While
ity.
EDITORIAL
Getting Run Over While On The Sidewalk
AQuestion being asked by some Boston residents and even visitors to the city: ‘Is it legal to drive motorized vehicles on the sidewalks now?’ As far as we know, it is not. But yes, it is happening. Another question is why is there a hefty fine and other penalties for driving uninsured/unregistered cars and trucks but not the motor scooters and other
“The
2 wheeled motor vehicles that seem to be everywhere now, in every neighborhood in Boston; especially in the down town area?
These are valid questions, being asked by concerned people; both drivers and pedestrians as more now than ever before, city streets are becoming race tracks; not just do to deliveries being made, but also by others using them as their transpor-
tation. And when it’s now getting to the point where people not just trying to cross the streets in the cross walks are complaining about almost being run over by scooters, but in some reported incidents, having to jump out of the way of speeding scooters actually operating on sidewalks. Boston, we have a problem.
We’re not saying that everyone operating a scooter is
driving in a reckless manner because that’s not the case. But many certainly are. And it IS the case where a many of these scooters have no insurance and no registration.
As far as those operating recklessly, the complaints of riders blowing through stop signs and red lights and showing disregard for any and all rules of the road are multiplying by leaps and bounds.
Boston City Councilor Ed Flynn is correct in his efforts to get this situation under control and should be commended for it. He is looking into possibly having the city ban deliveries by unregistered uninsured scooters because it’s becoming a bigger safety issue by the day. As he puts it “It can no longer be like the Wild West”.
Making deliveries by scooter is an economical way for companies to do business. Using scooters is far less expensive than deliveries made by cars or trucks. We understand their need for cost cutting. But
it’s putting people; including drivers of cars, pedestrians and even the scooter riders themselves in danger and making Boston’s streets a safety hazard and as was stated, it seems to be getting worse by the day.
So, what to do: The city can put more effort into enforcing the law. If a motorized vehicle isn’t ‘street legal’ with the proper equipment such as horn, turn signals, and brake lights AND registered and insured, it can’t be allowed to operate on public city roads. Drivers of scooters must be held to the same standards as those who operate regular cars/vans/pickups etc as far as obeying traffic laws. They need to be ticketed for not stopping at traffic lights and stop signs. There are speed limits – they need to be obeyed. And if caught operating on sidewalks, impound their scooters. So often, action is only taken after a tragedy occurs. Let’s not wait for a serious injury or a death to occur.
‘IThe
Information Center
The Cancellers
Are Being Cancelled And They’re Losing Their Minds
nsanity is thinking it’s wrong to lose your job for what you said, but what you said was that Charlie Kirk should lose his life for what HE said”
The above quote by Mario Murillo has been the subject of quite a bit of debate over the last week. And though there are some who are hoping that the whole topic of the assassination of Charlie will just go away, the response to that is ‘Not a Chance’ - at least not here.
As someone who in the past, had lost a job because of my outspoken political views some years back, I know firsthand quite a bit about the subject. Like most of our readers, I am a firm believer in the First Amendment – freedom of speech. Having the freedom to speak one’s mind is rare in this world. We can thank God that in America; our Constitution firmly supports that right. And while as Americans, unlike most other countries, we can’t be arrested or thrown in jail for doing so, it doesn’t mean that in some cases, there won’t be consequences.
For nearly a decade, those on the left side of the political spectrum have been active in an organized effort to punish people who espouse different views from theirs. They are of the mind that if you disagree with them on virtually anything at all, they had the right and even the duty to target you, to get you fired from your job, vandalize your property and verbally and even physically assault you. They named it ‘cancel culture’. If they didn’t like a statue, tear it down, if a comedian told a joke they didn’t like, get them banned from performing. If like most Americans, you refused to play the ‘pronoun game’, submit to a vaccine mandate, wear a mask for 3 years or Heaven forbid, show support for a candidate that those on the left didn’t like, you must be shamed and ostracized.
If parents protested the fact that their children were being taught at school
to hate our country and some teachers were pushing their political agenda on the kids in their classrooms they were labeled bigots and would become the subjects of investigations. The hard core Leftists in America have been waging a war against traditional American values and culture for some time and Cancel Culture has been one of the weapons they’ve been using quite effectively. Up until the Charlie Kirk murder, traditional Americans, because of their aversion to stopping free speech of any kind, have refrained from responding in the same way. But that’s all changed now. Two (sides) can play that game. Conservative Americans have come to finally realize that yes, we are in a war. You can’t reason, compromise or simply coexist with people so filled with hate. Uniting with them is certainly NOT an option.
It has begun. It’s now the Leftists who are losing their jobs by what is now said to be in the thousands for the hate, venom and the vilest remarks imaginable. They are praising the murder of Kirk, openly expressing disappointment that another assassin’s bullet didn’t kill President Trump, threatening violence against Charlie Kirk’s wife and children and anyone who supports MAGA voters. But the MAGA voters have no intention of playing defense any longer as the left is learning. And because of this, it’s now the leftists who are being cancelled. They are shocked, enraged and can’t handle it. They are losing this war that they started and losing their minds. Some would call it Karma. Others would say that they FAFO. Most people are aware of what that means.
The assassination of Charlie Kirk was one of the loudest wakeup calls of the 21st Century so far. There are massive vigils taking place in all 50 states. Literally millions of Americans are taking part. And it’s not just happening in America. Huge crowds are turning out in England, Ireland, Spain,
Canada and Australia all praising the memory of Charlie Kirk. At this writing, Turning Point, the organization founded by Charlie has more than 32,000 new requests from youth and student groups at colleges and universities and high schools all over America and even some from Canada. They are asking that Turning Point open chapters there. Another development being noticed is that many Christian and Jewish places of worship are reporting an influx of new members. Some are even comparing the Charlie Kirk assassination to the ‘Shot Heard Round the World’; one of the sparks that touched off the American Revolution-
ary War/War for Independence. This tragedy has hit hard the hearts of people of every age but particularly the young. So many people have been complacent because compared to most of the rest of the world, living in America; most of it anyway, there’s a feeling of security. Yet, when we are hit with wake up calls of this magnitude, it serves to remind us all that to be truly secure and protect the greatness of our country, there is a need to keep our guard up, our eyes open and beware of those who seek to destroy America as we know it, be they foreign AND/OR domestic. Put another way –know the lurking enemy.
SOUTH BOSTON TODAY
John Ciccone
New Commonwealth Flag and Seal Proposals…Hmmmm?
Gov. Maura Healey doesn’t seem to want to touch proposals for a new state seal and flag with a 10foot pole.
Just before Labor Day, a special commission came up with several finalists for a new state seal, flag and motto for Massachusetts, culled from more than 1,100 submissions from residents.
The commission, with a $100,000 budget, was the second attempt after the first legislatively created commission was unable to come up with alternatives and disbanded.
The current state flag and seal, which features an Indigenous person with a sword above his head, held by a floating arm, has been described as demeaning. The commission offered up options that leaned on Bay State flora and fauna. The options involved a blue whale, turkey feathers, a chickadee, a mayflower and the Blue Hills.
Governors and Boston mayors frequently field questions on a variety of issues during their public appearances throughout each week. But at a State House press conference on public health issues on Wednesday, Healey sought to laugh off an off-topic question about the state seal and flag proposals.
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.
“I support that there was a legislative commission to look at this. I think it’s the state seal, the flag and the motto maybe?” Healey wondered before a reporter confirmed that was indeed the case.
“Sure, have a look at it, and I’m sure there’ll be discussion, you know, over the ensuing time and years, and an opportunity,” she said. “I think they make recommendations at some point.”
The reporter helpfully pointed out there are existing recommendations that came out weeks ago. “But I think there’s going to be more discussion, all that,” Healey responded, before adding that she is focused on a “bunch of stuff” that does not involve the state seal or flag.
“Public health, that we’re talking about today,” she said, referring to new vaccine guidance that recommends children ages six to 23 months and all adults receive the COVID-19 shot. “Building more homes, driving down housing costs, right? Bringing more energy into the region so we can lower people’s energy bills. We’ve got, you know, ongoing issues with ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) in our communities, right? And, you know, these are the things that I’m focused on.”
Vaccines are a more popular and less divisive topic than a state flag
SOUTHIE AUTO SERVICE
and seal, which invites the public to offer up hot takes and make-yourown emblems. It’s an easy-to-grasp issue, and while Healey’s GOP rivals, Mike Kennealy and Brian Shortsleeve, kept quiet as Healey launched a counteroffensive to the Trump administration’s shifting vaccine policy, they’ve weighed in support of the current flag and seal.
Kennealy, who served as Gov. Charlie Baker’s economic development chief, somewhat agreed with Healey on there being bigger problems in state government. He called changing the flag “an operational nightmare at a time when we already face far more pressing issues.” He added: “I cannot understand why the state would choose to spend millions of dollars replacing every flag, motto and seal.”
CANNABIS COMMISSION: Shannon O’Brien is still set to return as chair of the Cannabis Control Commission, notching another legal win with a single justice of the Appeals Court. Treasurer Deb Goldberg, who lost the case to remove her from the post after a Superior Court judge sided with O’Brien, has continued the legal battle. – Boston Globe
CHANCELLOR SEARCH:
With Dr. Michael Collins, the longtime chancellor of UMass Chan
Medical School, set to step down after nearly 20 years, a search committee started work to find his successor. The group includes Karyn Polito and Tim Murray, two former lieutenant governors.– State House News Service
HOUSING STARTS: The Boston metro area is falling behind other parts of the country in housing starts, trailing smaller metro areas like Boise, Idaho and Greenville, South Carolina. – Boston Business Journal
CITY HALL LAWSUIT: A former Wu administration employee, fired after the police came to her boyfriend’s Chinatown apartment and arrested her, is suing Mayor Michelle Wu and the city. She alleges Wu is seeking to protect her economic development chief, who propositioned her. – Boston Globe v The Massachusetts Teachers Association is clashing with Republicans after asking school districts not to punish teachers for comments about right-wing activist Charlie Kirk. – MassLive
NO ADMISSION: The state’s last two intermediate care facilities, which serve adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, haven’t taken new residents since 2023, raising questions over whether the state is looking to close them. – GBH News
Senator Collins Opposes Safe Injection Sites
Testifies before Joint Committee on Mental Health, Substance Use and Recovery in strong opposition to legislation legalizing such facilities
Senator Nick Collins, representing the First Suffolk District and a member of the Joint Committee on Mental Health, Substance Use, and Recovery, testified on Monday, September 15, in opposition, alongside residents of the South End, to bills that would legalize deadly drugs and regulate safe injection sites in Massachusetts.
“At this inflection point in the crisis facing the South End and neigh-
borhoods across Boston, safe injection sites are not a mitigation factor. They risk accelerating the trafficking of drugs, increasing human exploitation, and compounding illegal gun violence,” said Senator Collins.
“Nobody should mistake enabling a facility that further encourages illicit behavior as progress. We have to do better than that.”
Over the past four years, Boston has seen over 1,000 overdose deaths. These fatalities underscore the severity of the opioid epidemic in our streets and communities. They are not just statistics but a stark reality for families across Boston. What the numbers do not capture is the ripple effect, the countless lives upended by the sudden loss of a parent, child, or sibling to a disease we know we can manage more effectively. Meanwhile, stories from the
ground reflect the urgency of this crisis. In South Boston, the news of a child injured by a discarded hypodermic needle sparked alarm. Residents of Roxbury and the South End spoke with the same sense of urgency at a recent City Council hearing, making clear that the degradation of their neighborhoods’ streets is unacceptable. Together, these voices show that communities across Boston are watching closely and demanding bold action, not experiments that may exacerbate the very problems we face. It is time to channel that vigilance into legislation that lowers barriers to treatment and strengthens recovery, such as S1042, An Act Relative to Life Saving Treatment. There is also mounting evidence from studies that shortened or interrupted treatment for opioid use
Councilor Flynn Files Ordinance to Restrict
Mopeds & E-Bikes from 3rd Party Food Delivery
This week, Boston City Councilor Ed Flynn filed an amended ordinance to effectively ban mopeds and e-bikes from third-party food delivery services. In April, the Council passed the Mayor’s Ordinance to require thirdparty deliveries to obtain a permit; however, it’s unclear drivers will be able to obtain liability insurance, and concerns on enforcement remain.
Last week, a person tragically passed away after a collision with a thirdparty delivery driver near Copley Square in early August. While all information remains unavailable, Councilor Flynn maintains it is critical that the Council act to prevent more people from getting hurt - including the drivers themselves.
In recent years, Councilor Flynn worked closely with both Councilor Mejia and Councilor Pepén on a Task Force, as well as many of the drivers following the rules and working
to make ends meet for their families.
However, Councilor Flynn does not believe this pandemic model is sustainable, or in the best interest of public safety for the City. Nearly every day, residents report delivery mopeds and e-bikes traveling over 20 mph the wrong way down the street, on sidewalks, running stop signs and red lights. These two-wheeled vehicles have tripled in just the last several years.
For nearly 8 years, Councilor Flynn has also called pedestrian safety one of the biggest issues in Boston. In 2018, he recommended a 12-point plan on traffic-calming that goes further than the City, with raised crosswalks and raised infrastructure on main streets, commercial roads, and high traffic corridors. He has held annual hearings on pedestrian safety, and offered a resolution to declare speeding cars a Public Health Emergency. Councilor Flynn contin-
ues to stress that this is not about cars vs. bikes, e-bikes or mopeds - but that no reasonable person believes that our roads are safer for pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers. He has emphasized that food delivery wasn’t always this way until just a few short years ago.
In 2022, during the pandemic, with the demand for food delivery higher with remote work - the city reported that their goal was for third-party deliveries to shift away from cars towards two-wheeled vehicles to reduce chaos, congestion, and public safety concerns associated with the loss of a travel lane on Boylston Street. However, in June 2024, the City subsequently launched the Boylston Street Better Bus and Bike Lane Project, eliminating two lanes and over 90 parking spaces for both a bike lane and a bus lane. In February 2025, the City announced removal of the bus lane.
disorder is associated with worse outcomes, including higher risk of overdose. According to studies at Duke University, even individuals placed under sustained outpatient commitments achieve better longterm outcomes, including fewer hospitalizations and stronger adherence to treatment, than those without such conditions of release. These findings reinforce the importance of continuity and accountability in care, the very principles behind reforms that expand remote court access, ensure evaluation after an overdose, and require judicial oversight before an early discharge from treatment. These are practical steps that can keep people in care longer and give recovery a real chance to take hold. We need to prioritize intervention and treatment if we are to turn the tide on this unrelenting epidemic.
In a 2024 letter to the City Council, Uber Eats noted that the city encouraged use of two-wheel delivery vehicles to decrease cars on the road, and the company had a 9 month pilot program to incentivize drivers to do so. In the early days of the pandemic, Councilor Flynn and Councilor Flaherty highlighted how these large companies were also charging local restaurants over 30% to use their services. City, state and national officials have all highlighted that they do not classify drivers as employees. There have also been reports on how third-party companies may potentially be incentivizing workers to prioritize speed over safety in order
According to estimates from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), between Oct. 1, 2024, and June 7, 2025, there were:
• Up to 16.1 million COVIDrelated illnesses
• Up to 3.8 million COVID-related outpatient visits
• Up to 440,000 COVID-related hospitalizations
• Up to 51,000 COVID-related deaths
Avoiding a COVID infection should be high on your priority list, too, especially if you’re age 65 or older, you have one or more chronic health conditions, or you’re immunocompromised.
The best defenses against the virus are largely the same as they were during the pandemic: making sure your vaccinations are up to date, wearing a mask in appropriate settings, and washing your hands frequently.
How risky is COVID now for older adults? According to CDC, 81% of COVID deaths happen among people who are older than 65.2 The risk of becoming seriously ill, getting hospitalized, or dying increases with age. Underlying health conditions like cancer, chronic lung disease, heart disease, weakened immune system, and sickle cell disease continue to add to the already elevated COVID risk levels for older adults.
Keep in mind that even though it may feel life has mostly gotten back to “normal” since the pandemic, the risk of COVID is still there. That’s why it’s important to stay mindful of your health by keeping up with recommended vaccines, practicing good handwashing, and making safe choices in crowded places when needed. Taking these steps helps you continue enjoying the things you love while protecting yourself and those around you.
Will COVID eventually fade away? Just like the flu and other infectious diseases, COVID is a disease we’ll probably be living with for a long time. It has now become endemic, according to CDC officials. That simply means it’s here to stay, much like the flu and the common cold. While COVID has some seasonal patterns like the
flu, it can also be unpredictable and peak at all different times throughout the year.
How can I still participate in activities and reduce my COVID risk? Your best strategy to avoid COVID infection is a layered series of protections:
1. Get fully vaccinated
First and foremost, it’s important to stay up to date on your COVID vaccinations. Getting vaccinated is still the best defense against serious illness, hospitalization, and death from this virus. Vaccination against COVID may offer other protections, too. A Cedars-Sinai study found that vaccinated people had a lower risk of developing post-COVID diabetes.3 And a study in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health concluded COVID vaccines protect against such persisting—or “long COVID”—symptoms as kidney disease, cognitive problems, and sleeping disorders.4
What is the 2025-2026 COVID vaccine guidance for older adults? While an updated COVID vaccine formula has already been approved, states are currently awaiting Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommendations for the 2025-2026 season. Once these recommendations are made, they will be adopted by CDC as official guidelines.
Talk to your doctor about your vaccine eligibility and availability of the COVID vaccine in your area. This is especially important if you’re 65 or older, you’re at higher risk for serious illness, or you’ve never had a COVID shot.
2. Wear a high-quality mask
The CDC calls masks “an additional prevention strategy that you can choose to further protect yourself and others.” Masks can help lower the spread of germs by blocking some of what you breathe in and out. If someone who is sick wears a mask, it reduces the chance of passing illness to others. Masks can also protect you from breathing in germs—especially N95 or KN95 masks that fit snugly around your mouth and nose.
3. Wash your hands frequently Not only does handwashing help
stop the spread of COVID; it’s a tried-and-true public health practice to protect against all types of infections like colds and flu. Most of us became expert hand-washers at the start of the pandemic, but it may be time for a refresher on hand hygiene best practices.
4. Take steps for cleaner air
COVID mainly spreads through tiny droplets and particles that come out when an infected person breathes, talks, coughs, or sneezes. These particles can spread through the air, especially indoors in crowded places with little airflow.
You can lower your risk by opening windows, using air purifiers and spending time outdoors, where the air is fresher
Find other preventive actions you can take from CDC’s How to Protect Yourself and Others.
What should I do if I think I have COVID? It is recommended that you keep a ready supply of COVID rapid tests at home so that you can test if you have symptoms of COVID. To learn about tests for COVID and where to get home rapid tests, check out this Guide to COVID-19 Testing for Seniors. When taking an athome rapid test, be sure to follow the instructions carefully, as instructions may vary slightly from manufacturer to manufacturer.
What should I do if I test positive for COVID? If you test positive for COVID, notify your doctor right away—even if your symptoms are mild. Treatments are available that can decrease your chances of getting seriously ill and dying from COVID.
People who are more likely to get very sick from covid are:
• Adults age 65 and older (with risk increasing with age)
• People who are not vaccinated against COVID
• People with certain medical conditions, such as chronic lung disease, diabetes, heart disease, obesity, or a weakened immune system
Medications to treat COVID-19, such as Paxlovid, must be prescribed by a health care provider. And for treatment to be effective, it must be started within five days after you first develop COVID symptoms.
to receive more orders and tips, to keep high ratings, and their jobs.
While many highlight enforcement, Councilor Flynn believes it is wholly unrealistic to expect Boston Police to consistently enforce hundreds of mopeds every day with longstanding issues of staffing levels and overstretched resources. In Councilor Flynn’s view, the Mayor’s ordinance was a start, that the last few years have already been a de facto pilot program, and that the status quo is unenforceable with the potential for more people to get hurt. He’s respectfully asking his colleagues and the administration to have the courage to admit this model does not work as intended, just like the Boylston Street Bus Lane.
“Since 2022, the City of Boston encouraged large third-party food delivery companies to have drivers use two-wheel vehicles, while the companies also incentivized workers to prioritize speed over safety to get more assignments and higher ratings. The result has been a significantly worsened pedestrian safety crisis, with mopeds and e-bikes going over 20 mph through red lights and stop signs nearly every day,” said Councilor Flynn. “No reasonable person believes the rules of the road can continue to be optional. It can no longer be the Wild West on the streets of Boston.”
For more information, please contact Councilor Flynn’s office at 617-6353203 or Ed.Flynn@Boston.gov.
Flynn continued from page 5
COVID continued front page
Councilor Flynn Holds Chinatown Food Theft, Public Safety & Health Meeting
Boston City Councilor Ed Flynn held a joint meeting with the Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association on food theft, public safety, and public health. Residents in Chinatown have reported numerous incidents relating to stealing and selling food items. Representatives from the Boston Police Department, the District Attorney’s office, Inspectional Services, the Chinatown business community, Chinatown Crime Watch, Saint Anthony’s Shrine, and the Rose Kennedy Greenway were in attendance. At the beginning of the meeting, Boston Police A-1 Captain Driscoll passed photos reported by a resident of meat and eggs that were
stolen and sold by the Chinatown Gate. When asked by police, one of the offenders said, “I’ll stop selling it when people stop buying it.” The Boston Police also reported that some put in orders to offenders to receive goods at lower prices. It is critical to note that it is illegal to not only steal from these stores, but also to buy stolen goods from another party. The District Attorney’s office noted that first time shoplifting offenses are cited with a $250 fine if found guilty. If you suspect you see someone stealing or selling stolen goods, please call 911. Residents are also encouraged to take note of the most prevalent times, locations, and suspicious vehicles
to Inspectional Services.
“Stealing food to sell at a lower price is not a victimless crime. It is critical that we prosecute repeat offenders to prevent those with substance use disorders from continuing to manipulate the system to feed their addiction,” said Councilor Flynn. “On public health, perishable foods need to be kept below 40 degrees. We must do everything we can to prevent our seniors and lowwage workers from buying contaminated food. It’s critical to make a public awareness campaign, including signs near the Chinatown Gate, to educate the residents of Chinatown, the South End, and those coming from outside of the city of these
occurring incidents of stealing. This is a major public health and public safety challenge”
For more information, please contact Councilor Flynn’s office at 617635-3203 or Ed.Flynn@Boston.gov.
The New England Council was honored to host a special program featuring several former U.S. Ambassadors at which they shared their insights on the state of U.S. foreign relations.
In the photo: Hon. John Sullivan, former U.S. Ambassador to Russia; Hon. Vicki Kennedy, former U.S. Ambassador to Austria; Hon. Claire Cronin, former U.S. Ambassador to Ireland; and Jim Brett, President & CEO, The New England Council
Gate of Heaven & St. Brigid Religious Education
Registration for Grades K – 6 for 2025-2026 will be held on Sunday, Sept. 21st at 8:30AM in Cushing Hall, downstairs St. Brigid Church Classes, also, begin on Sunday, Sept. 21st at 9AM, in Cushing Hall, followed by 10:30AM Family Mass
You can also Register your child online at http://www.gateofheavenstbrigid.org/religious-education
• Our Sacramental Program is a two-year program in accordance with Archdiocesan Guidelines.
• Please note that parents should enroll their children in the 1st Grade Program for their child to receive their Sacrament of First Holy Communion in the 2nd Grade in 2027.
• For those students enrolling in 1st Grade who were not Baptized in either St. Brigid or Gate of Heaven Church, please provide a copy of your child’s Baptismal Certificate to register.
• Our first class will be held on Sunday morning, Sept. 21, 2025, at 9 AM at Cushing Hall, downstairs at St. Brigid Church.
• Any questions, please visit our website at http://www.gateofheavenstbrigid.org/religious-educationand fill out our Online Registration Form under “Religious Education” or you can come with your child and fill out a form in person on Sunday, Sept. 21st.
Guy The Wine Good Anytime
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 soft-shell crab. Grilled tails with this wine will make any meal that much more special.
If your occasion is special, make sure the wine is, too. Something bubbly usually fits the bill and the choices are many. My personal favorite is Moet-Chandon, 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. Michelle, Cold Creek Vineyard Chardonnay, Columbia Valley, Washington, ($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 brauts.
Eroica Riesling, Ch.Ste. Michelle/ Dr. Loosen, Washington, ($22.99). This Riesling, a wine whose style is 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. The 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. StellenboschConde 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.
Boston’s Polish Harvest Festival (Dożynki) Celebrates 25th Anniversary – September 21, 2025
On Sunday, September 21, 2025, the Our Lady of Czestochowa Parish in Boston’s historic Polish Triangle will proudly host the 25th Annual Polish Harvest Festival (Dożynki) This milestone celebration invites the entire Boston community to experience a full day of culture, food, music, and family fun, honoring both the tradition’s deep roots and its vibrant local presence.
The festival opens with Mass at 11:00 a.m., followed by a thanksgiving procession led by festival hosts in traditional Polish folk attire. Festivities on the parish grounds will run throughout the day, beginning with coffee and homemade pastries available from 10:00 a.m.
Highlights of the anniversary program include:
“Reaching the 25th anniversary of Dożynki in Boston is a moment of pride for our parish and community,” said Fr. Jerzy Żebrowski, pastor of Our Lady of
Czestochowa Parish. “While we honor centuries-old harvest traditions, this festival above all celebrates Polish culture and hospitality. We invite everyone – PolishAmericans and all Bostonians alike – to join us. On this day, everyone is Polish.”
The Harvest Festival has become a beloved tradition in Boston, growing in popularity each year and offering a unique cultural experience in the heart of the city. Rain or shine, the 25th Anniversary Dożynki promises a vibrant atmosphere filled with music, food, and community spirit.
Event Details:
• Date: Sunday, September 21, 2025
• Time: Starting at 10:00 a.m. | Mass at 11:00 a.m. | Festival to follow at 12:00 p.m.
• Location: Our Lady of Czestochowa Parish, 655 Dorchester Avenue, Boston, MA
• Website: www.ourladyofczestochowa.com
• Phone: 617-268-4355
MAYOR WU, ASIAN COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION, AND CHINATOWN RESIDENTS BREAK GROUND ON DEVELOPMENT PROJECT AT 55 HUDSON STREET
New development will create 110 affordable homes and a permanent Chinatown branch of the Boston Public Library
Mayor Michelle Wu today joined the Asian Community Development Corporation (ACDC), the Boston Public Library (BPL), the Mayor’s Office of Housing (MOH), the City of Boston’s Public Facilities Department (PFD), the City of Boston’s Planning Department, the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities (EOHLC), MassHousing, elected officials, and community partners to celebrate the groundbreaking of the Parcel R-1 redevelopment at 55 Hudson Street in Chinatown. The project will bring 110 affordable homes and a new permanent Chinatown branch of the Boston Public Library to the neighborhood, turning a city-owned parking lot into a community anchor.
The 12-story, mixed-use building will include 66 affordable rental apartments and 44 affordable homeownership units, built above a twostory, 17,000-square-foot library. This development fulfills a decades-long request from Chinatown residents for a permanent library while ensuring that working families can continue to call the neighborhood home.
“55 Hudson Street will bring new affordable housing units and a vibrant library branch to Chinatown, supporting residents with the resources they need,” said Mayor Michelle Wu. “I am thankful for the leadership of the Asian Community Development Corporation and the incredible collaboration between our City departments, which allowed this groundbreaking project to come to life. As we work to make Boston a home for everyone, these new additions to Chinatown will ensure that Boston remains a city where our communities can thrive.”
“This project is more than new housing and a library, it’s an investment in the long-term stability of Chinatown,” said Sheila Dillon, Chief of Housing.
“55 Hudson creates affordable homes for families at a range of incomes, while also adding a permanent space for learning and gathering. It represents the kind of community-centered development that strengthens neighborhoods and keeps Boston affordable for generations to come.”
“ACDC is honored to lead this project in partnership with the City of Boston and the Chinatown community,” said Angie Liou, Executive Director of ACDC. “For decades, community activists and residents have fought against urban renewal and gentrification in Chinatown. By creating affordable housing opportunities and a permanent home for the Chinatown Library, this development will complete the reknitting of the fabric of historic Hudson Street.”
The branch will feature more than 7,000 square feet of space dedicated to collections and reading areas, as well as separate teen and children’s spaces. Additionally, it will include nearly 4,000 square feet of community and multigenerational gathering spaces, including a community room with a capacity for 100 people.
“This is a truly historic day,” said David Leonard, President of the Boston Public Library. “After nearly 70 years, it is time to return a permanent branch library to the Chinatown community. We are grateful to Mayor Wu for the capital investments that make this possible, and we are especially grateful to the Chinatown community and many generations of young advocates for their decades-long, fierce advocacy for library services. We look forward to significantly expanding access to learning, technology, and connection for all of Chinatown’s residents and visitors.”
“MassHousing is proud to be part of this visionary project creating 110 new homes and building a vibrant community space for the residents of Chinatown,” said MassHousing CEO Chrystal Kornegay.
The design, led by Stantec, features a glazed brick and glass façade and energy-efficient elements, including LED lighting programmed with animation sequences at night. The project is part of Boston’s Housing with Public Assets initiative, which utilizes public land to deliver affordable housing paired with
essential neighborhood resources.
“This groundbreaking is the culmination of decades of advocacy by the Chinatown community for affordable housing and a neighborhood branch of the Boston Public Library,” said Chief of Planning Kairos Shen. “I am proud we were able to offer this public land to create new, affordable homes and a vital community space which Bostonians will use for decades to come. Thank you to the many staff people involved in this process, and of course to the community for their collaboration.”
“The Community Preservation Act was designed to ensure Boston invests in lasting community assets,” said Thadine Brown, Director of the Community Preservation Office. “By helping fund 55 Hudson, we’re supporting both affordable housing and a permanent library — resources that will strengthen Chinatown for generations. This project shows how CPA dollars can directly improve quality of life for residents
while preserving the character and vitality of our neighborhoods.”
The 55 Hudson Street project builds on years of planning and advocacy for affordable housing and community facilities in Chinatown. It reflects Mayor Wu’s commitment to making Boston a home for everyone. To expand affordable housing across the city, Mayor Wu has directed new financial resources into mixed-income housing, commissioned a public land audit to maximize the use of City-owned land, and streamlined approval processes to cut permitting times by more than 25 percent. She has also advanced changes to zoning and development policies, including Linkage and Inclusionary Zoning, that are helping drive the creation of affordable housing by private developers. These efforts, combined with new developments like 55 Hudson Street, are bringing more affordable housing to neighborhoods across Boston.
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South Boston Catholic Academy News
SBCA - 6th Grade News
The 6th Grade students at South Boston Catholic Academy led the school in the Welcome Back to School Mass. This Mass was the Feast Day of the “Memorial of the Most Holy Name of Mary”. The 6th Graders did an amazing job as Greeters, with the Scripture Readings, Prayers of the Faithful, and bringing up the Gifts to the Altar. Our SBCA Choir did a
wonderful job singing at this Mass, too, some of the songs included the Opening Song: “Table of Plenty”, the Communion Song...”Ave Maria”, and the Recessional Hymn: “I Will Sing Forever.” They were led by both our talented Music Teacher, Mr. Carlo Bunyi and our Parish Music Director/Organist, Mr. Ryan Lynch. Thank you to the 6th Grade Teacher, Ms. Faith Smith, for preparing the
students for this Mass. Our Pastor, Father Robert Casey, was the Celebrant at this Mass and our Parochial Vicar, Father Peter Schirripa, was the Concelebrant. Father Casey, said “It’s going to be another great year here at South Boston Catholic Academy!” and said a special prayer for all the students, parents, families, faculty and staff at SBCA. Here are some wonderful
and meaningful quotes as we start a new school year...”Be Kind”Luke 6:31, “Kindness costs nothing, yet it has the power to change lives,” and “Wisdom begins with a humble heart:”-St. Scholastica. “The soul grows by learning,”-St. Augustine. “Education is based on three things: the heart, the head, and the hand.” -Don (John) Bosco. New families are welcome to email our admissions team at admissions@sbcatholicacademy. org for more info. about South Boston Catholic Academy.
St. Peter Academy
St. Peter Academy Visits the South Boston Library
Today K1-1st Grade went on their first field trip to the South Boston Public Library. Some children received their very first library card today. The children enjoyed Ms. Dani reading the book aloud, The Very Big Fall. This was
a great story all about the season of Fall and the different types of leaves. The teachers and children are looking forward to our bi-weekly field trips to the library. Thank you Ms. Dani for a great first visit.
St. Peter Academy is accept-
ing applications for the current school year. St. Peter Academy is an independent, communitybased private school and serves students from ages 15 months through grade 6. SPA is currently accepting applications for the limited spaces available in the year-round toddler program (beginning at age 15 months) and for students in Pre-K (School Year and Full Year Programs),
Kindergarten and grades 1-6. Financial Aid Available. Two Scholarships will be offered this year for applicants for Grades 1 through 6. You may request scholarship information from the Front Office (spa@stpeteracademy.com). Appointments for individual virtual tours can be made by contacting Maria Blasi, at 617-268-0750 or by emailing spa@StPeterAcademy.com.
Victory for Open Space: Sister Mary Veronica Park Officially Preserved
On Monday, September 15th, the news of Sister Mary Veronica Park brought smiles and a sense of accomplishment to the neighborhood. The City of Boston has formally acquired and preserved Sister Mary Veronica Park, thanks to funding from the Community Preservation Act and the Open Space Acquisition Fund of the Boston Parks and Recreation Department. This acquisition ensures the protection of this beloved pocket park nestled between F Street, West 8th Street, and Grimes Street for generations to come. This important preservation milestone would not have been possible without the collaboration of the Committee to Save
Sister Mary Veronica Park, South Boston elected officials, Mayor Michelle Wu, and the Archdiocese of Boston, who worked closely with neighbors to safeguard this cherished community space. The paperwork is now complete!
For years, Sister Mary Veronica Park has been a point of concern in the neighborhood, with the potential threat of sale and the loss of five mature trees weighing heavily on residents. In 2023, more than 2,000 South Boston residents signed a petition calling for the park to be saved. Together, they delivered.
The park holds special significance in our community. It was named after Sister Mary Veronica, a South Boston
native who became a nun in the Sisters of Notre Dame Order in 1939. The park, originally a vacant lot, was transformed through grassroots efforts and was officially dedicated on November 23, 1968. At the time, it was reported to be “the first vest pocket park in a non-urban renewal area in the City of Boston.”
When discussions about the park’s future arose in 2023, South Boston elected officials made it clear they would not support any development on the land. This message was echoed during an on-site community meeting and throughout a series of collaborative discussions between residents and city officials.
The Committee to Save Sister Mary
Veronica Park and our neighbors who never gave up on this space, you are appreciated. Your advocacy made this happen. Special thanks to:
Vicky Shen, Pattie McCormack, Kevin Conroy, Karan Dimartino, Langdon White, Luanne O’Connor, Sonia Tan, and Margaret Itri.
Thank you to Saint Peter Academy for coming, singing and being part of this wonderful park!
Let this moment serve as a reminder of what we can achieve when we work together. It is vital that we continue to protect our neighborhood’s open spaces, mature trees, and historic pocket parks because they are more than green space; they are the soul of our community.
South Boston Honors Its Own at 44th Anniversary of The Vietnam Memorial “If
This past Sunday, the South Boston community once again came together in strength, spirit, and solidarity to mark the 44th anniversary of the South Boston Vietnam Memorial at Medal of Honor Park. This annual rededication was a powerful reminder of what makes South Boston truly special: our deep respect for service, sacrifice, and the unbreakable bond of community.
Led by Tom Lyons and the South Boston Vietnam Memorial Committee, the ceremony honored the 25 young men from South Boston who never came home from Vietnam and it stood as a testament to the prom-
You Forget My Death,
ise made decades ago: They will never be forgotten.
The morning began with tradition and reverence. The Greater Boston Firefighters Pipes & Drums led the procession. The U.S. Navy presented the Colors. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited, and Stephen McNulty of the Boston Police Department moved the crowd with a heartfelt performance of the National Anthem.
Tom Lyons welcomed neighbors, veterans, families, local elected officials, South Vietnamese veterans, and Mayor Michelle Wu. Father Casey offered the Invocation, setting the tone for what would be a deeply moving ceremony.
Then I
Died in Vain”
This year’s keynote speaker, Major General Gary W. Keefe, Adjutant General of the Massachusetts National Guard, spoke with humility and heart. He reflected on the meaning of service and sacrifice and shared how honored he was to stand in South Boston, a neighborhood known for always showing up, always remembering, and always taking care of its own.
One of the most powerful aspects of the ceremony wasn’t just the names etched in stone, but the faces in the crowd; Gold Star families, Vietnam veterans, neighborhood kids, and longtime residents standing side by side, honoring a promise that has
been kept for 44 years and counting. Because in South Boston, we don’t forget. We don’t let go. And we don’t take for granted the freedoms we enjoy, freedoms paid for by those who gave everything.
A heartfelt thank you goes out to all who contributed to the day’s success, the volunteers, planning committee, community partners, honored guests, and especially the Gold Star families. Your dedication ensures that these heroes’ legacies live on.
South Boston has always stood tall when it comes to loyalty and love of country and Sunday was one more powerful reminder of that.
Honoring Our Heroes: A Tribute to South Boston’s Patriotism
This past Sunday, many of you may have noticed a powerful and moving display at the Vietnam Memorial Circle in South Boston. Memorial posters, each honoring one of the 25 local heroes whose names are etched into the South Boston Vietnam Veterans Memorial, stood proudly in silent tribute. American flags lined the route from L Street to Farragut Road, symbolizing the deep and enduring patriotism of this community.
We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to two proud sons of South Boston, Joe Cook and Bobby Ferrara for their dedication to preserving the memory and meaning behind this sacred site. Their actions this weekend brought forth the pride, integrity, and respect that have always defined the spirit of South Boston.
When asked about the Memo-
rial Posters, one created for each of the 25 names on the Memorial, Joe Cook humbly shared:
“I was just a little boy when those guys went away to fight in the war. As the younger kids, we looked up to the big kids in the neighborhood who went away to defend our country—they were our heroes.”
Bobby Ferrara – Flags Over Broadway, added with heartfelt conviction:
“Just trying to show the rest of the country that South Boston is one of the most patriotic communities in the country. Always has been, always will be.”
Roll Call: South Boston’s Fallen Heroes
We now take a moment to read the names of those South Boston sons who gave their lives in service during the Vietnam War. These are the names engraved in granite at the South Boston Vietnam Memorial,
and forever etched into the heart of this neighborhood.
1. Joseph J. Agri, LCpl, USMC
2. Charles A. Bazzinotti, 1st Lt, USA
3. Richard J. Borovick, SP4, USA
4. John C. Calhoun, LCpl, USMC
5. John H. Cole, PFC, USMC
6. Paul M. Daley, SP6, USA
7. Ronald L. Delverde, PFC, USMC
8. Joseph F. Desmond, PFC, USMC
9. Joseph W. Dunn, PFC, USMC
10. Devon M. Enman, Sgt, USA
11. Gene D. Grover, SSgt, USMC
12. Frank C. Hubicsak, PFC, USA
13. Douglas J. Itri, SP5, USA
14. John P. Jacobs, Cpl, USMC
15. John G. Joyce, Cpl, USA
16. Edward W. Milan, Sgt, USAF
17. James O’Toole, PFC, USA
18. Burton Peterson, LCpl, USMC
19. Paul H. Sheehan, 1st Sgt, USMC
20. James J. Stewart, PFC, USMC
21. Edward Stone, PFC, USMC
22. Edward M. Sullivan, PFC, USMC
23. Joseph E. Thomas, PFC, USMC
24. Donald J. Turner, LCpl, USMC
25. James K. Wheeler, SP6, USA
Never Forgotten
As we reflect on the meaning behind these names and the men they represent, we are reminded of the enduring strength of our community. These 25 individuals made the ultimate sacrifice, and thanks to the efforts of those who continue to honor their memory, they will never be forgotten.
South Boston has always been a community rooted in service and sacrifice. The tribute seen this past Sunday was a powerful reminder that our neighborhood’s heart still beats strong with pride, patriotism, and respect.
To those who continue to carry the torch of remembrance thank you. You remind us all what it truly means to be from South Boston.
