THURSDAY, August 12, 2021

Published every Thursday Serving Back Bay - South End - Fenway - Kenmore Alexandra BVHDC approves Residences conversion of former church on bring renewed Isabella St. to condos hope for By Lauren Bennett The Bay Village Historic Dis- development trict Commission (BVHDC) on Tuesday approved the conver- of former hotel sion of the former Our Lady of Victories church into condomini- By Seth Daniel ums with an addition, a project The owners of the blighted, that has been discussed for a long but historic, Hotel Alexandra time in the neighborhood. property at the corner of Wash- This project has already come ington Street and Mass Avenue before the Commission for two have filed a Project Notification advisory reviews, but was offi- Form (PNF) to switch their pro- cially approved on August 10. posal from a hotel use to a 106- Architect Rebecca Berry pro- unit condo building – renewing vided an update to Commission- hope that despite the crash in the ers about where the project team Members of the Ward 5 Democratic Committee gathered at the ‘Make Way for Ducklings’ statue in the Public Boston hotel market, the proper- Gardens last Thursday, Aug. 5, to officially announce their endorsement of Councilor Michelle Wu for mayor. is in the process, and presented ty might still see a revival. the latest iteration of the propos- Attorney Marc LaCasse, who al. represents Alexandra Partners, Ward 5 Democrats endorse Wu for Mayor The last time this project came filed the PNF a few weeks back before the Commission was in Staff Report on Charles Street. Boston Mayor, the second Ward and said that despite the project Sharon Durkan, of the Ward Committee to endorse Wu in the February, and Berry said that being ready for hotel construc- Last week, the Ward 5 Demo- 5 Dems, said they voted on July Mayor’s race. The Boston Ward since then, the Article 80 review tion just prior to COVID-19, the crats (Back Bay, Beacon Hill, Fen- 20 on the endorsement, and had 4 Democratic Committee had with the city is continuing, as plan was upended by the pan- way, and Bay Village) gathered in 16 vote for Wu, two vote present thrown their support to Wu in is community outreach. Addi- demic and forced to reconfigure. the Public Gardens to officially and one person voted for another May. No other Ward Committees tionally, both the Boston Plan- Now, the plan will be to shift endorse Councilor Michelle Wu candidate. have endorsed any candidates in ning and Development Agency from a 150-room hotel to 106 for mayor of Boston, and then The vote was overwhelming- (BPDA) Board and the Zoning (Hotel Alexandra, Pg. 2) participate in a stand-out for her ly to endorse Michelle Wu for (Ward 5 Democrats, Pg. 5) (BVHDC. Pg. 3) Inbox Appeal: Mayoral candidates use e-mail inundation this time for fundraising, exposure

By Seth Daniel coming – and that is by the inun- cial help with personal stories, One e-mail address from this didates’ digital fundraising oper- dation of fundraising e-mails that outrages of the day or simply newspaper that has the attention ations at the end of last month There’s one way this sum- storm inboxes from all five major pushing the narrative that time of all five major mayoral can- – each using the addressee’s first mer to know that the end of the mayoral candidates appealing is run- ning out to meet didates got approximately 35 name and seemingly knowing month is for finan- important goals. e-mails in two days from the can- (Fundraising, Pg. 1) PAGE 2 THE BOSTON SUN August 12, 2021 editorial

A BLEAK FUTURE FOR THE EARTH Esplanade 5K returns August 29 The report released this week by the United Nations detailing the By Dan Murphy is again presented by Blue Cross the park, including a Ground- impending effects of climate change in the near future because of our Blue Shield of Massachusetts, beat concert, presented in part- rapidly-warming atmosphere paints the starkest picture yet of what The eagerly awaited Espla- go directly to support the work nership with BAMS (Boston Art awaits life on Earth as we know it if we do not change our ways. nade 5K, which was held virtu- of the Esplanade Association to & Music Soul) Fest, from noon ally last year due to the pandem- revitalize and enhance the park. to 4 p.m., at the Hatch Shell. Our planet has warmed by an average of 1.1 degrees Celsius since ic, will return to the park as an “We’re trying to faithfully “BAMS Fest is overjoyed to mankind started belching carbon gases into the atmosphere from the in-person footrace on Sunday, bring back as many things in per- partner with The Esplanade burning of fossil fuels in the late 19th century. Aug. 29, kicking off at the DCR son as possible, and the 5K was a Association to curate the line- Scientists have long told us that an increase of 1.5 degrees in global Hatch Memorial Shell at 9 a.m. signature event that we’re happy up for their annual Ground- Beat series,” wrote Catherine T. temperature represents the tipping point at which life as we know it Runners of all levels and to bring back, as well as one of our longest-running events,” said Morris, founder and executive becomes all but impossible. Almost all of today’s living creatures, both abilities are encouraged to par- ticipate in the footrace, which Michael Nichols, executive direc- director of BAMS Fest. “Over in the oceans and on the land, will not survive if the Earth becomes takes a riverfront route along the tor of the Esplanade Association. the years, we have been fortu- nate to present over a dozen of that hot. Charles and offers unparalleled For the first time year, the local Black and Brown artists We already are seeing the dramatic and dire consequences of what water and garden views against Esplanade Association is plan- ning a Community Day to and bands. The Hatch Shell is a happens at our present 1.1 C level: The polar ice sheets are melting, the backdrops of both the Bos- beautiful place and we are excit- ton and Cambridge skylines. “wrap around” the 5K, said the permafrost areas in the Arctic Circle in Siberia are catching fire, Nichols, with family-friendly ed to bring a little magic and our Proceeds from the event, which epic floods are striking everywhere, massive superstorms threaten events taking place throughout culture to this space.” coastlines, out-of-control wildfires scorch vast swaths of forest acre- A nonprofit dedicated to age and pollute the air across hundreds of miles, coral reef bleaching breaking down racial and social barriers in the arts across Greater is turning our oceans floors into dead zones, and heat waves are kill- Boston, BAMS Fest has previous- ing humans and animal life in every corner of the globe. ly partnered with the Esplanade The U.N. report basically states that an increase to 1.3 Celsius Association on its award-winning already is baked (no pun intended) into the next 20 years or less, “GroundBeat: The Esplanade’s with every .10 increase adding exponentially to the damage. In other Free Riverfront Music Series.” Meanwhile, the Esplanade words, no matter what we do, things are going to get worse. Association is encouraging run- On the other hand, perhaps the only good news in the report is that ners to stop by their office at 575 the increase to 1.5 is not inevitable -- but that is ONLY if we adopt Boylston St., Suite 4R, to pick up policies now and we put them into place starting today. The global their bibs before the race in an effort to reduce long lines and economy cannot turn on the proverbial dime, but we can move incre- unnecessary crowds on the day mentally over the next 20 years to eliminate the carbon footprint of of the event. each and every human being so that the 1.5 threshold is not breached. PHOTO COURTESY OF BRENT DOSCHER Runners are seen near the Storrow Lagoon during the 2019 Esplanade The bottom line is that we are running out of time to save the 5K presented by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts. (Esplanade 5K, Pg. 3) planet and preserve civilization as we know it. Some might point to the high economic cost of changing our consumption of energy from fossil fuels to clean alternatives. And to be sure, that conversion will cost trillions of dollars over the next two decades. Hotel Alexandra (from pg. 1) But the costs of climate-related catastrophes -- in both economic residential condo units, with 71 project to highly desirable com- floor restaurant or retail concept. and human terms -- soon will far outweigh whatever the price may be of them being Compact Living pact residential con-dominium Instead, most of the changes will to convert to clean energy. Units (CLUs) under the City’s units that are smaller in scale be made to the interior layout to Unless we change our ways, there literally will be no place on Earth new guidelines. It will include and accordingly more affordable achieve the new floor plans for a mix of studios and one-bed- than most units on the market in condo units rather than hotel that will be safe to live. To paraphrase the great heavyweight boxing rooms that will be for sale. the general area. These residenc- rooms. champ Joe Louis, we can try to run from climate change, but there Alexandra Partners told the es will be part of the strong fabric A rooftop lounge open to the will be nowhere on our planet to hide. Sun the hotel market in Bos- of the surrounding communities public has been scrapped, how- ton has been severely impacted and add more residents with an ever, and will become amenity by COVID-19, one of the most ownership stake in the neigh- space for those living in the pro- impacted markets according to borhood. In accordance with the posed condo building. most industry studies. They said city’s Inclusionary Development That does ensure that the his- with that in mind, the boutique Policy, 13 percent of the units toric façade, which is made up of THE BOSTON SUN hotel concept approved in 2019 will be affordable under BPDA unique sand-stone and wrought- and nearly ready for construc- guidelines. We remain entirely iron fencing, will be preserved as President/Editor: Stephen Quigley tion in early 2020, had become committed to a full and complete it was touted to be during review Marketing Director: Debra DiGregorio unfinanceable. historic restoration and preserva- meetings in 2018 and 2019. “In short, building a new hotel tion of the Alexandra and devel- The changes will require a ([email protected]) in 2020 was completely out of the oping these homes within the review process, and will also Art Directors: Kane DiMasso-Scott, question and it is estimated by parameters of previously grant- require a trip to the Zoning industry analysts that the Boston ed approvals. With this change, Board. A key part of that will Scott Yates hotel market will not return to the project is now known as the be the fact that the building will Reporters: Seth Daniel, pre-pandemic levels for perhaps Alexandra Residences.” include no vehicle parking, but a [email protected] five years,” read a statement to Some of the key points will be lot of bicycle parking. That will the Sun from Alexandra Partners. that the massing and preserva- likely be discussed in Article 80 Lauren Bennett, “As a result, we have pivoted to tion and design of the project will community and IAG meetings [email protected] converting the existing approved not change, including a ground that will be upcoming. August 12, 2021 THE BOSTON SUN PAGE 3

Esplanade 5K (from pg. 2) Nichols expects participation year’s virtual race, which took “There’s probably not time for runners a safe distance apart esplanade-5k-2021. will fall somewhere between– the place from June 1 to 7, 2020. it to sell out,” Nichols said Mon- from each other. To register a team for your 1,000 runners that the event typi- Within that timeframe, partici- day, “but for a variety of rea- Order your bib for the foot- group or company, contact Sam- cally drew in pre-pandemic times pants were allowed run or walk sons, we wouldn’t mind a smaller race for $25 each (or $20 each uel Englert at senglert@espla- and 300 - the number that took 5K (3.1 miles) anywhere in the event this year.” for Esplanade Association nade.org. part in last year’s virtual 5K. world at their own pace. With this in mind, safety mea- members, or a bib and one-year If you are interested in vol- Runners from three coun- This year, however, is a dif- sures will be in place for this membership to the Esplanade unteering for the event, email tries (the U.S., Brazil and India) ferent story, with the footrace year’s footrace, said Nichols, Association for $40) at https:// Christine Francois at cfrancois@ and 13 states participated in last returning to its traditional format. including taking steps to keep sub5racing.redpodium.com/ esplanade.org.

BVHDC (from pg. 1) Board of Appeal have approved from the corner when standing a terrific project.” the “BVNA voted not to oppose. there is “never uniform support the project. in front of the existing church Commissioner Ruth Knopf I agree with Steve Dunwell’s for projects, this one does have Berry said that the “most building. The penthouse will said she agrees with Dunwell, observations that the added broad support.” She added that important” proposed change to feature “minimal” detailing, adding that “I think that the details and subtle changes have she feel sit is “important to get the existing church building is and the upper portion of the changes that have been made are improved this project with each this project done” as soon as making it accessible for future addition will have “interlock- really enhancing.” iteration. Not everyone in the possible so as to preserve the his- residents by removing the stairs ing zinc panel cladding,” Berry Several members of the public neighborhood is in favor of this toric church before it is too late. at the front of the building. said, that will feature “a variety also made comments, including project, but a large majority are The BVHDC voted to approve She said that when the archi- of widths.” The color will be a Tom Perkins and Sarah Herlihy supportive.” this project with the proviso that tectural team conducted research “classic weathered gray,” and of the Bay Village Neighborhood Herlihy said that this project all materials chosen for the exte- on the church building, it was that color will also be in the mul- Association. “has been through three differ- rior of the building be discussed lions. In the chat, Perkins wrote that ent developers now,” and while found that the existing stairs are with Landmarks staff. At the northwest addition, the not original. “What is currently team has proposed “an ironspot there today is not what was there masonry,” but the color has yet historically,” Berry said. to be officially chosen. The team The proposal includes 18 con- is looking at either a “very dark dominium units, with one one red brick that does not attempt bedroom unit and the remaining to match the existing building,” 17 units are a “mix of generous- Berry said, or a “true purple iron ly sized two and three bedroom clad brick” that is darker. The units,” she said. Wherever possi- entirety of the northwest addi- ble, the units are provided with tion will be clad in this material. balconies or roof terraces that Some other minor details were are accessed by individual units also discussed by the Commis- only. sion and the project team. Parking is provided at street There was a question about level off of Piedmont St., and the alley from the Commission, bike storage will be provided, as and the team said that the alley well as bike racks at the front of is owned by The Marc condo- the building. There will be a new miniums and this project has an sidewalk installed along Isabella easement to use it. St., and landscape improvements All in all, the Commission will be made at the front as well. seemed pleased with the changes Berry also briefly described presented and praised the project the layout of the building, saying as a whole. that the ground floor includes “Overall, I think you’ve parking towards the rear, and improved the design, especially in the one bedroom unit. This unit the back corner with the removal is considered a loft unit, and will of the balcony [from a previous span from the ground floor to the proposal],” said Joe Cornish, first floor. Levels two through five Director of Design Review for will feature different units, and the Boston Landmarks Commis- You show up, take on everything levels six and seven are duplex sion. He also praised the fact that they throw at you, stand up for what you believe in, and get the units with private roof terraces. the additions have been located job done. We’re proud to stand

The upper level is set back from away from the sidewalks so more Bankwith East Boston Savings right alongside you. the edges so it is less visible. of the existing church building “In terms of the approach to can be focused on. the architecture, the church build- “From what the commission ing itself as we have noted before had seen in January and Febru- will be completely restored,” ary, it’s an even better project,” Berry said. The masonry and the Cornish said, adding that he’s stone detailing will be cleaned, “seen nothing but good improve- and areas that need repointing ments.” will be repointed. Commissioner Stephen Dun- “All of the existing windows well said that he is a fan of the are well past their life,” she detailing around the windows, as added, so they are being removed well as the “sense of verticality and replaced with windows that that comes up over the vaulted replicate the detail and color of windows and so forth. I think it the existing ones. comes together very nicely.” He NMLS # 457291 The addition, which begins at continued, “I’m very much in Member FDIC | Member DIF 800.657.3272 EBSB.com the fourth floor, is only visible favor of it; I think it’s going to be Facebook.com/EastBostonSavingsBank PAGE 4 THE BOSTON SUN August 12, 2021

Fundraising (from pg. 1) some details about the owner of “Local campaigns now are as will make you feel good and then time.” online using that same credit that address. While such opera- professional as higher level cam- give them money, or will make Acting Mayor Kim Janey’s card – and reporting contribu- tions have been common on the paigns and this technology can you so mad you’ll give them team has also utilized such tech- tions to state agencies is made far federal and state level for some be used in even very small races,” even more money…With all this nology and spent $4,500 with easier than it was when people time, this is the first open-seat he continued. “It’s so scalable. It technology and databases from Battleaxe Digital in June for dig- sent checks and gave cash. mayoral race with numerous exists and it’s right there to take Google and Facebook, they even ital fundraising. Campaign man- “It makes it so much easier candidates since 2013, and so it’s advantage of whether it’s for a know who you are. This tech- ager Kirby Chandler said it is and it’s a relatively easy way to also the first time that new tech- presidential campaign or for dog nology is very efficient because one tool of many they are using go about fundraising these days,” nology like e-mail digital fund- catcher.” it’s easy and you can raise more to build grass-roots support and he said. “It’s also useful for larger raising operations have trick- Suffolk University Political money. I’m not surprised it’s buy-in. contributions too. People don’t led down to a major municipal Science Professor Ken Cosgrove being used this way in the may- “We use a number of tools to have to go out and find the cam- election in Boston. Experts say said it’s more than just e-mails in oral election this time.” activate our grassroots support- paign to give them a check. Even it’s likely a trend that will only the inbox, but it’s a serious digi- Cosgrove added that the com- ers and contributors whether without a pandemic, this kind of expand and go further down the tal operation that targets voters panies used by the candidates for via email, texts or social media,” fundraising is way easier in con- political office chain. in different neighborhoods with digital fundraising use databases said Chandler. “While fundrais- temporary campaigns.” It can be a little creepy, and different stories and pleas. He and information from places like ing is a part of that outreach, it is they are prolific, but according said one person in one part of the Facebook Audiences and Google also meant to keep supporters up to political science experts – they city may get a different e-mail to find voters by neighborhood, to date on the campaign and the All aboard for the are efficient and successful. than another person – and some- by race, by profession and even Mayor’s work on behalf of the ‘Merch Store’ express by religion. He said they have residents of Boston.” “There has been a huge times two people in the same Another aspect of the digi- Councilor Annissa Essaibi expansion of digital fundrais- home can get different, tailored learned to make tailored appeals tal campaign fundraising arm is George’s campaign spent ing, especially since the mid- to pleas for fundraising. to like-audiences using a number what has now become known of different criteria. $16,000 with Liberty Square late- 2000s when it was utilized “This is one of the things that as a ‘Merch Store,’ or an online So, when those e-mails asking Group and LB Strategies in so successfully by the Obama Trump brought back to Repub- campaign merchandise store. for donations and talking about June for digital work, including campaign,” said Northeastern licans that they were good at in For some candidates, gone are a warm and fuzzy story, or a e-mails that they said have been Professor Costas Panagopou- the 1980s,” he said. “You can the days of handing out combs, contentious policy argument, successful in reaching donors at los, chair of the Political Sci- raise a lot of money three dollars fingernail files and bumper stick- hit one’s inbox – it comes after a critical times and to inform cam- ence Department, who noted it at a time and several times over. ers with their logos for free to great deal of digital research on paign supporters of work that’s supporters and potential voters. was actually Republican John Barack Obama also did a great each person. going on. McCain that first used the tech- job expanding on that idea. Peo- Instead, some candidates choose Councilor Andrea Campbell’s “We use fundraising emails at to open a merchandising opera- nology. “The Obama fundraising ple think it’s only $3 and only campaign utilizes the technology the end of the month to boost success is what put him on the one Starbucks coffee a week. It tion, said Suffolk University Pro- with great success so far, using our numbers and make that fessor Ken Cosgrove. That action map in 2008. One of the main doesn’t sound like much…You the national company known last minute push with a sense of reasons for it was so many small have to talk about these candi- goes hand-in-hand with the dig- as MissionWired – which has urgency,” read a statement from ital fundraising e-mails. He said donors giving in small amounts. dates now as consumer products done similar work for campaigns the campaign. “Sometimes we Those small donations add up to and this is an offshoot of it. They when people give their money, like President Joe Biden and choose to send short ‘reminder’ and are encouraged with a tai- very large sums. Campaigns have are selling you something – poli- Vice President Kamala Harris in emails such as the one (the paper) been leaning on digital fundrais- cies and stories…The fundraising lored story, they will often want 2020. In June, Campbell’s may- is using as an example, and some- to buy something to support that ing technology ever since in pres- e-mails are important for that oral campaign spent $27,000 times we provide more of a fun idential races. because they tell you stories that action afterward. on services from MissionWired campaign update. We also use Therein lies the magic fund- companies and has shown strong these fundraising emails to boost raising capabilities of the ‘Merch fund-raising numbers most every engagement amongst our list and Store.’ month as a result. make sure we are regularly using “It’s smart because you turn Her campaign said they didn’t it to our advantage.” people into your mobilized ad want to directly comment on John Barros’s campaign also force and they pay you to do their strategies for fundraising, uses the e-mails, but to a much it,” he said. “That’s something but did comment that roughly 50 lesser extent and at a much lower that Trump brought to politics percent of their donations have cost. In June, that campaign paid with his red hats. It took a pro- been raised online. $340 to MailChimp for sending fessional marketer and salesman Councilor Michelle Wu’s cam- out fundraising e-mails and other like him to bring that to politics, Why have some communities not paign has also utilized the e-mail communications. but it’s here. It’s no different than fundraising to a great degree, They did not respond with a been a part of medical research? the Bruins or Red Sox gear peo- spending $5,000 in June with comment for this story on their ple wear around. It doesn’t cost You can help researchers develop new and better Authentic Campaigns – anoth- digital activities. much to make this stuff and treatments that benefit all of us. er major player in the digital Panagopoulos said don’t you can make a good chunk of Many groups of people have been left out of space. The campaign said they expect such fundraising practic- change selling it. In a race with research in the past. That means we know less about have been successful using the es locally to fade out with the this many candidates, building their health. When you join the All of Us Research new tool to reach people where pandemic, as they were around brand recognition matters.” Program, you'll help researchers learn more about they’re at and allow more people prior to the pandemic and will To this point, Councilor Wu what makes people sick or keeps them healthy. to participate in the fundraising continue to expand their reach has opened a Merch Store, using JoinAllofUs.org/NewEngland aspect of the campaign. afterwards. He said it is a cheap, the familiar purple colors with (617) 768-8300 “We’re proud to have the user-friendly way for campaigns ‘Wu!’ emblazoned on the mate- greatest number of grassroots to raise money fast from a lot of rials for sale. donors and volunteers in this people, while also keeping them Acting Mayor Janey has one *All participants will receive $25 after completion of their race,” read a statement from connected to the campaign. It visit. To complete the visit, participants must create an of the more robust Merch Stores, account, give consent, agree to share their electronic the campaign. “Reaching out by has also come at a time when health records, answer health surveys, and have their with her purple and dark yellow measurements taken (height, weight, blood pressure, etc.), email has helped us meet people people have grown more com- colors on T-Shirts, hats, stick- and give blood and urine samples, if asked. where they’re at to power our fortable making online purchas- ers and more. She has even pre- All of Us and the All of Us logo are service marks of the U.S. campaign—whether by pitching es using their credit card, and so Department of Health and Human Services. miered a T-Shirt in her colors in a few dollars or giving their they aren’t as wary to contribute that says, ‘Madame Mayor.’ August 12, 2021 THE BOSTON SUN PAGE 5

Ward 5 Democrats (from pg. 1) Ward 4 Dems to host Ice the race as of early August. nature and style, and we believe Our campaign is organizing in The Ward 5 Democratic Com- Michelle’s vision and leadership every neighborhood of our city, mittee said: “Our members voted will be transformational for our and this endorsement will help Cream Social on Aug. 29 overwhelmingly and wholeheart- city. We are proud to put our full supercharge our campaign to Staff Report anywhere else!) for a fun after- edly to endorse Michelle Wu support behind her in this fight, have thousands of conversations noon of good ice cream, good Boston Ward 4 Dems 10th for Mayor of Boston. To put and ready to knock on doors, with neighbors. I look forward toppings, and good conversa- Annual Ice Cream Social -- Sun- it simply, Michelle is the best make phone calls and get to to organizing in partnership with tion. The event is co-hosted by day, August 29, 2 pm to 4 pm choice for Mayor of Boston: work to ensure she is our next the Ward 5 Democratic Com- City Councilor At-Large and -- Titus Sparrow Park: Join fel- she has a long track record of Mayor.” mittee through Election Day and mayoral candidate Michelle Wu. low Democrats from Back Bay, being a problem solver who has Michelle Wu said: “Boston beyond.” Questions? Email ward4dems@ Fenway, and the South End (and established herself as a visionary Ward 5 Democratic Committee The Ward 5 Democrats’ gmail.com. leader who is ready to tackle the has been leading the way for pro- endorsement adds to the Wu biggest challenges facing our city. gressive activism and organizing campaign’s enthusiastic coalition Acting Mayor Janey’s Movie Night As Democratic activists, we’ve for years, and I’m so proud to supporters including leaders Sen- experienced her collaborative have their support once again. ator Elizabeth Warren, Ward 1 set for Sept. 10 on the Common Councilor Lydia Edwards, State Staff Report Upcoming events in the area Senator and Assistant Majority are as follows: Leader Sal DiDomenico, former The Boston Parks and Rec- •Friday, September 10 State Representative and Assis- reation Department ParkARTS “Star Wars: The Rise of Sky- tant Majority Leader Byron program presents Acting Mayor walker” Rushing; union like Teamsters Kim Janey’s Movie Nights in Boston Common, 38 Beacon Local 25, New England Joint nine local City of Boston parks Street, Boston, 02108 Board of Unite Here!, Alliance from Monday, August 9, through All ParkARTS performanc- of Unions at the MBTA, MBTA Friday, September 10. es are free of charge. For more Inspectors Union Local 600, All shows begin at dusk. The information, please call (617) OPEIU Local 453; environmen- series is sponsored by Bank of 635-4505. To stay up to date tal organizations like Sunrise America and Xfinity, and hosted by with Parks Department news, Boston, Sierra Club, the Envi- Mayor Kim Janey and the Boston events, and projects, sign up for ronmental League of Massachu- Parks and Recreation Department. our email list at bit.ly/Get-Parks- setts, 350 Mass Action; as well Additional support is provided by Emails and follow our social as groups like Progressive West the Mayor’s Office of Tourism, channels @bostonparksdept on Ward 5 Chair Sharon Durkan passes out literature to members of the Roxbury/Roslindale and the Sports, and Entertainment and Twitter, Facebook, and Insta- Committee. Ward 4 Democrats. media partner JAM’N 94.5. gram. Historic Window Replacement with The Proper Bostonian. It’s about time.

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1-877-JBSash1 | jbsash.com PAGE 6 THE BOSTON SUN August 12, 2021 India Day Festival returning Aug. 15 to Hatch Shell

By Dan Murphy the United Kingdom on Aug. 15, 1947, said Gowda, and atten- After a three-year absence, dance in recent years has ranged with the event going virtual from 8,000 to 15,000, depending last year due to the pandemic on the weather, among other fac- and moving to City Hall Plaza tors. for two years in both 2018 and When the festival took place 2019, respectively, the India virtually last year, it afforded the Association of Greater Boston’s IAGB the opportunity to stage long-running India Day Festival a bigger event, said Gowda, is returning to the DCR Hatch that included a concert with Memorial Shell on the Esplanade “high-quality performers.” on Sunday, Aug. 15, from 3 to 7 This year, the festival will p.m. have three parts, said Gowda, India Association of The including first, the “cultural per- PHOTO COURTESY OF INDIA ASSOCIATION OF GREATER BOSTON Greater Boston (IAGB) was start- formance or entertainment pro- The last India Day Festival which took place on the Esplanade in 2017. ed as a socio-cultural organization gram.” with the goal of bringing the area’s For the second part, vendors democracy in the land of the oldest “We love having the park serve ation of Greater Boston is proud to the Indian community together in 1962 from all over New England, he in land of democracy,” he said, as a venue for all manner of musi- celebrate India Day every year for and held its first India Day Festi- said, will be selling their wares, “as well as a celebration of democ- cal and cultural programming,” several decades,” said Gowda. “It val soon afterwards. And from the including Indian crafts, jewelry, racy, a celebration of unity, and a said Nichols, “and it’s great to see attracts everyone and is the perfect 1980s until 2017, the event was and clothing on site. celebration of the Indian American the India Day Festival back on the spot for the entire family to enjoy held on the Esplanade, said Sanjay Third, the Food Mela, added community.” Esplanade.” the events at the Hatch Shell and Gowda, IAGB President Gowda, will features booths Michael Nichols executive Likewise, Gowda is pleased to other activities along the river.” The festival always takes on a from five area restaurants serving director of the Esplanade Associa- see the event again returning to the Visit iagb.org for more informa- weekend around India Indepen- up cuisine from all over India. tion, said his group is thrilled to see Esplanade. tion on India Day Festival, or iagb. India Day Festival making its return “The Esplanade is a beautiful, org/sponsorship/ for sponsorship dence Day, which commemorates “This is a free event, open to to the park this summer. iconic place, and the India Associ- opportunities. the country’s independence from all, and a celebration of the largest Renowned artist Janet Zweig to create interactive public sculpture on Common

Staff report versary in Boston, famed public sculpture – a hand-crafted, dou- bringing people together to take artist Janet Zweig will unveil ble-sided, wooden cabinet with care of something we all deeply In celebration of the Friends a large, participatory public removable illuminated markers value. Our partnership over these of the Public Garden’s 50th anni- that invite discussion about own- past 50 years has made us stron- ership for an installation called ger and it makes our parks better The Beacon Hill Times - beaconhilltimes.com “What Do We Have In Com- for future generations,” said Liz The North End Regional Review - northendregionalreview.com mon?” beginning Sept. 22 on the Vizza, Friends of the Public Gar- The Boston Sun - thebostonsun.com Boston Common. den President. The Charlestown Patriot-Bridge - charlestownbridge.com The Boston Common is a The cabinet will also serve as a powerful backdrop for this expe- Giving Library for the public to The Our annual Guide to Schools is a resource for parents running rience. Prior to the arrival of take texts on the theme of shared GUIDE TO in 4 Boston newspapers Europeans, the land that became resources. There will be fiction, on September 16 the Common was occupied by poetry, children’s books, and SCHOOLS! In the hands of 75,000 the Massachusett tribe that con- There, a non-profit public art histories of Boston Common, weekly readers sidered all land to be held in com- organization bringing tempo- available for all to take and book Promote your mon. As America’s first public rary, site-specific artworks to plates will be signed by Zweig. school or Open park, it has 387 years of history. all neighborhoods of Boston, Reflective of the Common’s rich It has witnessed executions, ser- and the installation will also be cultural diversity, 34 of the 200 Houses with us. mons, protests, and celebrations. part performance. Boston-based markers in the cabinet will be in It has hosted famous visitors and Spanish, Haitian Creole, Manda- Beacon Hill, Back Bay, North End, Fenway, Kenmore, South End & Charlestown Guides will pull out blue illumi- everyday gatherings of friends rin, Cantonese, Vietnamese, and ADVERTISING IN THE GUIDE: nated markers from the cabinet and family. The earliest towns- each day and engage passersby in Cape Verdean Creole. Many of LISTINGS Free Listings with every Ad! people grazed their cows and the Guides, who will be prompt- A brief text descriptive and contact information $80 per listing, {not included with ads} conversation around questions We have sections for Schools, DayCare, After School Programs, kids related retailers. beat their rugs on the Common. printed on the markers such as: ing conversations with the pub- DISPLAY ADVERTISING - all ads run in color in all 4 papers. The arrival of Boston’s public “Who Owns the Moon?” “Who lic, will self-identify as Black, $60 per column inch -(2x5 and under) ads that run in the guide can run at this rate through water system in 1848 was her- Owns the Shadows?” and “Who Indigenous, and People of Color. October. Now + There’s Executive COMMON AD SIZES alded by a Water Celebration at Owns Happiness?” “Who Owns 2 col (3.9”) X 2” - $240 the Common’s Frog Pond attend- the Trees?” At night, the cabinet Director Kate Gilbert adds: 2 col (3.9”) X 5” - $600 ed by thousands. Martin Luther and markers will glow, lighting “Participatory public art enliv- Quarter Page = 2 col x 8” (3.9” wide) $900 King, Jr. spoke from Parkman up the park as a reminder of the ens spaces and galvanizes people. Half page and Full page pricing available on request Bandstand on April 23, 1965. care needed to protect the beauty With Janet Zweig’s decades-long Prior sections are available if you would like to to see samples. after a mile-long freedom march and dynamism of public spaces history of sparking contempla- Please call or email with questions. Deadline September 9, 2021 through the streets of Boston. On that we own in common. “What tion through subtly whimsical Deb DiGregorio Advertising Oct. 1, 1979, Pope John Paul II Do We Have In Common?” will approaches, plus the 10 Boston 781-485-0588 x 101 [email protected] celebrated the first papal mass in be on view for 30 days. area citizens acting as the pulse Sioux Gerow Advertising North America to 400,000 peo- “What Janet Zweig has so of ‘What Do We Have In Com- 617-241-8500 [email protected] ple. poetically brought to light is mon?,’ we’re posing provocative “What Do We Have In Com- the crux of this work of being Published by the Independent Newspaper Group mon?” is curated by Now + stewards of common resources: (Janet Zweig, Pg. 7) August 12, 2021 THE BOSTON SUN PAGE 7 SEDLC hears advisory review for proposed seven-story building on Washington St.

By Lauren Bennett the right,” and the seventh and vocabulary to make it comfort- perd said he had some concerns End, but in other neighborhoods top floor will “really step back,” able in the South End.” about the proposed height, but in the city as well. The South End Landmark Brown said. Right now, he said he doesn’t he did like that part of it was set The project team said that the District Commission (SELDC) The residential lobby will be feel that this building meets that back. However, he said that he proposal as it stands “fits into on August 3 heard an advisory located to the right, and the retail criteria. “Very often, South End doesn’t notice the setback from what the market needs,” and this review for a proposed seven-sto- space will be able to be subdi- buildings diminish in scale as all angles of the renderings that number of stories is what is need- ry building at 1395 Washington vided to allow for “flexibility for they go up,” Freeman said. He were down. ed to make it work financially. St., which is currently home to a tenancy in the building,” which continued, “buildings next to He said he is not sure any Attorney Marc LaCasse said one-story commercial structure. is something that’s desired by the each other usually recognize building above 70 feet would be that “the notion that a variance Architect Dartagnan Brown project team. the horizontal alignments of the “approvable,” as “that’s the rule for height or any of the other presented the proposal, saying The materials for the facade buildings adjacent to them in for the neighborhood and this dimensional requirements is that the project team has recently are proposed to be a lighter stone some way.” He told the project lot.” unusual is simply not the case filed a rejection letter to kick off colored brick, and there will be team that they “need to bring Additionally, Shepperd said in Boston,” LaCasse said. He the Article 80 process with the the “ability to open up at the in a little bit more of that in this “I think we will want to have said that at the Zoning Board Boston Planning and Develop- living rooms with the Juliette design to make it comfortable in some more details about various of Appeal, “you’ll hear no fewer ment Agency (BPDA), and were deck.” the South End.” things John mentioned,” such as than 200 variances being granted looking for some initial feedback The existing building to the He suggested first looking at the lintels and sills, the windows, every other Tuesday.” He added from the SEDLC on the proposal left is five stories, while the one the horizontal alignments, and and the overhang for the bottom that in Boston, the “zoning code as it stands now. on the right has a seventh floor told the team that they need to floor. Balconies were also a topic is intentionally restrictive and “What we’re looking to pro- “that we’re in alignment with,” include the mechanical equip- of discussion. The proposed bal- intentionally archaic…so the city pose is a seven-story residential Brown said. Mechanicals will ment in the presentation, as well conies are a Juliette type. can control the process.” building with 35 units,” Brown be on top of the setback on the as a preliminary signage plan, “I’m not sold on the grayish Overall, Hunt said the team said, adding that there would be seventh floor, but no details were though a master signage plan color” for the brick, he said, as has “done a great job,” calling it “very active ground floor retail.” provided. will be required later. “everything adjacent and nearby “a fine start.” She said she per- The units would be condomini- “That’s a little deceptive, Commissioner Fabian D’Sou- is all red brick. That’s really the sonally did like the light color for ums with a mix of studio, one, guys, sorry,” said Commissioner za took a different approach. He historic nature of the neighbor- the facade. She said that there two, and three bedroom units. Catherine Hunt. Brown said the said he believe it would be “help- hood.” are “a lot of nice moves here. The proposed height for the units would be “individual little ful” for both the Commission Commissioner Hunt said, “I I’m sure it will progress in a fine building is 83 feet tall, but the condensers like you see on the and the project team to “lump” probably agree with a lot of John way.” limit for the area is 70 feet. brownstones.” certain aspects of the proposal Freeman’s comments,” but she The project team said that they “We are truly excited to work Commissioner Freeman said, into different groups “so that also asked the project team why will take the Commission’s com- on this,” Brown said. He also “I like the building and I think that makes for greater fluency they were proposing a building ments into consideration, and said that the team is “really you’ve done some very thought- of discussion,” he said. “I think that is taller than the approv- expect to come back multiple focusing on attention to detail.” ful design and I like your presen- at this point in time, I am less able height. “Why does it always times throughout the city process The top floor of the building tation.” inclined to actually talk about have to be something more, more to continue to get feedback and will be set back “significantly,” He talked about how the specifics.” He wants to make the more?” she wondered. This is an hone the proposal before coming and “understanding the context Commission has decided over issues more concise. issue that has come up for sever- back with an official application of surrounding buildings is the the years what makes a South Commissioner David Shep- al proposals not just in the South for a vote. main idea here,” he said. End building a South End build- The massing of the residen- ing, saying that “it’s not mimick- tial portion will be in between ing historic buildings,” calling the second, third, fourth, and that the “worst way to do a new fifth floors, while the sixth floor construction building.” will be “carrying the band that’s He said that “half” of the quite prevalent in the building to South End’s “architectural

Janet Zweig (from pg. 6) questions that invite reflection Light Rail train stations in Min- and discussion about common- neapolis, and a 1200’ frieze at ality in a way that encourages the Prince Street subway in New everyone to be part of crafting York. While she has created pub- alternative solutions. This is the lic sculpture, interactive works, power of public art.” and performance, “What Do We For Zweig, who lived in Bos- Have in Common?” seamlessly ton and Cambridge in the 1980s brings all three elements together and now resides in New York, for the first time. this is her first public art commis- “After much research, I had sion in Boston. She has worked more questions than answers in the public art realm since the about the idea of commons,” 1990s, consistently creating Zweig said. “The markers ask work that speaks to environmen- a lot of those questions. I am tal issues. Her major projects hoping the Guides, who spread include a kinetic installation on a the markers to the wider public SCAN ME pier along the Sacramento River, around the park over the month, a performance space in a prai- will facilitate many questions Preview participating restaurants, rie on a Kansas City downtown including an important one for prices, menus, and make reservations. green roof, a generative sentence us all: What do we have in com- wall in downtown Columbus, a mon?” light installation and memori- Visit www.nowandthere.org/ DINEOUTBOSTON.COM al in Pittsburgh, a system-wide incommon for more informa- interactive project for eleven tion.

IndependentNewspapers_6-0832x5-5.indd 2 7/26/21 7:08 PM PAGE 8 THE BOSTON SUN August 12, 2021 Roundhouse fight may not be over, but Janey heard ‘loud and clear’

By Seth Daniel on the homelessness and opioid non-profit leaders in this space to also working with mayors in roundly believed by the neigh- crisis on Tuesday, Janey said the see if there’s an opportunity to do other cities to make sure there’s borhood and elected officials to A plan for using the former Roundhouse proposal might get this as supportive housing,” she a regional approach. Too much also be a place the City wished to Roundhouse hotel as a shelter or a second airing. said during the press conference. of this problem has fallen on expand its low-threshold shelter transitional housing is not com- However, she also said that the “We heard loud and clear in the Boston and we’re encouraged by operations – though no one from pletely off the table, according former plan by Victory Programs last community engagement pro- the investment of Gov. Baker to the City had ever said that pub- to Acting Mayor Kim Janey, but and the City that was soundly cess that there were concerns make sure there is more support licly. the neighborhood concerns were defeated by neighborhood and about this. We are doing sup- across the Commonwealth.” In a private meeting, Victory heard “loud and clear.” elected official opposition had portive housing in other parts The plan for Victory Programs Programs officials indicated that In a press conference con- been noted by the Administration. of our City as well. I know res- to use 14 to 35 units in the hotel Chief of Health Marty Marti- versation about federal Rescue “We will continue to work idents of this area felt like a lot at 891 Mass Avenue in the New- nez had indicated not using the Plan dollars being spent partly with residents in the area and was happening there. We’re market Business District was (Roundhouse, Pg. 9) Supt. Cassellius addresses expired licensure, will take test Aug. 14

By Seth Daniel said. “I take this very seriously ward. I would agree with you the district’s 52,000 students par- For ESSER 2, the three pri- and I am resolved to complete this is a lesson learned for all of ticipating in some program. orities identified included social/ Supt. Brenda Cassellius apolo- this task immediately so it’s not us that even though there are In the end, there were robust emotional supports, academic gized to the School Committee at a distraction…We have a school assumptions we should have a programs for many students, acceleration and recovery, and the Aug. 4 meeting for letting her opening in a few weeks and checklist to make sure all these but only 13,000 participated facility improvements. superintendent’s license expire we cannot afford any delays in things are in place and we did and parents complained that the “We have also got a lot of on July 31, and pledged to take ensuring the health and safety not.” hours of the programs were lim- feedback about facility improve- the licensing exam on Aug. 14 to of our children, making sure our School Committeeman iting and the lack of transporta- ments,” she said. bring her into the proper certifi- teachers and school leaders have Michael O’Neill said it was a tion was a major barrier. The facility improvements cation. what they need. I apologize for distraction from the immediate There was also a need for bet- identified included installing air The news was first reported this distraction.” work, but did expect Cassellius ter outreach, Cassellius said. conditioner units in every class- by the Boston Globe last week, School Committeeman to clear it up quickly. School Committeeman DeAr- room that does not currently have noting that Cassellius’ temporary Ernani DeAraujo said he was “Upon reflection I appreciate aujo said he had an embarrassing a/c, tracking air quality, investing and emergency superintendent’s disappointed in himself and the the superintendent talking about moment this summer when visit- in libraries, and upgrading access license had expired on July 31. School’s infrastructure for not her licensing issue,” he said. “It is ing one of the programs, and it to drinking water. When informed, Cassellius said finding this issue and informing a unnecessary distraction unfor- was said there was no transpor- she wasn’t aware of it, and there the Committee when Cassellius’ tunately, and I’m sorry there tation. He said he believed there BACK TO had been a misunderstanding of contract was renewed in June. appears to be miscommunication was, only to find out that he was SCHOOL UPDATE the emergency licensure rules. “So, we may need to be pre- or misinterpretation of the emer- wrong. Supt. Cassellius said her team “There is news about my pared for an interim if that’s not gency waivers versus the tempo- “Of course I followed up and has taken no breaks in plan- license and I’d like to personally successful,” he said of her taking rary waivers…When we voted in there was only transportation ning for the September return to apologize to the School Commit- the test this weekend. “I think June on your contract you were for a certain subset of kids,” school. tee chair and vice chair and mem- this is a very significant disclo- in compliance and this just hap- he said. “I don’t know if I mis- “We have taken no breaks bers that I allowed my license to sure. We evaluated the superin- pened as of July 31, but it’s some- heard or misunderstood, but my and have been planning all sum- expire,” she said. “There was a tendent and from my perspec- thing that could have been taken understanding from the begin- mer for the return to school,” misunderstanding between me tive, I presumed when I read the care of ahead of time with the ning was transportation would she said. “We want the message and my team about the catego- contract those requirements were right information. I appreciate, be provided and I don’t want this year to be about joy, about ry of a temporary or emergen- met in terms of licensure. That like many of our students and that to happen again. We kind of community and re-connecting cy license – and the emergency clearly wasn’t the case. At what our teachers, you have to take a promised the world because we and accelerating learning, under- licenses given during the pan- point should we have asked those make-up exam. I have no doubt had had resources, and what we standing the last 18 months will demic. As you know I came from questions and done our own due you’ll pass with flying colors.” delivered, even it if was strong take far longer to overcome. Yes, Minnesota. I was a fully licensed diligence during the evaluation Cassellius said she would for the subset of families able to there will be COVID protocols in educator and superintendent and process? Clearly we didn’t do inform the Committee about access it, there’s a real disconnect place, but we want to make sure have been so for 30-plus years. I that and that’s a very key piece whether she can remain superin- there. As a Committee member, I our focus is on creating an excel- intended to take the exam in my of information. I understand the tendent while waiting to take the need to learn how to prevent that lent student experience for our first year, but as you know we superintendent’s response, but test and to get the results. That from happening going forward if students.” shifted to support our students for us as a Committee, that’s is something, she said, that state I can.” She said students would likely and families during the pandem- pretty fundamental and we did and City attorneys are studying. be in masks, and there would be ic. I devoted my full attention to miss that.” FEDERAL FUNDING PLAN a much different rhythm to the addressing the health crisis and Chair Jeri Robinson said she SUMMER PROGRAM NOT The ESSER 2 federal fund- school day – including special the license requirements were was also disappointed, and called AS ROBUST AS EXPECTED ing plan was submitted to the times made for social/emotion- waived during the time of the for a checklist of basic items to The Summer Stuff program state on July 30 after a number al discussions and limited time pandemic.” be presented by the Administra- meant to accelerate learning and of public meetings and district working on a computer. She said Cassellius said the pandem- tion when doing evaluations. fun this summer for thousands of roundtables – as well as discus- they will be stressing masks, vac- ic response is still her focus, as “The licensure of all staff is Boston Public Schools (BPS) stu- sions by school leaders at the cines and testing. well as getting school re-opened the responsibility of the Human dents did not necessarily achieve community level. “Working with our public in September. She said she has Resources Department and it its lofty goals, school officials In the plan, Cassellius said health officials, we want our been in contact with the state was our assumption that was and Committee members said at $61.5 million would be going topline message to be that the Education Commissioner about being taken care of by them,” the Aug. 4 meeting. directly to school communities best approach to a safe school the situation, and is finding out she said. “They have usually The schools used an influx of for them to determine the best year is mask, vaccines and test- if there will have to be an interim alerted us that there was an issue, funding and partnerships to cre- uses within the guidelines. This is ing,” she said. “Those are the superintendent put in place until and since there was none, the ate what they hoped would be a the second of three distributions three most effective methods we she takes the test on Aug. 14, and assumption was that everything groundbreaking summer session of monies from the federal gov- have to stopping the spread of then finds out the results later. was in place…Since we have just of learning, fun and activity for ernment, with the larger ESSER COVID in our schools and you’ll “I have in fact scheduled the learned this, we are now taking students this summer – hoping 3 funding coming in the fall and hear those three things repeated test for Saturday, Aug. 14,” she the steps relevant to moving for- to have as many as 80 percent of to be used in 2022. often.” August 12, 2021 THE BOSTON SUN PAGE 9 AG Healey Cappucci announces calls for more run for Mayor of Boston leadership from Bob Cappucci has announced his candidacy for Mayor of state, city on Boston. The following is his announcement. Mass/Cass Bob Cappucci, a lifelong res- ident of East Boston, a retired By Seth Daniel Boston Police Officer, and a vet- Attorney General Maura eran of the US Navy Nuclear Healey visited the South End last Submarine Service, is running for week on the heels of an historic, mayor as the $500 million opioid manufactur- Law and Order candidate. He er settlement, to check in with has experienced the hopes and the kids at St. Stephens Youth struggles of many people in Bos- Programs (SSYP) and call for AG Maura Healey was in the South End last week visiting the SSYP ton: as a Boston police officer; as more action at Mass/Cass. summer program to hear the concerns of youth, but also to discuss the an elected member of the Boston Bob Cappucci, candidate for Healey’s visit came just after issues at Mass/Cass. After reaching an historic settlement with opioid School Committee; as a substi- Mayor of Boston. she had announced a $26 billion manufacturers, she called for more leadership on Mass/Cass from the tute teacher in the Boston Public resolution to a lawsuit levied by state and City. Schools, and as a director of a our children, our seniors, and 14 states, including Massachu- community housing program in our special needs community. setts, against four manufacturers on there,” said Healey. “We need and the need could not be great- East Boston. Bob states, “I love America and distributors of opioids. The urgent action over in that area. er,” she said. These experiences give Bob a and I love Boston. Please vote suit was meant to “hold account- We need leadership from the City Before speaking to reporters, clear and personal understand- for Bob Cappucci on September able several corporations that and the state – convening public AG Healey stopped by SSYP to ing of the issues facing Boston’s 14th, #7 on the ballot. Thank flooded Massachusetts with dan- safety officials with public health visit with the kids in the annual neighborhoods, including educa- you. God Bless you and yours.” gerous opioids and bring desper- officials and with people on the summer program there. She lis- tion, crime, addiction, domestic Learn more at www.bobcap- ately needed relief to people who ground. I give credit to people tened to their concerns, she said, violence, and the small busi- pucciformayor.org on the ground over there try- and then the former Harvard are struggling with substance use nesses that struggle. As mayor he Contact Bob at cappuccifor- ing to do what they can to help, University basketball standout disorder.” will make sure all neighborhoods [email protected] The suit promises more than but we need to do a better job. played some hoops with them in I think we need leadership big Ramsey Park. have much more input concern- $500 million in funding to come ing any real estate development to Massachusetts for recovery time on the issue from the City “The kids talk about finding and the state, and it would start needles in the playground, even projects. Bob warned, “Each efforts and prevention over 10 Boston neighborhood has its years. with bringing all those people where we were playing basket- own unique identity. Oversized SERVICE In the South End, she said it’s together; public safety with pub- ball today (in Ramsey Park),” new construction is threatening time for better leadership from lic health. What’s the game plan? she said. “They talked about DIRECTORY the state and the City on Mass/ What’s the approach? Because trash and litter and a range of to change them beyond recogni- Cass, and she hoped that the set- you cannot let this continue.” issues. I told them to keep speak- tion. I will give neighbors more JOHN J. RECCA tlement will be directed to those She said the proceeds from the ing up. The power I believe is of a say in the approval process suffering in the area. suit should be directed at correct- with our young people. We in that affects their lives.” PAINTING ing the problems seen on Mass/ government need to do a better Bob is Pro-Life, Pro-Police, Interior/Exterior “We were a few steps away Commercial/Residential from Mass and Cass and it’s Cass. job listening…We need to listen Pro-Veterans, Pro-Exam Schools. really distressing what’s going “Every single penny I want to to our young people and what He will represent every person in Fully Insured see go to treatment and recovery they’re telling us.” every neighborhood, he will fully Quality Work fund the Boston Police Depart- Reasonable Rates ment and he will always support Free Estimates Family calls for justice for Mass/Cass murder victim [email protected] By Seth Daniel information, but there hasn’t been The Boston Police Department 781-241-2454 an arrest yet. We simply want to continues to review the facts and Family members of Ricardo see justice being served.” circumstances surrounding this Garcia are asking that justice be At about 8:35 a.m. on Sunday, incident and is asking anyone served for their sibling and son August 8, officers assigned to Dis- with information relative to this that was stabbed and killed on trict B-2 (Roxbury) responded to investigation to contact Boston Mass Avenue in the Mass/Cass a call for a person stabbed in the Police Homicide Detectives at area on Sunday morning. area of Pierson Street and Massa- (617) 343-4470. “We all want justice to be served chusetts Avenue in Newmarket. Community members wishing and people are very, very upset,” On arrival, officers located, Ricar- to assist this investigation anon- said Heidi Garcia, the mother of do Garcia, 34, of Boston, suffer- ymously can do so by calling Ricardo, in a phone interview. ing an apparent stab wound. The the CrimeStoppers Tip Line at 1 “We’re waiting to hear from the victim was transported to a local (800) 494-TIPS or by texting the police and hoping to get more hospital where he was later pro- word ‘TIP’ to CRIME (27463). nounced deceased.

Roundhouse (from pg. 8) remainder of the hotel for similar The hotel use at the Round- Street Inn temporarily used the low-threshold services. Residents house has been abandoned due hotel as overflow shelter space and elected officials, such as to the pandemic pressures and for homeless individuals that Councilor Frank Baker and State the long-time homelessness and were in the process of transition- Rep. Jon Santiago, indicated they opioid quality of life issues that ing to supportive housing else- PLEASE RECYCLE THIS NEWSPAPER did not support the proposal – seemingly pinpoint outside the where. They vacated the proper- among many others. Roundhouse. Last year, Pine ty on July 1. PAGE 10 THE BOSTON SUN August 12, 2021 ‘We Sing Boston’ continues in neighborhood parks ahead of Sept. 25 citywide singing event

By Dan Murphy and “We Sing: Dorchester” on in as participants. and the fun over the summer.” Greater Boston with each other. July 25, respectively, were both “We Sing Boston,” which Unlike other “We Sing Bos- “We’re really trying to broaden “We Sing Boston” – a pro- cancelled due to rain.) began as an offshoot of the out- ton” outings, the Sept. 25 event this message and connect across gram made possible by the Bos- At each stop, the event orga- door rehearsals that Boston Chil- on the Common will feature barriers,” he added. ton Children’s Chorus in part- nizers and audience members dren’s Chorus resorted to hold- a concert by BCC singers and The program will include nership with the Friends of the learn and sing different compo- ing during the pandemic, is also choirs following the traditional some of the songs learned and Public Garden - is continuing to sition together, as opposed to a bringing new exposure to the interaction with the audience, taught in multiple languages at bring interactive live-music expe- traditional concert. organization, which currently has said Hanafin, which they hope the earlier events, said Holder, to riences to outdoor public spaces The all-ages events, which will over 300 young artists from over will include all the individuals reflect the diversity of the Greater in and around Boston, leading comply with local COVID safe- 100 different zip codes in and who attended the previous sing- Boston communities where they up to a citywide singing event on ty guidelines, will also include around Boston in eight choirs. ing events. took place. Saturday, Sept. 25, beginning at games and prizes, including a raf- BCC is now inviting singers, ages “We want everyone who came Holder credits all the work 2 p.m. at Brewer Fountain on the fle for gift cards from Black- and 7 to 18, to join them this fall for to one of the singing events, or that Boston Children’s Cho- Boston Common. brown-owned businesses in the the 2021-2022 season. (Contact who wasn’t able to, to attend to rus has done this summer to The series kicked off on July neighborhoods where they will [email protected] come to the event on the Com- the “generous support” of the 17 with “We Sing: Chelsea” at be taking place. or visit https://www.bostonchil- mon,” said Hanafin. “We also Friends of the Public Garden, Clark Avenue Middle School Attendance has been small- drenschorus.org/our-programs/ want people to see what Boston especially Liz Vizza, its president, in Chelsea and has also includ- er than expected, with 10 to 15 now-is-the-time/ for more infor- Children’s Chorus is all about by adding that he looks forward ed singing events in Roxbury, people at each event to date, said mation.) coming to see our singers sing on to a “long-lasting” partnership Dorchester, Chinatown, and Patrick Hanafin, associate pro- Even though “We Sing Boston the Common for free.” between the two groups. Mattapan. Remaining neigh- ducer of the Boston Children’s has yet to wrap up its inaugural Andrés Holder, executive “The We Sing Boston events borhood dates leading up to Chorus. season, Boston Children’s Cho- director of the nonprofit Boston are truly wonderful, encourag- the citywide event include “We And while the turnout has rus is already looking to next Children’s Chorus, said, “The ing kids of all ages to participate Sing: Mattapan” on Saturday, been less than anticipated, Hana- summer. experience we envision on the in community singing outdoors Aug. 14, from 2 to 3:30 p.m., at fin said, “The kids who are com- “We definitely want to do Common is to connect us and in public parks and schools Harambee Park, 930 Blue Hill ing are having a blast. They’re something over next summer [participants] across all neigh- throughout Boston this sum- Ave., Mattapan; and “We Sing: playing games and learning to where we engage the community borhoods.” mer,” said Vizza. “What could Chinatown” on Saturday, Aug. sing songs, as well as movement and keep singing throughout [the From the onset, the goal of be better, singing, socializing and 15, from 2 to 3:30 p.m., at Chin and dance while singing.” season],” said Hanafin. “Our ‘We Sing’” has been to link sharing together in your local Park on The Greenway Surface In some locations with easy normal programing ends after Boston Children’s Chorus with park?” Road and Beach Street, Boston. pedestrian access, unbeknownst the school year, but we love to communities across the city, Visit https://www.bostonchil- (Two other scheduled events, passersby have stumbled across get together at various outdoor said Holder, while connecting drenschorus.org/our-programs/ “We Sing: Roxbury” on July 18, the singing events before joining places to continue the singing kids from neighborhoods across we-sing/ for more information.

Violent part one crime up 30-percent; other part one crimes down 13-percent

By John Lynds According to the statistics, there reported in the first half of 2020 glary, Residential Burglary, Lar- dents reported so far this year. were 2 Homicides reported in and 23 reported so far this year. ceny From Motor Vehicle, Other However, Auto Theft is up 41.5 Last week the Boston Police D-4 through July 25, 2021. This Non-domestic Aggravated Larceny and Auto Theft. percent with 53 incidents being released its half-year crime stats was an increase as there were no Assault is down 37 percent with According to the report Com- reported during the first half of that compares January 1, 2021 Homicides in the district between 146 incidents reported during the mercial Burglary is down 79 per- 2020 and 75 incidents reported so through July 25, 2021 with the January 1 and July 25 of last year. first half of 2020 and 92 incidents cent with 118 incidents reported far this year. same time period last year and Rape and Attempted Rape is reported so far this year. during the first half of 2020 and Other Larcenies are up 7 per- found Violent Part One Crime is up 23 percent in the area with 13 Overall there were a total of only 25 reported so far this year. cent during the first half of the down in District D-4 as is Non-vi- being reported during the first half 187 Violent Part One Crimes Residential Burglary is down 8 year. There were 819 incidents olent Part One Crime. of last year and 16 reported so far between January 1, 2021 and July percent and went from 71 report- reported during the first half of Part One Crimes are the more in 2021. 25, 2021. This was down from ed incidents during the first half of 2020 and that number decreased serious crimes that the Boston Robbery or Attempted Robbery the 266 Violent Part One Crimes 2020 to 65 incidents reported so to 880 reported incidents so far Police and other law enforcement is down 32 percent with 79 inci- reported during the same period far in 2021. this year. agencies track and in D-14, which dents reported in the first half of last year. Larceny From Motor Vehicles, Overall there were 1,407 includes the Back Bay and South 2020 and 54 reported so far this As for Non-Violent Part One which was a huge problem last Non-Violent Part One Crimes, End, the overall Violent Part One year. Crimes the numbers are down year, has dropped 38 percent with down 13 percent from the 1,610 Crime is down 30 percent so far Domestic Aggravated Assault is 13 percent in Charlestown. These 283 incidents reported during the reported during the first six this year when compared to the down 18 percent with 28 incidents crimes include Commercial Bur- first half of 2020 and 175 inci- months of 2020. same six months in 2020. For Record CORONAVIRUS UPDATE: Applicant: John M. Moran, Esq. Purpose ing and drop ceiling; install new flooring; •A subcommittee of the Com- Due to public health concerns, the :Amend ALT1157969. Excavate new base- carpentry & installation of cabinets and From the Aug. 17, 11 a.m., COUNCIL mission will hold a virtual public hearings that normally would be held ment below seven (7) feet above Boston City fixtures; new appliances and related plumb- COMMITTEE ON PLANNING, DEVEL- meeting on Thursday, August 19, on a week have been postponed or can- Base to finish garden level per plans. ing & electrical work; painting and drywall OPMENT, AND TRANSPORTATION 2021, at 1 p.m. to discuss the proposed celed due to the order of Gov. Charlie Baker. •5 Durham St., St. Botolph. Applicant: repairs. HEARING: Order for a hearing on the sta- rooftop addition at 761-793 Boylston Street. Some meetings, however, have been moved Duane Lefevre & John Burke. Purpose: Ren- •903-909 Massachusetts Ave., Newmar- tus of the Zoning Board of Appeals Execu- to an online or teleconference format under ovate kitchen and bathroom. Headhouse ket. Applicant: WeDriveU, A Division of tive Order and Home Rule Petition. the emergency order on the Open Meeting addition on roof deck. Extend existing stair- National Express. Purpose : No construc- This matter was sponsored by Council- From the Aug. 19 South End Landmarks Law issued by Gov. Baker. way. tion change from taxi parking lot back to or Lydia Edwards, and was referred to the meeting, 5 p.m., online via Zoom (HTTPS:// •276-278 Newbury St., Back Bay. Appli- bus parking lot. Committee on February 24, 2021. US02WEB.ZOOM.US/J/81128892203): FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL - BPS cant: Kojam, LLC. Purpose: Add Restaurant •10 Northampton St., South End. DESIGN REVIEW •Sept. 6: Labor Day occupancy to accommodate the requested fit Applicant: Christopher Corey. Purpose : From the Aug. 19, 10 a.m., COUN- •McKinley Elementary School, 90 War- •Sept. 7-8: Teachers/Paras Report to out on the ground and first floor. A total of No proposed construction. Commonwealth CIL COMMITTEE ON GOVERNMENT ren Ave. Proposed work: Raise the thru-wall school. 4600 square feet, the work to include a full Community Care currently leases this space OPERATIONS WORKING SESSION: flashing where roof meets brick walls, clad •Sept. 9 (Thursday): Grades 1-12 first service bar, 2 restrooms and prep kitchen in as Office space. They would to add Clinic Ordinance on surveillance oversight and walls above the flashing with prefinished day of school. the ground level. 1st floor work to include a to their approved uses. The Tenant occu- information sharing, referred to the Com- aluminum panels. •Sept. 13 (Monday): Pre-K and Kinder- full service bar, hot kitchen line and full ser- pies this building as well as the building mittee on March 3, 2021. The sponsors of ADVISORY REVIEW garten first day of school. vice dining room. next door at 30 Northampton Street, which this docket are Councilor Ricardo Arroyo •595 ALBANY STREET - Proposed •Oct. 11 (Monday): State Holiday, no •962-968 Massachusetts Ave., New- received a change of use for Clinic in 2015. and Councilor Michelle Wu. school. market. Applicant: Joseph Feaster. Purpose: •661-661A Tremont St., South End. work: Raze the existing 2-story brick struc- Change occupancy from Warehouse, Whole- Applicant: James Christopher. Purpose: To From the Aug. 19 Back Bay Architetural ture and replace with a 6-story mixed use From the Aug. 10 Zoning Board of sale Business, Offices and Food Processing construct a rear addition, and head house as Commission Subcommittee, 1 p.m., online building with residential units on the Appeals, online: and Retail Store and add one (1) apartment per the attached plans. No change to occu- via Zoom (HTTPS://US02WEB.ZOOM. upper 5 stories and parking and com- •39 Appleton St., South End. dwelling unit.” Removal of existing floor- pancy. US/J/83439084002): mercial use space on the street level. August 12, 2021 THE BOSTON SUN PAGE 11 Attention to Detail Real Estate Transfers By Penny Cherubino BUYER 1 SELLER 1 ADDRESS PRICE BACK BAY THIS WEEK'S ANSWER Oriolus LLC Selmasson Holdings LLC 265 Clarendon St $3,800,000 Commonwealth 190-7 NT Clickstein, Gregg S 190 Commonwealth Ave #7 $1,800,000 Fess, Darryl J Sullivan, Francis J 14 Dartmouth Pl #2 $485,000 Anukul Haveli LLC BCJC LLC 15 Marlborough St #4 $4,200,000 Kwon, Hyukmin Sullivan, Christopher A 272 Marlborough St #4R $774,000

BEACON HILL Tang, Hao Shan, Yi 13 Lindall Pl #3 $1,000,000 Cabral, Colin G JDMD Owner LLC 45 Temple St #208 $2,000,000 Hu, Bo Tala Lipshutz IRT 6 Whittier Pl #9B $385,000

BAY VILLAGE/SOUTH END/KENMORE New England Urban LLC KB Boylston LLC 132 Boylston St #4 $1,310,000 Charles St South Hldg LLC RGM Ventures 1 LLC 1 Charles St S #706 $1,750,000 Knight, Eric H Susannah Levine Jones 290 Columbus Ave #2 $410,000 Caldwell, Jeffrey S Macri, Edmond R 197 W Canton St #4 $900,000 Timothy R Sullivan RET Beaven Church Court RT 492 Beacon St #21 $1,025,000 Willow Condo LLC 52-209 Charlesgate E 52 Charlesgate E #209 $380,000 Mullin, Caroline Tucker, Andrew J 508 Columbus Ave #1 $2,250,000 Gheiler, Moises Malerba-Smith, Kristen 529 Columbus Ave #6 $845,000 Bakish, Robert Kilic Nuri Est 416 Commonwealth Ave #706 $895,000 Kolman, Olga Marsha R Cohen LT 24 Cumberland St $3,750,000 Wetzel, Ariana Place, Emily M 30-34 E Concord St #4 $710,000 Leitir Moir LLC DYS LLC 670 Massachusetts Ave $2,550,000 Mehta, Adwait G Minasian, Leslie K 684 Massachusetts Ave #3 $650,000 2021 RT Lucsher-Blotnick, Judith 10 Otis Pl #6B $3,325,000 Bai, Aiping Dutil, Dana R 65 Park Dr #11 $400,000 Quinten L Nufer T Dever, Brian 114 Pembroke St #3 $2,200,000 Pond, Jennifer 121 Portland LLC 121 Portland St #710 $1,050,000 Bhat, Arvind Div Shawmut LLC 100 Shawmut Ave #911 $807,900 Butnaru, Avner Cannellos, Stephanie K 247 Shawmut Ave #3 $559,000 Campbell, Nicholas J Begen, Richard M 42 Union Park #1 $4,250,000 Lee, Grace Y Sutherin-Huebner, Laura 76-82 W Rutland Sq #202 $1,100,000 Dai, Amanda J Oelschlager, Ingrid 1313 Washington St #410 $749,000 Karamitis, Gregory Kassels, Steven J 15 Wellington St $3,290,000 Kawahara, Kaye K Pond, Daniel T 43 Westland Ave #506 $1,662,000 Golob, Aaron J Mitchell, Mary S 139 Worcester St #2 $805,000 Ahn, Kihong Sullivan, Brian D 53 Chandler St #4 $850,465 Tian, Hung Mclachlan, Glen 4 Charlesgate E #103 $600,888 ANZ Investments LLC Cameron, Ryan P 12 Claremont Park #3 $825,000 Kesner, Matthew Braemore Condo Assn Inc 464 Commonwealth Ave #74 $621,000 Watters, Christopher Keegan, Charles 26 Concord Sq #3 $905,000 The window in the last clue is located at 463 Massachusetts Avenue. Bixby, Tai Cigan, Eric W 30 Edgerly Rd #2 $859,000 Since 1919 this has been the home of the Women’s Service Club (WSC) Nabbout, Karine Derow, Robert 95 Gainsborough St #8 $740,000 which began during World War 1 to knit scarves and gloves for soldiers. Bobrowich, Eli Karthikeyan, Suri 126 Jersey St #301 $749,000 Today, the group writes, “... as one of the state’s oldest organizations Pull-Miller, Jeffrey 8 Joy St Development LLC 8 Joy St #2 $1,750,000 of, and for women of color, the WSC is proud to continue serving in Booker, Matthew A Andrea E Bell RET 668 Massachusetts Ave #4 $685,000 the rich legacy of its predeces-sors and the WSC still upholds its motto, Hoffstein, Jeffrey Pastore, Fabio 120 Norway St #12 $900,000 “The Open Door,” by welcoming the community to avail itself of its Higgins, Courtney A Caldwell, Jeffrey S 2 Rollins St #D605 $765,000 many offerings.” You’ll find the next clue in the Back Bay. Yuan, Victoria Div Shawmut LLC 100 Shawmut Ave #512 $837,800 Bash, Ryan B Quinlan, Nicole 437 Shawmut Ave #2 $820,000 Do you have a favorite building or detail you would like featured? Dippon, Christian Moses, James A 110 Stuart St #17B $1,850,000 Send an email to [email protected] with your suggestion. Cohen, Marsha Fieger, James M 400 Stuart St #20E $3,550,000 27 Tremont Street LLC Linear Retail Boston 24 127 Tremont St #127 $2,325,000 THIS WEEK'S CLUE 505 Tremont Street 210 RT Bourne, Ira R 505 Tremont St #205 $1,900,000 Debiasi, Gerard A Kritzman, Mark P 129 W Newton St $4,011,843 Huebner, Laura Malin Family LP 76 W Rutland Sq #301-30 $1,950,000 Ezgar, Geoffrey M 46 Wareham Street LLC 46 Wareham St #5D $2,700,000 Baker, Joshua Mcparland, Stephen 7 Warren Ave #6 $1,900,000 Bell, Madeline Rosmarin, Daniel 76 Warren Ave #76 $1,000,000 New Fenway Westland LLC Westland Ave Apt LP 45 Westland Ave $15,224,925 New Fenway Westland LLC Westland Ave Apt LP 57 Westland Ave $15,224,925 New Fenway Westland LLC Westland Ave Apt LP 59-61 Westland Ave $15,224,925 New Fenway Westland LLC Westland Ave Apt LP 65-67 Westland Ave $15,224,925 New Fenway Westland LLC Westland Ave Apt LP 66 Westland Ave $15,224,925 New Fenway Westland LLC Westland Ave Apt LP 68 Westland Ave $15,224,925 New Fenway Westland LLC Westland Ave Apt LP 72-74 Westland Ave $15,224,925 New Fenway Westland LLC Westland Ave Apt LP 76-78 Westland Ave $15,224,925 New Fenway Westland LLC Westland Ave Apt LP 83 Westland Ave $15,224,925 Adams, James J Lichtenstein, David R 1 Worcester Sq #2 $1,940,000 Parsons, Samantha Stephanie L Oliari RET 65 Worcester St #3 $755,000

WATERFRONT/DOWNTOWN Curcio, Robert A Vinios, Louis N 2-1/2 Battery Wharf #4310 $2,100,000 Hylant, Gregory Sevich, Jeffrey S 134 Beach St #6 $1,545,000 Higgins, Morgan Daly, Mary B 357 Commercial St #115 $475,000 Morabito, Adam R Haskell, Scott E 122-124 Fulton St #1 $725,000 Lin, Meidan Row House Investments 29 Oak St #3 $227,900 PAGE 12 THE BOSTON SUN August 12, 2021

BEACON STREET PENTHOUSE

52 BEACON STREET #PH 4 BEDS | 3F 2H BATHS | 5,438 SQFT $9,500,000

16 EXETER STREET #1 1 FRANKLIN STREET #4702 4 BEDS |4 BATHS | 3,882 SQFT 3 BEDS | 4.5 BATHS | 3,172 SQFT $5,450,000 $6,995,000

120 NORWAY STREET #7 48 COMMONWEALTH AVENUE #2 1 BED |1.5 BATHS | 690 SQFT 2 BEDS | 2.5 BATHS | 1,983 SQFT $649,000 $4,450,000

172 NEWBURY STREET • BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS • 02116 • WWW.CAMPIONRE.COM • 617.236.0711