South Boston Today May 7 2026

Evaluating Boston Public Schools’ Proposed Budget Cuts

The Boston Public Schools (BPS) leadership over many years has suffered when a mayor succumbs to the pressure of various school community stakeholders and thwarts a superintendent’s plan for improvement. There is no magic formula, but indecisiveness ultimately hurts the students and their educational experiences. Each constituency - parents, teachers, administrators, business, political and students - has meritorious arguments of self-interest that play out annually during budget time. The superintendent and mayor must be synchronized. The superintendent must be decisive in executing the agreed upon plan and the mayor must be willing to and actually spends the political capital to facilitate success even

Don’t Forget, Mother’s Day is This Sunday

It’s amazing how quickly time passes. It seems like just yesterday we were freezing in cold, nasty weather. Oh, wait, it was pretty much just yesterday. And now, well, this Sunday is Mother’s Day. Mother’s Day is a time set aside to show our love to all mothers who are still here with us and of course to honor those who have passed on but still help guide our everyday lives from above and by the wonderful memories we cherish of time spent with them as they helped us grow into adulthood..

This special day, for those not sure of its origin has actually been around for thousands of years in one form or another. The traditional American celebration is separate altogether from the ancient holidays but it’s believed the idea for the US method of honoring it got its roots from ancestors long ago.

For example, the ancient Greeks called their Mother’s Day ‘Cybele’. The Romans named theirs the ‘Festival of Hilaria’. The early Chris-

tians referred to it as the ‘Mothering Celebration’. Current Day Bolivians commemorate their version on the date of a battle in which women took part, while in other cultures; the date is often significant to that country’s religious festivals. Some other countries around the world now follow the American way of observing the day. And why not? Americans do things best and we do it right. The nation to follow the American tradition of Mother’s Day most closely is Australia. This makes sense because there has always been a special bond between the Aussies and the Yanks as our friends ‘Down Under’ refer to us. It’s widely believed that the American version of Mother’s Day was started by Mrs. Anna Jarvis in 1908.

But that was then, this is now and as Sunday approaches, many people are in the process of planning very special ways to show their mother’s how appreciated they really are. The day might include that special dinner planned at a nice

restaurant with the whole family. If you haven’t made reservations yet, you better get moving. This is one of the busiest Sundays of the year for a lot of restaurants, they fill up fast. If you want to stay local, South Boston has some top rate dining establishment. A bouquet of flowers arranged just right with Mom’s favorite assortment always seems to bring a smile. This is a neighborhood that has long established florists where you can get the best at reasonable prices. Candy, usually chocolates is an old reliable standby. That works too. The variety of gifts fitting to give to one’s mother on Her day is endless. But in many cases, if you were to ask a mom what she’d like, the answer would often be a simple one. A visit from her children and often her grandchildren to spend that quality time with each other; her and her family together. And for those who live far apart, and today that is a common situation, a phone call and/or a video call to catch up on what’s been going on and certainly,

a card is always a nice touch. A bit of advice: For a special occasion like this, emails and text messages or communication using social network methods absolutely will not do. On this you can be sure. Whatever your plans are for this Sunday, South

Boston Today wishes every mother the best. May it be one to remember and to cherish for many years to come. Oh, and just one more suggestion: Taking and saving videos and photos would be nice to add to the collection of memories.

“Mother: the most beautiful word on the lips of mankind.” - Kahil Gibran

IInformation Center The Blunt To The Point With No Apologies

f you watched some of the hearings in Washington DC recently, among the many topics being argued about is of course the war in Iran. Front and center in the discussions are Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Secretary of War Pete Hegseth. Both are blunt and to the point and neither one of them will just sit passively by when being rudely berated or hit with ‘gottya’ questions by obnoxious harassing senators whose careers are now dedicated to hating the president. Both Rubio and Hegseth will go head to head and lock horns with the disrespectful liberal senators and give back better than they get. God bless both of them. Rubio doesn’t back off an inch when he says that to make sure that Americans; present and future won’t have to worry about our country being nuked by a lunatic Iranian regime that fanatically screams ‘Death to America’ at every opportunity, because President Trump is making sure that that regime will not be allowed to get nukes. No apologies. Presidents that came before Trump all vowed the same thing but those vows were just empty words and in the cases of Biden and Obama, bribes they paid did nothing but buy the Iranians more time to continue their efforts to build nukes. Even Hillary Clinton; when running for president said she would go to war to stop the Iranians. Again, more empty words and ridiculous bluster. Trump is the only one who doesn’t just talk, he acts. Secretary Hegseth at a later hearing went right after one Democrat senator that insisted that the US military was NOT winning the shooting or economic war against the Iranians and that US Forces were now in a ‘Quagmire’. That was the last straw for Hegseth who immediately shot back at the clueless senator telling him that he should be ashamed of him-

self for ignoring the great results the American armed forces have accomplished and for spreading the enemy’s propaganda and putting US troops in danger. Hegseth reminded the reality challenged democrat that 2 months is not a quagmire! Sinking 158 Iranian warships and wiping out their air force and taking out most of the evil empire’s leadership in the first 2 week of fighting is not a quagmire. To say it is, is a slap at the magnificent job US troops are doing and isn’t good for morale. Hegseth finished with the pointed question which was also an accusation aimed at the senator by asking “Who are you pulling for, just who are you rooting for? The Iranians? It sure sounded like it. And this brings me to a question that so many Americans are asking today.

On the minds and openly being asked by many Americans is - is the left leaning segment of this country so consumed with TDS – hatred for President Trump that they are actually wishing for American losses against the Iranians? Are they hoping to see a lot of American troops coming home in body bags because they believe it will make Trump look bad which is what so many leftists seem to crave? Think about it. Many American patriots believe this is exactly what the left wants. If Trump negotiates, the left; including buffoons like Schumer and Hakeem Jeffries start bellowing that Trump has backed down from Iran. If he issues threats and responds to Iran with force, his critics immediately shift gears and call him a war criminal and a war monger. The fake news ignores the massive victories against the Iranians; both militarily and economically and goes into contortions to put a negative spin on every win the US achieves.

I think by now, most everyone sees what even some people we know personally; severely TDS infected ac-

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

quaintances are up to. They take all the clearly phony AI BOT created memes supposedly showing US warships burning in the middle of the ocean that claim they were destroyed by Iranian missiles along with clearly fake polling numbers and fabricated economic data and post them on their social media pages and try to pass them off as being true. They frantically and deliberately post this fake propaganda and like little children, hope people fall for it. Yes, the price of gas is up. But when this conflict is over, it will come tumbling back down. When Biden and the auto pen were in charge, gas

was way up too. But that rise in price was deliberate as the Democrat war on fossil fuels and their campaign to shut down pipelines was their goal. The dems never had a problem with spiraling fuel prices back then. They said it was necessary for the environment. They wanted the US economy to run on windmills and solar panels and insisted cows were causing global warming. The famous movie line ‘Stupid is as Stupid does’ fit perfectly back in the Biden era and remnants of it still remain. But for the good of America’s future, that clown show has come to an end.

Window Into The State House

The Race For Suffolk District Attorney Fundraising Reports Are Interesting

Money isn’t everything in politics, but it does help. And Suffolk DA Kevin Hayden is going to need a lot more of it as he asks voters to re-elect him.

Publicly available campaign finance reports filed in recent days show he was outraised by one of his Democratic challengers – someone who used to work for him – in April.

Linda Champion, who ran for the job in 2018 and briefly worked in Hayden’s office in 2023, after a previous stint as an assistant DA in the office between 2011 and 2013.

“I worked in that office, I was in charge of the municipal and district specialty courts. I do think there is so much more we can do,” particularly in the area of the homeless court, she said in a phone interview last month, referring to a program that has been held at Pine Street Inn and assisted homeless or at-risk defendants, she said in a phone interview last month.

“He should endorse me and get out the way,” she added. “I think anyone who leans on your leadership, that is an endorsement.”

Her quip aside, Champion pulled in more money than he did as she leapt into the race: $40,350 to Hayden’s $32,867.

The Boston Police Patrolmen’s Association notably donated $500 to Champion’s cause. The powerful union remains salty with Hayden

after he charged a police officer with manslaughter in March.

Champion also raised money from the National Association of Government Employees (NAGE) union; former bank executive Sonia Alleyne, who helmed a super PAC for Andrea Campbell when she ran for mayor; Quincy restaurateur Jimmy Liang; and Essex County Register of Deeds Eileen Duff’s campaign committee.

Hayden had his best fundraising month in two years, thanks to some help from Sen. Lydia Edwards and Mayor Michelle Wu, who headlined fundraisers for him. Many of the donations came from attorneys with the Keches Law Group and McDermott Quilty Miller & Hanley, as well as Wu allies inside and outside City Hall.

Hayden also received $1,000 checks from Suffolk CEO John Fish; Whitey Bulger defense attorney J.W. Carney Jr.; former Suffolk DA Ralph Martin; and Dunkin’ franchise operator Clayton Turnbull. Hayden has $60,380 in cash on hand as of the end of April.

Taking a page from Wu’s 2025 reelection playbook, the Hayden campaign spokesperson called Boston “the safest major city in the country.” Steep drops in violent crime across the county due to Hayden’s “strategic and innovative approaches to serve all our communities and keep them safe,” she added.

Rachael Rollins, who won the 2018 Suffolk DA race before leaving for a federal job that ended with ethics

investigations, did not report raising any money but has been gathering signatures. She still has roughly $42,700 left over in her campaign account.

Amid chatter about her renewed political ambitions, Rollins is also taking part in a podcast with former Celtics captain Dana Barros called “Ball and Order.” She addressed her possible candidacy during the second episode, which was posted on April 29 and appeared to be taped mid-month.

“Nothing is final. As people hopefully understand, candidates can pull papers to consider running for office,” she said. “You have to get a requisite number of signatures that are certified from registered voters within the area you are running for geographically. So yeah. Papers were pulled but nothing is final.”

I was grateful to “Ball and Order” for including timestamps so I could skip the sportsball talk and avoid the Karen Read takes. Is Hayden in trouble or will he still be DA once the votes are counted? Send me your takes: gin@massterlist.com.

AROUND TOWN: BOSTON BONDS, NEW CHAPA CEO

For the 13th year in a row, the city of Boston has maintained AAA bond ratings from S&P and Moody’s. The two ratings, described by city CFO Ashley Groffenberger as the “Super Bowl of municipal finance,” as it comes just before Boston offers a bond sale that could bring in $600 million in funding for roughly 200 capital projects such as schools and playground renovations. The ratings place the city in a rarefied class: One of seven cities total – the others are San Antonio, Charlotte, Columbus, Denver, Seattle, and Oklahoma City, according to Mayor Michelle Wu –have earned that highest level. Boston also has a higher bond rating than the U.S. and Massachusetts state governments. The Moody’s analysis said the city’s credit profile “reflects a resilient economy that benefits from a healthy mix of industries and is anchored by significant and world-renowned

higher education and healthcare institutions.” The analysis added the tax base is “likely to remain strained due to a softening of the city’s commercial real estate valuations and limited new development. The rate of assessed valuation growth over the long-term will likely trend at a more moderate pace after historic development gains over the last decade driven by seaport district investments.”

Eric Shupin is returning to the nonprofit Citizens’ Housing and Planning Association, better known as CHAPA, as its next CEO. Shupin recently worked as the deputy chief of staff for policy in Gov. Maura Healey’s Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities. He worked on the Affordable Homes Act, a $5.2 billion borrowing bill that included zoning reforms, easing the path for accessory dwelling units (ADUs). Before joining the administration, he served as CHAPA’s director of public policy for six years and as a policy associate for three years. He starts the new job June 15, succeeding Rachel Heller, who led CHAPA for nearly a decade before she was hired as executive director of the Massachusetts Housing Partnership.

FROM BEACON HILL BLOWING PAST PROJEC-

TIONS: The state Department of Revenue reported it pulled in $1 billion more in April than they had projected, and overall the state has $1.6 billion more than it expected as it closes in on the end of the fiscal year. – Boston Globe

SENATE BUDGET: Senate Democrats unveiled their version of the state budget, diverging somewhat from what House lawmakers passed. The Senate version includes a requirement that any sheriffs who aren’t providing state finance officials with key information could face a fiscal control board to step in and manage their budgets. Senate leaders also added a section of the budget that seeks to make it easier to cancel a subscription. – GBH News

NEWS NEXT DOOR

MIDDLE CLASS POLL: In a poll for CommonWealth Beacon and WBUR, the MassINC Polling Group found that 69% of Massachusetts residents rate their

TSenator Collins Backs Record Local Aid in State Budget

Budget delivers more than $510 million in state funding for Boston

his week, Senator Nick Collins, as a member of the Joint Ways and Means Committee, voted for a Fiscal Year 2027 budget that delivers record levels of local aid to municipalities across Massachusetts, including for the City of Boston.

In advance of the Committee’s budget recommendation, Senator Collins advocated to Committee leadership for increased support for the City of Boston and priorities identified by the Mayor.

LThe Senate Committee on Ways and Means budget proposal includes the highest level of local aid in state history, with a $1.376 billion investment in the Commonwealth’s 351 cities and towns. The proposal also includes a $53 million increase in direct, flexible funding that municipalities can use to support core services and local priorities.

Under the proposal, Boston would receive approximately $254 million in Chapter 70 education funding for Bos-

ton Public Schools and approximately $248 million in Unrestricted General Government Aid, the Commonwealth’s primary form of flexible municipal aid. Unrestricted General Government Aid allows municipalities to direct resources where they are needed most, whether that means supporting police and fire services, repairing roads, maintaining parks and libraries, or strengthening other essential city operations.

The funding increase comes as

municipalities across Massachusetts continue to face rising costs associated with public safety, infrastructure, health care, and education, placing increasing pressure on local budgets.

“As costs continue to rise, it is critical that the state step in with meaningful support for cities like Boston,” said Senator Collins. “These funds are essential to maintaining core services, supporting our schools, and ensur-

continued on page 6

Investments in Boston Fire Department Training Academy

ast week, the Massachusetts House of Representatives passed its budget for fiscal year 2027 (FY27). As part of the budget debate process, State Representative David Biele filed an amendment to the House budget and successfully

Lsecured funding to help train firefighters in the City of Boston and across Massachusetts.

Specifically, Rep. Biele’s amendment allocates $1.7 million for the Boston Fire Department’s Training Academy. In addition to supporting

the Boston Fire Department locally, the Training Academy also serves as a valuable resource for public safety response teams across Massachusetts. In prior years, the Training Academy provided education and training to over 50 public safety agencies and

their emergency responders from across Massachusetts.

“Boston Firefighters IAFF Local 718 commends the advocacy of Representative Biele to secure funding that will ensure our firefighters are well-trained

continued on page 6

Councilor Flynn Files Hearing Order on a Moratorium for Artificial Intelligence (AI) Data Centers

ast week, Boston City Councilor Ed Flynn filed a hearing order to discuss a moratorium on artificial intelligence (AI) data centers in Boston. In recent years, state and local governments across the country have been slow to adjust and regulate advances in emerging technologies, including continued public and pedestrian safety issues related to both rideshare and third-party food delivery applications. Over the last year, municipalities across the country have heard from constituents concerned about the potential impacts of AI data centers on electricity and utility bills, fresh water consumption and sustainability, contaminated soil, and noise pollution among others.

During a nationwide affordability crisis, local communities across the United States have raised concerns on the impact of large-scale data

center infrastructure on their electricity bills. Data centers also require cooling systems and consume significant amounts of freshwater. The indirect water consumption from data centers in the United States reached an estimated 211 billion gallons in 2023, increasing concerns about water scarcity and sustainability. Moreover, Data centers generate continuous noise pollution from cooling systems and equipment, with nearby residents reporting persistent humming that negatively impacts their quality of life and public health. This month, a bipartisan bill passed the Maine Legislature to impose an 18-month moratorium on new data centers, while Port Washington, Wisconsin passed a referendum requiring AI data center projects in excess of $10 million that receive tax benefits to first obtain approval from local voters. While the state of Massachusetts and

the City of Boston have been supportive of AI data center development in referencing competitiveness and the innovation economy, concerns regarding community impact and electricity costs have been acknowledged. In Lowell, the Markley Data Center has raised similar concerns among residents regarding noise pollution, air quality, and lack of transparency in expansion plans. This led to the City of Lowell imposing a moratorium on further expansion.

More than 4,200 data centers now operate across the United States, and their rapid expansion is increasingly affecting the daily lives of hundreds of thousands of residents. While municipalities have been slow to regulate impacts of innovation technology in recent years, it is critical that the City of Boston exercise transparency and discuss a potential moratorium on data centers.

“For years, municipalities have been slow to regulate advances in emerging technologies and impacts to public safety and quality of life. While it is critical that our city and state remain at the forefront of technology and mindful of economic growth, local governments continue to hear from constituents on negative impacts from artificial intelligence (AI) data center infrastructure - including electricity usage and utility bills, water consumption and sustainability, noise pollution, among others. With technology as advanced, far-reaching, and consequential as AI and data centers, the City of Boston must exercise transparency and carefully consider any impacts on employment, cost of living, and the environment for our residents.”

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

Budget Cuts continued from front page

Given that the mayor of Boston appoints all seven voting members to the board, the mayoral-controlled BPS must assume greater accountability, as responsibility for school performance is clearly centralized. A mayor who “sticks to her guns” can prioritize school reform as a top city priority, ensuring it remains at the top of the public agenda.

Education reformers have long argued that mayoral authority acts as a necessary counterweight to powerful teachers’ unions and stagnant bureaucratic systems, allowing for faster decision-making, allowing for shifting financial resources directly to classrooms, modernizing facilities, and supporting afterschool programs. By standing firm, the mayor and superintendent can drive long-term structural changes such as adopting rigorous learning standards that in the past had been interrupted by superintendent turnover.

funds for “adult priorities” when they conflict with student academic needs. While the case for a firm stance is strong in some contexts, opponents raise valid concerns over alienating stakeholders, ignoring community input. That is a risk a strong mayor must take on if the BPS is to improve to the level that will keep residents from moving elsewhere.

Boston Public Schools’ FY2027 budget proposal at $1.71 billion is facing strong pushback from educators, parents, and advocacy groups over the scale and nature of the cuts. The district is reducing 568 full-time equivalent positions from the general fund and 110 from outside funds, with many roles tied to bilingual education, special education, and support staff. This includes potential layoffs of teachers, librarians, social workers, and homeless liaisons, which advocates warn could disproportionately harm students with disabilities, English language learners, and Black and Latino students.

staff will mean less individualized attention, reduced extracurriculars, and weaker support for vulnerable students. Advocates highlight that pandemic-era funding is ending and healthcare costs are rising, compounding financial pressures.

The cuts come amid staffing shortages, rising operational costs, and deferred maintenance. Larger class sizes, reduced extracurriculars, and limited technology investments are potential consequences if funding is not increased. The district is also transitioning from a weighted student funding model to a new formula, which some analysts say could disadvantage schools without strong political advocacy.

quality as good, very good or excellent, but 42% said they’re worse off than a year ago, from a financial perspective, and 40% say it’ll be worse a year from now. – CommonWealth Beacon

continued from page 5 at the expense of one’s electability. The case for a mayor standing firm on public school reform is often referred to as “sticking by your guns” and rests on the need to overcome deeply entrenched bureaucratic resistance, improve academic performance through unified leadership, and prioritize student outcomes over adult interests. While often politically contentious, this approach, particularly when taking the form of mayoral control of schools, can provide needed stability and accelerate reform.

Easier said than done, the long-term health of the city depends on education quality, which as a consequence justifies the political risks of standing up to interest groups. This includes, in some cases, resisting demands to distribute

BPS officials argue the cuts are necessary to align staffing with a projected 3,000-student enrollment decline since 2024–25, through school closures and classroom consolidations. They emphasize that 93% of the budget supports studentfacing services, and $32 million in cuts will impact central office functions. Superintendent Mary Skipper frames the approach as protecting progress on inclusive education and avoiding a loss of ground.

Boston Teachers Union (BTU) has called for an additional 1% of the budget ($48M) to prevent layoffs, warning that cuts could undermine academic and social support. Parents and students testified that fewer

SOUTHIE AUTO SERVICE

These are the key elements of a focused and committed plan. Do the cuts align with BPS’s stated academic and equity goals? What alternative funding or cost-saving measures could preserve essential services? How will the new funding formula affect equity across schools? What safeguards are in place to protect vulnerable student populations?

While BPS cites enrollment decline and cost pressures as justifications, critics argue the cuts risk eroding the district’s progress, especially in inclusive and bilingual education. Without supplemental funding, the proposed budget could deepen inequities and strain student support systems.

All stakeholders have legitimate concerns but to move forward diminishing or compromising the fundamentals of an agreed-to plan will keep the BPS on a treadmill of mediocrity. Bostonians will not stand for it and will not stick around if compromise overtakes resolve.

continued from page 5

ing the city can meet its obligations to residents. This is how we keep things running and make sure Boston continues to function effectively.”

The Senate’s proposal also aims to distribute new funding more equitably across communities statewide while ensuring municipalities have the flexibility needed to respond to local challenges and priorities.

The Senate will continue deliberations on the final budget in the coming weeks.

BROOKLINE OVERRIDE: Brookline voters signed off on a property tax override, with the “yes” side winning by nearly 20 points. The result means property owners see a 18% increase over three years, and the town moves ahead with a budget proposal that maintains services. – Brookline.News

SALEM SCHOOL: Voters in Salem signed off on a debt exclusion override to help fund a new high school. Fifty-seven percent voted in favor. – Salem News

VET CUT: Boston Councilors Ed Flynn and Erin Murphy are hitting the Wu administration for a proposed $724,000 cut to the veterans services budget. The cuts come mostly in the form of two grant programs, and the last two years the department has seen a surplus. – Boston Herald

PROP 2.5 REPORT: A report from the Fiscal Alliance Foundation found homeowners are paying less in property taxes due to Prop 2 ½. The 1980s law has come in for criticism as city and town officials cite inflation and rising health care costs across the state. – Eagle-Tribune

and prepared to carry out our mission keeping Boston and its residents safe,” said Sam Dillon, President of Boston Firefighters Local 718.

Rep. Biele’s amendment garnered bi-partisan support from over 90 state representatives from across Massachusetts and was adopted unanimously.

“I am grateful for the support of my colleagues in making these crucial investments for our first responders,” said Rep. Biele. “These funds will ensure that our firefighters are trained and have the resources necessary need to keep our communities safe.”

In addition to Rep. Biele’s amendment, the House FY27 budget includes over $3.126 million for fire department hazardous material response teams across Massachusetts, including the City of Boston.

TCouncilor Flynn Files Hearing Order to Immediately Reinstate 14.6% Cut from Veterans Services

his week, Boston City Councilor Ed Flynn filed a hearing order to discuss immediately reinstating a 14.6% and $724,000 cut from the City of Boston Department of Veterans Services from the recommended FY27 Operating Budget. He also filed a resolution with Councilor At-Large Erin Murphy on this issue as well. In 2023, the Boston City Council previously voted to cut $900,000 from Boston Veterans Services, before veterans

and military families were able to advocate to restore that funding.

The recommended FY27 Operating Budget indicates a 14.6% reduction amounting to $724,000. It is never acceptable, under any circumstances, to cut services or programs for veterans and military families. According to reports, this also comes at a time when Massachusetts has a net loss of 264 workers from the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) in 2025. In

Councilor Flynn’s opinion, these cuts will negatively impact lowincome veterans, women veterans, and black veterans. Councilor Flynn believes that we have an obligation to support our returning military families, and that it is never acceptable, under any circumstances, to cut services or programs for veterans and military families.

“We must always stay true to President Lincoln’s solemn promise to care for those who have served in

our nation’s military, for their families, caregivers, and survivors. It’s about respect and dignity for veterans and military families and keeping that sacred promise. The City of Boston has lost its way if we now set a precedent to balance the budget on the backs of veterans and military families,” said Councilor Flynn. For more information, please contact Councilor Flynn’s office at 617-635-3203 or Ed.Flynn@ Boston.gov.

Timothy “Doc” Cook Scholarship Awards Ceremony,

Saturday

Cook Scholarship provides tuition assistance to South Boston students in grades 7-12, honoring Navy

legacy of service by raising awareness for PTSD.

Awards Ceremony: Scheduled for May 9, 2026, at 11:00 AM at the Thomas J Fitzgerald VFW Post 561, 715 East Fourth Street, South Boston.

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.

Guy The Wine A Special Person

We all are or were lucky to have them in our lives. My mom was always there for me and I’m hoping that everyone reading this feels the same. While any of the following will make a nice gift, don’t forget the card!

C.K. Mondavi, Chardonnay, California ($18.99). This one is made by blending juice from several vineyards in the Napa and Sonoma AVAs, as well as Lake and Mendocino Counties. The blend has a nose of mountain flowers, lemon and orange zest, as well as honeysuckle. On the palate, it has a noticeable chewiness

and a full mouthfeel, while the finish is surprisingly long for a white blend. You can pair this one with any grilled white meat, especially marinated chicken or Cornish Hen, as well as Pork loin.

While it’s not usually on the top of anyone’s list, a bottle of chilled Riesling can be a nice accompaniment for ham and salty vegetables.

2024 Chateau Ste. Michelle, Finger Lakes Riesling, New York, ($21.99), has a crisp, balanced sweetness that can turn tangy with fruites de mare, especially lobster and soft-shell crab. Grilled tails with this wine will make any meal that much more special.

If your occasion is special, make sure the wine is, too. Something bubbly usually fits the bill and the choices are many. One of my favorites is Schramsberg Sparkling wine ($21.99). Its effervescence is distinctive, but not overwhelming; the nose has notes of citrus and jasmine, while the finish is longer than many other sparklers.

Chateau St. Cloud, Cold Creek Vineyard, Pinot Noir, ($29.99). This is a complex, layered wine. Notes of cherries, blackberries, caramel and earth tones almost smother your pal-

ate; the finish is long and multi flavored. This one is not only good with the usual items, but especially good with ham, pork loin or bratwurst.

Eroica Riesling, Clos du Bois/ Dr. Loosen, ($22.99). This Riesling, a wine whose style is an homage to Dr. Loosen, captures a great balance of sweetness and body. Notes of mountain flowers, turmeric and peppermint on the nose give way to a pleasant finish. Best with poultry and pork dishes.

If you’re out on the grill this week, try some A.J. Phelps Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa, California, ($55.99). This isn’t just another Cab. It’s full of structure, balance and distinctive notes and aromas. I’d suggest letting this one breathe for 30-45 minutes. Then just sip. Also, if it’s steaks on your grill, be sure to have a glass of this in your hand.

Lastly, I’d like to mention just one of the many great wines being produced in the country of South Africa. This country’s winemakers continue to refine many varieties, especially Chenin Blanc. Beaumont Chenin Blanc,2023, ($23.99), is crisp and refreshing. Notes of orange blossoms and mountain flowers on the

nose lead to a palate that’s balanced but layered. This one is especially good with any kind of salad as well as Asian cuisine. This wine is so easy drinking that I suggest you have more than one on hand.

Also from South Africa is a great tasting Pinotage. Stellenbosch-Conde Pinotage, 2020 ($26.99). While it’s hard to find a bad Pinotage, this one impresses because of its array of notes on the nose, distinctive mouthfeel on the palate and a finish that’s more like a good Bordeaux than anything else. Try this one with a Bolognese, Filet Mignon or even a Beijing Duck. They’ll all be better with this one.

We hope you and yours have a safe and Happy Mother’s Day!

Skin Cancer Prevention Starts Early – And Matters At Every Age

Skin cancer prevention is important for every person at every age. Whether it’s a kid on the playground, a teen on the sports field or an adult working in the yard, we all need to take steps to protect our skin from the sun. May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month—a time to learn about this disease, how to prevent it and detect it early for better outcomes.

Despite being one of the most preventable cancers, skin cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in the United States. Although the exact number is unknown, it is estimated that more than five million people in the United States are diagnosed with the more common types of skin cancer—either basal cell or squamous cell carcinoma—each year. An estimated 112,000 U.S. adults will be diagnosed with melanoma, the deadliest type of skin cancer, in 2026. In Massachusetts alone, an estimated

1,370 will be diagnosed with melanoma this year.

Anyone, regardless of skin color, may develop skin cancer. Although skin cancers are less common in people with darker skin, when they occur, they are often diagnosed at more advanced stages when they are harder to treat.

Fortunately, you can take steps to reduce your risk of skin cancer. Most cases are caused by exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. Wear clothing, hats and sunglasses that block UV rays, and apply broad spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher daily—even on cloudy days. If you can, stay out of the sun when the UV rays are most intense (generally between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.). Indoor tanning is not safe and should be avoided.

It’s a good idea to have a health care provider examine your skin every year. When found early, most

skin cancers can be treated successfully. Unfortunately, more than 50% of U.S. adults are not up to date or are unsure if they are up to date on their skin cancer check, according to the Prevent Cancer Foundation’s 2026 Early Detection Survey. If this is you, make an appointment with your health care provider or dermatologist today.

You should also check your own skin monthly to look for possible signs of skin cancer. Use the ABCDEs of skin cancer to help you when examining your skin for suspicious moles:

• Asymmetry

• Border irregularity

• Color that is not uniform

• Diameter greater than 6mm

• Evolving, size, shape or color

See a health care provider if you notice any changes in size, shape or elevation of a mole, or any new symptoms such as bleeding, itching or crusting.

Learn more at www.preventcancer. org/skin.

Margaret Lynch is the spouse of Rep. Stephen Lynch and a member of the Prevent Cancer Foundation’s Congressional Families® Program.

A Tribute For Mother’s Day

“Hundreds of dewdrops to greet the dawn, Hundreds of bees in the purple clover, Hundreds of butterflies on the lawn, But only one mother the whole world over.”

— George Cooper

State Representative ~ David Biele 4th Suffolk District (paid for by the committee to elect David Biele) A Mother is she Who CAn tAke the Pl ACe of All others but Whose Pl ACe no one else CAn tAke

Celebrating All Moms on Their Special Day, Happy Mother’s Day With A Special Wish To My Mom.

hAPPy Mother’s DAy With A sPeCiAl Wishes to My MoM AnD My Wife

State Representative - David Biele - 4th Suffolk District (paid for by the committee to

MAYOR WU APPOINTS DIANA FERNANDEZ BIBEAU AS NEW COMMISSIONER OF PARKS AND RECREATION AND DEPUTY CHIEF OF OPEN SPACE

Mayor Michelle Wu today announced the appointment of Diana Fernandez Bibeau as the new Commissioner of Parks and Recreation and Deputy Chief of Open Space. Fernandez Bibeau will begin serving in her new role on June 1. Fernandez Bibeau, who has served as Boston’s Deputy Chief of Urban Design for the Planning Department since 2022, brings over 15 years of

experience in the private and public sectors to the position, including a substantial design portfolio to advance equity, sustainability, and resilience through Boston’s built environment. Prior to joining the Wu administration, she practiced landscape architecture and design at Sasaki for over seven years, working on several significant projects, including the Frederick Douglas Memorial in Roxbury and coastal resiliency efforts in Charlestown and East Boston, and led large parks projects across the country, such as the Port of Los Angeles Wilmington Waterfront. She will also be making history as the first Latina to serve as Commissioner of the Boston Parks and Recreation Department, responsible for leading over 300 full-time staff and the stewardship and programming of 2,200 acres of permanently protected open space.

As Deputy Chief of Open Space, a new leadership position in the City of Boston, Fernandez Bibeau will serve as the primary strategic convener for open space policy, facilitating alignment across City cabinets, departments, and external stakeholders. Bridging city, state, federal, and private entities, this new role will ensure a cohesive and

equitable vision for Boston’s public realm. For years, the City of Boston has invested in improving the maintenance, infrastructure, and programming of its parks. Fernandez Bibeau will build on this foundational work, using open spaces to build local resilience against climate change and meet the recreation and programming needs of Boston’s diverse communities.

“Parks are my passion. As an immigrant, they were the first spaces where I felt welcome, sparking my dream to become a landscape architect,” said Diana Fernandez Bibeau. “I’m eager to build on the Parks Department’s legacy of excellence by bringing a renewed perspective to how we grow, protect, and program our parks. I look forward to delivering on Mayor Wu’s vision—ensuring Boston’s public spaces are exceptional, safe, and welcoming for everyone.”

Fernandez Bibeau brings a unique perspective to her work, deeply informed by a lifetime of navigating complex transitions. From her early childhood immigration from the Dominican Republic to the fierce determination required to balance young motherhood with her education, her

trajectory is defined by profound resilience. She channeled this work ethic into her studies—earning a degree in Landscape Architecture from Temple University—and into her career and academic scholarship.

Fernandez Bibeau is a proven thinker, collaborator and leader, who works seamlessly with architects, planners, urban designers, ecologists and civil engineers on the design of equitable and sustainable places. She writes and lectures on landscape architecture, urban design, and equity. Her work has been published and nationally recognized through the Urban Land Institute (ULI), American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA), Society for College and University Planning (SCUP), American Institute of Architects (AIA), and the American Planning Association (APA). She has also been awarded the 2019-2020 LAF Fellowship in leadership and innovation, honored with the Emerging Professional Medal in 2020 and named a 30 under 30 Leader for Temple University.

She resides in West Roxbury and is a proud mother of three, a Boston Public Schools parent, and an avid gardener with her husband, Devin Bibeau.

MAYOR MICHELLE WU APPOINTS MARCELA DWORK AS PRESS SECRETARY

Photo credit: Matt Stone Photography

Mayor Michelle Wu today announced the appointment of Marcela Dwork as Press Secretary. Dwork will begin serving in her role on May 4, 2026, and will lead the Mayor’s Press Office.

“I’m thrilled to welcome Marcela to our team,” said Mayor Michelle Wu. “Her career has been marked by a commitment to community and passion for sharing the stories that drive our city. I look forward to her leadership of our Press Office and its critical role in ensuring information about City services and initiatives is easily accessible to all members of our community. I’m excited to work alongside Marcela as we continue to engage Boston’s diverse, vibrant neighborhoods and make Boston a home for everyone.”

Dwork is a strategic communications professional with experience across public, nonprofit, and media sectors. She most recently served as an Account Director at Denterlein, a Boston-based strategic communications and public relations agency. Her previous roles include Press Secretary for Middlesex District Attorney Marian Ryan, Development Associate at the John F. Kennedy Library Foundation, and on-air reporter for Univision Boston.

“I am excited to return to public service in this role and work alongside Mayor Wu to connect residents across neighborhoods,” said Marcela Dwork, Incoming Press Secretary. “As a bilingual communicator, I also look forward to helping ensure that the City’s diverse communities

receive timely, accurate information and stay connected to City Hall initiatives.

Originally from Bucaramanga, Colombia, Dwork immigrated to the United States at age 22. She holds a bachelor’s degree in communications from Universidad Autónoma de Bucaramanga.

As Press Secretary, Dwork will serve as a liaison between the Mayor’s Office and members of the media, communicating the Mayor’s priorities through press conferences, interviews, public events, and press materials. The Press Office works closely with speechwriting, digital, and photography teams to deliver a coordinated message that reflects the Wu administration’s vision and commitment to transparency and public trust.

Boston, Home to Award Winning Tap Water, Celebrates National Drinking Water Week May 3 - 9

During Drinking Water Week, May 3 – 9, Boston will shine a spotlight on the city’s critical drinking water infrastructure and highlight the dedicated workers and community investment required to provide safe and reliable water service. Boston Water and Sewer Commission is also using the occasion to celebrate our product’s recent selection as New England’s Best Tasting Tap Water while looking forward to the national competition in June.

(Click here to view a video showing how BWSC is rising to meet the challenges of sustaining our city’s drinking water excellence: https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=ZlySnkpAG4Y )

Drinking water underpins the health and economic vitality of communities, and keeping water systems reliable is a round-the-clock commitment and significant expense. Water utilities must renew aging infrastruc-

ture, protect source water, prepare for climate and security risks – all while continuing to deliver high quality, reliable water every day.

According to a new report by the American Water Works Association (AWWA), U.S. drinking water infrastructure and other critical needs will require $2.1 - $2.4 trillion over the next 25 years, testing the limits of water affordability in many places.

SEWAGE BACKUPS ARE PREVENTABLE

No Valve = No Protection

If your home has plumbing fixtures in the basement, like a toilet or sink, a backwater valve will prevent sewage from flowing into your home during heavy rains or sewer backups.

Maintenance Matters!

Without a properly installed and maintained valve your basement is vulnerable to costly and hazardous sewage backups.

Simple Maintenance Requirements:

Inspect regularly, especially before storms. Wear protective gloves and eyewear. Remove debris from valve seat and flapper with water and gentle scrubbing.

Fortunately, Boston Water and Sewer Commission has long been a leader investing in and strengthening the BWSC water system that serves over a million residents and visitors daily. Since being established by the Legislature nearly 50 years ago, BWSC has spent hundreds of millions of dollars modernizing its water infrastructure. John P. Sullivan, BWSC Chief Engineer and Director Emeritus, The Association of Municipal Water Agencies, states “Boston owes its award-winning drinking water in part to a capital improvement plan that prioritizes innovation and continuous improvement in maintaining the city’s infrastructure.”

BWSC also partners with the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority, and additional factors that have led to Boston’s being recognized for superior tap water (also “Best of the Best” National Winner 2014) include:

• Pure, protected sources (Quabbin

and Wachusett Reservoirs)

• Robust quality testing

• Modern treatment facilities

• Comprehensive infrastructure maintenance and improvement

BWSC Executive Director Henry Vitale said, “Among all the great attributes of Boston’s tap water – its outstanding taste, quality and purity – one other benefit we’re especially proud of is the fact that Boston water costs about 2 cents a gallon!” Vitale continued, “Compare that to the price of bottled water, which is significantly more expensive.”

To celebrate Drinking Water Week, water utilities, water organizations, government entities, environmental advocates, schools, and others throughout North America will help children and consumers of all ages understand how water is protected, cleaned, and delivered throughout their communities. Water utilities

continued on page 12

St. Peter Academy

Kindergarten Open House Friday May 15, 2026

9:00 am – 10:00 am

St. Peter Academy • 371 West Fourth Street • South Boston, MA 02127

On Friday, May 15, 2026 at 9:00 am to 10:00 am. St. Peter Academy will be hosting a Kindergarten Open House, come meet the team behind the best education your child can receive. This team works collaboratively to ensure that the students meet and exceed the standard expectations. They ensure that the whole child is developing through direct instruction along with play and social/emotional development. The students at St. Peter Academy often exceed the standards that are set for the direct instruction. Our students work on social/emotional development through the Second Step Program. This coupled with deliberate and goal-oriented play gives each student a strong grounding in learning, peer engagement along with physical movement to build a strong

foundation and well-rounded child.

Ms. Carmen Pepin has been at St. Peter Academy since 2017. She started off as a Toddler Teacher before finding her niche in PreK. Ms. Carmen is also in charge of the Early Education Curriculum. She is bilingual and ensures her students have Spanish exposure daily. She received her bachelor’s degree from the University of Boston.

Ms. Brittney Gates was born, raised, and still resides in South Boston. She is a St. Peter Academy Alum. Brittney began working at St. Peter Academy in 2021 in the extended day program. She is currently an assistant teacher in PreK and also the Supervisor of Student and Community Engagement. She loves working with children and couldn’t imagine working anywhere else other than St. Peter Academy.

continued from page 11

and others mark the occasion by hosting engaging events like educational fairs, school presentations, facility tours, and more.

Boston is home to New England’s oldest and largest water, sewer and storm water systems, which are owned, maintained and operated by Boston Water and Sewer Commission (BWSC). Established in 1977, BWSC provides

Ms. Brittney is currently working on furthering her education through teaching classes at Quincy College.

Ms. Jeanmarie Stewart was born and raised in South Boston. She currently resides in Weymouth. She has a Bachelor’s and Master’s in Education from Wheelock College. She joined St. Peter Academy in 2020 as a Pre-K Teacher. In 2024, she joined the Elementary Division as the K1 Teacher. Before joining St. Peter Academy, she worked in the Early Education field as an assistant teacher and then spent 16 years as a K2 teacher.

Mrs. Laura Hesek has been a part of an educational system for many years. She has a variety of experiences that lend themselves to her classroom. She received her Master’s in Education from Lesley College, her BA from University of Maine and an AA from Cazenovia College. She has worked in the classroom as a teacher, paraprofessional, reading interventionist, reading support and substitute teacher. Her classrooms have included grades PK-12, along with working as an in-home tutor through the no child left behind act. She has taught

portable water and sewer services to more than one million people per day. BWSC is also the leading organizer of We Are All Connected, a campaign to raise public awareness about the importance of protecting and preserving Boston’s waterways. For more information please visit: www.bwsc.org.

About Drinking Water Week

For several decades, the American Water

for The Peace Corps in West Africa, AmeriCorps here in Boston and for a small independent school in the Marshall Islands.

St. Peter Academy is now accepting applications for the 20262027 school year. There are limited spots available for the Toddler Program. The Toddler Program is on a rolling monthly enrollment. St. Peter Academy is an independent, community-based private school and serves students from ages 15 months through grade 6. SPA is currently accepting applications for the limited spaces available in the year-round toddler program (beginning at age 15 months) and for students in Pre-K (School Year and Full Year Programs), Kindergarten and grades 1-6. Financial Aid Available. Two Scholarships will be offered this year for applicants for Grades 1 through 6. You may request scholarship information from the Front Office (spa@stpeteracademy.com). Appointments for individual tours can be made by contacting Maria Blasi, at 617-268-0750 or by emailing spa@StPeterAcademy.com.

Works Association (AWWA) and its members have celebrated Drinking Water Week, a unique opportunity for both water professionals and the communities they serve to join together in recognizing the vital role water plays in daily lives. Free materials for download and additional information about Drinking Water Week are available on the Drinking Water Week webpage.

Parish News

Celebrating First Holy Communion

Congratulations to all our second graders at South Boston Catholic Academy and in the Parish Religious Education Program on making their First Holy Commu-

nion that was celebrated on Saturday, May 2, 2026, at Gate of Heaven Church. The Celebrants at this Mass were Reverend Robert Casey, our Pastor, Reverend Peter Shirripa, our

Parochial Vicar, and Monsignor Liam Bergin, Priest Assistant in Residence, along with Abbot Mark Cooper, OSB, from St. Anselm Abbey and Reverend Richard Fitzgerald from St. Columbkille in Brighton who had family members making their First Holy Communion at this Mass. Following the 10:30 Mass at St. Brigid Church on Sunday, May 3, the children who made their First Holy Communion participated and led us in the May

Procession in honor of our Blessed Mother Mary. Wishing all mothers a Very Happy Mother’s Day!

A special Thank you to the 2nd grade teachers Ms. Courtney Sudhalter, Ms. Meghan Leslie, Ms. Ciara Rushe and Ms. Kerry Buckley and Ms. Ann Marie Buckley for helping the children prepare for their First Holy Communion. May God Bless all these wonderful boys and girls and their families!