SouthBoston
A Thanksgiving Breakthrough In The Middle East
Is ‘Peace Through Strength’ just a political slogan. Not if you are Israel. Motivated by self-preservation and with a strong, focused reprisal towards a vengeful aggressor, Israel has delivered a thanksgiving gift to its people and the people of Lebanon.
Hezbollah had fired thousands of rockets, missiles and drones into Israel. In its reprisal, Israel launched an air campaign and ground invasion against Hezbollah in late September. The effects of that set the stage for President Joe Biden to be able to announce a ceasefire deal to end 13 months of fighting between Israel and, with
IThanksgiving 2024The Tradition Remains
t’s safe to say that nearly every American knows the story of how the Thanksgiving holiday came to be. It’s a story of hardship being overcome by success that finally led to the first Thanksgiving feast where the Pilgrims gave thanks to the local natives and of course to God for the bountiful food that was finally available which enabled them to survive.
The Pilgrims were seeking freedom from the religious persecution they had suffered in England and courageously set sail for the new world. Packing all the belongings they could carry onto what
would now be considered a tiny, unsafe and very fragile ship; they made the perilous journey and landed on the east coast of what is now America. This is history; most of us know this from our lessons at school. But what many may have forgotten was that this was not the beginning of what is today a uniquely American holiday. The first Thanksgiving, celebrated in the autumn of 1620 was not observed in the years following. It became an official holiday in 1863, when President Abraham Lincoln proclaimed it to be so and it has been an American tradition ever since.
Today, Americans often sit down to sumptuous turkey dinners with all the ‘fixins’ and still give thanks to God for all that we have in our country. This is often followed by watching football games and taking part in other first Thanksgiving feasts. However they do seem pretty sure that sumptuous holiday activities; one of which for some could simply be an after dinner nap while waiting for dessert and coffee. Historians still aren’t positive that turkey was part main courses like wild duck, goose, venison and even clams and lobster were high at the top of the menu
followed by fruits such as plums and boiled pumpkin. No pumpkin pie. But happily, turkeys today are plentiful and if cooked just right, delicious and now cooked by several different methods. Though tradition still reigns on Thanksgiving Day, much has changed since that first feast in 1621. The 46 surviving Pilgrims, were joined and helped by 91 American Indians and together they worked hard and in cooperation at making sure that from then on, food and shelter; two things that were certainly a must for survival in those days in such a harsh environment, would follow and endure well into the future. Today, what often follows a relaxing Thanksgiving holiday spent with friends and family is frenzied shopping sprees and a head long
rush into the Christmas Season and all the hustle and bustle that comes with it. And this is something that millions of Americans also look forward to. Times change for sure, but the good thing about this very special holiday is that even though in this modern age; nearly four centuries since the first Thanksgiving feast was enjoyed, where things are so much different with new customs and habits, most Americans still hold on to part of that tradition. It’s what caused this Thanksgiving holiday of 2024, to begin the same way back when the Mayflower first landed at Plymouth Rock. And that is an appreciation of family, good friends and neighbors helping neighbors and slowing down, even if it’s just for a day to give thanks for all that we have in America.
The MaryAnn Brett Food Pantry received a wonderful surprise this past weekend with a donation of $5,000 from Hanscom Federal Credit Union and its President, Peter Rice.
IInformation Center The The Left Howls Over Trump’s Cabinet Picks - That’s A Good Sign
Note: talk back to John Ciccone by email at jciccone@southbostontoday.com
n a recent column, I touched on the insane meltdowns the media, Hollywood, leaders of the Democrat Party and especially the mental dwarfs that host the late night TV (used to be comedy) shows were having in response to the election results. Well, it continues and while some who dwell in that liberal bubble have resigned themselves to the fact that their days of wielding power are coming to an end and acknowledge the need to try to make nice with Trump and the will of the American people, others are getting even crazier. The latest ‘outrage’ as they see it, is the cabinet picks and choices for other high level positions that President Elect Trump has been selecting. They’re calling the picks horrible, racist, mind numbingly bad and crazy. Can you believe these people calling Trump’s picks crazy when they were/are just fine with the America hating leftist radicals in the Biden/Harris cabinet? They were just fine with Lloyd Austin as the Secretary of Defense. Austin, along with his side kick General Milley, will go down in history for trying to turn our nation’s military into a woke social experiment that focused on progressive gender issues and the use of pronouns. He went missing from the job for 2 full weeks and didn’t tell anyone where he was. Trump’s nominee is Pete Hegseth, a battle hardened combat veteran with an intricate knowledge of military affairs and the workings of the Pentagon and who has vowed to return the military into a combat ready organization more than capable of defending our country. Tom Homan is Trump’s pick to be the new ‘Border Tzar’. Homan has the experience dealing with the southern border and will see to it that the illegal flood comes to a screeching halt. Homan
is especially hated by progressives because he can’t be bullied and takes a hard line on making sure our borders are secure once again.
Former Congressman Sean Duffy will be the guy put in charge as Secretary of Transportation replacing Pete Buttigieg – the former mayor of South Bend Indiana. Buttigieg did a terrible job as mayor and is famous for ignoring the deadly train wreck in East Palestine, Ohio. He wouldn’t even visit the site until he was shamed into going there because former President Trump DID go there and offered his personal wealth and financial support. Tulsi Gabbard will make a great Director of the National Intelligence Agency and weed out what is perceived to be quite a bit of corruption under the Democrats. Congresswoman Elise Stefanik will make an excellent UN Ambassador who will see to it that America’s best interests are finally protected in that useless and hopefully soon to be obsolete organization. And there will be many other fine nominees that will make President Trump’s cabinet one that is filled with true patriots who understand that they are there to work for every American citizen on Trump’s behalf and not for the entrenched D.C. Establishment.
Guess who’s in the news again making a spectacle of herself. Why it’s none other than one of the ladies of The View. There seems to be a competition for the title of the most obnoxious member of that panel with the front runners being Whoopi Goldberg and Joy Behar. As most people know after last week’s incident, Whoopi has taken the lead. As the story goes, Ms Goldberg went on a rant claiming that a Staten Island, New York bakery, Holtermann’s Bakery, refused to fill a dessert order for her because of her liberal politics.
The bakery’s owner denied that accusation. When the facts were learned, the bakery had problems with the equipment – which has since been verified to be true. But Whoopi of course; at least as of this writing has refused to apologize. You see, she’s much too important a person to say she’s sorry for once again making a fool of herself in what now appears to be her attempt to bring negative publicity down on that family owned place of business.
The publicity itself had just the opposite effect. In response to Goldberg’s rants and accusations, the
Bakery has been overwhelmed with support and its business has increased by leaps and bounds as the orders for pastries etc. are flooding in in such numbers that’s it hard to fill them all. Whoopi Goldberg’s popularity has taken a drastic nose dive ever since she became one of the raging lunatics on what is considered one of the most toxic TV Shows on the air. The once popular actress who was great in the Sister Act movies and other great films over the years has become insufferable and just plain nasty. And her buddy Joy Behar and the rest of the panel on The View are close behind.
SOUTH BOSTON TODAY
John Ciccone
Reviving the $20 Minimum Wage Debate
For the first time in years, Massachusetts didn’t raise its minimum wage in 2024, a trend that will continue in 2025.
The $15 threshold reached in 2023 took advocates years to nail down and was the final step in a five-year gradual increase as part of the socalled Grand Bargain. Immediately following the change, advocates began stirring about raising it to $20. Some patches of support existed in the Legislature, too — Sen. Jason Lewis and Reps. Tram Nguyen and Dan Donahue all filed legislation this session, though it stalled in the Committee on Labor and Workforce Development after a legislative hearing late last year.
In 2024, the clamoring for a $20 minimum wage has been relatively quiet, perhaps a result of the noise surrounding a different minimum wage conversation specific to tipped workers. Voters rejected that concept by a wide margin, siding with powerful voices within the business community that championed industry and
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.
consumer affordability concerns.
Following that vote, backers of a $20 wage — a much further-reaching idea than the tipped wage-only idea on the ballot — face a different outlook this time around. But proponents point to the rising cost of living in Massachusetts, and the need for fair wages for lower-paid workers, as a different side to the affordability argument.
One of the push’s largest proponents has been Raise Up Mass, a group that said earlier this year it’s committed to the “long-term fight” whether it be via legislation or ballot measure. Raise Up has a track record of success, most recently securing voter approval for an income surtax in 2022.
As next session’s priorities slowly line up for lawmakers and advocates alike, Nguyen’s office couldn’t confirm that she will refile the measure; similarly, Raise Up only said the idea is “something we’re looking at.” Lewis, however, confirmed to MASSterList that he will be filing legislation again to gradually raise the minimum wage to $20 per hour, and to “contin-
ue this important conversation about supporting our state’s workforce.”
Beverly, Marblehead teachers strikes end, schools open Wednesday
After 12 days of no school in Beverly and 11 days in Marblehead, teachers in both towns reached tentative agreements Tuesday enabling students and teachers to return to school on Wednesday. Among other changes, the Beverly Teachers Association said paraprofessionals will now see wages rise more than 65 percent over the course of three years, teachers will also see salary raises, and educators will have six months of paid parental leave. Marblehead educators said they agreed to significant increases in pay, increased classroom safety and progress towards increased parental leave. In Marblehead, voters will have to approve a Proposition 2 1/2 override to fully fund the new four-year contracts. The days missed will likely be a made up with a combination of adding them onto the end of the school year and taking up traditional vacation days.
AG says she has no role to play,
yet, in Question 1 debate
Attorney General Andrea Campbell said Tuesday on Boston Public Radio that her office has no role to play right now in the conversation about Question 1 enforcement. The ballot measure that overwhelmingly passed to allow the state auditor’s office to audit the Legislature has been the subject of heated back-and-forth between legislative leaders and Auditor Diana DiZoglio, who is urging top Democrats to comply with her office’s attempted probe. DiZoglio has pushed for Campbell’s office to get involved, but Campbell said because the question passed doesn’t go into effect until 30 days post-certification, her involvement, if necessary, would be further down the road. Once the 30 days are up, the Legislature can respond to the auditor’s requests; if either of the two parties don’t agree, they can create a legal dispute, which could prompt the AG’s office to act.
Campbell also mentioned on Tuesday that she does not support the inclusion of a policy in the new jobs law that protects BlueHub Capital, the Roxbury nonprofit that has been accused of predatory lending.
The Salvation Army Hosts 9th Annual Sounds of Christmas Concert
On Sunday, December 8 at 6 p.m., The Salvation Army Massachusetts Division will be presenting its 9th annual Sounds of Christmas Concert. The free event at The Salvation Army Boston Kroc Center (650 Dudley Street, Dorchester) will feature festive music and holiday refreshments. Featured performances include music from The Salvation Army’s 40-piece brass band, the Massachusetts Divisional Chorus,
and nearly 100 young people from Salvation Army centers across Massachusetts showcasing dance, timbrel and vocal talents.
The Salvation Army is one of the largest music providers in the world. The nonprofit’s music programs teach people, regardless of age, how to sing and play instruments at no cost. These skills are utilized in a myriad of ways such as playing in a Salvation Army band, singing in a choir, performing in dance and arts, or playing an instrument at one of The Salvation Army’s iconic Red Kettles during the holidays.
For more information about The Salvation Army’s music program and Sounds of Christmas Concert, visit: salvationarmyma.org.
REP. BIELE’S LEGISLATION TO ESTABLISH LIVE THEATER TAX CREDITS SIGNED INTO LAW
Incentive program will support direct jobs with secondary benefits to tourism and hospitality industries
Recently, the Massachusetts Legislature passed a comprehensive economic development bill, including nearly $4 billion in investment authorizations as well as numerous policy initiatives, to support the Massachusetts economy.
One such initiative included in the sweeping economic development package was legislation filed by State Representative David Biele (D-Boston) to create a live theater tax credit program in Massachusetts. Under the program, producers of Pre-Broadway and National Tour launches will be eligible for tax credits
to offset in-state labor costs and other production costs to attract these large-scale, long-running productions to Massachusetts by authorizing $7 million in total tax credits each year.
Historically, Massachusetts was once a top destination for PreBroadway and National Tours launches. However, the number of launches has decreased in recent years as eight other states— including neighboring Rhode Island and New York—have created live theater tax incentive packages, luring those productions away from Massachusetts with each
Shop Small This Holiday Season
By CHRISTOPHER CARLOZZI
The Christmas holiday shopping season has once again arrived, and it is an important time to shop in our local communities. Small businesses are the lifeblood of our neighborhoods, not solely in terms of jobs and powering our economy, but in the character, value, and charm they bring to our Main Streets.
There are far too many empty storefronts, quiet downtowns, and
Christopher Carlozzi is the Massachusetts Director of the National Federation of Independent Business. continued on page 6
struggling small businesses across Massachusetts. Main Street is still grappling with elevated inflation, high utility costs, changing consumer habits, and other economic pressures. But there is a way consumers can help – by shopping and dining at local, independently-owned businesses right where we live and work. Sixty-seven cents of every dollar spent at a local small business is reinvested in the community, and small businesses support our local tax base, governments, and schools,
while also enriching our communities. A staggering 90% of small business owners have financially supported community or civic groups, including youth sports leagues, community events, charities, and school programs. Small businesses support us, and we need to support them.
During this busy time of year, there is a temptation to order online from retail giants and big box stores for the sake of convenience, but we cannot and should not forget about
our neighbors, friends, and family who own small businesses. The 15th annual Small Business Saturday is on November 30th, and it serves as a reminder for all of us to visit our Main Street businesses for great deals and first-class service. Shop small and local this Saturday and throughout the entire holiday season, or even better, the year ahead.
Hezbollah, the Lebanese militia supported by Iran.
In a joint statement, the US and France said the agreement would cease fighting in Lebanon and “secure Israel from the threat of Hezbollah and other terrorist organizations”.
What is known about the ceasefire deal from official briefings and media reports is that the ceasefire is meant to be permanent. President Biden told reporters that the agreement was “designed to be a permanent ceasefire”.
Under the terms of the ceasefire, over a period of 60 days, Hezbollah will remove its fighters and weapons from the area between the Blue Line - the unofficial border between Lebanon and Israel - and the Litani River, about 20 miles to the north. Hezbollah fighters will be replaced by Lebanese army forces in that area, who will ensure that infrastructure or weaponry is removed and that it cannot be rebuilt, according to a senior US official.
Over the same 60 days, Israel will
gradually withdraw its remaining forces and civilians, Biden said, adding that it would enable civilians on both sides of the border to return to their homes.
The Lebanese army is expected to deploy 5,000 troops to the south under the agreement, according to a US official. However, questions remain about their role in enforcing the ceasefire, and whether they would confront Hezbollah if needed, which would have the potential to exacerbate tensions in a country where sectarian divisions run deep.
The Lebanese army has also said it does not have the resources - money, manpower and equipment - to fulfil its obligations under the deal, although that could be alleviated by contributions from some of Lebanon’s international allies.
But many Western officials say Hezbollah has been weakened and that this is the moment for the Lebanese government to re-establish control over all the country’s territory. The agreement largely tracks UN Security Council resolution 1701,
which ended the 2006 war between Israel and Hezbollah. Under resolution 1701, areas south of the Litani should be free of any armed personnel or weapons other than those of the Lebanese state and the UN peacekeeping force Unifil. But both sides claimed violations of the resolution. Israel says Hezbollah was allowed to build extensive infrastructure in the area, while Lebanon says Israel’s violations included military flights over its territory.
This time, the US and France will join the existing tripartite mechanism, which involves Unifil, Lebanon and Israel, which will be charged with monitoring violations, the senior US official said. “There will be no US combat troops in the area, but there will be military support for the Lebanese Armed Forces, as we’ve done in the past. But in this case, it’ll be typically done with the Lebanese army and in conjunction with the French military as well,” the official said.
Alluding to Israeli concerns, Biden said: “Hezbollah terrorist
infrastructure in southern Lebanon will not be allowed to be rebuilt.” Prime Minister Netanyahu said that Israel would “maintain full freedom of military action” in Lebanon “with the United States’ full understanding”. “If Hezbollah violates the agreement and tries to arm itself, we will attack. If it tries to rebuild terrorist infrastructure near the border, we will attack. If it launches a rocket, if it digs a tunnel, if it brings in a truck carrying rockets, we will attack,” he asserted.
Biden supported that view, telling reporters: “If Hezbollah or anyone else breaks the deal and poses a direct threat to Israel, then Israel retains the right to self-defense consistent with international law.”
But he also said the deal upholds Lebanon’s sovereignty. The Israeli demand for the right to strike back is not believed to be part of the ceasefire agreement because it was rejected by Lebanon. To get around the issue, media reports had suggested that the US would issue a letter supporting Israel’s right to act.
state experiencing corresponding increases in new revenue and economic impact.
For example, Rhode Island has launched more than 20 PreBroadway and National Tour live theater productions since establishing the state’s tax credit program and reported a return on
investment of $8 for every $1 in state investment, while upstate New York has seen 19 such productions launch since establishing a live theater tax credit with over $103 million in new revenue and a return on investment of $10 for every $1 spent on tax credits. In terms of economic impact in Massachusetts, one of the
last live theater productions to launch in the Commonwealth before going to Broadway was “Moulin Rouge!” which sold over 52,000 tickets for its 17week run—with more than half of tickets sold to out-of-state theater goers. The secondary economic impacts from “Moulin Rouge!” generated an estimated $4 million spent on restaurants accompanied by an estimated $460,000 in hotel spending.
“This live theater incentive program will eliminate our state’s competitive disadvantage, while supporting direct jobs in our cultural and creative economies for stagehands, ushers, designers, and countless others who rely on a thriving theater industry,” said Rep. Biele. “Equally important, bringing Pre-Broadway and National Tour launches back to Massachusetts will have secondary economic impacts on our travel, tourism and hospitality industries, supporting restaurants, hotels, and their staff, while generating revenue and boosting our local and state economies. I am grateful
to Speaker Mariano, Chair Michlewitz, Chair Parisella and my colleagues in the House of Representatives for their support of this live theater legislation.”
“The more than 1,500 workers of the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees, Local 11, convey their deepest gratitude to Representative David Biele for his tireless efforts and dogged determination in our fight, for more than a decade, to bring about passage of legislation that returns Boston to the position of Premiere Tryout City in the United States,” said Chris Welling, President of IATSE Local 11. Rep. Biele’s legislation was incorporated into the economic development bill passed by the House of Representatives and was ultimately included in the compromise package sent to the Governor’s desk.
The economic development bill, including legislation creating the live theater tax credit program, was signed into law by Governor Maura Healey on November 20, 2024.
Biele continued from page 5
City Of Boston to Host 4th Annual Ship Lighting at Martin’s Park on November 30
Boston’s newest holiday tradition will be held on Saturday, November 30, from 4-6 p.m. in Martin’s Park at the Smith Family Waterfront. Located in the Seaport District and Fort Point neighborhoods, this fourth annual children’s celebration is hosted by the Friends of Martin’s Park and the Boston Parks and Recreation Department.
Located at 64 Sleeper Street, Martin’s Park at the Smith Family Waterfront is a climate-resilient park built in memory of eight-year-old Martin Richard, the youngest victim of the 2013 Boston Marathon bombing. The accessible park provides play opportunities for children, families, and visitors of all abilities.
The Park’s wooden playship is the centerpiece of the space and will be transformed into a beautiful holiday display when the ship, surrounding fencing, and pedestrian bridge are illuminated with over 7,600 feet of white and blue LED lights.
Visitors are encouraged to head inside the park for the celebration, sponsored by the Friends of Martin’s Park and the Boston Parks and Recreation Department, with additional support from presenting sponsor Nan Fung Life Sciences Real Estate and supporting sponsors Martin Richard Foundation, MacKay Construction, WS Development, and Lusterity Design + Events. Refreshments will include eggnog from H.P. Hood, hot cocoa from Tuscan Kitchen, and coffee from Caffe Nero Seaport.
Santa Claus and The Grinch will arrive by boat with the Boston Police Harbor Unit at the Harborwalk and enter the park to switch on the lights. Entertainment will be provided by the acapella group Ball In The House, performing a selection of holiday classics. Special guests include the Boston Red Sox official mascots Wally and Tessie the Green Monsters, and the Seaport’s own Betty the Yeti. The event will be presented by Kim Carrigan of Carrigan and Company Podcast. In addition, the Boston Park
Rangers will be on hand, along with a fire truck from the Boston Fire Department.
The City of Boston celebrates the lighting of Boston’s official 2024 Christmas tree from Nova Scotia on Boston Common on Thursday, December 5, beginning at 6 p.m. This year’s tree is a 48-year-old, 45-foot-tall white spruce donated by Liz and Hugh Ryan of Mattie Settlement, Nova Scotia. The celebration will be immediately followed by the lighting of the trees on Commonwealth Avenue Mall at Arlington Street and Commonwealth Avenue at 8:15 p.m.
Boston’s Official Tree Arrived November 26
The annual gift of an evergreen Christmas tree from Nova Scotia arrived by police escort at Boston Common at approximately 11 a.m. on Tuesday, November 26.
This marks the 53rd year of the annual tree donation, celebrating 107 years of friendship between Boston and Nova Scotia. The tradition honors the people of Boston for their emergency assistance following the devastating 1917 munitions explosion in Halifax Harbor. The first “Tree for Boston” was donated in 1971 by Joseph Slauenwhite from Lunenburg County.
South Boston Chamber of Commerce Christmas Stroll Dec. 5
The South Boston Chamber of Commerce and South Boston Neighborhood Development
Corporation are excited to once again make the Broadway business district and surrounding areas a festive place for the community to shop and dine locally during the holiday season.
The Christmas Stroll will take place on Thursday, Dec. 5 starting at 4 p.m., kicking off our Shop, Dine, and Splurge campaign at our local businesses and restaurants! The Stroll
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Boston’s official 2024 tree is a 30-year-old, 45-foot-tall white spruce donated by Hugh and Liz Ryan of Mattie Settlement, Nova Scotia. Boston’s Chief Climate Officer Brian Swett, Santa Claus, the Boston Park Rangers, and local school children greeted the tree at its final destination near the Boston Visitors Center at 139 Tremont Street. The tree will be lit at approximately 7:55 p.m. on Thursday, December 5, as the City of Boston’s official tree lighting is celebrated on Boston Common from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. The ceremony will be broadcast live on
WCVB Channel 5 starting at 7 p.m.
The annual tree lighting on Boston Common is co-sponsored by the Boston Parks and Recreation Department and title sponsor, The Province of Nova Scotia. The event is supported by presenting sponsor Amazon, signature sponsors Meet Boston and JetBlue, community sponsors Bank of America and Constellation Energy, partner Hilton Boston Park Plaza Hotel, and media sponsors WCVB Channel 5 and the Boston Globe.
Visit Boston.gov/holidaylights for more information and follow our social channels to stay up to date with all the holiday lighting events: @bostonparksdept on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.
Guy The Wine How Sweet It Is!
Since this week is the start of another Big Holiday season, it’s only natural that we look at predominantly white wines for your holiday table. I thought it might be interesting to look at the sweeter side of things, as opposed to the dry side. I think any of the following might be pleasant alternatives to the more traditional, Chardonnay-based whites; also, since it’s a holiday where there’ll undoubtedly be a large number of family and friends, we’ll throw in a really nice Sparkling wine as well…
Robert Mondavi 2020 Moscato d’Oro, Napa Valley ,375mL., ($24.99). This wine is vibrant, with lime blossom, honeysuckle and crushed pineapple on the nose meeting juicy white peach, candied fennel and bright, zesty clementine on the palate. Great as an aperitif or with the meal, you’ll definitely notice the long, lingering finish and the way it stands up to the turkey but doesn’t smother it.
Paradise Peak Sweet Riesling, Washington, ($11.99). Wine Enthusiast says, “A beautiful, aromatic nose of peach and apricot. Concentrated poached pear and ripe apple marry wonderfully together on the palate. The developed, juicy flavors are balanced by bright acidity and a clean finish.”. Not only is this one great with the
main course, but you also find it to be just perfect with that slice of warm apple pie and ice cream.
Bartenura Moscato d’Asti,2022, (15.99). Not realizing how effervescent this Moscato was going to be, I experienced quite the “pop” when I pulled out the cork. More than I was expecting, and it caught me by surprise. In the glass, this wine pours quite bubbly and is very pale straw in color. There was an interesting fizzy head on the top of the liquid upon pouring and the bubbles stayed active for quite some time.
I found the wine to be very tasty and actually thirst-quenching. It’s very much on the sweeter side with flavors of pear and sweet agave. The taste immediately after a fresh pour is less sweet, with more of a crisp melon flavor making its way through. However, with just a little time and air, the wine sweetens up quickly.
2019 Dr. Loosen-Uerziger Wurzgarten Fischerei Riesling, Spätlese, ($33.99). The insanely steep, red soil Ürziger Würzgarten vineyard produces wines of a completely unique nature in the Mosel valley. The wines showcase the typically juicy and precocious fruit of the “spice garden” vineyard, with a rich mouthfeel, brisk acidity, and lingering finish. Spätlese is produced with grapes that have a week or two extra hang time, but still without any botrytis.
Scharffenberger Cellars, Mendocino, Rose Sparkling, NV, ($32.99). Lasting in its gentle scents of apples, buttered toast and green tea, this is a pretty wine without grand ambitions. There’s refinement to the hints of wild strawberry flavor and a smoothness to the finish.
The wine has a pale salmon hue with integrated aromas of fresh raspberry jam and wild strawberries on a cream covered pastry base. The flavors are layered, round, fresh, fruity and long.
Happy Thanksgiving!
Christmas Stroll continued from page 5
will feature Santa Claus riding on an antique fire truck followed by an up-and-coming MusicBall singer.
Santa’s route will go up Old Colony to Dorchester Street on his way to four stops on East and West Broadway (there will be hot chocolate and treats at each stop):
• 4:15 p.m. -- Medal of Honor Park
• 4:45 p.m. -- Library on East Broadway (where Santa will light the tree!)
• 5:15 p.m. -- West Broadway Municipal Parking Lot
• 5:45 p.m. -- Corner of C Street and West Broadway
Participating businesses will be offering incredible savings on Dec. 5; look for a big red bow on their storefronts.
The Original Dickens Carolers will stroll along East Broadway (4-6 p.m.) and the Mistletones will entertain along West Broadway (5-7 p.m.). And free Pedicab rides will be available from 6-8 p.m. to whisk customers to their favorite establishments.
We Give Thanks To Our Seniors!
Last Thursday, the Condon Community Council put together a delicious Thanksgiving luncheon, hosted by St. Peter’s, in the lower hall. Seniors (wisdom givers) were treated not only to lunch and dessert but raffles, gift cards,
European cookie tins and more. Condon staff, BPD – C6, Elected officials, staff members and members of the community did a great job in serving, calling raffles, cleaning up and giving thanks and appreciation to our senior communities, the back-
bone of our neighborhood. It wouldn’t be a true “Southie time” without the Macarena and the Twist being played on the dance floor. It was a great day with great people and hosts. Long ago it was said that Southie had the best dancers and it’s
still true across multi generations. The day ended with the South Boston anthem… Southie Is My Hometown. Looking forward to seeing everyone at the Christmas party to eat, laugh, be merry and rock around the Christmas tree!
MAYOR WU TO HOST BOSTON COMMON TREE LIGHTING ON DECEMBER 5
Mayor Michelle Wu, the Boston Parks and Recreation Department, and title sponsor The Province of Nova Scotia will host Boston’s signature holiday celebration, the 82nd annual Boston Common Tree Lighting, on Thursday, December 5, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. in Boston Common, adjacent to the Visitor’s Information Center at 139 Tremont Street. Mayor Wu will be joined by friends from Nova Scotia. This celebration marks the 53rd year that Nova Scotia has given a tree to the people of Boston as thanks for relief efforts following the December 6, 1917 explosion of a munitions ship in Halifax Harbor. Within 24 hours of the disaster, a train loaded with supplies and emergency personnel traveled from Boston to Nova Scotia to aid in
recovery efforts.
“Every holiday season we celebrate a special tradition with our friends in Nova Scotia to commemorate the warm and meaningful connection between our two communities dating back more than a century,” said Mayor Michelle Wu. “I want to thank Hugh & Liz Ryan and Nova Scotia for donating this beautiful treasure that will shine brightly throughout the holiday season in Boston. The Boston Common Tree lighting brings our residents together through compassion and holiday cheer each winter, and we’re excited to continue the tradition.”
WCVB Channel 5’s Chronicle co-anchors Anthony Everett and Shayna Seymour will host Channel 5’s live broadcast of the event beginning at 7:00 p.m. American
Authors, 5x platinum recording artists, and 2x Grammy nominees who got their start in Boston at Berklee College of Music, will headline with hit songs like “Best Day of My Life” and “Christmas Karaoke”. This year’s entertainment includes Halifax pop singersongwriter Ria Mae, songs from A Christmas Carol performed by the Commonwealth Shakespeare Company, the soulful melodies of Mi’kmaq folk artist and fiddler Morgan Toney, the legendary vocals of Boston-based jazz and gospel icon Renese King, a heartwarming performance by the Boston Children’s Chorus, and more. The official holiday season kickoff in Boston includes the lighting of the City of Boston’s official Christmas tree with approximately 5,000 lights, and the lighting of more than
50,000 lights throughout the Boston Common and Public Garden. This year’s tree is a 48-year-old, 45-foottall white spruce donated by Liz and Hugh Ryan of Mattie Settlement, Nova Scotia.
The holiday lights throughout both parks will light up in sequence shortly before 8:00 p.m. when Mayor Wu is joined onstage by Santa Claus and Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. The show will close with a pyrotechnic display by Pyrotecnico.
First Night® Boston to Lead New England into 2025 Happy Thanksgiving Everyone!
Annual Celebration of New Year’s Eve Returns to City Hall Plaza
First Night® Boston, New England’s largest New Year’s Eve party, returns to City Hall Plaza to celebrate the start of 2025. The free event runs from 12:00 p.m. on Tuesday, December 31, 2024 through 12:30 a.m. on Wednesday, January 1, 2025. With activities and
entertainment for the whole family, First Night will feature a wide range of local musicians, artists, and performers at City Hall Plaza, Boston Common, and other nearby locations.
Annually uniting thousands of Boston’s visitors and residents, First
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Gate of Heaven and St. Brigid Parishes News
We wish Everyone a Very Happy Thanksgiving!...
From all of us in the Gate of Heaven and St. Brigid Parishes Religious Education Program.
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South Boston Catholic Academy News Happy Thanksgiving to All!
All of us at South Boston Catholic Academy and the Early Childhood Center are ready to celebrate Thanksgiving with our families and friends. As you can see from the photos, our students and teachers from SBCA and the ECC are especially ready.
Thank you to all of the South Boston Catholic Academy and Early Childhood families who donated to the two week long canned
food drive. With all of your donations, and the Student Council’s assistance, SBCA and the ECC were able to donate a plethora of food to both the Gate of Heaven and St. Brigid Parishes (St. Vincent de Paul Society Food Pantry at Gate of Heaven Church) and St. Monica’s Food Pantry (at St. Monica’s Church) to help families in preparation for Thanksgiving. A Big
Thank you to Ms. Stephanie Olsen,
our Director of Learning Support and Student Council Adviser, for all her exceptional help and guidance with our wonderful Student Council who organized this event and will be organizing many more events throughout the school year.
On the fourth Thursday of November, people in the United States celebrate Thanksgiving, a national holiday honoring the early settlers and Native Americans who came together to have a historic harvest feast. A Thanksgiving Prayer: Help us, dear Lord, to always maintain hearts filled with gratitude, not just on this
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special day but every day of our lives. May we continue to count it all joy and to give thanks in all things. In Jesus’ name, we offer this prayer of thanksgiving. Amen. “When we give cheerfully and accept gratefully, everyone is blessed.” – Maya Angelou
On behalf of our Principal, Dr. Helenann Civian and all of us at SBCA and the ECC, we wish everyone a Happy Thanksgiving! New families are welcome to email our admissions team at admissions@sbcatholicadacademy.org for more info. about South Boston Catholic Academy.
Red Cross on 2024 trends: Climate crisis creates massive humanitarian needs amid nonstop disaster responses
Donate a gift of any size or give blood during the holidays to provide help and hope
In 2024, the climate crisis mounted an overwhelming toll on people in Massachusetts and across the U.S., who relied on the American Red Cross for relief and care as they faced the country’s second-highest number of billiondollar disasters ever recorded.
This year’s 24 major climate and weather events — each with losses exceeding $1 billion — are topped only by last year’s record-breaking 28. To help, hundreds of Red Cross volunteers from Massachusetts have been part of teams responding nonstop to provide shelter, food and other assistance to tens of thousands of people reeling from this year’s hurricanes, storms, floods and wildfires — all while continuing to care for families still recovering from 2023’s extreme disasters.
“First-hand, I’ve seen the devastation that disasters have caused families this year — and the climate crisis shows no signs of slowing down,” said Holly Grant, CEO of the Massachusetts Red Cross, who responded to Hurricanes Helene and Milton in Georgia this fall. “Whether a crisis happens in our backyard or a community across the country, neighbors are counting on us to help ensure they don’t face it alone. Please join us by making a donation of any size or rolling up a sleeve to give blood or platelets.”
This GivingTuesday and holiday season, visit redcross.org to make a financial donation or an appointment to give blood or platelets. Individuals can also give the gift of time through volunteering.
NEED FOR FOOD IN 2024 NEARLY TRIPLES 5-YEAR NATIONAL AVERAGE Nationally, the scope of disasters increased this year’s demand for necessities like food and emergency lodging — which both exceeded the annual average for the past five years. In fact, this year’s more than 7 million meals and snacks, served by Red Cross volunteers, nearly tripled that average.
Locally, this included recent home fires in Peabody and Southbridge. And on a national scale, volunteers from Massachusetts responded to help during disasters such as the Southeast hurricanes, severe storms, and floods and wildfires in other areas of the country.
RED CROSS BOSTON FOOD
PANTRY: The Red Cross Boston Food Pantry is on the front lines of food insecurity in Massachusetts. In addition to regular pantry days on Wednesdays and Saturdays, the Food Pantry partners with the Greater Boston Food Bank, Boston Public Schools and multiple community organizations to alleviate hunger in sensitive populations, including school aged children, the elderly and low-income residents. 75% of the food distributed is fresh produce. Produce not fit for distribution is saved for composting at local farms.
RESPONDING TO OTHER HUMANITARIAN NEEDS This year, the Red Cross addressed people’s urgent needs in other ways too:
• BLOOD DONATIONS: Millions of blood donors nationwide, including in Massachusetts helped overcome a significant number of blood drive cancellations due to the country’s severe weather and heat, including more than 5,400 drives statewide. This support was critical because as the nation’s largest blood supplier, the Red Cross helped ensure patients continued accessing lifesaving treatment during major disasters by prepositioning blood products near areas likely to be impacted — including in Georgia and Florida for Hurricane Helene and in Florida again just days later for Hurricane Milton. To celebrate 30 years of FRIENDS, all who come to give blood or platelets Nov. 18-Dec. 8 will receive two pairs of custom FRIENDS + Red Cross socks, while supplies last, in partnership with Warner Bros. Discovery Global Consumer Products. See RedCrossBlood.org/Friends for details.
• LIFESAVING TRAINING: With emergency rooms experiencing a spike in heat illness
visits amid the country’s extreme temperatures, Red Cross instructors empowered millions of people — including more than 33,900 in Massachusetts — this year with vital first aid, CPR and AED skills to help them prevent and respond to heat stroke and heat exhaustion.
• MILITARY FAMI-
LIES: Through our 24/7, global Hero Care Network, local Red Cross workers supported military members, veterans and their families in Massachusetts this year through almost 800 case services, such as connecting deployed service members and loved ones during family emergencies. Nationally, this also included answering thousands of calls from military families affected by this year’s hurricanes — including Helene and Milton — and connecting them with military aid societies to help facilitate recovery assistance.
Visit redcross.org/MA for more information about how the Red Cross of Massachusetts helped people in 2024.
About Our Regional Holiday Supporters:
The Red Cross is grateful for corporate partners who contribute to make the mission of the Red Cross possible. They include regional partners Takeda, TJX, New Balance Foundation, Liberty Mutual, EG America, Vertex Foundation, GE Vernova, DraftKings, National Grid and Public Consulting Group. Thanks to the generosity of these and other supporters, the Red Cross is able to bring help and hope to people in need.
About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.
First Night continued from page 12 Night brings dazzling ice sculptures, the First Night Boston Parade, a laser and pyrotechnic show, and two sets of fireworks to excited audiences. Showcasing talents from hiphop to country, and jazz to classical, back-to-back performances will make up a full schedule, now available at www.firstnightboston.org.
Performances include children’s music at Boston City Hall’s Civic Pavillion, arts and crafts within City Hall, while strings, keys, and voices across all genres of musical talent will delight crowds from the event’s main stage. Outdoor performances begin at 2:00 p.m. and continue past the stroke of midnight. New this year, performances at Boston Public Market and Cambridgeside Galleria will provide indoor venues for daytime programming. The 6:00 p.m. parade from City Hall Plaza will lead into the 7:00 p.m. fireworks above Boston Common, and the midnight fireworks above Boston Harbor will again set the city aglow.
Steeped in tradition, the world’s longest-running First Night celebration has delighted audiences for decades. Among the event’s leading sponsors are Meet Boston, Amazon, the Hyatt Regency and the Massachusetts Convention Center Authority. Interested donors are invited to visit www. firstnightboston.org, where donations of any amount can be easily made.
For more information on First Night® Boston 2025 please visit www.FirstNightBoston.org or follow on Facebook, @FirstNight on Twitter, @firstnightboston on Instagram, or follow the conversation using #FirstNightBoston.
About First Night Boston First Night® Boston is a project of Boston Celebrations, Inc. Boston Celebrations is a 501 (C) (3) nonprofit organization that hosts the annual New Year’s Eve celebration in the city of Boston. The citywide celebration features family-friendly traditions such as a parade from City Hall Plaza to Boston Common; handcrafted ice sculptures; performances from local musicians and artists, and of course, the highly anticipated “First Night Countdown” to the New Year. All First Night Boston activities are free and open to the public. For more information and a list of events, visit www.firstnightboston.org.
FromSouthBoston Today Happy Thanksgiving
Hearts, Hugs &
Hope
Alzheimer’s Support Group at Compass on the Bay
December 19, 2024, 5:00 pm at Compass on the Bay Assisted Living and Memory Support Community, 1380 Columbia Road, South Boston. Dealing with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementia isn’t easy, so it is helpful to share your concerns and personal experiences with others who completely understand what you’re going through. You will also learn about proven strategies to help you better care for your family member. This group is held both in person and virtually. Contact Director of Compass Programming Erin Bollinger at 617-268-5450 or email ebollinger@compasssonthebay.com to RSVP by December 16 and to receive the virtual meeting link.
It’s tough to watch, that’s for sure.
The Patriots got whooped by the Miami Dolphins on Sunday, 34-15, and are now 3-9 on the season. Which means, it’s no longer about this season. It’s about the upcoming Draft and next season.
But here’s what Jerod Mayo had to say on Monday, a day after the Dolphins loss, as the Pats get ready to take on the Indianapolis Colts at Gillette Stadium this Sunday:
JEROD MAYO: Yeah, still felt the same way after watching the film. Just a very disappointing performance overall. Like I said last night, it starts with me, the coaches and the players just going out there and executing, which we did not do yesterday. I would say offensively, the turnovers continue to be an issue. Protection continues to be an issue. Also, the penalties. It was from the very start. I think we had four or five penalties in the first quarter, which we’ve seen this at certain times during the season. I thought we had it corrected, but obviously not. It comes down to really just focus
and concentration, especially when you’re on the road. It’s the pre-snap stuff, the operational things that you get frustrated by. We have to clean that up. Defensively, did a better job in the run game, but then you give up the big plays. We knew where they wanted to throw the ball and we knew that they had some fast guys out there. We just weren’t able to go out there and get in the windows that we’ve talked about all week. Had to do a better job there. Obviously, our tackling, it always goes back to fundamentals. We can talk about X’s and O’s all you want. It comes back to fundamentals. Block destruction, tackling and attacking the ball. Those things definitely did not show up yesterday. I would say special teams, besides the missed field goal, nothing of note there. Overall, we have to get better. That starts this week. It’s a weird week with Thanksgiving being on Thursday, but we have to work. We have to go out there and practice. We have to go out there in pads and we have to continue to get better. That’s always been my focus with this team.
Q: Morning, Jerod. Jonathan
This week,
Danny shared his thoughts on the New England Patriots after losing their ninth game of the season in Week 12:
Jones and Kyle Dugger both talked about players not being locked in last night and a lack of focus. What do you think led to some of that? Is it on coaches to not only make sure the guys are locked in and focused, but to put players who are locked in and focused on the field?
JM: My thing with that, we had our night before the game meeting and the guys were definitely locked in and focused. Then you get out there on the field and you could see some of the communication problems that were happening on the field. Now, it’s easy to say, ‘we’ll just put a guy here, put a guy in, take this guy out.’ Then you have to think about who you’re putting in there. That’s kind of where we are right now.
Q: After a loss like that, what does a team meeting look like, whether it’s today, tomorrow or whenever?
JM: Yeah, look, those are those hard meetings where you have to address the elephant in the room, but it’s no secret. The good thing about the sport, it’s all recorded. You can go back and forth on it, but the film doesn’t lie.
Q: Good morning, Jerod.
Christian Barmore got a sack yesterday. Just knowing everything he’s gone through this season with the possibility of not even being able to play, what was it like to see him have a moment like that?
JM: In the moment, I was really just focused on the game. Looking back at it on film, so happy for him to get back out there on the field. It’s what he truly loves to do.
Q: What did you see from him throughout the process of getting better? He mentioned he was told he would not play this season. Three months later, he was back out there. What did you see in his recovery process that allowed him to get out on the field this year?
JM: Yeah, it’s a credit to our medical staff. I would also say I think he would rather be pleasantly surprised by coming back early than severely disappointed when you try to say, ‘all right, you’ll be back in a couple of months.’ Look, he did everything he needed to do, checked every box, and it’s good to have him out there. Follow Danny on instagram @ DannyPicard.
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SPORTS TODAY
BRUINS FIRE MONTGOMERY, NAME SACCO INTERIM HEAD COACH Tweet of the Week
It’s a long season, and the Boston Bruins find themselves in the middle of the pack in the Eastern Conference, just 20 games in, but the organization felt it needed a change, and decided to fire head coach Jim Montgomery.
As a result, the team named Associate Coach Joe Sacco the new interim head coach to replace Montgomery for the time being.
Through the first 22 games of the season, the Bruins are 10-9-3.
Here’s the full press release from the Bruins, which includes comments from General Manager Don Sweeney and President Cam Neely:
BOSTON – Boston Bruins General Manager Don Sweeney announced today, November 19, that the team has relieved Jim Montgomery of his duties as Head Coach. Associate Coach Joe Sacco will assume interim head coaching duties. Montgomery served as Head Coach of the team since July 1, 2022.
Statement from General Manager Don Sweeney:
“Today, I made a very difficult decision with regards to a coaching change. Jim Montgomery is a very good NHL coach and an even better person. He has made a positive impact throughout the Bruins organization, and I am both grateful and appreciative of the opportunity to work with him and learn from him.
Jim’s accomplishments as the Bruins head coach include a record-breaking and historic season, and I want to thank his entire family and wish him, Emily, J.P., Colin, Ava and Olivia all the success and happiness with their next opportunity. Our team’s inconsistency and performance in the first 20 games of the 2024-25 season has been concerning and below how the Bruins want to reward our fans. I believe Joe Sacco has the coaching experience to bring the players and the team back to focusing on the consistent effort the NHL requires to have success. We will continue to work to make the necessary adjustments to meet the standard and performance our supportive fans expect.”
Statement from President Cam Neely:
“On behalf of the Boston Bruins, we thank Jim Montgomery for his accomplishments and impact on our organization. Jim’s open and honest communication with players, staff and management, as well as the positive attitude that he brought to the rink every day, helped lead our franchise to several on-ice accolades, including a historic 65-win season in 2022-23. We wish Jim and his family the best moving forward both personally and professionally. I’m supportive of Don’s decision to address our current play and performance. Joe Sacco has a wealth of experience and knowledge of our roster and can
help lead our team in the right direction. He has a strong understanding of our standards and expectations, and I trust he will do all he can to accomplish our organization’s goals this season.”
Biography for Interim Head Coach Joe Sacco:
Sacco is in his 11th season behind the Bruins bench, where he most recently served as Associate Coach. He previously held the role of Assistant Coach from 2014-24.
Before joining the Bruins organization, Sacco served as an Assistant Coach for the Buffalo Sabres in 2013-14, and as Head Coach for the Colorado Avalanche from 2009-13, where he compiled an overall record of 130-134-40. In 2010, he was
named a finalist for the Jack Adams Award, given annually to the coach who has contributed the most to his team’s success, after leading the Avalanche to a 43-30-9 record in his first season at the helm. Sacco also previously held several coaching positions in the American Hockey League (AHL) from 2004-09, with the Lake Erie Monsters, Albany River Rats and Lowell Lock Monsters.
The Medford, Massachusetts native was a fourth-round NHL draft pick of the Toronto Maple Leafs out of Boston University. In 738 career NHL games with Philadelphia, Washington, N.Y. Islanders, Anaheim and Toronto, the forward recorded 94 goals and 119 assists for 213 points over 13 NHL season.
SBT Staff
