South Boston Today January 4 2024

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Healthy New Year’s T Resolutions for Children & Teens

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he start of a new year is a great time to help your children focus on forming good habits. Making New Year’s resolutions can be a fun way to do this!

As a pediatrician and mom of three kids, I know how important it is to set healthy goals with kids – and to be realistic about those goals. Kids also love having something to work toward. They can have fun keeping track on sticker charts or getting praise or rewards as they reach these goals, depending on their age.

Making resolutions together.

I encourage you to sit down with your kids and, together, pick maybe one or two goals they want to set as their New Year’s resolutions. If it’s too overwhelming to think of them as resolutions, then just talk about them as goals and make it fun.

Keep it fun!

If your 8-year-old meets that goal of reading every day for a week,

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January 4, 2024: Vol.12 Issue 1

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Where Learning Happens Twelve Months A Year!

A St Peter Academy education enables a child to develop confidence and self esteem, teaching him or her to embrace responsibility and to think critically as well as compassionately. Above all else, St Peter Academy fosters a love of learning. Provided with the ingredients for success, students are prepared for a lifetime of academic excellence, and they are motivated to pursue their spiritual, moral, and intellectual possibilities.

St Peter Academy is an independent private community based early childhood through grade 6 school dedicated to providing a high quality education to children of all faiths from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds.

We welcome the opportunity to have you visit St Peter Academy to see for yourself that ours is a unique and wonderful learning community.

Please Join Us! TODDLER - GRADE 6 Winter Open House Wednesday, January 24th 2024 9:00AM - 11:00AM / 3:00PM - 6:00PM St Peter Academy 371 West Fourth Street, South Boston, MA 02127 Telephone 617-268-0750 Email SPA@StPeterAcademy.com Website StPeterAcademy.com

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January 4, 2024

EDITORIAL

Suggestions For Politicians For A Better 2024

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he New Year is now upon us, and with the start of each new year, hopes are high that it will be better than the previous 12 months. Optimists will usually believe it will be and pessimists think the opposite. But we say, give it a chance. We can’t control all things that happen in our lives but that’s no reason not to try to help things improve.

Here at South Boston Today, we have some suggestions that we’d like to offer to our elected leaders that we believe would help set things in the right direction.

To Boston City Hall, you would make so many people happy if you’d put the brakes on any tax hikes, especially the property tax.

The US economy is hurting which is putting it nicely.

Many believe that the proper term for its condition would be to say it’s in shambles. When property taxes are raised or even kept at the current levels they are at, it not only affects the homeowners but the renters as well. Why not give working families a

break and lower those property taxes? It would be a major relief to so many who at this point in time, could really use that extra money to support their families.

We’re not really 100% sure who is responsible for the actual design of the mess that many city streets have become – we’re talking about all the confusing white lines that are ticking off drivers. But it would be nice if whoever did it and ran, would erase the maze they created and start over.

If the suspected goal is to discourage people from owning cars and turning Boston into ‘bikes only urban paradise’, it won’t work. As furious as drivers are becoming with this latest ridiculous ‘green effort’, people will not give up their cars and there will never –ever be enough people riding bikes to justify what’s being done. And have you forgotten that not everyone is able to ride a bike? And virtually no one can ride a bike in 2 feet of snow.

Oh, and one more suggestion for city hall. You have every right to invite or not

invite whomever you please to your “holiday parties”, but probably not using taxpayer funded buildings and funds to do it if you are going to exclude people of certain races. It screams hypocrisy when you claim to want to bring all people together and unite the city and then throw a ‘no white people allowed’ bash. It also smells of racism.

Suggestions for the Massachusetts legislature: This state has more than enough gun laws. The sweeping and unconstitutional new law being supported

by most Democrats will be tossed out by the US Supreme Court if it passes the legislature and signed by the governor. It is opposed by the Massachusetts Chiefs of Police Association, it will cost the taxpayers millions in court cost, and it wouldn’t do anything to stop gun violence if it ever did become law.

So please, stop wasting our tax dollars on a battle you know you’ll lose in the end and every other useless proposal all for the goal of making you ‘feel good’ (drivers licenses

for illegal’s) and attempting to appear like you’re doing something to solve problems when in many cases, you are not. And to the governor – Healy: You opened the flood gates in this state inviting thousands of illegals to come here. And then, they overwhelmed the system and you had to declare a state of emergency. So, our suggestion to you, governor, is next time you want to assist people in the act of breaking our laws, think things out first – and then, don’t do it.

“Cheers to a new year and another chance for us to get it right.” - Candace Owens

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Information Center The

Harvard Continues To Slip From Its Pedestal John Ciccone

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ell, well, Harvard University once again finds itself in the news. This world-famous institute of higher learning was once among the most prestigious colleges in America.

The school was praised by just about everyone from pretty much all walks of life. Its reputation was top shelf. But this is now the 21st Century and that saying ‘Oh how the mighty have fallen’ seems to fit Harvard like a glove.

In the opinion of many Americans, Harvard should now be looked upon with disdain, as it has become a breeding ground for anti-American activism. Can we forget that there is even a published book, written

by John Leboutillier titled ‘Harvard Hates America? The author went on to describe what he experienced while attending Harvard, namely its elitism and hypocrisy.

In the latest controversy, Harvard finds itself embroiled in is the recent resignation by its president, Claudine Gay. Gay has now resigned her position as president as she is being accused of anti-Semitism and plagiarism. She says the attacks on her are based on ‘racial animus’. Yes, no one is surprised that the race card is being played.

The shock would be if it wasn’t.

The anti-Semitism charges against her are the result of her early position in regard to the harassment towards Jewish students on campus after the Hamas attacks on Israel, where 1400 Israelis including women and children were slaughtered in a surprise attack.

Women were raped and babies were literally beheaded. These cowardly attacks were proudly shown on video by the Hamas terrorists. Jewish students at Harvard and other colleges across our na-

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tion were targeted with threats and violence simply because of their heritage and religion.

While the attacks on Jewish students were going on, the demonstrations by pro Hamas students and professors, calling for the genocide of Jews were allowed to continue on the Harvard campus. Those in charge gave as their excuse to allow it to go on - freedom of speech. Now of all things to claim by Harvard as the school’s policy as its defense, that was the most hypocritical. Let’s not forget, Harvard was voted the number one college in the entire country in its efforts to SUPPRESS freedom of speech.

During the congressional hearings regarding what seemed to be clear cut tolerance of the anti-Jewish/pro Hamas harassment taking place on their campuses, the presidents of these colleges were perceived to be in favor of it or at least not all that concerned about it. And yes, Claudine Gay was among those being questioned at the hearing.

And then, there are the numerous charges of plagiarism being directed at Ms. Gay. By numerous, I don’t mean just one of two. There are now close to a dozen complaints against her. And so, under pressure, she has resigned. She yet again said it’s all about ‘racial animus’. I’d say her response is unbelievable, but it’s all quite believable that she would throw that up as her defense.

Will there be punishment involved as a result of these accusations? That depends on what people consider punishment. She’s not out of a job. She will continue to work at Harvard as a faculty member in the Political Science Department and will continue to collect her $900,000 a year salary she had as

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

president. Not a bad deal at all.

A regular reader to this newspaper, who happens to be African American himself, sent in the following post in regard to Claudine Gay and her stepping down, retaining her nearly $1 million dollar salary and her racism claims; “If Gay were white, she would never be able to pull this off. She uses her race to intimidate and to get away with her disgraceful actions”. That pretty much says it all. Another post that was on social media hit the target as well. It read: “Racism is the default setting for liberals. Whenever

they’ve got themselves backed into a corner and can’t win the fight, because they are wrong, they go running to hide behind racism”. And yet another post directed at Claudine Gay stated the following: “You weren’t pressured to step down because you’re black; you were hired because you’re black. You had to give up that title because you were a lousy president”. Yes, the public is no longer being fooled or blinded to the tactic by those playing the victim card when they’re caught and called out. It’s still working for some, but its effectiveness is fading fast.

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January 4, 2024

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.

State Revenue Squeeze State tax revenues have missed projections five months in a row.

By this time tomorrow, we’ll know if the first half of the year will go down as a big 0-for-6. The report summarizing the tax haul in December is due out today, and there’s a lot riding on whether it becomes a slump-buster or the latest in a lackluster string.

In addition to marking the halfway point through fiscal year 2024, the forthcoming revenue report will be the last one before budget-writers set the following year’s financial benchmarks and Gov. Maura Healey files her spending plan for fiscal 2025. Let’s consider the tonesetting potential: through the first five months of the year, tax collections are about $627 million or 4.3 percent short of where officials expected they would be by this point.

Layer on top of that the escalating pressure from the emergency shelter crisis and other cost drivers, and another sluggish report becomes even more worrisome.

“We have some challenges ahead of us,” said a relatively chipper Sen. Michael Rodrigues, his chamber’s budget chief, on Wednesday. “We will collectively rally and rise to those challenges.”

Across the hall, the tone has been a bit more muted. House Speaker Ron Mariano went out of his way this week — after years of overseeing massive state spending increases — to urge “fiscal prudence” in the months ahead.

Then again, a revenue rebound in December might be enough to change the vibes on the otherwise spend-happy Beacon Hill, even if it doesn’t close the year-to-date gap.

Sometimes the best way out of a slump is a seeing-eye single.

And just like that, offshore wind is up and running with ‘first power’ One turbine of the Vineyard Wind 1 project — finally — delivered about five megawatts of power on Tuesday morning. The wind farm, which is about 15 miles south of Martha’s Vineyard and

comes ashore at a grid interconnection point in Barnstable, plans to eventually have 62 turbines capable of generating more than 800 megawatts of power. This moment makes Mass. only the second state other than New York to get electricity from a major offshore wind development, writes Colin A. Young for the News Service.

The road to net-zero: released reports and million$ allocated A pair of reports publicized this week — the Climate Forestry Committee’s report and the Clean Energy Transmission Working Group’s report — show the efforts at work to make sure Mass. hits its legal requirement to achieve net-zero GHG emissions by 2050. Aside from scaling back emissions from power generation, transportation and building heating, “tag-along policies,” Colin A. Young writes for the News Service, like carbon sequestration are supposed to help Mass. actually reach its goals.

The Healey administration has

also allocated $50M to help local communities and private landowners protect forest land, a move that was announced in tandem with the Climate Forestry Committee’s report on Wednesday. The funding should aid Mass. in its climate goal of conserving 40 percent of natural and working lands by 2050.

Domestic violence murder rate up 55 percent Though Mass. has one of the lowest per capita rates of domestic violence homicides in the country, Christian M. Wade reports for the Eagle-Tribune, according to a new report by the Massachusetts Domestic Violence Fatality Review Team, there were 28 domestic violencerelated homicides in Mass. in 2022 — a number that’s up 55 percent over cases the year prior. There’s also been an increase, the report noted, in both aggravated assault cases and simple assault cases from 2021 to 2022, though kidnapping and intimidation cases show “very slight” decreases.

Massachusetts Community Climate Bank Announces First Hire

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he Massachusetts Community Climate Bank (MCCB) announced today that Maggie Super Church, a national leader in affordable housing and climate finance, will join the fund as its new Director of Policies and Programs. Super Church, the MCCB’s first hire, brings more than 25 years of experience on the ground in communities across Massachusetts and throughout the country. “I am incredibly excited to help advance the Healey-Driscoll Administration’s ambitious goals for simultaneously addressing the climate crisis and the housing crisis in Massachusetts,” said Maggie Super Church. “The Commonwealth has been a longtime leader and innovator in clean energy, and I look forward to building on that legacy through the work of the MCCB.” “Maggie Super Church brings deep exper-

tise and a commitment to community-focused responses to climate change to this new role, and we are thrilled to welcome her as the Climate Bank’s first hire,” said MassHousing CEO Chrystal Kornegay. “Her work will maximize investment in green building technologies, while ensuring that low- and moderate-income households lead the state’s clean energy transition.”

“Maggie Super Church gets things done – she is a savvy and strategic pragmatist with a proven record of getting projects built and creating innovative financing strategies to advance community development that improves quality of life and health for disadvantaged communities,” said Climate Chief Melissa Hoffer. “She joins the Community Climate Bank fresh from a prestigious visiting scholarship with the Federal Reserve Bank of New York and ready to hit the ground running. Maggie’s practical skills

– honed over decades of experience at the intersection of affordable housing, public health, climate, community economic development and real estate finance – will be a tremendous asset for the Community Climate Bank, the nation’s first and only green bank focused specifically on transitioning affordable housing to clean energy.

We are thrilled to welcome her to our team!”

In Massachusetts, buildings are responsible for 30 percent of all greenhouse gas emissions statewide. Transitioning the built environment to clean energy is a key component of the Commonwealth’s goal of achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050.

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January 4, 2024

Massport Holds Annual Coat Drive Employees donated new winter wear to children of South Boston

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he Massachusetts Port Authority’s (Massport) annual Winter Coat Drive benefitted nearly 118 children in East Boston and South Boston this year, doubling the number of donations made in 2022. Over 150 employees contributed their time and money to purchase winter coats for children ages two to 17 years old at Crossroads Family Center and Salesian Boys & Girls Club in East Boston, and Michael J. Perkins Elementary School and The Tierney Learning Center in South Boston.

“Each year, I am overwhelmed by the generosity of Massport employees and the joy it brings to participate in this effort,” said

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Massport Director of Community Relations & Government Affairs Alaina Coppola. “During a time when families may struggle to provide basic necessities, this gift enables them to focus their resources toward other areas of need and will hopefully make this holiday season a little brighter.”

“On behalf of the Tierney families, I would like to say thank you,” said Milagros “Milly” Pena of the Tierney Learning Center. “The kids’ smiles when they received their new coats was perfect. And the parents’ appreciation is the best feeling ever as well as being able to help my community. And I would not be able to do it without your help.”

L-R: Lilu Torres & Milagros “Milly” Pena of the Tierney Learning Center; Alaina Coppola, Massport; Representative David Biele; Karen Zirkle, Legislative Aide, Representative David Biele’s Office; Sandra Gomez, Tierney Learning Center and Audrey Nagle, Massport

L-R: Beatrice “Betsy” Falcon, Family Engagement Coordinator, Perkins School; Karen Zirkle, Legislative Aide, Representative David Biele’s Office; Representative David Biele; Audrey Nagle & Alaina Coppola, Massport

PUBLIC NOTICE: FOLLOW-UP DISCUSSION ON MCCA CYPHER STREET REMEDIATION PROJECT On Thursday, January 11 from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. the Massachusetts Convention Center Authority will host a community discussion at CRISPR Therapeutics,, located at 105 West First Street in South Boston, regarding an upcoming soil remediation project on Cypher Street.

MCCA officials will be presenting and available to answer questions.

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January 4, 2024

Addition of Bluebikes’ Next-Gen Ebikes Announced

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he cities of Boston, Cambridge, Somerville and Everett, the town of Brookline, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts (“Blue Cross”) and Lyft today announced plans to integrate 750 next-generation ebikes into Greater Boston’s popular Bluebikes program and the renewal of Blue Cross’ title sponsorship through May 2031.

The rollout will begin with 50 ebikes hitting the street this week; an additional 700 will join the fleet in subsequent months.

The new seven-year agreement between Blue Cross and the municipal owners further cements a dynamic public-private partnership for sustainable urban transportation. Blue Cross will continue its commitment to promoting the overall health and well-being of Massachusetts residents by supporting the municipal owners of Bluebikes in driving system growth and accessibility through initiatives including station expansions, system enhancements and the integration of ebikes.

“Today marks an exciting milestone as we of the Bluebikes partnership, the municipal owners – usher in the next wave of transportation in in conjunction with Blue Cross – have made investGreater Boston with the introduction of state- ments, received grants and fostered station sponsorof-the-art e-bikes,” Boston Mayor Michelle ships to accomplish system milestones, including: Wu said. “Partnerships such as our Bluebikes · Expanding the system from four to 13 municialliance with Blue Cross are crucial in ensurpalities, representing a 225% increase ing our residents have access to healthier, · Supporting a 333% growth in the number of more sustainable, and affordable transportation available Bluebikes and a 150% expansion in the options. We look forward to continued collabo- number of Bluebikes stations ration with Blue Cross and all our municipal · Bolstering the income-eligible program partners as we elevate our bike share system.” · Surpassing 22 million rides taken “The City of Cambridge is proud to support more “Bluebikes have become an integral part of affordable, sustainable, and healthier forms of so many communities in and around Boston, and we are thrilled to continue supporting the transportation and extend what has been a win-win public-private partnership,” said Cambridge City system,” said Blue Cross President and CEO Manager Yi-An Huang. “Bluebikes have become a Sarah Iselin. “We’re looking forward to the next chapter of partnership with the cities and critical part of Cambridge’s public transportation system and I am excited that the system is becomtowns through the renewal of our Bluebikes ing even more accessible through the addition of sponsorship. Biking is truly one of the best ways to get around, benefiting the environment ebikes to the Bluebikes fleet, which will open up as well as our mental and physical health. And the system to more older adults, people with disabilities, and others who may find traditional bikes adding ebikes to the Bluebikes system is an important step toward making biking more ac- hard to pedal. It will also create more opportunities for individuals seeking to maximize their time and cessible to more people.” access to our busy communities, while reducing The new collection of ebikes is expected to grow the overall Bluebikes fleet to 5,000 bikes traffic congestion.”

Lyft’s ebike was named one of TIME’s 100 Best across 500 stations by next summer. Funding for the initial purchase of the ebikes came from Inventions of 2022. It features a long-lasting battery with a 60-mile range, a user-friendly interface a combination of municipal investment from LCD screen, a smoother ride and numerous safety Boston and Cambridge, state funding, fedupgrades. Massachusetts legalized Class 1 ebikes, eral funding by the Boston Area Metropolitan which have no throttle and a maximum speed of 20 Planning Organization and support from Blue MPH, as part of the Transportation Bond Bill last Cross’s sponsorship of the bikeshare system.

Together, Boston, Cambridge, Somerville, and year. Unlike traditional pedal bikes, ebikes aren’t permitted on sidewalks; they can be used on shared Blue Cross will provide support for affordable paths and bike lanes. Riders must follow all trafuser costs of ebikes for Bluebikes members. fic laws and regulations and must bike in the same The state’s largest health plan became Bluedirection of traffic except on specially marked bikes’ title sponsor in 2018. Since the inception

streets. Riders must always yield to pedestrians, maintain a safe speed and remain aware of all street users of all abilities.

“Somerville takes great pride in our regional, public-owned Bluebikes system, which is already one of the most successful bikeshare systems in North America,” said Somerville Mayor Katjana Ballantyne. “Bikeshare is public transit, and I believe that affordable, pedalassist ebikes can improve travel choices for people across the metro region.”

“Bluebikes is getting our newest ebike, which has cutting-edge features that riders love,” said Caroline Samponaro, VP of Public Policy, Lyft. “These ebikes make it easier than ever for people to reach jobs, family, and friends with sustainable, climate-friendly transportation that gets cars off our roads. I want to thank Mayor Wu, all the Bluebikes municipal owners, and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts for their continued investment and partnership in Bluebikes. Without them, Bluebikes wouldn’t be the tremendous success it is today.”

The municipal owners have prioritized access and affordability for the new Bluebikes ebikes, which will be available at $0.10 per minute for Bluebikes members, $0.25 per minute for Adventure Pass holders, and $0.07 per minute for low-income residents enrolled in Bluebikes’ Income-Eligible Program. Incomeeligible riders are provided a reduced annual fee for Bluebikes. Earlier this year, Boston also announced the Boston Bikes Pass, which is a Bluebikes membership offered only to City of Boston residents at a reduced annual rate of $60. Learn more discounted Bluebikes rates at https://www.boston.gov/departments/ boston-bikes/discounted-bluebikes.

January 4, 2024

SOUTHBOSTONTODAY • www.southbostontoday.com 95280 Drone_Massport_SouthBoston Today_4.875x12.125.pdf

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Senator Collins Announces Appointments to the South Boston Community Development Foundation

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en. Nick Collins recently selected LTC Tim Murphy, MANG and Mrs. Haley (Dillon) Walsh to his appointed seats on the South Boston Community Development Foundation (SBCDF).

“Tim and Haley know the community well having participated in many of the types of programs SBCDF seeks to support whether in their youth or now as coaches and supporters. I have faith that they know where the needs are and can help guide SBCDF with their fellow membership and execute its special mission.”

LTC Tim Murphy was born and raised in South Boston, MA and currently resides there with his wife, Leah and 3 kids, Thomas (9), Molly (7) and Maddie (5). Tim is a 2002 graduate of the United States Military Academy where he played hockey and served as the team captain his senior year. He was commissioned as a Field Artillery Officer and served 6 years on active-duty at Fort Hood, TX with the 1st Cavalry Division. He served two tours (27 months) deployed to Iraq (Baghdad, Baqubah) as a rifle platoon leader and BN Battle Captain/A/S3. He transitioned to the Massachusetts Army National Guard in 2008 and served as the 1-101 FA RearD CDR, 1-101 FA Training Officer, 51st TC S4, APMS at Boston University, 1-101 FA XO/AO, J3 for the COVID response and the RRB CDR since 16 AUG 2020. In his free time, Tim serves on numerous local boards in his neighborhood, coaches various sports teams to include a high school hockey team and volunteers with many veterans organizations.

Upon being reappointed as Sen. Collins’ veteran representative, LTC Murphy stated, “It is an honor to serve on a Foun-

dation that supports programs across the community that so many South Boston families benefit from. Our aim is to ensure that they continue to get the resources they need to thrive.”

Mrs. (Dillon) Walsh was also born and raised in South Boston. Newly married, she continues to live in her hometown neighborhood with her husband Conor. A graduate of the Boston Latin Academy and the University of Maine at Orono, in March of 2019 she was elected the “Mayor of South Boston”. Shortly thereafter was was appointed as the South Boston Community Liaison and Neighborhood Coordinator for the Mayor’s Office of Neighborhood Services where she served till spring of 2022.

Since then she has been a key member of Senator Collins’ leadership team in the Massachusetts Senate, currently serving as his Chief of Staff. Active in non-profit and civic affairs, she sits on several other community and non-profit boards.

After being sworn in as Sen. Collins’ designee, Mrs. (Dillon) Walsh stated, “I am honored to be appointed to the South Boston Community Development Foundation by Senator Collins. As someone who grew up in South Boston, I have been on the receiving end of the foundation’s mission. The foundation has helped support many of the programs I was involved in growing up, many of which were crucial to me and my friends’ upbringing. I am thrilled to be a part of a foundation that benefits the people of South Boston.”

The Foundation was established through legislation under Chapter 152 of the Acts of 1997 to construct the Boston Convention & Exhibition Center (BCEC) on the South Boston Waterfront and was amended last year to add veteran and labor seats. The board funds community programs with revenues generated from gate shows at the BCEC. Consisting of eleven members appointed by Governor, Legislature, Mayor and District Councilor, all members must be South Boston residents.

Keep the holidays merry and bright.

Obey the rules for a safe drone flight: • Register your drone • Never fly near any aircraft, airports or other controlled airspace without prior FAA approval • Keep your drone in sight at all times • Always fly below 400 feet • Learn the rules for Remote ID and flying over crowds

Breaking the law will lead to penalties Visit FAA.gov/UAS for more information

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The

Wine Guy

Starting Over

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ell, I hope everyone had a great Holiday season.

They seem to go by faster than they come these days. A lot of us are left holding shirts that don’t fit, or hat and glove sets that don’t go with one thing in our closets; however, we might also have some gift cards. So, hold onto them and consider using them on some of the following………

I think some of the reasons that Prosecco is such a popular go-to for something sparkling are the variety, the versatility and the price. One of my favorites in all three areas is Josh Prosecco, N.V., Prosecco, Italy, ($14.99).

The wine has refreshing acidity and a touch of sweetness from the ripe fruit. On the nose, you’ll find scents of pear, green apples and citrus. On the palate the light effervescence provides a vibrant racy texture. Great for a potluck Sunday brunch in January with a few family or friends.

Of course, for watching the Playoffs, a hearty red might be more the thing. How about some shaved flank steak, grated Gouda cheese, Bearnaise sauce and Arugula on a toasted baguette, with a bottle of 2021 Giacomo Borgogno & Figli Derthona Timorasso Colli Tortonesi, Piedmont, Italy, ($38.99). Get

ready for some spiced pears, mixed with candied lemon rind, wildflowers and fresh honey, all swirling in concert in the glass. Each sniff brings out a new element from the wine: fruit, mineral and flower. The palate is full-bodied, with a texture that will make you keep coming back and rue the moment the glass is finished, capped with apricot and a salty minerality.

Au Bon Climat Santa Barbara Chardonnay 2019, Central Coast, California, ($19.99). The Wine to Buy says, “The 2020 Au Bon Climat Chardonnay possesses flinty, stony aromas stand out while in the background is a hard spice note from bourbon barrel aging.

There are notes of lemon-lime and soft vanilla. With the first taste it is irresistible. This is one of those wines that invites the consumer to have another glass. At this young age, this wine would be perfect

January 4, 2024

with shellfish or poultry. It will improve for at least 10 years and as it evolves, try this wine with chanterelle mushroom pasta and be amazed.”. Or, you don’t have to wait, as it’s drinking great right now; maybe a glass with a piece of Quiche Lorraine and some fresh berries soaked in Chambord.

As for the end, I’d like to suggest some Port and espresso; for this time of year, a glass of Port can provide a bit of natural heat for your body and a good Port is hard to beat. Quinta das Carvalhas 10-Year Tawny Port, Porto, Portugal, ($32.99). James Suckling, in the Wine Spectator, gave this one 92 points, saying “This one sports a toasty edge, with hazelnut and singed almond notes, while the core of plum cake and cinnamon holds steady through the finish. Enjoy with hard cheese, pecan pie or almond flavored cake!”.

BOSTON CITY COUNCILOR AT-LARGE RUTHZEE LOUIJUENE NEWLY ELECTED PRESIDENT OF THE COUNCIL

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Louijeune earned the support of her newly sworn in council colleagues, making her the first Haitian American Council President

onday, January 1, 2024, Boston City Councilor At-Large Ruthzee Louijeune has been sworn in as the President of the Boston City Council, making her not only the third Black woman to hold this position, but also the first Haitian-American.

‘It was an honor to nominate Coun-

cilor Ruthzee Louijeune as council president.’ said District 1 Councilor Gabriella Coletta. ‘I’m confident the Council will promote collaboration, governance, and accountability this legislative session.’

“I am excited for what’s to come for our city, and believe that our collective work can transform our

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The Evolution of Oil heat

beloved city into one where every person feels honored, safe, housed, and healthy.” said Louijuene. “I am hopeful, and I am grateful, because the only way we get through, the only way we thrive, the only way we push forward, is together.”

“Councilor Louijeune has shown she knows how to build bridges to address issues that impact all Boston residents from tackling crucial city services to spearheading initiatives that create more affordable housing and uplift our most underserved communities’ said District 4 Councilor Brian Worrell. ‘I am proud to support her as our next Council President in my capacity as Council Vice President and look forward to partnering with her and all of our colleagues to deliver for our City.’

There is additional significance to the swearing in, as January 1st also celebrates Haitian Independence Day, the most important holiday in the Haitian community. On January 1, Haitians celebrate their role in history as the first free Black republic in the Western hemisphere

and the only country in the world founded from a slave revolt. Boston is home to the third largest Haitian diaspora in the country.

As Louijeune was sworn in, the chambers filled with family, friends, and loved ones dawned in red and blue, celebrating both Haitian Independence Day and her historymaking appointment. In her first speech as council president, Louijeune outlined a vision for the city of Boston that addresses historic inequities while envisioning a future that welcomes everyone to the

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January 4, 2024

SOUTHBOSTONTODAY • www.southbostontoday.com

St. Peter Academy

Open House January 24, 2024

P

lease join St. Peter Academy for our Winter Open House on January 24, 2024 at 9:00 am to 11:00 am and 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm.

Why St. Peter Academy? One of the tried-and-true hallmarks of a St. Peter education is the small class sizes. Small class sizes can provide a range of benefits to both students and teachers, including more personalized attention, improved

classroom management, increased academic achievement, better preparation for higher education, and overall student well-being.

St. Peter Academy is an independent community based private school and is South Boston’s only Full Year Toddler Program through Grade 6 School. It is privately funded, enriched with extended learning hours and

summer programs, and fosters a nurturing, safe and individualized environment. We welcome the opportunity to have you visit St. Peter Academy to see for yourself that ours is a unique and wonderful learning community.

It is truly a “GEM” in the heart of the South Boston community.

St. Peter Academy is accepting applications for the present and 2024-2025 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

9 for the limited spaces available in the year-round toddler program (beginning at age 15 months) and 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 private tours can be made by contacting Maria Blasi, at 617268-0750 or by emailing spa@StPeterAcademy.com.

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January 4, 2024

BPDA marks transformative year of restructuring and reform

I

Agency approves more than 7,300 units of housing, improves standards for development through inclusionary zoning and linkage policy changes

n 2023, the Boston Planning & Development Agency (BPDA) made meaningful changes to how planning and development are done in the City of Boston. The Agency restructured its planning department to focus on comprehensive planning, zoning reform, and zoning compliance, and grew from 183 to 226 employees. Elevating planning and design, the Agency was able to adopt neighborhood plans in Mattapan, Charlestown, Downtown, and Newmarket, complete zoning recommendations from three of those plans, embark on the first citywide zoning reform effort in decades, launch a citywide Design Vision to create standards for design that embrace diversity and inclusion, and reshape the design review process.

In addition to major strides in transforming the Agency, the BPDA completed signature policy changes of the Wu Administration, including increasing Linkage payments, and not only changing the City’s Inclusionary Development Policy to increase affordable housing, but also incorporating the policy into the Boston Zoning Code for the first time in the City’s history.

The BPDA advanced an unprecedented volume of development on nearly one million square feet of underutilized, public land across Boston. These 16 sites will produce a variety of public benefits, such as new affordable housing, open space, transportation connections, commercial units, and arts and culture spaces. Notable sites include Parcel P3 in Roxbury, Parcel P12C in Chinatown, the Austin Street Parking Lots in Charlestown, and the new branch of the Boston Public Library in Uphams Corner with 100% affordable homeownership units. Four properties this year will become dedicated community gardens, creating 39,205 square feet of permanent open space. These redevelopment efforts are in direct response to the City’s 2022 land audit to maximize the potential for underutilized sites across Boston,

particularly some of the Agency’s largest parcels that have sat vacant for decades.

BPDA acts on Mayor Wu’s mandates to elevate and coordinate City planning, streamline Article 80 approvals, and rezone squares and streets During her State of the City address last January, Mayor Michelle Wu announced a series of reforms to make planning and development more accountable, transparent, and predictable, and to direct the City’s planning and development resources toward addressing climate resilience, equitable growth, and housing affordability.

These reforms include moving the operations of planning and development under City control under the direction of Chief of Planning Arthur Jemison, forming a Planning Advisory Council (P.A.C.) to increase coordination between City departments that impact the built environment, modernizing Article 80, reforming the Zoning Code, specifically Boston’s neighborhood centers and main streets, and ending urban renewal.

Transition to City of Boston In the beginning of 2024, Mayor Wu will file an ordinance with the City Council to create the new City department, and a vast majority of BPDA staff will become City employees on July 1st, 2024. Over the course of 2023, the Agency focused on the 40 benefits offered to current BPDA employees to identify differences between the BPDA and City of Boston employment packages, and ensure staff are prepared to move to City employment at the beginning of the next fiscal year.

This move will restore planning as a core function of City government.

In addition, BPDA compliance staff moved under the Mayor’s Office of Housing earlier in 2023.

Planning Advisory Council The new Citywide Planning Advisory Council (PAC), created via Executive Order in January 2023, has established itself as an active internal collaboration unit, setting a regular cadence of monthly

meetings to tackle key mayoral priorities under the leadership of the Chair (Chief Jemison) and Executive Director, Katharine Lusk.

Lusk returned to City Hall after helping to launch and build an interdisciplinary urban research and policy center at Boston University, founded by late Boston Mayor Tom Menino.

Article 80 modernization The Mayor committed to modernizing the Article 80 development review process to prioritize predictability for both developers and community members, a process the BPDA launched in 2023. This is the first comprehensive review of the process since Article 80 was adopted nearly three decades ago.

The BPDA is modernizing Article 80 to meaningfully address both the internal operations and the community engagement process to make development review more predictable. In February, Mayor Michelle Wu announced the members of an Article 80 steering committee of real estate and civic leaders to advise on reforms. The committee has already met several times, and the BPDA is conducting extensive community engagement through the use of surveys, focus groups, and comments to ensure community voices are represented in the review. Any recommended changes will go through community and BPDA Board review prior to implementation.

Zoning reform To update Boston’s zoning code

and enable thousands of additional housing units in Boston’s neighborhood centers and main streets, the BPDA’s restructured Planning Department’s first major planning and rezoning initiative, Squares + Streets kicked off this past fall. The initiative focuses on enabling more housing, small businesses, cultural resources, and reliable transportation in these commercial areas.

Over the course of the next two years, this process will be implemented through customized small area plans for selected squares and streets and provide a clear vision for growth.

Home rule petition on urban renewal and structural change to the BPDA The Boston City Council in March approved Mayor Wu’s Home Rule Petition to end Urban Renewal and simplify Boston’s quasi-governmental entity by abolishing the BRA and EDIC and transferring the powers and duties of those entities into a new, singular entity named the BPDA. The legislation directs the BPDA to prepare and implement plans that address three key planning principles: 1) resiliency, including climate change mitigation and adaptation; 2) affordability, including the creation and retention of affordable housing and support for local businesses; and 3) equity, in the form of community development plans that ensure the equitable distribution of benefits derived from development in the City, and redress histori-

January 4, 2024

cal inequitable policies that may have led to inequities in the City’s growth. The legislation would require that all plans be approved by the mayor.

BPDA takes bold action to increase funding for job training and affordable housing, development requirements for affordable housing, and revitalize Downtown through office-to-residential conversions Linkage The BPDA Board of Directors supported changes to the Linkage policy in February that increased fees for lab and commercial uses.

These changes were then given final approval by the Zoning Commission. This money goes toward the creation and preservation of affordable housing within the Neighborhood Housing Trust, as well as to support the job training and job readiness needs of Boston’s residents within the Neighborhood Jobs Trust. The changes to the Linkage Policy include lowering the threshold and exemption from 100,000 square feet to 50,000 square feet, increasing the total linkage fee for lab uses over two years to $30.78 per square foot for lab space, and to $23.09 for other commercial uses, up from $15.39. Sixteen percent of the fees will support job training and job preparedness programs, while the remaining 84 percent will support the creation and preservation of affordable housing. The increase in the fees will be phased in over two years beginning in January 2024.

Inclusionary Zoning The BPDA Board of Directors supported a text amendment to the zoning code over the summer to incorporate the City’s Inclusionary Development Policy (IDP) within zoning for the first time in the City’s history. This amendment was then given final approval by the Zoning Commission. The new Inclusionary Zoning amendment updates the prior policy by lowering the unit count threshold for projects that will be required to include income-restricted units from ten to seven units, and increasing the portion of housing that is required to be income-restricted from 13 percent to 20 percent. The

SOUTHBOSTONTODAY • www.southbostontoday.com

addition of Inclusionary Zoning changes also means that affordability requirements are no longer triggered by requests for zoning relief from the Zoning Board of Appeal. Instead, affordability is required of all projects that meet the new policy’s thresholds, regardless of whether they will need variances or not.

Office to Residential conversion program In October, the Agency officially launched the Downtown Residential Conversion Incentive Pilot Program, which provides a payment in lieu of taxes (PILOT) incentive to developers who will be converting office buildings into residential buildings. The goal of this program is to convert older commercial office buildings to residential, to increase housing stock in the neighborhood, which would then increase the amount of people and economic activity Downtown.

This responds to post-pandemic economic shifts that put more priority on expanding housing options downtown, to improve downtown activation. Though the targeted areas for this program are downtown office buildings, projects throughout the city will also be considered on a case by case basis.

BPDA recognized for innovative DEI policies Commonwealth Development Compact In May, the City signed onto the Commonwealth Development Compact in partnership with other Massachusetts cities. The commitments within the Compact align with the current diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies advanced by the BPDA for both public land dispositions and private development. By signing onto this document, the City of Boston will participate in a pilot program of what will be known as the Commonwealth Development Model, which intends to collect data on the makeup of current and future development projects. The program is designed to build economic opportunity for minority and womenowned firms, who have historically been vastly under-represented in private real estate development.

Pacesetters Award for Minority

Business Enterprise Partnership The Agency was also recognized in June by the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce with the Pacesetters Award for Minority Business Enterprise Partnership of the Year. The Agency received the Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) Partnership of the Year Award for their work with Casablanca Services Inc., a minorityowned landscaping firm. The Pacesetters award recognizes growth in spend, innovative procurement practices, and overall commitment to creating economic opportunities in the business community.

BPDA completes and approves neighborhood plans and associated zoning recommendations at unprecedented pace As part of its ongoing commitment to proactively plan for Boston’s future growth, the BPDA completed and adopted neighborhood planning studies in Mattapan, Charlestown, Downtown, and Newmarket and is currently wrapping up the planning process in East Boston. In addition, the Allston Brighton Needs Assessment, launched over the summer, recently concluded, with recommendations for future planning in the neighborhoods. The BPDA launched the Fenway Transportation Action Plan in September, progress continued on the South Boston Transportation Action Plan including a thorough analysis of existing conditions to inform recommended improvements, and the South Boston Seaport Strategic Transit Plan was adopted by the BPDA Board in December.

Charlestown The BPDA Board of Directors adopted the PLAN: Charlestown planning initiative in September, after four years of work and engagement with the public.

The plan includes: an analysis of neighborhood needs and recommendations to improve access to services, recommendations for new zoning for existing industrial parts of the neighborhood to encourage more housing and retail options, and urban design guidelines to govern future development in the former industrial area and in the Original Peninsula.

11 Mattapan The BPDA Board of Directors adopted the PLAN: Mattapan planning initiative in May, nearly five years after the initiative began in October 2018. Over the course of more than 150 community meetings, Mattapan residents and community stakeholders worked alongside the planning team to craft a vision and goals for their neighborhood’s future, and establish planning recommendations.

Newmarket The BPDA Board of Directors adopted PLAN: Newmarket in August. The plan lays out a vision and the tools for Newmarket to serve as a key center of industrial activity and employment for Boston residents, and as an area primed to attract the industries of tomorrow.

Overlapping the neighborhoods of Dorchester, Roxbury, South Boston, and the South End, the Newmarket industrial zone acts as an economic engine and jobs center for the City of Boston, and this plan supports the enhancement of that role.

Downtown The BPDA Board of Directors formally adopted the PLAN: Downtown planning initiative in December. The community planning process, which originally began in 2018, establishes a new framework for the growth, enhancement, and preservation of Downtown Boston as a 24-hour neighborhood, balancing livability, affordability, walkability, climate change preparedness, access to open space, and a dynamic mix of uses.

East Boston The BPDA is currently in the process of completing PLAN: East Boston, which originally began in 2018.

It is expected to be presented and heard by the BPDA Board at their January board meeting. The draft plan, released in September, focuses on: expanding access to housing options that are affordable, stable, and able to meet households’ needs as they change over time, advancing climate preparedness and promoting a healthy environment, ensuring access to travel choices that better connect East Boston to the rest of the City, supporting local business, and guiding neighborhood growth that is predictable and contextual.

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students did an incredible job of South Boston Catholic Academy News grade reenacting the nativity scene depicting

“Christmas in Our Hearts”

T

he students at South Boston Catholic Academy did a fantastic job participating in their Annual Christmas Concert entitled, “Christmas in Our Hearts”, which is actually a beautiful song from the Philippines that the SBCA Children’s Choir did a wonderful job singing in the show. All the SBCA students joyfully sang many festive songs that set the tone for us to get ready to celebrate the true meaning of Christmas, Jesus’ birthday. Thank you to all our wonderful SBCA students,

parents, families, friends, faculty and staff for helping to make this Christmas Concert possible. Thank you to our talented Art Teacher, Ms. Valerie Smuzlo, for decorating the front of our stage and turning it into a winter wonderland. A special Thank you to our talented Music Teacher, Mr. Carlo Bunyi, for helping the children prepare for this joyful uplifting musical concert honoring Jesus’ birth as God’s son and our Savior.

Just before leaving for our Christmas vacation, Ms. Lauren Monahan’s 6th

the birth of Jesus. Thank you to their Religion Teacher, Mrs. Maureen Bailey, for helping them prepare for their roles in this Nativity Story. This was followed by “A Christmas Prayer for Children” ...Dear God, Thank you for all the fun and excitement of Christmas. Thank you for the amazing nativity story that tells us about the birth of Jesus. Thank you for sending us your Son, a gift from you into this world. As we look at the lights on the tree, remind us of the hope Jesus showed everyone.

And as we open the gifts and presents, remind us that Jesus was the best gift ever. Help us to share special times with family and friends this Christmas,

January 4, 2024

and share the light of hope and gift of Jesus to the world. Amen” Then, our Pastor, Father Robert Casey wished everyone a Merry Christmas and gave a special blessing to all and he and Mr. Carlo Bunyi led us in a sing-a-long of Christmas melodies, as we set out to get ready to celebrate Christmas with our families and friends. On behalf of our Principal, Dr. Helenann Civian, and all of us at SBCA, we hope and pray that everyone had a Merry Christmas and will have a Happy and Healthy New Year! New families are welcome to email our admissions team at admissions@sbcatholicadacademy.org for more info. about South Boston Catholic Academy.Our Hearts”

January 4, 2024

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State Representative David Biele of South Boston and State Representative John Moran of the South End stopped by The Mary Ann Brett Food Pantry to help distribute gifts to families and children of the St. Teresa of Calcutta Parish.

In the photo: James Brett; Andrea Cook; State Representative John Moran; and State Representative David Biele

Ruthzee continued from page 8

table. From addressing barriers to homeownership, to creating stronger models for waste collection in all of our neighborhoods, to ensuring that every BPS student has the tools they need to reach their full potential, and working with our unions to make sure that Boston is a city that continues to put people before profit.

Louijeune recognized and offered flowers to her predecessor, Ed Flynn, who served as president during her first term in office. She

also welcomed new colleagues Enrique Pepen, John Fitzgerald, Henry Santana, and Ben Weber. During Louijeune’s first term, she met the moment with passion, work ethic, and deep love for Boston. She successfully led the council through the tumultuous redistricting process, passing a map that met standards set by a federal court order. As Chair of the Committee on Civil Rights and Immigrant Advancement, she pushed for additions in the budget, securing

funds for fair housing testers, a municipal wage study, expanding the Office of Returning Citizens, increased housing support for vulnerable populations, and initiatives for affordable homeownership. She has been an advocate for legalizing beekeeping citywide, increasing the frequency of trash pickup for cleaner streets, and actively works to bridge gaps and distribute resources to every neighborhood.

As president, Louijeune is committed to building on her previous work, while

uplifting the issues that her colleagues hold dearly. “One thing to know about me is that I unequivocally reject any zero-sum mentality that suggests that for one group to succeed, another must lose,” Louijeune stated. The newly sworn in council is a profound representation of the vibrancy and diversity that makes up Boston. Louijeune is hopeful that during her tenure, this body will embrace different perspectives and lived experiences, while also acting as a strong collective voice for the people of Boston.

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maybe they get to pick the family movie during the weekend. Maybe your preschooler can eat more vegetables by drinking them in smoothies that the whole family enjoys. Involving kids in the decision-making and making these fun for the entire family can help turn these resolutions into long-lasting habits.

Here are some healthy and positive goal-setting resolution ideas you can suggest to your children, depending on their age: New Year’s resolution ideas for preschoolers • I will try hard to clean up my toys by putting them where they belong.

• I will let my parents help me brush my teeth twice a day.

• I will wash my hands after going to the bathroom and before eating.

• I will try new foods when I can, especially all different colors of vegetables.

• I will learn how to help clear the table when I am done eating.

• I will be friendly to all animals. I will learn how to ask the owners if I can pet their animal first.

• I will always hold a grown-up’s hand whenever I cross the street.

• I will do my best to be nice to other kids who need a friend or look sad or lonely.

• I will talk with my parent or anClimate Bank continued from page 4

SOUTHBOSTONTODAY • www.southbostontoday.com

other adult I trust when I need help or am scared.

New Year’s resolution ideas for kids (5 to 12 years old) • I will drink water every day and healthy beverages like milk with meals. I will keep soda and fruit drinks only for special times.

• I will wear my seat belt every time I get in a car. I’ll sit in the back seat and use a booster seat until I am tall enough to use a lap/shoulder seat belt.

• I will try to find a physical activity (like playing tag, jumping rope, dancing or riding my bike) or a sport I like and do it at least three times a week!

• I will take care of my skin by putting on sunscreen and wearing a hat and sunglasses when possible.

• I will always wear a helmet when riding a bike, scooter or skateboard.

• I’ll try to be friendly to kids who may have a hard time making friends by talking with them and inviting them to join activities.

• I will tell an adult about bullying that I see or hear about to do what I can to help keep school safe for everyone.

• I will keep my personal info safe and not share my name, home address, school name or telephone number online. Also, I’ll never send a picture of myself to someone I chat

In her new role at the MCCB, Super Church will lead the development and implementation of financing solutions for single-family and multi-family housing that advance the Commonwealth’s building sector decarbonization goals. The MCCB will make investments that measurably reduce emissions and contribute to the production and preservation of affordable rental and homeownership housing across the Commonwealth.

Super Church previously served as Vice President for Healthy and Resilient Communities at the Conservation Law Foundation, where she co-led the creation of multiinvestor funds for healthy neighborhoods in partnership with the Massachusetts Housing Investment Corporation. She was most recently a Visiting Scholar at the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, where she contributed to a forthcoming book on climate and community development.

The MCCB is situated at MassHousing, effectively combining the agency’s 50-plus years of experience delivering complex fi-

January 4, 2024

with on the computer or phone without asking my parent if it is okay.

• I will try to talk with my parent or a trusted adult when I have a problem or feel stressed.

• I promise that I’ll do my best to follow our household rules for videogames and internet use.

• I will try to save time to read for fun.

New Year’s resolution ideas for teens (13 years old and older) • I will try to eat two servings of fruit and two servings of vegetables every day. I will drink sodas or fruit drinks only at special times.

• I will do my best to take care of my body through fun physical activity and eating the right types and amounts of foods.

• When I have some down time for media, I will try to choose educational, high-quality non-violent TV shows and video games that I enjoy.

I will spend only one to two hours each day—at the most—on these activities. I promise to respect out household rules for videogames and internet use.

• I will try to get 8 to 10 hours of sleep that my body needs each night.

• I will do what I can to help out in my community. I will give some of my time to help others, working with community groups or others that help people in need. These activi-

nancial transactions and structuring publicprivate housing finance solutions with a new clean finance vehicle dedicated to decarbonizing Massachusetts’s affordable housing stock. The MCCB’s primary investment vehicle, the Massachusetts Community Climate Bank Fund, is seeded with $50 million from the state of Massachusetts and will aggregate additional capital from state, federal, private, and philanthropic sources.

About the Massachusetts Community Climate Bank Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey created the MCCB in June 2023, as the nation’s first green bank dedicated to affordable housing. MassHousing will incubate and steward the MCCB’s growth in collaboration with two partners that are experienced in delivering green energy solutions into sectors beyond affordable housing: the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (MassCEC) and the Massachusetts Development Finance Agency (MassDevelopment). The MCCB is organized to promote clean energy solutions for low- and moderate-income households by leveraging

ties will make me feel better about myself and my community.

• When I feel angry stressed out, I will take a break and find helpful ways to deal with the stress, such as exercising, reading, writing in a journal or talking about my problem with a parent or friend.

• When faced with a difficult decision, I will talk about my choices with an adult I can trust.

• When I notice my friends are struggling, being bullied or making risky choices, I will look for a trusted adult so that we can attempt to find a way to help.

• I will be careful about whom I choose to date. I will treat the other person with respect and not force them to do something they do not want to do. I will not use violence.

I will expect to be treated the same way in return.

• I will resist peer pressure to try drugs, alcohol or smoking or vaping.

• I agree not to use a cell phone or text message while driving and to always use a seat belt.

Remember: Talk with your child’s pediatrician about other important habits that can help ensure a happy, healthy and safe new year.

Courtesy of Dr. Lanre Omojokun Falusi, MD, FAAP- American Academy of Pediatrics

federal, state, and private funds. Massachusetts has prioritized accelerated investment in affordable homes -- where residents bear a disproportionate burden of energy costs, and where families have been disproportionately impacted by pollution from fossil fuels.

About MassHousing MassHousing (The Massachusetts Housing Finance Agency) is an independent, quasi-public agency created in 1966 and charged with providing financing for affordable housing in Massachusetts. The Agency raises capital by selling bonds and lends the proceeds to low- and moderate-income homebuyers and homeowners, and to developers who build or preserve affordable and/ or mixed-income rental housing. MassHousing does not use taxpayer dollars to sustain its operations, although it administers some publicly funded programs on behalf of the Commonwealth. Since its inception, MassHousing has provided more than $29.5 billion for affordable housing. For more information, follow us on Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn.

January 4, 2024

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This week,

Danny shared his thoughts on the announcement of the new professional football merger:

D

o you smell what The Rock is cooking?

No, I’m not about to go on a pro wrestling rant. Though, I do have plenty to say about that as we get closer to WrestleMania season, which begins with the Royal Rumble later this month. But I digress.

I’m talking about The Rock’s latest pro football announcement. It was announced on New Year’s Eve that The Rock’s XFL would be merging with the USFL to officially form the brand new “UFL,” as in, the United Football League.

The press release announced that XFL President and CEO Russ Brandon will remain in those same roles with the UFL, while the USFL President of Football operations Daryl Johnston will also retain his role in the UFL. The inaugural UFL season begins on March 30 with a game between last year’s champions of both the XFL and USFL: Birmingham Stallions (USFL) and the Arlington Renegades (XFL).

There will be eight teams in what’s being called “the premier spring football league.” It will be divided into two conferences: the XFL and USFL. Each team will play 10 regular season games, with training camp beginning on Feb 24.

For more information, check out TheUFL.com.

As for my opinion on it? I think it

makes too much sense for a merger here. I never understood why the USFL even launched, knowing that the XFL was coming back. There isn’t really a need for pro football in the spring, never mind two competing pro football leagues in the spring. So, ultimately, a merger here is a no brainer.

Will it be a success? Well, it has a much better chance to be a success today, as one joint league, than it did before the merger.

Here’s the press release: NEW YORK, NY – December 31, 2023 – Today marks the official announcement regarding the launch of the United Football League (the “UFL”), the premier spring football league that will result from the merger of the XFL and USFL. The 2024 season for the UFL is set to kick off on Saturday, March 30, 2024.

Russ Brandon, former President and CEO of the XFL, will lead the UFL as President and CEO. Daryl Johnston, former USFL President of Football Operations, will lead football operations.

Today’s news was first announced by Dany Garcia and Dwayne Johnson on FOX NFL Sunday. Additional details about team markets and football operations will be announced very shortly.

Partner Commentary Eric Shanks – Chief Executive Officer

and Executive Producer of FOX Sports: “FOX is football, and the success of the USFL has proven that there’s a bright future for spring football. The opportunity to bring together our two leagues – each with a commitment to advancing broadcast practices, rule innovations and the community – only furthers the potential of the United Football League and solidifies its spot on the sports calendar.”

Jimmy Pitaro, Chairman, ESPN: “The United Football League – a powerful combination of the XFL and USFL – will provide passionate sports fans with an entertaining, innovative, and action-packed season,” Pitaro said.

“With compelling storytelling across traditional and digital platforms, fanfriendly innovations, and tremendous reach, this visionary league is wellpositioned, and we look forward to our continued collaboration.”

Dany Garcia – Founder, CEO and Chairwoman of The Garcia Companies: “This new venture is possible because of a shared visionary mindset, a profound passion for the game, and first-hand experience living and creating the opportunities that football makes possible. As a unified spring league, we are able to deepen our commitment to unlocking and surpassing the dreams of our players, coaches, staff and fans. This league represents continued legacy and

evolution, and we look forward to building the universe of spring football.”

Dwayne Johnson – Founder and CEO of Seven Bucks Companies: “From day one, our mission has been to expand the game of football and be a league of opportunity, culture and innovation. As we come together to create the UFL, we can build something powerful, exciting and very cool for football fans - a spring league with lasting impact for all the players with a dream to play pro football and the ‘hardest workers in the room’ mentality to make their dreams come true.”

Gerry Cardinale – Founder and Managing Partner of RedBird Capital Partners: “When you combine the entertainment and marketing expertise of Dwayne Johnson and Dany Garcia, the broadcast and network reach of FOX and ESPN, and the strategic capital and company building mentality of RedBird, there is a tremendous opportunity to achieve something unique – a valuable and scalable live event entertainment platform that will continue to work closely with the NFL on innovation and player development and have a legitimate shot at becoming one of the top professional leagues in the country after the big four. ” Follow Danny on instagram @ DannyPicard.

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SPORTS TODAY BELICHICK Tweet of PREPARES FOR the Week POTENTIAL FINAL GAME WITH PATRIOTS

C

WHATTOWATCH NFL SATURDAY, JAN. 6 WEEK 18 Pittsburgh at Baltimore (+3.5) 4:30 P.M. ABC/ESPN

Houston at Indianapolis (+1.5) 8:15 P.M. ABC/ESPN SUNDAY, JAN. 7 NY Jets at New England (-2.5) 1 P.M. FOX LA Rams at San Francisco (-3) 4:25 P.M. FOX Philadelphia at NY Giants (+5.5) 4:25 P.M. CBS Buffalo at Miami (+3) 8:20 P.M. NBC NCAAF MONDAY, JAN. 8 National Championship #2 Washington vs #1 Michigan (-4.5) 7:30 P.M. ESPN

SBT Staff

ould it be the end of an era?

This Sunday at Gillette Stadium, the New England Patriots host the New York Jets in the final game of the regular season.

The outcome of the game has no bearing on the either team’s playoff spot. They’ve both been eliminated from contention. All that really matters is the 2024 Draft order. Except, there might be one more thing to keep an eye on.

And that’s Bill Belichick.

Rumors have emerged that don’t give much hope for Belichick’s return to the Patriots next season, ending his 24-year tenure with the organization. And quite a historic tenure it was.

But apparently, that history won’t matter when it comes to the decision

that owner Robert Kraft is reportedly ready to make, and has been ready to make for a few months.

Earlier this month, NBC Sports Boston’s Tom E. Curran reported that Patriots ownership had decided to move on from Belichick after the Patriots’ embarrassing loss to the Indianapolis Colts in Germany in Week 10.

“When they came out of Germany, conversations I had that week made it very clear that a decision was made,” said Curran on TV. “They were going to play out the string, and at the end of the year, there would be a parting of the ways for a variety of reasons.”

Presumably, one of those reasons was a third losing season in four years since Tom Brady departed for Tampa Bay. Since Brady’s exit,

Belichick has led the Pats to just one winning season, in 2021, when they went 10-7 and lost in the Wild Card round of the playoffs.

Another reason would be an inability to find a quarterback who’s capable of being the next franchise guy.

From signing Cam Newton, to drafting Mac Jones, to benching Jones in favor of Bailey Zappe, Belichick just hasn’t been able to pick the right QB for the future or the now.

If the season ended today, the 4-12 Patriots would have the No. 3 overall pick. With that pick, they’d be guaranteed to get a very good quarterback. But now, the question is, will Belichick even be the guy to make that decision?

On Monday, a day after losing to the Bills in Buffalo in Week 17,

RED SOX SIGN GIOLITO, TRADE SALE TO ATLANTA

I

January 4, 2024

t had been a brutally quiet offseason for the Boston Red Sox up until last weekend, when they made two moves that perhaps raise even more questions about the team’s roster in 2024.

The first move was signing veteran right-handed starter Lucas Giolito to a two-year, $38.5 million deal, which includes a

player opt-out after the first year.

The second move was a trade with the Atlanta Braves, as the Red Sox sent Chris Sale to Atlanta in exchange for infielder Vaughn Grissom. Boston also sent $17 million of Sale’s $27.5 million salary in 2024 to the Braves.

Grissom, who turns 23 this month, was drafted by the Braves

in 2019, and has spent most of his professional career in the minors. He’s under team control through 2029.

Giolito, 29, is entering his ninth season in the majors, having spent most of his career with the Chicago White Sox from 2017-2023.

The Red Sox say goodbye to

Belichick was asked about his “level of desire” to return to new England next season. Per usual, Belichick said he was just focused on the Jets.

“Yeah, I’m focused on getting ready for the Jets,” said Belichick.

“We haven’t played them in a long time, been all season, so I’m going to work on the Jets here and get ready to go.”

Then, when asked about what his time in new England meant to him, Belichick was still not ready to reminisce.

“I’ll deal with that some other time,” said Belichick. “Right now, it’s trying to get the team ready for the Jets, finish up the Buffalo game, continue to coach the team and try to help the players and the team play better.”

He truly is one of a kind.

the 34-year-old Sale, who is under contract through 2025.

Sale has battled injuries over the past four seasons, making just 31 total starts from 2020-2023.

On Tuesday, the team announced their spring training schedule, with the first game being on Friday, Feb, 23 against Northeastern.

Truck Day will be on Monday, Feb. 5. Pitchers and Catchers officially report on Wednesday, Feb. 14.