Election Day (if you haven’t voted early) is just five days away, on Tuesday, November 4. Please make sure you vote. Yes, this is a so-called “off-year” election, and unfortunately, because of this many eligible voters don’t bother to vote at all. But we encourage you to do your duty as a citizen of the United States next Tuesday, and on both primary and general Election Days next year, as well as in the all-important major presidential elections that will occur in 2028.
We are living during historic anniversaries – from 250 years ago? The Battle of Lexington and Concord took
place in 1775, immediately after Paul Revere rode there from Charlestown. This was followed two months later by the Battle of Bunker Hill. Nine months after that, on March 17, 1776, the British evacuated Boston because Dorchester Heights had been fortified by America’s colonial militia. Later on, this was called Evacuation Day. It was General George Washington’s first victory in our War of Independence.
Take a look at our current political issues and situations – locally, statewide, and nationally. They range from Mass/Cass here in Boston, to illegal immigration into Massachusetts, and up to the government shutdown in our nation’s capital. Show your own opinion of these issues and situations by voting at all levels from now on. It’s not only important, it’s also the best possible way to show how dedicated we are to the United States of America – the world’s very first democratic republic. And to wish our nation a Happy 250th Birthday this coming year as well.
Island came alive with Halloween spirit Saturday! From spooky fun to creative costumes, families had a blast exploring Fort Independence and celebrating the season at the Castle Island Association Halloween Celebration. More Photos Page 9
Castle
Sen. Collins Backs Bill Expanding PAs’ Authority in Involuntary Treatment
Backs giving PAs expanded authority under Section 12 & 35 of State Public Health Law
Senator Nick Collins, a member of the Joint Committee on Mental Health, Substance Abuse and Recovery, recently
submitted testimony in support of legislation that would expand the authority of physician assistants to initiate psychiatric holds and petitions under state law. His testimony emphasized the need to modernize the Commonwealth’s behavioral health system by empowering front-line clinicians and ensuring timely access to care.
The legislation, An Act enabling physician assistants to authorize psychiatric holds and ensure adequate training on their use, would expand the list of professionals permitted to initiate a psychiatric hold under Section 12 to include physician assistants (PAs). Senator Collins also urged lawmakers to extend this same authority to Section
35 of Chapter 123, allowing PAs to petition on behalf of individuals suffering from alcohol or substance use disorder.
“Physician assistants are highly trained medical professionals who are often the first to respond when someone is in crisis,” said Senator Collins.
“Allowing them to initiate Section 12 and 35 petitions will save lives by reducing dangerous delays and connecting people to care when every minute matters.”
The bill also requires three hours of specialized training for any professional authorized to initiate a psychiatric hold, a provision Senator Collins praised as an important safeguard to ensure these assessments are
carried out fairly, accurately, and with proper oversight.
Collins noted that expanding this authority will help fill critical gaps in behavioral health response, particularly in emergency departments and underserved areas where access to physicians and mental health specialists remains limited.
“Our communities are facing an unprecedented mental health and addiction crisis,” Senator Collins said. “We need every qualified clinician ready and empowered to act. Expanding Section 12 and 35 to include physician assistants is a practical, compassionate step toward getting people the help they need.”
Happy (and safe) Halloween
Halloween is for our children, of course. And just as obviously, they are completely, totally excited about it. In fact, a majority of our young ones say that Halloween is their favorite day of the year. But that means they may not watch where they’re going.
We’re sure you’ve been told many times to keep an eye on your kids while they are trick-or-treating. They’ll be traversing sidewalks and crossing streets excitedly; they’ll be easily distracted as they do this. You must ensure their crossings are made safely. We also recommend that you carefully check each and every “treat” they receive, before they put it into their Halloween bags. You should limit how much of these “treats” they consume. We’ve even heard that excited kids who have allergies (like to peanuts) might eat the wrong “treat” without thinking.
So watch the children in order that you’ll have a Happy Halloween, too.
Councilor Flynn Respectfully Asks For Your Vote Tuesday, November 4th
It is an honor to serve as your District 2 City Councilor, and I have worked hard each and every day for our residents and community. With multiple challengers now also on the ballot with me this year, I am respectfully asking for your vote again on Tuesday, November 4th so that I may continue to focus on constituent services and advocate for quality of life issues in District 2.
Over the last few years, with the help of strong neighborhood advocacy, we were able to share some key victories. These include new Boston EMS & Boston Fire Department stations in the South Boston Waterfront, a new Josiah Quincy Upper School and affordable housing developments in Chinatown, a new Thomas C. Foley Little League Field at Major Christopher Lee Playground in South Boston. We helped to secure funding for the South End Library, reconstruction to Crite Park, and improvements to several others like Titus Sparrow Park and the Peters Park Little League Field. We established the One Downtown Task Force to address public safety concerns around the Boston Common area. Moreover, we were able to preserve Sister Mary Veronica Park in South Boston, and advocate effectively against the impracticality of the bus lanes at both Summer Street and Boylston Street, with each ending over the
last year. I advocated for additional Copley Library funding and continue to work with Back Bay neighbors on public safety quality of life issues, such as the drag racing that took place last year.
Throughout my time in office, I have used my position of public trust to speak out on many important issues impacting the city. As an elected official, my focus has always remained on public safety, housing stability & affordability, social & economic justice, and quality of life issues for our residents and families.
In terms of public safety, I have been a strong advocate of pedestrian safety. I advocated for a 12 point safety plan and held hearings to advocate for traffic-calming infrastructure improvements on high traffic roads, slower speeds and increased enforcement. I’ve held hearings on many other public safety issues in the City of Boston. In addition, I have consistently called for hiring hundreds of Boston Police Department officers every year for the next ten years to address long-standing issues of forced overtime, overstretched resources, and looming retirements.
When it comes to housing, I held hearings during my time in office on affordable housing and the Inclusionary Development Policy (IDP) to help keep working families in Boston. I have held hearings and advocated for property tax relief for longtime neighbors. I also passed an ordinance previously to help our seniors who have fallen behind on their property taxes to pay with reduced interest and on more affordable terms. I continue to advocate for neighbors and civic groups when it comes to zoning and licensing matters at City Hall.
Moreover, I have always stood with our working families seeking fair and living wages, affordable healthcare, safe working conditions
and a secure retirement. Whether it was United Steelworkers during the National Grid lockout, Unite Here Local 26 at Marriott Hotels, UFCW 1445 at Stop & Shop or Macy’s, my family and I have always been proud to stand with organized labor.
With accessibility and inclusion in mind, I continue to advocate for improved language access at all levels of our city government. My social media posts are translated into Spanish and Chinese, and I have several women of color on my staff who are bilingual. In addition, I have been working on the issue of digital equity and ensuring that our residents have access to affordable internet and digital resources. I also work closely with the Disability Commission on accessibility for our persons with disabilities.
I continue to advocate at City Hall when it comes to many neighborhood and quality-of-life issues, including a dedicated Office of Pest Control to provide this public health issue the attention it deserves. Government serves us best when it takes the legitimate concerns of its citizens seriously. I have not only listened to your concerns, but have taken the lead on issues affecting our most basic government services. I promise to continue to advocate on behalf of the people of District 2, listen to your feedback, be accessible in our community, and work hard to deliver results for all of our neighbors.
Thank you, Ed Flynn for Boston City Council info@edforboston.com
At-Large City Councilor Erin Murphy: A Proven Advocate for All Boston
Families — Your Vote Matters
As voters begin to cast their ballots for the at-large City Council seats, At-Large City Councilor Erin Murphy is asking residents of South Boston and across the city to support her campaign. A former Boston Public Schools teacher with
24 years of classroom experience and now serving her fourth year on the Boston City Council, Murphy brings a lifetime of advocacy, experience, and heart to City Hall. Why vote for Erin Murphy?
Real-world experience: Murphy spent over two decades as a teacher in Boston Public Schools and understands first-hand the challenges facing our schools, families, and neighborhoods.
A voice for every neighborhood: As an At-Large City Councilor, Murphy has pledged to serve every corner of Boston, from South Boston to Dorchester, Mattapan to East Boston, with transparency, accountability, and dedication.
Proven leadership on key issues: Whether it is championing students’ access to sports, fighting for better working conditions for educators, or working to make our city safer and more equitable, Murphy has delivered results.
Committed to being present, listening, and acting: Murphy’s campaign slogan says it all: Show up, Listen, and Help.She emphasizes that this is not just how she campaigns; it is how she leads.
“Boston families deserve a Councilor who has been in the room, seen the problems up close, and knows how to get to the solution,” said Murphy. “Whether you are a parent, a teacher, a business owner, a renter, or an immigrant, I am here for you. I will continue to show up, listen, and work hard every day for our city.”
Murphy encourages voters to cast one of their four votes for Erin Murphy and to take advantage of early voting or make a plan to vote on Election Day. She believes that progress happens when people participate and when their representative is ready, willing, and able to deliver.
Breakfast with the Flynn’s
Ambassador Raymond L. Flynn and his wife, Cathy, hosts breakfast and endorsed Frank Baker for Boston City Council-At-Large. Ambassador Flynn led the city to what it has become through his service as both Mayor of Boston and United States Ambassador to the Vatican.
Fall Back Sunday
In case anyone missed the announcement, Daylight Saving Time (DST) ends at 2 a.m. on Sunday, November 2. Move your clocks, watches, and electronic timekeepers, now on Eastern Standard Time (EST), back one hour, as in that old saying “Spring forward; fall back”.
Many folks would like to keep DST all year ‘round. There’d be no resetting of clocks in March and November. Some have even recommended that Boston joins the Atlantic Time Zone, which really means the same thing as being on DST all the time. Does “DST” then become “AST”? It would literally take an act of Congress to determine that.
Cheryl Itri Recognized for 50 Years of Service
Boston City Councilors Erin Murphy and Ed Flynn present a City Council Resolution to Cheryl Itri in recognition of her 50 years of dedicated service to the South Boston Neighborhood House. Cheryl, who continues her work with the organization, was honored for her decades of leadership, compassion, and commitment to the South Boston community.
This is a Public Meeting for the proposed 391 D St project, located in the South Boston neighborhood of Boston. The purpose of the meeting is to discuss the overall potential impacts. The meeting will include a presentation followed by questions and comments from the public.
Rep. Biele Helps Protect Public Transit Workers from Assault
Bill expandings current laws on assault and battery against public employees
State Representative David Biele joined his colleagues in the Massachusetts House of Representatives to pass legislation that strengthens protections for public transit workers by expanding current laws on assault and battery against public employees. The bill, entitled An Act relative to assault and battery upon a transit worker, ensures that transit employees receive the same legal heightened protections as other public employees while performing their jobs.
Current Massachusetts law imposes heightened penalties on individuals for assault and battery against public employees including police officers, firefighters, emergency medical personnel and other government workers. This bill adds public transit workers to that list.
The bill also clarifies and broadens the definition of assault by specifically recognizing that projecting bodily fluids, such as spitting or throwing substances like urine, constitutes assault against a public worker. Under the House bill, offenders would face a sentence ranging from a minimum of 90 days to 2.5 years in a house of
correction, a fine between $500 and $5,000 or both.
“Everyone should feel safe in the workplace and this legislation establishes protections for those who provide crucial services every day across Massachusetts on our public transit systems yet have faced increased attacks and abuse in recent years,” said Rep. Biele. “I was proud to cosponsor this bill and to join my colleagues in House in passing legislation which will help those who serve our communities feel safe, supported and protected in their workplace.”
“We thank the House for voting in favor of this important legislation to protect our MBTA train and bus operators, and all public transit employees,” said Jim Evers, President of Boston Carmen’s Union Local 589. “Protecting transit workers is essential to maintaining a safe and quality public transportation system. This bill will ensure the safety of the essential workers who keep our communities moving every day. We look forward to swift passage in the Senate so that these vital protections can be signed into state law to safeguard transit workers for generations to come.”
Having passed the House of Representatives 160-0, the bill now goes to the Senate for consideration.
Celebrating the Naming of Billy Baker Field
Under a crisp blue sky and the sound of bagpipes, dozens of family members, friends, former players, coaches, and community leaders gathered at Moakley Park to celebrate the naming of Billy Baker Field — honoring the man who, nearly four decades ago, founded the South Boston Youth Soccer League and forever changed youth sports in the neighborhood.
Jack Baker, Billy’s youngest son, opened the ceremony with humor and heart. “My mother thought 20 or 30 people would show up, and she was worried about parking,” he said to laughter. “Obviously, more than that showed up.”
After young South Boston resident Eve Polaski performed the National Anthem — a nod to the long-standing tradition
Billy started at every league opening — Jack shared stories that captured both the humble beginnings and the lasting impact of his father’s work.
“In 1985, when the soccer league started, we used to play our games down at M Street Park,” he recalled. “I don’t even think we had uniforms. Kids were wearing jeans and sweatshirts. It didn’t really matter.”
That first championship was played “in torrential downpours,” he said, with players “covered in mud, filthy,” and the field probably glass and dog poop. Still, it became one of the most memorable days in the league’s history. Now, nearly 40 years later, that same spirit of community was alive as South Boston gathered to dedicate the new field in Billy’s honor.
by Rick Winterson
There has been both bad news and good news on the Boston sports scene since the summer ended. Perhaps most significant is the New England Patriots’ performance so far. As you know, just over halfway through their seventeen (17)-game season the Pats’ record is a strong six (6) Wins and two (2)
Sports by the Numbers: Fall, 2025
Losses. This record translates into a quite creditable .750 percentage.
To appreciate this even more, it’s best to look at their total scoring numbers. In their eight (8) games so far this season, the Pats have scored 213 points, an average of twenty-seven (27) points per game. In their two (2) losses to the Raiders and the Steelers, they scored only thirteen (13) and fourteen (14) points; in their six (6) wins,
they’ve averaged a strong thirtyone (31) points in each game. This has led to five (5) wins in a row. The Patriots’ defense numbers also deserve a look. On average, their defense allowed eighteen (18) points per game. Even in their two losses, the Pats defense let in only 20 and 21 points. In the Pats’ six (6) wins, the defense held their opponents to an average of just seventeen (17) points
BOSTON LOGAN INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT CONSULTATION SESSION
Massport will host a hybrid (in-person and virtual) consultation session on the Boston Logan International Airport 2023/2024 Environmental Data Report (2023/2024 EDR). A representative from the Massachusetts Environmental Policy Act (MEPA) O ce will participate.
The hybrid Consultation Session Public Meeting is scheduled for: Wednesday, November 5, 2025 at 6:00 PM
Cathy Leonard-McLean Community Room at the Logan Airport Rental Car Center* 15 Transportation Way East Boston, MA 02128
To join the meeting virtually, please visit www.massport.com/environment/boston-logan-edr-espr-data-portal
•The meeting will be streamed in both English and Spanish, with Spanish interpretation available for in-person attendees.
•Requests for additional language interpretation services must be submitted on or before Friday, October 31, 2025 to: community@massport.com
Please note that an electronic copy of the 2023/2024 EDR is available on Massport’s website at www.massport.com/environment/boston-logan-edr-espr-data-portal
Additional copies of the 2023/2024 EDR may be obtained by calling Brad Washburn, Massport, at (617) 568-3546 or emailing bwashburn@massport.com during the public comment period.
Massport has requested an extension of the public comment period, which began on October 22, 2025 (the publication date of the MEPA Environmental Monitor) and will end on January 9, 2026
Written comments may be submitted by January 9, 2026 to:
The Honorable Rebecca L. Tepper, Secretary Executive O ce of Energy and Environmental A airs Attn: MEPA O ce Jennifer Hughes, EEA No. 3247 100 Cambridge Street, Suite 900 Boston, MA 02114
Comments may also be submitted electronically via the MEPA Public Comment Portal at: https://eeaonline.eea.state.ma.us/EEA/PublicComment/Landing/
*The Cathy Leonard-McLean Community Room is located on the lower level of the RCC at Boston-Logan International Airport. The RCC is accessible by the MBTA via Airport Station or the Silver Line, followed by a Massport Shuttle Bus. Please allow additional travel time if using the MBTA. Parking is available at the loading dock area on Porter Street and in designated visitor spaces in front of the RCC.
per game, which is quite good. There are some downsides to think about, such as the Pats’ soft schedule so far. Their last three opponents - the Saints, the Titans, and the Browns – have dismal records of just one (1) Win each. And while the Pats look good to make the playoffs, there are eight (8) other teams that boast six-and-two (6-2) records, as well as one (1) team – the Indianapolis Colts – that has lost just once.
Aside from numbers, the Pats have a coach named Vrabel, a quarterback named Maye, a budding defense, and the ability to both run and pass on offense. But enough about them.
As of this writing, the Boston Celtics are one (1) and three (3). Believe it or not, this is entirely understandable because the Celts have lost a large chunk of their 2023-2024 teams. Forward Jrue Holiday and Center Kristaps Porzingis have gone to the Trail Blazers and the Hawks, respectively. Back-up Center Luke Kornet now plays for the Spurs, and the Celtics’ spark plug Al Horford now plays Center for the Warriors. And of course, Jason Tatum is out indefinitely with an Achilles tendon rupture. So, five key players are gone! However, Anfernee Simons, traded in from the Trail Blazers, led the Celts to their first win this season with twenty-five (25) points on Monday evening over the Pelicans.
The Bruins are still trying to find themselves as well. Unfortunately, they choked up during that six (6)game losing streak. As of now, only three NHL teams have less points than the pitiful eight (8) points the Bruins have earned after ten (10) games.
Of course, the Red Sox have left the scene, even though they showed some life at the end of the MLB season. Our only conclusion isn’t really numerical: first and foremost, the Sox need another pitcher, and also an added reliever, if available. Boston fans love Red Sox hitters of course, but even the very best hitter connects only one (1) out of three (3) times at the plate.
Castle Island Association Halloween Celebration
Ms. Ciara Rushe’s Grade 2C students at South Boston Catholic Academy had a chance to make their own special lantern to celebrate Diwali which is the “Festival of Lights”. This is a multiday Hindu festival celebrated by millions worldwide that signifies the victory of good over evil, light
SBCA Grade 2C News
over darkness, and knowledge over ignorance. A special Thank you to Keerthi Sugumaran, for coming to the Grade 2C classroom to share and explain this Hindu Tradition of the “Festival of Lights”. She helped her child and her child’s classmates in 2C, make their very own colorful lanterns to celebrate the festival of Diwali.
2C students have, also, been busy completing their fall projects to demonstrate the skills they are working on in reading, writing and math. They created an acorn writing craft which described their favorite part of the fall season. In math, they solidified their knowledge of fact families and put together a “fact family candy corn” project for some
Halloween fun. After reading the “Leaf Thief” book as a class, students assembled a flip book that discussed story elements like: characters, setting, problem and solution. Great work 2C! New families are welcome to email our admissions team at admissions@sbcatholicadacademy. org for more info. about South Boston Catholic Academy.
Indoor Heated Garage Parking Space Available
Indoor heated garage parking space, that would accommodate an SUV or smaller.
The location is on Bolton Street between Dorchester Street and F Street. Available December 1st. Price is 500.00 dollars per month. Contact is my email, maryloupowers15@ gmail.com
The City Planning Department is hosting a virtual public meeting to discuss the recently filed Small Project Review Application for 460 West Broadway in South Boston. The proposed Project includes the adaptive re-use of vacant former bank building, with a commercial addition, up to six stories; new occupancy to include courtroom and offices/support space for use by the Trial Court of Commonwealth; with 20 garage parking spaces for court and residential use. The purpose of the meeting is to provide an update to the design of the proposed project. The meeting will include a presentation followed by questions and comments from the public.
For more information about the project visit: bostonplans.org/projects/development-projects/460-west-broadway
Ms. Mary Shanley Turns 100
The Boston City Council presented Ms. Shanley with an official Resolution recognizing her 100 years of life, love, and community spirit. Born in a small village in Galway, Ireland, she came to America at the age of 19 as the eldest of nine children, showing strength and courage from an early age.
Mary met her beloved husband, Michael, at the Hibernia Hall, a place filled with music, Irish dances, and joy. They were married at St. Cecilia’s Church in the South End, honeymooned in New York, and eventually settled in Dorchester, where they raised four beautiful daughters.
Her creativity and warmth could be felt in every Irish dance costume she made and every batch of her famous chocolate chip cookies. She is the proud grandmother of three granddaughters, Mary, Cassidy, and Genevieve, and recently beamed with pride at Cassidy’s wedding. After a lifetime of love, laughter, and family, Mary now calls South Boston home.
It was wonderful to celebrate this extraordinary milestone surrounded by her daughters, friends, neighbors, and Father Joe White, who offered a blessing in her honor.
a.m. on the
of
This is NOT a hearing date, but a deadline by which you
a written appearance and objection if you object to this proceeding. If you fail to file a timely written appearance and objection followed by an affidavit of objections within thirty (30) days of the return day, action may be taken without further notice to you.
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
917 E Broadway South Boston 02127
Appeal Type Zoning
Hearing Date 11/6/2025
Project Description: Change occupancy from office to single family residential. Finish basement with living room gym bathroom. Addition on top garage extending 2nd floor connect addition
26 Barnard PL South Boston 02127
Appeal Type Zoning
Hearing Date 11/18/2025
Project Description: Four parking spaces residential on private way with existing curb cuts. Property is landscaped grass sand stone, all property permeable materials
1812 Columbia RD South Boston 02127
Appeal Type Zoning
Hearing Date 11/18/2025
Project Description: Proposed new 3 family residence with 5 parking spaces as per plans. Demolish existing house on lot
75 to 77 Dorchester ST South Boston 02127
Appeal Type Zoning
Hearing Date 11/18/2025
Project Description: Combine Parcels 1886 Amp 1887 Demolish Existing Structures Erect New 5 Story Mixed Use Building, 1 Retail Restaurant Unit Core Shell 15 Residential Units W Partial Basement Elevator As Per Plans
562 E Fifth ST South Boston 02127
Appeal Type Zoning
Hearing Date 12/9/25
Project Description: Change occupancy to 6 reduced 4 unit dwelling Renovating adding an existing single family become multi building Scope includes demolition rear portion Building provide new story 3 addition Upgrades life safety fully sprinklered amp alarmed without elevator ePlan Application assigned FD PW on 2 12 25 ONE FAMILY 1057 1985 Revised BOA Hearing plans scope reduce modified 7 10
850 to 852 Summer ST South Boston 02127
Appeal Type Zoning
Hearing Date 12/9/25
Project Description: Change occupancy ground floor, add 3453 sf furniture showroom space on left side 2662 H R Block office right rear to existing 3100 Mystryde Fitness Center
ABUTTER’S MEETINGS
58 Old Colony Ave
Proposal: “Greenside Athletics” indoor golf simulator concept transferring wine and malt beverage with cordials license to this location, closing hour 11PM
Time: Wed, Nov 5⋅7:00pm Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Proposal: Change occupancy from restaurant, retail fish store, dry cleaners, to restaurant with take-out and professional office. Existing restaurant will be expanded and capacity will be slightly increased.
Time: Wed, Nov 12⋅6:00pm Eastern Time (US and Canada) Join Zoom Meeting: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/84929816843 Meeting ID: 849 2981 6843
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Resilient Moakley Park: In-Person
Date: November 8th, 2025 / Time: 11am-1pm
Location: Curley Center 1663 Columbia Rd. Boston, MA 02127 (Use M St entrance) provided.
Resilient Moakley Park: Virtual
Date: November 13th, 2025 / Time: 6pm-7:30pm
Join us for a virtual community meeting. Get an update on the project and provide input on the future of Moakley Park! This meeting will cover the same information as the in person event.
List Treat -and-
Rooney Real Estate, LLC.
The biggest treat this season is listing with us and seeing your property sell!
