THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 3, 2026
SOUTH BOSTON ONLINE
VOLUME XIX- ISSUE 74
So Far, Very Good, and It’s Still with Us by Rick Winterson
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here are four months left in 2026, America’s 250th year. It has been a joyful Anniversary Year so far. However, there’s still much we should do before our nation’s 250th Birthday Year ends. Make it your goal to take part in the remaining 2026 Observances. Also, take some time during each remaining week of 2026 to think about our nation – the United States of America at 250. But first, welcome back from wherever you’ve traveled this summer! Much of South Boston’s annual “moving in”
(and out) has been finished by now. Walking a straight line along our sidewalks is possible once again. This year, Labor Day will be as late as it can possibly be – on Monday, September 7. South Boston’s political candidates have won their Primary Elections. Congressman Steve Lynch, State Sen. Nick Collins, and State Rep. David Biele will be on the General Election ballot come Tuesday, November 3. The Patriots will play their first game of this season away – against the Seattle Seahawks on Wednesday evening, September 10 (8:20 p.m. EDT). And it’s virtually certain
that the Red Sox will be in the MLB’s 2026 post-season playoffs. Keep your eye on their Win-Loss record – during this year of 2026, it has been very (!) interesting. Just how the Bruins and the Celtics will rebuild their teams this fall should be fascinating as well. So now, let’s get back to America’s 250th. For one thing, please plan to observe and celebrate this year’s remaining American holidays. Major Anniversary Year Holidays are special – don’t miss any of them. The Labor Day Holiday, of course, honors American efforts at our places of work. It became a
Federal Holiday in 1894, 132 years ago. Our Labor Day recognizes that America is the hardest working, most productive nation on Earth and it also confirms that honest labor is really a virtue, as stated by Popes Leo XIII and Leo XIV. Remember that much of America’s historic success in the world has been due to the hard, skillful work of its people throughout the last 250 years. A lso, remember t hat Thanksgiving is a uniquely American Holiday. It began with the Pilgrims in Plymouth, it was approved by President George Continued on Page 2
RUNWAY 9-27 SAFETY IMPROVEMENTS TAKING PLACE THIS FALL Beginning August 31, Boston Logan will undertake the final phase of an FAA-required runway safety improvement project on Runway 9-27, with completion expected before Thanksgiving. While this important work is underway, travelers may experience temporary flight delays and nearby communities may notice changes in aircraft activity. The project does not extend the runway or increase airport capacity. It's an investment in safe operations for every passenger, every crew, and every flight. Please check your flight status with your airline before heading to Boston Logan. Thank you for your patience as we complete this important work.
Scan the QR code to learn more
Boston Logan reserves the right to open the runway for limited use if operationally feasible.
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Labor Day
Washington after the Revolution, and nowadays it starts what we call our “Holiday Season.” Offer up a sincere “Thank You” for everything we enjoy in South Boston as that Holiday approaches, Recall that the U.S.A. was the nation that changed “Armistice Day” on November 11 into “Veterans Day”, so that our brave men and women in the U.S. Military would be recognized. This fall, recall our veterans’ courage on their Day. Make a New Year resolution to visit the 37,000 f lags that’ll be displayed on Boston Common on Memorial Day next year (May 31). And as 2026 concludes, be sure to end the Holiday Season by celebrating an especially Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year with your families and friends. Of course, 9/11 isn’t a Holiday but take some time to think about
it this month. Twenty-five years ago on Tuesday, September 11, 2001, the U.S. suffered the worst tragedy ever inflicted upon us by an attacking enemy – it was worse than Pearl Harbor in 1941! Three commercial airline f lights were hijacked and flown into the World Trade Towers in New York City and the Pentagon in Washington, D.C. The 44 passengers aboard United’s Flight 93 heroically fought their hijackers and managed to crash their aircraft in Shanksville, Pennsylvania. They sacrificed their lives to prevent a fourth major disaster. Afterward, our nation recovered, even though nearly 3,000 Americans had been killed and incredible damages had been inf licted upon our nation. Don’t forget 9/11 this year – perhaps you’ve heard the news about New Hampshire’s plan to light up Mount Washington in observance of the 25th
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Anniversary of 9/11. And think about what one of the Flight 93 passengers yelled – “Okay. Are you guys ready? Let’s ROLL!” You’re certainly aware that Boston’s many primary and secondary schools are about to begin their school years. Did you know that the oldest public school in the U.S. is Boston Latin? It was established in 1635. Also, Boston English was the first public High School in America; it opened 205 years ago in 1821. And the “beat” goes on. Our own South Boston High School first opened in 1901. A complete renovation of the High School is now being planned – exactly 125 years later. Community input has become necessary, so please resolve to help provide that. A good education is the single best gift we can give to our young folks. Over the next (and last) four months of 2026, make a resolution to get involved in our Birthday year. Be sure to vote, even though some people call this an “off-year” election. In fact, this election is very, very
important. Take a walk around the Monument on Dorchester Heights; remember that it was a Monument erected to General George Washington’s f irst victory in our War of Independence – the British Evacuation of Boston on March 17, 1776 - also 250 years ago. And f inally, before New Year’s Day arrives on January 1, 2027, resolve to look ahead fifty years to the USA’s next major Anniversary – No. 300 in 2076. What actions should all of us take this year to make sure that our children and our grandchildren can joyfully celebrate America’s 30 0t h Bir t hd ay when it arrives fifty years from now.
Mayor Wu’s South Boston Coffee Hour Mon, September 14, 5:30 - 6:30 pm BCYF Curley Center, 1663 Columbia Rd
Mayor Wu’s Neighborhood Coffee Hours offer a unique opportunity to speak directly with the Mayor and staff from City departments about City services and resident concerns. Through personal conversations, and a suggestion box at each site, Mayor Wu looks forward to hearing how the City of Boston can improve parks, public areas, and City services. A neighborhood staple known for bringing the community together over a cup of coffee, Dunkin’ is back to fuel the conversation with iced coffee and donuts. Dunkin’ will also provide gift card giveaways, and the opportunity for residents to win a raffle prize. Free flowering plants will be provided by the Boston Parks and Recreation Department and fresh fruit will be provided by Star Market, while supplies last.
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Incumbants U.S. Representative Stephen Lynch and State Senator Nick Collins win their Respective Massachusetts Primary Elections
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.S. Representative Stephen Ly nc h held onto his seat Tuesday night through a primary challenge from Lawyer Patrick Roath with roughly 55.7% of the vote to Roath’s 44.3%
St ate S en ator Nic k Collins defeated challenger Latoya Gayle Collins and secured 54 percent of the vote
Care With Confidence Alzheimer’s Support Group September 15, 2026 12:00 p.m.
South Boston Neighborhood House, 136 H Street 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 month’s session will feature a presentation on PACE (Program of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly). RSVP to Carole Sullivan at csullivan@sbnh.org or call 617-268-1619 for more information. This group is sponsored by South Boston Neighborhood House and Compass on the Bay Assisted Living and Memory Support Community.
in the 1st Suffolk District Democratic primary, while Gayle earned 43 percent, according to unofficial results posted by the city of Boston. For compete election results go https://www.sec.state.ma.us/ divisions/elections/electionsand-voting.com
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Recognizing Fort Points New Small Businesses Boston City Councilor Ed Flynn, Mayor’s Office of Neighborhood Services - and City of Boston’s Lydia Polaski welcomes and recognizes FortPoint’s new small businesses: Little Wolf Coffee Roasters, The Little Cocoa Bean Company, Elephantine Bakery, Five Iron Golf, Revival Cafe & Backyard Bos. Also present: Jenni McNeill of South Boston Chamber of Commerce & Rena Gyftopoulos from Mayor’s Office of Economic Opportunity and Inclusion.
Happy Labor Day to all the working families that help build our City and Country
Boston City Councilor Ed Flynn and Family
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Yolanda Cerullo Turns 103 The members of the Thomas J. Fitzgerald VFW Post 561, friends, and neighbors at Compass on the Bay gathered to celebrate a very special day Yolanda Cerullo’s 103rd birthday! One of the first women to serve in the United States Coast Guard, Yolanda served her country honorably during World War II. Representative Biele presented her with a citation in recognition of her birthday and military service.
HAPPY LABOR DAY! Every Labor Day, we recognize the achievements and contributions of the hardworking men and women who have built our country, our state, and our city.
Thank you and Happy Labor Day State Representative David Biele
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THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 3, 2026
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Stop and Shop Celebrates Newly Remodeled Store Donates $2,000 to SB Allied War Veterans
Southie location delivers improved shopping experience plus a weekend of giveaways, food sampling, and family-friendly events to celebrate its reopening
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top & Shop has reopened its ne w l y r e mo d e le d South Boston store at 713 E. Broadway with a fresh new look and feel for local shoppers. The renovated South Boston store features more fresh produce offerings, upgraded refrigerated display cases to keep foods fresher for longer, plus bright new lighting throughout. New Plantbased and Gluten free sections make it easier for shoppers to find those specialty items. The remodel is part of Stop & Shop’s ongoing commitment to improve the shopping experience for its local customers, and the store was renovated to offer a more modern, convenient and welcoming grocery experience
for the Southie community. To reinforce its commitment to providing high-quality fresh products, Stop & Shop’s Freshness Guarantee also ensures that if any purchase of fresh items like produce, dairy, meat, or seafood does not meet customers’ expectations, the store will provide double their money back. “This remodel is about more than updating a store. It’s about showing our Southie neighbors that we’ve listened,” said Munish Kumar, Manager of
Stop & Shop South Boston. “Our neighbors’ feedback helped shape improvements throughout the store, creating a more enjoyable a nd convenient shopping experience. We’re proud to be part of this community and excited to welcome customers into a refreshed space that feels inviting, reflects the character of the neighborhood, and is something they can take pride in.”To celebrate the grand reopening, Stop & Shop donated $2,000 to the South Boston Allied War Veterans Council for
the work they do to support the community, including production of the annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade. Stop & Shop hosted three days of giveaways, local food sampling, family-friendly activities and special surprises. The Southie Stop & Shop is open Monday through Saturday from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sunday from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Customers can also shop online at www.stopandshop. com for pickup at 713 E. Broadway as soon as same-day - and enjoy the same assortment and prices as in-store.
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COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT Please note that abutter’s meeting information can also be found at https://www.boston.gov/events. To request a copy of plans or ISD letter for the proposals below, please email Sigurgeir Jonson
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555 to 567 E Broadway South Boston 02127 Appeal Type Zoning Hearing Date 9/8/26 Project Description: Add a new, exclusive use roof deck on the roof of Unit No. 565.
528 E Fifth St (NEW) Proposal: Remove existing one story element at the rear of existing 2 and a half story residence. Add addition to the rear on the 2nd and 3rd floor. Existing 1 parking spot in the rear to remain. Time: Thurs, September 10 at 6:00pm Join Zoom Meeting: https://www.zoomgov.com/j/1656497601 Webinar ID: 165 649 7601
87 W Seventh St (NEW) Proposal: Extend to the rear, add living space to the existing building, and change the occupancy to five apartments Time: Thurs, September 17 at 6:00pm Join Zoom Meeting:https://www.zoomgov.com/j/1659537980 Meeting ID: 165 953 7980
442 E Fifth ST South Boston 02127 Appeal Type Zoning Hearing Date 9/8/26 Project Description: Renovate existing unfinished basement to an apartment. Changing from a 3 family to a 4 family residence Includes exterior patio and steps to grade.
90 to 92 L ST South Boston 02127 Appeal Type Zoning Hearing Date 9/8/26 Project Description: Interior renovation of an existing commercial space to convert laundromat (M) into ice cream and coffee shop (A-2). Includes layout updates, new finishes, and installation of new equipment.
722 E Eighth ST South Boston 02127
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
350 Athens ST South Boston 02127 Appeal Type Zoning Hearing Date 9/8/26 Project Description: A new construction, six (6) unit residential condominium building w/elevator, including: • Residential lobby • Bicycle parking and mechanical space • Ground-floor parking garage for six (6) vehicles • Dedicated private outdoor deck space for each condominium unit
368 Athens ST South Boston 02127 Appeal Type Zoning Hearing Date 9/8/26 Project Description: Combine two lots at 364 and 368 Athens St to create one parcel and build a new six unit residential building with on grade garage parking with six residential units, as per plans
460 W Broadway South Boston 02127 Appeal Type Zoning Hearing Date 9/8/26 Project Description: Proposed adaptive re-use of vacant former bank building. Erect rear and vertical addition to increase height to four stories; change legal use and occupancy to court and offices/support space for use by the Trial Court of the Commonwealth, with garage parking spaces.
Appeal Type Zoning Hearing Date 9/8/26 Project Description: CLARIFICATION: CHANGE OF USE AND OCCUPANCY OF EXISTING DETACHED TWO STORY CARRIAGE HOUSE to a one family with three car parking below with sprinkler protection in accordance with City of Boston’s detached ADU guidelines. (This is one of two structures on the same lot and the owner resides in the three family in the front).
120 to 120D Old Harbor ST South Boston 02127 Appeal Type Zoning Hearing Date 9/8/26 Project Description: Demolish existing structure and erect new 4-story, 5-townhouse building w/garages, rear and roof decks as per plans submitted.
336 E ST South Boston 02127 Appeal Type Zoning Hearing Date 9/22/26 Project Description: Deck repair: Remove rotten deck and erect a new deck.
425 E Third ST South Boston 02127 Appeal Type Zoning Hearing Date 9/22/26 Project Description: Erect 4 story, 2 family building over parking. Filed ALT1723371 for Easement to allow vehicles to pass through for parking.
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THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 3, 2026
The Great Elephant Walk
The Great Elephant Migration is a public art installation featuring 100 life-sized elephant sculptures displayed on the Commonwealth Avenue Mall in Boston’s Back Bay, located just two blocks from Copley Square. The free outdoor exhibition runs through September 13, 2026, and serves as a global fundraising initiative to support wildlife coexistence and protection
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
BostonPlans.org
@BostonPlans
Teresa Polhemus, Executive Director/Secretary
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