SouthBoston
Can The Carney Be Saved?
Nurses, patients, and public officials shared their reactions after Steward Health Care last Friday announced plans to close two hospitals in Dorchester and Ayer. The embattled private health care company said it will close Carney Hospital in Dorchester and Nashoba Valley Medical Center in Ayer at the end of August after it was unable to find a qualified bidder to buy either hospital. Steward declared bankruptcy earlier this year amid an onslaught of financial issues and scrutiny.
On Monday at a rally held on the edge of Carney’s Dorchester Avenue campus that drew about 200 workers, patients, neighbors, and union organizers State Sen. Nick Collins told the crowd he is demanding that the Governor and Public Health Commission exercise alternate actions available to them to prevent a Carney closure.
“I support any and all actions,
Summer Electric Bills – OUCH!!
So, if the property tax bills from the City of Boston due this month didn’t scare you enough, and now residents are even being charged for the rain water that falls on their property, in come the electric bills from Eversource. Ok, we all expect to pay more in the summertime because people have air conditioning running pretty steady in July. It’s hot and no, it has nothing to do with Climate Change or Global Warming. It’s hot outside because it’s summertime. But when these power bills come in not just higher, but WAY higher, in some cases more than triple the norm, it can send shock waves through the average household which is already being buried by the price of groceries and gas to fill their vehicles and pretty much everything else from clothing to building supplies to the dreaded back to school costs showing up at retail stores.
Though we are not convinced that it would be impossible for Eversource
and other power companies to lower the cost of supplying energy to residential homes, we can’t rule it out either. Profits going to utilities are said to be quite substantial. If that’s true – good for them but not so good for consumers, especially families and senior citizens on fixed incomes. But let’s look at some possibilities for relief for those barely able to make ends meet financially and whose numbers have increased by leaps and bounds, especially under the present governments in place. It was reported this past week that the amount of money Massachusetts has been and will continue to shell out to all the illegal immigrants the Healy Administration has invited to come here has already surpassed the billion-dollar mark with no end in sight. It’s now safe to say that a growing number of people are convinced that this state is giving preference to these new arrivals over its citizens – taxpayers who are footing the bill. Is it fair?
As far as this newspaper is concerned no, absolutely not. Is the Healy Administration moved in the slightest about the financial burden being levied against the citizens/taxpayers of the Bay State? By the administration’s actions and an
obedient fall in line state legislature, it sure doesn’t appear that it is. So let us make a suggestion or two:
Let Eversource and any other power company servicing the Commonwealth, cut back some on their profits and let the state legislature
and the Healy Administration back off on showering the people they have brought here illegally with free housing, healthcare, food, clothing and all the other free perks they are passing out at taxpayer expense – including cash, most of which our own citizens can’t get. Then they can redirect more of that money to taxpayers in a real effort to help pay these outrageously high bills. Sure, there is some money allotted in some cases to some citizens but according to reports coming out, it’s nowhere near what’s going to the migrants.
Now, were guessing that there will be some people who will take issue with this editorial and accuse us of being anti-immigrant. But that would not be accurate. We are very much pro immigrant when it comes to those who come here legally. And to those who still have a problem with our stance we would ask – how many of those not coming illegally will you be taking into your homes and supporting? How many has Governor Healy taken into her home? We will be waiting patiently for an answer.
WInformation Center
hat’s the biggest topic of the week? That’s an easy one. - The 2024 Summer Olympics. Now whenever the Olympics come around, they are of course one of THE most talked about events. But this year, as we all know, the chatter and the interest aren’t about the great athletic events and the hard working athletes themselves who train for years to be selected to represent their countries in front of the world. Oh no, not this year. This year all of the good stuff has been overshadowed by the blasphemous clown show that the organizers came up with to create negative controversy and to attack and mock the faith of 2.4 billion Christians around the world. And as it turned out, it’s not just Christians who are shocked and disgusted by the display, but people of every faith are standing up to condemn what they saw.
As the video of the Opening Ceremonies clearly showed, a group of radicals dressed in hideous costumes were seated at a long table in the exact positions to resemble the Leonardo da Vinci painting of The Last Supper. One person standing up was close by a young female child also seated at the table and he had his male genitalia exposed, there was a large woman with a crown sitting at the center of the table posing as Jesus and then of course there was the scantily clad guy who was painted blue writhing around on the banquet table. Sorry if this description is too graphic for some but you’ve all seen the video and to coin a phrase – ‘It is what it is’.
Then we got to see a bearded lady crawling along a runway, a picture of a woman with a bloody severed head, demons popping out everywhere and a massive array of other satanic
symbolism. This is how they chose to open the Olympics this year. The government of France should hang its head in disgrace. There are some who consider this art, but surveys showed that most people considered it sick trash. But then came the backlash from all over the world – massive backlash so fast and so fierce that the organizers who were at first cocky, defiant and proud of what they did, were caught off guard by the ferocity of it all. Yes, they achieved part of their goal which was to hit the billions of viewers with shock factor and make fun of Christianity which they apparently hate, but when a major sponsor pulled its millions of advertising dollars out with others planning to do the same in protest and a growing boycott of the games materializing in the form of empty seats and angry people leaving in droves, the smug looks started to vanish from the faces of those organizers.
These organizers at first tried to say that what the viewers think they saw wasn’t really what they saw. They claimed that what we all believed to be a mockery of The Last Supper wasn’t that at all. That what it was is a reenactment of an ancient Greek pagan ‘Celebration of Dionysus, the Greek god of fertility, wine and revelry’. Virtually no one was buying that BS. So, then they shifted gears and admitted that well, ok, so it was meant to resemble The Last Supper, but it was never intended to offend, upset or mock any religion or faith. It was meant to show ‘inclusion’. This didn’t fly either. Most people aren’t stupid. They know what they saw, especially when it was so blatant and obvious.
An outraged American from the Midwest made a statement that has gone viral and pretty much speaks to how most people feel. He said the
following in response to all those who took part in this anti-Christian shame ridden display: “Love who you want, dress how you feel. Your choices are not my business. But when you mock my faith, I no longer support your choice”. If the organizers of those opening ceremonies thought they were going to win any points and new support for what they did, it seems to have backfired – big time.
The reaction from around the world has indicated that it has caused a major setback to them. This time they’ve gone too far and
may have crossed a line that can never be uncrossed. And here’s one more thing that is pretty clear in the eyes of most people, the organizers, thinking they were so clever mocking Jesus and Christianity, would not, in a million years have dared to do the same to the name of Mohammad and Islam. Of that we can be certain. And while most French citizens were also disgusted and expressed embarrassment at the blasphemous hideous display, again, the French Government should hang its collective heads in shame for allowing it to happen.
Ciccone
SOUTH BOSTON TODAY
John Ciccone
The
Final Countdown
As we saddle up for the final day of formal sessions and lawmakers inch closer to their midnight(-ish) deadline, there’s a whole lot of uncertainty swirling. Here are the key questions that will guide the next 24 hours:
Will any decisions get postponed to August or beyond?
If lawmakers were to reach agreement on every bill already in negotiation as of this morning, they’d need to process nine bills. There are also four bills both chambers passed but have not yet shuttled to formal talks, and a handful of newer bills that have only passed one chamber. It wouldn’t be shocking to see lawmakers conclude there’s just too much to handle on the final day and punt some topics into the informal-only stretch that begins Thursday.
Which policy riders will survive House-Senate negotiations?
Some ideas only one branch wove
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.
into a bigger bill would carry major impacts — if, of course, backers can get their colleagues across the hall on board. We’re keeping an eye on the economic development bond bill, which could support the construction of an Everett soccer stadium and bring happy hour back to the state. The substance use disorder bill could authorize overdose prevention centers. The housing bond bill could expand boundaries of the Massachusetts Water Resource Authority and force landlords, not tenants, to pay broker’s fees.
Will the Senate support a Boston property tax plan?
On Tuesday, the House passed Boston Mayor Michelle Wu’s proposal that could temporarily shift Boston’s property tax balance. The same day, Senate President Karen Spilka said the Senate hadn’t “debated, discussed or even seen” the measure, which now involves an “agreement” in which Wu
will change her plan’s timeframe, maximum commercial percentage shift, and small business protections via executive order once it’s passed through the Legislature.
Will rising House-Senate tensions hamstring negotiations?
The two top Democrats, Spilka and House Speaker Ron Mariano, are verbally sparring. Both chambers introduced new measures late in the game, and after Mariano said the move showed senators weren’t “serious” about passing bills, Spilka threw those exact words back at him a day later. The personal frustrations on display could be a sign that negotiators will be even more stubborn and uncompromising — or that their bosses will be — during their eleventh-hour talks today.
Remember, legislative rules call for informal sessions only after July 31, which means no roll call votes. Unless lawmakers suspend their own rules, an objection from a single
member can block action in either branch, making it much harder to advance controversial bills that don’t cross the finish line by Thursday.
Parentage bill moves forward
The Senate approved legislation Tuesday that expands who qualifies as a parent under state law, including those who become parents through ways such as birth, adoption, surrogacy, marriage and IVF. The forward motion is seen as a win especially for LGBTQ+ parents, as the bill expands the law in cases where a parent doesn’t have genetic ties to their child. The bill still needs to be put into conference, where lawmakers can negotiate out the differences between House and Senate versions of the proposal.
Nashoba patients fearful about Steward shut down
The Telegram’s Henry Schwan
continued on page 6
Report Says Already Among The Top Five Cities Taxing Homeowners The Lowest
ALincoln Institute of Land Policy report that examined the largest cities in all 50 states found that Boston, which is seeking to shift more of the tax burden onto businesses beyond what is allowed by state law, already taxes homeowners at among the lowest rates in the country, behind just Charleston, South Carolina and Honolulu, Hawaii.
Amid the mayor’s push for higher commercial tax rates and talk of how residents may otherwise be priced out from sky-high taxes, a new report places Boston third among U.S. cities with the most preferential property tax systems for homeowners. The report points to Boston’s high home values and existing tax classification shift — which, per state law, allows cities to shift up to 175% of the property tax burden from resi-
dents to businesses, to provide lower taxes for homeowners — as the factors contributing to its 0.5% effective property tax rate on a median-valued home in 2023.
To provide further residential tax relief, Boston’s mayor and City Council each year typically adopt the maximum residential exemption, which excludes a portion of a qualifying homeowner’s property value from taxation. By comparison, the average effective property tax rate was 1.29% in 2023 for the 53 large cities studied, which included Washington, D.C. and two cities apiece in Illinois and New York since Chicago and New York City property taxes are so different from other parts of those two states, the report states.
Boston was among just eight cities with property tax rates at half the study average or less,
along with Honolulu, Charleston, Salt Lake City, Denver, Nashville, Boise, and Cheyenne, West Virginia. The study also looked at how preferential property tax systems are for homeowners throughout the country, finding that Boston ranked third again, behind just Charleston and Honolulu, in that category.
In Boston, the commercial sector is taxed at a 4.34% higher rate than homeowners, when calculating a commercial-homestead ratio that compares the rate on a $1 million commercial building to a median-valued home. The average commercialhomestead classification ratio among the 53 cities studied was 1.86, the report states.
While Boston gives among the highest preference to homeowners, the commercial property tax rate there is not among the highest in
the country and ranks roughly in the middle of the pack among the study sample. Boston Mayor Michelle Wu filed a home rule petition earlier this year that seeks to temporarily shift more of the tax burden from
continued on page 6
Councilors Flynn and Murphy Hearing To Discuss Boston Police Department Staffing Levels
Boston City Councilors Ed Flynn and Erin Murphy will be filing a hearing order next Wednesday, August 7th to discuss Boston Police Department (BPD) staffing levels. During his time on the Council, Councilor Flynn has consistently advocated for hiring hundreds of additional police officers every year for the next decade to address long standing issues of understaffing. The hearing will seek to bring in officials and key stakeholders to discuss strategies to address this issue.
The Boston Police Department has long faced challenges in understaffing, overstretched resources, and forced overtime for police officers, as well as looming retirements. This not only impacts the public safety of our city, but also the physical and
emotional well-being of our officers and their families. Police understaffing is also exacerbated by voluntary retirement and resignations, as resignations rose from one in 2018 to thirty-six in 2022, and voluntary retirement rose from seventeen in 2018 to 127 in 2022. This means that current officers are mandated to fill in the gaps with forced overtime, which leads to burnout in officers, and potentially negatively impacts their ability to serve.
Moreover, the Boston Municipal Code mandates that after July 1st, 1980, the number of Police Officers on the force shall, at no time, be less than 2,500. It is therefore imperative that the Boston Police Department consistently recruits and retains police officers to stay comfortably above that number, as well as
fostering an environment that allows officers to feel valued while building strong relationships with residents through community policing.
“Having sufficient police staffing levels is critical to help make the streets of Boston safer for all neighbors, and to improve the health and quality of life of our dedicated police officers. The issues of understaffing, mandated overtime and overstretched resources will not be resolved without a commitment to hire hundreds of officers every year for an extended period of time,” said Councilor Flynn.“ In my opinion, it is not okay for officers to be mandated to work excessive hours. This is a public health and public safety issue that we need to address for our residents, our police officers, and their families.”
“An unacceptable risk to individual and public health arises in all of Boston’s neighborhoods when the people who are entrusted with keeping the City safe are overworked and stretched too far,” said Councilor Erin Murphy. “The hiring, retention, and full staffing of our Police Department provide the people of Boston with the highest quality public health and public safety services possible, and those services are essential to ensuring Boston is the world-class city it can be and the world-class city the people of Boston deserve.”
For more information, please contact Councilor Flynn’s office at 617635-3203 and Ed.Flynn@Boston.gov.
Councilors Flynn Files Hearing Order on Crisis at Mass & Cass
Boston City Councilor Ed Flynn will be calling for a hearing at the Council meeting next Wednesday, August 7th in an effort to address both the public safety and public health emergency at the area around Massachusetts Avenue and Melnea Cass Boulevard, known as “Mass & Cass”, as well as the critical need to enhance city response and services. The hearing seeks to bring in stakeholders from city departments, elected offices, and community organizations to discuss strategies to provide support and resources for those in the area of Mass & Cass, as well as for impacted residents and businesses in Roxbury, the South End, Dorchester, and South Boston.
Since the closure of the city’s Long Island recovery campus in the fall of 2014, the opioid crisis
and homelessness have driven people to Mass & Cass, where those battling substance use disorder can seek nearby methadone treatment or a bed at city-run shelters. While the tents are gone, hundreds of people are gathering daily throughout the area, often engaging in open drug dealing, drug use, and other illegal activities throughout the South End, Roxbury, Dorchester, and South Boston.
As violence and illegal activities still continue to impact these neighborhoods, the Boston Police, and the Coordinated Response Team are working with Suffolk County District Attorney’s office and other state agencies to address these issues. Mass and Cass continues to be a humanitarian crisis, and it is impacting the quality of life for residents and businesses, with piles of trash- including used needles and human feces- scattered throughout neighborhoods for miles out.
“I continue to advocate for Mass & Cass to be declared both a public safety and public health emergency as it requires resources at the city, state, and federal levels. We must
immediately arrest individuals breaking the law, committing acts of violence, and showing no regard for human dignity,” said Councilor Flynn. “Back in 2017, I recommended a plan to operate a ferry service to the Long Island campus.
We also need to expedite the rebuilding of the Long Island Bridge and continue to provide substance
use and recovery services as these public safety and quality of life issues continue to impact neighbors and businesses near Andrew Square, Nubian Square, and Clifford Park on a daily basis.”
For more information, please contact Councilor Flynn’s office at 617-635-3203 and Ed.Flynn@ Boston.gov.
The Carney continued from front page including extraordinary action in the form of a state of emergency at the state and city level to keep the Carney open,” said Collins, who added that he wants state legislation passed to give the Department of Public Health receivership power to “provide funding to keep Carney open with enough time to provide for a qualified bidder.” Collins added: “You can’t have a hospital send $25 million in annual rent payment to a parent company that says they operate on a $14 million loss when they bought the property for half of that. That’s disingenuous and it’s wrong, and if it weren’t for this case, we wouldn’t be here today.”
Also on Monday, Councilors Ed Flynn and John FitzGerald called for the Boston City Council to pass a resolution to “declare a public health
Window continued from page 4
emergency in relation to the closure of Carney Hospital, and to take all possible steps necessary to preserve the operations” there. The resolution also “urges the City of Boston and State Government to be prepared that if there are no bidders for Carney hospital, to seize the property by eminent domain and to continue to operate the facility until a permanent operator is found.”
On Wednesday, despite pleas from employees and community members to keep the hospitals open, a bankruptcy judge approved Steward’s plan to close both Carney and Nashoba Valley Hospitals. Company officials said they planned to sell all of Steward’s eight operational hospitals in Massachusetts. Though they found no buyers for Carney and Nashoba Valley, Steward on Friday said it is in “ac-
spoke to Nashoba Valley Medical Center patients about the hospital’s expedited closure set by Steward Health Care last week in Bankruptcy Court — many of whom say they’ve relied on the hospital for decades, are unsure where they’ll be able to seek medical attention once it’s closed, and think the length of travel time to other hospitals will take a toll on emergency services.
Emergency shelter system cost through FY25 to surpass $1B
The new billion-dollar figure is an increase from the $915M estimate that the state has publicized for months, reflecting cost revisions resulting from four overflow shelter sites. The Globe’s Samantha Gross reports that the $1B estimated tab for the next twelve months will equate to almost how much the state has spent on the program in the last 20 months. At this point in time, the state doesn’t have the cash organized to cover that price tag.
Cannabis Control Commission receivership rejected, hearings in fall to address
issues
On Tuesday, co-chair of the Joint Committee on Cannabis Policy, Rep. Daniel Donahue, rejected Inspector General Jeffrey Shapiro’s idea of appointing a receiver to the longfraught Cannabis Control Commission. In a letter to the House Speaker, Donahue said the joint committee is planning to hold public hearings in the fall to revisit the aspects Shapiro finds troubling — like the currently-not-clarified leadership roles within the CCC — and those the committee has also identified as needing to change, like the structural model of the CCC itself.
Mass.
Lottery makes record revenue
Massachusetts Lottery players received the most prize money in history during fiscal year 2024, and the state agency also took in record-setting revenues. The Lottery brought in over $6B in sales revenue in FY24, an increase of a bit under $20K from what was logged in fiscal year 2023.
tive final negotiations” to sell its six other Massachusetts hospitals. Carney traces its history back to 1863 and is currently licensed for 109 beds, according to the state Department of Public Health.
Nurses said patient care will certainly be impacted by the decision to close Carney and Nashoba Valley and also expressed concern for local first responders.
As recently as Tuesday, Gov. Marua Healey told reporters “We have qualified bids for all the hospitals.” Following the announcement, some nurses said Healey had been sending out false signals. “I can’t trust that she actually has this community at the heart as priority one,” Andrews said.
Healey responded to Steward’s plan to close hospitals, saying “This is not over.” She criticized Steward’s “greed and mismanagement” and said of-
ficials “will take all available steps to help facilitate a smooth transition for impacted patients and employees.”
The Massachusetts Nurses Association addressed the planned Carney and Nashoba Valley closures in a statement, saying “These two hospitals are absolutely essential to the lives, health and safety of tens of thousands of people in the communities served by these facilities.” Beyond hospital patients and staff, the nurses association said the closures will ripple across the regional health care landscape as other hospitals absorb new patients once served at Carney or Nashoba Valley. Before the closure takes effect, the nurses association also called on state officials to enforce a law that requires hospitals to notify the state Department of Public Health at least 120 days before any proposed closure.
Wu continued from page 4 homeowners to commercial property owners, beyond the 175% allowed by state law.
MCM Properties
Her petition, which has been heavily criticized by the business sector, seeks a change that would raise that limit to up to 200% next year. The shift would gradually decrease each year before returning to the standard rate in the fifth year.
When testifying for the bill before the Legislature’s Joint Committee on Revenue, the mayor said that if the higher shift were not to be adopted, homeowners could be facing a 33% increase in property taxes next year, which she said may price some residents out of the city.
Wu received pushback on that figure from House Committee Chair Mark Cusack, who said the year-over-year increase would be 16.5%, and that the 33% increase would be seen from the second to third quarter bills.
Nicholas Ariniello, the city’s commissioner of assessing, said the average single-family tax bill was $5,522 with the residential exemption in 2024, and would increase to $6,432 next year, a 16.5% increase, if the legislation were not to pass. The average single-family tax bill with the residential exemption increased by 7.9% this year.
Courtesy of Boston Herald Report.
MAYOR WU ANNOUNCES YOUTH DEVELOPMENT FUND OPEN FOR APPLICATIONS
The City of Boston will invest $1.5 million into community-based youth programming; take steps to immediately provide engaging activities and spaces for Boston’s young people
Mayor Michelle Wu and the City of Boston’s Human Services Cabinet announced applications are now open for the 2024 Youth Development Fund (YDF), a $1.5 million grant program to support non-profit organizations that provide high quality, engaging programming for youth and young adults ages 14-24. Funding will be prioritized for areas that are aligned with the Mayor’s Connect, Learn, Explore commitment to youth. The goal of this grant is to increase the variety of free
youth programming in the City and provide a positive outlet for youth when they’re not in school. Applications are open until 5:00 p.m. on August 19, 2024.
“We’re working to make Boston a city where every young person has access to enriching experiences outside of the classroom,” said Mayor Michelle Wu. “By directing funds to initiatives that support youth programming we are not just investing in the futures of our young people, but in the future of our entire community. Thank you to our Office of Human Services for their work in launching this grant. I can’t wait to see the programs that our partner organizations will offer and all the ways they will bring new and exciting experiences for
Mayor’s Cup Tennis Tournament Begins August 12th
Mayor Michelle Wu and the Boston Parks and Recreation Department are excited to announce the 2024 Mayor’s Cup Tennis Tournament. Athletes ages 8-18 will have the opportunity to battle for “Boston’s Best” in singles and doubles tennis. “We are proud to continue this tradition and celebrate the talent and sportsmanship of the young athletes in our city of champions,” said Mayor Michelle Wu. “The Mayor’s Cup Tennis Tournament is a wonderful opportunity to activate our parks with healthy competition and friendly rivalry.”
The tournament will kick off on Monday, August 12 at 9:30 a.m. with the games concluding on Thursday, August 15. Matches will take place at Carter Playground Tennis Courts, 709 Columbus Ave. Divisions are as follows: 8U singles, 10U singles, 12U doubles and singles, 14U doubles and singles,
18U doubles and singles. Registration is now open on boston.gov/ parks-sports. The Boston Parks and Recreation Department presents the Mayor’s Cup Tennis Tournament in partnership with the Sportmen’s Tennis Club and Tenacity. P&G Gillette is the official sponsor of this year’s tournament.
“Youth sports are such a meaningful part of summer in Boston,” said Parks Commissioner Ryan Woods. “We are thrilled to host this year’s Mayor’s Cup Tennis Tournament and hope you will come to cheer on the young athletes at Carter Playground” For more information about Boston’s Parks please visit Boston.gov/parks. Stay updated with news, events, and design and construction work in Boston Parks by signing up for our email list at bit.ly/Get-ParksEmails and following our social channels @bostonparksdept on X, Facebook, and Instagram.
our young people.”
This year, the Youth Development Fund will support nonprofit youth-serving organizations through two tracks of funding –one track for small, emerging organizations and another track for larger, established organizations. Those chosen for the emerging awards will be invited to participate in the Emerging Organization Learning Community, a series of free training and capacitybuilding workshops. This will be the second year that the Mayor’s Office of Human Services has offered the Learning Community.
“I am excited that we are able to partner with so many youth development organizations to offer a diverse array of programming,” said Human Services Chief José
F. Massó. “We want every family in Boston to be able to find fun, engaging, high quality programs in their neighborhood.”
The Emerging Leader Grant will support organizations that have an annual operating budget of $200,000 or less and all awards
continued on page 12
Guy The Wine Cool Off
It’s hard to believe that August is here, but as we head into the last leg of another summer, something that remains a constant is the need to cool off. I think you’ll find some of the following will be a great help in achieving just that… Char Vale Chardonnay, Single Vineyard, Caneros ($45.00) is the epitome of Russian River quality. Sourced from a single vineyard in the famous Carneros region of Sonoma County, the 2017 Char Vale Chardonnay showcases the cool climate fruit,
with the scent of green apple, allspice, and white jasmine. The palate is vibrant with layers of fresh apple, stone fruits, hints of white pepper, cinnamon, and clove, ending with a round butterscotch finish. This wine is ready to drink now but will hold well for the next 4 to 5 years.
Dutton Estate, 2021 Rosé of Pinot Noir, Blushing Sisters ($30.00). This wine is a rose color that presents a medley of aromas, peach, melon and fresh strawberry and raspberry. The aromas in the glass
follow on the palate. White peach flesh and strawberry take the lead as pink grapefruit and cantaloupe follow behind with lychee nut and light mineral complexities. This is a bright, crisp rosé that will hold up to any backyard party or poolside chat. Ramey Chardonnay Russian River, 2018, ($35.99) is a wine that is blended from several of the area’s estates, providing a rich, lush juice filled with creamy, buttery note and offers a full, long finish.Wine Enthusiast calls it”An incredible showcase for the appellation, combining grapes from the producer’s estate, Westside Farms with Dutton, Woolsey Road and Rochioli Allen, among others. Together it is broadly floral, earthy and richly integrated...”. This wine is very Burgundian, both in its style and longevity; it’s expected to be at its peak for the next 4-6 years. Try it with any shellfish, grilled white meat or Fruites de Mer. You won’t soon forget this one.
Claude Manciat 2022 MaconVillages, Burgundy, ($17.99).
I’m constantly amazed with the pure expression of Chardonnay coming from this region of Burgundy. Ripe, fleshy, apples and citrus, warmed cream and just a hint of nuttiness. Really easy to drink and always a great accompaniment with roast chicken or white fish.
The Inman Family 2021 Endless Crush Rose, OGV, ($40.00) is a quintessential summer wine - beautiful, pale, delicate pink, crisp and refreshing. The 2021 Endless Crush dances on the palate. The palate begins with an intense ripe fruit and sweet floral expression echoing the nose with honeysuckle, fresh cut ruby red grapefruit, orange blossom, sweet strawberry and watermelon. The wine has refreshing acidity and is completely dry. This rose is elegant yet very playful on the palate as it concludes with a dry and pleasing hint of tannin on the finish. Try it with oysters on the half shell, scallops fried in butter and Sauvignon Blanc and just about any of your own favorite seafood dishes.
The Boston Accent Confuses AI, Survey Finds
• Survey reveals challenges of using voice recognition AI with various accents.
• The southern accent identified as the most challenging.
• Infographic included.
Some might say that AI’s new voice recognition technology has improved our lives somewhat; now we don’t even need to touch a screen or type out a message, we can just shout out a question, statement or command to our virtual assistant of choice - from the iPhone’s faithful Siri, to OpenAI’s ChatGPT - and the answer will be provided without even having to lift a finger. That is, of course, if they can actually understand what you’re saying in the first place…
Most AI’s accents are generalized American, easily understandable by most. But what happens when you’re the one they can’t understand? Guide2Fluency.com, a language learning platform, surveyed 3,000 Americans to find out how AI understands a variety of accents across the country. The 10 most misunderstood accents are:
#1 Southern
The research found, perhaps unsurprisingly, the Southern accent was revealed as the least understood in the US - is it the use of the word ‘Ayuh’ that the technology doesn’t seem to get? Have you ever asked your device to find the nearest yoger class?
#2 New York City
New York City’s accent was revealed as the second most misunderstood accent by AI across the country. Imagine asking your virtual assistant to find the best “dawg” (dog) park in “Manhatt’n” (Manhattan), or to give you directions to “Toidy-toid and Toid” (Thirty-third and Third).
#3 New Jersey
New Jersey’s accent, close to New York City’s, is the third most misunderstood. Navigating to “Joisey Shore” (Jersey Shore) or finding a good “wooder ice” (water ice) spot can leave AI baffled. Common phrases like “down the shore” or the local “toozdee” (Tuesday) weather forecast often don’t translate well..
#4 Texan
Y’all better believe that the Texan accent is the fourth most misunderstood by AI. When you’re drawling out a question of where to “warsh” (wash) your truck before heading to the “feedstore”, don’t be surprised if ChatGPT misunderstands you.
#5 Boston
Coming in at 5th, Bostonians face challenges with their distinctive dropped ‘r’s. Requests about parking a “cah” (car) near the “Gahden” (TD Garden) or checking the “T” (subway) schedule often led to AI misinterpretations.
#6 Appalachian
The Appalachian accent poses a unique challenge for AI. Adding “maters” (tomatoes) and “taters” (potatoes) to a shopping list or finding a recipe for “leather britches” (dried green beans) often confuses voice assistants.
#7 Long Island
The Long Island accent, coming in at 7th, can be quite distinct from its NYC neighbor. Try asking your AI to check the LIRR (Long Island Rail Road) schedule to “Lawn Guyland City” (Long Island City).
#8 California Valley accent
In eighth place is the California Valley accent, like, totally. When you’re saying “Oh my God” or “whatever,” AI might think you’re in distress or needing customer service. And if you ask for “froyo” (frozen yogurt), don’t be surprised if it suggests a yoga studio instead. AI just doesn’t get the Valley vibe.
#9 Miami
The Miami accent, a unique blend of Southern American English and Cuban Spanish influences, comes in at 9th. Try asking your AI to find the best “cafecito” (Cuban coffee) spot on “Calle Ocho” (8th Street)
#10 New Orleans
Rounding out the top ten is the New Orleans accent, with its rich blend of French, Creole, and Southern influences. When you’re asking for “beignets” (pastries) or directions to the “Quarter” (French Quarter), AI might suggest a bakery in Paris or think you’re talking about fractions. It’s a gumbo of confusion!
Credit Guide2Fluency.com
From The Office of Neighborhood Services
South Boston Liaison Lydia Polaski
Here you will find an update on development + transportation proposals in the neighborhood, as well as BPDA events. Please share this information with your networks and neighbors.
SUMMER STREET PILOT PROGRAM
The City of Boston has concluded open house forums for the Summer Street Pilot Program. Please feel free to continue to engage with the City and share your feedback via email at transit@boston.gov. Visit boston.gov/summerstreetpilot to stay up to date.
SOUTH BOSTON TRANSPORTATION ACTION PLAN
South Boston Transportation Action Plan (SBTAP) Draft Recommendations Report
The draft recommendations include proven strategies and people-first improvements to eliminate severe and fatal traffic crashes and create a safer and more efficient network for all modes of transportation—walking, biking, transit, and vehicles.
The SBTAP project team invites public comments and questions regarding the Draft Recommendations Report. Please feel free to email comments to SouthBostonTAP@Boston.gov.
ABUTTER’S MEETINGS
Please note that abutter’s meeting information can also be found at https://www.boston.gov/events.
641 E Eighth St (NEW)
Proposal: Create an addition to the existing roof structure. Currently, there is a roof deck and head house. The permit seeks to add a living space of around 650 sq ft with outdoor deck space for Unit #302.
Time: Aug 8, 2024 06:30 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Join Zoom Meeting: https://us06web. zoom.us/j/84775764593
Meeting ID: 847 7576 4593
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850 Summer St / Radiate Wellness (NEW)
Proposal: Change occupancy of what is known to be suite #206 (aka#5) from office use to a professional office (Yoga / fitness studio)
Time: Aug 12, 2024 06:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Join Zoom Meeting: https://us06web. zoom.us/j/84455513491
Meeting ID: 844 5551 3491
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200 Seaport Blvd: Daily Provisions / Ci Siamo (NEW DATE)
Proposal: New Restaurant all alcohol
license transfer Time: Sep 16th, 2024 06:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada) (Zoom Meeting Information Forthcoming)
ZONING BOARD OF APPEAL HEARINGS
Please note that the ZBA board will call on members of the public to testify for each proposal; you can share your thoughts in that forum.
164 Old Colony Ave. South Boston 02127
Appeal Type Zoning
BOA App# BOA1576978
Hearing Date 8/13/2024
Project Description: ERECT NEW 4 STORY UNIT RESIDENTIAL BUILDING WITH BALCONIES ELEVATOR INCLUDED DEMOLISH EXISTING STRUCTURE ON SEPARATE PERMIT ePlan 5 w GARAGE PARKING SPACES
175 F ST South Boston 02127
Appeal Type Zoning
BOA App# BOA1596915
Hearing Date 8/13/2024
Project Description: Erect new 3 1 2 story 9 unit residential building with garaged parking 6 vehicles on newly created 750sqft lot Building features private roof decks basement amenity space balconies Demolish existing structure under separate permit See also combination permits ALT1571658 ALT1571663 ePlan 4 Stories per code
22 Mitchell ST South Boston 02127
Appeal Type Zoning
BOA App# BOA1595669
Hearing Date 8/13/2024
Project Description Change occupancy from Single family to 2 Family Add garden level unit per plans new MEP lower rear deck stairs Applying zoning denial Eplans filed
457 to 469A W Broadway South Boston 02127
Appeal Type Zoning
BOA App# BOA1605291
Hearing Date 8/13/2024
Project Description: Interior Fit out Dental Space Tend 457 West Broadway Use is conditional so ZBA required
88 to 90 B ST South Boston 02127
Appeal Type Zoning
BOA App# BOA1598851
Hearing Date 8/13/2024
Project Description: Extension continued on page 12
National Parks of Boston Names Liza Stearns New Deputy Superintendent Compass On The Bay Summers On The Lawn Concert Come On Down!
National Parks of Boston Superintendent Michael Creasey has named longtime National Park Service leader Liza Stearns as the new Deputy Superintendent.
“Liza’s more than thirty years of National Park Service experience, leadership acumen, and seamless ability to engage staff and partners make her the best choice as the next National Parks of Boston Deputy Superintendent,” said Creasey.
“I am honored to step into the role of Deputy Superintendent for National Parks of Boston,” said Stearns. “As we look ahead to the 250th anniversary of the founding of our nation in 2026— and the many revolutionary turning points and associated events leading up to it—I look forward to working with the NPS team, partners, and the community to activate sites and welcome visitors from around the corner and around the world to their parks and to Boston—a national park city.”
Stearns began her career with the National Park Service in 1985 as a seasonal Park Ranger for Women’s Rights National Historical Park in the Finger Lakes region of New York. She was subsequently hired as an Education Specialist, then Program Manager, for parks in the northeast, including Lowell National Historical Park; Frederick Law Olmsted National Historic Site; Longfellow House-Washington’s Headquarters National Historic Site; and Boston Harbor Islands National and State Park. Stearns was selected to join a team that developed the concept and organizational structure for the current National Parks of Boston—three
collectively administered national park units. She joined the National Parks of Boston staff in 2015 and most recently served as the Director of Visitor Engagement, Education & the Arts. She has been nationally recognized for her work in place-based teaching and learning, and as an innovator in partner- and communityengaged planning and activation of national park sites and stories.
Stearns holds a Bachelor of Arts from Oberlin College in Gender Roles and Expressive Culture and a Master of Arts in Intercultural Relations from Lesley University. A Boston resident since 2001, she and her husband live in the Roslindale home where they raised their daughter.
Stearns spends her free time digging in her garden, walking their dogs, and planning her next hometown adventure in the Finger Lakes, from sailing to climbing waterfalls.
About the National Parks of Boston
The National Parks of Boston is a collection of three National Park Service sites – Boston National Historical Park, Boston African American National Historic Site, and Boston Harbor Islands National and State Park. Established by individual legislation and for designated purposes, the three units have come together under a unified organizational umbrella to collaborate in ways that celebrate our cultural heritage, reconnect people to history and nature, and provide outdoor recreation opportunities on land and on the water. For more information, visit: www.nps.gov/ bost, www.nps.gov/boaf, and www. bostonharborislands.org.
Acoustic Concert with Gregory Peters at Compass on the Bay August 1, 2024, 6:00 pm at Compass on the Bay Assisted Living and Memory Support Community, 1380 Columbia Road, South Boston. Join us for our Summers on the Lawn Concert Series as we listen to Gregory Peters and Raindrop Avenue!
Music with Matt Browne at Compass on the Bay August 8, 2024, 6:00 pm at Compass on the Bay Assisted Living and Memory Support Community, 1380 Columbia Road, South Boston. Join us for our Summers on the Lawn Concert Series as we host folk musician Matt Browne!
Concert by Jeffrey Folmer at Compass on the Bay August 15, 2024, 6:30 pm at Compass on the Bay Assisted Living and Memory Support Community, 1380 Columbia Road, South Boston. Join us for our Summers on the Lawn Concert Series as we listen to original music by Jeffrey Folmer!
Rock Out with Richie Bern at Compass on the Bay August 22, 2024, 6:00 pm at Compass on the Bay Assisted Living and Memory Support Community, 1380 Columbia Road, South Boston. Join us for our Summers on the Lawn Concert Series as we Rock Out with Richie Bern!
Tim Perry Rocks at Compass on the Bay August 29, 2024, 6:00 pm at Compass on the Bay Assisted Living and Memory Support Community, 1380 Columbia Road, South Boston. Join us for our Summers on the Lawn Concert Series as we listen to the sounds of Tim Perry!
Hearts, Hugs & Hope Alzheimer’s Support Group at Compass on the Bay August 29, 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 617-268-5450 or email Program Director Erin Bollinger at ebollinger@compassonthebay. com for more information and to register by August 26.
Deputy Superintendent of National Parks of Boston Liza Stearns
Photo Credit: NPS Photo/Celena Illuzzi
Aquarium release 9 rehabilitated loggerhead Kemp’s Ridley turtles into Cape ocean.
Staff from the New England Aquarium and its Anderson Cabot Center for Ocean Life released nine sea turtles off Cape Cod over the past week.
After months undergoing rehabilitative care at the New England Aquarium, nine endangered and threatened sea turtles are back in ocean waters off Cape Cod after fully recovering from their lifethreatening injuries.
Loggerhead, green, and Kemp’s ridley sea turtles are all threatened or endangered species, facing threats including fisheries interactions, climate change, ocean pollution, and degradation of their habitats. Rescue and rehabilitation efforts help to conserve this species.
Aquarium staff, volunteers, and interns have a tradition of naming the turtles receiving long-term care. The turtles released this past week are:
• “Zinnia” (#269, Green) – Stranded on November 29, 2023
• “Birds of Paradise” (#761, Loggerhead) – Stranded on January 6, 2024
• “Shooting Star” (#601, Kemp’s Ridley) – Stranded on December 12, 2023
• “Pansy” (#701, Kemp’s Ridley) – Stranded on December 21, 2023
• “Candytuft” (#129, Kemp’s Ridely) – Stranded on November 20, 2023
• “Poppy” (#468, Kemp’s Ridley) – Stranded on December 10, 2023
• “Sweet Everlasting” (#659, Kemp’s Ridley) – Stranded on December 11, 2023
• “Honeysuckle” (#659, Kemp’s Rid-
ley) – Stranded on December 14, 2023
• “Artichoke” (#748, Loggerhead) – Stranded on January 5, 2024
These turtles spent several months at the Aquarium’s Sea Turtle Hospital in Quincy, MA, undergoing treatment for hypothermia-related conditions including pneumonia, dehydration, and emaciation, all
results of being unable to regulate their body temperature in the cold waters of Cape Cod Bay last fall and winter. After physical examinations, staff veterinarians cleared the sea turtles to return to Nantucket Sound off West Dennis Beach. Scientists from the Aquarium’s
continued on page 12
VIRTUAL IAG AND PUBLIC MEETING
49-51 D ST SOUTH BOSTON
Register: bit.ly/49DIAGPub
Toll Free: (833) 568 - 8864
Meeting ID: 161 742 6816
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 8/7/2024. Please request interpreting services no later than 5 days before the meeting date. Meeting of the IAG and general public to review the proposed 49- 51 D St South Boston.
This meeting will be focused on the proposed project. Please note that this is a combined IAG and Public Meeting. The meeting will begin with a 30-minute presentation of the project by the development team, followed by a 45-minute discussion of the IAG, followed by 45-minutes of public Q&A.
Mail to:
Phone: Email:
Website: bit.ly/457flF6
will come with technical assistance and capacity building to help smaller organizations develop the skills needed to grow the program. These grantees will also be partnered with a mentor organization that can provide coaching in non-profit leadership.
“The Youth Development Fund and the overwhelming support I received from the Office of Human Services were invaluable,” said FY ‘24 grantee, Benjamin Diaz, founder of Fatherly Justice Association. “The lessons I learned over the last six months through the Emerging Organizations Learning Community are truly important to Fatherly Justice Association Corp and myself. I will always value the long-lasting partnerships that I was able to find with my fellow grantees.”
Larger organizations, those with a budget greater than $200,000 but less than $5 million, are eligible for the Established Organization track. This grant opportunity is available to medium-to-large-sized youth development organizations with a strong track record of engaging young people and achieving successful outcomes. Grants in this category can go up to $30,000.
This year, the Youth Development Fund grants focus on five categories of programming that are consistent with Mayor Wu’s Connect, Learn, Explore commitment to providing opportunities for youth to explore and discover their passions. Organizations that present programming in the following areas will be prioritized:
* Sports, including swimming and biking
* Gardening, urban farming, and culinary arts
* Arts, including both visual and performing arts
* Other Youth development programming
In FY24, the YDF supported 88 grantees, including programming in every neighborhood that spanned sports, arts, academic support, after school programming, and entrepreneurship. Collectively, the FY 2024 YDF grantees served approximately 7,500 youth across Boston.
existing roof deck New size 36 x 13 new structural framing to be divided into each respective unit ePlan
Roof Deck Replacement Railings
PT WOOD Decking boards TREX
SELECT 6 FAMILY 1633 2006
147 W Eighth ST South Boston 02127
Appeal Type Zoning
BOA App# BOA1606982
Hearing Date 8/22/2024
Project Description: Enlarge existing single family house
31 Jenkins ST South Boston 02127
Appeal Type Zoning
BOA App# BOA1621505
Hearing Date 8/27/2024
Project Description: Erect vertical rear additions with balconies Change legal occupancy from three family dwelling to four Install new code compliant egress windows in basement correct violation V6912767
157 O ST South Boston 02127
Appeal Type Zoning
BOA App# BOA1599310
Hearing Date 8/27/2024
Project Description: Change occupancy to single family. Convert an existing two dwelling. Renovate interior, expand rear as well add roof deck headhouse. Basement will be finished included as part of proposed living space.
BPDA EVENTS // SOUTH BOSTON
49-51 D STREET RESIDENTIAL
PROJECT IMPACT ADVISORY GROUP & PUBLIC MEETING
Date: August 7th
Time: 6-8pm
Location: Virtual Information: https://www.bostonplans.org/news-calendar/ calendar/2024/08/07/49-51-d-streetresidential-project-impact-advisory
Aqurium continued from page 11
research arm, the Anderson Cabot Center for Ocean Life, work with the Animal Care team to tag some of the turtles for post-release monitoring. The tags collect information about the turtles’ behavior, habitat-use, and survivorship which helps inform sea turtle conservation and protection efforts, especially in New England where little is known about these species. This season, the team is using a combination of acoustic and satellite tags for real-time data and long-term tracking; some of the turtles can be followed on the Aquarium’s Sea Turtle Tracker page. This work is permitted by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
“As we complete our fourth release of the season, it’s a great reminder of why we do this work,” said Linda Lory, Rescue and Rehabilitation Manager at the Aquarium. “Having spent months with these animals, it is the outcome we all hope for – seeing them return to the waters off the Cape.”
During the 2023 cold-stunning season, the Aquarium treated 394
live sea turtles that were rescued from the shores of Cape Cod in November and December by staff and volunteers with Mass Audubon’s Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary. Getting these turtles back to health requires a collaborative effort between biologists, veterinarians and researchers, all of whom work tirelessly with the turtles during the rehabilitation effort and continues for some, even after their release. In addition to Mass Audubon’s Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, the Aquarium works closely with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Fisheries Service and the nonprofit organization Turtles Fly Too to save the sea turtles, many of which are transferred to partner organizations across the country to continue rehabilitation to clear up space in the Sea Turtle Hospital to allow for care of additional incoming stranded turtles. There are 11 turtles remaining at the Aquarium’s Quincy facility, in hopes that all will be released off Cape Cod this summer once medically cleared.
Wu Development continued from page 7
ONS continued from page 9
South Boston Catholic Academy News SBCA’s Summer Camp Fun!
We hope that everyone is having a wonderful summer! As you can see from the photos, it has been another wonderful and fun summer at South Boston Catholic Academy’s Summer Camp this past June and July and we
are looking forward to continuing to have a fun time in August, too!
The children are enjoying being with old friends and new friends, meeting and talking with wonderful people, such as, our First Responders, our frontline warriors, our police
officers and firefighters. We are truly grateful for their heroic actions that speak volumes about the many different ways they are committed to serving our community. The children are also having a great time working on fun summertime projects, playing indoor and outdoor games, and enjoying the great outdoors. “Happiness is a summer breeze, sand between your toes, and your best friend
by your side.” – Unknown...This quote celebrates the joys of summer friendship and camaraderie. Whether building sandcastles, playing games, or sharing ice cream cones, summer is best enjoyed with friends by your side. New families are welcome to email our admissions team at admissions@sbcatholicadacademy.org for more info. about South Boston Catholic Academy.
Football is almost here.
The Hall of Fame preseason game is this week, which means next week is the first week of the New England Patriots’ preseason schedule. The Pats will host the Carolina Panthers next Thursday, Aug. 9.
It’s still crazy to think this will be the first season without Bill Belichick as the Patriots’ head coach in a long, long time. Jerod Mayo is now calling the shots, and so, I wanted to share his first training camp press conference:
Q: Did everyone report today?
JEROD MAYO: Everyone is here, everyone is here. I’m happy about that. These guys are ready to rock, it’s a good thing.
Q: What are your expectations for the first three-to-five days of camp? Is it judging where guys are relative to where they were when they left?
JM: Yeah, the first three-to-five days is really about seeing what these guys have done during the last four or five weeks when they weren’t here. I would also say to see what they retained from a mental aspect of some of the scheme things that we talked about earlier. [phone rings]
You know what happens in the squad room? This is even when I was a player. Phones will go off sometimes, and everyone will just start coughing. I guess that’s team camaraderie. None of you guys care about each other, you guys need to have some camaraderie as a media group.
Q: Davon Godchaux and Matthew Judon have expressed varying levels of displeasure about their situations. What’s the team’s relationship?
JM: Look, the relationship is still good, at least from my perspective. I know that their teammates definitely respect them. Those are valuable pieces of this organization and they’ve done a lot for us. Hopefully we can get something done and those guys are here. I want them here, Eliot [Wolf] wants them here, the team wants them here. There is a business aspect to everything though.
Q: As you were planning for training camp and putting things on paper and trying to organize things, did you come across anything that you said, ‘I didn’t realize the head coach had to do that?’
JM: There are a few things from a scheduling standpoint. It’s been great having a bunch of new coaches in here that I can lean on and obviously the coaches that we’ve had
This week, Danny shared his thoughts on the New England Patriots’ training camp:
in the past that are still here. There really wasn’t anything that was huge like that, where I’m like, ‘Wow! That’s different.’ But it’s been good.
Q: With Godchaux and Judon, does it feel like something will have to get done to keep them here?
JM: Look, this is their first day back. This is probably a question for tomorrow. At the same time, I will reiterate that we want those guys here. We’re going to do everything possible to keep those guys. I think it’s good for the organization and hopefully it works out.
Q: In the spring, we asked a lot of questions about quarterbacks and reps. Can you provide any sort of clarification at this point on the calendar of who might be the starter and who is number two?
JM: Yeah, coming out of the spring, I don’t think there’s any doubt Jacoby [Brissett] is the starting quarterback at this point in time. We can look at these other quarterbacks on the roster, at the same time, it’s about competition. When we get out on the field this summer, with the pads on, we’ll see how it all plays out. Coming out of the spring, I think it’s clear that Jacoby is the most pro-ready guy we have. He’s played a lot of football.
Q: Do you guys still plan on carrying four quarterbacks?
JM: It’s always a conversation about, do we move this person here? Do we move that person there? We’re always going to take the mindset of we’re going to do what’s best for the organization and we’re going to try to get those guys reps so they can compete. I don’t know if that means four or three, honestly, right now we have four quarterbacks and those guys will go out there and practice today.
Q: What’s your overarching message in front of the team when speaking to them in the team room?
JM: The overarching message, I would say it’s about competition. It’s about competition and it’s also about building camaraderie and knowing what to do. I’ve learned a lot of principles here from Bill [Belichick], and being smart, tough and dependable is definitely something that I definitely think makes a good team. That’s still part of my message to the rest of the guys, but when it’s all said and done, it’s about competition and going out there and beating the men across from you.
Follow Danny on instagram @ DannyPicard.
SPORTS TODAY
RED SOX SIGN CORA TO EXTENSION Tweet of the Week
With just two months left in the MLB regular season, the Boston Red Sox are in the AL Wild Card hunt, and made several acquisitions at this week’s trade deadline.
But the organization also made another move. They gave manager Alex Cora a new deal.
Cora — whose deal was set to expire after this season — and the Red Sox agreed to a three-year, $21.75 million extension, keeping him in Boston through the 2027 season. He’s now the second highest-paid manager in baseball.
Here’s the full press release from the team:
BOSTON, MA—The Boston Red Sox today agreed with Manager Alex Cora on a three-year contract extension that spans the 2025-27 seasons.
“I had a tremendous amount of respect for Alex long before I took this job; that respect has only grown these last several months,” said Red Sox Chief Baseball Officer Craig Breslow. “He is an incredible people connector, something I have enjoyed watching firsthand. He has embraced Boston’s passionate fans and we share a desire to win as much as they do, both in 2024 and in the future. I’m happy to be
able to extend our commitment to Alex, and I look forward to our partnership continuing to grow. I congratulate him, Angelica, and their family.”
“Today is about the CoraFeliciano family,” said Cora. “We love Boston and are very comfortable here. The Red Sox gave us a chance back in 2017 and doubled down on us prior to the 2021 season, and I’m happy to say our future is here as well.
I’d like to thank John Henry, Tom Werner, Mike Gordon, Sam Kennedy, and Craig Breslow for their confidence in me. I’m excited about not only where we are as an organization, but also where we are going.”
One of 48 managers in the franchise’s history, Cora, 48, has won two World Series titles with Boston, one as a player in 2007 and another as a manager in 2018. Currently in his sixth season as manager, he has recorded a 494-417 (.542) record. His 494 wins rank fourth in franchise history, while his .542 winning percentage ranks fourth among the 13 individuals to manage at least 500 games with the Red Sox. He is one of only six individuals to manage at least six seasons with the Red Sox, joining Joe Cronin (13),
Terry Francona (eight), Mike Higgins (eight), Bill Carrigan (seven), and Jimmy Collins (six).
Named the 47th manager in Red Sox history on October 22, 2017, Cora in 2018 led Boston to a franchise-record 108 regular-season wins, an American League East title, an 11-3 record in the Postseason, and a World Series championship. After a 2019 season that featured an 84-78 record, the club and Cora mutually parted ways on January 14, 2020. On November 6, 2020, the Red Sox and Cora agreed to a two-year contract through the 2022 season with a two-year club option for the 2023 and 2024 seasons, an option the club exercised on November 22, 2021.
In 2021, Cora led the Red Sox to a 92-70 record in the regular season, including a Major League-best 47 come-frombehind wins. Boston advanced to the American League Championship Series, after defeating the New York Yankees in the AL Wild Card Game and the Tampa Bay Rays in the AL Division Series. Following consecutive 78-84 seasons in 2022 and 2023, the Red Sox went 54-47 in their first 101 games of 2024, recording the majors’ best record from May 19July 14 (31-18, .633).
Cora has led the Red Sox to a 17-8 Postseason record, including 5-0 in potential series-clinching games. He is one of only six managers to lead the Red Sox to multiple Postseason appearances, joining Bill Carrigan (191516), Joe Morgan (1988, ’90), Jimy Williams (1998-99), Terry Francona (2004-05, ’07-09), and John Farrell (2013, ’16-17).
During his playing career with the Red Sox (2005-08), Cora batted .252 (176-for-698) in 301 games, splitting time primarily between second base and shortstop. He was part of Boston’s Division Series roster in 2005 and appeared in four games during the club’s 2007 World Series title run, including two games in the Championship Series and two in the Fall Classic. He also served as the Red Sox’ starting shortstop in three games during the 2008 Postseason.
Cora resides in Caguas and has four children: Jeriel, Camila, Xander, and Isander. His older brother, Joey, played parts of 11 Major League seasons with the San Diego Padres (1987, 198990), Chicago White Sox (199194), Seattle Mariners (1995-98), and Cleveland (1998), and is currently the third base coach for the Detroit Tigers.
SBT Staff
