AG Campbell Skeptical Of Proposed Law
Banning ICE Agents From Wearing Masks
Campbell said she’s concerned by ICE’s tactics but cautioned that state authorities have little power over federal agents.
Attorney General Andrea Campbell expressed skepticism Tuesday about potential state legislation that would seek to ban law enforcement officers, including those at the federal level like ICE agents, from wearing masks to conceal their identities.
As federal immigration agents continue to operate in Massachusetts while wearing masks, there appears to be growing support in the State House for a bill that would prohibit the practice.
Campbell was asked about the legislation during an appearance
God Bless Our Veterans on Veterans Day and Every Day
rmy, Navy, Marines, Air Force, Coast Guard, it doesn’t matter in which branch of the United States Armed Forces our veterans served. Those men and women put their private lives on hold for the purpose of defending our very way of life. To serve one’s country; often putting themselves in harm’s way to do their part to protect their fellow countrymen and women is something each and every American should be grateful for. Tuesday, November 11th, has officially been designated as Veteran’s Day – a federal holiday. But in the hearts, minds and souls of most South Bostonians, every day makes us proud of
those who have served and still do. The different branches of the service have full time active military as well as reservists and of course we have the National Guard. All of them – every last one of them, who wear the uniform of our country, serve a vital purpose; they protect us all. Since our nation was founded more than 200 years ago, to the present year of 2025, the United States Military has been the life line that has allowed America to continue to exist and to prosper. If not for our veterans throughout our history, there would be no America today. It’s just that simple. Our military has also been a force for good that has literally saved the world from falling victim to brutal and cruel forces of corrupt monarchies early in our history, and in modern times, from the evil that is Communism and Fascism. Today, the added challenge is terrorism which if given the green light, they
will meet it head on anytime and in any place. But it’s not just during war time that US troops save the day. During times of peace, when and where there are natural disasters anywhere in the world, the American military rushes to the rescue. Our veterans can take pride in who they are and what they’ve accomplished. They have earned the respect, the love and the pride America feel for them. Our Veterans deserve very special praise, not just on Veteran’s Day but every day. From the entire South Boston Today Team to every veteran and their family members, we say God Bless You and Thank You all, so much, for your service and for your sacrifice. Americans are not just proud of all of you, we understand how fortunate we are as part of the greatest nation on earth, that throughout our history, you have been there and have had this nation’s back.
SInformation Center The
Election Results Aren’t Always What They Seem
ome comments on the Blue State election results from last Tuesday. The silly Democrat Party leadership is gloating because they won a few races in contests they were expected to win anyway. Was this actually a setback for Republicans nationwide? In the long run, not even close and here’s why. What they managed to accomplish (in addition to the eventual destruction of New York City); was some short term boasting points but long term erosion of their numbers. (Data shows that in the last few years, registered Democrats lost 2.2 million voters, while Republican voters gained 2.4 million. That’s a net gain of more than 4 million registered voters for the GOP). They showed the rest of America – REAL America that they have become exactly what President Trump has been saying they are or what so much of the Democrat Party has turned into. It’s no longer a patriotic party of the working class; or to coin a phrase. ‘It’s no longer your father’s Democrat Party’.
The party has been taken over by crazies who are still actively pushing for open borders, men in women’s sports, child indoctrination in elementary schools, sky high taxes, they are against voter ID, against the Second Amendment, for American taxpayers shelling out billions for free healthcare for illegal’s, lax laws that let dangerous criminals back out on the streets no matter how hideous and violent their crimes are, anti- police and anti-military and so many other things that most Americans oppose and even repulsed by. Remember, New York City is not like the rest of America. And now, their leaders and some of their sheep like, gullible followers are even openly supporting Communism. Oh
yes, New York’s mayor elect Zohran Mamdani SAYS he’s a Democrat Socialist, as if that’s not bad enough. But his policies are flat out Communist/Marxist. The Democrat Party leadership has been openly endorsing this Communist and so too some of their loony followers. JFK must be turning over in his grave.
As President Trump has said, they have now; by their stated policies and plans, exposed themselves as the America Last party. Before last Tuesday, some Americans were still skeptical but now it’s out in the open. And by the time the whole country goes to the polls in coming elections for the US Senate, House of Representatives in 2026 and even president in 2028, the odds are that the demise of that party will be full throttle and then sink faster than the Edmond Fitzgerald.
Let’s take a look at what Zohran Mamdani is all about. By his past statements, speeches and activities, it is said that he is a radical Muslim Jihadist, he is a supporter of Hamas, he dislikes Christians and people of the Jewish faith, refuses to condemn terrorism, smiles constantly while he gets caught in lies continuously, he has advocated for defunding the police and believes that White people should be taxed at a higher rate than people of other races. He also makes no attempt to hide his contempt for America and our Constitution.
This guy, like Communists throughout history, makes promises that he knows he can’t keep in order to get votes. He’s promising free everything knowing full well he can’t deliver. Once the Communists get into power, they immediately begin chipping away at individual rights. Their goal is to make the population pretty much totally dependent on government as they work on
taking control of every aspect of the lives of the people. To people like Mamdani, owning your own property shouldn’t be allowed. You know who is absolutely thrilled that Mamdani won the New York election, in addition to the easily led and gullible and of course leftist TDS infected Americans? The leaders of the biggest sponsors of terrorism in the world – the Iranian Mullahs. No surprise at all.
Before closing, just a mention of another election but one that didn’t go quite the way the progressive left had hoped. The race for mayor
in Minneapolis, between Jacob Frey, the incumbent and radical Islamist challenger Omah Fateh went to Mayor Freh. Freh himself is considered by many to be an off the wall liberal himself, but Fateh is even loonier, which of course is why the progressives were backing him. Congress Woman Illhan Omah, notorious member of the so-called Squad and famous for marrying her brother, was furious that Fateh lost and said it was because of discrimination. Of course it was. Isn’t everything when leftists lose?
SOUTH BOSTON TODAY
John Ciccone
Poll: Majority supports ban on ICE agents wearing masks, but a state law may have no teeth
Fifty-nine percent of people polled in a UMass/WCVB survey support a ban on ICE agents wearing masks to hide their identity. The issue of mask bans has come up at the State House and drawn support from some elected officials as videos of masked immigration agents snatching people off streets in Massachusetts and elsewhere continue to circulate on social media.
Twenty-eight percent oppose a ban, while 13% didn’t take a position.
Appearing on “Boston Public Radio” on Wednesday, Gov. Maura Healey said she is aware of a California law, recently signed by Gov. Gavin Newsom, called the “No Secret Police Act,” which will take effect in January. Trump administration officials have dismissed the law, since state and local officials cannot make policy for federal officials.
Healey acknowledged that, and sought to separate federal law enforcement from local and state police, noting that the latter wear badges, and identify themselves. Residents can “distinguish between what they’re seeing from ICE and those who’ve been called in with promises of a $50,000 bonus to come work for ICE, and the work of men and women in our local police departments,” she said.
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.
Attorney General Andrea Campbell sounded a similar note, saying immigration falls squarely in the purview of the federal government.
Her federal counterpart, U.S. Attorney for Massachusetts Leah Foley, has repeatedly claimed that agents are masked because of threats against them and their families. But a Boston-based federal judge recently disagreed, compared the agents to “cowardly desperados” and the KKK, and added, “ICE goes masked for a single reason — to terrorize Americans into quiescence.”
Boston Mayor Michelle Wu has voiced support for a statewide mask ban on federal officials, saying the masked agents are undermining public safety by eroding trust in government. As if to underscore her point, she announced this week a contract extension with the conservative Boston Police Patrolmen’s Association (BPPA) that requires uniformed officers to wear name tags.
At the State House, anti-masking proposals haven’t advanced far. Rep. Jim Hawkins (D-Attleboro) filed a House bill in July. In the Senate, an amendment from Rebecca Rausch (D-Needham) based on the California law came up as part of a spending package last month. But she withdrew it, indicating state lawmakers were still working on the issue. The
amendment had eight co-sponsors. “There’s a lot of legal nuance here as to what we can do within the realm of state policy, as distinct from federal law,” she said.
The slow movement comes despite what Senate President Karen Spilka told reporters earlier that day, saying that ICE is creating a climate of fear among some residents. “I mean, they think they’re being kidnapped. It’s almost like the 1930s Germany, here in Massachusetts and across our country,” Spilka said.
The issue might also surface on the gubernatorial campaign trail. Asked about Healey and Wu’s comments, GOP candidates Brian Shortsleeve and Mike Kennealy placed the blame on them as federal government adversaries. “If they want the neighborhood raids to stop and the masks to come off, the best approach would be to meet federal immigration enforcement at the courthouse or jailhouse door to deliver criminal illegal immigrants to them for deportation,” Shortsleeve said.
Given the way federal law works, should state legislators even attempt to pass something? What else should be on their agenda as they make their way through the 2025-2026 session? Let me know: gin@ massterlist.com.
FROM BEACON HILL
PUBLIC DEFENDER PAY: The Supreme Judicial Court appears reluctant to insert itself into a fight between lawmakers and private lawyers who represent indigent defendants and want higher pay. – CommonWealth Beacon OFFENSIVE LANGUAGE
BILL: House lawmakers approved a bill clearing away offensive and outdated language referring to people with disabilities from state laws. The vote is an indication that the bill has its best chance of reaching the governor’s desk, more than 15 years after it was proposed. – State House News Service AUDIT STALEMATE: One year after voters overwhelmingly approved giving legal authority to the state auditor to audit the Legislature, there hasn’t been much movement as Diana DiZoglio continues to press for one. – WBUR TAX COLLECTIONS: State tax collections came in above benchmark for the month of October as state officials weigh how to handle federal budget cuts and tax relief proposals. –State House News Service
FIRED HEALEY AIDE: Beacon Hill Republicans are demanding “full transparency” from the Healey administration on how LaMar Cook, who was hit with cocaine charges, was hired as deputy director of the western Massachusetts office in Springfield. – Boston Herald
continued on page 6
Councilor Flynn Passes Resolution Urging Boston to Certify with FEMA for National Flood Insurance Program
This week, Boston City Councilor Ed Flynn passed a City Council resolution urging the City of Boston to certify with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for the National Flood Insurance Program Community Ranking System (CRS). This follows reports that the City of Boston missed a deadline to register
on CRS, so that residents in flood risk zones could be eligible for a discount on their flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program.
Boston has a long, rich history with its ports dating back to its founding in 1630. Today, our local economy still relies on ports, including in Charlestown and the South Boston Waterfront for trade and tourism. For many, waterfront neighborhoods are an attractive place to live for recreational activities, higher property values, and a sense of community. However, due to sea level rise and heavy precipitation as a result of climate change, the risk of flooding in these neighborhoods becomes higher every year.
FEMA’s National Flood Insur-
Councilor Flynn Thanks
The People of District
Iwould like to extend a heartfelt thank you to my neighbors, friends, and constituents for re-electing me to serve as your District 2 Boston City Councilor for a fifth term. It is humbling to have received an overwhelming 86% of the vote.
I sincerely appreciate the support and hospitality you have extended to my family, my staff and I at civic meetings and events across our city. It is an honor to serve as your District 2 City Councilor and to earn your trust and confidence. I look forward to continuing working hard for our residents and community.
Over the past eight years, I have used my position of public trust to speak out on many important issues throughout
2
the City of Boston. As an elected official, I have focused on improving public and pedestrian safety for residents, supporting our working families, increasing affordable housing stock, enhancing the neighborhood quality of life, and ensuring public housing residents and all neighbors have the opportunity to voice their concerns during a genuine community process on issues impacting the city.
As your District 2 City Councilor, I will continue to give a voice to my neighbors at City Hall, listen to your feedback, be accessible in our community, and work hard to deliver results for all of our neighbors.
Thank you, Ed Flynn
Boston City Councilor, District 2
ance Program provides flood insurance to property owners, renters, and businesses. Homeowners with flood insurance policies cover both buildings and belongings. Building policies cover flood damage up to $250,000 and content policies up to $100,000. Renters’ flood insurance policies protect belongings within a home covering up to $100,000 of damage. Commercial flood insurance protects the building and equipment used for businesses covering up to $500,000. Residents and businesses in Massachusetts with policies through the National Flood Insurance Program have received discounts up to 20%. In order to qualify and get a discount on flood insurance, cities must receive a certification known as Community Rating System from FEMA. The
City of Boston has not applied to receive this certification, leaving residents to pay thousands of dollars every year.
“Sea level rise is an issue that significantly impacts my constituents in District 2. In 2018, floods shut down sections of the neighborhood and dumpsters were floating down the street from sewer overflow,” said Councilor Flynn. “It is critical that the City of Boston take action immediately to ensure we’re prepared. An arduous application process is no excuse for us to delay certification any longer, especially with rising costs for those living in the flood map.”
For more information, please contact Councilor Flynn’s office at 617635-3203 or Ed.Flynn@Boston.gov.
Pledge of Allegiance to The Flag
Respect should be rendered by standing at attention facing the flag with the right hand over the heart. When not in uniform men should remove any non-religious headdress with their right hand and hold it at the left shoulder, the hand being over the heart. Persons in uniform should remain silent, face the flag, and render the military salute. Members of the Armed Forces not in uniform and veterans may render the military salute in the manner provided for persons in uniform.
on GBH’s “Boston Public Radio” Tuesday morning. Although she expressed concerns about the conduct of ICE agents, Campbell said that state legislation would not be an effective tool in getting agents to remove their masks. “To be able to implement that against ICE officials? Nearly impossible. And I don’t mince my words there,” she said.
Holding federal officials and agents accountable is much more of a challenge for her office than holding local and state police accountable, Campbell said. Any legislation meant to restrict mask usage of federal agents should be pursued at the federal level, she added.
This is a matter for U.S. Attorney Leah Foley’s office, Campbell said, while calling out Foley’s office for neglecting its duty.
“In the context of ICE, this would be your U.S. Attorney where you would say, ‘Hey they are in our communities, perpetuating fear, wearing masks, no transparency, no accountability. Our local law enforcement can’t do that, you should be holding them accountable.’ That’s the U.S. attorney’s job. They’re not doing that,” she said.
In September, California Gov. Gavin Newsom signed a law banning law enforcement officers at all levels from wearing masks to hide their identities. The law was not set to take effect until 2026, but the Trump administration
swiftly ordered federal authorities to ignore it. The acting U.S. attorney for the Central District of California said that the law is unconstitutional and referred to the Constitution’s Supremacy Clause. Foley also cited the Supremacy Clause in a statement to Boston. com, and said that ICE agents wear masks due to incidents of doxing and threats to their families.
“The Attorney General apparently is less mindful of these documented significant threats than she is of murky, unverified accounts of retribution,” Foley said.
Foley went on to accuse Campbell of telling “tall tale stories” and making “overtly political and inaccurate statements.” These comments, Foley said, fuel “misinformation and fear.”
“As I have said time and again, my office stands ready to investigate violations of federal law, no matter the perpetrators, and if the Attorney General wishes to discuss such perceived violations productively, we are always available to do so. To date, however, she has failed to identify any such violations,” Foley said in her statement.
In Massachusetts, Democratic state Rep. Jim Hawkins filed a bill in July aimed at un-masking federal agents. Senate President Karen Spilka recently expressed support for the bill and compared the actions of federal agents to “1930s Germany,” The Boston Globe reported.
Like Foley, ICE officials also say that masks are necessary to protect agents from being doxed by members of the public who do not agree with their tactics.
“I’m sorry if people are offended by them wearing masks, but I’m not going to let my officers and agents go out there and put their lives on the line, their family on the line, because people don’t like what immigration enforcement is,” Todd Lyons, the acting director of ICE, told reporters earlier this year.
Campbell’s office is monitoring ICE activity, but she is focused on practicable actions that could have an immediate and tangible impact, she said. “We don’t want to just be passing things for the sake of passing things,” she said. When pressed, Campbell said that officials “could try to test things” and referred to ongoing discussions in the State House. But actually taking enforcement actions against a federal official would likely face many roadblocks and elicit the wrath of the Trump administration.
“If we were to arrest an ICE official, it’s very difficult, a judge might even throw it out because of Federalism. But what’s worse is retaliation and retribution coming from this federal administration is very real,” she said. Campbell was adamant that she has “no fear,” but said that these are considerations that need to be taken into account.
But fear is palpable for many citizens and non-citizens alike in Massachusetts, who say that ICE agents are engaging in overly aggressive tactics and point to incidents like the detainment of a 13-year-old from Everett who is now being held in Virginia. Petitions are circulating online to pressure lawmakers to support the anti-masking bill.
Since ICE agents routinely hide their identities, there is now more of an opportunity for criminals to impersonate agents in order to commit crimes, concerned residents and immigrant advocates say.
Later in the GBH segment, a caller asked Campbell about what residents expressing their First Amendment rights should do if they are approached by people in masks who threaten them and refuse to identify themselves. She urged people to treat this like any other potentially dangerous situation by calling 911 or asking for help from bystanders. Campbell spoke about getting complaints from local law enforcement officers who have received calls from residents about ICE agents potentially operating in a way that is “egregious and cruel.” She expressed dismay about incidents like this, but reiterated that state officials are very limited in what they can actually do.
Courtesy: Ross Cristantiello boston.com
Windows continued from page 4
NEWS NEXT DOOR
TARIFF TALK: Congressman Richard Neal said he is optimistic about the U.S. Supreme Court will rein in President Trump’s tariff authority. The Springfield Democrat was in the audience for oral arguments Wednesday. – MassLive
CAMPAIGN FINANCE VIOLATIONS: Quincy Mayor Thomas Koch’s campaign reached an agreement with state campaign finance regulators to pay a $55,000 penalty to resolve allegations that it received illegal corporate contributions and prohibited anonymous donations. – WBUR
LOGAN ON THE LIST: Logan Airport is among the places seeing a reduction in flights due to the federal government shutdown. – ABC News
SPRINGFIELD COUNCIL: Two Springfield city councilors, Tracye Whitfield and Melvin Edwards, each claim they have enough votes to become the city council president. – MassLive
Campbell and Ice continued from front page
Guy The Wine Napa Valley, Part 2
There are some wines that, for any number of reasons, are better during a specific time of the year. The following, though, are good to have anytime. So, since there’s no time like anytime, here are a few… C.K. Mondavi, Chardonnay, California ($18.99). This one is made by blending juice from several vineyards in the Napa and Sonoma AVAs, as well as Lake and Mendocino Counties. The blend has a nose of mountain flowers, lemon and orange zest, as well as honeysuckle. On the palate, it has a noticeable chewiness and a full mouthfeel,
while the finish is surprisingly long for a white blend. You can pair this one with any grilled white meat, especially marinated chicken or Cornish Hen, as well as Pork loin.
While it’s not usually on the top of anyone’s list, a bottle of chilled Riesling can be a nice accompaniment for salads and seafood. Chateau Ste. Michelle, Finger Lakes Riesling, New York, ($21.99), has a crisp, balanced sweetness that can turn tangy with fruites de mare, especially lobster and softshell crab. Grilled tails with this wine will make any meal that is much more special.
If your occasion is special, make sure
Screening for Lung Cancer Works Awareness is What’s Missing
Did you know there is routine screening for lung cancer?
If you weren’t’ aware, you’re not alone. Lung cancer has one of the lowest screening rates—under 6% in the United States—among people who are eligible. This Lung Cancer Awareness Month, take a few minutes to read about lung cancer screening.
Lung cancer is the second most common cancer among both men and women in the United States. An estimated 226,650 people will be diagnosed in 2025. In Massachusetts alone, 5,300 will be diagnosed. Who can get lung cancer?
the wine is, too. Something bubbly usually fits the bill and the choices are many. My personal favorite is Veuve Clicquot , NV, ($49.99). Its effervescence is distinctive, but not overwhelming; the nose has notes of citrus and jasmine, while the finish is longer than many other sparklers.
Chateau St. Cloud, Cold Creek Vineyard Chardonnay, ($33.99). This is a complex, layered wine. Notes of cherries, blackberries, caramel and earth tones almost smother your palate; the finish is long and multi flavored. This one is not only good with the usual items, but especially good with grilled chicken, pork loin or bratwurst.
Eroica Riesling, Clos du Bois/ Dr. Loosen, ($22.99). This Riesling, a wine whose style is an homage to Dr. Loosen, captures a great balance of sweetness and body. Notes of mountain flowers, turmeric and peppermint on the nose give way to a pleasant finish. Best with poultry and pork dishes.
A.J.Phelps Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa, California, ($55.99). This isn’t just another Cab. It’s full of structure, balance and distinctive notes and aromas. I’d suggest letting this one breathe
for 30-45 minutes. Then just sip. Also, if it’s steaks on your grill, be sure to have a glass of this in your hand. Lastly, I’d like to mention just one of the many great wines being produced in the country of South Africa. Okay, it’s a little outside of Napa, but this country’s winemakers continue to refine many varieties, especially Chenin Blanc. Beaumont Chenin Blanc,2023, ($23.99), is crisp and refreshing. Notes of orange blossoms and mountain flowers on the nose lead to a palate that’s balanced, but layered. This one is especially good with any kind of salad as well as Asian cuisine. This wine is so easy drinking that I suggest you have more than one on hand.
Also from South Africa is a great tasting Pinotage. Stellenbosch-Conde Pinotage, 2020 ($26.99). While it’s hard to find a bad Pinotage, this one impresses because of its array of notes on the nose, distinctive mouthfeel on the palate and a finish that’s more like a good Bordeaux than anything else. Try this one with a Bolognese, Filet Mignon or even a Beijing Duck. They’ll all be better with this one.
Anyone with lungs can develop lung cancer, but certain factors increase your risk. About 80%-90% of lung cancer deaths are related to cigarette smoking. Other risk factors include heavy exposure to secondhand smoke, having a job with exposure to radiation, exposure to certain toxic substances, such as arsenic, radon or asbestos, and having a personal or family history of lung cancer. Most lung cancer cases aren’t genetic, but according to GO2 for Lung Cancer adults with a parent or sibling diagnosed—especially before age 50 or with multiple affected relatives, face a higher risk, regardless of smoking status.
What is lung cancer screening?
Lung cancer screening is quick, painless and non-invasive. Screening is done through an X-ray called a low dose CT scan. Unlike an MRI, where the machine is a tube that the patient goes into, the CT machine
is not enclosed. A radiologist will instruct you to lie on your back with your hands above your head; as the table moves in and out of the machine, it takes images of your lungs. A radiologist later analyzes the images and shares a report with your health care provider.
Who is eligible for lung cancer screening?
Annual screening is recommended for people ages 50–80 with 20 packyear histories* of cigarette smoking. Guidelines from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommend screening for people who currently smoke or those who have quit within the past 15 years. Insurance companies are required to cover lung cancer screenings for those who qualify under USPSTF guidelines. Some insurers may choose to cover services for additional groups. Check with your insurance provider to find out if you’ll be covered for routine lung cancer screening. Why should I get screened for lung cancer?
Lung cancer screening saves lives. Signs and symptoms of lung cancer
often don’t develop until the cancer has spread, and treatment may be more difficult. Screening can find lung cancer earlier, before the cancer spreads. If you smoke cigarettes heavily or used to, talk with your health care provider about screening. How can I reduce my risk of lung cancer?
The best way to reduce your risk of lung cancer is to stop smoking. If you need help quitting, call 1-800-QUIT-NOW. Also, avoid secondhand smoke, test your home for radon and eat lots of fruits and vegetables. Visit www.preventcancer.org/lung to learn more.
1 American Cancer Society. Cancer Facts & Figures 2025. Atlanta: American Cancer Society; 2025.
*A “pack-year history” is an estimate of how much a person has smoked over time. One pack year is the equivalent of smoking one pack of cigarettes per day for a year.
Margaret Lynch is the spouse of Senator/Representative Stephen Lynch and a member of the Prevent Cancer Foundation’s Congressional Families® Program.
BOSTON PUBLIC HEALTH COMMISSION ENCOURAGES RESIDENTS TO APPLY FOR HEALTH INSURANCE DURING OPEN ENROLLMENT
Massachusetts Open Enrollment runs from November 1, 2025 to January 23, 2026
Federal changes are threatening access to health care nationally and in Boston. For many residents, it is already challenging to navigate the health insurance system and maintain coverage, but federal decisions to increase premiums, limit insurance eligibility, and decrease funding only deepen inequities in health access and create more barriers to keeping families healthy. While these changes are confusing and frightening, Mayor Michelle Wu, the City of Boston, and the Boston Public Health Commission (BPHC) strongly encourage residents to take advantage of the numerous coverage options available in Massachusetts and apply for health insurance, including MassHealth, through the Massachusetts Health Connector Marketplace during the upcoming Open Enrollment period from November 1, 2025-January 23, 2026. For those who need assistance navigating the State’s application process, BPHC’s Mayor’s Health Line can provide assistance.
“Health insurance is the most powerful tool that we have to ensure access to primary care, emergency care, and treatment for chronic diseases,” said Dr. Bisola Ojikutu, Commissioner of Public Health for the City of Boston. “Massachusetts has long led the nation in expanding access to affordable health insurance coverage. Here in Boston, we want to ensure that residents know that there are resources available to navigate the system and secure affordable coverage.”
Residents looking for coverage can find options on the Massachusetts Health Connector, a state-based health insurance Marketplace that makes shopping for affordable health and dental coverage easier for individuals, families, and small businesses. People can compare and purchase plans, apply for subsidies to lower premiums, review eligibility for State programs like MassHealth (Medicaid) and the Health Safety Net, and manage existing coverage. Individuals and families can secure coverage during the Open Enrollment period or within 60 days of a
Important Information About LEAD in Your Drinking Water
drinking water is provided by the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority from the Quabbin Reservoir and is distributed lead-free to homes and businesses. However, some older properties in Boston may have a lead water service line. Exposure to lead in drinking water can cause serious health effects in all age groups.
FREE Lead Replacement Incentive Program
Boston Water and Sewer Commission (BWSC) is offering Boston property owners a free inspection - and free replacement of their building’s water service pipe if we determine it is lead. Take advantage of the No Cost Lead Replacement Program now. Please contact BWSC’s Lead Hotline for additional program information Lead Hotline: (617) 989-7888 www.bwsc.org
qualifying life event, such as losing jobbased coverage or the birth of a child.
For those who need additional help applying for health insurance, the Mayor’s Health Line (MHL) is a free, confidential, health information and referral service operated by the Boston Public Health Commission. It helps all residents regardless of immigration status. Residents can call the Mayor’s Health Line at 617-534-5050 MondayFriday, 9:00 am-5:00 pm. Help is available in all languages through multilingual staff who speak English, Spanish, Portuguese, Haitian Creole, and Cape Verdean Creole and through a language line service.
“The Health Connector and great Navigator organizations like the Boston Public Health Commission are ready to help members and new applicants find coverage that affordably delivers access to services,” said Audrey Morse Gasteier, Executive Director of the Massachusetts Health Connector. “Having health insurance means the ability to put the
health and financial security of yourself and your family first. It means you can take care of annual physicals, screenings, prescriptions for chronic disease, and other ways of staying healthy without worrying about costly trade-offs.”
In addition to the Mayor’s Health Line, assistance is also available for patients at their local community health centers, hospitals, community-based organizations, and walk-in Enrollment Centers. People can locate a nearby enrollment location on the Health Connector’s website.
Medicare Open Enrollment runs from October 15, 2025 to December 7, 2025, and residents who are 65+ or have qualifying disabilities can sign up for coverage directly from the federal government-run marketplace at medicare.gov. For those who need assistance navigating Medicare, MHL and the City of Boston’s Age Strong Commission has trained SHINE (Serving the Health Insurance Needs of Everyone) counselors who can help. The Age Strong Commission is hosting over 20 free in-person Medicare Open Enrollment clinics across Boston, and residents can call Age Strong at 617-635-4366 to make an appointment.
Virtual Public Meeting
bosplans.org/243245Dorchester11-17 Toll Free: (833) 568 - 8864
ID: 161 007 6789
Proponent: 215 West Eighth Street LLC
The proponent seeks to develop a new five-story mixed-use building at 243-245 Dorchester Street in South Boston. The new building would contain twenty dwelling units intended to be condominium units for sale, with no off-street parking spaces, as well as ground floor commercial space.
Massachusetts Convention Center Authority Hosts Ceremony Unveiling New Exterior Signage at the John B. Hynes Veterans
Memorial Convention Center
The Massachusetts Convention Center Authority (MCCA) was honored to welcome Governor Maura Healey, members of the Hynes family, and Tom Lyons, Founder and President of the Boston Semper Fidelis Society, to the John B. Hynes Veterans Memorial Convention Center today for a ceremony unveiling new exterior signage.
The signage at the main entrance off Boylston Street prominently features the facility’s full name, paying tribute to both its namesake, former Boston Mayor John B. Hynes, and to the many veterans who have served the Commonwealth and the nation.
“As we approach Veterans Day, I’m glad to join the MCCA, Tom Lyons and the Hynes family at the unveiling of the new signage for the John B. Hynes Veterans Memorial Convention Center,” said Governor Maura Healey. “This display honors the enduring legacy of John B. Hynes as a veteran, a mayor and someone who contributed so much to the Boston community. We’re grateful for the service and sacrifice of all of our veterans across Massachusetts.”
“Today, we’re proud to unveil this new signage, which will welcome guests and attendees from around the world,” said Marcel Vernon, Sr., Chief Executive Officer of the Massachusetts Convention Center Authority. “The timing, just days before Veterans Day, reflects the MCCA’s continued commitment to honoring the legacy and contributions of both John B. Hynes and our veteran’s community.”
Four generations of the Hynes family were in attendance, including John B. Hynes III, IV, V, as well as Barry Hynes, Mayor Hynes’ only surviving child.
“The Hynes family is very proud of its enduring legacy of public service to the City of Boston, beginning with Mayor John B. Hynes,” said his grandson and namesake John B. Hynes III. “From his distinguished military service in World War I and World War II to his visionary leadership as Mayor, he helped shape the Boston we know and love today. To have our family name displayed on a venue that has hosted so many historic and impactful events is both a tremendous honor and a meaningful reminder of his lasting contributions to the city.”
“As someone who has dedicated much of my per-
sonal and professional life to advocating for veterans, I feel a great amount of pride that this new signage pays tribute to both John B. Hynes and to all who have honorably served our country,” said Tom Lyons, Founder and President of the Boston Semper Fidelis Society. “I’m grateful that visitors to this iconic facility will now be welcomed by this prominent display recognizing the service and sacrifice of our veterans.”
The MCCA is investing $100 million over the next five years in renovations to the John B. Hynes Veterans Memorial Convention Center, located in Boston’s historic Back Bay neighborhood.
Planned improvements include new carpeting, windows, and bathroom upgrades, as well as HVAC and system updates to improve efficiency and support sustainability initiatives.
About the Massachusetts Convention Center Authority (MCCA)
The Massachusetts Convention Center Authority owns and oversees the operations of the Thomas M. Menino Convention & Exhibition Center (MCEC), the John B. Hynes Veterans Memorial Convention Center, the MassMutual Center, Convention Center Carpark & The Landing in Springfield, MA, the Boston Common Parking Garage, The Lawn On D and The Lot On D. The MCCA’s mission is to deliver world-class event experiences that drive statewide economic growth, foster innovation, and exceed customer expectations all while cultivating a workplace culture that values excellence, inclusivity, and employee well-being.
Veterans Day Has Special Meaning To South Bostonians
This coming Tuesday is Veterans Day. An official federal holiday, it is celebrated all across America with memorials, parades, religious services and family gatherings. Its purpose is of course to remember and honor all of our nation’s military personnel. In 2025 as it does every year, Veterans Day has a deep and emotional meaning for most South Bostonians.
A brief history of the day shows us that Veterans Day, once called Armistice Day was first celebrated in 1919. This followed the previous year, 1918 when the Armistice Treaty to end World War I was signed. Initially, it was only to honor and remember veterans who fought in that war, but later was expanded to honor all of America’s veterans from the founding of our country, up to the present day and into the future. Here in South Boston, it has always been and still is a strong tradition to pay tribute to all of this community’s many veterans. It can be said that nowhere are veterans and military personnel held in higher esteem than in this town. We have active and thriving veterans’ organizations, posts and monuments that neighborhood people worked diligently to create and maintain. All of them are a source of great pride to residents here. Many locals will visit cemeteries where family members who served are buried and lay wreaths and flowers. Often families will gather for dinner with the many veterans of all ages who are with us today.
Since Veterans Day is one of this nation’s most cherished holidays, government buildings, schools and banks will be closed. Restaurants, stores and other business will remain open; depending on the owners. This is also considered a good day to shop as Veterans Day sales and discounts are usually pretty tempting.
But here in South Boston the shopping, sales, discounts and all the other entertainment that might come with this special day are fine but as always, takes a back seat to the real priority for South Bostonians which of course is honoring our veterans and showing them they are appreciated because they make us all proud as they put their lives on the line to preserve America’s freedom and way of life.
From the entire South Boston Today team, Happy Veterans Day 2025 to all.
St. Peter Academy Halloween Parade
The Annual SPA Halloween Parade was a great take! It was a beautiful day even though it was windy, the sun was shining bright! The students marched around the neighborhood showing off their Halloween costumes. Our amazing parents lined
the parade route cheering the students along. Classroom parties followed the parade. This was a great kick off to the Trick or Treating festivities! We are looking forward to the Grateful Month of November and the Season of Giving!
St. Peter Academy is now ac -
cepting applications for the 2026-2027 school year. There are limited spots available for the Toddler Program for a January start. St. Peter Academy is an independent, community-based private school and serves students from ages 15 months through grade 6. SPA is currently accepting applications for the limited spaces available in the yearround 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 individual tours can be made by contacting Maria Blasi, at 617-268-0750 or by emailing spa@StPeterAcademy.com.
South Boston Catholic Academy News
Celebrating Another Fun Halloween at SBCA!
October has been a busy month at South Boston Catholic Academy and at the Early Childhood Education Center. All the students had a chance to dress up in their awesome Halloween cos-
tumes, dance to the great music and enjoy the Halloween treats at their Halloween Dance. Thank you to the Social Committee of our Home and School and Mrs. Valerie Hasko for making the colorful banner welcom-
ing everyone to this school dance. The students also enjoyed making all kinds of Halloween crafts and playing games during their classroom parties and marching in their SBCA Annual Halloween Parade. As you can see from the photos, the families, teachers and staff also joined in the Halloween fun at SBCA!
Mrs. Hasko, the Art Teacher, had
the students in 5th grade create “Pop Art” inspired by their favorite Halloween candy inspired by the artist Andy Warhol. They even added benday dots (ink dotting technique). New families are welcome to email our admissions team at admissions@sbcatholicadacademy.org for more info. about South Boston Catholic Academy.
Oldest New England professional boxer ever South Boston’s 57-year-old Charlie LoGrasso Is back fighting on ‘Boston Harbor Fight Night’
QUINCY, Mass. (October 31, 2025)
– At age 57, South Boston’s Charlie “The City Point Sicilian” LoGrasso (2-0, 2 KOs) is New England boxing’s oldest prizefighter, with a notably unusual background for a professional boxer.
LoGrasso returns for his third pro fight on November 15th “Boston Harbor Fight Night,” presented by co-promoters Granite Chin Promotions and CES Boxing, in a 4-round bout versus 35-fight veteran Juan Celin Zapata, the former Honduran light heavyweight champion, contested at a 180-pound catchweight.
“Boston Harbor Fight Night” marks only the third pro boxing event held at Encore Boston Harbor, the first there since August 23, 2019.
Each time LoGrasso steps into the fourcornered ring, he breaks the record he set in his last fight as the oldest New England pro boxer of all-time – an opening-round knockout of Erick Mathews Alves this past August 16 in Revere – nearly 30 years after making his pro debut on March 8, 1996 in Dorchester.
“Fighting at Encore has given me huge motivation,” LoGrasso said. “I’ve been there before but fighting there will be cool. When Chris (Traietti) said he was doing a show at Encore, I told him to pencil me in.
“I’ve proved that, if healthy, anyone who really wants to do something, athletically, can do it even if they are up in age. I know it’s a cliché that age is just a number, but I’m still fighting and I hope it motivates others, too.”
Charlie started boxing in grade school, captained the Christopher Columbus High School football team, and twice captured top honors at the New England Golden Gloves in 1987 as a novice, 1996 in the open division. He lost a decision in the Diamond Belt Tournament in the early 1990’s to future 2-time world heavyweight champion John
“The Quietman” Ruiz, of Chelsea.
LoGrasso moved to Los Angeles for a few years where he trained at Freddie Roach’s famed Wildcard Gym, sparring with the likes of future Hall of Famer James Toney along with other notables including movie stars. He eventually returned home to Southie, but after turning pro he was out of the ring for nearly three decades.
“Boxing is demanding,” Charlie noted. “You have to train hard on a regular basis, often throwing punches in pain. And I’m Sicilian; we love food. Making weight was always a constant fight for me. I was in and out of the sport because it’s so taxing. I trained for a few years but had kids and that took a lot of my time, plus work.”
A person of diverse interests, LoGrasso received the prestigious “Best Original Screenplay” award last May at the Vegas Film Festival for “Shannahan”, which was used for the pilot of “The Bolt Job”. He has also received a citation from the City of Boston for being New England’s oldest pro boxer in addition to his screenplay writing award.
Nicknamed the “Scholar Brawler” by his friend and boxing journalist/author, Springs Toledo, LoGrasso is taking it one fight at a time.
“I can’t really look too much into the future at my advanced age,” he admitted. “Jake Paul will never give me a shot, but I’d really like to fight Bobby “Lights Out” Laing, from Braintree and Barstool Sports.
He’s won ‘Rough N’ Rowdy” fights, but I don’t think he wants to fight me.”
LoGrasso is a laborer for the City of Boston at the Boston Public Library. He trains at the L St. Boxing Club in South Boston.
Undefeated Weymouth, MA middleweight prospect Francis “Frank The Tank” Hogan (20-0, 17 KOs) headlines “Boston Harbor Fight Night” against upset-specialist Antonio “Primo” Todd (17-13, 9 KOs), of Atlanta, in the 8-round main event for the vacant North American Boxing Federaton (NABF) middleweight title.
Other New England fighters scheduled to be in action include Lynn super middleweight James “Pitbull” Perkins (14-3-1, 9 KOs), Boston welterweight Eric “The Gladiator” Goff (8-0, 6 KOs) vs. Springfield’s Derrick Whitley, Jr. (9-5-2, 2 KOs), Londonderry, NH welterweight Jaydell “The Pazmanian Devil” Pazmino (8-0, 7 KOs), Milton, MA junior featherweight Jennifer Perella (3-1, 1 KO), and Nashua, NH bantamweight Christian Moura (1-0,
20-0 Weymouth middleweight prospect Francis ‘Frank The Tank’ Hogan to Headline ‘Boston Harbor Fight Night’ Pro Boxing returns Nov. 15 to Encore Boston Harbor
QUINCY, Mass. (October 31, 2025) – Undefeated Weymouth middleweight prospect Francis “Frank The Tank” Hogan (20-0, 17 KOs) will headline the “Boston Harbor Fight Night” on November 15th against upset-specialist Antonio “Primo” Todd (17-13, 9 KOs), of Atlanta, in the 8-round main event for the vacant North American Boxing Federation (NABF) Middleweight title.
“Boston Harbor Fight Night,” presented by co-promoters Granite Chin Promotions and CES Boxing, marks only the third pro boxing event held at Encore Boston Harbor, the first there since August 23, 2019.
Dorchester-born Hogan, 25, was a celebrated amateur boxer who was a 2-time New England Golden Gloves Champion. He also finished third in the 2020 U.S. Olympic Trials.
A certified welder, Hogan works full time for Roadplates in Walpole. The powerpunching southpaw trains at Everybody Fights gym in Boston’s Seaport District, trained by former world-class boxer Mark DeLuca and Matt Ryan.
Hogan has fought at major New England casinos like Foxwoods, Mohegan, and the former Twin River, but he has yet to fight at Encore, despite nearly doing so years ago.
“I was supposed to fight there in April of 2022 on a Murphy’s Boxing show but then covid hit. Now with 20 pro fights it’s kind of cool fighting at Encore,” Hogan noted. “I’ll have more support there because Encore is in my backyard, only a 20-30 minutes’ drive at the most for my fanbase. It’s 1 ½ hours for them to the
Card subject to change.
Connecticut casinos.
“A good win for me will potentially lead to a ranking. 2026 is going to be a big year for me. I’m going to have bigger paydays and get what I really want, fighting on a major network and planting my first knockout on TV. Eventually, I want to fight for the world title and, personally, I’d love to fight for it at TD Garden.”
Hogan, of course, has to get past Todd, a wily veteran who has ruined future plans for several opponents with superior records like 15-1 Jaylon Pridgeon and 28-3-1 Hugo Centeno Jr., in addition he’s going the distance with the likes of 2020 U.S. Olympian Troy Isley, 2019 National Golden Gloves Champion Joseph Hicks, and Irishman Connor Coyle.
“I’ll be in the ring with an opponent trying to get where I’m going,” Hogan said. “He jabs a lot; tough who comes forward, which will help me. He’s a little like Isiah Hart (7-1-1), who I fought (July 31, 2021). Tough fighter and he came forward. I knocked him out in the sixth round.
“I’ll try boxing early to feel him out to see what he has. I’ll take him out in the fourth round, hopefully, out cold, when it’ll be ‘Tank Time’ again.”
Hogan may be considered one of New England’s most promising prospects of the 21st century, arguably the best since Providence’s Demetrius “Boo Boo” Andrade, the 2008 U.S. Olympian and 2-division world champion. However, he needs to defeat Todd on Nov. 15th to continue building his reputation and brand, playing “blackjack boxing” to secure his 21st victory.
Other New England fighters scheduled to be in action include Lynn super middleweight James “Pitbull” Perkins (14-3-1, 9 KOs), Boston welterweight Eric “The Gladiator” Goff (8-0, 6 KOs) vs. Springfield’s Derrick Whitley, Jr. (95-2, 2 KOs), Londonderry, NH welterweight Jaydell “The Pazmanian Devil” Pazmino (8-0, 7 KOs), ), South Boston cruiserweight Charlie “The City Point Sicilian” Lograsso (2-0, 2 KOs), Milton, MA junior featherweight Jennifer Perella (3-1, 1 KO), and Nashua, NH bantamweight Christian Moura (1-0, 1 KO).
Tickets prices range between $60.00 and $200.00 and are available for purchase online at www.TicketTree.us.
Doors open at 6 p.m. ET, first bout at 7 p.m. ET.
Granite Chin Promotions is partnering with the Quincy Fire Cancer Foundation for the Nov. 15th “Boston Harbor Fight Night” to raise awareness and support for this most worthy charitable organization.
BOSTON HARBOR FIGHT NIGHT
NOVEMBER 15, 2025 ● ENCORE BOSTON HARBOR RESORT ● EVERETT, MA RED BLUE
MAIN EVENT – VACANT NABF MIDDLEWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP – 8 ROUNDS
FRANCIS “Frank The Tank” HOGAN ANTONIO “Primo” TODD
2-Time New England Golden Gloves Champion Weymouth, MA Atlanta, GA 20-0 (17 KOs) 17-13 (9 KOs)
SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHTS – 6 ROUNDS
JAMES “Pitbull” PERKINS RYAN CLARK
WBC USA Light Heavyweight Champion
Lynn, MA Barrington, NH
14-3-1 (9 KOs) 5-7-1 (2 KOs)
WELTERWEIGHTS 6 ROUNDS
ERIC “The Gladiator” GOFF DERRICK WHITLEY, JR.
Boston, MA Springfield, MA 8-0 (6 KOs) 9-5-2 (2 KOs)
JONATHAN DE PINA
LIGHTWEIGHTS – 6 ROUNDS
ELIJAH PEIXOTO
2018 New England Golden Gloves Champion Boston, MA East Providence, RI 14-2 (7 KOs) 4-0-1 (2 KOs)
WELTERWEIGHTS – 6 ROUNDS
JAYDELL “The Pazmanian Devil” PAZMINO
DANIEL SOSTRE
2020 New England Golden Gloves Champion Former New York State Welterweight Champion Londonderry, NH San Juan, Puerto Rico 8-0 (7 KOs) 13-30-3 (5 KOs)
FEMALE JUNIOR FEATHERWEIGHTS 4 ROUNDS
JENNIFER PERELLA BRITTANY DUKES 2024 National Golden Gloves Silver Medalist / 2016 New England Golden Gloves Novice Champion Milton, MA Kansas City, MO 3-1 (1 KO)
180-POUND CATCHWEIGHT – 4 ROUNDS
2-10-1 (0 KOs)
CHARLIE “The City Point Sicilian” LOGRASSO JUAN CELIN ZAPATA Former Honduran Light Heavyweight Champion South Boston, MA Bronx, NY by way of Honduras 2-0 (2 KOs) 7-26-2 (5 KOs)
120-POUND CATCHWEIGHT – 4 ROUNDS
CHRISTIAN MOURA MICHAEL THORNTON
3-Time New England Golden Gloves Champion Nashua, NH Sturgis, IN 1-0 (1 KO) 0-1