South Boston Today June 24 2021

SouthBoston TODAY Online • On Your Mobile • At Your Door

June 24, 2021: Vol.9 Issue 24

SERVING SOUTH BOSTONIANS AROUND THE GLOBE

Controversy Alert to Parents At The Condon School

WWW.SOUTHBOSTONTODAY.COM

T

oston T

ay

S o ut

hB

od

he Condon Community School in South Boston has been the site of rising tensions this academic year. Parents of students, and even some staff members, current and former, have registered complaints ranging from mistreatment of staff by some in the administration to accusations of sexual harassment and failure to act on those complaints by those in charge.

In addition, what some see as the

@SBostonToday

ads@southbostontoday.com

@SBostonToday

CONTINUED ON page 6

“ONE OF THE BEST RATES AROUND!” Home Equity Line of Credit

1.75%

APR* 1st 6 months then prime minus .75% for life

2.50%

Got Plans?

APR*

current fully-indexed rate

Apply Online, By Phone or By Appointment.

massbaycu.org

(617) 269-2700

SOUTH BOSTON – EVERETT – QUINCY – SEAPORT *APR= Annual Percentage Rate. 1.75% Annual Percentage Rate (APR) is an introductory rate for the first six months. After the introductory period, rate on the outstanding balances will revert to Prime Rate as published in the Wall Street Journal on the first day of the calendar month minus (-) 0.75%. Prime rate as of 4/1/2021 is 3.25%. The APR may vary monthly. Minimum rate 2.50% and maximum rate 18.00%. 10 year draw period. 15 year repayment period. Minimum $10,000 draw at closing and $1,000 advances thereafter. 80% combined LTV to $200,000 (</=70% LTV $300,000). Proof of adequate property insurance required and Flood Insurance may also be required. Subject to credit approval. Other terms and restrictions apply including 620 minimum credit score. Offer subject to change without notice. NMLS ID #615913

EQUAL HOUSING

OPPORTUNITY

2

SOUTHBOSTONTODAY • www.southbostontoday.com

June 24, 2021

EDITORIAL There Can Be No Let Up In The Efforts To Make Our Streets Safer

I

f you read City Councilor Ed Flynn’s post on the South Boston Today social media sites, you know that a Pedestrian Safety Meeting was scheduled for Thursday, June 24th, at 6:30pm at the corner of N Street and E. Broadway near Medal of Honor Park.

Its fitting that this type of meeting is to be held at that location, not only because of the recent tragic accident that took place this week, but also because of the many other accidents and close calls that have taken place there over the years.

But as virtually every South Bostonian is well aware, its not just at N & Broadway that accidents and near misses take place, it can happen just about anywhere in the community and unfortunately, it too often does.

Granted, because of the way the original designers of Boston’s streets laid out the plans in the early days of the city’s growth, there are what’s referred to as ‘blind spots’ at certain corners and intersections. So many years ago, it was probably impossible for the designers to envision how many motor vehicles would be cramming neighborhood streets causing so many accidents as the horses were much better at avoiding collisions than most drivers. But its not just blind spots that are to blame for accidents; where more and more, pedestrians have to at times, run for their lives to avoid becoming a statistic.

If this problem is to be solved, the addition of more signage, traffic lights and yes, even more

Publisher

Community Meeting

speed bumps couldn’t hurt. In fact, in the locations where speed bumps have been added, there is a noticeable drop in the number of speeding cars. But in addition to the mentioned suggested remedies, the driving habits of motor vehicle operators must get more scrutiny.

If drivers know that if they speed up and down our residential streets, the fines will be much larger than they are now and that if fines don’t put a stop to their speeding, mandatory loss of driving privileges will be imposed, they just might get the message that its time to grow up and slow down. These are city streets, not deserted country roads and Southie is not a NASCAR track. With everyone making an effort to do better and our elected officials asking for and acting on input from individual residents as well as neighborhood groups, things can surely get better.

The help from residents is very important. Because as hard as they try, and they are out there doing their best 24/7, our police can’t be everywhere, it’s physically impossible. They are short of staff and this is a fact. But it’s budget time and if the City Council would advocate for a big increase in the Police Department’s funding, they could not only purchase more of the equipment and resources needed, they could also hire and train more officers which would do so much to bring the situation under control. Lives Depend on it. Together we can do this.

John Ciccone

info@southbostontoday.com PO Box 491 South Boston, MA 02127

Advertising Office 617.268.4032

Mobile 617.840.1355

email ads@southbostontoday.com

Press Copy - Monday at 6:00pm • Advertisements Space Reservations - Friday at 6:00pm • Ad Material - Monday at 4:00pm • Camera Ready Ads - Tuesday at 6:00pm South Boston Today is not liable for errors appearing in advertisements beyond the cost of the space occupied by the error. All South Boston Today produced artwork, design, and layout remain the sole property of South Boston Today. Reproduction in whole or part is strictly forbidden. South Boston Today reserves the right to cut, edit or reject any copy without notice.

South Boston Today is a Series of the Today Publications Series LLC, a Delaware Limited Liability Company

917 East Broadway • 617.268.4032 • Office hours: Mon-Fri 10:00am - 2:00pm

3

SOUTHBOSTONTODAY • www.southbostontoday.com

June 24, 2021

Information Center The

Old Glory Is Under Attack SOUTH BOSTON TODAY John Ciccone

T

he late, great Rush Limbaugh was considered by some to be a polarizing figure. As Americans know, he was the most popular radio talk show host there ever was for more than 3 decades leading up to his death several months ago. His show was carried 5 days a week on more than 600 radio stations and had 30 million listeners. Loved by Conservatives and a majority of moderates and despised by many liberals, he was controversial because of his hard-hitting broadcasts, often done with humor, where he never backed down. Though his detractors would often rage at the positions he took on the issues, he was seldom proven wrong in what he said, and his predictions always seem to come true.

One of those predictions Rush Limbaugh made was that someday, the liberal left in this country would start waging a war on the American Flag itself. When they started their campaign to get rid of the Confederate Flag years ago, an easy target in many parts of the country, he said that it was just the beginning; a prelude to their main target which was Old Glory itself. That prediction was scoffed at by liberals who maintained that Limbaugh was just stirring the pot of hatred by making such an outrageous claim. But Rush never backed down from that claim. And once again, he was to be proven right.

The liberal left’s next target was a half-hearted attempt to actually get the POW/MIA banner removed from government buildings, claiming it was somehow racist. But the Left can find racism in a package of Sunflower Seeds. Playing the race card is all they have, really.

They followed up by claiming the Gadsden Flag, that bright yellow banner with the coiled snake and

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

the words ‘Don’t Tread on Me’ is a racist flag because it flies at patriotic gatherings. The Gadsden Flag was used in the American Revolution and carried by the Continental Marines and today is more popular than ever as it is used to symbolize a pro small government stance and pro gun rights. But just like Limbaugh warned, this too was just a warm up for the Left’s main target – The Stars and Stripes. And this brings us to what’s going on today, a coordinated effort to discredit and eventually get rid of that beautiful Red, White and Blue Banner that flies on high and proudly wherever Americans gather. Most Americans love it, respect it and honor it. Many Leftists hate it and want it gone and don’t even try to hide any longer.

When you see the radicals acting out like spoiled, violent children at their demonstrations, you’ll see the Antifa and Black Lives Matters Flags flying and often the flags of foreign nations waving in the breeze. But the only American flags in sight are the ones they brought along to burn or stomp on. Even in some publicschool classrooms, the flag has quietly and mysteriously disappeared and the Pledge of Allegiance and playing of the National Anthem are no longer happening.

Anti-American indoctrination is started early among impressionable children for best results. An example of that locally in our own community of South Boston was on display recently at the Condon School’s 8th grade graduation ceremony when for the first time, there was no American Flag present and it was announced that unlike other years, there would be no reciting of the Pledge of Allegiance or playing of the National Anthem.

Recently, the insufferable singer,

she of questionable talent, Macy Gray, announced to the world her disdain for our flag. It is old and divisive she shrieked and, of course, racist. She is demanding it be change from red, white and blue to different colors and that more stars be added. Ms. Gray’s rant was followed up by the discovery that Olympic hopeful, a BMX rider named Chelsea Wolfe made the statement that her main reason for wanting to win a medal at the games was so she could burn an American Flag on the stage. And can we ever forget that during the

2020 election season, it was noticed that at the first debate between the Democrat presidential candidates, there was not an American Flag to be found on stage. They took heat for that but didn’t seem to care.

The point of today’s column is to alert those who haven’t already figured out what’s going on to the fact that our flag is under a massive attack by the disgruntled American leftists, who truly hate our country. Also, that Rush Limbaugh was right again and that loyal American patriots cannot and will not allow America’s domestic enemies to win this battle.

Let Our Family Help Your Family

CASPER

Funeral & Cremations Services Established in 1930

Serving Families with Dignity and Respect through the toughest of times for over 80 years Home of Personal Service Pre-Planning Specialists Casper’s specializes in Massachusetts Cremation Services & Veteran Services Please visit our website for information you may find helpful during a time of need www.casperfuneralservices.com

Casper Funeral Home 187 Dorchester Street South Boston, MA 02127

617-269-1930

David Casper Funeral Directors: Joe, Dave & Ken Casper

4

SOUTHBOSTONTODAY • www.southbostontoday.com

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.

Chang-Díaz officially jumps in guv’s race After several months of exploring a bid for governor, Sen. Sonia Chang-Díaz officially announced Wednesday morning that she is running for governor, reports Katie Lannan of State House News Service. The fourth-term Democrat and former teacher is the only woman of color in the Senate and has focused on education and criminal justice reform since arriving on Beacon Hill. Meanwhile, from the Boston Globe’s Emma Platoff: “During the COVID-19 vaccine rollout this year, as vaccination rates for people of color lag behind those of white residents, she has been one of Governor Charlie Baker’s harshest critics, saying in February that the state’s distribution system was ‘a textbook case study of structural racism.’” CommonWealth’s Michael Jonas also has more details on the announcement.

Harvard University professor Danielle Allen and former state Sen. Ben Downing have already declared bids for the state’s highest office.

Unvaccinated make up new COVID hospitalizations MassLive’s Tanner Stening takes a deep dive into Department of Public Health data and finds that a majority of new COVID-19 hospitalizations are among unvaccinated patients.

Is it the drinking water?

Not likely. A second Republican lawmaker plans to skip out on a MassGOP fundraising event as the party continues to contend with the fallout from a state committee member’s anti-gay remarks and the party’s handling of the situation. Boston Globe’s Emma Platoff reports that U.S. Sen. Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) canceled her appearance at a June 24 “chairman’s circle” event, citing a busy week in the U.S. Senate a week before they head into recess. This comes after U.S. Rep. Dan Crenshaw canceled his appearance at a fund-raiser event last week.

Riley rundown Elementary and Secondary Education Commissioner Jeff Riley had a lot to say during a board meeting Tuesday. SHNS’s Katie

Lannan reports Riley’s comments on new regulations requiring vocational-technical schools to develop their own admissions policies “that promote equitable access.” More from Lannan: “Riley said the new regulations will bring Massachusetts more in line with other states, give state officials authority to intervene in cases of non-compliance and update a process that ‘has not been touched’ for 20 years.”

And Boston Globe’s Felicia Gans writes that Riely is “extremely concerned” about resignations on the Boston School Committee. More from Gans: “Riley said his team will be ‘exploring the possibility of maybe temporarily freezing’ the second and third rounds of emergency relief funding for Boston.”

Coalition opposes ride-share companies’ campaigns How should companies classify app-based workers in Massachusetts? That’s the central question of an emerging debate on wages and benefits for drivers working for companies like Lyft, Uber, and DoorDash.

SHNS’s Chris Lisinski reports on the launch of a new coalition

June 24, 2021

that seeks “very basic protections.” From Boston Business Journal’s Lucia Maffei: “The Coalition to Protect Workers’ Rights has some initial funding from the AFL-CIO, as well as different unions and worker organizations, according to its director Mike Firestone, who declined to say how much.”

Coalition takes out $500M worth of ads for Boston race A group of unions and developers are testing the old theory of money talking loud in politics with a new slate of television and radio ads, purchased at a mere cost of $500 million, in an attempt to lobby Boston mayoral candidates, reports Boston Herald’s Sean Philip Cotter.

Mayoral mania: Lawrence, Northampton races attract late entrant Onetime state Senate candidate Doris Rodriguez has formally launched her bid for mayor of Lawrence, making her the fifth candidate in the race, Allison Corneau of the Eagle-Tribune reports. Meanwhile, Northampton’s mayoral contest now has six candidates after the entry of transportation analyst Marc Warner, who says he joined the fray after concluding other candidates are not “taking it as seriously as they need to,” Brian Steele of the Daily Hampshire Gazette reports.

REP. BIELE HELPS SECURE $14.9 MILLION FOR BOSTON’S ROADWAYS

T

his week, State Representative David Biele joined his colleagues in the Massachusetts House of Representatives in passing legislation to fund local street and road infrastructure projects across the Commonwealth under the state’s Chapter 90 program.

The bill distributes $200 million in state funds to cities and towns for roadway infrastructure projects such as resurfacing, sidewalks, traffic control, lighting and drainage.

Funding is allocated based on road

mileage within the municipality, population, and employment. Local municipalities decide how to utilize this funding.

This year, the City of Boston is set to receive over $14.9 million in funding from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts under the Chapter 90 legislation—an increase from last year.

In addition to the $200 million allocation, the bill includes a municipal grant program to support public transit systems and small bridges.

“These funds will support infrastructure projects in the City of Boston and act as resource to improve the safety and reliability of our streets and sidewalks,” said Rep. Biele. “It is crucial that we continue to invest in transportation, and I was proud to join my colleagues in securing funds for local roadway improvements.”

The bill unanimously passed the House of Representatives and now heads to the Massachusetts State Senate for consideration.

June 24, 2021

SOUTHBOSTONTODAY • www.southbostontoday.com

5

South Boston Beaches Are An Oasis Not A Battleground

D

espite the incessant and sanctimonious efforts by the mainstream media, many of which, it seems, have lost their souls in the race to the bottom (i.e., tabloid journalism) – the kind that sells – most ‘not easily influenced’ persons know that Dorchester Bay beaches are oases, and not extensions of the restaurant bar scene nor are they personal turf to fight over.

On Monday evening, CBS reported that State Troopers were called to Carson Beach and told a group of teenagers that they needed to follow DCR rules if they planned to stay at the beach and not disturb other beachgoers. They ordered the teenagers who were smoking marijuana to put out the blunt and leave. “Two members of the group, a 17-yearold male and a 16-year-old male, both from Boston, followed a Trooper around the area for more than 10 minutes yelling expletives and threats at him and other nearby Troopers,” police said.

Police told the group to leave again, but no one was arrested at this time. A short time later a 14-year-old boy from Boston approached a trooper and “directed further insults and slurs at him,” police said. The trooper ordered

him to leave and said if he didn’t, he would be arrested for trespassing. The teen left but returned a few minutes later, at which point he was arrested.

Most of the group left, but at about 8:30 p.m. an estimated 50 teens returned to Carson Beach.

Among them were the 16 and 17-year-old boys who had interacted with police earlier and been told to leave. Police said two 16-year-old girls from Boston allegedly tried to stop the troopers from arresting one of the teenage boys. The girls were arrested for interfering with a police officer.

So, when is the message, that urban beaches are for everyone and that respect for others is fundamental, going to be printed and promoted? In any event, in order to reinforce the message, given these recent outbreaks of “bad behavior”, police presence is likely going to be necessary. That shouldn’t have to be the case among intelligent and common-sense adults and young adults. As one local resident commented, “I wonder how many therapists, social workers or societal theorists are going to give up weeknights and weekends to run ‘let’s get to know you’ sessions with these troublemakers?”

The section of beach from K

St. to I Street, frequented by long time residents, has been neglected by the DCR, populated by weeds and unmaintained sand dunes. It seems that the young folks, who frequent the part of the beach from I Street to G St., are behaving in a fairly civilized manner in that they clean up after themselves. M St. beach, on the other hand, is the abusive section and needs considerable oversight.

Alcohol consumption and in some cases drugs, principally marijuana, certainly contributes to this behavior. Alcohol-to-go sales have been extended under special COVID-19 legislation.

District Councilor Ed Flynn has been out front in calling on the alcohol licensing board to deal with this Covid 19-instigated alcohol delivery phenomenon.

Flynn has said that there have been numerous complaints of people ordering liquor deliveries to an address along M Street or Carson Beach, and then bringing the alcohol onto the beach with beachgoers using addresses across Day Boulevard on Columbia Road to receive alcohol deliveries. They wait for the delivery driver’s text, before running across the street to pick it up. “It’s illegal to deliver alco-

hol to the beach,” Flynn says.

“Someone that has possession of alcohol on the beach is subject to a fine and even arrest,” he says.

“The package stores that deliver to the beach could be subject to a fine as well.”

Flynn and other elected officials recognize that South Boston’s beach alcohol problem isn’t new and existed before the COVID-19 pandemic. “The section of M Street all the way down Carson Beach to the bathhouse, down towards the McCormick Bathhouse, the amount of manpower we’ve put down there over the last two years just to control drinking alone and control the alcohol consumption has been exorbitant,” according to a state police official speaking at an emergency meeting.

But back to the core topic of this story. The media must play a role in protecting these resources, not using them as a backdrop for some salacious, sensational, disingenuous reinforcement of Boston and in particular South Boston as a haven for race based or other king of intolerance. The South Boston community residents, along with residents of many communities across the country, will not stand for it.

6

SOUTHBOSTONTODAY • www.southbostontoday.com

June 24, 2021

Condon continued from front page

attempted political indoctrination of students by school officials is also a charge being raised.

Fliers have been circulating in the area around the school, accusing Condon Headmaster Robert Chisholm of failure to act when complaints are brought to his attention.

As far as the complaints about indoctrination, leaked photos to news outlets have shown what parents consider anti-police literature being distributed to students at the school. Fliers and other literature express to students that police are there to protect only certain students - race being the deciding factor. Parents say they are not happy with the idea being conveyed to their children that police are not protectors but are actually oppressors. This literature is apparently being made available to the young students with the permission of the school’s administrators.

To add to the tension, at the Condon’s recent 8th Grade graduation, an announcement was made to the graduates and others in attendance that this year, there would be no playing of the National Anthem and the American Flag would not be displayed. Yet, with the decision not to have the American Flag present, the BLM and the ‘Pride’ Flags were clearly visible on school property.

At the request of upset parents and staff, South Boston Today Newspaper made a call to the Condon and asked to speak with Director of Operations Mr. James Lambert in an effort to confirm or deny the claims. We were assured that he would return our call as soon as the graduation ceremony had ended. No call was ever returned from Lambert.

We then contacted the Boston School Department Headquarters downtown. We got a fast response from Mr. Jonathan Palumbo at school headquarters who did in fact check into the situation at our request. Mr. Palumbo spoke to those in charge at the Condon and they sent him a copy of the statement read at the graduation ceremony’ It reads as follows: “At this time, we are going to move forward with the ceremony. In years past, we would stand and say the pledge followed by an anthem. This year, in light of all the trauma and endless pain, we want to come together by standing for a moment of silence. Here, at the Condon, anti-racism is embedded into our mission. From our leadership staff down through our student body, we are all encouraged to call out what isn’t right and fair and hold each other accountable to growth despite the discomfort. This collective moment of silence will represent unity, show respect to those who’ve sacrificed and lost their lives that they may not be in vain. As well as to further embody our tone of resilience and show commitment to not participating to intentional ignorance. May all in attendance

who are willing to commit to taking responsibility to ending intentional ignorance, violence and racism and believe that all human beings deserve to be treated with dignity, please stand with me” In response, this newspaper issued the following editorial statement” “To the Condon School Administrators” What was written as justification for your decision seems to say that those in charge at the school feel that the Pledge of Allegiance, the Anthem and the Flag are in some way symbolic of intentional ignorance, violence and racism. The Pledge, Anthem and Flag individually and collectively symbolize unity to many proud Americans of all races.

And yet, this unusual directive appears to be inculcating a questionable and dangerous underlying tone of anti-police and antiAmerican rhetoric into the minds of young, impressionable students.

As evidenced in the national news these last 2-3 weeks, one may have noticed that parents all over the country are speaking out, rising up and organizing against the notion Critical Race Theory (CRT) that has infiltrated schools. It has already been banned in several states with many other states to follow, because it is divisive.

The opposition includes parents of every race and ethnic background. They have had enough of this and local parents in South Boston and beyond, as they learn that this form of indoctrination is happening here as well, are preparing to oppose it too.

The basis for the ‘anti-racism mantra’ that the Condon Administration is cloaking itself in, we believe, is up for debate and should not manifest itself by decree at an 8th grade graduation but should have been part of a collective discussion and vetting among teachers, administrators and parents.

Shame on adults who use young children to

push an ideology that has political and social consequences with students as the pawns. As the saying goes, if students know your politics, you have failed as educators.

It was mentioned in the Condon’s statement that there is ‘trauma and endless pain’. What is the real evidence for this within the walls of the Condon, where it is the responsibility of the School System? Once the student leaves the school, the parents are left to deal with the confusion that this type of rhetoric causes in their child’s minds. If parents are not on board, then divisiveness will set in – the exact opposite of what the Condon purports to achieve with this unilateral directive.

Americans, especially many parents, are waking up to what’s going on, they don’t like it and are not going to tolerate it any longer, nor should they”.

Critical Race Theory, which is what parents say is being put into the curriculum at the Condon and other schools, as mentioned above, is currently a source of controversy in many states. Its supporters say it’s a program designed to expose and combat racism while its opponents insist the goal of CRT is to foster division and suspicion among the races where none exists, turn people against law enforcement and push the idea that America is a country that is racist to the core.

Legislatures and governors in several states have already banned CRT and many others are considering taking the same action. The Governor of Florida stated that “CRT is toxic and that no tax money should go to anything that teaches children to hate their country”. CRT is being strongly opposed by parents of every race.

With parents, unions and elected officials getting involved in what’s going on at the Condon, there are sure to be new developments.

South Boston Today will continue to follow the situation.

June 24, 2021

SOUTHBOSTONTODAY • www.southbostontoday.com

BIG SHIP READY FACT SHEET

C

onley Terminal is the only full-service container terminal in New England, and services more than 2,500 businesses.

Being Big Ship Ready means the Port of Boston will be able to handle ships carrying 12-14,000 TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units/ known as containers); Three elements are essential to Boston becoming Big Ship Ready: • Dredging Boston Harbor, most of which is complete bringing the harbor depth to -47 feet, with the final phase to be completed by 2022. The Turning Basin is being increased from 1,200ft to 1,725ft in diameter to accommodate these larger vessels; • Taller cranes – Massport purchased three new, specially designed low-profile cranes; • New deeper berth– Conley’s Berth 10 was completed and dredged to 50 feet to support deeper draft vessels and the three new cranes. The new berth can accommodate ships with up to 14,000 TEUs. These investments would not have been possible without the support of the Baker Polito Administration, as well as federal and state elected officials.

The Port’s 3 new Neo-Panamax

low-profile ship-to-shore cranes: • Have a lift height of 163ft. (approximately 60% higher than our current equipment); • Two of the cranes are 205 feet high, can reach 22 containers wide, and currently are the tallest low-profile cranes in the world. The other crane is 145 feet high to accommodate for the proximity to a Logan Airport flight path; • Each taller crane weighs approximately 2,900 tons and can lift 65 long tons with the spreader, and 100 long tons with the cargo beam.

Crane Unloading Process: • The Port of Boston’s new Berth 10 was designed to accommodate crane unloading, with removable curbs and bollards;

• A temporary rail system will be constructed in the reinforced area of Berth 10, and the vessel will dock along this section; • Each crane will be unloaded one at a time. Each will be pulled from the vessel onto Berth 10 via the temporary rail system. The crane will be lifted, the temporary, perpendicular wheels will be removed, and the crane will be lowered onto the Berth 10 crane rails; • The full offloading operation is expected to take approximately one week.

Commissioning Process • The cranes need to be “commissioned” before they can service ships at Conley; • This process takes several months and includes inspection,

City Councilor At-Large Michael Flaherty Announces Significant Endorsements in His Bid for Re-Election Endorsements are from a wide-ranging group of 8 labor unions, including the Boston Teachers Union, Boston Firefighters Local 718, and Teamsters Local 25

B

oston City Councilor AtLarge Michael Flaherty announced eight endorsements supporting his efforts for re-election from labor unions active in the Greater Boston area.

The endorsements were from the Boston Teachers Union, Boston Firefighters Local 718, Teamsters Local 25, SEIU NAGE, North Atlantic States Regional Council

of Carpenters, Boston Carmen’s Union Local 589, Boston Plasterers and Cement Masons Local 534, and Boston Ironworkers Local 7.

This diverse group representing Boston’s teachers, firefighters, local government employees, teamsters, MBTA employees, and building trades members believe in Councilor Flaherty’s vision for

the future of Boston, and have pledged their support towards his efforts to secure reelection.

“I am honored to have been endorsed by these great organizations as I work towards re-election,” said Councilor Flaherty.

“These unions represent a diverse swath of my family, friends, and neighbors across the city, and they demonstrate a shared belief in my vision for the future of Boston.” The endorsement process is ongoing and future announcements of additional support can be expected in the coming weeks.

7

testing and staff training on the new equipment; • The process is expected to be completed in the fall.

How will being Big Ship Ready benefit New England?

• The Port of Boston is the only full-service Port in New England; • Becoming big ship ready means Conley can handle the larger ships the industry is already using; • It not only makes Conley more competitive with other East Coast ports, but makes Boston more attractive to new carriers and can open up new trade lanes that are only served by larger ships; • This creates more opportunities for New England importers and exporters in the global marketplace; • The Port of Boston handles approximately 45% of the New England market. This will allow us to grow and capture additional New England cargo.

• These investments also support well-paying blue collar jobs that are important for a healthy, diversified economy Why were the cranes built in China?

• Few companies in the world build these types of cranes, and nearly 99% are built in China.

Shanghai - based ZPMC is the dominant manufacturer; • ZPMC designed, built, and are delivering and installing the new Conley cranes.

8

SOUTHBOSTONTODAY • www.southbostontoday.com

The

Wine Guy

Warm Weather Reds

T

he country of Portugal, located in the west of Europe, closer to the US, is one of the continent’s smaller nations. While it has one of the smaller populations of Europe at slightly more than four million people, it also has the surprising distinction of having more varieties of wine grapes-more than 215 varietalsthan any other country in Europe.

The vast majority of those are red wine grapes and of those, the one that’s the most popular in Portugal and the one that’s rapidly becom-

ing known for its quality and value globally is the “Portuguese Secret”Touriga Nacional.

Like many other grape varieties in Portugal, this is an ancient grape, first thought to have been used over 4,000 years ago. Today, it has the unique distinction of being the only red wine grape that is required by law to be at least 10% of every blended red wine in Portugal. Red blended wines, by the way, make up over 90% of the country’s red wine production; conversely, this is also one of the few red wine grapes that is used by itself. As you might guess, the production of the grape occurs all over the country and there is a broad range of makers and pricing; however, the one thing you should know about red wines from Portugal is that today, they represent some of the best values not only in Europe, but throughout the world.

The following are worth looking for: Delaforce Touriga Nacional 2018 ($23.99). Ever since being acquired by the Taylor-Fladgate Fonseca group, its wines are back on form and aspire to the quality they must have once held in the late nineteenth century when the company supplied the Portuguese Royal Family. The company sources grapes from its own vineyards located in the finest areas of the Rio Torto and Roncão valleys.

The house style is distinguished by delicate fruit flavors, as well as a significant body and a long finish.

Quinta Do Ventozelo Touriga Nacional, 2012, ($22.99). Here we have 100% Touriga Nacional from 25-year-old vines aging in 100% American oak barrels. They stay in the American oak for 8 months but are held at the winey for 6 months for aging before it’s released to the export market. On the nose, it’s warm, spiced red fruit, while on the palate, you’ll get dark strawberries and blackberries, baking spice, chalky tannins and a full mouth feel rounding out over a long finish.

Quinta Da Falorca Touriga Nacional, 2016, ($36.99). In June of last year, when it was released in the U.S., Robert Parker scored it at 95 points, saying, “The 2016 Touriga Nacional Quinta Da Falorca is a blend of Touriga grapes from three plots, two with 40 years of age and the third at ten. It was aged in new French oak for 18 months. The combination of power, finesse and seduction here make this more than a little enticing. To be sure, it is rather unevolved and it needs to pull in a little oak. Even now, though, it is slowly gathering itself. The crisp, flavorful finish, balance and good structure will support this for a couple of decades in all likelihood. It finishes

t u o heck

C

June 24, 2021

with controlled power and persistent flavor. It is always a wine that leans a bit to the Burgundian and this year is no different.”. This is a big, powerful red that will seriously enhance your best roasts or steaks.

Duorum 2018 S&R (Douro); $12.99, 90 points. The partnership between the Soares Franco and Portugal Ramos families has produced this friendly, open and ripe wine that celebrates the city of Porto and the Douro River. Black fruits, a smoky texture and warm tannins are attractively packaged in this readyto-drink wine.

Herdade do Rocim 2019 Amphora (Alentejo); $16.99, 90 points. Aged in amphorae, the wine was made naturally with wild yeast. The result is a fine textured, fruity wine with a strongly juicy character as well as light tannins. The wine should be deliciously ready from 2021.

Warm Weather Reds can make for a hearty summer get together. Give them a try!

Talk To The Wine Guy at jdris8888@gmail.com

Gift Cards Available We Take Reservations

test t o h e th nt a r u a t es new r town! in

15% Off Before 6pm for Dine-In

617.989.9982

PuRPLE SHELL purpleshellboston.com Asian Fusion Tapas

9

SOUTHBOSTONTODAY • www.southbostontoday.com

June 24, 2021

Recent South Boston Real Estate Sales Property/Type

246 Athens St UNIT 2

Price

Sale Date

Rooms Baths

Sq Ft

$1,000,000

4/29/2021

5

2.5

1,206

$1,015,000

4/29/2021

6

3

1,640

Family Owned & Operated Since 1929

Condo 686 East Sixth St UNIT 7 Condo 559 East Sixth St UNIT 1

$1,040,000

4/1/2021

5

3

2,050

3

2

1,275

Condo 53 F St UNIT PH

$1,050, 000 4/23/2021

617-268-4662

 Automatic Delivery Quality Fuel Oil Service Contracts Budgets Discounts Expert Oil Burner Service Complete Heating Service Boiler and Furnace Installations Oil Tank Protection Plans ORDER OIL ONLINE

MetroEnergyBoston.com

Condo 687 East Second St UNIT 9

$1,050, 000

4/6/2021

4

2

1,520

$1,095,000

4/27/2021

4

2

1,240

$1,135,000

4/19/2021

5

2

1,563

$1,170,000

4/14/2021

7

2.5

2,185

$1,180,000

4/30/2021

5

2

1,405

$1,199,000

4/26/2021

5

1.5

746

$1,270,000

4/27/2021

5

2

1,545

$1,300,000

4/30/2021

4

2

1,441

$1,300,000

4/28/2021

5

2

1,608

$1,380,000

4/29/2021

5

2.5

2,042

641 East Broadway South Boston, MA 02127

Condo 562 West Broadway UNIT 4 Condo 321 West Second St UNIT 15

The Evolution of Oil heat

Condo 610 East Eighth St UNIT 1

Virtual Public Meeting

Condo 560 East Fifth St UNIT 2 Condo 155 Seaport Blvd UNIT 901 Condo 560 East Fifth St UNIT PH Condo 340 West Second St UNIT PH 4 Condo 403 West First St UNIT 302 Condo 525 East First St UNIT 4 Condo 928 East Broadway UNIT 8

$1,390,950

4/23/2021

6

2

1,705

$1,404,000

4/28/2021

4

2

843

$1,735,500

4/29/2021

4

2

1,024

$1,749,000

4/28/2021

7

3.2

2,417

$1,894,900

4/28/2021

2

1,159

Condo 135 Seaport Blvd UNIT 1707 Condo 135 Seaport Blvd UNIT 1705 Condo 442 West Third St UNIT1

4

Wednesday, June 30 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM

Condo

Zoom Link: bit.ly/2SSHNcY Toll Free: (833) 568 - 8864 Meeting ID: 160 507 5360

Project Proponent: Biomed Realty LLC. Project Description: This is a reschedule of the original Virtual Public Meeting for the 601 Congress St. project from 6/21 due to a conflict with an observed City Holiday. This will be a virtual meeting to discuss the Project Notification Form (PNF) proposed at 601 Congress Street. The Proponent has proposed a change from office to lab space, additional mechanicals to support the change and minor changes to the public realm. No other changes are proposed. Due to the COVID-19 public health emergency, the Boston Planning & Development Agency (BPDA) has postponed all in-person BPDA-held public meetings regarding Article 80 development projects and planning initiatives. View more information on the BPDA’s COVID-19 response. mail to:

Condo 135 Seaport Blvd UNIT 1807

601 Congress Street

phone: email:

Nick Carter Boston Planning & Development Agency One City Hall Square, 9th Floor Boston, MA 02201 617.918.5303 nick.carter@boston.gov

SOUTHIE AUTO SERVICE

175 Old Colony Avenue • South Boston, MA 02127 Tel./Fax • 617-268-2772 • TONY • HUBIE

7/7/2021

BostonPlans.org

@BostonPlans

Teresa Polhemus, Executive Director/Secretary

EXPERT AUTO BODY REPAIRS

Insurance Work Our Specialty Free Estimates Complete Automobile Service 24 Hour Towing

Close of Comment Period:

www.mcmproperties.com

CM M Properties 917 East Broadway, South Boston

617-268-5181

10

SOUTHBOSTONTODAY • www.southbostontoday.com

South Boston Catholic Academy News

Congratulations SBCA Sixth Grade Class of 2021!

F

rom Ms. Sarah Hoisl, the Sixth Grade Teacher…It was my pleasure to be able to speak on behalf of the Sixth Grade this year. It has been an absolute pleasure to work with the kids during the academic year of 2020-2021. As I said at graduation, this class has been through many unprecedented times and encountered many unpredictable moments. Throughout all of it they

have never ever let anything get in the way of their success. Congratulations to my favorite class of 2021. To my first ever class. To a class I will never forget. I truly cannot believe that I am standing here today on the last day of school. The first thing that I want to do is thank your parents and support systems at home. None of this would have been possible without their constant love and

support. They helped you through the hardest days throughout the past 7 years. Please take the time today to give them a hug and truly think about the amazing things they have provided you with…

These students are going to some amazing schools around the Boston area, some of them including BLS, BLA, Newman School, Brimmer and May, BC High, Cathedral High, St. John’s, Collegiate and many more. They are all going to do amazing things because they have created such a strong foundation of Catholic faith, love for others and a work ethic like no other at South Boston Catholic Academy. It was my honor to work with this class

June 24, 2021

and I cannot wait to see what lies ahead of them. They are special and will never be forgotten by SBCA. Love the love in the world for that class. SBCA strong.

Congratulations South Boston Catholic Academy Class of 2021!

Thank you and God Bless you, Ms. Hoisl, for a most wonderful school year Making Grade 6 Memoires, in Masks! God Bless and Best Wishes from all of us at SBCA to all our wonderful Sixth Graders and their families as they start a new chapter in their lives. New families are welcome to email Mrs. Jamie Brown at j.brown@sbcatholicacademy.org to learn more about South Boston Catholic Academy.

11

SOUTHBOSTONTODAY • www.southbostontoday.com

June 24, 2021

FROG POND SPRAY POOL REOPENS JUNE 24

M

ayor Kim Janey, Boston Parks Commissioner Ryan Woods, and The Skating Club of Boston are pleased to welcome children and guests to kick off the 2021 summer season as the Boston Common Frog Pond spray pool reopens on Thursday, June 24. The day will include a fun and exciting celebration at 11 a.m. followed by the opening of the spray pool.

In addition to activities from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. residents can enjoy tasty Hood Ice Cream Sandwiches provided by in-kind sponsor HP Hood LLC and a Mobile Dairy Bar provided by the New England Dairy Council. Limited giveaways while supplies last. Media support provided by Magic 106.7 and Mix 104.1. Lead sponsor is Highland Partners Charitable Fund.

The celebration will feature a special visit from the official mascot Frog Pond Freddie.

Come visit LEGOLAND® Discovery Center Boston’s table to meet their Master Model Builder and build fun LEGO® creations.

Plus, take your photo with a life size football, basketball, hockey and baseball Championship trophies… all made of LEGO! New England Dairy, a non-profit education organization that serves as the voice of local dairy farmers, will be on site to celebrate all things dairy – farming, food, nutrition, and wellness.

Families will also be able to enjoy a ride on the Boston Common Carousel. The Carousel is handicapped accessible and has height requirements: anyone 42” or taller can ride alone; anyone under 42” requires the presence of an adult. Admission for the ride is $3 with 10-ride cards available for $25. Hours of operation are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. seven days a week.

A year-round recreational facility, the Frog Pond offers ice skating in the winter, a spray pool and supervised wading for youth in the summer, and the Carousel from spring through fall. Information on additional activities offered at the Frog Pond can be found by visiting www.bostonfrogpond. com<http://www.bostonfrogpond.com>.

The Frog Pond spray pool is open daily from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. until Labor Day. The facility is managed by The Skating Club of Boston and staffed by youth workers from the Boston Youth Fund. For further information, please call the Frog Pond at (617) 635-2120.

Park for a Father’s Southie Sr. Babe Takes Two To Start the Season atDayWatson afternoon match against

A

fter a handful of cancellations and rainouts, the South Boston Sr. Babe Ruth team was finally able to open up the 2021 season on the road at Monroe Park in Quincy.

Wollaston jumped out to a quick 2-0 lead in the bottom first inning on Southie starter Bobby Delaney. Delaney would settle in after that and went on to strike out 8 while scattering 4 hits over 6 innings of work.

The Wollaston lead stood until the top of the 4th inning when Logan Crowley ripped a single to left field scoring Brian Miller who reached base after drawing a walk. Kevin Culley was next up and hit into a fielders choice that would score Crowley to tie the game up 2-2.

In the top of the fifth inning, Michael Brooks’ sacrifice fly made it a 3-2 ballgame and Jack Feeney later came around to score what would prove to be the game winning run on an error by the Wollaston pitcher.

Wollaston brought the pressure on in the final inning as Delaney, now well over 100 pitches,

walked the first 3 batters with one scoring on a wild pitch to cut the Southie lead to 4-3. With the game winning run on second

base, Delaney proceeded to strike out the side giving Southie an opening night win in a nail-biter.

The boys were back on the road

Braintree that gave the Southie dads plenty to cheer about.

Lefty James Buzzell took the mound for his first start of the season and kept the Braintree hitters at bay scattering 4 hits and adding 5 K’s over 5 innings of work. Buzzy got all the run support he needed as the Southie bats wore down the Braintree starter to the tune of 13 hits and 13 runs in 5 innings. A 13-4 final score was the result in this one.

Kevin Culley (3 Hits/3 RBIs) and Logan Crowley (3 Hits/2 RBIs) again paced the offense for South Boston. Michael Brooks, Buzzell, Bobby Delaney, Jack Feeney (3RBIs) and rookies Declan Callahan and Owen Lahey all added hits in the big win.

The team has several upcoming home games including Sunday June 27th vs South End Astro’s 5pm, Monday June 28th vs Wollaston #2 6pm, and Thursday July 1st for a rematch of last season’s championship round against Norwood at 6pm. Grab you favorite beach chair and come on down to King Field at Moakley Park to catch some great baseball.

12

SOUTHBOSTONTODAY • www.southbostontoday.com

June 24, 2021

sdfg sdfgsdfg sdfgdsfgsdfgdsd

This week,

Danny reacted to the NFL’s COVID-19 vaccine policy for the 2021 season:

I

hope you’re ready for some serious drama in the National Football League this year. Because it’s coming, and it’s coming fast.

Last season, the NFL did a decent job of keeping COVID-19 infections under control. They were able to get through the season and playoffs and Super Bowl without any major issues. But now, as the league prepares to begin training camp for the 2021 season, there’s a new issue on the horizon: Vaccines.

The NFL and NFLPA have agreed to a COVID-19 vaccine policy, which is — in my own personal opinion — absolutely absurd.

The new vaccine rules for the upcoming season will prevent unvaccinated players from even being part of the team outside of on-field practice and games.

If you’re an unvaccinated NFL player, you won’t be able to interact with your vaccinated teammates either inside or outside your team’s facility. You won’t be able to workout together, or eat together, or do anything together.

And not only that, but if you’re an unvaccinated NFL player, you can’t even be seen at a restaurant or bar or concert or any other gathering away from the facility. If you’re

caught doing so, as an unvaccinated player, you will be hit with a hefty fine, beginning at $50,000 for the first offense.

Basically, if you don’t get the COVID-19 vaccine, NFL commissioner Roger Goodell becomes your overlord. It’s Goodell’s way of saying, “The COVID-19 vaccine is mandatory” without making it “mandatory.”

I do find it hard to believe that the Players’ Association signed off on this madness. And look, I’m not sitting here pounding my chest as an anti-vaxxer by any means. I just don’t think anyone should be forced into taking a vaccine, for anything, even for COVID-19. And what the NFL is doing is punishing unvaccinated players into submission.

Now, that’s the NFL’s intention.

But if you think for one second that that will actually happen, then you clearly haven’t been paying attention to those who argue against the COVID-19 vaccine. And there are plenty of people who do. Half the country, in fact.

Professional athletes are passionate about their rights. They’re also the people who pay more attention to what’s going into their bodies

than anyone else on the planet. So to think there won’t be a decent amount of players who will question an experimental vaccine is very naive.

At least one player is speaking out against the NFL’s new COVID-19 vaccine policy. That player is Buffalo Bills wide receiver Cole Beasley, who posted a long rant on social media, saying he refuses to get the COVID vaccine: “Hi, I’m Cole Beasley and I’m not vaccinated! I will be outside doing what I do. I’ll be out in the public. If your scared of me then steer clear, or get vaccinated.

Point. Blank. Period. I may die of covid, but I’d rather die actually living. I have family members whose days are numbered. If they want to come see me and stay at my house then they are coming regardless of protocol. I don’t play for the money anymore. My family has been taken care of. Fine me if you want. My way of living and my values are more important to me than a dollar. I love my teammates and enjoy playing ball because all the outside bs goes out the window in these moments. I just want to win the Super Bowl and enjoy these relationships that

will be created along the way.

“I’m not going to take meds for a leg that isn’t broken. I’d rather take my chances with Covid and build up my immunity that way.

Eat better. Drink water. Exercise and do what I think is necessary to be a healthy individual. That is MY CHOICE based on MY experiences and what I think is best. I’ll play for free this year to live life how I’ve lived it from day one. If I’m forced into retirement, so be it. I’ve enjoyed the times I’ve had. I’ll get to live freely with my wife, kids, and extended family forever. We’d get to enjoy the times that we missed from the sacrifices we’ve had to make just so I could play this wonderful game. So either way, it’s a win/win.

“That’s where I stand. Thank you for everyone who has been supportive throughout this process. A lot of other NFL players hold my position as well but aren’t in the right place in their careers to be so outspoken. I feel for you and I’m hoping I’m doing my part to represent you guys well.”

I can assure you he isn’t alone.

Follow Danny on Twitter and Instagram @DannyPicard.

“Don’t lose that parking spot!” Take a walk down before or af ter the beach and enjoy the famous Shamrock steak tips. Great food and something for everyone. Don’t forget Fish Frydays.

Open - Thursday - Sunday 10am to 12 Midnight - Friday & Saturday 10am to 1:00am

Closed July 3rd 4th - Happy Birthday USA!

The Shamr ck PUB & GRILL www.shamrockpubboston.com

The Shamrock Pub & Grill - 501 East Eighth Street - South Boston - 617-268-0007

SPORTS TODAY CELTICS ACQUIRE HORFORD, TRADE KEMBA TO OKC

B

13

SOUTHBOSTONTODAY • www.southbostontoday.com

June 24, 2021

SBT Staff

rad Stevens has made his first major move as the Celtics’ new president of basketball operations. Over the weekend, he pulled off a trade with the Thunder, sending point guard Kemba Walker to Oklahoma City in exchange for veteran center Al Horford.

The C’s will also send this year’s 16th overall draft pick and a 2025 second-round pick to the Thunder, while also receiving 21-year-old center Moses Brown and a 2023 second-round pick from Oklahoma City.

Horford, 35, makes his return to Boston after spending the last two seasons with the Thunder and Philadelphia 76ers. In the summer of 2016, Horford signed a four-year max contract with the Celtics, worth $113 million, which included an opt-out after

WHATTOWATCH

Tweet of the Week

NBA THURSDAY, JUNE 24 Western Conference Finals Gm 3: (2) Phoenix at (4) LA Clippers 9 P.M. ESPN FRIDAY, JUNE 25 Eastern Conference Finals Gm 2: (5) Atlanta at (3) Milwaukee 8:30 P.M. TNT NHL THURSDAY, JUNE 24 Stanley Cup Semifinals Gm 6: Vegas at Montreal 8 P.M. USA MLB FRIDAY, JUNE 25 NY Yankees at Boston 7 P.M. NESN SATURDAY, JUNE 26 NY Yankees at Boston 7:15 P.M. FOX SUNDAY, JUNE 27 NY Yankees at Boston 1:10 P.M. NESN

the third year. The veteran center utilized that opt-out and left Boston as a free agent in the summer of 2019, signing a four-year, $109 million deal with the 76ers.

Reports suggested that the Celtics were trying to re-sign Horford that summer, but they were not willing to offer as much guaranteed money as the 76ers were. Horford’s stay in Philadelphia lasted just one season, as the 76ers traded him to the Thunder last offseason, in exchange for sharpshooter Danny Green.

Now, Horford is back with the Celtics as a much needed vet-

eran presence.

In talking to the media after the trade, Stevens said, “Al played a critical role both on and off the court during his time in Boston, and we’re excited to welcome he and his family back to the Celtics. His ability to elevate teammates with his experience and leadership make for a great addition.”

You have to give up something to get something. And Walker was the one to go, after just two seasons in Boston.

Walker, 31, signed with the Celtics in the summer of 2019, shortly after Horford made his

decision to leave for Philadelphia. The deal was a four-year, $141 million deal, and was part of a sign-and-trade with the Hornets that also sent point guard Terry Rozier to Charlotte.

Walker’s time in Boston was injury-plagued, and he finished this year’s playoffs on the sideline with a knee injury.

After the trade, Stevens told the media, “Kemba is a true professional and a great teammate and player. I want to thank him for his tremendous impact, and the positive contribution he’s made both to the Celtics and the City of Boston.”

NFL PLACES HEAVY RESTRICTIONS ON UNVACCINATED PLAYERS

T

SBT Staff

he NFL and NFL Players Association have come to an agreement on COVID-19 vaccination policies for the 2021 season, including training camp.

And let’s just say, the league is going to make it very difficult for any player or coach who doesn’t choose to get the COVID vaccine.

For those who do not get vaccinated, here are some of the harsh protocols that will be waiting for them when training camp begins: “COVID testing

will be required everyday, masks will be required at club facility and during travel, must remain physically distant from others in club facility, must quarantine after high risk exposure to COVID, travel restrictions in effect, 15 player limit in weight room, physically distanced in meal room and may not eat with teammates, no social/ media/marketing/sponsorship activities permitted, may not use sauna or steam room, may not leave team hotel to eat in restaurants, may not interact with anyone outside of Team Traveling

Party during team travel.”

Also, unvaccinated players will be banned from nightclubs, bars, house parties, concerts, and other gatherings. Unvaccinated players caught breaking these protocols may be fined up to $50,000 for a first offense, and more for further offenses.

Meanwhile, for those who do get the vaccine, it will be pretty much business as usual, with no masks required, no physical distancing, and no travel restrictions.

The NFL is clearly putting pres-

sure on its players to get the COVID vaccine. For those who still choose not to, it could interrupt the day-today operations of any NFL team.

And it doesn’t stop at players and coaches. Even the media is being pressured to get the shot. Vaccinated media members will be permitted to conduct in-person interviews with players for the first time since 2020, while unvaccinated media members will not be allowed in the press box, on the field, on the sidelines, or in the locker room.