Key Dates and How To Choose the Right Health Insurance Plan
Open enrollment for health insurance in 2024 is the designated period each year when you can elect, renew, or make changes to your coverage without a qualifying life event. The open enrollment period for 2024 began on November 1, 2024, and ends on January 15, 2025, with variations depending on the state you are enrolling in.
When it comes to health insurance, you want the best coverage for your needs. Whether you’re updating your employer-sponsored insurance plan, comparing marketplace plans or enrolling in Medicare, understanding 2024 open enroll-
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EDITORIAL
If there was ever any question that politically, Massachusetts is out of touch and out of step with most of the rest of America in so many ways and even with a rapidly growing number of its own voters, the recent election results should help put those doubts to rest. And particularly with regard to being hesitant to cooperate with I.C.E.(Immigration and Customs Enforcement). And it’s not just Governor Healy and the radical progressives that seem to hold sway in the state legislature. Leftist elected officials in Boston and in other Bay State cities and towns are just as much
a part of the problem. Healy makes no attempt to hide her contempt for the incoming Trump Administration and her willingness to ‘go to war’, to offer no help in deporting illegal immigrants; including those who are known violent criminals. In fact, in some cases, when they have been apprehended, they’ve been released back into the public even when asked by ICE to hold them in jail. She proudly states that she will not allow the Massachusetts State Police to assist I.C.E in its effort to catch, arrest and deport these criminals. So the dedicated members of ICE will have
to do it alone. And do it they can, they will and they are. News reports this week accompanied by live video have shown ICE Agents rounding up criminal illegal’s in and around Boston. One report showed just one morning’s work as they collared and hauled away alleged criminals who absolutely should be taken off the streets and away from the public. Here is just a short list of that morning’s work that highlights the kind of criminals that some officials seem to have no problem letting roam free.
The first one is said to have committed rape of a child under the age of 14. Another
was arrested for raping a child Over the age of 14. They brought in a member of the notorious MS-13 gang who has been committing a slew of violent crimes. Then there was one who is accused of 5 counts of aggravated child rape. Every one of them is in the country illegally. One morning’s work netted the above and the ICE agents are back at it every day and in a number of other locations. Yet, some of the progressive officials often try to make ICE agents the bad guys. But they are anything but. They are out there doing a very dangerous job with the goal of making
Massachusetts a safer place for law abiding citizens. One spokes person from ICE, when asked by a reporter on camera what his thoughts are on having to do such a dangerous job with little to no assistance or cooperation from other law enforcement agencies, said it’s just how it is in Sanctuary states. Because of what’s almost a road block thrown up by officials in Sanctuary areas such as Massachusetts, it serves as an invitation for the criminal element to make this state a destination of choice.
Those elected officials; whether from the state, cities like Boston or suburban towns where the policy is to refuse to cooperate with ICE need to reassess their priorities and come to grips with their responsibilities; one of which is to keep law abiding citizens safe, not shield illegal criminals from prosecution and deportation. It’s what citizens want and are entitled to. The men and women of ICE deserve very special praise and our gratitude for doing the dangerous job that needs doing in spite of the politically motivated childish resistance they get in this state from certain elected officials who should know better.
“IInformation Center
The Election Is Over But The Meltdown Continues
t still hasn’t fully sunk in yet, that we took our country back.”
– This is a quote by Conservative activist Derek Utley. Utley of course is referring to the results of the recent national election. He was impressed but not completely surprised by the results where Republicans now control the White House, the US Senate, US House of Representatives and of course the already controlled US Supreme Court. He wasn’t so much surprised that the federal Government will soon be totally under GOP control, but it was the magnitude of the win. It was by all accounts a landslide, with the popular vote victory as well. Yes, there was and will be for quite a while a lot of celebrating as the winning side scored huge. But joyful celebration by the winners and sad loss by the losing side is to be expected after each big election. Yet, I have to say, I have never seen such a crazy reaction to a lost election quite like we’re seeing to this last one. It’s total insanity by a dwindling segment of the American public. Yes, they’re dwindling and they don’t even realize it. Ok, I get it. There are a lot of people; though clearly in the minority now that hate Trump. But many of those don’t just hate – they are totally consumed by their hatred and it’s eating them away from the inside out. The meltdowns are to the point where heads are nearly exploding. We can see it across social media. There are videos of people; grown adults, men and women crying their eyes out. People were and still are looking towards the sky and screaming hysterically in an uncontrollable shaking rage shouting F-Bombs in every direction. We see people threatening to drown themselves and jump off roof tops.
Some left wing college professors actually cancelled classes to give their students time to recover and mourn. Actually most students weren’t upset, but gladly took the day off from school; grateful for the break. In
reality it was the crazy professors who wanted the time off, but they’ve always been nuts anyway. And we can’t leave out mention of all the celebrities who backed Kamala. Remember, they promised to move out of the country if Donald Trump won, just like they said they would in 2016. They didn’t then and they won’t this time either. As if any other country would want them or would put up with their insufferable nonsense. One of the funniest cartoons in response was of 2 Canadian Mounted Police Officers on top of a mountain. One asked the other-“Do you see any American celebrities yet? To which the other answered – “Nope, not a one.” Lots of Americans would be more than willing to contribute to a gofundme account to buy them all one way plane tickets to leave if they promised never to return.
Oh, but the people putting on the best show of all are the late night comedy hosts like Jimmy Kimmel, with tears rolling down his eyes, Steven Colbert who was so mad, spittle appeared to be dripping from the sides of his mouth, the liberal media anchors like Joy Reid from MSNBC who apparently thinks everyone is a member of the Klan and of course The ladies of ‘The View’ who also went into crying fits and claim that President Trump is going to have them arrested and put into hard labor prison camps.
These people are making total embarrassing spectacles of themselves. They are unraveling and clearly unhinged and taking tantrums like toddlers. Is it sad watching the reactions of these people? Maybe to some, but it’s a good bet there are far more Americans enjoying the show.
As for the Democrat Party leadership, many have now realized that they took such a huge loss because they were not speaking to and certainly not listening to the over whelming number of
Note: talk back to John Ciccone by email at jciccone@southbostontoday.com
Americans who just had enough of their policies. And it’s not just Congressman Seth Moulton, or Senator Joe Manchin speaking out about how their party let the radical left wing progressives; a small percentage, take over and influence and cause Americans; including many Democrat voters to revolt and vote for Trump and Republicans down the ticket. It’s other Democrat leaders as well. The wakeup call was coming in from the public loud and clear. How could they not understand that most Americans; including Hispanics, don’t want open borders, criminals coming in, taxes going up, an economy in free fall, Drag shows
in elementary schools as well as Socialist indoctrination pushed on their children in schools, men ruining Women’s Sports, unaccounted for billions of their tax dollars going to a war in Ukraine, working class families being forced to pay off student loans. The party that cared more about ‘pronouns’ instead of how to stop the Fentanyl killing American kids was so out of touch with a huge majority of Americans blew it – it’s that simple. But can they ever recover? If they don’t stop listening to Nancy Pelosi, Hillary, Obama, AOC, Schumer, Gavin Newsome, a corrupt news media and Hollywood celebrities, probably not.
SOUTH BOSTON TODAY
John Ciccone
The MA $4B Economic and Jobs Bill Is A Christmas Tree Draped In Ornaments
From investments in climate technology and the life sciences industry to a new authorization letting local craft brewers sell their beers at farmers’ markets, the compromise version of the economic development bond bill is finally here, and it’s got something for everyone.
But the $3.96 billion in bonding authorizations wasn’t even the headline-grabber when the 319page bill was filed just after 6 p.m. Tuesday. What’s stealing the show is Sen. Sal DiDomenico’s push to pave the way for a pro soccer stadium in Everett. You’ll potentially be able to catch an MLS match closer to Boston (a few years hence), thanks to a section of the Senate-House agreement that opens the door for the Krafts to develop a new home there for the New England Revolution. Developers and local officials have touted the potential project’s
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.
ability to clean up a shabby, polluted stretch of waterfront property along the Mystic.
And when you go, someday, do you want to buy your ticket and avoid getting hit with hidden fees? That’s another of the sections in the hulking eco-dev bill, which is set to hit the House floor as soon as Thursday.
Other features include:
• A section authorizing the use of project labor agreements (PLAs), which often require union-only labor, on certain government projects
• Making it possible to grant liquor licenses to businesses whose managers are not U.S. citizens
• And while major health care bills remain tied up in separate conference committees, this package takes aim at health care workforce shortages in a couple ways. It places Massachusetts into the national Nurse Licensure Compact alongside more than 40 other states (the Health Policy Commission recommended join -
ing the compact three years ago). And it forges a pathway for foreign-trained physicians to obtain a license to practice here, a goal that Gov. Maura Healey included in her version of the bill.
The bill will surface first in the House, perhaps as soon as today. It will require a formal session and roll call vote to approve the borrowing authorizations, and an informal session on Wednesday morning could shed light on what procedure the House will use to make that happen. - Sam Doran
Limited Trump Effect On Beacon Hill
President-elect Donald Trump’s support in Massachusetts grew during this election cycle, as it grew nationwide. And Democrats on a federal level are having to reckon with what it will mean to have a Republican-led Senate, White House, Supreme Court and likely House as well.
But on a state level, the State
Councilor Flynn Will Hold a Hearing on Boston Housing Authority (BHA)
Boston City Councilor Ed Flynn will hold a hearing on November 22nd, in-person at the Iannella Chamber, to discuss the current status of the elevator systems across Boston Housing Authority (BHA) developments. The elevator systems in many BHA developments are aging and fre-
Elevator Systems
quent reports of breakdowns have negatively impacted the quality of life. This dynamic has raised public safety concerns for many residents, including seniors and persons with disabilities. The hearing will seek to address the ongoing safety and reliability of the elevator system across BHA developments and discuss both financial and maintenance plans. Residents are encouraged to attend the hearing and provide in-person, virtual or written testimony by emailing City Council Central Staff at Shane.Pac@Boston.gov.
Over the last few years, tenants in BHA developments such as the Ruth
Barkley Apartments in the South End, Torre Unidad at West Dedham Street, and St. Botolph BHA in District 2 have complained of recurring elevator breakdowns and prolonged periods of maintenance and repair. Tenants have reported getting stuck in elevators, elevators skipping floors, and elevator repair parts taking a long time to arrive. Our seniors and persons with disabilities have been particularly impacted and have expressed frustration at not being able to leave their apartments for prolonged periods of time, resulting in missed medical appointments and not being able to pick up groceries.
House’s deep blue waters just got a drop more purple. Massachusetts Republicans added one more member to their tiny minority caucus in the Senate, and the House retained its exact same partisan makeup even though two Democrats lost their seats, because Democrats also flipped two others. Asked Wednesday if he took any lessons away from the two Democrats’ losses, House Speaker Ron Mariano said there wasn’t really a message for his caucus.
“I don’t understand why we need a lesson from two lost seats,” he said. “What is the catastrophe there?”
The only Democrat incumbent to lose her reelection bid was 12-term Rep. Patricia Haddad, who lost to Republican Justin Thurber of Somerset. Ken Sweezey, a Pembroke Republican, beat Democrat Rebecca Coletta to claim the vacant South Shore district represented by former Rep. Josh Cutler until he
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“It is critical for the BHA to have a financial and maintenance plan to address our aging elevator systems across BHA developments. This is a public safety and quality of life issue - when elevators are constantly in disrepair, it is virtually impossible for tenants, especially those who live on higher floors, and for our seniors and persons with disabilities to get out of their building,” said Councilor Flynn. “It is imperative that the BHA conducts a comprehensive review and inspection on the status of every elevator in BHA developments, including the repair history of each elevator, the frequency it has been shut down, and how often first responders have had to visit.”
For more information, please contact Councilor Flynn’s office at 617635-3203 and Ed.Flynn@Boston.gov
Senator Collins Announces Massachusetts’ Disabled Veterans Benefitting from HERO Act
The Massachusetts Registry of Motor vehicle now offers veterans that are eligible to receive fee waivers for various transactions at the Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) due to the most comprehensive piece of veterans’ legislation in Massachusetts history.
The HERO Act, passed by the Legislature and signed by the Governor in August, An Act Honoring, Empowering, and Recognizing our Servicemembers and Veterans), includes over 30 provisions positively impacting veterans, including specific transactions veterans may conduct at the RMV.
“I am proud to announce the expansion of the HERO Act. This comes at a significant time, as we just celebrated Veterans Day, a day
in which we dedicate to honoring the services and sacrifices our Veterans made for this country. It is important that they know we are always fighting for their quality of life in the legislature. This expansion allows us to show additional gratitude to qualifying veterans that will benefit from this this year-round,” said Senator Nick Collins “The fees that are waived will lessen some of the burdens many of our veterans face daily and show that the Commonwealth is committed to them.”
Every motor vehicle registered in Massachusetts is subject to the annual excise tax, unless exempted. Under the HERO Act expansion, all Massachusetts residents who qualify as a disabled veteran are now eligible to receive the excise
tax exemption. To qualify, they must present a letter from the U.S. Veterans Affairs Office to the city or town where their vehicle is garaged.
In addition, disabled veterans are no longer required to pay a vehicle registration fee for any vehicle registered in their name. Previously, this benefit could only be applied to one vehicle registered in their name. Also, all these veterans are no longer required to pay a transaction fee for a passenger driver’s license or for a passenger driver’s license renewal.
A disabled veteran is determined by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs to either have a combined service-connected disability rating of 100 percent or be individually unemployable due to
Councilors Flynn and Murphy file resolution recommending placement
of the Boston Election Department under
At next week’s Council Meeting, Boston City Councilor Ed Flynn will file a resolution recommending the placement of the City of Boston’s Election Department under State Receivership. The resolution is in response to the lack of preparedness that resulted in ballot shortages at many locations, unnecessary delays for voters, and a breakdown in communication from the Boston Election Department with both poll workers and the Massachusetts Secretary of State’s office on Election Day this year.
On Election Day, ballot shortages were reported throughout Boston, including precincts that ran low or ran out in Hyde Park, Roslindale, West Roxbury, and Jamaica Plain. A precinct at Savin Hill in Dorchester
their service-connected disability. The legislation signed into law by Governor Healey in August 2024 increases benefits, modernizes services and promotes inclusivity for veterans in Massachusetts. In addition to provisions impacting veterans who drive, the legislation expands access to behavioral health treatment, supports businesses that hire veterans, updates the definition of a veteran, expands the Veterans Equality Review Board’s scope, and codifies medical and dental benefits.
State Receivership
was also without any ballots for an extended period of time.
Moreover, poll workers reported that their calls to notify the Boston Election Department of the ballot shortages went unanswered. This led to some of the poll workers to turn away voters, which caused unnecessary and unreasonable wait times for residents. In the South End, the polling location at Cathedral High School ran out of English only ballots and also had poor lighting in the facility. This forced many voters to cast their votes on Chinese ballots which also included English, however, the poor lighting made it all the more challenging for voters to read the ballot and forced residents to vote by flashlight on their cellphones. Several poll workers brought lamps from their homes to try and assist their neighbors. While the City’s initial review found that there was a formula miscalculation within the Boston Election Department, questions regarding the lack of communication and unanswered
phone calls were not addressed in the review. In the 2006 Gubernatorial election which elected former Governor Deval Patrick - the first African American Governor of Massachusetts, the Boston Election Department was put under State Receivership after there were ballot shortages in many communities of color.
“Voting is a Civil Rights issue and the bedrock of our democracy. It is unacceptable that Boston was both unprepared and unresponsive to warnings from poll workers, especially in a Presidential Election year, when voter turnout tends to be higher than municipal elections,” said Councilor Flynn. “It is critical that we demonstrate the ability to provide basic city services with our elections to restore faith and confidence with the people of Boston. Until then, it is wholly appropriate that our Election Department be placed under State Receivership.”
For more information, please contact Councilor Flynn’s office at 617635-3203 and Ed.Flynn@Boston.gov.
All are welcome to the monthly Gate of Heaven Parish Coffee and Conversation after the 9am Mass this coming Sunday, November 17, 2024.
All are welcome to the Memorial Month’s Mind Mass for Sister Evelyn Hurley, SCN (1915-2024) which will be held on Sunday, November 17, 2024 at the 10:30am Mass at St. Brigid Church. Sister Evelyn, a sister of the Charity of Nazareth and longtime teacher here in South Boston who died on October 16, 2024 at the age of 109 years old. We will also have a Family Mass at St. Brigid Church at this 10:30am Mass. Please join us for our monthly Sunday Family Mass followed by our monthly Coffee and Refreshments downstairs St. Brigid Church in Cushing Hall.
ment deadlines is key.
In general, “open enrollment for the Health Insurance Marketplace is the one designated period each year when you can elect, renew or make changes to your health insurance coverage for the upcoming year without a qualifying life event,” says Joseph Kleiman, CFO and COO at BuzzRx. What are qualifying life events? “These could be a marriage or divorce, the birth or adoption of a child, a move to another state, a change in employment or loss of health insurance coverage.”
It’s during this time that you can choose, renew or change your health insurance benefits. Some plans also offer health coverage for prescriptions, dental and vision. Kleiman adds that there are options available for supplemental or add-on insurance benefits, which might include services such as hearing and eye exams or dental cleanings, which aren’t always included.
The open enrollment period began on November 1, 2024, and ends on January 15, 2025. However, Kleiman notes that there are some important variations of this timeline depending on which state you are enrolling in. “Some states such as
Idaho already began enrollment in October, and others such as Massachusetts, California, New York, New Jersey and Rhode Island close enrollment at the end of January 2025. You can visit HealthCare. gov to find more information.
Those using Medicare have a separate enrollment window where they can renew, purchase or change their plans. Medicare open enrollment runs from October 15 through December 7. “If you are electing private health insurance coverage through your employer, it is important to confirm with them what their open enrollment window is, as they likely have their own timeline,” says Kleiman.
Why open enrollment 2024 is so important? Open enrollment only occurs once a year, so enrolling in coverage through the marketplace or your employer will ensure you have health care for the upcoming year starting in January. “The most significant effect is for people with pre-existing conditions,” explains Tayler Busack, a licensed health insurance agent at AZ Health Insurance Brokers. “If open enrollment is missed, your options and access to coverage will differ depending on your location.”
left in February for a job in the Healey administration. However, a Democrat challenger, Michelle Badger of Plymouth, defeated Republican Jesse Brown to claim the House district that Republican Rep. Mathew Muratore gave up to run unsuccessfully for an open Senate seat. And Dennis Gallagher won the seat being vacated by GOP Rep. Angelo D’Emilia.
It’s also an important time for those purchasing or electing health insurance benefits outside of an employer-sponsored plan. Typically, more affordable coverage will be available at this time.
Understanding what type of coverage you need during open enrollment is vital. And Kleiman says many terms are being discussed during this time.
“Jargon, such as Health Maintenance Organization (HMO), Preferred Provider Organization (PPO), premium and deductible—to name a few—and categories such as Bronze, Silver, Gold and Platinum are often used,” he says. “It is important to not only understand what they mean but also what they mean for your unique situation so you can understand which plan makes the most sense for you and your family.”
The categories vary based on the insurance provider and what they offer and bronze is typically the least expensive with fewer benefits, but price and benefits increase with each level.
You can check out health insurance basics at https://www.cms.gov/ files/document/nsa-health-insurance-basics.pdf or ask your employer if you need help understanding the difference between the available
A shifting of the pieces, for sure, but without any real partisan trend to show for it.
Two North Shore teachers’ unions facing $50K fines, strikes continue Thursday
An Essex Superior Court Judge ruled Wednesday that Beverly and Gloucester teachers’ unions must each pay a $50,000 fine as contentious negotiations continue and their strikes head into a fourth school day Thursday. The fines will increase by $10,000 each day the strike persists. Teachers’ strikes are illegal under state law. Marblehead educators, who voted to strike one day after the other two North Shore unions, have not yet been ordered to pay any fines.
AG Campbell vs. the feds
Even before Donald Trump named Congressman Matt Gaetz as his choice for U.S. attorney general on Wednesday afternoon, Massachusetts AG Andrea Campbell was
healthcare plans.
Busack adds that open enrollment undergoes small yearly changes, so it is important to make sure your information and policies are up to date. When you participate in open enrollment, Busack notes that many people forget to update their income. “Make sure your income is up to date, as you want to avoid paying any tax credits back,” she says.
If you have a regular physician you want to keep seeing, it’s important to verify that your doctor will continue to accept your plan. This is because insurance carriers’ networks can change from year to year, and a doctor who was once in-network may be out of network next year.
Lastly, Kleiman suggests paying close attention to the deductible. “Sometimes when you see a lower premium available for a health insurance plan, it is easy to forget that a high deductible may offset this price.” If you anticipate using a lot of healthcare services or filling a lot of prescriptions, “a higher premium or higher coinsurance may be worth less expensive out-of-pocket costs throughout the year,” he says. Some information in this article courtesy of Courtney Shapiro, Woman’s World
already girding herself for the next four years. Campbell’s staff has been “preparing contingency planning,” she told CommonWealth Beacon’s “Codcast,” to counter the upcoming Trump administration’s stances on issues like reproductive health, immigration, racial justice, and health care.
State health officials unsure about Trump-era outlook
Dr. Robbie Goldstein, head of the state Department of Public Health, said Wednesday that “we don’t know what the next few years may hold” under President Trump. Conversations are revolving around topics like water fluoridation, vaccinations, and climate change, he said. At the Public Health Council meeting, council member Dr. Edward Bernstein of the Boston University School of Medicine said public health is on the Trump administration’s “chopping block.”
Councilor Flynn’s Statement on Opposition to Ranked Choice Voting
Recently, I attended the Boston City Council Hearing regarding a Home Rule Petition to adopt Ranked Choice Voting for municipal elections. While my colleagues on the City Council consider this new voting systemand while no panelists provided alternative testimony- I want to re-emphasize my strong opposition to this unnecessary change for many reasons, including serious failures with administering our elections last week, and that implementing a new system may be confusing and potentially lead to mistakes in voting for our residents, including our seniors, persons with disabilities, immigrant neighbors and English language learners, and communities of color.
In short, with all of the serious issues that we have to address in the City of Boston, I can honestly say that our current system of voting is one that I have never heard brought up a single time by residents at a public or local civic group meeting in the last seven years. In my opinion, at a time when residents across the political spectrum are concerned about our election process, the last thing we want to do to restore faith in our system for all neighbors is to create more confusion with a new one where the person who receives the most votes may not be declared the winner. Last week, the Boston Elections Department failed to deliver a sufficient amount of ballots to several precinct voting locations across the city, leading to an investigation into the Elections Department by Secretary of State William Galvin. Many residents had to wait for a long period of time for Boston Police to escort additional ballots, English speakers needed to vote using Chinese ballots at the Cathedral polling location in the South End, while other neighbors were forced to vote by phone flashlight there as well. Considering the recent egregious failures of the Elections Department, a major shift in policy to Ranked Choice Voting would be considered wholly tone deaf by the people of Boston. There are legitimate concerns on Ranked Choice Voting, and the option to rank candidates, replacing our straightforward voting process. In practice, the added complexity can potentially confuse residents, particularly those who are less informed about the system, and make it difficult to understand how their choices affect the election outcome. The process of transferring votes from eliminated candidates is also challenging to grasp, which could lead to uncertainty and lower participation rates. Our current system, where the candidate with the most votes wins is straightforward, simple to understand, and inclusive of
all, including our seniors, persons with disabilities, immigrant neighbors and English language learners, and communities of color. The additional resources and labor required to implement this system could further hinder voter engagement. There are concerns that the public would view a Ranked Choice Voting election as lacking legitimacy or transparency if the winner is not the candidate who receives the most first-place votes.
In addition, there have been problems with implementing Ranked Choice Voting, such as delays in results in Alaska for 15 days following the 2022 elections. There are concerns on risks of error in tabulating votes, such as the New York City Board of Elections mistakenly including 135,000 “test ballots” in results for the 2021 mayoral race before realizing their mistake. We should not further burden our Election Department who is already struggling to conduct elections.
Another concern is the financial burden that converting our elections to Ranked Choice Voting would impose on the City of Boston. While the City of Boston faces significant fiscal issues in the years ahead with our budget due to falling commercial property values, over 70% reliance on property taxes, and over 50% of our land absorbed by our large nonprofit partners in the PILOT program- we should not be asking the people of Boston to incur the additional costs of this unnecessary change to account for tabulation, increased paper ballot expenses, subject matter experts, education and community outreach.
In the final analysis, it is critical that we do all we can to maintain the faith of all neighbors in our electoral system and democracy. I believe that a change to a system where the person who receives the most votes may not be declared the winner would be counterproductive. Voting is a civil rights issue. Last week’s failures of providing a sufficient number of ballots in several locations throughout the city in a presidential election- as well as the lack of communication with poll workers and the Secretary of State’s office- warrant city, state, and federal investigations and placing the Elections Department in receivership. It is crucial to prioritize an electoral process that enhances participation and understanding, rather than one that complicates voting and strains our resources
The City of Boston should be prioritizing and addressing critical community needs—such as affordable housing, public and pedestrian safety, and quality of life improvements—instead of focusing on adopting a new system of voting
Complicated
• Voting in RCV elections is also more complicated for voters than in single-choice ones, which some
argue can increase the risk of mistakes on ballots that disqualify votes. Less informed voters who do not take advantage of the opportunity to rank multiple candidates can be disadvantaged if their ballot is eliminated (and therefore not counted), a situation known as “ballot exhaustion.” Some opponents say this results in systematic disparities, but evidence on the subject is mixed. Many advocates recommend voter education efforts to ensure voters take advantage of RCV and to minimize the risk of ballot exhaustion.
• RCV, compared to simple majority, is a more complex system to explain, and my concern is that it will disincentivize people - people whose voices have traditionally been ignored - our immigrants, English language learners, and seniors, particular immigrant seniors - from voting.
• • Impact on our immigrant voters, ELL, POC voters, seniors.
• While I believe that everyone has the capacity to learn how to vote in a new system, I worry that RCV is an unnecessarily complicated process that in turn, will actually disincentivize many of our non english speaking immigrants, ELL, POC, Seniors to vote.
• In practice, it is something that is difficult to administer and requires a lot of coordinated resources and labor to realize.
• https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/2023RS/fnotes/ bil_0004/hb0344.pdf
• Include “exhaustive votes” (throw away votes)
• If we can guarantee multiple interpreters of all languages at each polling station to explain this change for those who are new to this system, flier each home with language instructions of this change, do a concerted, coordinated, consistent, citywide effort to outreach and educate ALL voters, in all languages about this change, this could - in theory - work.
• Cost & Labor to administer
• We have a system that currently works, and works well. To have a new system will create unnecessary expenses and work for Elections Department and polling workers. There will be a lot of confusion on the day at the polling station. We will need to hire extra staff as well as extra language access staff (in all languages) to explain how the new voting process works). This seems like a lot of unnecessary work for a small amount of gain.
• Cost to administer RCV and to do public education campaign is a lot; (printing ballot costs with additional instructions, cost to brief staff, ex-
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Guy The Wine Don’t Forget Me, Argentina
Just as it’s getting colder around here, it’s quickly becoming warmer in the Southern hemisphere and that brings Argentina to mind. The vines have already flowered, and the harvest will start in February, with the lighter white wines and will conclude in March with the big red wines, like Cabernet and Malbec. It may surprise you to find out that the country is the fifth largest wine-producing nation in the
world. I’d like to talk about some of those “big” reds here this week…. Zolo Malbec Estate Grown 2021 Mendoza – Argentina $19.99. One of Argentina’s signature grapes, Malbec delivers lush flavors of strawberries, plums and blackberries. Zolo Malbec is aged in French and American oak for 6 months, which add subtle notes of cocoa and vanilla. This wine was given 92 Points by James Suckling, who described it as, “Being rich and chewy, with distinctive notes of berries, ash and violets on the nose, following through to a medium body with creamy tannins and a juicy finish. So much fruit and fine tannins. Really delicious. Drink now.”. Catena Agrelo Cabernet Sauvignon, ($26.99). Family vintners for over 100 years, the Catenas are recognized for their pioneering role in high-altitude viticulture in Argentina.
This wine is sourced from the family’s historic vineyards in the Agrelo Appellation, a region well-regarded for Cabernet Sauvignon in Mendoza. The appellation´s deep clay soils and moderate climate produce wines that are revered for their robust tannins and smooth, lengthy finish.
El Enemigo Malbec ,2020, ($25.99). El Enemigo Malbec 2020 is a premium Argentine wine that offers a rich and concentrated drinking experience. On the nose, this wine presents complex aromas of black fruit, cherry and dark berry fruit, setting the stage for a truly indulgent palate. Upon sipping, the full-bodied wine delivers a burst of flavors, including blackberry, black cherry, pepper, and a subtle floral character. The finish is both elegant and lengthy, offering a lingering taste that will leave you wanting more. This wine is the perfect pairing for a variety of delicious dishes, including rodizio, Lyonnaise sauces, grilled steaks, and barbecued ribs. Its bold and intense flavors complement these savory dishes perfectly.
Domaine Bousquet Black Rock Cabernet Sauvignon, ($14.99). Com-
bines the know-how of French winemaking with Argentina’s exceptional climate and terroir. The vineyard is located at the foothills of the Andes. Its thermal amplitude contributes to obtaining fully ripened grapes with excellent acidity. The grapes are handpicked, and the vineyard is certified organic. The wine has an elegant style, with lots of mineral notes, cherry and currant. The palate is full of ripe fruit flavors with delicate tannins. Pair with pasta dishes, red meat and sauces.
Kaiken Ultra Malbec, Mendoza, ($22.99). A dry red wine with fruity flavors as rich as its deep ruby color, the Kaiken Ultra Malbec 2019 took home the Gold Sommeliers Choice Award in 2022. Produced in Argentina, it was bottled by Aurelio Montes in the Mendoza region’s Uco Valley, where altitudes reach as high as 1100 meters above sea level. This Argentinian wine region is newer when it comes to its production of medium-bodied bottles, though the Kaiken Ultra proves that the organic grapes of the area are nevertheless top notch. Critics love fruit flavor blended with earthy tones. The light smokiness and oak notes end every sip with a mild tannic finish.
PARKS DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCES 2024 HOLIDAY LIGHTINGS
Mark your calendars and prepare to join the Boston Parks and Recreation Department to celebrate the holiday season with their schedule of annual lighting celebrations in City of Boston parks. Please note that due to ongoing construction, there will be no Copley Square tree lighting this year.
Lighting of the Trellis at Christopher Columbus Park
Monday, November 25, 5–6 p.m. 110 Atlantic Avenue, Boston
Located on Boston’s historic waterfront and stewarded with help from the Friends of Christopher Columbus Park, the site will be transformed into a beautiful holiday display when the park’s 260 feet of trellis are illuminated with 50,000
blue lights along with 14 decorated trees throughout the park.
The Nova Scotia Tree for Boston Arrives
Tuesday, November 26, 11 a.m.
Boston Common
Boston’s official 2024 tree arrives to fanfare on Boston Common by flatbed truck from Nova Scotia. This year’s historic Tree for Boston is a 30-year-old, 45-foot-tall white spruce donated by Hugh and Liz Ryan of Mattie Settlement, Antigonish County, Nova Scotia. The public is welcome to cheer the tree’s arrival with candy canes and an appearance by Santa.
Lighting of the Ship at Martin’s Park
Saturday, November 30, 4–6 p.m.
64 Sleeper Street, South Boston
The fourth annual lighting of the ship at Martin’s Park celebration will be held at the Smith Family Waterfront. Martin’s Park is a climateresilient park built in memory of
Martin W. Richard—the youngest victim of the Boston Marathon bombings—that provides a space for children, families, and visitors of all abilities. The park includes a ship as the centerpiece of its play structures that will be lit for the holidays.
Boston Common Tree Lighting
Thursday, December 5, 6–8 p.m.
Boston Common
Boston’s official 2024 Christmas tree from Nova Scotia will be lit at the close of a two-hour celebration beginning at 6 p.m. and broadcast live on WCVB Channel 5 starting at 7 p.m. This is the 53rd year that a tree has been donated by Nova Scotia and commemorates 107 years of friendship with the people of Boston. The tree will be lit at approximately 7:55 p.m.
Lighting of the Trees on the Commonwealth Avenue Mall and Charlesgate Park
Thursday, December 5, 8:15 p.m.
Arlington Street and Common-
wealth Avenue, Back Bay
The Boston Common Tree
Lighting will be followed immediately by the lighting of Commonwealth Avenue Mall, courtesy of the Friends of the Public Garden. The Emerald Necklace Conservancy and Charlesgate Alliance are building on this annual tradition and bringing their signature emerald green lighting to the Charlesgate Park block of the Mall for the third consecutive year. For the first time this year, the lights on the Commonwealth Avenue Mall will extend to Kenmore Square.
Visit boston.gov/holidaylights for more information about the season’s festivities. To stay up to date with news and events in Boston parks, sign up for our email list at bit.ly/Get-Parks-Emails and follow our social channels @bostonparksdept on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.
PREBLE STREET (SOUTH BOSTON)
Register: bit.ly/3YuUhXv
Toll Free: (833) 568 - 8864
Meeting ID: 161 838 6463
DESCRIPTION:
The proposed project consists of 31 new residential home ownership units with 5 affordable units as well as approximately 759 square feet of ground floor commercial space.
Mail to:
Stephen Harvey Planning Department
One City Hall Square, 9th Floor Boston, MA 02201
Phone: Email:
616.918.4418
Stephen.j.harvey@boston.gov
BostonPlans.org
Veterans Day Celebrated In South Boston, A Proud Neighborhood Tradition
“The eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month” has great meaning in South Boston. The Thomas J. Fitzgerald Post #561, VFW celebrated their 73rd Veterans Day with the South Boston Community.
The day started with Assembly at Post Headquarters for coffee and refreshments, followed by the annual march escorted by Boston Police C-6. The local Daisy, Brownie and Girl Scout troops lead the way followed by South Boston High School, JROTC,
elected officials, Veterans and families to St. Brigid Chapel for Mass, said by Father Joe, Chaplain of the Fitzgerald Post. A fabulous breakfast was waiting for everyone after Mass. Speeches, appreciation, donations and comradery could be heard through-
out Cushing Hall. Another year of patriotism and South Boston pride was on display as we continue to recognize our Veterans and are thankful for their service to our Country. God Bless South Boston and God Bless these United States of America!
RCV continued from page 7
tra staffing, extra staff with language abilities), and may still end up being confusing to a lot of people, especially for POC, ELL, immigrants, seniors, those voices who are actually important in elections.
If not administered well, the system may create confusion and sow doubt in the election process; causing people to lose faith in the process.
• Another major issue that we have to contend with is the additional cost the RCV could potentially put on the Commonwealth. While the cost of the electoral management system would remain the same, there are additional costs that are not associated with traditional voting. In 2023, Montgomery County in Maryland published a fiscal report comparing the costs of RCV to approval voting. Election Management System Programming was the same for both categories (RCV and approval voting). Both method’s cost the county $206,000 in voter outreach, leaving the total cost for approval voting at $597,000. Ranked Choice Voting’s
final cost was $1.2 million. RCV was almost twice as expensive as traditional voting to cover costs like tabulation of voting results, subject matter experts, increased specimen ballot costs, and other contractual services. Remarkably, an additional $191,000 was spent on increased paper ballot costs. This report was published by a small county in Maryland. The financial implications that RCV would have on a city like Boston, nevermind the state, would be an extreme burden and could be better spent on residents’ quality of life issues, affordable housing, or community grants. https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/2023RS/fnotes/ bil_0004/hb0344.pdf
• Next, we must take into consideration the additional labor and coordinated resources that implementing this system would take. I referred to a study which analyzes the impact of Instant-runoff Voting (IRV) on racial group voter turnout in urban elections, specifically examining five San Francisco mayoral elections from 1995 to 2011. It argues that the complexity
of IRV raises information costs and obscures racial group interests, leading to decreased turnout among Black and White voters. The findings reveal that IRV exacerbates turnout disparities related to age and education, while diminishing the influence of income. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/ abs/10.1111/juaf.12209
• RCV is hard to implement
• RCV is not always simple to implement. Results in RCV elections generally face delays compared to those for plurality ones, which can be tabulated more quickly; for example, Alaska’s Division of Elections did not release any rankedchoice returns for 15 days after its 2022 elections. Some argue there is a higher risk of error in more complex RCV tabulation. In a high-profile example, the New York City Board of Elections accidentally included 135,000 “test ballots” in results for the 2021 mayoral race before catching its mistake, causing widespread confusion. Moreover, introducing RCV could burden local bodies al-
ready straining to conduct elections.
Perceptions of mistrust
• There is also a risk that the electorate views results of RCV elections as less legitimate than those of traditional first-past-the-post ones, especially when the winner is not the candidate who receives the most first-place votes. A George Washington University study found that these “come-from-behind victories” lead to greater voter dissatisfaction. More generally, voters can perceive RCV elections as less transparent, since determining winners relies on a less intuitive process than they are used to. There are already signs of mistrust in some examples. In the 2021 New York mayoral race, some allies of the eventual winner, Eric Adams suggested that the system was perpetrating “voter suppression” of minority voters when it appeared that another candidate might overtake Adams’s early lead in later rounds of tabulation.
Let’s not have our aspirations cloud over something that is working, easy to use, and serving our electorate.
Councilor Flynn Files a Hearing Order to Discuss Elder Scamming
Boston City Councilor
Ed Flynn will file a hearing next Wednesday, November 20th at the City Council meeting to discuss the issue of elder scamming in the City of Boston. In response to a rising number of predatory scams targeting our seniors,
the hearing order will explore ways to better protect the city’s residents.
Our seniors, along with immigrant communities, are increasingly vulnerable to deceptive sales tactics in sectors such as home repair, banking, and utilities. The issue is particularly pressing in light of rising home values in Boston, making homeowners, especially seniors, prime targets for scammers offering unnecessary repair services. The hearing will focus on identifying common fraud schemes, such as misleading door-to-door solicitations, deceptive discount offers, and overcharged home repair contracts, as well as other online scamming schemes.
The Boston Police Department issued a warning in August about increased risk of home improvement fraud, with victims being manipulated into paying up to $30,000 for unfin -
ished work. The hearing order will discuss ways that seniors can access the resources and knowledge needed to avoid becoming victims of these deceptive schemes.
“Our seniors are frequently targeted by companies that claim to offer the best deal, product, or service in home repair, banking, insurance, utilities and home sales. But oftentimes, these companies are employing predatory sales techniques that mislead or confuse our residents,” said Councilor Flynn. “Predatory companies and individuals that exploit our seniors must be held accountable. It’s our responsibility to do all that we can to protect our seniors and ensure accountability for those who take advantage of them.”
For more information, please contact Councilor Flynn’s office at 617-635-3203 and Ed. Flynn@Boston.gov
What to Watch St. Peter Academy
Veterans Tag Day & Parents Night Out
On Friday, the students of St. Peter Academy enjoyed a Red, White and Blue Tag Day in honor of Veterans Day. The funds raised will be donated to Support Our Troops!
On Tuesday, the parents of St. Peter Academy enjoyed a Parents
Night at Castle Island Brewing Co. Thank you to SPA parents Adam and Jen Romanow, owners of CIBC for graciously hosting the event. It was such a pleasure for the parents, staff and board members to hang out. Trivia was fun too! We will be back!
St. Peter Academy is now accepting applications for the 2025-2026 school year. There are limited spots available for the Toddler Program for a January start. 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.
Don’t look now, but here come the… Eh, sorry, I guess I can’t get that excited about a Week 10 road win when your record is only 3-7. But the defense does look good. Did that have a lot to do with Chicago’s offense? Perhaps. And Drake Maye was better. Next year should be interesting for Maye. Will he take that leap? We shall see. I’m starting to get skeptical about him because now I see a lot of the sports media giving him the same over-thetop praise they gave Mac Jones, after just mediocre performances.
It’s like everyone wants to be the first one to say, “See, I told you so!” Here’s what Patriots coach Jerod Mayo is telling us as the Pats enter a Week 11 home game against the 4-5 Los Angeles Rams:
“All of our focus is on the Rams,” said Mayo in his opening statement at Wednesday’s media session. “It’s a good football team. It’s a good football team. I know maybe their record doesn’t really reflect the talent that they have on the roster, the coaching that they have, but this is a good football team. I’m going to continue to stress to the players, to the team, to the coaches, it’s having a sense of urgency and really learning how to win. We haven’t had a back-to-back win this
year. We’ve lost multiple games in a row, so we know that side of it. Now we’ve got to figure out how to turn the page after a win and get a victory. When I look at this team, especially offensively, it starts with the quarterback, a guy like Matt Stafford who’s done it at a high level for a very long time. I don’t think he gets the credit that he deserves, but he is a very accurate passer, can make all the throws, and just because he’s older, doesn’t mean that he can’t move around in the pocket a little bit. Now, not the same as some of these other quarterbacks, but as you study the film, which I know all you guys study a lot of film, he definitely makes people miss in the pocket, and those extended plays are definitely a huge problem. I would also say the receiver position, those guys are definitely good competitors. [Cooper] Kupp’s been doing it for a long time, multiple hundred reception seasons. He’s just an all-around good player, but it’s not just him, the other guys. Turned the Seattle game on, the plays they made at the end of the game where they just refused to be denied as far as catching the ball, and obviously they pulled that one out. I would say Kyren [Williams] does a good job. He’s in there the majority of the time. Anytime a back is in there
This week,
Danny shared his thoughts on the New England Patriots after a big Week 10 win in Chicago:
over 80 percent of the time, you look at this guy as a three-down back and really can do it all. He can do it all. Up front, look, they’re getting healthy up front. They’ll have some guys back that they haven’t had over the past few weeks. They’re getting healthy up front, and again, just a huge shoutout to [Sean] McVay and his staff. That scheme is hard to defend. The run game looks just like the play-action game. The run game looks just like the boot game, and they do a good job with those fakes and all of that stuff. Defensively, for the Rams’ defense, I think it starts up front. To me, I think the coaching staff has done a good job. It’s almost like a philosophical change in my mind because you don’t
have the big-name guy up there. At the same time, I would argue to say this is one of the best fronts that we have seen all year. It’s a young group, and they do it the right way. They play the right way. They play together. They hustle. They’re all over the place. Our offensive line, they’ve got to step up. They’ve got to step up. Really, a lot of people say it’s a challenge, but it’s an opportunity for them to, again, shut up the naysayers about not being able to establish the line of scrimmage. That’s my challenge to them. If we handle those guys, they have guys at the second and third level, obviously, but I think it just starts up front.”
Follow Danny on instagram @ DannyPicard.
SPORTS TODAY
PATRIOTS SACK THE BEARS IN CHICAGO Tweet of the Week
The New England Patriots defense sacked Bears rookie quarterback Caleb Williams nine times on Sunday in Chicago, en route to a 19-3 win on the road.
It marks the Patriots’ third win of the season. They’ll now return home to host the 4-5 Rams in Week 11 on Sunday.
“I thought the guys really answered the challenge that we had all during the week,” said Patriots coach Jerod Mayo after the Week 10 win in Chicago. “We talked about having a physical Wednesday and I think that showed up today really in all three phases, but offensively we were able to really deliver those body blows that we talked about and really staying ahead of the sticks. The prior week there was a lot of 2ndand-long situations that really took us off track, and I would say defensively especially on the interior piece, for the most part — look, there are things to correct. I thought the guys played well in the run game. Defensively I would say we were able to get pressure. We were able to get pressure on the quarterback. We had nine sacks in the game, which is always good, and I would say the back end did a good job as far as coverage is concerned.
“Offensively we kind of talked about the run game, and look, Drake [Maye] still continues to go out there and make plays,” added Mayo. “He’s
going to make mistakes, but this is part of his evolution, part of his growth and development. Then special teams, it was kind of shaky there at the beginning, but I would say as we were able to settle down, it was good. I thought the coordinators did an excellent job the entire week, not only reiterating the message that I said in the squad meeting rooms but also just putting together a good game plan and knowing how we have to win football games. That’s controlling the line of scrimmage, and we kind of talked about that.”
The Patriots got a decent game out of rookie quarterback Drake Maye, who finished 15-of-25 for 184 pass yards with one touchdown and one interception. He was sacked just one time.
New England’s lone touchdown came late in the second quarter, as Maye found Ja’Lynn Polk for a twoyard score that gave the Patriots a 10-3 lead with 1:46 left in the first half. It was Polk’s only catch of the game.
“Hopefully this is the start of [Polk] being a very good receiver in this league,” said Mayo after the win. “We never doubted him in the locker room, and I think that’s important. There’s been a lot of outside noise, and he’s had to deal with the outside noise, but when it’s all said and done, if you go out and do it on the field, there’s not much people can say.”
“That was pretty cool,” said Maye about Polk’s touchdown. “First-round
pick, a second-round pick, and I think JP is finding it. I think there’s sometimes where I think I may have had him some other times in the game. I think he’s going to be a great player and looking forward to hoping that touchdown gives him some confidence, and he’s going to make a lot of plays for us.”
Aside from Polk’s touchdown, the rest of New England’s points were scored by kicker Joey Slye, who finished 4-for-4 on field goals, with his longest being a 37-yarder.
“Hey, huge,” said Mayo when asked about Slye’s perfect kicking performance. “To go out there and be fourfor-four, to have a new baby at home less than a week old in little Palmer.
“That means a lot. Anytime a kicker goes out there and kicks and he’s perfect, there’s nothing I can say bad about that.”
But the story of the game, no doubt, was the Patriots’ defense.
“It starts up front, it starts up front,” said Mayo. “I think that’s what we have to do. We have to go out there and reestablish the line of scrimmage and we were able to do that in all three-and-outs.”
“Man, it’s a good feeling sitting over there as an offense, as a quarterback, watching that type of performance,” said Maye about his defense. “I felt like all of the 11 were out there at a time, but I know 15, 20 played. Just credit to them, credit to them in practice this week. Just kind of a good taste of what it looked like for me in training camp. They get after you, mix up shell, mix up coverage, mix up blitz packages. It’s pretty cool to watch. It’s good to be on the other side of the ball. I’ve got to make some better decisions and keep those guys in great field position.”
SBT Staff
Join Commissioner Michael Cox, the Boston Police Department & the Boston Regional Intelligence Center for
SOUTH BOSTON COMMUNITY COMPSTAT
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 2024 • 6-7:30 p.m.
LOCATION: GILLETTE HEADQUARTERS, 1 GILLETTE PARK, SOUTH BOSTON Main Entrance — Doors open at 5:45 p.m. ∙ Parking available on site
WHAT IS COMPSTAT?
COMPSTAT has traditionally been an internal meeting where Boston Police Department leaders discuss current crime trends and patterns in all of the City’s districts and coordinate our planning to strategically address them.
In 2023 we began incorporating the community as a key partner in these important efforts. This process ensures the BPD will continue to improve our work to address the continually changing needs of the communities we serve.
Your participation will allow BPD the chance to review critical information and to explain what we do and why, and it is also a chance for you to help us better understand the issues and resources that are most important to you and the members of your community.
FOR MORE INFO PLEASE CONTACT THE AREA C-6 COMMUNITY SERVICE OFFICE AT 617-343-4747