South Boston Today September 9 2021

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September 9, 2021: Vol.9 Issue 35

SERVING SOUTH BOSTONIANS AROUND THE GLOBE

Remembering 9-11

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20 Years Later

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hose who were alive 20 years ago and old enough to remember the attack on the World Trade Center in NYC, The Pentagon in DC and an airliner loaded with civilians in the air over Pennsylvania on September 11th, 2001, can probably recall exactly where they were when the news hit. America was under attack from a foreign enemy and this news brought up emotions in rapid succession. There was at first shock, then fear, then anger and rage the likes of which hadn’t been experienced by

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September 9, 2021

EDITORIAL Keeping a Sacred Promise For 40 years 40th Re-dedication Of the Vietnam Memorial This Sunday

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f there is another community in America or for that matter, any place else in the world that has a group of people as loyal to one another and as determined to honor fallen comrades than South Boston, we have never heard of it. But if there is, we would salute them as well.

South Boston’s Vietnam veterans; a true ‘band of brothers’, made a promise more than 4 decades ago that they would never

forget and would forever honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice and never returned home from that war.

Lead by former US Marine Tom Lyons, this dedicated and impressively focused group of our neighborhood’s Vietnam vets, set to work on building a beautiful memorial to their 25 brothers in arms who were killed in action during that conflict. It was completed ,

then dedicated in September of 1981 and proudly stands today at Medal of Honor Park at M Street as a symbol of the love and loyalty that epitomizes the closeness and appreciation of a grateful community; especially South Boston’s many veterans.

That the crowds have returned every September for 40 years to honor and remember these brave men who gave all in defense of the nation they loved

so much speaks volumes about the pride that exist among the residents; current and former from our truly unique neighborhood.

Promises mean something to South Bostonians.

They are not made lightly and when they are made, those who make them intend to keep them. What better example of that than this annual rededication of the South Boston Vietnam Memorial that has been taking place for this, it’s

40th year. The Vietnam veterans who made a vow to never forget their brothers have made good on that promise and will be there this coming Sunday.

South Boston’s veterans from other wars will be there as well. The family members of the fallen will be in attendance and it is hoped that once again, this neighborhood will turn out in large numbers to show their support for the memory of those fallen and for the very special group of friends who said they would never forget, never have and never will. God Bless Them.

“The true legacy of the 9-11 events cannot be found in the political leaders of the day, but in the citizen soldiers and the public safety personnel who answered that day with courage and selflessness” - Vice President Mike Pence

All South Boston elected officials enthusiastically endorse Boston City Councilor At-Large Michael Flaherty for re-election.

Pictured above (from left to right): State Representative David Biele, District 2 City Councilor Ed Flynn, City Councilor At-Large Michael Flaherty, State Senator Nick Collins walking past Flaherty’s re-election headquarters at 668 East Broadway in South Boston. (not pictured: Congressman Stephen Lynch).

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September 9, 2021

Information Center The

The Leadership In Some Cities Is Like A Looney Tunes Cartoon SOUTH BOSTON TODAY John Ciccone

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was approached by a friend the other day who wanted to know what I was going to make fun of about liberals/progressives in this week’s column. He says he actually looks forward to it and since the lefties never seem to disappoint as far as providing things to ridicule, and since I don’t like disappointing friends, the once great city of San Francisco will be among the topics to mention this week.

Notice it was labeled as ‘Once great’ and it was – a long LONG time ago. That’s before the libs took over and elected Pelosi and other bizarre characters to make the rules. The elected ‘leadership’s latest ruling that boggles the mind is their stated policy of paying criminals $300 per week not to shoot anyone. Yup, you read that right. San Francisco has decided that it will end violent crime and convince the thugs and gangs to be nice if they give them money to stop shooting each other. Now, when normal or sane people hear this, they are dumfounded. They at first think it’s a joke. But when they realize that San Francisco’s liberal leaders are actually serious about this, they just can’t understand how anyone with a brain would believe this would work because it makes no sense. But to people who probably spend much of their time howling at the moon, it probably seems perfectly normal.

Some say that the sane people in San Francisco should rise up and vote the liberals out next election. But I’m guessing that most of the normal people; the ones who don’t believe in unicorns and puffy dragons have long ago moved out of that city, leaving far too few sane residents left to vote for sanity in their city government. But there are a few left. And said one of the normal people who still remains but will be moving to the great state

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

of Texas soon: “When my family and I make it official and flee this crazy place, where people are allowed to openly use the streets as a bathroom and can walk into a clothing store and brazenly walk out with an arm load of jackets without being arrested and police are pretty much prevented from doing their jobs, the sound that will remind me most of San Francisco will be the sound a kuku clock makes every hour on the hour”.

Moving on, in last week’s issue of South Boston Today, the editorial warned of the indoctrination taking place in so many school districts around the country. A growing number of teachers, backed by their unions have been exposed bombarding their young students with political rhetoric.

Stealthily in many cases, but openly in others, students; even in the elementary grades are being subjected to leftist propaganda that is meant to turn these kids against police, against their country and even in some instances, against their parents. Thankfully, parents everywhere are organizing and forcefully going after those doing this; especially the school board members who are either encouraging the indoctrination or ignoring it and allowing it to go on. The latest situation to make national news had a male California teacher, an avowed ANTIFA supporter caught on video bragging how he is turning his students into radicals. He is quoted, on video as proudly saying the following:”give me the school year – just 180 days with these kids and I’ll turn them into revolutionaries”. He also boasted that he would give extra credit to students if they participated in demonstrations as part of ANTIFA. A tour of this teacher’s class room revealed his ANTIFA Flag hanging on the wall across from a large photo of the Communist murderer Mao Tse Tung. When the video made the

news, the parents went ballistic and swarmed the school board meeting.

They demanded the teacher be fired and he will be, but also that members of the school board who allowed this teacher to remain working at the school until the video went public also be removed. Parents in the crowd during the heated and raucous meeting also stated that there were other teachers at the school who were also radicals and were also forcing their political agendas on to their students.

This type of thing is happening in other school districts as well. It’s why parents of school age children would

be wise to join the movement growing all across America by other parents to put a stop to what’s happening. If you want to put an end to this leftist indoctrination in America’s schools and protect your children and all children from being exposed to this, become active. Pay close attention to what your kids are being taught. Its your right to know and to have a say about what goes on in the class rooms. The only sure way to stop this in it’s tracks is for the parents themselves to rise up and put an end to it now. The parents have the right to do this and the power to pull it off.

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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.

The leader and the pack: With week to go, Globe poll shows Wu well ahead of tight pack File under: Further confirmation.

A Boston Globe/Suffolk University poll of the Boston mayoral race shows City Councilor Michelle Wu poised to advance to the November final election, Meghan Irons of the Globe reports. Wu was the top choice of 31 percent of voters polled, with the second-place scrum featuring Acting Mayor Kim Janey at 20 percent, Councilor Annissa Essaibi George at 19 percent and Councilor Andrea Campbell at 18 percent. The results mirror earlier polls showing a tight race for the second slot on the November ballot.

Masks required in all Worcester schools Starting today, masks are now required in all Worcester schools -- public, private, parochial, and charter -- and employers and businesses inside the city’s limits will need to report all positive COVID cases among employees and patrons to the city’s Division of Public Health, reports Telegram & Gazette’s Rick Eggleston. Worcester Medical Director Dr. Michael Hirsh

issued two emergency orders Friday setting the new requirements. More from Eggleston: “Previously, all employers in the state were required to report COVID-19 cases under Gov. Charlie Baker’s Emergency Declaration. However, since being lifted in June, the regulation is no longer required, except now in Worcester, which is making it mandatory again for the purpose of contact tracing and quarantine requirements.”

Vote by mail could ‘reshape’ local elections Election advocates are hopeful new voting by mail options will help increase turnout in a slate of local elections that typically draw low numbers, reports WBUR’s Simón Rios. Under the old rules, Massachusetts residents could only vote by mail if they were out of town or had a good excuse. After the pandemic forced much of life to be conducted from home, Beacon Hill lawmakers moved to temporarily allow anyone to take advantage of the option.

More from Rios: “Indeed, some believe the new vote-by-mail rules could even reshape local politics in cities like Lynn, where most of the city councilors are white, but most

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of the residents are not.”

Janey: Housing issues are ‘deeply personal’ Boston Acting Mayor Kim Janey said housing issues are “deeply personal” to her as she recalled growing up in subsidized housing and living in a homeless shelter. Boston Herald’s Erin Tiernan reports that Janey made those comments as she was defending her administration’s decision to implement a citywide moratorium on evictions.

Total recall: Warren stumps with Newsom ahead of California vote She was there to rile up the base.

U.S. Sen. Elizabeth Warren joined a parade of national political figures wading into the California gubernatorial recall election, with the Los Angeles Times’ Phil Willon and Julia Wick reporting Warren warned voters from the stump that allowing the Golden State to be put into the hands of a Republican could endanger women’s rights, science-based COVID responses, and the earth’s climate.

State brought in $2.49B in tax collections last month The state hauled in $2.49 billion in tax collections last month, 26.9 percent more than August 2020 but only 0.4 percent more than predictions for the month, reports the Associated Press’ Boston Bureau. More from the AP: “Year-to-date collections for the 2022 fiscal year totaled approximately $4.745 billion, which is $639 million or 15.6 percent more than collections in the same period during the 2021 fiscal year, and $10 million or 0.2 percent more than year-to-date predictions.”

All five Boston mayoral candidates united at Labor Day rally They all came together for Labor Day. The five Boston mayoral candidates attended a rally to celebrate workers and continued on page 8

September 9, 2021

Ward 6 and 7 Committees Make Endorsements

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he Ward 6 and Ward 7 Democratic Committees recently endorsed candidates vying for Mayor and City Council.

Councilor At Large Michael Flaherty and District Councilor Ed Flynn were endorsed for re-election while candidate and Ward 7 resident Bridget Nee-Walsh was endorsed for the At Large race. In the race for Mayor, Councilor At Large Annissa Essiabi George, also a Ward 7 resident, was endorsed in her bid for Mayor.

Colleen Chin, a member of the Ward 7 Committee, who nominated the candidates, said “I was pleased to nominate our Ward 7 neighbors, Councilors Michael Flaherty and Ed Flynn, for reelection to the city council, candidate Bridget Nee-Walsh, for an at-large city seat, and Councilor Annissa Essiabi George for Mayor. All Ward 7 residents, the committee agreed that the slate of candidates we endorsed share our priorities and values as a community and it’s important for those who live in and know our community best serve us in public office.”

Kelley O’Shea, a member of the Ward 6 Committee, nominated the candidates for endorsement by Ward 6.

All candidates are on the municipal ballot for preliminary election next Tuesday, September 14th. If elected in the preliminary they will move on to the final municipal election in November.

SOUTHBOSTONTODAY • www.southbostontoday.com

September 9, 2021

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Sen. Collins, Rep. Biele Secure Over $1 Million State Budget for South Boston

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Funding to support public safety, public health, mental health/substance addiction treatment, senior and youth programs, small businesses, and open space enator Nick Collins and Representative David Biele joined their colleagues in the Massachusetts State Legislature in passing the state budget for the fiscal year 2022.

Funded at $47.6 billion, this year’s budget supports the Commonwealth’s communities, schools, families, small businesses, and workers as Massachusetts emerges from the COVID-19 pandemic, Sen. Collins and Rep. Biele secured over $1 million to support the South Boston community.

Public health was a top priority this budget cycle and include funding for the South Boston Community Health Center, a crucial community resource that provides local, quality health care. Treatment and recovery were also public health priorities, as Sen. Collins and Rep. Biele secured funding for the Gavin Foundation and the South Boston Joseph Nee Collaborative Center to provide substance addiction treatment and recovery programming.

With public safety another key priority, Sen. Collins and Rep. Biele secured funding for: • state police patrols along Day Boulevard, M Street Beach, Carson Beach, and Castle Island; • patrols at MBTA stations, including Broadway Station, Andrew Station, and JFK Station; • funding to support the Boston Police Department in Area C-6.

The budget also includes funding secured by Sen. Collins and Rep. Biele for investments in the Boston Fire Department Training Academies and hazardous materials response teams along with Boston Sparks Canteen Program to serve and assist first responders during emergency situations.

Sen. Collins stated, “This year’s budget process was vitally important, and my office along with Rep. Biele’s were able to secure critical investments to the community, prioritizing economic recovery,

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local non-profits and small business support, education, healthcare, environmental justice, and public health & safety.” “I was pleased to work together with my colleagues and successfully finalize this budget, and I look forward to continuing to work together to recover and rebuild our neighborhoods, our city, and the Commonwealth.”

“Nothing in the budget is ever guaranteed, especially in these unprecedented times,” said Rep. Biele.

“I am proud to work with Sen. Collins in advocating for our neighborhood during this year’s state budget process and I am thankful to my colleagues in the House for supporting crucial investments in programs that support our community.”

Understanding the need to support youth and seniors, Sen. Collins and Rep. Biele also secured funding to support the South Boston Neighborhood House and the Harry McDonough Sailing Program. The

budget also includes investments in workforce development, family support programs, and education programs at the Tierney Learning Center and Julie’s Family Learning Center.

Regrding the local economy, the state budget includes funding for the South Boston Neighborhood Development Corporation to support local small businesses, as well as funding to address food insecurity.

The state budget also supports open space in South Boston with key investments including a trust to support both Castle Island and Marine Park.

In addition to supporting local programs, the state budget allocates over $223 million in Chapter 70 education funding for the City of Boston, with an additional $208 million in Unrestricted General Government Aid (UGGA) for the City of Boston.

These investments represent increases in both Chapter 70 and UGGA funding from the last fiscal year.

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SOUTHBOSTONTODAY • www.southbostontoday.com

City Councilor At-Large Michael Flaherty Announces Additional Endorsements in His Bid for Re-Election Councilor Flaherty is now endorsed by more than 50 elected officials and labor unions, including Congressman Lynch, Sheriff Thompkins, Teamsters Local 25, the Boston Teachers Union, and the Greater Boston Building Trades

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oston City Councilor At-Large Michael Flaherty announced 48 additional endorsements in support of his re-election, bringing the total to 56. The endorsements came from elected officials at the federal, state, and local levels and a broad coalition of labor unions active in the Greater Boston area.

“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 full list of endorsements is as follows: Congressman Stephen Lynch, Suf-

folk County Sheriff Steve Thompkins, Clerk Magistrate of Suffolk Superior Court Maura Hennigan, Suffolk County Register of Deeds Steve Murphy, Former Boston Police Commissioner Willy Gross, Suffolk Superior Court Clerk Mike Donovan, Suffolk Supreme Judicial Court Clerk Maura Doyle, State Senator Nick Collins, State Senator Mike Rush, State Senator Sal DiDomenico, State Rep. Ed Coppinger, State Rep. Dan Ryan, State Rep. David Biele, State Rep. Kevin Honan, State Rep. Dan Hunt, State Rep. Jay Livingstone, Councilor Lydia Edwards, Councilor Ed Flynn, Councilor Frank Baker, Councilor Matt O’Malley, Councilor Liz Breadon, Councilor Kenzie Bok, Teamsters Local Union #25, Boston Carmen’s Union #589, Boston Firefighters Local

718, Unite Here Local #26, SEIU Local 888, Boston Teachers Union, SEIU NAGE, North Atlantic States Regional Council of Carpenters, United Food and Commercial Workers Local 1445, IBEW 2222, Boston Police Superior Officers Federation, AFSCME 93, Professional Firefighters of Massachusetts, Boston Police Patrolmen’s Association, Boston Police Patrolman’s AssociationEmergency Medical Services, The International Brotherhood of Boilermakers, Iron Ship Builders, Blacksmiths, Forgers and Helpers Local 29, International Union of Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers Local 3, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 103, International Union of Elevator Contractors Local 4, International Association of Heat and Frost Insulators and Allied

September 9, 2021

Workers Local 6, International Association of Bridge, Structural, Ornamental and Reinforcing Iron Workers Local 7, Laborers’ International Union of North America Local 22, Laborers’ International Union of North America Local 88 (Tunnel Workers), Laborers’ International Union of North America Local 151, Laborers’ International Union of North America Local 223, Laborers’ International Union of North America Local 1421 (Wreckers), International Union of Operating Engineers Local 4, International Union of Painters and Allied Trades District Council 35, United Association of Journeymen and Apprentices of the Plumbing and Pipe Fitting Industry of the United States, Canada (UA) Pipefitters Local 537, Operative Plasterers’ & Cement Masons’ International Association Local 534, United Association of Journeymen and Apprentices of the Plumbing and Pipe Fitting Industry of the United States, Canada (UA) Plumbers & Gasfitters Local 12, United Union of Roofers, Waterproofers and Allied Workers Local 33, Sheet Metal Workers’ International Association Local 17, and United Association of Journeymen and Apprentices of the Plumbing and PipeFitting Industry of the United States, Canada (UA) Sprinkler Fitters Local 550.

The endorsement process is ongoing and future announcements of additional support can be expected in the coming weeks.

40th Anniversary of South Boston Vietnam Memorial

-Celebrated On Sunday, September 12, at Medal of Honor Park-

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edal of Honor Recipients will be in Boston for their annual convention and some of those in attendance will be featured speakers. In addition, South Boston will celebrate the 40th Anniversary of the South Boston Vietnam Memorial, located in Medal of Honor Park at East Broadway and M Street, on Sunday, Sept. 12, 2021. A Memorial Mass will be held in St. Brigid Church, 841 East Broadway, South Boston, at 10:30 a.m., followed by an 11:30 a.m. rededication ceremony at the memorial. Also attending will be the families of the 25 men from South Boston who were killed in action during the Vietnam War. {Attendees are asked to please wear a mask.}

The South Boston Vietnam Memorial was among America’s first formal memorials for Vietnam Veterans – predating the dedication of the national Vietnam Veterans Memorial

in Washington, D.C. by 13 months.

It honors 25 men from South Boston who gave their lives during the war.

South Boston suffered one of the highest losses of men killed in action in the

country for a community of its size.

The South Boston Vietnam Memorial was dedicated on Sept. 13, 1981, and a rededication ceremony is held every September.

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SOUTHBOSTONTODAY • www.southbostontoday.com

September 9, 2021

South Boston Today Readers PLEASE VOTE FOR YOUR NEIGHBOR

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Erin Murphy Boston City At-Large Erin Murphy forfor Boston CityCouncil Council At-Larg

Erin Murphy Murphy for for Boston Erin Boston City City Council CouncilAt-Large At-Large My vision for Building a Better Boston addresses the challenges facing working families across our city. I am focused on the quality of life issues and budget issues that touch every resident, every day.

Seniors Property Taxes Schools

Development Housing Affordability Mental Health

Substance Abuse Small Businesses Public Safety

I spent more than 23 years as a classroom teacher and a special education coordinator, and I am proud to have over 30 endorsements from diverse groups.

•Boston Firefighters •Boston Police •Massachusetts Nurses Association •Boston EMS •IBEW Local 103 •Laborers Local 223 •Massachusetts Women's Political Caucus •SEIU Local 888 •State Rep. Dan Hunt •State Rep. Dan Ryan •State Rep. Ed Coppinger •City Councilor Frank Baker •Register of Deeds Stephen Murphy •Former City Councilor Sal LaMattina

I spent more than 23 years as a classroom teacher and a special education I spent more than 23 years as a classroom teacher and a special education VOTE for on September 14th! coordinator, and I am proud toyears have over 30endorsements endorsements from diverse group I Please spent more a#14 classroom teacher and a special education coordinator, andthan I am23 proud toas have over 30 from diverse groups. coordinator, and I am proud to have over 30 endorsements from diverse groups.

•Boston Firefighters •BostonBACK. Police •Massachusetts Nurses Association •Boston EMS •IBEW BRINGING BOSTON TOGETHER. ErinforBoston.com •Boston Firefighters •Boston Police •Massachusetts Nurses Association •Boston EMS •IB •Boston Firefighters •Boston Police •Massachusetts Nurses Association •Boston EMS Local 103 •Laborers Local 223 •Massachusetts Women's Political Caucus •SEIU Local 888•IBEW •State Local 103 •Laborers Local 223Dan •Massachusetts Women's Political Caucus •SEIU Local 888 •State Rep. Dan Hunt •State Rep. Ryan •State Women's Rep. Ed Coppinger •City Councilor Frank Baker Local 103 •Laborers Local 223 •Massachusetts Political Caucus •SEIU Local 888 25+ Endorsements/ SEIU888/SEIU NAGE/Boston Fire/Boston Police/ILA/ of Deeds Stephen Councilor SalCouncilor LaMattinaFrank Baker Rep. Dan•Register Hunt •State Rep. Dan RyanMurphy •State •Former Rep. Ed City Coppinger •City IBEW222/Local 7. For more information see Bridgetforboston.com Rep. Dan Hunt •State Rep. Dan Ryan •State Rep. Ed Coppinger •City Councilor Frank Ba •Register of Deeds Stephen Murphy •Former City Councilor Sal LaMattina •Register of Deeds Stephen Murphy City Councilor Sal LaMattina Please VOTE for #14•Former on September 14th!

I am in this race to make a difference, to fight the real fight for our residents

and to build a better Boston for all to call home. I am thankful to have the support and endorsements of my union brothers and sisters AND the opportunity to earn your vote on September 14th. #3 on the Ballot (paid for by CTE Briget Nee-Walsh)

Please VOTE for #14 on September 14th!

BRINGING BOSTON BACK. TOGETHER. BRINGING BOSTON BACK. TOGETHER.

ErinforBoston.com ErinforBoston.com

Please VOTE for #14 on September 14th!

BRINGING BOSTON BACK. TOGETHER.

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SOUTHBOSTONTODAY • www.southbostontoday.com

The

Wine Guy

Around The World With 4 Choices; Or Sip Them All…

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f you cannot travel and some countries won’t let Americans do so under the nightmare that has been Covid, start your journey and finish the trip back to the US with a Napa Chardonnay.

We haven’t touched on Australia lately and here’s one I found that’s over 90 points and under $25.00. The 2019 Penley Cabernet Sauvignon, Coonawarra Phoenix, ($19.99) has terrific concentration, with generous notes of black licorice, allspice and dark chocolate that mingle with plumb, herbs and cassis. Also, it’s hard not to notice the long, expressive finish with velvety tannins. Have this one with any red meat, especially on the grill.

From South Africa, the 2020 Southern Right Sauvignon Blanc, Walker Bay, ($17.99), is a stony white wine, sleek and structured, with hints of tarragon and grapefruit zest, accenting flavors of melon, fig and peaches. It’s perfect for those hot, humid days and it will go well with any salad or seafood dishes you might have in mind. I should also note that South African wines in general, but especially their Sauv

Blancs, offer tremendous value across the board.

Finally, another county we don’t do more with, (but will in the future), is Spain and one of the most popular wines there is Albarino.

The 2019 Paco & Lola Albarino, Rias Baixas, ($20.99), is one of many wines made by the Coopera-

September 9, 2021

tiva Vitivinicola Arousana, with over 200 years of making delicious and affordable red and white wines.

This one is notable for its lime, floral and kumquat flavors, mixed with spice, ginger and sea salt accents, that really give it a mouthwatering finish, with nice complexity.

Any white meat or seafood dish, especially on the grill, will be more enjoyable with a glass or two of this little beauty.

From Napa, the Artesa Chardonnay, 2018, Los Caneros, ($22.99), offers a nicely structured wine with notes of dried sage, green apple and Asian pears, backed by a strong acidity. The minerally finish is strongly spiced with hints of butter. This Chard is well-suited for Chicken dishes, as well as tangy seafood items, like Asianstyle Shrimp and you can drink it now or keep it until 2025.

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Wreaths Across America Commemorating 9/11/01 – 20 Years Hence

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hile we have Veterans Day in the fall and Memorial Day in the spring, our servicemen and women sacrifice their time and safety every single day of the year, to preserve our freedoms. And in many homes across the U.S., every day there is an empty seat for one who is serving, or one who made the ultimate

Window continued from page 4

push for their protections, reports Boston Globe’s Diti Kohli. The event was held outside the Marriott Copley Place and the Prudential Center and drew hundreds from local unions and cultural

sacrifice for our country. That is why our mission to Remember, Honor and Teach lasts all year long, far beyond the single day in December when we coordinate wreath-laying ceremonies. All throughout the year, Wreaths Across America works in a number of ways to show our veterans and their families that we will not forget—we will never forget.

When you have a moment, go to this link (https://www.wreathsacrossamerica.org) to see the many ways we Remember and Honor our veterans, and Teach the next generation to do the same.

It’s been 20 Years Since that Tuesday in 2001 when, In Remembrance, People from Across the Nation Joined National Flag Waving Effort.

The flag-waving event began at 8:45 am ET and ran through 10:05

am ET. In addition to the National Anthem, Pledge of Allegiance and sharing of stories, the event included four (4) moments of silence, as listed below.

At 8:46 am, on Tuesday, Sept. 11, 2001, five hijackers took control of American Airlines Flight 11 and flew it into the heart of New York City and the northern facade of the World Trade Center’s North Tower (1 WTC).

At 9:03 am, five other hijackers flew United Airlines Flight 175 into the southern facade of the South Tower (2 WTC).

At 9:37 am, another five hijackers flew American Airlines flight 77 into the western facade of the Pentagon in Arlington County, Virginia.

At 10:03 am, four hijackers crashed United Airlines Flight 93

into a field in Stonycreek Township near Shanksville, Pennsylvania.

“Now, more than ever, it is so critical for communities to come together to Remember all those who served, and Honor their service and their family’s service, especially those who volunteered during the War on Terror following the events of September 11, 2001,” said WAA Executive Director, Karen Worcester. “But more than anything, we must Teach our children about these men and women, and the courage and commitment it takes to be a part of the small number of Americans who protect all our freedoms. Join when you can, as we wave the flag across America, like we do each Tuesday morning, and never forget that Freedom isn’t free, and it must be protected.”

associations. GBH News’ Paul Singer reports that all of the candidates backed the boycott of Marriott Copley Place for firing 230 employees last fall as the pandemic halted tourism to the state and hotels struggled to

survive. Singer writes that workers who lost their jobs have been told they will need to reapply for them with no guarantee of returning with the same pay rate. On a related note, federal COVID benefits expired Monday and

GBH News’ Esteban Bustillos reports that UNITE HERE Local 26, which represents workers in the hospitality industry, is worried about what the loss of benefits will mean for employees in the hotel sector.

Recent South Boston Real Estate Sales Property/Type

133Seaport Blvd UNIT 1212 Condo 150 Dorchester Ave UNIT 304 Condo 11 Springer St UNIT 3 Condo 615 East Sixth St Unit 2 Condo 613 East Sixth St UNIT 2 Condo 602 East Second St UNIT C Condo 420 West Broadway UNT 604 Condo 533 East Second St UNIT 201 Condo 21 Wormwood St UNIT 525 Condo 9 West Broadway UNIT 511 Condo 45 West Third St UNIT 222 Condo 858 East Second St UNIT 5 Condo 96 G St UNIT 1 Condo 135 Seaport Blvd UNIT 1808 Condo 557 East Second St UNIT 1 Condo 75 West Broadway UNIT 302 Condo

Price

Sale Date

Rooms Baths

$1,120,000

6/28/2021

3

1

691

$1,089,000

6/1/2021

5

2

1,474

$1,089,000

6/1/2021

4

2

1,385

$1,085,000

6/4/2021

6

3

1,850

$1,050,000

6/11/2021

4

2

1,500

$1,050,000

6/15/2021

8

2.5

1,950

$979,900

6/4/2021

3

1

873

$975,000

6/18/2021

5

2

1,240

$955,000

6/15/2021

3

1

1,153

$952,000

6/30/2021

4

2

1,282

$825,000

6/15/2021

4

2

1,231

$919,000

6/1/2021

5

2

1,873

$915,000

6/1/2021

5

2.5

1,873

$889,999

6/22.2021

2

1

567

$870,000

6/18/2021

4

1.5

1,167

$864,000

6/3/2021

4

1

1,873

804 E 7th Street Thursday, September 23 6:00 PM- 7:30 PM

Zoom Link: bit.ly/3gPO1U5 Toll Free: (833) 568 - 8864 Meeting ID: 161 814 2892

Project Description: Convert existing 3-story building previously used as a nursing home to 31 residential condominium units with 31 garage parking spaces.

mail to: Stephen Harvey Boston Planning & Development Agency One City Hall Square, 9th Floor Boston, MA 02201 phone: 617.918.4418 email: stephen.j.harvey@boston.gov

BostonPlans.org

Close of Comment Period: 10/1/2021

@BostonPlans

Teresa Polhemus, Executive Director/Secretary

475-511 Dorchester Ave (On the Dot) Wednesday, September 22

Virtual Public Meeting

Sq Ft

Virtual Public Meeting

6:00 PM - 8:00 PM

9

SOUTHBOSTONTODAY • www.southbostontoday.com

September 9, 2021

Zoom Link: bit.ly/OnTheDot-09-22 Toll Free: (833) 568 - 8864 Meeting ID: 161 818 9082

Project Proponent: CORE Investments Project Description: This is an Impact Advisory Group (IAG) and public meeting for the proposed On the Dot project at 475-511 Dorchester Ave. in South Boston. The proposed project consists of the redevelopment of 9.1 acres of land along Dorchester Avenue into a multi-building, mixed-use development with a variety of uses including lab/research, residential, office, and other commercial uses, new public open space, new roadways, and public realm improvements.

The meeting will begin with a 30-minute presentation of PLAN: South Boston Dorchester Avenue and the project by the BPDA and development team respectively, followed by a 45-minute discussion of the IAG, followed by 45-minutes of public Q&A. La información de esta reunión es crucial para usted como residente y parte interesada de la ciudad de Boston. Se encuentra disponible el servicio gratuito de interpretación de la información brindada en estas reuniones. Si necesita servicios de traducción, contáctese con: (Nupoor.Monani@boston.gov) (617.918.4425) The information at this meeting is crucial to you as a City of Boston resident, and stakeholder. Interpreting services are available to communicate the information at these meetings at no additional cost to you. If you require translation services, please contact the following: (Nupoor.Monani@boston.gov) (617.918.4425) mail to: Nupoor Monani Boston Planning & Development Agency One City Hall Square, 9th Floor Boston, MA 02201 phone: 617.918.4425 email: nupoor.monani@boston.gov

Register Now: Scan this QR Code with your phone to register.

BostonPlans.org

@BostonPlans

Teresa Polhemus, Executive Director/Secretary

10

SOUTHBOSTONTODAY • www.southbostontoday.com

September 9, 2021

Mayoral Candidates On The Issues

W

ith acknowledgement to WBUR the Boston mayoral candidates have taken stands on major issues facing the city. Today, Sept.

9 at 7 p.m. WBUR, The Boston Globe, UMass Boston’s McCormack Graduate School of Policy and Global Studies and WCVB are hosting a special live debate among the mayoral candidates.

On Housing Housing sits near the top of priorities for Boston voters. Earlier this year, a poll revealed the city’s housing future was second in importance only to the pandemic.

It also showed that 76% of Boston voters supported some form of rent control.

Only one candidate — Michelle Wu — wants to bring a broad form of rent control back to Boston. Others either oppose rent control or only want restrictions on rents for seniors and disabled people.

John Barros • Plans to advocate for a Just Cause Eviction law, which would require large landlords to notify the city of evictions to generate data and inform tenants of their rights.

• Wants to increase density in areas close to public transit, and create more supportive housing for seniors, people with disabilities and homelessness city residents.

Andrea Campbell • Wants to use legislative tools to generate and preserve affordable housing “that is truly affordable for

those who live here.”

• Plans to use city-owned vacant lots for affordable housing and ownership opportunities and use a revolving loan fund to finance new affordable housing.

Annissa Essaibi George • Plans to reconvene the Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) Task Force to revisit contributions made by nonprofits to generate funds for affordable housing.

• Wants the city to make greater investments in its first-time homebuyers’ program.

Kim Janey • Promotes more mixed-use development in the city, with greater homeownership opportunities and sustainable buildings.

• Wants to ensure that contractors and developers are “inclusive and diverse, employing Boston residents, people of color and women.”

Michelle Wu • Wants Boston to implement a new form of rent control, the only mayoral candidate with this position.

• Proposes planning and zoning changes for greater affordability.

Policing While some Bostonians question how much impact the next mayor will have on policing in the city, whoever is elected will be allowed to choose the next commissioner and set the department’s budget.

John Barros • Wants to disclose all sexual assault

investigations into Boston officers.

• Says he will strengthen use-offorce policies.

Andrea Campbell • Says she will reallocate at least 10% of the Boston police budget, or $50 million to other programs.

• Plans to remove police from schools and shift to a restorative justice model.

Annissa Essaibi George • Says she will divert calls about parking from the police department to the transportation department.

• Wants to release body camera footage within 24 hours of an incident.

Kim Janey • As acting mayor, she proposed a budget that would cut overtime by a third.

• Wants to expand the police force by 30 officers.

Michelle Wu • Plans to divert 911 calls for homelessness, substance use or mental health crises to an outreach team.

• Says she will eliminate binding arbitration for some offenses.

Racial Wealth Gap All the major Boston mayoral candidates say they have ambitious plans to take on one of the most stubborn issues facing the city: The glaring racial wealth gap.

John Barros • Wants to create more pathways to higher education and high-paying jobs.

• Wants to expand the Tuition-Free Community College plan.

Andrea Campbell • Supports ownership of businesses and property, particularly in communities of color.

• Wants to increase access to banking in underserved communities, including Roxbury, Dorchester and East Boston.

Annissa Essaibi George • Says she will establish a Justice Task Force to address racial discrimination and other issues.

• Wants to ensure fair access to housing, credit and financial services.

Kim Janey • Invested $2.4 million in Boston Home Center’s first-time homebuyer program.

• Supports small businesses owned by women and people of color through temporary lease subsidies.

Michelle Wu • Wants to promote home ownership and housing justice • Wants to implement Boston’s Green New Deal, in part to close racial wealth gap.

Free Transit All the major candidates have expressed support for a robust and functional public transit system in the city. But there are some differences in their views on what should be done to improve the T or riders’ experiences, including whether the T should be free for everyone or along certain routes.

John Barros • Says certain bus lines should be free for low-income passengers.

• Wants to add bus lanes and ex-

September 9, 2021

pand the public transit network.

Andrea Campbell • Says passenger fares are overwhelmingly paid by low-income passengers and people of color, reinforcing racial inequities in income and asset building.

• Supports creating neighborhoods where residents live within 15 minutes of day-to-day needs, including groceries, libraries and parks.

Annissa Essaibi George • Wants to invest in public transit.

• Wants to connect essential workers, students and seniors to existing programs offering free or discounted transit fares.

Kim Janey • Calls support for mass transit an economic justice, social justice and racial justice issue.

• Promises a free bus along the 28bus route from Mattapan to Roxbury.

Michelle Wu • Supports free mass transit, starting with buses. Considers it a social justice, economic justice and racial justice issue.

• Advocates dedicated bus lanes and infrastructure to protect pedestrians and cyclists.

Boston Schools All candidates stated that they believe admission to the city’s prestigious exam schools should involve some type of exam.

However, three of the major contenders — Andrea Campbell, Kim Janey and Michelle Wu — each said they also support exam school admissions policies that consider “socioeconomic fac-

SOUTHBOSTONTODAY • www.southbostontoday.com

tors in addition to grades and test scores.” Upgrading district buildings was also a high priority for the candidates. Wu, Janey, Barros and Essaibi George support using existing school funding and one-time federal COVID relief funding to finance that. Campbell supports the idea of borrowing money to speed up the process. Wu and Barros also hope to use some of that one-time federal COVID relief funding to expand access to prekindergarten to all of Boston’s 3- and 4-year-old children.

Four of the five leading candidates for mayor have also signaled openness to restoring elections for some or most committee seats. Andrea Campbell and Michelle Wu say they would pursue that idea, while Kim Janey and John Barros say they’d consider it. Only Annissa Essaibi George told WBUR she was opposed to adding any elected seats to the body.

In any event, a mayor alone couldn’t implement structural changes to the body: it would also need majority support from voters, the city council, and both houses of the state legislature, as well as approval from the governor.

John Barros • Believes exam school entrance should require an exam.

• Wants to use one-time federal pandemic relief funds to help make pre-kindergarten free for all 3 and 4-year-olds in Boston.

• Wants to use additional city funds to meet family needs, like mental health services and food access.

• Wants to ensure art is offered in each school building and each school has outdoor play spaces.

Andrea Campbell • Supports the new exam school admissions policy that considers socioeconomic factors in addition to grades and test scores.

• Believes exam school entrance should require an exam.

• Wants to borrow money to improve school facilities.

• Wants to use one-time federal pandemic relief funding to create a “student acceleration account” with $3,000 per child that parents and caregivers can use toward academic and social-emotional support.

Annissa Essaibi George • Believes exam school entrance shuld require an exam.

• Believes the recent exam school admissions policy change was rushed and didn’t fully understand the impact on all district students.

• Wants to use one-time federal pandemic relief funding to decrease disparities in classroom resources, increase district mental health resources and invest in teacher professional development.

Kim Janey • Supports the new exam school admissions policy that considers socioeconomic factors in addition to grades and test scores.

• Believes exam school entrance

11

should require an exam.

• Wants to increase BPS’s capital budget by 29%.

• Will prioritize learning loss, digital equity and school building upgrades when spending one-time federal pandemic relief funding.

Michelle Wu • Supports the new exam school admissions policy that considers socioeconomic factors in addition to grades and test scores.

• Believes exam school entrance should require an exam.

• Will prioritize facility upgrades like windows and ventilation systems when spending one-time federal pandemic relief funds. She also wants to use the funds to increase district mental health supports and offer more compensatory services for students with disabilities.

• Wants to expand universal prekindergarten.

Climate Change All the major candidates support measures to deal with climate change.

John Barros • Plans to dedicate 20% of Boston’s capital budget to climate resilience projects.

• Supports citywide carbon neutrality by 2050.

Andrea Campbell • Wants every resident to live within walking distance of a park or green space.

• Calls for city operations to be carbon neutral and run on 100% renewable energy by 2035.

Annissa Essaibi George • Pledges to make structural updates to Boston Public Schools, which make up most city-owned buildings.

• Pushed for renewable energy job training at Madison Park Vocational Technical High School.

Kim Janey • Appointed Boston’s current chief of environment, energy and open space.

• Plans to allocate $4 million to the Green Jobs program.

Michelle Wu • Proposed the first city-level Green New Deal in the U.S. • Promises carbon neutrality by 2040, 100% renewable energy by 2030 and a net-zero municipal footprint by 2024.

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SOUTHBOSTONTODAY • www.southbostontoday.com

September 9, 2021

Congressional Medal of Honor Society Holds 2021 Convention in Boston

Many of the nation’s 67 living Medal of Honor Recipients are in Boston for an unprecedented fourth time

M

any of the nation’s Medal of Honor Recipients are in Boston this week for an unprecedented fourth time as the Congressional Medal of Honor Society holds its annual convention, which will include its Citizen Honors Awards for Valor and its Patriot Awards Gala.

Medal of Honor Recipients will participate in a number of public events, including school visits, a harbor cruise on USS Constitution, and the 40th anniversary of the dedication of the

Cheryl Itri to Receive McCormack Award on September 17th at 2020/2021 Evacuation Day Banquet

S

outh Boston Citizens’ Association President Tom McGrath is pleased to announce that Cheryl Itri has been chosen to receive the John W. McCormack at the South Boston Citizens’ Association’s 140th and 141st Annual Evacuation Day

South Boston Vietnam Memorial.

For the first time ever outside of Washington, D.C., the Society will host its Citizen Honors Awards for Valor at the Seaport Hotel on Friday, Sept. 10. Rescheduled because of the COVID-19 pandemic, these awards are made to ordinary Americans who exemplify the values embodied in the Medal of Honor: courage, sacrifice, commitment, integrity, citizenship, and patriotism.

Of the seven citizen recipients from 2020 and 2021, five of the awards will be presented posthumously.

“The Medal of Honor Recipients have formed a strong bond with Boston and the people of Massachusetts and to be able to have them here for the fourth time in 20 years – and to also host their Citizen Honors Awards for Valor - is an honor felt across the Commonwealth,’’ said Thomas J. Lyons, Chairman of the Boston Medal of Honor Convention

Host Committee.

Friday, Sept. 10 The Congressional Medal of Honor Society will host its 2020 and 2021 Citizen Honors Awards for Valor at the Seaport Hotel from 6 to 10 p.m. Media interested in covering this event should contact Kristi Hellmuth at Kristi.hellmuth@ datocwitten.com.

Saturday, Sept. 11 Recipients embark on USS Constitution for an 11 a.m. Boston Harbor cruise following a 9 a.m. 9/11 memorial ceremony at the Charlestown Navy Yard in collaboration with the National Parks Service and the USS Constitution Museum. The best viewing areas for the cruise include anywhere on the Boston Harborwalk between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. with the best viewing for the 12:30 p.m., 21-gun salute and flyover, on Castle Island in South Boston. Media interested in being

aboard USS Constitution should contact Master Chief Petty Officer Elliott Fabrizio at elliott.fabrizio@ navy.mil, ussc.pao@gmail.com or 617-799-8198.

Sunday, Sept. 12 Medal of Honor Recipients will attend and speak at the 40th anniversary of the dedication of the South Boston Vietnam Memorial at Medal of Honor Park in South Boston, at 11:30 a.m. following a 10:30 a.m. memorial Mass at St. Brigid’s Church, 841 East Broadway.

The Medal of Honor The Medal of Honor is the United States’ highest award for military valor in action. First signed into law in 1861 during the Civil War, the Medal of Honor has just over 3,500 Recipients. The Medal is a distinguished award, presented to those who have shown gallantry and intrepidity, at the risk of their lives, above and beyond the call of duty.

Banquet, September 17, 2021. “It is an honor for the Association to present this award to Cheryl for her countless contributions to the betterment of South Boston and the City of Boston for the last 46 years.”McGrath said.

Cheryl Itri has been working with young children and families in South Boston for 46 Years – officially 46 years on October 1st of this year! She has committed her life to

helping shape the lives of children and families and has as much passion for this work.

Today as she did all those years ago – maybe more! Although her work is based here at the South Boston Neighborhood House, Cheryl’s reach spreads across our neighborhood and our City.

Cheryl sits on the Boston Coordinated Family and Community Engagement Steering Committee Board, she is the lead agent for South Boston’s Family Engagement Network, is a valued part of Boston’s Universal Pre-K initiative and a ‘go to’ person for new Childcare initiatives and partnerships across our City.

Cheryl is a great asset to the families of the South Boston. She is a support and a resource to all parents, but she is a true champion for struggling parents who need a little extra

support to be the best parent they can be. She is committed to keeping families strong and parents prepared for all that parenthood requires as well as creating happy hildren who are ready for school both emotionally and academically.

She is a mentor to our young teaching staff, a teacher to all children, a friend to many, a supportive coworker and a resource for all families.

Cheryl is also a loving mother to rian and Nicole, a grandmother to Alice, Ruby and Nicole’s baby who she met in ay of 2020,(updated from original article in 2020)and a dedicated sister.

Cheryl is a true asset to our community and the South Boston Neighborhood House and our South Boston Community are lucky to have her!

Limited Tickets available.

Contact Tom McGrath 857-204-5825.

September 9, 2021

SOUTHBOSTONTODAY • www.southbostontoday.com

13

BCYF Tynan Happenings

T

he Tynan Council and the Administrative Coordinator, John Lydon wanted to give a shout out to our “SuperTeen Girls” here at the Tynan for winning first place this summer in the Scavenger Hunt against 22 other BCYF Centers across the city.

The Tynan is one of only two sites with all-girls SuperTeens. Congratulations are in order and a well done to youth worker, Katie O’Connell who did a great job challenging the teens daily and Kate Hennigan, BCYF Program Manager, central office.

The coordinator stated that he observed the girls having fun and at the same time working hard each day to complete a task. Lots of friendships are made during this program, many that can last a lifetime which could be the most important part of any youth program. Learning to work together as well as responding to leadership and having to be responsible will most likely help our teens become the future leaders in our communities.

It’s all about mentoring and helping raise our kids to be the best they can be. As Katie most certainly hit a homerun on this one, we would also like to acknowledge the entire staff at the BCYF Tynan for pitching in every day to help us have a very successful summer. Thank you!

Youth in the SuperTeens Program

have the opportunity to: • be mentored by BCYF staff throughout the summer • participate in webinars and professional development workshops that will highlight employment skills • articipate in weekly in-person and virtual social and recreational activities, including field trips to museums and challenges that include design activities • earn a stipend of $400 at the conclusion of the program, and • engage in activities that encourage civic engagement and physical health and wellness.

PARTICIPANTS IN SUPERTEENS: • develop new skills, make new friends, and have a fun summer • attend workshops and educational activities to prepare for success in school and in future jobs • enjoy weekly virtual social and recreational activities, and • receive a stipend at the end of the program if they complete all required activities and meet attendance goals.

The SuperTeens program is sponsored by Comcast and The Foundation for BCYF, and is generously supported by MassHousing, MCCA, NBT II Foundation, and The Boston Foundation.

9-11 continued from front page

help in every way they could, putting their own lives in danger and often losing their own lives in heroic efforts to save rescue their fellow Americans. The following is the sequence of some of the events. * At 8:46 am, on Tuesday, Sept.

11, 2001, five hijackers took control of American Airlines Flight 11 and flew it into the heart of New York City and the northern facade of the World Trade Center’s North Tower (1 WTC). * At 9:03 am, five other hijackers flew United Airlines Flight 175 into the southern facade of the South Tower (2 WTC). * At 9:37 am, another five hijackers flew American Airlines flight 77 into the western facade of the Pentagon in Arlington County, Virginia. * At 10:03 am, four hijackers

the nation since the attack on Pearl Harbor signaling the beginning of the Second World War. Young men AND women flooded the military recruitment offices around the country. Many from right here in South Boston rushed to enlist. Political leaders took to the air waves in efforts to calm the public and in the case of then President George W. Bush, vow revenge on those responsible.

People of nearly every political stripe put aside their differences to come together in a unified show of determination to not only prevail against the aggressors but also to offer help to all of those directly affected by the attack. Acts of heroism were happening everywhere as first responders rushed to the scenes to

Superteen girls at the BCYF Tynan cookout enjoying Richie slush!

(L-R) Kate Fiasconaro, Katie O’Connell, Mari Rehm, Victoria Molina, Talia Scott, Camilla Molina, Gia Lamonica, Stella Cote, Morgan Maloney, Reilly New and Maeve Corbitt Nee.

crashed United Airlines Flight 93 into a field in Stonycreek Township near Shanksville, Pennsylvania.

In a strange way, some recalled what happened on that infamous day as being ‘the worst of times followed by the best of times’ the worst of times because of the massive destruction and the tragic loss of so many lives and the many other lives that would be forever shattered.

Followed by what some called the ‘best of times’, what was meant by that was that for the first time in so long, Americans united is a national cause. A kindness towards each other prevailed and the strength and vigor of a great nation was reawakened. Patriotism was on the rise and the will to assist one another, especially those in need was everywhere.

In the aftermath of the attack, most

Americans at the time vowed they would never forget. But 20 years is a long time, and events, no matter how traumatic, tend to fade a bit from memory with the passing of the years with some but certainly not all.

Americans should always keep the memory of 9-11-2001 alive even if we don’t dwell on it constantly. The heroism exhibited by the brave and the kindness shown to others and certainly how the country came together in response are things worth remembering always. But also worth remembering is that the world can be a hostile and dangerous place and America cannot afford to be weak and naïve. A strong and united nation may not always deter aggression from our nation’s enemies but being ready, willing and able to defend itself is a must if we are to survive in the future.

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SOUTHBOSTONTODAY • www.southbostontoday.com

September 9, 2021

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This week, Danny gave “Pic’s Picks” for Week 1 in the NFL:

I

t hasn’t really hit me yet that football season is underway, mainly because I’m about to go down the beach after I write this.

But because it’s Week 1 in the NFL, you know what that means. That means it’s time for my weekly picks.

In case you’re new here, every week during the NFL season I pick five games with the spread, and give my reasoning for those picks.

It’s pretty embarrassing that, in 2021, we still can’t open our DraftKings or Fanduel sportsbook apps and legally bet on these games here in Massachusetts.

I mean, what’s the hold up? Is there really any logical explanation as to why we haven’t yet legalized sports gambling in this state? What am I missing here? I need to know the names of who opposes this, and I need to know why they oppose it.

It’s foolish, childish even. You can’t give us a good reason. That’s why we don’t hear those reasons.

Anyways, until they legalize it in these parts, please gamble responsibly elsewhere. And keep in mind that my picks are my picks. My annual disclaimer is: You’re an adult, you can make your own decisions.

So that said, let’s get to it. Here are my picks for Week 1:

Drink

PITTSBURGH STEELERS (+6.5) over Buffalo Bills -Many people are high on Josh Allen and the Buffalo Bills this season, after seeing them take full advantage of a Tom Brady-less AFC East in 2020. Last year, the Bills won 13 games and advanced to the AFC Championship, only to lose to the Kansas City Chiefs. Now, in 2021, the Bills are back for more. So it might seem a little odd to you that I’m taking the Steelers in this one in Buffalo on Sunday at 1 p.m. Well, I really just like the points, as I think this game will be close. The Steelers had a top-three defense last year and won their division with 12 wins.

I don’t see why Pittsburgh can’t keep this game within a field goal.

Who knows, maybe the Steelers can sneak out of Buffalo with a win.

Either way, +6.5 is a little too much for my liking in Week 1. I’ll take the Steelers to cover all day here.

NEW YORK GIANTS (+3) over Denver Broncos -It’s make or break for Giants quarterback Daniel Jones in 2021.

And he’s got some bulletin-board material to begin the 2021 season, as New York is an underdog at home against the Denver Broncos. Denver will be led by quarterback Teddy

Bridgewater, who won the starting job over Drew Lock. I’m not buying that Bridgewater will keep that starting job for the entire season. Nevertheless, he’ll be under center for the Broncos this Sunday at 4:25. There are reports that Giants running back Saquon Barkley could be available for this game, after missing most of 2020 with a torn ACL. Huge, if true. New York had a top-10 defense last season. And it’s not like Tom Brady’s Buccaneers or Patrick Mahomes’ Chiefs are coming to town.

It’s Bridgwater’s Broncos. They are beatable. I’m taking the Giants to feel the disrespect and win a close one at home to start the year. Give me the points.

LOS ANGELES RAMS (-7.5) over Chicago Bears -The Rams made a blockbuster trade in the offseason, sending Jared Goff to Detroit while bringing in Matthew Stafford. LA had the best defense in the NFL last year, allowing just 18.5 points per game. And they’re clearly bringing in Stafford to sling it 40 times a game. They’ll host a Chicago team — on Sunday Night Football — that has chosen Andy Dalton as their starting quarterback over No. 11 overall draft pick Justin Fields. That won’t last

OPEN

long. I expect the Rams to win by at least 10. LA all day.

GREEN BAY PACKERS (-4) over New Orleans Saints -This game was supposed to be in New Orleans, but got moved to Jacksonville because of Hurricane Ida. So, at a neutral site, with Drew Brees retired, I don’t know how the Packers are only a 4-point favorite in this one. Aaron Rodgers decided to return to Green Bay for at least one more season, and I expect him to be as motivated as ever before. Packers win this one big on Sunday at 4:25. Give me Green Bay to cover.

LOCK OF THE WEEK: SEATTLE SEAHAWKS (-2.5) over Indianapolis Colts -Colts quarterback Carson Wentz is dealing with a foot injury and Covid critics, while the Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson is returning from offseason rumors that he wanted out of Seattle. Well, Wilson is back, and I still expect big things out of him on Sunday in Indianapolis at 1. I don’t think there’s any question that Seattle will win this game. That’s a lock. Will they cover? I’m betting on that as well.

Follow Danny on Twitter and Instagram @DannyPicard.

i ng k r p a do w n h t t h a wa l k b e ac e s e Thursday - Sunday t l o a k e a e r t h o us ’ n “Do t !” T r af t f am i p s . i ng 10am to 12 Midnight e sp o o re o y t h e a k t me t h ge t Friday & Saturday b e f e n jo c k s t d s o ’t f o r d n a n am ro o d a . Do n 10am to 1:00am Sh at f o yo ne Stoli Blueberry Vodka G re e ve r d ays . and Pink Lemonade! f o r h Fr y PUB & GRILL Fi s The Shamrock Pub & Grill - 501 East Eighth Street - South Boston - 617-268-0007 www.shamrockpubboston.com

of the Week

The Shamr ck

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SOUTHBOSTONTODAY • www.southbostontoday.com

September 9, 2021

SPORTS TODAY NFL SEASON Tweet BEGINS of the THURSDAY, Week PATRIOTS HOST DOLPHINS ON SUNDAY

T

SBT Staff

he time has arrived. It’s Week 1 of the 2021 NFL season.

Put the COVID hysteria aside, try to understand that the NFL finished a full season last year without a vaccine, and enjoy the new 18-week schedule.

That’s right, they added a week to the normal 17-week slate, making teams play 17 total regular-season games, instead of the usual 16 regular-season games.

Super Bowl LVI (56) will be held in Los Angeles at the new SoFi Stadium on Sunday, Feb. 13, 2022.

The favorite to win Super Bowl LVI is the Kansas City Chiefs, at +450. The defending Super Bowl champion Tampa Bay Buccaneers have the second-best odds to win the Super Bowl again at +700, followed by — get this — the Buffalo Bills at +1100, the Los Angeles Rams at +1200, and the Baltimore Ravens, Green Bay Packers, and San Francisco 49ers all at +1400.

Here in New England, the Patriots are in the middle of the pack at +3000 to win it all. The Pats have the third-best odds of winning the AFC East division at +350, behind the Miami Dolphins at +325 and the

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hree-time Super Bowl champion David Patten was killed in a motorcycle accident in Columbia over the weekend.

Patten, 47, played four seasons as a wide receiver with the New England Patriots, from 2001-2004. He was a pivotal part of the Patriots’ first Super Bowl championship in 2001, with touchdown catches in both the AFC Championship Game against the Pittsburgh Steelers, and Super Bowl XXXVI against the St. Louis Rams.

“I am heartbroken by the news of David’s passing,” said Patriots owner Robert Kraft in a statement. “He was a devout Christian

NFL THURSDAY, SEPT. 9 Dallas at Tampa Bay (-8) 8:20 P.M. NBC SUNDAY, SEPT. 12 Miami at New England (-3) 4:25 P.M. CBS Chicago at LA Rams (-7.5) 8:20 P.M. NBC MONDAY, SEPT. 13 Baltimore (-4.5) at Las Vegas 8:15 P.M. ESPN NCAAF SATURDAY, SEPT. 11 #11 Oregon at #4 Ohio State (-14.5) 12 P.M. FOX MLB SATURDAY, SEPT. 11 Boston at Chicago White Sox 7:10 P.M. NESN

Bills at -150.

The highest over-under Win Total for the 2021 NFL season goes to the Buccaneers at 12.5. The Patriots’ over-under Win Total is 9.5.

Last season, the Patriots — led by Cam Newton — failed to make the playoffs for the first time since 2008.

Now, Newton has been released, and Bill Belichick will hand the keys over to rookie Mac Jones.

Jones’ first NFL start comes this Sunday in Week 1 against the Miami Dolphins at Gillette Stadium.

Kickoff is at 4:25 p.m. New England is a 3-point favorite at home in this one, but it certainly won’t be an easy

FORMER PATRIOT PATTEN DIES AT 47 SBT Staff

WHATTOWATCH

who followed his passion following his football career and founded his own ministry.

David transitioned from an undersized and understated wide receiver to a powerful and passionate preacher. In New England, he will always be remembered as a three-time Super Bowl Champion. His touchdown reception in the AFC Championship game at Pittsburgh propelled the Patriots to Super Bowl XXXVI and I’ll never forget his remarkable catch in the back of the end zone in that game. It was our only offensive touchdown in the Super Bowl and secured our first championship in franchise history. Our sincerest sympathies are with his wife, Galiena, his family and all

game against a team led by secondyear quarterback Tua Tagovailoa who now is the Dolphins’ QB1.

The Patriots don’t have a bye until Week 14 in December. They’ll play against the NFC South this season, which means that Tom Brady makes his return to Foxboro in Week 4, on Sunday, Oct. 3. That game will be nationally televised on NBC’s Sunday Night Football, as it should be.

Tampa Bay opens the NFL season this Thursday night at home against the Dallas Cowboys on NBC, as the Buccaneers will reveal their Super Bowl championship banner and officially begin their title defense.

who are mourning David’s tragic and untimely death.”

“It breaks my heart to hear of David’s tragic passing at such a young age,” said Patriots coach Bill Belichick in a statement. “I am grateful to have coached David. He is an essential person and player in Patriots history, without whom we would not have been Super Bowl champions. I especially appreciate David for his professional journey. As much as anyone, David epitomized the unheralded, self-made player who defied enormous odds to not only earn a job in the NFL but to become a key player on multiple championship teams. I can speak for anyone who had the pleasure to be around David that his work ethic, positive energy and character were elite. My deepest condolences are with his family and loved ones.”