THURSDAY, March 11, 2021

Published every Thursday Serving Back Bay - South End - Fenway - Kenmore Violins & Vaccines Boston Hope Music moves fast to play live at mass vaccine sites

By Seth Daniel this week for folks waiting in line to get their COVID-19 vac- If the Boston Hope Music cine. With a nod to two previ- effort were described in musi- ous efforts they conducted – one cal terms, it would have to be with recorded performances at some sort of jazz piece due to the Boston Hope Field Hospital the improvisational nature and last year and the other an online the quick jumps from one place music lesson program taught to the other that the live music by New England Conservatory effort has displayed throughout (NEC) students for front-line the COVID-19 pandemic. healthcare workers – the latest Now, with safety protocols effort to play live during vacci- in place, Boston Hope Music nation sessions is being dubbed (BHM) has begun playing live BHM 3.0. string music at the Fenway Park “Having this music for those mass vaccination site – having already played two sessions there (Boston Hope Music, Pg. 8) Several musicians from Boston Hope Music gather before the first music session at the Fenway Park Mass Vaccination Site last week. The program has used music throughout the pandemic in an ad hoc way as ther- apy. First, at the Boston Hope Field Hospital last spring, then providing front-line health care workers with John Barros announces online music lessons, and now playing live at mass vaccination sites to take the edge off the experience. Fenway vaccination site to move to Hynes Convention Center campaign for Mayor with a strict 12 percent capacity the Fenway site will be Saturday, By Lauren Bennett ton’s first Chief of Economic limit,” Baker said. “With that in March 27. By Seth Daniel Last Thursday, Gov. Charlie Development under Mayor Mar- mind,” he said, the state has been “All individuals that were vac- Baker announced that the state’s As the only person in the Bos- tin Walsh – a post he recently in conversation with the Red cinated at Fenway Park and have mass vaccination site at Fenway ton mayoral race who has previ- left to run for mayor full-time. Sox, CIC Health, which operates a second appointment scheduled Park will be moving to the Hynes ously run for the office, former A former community organiz- the site, and the other partners will be able to receive their sec- Convention Center in the Back Walsh Administration Economic er and executive director of the “about the future of that site.” ond dose at the Hynes,” Baker Bay on March 18. Development Chief John Bar- Dudley Street Neighborhood Baker said that the Hynes said. CIC Health will reach out “Red Sox opening day is com- ros announced on March 4 that Initiative (DSNI), which is only Convention Center will be ready to patients via email, “and there ing up on April 1, and our cur- he intended to make a run for a stone’s throw from the Mass/ to accept patients on Thursday, will be additional outreach to rent plan allows fans in the stand March 18, and the last day of mayor this year. Cass area of the South End, Bar- (Vaccinations, Pg. 4) Barros is described as a com- ros made the announcement at munity development leader, Restaurante Cesaria, the neigh- small business owner, and Bos- borhood restaurant in Dorches- ter he has owned and operat- Essaibi George’s ‘Get Boston Back to Business’ tour kicks off ed for the past two decades. By Lauren Bennett efforts and what kind of support ment. “Of course we’re talking Barros ran for mayor in 2013, they’re looking for following the about recovery, but we’re tak- but lost out in the Preliminary City Councilor At-Large COVID-19 pandemic. ing it a step further and really Election, and then supported and mayoral candidate Annissa “Since the beginning of this getting at the root issue of rede- Walsh – later joining the adminis- Essaibi George has embarked tour, I’ve heard directly from signing our economy to work tration as the Chief of Economic on a “Get Boston Back to Busi- our city’s small businesses about for everyone. I look forward to Development. He has been there ness” tour, where she visits local the real challenges they’ve faced continuing these important con- the last seven years, but said he businesses across the city to chat before and during this crisis,” is ready to take what he learned with owners about recovery Essaibi George said in a state- (Essaibi George, Pg. 7) “I learned a lot in 2013,” he said. “It was a great race and a fun race. Not all candidates enjoyed it, but I enjoyed it. I Back to the race! John Barros enjoyed talking to people and J.J. Foley’s will celebrate St. Pat’s in moderation once again pins his ‘Barros for being in living rooms and kitch- By Seth Daniel – one year after St. Patrick’s South End annual go-to pub for Mayor’ button on his lapel March ens. As you know now we’re Day became the first celebration St. Patrick’s Day. 4, shortly before announcing going to have to start this race Irish step dancing and echoing that fell victim to the scourge of Last year was just such a time, that he would be running again with less kitchens and less liv- live music from the old sod won’t COVID-19. when the South Boston St. Pat- for mayor this year. In 2013, ing rooms. The conversations be available, but this year green he ran in a crowded Mayoral “Half of St. Patrick’s Day will rick’s Day Parade was cancelled Preliminary Election, but did not masks and Guinness will abound be better than no St. Patrick’s prevail to the General Election. (Barros, Pg. 5) at J.J. Foley’s in the South End Day,” said Mike Foley, of the (J.J. Foley’s, Pg. 4) PAGE 2 THE BOSTON SUN March 11, 2021 editorial

WHAT ARE THEY THINKING? Guest Op-Ed Patrick Henry, the fiery American patriot and orator during the American Revolution, famously said, “Give me liberty, or give me Rollins in Support of H.R. 1280 – George Floyd Justice in Policing Act death!” By DA Rachael Rollins targeted harm and oppression. violence, and escalation in their However, Repubican governors in some of our Southern and Mid- This bill improves the ability of encounters with poor, Black western states have, under the guise of “freedom,” given that phrase America as a whole is just individuals and communities to and brown communities. By during the current pandemic a 21st century twist: beginning to recognize what seek accountability for abuses of acknowledging the systemic rac- “Give us liberty AND give us death!” Black and brown people have power and civil rights violations ism built into the very fabric of Ever since COVID-19 first was discovered, there have been a lot of known for generations – that committed by members of law our criminal legal system and the unknowns about the disease and how it is transmitted. Scientists and law enforcement and the crimi- enforcement. It reinforces the law enforcement agencies that medical professionals still are discovering new things about this bug nal legal system do not treat all core belief that those who serve are entrusted to serve and pro- and no doubt will continue to do so for years to come. people equally. As leaders and in positions of authority should tect every community, but often However, there is ONE thing about which there is now universal elected prosecutors work to cre- be held to a higher standard. The have tensions within diverse acceptance: Masking is THE most effective means we have for stop- ate more just and equitable sys- majority of the police officers and communities across the country, ping the spread of this terrible disease. tems at the local level, the George law enforcement partners that we have begun walking the long Some Republican governors have refused to order public mask Floyd Justice in Policing Act of my staff and I work with every- path to reconciliation and heal- mandates for reasons that clearly are about politics and have nothing 2021 is working at the national day meet this high expectation. ing. I want to thank the Massa- to do with the health and safety of their citizens. level to do the same. This legisla- They represent their agencies and chusetts congressional delegation They make the argument that they want to reopen their states tion is an important step toward their badge with honor, exhibit- for unanimously supporting this because the economic benefits outweigh the potential negative health addressing systemic racism and ing cultural competence and bill, and I urge the Senate to take consequences. That, at least, is a debatable point. abuses as a country while striv- restraint in all of their encounters swift action and send it to Presi- However, the need to wear masks during a pandemic that features ing to build greater trust in our with community. This federal dent Biden’s desk. a virus that is spread by airborne particles from our noses and mouths criminal legal system and help- legislation takes steps to address is not debatable. More to the point, requiring citizens to wear masks ing acknowledge our nation’s the actions of the outliers, those Rachelk Rollins is the District is not inconsistent with “reopening” states’ economies. A state can painful origins and history of officers who display malice, hate, Attorney for Suffolk County. still allow all of its businesses to operate fully AND also require that everyone wear masks at all times. President Joe Biden remarked that these governors, mostly notably Guest Op-Ed Bill Abbott of Texas and Kristi Noem of South Dakota, are “nean- derthal” in their thinking. Although the pundits quickly joked that Harriet Tubman Day – Honoring her legacy by working toward equality Biden gave the Neanderthals (who became extinct, by the way) a of hate. These images which George Floyd’s murder, protests bad name, it is no laughing matter that their dangerous policies will By Maicharia Weir Lytle included a man carrying the across the country promised a lead to entirely preventable deaths in their states, exposing front-line How will you commemo- confederate flag into the Capi- long overdue response to system- workers, first-responders, and healthcare providers to unnecessary rate Harriet Tubman Day? The tol, confirmed the existence of ic racism and a commitment to risk of harm. March 10 holiday has been in white supremacy that prevails reflect on our individual biases. Ms. Noem’s state of South Dakota for example, has the fifth-high- existence since 1990 when it was 108 years after Harriet Tubman’s Today, remnants of widespread est COVID death rate and second-highest infection rate among the signed into law by then President death. How far have we really calls to action remain in the 50 states. George H.W. Bush. And while come to ensure future genera- wake of the “Black Lives Mat- Every state has speed limits, stop signs, and red lights on its high- this annual observance doesn’t tions won’t face the same injus- ter” movement: signs placed in ways. Every state requires every citizen to wear pants in public at all get as much attention as other tices that she encountered in her store windows, on car bumpers, times. The suggestion that a mask mandate during a public health holidays, I wonder if more peo- lifetime? and on lawns in affluent neigh- crisis represents an impingement on personal freedom is absurd on its ple will pause this year to reflect In many ways, 2020 and the borhoods. Beyond these symbols face (no pun intended). on Harriet Tubman’s legacy. first weeks of this new year pro- of support, we need to continue We are fortunate that in Massachusetts and surrounding states, Her remarkable life and con- vided clarity – 20/20 vision – that the push toward justice, and to masking at all times has been widely-accepted since the beginning of tributions to humanity became revealed the work we still have call on our political, business, the pandemic. We have a governor and a public health infrastructure more widely known in 2019, ahead of us. Against the back- and community leaders to act. that have left no doubt about the need for everyone to wear masks with the release of the feature drop of a pandemic and political Now more than ever, we must while among others. film “Harriet” that endeav- unrest of historic proportions, speak up for social justice as There may be a lot of unknowns about COVID-19, but the efficacy ored to explore her life – an the country witnessed the killings COVID-19 continues to reveal of wearing masks is not one of them. untold American story. Born of George Floyd, Brianna Tay- inequities in health care, educa- into slavery in Maryland, Ara- lor, and Ahmaud Arbery. Many tion and economic mobility that minta or “Minty,” as she was Americans were confronted with disproportionately effect people known before taking the name a brutal reality that generations of color. The policies, laws, and Harriet to honor her mother, of Black people have regularly systems that reinforce oppressive endured unimaginable atroci- endured. ties, eventually fleeing for her In the weeks that followed (Op-Ed, Pg. 3) freedom. She continued to risk her life as a “conductor” on the Underground Railroad, helping approximately 70 slaves navigate the long and dangerous journey to freedom. There is still much THE BOSTON SUN that we can learn from Harriet President/Editor: Stephen Quigley Tubman, and aspire to, based on Marketing Director: Debra DiGregorio her courage, conviction, intelli- ([email protected]) gence, and determination. The recent insurrection at the Art Directors: Kane DiMasso-Scott, Scott Yates Capitol showcased jarring imag- Reporters: Seth Daniel, [email protected] es of racism and elevated levels Lauren Bennett, [email protected] March 11, 2021 THE BOSTON SUN PAGE 3

Guest Op-Ed The Verbal Stew Lexicon

By Alison Barnet placed living room, hardwood to-do. Market rate (a term even them the concept that living in a of a young master of the uni- floors, private deck, and direct colder than unit) is never pejo- rented apartment can be a viable verse who’s already brimming The subject is light. As in access parking. $3 million+ rative the way affordable and option. Homeownership is now over with self-importance. It’s a shedding light on the words we And the neighborhood around subsidized are. Even liberals feel everyone’s goal and we’ve started massage for a buyer who doesn’t use. This new lexicon could also it will be described as “vibrant.” free to describe people by say- thinking there’s something wrong need another massage. He be called ‘The Emperor’s New ing, “Well, you know, she lives with being a tenant. “He’s just a looks at the LUXURY TOWN Clothes.’ •Affordable/Unaffordable in affordable housing.” Afford- renter,” condo owners say with HOMES FOR SALE sign post- •Apartment and Unit Some developers of condo able is a negative and often syn- disdain of a poor shlump without ed on a dilapidated dump and I suppose the word apartment, complexes have the rudiments onymous with diverse—if there a granite countertop or a back- sees a “fireplaced living room” yard parking spot. when first used, sounded cold, of a social conscience—or are are any non-white people in the with bamboo floors and maybe but nothing sounds colder than forced to have one—and set aside complex, this is where they live. How about worth? Condo owners are always saying their an onyx bath—they’re the latest unit. Cold and faintly obscene, as a small percentage of affordable •Landlord/landlady/rent/ thing. Sorry, but my own defi- in “How big is your unit?” Like it place is worth so much more than units; in other words, living spac- tenant nition of luxury involves a his- or not, the world at large has put it was when they bought it. But to es for people who can’t afford the The first of the month has lost tory—not a dump one day and all of us in units. Consider: only its punch, because the concept those of us who’ve been around a unaffordable units that people in lavish loft the next. I also think a few years ago, utility compa- of landlord, landlady, rent, and while, its worth is just about what more fortunate circumstances the real luxury is space—does nies sent bills to apt. 2, and now, can afford. In the past, no one tenant are out, and condo owner it always was, except that the ask- anyone have it anymore? By the although we didn’t ask them to, ever used the word affordable in or, more typically, luxury condo ing price, assessments and taxes have escalated wildly. way, whatever happened to being they send bills to unit 2. Larger this context, because, generally owner, is in. (Aren’t all condos, Luxury is luxury because the embarrassed by pretentiousness? bills, of course. The assumption speaking, all housing was afford- no matter their condition, lux- Alison Barnet is a South End is that we all live in condomini- able—if not, how could anyone ury?) Countless former homes developers say it is, and say- ums—or soon will—and that’s afford to live here? While rents and apartment buildings have ing makes it so. Luxury is an resident and former editor of the exactly what corporations and in those days did, of course, vary, “gone condo,” and gone with added boost to the self-esteem South End News. developers hope, considering the no one considered a high rent great fortunes to be made off our normal and a low rent afford- backs. able. “A good deal” and “a bet- Long gone are the days of ads ter deal” sufficed. Ironically, in that read: today’s mean housing market, One BR apt. Top floor. Own- affordable isn’t affordable even er-occupied building. On bus to the people it’s purported to be line. $300/mo. htd. affordable to. To qualify for an An ad for the very same place, affordable apartment in many condoized, reads: new buildings, your income must Stylish two-bedroom unit be pretty high. ESCAPE FOR A boasting the finishes and conve- We never use the words unaf- nience in demand in this exciting fordable or unsubsidized to refer location. Features include a fire- to the living quarters of the well- LITTLE WHILE. We’ll take care of Op-Ed (from pg. 2) the rest. states, cripple our entire soci- school students; our Harriet Tub- ety from experiencing freedom, man Change Maker Series brings equity and equality. community members together OPEN ANY NEW CHECKING ACCOUNT As President and CEO of United for virtual dinners and discus- AND YOU’LL RECEIVE FREE: South End Settlements (USES), we sions focused on creating a more → Instant issue ATM/VISA® check card with likely celebrate Harriet Tubman just, equal and anti-racist soci- access to Allpoint® ATM network more than others given her con- ety; and on Harriet Tubman Day, nection to our organization and to we will pay tribute to her legacy → Online Banking, Bill Pay and e-Statements Boston. USES dates back to 1904, across our organization. → Mobile Banking, People Pay and Mobile when six Black women opened Harriet Tubman Day is Check Deposit the Harriet Tubman House at 37 more than a chance to remem- → Plus, get your FREE GIFT when you open Holyoke Street in the South End. ber an American heroine. Her any new checking account! At that time, it was a boarding story reminds us that individu- house that provided shelter, food al actions make a difference. It and clothing for women with lim- should spur all of us to recommit ited resources. Harriet Tubman to equity and inclusion in our was named honorary president places of business, our schools Simply Free Checking ∙ Interest Checking ∙ Premier Checking of the Harriet Tubman House and in our cities and towns. four years before her death on My hope is that we all take March 10, 1913. Over time, USES the time to honor Harriet Tub- expanded to include the Children’s man by sharing her story, pledg- Art Centre, Camp Hale, and sev- ing to speak out against injustices eral other settlement houses aimed and supporting ongoing efforts at serving the diverse needs of our toward equality. community. How will you commemorate NMLS # 457291 Today, we continue to honor Harriet Tubman Day? Member FDIC | Member DIF 800.657.3272 EBSB.com $50 minimum deposit required to open any checking account. Fees may reduce earnings. Other fees may apply, see schedule of fees Harriet Tubman through our for details. Gift is awarded when account is opened. Please note, in the event the value of the free gift exceeds $10, the bank is required work, supporting families and Maicharia Weir Lytle is pres- to report the gift value on form 1099-INT. The recipient is responsible for all applicable taxes. Bank rules and regulations apply. Ask a uniting communities for upward ident and CEO of United South representative for details. mobility. We share her story with End Settlements Facebook.com/EastBostonSavingsBank our early education and after PAGE 4 THE BOSTON SUN March 11, 2021 Walsh provides update on COVID-19, vaccinations; announces program to drive customers to local businesses

By Lauren Bennett to celebrate when the pandemic nity-based sites, nine pharmacy door dining program will return these next few months.” is over.” sites, and two mass vaccination on April 1, but he said he is try- For more information on the Mayor Martin Walsh held a sites at Fenway Park (soon to be ing to see if that can be moved to program, visit boston.gov/blocal. press conference on March 9, VACCINES relocated to the Hynes Conven- an earlier date. where he provided an update on Walsh said that as of March tion Center on March 18) and He also announced a new BPS COVID-19, vaccinations, small 3, more than 113,000 Boston the Reggie Lewis Center in Rox- app and program called B-Lo- As it nears a year since BPS business assistance, and Boston residents age 16 and older have bury. cal, which will “help residents has been open full time for all Public Schools (BPS). received their first dose of the Walsh said that the Reggie find local, Black owned, women students, Walsh said “It’s amaz- Walsh said that for the week COVID-19 vaccine, and more Lewis Center will “continue to owned, and Main Street busi- ing t see how far that our schools ending with February 28, the than 56,000 of Boston residents hold 50 percent of appointments nesses,” he said. “These are busi- have come.” seven day average positive test 16 and older have received both for local residents of color.” nesses in the heart of our city.” Last week, all Pre-K through rate was 3.6 percent, which he doses. Additionally, the city launched As part of the program, third grade students returned to said was “much better” than “We’re starting to see those a mobile vaccination pilot clinic “customers can collect ‘Boston in-person learning if their fam- numbers in January. However, doses moving quickly,” he said. at the Martin Luther King Tow- Points’ and use them like cash ilies chose that option. Starting he said that the city has seen “a “We’re working to increase ers in Roxbury, and this week, at participating businesses,” next week, grades 4-8 will be little bit of an uptick” in positive equity in this process for any the mobile clinic will visit Hyde Walsh said. The city will then joining them, and grades 9-12 cases over the past 10 days, and resident or community that may Park, and mobile clinics will also “reimburse small businesses for beginning the week of March is trying to “figure out what the face barriers,” Walsh said, add- come to more Boston Housing Boston Points redeemed at their 29, “permitting public health reasoning is for that.” ing that access is being focused Authority communities in the establishments.” data saying it’s safe,” Walsh said. Walsh also advised residents on in the Black, Latino, Asian, future. Walsh said that the city is “Right now, the numbers look to “be careful during St. Patrick’s and immigrant communities, “Over 100 senior buildings looking for businesses to partic- great.” Day,” and reminded people that and that work includes spreading in Boston are providing on-site ipate in this app, as it will help He said that all schools have the parade has been cancelled information about the vaccine vaccinations for their residents,” promote their businesses and safety measures in place, with again this year. and building trust. Walsh said, which includes both bring customers to local busi- students, staff, and teachers “Don’t put our progress at “We are focusing on access for public and private buildings. nesses across the city. wearing masks, staying separat- risk because people want to have the elderly right now and those As it’s been a tough year for ed, hand sanitizer stations, and a party at St. Patrick’s Day,” with disabilities,” Walsh added. LOCAL BUSINESSES small businesses, Walsh said this air purification systems in place. Walsh said, adding that there Right now, Boston has nearly 20 Walsh had previously program was designed as part of will be “plenty of opportunity vaccination sites: eight commu- announced that the city’s out- an effort to “get them through

J.J. Foley’s (from pg. 1) as COVID-19 set upon the City, “That was our first day that but patrons have to stay seated Corned Beef and Cabbage, as and then by St. Patrick’s Day – all we did just take-out,” he recalled. and everyone has to stay six-feet well as Shepard’s Pie – a paired was shut down. It was a striking “It was very, very strange not to apart. down menu from the traditional blow not only to businesses such have any Irish music going on “We have to kind of do the feast they serve, but again two as Foley’s in Boston, but also to and people not here relaxing same as everybody else is doing,” stalwarts that folks will likely the spirit of the City – which is and enjoying a Guinness. It’s sad Foley said. “We’ll have to play it look forward to, he said. annually one of the best cities in to think about, but things now by ear. We want people to be safe They will start the fun this Fri- the nation to celebrate St. Pat’s. seem to be getting better.” first. All the tables have to be six day, and go through St. Patrick’s Last year, St. Patrick’s Day was To that end, Foley’s will be feet apart. It will take away a lot Day, March 17. 2020 saw the cancellation of St. the first day that Foley’s attempt- ramping up this year for a cau- of the atmosphere you usually “The weather is supposed to Paddy’s Day celebrations at J.J. ed to do take-out only, and Mike tious and safe St. Patrick’s Day. have, but I think people under- be nice, and I hope to see a lot Foley’s and throughout the City, but those that missed their 2020 Foley said it was a surreal day They will have in-person dining stand that this year.” of green masks coming through that he won’t soon forget. The specials this year will be here,” said Foley. St. Paddy’s Guinness at J.J.Foley’s and the Guinness will be flowing, will have their chance at the 2021 stout next week.

Vaccinations (from pg. 1) make sure that they know where volume of vaccinations as are things going on at the ballpark at to when the site first opened ear- ic is located in the Back Bay, it is they need to go and when they currently being done at Fen- the same time. lier this year. a place for residents both inside need to be there,” Baker said. way Park, which is about 1500 “I just think from our point of Elliott Laffer, Chair of the and outside of the neighborhood “We’re grateful to Fenway a day,” Baker said. “And later view, the Hynes was a more per- Neighborhood Association of to get vaccinated. He said that and to the Red Sox, along with this spring, if our supply increas- manent solution that we could the Back Bay, said that the clinic after people receive their vacci- CIC Health for their incredible es, the Hynes has room to scale use on a go forward basis,” moving to the Hynes Convention nations, if they’re feeling well work operating this highly effec- up to more than 5000 shots per Baker said. “The bottom line Center will “make it more con- enough, they can patronize busi- tive, friendly, welcoming, and day.” was the fundamental purpose venient for those who live in the nesses in and around the Pruden- efficient site.” Baker said the decision to of Fenway Park is to provide a Back Bay,” and it’s also closer to tial Center and Newbury Street, To date, the Fenway site has move the site was based on sever- place for the Red Sox to practice a T stop than Fenway Park. which would be good for local administered more than 25,000 al factors, including that Fenway and play baseball.” “I think it’s positive,” Laffer business in the community. vaccinations, and Baker said that Park is a place where baseball He also said that there have said. “It is serving a useful role “We’re certainly pleased it’s by the end of the month, they are players practice as well as play been “tremendous drops” in while it can’t host conventions going to be there,” Laffer said. expected to have administered games, and Baker said that there both positive test results and hos- and it’s probably a better loca- “It’s not ours; it’s everybody’s.” more than 55,000 doses. is “a certain amount of potential pitalizations for the virus. “We’re tion as a building than Fenway “This month, the new Hynes confusion for people going there in a very different place now than Park.” site will ramp up to do the same to get a vaccine” if there are other we were then,” he said, referring Laffer said that while the clin- March 11, 2021 THE BOSTON SUN PAGE 5

Barros (from pg. 1) on Zoom are already vibrant. injustice with honesty, courage, The conversations on phones and compassion. We will make and we have been able to meet bold investments in community with people in rooms where we health, environmental justice, can socially-distance and be safe. affordable housing and our chil- I have a good understanding of dren’s education and well-being. where I have some traction in the I’m ready to meet this moment, city. I have a good understanding and I know Boston is ready to of how to have good conversa- meet this moment too.” tions with Bostonians, and I have He did address a question had the pleasure to serve after from the media about policing, 2013 as a City official…in City and said he had already had dis- government. I’m ready to start cussions with long-time police this campaign, and more impor- officers – particularly officers of tantly I’m ready to lead the City color – who understood there of Boston.” needed to be change. However, Barros appeared with his fam- he also added that his campaign ily that included four children will not be antagonistic to police. – John Jr., Jeremiah, Casey and “It’s been clear in my conver- Olivia – and his wife, Tchiintcia. sations that the police under- He was flanked by many sup- stand there needs to be transfor- porters from the community and mation,” he said. “In fact, we Former City Economic Development Chief John Barros announced on March 4 that he is running for mayor his family members, including his can and will work with police to of Boston – the only current candidate that has previously run for the seat. He made the announcement with mother who is known as ‘Thaca.’ continue to move. I’m excited to his wife, Tchiintcia, and his four children. “As a father of four young have worked with Mayor Walsh he attended both public and programs to help businesses grow Policy from Tufts University and children, the future of Boston on the new changes instituted in Catholic schools. At age 14, he while fostering economic inclu- a B.A. in African/African-Ameri- means everything to me,” Bar- government now…I’m excited became a community organizer sion and equity. Prior to that, can Studies from Dartmouth Col- ros said. “I’ve lived my entire about the recommendations that with the Dudley Street Neigh- John had served on the Boston lege. He lives with his wife and life deeply rooted in our com- recently came out of the Task borhood Initiative (DSNI), the School Committee for three years. their four children in Dorchester. munity as an activist, as a small Force and look forward to imple- Roxbury and Dorchester-based John earned a Master of Public business owner, and as a gov- menting them as mayor. I am in community land trust. In 1991, ernment official. As Boston’s fact ready to talk to police about he was the first youth elected to Chief of Economic Develop- how we shift duties and roles that the DSNI Board of Directors. ment, I changed the way that will move the budget around…I John later served as executive City Hall plans for growth and look forward to that conversa- director of DSNI/DNI, the larg- SmileS development. We’ve made a tion with police and not because est urban community land trust lot of progress, and now is the I’m going to create a campaign to in the country. He held that post Start time to take our work further.” fight police. It’s because I’m going for 13 years, during which time Focusing on his experience to work with the police officers the organization made tremen- with development at DSNI and and leadership that get it and is dous strides toward neighbor- here. his role as Economic Develop- ready to have hard conversations hood revitalization and commu- ment Chief of Boston, Barros about the transformations we’re nity wealth creation. Working The South End Community Health seemed to begin to differentiate ready to do.” with community partners, DSNI Center provides high-quality health himself as the candidate who As yet another person of color developed new community cen- care to newborns, children, and teens would best know how to bring in the race, and the only Black ters and created open spaces through age 17. From annual the City back to life econom- man so far in the race, Barros and parks. It opened schools, check-ups and preventive care to treating children with more complex ically, equitably and socially. said he believed the City was commercial property, and built “The next four years will be ready for that kind of change – conditions, we’ve been caring for kids permanently affordable housing. in the South End for 50 years. We’d like critical,” he said. “I have a plan that being electing the first per- In 2014, he was appointed as to bring our city back to life in son of color to be mayor. to care for yours, too! We offer both Boston’s first Chief of Economic telehealth and in-person visits. a safe way – in a more equita- “Boston is ready for diversity Development, where he oversaw ble way. We will confront racial and Boston is ready for a candi- date of color,” he said. “Boston is ready for a Black man like me to be mayor. You can feel it talking to people. People have called me A Division of the East Boston Neighborhood Health Center and asked me questions about how to unite the city, how we meet the newest member of our raise our diversity…When I went around the City (the last seven pediatric team: Dr. riemer!

years), people didn’t say to me “I’m thrilled to join the Pediatric Department at the that I wasn’t welcome here. Peo- South End Community Health Center. As a pediatric ple embraced me and they didn’t doctor of osteopathic medicine, I practice a whole- child approach to care, supporting wellness in embrace me in an anonymous both mind and body. My goal is for your child to be way. They embraced my diver- truly healthy, inside and out, in addition to being sity. We talked about race, my symptom-free. I recently became a mom myself, so I can appreciate how it feels to want the best care background, about me being an for your child in challenging times. It would be my immigrant, and they wanted to privilege to provide your child with the attention talk about that. We have been Marianne Hughes, former exec- and care that your family deserves.” talking race in Boston awhile.” utive director of the Interaction Dr. Jeretta LeighAnn Riemer, Pediatrician Community advocate Conan A lifelong resident of Boston, Institute for Social Change and Harris spoke in support of Barros accepting new patients. a Boston resident, announced during the kick-off. Barros’ parents emigrated from Call 617-425-2090 to make an appointment Cabo Verde to Boston, where Barros at the kick-off. PAGE 6 THE BOSTON SUN March 11, 2021 Cocoanut Grove Memorial recommended for $250,000 CPA grant

By Lauren Bennett Village’s first project to be recom- that “our objective is to create recommends a grant award ruary 11 vote. mended for CPA funding. The a memorial that preserves and of $250,000 to the City of CPA funds for FY21 total On February 11, the Com- project has been recommended honors the memory of the vic- Boston Parks and Recreation $25,517,608, according to the munity Preservation Committee for $250,000 in CPA funds this tims, survivors, first responders Department. The grant award City, and projects are divided (CPC) voted to support the rec- round, and the proposed memo- and medical professionals.” would partially fund the capi- into three categories: affordable ommendations of Mayor Marty rial will remember 490 people The website also states that tal improvements and memorial housing, historic preservation, Walsh regarding 67 projects to who passed away in the fire at the memorial was “unanimous- construction to rehabilitate land and open space and recreation. receive funding from the Com- the Cocoanut Grove nightclub in ly approved by the Boston Arts for active and passive recreation- The City Council will vote on munity Preservation Act (CPA). 1942. Commission at their monthly al use, including a new memorial the final slate of projects, and The Cocoanut Grove Memo- According to the Cocoanut meeting” in January. to commemorate the Cocoanut if approved, the recommended rial project, which has been pro- Grove Memorial Committee’s “After consideration of the Grove nightclub fire of 1942,” funds will then be allocated to posed for Statler Park, is Bay website, committee members say amended application, the CPC reads a slide presented at the Feb- the respective projects. Walsh recommends investing $3 million in YW Boston redevelopment project

By Dan Murphy nering with Pine Street Inn to ment plan. Construction on the of Neighborhood Develop- covert 50,000 square feet of project is expected to commence ment, the Neighborhood Hous- Mayor Martin J. Walsh has space now comprising the exist- this August, and to take around ing Trust and the Community recommended investing $3 mil- ing 66-room Hotel 140, as well 20 months to complete, accord- Preservation Fund to create and lion in city funds to acquire the as 118 apartments, into 210 ing to members of the develop- preserve 841 income-restricted 13-story building owned by YW affordable-rate rental units, with ment team. units of housing in Allston, Back Boston (formerly YWCA Bos- priority for 111 of them given “Beacon Communities is Bay, Dorchester, Fenway, Hyde ton) at the corner of Clarendon to homeless individuals. The proud to be working with the Park, Jamaica Plain, Mattapan, and Stuart streets in Back Bay, site’s three largest existing com- City to address the affordable Roxbury and the South End. In and to redevelop it into afford- mercial-tenants, the Lyric Stage housing crisis and the need to all, 198 of the units funded will able housing, with around half Company of Boston, a nonprof- end homelessness throughout create permanent housing oppor- of its 210 planned units going to it performing arts center; the Boston,” said Dara Kovel, Chief tunities for homeless individuals, people experiencing homeless- Snowden International School; Executive Officer at Beacon according to the city. The Back Bay building owned by ness. and YW Boston itself, would Communities, in a press release. “I am proud the City of Bos- YW Boston, which is proposed remain as part of the redevelop- Beacon Communities is part- “Our partnership with Pine ton is investing in preserving and for redevelopment into affordable Street Inn at 140 Clarendon is a creating affordable homes to housing. Don’t miss our annual big step in this direction and will increase the availability of hous- Housing Trust and the Commu- ensure housing options and non- ing for our residents,” Mayor nity Preservation Committee, for Guide profit commercial space in the Walsh said in a press release. making this funding available Summer in the City Back Bay for decades to come.” “Everyone deserves a place to and supporting these important featuring Safe Summer Camps & Great Safe Activities! On March 1, Mayor Martin J. call home, and this funding will housing opportunities. Working Walsh announced more than $34 go a long way towards making together with our partners, I am million in new and recommend- that reality for so many people. I proud that we are building a bet- ed funding from the Department want to thank the Neighborhood ter Boston.”

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A SLOW YET CERTAIN News Briefs RETURN TO NORMLACY HOUSE WAYS & Santiago for Mayor of Boston. natown, South End, Downtown, MEANS CHAIR Our city stands on the precipice Leather District, Bay Village, of a new era of leadership and I and portions of the West End, MICHLEWITZ ENDORS- know Jon’s experience as a doc- Beacon Hill and the Back Bay. In ES SANTIAGO FOR tor, a veteran, a Peace Corps vol- 2019, he was named Chair of the MAYOR unteer, and as a state representa- House Ways and Means Com- On Thursday, March 4, just tive make him the most qualified mittee and continues to hold over a week after South End to lead us into that new era,” that post. Born and raised in the State Rep. Jon Santiago launched said Representative Michlewitz. North End, Rep. Michlewitz and his campaign, State Rep. Aaron “He will help us recover as a city Santiago have delivered for Bos- Michlewitz, who represents and region.” ton neighborhoods on a variety the North End and parts of the Michlewitz represents the of legislative initiatives includ- South End, has endorsed Santia- Third Suffolk District, which ing COVID-19 relief, landmark go for Mayor of Boston. comprises the neighborhoods of “I am proud to endorse Jon the North End, Waterfront, Chi- (News Briefs, Pg. 9)

Essaibi George (from pg. 1) Two things one hasn’t seen that often lately – a man carrying a dog, and versations with small businesses small business owner about how sons. Essaibi George is also a for- a yellow school bus. It might be hard to get to the bottom of carrying and employees in every single locally owned shops create com- mer Fields Corner Main Streets a pooch, but the school buses have returned to the neighborhoods over neighborhood of Boston.” munity & make our neighbor- Director. the past week, including here on Pembroke and Tremont Streets in the Essaibi George visited the hoods special. #GetBOSBackto- The councilor has added more South End. Boston Public School students in grades K-3 returned to South End on March 3, where Biz,” Essaibi George tweeted on locations to her tour, including hybrid in-person learning on March 1, and students in grades 4-8 will she made stops at M. Flynn Jew- March 3. Downtown, Back Bay, and Fen- return to hybrid in-person classes as well starting on March 15. High elry, SAULT New England, and Aside from her duties as City way on March 18. So far, aside School students are expected to return starting March 29. Of course, Walden Local. Councilor and running her may- from the South End, she has vis- families are still allowed to opt-out and stay remote if they wish. Boston “And onto the South End, oral campaign, Essaibi George is ited local businesses in Dorches- Public Schools reports that about 57 percent of students are enrolled where I chatted with the owner also a small business owner. Her ter, Roslindale, West Roxbury, in hybrid, and 43 percent have remained all-remote. However, in the South End, some 52 percent of the students have chosen to stay remote. of the women-owned boutique yarn shop, Stitch House, is locat- Chinatown, Jamaica Plain, All- In the Fenway, 53 percent of the student have remained remote. Both @mflynnjewelry. It was great ed in Dorchester, where she also ston, and Brighton. neighborhoods have some of the highest percentage levels of opt-outs in to connect with a fellow female lives with her husband and four the city.

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Boston Hope Music (from pg. 1) touched by it has been so criti- ble, “Receiving a vaccination cal to their daily survival,” said can be a stressful experience, so Lisa Wong, a pediatrician and we’re happy to do what we can co-founder of BHM. “We began to support Fenway and other to think about the vaccine cen- mass vaccination sites.” ters. We were thinking that if BHM was founded as a well- we were going to be vaccinated, ness program at the field hospital it meant going there with a mix Boston Hope Medical Center by of hope, frustration, anger and Dr. Ronald Hirschberg and Dr. anxiety…What can help you get Wong and is organized under the your mind out of that place and auspices of fiscal sponsor Eureka to heal is music. So, 3.0 was on Ensemble. The BHM team also its way and going to mass vacci- includes Winsor Music, the New nation centers and healing with England Conservatory, and Mas- music.” sachusetts General Said Andres Ballesteros, exec- Hospital. Wong explained Members of Boston Hope Music performing at Fenway Park for those waiting for and recieving their vaccines. utive director of Eureka Ensem- that for BHM 3.0, the group has worked with Fenway Park to ter and then the doctors. I, as a “For the musician side, much maintain strict health protocols doctor, didn’t know how power- of the excitement has been just for volunteer musicians, including ful music could be as a treatment being able to play for someone,” OWN YOUR WESTON DREAM HOME AT mask wearing and social distanc- until I received this treatment he said. “Last week at Fenway PRE-CONSTRUCTION PRICING ing. Local musicians will perform myself…Now we’re bringing was the first time I’ve played for 5-BEDROOM HOME ON CUSTOM-BUILT HOME at Fenway Park on weekdays that treatment to the communi- a real live human being I don’t 60,000 SQ. FT. OF LAND MODERN DESIGN from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. until the ty. From the virtual recordings to live with…It’s been a joy feed- RENOVATE OR BUILD YOUR DREAM APPROXIMATELY 7500 SQ. FT. site’s closure on March 27. They the Zoom lessons to now playing ing off everyone’s energy – other HOME, SOUTH SIDE LOCATION (INCLUDING BASEMENT) do hope to continue the effort live. It’s been an evolution of the musicians, and students and when the site moves to the Hynes same idea and going more and patients. It’s not only playing Convention Center as well. more into the community.” with an audience, but also play- Dr. Kathy Tran was a recipient Ballesteros said while the ing with other musicians because of BHM 2.0, which paired NEC musical therapy has been key we’ve missed that too.” students with front-line health for patients and providers, being Now the question on their care workers last year. The pro- able to play music has been a just minds as they continue to play 589 WELLESLEY STREET 589 WELLESLEY STREET gram taught them, or re-taught as important. Many musicians for the vaccine sites is what they $1,195,000 $3,450,000 them, music lessons on a variety haven’t been able to play live will do when that operation is of instruments. For Tran, she had for a year, and many more have completed. 5 RADCLIFFE ROAD played violin many years ago, only had limited times to play “This is a healing program CUSTOM BUILD, LUXURY, MODERN FARM HOUSE but had put it away in the clos- with another person and feel the for me because of the creativity et for the last 15 years. With an connection that the language of coming from everyone – every- opportunity to pick it back up as music builds between performers. one brings something to the table part of the program, she discov- With that, he said the musi- and we figure it out,” said Wong. ered the therapy it provided after cian community has been clam- “As the pandemic ends, do we spending many stressful hours in oring to sign up for slots to play end? We know there is going to a hospital. at Fenway, and virtually every be a lot of healing necessary. It “Music as therapy, that’s the slot is filled at the moment. How- has been food for the soul for the common thread through all of ever, they do expect to add more past year.” this,” she said. “We’ve been slots for opportunities to play Musicians interested in vol-

APPROXIMATELY 7500 SQ. FT. INCLUDING BASEMENT consistently echoing this idea of when they expand to the Assem- unteering to perform can l earn $3,795,000 treating people with music – first bly Row and Reggie Lewis vacci- more at w ww.bostonhopemusic. CONTACT: [email protected] | 617.839.3919 patients at the Convention Cen- nation sites. org.

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Mayor Martin J. Walsh #BOSCanHelp BOS:311 March 11, 2021 THE BOSTON SUN PAGE 9 Reimagine Boston Main Streets program looks at ways to support local business districts She said the hope is to ensure ical” feedback from business “People who came in were just thinking about in terms of sup- Ensure equitable that there is long-term recov- owners is how the City can better very open and interested in being porting small businesses and economic recovery ery in the neighborhoods, and communicate with them about there and gave some honest feed- helping them thrive, while driv- to make sure that it’s equitable. resources that are available to back,” Walker said. “Communi- ing residents and visitors alike to By Lauren Bennett “We want to help close the racial ensure that they are receiving cation is really important if you the districts. In the midst of a pandemic, wealth gap,” the City said on its proper support. want to hear that consistency Right now, the Reimagine looking out for the future of Bos- website for the project. The final listening session is there.” Boston Main Streets program is ton’s Main Streets districts has “We are the oldest and largest scheduled for March 11, after Urtubey said that the struc- “still in the community engage- become all the more urgent. urban Main Streets program in which the City and project con- ture of the listening sessions is ment process,” Urtubey said, and The City launched its Reimag- the country,” Urtubey said, and sultants will create a report of “focused on making sure peo- the next step includes the analy- ine Main Streets program in “we want to really be able to what was learned from the ses- ple understand the role of Main sis of the community engage- November of last year, which, measure our success.” sions, including trends heard Streets,” and are given an over- ment, “which will lead to more according to the City’s website, The process uses an online across districts. Right now, no view of the project. The project of a community survey.” is a “community engagement survey as well as a series of 10 specific information is available consultants offer questions and She said that “my hope is that process designed to strengthen listening sessions to look at exist- to be shared, Urtubey said. prompts geared towards gaining we’ll continue to engage Main the future of Boston Main Streets ing programs within the Main Walker explained that some of valuable information that will be Street directors and other stake- program through a deep and Streets districts to see what is the general feedback includes the used to create recommendations holders in the process moving comprehensive analysis of the working and where gaps may lie. desire for IT and language sup- for the districts, and then folks forward,” and by this coming program’s existing systems and “Setting goals and metrics across port, as well as financial resourc- are provided with next steps and fall, a set of recommendations resources, uses, and gaps that the Main Streets I think will be es, among other things. how they can continue partici- is expected to be ready to be impact local economic growth.” a really critical piece,” Urtubey “COVID has exacerbated pating in the process. released by the City. The process is led by consultants said. the need for financial relief and She said these sessions are For more information and to Strategy Matters and CJ Strat- “Even prior to COVID, equity access to capital; we’ve seen that “about building on previous participate, people can join the egies, as well as subcontractors has been at the forefront of what across the board with large busi- engagement and building new email list by emailing reimagine- Archipelago Strategy Group. we do,” she said, adding that the nesses and small businesses, and engagement as well.” [email protected], The Sun spoke with Natalia hope is always to create jobs, but that will absolutely continue to She continued, “There’s a level as well as visiting the Reimagine Urtubey, the City’s Director of also “really creating place in our be a huge need moving forward,” of visibility we want to bring to Boston Main Street Facebook Small Business, as well as Ellen commercial districts,” and “giv- Urtubey said. Main Streets districts,” and “we page, taking the online survey Walker, the Executive Director ing people a reason” to spend “COVID has opened the want local tourism to be a part of at boston.gov/departments/ of Mission Hill Main Streets, to their money at local businesses. doors,” Walker said, and this in a way, [and] getting peo- small-business-development/ learn more about this process “For us, it’s really import- “enabled” business owners to ple from inside and outside of reimagine-boston-main-streets, and how it can help shape the ant for us to know the gaps in connect with their Main Streets Boston to explore the district” is and/or by attending the remain- way the City’s main streets dis- services that maybe we haven’t organizations and the City, even also a key element. ing listening session, which has tricts will move forward. looked into or know about yet, if they never have before. She said that this “allows us to a focus on Ashmont and Wash- Urtubey said this process was and I think that’s one of the key Walker said that she feels the think about what are some cre- ington Gateway, scheduled for thought up long before COVID reasons why I think that’s so listening sessions are “very com- ative solutions to support busi- March 11 at 5:30 p.m. hit Boston, but “the direction has important for local stakehold- fortable; very welcoming,” and nesses?” “I think it’s being positive- become more intentional with ers tot take part in that conver- include breakout sessions for Urtubey said that initiatives ly received,” Walker said of the COVID,” and she said the focus sation, residents, anyone who business owners as well as other like the City’s outdoor din- program. “It’s always good to has now switched to “economic engages with that commercial stakeholders and residents to dis- ing program and other ways look what you’ve done, where recovery rather than simply just district should be participating,” cuss any struggles they are facing to “leverage public space” and you are, and where you want to how to enhance and engage in a she said. and then come back to the whole “improve the quality of life for be. It’s an important time to be regular world.” Urtubey also said that “crit- group to present. residents” are things the City is doing this.”

News Briefs Continued from Page 7 education reform, transportation firsthand how much he cares Boston to bring our city back VANDALS TAGGING IN SOUTH END investments, and the expansion about our city and expanding stronger than ever.” of affordable housing. opportunity for all,” Santiago Word around political circles “Having worked with Chair- said. “I am humbled to receive in Boston is that Santiago has man Michlewitz on Beacon Hill his endorsement and look for- moved quick within the legisla- to deliver urgently needed results ward to working with him and ture to shore up a lot of support for our city and state, I’ve seen community leaders throughout within the Boston delegation, and other endorsements from Bostonians in the State House are likely to come in the near future as well.

IMAGINE VAN GOGH COMING DEC. 21 TO SOWA POWER STATION “Imagine Van Gogh,” more than 200 of the Dutch artist’s paintings, is making its debut in Boston on Dec. 21 at the SoWa The Eight Streets Neighborhood Association reported a rash of tagging Power Station. incidents over the past week in their neighborhood and other parts of The exhibition is a contact- the South End. That goes in line with experiences in other areas of the less experience spanning over city as well, including Beacon Hill. 24,000 square feet, with a limit- “Tagging is real blight on our neighborhood and the Boston Police Department strongly encourage everyone to call 911 as soon as you see (News Briefs Pg. 10) it,” said ESNA President Michael Almond. PAGE 10 THE BOSTON SUN March 11, 2021

Attention to Detail News Briefs Continued from Page 9 By Penny Cherubino ed number of guests allowed in revenues and inspire consumer “To be part of an organization THIS WEEK'S ANSWER on a timed-entry basis, and it will confidence. Bowman is a long- that lives its brand promise of adhere to all safety guidelines time resident of the Back Bay Sharing Success in giving back to established by the Common- who lives on Clarendon Street. our community is truly a market- wealth. As Chief Marketing Officer, er’s dream role.” Tickets start at $33.99 (plus Bowman will oversee the Mar- Prior to joining South Shore service charges and fees) and are keting, Advertising and Com- Bank, Bowman spent more than on sale now. For more informa- munications teams and lead the 12 years at The Boston Globe, tion, visit www.imagine-van- rebranding of South Shore Bank. most recently as Vice President of gogh.com. The new brand, Sharing Success, Marketing and Strategic Partner- is inspired by the bank’s perfor- ships for Boston Globe Media. BACK BAY WOMAN mance providing critical Pay- Prior to that, Bowman was Vice check Protection Program (PPP) President of Marketing and ANNOUNCED AS NEW loans and giving back PPP pro- Research for Comcast Spotlight’s CHIEF MARKETING ceeds to create the South Shore Northeast Division, focused on OFFICER AT SOUTH Bank Community Fund, which planning and development to SHORE BANK helped people struggling with support the advertising sales South Shore Bank is proud to rent and mortgage payments due business. Bowman resides in announce the hiring of the Back to the pandemic. Bowman will Boston’s Back Bay neighborhood Bay’s Jane Bowman as its Chief sit on the bank’s marketing com- and is active in the community. Marketing Officer. Bowmanmittee and will report directly Bowman earned a Bachelor of brings extensive marketing expe- to Chief Operating Officer, Pam Science in Business Administra- rience and an impactful record O’Leary. tion from Drexel University and of leading dynamic marketing “I’m thrilled to join South a Masters’ Degree in Manage- and advertising campaigns that Shore Bank at such a pivotal time ment from Lesley University. strengthen brands, generate new in its growth,” said Bowman.

Real Estate Transfers BUYER 1 SELLER 1 ADDRESS PRICE

BACK BAY Nina Marill IRT Rucci Catherine J Est 160 Commonwealth Ave #211 $700,000 BEACON HILL Dougherty, Kay E Wood, Elwood S 145 Pinckney St #610 $750,000

BAY VILLAGE/SOUTH END/KENMORE Rosskamp, Ralf Martha M Sadler RET 130 Appleton St #3G $1,225,000 Evan M Kushner LT CJA Boylston LLC 300 Boylston St #511 $980,000 The window in the last clue is on the Kenmore Street side of the Hotel Zandparsa, Roya Jeffrey A Weinstein 1 Charles St S #4A $1,080,000 Commonwealth. This building was designed by architects Ahearn, SC RT Chan, Serene 9 Follen St #2 $865,000 Schopfer and Associates, Inc. and was completed in 2004. That same year, neighbors and city officials required major reconstruction of the Hampton Realty LLC Distefano, Erica T 4 Charlesgate E #303 $825,000 facade to replace, with cast stone, the fiberglass faux materials original- Wang, Hsiumei Loguidice, Matthew 549 Columbus Ave #3 $505,000 ly used. Westcott, Anne Levin-Scherz, Joshua 38 Dwight St #6 $750,000 The next clue will be found in the South End. Angel, Gloria Chee, Brant W 90 Gainsborough St #4E $470,000 Do you have a favorite building or detail you would like featured? Send Jin, Zhouyong 50 Symphony LLC 50 Symphony Rd #301 $1,149,000 an email to [email protected] with your suggestion. Bingling Luo T 50 Symphony LLC 50 Symphony Rd #501 $1,249,000 THIS WEEK'S CLUE Pryshlak, Adrian P Mainsail W Brkline 3 LLC 170 W Brookline St $6,350,000 Adam S Goldstein West Brook House LLC 189 W Brookline St #1 $2,450,000 Nemetz, James Veysey, Phillip R 1313 Washington St #706 $1,667,250 Leitner, Marian K 21 Worcester St Assoc 21 Worcester St #1 $1,725,000 WATERFRONT/DOWNTOWN Prabhu, Saileta 1 Avery 32C LLC 1 Avery St #32C $1,592,500 Nirmalan, Aarathi Williams, Norman A 42-44 Beach St #4A $276,181 Forino, Sara Lawlor, Robert 120 Commercial St #1-1 $645,000 Hodge, Allison M Reardon, Keri 120 Commercial St #1-2 $849,500 Linda G Johansson RET Ryan, Mary R 357 Commercial St #121 $570,000 Shaw, David G David G Shaw RET 85 E India Row #19G $1,027,000 Uhler, Caroline Chim, Shuk F 1 Franklin St #2111 $1,300,000 1223 Mt T Ashe, Jonathan 1 Franklin St #4703 $4,300,000 Griffin, Alfred C Jenkins, Jason H 108 Fulton St #1 $690,000 Danielle C York RET Agin, Warren 112 Fulton St #1A $1,180,000 Danielle C York RET Agin, Warren 112 Fulton St #1B $1,180,000 Pace, Linda Batl Management MA LLC 88 Kingston St #7F $1,799,000 March 11, 2021 THE BOSTON SUN PAGE 11 MBTA presents proposed upgrades to Symphony Station

By Lauren Bennett doors and gates were installed team is “committed to engagement project site. signage on both platforms. at the Fenway portal on the D throughout the final design phase.” A resident asked why the He also said that snow will As part of the Green Line branch. Jorge Briones, GLT Senior Proj- proposed new entrances includ- not be a “barrier to accessibility” Transformation (GLT) initia- Pena said that Level 1 includes ect Manager for Symphony Sta- ed tall headhouses versus “flat due to the new design and coor- tive, Symphony Station is get- “accessibility improvements to sta- tion, explained the details regard- roofs” like Copley Station has. dination with the City. ting a makeover. At a virtual tions over the next several years,” ing the station design for this proj- Briones said that based on Thibodeaux said that the public meeting on March 3, the including new or upgraded plat- ect. feedback from those most “MBTA will ensure that snow MBTA presented the plans for forms, compliant height width, Right now, the station has impacted by the headhouses, this will be cleared,” and there is no the upgrades and addressed com- and slope, among other things. four stairway entrances at street was the design that was settled chance of snow or ice blowing ments and questions from resi- “We will achieve a goal of acces- level going westbound, and two on by all. down the open stairs like there dents. sibility at one of the busiest Green stairway entrances for north- Marie Fukuda of the Fen- is now, because the new design Angel Pena, Chief of the GLT, Line stations,” Pena said of this bound trains. way Civic Association said she features automatic doors and a said that to date, there are 75 per- project. Passengers can only access the was “surprised at the look of vestibule. cent definite plans “for upgrad- Tameika Thibodeaux, Senior platform via stairs, which “rein- the headhouses at Horticultural Another question was raised ing and modernizing Symphony Director of the GLT, said that the forces how non-compliant the Hall,” as they “seem bulky.” She about the possibility of being Station to make it fully accessi- 100 percent design is expected to station is,” Briones said. He also said she would like to see them able to cross in between inbound ble.” He added that “neighbors be ready between Feburary and said that there are “non-function- “align better with the historic and outbound platforms like and community members around summer of this year, and the esti- ing restrooms” at the outbound nature of the two buildings.” Arlington Station allows. Symphony Station are eager to mated construction start is fall or platform, and no restrooms at all Briones said that the MBTA Thibodeaux said that “unfor- see this project come to fruition.” winter of this year, with a reopen- at the inbound platform, as well held meetings with the Bos- tunately, the design that is in Pena spoke about the four ing date of summer 2023. as “inadequate emergency light- ton Symphony Orchestra, and place is not going to have that goals, or Levels of Transforma- Symphony Station will be closed ing.” Northeastern University, which inbound/outbound mezzanine tion, of the GLT, beginning with to passengers for 13 months, but As part of the upgrades, the now owns Horticultural Hall, that you have at Arlington Sta- Level 0, which began in 2019 trains will continue to run through station will now include accessi- as well as the Christian Science tion.” She said the design that and into 2020. Approximately the station. There will also be ble restrooms, and three-stop ele- Monitor, all of which agreed has been presented has been 57,000 feet of track was replaced weekend shutdowns, and “plans vators that will “bring it into full upon this design after examining approved, and MBTA customer systemwide, and 45 intersections for alternate service to Sympho- compliance with code and acces- several options. service agents will be on hand at and crossings were upgraded ny Station during the closure are sibility requirements,” Briones Briones also said that upgrades the station to help direct anyone on the B, C, and E branches of under development,” Thibodeaux said. There will be a total of four for accommodating those with to the correct platform. the Green Line. Additionally, said. new elevators, and raised plat- audible impairments will be For more information on this “10 units of special track work She said that so far, the “proj- forms inside the sta- tion, as well part of the project, including an project, visit mbta.com/projects/ on the D and C branches” were ect has been well-received in the as new lighting and “improved upgraded communications sys- symphony-station-accessibili- replaced, and flood protection community,” and that the GLT wayfinding,” accord- ing to the tem, as well as new speakers and ty-improvements.

CORONAVIRUS for use of the property for parking. SeeFor at 794 Massachusetts Record Ave., South End. 150 exempt parking spaces located at •Boston Chinese Evangel- UPDATE: Due to public health the enclosed materials for additional 350 Boylston St. This permit is for the ical Church, 120 Shawmut concerns, the hearings that nor- information. From the March 11 South End Land- construction of an underground park- Ave. (Monday, Weds., and Fri- mally would be held on a week have •171 Newbury St., Back Bay. marks Subcommittee, noon, online via ing garage with spaces to be shared day only – South End). been postponed or canceled due to Applicant: Jason Zube. Purpose: Zoom (HTTPS://US02WEB.ZOOM. with lessees, employees, patrons, cus- •Boston Latin School – 78 Avenue the guidance of Mayor Martin Walsh Changing from a retail store to tattoo US/J/82346308399): tomers, clients, and guests of the proj- Louis Pasteur (Fenway). and the order of Gov. Charlie Baker. parlor. 54-102 West Newton St. Previ- ect. Issuance of the permit would have Some meetings, however, have been CALL OF THE CHAIR ously reviewed at the 8/04/2020 and no effect on the Downtown parking REPORTING WORKPLACE moved to an online or teleconference •1001 Boylston St., Fenway. Appli- 3/02/2021 SELDC Public Hearings. freeze bank. * Continued from the SAFETY CONCERNS format under the emergency order on cants: Paul Lewis, Arthur Ulian, KRT Proposed work: Replace handrails at December 16, 2020 hearing. •Workers in any size organiza- the Open Meeting Law issued by Gov. Holdings, LLC, Kensington Newbury entry steps and stoops (modify previ- tion have options if they feel they are Baker. St., LLC, and Sean T. Doherty. Pur- ous Certificate of Design Approval). SCHOOLS INFO being pressured into an unsafe situa- pose: The petitioner’s seeks a determi- •School Return Timetables – tion. Attorney General Maura Healey From the March 9 Zoning Board nation that the Inspectional Services From the March 11, 4 p.m., March 1-4 – Students in K0-Grade 3 has created resources for workers to meeting, 9:30 a.m., online: Department erred in issuing the per- COUNCIL COMMITTEE ON EDU- (Groups A and B); March 15-18 – Stu- report safety concerns during reopen- •43 Union Park, South End. Appli- mit# ERT1037077. The permit was CATION HEARING: Order for a dents in Grades 4-8 (Groups A & B); ing. They include an online form at cant: Timothy Sheehan. Purpose: Gut issued as an allowed use. hearing regarding ensuring all Boston and March 29-April 1 – Students in the Attorney General’s website and a renovation of an existing duplex con- Public Schools have a full-time mental grades 9-12 (Groups A & B). dedicated Fair Labor hotline at 617- dominium. A new private roof deck From the March 10 Public Facil- health and social emotional support •P-EBT Cards - All BPS students 727-3465. People can also find those accessed via a stair and hatch, a new ities Commission meeting, 10 a.m., specialist. will have more P-EBT funds for this resources by calling 311. kitchen, new bedrooms and bath- online: This matter was referred to the school year. If you received P-EBT rooms. Two front existing dormers •To Accept and Expend a Grant Committee on January 13, 2021. funds in the past, look for funds to be HOW TO REPORT A will be attached, existing rear dormer from The Boston Health Care for the allocated the last week of December. PROBLEM PROPERTY will be enlarged. Homeless Program, Inc.: To be utilized From the March 12, 10 a.m., CITY New to P-EBT? You will get a P-EBT Since taking office in 2014, Mayor •43 Union Park, South End. Appli- in connection with improvements to COUNCIL COMMITTEE ON WAYS card in January or check your existing Walsh has made fixing quality of life cant: Timothy Sheehan Purpose: Gut the Woods Mullen Shelter Addition AND MEANS HEARING: A hearing EBT card for funds. Learn more at issues a priority in his administration. renovation of an existing duplex con- Renovations and Elevator Project regarding Boston Police Overtime. www.MAp-EBT.org or call the Assis- From investing in Public Works to dominium. A new private roof deck located at 794 Massachusetts Ave., This matter was sponsored by tance Line at 877-382-2363. making sure community policing is a accessed via a stair and hatch, a new South End. Grant Amount: $550,000. Councilors Kenzie Bok, Andrea staple in every neighborhood, we are kitchen, new bedrooms and bath- WHEREAS, The Boston Health Care Campbell, and Matt O’Malley, and FREE BPS BREAKFAST IN making sure every neighborhood is rooms. Two front existing dormers for the Homeless Program, Inc. has was referred to the Committee on Jan- SOUTH END/FENWAY clean, safe and a great place to live will be attached, existing rear dormer awarded a grant to the City of Bos- uary 27, 2021. Students who wish to get a free and work in. Unfortunately some will be enlarged. ton’s Public Facilities Department, breakfast Monday through Friday, properties in Boston need more help •1301-1305 Boylston St., Fenway. acting by and through the Public Facil- From the March 17 Air Pollution 8:30 to 11:30 am., have three sites than others, and that's why we Applicant: Brian Judge. Purpose: The ities Commission, in an amount not to Control Commission, 11:30 a.m., to choose from in the South End and are here. If you know of a property Applicant is requesting a Zoning Code exceed Five Hundred Fifty Thousand online: Fenway. This is the BPS initiative, but that fits one of the following criteria: refusal letter from ISD in order to file Dollars ($550,000) to be utilized in Application for a New Downtown other organizations are also serving multiple calls to 911, one that's an application with the Board of connection with improvements to the Boston Parking Freeze Permit from meals in the area as well. blighted or just a general concern, Appeal to extend the existing Woods Mullen Shelter Addition Ren- The Druker Company Ltd on behalf •Blackstone Elementary School – we encourage you to reach out and long standing zoning relief ovations and Elevator Project located of Arlington-Boylston Realty Trust for 380 Shawmut Ave. (South End). to your neighborhood liaison. PAGE 12 THE BOSTON SUN March 11, 2021

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