South Boston Today May 14 2026

Traveling On School Buses In Boston Isn’t For the Faint Of Heart

School districts nationwide struggle with late buses. In Boston, parents, local officials, and the school district are pressing for accountability.

Tardy and unpredictable buses have long dogged families of Boston Public Schools (BPS), a sprawling district that transports some 19,000 students to over 200 schools a day. BPS and Transdev, the district’s bus contractor, have for years struggled to run the enormously complex operation in a city well-known for its circuitous streets and gridlocked traffic.

Parents need the bus to be reliable. A bus that comes 15 or 30 minutes late can mean canceled appointments, skipped work and lost pay, as well as disrupted learning for children.

Was It Something We Taxed?

There is a meme showing up all over social media as of late that speaks to the trend of what’s called ‘Outmigration’ taking place in Massachusetts. For those who may not have seen it yet, it shows a picture of vehicles on Interstate Route 93 with luggage containers on the roof, some of them pulling U-Haul trailers. The message being conveyed is everyone who can, is getting the hell out of this state. The sign with large letters that reads ‘LEAVING MASSACHUSETTS? WAS IT SOMETHING WE TAXED?

The answer to that question, according to surveys is YES. A reasonable question to ask in this brightly glowing Blue state might be is the list of what isn’t taxed here shorter than what is?

The avalanche of taxes that are suffocating Bay State residents; both individuals and families isn’t the only reason for the worrisome trend. The massive amount of regulations on what seems to be just about everything as well as the high taxes is making it harder for busi-

nesses; both big and small to stay afloat. Some are packing up and leaving too. The number of new one’s locating here has all but dried up. Have you noticed all the empty buildings in Boston? As companies leave and with few incentives for new ones to come, the jobs go with them and the tax base shrinks. In response, Massachusetts thinks it can compensate and fill the revenue gap by raising taxes even higher and/or creating even more taxes. That tactic doesn’t work. All it does is cause even more people and businesses to leave.

Massachusetts has some reality challenged people in charge who apparently failed economics class. They seem to think imposing ever increasing taxes and always thinking up new taxes, regulations and fees brings prosperity. It does not. What it does do is cause what’s taking place now – outmigration. Some people just never learn. The next brilliant idea (sarcasm) is to impose a mileage tax. They actually want to limit the amount of miles

you are allowed to drive your own vehicles. I f you go over the limit allowed, well then, of course, you are charged a fee for each mile over. A fine is a more accurate description for each mile driven over that mandated limit.

Massachusetts isn’t the only state where more people are leaving than coming. California, New York and Illinois are experiencing the same trend. Because like Massachusetts, they have the same mind numbingly stupid

policies that cause the cost of living to be unaffordable. Americans are fortunate in so many ways. One of the biggest benefits of living in our country is that there are places that still make it possible to keep enough of the money they earn to buy a home and raise a family and those states are where those who are able to flee unworkable, so called progressive policies are going. Here in Massachusetts, if things don’t change and the

leadership doesn’t smarten up, the outmigration will continue to drain the taxpaying population; the working class. People will continue to flee south to the Carolinas, Florida and Texas and west to the Dakotas and Utah and north to New Hampshire. Businesses and jobs will go with them. That meme with the sign on the side of the road that asks people on the way out ….’Was it something we taxed’. The answer is a loud YES, and so much more.

“An investment in knowledge always pays the best interest.” - Benjamin Franklin

BInformation Center The

“It Takes A Good Guy With A Gun To Stop A Bad Guy With A Gun”

y now, most everyone in and around the New England states has heard of the shooting that took place on Memorial Drive in Cambridge. For those not familiar with the Memorial Drive area it is a heavily travelled road in a fairly densely populated area in a city neighborhood. As police reports state and news media accounts also report, a man carrying a rifle; 46 year old Tyler Brown began shooting at what appeared to be random passing cars; hitting several cars and seriously wounding at least 2 occupants of those vehicles.

As could be expected, panic and mayhem quickly spread among both drivers and pedestrians in the vicinity. The shooter, it was said was not crouching or hiding. He was said to be brazenly strutting down the road out in the open and shooting at passing cars.

Police were called and told of an active shooter situation. Sirens could be heard rushing to the scene with an on-duty Massachusetts State Trooper first to arrive. The trooper immediately went into action moving people to safety and engaged the shooter by returning fire. He was joined by a civilian – a former US Marine; a veteran who was licensed to carry a firearm and fortunately was carrying his handgun at the time. The Marine also fired back at the shooter and was credited with saving the life of at least one terrified and now very grateful woman. Then other police quickly arrived and joined the gun battle and the shooter was taken down. In all, it was a pretty traumatic situation for everyone in the area.

What happened on Memorial Drive that day raises some questions and focuses on a few very important issues. First, the response by law enforcement is to be noted. Their profession-

alism was top notch and deserving of very special praise. And yet, there are some in positions of power who are constantly trying to chip away at funding and some who actually work to defund police all together. Those foolish anti-police officials need to ask themselves what if they were caught in that situation or it was their family members. Would they have a better understanding then of just how important it is to have a fully staffed and fully funded police department? Would they then have a change of position on the matter?

Next: Massachusetts isn’t alone as a place that has soft on crime liberal judges who allow hardened repeat offenders back out on the street much too soon. But this state seems to certainly have its share. Many locals personally know a lot of current and/ or retired police officers. A lot of them have the same complaint. They are doing their jobs taking violent criminals off the street only to have some liberal judge issue a wrist slap and let the criminals right back out on those streets to commit more crimes. In the case of the alleged shooter, Tyler Brown, he’s no stranger to law enforcement. Police say Brown was convicted of Cocaine distribution in 2008. In 2020, he pleaded guilty to multiple other charges including attempting to murder Boston Police officers. While prosecutors were seeking a sentence of 10 to 12 years in prison, Brown’s sentence was just 5-6 years. He was out on parole at the time of last week’s shooting. To be blunt, if there are no consequences for judges who keep letting violent criminals back on the streets with little to no prison time and those criminals murder or rape someone after being released, it will continue to happen. And finally, the saying that states “It takes a good guy with a gun to

Note: talk back to John Ciccone by email at jciccone@southbostontoday.com

stop a bad guy with a gun.” rings true. Had that Marine veteran who arrived on the scene of the shooting not been armed, there very well may have been more innocent people shot. The bad guys will always be able to get weapons. Because of his criminal record, Tyler Brown had no legal right to possess a gun because of his felony convictions. But denying law obeying citizens the right to own firearms; as so many politicians in Massachusetts keep trying to do, does not, in any way make the public safer. Each year, in tens of thousands of cases across America, legally owned firearms in

the hands of law abiding citizens are used in self defense situations or to protect the lives of others in danger. These are not statistics pulled out of a hat. This comes from FBI data and ATF numbers. In other words the number of times that legally owned guns are used to save a life far outnumbers the times guns are used to take a life or even used in a crime. As much as many so called ‘progressives’ hate the Second Amendment to the United States Constitution, it’s not going away – ever. America’s now more than 100 million legal gun owners will never allow it.

Window Into The State House

Poll indicates Mass. voters see stalled out MBTA, unhappiness with Healey

For all the talk of a new and improved MBTA, Massachusetts voters appear to be less than sanguine about the state of the public transit system, according to a new poll that also has Gov. Maura Healey with an underwater approval rating.

Forty-three percent of respondents said they feel the T is “about the same” as it has been, while 21% said it has improved and 19% said it’s gotten worse. Seventeen percent said they weren’t sure.

Asked about the condition of the system, roughly 80% said it’s fair (44%) or poor (38%). “Voters are more likely to [rate] conditions as ‘poor’ than all residents were when asked in 2024 and 2025,” according to an analysis from the MassINC Polling Group (MPG), which conducted the survey for the advocacy groups Transportation for Massachusetts and Mass. Voter Table.

That shows some stasis in public opinion, even as Healey and her transportation chief, Phil Eng, have touted an ongoing turnaround of the transit agency. Residents probably still recall the smoking Orange Line car from 2022, when Charlie Baker was governor, and the searing images of a woman jumping off the tracks and into the Mystic River. More recent headlines – “The

MBTA is closing a Green Line station for 3 years,” for example – probably haven’t helped. The agency is also bracing for a busy summer, which involves ferrying tens of thousands of commuters in and out of Foxborough’s Gillette Stadium for World Cup matches.

Even voters who ride public transit aren’t necessarily more positive, but 28% of voters inside Route 128 do see some improvement.

In talking about the poll results, MPG’s Richard Parr pointed to a quote from a former T general manager Rich Davey, who now heads up Massport: “You’re only as good as your last rush hour.” There can be progress across a wide swath of the agency, but if customers are still having a bad experience, it can be hard for the good news to break through, he said.

Parr also said the tough winter – including some monster snowstorms – could also be a factor. A MPG focus group, which included voters from Boston and mid-size urban centers known as “Gateway Cities,” expressed unhappiness with snow-clearing efforts from roads, sidewalks and bus stops.

The survey of 800 registered Bay State voters took place between March 12 and March 17, through live phone interviews and text message invitations to the survey. The margin of error is plus or minus 4.4

percentage points.

The poll, which comes amid slipping consumer confidence and accelerating inflation, also took a look at potential November ballot questions and favorable-unfavorable ratings of top elected officials, including Healey and Markey, who are facing challengers. “Both Donald Trump (31-61) and Maura Healey (39-45) are underwater, while Ed Markey is only slightly above (4037),” MPG’s analysis said. “Healey is particularly weak with men, voters under 45, independents, and voters with lower levels of education and income.”

The ballot question that proposes to lower the state income tax to 4% from 5% received the support of 66% of voters. But when the survey asked about the proposal causing a $5 billion state budget hole that could lead to cuts in education and health care, while delivering $30,000 to wealthier residents, the percentage in support unsurprisingly shifts to 40%.

That’s a “dramatic shift,” Parr said. But it’s also not a guarantee that it’ll happen. “Someone has to do the work to get that message out there,” he said.

MPG’s analysis found the people driving the shift after the follow-up question were largely Democrats, women and non-white voters.

The “yes” side of the election day

registration ballot question, pushed by Secretary of State Bill Galvin, is leading, 58% to 35%, with 7% undecided. But 37% said they thought the state already had it, versus 34% who knew Massachusetts does not, and 29% who are unsure.

“The campaign that wants to pass this needs to make sure people know we don’t already have it,” Parr said.

What was your biggest takeaway from the poll? Send it along here: gin@massterlist.com.

AROUND

TOWN: NEW ANTIMOULTON AD, CAMPBELL ON MARBLEHEAD AND MORE Is A Chameleon A Lizard? A super PAC supporting Sen. Ed Markey has a new ad calling Democratic challenger Seth Moulton a lizard. Commonwealth Together PAC, backed by 1199 SEIU and the Massachusetts Teachers Union, is releasing a new ad, titled “Chameleon,” with plans to spend six figures airing it on YouTube and Hulu. The ad features a chameleon changing colors, from red to blue, while a voiceover takes aim at Moulton, alleging he’s trying to “disguise himself as a progressive,” and saying he criticized single-payer health care, the Green New Deal and Sen. Elizabeth Warren’s proposed tax on “ultra-millionaires.” Moulton’s camp fired back by pointing to FactCheck.org’s pushback on the claims. “When we first heard the ad was about a ‘chameleon,’ we figured it was a look back on Senator Markey’s early years in office,” Moulton spokesman Taylor Hebble said in a statement. “Markey started

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CCITY OF BOSTON URGES FEDERAL COURT TO THROW OUT U.S. DOJ LAWSUIT CHALLENGING BOSTON TRUST ACT

ity of Boston and the Public Rights Project defend public safety law that helped make Boston the safest major city in America, oppose effort to compel Boston Police Department to participate in ICE mass deportations

The City of Boston fought back in federal court today, urging a U.S. District judge to dismiss a meritless lawsuit brought against the City by the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ), challenging the Boston Trust Act. The Trust Act, first passed in 2014, establishes that Boston police resources will be used exclusively to enforce criminal law and not to carry out federal immigration arrests.

“Boston is defending our public safety laws against unconstitutional

Tfederal threats to keep Boston the safest major city in the country,” said Mayor Michelle Wu. “Courts across the country have repeatedly ruled that the Trump Administration cannot force local governments to participate in mass deportations. Boston will continue to stand with our residents and urge the court to reject this unlawful threat to our City.”

In its motion to dismiss, Boston makes clear that federal law does not require cities to take part in civil immigration enforcement, and that Boston’s policies do not interfere with federal activities. The City also argues that the Constitution’s Tenth Amendment prohibits the federal government from co-opting state and local resources. The Trust

Act clearly establishes that Boston policing resources will be dedicated to Boston’s priorities, particularly criminal law enforcement. The Constitution ensures that federal law does not, and could not, dictate how Boston uses local resources.

“Federal law doesn’t require cities to take part in civil immigration enforcement,” said Jill Habig, founder and CEO of Public Rights Project.

“This abuse of power is a threat to both local authority and public safety. We’re proud to stand with Boston in defending its right to choose what’s best for the community.”

DOJ’s lawsuit against Boston is part of a broader effort to challenge local policies in cities and states across the country that limit

the use of local resources for civil immigration enforcement. DOJ has brought 13 such cases to date, and the four courts to issue decisions have all sided with local governments. In addition to representing Boston, Public Rights Project filed amicus briefs on behalf of over 100 local governments in six of these cases to defend local governments across the country. The City of Boston joined those efforts and has led or joined more than 20 other amicus briefs challenging unlawful federal policies under this federal Administration. The City is also a plaintiff alongside cities, counties, and states nationwide in seven cases challenging various unlawful federal actions.

Councilor Flynn Passes Resolution in Support of the Ride Safe Act

his week, Boston City Councilor Ed Flynn passed a resolution in support of the Ride Safe Act. Last week, Governor Healey filed An Act to enhance the safe use of micromobility devices, a first-in-the-national bill attempting to regulate e-bikes, mopeds, scooters, and other delivery vehicles. In February, Councilor Flynn also filed an ordinance to regulate all e-bikes in the City of Boston.

In November, there was a tragic death of a 13-year-old, when an e-bike collided with a vehicle in Stoneham. Last August, a man was hit by an e-bike and third-party food delivery driver in a crosswalk on Boylston Street and tragically passed weeks later in Septem-

ber. Cities and towns including Boston have experienced a significant increase in concerns related to unsafe operation of both motorized devices and delivery vehicles, including speeding, riding on sidewalks, ignoring traffic signals, and reckless driving in densely populated neighborhoods. Improving roadway safety is critical to protecting all pedestrians, including our seniors, persons with disabilities, and young families, as well as drivers, and delivery workers alike while ensuring that emerging transportation technologies operate responsibly within local communities.

The Act, also known as the Ride Safe Act, seeks to establish clearer accountability measures, improve enforcement

The Boston Public Library (BPL) is inviting artists of all ages to take part in a special Library Card Design Contest in preparation for Library Card Sign-Up Month this September. The contest will run from May 15 through June 15, 2026. The contest offers a unique opportunity for the community to help shape the look of limited-edition BPL library cards.

One adult (18+), one teen (13-17), and one youth (0-12) winner will have their original artwork featured on official Boston Public Library cards in circulation during 2026–2027, starting in September. In addition, honorable mention selections will be highlighted on the library’s website and social media channels.

Participants are encouraged to create original designs that reflect what the library

mechanisms, strengthen registration and identification requirements, and promote safer operation of motorized vehicles throughout Massachusetts. The Ride Safe Act would restrict “higher-speed devices” from sidewalks, bike lanes, and other “high-risk areas”, restrict modifications to make micro-mobility devices to go faster, and require the use of helmets. Lower speed e-bikes would follow bike lane rules and have helmet requirements for those under 16, while higher speed devices like mopeds would have stricter requirements like license, registration, insurance and roadway restrictions. The legislation also introduces a minimum age requirement for certain e-bikes and scooters.

“No reasonable person believes the streets of Boston are now safer with the proliferation of e-bikes and mopeds frequently traveling through red lights and stop signs, operating on sidewalks, and driving the wrong way on one-way streets. All of this has worsened our existing pedestrian safety crisis already caused by speeding vehicles. The Ride Safe Act attempts to address our City and state’s pedestrian safety crisis. I am thankful that my colleagues were able to support the Governor’s work on this significant.public safety issue,” said Councilor Flynn.

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

means to them and their communities. Submissions will be evaluated by library staff based on artistic merit, creativity, and how effectively the design communicates its message, including interpretations of the library’s motto, ‘Free to All.’

The contest is open to all BPL cardholders, with one entry permitted per person. Submissions must be original works created by a single individual; AI-

generated content will not be accepted. Entries must be submitted through the official online application form and include agreement to the Photo/Creative Works Release. Artwork should be highresolution and formatted to library card dimensions. The submission deadline is Monday, June 15, 2026, at 5:00 PM, and only complete entries will be reviewed.

Bus continued from front page

On the whole, on-time arrivals have ticked up in Boston over the years. They recently rose to 94% for morning trips in March – among the highest levels in half a decade. Yet a recent dip in performance, and a sharp increase in routes with either no driver or no bus assigned, have prompted renewed scrutiny from parents and elected officials. And even an on-time rating as high as 93% equates to some 1,330 students arriving late each day, said Boston City Council Member Erin Murphy at a March 31 hearing.

The trouble now facing the district, and parents, is how to fix it. Because not all public school districts publish bus transportation data, it can be difficult to make comparisons across cities. Yet Boston is not alone. School districts nationwide have struggled with bus service in recent years, owing to driver shortages and shrinking budgets.

In an Associated Press-NORC poll last year, 44% of parents across the U.S. said that their children have been late to school because of transportation challenges. And about 30% of school administrators said they worried about whether their district could provide transportation for vulnerable students, such as those with disabilities or experiencing homelessness.

The Boston City Council held a hearing March 31, 2026, to address

concerns over buses delivering children late to school. Yet families are not the only ones managing complicated schedules. Under Massachusetts law, BPS must provide transportation not only for public schools, but also parochial and charter schools, whose students make up 22% of bus riders. Those schools set their own distinct start times, adding wrinkles to an already complex bus schedule.

Further complicating matters is Boston’s notorious traffic – the fifth worst in the country, according to a 2025 report by INRIX, a transportation analytics company.

BPS, for its part, has worked to reform its system, launching the Zum app to provide parents more timely updates and reforming its contract with Transdev. A 2024 memo from the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education noted “some progress” in transportation, including a jump in bus on-time rates from 76.4% in September 2022 to 87.8% in March 2024. Levels have risen to 91% on average this year. Still, the district has never achieved its benchmark of 95%.

In 2025, the district exited its Systemic Improvement Plan, which it agreed to in 2022 to avoid triggering receivership, a protocol where the state appoints an official to run the system. That followed a withering state probe that criticized BPS for “deficiencies across a broad range

of district functions,” including poor bus performance.

Consequences for parents – and the bus operator. Being late to school – or late coming home – has rippling impacts on students, too, Ms. Buckman says. She says her son, who has been diagnosed with ADHD and autism, has missed medical appointments because of late buses in the afternoon. Arriving late to school can cause him academic and emotional distress.

Yet many parents feel that Transdev, the district’s contractor since 2013, has, unlike them, avoided consequences for its performance. Transdev hires and trains drivers, as well as operates and maintains the 750-bus fleet. Under the most recent iteration of its contract, BPS can charge the company $500 for every bus that doesn’t show or is more than an hour late. But for most of this school year, the district has not issued those fines – a revelation that incensed some parents and local officials.

The ultimate challenge is being flexible enough to cope with the delays. But most parents have fixed schedules and need to have a degree of confidence of on-time pick ups or suffer anxiety and suffer financially when tardiness occurs. BPS can only set the rules. Transdev has to comply if they wish to have their contract renewed.

Credits to Christian Science Monitor – Cameron Pugh

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

May 19, 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 617268-1619 for more information. This group 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

his political career fifty years ago as a pro-life, anti-busing and prodeath penalty politician, and more recently voted to authorize the war in Iraq.”

Zoning In Marblehead Controversy-Marblehead resident David Modica went viral online for asking “are we kind of being pricks” at a Town Meeting on zoning a golf course for housing in order to feign compliance with the MBTA Communities Act. He has a fan in Attorney General Andrea Campbell, whose office has taken action to enforce the law. Modica’s comments came up during her Tuesday appearance on GBH News’s “Boston Public Radio.” “You should play the whole video, it’s great,” she told the hosts, Jim Braude and Margery Eagan. When a caller asked whether Marblehead will be able to get away with it, Campbell said she has a lawsuit against Marblehead, but Gov. Maura Healey’s Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities is reviewing the zoning plans passed at Town Meeting. Once the review is done, she said, her office will look at any legal recourse they can take. Boston Mayor Michelle Wu is the scheduled speaker for Harvard Law School’s 2026 Class Day celebration for graduates. The celebration, set for May 27, is a return to campus for Wu, who graduated with honors in 2012. She interned for Mayor Thomas Menino while studying at Harvard Law and also worked for the WilmerHale Legal Services Center in Jamaica Plain.

NEWS NEXT DOOR LEGACY OF SLAVERY

: Harvard University released a database of more than 1,600 people who were enslaved by the institution’s leaders, faculty and staff, or who worked on its campus between 1636 and 1865. The database follows a 2022 report on the university’s legacy of slavery. – Harvard Crimson

OVERRIDE REJECTED:

Voters in Great Barrington rejected a $2 million Prop 2 ½ tax override, meaning the town will have to turn to free cash reserves to fill the gap. – Berkshire Eagle

LSenator Collins Supports Increase to Substance Abuse Treatment Services in State Budget

Files amendments to fund dedicated public safety patrols across South Boston and the First Suffolk

ast week, Senator Nick Collins, as a member of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means, voted for a Fiscal Year 2027 budget that invests substantially in public health programs and improves access to services across the Commonwealth.

Councilor

TIncluded in the proposal is $192 million for the Bureau of Substance Addiction Services (BSAS), an increase over the previous fiscal year.

In addition to these statewide investments, Senator Collins has filed amendments to support dedicated public safety patrols

Flynn

across South Boston and the First Suffolk District.

These include funding for the Massachusetts State Police, the MBTA Transit Police, and the Boston Fire Department to cover Castle Island, Pleasure Bay, Marine Park, M Street and Carson Beach, as well as train

Passes Resolution Urging the City to Require In-Person Work for a Minimum of 4 Days a Week

his week, Boston City Councilor Ed Flynn passed a resolution (11 support, 1 present) urging the City of Boston to require in-person work for a minimum of four days per week for city employees. While Fidelity recently announced that employees would be required to return to the office five days a week starting in September, and Mayor Wu indicated on WBUR she’s happy more office workers are coming back to Boston, Councilor Flynn believes the public sector has a responsibility to lead the way in bringing foot traffic back to the City and Downtown Boston to support our small businesses and local restaurants.

In 2023, foot traffic was reportedly down 33% from and office vacancies were over 20% in Downtown Boston. In September 2023, Councilor Flynn held a hearing to bring City of Boston employees, and City meetings and boards back but with a true hybrid option - that is both in-person and virtual. Councilor Flynn wanted to also bring back the hundreds of visitors that historically visited City Boards

every week back Downtown to support small businesses, to get a coffee, grab lunch or purchase clothing or some other goods. This includes officials and visitors to the Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA), Boston Licensing Board (BLB), and the Boston Planning and Development Agency Board (BPDA), and abutters meetings. Since that time, only the BPDA Board has resumed true hybrid meetings of both an in-person and virtual, while the others remain only virtual. This continued virtual only meetings practice has excluded many of our seniors and those lacking digital equity and internet access.

At that 2023 hearing, City officials dismissed concerns on Downtown and continued to emphasize how Boston’s neighborhoods were thriving. However, since February of 2024, joint studies released by Tufts University and Boston Policy Institute indicated that Boston could lose up to $2.1 Billion in annual tax revenue due to plummeting commercial property values. Boston may potentially be the most vulnerable in

the country as 70% of our revenue is derived from property taxes, and over 50% of our land is owned by nonprofits or nontaxable. Many Downtown small businesses and restaurants have closed since the pandemic as well.

“With falling commercial property values to cost us up to $2.1 billion in annual tax revenue, our City over 70% dependent on property taxes, over 50% of our land nontaxable, and Boston now over $100 million in debt after two straight years of double digit tax increases - it is long past time for the City of Boston and public servants to lead the way in bringing foot traffic back to Downtown Boston. It is critical to support our small businesses and local restaurants,” said Councilor Flynn. “While we thank private companies for bringing workers back, the public sector has a responsibility to ensure Boston is a desirable place to do business and remain a key driver of our city, state, and regional economy.”

For more information, please contact Councilor Flynn’s office at 617-6353203 or Ed.Flynn@Boston.gov.

MBTA CLOSURES REMINDER

The MBTA is today reminding riders that Red Line Ashmont branch service will be suspended between Broadway and Ashmont on the Ashmont branch beginning at approximately 6 PM on Thursday, May 14, and continuing for the next four

consecutive days, May 15 – 18. Mattapan Line service will also be suspended between Ashmont and Mattapan beginning at approximately 6 PM on Thursday, May 14, and for the next two consecutive days, May 15 – 16.

As previously announced, the

MBTA will perform final testing and commissioning work on the Red Line’s new digital signal system, which will strengthen Red Line service reliability for riders. Pre-testing for the new signal system was completed weeks ahead of schedule last month, and

stations throughout the district.

“I will continue fighting to secure the resources necessary to make sure our neighborhoods have the tools they need to be safe, healthy, and strong,” said Senator Nick Collins.

The Senate will debate amendments to the state budget next week.

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Winners will be contacted directly and may be featured alongside their designs on BPL platforms.

Anyone who lives, works, owns property, or attends school in Massachusetts is eligible for a BPL card. Those who do not yet have a card can sign up for an eCard online or visit any BPL location. For more information, full contest guidelines, and to submit your design, please visit bpl.org/boston-public-librarycard-design-contest.

ABOUT THE BOSTON PUBLIC LIBRARY

Established in 1848, the Boston Public Library is a pioneer of public library service in America. It was the first large, free municipal library in the United States; the first public library to lend books; the first to have a branch library; and the first to have a children’s room.

The Boston Public Library of today is a robust system that includes the Central Library in Copley Square, 25 neighborhood branches, the Norman B. Leventhal Map and Education Center, the Kirstein Business Library and Innovation Center, and an archival center, offering public access to world-class special collections of rare books, manuscripts, photographs, and prints, along with rich digital content and online services.

this upcoming work is one of the final steps to bringing the new system online. Track and tamping work will also take place between Savin Hill and Fields Corner. Critical upgrades to the Codman Yard Facility’s power substation,

Guy The Wine Mid-May Choices

In general, the following varieties will make a tasty addition to any spring table….

Pinot Noir and Beaujolais will bring a tangy acidity that will complement many springtime dishes, while white varietals, such as Chardonnay and Riesling, will bring flavorful notes of pears, pomegranate and caramel to all the other flavors at the table. Adding something bubbly, whether at the beginning or end of the meal, never hurts, either. Think Champagne or Prosecco. So, with all this being said, let’s get down to specifics….

Oregon’s Willamette Valley offers some of the finest Pinot Noir wines, this side of Burgundy. Domaine Drouhain, owned by Burgundy’s Jos. Drouhain et Fils offers one of the best. Jos. Drouhain Willamette Valley Pinot Noir, ($40.99), is a structured, elegant red, with notes of cherries, strawberries and tabac on the nose, as well as a full, rich mouthfeel on the palette and despite

its relative lightness, an unusually long and rich finish.

Owned by California’s 90+ Wines, the Lot 218 Beaujolais Villages, France, 2024, ($16.99), is produced by carbonic maceration, which enhances its fruity notes on the palette. The mouthfeel is light and structured with a pleasing finish, which really complements the vegetables.

California’s Russian River has no end of excellent Chardonnays. One of my favorites are the Butler Vineyards chards. The 2024 vintage, priced at $18.99, is creamy and buttery, with notes of pears, blueberries and forest floor. I think you’ll find that it will enhance everything on your table, especially any white meat main dishes.

J Vineyards California Chardonnay, ($17.99), is a blended wine with flavors of coconut and peach, as well as notes of Persimmon and Pomegranate around the edges. As well as being delicious with the main course, this one is particularly good with apple and blueberry pie.

Sparkling wines offer a wide array of styles and flavor profiles; one of the best for both its consistency and quality is Veuve Clicquot Champagne, NV, Ypres, France, ($56.99). This wine, like other sparkling wines, gets its effervescence from double fermentation. This one has an elegant, yet understated flavor profile; notes of tangerines and citrus zest on the nose are followed by the same, along with flavors of strawberries and peaches on the palette. As you might guess, the finish is notably long and full.

One other wine that’s a great fit

for this type of weather is Cotes du Rhone Blancs and the family that’s synonymous with some of the best in the world are the Guigals. They’ve been making wine in the Avignon region for over six hundred years, and few do it better. Their E. Guigal et Fils Cotes du Rhone Blancs, ($24.99), is hearty in its overall stature, with deep notes of cherries and forest floor. Have it alone, with pungent cheese(s) or perhaps some Chicken Marsala.

Another red that’s not only great this time of year, but one that’s even better chilled is Beaujolais Villages. J Remoissient et Fils, 2024 Beaujolais Villages Sec, Ariant, France, ($22.99), stands up surprisingly well to grilled meats, with notes of blackberries and a light tabac aura. On the palette, you’ll find distinctive notes of raspberries, peppercorns and a light caramel aftertaste; the finish is pleasantly moderate but pronounced; this one is also great with many desserts.

Speaking of deserts, the weather we’re having right now brings to mind a great accompaniment-Eiswein, especially those from our own Finger Lakes region in upstate New York. One of the best is Bratmoore Eiswein, ($22.99), from the Horrent Docks area. Serve it as cold as you can with homemade Blueberry pie and vanilla ice cream- now that’s the way to end any great meal!

So, there you have it, a sound selection of still and sparkling wines that will please all of your guests. By the way, if you have any questions for the wine guy, send them along! wineguy@southbostontoday.com

MBTA continued from page 7

which powers the Mattapan Line and can only be accomplished by temporarily suspending the Line, will also take place during this service change.

Riders can find complete information at MBTA.com/RedLine and on MBTA.com. More information on these service changes and alternate travel options is below:

* Free and accessible shuttle buses will operate between Broadway and Ashmont.

* Regular Braintree branch service will operate between JFK/UMass and Braintree, but riders will need to take shuttle bus service between Broadway and JFK/UMass.

* Fare gates will be open at Broadway and JFK/UMass.

* Riders are encouraged to consider Commuter Rail service between South Station and Braintree, via JFK/UMass and Quincy Center, which will be free during this service change. Riders arriving and departing from South Station should see Keolis staff for free access through the fare gates. Regular fares should be purchased for travel beyond Braintree.

* Accessible van service will be available between Broadway and Ashmont. Riders should see station personnel for assistance.

* Riders using shuttles bus service should budget ample extra travel time. For example, a rider travelling to Park Street from Ashmont should budget at least an additional 30 – 40 minutes of travel in additional to their regular commute.

Mattapan Line Service Change, 6 PM May 14 through May 16

AT THE THOMAS J. FITZGERALD POST THE TRADITION CONTINUES

On Sunday, May 24, 2026, Commander Thomas J. McCarthy and the Thomas J. Fitzgerald VFW Post 561 will hold its annual Memorial Day Services. All are welcome.

9:00AM – Assembly at Post Quarters 9:30AM – Parade/March to Medal of Honor Park for the laying of the wreath ceremony at the Vietnam Memorial.

* Free and accessible shuttle buses will replace service between Ashmont and Mattapan.

* Riders are also encouraged to utilize Fairmount Commuter Rail Line service at Blue Hill Avenue Station.

* Riders using shuttles bus service should budget ample extra travel time. For example, a rider travelling to Ashmont from Mattapan should budget at least an additional 15 minutes of travel in additional to their regular commute.

On Monday, the Boston Housing Authority (BHA) was fined $363,000 (with a reduction to 1%, amounting to $3,630) as a result of the investigation into the Ruth Barkley Apartments’ elevator failures.

I’m grateful to the Massachusetts Architectural Access Board for

Councilor Flynn’s Statement on the Recent Massachusetts Architectural Access Board Violations on the Boston Housing Authority (BHA)

taking these public safety violations and quality of life issues involving the BHA seriously. It is well known that elevator failures have been reported across the entire BHA system in Boston.

We cannot turn our back on seniors, persons with disabilities, communities of color, immigrant neighbors and low-income residents. This is a civil rights issue.

At this time, I am respectfully requesting a full investigation into any and all BHA properties with an elevator, including Ruth Barkley Apartments. BHA and its contractors must be held fully accountable for every elevator failure, and all

related complaints must be promptly reported to the Massachusetts Architectural Access Board. Residents have repeatedly shared that these persistent breakdowns leave them feeling unsafe, unwanted, neglected and forgotten. Over the last two years, I have held City Council hearings where seniors and persons with disabilities shared heartbreaking stories - being unable to make appointments, pick up medication, or make it to their unit to use the restroom. We all know that is not right and unacceptable.

With continued safety and quality of life concerns related to elevators in public housing across the city,

I continue to call for the City of Boston to establish a BHA Elevator Safety Commission. As I advocated with my resolution in February, this Commission may be composed of representatives from the BHA Task Force, as well as representatives from BHA leadership, the Boston Fire Department, the Inspectional Services Department, the Disabilities Commission, a City Council member, and a representative from the elevator maintenance industry. Please note I have offered to Chair this Commission because we can no longer ignore these dangerous public safety issues across the City of Boston.

Jim Brett to receive Dushku Changemaker Award from United South End Settlements

Dorchester resident and New England Council President Jim Brett was honored for his philanthropy and commitment to community development, with an award from a historic community organization.

Jim was honored with the Philip Dushku Changemaker Award from United South End Settlements (USES), one of the city’s oldest community organizations that has supported families and lifted generations of Boston residents out of poverty through personal and economic development and education since 1892. The award is presented at the annual gala which recognizes community contributions.

The organization’s focus has been steady over the years: “to create an inclusive community where neighbors from all walks of life work together to thrive, promote economic mobility, and build social capital to disrupt the generational cycles of poverty.”

The Philip Dushku Changemaker Award is presented each year to a community leader whose philanthropic commitment, civic engagement, and efforts to advance equity have made a meaningful and lasting impact in Greater Boston.

Jim Brett has been recognized for decades of commitment to supporting the broader community.

Jim is being honored for his work as an advocate for policies and programs

that enhance economic development and a high quality of life for all who live in New England and beyond. At the same time, he has a lifelong commitment to ensure all people are included, especially the community of people with disabilities, a group of individuals who are often overlooked and underserved.

“I am honored to receive this recognition. Boston, and the United South End Settlements, have a long history of strengthening families and improving economic and educational opportunities for families,” Brett said. “It’s about people caring for each other; neighbors helping neighbors. I’m proud to be a part of the tradition here in Boston.”

Growing up in a close family, Jim and his siblings learned the importance of caring and watching out for each other and their community. That included their late brother Jack who was a person with disabilities. Jack became an inspiration for Jim’s work to help improve access to health care, housing, education, and employment opportunities for people with disabilities. “All people should have the opportunity to live a high quality life and feel safe, valued, and appreciated,” Brett commented. “People with disabilities are often overlooked and are among the most vulnerable of our neighbors.”

Throughout his life, Jim has served in leadership roles on numerous state

and national committees working to improve the lives of people with disabilities. From the Massachusetts Governor’s Commission for People with Intellectual Disabilities, to the President’s Committee for People with Intellectual Disabilities (appointed seven times by three U.S. Presidents), and in his hometown of Dorchester, Jim’s contributions are significant. In fact, for 17 years, he and his wife Pattie manage and work at the Mary Ann Brett Food Pantry in Dorchester, providing food for more than 150 families.

At USES, the goal is to help families succeed. The mission follows “the belief that every child deserves an equitable start and the opportunity

to reach their full potential.” USES partners with families to support children’s learning and growth.

USES provides support for parents and caregivers to reach their goals. They provide education and enrichment opportunities for children and youth that support personal development and teamwork. Programs include after-school opportunities as well as camping programs out of state. The goal is to build a community that supports children’s growth, inspires possibilities, and provides tools for positive change.

To learn more about USES or how to donate or volunteer or attend the gala, visit USES.org for more information.

Massport to Attempt Guinness World Records ™ Title for World’s Largest Soccer Ball on East Boston Waterfront 45-foot

Tsoccer ball installation will be visible across Boston Harbor

he Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport) will showcase the organization’s attempt at the Guinness World Records title for World’s Largest Soccer Ball at Piers Park II in East Boston this June, creating a one-of-a-kind waterfront display that can be seen from multiple points along Boston Harbor. The installation is part of ongoing efforts to build momentum and community engagement throughout the city during the FIFA World Cup games at Boston Stadium in Foxborough this June and July.

Standing 45 feet, the soccer ball will attempt to officially break the current Guinness World Records mark of 38 feet, 11.8 inches, mak -

ing it the largest soccer ball ever displayed. The last record was set in Doha, Qatar in 2013. The installation will remain at Piers Park II for a full week, giving residents and visitors from across the region the opportunity to experience the display while exploring East Boston’s waterfront.

“We’re proud to welcome the world to Boston as Massachusetts prepares to host the FIFA World Cup matches and showcase the unique attractions and welcoming communities that make our state such a special place to visit,” said Rich Davey, Massport CEO. “Bringing this iconic display to East Boston gives people the opportunity to come

together, enjoy the neighborhood’s vibrant waterfront and skyline views, and share in the excitement of the FIFA World Cup.”

In addition to the weeklong display, Massport will host a community celebration at Piers Park II on Saturday, June 13, from noon to 4 p.m., featuring family activities, games, and entertainment. World Cup matches will not be televised.

The soccer ball showcase and community event are presented by Massport in partnership with HNTB and other sponsors.

“HNTB is thrilled to partner with Massport on this one-of-a-kind attempt to create the world’s largest soccer ball in the lead-up to the FIFA

World Cup,” said Paul Godfrey, HNTB Vice President and Massachusetts Office Leader. “Together, we’re not only celebrating the global spirit of the game, but also creating an unforgettable community moment—kicking off World Cup excitement while setting a world record at the same time.”

Events Timeline

Guinness World Records World’s Largest Soccer Ball Attempt Display

Piers Park II, East Boston

Weeklong public display

June 12– 18

Piers Park II Community Day

Marginal St, East Boston

Saturday, June 13

Noon – 4 p.m.

A rendering of Piers Park II in East Boston with Massport’s display of their attempt to break the Guinness World Records® Title for World’s Largest Soccer Ball.

South Boston Catholics Academy News Celebrating Grandparents and Special Visitors Day!

It was so wonderful to see the Grandparents and Special Visitors that came to South Boston Catholic Academy

and to our Early Childhood Center. The students could hardly wait to have them come to see them, to give them their special

cards and crafts they made especially for them telling them how much they love them and how very important they are in their lives, and to show them their classroom, with all their great work and things they are learning about at school. Also, the Grandparents and Special Visitors were able to see the amazing art work the children did at

school during our Annual Art Show Exhibition.

New families are welcome to email our Admissions Team at admissions@SBCatholicAcademy.org for more information. New families are welcome to email our Admissions Team at admissions@ SBCatholicAcademy.org for more information.

The Timothy “Doc” Cook Scholarship Awards

Saturday, May 9, 2026 saw true community pride and patriotism at the Thomas J. Fitzgerald Post #561 in honor of the annual Timothy “DOC” Cook Scholarship Awards 2026. Timothy “DOC” Cook enlisted in the National Call to Service program and was an Honorably discharged Hospital Corpsman Third Class Petty Officer (MFM). Timothy served alongside the United States Marines in Iraq. He was known as the kind of man who ran towards danger to save others. Like so many others, he carried things home that could not be seen.

Joe Cook, father of Timothy “DOC” Cook recognized his son, once back on US soil, was suffering from PTSD. Not all wounds are visible. Joe Cook and team put together the Timothy ‘DOC” Cook Scholarship Foundation. Scholarships are given to students who are willing to support and raise awareness to the trauma and post-traumatic stress that Veterans carry.

There were 14 awardees this year. Each winner brought their own thoughts, creativity and life experience as to how PTSD has impacted their families or friend’s families. Southie proud of these awardees and we wish them well as they continue to learn and will have appreciation of our military and the wounds of war. PTSD is real and as we deploy more men and women, we need to be able to help all those who come home wounded.

A special recognition to Commander Tom McCarthy of the Fitzgerald Post #561, Senior Chief Petty Officer Keith A. Jermyn, Gold Star wife Barbara Burt 101st Airborne Division, Kelly Conroy of Adopt A Platoon Southie Style, BFD Captain Chris Flaherty, Tommy Lyons of course and Kurt J. Power, United States Army – Iraq Purple Heart recipient. Thank you to the South Boston Delegation for supporting this important topic and working with the Foundation.

Joe Cook, we the community thank you for teaching us and sharing your son with us.

Scholarship Awardees

Sail Boston 2026 to Commence with the Meet Boston Parade of Sail

More than

60 ships from

around the world to be welcomed by the port of Boston

This July, Massachusetts will welcome more than 60 ships from around the world as the Sail Boston 2026 celebration arrives in Boston Harbor. In the largest convergence of ships to assemble in the area since 2000, millions of spectators are expected to enjoy the Meet Boston Parade of Sail throughout Boston Harbor on Saturday, July 11.

Beginning at 9:00 a.m. beyond Deer Island in Massachusetts Bay, crew and cadets will prepare to bring their ships into the city’s inner harbor (past Castle Island) close to 10:15 a.m. The ships will turn around in Boston’s inner harbor before heading to various berthing locations throughout the city. Once berthed, the ships will be open for public visitation through July 15, and include sailing exhibitions, sailing workshops, and opportunities to interact with multinational crews and representatives. Among the vessels conven -

ing in the Boston Harbor this July are 12 Flag Ships, representing allied navies from around the world.

“Sail Boston will give millions of residents and visitors the chance to experience our city and its beautiful waterfront through a spectacular display of some of the world’s largest wooden vessels, just steps from our city center,” said Boston Mayor Michelle Wu.

“I’m excited for our harbor to serve as the final stop of their journey, and I look forward to continuing our work with partners and the many city, state, and private agencies whose collaboration has been essential to bringing this landmark event to life.”

Boston proudly serves as the fifth port of the Sail 250 Regatta, a global gathering of tall ships and military ships to celebrate the 250th Anniversary of the founding of the United States. Tall ship celebrations are a beloved Massachusetts and Boston tradition that dates to

1976, when a band of ships came to Boston Harbor as part of the nation’s Bicentennial celebration.

Sail Boston has managed the convergence of the tall ships in 1992, 2000, 2009, and 2017.

“Boston’s maritime history is so unique; it is integral to our identity, which Sail Boston will showcase in spectacular ways,” said Martha Sheridan, President and CEO of Meet Boston, the presenting sponsor of Sail Boston.

“Sail Boston will offer wonderful experiences for visitors and residents alike, shining a light on our museums and cultural institutions, our world-class dining opportunities, the Boston Harbor Islands, and all the beautiful parks and green spaces that align our iconic waterways.”

“We are thrilled to welcome the world to Boston this July,” said Dusty Rhodes, Executive Director of Sail Boston, Inc., the organization in charge of the

event. “By bringing these ships into our harbor from all over the world, we hope to promote our city as a leading destination for world-class – and free - events, like the Parade of Sail and two fireworks displays.”

Sail Boston is managed and produced by Conventures, Inc., Boston’s premier event and production agency, in partnership with the City of Boston, Massport, and Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism. The event is supported by dozens of local companies, headlined by presenting sponsor Meet Boston.

For more information on Sail Boston 2026, participating ships, or media opportunities please contact T.K. Skenderian at tkskenderian@conventures.com. To learn more about Sail Boston and the Sail 250 Regatta, visit www.SailBoston.com or follow us on Facebook and Instagram and join the conversation using #SailBoston.