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SOUTH BOSTON ONLINE
VOLUME XIX- ISSUE 74
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South Boston’s Rat Problem Is Getting Worse
or South Boston residents, spotting a rat on the sidewalk or darting through an alley has become an increasingly common — and unwelcome — sight throughout the neighborhood. According to City Councilor Ed Flynn, complaints about rodents are now among the most frequent concerns he hears from residents. “And I believe the situation is getting worse.” He’s e ven he a rd of rats getting into people’s houses or apa r t ment s! For Flynn, who sees rats almost daily, the issue extends beyond an unpleasant nuisance. “Pest control and rats in our neighborhood — it’s not just a public health issue; it’s also a public safety issue,” he said. “And a significant quality of life issue.”
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ll the students at South Boston Catholic Academy were welcome to bring their loveable family pets to have them Blessed in Honor of St. Francis of
To deal with this everincreasing problem, Flynn said public awareness and education have to be part of the solution. “If we do a better job on public awareness and communication, we can s olve a lot .” Flynn also said stronger and stricter code enforcement is another important part of addressing the rat infestation. “I think we need overall change in how we do pest control in Boston,” he said. “There should be a standalone city department that specifically deals with pest control. I think it’s that serious of a problem.” For Fly nn, t he issue comes down to the cit y’s ba sic responsibilit y to its residents: “I do believe we need to prioritize pest control management in Boston because
right now we’re not doing it.” What’s causing the problem? Flynn points to several factors, including ongoing construction and the way people put out their tra sh for collection. Food left in improperly secured trash provides sustenance for rodents. “You just can’t put a trash bag on the street that
The Blessing of the Animals Assisi, who had a great love and care for God, all of God’s people, all God’s animals and the world/ environment that God created. Many families brought their family pets to be Blessed. We had
many, many dogs, cats, a bunny named Buttons and a lizard named Bob the Bearded Dragon, who were very popular with children. Father Robert Casey, our Pastor, was so happy to come to school
has food inside it,” Flynn said. “That’s a recipe for disaster.” Boston requires residents to wait until after 5 p.m. the evening before their collection day to bring trash containers curbside. Residents are required to provide their own black or gray trash containers with secure Continued on Page 2
and Bless all these lovable family pets in honor of St. Francis of Assisi. New families are welcome to email our admissions team at admissions@sbcatholicadacademy. org More photos on Page 8&9
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Continued from Page 1
Rats in South Boston
Trick or Treat on Broadway Set for Friday, Oct. 30 South Boston Chamber of Commerce businesses and South Boston Neighborhood Development Corporation invite neighborhood children in costumes to “Trick or Treat on Broadway” on Friday, Oct. 30, 2026, from 4-6 p.m. Participating establishments will be clearly marked with orange and black posters inviting the children to stop by for a treat. “Trick or Treat on Broadway is always such a fun afternoon for our neighborhood,” said Jenni McNeill, Director of the South Boston Chamber of Commerce. “It’s a great way for local businesses to welcome families, see all the creative costumes, and be part of the Halloween spirit. We hope families will come out, enjoy the afternoon, and support the businesses that make Broadway such a special part of South Boston.” For the safety and enjoyment of all participants, we are asking that Trick-or-Treaters walk in the same direction. If you are starting on West Broadway going toward East Broadway, walk on the odd-numbered (southern) side of the street. If you are starting on East Broadway heading to West Broadway, walk on the evennumbered (northern) side of the street. Broadway businesses that would like to participate but haven’t received a poster yet should contact Jenni at 617-791-2013 or jenni. mcneill@sbndc.org.
lids, and all trash must fit inside the barrel with the lid closed. O ver f low i ng t r a sh or bags left on the street are considered code violations. For buildings w it h landlords and tenants, the landlord is responsible for providing trash containers that meet the city’s requirements. Landlords are also responsible for creating a waste management plan and educating tenants about t heir responsibilities a s re sident s of B os ton. Flynn said better public education about those rules cou ld ma ke a d if ference. “We c a n’t a ssu me people know what the rules are.” Flynn believes composting could help reduce the amount of food waste available to rats. “I believe composting has to be part of the solution,” he said. Boston currently offers a curbside food waste collection pilot program for buildings with six units or fewer. The program provides participants with a composting container with a secure lid, which is picked up by the city on a regular schedule. Residents who do not qualify for the curbside pilot program, or who are on the waitlist, can use Project Oscar, the city’s 24-hour community food waste program. In South Boston, a Project Oscar
bin is located on West Broadway and is designed to be rodentresistant and locked. The bins accept food waste including meat, bones, dairy, and fish. Flynn suggested a public awareness campaign explaining the cit y’s trash rules and regulations and making that information easily accessible t hrough social media. He also emphasized the importance of making sure re sident s — p a r t ic u l a rly people who may be new to the neighborhood — understand how and when to put out their trash. “It seems simple, but it’s often overlooked, and I think we have to get back to basics.” Fly nn u rged re sident s who see rats to report them immediately to the City of Boston through the 311 app. When reporting a sighting, residents should be as specific as possible about where and when they saw the rat and the circumstances su rrou nd ing t he sig ht ing. Residents can also contact Flynn’s office with concerns. Addressing the problem will require a combination of better public awareness, proper trash disposa l, composting, code enforcement, and a greater citywide focus on pest control. “We won’t ever solve the problem,” Flynn said, “but we can signif icantly reduce rats in our neighborhoods.”
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ummer returned briefly yesterday (Wednesday, October 7) and marked the 2026 celebration called “Coffee with C-6”. It was beautiful all along West Broadway, with warm sun, blue skies, and occasional white cumulus clouds. The only touch of Autumn was the brilliant yellow of the leaves on some nearby honey locusts. From 12:30 on, Olga’s Kafe served superb coffee along with many elegant pastries created by Grande Chef Olga herself. “Dessert at noon” would be a good way to describe her offerings. And it was all set up on those colorful orange tables that Olga places along her sidewalk in front. The event was scheduled and presented by Jenni McNeill, who is the Director of the South Boston Chamber of Commerce.
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Coffee With C-6 at Olga’s Kafe
The Chamber arranges these events at various points along Broadway in order to increase meaningful contacts among our local police, city officials, and South Boston residents. Many local Boston police officers, stationed at BPD Station C-6 at 101 West Broadway, stopped
by. Led by C-6 Captain John Conroy and Community Services Officer Sergeant Jeremy Fitton, three hours of relaxed conversation took place. State Rep. David Biele was there. Other guests came from City Hall. Many passers-by stopped in to enjoy the event as well, including a contingent of young students
who took part. South Boston residents from as far away as Andrew Square made it a point to drop in. One final note: After telling us that she is Greek, Olga informed us that “Kafe” is the Greek spelling of “coffee”. You see, the Greek alphabet has no letter “C”, so “K” has to be used instead.
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Councilor Flynn Files Hearing Order to Discuss Stalking and Relationship Violence at Colleges and Universities in Boston
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oston City Councilor Ed Flynn filed a hearing order to discuss stalking and relationship violence at colleges and universities in the City of Boston. Relationship violence describes a pattern of abusive and controlling behaviors against a current or former intimate partner to obtain or maintain power in the relationship. Relationship violence can include physical and emotional abuse, sexual abuse, and stalking and digital abuse. According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, roughly 1 in 5 college students say they have been abused by an intimate partner. Women are at higher risk than any other surveyed group, according to a report by the U.S. Department of Justice. Moreover, stalking is a widespread problem across
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colleges and universities in the United States. According to The Stalking Prevention, Awareness, and Resource Center, up to 39% of college students report being stalked since starting college. Students at higher risk for experiencing stalking include women, students of color, students in the LGBTQ+ community, and students with disabilities. The Clery Act is a federal consumer protection law that was enacted in 1990, after a college student was sexually assaulted and murdered in her college dorm. The law requires colleges and universities to disclose campus crime statistics and security policies. The Campus SaVE Act (Campus Sexual Violence Elimination Act) further amends the Clery Act by improving transparency, survivor support,
and prevention education of relationship and sexual violence. “Protecting our students must be a top priority in the City of Boston. It is critical that our colleges and universities are accurately reporting every incident of relationship violence and stalking,” said Boston City Councilor Ed Flynn. “The Boston Police Department plays a critical
role in supporting our college and university community and preventing relationship violence and stalking. Individuals found to have committed a crime against their partner must be dealt with by the criminal justice system accordingly.” For more information, plea se contact Councilor Flynn’s office at 617-635-3203 or E d . F ly n n @B o s ton .g ov.
2027 South Boston Evacuation Day/St. Patrick’s Day Chief Marshal Dan Ferrara, MAJ, USA (Ret)
an Ferrara was born and raised in South Boston, Massachusetts, and now resides in West Roxbury with his wife, Joy. The youngest son of Patricia and Salvatore, Dan grew up alongside his siblings Ron, Trish, and Bob. He attended Saint Bridget’s Elementary School and later Don Bosco Technical High School, graduating in 1984. Dan went on to the United States Military Academy at West Point, earning his commission as a Field Artillery Officer upon graduating in 1989. Dan began his Army career with the 1st Infantry Division at Fort Riley, Kansas, serving in the historic 1st Battalion, 5th Field Artillery - “Hamilton’s Own,” founded by Alexander Hamilton. He first served as a Forward Observer before becoming a Fire Direction Officer with Alpha
Battery, deploying to Southwest Asia in support of Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm. Following the Gulf War, he advanced to the role of Battery Executive Officer. After leaving active duty, Dan joined the Army Reserve, supporting the West Point Admissions Office for two years. He later transitioned to the Massachusetts National Guard, serving in the 1st Battalion, 102nd Field Artillery as it was reorganized in 1996. His roles included Battery Commander and several battalion staff positions, including S1 (Personnel), Assistant S3 (Operations), and S4 (Logistics). He subsequently served as Regimental S1 at the Regional Training Institute at Camp Edwards. Dan concluded his military service in 2007, retiring as a Major. In 1998, Dan helped found South Boston Pop Warner, where he served as league secretary
for two years and president for eighteen. He also coached for a decade, beginning with the A team before moving to the E team. His leadership and dedication helped
shape the program into a cornerstone of youth sports in the community. The SBAWVC will host the Chief Marshal Banquet on Friday March 5, 2027 more details to follow soon.
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Massport Sets Sail with Therapy Dog Program at Flynn Cruiseport Boston
New PORT PAWS program helps cruise guests start their journey on the right paw
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r aveler s c om i ng through the Port of Boston can now look forward to meeting some furry friends, thanks to a new animal therapy program that launched today, “PORT PAWS”. In partnership with the Alliance of Therapy Dogs, the Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport) is introducing trained therapy dogs to Flynn Cruiseport to help enhance the overall travel experience for cruisers. Guests visiting Boston will have the opportunity to pet and engage with the PORT PAWS crew, including a Great Pyrenees named Belle, Labrador Retrievers Magnum and Campbell, and an Australian Shepherd Mix named Riley. The PORT PAWS program will provide therapy dogs throughout the cruise
terminal to create a de-stressing moment for passengers. Both the handlers and the dogs have more than a year of experience participating in similar programs. “We’re excited to welcome PORT PAWS to Flynn Cruiseport Boston and bring a little extra comfort and joy to our passengers as they begin and end their journey,”
said Rich Davey, Massport CEO. “Therapy dogs have a special way of putting a smile on people’s faces and we hope this program creates a warm, welcoming and enjoyable experience for everyone traveling through the Cruiseport.”
Over the last year, Massport has launched therapy dog programs – BOS PAWS at Boston Logan and WOO PAWS at Worcester Regional Airport. The four-legged volunteers have quickly become a favorite among passengers, providing a friendly and calming presence while adding a little extra fun to the travel experience. Building on that positive response to both programs, PORT PAWS will bring that same welcoming energy to cruise guests at Flynn Cruiseport. According to the NIH, interacting with animals has been shown to decrease levels of cortisol (a stress-related hormone) and lower blood pressure. Other studies have found that animals can reduce loneliness, increase feelings of social support, and boost your mood.
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Former Hotel Transformed into Permanent Supportive Housing for Older Adults who Experienced Homelessness
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ayor Michelle Wu today joined The Community Builders, Pine Street Inn, state leaders, community partners, and housing advocates to celebrate the grand opening of 900 Morrissey Boulevard in Dorchester, where a former hotel has been transformed into 99 affordable studio apartments for older adults who have experienced chronic homelessness. “Boston is taking every opportunity to ensure that all our residents have a fair chance at a safe and stable place to live,” said Mayor Michelle Wu. “The residences at 900 Morrisey Boulevard are thoughtfully designed for our older residents, who have helped build a City known for its incredible community, rich history and care for one another. I’m grateful to Pine Street Inn, The Community Builders, our state partners, and everyone who helped make these homes possible so our residents can stay in the communities where they belong.” The conversion of a former hotel into affordable housing was led by a partnership between The Community Builders and the Pine Street Inn. The fully
furnished homes provide older adults who have experienced homelessness with safe, stable housing and robust wraparound services within the building. The project received American Rescue Plan funding from the City of Boston, Housing Choice Vouchers to support all the homes from the Boston Housing Authority, and funding from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts through the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities, the Community Economic Development and Assistance Corporation, and MassHousing. Significant philanthropic support from the Yawkey Foundation and the Pine Street Inn will continue to
support resident services at the building. The development, a partnership owned and operated by The Community Builders, with Pine Street Inn providing services, offers residents safe, stable homes and on-site services designed to support their health, independence, and long-term housing stability. The project was made possible through funding and collaboration among the City of Boston, the Boston Housing Authority, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, and public and private partners. All 99 apartments are deeply affordable, expanding housing opportunities for residents with extremely low incomes and providing the supportive services necessary for long-term stability. “Permanent supportive housing allows our residents to focus on their health, rebuild connections, and plan for the future,” said Chief of Housing Sheila A. Dillon. “As our homeless population ages, it is critical that we create supportive housing that meets the unique needs of this demographic. 900 Morrissey Boulevard will allow 99 older adults, who were living in shelter or on the street, to live in a safe, respectful community. “The Boston Housing Authority is proud to provide project-based vouchers to make a supportive housing community like 900 Morrissey Boulevard possible,” said BHA Administrator Kenzie Bok. “With strong partners like the Pine Street Inn and The Community Builders, we know this is a place where elders can age in dignity supported by the wraparound services they require.” “For older adults, having a home of your own means having the stability to age with dignity, stay connected to community, and maintain your independence,” said Emily Shea,
Commissioner of AgeStrong. “The 99 new homes at 900 Morrissey Boulevard will give older residents who have experienced homelessness a place where they can feel secure and supported as they age. This project reflects the kind of city we want Boston to be, one where older people of all incomes can have a safe place to call home and the opportunity to thrive.” “Transforming 900 Morrissey from a former hotel into 99 permanent homes shows what’s possible when creative reuse is matched with a longterm commitment to residents,” said Bart Mitchell, president and CEO of The Community Builders. “Together with Pine Street Inn and our public, civic and financial partners, we are creating more than housing, we are creating a community where people moving out of homelessness can find stability, connection and the opportunity to thrive.” “Housing ends homelessness,” said Lyndia Downie, president and executive director of Pine Street Inn. “At 900 Morrissey Boulevard, residents have a home of their own along with supportive services to help them maintain their health, independence, and stability. We are proud to work together with The Community Builders, the City of Boston, and our many supporters to create a welcoming community where older adults can move forward with dignity.” “MassHousing is excited for the residents who now call 900 Morrissey Boulevard home and have new opportunities opened to them by having an affordable and stable place to live,” said MassHousing CEO Chrystal Kornegay. “This was truly a collaborative effort among all the partners involved.
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Live Each Day with Pure Joy in your Heart!
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Care With Confidence Alzheimer’s Support Group Sponsored by Compass on the Bay October 20, 2026, 12:00 pm South Boston Neighborhood House, 136 H Street, South Boston
Boston City Councilor Ed Flynn joined the McGrath Family, neighbors, and friends to support the exceptional work of Colin’s Joy Project and their commitment to families in South Boston.
Boston City Councilors Ed Flynn and Erin Murphy had lunch and bowled some strings with the South Boston Special Kids and Young Adults! This is an exceptional organization dedicated to building lasting friendships for individuals with disabilities. We are a better city because of the work of these volunteers and our South Boston Special Kids!
Boston City Councilor Ed Flynn attended the Alumni and Family Fun Day at the Edgerley Family South Boston Boys and Girls Club. Once a club kid, always a club kid!
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. RSVP to Carole Sullivan at csullivan@sbnh.org or call 617268-1619 for more information. This group is sponsored by South Boston Neighborhood House and Compass on the Bay Assisted Living and Memory Support Community, 1380 Columbia Road, South Boston.
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Blessing of the Animals
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COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
DIVORCE SUMMONS BY PUBLICATION AND MAILING
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
Docket No. SU26D16430R
vs.
DlonneE.Byfletd
Commonwealth of MauachUMtta The Trial Court Probate and Family Court
Conroy D.d. Byfield
Suffolk Probate and Family Court 24 New Chardon Street Boston, MA02114
To the Defendant:
670 E Broadway (NEW) Proposal: Confirm occupancy as a barber shop and change to yoga and fitness. Interior renovation of an existing 1,400 SF barber shop into a yoga and fitness studio. Time: Tues, October 13, 6:00pm Join Zoom Meeting: https://www.zoomgov.com/j/1659448715 Phone one-tap: +16692545252,,1659448715# US (San Jose) Meeting ID: 165 944 8715
156 E St (NEW) Proposal: Renovation to an existing 2-story single family home to 4-story with a deck on the fourth floor. Time: Wed, October 14, 6:00pm Join Zoom Meeting:https://www.zoomgov.com/j/1657600061 Phone one-tap: +16692545252,,1657600061# US (San Jose) Webinar ID: 165 760 0061
The Plaintiff has filed a Complaint for Divorce requesting that the Court grant a divorce for
Irretrievable Breakdown
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allow plaintiff to resume the fonner name cl Dionne Elizabeth Hayman
The Complaint is on file at the Court. An Automatic Restraining Order has been entered in this matter preventing you from taking any action which would negatively impact the current financial status of either party. SEE Supplemental Probate Court Rule 411. You are hereby summoned and required to serve upon: DionneE. Byfield 181 WNt Broadway S. Boston, MA 02127 your answer, if any, on or before 12/07/2026. If you fall to do so, the court will proceed to the hearing and adjudication of this action. You are also required to file a copy of your answer, if any, in the office of the Register of this Court.
WITNESS, Hon. Janine D Rivers, First Justice of this Court. Date:
September 16, 2026 Register of Probate
ZONING BOARD OF APPEAL / LICENSING HEARINGS To participate in ZBA hearings, please monitor this page for 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 10/16/26 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
567 E Sixth ST South Boston 02127 Appeal Type Zoning Hearing Date 11/10/26 Project Description: Updated scope of work by applicant 3.3.26: “Demolish existing 1-story garage on separate permit and erect a new 3-story, 5-unit residential building w/balconies and off-street parking as per plans submitted.”10/27/25 scope of work redacted after zoning refusal decision: “demolish existing 1-story garage on separate permit and erect a new 4-story, 6-unit residential building w/balconies and off-street parking as per plans submitted.”
CJ-D 112a (11/09)
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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