THURSDAY, March 19, 2020 The Sun ublished every hursday erving ack ay outh nd enway enmore P T S B B - S E - F - K A CITY IN CRISIS: BOSTON COPING WITH THE CORONAVIRUS

PHOTO BY KEIKO HIROMI PHOTOS BY KATY ROGERS AND KEIKO HIROMI Women’s Lunch Place Chef Sherry Hughes pushing a cart of food donations through an Shelves were increasingly empty at a supermar- empty dining hall where Women’s Lunch Place usually serves meals in restaurant style. ket in South End over last weekend, as people What is usually a bustling lunchroom on weekdays has become mostly vacant as the Back rushed in a panic to buy food and supplies as Bay non-profit had to suspend its normal lunch and meals program due to the COVID- the COVID-19 response unfolded. Meanwhile, 19 response. Instead, they are offering take-out meals and hygiene/clothing packages. The Rideshare drivers continue to work amidst the beginning of the crisis, serving a prominent COVID-19 responses to helping vulnerable populations is just one of many items on the role in delivering food to those isolating or quarantining in their downtown homes. minds of those coordinating the responses. Walsh, Baker announce measures to combat COVID-19

By Lauren Bennett public with new facts and regula- waiving the one-week waiting tions. period for people to receive unem- No plans to shelter in place Mayor Marty Walsh and Gov- On Wednesday afternoon, Gov- ployment assistance, as well as toring or are under quarantine, near future,” he said in a video ernor Charlie Baker have spoken ernor Charlie Baker announced announced the postponement of according to the Massachusetts message on the evening of March to residents via live-streamed and that all Massachusetts childcare tax payments for some small busi- Department of Public Health. 17. televised addresses over the past and early education centers would nesses. As of press time, the Mayor said He said that many people have several days as the coronavirus close beginning next Monday, As of press time, 2,054 state that 218 Massachusetts residents wondered what is next for the City, situation continues to unfold. As March 23. Some programs will residents are subject to quarantine, have tested positive for the virus, as the San Francisco Bay Area has information related to the virus is be allowed to remain open for the 886 individuals have completed with 45 of those cases in Boston. been ordered to shelter in place, constantly evolving, city and state care of children of first responders monitoring and are no longer in “Public health officials expect officials are regularly updating the and medical personnel. quarantine, and 1168 individuals these numbers to increase in the Baker also signed an order are currently undergoing moni- (COVID-19 Update, Pg. 5)

City Council holds historic The Learning Project School Boston Marathon to be run meeting using Zoom first to ‘flatten the curve’ on Sept. 14 as part of festival

By Lauren Bennett By Seth Daniel By Seth Daniel

The Boston City Council held an unprecedented weekly Last Wednesday evening, as the COVID-19 situation Boston Mayor Martin Walsh, Gov. Charlie Baker and meeting on March 18, where half of the Council appeared in began to feel very real for Boston, one Back Bay school Boston Marathon officials announced they would postpone the Chamber, and the other half participated in the meeting decided it was their moral responsibility to close and sus- the 2020 Boston Marathon until Sept. 14, proposing to have via the remote conferencing program, Zoom, in an attempt pend classes – and became one of the first organizations to a complete weekend-long festival that would support local to follow social distancing guidelines. begin talking about closure as a civic duty. businesses in the Back Bay, Fenway and all along the race- According to the council meeting agenda, “in accordance The Learning Project on Marlborough Street in the Back course. with Governor Charlie Baker’s March 12 Executive Order Bay announced to its families on March 11 that the K-6 The move came on Friday, March 13, and was in response modifying certain requirements of Open Meeting Law private school would be closed in order to help lessen the to the measures taken to curtail the spread of the COVID- to enable public bodies to carry out responsibilities while potential load on medical professionals. 19. It was also a measure that was seemingly out of the ques- adhering to public health recommendations regarding social At that early date in the response, most schools hadn’t tion just three weeks ago. entertained closure yet, and the only ones that did had done Last Friday, all had changed. distancing, the City Council will be limiting in-person atten- so because of specific virus exposure situations. dance for…hearings to Councilors and staff.” The Learning Project’s Head of School Michael McCord (Marathon., Pg. 4) Council President Kim Janey said that this meeting was said it was ironic because it is a school known to never close. “probably” the last time the Council would come to City Information on what to do if you believe you may (Council, Pg. 3) (The Learning Project., Pg. 10) be infected with COVID-19 — Page 13 PAGE 2 THE BOSTON SUN March 19, 2020 editorial In a time of need, Southenders THE COVID-19 EPIDEMIC: band together on Facebook gestions for working out at home businesses are taking an especially A WAKE-UP CALL FOR THE By Lauren Bennett after many gyms have closed their hard hit, and Fox said that South- U.S. HEALTHCARE SYSTEM While the practice of social doors are also topics of conversa- enders specifically want to support distancing due to the coronavirus tion on the page. There are even South End restaurants. With more In the aftermath of the terrorist attacks on Sept. 11, 2001, Americans pandemic has prevented neighbors daily sing-a-longs scheduled for 7 restaurants starting to bring their forever were forced to change the manner in which we traveled. The all over the city from gathering p.m., where residents sing together menus online for pickup and/or strikes on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon made clear that the for community events, many have from their windows—much like delivery service, such as the South screening system we had in place at airports at that time was inadequate creatively figured out how to come videos that have circulated of peo- End Buttery and Stella, “we’re for meeting the threat posed by a determined international terrorist together in other ways to help and ple quarantined in Italy. going to be seeing more and more organization. support each other through these “I think the real measure of of us encouraging to order delivery Long security lines at every airport in this country, as well as around challenging times. the community coming together or to do pickup and this will be a the world, soon became the norm, as new protocols were put into place The South End Community will be when this becomes a little really effective way to support the for our protection against future attacks. Americans didn’t -- and still Board, a Facebook group mod- more acute,” he said, adding that restaurants,” Fox said. don’t -- like them, but all of us understand that the inconvenience and erated by the South End Forum’s a more strict organization of who He said they will push for resi- expense of the enhanced security measures are essential for our safety. Steve Fox, has been a place for needs help and who is willing to dents to support local restaurants Similar to the issue of inadequate airport security before 9/11, the Southenders to connect and pro- help should be implemented. who are struggling. “Anything onset of the world-wide, COVID-19 pandemic has exposed the gross vide ideas and suggestions to pro- “I was asking for how we can we can do to make it happen is shortcomings of the American health care system’s ability to confront a vide assistance to one another, as create a format or a website or a something that all Southenders major health emergency of the magnitude we are facing today. well as to local businesses. The Facebook page or something that are going to be willing to do,” Fox The U.S. is far less capable of dealing with an influx of patients page is typically used by residents would be a one-stop shop,” Fox said. afflicted with coronavirus than every other industrialized nation in the said. “That, I think, is what we “I think we’re in the place right world (as well as many poorer nations). Relative to our population, we to share information or concerns have far fewer doctors, nurses, hospital beds, and acute care capabilities within the neighborhood, but late- need to be prepping for at this now where we’re still reacting to than countries all across the globe that already are struggling with the ly it has turned into a place for time.” the fact that this is happening to onslaught of COVID-19. people to ask for or deliver help in Fox said that a South End sup- us,” he continued. “There’s still With our emergency rooms already at 75-90 percent of capacity at regards to the pandemic. port site will be created “that can a little bit of disbelief that we’re any given time, it will not take much to overwhelm every hospital in Several people on the page have act as a bridge between those who actually in the position that we’re every city in every state if this pandemic comes even close to a worst- offers on the table for things like are willing to provide and those in.” case scenario. running errands, getting groceries, who are willing to ask.” The site Until another site or group page In addition, a huge percentage of our population has no direct access and helping with the housebound would allow people to volunteer gets set up, Fox said he is contin- to quality health care that could identify early exposure to the virus. For or those with particular special to do things at no cost, as well as ually monitoring the South End example, federal emergency officials have urged every citizen to call their needs, Fox told the Sun. offer their services for a fee, such Community board postings for doctor first, rather than just reflexively coming into the doctor’s office, “Those offers have been seen as kitchen or hotel staff who have abuse and scams to keep the South if they suspect they are becoming ill. However, about 25 percent of our as one of the great unifiers for the been downsized. Fox said this End community safe. fellow Americans -- about 75 million of us -- do not have a primary South End community,” he said. would be an opportunity for out- “I feel really, really positive care physician either because they do not have health insurance or are He added that it is still early and reach for people who have excess about the response that I’ve seen underinsured. So what are those people supposed to do -- other than groceries are still available and time on their hands to assist with from my fellow Southenders,” flood into emergency rooms? people are not yet running out particular projects or needs within he said, as many have expressed The bottom line is this: America’s healthcare system is under stress of essential items, but people are the community. wanting to help and support oth- even in the best of circumstances. It is neither designed nor capable of ready to help when it becomes “Given the number of requests ers rather than keeping to them- ensuring the optimum health outcomes for most of our citizenry and necessary. I’ve been getting to join the South selves. excludes a large percentage of our population altogether even in ordi- Others on the page have offered End Facebook page, people are “My sense is I’m seeing an nary circumstances. And ironically, we spend more on our healthcare by things like prepaying hair stylists seeing it as an opportunity,” Fox opportunity that we fundamen- far -- and get less for it -- than any other nation on earth. said, adding that it’s a chance to tally change the way that we as Hopefully, the current crisis will serve as the equivalent of a 9/11 for future appointments and drop- wake-up call so that we can make significant changes to our healthcare ping off tips to restaurant work- “create a greater sense of cohesion a neighborhood interact with one system in order to ensure that every American has access to quality ers. Take-out menus, resources for and a greater sense of resources by another,” Fox said. “It’s a different healthcare for the protection of our people, both individually and col- small business owners and sug- putting tasks and people together.” kind of respect.” lectively. Restaurants and other small Time Out Market Boston closes indefinitely

Staff Report taken in the best interests of pub- unprecedented times and nothing lic health and in order to prioritize matters more than the health and As Boston businesses make the wellbeing and safety of our safety of our guests, teams, con- choices about the best decision to guests, employees, their families, cessionaires and the local commu- prevent the spread of the corona- concessionaires and their teams, as nity as a whole. We have decided virus, many are choosing to close well as the wider community. to temporarily close, as it is our their doors. Below is a statement Everyone at Time Out Market responsibility to do our part to from Time Out Market: hopes to reopen soon, and the protect everybody - we are look- Time Out Market Boston in team will constantly monitor and ing forward to reopening when it the Fenway is closed temporarily evaluate the situation and share is safe and to once again welcome as of Monday morning, March updates as they become available. guests to Time Out Market. 16. The market will be closed for However, timings will be highly “We would like to encourage as long as required to fully sup- dependent on the duration and everyone to support those local port the local and global efforts to severity of the virus outbreak as businesses that are able to remain THE BOSTON SUN contain the spread of COVID-19. well as the response by both gov- open, in particular the venues of President/Editor: Stephen Quigley, [email protected] After closely monitoring the lat- ernment and consumers. our Time Out Market chefs and Marketing Director: Debra DiGregorio ([email protected]) est developments, this very diffi- Right now, no takeout or deliv- restaurateurs which are amongst cult decision was taken following ery service is being offered by the the best of the city. Many offer Art Directors: Kane DiMasso-Scott updates from both health author- vendors at the market. home deliveries and gift cards - Reporters: Seth Daniel, [email protected] ities and local government. More Didier Souillat, CEO of Time now is the time to support them,” Lauren Bennett, [email protected] importantly, the decision was Out Market, said: “These are he said. March 19, 2020 THE BOSTON SUN PAGE 3 The world in self-quarantine all about staying busy, engaged heavily throughout Italy. After a trip to the hospital in Still room for binge-watching Star Trek, some say Through it all, he knew nothing Boston upon returning the last about it. weekend in February, Carrig said An Italian ski vacation has led “I’m semi-retired so I’m not of the concerns.” “It was very difficult there he learned from doctors in Boston to a very solitary 18 days and a relying on my work,” he said. Carrig is an experienced skier because there weren’t any of the that a trip to the ER in Italy was a lot of “Star Trek”-binge watching “I’ve been in kitchen design 30 or who took his annual trip to Italy doctors that could communicate risky situation. He was advised to says one South End resident who 40 years, and I love it. I’m involved for skiing in February with the with me,” he said. “Only one self-quarantine, monitor his symp- began to self-quarantine in the ear- in four projects right now, and I’ve Boston Ski and Sports Club – a doctor spoke any English. I didn’t toms and check back later. liest stages of the COVID-19 out- been working on those at home. I group of about 70 from the Bos- know what was going on. I went He followed the advice. break in Boston. had a concussion so I wasn’t able ton area. However, during the trip for CAT scans, and I never really “Fortunately I was well stocked, Mark Carrig said he went to read, and I usually read a lot. Carrig said he took a nasty fall knew the results. I had no idea and having a concussion, I didn’t under self-quarantine March 1 Frankly, much of my self-quar- that he doesn’t even remember. He about anything at the hospital. I really want to go out,” he said. after a disastrous Italian ski trip in antine time has been spent binge woke up in an Italian emergency knew about the Coronavirus in “I have some great friends who February. He reported he has no watching ‘Star Trek.’ I’ve been room with a horrible headache and China, but had no inkling about it brought me over some fresh Irish symptoms, and is feeling fine – but in self-quarantine for two weeks, doctors struggling to communicate in Italy. No one mentioned it there. Soda Bread that I was able to enjoy is glad he took the precautionary and I’ve only been out a couple with him. He spent five days there When I came back, I realized it for St. Patrick’s weekend. That step to protect his friends just in of times briefly. I decided it was a in February when the COVID-19 was quite an issue.” was really great.” case. good idea when I heard about all outbreak was beginning to spread Without meetings, Neighborhood Associations take a walk

By Seth Daniel toms or exposure to COVID-19 coming days as circumstances per- For more information, reply to or just show up at an announced were invited on the first walk. mit. [email protected] walk. Staying inside, avoiding close “It was so good to be out in contact with people and a ban on the sun and wind,” said President having community meetings has Carol Blair. “I was surprised to left many neighborhood associ- find such flowering goodness - and ations in the South End without many trees beginning to leaf out. I much to do. also noticed it is hard to keep dis- SIMPLY FREE CHECKING So, some decided to simply take tance from passersby on our nar- a walk. row sidewalks.” MAKES LIFE SIMPLE To get some fresh air, to catch The first walk included a mile up with one another (at a safe hike around Chester Square and OPEN ANY NEW CHECKING ACCOUNT distance) and kill the cabin fever, the surrounding streets. They AND YOU’LL RECEIVE FREE: some members of the Chester found forsythia, crocus and hearty Square Neighbors decided to hold Evergreen trees. fresh-air walks. This past Monday The Chester Square Neighbors Instant Issue ATM/VISA® at 3 p.m., those without any symp- intend to have more walks in the check card with access to Allpoint® network Council (from pg. 1)

Hall for a while, and they will and city employees,” calling them henceforth work to do as many “unsung heroes.” He also stressed thinks remotely as possible. the importance of treating every Online Banking, Bill Pay Though there were some techni- resident with respect and empathy, and e-Statements cal difficulties at times, the hybrid especially “our immigrant neigh- meeting mostly went off without bors.” a hitch, and the Council members City Councilor Julia Mejia were able to tackle their regular echoed Councilor Essaibi-George’s agenda, as well as make comments sentiments about educators in the Mobile Banking, People about the ongoing public health city, saying that as a mom who Pay and Check Deposit crisis. Councilors expressed their now has to help instruct her kids pride and gratitude for all those from home, adding it has helped in Boston who are helping during her to realize that Boston teach- these challenging times. ers “are doing a really good job “This is unlike anything we’ve at educating our students.” She Plus, get your FREE GIFT ever had to deal with,” said also said she is looking forward when you open any Councilor Matt O’Malley. “The to supporting “those that are the new checking account! response of Boston has been most vulnerable” in the city, which remarkable and unsurprising.” includes undocumented workers Councilor Annissa Essaibi- who may be struggling right now. George thanked the staff and “These are times we have not school communities who have seen before,” said Councilor Janey. come together to support Boston’s “Folks are fighting hard to get the students as “teachers are looking resources they need. It’s important NMLS # 457291 for new ways to communicate and that we continue to advocate and Member FDIC | Member DIF 800.657.3272 EBSB.com instruct their kids.” She said that lift up those who have been left having her own boys at home has behind.” $50 minimum deposit required to open any checking account. Other fees may apply, see schedule of fees for details. Free “created a very different rhythm Janey said that residents can gift is awarded when account is opened. EBSB reserves the right to substitute a gift of similar value. Please note, in the event the value of the free gift exceeds $10, the bank is required to report the gift value on form 1099-INT. The recipient is for us.” reach out to any council member responsible for all applicable taxes. Bank rules and regulations apply. Ask a representative for details. Councilor Ed Flynn said he for support, and reminded every- wanted to “highlight the tremen- one to “please be kind to each Facebook.com/EastBostonSavingsBank dous work of our first-responders other.” PAGE 4 THE BOSTON SUN March 19, 2020

Marathon (from pg. 1)

“We’re here today to announce the 2020 Boston Marathon will be postponed until Monday, Sept. 14, of this year,” said Mayor Martin Walsh on the portico outside City Hall. “Our expectation and our hope right now is this date will get us to a safer place in the spread of the Coronavirus. It’s a date the [Boston Athletic Association] can make work for its runners, and there’s been a lot of conversations about what date could work…Our priority right now is for the safety Boston Athletic Association CEO and the health of the runners and Mayor Martin Walsh announces the postponement of the Boston Tom Grilk said he supports the the fans, the medical personnel, John Hancock CEO Marianne Marathon to Sept. 14 during a press conference on the City Hall portico decision and the BAA would residents of the Commonwealth Harrison. John Hancock is last Friday, March 13. He said he hopes it can be a weekend-long festi- answer detailed questions about the lead sponsor of the Boston of Massachusetts and visitors from val to help businesses to rebound from the hurt caused by the COVID- logistics in the coming weeks. Marathon. across the country and the world. 19 situation. We want to make sure we keep people safe.” our local economy,” he said. “Our Mayor Walsh said they believe plan is to make the weekend of they can create a festival through- September 14 a cornerstone cam- out the weekend, culminating in a paign to help local businesses new Marathon Monday holiday, recover from this entire episode… Sept. 14. That effort is hoped to You have the chance to run in an help businesses that are suffering historic, once-in-a-lifetime race in through the measures taken to September, and I hope all the run- curb COVID-19, including the ners and people will embrace it.” Mayor Walsh said the regional Marathon date change. economy could stand to lose $211 “The Marathon plays a major million if the race were canceled, while local charities could lose nearly $40 million through cancel- Gov. Charlie Baker will file a House Ways & Means Chair Aaron Michlewitz and Lt. Gov. Karyn ation. That’s why it was decided a bill to make Sept. 14 Marathon Polito. postponement would be idea. Monday. point out that after conversations There are a lot of questions “We hope the economic conse- economy. The BAA will take every with House and Senate leadership, from runners, and Boston Athletic quences are just pushed to Septem- step possible to support this effort. there was an immediate desire that Association CEO Tom Grilk said ber and not lost altogether,” said We could not be more impressed we preserve this very special day,” those would be answered in the Newton Mayor Ruthanne Fuller. by the immense amount of work he said. “I know this is a change coming weeks – things like wheth- Gov. Charlie Baker said he by the City of Boston and the and it probably won’t look right er or not runners need to re-regis- would be filing a bill with the State Commonwealth to not just cancel on the calendar, but it’s certain- ter for the race. Legislature to officially make Sept. the Marathon, but instead take the ly the right thing to do. We have “We’re here to support the deci- 14 the temporary Marathon Mon- less drastic step of postponing it seen before this Boston Marathon sion of the City of Boston and the day event. He said there is wide even amidst a crisis of incredible support in the Legislature for the does define resilience, and I think other seven cities and towns along proportions.” change, and leadership there was everybody once we get there will the Marathon route and the Com- Mayor Walsh and Gov. Baker unanimous in their support of feel the same way we always feel monwealth to postpone the 2020 said there were many discussions moving the date instead of cancel- on Marathon Day.” Marathon until Sept. 14,” he said. about the date, and Walsh said the ing it. The effort also included input “We know that all these munici- new day jumped around “like a “While it may be hard to from other racecourse communi- palities are doing this in support of Newton Mayor Ruthanne Fuller pinball.” believe I’ll be filing a bill to make ties such as Hopkinton, Ashland, all the constituencies served by the talked about the heartbreak of In August, it would have been having to change the date. September 14 this year’s Marathon Framingham, Natick, Wellesley, Marathon – runners, charities, vol- role for our local charities and Monday, I think it’s important to Newton and Brookline. unteers, spectators and our local too hot. Meanwhile, Labor Day weekend is also Student Move-in weekend in Boston and Newton, which ended that proposition. STAY IN AND TAKE OUT Columbus Day weekend in Octo- ber also features college celebra- tions like Family Weekend. In the HELP LOCAL BUSINESSES WHILE STAYING IN end, Sept. 14 proved to be the best option for everyone. Mayor Walsh concluded by Deliveries ★ Takeouts ★ Home Services invoking the Boston Strong mon- During this crisis, here are some South End-area resources. iker – hearkening back to another citywide crisis with the Marathon Consider taking out an ad to and to promote your business at this time, there are many Bombing. people in South End-area who do not go online and use the newspaper for most of their “The Marathon is Boston...The neighborhood information. Marathon connects us, it reflects us and it strengthens our community WE’RE OFFERING THIS SPECIAL PAGE AS A RESOURCE FOR ALL SERVICES spirit and resilienc he said. “We’ve shown before no matter what the IN TOWN THAT PEOPLE MIGHT NEED WHILE STAYING IN. challenge is to our Marathon and FULL-PRINT EDITION WILL BE AVAILABLE ONLINE THURSDAY our city, we are Boston Strong. That’s what we will be again this THE SPECIAL IS A BUSINESS CARD AD FOR 2 WEEKS FOR $80 year in the face of this crisis. On Please reach out with any questions,deadline for Thursday Mar 26 is Tuesday the 24 at noon Marathon Monday, we are going Call 781-485-0588 or email [email protected] for more information to continue to lead the country.” March 19, 2020 THE BOSTON SUN PAGE 5

COVID-19 Update (from pg. 1) place, and other cities are consider- ticketing and towing is suspend- crowds, and to stay at home as ing the same. “We are not current- ed. Trash and recycling pickup much as possible. He did say, how- ly at the shelter-in-place point,” remains on a normal schedule. ever, that although everyone needs Walsh said, but city officials are After hearing that reduced ser- to limit contact with each other, it “monitoring the situation close- vice on the MBTA was causing is okay to go outside for a walk. ly” and are in conversation with more crowds to gather on trains He stressed the importance of the Governor and state officials as and buses, Walsh announced on social distancing, and said that it well. The Governor has also said March 18 that additionally capac- is “not only for at-risk communi- he has no plans to shelter in place ity has been added to allow for ties,” and is “especially important at this time. more social distancing on public for younger and healthier people” “Make no mistake, this is a seri- transit. as they have a responsibility to ous situation,” Walsh said. “We Walsh also announced the Bos- protect the older and more vul- are not powerless and you are not ton Resiliency Fund, which will nerable people. In doing this, “we alone.” provide food for children and can prevent the kind of spike that Attractions, including the New England Aquarium, close to the public. Walsh and city officials have seniors, as well as technology for would cause our health system to taken several measures to slow students to learn remotely, and be overwhelmed,” Walsh said. the spread of COVID-19 in the support for first responders and Additionally, there are plans City of Boston, including closing healthcare workers in the city. in place for staggered hours for all Boston Public Schools through The City has come up with a City Hall employees, and as much April 27, closing all Boston Pub- plan to make sure that BPS stu- as possible, city services will be lic Library branches and Boston dents will receive meals and will offered online. Centers for Youth and Families be engaged with learning activi- “Our goal is to practice social (BCYF) centers, reducing service ties for six weeks, and the Boston distancing,” he said, and said that on the MBTA, and, per Governor Public Library will provide thou- there is extra cleaning going on at Baker’s emergency order, prohib- sands of e-books, audiobooks, City Hall. City parks will continue iting on-premises consumption of and more online. Additionally, to be cleaned as well, and the elec- food or drink at bars and restau- 20,000 Chromebooks have been tion and procurement departments rants. Walsh also declared a public purchased for BPS students to use will remain open. health emergency in Boston, and while learning from home. Walsh urged Bostonians to fol- all city events with more than 25 The Mayor has also set up low recommended precautions, and told residents that he realizes people have been cancelled. resources for businesses to get set Like many businesses, the “We Deliver” sign at Brix wine shop in South “none of this is easy,” as people’s Starting on March 17, Mayor up with delivery services if need be. End showed up Monday as businesses moved to adjust to the response. plans are put on hold, people are Walsh halted all regular activity He said the City will also contin- feeling lonely, and many are wor- at construction sites in Boston. ue to reach out to veterans, immi- ried about paychecks, bills, and “Employers should maintain the grant communities, and the home- struggling to find childcare. necessary crews to keep their sites less population. He said that the city has identi- safe and secure, keep any materi- “Safety is our top priority,” fied safe sites where people can be als from blowing away, and pre- Walsh said, especially for the tested and treated for symptoms vent trespassing,” according to a seniors. “We’re thinking of you,” of COVID-19, and is also in talks press release from the City. This he said to the city’s seniors. He said with lenders and landlords to pre- work needs to be completed by the City’s Age Strong Commis- vent faults for business owners. He March 23, and after sites have sion will be reaching out to senior said that grocery stores will contin- been secured, skeleton crews will buildings and working to contin- ue to be open and home delivery ue the in-home service that many be allowed on the sites to make will continue. seniors rely on. sure the safety measures remain He praised Stop and Shop for in place. The only permitted work “The actions all of us take now holding special hours for individ- will be emergency work that has will save lives,” Walsh said in his uals over the age of 60 to shop in been approved by the Inspectional March 17 address. He advised order to reduce their exposure to Services Department. residents to keep washing their Boston construction workers break for lunch on Monday, uncertain how crowds, and encouraged all stores long they will continue to work amidst the pandemic. Additionally, street cleaning is hands, wiping down surfaces, cov- to do the same. on a normal schedule, however ering coughs and sneezes, avoiding “These experiences present unique challenges,” Walsh said. “Bostonians are coming together in thousands of ways.” He said that choosing to practice social distancing shows care and concern for neighbors. “We’re going to keep relying on each other,” Mayor Walsh said. “Bostonians are resilient. We are being tested again but just look at who we are and the strength we possess. There’s nothing we can’t do when we stand together.” The most up-to-date informa- tion can be found at boston.gov/ South End restaurant Bar Mezzana was one of many restaurants in the coronavirus, and to sign up for the neighborhoods that were called to close during the response to COVID- City’s daily text service to receive 19 last weekend. A sign on the door indicated they were closed for the information, text BOSCOVID to foreseeable future. 99411. A Coronavirus sign on Washington Street by Blackstone Park. PAGE 6 THE BOSTON SUN March 19, 2020 BBAC approves temporary vestibule for restaurant on Newbury Street

By Lauren Bennett would be hanging below the railing Other commissioners com- felt with the banding on the build- tion from the string lights affecting line of the installed fence around mented that since the temporary ing it was better to hold a straight their building. The Back Bay Architectural the patio area and removed in entrance would be up in the winter line on the band,” he said. It is “I think the lights make sense Commission met for its monthly the off-season. He added that the when there are no umbrellas on slightly sloped on the top so that as the temporary vestibule makes meeting on March 11, just days umbrellas “wouldn’t really stick the patio, the obstruction of view water can come off of it. “I wanted sense,” said Tom High of back- before restrictions on group gath- up past the handrail line.” into the restaurant would be min- it to be as simple of a structure as bayhouses.org. He did add that erings due to the coronavirus were The temporary entrance pro- imal. possible,” he added. the vestibule “should be as trans- implemented. posed would be used for the cold- “There’s not a lot of space The public had a lot to say parent as possible,” but he thinks Several concerned neighbors est months—January and Febru- inside to get a curtain to work about this proposal, especially this is a “reasonable solution.” successfully,” Trykowski said. The abutters. Connor read two letters Sue Prindle,a NABB member, showed up for what turned out ary—and would consist of a rect- owner of the restaurant also said from neighbors for the record, agreed that the vestibule is a good to be a contentious proposal for angular frame covered in matte that the Boston Fire Department both in objection against the plan. solution, but she was concerned black canvas with windows. The Grand Tour bistro at 314 New- “dislikes” the curtains, even if they Rachel Walsh, who owns a that the umbrellas block the view purpose of the structure is to cre- bury St. are fireproof, as there are concerns business on the lower level of 306 into the restaurant. Architect Tom Trykowski pre- ate a barrier between the cold and with egress. Newbury St., said that she and Alex Mancebo, a resident at 308 sented a proposal for an outdoor the restaurant. Trykowski said Commissioner David Eisen several other businesses have been Newbury St., said that it “would dining area, including six tables, 12 they tried to make the design as asked Trykowski if there are any impacted by the construction of be an injustice to not listen to the chairs, three umbrellas and string see-through as possible. “better looking alternatives” to the patio, and prior to the archi- neighbors. We are clamoring for lighting, as well as the installation Commissioner John Christian- the enclosure, as he felt “it’s just tectural changes to the site at 314 recourse here and we don’t see it.” of a seasonal entry enclosure. sen said he believes curtains seem particularly ugly.” Newbury St., “the line of sight [to The BBAC ultimately voted to Trykowski said that the umbrel- more appropriate, as he was not Trykowski said that there could her business] was uninhibited. The approve the vestibule with the pro- las would be custom-designed as a fan of the design of the tempo- be a discussion on the canvas addition of the patio has perma- viso that it does not set a precedent half-umbrellas with an offset base rary entrance. “Part of the reason I being some made of another type nently affected our visibility by the for the district. Staff will approve and pole, and the string lights don’t like it there…it masks what’s of material. installation of the railing system,” the final design of both the vesti- inside,” he said. BBAC Chair Kathleen Connor she said. She said that though the bule and the umbrellas, but they said she is worried that the struc- railing is transparent, it still result- said they would like to see short- ture “diminishes the entrance” ed in a “significant” reduction er umbrellas and more plexiglass to the restaurant, and suggested of visibility. She added that she on the vestibule for more visibil- ADVERTISEMENT that something like topiaries with believes the seasonal vestibule will ity into the restaurant. The string

SECTION 1.0 - NOTICE TO PROPOSERS white lights. create further obstruction. lights were not approved. CITY OF BOSTON/COUNTY OF SUFFOLK Trykowski said they also looked Another abutter from a nearby “It’s important to have a good MAYOR’S CABINET OF HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES at different shapes for the enclo- residential building said that they neighbor moment,” Connor said sure, such as an arced top. “But I were concerned about light pollu- to the applicants. REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

HHS Rising to the Challenge Adult Shelter Learning Collaborative Event ID: EV00007831 Boylston Street retail bears brunt of coronavirus

The City of Boston, acting by and through its Chief of Health & Human Services (The By Dan Murphy While Marathon Sports and the could potentially hurt sales during Official) is requesting proposals from interested and qualified organizations which Adidas store, located at 671 and what is usually one of their busies operate adult emergency shelters in the City of Boston that are interested in improving 855 Boylston St., respectively, were and updating policies, procedures, operations, and staffing to better serve youth and While many retail stores on times – graduation season. young adults experiencing homelessness who are unaccompanied by a parent and/or Boylston Street near the Boston both open, employees at both busi- Nancy Ong, a salesperson at guardian, as particularly set forth in the Request For Proposals (RFP) Marathon finish line have typi- nesses referred requests for inter- the Lindt Chocolate Shop in the The RFP Documents may be obtained from the City of Boston’s procurement website at cally come to expect to do peak views to corporate. (A represen- Lenox Hotel, who worked during http://www.cityofboston.gov/procurement and by accessing the supplier portal and from business in the weeks leading up tative from Marathon Sports did last year’s Marathon, said the foot- the supplier portal respondents should select the Event ID EV00007831. to and during the event, growing return this reporter’s email Tuesday race also doesn’t typically result in afternoon and offered to facilitate For information relating to this advertisement please contact Varnie Jules, Unit Manager fears over the coronavirus, which a boon in their business, but the of Finance via email at [email protected] or by phone 617-635-4920 x 2149. For an interview with staff from the has resulted in postponing the coronavirus is already adversely information specific to this RFP please refer to the contact person named within the RFP Boylston Store after deadline for Documents or contact Roxanne Longoria, MPH, Director of Strategic Initiatives & footrace, as well as putting strict impacting their sales during one Partnerships by email [email protected] or by phone 617-635-0056. this week’s edition of the Sun). limits on other public gatherings, of their most profitable times – the has seemingly ground commerce At Frette at 776B Boylston St., This RFP opportunity will award up to 5 (five) organizations an amount not to exceed weeks leading up to Easter. $100,0000.00 each to support the community’s recommendations in Boston’s Rising to in the area to a halt. Kate Downey, a sales specialist, “During this time, we usually the Challenge Plan to support young Bostonians experiencing homelessness, and will be “I know from working here said while the store that sells high- used to support young people where they currently are in the emergency shelter system. do a really good business, but not that the Marathon draws peo- end bedding traditionally doesn’t The term of the contract will be one year; there will not be an option to extend or renew. now,” Ong said. “[Ordinarily], I In creating their proposals, applicants should treat this as a one-time funding opportunity ple in,” said Brandon Wells, an see a high volume of business on up to the amount of $100,000. wouldn’t even have time to talk to employee at GameStop, a chain of the day of the Marathon itself, she people.” The RFP Documents shall be available from Monday, March 23, 2020 at 9:00 AM until retail stores specializing in video said fallout from the coronavirus the proposal filing deadline Friday, April 10, 2020 at 4:00 PM. All proposals shall be filed no later than the filing deadline. LATE PROPOSALS WILL NOT BE games with a Back Bay location ACCEPTED. at 647 Boylston St., who hasn’t

Completed proposals must be submitted via the Supplier Portal. The contract awarded worked there during the footrace. pursuant to this RFP shall be for a term of one (1) year commencing on or about July “People are here celebrating, and 1, 2020 and ending on June 30, 2021 (FY’21). This contract shall be subject to the maybe a family will come to watch availability of an appropriation. Mommy cross the finish line, and Responding to this RFP is voluntary. All costs associated with responding to this RFP, Daddy buys the kids a video game including any interviews, will be the sole responsibility of the vendor participating in the RFP response. because there here. But instead it’ll be just like an ordinary day, and The attention of all proposers is directed to the provisions of the request for proposals and you don’t want every day to be just contract documents, specifically to the requirements for bid deposits, insurance, and an ordinary day.” performance bonds as may be applicable. On Monday afternoon, many The Official reserves the right to reject any and all proposals or any part or parts thereof, area businesses, including the and to award a contract as the Official deems to be in the best interest of the public. The Apple Store at 815 Boylston St.; maximum time for proposal acceptance by the Official after the opening of proposals Crate and Barrel at 777 Boylston shall be 90 days. The award of this contract shall be subject to the approval of the Mayor of the City of Boston. St.; Free People, a women’s cloth- ing store at 899 Boylston St.; and Marty Martinez the New Balance store at 583 Chief of Health & Human Services Boylston St., were temporarily

(March 23—April06) shuttered on account of the coro- navirus. Kate Downey, a sales specialist at Frette at 776B Boylston St. March 19, 2020 THE BOSTON SUN PAGE 7 Councilor Wu holds live stream with State RMV re-opened seven locations Special to the Sun through at least Friday, March 20. Road testing will resume only Boston Health Care for the homeless The Massachusetts Registry of after cleaning, personal protective

By Lauren Bennett order to get people the essentials means to provide televisions or Motor Vehicles (RMV) announced equipment and social distancing they need. De Las Nueces also said tablets for their patients. on Wednesday, March 18, it would protocols have been put in place In a second video of a series that limiting exposure of people Councilor Wu asked De Las reopen seven of its 30 custom- to mitigate the risk of COVID-19 of Facebook live streams by City coming to and from the health Nueces about whether or not er-service-center locations, while transmission for permit holders, Councilor Michelle Wu, the coun- center and shelters is important. there would be increased access to asking that customers who do not road test examiners and others cilor spoke with Dr. Denise De Las Additionally. De Las Nueces hand-washing and showers during have immediate needs for required who accompany permit holders said that the program is increasing Nueces, Medical Director at Bos- this time. “Access to hand-wash- in-person services delay their visits. for their tests. Because the Gov- ton Health Care for the Homeless telemedicine capacity as there are ing and showers has always been The RMV facilities that are ernor’s Executive Order provides Program, to disperse more infor- some instances where support ser- an issue, unfortunately,” De Las being reopened prioritize regional that Learner’s Permits dated mation about what is being done vices can still be provided remote- Nueces said, adding that she availability, accessibility and facili- between March 1 and April 30 to help the homeless population ly. doesn’t necessarily see an increase ty size and capacity. To assist with will continue to have an active sta- during the global pandemic of in the availability of these things at “social-distancing” and reducing tus until 60 days after their printed COVID-19, or coronavirus. “I will say, to date, there the moment. facility volume, customers are expiration date. Boston Health Care for the have not been any cases of Additionally, Councilor Wu asked to not bring multiple indi- “While we are re-opening seven Homeless is a “federally qualified COVID-19 among residents asked what the impact will be on viduals with them. Meanwhile, Registry of Motor Vehicles Service community health center that has experiencing homelessness the ability to get treatment for AAA locations will continue to Centers to address the needs of res- been in existence for more than 30 here in Boston....Despite that patients struggling with substance offer select RMV services to AAA years, De Las Nueces said during idents and business customers, we though, we recognize that if abuse. De Las Nueces said that members and road tests will be the live stream, which happened strongly encourage those who can, there were to be a case, that “we are working with the city and suspended indefinitely. at noon on March 17. She said to conduct their business online, the repercussions for this state on identifying spaces…how These steps are being taken fol- the program’s main purpose is to by phone, by mail or to postpone a population would be really to better meet the needs of individ- lowing Gov. Charlie Baker’s decla- “provide the highest-quality care significant.” uals and meet their needs from a ration of a State of Emergency the visit to the RMV and take advan- equitably for all homeless individ- — Dr. Denise De Las Nuecers substance abuse perspective.” week of March 9 to complement tage of the extension of expiration uals and families in Boston.” With Right now, the program is dates for licenses,” said Transpor- its main headquarters on the South the work that has been underway She said she advised the home- keeping the needs of all homeless for weeks across state government tation Secretary and CEO Steph- End/Roxbury border, the program less community on preventative individuals who are exposed to or anie Pollack. “Customers should provides primary and urgent care to keep residents safe and healthy. measures, including hand washing may contract COVID-19 at the expect longer waits as we will need to homeless individuals and fam- Only the following seven RMV more than might be thought nec- forefront. centers will be open effective to limit any crowding in the centers ilies, as well as specialty services, essary and using hand sanitizer if Councilor Wu said her take- March 18 until further notice: Bos- to comply with social distancing such as dentistry. soap and water are unavailable, aways from the conversation were ton/Haymarket, Brockton, Fall protocols. We will be limiting the “We have really been incredibly, not sharing utensils or cigarettes, for folks to wash their hands with River, Lawrence, Pittsfield, Plym- number of people allowed inside incredibly thoughtful over the past and practicing good cough eti- soap if they have access to soap outh and Worcester. Hearings will Service Centers and once those few weeks around our response to quette. and water, for people to not share be conducted at Boston/Haymar- limits are reached, customers will COVID-19,” De Las Nueces said, She said if someone feels like utensils or cigarettes, for people to ket, Brockton, Fall River, Law- have to either leave and come back “because we recognize based on they may have some of the symp- keep a distance from others, and if rence and Worcester. or wait outside until it is possible our work and for the past decades toms of coronavirus, they should they feel sick, to call the hotline at Road tests for permit hold- to let them in while still maintain- with our population that individu- call the 24/7 hotline number at Boston Healthcare for the Home- als experiencing homelessness are ers are postponed at all locations ing social distancing.” 781-221-6565 if they are a Health less. at really increased risk in general Care for the Homeless patient. but also in terms of exposure to She also recommended that if and complications of infectious people have a shelter to go to, they diseases. ”Boston Health Care for should stay there. If they are out the Homeless officials have been on the street, there are clinics at all Community Meeting working “nonstop” for the past the city shelters where people can few weeks to shift the focus of go in and be seen. services to COVID-19 prevention “The city and state have been and response. working nonstop to identify spac- PLAN: Nubian Square “I will say, to date, there have es for isolation and quarantine Monday, March 23 Boston Water & Sewer Commission not been any cases of COVID- for homeless individuals,” De Las 6:00 PM - 7:45 PM 2nd Floor Training Room 19 among residents experiencing Nueces said. 980 Harrison Ave homelessness here in Boston,” De Boston Health Care for the Roxbury. MA 02119 Las Nueces said. “Despite that Homeless is one of many organi- Event Description though, we recognize that if there zations in the city that is projected The March PLAN: Nubian Square workshop will build upon previous PLAN: Nubian workshops and will focus were to be a case, that the reper- to lose hundreds of thousands of on reviewing draft RFPs for Crescent Parcel and Malcolm X Parcel. We will review comments from previous cussions for this population would dollars, if not more. It’s losses like meetings and how they are or are not incorporated into the RFPs. Throughout the evening there will be opportunity for attendees to engage in productive dialogue with City/BPDA team members and each other be really significant.” these that are “deeply impactful” on evaluation criteria and development objectives detailed in the Draft RFPs. She said that since homeless on services that thousands of peo- Draft RFPs will be available for review March 18. individuals do not have homes to ple rely on. As with all previous workshops, feedback provided will be taken into consideration for incorporation into the stay put in, they are at risk of more De Las Nueces said what they RFP documents. easily spreading it. need most is unrestricted dona- PLAN: Nubian Square is an initiative to think strategically about the types of uses and the scale of De Las Nueces said that steps tions to the program so they can development best suited for the future of Nubian Square and Roxbury. PLAN: Nubian Square builds on the Health Care for the Homeless are continue to be able to provide visions presented in bothMEETING the Roxbury Strategic Master Plan and Dudley Vision. taking include: promoting social these services. Those interested in Contact: distancing in the population, not donating can find more informa- Muge Undemir Boston Planning & Development Agency only at the health center but at shel- tion on the Boston Health Care for One City Hall Square, 9th Floor Boston, MA 02201 ter partners as well. They are also the Homeless website. Additional- 617.918.4488 | [email protected] stripping down services to only ly, she said they could use a dona- those most crucial, and having less tion of technology like tablets for bostonplans.org @bostonplans primary-care appointments and people to use for entertainment, Teresa Polhemus, Executive Director/Secretary more urgent-care appointments in as often times they don’t have the CANCELLED PAGE 8 THE BOSTON SUN March 19, 2020 WOMENS LUNCH PLACE SHIFTS TO TAKE-OUT AND TO-GO AMID CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC

Photos by Keiko Hiromi Instead, they are still serving take-out meals, providing toiletries Back Bay’s non-profit orga- and personal care items (includ- nization, Women’s Lunch Place ing socks, hat and scarf for cold (WLP), which serves women who weather) to women who need are experiencing homelessness or them. Food Service manager Chef poverty by providing a day shelter Sherry Hughes of Women’s Lunch community with nutritious food Place says that they are receiving a and personal care, suspended their lot of food donations. community setting services and “My storage is full now,” she restaurant-style meal programs said. due to coronavirus pandemic. Donations came from many restaurants and companies such as Liberty Mutual, Starbucks, Flour Bakery, Trade restaurant and Uni- versity Club to name a few. “This is our fundraising sea- son,” says Jennifer Hanlon Wigon, executive director of Women’s Lunch Place. Wigon says that what they needed last week were hygiene products, but now the greater need is financial support. Hughes says she is working as long she can to serve the commu- nity. “Our ladies have nowhere to Bonnie Zamparelli and Rachel Kline of WLP preparing peanut butter and jelly sandwiches for take-out break- go,” she said. fast.

Shown above: Sam King of WLP handing a scarf to a guest after a guest put a hat on. The Back Bay non-profit has been providing take-out winter wear as well as meals.

Shown to the right: Rachel Kline of WLP preparing take out break- fast meal boxes in the kitchen. Women’s Lunch Place suspended their community meal sitting ser- vices, but have done take-out for women in need this week.

Guest Cathy B. accepts a take-out lunch and hygiene/clothing package from a WLP employee with the dining room closed.

Shown above: Jennifer Hanlon Wigon, executive director of Women’s Lunch Place, putting take-out breakfast meal packs on a cart to carry outside. Shown left: WLP Chef Sherry Hughes (R) working with Rachel Kline (front left) and Stacey Zellen (back) while preparing peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. 0G7A9020.JPG March 19, 2020 THE BOSTON SUN PAGE 9 BBAC, public provide feedback on Harvard Club proposal

By Lauren Bennett tion of the squash building.” ing would be in the three-story to that level on the exterior” of the downs and have the building be Architect Alfred Wojciechows- building. new buildings. more than one height to make it The project team for the pro- ki of CBT Architects said that the Wojciechowski said that the “I want to emphasize that this is more interesting. posed development project at the surface parking lot along Newbury masonry would be complementa- a very important project because of An abutter said that light is Harvard Club at 415 Newbury St. Street would be infilled with a 120- ry to the brick within the rest of the zoning implication,” Sue Prin- important to the neighbors, and came before the Back Bay Archi- foot building and a 36-foot build- the neighborhood. Additionally, dle of the Neighborhood Associa- they would like to see no light tectural Commission (BBAC) for ing along the edge, but access to he said the team hopes to create “a tion of the Back Bay said. “There blocking their building. Margaret an advisory review on March 11. the current alley would remain in nice pedestrian walking situation has not been any kind of variance Pokorny, a member of several local An advisory review lets the Com- place. The existing squash courts along Newbury Street.” within the historic district since the groups, including the Friends of the mission, and sometimes the public, would also be removed. Commissioner John Christian- zoning was created.” She also said Public Garden and the Charlesgate provide feedback on a proposal, “The massing that we have sen said of the taller building, “My the depth of the tower was an issue Alliance, said she is very excited but there is no vote taken. here,” Wojciechowski said, has gut reaction massing-wise is that for her as well. about the reactivation of the street, The project consists of the dem- been discussed in a series of meet- it’s too high. I see it more like the “I think it’s wonderful that as it will become one of the new olition of the existing rear addi- ings with the immediate abutters Somerset at more like 90 feet.” this area is going to be filled with entrances to Charlesgate Park. tion and the construction of a new to the project. He said there is an Commissioner Robert Wein- some buildings,” said Tom High of Wojciechowski said that they addition, as well as another build- interest in having a lower build- traub said he agrees with the backbayhouses.org. He said it was would be following Boston’s Com- ing on the existing parking lot. ing along the surface parking lot three-story building, as “this is both a good idea and a mistake plete Streets guidelines. Abby Goldenfarb of Trinity to allow light and air to permeate kind of a dead area,” and this to look at the proposed develop- BBAC Chair Kathleen Connor Financial said the purpose of the into the buildings on Common- development “could bring it back ment for Parcel 12 in relation to read letters into the record, many project is to upgrade the Harvard wealth Avenue. to life.” He did say, however, that this project. “It’s very important to in opposition of the development, Club’s athletic facilities. The proposed mixed-use build- he would like the monotony of the look at this building and its impact but some in support of the ongoing “We have had conversations ing would replace the fitness and buildings to be downgraded. without Parcel 12 behind it, and public process. with the community about our squash courts and be accessible BBAC Chair Kathleen Connor none of these drawings do that,” Additionally, the project is not initial concept,” she said, “and we with a front door on Newbury said she agrees that the design is he said. as-of-right, so they team will need have changed our concept since Street. It would also include a res- somewhat monolithic. She said Jim Berkman, who is soon to zoning approval before coming that time and today want to get a idential piece. The taller building the historic reference and heritage be sworn into the BBAC, suggest- back to the BBAC for an official sense of feedback on the demoli- will be 11 stories, while the shorter of the Harvard Club is significant, ed that the architects might play vote. one would be three stories. Park- and “something could be brought with height variations to have step Blackstone’s and KitchenWares to consolidate under one roof

By Dan Murphy of the store will serve as Kitch- cutlery by Wusthof, Henkel, Mac, the trek to the new Charles Street Newbury Street,” Hill said. enWares’ new location. Exterior Global and other top brands. location. For more information, call Blackstone’s of Beacon Hill and window signage will reflect In addition, the Charles Street “It’s a pleasant walk through 617-227-4646, email jennifer@ and its sister establishment, Kitch- the change by representing both store will offer a quicker turn- the Esplanade and the Public Gar- blackstonesbeaconhill.com or visit enWares by Blackstones, will brands as well. around for knife sharpening, and den and not really too far from blackstonesbeaconhill.com. soon consolidate their respective “We’ll be closed, but we’ll still long-term plans for 2020 include businesses under one roof at 46 be open for neighborhood needs,” offering delivery services via Uber Charles St. Hill said. “Just knock on the door, Eats. “KitchenWares physical loca- call or email, and I’ll be there to Hill said the Charles Street store tion at 215 Newbury St. is disap- provide items from both stores.” would also offer wedding registry pearing at the end of the month, Hill said the consolidation of and online ordering for all items. but both brands will still be repre- Blackstone’s and KitchenWares “We want the new store to be a sented by their names,” said Jenni- was somewhat inevitable consid- referral spot for people with cook- fer Hill, owner of both businesses. ering how well the two businesses ing questions,” Hill said. “We’ll Blackstone’s of Beacon Hill is complement each other. also offer cooking classes and scheduled to temporarily close its “Customers will get a better demos once we’re up and running. Charles Street storefront on March experience in a more-enhanced It’s all about the in-store experi- 22, for renovations, and when it storefront,” Hill said. ence.” reopens the weekend of March For instance, the Charles Street Moreover, Hill hopes that 28, one half of the 520 square-foot location would soon offer the the faithful customers who have high-quality brands knives now patronized KitchenWares since it retail space will be dedicated to Jennifer Hill, owner of Blackstone’s of Beacon Hill and its sister estab- found at KitchenWares, including opened in April of 2010 will make Blackstone’s while the other half lishment KitchenWares by Blackstones. Boston Public Libraries, Community Centers close down for COVID-19

Special to the Sun services, including e-books, down- ating hours will be announced on alcohol-based hand sanitizer with MEAL SERVICE SITES loadable movies, audio books, and our website, on our social media at least 60 percent alcohol; avoid There are four meal service sites As of 6 p.m. on Monday, other information resources. platforms, and through email.” shaking hands; cover your coughs set up near the South End, Bay Vil- As a part of the City’s school and sneezes; clean and disinfect March 16, all branches of the Bos- lage and Lower Roxbury include closure plan, Chromebooks are BOSTON CENTERS FOR frequently touched objects and ton Public Library (BPL) system the following: were closed until further notice being distributed to every student YOUTH & FAMILIES surfaces; and avoid close contact •YMCA at Wang — 8 Oak St. including the Central Library in who needs one. Students will be All BCYF pools, gyms and with people who are sick. If you Copley Square and the Charles- encouraged to make use of the fitness centers are closed. By think you might be sick, please call 8 a.m.-noon Wednesday, March 18, all BCYF town Branch Library. During this BPL’s vast collection of resources your doctor or 311 to be connected •BCYF Quincy Community during this time. programming was suspended. to the Mayor’s Health Line. Resi- time, BPL will expand automatic Center — 885 Washington St. 9 In addition, all events, classes, Only select BCYF centers will be dents are also reminded to practice renewals, and allow people to keep concerts and talks taking place at open for youth meal distribution social distancing: keep your dis- a.m.-2 p.m. their books and other materials for all locations of the BPL are at this during school closures. For a list tance from others (at least six feet •Blackstone Elementary School an additional 15 weeks, instead of time either cancelled or postponed. of meal distribution locations, go apart); avoid crowded places. — 380 Shawmut Ave. 8:30 a.m.- the standard three weeks. “We are committed to the to boston.gov/coronavirus. Residents are asked to not call 11:30 a.m. All late fines will be waived health, safety, and well-being To protect Bostonians and 9-1-1 unless you are experiencing •Vibrant Boston Community until May 1, and library patrons of our visitors and staff,” read their families from the spread of a medical emergency. The City and Center at Lenox/Camden —136 will have until October to renew a statement from the BPL. “We the virus, residents are reminded BPHC will continue to provide their library card if it is set to will continue to closely monitor to practice caution: wash your updated information on bphc. Lenox St. 8 a.m.-noon. expire. In the coming days and the developing Coronavirus situa- hands often with soap and water org and boston.gov/coronavirus. •YMCA at Huntington Ave. — weeks, BPL will increase online tion. Further updates to our oper- for at least 20 seconds; use an 316 Huntington Ave. 8 a.m.-noon. PAGE 10 THE BOSTON SUN March 19, 2020 SBA to provide small businesses impacted by Coronavirus up to $2 Million in disaster assistance loans

Special to the Sun that have been severely impact- working capital to small busi- economic injury caused by the out credit available elsewhere; ed by the situation. Additionally, nesses suffering substantial eco- Coronavirus (COVID-19). businesses with credit available SBA Administrator Jovita the SBA continues to assist small nomic injury as a result of the •SBA’s Office of Disaster elsewhere are not eligible. The Carranza issued the following businesses with counseling and Coronavirus (COVID-19). Upon Assistance will coordinate with the interest rate for non-profits is 2.75 statement last Friday in response navigating their own prepared- a request received from a state’s state’s or territory’s Governor to percent. to the President’s address to the ness plans through our network of or territory’s Governor, SBA will submit the request for Economic •SBA offers loans with long- nation: “The President took bold, 68 District Offices and numerous issue under its own authority, Injury Disaster Loan assistance. term repayments in order to keep decisive action to make our 30 Resource Partners located around as provided by the Coronavirus •Once a declaration is made for payments affordable, up to a max- the country. The SBA will continue Preparedness and Response designated areas within a state, million small businesses more imum of 30 years. Terms are deter- to provide every small business Supplemental Appropriations Act the information on the applica- resilient to Coronavirus-related mined on a case-by-case basis, with the most effective and cus- that was recently signed by the tion process for Economic Injury economic disruptions. Small busi- based upon each borrower’s abil- tomer-focused response possible President, an Economic Injury Disaster Loan assistance will be ity to repay. nesses are vital economic engines made available to all affected com- during these times of uncertainty.” Disaster Loan declaration. •SBA’s Economic Injury in every community and state, and Process for Accessing SBA’s •Any such Economic Injury munities. Disaster Loans are just one piece they have helped make our econ- Coronavirus (COVID-19) Disaster Disaster Loan assistance declara- •SBA’s Economic Injury of the expanded focus of the fed- omy the strongest in the world. Relief Lending tion issued by the SBA makes Disaster Loans offer up to $2 mil- Our Agency will work directly •The U.S. Small Business loans available to small business- lion in assistance and can provide eral government’s coordinated with state Governors to provide Administration is offering desig- es and private, non-profit orga- vital economic support to small response, and the SBA is strongly targeted, low-interest disaster nated states and territories low-in- nizations in designated areas of a businesses to help overcome the committed to providing the most recovery loans to small businesses terest federal disaster loans for state or territory to help alleviate temporary loss of revenue they are effective and customer-focused experiencing. response possible. •These loans may be used to For additional information, pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts contact the SBA disaster assis- SJC issues order restricting court payable and other bills that can’t tance customer service center. Call be paid because of the disaster’s 1-800-659-2955 (TTY: 1-800- impact. The interest rate is 3.75 877-8339) or e-mail disastercus- appearances to emergency matters percent for small businesses with- [email protected].

Speial to the Sun As a result of the SJC order, appearance in court. Where a jury courthouses will be closed to the trial has commenced, the trial will The Supreme Judicial Court public except to conduct emergen- end based on the manifest necessi- (SJC) on Tuesday ordered that, cy hearings that cannot be resolved ty arising from the pandemic and a because of the public health emer- through a videoconference or tele- new trial may commence after the gency arising from the COVID-19 phonic hearing. Clerk's offices public health emergency ends. pandemic, beginning March 18 shall remain open to the public to Courts, to the best of their abil- and until at least April 6, the only accept pleadings and other docu- ity, will attempt to address matters matters that will be heard in-per- ments in emergency matters only. that can be resolved or advanced son in Massachusetts state court- All trials in both criminal and without in-person proceedings houses are emergency matters that civil cases scheduled to commence through communication by tele- cannot be held by videoconference in Massachusetts state courts phone, videoconferencing, email, or telephone. between today and April 17 are or other comparable means. Each of the seven Trial Court continued to a date no earlier than The SJC and the Appeals Court departments, in new standing April 21, unless the trial is a civil in the coming days will offer guid- orders to be issued March 17, will case where the parties and the court ance with regard to oral arguments define emergency matters for their agree that the case can be decided scheduled in April in these appel- departments. without the need for in-person late courts. The Learning Project in the Back Bay was the first school in the Boston area to close out of a concern for social responsibility last Weds., March 11. School leaders said they felt the virus was closing in and Public Meeting they didn’t want to overwhelm the health care system.

The Learning Project (from pg. 1) “We’re often open during snow- our healthcare system. By staying Boston University 540 Commonwealth Ave storms,” he said. “I think people open, that could make things hard- kind of enjoyed the irony of that. er for people we know and don’t Thursday, March 26 Questrom School of Business, Room 418 We told everyone to treat the first know. 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM 595 Commonwealth Avenue day like a snow day, and then the “I think it was a clear message children really needed to get to Boston, MA 02215 of social responsibility for us in the work.” end,” he said. Project Proponent: McCord said there was no The school was ordered closed Boston University immediate concern at The Learn- for two weeks, but that decision ing Project last Wednesday, but will likely be revisited as one week Project Description: they felt it was the right thing to has already elapsed and things are do as a part of social responsibili- continuing to intensify. Boston University is requesting to amend their Institutional Master Plan to include ty – something everyone is talking The school is heavily invested approximately 16,280 square feet of leased space at 540 Commonwealth Avenue in Kenmore about now, but something few Square. This meeting will serve as an update on this new space as well as other BU spoke of last week. already in technology, McCord development activity. The public is encourage to attend. “We were just feeling that it was said, and all students have iPads. closing in and getting closer and In the normal course of schooling, mail to: Edward Carmody closer,” he said. “I was hearing the students at The Learning Project Close of Comment Boston Planning & Development Agency concerns expressed by many peo- use those iPads for work. That One City Hall Square, 9th Floor Period: said, it is expected to be a smooth Boston, MA 02201 4/13/2020 ple that we needed to close for the phone: 617.918.4 422 greater good. The people dealing transition to an all-home-learning email: [email protected] with this on the frontlines – our environment. doctors and nurses and medical They plan to use online instruc- BostonPlans.org @BostonPlans professionals – could be helped tion techniques and, perhaps,

Teresa Polhemus, Executive Director/Secretary by us closing. This was one way other innovative ways of teaching we could protect ourselves and children online. March 19, 2020 THE BOSTON SUN PAGE 11 ER Docs, major hospitals preparing for potential surge of patients

By Seth Daniel large number of patients requiring patient, hospital staff, and other screening and testing for COVID- hospital patients,” read their web- Numerous public gatherings, 19.” site. “This includes putting the meetings and conferences were While those preparations are patient in a private room and pro- abruptly cancelled over the last playing out, there is also concern viding masks for both the patient 10 days, and at the same time, in the medical community for and care team. Staff has under- major hospitals in the area were adequate supplies at hospitals like gone training for possible cases of preparing for a potential surge of BMC. COVID-19, and BMC regularly Coronavirus (COVID-19) cases – “We have adequate personal conducts staff drills and training all this while financial markets in protective equipment supplies on for infectious diseases.” the United States and abroad show hand for our staff,” said Kibbe. State Rep. (and doctor) Jon instability and unprecedented “Given the worldwide impact of Santiago works in the BMC emer- travel restrictions took effect last this outbreak, we share the con- gency room (ER) and also serves weekend. cern across health care about in the legislature representing the At Boston Medical Center potential shortages of medical sup- South End and Lower Roxbury. (BMC), numerous precautions plies, including N95 respirators. He worked in the ER last week- Major hospitals like Boston Medical Center (BMC), are preparing this were implemented in the past week To ensure that we are able to pro- end, and will continue to work week for a potential surge in patients with coronavirus. Here, outside to prepare for a surge of patients tect our staff and provide safe care shifts every weekend in March. the emergency room, they have set up a triage and testing tent to aid in from Greater Boston neighbor- for patients, BMC has taken steps Uniquely, he will be treating any potential surge. Right now, it is being used for drills, but is being hoods and elsewhere – it being one to conserve personal protective patients on the frontlines in the ER, prepared for real use. of the few Trauma 1 medical facil- equipment, including N95 respi- and also thinking about legislation ities in New England. rators, surgical masks and precau- to address the emerging, multiple ters for Disease Control (CDC) ple things everyone can do: Outside the emergency room at tion gowns.” challenges associated with what is on March 11. While Massachu- •Cover your sneezes and coughs BMC on Albany Street, a tempo- Already, two weeks ago, the now a medical pandemic. setts already received $500,000 with your sleeve, not your hand. rary medical tent was been set up hospital had restricted employee “As an ER doctor and an elect- in federal funding, the state will •Wash your hands frequently to in preparation for triage – if need travel. ed official, my oaths to protect the also receive an additional $11.46 reduce the spread of germs. Wash be. Patients at BMC or its health public is no more important than million in federal funds from the with soap and water for at least “BMC is planning for a surge centers, under federal guidelines, now,” he said. CDC. The CDC has instructed 20 seconds. If soap and water are in patients, as the COVID-19 are being asked if they have had a “I do know it’s going to get sig- state health officers to move for- not available, you can use an alco- pandemic continues to evolve rap- fever or cough or having traveled nificantly worse before it gets bet- ward with distributing that money hol-based hand sanitizer. idly,” said David Kibbe, a spokes- in the last 30 days. They are also ter,” he said. “We’ve had a sluggish immediately to those on the front- •If you feel sick, stay home, and man for BMC. “BMC has set up asked if they have had any close federal response. Medically, right lines. avoid travel. a tent outside the hospital to pre- contact with a confirmed COVID- now we really have to summon out “Our state, local, tribal and ter- •Avoid close contact with peo- ritorial public health partners are pare for potential scenarios relat- 19 case. These questions are asked the best in each of us and empow- ple with flu-like symptoms when- on the front lines of the COVID- ed to COVID-19. While the tent during a phone call or during an er our neighbors and communities ever possible. 19 response. The action we are is currently only being used for appointment. and let them know there are things taking today will continue to sup- drills, it could be used as a testing “For any patient considered at you can do to protect yourself. It port their efforts to increase public location or additional Emergency risk for COVID-19, clinicians will can be things like washing your health capacity where it’s needed SERVICES Department space should we get a undertake actions to protect the hands. If you’re sick, please stay home. If you’re an older person most,” said CDC Director Robert JOHN J. RECCA with chronic diseases like diabetes R. Redfield, M.D. “These funds or lung problems, you should be will allow public health leaders to PAINTING Vulnerable populations need to Interior/Exterior particularly cautious. Likewise, if implement critical steps necessary to contain and mitigate spread of Commercial/Residential be considered as Outbreak Spreads you are a young, healthy person the virus in communities across the Fully Insured and have especially mild symp- country.” While many are thinking about schools, public gathers and civic toms or no symptoms, it would Quality Work Like that, seemingly, everything meetings when it comes to the spread of the coronavirus, some med- behoove you to take precautions Reasonable Rates was on hold or in a holding pat- also because it will be those folks Free Estimates ical professionals are beginning to be concerned about precautions tern. who will be transmitting the dis- [email protected] in the homeless community, the jails and homeless shelters. For those looking to stay ease, maybe in a careless fashion.” Emergency Room doctor and State Rep. Jon Santiago said he is healthy, BMC indicated a few sim- 781-241-2454 From a public policy perspec- concerned about how hospitals like Boston Medical Center (BMC) tive, Santiago said he and others might be able to help those populations if there is an outbreak. are working on several measures. “BMC Emergency Room is the largest ER in town,” he said. One is how to legislate in a safe “We see a number of disproportionately impacted communities and fashion so that the virus isn’t trans- homeless folks. As a physician, we need to be extremely cognizant mitted during lawmaking sessions. of how we educate these patients and making sure they have safe “I am sitting on an internal places to go. I would like to know what our homeless shelters are working group right now,” he said. “We are looking at our doing. What about the jails? I wonder if undocumented immigrants approach to legislating in these feel safe enough to seek care, or if they might be scared ICE will pick trying times.” them up.” He noted the State Legislature Right now, the response is very new, and what is happening with approved a $15 million bill to pro- vulnerable populations is not necessarily being discussed yet. vide more emergency funding for “These are people that live in close quarters,” said Santiago. coronavirus responses statewide “They are also people who are already suffering from a whole host late last week. of diseases. It’s going to be challenging for sure. I do have faith in our The federal government announced a second round of doctors and nurses and public health officials.” emergency funding by the Cen- PAGE 12 THE BOSTON SUN March 19, 2020 St. Cecilia Parish holds historic Mass using video streaming

By Lauren Bennett She said the closest the church tuned in during the stream, and Fr. Unni said that having Mass every other month—virtually. Typ- has come to something like this since then, more than 2,500 people even when it’s not required is ically, people gather with Fr. Unni As many people adjust to work- is recording some of Father John have viewed the Mass. “important for a time like this in person over coffee and donuts ing and learning from home, reli- Unni’s homilies and putting them “We were floored by the num- when there’s so much uncertainty,” to have a conversation about just gious services across the city also on the parish’s Facebook page. ber of people who watched this,” as it provides a sense of familiari- abut anything. But now, Kaye said have to adapt to the social distanc- They, too, have been well-received, she said. “To us, after Catholics ty in very unfamiliar circumstanc- about a dozen people at a time will ing that can help flatten the curve she said. have already received dispensa- es, as well as helps people stick to be able grab a cup of coffee —each of the coronavirus. St. Cecilia holds more than tion, you do not need to go to their routines when everything else from the comfort of their own Until further notice, Cardinal 700 people, and even before the Mass. We were amazed that peo- is turned upside down. homes—and chat with Fr. Unni St. Cecilia Parish is also trying via Zoom or another videocon- Sean O’Malley has temporarily current restrictions on gatherings, ple wanted to connect.” to find other ways that people can ferencing program in an attempt suspended all daily and Sunday the church staff knew that hold- Fr. Unni told the Sun it was “different not having anybody in connect, she said, as the parish to retain some sort of normalcy Masses and religious services in ing Mass was not a good idea as the room when we were used to has 3,000 households and adds with the programs offered by the the Archdiocese of Boston. Addi- more and more information came having [500 to 700].” He said he between 300 and 325 new house- parish. out about the importance of social tionally, he has also issued a dis- was aware of the camera in the holds a year. Kaye said a large Fr. Unni said he hopes the virtu- pensation from the obligation to distancing. church with him and said it was a number of parishioners are young al Masses and other online efforts attend Mass. The virtual Mass that was held “different experience, but I think adults. from the church can instill that But that didn’t stop more than this past Sunday was “bare bones,” it went fine, and we got positive “We are blessed to have a lot sense of familiarity in his parish- 1,500 people from watching a Kaye said, with a few musicians feedback on it.” of young people who are internet ioners. taped Mass from St. Cecilia Parish and lectors joining Fr. Unni while He also said he hopes for this savvy and want something like a “I do think we need to be more in the Back Bay this past Sunday, maintaining social distance. She coming week’s Mass to not have live-streamed Mass,” Kaye said. conscious and aware that it is not a first for the church, said Pasto- said that even though they only glitches, and that everyone who Additionally, St. Cecilia has business as usual,” Fr. Unni said. ral Director of Operations Mary put out one email saying this was wants to connect will be able to plans to do its “Pastries with a Pas- “People are losing their jobs. That Kaye. going to happen, more than 15,00 do so. tor” program—which takes place affects people’s spirits.” News Briefs SOUTH END STREET COUNCILOR ED FLYNN •BU Medical Campus Task Hill and beyond. Boston Trans- Medical Center’s Menino Pavilion. Force March 19; portation Department (BTD) •The East Berkeley Neighbor- SWEEPING CLARITY WORKING REMOTELY •Tremont Design Open House plans to design the project in a hood Association (EBNA) has can- Please note on Mon March 16, Street sweeping is still on in the March 21; way that allows for faster con- celled the next meeting on Tues- Councilor Ed Flynn and his team South End, and the City encourag- •Blackstone Family Gym struction. Below are upcoming day, April 7, but hopes to schedule began working remotely from es residents to move their cars to March 21; open houses in the South End. a meeting in May. allow for Public Works to proper- home. In addition, the Boston City Council facilities will be closed •BCYF Blackstone Spelling Bee Open Houses at the •The next Alexandra Ball Neigh- ly clean the streets. However, the March 21; BPL South End Branch borhood Association meeting is on City said it understand that given indefinitely following the regular meeting on Wednesday, March •Mayor’s Youth and Jobs Library - 685 Tremont St. April 14, 7 p.m., in the Grant AME the current situation with COVID- Resource Fair March 28 •Tuesday, March 17, Noon- Church on Washington Street in the 19 in Boston, moving a car might 18. However, they will continue to work on City Hall matters, con- •Bay Village Neighborhood 8 p.m. **POSTPONED** basement. Potential agenda items be difficult at this time. As a result, Association meetings •Tuesday, April 14, Noon-8 p.m. include Ramsey Park and a stoplight the City is suspending ticketing stituent services, and quality-of-life issues in District 2. At this time, the •Tuesday, May 12, Noon-8 p.m. on Washington Street. and towing for the time being. aim is to help mitigate the threat of BOSTON WARD 4 •Tuesday, June 9, Noon-8 p.m. •The BPDA cancelled the South That said, the City does highly community spread of Coronavirus DEMS CAUCUS: End Urban Renewal meeting that encourage those who are able to (COVID-19) to employees, fam- SOUTH END DATES was to be on Wednesday, March move on street cleaning day, to do ily and friends, and neighbors, as POSTPONED •The March 23 Ellis South End 18, 6 p.m., in the AC Hotel. The The Ward 4 Democratic Com- so. Street sweeping in the South it may pose serious risks to those Progressive Dinner has been post- meeting is expected to be re-sched- mittee Caucus that was to be held End began on March 1. with underlying health issues, poned until further notice. They are uled for a later date. including our seniors. For all con- on March 21 has been postponed working to re-schedule for later this MCKINLEY SOUTH END stituent service requests, continue until further notice. year with restaurant partners. There FENWAY TIMES CASE TESTS NEGATIVE to contact Councilor Flynn’s office are several choices for receiving a •Effective immediately, all Fen- The McKinley South End Acad- at [email protected] or 617- FRIENDS OF THE refund. One can just treat it as a tax way Park tours and events are sus- emy on Warren Avenue was shut 635-3203, and his staff will con- PUBLIC GARDEN deduction, with a statement sent to pended until further notice. down on Monday ahead of other tinue to provide updates on social CANCELS ALL EVENTS you. The payment can be refunded • The Fenway Community Cen- Boston Public Schools due to a media. For health concerns, con- with the check sent back or shred- ter is closed as of March 16, and tact a health provider, or Healthy The Friends of the Public Gar- potential positive case of COVID- ded, or a credit card refund. Or, the the FCC Board of Directors will Boston at (617) 534-5050 and den announced on March 13 that 19 in the school community. Committee can hold the payment reevaluate the current health situ- 9-1-1. they will be canceling all events That person was test- and reservation until a determina- ation and provide an update to the “During this time, it’s critical and programming in the Public ed over the weekend, and it was tion is made to re-schedule. Email Fenway community by April 1. that we continue to be good neigh- Garden and Boston Common reported Monday night that the [email protected] with •LOVE, FENWAY bors, treat all with respect and through April 30. They remind person tested negative for the instructions. Love, Fenway, scheduled for dignity, including seniors, persons the public, though, for the sake of virus. Those worries, in fact, were •The Blackstone/Franklin March 19, has been postponed to with disabilities, immigrant com- fresh air and sanity, that the Com- abated in the South End. Neighborhood Association can- an undetermined date. For those munities, and Asian American mon, the Public Gardens and the celed its March 11 meeting due who have already purchased tick- neighbors,” Councilor Flynn said. Commonwealth Avenue Mall are BPDA MEETINGS to concerns over the Coronavirus. ets, all tickets will be transferred “We’ll get through this period of outdoor spaces and open to all The busy agenda will likely be to the rescheduled date and will be CANCELED disruption staying united, and during this time. rescheduled, but there is no new honored. Following guidance issued by relying on public health officials.” Mayor Walsh recommending the CONNECT DOWNTOWN date as of yet. •Construction Update: MGM postponement or cancellation of THE FOLLOWING OPEN HOUSES •There Board meeting of the Music Hall at Fenway Ellis South End Neighborhood Debris removal and materials public meetings, the Boston Plan- PUBLIC MEETINGS Connect Downtown cre- ning and Development Agency is ates a network of comfortable, Association for March 24 has been delivery are ongoing at the Ipswich postponing all BPDA-hosted pub- ARE/WERE on-street walking and bicycling postponed. and Lansdowne streets, while over lic meetings regarding Article 80 CANCELLED: routes from Columbus Avenue in •The Worcester Square Area at the 189 Ipswich lot, contractors development projects and plan- •Housing Expo March 14; the South End to key locations in Neighborhood Association expect to begin paving in the next ning studies until further notice. •Tremont Design Open House Bay Village, Downtown, Beacon (WSANA) has postponed its week. March 16; March 24 meeting in the Boston What to do if you are sick with MCarch 19, VD 2020 I THE BOSTON SUN PAGE 13 CORONAVIRUS DISEASE 19 coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) C VDI What to do if you are sick with CORONAIfVI youRUS are sick with COVID-19 or suspect you are infected with the virus that causes COVID-19, follow DISEASEthe steps1 below9 to helpcoronavirus prevent the disease from disease spreading to people 2019 in your (COVID-19)home and community. Stay home except to get medical care Clean your hands often If you are sick with COVID-19 or suspect you are infected with the virus that causes COVID-19, follow You should restrict activities outside your home, except for Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 gettingthe steps medical below care. to Do help not go prevent to work, school,the disease or public from areas. spreading seconds. to If soappeople and inwater your are homenot available, and community. clean your hands Avoid using public transportation, ride-sharing, or taxis. with an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol, covering all surfaces of your hands and rubbing them StaySeparate home yourself except fromto get other medical people care and animals in Cleantogether your until hands they often feel dry. Soap and water should be used your home preferentially if hands are visibly dirty. Avoid touching your You should restrict activities outside your home, except for Washeyes, nose,your handsand mouth often with with unwashed soap and waterhands. for at least 20 People:getting medical As much care. as possible, Do not go you to shouldwork, school, stay in ora specific public areas. room seconds. If soap and water are not available, clean your hands Avoidand away using from public other transportation, people in your ride-sharing, home. Also, youor taxis. should use Cleanwith an all alcohol-based “high-touch” hand surfaces sanitizer every that day contains at least 60% a separate bathroom, if available. alcohol, covering all surfaces of your hands and rubbing them Separate yourself from other people and animals in Hightogether touch until surfaces they feel include dry. Soapcounters, and watertabletops, should doorknobs, be used bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets, and yourAnimals: home Do not handle pets or other animals while sick. See preferentially if hands are visibly dirty. Avoid touching your COVID-19 and Animals for more information. eyes,bedside nose, tables. and Also,mouth clean with any unwashed surfaces hands. that may have blood, People: As much as possible, you should stay in a specific room stool, or body fluids on them. Use a household cleaning spray Calland aheadaway from before other visiting people your in your doctor home. Also, you should use Cleanor wipe, all according “high-touch to the” sur labelfaces instructions. every day Labels contain a separate bathroom, if available. instructions for safe and effective use of the cleaning product If you have a medical appointment, call the healthcare provider Highincluding touch precautions surfaces include you should counters, take tabletops,when applying doorknobs, the and tell them that you have or may have COVID-19. This will Animals: Do not handle pets or other animals while sick. See product,bathroom such fixtures, as wearing toilets, gloves phones, and keyboards, making sure tablets, you have and good help the healthcare provider’s office take steps to keep other COVID-19 and Animals for more information. ventilationbedside tables. during Also, use clean of the any product. surfaces that may have blood, people from getting infected or exposed. stool, or body fluids on them. Use a household cleaning spray Call ahead before visiting your doctor Monitoror wipe, accordingyour symptoms to the label instructions. Labels contain Wear a facemask instructions for safe and effective use of the cleaning product If you have a medical appointment, call the healthcare provider Seek prompt medical attention if your illness is worsening (e.g., You should wear a facemask when you are around other people including precautions you should take when applying the and tell them that you have or may have COVID-19. This will difficulty breathing).Before seeking care, call your healthcare (e.g., sharing a room or vehicle) or pets and before you enter product, such as wearing gloves and making sure you have good help the healthcare provider’s office take steps to keep other provider and tell them that you have, or are being evaluated a healthcare provider’s office. If you are not able to wear a for,ventilation COVID-19. during Put use on ofa facemask the product. before you enter the facility. facemaskpeople from (for getting example, infected because or exposed.it causes trouble breathing), MonitorThese steps your willsymptoms help the healthcare provider’s office to keep Wearthen people a facemask who live with you should not stay in the same room other people in the office or waiting room from getting infected with you, or they should wear a facemask if they enter Seekor exposed. prompt medical attention if your illness is worsening (e.g., Youyour should room. wear a facemask when you are around other people difficulty breathing).Before seeking care, call your healthcare (e.g., sharing a room or vehicle) or pets and before you enter providerAsk your andhealthcare tell them provider that you to have,call the or localare being or state evaluated health Covera healthcare your coughs provider’s and office. sneezes If you are not able to wear a for,department. COVID-19. Persons Put on who a facemask are placed before under you active enter monitoring the facility. or Coverfacemask your (for mouth example, and nose because with it a causes tissue troublewhen you breathing), cough or Thesefacilitated steps self-monitoring will help the healthcare should follow provider’s instructions office provide to keep d sneeze.then people Throw who used live tissueswith you in shoulda lined nottrash stay can; in immediately the same room otherby their people local in health the office department or waiting or occupational room from healthgetting infected washwith you, your or hands they withshould soap wear and a facemaskwater for atif theyleast enter 20 seconds orprofessionals, exposed. as appropriate. When working with your local oryour clean room. your hands with an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that health department check their available hours. contains at least 60% alcohol covering all surfaces of your hands Ask your healthcare provider to call the local or state health Coverand rubbing your coughs them together and sneezes until they feel dry. Soap and water Ifdepartment. you have a Personsmedical emergencywho are placed and underneed to active call 911, monitoring notify the or dispatch personnel that you have, or are being evaluated for Covershould your be used mouth preferentially and nose with if hands a tissue are whenvisibly you dirty. cough or facilitated self-monitoring should follow instructions provided COVID-19.by their local If healthpossible, department put on a facemask or occupational before emergencyhealth sneeze. Throw used tissues in a lined trash can; immediately medical services arrive. Avoidwash your sharing hands personal with soap household and water items for at least 20 seconds professionals, as appropriate. When working with your local health department check their available hours. Youor clean should your not hands share with dishes, an alcohol-based drinking glasses, hand cups, sanitizer eating that Discontinuing home isolation utensils,contains towels,at least or60% bedding alcohol with covering other allpeople surfaces or pets of your in hands yourand rubbing home. After them using together these until items, they they feel should dry. Soap be washed and water IfPatients you have with a medical confirmed emergency COVID-19 and should need to remain call 911, under notify home the thoroughlyshould be used with preferentially soap and water. if hands are visibly dirty. dispatchisolation personnelprecautions that until you the have, risk or of are secondary being evaluated transmission for COVID-19.to others is Ifthought possible, to putbe low. on a � hefacemask decision before to discontinue emergency Avoid sharing personal household items medicalhome isolation services precautions arrive. should be made on a case-by-case basis, in consultation with healthcare providers and state and You should not share dishes, drinking glasses, cups, eating Discontinuinglocal health departments. home isolation COVID-19utensils, towels, orcases bedding inwith Massachusettsother people or pets in your home. After using these items, they should be washed Patients with confirmed COVID-19 should remain under home thoroughly with soap and water. Franklinisolation precautions until the risk of secondary transmission 1 as of March 18 to others is thought to be low. �he decision to discontinue Confirmed cases of COVID-19 256 HampdenhomeFor isolation more information: precautions should www.cdc.gov/COVID19 be made on a case-by-case 2 basis, in consultation with healthcare providers and state and CS 314937-D 02/29/2020 Middlesexlocal health departments. 100 Total Number of Cases by County Norfolk 45 Barnstable 2 PlymouthFor more information: www.cdc.gov/COVID19 5

BerkshireCS 314937-D 02/29/2020 17 Suffolk 51 Bristol 5 Worcester 10 Essex 14 Unknown 4 PAGE 14 THE BOSTON SUN March 19, 2020

Attention to Detail By Penny Cherubino Real Estate Transfers BUYER 1 SELLER 1 ADDRESS PRICE THIS WEEK'S ANSWER BACK BAY Shek, Yuanfu Shapiro, Janice 124 Beacon St #6F $860,000 Menzin, Joseph Beacon Mainsail 4 LLC 142 Beacon St #2 $6,375,000 Lemle, Jake Brian T Carty RET 193 Beacon St #1 $2,900,000 Heritage Unit 1202 NT 1202 Heritage LLC 300 Boylston St #1202 $6,250,000 Yoder, Maureen B Kreidie, Abdul R 1 Charles St S #PH104 $2,395,000 Krusser, Kevin R Hudson Holland Jr T 167 Commonwealth Ave #1 $1,150,000 Shields, William M Ostrow, Steven A 191 Commonwealth Ave #33 $2,225,000 Hollingsworth, Sophie H Pope, Gregory S 34 Commonwealth Ave #4 $1,476,000 Balafas, Georgia 13-3 Gloucester St LLC 13 Gloucester St #3 $1,000,000

BEACON HILL Bond, Matthew P Allison, Ali M 18 Garden St #4 $890,000 Reid, Thomas A Lighthouse RT 9 Hawthorne Pl #5M $740,000 6 Louisburg Square NT Wait Linda L Est 6 Louisburg Sq $9,500,000 Allen, David G Lallas James C Est 26 Mount Vernon St #5F $589,000 Li, John Topic, Savo 55 Phillips St #1 $567,500 Oppelt, Drew Knopf, Claude C 79 W Cedar St $2,500,000 Kelly, Brian Qu, Ning 43 Westland Ave #401 $810,000 Swan, Joan H Blair, Wesley K 8 Whittier Pl #14A $605,000

BAY VILLAGE/SOUTH END/KENMORE The building with the elaborate rounded corner windows in Freeman, Hannah H Britt, Adam D 3 Lawrence St $2,995,000 the last clue is at 1140 Boylston Street. Boston atlases show Tomovski, Filip Celona, Jennie M 50 Fenway #2 $815,000 this as a vacant lot in 1899 and as the Carlton Chambers in 1900. Over the years, it was also identified as the Ritz Garvey, Harold J Nevin FT 39 Hemenway St #4 $399,000 Carlton Hotel. Today the property belongs to Berklee College Shaw-Olofson, Hayes Hendrix, Meredith 47 Milford St #3 $2,150,000 of Music. Shrivastava, Alok Nesbit, Peter T 16 Miner St #505 $850,000 The next clue will be found in the South End. Lonbiz LLC Rabbony, Farhan 108 Peterborough St #4H $446,500 Do you have a favorite building or detail you would like fea- Sathappan, Venkatachalam Qiao, Wen 137 Peterborough St #21 $645,000 tured? Send an email to [email protected] with your Davidson, Robert Macculloch, Brad 291 Shawmut Ave #3 $1,770,000 suggestion. Wisbach, John Dipiro, Theresa A 94 Waltham St #2 $875,000 THIS WEEK'S CLUE Harper, Michael A Wagner, David 1313 Washington St #323 $909,188 Singh, Satish K JP Property 1 LLC 3521 Washington St #417 $790,000 Singer, Hannah M JP Property 1 LLC 3531 Washington St #218 $479,000 Wheeler, Alistair JP Property 1 LLC 3531 Washington St #226 $870,000 Lantsman, Stan JP Property 1 LLC 3531 Washington St #313 $450,000 Velichkov, Vessel JP Property 1 LLC 3531 Washington St #322 $760,000 Amos, Jason M JP Property 1 LLC 3531 Washington St #324 $675,000 Cobos, Camilio J JP Property 1 LLC 3531 Washington St #403 $770,000 Thakur, Mrudangi JP Property 1 LLC 3531 Washington St #509 $665,000 Schoeller, Richard JP Property 1 LLC 3531 Washington St #511 $1,293,500 Tavenner, Jordan JP Property 1 LLC 3531 Washington St #513 $785,000 Cao, Senhao JP Property 1 LLC 3531 Washington St #517 $1,050,000 Rohatgi, Ankit JP Property 1 LLC 3531 Washington St #519 $980,000

WATERFRONT/DOWNTOWN Sper, Emily Ward, Lisa 717 Atlantic Ave #5D $782,000 Jackson LLC Douglas C&K B Gribbel 99-105 Broad St #2D $680,000 Deborah B Taylor T Larose, Cynthia J 142 Commercial St #506 $745,500 Park, Andrew S 15 Linden LLC 1 Franklin St #1704 $2,090,000 q q q q q q T&T Millennium LLC Mueller, Mark 1 Franklin St #PH3D $4,880,000 Nflsre 1 Winthrop LLC MM Real Estate LLC 1 Winthrop Sq $75,000,000 March 19, 2020 THE BOSTON SUN PAGE 15

D-4 POLICE NEWS HEADS WILL ROLL not send any money to the caller were all holding sunglasses, then responded to the scene because the suspect down, at which time On March 9, at around 12:25 because this is likely a scam. attempted to distract employees in of the suspect’s combative nature, the suspect brandished a container a.m., police responded to 770 order to get away, but they all left and police were able to transport of pepper spray and sprayed it in Boylston St. on a call for a report- MADE IN THE SHADE the store empty-handed once an her to police headquarters for his face. On Monday, March 9, at ed threat. employee called the police. booking. The suspect then went behind approximately 3:57 p.m., officers On arrival, the officer spoke to The suspects were seen headed Police also responded to the the counter, and when employees responded to a call for a larceny in towards the Boston Common, but the victim said less an hour earli- 7-Eleven and interviewed three tried to stop her, she pulled a knife progress at the Sunglass Hut at 86 a search of the area for them was er, he received a message via the victims, who said the suspect, and waved it at them before steal- Newbury St. to no avail. who had caused previous prob- ing several packages of cigarettes What’s Up app from an known Upon arrival, police spoke to lems at the store and was conse- and fleeing the store. number, and the caller threatened the store manager, who said five HAZARDS OF SMOKING quently barred from the premises While the police couldn’t find a to “put a gun to [the victim’s] suspects entered the store and On Friday, March 13, police by management, followed two knife on the suspect’s person, they head” if the victim didn’t text attempted to steal multiple pairs of responded to a radio call for a back. sunglasses. female suspect with a knife at the friends inside. While her friends did locate a container of pepper After the victim blocked the One male suspect left the store 7-Eleven at 717 Boylston St. purchased some goods, the sus- spray on her, which they seized as caller’s number, he received a mes- with a pair of sunglasses valued at On arrival, officers located the pect began arguing with employ- evidence. sage from another number with $400 as a female suspect attempt- suspect at 699 Boylston St. and ees, and when her friends tried to Officers also confiscated the sto- pictures of decapitated heads and ed to conceal another pair of sun- attempted to take her into custody. convince the suspect to exit the len cigarettes from her, which they bodies, as well as a text message in glasses in her sweatshirt. When The suspect was eventually placed store, she grew increasingly more subsequently returned to the store. Spanish threatening to kill the girls employees confronted the female in handcuffs, and a search of her belligerent, throwing items around Meanwhile, EMTs responded in the victim’s family. suspect, she handed the sunglass- person didn’t turn up a knife, but the store and knocking over a sales to the store and treated the man- Police advised the victim to es over to them before exiting the instead she was found in posses- display. ager on the scene, but declined notify his family members living store. sion of six packages of Newport The manager then came out of transportation to the hospital for in Spain of the incident, and to The other three suspects, who cigarettes. Additional officershis office and attempted to calm further evaluation.

Peterborough Senior Center closed until March 27

By Lauren Bennett the Peterborough Senior Center in will be March 27, the team will contact with our seniors as much “Please remember to practice the Fenway, has decided to close re-evaluate the situation. as possible—including making social distancing, good hand-wash- During times like these, the all programming for two weeks, “At Operation PEACE, our first regular wellness-check phone ing, and frequent hand-washing,” health and safety of Boston’s according to Program Director concern is keeping seniors safe and calls.” Rohrig reminded email subscribers seniors are at the forefront of the Mallory Rohrig. Aside from senior doing our part to limit exposure Operation PEACE is also team- on March 16. “We hope everyone minds of many. programming, Operation PEACE to and the spread of the corona- ing up with the Fenway Commu- stays safe and well!” Operation PEACE, which runs also offers programs for youth and virus,” Rohrig said. “During these nity Center to see how they can adults. After the two weeks, which two weeks, our plan is to stay in help in other ways as well.

For Record CORONAVIRUS UPDATE: Due to public health concerns, the hearings that ate the City of Boston’s preparedness for the coronavirus strain COVID-19. normally would be held on a week have been postponed or canceled due to the guid- This matter was sponsored by Councilors Matt O’Malley, Michelle Wu, and Ed ance of Mayor Martin Walsh and the order of Gov. Charlie Baker. Some meetings, Flynn and was referred to the Committee on March 4. This hearing was previously however, have been moved to an online or teleconference format under the emergency scheduled for two in-person sessions on March 16 and March 17. order on the Open Meeting Law issued by Gov. Baker. Written testimony may be sent to the Committee or staff emails (below) and will be made a part of the record and available to all Councilors. Members of the public are invited to (CANCELED) From the March 19 CITY COUNCIL COMMITTEE ON CIVIL attend and testify via Zoom Meeting. Please email [email protected] the Zoom link. RIGHTS HEARING: A comprehensive list of ways to view and participate in this hearing will be posted online Reason for cancellation: Postponed until further notice. prior to the start of the hearing. Order for a hearing addressing civil rights in the creation of sanctuary safe spaces in Bos- Mail Address: Docket #0458, City Council, City Hall, 5th Floor, Boston MA 02201 ton. The hearing was to be at the St. Stephen’s Church in the South End. Fax Number: 617-635-4203 Attn: Michelle A. Goldberg, Docket #0458 Committee Email: [email protected] (CANCELED) From the March 23 COMMITTEE ON PLANNING, DEVELOP- Staff Email: [email protected] Staff Telephone: 617-635-4645 MENT, AND TRANSPORTATION HEARING: The meeting was to have discussed the appointments of the following. From the March 24 Boston Landmarks Commission hearing, City Hall, 4 p.m.: •Appointment of Susan Trowbridge as a member of the St. Botolph Architectural Con- DESIGN REVIEW servation District Commission for a term expiring on June 30, 2022. •Commonwealth Avenue Mall (Between Arlington Street and Kenmore Street): Land- •Appointment of Douglas Miller as an alternate member of the St. Botolph Architectural scape and lighting improvements at the Collins statue and Garrison Statue. Conservation District Commission for a term expiring on June 30, 2021. •Back Bay Fens: Planting of 52 trees along Park Drive and the Fenway. •Reappointment of Barbara Wennerholm as a member of the St. Botolph Architectural •Charles River Esplanade - Lower Basin Barracks Modernization Project: Revised Conservation District Commission for a term expiring on June 30, 2020. designed details requested by the Commission as part of its 2018 Certificate of Design •Appointment of Paul Wright as an alternate member of the South End Landmark Dis- Approval including: garage door details; new addition’s brick cladding; base planter details; trict Commission for a term expiring on June 30, 2021. fencing details; and landscape details. •Appointment of David Shepperd as a member of the South End Landmark District •HOW TO REPORT A PROBLEM PROPERTY Commission for a term expiring on June 30, 2022. Since taking office in 2014, Mayor Walsh has made fixing quality of life issues a priority •Appointment of Catherine Hunt as a member of the South End Landmark District in his administration. From investing in Public Works to making sure community policing Commission for a term expiring on June 30, 2022. is a staple in every neighborhood, we are making sure every neighborhood is clean, safe •Appointment of Fabian D’Souza as a member of the South End Landmark District and a great place to live and work in. Unfortunately some properties in Boston need more Commission for a term expiring on June 30, 2021. help than others, and that’s why we are here. If you know of a property that fits one of the following criteria: multiple calls to 911, one that’s blighted or just a general concern, (MOVED TO ONLINE ONLY) From the March 23, 1 p.m., CITY COUNCIL we encourage you to reach out to your neighborhood liaison. COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC HEALTH HEARING: Order for a hearing to evalu- PAGE 16 THE BOSTON SUN March 19, 2020

17 LOUISBURG SQUARE 5 BEDS | 3F 2H BATHS | 7,610 SQFT LOUISBURG SQUARE $18,500,000

128 BEACON STREET #A 81 BEACON STREET #PH 3 BEDS | 3.5 BATHS | 4,112 SQFT 3 BEDS | 4 BATHS | 3,300 SQFT $6,990,000 $8,450,000

380 BEACON STREET #2 20 CHESTNUT STREET #1 3 BEDS | 3.5 BATHS | 3,714 SQFT 4 BEDS | 3.5 BATHS | 3,640 SQFT $5,950,000 $7,995,000

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