South Boston Today May 6 2021

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May 6, 2021: Vol.9 Issue 18

SERVING SOUTH BOSTONIANS AROUND THE GLOBE

Gangs Of Bike Riders, ATV And Dirt Bikers Are Getting Out Of Control Across The City

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ver the last few years, South Boston has had spates of low-rider vehicles and bikers of all levels roaring into town and commandeering the stretch of road between the Murphy Rink and the Castle Island

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What Can Or Should The BPD DO? Are They Allowed To Do Anything To Stop Them? Should They Ask Social Workers To Step In And Counsel Them?

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May 6, 2021

EDITORIAL Frustrated Residents Taking Action Over Loud Parties

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quote by a frustrated lifelong resident pretty much sums up the feelings of a growing number of locals, which by the way includes many new arrivals as well as long timers: “Southie has become an amusement park on weekends”.

Other descriptions of the situation are ‘circus’, ‘party central’, ‘continuous Mardi Gras’ and many other terms but you get the picture. It seems that now, nearly every block in the neighborhood has at least one

loud raging party going on until all hours of the night and into the morning, some continuing from Friday through Sunday. Some blocks are dealing with as many as three and even four out of control parties at the same time.

These locations have been deemed ‘Problem Properties’ by the City of Boston Inspectional Services Department and the Boston Police because that’s exactly what they are.

The crowds, noise and even dam-

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age aren’t limited to the inside of the apartments, the roof decks and back yards. Roaming groups of intoxicated people, often yelling and screaming at the top of their lungs, for reasons unknown, are spreading the noise throughout the community.

The litter these groups leave behind is an eye sore. You know it must be bad when the young students from some of our schools have as their first assignment on Monday morning, going out with trash bags to pick up the empty food containers and beer bottles left all over the school grounds by irresponsible “adults”. So, this is the situation but what is the solution?

Well, South Bostonians have always been known for their ability to organize and rise to the occasion when there is a need. Residents of every age have come together to combat this. They are holding zoom meetings with literally hundreds of people participating, voicing complaints and offering real solutions.

But they are not just meeting. They have morphed into a very effective force and they are taking action.

They are gathering addresses of the ‘problem properties’ and the absentee landlords, who own the apartments and taking it all to city officials and demanding and getting action. Hefty fines amounting

to thousands of dollars and possible evictions could be coming soon.

South Boston’s elected officials have stepped up to assist with dealing with chronic offenders in a big way.

The city’s Inspectional Services Department’ is going out to the party houses with warnings and citations and police are responding as well.

These actions are sending a clear message that the neighborhood has no intention of letting this problem continue and there will be consequences for those who persist in disrupting the quality of life in this community. To the many senior citizens and families with small children and everyone else who has been negatively affected by this, it looks like the current actions being taken will bring relief soon thanks to the solid work and commitment by some very dedicated neighbors.

(Note: Police have asked that the number to call to report loud parties is 911, not 311)

“Hear me clearly. America is NOT a racist country” @BostonPlans

- US Senator Tim Scott (R. South Carolina)

Teresa Polhemus, Executive Director/Secretary

SouthBoston TODAY

Publisher • John Ciccone

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May 6, 2021

Information Center The

You Can’t Always Get What You Want SOUTH BOSTON TODAY John Ciccone

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he weekly quote in this issue of South Boston Today is by US Senator Tim Scott, Republican of South Carolina. Senator Scott is also an African American. In response to Biden’s address to congress last week, Senator Scott took issue with many things said. About the subject of ‘systemic racism’ that Biden’s party keeps harping on and blaming white Americans for, Senator Scott said the following: “Hear me clearly; America is NOT a racist country”. Well, that statement brought in quite a bit of backlash from white liberals all over social media and virtually none of it was pretty.

The attacks on Tim Scott were vile and personal towards him and even his family members, and above all VERY racist from the side that accuses everyone else of racism. The few insults hurled at him that are actually fit to print, were ‘Traitor’, Uncle Tim, whitey wannabe and one Democrat elected official even called him an ‘Oreo’ as in black on the outside but white on the inside, because he dared praise the United States of America, stated his support for police and the military and denied the systemic racism claim

by Biden.

And the insults, harassment and even threats are still coming at the South Carolina senator and his family more than a week after his speech. But Senator Scott, being the courageous patriot he is, refused to back away from his stated positions even a little bit. Instead, he issued the following response: “No amount of backward bigotry from the left will shake my faith in the goodness of America”. This statement of course brought even nastier backlash, but he didn’t care. He meant what he said.

Note: talk back to John Ciccone by email at jciccone@southbostontoday.com

Senator Tim Scott came up the hard way. He was born poor and worked hard for everything he has achieved. He is one of our nation’s finest serving elected federal officials and makes his constituents proud. Some might ask why I sing the praises or even bring up the subject of a senator from South Carolina, when Massachusetts has two US senators of its own. The answer is simple. The senators from Massachusetts are Ed Markey and Elizabeth Warren.

When have we ever heard either of these two political opportunists praise the United States? They are more interested in tearing it apart and dragging it down the road to Socialism. So, since Massachusetts does not have a US senator to make us proud, at least, in my view, for comparison sake, I felt the need to give praise to one who by his hard work, pride and love for our country and impeccable character has earned the respect of all Americans.

One of the biggest annual and traditional events in the land is of course the Kentucky Derby. It’s watched and followed by millions of enthusiastic Americans, whether they are lovers of horses or not.

Since it is the apparent goal of leftists/progressives to change and ruin every cherished tradition in the country, it was only a matter of time before they turned their efforts to the ‘Derby’. These activists, as most people realize, could find racism in a corn muffin. So, this year they say they found the Derby’s opening song ‘My Old Kentucky Home’, one of the anthems of that proud state, to, of course, be racist, and demanded that Derby officials stop playing it. But to their credit, those officials had no intention

of being ordered around, bullied or intimidated by the demands of the Cancel Culture radicals. They refused the demands and played the song to the cheers of the massive crowd in attendance.

The act of holding firm when Cancel Culture crazies make their demands should be an example to people in every city, state and town in America. When they demand statues and monuments be taken down, holidays be changed and even eliminated, songs be prohibited from radio air time or TV shows be removed, a firm ‘NO’ needs to

be the answer. The leftists in our country are under the impression that everything they dislike must be banned and everything that they DO like must be declared a human right and paid for by taxpayers.

If you give them their way, they come right back for more. Enough is never enough. That saying “give them an inch and they’ll take a mile” describes them perfectly. But instead of bowing and catering to them, the words from that old Rolling Stones song would be the way to go – “You can’t always get what you want”.

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May 6, 2021

Window Into The State House

Window Into The State House provides our readers a synopsis of important issues of interest, past and current, that are being proposed, debated or acted upon by the Massachusetts Legislature. Many issues that are not related to local city government services are acted upon and have a direct impact on daily life. They are tax policy, transportation infrastructure, judicial appointments, social services and health, as well as higher education.

We will excerpt reports from the gavel-to-gavel coverage of House and Senate sessions by news sources focused on this important aspect of our lives.

These sources include a look ahead at the coming week in state government and summaries and analyses of the past week, re-caps of a range of state government activity, as well as links to other news.

No preregistration required How much of a shift has there been in the demand for vaccinations in Massachusetts? WCVB reports that the days of preregistration for shots are coming to a close. Meanwhile, from the Herald: “Walk-ins for coronavirus vaccine shots in Massachusetts more common, open slots at mass vax sites.” And from MassLive: “UMass Memorial begins demobilizing COVID field hospital at Worcester DCU Center.” What a difference a few weeks make.

The lost generation: Chronic student absenteeism soars during pandemic But here’s some non-positive news on the pandemic front.

SHNS’s Katie Lannan reports on a big spike in chronic student absenteeism during the pandemic, especially among English learners, economically disadvantaged students, and students with disabilities in Massachusetts.

Are liberals addicted to lockdowns?

Emma Green at The Atlantic makes the argument that, deep

down, many blue-state liberals love the lockdowns and can’t quit them despite the scientific evidence. Let’s just say Massachusetts plays a prominent role in the article. The Globe’s Shannon Larson has the local reaction to the charge that liberals are almost by nature control freaks.

As lawmakers probe David Almond’s death, the Baker administration announces DCF changes MassLive’s Steph Solis and the Globe’s Matt Stout report on yesterday’s legislative oversight hearing on the tragic death of 14-year-old David Almond – and the Baker administration’s announcement of changes at DCF amid criticism the agency dropped the regulatory ball in the case.

Among the changes: Resumption of in-person visits to children DCF oversees, after suspension of visits during the pandemic.

As for the hearing itself, from CommonWealth’s Shira Schoenberg: “Many issues with Fall River teen’s death still don’t add up.” And then there’s this from Schoenberg as well: “Report

says 479 children harmed last year under state supervision.”

Quincy College: Maybe it’s better off joining the state system instead?

Mary Whitefill at the Patriot Ledger reports that some city councilors want to explore the possibility of the cityrun Quincy College joining the state’s community-college system – even as Mayor Thomas Koch looks to build the college a new home and invest millions of dollars in the school.

Is this the year driver’s licenses for immigrants finally wins passage?

SHNS’s Chris Lisinski reports that some Democrats believe the pandemic has bolstered the need to take action on various immigrationrelated bills, one of them the longdebated idea of allowing immigrants to get driver’s licenses. And the license bill now has 101 co-sponsors on Beacon Hill.

Judge overturns last remaining conviction against Sean Ellis It was an epic, decades-long battle, but Sean Ellis finally prevailed.

WBUR’s Ally Jarmanning reports that a Suffolk Superior Court judge

has effectively overturned the last remaining charge against Ellis, who spent more than 20 years in prison for the killing of a Boston police detective and who later won release after investigators themselves were accused of wrongdoing.

From mayoral candidate to potshop owner Universal Hub reports that the city’s zoning board has approved plans by former city councilor and mayoral candidate Tito Jackson to open a three-story cannabis shop near Boston’s Custom House. The proposal now heads to the state Cannabis Control Commission for final review and possible/probable approval.

Protecting shellfish for years to come This is a high-interest item in coastal areas. From SHNS’s Michael Norton: “Clear guidance on aquaculture licensing and permitting, labeling that enables point of harvest tracing, and better data collection on stock assessments and recreational harvest numbers are among the recommendations of a 21-member public-private task force that examined the Massachusetts shellfish industry.”

SEN. COLLINS VOTES TO INCREASE INVESTMENTS IN VETERANS HOUSING & SERVICES

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tate Senator Nick Collins joined his colleagues in the Massachusetts State Senate in passing a bill authorizing $400 million to build rebuild the Holyoke Soldiers’ Home and an additional $200 million for regional facilities and services for veterans across the Commonwealth.

“I am proud to support this legislation representing an important commitment to our veterans throughout the entire state for

their service to our nation,” said Senator Nick Collins.

The legislation comes after a review of the facility’s management, governance and infrastructure in the wake of the tragic deaths of 76 veterans at the Holyoke Soldiers Home during the COVID-19 pandemic.

As part of the legislative response, the Special Joint Oversight Committee on the Soldiers’ Home in Holyoke COVID-19

Outbreak was created by the Legislature to examine the chain of command, communications, and leadership of the Holyoke Soldiers’ Home.

“It is critical that as we invest in facilities and services that show our veterans the dignity and respect they deserve, we do so with proper oversight to ensure that taxpayer dollars are well spent and the failures that took place last year don’t happen again.”

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SOUTHBOSTONTODAY • www.southbostontoday.com

May 6, 2021

Councilors Flynn & Flaherty File Hearing Order On Large House Parties

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oston City Councilor Ed Flynn & Councilor AtLarge Michael Flaherty are calling for a hearing at this week’s City Council meeting to discuss increasing fines for large house parties, and ways to provide stricter enforcement rules regarding large house parties, indoor gatherings, and the city’s noise ordinance.

There have been an overwhelming number of reports of large house parties in South Boston that are disruptive to their neighbors, with many residents highlighting noise and trash removal issues as negatively impacting their quality of life. This hearing order aims to discuss the possibility of substantially increasing the fines for large house parties, so that the city can ensure that both noise and public health regulations are followed.

Neighbors have reported large house parties, oftentimes between 30-40 people, hosted by renters with absentee landlords. Even as more people are getting vaccinated, large house parties are concerning not only because of their potential to become superspreader events, but also due to their noise and impact on the quality of life for our residents. These partiers often disturb neighbors with loud noises at all hours of the day and night, and leave behind trash and litter on

the street which attracts rodents and pests. In Governor Baker’s COVID-19 Order #63, it stated that no private gatherings be more than 10 persons in a single enclosed, indoor space, and failure to comply may result in a civil fine of up to $500 per violation. Last fall, Councilor Flynn and Councilor Flaherty held a hearing with the administration and city officials on this issue.

However, despite the Governor’s order and public health guidance, there are many reports of large house parties all over the city, with 600 911 calls in one weekend alone in South Boston. Residents are to report large house parties to the Boston Police Department at 911, which can trigger the Inspectional Services Department’s Investigation & Enforcement team to review the properties, potentially place them on the city’s Problem Properties List and issue a $500 fine, with the owner of the property required to address these violations. Aside from issuing fines for violating the Governor’s COVID-19 orders, the City of Boston should also look to issue increased fines, perhaps starting at $1,000 for a first offense, and explore $2,000 for a second offense, and $3,000 for a third offense for those that repeatedly violate the city’s noise ordinance.

“I’ve heard from literally

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hundreds of neighbors that are outraged over these huge house parties in South Boston. Time and again we’re seeing renters, from absentee landlords, who want to extend their college frat days every Thursday to Sunday at all hours while showing blatant disrespect for their neighbors next door; young families, our seniors and persons with disabilities. The neighbors that helped to build this city, that live here and contribute to their community, that are paying increased property taxes while dealing with more quality of life issues - they’ve had enough,” said Councilor Flynn. “This is not only a public health issue with potential superspreader events in COVID-19, but it will undoubtedly continue to present these quality of life issues beyond it. It’s critical that the City of Boston get a handle on this and look to increase the fines for those who violate state and city regulations, so that we help keep our neighborhoods peaceful, healthy and clean. I look forward to continuing to work with Councilor Flaherty, the Boston Police, ISD, public health officials, neighbors, and civic organizations on this issue.”

“Enough is enough. These out of control parties have been a burden on South Boston and communi-

ties across the city for too long,” said Councilor Flaherty. “We have tried to control them with the tools currently available to us, but these landlords and their tenants are not getting the message. It is time to hit absentee landlords and their tenants in the pocketbooks with increased penalties. We have no other choice if we stand any chance of improving the quality of life for our residents.”

For more information, please contact Councilor Flynn’s office at 617-635-3203 or Ed.Flynn@ Boston.gov.

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May 6, 2021

Councilors Flynn, Breadon, and O’Malley File Resolution in Support of School Opt-In Bill

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ouncilors Ed Flynn filed a resolution this week cosponsored by Councilors Liz Breadon and Matt O’Malley in support of the state bill H.D. 4120, “An Act relative to the educational needs of students whose education was negatively impacted by the COVID-19 emergency.”

This resolution would send the Boston City Council’s support for the passage of this bill, which will allow students to stay for an additional academic year if their education has been impacted by the pandemic.

The COVID-19 pandemic has deeply impacted all of our students, as they were forced to adjust to remote learning and changing learning environments.

As a result, many students have experienced tremendous learn-

Gangs continued from front page

parking lot, often frightening and shocking visitors and regular ‘walkers’. Now the Franklin Park area community is having the same problem only worse.

In an initial report by the Boston Herald, dirt bikes, ATVs, loud music and late-night parties are running rampant through footpaths and fields of the city’s largest park where many folks and families traditionally seek their peaceful refuge.

“The situation is out of control,” said Dorothy Fennell, who lives beside Franklin Park. “This wouldn’t be tolerated in the Public Garden or the Common. The city is not managing the situation and because they’re not managing it, they’re now facing opportunities for crashes and potentially pitting members of the community against each other.” Fennell, who has lived in the area for 15

ing loss, and felt unprepared for graduation. Students with disabilities are particularly impacted by COVID-19 and learning loss, as many require in person instruction and services. Many of these students would also like to stay for an additional year, but some may reach 22 years of age and will be aged-out of the school system by 2022.

H.D. 4120, known as “An Act relative to the educational needs of students whose education was negatively impacted by the COVID-19 emergency”, sponsored

by Rep. Edward Coppinger, would allow students the option of staying in school for an additional year. Under the bill,

students who are scheduled to graduate in 2021 or 2022 from a district high school or charter school can opt into an additional year of schooling if the student or their guardian determines that the student’s education has been negatively impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The bill would also allow students receiving special education who will be 22 and are due to graduate in 2021 or 2022 to opt into an additional academic year.

“This past year has been extremely difficult for many of our students, especially students with disabilities. Students had to navigate the stress of COVID-19 while adjusting to the new reality

of remote learning, and many are feeling unprepared for graduation both emotionally and academically,” said Councilor Flynn.

“H.D. 4120 will help address learning loss, and give students and their parents the choice to stay in school for an additional year so that they are better prepared before they graduate from school. I want to thank Councilor Breadon and Councilor O’Malley for their partnership, and look forward to passing this resolution so that we can send our support for this bill.”

For more information, please contact Councilor Flynn’s office at 617-635-3203 and Ed.Flynn@Boston.gov.

years, said police and city park rangers seem “overwhelmed” by the sheer volume of dirt bikers and partiers. Councilor Matt O’Malley, who represents Jamaica Plain, called the dirt bikers, ATVs and loud late-night parties a “quality of life issue and an obvious public safety issue.”

In a seemingly convoluted statement by a Herald editorial, community collaboration that includes all parties is being suggested. “… Boston Police said they are working to crack down on illegal dirt bikes and ATVs — and that’s a good thing. With the shooting of a 22-year-old pregnant woman in Harambee Park, less than half a mile away from Franklin Park over the weekend, general safety is a also a top concern. Policing is necessary, but in our current climate, a call for increased law enforcement presence has to include community input. And

that includes the riders and partiers. Hopefully, law enforcement, political leaders and members of the community can hash out rules of usage, perhaps limiting some access to bikes and ATVs, or imposing party curfews and noise limits. Any sort of “you’re not welcome here” crackdown will succeed in displacing the raucous.

And then the question becomes: Where will they go next?”

Neighbors worry about the potential for violence. Last August, a man was fatally shot near the park entrance. More recently, violence has afflicted other Boston parks. Just last week a spray of bullets erupted at South Boston’s Moakley Park yards from where children were holding lacrosse and track practices.

Boston Police said they are working to crack down on illegal dirt bikes and ATVs. “We direct patrols to certain areas as needed and

strongly urge anyone with information on where dirt bikes are being stored to contact the police,” said spokesman Sgt. John Boyle.

Just after 6:30 p.m. on Sunday, a man riding his bicycle at Pierpont Road and Glen Lane was found laying on the ground and bleeding from the hand after a collision with a dirt biker who fled the scene. A police report notes “75-100 off road vehicles … operating erratically at high rates of speed” were observed in the area.

About an hour later and less than a half-mile from Franklin Park, a 22-year-old pregnant woman was shot in Harambee Park. Emergency responders said in a police report it was “extremely difficult” to reach the bleeding woman “due to hundreds of vehicles, dirt bikes and ATVs” double-parked on the streets.

With a hot summer coming, time is not on anyone’s side. Stay tuned.

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SOUTHBOSTONTODAY • www.southbostontoday.com

May 6, 2021

REP. BIELE SUPPORTS PASSAGE OF $47.7 BILLION HOUSE BUDGET Includes over $431 million for the City of Boston; invests in education, recovery, and public services

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ast week, State Representative David Biele joined his colleagues in the Massachusetts House of Representatives in passing the state budget for fiscal year 2022 (FY22).

Funded at $47.7 billion, the House budget makes a strong commitment to cities and towns, and includes significant investments in education, mental health and substance addiction services, public health, and public services.

The House FY22 budget does not cut services and does not raise taxes, both made possible due to strong revenue collections, increased federal reimbursement, and by leveraging funds from the state’s Stabilization Fund. The budget does not appropriate anticipated American Rescue Plan (ARP) funds, as the House awaits the issuance of spending parameters by the federal government.

“This budget invests programs and services, including educa-

tion, public safety, recovery services, and public health, to help residents across our community. The budget also makes crucial investments in local aid for the City of Boston to help support local services,” said Rep. Biele. “I am thankful to Speaker Mariano, Chair Michlewitz and my colleagues in the House for their support in making these crucial investments in our youth, families, and seniors.”

Locally, the City of Boston is set to receive over $431 million in local aid. Under the House FY22 budget, the City of Boston will receive $223.7 million in Chapter 70 education funding, an increase from last year’s budget, which fully funds the first year of a six-year implementation plan under the Student Opportunity Act. The House budget also includes over $208.2 million in Unrestricted General Government Aid for the City of Boston, representing an increase from last year, and

providing additional resources to Boston.

Reflecting a strong commitment to providing access to care and treatment for individuals with a substance use disorder, the House budget allocates $160 million for the Bureau of Substance Addiction Services, and includes language filed by Rep. Biele to increase funding for localized treatment and recovery services.

The House FY22 budget also authorizes funding for public safety services, including state police patrols along Day Boulevard, Carson Beach, M Street Beach and Castle Island, as well as support for the Boston Fire Department Training Academy.

The House FY22 budget also supports public health services at the South Boston Community Health Center, localized efforts to increase food access and food security for vulnerable residents and families, and funding for workforce develop-

t u o heck

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ment programs.

The House FY22 budget was released on April 14, 2021, following a review of the Governor’s proposal and a series of budget hearings by the House Committee on Ways and Means.

After debate and consideration over a thousand proposed amendments, the FY22 budget passed by the House of Representatives unanimously (160-0) and now goes to the Senate.

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The

Wine Guy

Wet Spring Wines

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his just in...it’s been a miserable Spring. You can be outside grilling, but you better grab that fleece. I think this might be one of those Spring cycles where it’s in the 40’s and raw, until one day we wake up and it’s 88 and that’s the way it’ll be until October. But, while it’s still raw, here are a few wines to have….

Tiare Sauvignon Blanc, Collio, Italy, ($24.99), came on the scene in 2019 and went on to win awards that had only gone to more expensive Sancerre wines (that are all,

of course,made from Sauvignon Blanc). This is the exceptionally rare Sancerre-like stunner that you can afford to drink whenever the urge strikes. Bursting with Sicilian lemon and floral aromas and an energizing palate of nectarine and bright acidity, the bone-dry 2019 Sauvignon Blanc is an achievement that makes it crystal clear why Tiare has stunned international judges and critics for years. It’s next to impossible to find Tiare’s wines in the States, and this is a don’t-think-twice value on one of the world’s best. It’s only a matter of time before the price catches up to the prestige. You might give Total Wine a try.

Bernard Baudry Chinon, 2017, Loire Valley, France, ($16.99), is one of my favorites for weather like this. It’s Cabernet Franc, light, with sharp red fruit notes and it can be served slightly chilled, like Beaujolais. It’s aged in old oak for about 15 months, which gives it a nice balance, solid acidity and a very smooth finish. Maybe Beef

I Was Just Thinking…

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by Kevin Devlin

his upcoming Sunday is Mother’s Day. It’s a day, but shouldn’t be the only day, for those whose mothers are still amongst us, to tell them how much you love them and appreciate all they have done for you throughout the years.

For those whose moms are no longer walking with us, it’s a time to reflect upon how wonderful, caring, and loving they truly were when you were able to see them smile, hear them laugh, and feel their unquestionable and unconditional love.

My mother, Mary (O’Toole) Devlin passed up to the Heavens in 1988, a long time ago. But I still miss her and always will. I was the youngest sibling and therefore the “baby” of the house. I was always kidded by my brothers and other family members that I was the spoiled one, my mom’s favorite. But that wasn’t true.

My mom loved all my brothers (as well as her grandchildren) equally albeit in a different way, but still with the same intensity which only

a woman, a mother, a grandmother can generate while protecting, loving, and nurturing those in her life who matter the most.

We didn’t have much back in the day.

Yet we didn’t complain because we did have family.

We did have love.

I did have a mother who cared for me, who worried about me, who counseled me when I was lost, and never once doubted that I would follow the right path as my life’s journey unfolded.

This Mother’s Day, if you are able, kiss and hug your mother. Tell her she’s the greatest. Tell her you love her. Tell her without her, life just wouldn’t be the same. Because it never is.

If you can’t do that, reflect on days long past. Envision her smiling at you once again while you were watching TV or eating supper at the kitchen table.

Close your eyes and tell her you still miss her and always will.

And keep your love for her alive in your heart and she will forever live within your soul.

Tenderloin with wild rice and Bella mushrooms covered in Bourbon Barrel Smoked Gouda cheese?

Just a thought.

Scharffenberger Brut Rosé Excellence Methode Traditionnelle, Mendocino County, CA ($26.99).

Sparkling wine has been the hallmark of special occasions and celebrations since its accidental discovery centuries ago, and it’s easy to see why.

From the quintessential “pop” of the cork to the beautiful, endless stream of bubbles floating to the surface, everything about this particular wine exudes attention and overindulgence – but one California winery is on a mission to change that.

Nestled in the rural and raw Anderson Valley, Scharffenberger Cellars has quietly been making some of the state’s most delicious, and affordable, sparkling wines since 1981. Founder John Scharffenberger selected the estate in the Anderson Valley because of its warm daytime temperatures and cool, foggy evenings. These large diurnal shifts help maintain the natural acidity in

May 6, 2021

the grapes while also pushing the fruit to showcase character and generosity – two aspects which make superior sparkling wine.

Today, winemaker Jeffrey Jindra continues Scharffenberger’s tradition of crafting high quality Pinot Noir and Chardonnay-based brut and rosé sparkling wines perfect for any occasion. “Sparkling wine doesn’t need to be a celebratory beverage, and it’s part of my job to dispel that” says Jeffrey, “big occasions are great, but so is the everyday.” Take his advice on this one.

Château de Fabrègues 2020 Grenache-Syrah Rosé (Costières de Nîmes), ($19.99), is a striking fresh wine that has aromas of strawberry and citrus mixed with delicate notes of green apple. The palate offers sharp focus, pronounced minerality and a crisp, refreshing finish.

Calamari and Greek salad or Broiled Scallops with asparagus lightly drizzled in Hollandaise sauce might do the trick on a raw day in May. Talk To The Wine Guy at jdris8888@gmail.com

SOUTHBOSTONTODAY • www.southbostontoday.com

May 6, 2021

To the World you are a Mother To your family you are the World A Mother is She Who Can Take The Place of All Others but Whose Place No One Else Can Take.

Senator Nick Collins • First Suffolk

Celebrating All Moms on Their Special Day, Happy Mother’s Day With A Special Wish To My Mom. State Representative ~ David Biele 4th Suffolk District

(Paid for by The Committee to Elect Nick Collins)

(paid for by the committee to elect David Biele)

Happy Mother’s Day And Best Wishes Celebrating my Mom and All Mothers on this special day!

To my wife, sister and all mothers out there!

This Mother’s Day, I am missing and thinking of my own mother.

I promise to honor her legacy and continue to advocate for all the South Boston mothers, women and girls, just like she did.

Michael F. Flaherty Boston City Councilor At-Large

www.MichaelFlaherty.com Twitter @michaelfflaherty

(Paid for by The Michael F. Flaherty Committee)

Ed Flynn • Boston City Council • District 2 • @EdforBoston (Paid for by the Friends of Ed Flynn Committee)

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SOUTHBOSTONTODAY • www.southbostontoday.com

Gatey Hoop Notes

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By Kevin Devlin

t was a little brisk last Sunday morning, but the day warmed up and so did the Gatey hoop enthusiasts at the Michael Pano hoop court which is located inside M Street Park.

The Gate of Heaven CYO boys’ instructional league basketball program has been run by Sean Monahan and Michael Donovan for over twenty years. They depend on

many volunteers including adults like Freddie Haddad who has been involved in this program for the past three years, as well as James Donovan, who for over the last ten years, has volunteered as a referee, scorekeeper, and whatever else they needed him to do to make sure the program runs smoothly.

Additionally, Gatey Commissioners Monahan and Michael Donovan, also depend on current High School

May 6, 2021

players who have been through the Instructional program when they were younger. This year they have Jake Harrison, a Senior at Boston Latin, bound for Western New England University to play basketball.

Eddie Murray will be Joining Jake, graduating from Catholic Memorial this year and will be playing baseball for Western New England.

Tommy White, a senior at Boston Latin, who is committed to Bucknell on a Track Scholarship, is always around to help the younger players.

And they have two juniors from

BC High, Connor Strickland and Owen Donovan, helping out. Connor played for the varsity basketball team this past year. All the high school volunteers are doing double duty this Spring as they are also coaching in the Gatey boys’ midget league as well.

The girls’ league is overseen by Allison Baker, who does a terrific job. The girls play after the boys.

(A special thanks to Allison Baker for taking the girls’ league pictures, and to Sean Monahan for supplying the boys’ league information.)

James Donovan always doing his best for Gatey hoop

Eddie Murray is quiet but firm with the youngsters

Tommy White is all smiles when it comes to Gatey hoop

Connor Strickland loves the game and does a great job with the young players

Gatey Commissioner, Sean Monahan, is always around to teach the young players the fundamentals of hoop

Pictured with the coaches are the Gate of Heaven CYO boys’ instructional league hoop players

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SOUTHBOSTONTODAY • www.southbostontoday.com

May 6, 2021

The George and Mary Lally Club is coached by Danny Nee and Bobby Pierce (missing from picture)

The Jacqueline Madden Club is coached by Allison Baker and Jacqueline Beggan

The Barbara Caputo Club is coached by Christine Kelly and Kaity O’Brien

The Kelly Collins Club is coached by Ashley Coughlin and Erin Alexander

Mairead, Mia, and Gianna really love being involved in the Gatey hoop program

Paul DiManno (on left) and Kevin Lally (Gatey’s Athletic Director) are taking a welldeserved break from their officiating duties

GoFundMe Effort To Support Will Good’s Recovery

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ill Good, a popular South Boston resident from a close-knit family (parents-Jane and Bill, sister-Elizabeth), was an Uber passenger in a serious car accident on his way home from work, early in the morning of Friday, April 30th.

This is a statement from the GOFundMe page: “Will has suffered a significant neck and spinal injury and is cur-

rently in MGH’s Neurology ICU. We don’t know what the future will look like for Will, but we do know he faces a long road to recovery. Our goal is to raise funds to help cover his hospital and rehab needs and allow him to live independently. Will Good has touched our lives, whether through his work in so many of Boston’s great restaurants, screaming the lyrics of his newest song, bumping shoulders in the pit or on

a bar stool, or walking through the neighborhoods of Boston he’s called home his whole life.

We know this year has been financially straining for most people, and we thank you for any amount that you can provide. Please keep him and his family in your thoughts. Will is lucky to have so many people in his corner, any funds that are not used for his needs will be paid forward in donation to Spaulding

Recovery, whose mission is to provide care, promote education, and advance rehabilitative research.”

If you wish to help, go to: https://www.gofundme.com/f/ s93t5-will-good-recoveryfund?utm_campaign=p_cp_ url&utm_medium=os&utm_ source=customer

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SOUTHBOSTONTODAY • www.southbostontoday.com

May 6, 2021

There Was A Whole Lot of Shredding Going On!

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he Mass Bay Credit Union hosted another successful Shred - It event last Saturday in the adjacent parking lot to their building located at 147 West Fourth Street. The South Boston community looks forward

to the Shredding announcements and appreciates the event. People were greeted by Andrei Ganea, AVP of Loan Servicing, as he handed out MBCU bags and directed drivers to the lot where Brian Kelley, VP of Marketing

at MBCU and Conor Sullivan of Shred - it helped remove boxes, bags and folders filled with documents, paper and files into the recycling containers. The barrels were then pushed to the Shred - it truck where Conor

took over and you could actually see your documents being shredded. A big shout out to Mass Bay Credit Union and Brian Kelley for providing this service and we’re already hearing “when is the next one?”

May 6, 2021

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SOUTHBOSTONTODAY • www.southbostontoday.com

South Boston Catholic Academy News

2A News and Happy Mother’s Day wishes to all mothers!

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rom Ms. Olsen, the Grade 2A Teacher…The students kick started a new science unit by going outside to explore different plants, animals, and other things that may be seen around the school yard. The students had the option to either draw what they saw or write down what they saw using their words. When they were outside, they were eager to point out what they were seeing to one another. They worked diligently to find as many things as possible.

When we went back inside the students shared what they had observed. As a group we discussed which objects needed water, food, and oxygen to survive and labeled them living.

The students went off on their own and sorted their observations into living and non-living categories. Great job with this Science Project 2A! God Bless all mothers on this upcoming Mother’s Day weekend and always, from all of us at South Boston Catholic Academy! New families are welcome to email Mrs. Jamie Brown at j.brown@sbcatholicacademy. org to learn more about South Boston Catholic Academy.

World War II Veteran Celebrates 100th Birthday at Compass on the Bay

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orld War II Army Veteran Ottavio Cerullo rang in his 100th birthday in style on April 26th alongside his sister and the residents and staff of Compass on the Bay in South Boston. Affectionately known as Ott, the Memory Support Assisted Living community pulled out all the stops for his birthday, including a giant cake made by the community’s dining team, balloons, a surprise birthday video with all of his friends, and special citations from State Representative David Biele and Boston’s Commissioner of Veterans Services Robert Santiago recognizing Ottavio’s service.

Local Southie residents may

remember Ottavio after a request for cards for his 99th birthday last year drew widespread attention and a celebratory car parade down Columbia Road. While Ottavio did get to enjoy some time on Compass on the Bay’s porch over the weekend, waving to well wishers driving by, he was most excited to spend the milestone birthday with his sister Yolanda, who also lives with him at the community.

“It’s such an honor to be able to celebrate Ottavio’s life like this, and we’re so grateful to the members of our community who pitched in to make his day so special,” said Compass on the Bay’s Executive Director Jenna Petrenko. “This was an event that I know

I’ll never forget.”

Located on Columbia Road for more than 25 years, Compass on the Bay is an Assisted Living Community dedicated exclusively to those with Memory Loss. For

more information on Compass on the Bay, visit www.CompassontheBay.com. To view more photos and videos from Ottavio’s birthday celebration, visit www.Facebook. com/CompassontheBay.

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SOUTHBOSTONTODAY • www.southbostontoday.com

St. Peter Academy Mrs. Laura Hesek- Our Crown-Wearing Grade One Teaching Superstar

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hen asked why she loves her job, Laura Hesek does not hesitate. “It’s my kids” she says. The first-grade teacher at St. Peter Academy takes great pride in connecting and engaging with students through a variety of creative methods. On any given day, Hesek can be seen greeting children while happily donning her signature teacher’s crown, a recurring feature that changes in theme and color to her students’

delight each calendar month.

“Mrs. Hesek goes well above and beyond for each student in her class. She does whatever she can to engage the students fully in the learning that’s being accomplished. She cares greatly about each student as a whole. We have been so thrilled with the learning goals that our children have met while they were in Mrs. Hesek’s classroom. St. Peter Academy is incredibly lucky to have this com-

mitted and loving teacher for it’s students and community.” – Emily and Jim Condon.

“The small class sizes at St. Peter’s allow me to easily tailor instruction for all of the kids, says Hesek, who is now in her fifth year at the non-profit, community-based school. “It’s so rewarding to see the kids grow in understanding throughout the year. Laura Hesek is a teacher who really embodies the St. Peter Academy mission of maximizing the potential of every child. She is an avid believer in using data driven instruction to create differentiated independent work, flexible student groupings, and targeted individualized interventions to meet the unique needs of her learners at our school all

May 6, 2021

throughout the year. A lifelong educator, Hesek received her Master of Education from Lesley University, a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Maine at Farmington, and an Associate Degree in Liberal Arts from Cazeovia College.

St. Peter Academy in an independent, community-based private school and serves students from ages 15 months through grade 6.

SPA is currently accepting applications for the limited spaces available in the year-round toddler program (beginning at age 15 months) and for students in Pre-K, Kindergarten and grades 1-6. Appointments for individual virtual tours can be made by contacting Maria Blasi, at 617268-0750 or by emailing m.blasi@ StPeterAcademy.com.

South Boston Resident Inducted into National Honor Society at BC High

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homas Lowe (BC High Class of 2021) has been inducted into the Robert J. Fulton, SJ Chapter of the National Honor Society at Boston College High School.

A minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.5 is required of all applicants. Beyond the grade

point average, applicants must be a positive presence in their academic classes. They must show initiative and dependability, work well with other students, exhibit a strong work ethic, and demonstrate openness to growth.

The National Honor Society (NHS) was created by the National Association of Secondary School Principals to recognize high school students who have distinguished

themselves in their school and community. Each year eligible juniors and seniors are invited to apply for membership in NHS. Applications are reviewed by a committee of BC High teachers to confirm that each student has attained a high standard of each of these characteristics: scholarship, character, leadership, and service.

At BC High, NHS members are committed to service in the school

and in the broader community. All students applying for membership must be current with the completion of required community services hours for their grade level at BC High. After induction into NHS, all members are expected to offer significant service to the school community as tutors in the Academic Resource Center, as ambassadors at Open House and Admissions events, and in other capacities.

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SOUTHBOSTONTODAY • www.southbostontoday.com

May 6, 2021

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This week,

Danny reacted to the Patriots drafting Mac Jones in the first round:

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he sports media never ceases to amaze me.

I turned on ESPN this week to see what the analysts were saying about the New England Patriots’ draft picks. And obviously, the top story was how Bill Belichick drafted Alabama quarterback Mac Jones with the No. 15 overall pick on Thursday night.

And those analysts, as I figured, were proclaiming Jones as the Patriots’ starting quarterback. At times, it almost felt as if they forgot Cam Newton had just re-signed with the Pats for another year. It’s one thing to have the ability to be the Patriots’ starting quarterback straight out of college — which I agree with them, Jones does have that ability. But it’s another thing to say that Belichick is going to give him that starting role right away.

After watching the behind-thescenes war-room footage of Belichick and the Patriots deciding to take Jones at No. 15 overall, it certainly didn’t feel as if anyone in that room was overly excited with taking Jones at that spot.

The Patriots released a 2-minute video of the Patriots’ war room as they made the final decision to select Jones in the first round. Belichick

stands up, calls over a few of the boys, and asks, “We’re all good with this?”

The video then cuts to Belichick asking national scout Matt Groh one more time, “Matt, you’re good on this?” It sounded as if Groh was good on it.

Then, as owner Robert Kraft is shown walking around the room, Patriots director of football administration Berj Najarian asks Belichick, “Bill, do you want me to get him?”

To which, Belichick responds, “Yup, I’m good with it.”

Najarian then picked up the phone and officially put the pick in: the Patriots were taking Mac Jones at No. 15 overall.

Given the type of talent that Jones is expected to be as a first-round pick after leading Alabama to an undefeated championship season, and considering the Patriots are essentially tabbing Jones to be their next franchise quarterback by taking him with their first-round pick, the video footage from inside the Patriots’ war room as they confirmed the drafting of Jones is pretty wild.

It’s wild because it really didn’t feel like Belichick was too excited to be drafting Jones. And that video has lead some to believe that per-

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haps Belichick didn’t want Jones in the first place, and that maybe the pick was demanded by Kraft in a desperate attempt to try and replace Tom Brady.

My final verdict is that Belichick had the final say on the pick, and perhaps he just wasn’t in love with anyone available at that spot. But also, as Belichick pointed out in his press conference after the first round, he knows that Newton is his starting quarterback in 2021.

That’s not necessarily the headline you saw on ESPN, but it’s true.

And I agree with Belichick. Newton should be the Patriots starting quarterback this season.

I wasn’t even on board with bringing Newton back for one more year, but since the Patriots did, and since it’s a one-year incentive-based contract, I think it’s probably in everyone’s best interest to make Jones the backup to begin the season. That would probably explain Belichick’s lack of enthusiasm during the team’s behind-the-scenes video as they made their first-round pick.

The sports media though, always looking to stir the pot, thinks Belichick is going with Jones as the starting QB to begin the year, much like they thought Belichick was going

to trade for Jimmy Garoppolo after re-signing Newton.

What isn’t everyone understanding about the Newton signing? There’s literally no reason for Belichick to re-sign Newton if he’s planning on making somebody else his starting quarterback in 2021. I could see if he drafted Jones at No. 15 overall and then re-signed Newton after Newton couldn’t find any other takers. Then, and only then, would you be able to convince me that Belichick plans on making Newton his backup QB. But that’s not what happened. He signed Newton first. Then he drafted Jones. He then reaffirmed to the media that Newton is still his starting quarterback. And yet, you still have people in the sports media saying that Jones will be the Patriots’ starter in Week 1.

I’m not buying it. If the Patriots get out to a 2-5 start, will that change? It quite possibly could. But right now, this is still Newton’s offense. And Jones’ presence as the backup could be that extra motivation that Newton needs to get the job done.

The Mac Jones era can wait until 2022. And I’m OK with that.

Follow Danny on Twitter and Instagram @DannyPicard.

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SPORTS TODAY PATRIOTS SELECT Tweet of the EIGHT PLAYERS Week IN 2021 NFL DRAFT

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SBT Staff

he 2021 NFL Draft is now in the books, and the New England Patriots drafted eight players, including a quarterback in the first round.

With the 15th overall pick on Thursday night, the Patriots selected Alabama quarterback Mac Jones.

It marked the first time that Bill Belichick has selected a quarterback in the first round, and the first time since 1993 that the Patriots organization took a quarterback in the first round. That QB in ’93 was Drew Bledsoe, as the No. 1 overall pick.

In the second round on Friday night, the Patriots moved up from

46th overall to 38th overall in a trade with the Cincinnati Bengals and took another player from Alabama, 6-foot-5 defensive tackle Christian Barmore.

New England then selected Oklahoma defensive end Ronnie Perkins in the third round, followed

by Oklahoma running back Rhamondre Stevenson in the fourth round, Michigan linebacker Cameron McGrone in the fifth round, Missouri safety Joshuah Bledsoe in the sixth round, Colorado offensive tackle William Sherman in the sixth round, and UCF wide receiver Tre Nixon in the seventh round.

The story of the draft was the quarterback situation in the first

May 6, 2021

WHATTOWATCH

I

f you watched or listened to any of the post-draft analysis talking heads this week, you’d notice many of the “experts” believe that Mac Jones is ready to be the New England Patriots’ starting quarterback in Week 1 of the upcoming 2021 NFL season.

Under normal circumstances, that would probably be the case for a quarterback selected with the 15th overall pick by a team that’s look-

ing to find its long-term replacement for the greatest quarterback who’s ever lived. But given the fact that the Patriots have already re-signed Cam Newton to another one-year deal, immediately slotting Jones into that coveted QB1 spot on the depth chart isn’t going to be Bill Belichick’s first move.

After Thursday night’s first round, Belichick opened up his press conference by reaffirming his commitment to Newton as the Patriots’

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round on Thursday. Five quarterbacks were taken in the first round, beginning with three quarterbacks being drafted with the first three picks.

As expected, the Jacksonville Jaguars selected Clemson QB Trevor Lawrence at No. 1 overall.

Also as expected, the New York Jets then drafted BYU quarterback Zach Wilson with the No. 2 overall pick.

The big mystery was what the San Francisco 49ers were going to do with the No. 3 overall pick that they trade up to before the draft.

It was expected that the 49ers would take a quarterback, but which one? Well, we found out that their guy at No. 3 was North

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starting quarterback.

“As always, draft day is always an interesting day,” said Belichick after the first round. “A lot of preparation, and we just have to wait and see how things unfold. So, Mac [Jones] was available there at our pick, and he’s a guy we spent a lot of time with, and felt like that was the best pick at that time for us. And I look forward to working with him. He’s a smart kid.

He’s been in a system that’s similar to ours. We’ve had a lot of good

Dakota State QB Trey Lance. That left Ohio State QB Justin Fields and Alabama QB Mac Jones on the board, with both expected to be drafted in the first round.

The Chicago Bears struck first, moving up from No. 20 overall to No. 11 overall in a trade with the New York Giants, in order to draft Fields, and perhaps stealing him from the Patriots. Had the Bears not traded up, it’s more than likely that New England would’ve had to make a decision between Fields and Jones. Perhaps the Patriots would’ve still taken Jones over Fields, but because the Bears traded up to grab Fields first, the Pats didn’t have much of a choice.

conversations with him. I think he’ll be able to process the offense. It’s obviously going to take a lot of time.

We’ll see how it goes.

“Cam’s our quarterback,” Belichick continued before even being asked any questions. “Whatever time Jarrett [Stidham] or Mac are ready to challenge and compete, then we’ll see how that goes. But right now, for Mac, he’s got a lot of learning in front of him. I know he’s very anxious to get going on it and get started. So we’ll start trying to give him material to work on and be ready for.”