South Boston Today May 21 2026

Is The Boston City Council Representing or Sandbagging?

The Boston City Council deadlocked on a call to reject Mayor Michelle Wu’s proposed $4.9 billion budget, killing a bid from some councilors to put pressure on Wu to increase spending in a way that would prevent painful cuts.

Councilor Brian Worrell, the Ways and Means chair last term, called for the Council to reject the mayor’s budget on Wednesday, going against the recommendation of Councilor Ben Weber, the Ways and Means chair this term, who sought to keep the budget in committee for further discussion.

“For me, this is about whether the Council will use all the tools that we have before us to fight for what we’ve heard over the course of a month and a

Memorial Day May Have Even More Meaning In 2026

What special meaning and significance does the Memorial Day weekend hold for people would probably depend on who you asked. Surely, it signals what many consider the unofficial start to the summer season. Weather permitting, folks look forward to it as a time to maybe get away for the long weekend on a trip to the beach or the mountains. Back yard family barbecues and cookouts are always popular as are gatherings with friends for parties etc. All of these are; to quote an often used saying “As American as Apple Pie”. Perhaps you’ll stay local and relax at home and catch a game or two on TV and enjoy that much deserved extra day off on Monday. To a lot of South Bostonians and patriots all across America, it could be one or more of the above. To us, and people who live in other traditional, what most would consider patriotic communities around the country, it means all of the above yes, but something else as well. It means some-

thing far more important than our own personal creature comforts and fun.

Memorial Day is set aside to remember and to honor America’s heroes who served in our country’s armed forces and put their lives on the line. It’s a designated and sacred holiday to remember and honor those brave men and women who lost those lives defending our country so that all of us could enjoy the freedom and liberty that our Nation’s Founding Fathers envisioned for us when, with guidance from God, they drew up that amazing document called the Constitution of the United States. South Boston has many sons and daughters who never returned from fighting our country’s battles. On a per capita scale, there may not be another community anywhere that had more. Many people will, this weekend make that solemn journey to a cemetery where family members and/or friends are buried and place a wreath or some flowers at a grave site, say a prayer

or two and remember those heroes laid to rest. Others will attend a special Church Service, proudly display Old Glory or attend a Memorial Day dedication or parade. All the other activities that come with warm weather and sunshine are part of the tradition as well of course.

But as Americans, at least in the opinion of South Bostonians, and all proud Americans, remembering and honoring our veterans; especially those who

are no longer among us, should always remain the most important reason for this holiday. We owe it to those heroes to never forget the sacrifices made on our behalf. It makes us proud that so many of our neighbors never have and never will forget. This year, 2026, there is even an extra degree of meaning to this Memorial Day. America’s 250th birthday is something to be proud of and cherish and of course celebrate. As we honor those

who gave all for our beautiful country and the freedom and the liberties it guarantees to every American citizen like no other place on Earth currently and throughout history itself, we remember, that those we honor this Memorial Day and in fact every veteran; past and present, made it all possible. We owe them so much. God Bless them all.

From all of us here at South Boston Today - Happy Memorial Day!

“The willingness of our veterans to sacrifice for our country has earned them our eternal gratitude.” - Jeffrey Miller

OInformation Center The Drug Boats Still Being Sunk/ICE Has Arrived In Force

ne of the bigger stories several weeks ago seems to have fallen by the wayside. That story would be the US Military’s efforts to hunt down, intercept and destroy the drug cartel boats that were smuggling Fentanyl and other dangerous drugs into our country. If you remember, once the Trump Administration sealed the southern border, for a while the drugs pouring into the United States slowed to just a trickle from the flood coming over during the Biden years. But the cartels are persistent and creative when it comes to making money and shifted to what’s called ‘fast boats’. Those are the long sleek boats that often have 4, sometimes 6 massive and powerful outboard motors enabling them to reach high speeds. But as persistent as the cartels might be, the US Navy and US Coastguard are even more so. They hit the cartels hard by blasting them out of the water and often killing the occupants in the process.

It’s true; the story is no longer in the news. But that doesn’t mean the efforts to stop the cartels has stopped. The reason that it’s no longer in the news is because the media has decided to simply not cover it any longer. You see, all polling and surveys were giving the blowing up of the drug boats high marks among the American public. People of all political persuasions were giving it big thumbs up. Republicans and Independents were in strong support of the efforts. And even though Democrat voters were also in favor, many of their elected officials were adamantly opposed. And most thinking people know why. The green light to take out the smugglers was given by President Trump and whatever Trump does, the lefty politicians must oppose. If Trump

rescued a baby from the jaws of a shark, the likes of Chuck Schumer, AOC and Hakeem Jeffries would complain that Trump is starving sharks. It’s predictable and surprises no one at this point. They’re like circus clowns.

While the number of cartel boats being destroyed by the military is down, the effort is still ongoing and the Navy and Coastguard are still patrolling in force and sinking any that try to escape. The cartel boats are fast but can’t outrun ship to ship missiles and .50 Caliber machine gun fire. Because of the heavy toll that the cartel boats have been taking, there are fewer members who dare to take the chance. But there are still plenty of dumb one’s that will do anything for the amount money they can make. The public isn’t seeing it anymore since the media refuses to report on it because it goes against their claims that our military’s efforts failed. But the effort is anything but a failure.

The flood of Fentanyl coming into our country has once again slowed to a trickle and the result is a dramatic drop in drug over doses happening nationwide. Far fewer Americans are dying from those drugs because just like the flood of illegal’s crossing the border has been choked off, a fraction of the amount of the cartel’s poison is available which is saving thousands of American lives. Now if THAT isn’t a success story, I don’t know what is.

In other news, Boston’s Mayor Wu, some of the ‘progressive’ Boston City Councilors and other leftist politicians had vowed to stop ICE agents from coming to the city to arrest and deport illegal aliens. It didn’t matter if they were criminals; they pretty much told Tom

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

Homan, the head of ICE, hands off our illegal’s and almost dared him to try. Homan’s reply was in so many words, we are coming and there’s nothing you can do to stop us; we’ll get to you soon. Well, ICE means what they say, and though they have been making arrests in Boston and surrounding areas the numbers were relatively small – until now. ICE has ramped up operations nationwide as of late and that includes the City of Boston. The bottom line here is, Boston can call itself a ‘Sanctuary City’ all it wants but ICE has the authority to enforce immigration law

in any and all US jurisdictions and that’s exactly what they are now doing. Officials who attempt to interfere with federal operations will be subject to serious consequences. Tom Homan does what he says and means what he says and follows the law to the letter. He knows immigration laws well. He’s not a man to attempt to intimidate, to threaten or throw down a gauntlet in the form of a challenge. He’ll gladly pick up that gauntlet and accept that challenge and does it on his schedule. He said he’d be coming and here he is.

Window Into The State House

Common Cause Mass. wades into U.S. Senate race with ‘dark money’ critique

Anybody interested in tracking the rising temperature of the U.S. Senate primary featuring incumbent Ed Markey and Rep. Seth Moulton would do well to look at a government watchdog jumping into the fray with a critique of a “dark money” group.

Common Cause Massachusetts has become choosier in recent years about which hills it decides to charge up, so it was notable when the watchdog paired up with its national-level parent on calling out undisclosed spending already underway in the primary.

In a May 14 letter that has not been widely released, Common Cause asked the candidates to publicly demand that certain organizations, known as 501c4s due to the tax code they operate under, voluntarily disclose their donors due to the spending. The organizations are not legally required to disclose the donors, leading some to be called “dark money” groups. Calling for the groups to release the donors, and the amount they donated, is an “opportunity for you to send a clear message to voters that you are truly committed to transparency,” wrote Abigail Bellows of the national Common Cause, and Geoff

Foster, executive director of the Massachusetts branch, wrote to the candidates.

The request was spurred by a Federal Elections Commission (FEC) complaint filed by the D.C.-based Campaign Legal Center, a Common Cause partner. The CLC alleged that a group, which describes itself as a 501c4, calls itself “MA Progress Action” and has ties to a Moulton donor, may have failed to register, organize and report as a political committee, rather than as a 501c4, due to its ad focusing aim at Markey and his 50 years in D.C.

In an April story on the ad in April, the Boston Globe noted a “MA Progress Action” press release named Todd Kanter, the Moulton donor and a managing director at Silvercrest Asset Management Group as the group’s board chair. Emails requesting comment from Kanter and the group, which the Globe reported had spent more than $40,000 on TV ads last month, went unanswered Wednesday.

“While the FEC will ultimately make a determination on that complaint, it may not happen in time to equip voters with the information needed to make an informed decision in the state primary election or the general election,” Foster and Bellows

wrote. “That’s why candidates in this race should call for their 501(c)(4) supporters to voluntarily disclose who is funding their political spending.”

Markey and Moulton signed on after a MASSterList inquiry. Markey’s campaign manager Cam Charbonnier sent a letter to Common Cause Wednesday saying due to Markey’s history of criticizing “dark money,” “it is perhaps not surprising that the only dark money 501c4 currently involved in this race is spending money on negative attack ads targeting him in an effort to bolster his opponent.”

Moulton said in a statement, “As a longtime champion of campaign finance reform and transparency in politics, I support Common Cause’s call.”

Markey has a super PAC, funded by unions and backed by Granite Telecommunications CEO Robert Hale, though it’s required to disclose its donors and spending. The group is chaired by George Bachrach, who worked on Markey’s earliest campaign for Congress in 1976.

I’m taking guesses at Moulton’s total percentage at the convention later this month. Send me yours: gin@massterlist.com.

FROM BEACON HILL

PAROLE BOARD REJECTION: Despite Gov. Maura Healey personally showing up to lobby for her nominee to the state Parole Board, members of the Governor’s Council voted 4-3 to reject the former prosecutor after a debate that at times centers on a parolee who allegedly opened fire on Cambridge’s Memorial Drive. – MassLive

VICTIMS ADVOCACY: The Massachusetts Office for Victim Assistance, Jane Doe Inc and other members of a coalition for victims advocacy are sounding the alarm about a drop in federal funds, and asking Gov. Maura Healey to provide $13.8 million in the annual state budget for services of victims of homicide, rape, and domestic violence. –Newburyport News

SENATE BUDGET: Senate Democrats quickly dealt with 574 budget amendments on Tuesday while calling the moves part of a “robust debate.” – State House News Service

NEWS NEXT DOOR IN MEMORIAM: Retired CommonWealth magazine reporter Jack Sullivan remembers former Rep. Barney Frank, who died at age 86 on Tuesday. Former Gov. Deval Patrick told WBUR he views Frank as a “champion for the meek, for the outcast.” – CommonWealth Beacon and WBUR

IN-PERSON MEETING: The

continued on page 6

Senator Collins Supports Major Transportation Bond Bill to Repair Roads, Bridges, and Public Transit

Legislation includes funding for local infrastructure, public transit, and housing development support

This week, Senator Nick Collins, as a member of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means, voted to report favorably a $2.737 billion transportation bond bill that would help repair local roads and bridges, invest in public transit infrastructure, and support housing development across Massachusetts.

The legislation, H.5375, An Act financing long-term improvements to municipal roads and bridges, includes $300 million to support municipal road and bridge repairs, including $200 million for the tra-

ditional Chapter 90 program and an additional $100 million distributed based on road mileage to provide greater support to communities with extensive local road networks.

The bill also includes $500 million for MassDOT’s Lifecycle Asset Management Program to accelerate repairs to pavement and bridges in the poorest condition, $200 million to support housingenabling infrastructure such as stormwater improvements and pedestrian connections, $200 million for Department of Conservation and Recreation transportation

infrastructure, and $200 million for rapid rail and commuter rail improvements, vehicle modernization, and new vehicle procurements at the MBTA.

The legislation also reauthorizes several successful transportation programs, including Shared Streets and Spaces grants and major state and federally aided roadway and bridge initiatives.

“When we invest in roads, bridges, and public transit, we are investing directly in the people who rely on them every day,” said Senator Collins. “This bill also

creates important opportunities to secure funding for DCR sites and public spaces in Dorchester, South Boston, and the South End, including the Southwest Corridor, Moakley Park, Castle Island, Marine Park and Carson Beach. I will continue pushing to make sure these neighborhood assets receive the investment they need to remain safe, accessible, and well maintained for the residents who use them year-round.”

The bill now moves to the Senate floor for consideration by the full Senate.

REP. BIELE SECURES $400,000 IN HOUSE BUDGET FOR LOCAL RECOVERY, MENTAL HEALTH & TREATMENT PROGRAMS

Funding supports services at the Gavin Foundation, Joseph Nee Collaborative Center, and South Boston Community Health Center

Recently, State Representative David Biele joined his colleagues in the Massachusetts House of Representatives in passing the state budget for Fiscal Year 2027 (FY27).

Funded at $63 billion, the House budget includes substantial investments in public health and mental health programs, funding the Department of Mental Health at $1.6 billion and the Department of Mental Health at $1.3 billion for FY27. To combat the addiction epidemic, the House budget invests $184 million in the Bureau of Substance Abuse Services (BSAS) and an additional $3.15 million for grants for recovery services.

During budget debate in the House, Representative Biele filed and successfully advocated for the adoption of several amendments

to provide funding for crucial substance use and recovery programs, and mental health treatment programs.

Overall, Rep. Biele secured $400,000 in funding for programs that provide behavioral health continuum of care and comprehensive substance abuse and narcotic use reduction services at the Gavin Foundation, the Joseph Nee Collaborative Center, and the South Boston Community Health Center. Located in South Boston, these programs collectively provide services to individuals who reside throughout Greater Boston and Massachusetts.

“Every community in the Commonwealth has felt the impacts of addiction and substance use, which highlight the continued importance of recovery and behavioral health

treatment programs” said Rep. Biele. “These crucial investments will ensure that providers with proven track records will continue to provide to life-saving mental health and recovery treatment services to the most vulnerable locally and statewide. I am grateful to Speaker Mariano, Chair Michlewitz, and my colleagues for their support of these crucial programs.”

“We appreciate Rep. Biele’s efforts in delivering state resources to support the recovery community and for his ongoing support of the Gavin Foundation,” said Peter Barbuto, CEO of the Gavin Foundation.

“Rep. Biele has been a champion for programs like ours that provide treatment, recovery, and mental health services to the underserved and never-served in our communi-

ty,” said Jake Bombard, Executive Director of the Joseph Nee Collaborative Center. “We can’t thank him enough for his advocacy, not only at the State House, but right here in the neighborhood.”

“We’re so grateful for Rep. Biele’s support of South Boston Community Health Center in securing state funds to support our Behavioral Health services, allowing us to continue providing this vital care,” said William J. Halpin, CEO of the South Boston Community Health Center. “Our board, executive team and our patients deeply appreciate his commitment to keeping our community healthy.”

Rep. Biele’s amendments were adopted unanimously in the House, with bipartisan support, by a vote of 158-0.

City Council continued from front page half,” Worrell said. “Residents have been clear they do not want fewer youth jobs, less housing support, or cuts to food justice, arts and culture, veteran services, age strong or the complete defunding of human rights.

“While services are being cut, homeowners are still facing doubledigit property tax increases. People are being asked to pay more and get less, and that is a hard message to defend,” Worrell added. “The public came here asking us to use our power today. Using our power means sending this budget back and asking for a stronger one.”

Worrell’s call came after Mayor Wu issued a rebuke to councilors considering voting down her budget last Thursday, saying she would not increase spending and that requests for her to do so were “fiscally irresponsible.”

Weber, an ally of the mayor, cited the mayor’s comments when speaking against the effort to reject the budget, saying that the Council risks having Wu come back with a reduced spending plan due to lower state aid projections than initially anticipated, and losing its ability to amend the mayor’s budget.

The Council has the authority to amend, but not increase the overall budget, by moving money around between or within departments. Weber said the Council should stick to the amendment process, rather than look to “artificially inflate” revenue or spend from the city’s $1.7 billion reserve fund.

“The mayor’s made it clear that she will just resubmit the budget or a smaller one because state aid is less than expected,” Weber said. “Unlike under Menino or Flynn or White, the mayor doesn’t need our support. It is our job, if we have a problem with the budget, to amend it and override her vetoes if we have nine votes.

“So, a rejection now would be a gesture, just one with potentially serious consequences, and the hard work will still remain for us to do one week from now,” Weber said. “I deeply respect the advocates who have helped come up with these ideas, and I share the same goal, restore as much of the grant funding as possible, but I don’t want that to come at the expense of our financial future.”

Worrell argued that rejecting the budget early on would still allow the Council to go through the amendment process, given that the body has until June 10 to submit its amendment package to the mayor for consideration.

“We don’t lose anything by rejecting this budget,” Worrell said. “I don’t know what the mayor will do, but there’s an opportunity for all of us working together to make this budget better, and the only way that the mayor can help out in that process is if we send it back.”

Ultimately, Worrell’s call for a vote to reject the budget failed, as he needed a two-thirds majority, or nine votes, to allow the matter to be taken up.

The Council deadlocked, 6-6, to allow Worrell’s motion to reject the budget to come to a vote, in a split that’s become common this term, between Wu’s council allies and others who are either critics of the mayor or aren’t necessarily Wu allies.

Lining up behind Worrell were Councilors Miniard Culpepper, John FitzGerald, Ed Flynn, Julia Mejia, and Erin Murphy. Backing Weber were Council President Liz Breadon and Councilors Sharon Durkan, Ruthzee Louijeune, Enrique Pepén, and Henry Santana. Gabriela Coletta Zapata was absent.

The vote to block the matter from official consideration came after more than an hour of debate.

All councilors, depending on where

they stood on the vote, expressed concern about the cuts that have been proposed in the mayor’s budget, which Worrell cited when urging his colleagues to vote it down.

“No one has got up and said this is a good budget, but we can’t get to nine to reject what everyone has said,” Worrell said.

Durkan said her vote was about “fiscal responsibility.”

“I can see places for cuts, and I can see places for restoration,” Durkan said.

FitzGerald, on the other hand, said his vote was about looking out for the financial future of the city.

“The City of Boston is on shaky financial ground, and the projections that we see … show even less and less growth and even less and less revenue,” FitzGerald said. “It is our duty to apply pressure to the administration when we see that the City of Boston is trending in the wrong direction.

“I’m taking a long-term view here and saying that if we don’t put the pressure to change the underlying things, we will continue to deal with this,” Fitzgerald added. “The amendment process is only going to get harder in years to come, because every department is going to be on life support and pulling from one might actually kill it, and that’s what this body is tasked to do.”

Weber said the Council should find a way to make the mayor’s budget work, with the funding that’s already been proposed.

“We all have tough choices to make,” Weber said. “If the mayor on her own was trying to increase revenues artificially and spend down the reserves, I hope we would do everything we could to stop her from doing that. Just asking her to do that is not what I want to see in our city.

“We have $4.9 billion,” Weber said. “Let’s use it to provide the benefits our residents are asking for.”

Courtesy – Boston Herald

entire Springfield City Council –13 members – had an in-person meeting for the first time since the pandemic. The top topic on the agenda? Whether to end remote attendance. – MassLive

BUDGET BATTLE: Boston City Hall’s budget woes were front and center at a City Council meeting, where some councilors who oppose Mayor Michelle Wu’s proposed fiscal 2027 budget were dealt a setback in their effort to reject her spending proposal. –

Universal Hub

EDUCATION LAWSUIT: The Lawyers for Civil Rights are representing a group that alleges in a new lawsuit that Massachusetts is violating its constitution through policies that led to racially segregated school districts. – GBH News

CARNEY REDEVELOPMENT: The redevelopment of the campus that was once home to Carney Hospital is advancing, with a $450 million plan expected to be filed with Boston planning officials this week. –Dorchester Reporter

MARSHFIELD FIRE CHIEF: The Supreme Judicial Court upheld a jury verdict that found a former Marshfield fire chief lost his job after raising internal complaints. – Patriot Ledger

CLINICIANS STRIKE: Roughly 450 home care clinicians at Mass General Brigham, represented by the Mass. Nurses Association, voted to authorize a possible seven-day strike. – Boston Business Journal

TCouncilor Flynn Files Legislation On City Administration Transparency & 17F Information Requests

his week, Boston City Councilor Ed Flynn filed a Home Rule Petition on 17F reform to provide greater transparency from the City Administration on information requests made by the Boston City Council. The Boston City Council uses 17F formal requests to obtain information from the City of Boston administration. While Rule 17F has not been amended since 1982, twelve 17F requests have currently gone unanswered, with the earliest 17F order filed on January 28, 2026, over 100 days ago. There are an additional seventeen 17F requests that went unanswered at the end of each

Ayear from 2022-2025.

According to the City Charter, there is no timeline that currently exists, or deadline for the Mayor to provide a response, only that they can be summoned after seven days. While the City Charter indicates that the administration needs to answer a 17F request within seven days of receipt, there are no parameters enforcing this rule besides the possibility of a summons. Currently, the City Council can request the presence of the Mayor to answer a 17F in-person at a Council meeting if the order was not answered within seven days - an enforcement

Councilor Flynn’s Statement on Boston Using Reserve Funds to cover $70 Million in Budget Shortfalls

s we are now in mid-May and with the new fiscal year looming in July, I unfortunately see no other option than to support this action to ensure we do not raise any concerns with the major ratings agencies that may harm our ability to meet Boston’s longterm fiscal obligations.

However, we must have a serious and honest accounting of why Boston is now in this position. Since 2024, independent fiscal experts repeatedly warned us the City of Boston could lose up to $2.1 billion in annual tax revenue due to falling commercial property values. Instead of listening to the recommendations of fiscal experts to cut spending, freeze hiring, and examine our dependence on the property taxBoston increased the budget significantly, hired 300 new employees, and committed $135 million so far to a professional soccer stadium. With the City of Boston over 70% dependent on property taxes,

over 50% of our land belonging to large nonprofits or nontaxable, and Boston now having to dip into reserves to cover a $70 million deficit after two straight years of property tax increases on residents over 10% - it is long past time that the Boston exercise fiscal discipline, fiscal responsibility, accountability and transparency. In the final analysis, budgets are a statement of our values. We are now at a place where many departments were asked to cut 2% or 3%, but Boston Veterans Services is being cut 14.6%. The recommended solution was to cover those cuts with defunding cancer screening programs from the Boston Fire Department. If we now believe it is acceptable to balance the budget on the backs of veterans, military families, and cancer screening for our brave first responders - the City of Boston has simply lost our way and the values we always shared. Now is the time for positive leadership!

measure of which there is no known modern precedent.

Concerns remain that a 17F now only carries the same weight as a public records request. Under current enforcement, a public records request holds more weight because the requester is guaranteed to receive a response within 10 business days, whereas a 17F is a power of the Council that, in practice, does not often provide information within the seven days that it requires. 17F reform is critical to ensure that the City of Boston administration is either providing responses to information requests, or reasons

in writing for withholding such information, in a timely manner.

“Whether it be in Washington DC or the City of Boston, we can’t stand for the values of transparency and good government only when it’s politically convenient,” said Councilor Flynn. “For values of a democracy to hold - transparency, good government, accountability, and openness - they must consistently be applied regardless of who is in power for us to ensure we earn the public’s trust.”

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

Award winning taste.

Boston Water and Sewer Commission has won the 2025 New England Water Works Association AWWA/NE Chapter Tap Water Taste Contest!

We’re proud to provide water from protected natural sources that is quality-tested and meets the highest standards for excellence and taste!

Award winning service.

From source to service. The Commission is honored to have received the JD Power Customer Satisfaction Award for the fourth time in recent years.

As always, Customer service is our #1 priority!

Guy The Wine Lest We Forget

In general, the following varieties will provide a great complement to your Memorial Day activities…

Pinot Noir and Beaujolais will bring a tangy acidity that will complement many grilled items, 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 grilled vegetables and meats.

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, like grilled chicken.

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 Moet et Chandon,NV, Ypres,France, ($52.99). 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 cheeses 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 deserts.

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 Elgin Lakes 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.

Also, take a minute to remember those who gave everything so that we could all be here, free and grateful.

Gate of Heaven, St. Brigid and St. Augustine Chapel News

Congratulations to Fr. Peter On His New Assignment in June

Father Peter Schirripa, our Parochial Vicar, with mixed emotions, shares that Archbishop Richard Henning has assigned him to the Assistant Director of Vocations for the Archdiocese of Boston as well as the Catholic Chaplain at MIT Catholic Center. Fr. Peter’s new assignment will begin in mid-June. We will have an opportunity to thank Fr. Peter for his ministry here in South Boston more formally before his departure. We are saddened with Fr. Peter’s departure from our Parishes; however, we realize that this new assignment is important to the Archbishop and our Archdiocese. We will keep Fr. Peter in our prayers over the next month as he moves to his new assignment.

We will have a chance to say goodbye to Fr. Peter at the following receptions; Sunday, June 7th following the 9AM Mass at Gate of Heaven Church in the downstairs Hall and following the 10:30AM Mass at St. Brigid Church in the downstairs Hall. Thank You and God Bless You, Fr. Peter!

In remembrance of those who gave their lives in defense of freedom.

Cong ressman Stephen F. Lync h

“We honor those who have made the Supreme Sacrifice for our nation to preserve freedom and democracy throughout the world.”

Boston City Councilor, District 2 U.S. Navy (Retired)

MEMORIAL ON DAY

“We remember those brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. May God bless our fallen heroes and their families, and let us always remember those who served and gave their lives for us and the freedoms we enjoy.”

I Was Just Thinking…

by Kevin Devlin

“Our flag doesn’t fly because the wind blows it, it flies with the last breath of every soldier who died defending it.” (Unknown)

This upcoming weekend we will celebrate the Memorial Day holiday once again. It is often considered the unofficial beginning of summer fun includ-

ing family cookouts and initial trips to local beaches, while many other people visit cemeteries and attend memorials to mourn and pay homage to our fallen soldiers.

Memorial Day, originally known as Decoration Day is a federal holiday honoring and grieving the loss of our brave warriors who died serving our country.

The first national observance of this holiday occurred on May 30, 1868. Initially known as Decoration Day, this holiday was proclaimed by Commander in Chief John A. Logan of the Grand Army of the Republic honoring Union soldiers who died in the Civil War.

Beginning with New York in 1873, official recognition of this holiday spread among the states, and by 1890, every Union state had adopted it. Then, subsequent to the occurrence of the two world wars, this holiday became a solemn day to commemorate all members of the United States military who bravely fought and unselfishly died to defend their country. In 1971, Congress in 1971 proclaimed this holiday as Me-

The STory of The PoPPy

The PoPPy flower only growS in The abSence of oTher flowerS and only in ground ThaT haS been churned. in PerhaPS The beST-known Poem of world war 1, when dr. John mccrae obServed PoPPieS growing beTween The croSSeS on The SoldierS’ graveS, iT inSPired him To wriTe The Poem in flanderS fieldS. The PoPPy haS Since become known aS “The flower of remembrance” and iS worn in memory of our veTeranS

morial Day, changing its observance to the last Monday in May.

Besides gathering with friends and family alike to have barbecues in your backyard or taking trips to the beach, Memorial Day is indeed a time to reflect on those brave armed forces service members who sacrificed their lives so that we could continue to enjoy ours in a free and democratic society.

“I don’t have to tell you how fragile this precious gift of freedom is. Every time we hear, watch, or read the news, we are reminded that liberty is a rare commodity in this world,” said the late President Ronald Reagan. He was right.

It is a “rare commodity” fragile in nature that needs to be protected from those who wish to steal it from us.

Freedom is not free and sadly to protect this natural right, we suffer sacrifices which sear our souls leaving indelible marks of sorrow.

Thomas Jefferson, one of our Founding Fathers, declared, “Eternal vigilance is the price of freedom.”

Which means being prepared and willing to protect our Freedom from those who wish to destroy our democratic way of life. Which means sacrifice, and in many instances, the ultimate sacrifice.

“Let every nation know, whether it wishes us well or ill, that we shall pay any price, bear any burden, meet any hardship, support any friend, oppose any foe to assure the survival and the success of liberty,” said the late President John F. Kennedy.

I salute the brave men and women throughout our history who bravely fought and died for our country.

Their bravery is beyond doubt, and quite frankly beyond my imagination to comprehend the horror, suffering, and death, they experienced while defending their beliefs. While protecting and defending us. We owe our Freedom, our way of life to every single one of them.

May God Bless them for eternity as we proclaim our eternal gratitude for their unselfish deeds of heroism.

from Memorial Day 2023

Remembrance

of Memorial Day

As you visit the cemetery on this Memorial Day please do not remove the coins you may see left upon the headstones, they have a special significance.

The Meaning of Coins On A Headstone

A penny, you stopped and paid your respects. A nickel, you attended bootcamp with them. A dime, you served in the armed forces with them. A quarter, you were with the soldier when they were KIA.

Did You Know?

Memorial Day is a federal holiday in the United States dedicated to mourning and honoring military personnel who died while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces.

It is observed annually on the last Monday of May. Because it creates a three-day weekend, it is also widely considered the unofficial start of summer in the United States.

Memorial Day vs. Veterans Day

It is common to confuse these two military holidays, but they serve entirely different purposes:

• Memorial Day: Specifically honors those who died while serving their country. Because it is a day of collective mourning, it is traditionally considered insensitive to say “Happy Memorial Day”.

• Veterans Day: Celebrated on November 11 to thank and honor all living and deceased individuals who served in the military.

History and Origins

• The Civil War Roots: The holiday originated in the late 1860s following the American Civil

In Flanders Fields

BY JOHN MCCRAE

In Flanders fields the poppies blow Between the crosses, row on row, That mark our place; and in the sky

The larks, still bravely singing, fly Scarce heard amid the guns below.

We are the Dead. Short days ago We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow, Loved and were loved, and now we lie, In Flanders fields.

Take up our quarrel with the foe: To you from failing hands we throw The torch; be yours to hold it high. If ye break faith with us who die We shall not sleep, though poppies grow In Flanders fields.

War, which claimed more lives than any other conflict in U.S. history. Communities across the country began holding springtime tributes to decorate the graves of fallen soldiers with flowers.

• Decoration Day: In 1868, General John A. Logan formalized the tradition by declaring May 30th as Decoration Day. The date was chosen specifically because spring flowers would be in full bloom across the entire nation.

• Expansion: The holiday originally only honored those killed in the Civil War. Following World War I, the day evolved to commemorate American service members lost in all wars.

• Federal Holiday Status: Congress passed the Uniform Monday Holiday Act in 1968, moving the holiday to the last Monday in May to guarantee a three-day weekend for federal workers. The law took effect in 1971, officially making Memorial Day a federal holiday. The federal government has also designated Waterloo, New York, as the official birthplace of the holiday.

Modern Traditions

• Decorating Graves: Volunteers and family members place American flags and flowers on graves at national cemeteries, such as Arlington National Cemetery.

• Wearing Poppies: People of -

ten wear or pass out red poppies, a tradition inspired by World War I to symbolize the blood spilled by soldiers.

• National Moment of Remembrance: At 3:00 p.m. local time, Americans are asked to pause for one minute of silence to honor the fallen.

• Parades and Events: Many towns host community parades featuring veterans and active military personnel.

• Social Gatherings: Families frequently hold barbecues, picnics, and weekend trips to gather with loved ones, balancing the solemnity of the holiday with a celebration of the freedoms the fallen protected.

THE TRADITION CONTINUES

AT THE THOMAS J. FITZGERALD POST

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.

New England Aquarium to celebrate World Ocean Day with free programming and shuttles on Sunday, June 7

Public invited to meet scientists, conservationists, artists, and Indigenous culture bearers during day-long waterfront event

The New England Aquarium is celebrating World Ocean Day with free activities for the public to learn about the ocean and take action to protect it.

People of all ages are invited to Central Wharf on Sunday, June 7, for a day of special educational programming along Boston’s waterfront. This year’s celebration features opportunities to meet scientists face-to-face, encounter a 43-foot inflatable humpback whale, explore the connection between Indigenous fishing practices and Boston Harbor’s ecosystem, and engage with a striking climate art installation.

As part of its commitment to accessibility and inclusivity on Boston’s downtown waterfront, the Aquarium is again partnering with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Boston to provide free shuttles to Central Wharf from the Berkshire Partners Blue Hill Club in Dorchester and the Yawkey Club of Roxbury. Pre-registration is required; interested participants should contact their local Boys & Girls Club for timing and availability.

Guests can participate in free activities between 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. outside

the Aquarium in the Harbor Terrace Tent and on the Aquarium’s front plaza. Educational opportunities will be available inside the Aquarium for guests who purchase tickets. World Ocean Day is also a Boston Family Days Sunday, so students who live in Boston and their families can utilize this program for free entry to the Aquarium.

Free programming will include:

• Aquarium’s front plaza

• NOAA Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary – Meet representatives from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary alongside “Salt,” a 43-foot inflatable humpback whale, and learn about whale anatomy and ocean conservation (weather permitting).

• Fish weir building with the Massachusett Tribe at Ponkapoag –Members of the Massachusett Tribe at Ponkapoag will lead a hands-on fish weir building activity, offering an immersive experience of traditional fishing practices and the cultural and historical significance of these sustainable methods to the Indigenous

peoples of the Boston Harbor area.

• Harborside Water Quality Testing

– Learn how the Aquarium monitors water quality with live demonstrations.

• Artists For Humanity – From 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., join local youth artists to help complete a mural, designed uniquely for this event. Participants will also receive a postcard of the same design as a keepsake of the day’s festivities.

• Harbor View Terrace and Tent

• “Ask a Scientist” booth – Scientists from the Aquarium’s Anderson Cabot Center for Ocean Life, Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation team, Animal Care department, and BalanceBlue Lab will meet visitors and answer questions about their work protecting the ocean and marine animals.

• Community partner tables – Representatives from the Hispanic Access Foundation, the American City Coalition, the Stone Living Lab, the Neponset River Watershed Association, Surfrider Foundation, Boys & Girls Clubs of Boston, Boston Sea Rovers, Bow Seat: Creative Action for Conservation, the New England Aquarium Dive Club, and Rajji Desai will be onsite with activities and information about ocean and environmental stewardship.

• Glitter Dolls Face Painting – The locally-based Glitter Dolls team will be onsite for ocean-themed face painting.

• Book signing – From 2 to 4 p.m., book author Liza Ketchum will sign copies of Turtles Heading Home! at the New England Aquarium Member-

• Art exhibition and activity – At an interactive, family-friendly table, guests can create unique pins using youth artwork created as part of Bow Seat’s annual Ocean Awareness Contest.

• KultureCity Sensory Activation Vehicle – This mobile sensory experience provides a quick sensory refuge for those with sensory needs.

• Temperature Tapestry: A Climate Stripes Art Installation – With locations just outside the tent, this colorful installation displays 174 years of global average temperature data, with each stripe representing a year and illustrating the

dramatic impact of carbon pollution on Earth over the past decades.

• Simons Theatre

• Film premiere – The Aquarium’s Simons Theatre will be offering free screenings of the new film Ocean Dreams at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. The new documentary, narrated by actress Shailene Woodley, is an epic adventure from the deep fjords of Norway where orcas teach their young to hunt, to Raja Ampat in Indonesia, home to the richest biodiversity on Earth and where a groundbreaking project is saving endangered sharks with help from aquariums in America. Admission to the free screenings will be on a firstcome, first-served basis on June 7.

• Full programming details can be found on the Aquarium’s website Programming for guests who purchase Aquarium tickets:

• Remarks by Robert Lewis – At 11 a.m., Robert Lewis, President and CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Boston, will speak at the top of the Giant Ocean Tank about his extensive work empowering youth and strengthening community.

• Remarks by Commander Crystal Schaefer – Hear from 78th Commanding Officer, USS Constitution, Commander Crystal Schaefer at the top of the Giant Ocean Tank at 2 p.m., where she will discuss maritime culture, naval service, and the upcoming Sail Boston 2026.

• Conservation Learning and Animal Care presentations – Staff from the Aquarium’s Interpretation & Engagement, Marine Mammals, and Penguins teams will deliver short presentations throughout the day explaining how they care for animal communities and how visitors can take action in their own communities.

World Ocean Day programming is, in part, thanks to event sponsors: the Lowell Institute, the Barr Foundation, and WBZ-TV CBS Boston.

The Aquarium’s summer hours are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. seven days a week. Tickets for Aquarium admission can be purchased in advance at neaq.org.

Save the Harbor/Save the Bay Gives $63,000 to Fund Free South Boston Beach Events All Summer Long

Save the Harbor/Save the Bay and Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation Grants $311,000 to 76 Community Organizations and Individuals to Host Free Beach Events

Save The Harbor/Save the Bay granted over $311,000 to 76 community and youth serving organizations for the 2026 Better Beaches Program Partnership with the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR). Seventeen organizations were funded to host free beach events on South Boston beaches for the entire summer. The program also brings free programming to beaches in Nahant, Lynn, Revere, Winthrop, East Boston, Dorchester, Quincy and Hull.

The Better Beaches Grant Program collaborates with locals to create free events on DCR beaches in the metropolitan region to connect people with Boston Harbor’s beaches. The program places strong focus on breaking down barriers for people of color, people who don’t speak English as a first language, and people with disabilities.

“My favorite thing about the Better Beaches partnership is that we’re welcoming new people to DCR beaches all the time,” said DCR Commissioner

Nicole LaChapelle. “We’re creating spaces where people of all abilities and backgrounds can come, feel more comfortable, and truly enjoy the waterfront.

We’re grateful to Save the Harbor/Save the Bay for their longtime collaboration and shared goal of making these special spaces accessible to all.”

“We are especially grateful for our long partnership with the DCR,” Mancini continued. “Not to mention the continuing support from the Healey-Driscoll administration and the Metropolitan Beaches Commission, as well as from JetBlue and all of our corporate partners whose support allows us to activate our beaches all summer long.”

“We have some of the best beaches in the country in South Boston, and they are wonderful places to bring people together,” Metropolitan Beaches Commissioner Rep. David Biele said at the awards breakfast. “Congratulations to the grantees and we look forward to seeing you on the beaches this summer.”

These free events happen almost

every day of the summer, right into the fall. Some of the Better Beaches events happening in South Boston are:

• Pouvwa - Haitian Dance and Drumming with the Sea by Jean Appolon Expressions on June 21 12:00pm-4:00pm on Carson Beach

• FLOW: a live art, music, and dance jam by Paul Willis on July 31 12:00-8:00pm on Carson Beach

• Birding By The Bay by Brookline Bird Club on July 18 and August 1 8:30am-12:00pm at Pleasure Bay

• CPR by the Sea! By South Boston Collaborative Center (d/b/a Joseph Nee Collaborative Center) on August 12, 5:30-6:30 pm on Carson Beach

“For 40 years, we’ve seen how important it is to show our coastal communities how amazing a natural resource our local beaches are,” said Maya Smith, Save the Harbor/ Save the Bay Director of Programs and Partnerships and who oversees the Better Beaches Grant Program. “People deserve to have a free space to relax, recreate, enjoy, and connect with nature. It’s not only good for

your physical health but also your mental and emotional health.”

Since the program began in 2008, Better Beaches has awarded nearly $2.5 million to community groups, artists, and collectives. Grantees have leveraged an additional $5.7 million in cash and in-kind donations for a total investment of $8.5 million to support 1,846 events. This is thanks to funding coming from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and from Save the Harbor’s annual JetBlue Shamrock Splash fundraiser. Save the Harbor is especially grateful for the support of the Healey-Driscoll administration, Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs, JetBlue, the Coca-Cola Company, Massport, Liberty Mutual Foundation, Blue Cross Blue Shield of MA, Bay State Cruise Company, Mass Bay Lines, and Eastern Salt. Better Beaches programming kicks off in late May and continues through mid-September. You can find full listings of over summer events at www.SaveTheHarbor.org.

CapeFLYER Train Between Boston and Cape Cod Resumes for The Summer

Popular service begins on May 22 following record ridership in 2025

The MBTA and Keolis Commuter Services (Keolis), the T’s operations and maintenance partner for Commuter Rail, announced today that the popular CapeFLYER train service between Boston and Hyannis will resume for the season on Friday, May 22. Roundtrip trains will operate Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays between Memorial Day and Labor Day along with expanded holiday service. Regular service will operate on Friday, June 19, during the World Cup match at Boston Stadium.

The CapeFLYER is a unique partnership between Keolis, the Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority (CCRTA), the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT), and the MBTA to improve access to Cape Cod for residents and visitors.

“The return of the CapeFLYER is a great reminder that public transportation supports not only commuters, but those traveling to summer events, recreational activities, and warm weather fun with family and friends each season, and we hope even more passengers enjoy the service this season,” said Interim Secretary of Transportation and MBTA General Manager and CEO Phillip Eng. “The Healey-Driscoll Administration continues to be committed to enhancing transportation options across the Commonwealth that drive economic growth and improve quality of life like the CapeFLYER. MassDOT and the MBTA are proud to partner with Keolis and CCRA on providing this service to the Cape and islands every year, and we encourage the public to sit back and relax on these special

Commuter Rail trips to the Cape.”

“The Commuter Rail isn’t just for traveling to and from work during the week,” said Keolis CEO and General Manager John Killeen. “Over 10,000 CapeFLYER tickets were sold in 2025, which shows just how many people are choosing the train for leisure travel.

Keolis is proud to partner again with MassDOT, the MBTA, and CCRTA to offer this popular service.”

“We are thrilled to welcome the CapeFLYER back for its 13th season following a 9% increase in ridership last year,” said John Kennedy, CCRTA Administrator. “The continued growth shows just how much riders enjoy the convenience and experience of traveling to Cape Cod by train. From the popular bike car to the café car offering food and adult beverages, the Cape-

FLYER has become part of the Cape Cod summer experience and a fun, relaxing way to avoid bridge traffic and start your vacation the moment you step onboard. We look forward to welcoming both returning and first time riders for another exciting season.”

CapeFLYER service begins at Boston’s South Station and stops in Braintree, Brockton, Lakeville, Wareham, Buzzards Bay, and Bourne, ending in Hyannis. A round-trip ticket from South Station to Hyannis is $40, and children 11 and under ride free with a fare-paying adult.

Dogs and bikes are also welcome on board. The bicycle car will again be part of the train set with racks for bicycles and a tool kit for passengers to use to give their bikes a tune up during the ride. The train will also feature a café car.

Tickets are available now on the mTicket and are also available for purchase at South Station.

To view schedules and additional fares visit capeflyer.com. For more information, visit MBTA.

MCITY OF BOSTON, DANA-FARBER ANNOUNCE FUNDING FOR CANCER SCREENINGS FOR FIREFIGHTERS

Dana-Farber Cancer Institute commits 150K to to support cancer screenings for 500 firefighters

ayor Michelle Wu and Dana-Farber Center Institute today announced new funding to help preserve access to comprehensive early cancer detection services for Boston firefighters. Through a $150,000 contribution, Dana-Farber will support specialized screening protocols designed to identify cancer earlier for 500 firefighters across the city.

This is part of the City’s efforts to advance health and wellness initiatives for firefighters that have been impacted by the loss of federal grant support for cancer health screenings.

“Our firefighters show up every day for our community and are constantly training to use the most innovative technology and tools to save lives” said Mayor Michelle Wu. “We’re using that same determination to find every new innovation and opportunity to save our firefighters’ lives by tackling occupational cancer, and we’re thrilled to partner with the nation’s leading specialists and researchers at the DanaFarber Cancer Institute, IAFF, Local 718, and the Boston Fire Cancer Foundation. These screenings will save lives

through early detection and help care for those who take care of our city.”

“Personal protective equipment and self-contained breathing apparatus provide critical protection, but don’t eliminate all exposure to harmful substances, especially as modern fires burn hotter and produce more toxic fumes,” said Boston Fire Commissioner Rodney Marshall. “Regular screening is necessary to reduce long-term health risks and improve survival outcomes.”

The funds will expand ongoing City efforts to address occupational health risks for firefighters, who are often exposed to carcinogens and toxic smoke in the line of duty, increasing significantly the risk of cancer, cardiovascular diseases and respiratory illness.

“Cancer has a profound impact on firefighters, who face higher risks simply because of the sacrifices they make to keep our communities safe,” said Dr. Benjamin L. Ebert, president and CEO of Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. “Dana-Farber’s mission is to ensure that every cancer patient—regardless of zip code, background, or occupation—has access to high-quality, evidence-based cancer

prevention and care. We are pleased to support Mayor Wu’s firefighter cancer screening program, allowing us to bring vital screening resources directly to Boston’s firehouses, and to connect firefighters with the educational resources, care navigation, and oncology expertise available through Dana-Farber.”

“Thank you to Dana-Farber Cancer Institute for your investment to provide essential cancer screenings to our city’s firefighters, who face unique occupational risks that make them particularly vulnerable to certain cancers,” said Dr. Bisola Ojikutu, Commissioner of Public Health for the City of Boston. “Early detection saves lives and Dana-Farber has long been an exceptional partner in keeping our workforce healthy, in keeping Boston healthy, and in advancing our Live Long and Well health equity agenda.”

United Diagnostic Services, which specializes in early cancer detection, will lead the screening process and expand cancer screenings across all Boston Fire Department locations. Screenings will include blood and urine testing, as well as low-dose CT scans.

Mayor’s Cup Flag Football Tournament to take place June 6, 2026

The tournament will take place Saturday, June 6, at West Roxbury High School Athletic Fields, 1205 VFW Parkway, West Roxbury.

Flag football is a fast-growing, non-contact version of traditional football that is an accessible and inclusive option for youth of all skill levels. With rising popularity across the country, the Mayor’s Cup Flag Football Tournament offers Boston youth a chance to get in the game and experience the excitement firsthand.

Teams will compete in five divisions: boys 8 & under, boys 10 & under, boys 12 & under, boys 15 & under, and girls high school division.

Team registration is open now through Sunday, May 31. Interested teams can register online at boston.gov/parks-sports. For more information, contact Woodley Auguste at woodley.auguste@boston.gov or (617) 961-3084.

“Every day, our firefighters put their lives on the line to protect us, and I take our responsibility to protect them personally. When the federal grant funding ended, we could not afford to wait around for a solution,” said Sharon Durkan, City Councilor, District 8. “Through my close work with the team at Dana-Farber, I know firsthand their deep commitment to taking care of Bostonians. I am proud of our work alongside them to ensure that our firefighters continue to receive the care they deserve and deeply grateful for Dana-Farber’s visionary leadership in helping us step up and meet this moment together.”

“Occupational cancer continues to be one of the greatest threats to the lives of Boston Firefighters,” said Sam Dillon, President of Boston Firefighters IAFF Local 718. Early detection and immediate treatment are essential in our fight against cancer in the fire service. As President of Local 718, I thank those who recognize the severity and importance of this issue and are willing to work with us in our mission to protect those who risk their lives to protect others.”

South Boston Catholics Academy News Celebrating Ascension Thursday

The students in Ms. Kate Sieber’s Grade 3C Class at South Boston Catholic Academy led us in the school Mass celebrating Ascension Thursday.

They did a wonderful job as Greeters, with the Scripture Readings, bringing up the Gifts to the Altar and singing in the SBCA Children’s Choir. The celebrant at this Mass

was Father Peter Schirripa, our Parochial Vicar. During his Homily, he spoke about The Ascension of the Lord and recommended to the students/families that although Jesus ascended into heaven and we on earth cannot physically see him, we see him present in the Eucharist at every Mass. Father Peter asked the

students/families to remember the words “My Lord and My God” each time they see the Eucharist raised at the altar after the consecration. Thank you to The SBCA Children’s Choir, to Mr. Carlo Bunyi, the Music Teacher, and Mr. Ryan Lynch, our Parish Music Director, for the beautiful music at this Mass.

MBTA Announces New Weekday Harbor Loop Ferry Service Beginning June 29

The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA)

today announced the launch of the new F10 “Harbor Loop” ferry route, beginning Monday, June 29, 2026. The new route will provide year-round weekday service connecting Lovejoy Wharf (North Station), Central Wharf (Aquarium), Seaport, and Logan Airport, expanding transit access and improving

connections across Boston Harbor.

“We want people in Massachusetts to have more affordable, reliable and convenient ways to get around, and this new Harbor Loop ferry service will make it easier for commuters, residents and visitors to travel between some of Boston’s busiest destinations,” said Governor Maura Healey. “Expanding ferry service helps us take advantage of

Boston Harbor as a transportation asset while strengthening connections across the MBTA system and improving access to jobs, housing, and Logan Airport.”

“We have seen how water transportation has been embraced by the public and under the HealeyDriscoll Administration, we are committed to improving water transportation options for all,” said Interim Secretary and General Manager Phillip Eng. “Year over year, we have enhanced water service and this year is no different. I’m proud that we can offer this new route to be served by the

MBTA as we welcome both old and new riders this summer.”

The F10 Harbor Loop route – operated by Bay State Cruise Company – will offer service between the following stops:

* Lovejoy Wharf (North Station)

* Central Wharf (Aquarium)

* Seaport (Commonwealth Pier)

* Logan Airport

Designed with commuters in mind, the Harbor Loop will operate on weekdays approximately every 30 minutes during peak travel periods.

* Morning service will operate counterclockwise from 6:10am to 11:30am

* Evening service will operate clockwise from 3:55pm to 7:50pm.

* There will be no service between 11:30am and 3:55pm, or after 7:50pm.

The Harbor Loop supplements and does not replace the existing Seaport Ferry route, which is operated by the Massachusetts Convention Center.

The new route provides more consistent travel options during peak commuting hours.

The route also improves connections across the MBTA system. Riders can access the subway network at Aquarium Station and North Station and connect to other ferry routes serving at the Long Wharf / Central Wharf area, including Hingham/Hull, Lynn, Winthrop, Quincy, Charlestown, and East Boston.

Fares

One-way fares will cost $2.40 (full fare) or $1.10 (reduced farefare, matching subway and Zone 1A pricing. Riders may pay using contactless Tap to Ride, cash or credit card on board, or the mTicket app.

Commuter Rail passes Zone 1A through Zone 10 are valid on the new ferry route. CharlieCards cannot be used on any ferry route.

The new Harbor Loop advances the MBTA’s continued efforts to expand transit options, improve regional connectivity, and provide riders with more flexible and reliable ways to travel.

Free and Open to All, Sail Boston 2026 Announces Participating Ships

From 21 countries, more than 50 Tall Ships will tie up in Boston Harbor from July 11-16

Sail Boston 2026 today unveiled the roster of participating Tall Ships in the July event, confirming that more than 50 Tall Ships from 21 countries will parade into Boston Harbor on July 11. As it has been in 1992, 2000, 2009, and 2017, Sail Boston 2026 is free and open to guests of all ages. After completing the Meet Boston Parade of Sail on July 11, the ships will tie up in various berths around Boston for free tours, boarding, and engagements with the crew through July 15.

The fleet, listed below, is part of the Sail250® global tour, and represents one of the largest gatherings of tall ships in the United States in decades. Also joining the fleet will be an array of gray hull ships from the US Navy and other foreign navies, which will be announced soon. In total, Sail Boston will have more than 60 participating ships. So far, the fleet includes:

• 22 Class A vessels (over 131 feet in length)

• Naval and training ships from around the world

• 18 International Flagships, chosen to represent a country in foreign and domestic events

• Historic and modern sailing vessels

The complete list of ships is now

available at: https://www.sailboston. com/ships/.

Following the Parade of Sail on July 11, ships will be berthed throughout Boston Harbor, and a full map of berthing locations will be shared in the days ahead. On July 16, the ships will depart Boston Harbor on their own schedule and in coordination with the US Coast Guard.

About Sail Boston, Inc.:

Since 1992, Sail Boston, Inc., a 501 (c)3 not-for-profit organization, has hosted more than 475 international tall ships and vessels of interest to Boston and many Massachusetts coastal communities. Sail Boston, Inc. endeavors to develop programs that provide economic development and cultural enrichment for citizens, businesses, and visitors in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. For more information on Sail Boston, Inc. and Sail Boston 2026, please visit SailBoston.com.

About Sail250: Sail250® is a global gathering of Tall Ships to celebrate the 250th birthday of the United States. With stops in New Orleans, Norfolk, Baltimore, New York City, and Boston, each stop will gather crew, cadets, and visitors for an unforgettable experience in celebration of our nation’s birthday.