South Boston Today January 27 2022

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January 27, 2022: Vol.10 Issue 4

SERVING SOUTH BOSTONIANS AROUND THE GLOBE

The Coming Nor’easter Is Top Of The News

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inter storm watches have been issued from the mid-Atlantic to southeastern New England in advance of a nor’easter that is set to charge up the East Coast Friday night into Sunday and may possibly morph into a bomb cyclone and a fullblown blizzard.

“Everything is on the table with this storm,” AccuWeather Chief On-Air Meteorologist Bernie Rayno said today, adding that a fresh injection of cold air will arrive ahead of the storm, which will develop near eastern North Carolina. The storm

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January 27, 2022

EDITORIAL Let’s Beg Our Leaders To Focus On The Stuff That Really Matters

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he progressive agenda of the Democratic Party in Washington DC dominates the national media, but not because of the deep-rooted principles of those in the media and those whose political fortunes may be tied to it. Simply put – it’s all about the benjamins.

The ‘People’s Agenda’ of the Congressional Progressive Caucus include: Dealing with Covid but prioritize Black, Indigenous, People of Color and Other Vulnerable Communities; Transforming to a Clean Renewable Energy Economy; Ensuring Health Care for Everyone; Expanding Voting Rights; Dismantling Racism; Ending Endless Wars; Ending Corporate Greed.

In a perfect world these goals are laudable, even legitimate. However, their implementation will not only take time and hard work but will take 1.) an acceptance of the principle of compromise 2.) a respect for disagreement and 3.) a desire for mutuality of valid objectives. This is undoubtedly hard to come by in this current climate.

The real issues for Bostonians, and indeed Americans, include: Safe streets and neighborhoods; a

Publisher

vibrant economy as it relates to jobs and job opportunities; Education, especially in the formative years; Quality and affordable health care; Affordable housing.

‘Activist leadership’ can be transformative, on the other hand ‘bold vision’ is but a slogan. The job of the Mayor of Boston must be to champion the ‘achievable’.

The job of the City Council is to balance neighborhood needs. The job of the state government is to fund the priorities that, collectively, the Governor, the General Court, local governments and the citizenry successfully petition for.

So: Let’s encourage the young police officers of the BPD to play a leading role in community policing, as they learn from the veteran officers about the dangers of the streets and how to deal with the criminal element that exists.

The BPD doesn’t need to be labelled by the past actions of a few. It’s time to re-fund and not de-fund the police department.

Let’s keep building so that companies will locate here to take advantage of not only the brainpower being nurtured in our colleges, but the skilled technical work force along with the

John Ciccone

blue collar and hospitality workers, who keep the economic engine supported and satisfied.

Let’s upgrade our school facilities at the same time the BPS teachers try to make the covid-affected elementary and secondary school experience as productive as possible.

Planning for the incoming student population has to be a priority, since it is clear that, unfortunately, our current students suffer from the educational setbacks and will need to access remedial support.

Let’s support the community health care system where talented medical staff provide the necessary services that keep health-quality intact, while also keeping it as affordable as possible.

Finally, creating affordable housing is a function of supply. If the supply is low, the price goes up. If the supply is high, the prices come down. Let’s continue to build and support the maintaining of affordable housing as Mayor Michelle Wu’s recently announced $40mm initiative will help

to do. This type of support is critical to maintaining a viable workforce.

Climate change, racism dismantling, ending corporate greed, health care for all, once again, while laudable, can or will only happen after hard work and compromise. So, ‘have at it’ Congress.

Being and feeling safe, putting bread on the table, having educational opportunities, having affordable health care and finding an affordable place to live are the real struggles.

So, let’s stay focused.

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MBTA Proposes Fare Changes, including Permanent 5-Day Flex Pass, Lowering 1-Day LinkPass To $11, Introduction of 7-Day LinkPass for Reduced Fare Riders More information on 2022 fare proposals can be found at mbta.com/2022FareChanges

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BTA staff today presented several fare change proposals that aim to improve equity by closing gaps in existing fare structures for Reduced Fare Riders, minimize pandemic-related revenue implications and budget uncertainties while increasing ridership where possible, and simplify fare tariff rules as the MBTA’s Fare Transformation Program (AFC 2.0) moves forward. If approved by the full MBTA Board in March, these fare changes would go into effect on July 1, 2022. The MBTA welcomes public comment on these proposals.

“We’re excited about our upcoming fare proposals that prepare for technology updates to come as part of AFC 2.0, increasing equity through improvements to LinkPasses, especially for our Reduced Fare Riders, and making the popular mTicket 5-Day FlexPass permanent for Commuter Rail riders,” said MBTA General Manager Steve Poftak. “If approved by the MBTA’s Board in March, these proposals will allow the T to continue to best meet the needs of riders through incremental fare improvements that reflect how they travel now and in the future, while minimizing revenue implications in this time of continued uncertainty.”

Making Permanent 5-Day FlexPass on mTicket for Commuter Rail: First introduced as a pandemic fare pilot in June 2020, the 5-Day FlexPass available on mTicket for the Commuter Rail is a bundled fare valid for any five days of travel within a 30-day period.

Good for unlimited travel within a 24-hour period, these five passes are available for 10% off the cost of 10 one-way trips. An attractive

option for riders whose travel patterns have changed due to hybrid work schedules and the availability of remote-work options, the 5-Day FlexPass on mTicket is proposed to be made permanent.

If approved, the permanent 5-Day FlexPass would go into effect on July 1, 2022, or sooner.

Reducing Price of the 1-Day LinkPass: In an effort to increase ridership by encouraging more riders to buy passes and increase equity for low-income and minority riders who often purchase this fare product, MBTA staff have proposed to lower the cost of the 1-Day LinkPass from $12.75 to $11. An $11 LinkPass pays for itself with five subway rides taken in 24 hours. If approved, the $11 1-Day LinkPass would go into effect on July 1, 2022.

Expanding Second Transfers on Buses, Express Bus Routes, and/ or Subway: Currently, the MBTA only allows one transfer between Bus and/or Subway with one recent addition – CharlieCard riders may transfer from Bus to Subway to Bus. To simplify complexities in the T’s transfer policy, MBTA staff have proposed standardizing the transfer process to allow all combinations of second transfers involving Buses, Express Bus Routes, and/or Subway, including Bus-Bus-Subway, Subway-BusBus, and Express Bus-Express Bus. If approved, the second transfers on Subway and Buses and transfers between Express Routes would go into effect on July 1, 2022.

Proposed Changes for Reduced Fare Riders: Some riders are eligible for reduced fares, including people with disabilities and Medicare cardholders, people 65 and older, some middle and high school students,

and people 18 – 25 with low income. MBTA staff have proposed three fare change proposals that aim to improve equity by closing gaps in existing fare structures for Reduced Fare Riders: • Introducing the 7-Day LinkPass for Reduced Fare Riders: Aiming to increase equity by increasing the benefits of purchasing fares in bulk for Reduced Fare Riders, MBTA staff have proposed the introduction of a 7-Day LinkPass for Reduced Fare Riders, which is not currently available. This 7-Day LinkPass for Reduced Fare Riders is proposed to be available for $10, which breaks even after nine subway rides. This product

is designed to meet the needs of individuals who might not have enough cash on-hand to afford a monthly pass, but who qualify for Reduced Fare programs. Reduced Single Ride fares for Reduced Fare Riders are $1.10 for the subway and $0.85 for the bus with a Reduced Monthly LinkPass available for $30. The Full Fare 7-Day LinkPass is available for $22.50. If approved, the expansion of Reduced Fare 7-Day LinkPass would go into effect on July 1, 2022.

• Introducing Monthly Passes for Reduced Fare Riders on Commuter Rail, Ferry, and Express Bus: In order to increase equity by closcontinued on page 7

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January 27, 2022

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.

Baker’s Finale: Governor looks back over seven years, then forward to his last in office He laughed, he cried, he bragged a bit; then he let out his inner wonk. Gov. Charlie Baker had a fine time last night seizing the moment as he pointed to a jobless rate below the traditional definition of full employment and then declared the state of a pandemic-battered Commonwealth “strong” after all. He waxed a bit sentimental about municipal regulatory reform in weirdly charming fashion, ticked off his accomplishments and praised everyone there for driving Massachusetts through the endless dark days of COVID, singling out particular points of light like the National Guard. He then laid out the Baker/Polito agenda for what he said would be a strong finish, making a plea for collaboration and trust among politicians amidst chaos. As he did, in the audience, the camera caught Maura Healy nodding her head in agreement. Matt Stout and Emma Platoff were there for the Globe; Erin Teir-

nan for the Herald; Matt Murphy and Chris Lisinsky for the News Service (paywall).

Two’s company: Republican Doughty to enter governor’s race There will be plenty of primaries. Wrentham businessman Chris Doughty plans to join the race to become the Bay State’s next governor on Wednesday, setting up a Republican primary clash with Trump acolyte Geoff Diehl, Stephanie Ebbert of the Globe reports. Doughty says he’s getting in because no other “moderates” have stepped forward and plans to argue that his business experience has prepared him to make the state more affordable and prosperous.

“Mass General Brigham has a spending problem” That pretty much sums it up, which is just what the Health Policy Commission was formed to address. With that phrase, the commission yesterday called out a provider, Mass.

General Brigham (i.e. the state’s most prestigious), for being too free with its spending, and therefore making the

system too expensive for everyone and health care harder to get for the less-privileged.

The HCP is putting MGB under a PIP. (Couldn’t resist.) Katie Lannan of the SHNS covered the story.

Feeding the dog that bites you? Businesses giving to Healey Steph Solis of the Boston Business Journal has a thorough, worthwhile walk though of the business dollars that poured into the coffers of Attorney General, now gubernatorial candidate, Maura Healey even before she officially declared. This despite her frequent forays into tough talk and enforcement action when it comes to Big Business vs. the Little Guy. So far, Solis notes, lone Republican Geoff Diehl is not keeping up.

No-clawback... clawback?

Remember Monday? When the governor said the state wasn’t out to shake down people who’d been delivered overpayment by the unemploymentinsurance system? That there

was “no clawback?” Well, Monday was such a long time ago... Shirley Lueng and Larry Edelman of the Globe take the governor to task.

Random Factoid of the Day Massachusetts ranks seventh lowest among the states in pet ownership at 49 percent of homes, according to the website World Population Review.

Wyoming ranks highest (72 percent), and Rhode Island ranks lowest (45 percent).

Guess there’s just no space to keep ‘em.

Fifty-fifty: Saint Vincent says half of striking nurses have returned A month after one of the longest strikes in state history, slightly more than half of the 600 registered nurses who walked off the job at Saint Vincent Hospital have returned to the fold, Grant Welker of the Boston Business Journal reports. That’s fewer than expected and the hospital’s parent company says it is working on a plan to get staffing back to pre-strike levels.

SENATOR COLLINS TESTIFIES IN SUPPORT OF VETERANS’ BILL

Legislation Would Wave Fees for Civil Service Exams

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enator Nick Collins, as a member of the Joint Committee on Veterans’ & Federal Affairs, recently testified in support of S.2427; An Act Exempting Veterans from Civil Service Exam Fees, introduced by Senator Walter F. Timilty.

“For those who have served our country and want to continue

their service here in the Commonwealth, this represents a meaningful piece of financial relief. The objectives are twofold: lower barriers to entry for employment and show those who were willing to sacrifice their lives for our freedom our respect and gratitude for that,” said Sen. Collins.

This Bill is the latest in a number

of measures taken up by the Senate in the past year to better serve our veterans and their families including: • $400M construction of a new Holyoke Soldiers’ Home • $200M for Veterans’ housing across the Commonwealth.

• $500K for the expansion of the Women Veterans’ Outreach Center in the FY’22 Budget

January 27, 2022

SOUTHBOSTONTODAY • www.southbostontoday.com

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MAYOR WU ANNOUNCES TIFFANY CHU AS CHIEF OF STAFF

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hu is a technology and transportation expert, who will bring leadership and innovation skills to City Hall.

Mayor Michelle Wu today announced the appointment of designer and planner Tiffany Chu as her Chief of Staff. Chu will begin transitioning into the role next month.

Chu is the former CEO & Co-founder of Remix, a software platform for transportation planning, and a former Commissioner of the San Francisco Department of the Environment. She will play a crucial role in advancing Mayor Wu’s transportation and climate justice priorities. She will work alongside the Mayor and lead the Mayor’s Cabinet in implementing equitable policies that reach all of Boston’s neighborhoods. Chu will be responsible for overseeing daily operations and long-term initiatives of the Mayor’s Office, and encouraging collaboration between City departments, local organizations outside City Hall, and other levels of government on behalf of Boston residents.

“Tiffany brings a bold vision for what cities can do and how innovative teams can reshape what’s possible,” said Mayor Michelle Wu. “Her planning and team-building skills have already made impacts around the world. I’m confident that as our next Chief of Staff, she will bring our communities together to deliver on our brightest future.”

Tiffany Chu brings a background in design, urban planning, and entrepreneurship. She is the former CEO & Cofounder of Remix, and following the acquisition of Remix in March 2021, she became Senior Vice President at the global leader in transit tech. Remix’s collaborative software platform for transportation planning is used by the MBTA and 500+ cities globally, and aims to build a more equitable world by expanding access within it. The company has been recognized as a Tech Pioneer by the World Economic Forum and BloombergNEF for furthering sustainability and equity in the field. The acquisition of Remix by Via was one of the largest software acquisitions last year.

Chu has also served as a Commissioner of the San Francisco Department of the Environment and sat on San Francisco’s Congestion Pricing Policy Advisory Committee.

“I have long been inspired by Mayor Wu and the new energy and inclusiveness her administration represents,” said Chief of Staff Tiffany Chu. “I am so incredibly honored to return to a city that I love and can’t wait to get started and strengthen Boston’s legacy as one of the most welcoming and livable cities in the world.”

Chu is preceded by Mary Lou AkaiFerguson, who served as Mayor Wu’s Interim Chief of Staff.

“Tiffany’s appointment is a huge win for Boston, and I look forward to seeing how her drive and expertise will create change,” said Mary Lou Akai-Ferguson, former Interim Chief of Staff. “As Boston continues to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic and make progress as a national leader in transportation and climate justice, I know Tiffany will leave a lasting legacy. Congratulations!”

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Previously, Chu was at Code for America, Y Combinator, Zipcar, and Continuum. She’s been named in Forbes’ 30 Under 30, LinkedIn’s Next Wave of Leaders Under 35, and featured at SXSW, Helsinki Design Week, the New York Times Cities for Tomorrow Conference, and more. Chu has a degree from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s (MIT) School of Architecture and Planning.

Chu is a first-generation Taiwanese American. A few of her favorite things around Boston include the Charles River Esplanade, seafood at Giacomo’s, and the City’s walkability.

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January 27, 2022

New Development In JP Will Provide 200+ Housing Units For Working Families

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ayor Michelle Wu, Governor Charlie Baker, The Community Builders (TCB), a leading nonprofit housing organization, and the Pine Street Inn (PSI), New England’s largest homeless services agency, are proud to announce that construction has started on the largest supportive housing development in Boston at 3368 Washington in Jamaica Plain, which once completed, will provide 202 apartments. This is a major milestone during a time of critical need for increased housing in the City of Boston, especially for those facing the challenges of affordability and stability. The plans for the project were announced in March 2019, and the building is due to be completed in late 2023.

“This project, with units for individuals moving out of homelessness, and wrap-around support services, is a significant step towards ending homelessness in the city,” said Mayor Michelle Wu. “Once complete, these apartments will represent the largest supportive housing development in the city, delivering stable, affordable homes to those who require it most. I’m thankful to the community and all our partners who helped make this development possible.”

When the new development is complete, it will create 202 units of affordable housing, of which 140 apartments will be reserved for people who are currently experiencing homelessness, and 62 apartments will be income or rent-restricted apartments for families. The property will be managed by TCB, with programs and services for residents provided by TCB’s Community Life team, trained to connect families to healthcare, education, and employment. Additional supportive services for the 140 units for those moving out of homelessness will be provided by PSI. The Boston Housing Authority will be providing 156 Project-Based Vouchers (PBV) to the development, including all 140 units designated for individuals moving out of homelessness.

“Housing with support services that will help people rebuild their lives is how we will end homelessness,” said Pine Street President and Executive Director Lyndia Downie. “Breaking ground on what will be the largest housing development of its kind in Boston to date, brings us one step closer to reaching the goal of ending homelessness. This could not come at a more critical time, as we grapple with a pandemic and housing crisis in the city. We look forward to housing 140 of Boston’s most vulnerable individuals and providing them with the wraparound services they need to thrive. We are so grateful to the Jamaica Plain community who voiced such strong support for those who will be moving into this building.”

“We are providing rental housing that working families can afford and supportive housing many individuals need, steps away from public transit in the heart of Jamaica Plain,” said Bart Mitchell, president, and CEO of The Community Builders. “We look forward to working with the community and our project partners to make this development a vibrant platform for educational and economic opportunity, where every resident can thrive. We are proud to make this development a model for creating permanent supportive housing at scale, with long-term services and sustainable design.

This new approach to affordable housing addresses Boston’s most pressing needs.”

The 3368 Washington Street project received a diverse combination of public, private philanthropic support to finance the building construction, property operations, and resident services.

Major project funders include $7 million of funding from the Massachusetts Department of Housing and Community Development; Bank of America is providing over $50 million in Low Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) equity and over $60 million in con-

struction financing. Barings/Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company is providing over $20 million in permanent loans as well as over $30 million in tax-exempt bridge financing, the City of Boston Mayor’s Office of Housing is providing more than $16 million of funding, including $1.5 million from the Community Preservation Act and $5 million of linkage funding from The HYM Investment Group; MassDevelopment is providing over $50 million in 4% LIHTC bond financing; the Commonwealth is providing $1.5 million of State Low Income Housing Tax Credits which generate $9.8 million in equity; the Community and Economic Development Assistance Corporation (CEDAC) is providing $4 million of Housing Innovation Funding and $1 million from its Accelerating Investments in Healthy Communities fund, courtesy of Boston Medical Center and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation.

The project was funded in part through the Boston’s Way Home Fund, started by the City of Boston to create permanent supportive housing for chronically homeless individuals. The Fund reached its $10 million goal two years ahead of schedule with lead donations from Bank of America, which helped launch the Fund, Liberty Mutual Insurance, Mass General Brigham, Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company (MassMutual), and Suffolk Cares, each of which committed $1 million. In addition to these funds, Pine Street Inn’s overall housing expansion is being supported by a major grant from the Yawkey Foundation.

The development of the five-story building includes demolition of the existing building and new construction of a five-story, approximately 144,000 square foot mixed-use building with first-floor office and warehouse space and residential units on the upper floors. The project will consist of 202 residential units, with 140 studio supportive

housing apartments and 62 family units. A total of 156 units will be subsidized with Project-Based Vouchers awarded through the Boston Housing Authority, consisting of 111 traditional PBV and 45 Mainstream vouchers. Pine Street Inn, Inc. is the Project Sponsor and 51% member of the Managing Member and TCB is the 49% Managing Member. The Owner, Washington Pine LLC, will enter into a long term services contract with Pine Street Inn to provide daily twenty-four hour intensive supportive services at the property for the 140 supportive housing units and Pine Street and the Owner are establishing a supportive service reserve funded with proceeds from the sale of the property, the Boston Way Home Fund, and operating cash flow. Pine Street Inn will also lease approximately 13,000 square feet of office space on the first floor of the building.

The new building will also include 21 mobility impaired units and 18 sensory impaired units, 2 of which will also be mobility impaired units.

The apartments will include 13 studio apartments, 4 one-bedroom apartments, and 1 two-bedroom apartment. Of the mobility and sensory impaired units, there will be 1 three-bedroom mobility-impaired apartment; 13 studio apartments, 2 one-bedroom apartments, and 1 twobedroom sensory impaired apartments; 2 studio mobility/sensory impaired apartments; and 12 of the 13 mobility and sensory impaired units are supportive housing studios. The architect for the new development is RODE Architects, a Boston-based design and architecture firm.

January 27, 2022

SOUTHBOSTONTODAY • www.southbostontoday.com

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CITIZENS’ ASSOCIATION ANNOUNCES REP. DAVID BIELE EVACUATION DAY CHAIRMAN

The Annual Evacuation Day Banquet will be held on March 18th,2022

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outh Boston Citizens’ Association President Thomas E. McGrath has announced that State Representative David Biele will serve as General Chairman of the Association’s 2022 Evacuation Day commemoration by the SBCA Executive Board.

“The executive board and I look forward to working with Dave, to ensure once again the success of this unique community celebration, the commemoration of the British evacuation of Boston in 1776,” said McGrath. Dave is a lifelong resident and active member of the SBCA his entire adult life. His dedication to the South Boston Citizens’ Association and the neighborhood of South Boston will continue to make it a great place for all who live here. We are honored to list him as a member, and even prouder to name

MBTA continued from page 3

ing gaps in the T’s offering of products for Reduced Fare Riders, MBTA staff have proposed introducing monthly passes on Commuter Rail, Ferry, and Express Bus for Reduced Fare Riders. This proposal would offer a full set of monthly passes for Reduced Fare Riders at approximately 50% of the full fare pass prices. Currently, Reduced Fare Riders have to purchase Singe Ride tickets to benefit from the Reduced Fare pricing. If approved, the expansion of Monthly Passes for Reduced Fare Riders would

him this year’s General Chairman.”

Representative David Biele is currently serving his second term in the Massachusetts House of Representatives. He is currently the Vice Chair of the Joint Committee on Public Safety and serves on the House Committee on Ways and Means, the House Committee on Economic Development and Emerging Technologies, and the House Committee on Export Development.

David is currently serving as Chair of the Boston Delegation and as a Commissioner on the Metropolitan Beaches Commission.

A lifelong resident of South Boston, David grew up playing organized sports and attended St. Peter School and Boston Latin School.

He graduated from Boston College, completing his degree in three years, and was the first person in his family to receive a college degree. David then attended Boston College Law School, where he represented tenants in housing law cases.

As a youth, David played South Boston Youth Hockey, South Boston Little League, South Boston Youth Soccer and South Boston Youth Lacrosse, and, as an adult, has been deeply engaged with local community-based programs and volunteer programs in South Boston. He served as a past president of the Harry

McDonough Sailing Program, an advisory board member to the Edgerley Family South Boston Boys and Girls Club and has volunteered with South Boston Special Kids and Young Adults and the TEAM Mentoring Program at the Labouré Center.

Prior to entering public office, Biele spent four years working in the Massachusetts State House on policy, legislation, and constituent services and worked as a hearing officer for the Department of Public Utilities, developing evidentiary records and crafting legal decisions.

Earlier this session, Rep. Biele worked with Sen. Collins to pass legislation creating a commission charged with commemorating the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution.

McGrath also stated “I have known David since his Little League and Youth Hockey careers and have worked with him on community issues since he has been elected to office, most recently with the successful Murphy Rink roof repair project.

While the citizens of South Boston see the three weeks of celebration with each year’s Evacuation Day celebration, there are another 12-15 weeks of preparation to put it all together. Dave works side by side with other dedicated SBCA members in those hectic weeks, licking stamps, making phone calls and doing what-

ever it takes.”

The Association along with the City of Boston Credit Union, Comcast and Mass Bay Credit Union will once again sponsor a full roster of civic and sporting events over a three-week period per all city guidelines.

The full schedule of events, as well as the identities of the 2022 Henry Knox Award (presented at the Kickoff Breakfast on February 26th at the Sea-Point Restaurant) , John W. McCormack Public Service Award, The John McCormack , The SBCA Presidents Award and James “Jim” Kelly Shamrock Community Service awards, will be announced in coming weeks.

go into effect on July 1, 2022.

• Expanding Availability of the LinkPass for Reduced Fare Riders on Commuter Rail Zone 1A and Inner Harbor Ferry: Currently, a LinkPass for Reduced Fare Riders is only available on CharlieCard fare media instead of a printed “flash pass” CharlieTicket that Commuter Rail conductors and ferry staff can see to visually validate a fare. As more updates take place as part of AFC 2.0, customers will be able to use tappable tickets as well as CharlieCards to travel

on the Commuter Rail and Ferries.

As such, and to increase access and equitable pricing on Reduced Fare passes, MBTA staff have proposed making the LinkPass for Reduced Fare Riders valid for Commuter Rail travel in Zone 1A and on the Charlestown Ferry. If approved, this expansion of the LinkPass for Reduced Fare Riders would go into effect on July 1, 2022.

The public is invited to comment on these proposed changes at a virtual public meeting to be held on Thursday, February 10, 2022, at 6 PM well

as the official public hearing to be held virtually on Thursday, February 17, 2022, at 6 PM. The public is also welcome to submit comments online through Thursday, March 3, 2022, at mbta.com/2022FareChanges or by email to publicengagement@mbta. com. The Title VI analysis will be shared with the MBTA’s Board and posted to mbta.com prior to the scheduled March 24, 2022, Board meeting.

For more information, please visit mbta.com or connect with the T on Twitter @MBTA, Facebook /TheMBTA, or Instagram @theMBTA.

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SOUTHBOSTONTODAY • www.southbostontoday.com

South Boston Catholic Academy News

Reading can be funny, exciting and wonderful!

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outh Boston Catholic Academy recently held our Annual Scholastic Book Fair. Students, parents and teachers were able to visit the book fair and purchase

some of their favorite books to read at home, share in their classroom and/or give as gifts. A Big Thank you to Mrs. Liz Brooks for organizing this book fair and to all the par-

ents and families that helped to make it a very successful book fair.

Here are some famous quotes regarding reading books… “Once you learn to read, you will be forever free.” Frederick Douglas; “Oh, magic hour, when a child first knows she can read printed words!” - Betty Smith ; “Today a reader, tomorrow a leader.” - Margaret Fuller; “There is more treasure in books than in all the pirate’s loot on Treasure Island.” - Walt Disney; “If you don’t like to read, you haven’t

January 27, 2022

found the right book.” - J.K. Rowling and “I have a passion for teaching kids to become readers, to become comfortable with a book, not daunted. Books shouldn’t be daunting, they should be funny, exciting and wonderful; and learning to be a reader gives a terrific advantage.” - Roald Dahl.

New families are welcome to email Mrs. Jamie Brown at j.brown@sbcatholicacademy.org to learn more about South Boston Catholic Academy.

January 27, 2022

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SOUTHBOSTONTODAY • www.southbostontoday.com

Virtual Public Meeting

Virtual Public Meeting

244 - 284 A Street Tuesday, February 15

Zoom Link: bit.ly/AStreet2-15

6:00 PM

Toll Free: (833) 568 - 8864 Meeting ID: 161 644 0974

Project Description: BPDA-hosted Article 80 Public Meeting in connection with the Supplemental Information Filing for the proposed 244 284 A Street project, which was submitted to the BPDA by Related Beal on January 21, 2022. Please register in advance for this meeting through the link provided above. After registering you will receive a confirmation email from Zoom with a link to join the meeting directly. mail to: Aisling Kerr Boston Planning & Development Agency One City Hall Square, 9th Floor Boston, MA 02201 phone: 617.918.4212 email: aisling.kerr@boston.gov

Close of Comment Period: 2/22/2022

BostonPlans.org

87-93 West Broadway Tuesday, February 8 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

Zoom Link: bit.ly/87-93Wbroadway Toll Free: (833) 568 - 8864 Meeting ID: 161 656 0725

Project Proponent: 79 - 93 West Broadway LLC Project Description: Meeting of the general public to review the proposed 87-93 West Broadway (NPC) development in South Boston. This meeting will be focused on the proposed notice of project change for 87-93 West Broadway development for a change of ownership. Please note that this is a combined Public Meeting. The meeting will begin with a 45-minute presentation of the project by the development team, followed by 45-minutes of public Q&A. The information at this meeting is crucial to you as a City of Boston resident, and stakeholder. Interpreting services are available to communicate the content of these documents at no additional cost to you. If you require translation services, please contact the following: Tyler.C.Ross@boston.gov. The meeting is scheduled for 2/8/2022. Please request interpreting services no later than 5 days before the meeting date.

Ready to Register?

Scan the QR Code with your smart phone. mail to: Tyler Ross Boston Planning & Development Agency One City Hall Square, 9th Floor Boston, MA 02201 phone: 857.334.8952 email: tyler.c.ross@boston.gov

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Teresa Polhemus, Executive Director/Secretary

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ABCD provides FREE tax preparation for residents earning $58,000 or less

A

ction for Boston Community Development urges all residents of Boston and the Mystic Valley region who earned $58,000 or less in 2021 to

make an appointment NOW for FREE tax preparation services that begin January 31.

ABCD’s IRS-certified tax preparers will prepare and submit tax returns,

working primarily online and also by drop-off, phone and email, with limited in-person appointments for those lacking needed technology.

continued on page 10

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SOUTHBOSTONTODAY • www.southbostontoday.com

Amtrak Promotes ‘Northeast Getaway Sale’ Travel Anywhere Between D.C. and Boston

A

mtrak travelers who are looking to travel more and spend less this year can

ABCD continued from page 9

ABCD preparers make sure that all tax relief measures that benefit low and moderate-income residents are provided, including EITC, Child Tax Credit, Senior Circuit Breaker and more. This ABCD program is part of the federal Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program.

To book an appointment, call your nearest ABCD neighborhood center listed at bostonabcd.org/taxassistance or call ABCD Connect at 617-348-6559.

“The COVID-19 pandemic with its crushing variants plus soaring prices due to inflation have thrown vulnerable individuals and families into a full-blown crisis,” said ABCD President/CEO John J. Drew. “This free tax preparation service can mean the difference between paying their rent and being at risk of losing their home. It can meet needs for immediate expenses such as food and medication and utility bills and help

January 27, 2022

take advantage of Amtrak’s latest promotion, which offers $49 for Acela Business class tickets and $19 Coach tickets on Northeast Regional trains and other trains traveling along the Northeast Corridor for travel between any two cities from Boston and Washington, D.C. This sale is valid between Wednesday, January 26 and Saturday, January 29, for travel between Tuesday, February 1 and Thursday, May 26, 2022 via Amtrak.com/NortheastGetaway-Sale. Fares will auto price, no discount code needed.

“The ‘Northeast Getaway Sale’ presents the opportunity to make it easier and more affordable to see some of the most popular cities in the world,” said Amtrak Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing and Revenue Officer Roger Harris. “Whether it’s to see friends and family, experience a sporting event, or explore a new city or old favorite, Amtrak can help our customers with a safe and relaxing way to travel.”

While traveling, customers can have a renewed sense of confidence with the following safety efforts Amtrak has implemented with the guidance of a medical director and partnership with George Washington

University Milken Institute School of Public Health: • Face coverings: Please be advised Federal law requires all customers and employees to wear a mask at all times while onboard trains and in stations, regardless of vaccination status or state or local laws. Refusing to wear a mask is a violation of federal law; passengers may be subject to penalties under federal law, denied boarding, removed from the train and banned from future travel in the event of noncompliance.

• Real-time seat availability: Amtrak is no longer limiting capacity.

When searching for travel, the percentage of seats sold displays next to each trip option and adjusts as more reservations are made, which gives customers the opportunity to book a train that is less crowded.

If capacity exceeds comfort levels, customers can change their ticket without incurring a fee (a fare difference may apply). Customers traveling on the Acela will also have the ability to select their seat via Reserved Seating.

• Air Quality: Customers can travel with extra confidence knowing all our trains are equipped with onboard

filtration systems with a fresh air exchange rate every 4-5 minutes.

• Fee waivers: Amtrak is waiving all change fees for reservations made by April 30, 2022.

• Amtrak app: The Amtrak app makes contact-free travel easy.

Customers can book, board, check train status and access information from the convenience and safety of a mobile device. Amtrak encourages boarding with eTickets, which conductors scan from the app.

This offer is not combinable with any other discount offer and upgrades are not permitted. The sale is only available on Northeast Regional, Acela, and trains traveling the Northeast Regional route. Not available for Sunday travel. Fares are subject to availability and may not be available on all trains at all times. Fares are one way (adult), and no additional discounts apply or upgrades allowed. Fares, routes and schedules are subject to change without notice. Once travel has begun no changes to the itinerary are permitted. Change fees are waived for reservations made by April 30, 2022. Other restrictions may apply.

families find financial footing, moving forward.”

The Earned Income Tax Credit or EITC has been called one of the most successful antipoverty programs ever provided. An initiative that rewards working people, it was established to assist income-eligible taxpayers, reaching out to those in underserved communities.

EITC provides a married couple with three or more children earning up to $57,414 and filing jointly with the maximum federal 2021 EITC of $6,728 plus the state EITC of $2,018 for a total EITC of $ 8,746. For details regarding family size and payments, see bostonabcd. org/tax-assistance.

EITC can be accessed retroactively for the previous three years, so eligible taxpayers can qualify for a sizeable sum. Drew noted that ABCD has worked with people buried under a mountain of debt, people who felt they were out of options and who didn’t know they qualified for EITC. The

IRS estimates one out of five eligible taxpayers will not claim EITC and will lose out on this important credit.

In 2021, families received six months of their federal Child Tax Credit in monthly payments from the IRS from July through December.

Their second six months of CTC payments will be included in their 2021 tax return. The total 2021 CTC for each child under age 6 is $3,600; for each child ages 6 to 12 it is $3,000.

The CTC, which ended December 31, 2021, is credited with dramatically reducing child poverty in America and child and family advocates are calling urgently for its renewal.

In addition, taxpayers who were eligible to receive the American Rescue Plan payment of $1,400 but did not receive the full amount in 2021 can claim the Recovery Rebate Credit against their 2021 income tax.

ABCD tax filers also make sure that eligible clients receive the Senior Circuit Breaker Tax Credit which provides

seniors aged 65 and older with up to $1,170 in tax refunds from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. This credit is available to all eligible seniors who pay unsubsidized rent or property taxes and is retroactive for three years.

ABCD and a host of other community partners and volunteers make up Mayor Michelle Wu’s Boston Tax Help Coalition. ABCD, which played a role in founding the coalition in 2001, also serves as a critical Massachusetts component of the Internal Revenue Service Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. In the last 30 years, ABCD has provided more than 150,000 people with free tax help preparation across the city.

ABCD recruits volunteers who receive special training to become IRS-certified and are supervised by experienced ABCD executive staff.

Along with helping others, volunteers gain skills useful in future employment.

THE 2021 TAX FILING SEASON ENDS ON APRIL 19, 2022!

January 27, 2022

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SOUTHBOSTONTODAY • www.southbostontoday.com

This week,

Danny gave “Pic’s Picks” for Conference Championship weekend in the NFL Playoffs:

S

o, um, about last weekend.

I didn’t get a single pick correct. That’s right, I went 0-4 against the spread in the Divisional Round, bringing my record on the season to 51-44.

With only three games left to pick on the year — the two Conference Championship games, and the Super Bowl — I’ve at least guaranteed myself an above-.500 record. But there’s no question, a winless weekend is a complete failure.

In my defense, the Divisional Round was complete chaos. For football fans who didn’t pick the home favorites, it was one of the best weekends of playoff football, ever. But for those of us who bet the Titans, Packers, and Buccaneers, well, it wasn’t as much fun to watch.

Now, we’re down to the NFL’s final four. The Bengals vs the Chiefs, and the 49ers vs the Rams. Not exactly the final four that I was expecting, but it’ll do.

Right now, the Kansas City Chiefs are the favorite, at +120, to win Super Bowl LVI in LA. The Rams have the second-best odds to win it all, at +200. The 49ers have the third-best odds

at +450, and as expected, the Bengals are the heavy underdog at +800.

The favored matchup in Super Bowl LVI is the Chiefs vs Rams at +100.

Will that be the Super Bowl matchup though? If it is, it will mark the second straight year that a team plays the Super Bowl in their home stadium. Last year, it was the Buccaneers. This year, it would be the Rams.

Here are my picks for the AFC and NFC Championship games: CINCINNATI BENGALS (+7.5) over Kansas City Chiefs -Both Conference Championship games are a rematch from the regular season. In this AFC Championship Game on Sunday at 3:05 p.m. in Kansas City, it’s a rematch of Week 17. That Week 17 game took place in Cincinnati, and the Bengals won, 3431, thanks to a game-winning 20-yard field goal in the final seconds of the fourth quarter by Evan McPherson. McPherson has earned the nickname “Money Mac,” and for good reason.

McPherson sent the Bengals into this AFC Championship by kicking a game-winning 52-yard field

goal in Tennessee last weekend in the Divisional Round. Now, he’ll look to do it again in what I expect to be a close game against the Chiefs. The Bengals’ win over the Chiefs in Week 17 marks Kansas City’s only loss in the final two-and-a-half months of the regular season. Secondyear quarterback Joe Burrow is a stud, and is also living up to his nickname of “Joe Cool.” But do I think Cincinnati will be able to go into Kansas City and win this game on Sunday? I don’t. Here’s what I do know, though: it will be close. That’s why I’m taking the points because I think the Chiefs win by a field goal. Give me the the Bengals to cover.

LOCK OF THE WEEK: LOS ANGELES RAMS (-3.5) over San Francisco 49ers -I’ve got to hand it to the Rams. Their final drive to prevent a devastating loss to the Buccaneers in the Divisional Round was quite impressive. Because for a moment, it looked as though Tom Brady was going to do it again and come back from a 20-plus point deficit in the second half of a playoff game and steal a win. But Matthew Staf-

ford and Cooper Kupp had different plans, as Stafford connected with Kupp on a deep 44-yard pass down the middle to Tampa Bay’s 12-yard line with just six seconds left in a tie game, setting up Matt Gay to kick a game-winning 30-yard field goal to send the Rams to the NFC Championship. LA will now host the 49ers in that NFC Championship on Sunday at 6:40 p.m. San Francisco has beaten the Rams twice this season. And the 49ers have gone into Dallas and Green Bay and knocked off both of those teams to end up in a third game against LA. And I do believe the third time will be the charm for the Rams. After holding off Brady and the Bucs, the Rams showed me that they’re ready to play for the Lombardi Trophy.

Only Jimmy Garoppolo sands in their way. I’m taking Stafford and the Rams to get the job done and win by at least a touchdown.

I wouldn’t be surprised if the Rams actually run San Francisco out of the building. Give me LA to win, cover, and face the Chiefs in Super Bowl LVI. Follow Danny on Twitter and Instagram @DannyPicard.

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will then rapidly intensify while it moves northward along or just off the East Coast into the weekend.

As the storm quickly strengthens, it will create hurricane-force winds across parts of eastern New England, raising concerns for significant blowing and drifting of snow, reduced visibility, power outages and blizzard conditions. Along the coastline, flooding and beach erosion will be a serious threat, especially in eastern Massachusetts.

“Winds will become a major problem. This could be a real damaging storm,” Rayno said.

Snow accumulations of 12 to 18 inches, with an AccuWeather Local StormMax™ of 36 inches, are predicted to occur in the stretch that spans Boston and Worcester, Massachusetts. The combination of winds frequenting 40 mph or

SOUTHBOSTONTODAY • www.southbostontoday.com

greater along with heavy snow will reduce the visibility to 1/4 of a mile or less for several hours, triggering blizzard conditions in portions of New England.

The intense storm has the potential to shut down Boston Logan International Airport and could lead to scores of flight cancellations in New York City, Philadelphia and Washington, D.C., that can have ripple effects across the nation as crews and aircraft are displaced.

AccuWeather forecasters advise avoiding travel across much of New England during the storm on Saturday and Saturday night if it is avoidable. Heavy snow rates between 1 and 3 inches per hour along with extensive blowing and drifting snow will create extremely dangerous travel conditions. Snow drifts of several feet could occur in open areas. The storm is likely to main-

tain that intensity for a period of 8-12 hours, making it difficult to impossible for crews to keep up with roadways. Motorists who venture out could risk becoming stranded.

Should the storm strengthen to its maximum potential, hurricane-force winds of 74 mph or greater could be felt in southeastern New England, causing power outages.

“Roads prone to flooding during nor’easters along the coast in eastern Massachusetts are likely to be inundated with significant over-wash from this storm,” AccuWeather Senior Meteorologist Brett Anderson said. The combination of the astronomical effects of the new moon this weekend can make the high tides early Saturday morning and Saturday evening most problematic.

Preceding the snowstorm will be intermittent snow and flurries

January 27, 2022

during Thursday night and Friday from parts of the central Appalachians to the mid-Atlantic and New England as a press of Arctic air arrives from Canada.

“Due to limited moisture available for this event, accumulations are likely to be light, but as we have seen in the past, even a quick coating of snow can make for hazardous conditions on the highways,” AccuWeather Senior Storm Warning Meteorologist Brian Wimer said.

Any wet and slushy areas created by the storm in the mid-Atlantic and New England could freeze on Saturday night and Sunday night.

The first winter storm watches were issued for portions of eastern Massachusetts, eastern Connecticut and Rhode Island on Wednesday at 3 p.m. -- some 57 hours before they were set to go into effect at 12 a.m. on Saturday.

January 27, 2022

SPORTS TODAY ORTIZ Tweet ELECTED TO of the NATIONAL Week BASEBALL HALL OF FAME

T

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SOUTHBOSTONTODAY • www.southbostontoday.com

WHATTOWATCH

NFL SUNDAY, JAN. 30 AFC Championship Cincinnati at Kansas City (-7.5) 3 P.M. CBS

NFC Championship San Francisco at LA Rams (-3.5) 6:30 P.M. FOX NBA FRIDAY, JAN. 28 Boston at Atlanta 7 P.M. NBCSB SATURDAY, JAN. 29 Boston at New Orleans 7 P.M. NBCSB NHL FRIDAY, JAN. 28 Boston at Arizona 9 P.M. NESN/ESPN+ WWE SATURDAY, JAN. 29 Royal Rumble 8 P.M. Peacock

SBT Staff

here was only one player voted into the Baseball Hall of Fame Class of 2022, and that player was David Ortiz.

Ortiz gets in as a first-ballot Hall of Famer, and joins Pedro Martinez, Ted Williams, Carl Yastrzemski, and Wade Boggs as the only players who spent a majority of their careers with the Red Sox to be elected in their first year on the ballot. He is now one of 37 former Red Sox players to be elected into the Hall of Fame for their playing careers.

Overall, Ortiz is the 58th player to be voted in as a first-ballot Hall of Famer. He is also the fourth player born in the Dominican Republic to be elected, joining Martinez, Vladimir Guerrero, and Juan Marichal.

In order to be elected, a player must receive 75 percent of the votes. Ortiz was the only player to receive more than that, getting a total of 307 votes, which is 77.9 percent.

Notable snubs are Roger Clemens, Barry Bonds, Curt Schilling, and Alex Rodriguez. It was the final year on the ballot for Clemens, Bonds, and Schilling, while it was Rodriguez’ first year on the ballot.

The story though, for now, is Ortiz heading to Cooperstown.

“I am truly honored and blessed by my selection to the Hall of Fame — the highest honor that any baseball player can reach in their lifetime,” said Ortiz in a statement

on Tuesday night. “I am grateful to the baseball writers who considered my career in its totality, not just on the statistics, but also on my contributions to the Red Sox, the City of Boston, and all of Red Sox Nation.

I am also grateful to my teammates, my managers and coaches and Red Sox ownership for their faith in me and allowing me to be part of three World Championships.

“For a young boy from Santo Domingo, I always dreamed of playing professional baseball. Thanks to the encouragement of my father, Leo, and my mother, Angela Rosa, I knew from my earliest days at Estudia Espaillat High School in the Dominican Republic that I had the opportunity to pursue my dream of playing in the big leagues. And while my path to success was not straightforward, it was my friend, the Hall of Famer, Pedro Martinez, who convinced the Red Sox to give me a chance to achieve success. And while my path to Boston took 10 years, those 14 years in a Red Sox uniform were the best of my life.

We broke the curse and then got two more championships before I retired in 2016 — what a sweet and beautiful journey it has been.

“I am so thankful to my family and my children for being with me tonight on this special recognition.

And I know my mother is throwing me kisses from heaven just like I

always threw her a kiss after every home run.”

Red Sox ownership also released a statement on Tuesday night, honoring Big Papi.

“There are countless reasons why David is deserving of this honor, beginning with three World Series trophies that we would not have without his heroics on the field and his leadership,” said Red Sox Principal Owner John Henry. “He was critical in transforming the narrative around the Red Sox from one of curses and superstitions to tales of clutch moments and a collection of championships. David’s most meaningful and profound contributions, however, are not fully reflected in trophies and awards, but rather on the faces of every player held in David’s bear-hug embrace over the years, by our memories of stirring dugout rally speeches, and with his fist raised in solidarity

with our community during its darkest hour. For the past two decades, David has meant the world to us and we are proud that Cooperstown will be another stop on his supremely impactful journey. Congratulations, David.”

“David Ortiz is the most important player to ever wear a Red Sox uniform,” said Red Sox President and CEO Sam Kennedy. “He came to Boston in relative anonymity and with his captivating personality and his formidable bat he shattered expectations and paved the franchise’s future in championships and Duck Boat parades. The record numbers he put up and the dedication he showed in meticulously honing his craft is deserving of first ballot entry into the Hall of Fame. David, Boston and Fenway Park will always be your home but we will make an exception for Cooperstown. Congratulations, my friend. Enjoy your moment.”