South Boston Today December 7 2023

SouthBoston TODAY Online & On Your Mobile

December 7, 2023: Vol.11 Issue 49

SERVING SOUTH BOSTONIANS AROUND THE GLOBE

Everything You Need S to Know to Stay Safe

cammers can steal your credit and debit card information whenever you swipe using legit-looking devices. We tell you what need to know about these rare, but nasty, attacks. Have you ever thought about how woefully insecure credit and debit cards are? Try this experiment: Plug a USB magnetic strip reader into a computer, open a word processor, swipe a credit card, and boom—you just stole your own card information. It is that easy.

Now consider that the same technology comes in faster and smaller forms. Tiny “skimmers” can be attached to ATMs and payment terminals to pilfer your data from the card’s magnetic strip (called a “magstripe”). Even smaller “shimmers” are shimmed into card readers to attack the chips on newer cards.

There is now also a digital version called e-skimming, pilfering data from payment websites.

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December 7, 2023

EDITORIAL Not As Many But Package Thieves Are Still Around

T

he Christmas season brings us many things. As it has for generations in South Boston, and still is in 2023, Christmas is a time of festivities different from any other time of year. The joy of all the bright and beautiful lights and the Christmas trees themselves. The homes are decked out with a variety of decorations that make neighbors smile.

There are of course the church choirs and pageants, the plays, the concerts and the classic movies and recent movies that we watch each year along with the familiar Christmas songs that can be heard playing everywhere.

As most of us look forward to taking part and maybe being part of the traditional events that have stood the test of time, there are still a few things that have the potential to be, well, not so festive and joyful. It’s a relatively new happening that came about some years back as online shopping came about. Yes, the package thieves are back.

Some call them ‘Porch Pirates’ but most call them names that we could never print in this newspaper. But regardless of how they are described, the bad news is that reports and complaints by residents say they are back.

Ah, but the good news is that, at least so far, there doesn’t

seem to be as many of them as there were in recent years.

The reason for less activity among the creeping thieves is thought to be they are aware that we, as a community, are aware of their tactics and are on the lookout for them. It’s said that the number of South Boston homes that have security cameras and other video devices may now be as numerous as the homes without them. This is also a major deterrent to the Porch Pirates.

Another reason is of course, our local police are vigilante and respond quickly to calls by neighbors about suspicious activity; calls the police absolutely want neighbors to make. And remember, when reporting these incidents, the

number to call is 911, not 311.

But even though the thieves seem to be fewer this year and less active and much less brazen – so far, they are still out there.

One of their favorite tactics is to follow UPS, Amazon, Fed EX and other delivery trucks and watch where they drop of the packages and boxes. They then swoop in quickly and help themselves to the delivery made to your doorstep. Though it has become more difficult for the thieves to pull off this year, remember, this is their ‘most wonderful time of the year’ too and some still risk it.

The point of this editorial is to be vigilante, lookout for your neighbors and if you

haven’t yet bought security cameras, it’s a good time to consider it. They are one of the very few items that have actually gone DOWN in price in 2023. The Christmas season is much too special to let the package thieves ruin it. If we all work together, we can thwart these crooks and maybe even nail a couple of them OR, help put a couple of them in jail.

“The more power you give to the government, the more corrupt it will become.” - Ronald Reagan

Hearts, Hugs & Hope: A Virtual December 21, 2023, 6:00 pm. Dealing with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementia isn’t easy, so it is helpful to share your concerns and personal experiences with others Alzheimer’s Support Group who completely understand what you’re going through. You will also learn about proven Offered by Compass on the Bay strategies to help you better care for your family member. This group will be held in conjunction with our sister community, Standish Village. Call 617-268-5450 or email

Program Director Erin Bollinger at ebollinger@compassonthebay.com for more information and to register for the virtual meeting.

This is a virtual event sponsored by Compass on the Bay Assisted Living and Memory Support Community, 1380 Columbia Road, South Boston.

Publisher

John Ciccone

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December 7, 2023

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Information Center The

The News Media Continues To Show Its Nasty Side John Ciccone

M

ost of our readers are well aware how so much of the news media operate.

While the media itself will indignantly demand that the public trust them and believe every word they say and/or write, the overwhelming number of people in America, know their claims are a bunch of BS. They are about slanting the news out of proportion and in ever increasing instances, just flat out lying. It’s no longer their goal to report to us or to inform us about what’s going on accurately. It has become more like ‘Here’s what we want you to think today.

The most recent and biggest case in point is the story that broke out last week about the 9 year old Kansas City Chief’s football fan Holden Armenta. Most of you know the story.

Young Holden was at the game on November 27th between the Chiefs and the Las Vegas Raiders. The kid is such a big fan, he painted his face half black and half red. Those are the colors of the Chief’s team.

He also wore a beautiful Native America/American Indian Headdress as a symbol of admiration for the team that has taken that name for that purpose. By all accounts, Holden was having a great time. He was at the game with his family, watching his favorite team play. What could be better? The way he was dressed got him high fives and thumbs up from many in the crowd. The Big video screens were zeroing in on him and he was being shown all over the stadium to the cheers of the massive crowd. Heck, five of the opposing team’s cheerleaders posed for pictures with him and the Chief’s team members loved it. It was probably the biggest day of Holden Armenta’s young life. Next to the players and cheerleaders, he was the biggest hit of the day. But then the dark dismal

SOUTH BOSTON TODAY

cloud of a certain so called sportswriter cast its ugly shadow over the event to paint this day as one of hate and racism.

The self proclaimed ‘sportswriter’, Carron Phillips, who some say has a history of race baiting, from the news outlet called Deadspin, took offense at how Holden was dressed with head gear and painted face and decided to not only attack Holding for his appearance, he also demanded that the NFL immediately take action and do something about this young fan. And here’s where media sleaze comes into play. Several pictures were taken of Holden. All but one showing the 2 colors his face was painted. Only One picture showed just the side painted black and not the red. So of course, Carron Phillips ran with that one and accused the child of racism for wearing ‘black face’– a nineyear-old. He wrote a scathing article about this ‘racist 9-year-old’ saying quote “he found a way to hate Black people and Native Americans at the same time”. He then continued to smear Holden. The story hit pretty much every news outlet in the country and even spread part way around the world. But not for the reason that Phillips probably hoped.

The response and the backlash was massive against what that writer did and against all those other media outlets that ran with it as written without even checking the facts.

This type of stirring the pot and sensationalism is what so much of the news media has become in today’s world. There are reporters who have no hesitation about smearing someone or something that they don’t like, even if it’s a 9-year-old child just having a great time at a football game. Some, like that reporter, will look for any angle to scream

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

racism whether it’s there or not.

Something that should be made crystal clear to everyone in the media and every other race baiter: This is America and, as Americans, we have this beautiful thing so lacking in most of the rest of the world.

It’s called ‘freedom’. That freedom gives us the right to say whatever we want and wear whatever we want.

And yes, people also have the right to be ‘offended’. Well, be offended all you want. As it turns out, Holden himself is Native American. But that shouldn’t matter. We can ALL paint our faces, we can wear Indian

clothing if we so choose, and we can support our favorite sports teams in any peaceful way we want. To those who might take offense, I’ll quote the great Candace Owens: “life’s tough, wear a helmet”. But never EVER try to deprive Americans of our rights.

To his credit, Young Holden Armenta, when asked if after all the controversy his appearance caused, would he continue to show up to cheer on his favorite team looking as he did, he said with a cheerful smile – “yup”.

God bless this kid, his supportive family and the millions of Americans who have his back.

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December 7, 2023

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.

Diamond Baseball Holdings buys WooSox The Worcester Red Sox announced Tuesday afternoon that the team will be sold to Diamond Baseball Holdings -- a corporation based in NYC that owns 26 minor league baseball teams across the country. Diamond will buy out the majority of shares from the ownership group, though a few who are part of the ownership group will be retained as such. Details haven’t been made clear regarding ownership stakes following the transaction, though it’s expected to be complete before the end of 2023.

The tents may be gone, but concerns stick around Mass. and Cass remains tent free

as a result of several law enforcement agencies involved in keeping it that way, but there are concerns about the impact such a presence has on people seeking services for substance use disorders and mental health care. WBUR’s Deborah Becker looks at recent arrest numbers from the Mass. and Cass area and speaks with advocates about how they worry people trying to stay away from the “harassment” they face in that area from law enforcement will prompt them to stop getting the help they need.

NCAA’s Baker tees up direct payments from schools to athletes NCAA President Charlie Baker wants top-tier colleges to be able

to pay student athletes directly, a major policy shift that would clear the way for some athletes to receive annual stipends of at least $30,000 annually from their schools. The former Bay State governor plans to flesh out the idea — meant to address concerns that have arisen since the arrival of name, image and likeness deals and the transfer portal that has seen many athletes switch schools to chase good endorsement deals — at a Vegas sports business event today.

Trial to find if former state police lieutenant stole overtime funds Daniel J. Griffin, the former supervisor of a special traffic unit, and his sergeant are accused of

leading a scheme within their unit in which numerous troopers collected over $130,000 for traffic enforcement shifts they didn’t work. Emails presented to jurors in court Tuesday show that he acknowledged federal requirements tied to the grant money he’s accused of taking. Multiple troopers have already testified for the prosecution under immunity grants, and the trial resumes today.

Norfolk DA reacts to word of federal probe into Read case Norfolk County District Attorney Michael Morrissey is seeking to downplay the news that the FBI has opened an inquiry into his office’s handling of the controver-

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Virtual Public Meeting

804 E. 7th Street January

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6:00 PM -7: 30 PM

Zoom Link: bit.ly/3uq27oS Toll Free: (833) 568 - 8864 Meeting ID: 161 050 7622

Project Description: The Notice of Project Change (NPC) proposes the conversion of the existing 3-storybuilding into a residential building with sixteen (16) residential units and sixteen (16) 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

Close of Comment Period: 01/10/2024

BostonPlans.org

@BostonPlans

Teresa Polhemus, Executive Director/Secretary

December 7, 2023

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SOUTHBOSTONTODAY • www.southbostontoday.com

Resident Parking Policy in South Boston, 7 Nights a Week Dear Chief Franklin-Hodge and Commissioner Gove, We are writing in regards to our current parking crisis in South Boston, and respectfully requesting that the Boston Transportation Department please work closely with the South Boston Elected Officials and our neighbors to adjust the current parking restrictions and attempt to alleviate one of the more pressing quality of life issues in our community. After years of feedback from my neighbors at civic meetings and elsewhere, we are calling for the City of Boston to implement a 1-year Pilot Program of Resident Parking only, 7 nights a week, from 6pm-10am throughout South Boston. We make this recommendation for many reasons; namely, in the interest of fairness to residents in different neighborhoods within South Boston, due to the unprecedented growth we’ve experienced for decades, future development proposals on the horizon, and an imbalance of currently issued South Boston parking stickers and available parking spaces.

Moreover, the constant presence of out-of-state plates and vehicles without a parking sticker, our proximity to downtown, the growth of the South Boston Waterfront, and industrial areas - these all contribute to the parking crunch felt by tax paying residents who are playing by the rules. In addition, these issues only become more exacerbated with South Boston having developed over many years into as much a destination for young people on the weekends as Downtown and Faneuil Hall; while, at the very same time, there are both no resident parking restrictions in place when this influx of cars arrive on the weekends, and our Parking Enforcement lacks sufficient staffing levels to deal with issues like illegal parking in handicap spots, MBTA bus stops, blocking driveways, and double-parking along Broadway.

This makes it even more difficult, especially in the winter months, for residents to leave their homes every Thursday to Sunday evening for a youth sports game, to go to a show, or enjoy a nice night out for dinner.

As you know, we have many reports from every part of Southie when it comes to parking spots on our streets being filled by cars without parking

stickers and out-of-state plates during the week, nevermind the weekend.

Neighbors have called attention to our Boston Public School (BPS) lots having become a magnet for folks that don’t want to play by the rules like everyone else, update their registration, and get a parking sticker. Residents become all the more frustrated when they who take their kids to hockey at the Murphy Rink, take care of an elderly parent, or work a late shift and often come home driving around for 45 minutes and hoping to hit the lottery for a space to open, while they see vehicles with New Jersey or Connecticut plates parked in a BPS schoolyard. We recently advocated to make BPS lots resident parking only to act as a deterrent and not encourage those who don’t want to play by the rules. For context, the Gate of Heaven Neighborhood Association subsequently informed us that out of 78 cars at the Excel High lot overnight one evening, only 16 had a South Boston Resident Parking Permit.

For the most part, parking signs in South Boston currently indicate that residents can park from Monday to Friday, 6pm to 10am. As a result, starting from Friday morning at 10am until Monday evening at 6pm, cars without a sticker or out of state plates take advantage and park for the weekend. Some folks are able to park Friday morning at 10am, catch an uber to Logan, and go on vacation for a few days. However, approximately a decade ago, the City of Boston implemented a program with then District 2 Councilor Bill Linehan to have resident parking 7 nights per week in City Point, ranging from L Street to Farragut Road. For nearly 6 years, neighbors and civic organizations across South Boston have emphasized to us that it is time for their area to have the same resident parking policy as well- and we continue to agree with them. In the interest of fairness, whether you live in the St. Vincent’s area of Southie, Gate of Heaven, Cityside, Dorchester Heights, City Point, Andrew Square, West Broadway, Fort Point, or a neighbor in our Boston Housing Authority Developments at Mary Ellen McCormack, Old Colony, West Broadway or the West 9th St Apts- resident parking should be enforced 7 nights a week.

We have experienced unprecedented

growth for decades in South Boston, with many large scale projects also currently in the pipeline such as Washington Village, 776 Summer Street, Mary Ellen McCormack, On the Dot, 244 A Street, and nearby Dorchester Bay City.

We have absorbed a significant number of Article 80 large and small multifamily projects, while we continue to advocate for sufficient parking and restricting resident parking permits for these buildings to prevent an overflow of cars that would worsen the parking crisis for current residents. There is more development being proposed that would essentially bring the South Boston Waterfront all the way to First Street, with a life science building approved on First Street, a hotel on Cypher Street without parking approved behind the Convention Center, along with the MCCA D Street parcels and the Oxford Pappas proposal going through their processes. Resident parking is also currently not available on many areas of First Street.

For context, it is also worth noting that after both South Boston civic groups and our offices advocated for a study of the parking data in recent years, and a recent Boston Herald article from July 11th also highlightedBTD informed us that in an area that included the majority of South Boston, there were 28,900 active resident parking permits and only 10,600 on-street parking spaces. That is unsustainable.

But since that time, BTD has recently also renewed resident parking permits automatically for a second time without verifying proof of residence. This would essentially create the possibility that someone may have moved out of the city in 2020 or 2021, and they may park without penalty in Boston until nearly 2026. It is our opinion that especially when we consider all of these aforementioned quality of life issues and recent data, this is a very dangerous precedent to set. We are now in a much different place than we were during the pandemic, and it is critical that the city once again requires residents to provide proof of residence to obtain a resident parking permit upon renewal. We also need an audit of our existing resident parking stickers to work to remove those who no longer reside in the city.

We realize that not everyone will agree with this proposal, including many of

our constituents that will highlight the need for us to explore caregiver or visitor passes and zones; however, the status quo is unacceptable. The people of South Boston have been told at development and abutters meetings for years that everyone will take the MBTA or use ridesharing companies for transportation and the impact on parking will be limited; yet, the abundance of parking available on holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas tell us otherwise every year. As our city encourages use of public transportation and other means, however, there should be no issue with the residents of South Boston and their elected officials advocating for our resident parking policy to also reflect that we would like to address the additional vehicles that bring traffic and congestion, the difficulties for residents to find a parking space, and the negative impacts to pedestrian safety from speeding cars with drivers unfamiliar with our roads.

In the final analysis, it is no longer tenable for the absence of an updated 7 nights per week resident parking permit only policy, or the enforcement it requires, and it is critical to help protect the tax paying residents of South Boston from both the unsustainable parking crisis or the aforementioned quality of life issues that occur every weekend for residents, including our seniors and persons with disabilities.

Please note we view this proposal as a compromise, with many neighbors calling attention to other neighborhoods in Boston that are also in close proximity to Downtown having a 24/7 resident parking policy. We hope that the BTD will work closely with our community, and improve the quality of life for our South Boston neighbors.

We look forward to working with you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices directly.

Sincerely, Ed Flynn Boston City Councilor, District 2 Michael F. Flaherty Boston City Councilor At-Large

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I Was Just Thinking…

I

by Kevin Devlin

was just thinking that it’s starting to look a lot like Christmas as we come closer to that wonderful day.

When I was a little boy, I can still remember that crucial Christmas Eve when I saw my mom and dad sneak by my bedroom with gifts from Santa. It was a devastating moment in my life because I immediately realized my guy from the North Pole wasn’t who I thought he was. Yet this revelation was only a momentary setback which didn’t crush my belief in the spirit of Christmas.

Why? Because Christmas is a time to rejoice in the gift of life and the birth of Jesus Christ.

It’s a time to embrace family and friends and tell them how much we love them without conditions.

For the past forty-plus years, each holiday season, my wife Mary and I, without fail, watch It’s a Wonderful Life (1946) starring Jimmy Stewart and Donna Reed, along with the 1938 and best version of Scrooge featuring Reginal Owen as Ebenezer Scrooge. These two classic Christmas stories always bring tears to our eyes, and as the saying goes, ‘it never gets old.’

“I’ve always looked at Christmas as a good time,” said Fred, Scrooge’s nephew in the 1938 movie. “A kind, charitable, forgiving, pleasant time. It’s the only time people open their hearts freely. The only time when men and women seem to realize that all people are really members of the same family.

And that being members of the same family, they owe each other some measure of warmth and solace. And therefore, uncle, though it’s never put a scrap of gold or silver in my pockets, I believe it has done me good. And will do me good. And I

say God bless it!”

Enjoy Christmas with your family and friends. Cherish the gifts received and the experience felt when your gifts are opened by loved ones.

Share your favorite Christmas story with your children. Appreciate the food we are so fortunate to have on our tables. Raise your glasses filled with beer, wine or whatever beverage you prefer and toast family and friends looking down upon us from Heaven. Because this is a time in which we reflect on those who no longer walk among us, because we never forget our love for them. Our grandparents, our mothers and fathers, our brothers or sisters, uncles or aunts, as well as dear friends. We miss them all. We miss their smiles, their laughter, warmth and company.

We keep our memories of them alive in our minds, in our hearts, and by doing so, they forever live within us.

Toast those in your presence.

Toast to good health and long lives for your loved ones and for everyone else.

Toast to future Christmases, merry days, and continued happiness.

Enjoy the beautiful Christmas songs.

Embrace the words from my favorite Christmas song, O Holy Night, renew your hope, those words being “Truly He taught us to

December 7, 2023

love one another; His law is love and His gospel is peace.”

Embrace God, family, and country, as you momentarily close your eyes to give thanks.

Christmas is also a time of giving to those less fortunate than us, so if you can afford to do so, donate to your favorite charity.

It’s good for the soul.

And as you embrace the Christmas spirit of giving, kindness and love while bringing smiles to others, forget your worries and let the issues of the outside world momentarily fade away.

Because they will still be there when you, when we, return from this brief and merry journey of love, warmth, and solemnity we fondly call Christmas.

(On a final note, I was also just thinking that after three decades of writing articles for local papers in this wonderful city, I’m ready to focus on some other ongoing writing projects I’d like to see completed sooner rather than later. So, with that written, I’d like to wish all our readers a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. We have much to be merry and happy about, and much to be thankful for in this great country which is the beacon of Hope for the entire world.)

I Scream, You Scream, We All Scream for Girl Scout Cookies!

Girl Scouts in eastern Massachusetts is now selling Girl Scout Cookies; Support the next generation of women entrepreneurs

G

irl Scouts of Eastern Massachusetts kicks-off the 2024 Girl Scout Cookie season as Girl Scouts and their troops rally the community to support the world’s largest entrepreneurial program for girls. The annual cookie program will run through Friday, March 8th.

Consumers can support local Girl Scouts by purchasing their favorite cookie flavors including Thin Mints®, Caramel deLites®, Peanut Butter Patties®, Adventurefuls®, Peanut Butter Sandwich, Lemonades®, Trefoils®, Caramel Chocolate Chip (gluten-free and peanutfree), and Toast-Yay! ®.

“This is my favorite time of the year! I love seeing our Girl Scouts out developing their sales pitches

to sell Girl Scout Cookies,” stated Girl Scouts of Eastern Massachusetts CEO Barbara Fortier. “Our Girl Scout Cookie program provides our youth with the opportunity to build their entrepreneurial passions through customer service, marketing and sales skills. Many of our alum credit the Girl Scout Cookie Program as a steppingstone into leadership positions. When you purchase a box of cookies you are unboxing an array of opportunities for our Girl Scouts.”

The Girl Scout Cookie Program is the world’s largest entrepreneurial program for Girl Scouts. As a result, Girl Scouts obtain limitless barrier-breaking futures outside the box with transferable life skills. Girl Scouts can earn a variety of badges

and awards to develop valuable business skills including Cookie Business badges, Financial Literacy badges, Cookie Entrepreneur Family pins and Entrepreneur badges.

Girl Scout Cookies are $6 per package. There are many ways to support the Girl Scout Cookie pro-

gram this season: • If you know a registered Girl Scout, ask how you can purchase Girl Scout Cookies from them to support their goals.

• If you don’t know a Girl Scout, visit gsema.org/cookies to find a cookie booth (pop-up shop) near you to purchase cookies from a local Girl Scout troop, or to connect with a local troop’s online cookie shop to purchase cookies for a donation or shipment.

• Customers can make a purchase in-person or online and designate their purchase through our Cookie Share Donation program to benefit first responders and healthcare professionals, the military and veterans’ services organizations, local food pantries, and more.

December 7, 2023

MAYOR WU SIGNS FIVE-YEAR BOSTON POLICE CONTRACT

M

ayor Michelle Wu announced that a new fiveyear collective bargaining agreement has been ratified by the membership of the Boston Police Patrolmen’s Association (BPPA), the union representing the majority of Boston Police officers. Since the beginning of her administration, Mayor Wu has made it a priority to achieve reform within the Boston Police Department (BPD) through contract negotiations, delivering the highest standards of community policing to keep our residents safe

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SOUTHBOSTONTODAY • www.southbostontoday.com

and ensuring resources for the health and well-being of police officers and their families. The BPPA’s prior contract with the City of Boston expired on June 30, 2020. Although the City and BPPA had officially entered arbitration in April 2023, ultimately the parties reached an agreement across the negotiating table rather than through arbitration.

The ratification vote took place on Sunday, December 3, and Monday, December 4.

“I’m inspired and grateful everyday for the hard work and dedication

of our Boston Police officers across every neighborhood and community,” said Mayor Michelle Wu. “This groundbreaking contract is a major step forward in how Boston continues to set the highest standards for community policing and ensure resources for the health and well-being of our officers and their families.

I’m thankful to Commissioner Cox for his clear vision and strong leadership for our department, and to President Calderone and the BPPA for their partnership and shared commitment to our city.”

“I am proud to stand by an agreement between the BPPA and the City that recognizes the value that the men and women of the BPPA provide to the City every day,” said Boston Police Patrolmen’s Association President Larry Calderone. “I thank Mayor Wu and her administration for bargaining in good faith and for reaching an agreement that acknowledges the needs of the police officers who make Boston one of the safest cities in the country through their hard work and selfless service.”

“I am pleased we are able to come to an agreement with the BPPA. This agreement will compensate our officers for being part of the worldclass police department that we are and represents a joint commitment to work together to make sure that individuals who do not represent the value of our City are not a part of our Department,” said Boston Police Commissioner Michael Cox. “It has been an unprecedented few years for everyone. Throughout it all our police officers came to work every day fully committed to the people of Boston. Our officers have done tremendous work and it is because of their efforts and their willingness to partner with the citizens of Boston that our City remains one of the safest in America.”

The new agreement covers the period from July 1, 2020 - June 30, 2025, at a total five-year estimated cost of $82.3 million, or a 21% increase over the entire period. This is the first contract in decades to deliver significant operational reforms, and the cost is in line with the most continued on page 14

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The

Wine Guy

Time For Some Pinot Noir

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rown in France since at least the 13th century, Pinot Noir is now cultivated around the globe, in every country where wine is made. Its name, which means “black pine,” is a nod to the tight, pineconelike clusters that grow on the vine.

This tight formation makes it susceptible to mold and bacteria, so Pinot Noir does best in colder regions and responds well to diligent farming.

Depending on where it’s grown and the hand of the winemaker, Pinot Noir offers a wide range of styles, from light and elegant to bold and deeply extracted. More refined ver-

sions will feature polished tannins and flavors of cherry, milk chocolate, and orange peel, while bolder versions may showcase blackberry, coffee bean, and dried herb notes.

Depending on the intensity of flavor and tannic structure, Pinot Noir pairs with a wide range of dishes, including seared tuna, Peking duck, roast chicken, or grilled filet mignon.

Bouchard Père & Fils, 2018 Nuits Saint Georges, Burgundy, France, ($89.99). Bouchard Père & Fils has been producing fine wine in Burgundy for over three centuries. Joseph Bouchard began by purchasing vineyards in 1775 and in 1820 Bernard Bouchard acquired the iconic Château de Beaune originally built

by King Louis XI in the 15th century.

The 2018 Nuits Saint Georges is one of many wines they produce each vintage. It’s cherry-garnet colored with aromas of caramelized orange peel, dried black cherry, and ripe red raspberry. Soft and elegant in the mid palate, it offers flavors of cranberry, pomegranate, and brown baking spices. Drink now through 2035.

Goldeneye, 2019 Gowan Creek Vineyard Pinot Noir, Anderson Valley, California, ($79.99). Dan

and Margaret Duckhorn were among the first to recognize Anderson Valley as a perfect place to grow Pinot Noir and founded Goldeneye in 1996. Winemaker Kristen McMahan agrees. “There is a slower, more serene pace here in the Anderson Valley,” she says. “And more than almost any other region, there is a connection between the quality of the wines and the character of the valley.” The 2019 Gowan Creek Vineyard Pinot Noir is brilliant ruby colored in the glass with aromas of ripe red cherry, red raspberry, and a whiff of forest floor. It is well balanced with soft tannins and flavors of cherry, cranberry, pomegranate, and Christmas baking spices. Drink now or through 2029.

Bricoleur Vineyards, 2019 Estate Pinot Noir, Sonoma County California, ($175.00/magnum). This intriguing Pinot Noir is a blend of five different Pinot Noir clones that are vinified separately and then blended by winemaker Cary Gott to make an outstanding wine. For the wine geeks among us, the clones include clone 115, clone, 459, clone 777, Calera, and Swan. The wines are aged in 40 percent new French oak

December 7, 2023

and 60 percent neutral French oak. I tasted the 2019 out of magnum; it has aromas of pomegranate, black cherry, black olive spread, and cranberry that pave the way for flavors of cranberry, dried cherry, and caramelized fennel bulb. It is drinking perfectly right now but will bottle age for at least another 10 years in magnum.

Goldeneye ,2019 Gowan Creek Vineyard Pinot Noir, Anderson Valley, California.($79.99). Dan and Margaret Duckhorn were among the first to recognize Anderson Valley as a perfect place to grow Pinot Noir and founded Goldeneye in 1996. Winemaker Kristen McMahan agrees. “There is a slower, more serene pace here in the Anderson Valley,” she says. “And more than almost any other region, there is a connection between the quality of the wines and the character of the valley.” The 2019 Gowan Creek Vineyard Pinot Noir is brilliant ruby colored in the glass with aromas of ripe red cherry, red raspberry, and a whiff of forest floor. It is well balanced with soft tannins and flavors of cherry, cranberry, pomegranate, and Christmas baking spices. Drink now or through 2029.

Gate of Heaven Parish News All are welcome to come to the monthly Coffee and Conversation on Sunday, December 10th after the 9AM Mass In the Downstairs Hall at Gate of Heaven Church

On October 26, 2023, some 1800 guests from throughout the New England region gathered at the Omni Boston Hotel at the Seaport for The New England Council’s 2023 Annual Celebration. The highlight of the evening was the presentation of the 2023 New Englander of the Year Awards. First presented nearly 60 years ago, the award honors residents or natives of the New England states for their commitment and contributions in their fields of work, as well as their leadership and impact on the New England region’s quality of life and economy. This year, the Council was pleased to honor: • Latoyia Edwards, Anchor, NBC10 Boston & NECN • Dr. Jim O’Connell, President, Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program • Pamela D.A. Reeve, Chair of the Board, American Tower Corporation • The Honorable Martin J. Walsh, Executive Director, National Hockey League Players’ Association The Council is grateful to our 2023 Annual Celebration Co-Chairs, Katherine Craven, Chief Administrative and Financial Officer, Babson College, and Cain Hayes, President & CEO, Point32Health, as well as the dozens of sponsors (link) who made the evening such a tremendous success!

December 7, 2023

SOUTHBOSTONTODAY • www.southbostontoday.com

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South Boston’s Ed Hamilton Honored at Pearl Harbor - In Memoriam NOTE: In remembrance of Pearl Harbor Day, South Boston Today decided to run this story written several years ago about one of our community’s decorated veterans who was honored by the United States Navy at Pearl Harbor - Mr. Edward Hamilton. Ed served in the Navy at Pearl Harbor, on the Hawaiian Island of Oahu during WW ll. Ed Hamilton has since passed on but his memory will forever live in the hearts and minds of South Bostonians.

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SBT Staff Report

t was meant to be a beautiful family vacation on the Hawaiian Island of Oahu for Edward Hamilton and several members of his family. It turned out to be all of that and much more; a trip that will never be forgotten by any of them. Ed’s daughter Laura Hamilton McDonagh and her husband Colie McDonagh were there to celebrate 38 years of a beautiful marriage and would renew their vows on the beach. Joining them on vacation were Laura’s and Colie’s son Ross and his wife Christina. They planned it to be a combined vacation and anniversary celebration but even beyond that, Ed Hamilton, who will turn 90 in August wanted to visit Pearl Harbor where he served in the US Navy during WWII, as well as in 9 major battle areas in other parts of the Pacific.

On the family’s itinerary was a stop at the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center to observe a special event called ‘A Tribute to Military Families’, which is a way for visitors to learn more about the military and to connect with veterans, service members and their families. But when the Navy brass learned that they had a WWll Navy veteran who actually served at Pearl Harbor during that war among the crowd, it turn out to be much more than that (He served from 19421947).Now, Edwin Hamilton became the center of attraction and the Navy brass and the crowd itself loved it.

This was the first time Ed had been back to Pearl Harbor since 1946 and the return was emotional. He shared his experiences with the crowd and it was fascinating to all present. He carried a photo of part of his crew when he served aboard the USS Bennett; a destroyer. He carried that photo along with a picture of his late wife Melba Hamilton who passed on a few years ago. The band then played ‘Anchors Away’ in his honor; appropriate and very much appreciated by all. Ed was even asked to share details by one of the Navy’s historians and chaplains.

The local Honolulu news media got wind of the honored visitor on

board and interviewed Ed and his family and asked him to share more information of the time. He even appeared on the front page of Waikiki’s Hookele Newspaper. But it wasn’t just print media. Local TV and radio also picked up on it and ran with the story. And now, Ed Hamilton of South Boston became an instant and honored celebrity all over the island.

People who saw the broadcasts and the print stories would approach him along the board walks, beaches and in restaurants to shake his hand, thank him for his service and yes, there was even a request for autographs; all of which Ed just took in stride and continued to enjoy the family vacation.

But it didn’t stop there. He was congratulated in the various restaurants where he was told that his money was no good and the meals were on the house. And the hotel made it a point to treat Ed and his family like royalty and the visiting dignitary that

in a sense, he certainly was. In fact, the Hamilton/McDonagh family was overwhelmed with kindness and well wishes from one end of Oahu to the other wherever they went. It was apparent just how much Americans appreciate our veterans; members of the WWll Greatest Generation as well as all our this nation’s heroes.

Ed Hamilton has long been and still is a well-respected man about town with countless friends who happily exchange greetings with this good man where ever and whenever they see him. He has always been considered a good neighbor, a loyal South Bostonian and most important, a dedicated family man. So it’s not surprising that when the people of Hawaii got the chance to meet him personally, they too took a liking to him. He creditsand is grateful to his family for putting together this wonderful vacation since it’s long been his desire to return to Pearl Harbor someday. His daughter

Laura said the following when asked

by South Boston Today how she felt about the whole experience: “It’s something that will stay with all of us forever. Seeing how kind everyone was to my father really touched all of our hearts and we thank the Lord that this vacation went as it did. One of the most important things in life is for family members to honor their parents and it was definitely an honor to be able to travel back to Pearl Harbor with my Dad”.

When asked how he felt about the experience he stated simply “Coming back to Pearl Harbor brought mixed emotions; the memories were both difficult and fond. But, most of all it was fun.

Ed Hamilton made such an impression with the United States Navy Brass that he has received an official invitation to return next year for Pearl Harbor Day. There are many there who are hoping he chooses to do just that.

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SOUTHBOSTONTODAY • www.southbostontoday.com

December 7, 2023

Neighbors, Christmas Carolers and Community, Oh My!

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he neighbors and residents on East Fourth Street were celebrating the holiday spirit in style, Southie style, last Saturday. This tight group of neighbors and friends had food, cookies and a snow machine for all to partake as The Songful Artists Carolers entertained walking from home to home. Merry Christmas East Fourth Street!

December 7, 2023

SOUTHBOSTONTODAY • www.southbostontoday.com

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Laboure Christmas Shoppe Celebrated The Big Weekend Opening

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ast Weekend, a wonderland of gifts awaited the Christmas shopper at the Laboure Center at 275 West Broadway, South Boston. It is a much-anticipated destination for any gift buyer with an eye toward quality and its accompanying affordable range of prices.

Gift basket raffles, holiday decorations, Nutcrackers, Gingerbread

Bread decor, tree trimmings, decorative Christmas trees, festive candles, baby items, crafts of all kinds and of course stuffed Santa Clauses.

Catholic Charities Boston’s annual Christmas Shoppe, with its popup store is a longstanding tradition in which Massachusetts retail stores like TJ Maxx and local boutiques donate Christmas décor to be resold from

Labouré at a discount. The shoppers come from all over Boston and even beyond, and the South Boston community turns out in support as well.

This is also a chance to see old friends and catch up as you shop. Tradition and a vehicle to raise money for Catholic Charities programs and its good work are the key elements of the Shoppe’s annual success.

A shout out to the Christmas carolers and the dedicated staff and volunteers for bringing this enjoyable and festive event to the community each year.

The shoppe will be open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. this week until inventory runs out.

Please enter through the D St parking lot entrance. For more information, call 617-464-8500.

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SOUTHBOSTONTODAY • www.southbostontoday.com

his second coming at a future time.

South Boston Catholic Academy News toCatholics consider all three comings

ECC enjoying the Fall weather!

Now we are all getting ready for Christmas!

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t was a beautiful Fall Day at our South Boston Catholic Academy Early Childhood Center Playground. The Pre-schoolers (Toddlers and K0 students) enjoyed the golden orange leaves falling from their special tree, in their very own playground, that gives them shade on the sunny days!

Now all the students at SBCA and ECC are getting ready for Advent, Christmas and the winter season. This past Sunday, December 3, was the First Sunday of Advent. In the Catholic Church, the Advent season reminds us about the importance of Jesus Christ in our lives, prepares us to celebrate Jesus Christ’s birth at Christmas, and refers

when they celebrate Advent.

The Advent wreath is traditionally made of evergreens in a circle, symbolizing God’s unending love. It includes four candles, three purple and one pink. Each candle specifically symbolizes the Christian concepts of hope, peace, joy and love, with these candles being lit subsequently throughout each week of the Advent season starting with the First Sunday of Advent leading up to the Fourth Sunday of Advent and then it is

December 7, 2023

Christmas. The first graders in Ms. Byrne’s class made their very own special Advent Wreath to bring home to their families. They also have a classroom Advent Song: “See the candles burning bright, one by one, each week we light. Advent is a time to wait. Not quite time to celebrate.

When this waiting time is through, it’s Christmas joy for me and you”.

Great job grade 1B! New families are welcome to email our admissions team at admissions@sbcatholicadacademy.org for more info. about South Boston Catholic Academy.

December 7, 2023

SOUTHBOSTONTODAY • www.southbostontoday.com

St. Peter Academy

Decorating the West Broadway Christmas Tree

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he weather on Monday was perfect for our annual trip to the West Broadway Christmas Tree. Every year the students of St. Peter Academy decorate ornaments and enjoy taking the walk through our neighborhood to hang them on the Christmas Tree. All the ornaments came out beautifully as

the students decorated them with their own unique ideas. We have also been busy preparing for Breakfast with Santa Breakfast and Holiday Show. Students have been practicing their songs and dancing. The month of December goes by quickly and we are learning and enjoying every minute of it! Please join us at

the Ironworkers Hall on December 10th at 11:00 am for Breakfast with Santa and the Holiday Show!

St. Peter Academy is accepting applications for the current and upcoming school year. St. Peter Academy is an independent, community-based private school and serves students from ages 15 months through grade 6. SPA is currently accepting applications for the limited spaces available in the year-round toddler program (beginning at age 15 months) and

13 for students in Pre-K (School Year and Full Year Programs), Kindergarten and grades 1-6.

Financial Aid Available. Two Scholarships will be offered this year for applicants for Grades 1 through 6. You may request scholarship information from the Front Office (spa@stpeteracademy.com). Appointments for individual virtual tours can be made by contacting Maria Blasi, at 617-268-0750 or by emailing spa@StPeterAcademy.com.

14 Credit Cards Skimmers cont. from front page

The first step to defending yourself from these scammers is to understand more about them.

What Are Skimmers?

Skimmers are tiny, malicious card readers hidden within legitimate card readers that harvest data from every person who swipes their cards.

After letting the hardware sip data for some time, a thief will stop by the compromised machine to pick up the file containing all the stolen data. With that information, he can create cloned cards or just commit fraud. The scariest part is that skimmers often don’t prevent the ATM or credit card reader from functioning properly, making them that much harder to detect.

Getting inside ATMs is difficult, so ATM skimmers sometimes fit over existing card readers. Most of the time, the attackers also place a hidden camera somewhere in the vicinity in order to record personal identification numbers, or PINs, used to access accounts. The camera may be in the card reader, mounted at the top of the ATM, or even in the ceiling. Some criminals go as far as installing fake PIN pads over the actual keyboards to capture the PIN directly, bypassing Wu continued from page 7

recent previous contracts (which did not include operational reforms): • FY21-FY25 - 21.0% over 5 years (a 4.2% average annual increase); negotiated • FY17-FY20 - 16.1% over 4 years (a 4.0% average annual increase); negotiated • FY11-FY16 - 25.4% over 6 years (a 4.2% average annual increase); arbitration award Cost of Living Adjustments The contract includes the following base wage increases to ensure officers are paid fairly: • Effective first pay period July 2020 (FY21) - 2.0% • Effective first pay period July 2021 (FY22) - 1.5% • Effective first pay period July 2022 (FY23) - 2.0% • Effective first pay period July 2023 (FY24) - 1.0% • Effective first pay period July 2024 (FY25) - 2.5% Discipline

SOUTHBOSTONTODAY • www.southbostontoday.com

December 7, 2023

the need for a camera.

This picture is of a real-life skimmer in use on an ATM. Do you see that weird, bulky yellow bit? That’s the skimmer. This one is easy to spot because it has a different color and material than the rest of the machine, but there are other tell-tale signs. Below the slot where you insert your card are raised arrows on the machine’s plastic housing. You can see how the grey arrows are very close to the yellow reader housing, almost overlapping. That is a sign a skimmer was installed over the existing reader since the real card reader would have some space between the card slot and the arrows.

ATM manufacturers haven’t taken this kind of fraud lying down. Newer ATMs boast robust defenses against tampering, sometimes including radar systems intended to detect objects inserted or attached to the ATM. However, one researcher was able to use an ATM’s onboard radar device to capture PINs as part of an elaborate scam.

From Skimmers to Shimmers When the US banks finally caught up with the rest of the world and started issuing chip cards, it was a

major security boon for consumers.

These chip cards, or EMV cards, offer more robust security than the painfully simple magstripes of older payment cards. But thieves learn fast, and they’ve had years to perfect attacks in Europe and Canada that target chip cards.

Instead of skimmers, which sit on top of the magstripe readers, shimmers are inside the card readers.

These are very, very thin devices and cannot be seen from the outside.

When you slide your card in, the shimmer reads the data from the chip on your card, much the same way a skimmer reads the data on your card’s magstripe.

There are a few key differences, however. For one, the integrated security that comes with EMV means that attackers can only get the same information they would from a skimmer. In his blog, security researcher Brian Krebs explains that “Although the data that is typically stored on a card’s magnetic stripe is replicated inside the chip on chip-enabled cards, the chip contains additional security components not found on a magnetic stripe.”

Combating this type of attack is ultimately up to the companies who run

these stores. Below are a few things you can do to protect yourself: 1. Use Security Software Botezatu suggested that consumers use security suite software on their computers, which he said can detect malicious code and prevent you from entering your information.

2. Use a Fake Credit Card Number Online You can avoid entering your credit card information altogether by using a virtual credit card. These are dummy credit card numbers that are linked to your real credit card account.

3. Activate Alerts for Your Credit Card Accounts Some banks will send a push alert to your phone each time your debit card is used. This is handy since you can immediately identify bogus purchases.

Stay Aware to Stop Credit Card Scammers Pay attention to your credit card statements and act quickly if you find charges you don’t recognize. If something doesn’t feel right about an ATM or a credit card reader, don’t use it. Whenever you can, use the chip instead of the strip on your card. Your bank account will thank

For the first time, this contract designates a list of offenses that will not be eligible for arbitration as a pathway to overturn discipline or termination issued by the department. An officer will face discipline without arbitration if they are indicted for, or if a sustained Internal Affairs finding is issued and upheld for, a defined list of offenses.

These offenses are: indecent assault and battery on child under age of 14; assault and battery to collect loan; indecent assault and battery on a person with an intellectual disability; felony for hire; wanton or reckless behavior creating a risk of serious bodily injury or sexual abuse to a child; mayhem; assault with intent to murder or maim; attempt to murder; murder; armed robbery; assault with intent to rob or murder; use of firearms while committing a felony; stealing by confining or putting in fear; rape; rape of child; rape of a child during commission of certain offenses or by use of force; rape of a

child through use of force by certain previously convicted offenders; rape and abuse of child; rape and abuse of child aggravated by age difference between defendant and victim or by when committed by mandated reporters; rape and abuse of child by certain previously convicted offenders; assault with intent to commit rape; assault of child with intent to commit rape; extortion; kidnapping (weapons; child under age 16); drug trafficking; drugging persons for kidnapping; enticement of child under age 18 to engage in prostitution; human trafficking or commercial sexual activity; hate crimes (MGL c.

22C s. 32); and hate crimes involving assault or battery for the purpose of intimidation (weapons; punishment) (MGL c. 265 s. 39).

Paid Details New Highest-Priority Detail Category Boston Police officers previously were the only eligible personnel to perform paid details for events or

construction sites that involve traffic disruption on City roadways, but many priority details went unfilled and had to be covered by mandated overtime at significant cost to the department and the City. To ensure the highest priority traffic details are covered to keep traffic flowing and to keep road users safe, the City will now categorize details by priority.

Highest priority details, or Type 1 Details, are events and activities that pose a substantial risk to public safety, including major events with anticipated attendance over 5,000 people; utility or construction details at major arteries, in busy intersections, or in areas with heavy traffic; or areas due to an emergency.

These kinds of details will be filled first before any others and offer higher hourly compensation. All other details will be considered Type 2 Details and compensated at the existing rate.

Expanded Personnel to Fill continued on page 15

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Wu continued from page 14

paper system used to assign details in each police district, the City now has the legal authority to implement a technology based platform (i.e., electronic, web based or app based programs) for the administration, management and assignment of paid details across the city. Also, after fully implementing this transition in technology and administration, the sworn officers performing those duties will be reassigned for other needed police work.

Medical Leave When contract negotiations began, roughly 10% of BPPA members had been out on medical leave, resulting in staffing challenges that have required forced overtime to cover shifts. The process to address extended medical leave through arbitration is long and complex.

Under the new contract, when there is disagreement between an officer’s doctor and BPD’s doctor regarding an officer’s ability to return to work after being out on leave, instead of engaging in arbitration, an Independent Medical Examiner will determine the employee’s fitness to return to light duty. This will simplify and streamline the process.

Union Release The contract will reduce the number of officers attending to union business while being on duty and paid by the City. Specifically, the number of officers is now reduced

to 45 shift representatives of the Association–down from 54. For regular Executive Board meetings, the City agrees to recognize no more than 10 shift representatives.

Career Awards Retention Program Effective July 2023, this contract establishes a new Transitional Career Awards Program for Police Officers with five, ten, fifteen, twenty, and twenty-five years of experience while eliminating the current Cumulative Risk Enhancement Adjustments career awards program. This brings police officer’s career advancement opportunities in line with those of the Boston Fire Department as a tool for retention at the department.

Educational Incentive Plan Boston Police officers receive salary adjustments to reflect continuing education incentives. This contract increases the qualifying schools to include the University of Massachusetts System, Northeastern University, and Boston University, and increases the qualifying degrees to include Sociology, Psychology, and Public Administration–aligned with the skills and training to further enhance community policing and improve organizational management.

Collective bargaining with the BPPA during the Wu administration began in earnest in March 2022. Eleven bargaining sessions

took place between March and October of 2022. In late December 2022 the BPPA filed for arbitration. The state’s Joint Labor Management Council (JLMC) took jurisdiction of the case in late April 2023. There were sessions with the JLMC in September and October 2023. A tentative agreement was reached Friday, December 1, 2023 after a series of meetings over the course of last week, in which Mayor Wu was directly involved.

Now that the agreement has been ratified by the BPPA membership, tomorrow Mayor Wu will file an appropriation order with the Boston City Council to allocate the funding for the contract.

Last month, the City and the BPPA also reached an agreement on needed operational reform for centralized booking. Beginning in November, as part of BPD’s increased enforcement in the area of Massachusetts Avenue and Melnea Cass Boulevard, the Department is able to transport and book people at the Sheriff’s Department facility on Nashua Street—where there are dedicated supports for medical care, food, and supervision—rather than at district stations. The City’s goal is to implement this Citywide and will continue its negotiations with the other police unions to expand the program.

Window continued from page 4

require significant infrastructure updates in and around the town of just 2,000 people

have been able to “meaningfully” present her case or challenge the allegation about her conduct come meeting time.

Harvard, MIT presidents speak before Congress on antisemitism On Tuesday at a hearing before Congress, Harvard and MIT presidents, among others, condemned the Hamas attacks on Israel and defended their campus responses to antisemitism and protests. The House Committee on Education and the Workforce provided examples its representatives believed showed proof of antisemitism on each campus. The hearing touched on the reality of protecting free speech while protecting students and faculty on college campuses, as well as the role higher education institutions play in shaping ideas of those on their campuses.

All Details If details go unfilled by Boston Police officers, the open detail shifts can be offered to Peace Officers Standards and Training (POST) Commission certified officers, including Boston Police Department retirees, Boston Housing Authority Police officers, and college/university police officers. After details are offered to these groups, Boston Municipal Protective Services Officers and Sergeants and contracted civilian personnel will be offered the opportunity to accept the detail shifts. Opening up the detail system to ensure that other workers can perform traffic control will ensure better coverage of details throughout Boston and safer, smoother traffic flow on our streets. The opportunity for more workers to perform details also creates economic opportunity throughout Boston’s neighborhoods as trained personnel will have opportunities to earn income through detail work.

Eliminating Double-Booking of Details This contract ends the practice of allowing officers who finish a detail early to start another detail, preventing the accumulation of double pay for the same period of time.

Streamlining Administration of Detail Assignment Additionally, instead of the current

sial prosecution of Karen Read on murder charges. Morrissey said the probe likely started months ago, before Rachael Rollins resigned as US Attorney, even though news of the probe was first reported on Monday by Fox 25.

In Leverett, Yankee Candle estate could become populationdoubling development Officials in Leverett are bracing for the arrival of a massive development proposal to build as many as 700 housing units on the sprawling estate of the late founder of Yankee Candle. Scott Merzbach of the Daily Hampshire Gazette reports that any development on the estate, which is for sale for $23 million, would likely

The judge agrees with suspended O’Brien — for now Superior Court Judge Debra Squires-Lee agreed with suspended Cannabis Control Commission Chairwoman Shannon O’Brien on Tuesday, passing her motion for a restraining order and blocking Treasurer Deborah Goldberg from holding a 1 p.m. meeting that day. Said meeting could have led to the firing of O’Brien, to which O’Brien claimed to be “smeared by the actions” of Goldberg, according to a statement she made Tuesday.

Squires-Lee made the decision on the basis that O’Brien would not

The new police union contract, broken down Members of the Boston Police Patrolmen’s Association approved the new contract Monday night, signing off on changes including provisions relating to departmental discipline, extended medical leave and paid detail work. This is the first collective bargaining agreement with the police union to include major changes to departmental operations, according to Boston Mayor Michelle Wu, and the president of BPPA called the contract “fair and equitable” to those in uniform as policing evolves.

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December 7, 2023

This week,

Danny shared his thoughts on the College Football Playoff’s controversial final rankings:

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believe the College Football Playoff selection committee got it wrong. But not the way everyone is yelling about.

The 13-person committee made headlines this week by revealing their final rankings for the fourteam College Football Playoff, which begins with the semifinals on New Year’s Day. Needless to say, those final rankings were quite controversial.

Michigan was No. 1, Washington was No. 2, Texas was No. 3, and Alabama was No. 4.

Two teams were bounced out of the top four altogether: Georgia, and Florida State. Georgia had been the No. 1 team in the country for weeks, but they lost to No. 8 Alabama in the SEC Championship last weekend.

Because of that loss, No. 8 Alabama bounced up to No. 4.

And because Alabama bounced up to No. 4, No. 7 Texas bounced up to No. 3 after winning the Big 12 Championship last weekend.

Texas beat a No. 3 Alabama team back in September.

Texas and Alabama are both 12-1.

Which leads me into the controversy that’s running through the nation: How did undefeated Florida State get ousted from being the No. 4

ranked team after winning the ACC Championship last weekend?

Florida went from No. 4 down to No. 5, with Georgia ending up being No. 6 in the final rankings.

The reason for Florida State’s drop? Their star quarterback Jordan Travis suffered a seasonending leg injury a few weeks ago, and that was something the selection committee took into consideration as they tried to pick “the four best teams.”

Florida State’s snub has left people all across the football world shouting from the rooftops, “Why even play the games!”

And ok, I understand what you’re saying. If you’re the No. 4 team in the country and you win your conference championship game to seal the deal on a perfect 13-0 season, then you would think it’d be a no-brainer to at least remain in that No. 4 spot and get into the playoff. I get it.

But, the selection committee has a duty to, again, pick the “four best teams.” And without Travis as their quarterback — even after beating No. 14 Louisville in the ACC Championship — Florida State just isn’t one of the four best teams in the country.

Sorry if that ruffles some feathers, but it’s the cold hard truth. And so, I actually don’t really understand why it was all that controversial in the first place.

If it was a system based on win percentage and standings, then I could see a real reason for the backlash. But it’s not. And because it’s not, I actually think the selection committee made the right decision to leave Florida State out of the playoffs.

But that doesn’t mean I agree with them on everything.

I’m a little confused as to why my gripe isn’t shared by more people.

And that gripe is: Georgia should be in over Texas.

Georgia had been the No. 1 team in the country in all but two weeks of the entire season (Weeks 10 and 11), and were No. 1 in the final three weeks of the season, leading up to their loss to Alabama in the SEC Championship last weekend. That loss, by the way, was their only loss of the season.

The Bulldogs are the reigning back-to-back national champions, and a loss to Alabama in the SEC Championship is going to knock them out of the College Football Playoff entirely? I could see if they

got knocked down to No. 4, but to be ousted from the whole thing is absolutely bonkers to me.

By doing this, the selection committee is contradicting itself. Because when they oust Florida State, they’re saying they take the talent of the team under consideration while picking “the four best teams.” So, if you take Georgia’s talent under consideration, how in the world do you say they’re not one of the four best teams in the country right now, even after a three-point loss to an Alabama team that you’re now saying is one of the four best teams in the country?

It makes no sense.

Texas should be out, and Georgia should be in. And this should be a no-brainer. Yet, all anybody wants to talk about is how Florida State got screwed by the selection committee.

Texas shouldn’t have lost to Oklahoma, who finished No. 12 with a 10-2 record. Was that loss not taken into account?

I just don’t get it.

Florida State got screwed over by a horrible injury. But Georgia was the team that got screwed over by the selection committee.

Follow Danny on instagram @ DannyPicard.

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December 7, 2023

SPORTS TODAY PATS LOSE FIVE STRAIGHT, TURN TO ZAPPE AGAIN IN WEEK 14

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SBT Staff

efense hasn’t been the problem for the New England Patriots. In their last three games, the Patriots have allowed a combined 26 points, and haven’t allowed more than 10 points in any of those three games.

Last Sunday at Gillette Stadium against the Los Angeles Chargers, the Pats’ defense allowed just six points — two second-quarter field goals —

Tweet of the Week

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WHAT TO WATCH NFL THURSDAY, DEC. 7 WEEK 14 New England at Pittsburgh (-6) 8:15 P.M. PRIME SUNDAY, DEC. 10 LA Rams at Baltimore (-7.5) 1 P.M. FOX Seattle at San Francisco (-10.5) 4:05 P.M. FOX Buffalo at Kansas City (-2.5) 4:25 P.M. CBS Philadelphia at Dallas (-3.5) 8:20 P.M. NBC MONDAY, DEC. 11 Tennessee at Miami (-13.5) 8:15 P.M. ESPN Green Bay at NY Giants (+6.5) 8:15 P.M. ABC NCAAF SATURDAY, DEC. 9 Army vs Navy (+2.5) 3 P.M. CBS

and still lost, by a final score of 6-0.

It was the type of game that’ll put you to sleep. And it was certainly a game that Bailey Zappe and the Patriots’ offense would like to forget.

“Some missed opportunities here today,” said Patriots coach Bill Belichick after the loss. “I thought all the guys played really hard. We moved the ball, but we’re on a long field. Just really didn’t do a good job of field position. Couldn’t play the complementary game that we needed to play. Chargers did a couple times, got their six points, and obviously that was enough. Just got to do a better job. We’ve talked about it all year, making plays in critical situations that we need to make. That’s really about it. Multiple plays you can point to on that. In the end, just obviously wasn’t enough. We’ve got to find a way to make those.”

Zappe made the start over Mac Jones against the Chargers. Zappe had replaced Jones off the bench four times already this season, before getting the starting nod last week.

The change was needed, but the results were the same. Zappe finished 13-of-25 for 141 pass yards. He didn’t turn the ball over, but he was sacked five times.

It was the Patriots’ fifth straight loss.

They are now 2-10 on the season, and are in line to make a top-three pick in the 2024 NFL Draft.

“Offense, it starts with me,” said Zappe is his press conference after Sunday’s loss to the Chargers. “I’ve got to make plays towards the end.

I’ve got to throw better balls. I’ve got to make the balls catchable, especially in conditions like today, wet ball, wet hands. I’ve got to throw the ball better. It starts with me on the offensive

RED SOX TRADE VERDUGO TO YANKEES n a rare trade between the Red Sox and Yankees on Tuesday, Boston sent 27-year-old outfielder Alex Verdugo to New York, in exchange for a trio of pitchers.

Those pitchers are 28-year-old righty reliever Greg Weissert, 23-year-old minor-league righty

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Richard Fitts, and 22-year-old minorleague righty Nicholas Judice.

Here’s a breakdown of the incoming pitchers, via the Red Sox’ press release: “Weissert, 28, posted a 4.05 ERA (9 ER/20.0 IP) in 17 games over five stints with the Yankees in 2023, while

also posting a 2.90 ERA (13 ER/40.1 IP) with 58 strikeouts and a .184 opponent batting average in 38 games for Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre.

Fitts, 23, was named 2023 Eastern League Pitcher of the Year, going 11-5 with a 3.48 ERA (59 ER/152.2 IP) and 163 strikeouts in 27 starts for Somer-

side in getting things going.

“Our defense is playing phenomenal,” added Zappe. “Like I’ve said multiple times, it starts with me as a quarterback on the offensive side.

I’ve got to do better. I’ve got to get us down there. I’ve got to get us in an opportunity to score points.

Taking sacks and doing all those things isn’t doing a good job of doing that. I’ve got to throw it better.

I’ve got to make smarter decisions.

Once I start doing that, then we’ll start scoring points.”

Zappe is expected to make the start again for the Patriots in Week 14, as they travel to Pittsburgh for Thursday Night Football. Mitch Trubisky will come off the bench to make the start for the Steelers, as Kenny Pickett is out with an ankle injury. Pittsburgh is still a six-point favorite. set, his first Double-A experience.

Judice, 22, was selected by the Yankees in the eighth round of the 2023 First-Year Player Draft.”

Verdugo was the key piece coming to Boston in the Mookie Betts trade before the 2020 season. Verdugo played four seasons with the Red Sox. In his 493 games with the Sox, Verdugo hit .281 with 43 home runs, 206 RBI, 124 doubles, a .338 on-base percentage, and an OPS of .761.