THURSDAY, April 15, 2021

Published every Thursday Serving Back Bay - South End - Fenway - Kenmore State holds public hearing for Shattuck Campus proposal

By Lauren Bennett portive housing that contributes positively to health outcomes, On April 13, a public hearing and contributes to the supply of was hosted by the state’s Division supportive housing in the region. of Capital Asset Management DCAMM project manager and Maintenance (DCAMM) to Loryn Sheffner explained some present the project proposal for of these goals further at the the Shattuck Hospital campus on public hearing, saying that they Morton St. in Jamaica Plain, and include a “minimum” of 75 to to allow for public comment on 100 supportive housing units, the proposal. as well as “integrated health ser- The Shattuck Hospital plans vices including both services cur- to move to the Newtown Pavil- rently offered on the site and new ion in the South End in 2024, types of services/programs cited and throughout a several year in the Vision Plan,” according to process, the community has been With “activity” going on in the background, Newmarket Business Association Director Sue Sullivan said this a slide presented. week at a press conference that she and some others in the community no longer support the re-opening of outspoken about what should be The state is also looking at the Comfort Station on Atkinson Street. This butts up against a call by neighbors in Worcester Square and done with the campus site. The “other allowable public health Blackstone/Franklin to re-open the Station as soon as possible. Sullivan said it has become an open air drug proposed plan includes turning uses pursuant to deed restric- market, and a troubling situation is becoming normalized. the existing 13 acre campus into tion,” the slide stated. an area for supportive housing, Sheffner said that the team integrative health care, and other anticipates a “phased redevelop- Businesses, some community members services. ment” of the site. Many residents and organi- “This project only pertains to say ‘no’ to Comfort Station in South End zations have said they would the Morton St. site,” she said, and Roxbury residents made a Worcester Square and Black- like to see the existing Shattuck and addressed the suggested use Situation cannot be public call to City officials not stone/Franklin, who had called site be returned to parkland for of the MBTA Arborway Yard normalized, leaders say to reopen the Comfort Station for the City to immediately Franklin Park and have suggest- for these services that has been on Atkinson Street and to make re-open the Comfort Station on ed that these services be sited at brought up several times in the By Seth Daniel a drastic change to the “open air Atkinson Street last week. The the MBTA’s Arborway bus yard community. While a smattering of individ- drug market” that exists in the butting of heads comes also as instead, while others expressed “Our discussions with the uals appeared to be using intra- area. many areas of the South End that they feel these services are MBTA have indicated that this venous drugs on the sidewalk, a That call came in direct oppo- that have been inundated with needed as soon as possible and is not an option at this time, and group of business owners from sition to leaders in other parts agree with the plan as proposed. we are moving ahead with this Newmarket and some South End of the South End, most notably As previously reported by the project at this site,” she said. (Comfort Station, Pg. 11) In a Request for Proposals Sun, the state has four goals for (RFP) for the site, DCAMM the proposed project, including: “will include all of these ele- •Provide stable health care ments” of the proposal, “includ- Five of six mayoral candidates take and housing options for under- ing team qualifications,” Sheff- served populations, including the ner said, and will look at things chronically homeless; like “responsiveness to the pro- Nomination Papers on Day 1 •Provide integrated, ‘per- gram and design goals, financial Early poll shows half of late on Tuesday was not returned. included Michael Bianchi of son-centered’ behavioral and feasibility,” and the schedule for voters undecided, Wu The Boston Election Depart- Brighton; Robert Cappucci of physical health care and housing implementation. ment showed that 11 people had East Boston; Joao DePina of systems; “The RFP will seek a single with highest favorability taken out papers for the mayoral Dorchester; Roy Owens Sr. of •Provide substance use dis- master developer,” she said— campaign, including the declared Roxbury; Richard Spagnuolo of order (SUD) and mental health which could either be a sole By Seth Daniel candidates John Barros, Council- the North End; and Patrick Wil- services that play a critical role in developer or a partnership—“to Five of the six declared candi- or Andrea Campbell, Councilor liams of Dorchester. regional public health and treat- propose a redevelopment plan dates for Mayor of Boston took Annissa Essaibi George, State Candidates for mayor and ment systems; out their Nomination Papers on Rep. Jon Santiago, and Council- City Council have until May 11 (Shattuck Campus, Pg. 5) •Provide safe, stable and sup- the first day of their availabil- or Michelle Wu. to get their Nomination Papers, ity, April 13, with only Acting Janey is the only other major though many do it on the very Mayor Kim Janey still not yet candidate that has declared, but first day, and must file them by SUMMER IN THE CITY taking papers. the only one as of Wednesday the end of business on May 18. GUIDE - PAGE 8 An inquiry to her campaign morning not to take out papers. Others taking out papers (Nomination Papers, Pg. 10) PAGE 2 THE BOSTON SUN April 15, 2021 editorial

NUMB TO THE NUMBERS Guest Op-Ed With just about all of the states now reopening their economies, the conventional wisdom among most Americans is that the worst Mask wearing in America days of the coronavirus are behind us. Dr. Glenn Mollette socialize may ask that you wear I’ve spoken in churches and Yet the reality is that hundreds of Americans continue to die and a mask. Of course, you are free to groups where people would tens of thousands more are contracting the disease each and every Like most everyone else, I’m to not patronize those businesses, come up and shake my hand and day. tired of wearing a mask. forsake religious assembly and then say, “Well, I’ve been sick, This past Monday, April 12, for example, the New York Times Every time I go to the grocery, not hang out with certain people. but I came anyway.” They acted -- which gets its data from Johns Hopkins University -- reported that a restaurant, church, or work I You are free to go maskless like they should have received a 476 Americans died from the virus and that there were 72,286 new have to put on a mask. Not long if you want to. However, you trophy for coming and contam- cases on that day. ago, if we wore a mask into a aren’t free to be in someone inating everyone. In reality, their bank or convenience store, the else’s face without a mask if actions were inconsiderate of Admittedly, these numbers pale in comparison to the 3000 Amer- attendants would be alarmed they don’t want you there with- everyone else’s health. icans who were dying and the 300,000 new cases that were being and call 911. Today if we don’t out one. There are many plac- State governments may reported each day at the pandemic’s height this past winter. wear one, we are in trouble and es where you aren’t allowed to remove mask mandates. How- But even these lower daily figures still are huge, rivaling the num- not welcomed. smoke. There are some business- ever, keep in mind that busi- bers that were in evidence last spring and summer. A lot of people have died from es that will not allow your pet. ness owners still have the right Yet despite the ongoing tragedies of friends and family members Covid-19 and thus I understand They have the freedom to refuse to require masks. Churches still across the country who are succumbing to the pandemic, there has masks are important in this pan- you service and you have the have the right to require masks. been a complacency developing among most Americans about the demic era. I don’t want a disease. freedom to go somewhere else. You don’t have to let anyone in virus. I have had two Pfizer shots and This is America. your home without a mask if you I wear a mask most every place We’ve all been to the funeral choose. To be sure, all of us are suffering from virus fatigue, attributable I go. home around sick people. A dear We have freedom in America to the quarantining, restrictions, and omnipresent fear of catching the Is it our American, God given friend of mine eulogized a funer- to make choices - all of us. disease. right to take off our masks? al in late November. Two peo- Glenn Mollette is the publish- In addition, with the vaccine rollout proceeding ahead of projec- While we are free to take off our ple were in attendance who had er of Newburgh Press, Liberty tions, most of us believe that the worst is behind us. masks, others are free to ask us Covid-19. He caught the virus Torch and various other pub- And while that may be true, we still have a rough road ahead. With to put them on. The business and was dead by mid-Decem- lishing imprints; a national col- the announcement earlier this week that the one-and-done Johnson owner has the freedom to require ber. He spent his last two weeks umnist – American Issues and & Johnson vaccine is linked to serious side-effects in a tiny number a mask. The airlines have the of life isolated in intensive care. Common Sense opinions, anal- of recipients, the national vaccination program will be facing a slow- freedom to require masks. The He meant well in trying to help ysis, stories and features appear religious assembly has the free- out a family in their time of grief. each week In over 500 newspa- down. dom to require you to wear a It cost him his life. He had been pers, websites and blogs across More ominously, the so-called United Kingdom variant of the virus mask. People with whom you very active and healthy. the United States. now is the dominant case-type in the U.S. -- and that variant has been shown to be 60% more contagious AND 67 percent more deadly. Even more worrisome, the variants that have been attributable to Brazil and South Africa are thought to be more resistant to vaccine-ef- Gov. Baker provides vaccination update; addresses pause on J&J ficacy AND have been shown to reinfect persons who previously had By Lauren Bennett who recently received the John- fie station, and even Wally the caught the disease. son & Johnson vaccine and Green Monster will make an The arithmetic is this: More Americans still are dying each and Governor Charlie Baker held have “severe symptoms” such appearance. every week from the coronavirus than were killed on 9/11. Let that a press conference on April 14, as severe abdominal pain or leg “The goal is to encourage sink in for a moment. where he provided an update on pain to reach out to their health- more people to come to Boston For those of us who like to compare the fight against COVID-19 vaccination in the state as well as care provider. to get vaccinated with family and Every Massachusetts resident neighbors,” Baker said. to a war, the proper analogy to WWII is this: We may have won the addressed the recent recommen- over the age of 16 will become With Phase 3 of the vaccina- war in Europe (V-E Day was on May 8), but American troops still dation by the CDC and the FDA to pause the administration of eligible for the vaccine beginning tion plan beginning on Monday, were fighting and dying in the Pacific in epic battles on Iwo Jima and the Johnson & Johnson vaccine. Monday, April 19, which Baker an additional 1.7 million people Okinawa. Baker reported that as of Tues- said is a “significant milestone in will be eligible statewide. To paraphrase Winston Churchill, we are not at the end of this day, there were 1400 new cases our mission to vaccinate eligible He said that residents should pandemic and, in view of the huge numbers we are seeing nationwide, of COVID-19 in the state, 714 residents and bring this pandem- “expect it may take several we may not even be at the beginning of the end. people were hospitalized with the ic to a close.” weeks to book an appointment,” Although we may be at the end of the beginning, it is premature to virus, and 165 were in the ICU. Baker then announced that but residents can still preregister let our guard (which is to say, our masks) down. He also said that so far, there from April 19 through April 25, for a vaccine at one of the state’s there will be “Red Sox Week” mass vaccination locations, as The reality that we all must acknowledge is this: We still have a have been more than 4.6 million at the Hynes Convention Center well as six regional collaborative long way to go before we can declare victory over COVID-19. total doses of the COVID-19 vaccine distributed statewide, mass vaccination location, where providers that have been added. and the state is “on track to fully up to 20,000 first doses will be “Millions of people across vaccinate 2.1 million residents reserved for residents from com- the country have been vaccinat- this week.” munities that are “disproportion- ed,” Baker said, who received his THE BOSTON SUN Baker said that “we contin- ately affected by COVID-19,” he first dose of the Pfizer vaccine on ue to be a national leader with said. April 6. He said that the state’s partner “It’s critical for all of us to President/Editor: Stephen Quigley respect to getting residents vac- cinated.” organizations have been “work- take advantage of the opportu- Marketing Director: Debra DiGregorio He then spoke about the pause ing hard to get more people nity when we have it,” he said, on the Johnson & Johnson vac- and households out to get their adding that “we can’t let down ([email protected]) cine after six cases of a “seri- shots.” our guard.” He said that peo- Red Sox Week at the Hynes ple still need to follow all of the Art Directors: Kane DiMasso-Scott, Scott Yates ous medical condition” were reported in individuals who had will offer a completely bilingual COVID protocols and guidance. Reporters: Seth Daniel, [email protected] received that vaccine. experience, with Spanish speak- “When you’re eligible, please Baker advised any residents ing staff and volunteers, “Red sign up and get vaccinated,” Lauren Bennett, [email protected] Sox themed attractions,” a sel- Baker said. April 15, 2021 THE BOSTON SUN PAGE 3

Boston Harbor Fort Point

Ready for More SEE BOSTON WITH NEW EYES AT ALLINCLUSIVEBOS.COM PAGE 4 THE BOSTON SUN April 15, 2021

FOSEL TO HOST BBAC subcommittee hears latest rendition VIRTUAL BOOK DISCUSSION of proposed building at 149 Newbury St. WITH AUTHOR

By Lauren Bennett the designs featured the entry on ion,” it’s “nice to have a level of come leaps and bounds from the corner, while others placed articulation.” the first time you presented it to A subcommittee of the Back it on either Newbury or Dart- Chris Jones of engineering us.” He said that in his opinion, Bay Architectural Commission mouth Streets instead. firm IBI Group talked about the team is “close to being done (BBAC) met virtually on April 12 Aside from the concerns about the public realm portion of the here.” to discuss the proposed building too much glass, Pandya said project, saying that they want He added that “redirecting the at 149 Newbury St., which will that other feedback from last to “delineate between the public entryway to either street is prob- sit on the corner of Newbury and year included looking more at and the private space,” as well as ably the right thing to do,” and Dartmouth Streets. the corner, reviewing brick col- wanted to understand “the fabric he also said he likes the staggered The proposed building is five ors, looking at the brick detail of Newbury St. today.” bay window design as it “breaks stories tall and will offer about along the facades on Newbury He talked about the existing up the monotony.” Weintraub 17,500 square feet of retail space and Dartmouth Streets, looking concrete sidewalk on Newbury also said that he likes the thick- April is Sexual Violence and about 26,000 square feet at the scale and proportions of St., as well as the proposed brick er cornice and the taller, grander Awareness month and the of office space, according to the the office windows, and taking a promenade and granite threshold. entry for the office space. South End Writes series from Boston Planning and Develop- look at alternatives for the pro- There is also a proposed cus- He then asked abut the brick the Friends of the South End ment Agency (BPDA). posed floating brick piers. tom wood and steel base bench Library (FOSEL) is pleased to color, to which Pandya said that host Tanya Selvaratnam, who This project last came before Pandya said that moving to the that allows for seating on both “as of right now, there’s real- will discuss her new book, the BBAC early last year, and the alley, the paving on the ground sides and is “meant to be as flex- ly just one brick.” He said “we ‘Assume Nothing: A Story of team said they have been work- will be brick, the trash will be ible as possible,” and “begins to don’t want it to necessarily blend Intimate Violence.’ In ‘Assume ing on refining the design based located farther away, and there provide some verticality as we Nothing,’ Selvaratnam bravely with the abutters, but it will fit recounts the intimate abuse she on comments and feedback will also be a loading area as well get to the corner and defines that within the context of the other suffered while in a relationship received from various organiza- as a bike area with some land- edge,” Pandya said. buildings in the area. with former New York State tions. scaping. There is also an “oppor- “We know we have to incor- “What defines the Back Bay AG Eric Schneiderman and Architect Haril Pandya went tunity” for a flowering tree to be porate bike parking ion the site examines domestic violence cri- historically are buildings with ses. The virtual event is accessi- over the design changes, starting planted in the alley area, he said. as well as find a home for Blue- energy and idiosyncrasies,” said ble for free on Zoom. The event with the overall building enve- “We also felt that it was bikes,” he added. Commissioner David Eisen. will take place on a new date, lope. The originally proposed important to turn one bay into Pandya then talked about the “You started out this project April 27, at 7 p.m. design featured a lot of glass, and the alley,” Pandya said. interior floor plans of the build- with some very unresolved but after receiving several comments, He then talked about the fifth ing, adding that they do not yet interesting ideas,” he said. “To He said he likes the entrance more brick has been added to the floor cornice, saying that the know what tenants would go in me, it is a bit unfortunate that on the side rather than on the facade. team “lost a lot of the articula- the building. those haven’t been developed corner, and prefers the more He said that early last year, tion to simplify it,” and now just “I want to applaud the design and accepted.” open two story entrance. “I like there were several different “cor- includes “a simple band.” team,” said Commissioner Rob- He said he believes the bays the overhang,” he said, adding ner treatments” where some of He said in his “personal opin- ert Weintraub. “This project has are “important elements” while that “you see that as you go up walking down the street. the street. I do think there’s a lot “It is a very handsome build- of light coming out of it.” Virtual Community Meeting ing,” said BBAC Chair Kathy Sue Prindle of the Neighbor- Connor. “I do, however, feel hood Association of the Back that’s such an important corner.” Bay (NABB) said that she believes Roxbury Strategic Master Plan Oversight Committee She said that the “animation you Pandya has “done a fabulous job started out with…certainly made Zoom Link: bit.ly/May2021RSMPOC of dealing with comments.” She Monday, May 3 a statement from all angles.” 6:00 PM - 7:45 PM Toll Free: (833) 568 - 8864 also said that the NABB Archi- She said that she recognizes Meeting ID: 161 848 8944 tecture Committee “had brought that it’s “been reduced dramati- Event Description up the cornice issue,” and “I cally based on design by commit- The Roxbury Strategic Master Plan Oversight Committee was developed to oversee projects that fall under the think there should be a hierar- Roxbury Strategic Master Plan. The committee meets monthly to discuss development and planning in Nubian tee,” but it’s “still an important chy of cornices,” she said. “The Square. All meetings are held on zoom and open to the public. For more information, on how to Join, Engage, and message to have the corner artic- Take Action, please visit the website. lower one maybe fights with the ulated.” Upcoming meetings/Próximas reuniones/Dat pwochen rankont yo se: She added that she believes upper one a little bit.” • May/Mayo/ Me 3 the “alleyway gives it a sense of She also said that while she • June/Junio/Jen 7 presence and importance,” and “loves” the bench, she said she • July/Julio/ Jiyè 12 agrees with other Commissioners has concerns about skateboard- For interpretation services, contact the planner listed below one week before each meeting. that uplighting the brick could be ers using it. Para los servicios de interpretación, comuníquese con el planificador que se indica a continuación una semana Joe Cornish, Director of antes de cada reunión. a positive aspect for the building. Design Review for the Boston Si w bezwen sèvis entèpretasyon, kontakte moun kap planifye a pi ba a, yon semèn anvan chak reyinyon. Commissioner John Christian- Landmarks Commission, said Contact: sen said that he likes the design Kelly Sherman for the building, but would like that there will most likely be one Boston Planning & Development Agency to see a “heavier cornice on the more subcommittee meeting to One City Hall Square, 9th Floor Boston, MA 02201 617.918.5493 | [email protected] corner,” which could be light- address the BBAC’s remaining ened up in other areas. “I think issues and concerns with the bostonplans.org @bostonplans that could work fine,” he said. design, and then it will go before Teresa Polhemus, Executive Director/Secretary “The corner is more important.” the full Commission for a vote. April 15, 2021 THE BOSTON SUN PAGE 5 Long-time ESNA President to step down after 10 years

By Seth Daniel me. It’s been an absolute pleasure •SEBA STROLL COMING to participate as well. It coincides really grown. We did lose a few working with everybody over the IN MAY with the spring cleanup also.” restaurants and a lot of them The long-time president of years. But after 10 years it’s time The South End Business Alli- SEBA has reinvented itself since went on hibernation. Home ser- the Eight Streets Neighborhood for someone new.” ance (SEBA) President Liz Beutel Beutel took over last October, and vices and personal services have Association in the South End, Almond has been an affable announced the organization will even has increased its membership actually grown a lot. People have Michael Almond, announced leader for Eight Streets over the hold the annual South End Stroll through the pandemic by offering done more startups than we’ve Tuesday night that he would be last five years in particular, run- on May 14, 15, and 16 to high- Webinars and help to local busi- seen previously.” stepping down from his leader- ning a very efficient meeting and light the lifestyle of the South nesses. She said they are looking •PETERS PARK ship role after five good years of tackling tough issues. He was End, and bring business to the at businesses in the South End The City is currently resurfac- leading the organization. particularly instrumental in get- numerous stores in the area. now as everyone comes out of the ing the Peters Park tennis courts Prior to that, he was also a ting attention to Watson Park “We have a lot going on,” she pandemic, and it looks like the as promised some time ago, very active vice president for five and other parks in the neighbor- said. “We had a stroll in Decem- neighborhood fared well. and they will be adding lines years. hood – not to mention address- ber and had about 90 business- “We had wondered if we were to accommodate the emerging “I will be stepping down as ing persistent trash and rat issues. es participate. I have more than going to lose a lot of businesses game of Pickle Ball. The Park is president after five years as pres- All of the other officers in the 40 signed up now and I expect in the South End,” she said. “The also expected to get new basket- ident of Eight Streets, and spend- organization will continue to to get 130 to 140 participants South End itself has grown and ball hoops too, and a new tool ing the previous five years as vice serve, and he said he will stay on involved and we want neighbors we’ve added 100 businesses in shed is to be installed by the City president,” he said. “We still until a new president is chosen. and neighborhood associations the South End since 2019. We’ve as well. haven’t decided who will succeed

Shattuck Campus (from pg. 1) and lead implementation.” Fox said that the South End ton’s Emerald Necklace is a very housing, the opportunity to Brown and indigenous commu- She said that after approval community supports the propos- important park system for the provide space for the MBTA’s nities that surround the park.” from the state’s Asset Manage- al as is. City of Boston.” She also said electric bus fleet, and continued He said believes affordable and ment Board (AMB), the RFP will Kathy Brown of the Boston that there is “an important set of direct access to Franklin Park,” supportive housing is much need- be issued and “advertised for no Tenant Coalition was a part of needs” that this proposal seeks Mauney Brodek said in a state- ed, and he supports the project as less than three months,” accord- the Citizen’s Advisory Board for to fulfill, “and we must find a ment. proposed. ing to a slide presented. the Shattuck planning process, location,” as she does not believe Former governors Bill Weld Teronda Ellis, CEO of the The state will then review the and said that there is an “unbe- Franklin Park is the best location and Michael Dukakis also sup- Jamaica Plain Neighborhood proposals and choose a “private/ lievable housing crisis” that has for them. ported the use of the MBTA Development Corporation, said non-profit development partner/ been made worse, and there is a She and others support the Arborway Yard for these ser- that “we have to remember service provider” which will then great need for emergency shelter use of the Arborway Yard site vices, with Dukakis saying that that we’re all kind of working be required to come up with and substance abuse treatment. because it provides easy access to “this is precious parkland.” He towards the same set of princi- project plans and secure approv- “Please move forward on the public transportation, along with said that “the T is a public agen- ples here,” and “understand that als, permits, and financing. plan,” she said. “a more accessible site for sup- cy. It responds to the governor,” our positions need to be flexible. Sheffner said that the state However, many JP and Rox- portive services and the 75–100 adding that “I hope we can work We need to find ways to find hopes to issue the RFP this year, bury residents, like Louis Elisa, housing units for the formerly with you and I hope we can do common ground.” and the final project proposal don’t feel that the Morton St. unhoused, as proposed by Mas- this right.” The written comment period draft can be found at mass.gov/ site is the right place for these sachusetts Health and Human However, resident James for the proposal has been extend- service-details/shattuck-cam- services. Services, eight acres for com- Michel said that he doesn’t ed to April 23, and comments pus-redevelopment-at-mor- Elisa expressed his concern munity-serving development, believe Dukakis or Weld “are in can be sent to loryn.sheffner@ ton-street-proposal. with the siting of these services, residential units and affordable a position to speak for Black and mass.gov. The majority of the hearing as he believes it is “not well was dedicated to allowing the thought out,” and will isolate public to make comments on this people from the rest of the sur- proposal. rounding community. He said Many residents spoke in favor that “no amount of transporta- Virtual Public Workshop of the proposal, saying they tion” to and from the site will be believe these services are crucial of any help. and this plan would provide a “Other than Franklin Park, the PLAN: Nubian Square Parcel P3 Workshop space for them to become a reality. only surrounding for that com- Sue Sullivan, Executive Direc- munity is cemeteries,” he said. Monday, April 26 Zoom Link: bit.ly/P3Workshop3 tor of the Newmarket Business Sarah Freeman, a JP resident 6:00 PM - 7:45 PM Toll Free: (833) 568 - 8864 Association, said that “I truly who is active in the community, Meeting ID: 161 650 6076 think we should stay with the suggested that the MBTA site be vision that is intended,” as the seriously considered. Event Description city is in “desperate” need of “I’m not suggesting displacing Please join members of the PLAN: Nubian Square team on April 26th from 6-7:45pm to discuss Parcel P3. During this workshop we will continue to review existing site conditions and discuss potential future uses affordable housing. She supports the bus uses; it is a bus site,” she to guide the RFP. For more information please visit bit.ly/PlanNubian. the proposal as is. said, “but if they segue to cleaner “We will be the new host for technology with a more compact Únase a los miembros del PLAN: equipo de Nubian Square el 26 de marzo de 2021 de 6 a 7:45 pm para the Shattuck Hospital and as site, their needs could be met. discutir el lote P3. Durante este taller, continuaremos revisando las condiciones existentes del sitio y such, we have a really important These Shattuck proposed uses discutiremos los usos posibles para guiar la RFP. Para obtener más información visite bit.ly/PlanNubian. and vested interest in this process have been shown that they could and how the Shattuck campus work by some collaborations Tanpri rantre nan ekip la PLAN: Nubian Square sou Avril 26 a 6 a 7:45 pm. Ekip Nubian Square la ap kontinye revize kondisyon sit ki deja egziste yo epi diskite sou itilizasyon potansyèl pou gide RFP nan lavni. Tanpri is redeveloped,” said Steve Fox, between the Emerald Necklace vizite: bit.ly/PlanNubian pou plis enfòmasyon. chair of the South End Forum. Conservancy and Northeastern He said that there is a “need University.” Freeman said that Contact: for both temporary and perma- she “urges” the state to “take a Kelly Sherman nent supportive housing,” and look at those” and to “help us Boston Planning & Development Agency he believes that the “recommen- work together to get the T to fol- One City Hall Square, 9th Floor Boston, MA 02201 dations that have come from this low through on their promises.” 617.918.5493 | [email protected] process” are “right on target Karen Mauney-Brodek, pres- in terms of how it can help the ident of the Emerald Necklace bostonplans.org @bostonplans South End.” Conservancy, said that “Bos- Teresa Polhemus, Executive Director/Secretary PAGE 6 THE BOSTON SUN April 15, 2021 Women’s Lunch Place Mother’s Day cards have returned For $25, one card bly housed for quite some time woman’s design is chosen to be through efforts of WLP.” the face of the card, and they can buys lunch for a week White said that Darcy fell either be sent blank to be filled for a woman in need in love with WLP’s Creative out later, or sent directly to the Expressions program, which is recipient with a message. By Lauren Bennett part of the organization’s “over- White said that Darcy, “prob- Women’s Lunch Place (WLP), arching wellness program,” she ably more than anyone,” has had a day shelter that provides meals said, adding that “…through her design featured on the cards and programs for women expe- expressing yourself in a creative the most over the years. riencing homelessness and pov- way, a lot of our guests find This year, many of WLP’s erty, is back with its 19th year of peace, they find their inner voice, programs and activities are still Mother’s Day cards. they talk a little bit more easily being conducted via pick-up Each $25 card will provide about what they’ve experienced rather than at the shelter, though lunch for one woman for five and the trauma that they have White said that WLP is starting days through WLP’s Healthy felt and witnessed by expressing to return to the community slow- Meals program. themselves through art rather ly. The Creative Expressions pro- This year’s card utilizes piec- than just retelling their stories.” gram was “takeout rather than es of cards from years past that After becoming housed, Darcy on-site” this year, so the women continued to visit WLP to partic- “didn’t have a lot of time” to cre- have been cut up and arranged Women’s Lunch Place guest Darcy into a floral mosaic design. The ipate in the Creative Expressions ate the designs. creating the design for this year’s card was created by Darcy, who program, as well as “to have The cards are priced at $25 Mother’s Day card. has been a WLP guest for more community, because she found each, and White said that the than 10 years, according to WLP community when she started prices for meals were increased coming to us and to ensure that this year because everything has day. Each of these three options Chief Development Officer Paula also includes one Mother’s Day White. she had well-balanced, nutritious to be individually packaged per meal,” White said. COVID regulations. Additional- card. “She came to us after she was White said that the sale of these as in a car accident and injured her The Mother’s Day cards are ly, they couldn’t have any volun- created through the Creative teers in the kitchen and instead cards “gives people something back, and was unable to work,” very meaningful to give women White said. “She has been sta- Expressions program, where one had to hire staff to prepare the meals. in their lives,” and allows people Aside from the $25 card, there to “honor the women in your life by supporting women in need.” everyone who are also other options to help the receives one of the cards also entire WLP community. She said that often, people buy cards for their wives, sisters, and receives information about WLP SmileS For $300, an individual, and about the artist who created other important women in their business, or organization “can the card. sponsor a day of breakfast..for lives, not just their mothers. “You don’t have to be a moth- “It really helps to educate Start everyone we serve,” White said. those who need to understand… “That’s very impactful for a lot er to understand the importance of caring for each other,” White exactly the impact of our work,” of people. We do about 200 she said. here. meals a day.” said. Additionally, the purchase of To order a card, which can be The South End Community Health For $500, a day of lunch can sent blank or personalized with be sponsored, and for $150, a Mother’s Day card from WLP Center provides high-quality health “spreads our message,” she said, a message, visit womenslunch- care to newborns, children, and teens fresh fruit can be provided for a place.org/mothers-day. through age 17. From annual check-ups and preventive care to treating children with more complex conditions, we’ve been caring for kids Councilors call for hearing on in the South End for 50 years. We’d like to care for yours, too! We offer both enforcement of short-term rental regulations telehealth and in-person visits. Staff report of Appeal last week, opposed rate operators from participating by both Councilors Flynn and in short term rental activity due Boston City Councilors Ed Bok, in which relief was granted to their impact on Boston’s hous- Flynn, Kenzie Bok, and Lydia for Sonder to convert 26 units to ing stock, rental market, and Edwards are calling for a hearing Executive Suites on Batterymarch quality of life issues they present- A Division of the East Boston Neighborhood Health Center this week regarding the status St. This decision runs contrary ed in our neighborhoods. and the enforcement of the Short to the spirit of the 2018 ordi- In 2019, a hearing from Coun- meet the newest member of our Term Rental Ordinance passed in nance, which sought to remove cilors Flynn and Edwards on the 2018. The hearing order follows non-owner occupied properties, implementation of the ordinance pediatric team: Dr. riemer! a decision at the Zoning Board Investor Units and large corpo- specifically raised these con- “I’m thrilled to join the Pediatric Department at the cerns, of both the Councilors South End Community Health Center. As a pediatric and civic organizations across doctor of osteopathic medicine, I practice a whole- Clinical Research Study for Healthy child approach to care, supporting wellness in the city, that large corporations both mind and body. My goal is for your child to be Men and Women could potentially continue oper- truly healthy, inside and out, in addition to being Are you a healthy man or woman without any chronic illness? Are you age 45 or older? ating short term rentals in the symptom-free. I recently became a mom myself, so If yes, you are invited to participate in a research study at the Brigham and Women’s Hospital same manner under the guise of I can appreciate how it feels to want the best care that is looking at the effects of a dietary supplement β-nicotinamide mononucleotide, (a for your child in challenging times. It would be my dietary component found in various food products) on metabolism, muscle performance, and Executive Suites. The Councilors privilege to provide your child with the attention physical function. seek to discuss this critical issue and care that your family deserves.” • Participation includes up to 12 study visits and other concerns that exist Dr. Jeretta LeighAnn Riemer, Pediatrician • Financial compensation of up to $1700 is provided regarding enforcement of the • Free parking and meals are also provided. ordinance, the eligibility criteria accepting new patients. For more information, please call: 617-525-9193 Or Email: [email protected] Or Visit: Call 617-425-2090 to make an appointment https://rally.partners.org/study/nad_booster • http://hormonesandaging.bwh.harvard.edu/mib/ (Short Term Rentals, Pg. 7) April 15, 2021 THE BOSTON SUN PAGE 7 FEMA to reimburse families up to $9,000 who lost a loved one due to COVID-19

By John Lynds FEMA Administrator Bob Fen- directly or indirectly to COVID- ton. “The COVID-19 pandemic 19 and shows that the death The COVID-19 pandemic has caused immense grief for so occurred in the United States, has brought overwhelming grief many people. Although we can- including the U.S. territories, to many families. With many not change what has happened, and the District of Columbia. families struggling through the we affirm our commitment to Other important documents are pandemic with loss of jobs and help with funeral and burial funeral expenses documents that income the added expense of expenses that many families did include the applicant’s name, providing a funeral for a loved not anticipate.” the deceased person’s name, the one that succumbed to the virus Local funeral directors across amount of funeral expenses, and has been a heavy burden. Boston are encouraging custom- the dates the funeral expenses This has been especially true ers who lost a loved one due to happened. for many in Boston but a new COVID-19 to sign up for the To be eligible for FEMA’s program by the Federal Emer- program. Families may qualify funeral assistance, you must gency Management Agency for up to $9,000 for funeral costs meet these conditions: (FEMA) aims to ease some of related to a single loved one and The death must have occurred those financial burdens. up to $35,500 for funeral costs in the United States, including Last week FEMA launched related to multiple COVID-19 the U.S. territories, and the Dis- a new program that began pro- deaths. trict of Columbia. viding financial assistance for However, FEMA does not per- The death certificate must funeral expenses incurred after mit funeral homes to submit doc- indicate the death was attributed Jan. 20, 2020 for deaths related umentation on a family’s behalf. to COVID-19. to COVID to, “help ease some In fact, no one can register for The applicant must be a U.S. of the financial stress and burden FEMA Funeral Assistance but citizen, non-citizen national, caused by the pandemic”. families who lost a loved one. or qualified alien who incurred Under the Coronavirus FEMA has received reports of funeral expenses after January Response and Relief Supplemen- scammers reaching out to peo- 20, 2020. tal Appropriations Act of 2021 ple offering to register them for There is no requirement for On Friday the BPHC released its weekly COVID-19 stats by neighbor- and the American Rescue Plan funeral benefits. FEMA has not the deceased person to have been hood that tracks infection rates and COVID testing results in Boston Act of 2021, the new program sent any such notifications and a U.S. citizen, non-citizen nation- neighborhoods. will reimburse local residents will not contact you before you al, or qualified alien. who lost a loved one to COVID register for the program. FEMA began accepting appli- up to $9,000 for funeral expens- With that said, families should cations Monday, April 12 and COVID-19 numbers es. keep and gather documentation. additional Information may be “At FEMA, our mission is The types of information should found at https://www.fema.gov/ decrease in neighborhood to help people before, during include an official death certif- disasters/coronavirus/economic/ ed by the BPHC two weeks ago. and after disasters,” said Acting icate that attributes the death funeral-assistance. By John Lynds The 5 percent threshold has been Last week the Back Bay’s used to plan Boston’s phased weekly COVID-19 positive test reopening strategies. Short-Term Rentals (from pg. 6) rate decreased after posting a The BPHC data released last and screening process, and the Suite conversions to once again that our regulations are enforced 17.2 percent increase two weeks Friday showed Back Bay, Beacon removal of Investor Units. run unregulated, de facto hotels, and our neighborhoods are pro- ago. Hill, North End, West End and Passed in June of 2018, the and taking much needed units tected.” According to the latest data Downtown had an infection rate ordinance regulates short term from our housing stock. “As we have seen in the past released by the Boston Public of 586.4 cases per 10,000 resi- rentals on platforms, such as “In the midst of an affordable few years in the downtown Health Commission (BPHC) dents, up 3.3 percent from the Airbnb. Only units that are housing crisis, and as we recov- neighborhoods, if we don’t last Friday, 2,987 residents were 567.6 cases per 10,000 residents owner-occupied are eligible for er from both a pandemic and continue to take action against tested and 3.2 percent were reported two weeks ago. short term rentals. The ordi- economic crisis, I find it whol- short-term rentals, housing stock positive--this was a 5.8 percent An additional 105 residents nance would also require short ly unconscionable and disap- will be converted and residents increase from the 3.4 percent became infected with the virus term rentals operators to register pointing that the Zoning Board will not actually live in our reported by the BPHC two Fri- last week and the total number their units, apply for a license approved last week’s proposal neighborhoods anymore,” added days ago. of cases in the area increased yearly, and notify the abutters. from a large, multinational cor- Councilor Bok. “We can’t allow Overall since the pandemic from 3,163 cases to 3,268 cases Currently, Executive Suites are poration to convert 26 units to an executive suite loophole to started 48,822 Back Bay, Beacon as of last Friday. exempt from the ordinance and Executive Suites. It’s time for us frustrate our efforts to preserve Hill, North End, West End and The statistics released by residents, advocates and civic to stand up for our values as a much-needed housing in our Downtown residents have been the BPHC as part of its weekly organizations have expressed city. I voted to ban these large community.” tested for COVID-19 and the COVID19 report breaks down concerns that large corporations companies from operating these “Both the current and previ- data shows that 6.7 percent of the number of cases and infec- will continue to operate their unregulated hotels because they ous administrations supported those tested were COVID posi- tion rates in each neighborhood. units by pursuing these conver- take away precious housing the ordinance,” said Councilor tive. This was a 1.5 percentage It also breaks down the number sions. Last week’s decision by stock, drive up the market, and Edwards. “Why are they now increase from the 6.6 reported by of cases by age, gender and race. the Zoning Board of Appeals present serious quality of life supporting workarounds and the BPHC two weeks ago. Citywide positive cases of included a large, corporate oper- issues in every neighborhood,” loopholes? It doesn’t benefit Bos- Positive test rates citywide coronavirus increased 2.5 per- ator who had similar proposals said Councilor Flynn. “We must ton and goes against the spirit decreased but still remain at the cent percent last week and went elsewhere Downtown and in not let these large, corporate and intent of the ordinance.” 5 percent threshold. According from 65,474 cases to 67,138 the South End. This decision has operators exploit any potential For more information, please to the BPHC 28,091​​​​ residents confirmed cases in a week. Five raised concerns from civic orga- loopholes or circumvent regu- contact Councilor Flynn’s office were tested and 5 percent were additional Boston residents died nizations and housing advocates lations to take away valuable at 617-635-3203, or at Ed.Fly- COVID positive--this was a 3.8 from the virus last week and that commercial operators will housing stock. I look forward to [email protected]. percent decrease from the 5.2 there are now 1,358 total deaths now seek to exploit Executive having this discussion to ensure percent positive test rate report- in the city from COVID. PAGE 8 THE BOSTON SUN April 15, 2021 2021 Summer in the City THE BOSTON to be developmentally appropriate Charlestown Boys and Girls Club Chris Rascka, The Sandwich ilies, and workplaces. With a for each age group.. The Summer has been around for over 125 Swap by Kelly DiPucchio,and focus on getting you out on the CHILDREN’S SCHOOL Fun program also offers children years thanks to the generous sup- Michelle’s Garden by Sharee water, Courageous offers Learn 8 WHITTIER PLACE music appreciation, gymnastics, port of donors. To help contribute Miller. In addition, each session to Sail lessons on weekdays and Boston, MA 02114 arts and crafts, and interactive sto- to their continued success during will include reading a poem from weekends, 2-hour sails on Boston rytelling. Parent involvement and this difficult time, visit the website Mr Rogers’ A Beautiful Day in the Harbor, and memberships to give 617-367-6239 participation are always a part of or call 617-242-1775 Neighborhood. you access to our fleet of over 35 bostonchildrensschool.org the program, which begins July 12 The Zoom meeting link will be vessels. and ends Aug. 6, 2021 given to you closer to the date of Summer Fun Program If you would like your child CHARLESTOWN the first program. To sign up con- Adults ages 18+ can transform The Boston Children’s School to become part of the 2021 tact [email protected] from landlubber to seafaring soul Summer Fun Program celebrates Summer Fun Program at the BRANCH BOSTON Also, on June 9th the BPL in just 2 short weeks with our its 39th year of providing excep- Boston Children’s School, call PUBLIC LIBRARY wil welcome Wally (the Green Learn to Sail course, and families tional summertime experiences Judy Langer, Program Director, at 179 Main Street Monster) from The Red Sox for a can enjoy time together out on the and academic enrichment to chil- 617-367-6239. We are also now virtual, interactive reading adven- water on a Harbor Sail! Purchase dren between the ages of 3 and enrolling for the 2021-22 aca- Charlestown, MA 02129 ture. Visit bpl.org for the Zoom by April 25 to take advantage of 8 years old. The Summer Fun demic year. To learn more about 617-242-1248 link for this webinar or contact our “Spring into Sailing” event. Program at The Boston Children’s all of the programming we offer, the Charlestown Branch at 617- School is conveniently located at visit our website bostonchildrens- Spring Storytime + Art with 242-1248. After spending so much of Charles River Park, in the historic school.org. Essem Studio this past year working alone, this West End section of Boston. The This six week series by COURAGEOUS summer is also a great time to location is fully air-conditioned. Charlestown Library and Essem get your work team back togeth- The school has its own private CHARLESTOWN Art Studio begins Friday April SAILING CENTER er. Courageous offers unique playground, which allows children BOYS & GIRLS CLUB 23rd at 10:00 am and incorpo- Pier 4 Charlestown team-building opportunities that to safely play outdoors away from rates an Art Project along with get coworkers out on the water the noise, congestion and traffic of 15 Green Street a reading project. Art projects caitlyn@ for casual cruises or racing, fol- the city streets. The location also Charlestown, MA 02129 include:a cardboard robot, water- courageoussailing.org lowed by catered treats on the pier. allows children to explore the cul- color, a self portrait, crayon proj- www.courageoussailing. Contact us for more information. tural richness of the City of Boston 617-242-1775 ect, poppy flowers and a plate of through field trips to museums, www.bgcb.org “my favorite food”. org/spring-sale Courageous Sailing is thankful theaters, libraries and historic sites, Be A Maker by Katey Howes for the support from our donors as permitted by COVID protocols. The Charlestown Clubhouse includes the robot project. Craft Spring into Summer Sailing for and sponsors that make all of The Summer Fun program is orga- has a full Summer program, but materials for this project will ALL our programming included in our nized by age; each age group is everyone is looking forward to be available at the Charlestown After a long year indoors, kids mission based youth program pos- supervised, taught and nurtured resuming regular after school Library the week of April 19th aren’t the only ones who are ready sible. If you would like to make by certified teachers, along with programming this Spring. Visit 2021. Other titles include Tiger to get outside and have some a contribution, please visit our teacher interns from local area www.bgcb.org to see what is hap- Days by Clark,"e" inc.I Promise Summer by Sciencefun! Courageous Dis- Sailing Center website. colleges. All activities are designed pening “Up at the Club”. The Lebron James, coveryIn The City Program by offers getting programs for adults, fam- ready!!! Are you ready for the"e"inc. Summer Science Discovery Program?! "e" inc. currently creating 2 great curriculums for our 5-day summer science camps in the Navy Yard. June 22 to Aug. 21, 2020 Sign up begins end-April Want info? Call us at: 617-894-3409 FOR GIRLS & BOYS GRADES 5-12 PROGRAMS ✺ Specialty Programs GRADES 5–8 ✺ Sports Clinics July 12 - August 6, 2021 GRADES 6–12 Register Now! ✺ Academic Courses Ages 3 to 617-367-6239 GRADES 6–12 8 years Eight Whittier Place bostonchildrensschool.org SUMMER

FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO REGISTER: For Advertising Rates, Another safe summer planned at bchigh.edu/summer the Charlestown Boys and Girls REGISTRATION BEGINS BEGINS FEBRUARY FEBRUARY 11, 8, 2020! 2021 Call 781-485-0588 Club. April 15, 2021 THE BOSTON SUN PAGE 9 ACTING MAYOR KIM JANEY TOURS SOUTH END BUSINESSES

Acting Mayor Kim Janey took a business tour of the South End on April 10 and visited Freddie and Carlos Blanco at the Don Quijote Market on Washington Street and Vejigantes Restaurant in Villa Victoria. (Photos courtesy Mayor’s Office/Isabel Leon)

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INTERESTED IN ADVERTISING IN THE SUN? CALL 781-485-0588 TO GET STARTED PAGE 10 THE BOSTON SUN April 15, 2021

Taking out Nomination Papers for Mayor on Tuesday were five of the six declared candidates for the open seat – including John Barros, Councilor Andrea Campbell, Councilor Annissa Essaibi George, Councilor Michelle Wu, and State Rep. Jon Santiago. Acting Mayor Kim Janey had not taken out Papers by presstime, but has until May 11 to do so.

Nomination Papers (from pg. 1) Nomination Papers came just vorable – with 35 percent having with 17 percent favorability, and expected to do so in the coming ander Gray of Jamaica Plain; as a new voter poll from WBUR, not heard of her before. Council- 50 percent not knowing him. days. Ruthzee Louijeune of Hyde Park; the Dorchester Reporter and the or Annissa Essaibi George landed Mayoral candidates must get Meanwhile, Richard Martell and Erin Murphy of Dorchester Boston Foundation came out in third place virtually tied in all 3,000 signatures of registered of the North End did take out had taken out papers. with interesting results – most metrics with Councilor Andrea voters in Boston. At-large coun- Nomination Papers for a poten- notably that around 46 percent Campbell. Essaibi George had cilors must get 1,500 signatures tial run. They were joined by new of voters were undecided about a 27 percent favorability and and a District Councilor must get The at-large Council race will names in James Colimon of Ros- mayor. Campbell had 26 percent. Some 200 signatures. have a full slate, with two seats lindale; Domingos DaRosa of Of all the candidates, Council- 44 percent had never heard of For South End, Back Bay and vacated due to Wu and Essaibi Hyde Park; Raymond Vasquez of or Michelle Wu had a 47 percent Essaibi George and 42 percent Fenway, Councilors Ed Flynn George running for mayor. Dorchester; Althea Garrison of favorability rate, but also the hadn’t heard of Campbell. and Kenzie Bok had taken out Councilors Michael Flaherty Dorchester; Bridget Nee-Walsh highest unfavourability rate of Meanwhile, State Rep. Jon papers already and no one else and Julie Mejia are expected of South Boston; Roy Owens Sr. 11 percent. Only 21 percent had Santiago found himself at the had taken out papers in the dis- to run for re-election, but only never heard of her before. Acting bottom of the list with a 13 per- tricts as of yet. Mejia had taken out papers on of Roxbury; Donnie Palmer of Mayor Kim Janey registered at cent favorability rank, and 57 However, by Wednesday the first day. Brighton; Nick Vance of Hyde 34 percent favorability, the sec- percent not know who he was. morning she had not taken out Already, declared candidates Park; ad Patrick Williams of ond highest, and 5 percent unfa- John Barros was ahead of him her Nomination Papers, but was Kelly Bates of Hyde Park; Alex- Dorchester.

Is Hollywood becoming Beane’s Town? Berklee grad, Brennan Helper advances on American Idol

By Cary Shuman so relaxed, you were so calm. Hepler talked about Monday’s You grew into your artistry. You “sing for your life” performance Brennan Hepler, the Berklee enjoy being in that rhythm even during a telephone interview. College of Music graduate now though it’s nerve wracking what “I was fortunate to have known to millions of American you’re going through. You gave picked a song that meant a lot to Idol fans as Beane, has earned a us a stellar performance where me, so I was very excited about spot in the popular TV show’s you just relaxed into your talent. the opportunity to sing that song, final group of 12 contestants. On American Idol, you got the above all else,” said Hepler. Hepler, a 23-year-old resident best shot of your life.” The excitement grows each of Brighton, delivered a stirring Perry said, “There is only one week for Idol contestants as they rendition of Ben Platt’s “Grow Beane. You have convinced me. develop national followings on As We Go” on Monday’s live I’m a card-carrying Beanie baby. social media. Helper’s many fans Brennan Hepler, known as Beane, performs on the American Idol show. show to enter the coveted Top 12 I love seeing you grow. I think are known as Beanie Babies. after not receiving a Top 10 nod you’re not going back. You’re “I’m excited about how it’s in the nationwide vote. just going forward and your progressed so far and I’m really the stylish, sequined white jacket more excited be something that “Beane has worked so hard evolution has been amazing to thankful for the support that I’ve and outfit that he wore during everyone can find some joy in and wants the title and this is his watch.” gotten from all over the place,” his performance Monday night. during this time,” said Hepler. shot to stay in the competition,” Abdul also admitted to being said Hepler. “This has been the “It’s the coolest I’ve ever felt “My friends and family have said host Ryan Seacrest prior to a Beane fan. “I think everything most interesting and crazy expe- in my life,” he related. “It was been so incredibly supportive.” Beane’s electrifying performance. about you is very special and rience I think I’ll ever have. It’s very Harry Styles-esque, I guess. To his many fans in Boston, Celebrity judges Lionel Richie, unique,” said Abdul. “You shine such a unique experience to go It was like Prince meets Harry Hepler offered, “Please tell them Katy Perry, and Paula Abdul like a bright light.” through, so I think that’s why Styles.” how grateful I am for their sup- appreciated Beane’s vocal tal- Hepler, a 2019 Berklee grad, there so much bonding amongst Hepler said he has received port and I can’t wait to get back ents. It had to be overwhelming has been in Hollywood (Cal- the contestants. The whole thing tons of encouraging messages home and make music for people for Hepler to hear such praise ifornia) for the past month in has been so, so beautiful to con- from fellow Pennsylvanians and live.” from three absolute giants in the rehearsals, video promotion nect with people like that. It’s the Berklee College of Music Berklee College of Music music industry. packages, and performances for been wonderful.” community. student Grace Kinstler also “Mr. Beane, I am so proud the show. Hepler was also excited about “The people back home are advanced to American Idol’s Top of you,” Richie said. “You were just so thrilled and I couldn’t be 12. April 15, 2021 THE BOSTON SUN PAGE 11

so that a Recovery Campus for on the Connector. omfort tation (from pg. 1) C S the region can be built on the “This is a public health crisis,” drug and homelessness issues Island. She also called on Gov. she said. “We want action now. for years, have seemingly turned Charlie Baker to push for more We don’t have time for Zoom a corner this past winter and treatment facilities and services after Zoom and meetings and spring. Most of that seems to be outside of Boston. meeting minutes that aren’t open in part due to the policy of keep- Brian Maloney, who owns to the public. This is inhumane. ing the quality of life issues bot- Middlesex Truck and Coach in These are parents, siblings, chil- tled up in the Comfort Station. Newmarket, said it’s very hard dren and it’s not okay…The However, businesses in Newmar- for him to do business in the area South End-Roxbury Partnership ket and the South End-Roxbury now. doesn’t want this Comfort Sta- Partnership do not want to see “We had a vibrant business tion re-opened until the City and the Station open up and further up until the last few years,” he state can give us a tangible plan.” numb everyone to the drug use said. “It’s hard to get employees Two weeks ago, the City and normalizing of “inhumane” to come here. They’re afraid and announced that they were clos- treatment. our customers are afraid to come ing the Comfort Station, which Sue Sullivan, director of the here too. It’s devastating. We has become infamous for drug Newmarket Business Associa- need Quincy to stop this lawsuit dealing and open drug use – as tion, has been supportive of the and let the Bridge be built so peo- well as upticks in violence in the City’s efforts with the Comfort South End resident Andy Brand points to a man who, during the press ple can get help again on Long area. City leaders said they were conference, wandered into oncoming traffic on Southampton Street and Stations in the past, but said that Island.” going to re-assess the Station, appeared to be extremely intoxicated. He said it’s happens numerous Yahaira Lopez, who founded and potentially re-open it in two is no longer the case. She cited times every hour. there had been 10 stabbings, two the South End-Roxbury Partner- weeks. So far, there has been no homicides and one shooting in ship, said they do not support the communication on the matter that area. She said the growing re-opening of the Comfort Sta- from the City, but some sources violence and drug use can’t con- tion because it isn’t humane. She are indicating the City is lean- tinue. cited that the situation is only ing towards not re-opening the “We understand there are getting worse, and they plan to Station. The two-week closure people on both sides of the protest again starting this week would end today, April 16. issue,” said Sullivan at a press conference Monday morning on Southampton Street. “We can- not support the Comfort Station re-opening and being operated in the way it was. Atkinson Street is an open air drug market. The Police do everything they can, but they are swimming against the tide. We cannot have an open air drug market. We are not in favor of re-opening the Comfort Boston Police had to escort the man during the press conference out of Station.” the way of oncoming vehicles and back to the sidewalk, where he even- Sullivan said she had been tually laid by a street sign. working cooperatively with the area to prey on those with drug their reports,” she said. “People Boston Police, as well as with issues. need to understand this isn’t a Acting Mayor Kim Janey’s office. “We’re calling for the DA to Boston problem; this is a Com- However, she challenged DA please help us in prosecuting monwealth problem.” Rachael Rollins to more vigor- these drug dealers…to make sure She also called on the City ously prosecute the numerous they’re not back out on the street of Quincy to drop its lawsuit in drug dealers that come to the before the police officers finish the Long Island Bridge project

Yahaira Lopez, founder of the South End-Roxbury Brian Maloney, who owns Middlesex Truck and Partnership, said they do not support the re-opening Coach in Newmarket, said employees are afraid and of the Comfort Station until the City and state pres- customers are hesitant to come to his business now. ent the public with a humane, and tangible plan. PAGE 12 THE BOSTON SUN April 15, 2021 Janey discusses police accountability and transparency in the city

By Lauren Bennett lence.” $1 million to create the office. review Patrick Rose’s internal while preying upon children,” She said that “as mayor, I’m At Tuesday’s press conference, affairs file, and redact any infor- she said. “We must change the Acting Mayor Kim Janey held committed to ensuring safety, she announced that “seasoned mation that could compromise way BPD internal affairs works a press conference on April 13 to healing, and justice in every Bos- attorney and advocate” Stepha- the identities of the sexual assault to ensure that this never happens discuss police accountability and ton neighborhood. I understand nie Everett will be the Executive or domestic violence victims,” again.” transparency, as well as violence that the fabric of trust between Director of OPAT. Janey said. “The victims of these She also said that her FY22 in the City of Boston, following the Boston Police Department Everett “will lead the orga- appalling crimes must be protect- budget “dramatically reduced the shooting and death of Del- (BPD) and Boston residents has nization with the authority to ed, but transparency cannot wait police overtime expenses,” and ois Brown on her front porch in worn thin in parts of our city, review all BPD internal affairs any longer.” funding for expanding the police Dorchester last weekend. especially in communities of cases, subpoena the release of She continued, “As we now cadet program by 50 percent to “I visited the fatal crime scene color.” records and strengthening police know, an alleged child molester allow for more diversity in the on Saturday evening and again Janey said that “transparency accountability to the people was allowed to remain on the police force. She said the pro- on Sunday morning,” Janey and accountability” need to be at of Boston,” Janey said. “My police force and rise through the gram will add “20 new diverse said. “It was my first time as the forefront of the conversation, administration is bringing a new ranks of the patrolmen’s union officers to the Boston Police mayor, but like the residents on “especially” when talking about era of transparency and account- for two decades.” force.” that street, it is something I have law enforcement. ability to all corners of city gov- She said that “those who are Janey also said that she has experienced far too many times.” “My administration is dou- ernment.” complicit in abuses of power will “charged” Chief of Housing She continued, “It is outra- bling down on our work to stand She also brought up the alle- be held to account,” and that Shiela Dillon with helping to geous that a grandmother or up the Office of Police Account- gations of child molestation and “the release of these files is a first “safely relocate families impact- anyone cannot sit outside on a ability and Transparency, other- abuse against former Boston step.” ed by homicide.” beautiful spring day without the wise known as OPAT,” she said. Police Union president and BPD Additionally, the OPAT will Additionally, “I’m dedicated fear of being shot to death. Most On Wednesday, Janey sub- officer Patrick Rose. investigate the “BPD internal to ensuring safety, healing, and Boston residents live in a safe, mitted her Fiscal Yer 2022 bud- “I have directed the city’s affairs system that allowed a justice for every resident in all of peaceful neighborhood, but too get, which she said allocates law department to immediately police officer to remain on the job our neighborhoods,” she said. many others live in fear of vio- With finances in decent shape, City proposes 3.9 percent budget increase All eyes are on BPD “If you look at other parts and rely on. No one can be left was some discomfort with the require so much emergency over- reform in historic in other cities other parts of the behind as proposal, as it doesn’t seek to cut time. state, they’re talking about where Boston recovers from COVID- the Police Department budget He said they plan to add more operating, capital budget they need to spend the federal 19, and looks forward to the very much at all – that coming than 30 officers to the ranks, By Seth Daniel (Rescue Plan) dollars to make future.” after Acting Mayor Janey issued increasing the numbers to 2,300 up for losses,” he said. “We are Sterritt indicated that the City the Black and Brown Agenda officers in the budget. Those offi- The good news about the City not in a position like than in was slated to get about $435 mil- last year calling for a full over- cers will hit the academy in June Budget is that revenues are pre- Boston. We didn’t need to have lion in federal funding from the haul and major cut to the Police and be on the streets in Decem- dicted to remain in good shape any layoffs or cuts, but actually recently-passed Rescue Plan, and budget. Not having such a cut ber. Having more officers avail- despite the economic upending we added new programs…That’s that money is something they in her first budget proposal has able to work, he said, will cut by COVID-19, but the bad news the position Boston is in.” hope to have a further conver- brought confusion on the Coun- is that the Police Department The Operating Budget is sation about – perhaps looking cil already, said the councilor. down on having to call in officers budget is likely going to domi- accompanied by a 5-year $3.2 at one-time investments and not Sterritt said last year’s $12 on overtime due to shortages in nate the conversation – and the billion Capital Plan that is the using it to fill gaps in municipal million cut to the Police Budget staffing. controversy – once again this largest in history, representing a government as is being done else- didn’t materialize, and in fact the That will be accompanied by a Budget season. $200 million increase over last where. Police budget exceeded its alloca- 50 percent increase to the Police Acting Mayor Kim Janey year’s plan. As far as revenues go, prop- tion. Cadet program, and a $500,000 released her budget on Wednes- “During the past year, Bos- erty tax collections were seen as “The Police had a $12 million investment in a medical team to day and a piece of good news ton has come together like never being very reliable and certain, cut last year,” he said. “We did help officers that are injured or likely to be buried in more serious before, and we must take that and the only revenues that were not hit that number.” out of work return safely. structural budgetary items is that spirit of inclusiveness and com- down were parking fines and Most of the overages, he said, Another piece of that puzzle fiscal healthiness of the City. The passion and translate it into real license fees – down about $7 mil- came due to overtime paid for with the Police Department bud- $3.72 billion City Budget is an investments for the City of Bos- lion. Revenues for hotel excise the large numbers of protests get is a $1.75 million allocation increase of $142 million over last ton and our residents. COVID- tax and other local options like and election-related unrest that to fund the design of an Alter- year – or a 3.9 percent increase. 19 has brought on unprecedent- Meals Taxes were also down, required a large police presence, native Police Force. That force At the same time, it contains no ed economic and social change but Sterritt said they expected most of it paid via overtime. would respond to things like layoffs, no service cuts and fully for our city, and this budget those revenues to return with the That also came at a time when mental health issues, and drug funds all the liabilities and debt proposal meets the moment economy turning around after there were large amounts of addiction issues – something that payments facing the City. and makes targeted investments the pandemic lifts. retirements in the Department, has been called for over a number New City CFO Justin Ster- to ensure that as we emerge All that said, the focal point of and few new officers coming into ritt said Boston is in an envi- from this public health crisis we the Budget once it gets to public the ranks. of years by residents. The alloca- able position compared to many are not going back to normal, hearings before the City Council As a counterweight to that tion would be to hire staff and other major cities and locales but going forward better than is going to be the Police Depart- news, he said this budget cuts consultants that would usher in near Boston – many of whom are before,” said Janey. “I am proud ment budget – a controversial overtime by 33 percent, taking the framework of the program – struggling with cuts to municipal of this budget and the enormous topic last year that was only it from $65 million last year to but only after “a robust commu- government due to an uncertain work that goes into running our going to grow this year. $21 million this year. That is nity process that involves intense property tax base and declining City government and provid- One councilor has already accompanied, he said, by a plan and direct conversations with the revenues. ing the services Bostonians need told the newspaper that there that will sustain the cut and not community.” find us online at www.thebostonsun.com April 15, 2021 THE BOSTON SUN PAGE 13 Take the Marathon Daffodils walking tour

Staff Report Hill, Post Office Square, at the hundreds of generous donors of our entire Boston Strong com- thon Weekend, the bulbs are Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Green- and volunteers who donate their munity,” says Matthew J. Pis- removed from the cooler, ending The Boston Marathon may be way to Fort Point Channel, along money, time, and energy to add a citelli, co-owner of Olson Green- their winter-long hibernation, postponed due to the pandemic. the Seaport where the 20 Knots: cheerful display of yellow daffo- house that grows the daffodils. beginning their life as a Boston However, thousands of Mara- Daffodil for Boston art installa- dils to welcome runners, visitors, “The Marathon Daffodils Strong Marathon Daffodil. thon Daffodils will still flourish tion is displayed sponsored by and residents. “Come take a are our way of offering a living On Friday morning, April and be distributed over the Patri- WS Development, at the Chris- walk around the city to see the symbol of Hope, Spring, and 16, volunteers’ trucks will be ots Day weekend to frontline topher Columbus Park, Sam beautiful, cheerful, yellow Mara- Rebirth.” says Clive Olson, Jr, loaded with daffodils while healthcare workers. Adams Boston Tap Room at its thon Daffodils; enjoy our great Vice-President of The Mara- teams of volunteers gather at a The blooms can be found Faneuil Hall Pub and in historic City of Boston and celebrate this thon Daffodils. “It is especially dozen locations throughout the in many public spaces, includ- Charlestown. Spring tradition while wearing important after experiencing a City of Boston, to receive and ing Audubon Circle, Kenmore Boston resident Diane Valle a mask and social distancing,” challenging year of a pandemic.” deliver the Marathon Daffodils Square, Back Bay, and at the founded the Marathon Daffo- adds Valle. In October of 2020, more to hospitals, green spaces, and Boston Athletic Association dils, now in its eighth year, to “Marathon Daffodils is a way than 25,000 Dutch Master daf- locations. Marathon Finish line area. Also, honor the spirit of the Boston to remember those who lost their fodil bulbs were imported from Marathon Daffodils is sup- the Marathon Memorial sites, Marathon by growing and deliv- lives; to acknowledge those who Holland, planted in 5,000 pots, ported by the generosity of num- along the Esplanade and Emer- ering thousands of daffodils suffered injuries and those who and put into a massive cooler at erous donors, Garden Clubs, ald Necklace, at the “Make Way throughout Boston. The Mara- rushed to their aid as well as to Olson Greenhouse, Raynham, Massachusetts Master Gardeners for Ducklings” statues, Beacon thon Daffodils collaborates with signify the resilience and strength MA. Three weeks before Mara- and businesses. BPDA holds discussion proposed change of use for 321 Harrison Ave. project

By Lauren Bennett “reaffirm our commitment to the rison Ave. and Washington St.” design staff was to incorporate tions or concerns from the public promises made” to the original The streetscape will be activated the geometry of the connector expressed at the meeting, but one The Boston Planning and owner of the building, including by retail on the ground floor as with the canopy so that it looked resident did as about the pent- Development Agency (BPDA) “workforce financial contribu- well. intentional as a design element house and its design. Spaulding held a public meeting on April 7 tions to infrastructure improve- He said that two “viewable” of the original project. It really is said that “through many stud- to discuss changes to the project ments and stormwater manage- pieces of the change in construc- just to extend the canopy in the ies,” the team has “determined at 321 Harrison Ave. that is cur- ment improvements,” as well as tion fro what was originally right side and allow it to connect it is better against the sky” for it rently under construction. improvements to landscaping approved include the addition of with the architecture of 321 Har- to be a grayish tone rather than Joe Imperato of BioMed Real- and transportation benefits. more rooftop mechanical equip- rison in a very intentional way.” something darker, so the “profile ty explained that BioMed is now “I think we have 93 bike spac- ment for the lab use, as well as Additionally, the mechanical of the building is what you read the owner of the building and is es within the garage,” Imperato a “connector to serve connec- penthouse will be “extended and focus on as opposed to the proposing to change the use of said, and public bike racks that tion between this loading dock to the east towards Harrison,” penthouse itself.” the building from its previously can fit 26 additional bikes. There and the 321 Harrison building Spaulding said. The penthouse For more information on this approved use of office space to will also be charging stations for so that lab use can effectively be is not being made any taller, but project and the proposed chang- lab space, as previously reported electric bikes, as well as onsite served from that dock which is rather just larger to fit all of the es, including the full video from by the Sun. bike repair, showers, and locker on Mullins Way.” mechanical equipment that is the meeting, visit bostonplans. BioMed is an “owner, opera- rooms. Spaulding continued, “one of required for a lab use. org/projects/development-proj- tor, and developer of life science Architect Mark Spaulding the details that was important to There were not many ques- ects/321-harrison-avenue. real estate,” he said. The pro- then discussed some of the pro- posed changes include upgrades posed changes and how they to mechanical systems and load- would affect the eight story ing areas, as well as “minor building “atop the existing park- architectural changes to mask ing structure” that has been Virtual Public Meeting the systems.” approved and is currently under He added that with the construction. increase in interest for this type “The main takeaway from BU Fenway Campus Institutional Master Plan of life science real estate, he is this is that all of the benefits that “confident that a lab building were public realm improvements Wednesday, April 21 Zoom Link: bit.ly/3dGBWy2 can be occupied fairly quickly.” as part of the original project are 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM Toll Free: (833) 568 - 8864 Imperato also said that “we still being constructed as origi- Meeting ID: 161 734 9858 feel the change in use brings a nally designed and approved,” number of benefits, economic Spaulding. Project Proponent: and otherwise, to the area really He spoke about the “cross Boston University immediately.” block connector between Har- He said that BioMed will Project Description: This is a meeting of the BU Fenway Campus Task Force, open to the general public, to discuss the proposed ten-year Institutional Master Plan for Boston University’s Fenway Campus (formerly Wheelock College), located in the Longwood Medical Area. No new development Parking enforcement activities projects are proposed over the course of the IMP. slated to return on April 20 Please note: we will not be discussing the University’s Charles River Campus at this meeting.

Staff report will return citywide, includ- mail to: Edward Carmody ing towing during posted street Boston Planning & Development Agency Close of Comment Period: Acting Mayor Kim Janey sweeping and for parking in One City Hall Square, 9th Floor 5/10/2021 announced that the Boston Boston, MA 02201 spaces without an appropriate Transportation Department phone: 617.918.4 422 (BTD) has updated parking resident sticker. Also, BTD will email: [email protected] not be ticketing residents with an enforcement regulations in the BostonPlans.org @BostonPlans City of Boston. Starting Tuesday, expired inspection sticker until Teresa Polhemus, Executive Director/Secretary April 20, parking enforcement May 31. PAGE 14 THE BOSTON SUN April 15, 2021

Attention to Detail By Penny Cherubino Real Estate Transfers BUYER 1 SELLER 1 ADDRESS PRICE THIS WEEK'S ANSWER BACK BAY Suizenji GP LLC Pascu, Nicolae L 75 Clarendon St #40 $845,000 Suizenji GP LLC Pascu, Nicolae L 75 Clarendon St #502 $845,000 Robin I Kane T 80 Comm Ave Dev LLC 80 Commonwealth Ave #3 $5,400,000 Fliegauf, Heidi Baban, Jalal E 492 Beacon St #14 $1,195,000 Raqeeb RT Vincent Falanga RET 183-185A Massachusetts Ave #601 $1,160,000 Lahmadi, Wahid Forkner, Adam H 425 Newbury St #N58 $120,000 160 St Botolph Street LLC Knickerbocker&Brahmin 160 Saint Botolph St $3,100,000 Namkung, Andrew Besosa, Jorge L 175 Saint Botolph St #2 $850,000

BEACON HILL Nicholas, Coral D Koncilja, Kevin 17 Bowdoin St #5A $510,000 Koncilja, Kevin Schaefer, Justin 125 Charles St #R3 $820,000 Kaplan, Lee M Crozier, Julie S 19 W Cedar St #1 $578,000

BAY VILLAGE/SOUTH END/KENMORE Brindley, David A Gianatasio, Frank 213 W Canton St #1 $1,975,000 Miranda, Zurilla M Oconnell, Elise W 554 Tremont St #9 $870,000 Schmid, Anna Robert J Comazzi 16 Wellington St #5 $645,000 Mcmahon, Brian Shannon Robins RET 156 Worcester St #2 $705,000

WATERFRONT/DOWNTOWN LCI 147 Milk Street LLC Mept 147 Milk LLC 147-149 Milk St $47,950,000 Tran, Hai Roberts, Justin 165 Tremont St #801 $2,410,000

BTD commissioner discusses traffic concerns with St. Botolph Neighborhood Association The awnings in the last clue are on the Eliot Hotel at 370 Commonwealth Avenue. On the hotel website they say, “Built in 1925 By Dan Murphy issues in the last three months, immediate changes at the inter- by the family of then-Harvard University President Charles William down from 34. section, said Rooney, that won’t Eliot, the hotel originally housed semi-retired Harvard professors. The Boston Transportation “People are complying more,” require any input from engineers. Ullian family purchased it in 1939 and have owned and operated it Department Commissioner Greg Rooney added, “but we want to “It can be scheduled literally a since.” You’ll find the next clue in the Fenway neighborhood. Do you Rooney was on hand for the look at the area as a whole,” day out,” he added. have a favorite building or detail you would like featured? Send an virtual spring meeting of the St. Pedestrian safety at the South- City Councilor Ed Flynn email to [email protected] with your suggestion. Botolph Neighborhood Associa- west Corridor crossing at West implored Rooney to have the city tion (SBNA) on Thursday, April Newton Street, as well as further lower the speed limits to 20 mph THIS WEEK'S CLUE 8, to discuss ongoing traffic and up West Newton Street at the on all residential streets. parking concerns in the neigh- mid-block crossing, also remains “Driving 25 miles per hour borhood. a serious concern for residents. down St. Botolph or any residen- In December, Rooney said the But as the city is now getting tial street is reckless,” Councilor BTD had designated one traffic ready to prioritize its upcoming Flynn said. “We desperately need space specifically as a loading street construction projects for to lower the speed limit – I’ve zone for the 7-Eleven at 252 the next calendar year, Rooney said it 100 times before.” West Newton St., but that “with said, this would give them the Randi Lathrop, a neighbor- the pandemic, it’s hard to gauge opportunity to go out to the hood resident, also requested the effectiveness of the changes intersection and potentially make that West Newton and St. Boto- because traffic patterns are dif- a “spot intervention” there. lph streets be included in the city’s ferent and the turnover in park- Besides “daylighting” or “Neighborhood Slow Streets” ing isn’t as much.” installing flex-posts, Rooneyprogram, which allows residents, The BTD also doesn’t enforce said there would possibly be neighborhood associations and traffic violations, said Rooney, so an opportunity to add flashing other community-based organi- that “conversation would need LED crosswalk signage at the zations to apply for traffic calm- to continue” with Boston Police. intersection, which have proven ing in a specific neighborhood, But despite no changes being “very effective” so far. The city since, she said, the current condi- made to traffic enforcement, has already procured 50 of these tions are potentially perilous for Rooney said the BTD has “seen signs, he added, and is now try- residents of the nearby elderly more compliance in the loading ing to get more of them. zone,” with only nine tickets The BTD can also make more (SBNA, Pg. 15) April 15, 2021 THE BOSTON SUN PAGE 15

SBNA (from pg. 14) living development. University is donating 25 rolling running momentarily, he said, Car breaks were also low, said contractor has been named and Rooney replied that the neigh- trash bins for the occasion. and someone would take off in Sgt. Deleo, and police arrested the construction management borhood could apply to the pro- Due to COVID restrictions, their cars, only to abandon them a suspect in connection with a plan finalized, work would likely gram, and “in the next round, the Cleanup will run a little dif- a block or two away. March 30 smash-and-grab inci- commence in August or Septem- we’ll see where it is in the rank- ferently this time, said Claire While Captain Sweeney dent at Cumberland Street and ber. ings.” Dargan of the EBNA board, so said the crime rates were low Huntington Avenue. A loading dock located behind In response to several requests volunteers are being asked to throughout the district during Moreover, with only four the building would serve as a that street sweeping be extended bring their own tools, as well as the first three months of 2021, package thefts reported, Sgt. staging area, said McGonagle, from March to December, as has to tend to their own stoops. quality-of-life issues, like care Deleo said that residents seem to help mitigate the project’s been the case in the South End, Volunteers will sign in at West idling on St. Botolph Street, to be “doing a job of taking impact, and construction hours North End and Beacon Hill, Newton and St. Botolph streets, remain an ongoing concern. their packages away and keeping would be 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Rooney said he was “agnostic” said Dargan, and then be direct- Captain Sweeney also asked track of their delivery times.” about trash pickup times, but ed to different areas in need of resident to notify police if they Sgt. Deleo also pointed to The scope of the project they need to be coordinated cleaning up. see large groups of dirtbikes or attempted beak-ins at 17 St. includes the preservation and with the Public Works Depart- “We’re hoping to get a deliv- ATVs gassing up or being loaded Botolph St. and 89 Wellington renovation of the building’s liv- ment, since that agency handles ery of mulch,” Dargan added, into a garage or a U-Haul in an St. and reminded residents to ing units and common areas, the actual sweeping. He said he “so we’ll certainly need every- effort to help curtail instances of keep their door locked and to she added, while some exterior would broach the subject with one’s help to move that around.” drag racing citywide. remain wary so not to fall prey changes are also planned, includ- them, however. On Cleanup Day, Dargan As Mass Cass continues to be to “crimes of opportunity.” ing the installation of new ener- Councilor Flynn said it’s also requested that residents not the epicenter of the city’s opioid Otherwise, an assault with a gy-efficient windows. important that the community park on the street so debris could crisis, Captain Sweeney said Bos- firearm was reported on March have “one voice” on this mat- be swept into the center of the ton Police are continuing to work 31 “somewhere near the cor- St. Botolph Stained-glass ter and offered to personally street, where it will be collected with the Drug Control Unit and ridor,” but detectives are now website take it up with the Public Works by the city. other city agencies to address investigating the matter, Sgt. Neighborhood resident Dan Department. Gisela Griffith, vice president that issue, while the police are Deleo said. d’Heilly is developing a website Rooney also said he would of the SBNA board and the also partnering with the Pine devoted to stained glass in the look into another request to group’s “trash czar,” said North- Street Inn and the city’s Street Status check on 70 St. Botolph St. Botolph neighborhood, and remove as many as half of the eastern is being a “huge help” in Outreach workers to address St. redevelopment project the SBNA is accepting photos of parking meters on St. Botolph this effort and encouraged resi- homelessness in the area. Kathlin McGonagle of the St. Botolph stained glass – taken Street. dents to get involved. Sgt. Paul Deleo said since Boston Housing Authority and from both inside and out – for the beginning of the year and other members of the project the project at Neighborhood Cleanup Day Police provide update all throughout February and team were also on hand to dis- info@stbotolph. returning May 1 Captain Steve Sweeney of the March, incidents of graffiti had cuss the city’s upcoming rehabili- org or via text at 617-792-7472 The longstanding Neighbor- Boston Police Department’s Dis- been rampant, and that tagging tation of 132 affordable housing (and be sure to include the street hood Cleanup will return on trict 4 said crime is down 27 per- had persisted despite the arrest of units at 70 Botolph St. address and photographer’s Saturday, May 1, from 9 a.m. cent district-wide year-to-date, three suspects in February. While construction had orig- name, as well as whether or not to noon, with the area behind compared to last year, with only Another suspect, who is a teen, inally been scheduled to get to credit them for the image). the Midtown Hotel serving as an uptick in auto theft; these inci- has also been identified, said Sgt. underway in June or July, McGo- The goal is for the St. Boto- the “base of operations,” said dents commonly occurred when Deleo, and police are now keep- nagle said the project had just lph Stained Glass Gallery up and Joan Carragher, president of the Uber Eats drivers left their vehi- ing an eye on him, and will likely received zoning approval the pre- running by May 1, according to SBNA board, and Northeastern cles unattended with the engine talk to his parents as well. vious Thursday, and that after a the SBNA website.

CORONAVIRUS the Covid-19 pandemic. This mat-Forto discuss off-leash Record dog recreation 26, 6 p.m. The proposed develop- Maura Healey has created UPDATE: Due to public ter was referred to the Committee spaces in the City of Boston. This ment program provides a mix of resources for workers to health concerns, the hear- on February 17 2021. matter is sponsored by Councilor uses complimentary to the fabric report safety concerns during ings that nor-mally would be held Ricardo Arroyo and was referred of the Back Bay. The Project pro- reopening. They include an online on a week have been postponed From the April 20, 11 a.m., to the Committee on City and poses an eight-story mixed use form at the Attorney General’s or canceled due to the guidance CITY COUNCIL COMMITTEE Neighborhood Services on March building, building upon the exist- website and a dedicated Fair Labor of Mayor Martin Walsh and the ON GOVERNMENT OPERA- 21, 2021. ing three-story building and add- hotline at 617-727-3465. People order of Gov. Charlie Baker. Some TIONS HEARING: Message and ing five levels on top of 761–793 can also find those resources by meetings, however, have been order changing the date of the Pre- The BPDA is having a virtual Boylston St. The Project proposes calling 311. moved to an online or teleconfer- liminary Election for this municipal public meeting for 771 Harrison approximately 15,830 SF of retail, ence format under the emergency year from September 21, 2021 to Ave. in the South End (Immaculate 25,720 SF of office/fitness and HOW TO REPORT A order on the Open Meeting Law September 14, 2021. This matter Conception Church) on May 3, nine residential units within the PROBLEM PROPERTY issued by Gov. Baker. was sponsored by former Mayor 6 p.m. Public meeting in connec- top three stories totaling approxi- Since taking office in 2014, Martin J. Walsh was referred to the tion with the proposed changes to mately 18,600 SF. The retail uses Mayor Walsh has made fixing On Thursday, April 15th at Committee on March 24, 2021. the 771 Harrison Avenue project occupies level 1 through level 2, quality of life issues a priority in 6PM, the Friends of the Public (currently under construction) in followed by office space on levels his administration. From investing Garden will hold their annual On Tuesday, April 20, the Bos- the South End (the “Project”). On 3 through 5, and residential units in Public Works to making sure meeting. ton Ward 4 and Ward 5 Democrats March 31, 2021, 761 Harrison on levels 6 through 8. A rooftop will host the first virtual Mayoral Church, LLC, submitted a Notice amenity for the residential units is community policing is a staple in From the April 15 Public Candidates Forum from 6:30 to of Project Change and the Third also imagined. A lobby accessed every neighborhood, we are mak- Improvement Commission meet- 8:30PM, moderated by Callie Amendment to Planned Devel- from an entrance on Boylston ing sure every neighborhood is ing, online: Crossley. opment Area No.59, seeking to Street leads to a compact vertical clean, safe and a great place to live •Dalton Street, Boylston Street, convert all of the residential units elevator and fire stair core located and work in. Unfortunately some Hereford Street; Roxbury, Boston Emerald Necklace Conser- in the Project to condominiums to the northern edge of the floor properties in Boston need more Proper – Specific Repairs – On a vancy Tour of the Muddy River (currently the Project is approved plan. The core provides access to help than others, and that's petition by the City of Boston Pub- Restoration, April 21st from with 63 total residential units, of all upper levels. why we are here. If you know of lic Works Department 2:30pm-3:30pm, led by Army which 51 are designated as rental a property that fits one of the fol- Corps of Engineers, limited to 10. units and 12 as condominiums). REPORTING WORKPLACE lowing criteria: multiple calls to From the April 16, 1 p.m., The public is encouraged to attend. SAFETY CONCERNS 911, one that’s blighted or just a COMMITTEE ON EDUCA- From the April 21, 1 p.m., •Workers in any size organi- general concern, we encourage you TION HEARING: Order for COMMITTEE ON CITY AND The BPDA is having a virtual zation have options if they feel to reach out to your neighbor- a hearing regarding the sta- NEIGHBORHOOD SERVICES public meeting for 76-793 Boyl- they are being pressured into an hood liaison. tus of Universal Pre-K given HEARING: Order for a hearing ston St. in the Back Bay on April unsafe situation. Attorney General PAGE 16 THE BOSTON SUN April 15, 2021

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