PAGE 1 THE BOSTON SUN If you are looking to get in contactAu withgust our 6, staff 2020 STUDENTS HEAD BACK TO SCHOOL GREETED WITH or any info related to the Boston Sun please call 781-485-0588 or contact us via email. A 5-STAR SURPRISE . . . READ ABOUT IT ON PAGE 10 Email addresses are listed on the editorial page.

THURSDAY, August 6, 2020

Published every Thursday Serving Back Bay - South End - Fenway - Kenmore Southwest Corridor Park voted ‘Best of Boston’ 2020

By Lauren Bennett and organizations goes into keep- ing the park beautiful and enjoy- The Southwest Corridor Park, able for all. known by many as a peaceful It’s a real team effort and many escape running through the center hands go into helping out with of bustling Boston from Jamaica the different sections of the park, Plan and Roxbury to the South but the Sun spoke with Fran- End and Back Bay, was recently co Campanello, President of the chosen as the “Best Secret Gar- Southwest Corridor Park Conser- den” by Boston Magazine in its vancy (SWCP), as well as Jenni- 2020 Best of Boston issue. fer Leonard, Chair of the South- The magazine admits the park west Corridor Park Management “isn’t exactly a secret,” as it is used Advisory Council (PMAC). The by many to commute, play, or just SWPC looks after the portion of enjoy some fresh air. However, a lot of hard work from volunteers PHOTOS BY SETH DANIEL (Southwest Corridor, Pg. 7) HIDDEN GARDEN…The Southwest Corridor Park in the South End and Back Bay was named Best Secret Garden by Boston Magazine’s Best of Boston in the most recent issue. For many, it is a secret, but for a lot of residents and park users, City unveils Mass/Cass 2.0 it’s the worst kept secret in the neighborhood as the Corridor gets tremendous use and great community care. Here, bees Dashboard following buzz through a large patch of Echinacea flowers. Meanwhile, Tony Velez said the Corridor has been really beautified in the last several years. As a courier who lives in Boston, he bikes sharp criticism from neighbors on the Corridor daily. “You have to stop now and then and appreciate what you have around you, like the Corridor here. It’s one of the best spots in Boston.” By Seth Daniel exchanges and 3-1-1 requests. The dashboard had been a low- After facing sharp criticism from hanging-fruit promise as part of neighbors last week in the Worces- the 2.0 plan last year, and it was ter Square area on the Mass/Cass expected to be up and running ‘BioBlitz’ aims to identify and record biodiversity in 2.0 plan, on Tuesday the City by December or January. How- Common, Commonwealth Avenue Mall and Public Garden suddenly released a long-delayed ever, delays plagued it and then in the Boston Common, the Com- 1,500 observations of biodiversity online dashboard with statis- By Dan Murphy COVID-19 hit and took away the monwealth Avenue Mall and the and 257 species had already been tics and benchmarks on things The Young Friends of the Public Boston Common. recorded in the parks since just like recovery placements, needle (Mass/Cass 2.0 Dashboard, Pg. 3) Garden is currently undertaking Dr. Colleen Hitchcock, a profes- launching the BioBlitz days before- a “BioBlitz” with the intention of sor in the biology department and hand. engaging the public to identify and environmental studies program at Visitors to the three parks can record 2,500 observations of bio- Brandeis University, outlined the participate using iNaturalist – an diversity and 400 different living initiative Tuesday during a virtual species during a one-month period instruction session. She said that (Bio-Blitz, Pg. 3)

Walsh gives COVID-19 updates, Cassellius discusses BPS reopening

By Lauren Bennett the BPS reopening plan. number of cases in the state, it is not currently a cause of concern. Mayor Walsh held a press con- COVID UPDATES “Compared to the rest of the ference on Friday, July 31, where Walsh said on Friday that the United States, Boston and the he provided updates on the City’s seven day daily average of new Commonwealth are working The City quite suddenly released the long-awaited Mass/Cass 2.0 Data COVID-19 efforts, as well as invit- cases remains “very low,” as does extremely hard to make sure we Dashboard on Tuesday evening after sharp criticisms from those in the ed Boston Public Schools (BPS) WSANA neighborhood and those on the 2.0 Task Force. The Dashboard the number of COVID patients in keep these numbers down,” Walsh includes statistics like recovery placements, needle exchange rates and Superintendent Brenda Cassellius hospitals. He said that while there 311 quality of life calls. to speak more about the status of has been a “small uptick” in the (Walsh updates, Pg. 4) PAGE 2 THE BOSTON SUN August 6, 2020 editorial

WAITING FOR THE BIG ONE As we are writing this, we are awaiting the arrival of Hurricane Isaias, which is the earliest-ever ninth named storm of a hurricane season. Although Isaias was a weak Category 1 hurricane when it made land- fall in the Carolinas and will be a tropical storm by the time it reaches us, it is forecast to combine with a storm front out of the west by the time it reaches New Jersey, bringing heavy rain to western New England and strong winds to eastern New England, similar to what Hurricane Irene did in late August of 2011. Irene caused widespread power outages in Eastern Mass. (we recall losing all of the contents of our freezer in the basement) and the same is being forecast for Isaias, so we trust that all of our readers are prepared for some degree of inconvenience in the coming days. Although Isaias will not cause major damage, the record number of named storms already this season gives us pause. Climate change unde- niably is occurring in ways that are not fully understood, but one thing that is clear is that the number and severity of tropical storms are on the increase. Climate change is bringing warmer ocean temperatures, which are the jet fuel for tropical storms. And for the record, the ocean temperature in Boston Harbor these past two weeks uncharacteristically has been above 70 degrees, which is wonderful for swimmers, but a harbinger of bad things to come. The Hurricane of 1938 still stands as the fiercest hurricane ever to strike our part of the country, a once-in-a-hundred years weather event. In terms of the odds alone, we are overdue for another major hurricane. But with the effects of climate change factored into the mix, it is clear that Mother Nature could do some serious damage if another coastal uest p d storm makes its way here. G O -E So as with everything else in life, it’s just one day at a time as we await the inevitability of The Big One to strike. School buffer zones shackle communities of color from economic freedom DEATHS ARE ONLY PART OF THE By Linda Champion state law. ognize as people of color we are Boston does have a choice and able to advocate and choose for COVID STORY Creating drug-free school buffer the City Council has an obliga- ourselves. Whether the subject is drunk driving, gun violence, or COVID-19, the zones sounds like a good idea. The tion to support communities of As the Black Lives Matter headline that grabs our attention always is the death toll, of which there disparate impacts of these zones color by creating buffers that work movement has swelled to become tragically have been more than 150,000 of our fellow Americans from led to the mass incarceration of for all residents. the single largest, organized pro- COVID-19. thousands of Black and Brown res- State law allows Boston to test in modern history. While pro- However, what often goes unreported are the large numbers of injuries, idents. Now, this same failed pol- reduce buffers by ordinance or tests can inspire, our policy choices whether caused by drunken drivers, guns, or the coronavirus, that have icy is being used to prevent com- by-law. The State’s Cannabis make them meaningful. The City life-altering consequences for victims. munities of color from opening Control Commission has itself Council has the opportunity to Recent studies have shown that even individuals who are totally cannabis retail shops in their own acknowledged that overly strict do just this; by acknowledging the asymptomatic when they contract COVID-19 still are likely to have neighborhoods – denying econom- zoning rules and large buffer zones failure of school buffer zones that long-term, if not permanent, damage to their heart, lungs, brain, kidneys, ic opportunities marijuana legal- sharply limit the number of parcels shackled our communities. and other organs. ization was designed to create. available to potential operators, Opportunities to create gener- With respect to the heart, a study revealed that more than 3/4 of As a former Suffolk County favoring large corporations with ational wealth have eluded com- a group of 100 relatively young and healthy persons who contracted prosecutor, I know the profoundly substantial financial resources munities of color. The economic COVID-19 had some degree of visible heart damage -- 76 had evidence disparate human and societal toll while disproportionately harming opportunity a vibrant cannabis of a biomarker signaling cardiac injury typically found after a heart of school buffer zones—zones that smaller, local companies. Rein- industry can provide to our Black attack -- two months after the virus had cleared their bodies. our communities of color over- stating school buffer zones will and Brown residents will not be We still are learning about the coronavirus, but as time goes on and whelmingly fall within. In densely significantly raise costs (and the taken from us this time. as our nation lurches ahead with no strategy to contain the pandemic, populated urban areas, smoking a stakes) for minority entrepreneurs. Because of Mayor Walsh and thereby endangering the lives and health of all of our citizens, it is becom- joint on your “school-zoned” ten- Today, liquor stores are often City Council President Janey, we ing increasingly clear that COVID-19 is a far more insidious threat than ement led to arrest, conviction and located in “school zones”. Why can celebrate locally and nation- initially had been thought. mandatory-minimum sentences. should cannabis be treated any dif- ally the symbolism of the canna- And as we learn more and more about how damaging COVID-19 can For white suburban kids, it was ferently? The City Council should bis ordinance’s passage. However, be to even healthy individuals, it is hard to imagine reopening schools just “kids being kids.” ensure communities of color without further urgent action by and businesses without a national strategy and adequate funding to Same behavior; disparate have a choice as to which canna- the City Council, this ordinance ensure the health and safety of our people. impact. bis companies should operate in will be a symbol of an unfulfilled Boston’s school zones have been our neighborhoods. Communi- promise, rather than a symbol of largely reformed but continue to ties like Cambridge have already true restorative justice. materially block Black and Brown reduced school buffers to 300-feet, Linda Champion is a Black people from opportunities to cre- recognizing the restorative justice Korean American attorney and THE BOSTON SUN ate generational wealth in canna- intended by cannabis legalization former Suffolk County prosecu- President/Editor: Stephen Quigley [email protected] bis. Boston prohibits even the sub- and how these overly restrictive tor. She serves as an Advisor to the Marketing Director: Debra DiGregorio ([email protected]) mission of an adult-use application buffers run counter to those goals. President of Whittier Street Health located within 500 feet of a public Like Cambridge, the City Center, Board Vice-Chair to CUE Art Directors: Kane DiMasso-Scott, Scott Yates or private school serving grades Council also has a choice: choose Realty, a wholly owned subsidiary Reporters: Seth Daniel, [email protected] K-12 under the false pretense that to respect the self-determination of Urban Edge and an Advisor to Lauren Bennett, [email protected] the prohibition is a requirement of of communities of color and rec- Boston Showstoppers. August 6, 2020 THE BOSTON SUN PAGE 3

Mass/Cass 2.0 Dashboard (from pg. 1) Boston Ward 4 Dems to meet virutally Aug. 18 The Boston Ward 4 Dems Join fellow Democrats from Janey, and Ed Flynn. City’s ability to focus on anything municating with our residents on August meeting will be held on Back Bay, Fenway, and the South For Zoom information, please but keeping those on Mass/Cass the work we have done and what Tuesday, August 18, at 6 pm vir- End for a discussion with City email [email protected]. healthy. However, as August rolled is ahead of us.” tually. Councilors Michelle Wu, Kim around, members of the Worcester The dashboard includes month- Square Area Neighborhood Asso- ly and year-to-date totals for ciation (WSANA) and members Recovery Treatment Placements of the Mass/Cass 2.0 Task Force – there were 274 in the month of began to feel that the plan was July and 2,603 since Jan. 1. Anoth- Bio-Blitz (from pg. 1) flailing and failing. er key metric is the number of per- Task Force member Mike Nel- manently housed shelter guests, app and website (iNaturalist.org) include images of species tracks, mation is the disseminated to the son said as much last week, saying and there were 16 in July and 146 that Dr. Hitchcock said “was con- feathers or waste, “or any evidence Encyclopedia of Life, as well as that the conditions right now on since Jan. 1. Residents, however, ceived as a Facebook for natural- of living creatures,” Dr. Hitchcock the Global Diversity Information Mass/Cass in the South End were have been most interested in the ists.” said. Facility (GBIF) - a research infra- the definition of failure. Others needle exchange statistics, and the After participants makes their The visitors are then asked to structure that houses this data. joined him in that summation, dashboard gives a running total of initial species observation using name the species to the best of “The primarily goal is to con- and then late on Tuesday, the City those numbers. iNaturalist, they can document it, their ability, Dr. Hitchcock said, or nect people with nature,” Dr. released the dashboard. In July, there were 73,694 usually by photographing it, as get it to the family or genus level Hitchcock said of the BioBlitz, This week, Nelson said it was a syringes taken in, and 59,727 well as provide information on using automated recognition tech- “and people just need to get out starting point and at least showed given out at the AHOPE program who they are and where they made nology. for an hour or two to record these some progress on the plan, though in the South End. That is a 1.23 the observation. This evidence can Dr. Hitchcock said the infor- species.” late in the game. return rate for the month. Year to “I’m happy to have it up and date, there has been an astounding running,” he said. “Now we have 635,219 syringes taken in, and a base line to start measuring 409,977 given out – for a year to against. This is a much needed step date return rate of 1.55. in the right direction.” Long-time WSANA resident SIMPLY FREE CHECKING WSANA Vice President Desi and data guru Andrew Brand said Murphy said he was happy with this is a good first step, but he had MAKES LIFE SIMPLE the unveiling, but said he had some criticisms that were based on hoped to have such data earlier his own exhaustive research over OPEN ANY NEW CHECKING ACCOUNT this year. the years. AND YOU’LL RECEIVE FREE: “It’s a good start for informing “Boston has taken a good first residents and providers how the step with the Data Dashboard,” City will measure progress,” he he said. “It publishes some Quality Instant Issue ATM/VISA® said. “It will be a helpful resource, of Life metrics we’ve been seek- check card with access especially for residents who are ing, such as EMS calls, which are to Allpoint® network currently tracking progress with a good indicator of drug overuse their eyes rather than with data. I in the area. For example, it shows do wish the dashboard had arrived that in June, opioid overuse was sooner though.” almost 5 times more concentrated City Health Chief Marty Mar- in Mass/Cass than it was just .5 Online Banking, Bill Pay tinez said they have been working miles away. While it is a good start, and e-Statements hard on the plan, including trying the Dashboard is incomplete.” to keep people COVID-19 free He said he thinks for the Dash- and to address the issues on the board to be useful for residents to corridor. see progress in either direction, “Our City teams have been and for the Task Force to make focused on making the necessary informed, evidence based adjust- Mobile Banking, People improvements for those who are ments to its efforts, the Dashboard Pay and Check Deposit struggling: those with a substance should include the following use disorder, and the residents adjustments. impacted by the opioid epidemic •Include timelines so that we throughout Boston’s neighbor- could see progress or lack thereof hoods,” he said. “At the same time, over time. Because the impact is Plus, get your FREE GIFT we have been working together seasonal, the timelines should be when you open any to overcome COVID-19, which year over year comparisons. new checking account! has also made us adjust the way •Provide data that allows us to we deliver services across the city. compare Mass/Cass to other parts The Mass/Cass 2.0 plan contin- of the city. For example, publish ues to serve as a roadmap for City the number of EMS calls for in all departments and external partners of Boston to balance public health, public •Break out the 311 needle pick- safety and quality of life issues. We up requests, which are a more pre- NMLS # 457291 remain committed to doing every- cise indication of the impact of the Member FDIC | Member DIF 800.657.3272 EBSB.com thing we can to improve condi- opioid problem on residents. $50 minimum deposit required to open any checking account. Other fees may apply, see schedule of fees for details. Free tions in the area, with our primary •Break out syringe return rate gift is awarded when account is opened. EBSB reserves the right to substitute a gift of similar value. Please note, in the focus always being the safety and numbers so that we could know event the value of the free gift exceeds $10, the bank is required to report the gift value on form 1099-INT. The recipient is wellbeing of all people in the City how many needles were brought responsible for all applicable taxes. Bank rules and regulations apply. Ask a representative for details. of Boston. The new boston.gov/ in by IV users, and how many mass-cass website is one of the were discarded in the streets, in the Facebook.com/EastBostonSavingsBank action items included in our plan parks, and on private property. which allows anyone to track met- Members of WSANA and the rics and take a deep dive into the 2.0 Task Force are still awaiting many services that are offered in the publication of the six-month the area. It further reassures our report on the 2.0 plan, which was ADVERTISE IN THE SUN. CALL 781-485-0588 commitment to transparently com- due in March. PAGE 4 THE BOSTON SUN August 6, 2020 Major interest sparked for mail-in ballots early in the Primary Election

By Seth Daniel State Primary. Voters may request a ballot using the vote-by-mail City officials said this week they application for the September 1, had received more than 26,500 2020 State Primary, November 3, applications from registered voters 2020 State Election or all 2020 to procure a mail-in ballot for the elections. Voters may also request Sept. 1 Primary Election – which ballots in Spanish, Chinese and faces a heated race for U.S. Sen- Vietnamese. ate race between Ed Markey and Voters may return their ballot by Joe Kennedy III and a few local mail using the prepaid envelope, at races, though many state offices an early voting location, or using are unopposed in the downtown the Election Department drop-box neighborhoods. located on the third floor of City As of Tuesday, the Boston Elec- Hall. City Hall is currently open to tion Department had received the public on Tuesdays, Thursdays more than 26,500 ballot applica- and Fridays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. tions. That number includes all On Wednesday, the City ballot requests: absentee, online/ released guidelines and prepara- emailed requests and the new mail- tions for the upcoming election – in vote option. which will be like no other. All registered voters have The Department is reminding early voting period and on Election Individuals can also decide to •Sat., Aug. 22, Copley Square received a vote-by-mail applica- residents that Saturday, August 22, Day. All poll workers will receive vote during the early voting period Library McKim Building, 11 a.m. tion in their mail boxes during the at 8 p.m. is the last day to register face shields, face masks, gloves, from Saturday, August 22 through – 7 p.m. week of July 20. The application is to vote and Wednesday, August disinfectant wipes, disinfectant Friday, August 28. Registered vot- •Sun., Aug. 23, Copley Square in a postcard format. To receive a 26, is the deadline to request a spray and hand sanitizer. Cleaning ers can vote at any of the early vot- Library McKim Building, 11 a.m. ballot, voters must first complete, vote-by-mail ballot. will take place at each site every ing sites. No excuse is required to – 7 p.m. sign and return the prepaid post- Due to COVID-19, the Election two to three hours. Voters waiting vote early. Boston City Hall will be avail- card application to the Election Department will implement health in line will be instructed to stand 6 Early voting in the downtown able for early voting too on Aug. Department by August 26 for the and safety protocols during the feet away from others and wear a will take place at the following 24, 25, 26, 27 and 28 at various face covering. places and times: hours – mostly 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Walsh Updates (from pg. 1) said. mobile testing team will be in dif- “We need people to fill out the of educating children; while also hybrid model as well as focusing He said that so far, $33 million ferent neighborhoods across the Census,” Walsh said. “Everyone giving them the technology while heavily on the remote learning has been raised for the Boston city every two weeks, bringing counts equally in our democracy.” we were sheltering in so they could aspect, as a switch may have to be Resiliency Fund, and more than tests to areas that need it the most. continue their learning at home.” made to completely remote learn- $24 million has been distributed to “Testing is one of the best tools we BPS UPSATES She said that since schools ing should the virus worsen in the nonprofits and organizations serv- have for stopping the spread of the Walsh announced last week that closed in March, more than 32,000 communities. ing youth, families and seniors. virus,” Walsh said. BPS was looking at a hybrid model Chromebooks and almost 1.4 mil- She said that parents will be More than 1500 meals a week The City will also be hosting a for students in the fall, where they lion meals have been distributed to able to choose between either the are being distributed to the City’s series of virtual panels about how would be split into groups and students across the City. She added “hybrid or remote model without seniors, and Lyft drivers have the virus has impacted its big- alternate remote learning and that more than 14,000 contacts losing their spot at their school,” delivered more than 2000 bags of gest sectors, including hospitality, in-person learning. Parents would with students have been made to and a survey will be released soon asking parents which they prefer food at no cost to the City, Walsh construction, retail, and the IT/ have the option to have their chil- provide support for mental health. for their children. added, which helps keep these tech industry. These forums will dren learn entirely remotely. “We learned a lot,” she said of “Over the last several months, drivers employed. Additionally, be “geared towards” college and “Keeping our kids safe is the this past spring’s remote learning we have witnessed the inequalities 100 food pantries and 18 farmers job training programs, Walsh number one priority,” Walsh said experience. “We know now that that existed in our community, but markets are open in the City. said, and experts in the industries last Friday. “We’re planning for many students struggle in this new have become exacerbated by the Other food access measures will be able to share latest market every scenario. We know that we way of learning,” and families COVID-19 pandemic,” Cassellius include working with Project trends as well as answer questions. will not start school this year with need more guidance to help their said. “As we reckon with decades Bread to increase SNAP enroll- Walsh also spoke about the all in-person learning.” students at home. of racial inequality and a systemic ment. “Food access is an equity importance of filling out the Cen- Walsh made it clear that he “It is clear that the best place oppression and as we ban together issue and we’ve been addressing it sus so the city is not undercount- does not want to see “an issue” for children to learn is at school, in a call to action so our children for a long time,” Walsh said. ed, as funds are needed to support made out of reopening schools. in a classroom, with their teacher,” inherit a better, fairer, and more He also added that the new every Boston resident. “Let’s think about how we reopen she said. “But…we will only bring just society, and as such, we at BPS schools safely.” He said if schools them back if it’s safe to do so. Safe- are keeping equity at the center can’t be reopened safely at all this ty is our top priority.” and are committed to rectifying fall, they will have to be reopened Cassellius said that BPS has the barriers and inequalities that been “planning for months” and at some point so the discussion exist in our policies, in our prac- gathering data from students, fam- needs to start now about how to tice, and one by one, because our ilies, and staff through surveys, as do it in the best, safest way. children deserve the opportunity well as walking through schools, and the access to an excellent and “We are not these other states looking at blueprints, and “evalu- where they’re seeing surges,” equitable education.” ating our spring remote learning.” She said that reinventing edu- Walsh said, “and quite honestly, She said that facility concerns public employees and people are cation is something that has to be such as water temperature, bath- done, because “we can’t just throw being completely ignored by gov- rooms, fixing windows, and order- up our hands and do nothing.” ernments in these other states. You ing HVAC units is something that She said that “our children don’t are not being ignored here in Bos- is being addressed by BPS, as is get a rewind. There’s no do-over.” ton.” working on signage. Walsh again asked for the BPS Superintendent Brenda She said meetings on reopen- reopening of schools to not be a Cassellius said that “it was’t easy ing safely have included voices of political issue, and to “keep the pivoting in four short days to families, students, teachers, school kids at the forefront” of the con- ensure food access to our fami- leaders, the Nurses Faculty Sen- versation. lies, to reinvent a whole new way ate, and other stakeholders. She said they are hard at work on the August 6, 2020 THE BOSTON SUN PAGE 5 Families, students have big decision to make on school in coming weeks

By Seth Daniel learning. Now, they are having plans have been presented, and weekends. Instead, they will use desks alter- many different meetings to review deadlines have been extended. That will also make way for a nating between groups. That way Families with children in the the plans and try to get input. Cassellius and Pust stressed this is final group of students who need no student is sharing a desk with Boston Public Schools (BPS) will “this is a difficult decision and just a draft, and they want more extra attention and might go another, and the desks remain a be facing a major decision in the it has weighed on all of us,” she information before they make a in-person up to four days a week. safe distance away. coming days and weeks regarding said. “I understand the concern decision. That group hasn’t been defined Another key operations for whether they want to choose to in the community and under- “We are just now starting to put and is dependent on space, but in-person hybrid and all-remote participate in a hybrid, in-person stand the real complex nature of the meat on the bones of this plan could include Special Education will be attendance and grading learning model for the fall, or to this decision. I want to assure the so we can safely re-open this fall,” students, English Learnings and policies. Grading won’t change opt-out and have their children community that the mayor, Health said Cassellius. vocational school students. that much from the standard learn in a complete remote envi- Chief Marty Martinez, myself, our Added Pust, “It’s not a final The physical buildings have teacher grading systems, with ronment. teachers and school leaders are draft but a plan. However, this is been worked on all summer to pre- progress reports and an A-F scale. Supt. Brenda Cassellius released putting safety as the number one 60 pages of our besting thinking so pare for some return of students in However, attendance will be put a draft plan with Senior Advisor far on all the challenges we have priority and we are really looking what will be a new and different on the Aspen system so it is used Tammy Pust on Tuesday night, and and wisdom we have brought to very carefully at the numbers and school world – especially for lit- universally. Last Spring, many held a media briefing on Wednes- be able to address these challeng- making sure we don’t get too far tle kids. The report indicated that were doing it differently and it was day prior to the School Commit- es.” ahead of ourselves…That’s why HVAC systems had been upgraded confusing. Remote learners will tee meeting Wednesday night. The The submission to the state will over the summer with better filter also be monitored using Google push is on currently as BPS pre- we have put this plan out there really only consider two options, systems, and Cassellius said they Classroom for engagement and pares to submit its initial plan on early to discuss it and get input.” Pust said, as bus transportation have identified spaces in buildings using Aspen for attendance. Monday, a plan that requires the Seemingly, the schools have makes it impossible under the cur- that just are not usable – such as Finally, Cassellius said they district to submit three plans - one been planning for the re-opening rent occupancy restrictions to ever classrooms that did not have win- would be measuring student prog- for all remote, one for a hybrid since June, even before last school transport every student to a build- dows or any ventilation. ress and social emotional well-be- model and one for all in-person year was over. Throughout July, ing for in-person learning. Bus Meanwhile, she said this entire ing in the first weeks of school. transportation is a key component summer, and right now, they Academically, they will use the dis- JUNES in that part of the discussion, as have been doing assessments of trict’s Illuminate platform to test buses will only be able to transport building windows and fixed or students to see where they are aca- Meetings begin with students, families, about 50 percent of their normal replaced windows that didn’t open demically – if they’ve progressed staff, district partners, and community student capacity. or couldn’t open. That is import- or fallen behind since COVID-19 members to gather input “That has a lot of ramifica- ant, she said, for ventilation. The hit. tions,” she said. “Think of it as plan also calls for school commu- “We’re going to need to know dominoes…The in-person plan nities to utilize outdoor classroom how schools are doing,” she said. JUNE 25 will be very short because it will options as much as possible in the The district will be contacting DESE announces guidance for say it is not possible. To do that warmer days this fall. each parent in the coming days and reopening of schools in September without transportation…To only Another physical plant aspect weeks to begin thinking about and get half those seats at a particular will be how far desks are spaced making the decision about remote time means it wouldn’t be logisti- apart, and BPS will stick with the learning or the hybrid model. To JULY cally possible to get them there.” six-foot distance model. However, comment on the district plan or Share reopening options with the So it is, the decision for parents they won’t remove desks from the ask questions, e-mail reopening@ community, request feedback will be to opt-in to the district’s classroomsAoU-NE_W181590_BWH-MGH-BMC_Diversity to make that spacing. bostonpublicschools.org. Newspaper Ad_3.998w x 5h_Color_WCROP_Print_V2_072320_HF.pdf 1 7/27/20 1:33 PM hybrid model – which still is not a done deal – or to opt-out and go JULY22 fully remote. School Committee presentation “Every family will get the on status of reopening plans chance to decide if they want to participate in the hybrid model or if they want to opt out and go fully JULY31 remote,” Pust said. “Every parent Decision is made about remote or has that option…If the science hybid model for reopening school says it’s safe, we will start with the hybrid model.” That will be a key decision Why have some communities not due to transportation and schoolC EARLY AUGUST been a part of medical research? building space. Once the districtM Families select remote schooling, knows how many students will notY You can help researchers develop new and better in classroom, or hybrid option be returning to the building, but treatments that benefit all of us. CM will stay home with remote learn- Many groups of people have been left out of MY ing, they can begin to plan at each research in the past. That means we know less about SEPTEMBER 1 individual school for the spaceCY their health. When you join the All of Us Research Students receive bus route Program, you'll help researchers learn more about necessary to accommodate in-perCMY- information and/or directions for son learning. The hybrid plan has what makes people sick or keeps them healthy. walking to school K students divided into two groups. JoinAllofUs.org/NewEngland Group A would attend school (617) 768-8300 SEPTEMBER 8 Monday and Tuesday, but learn Paras & Teachers report at home Wednesday, Thursday for the first day of school and Friday. Group B would learn *All participants will receive $25 after completion of their visit. To complete the visit, participants must create an at home Monday, Tuesday and account, give consent, agree to share their electronic health records, answer health surveys, and have their Wednesday, but learn in school measurements taken (height, weight, blood pressure, etc.), SEPTEMBER 10 Thursday and Friday. No one and give blood and urine samples, if asked. FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL! would be at the school on Wednes- All of Us and the All of Us logo are service marks of the U.S. day, as it would be sanitized and Department of Health and Human Services. cleaned, as it would also be on the PAGE 6 THE BOSTON SUN August 6, 2020 Crite Park designs set to be unveiled in person and online this month

By Seth Daniel a reveal meeting in person at the Park on Weds., Aug. 12, at 6 p.m. with a 3-D viewing stations at a Allan Rohan Crite Park was no social distance and the ability to more than a brick wall for decades ask questions about the design. until recent plans to overhaul it The rain date will be Monday, into another gem on Columbus Aug. 17, and a Zoom online meet- Avenue surfaced last year and have ing will take place on Weds., Aug. gone into overdrive this spring and 26, at 6 p.m. summer. She said a survey prior to the Such a bland tribute to a conceptual design indicated peo- world-renowned artist who por- ple wanted a spot with lots of trayed life in full color, was hardly shade, they wanted a tranquil spot acceptable for Southender Cheryl for respite, they wanted to honor Dickinson, and so she and other Allan Crite’s work, and they want- neighbors and the Ellis South End ed a place for community events. Neighborhood Association linked “We liked the idea of hav- up to bring the area to life. ing an active park, not a passive And judging by the designs of park,” said Dickinson. “People Monique Hall of BFC Group, that say not another pretty face; we is exactly what intends to happen say not another pretty space…For there. the emphasis on shade, the whole Dickinson said they will have perimeter will be large trees and A rendering of what is hoped that the new Allan Rohan Crite Park will look like on the corner of Columbus Avenue and Appleton Street. The Park has been in disrepair for many years, hardly a fitting tribute to a world-famous artist from the South End. A meeting to see the new designs will take place at 6 p.m. at the parkEst. on 1997Aug. 12. Est. 1997 we’ll get as large as we can afford. South End in an art walk. The have already raised. This week, We are taking down six trees and Museum of Fine Arts and the Afri- they have been to the South End putting up eight. Four of the exist- can American Museum of Arts will Landmarks Commission to present ing trees are dead though and all provide them. the plans and got positive reviews. of them haven’t been pruned since “These are six pieces that depict Now, they just need to see what the 1986.” the narrative Crite was aiming for community says and find a way to Inside, there will be three sepa- in his art – showing African Amer- pay for it. rate pergolas to protect people from ican people living in the South End “It’s time for us to start trying to the sun and to add a “living room” in the 1930s and 1940s,” she said. make this park a reality,” she said. “We’ll Take Your aspect to the space. Some laser cut To activate the park, they plan •Crite Park Board Members: aluminum placed above will allow to have several events, including Maryellen Hassell, Betsy Hall, Jen- Building’s Exterior From the sun to shine through and create an annual blockbuster Storytelling patterns on the floor of the park. Night. The first Storytelling Night nifer Girvin, Ryan Gossing, Regina The pergolas will also solve a prob- will feature speakers who knew Pyle, Paul Wilcox, Linda Esposito, Landmark Approval to lem that has been ongoing with Crite and will talk and tell stories Cheryl Dickinson, president. aphids landing on people sitting about him.? •Advisory Council below the Linden trees. The next step will be to apply Frieda Garcia, Councilor Ed Curb Appeal” To honor Crite, the space will to the Community Preservation Flynn, Gary Bailey, Anthony feature reproductions of six of his Committee for funding to supple- Gordon, Jackie Cox-Crite, Clare Carpentry & Painting most representative pieces of the ment the significant amount they Corcoran, and Charlie Rose. Masonry Restoration Roofing & Roof Decks Sealants & Coatings Officers potentially save shooting Sheet Metal Skylights & Windows victim’s life on Mass/Washington By Seth Daniel Full notifications for a homicide There have been no arrests had gone out upon arrival and made in the case, and social media Police officers from the D-4 Sta- seeing the injuries suffered by the sites indicated the man had been tion are being credited with poten- man, but upon reevaluation and shot in the leg and the head. Those tially saving the life of a shooting with the tourniquet applied, he posts also reported that others victim on Mass Ave and Washing- was able to be rushed to a hospital were in the car, including children, ton Street Aug. 2 when they quick- and saved. at the time of the shooting, but ly applied a tourniquet to severe Boyle said around 1:12 a.m. Boyle said there didn’t seem to be wounds he had from the gunshots. on Aug. 2, the ShotSpotter sys- anything about that in the report. Sgt. John Boyle said officers tem recorded gunshots near 1904 Boyle also said that applying a treated the man on the scene when Washington St. – which is the cor- they found him shot multiple times ner of Washington and Mass Ave tourniquet on scene has become and lying on the street bleeding in the South End. more common than one might expect as police all carry that badly. Officers from D-4 responded 888-DRY-NEST “The officers applied a tourni- and, upon arrival, observed the equipment since the Marathon www.eaglerestoration.com quet and it might have been the victim bleeding from multiple gun- Bombing incident. case that they were able to save shot wounds on the ground next The shooting is still under inves- Fully Insured and Licensed CS# 77808 HIC#138620 him,” said Boyle. to a vehicle. tigation and the man has survived.

August 6, 2020 THE BOSTON SUN PAGE 7

Southwest Corridor (from pg. 1) the corridor from Harcourt St. to to set up monthly park restoration Northampton St. in the South End, projects. The seed money from while PMAC advocates and advis- PruPAC was used to build fencing es all sections of the corridor. “at sensitive areas” that allowed The two organizations “seek to the plant materials to grow with- work together seamlessly,” Leon- out being “trampled on.” ard said, to “help channel the SWPC had become a 501(c) energy of users, friends, and vol- (3) nonprofit, which allowed it to unteers into active stewardship,” raise money. In 2010, Campan- according to the Southwest Corri- ello was a realtor with Coldwell dor Park website. Baker in the South End, which he Campanello said that the said gave him access to everyone SWCP’s portion of the corridor who lived and owned property was not always so inviting. When in the South End and St. Botolph he lived on Holyoke St. “right on area. “We designed a card and sent the park” in the 1990s, he adopted about 1000 letters out to people a plant bed outside the dog park. asking for money,” he said, and “I enjoyed making it look pretty received about $10,000. good,” he said. “That was absolutely a great One of the nice aspects of the After four years of maintaining surprise to us all,” Campanello Southwest Corridor is the little his small area, he moved to Cali- said. “We didn’t know there were parks and squares located inviting- ly just off the path, like Braddock fornia. When he returned to Bos- that many people in the neighbor- Park here with its flowing water ton and moved near Claremont hood who cared about the park.” fountain on a hot and sunny day. Park in 2003, he started taking Every year since, SWPC has care of the park outside his house. reached out to the community ask- ridor, including the grass strip At that time, he said the corri- ing for donations, except this year between the sidewalk and street dor “looked like an abandoned because of the virus. at Harcourt St “that was just a parking lot” with “invasive trees, “I always thought it was a crime dead zone—not even grass, just dead zones; half the shrubbery that such good property had gone weeds,” he said. “Starting in April, had died, and the other half were to waste,” he said of the original we cut it in half and put a stone path in and started really planting Shown above, a biker rides up to on the way out. There were grass state of the park. “There isn’t a Massachusetts Avenue with the Back on Memorial Day.” A “wall of areas that had lost all living mate- lot of green space in the City of Bay in the distance. To the right, a flowers” is now planted, including rial. It became a small sand lot,” Boston,” he added, and here was Boston rabbit. Rabbits have become he said. a “perfectly good green space that purple and yellow daisies, iron- a much more common sight on the He said it took three years just was completely neglected.” weed, and Jo-Pye weed. “It’s really Corridor lately, which isn’t a good to remove the invasive trees that So far, 86 trees have been plant- quite stunning,” Campanello said. thing for the lettuce farmers. had grown in the park, with the ed and Section One of the park Shrubs, grass, and a mix of annu- help of Betsy Johnson, who was between Camden St. at Northeast- als and perennials were also plant- ping, and snow shoveling. Since Apartments, which has been going on the Prudential Project Advisory ern University and Harcourt St. at ed to keep it looking great, even in the MBTA owns the land, they are on for several years but is not active Committee, (PruPAC). Copley Place, there are 60 differ- the winter. responsible for trash pickup and this summer due to the virus. “She got on the PruPAC board ent species of trees, a number of Campanello also said that resto- other repairs that may be neces- PMAC also runs a mini-grant and arranged for the park to get hedges, and more than 400 species ration of the corner pieces at West sary. program in partnership with mitigation funds for the expansion of plants, Campanello said. Newton St. is also in the works. He Leonard said that while the Northeastern University that sup- of the Prudential Center,” Cam- Campanello, who said he’s said there is a “lot of dead materi- “network of volunteers who ports youth and family program- panello explained. “That was the “been a gardener as long as I al, open space, and weeds,” and do hands on work falls under ming in the Southwest Corridor original source of revenue.” remember,” has taken gardening work will continue on that section [SWPC],” many of those mem- Park, “nurturing the next genera- Campanello became president classes at the Arnold Arboretum, for the next two years. bers are also members of PMAC, tion of park leaders,” she said. of the SWCP in August of 2008. at a community college on Long “Hopefully there are plans afoot which oversees the volunteer work In the South End, Inquilinos “The first thing I did [was] I real- Island, and various other places. for the Northampton Green,” and ensures open communication Boricuas en Acción (IBA) has ized that people were not going to As a former science teacher as well, Campanello added. He said that around issues of maintenance and organized the painting of a mural give money to the park to restore he said his interest in horticulture part of the area is where Martin upkeep. by children as well as last year’s it unless they saw that someone really helped him dig into these Luther King resided when he lived As far as public safety goes, round of garbage can and electri- cared for it,” he said. planting and restoration projects. in Boston, adding that it is hope- Leonard said PMAC partners cal box paintings in the park. Unit- He connected with social ser- He said that more projects are ful that restoration of the park will with other groups and agencies, ed South End Settlements has also vices organization Boston Cares still on the horizon for the cor- happen when other construction is including state and city officials, to held a paint night for people to done and they can figure out how ensure that the park remains safe. come out to the park and paint on to get water to the park for the Volunteer safety is also empha- canvases, and Boston Explorers, new plantings. sized, she said. headquartered in Jamaica Plain, Aside from the active planting, “We look at what we can do to has used the park as a place to bike PMAC works alongside SWPC to advocate for bigger services and and explore. orchestrate community events in solutions around who is doing Many residents and neighbors the park as well as rally volunteers things around addiction and have shown interest in contrib- to help with the planting and the recovery,” she added. uting to the Southwest Corridor upkeep. Jennifer Leonard said that “Our membership overlaps in Park in some way over the years, PMAC’s mission includes “advis- terms of conversations,” she said. and a large network exists to help ing, advocacy, and action,” which A conversation may be started at ensure it stays welcoming for years includes running youth and family a PMAC meeting, opened up to a to come. From neighbors pitch- programs every year. broader network of people, and ing in, to college and corporate Many would argue that main- be brought back. As an advisory groups coming out for large volun- tenance and public safety are key group, this is the structure that is teer days, those who have gotten factors in the upkeep of a healthy typically followed by other parks involved in the betterment of the park. Leonard said that the state throughout the city, Leonard said. park “love our story,” Leonard Department of Conservation and Some of the community events said. Recreation (DCR) provides a orchestrated by PMAC include “I think everybody who touches “majority of the maintenance,” a children’s garden at Jackson the park just loves the story.” Linda Seaver waters her garden plot in one of the community gardens Square by the Mildred Hailey near Massachusetts Avenue. such as grass cutting, hedge clip- PAGE 8 THE BOSTON SUN August 6, 2020 (BFIT, Pg. 9 Restoration on Shaw 54th Memorial moves forward

By Dan Murphy “We’re in the process of care- The approximately $3 million fully removing every stone at the restoration of the bas-relief monu- As the ongoing restoration of plaza level – railings, urns and ment that pays tribute to the first the Robert Gould Shaw and the other elements - and last week, we Northern black volunteer infantry 54th Regiment Memorial on the took off the top of monument with unit enlisted to fight in the Civil Boston Common progresses, the the capstone,” Ben Rosenberg, a War and was created by American sculpture’s stonework is being principal at the structural-engi- sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens disassembled bit by bit before the neering firm Silman Associates’ marks a unique partnership bronze sculpture can be removed Boston office, said Friday. “Then between the Friends of the Public as one piece and taken off site to we’ll work down, removing stones Garden, the City of Boston, the be refurbished. from the back and the sides.” Museum of African American His- tory and the National Park Service. During this phase of the project, supplemental steel will be installed within the monument itself, fol- lowed by the installation of a protection system for the exist- ing beams within the plaza. The PHOTOS COURTESY OF BEN ROSENBERG monument will also undergo a The Robert Gould Shaw and the 54th Regiment Memorial on the Boston “cathodic protection run,” Rosen- Common undergoing restoration work. berg said, during which an electric work proceeds,” Rosenberg said. added, a steel cage will be installed current will be discharged through “To date, we’ve really concen- around the sculpture before it can its steel beams to prevent addition- trated on the beginning of stone be removed and transported to al corrosion (although the method removal to clean and replace it and Skylight Studios in Woburn for can’t remedy existing conditions). the initial stages of bronze resto- refurbishing. The monument will also be “ret- ration, such as documenting and Restoration work on the Shaw ro-fitted seismically” to withstand photographing [the sculpture] and 54th Memorial commenced at the earthquakes, Rosenberg said. protecting it in advance of taking it end of May after construction “We think about the project off site to get it restored.” restrictions due to the pandemic as having interrelated scopes that Once all the bronze work is were lifted, and it’s expected to dance around each other as the revealed and accessible, Rosenberg wrap up around November.

SELDC grants mandatory Certificate of Exemption to Villa Victoria Center for the Arts

By Lauren Bennett tificate of Exemption on August 4 This project has come before nos Boricuas en Acción (IBA), awarded a nearly $11 million con- to raze the former church and par- the Commission several times, and which provides education, arts tract to carry out the Phase One The South End Landmark ish house at 85 West Newton St., several community meetings have programs, affordable housing, and work, Munkenbeck said. District Commission (SELDC), home of the Villa Victoria Center been held regarding the building. more to the community. During the initial weeks of against their wishes, granted a Cer- for the Arts. The building is owned by Inquili- The Commission’s goal (and work, it was discovered that the IBA’s original goal) was to save basic structure of the bell tower the building, but IBA has repeat- was not sound, and many other edly stated that their only option structural issues were discovered, is to demolish it and build anew, deeming the building unsafe. and on August 4, the organization formally requested a Certificate of The project team has returned Exemption from the SELDC. to the SELDC several times with “This has been a long and hard photos and letters from engineers process for all of us,” IBA CEO stating the building is unsafe. Vanessa Calderon-Rosado said at In September of last year, the the hearing on Tuesday night. She City condemned the building and thanked the Commission for their IBA was told to evacuate the as it work and engagement during this was unfit to be occupied. process. In December, IBA received a vio- “The building at 85 West New- lation notice from the City of Bos- ton played a critical role to IBA,” ton Inspectional Services Depart- she said, as it was home to many ment (ISD) stating that IBA’s only of IBA’s programs and functioned two options were to restore the as a community center. Issues with building or to demolish it. this building have been going on IBA has stood by the position for quite some time, as the histor- that their only option would be to ic church was not properly taken demolish the building and build care of over the years. a new one, as restoring the exist- Peter Munkenbeck, IBA’s devel- ing church would cost double the opment consultant, explained that original budget and there weren’t in 2016, IBA embarked on a mis- enough funds to cover the addi- sion to restore the historic church tional costs. and make it safe and usable for Back in December, the Com- years to come. The project was to mission had asked the project be done in two phases, beginning team to come up with alterna- with the building envelope. tives to demolishing the building, The SELDC had approved the as they would rather see it pre- scope of work for Phase One, served. While the Commissioners and in the fall of 2017, Shawmut Design and Construction was (SELDC, Pg. 9) August 6, 2020 THE BOSTON SUN PAGE 9 Two homicides on Mass/Cass in one week define recent uptick in violence

By Seth Daniel Michael Dezrick, in Clifford Play- ever be the same.’’ ing from an apparent stab wound. up to what’s going on in the neigh- ground, when she returned to con- Fox also had her bail revoked The victim was transported to a borhood, which has grown quite The Mass/Cass area has been hit front him after having a dispute on three open cases: two in Bos- local hospital where he was later violent over the past few months. with two homicides this week, one with Mr. Dezrick earlier in the ton Municipal Court (receiving a pronounced deceased. The victim “From engaging with the peo- on Friday near the Southampton evening. stolen motor vehicle and carrying has since been identified as Damien ple I see around BMC, I regularly Shelter and a second on Tuesday “My office will hold those who a dangerous weapon, a knife); and R. Hughes, 27, of Boston. hear horrible stories about group morning in Clifford Park – both commit violence and steal lives one case in Dedham of carrying a Following the incident, an inves- attacks and robberies daily,” he hot spots on the corridor that have accountable for their actions,’’ dangerous weapon. tigation culminated in the iden- said. “I hope that the two murders seen an uptick in violence over the said DA Rachael Rollins. “Mr. Last Friday morning, July 31, a tification of the suspect as Cesar are a wake-up call that more has to past year in particular. Dezrick’s life ended over an insig- Chelsea man was charged with the Valentin, 34, of Chelsea, who was be done and that we need to con- On Tuesday, a woman who nificant argument. His family will murder of a Boston man outside placed under arrest in the area of tinue asking if placing all services stabbed and killed a 48-year-old never see him again, because of an the Southampton Shelter in the 39 Boylston St. in Boston at about into Newmarket makes homeless Boston man in Clifford Park was argument. We must start seeing the Mass/Cass area. 11:51 a.m. on Friday, July 31. Val- people safer. I fear is that unless arraigned in the Roxbury Divi- humanity in each other and learn- At about 7:27 a.m., officers entin is expected to be arraigned something is caught on camera like sion of Boston Municipal Court ing to de-escalate and walk away. assigned to District C-6 (South Bos- in Roxbury District Court on the the 2019 Correction Officer inci- on murder charges and ordered Instead, these two families like so ton) responded to a radio call for a charge of Murder. dent, the homeless people residing held without bail by Judge David many others before them, are inex- person stabbed in the area of 112 Worcester Square resident Desi within Newmarket and Mass/Cass Weingarten. tricably tied to each other based on Southampton St. On arrival, officers Murphy said he hopes that the will remain out of sight and out of Mary Fox, 38, of Boston, is a tragedy. None of their lives will located an adult male victim suffer- recent violence might wake people mind for Boston residents.” alleged to have fatally stabbed

SELDC (from pg. 8) expressed their understanding for Commissioner John Freeman has been salvaged from the exist- that there is a need to “push hard- the original goal of restoring the the budgetary limitations of IBA, clarified that the demolition would ing building, and Amodeo suggest- er on remedies that don’t require building before we found out the an organization that provides so be exempt from SELDC review, ed some sort of public display for absolute demolition. I think this conditions of the building.” She much to the South End communi- but any new building proposed for the new building that would pro- is terrible precedent and I urge the added that “we look forward to ty, they stood firm in their mission the site would absolutely be sub- vide information on the historic Commission to keep their hand working with you on the replace- to follow the guidelines and make ject to review by the Commission. church. on the level to drive review of the ment of this building,” referring to sure the historical district is pre- Amodeo said that the Commis- “This building is one of a kind,” replacement. Our biggest fear is the Commission. served. sion did not feel they had appro- Amodeo said. “The documenta- that other organizations that have Cirbus reported that the SELDC As the Sun reported in Decem- priate documentation at past tion and an exhibit utilizing some challenges with historic buildings” received 36 letters of support for ber, Commissioner John Amodeo hearings, because previous ISD of the key examples of that docu- will end up in the same situation, IBA, and the Commission unan- told the team that in order for the notices said that the two choices mentation would be really import- he said. imously voted to grant the man- Commission to release its purview were to either repair the building ant just to inform people of the “This process has been very datory Certificate of Exemption, over a historical building in the or demolish it. district.” difficult for us,” Calderon-Rosa- with Hunt responding yes “only district, it needs to be “absolutely “Staff has determined this cer- While that cannot be made into do responded. “We have taken because we have no choice.” sure” that criteria are met to issue tificate meets the requirements of an official motion because of the this process with respect and with the Certificate of Exemption. a mandatory certificate of exemp- request for a Certificate of Exemp- tion,” said Preservation Planner At the August 4 hearing, tion, the Commission strongly Munkenbeck discussed the most Mary Cirbus. urged the project team to consid- “Despite the fact that we seem recent notice from ISD which he er something like that, but it will to have no choice in the matter… GARY DRUG said stated that there were “no this is very disappointing,” Com- be further discussed once a new For over 75 years, Gary Drug has been serving the options…other than to demolish” missioner Hunt said. “I’m not building is proposed and brought residents of Beacon Hill, the West End and the Back Bay. the building. happy about it at all as a member before the Commission. Amodeo asked why the parish of this Commission that is here to Greg Galer, Executive Director house was included in the ISD letter, protect historic structures. I think of the Boston Preservation Alli- Stay Home, Stay Safe as it is not in the same situation as it’s a darn shame that we got to ance, said that it is “unfortunate” the rest of the building. this point after 40 years that noth- that ISD was not at the hearing to CALL US Munkenbeck said that ISD ing was done to maintain that address questions and concerns. “regarded it to be as one build- building, and now we are in this He said the situation with this Your Neighborhood PharmacY ing.” He also said that “the massive situation.” building is “a sign that we need to wall which supports the roof of the Other Commissioners agreed, do a better job of taking care of church on one side is sort of com- and Commissioner David Shep- our historic buildings. This is an promised,” and “on the other side is perd wondered if any materials important lesson to learn.” NEIGHBORHOOD a party wall from the parish house.” from the existing building could be He accused IBA of not having Commissioner Catherine Hunt salvaged to use in the new build- a “desire” to come to a resolution DELIVERY SERVICE agreed with Amodeo: “the parish ing. on the restoration and that IBA house is certainly not in the same Munkenbeck said things like “waited it out and allowed con- MONDAY THRU FRIDAY dire straits as the rest of the build- stained glass, several of the pews, tinued deterioration.” He added ing. railings, and pallets of blond brick Delivering Your Medication The Commission has gone have been saved and they are through several steps to ensure this intending on incorporating them And Other Essential Items into the new design. SERVICES outcome was the only one available, Shepperd also asked why the and had the protocol reviewed. Commission shouldn’t just vote Store Hours: Mon - Fri 8am-8pm Amodeo said that the City of Bos- to demolish the building, because JOHN J. RECCA ton law department advised the that way, they would have a say in Commission on this issue, and they PAINTING Sat & Sun 8am-6pm what happens with the demolition. Interior/Exterior came to the conclusion that “if the Freeman responded by saying Commercial/Residential applicant presented a violation from that the “reasons to not demolish Fully Insured Copy & Fax Service • Neighborhood Delivery Service ISD that was certified that demoli- are still in effect.” He said the only tion was the only alternative, then Quality Work thing that has changed from the We accept most prescription drug plans we are required to provide a Certif- point of view of the Commission Reasonable Rates icate of Exemption,” he said. “That is that “…we have this mandatory Free Estimates Let Gary Drug Be Your Neighborhood Pharmacy is not to say we approve the demo- exemption.” [email protected] 59 Charles Street • Phone 617-227-0023 • Fax 617-227-2879 lition of the building, but they are Freeman added that he would exempt from our review.” like to see an inventory of what 781-241-2454 PAGE 10 THE BOSTON SUN August 6, 2020

Attention to Detail Back to School…at a five-star hotel? By Penny Cherubino Some colleges surprise residents with hotel plans THIS WEEK'S ANSWER

Dan Murphy, Lauren Bennett bad or both. ing City of Boston approval.” and Seth Daniel So far, Emerson College and The students will live in rooms on Northeastern University have been floors five through 14, and other Plans for college and univer- the most active in Bay Village, St. than “Emerson student hotel res- sity students have begun to settle Botolph, Fenway and the Back Bay idents,” no other visitors will be into the neighborhoods this week, – securing a variety of locations for permitted on those floors. surprising some and causing all to students to live and to take classes. “This decision has been made pause and think about what such A representative from Emer- in order to de-densify housing on a massive amount of students son College told the Sun that for Emerson’s Boston campus,” the in hotels, residential apartments the fall semester, it hopes to house College said. “The College con- and even the Boston Symphony 208 residents and eight resident sidered a number of options and Orchestra building might mean for assistants at the W Boston hotel on quality of life – whether good or Stuart Street in Bay Village “pend- (Back to School, Pg. 11)

Real Estate Transfers BUYER 1 SELLER 1 ADDRESS PRICE

BACK BAY Zhou, Xu Rodriguez, Edward 261 Beacon St #31 $636,000 Meghan C Kelley FT SPK Properties LLC 306 Beacon St #2 $1,200,000 Meghan C Kelley FT Stephen P Kaufman T 306 Beacon St #3 $4,150,000 Wyllie, Ian Millington Angela S 132 Commonwealth Ave #1 $405,000 Zimbel, Benjamin Miller, Katherine 12 Dartmouth Pl #1 $870,000 Fortunato, Anthony J Ganea, Andrei L 364 Marlborough St #B2 $360,000

BEACON HILL Nordin, Martin Brett Ws Wong RET 31 Bowdoin St #4 $1,775,000 White, Pendelton P Rasmussen, Daniel 44 Cedar Lane Way $3,175,000 Ledger, Brian Morris, Elizabeth D 88 Mount Vernon St #31 $690,000 Kamar Maria Baloul RET Soulafa S Baloul T 45 Province St #2107 $1,100,000 David, To C Moskowitz, William 64 W Cedar St #2 $445,000

BAY VILLAGE/SOUTH END/KENMORE Schille, Taylor QBW LLC 145 North St #1 $700,500 The arched windows in the last clue are on 364 Boylston Pellegrino, Jason Patricia E Pellegrino T 14 Cazenove St $2,200,000 Street. Once, this building was an example of Harold Field AP 1 Charles LLC Matthews, William A 1 Charles St S #4G $1,900,000 Kellogg’s Art Deco design when he remodeled an optician’s Kumar, Dipak 435 Columbus Ave LLC 435 Columbus Ave #3 $825,000 store at this address. The Art Deco style remained until anoth- er remodel in the 1970s. Cook, Bridget R Curtis, Arielle B 20 Fayette St #2 $1,200,000 Yuan, Qianyu Cole Family Boston RT 247 W Newton St #247 $864,000 The next clue will be found in the Fenway area. Steckel, C Theordore Alice P Moy RET 146 Warren Ave #2 $625,000 Chen, Xiaoyne Zollner, Paul 478 Beacon St #6 $650,000 Do you have a favorite building or detail you would like fea- tured? Send an email to [email protected] with your Currey, David M Gimpelson, Lester A 7 Byron St #A $900,000 suggestion. NS Apartments LLC Fenway NS Acquisition 607-621 Columbus Ave $20,800,000 THIS WEEK'S CLUE Quek, Gabriel K Balough, Matthew 15 Concord Sq #2 $1,375,000 Englert, Michael Tromp, Steven J 314 Shawmut Ave #5 $917,500 Tessimond, Craig E Rosenfield, Joshua M 32 Traveler St #503 $1,030,000 Woo, Albert P Guo LLC 32 Traveler St #601 $1,130,000 Lockhart, Roy Susan E Yohalem T 675 Tremont St #1 $1,125,000 43 Union Park LLC Craig P Baskin 2016 43 Union Park #3 $1,626,800 Dolan, James O 96 Waltham Street NT 96 Waltham St #2 $1,597,000 Ebner, Scott R Katz, Paul 1180-1200 Washington St #320 $1,100,000 50 Clarendon LLC Peralta, Jose 18 Worcester Sq #3 $707,100 Caljouw, Ann-Margaret Casadaban, Leigh C 146 Worcester St #2 $1,025,000

WATERFRONT/DOWNTOWN Finley, John H Heines, Deborah M 717 Atlantic Ave #3C $830,000 Mcgovern, Matthew E Debenedictis, Danielle E 65 Commercial Wharf #1 $2,565,000 Young, Richard A Slauenwhite, Alfred 85 E India Row #6C $1,800,000 Young, Richard A Slauenwhite, Alfred 85 E India Row #6D $1,800,000 Gibson, Keira F Fitzgerald RET 121 Fulton St #5 $755,000 Li, Alice Li, Min 1 Nassau St #1006 $250,000 August 6, 2020 THE BOSTON SUN PAGE 11

Back to School (from pg. 10) selected the W Boston hotel for participated in the City Council’s could get out of control or there national chains like the W. “The site about plans for local universi- its close proximity to campus, and recent hearing on the reopening of would be more infections than only benefit to our community ties and colleges. The BPDA also its ability and readiness to support colleges and universities. there would be otherwise.” when universities go with a mul- said the matter had been discussed Emerson students residing there Martyn Roetter, chair of the Still, Roetter remains confident tinational chain is the jobs, which by Mayor Martin Walsh in a daily this Fall.” Neighborhood Association of that “good channels of commu- of course is both good for unem- briefing last week. Northeastern University has the Back Bay (NABB), sees how nications” between colleges and ployment, but disproportionately The BPDA said institutions are announced that rooms at both the housing students from the area’s universities, the city and civic affects underserved and under- required to engage with residents Westin Copley Place Hotel and colleges and universities at hotels organizations like NABB “could represented higher-risk communi- about their plans, protocols and the Midtown Hotel have been could be a mutually beneficial help deal with issues when they ties,” she wrote. how the housing or hotels would reserved for students this coming arrangement. arise in as cooperative a manner as Patten added that she believes be used. fall. Additionally, 147 apartments “It seems to me in the case of possible.” “universities are really trying to be “Every institution that requests in the Fenway and Roxbury have hotels in particular, it’s a win- Bethany Patten, president of the good citizens and contribute to the to utilize off-campus spaces for been leased through the universi- win, up-the-losses kind of a deal,” Bay Village Neighborhood Asso- common good,” and that BVNA temporary student housing is ty’s master-lease program, accord- Roetter said, and even if the costs ciation, anticipates both risks and leadership is scheduled to meet required to engage nearby resi- ing to a letter to the community for student housing are reduced advantages – economic, as well as with representatives from Emerson dents and civic associations about from John Tobin, Vice President from regular rates, “Hotels will social – of returning college stu- College soon to learn more about their plans and address potential of City and Community Engage- welcome a guaranteed stream of dents living in hotels. their plans for the fall. concerns,” read a statement from ment at Northeastern University. income for several months, if not “The economic risks are of “I can’t imagine that the stu- the BPDA. “Institutions must pro- He also said that the university has the whole school year.” course that universities are need- dents in the hotels will be any more vide a way for residents to reach made an agreement with the Bos- And some Back Bay businesses ing to bear the cost of utilizing or less supervised than they are in out directly if an issue arises. The ton Symphony Orchestra to lease could also benefit from the influx increased external spaces, which dorms, or are not when they live BPDA will be working closely with space in the Cohen Wing at Sym- of more students into the neigh- puts a strain on an already strained in private housing,” Patten wrote. institutions to ensure that this pro- phony Hall for additional student borhood because, as Roetter said, sector,” Patten wrote. “The eco- “All college campuses have resi- cess happens prior to any students dining space. “Students contribute in a signifi- nomic benefits are that there is dent assistants that manage under- moving into a temporary off-cam- “Our students will be expect- cant way to economy and the reve- more revenue to the hotels, and age parties, and other behaviors. pus housing site.” ed to adhere to all Northeastern nue of certain kinds of businesses.” area businesses that keeps them In a pandemic, I can only assume A Zoom call for the St. Boto- on-campus housing policies, prac- What concerns Roetter, mem- viable.” these roles will take on greater lph Neighborhood Association tice social distancing and wear face bers of NABB and Back Bay res- But Patten doesn’t expect that behavior monitoring responsibil- (SBNA) has been set up for next covering in public places,” Tobin idents most, however, is how stu- an influx of students would result ity. I’m not sure why there is an week, Aug. 11, with Northeast- wrote. “The students in both the dents might behave outside of the in a boon for businesses because assumption they will be unsuper- ern’s Tobin. On that call will be Westin Hotel and the Midtown hotels they will be living in, as well she doesn’t think retail will recov- vised. In fact, a well supervised State Rep. Jon Santiago and Coun- Hotel will also be monitored by as how their behavior could result er anytime soon and most schools group of students in a hotel seems cilor Ed Flynn. The announcement Northeastern residential staff.” in increased COVID-19 infection have required meal plans for stu- even more safe than individuals in from SBNA indicated they would Tobin also told the Sun that rates. dents, which would discourage a hotel who can chose how they talk about use of the Midtown he’d be “happy to set up Zoom “Our main concern is the them from dining out. want to behave regarding health Hotel, and other locations in the calls to talk with neighborhood actions of the students on the Meanwhile, Patten said she and safety.” area. associations, leaders, and elected streets and in areas where [the hopes that colleges and universi- The Boston Planning and officials about what the plans are,” schools] can’t control,” he said. ties would opt to house their stu- Development Agency (BPDA) said and said that Northeastern had “There are more risky things that dents at local hotels, rather than at it had posted guidance on its web-

For Record CORONAVIRUS be held on a request to remove •200 Stuart Street: Re-clad store- DESIGN REVIEW REPORTING WORK- UPDATE: Due to public one little leaf linden tree measuring front and install canopy. •224 Clarendon St.: Refurbish PLACE SAFETY CON- health concerns, the hearings 3 inches dbh (diameter at breast ADMINISTRATIVE REVIEW/ Clarendon Street entrance. CERNS that normally would be held on a height) at 465 Huntington Ave. APPROVAL •271 Dartmouth St.: Replace •Workers in any size organiza- week have been postponed or can- •95-97 Broadway St.: Create four twenty-four non-historic windows tion have options if they feel they celed due to the guidance of Mayor From an Aug. 6 Tree Removal masonry openings to explore struc- with aluminum clad windows. are being pressured into an unsafe Martin Walsh and the order of Gov. Hearing in Bay Village, 1 p.m., Aug. tural issues. •50-52 Commonwealth Ave.: At situation. Attorney General Maura Charlie Baker. Some meetings, how- 6 (online): The request is for the •16 Melrose St.: At front façade rear elevation attach air-condition- Healey has created resources for ever, have been moved to an online removal of one little leaf linden tree re-point and repair masonry ing condenser to rear wall. workers to report safety concerns or teleconference format under the measuring 18 inches dbh (diameter •132 Commonwealth Ave.: during reopening. They include an emergency order on the Open Meet- at breast height). The Aug. 11 Boston Landmarks Work: At rear elevation attach online form at the Attorney Gen- ing Law issued by Gov. Baker. Commission hearing is cancelled due air-conditioning condenser to rear eral’s website and a dedicated Fair From the Aug. 10, 11 a.m. CITY to no agenda items. wall. Labor hotline at 617-727-3465. CITY COUNCIL COMMIT- COUNCIL COMMITTEE ON People can also find those resources TEE ON GOVERNMENT OPER- GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS From the Aug. 12, 11 a.m. CITY BOSTON FIRE DEPART- by calling 311. ATIONS HEARING: The Commit- HEARING (Online): A hearing COUNCIL COMMITTEE ON MENT UPDATE ON PERMITS tee will hold a 10 a.m. online hearing regarding an ordinance restricting STRONG WOMEN, FAMILIES, Due to the harsh economic HOW TO REPORT A on Aug. 6 for an amendment to the the use of chemical crowd control AND COMMUNITIES: A hearing impact of the COVID-19 pandem- PROBLEM PROPERTY Boston City Charter. The Chair of agents and kinetic impact projectiles. regarding the childcare crisis in Bos- ic on businesses, the Boston Fire Since taking office in 2014, the Committee and sponsor of the ton. The Chair of the Committee is Department is extending the expi- Mayor Walsh has made fixing qual- docket is Councilor Lydia Edwards. From the Aug. 11 Boston Art Councilor Breadon and the Sponsors ration date on all existing Place of ity of life issues a priority in his Commission Meeting, 4 p.m., are Councilors Breadon, Wu, and Assembly and Annual Permits from administration. From investing in From a Tree Removal Hearing in Online via Zoom: Campbell. June 30, 2020 to September 30, Public Works to making sure com- Fenway, Aug. 6 (online): •Existing Publc Art – Emancipa- 2020. Any issued Place of Assembly munity policing is a staple in every •11 a.m.: The hearing will be tion Group Statue; Online form for From the Aug. 12, 4 p.m. CITY Permit or Annual Permit stating an neighborhood, we are making sure held on a request to remove one the public to share thoughts on the COUNCIL COMMITTEE ON expiration date of June 30, 2020 will every neighborhood is clean, safe hedge maple tree measuring 3 inches future of Emancipation Group. EDUCATION HEARING (Online): now automatically be valid in the and a great place to live and work dbh (diameter at breast height) and From the Aug. 11 Bay Vil- A hearing regarding BPS preparation City of Boston until September 30, in. Unfortunately some properties in one sophora tree measuring 3 inches lage Historic District Commis- and planning in the event of extend- 2020. The invoices for renewal will Boston need more help than others, dbh at 100 Hemenway Street. sion, 4 p.m., Online via Zoom ed COVID-19 social distancing mea- be mailed out in mid-August, and and that’s why we are here. If you •11:30 a.m.: The hearing will (HTTPS://US02WEB.ZOOM. sures. the permitting cycle for both Place of know of a property that fits one of be held on a request to remove one US/J/84600286206): Assembly and Annual Permits will the following criteria: multiple calls honey locust tree measuring 4 inches DESIGN REVIEW From the Aug. 12 Back Bay Archi- become October 1 to September 30 to 911, one that’s blighted or just dbh (diameter at breast height) •6 Melrose St.: At front façade tectural Commission, 5 p.m., Online of the following year from this point a general concern, we encour- at 1340 Boylston Street. install sprinkler connection, fire bell via Zoom (HTTPS://US02WEB. forward. age you to reach out to your •Noon: The hearing will and strobe. ZOOM.US/J/88955732156): neighborhood liaison. PAGE 12 THE BOSTON SUN August 6, 2020

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