South Boston Today June 6 2024

SouthBoston

Data-Driven

City Council Budget Approval Includes Police And Fire Cuts

The Boston City Council defended its use of a data-driven approach to rationalizing budget decisions and approved more than $15 million in amendments to the mayor’s budget which include cuts to police and fire department budgets, as well as other city services. The City Council passed an amended version of Mayor Michelle Wu’s $4.6 billion budget for fiscal year 2025, via a 10-3 vote, on Wednesday, setting a seven-day clock for the mayor to either approve or veto the changes.

While several councilors spoke against cuts to departments that provide basic city services — such as police, fire, public works, transportation and the Boston Center for Youth and Families — the majority pointed to a data-driven process that took from big-budget departments that have historically been underspending for other initiatives that benefit residents.

Memorial Day being the unofficial start to summer, the signs of this much waited for season are everywhere. But among the things that always remain are the beautiful sunsets visible during every clear cloudless evening and the rising moon that follows the long span of daylight that can be viewed along our shoreline. And/or, if you’re an early riser, there’s always the sunrise that starts the day. Many people take those long awaited vacations and spend much more time outdoors. But a sure sign of the warmer weather arriving in Southie, is the kid run lemonade stands that begin to pop up around town. These lemonade stands are showing up in several parts of the neighborhood already and June as only just begun. And most residents

seem to be pleased that they are.

Many long time residents are happy to see this near forgotten tradition return while many of our new arrivals seem to like it too and appear to be a little intrigued by the concept of our local young entrepreneurs going into business for themselves. Both long timers and newcomers have been quick to show their support by stopping by the stands and purchasing a tasty cool glass of the refreshing beverage and maybe buy a cookie or two. This is to the delight of the hard working youthful go getters. It can be a lucrative endeavor, with a decent amount of money made. Why? Because many adults have a soft spot in their hearts for the younger - MUCH younger set willing to put in the time and effort to make some cash.

This newspaper has received quite

a few calls, emails, Tweets and other social media comments and even one hand written letter in the mail from neighbors who wanted to bring the return of this old tradition to our attention and give praise to the kids. There has been no complaints at all; just one somewhat cautious person wondering if the beverages being sold were FDA approved. She was joking of course

Most editorials that appear in newspapers; including this one, so often deal with serious; even negative issues. But every once in a while it’s nice to be able to take a break and talk about something pleasant and positive. And the way we see it, what could be more pleasant than giving praise to local young people who show incentive to earn their own money while serving their neighbors? Here’s hoping that the city and state don’t think of a way to hit these kids up for license and permits requirements and taxes. It is after all Boston, Massachusetts).

So we’d like to make a suggestion. If you’re out and about and you happen to come across one of these kid run lemonade stands, why not stop and make a purchase? You’ll be doing your part to help encourage a good work ethic while bringing smiles to the faces of some great local kids. And from all the reports coming in, its unanimous - the lemonade is delicious and very reasonably priced (Tipping allowed).

June 12, 2024, 6:00 pm at Compass on the Bay Assisted Living and Memory Support Community, 1380 Columbia Road, South Boston. Dealing with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementia isn’t easy, so it is helpful to share your concerns and personal experiences with others who completely understand what you’re going through. You will also learn about proven strategies to help you better care for your family member. This group is held both in person and virtually. Call 617-2685450 or email Program Director Erin Bollinger at ebollinger@compassonthebay.com for more information and to register by June 7.

TInformation Center The Could California’s Mileage Tax Be Coming To The Bay State?

hey are fleeing California by the thousands. Those famous wagon trains of the old west carrying settlers from the eastern and Midwestern states to a ‘better life in California or what was thought to be like a promised land have been replaced. The flow has now reversed itself. The covered wagons have been substitutes with convoys of UHaul trucks and trailers packed with Americans who just can’t take any longer what ‘Cali’ has turned into. It’s now a Socialist style dictatorship where citizens are being crushed by tons of regulations and taxes to the point where their freedom is being chipped away constantly and the tax burden makes it impossible for most people to be able to afford to make ends meet. There are so many rules and restrictive laws being passed that the state’s legislature should change the entering California border signs to “Welcome To California – Give Us Your Wallets.

The state is now countless billions in debt because the taxpayers are leaving in droves. And it’s not just the middle class going, even dozens of rich Hollywood types are calling it quits and moving to states like Texas, Utah, Montana, Wyoming and other Red States where it’s still America and free. Businesses, large and small are fleeing as well.

Now, one would think that after seeing this mass exodus taking place causing California to go broke, the politicians there would change their ways and try to provide reasons to stay. But no, these are liberal Democrats in charge and common sense and reality is not in their DNA. So, they are preparing to double down with even more crippling taxes. They are seriously now considering hitting people with a mileage tax. For every mile you drive, they

charge an extra 30 cents on top of what is the highest tax on gas in the country. And for those people who opted to drive Electric Vehicles or EV’s partly because they think it will save the planet but mostly to save money on gas, the state’s politicians are considering charging them 30 cents a mile as well.

If you don’t follow the political schemes that go on at the Massachusetts state house, or maybe you’re just a tad too trusting and naïve and you think it would never happen here, let me remind you that there are a bunch of Bay State Pols who would like nothing better than to tack on the same type of mileage tax here. They’ve made several attempts in the past. And though their attempts have so far been rebuffed or defeated, when it comes to adding new taxes, liberal Democrats never quit. It’s like an addiction. They feed off raising taxes like the mythical Count Dracula craved blood. It matters not to them that all these new taxes and tax hikes are ruining the economies and driving people away in California and other states like New York, Illinois and yes, even in Massachusetts where people are also packing up and leaving. They just don’t care. They are not capable of learning from the mistakes of others.

So, if you think that it couldn’t happen here, it could be wishful thinking on your part. If they think they can get away with it, they will push hard for it during an off-election year because they rely on too many voters having short memories. Staying on the subject of not being capable or just not wanting to learn from the mistakes of others, certain members of the Boston City Council are at it again. They are floating proposals to cut even more funding from the Boston Police

Department’s budget.

Just about every American is aware of what happens when police budgets are cut. Those cities around the country that did this have had major increases in crime and violence. Police departments just don’t have the resources they need to do their jobs as they should. It has also led to massive early retirements of cops and difficulty getting enough recruits to fill those positions. And yet, there are city councilors who know this and want to do it anyway. Their actions beg the question – are they doing this because they just don’t understand

the consequences their stupid ideas will bring or is it a deliberate plan to cause turmoil in the city. With some of the left-wing extremists on the current council, the latter really cannot be ruled out. Fortunately, councilors Ed Flynn and Erin Murphy are working to oppose any cuts to the police budget. It’s good to know that there are still voices of reason on the city council, but they are outnumbered by those members who are increasingly referred to as ‘The Crazies’. If there ever was a descriptive nick name to apply here, this one seems to fit pretty well.

SOUTH BOSTON TODAY

John Ciccone

Climate Tech Conference Underway

Boston opened its doors this week for an inaugural climate technology conference that will span countries, concepts and goals. Tonight features the first remarks of the conference, which will end Wednesday and is being touted by state leaders as a massive opportunity for the city and state to prove their place in the global conversation.

Gov. Maura Healey has been adamant that Massachusetts needs to go “big” on climate tech. She wants to invest $1.3 billion over the next decade into developing the state’s climate tech infrastructure as part of her administration’s economic development bill (H 4459), which would reportedly create a $16 billion return on investment and around 7,000 new jobs.

Where this conference will place the Bay State in the global climate tech industry is one question. What else state government will do to address climate change is another: legislative leaders have said they

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.

plan to bring forward another major climate bill this session, but so far even the contours of that measure are unknown. “Whether or not Massachusetts or every state or the nation can meet its climate action goals by the timelines we’ve set forth is a question,” Northeast Clean Energy Council President Joe Curtatone said on Keller at Large on Sunday. “It speaks to, are we moving with enough deliberate pace and aligning regulation, policy and investment, and bringing projects and technologies online to get there?”

Curtatone said Sunday that leaders need to “move faster” and “execute better” to move away from fossil fuel dependency and to bring renewables and technologies online to market. A big portion of that, he added, involves aligning private and public sector perspectives. State leaders and advocates have been ringing the warning bells for years about the importance of prompt action. And between goals to electrify the grid, fund solar and wind power, and get EVs on the road, the urge

to move quickly on the topic is never far from view.

Yet if, how and when the Legislature may take up the topic in the remaining eight weeks of this session is uncertain, and how leaders will pitch the burgeoning promise of climate tech in a changing climate will color this week’s summit.

Mixed reaction from Bay State Dems on Biden’s border measures

Gov. Healey says she “strongly support[s]” President Biden’s new executive orders that essentially shut down the country’s southern border, while many in the state’s legislative delegation were quick to condemn the action, Samantha Gross of the Globe reports. U.S. Rep. Ayanna Pressley said the move amounted to “unearthing policies of the last administration,” and U.S. Sen. Ed Markey urged Biden to reverse the policies as soon as possible. Also raising red flags were immigration advocates, who say the hard-number cap could mean that migrants with valid asylum claims

will be forced to turn to non-legal means of entering the country.

Healey gives another climate tech pitch

During the inaugural ClimaTech global conference Tuesday in Boston, Gov. Healey spoke to energy experts and investors about the importance of investing in climate technology, pointing to her economic development bill as a way to do so. As the bill is being reviewed by the Legislature, Economic Development Secretary Yvonne Hao noted Tuesday it’s essential for lawmakers to maintain capital funding to invest in labs and manufacturing, tax incentives to create jobs, and dollars for MassCEC grants and training programs.

Will the Legislature get to a climate bill? And if so, what will be in it?

Environmental advocates are concerned the Legislature is going to run out of time this session to pass a comprehensive climate bill, pushing off items they’ve deemed most

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MBTA’s Dorchester Avenue Bridge Replacement Project – Construction Update

The Project has recently completed the steel girder erection phase of the project and continues moving forward with construction. During the upcoming weekends from Friday night June 07 through Monday, June 10, and Friday night June 14 through Monday, June 17, the Project will be working continuously around the clock, during which time neighbors can expect increased construction activity resulting in noise and minor traffic inconveniences.

During this time the bridge will continue to remain closed to vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists, therefore the vehicle and pedestrian detour maps as seen below remain in place.

Councilor Flynn Files Hearing on the Impact of CORI on Access to

Employment and Opportunities

City Councilor Ed Flynn filed a hearing order at this week’s Council Meeting to discuss how criminal offender record information (CORI) affects employment, housing, and other opportunities. Criminal records often harm access to resources and opportunities for those with prior convictions. Despite progress made on CORI reform in recent years, there is still room for improvement. This hearing intends to discuss how CORI impacts a person’s ability in seeking employment and other resources, the effectiveness of existing CORI reforms, and how we can further expand opportunities for people with CORI.

The negative effects of criminal conviction are magnified for our communities of color, who not only face higher conviction rates than whites, but tend to fare worse, at baseline, on employment outcomes and related measures of wellbeing. Having a criminal record often impedes access for past offenders for employment, housing, and other opportunities, and there are CORI reforms at the state level that attempt to expand opportunities for those with CORI. In 2010, Governor Deval Patrick signed the Massachusetts Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) Reform

into law, which barred employers from asking early-stage applicants questions about their criminal history (known as “ban the box”), and in 2018, the Massachusetts legislature expanded the 2010 CORI Reform law, reducing the period for required disclosure of misdemeanor convictions from five years to three years, among others.

However, despite these reforms, research shows that banning the box still often failed to reduce employer discrimination related to criminal records, and that there should also be focus on alternative measures to improve reentry prospects for former convicts and policies that decrease the likelihood of conviction in the first place.

“As a former probation officer, I witnessed firsthand the impact that CORI can have on a person’s ability to access opportunities that would help put them on the right path,” said Councilor Flynn. “People with records are often unable to obtain employment, housing, or other essential resources, preventing them from fully reentering society. In our discussion about racial equity and reforms to the criminal justice system, we should also be talking about how we can ensure that people with records are given a fair chance in getting jobs and other opportunities. I look forward to working with advocates and my colleagues on this important issue.”

For more information, please contact Councilor Flynn’s office at 617-6353203 and Ed.Flynn@Boston.gov.

Councilor Flynn Hosted Listening Session on Boylston Street Bus and Bike Lane Changes

Yesterday, Boston City Councilor Ed Flynn hosted a Zoom Listening Session on Boylston Street Bus and Bike Lane changes. This was in response to comments and feedback from Back Bay residents and the business community about Boston Transportation Department’s (BTD) planned changes to add both a bus and a bike lane on Boylston Street, while reducing vehicle travel lanes to two.

Over the past few weeks, Councilor Flynn heard comments particularly from the business community about how the removal of vehicle travel lanes would impact truck deliveries, Uber and Lyft pick-up and drop-off, as well as the loss of 95 street parking spots. Residents also called attention to public safety challenges with mopeds and e-bikes from third party deliveries, often running red lights, stop signs, and going the wrong way on one-way streets. In a hearing order from February, Councilor Flynn called on BTD and the city to instead focus on regulation of these public safety issues, and continues to advocate for strict enforcement by the Boston Police. Concerns were also raised about how the planned changes could have a wider economic impact on Back Bay and the city in the longer term, as Boston grapples with difficult fiscal challenges in the years ahead. Councilor Flynn also heard from both residents of the city, and those in neighboring communities, that making driving and parking more difficult on major commercial corridors would deter them and their families

from coming in to support these local businesses, restaurants, and institutions - which could have a negative impact on the economic vitality of Boston.

“At a time of great fiscal uncertainty for Boston - with a persistent lack of foot traffic since the pandemic, a study indicating remote work and declining commercial property values may cost Boston $500 million in annual revenue, and a proposal to raise commercial property taxes - we should not be making it more difficult for people to come into the heart of the city and support Boston’s economy,” said Councilor Flynn. “The reality is that by reducing two vehicular travel lanes on a major commercial corridor like Boylston Street for both a bus and bike lane, and eliminating 95 parking spots, we will be setting up barriers for residents of the city and the Greater Boston area to contribute to our economic vitality. It is critical that businesses and residents are consulted and heard in a genuine and legitimate community process, and that the city makes compromises in good-faith to not disrupt our economy. The charm and success of the Back Bay did not occur through happenstance - it is because of the willingness of residents, businesses, and the city in working together.”

For more information, please contact Councilor Flynn’s office at 617-6353203 and Ed.Flynn@Boston.gov

Why Should D-Day Be Important To Today’s Youth?

D-Day, which occurred on June 6, 1944, remains significant for today’s youth due to its pivotal role in World War II.

Here’s why:

1.Turning Point in WWII: D-Day marked the largest land, sea, and air invasion ever attempted. Allied forces boldly invaded Nazi-held Europe, beginning to turn the tide of the war. The successful operation paved the way for liberation and eventual victory against the Axis powers.

2.Gratitude and Sacrifice: D-Day veterans risked their lives to secure

freedom. President Bill Clinton aptly said, “They gave us our world.” These troops set the standard and their sacrifice continues to inspire generations.

3.Collective Historical Impact: D-Day is one of the most famous single days in human history. It shaped the course of WWII and influenced the world we live in today. As we commemorate its 80th anniversary, we honor the memories of those who participated.

In summary, D-Day’s significance lies in its impact on global history, the sacrifices made by brave soldiers, and the lessons it teaches about courage and resilience.

Police & Fire Cuts continued from front page “I reject any notion that we are cutting or creating this narrative in which we are being irresponsible,” City Councilor Julia Mejia said, adding that the Council is not trying to “cut city services and cause harm,” but rather make investments that she said their constituents have been asking for, including housing. “At the end of the day, it’s really important for us to flex what little muscle we have, and send a strong message that, as a body, we’re able to organize together to listen to our constituents, and deliver,” she added. “That’s the message that will be sent over to the administration.”

At issue was whether a series of cuts to departments that deliver basic city services would have a direct impact on residents. The Council made a number of amendments that would collectively cut what the mayor had recommended for the police department by nearly $3 million, funds that would be reallocated for the body’s priorities around youth jobs, housing, violence intervention and English classes for immigrant parents.

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important, like protecting marginalized groups from climate change and calling for a rapid renewable energy transition. The Legislature’s energy committee, however, has a more optimistic view: that lawmakers will indeed get another climate and

The cuts, whittled down from amendments that initially would have slashed more than $18 million from BPD, were criticized by Larry Calderone, president of the Boston Police Patrolmen’s Association, the city’s largest police union, who called the move “absurdly irresponsible” in the days leading up to the vote. Councilor Benjamin Weber pushed back on “the narrative that we’re cutting from the police department,” adding that he didn’t think “any of the cuts we made were ideological.”

He pointed to data provided to the Council that showed there were a high number of vacant positions in the department, money that councilors chose to reallocate, an argument that differs from what Calderone has said, which is that BPD needs more funding to hire more officers. Weber also cited a transfer that would move $1 million from other parts of the police budget to the Boston Police Crime Lab to help with its sexual assault testing kit backlog. “I think we’re all hoping that teamwork can defeat mavericks,” Weber said.

Other councilors weren’t con-

energy bill done despite the late hour. Top Democrats have also spoken about getting a climate bill passed this session, but information about details and timelines are still sparse.

There hasn’t been much information about what exactly would be in a climate bill this session, but on Tues-

vinced, however, with John FitzGerald stating that, “on principle,” he couldn’t support a budget that was cutting from certain departments like police, fire and BCYF. Councilors Ed Flynn and Erin Murphy agreed, with Murphy stating she was “truly disappointed in the course we’re charting for the city.” “To cut from critical departments that provide quality of life services and support to residents is something I don’t support,” Flynn said.

In addition to police, the amendments would reduce what the mayor had recommended for the public works, fire, and transportation departments by $800,000, $734,999 and $600,000, respectively. The snow and winter management funding would decrease by $250,000 and the Council is seeking to move $570,000 worth of funding from the BCYF community center to youth employment initiatives.

Council Vice President Brian Worrell, who shepherded this year’s budget review process as chair of the Ways and Means committee, pushed back on the criticism, saying that the approved amendments were

based on data analysis that looked at where the city has historically underspent over the past six years.

The Council’s amended budget makes $15.3 million in new investments in housing, career and college readiness, quality of life and community safety, Worrell said, while “hailing it as a major step toward creating a more equitable and thriving community for all residents.”

Worrell also noted that departments that saw reductions like police, fire and the BCYF, will still be increasing compared to their bottomline budgets for fiscal year 2024. “We used a data-driven process to ensure that the FY25 budget reflects the needs and aspirations of our communities,” Worrell said.

Mayor Wu chose to veto similar, although much higher cuts, the Council tried to make last year to the police, fire, transportation, and public works budget. Her office said the mayor will be “reviewing the amendments in the next few days.” If the amendments are rejected by the mayor, the Council would need a two-thirds vote, or nine votes, to override the veto.

day during a Western Massachusetts Solar Forum, speakers shared some details about potential items. Gov. Healey’s administration is drafting the legislation, which could include some reforms to siting and permitting and the development of environmental justice and public participation offices, per recommendations from the Commission on Clean Energy Infrastructure Siting and Permitting.

Local option transfer tax support could emerge on House floor House Democrats did not include a Healey-supported local option transfer fee in their proposed housing bond bill. Some supporters of the fee from within the Legislature, however, could try to force the question on the House floor today during debate on the $6.2B bill. Some reps are throwing in alternatives to the mix of amendments, including limiting the transfer fee to just the Cape and islands, or creating a transfer fee pilot program for a select number of municipalities across the Commonwealth.

Mass. League of Community Health Centers wants sway in Legislature’s health bills

During its State House lobby day, the president of the Massachusetts League of Community Health Centers said centers are under even more strain than they were last year, facing extensive wait times on primary care appointments, low staff retention, increasingly complex medical issues, and increasing numbers, as the influx of migrants also need care. The group is hopeful that health care bills in the Legislature will address centers’ struggles, and specifically want millions in funding to aid capital needs and to run programs that recruit and train workers within facilities’ communities. They also want to ensure that commercial plans don’t pay health centers less than MassHealth, among other desires, reports the News Service’s Colin A Young. Advocates are pushing for systemic and immediate reform, as centers are facing numbers far beyond capacity while still having waitlists.

MAYOR WU ANNOUNCES CARLETON JONES AS EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE PUBLIC FACILITIES DEPARTMENT

Rohn MacNulty to assume role of Deputy Director

Mayor Wu announced the appointment of Carleton Jones as the Executive Director of the Public Facilities Department (PFD) and Rohn MacNulty as Deputy Director. Carleton succeeds Kerrie Griffin who served as Executive Director from February 2021 until May 31, 2024. PFD supports other City of Boston departments in the planning, design, construction, and major renovations of City-owned buildings. Under Director Griffin’s leadership, PFD helped execute on the Mayor’s capital plan, opening new buildings and renovating aging ones, such as the Boston Arts Academy, BCYF Mattahunt Community Center, Engine 42 Fire Station, EMS Training Facility, and Faneuil Branch of the Boston Public Library. Carleton and Rohn will continue this dedication to ensure every resident in every neighborhood has access to state of the art facilities and City services.

“Kerrie’s leadership over the last few years has transformed beloved city buildings in need of repair into modern community spaces for generations to come,” said Mayor Michelle Wu. “From pools to police stations, PFD’s work touches so many aspects

of our residents’ daily lives. I’m confident Carleton and Rohn will continue the ongoing work to make our municipal buildings more accessible, enjoyable, and sustainable.”

“I am deeply grateful for Kerrie’s many contributions and steadfast leadership. Her fierce dedication, integrity, and tireless commitment to bettering the City’s infrastructure will be sorely missed,” said Dion Irish, Chief of Operations. “We are excited to announce the appointment of Carleton Jones, former Deputy Director, as our new Director, and Rohn MacNulty as Deputy Director. We are confident that Carleton and Rohn’s extensive experience and proven expertise will continue to drive our projects forward and build on the strong foundation laid by Director Griffin!”

Carleton Jones has over 30 years of public service. Most recently he served as Deputy Director of PFD and prior to that he served as Assistant Director of PFD from 2017 to 2023. Jones has more than a decade of experience leading the Boston Public Schools Capital, Strategic Planning, and Facility Management teams. He also served as Chief Operating Officer for the Providence

Public School Department from 2009 to 2012. Jones is a veteran of the United States Air Force, vicecommander of the Massachusetts Wing of the Civil Air Patrol, and is an FAA certified private pilot.

“I am thrilled and grateful to be appointed as the Director of the Public Facilities Department for the City of Boston,” said Carleton Jones, Executive Director of PFD. “It is an honor to have the opportunity to lead such a dedicated and talented team with the support of Rohn MacNulty as Deputy Director. I am committed to continuing our work in enhancing our city’s infrastructure and advancing our 43% of the City’s $4.7 billion capital plan. Our 120+ capital projects will help over a dozen City departments better serve the residents and families of Boston. Thank you to Mayor Wu and Chief Irish for entrusting me with this tremendous responsibility and to our prior Executive Director Kerrie Griffin for her trust and guidance! I’m wishing her great success in her new role!”

Rohn MacNulty will assume the role as the Deputy Director of PFD. MacNulty has been with PFD since 2019 and most recently served as Assistant Director. He is a registered architect with a Masters of Archi-

tecture from Washington University, and is also a certified construction manager. Prior to joining PFD, MacNulty worked at Graham/Meus Architects and for 10 years for the Massachusetts Port Authority where he received numerous awards for projects at Logan Airport and the South Boston Waterfront Transportation Center.

“I am honored to have been appointed as Deputy Director. It is my privilege to support Carleton and the department in our shared mission, particularly in overseeing and advancing construction projects vital to the City’s growth,” said Rohn MacNulty, Deputy Director of PFD. “Thank you, Executive Director Griffin, for your leadership and dedication!”

Jones and MacNulty will work with Chief Irish and across various city departments on several ongoing renovations and construction projects of city facilities, including the new Carter School, Josiah Quincy Upper School, Boston Fire Engine 17, and White Stadium.

Salve Regina Honors:

Jim

Brett, President and CEO

of the New England Council

James T. Brett, President and CEO of the New England Council and lifelong champion for people with disabilities, received an Honorary Degree in Humane Letters. He is a steadfast crusader for the intellectually disabled and an exemplary force for economic, civic, and social change. Brett has led the New England

Council, the nation’s oldest regional business organization, since 1996. The Council is composed of a non-partisan alliance of businesses, academic and health institutions, and public and private organizations throughout New England. The Council is dedicated to promoting economic growth and a high quality of life in the region. Before joining the council, Brett served for 15 years in the Massachusetts House of Representatives.

Brett has been a trusted advisor to three U.S. presidents and is current chair of the President’s Committee for People with Intellectual Disabilities under President Biden. He was recently appointed Chairman of the Governor’s Committee for People with Intellectual Disabilities in Massachusetts, a position he has held

for the past 23 years under five different governors. Additionally, Mr. Brett was appointed by Speaker Nancy Pelosi to represent the U.S. Congress on the National Council on Disability.

Due to years of dedication and commitment to individuals with disabilities and their families, Brett has received 19 Honorary Doctorate Degrees and many leadership and lifetime achievement awards.

Pictured from left to right: U.S. Senator Jack Reed; Jim Brett; and Salve Regina President Kelli J. Armstrong

Guy The Wine What’s In Your Glass?

This just in…. Summer’s back! In case you haven’t noticed, the trees are green, the little kids are wearing shorts and tee shirts and people are grilling again. What it means for wine drinkers is that it’s time to break out the Summer whites! I think that if you have any of the following, you’ll definitely feel that “Summer vibe” ....

Sterling Chardonnay, Napa County, California, ($17.99). Classic Napa Valley, this tasty Chardonnay offers a rich, creamy entry with flavors of ripe pear and apple, vanilla and spice followed by a long, fruity/toasty finish. Enjoy it with a variety of foods, including Caesar salad, fried chicken and fresh fish. 90% barrel fermented.

River Road Chardonnay, Russian River Valley Reserve, 2022, ($19.99).

James Suckling says,” Toast, grilled pineapples and vanilla on the nose. Tasty and toasty with a medium to full body, bright acidity and crisp finish. Drink now.”. I think this one is a natural for the grill- any kind of seafood, especially sauteed shrimp, as well as chicken or seasoned duck.

Matua Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough, New Zealand, ($14.99) Back in 1974, Matua produced New Zealand’s very first Sauvignon Blanc. 10 years later, they were making it in Marlborough. Now, Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc is world famous for its unique, fresh flavors. The first New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc introduced to the market is still as pure as their first batch.

You’ll be met with lemony, citrus notes and a hint of vibrant passionfruit and basil. The palate is fresh and vibrant with concentrated blackcurrant leaf and a hint of classic cutgrass and green melon. So, refreshing, you’ll be left wanting another glass.

Benoit Girard Sancerre, France, ($24.99). Benoit Girard Sancerre offers an aroma of yellow fruits and a touch of flint. Following are flavors of peach, yellow fruits and white flowers with a pleasant mineral and citrus fruit finish. The Girard family has been in the wine business for over 500 years and after your first sip, I think you’ll agree with me that they know what they’re doing.

Abbazia di Novacella 2021 Praepositus Grüner Veltliner Grüner Veltliner (Alto Adige Valle Isarco), ($31.99). Ripe stone and orchard fruits bound out of the glass while subtle hints of dried flowers, spice and wet slate gently follow the upfront fruit notes. The bright and refreshing palate shows lemon zest, apricot, lemongrass, white pepper and very present minerality. The texture of the wine is captivating and adds to the long and impressive finish.

The South Boston Sports Hall of Fame Scholarship Trust Fund announces their program for the year 2024

The Scholarship Fund was founded as a non-profit organization in 1995 and has awarded $411,000 to 249 deserving South Boston students planning to attend college. The nine $2500 scholarship grants are each funded by a variety of organizations and individuals.

New this year will be our 8th Grade scholarship for 8th graders graduating on to high school. We will be offering at least one $2500 scholarship. As in 2023, in addition to the current (9) $2500 scholarships will be

(1) $5000 Scholar/Athlete scholarship named in honor of Ed Buccigross, the longtime trust fund founder who recently passed away. Ed was raised in South Boston and graduated from Boston Latin School and Boston College. He was a U.S. Army Korean War veteran. He was a fine athlete playing quarterback for the South Boston Chippewas, as well as baseball, softball and hockey. He was very generous to his community and was instrumental in founding local scholarship programs to help others. Complete details of each program are described on the scholarship application, which may be picked up at schools, the South Boston Library, the Boys & Girls Club, the Tynan, the Condon, or the Curley Community Centers. You can also download a copy from our Facebook page, South Boston Sports Hall Of Fame

Scholarship Trust Fund. Applications must be received by June 30, 2024 and must be mailed to: Fred Ahern, Chairman

South Boston Sports HOF Scholarship Trust Fund

P.O. Box 236

South Boston, MA 02127 or emailed to:

SouthBostonHallofFame@gmail.com

Some of our amazing sponsors include: Amazon, Massport, the “L” Street Brownies, Folan Waterproof-

ing and Construction of Easton in memory of deceased members of the Folan family, South Boston Youth Hockey Association in memory of John Cunniff, Sona Nichols in memory of Bob Nichols, “BucciChallenge” LLC charity fund, Ed Sheehy in memory of Patricia and Edward Sheehy, Michael Sheehy for the Heightsmen Scholarship in memory of Kevin Dwyer and the Hall of Fame Trust Fund in memory of Ed Buccigross.

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SUMMER STREET PILOT PROGRAM

COMMUNITY OPEN HOUSE

Virtual Public Meeting

JUNE 20

Link: bit.ly/49-51Pub Toll Free: (833) 568 - 8864 Meeting ID: 160 683 8780 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

Project Proponent: Sing Ming Chan

Project Description: The information at this meeting is crucial to you as a City of Boston resident, and stakeholder. Interpreting services are available to communicate the content of these documents at no additional cost to you. If you require translation services, please contact the following: Tyler.C.Ross@boston.gov. The meeting is scheduled for 6/20/2024. Please request interpreting services no later than 5 days before the meeting date. Meeting of the general public to review the proposed 49-51 D st, South Boston project. This meeting will be focused on the proposed 49-51 D st, project. Please note that this is a Public Meeting. The meeting will begin with a 45-minute presentation of the project by the development team, followed by 45-minutes of public Q&A.

Tyler.c.ross@boston.gov

@BostonPlans BostonPlans.org Teresa Polhemus, Executive Director/Secretary

The City of Boston is hosting three open house events for the Summer Street Pilot Program. This is your opportunity to engage directly with the City and share your feedback on the pilot. Your input is vital to shaping the future of Summer Street. Join the City to ask questions, hear updates on the pilot, and enjoy complimentary food and refreshments.

JUNE 11

Can’t make it to a meeting?

Visit boston.gov/summerstreetpilot to learn more and provide feedback via email at transit@boston.gov.

Another Outstanding Southie Family Fun Day 2024!

The MOMS Club of South Boston hosted their 13th annual Southie Family Fun Day last weekend at Marine Park. The event was a phenomenal success with hundreds of families enjoying the

perfect weather. Children’s smiles and laughter could be seen and heard throughout the park. There was magic, music, dancing, balloons, face painting, bubbles, lawn games, princesses and superheroes throughout the entire day. On the other side of the park was Touch A Truck which included construction vehicles, Boston Fire, EMS, DCR and a water station from Boston Water & Sewer. There was something for everyone of all ages.

The Southie Family Fun Day is a much anticipated event in the community every year and the MOMS group deserves a huge shout out for their amazing ability and dedication to hosting and growing the event every year. Well done!

South Boston Catholic Academy News

Celebrating Our Grandparents and Special Friends Day and Our Talented Artists

The students at South Boston Catholic Academy and at the Early Childhood Center recently celebrated a special day with their wonderful Grandparents and Special Friends who had a chance to come and visit with their grandchildren, family and friends and to see the great colorful artwork that our talented artists at South Boston Catholic Academy did at the Annual Art Show. Quoting our Principal, Dr. Helenann Civian...”Celebrating our Grandparents and Special Friends Day is one of my favorite

days.” Here are some famous quotes regarding Grandparents and Special Friends/People in our lives... “Grandparents are a treasure in the family. Please, take care of your grandparents: love them and let them talk to your children!” — Pope Francis. “The best thing to hold onto in life is each other.” —Audrey Hepburn. “I love you right up to the moon—and back.” —Sam McBratney. All the students loved seeing their grandparents, family and special friends who came and had a chance to visit the students in

their classrooms. The students made special cards and colorful drawings telling their grandparents, family and special friends how much they love them.

The Annual Art Show was a big success. The grandparents, families and special friends loved seeing the colorful artwork that all our talented students did such a fantastic job with. A Big Thank you to our very talented Art Teacher, Ms. Valerie Szmurlo, for helping the children with their creative artwork and organizing this impressive Art Show. A shout out to our wonderful 6th graders who welcomed and guided our special visitors around the school.

This event was followed by a School Mass that the grandparents,

families, friends and staff attended. Students from grades 3 through 6 led us at this Mass. They did a wonderful job as Greeters and Readers. K2A students had a special role in bringing up the Gifts to the Altar. Thank you to Mrs. Maureen Bailey for helping the students prepare for this Mass. Our SBCA Children’s Choir directed by the Music Teacher, Mr. Carlo Bunyi and the Parish Music Director and Organist, Ms. Kathy Clancy, provided the beautiful music. Our Pastor, Father Robert Casey and our Parochial Vicar, Father Peter Schirripa were the celebrants at this Mass. New families are welcome to email our admissions team at admissions@sbcatholicadacademy.org for more info. about South Boston Catholic Academy.

St. Peter Academy

Glow Day in Kindergarten with Mrs. Hesek

The Kindergarten Classroom kicked off the Month of June with the annual Kindergarten Glow Party! The students spent the day reviewing Math and ELA concepts they have learned throughout the year while “glowing”. They used highlighter markers with black light to write in

glowing style. The students practiced writing the alphabet and signing their autograph and continued glowing by using glow in the dark dice to work on their math skills building pyramids to equal up to 12. It was a busy day of learning while glowing! GLOW ON KINDERGARTEN! Thank you, Mrs.

Hesek for always making learning fun and extra special!

St. Peter Academy is accepting applications for the 2024-2025 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.

Iknow this now seems like a weekly occurrence, because, well, it is.

The New England Patriots continue their OTA workouts at Gillette Stadium, and every week, new Patriots head coach Jerod Mayo gives a press conference. Given that we were so used to Bill Belichick press conferences, it is somewhat refreshing to see someone new answering questions. And I’m obsessed. So let’s just do it again. Here’s some of Mayo’s weekly press conference from OTA’s:

Q: We’ve been asking you a lot about Drake [Maye] in the time you’ve been here, just because there’s so much interest in his progression. As you stack the days together, what have you observed from his progression?

Jerod Mayo: He’s doing well. He’s headed in the right direction. A lot of times people think it’s this longitudinal, just straight line up to the top, and realistically, it’s up and down, up and down, up and down. But hopefully, you end up still –from left to right – going in the right direction. So, he’s doing well. You guys, I’m sure, will evaluate him today at practice.

Q: What, if anything, has im-

pressed you about Joe Milton?

JM: I think the easy thing to say is his cannon of an arm. But just his energy. He has a natural leadership skill as well. He’s been great for the run.

Q: Jerod, at left tackle, you’ve got Chuks [Chukwuma Okorafor] and you’ve got Caedan [Wallace], kind of both in a similar transition from one side to the other. How much do you see them working with each other, and are they kind of on a similar track right now?

JM: Yeah, they’re on a similar track. Those guys are out there competing, and I would say the one where we look at those guys is versatility. Obviously, we look at Big Mike [Mike Onwenu], saying he has the right side locked down, but these guys are all competing. They’re able to slide to different spots. They’re working out of a sense of abundance where those guys are working together, trying to get better. Once training camp gets here, we’ll see what happens.

Q: Do you feel good about those two at left tackle, or do you kind of maybe want to keep your eye on anyone else?

JM: I mean, I think, look, we’re always trying to bring in good players. Those guys are doing well. We’ll see what happens as the roster

This week,

Danny shared more comments from New England Patriots head coach Jerod Mayo at OTA’s:

continues to play out. Realistically, we’re still early in the process, and training camp will reveal a lot.

Q: With Drake, I’m sure you don’t want to throw everything in the book at him right now. Is there a certain thing you want him to take away from this spring? Maybe if there’s one big thing you want him to learn, sort of, in OTAs?

JM: I think the biggest thing – and this has been the goal not only for Drake, but for everyone – is to learn, have a basic understanding of the fundamentals and the X’s and O’s, build camaraderie and get out of here healthy. That’s the goal for the spring.

Q: Jerod, how would you describe how Alex [Van Pelt], Ben [McAdoo], and T.C. [McCartney] deal with the quarterbacks? Is there a pecking order? Is there someone who has more of a heavier hand?

JM: It’s 100% AVP [Alex Van Pelt], and this is common around the league with offensive coordinators. Usually, offensive coordinators coach the starting quarterback. With that being said, AVP and those guys are doing a good job of making sure the message is the same. But when it’s all said and done, AVP, that’s the heavier hand, to use your words.

Q: I want to go back to what you said about Mike Onwenu on that right side. You said everyone sees him as having it locked down, but that’s not necessarily true. Are you talking more in terms of the competition for that spot, or in terms of him possibly moving to the left side?

JM: Yeah, just more of the competition. One thing about Big Mike, remember he came in here as a guard. So, being able to play guard and tackle is definitely something that gets you paid, and Mike got paid. But it’s more about his versatility.

Q: With Joe Milton, obviously you don’t have to work on arm strength. What do you hope he gets out of the spring? What are you specifically working with him on?

JM: The number one trait with any quarterback, in my eyes – this is, I guess, a philosophical thing –it’s just decision-making. It’s nice to have a big arm, but if you can’t make the right decision, I mean, you’ll be throwing cannonballs to the other side, to the other team. Accuracy, competitiveness, all that stuff is definitely important.

Follow Danny on instagram @ DannyPicard.

What to Watch

PORZINGIS PLANS TO RETURN FOR NBA FINALS

Kristaps Porzingis hasn’t played since Game 4 of the first round of the NBA Playoffs. He’s been dealing with a calf injury. But he’s also part of a Boston Celtics team that hasn’t necessarily needed him.

Now, the C’s will take on the Dallas Mavericks in the NBA Finals, and it will be, by far, their toughest opponent in the playoffs, going up against Luka Doncic and former Celtic Kyrie Irving.

On Tuesday, just two days before Game 1 of the Finals, Porzingis told the media that he believes he’ll be ready by Thursday night.

“I’ve done a lot of work up until this point, done everything needed to get back into playing shape,” said Porzingis after practice on Tuesday. “It’s a couple more days [until Game 1], and I think that could make a difference. Every day gives me a bit more time to get even better.

“It’s been a long process, I’m not going to lie,” later added Porzingis. “It’s been tough to sit out, obviously. But I tried to stay as engaged as I can with the team and be around the team and do my

Tweet of the Week

work and be with the team. It really really did suck, but we’re here now and I’m feeling much better. I put in a lot of hours to get to this point, and I look forward to getting some action on the court.”

As for the potential for rust, nobody on the Celtics seems concerned.

“He’s been playing intense situations his whole life, so I don’t think that will be much of an issue,” Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla told the media. “Obviously you can’t simulate the speed and the intensity of the game, which I think just comes with a little bit of reps, but KP is a great player. I think just because you’ve been out for a month doesn’t mean you have to relearn how to play basketball. He’s been doing a lot of great things for us this season on both ends of the floor with physicality, with intensity. And I expect him to pick up right where he left off. There will be a little bit of rust; just not concerned because of the work that he’s put in and what he’s done in his career and what he’s done in this season for us.”

“He’s been working extremely hard just to get back and to help us in any way he can,” Derrick White told the media. “So obviously these practices and these reps are going to be good. It’s a little bit different than what Al [Horford]

and obviously what Luke [Kornet] and [Xavier Tillman] do, so some aspects might be a little bit different. But any chance you can add a guy like KP, and he’s just willing to do whatever we need, he’ll make it easy.”

“KP essentially did exactly what we needed him to do the entire season,” Jayson Tatum said to the media. “Whether it was punishing switches or space the 5-man, being in the corner. Sometimes that might be going possessions without touching the ball, or it may be when they’re switching, we give him the ball five times in a row. Joe talks about everybody’s just open-mindedness to whatever we’re trying to do. We switch things up a lot and we have so many talented, gifted players on the offensive and defensive end. Everybody’s just got to be open to trying different things. And I give KP a lot of credit, especially for somebody as talented as he is and obviously as tall as he is. A lot of the big guys may be stuck in their ways doing what makes them comfortable. He got outside his comfort zone a little bit and it made us a better team.”

This all seems great. But the fact of the matter is, Porzingis isn’t saying he’s 100 percent playing in Game 1. And even if Porzingis

does play in Game 1, that certainly doesn’t mean he’ll be healthy enough to play in the entire series. Either way, Porzingis feels the buzz.

“It’s incredible, just the energy like, everybody’s buzzing,” said Porzingis. “It’s going to be exciting. Even just seeing the amount of people now, it shows the magnitude of this and what’s on the line. As a team, as an organization, we’re going into this series with full confidence, knowing that no steps were skipped. The goal is to finish the job.”

The Celtics are good enough to finish the job with or without Porzingis. But his presence on the court definitely wouldn’t hurt.