SouthBoston
Boston’s assessor presented a tight timeline for state lawmakers to act on the mayor’s controversial plan to raise commercial tax rates, while refusing to share data sought by the senator who blocked the bill, frustrating some city councilors.
Several members of the Boston City Council pressed Nicholas Ariniello, the city’s assessing commissioner, at a Tuesday tax classification hearing, for his refusal to provide Department of Revenue-certified data that would shed light on what next year’s tax rates would be for residential and commercial properties. At the same time,
Package Thieves Are Still Around
Lookout
The Christmas season brings us many things. As it has for generations in South Boston, and still is in 2024 Christmas is a time of festivities different from any other time of year. The joy of all the bright and beautiful lights and the Christmas trees themselves. The homes decked out with a variety of decorations that make neighbors smile. There
of course the church choirs and pageants, the plays, the concerts and the classic movies and recent movies that we watch each year along with the familiar Christmas songs that can be heard playing everywhere.
As most of us look forward to attending and maybe being part of the traditional events that have stood the test of time, there are still a few things that have the potential to be, well, not so festive and joyful. It’s a happening that started some years back as online shopping came about. Yes, the package thieves are back. Some call them ‘Porch Pirates’ most call them names that we could never print in this newspaper and/or convey what they’d like to do to the thieves if they could only get their hands on them. But regardless of how they are described, the bad news is
that reports and complaints by residents say they are back. Ah, but the good news is that, at least so far, there doesn’t seem to be as many of them as there were in recent years. The reason for less activity among the creeping thieves is thought to be they have learned that we, as a community, are aware of their tactics and are on the lookout for them. It’s said that the number of South Boston Homes that have security cameras and other video devices may now be as numerous as the homes without them. This is also a major deterrent to the Porch Pirates. Another reason is of course, our local police are vigilante and respond quickly to calls by neighbors about suspicious activity; calls the police absolutely want neighbors to make. And remember, when reporting these incidents, the number to
call is 911, not 311. But even though the thieves seem to be fewer this year and less active and much less brazen – so far, they are still out there. One of their favorite tactics is to follow UPS, Amazon, Fed EX and other delivery trucks and watch where they drop off the packages and boxes. They then swoop in quickly, and help themselves to the delivery made to your doorstep. Though it has become more difficult for the thieves to pull off this year, remember, this is their ‘most
wonderful time of the year’ too and some still risk it.
The point of this editorial is to be vigilante, lookout for your neighbors and if you haven’t yet bought security cameras, it’s a good time to consider it. They are one of the very few items that have actually gone DOWN in price in 2024. The Christmas season is much too special to let the package thieves ruin it. If we all work together, we can thwart these crooks and maybe even nail a couple of them OR, help put a couple of them in jail.
ecember 19, 2024, 5:00 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. Contact Director of Compass Programming Erin Bollinger at 617-268-5450 or email ebollinger@compasssonthebay.com to RSVP by December 16 and to receive the virtual meeting link.
BInformation Center The
Be Afraid To Say Christmas AND The New Sherriff Is Coming
Note: talk back to John Ciccone by email at jciccone@southbostontoday.com
efore touching on a few current topics I have a thought on something that’s been brought up each year at this time. It’s the reluctance, or in some cases even the fear of uttering the word ‘Christmas’. Although the number of Americans and even some people locally who hesitate to say the word Christmas for fear of offending others has largely diminished, there are still some around. In past years, saying the word was thought to be insensitive to those who don’t celebrate the holiday/holy day. Wishing people a Merry Christmas was frowned upon by the more liberal leaning among the population and it was strongly suggested that more generic greetings should be the new way to go. Using ‘safe’ terms like ‘Season’s Greetings’ or ‘Happy Holidays’ to others was said to be required in the effort to not hurt the feelings of some of the Christmas haters out there. And for the most part, those days are gone. And yet, there a few still caught up in the past who still dare not use the dreaded greeting of Merry Christmas. So to those few still walking on eggshells over how to great others during this ‘Christmas Season’, let me try to ease your concerns.
Christmas was designated to be a federal holiday in the year 1870 by the Congress of the United States. As a federal holiday, it’s perfectly legal to put up Christmas decorations; even those of a religious nature in public buildings, in schools and in and on any government property. When officials tell us that doing so violates the rule of ‘separation of church and state’ as found in the US Constitution, they are either lying or just don’t know what they’re talking about. Nowhere in the Constitution is ‘separation of church and state’ mentioned. You can look it up. So
legally, images of Santa Claus and even Nativity Scenes are legal any place in America. And as we state in this paper each year, when it comes to Christmas trees, it’s safe to call them exactly that. Those who still worry about being politically correct or ‘WOKE’ as it’s called now, you can relax. You don’t have to avoid the actual name by saying ‘holiday tree’ or winter solstice bush, festive shrub or calling them just trees. Remember, if it’s a lit up, decorated evergreen tree on display in December, it’s a Christmas tree. Certainly, people are free to call it whatever they choose. But when you call it anything else to avoid saying Christmas tree, you sound, well, kind of wimpy and a bit ridiculous.
Moving on, California is back in the news reinforcing its reputation as the most out of touch state in the union. Yes, even more so than Massachusetts. It’s getting so bad that there is a rapidly growing movement of residents in that who are making a strong effort to split the sate in two. There is now said to be millions of California residents who say they’ve had enough of the crime, corruption and decaying cities in that state caused by the politicians in charge. They will petition to form the 51st state. It will be a tough road, but it has to start some time.
President elect Trump has not even taken office yet, but he’s off to a fast start putting the world on notice that come January 20th, there’ll be a new sheriff in charge. He’s warned both Canadian and Mexican leaders that if they want to avoid massive tariffs, they will secure their sides of their borders. Both countries have begun doing just that. He’s informed Putin of Russia that he intends to bring peace to Ukraine and both countries’ leaders are will-
ing. He has threatened to unleash Hell on Hamas if our hostages are not released before he takes office and those who follow world affairs are betting Hamas will comply. He has also strongly suggested to businesses that have moved or plan to move their factories out of America that they will be much better off financially if they have a change of plans. Trump has also made it clear to those Blue State Governors and mayors that if you refuse to assist ICE in removing the thousands of illegal migrant criminals that are terrorizing the cities in those states,
then just get out of the way because whether the leaders in those states like it or not, the criminals are going to be rounded up and deported. And guess what, all the polls say that the overwhelming number of Americans ; whether they are Democrats, Republicans or Independents and a majority of every racial and ethnic group say they are in favor of Trump’s plans. The need for these steps could have been avoided if the country had real leaders during the last four years. But as the saying goes – better late than never and just in time.
SOUTH BOSTON TODAY
John Ciccone
Mitigating Opioid Deaths Needs Attention
While a substance use disorder bill sits in the Legislature, experts and advocates continue to band together to push for increased harm reduction efforts that could further decrease opioid overdose deaths with or without Beacon Hill’s help.
On Tuesday morning, the Massachusetts Health Policy Forum and RIZE Massachusetts hosted an event looking at the state’s harm reduction services, trends in opioid overdose death data, and a report suggesting new steps to decrease those mortality rates.
The report, completed by researchers from the Opioid Policy Research Collaborative at Brandeis University, lays out 10 recommendations for the state to minimize harm based on overdose death data gathered between 2022 and 2023. While Massachusetts saw overdose deaths fall by about 10 percent in that period, decreases weren’t uniform along racial, ethnic and geographic lines. Recent changes also continue to influence overdose deaths, including
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.
shifts in drug supply, the concentration and presence of fentanyl in drugs, and communities deploying harm reduction resources.
It’s not often that “you get a diverse group of people who are standing shoulder-to-shoulder on an issue,” Julie Burns, president and CEO of RIZE Massachusetts, told MASSterList. Tuesday’s event heard from an array of stakeholders including clinicians, lawmakers, business leaders and people with lived experience with substance use. Recommendations span from improving access to safe use supplies and authorizing community drug checking to piloting overdose prevention centers and expanding access to medication for opioid use disorder — all on a statewide scale. The report also matches those specific policy recommendations with larger-scale rethinks, like adjusting legal and police response to overdose and reaching younger Bay Staters with harm reduction-focused educational curricula.
The countdown is on. Burns said the report’s recommendations pro-
vide “a clear path forward” — one that advocates will maintain regardless of whether lawmakers choose to act on substance use disorder legislation this session. Should they not, Burns said the field already has its work cut out for it.
“We need to keep educating lawmakers and other stakeholders,” Burns said. “The data is there: harm reduction saves lives.”
It’s Boston teachers’ turn to speak Tonight, educators and community members from the Boston Teachers Union plan to testify at a Boston School Committee meeting in Roxbury about the union’s expired contract. The union wants higher teacher and paraprofessional pay, as well as “adequate time” from specialized staff in every BPS classroom. The union’s contract expired on Aug. 31. This ask comes directly after unionized teachers in Gloucester, Marblehead and Beverly went on strike for weeks demanding things like increased pay. While those groups all finally made it through negotiations last
week and have reached tentative agreements, BTU is still without an updated contract.
Newton mayor not running for reelection
After serving seven years in the role, Newton Mayor Ruthanne Fuller announced Tuesday she will not be running for reelection in 2025. Before being elected mayor, Fuller served as a Newton city councilor for eight years. In her announcement, Fuller said a main reason behind her choice to not run again is her desire to spend more time with her husband, children and grandchildren; she also encouraged Newton residents to get involved with public service.
Boston councilor subject of federal probe
Boston City Councilor Tania Fernandes Anderson is the subject of a federal probe, though the circumstances of the probe are unknown and no criminal charges have been filed, according to reports. The
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Councilor Flynn calls for a Hearing to Discuss
the Importance of the Cruise Industry in the City of Boston
Boston City Councilor Ed
will call for a hearing this week to discuss the importance of the
industry and its economic impact on the
of Boston. According to the Flynn
Cruiseport 2024 Economic Impact Report, Boston’s cruise industry grew significantly over the past six years, with a passenger count of over 480,000 passengers this year. This contributed $256 million to the economy, a 90 percent increase since 2018, and supported over 3,000 jobs, a 36 percent increase from 2018.
Recently, Massport also announced plans for a $100 million investment in the Cruiseport, $60 million of which will go towards infrastructure
advancements, including the installation of “ship-to-shore” power that will enable cruise ships to plug into electric power at shore while at berth in the South Boston Waterfront. This will reduce their diesel emissions and minimize pollution to the surrounding environment and community in South Boston.
“Boston is a city with a rich maritime history, and its port operations have always been vital to our local economy. As Boston’s cruise industry logs record-breaking passenger
visits, it is critical that we continue to support their work due to the significant impact on Boston’s economic vitality and opportunities created for our local businesses, restaurants, and hotels,” said Councilor Flynn. “I’m also proud that the Flynn Cruiseport is named in honor of my father, former Mayor Ray Flynn, as well as my family’s history with the maritime community in Bostonincluding both of my grandfathers who worked at the Port of Boston as proud union longshoremen.”
Flynn
cruise
City
MAYOR MICHELLE WU HOSTS THE 28TH ANNUAL ENCHANTED TROLLEY TOUR
Mayor Michelle Wu and the Mayor’s Office of Tourism, Sports and Entertainment today announced that the 28th Annual Enchanted Trolley Tour will take place this Saturday, December 7 and Sunday, December 8.
“We are thrilled for this year’s annual holiday trolley tour and tree lightings across the City,” said Mayor Michelle Wu. “The holiday season is a time for family, friends, and neighbors to celebrate together. I’m grateful to Bank of America and all our partners for ensuring that we are able to bring the joy of the holidays across our neighborhoods. I encourage residents and families to attend this weekend’s exciting events.”
The Mayor’s Enchanted Trolley Tour will continue the festive tradition of lighting holiday trees and Santa visits throughout Bos -
ton’s neighborhoods. This event is presented by Bank of America, and supported by CityView Trolley Tours. The Enchanted Trolley tour features visits from Santa, Mayor Wu, Office of Neighborhood Services staff, and more.
“The Enchanted Trolley Tour captures the magic of the holiday season, creating memorable experiences for Boston residents and visitors alike. Bank of America is excited to join Mayor Wu and the City of Boston in celebrating the festive spirit of the holidays by supporting the 2024 Enchanted Trolley Tour and Tree Lightings,” said Miceal Chamberlain, President, Bank of America Massachusetts. Sunday, December 8
* 1:00 p.m. — Adams Corner, Dorchester
* 2:00 p.m. — M Street Park, South Boston
* 3:00 p.m. — Beach Street and Harrison Ave, Chinatown
30th Annual Mayor’s Cup Ice Hockey Tournament begins on December 13
Youth hockey teams from across Boston will hit the ice to compete for the title of “Boston’s Best” at the 2024 Mayor’s Cup Ice Hockey Tournament. Hosted by the Boston Parks and Recreation Department with support from the Boston Bruins Foundation and P&G Gillette, this exciting event celebrates community, sportsmanship, and the city’s love for hockey.
The tournament begins December 13, with 136 games scheduled at eight different rinks throughout the city. Nearly 1,300 youth hockey players will participate from seven different programs: Allston-Brighton, S.C.O.R.E Boston, Charlestown, Dorchester, Hyde Park, Parkway, and South Boston. They will compete for the 30th Annual Mayor’s Cup in 16 different divisions.
“Youth sports like hockey play a vital role in building confidence, fostering teamwork, and keeping our young people healthy and active,” said Mayor Michelle Wu. “We’re excited to see so many young athletes from across Boston come together to represent their communities and play for the title of ‘Boston’s Best’ in ice hockey.”
Spectators can experience the tournament at these ice rinks: Bajko Rink, Hyde Park; The Edward T. Barry Rink, UMass Boston Dorchester; Murphy Rink, South Boston; O’Neil Rink, Charlestown; Reilly Rink, Brighton; Roche Arena, West Roxbury; Matthews Arena, Back Bay; and Conte Forum, Boston College.
The Mayor’s Cup would not be possible without the support of Boston College, the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR), the University of Massachusetts Boston, Northeastern University, and FMC Ice Sports. Thank you to all of the youth hockey directors, board members, coaches, parents, and athletes who take part.
For a full game schedule, go to boston.gov/sports. To stay updated with news, park improvements, and events, sign up for the Parks email list at bit.ly/Get-ParksEmails and follow @bostonparksdept on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.
Numbers continued from front page
Ariniello requested that the Council vote to set tax rates next Wednesday, despite those rates being unclear to the body and subject to change depending on whether the Senate approves the mayor’s tax shift bill.
State Sen. Nick Collins, a South Boston Democrat, had delayed a Senate vote on the mayor’s tax bill on Monday, in part, because he was awaiting certified valuation data from the city that he was expecting to emerge during the Council hearing.
Collins on Monday moved that the bill be “laid on the table,” which under the Senate’s rules immediately postpones any vote “without question” and without debate. He said he asked for the delay because the Senate had not yet seen final property valuation data, which the city had promised to provide earlier this fall.
In an interview, Collins said he’s heard from small business owners, commercial property owners, and residents across his district — which includes the Seaport, the South End, and a slice of the Back Bay — about their concerns over the plan. When asked why he hadn’t asked for data before the measure came up for a vote on Monday, Collins said the matter wasn’t before the Senate until now. “It wasn’t our turn to act,” Collins said. “We expected it the whole time.”
Collins said he hadn’t ruled out asking for another delay at the Senate’s scheduled session on Thursday, and would wait until he saw final, certified property valuation data. “I’m going to wait until I get the official data before I make the decision,” he said. “I have a lot of constituents who are concerned about this on all sides.”
“Though city officials refused to
Window continued from
Globe reports that federal authorities have sent subpoenas to City Hall, though public records requests to obtain documents related to the case have not been released for legal reasons. Fernandes Anderson has been at the center of a state ethics violation and accused of campaign finance offenses during her two-plus years on the council. She is serving her second term on the council and represents District 7, which spans Roxbury, Dorches-
share the data on new valuations submitted to the state at today’s Council hearing, they did indicate they anticipate a surplus from the new valuations,” Collins said in a statement. “Surplus funds should be directed toward residential tax relief, particularly for our seniors. In the interest of transparency and fiscal responsibility, the city needs to share their valuation data before action is taken on their plans to increase taxes.”
Ariniello laid out a tight turnaround for action to be taken on the mayor’s tax plan, saying that a further delay beyond Dec. 9 for Senate action, Dec. 10 for the governor’s signature and Dec. 11 for a Council vote to set tax rates, would impact the city’s timeline for sending out tax bills by the end of December.
Uncertainty around concrete numbers to support those two scenarios drew a sharp exchange between City Councilor Erin Murphy and Ariniello, after Murphy asked Ariniello to share the city’s updated property valuation data, saying that the “State House held off a vote yesterday because they’re waiting for the real numbers.” Ariniello said that he was still relatively comfortable with the projections the city released earlier this fall, he insisted that providing updated information that hasn’t been finalized and certified by the Department of Revenue would be premature.
“Releasing what I think are the final numbers before they give their final approval is a little bit like me saying they don’t matter and I very much don’t believe that” Ariniello said, adding that an early release of the data would be “creating a situation for people to poke and create uncertainty.” Murphy countered by saying that councilors “deserve that
ter, the South End and Fenway.
The story behind Mattapoisett’s cranberry bog-turned-wetland Buzzard Bay Coalition recently completed a 15-year restoration effort to retire old cranberry bogs off Acushnet Road in Mattapoisett and return them to their former state: freshwater wetlands and native grasslands. The Light’s Adam Goldstein tells the story of how the new nature preserve, named “The Bogs,” came to be, how it will aid
information” given the rarity of the tax shift they’re being asked to vote on, should the legislation pass and give Boston the authority to tax businesses beyond the 175% state limit for the first time in 20 years.
The mayor has stated the aim of the legislation is to fend off a 28% quarterly and 14% annual tax hike for homeowners, although Ariniello provided a broader potential quarterly tax hike range of 20-30% for January bills during the hearing.
If the Senate were to not act on the legislation before the Council vote on Dec. 11, Ariniello said he would “advocate for the Council to implement the shift at 175% to create what stability we can and move on to fight another fight.”
Late yesterday, a city spokesperson said the state Department of Revenue had certified Boston’s property valuation data and the city was sharing the data with the Senate. The results of the
the ecosystem and help filter water moving into the nearby Mattapoisett River, and the new features people can expect of the $2.8M restoration project in the coming seasons and years.
What is the World Affairs Council of Western Massachusetts?
The Gazette’s Alexa Lewis looks at the role of a little-known local institution, the World Affairs Council of Western Massachusetts, and how it has been connecting
certified data validate Collins’ concern that the budget gap and the real estate valuations were questionable. Commercial real estate values are down 5% and residential values are up 3%.
Consequently, if the tax bill doesn’t pass, residential taxpayers will see an annual increase of 11% which is in line with past years and commercial rates will remain as is. If it does pass, residential rates will go up 5.5%. It has become clearer that Mayor Wu’s home rule petition tactic is a political and not a policy ploy, setting up the narrative that she has reduced taxes in advance of her 2026 reelection campaign. In her wake, she may further damage the viability of not only the downtown Boston economy and values but burden the commercial businesses and restaurants and by extension their customer base.
Today’s action in the Massachusetts State Senate will likely shed light on the politics of politics.
people in the region to the rest of the world for decades. The nonpartisan nonprofit was founded in Springfield in 1926 by presidents of Mount Holyoke and Smith Colleges — a response to trends toward isolationism and xenophobia throughout the American public following World War I. The organization continues to encourage things like learning events and regional participation in the U.S. State Department’s International Visitor Leadership Program.
Guy The Wine Austria
Austria has a 4000-year history of viticulture, but it wasn’t until the mid-’80s before they
started making high-quality wine for world consumption. Surely the wine producers of today hate to be reminded of the “anti-freeze scandal” of 1985 which accused certain winemakers of adding diethylene glycol to their wines to impart sweetness and body.
Once the media and public found out that diethylene glycol is commonly found in antifreeze, the Austrian wine industry completely tanked. Yet, there was good to come of this scandal.
As producers rebuilt the image and quality of Austrian wines, they created a foundation that has put them at the top of the heap with regard to laws and regulations, innovation, quality, investment, and technology.
The Best White Wines of Austria
What grape comes to mind when thinking of Austria? Perhaps Gruner Veltliner since it is the most widely planted and most important white grape in Austrian wine production. This typically dry, melon and pearscented wine shows hints of savory tones like lentil and white pepper. However, this grape is capable of greatness and can range in style from light and lean to rich, intense, and exotic.
It all depends on the region and the style of the producer. Most of the value Gruner Veltliner wines will fall into the category of light, and crisp.
Other white varieties of note would include Riesling, which is dry, minerally, and delicious. Grapes like Welschriesling, Weissburgunder, Neuberger, Roter Veltliner, Rotgipfler, and Zierfandler are all delicious in their own right, but less known in the US.
The Best Red Wines of Austria
Some of the red wines of Austria include Zweigelt, Blaufrankish, Pinot Noir, and Blauer Portugieser. Many of the Austrian red grapes are hybrids or a crossing of two varieties. Zweigelt (a crossing of Blaufrankish and St. Laurent) is the most widely planted and is capable of making outstanding wines as long as the yields remain relatively low.
Blaufrankish has fewer plantings country-wide, but in the region of Mittelburgenland, this grape truly hits its apex. Pinot Noir from the Thermen Region can be exciting and a delicious alternative to the highpriced wines of Burgundy.
The Austrian wine labels may still
trouble the average wine buyer but try to be adventurous and understand that it’s all pretty simple. The actual classifications mirror those of Germany (which is not exactly easy), but the wines are dryer in style.
There are, of course, the exotic and deliciously sweet wines from the shores of Lake Neuseidl on the border of Hungary. This shallow body of water provides the perfect climate for the botrytis cinerea spore to grow on the grapes which extract moisture and concentrate the sugar.
Generally speaking, it’s typically easy to find a delicious, crisp, refreshing GrunerVeltliner or Riesling from the Kremstal, Kamptal, Wagram, Traisental, or Weinviertel regions.
The Wachau has its own three-tier classification system: Steinfeder, Federspiel, and Smaragd.
The style of wine goes from lightest to fullest, with the must weights and alcohol levels being higher going from Steinfeder to Smaragd. Again, all of these wines are dry with a very pronounced granitic mineral tone and ripe tree fruit character. They can be unbelievably delicious and exciting to enjoy with food.
KEEP WIPES OUT OF PIPES
“FLUSHABLE” WIPES CAN CLOG YOUR PIPES
Wipes that claim to be “flushable” and “sewer safe” in fact are not sewer friendly. Unlike toilet paper, wipes do not break down as they travel through pipes and the public sewer system. Wipes can cause backups in your home plumbing and can cause sewer overflows in the street.
Don’t flush wipesPlace them in the trash after use!
2024 SBSHOF Scholarship Trust Fund Scholarship Awardees
The South Boston Sports Hall of Fame Scholarship Trust Fund hosted the annual scholarship award ceremony on Friday, November 29 at the Curley Community Center (L Street Bathhouse).
This year, they awarded a record-breaking 21 scholarships to 20 high school seniors and one 8th grade student, which included one non-degree scholarship for a trade school. Also included in these 21 scholarships was one $5,000 Scholar-Athlete scholarship, awarded in honor of the late founder and Board leader, Ed Buccigross.
Since its inception as a non-profit in 1995, they have awarded 270 students each a scholarship, totaling $466,000 in grants. Their success is due to the support of the Boston community, vital sponsors, and the local Boston businesses and organizations, to whom they are extremely grateful.
Please follow the SBSHOFSTF on Facebook to stay up to date with their annual events and fundraisers at www.facebook.com/southbostonhalloffame, and email them at southbostonhalloffame@gmail.com.
LEFTERIS MARKOS. It’s one thing to organize an event, it’s another to start a tradition and galvanize a community. Lefteris Markos has done just that. Having founded “Southie Slapfest” over 6 years ago, to raise money for Parkinson’s disease in honor of his grandmother, Lefteris has now changed the community for the better. Lefteris is attending the University of Massachusetts, Dartmouth and is receiving the South Boston Sport Hall of Fame
Trust Fund Scholarship Grant.
CAITLIN MCDONOUGH. A 3.99 GPA at the prestigious Boston Latin School and BLS Outstanding Female Athlete for the year, should be more than enough to fill out her resume, but Caitlin has been so much more. She was Team MVP Lacrosse, Team MVP Soccer, Eastern Mass All-Star 2nd Team, Lacrosse Dual County All-Star and the list goes on. Caitlin was born to
lead and win, but she was also born to care and connect with others. She has enjoyed coaching and mentoring not only her own BLS underclassmen and peers, but also feels compelled to help and support those whom she comes in contact with daily. Caitlin is attending Syracuse University and is receiving the Amazon Scholarship Grant.
MAEVE MURRY. It’s difficult to be selected as a Captain for a team, it’s more difficult to be selected as a junior and even more difficult to be a captain in a second sport Maeve has done all that. She was selected from her peers and above her seniors to serve as the Boston Latin School Girls Hockey team captain as a junior and a senior and also captained the girl’s lacrosse team. Maeve is a natural leader who loved teaching the young sailors at the Harry McDonough program and immersing herself in the Learn to Skate Program and all the activities at the Murphy Rink. Maeve is attending St Anselm College and is receiving the Ed and Pat Sheehy Memorial Scholarship Grant, sponsored by Ed Sheey.
TRISTAN PECEVICH. (not in attendance)
A 4.0 GPA student at BC High, Tristan is the quintessential applicant. He is an incredibly well-rounded, multi-sport athlete, participating in five sports, winning a state championship in baseball and acted and worked on the set for the school musical. But behind all that external energy and activity is a deeply caring and empathetic young man. Tristan showed his compassion for others while serving as a tutor and coach in programs such as Tenacity and Hole in the Wall, but he really grew as a young man and learned to be “A man for others,” while helping care for his sister Sydni. Tristan is attending University of San Diego and is receiving the
Babe Ruth Baseball/L St. Brownies Scholarship Grant.
ELLA WELCH
Ella learned well at Boston Latin Academy about giving back to her community as she was an integral part of the “Kick Off For Kids” flag football tournament. This program directly benefited families in need stressing basic necessities such as clothing and food. Her commitment and activism to ensure every individual receives support is commendable. Ella is attending the University of Miami and is receiving the Kevin Dwyer Memorial Scholarship, sponsored by Michael Sheehy.
COURTNEY MCGINN. Doing small gestures of kindness can make a large impact. As Southie recovered from the COVID lockdowns, Courtney volunteered with the South Boston Neighborhood House to encourage families to reconnect with daycare and play activities. She canvassed South Boston distributing flyers, setting up information stations to answer and questions and mitigate people’s fears and concerns. Courtney also played a role in the very successful Kick Off For Kids fundraiser, distributing water and snacks for the players. Courtney is attending Fordham University and is receiving the City of Boston Planning and Development Agency Scholarship.
GREGORY MATTHEWS. Greg Matthews is playing Div 1 Rugby at Fairfield University. He was a leader on Boston College High School’s State Championship team, played football, threw discus and excelled in the classroom but his significant accomplishment…cleaning sidelines, carrying balls, getting water. “No task was every beneath Greg,” wrote his coach Paul Carty. Even with all his success, Greg was still a humble servant leader who did whatever the team needed. We need more Greg Matthews. Greg is
receiving the Folan Family Memorial Scholarship Grant.
CALEIGH HOULIHAN. While Caleigh was a tutor at the Boston Latin Academy Volunteer Tutor Program, she hearkens back to her time at the Perry School as the highlight of her teaching and mentoring experiences. Caleigh enjoyed the diverse opportunities available in the Boston Public Schools and had a particular affinity for working in the special needs classrooms. Caleigh is attending Bridgewater State University and is receiving the Patrick Folan Memorial Scholarship Grant.
MADISON JONES. (not in attendance)
Madison has served as a bridge to generations. While volunteering at the South Boston Neighborhood House, she built relationships with the elderly, enjoyed having lunch with them and listening to their stories. And just down the street she dedicated over 40 hours of time at St. Peters working in the pre-Kindergarten classroom as a teacher’s assistant. Madison has appreciated two of Southie’s greatest gifts: its seniors, full of wisdom and its youth full of hope and promise. Madison is attending Curry College and is receiving the City of Boston Planning & Development Agency Scholarship Grant.
HALIEGH HOLMES. It’s not often that we see high school students who have the maturity to live intentionally – to control their own path on their terms. Haielgh’s bold move to transfer to Hebron Academy in Maine for her senior year is an example of her charting her own course. She wanted to play hockey – but showed that team more than her skills – she showed them her character and leadership. And as we would expect, during her first season playing hockey for Hebron she won the coveted Lumberjack Award for her dedication, teamwork and leadership. Along the way, Haliegh has dedicated many years to the YMCA of Greater Boston as a camp leader in New Hampshire and as teaching assistant in Boston Public Schools. Haliegh is studying nursing at Quinnipiac University and is receiving the South Boston Sports Hall of Fame Trust Fund Scholarship Grant.
THOMAS HARNAN. It is often said that it’s not what you do when times are good, but how you respond to hardships….are you resilient? Can you persevere? Thomas Harnan is and has. A gritty and talented hockey player with great potential had to overcome a season ending injury at Boston Latin School – but he continued to be an inspiration for his team. This inner strength was likely formed
during his early days in South Boston, playing a full range of sports, winning and competing and learning from leaders the Learn To Skate Program. Thomas beautifully balanced his love for sports, but serving in the Gate of Heaven/ St Bridget’s parish volunteering for food drives, service trips and grounds maintenance. Thomas is attending the University of Delaware and is receiving the South Boston Sports Hall of Fame Trust Fund Scholarship Grant.
PATRICK HARNAN. When a coach of 20 years says you are one of the strongest captains he has seen, that has some serious weight. Patrick has excelled on the ice at Boston Latin School and then at Brewster Academy – rising to the top player on his team, one of the top players in the state and being selected to play in the Mass Senior All-Star Game. But as his coach noted, it is his leadership that is most impressive. Patrick is attending University of Maryland / College Park and is receiving the City of Boston Planning & Development Agency Scholarship.
ALEXANDER FUCILE. The U.S. Army – an organization that is built around creating leaders - subscribes to 11 leadership principles – the first and arguably most important is “Know Yourself and Seek Self
Improvement.” Alex Fucilie embodies this. His hockey coach at Bridgton Academy noted, “…the main topic of conversation tends to be his growth in maturity as the year has moved along.” Taking a PG year is an example of knowing yourself and taking extra steps to improve whether academically or athletically. Back home in Southie, Alex is also pushing to do more teaching CCD at St Bridget’s, volunteering at a local soup kitchen and preparing meals for those in need. Alex is attending Bryant University and is receiving the MassPort Scholarship Grant.
LIANA FLOOD. Sporting an exceptional 4.83 GPA at Dexter Southfield and scoring an incredible 1510 on the SAT, Liana Flood can absolutely be labeled a “scholar.” But that is only a part of her story. Liana is a perennial Captain of her Cross Country team, and multiple Coaches Award winner for Track and Swim. Liana developed her passion for running through the Youth Enrichment Services Track and Field Program at Moakley Park – a program she has returned to as a volunteer coach. When not on the track, Liana can be found further coaching and volunteering on the ski slopes via YES, bringing the same positive leadership and coaching to the next generation. Liana is the University of Georgia/ Morehead Honors College and is
receiving the Bob Nichols Memorial Scholarship Grant.
MYA DONOVAN. Mya was a captain – a leader – way before she earned the title. In her first year at Boston Collegiate Charter School Varsity Volleyball, she earned the coveted Coaches Award, recognizing her relentless drive for improvement and growth. During her second year, as an underclassmen, she led her team through tough situations in their first year in the MIAA. Beyond the court, Mya was a founder of the Principals Council providing student insight to the principal. Her leadership in high school was formed during her time as an altar server and volunteer at Gate of Heaven. Mya is attending East Carolina University and is receiving the City of Boston Planning & Development Agency Scholarship Grant.
LAUREN CHIN. Lauren wrote in her essay, “…when I come back from school, I hope I am able to continue making new connections with the
younger kids and helping families all around South Boston.” Coming back and giving back are South Boston things. Lauren learned the importance of giving back while supporting trips, events and programs such as Cradles to Crayons. This volunteer spirit was built upon a foundation of discipline, respect and love of other people formed at Ms Linda’s Dance. Lauren is attending the University of Mississippi and is receiving the Amazon Scholarship Grant.
MARIO BLASI. Like many South Boston youth, Mario took advantage of the incredible resources available to the Community. Mario spent many days at the Murphy Rink participating in his favorite sport, hockey…but also sharing his knowledge with the younger members in Learn to Skate. Beyond the rink, Mario took advantage of the programs offered at the Tynan Community Center – working but also volunteering in many ways to support the programs. Mario is attending Sacred Heart University and
is receiving the John Cunniff Memorial Scholarship Grant.
ROBERT BANKS. (NOT ATTENDING)
Bobby Banks is a winner. The Hockey Captain and State Champion at Boston Latin school, knows how to perform when those around him need him, scoring 5 goals and 5 assists during the teams State Championship run – this is what leaders do – rise to the occasion and lead their teams to victory. Beyond Bobby’s hockey skills, Bobby was recognized with the BLS Hobey Baker Award recognizing his character and leadership. Bobby attributes his success to the lessons bestowed during Learn to Skate and serving as a volunteer coach. South Boston doesn’t just produce athletes it produces leaders who can get the job done –Bobby is an example of that. He is attending the University of Alabama and is receiving the Amazon Scholarship Grant.
NON-DEGREE SCHOLARSHIP
For years we have advertised this scholarship as not just for college bound seniors – we have always supported those who intend to enter the trades or pursue a non-degree, alternative path. This year we were excited to receive an application from Millie Hynes.
MILLIE HYNES. Millie Hynes is a people person – she connects, she cares and feels compelled to help. Whether volunteering to coach the younger basketball players or babysitting, Millie gives back to South Boston. Millie is also a worker –working a Deja Vu and continuing her education and training, Millie is able to build relationships with folks from around the community. But her work extends beyond those as she and her mom help Déjà vu provide meals to the needy. Millie is going to thrive as a hairdresser, where she can connect with people, bring them some joy and I am sure some day open her own business
and contribute to Southies thriving economy. Millie is attending Collective Hairdressing Academy and is receiving the South Boston Sports Hall of Fame Trust Fund Scholarship Grant.
8TH GRADE SCHOLARSHIP
As I mentioned before, this year we expanded our scholarship offering to include rising 9th graders to help with the cost of high school tuition. Our first 8th grade awardee is Liam Long.
LIAM LONG. Liam feels an obligation to be a role model for the younger kids – in fact, he is serving as a role model for us. While many adults of today lament the state of a distracted generation –rest assured we are in good stead – Liam is watching and learning from the generations of men around him. Liam is a proud coach at learn to skate at the Murphy Rink and earnestly delivers meals
with his Dad through St Monica’s. Through each he has learned the power that small actions have on others. He has taken a particular interest in supporting the Perkin’s Post as the post wreaths at Southie’s Hero Squares, where he has reflected upon the sacrifice of those who’ve gone before him. Liam is a wise young man with a bright future. Liam attends St. Sebastian’s School is receiving the Amazon Scholarship Grant.
ED BUCCIGROSS SCHOLARSHIP
And finally…. our final and most cherished award - the Ed Buccigross Memorial Scholar-Athlete Scholarship. This $5,000 scholarship recognizes our overall top applicant, one embodies what Ed Buccigross was: athlete, scholar, servant of others. This year’s winner of the Ed Buccigross ScholarAthlete Scholarship is:
TEAGAN FITZGERALD.
“When everyone in a community
pitches in, it makes a big difference,” these words from Teagan’s grandfather could not be truer and they have certainly resonated with Teagan. Her work across South Boston has affected the young and old alike. Whether supervising the camper safety and organizing daily schedules at the Curley Community Center or making over 1700 cards for hospice and elderly at the Hiatt Center, she found a way to make a difference. Unsurprisingly, Teagan is a “take action” type of young
leader, founding Female Activists and Allies, leading White Students Against Racism and serving as President of the Student Advisory Council at Beaver Country Day School. Beyond the classroom, Teagan is an All-American Lacrosse Player, basketball and volleyball captain, earning honors in each. Tegan is taking her talent and leadership to Columbia University. This year’s Ed Buccigross $5000 Scholar - Athlete Scholarship Grant is awarded to Teagan Fitzgerald.
Congratulations again to all our awardees!
South Boston Catholic Academy
“Balloons Over East
Just before we were getting ready to celebrate Thanksgiving with our families, the children at South Boston Catholic Academy participated in a “Balloons Over East Broadway” coding parade in STEM class. The first grade students completed an introductory unit on coding with focus on foundational concepts such as sequencing (following steps in order), looping (repetition), and conditional statements (clear and concise directions). The students then used Botley robots as an interactive tool to learn basic
Broadway”
programming concepts.
Our final project was our “Balloons Over Broadway” coding parade. The Students designed their very own balloon animal float which was attached to their robot. They had to build a sequence and code their Botley robot down the parade route-,with a banner sized replica of East Broadway! We of course had to include our school and some of our favorite local establishments on East Broadway. This project would not be made possible without our STEM Teach-
er, Ms. Lauren Monaghan, and our Art Teacher, Mrs. Valerie Hasko. Mrs. Hasko made the beautiful banner and parade route of East Boardway. The K1 students, also, did a fantastic job with their version of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade using the “Balloons Over Broadway” theme. Thank you to their wonderful teachers, Mrs. Erin Finn, Mrs. Susan Donovan, Ms. Deidre McDougall, Mrs. Ryan Barett and our very talented Art Teacher, Mrs. Valerie Hasko, for making this Thanksgiving Day Parade possible. On the Wednesday before we left to be with our families, our Student Council members wonderfully led the school in a Thanksgiving Prayer Service. Our student council presi-
What to Watch
dent read the final prayer...”Thank you God for this bounty which we are about to receive this Thanksgiving. We are grateful for each other, and to be present at school today. Have a peaceful and restful Thanksgiving break. Amen.” Thank you to our wonderful Student Council and Ms. Stephanie Olsen, the Student Council Adviser. We hope everyone had a Wonderful Thanksgiving! Now it is the Advent season and a time of preparation and anticipation for Christians to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ at Christmas. New families are welcome to email our admissions team at admissions@sbcatholicadacademy.org for more info. about South Boston Catholic Academy.
THANK YOU SOUTH BOSTON CATHOLIC ACADEMY
Aspecial THANK YOU to the 5th GRADE CLASS at South Boston Catholic Academy for the beautiful handmade ‘Happy
As the losing continues, I thought I’d send you into the bye week with Jerod Mayo’s postgame press conference from Sunday’s loss to the Indianapolis Colts.
There’s really nothing to see here. We just sit back and wait for the Draft.
But here’s what Mayo had to say before taking off for the bye:
JEROD MAYO: Obviously a tough game. I just told the guys, again, I know I sound redundant – we’re doing a of things that are good. We just need to be more consistent. I would say penalties and, look, it’s about us. Penalties continue to show up, both operational and post-snap, which we’ve got to do a better job of. I would also say just our red area in general. Our red area offense I think we were 1 for 6. Our red area defense, we weren’t able to stop them there. That’s really the game. You talk about on special teams, the missed field goal. I thought we handled the situations the right way, the way we wanted to, and we gave ourselves a chance to win. Gave ourselves a chance to win at the end. Fire away.
Q: You mentioned some good
things from your team today. On that 19 play, 80-yard drive, how disappointing was it? You had three fourth down conversions allowed and just not being able to make a play, and plus the two-point conversion?
JM: Yes, very disappointing. They obviously ran the ball relatively well. We just didn’t make the stops that we need to. Look, that’s the NFL. That’s the NFL. We say it every week. It’s that one play here, that one play there. That extended drive definitely hurt, and then those guys going for two and couldn’t keep them out.
Q: What went into the decision at the end to try the 68yard field goal versus going for a Hail Mary there?
JM: That was 100% me. Look, [Joey] Slye was hitting it well in pregame, and I felt that that was the best thing to do to help our team win the football game. Not sure what the numbers are on Hail Marys versus the field goal there, but that’s what I felt was right.
Q: Coach, was there any thought to taking a time-out maybe before earlier in the drive where the Colts ultimately scored, and what was the
This week, Danny shared his thoughts on the New England Patriots as they enter their bye week in Week 14:
thought process there?
JM: Absolutely, there was a thought. We have also won a Super Bowl here doing it the other way. Keeping our time-outs is what I thought was best for the team.
Q: What did you see on Drake Maye’s interception down at the goal line to Hunter Henry?
JM: The one that just bounced around a little bit? Look, it’s just unfortunate. Again, just in the red area in general I would say from the entire game we just weren’t good enough. As the field starts to contract like that, I mean, the details and everyone has to be on the same page, and we just didn’t do well enough.
Q: On the 25-yard attempt by Joey Slye that he missed earlier in the game, it looked like after the kick he looked down in frustration or disbelief at something. What went wrong? Was there something with the operation there, or was it just a missed kick?
JM: Just a miss-hit. Nothing with the operation. It was a miss-hit.
Q: It seemed like you had I think it was a season high rushing yards today on offense. Just what went into the
run game, and why was it able to be so successful?
JM: I’ve said all along we have good backs, and we just have to get them started. I would say just the mentality. If we don’t have a good running game, it starts up front. The same thing here. It starts up front. I thought Layden [Robinson] actually went out there and moved some bodies, and his physicality definitely showed up. The entire offensive line. That’s good to see. Just have to keep it going.
Q: You mentioned penalties off the top. What’s happening in the process that’s leading up to the result on Sundays where you continue to have issues like that?
JM: Look, we know with this crew the first – I think we had them the first Miami game. They threw ten holding penalties between the two teams. So we went into the game knowing that’s one of the calls that they make a lot. It just comes down to, look, some of them obviously were questionable, but they called them, and we just have to fix those mistakes.
Follow Danny on instagram @ DannyPicard.
SPORTS TODAY
PATRIOTS FOCUS ON BUILDING NEW TRAINING FACILITY
The New England Patriots enter the bye week with a 3-10 record, having lost three straight, and having already been eliminated from playoff contention. The only question now is, “What draft pick will the Patriots get?”
However, it seems the organization has another question they’re focused on answering. And that’s, “How do we improve our practice facility?”
The Pats announced, this week, that they’ll begin construction on a new practice facility that is expected to be ready before the 2026 NFL season.
Before you get to the press-release details of that construction, it should be acknowledged that the Patriots can still accomplish something on the field this season, while practicing in their current facility.
After this weekend’s bye, the Pats will close out the season in Arizona, in Buffalo, at home against the Chargers, and at home against Buffalo.
It will continue to be a great oppor-
Tweet of the Week
tunity for rookie quarterback Drake Maye, who’s thrown 11 touchdowns this season, with eight interceptions, totaling 1,696 pass yards. He’s also rushed for 345 yards and has one rushing touchdown.
In New England’s 25-24 loss to the Colts on Sunday, Maye was 24-of-30 for 238 pass yards with one touchdown and one interception. He’s good, but he definitely still has some work to do. Still, even after a loss, his teammates were raving about him once again.
“That throw to Austin Hooper was one-of-one,” said Patriots wide receiver Kendrick Bourne after Sunday’s loss to the Colts. “I don’t know how he saw that, but where he put it was phenomenal. Even the 41-yard scramble was impressive but I’m just glad he’s playing well. I’m glad to be playing with him and I can’t wait to see his future growth.”
That future growth, as we now know, will also take place inside a brand new practice facility. So, here’s the full press release on that:
FOXBOROUGH – If you’re headed to Gillette Stadium for one of the Patriots last two home games later this month you might notice the start of a construction project near the team’s current practice fields. Following their work on the redesign of Gillette Stadium’s north end, the Kraft Group has again contracted
Suffolk Construction to begin work on a brand-new, stand-alone training facility for the exclusive use of the football team.
The three-level structure will more than double the square footage of the team’s current footprint located inside Gillette Stadium. While the day-to-day activities will primarily be spent in and around the new center, the core pieces for the team’s gameday needs, including their stadium locker room, will remain intact.
“The whole project is designed around the players and the player experience,” explained Kraft Sports and Entertainment Chief Operating Officer Jim Nolan. “As teams and team operations have grown, it was time for us to design a larger facility exclusively for the operation of the football team. The main floor is designed for where the players will work out, train, rehab, relax, and eat. The top floor is designed for where players and coaches will watch game film, strategize and meet.”
The training center has been designed by global architectural firm and long-time Kraft Group partner Populous, who specializes in sports facilities at both the collegiate and professional levels, with crucial input from every facet of football operations, including coaches, players, training staff, and other
internal personnel.
Upon arrival through a two-story foyer, the nutrition center will be the first thing players see when they arrive in the morning and last thing they see when they leave.
Adjacent to nutrition is a player lounge and an enlarged, openspace locker room connected to an expanded weight room that will open directly onto three redesigned practice fields. The facility will also feature training rooms with a significant expansion of “hydro” capabilities, to include hot tubs, cold plunge tubs, a pool and an underwater treadmill.
The building will house all football administration offices and meeting rooms, as well as cutting-edge virtual reality rooms.
The personnel offices will include a conference room featuring new technologies for hosting the annual draft operations.
The ground floor of the building will be home to the media workroom, providing easy access to the team’s practice fields and locker room.
The Kraft Group’s Vice President of Construction, Dan Krantz, who played a significant role in the construction of Gillette Stadium is serving as one of the principals coordinating this development and said the timeline for construction has a targeted completion date of Spring 2026.