South Boston Today April 4 2024

SouthBoston

The Politics of Government Planning In Boston

Boston has a new department, controlled by City Hall, to help build and grow the city according to Mayor Michelle Wu as she has signed an ordinance replacing the Boston Planning and Development Agency (BPDA). The BPDA is being replaced, according to this ordinance. However, this new department is a lot like the old department, performing some of the same roles the BPDA has, but with expanded responsibilities and more direct oversight from City Hall.

“We are determined and taking action every day to be a city that is grounded affordability, in resiliency, and equity. In other words, we are here for people,” Wu said at a ceremony in front of the city’s last remaining tenement building. The new department has four divisions: planning, design, development review and real estate. Each in their own way will be focused

How Serious Is The Effort To Find The Assailants At The Park?

We think by this time, everyone who follows the news to any degree is aware of the assault that took place at Medal of Honor Park at M Street on Saint Patrick’s Day. Most of you have seen the video where at least 3 youths brutally beat and seriously injured another youth; pummeling him with fists and feet, pushing him down the flight of concrete stairs where his face was then slammed into the stone and wire fence. The victim could have been killed and yet, even though there was a large crowd of onlookers standing around, not one of them stepped in to break it up or attempted to assist the lone victim. What many of those onlookers did do was pull out their phones and video the one sided attack. One was even caught on camera pointing and laughing and videoing as the victim was lying on the ground getting kicked and pounded with beer cans. The melee was to say the least

a disgusting display of bullying by the attackers and cowardice not only by them but by the surrounding crowd as well.

The video accounts of the attack that made it to the news media and South Boston’s social media pages clearly showed that the attackers were Black males and the victim; also a male was White. Was the motive behind this attack racial? At this point, we don’t really know the reason for it. If after an investigation that we’re told is ongoing it is found that it was racially motivated, by many standards, should that not qualify as a hate crime? That remains to be seen. The consensus around the community is that if the races were reversed, it would almost certainly be labeled a hate crime and a much more intense effort to identify and arrest the attackers would be taking place. As of this writing, the identities of those attackers have not been disclosed. We’re told that they haven’t been found yet. But to be blunt,

we’re not sure we can believe that; we’re not alone in this and we base this on how we’ve seen racially motivated crimes handled so often in the past because of politics; especially when they take place in and around South Boston. And what has residents even more suspicious about just how serious this so called ‘ongoing investigation actually is, is that it suddenly has disappeared into silence. We’ve seen this all before and frankly, we don’t believe a word of it.

Let’s be clear, if people are attacked because of their race or ethnicity, it should be classified as a hate crime. It shouldn’t matter which group is attacked and which group are the victims. And we’ll say this openly and loudly – ‘ALL LIVES MATTER’. However, there have been far too many cases where the racial identities of those who commit such crimes conveniently and deliberately go unreported. And in some cases, because of the race of the alleged criminals,

the investigation and the pursuit of bringing justice to the perpetrators tends to fade from the news with no real follow through or definitive findings. Will this be the case in regard to the St. Patrick’s Day attack at the park? Will this be a

serious investigation with the goal of actually finding and arresting the assailants and bringing them to justice? Or will PC politics be applied to this incident and have it just totally disappear once again. Let’s watch this one closely.

It seems people all over America are becoming fed up with the main stream media. Polls and surveys; just about every one taken in the last decade and beyond, clearly show that the public’s trust in the media’s reporting is at an all time low and it gets even lower with each passing year. Now many in the media can’t understand why; probably because they are just too full of themselves and too arrogant and out of touch with regular people to see why this is happening. So why IS it happening? Why is it that now the overwhelming majority of Americans when asked, say they cannot believe anything the press reports anymore? They say most of them have a political agenda and it’s more important to them to spread it than reporting the news accurately and without their own personal bias and prejudice. They slant the news to take the stories they ‘report’ in the directions that they – the members of the media, want them to go. To put it another way, in the current climate in our country, whenever there is a big breaking story of major importance, the two questions most asked whether openly or silently is ‘what are they trying to make us believe now?’ and/or what are they trying to hide from us by this latest distraction they are pushing?

Another habit of media members that has many Americans furious; and this also shows up in the surveys taken, is the way so many of them look down on and condescend to everyday working class citizens. So often they refer to people as ignorant, misinformed, behind the times, uneducated and even bigoted because they/we don’t live our lives the way THEY think we should. In other words, these reporters and newscasters and editors, as they suck

up to leftist so called elites, actually believe they are so much better than the average American. This brings me to a story that was accidently leaked about the members of the White House Press Corps, who fly around with Biden on Air Force One when he travels. It seems some; actually many of them have been stealing anything that isn’t nailed down on board. The leaked memo exposed an email warning that went out to all the Press Corps members that they must stop stealing items from the plane. It appears that these reporters feel they should be entitled to take the silverware, the glasses, the goblets and towels, plates and bowls – anything and everything that has the Air Force One emblem on it and keep them as souvenirs. One report stated that some of these media types, as they exit the plan are wearing bulging back packs that are so full of ‘Air Force One’ items that they can be heard rattling and clanging as they walk by security. And these are the people who look down on Americans as beneath them when all the while, these illustrious members of the media are actually nothing but petty thieves with press passes.

Moving on, for those who haven’t seen the video that has gone viral, a press conference by Sheriff Robert Johnson of Santa Rosa County in the State of Florida has the news media melting down and outraged along with the Biden Administration and liberals everywhere. But it has citizens in Santa Rosa County cheering in support.

Never one to mince words, Sheriff Johnson speaking in reference to criminals invading homes, has urged residents to arm themselves. But he went even farther than that. He also urged people to shoot home invaders breaking into their houses. And

he went even beyond that. He urged them to ‘shoot to kill’ and promised they would be in no trouble and in violation of any law as Florida has a ‘Stand your Ground’ law in place. He stated calmly but bluntly that doing so will serve two goals – it would save tax payers’ money AND it would guarantee that the culprit(s) would never again be able to invade another home. Johnson then said that people do not have to hide in a closet, run out the back door of their homes or surrender any of their possessions to the invading thieves.

So, what were the results of Sheriff

Johnson’s statements and assurances to the people who elected him? Well, it got the expected results. The home invasions have come to an abrupt stop. Why? Because most criminals are not stupid. They will not target communities where people have guns, know how to use them, are willing to do so and aren’t hindered by laws that will prevent them from defending and protecting themselves, their families and their homes. They will look elsewhere; preferably communities where there are an abundance of signs reading ‘Gun Free Zone’ where bad guys can feel safe.

Note: talk back to John Ciccone by email at jciccone@southbostontoday.com

SOUTH BOSTON TODAY

Ciccone

Pardon Me!

Massachusetts will most likely make history today.

With a single vote, the Governor’s Council could seal the deal on Gov. Maura Healey’s proposed mega-pardon of all cannabis simple possession convictions. This move would make Massachusetts the very first in the nation to forgive all simple possession convictions for marijuana, fulfilling a request President Joe Biden made of governors in 2022.

The specifics, however, are a bit sparse — and before getting to a potentially confirming vote, the Council will hold a noon hearing to address details that still leave some question marks.

One of those question marks takes the form of a discrepancy in just how many pardons will be given. While Healey estimated the pardon would impact “hundreds of thousands of people,” Councilor Joseph Ferreira said last week that the number of pardons would ring in at 69,000. And just how far back records go is another piece to that puzzle.

There’s also no answer thus far as to what the pardon process and timeline will look like. The governor has said that pardons will take impact in an immediate manner, but when the actual records will change is still unclear. Healey has admitted that it will

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.

take some time to update individual records. Traditional pardons are usually awarded on a case-by-case basis, and to take care of thousands of pardons with one vote is a completely different approach than any state has embarked on before.

In other words, it’s a question that comes with the first-in-the-country territory. Councilors are — publicly, that is — for the most part, supportive. And those like Ferreira, who wants “vetting and research” done prior to a vote, and Councilor Paul DePalo, who has described curiosities about specifics, will be looking for answers today

Everett soccer stadium hearing brings more questions to surface

A conversation about a bill that would clear the way for a pro soccer stadium in Everett (S 2692) came before a joint committee on Tuesday, highlighting a potential zoning change for a blighted land parcel on the Mystic River. City and state officials praised the plans, and residents and fans said an urban stadium would improve Everett’s commerce, spaces and entertainment. The stadium plans lay out 25,000 seats and 75 on-site parking spots. Some argue the stadium could cause traffic issues, and all believe that further community input is necessary, considering the

stadium would be a massive investment and placed in an environmental justice community.

As revenue slides, Healey plans state ‘hiring controls’ Gov. Maura Healey plans to implement new limits on hiring at state agencies as her administration moves to address lagging tax revenues and rising state expenses. More details are expected Wednesday but early indications are that agencies that want to fill vacant positions not exempt from the freeze — such as those in public safety — will be required to get approval directly from the governor’s office.

Affordable Homes Act: A second hearing

While Mass. Municipal Association supports Gov. Healey’s $4B housing bond bill, municipal leaders have concerns about infringement on local control, specifically a piece of the bill that would allow additional accessory dwelling units in singlefamily zoning districts. They say the units could put a strain on towns’ infrastructures, and that communities already have bylaws in place to regulate ADUs. Administration officials say the state would lose opportunity and revenue without the changes and have pitched the bill as a necessity to

invest in housing production.

Mass General Brigham to stop filing neglect reports if baby born exposed to drugs

Mass. General Brigham announced it won’t continue reporting suspected abuse or neglect to state child welfare if a baby is born exposed to drugs — a practice that has historically put fear in women in addiction recovery, whose prescribed recovery medication can trigger investigations. Current hospital policies differ between hospitals, and disproportionately impact women of color, reports the Globe’s Matt Stout. Now, facilities will require written consent for toxicology testing of an expecting mother or child and reports to DCF of suspected neglect will only be submitted if there’s reason to believe an infant is suffering or at risk.

Tensions rise as communities advance dire school budgets

Students in Northampton walked out of class Monday to protest planned cuts to the school district budget in the face of a $2.75M deficit for fiscal year 2025, Alexander MacDougall of the Gazette reports. And things were just as tense later when the school board wrestled with how to proceed with a week left to submit

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Senate acts to protect firefighters, increase “hot work” safety

Last week the Senate unanimously passed legislation to boost safety for people conducting “hot work”—welding, plasma cutting, and spark-producing construction— by requiring the state to create a public database of violations of the fire prevention statute, and a public notification system to alert workers of violations.

The passage of S.1485—An Act relative to violation of regulation regarding hot work processes—comes in the days following the ten-year anniversary of the tragic nine alarm fire in the Back Bay, started by welders working on a nearby iron railing, that resulted in the deaths of two Boston firefighters.

The Senate bill would work to prevent such tragedies by promoting transparency and prioritizing safety for Massachusetts firefighters.

“This legislation represents historic regulatory reforms that the Walsh-Kennedy Commission helped institute across the hot works and weld-

ing industry in Massachusetts. Passing this legislation will ensure that the critical reforms, training, oversight, and accountability needed to prevent tragedies like the Back Bay fire, will be the law of the land. We do this in honor law of Boston Fire Lieutenant Edward Walsh and Firefighter Michael Kennedy so that their sacrifices are not in vain,” said Senator Nick Collins (D-Boston), primary sponsor of the bill.

Having been passed by the Senate, the bill now heads to the House of Representatives for consideration.

Councilor Flynn Opposes Commercial Property Tax Increase

With the recent announcement of the administration’s plans to increase taxes on commercial properties, Boston City Councilor Ed Flynn indicated he is opposed to any measure to raise commercial property taxes. Councilor Flynn came to this determination after speaking with business leaders throughout Downtown Boston and the Financial District, concerned Boston residents, and representatives from the Center for State Policy Analysis at Tufts University - who recently authored a study which indicated that Downtown Boston’s vacant office buildings could decrease in value 30% by 2029, and lead to the City of Boston collecting $500 million less in revenue annually below our current levels.

Councilor Flynn, the District 2 Councilor who also represents parts of Downtown Boston and the South Boston Waterfront, is concerned about whether an increase of commercial property taxes will negatively impact the already struggling Downtown office market - where 20.1% of offices have become vacant with post-pandemic challenges and shifts to remote work. Councilor Flynn is alarmed about reports of exacerbating current issues in an already struggling development and real estate industry, with the potential to lead to an urban doom loop - where cuts to city services would make Boston less desirable and further drive down property values.

Over the past two decades, the City of Boston has seen tremendous growth and has become increasingly reliant on property taxes, which now generates around 75% of the City’s revenue. Compared to other major cities in the United States, Boston is the most reliant on property taxes to generate revenue, with commercial

property taxes also accounting for 36% of its funding.

In March, Councilor Flynn called for the establishment of a Blue Ribbon Commission made up of business leaders, labor leaders, government officials, relevant experts and neighborhood organizations to address Downtown Office Vacancies - which was unanimously passed on the Boston City Council. Last week, he also called for a review of the Payment In Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) Program with large nonprofits in the City of Boston. Last September, Councilor Flynn also filed and held a hearing to discuss bringing all city-related business back in person, with a hybrid option for public accessibility, as part of a deliberate and conscious effort to encourage a return to more in-person work, while also lending support and much-needed foot traffic to Downtown Boston and our local small businesses, which were heavily impacted during the pandemic.

“In the final analysis, whether it is popular or not, our city can no longer afford all sectors of our economy to work from home indefinitely and continue to contribute towards falling commercial property values. The City of Boston, our private sector, and nonprofit partners need to work closely together to incentivize more in-person work and bring back foot traffic to Downtown - so that it continues to be a valuable and desirable place to do business, and a key driver of our city, state, and regional economy,” said Councilor Flynn. “Now is not the time to increase commercial or residential property taxes. I will continue to advocate for City of Boston related business to be conducted in person, and for the establishment of a Blue Ribbon Commission - made up of business leaders, labor leaders, government officials and relevant experts - to examine this issue, our revenue sources, and make recommendations on how to avoid this fiscal crisis. The status quo is no longer an option.”

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

Councilor Flynn to Hold Hearing on Ordinance to Create an Office of Pest Control

Councilor Flynn will be holding a hearing on his ordinance to create an Office of Pest Control in the City of Boston on Tuesday, April 9th, at 10am. This hearing will be the first step in the process towards establishing a standalone office dedicated to pest control, and will bring together City Councilors, city officials, and residents to discuss this proposal. The hearing will be chaired by Councilor Coletta in the Committee on Government Operations.

In a key effort to tackle the persisting issue of rats in the City of Boston, Councilor Flynn filed an ordinance in January to create an Office of Pest Control to lead rodent mitigation operations. This follows a number of hearings last year in which Councilor Flynn and his colleagues discussed the City’s multi-pronged approach towards tackling pest control with officials at the Inspectional Services Department, Public Works, and Code Enforcement.

Last year, Councilor Flynn had the opportunity to speak with Kathleen Corradi, New York City’s first new Rat Czar, to get her insights and to learn about her operations. He has also spoken with Mayor Wu about the creation of a pest control office. Pest control has become a major quality of life issue for residents for many years, and was exacerbated by the pandemic when food sources moved away from restaurants to residential areas. There has been an uptick of rodent sightings across all neighborhoods in Boston and the issue of pest control has become a top

constituent complaint.

“Pest control is a serious public health issue and a top quality of life complaint I get when I talk to my constituents. I believe that an Office of Pest Control can help us better address this issue,” said Councilor Flynn. “We should have a centralized point person in the City that has overall authority and responsibility on all matters relating to rats and rodent mitigation, and an Office of Pest Control would provide that attention and oversight. I look forward to this Council hearing and working with my colleagues on this issue.”

To watch the hearing, you can go to boston.gov/city-council-tv. To submit written testimony or request to testify at the hearing, please reach out to Meghan Kavanagh at Meghan.Kavanagh@Boston.gov. For more information, please visit https://www.boston.gov/publicnotices/16107511.

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

Window continued from page 4 its spending plan. One idea floated: Reaching out to Smith College for some extra short-term financial support.

Meanwhile, in North Adams, officials are pressing forward with a plan to close one of the town’s elementary schools this summer, reconfigure the grades and cut 29 positions, including 22 teachers, Sten Spinella of the Berkshire Eagle reports.

Gov Planning continued from front page

on affordability and equity. Current employees will be transferred to the department when the change takes place next fiscal year.

Despite passing at City Hall by an 8 to 3 vote last week, some members called the whole process problematic in that they felt it was rushed and undemocratic. City Councilor Erin Murphy was one of the No votes, telling NBC10 Boston that she didn’t think this would increase the people’s say in city planning. “What I was hearing loudly from many neighbors is this isn’t going to give us the effect we want,” she said.

In October 2019, a year before she announced her mayoral bid, thenCity Councilor Wu released a hefty, detailed report arguing that the Boston Planning and Development Agency should be abolished. Wu said the BPDA, which controlled its own finances and operated with

minimum oversight, was privileging development over the concrete needs of Boston residents, and in the process exacerbating problems like economic inequality rather than ameliorating them. Because of that, Wu said, the BPDA should be replaced with a new planning agency that reversed that causal relationship and was fully integrated into city government. As analyzed by GBH recently, once mayor, Wu shifted her pitch to radically reforming the BPDA, in part because outright abolition proved technically challenging since it requires sign-off from the state Legislature in certain key areas. The new ordinance, which moves about 200 BPDA staff into a new city planning agency, doesn’t eliminate the BPDA outright, but it comes pretty close.

The BPDA will effectively consist of two boards that represent its two constituent entities, the Boston Redevelopment Authority and the

Economic Development and Industrial Corporation of Boston. Those boards are officially distinct, but they share members and effectively operate as one body. Those same boards have certain legal functions they’ll continue to discharge, including approving or rejecting certain real-estate transactions. However, the Wu administration has filed a homerule petition at the State House that would merge the two boards and also rescind the BPDA’s urbanrenewal powers, which enabled the taking of so-called blighted land for controversial projects like the razing and redevelopment of the old West End. That home-rule legislation is still pending.

Wu is engaged in an ongoing effort to reform Boston’s notoriously complicated zoning code, by offering a standardized array of options that would-be developers can pursue in certain settings as a matter of course, without needing to get buy-in from

MAYOR WU MARKS CREATION OF NEW CITY PLANNING DEPARTMENT WITH SIGNING CEREMONY

In the West End, Tuesday, Mayor Michelle Wu signed an ordinance to create a Planning Department in the City of Boston for the first time in 70 years. The ordinance restores planning as a core function of City government, ensuring its inclusion in the City’s budget, and allows for the transfer of current staff from the Boston Planning & Development Agency (BPDA) to the new Planning Department.

“Today we mark a long-overdue new chapter in Boston’s growth— grounded in affordability, resiliency, and equity,” said Mayor Michelle Wu. “This ordinance is the biggest step Boston has taken in 70 years to finally begin untangling a system of development rooted in an outdated ideology that left scars in our communities. I look forward to the work ahead with all of our residents to engage with this new Planning Department and shape Boston’s future.”

This ordinance is a major piece of Mayor Wu’s vision to transform planning and development

in Boston and complements other initiatives including: a home rule petition to end urban renewal and establish a new mission focused on resilience, affordability, and equity; the establishment of the planning advisory council; citywide zoning reform, including the “Squares + Streets” initiative to increase the availability of housing near transit, the modernization of the development review process and a design framework for guiding future development. The new Planning Department will house planning, zoning, development review, urban design, and real estate staff, as well as the support staff currently at the BPDA. The Department will be led by Chief of Planning Arthur Jemison.

“Today marks an important step in our work to truly transform planning and development in Boston and ensure we are speaking to residents with one voice as the City of Boston,” said Chief of Planning Arthur Jemison. “Under Mayor Wu’s leadership, I’m look -

neighbors who might not be inclined to give it. The mayor-controlled planning department could end up getting pushback from residents who object to giving up the veto power they’ve been able to leverage.

Given Wu’s longtime characterization of the BPDA as an entity whose ‘priorities are fundamentally flawed’, has put staffers of the BPDA on notice as the process for transitioning begins. Anticipating some angst among them, in her public announcement, Wu touted “the great work happening by all our city teams up at the BPDA” and “the hard work and talent of so many staff members.” James Arthur Jemison, who’ll lead the new department and has also been leading the BPDA itself, struck a similar note, vowing to “ensure a smooth transition for our staff, who…are the reason we’re able to take any of the steps we take, and able to continue the growth the city’s been experiencing.”

ing forward to establishing a Planning Department that can tackle Boston’s greatest challenges and plan for a City that is more resilient, affordable, and equitable.”

In addition to the creation of the Department and a pathway for the transfer of staff, the ordinance codifies the purpose of the Department as creating comprehensive plans for Boston’s built environment, a predictable zoning code and development process, urban design standards, and planning for the best use of publicly-owned land. It also formalizes the financial transfer between the City and BPDA so that the move will be cost-neutral to the City. The ordinance, which was filed by the Mayor in January, was formally approved by the Boston City Council on Wednesday, March 27.

“We know climate action requires a whole-of-government response, but that does not currently include our planning and development process. That’s part of why even new developments are flood -

ed, exacerbated by rising sea levels. This ordinance changes that,” said Hessann Farooqi, Executive Director of Boston Climate Action Network. “This Ordinance makes environmental resilience and coastal protection a core goal of the planning and development process for the first time. It’s an important step in making our developments work for everyone— today and for future generations. I commend Mayor Wu, her Administration, and our City Council for their work on this. I look forward to working with our partners in City Hall to ensure development is driven by resident needs, not just the deepest-pocketed developers.

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2,000 Easter Eggs At Medal of Honor Park!

The children of the South Boston community were on a mission last Saturday at the Easter egg hunt sponsored by the South Boston Delegation of elected officials, Clerk of Civil Courts -

John Powers, City Point Neighborhood Association and the Vietnam Memorial Committee.

When eggs were found, the kids brought them to a “prize” table and were able to choose something

they wanted. Congressman Lynch brought special eggs, 2024 wooden White House Easter Eggs. They were a big hit with the kids but more so the adults! It was a great family gathering which included the Easter Bunny and the always helpful and willing to assist South Boston High School – JROTC. As the Easter Bunny hopped down the Bunny Trail, conversations could be heard for next year. A job well done!

Guy The Wine On The Sweet Side

Many of the fastest-growing wines in the world today are not what you’d expect. Insead of being dry with a full body and long finish, they’re sweet, very often sparkling, with shorter finishes and lighter bodies. Whether you’re already enjoying this category or are considering a change, I think you’ll enjoy the following…

Vietti Moscato d’Asti Cascinetta Vietti, Italy, ($16.99). The grapes for this wine are selected from vineyards on the Vietti estate located in Castiglione Tinella. Only the best Moscato grapes with extended maturation are used for the Cascinetta. The grapes are crushed, pressed and naturally clarified. Must is stored, without sulfite, at low temperature in order to naturally prevent fermentation. The result is a wine with notes of sweet fruits, honeysuckle and caramel. It’s typically enjoyed with lighter foods-salads, grilled chicken and shellfish.

Domaine Des Nouelles Rosé d’Anjou, Loire Valley, France,

Wu continued from page 6

“Integrating planning and development functions into the rest of the city government allows for a more streamlined and coordinated process that will ensure that new development helps the City of Boston improve its transportation infrastructure, reach

($12.99). In Anjou, one of the Loire Valley’s major wine-producing zones, reds and rosés made from cabernet franc are of great renown. Unlike the dry rosés of Touraine, Sancerre and other Loire-based appellations, rosés from Anjou (Rosé d’Anjou) are known for being offdry and slightly sweet. This bottle from Domaine des Nouelles is fruit-driven, bright, and loaded with flavors of sweet cherries, red currants and rose petals. Serve chilled with sweet crepes, a fresh bowl of strawberries or simply sip it solo.

Niepoort Ruby Port, Douro, Portugal, ($17.99). When the Niepoort family moved from Holland to the Douro region

Vision Zero goals, and support regional mobility infrastructure like the MBTA and Blue Bikes,” said Jarred Johnson, Executive Director of Transit Matters. “We’re thrilled to see this change happen.”

The Department will be included in the FY25 proposed budget and

of Portugal in 1842, one of the great Port houses of Oporto began. And in 1987, as the fifth generation to make fortified wines for the family business, Dirk Niepoort started following a brand-new path. Considered a true Renaissance man, Dirk continues to make Port using the same traditional methods as his ancestors while also leading the way as one of Portugal’s most innovative, creative, and exciting producers of dry table wine. Dark red in color, with a fresh vibrant aroma of dark fruits which follows through on the palate along with a mineral character, this is a youthful wine with good ex -

will be operational as of July 1, 2024. Moving forward, the Planning Department budget will be reviewed through the City’s budget process, like other City departments. Staff of the Department will support the BPDA Board, which will remain the City’s Planning Board, reviewing

tract and great balance, offering superb drinkability.

Patrick Bottex Bugey-Cerdon

La Cueille, Savoie, France, ($22.99). Vin du Bugey-Cerdon is an unusual non-vintage sparkling red wine from the Savoie in eastern France. A blend of 80% Gamay with 20% Poulsard (a local grape), Patrick Bottex’s ‘La Cueille’ is a deep rose in color with a lovely taste of wild strawberries. Ever so slightly sweet, it makes a delightful aperitif, or party wine. And with just 8% alcohol in it, you can feel free to open a bottle for an afternoon dessert fest. Pair it with strawberry shortcake, cookies, and even soft, ripe cheeses.

development projects, planning and zoning initiatives, and land acquisition and disposition. Planning Department staff will also support the Zoning Commission and provide recommendations to the Zoning Board of Appeal, as current BPDA staff currently provides.

Virtual Public Meeting

Reserved Channel Development

Project Proponent: Oxford Pappas (OXP)

Project Description:

The BPDA is hosting a virtual Community Advisory Committee (“CAC”) meeting to discuss the recently filed Reserved Channel Development project in South Boston. The purpose of the meeting is to provide an overview of the project, and discuss potential impacts and mitigation with the CAC as well as give an overview of the role of the CAC. The meeting will include a presentation followed by questions and comments from the CAC. This meeting is one in a series of meetings to review the entirety of the proposed project.

Please note that the purpose of this meeting is different from that of a traditional community meeting, and will focus on the conversation between the CAC, the development team and members of review agencies present at the meeting.

mail to: Nick Carter

B oston Planning & Development

@BostonPlans BostonPlans.org

Teresa Polhemus, Executive Director/Secretary

SPANISH | Español

South Boston Transportation Action Plan

APRIL 17

Project Description:

Location:

115 Orton Marotta Way, South Boston, MA 02127

La Agencia de Planificación y Desarrollo de Boston (BPDA) y el Departamento de Transporte de Boston (BTD) brindarán una descripción general del borrador de las recomendaciones para el South Boston Transportation Action Plan--una colaboración con la comunidad, otros departamentos de la ciudad y agencias estatales. El borrador de las recomendaciones incluirá estrategias comprobadas y mejoras que prioricen a las personas para eliminar los accidentes de tránsito graves y fatales, y creará una red más segura y eficiente para todos los modos de transporte: caminar, andar en bicicleta, transporte público y vehículos. La reunión se llevará a cabo en español e incluirá una presentación del borrador de las recomendaciones seguida de preguntas, respuestas y comentarios.

Project Description: The Boston Planning & Development Agency (BPDA) and Boston Transportation Department (BTD) will provide an overview of the draft recommendations for the South Boston Transportation Action Plan—a collaboration with the community, other City departments, and state agencies. The draft recommendations will include proven strategies and people-first improvements to eliminate serious and fatal traffic crashes, and create a safer and more efficient network for all modes of transportation—walking, biking, transit, and vehicles. The open house will include materials highlighting the draft recommendations and staff on-hand to answer questions. Translated materials and interpretation services in Spanish will be provided.

Open House Viewing Of The New O’Brien Funeral Home

This Sunday, April 7th, 12 Noon

- 2PM

For those who thought that O’Brien’s Funeral Home was gone forever and was now just a memory to be thought about as a place where so many families that, over the years, brought their loved ones who had passed on for their final send off, you would be mistaken. In fact, there will be an Open House on Sunday, April 7th from 12 Noon till 2pm to see the newly renovated, enlarged and updated ‘O’Brien’s’ and to meet the new owners. They are John and Maureen Reen. And while the actual owners will be new, many will recognize the familiar faces of the Reen’s ; John has been a good friend and colleague of Jack and Ed Obrien and have assisted them since 2002,

as well as some of the same people who have been there for many years as valued employees of the O’Brien Family. The name will definitely remain the same. It has been O’Brien’s since 1910 and John and Maureen see no reason to change it. Many will recognize Kelly Coyne Conroy as well. Kelly has also been doing excellent work for the ‘Adopt a Platoon’ organization which works closely and successfully to assist members of the military. Kelly will be taking care of much of the clerical and other duties at O’Brien’s.

The Reen Family is certainly very familiar with the Funeral Business, They also own and operate a Burial and Cremation business in Brighton and have for many years called

Lehman, Reen and McNamara. John and Maureen are the proud parents of four sons who will also play a role in the operation. They are James 19, Jack 18, Emmett, 16 and Joe who is 11.

South Boston Today was given a tour of the renovated building. To say it is impressive would be an understatement. It is beautiful. The cosmetic changes are stunning, while keeping some of the original and familiar look. As you enter from the front door, the lighting is bright and welcoming. The flooring is all new, the furniture is top of the line and the colors on the walls, the ceilings and everywhere else look like they were created by a very talented interior designer. The entire place is open and airy and is fully and easily handicapped accessible. The restrooms have been enlarged to meet the needs of the disabled; including wheel chair access.

There are beautiful private rooms set aside and designated for families to wait and to gather for consultations with the staff. The services that O’Brien’s will offer are many; some are unique and new. John and Maureen sat with us and gave a detailed look at those offerings. There will of course be the traditional wake, funeral and burials and cremations. But they will meet with the families of the deceased and help them plan the services to ensure the family members and/or friends are completely satisfied. They can customize the services to please just about any wishes. They will work to stay within the family’s budget in an effort to help plan a service that is financially doable if at all possible. They will even work with families to help them plan ahead for the inevitable. This includes providing a multitude of choices for caskets and urns and so much more. Another option they will offer is to provide space for a more intimate gathering afterwards at O’Brien’s itself where food and other refreshments will be served. Offering this feature could be something that might appeal to the family rather than going through the task of inviting people back to the house or the expense and planning of a restaurant or function hall afterwards. Here

again, The Reen’s would take care of everything and customize it to fit the request of the family.

John and Maureen Reen named as one of their biggest priorities to treat all people who come to them with compassion, respect and empathy. They have been in the business long enough to understand that losing a loved one is one of the saddest and most traumatic times in their lives and they want to make it as least stressful as possible for the grieving families and friends. And by offering to be with them through the process and helping them through the planning or even taking care of all the planning if that is what’s requested, they are more than willing and capable.

The Reen’s plan to be good neighbors to the South Boston Community. Over the years they have made many friends here and have always felt closeness to the neighborhood and its traditions. Giving back to South Boston will also be a priority with them; such as supporting local youth sports teams and other worthy charities. John himself has been active in youth sports over the years as a coach and an organizer and appreciates the value that providing activities for neighborhood kids plays a major role in helping stabilize and strengthen any community. In regard to hiring new staff when the need arises, the Reens plan to reach out to and look for quali-

continued on page 11

O’Brien continued from page 10 fied people from the neighborhood. It’s another way they plan to give back. So remember, the open house for the reopening of O’Brien’s at 146 Dorchester Street, South Boston, will be this coming Sunday, April 7th, from 12 Noon till 2pm. Refreshments will be served and all are invited.

St. Peter Academy Easter Activities

St. Peter Academy celebrated Easter with many educational activities. Grade 2 tested whether things would float or sink when put in a plastic easter egg, decorated Easter cookies and did a chick craft. Pre-Kindergarten daubed Easter eggs and baskets. In Math, they completed AB patterns using Easter eggs. It was a great week! The entire school has been practicing their songs and dances for the Big Year End Show. Mark your calendars for June 11th!

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

The 6th Graders led the school in the presentation of the Stations of the Cross And Celebrating Easter

The Stations of the Cross, also known as the Way of the Cross or Via Crucis, commemorate Jesus’ passion and death on the cross. There are 14 stations that each depict a moment on his journey to Calvary, usually through sacred art, prayers, and reflections that can be prayed at any time. Before Easter Break, the school gathered for our Sta -

tions of the Cross at St. Brigid Church. Each sixth grade student, at South Boston Catholic Academy, created their own depiction of a Station. They also led the school in the reflections that accompany each Station. Thank you to the sixth graders for their reverent and prayerful commemoration of Jesus’ passion and death. Thank you Mrs. Maureen Bailey for

helping the 6th graders at SBCA prepare for this very special and traditional Catholic prayer especially during Lent. Thank you also to Mr. Carlo Bunyi, for his beautiful music accompaniment.

After Lent and Holy week comes Easter Sunday... Easter is the day Jesus rose from the dead after being crucified. The empty tomb means that Jesus’s words rang true. He fulfilled the promises of Scripture and conquered sin and death. Easter is the “Feast of feasts,” the moment when the Kingdom of God enters into our time (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1168-1169).

Jesus’ Death on the Cross and his Resurrection after three days shows us that death is not the end of our story. The students at the Early Childhood Center and SBCA were all excited to celebrate Easter in their classrooms! The students in K0 in the Early Childhood Center and the students in K1 at SBCA were so excited about having an Easter egg hunt in their classrooms. We hope that everyone had a Wonderful Easter! New families are welcome to email our admissions team at admissions@sbcatholicadacademy.org for more info. about South Boston Catholic Academy.

It’s a sad week in Red Sox Nation, as the loss of Larry Lucchino has stolen the headlines in the first month of the 2024 season.

We spend a lot of time in this town crushing Red Sox ownership, but very rarely do we stop to smell the roses and consider the reality that this ownership group has given us many great moments over the years. And even though Lucchino hasn’t been part of the organization’s most recent history, he was a huge part of the 2004 team that ended the curse.

And so, I’ll dedicate the rest of this space to portions of the second part of the Red Sox’ statement on Lucchino’s passing, continuing from our “Sports Today” page:

“Prior to the Red Sox, Lucchino served as President of the Baltimore Orioles (1988-93) and President and CEO of the San Diego Padres (1995-2001). In both cities, he earned a legacy for creating ballparks that have transformed the fan experience, enhanced franchise values, and positively impacted the greater civic community…

He also had the vision for the ballpark that saved baseball in San Diego. Petco Park was approved in a 1998 landslide vote on Proposition C, a campaign that Lucchino

spearheaded. As much as the Padres needed a ballpark, the city needed a catalyst to redevelop an under-utilized 26-block area in the city’s downtown. As promised, a ballpark revitalized a key neighborhood, as it had done in Baltimore and, subsequently, in Boston and Worcester. The design of the park was completed in August 2001, and construction was well underway when Lucchino left the Padres for the Red Sox after the 2001 season.

Lucchino’s passion for ballparks was rivaled by his drive for baseball’s internationalization. In 1997, he pioneered a ground-breaking relationship in Japan with the Chiba Lotte Marines and helped organize the Red Sox’ first trip to Japan in March 2008 when they opened the MLB regular season with two games at the Tokyo Dome. In addition, he previously arranged the efforts to play Major League Baseball’s first regular season games in Mexico (1996) and Hawaii (1997) and established baseball’s first International Opening Day in Monterrey, Mexico in 1999. Lucchino was also an early and active supporter of the World Baseball Classic…

In recognition for “long and meritorious service to baseball” over three decades in the game, Lucchino was awarded the Judge Emil Fuchs Award by the Boston Baseball Writers’ Asso-

This week, anny shared some thoughts on the legacy of Red Sox legend Larry Lucchino after his passing:

ciation of America at their 72nd annual BBWAA dinner in January 2011. He was inducted into the Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame in May 2012, the National Italian-American Sports Hall of Fame and the Taylor Allderdice High School Hall of Fame in November 2013, the Boston Red Sox Hall of Fame in May 2016, and the San Diego Padres Hall of Fame in July 2022.

Lucchino established major charitable foundations with three MLB franchises (The Orioles Foundation, The Padres Foundation, and The Red Sox Foundation), expanded the depth and reach of the PawSox Foundation, and in January 2020, he established the WooSox Foundation in Worcester. He has been active in numerous civic and charitable efforts, particularly in the research and treatment of cancer. During his time as President/CEO of the Red Sox, he helped strengthen the club’s longstanding partnership with Dana-Farber and The Jimmy Fund, serving as Chairman of the Jimmy Fund and establishing the WEEI/ NESN Jimmy Fund Radio-Telethon and trips to Spring Training for Jimmy Fund Clinic patients and caregivers. As an Institute Trustee beginning in 2003, Lucchino was deeply involved in Dana-Farber’s fundraising efforts. He served as co-chair of the Insti-

tute’s ambitious $1 billion “Mission Possible” campaign from 2004-2011 and chair of the Trustee Philanthropy Committee from 2014-2020. He walked in the Boston Marathon Jimmy Fund Walk and served as a member of the Dana-Farber Society, a special family of forward-thinking supporters who have invested in the Institute’s future through planned giving.

Lucchino’s connection to DanaFarber went beyond formal partnerships and fundraising efforts. The world-renowned cancer institute helped save his life three times: first from non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma in 1985, second from prostate cancer in 2000, and third from cancer in the kidney area starting in 2019.

In 2015, Lucchino and the late Jim Skeffington assembled a group that purchased the Pawtucket Red Sox, Boston’s longtime Triple-A affiliate. In August 2018, an agreement was reached with the City of Worcester and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to move the team which led to Luchino leading the creation of an innovative downtown ballpark in the city’s resurgent Canal District . . . He was selected to the inaugural WooSox Hall of Fame class in 2024.”

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SPORTS TODAY

FORMER RED SOX PRESIDENT AND CEO

LARRY LUCCHINO

PASSES

AWAY AT AGE 78

Larry Lucchino will go down as a Boston legend for helping build the 2004 World Series Champion Red Sox. Earlier this week, Lucchino passed away with his family by his side.

Here’s part of the statement from the organization:

BOSTON, MA – The Boston Red Sox mourn the loss of Red Sox Hall of Famer and former President/ CEO Larry Lucchino, who passed away early this morning at the age of 78. A visionary leader and baseball executive, Lucchino presided over the club during an historic 14year period (2002-2015) in which the team won three World Series, saved and enhanced Fenway Park, established a Major League Baseball record for consecutive sellouts, and created innovations in fan services and hospitality. The Pittsburgh native also helped establish the Red Sox Foundation and further elevated the club’s commitment to The Jimmy Fund and myriad New England philanthropies.

“Larry’s career unfolded like a playbook of triumphs, marked by transformative moments that reshaped ballpark design, enhanced the fan experience, and engineered

Tweet of the Week

the ideal conditions for championships wherever his path led him, and especially in Boston,” said Red Sox Principal Owner John Henry. “Yet, perhaps his most enduring legacy lies in the remarkable people he helped assemble at the Red Sox, all of whom are a testament to his training, wisdom, and mentorship. Many of them continue to shape the organization today, carrying forward the same vigor, vitality, and cherished sayings that were hallmarks of Larry’s personality. Larry was a formidable opponent in any arena, and while he battled hard, he always maintained the utmost respect for a worthy adversary and found genuine joy in sparring with people. I was lucky enough to have had him in my corner for 14 years and to have called him a close friend for even longer. He was truly irreplaceable and will be missed by all of us at the Red Sox.”

“When John and I joined forces with Larry in 2001, we dreamed not only of breaking an 86-year curse and winning multiple Championships, but also about how a baseball team could transform and uplift a region,” said Red Sox Chairman Tom Werner. “Larry was more decorated in sports than any of us, coming to the group with a Super Bowl ring, a World Series

ring, and even a Final Four watch from his days playing basketball at Princeton. He added to that impressive collection with us in Boston because he was the kind of man who would find a path to success no matter the obstacles. He was bold and had the audacity to dare, challenge, and even taunt our rivals in ways that made the game of baseball better. In a sport defined by statistics and standings, he was accomplished in every way, and while his career is a masterclass in leadership and innovation, he will be equally remembered for his unwavering commitment to community engagement and his hands-on role with the Red Sox Foundation and The Jimmy Fund. We are devasted by the loss of a great man, a great leader, and a great friend.”

“There are so many of us who were given our start in baseball by Larry,” said Red Sox President & CEO Sam Kennedy. “He loved a good slogan and his campaign to ‘free the Brookline two’ liberated Theo and I from the San Diego Padres, allowing us to work for our hometown team and changing the trajectory of our lives forever. He instilled in us, and so many others, a work ethic, passion, competitive fire that we will carry forever. His legacy is one that all

MLB SATURDAY, APRIL 6

Boston at LA Angels

9:30 P.M. NESN

SUNDAY, APRIL 7

Boston at LA Angels

4 P.M. NESN

TUESDAY, APRIL 9

Opening Day at Fenway

Baltimore at Boston

2:10 P.M. NESN

NBA FRIDAY, APRIL 5

Sacramento at Boston

7:30 P.M. NBCSB

SUNDAY, APRIL 7

Portland at Boston

6 P.M. NBCSB

NHL SATURDAY, APRIL 6

Florida at Boston

3:30 P.M. NESN

WWE SAT, APRIL 6 - SUN, APRIL 7

WrestleMania XL

7 P.M. Peacock

of us who were taught by him feel a deep responsibility to uphold. When those he mentored moved on from the Red Sox, he would always say ‘we’ll leave a light on for you.’ The lights will always be on for you at Fenway Park, Larry. May you rest in peace.”

Lucchino was instrumental in bringing together Principal Owner John Henry, Chairman Tom Werner, and their partners, who purchased the Red Sox, Fenway Park, and 80 percent of NESN in December 2001. During his tenure the Red Sox reached the Postseason seven times in 14 years and won three World Series Championships (2004, 2007, 2013), the first of which broke an 86-year drought. Under his leadership, the club set franchise attendance records in eight of Lucchino’s 14 seasons and set Major League Baseball’s attendance record by selling out every game (820 straight) from May 15, 2003, through April 8, 2013. He was instrumental in conceiving and executing 10 years of major improvements to Fenway Park that preserved, protected, and enhanced “America’s Most Beloved Ballpark.” Lucchino also oversaw the construction of JetBlue Park, which replicated Fenway Park’s dimensions at the club’s Spring Training home in Lee County, Florida.

SBT Staff