South Boston Today May 30 2024

SouthBoston

What’s Happening At The Exam Schools

The Boston School Committee voted earlier this year to make the first change to the admissions policy for the district’s three exam schools since adopting the policy two and a half years ago. Here’s what they did.

Under the new policy, the number of additional points available to students who attend schools where more than 40 percent of students are from low-income families has changed. The extra points are added to the students’ admissions scores, which combine grades and test scores. The bonus points will now vary between two and 10 points, based on where a student lives. For example, students who live in the richest areas of the district, referred to as Tier 8, will get just two points, while applicants from the second from last low-income area, known as Tier 2, will get 10 points. The rest of the policy didn’t change, including

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The above headline was taken to heart by most long time South Bostonians last weekend. And the good news is that so many of our new arrivals proudly showed that they felt the same way about this sacred holiday. Oh, don’t get us wrong, there was plenty of room for barbecues, spending time at our local beaches and even travelling to get away for the long weekend – the unofficial start to the summer season. But the deeper meaning, the reason for the day is and was of course to remember, honor and pay tribute to America’s true heroes that gave their lives in defense of freedom and for the country that they served and loved. This they did so that all Americans could enjoy the freedoms and liberties that our nation’s Founding Fathers envisioned for us when they created that amazing and unique document called the Constitution of the United States. The Founders were far ahead of their time, and we reap the benefits of their foresight to this day.

It’s not a pleasant to say, but so often is true that America’s news media is usually the bearer of bad news, and that news is frequently and deliberately not entirely accurate. But credit should be given when it’s due and by most media accounts the way it showed how Americans celebrated Memorial Day 2024 was right on the mark. It showed the

parades and the waving of Old Glory everywhere we turned, and the ceremonial tributes given to the fallen in every war and conflict since our young nation freed itself from the bounds of a tyrannical monarch from across the Atlantic more than 200 years ago.

Of course, it showed the family cookouts and other gatherings, but practically all of them showed Americans making it a point to include some sort of tribute and remembrance to those fallen military heroes that made it all possible. Those heroes laid lives on the line and gave all to make sure that the United States would always remain strong and free. Without the sacrifices of the fallen and in fact all of our veterans throughout our history, our country would not exist today – it’s as simple as that. In last week’s editorial in this newspaper, we predicted that the strong and enduring pride and spirit of America and the gratitude our people feel for those heroes would show itself once again this year and we are happy to say and thankful and very proud that our prediction was correct. With all the problems our great country faces today, there are some things that will never go out of style. It gives us hope for the future that the pride shown on Memorial Day 2024 will always be with us and that Americans will never – ever stop honoring those who made it possible.

Sunday, June 2 after the 9:00AM Mass In the Downstairs Hall at Gate of Heaven Church

BInformation Center The How To Keep Communities Safe And Criminals Bay

y now, most people in the country can clearly see what so called ‘progressive’ policies implemented by liberal Democrat politicians are doing to so many large cities in Blue States. They have made them more dangerous than ever; turning them into crime-infested, violent havens for criminals. The elected leaders in those cities like New York, Detroit, Chicago, Los Angeles, San Francisco and so many more are coddling the bad guys and leaving the law obeying citizens practically on their own to fend for themselves. And when those good citizens DO take action to protect themselves, in many cases it is they, the good guys, who are punished by these soft on crime politicians.

The results of these policies, which just serves to make crime even worse and encourages the bad apples to continue wreaking havoc on the innocent population is giving those fleeing the Democrat run cities even more incentive to pick up stakes and move. At least those who can afford to leave. But a percentage of those fleeing to safer, freer, and more prosperous Red States are those who voted to elect the officials destroying their former hometowns in the first place. And when they arrive at their new locations/new homes, what do they do? They start right in advocating for the same soft on crime Socialist ideas that drove them there. But in states like Florida, Texas, Oklahoma and other states run by Conservatives, there is a blunt message being issued – while they welcome new people, if you plan to attempt to turn their states into the type of place you just escaped from by foolishly voting the same way – STAY HOME, you are not welcome and not wanted.

Carmine Marceno, Sheriff of Lee County Florida put it this way. “If you have the mindset that criminals should be treated with kid gloves and

coddled, where they can rob and steal and loot, do and sell drugs in safe havens we don’t want you here”. The criminals themselves got a couple of special messages. Marceno along with other Florida sheriffs and sheriffs in Texas and other Red States pull absolutely no punches when issuing warnings to potential violent punks. Those messages are - The citizens are armed; they have a right to be armed and will shoot you if you break into and invade their homes. Santa Rosa County Sheriff Bob Johnson was even more candid in his statement to the bad guys when he stated bluntly and unapologetically that if you break in and invade a person’s home, they are not only allowed to shoot you, he would prefer that they do to save the tax payers’ money. He then offered free firearms instruction courses so that citizens will be more accurate when defending themselves their families and their homes. With those policies in place, it came as no surprise that the crime rate fell dramatically. Are those policies extreme? That would depend on what part of the country you happen to be in. It’s interesting how much safer the streets are in places where law abiding citizens are allowed to defend themselves.

The above information shows the contrast between areas/cities with priority focused on law and order and those places which are not. And this brings me to comment on reports recently released about Boston and its Mayor, Michelle Wu. It was learned that in 2021, Mayor Wu responded to a questionnaire by the leftist group called ‘Progressive Massachusetts’. The stated goal of the organization is to transform Massachusetts into a ‘bold laboratory for progressive state initiatives’. (Like it’s not that already?). The answers she gave were troubling. When asked if she supported the ‘Do

talk back to John

by email at jciccone@southbostontoday.com

Not Prosecute’ list of crimes outlined by former and now disgraced Suffolk County DA Rachael Rollins, which included such crimes as shop lifting, larceny, breaking and entering, malicious destruction of property etc., the Mayor answered ‘YES’. When asked if she would advocate for taking resources from the police budget and using that money for other city expenses, again, the answer was ‘Yes’.

Mayor Wu’s answers to that 2021 survey are so concerning because these are some of the very same policies that have led to the big spikes in crime in so many other large American cities.

These policies are unworkable and make absolutely no sense. Hopefully, the mayor has changed her views on these issues after being in office for a while and seeing the destruction and hardship on residents and business owners those views have caused and still are causing in those once beautiful cities. What might look good on paper to some, when they are actually implemented, the reality of what they actually cause hits like a sledgehammer. To be able to learn from the mistakes of others is so valuable when holding elected office. It should always supersede politics and ideology.

Note:

Ciccone

SOUTH BOSTON TODAY

John Ciccone

Democrats Banking On Abortion Rights As Key To A Biden Victory

U.S. Sen. Elizabeth Warren brought the U.S. Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committee to Boston for a field hearing on a topic that not only directly affects roughly half of the population but is also key to the Democrats’ national political strategy for 2024. Attorney General Andrea Campbell, ACLU of Massachusetts Executive Director Carol Rose, Reproductive Equity Now President Rebecca Hart Holder, Brigham and Women’s Hospital physician Dr. Kathryn Fay, and U.S. Sen. Edward Markey are expected to participate as the Economic Policy Subcommittee that Warren chairs convenes a hearing titled “The Economic and Health Impacts of Threats to Reproductive Rights.”

Warren’s office said the senator will “discuss how Massachusetts has responded to the crisis since the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade and highlight the growing national threats to abortion access, including the en-

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.

croaching attacks on medication abortion and fertility treatment, and their economic and health impact on women, especially for vulnerable populations and people of color.” Campbell is likely to detail the work of the Reproductive Justice Unit that she created in the attorney general’s office in October. At the time, Campbell said the unit was necessary to “meet the escalating antiscience, extremist attacks on our basic right to bodily autonomy with bold and comprehensive action.” In the aftermath of the Supreme Court’s decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health, which eliminated the federal right to an abortion, nearly half of the states have restricted or altogether banned access to abortion, the AG’s office said. Nationally, Democrats are hoping to make political hay this year by contrasting their positions on abortion to those of Republicans, especially presumptive presidential nominee Donald Trump. Gov. Maura Healey has been particularly active as a surrogate for President Joe Biden’s campaign,

especially around issues of reproductive rights. A CommonWealth Beacon/ GBH News poll released in April found that 67 percent of Massachusetts residents feel that the Supreme Court striking down the federal right to abortion was the wrong decision. The poll conducted by the MassINC Polling Group found that 19 percent said it was the right decision and 14 percent said they did not know or refused to answer. And reproductive rights is a big issue for young voters, always a coveted bloc, this year. The biannual Harvard Youth Poll released last month said that while inflation “dominated as the leading concern,” reproductive rights was the only issue deemed more of a concern to young people in head-tohead matchups with other issues.

Is the state inspecting shelter facilities?

The state agreed in contracts to do inspections of the state’s shelter facilities, but officials have only inspected 20 of 128 hotels — according to a

Better Business Bureau – Scam Alert

Be careful when activating your account if you’ve signed up for a streaming service, such as Netflix, Disney+, PBS Passport, or Hulu. Unfortunately, scammers are trying to steal login information and other personal data with fake websites that appear to come from the streaming service provider.

How the scam works

You purchased a subscription to a streaming service. To activate it, you need to log in on your web browser. A quick search reveals several links with the streaming service’s official name. You click on the first result.

However, the website doesn’t look quite right. For example, when you click the link, the site prompts you to update your web browser. Scammers have set up a lookalike website to trick you into downloading malware. If you click “Update” or any other button, you could download a virus that gives scammers access to your personal information. It’s best to close the page immediately. Other times, when you click on the search result, you’re directed to a website that features your streaming service’s official logo and branding. However, it looks a little (or sometimes a lot) different than what you remember. If you enter your user ID and password on a lookalike site, it goes to scammers’ hands. These con artists then have the information they

need to access your real account on the official website, and anywhere else you use that username and password.

How to avoid streaming service scams:

• Always double-check that you are visiting an official website. Scammers can make fake websites look legitimate in search engine results, but they can’t copy a website’s official URL. Before you click on a website, look closely at the URL. Check that it is spelled correctly. Scammers hope you’ll overlook this and click without a second thought.

• Be wary of ads and sponsored links. Sometimes scammers use ads to get their lookalike website to appear first in the search results. Remember, just because a website is

Globe investigation, those inspections were done in response to complaints, and some found such poor conditions that residents were moved out. The state rented most of the hotels where they’ve placed homeless families, including migrants, without initial inspection, though says it works with property owners to fix issues and relies on local officials’ oversight to stay up to date with conditions. Nobody knows whether hotels are actually being regularly inspected by authorities, and while some say shelter is better than sleeping on the streets, others point to the health and safety violations that are putting families in troublesome states.

Worker shortage prompts reduced ferry schedule to Nantucket

The Steamship Authority says a shortage of licensed dock workers will force it to reduce its schedule of trips between the Cape and Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard this summer, Jason Graziadei of the Current reports. The authority

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at the top of the list doesn’t mean it’s the official website.

• Be careful with your login information. Ensure you are on an official website before entering your username and password. Never enter this information into third-party websites. Keep in mind that legitimate customer service representatives generally do not ask for passwords over the phone or through email.

For more information

Read more about activation scams where scammers ask you to pay unnecessary fees or provide your login information. To stay alert to similar tech scams, see advice on tech support scams. Learn how to spot a scam.

If you’ve been the victim of a scam, report it on BBB Scam Tracker. Your report can help expose scammers’ tactics and protect others from falling prey to the same con.

BPDA Delivers $390k In Community Benefits To 21 South Boston Programs

The Boston Planning & Development Agency (BPDA) celebrated the disbursement of $390,000 to 21 community organizations that serve the South Boston community at an event Friday at Julie’s Family Learning Program, one of the grant recipients. The work these organizations do runs the gamut from youth sports programs, to combating food insecurity, to support for senior citizens. This funding comes from the Summer Street Hotel, Parcel K, 20 West Fifth Street, 200-204 Old Colony Avenue, and 765 Third Street projects in the South Boston neighborhood. The or-

ganizations that received the largest amount of funding include Julie’s Family Learning Program and South Boston Neighborhood House, also known as “The Ollie.”

“This funding is just one of the many benefits that comes from planning-led, responsible development,” said Chief of Planning Arthur Jemison. “I’m proud that these developments will be able to support the ongoing positive work these important organizations are doing in the South Boston community, and I want to congratulate all those involved.”

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Exam Schools continued from front page the 15 extra points that remain available to applicants who live in certain public housing, are homeless, or are in foster care. Applicants can only receive one set of bonus points.

The admissions policy divides students into eight tiers based on the socioeconomic factors of their neighborhoods, such as the percentage of people living in poverty and educational attainment levels, and they compete within those tiers. The tiers each have roughly the same number of children in grades 5 to 8 and get the same number of seats.

Here are the new bonus point values for each tier, ordered from least to most wealthy:

Tier 1: 8 points; Tier 2: 10 points; Tier 3: 9 points; Tier 4: 5 points; Tier 5: 4 points; Tier 6: 8 points; Tier 7: 4 points; Tier 8: 2 points

The new values are based on the difference in scores between students with and without bonus points last year, compared within each tier. Excluding bonus points, students from Tier 8 attending high-poverty schools scored two points lower last year in Grade 7 admissions than their neighbors attending low-poverty schools, so the new system awards those students two extra points. In future years, the district will use an average of multiple years of admissions data. Grade 7 data will also be used for Grade 9 and 10 admissions this year.

The change was driven by how difficult it was for Tier 7 and 8 students without extra points to earn admis-

sion to the exam schools. The most affluent tiers tend to have the most applications, making bonus points an important differentiator.

In the most extreme case seen in admissions for the current school year, students in some neighborhoods could not earn access to Boston Latin School without extra points — the minimum composite score needed was over 100 out of 100. For the other two exam schools, Boston Latin Academy and the John D. O’Bryant School of Math and Science, applicants living in wealthy areas needed composite scores over 97.

With the new system, a score of 97.9 would have been enough for any student to get into Boston Latin School and a score of 95.1 would be enough to get into an exam school. The proposal drew criticism at that meeting from some of the students who lose out from it: Tier 7 and 8 students who attend high-poverty schools, who will get fewer points. A group from the Josiah Quincy Upper School spoke at Wednesday’s School Committee meeting, with some students noting that despite their residential Tier, they were personally living in poverty.

That concern tied into criticism from committee member Brandon Cardet-Hernandez. Cardet-Hernandez has pushed for the additional points to be awarded to applicants based on their family’s income instead of which school they attend and complained that the bonus point

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says its ability to handle large trucks will be most impacted and that it will begin a painstaking process of rescheduling hundreds of reservations already on the books for the summer season.

No formal Legislative business this week

The House and Senate will only be meeting informally this week — solidifying a lack of official business getting done during one of the last nine full weeks left in the formal session. With the budget deadline upcoming — the new fiscal year begins July 1 — and final formal work deadline sitting at July 31, exactly when the Legislature will tap its priorities to move forward in these coming weeks is

adjustment would do little for them. Other critics said the change came too late in the admissions cycle and demanded more consideration.

Superintendent Mary Skipper said the change would have affected about 6 percent of applicants last year. Three low-income students who didn’t get bonus points would have gotten in if the new policy was already in place. Conversely, 30 admittees who got bonus points but were not low-income would not have been admitted. Skipper has urged caution and has asked the committee to wait for more years of data before making major changes. Still, she said, the administration is examining other options, including assigning points based on students’ families’ incomes rather than their schools.

Fast Forward

In a development that seems to highlight critics’ concerns, parents who spent months traveling and living in Europe with their child have filed a lawsuit against Boston Public Schools Superintendent Mary Skipper. Because of this absence, their child, identified only as STP, was not awarded bonus points under the new exam school admissions system for having attended a high-poverty school.

In fact, STP had been a student at the Hernandez dual language school in Roxbury sinc kindergarten, according to the legal complaint, which was filed in state court and reviewed by Contrarian Boston. As a result, STP was relegated to the wait list for Boston Latin School

up in the air. The majority of bills introduced this session have not made it to the governor’s desk, leaving a potential crunch down the line when time runs out.

Massachusetts sitting on thousands of mifepristone doses

After a Texas judge suspended federal approval of the drug, Gov. Healey ordered purchase of a year’s supply of mifepristone in April for almost $700K. While the Texas ruling is now on hold until a final SCOTUS decision is expected in June, Healey wanted to ensure the abortion pill remained available in Massachusetts — and will take steps to distribute the doses based on a final ruling, reports the Herald’s Chris van Buskirk. The pills have a fiveyear shelf life, and Healey got the doses

and Boston Latin Academy, according to the lawsuit.

When BPS rolled it out a few years ago, the new exam school admissions system was touted as having been designed to diversify the city’s exam schools by giving a boost to economically disadvantaged students. However, critics contend the real intent was to raise minority enrollment while lowering the number of white students admitted, something that it has succeeded in accomplishing.

Meanwhile, the new system does a poor job sorting students by family income, enabling some well-off families, due to various quirks and anomalies, to benefit from bonus points created to help impoverished students. A case in point are the numerous examples of well-off parents in the South End, Back Bay or other neighborhoods whose children get credit on their exam school applications for attending a school with a high number of poor students, regardless of their own circumstances. BPS officials have insisted they can only screen for family income in some, but not all, cases, hence a significant loophole.

The complaint does not specify the family income of the parents. That said, given they had the financial means to spend months in Europe and hire lawyers to sue BPS, it would seem doubtful they or their child would be considered economically struggling.

Lawsuits may have only just begun.

through UMass Amherst, which provides the pills through University Health Services and has certifications allowing it to order such an amount.

Campbell taps housing lawyer to lead new enforcement division

AG Andrea Campbell has tapped Esme Caramello, an attorney who has represented low-income tenants and pressed the state to change its eviction policy, to lead the newly created Housing Affordability Unit, Andrew Brinker of the Globe reports. Caramello will be responsible for overseeing enforcement of a host of housing laws and regulations, including the MBTA Communities law that requires cities and towns to allow more high-density housing.

Councilor Flynn Submits FY25 Budget Amendments

Boston City Councilor Ed Flynn submitted his FY25 budget amendment recommendations to Councilor Brian Worrell, Chair of the Ways and Means Committee. As part of the amendment recommendations, Councilor Flynn asked for a $1 million increase in funding for the Boston Police Crime Lab, and a $200,000 increase in funding for the Inspectional Services Department (ISD) for pest control inspections on the weekends. The combined $1.2 million increase will come from a decrease in the budget for Office of Participatory Budgeting, specifically from their Special Appropriation line item.

Currently, the Boston Police Crime Lab is understaffed. At a recent hearing that Councilor Flynn held, it was confirmed that the Bos-

Dear Director Castelo:

Following our hearing today, I am writing to again emphasize my unequivocal and vehement opposition to the voting process for project proposals from the Office of Participatory Budgeting, particularly in allowing residents as young as 11 years-old to vote for projects to be earmarked.

During this time of great fiscal uncertainty - with a study warning that remote work policies and the city’s declining commercial property values may cost us $500 million in revenue annually, as well as a subsequent proposal to also tax commercial property at a higher rate- now more than ever, it is critical that we show the taxpayers of Boston that we take our financial responsibilities seriously. Allowing children to decide the usage of taxpayer dollars would do just the opposite, and be viewed as tone deaf, unserious, and wholly inappropriate by my constituents.

From my understanding, the Office of Participatory Budgeting will begin its ideas collection this July, which will lead to project proposal development, and ultimately culminates in residents voting on a ballot either in-person or online with 15 proposals,

ton Police Crime Lab is not meeting its state required deadline of testing sexual assault kits within 30 days due to staffing shortages. This amendment would give the Crime Lab additional funding to hire more staff, and conduct relevant administrative and lab work, in an effort to meet the state mandated deadline of testing sexual assault kits within 30 days.

In addition, the Boston Police Crime Lab is not using the most advanced technology in the testing of sexual assault kits, which is called Y-Screening. This amendment would provide more resources to the Crime Lab to update their equipment, so that they can perform their work more efficiently and effectively, and stay in compliance with state law on testing. Separately, on the issue of pest

in which residents who are at least 11 years-old can choose up to five proposals.

Civic engagement for our youth is critically important; however, allowing children as young as 11 years-old to decide the use of budget dollars sends the wrong message to neighbors who have faced years of increased property taxes.

Deciding and voting on the budget should be an informed decision, one that the residents of Boston have entrusted to their duly elected officials. I believe that allowing children as young as 11 years-old to vote on these matters will be viewed as outof-touch and reckless, especially given the fiscal uncertainty as it relates to our future budgets. I urge that we immediately reconsider this process and demonstrate that we are serious about fiscal responsibility.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me at 617-635-3203, or at Ed.Flynn@ Boston.gov.

Sincerely,

Ed Flynn

Boston City Councilor, District 2

control, there are currently 14 ISD inspectors for pest control, and they do not work on Saturdays and Sundays. Councilor Flynn would like to see an increase in ISD funding to allow for inspections on weekends, when parties and events are more frequent in the City and violations are more likely to occur.

As of now, there is $1.4 million recommended for the Office of Participatory Budgeting as Special Appropriation for FY25. Last year, $1.75 million was appropriated in this line item and nothing has been spent yet.

“In this time of great fiscal uncertainty for our City, we need to ensure the departments that have the most urgent needs get funded. The Boston Police Crime Lab is understaffed and lagging behind in the latest equipment and technology

on the testing of sexual assault kits. It is critical that they are provided the resources they need,” said Councilor Flynn. “Boston is also one of the highest rated cities in the country in terms of pest control issues, unfortunately. We also need to have an all hands-on deck approach on the weekends too, so that we can monitor and issue fines to restaurants and households in violation of City code.”

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

Councilor Flynn Holds St Patrick’s Day & Evacuation Day Parade Task Force Meeting

Boston City Councilor Ed Flynn hosted a St Patrick’s Day & Evacuation Day Parade Task Force follow up meeting on Zoom. The meeting was attended by South Boston Elected Officials, leadership of the Allied War Veterans Council, and members of the Boston Police Department, Massachusetts State Police, MBTA Police, Boston Fire Department, and Boston EMS among others. Councilor Fly nn will look to convene the task force on a monthly basis for regu lar public safety meetings in advance of next year’s festivities.

This Task Force was set up following incidents that took place at the parade in March, and in an effort to ensure preparations for a safe and inclusive environment for all next year - especially young fami lies with children, our seniors, veterans, and persons with disabilities.

During the meeting, the Task Force discussed arrests that were made at the parade and in recent weeks, public safety precautions made this year, future areas of focus, and relevant next steps. Councilor Flynn emphasized that he would like to make a zero-tolerance policy the to p priority for next year’s events.

“Congressman Stephen Lynch, State Senator Nick Collins, Representative David Biele and I continue to work towards ensuring that next year’s St Patrick’s Day and Evacuation Day Parade is a family-friendly event where the people of South Boston and our veterans’ community is respected. We identified problematic areas and continue to discuss ways to strengthen public safety enforcement,” said Councilor Flynn. “In the final analysis, this parade is about honoring our proud immigrant roots, our Veterans, Military and Gold Star Families. We cannot let rowdy crowds, violence, and inappropriate behavior overshadow that moving forward.”

For more information, please contact Councilor Flynn’s office at 617635-3203 and Ed.Flynn@Boston.gov.

Guy The Wine Wine For The Week

Phebus Torrontes, Mendoza, Argentina, ($11.49). From Argentina’s northern region of Mendoza comes this crisp and refreshing, oak-free wine made from 100% Torrontes. A nose of fresh cut lemons with a hint of lime is followed by layers of citrus on the dry and refreshing palate. Pair with ceviche and oysters. The higher these grapes grow, the crisper and more refreshing the finished product is lemoncake, squeezed limes and other citrus notes emerge and are accompanied by a lingering finish. The fresher the seafood you serve this one with, the better.

Sanford Vineyards,2020 La Entrada Chardonnay, Santa Rita Hills, ($72.00). The 2019 La Entrada is very floral, with grilled lemons, candles, and wet rocks.

Saline and stylish, this wine is all about intense minerality and layers of bright fruit that move across the palate with a long finish. This wine is natural with a wide range of cuisines from Asian dishes to fresh ceviche.

La Entrada is planted at the entrance to La Rinconada Vineyard. The vine’s deep roots in soils derived from alluvial Santa Ynez River deposits, gives amazing aromatics, lovely texture, and age-worthy structure. Persistent flavors of ripe raspberry, boysenberry, pomegranate, and vanilla linger harmoniously, for a smooth and luscious finish.

NV Collet Art Deco-Grand

Art Brut, Champagne, France, ($49.99). In their book, The Sommelier’s Atlas of Taste, authors Rajat Parr and Jordan Mackay note that Aÿ is “a powerhouse Grand Cru village,” where vineyards are “generally south facing and lower on the hillside,” which translates to “warmer temperatures and riper wines. “While Pinot Noir dominates the vineyards around Aÿ, Collet’s Brut Art Deco Premier Cru blends 40% Chardonnay, 40% Pinot Noir, and 20% Pinot Meunier from seven Grands Crus and 13 Premiers Crus. What’s the deal with all these Crus? Simply put, Champagne ranks its vineyards from Cru to Premier Cru (prime vines from 41 villages) to Grand Cru (the best of the best from 17 villages).

In line with Parr and Mackay’s assessment, Collet attributes the Pinot Noir from Aÿ as the reason for the richness and power of its NV Brut. Freshly buttered brioche toast, button mushrooms, poached Bartlett pears, apple skin, and tart acidity — it’s clean, bright, and fresh with power, intensity, and earthy, mineral richness. The label’s “art deco” reference is woven into the fabric of Collet as the

Life Science Public Safety Public Meeting

Thursday, June 6, 2024

6:00 PM–8:00 PM

In-person: 105 West 1st Street, South Boston, MA 02127

Omovement grew in popularity post World War I, just as Collet was getting started.

2023 Bieler Family ‘Daisy’ Pinot Grigio Blend, Washington, USA, ($13.99). One of the newer wines in the Bieler family portfolio, it’s light and tangy, perfect for salads and seafood dishes. The Daisy is a Pinot Grigio-based blend that’s been jazzed up a notch by the addition of Sauvignon Blanc, a little Riesling, and a touch of Moscato. Don’t let the Riesling and Moscato fool you–this wine is dry, ripe, and aromatic with notes of grapefruit, honeysuckle, and wet stone minerality. Wines of Substance Chardonnay, Columbia Valley, 2023, ($17.99). This wine received 93 points from James Suckling, who said, “A straightforward, fruity chardonnay with sliced ripe apple and some vanilla character.”. It’s medium-bodied, with a firm texture and a pleasing, juicy and flavorful finish. It’s got a hint of toasty character, a result of being barrel fermented with native yeasts.”. This wine is pretty flexible as far as food pairings go; pizza on the weekend, grilled chicken on Sunday afternoon or a pulled pork sandwich anytime.

n June 6, 2024 at 6:00 PM the Boston Planning & Development Agency (BPDA), in partnership with the Boston Public Health Commission (BPHC), Boston Fire Department, and Boston Emergency Medical Services, will hold a public meeting to discuss the public safety protocols and regulatory responsibilities currently in place for the Boston Life Sciences industry.

The meeting will take place in-person at 105 West 1st Street in South Boston. There is access to a paid parking lot and easy MBTA access from the Broadway MBTA Station.

The Greater Boston Area has always been a hub for research laboratories, as one of the international hubs for medicine and medical research in particular. When Massachusetts invested $1 billion in the life science field in 2008, the work and the need for spaces for that work in the region grew exponentially over the next decade. During the early years of the COVID-19 pandemic, that investment became even more critical, as Boston firms played a key role in developing the vaccines that allowed us to return to some version of normal life. Today, the life science industry is a key driver of the local economy.

The goal of this discussion is to give an overview of the industry and its role in the Boston economy, and to share in detail with industry stakeholders and members of the public the City’s various protections and safeguards across City agencies.

A recording of the meeting will be posted online a few days after the event. If you have specific questions you would like addressed during the Q&A, please send them to Reuben Kantor, regardless of whether you will be able to attend.

REP. BIELE HELPS PASS LANDMARK LEGISLATION FOR VETERANS

Legislation increases benefits, tax credits, and modernizes services for veterans

Last week, State Representative David Biele joined his colleagues in the Massachusetts House of Representatives in passing legislation to support veterans across Massachusetts.

The bill, entitled An Act honoring, empowering, and recognizing our servicemembers and veterans (HERO Act), will impact hundreds of thousands of veterans living in Massachusetts by broadening the definition of a veteran, increasing tax credits and state benefits that they are eligible for, and modernizing services for veterans.

“We must continue to do everything we can to support those who have served and risked their lives for our freedom,” said Rep. Biele. “This bill increases benefits for our veterans and honors our Gold Star families.”

The bill broadens the definition of “veteran” to expand veteran benefits eligibility. This new definition includes any person that served on active duty for at least 90 days, and whose last discharge was under conditions other than dishonorable; any person that served on active duty, in the National Guard or as a reservist, including solely for training purposes and was awarded a service-connected disability, or died in such service; and any person determined to be a veteran according to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.

Veterans who are current Massachusetts residents will be eligible for benefits, regardless of how long they have resided in the state.

The HERO Act includes the following changes to veteran benefits:

• Medical assistance, dental and vision benefits: requires the Secretary of the Executive Office of Veterans Services (EOVS) to provide a medical assistance benefit, behavioral health assistance benefit, and dental benefit beyond other benefits available to veterans, including medical and dental visits, behavioral

health assessments, procedures, prescriptions, and costs.

• Benefits for dependents of veterans: updates the definition of “dependent” to include children over the age of 18 that meet the criteria for emancipation. It also expands the pool of coverage by extending benefits to dependents who are mentally or physically unable to support themselves after reaching the age of 23. This section aligns the residential eligibility requirements of the dependent of a veteran with residential eligibility requirements of the veteran, granting benefits to the dependent of a veteran that has resided in Massachusetts for one day prior to applying for benefits.

• Veteran benefits income eligibility: clarifies that an increase to an otherwise eligible veteran’s income due to a cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) made to social security, supplemental security income, or social security disability insurance would not render the recipient ineligible for benefits in the year the adjustment was issued.

• Annuity for blind, paraplegic or veterans with disabilities: starting July 1, 2024, increases from $2,000 to $2,250 the annuity for blind, paraplegic, or veterans with disabilities. Starting July 1, 2025, increases from $2,250 to $2,500 the annuity for blind, paraplegic, or veterans with disabilities.

• Massachusetts Veterans Memorial Cemeteries: codifies the authority of the recently created EOVS to operate, maintain and expand the Massachusetts Veterans Memorial Cemeteries in Agawam and Winchendon, and to add new locations, subject to the availability of funds, to meet the needs of veterans and their dependents.

• Workplace benefits and services poster: the bill requires the Secretary of EOVS, with the Secretary of Labor and Workforce Development, to create and distribute a notice includ -

ing information regarding the services and resources available to veterans to be posted in the workplace and provided on the employees first day by employers in Massachusetts with more than 50 full-time employees.

The HERO Act includes the following tax initiatives:

• Veterans’ property tax abatement and exemptions: creates two local options, a) municipalities may annually increase local property tax abatements for veterans in an amount equal to the increase in cost of living determined by the Consumer Price Index for the year and b) municipalities may offer an additional exemption to veterans that qualify for local property tax exemptions up to 100 percent of the amount of the exemption for which veteran qualifies.

• Employer tax credit for hiring veterans: increases from $2,000 to $2,500 the amount of a tax credit for each qualified veteran hired by an employer and for subsequent years of continued employment of each veteran. This applies for taxable year 2024.

• Motor Vehicle Sales Tax exemption: adds veterans with disabilities with a Purple Heart recipient plate to those allowed a sales tax exemption for the purchase of a motor vehicle for personal use.

The HERO Act also includes the following reforms:

• Recognition day for sacrifice of Gold Star families: annually requires the Governor to issue a proclamation on Memorial Day in recognition of the sacrifices of Gold Star families, and requires certain landmarks and bridges be illuminated in gold on Memorial Day including the Fore River Bridge, Zakim Bridge, and Longfellow Bridge.

• Flag requirements: requires flags to be flown at half-staff at public buildings and military installations when a military member is killed in active duty, or when the remains of a pris -

oner of war or a military member that went missing in action return home to Massachusetts, and annually on national POW/ MIA day.

• Veterans’ license plates: maintains authorization for the Registrar of Motor Vehicles (RMV) to furnish veterans, including prisoners of war and recipients of certain medals, with distinctive license plates and emblems indicating the branch of service, award received, or disability status. The distinctive plates and emblems must be issued without a fee other than the established registration fee for private passenger motor vehicles and motorcycles.

• EMT training waiver for veterans: authorizes the Department of Public Health (DPH) to issue a waiver for veterans applying for an emergency medical technician (EMT) certification in Massachusetts if it is determined by DPH that the education and training requirements for veterans and military medics of the US Armed Forces are sufficiently comparable to the requirements for EMTs in Massachusetts.

• Slot machines: the bill allows certain veteran’s organizations to be approved by the Gaming Commission and their local licensing authority for up to five slot machines on their premises.

Having passed the House of Representatives 156-0, the bill now goes to the Senate for its consideration.

The organization receiving the largest grant from this round of funding ($40,000) is Julie’s Family Learning Program. This organization offers free educational programs to underserved populations, aimed at developing strong families and successful adults.

Life Science continued from page 5 ($33,000) is the South Boston Neighborhood House. This organization has worked in South Boston for 115 years, offering social services to new mothers, families, senior citizens, and everyone in between. The grant money provided from this round of funding will support the Ollie Diaper Depot, which provides free diapers and wipes to any family in need.

Julie’s has a special focus on family literacy that brings parents and children together for activities focused on learning and family fun. In addition to the programming, this funding will help Julie’s Family Learning Program provide meals to students, emergency assistance, and career training.

“We are so grateful to the Boston Planning & Development Agency for the impact of their generous support,” said Julie’s Family Learning Program’s Executive Director Michelle Persson Reilly. “Julie’s works to empower mothers and other adult learners to transform their lives and stabilize their families. The BPDA provided funds for supportive services that are critical to student success while at Julie’s and as they move on to further education, training, or employment. The grant helps with daily meals, emergency support, transportation, case management, and career guidance, allowing students to focus on their studies and moving towards their hopes and dreams.”

The organization receiving the second largest amount of funding

“South Boston Neighborhood House (SBNH) is grateful to the City of Boston and Boston Planning and Development Agency (BPDA) for the distribution of Community Benefits funding to support so many great programs and initiatives across our community,” said SBNH Executive Director Kathy Lafferty. “Here at the Ollie this funding will support our Community Diaper Depot, a free diaper distribution program that provides free diapers, baby wipes and other needed essentials and resources to thousands of families and babies each year.

“South Boston nonprofits and community organizations provide exceptional support for our youth, families, seniors, and the underserved, and this funding will help them continue to deliver impactful programming and services.” said Councilor Ed Flynn. “It’s critical we continue to work together through careful planning, development, and community engagement.”

Former City Councilor Matt O’Malley Sworn In As BPDA Board Member

Former City Councilor Matt O’Malley was sworn in as a member of the Boston Planning & Development Agency (BPDA) Board this week. His swearing in fills the final vacancy on the Board. O’Malley was appointed to the Board by Governor Maura Healey. O’Malley served six terms on the Boston City Council in the 6th district seat and vacated his council seat in 2022. Since then, he has been working as the Chief Sustainability Officer for Vicinity Energy, where he oversees decarbonization efforts and ways to transition from reliance on fossil fuels in 12 U.S. cities. O’Malley’s first BPDA Board meeting will be June 13, 2024.

“Matt O’Malley is a proven leader with a track record of engaging community in the work of building a brighter and healthier future,” said Mayor Michelle Wu. “His work in decarbonizing buildings through a just transition from fossil fuels continues to shape Boston to be more sustainable and resilient. I am grateful to Governor Healey for nominating him and to Matt for stepping up in service.”

“Matt O’Malley has a deep understanding of the role of the BPDA from his time on the Boston City Council, and his commitment to housing and sustainability make him a valuable addition to the Board,” said Governor Maura Healey. “I was proud to appoint him and look forward to the important work he will do along with his fellow Board members.”

“I am thrilled Governor Healey chose Matt to join our Board,” said Chief of Planning Arthur

Jemison. “His expertise in sustainability, his environmental advocacy while on City Council, and his love for the City of Boston will no doubt make him a wonderful asset to the Board, and help us become a more environmentally resilient city.”

“As a born and raised Bostonian, it is an honor to be a part of the board that will grow Boston over the next few decades,” said Matt O’Malley. “I’d like to thank Governor Healey for appointing me, and I look forward to working with my fellow board members to ensure Boston’s future is green and accessible to people from all walks of life.”

The BPDA Board is an official body of five members who vote on final determinations and agreements including planning studies, rezoning initiatives, land dispositions and acquisitions, and development project approvals. The BPDA Board votes following an extensive community vetting and stakeholder review process led by staff. Four of the five board members are appointed by the Mayor and confirmed by the City Council. One member is appointed by the Governor. Board members serve five-year staggered terms.

South Boston Catholic Academy News

Students did another great job at our Spring Concerts!

On May 14 the students in the Early Childhood Center, in grades K0 and K1, and on May 16 the students at South Boston Catholic Academy in grades K2 to 6th all did a fantastic job singing at their Spring Concerts. Teacher’s were asked to select a favorite song of theirs for their class to sing.

The students sang the songs from “The Teachers’ Playlist.” Some of the songs the Early Childhood students sang included... “You are My Sunshine”, “This Little Light of Mine’’, and they ended the show with “Sweet Caroline”. The older students sang songs which included...”Man in the Mirror’’, “Walking on Sun -

shine’’, “Fight Song” and “Don’t Stop Believing”. Our Principal, Dr. Helenann Civian and our Early Childhood Director, Mrs. Kara Murphy, Thanked our talented students for the fantastic job singing and our talented Music Teacher, Mr. Carlo Bunyi, for teaching these songs to the students and for putting these two great concerts together and for wonderfully singing a solo rendition of “One Pair of Hands.” Dr. Civian also Thanked our talented

Art Teacher, Ms. Valerie Szmurlo, and our awesome 6th graders for making the colorful banners that decorated the front of the stage and they Thanked all our dedicated teachers and staff and wonderful families. Thank you to everyone who made these SBCA Spring Concerts possible and so enjoyable. New families are welcome to email our admissions team at admissions@sbcatholicadacademy.org for more info. about South Boston Catholic Academy.

Thomas J. Fitzgerald Post - Memorial Day Tradition Continues

Following the laying of the Wreath at the Vietnam Memorial last Sunday, the Fitzgerald Post hosted a breakfast for the Veterans, family and friends of the Post#561. The luncheon began with speaking engagements by Commander Mc -

Carthy, Tom Lyons, Councilor Ed Flynn, Commissioner Rob Santiago, Joe Cook, Mayor Michelle Wu, Senator Collins, State Rep. David Biele and Clerk of Court (Civil), John Powers. Each spoke on what Veterans Day means, South Boston traditions and legislation at the

City and State level which allows Veterans to receive more benefits which they earned and deserve. It was wonderful to see Yolanda Cerullo, 100 year old, USCG –ret., attending the breakfast with her friends of many years, Dianne and Joannie. Former Ambas -

sador to the Vatican, Ray Flynn and many more distinguished guests enjoyed the camaraderie and delicious spread donated by Corey Morrissey and family. South Boston is grateful and will always remember those who gave the ultimate sacrifice.

Maybe I’m crazy, but I find this fascinating.

The Jerod Mayo era Patriots is something I can’t take my eyes or ears off of, and it’s not even the Fourth of July. But I’m just so interested in what Mayo will bring to the Pats as the new head coach, after 20 years of Bill Belichick.

I watch Mayo’s press conference’s at Gillette Stadium during offseason workouts, and I keep waiting for them to say, “Nah, just kidding, here’s Bill! Bill’s back! It was all a sick and twisted joke!”

Instead, Belichick never comes out, and I’m left watching Mayo’s entire press conference on the Patriots’ website.

So, anyways, here’s some of the transcript of Mayo’s latest press conference this week:

Q: You’ve had a few practices now with Drake Maye out there with the rest of the team, not just the rookies. How have you seen him progress in this short time?

JM: Look, he is taking advantage of the opportunities that he gets. And look, we’re all being evaluated. I’m being evaluated, the players are being evaluated, and you know, hopefully everyone is open to feedback.

Q: When you talk about taking advantage of the opportunity, you have the four quarterbacks and how you divvy up the repetitions. Is there any concern that Drake’s getting enough?

JM: No. My message is, it’s not how many opportunities, it’s what you do with the opportunities that you get. Look, going back to the competition part of it, the better you do on a day-after-day basis, not just on the field but also in the classroom, the more reps you’ll get going forward.

Q: We’re used to seeing the “Patriot Way,” Bill Belichick’s way of doing things. What are you doing, if anything, to establish your own culture, to build your own personality into this team?

JM: Honestly, I’ll say in my opinion, I couldn’t articulate what the “Patriot Way” is. I just know that hard work works, and that’s how I looked at the “Patriot Way” is that we just worked harder than everyone else and I believe in that philosophy as well. So, we’ll be out here working hard and look, you try to put the guys in difficult situations to see how they respond. You put them in the weight room, heavy weight on their

This week,

Danny shared more thoughts on the New England Patriots’ offseason workouts in the absence of Bill Belichick:

backs, see how they respond, and try to build a tough, dependable football team.

Q: Brian Belichick had his father leave, his brother leave, and he stays along. I don’t know if it was awkward at all for him, but what has it been like having him stick around?

JM: He’s been fantastic, he’s been fantastic. There are other guys in the organization that it has been a little awkward for him, and those guys have handled it the right way. Look, Brian loves football, and he loves New England. I think I talked about this a little bit earlier: a guy, new baby, loves it up here, and wants to stay. We’re happy that he’s here.

Q: How do you stay authentically you out there on the field? Like, there’s pressure, you get a promotion, you’re under the spotlight, you might want to perform in a certain way. How do you stay yourself?

JM: Honestly, I mean, this is me. If you talk to guys that have known me over the years, look, I do change, I am still evolving, I’m evolving as a head coach. This isn’t the final form of Jerod Mayo, the head coach. I have only been doing

this now for a couple months, so we’ll see how it is going forward, but at the core, I am a father, I am a husband, and I am a Christian. That’s my core, and so those things won’t change. Some of the philosophy things though – and it’s not a dumb question, it actually is a good question – but some of the philosophy things, I am still kind of getting those in order and I think it’s important that you talk to other coaches around the league. You guys know Tony Dungy was here. It was great having him here and just having those discussions outside of this silo, and it’s been good.

Q: At quarterback, you guys drafted Drake, you signed Jacoby [Brissett], you drafted Joe Milton III. How is Bailey Zappe handling that and is there space for Bailey Zappe?

JM: I would put him the same category that we talked about Brian [Belichick], how it’s awkward for Brian and he’s handled it well. The same thing for Zappe, I think he has handled it fantastically. Look, he is getting reps out here. You guys see him out here, and I would say he is getting better.

Follow Danny on instagram @ DannyPicard.

What to Watch

SPORTS TODAY

CELTICS SWEEP PACERS, ADVANCE TO NBA FINALS

For the second time in three years, the Boston Celtics are going to the NBA Finals.

The C’s defeated the Indiana Pacers on Monday night to complete their four-game sweep of the Eastern Conference Finals. Now, they wait to see who their opponent will be, as the Dallas Mavericks enter Thursday night’s Game 5 of the Western Conference Finals with a 3-1 series lead over the Minnesota Timberwolves.

Last season, Boston lost to the Miami Heat in the Eastern Conference Finals. Two years ago, the Celtics advanced to the NBA

Tweet of the Week

Finals, but lost to the Golden State Warriors in six games.

The schedule for this year’s Finals has already been released. Games 1 and 2 are Thursday, June 6 and Sunday, June 9 at the TD Garden. Games 3 and 4 are Wednesday, June 12 and Friday, June 14 in either Dallas or Minnesota.

Boston has opened as the favorite to win it all at -230.

The Celtics celebrated their NBA Finals berth in Indianapolis this week, with Jaylen Brown receiving the Eastern Conference Finals MVP award.

“I wasn’t expecting it at all,” Brown told the media after the win.

“I don’t never win s---.

“I’m just happy that we won,” added Brown. “And give credit to Indiana, they played us tough. I know

BILL WALTON PASSES AWAY AT 71

Two-time NBA Champion and Hall-of-Fame center Bill Walton passed away earlier this week at the age of 71 after a battle with cancer.

Walton helped the Celtics win the NBA Championship in 1986, and was most recently known for his entertainingly-unique basketball commentary.

Here’s the Celtics’ team statement on Walton’s passing:

“Bill Walton was one of the

most consequential players of his era. A Hall of Famer, Most Valuable Player, and two-time NBA Champion, Walton could do it all, possessing great timing, complete vision of the floor, excellent fundamentals, and was of one of the greatest passing big men in league history. He derived great joy from basketball and music, and deeply cherished his moments with team-

people think that Indiana wasn’t a good team or whatever the case may be, but I thought they were as tough as anybody we played all season. They were physical, they were fast, they put a lot of pressure on us. So shout out to them, and respect to them.”

The Celtics have only lost two games through their three playoff series. They lost one game to the heat in Round 1, and one game to the Cleveland Cavaliers in Round 2.

Boston realizes it’s about to get much tougher as the organization tries for its 18th NBA Championship, and its first since 2008.

“It’s special,” Tatum told the media after advancing to the Finals again. “Even though we’ve been there before — most of us have — you don’t take it for granted. We were excited.

mates and friends. As a Celtic, Bill overcame years of debilitating injuries, regained his zest for the game, and helped guide the 1986 Boston Celtics championship with both his play and his spirit. The Boston Celtics celebrate Bill’s wonderful life and legacy, and send their deepest sympathies to the Walton family.

“Bill Walton was a great person: generous of spirit, always quick to compliment his teammates, a multitime champion and of course a Hall of Famer. We are proud to call him one of

“It was a hell of a team we just played. They made us earn every single game and we’re extremely grateful to move on to the Finals.” Brown believes this team, this year, is built different.

“We feel like we’re a different team than we were last year and the year before that,” said Brown. “I know everybody wants to continue to kind of pigeonhole us to what was happening in the past but we’ve had a different team every single year, different coaches, we’ve had like three coaches in the last five years. And still people want to make it seem like it’s the same, it’s the same, it’s the same.

“Time has gone by, experience has been gained, and I think we are ready to put our best foot forward.”

the greatest Celtics who ever lived.”

Here’s a statement from Celtics legend Larry Bird:

“I love him as a friend and as a teammate,” said Bird. “It was a thrill for me to play with my childhood idol and together we earned an NBA championship in 1986. He is one of the greatest ever to play the game. I am sure that all of my teammates are as grateful as I am that we were able to know Bill. He was such a joy to know and he will be sorely missed.”