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THURSDAY, July 16, 2020

Published every Thursday Serving Back Bay - South End - Fenway - Kenmore Pine Street, Roundhouse Hotel to USES EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION PROGRAM REOPENS open homeless shelter at Mass/Cass day. rooms at the hotel – which they Agreement shocks When the news leaked out on have leased for one year. The cli- Friday, neighborhood groups in ents are being transferred from a neighbors, some the South End quickly began meet- Suffolk University dorm they have in City Hall ing to digest the shocking infor- been in since the pandemic hit mation and figure out what to do. the homeless population hard in By Seth Daniel Several neighborhood groups put April and the City moved fast to together quick meetings to analyze find alternative housing in empty By Monday morning, tables, the shock factor of adding a home- dorms across the City. To socially lamps and other hotel amenities less shelter in place of a hotel in an distance its population, Pine Street were being taken out the front area that wasn’t supposed to get had used the Suffolk dorm, but door of the Best Western Round- any more human services – period. Downie said they have to be out by house Hotel on Mass/Cass in the The period has been replaced the end of July – and their choices South End to make way for a con- with a comma, though, as Pine came down to the Roundhouse or troversial new homeless shelter, Street Director Lyndia Downie nothing. but many in the neighborhood – this week said they are moving “This is a decision between two and some in City Hall – had just forward and will transfer approx- found out about the plan last Fri- imately 180 individuals into 92 (Pine Street Inn, Pg. 4)

SAX SERENADES ON BOYLSTON Vacation cancelled? Take a trip to the COURTESY PHOTOS Public Garden instead The United South End Settlements (USES) Early Childhood Education program and the Club48 program re-opened this week for summer By Lauren Bennett activities after having closed in March due to COVID-19 restrictions. Kids and staff at USES were excited to be back with friends and teach- The Boston Public Garden is ers for some ‘normalcy.’ All over the City, as Phase 3 rolled out, new known for being a place to relax, activities like youth sports and summer camps were allowed. unwind, and enjoy nature, and this summer, be sure to stop and smell the hibiscus. For more than 100 years, city Community advocates for fair tree gardeners have prided themselves on ornamental planting displays removal in Phase Two of Muddy for people to enjoy on strolls through the park. River Restoration Project “Visiting the seasonal floral dis- plays are more than a photo op— By Lauren Bennett erett Pond to Boylston Street in they are a civic tradition,” accord- both Boston and Brookline, and ing to a 2019 article on the Friends The Muddy River Restoration includes dredging, excavation of of the Public Garden’s website. Project Maintenance and Man- the sandbar and island at Leverett “Exotic” plants like palm and agement Oversight Committee Pond, removal of phragmites, and banana trees were introduced to (MMOC) held a virtual public restoration of the shoreline. the Garden by William Doogue, meeting on June 30, where they A portion of Phase Two includes who was in charge of the Public provided information to the public the removal of 123 trees over the Garden from 1878 to 1906, the about Phase Two of construction more than three mile long stretch Jonte Samuel worked hard for his music last week on Boylston Street, article states. for the Muddy River Restoration of land that makes up the project where he played his saxophone despite the hot and humid temperatures. “Confident of his credentials, Project. area, US Army Corps of Engineers Coming from St. John, USVI, he said the heat doesn’t bother him. He Doogue wanted nothing less than Phase One of the project includ- Project Manager Jennifer Flana- came to Boston 10 years ago, and frequently can be found playing on to make the Public Garden a show ed the daylighting of the Muddy gan said at the public meeting. Boylston Street. Of note, he can play from memory about 20 national piece of the city,” it continued. River in the area near Emman- This news has left Caroline Reeves anthems from various countries – something that’s a big hit with tourists uel College. Phase Two consists during normal summer visiting season. (Public Garden, Pg. 6) of work in the area between Lev- (Muddy River, Pg. 3) PAGE 2 THE BOSTON SUN July 16, 2020 editorial WHEN DID THE U.S. GO FROM FIRST TO WORST? For those of us of the Baby Boom generation, it was unquestionable that the United States was “the best” country in the world. Despite the war in Vietnam, Watergate, recessions, 9/11, and other setbacks, America continued to be a global leader in just about every aspect of world affairs. Basically, there was the U.S. -- and then there was everybody else. American exceptionalism was taken for granted (even if in truth we often were not all that exceptional). However, the coronavirus has pulled back the curtain and exposed us for what we have become -- a nation that ranks among the worst by many metrics. Compared to our supposed peers in Western Europe and Asia, our response to the pandemic has been pathetic. COVID-19 death rates per capita in Western Europe are only a 10th of the death rate in the U.S. And while theirs are falling, ours is rising. Consider these additional facts: How can it be that we have 4% of the world’s population, but we have 25% of the deaths from COVID-19? How can it be that four months into the pandemic, we still do not have enough PPE (personal protective equipment) for our hospital and other front line workers? How can it be that some of our states have more new cases of COVID- 19 than entire countries? ZBA approves takeout for How can it be that not only is the amount of our testing still woefully inadequate, but that our labs are so backed up that it is taking 5-7 days to get results -- which all but makes the testing useless because results Greystone Cafe Bakery and Provisions need to be made available within 24-48 hours? Staff report Gannon said at the Zoning Board said that there were no concerns COVID-19 has revealed us to be the equivalent of a so-called Third of Appeal (ZBA) virtual hearing about the proposal, and ZBA staff World country. Greystone Cafe Bakery and on July 14 that she is seeing to noted that they had received 10 To put it simply, we have devolved from being a global leader to that Provisions, which is co-owned remove the proviso granting take- letters of support. Councilor Flynn of a global laggard with the result that thousands of Americans are get- by Jacqueline Gannon, is set to out accessory use to the previous was also in support of the project. ting sick and dying and our economy remains in tatters -- and with no open at 75-77 Dartmouth St. on owner, and have it granted to the The ZBA granted the take-out end in sight. the corner of Appleton and Dart- new cafe. proviso to the applicant, noting mouth Streets. The space was She said that as a previous that it will again be for this appli- NAME CHANGE WAS A previously occupied by Appleton employee of Appleton Cafe, she cant only, and any other applicant Bakery Cafe. has experience with takeout “in who wishes to offer take out at LONG TIME COMING There will be minor interi- that particular space.” this location must come before the The decision this week by the Washington Redskins to change its team or renovations to the space, but Faisa Sharif from the Mayor’s ZBA for separate approval. name was long, long, LONG overdue. Office of Neighborhood Services The term “redskin” is -- and always has been -- a racist reference to Native Americans. For anyone who doubts that notion, just think about all of the western movies that have permeated our culture for almost 100 years. When the Bok navigates uncharted terrain during first term “It was a very challenging pro- vide input during the process, and hero would say something like, “Let’s kill all of those thievin’ redskins,” By Dan Murphy (or something similar), the use of the term “redskin” was meant to dehu- cess because first, we had to deal which looks at the current budget manize Native Americans. When Kenzie Bok was sworn in with declining revenues because as it pertains to last year’s budget, It certainly was not a complimentary term. for her first term as District 8 City of the pandemic,” Councilor Bok zero-base budgeting follows an We should point out that the obnoxious and arrogant owner of the Councilor on Jan. 5, she never said, “and as the pandemic wore example set by the federal govern- Washington football team for years has ridiculed any suggestion that he could have imagined what the fol- on, the situation around the bud- ment in which a smaller group of change the team’s name. lowing six months would have in get grew darker.” stakeholders would take a clean- It finally was the force of economics, not a sudden surge of altruism, store for her. Councilor Bok rose to the chal- slate approach in examining the that prompted the team’s about-face. When various team sponsors -- Bok, who was named chair of lenge, however, by overseeing the current city budget. who themselves became motivated to do so only in light of recent events the city’s Ways and Means Com- city’s first-ever remote budgeting “We’re implementing it going -- threatened to remove their millions of dollars of revenue, that finally is mittee, soon found herself charged process, which included “behind- forward to build on the good job what got the team ownership’s attention. with managing the city’s budget for the-scenes staff clinics and work- this year in making the traditional So we’re happy to see that yet another vestige of America’s racist past the first time – a daunting task even ing sessions” for her fellow coun- budget process more inclusive and is falling. There still is a lot more to do, but changing the name of Wash- under the best of circumstances – cilors that allowed them to make transparent,” Councilor Bok said, ington’s football team is yet another step in the right direction as we while navigating the consequences inquiries of the city’s various “but we could still do more to acknowledge and renounce our racist and genocidal past. of an unforeseen pandemic and departments on what they planned open up the budget process.” To quote the Sam Cooke song: amid growing tension between the to spend requested monies on. This new approach proposed It’s been a long, a long time coming public and law enforcement. Also, the city was able to take by Councilor Bok, along with her But I know a change’s gonna come, oh, yes, it will more public testimony than ever other fellow first-term councilors before via virtual meetings. – Julia Mejia, Liz Breadon, and And just last week after the city Richard Arroyo - would allow finalized its budget for next fiscal community organizations that year, Councilor Bok filed for a came before the committee during THE BOSTON SUN public hearing to discuss the mer- the budget cycle to testify again President/Editor: Stephen Quigley, [email protected] its of participatory budgeting and about their proposals for new pro- Marketing Director: Debra DiGregorio, ([email protected]) zero-base budgeting. grams. Art Directors: Kane DiMasso-Scott, Scott Yates Unlike participatory budgeting Reporters: Seth Daniel, [email protected] Lauren Bennett, [email protected] where the public is allowed to pro- (Kenzie Bok, Pg. 3) July 16, 2020 THE BOSTON SUN PAGE 3 Walsh announces city programs, and initiatives, provides COVID-19 update

By Lauren Bennett make an appointment force will be holding online lis- time,” Walsh said. was in the hospital “with serious Last week, Walsh also talked tening sessions on key issues,” “Barring and changes in cir- injuries to his hands and body,” Mayor Walsh made several about the importance of the avail- Walsh said on Tuesday, wher resi- cumstances, the ban on plastic calling the situation “entirely pre- announcements at his press con- ability of parks and open space dents can share their “experiences, bags and the five cent fee will ventable.” ference on July 14, one day after this summer as the City continues beliefs, and suggestions.” remain suspended until September Walsh has created a task force Step One of Phase Three of the to fight COVID-19. More details on the times, dates, 30 in the City of Boston,” Walsh whose job it is to come up with state’s reopening plan took effect “I believe and we believe in the and content for the sessions will be announced on July 14. ways to address this issue in the in the City. City that parks are essential to the available this week. He added that the Boston Pub- neighborhoods. “Right now, the US is the worst health and wellbeing of the res- Walsh also said that he “reaf- lic Health Commission and other “It’s incumbent upon all of firms” his “pledge to act on the agencies have said that reusable place it’s ever been in dealing with idents in every single one of our us to let those people it’s time to recommendations of this board as bags are safe, and “people should the pandemic where our numbers neighborhoods,” he said. “We stop,” he said. “Fireworks are ille- informed by the community.” feel free to bring them to the remain the number one city in the gal in Massachusetts. They can’t are,” Walsh said. “Here in Boston store.” and in Massachusetts, we need country for access to parks.” YOUTH EMPLOYMENT be carried over state lines.” to do everything we can to avoid In Phase Two, City playgrounds On July 14, Walsh announced BPL and BCYF UPDATES Walsh said that concerned res- going down that path.” and splashpads reopened “with updates to the youth summer job The Boston Public Library idents can anonymously call the He said that the first few weeks appropriate safety and signage,” program offered by the City. (BPL) branches remain closed to CrimeStoppers hotline or text the of Phase Three “are very critical,” Walsh said, and beginning on July With fewer employers Abel to the public, but BPL to Go, the word TIPS to 27463. and emphasized the importance of 13, permitting resumed for “low offer in-person jobs for youth, the online checkout system for pick- “My message to people on the continuing to wear a face cover- and moderate contact sports and City has increased funding for the up, has been popular, the mayor fireworks is ‘it’s time to stop,’” ing, social distancing, and washing other events.” youth summer job program from reported. He said that 1.4 million Walsh said. your hands. While high contact sports $8 million to $12 million, as well online items have been checked City Hall remains open to the such as basketball, football, and as increased outreach and support out, and there have been 31,000 BAKER UPDATE public on Tuesdays and Fridays, lacrosse are not allowed until Step for youth, to “offer an opportunity new library card sign-ups. Governor Charlie Baker held a and Walsh said on July 10 that Two of Phase Three, participants to every young person in the City As of July 13, BPL to Go will be press conference on July 13, where the City is “formulating a plan to in those sports are permitted to who wants it.” available at a total of 16 branch- he gave an update on COVID-19 increase access to services,” but conduct skill practice. This includes the creation of a es, “with more branches coming statistics in the state, as well as “despite the state guidelines…we Outdoor events in the City are program called Learn and Earn soon,” Walsh said. announced a new process for the will not be hosting public or pri- limited to 50 people, which is half Career Development Internships, Boston Centers for Youth and public to report business who are vate meetings in City Hall or any of what the state allows. “People which pays high school and col- Families (BCYF) have been closed not complying with the state’s other City building at this point.” will be required to follow guide- lege students to take college level since March except for free meal health and safety guidelines. He said that online meetings will lines of face coverings and social courses and leave with actual col- distributions. Walsh said the City Baker said on Monday that lege credit, experience, and finan- has “been working hard to make continue to ensure that residents distancing,” Walsh added. about 1.2 million COVID-19 tests cial earnings. sure the programming is avail- have their voices heard. have been administered so far, and BOSTON POLICE REFORM The program, which began on able.” On Tuesday, Walsh announced the seven day average positive test TASK FORCE July 13, has more than 500 young Virtual teen programs have that beginning on July 23, City rate “remains at about 1.7 per- Walsh previously announced people enrolled in 26 different started, and online registration for cent,” which he said is a drop of Hall will also be open for in-per- the Boston Police Reform Task classes. both in-person and virtual pro- about 94 percent since mid-April. son services on Thursdays, for a Force, headed by former US Asso- grams for children ages seven and total of three days a week that they ciate Attorney General Wayne FOOD TRCUK INITIATIVE older began on July 10. Currently, there are 583 patients will be open to the public. All safe- Budd and made up of black and This Friday will mark the start “As more programs are final- hospitalized statewide for COVID- ty measures will still be in place, brown community leaders, civil of a new summer food truck initia- ized, we’re going to be adding 19, he said. and appointments will still need to rights leaders, and activists. tive in the City, Walsh said, where them,” the Mayor said. “All will The governor urged residents to be made to come to City Hall. To “Starting next week, the task food trucks will make their way be operated in accordance with continue wearing face coverings, into neighborhoods across the city public health guidelines.” hand washing, and staying home if for the first time ever. they feel sick. Kenzie Bok (from pg. 2) Walsh said that with food trucks OTHER UPDATES “COVID is not going to take offering a “natural outdoor dining Walsh said that “we’re mov- the summer off,” Baker said. “Our Councilor Bok also commended experience,” they are a great way ing forward with caution because success on the reopening piece will Mayor Martin Walsh for taking for people to support local busi- we’re seeing what’s happening in be driven in many ways by the the community’s opinion to heart nesses in a safe way. other states when they rush. “We workforce safety standards. We’re with his decision to reallocate $12 “We want people to support need to continue moving forward, grateful that thousands of busi- million from the Boston Police them,” Walsh said. “Historically, supporting the needs of the com- nesses and organizations are doing Department’s overtime budget food trucks have been associated munities and investing in our com- their part…” with downtown locations and spe- munities,” including “advancing to instead support other causes, A new website, mass.gov/com- cial events,” but this year they will equity and the quality of life in our such as affordable housing, public plaince, has been launched for the be parked in 23 sites across the City throughout this pandemic. public and employees of businesses health and food access. City in places like city parks and Walsh also addressed the ongo- to report non-compliance with the And while this change came playgrounds, with the potential for ing concern of fireworks in the state’s mandatory health and safe- after contracts with Boston Police more sites. City, as they are still going off in unions expired on June 30, Coun- For more details about the food many neighborhoods. ty guidelines. cilor Bok believes it will set an truck initiative, visit boston.gov. He said that the fireworks “con- “Investigations can result in important precedent moving for- reopening. tinue to be a safety and a quality enforcement measures if violations ward. of life concern in our neighbor- are discovered,” Baker said. “We “The commitment I made is to District 8 City Councillor Kenzie PLASTIC BAGS hoods,” and they are “causing are deeply grateful for the cooper- do everything I can to keep us on Bok. In March, the City of Boston trauma, stress, and sleeplessness” ation of our employer community that path in the year ahead because has still found time to help deliver temporarily suspended the ban on for many residents. They are also and many others. We hope this the structure of our police contract more than 3,000 boxes of food to plastic bags and the five cent fee a fire and safety risk. Walsh talk- tool can promote accountability as made it functionally impossible to the undernourished in her district for paper bags to allow for “more ed about a one year old boy who we reopen Massachusetts.” achieve bigger allocations in this and led volunteers who made more flexibility during a very difficult year’s budget,” she said, “but we than 3,000 well-being calls to area plan to renegotiate the police con- seniors. Now, she also looks for- tract in a way that we can achieve ward to writing new policy pro- reprioritization in next year’s bud- posals. get to a greater degree.” “I’m particularly excited to sup- Besides managing the city’s port Councilor [Lydia] Edwards budget, which included chairing in her fair-housing zoning amend- find us online at around 50 related hearings and ment,” Councilor Bok added. working sessions, Councilor Bok www.thebostonsun.com PAGE 4 THE BOSTON SUN July 16, 2020 Events planned for Esplanade go virtual in response to pandemic

By Dan Murphy has postponed group events on the in the park during this time have event, but not on par with a typ- Esplanade June 7, but will now Charles River Esplanade through taken a cue from the Esplanade ical 5K, but in experimenting with take place virtually as well. Association, which successfully something new, we were pleased While the state’s Department the end of this month, some orga- In lieu of performing on the reimagined its annual 5K as a vir- with the results,” said Michael Esplanade, the Boston Landmarks of Conservation and Recreation nizations that had events planned tual footrace for the first this year Nichols, executive director of the Orchestra staged a virtual concert in response to the ongoing pan- Esplanade Association. “We cer- demic. tainly thought that a virtual race called “Simple Gifts” last night, From June 1 to 7, 300 runners was the responsible way to hold July 15, and has another entitled from three countries (the U.S., the event, so we’re not surprised “Dances and Delights” planned Brazil and India) and 13 states to see other organizations that had for Wednesday, July 29, from 7 to participated in the virtual race by their events planned for the Espla- 8 p.m. that will stream live on its running or walking 5K (3.1 miles) nade follow suit.” website at www.landmarksorches- anywhere in the world at their Among them is the American tra.org. own pace. And while the number Podiatric Medical Association “Even as Massachusetts begins of participants this year was only Run, which was originally sched- to reopen and more things are a fraction of the 1,000 runners the uled for Saturday, July 25, but event typically draws, the virtual instead became a virtual event being allowed outside, we join race was still seen as an unquali- that continues through Aug. 8, DCR in recommending caution in fied success. and the AIDS Walk & Run, which holding any group activities on the A view of Back Bay from the Charles River Esplanade. “For us, it was a successful was scheduled to take place on the Esplanade,” Nichols said.

Pine Street Inn (from pg. 1) bad choices,” she said. “I under- the street in the South End. in separate locations, such as shel- stand people’s frustration. I do. “We would have had to say not ters that had space. Pine Street had I’m grateful for the people in the everyone can go back to the shel- been thought of as being a good South End we’ve worked with. We ter and good luck,” she said. “In neighbor…In a major respect, I do see this as a bridge to housing our opinion, a significant number feel they have been disingenuous and as a way to a supportive hous- of those people would have ended and it will be difficult for them ing system. In the short-term, this up on the street in the South End. to recover their reputation, which is the solution. This pandemic has We understand this isn’t what previously had been stellar.” forced a lot of decisions quickly anyone wanted, but the pandemic South End Forum Moderator that I don’t think any of us want. has forced us to make short-term Steve Fox said the decision was a Unfortunately we’re still in this. decisions and try to put long-term “gut punch” and was something The numbers have leveled off, but solutions into place.” that went against years of commu- we’re still watching the numbers That might be the situation, nity meetings with Pine Street and very closely.” but few in the neighborhood are other providers working to stabi- She said she knows it is a com- impressed with the outreach and lize Mass/Cass. Those meetings, Workers had already emptied out the Best Western Roundhouse Hotel promised area, one that no one transparency in the matter – some- known as the Opiate Working on Mass/Cass in the South End Monday morning in preparation for a thought would be the site of an thing Pine Street has done excel- Group, have taken place almost one-year lease with Pine Street Inn to use it as a homeless shelter for additional shelter to spread out cli- lently to date. Some have said not monthly for four years, and this 180 people. Neighborhood leaders and some in City Hall are furious, ents – as many in the institutional even Mayor Martin Walsh was is the type of plan everyone at but Pine Street says it had no other choice. community and residential com- fully aware this was happening, the table – including Pine Street – munity (including Pine Street) have and likely wouldn’t have support- sought to prevent, he said. and that the South End has been them to permanent, supportive met monthly for years trying to fig- ed it had he known it was coming “From a public health perspec- so accommodating to new ser- housing during the year-long lease. ure out how to reduce services like to Mass/Cass. tive, selecting a place where vulner- vices located there over the past Some have said there is a plan for shelters and Methadone clinics in A request for comment from the able homeless or those struggling 15 years. But enough is enough, Pine Street to buy the Roundhouse the area. Adding one there is not Mayor’s Office was not returned with addiction or in recovery or he said, and without any outreach for permanent, supportive hous- what Downie wanted to do, but by press time. suffering from mental health issues until last Friday, it’s a bad idea. ing – which would fall more in line she again stressed there was no Some neighbors said a private are placed in the most active opioid “This is not about meeting with published plans for the Mass/ other option. meeting of elected officials, Pine trade area in the city defies logic,” need,” he said. “All of us who Cass area. However, Downie said They did hire a hotel broker, Street officials and other stake- he said. “It is true that Pine Street have been working on these issues there isn’t a plan for that now, and and made tons of phone calls. She holders on Mass/Cass did not go has enjoyed a terrific reputation for many years, were not only sur- it is too early to say if that could said the search was hampered by well earlier this week, and though and partnership with the South prised, but incredibly disappointed happen. hotels that weren’t interested, and the plan seems to be going forward End, but for those of us who have - including our local elected offi- She said the push has to be get- those that had better, more lucra- now, Pine Street has not won any been working Mass and Cass issues cials - that notice was only given to ting housing for very low income tive offers, from colleges and uni- friends – and has likely disappoint- for over a decade, the selection us last Friday.” people in a much faster way than versities looking to supplement ed many ardent supporters. of this location for a new shelter Bob Barney of Claremont has been done in recent years. dorm space. Bob Minnocci, a board member operation is a gut punch in terms of Neighborhood Association agreed “We’ve done everything we can She said it was apparent that for Worcester Square Area Neigh- our initiatives to try to reduce the with Fox, and said they are in to reduce shelter beds, reducing spreading out clients worked in borhood Association (WSANA), concentration of services and activ- alignment on the issue. our beds by 30 percent,” she said. reducing COVID-19 numbers. She was outraged by the plan, and he ities in this part of the South End. “This siloed decision by PSI is “We’ve moved towards housing in said they had more than 35 per- said he counted himself a support- Before this announcement by PSI, I disturbing and disappointing,” an incremental way. I don’t think cent positive tests in the homeless er of Pine Street before. do not think that a single member he said. “I hope this decision is we have the luxury of incremental population at the end of March. “Pine Street Inn couldn’t have of the Working Group would have re-evaluated.” anymore.” After they spread them out in the chosen a worse location for placing supported the addition of any new Downie said the shelter is not City officials have indicated that dorms, that number went down nearly 200 highly compromised provider or service at Mass and a long-term solution, but rather with the plan going forward, they substantially and is now below 2 individuals,” he said. “They’re Cass.” a bridge to get these 180 clients would institute some sort of agree- percent. She said the hotel was a putting these individuals in the Fox said he hopes that the into supportive housing without ment to protect the neighborhood, rushed situation, and they need to middle of the worst open air drug greater community will resist mak- putting them out on the street. She including no backfilling rooms be in there by Aug. 1, but she said market in the city and these peo- ing it a NIMBY issue, especially said the Housing Placement team when clients leave, providing the other option is that these folks ple will be in harm’s way…These since the plan has been to reduce will be working in the Round- detailed statistics about housing would be on the street, likely on individuals could have been placed services at Mass/Cass for years – house with clients to help locate placements and potentially provid- ing a shuttle service for clients. July 16, 2020 THE BOSTON SUN PAGE 5 USES EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION PROGRAM REOPENS

Courtesy photos

The USES children’s programs opened back up this week for the Early Childhood Education program and the Club48 program. The programs had closed quickly in March due to COVID-19 restrictions.

Shown above, staff members in the Early Childhood Education program prepared to welcome back children to the program. Shown right: Back into the slide of things…a student in the Early Childhood Education program at USES in the South End enjoys playing on the slide this week after A young member of the Early Childhood Education program plays on being gone since March. the equipment after many months away from USES.

Muddy River (from pg. 1) of the Muddy Water Initiative, chosen “to minimize overall… out. Reeves said that the Charles- Reeves said that the MMOC Army Corps of Engineers website along with several other residents, impact.” gate Alliance, Speak for the Trees, held a meeting “that’s supposed offers information on construction upset, as they believe the tree can- Caroline Reeves said in a state- and Gas Leaks Alliance have been to be open to the public” on May activity for the next 90 days. opy should be preserved. ment that all 123 trees were initial- working with her to get more 13, but she said the public was “The removal of existing trees “A critical element of the work ly slated to be cut down at once information about the tree remov- “muted” during the online meet- greater than 4” caliper identified is the protection of the existing beginning on July 1, “although al process and its effect on public ing when they tried to bring up to be removed will begin in early trees and the landscape along the work will not be commenc- health and climate resilience. the issue of the trees. She also said July for Work Areas #7-#11 as the river,” Flanagan said. “In the ing in many of the work areas for The Emerald Necklace Conser- she believes the MMOC did not the contractor starts installing site four plus years of design for the more than two years,” she said. vancy has also been a big propo- “communicate our concerns to the fencing,” a document on the web- Phase Two project, the Corps has “The destruction of Canopy, the nent of the Muddy River Resto- right people.” The MMOC did site states. “Trees identified for worked extensively with the proj- destruction of wildlife habitat, ration project and protecting tree not respond to a request for com- removal in other work areas will ect sponsors and our landscape the noise and harm to the local canopy. ment by press time. take place as the contractor mobi- architect to determine the specific communities are all unacceptable, “The Emerald Necklace Conser- After the public meeting on June lizes in each work area in prepara- trees for removal and also the pro- when what might happen in the vancy supports the very important 30, Reeves said she began writing tion of channel excavation.” More tection during construction.” future to the project, to the plans work of the Muddy River Res- letters the next day stating that she information, including a project She said the primary goal for might all change due to unforeseen toration, which has been great- did not want to see all the trees cut map showing the work areas, can the tree portion is to protect as circumstances,” she wrote. ly needed for over 20 years to down at once, and received a call be found on the website. many trees as possible using wood Reeves told the Sun that “many prevent repeat of the devastating back from the US Army Corps of “We are grateful and we are chips and matting to protect trees trees were removed” in Phase One, flooding in 1996,” President Karen Engineers saying that they heard impressed with the US Army against soil compaction and trunk which she believes caused damage Mauney-Brodek said. “This flood what she had to say. Corps of Engineers’ willingness damage from heavy equipment. to the ecosystems of local wildlife. management project is essential “Since we’ve been able to com- at this late date to hear us and to “Careful consideration and “From my point of view, I for Boston and Brookline, and we municate with the Army Corps work with us,” Reeves said. She deliberate thought was put into the noticed because the magnificent will continue to listen, advocate directly,” Reeves said, “they’ve added that she and others will design to minimize removal of the birds of prey—hawks, falcons, and communicate for the needs of been receptive and we’ve been still continue to “push them for trees,” Flanagan said, “however, and owls—that lived in those trees the park and the park users in the given information.” She said that an assurance that they might push some of the trees slated for remov- were displaced to the Back Bay coming months and years.” while trees were cut down that those dates for the staging even al are either in the direct path of because their habitat had been Reeves said that the project morning, it was only in one partic- further into the future.” the flood risk management chan- completely destroyed.” team said at previous public meet- ular area, and the other areas will Reeves said she has worked nel slope or in a location where She said that that is why she and ings that they would replace trees follow later, rather than cutting all with Parks Commissioner Ryan access must be provided in order several others “decided we needed that were cut down, but “planting 123 trees down at the same time. Woods and City Councilor Kenzie to get equipment in to dredge the to watch out for the trees” during trees is risky at best,” she said. She said she would like to see Bok on this issue and will continue river.” Phase Two of the project. She said Doing so would not immediately the trees to be cut down “on an to do so. She said she is “grateful She said that in areas where that while she did not expect every replace the tree canopy or habi- as-needed basis. We’re not unrea- that [the US Army Corps of Engi- equipment access “requires tree tree to be saved during construc- tats for wildlife, she added. There sonable,” she said. “Don’t cut neers] are willing to dialogue with removal,” trees that are diseased, tion, she wanted to make sure that is also a chance that many young them down before you need to.” us,” and is “grateful for our city damaged, or non-native have been the process was carefully thought trees would not survive. The project page on The US officials who are backing us up.” PAGE 6 THE BOSTON SUN July 16, 2020 More Than Words receives Library of Congress State Literacy Award

Staff Report crisis that is a model for all of us. We hope that the award we have More Than Words (MTW) of been able to make on behalf of the Boston and Waltham has been Library of Congress State Literacy announced by Massachusetts Awards will support their fund- Center for the Book as the recip- raising during these unprecedented ient of the 2020 Library of Con- times.” gress/Massachusetts State Liter- Shaloo continued, “We admire acy Award. Funding for the state MTW for the way that it delivers literacy awards program is made multiple literacies and competen- possible through the generous cies to youth most at risk, inte- support of David M. Rubenstein, grating them with business part- co-founder of The Carlyle Group ners and customers throughout and a major benefactor of our the community of the book in our nation’s library. More than Words CEO Jodi Rosenbaum and MTW commonwealth. We are heartened Founded more than 15 years grad London. More Than Words Grads Sarita and CeCe. that the business model provides ago by Jodi Rosenbaum, CEO, an important window into the More Than Words is a social enter- approximately 20 hours per week tinuing to pay stipends so they can sessions. Every Wednesday and occupations in the community of prise that empowers youth ages learning critical customer service, count on income to pay bills and Friday we have You time and the book, a vital part of the com- 16-24 who are court-involved, technology, inventory manage- buy food. Youth receive a base sti- Youth Development shifts. During monwealth cultural and educa- in the foster care system, out-of- ment and leadership skills.” pend for attending check-ins with these shifts we have been talking tional economies.” school, or homeless to take charge More Than Words has estab- Youth Development Managers about how to manage time and The Massachusetts Center for of their lives by taking charge of a lished retail bookshops in Boston and team meetings, and earn addi- keep ourselves busy during quar- the Book, chartered as the Com- business. and Waltham as well as online, tional stipend payments by par- antine.” Similar to the hourly monwealth Affiliate of the Cen- “More Than Words is honored pop-up, and wholesale bookselling ticipating in workshops. As they stipend that youth received prior ter for the Book in the Library of to be recognized by the Library businesses and a high-end event begin to map reopening, MTW to the COVID-19 crisis, this pay Congress, is a public-private part- of Congress Literacy Awards and space in Boston. All of these oper- is no longer talking about going incentivizes engagement and par- nership charged with developing, grateful to Mass Center for the ations are staffed by the young back, they are focused on building ticipation in programming. supporting and promoting cultural Book for its nomination,” said people at the core of the MTW forward. Sharon Shaloo, Executive programming that advances the Rosenbaum. “The young peo- mission. As MTW Boston Partner Yonis Director of Massachusetts Center cause of books and reading and ple we employ are bursting with It has been three months since describes, “Regardless of every- for the Book, joined in the acco- enhances the outreach potential potential, but are frequently denied MTW made changes to their pro- thing that has been going on with lades, saying, “MTW is a thriving of Massachusetts public libraries. the access to the resources, oppor- gram in response to COVID-19. the world today, MTW has been example of the way books change For more information, contact tunities, and compassion they need They closed their doors but con- continuing to support youth by lives, and a lesson in the commit- [email protected] or visit http:// to thrive. At MTW, they work tinue to support youth by con- still paying us and having virtual ment to mission and agility during massbook.org/.

Public Garden (from pg. 1) Greenhouses and nurseries were built across the city to grow plants for the garden beds each year, as well as other parks in the city. This tradition continues today, and not even COVID-19 could get in the way of Parks Department Greenhouse Manager Winfield Clarke’s eagerness to plant this year’s beds, making the Garden feel like a tropical getaway. Walk into the Public Garden now, and you’ll be met with bright splashes of red, yellow, pink and purple, as well as palm trees that are replanted each year. Clarke explained to the Sun that the palm trees are planted in the sum- PHOTOS BY DAN MURPHY mer, then removed in September Vibrant tropical plants fill the garden beds this year in the Boston and transported to a greenhouse, Public Garden, thanks to Greenhouse Manager Winfield Clarke and his where they are kept dormant until team. the next year. were grown in the greenhouse, apart to get it done. Clarke also Plants like these that thrive in warm climates can only be planted in Clarke, who is from Barbados, harkening back to Doogue’s days, said that hand sanitizer was readi- Boston during the summer, as they will not survive the harsh winters, said that he wanted to incorporate and others were specially ordered ly available for the team to use. Clarke said. some of his roots into the plantings from a nursery. The whole garden, “We try to bring something dif- people happy. “Take a walk, enjoy of beauty more than ever. Many this year, and create a tropical feel which has nearly 60 flower beds ferent each year to the garden,” he it,” he said. thanks for the creativity that went right in the middle of Boston for altogether, took about a month said, but this year called for some- “The horticultural beds in the into these beautiful displays!” those who may have had to cancel for his team to complete, Clarke thing extra special. Public Garden are spectacular this Clarke said with this year’s gar- vacations due to COVID-19. added. “I wanted to do something dif- year,” Friends of the Public Gar- den all planted and ready to enjoy, He said plants like cordyline, While the virus did not stop the ferent because of COVID-19 going den’s Executive Director Liz Vizza he’s already thinking about what ficus, hibiscus, alocasia, and even a planting from happening, it did on,” he said of this year’s plant- said in a statement to the Sun. to do for next year. Again, he said banana and a mango tree are some change the way it had to be done. ings. “It gives people a nice thing “Despite the challenges of Covid- the design would be “totally differ- of the many plants f eatured in this The planting team had to work in to look at since vacations are can- 19, Winfield Clarke’s designs and ent,” and will feature some plants year’s beds. shifts due to the virus, with three celled.” He said he tried to include the greenhouse team’s installation that have been growing in a green- He said that some of the plants to four people working six feet lots of color in the garden to make are delighting visitors in a year house from seed this year. when we all yearn for this kind July 16, 2020 THE BOSTON SUN PAGE 7 Whittier Street Mobile COVID testing hits Back Bay, Newmarket

By Seth Daniel unit in her haz-mat suit and tests The test is a quick nasal swab, patients who want to check their and once registered with the The Whittier Street Health Cen- status. She said results were com- mobile clinic, it takes only a few ter on Tremont Street has wheels, ing in quickly, but now it has gone minutes and patients are on their and their mobile COVID-19 test- to about four or five days because way. ing lab is coming to the area for of all the testing that needs to be “The mobile unit helps because free testing of all residents – no done in other hot-spot states like we have several folks who may appointment necessary. Texas and California. not have the ability to get to us at The Mobile testing facility trav- They test everyone age 5 and Whittier and may not be able to els through the area and takes up. afford a test,” she said. “Our test- walk-up patients for COVID-19 “Obviously, we want to diag- ing is free and it’s been invaluable, The Mobile COVID-19 testing van on Monday. The van has tested testing, just this week performing nose people so they can quarantine especially for people who live in more than 5,000 people as of this week, free of charge. its 5,000th COVID-19 test – and and not make other people sick,” congregate living situations.” landing near the South End in she said on Monday while setting The unit began operations in Newmarket (1000 Mass Ave.) and up at Newmarket outside Alianza June and has been travelling to a in the Back Bay (29 Stanhope St.). Hispana. “The big thing is asymp- number of locations throughout Whittier Director of Nursing tomatic carriers and identifying them the city. Leaston said a lot of peo- Melissa Leaston staffs the Mobile so they don’t make others sick.” ple might be leaving this summer for vacation or to see family or to go back to work. Getting a quick and free test clears them to do those things without worry. “A lot of folks have said they were going to be travelling or they’re returning to work and need to be tested,” she said. “They want to be cleared before leaving or returning to work.” They expect to continue testing Set up and ready to go, Director of Nursing Melissa Leaston in her pro- throughout the summer at least. tective suit poses with members of the staff before testing begins. The upcoming schedule •Tuesday, July 21, Nubian Bay). 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. includes: Square, 2343 Washington St. •Thursday, July 16, Boston Liv- •Saturday, July 25, Tropical (Roxbury). 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. ing Center, 29 Stanhope St. (Back Food Market, 450 Melnea Cass. Director of Nursing Melissa Leaston helps to set up the Mobile testing Bay). 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. •Friday, July 24, Boston Liv- unit on Monday. ing Center, 29 Stanhope St. (Back (Roxbury). 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. PAGE 8 THE BOSTON SUN July 16, 2020 Outdoor dining surges on Newbury, hopes for longer-term situation

By Seth Daniel reduced indoor dining has explod- comes in. ed – with warm weather and out- “You need to create an experi- Outdoor dining is a great luxu- door spaces providing a “safer” ence,” she said. “It’s risk/reward. ry in some American cities, but it alternative for diners and a new- People want an experience or they took a pandemic for it to become found vibe to Newbury that some won’t go out. It’s very different a potentially permanent feature hope will remain. decision making than it was a few of the Boston dining scene, and As of this week, there are 20 months ago…Outdoor is breezy now many restaurant operators establishments on the Newbury and seems safe. People are reluc- clinging to anything they can get and Boylston corridor in the Back tant to go inside. I think we don’t to survive, say they would like Bay that are approved for expand- have all the answers yet regarding to see places like Newbury Street ed outdoor dining by the License aerosols and whether it can be in become more outdoor oriented for Board. the HVAC units. Right now we the long-term. Some 13 of them are on New- can be outside. I’m hoping when When outdoor dining was bury Street, and they’ve staged October rolls around and chillier approved originally in early June, some elaborate setups to lure din- weather comes around we’ll have only a smattering of restaurants ers back. answers that are positive. We have on Newbury Street were taking At Grand Tour on Newbury, three months. If we don’t, it will be advantage of it. Fresh off a pro- Steve Earle said they’ve had very tough waters for everyone… umbrellas, flowers and an expand- There is a deep concern about the test-fueled looting spree on the Steve Earle of Grand Tour on Newbury Street said their restaurant corridor in early June, few of the ed dining area on the street for is small, so the street is their dining room now. He hopes to have the winter right now in this industry.” establishments had recovered about three weeks. The restau- expanded outdoor seating continue long-term. For now, the idea is to create enough to put tables outside and rant – part of a group operated by an experience to dine in a new serve food. Only a couple, and Michael Serpa – had just opened “Having the outdoor location fact, but that there is an opportu- and different way – on the street most of them were doing it sym- five weeks before COVID closures, and sidewalk seating, we get more nity to make Boston more fun if surrounded by plants and people bolically. and they have only room for three foot traffic and people really see this could last. walking on the sidewalk in what Now, on Newbury Street and or four tables inside under the reg- it,” he said. “It definitely can be a “There’s so much energy on the has become a cozy, very non-Bos- Boylston Street in the Back Bay, ulations now, so they are hanging draw for people. Our restaurant is street,” she said. “It’s been so dif- ton, atmosphere. outdoor dining complementing their hat on the outside. very narrow and small, so we can ferent. I want to live in a place like If they have it their way, it will get only about three or four tables Rome where people are outside continue. in there. This is our dining room. eating together. We have the poten- “I love it,” Sidell said. “For us, This is where we are going to wel- tial to do that in Boston…I think it’s opened up new possibilities for come people and they can have the outside dining mostly is really our Saltie Girl location that didn’t great food and wine. We hope to fabulous and makes the city feel previously exist within the frame- be doing this at least through Sep- more vibrant. Ultimately, when it work we have.” tember.” gets extended, I certainly hope that But he also said he could see it when COVID-19 goes away, we happening long-term – like others. can still do this a summer or two Veteran restaurateur Kathy or maybe permanently.” Sidell operates The Met, Saltie Right now, Sidell said, one of Girl, and Stephanie’s on New- the challenges is to convince peo- bury Street, and they have piv- ple to come out to eat, and to oted quickly to offer patio and give them an exciting experience. expanded outdoor dining at their As with anything during COVID- locations to complement reduced 19, there is a risk/reward factor indoor dining – which she said is in deciding to leave home. Giving still risky for some diners. She said a safe experience to diners that is all restaurants are hurting right unique is key to a restaurant reviv- At Sola’s on Boylston Street, every A staff member wipes down tables on the street on Newbury Street last now, hanging on for dear life in al – which is where outdoor dining table showed a reassuring message week. It’s just one of dozens of expanded outdoor locations approved. to would-be diners.

The new expanded dining room for Piattini on Newbury St. has created a cozy atmosphere Stephanie’s on Newbury Street has tried to create an experience for diners, which very separated from the street, but very cozy and intimate with the restaurant and sidewalk. includes expanded and cozy outdoor dining opportunities, said owner Kathy Sidell. July 16, 2020 THE BOSTON SUN PAGE 9 The Grande Dame of Worcester Square: Rose Mehegan passes at 98

By Seth Daniel and even haircuts. It was much was very hard to see her declin- more common in the South End ing. She had a short-term memory If one searched hard enough, those days to have “roomers” and loss. She was really important to somewhere in the center of Worces- Mehegan’s base was 5 Worcester Worcester Square when she was ter Square park in the South End, Sq. younger and energetic. She was they would likely still find the She was a member of WSANA constantly in City Hall, lively and thumbprint of Rose Mehegan – a for many years, serving as presi- always happy.” former resident of the Square who dent for a time, and being credited Pamela Mason, who still lives ran traditional lodging houses with keeping it all together over on Worcester Square, met Mehe- there and elsewhere in the South the many years she lived there. She gan in 1973 when she moved to End, headed the Worcester Square gave her heart and soul to caring the South End. She said Mehegan Area Neighborhood Association for Worcester Square park, keep- was very politically connected, fair (WSANA) for many years and was ing it up and beautifying it at a and nice to everyone. the kind of colorful character so time when the South End didn’t do “She was the grand dame of common in old-time Boston but that often. Her forte, however, was Worcester Square,” she said. “You increasingly extinct these days. Christmas in the Square. would always see her puttering and After more than 60 years, Adrienne Kimball moved to the cleaning up the park. She had a big Mehegan left the South End in South End with her young family and good network in informal pol- 2005 due to increasing health in 1991, and lived next to Mehe- itics. She could call any politician complications, and passed away in gan until she had to leave – actual- and they knew who she was. None a Rhode Island nursing home on ly buying her home at 5 Worcester of the mayors ever missed the tree Rose Mehegan (center) receiving an award from late Mayor Tom May 29 at the age of 98. Sq. at Mehegan’s request. lighting, from Mayor White on to Menino in the 1990s. Mehegan was a pillar of Worcester Square in the Born in Rhode Island, she came “She loved the Square and the Mayor Menino. Halloween in the South End more than 60 years before leaving due to health complica- to Boston in the 1940s and found tree lighting was her pride and joy, Square was always a big deal too, tions in 2005. She passed on May 29 at the age of 89. a base in Worcester Square. She always with lots of colored lights,” and we’ve kind of continued that ran multiple lodging houses on she said. “It was charming, very too.” her. She was traumatized, and he her for a time, and she had one the Square and through the South 1950s, but it was the highlight of Greg Jackson, who moved to ended up arresting her. According son, Lawrence, and was married End – with the full experience of her year. She lived for it and loved East Springfield Street 40 years to the neighborhood account, few to Charles Mehegan. providing her lodgers one meal a it. I’m glad they continued on that ago, said there are no others like realized how roughly she had been In 2006, WSANA decided to day, transport to appointments legacy…She was a character. It Mehegan. treated until they saw her injuries. name the Square after Mehegan, “Rose was one of a kind,” he A newspaper account confirmed and a plaque naming it Rose said. “My partner and I moved to she did get treated, and said she Mehegan Park now stands for all East Springfield 40 years ago and was arrested for resisting arrest. to see. Rose was here 60 years altogether. The case was continued without a In a poem written by long-time She kept Worcester Square going. finding. resident Helaine Simmonds, she She was a ball of energy. She Both Jackson and Kimball bid Mehegan farewell in 2005, would go out and sweep the whole shared that she likely single-hand- and it is just as appropriate at her square, maybe one or two times edly saved Worcester Square park passing. a week. When nobody else cared at one point – using her political To quote a portion, “She cared too much, she was out doing it. pull to fight the City turning the not if you were not straight; long She also swept and shoveled other park into a parking lot. No one as you stepped up to the plate. people’s steps…Politically, she was was quite sure how she did it, but And with Joe and Jim and others a force to be reckoned with.” Kimball affirmed it was true. like them; they pols you could hear That was the case in 1978 when “If it wasn’t for Rose, it may her berate. You might think that she was arrested near a polling well right now be a parking lot this was not much; but she sure location at the Bethel Taberna- for the hospital and it would have had the magic touch. She kept us cle Pentecostal Church. She was destroyed the Square,” said Kim- in line; But never with wine; With handing out leaflets with others, ball. good will and with grace and such. and apparently caught the ire of Mehegan also cared for her par- So let’s drink to a lady named Police Sgt. Peter Larffarello. After ents in her lodging house, with her Rose; and bid her farewell as she he gruffly told her to move, they father being an alternative healer goes. She’s done so much good; In began to argue. According to one and psychologist – specializing in this neighborhood; And never did account, the officer grabbed her hypnotism and mesmerism. Her stick up her nose.” and twisted her arm and hurt brother, Edward, also lived with

Red Sox give grants to ten Fenway organizations

By Seth Daniel ing on Thursday, July 16. •Charlesgate Alliance - $10,000 The funding comes through •Emerald Necklace Conservancy - Ten community organizations a development whereby the Red $10,025 in the Fenway will receive a total Sox got easement rights in 2013 •Fenway CDC - $5,050 of $100,000 this summer through to build Green Monster seats over •Fenway Civic Association - the latest round of the Fenway the public street, and were also $14,500 Park Demonstration Project Com- given easements on game days for •Friends of Fenway Studios - munity benefits fund – a fund Jersey Street shutdowns. For that $4,419 maintained by the City and Red approval, the Red Sox agreed to •Kenmore Mall Project - $7,000 Sox since 2013. give $100,000 per year to the Fen- •Muddy River Initiative - $12,000 The list of awardees has been way community for 10 years. •Operation Peace Northeast - formulated and sent to the Boston It is the sixth year of funding, $20,006 Planning and Development Agen- and 13 organizations applied for •Friends of Ramler Park - $7,000 cy. Their Board is expected to vote funds this year, with 10 being •Trustees of Reservations - and approve the grants at its meet- approved. $10,000 The grants this year will go to: PAGE 10 THE BOSTON SUN July 16, 2020

Attention to Detail By Penny Cherubino Real Estate Transfers BUYER 1 SELLER 1 ADDRESS PRICE THIS WEEK'S ANSWER BACK BAY Aida T Hessler, John C 242 Beacon St #8 $2,200,000 Shinde, Manali C Suite Home LLC 84 Berkeley St #3 $880,000 Sparks, Aaron Wu, Di 280 Commonwealth Ave #G3 $455,000 Zhou, Weioing Threadgill, Margaret E 18 Dartmouth Pl #1 $1,032,500 5 New Lane LLC D Santangelo RT 86 Marlborough St #9 $1,805,000 EHinshaw, William R 451 Marlborough Res E 451 Marlborough St #RE $3,662,500 BEACON HILL Mokliatchouk, Oksana Nancy E Dirubbo RET 2002 27 Bowdoin St #3C&D $875,000 Yankee Belle RT Fry, Jared S 127 Pinckney St $2,430,000

BAY VILLAGE/SOUTH END/KENMORE Wambach, Valaya L Yanulis, Peter 285 Columbus Ave #604 $800,000 Boucher, Peter B Beck, Christopher M 26 Montgomery St #5 $680,000 Corcoran, Ann M Mcbride, Shelley 492 Beacon St #43 $960,000 ckenrode, James C Flood, Michael G 474 Columbus Ave #3 $1,550,000 Chin, Stacy Ransom, Randel T 529 Columbus Ave #22 $395,000 Fusi, John Altamura, Philip 600 Massachusetts Ave #6 $1,075,000 Gladstone, Cole W Bouffard, Marc A 608 Massachusetts Ave #1 $535,000 Flynn, Ashley M Jethwani, Kamal 668 Massachusetts Ave #G $776,000 Patrick, Michael Desprez, J David 6 Milford St #1 $1,750,000 Nallapareddy, Ravi Mohs, David 121-127 Portland St #203 $800,000 Liu, Zaipeng JAW Investment 12 Stoneholm St #614 $729,000 Dynan, William J Rodolico, Sarah 32 Traveler St #213 $226,512 Desprez, John D Highline Union LLC 48 Union Park #1 $3,150,000 Yanulis, Peter Norman, Jay D 77 W Brookline St #3 $1,189,000 Carlson, Sarah J Lauer, Joshua 145 W Concord St #3 $1,940,000 Braley, Erin M Field, John M 82-84 Waltham St #6 $910,000 Shum, Elton MAW LLC 1387 Washington St #306 $685,000 Ragland, Stephanie B Tripp, Murray J 1411 Washington St #24 $655,000 Chong, Paul JP Property 1 LLC 3531 Washington St #227 $327,900 Walsh announces in-person summer

The decorative door detail in the last clue is on the Marlbor- youth programming for BCYF ough Street side of 11 Exeter Street. This residence was originally designed by Peabody and Stearns and built in 1872. In 1999 an Staff Report BCYF-Summer. The free programs and more. As more programs and unattractive metal stairway to the Marlborough Street doorway will be held both remotely and in activities are finalized they will be was replaced by the appropriate masonry steps you see today. Mayor Martin J. Walsh and person at BCYF community cen- added to the website and available Boston Centers for Youth & Fam- ters across the city. A wide variety for registration. The next clue will be found in the Fenway. ilies (BCYF) last week announced of options are available, includ- Overnight camps will not be that online registration has opened ing arts and computer activities, permitted until Summer 2021 due for City-operated summer youth recreational programs, virtual to State regulations during the cur- Do you have a favorite building or detail you would like fea- field trips, workshops, and more. rent COVID-19 public health cri- tured? Send an email to [email protected] with your sug- programs and classes, all of which are designed and will be operated At this time, BCYF centers and sis. For current summer day pro- gestion. in accordance with current public indoor pools will be available only grams there can be no field trips, health guidelines. All BCYF com- for youth during registered in-per- activities are restricted, enrollment munity centers have been closed son summer programming, follow- is restricted, volunteers are not THIS WEEK'S CLUE for in-person programming and ing public health guidelines. allowed, visitors are not allowed, recreation due to the COVID-19 "While this summer will cer- no outside groups can come to public health emergency, with the tainly be different, we are com- centers and very strict cleaning and exception of select locations that mitted to providing safe, healthy, sanitation guidelines need to be have served as meal sites only. and engaging summer activities for followed. Some summer teen programs were our youth," said William Morales, These programs are in addition transitioned to be offered virtually. Commissioner of Boston Centers to a variety of expanded BCYF pro- "It is very important that our for Youth & Families. "We are gramming for teens which began youth in every neighborhood can carefully reviewing programming on Monday, July 6 and includes continue to have access to pro- guidelines as they are released and over 600 youth jobs through the gramming this summer as many updated and all of our summer Mayor's Summer Jobs Program. families rely on them," said Mayor programs were designed and will Job applications are still available Walsh. "BCYF has worked hard be operated in accordance with for youth between the ages of 15 to create a menu of recreational current public health guidelines. and 24 in the City of Boston. activities at each center, both vir- We can't wait to see your children BCYF community centers will tual and in-person, that will offer in our buildings--and virtually.” also continue to distribute meals youth a variety of fun and enrich- Parents will be able to search to youth throughout the summer ing opportunities." for one-time classes or on-going as part of the Boston Summer Eats Programming for Boston youth programs where they can then program. The complete list of meal ages 7 and above is available for narrow down their search by com- locations can be found here. registration now at Boston.gov/ munity center, age group, category, July 16, 2020 THE BOSTON SUN PAGE 11 BBAC approves condensers, screening wall; denies penthouse

By Lauren Bennett they realized it would be more windows. denied without prejudice by the what smaller,” but she doesn’t visible in a certain location than She said that the screening wall Commission. believe it fits within the Commis- The Back Bay Architectural Location B. would be located just above the Perko said at the July 8 heart- sion’s guidelines. She said she “vig- Commission met virtually on July The Commission asked Spriggs railing at about 4 feet tall, and was ing that the original proposal for orously opposes” this project and 8, where only three projects were if there were ways to mitigate the proposed to be made out of copper the penthouse has been reduced asked the Commission to deny it on the docket for design review noise from the condensers by the to match the copper gutters and to a “headhouse only” with a without prejudice. at 285 Clarendon St., 184 Beacon way they are mounted, which she parapet wall. “stair enclosure similar to the one She said that the “plan still St., and 126 Marlborough St. said there was, as they preferred “It wouldn’t be a bad thing to approved at 128 Marlborough,” describes a penthouse” rather than 285 CLARENDON ST. Location B over the other two. try to integrate this into the hand- she said. a headhouse, and will block light Commissioner Jerome rail,” said Commissioner Jerome She said that the current head- At 285 Clarendon St., applicant from the surrounding area. She CooperKing said he likes Location CooperKing, adding that doing so house is narrow and steep and Katherine Spriggs presented sev- said she is also concerned about B “because it’s off the edge of the would make it “a little more seam- does not comply with code. The eral options for the installation of setting a “dangerous precedent” in roof.” less.” He also said that if it were proposed headhouse includes win- air conditioning condensers on the the neighborhood. roof of the building. When discussing Location A, he to be copper, it should be slightly dows and a stair inside the struc- said, “you’re adding to that stack larger and line up with the door ture to access the roof deck. The Sue Prindle of NABB said The existing roof condition has that the Architecture Commit- one condenser on the Beacon St. that’s already close to the edge. I’ve and grill on the facade below. proposed headhouse is “a little got a little bit of an issue with that, over” 13 feet by 10 feet, 7 inches, tee “reviewed this very carefully” side and two on the back on the and said that lowering the back alley side, she said, and presented especially if there’s room available “We could set the wall behind Perko said. in the center of the building.” the railing that currently exists,” “We kept it to the narrowest towards the alley would be better. three different proposed locations Sue Prindle from the Neigh- Cutler said. She also said a dark- confines of what it can be at this “There are too many variables for the new equipment. borhood Association of the Back er material may work better in point,” she added. “We feel we in this,” Tom High of backbay- Location A was Sprigg’s pre- Bay (NABB) said that the organi- reducing the visibility of the tran- have pushed it as small as we can houses.org said. “It is clearly vis- ferred location, as the downstairs zation’s Architecture Committee sition between the railing and the get it. There is not a lot of lati- ible when the leaves are off [the neighbor said it would cause the “felt that B was the best solution screening wall. tude to push it forwards or back- trees].” He said that the way the least amount of noise. In this loca- and the contractor should be able Commissioner David Eisen wards.” proposed headhouse is designed, it tion, the condensers would be to deal with the noise issue.” suggested painting the wall black The headhouse contains a land- will be visible from a public way. located a few feet from the edge of The Commission ultimately and running it behind the railing ing, which Commissioner Jim “I would urge the Commission the building, which would make voted to approve Location B, and “instead of making it a feature Berkman said was not necessary, them susceptible to visibility from to deny this without prejudice and said that the new units should be piece.” and Commissioner Genia Deme- take a look at a new mockup,” Clarendon St., which goes against a grayish color to match both the The Commission decided to triades agreed with him. She added the Commission’s guidelines. High said. “Any new proposal sky and the existing units. approve the proposal with the that the number of windows pro- should not be as glassy as the cur- Location B puts the equipment 184 BEACON ST. proviso that the wall is painted posed was also not necessary. rent proposal is. more in the center of the building, At 184 Beacon St., Alison Cut- black and is “integrated in some “The headhouse should be The Commission voted to deny which would make it less visible ler of Adams & Beasley Associates way” with the existing railing. a standing seam copper with the headhouse without prejudice, from a public way. Spriggs said proposed to reconfigure roof deck The width will also be reduced “as punched out windows to reduce that this plan came with more railings and install a screening wall much as possible.” glare,” said Commissioner Robert saying the applicant will have to concern from the neighbor about at the rear addition. 126 MARLBOROUGH ST. Weintraub. come back in the fall when the vibrations from the equipment “The railings on the east and Ellen Perko of CBT architects Perko said the existing outdoor leaves are off of the trees and causing noise in the unit below. west elevation are now sitting on proposed to install a headhouse, kitchen and other items are all present a new mockup. The other Location C puts the equipment top of the parapet wall,” Cutler mechanical equipment, and out- being reconfigured towards the components of the proposal were more than 10 feet from the edge said, and proposed a screening door kitchen at the roof of 126 center of the roof so they are less approved, including the roof deck and would be somewhat hidden wall on the south elevation to hide Marlborough St. A proposal for visible. with the proviso that it “doesn’t by existing units, but upon further the grill and its hard piping from this project was previously heard Neighbor Marie Lefton said exceed the inner width of the inspection by the Commissioners, the kitchen and master bedroom at the May hearing, where it was that this proposed plan is :”some- chimneys.”

CORONAVIRUS Webex: For theRecord COVID-19 pandemic on businesses, the Attorney General’s website and UPDATE: Due to public health • 201-241 Stuart Street, Back Bay. the Boston Fire Department is extending a dedicated Fair Labor hotline at concerns, the hearings that normally Applicant: Michael Flannery. Purpose: the expiration date on all existing Place 617-727-3465. People can also find would be held on a week have been post- Redevelopment of the Motor Mart of Assembly and Annual Permits from those resources by calling 311. poned or canceled due to the guidance Garage, including construction of a new June 30, 2020 to September 30, 2020. of Mayor Martin Walsh and the order residential tower, all as more particularly Any issued Place of Assembly Permit or HOW TO REPORT A PROBLEM of Gov. Charlie Baker. Some meetings, shown on the enclosed plans. Annual Permit stating an expiration date PROPERTY however, have been moved to an online •1260 Boylston St., Fenway. Applicant: of June 30, 2020 will now automatical- • Since taking office in 2014, Mayor or teleconference format under the emer- Andrew Flynn. Purpose: Erect new ly be valid in the City of Boston until Walsh has made fixing quality of life gency order on the Open Meeting Law mixed-use building containing 451 apart- September 30, 2020. The invoices for issues a priority in his administration. issued by Gov. Baker. ments. Amenity spaces on levels 2 and 14. renewal will be mailed out in mid-August, From investing in Public Works to mak- Theater and retail space to be shell space and the permitting cycle for both Place ing sure community policing is a staple From the July 16, 10 a.m., CITY (fit-out by others). Two levels of below of Assembly and Annual Permits will in every neighborhood, we are making COUNCIL COMMITTEE ON grade BOH space. become October 1 to September 30 of the sure every neighborhood is clean, safe GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS •809-821 Beacon St., Fenway. following year from this point forward. and a great place to live and work in. WORKING SESSION: The Committee Applicant: Lawrence Baker. Purpose: Unfortunately some properties in Boston will hold a working session ona petition Remove proviso BZC-31677 for non-con- REPORTING WORKPLACE need more help than others, and that’s for a special law re: An Act Relative to the forming use, conditional use permit for SAFETY CONCERNS why we are here. If you know of a prop- Zoning Board of Appeal. The Chair of Children’s Medical Center parking open •Workers in any size organization have erty that fits one of the following criteria: the Committee and sponsor of the docket air lot. (Parking for 249 vehicles) options if they feel they are being pressured multiple calls to 911, one that’s blighted is Councilor Lydia Edwards. into an unsafe situation. Attorney General or just a general concern, we encourage BOSTON FIRE DEPARTMENT Maura Healey has created resources for you to reach out to your neighborhood From the July 21 Zoning Board UPDATE ON PERMITS workers to report safety concerns during liaison. of Appeals meeting, 10 a.m., via Due to the harsh economic impact of reopening. They include an online form at PAGE 12 THE BOSTON SUN July 16, 2020

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