is stated ostensibly for effect, and merely to serve as a backdrop to a more mundane, but illustrative view of the decision by Mayor Michelle Wu to offer free museum passes to Boston Public School students. Several popular Boston museums will be free on the first and second Sundays of each month for Boston Public School students and three guests. The program will run from February until the end of August. Participating museums are the The Children’s Museum, Franklin Park

Zoo, The Institute of Contemporary Art, The Museum of Fine Arts, The Museum of Science and The New England Aquarium.

“Boston is home to some of the world’s best cultural and educational institutions, and our students deserve to feel at home at these institutions without any barriers,” said Mayor Michelle Wu in a statement. The participating museums say they are excited to welcome Boston Public School families to their museums. On one recent Sunday, hundreds of BPS students and families packed the New England Aquarium to check out the giant sea turtles and other sea creatures. “We hope everyone can form a deeper connection to the ocean and then take action to protect it,” said Suzanne Liola Matus, the vice president of marketing and communications at the New England Aquarium told CBS News.

Boston City Councilors Erin Murphy and Ed Flynn filed a resolution order in February requesting the city council to support the expansion of the “BPS Sundays” pilot program to include the thousands of city children not enrolled in public schools. Laudably, Mayor Wu vowed during her State of the City in January to waive admission fees at various museums and institutions for BPS students and up to three family members on the first two Sundays of each month through at least August and several thousand families have visited Boston Children’s Museum, Institute of Contemporary Art, Museum of Fine Arts, Museum of Science, New England Aquarium and Franklin Park Zoo, officials have said.

At the same time, pressure to invite city children who either attend charter and parochial schools, the METCO program, or are homeschooled, into the program has mounted. “There are over 20,000 Boston children who are enrolled in charter and parochial schools, and who attend the METCO program that should have access to the same wonderful opportunities as our BPS students,” Murphy said in a newsletter with the Boston Herald. Typically, tickets to the aquarium are $34 for adults and $25 for

children, and tickets to the science museum are $29 for adults and $24 for children. In the resolution order, Murphy and Flynn highlighted how the initiative is “using tax dollars to fund a large portion of the million dollar expense” and suggested a new name for the program, “Sundays For All.”

In a statement on the charter schools’ exclusion last week, a city spokesperson said the administration started with just the BPS community to “best understand how to engage community members and improve this program.” “As we measure and learn, we hope to add more partners and resources to be able to expand the program even further,” the spokesperson said.

While that statement handily and temporarily deflects and contains criticism, it is seemingly antithetical to the definitions within the mantra of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. Political leaders are force-feeding a political movement that smacks of an ‘Us versus Them’ and it’s message is subtly being inculcated into the developing minds of the very young school children, not to mention young parents.

Diversity is the practice of including or involving people from a range of different social and ethnic backgrounds and of different genders and sexual orientation. Equity refers to fairness and justice and is distinguished from equality. Inclusion means that people across varying identities are and feel valued, welcomed, respected, included, represented, and heard and that they fully belong, can be authentic, can contribute to the collective, and have a voice.

In essence, it means everyone. Exclusion amounts to Segregation. While not consciously meaning to, the free museum initiative essentially instills an inherent segregation mentality that should not be introduced or inculcated into the minds and hearts of our young children, especially if the goal is to continue improving race relations. Yes, improving race relations, despite the media’s ignorance of the side effects of its invalidating and diminishing coverage of Boston’s documented progress in this area of human interaction.

help residents lower energy costs, in addition to providing households with assistance for weatherization services and/or heating system upgrades;

• Address food insecurity through food pantry services and ABCD’s Senior Brown Bag Program;

• Health services to assist with disease prevention and health care;

• Housing and rental assistance, providing stabilization support and emergency rental assistance payments; and

• Youth programs which support alternative high schools and connect youth with summer employment and year-round employment.

“I am grateful for ABCD’s work to support the most vulnerable individuals and families in our neighborhoods and throughout Greater Boston,” said Rep. Biele. “These legislative briefings provide an excellent forum for in-depth dialogues between local elected officials and frontline service providers while fostering strong relationships to address pressing needs in our communities.”

For example, after learning in 2022 that the program’s Title X grant would not be funded by the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, risking supportive health services for almost 30,000 residents, ABCD worked with the Boston Delegation to restore the funding for these services through budget amendments sponsored by Rep. Biele.

The briefing was co-hosted by Rep. Biele as Chair of the Boston Delegation and Rep. Paul Donato, Second Division Chair and representing the Mystic Valley. Those in attendance included state legislators representing Boston and the Mystic Valley, Boston city councilors, and ABCD’s community leaders, board members and program directors.

Biele continued from page 5

St. Peter Academy Read Across America & Dr. Seuss Birthday Celebrations

Read Across America and Dr. Seuss’ Birthday is a big deal at St. Peter Academy and this year was one of the best celebrations! It was a gray day outside, but all the creative costumes made it bright and fun inside! There was so much excitement with all the reading and activities. Everyone from teachers to students participated. All the zany characters were represented, the Grinch, Cat and the Hat, the Lorax, Thing One & Two and even Cindy Lou Who! Happy 120th Birthday Dr. Seuss. Thank you for creating all the

wonderful characters and books for everyone to enjoy!

Today you are you! That is truer than true! There is no one alive who is you-er than you! - Dr. Seuss

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So, in case you didn’t already know, Rory McIlroy has finally come around on the whole LIV Golf thing.

I had crushed him several times because of his initial reaction to LIV, but I’m glad he’s changed his mind. The reason doesn’t matter. I just know that one of the toughest things to do as a human is to admit you were wrong. And by coming around on LIV Golf and the expected partnership between the PGA and LIV, admitting he was wrong is exactly what McIlroy is doing.

McIlroy spoke to the media at THE PLAYERS Championship this week at TPC Sawgrass, and he said he wants the PGA and LIV to speed things up and finalize their partnership deal as soon as possible.

“You fight for so long and then you just get fatigued and tired of it,” McIlroy told the media at THE PLAYERS Championship. “I think we’re all sort of sick of the fighting at this point. That’s why I’ve been so adamant that we need to figure out a way to unify the game, get everyone back together and all move forward. That’s easier said than done, but I think that would

be the best for all of us.”

McIlroy’s urgency is due to a ratings decline for PGA events so far to begin this season.

“These bigger signature events that we tried to create, they worked last year,” said McIlroy. “The ratings were up, and it was great. But you look at the ratings this year for those events in the United States and everything’s down.

“For whatever reason, the [signature events] are not quite capturing the imagination this year compared to last year,” he added.

“It’s sort of been the same across the board with some of these bigger events,” said McIlroy. “I think fans are getting fatigued of it, and I think the more and more we go down this route, the more people are just going to tune in four times a year [for the major championships], which is no good for anyone — no good for golf. That just can’t happen, so we need to figure it out.”

According to reports, last week’s Arnold Palmer Invitational saw ratings that were down 30 percent from last year.

PGA Tour commissioner Jay Monahan held a press conference at THE PLAYERS Champion -

This week,

Danny shared his thoughts on the state of professional golf, ahead of THE PLAYERS Championship:

ship on Tuesday, and addressed the holdup, saying that the deal is going to take some time to finalize, but when it’s done, it will be a great move for everyone in the sport, players and fans.

“I recently met with the governor of the PIF, Yasir Al-Rumayyan, and our negotiations are accelerating as we spend time together,” Monahan told the media at THE PLAYERS Championship. “While we have several key issues that we still need to work through, we have a shared vision to quiet the noise and unlock golf’s worldwide potential.”

“It’s going to take time,” he added, “but I reiterate what I said at the TOUR Championship in August. I see a positive outcome for the PGA TOUR and the sport as a whole.

“Most importantly, I see a positive outcome for our great fans. Despite the distractions over the last two years, fans, sponsors and communities continue to value and engage with the PGA TOUR, and I am more confident than ever in the fundamental strength of our organization.”

I agree that this deal needs to get done soon. Because the split in

talent pools in both organizations is just a little too much to follow. There are so many big names playing in the LIV tour, but I have to be honest, other than seeing highlights on social media, I have yet to sit down on the couch and watch a LIV event on TV.

And for a sport that’s becoming more and more inclusive for all ages and genders, that kind of talent split between the PGA and LIV is definitely not good for business. Just look at the aforementioned PGA event ratings.

“We are becoming a younger, more inclusive sport,” said Monahan. “You’ve got more women playing the game. We are truly global. The more that we can do to increase fandom, to bring our product forward in a way that is consistent with the way fans want to consume it and the more steps we can take to dimensionalize our great athletes, those are all steps that we can take to grow fandom.

“And when you grow fandom,” he added, “ultimately that drives your commercial success.”

So then, Jay, listen to Rory and get the deal done soon. We’re all waiting.

Follow Danny on instagram @ DannyPicard.

SPORTS TODAY

Tweet of the Week

It’s official. The Mac Jones era in New England is over.

Jones, 25, was traded to the Jacksonville Jaguars this week, in exchange for a sixth-round pick in this year’s draft.

The Patriots drafted Jones out of Alabama with the No. 15 overall pick in the 2012 draft. After a solid rookie season in which he threw for 3,800 yards and 22 touchdowns, Jones regressed his next two seasons, combining for 24 touchdowns and 23 interceptions in 2022 and 2023.

Now, Jones heads to his hometown of Jacksonville to be the backup quarterback for Trevor Lawrence, who was the No. 1 overall pick in the same draft as Jones.

In a corresponding move, the Patriots signed free-agent quarterback Jacoby

Brissett to a one-year, $8 million deal, which could be worth up to $12 million.

Brissett, 31, returns to New England after playing the last seven seasons with four different teams: the Indianapolis Colts from 2017-2020, the Miami Dolphins in 2021, the Cleveland Browns in 2022, and the Washington Commanders last season.

The Patriots originally drafted Brissett out of NC State in the third round of the 2016 draft. In his only season with the Pats, Brissett was one of two backup quarterbacks to Tom Brady during their 2016 Super Bowl championship season. The following season,

Brissett was traded to the Colts for wide receiver Phillip Dorsett.

Here’s what ESPN Patriots insider Mike Reiss had to say about Brissett’s return to New England, on ESPN.com:

“The Patriots plan to sign Brissett to a one year and $8 million contract with a maximum value of $12 million.

What it means: Brissett returns to the team that selected him in the third round of the 2016 draft, and represents a veteran “bridge” option should the Patriots draft a quarterback with the third overall pick and decide not to play him right away. Brissett was viewed as a positive veteran influence on Washington

TSBT Staff SBT Staff

second-year quarterback Sam Howell last season, and then when called upon to play late in the season, he showed he could still be effective.

Brissett’s background with first-year Patriots offensive coordinator Alex Van Pelt -- having started 11 games in Cleveland in 2022 when Van Pelt was the quarterbacks coach -- was a link that had many predicting he would ultimately land in New England this year.

What’s the risk: Minimal. The oneyear term puts more of a strain on the salary cap than a multi-year deal would have, but the Patriots have plenty of space to work with.”

PATRIOTS TRADE JONES TO JACKSONVILLE, BRING BACK BRISSETT GIBSON, HOOPER AMONG PATRIOTS’ EARLY FREE-AGENT SIGNINGS

he New England Patriots have been extremely active, entering the new league year.

On top of trading Mac Jones and replacing him with Jacoby Brissett — until the Draft — and releasing DeVante Parker, the Patriots have also signed former Washington Commanders running back Antonio Gibson, veteran tight end Austin Hooper, and former Pittsburgh Steeler offensive tackle Chukwuma Okorafor.

Gibson’s deal is for three years, $11.25 million, with a maximum value of $17.25 million. The 25-year-old was drafted by Washington out of Memphis in the third round of the 2020 draft.

In his rookie season with Washington, Gibson had 11 rushing touchdowns in 14 games,

with 795 total rush yards, while not fumbling a single time. In 2021, Gibson rushed for 1,037 yards in 16 games, with seven rushing touchdowns and three receiving touchdowns.

Gibson’s numbers haven’t been as good the last two seasons though, as he’s rushed for a combined 811 yards in 31 games, with a total of four rushing touchdowns and four receiving touchdowns in those two seasons.

Hooper’s deal is for one year, $3 million, with a maximum value of $4.25 million.

At 29 years old, Hooper has played for four teams in eight seasons, most recently with the Las Vegas Raiders in 2023, where he caught 25 passes in 17 games for 234 yards and zero touchdowns. Before that, Hooper had 41 catches for 444 yards and two touchdowns with

the Tennessee Titans in 2022.

Prior to that, Hooper played two seasons with the Cleveland Browns, where he had a total of 84 catches for 780 yards and seven touchdowns.

Hooper was originally drafted by the Atlanta Falcons out of Stanford in the third round of the 2016 draft. He played four seasons with the Falcons and had a total of 214 catches for 2,244 yards and 16 touchdowns.

Okorafor’s deal is for one year, $4 million, with a maximum value of $8.25 million. Okorafor, 26, was drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers out of Western Michigan in the third round of the 2018 draft.

Additionally, the Patriots have re-signed Kendrick Bourne, Hunter Henry, Michael Onwenu, and Josh Uche.