South Boston Today April 2 2026

While We Celebrate Easter In The US, Jerusalem Heads Into Subdued Passover And Easter

Celebrations canceled and shops shuttered after missile fragments fell in Old City; Home Front Command limits religious gatherings to 50 people. Jerusalem’s major holy sites are shuttered and many families are dejected and exhausted ahead of Passover and Easter as the Iran war enters its fifth week.

The mood stands in stark contrast to a usual spring, when longer days herald a period of family gatherings and an influx of tourists for the major Jewish and Christian holidays. Metal shutters are drawn on nearly all stores in the Old City, home to key holy sites, and only scat-

Easter Tradition Continues Sunrise Mass and Service at Castle Island Sunday 6:20am

The arrival of Easter this Sunday brings with it one of the most beautiful traditions South Boston has to offer. The traditional Sunrise Mass at Castle Island will take place at 6:20:am on the channel side of Fort Independence with the ocean as the setting as the sun first peeks over the horizon from the East.

The Castle Island Association started the tradition back in 1980 and has been a major part of this event ever since. From the first year, with the Mass being said by Father Kelleher of Don Bosco, who was followed by Father Fleming of St Brigid Church, this moving ceremony draws at times thousands of people who get up before dawn on Easter Morning and make the trek to ‘The Island’ by car, bicycle, on foot, by shuttle and now even by Uber or Lyft to experience one of the most unique religious

gatherings around. The Sunrise Mass and Service continues to gain in popularity with each passing year and if weather cooperates, draws large crowds each time.

Over the years, people have come in from many surrounding communities and other states to be part of this sacred event to celebrate the Holiest of times on the Christian Calendar.

As all know, Easter celebrates the Resurrection of Jesus Christ 3 days after he was taken down from the cross and was buried.

Here, the traditional Catholic Mass will be celebrated and all people of every faith are welcome to be part of it. Holy Communion will be given to those who wish to receive. A portable altar will be set up from which the Mass will be said.

The Service lasts approximately one hour from the time it commences.

Many attendees bring along their own chairs as

there is very little seating on that side of the island. It’s also recommended that you check the weather forecast for Sunday Morning so you can dress for whatever nature brings. Because it is such an early time of day and Easter comes early in the season this year, sweaters and or jackets are advised.

Even if you attend your regular Mass or Service at your traditional Church on Easter Sunday in addition to the Sunrise Mass, it is said that attending the Sunrise Mass at castle Island as well is very special indeed and often adds to the spirit of this wonderful season. If this will be your first time, when you arrive at Castle Island, just go to the left of Fort Independence. You’ll have no problem finding where the Mass will be said. Just follow the crowd and be prepared to enjoy an inspiring and spiritual experience. From all of us here at South Boston Today, to all of you – Have a Happy and Blessed Easter.

AInformation Center The Comments/Observations On No Kings Day

llow me to start and finish this week’s column with some commentary on what was called the ‘No Kings Day’ protests last week. A lot of people on social media and the traditional media as well were asking the question as to where were the MAGA counter protesters? In fact, one liberal reporter called my office line this past Tuesday to ask me the same question. Since I have nothing but contempt and distrust for most of the left wing media, I usually either don’t bother taking their calls or answer just long enough to tell them to piss off. But seeing that it’s Holy Week, I figured I’d be nice and talk to the woman and give her some answers; most of which she didn’t want to hear. Facts turn so many reporters off and they just write what they want to and slant it the way they want it presented. It’s what they do and most people know it.

As I explained to the rude lady scribe, there were no massive organized counter protesters from MAGA because they were not necessary. Most patriotic Americans weren’t concerned about the No Kings Day demonstrations for a few reasons. For one, the protesters were out marching about something that doesn’t even exist. As most sane people know, we don’t have a king in America no matter how leftists try to spin it. One bystander, not part of the protests was interviewed at the gathering on the Boston Common gave this quote: “I guess we can’t really expect people who can’t explain the difference between a man and a woman to know the difference between a king and a president”.

We haven’t had a king in charge for 250 years but Americans WILL be out in force this summer celebrating that fact with what will really be the biggest demonstration of national pride since 1776. It will be festive, one of joy and happiness and the true American spirit will be on full display. Unlike the No Kings day, it won’t be filled with hate, loathing and ridiculous theatrics.

Patriotic Americans, which certainly includes MAGA, don’t express themselves by carrying Communist flags and the flags of foreign countries; countries that are ruled by REAL king like dictators or pictures of the no longer among the living Ayatollah or the currently jailed drug king pin Maduro. They don’t dress up as frogs, giraffes, chickens, dinosaurs or carry balloons. MAGA patriots don’t block streets, scream insults and obscenities at police officers and bang on pots and pans. Most people by now may have seen the video of the 20 or so women who appeared to be in their mid 40’s to early 60’s with blue hair and nose rings literally crawling along the streets in Times Square, NYC with No Kings signs around their necks as a protest against President Trump. Lol, how can anyone take these people seriously?

While this spectacle was taking place in cities around the country, normal Americans of all backgrounds, races, ages and demographics were going about their daily lives as they would on any first weekend of spring. Some were working; others were with their families enjoying the nice weather. Other activities like grocery shopping, walking their dogs or maybe working on their cars were also going on by people who could not care less about the silly circus taking place. Did the protesters have the right to be out in force demonstrating against a president and in some cases a country they apparently hate? Yes, absolutely, this is America. But the fact that they were out there doing it shows without a doubt that, as was stated above, they were demonstrating against something that doesn’t exist. Because if America did have a king or a dictator, these protests would not even be allowed. One only has to look at what happened to the Iranian citizens who dared take to the streets and protest the Ayatollah, who so many in the No Kings rallies seem to mourn. More than 30,000 of them were slaughtered by

their government. Can the contrast be any more clear than that?

Here’s something that is being exposed now about the No Kings Day. The claims that 8 million people took part and was the biggest demonstration in the nation’s history are said to be bogus. The claim of course comes from the leftist organizers. They threw out that number, the media; without question picked up on it and ran with it. And yet, many police sources who are responsible for crowd estimates at large gatherings in their cities and towns, when combined and tallied nationwide, indicate that in no way did 8 million take part in the No Kings Day - barely half

that many showed up. In addition to the inflated numbers, some pictures of the crowds were said to be photo shopped and even substituted with large crowds at past gatherings such as rock concerts. And while even 4 million is a large number, it goes to show how dishonest manipulators of the news can be.

In closing, has anything changed after the third of 3 No Kings Days has come and gone? Actually not much if anything. The Trump haters are still going to hate him, MAGA is still going to love the guy and Donald Trump is still president in every location that he was before. I for one am very happy that he is.

Window Into The State House

Galvin: Legislature’s critique of ballot questions is ‘ignoring’ state constitution

Auditor Diana DiZoglio doesn’t have a monopoly these days as a statewide officeholder scrapping with the Legislature.

Secretary of State Bill Galvin, who if you count his years in the House has spent more time in public office than DiZoglio’s been alive, is getting his own blows in.

His dry style is a little different from hers, however. She personally slags away at her opponents on social media. The Prince of Darkness, as some know him, doesn’t tweet. But what the two Democrats have in common is a populist streak: Both are riding herd on ballot question proposals this year: DiZoglio is seeking to put the Legislature and the governor’s office under the state’s public records law, while Galvin wants to allow voters to register to vote and vote on Election Day. (Twenty states, plus D.C., allow it.)

Some local officials, who say they’re overworked and on the verge

Tof burnout, are concerned that this will make their jobs more difficult. But supporters of Galvin’s measure, which would go into effect for the 2028 election cycle, say evidence from across the country shows it can increase turnout, and upfront costs will diminish over time as it’s implemented by municipalities.

Appearing Tuesday before a panel of lawmakers eyeing the dozen ballot questions with unease, Galvin suggested that passing his proposal into law, and avoiding a ballot fight, will lighten the load. If you think the number of ballot questions is so terrible, he told them, “do something about it.”

Rep. Mike Day, who has taken the lead in tangling with ballot question proponents, pushed back on the argument that supporters are heading to the ballot box because lawmakers haven’t taken any action on the proposals. Lawmakers just haven’t voted in the way you wanted, he told Galvin.

In the hallway after testifiying, Galvin said that he doesn’t usually sponsor ballot petitions, but sup-

porters have waited long enough for lawmakers to act. He suggested that lawmakers haven’t approved the measure out of self-interest: They don’t want to expand the pool of voters. (Massachusetts has plenty of college towns, after all, and their students could take advantage of Election Day registration.)

“The reason cited by the principal opponents has been, it makes it more difficult to campaign. I won’t use their exact language because I don’t recall it, but I’m sure you can find it,” he said. “But basically, they didn’t like their constituencies having new members so quickly that they didn’t get to meet them or something.”

As for House Speaker Ron Mariano, who complained in February about statewide officials like DiZoglio and Galvin getting involved in “legislative issues,” and criticized the ballot question process, Galvin said Mariano is “ignoring” the Massachusetts constitution.

“The constitution provided this specifically as a safety valve on the Legislature back then [in 1919],”

Galvin said of ballot questions. “It had nothing to do with them, or the Democratic Party, [it] wasn’t a Democratic legislature at the time. So it’s clear this is the right of the voters, and he seems to take offense with them exercising it.”

Mariano disagreed. “The Speaker stands by his critiques of how the initiative petition process has, at times, been weaponized by special interest groups and wealthy individuals seeking to purchase access to the ballot,” a spokesperson said via email.

Galvin and DiZoglio are also up for reelection to their respective offices this year. Which one do you see topping the statewide ticket in terms of total votes? Send me your predictions: gin@massterlist.com.

AROUND TOWN

David Rubenstein, founder of the D.C.-based private equity firm Carlyle Group and owner of the Baltimore Orioles, is gifting a copy of the Declaration of Independence to the Edward M. Kennedy Institute for the U.S. Senate in Dorchester. Rubenstein, who is known for buying up historic documents, announced the donation before he sat down for a fireside chat about the American Dream with Tracy Palandjian, CEO and co-founder of the nonprofit Social Finance. In 1823, John Quincy

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The April 15th tax filing deadline is around the corner: residents who earned up to $69,000 last year are eligible for free tax preparation services Pay off debt, add to your savings with a lump-sum tax return payment

he April 15th tax filing deadline is around the corner, and Action for Boston Community Development (ABCD) urges Greater Boston and Mystic Valley residents who earned $69,000 or less in 2025 to schedule a FREE in-person tax prep appointment at one of its 12 neighborhood sites by calling 617-348-6329 or visiting bostonabcd.org/tax.

“We are proud to be a longstanding partner of the IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program and co-founder of the Boston Tax Help Coalition,” said ABCD President and CEO Sharon Scott-Chandler. “Last season, ABCD completed nearly 3,600 tax returns and brought more than $7M in federal and state refunds back to the community. For hardworking people who are struggling, seniors and those who live with disabilities, a potential tax

refund makes a big difference. Eligible Greater Boston and Mystic Valley residents are encouraged to use this program – it’s safe, accurate and reliable.”

The program assists residents with tax preparation, financial education, economic stability opportunities and helps build wealth. ABCD IRS-certified tax volunteers are multilingual – fluent in eight languages including English, Spanish, French, Mandarin, Cantonese, Vietnamese, Cape Verdean Creole and Haitian Creole. Free tax preparation services are available to:

• People who generally earned $69,000 or less in 2025

• People with disabilities

• Limited English-speaking taxpayers.

A list of required documents to complete tax returns can be found here. Tax preparers ensure that residents

receive every tax relief measure to which they are entitled including:

• EITC – Earned Income Tax Credit – one of America’s most effective anti-poverty initiatives. EITC is a tax deduction that rewards work. This year, a Married Filing Jointly family with three or more children, earning up to $68,675, can receive federal and state EITC deductions totaling $8,046. EITC can be claimed retroactively for three years prior.

• CTC – CHILD TAX CREDIT – helps families get a tax break of $2,200 per qualifying child.

• SENIOR CIRCUIT BREAKER – a state tax deduction providing seniors age 65 and older who pay unsubsidized rent or property taxes. The current maximum credit amount is $2,820.

Councilor Flynn to Hold a Hearing to Ban Mopeds & E-Bikes for Third-Party Food Delivery April 7th

Next Tuesday, April 7th at 10:00am in the Iannella Chamber at City Hall, Boston City Councilor Ed Flynn will hold a hearing to discuss his proposed ordinance to ban mopeds and e-bikes for third-party food delivery. Interested neighbors who would like to attend the hearing in-person, or to testify virtually via Zoom, are invited to please reach out to meagan.corugedo@boston.gov. If you would like to also provide written testimony, you can email the committee at ccc.go@boston.gov or email ed.flynn@boston.gov. Neighbors are also invited to watch the livestream of the hearing at the following link: www. boston.gov/city-council-tv.

Last fall, a person tragically passed

This week, Boston City Councilors Ed Flynn and Erin Murphy filed a hearing order to discuss staffing levels in the Boston Police Department (BPD). The longstanding issues of understaffing, overstretched resources, forced overtime, and looming

away weeks after a collision near Copley Square. Councilor Flynn maintains it is critical that the Council act to prevent more people from getting hurt, including the drivers themselves. There have also been reports on how third-party companies have potentially incentivized workers to prioritize speed over safety in order to receive more orders and tips, to keep high ratings, and their jobs.

Councilor Flynn has emphasized that food delivery wasn’t always this way until just a few years ago. In 2022, 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 to two-wheeled vehicles due to 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. In February 2025, the City announced removal of the bus lane. In a letter to the City Council, Uber Eats confirmed 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 April 2024, the Council passed the Mayor’s Ordinance to require third-party delivery giants (Uber East, Grubhub, DoorDash) to obtain a permit; however, it’s unclear drivers will be able to obtain liability insurance, and concerns on enforcement remain.

“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.

Councilors Flynn and Murphy File Hearing Order on Boston Police Staffing Levels

retirements at the Boston Police Department is a public safety and public health emergency, which also disregards officers’ personal physical and emotional well-being, as well as that of their families.

In July of 1980, the minimum number of patrolmen at a given time for the Boston Police Department rose from 2,300 to 2,500 by law in the City Municipal Code to ensure adequate staffing among detailing projects and other police duties. The increase in voluntary retirement and resignations resulted in mandatory overtime for police officers. In fact, resignations rose from one in 2018 to thirty six in 2022, while voluntary retirement rose from seventeen in 2018 to 127 in 2022. Current staff is ordered to fill those gaps, resulting in the physical and emotional burnout in the officers, and potentially diminished ability to serve Boston residents.

The environment at the Boston Police Department must be one that fosters a strong relationship

within the community. It is important that there is trust between officers and the residents, and officers and their superiors. Officers who feel valued and respected are more likely to have positive interactions with the public, ultimately improving trust and cooperation through community policing.

Boston Police needs a consistent influx of recruits to replace those that are retiring, resigning, and transferring to other police departments throughout Massachusetts to help prevent shortages. There are several recruiting practices that can be put in place to increase staffing, including mentorship programs, incentive programs, and community outreach.

“Having sufficient police staffing levels is critical to help make the streets of Boston safer for all neighbors, and to improve the health and quality of life of our dedicated police officers. The issues of understaffing, mandated overtime and overstretched resources will not be resolved without a commitment to hire

hundreds of officers every year for an extended period of time,” said Councilor Flynn. “In my opinion, it is not okay for officers to be mandated to work excessive hours. This is a public health and public safety issue that we need to address for our residents, our police officers, and their families.”

“An unacceptable risk to individual and public health arises in all of Boston’s neighborhoods when the people who are entrusted with keeping the City safe are overworked and stretched too far,” said Councilor Erin Murphy. “The hiring, retention, and full staffing of our Police Department provide the people of Boston with the highest quality public health and public safety services possible, and those services are essential to ensuring Boston is the world-class city it can be and the world-class city the people of Boston deserve.”

For more information, please contact Councilor Flynn’s office at 617-635-3203 or Ed.Flynn@ Boston.gov.

Easter continued from front page

tered footsteps echo on deserted stone alleyways. Vast plazas are missing the typical throngs of faithful and tourists.

Jerusalem has largely escaped past wars, with Israel’s enemies appearing to be hesitant to launch missiles near the city’s Muslim holy sites. But since Israel and the United States launched strikes on Iran on February 28, Jerusalem has repeatedly come under fire. Earlier this month, an intercepted Iranian missile sprayed shrapnel on the rooftop of the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate, just steps from the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, one of the most important sites in Christianity.

The church, built on what is revered by many Christians as the site of Jesus’ crucifixion, burial and resurrection, remains closed under IDF Home Front Command guidelines prohibiting gatherings of more than 50 people. Missile debris also hit a road leading to the Western Wall.

At the Western Wall, the massive priestly blessing for Passover, which usually draws tens of thousands, will take place with just 50 worshipers. That’s the maximum allowed to pray together in the enclosed area by the Western Wall under wartime safety guidelines — reminiscent of the restrictions imposed during the coronavirus pandemic.

The Latin Patriarchate has canceled a procession on Sunday commemorating Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem, the Christian celebration known as Palm Sunday. Any other year, tens of thousands of Christians from around the world would walk down the narrow, hilly streets toward the Old City, waving palm fronds and singing. The Old City has always been a bit off limits for international terror and war, but not this time.

Jerusalem’s smaller synagogues, mosques and churches are also open to groups of up to 50 people — if they are located close to a shelter or a safe space.

Next to the Western Wall is the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound, Islam’s third-holiest site, which has also stood empty since the war started, canceling prayers during most of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, which ended in mid-March.

A third-generation Muslim storeowner in the Old City whose shop has catered to Christian pilgrims since 1942 was ordered by police to close his shop. Israelis have grown weary after nearly a month of daily sirens, 16 civilian deaths and dozens of people seriously injured.

For Seder, Jewish families are planning smaller, stripped-down ceremonial Passover dinners that commemorate the Jewish exodus from Egypt — a far cry from times when large family gatherings often welcomed relatives from abroad.

Ben Gurion Airport has been operating on a severely limited basis throughout the war. Many point out the irony that ahead of Passover, Israelis are fleeing the country through the land border crossing with Egypt to the Sinai desert, while the holiday commemorates the story of ancient Israelites leaving Egypt via Sinai to Israel. Observant Jewish families are frantically cleaning for Passover to remove traces of leavening, which requires “turning the house upside-down.

Here is the United States, we do not feel the direct effects of the military decimation by extraordinary weapons. We should, however, pray for those in the direct line of fire. Count your blessings.

ACare With Confidence Alzheimer’s Support Group Sponsored by Compass on the Bay

pril 14, 2026, 12:00 pm at South Boston Neighborhood House, 136 H Street, South Boston. Dealing with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementia isn’t easy, so it is helpful to share your concerns and personal experiences with others who completely understand what you’re going through. You will also learn about proven strategies to help you better care for your family member. RSVP to Carole Sullivan at csullivan@sbnh.org or call 617-268-1619 for more information. This group will be held on the second Tuesday of each month, and is sponsored by South Boston Neighborhood House and Compass on the Bay Assisted Living and Memory Support Community, 1380 Columbia Road, South Boston.

Window continued from page 4

Adams had a printer to make 200 copies of a signed copy of the Declaration, and Rubenstein said he owns a “fair number” of the 40 or so that remain in existence. “I have replicas being made now” and giving them to major U.S. sports team owners to put them on display in stadiums, “and I’ll have one that can be displayed here,” he told the crowd gathered on Monday night.

Boston Legacy FC, the new women’s professional soccer team, has hired the powerhouse firm Smith, Costello & Crawford for its state, local and federal lobbying needs. The team, founded and led by wom -

en, kicked off its inaugural season March 14 at Gillette Stadium.

AFSCME Council 93, which represents 45,000 state, county and municipal employees across four states, made a rare foray into a Congressional race with an endorsement of Dan Koh, who is close to labor leader Marty Walsh, in the Democratic primary for the Massachusetts 6th seat. “We need to fill as many of those seats as possible with people who will aggressively and vocally fight against policies and initiatives that place the needs of billionaires and corporations ahead of middle-class America,” Mark Bernard, the

union’s executive director, said in a statement. “We are confident we have found such a man in Dan Koh and we look forward to his victory in the primary, and ultimately, in the general election.”

Jordan Maynard has been reappointed to the fivemember Mass. Gaming Commission and will retain the chairmanship. Gov. Maura Healey, Attorney General Andrea Campbell and Treasurer Deb Goldberg made the joint reappointment, for a second five-year term, and Healey designated Maynard as chair again. The reappointment went into effect March 25. The commission has five full-time commissioners.

Happy Easter

On Tuesday, March 31st, Boston City Councilors Ed Flynn and Erin Murphy held a hearing to discuss chronic Boston Public Schools (BPS) school bus delays and special education transportation failures. BPS Transportation serves approximately 22,000 students and transports them across the city’s nine different districts every day.

BPS transportation still has not reached the 95% on-time arrival rate, with reports indicating BPS has only maintained a 90% on-time arrival rate in the morning, and merely 84% in the afternoon. Many parents continue to contact the city regarding excessive delays and changes in their child’s bus route, many of which had not been communicated with in advance.

Over the last several years, the unreliable use of the Zum app for BPS parents and families has seemingly exacerbated these issues. Many parents have written to city

Councilors Flynn and Murphy Hold Hearing on BPS Bus Delays

officials and their elected representatives about excessive delays for pick up and drop off, having to consistently drive their children due to buses failing to show up at all, the app becoming unavailable, or children having to provide directions to bus drivers.

BPS parents testified about the difficulties they have experienced with BPS transportation, including long afternoons wondering where their children were, and days of late starts at work due to delayed morning pickups. Some parents even testified that their child’s bus was delayed on the morning of the hearing. Parents also noted that BPS has the ability to fine Transdev $500 for every trip that is over an hour late or does not show up at all. The Administration indicated that BPS has not been following through on those fines, despite a sharp increase in school bus delays since December. Reimbursement for Ubers/Lyfts to or from school is available for

families with Individualized Education Programs (IDPs).

“It is unacceptable that for the last several years, BPS families and students with disabilities have had to endure the uncertainty as to whether their bus would arrive a half hour late, an hour late, or if it would arrive at all,” said Councilor Flynn.

“We can’t continue to normalize the chronic disruption for our school community, disregard the safety of our children, or downplay the negative impacts on quality of life for so many BPS families.”

“I want to thank the families, students, and educators who came forward and told the truth about what they are dealing with every day on our Boston Public Schools buses. What we heard at the hearing is not a delay problem, it is a system failure. Parents are building their own backup transportation systems, coordinating carpools and last-minute rides, just to get their kids to and from school. Students

are missing breakfast, missing classroom instruction, and in some cases missing entire days of school because the bus is late, canceled, or never shows up. Families are missing work, paying out of pocket for rides, and scrambling to make it all work, while teachers and school staff are staying late after dismissal to make sure students are safe. This is an equity issue. The families who can figure it out will, and the families who cannot are the ones most impacted. We are spending nearly $200 million on student transportation, yet ridership continues to decline and the system is not getting better. The expectation is simple. Buses should show up, on time, every day. No parent in Boston should have to wonder if their child made it to school safely or is sitting somewhere unaccounted for,” said Councilor Murphy.

For more information, please contact Councilor Flynn’s office at 617635-3203 or Ed.Flynn@Boston.gov.

Dorchester’s 17th Annual Saint Patrick’s Day Brunch was held at the Mary Ann Brett Food Pantry on Saturday, March 14.

In the photo: Jim Brett; Congressman Stephen Lynch; MA State Senator Nick Collins

Guy The Wine Some Easter Sunday Ideas

The wines in this week’s column all have one thing in common. They all offset the saltiness in ham; I don’t know how ham became the meat most associated with Easter dinner, but I do know that the following will all help put out the “salt fire” ....

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 ham and salty vegetables.

2024 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. One of my favorites is Schramsberg Sparkling wine ($21.99). 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, Pinot Noir, ($29.99). This is a complex, layered wine. Notes of cherries, blackberries, caramel and earth tones almost smother your palate; the finish is long and multi fla-

vored. This one is not only good with the usual items, but especially good with ham, 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.

If you’re out on the grill this week, try some 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. 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 blossom 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.

We hope you and yours have a safe and Happy Easter and Passover!

Swan Boats Opening Day on April 18, 2026

Mayor Michelle Wu, the Boston Parks and Recreation Department, and the Paget family will host the first ride of the season on the iconic Boston Swan Boats as they open at the Boston Public Garden Lagoon on Saturday, April 18, at 10:00 a.m.

2026 marks the 149th season for the Swan Boats, a beloved tourist attraction and iconic symbol of Boston and the Public Garden. The oldest and smallest boat in the fleet just celebrated its 116th season, while the newest was launched in 1993. The swan on the boats is made from either copper or fiberglass, depending on the age of the boat, and encloses a paddle mechanism that is used to propel the boat through the water.

Launched in 1877 by Irish immigrant and shipbuilder Robert Paget, the Swan Boats

continue to be owned and operated by the Paget family. Mr. Paget designed the Swan Boats after attending the opera Lohengrin in New York City. At the end of the opera, the hero crosses a river in a boat drawn by a swan. In 2025, the Swan Boats were added as a site on the Boston Irish Heritage Trail. Fully loaded, each Swan Boat weighs three tons and is powered by the driver using a foot-propelled paddle wheel. The Swan Boats are built on oak-framed pontoons sheathed in copper, just as they were initially constructed in 1877. After being stored in a safe place for the winter, the boats will return to the Public Garden Lagoon in the spring, with Mayor Wu celebrating the first ride of the season.

For more information, please visit boston. gov/swan-boats.

9 Fascinating Facts About the Easter story in the Bible

Holy Week

Church Schedule 2026

Here are some interesting facts you might not have known about Easter: Gate of Heaven Church/St. Brigid Church/St. Augustine Chapel

1. Easter is always on a Sunday

Have you ever wondered why Christmas can fall on any day of the week, but Easter is always on a Sunday? We don’t know the day of the week Jesus was born but we do know the day of the week Jesus rose from the dead.

Jesus’ resurrection took place on the Sunday after Passover. In Matthew 28:1, it’s confirmed that “Early on Sunday morning, as the new day was dawning, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went out to visit the tomb.” For this reason, Easter is always celebrated on a Sunday.

2. Good Friday is always the Friday before Easter

Jesus was crucified on the Friday afternoon before Passover. This is confirmed in Mark 15:42: “This all happened on Friday, the day of preparation, the day before the Sabbath. As evening approached.” For this reason, Good Friday is always celebrated the Friday before Easter.

3. Easter isn’t called “Easter” in the Bible

The Bible doesn’t actually name Easter the holiday. It comes from a translation of the German word Ostern. Easter is referred to in the King James translation of Acts 12:4, but is translated from the Greek word Pascha which means “Passover.”

4. Jesus died at 3pm

The book of Matthew gives us timestamps of Jesus’ crucifixion and death. Matthew 27:45 reads: “At noon, darkness fell across the whole land until three o’clock.” Imagine it going dark outside in the middle of the afternoon and how strange that would be – it was just as strange back then! The darkness symbolized the dwindling of Jesus’ life during his final hours.

5. An earthquake happened right after Jesus died

The Gospels paint a vivid picture of an Earthquake that shook the land upon Jesus’ death on the cross. Matthew 27:51 tells us that “the earth shook, rocks split apart.” What’s fascinating is 2000 years later, geologists confirmed that there was indeed seismic activity that took place in that region around that exact time.

6. Jesus’ death was predicted in the Bible

The prediction of Jesus’ death is found in

several passages of the Bible, particularly in the Old Testament – a section of the Bible written over 400 years before Jesus was born! One of the most well-known predictions is found in Isaiah 53:5:

“But he was pierced for our rebellion, crushed for our sins. He was beaten so we could be whole. He was whipped so we could be healed.”

This passage was written 700 years before Jesus was crucified and yet it describes in detail what would happen!

7. Women were the first people to know Jesus rose from the dead

In John 20:14-16, it describes Mary Magdalene encountering Jesus at the tomb, making her one of the first witnesses to know he was alive! Women being the first to see Jesus after his resurrection was significant – it challenged the societal norms of the time and affirmed the valuable role of women in sharing the Good News.

8. Jesus’ resurrected body was flesh and bone In Luke 24:39, Jesus reassures his disciples that he’s not just a ghost but is physically alive. Then, in John 20:27, he invites Thomas to touch his scars from the crucifixion, proving his real presence. These encounters highlight the concrete reality of Jesus’ resurrection, offering hope and assurance to all of us who follow him today.

9. Jesus’ resurrection is the basis of modern Christianity

The significance of Jesus’ resurrection cannot be overstated. Without it, our faith would be for nothing and we’d be burdened by sin. This is best represented by 1 Corinthians 15:17-19: “And if Christ has not been raised, then your faith is useless and you are still guilty of your sins. In that case, all who have died believing in Christ are lost! And if our hope in Christ is only for this life, we are more to be pitied than anyone in the world.”

This passage underscores the critical importance of the resurrection to the Christian faith. It emphasizes that without the resurrection of Jesus, Christianity would be devoid of meaning, and our beliefs would be in vain. When Jesus rose from the dead, he gave us hope and the assurance of eternal life and redemption from sin.

Good Friday:

3pm: Gate of Heaven Church – Mass 4:30pm: St. Augustine Chapel – Mass 7pm: St. Brigid Church – Mass

Holy Saturday: 7:30 pm: Easter Vigil – St. Brigid Church

Easter Sunday

6:20am – Sunrise Mass at Castle Island 8:am – St. Brigid Church – Mass 9:am - Gate of Heaven Church – Mass 10:30am –St. Brigid Church – Mass 12:Noon – Gate of Heaven Church – Mass (Note: There will be no 6:pm Mass on Easter Sunday)

(‘South Boston Seaport Collaborative’) St. Monica Church

Good Friday

Way of the Cross Walk: Meet at St. Monica Church at ‘10:45am’ 3:pm – St. Monica Church –Stations of the Cross 7:pm – St. Monica Church – Mass

Holy Saturday 8:pm – Easter Vigil

Easter Sunday 10:30am – Mass St. Peter Lithuanian Church

Holy Saturday 7:pm – Lithuanian Mass

Good Friday 7:pm – Lithuanian Mass

Easter Sunday 9:am – English Mass

The City of Boston’s Planning Department invites residents to participate in planning that will help shape the future of the City.

You can sign up to receive Planning Department emails and learn about opportunities to get involved here: bosplans.org/GetInvolved

Massport is currently accepting applications for the following scholarships:

• THOMAS J. BUTLER MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

Awarded to a high school senior who resides and is involved in community service in South Boston, with a minimum 3.0 GPA.

• DEBORAH HADDEN GRAY MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

Awarded to a high school senior who resides and is involved in community service or employment in the city of Boston, Chelsea, Revere or Winthrop, with a minimum 3.0 GPA.

• LOWELL L. RICHARDS III MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

Awarded to a high school senior who resides and is involved in community service in the city of Boston, Chelsea, Revere, or Winthrop, with a minimum 3.0 GPA.

• DIVERSITY STEM SCHOLARSHIP

Awarded annually to high school seniors who reside or attend school in the city of Boston, Chelsea, Winthrop, Revere, Worcester, Bedford, Concord, Lexington or Lincoln, and are involved in community service with a minimum 3.0 GPA.

Scholarship applications must be received by Massport no later than 5:00 p.m. on Friday, May 1, 2026.

For more information on these scholarships, including application links and criteria please visit, www.massport.com

Wipes that claim to be “flushable” and “sewer safe” in fact are not sewer friendly. These wipes do not break down as they travel through pipes and the public sewer system. Instead, they create backups in your home plumbing and can cause sewer overflows in the street. To protect your plumbing and the sanitary sewer system, only toilet paper belongs in the toilet. No wipes!

MAYOR MICHELLE WU ANNOUNCES LAUNCH OF BOSTON’S SUMMER YOUTH JOBS PROGRAM

Mayor Michelle Wu and the Office of Youth Employment and Opportunity (YEO) today announced that paid youth job applications are open for summer 2026. Boston youth and young adults ages 14 - 24 can apply now at futureBOS, a centralized hub for all youth employment opportunities in Boston, including opportunities from SuccessLink, the City’s youth jobs program. This announcement builds on Mayor Wu’s work to make Boston a home for everyone.

“Every young person in our City deserves the opportunity to grow, learn, and get started on a strong path to their future,” said Mayor Michelle Wu. “Each summer, this program opens doors by giving Boston’s youth hands-on work experience, new skills, and the chance to explore what they’re interested in. We’re working to ensure these opportunities reach young people across the city, and I encourage

everyone to apply early and take advantage of the resources available.”

“We are committed to ensuring that every Boston Public Schools student has access to experiences that support their growth both inside and outside the classroom,” said Boston Public Schools Superintendent Mary Skipper. “Summer jobs for our youth create meaningful pathways for students to explore their interests, gain real-world experience, develop critical skills and build pathways toward college and careers. Through our continued partnership with the City of Boston and the Office of Youth Employment and Opportunity, we are working to expand access, remove barriers and connect students to these opportunities while they are still in high school, setting them up for success beyond graduation.”

YEO goes beyond employment by partnering with Bank On Boston to provide youth with financial educa-

tion and banking opportunities. Of note, four local banks – Santander Bank, Citizens Bank, M&T Bank, and Metro Credit Union – will continue providing non-custodial, no-fee options to futureBOS participants, making it easy for them to open safe, non-predatory bank accounts, facilitating access to their summer earnings, and instilling good financial habits.

Youth are strongly encouraged to attend the Youth Job and Resource Fair at the Reggie Lewis Center on Saturday, April 18, 2026, to connect with over 100 summer employers, access career development resources, receive job application assistance, open bank accounts, and win prizes. Food will be provided for all young people. Parents and guardians are welcome to attend. This year, YEO is introducing a new timed entry-wave model to meet growing demand and ensure a safe event for all.

Registration is available on a

first-come, first-served basis and both time slots will offer access to the same resources for young people and you must select one time slot to attend the Fair:

* Future is Bright Fair – Wave A: Saturday, April 18 from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

* Making Money Moves Fair –Wave B: Saturday, April 18 from 2 p.m. – 5 p.m.

The summer youth employment program starts on June 23 and ends on August 29, 2026. Job applications will be accepted on a rolling basis, but youth are encouraged to apply early. There is a step-by-step guide available online to help youth navigate the application process. Youth can also visit the office in person, Monday - Friday, with dedicated onboarding hours from 12 pm to 5 pm at 1483 Tremont Street in Roxbury, or call 617-635-4202 for additional assistance. For more information, visit boston.gov/futureBOS.

The 24th Boston Marine Corps Honor Run 5K is BACK at Castle Island on Saturday, May 9, 2026!

We’re welcoming all of Boston for a morning of scenic views, solidarity, and fun as we salute the brave men and women who have served our country. In honor of the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Marine Corps, we are excited to raise awareness and funds for two military non-profits, the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation and Fisher House Boston.

The Marine Corps Honor Run is perfect for:

• A flat and fast 5K race (Set a new PR)

• A perfect way to kick off

Mother’s Day weekend (Postrace brunch, anyone?)

• An amazing challenge for your friends and roommates to see who’s in the best shape

• A meaningful way to recognize the sacrifices of current and retired members of the U.S. Marine Corps

The Marine Corps Honor Run features the fastest 5K course in Boston and is a great 5K for runners and walkers alike. Participants can enjoy a free warm-up, vendor samples, and scenic views even before setting foot on the course. Afterwards, you will receive our

exclusive race t-shirt and commemorative coin ( follow us on Facebook and Instagram to see the design before race day).

The Boston Marine Corps Honor Run 5K is more than just a race—it is a celebration of our community and its care for our Marines and Military personnel. Whether you’re active duty, connected to an active or retired member of the military, or just a local resident, we want YOU here with us. Register below!

https://runsignup.com/ Race/MA/Boston/BostonMarineCorpsHonorRun5K

South Boston Catholic Academy News

Happy Easter!

All the students in South Boston Catholic Academy had a chance to celebrate Easter with their classmates and participate in many great Easter projects, as you can see from the photos. We focused on Holy Week: Jesus’s final

days—Palm Sunday (Jesus entering Jerusalem), Holy Thursday (Jesus’ last supper), and Good Friday (the sadness of Jesus’ death), and Easter Sunday. These sacred days focus on Jesus’s immense love, his death on the cross to take away sins, and his

resurrection (coming back to life). Jesus’ immense love bridges the gap between humanity and God.

A Big Thank You to our fantastic SBCA Student Council members, Ms. Stephanie Olsen and Ms. Lauren Monaghan who hosted a fun Easter Egg Hunt for Grades K1 to 6th during their scheduled recess times. The eggs contained small prizes such as stickers, TAG Day passes, or homework passes for one subject. Thank you to all our dedi-

cated teachers and staff for making it another wonderful Easter at SBCA and in the Early Childhood Center! On behalf of our Principal, Dr. Helenann Civian, and all of us at South Boston Catholic Academy and at the Early Childhood Center, we hope everyone will have a Blessed and Happy Easter! New families are welcome to email our admissions team at admissions@sbcatholicadacademy.org for more info. about South Boston Catholic Academy.