Senator Collins Wins Key Amendments in Mass Ready Act Delivers Investments for Community Assests in Boston
Measures deliver targeted investments for coastal resilience, infrastructure, and community assets in Boston
Last week, Senator Nick Collins secured several key amendments in the Senate’s passage of the Mass Ready Act, a major environmental bond bill focused on strengthening climate resilience, protecting natural resources, and supporting communities across Massachusetts.
The legislation—S.3050, An Act to build resilience for Massachusetts communities— authorizes $3.94 billion in investments to address climate change, improve water infrastructure, and expand access to outdoor recreation, while also advancing policies to reduce pollution and increase
environmental protections.
“In a district like mine, where our communities are closely tied to the coastline, we see firsthand why now is the time to prepare for the realities of climate change,” said Senator Collins. “That means making real investments in resilience so people can continue to live and work along our waterfront with confidence. These are important wins for the First Suffolk, and they strengthen a coastline that communities across Massachusetts rely on.”
The Senate’s Mass Ready Act includes major statewide investments, including $500 million for the Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness program, $120 million for PFAS remediation in drinking water, and $50 million for MassTrails grants to expand recreational access.
In addition to these statewide
initiatives, Senator Collins secured amendments to direct funding and resources to critical projects across the First Suffolk district and the City of Boston, including:
•South Boston Community Health Center
Secures $200,000 for the acquisition of electric vehicle vans and installation of charging infrastructure to support community-based health services.
•Boston Water and Sewer Commission Projects
Directs $2.5 million for resiliency and stormwater discharge projects in South Boston and Dorchester, including support for the Reserve Channel Storm Surge Barrier.
•Boston Children’s Museum
Provides $1 million for climate resiliency and preservation efforts, including infrastructure upgrades to address climate impacts along the Fort Point Channel.
•Old Harbor Reservation
Secures $1 million for maintenance and improvements across the Old Harbor Reservation, including Dahill Rest infrastructure, Kelly’s Landing, Castle Island, the World War II Memorial, the Admiral David Farragut statue, a satellite horse barn for the State Police mounted unit and Columbia Road.
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Skin Cancer Prevention Starts Early – and Matters at Every Age
Submitted by Margaret Lynch
Skin cancer prevention is important for every person at every age. Whether it’s a kid on the playground, a teen on the sports field or an adult working in the yard, we all need to take steps to protect our skin from the sun.
May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month—a time to learn about this disease, how to prevent it and detect it early for better outcomes. Despite being one of the most preventable cancers, skin cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in the United States.
Although the exact number is unknown, it is estimated that more than five million people in the United States are diagnosed with the more common types of skin cancer—either basal cell or squamous cell carcinoma—
each year. An estimated 112,000 U.S. adults will be diagnosed with melanoma, the deadliest type of skin cancer, in 2026. In Massachusetts alone, an estimated 1,370 will be diagnosed with melanoma this year. Anyone, regardless of skin color, may develop skin cancer. Although skin cancers are less common in people with darker skin, when they occur, they are often diagnosed at more advanced stages when they are harder to treat.
Fortunately, you can take steps to reduce your risk of skin cancer. Most cases are caused by exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. Wear clothing, hats and sunglasses that block UV rays, and apply broad spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher daily—even on cloudy days. If you can, stay out of the sun when
the UV rays are most intense (generally between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.). Indoor tanning is not safe and should be avoided.
It’s a good idea to have a health care provider examine your skin every year. When found early, most skin cancers can be treated successfully. Unfortunately, more than 50% of U.S. adults are not up to date or are unsure if they are up to date on their skin cancer check, according to the Prevent Cancer Foundation’s 2026 Early Detection Survey. If this is you, make an appointment with your health care provider or dermatologist today.
You should also check your own skin monthly to look for possible signs of skin cancer.
Use the ABCDEs of skin cancer to help you when examining your skin for suspicious moles:
• Asymmetry
• Border irregularity
• Color that is not uniform
•Diameter greater than 6mm
• Evolving, size, shape or color
See a health care provider if you notice any changes in size, shape or elevation of a mole, or any new symptoms such as bleeding, itching or crusting. Learn more at www.preventcancer.org/skin.
Margaret Lynch is the spouse of Rep. Stephen Lynch and a member of the Prevent Cancer Foundation’s Congressional Families® Program.
Advocating for Affordable Housing
South Boston
NDC attended the Massachusetts Association of Community Development Corporations (MACDC) Lobby Day at the State House. The South Boston NDC contingent of Executive Director Donna Brown, board members Bob Monahan and Facundo Coitino-Lopez, and
Development & Communications Director Ginger DeShaney attended the inspiring program in the Hall of Flags. Then most of the group met with State Senator Nick Collins (along with Asian Community Development Corporation’s Angie Liou) and State Representative David Biele to discuss legislative issues that affect affordable housing.
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•Southwest Corridor Park
Provides $1 million for park maintenance and improvements, including resurfacing, signage, and greenspace investments.
•Nature-Based Coastal Research
Directs $1 million for waterfront and Boston Harbor Islands research and monitoring projects,
including support for the Stone Living Lab.
•Boston Harborwalk
Secures $350,000 for public safety improvements, including the installation of life ring cabinets at key locations along the Harborwalk.
•Park Improvements and Community Investments
Secures $450,000 for improvements at Reggie Wong Memorial Park, the Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway, and Town Field Park.
Senator Collins also co-sponsored an amendment to strengthen oversight of water infrastructure needs across the Commonwealth by enhancing the role of the Water Infrastructure Advisory Committee, ensuring continued evaluation of funding gaps,
environmental compliance costs, and long-term infrastructure planning.
The bill also includes a range of policy reforms aimed at reducing pollution and improving environmental protections, including restrictions on single-use plastic bags, expanded disclosure of flood risks, and expedited timelines for climateresilient infrastructure projects.
The Mass Ready Act now moves to the House of Representatives for consideration.
City of Boston Celebrates Autism with Expansion of Adaptive Swim Inititive to Support Young People
Boston Centers for Youth & Families (BCYF) in partnership with the City of Boston’s Office of Human Services announced the latest investment in the City’s Adaptive Swim initiative. This citywide effort works to make swim instruction and pool time welcoming, safe, and accessible for youth of all abilities by providing specialized training to aquatics staff and creating dedicated spaces in BCYF pools for youth with disabilities. The initiative is funded with support from Boston Children’s Hospital.
“The Adaptive Swim initiative removes the sensory and instructional barriers that keep many of our youth on the sidelines,” said Marta E. Rivera, Commissioner of Boston Centers for Youth & Families. “We’re not just teaching kids to swim, we’re creating an environment where every child, no matter how they learn or what they need, feels safe, included, and able to enjoy our city’s pools.”
Drowning is one of the leading causes of death for children ages 1-4 according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Research shows that children with autism are up to 160 times more likely to drown compared to their neurotypical peers, making swim lessons
for this group a public health imperative. Yet, the children who would benefit most from swim instruction often face barriers in traditional swim environments.
“We believe that everyone deserves to feel safe and confident in the water,” said José F. Massó, Chief of Human Services. “The Adaptive Swim initiative centers safety and inclusion and works to ensure Boston’s pools are welcoming spaces for swimmers who learn and engage in different ways.
The Adaptive Swim initiative offers sensory-friendly open swim sessions at BCYF pools that provide trained staff to support families during unstructured, family-focused pool time. Adaptive lessons are structured around individual goals and progression is based on a swimmer’s comfort level, confidence, and demonstrated abilities. The program is designed to remove barriers common in traditional swim environments. In adaptive swim settings, students benefit from smaller class sizes so instructors can connect one-on-one with students to provide personalized support. Adaptive swim instructors also know how to modify their lesson structure, communication methods, and skill progression plans to better suit student needs.
“Boston Children’s Hospital
is proud to support the Adaptive Swim initiative,” said Shari Nethersole, MD, Vice President for Community Health and Engagement at Boston Children’s Hospital. “We commend the City for building the capacity of its aquatics staff in this way – a key step towards ensuring every child is safe in and around water.”
Over the last two years, BCYF invested in training their water safety instructors in adaptive swim techniques through the Swim Whisperers® program. The training, led by Swim Angelfish, helps water safety instructors identify the most significant roadblocks that people with disabilities face when learning to swim and utilize techniques to overcome these challenges. These trainings prepare staff to use adjusted practices that meet
the needs of people with a range of developmental, neurological, or mobility differences; whether that swimmer has Down syndrome, autism, ADHD, mobility challenges, or other learning and support needs. BCYF now has 11 instructors trained in adaptive swim techniques.
“These passionate instructors turn the ‘impossible’ into possible,” said Cindy Freedman, OT, TR, Founder, Swim Angelfish. “Because the city has invested in specialized adaptive training, they are able to break through barriers, build life-saving skills, and help children with anxiety, autism, and sensory and motor differences become safer and more independent in the water— making a life-changing difference for families across Boston.”
Kick off the Shopping Season at the Annual South Boston Spring Stroll
The South Boston Chamber of Commerce and South Boston Neighborhood Development Corporation are excited to kick off the season with the annual Spring Stroll on Thursday, May 7, beginning at 4 p.m.
Spend the evening strolling along Broadway and surrounding streets, where local shops and restaurants will be offering special deals, seasonal treats, and unique finds. It’s a great opportunity to support small businesses and find the perfect gift ahead of Mother’s Day.
As an added bonus, there will be a pop-up market, featuring local brands and live music, from 4-7 p.m. in front of St. George Cathedral at 523 E. Broadway.
From 5–7 p.m., enjoy live music from The Late Risers, bringing energy and entertainment to both East and West Broadway and setting the tone for a lively spring evening.
Getting around is easy — complimentary pedicabs will be available from 4–7 p.m., offering a fun and convenient way to explore all the Stroll has to offer.
For updates and additional details, visit southbostonchamber.org/spring-stroll or contact Jenni at jenni.mcneill@sbndc.org.
Join us for an evening of shopping, music, and community as we celebrate the arrival of spring in South Boston.
A First Taste
of Maple & Ash, Opening in Boston’s Seaport
With a menu crafted by Michelin-lauded chef Danny Grant, executive chef Jorge Campos
Tonight, April 30, Maple & Ash will bring its unapologetically decadent woodfired steakhouse experience to The Superette in Boston’s Seaport neighborhood bringing locals and tourists alike a restaurantnightlife experience where every taste is indulgent and the fiery dining experience carries effortlessly into the night.
Established in 2015 in Chicago by Maple Hospitality Group and Chef Danny Grant, an East Coast native, Maple & Ash redefines luxury dining with an irreverent and celebratory atmosphere where one can expect the unexpected. With locations in Chicago, Scottsdale and Miami, Boston is Maple & Ash’s first foray into the Northeast which will be followed by a fifth location planned for New York City.
Complementing Maple & Ash’s core menu, the Boston carte du jour will be marked with seasonal specialties and with plenty of sea treasures from local waters like the Blue Fin Tuna Crudo with pepper relish, golden beets and habanero-yuzu ponzu; Day Boat Scallops – from Wulf’s Fish in the Seaport – with romanesco, tomato aioli and confit leek vinaigrette; and Whole Roasted Atlantic Sea Bass with Roman beans, kale and Meyer lemon gremolata. The brand’s
“Tower Hour” features its signature hot seafood towers – with manila clams, scallops, black tiger prawns and Alaskan king crab, roasted in the hearth and finished with garlic butter and chili oil – paraded through its lounge in a modern interpretation of a “Happy Hour.”
The menu features “raw & chill” sea treasures, caviar service and signatures like the Wagyu Beef Carpaccio alongside chops, including an exclusive list of “Butcher’s Reserve” cuts. Executive chef Jorge Campos, an eight-year veteran of Maple & Ash who has relocated to Boston, will lead the team in butchering and dry-aging primal cuts of beef in-house. While Maple & Ash offers a complete lineup of à la carte wood-fired steaks, sensations include The Eisenhower, a 40-ounce 45-day dry-aged porterhouse that is a nod to President Eisenhower’s love of steak cooked over hot coals, and the 16-ounce Winterfrost Wagyu New York Strip. The mains are paired with a collection of accompaniments from vegetables and potatoes with signature twists to Pillows of Love, a fan favorite agnolotti with ricotta and winter truffle, and Spicy alla Vodka, lumache with tomato and chili.
For dessert, a taste of nostalgia is seen in a “DIY” ice cream sundae. Inspired by Grant’s mother – who during his childhood was famous for her movie nights paired with sundaes – dig into a Neapolitan trio of vanilla, chocolate and strawberry with toppings ranging from hot fudge to peanut butter cups and gummy bears presented on high tea platters.
Beginning April 30, Maple & Ash will be open Tuesday through Saturday from 5p.m. to 10p.m. with “Tower Hour” available from 5p.m. to 6p.m. Maple & Ash is located at 131 Seaport Boulevard in The Superette courtyard. For more information, please call or text (617) 362-8881 or visit www.mapleandash.com/ boston. For reservations, please visit SevenRooms. Valet parking with validation is available.
Kathleen Clifford – South Boston’s New Branch Librarian
by Rick Winterson
For almost ten years, from 2017 until 2025, Kathleen Clifford served as the Librarian in charge of Programs and Community Outreach here in the South Boston Branch Library. In recent years, she reported to Branch Librarian Jane Bickford until Jane retired late in 2025. Kathleen became well-known to library patrons for her handling of original new programs, dealing with Friends of the Library, and serving South Boston with her agreeable personality.
Late in 2025, Kathleen was offered a position as the Branch Librarian at the Boston Public Library’s Adams Street Branch in Dorchester, which she accepted. But in the meantime, Jane Bickford’s retirement as Branch Librarian took effect here. After a search for Jane’s replacement was completed, it turned out that Kathleen was eligible to come back here as the Branch Librarian in South Boston if she wanted that job. The position was offered to her; Kathleen gladly accepted it as of the 22nd of February.
You see, Kathleen is from South Boston and lived on East Seventh until she was eight. She lived in Dorchester for 14 years also. Kathleen is a neighbor and our Branch Library at 646 East Broadway is exactly where she wants to be.
Managing a Branch Library might seem to be a peaceable position, but it requires in-depth education and a good deal of experience. Kathleen
earned her Bachelor of Arts at UMass in Amherst and then went on to obtain a Master’s degree in Library and Information Science in 2012 from Simmons College here in Back Bay.
For three years, Kathleen then worked in the Boston Public Library system as what’s called a “Floater Librarian”. This meant she provided coverage as needed at public service desks in various Branch Libraries. She also served as a Library Assistant at Harvard’s Countway Library for a couple of years. As mentioned above, in 2017 she became Programs and Community Outreach Librarian in South Boston. That included responsibilities for book groups, computer literacy, and educational offerings for patrons. In addition, she served as the Interim Branch Librarian at the Egleston Square Branch for six months during that time. Overall, Kathleen’s experience has been considerable.
During this interview, Kathleen discussed our local Library programs extensively. In May, these will range from knitting classes to a class in “Mocktails” to a repeat of the popular ukelele class that took place last year.
While summertime is the Branch Library’s quietest time due to vacations, workforce development classes such as resume writing and computer skills will be offered for use in the fall. This is America’s 250th year, which will lead to patriotic programs later in 2026. The Friends of the South Branch Library are holding their next monthly book
sale on Saturday, May 16; proceeds will be used to support library activities.
And the South Boston Branch Library offers much more than just books. The Library’s equipment includes sewing machines, a telescope, a bird-watching kit, and “oral history” backpacks. The next time you’re in the Library, take a look at all the bulletins and activities on display – from free flower seeds to films to “Literacy in the Age of AI” on June 3. Be sure to enjoy the Branch’s outside back lawn when warm weather arrives.
As the South Boston Branch Librarian, Kathleen reports directly to Library management in the Copley Square head office. She oversees the South Boston facility, its staffing, and its extensive range of public offerings and services. Her staff of
five includes Children’s Librarian Dani Crickman and three Assistant Librarians – Rose Carlson, Nicole Rezza, and James Hill. Regan Doyle serves as a part-time Library Aide. And South Boston’s Branch Library is one of the most successful among Boston’s 29 Branch Libraries. Its circulation amounts to 50,000 per year; it has 11,000 card holders – second only to the Branch in East Boston, which has far more local residents than we do. Visits to our Branch Library amount to 6 or 7,000 every month. In 2025, 6385 South Boston residents attended more than 350 Library programs, all offered for free. Kathleen requested that we close this article with her thanks to Jane. ..Bickford, who preceded Kathleen as South Boston’s Branch Librarian, and to Francie Francis, who first hired her.
Councilor Flynn Files Hearing Order on a Moratorium for Artificial Intelligence (AI) Data Centers
This week, Boston City Councilor Ed Flynn filed a hearing order to discuss a moratorium on artificial intelligence (AI) data centers in Boston. In recent years, state and local governments across the country have been slow to adjust and regulate advances in emerging technologies, including continued public and pedestrian safety issues related to both rideshare and thirdparty food delivery applications. Over the last year, municipalities across the country have heard from constituents concerned about the potential impacts of AI data centers on electricity and utility bills, fresh water consumption and sustainability, contaminated soil, and noise pollution among others.
During a nationwide affordability crisis, local communities across the United States have raised concerns on the impact of large-scale
data center infrastructure on their electricity bills. Data centers also require cooling systems and consume significant amounts of freshwater. The indirect water consumption from data centers in the United States reached an estimated 211 billion gallons in 2023, increasing concerns about water scarcity and sustainability. Moreover, Data centers generate continuous noise pollution from cooling systems and equipment, with nearby residents reporting persistent humming that negatively impacts their quality of life and public health.
This month, a bipartisan bill passed the Maine Legislature to impose an 18-month moratorium on new data centers, while Port Washington, Wisconsin passed a referendum requiring AI data center projects in excess of $10 million that receive tax benefits to first obtain approval from local voters.While the
BLO Celebrates America’s 250th
by Rick Winterson
As we reported a year ago, the Boston Lyric Opera (the BLO) relocated to South Boston. They have now opened their new headquarters along with a marvelous performance studio on Channel Center in Fort Point. Also, on Friday April 24, the BLO presented the opening night of “Daughter of the Regiment”, an opera by Donizetti, which they are performing downtown in the Colonial Emerson Theatre.
We mention this opera in particular because the year of 2026 is the 250th Anniversary of our nation – the United States of America. The BLO’s production of “Daughter of the Regiment” celebrates this Anniversary in an original and a unique way. The music is still the delightful creation composed by Donizetti, but his libretto was cleverly translated into English by Kirsten Greenidge. The opera’s setting has now become 1776 here in colonial America; the costumes and sets are all
state of Massachusetts and the City of Boston have been supportive of AI data center development in referencing competitiveness and the innovation economy, concerns regarding community impact and electricity costs have been acknowledged. In Lowell, the Markley Data Center has raised similar concerns among residents regarding noise pollution, air quality, and lack of transparency in expansion plans. This led to the City of Lowell imposing a moratorium on further expansion.
More than 4,200 data centers now operate across the United States, and their rapid expansion is increasingly affecting the daily lives of hundreds of thousands of residents. While municipalities have been slow to regulate impacts of innovation technology in recent years, it is critical that the City of Boston exercise transparency and discuss a
potential moratorium on data centers.
“For years, municipalities have been slow to regulate advances in emerging technologies and impacts to public safety and quality of life. While it is critical that our city and state remain at the forefront of technology and mindful of economic growth, local governments continue to hear from constituents on negative impacts from artificial intelligence (AI) data center infrastructure - including electricity usage and utility bills, water consumption and sustainability, noise pollution, among others. With technology as advanced, far-reaching, and consequential as AI and data centers, the City of Boston must exercise transparency and carefully consider any impacts on employment, cost of living, and the environment for our residents.”For more information, please contact Councilor Flynn’s office at 617635-3203 or Ed.Flynn@Boston.gov.
designed to depict that time and place. The entire production celebrates our Revolutionary War and the Declaration of Independence, and the first act’s setting is the Liberty Tree that once thrived and served as a colonial gathering place in Downtown Boston. The comedy contained in “Daughter of the Regiment”, along with the cast’s vibrant opera singing, will delight you as well.
In addition, the theme of “Daughter of the Regiment” commemorates Deborah Sampson. Sampson was born in Massachusetts, and she masqueraded as a colonial soldier so she could join George Washington’s Continental Army. Sampson served heroically for a year and a half, until she was wounded in combat and her masquerade was discovered by Army doctors. America’s “Daughter of the Regiment” was a real, historic person!
Don’t miss “Daughter of the Regiment”. Celebrate 2026 – the 250th year of our independence – with glorious music, remarkable sets, and modern-day English language about our own American independence.
The PMC Kids Ride Returns to South Boston
After a successful first year in 2025, the Boston PMC Kids Ride returns to South Boston this spring to once again raise funds for the Jimmy Fund and DanaFarber Cancer Institute while teaching kids about volunteerism.
The PMC Kids Rides Program is a spoke in the wheel of the PanMass Challenge’s yearly fundraising campaign, featuring mini bike-athons throughout New England that involve children ages 2 to 15 in the PMC mission by providing them the opportunity to fight cancer just like adults. 100 percent of every rider-raised dollar goes to Dana-Farber Cancer Institute for cancer research and treatment.
Domenic Hall, 7, a secondyear PMC Kids Ride rider and South Boston resident, shared why he’s excited to participate in a PMC Kids Ride again this year: “Because they’re fun, you can give money to people who are sick, and it feels good.” Cancer has impacted members of Domenic’s family, and he has already started fundraising for his 2026 ride, aiming to raise at least $1,000 this year.
The Boston PMC Kids Ride is Saturday, June 13, from 8 to 11 AM, and starts at Carson Beach. Families from South Boston, Dorchester, and other Boston neighborhoods are invited to participate. The ride is open to children ages 2 to 15; they can choose from a tot lot, 0.6-mile route, 1.4-mile route, or 3.1-mile route.
The inaugural ride was held last June; 55 local kids raised more than $9,000 for cancer research and treatment. This year, the organizers hope to grow participation and increase the ride’s gift to Dana-Farber.
Children have a $20 registration fee, a fundraising commitment of $40, and are asked to raise money by requesting contributions from family members, friends, and neighbors.
PMC Kids Rides fundraising supports pediatric cancer research and care at Dana-Farber Cancer
Institute and the Jimmy Fund, enabling kids to help kids. For years, pediatric oncology has been one of Dana-Farber Cancer Institute’s largest allocations of the PMC’s annual gift. PMC Kids Rides fundraising continues to strengthen pediatric research and care at one of the nation’s top pediatric cancer programs.
In 2025, 20 PMC Kids Rides attracted more than 1,700 young cyclists to raise more than $400,000 as part of the Pan-Mass Challenge’s $78 million gift to Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.
The PMC, which is DanaFarber’s largest single contributor, representing 67 percent of the Jimmy Fund’s annual revenue, has raised $1.125 billion since 1980.
Register to ride, volunteer, donate, or learn more at kids.pmc.org/boston.
Fundraising: $40
Saturday, June 13, 2026, 8:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
Carson Beach (125 William J Day Blvd, Boston, MA 02125)
Registration Fee: $20
Fundraising Deadline: September 1, 2026
Routes: Kids can choose from a tot lot, 0.6-mile route, 1.4-mile route, or 3.1-mile route. Learn More & Register: kids.pmc.org/ boston
About the Boston PMC Kids Ride
At the Condon K-8 School,
Inclusion isn’t just Something the Teachers talk about, it’s something they Work to Experience Together
This year, the school made history as the first in Boston Public Schools to host a Polar Plunge on campus, bringing Special Olympics Massachusetts “Bear Force One” Mobile Plunge Unit right into their parking lot in South Boston.
What happened was more than just kids jumping into cold water. It was a moment that brought an entire school together for a great cause.
Students, teachers, and staff showed up for each other in a way that felt bigger than the event itself. Some took the plunge, others cheered from the sidelines, but everyone played a role.
“One town, one heartbeat,” Mark Holmes, PE teacher at Condon K-8 said when talking about the school supporting Special Olympics Unified programming at their school. “We’re all together with this.”
For many at the Condon, that mission is deeply personal. With a large population of students with intellectual disabilities and autism, the event wasn’t just about raising funds, it was about raising awareness and building connection between their students.
“I think inclusivity is a big part of what we are doing,” Holmes added. “It builds good support, good friendships, a good bond.”
And that’s exactly what happened. There was joy. There was laughter. There was pride.
“Honestly, our community always shows up as their best self,” said Brittany Ellis, Manager of Student Support and Operations. “A lot of joy, a lot of support, just a lot of camaraderie.”
Students celebrated one another not just for braving the cold, but for showing up. Even those who didn’t plunge, said they wished they had after seeing the fun take place. They still made their presence felt, cheering on classmates and creating an atmosphere full of energy and encouragement.
“It was a great way for all of us to come together as a school community,” said Caroline Alexis, fifth grade special education teacher. “To celebrate our differences, but also to celebrate together through
something fun and unique.”
What made the day even more impactful was its accessibility.
“Being part of an urban school setting, this is important,” Holmes said.
He emphasized that their students have the same needs as those in any other community, making it especially important to bring opportunities like this directly to them.
Events like the Polar Plunge don’t always feel within reach for every school community.
But by bringing it directly to the Condon, barriers were removed.
“I don’t think everyone has equitable access [to these opportunities],” Alexis explained.
“So, bringing it to the school
eliminates that gap and makes it that much more exciting.”
And when given that opportunity, students showed up in full force.
In just days, dozens of students signed up to take the plunge, giving proof that when students are invited into something meaningful, they’re ready to lead.
Of course, being first came with challenges. From navigating tight city streets to figuring out where to place a massive plunge tank, it took creativity and teamwork to make it happen.But in the end, they made it work. And in doing so, they created something bigger than a single event.They created a model. Now, the Condon K-8 School has shown what’s possible. That with the right support, vision, and community buy-in, any school can bring inclusion to life.
“SBCA presents STAGE STARS” 2026!
The students at South Boston Catholic Academy had a chance to participate in a wonderful and star-studded first SBCA talent show entitled, “SBCA presents Stage Stars!” Every single performer did a remarkable job sharing their amazing God given talents, which included some popular
singing and dancing numbers from several Dance Teams, Irish Step and Ballet Performers, several solo Piano Performances, several soloists singing their favorite songs, and even a student’s special tribute to his favorite music band, “The Beatles” with a terrific rendition of “I Want to Hold Your Hand”. The students, families, teachers
and staff all had a thoroughly enjoyable time at this talent show!
Dr. Helenann Civian, our Principal, Thanked and Congratulated the students for sharing their amazing talents and Thanked Mrs. Ryan Barrett, our grade 5A teacher, for sharing her love of music and dance and organizing this amazing talent show. Mrs. Barrett did a great job
encouraging the students to share their talents and wonderfully prepared the students for this special musical event for their families and classmates. Thank You to the 5th graders who assisted Mrs. Barrett in helping, guiding and encouraging their classmates. Thank you to Mr. Carlo Bunyi, our Music Teacher, for his assistance and advice with the production end.
ZONING BOARD OF APPEAL / LICENSING HEARINGS
To participate in ZBA hearings, below are instructions on joining a public meeting. Please note that the ZBA board will call on members of the public to testify for each proposal; you can share your thoughts in that forum
87 W Seventh ST South Boston 02127
Appeal Type Zoning
Hearing Date 5/5/26
Project Description: Confirm occupancy as 3 family. Occupancy confirmed as a two family dwelling.
69 to 71 A ST South Boston 02127
Appeal Type Zoning
Hearing Date 5/5/26
Project Description: Change of occupancy from the building’s office space to 24 residential units on floors two through four. Fifth floor assembly space is for the residential program.
47 Farragut RD South Boston 02127
Appeal Type Zoning
Hearing Date 5/19/26
Project Description: Interior Renovation To Existing Tenant Unit. Interior renovations to extend Unit #1 living area into a portion of the existing basement. No Change In Occupancy, Use Or Egress. No Renovation To Exterior Envelope
176 L ST South Boston 02127
Appeal Type Zoning
Hearing Date 6/2/26
Project Description: The homeowner seeks to erect a 4th story addition to increase living space with no change to occupancy.
682 to 684 E Fifth ST South Boston 02127
Appeal Type Zoning
Hearing Date 6/11/26
Project Description: Change occupancy from single-family and store, to a two-family per plans.
DIVORCE SUMMONS BY PUBLICATION AND MAILING
The City of Boston’s Planning Department invites residents to participate in planning that will help shape the future of the City.
You can sign up to receive Planning Department emails and learn about opportunities to get involved here: bosplans.org/GetInvolved
Single-Family Report
South Boston Single-Family Homes Recently Sold
