What's The Plan When This Is Over?: The HUB

The HUB is a rundown of the stories people in Boston are talking about. Patch publishes the HUB every weekday.

Good morning, Boston! Today is Friday, May 21. We're talking about Dennis White's fight in court, Boston's first-in-the-state move and listening to the vroomers.

But first...

It's time to stop fantasizing about what you're gonna do post-COVID restrictions and start planning to do it.

As you know, almost all mask mandate, business restrictions and gathering/capacity limits are being lifted Saturday, May 29. That's eight days away — less than 192 hours away, depending on when you're reading this.

So, what will you be doing?

Spencer Buell has some options at Boston Magazine. I'm actually taking advantage of one of them — you'll find me getting 2021's most pampered haircut/beard trim in Melrose.

Whatever you're doing, you'll want to see if you can make reservations. There's a chance of showers over Memorial Day weekend, but it's also going to be in the high 70s. People are going to be letting out a year's worth of pent-up partying, lunching, golfing — whatever.

The holiday weekend will be one of remembrance. But it's also going to be one of celebration. You've waited more than 15 months for this. Go crazy, folks.

Check it out

The Dennis White mess ended up in court yesterday. White, who is fighting his termination by Acting Mayor Kim Janey over decades-old domestic violence allegations, is having his name dragged through the mud and being treated unfairly, his attorney argued. The city's attorney said Janey is well within her rights to dump White. And here's another twist: White's attorney said it's important to determine whether former Mayor Marty Walsh knew of the allegations against his client, because the city can't fire White for something it already knew. There's a lot going on here — check out Saraya Wintersmith's clear account at GBH.

Boston could be the first city in Massachusetts to ask residents to allow the City Council to change budget appropriations. The Council yesterday approved a ballot question that would give it greater control and flexibility over the budget — not overspending it, but transfering funds without needing the mayor's request. The Boston Globe's Danny McDonald has the details on the move.

They just want to ride, baby! There's been a lot of hulabaloo lately about dirt bikes, ATVs and other types of high-powered — and loud — vehicles moving through Boston as the weather warms. I'm one of those people who just can't stand the sound of revving engines; I've never seen the appeal to it. But there are some who do, and that's perfectly fair. Boston Magazine talked with one of the riders, a 19-year-old YouTuber known as "Yung Remy," about his side of the story.

What I'm reading today: Normally when one of the people you read declares his battle with a rare advanced cancer, it's a serious downer. And this story from The Ringer's Jonathan Tjarks is, obviously. But there's also something very reflective, honest and hopeful about it. I'll be saying a prayer for Jonathan tonight.

Weather

The National Weather Service says: During the day — Mostly sunny, with a high near 78. South wind 5 to 9 mph. At night — A slight chance of showers. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 57. Southwest wind 7 to 9 mph. Chance of precipitation is 20%.

Have a swell Friday.

You can email me at mike.carraggi@patch.com and follow me @PatchCarraggi.