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ary Skipper, currently superintendent of the suburban Somerville Public Schools, has been selected in a narrow vote to be the next superintendent of Boston’s troubled public school system. Skipper was selected in a 4-3 vote on Wednesday night, days after the city reached an agreement that avoided a state takeover of the system with nearly 50,000 students. To avoid
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June 30, 2022: Vol.10 Issue 25
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June 30, 2022
EDITORIAL Independence Day 2022: America’s Birthday. Celebrate With Pride
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ndependence Day to the hundreds of millions of Americans who love and take pride in our great country is more than just barbecues, parades, summer fun and of course, the beautiful fireworks display put on by cities, towns and rural areas all across America. It will all look and feel extra good this year since so much of it was absent in many places for the two previous years. These things are part of the tradition of course but take a back seat to the real meaning. The fact that an
upstart bunch of poorly armed patriots so determined to be free could succeed in throwing off the shackles of an oppressive and mighty military power. It was a power ruled by an arrogant and cruel British king and more than 200 years ago our predecessors showed just how much that true American grit and courage can accomplish when the cause is just. Let this coming Independence Day, this Fourth of July holiday weekend, be one of happy celebration of the most amazing nation in the history
of the world. Celebrate with family, with friends, with neighbors and everyone else that possesses that uniquely American spirit. Though our nation’s detractors will cringe at the sight, the land will be awash, from sea to shining sea in Red, White and Blue and will bring proud smiles to the faces of patriots; young and old alike. This is our party America and without hesitation, we should enjoy every last minute of it and celebrate. Don’t let anyone, any group any issue or anything spoil it.
Our wonderful country is what our Founding Fathers envisioned when, with assistance from God, they created America- a free, proud and happy nation. And it’s what so many of our men and women in uniform
fought to preserve throughout our history. Be grateful to them because they made this all possible. So, stay safe and enjoy the biggest of all summer events – America’s party. May God continue to Bless America forever.
“I love my freedom. I love my America. Forever May Old Glory Wave” - Jess Lane Adams
Parks Department hosts summer golf course concert series
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he Boston Parks and Recreation Department’s live music offerings continue in 2022 with a series of Wednesday evening summer concerts on the patios at the City of Boston’s two golf course clubhouses. Enjoy local folk and jazz artists at the George Wright Golf Course Clubhouse at 420 West Street in Hyde Park and the Wil-
Publisher
liam Devine Golf Course Clubhouse at 1 Circuit Drive in Dorchester. Held in July and August, the Golf Course Concert Series is part of the Boston Parks and Recreation Department’s year-round ParkARTS program. All shows begin at 6 p.m. Additional support is provided by the Emerald Necklace Conservancy. The George Wright Golf
John Ciccone
Course Clubhouse concerts begin July 13 with the indie-folk and rockpop of Annie Cheevers and Ryan McHugh and continue July 27 with guitar, vocal, and violin trio It’s a “J” Thing, and August 3 with Western Massachusetts-based singer-songwriter Grayson Ty. The William Devine Golf Course Clubhouse concerts begin July 20 with singer-
songwriter Daniel Gallagher and continue August 10 with folk, pop, rock, reggae, blues, and soulinfluenced singer Kaliloops, and August 17 with New England-based solo acoustic artist Jon Hollywood. All ParkARTS performances are free of charge. For more information, please visit boston.gov/ golf-concert-series http:// boston.gov/golf-concert-
series.Stay up to date with news, events, and improvements in Boston parks by signing up for our email list at bit.ly/Get-Parks-Emails http://bit.ly/Get-ParksEmails and following our social channels @bostonparksdept on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.
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Information Center The
Independence Day. Most Thank God We’re Americans SOUTH BOSTON TODAY John Ciccone
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ow! Did it come fast or what? It seems like we were just in the deep freeze of winter and now we are preparing to celebrate the ‘4th’. The Independence Day holiday is by far, one of the biggest and best times of the year to those of us who proudly consider ourselves ‘flag-wavers’. If you filter out the vitriol , the whining and the gnashing of teeth of our nation’s detractors and malcontents and the haters in Washington DC and in Hollywood who have made it clear that they will be working for those coming here illegally now and not for American citizens, most of our countrymen and women are proud to be Americans. And the Independence Day weekend gives us the chance to celebrate the fact that we live in the greatest, most unique nation the world has ever known. Yes, the weather usually cooperates and is warm and sunny and there are great outdoor activities happening all around us to make it even better. In addition to the great summer temperatures, this holiday brings with it so much more. The red, white and blue of our flag flying everywhere you look, the concerts, the parades, the fireworks and the patriotic ceremonies being held to observe the sacrifices that those who came before us and into the present day made and are still making on our behalf serve to remind us how truly fortunate we are to live here. This is a time to enjoy the cherished traditions that we as Americans have been observing for over 200 years and continue to enjoy so much. It’s also a time
Note: talk back to John Ciccone by email at jciccone@southbostontoday.com
to reinforce our commitment to never allow enemies, foreign or home grown to accomplish their goal and take away those liberties and the freedom we should all cherish. Our amazing Founding Fathers had a vision of what a great and prosperous nation should look like. They worked long and hard to put together that incredible document - the Constitution of the United States - which has guided us through all the good times and bad and still does so today whether our nation’s detractors like it or not. They sacrificed much to get our nation to where it is today. There are some who say, and even some who hope, that America’s best days are in the past. But most of us disagree. American patriots are freedom loving and rugged individualists, who are determined that, as great as our country was and is, it will be greater still in the years to come because proud Americans won’t have it any other way. Never fear, those on the Left who wield political power today and are working hard to weaken America will be gone soon and they know it. And then our country will continue on its journey to even more greatness. And yet, along with all the ceremony, pomp and circumstance that is still part of the tradition of Independence Day there are the other traditions that we can take part in and enjoy if we so choose. Why not get out and indulge in everything else this holiday has to offer. Some will travel, perhaps to a Cape Cod or a Rhode Is-
land beach. Others might decide to take a trip to the Mountains of New Hampshire or Maine. If you stay local, there are 3 miles of beautiful beaches in South Boston along with parks for baseball, softball and other sports. There are the concert and fireworks at the Esplanade as well and so much more. And yes, fireworks are an American tradition and are here to stay. Back yard gatherings with family, friends or neighbors will be happening everywhere or maybe you’d prefer to just stay at home and enjoy that much
deserved day off from work. Whatever you choose to do and however you decide to celebrate, its America’s birthday, we are Americans, and we deserve a party and we will surely have one. Let no one ruin or disrupt the celebration of our magnificent heritage and independence. And doing so with Old Glory proudly waving in the summer breeze will make it that much better and help put you in the spirit even more. At least it will for us ‘flag-wavers’; so proud to be Americans and we make no apologies for it.
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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.
-- ONE BIG THING to put on your radar this morning: Senate President Karen Spilka and other top Senate Democrats will detail a new early education investment bill at 1 p.m. with one month until the end of formal sessions. It’s the last day of June, so let me be the first to wish you a Happy Fiscal New Year’s Eve! But before you pop the champagne, you should know that fiscal 2023 will dawn without an annual state budget in place, and it’s extremely likely that the Legislature will roll into the Fourth of July without a deal in place for Gov. Charlie Baker to review over the three-day weekend. Massachusetts is one of just seven states yet to finalize an annual budget for fiscal 2023, and in one of those states (Michigan) the new
budget year doesn’t start until Oct. 1, according to the National Association of State Budget Officers. The Legislatures in Alaska and Missouri have sent budget bills to their governors’ desks, and in California and New Jersey deals have been reached and are expected to be finalized between the Legislature and governor before the end of the week. That leaves Massachusetts and Pennsylvania where talks are ongoing. The House and Senate could always strike a deal today and vote on Friday, but it’s more likely at this point that talks will continue through to next week with an interim budget already in place to keep the bureaucracy running through the end of July. This is familiar territory for Massachusetts lawmakers, but it didn’t stop MassGOP Chairman
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Highlights of the bill include: • $2,812,457,157 for projects on the interstate and non-interstate federal highway system; • $1,270,000,000 for non-federally aided roadway and bridge projects and for the nonparticipating portion of federally aided projects; • $85,000,000 for pavement and surface conditions on non-federally aided roadways; • $25,000,000 for pavement and surface conditions on municipal roadways; • $20,000,000 for grants to municipalities under the Complete Streets Funding Program; • $82,000,000 for rail improvements; • $1,375,000,000 for sustainable transit system modernization and rail improvements; • $10,000,000 for a public realm
would be collected in fiscal 2023, giving budget negotiators leeway to bulk up a final spending package. It also means there will be ample money to cover whatever package of tax cuts lawmakers come up with, which could be out as soon as today. The Joint Committee on Revenue gave itself a deadline.
Jim Lyons from trying to fundraise off the Democrats’ delinquency. “That means any sort of relief coming back to taxpayers beleaguered by roaring inflation and out-of-control fuel costs remains in limbo. They may operate with zero sense of urgency, but you do not,” Lyons wrote in an email appeal for money before the end of the fundraising quarter. Speaking of relief, one highranking Democrat said that negotiations over a forthcoming tax relief package are not connected to the budget, where the Massachusetts Taxpayers Foundation is forecasting a significant revenue markup. SHNS’s Michael P. Norton reported this week that MTF projects the state will collect $3 billion or more in taxes in fiscal 2022 than either the House or Senate budgets assumed
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improvement program; • $3,500,000,000 for projects funded with discretionary federal grant funds; • $25,501,000 for the Mobility Assistance Program; and • $200,000,000 for projects that reduce emissions such as public alternative fueling stations and electric vehicle charging infrastructure, replacement of high-emissions vehicles,
electric vehicles for hire and carsharing, electric school buses, electric short-haul freight, and delivery trucks. Additionally, the bill: • Requires MassDOT, in consultation with the Comptroller, to develop and operate a publicly accessible and searchable database to report on this bill’s expenditures and any project receiving federal funding from the federal Infrastructure and Investment in Jobs Act of 2021; and • Establishes a commission to review and receive testimony concerning public entities, including those that may be created by statute in the future, with the ability to design, permit, construct, operate and maintain passenger rail service that meets the standards of the Final Alternatives in the East-West Passenger Rail Study Final Report issued by MassDOT in 2021. “An Act relative to Massachusetts’s transportation resources and climate” (H.4897) passed the House of Representatives 155-0. It now goes to the Senate for their consideration.
REP. BIELE HELPS PASS $10.9 BILLION TRANSPORTATION AND INFRASTRUCTURE BILL
tate Representative David Biele joined his colleagues in the Massachusetts House of Representatives in passing a transportation and infrastructure bill authorizing $10.9 billion for projects, including $400 million for the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) to address ongoing safety concerns identified by the Federal Transit Administration’s Safety Management Inspection and $250 million for the East-West passenger rail project. “This legislation authorizes crucial investments in roads, bridges, and infrastructure,” said Rep. Biele. “Equally important, this legislation provides resources to support our transportation system while addressing concerns identified at the MBTA.”
June 30, 2022
-- A one-woman show for governor. But who’s to blame? First it was Ben Downing, a former state senator. Then Harvard professor Danielle Allen. The latest to exit the race for governor was sitting state Sen. Sonia ChangDiaz, who concluded 10 weeks before the primary that her path to the Democratic nomination effectively had been blocked. Though it may be a stretch to call all of them outsiders, they were certainly running from outside the established political order. From the moment Attorney General Maura Healey entered the race earlier this year as the candidate with the most name recognition and biggest bank account she has been the woman
June 30, 2022
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ALLISON BAKER RECEIVES 2022 COMMONWEALTH HEROINE AWARD
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Representative David Biele for her dedication and efforts in bettering the lives of children and families throughout South Boston. In her professional capacity, Allison serves as program leader for the South Boston Boys & Girls Club and the Tierney Learning Center and works as a paraprofessional at Perkins Elementary School for students with autism. For the past 13 years, Allison has also volunteered as a coach for the Gate of Heaven CYO youth basketball, mentoring countless local children and encouraging youth development through sports and athletics. Allison also recently founded and launched Kickoff for Kids, a successful nonprofit organization that has generated more than $40,000 to support neigh-
borhood children and aid families over the holidays. “I’m very honored to be recognized as a Commonwealth Heroine,” said Allison Baker. “Thank you to Representative David Biele for his nomination. I could never do what I do without the help of the South Boston community.” “I was honored to nominate Allison Baker as a Commonwealth Heroine in recognition of her incredible contributions to the South Boston community,” said Rep. Biele. “Allison puts in a tremendous amount of time to enrich the lives of children and families in South Boston. She continually makes a difference for the community whether in the classroom or on the field and I’m grateful
for her constant efforts in support of our neighbors.” Allison was honored as a Commonwealth Heroine among more than a hundred other Massachusetts women for their civic leadership and service that improves lives in their communities.
South Boston NDC Receives Lowe’s Hometowns Grant
to attract pollinators,” Brown said. “We are excited to share our final project with the neighborhood.” About South Boston NDC: South Boston NDC addresses the displacement of low- and moderate-income South Boston residents with the creation and preservation of affordable housing. The organization also provides
economic development through its fiscal management of the South Boston Chamber of Commerce, and quality-of-life programming through its creation of green space and community gardens, as well as access to fresh produce and nutrition information through its management of the South Boston Farmers Market.
ast week, South Boston resident Allison Baker was recognized as a Commonwealth Heroine by the Massachusetts Commission on the Status of Women. The Commonwealth Heroine Award is presented to women who have a significant positive influence on their communities. They improve the lives of others, making the most of their time, ability, and passion. The contributions of these women have strengthened every community because they continuously work to make it better without seeking recognition or appreciation. The Commonwealth Heroine Awards provide the opportunity to acknowledge and honor these outstanding individuals. Allison was nominated by State
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outh Boston Neighborhood Development Corporation has been selected as a Lowe’s Hometowns grant recipient! South Boston NDC will create a public pocket park and community garden on the lot it owns at the corner of D Street and West Seventh Street, an area of the neighborhood that lacks open space and trees. “We are thrilled to be selected as one of Lowe’s 100 projects for 2022,” said South Boston NDC Executive Director Donna Brown. “Our goal is to transform this lot into an asset that will provide an environmental improvement for the neighborhood and gardening access to low-income residents.” This year’s 100 selected projects kick off Lowe’s five-year, $100 million commitment to the communities it serves. With projects spanning 40 states and Washington, D.C., Lowe’s will help restore and revitalize spaces that serve as the hubs and heartbeats of communities, including neighborhood housing, parks, community centers, and much more.
“We’re excited to continue improving hometowns across the country by building on our longstanding commitment to serving the communities where we live and work,” said Marvin Ellison, Lowe’s chairman and CEO. “With support from our associates, neighbors, and partners, Lowe’s Hometowns will address urgent needs in communities, from revitalizing vibrant green spaces to supporting first responders and local heroes, as we strive to make hometowns better for all, including those in real need.” South Boston NDC intends to grade the site and fence the lot, as well as add cedar garden planters for the community gardeners and stone dust paths for ADA accessible access, and plant two deciduous trees and mixed borders of native perennials and shrubs. This park is part of South Boston NDC’s Climate Action Initiative to become more sustainable and reduce overall environmental impact. “This new park will provide open space, mitigate heat island effect, and provide native plantings
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SOUTHBOSTONTODAY • www.southbostontoday.com
June 30, 2022
Independence Forever! South Boston Today Guest Contributor Robert J. Allison, Historian Exemplar
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ohn Adams thought that Independence Day would be celebrated “as the Day of Deliverance,” with “solemn Acts of Devotion to God Almighty” as well as “Pomp and Parade, with Shows, Games, Sports, Guns, Bells, Bonfires and Illuminations from one End of this Continent to the other from this Time forward forever more.” Adams wrote this to his wife Abigail on July 3, 1776. He predicted that “The Second Day of July 1776 will be the most memorable Epochal, in the History of America.” Adams was wrong about the date, but not about the way we celebrate Independence Day - parades and fireworks, sporting events, games, “Guns, Bells, Bonfires”, as well as solemn acts of devotion. Adams saw the importance of the date and the many ways Americans would celebrate. In the early 1990s, I met with a group of students from the Czech Republic, who arrived for a tour of the United States on July 3. They were worried when they learned that they would arrive the day before our great patriotic holiday. Growing up under a Communist regime, they learned to dread the forced patriotic devotion and crashing boredom of their country’s anniversary days. Our Fourth of July astonished them. There were appropriate markers of the day’s historical importance, and reminders of the sacrifices made to sustain independence. But these were not the grim parades of military might. What struck them most was that people they saw were having a good time. Independence is something to celebrate. It is what allows us still to enjoy July 4, and the other days of the year. Adams knew this, when he wrote to Abigail on July 3, 1776. He knew that achieving independence would not be easy. “I am well aware of the Toil and Blood and Treasure, that it will cost us to maintain this Declaration, and support and defend these States. —yet through all the Gloom I can see the Rays of ravishing light and Glory. I can see that
the End is more than worth all the Means. And that Posterity will triumph in that Days Transaction, even although we should rue it, which I trust in God We shall not.” It would be a sacrifice his generation would make for those to come. Why July 2? We know that July 4 is the great anniversary day. On July 2, Congress had voted to declare Independence; on July 4, Congress adopted the formal Declaration of Independence. For Adams, the fact was more important than the statement. On the afternoon of July 4, after Congress adopted the Declaration, which explained why it had declared the United States to be independent, it voted to have the Declaration printed and circulated throughout the American states. John Dunlap, a Philadelphia printer, received the draft—not the familiar parchment copy which reposes in the National Archives, but a simple draft of Congress’s Declaration. He set the text in type, and at the top, in bold letters, three lines stand out:” IN CONGRESS. July 4, 1776” “DECLARATION,” and “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.” This document, Dunlap’s printed version, gives us an anniversary date—July 4—and a name for the new country: The United States of America. It was meant to be read aloud, and publicly proclaimed throughout the land. On July 9, it reached New York, where Washington had it read to his army at the tip of Manhattan Island; his troops hearing the bold declaration could see in the distance British and German soldiers disembarking on Staten Island, the largest military force the British, up to that point, had ever sent abroad, coming to suppress their rebellion. After hearing Independence proclaimed, the soldiers and New York citizens tore down a statue of George III, melting it down to make bullets. The Declaration reached Boston on Thursday, July 18. Thomas Crafts read it from the Old State House balcony. As he concluded, the crowd cheered, “God Save our American States,” gave three cheers, church bells rang, guns fired, “and
every face appeared joyful,” Abigail Adams reported. Then the crowd took the royal coat of arms down from every public building and burned them in the middle of King Street. “Thus, ends royal Authority in this State,” Abigail wrote, “and all the people shall say Amen.” Amen—but what was next? After forcing the British out of Boston, and declaring Independence, the Americans had a tough year. The British took New York easily, and would hold it for the next seven years. By the end of the following summer the British would also occupy Philadelphia. The British would not return to the Boston area, which had been heavily fortified during the siege. “I think of nothing but fortifying Boston Harbor,” John wrote to Abigail in March, just a few weeks after the British had evacuated Boston. “I want more Cannon than are to be had,” and he wanted the harbor islands fortified. The British destroyed the fort on Castle Island on their way out of Boston. Congress rejected Massachusetts’ request for aid in rebuilding the Castle William, but Abigail reported that six hundred men met every morning to rebuild it. The war shifted out of Boston. But Massachusetts still sent men to
the war—in fact, a third of the men who served in the Continental Army came from Massachusetts. Fortifying Castle Island seemed less pressing until 1798, when France went to war against the United States. France was at war with England in the 1790s, and wanted the United States—recipients of French aid during the Revolution— to join in. The United States proclaimed neutrality, and France began to capture American merchant ships. President Adams sent diplomats to France, who were told bluntly that before any negotiations could begin, the Americans would have to bribe a series of French bureaucrats. President Adams vowed that he would never send another diplomat to France, unless the French would receive him as the emissary of an independent people. In 1776, John Adams had thought of nothing but fortifying the harbor islands against the British; now, as President, he thought of nothing but fortifying the entire coast. Castle William, which had languished since the men of Boston rebuilt it twenty years earlier, now was fortified again against a new enemy. President Adams gave the fortification a new name, Fort Independence.
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SOUTHBOSTONTODAY • www.southbostontoday.com
Wishing You and Your Family a Safe and Happy
4th
Happy 4th of July
of July as We Proudly Celebrate our Nation’s Freedom!
DAVIDBIELE STATE REPRESENTATIVE
4th Suffolk District
Nick Collins State Senator
(Paid for by the Committee to Elect David Biele)
HAPPY FOURTH OF JULY! Wishing everyone a safe, happy and healthy holiday weekend. From my family to yoursHappy 4th of July! -City Councilor At Large Michael F. Flaherty
Happy Independence Day! We pay tribute to those who fought for our freedom and future. Boston City Council President Ed Flynn & Family
Paid for by the Committee to Elect Michael F. Flaherty P.O. Box 122 02124
(Paid for and authorized by the Friends of Ed Flynn Committee)
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SOUTHBOSTONTODAY • www.southbostontoday.com
The
Wine Guy
I
We’re Really Here
say this every year, because sadly, it’s true-the older we get, the faster the time goes by. Be that as it may, here are some suggestions that might help you forget that…… I’d like to start off with something a little different- Sparkling wine in a 4-pack of cans. Francis Coppola Sofia Mini Blanc de Blancs, California, ($17.99) is tasty, flexible and convenient. Replete with flavors of Pear, Melon, and Honey, a very reasonable “summer heat” ABV of 11.5% and a pleasant effervescence, you can chill these up quickly and spread them out over an afternoon/ evening of picnic and grilled fare, especially, seafood and grilled white meats. While Sparkling wine has been around forever, the canned ver-
sion is new- and growing. Look for your favorite brands of other white/ sparkling wines, like Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio and even Pink Moscato in the “Canned Section”. If you read this column with any regularity, you’ll know that one of my favorite wine regions in California is Monterey County and one of its best sub-regions is the Santa Lucia Highlands. So, when I see a wine from this area under $25.00, I get curious and in the case of Mer Soleil Santa Lucia Highlands Reserve Chardonnay, 2020, ($24.99), I’m glad I did. My friend Charlie Wagner, the Winemaker here for many years, describes it this way: “this wine features bright scents of lemon crumb bars and honeydew, with a hint of apricot, toasted oak, and the evocative trace of a freshly struck match. Entry on the palate is round and robust, lending a richness to the fruit. At the same time, a zing of acidity hints at the sides of the tongue, maintaining the liveliness of citrus and melon. This dance of vibrancy and intensity carries over to the finish, as honeydew and apricot trail off in silky smoothness.”. This is definitely one to look for and when you find it, don’t be shy about picking up more than one. One label that I haven’t written about in awhile is Grgich Hills. Their Estate Sauvignon Blanc, Napa, California, 2018, ($34.99) is really special. To begin with, it’s extremely versatile where food pairings are concerned. Try it with anything from Fish Tacos to Spicy
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Asian Noodles and you won’t be disappointed. The Connoisseur’s Guide says “Grgich Hills Fumé Blancs are always emphatically grassy and this one goes right to the limits, but its ongoing herbaceousness is tempered by deep and continuous fruit, and the combination here is striking. The wine is at once lively and moderately full-bodied with the structure to keep and grow for a good many years, and, when all is said and done, this latest edition is as long on value as it is on character and complexity.”. When dessert arrives, you could do worse than Chateau Miselle Sauternes, Bordeaux, France, ($24.99). A beautiful golden yellow color invites you to enjoy the delicate and complex bouquet of crystallized apricots, raisins and quince aromas. This Sauternes is flavorful and intense; its fruity palate is clearly defined and full-bodied. You might want to have an espresso with this one, not only to offset the peach and honey notes, but to mitigate the 13%
June 30, 2022
ABV. In France, they often finish a summer meal with a Salade des Fruits and they will spoon on a bit of this wine to liven it up a bit; leave it to the French! Pewsey Vale Riesling, Eden Valley, Australia, ($15.99). Because of their position in the Southern Hemisphere, the more than 60 recognized Australian wine regions benefit from generous sunshine, low humidity and little rainfall throughout the year. Their bountiful harvests typically take place six months before harvests in the Northern Hemisphere. These factors make this riesling distinctively different from its German cousins. Also, because it is so different, the range of food you can serve it with is longer than most. Pasta dishes with White Sauce, Asian Fusion dishes, Braised Shark and Lamb Chops with a honey/soy sauce/lemon glaze will all be better with this wine. We hope you and your family and friends have a happy and safe 4th of July!
June 30, 2022
Virtual Public Meeting
Seaport Square: Notice of Project Change Monday, July 11 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM Project Proponent:
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SOUTHBOSTONTODAY • www.southbostontoday.com
Zoom Link: bit.ly/3mSFa6I Toll Free: (833) 568 - 8864 Meeting ID: 161 201 2211
Virtual Public Meeting
17 Farnsworth Street Tuesday, July 19 6:00 PM- 7:30 PM Project Proponent:
WS Development
BentallGreenOak
Project Description:
Project Description:
The BPDA is hosting a Public Meeting for the Seaport Square project located in the South Boston Waterfront. The purpose of the meeting is to discuss the Notice of Project Change that was filed for this project. The meeting will include a presentation followed by Q&A and comments from the public. The proposed NPC includes changes to the use and programming of several buildings, the elimination of a proposed building, and the expansion of open space. The information at this meeting is crucial to you as a Boston resident. Interpreting services are available to communicate the information at these meetings. If you require translation services, please contact nick.carter@boston.gov. The meeting is scheduled for 7/11/2022. Please request interpreting services no later than 5 days before the meeting date. At this time, the BPDA is continuing to host public meetings in a virtual setting for the health, safety, and accessibility of Boston residents. For more information, visit bostonplans.org. mail to: Nick Carter Boston Planning & Development Agency One City Hall Square, 9th Floor Boston, MA 02201 phone: 617.918.5303 email: nick.carter@boston.gov
Close of Comment Period: 7/15/2022
BostonPlans.org
Zoom Link: bit.ly/3QoQ5m8 Toll Free: (833) 568 - 8864 Meeting ID: 160 823 8454
The Project proposes to replace the existing, parking garage with a life science building. 作为波士顿居民和利益相关者，本会议的信息对您来说是至关重要的。可以提供翻译服务以 传达本会议的内容，您无需承担任何额外费用。如果您需要翻译服务，请通过以下方式进行 联系: (nick.carter@boston.gov) (617-918-5303) 会议定于 2022 年 07月 19日，请在会议 前5天内申请口译服务. 作為波士頓居民和利益相關者，本會議的信息對您來說是至關重要的。可以提供翻譯服務以 傳達本會議的內容，您無需承擔任何額外費用。如果您需要翻譯服務，請通過以下方式進行 聯繫: (nick.carter@boston.gov) (617-918-5303) 會議定於2022年07月19日，請在會議前 5天内申請口譯服務。 mail to: Nick Carter Boston Planning & Development Agency One City Hall Square, 9th Floor Boston, MA 02201 phone: 617.918.5303 email: nick.carter@boston.gov
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Close of Comment Period: 7/29/2022
BostonPlans.org
Teresa Polhemus, Executive Director/Secretary
@BostonPlans
Teresa Polhemus, Executive Director/Secretary
Fireworks, Once A Welcomed Entertainment Has Become A Public Hazard
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ot only can fireworks be stressful on dogs during the 4th – they can also lead to dogs getting lost and separated from their pet parents. “Dogs commonly become anxious or fearful around loud and unpredictable noises – which would certainly include fireworks that take place on, and around, the 4th of July,” said Dr. Sarah Nold, staff veterinarian at Trupanion – a leader in medical insurance for pets. In fact, Trupanion receives more anxietyrelated claims (on average 45% more) in July than any other month of the year. Dr. Nold suggests these three things to consider to help your pet during the 4th of July firework celebrations. 1) Make sure your dog has access to a familiar environment – whether
you’re at home with them or not – where they will feel most secure. This could include: - their kennel - your bedroom - a gated-off area where your dog spends a lot of their time 2) You can also leave the television or radio on, or just turn on a fan in the room to help sound-sensitive pets get through the evening. 3) Body wraps, pheromone diffusers and calming collars may help some dogs. In severely anxious dogs, anxiety medication could be necessary. Talk to your veterinarian to determine what treatment, or often combination of treatments, are best for your dog. Additional tips to consider: Beat the Heat: If your 4th of July plans involve being outdoors with
your dog, make sure your pet has access to shade and plenty of water throughout the day. During the month of July in past years, Trupanion has paid out more than $16,000 in dehydration claims alone. Barbecue Buster: Nothing says the 4th like firing up the grill, but avoid the temptation of feeding your dog table scraps which can cause a serious stomach ache. Beware of bones and
corn-on-the-cob as well to avoid any unexpected trips to the veterinarian. Keep identification on your pet at all times: Unfortunately, many pets get lost during the first week in July, especially on July 4. Even if you follow all of these tips, your stressed pet may find a way to get out of the house. Always keep an ID on your pet with updated information.
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SOUTHBOSTONTODAY • www.southbostontoday.com
June 30, 2022
The “Pinning” Of An Extraordinary South Boston Military Man At Historic Dorchester Heights
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orchester Heights was the chosen setting of the pinning of South Boston resident Brigadier General Michael Cornell. Cornell is a career intelligence officer and cyber space professional with conventional and special operations experience at the tactical, operational, and strategic levels. Prior to his promotion to General, Cornell was the chief of staff, 102nd Intelligence Wing, where he assisted the Wing Commander in organizing, training and equipping over 800 personnel in cyber, intelligence, and expeditionary communications missions in cooperation with state and federal partners. The General received his com-
mission in 1992 as a distinguished graduate of ASROTC at the University of Connecticut, where he finished first in his class. He earned his jump wings at the US Army Airborne School in 1991. His expeditionary experience includes deployment and commands in Korea, the Persian Gulf, and Afghanistan. On the morning of September 11, 2001, he participated in NORAD’s scramble of the first military aircraft to the World Trade Center and mobilized for operation Noble Eagle. After receiving the Bachelor of Arts degree at the University of Connecticut, he expanded his education through the various courses
and programs offered by the military service, and, along the way, received his Juris Doctor at the University of Connecticut School of Law. Among his many awards are the Legion of Merit, the Meritorious Service Medal with Four Oakleaf Clusters, Joint Service Commendation Medal, the Air Force’s Achievement and Combat Action Metals and the Outstanding Unit Award with “V” device and Nine Oakleaf Clusters. Needless to say, he is a very accomplished military man. General Cornell dedicated his pinning ceremony to his late father, Sergeant Larry Cornell United States Air Force. The pinning of
General Cornell was done by his daughters Colette and Genevieve and supervised by Rachel Cornell, mom and wife. The General spoke of his family and his appreciation of their support throughout his career. He also spoke of his military family, many of whom were present to share in the pinning of the General. The General spoke of community, patriotism, giving back and giving a special shout out to South Boston High School JROTC young men and women. He is a current member of the Fitzgerald VFW Post561. Congratulations Brigadier General Michael L. Cornell. “Aim High…Fly-Fight-Win.”
June 30, 2022
SOUTHBOSTONTODAY • www.southbostontoday.com
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SOUTHBOSTONTODAY • www.southbostontoday.com
June 30, 2022
Right the ship continued from front page
intendent of high schools, where she oversaw 34 schools, and as head of TechBoston Academy. “I am honored and humbled to have been selected to lead the district that raised me as an educator and solidified my passion for making a difference in the lives of students,” Skipper said in a statement. “This is a pivotal time in Boston and BPS’ history, and nothing less than our student’s and our city’s future is at stake. I look forward to working with our families, educators, community leaders and our students to ensure every BPS student has the opportunity for a great education that sets them up for success in school and in life.” The vote took place during a public meeting at which School Committee members discussed the qualifications of two finalists for the Superintendent position. Last week, BPS hosted numerous public interviews with the two candidates with various stakeholder groups, including students, families, educators, and community partners, wrapping up a search process that began in March under
the guidance of a nine-member Search Committee. “Tonight’s decision by the School Committee is a huge step forward for the district,” Robinson said in a statement. “On behalf of the School Committee, congratulations to Mary Skipper on becoming Boston’s next superintendent. Under her leadership we will continue prioritizing the needs of our students so that they can receive the support and quality education necessary to excel inside the classroom. I would also like to thank Dr. Tommy Welch for his continued commitment to BPS, our students and our city.” Wednesday’s Boston School Committee vote came two days after a deal between the district and Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to make improvements in several key areas. Under the seven-page deal, Boston promises to improve areas such as school security, special education services, bus transportation and English-language learning. During this leadership transition,
Skipper will work closely with Dr. Drew Echelson, who will serve as Acting Superintendent following the June 30 departure of Dr. Brenda Cassellius. Dr. Echelson will lead ongoing district initiatives, including daily operations and the implementation of the Systemic Improvement Plan negotiated with DESE, until Superintendent Skipper begins her tenure. Ms. Skipper holds a Bachelor’s in English and Latin from Tufts University. In addition, she earned a Master’s in Education Policy from Harvard and a Master’s in Education Leadership from Columbia Teachers College. Skipper must formally accept the offer for the BPS position in order to begin the process of negotiating the conditions of her contract with the School Committee, including salary, benefits and starting date with BPS. Skipper will join Boston Mayor Michelle Wu and Boston School Committee Chair Jeri Robinson for a news conference that is scheduled for 9 a.m. Thursday at TechBoston Academy.
Independence continued from page 6
will return the salute to American independence and the men and women who have made it possible. John Adams had been invited to attend the celebrations in Washington on July 4, 1826. (But at the age of ninety was too feeble to leave his home in Quincy). He had also declined an invitation to speak at the local celebration in Quincy. The Quincy organizers asked if Adams would like them to read a statement
at their commemoration. Knowing this might be his last public words, Adams wanted them to count. He and his generation had achieved independence; the next generations would have to defend it. He gave his statement: “Independence Forever!” They waited. Would he like to add more? “Not a word.” Adams could hear the celebrations
on July 4, 1826—the “Pomp and Parade, with Shows, Games, Sports, Guns, Bells” he had predicted fifty years earlier. We can still hear them, and see the fireworks and illuminations. We also know what has made this celebration possible, from one end of the continent to the other. Robert J. Allison is President of the South Boston Historical Society and Chair of the History Department at Suffolk University.
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-- GOP donor could play role in immigrant license repeal campaign The Republican effort to repeal a new law authorizing undocumented immigrants to obtain driver’s licenses may be getting a boost in horsepower from a wealthy donor and onetime Congressional candidate whose support could help organizers overcome the odds to qualify for the ballot. The Globe’s Samantha J. Gross reports that 1A Auto owner Rick
Green, who has close ties to MassGOP Chairman Jim Lyons and gubernatorial candidate Geoff Diehl, will be “helping to support” the repeal campaign. While it’s unclear if that support will translate to a significant financial contribution, money would go a long way to helping the campaign gather the 40,120 signatures required by Aug. 24. Diehl held a campaign event outside the Brockton RMV on
Wednesday to tout his support for repealing the newly passed law, which is an effort he helped get off the ground by recruiting organizers to put a question on the November ballot. Unwilling to totally cede this ground to Diehl, his Republican rival for the nomination Chris Doughty announced Wednesday that he and his running mate Kate Campanale would be collecting signatures for the referendum while out door knocking for their own campaigns.
the takeover and an “underperforming” designation, the city agreed to make a series of improvements. “In this moment of challenge and opportunity, Mary is uniquely prepared to drive forward the systemic reforms and immediate results our students deserve,” Mayor Michelle Wu said. “This is a pivotal time in Boston and BPS’ history, and nothing less than our student’s and our city’s future is at stake,” Skipper said in a statement. “I look forward to working with our families, educators, community leaders and our students to ensure every BPS student has the opportunity for a great education that sets them up for success in school and in life.” Skipper, a Dorchester resident and mother of three, joined Somerville Public Schools as superintendent in 2015 after a career at Boston Public Schools that included time as the Network Superintendent of High Schools. Before taking over in Somerville seven years ago, Skipper served in Boston as network super-
That same year, the USS CONSTITUTION had its first fight, against the French in the West Indies. Built in the North End in the 1790s, the CONSTITUTION is the oldest commissioned warship still afloat in the world. At noon on July 4, if you venture out to Castle Island, you will see the ship fire a salute to the flag on Fort Independence, and gunners on Castle Island
to beat, and nothing has been able to budge her from that spot. The Globe’s Emma Platoff reports on the systemic barriers that exist in Massachusetts to limit competition from “outsider” candidates, but to solely blame the system would also be to simplistically dismiss what candidates like Deval Patrick and Elizabeth Warren were able to do and the strengths Healey, once considered an outsider, has brought to the campaign.
June 30, 2022
SOUTHBOSTONTODAY • www.southbostontoday.com
I Was Just Thinking…
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by Kevin Devlin
ccording to a Reuters/Ipsos opinion poll completed recently, President Joe Biden’s public approval rating fell for a fourth straight week to thirtysix percent. Thirty-four percent of
Americans say the economy is the most important issue currently facing the United States, while only eighteen percent of Americans think the country is headed in the right direction. That’s not good for him, his party, or their chances of surviving a red wave in the midterm elections. The worst inflation in over forty years. Ridiculously high gas and food prices. Baby formula shortages. Waves of illegals waltzing across the border and being flown to destinations unknown by our so-called transparent government. An unchecked crime wave which continues to destroy our cities wherein victims are ignored, and criminals given free passes. Like Michelle McKelley in New York, who after being arrested for the one hundredth time, was released the next day free of bail under the state’s soft-on-crime criminal justice
reforms. Do the crime. Don’t worry about doing any time. Criminals laughing all the way back home. A double standard of justice in which protestors on the Left who burn buildings and create chaos like they did in Portland, Oregon, don’t suffer the consequences of their criminal actions, while protestors on the right who trespassed on the Capital are locked away in solitary confinement. And their constitutional (fifth, sixth, seventh and eighth amendments of the United States Constitution) rights trampled upon especially being denied the right of a speedy trial (sixth amendment). But times are changing, and voters are switching their allegiances. Analysis of voter registration data by the Associated Press found that over a million voters have shifted to the Republican Party during the past year, including tens of thousands of swing voters. This shift to the GOP is happening throughout the country. These voters can no longer sup-
13 port the Democratic Party’s policies. Why? It’s simple. They’ve joined millions of other Americans who believe Biden and the Democrats are out of touch with the American people and see Biden as a man who is not in control of himself nor our country. Americans don’t want progressive socialism because we know based on history that socialism doesn’t work. We want less, not more government. We need to feel protected by law enforcement and don’t want to defund the police. We deserve a fair judicial system that protects all Americans equally. We desire a secure border and a comprehensive immigration policy that allows for legal immigration and deters illegal immigration. We want our Democracy to work for the benefit of the people. And not for the personal aggrandizement of our political leaders who dismiss us with disdain as mere fodder.
What Happened to the 56 men who signed the Declaration of Independence?
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ave you ever wondered what happened to the 56 men who signed the Declaration of Independence? -5 signers were captured by the British as traitors and tortured before they died. -12 had their homes ransacked and burned -2 lost their sons serving in the Revolutionary Army/another had 2 sons captured. -9 of the 56 fought and died from wounds or from hardships from the Revolutionary War They signed and they pledged their lives and their fortunes and their sacred honor. What kind of men were they? 24 were lawyers and jurists, 11 were merchants. 9 were farmers and large plantation owners; men of means, well educated. But they signed the Declaration of Independence knowing full well that the penalty would be death if they were captured. Carter Braxton of Virginia, a wealthy planter and trader, saw his ships swept from the seas by the British Navy. He sold his property and
land to pay his debts and died in rags. Thomas McKeam was so hounded by the British that he was forced to move his family almost constantly. He served in Congress without pay and his family was kept in hiding. His possessions were taken from him, and poverty was his reward. Vandals or soldiers looted the properties of Dillery, Hall, Clymer, Walton, Gwynett, Heyward, Rut-
tledge and Middleton. At the Battle of Yorktown, Thomas Nelson Jr. noted that the British general Cornwallis had taken over the Nelson home for his headquarters. He quietly urged General George Washington to open fire. The home was destroyed and Nelson died bankrupt. Francis Lewis had his home and propertied destroyed. The enemy jailed his wife and she died a few months later. John Hart was driven from his
wife’s bedside as she was dying. Their 13 children fled for their lives. His fields and his gristmill were laid to waste. For more than a year he lived in forests and caves, returning home to find his wife dead and his children vanished. So, take a few minutes while enjoying your 4th of July Holiday and quietly thank these Patriots. It’s not much to ask for the price they paid. Remember: Freedom is Never Free
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South Boston Catholic Academy News
Summer Camp Fun Has Begun!
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ummer is here and the students at South Boston Catholic Academy have started to enjoy some summertime fun. The students in the K0 and K1 Camp have been enjoying spending time together playing outdoor games, making arts and crafts projects, and taking part in
our Science Summer Camp Program in which they are learning about the amazon life under the sea with its many different types of fish, especially sharks, as well as all about how plants grow. They are also learning how much fun going camping can be. We are all looking forward to
more fun-filled weekly summertime themed activities to come. The students in Grades K2 and Up Camp have been busy visiting and exploring the beaches and parks, and of course have enjoyed going on picnics to Castle Island. They too are taking part in our Science Summer Camp Program and have worked on many science experiments and activities, and they love making different arts and crafts projects, also. They
June 30, 2022
just finished making their one of a kind tie dye shirts and are looking forward to working on more crafts, experiments and going on more fun adventures this summer. We are all looking forward to this coming 4th of July weekend and wish everyone a Safe and Happy 4th of July! New families are welcome to email our admissions team at: admissions@sbcatholicacademy.org for more info. about South Boston Catholic Academy.
June 30, 2022
Sr Babe Ruth Update
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he South Boston Sr Babe Ruth team was back in action on Tuesday June 21st for a rivalry match with Dorchester at Moakley Park. This one started out as a classic pitchers duel as Southie starting pitcher Jerry O’Neil and the Dorchester hurler went pitch for pitch as the game stayed scoreless through the first four innings. In the top of the 5th inning Dorchester would take a 1-0 on a run scoring single however Southie answered right back in the bottom half of the inning as a James Buzzell single brought Andy Nova hole to tie the game 1-1. Dorchester then took advantage of several Southie fielding miscues in the top of the 6th inning and were able to plate 4 runs to take a 5-1 lead. The Dorchester closer entered the game and shut down the South Boston bats the rest of the way to earn the victory. Jerry O’Neil was the tough luck loser on the mound allowing only 1 earned run while striking out 10 batters. Joe Hamilton, Nova, and Finbar Kyne also added hits in the loss. The next night Southie was back at home to face Norwood. After 2 scoreless innings, Southie and Norwood traded 3 run innings in the 3rd to leave things tied. Norwood was then able to string some hits together in the top of the 4th and along with some sloppy defense by Southie, Norwood pulled ahead
SOUTHBOSTONTODAY • www.southbostontoday.com
7-3. South Boston got one run back in the 4th inning on an Andy Nova sac fly and then played 2 more runs in the bottom of the 5th after run scoring singles by Jerry O’Neil and James Buzzell made It a 7-6 ballgame. In the bottom of the 7th inning with their backs against the wall, lead off hitter Joe Hamilton drew a walk before a steal and a passed ball moved him over to third base. Jake Harrison then came to the plate and drove in Hamilton to tie the game at 7-7 as Southie came all the way back to earn a point. Hamilton, Harrison and Bobby Delaney each had multi hit games while O’Neil and Buzzell each had a hit apiece. In Southie’s last game before the July 4th break, the Wollaston Black team was next to visit Moakley Park. South Boston would take an early 3-0 lead in the bottom of the first inning as James Buzzell and Lydon McGarrell each drove in a run and Buzzell came around to score following a dropped 3rd strike to Evan Markos. Things would stay that way until balls off the bats of Buzzy and McGarrell brought in two more runs in the last half of the 3rd inning to make It 5-0 Southie. Wollaston would make things interesting as they so often do with single runs in the 4th and 6th innings before plating 2 more in the 7th to make It a 6-4 ballgame. However, with two outs and the tying runs on base, Southie starter Bobby Delaney put out the flames to earn the completely game win (6 K’s). Bobby improved to 3-0 on the season. After the break, the boys hit the road for games under the lights at Wollaston on July 7th and Dorchester July 8th. The team returns home on July 11th to host Wollaston Blue.
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June 30, 2022
This week, Danny shared his thoughts on the Colorado Avalanche winning the Stanley Cup:
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ongratulations to the Colorado Avalanche. The Avs hoisted the Stanley Cup on Sunday night in Tampa Bay after beating the Lightning in Game 6 of the Cup Final. Have I ever told you how much I love the Stanley Cup? Those who follow me understand that’s sarcasm. Of course, I’ve told you. I obsess over it. It’s not healthy. But it is what it is. I [expletive] love the Stanley Cup. Every year around this time, I watch a team celebrate on the ice and hoist the greatest trophy in sports, and it keeps me up at night knowing that I’ll never be able to hoist it myself. Though, maybe I shouldn’t say “never” just yet. There are still a few current NHL players who I know that might let me hoist it if they win it. But two things need to happen. One, they need to actually win it. And two, they need to invite me to their Cup party when they get a day with it after it’s won. The odds aren’t great, but a man can dream, can’t he? The next best thing would be for the Boston Bruins to win the Stanley Cup again soon. I really can’t believe it’s been over
10 years since the 2011 Bruins hoisted it after a Game 7 win in Vancouver. It’s absolutely wild to me that it’s been so long. It’s now up to general manager Don Sweeney to figure out how to complete the build of a Stanley Cup champion. And to be honest, after watching much of this year’s Stanley Cup playoffs, I’m not really sure the Bruins are even close. Put it this way, the Bruins, as currently constructed, cannot hang with the two teams who competed in this year’s Stanley Cup Final. Watching the Lightning and Avalanche, and the speed and skill that each team had, it doesn’t even feel as if these Bruins are playing in the same league. They can’t compete with Tampa Bay or Colorado right now. And it’s not just Tampa Bay and Colorado. It’s the Edmonton Oilers, or the New York Rangers, the other two teams who were in the “final four” of the playoffs that lost to the Avs and Lightning in the conference finals. Watching these four teams battle over the last month or so, it was like playing NHL ’22
and putting up the game speed to “max” once those conference finals began. That’s the only real way I can explain it. And if you watched the Bruins lose to the Carolina Hurricanes in the first round, and then watched the rest of the playoffs, you should definitely understand. So, what should Sweeney do? Well, first and foremost, he needs to hire a new coach after firing Bruce Cassidy. There are some who think Sweeney should’ve been the one to get the ax, but let’s be real here, that was never going to happen. It’s always the coach or the manager in professional sports who gets too much of the credit and too much of the blame. For those still upset that Cassidy is gone, get over it. That’s not the Bruins’ biggest concern. I’d say their biggest concern is a speedy, skilled top-six winger. In a perfect world, that guy is either Jake DeBrusk or Taylor Hall. And this is just me speaking, and I might be in the minority on this. But I don’t trust either of them to be the offensive game-changer these Bruins need to take things to the next level.
DeBrusk and Hall combined for four goals in their firstround, seven-game series against the Hurricanes. It left me wanting more. Would a David Krejci return be beneficial to them in the playoffs? Krejci is at his best in the playoffs, and so perhaps that could be the move that changes things. But I’m still not so sure. Both DeBrusk and Hall are under contract for the next couple seasons. But DeBrusk has not made it a secret that he wants a trade out of town. Why? I’m not really sure. Maybe he’ll figure out a good reason for his trade demands the next time he over-skates the net and misses a rebound goal. Sorry, that was a bit salty. But it’s true. Who does Debrusk think he is asking for a trade? Take it easy, kid. But if I’m Sweeney, that’s all I need to hear. Maybe he doesn’t have all the answers right now. But a good start would be to send a message to the team: If you don’t want to be here, you don’t have to be. Send that message home by trading DeBrusk. Follow Danny on Instagram @DannyPicard.
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June 30, 2022
SPORTS TODAY BRUINS SIGN Tweet SWEENEY TO of the CONTRACT Week EXTENSION
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WHATTOWATCH MLB FRIDAY, JULY 1 Boston at Chicago Cubs 2:20 P.M. NESN SATURDAY, JULY 2 Boston at Chicago Cubs 7:15 P.M. FOX SUNDAY, JULY 3 Boston at Chicago Cubs 2:20 P.M. NESN MONDAY, JULY 4 Tampa Bay at Boston 1:35 P.M. NESN TUESDAY, JULY 5 Tampa Bay at Boston 7:10 P.M. TBS WEDNESDAY, JULY 6 Tampa Bay at Boston 7:10 P.M. NESN GOLF THURS, JUNE 30 - SUN, JULY 3 John Deere Classic 2 P.M. GOLFC/CBS
SBT Staff
fter firing head coach Bruce Cassidy, the Boston Bruins made the complete opposite move with their general manager this week, signing Don Sweeney to a multi-year contract extension. Sweeney has been Boston’s general manager since the 2015-16 season. He is the eighth GM in the organization’s legendary history. Under Sweeney’s tenure, the Bruins are one of just four Eastern Conference teams to reach the Stanley Cup playoffs in each of the last six seasons. The other three teams are the Pittsburgh Penguins, Toronto Maple
Leafs, and Washington Capitals. Sweeney was named GM of the Year in 2018-19, the year that the Bruins advanced to the Stanley Cup Final, losing to the St. Louis Blues in Game 7 at the TD Garden. On Monday, Bruins President Cam Neely announced that the team had signed Sweeney to a multi-year extension. “Having had the pleasure of working closely with Don for more than a decade, I’ve seen firsthand his tireless work ethic when it comes to all facets of front office management,” said Neely in a statement.
“He remains committed to doing whatever it takes to give the Boston Bruins the best chance to win every season. I look forward to continuing to work with Don as we endeavor to bring another championship to this city and our fans.” Bruins CEO Charlie Jacobs also had high praise for Sweeney in the statement, acknowledging the Bruins as consistent “playoff contenders” under Sweeney’s watch. “We are proud to extend Don Sweeney to a multi-year contract as General Manager of the Boston Bruins,” said Jacobs. “Under his management,
CELTICS DRAFT ALABAMA’S DAVISON
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SOUTHBOSTONTODAY • www.southbostontoday.com
SBT Staff
t was a quiet night for the Boston Celtics at last week’s NBA Draft. The C’s only had one pick, with which they drafted University of Alabama point guard JD Davison in the second round (No. 53 overall). Davison, 19, averaged 8.5 points, 4.8 rebounds, 4.3 assists, and one steal in 33 games as a freshman at Alabama. He shot 46.3 percent from the field, and 30.1 percent from threepoint range. According to ESPN NBA Draft analyst Jonathan Givony, the 6-foot-
3, 195-pound Davison is “more of a long-term prospect.” Here’s what ESPN’s Givony said about Davison in his pre-Draft analysis back in March: “Davison entered the college game known as a YouTube sensation thanks to his explosive dunking ability, but quickly showed there’s more to his game, showing impressive feel as a passer and real grit defensively. He has an excellent physical profile for a guard, which has allowed him to play on and off the ball for Alabama, who has beaten some of the best teams in
college while racking up plenty of confusing losses. Offense has been a major struggle at times for Davison, who isn’t a polished ball-handler or a consistent shooter. It’s clear that Davison’s struggles as a scorer and concerningly high turnover rate make him more of a long-term prospect, which has allowed more productive guards to jump ahead of him as the season has moved on. Finishing on a strong note will be important considering the way Davison’s productivity has fluctuated, something that may make returning for another season in college
the Boston Bruins have been one of the winningest franchises in the league and a perennial playoff contender year in and year out. While we recognize there is work to be done to achieve the ultimate goal of bringing the Stanley Cup back to Boston, I’m confident that Don’s commitment to being bestin-class on and off the ice will help us climb that mountain once again.” The Bruins were eliminated in the first round of this year’s playoffs by the Carolina Hurricanes in seven games. Since advancing to the Stanley Cup Final in 2019, the B’s haven’t made it past the second round.
appealing (or necessary) depending on how his season ends.” Duke power forward Paolo Banchero — who was projected to be taken No. 3 overall — was the No. 1 overall pick in this year’s draft, being selected by the Orlando Magic. Gonzaga power forward Chet Holmgren — who was projected to go No. 1 overall — was drafted No. 2 overall by the Oklahoma City Thunder. Auburn power forward Jabari Smith Jr. was drafted No. 3 overall by the Houston Rockets. Iowa power forward Keegan Murray was drafted No. 4 overall by the Sacramento Kings. And Purdue point guard Jaden Ivey was drafted No. 5 overall by the Detroit Pistons.
Happy Independence Day and God Bless The USA! From The South Boston Today Team
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