MAY WWW.FENWAYNEWS.org 2011 FREE

serving the Fenway, Kenmore Square, upper Back Bay, Prudential, Longwood Area & Mission Hill since 1974 volume 37, number 5 APRIL 29-May 26, 2011

Seniors Making Noise, Onstage and Off Video series aims to show what : Lois Johnston O

Phot neighborhood means to residents Seniors Raise the Roof at Berklee Awards By Laura Newton he Fenway Community Development Corporation has kick-started a video initiative, “Fenway Stories: Voices from the Urban Village,” to provide insight into the lives of Fenway residents. T Callie Watkins, community planning associate at the CDC, set in motion the video project. The first video is set to debut May 3 at the group’s annual meeting. “The Fenway is a very activist community. I feel like the minute you come in here, you feel this energy,” Watkins said, noting that the neighborhood “is a diverse residential community, made up of different personalities and experiences.” The video project aims to increase participation and support from residents for the further development of the community. “There were a lot of misperceptions about the Fenway,” said Watkins, who has a master’s degree in city and regional planning from Cornell University. by stephen brophy Elderly Commission; the only Senior Center She said the neighborhood tends to be defined by cultural institutions such as the in the Fenway neighborhood; and a home erklee College of Music definitely Museum of Fine Arts and the Christian Science Church. Many people don’t realize the away from home for seniors in Boston. knows how to stage an awards extent of the neighborhood, which also encompasses 18 colleges and 10 major medical “We are asking neighbors, friends, ceremony. On April 16 it gathered institutions, Watkins said. relatives and local businesses to sponsor us faculty, students, administrators and The idea for the video project came about in late November. In cooperation with B as we walk, with any and all amounts. We are neighbors for a lively ceremony recognizing Fenway resident Sonia Weinhaus, who had previously worked producing documentaries also asking people to join us on the walk.” folks who have done extra-good work within for PBS’s “Nova” series, Watkins reached out to interview people from a demographic The following is a partial list of the school and out in the world. Fenwickians and geographic cross-section of the neighborhood Weinhaus and Watkins looked for businesses that have contributed support from the Peterborough Senior Center, in pho- people who were actively engaged in the community. for the Walk for the Peterborough Senior to, gave a rousing performance of La Bamba “Fortunately, there’s a whole lot of people who care,” Watkins said. Center: Wingate Management; Berklee and Twist and Shout. They have benefited Among the residents interviewed was Gloria Platt, who has lived in the Fenway College of Music; Fenway CDC; Bon-Bon; from weekly visits by students from Berklee’s since the 1960s. Her children, who have since started their own families, chose to J’s Tomodachi Sushi; Floyd’s Barbershop; Music Therapy Department, which received remain in the community; they too are featured in the video, Watkins said. Supreme Pizza; Whole Foods Market; an award for its work. The goal is to release a video a month on the CDC’s website. Each video is planned Trader Joe’s; Hemenway Variety; Milu’s Berklee is also a major sponsor of the to deal with one person. That might change, depending on whether a decision is made Hair Salon; Shaw’s Supermarket; Marshall’s Walk for the Senior Center scheduled for at the corporation’s annual meeting to orient the videos toward specific issues in the Farmer’s Market; Baseball Tavern; Operation May 5 (rain date May 6). Looking for ways community or the residents themselves, Watkins said. P.E.A.C.E.; Jersey Liquors; Hidyan Café; to increase the funding, members decided to Through the video project, Watkins aims to show what the Fenway means to its Trattoria Toscana; Thaitation Restaurant; organize a pledge walk. Berklee musicians residents and why they consider it their home. By engaging in a dialogue with those Salon 54; The Ramrod; Cappy’s Pizza; will serenade them along their way. The walk interviewed about memorable moments in the community and about how it has changed, Cappy’s Corner starts at noon at Jersey and Boylston streets she hopes to understand what they would like to see in the future. “I want to make sure I Boston Aurobindo Yoga Center; Rite- and will proceed east to Hemenway Street. give the community a voice,” Watkins said. Aid; Dorothy’s Boutique; College Pizza; Then the walkers will go on to Agassiz Road She said the videos are only part of a larger strategy to make the community’s Fenway ZPizza; Jerry Remy’s Sports Bar and return to the Center for a potluck lunch planning process more involved. and Grill; Bradley Liquors; Crossfit Fenway; and a gala concert called “Women of the “There’s people who have invested in what the Fenway is today. If we’re not putting Boston Cab Association; Amazing Video; World,” performed by Berklee voice students people at the center, we might risk pushing them away,” Watkins said. Rutman’s Violins; Symphony Mart; Oasis and alumnae. Laura Newton is an undergraduate student in the Northeastern University School Guest House; Subway Subs; King of Records; Penina Adelman, the Senior Center’s of Journalism. director, explains that “The purpose of the Canastero’s; Choice Liquors; Phillipo Style walk is twofold. One, we need more resources Hair Studio; Bombay Café; Pizza Pie-er; to be able to keep programming concerts, Woody’s Grill; Burtons Grill; Boston Fire trips, celebrations, art shows, classes in yoga, Department House Fund. PILOT Stunt Stings Some Big Fenway Names exercise, haiku, reiki and dance. We also need Many more individuals and businesses Looking for more revenue from tax-exempt institutions, the City of Boston last month funds for the daily costs of running the Center contributed, more than we could possibly reminded prominent nonprofits that it wants them to ante up for its Payment in Lieu of Taxes and paying staff. Two, we are walking to list. In many cases managers and staff of (PILOT) program. Sixteen of the institutions that received faux tax bills are in the Fenway, show the world who we are: ‘An Outstanding local businesses contributed out of their including the MFA, the BSO, Northeastern, and Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. Senior Service Center in the City of Boston, own pockets. A more complete list will be Collectively, they now pay about $6.1 million in PILOT donations (80% of that figure comes 2008,’ as named by the Mayor’s Office and the available at www.fenwaycdc.org. from BU). The City wants to see those payments nearly quadruple to $22 million.

Conservancy Throws Out A Big Welcome Mat With Visitor Center’s Grand Opening By Amanda Devaney decommissioned in the 1970s and appreciate nature by the Fens so that they can lead program. The Fenway Garden he Emerald Necklace as a result of vandalism and walking, running or biking along tours through the park. Society has scheduled a series Conservancy holds a general lack of interest, by the park trails. “I think this will be a of coordinated events in the grand opening April 30 establishing in its place the “It is a linear park system, jumping-off point for younger Victory Gardens and May 1 for its a new inaugural Visitor and Volunteer which means you can walk from people and everyone else in this “We have had a couple Visitor and Volunteer Center Center. the Back Bay Fens, through the community who hasn’t seen the little open houses, but this is a in the Back Bay Fens in hopes “It was a neglected Riverway, and all the way down parks to go out and explore and big one. We thought we would of bringing Boston together as area,” said Emily Muldoon, to Franklin Park,” Muldoon said. realize that there is this resource wait for the nice weather,” Knox a community in celebration of a communications and “It is all connected, and it is in their community, and they said. “It will begin with a ribbon nature in the city. public relations intern for something that a lot of people, should use it,” Muldoon said. cutting with Mayor Thomas “In cities, it is particularly the Conservancy. “I am a especially college students, do The conservancy’s grand- M. Menino and some local important to create naturalistic Northeastern student, and last not realize exists.” opening weekend will be a representatives and legislators environments to help people year I was living in Melvin Hall The Emerald Necklace combination of indoor and and people from the community. deal with their everyday [about a half block away] and I Conservancy has a number of outdoor events, including It is open for the public. stresses,” said Jeanine Knox, would always see this building events planned for the grand outdoor yoga, bike rides, fun “I want to see it really director of external affairs and have no idea what it was.” opening weekend A docent runs, film showings, walking well-loved and well-used and and spokeswoman for the Frederick Law Olmsted, training program will begin for tours, and kids’ activities, led by to be a destination as well as a conservancy. “We wanted a who designed Central Park and volunteers to learn more about members of a youth leadership starting-off point,” Knox said. place where all people from all other famous parks (and whose “As we face many environmental walks of life can come enjoy the birthday was just celebrated    challenges today, public parks outdoors.” on April 26), began working April 30 May 1 and urban parks become even The Conservancy on the Emerald Necklace park Following a ribbon-cutting by Mayor Menino at noon on Saturday, the more important because they opened the center in early system in 1878 to establish a conservancy visitor center will host free activities for two days, from fun provide trees; they are the lungs January. To accomplish that, more naturalistic environment in runs to walking tours to a kids’ activities table. View the full schedule at of the city.” the conservancy began by Boston. The park stretches from www.emeraldnecklace.org/visitorcentergrandopening/ And visit Amanda Devaney is an proposing to restore the the Back Bay to Dorchester, the Garden Society’s website to check on its schedule of related activities undergraduate student in the then-neglected Stony Brook giving Boston residents and Northeastern University School at www.fenwayVictorygarden.org Gatehouse, which was others an opportunity to respect of Journalism. 2 | FENWAY NEWS | MAY 2011 DCR Grant Will Fund Traffic Study to Support Duck House Effort By Ann Musheno from that study indicated that the traffic including lighting, the lack of wide sidewalks, s part of an effort to renovate the was primarily pedestrian. Mattison said the and the “tough shape” of the street’s historic Duck House in the Back working group thinks that “having more data infrastructure. Bay Fens and lease it to a business, from a different time of year is valuable.” Mattison said “a substantial amount of the Massachusetts Department Marco Baldassarre, a board member investment” will be needed to make necessary Fri., April 29 7:10 p.m. A of the Fenway Civic Association, said the improvements to the road. of Conservation and Recreation has agreed Sat., April 30 7:10 p.m. to pay $26,000 for a traffic feasibility study results of the study would help determine According to the Fenway Civic of Agassiz Road, the street along which the what type of business would be successful in Association’s website, restoring the Duck Sun., May 1 1:35 p.m. building sits. the Duck House. If the study showed mostly House and Agassiz Road will bring the Mon., May 2 7:10 p.m. The grant, provided by the Department’s pedestrian traffic, a café or a business geared building back to life, increase public safety, Partnerships Matching Funds Program, is toward quick stops by customers would likely build community, enhance the location, and Tues., May 3 7:10 p.m. double the amount of contributions from 18 succeed, he said. If the area was used by serve the needs of park users. The project is a Wed., May 4 7:10 p.m. more bicyclists, the location would be most complement to the Muddy River Restoration organizations, including many local colleges Thurs., May 5 1:35 p.m. and cultural institutions. Project, where the Army Corps of Erica Mattison, a Fenway Engineers will clean out and redirect Fri., May 6 7:10 p.m. resident, member of the Fenway the river, and beautify the surrounding Sat., May 7 1:10 p.m. Civic Association, and chair of landscape. the working group for the Duck The Fenway Alliance, a Sun., May 8 1:35 p.m. House restoration, said the study consortium of academic, cultural Mon., May 9 7:10 p.m. will include holding community and arts organizations in the Fenway meetings, collecting information and area, was one of the organizations that Mon., May 16 7:10 p.m. presenting findings in the form of a donated to the study. Tues., May 17 7:10 p.m. report. Kelly Brilliant, executive director Mattison said information of the Fenway Alliance, said the Wed., May 18 7:10 p.m. will be collected about the bicycle, Alliance and many of its member Thurs., May 19 7:10 p.m. pedestrian and automobile traffic on institutions donated to the study Agassiz Road. She said a consulting company suitable for “a bike shop or a bike rental shop because they “thought this was a wonderful Fri., May 20 7:10 p.m. will begin collecting the information in late or anything that’s geared toward recreation,” way to enliven the park, and a great idea that Sat., May 21 7:10 p.m, April or early May and that the study will he said. Erica’s group has gotten together.” continue until about July. Mattison said the working group was Ann Musheno is an undergraduate student Sun, May 22 8:05 p.m. A presentation on the Fenway Civic “not focused on attracting drivers,” because in the Northeastern University School of Mon., May 30 7:10 p.m. Association’s website details the findings parking is limited in the area. Journalism. Tues., May 31 7:10 p.m.. of a similar data collection, conducted by Baldassarre said the study would also volunteers in November 2009. The data focus on safety concerns of Agassiz Road, The First Church of Christ, Scientist Mass Ave Sunday Church Services & Sunday School 10 am and 5 pm (no evening service July & Aug.) Wednesday Testimony Meetings Lock Co. 12 noon and 7:30 pm (2 pm online) Hazardous Waste, 24-HOUR Sunday & Wednesday Live Services Online Tire And Propane Tank EMERGENCY SERVICE ChristianScience.com/OnAir Drop-off for Boston Residents BONDED LOCKSMITH 125 St. Botolph Street Phone 247-9779 • Fax 536-8709 Police Locks • Doors Opened Saturday, May 7 9:00am to 2:00pm Mailbox Keys • Master Keys Systems • Padlocks UMass Parking Lot, Morrissey Blvd Near the corner of Huntington & Mass. Ave. Free Parking at all services. Door Closers T Hynes, Prudential, Symphony, or Mass. Ave. Keys Made by Code For further information, call 617.450.3790 Saturday, June 25 9:00am to 2:00pm or visit www.ChristianScience.com Public Works Yard , 315 Gardner St, West Roxbury Residents may bring up to 50 pounds of products labeled toxic, ammable, reactive, corrosive, or poisonous; such as: paint, motor oil, pesticides, solvents, glues, bleach or ammonia-based cleaners, weed killers, photo chemicals, pool chemicals, car batteries, and used motor oil. NO COMPUTERS, MONITORS, TVs, OR ELECTRONICS NO COMMERCIAL WASTE ACCEPTED The City reserves the right to reject materials PROOF OF RESIDENCY REQUIRED

Boston Public Works Department Thomas M. Menino, Mayor; Joanne P. Massaro, Commissioner For more information, please call 617-635-4500 or visit www.cityofboston.gov/recycling

Congratulations to the student-athletes of The South End Little League on the opening of another great season! Have fun!

Northeastern University Office of City & Community Affairs, proud sponsor of South End Little League FENWAY NEWS | MAY 2011 | 3

Historic Ruggles Baptist Hopes to Raise $500,000 Erin Kelley is an undergraduate student in the Northeastern University School of By Erin Kelley Showalter hopes that after the renovations, “People come and go; usually the average Journalism. Ruggles Baptist Church is at he Ruggles Baptist Church in Audubon more churches can use the extra space. person here is two to five years. So, we call it 874 Beacon St. in Audubon Circle. Worship Circle plans to launch a $500,000 Showalter receives several calls each month a network church rather than a neighborhood services are at 10 a.m. Sundays. Tcapital fund-raising campaign to from small church groups hoping to use rooms church,” Showalter said. continue renovations the church began in for worship services, because renting function 2008, originally landing the church on the rooms elsewhere can become costly. National Register of Historic Places in 2010. The building is home to other For Spring Break, These Kids Went to...Boot Camp?? In his quaint office located in the back churches, including a Chinese and an of the church, the Rev. Larry Showalter Anglican congregation. Spiritual, dance, By Nate Leskovic explained that after an evaluation for and community-based groups use rooms as nactivity is a proven factor in chronic health problems, so instead of taking renovations by the Boston architecture firm well.“ That is part of our ministry, that is part it easy during April vacation, Sociedad Latina’s youth Health Educators kept

h active by hosting their first annual Youth Fitness Boot Camp at the Tobin Menders, Torrey c of what this building is here & Spencer in for, for that purpose to build ICommunity Center. The free, week-long event from April 19-22, part of Health Educators’ Healthy

2008, architectural tist Chur other churches than my own,” p preservationists a Showalter said. The history of Mission Hill Initiative to improve the wellbeing of the community, was attended es B suggested that l the building dates to 1914, when by more than 60 youth ages 10-21. It included fitness activities, health-focused the church apply ugg the church housed a Unitarian workshops, and life-skills trainings aimed at reversing negative health trends in for listing on the congregation. the city. One-third of Boston’s high school students are now overweight or obese, National Register. Well-known historical according to the 2010 Health of Boston report. “They rovided by R figures, including the Mather “Sociedad is the way I make a difference in the community,” says Health family, belonged to the Educator Taydavia Martinez. “A lot of people don’t know about living healthy. recommended that Photo p we apply for this original Ruggles church. We’re showing them the facts, and that it’s not that big of a deal.” because it will lead Three generations of Mather c With partners such as the Whittier to other resources for other renovations, so we men—Samuel, Increase and Cotton—were Street Health Clinic, Health Resources in Action, Renewal House, and Girls’ LEAP, agreed to that, and they did a wonderful job American theologians, famous for their ate Leskovi for us,” Showalter said. ministry, writings and involvement in the Health Educators offered activities such Salem witch hysteria. as kickboxing, yoga, girls self defense, The National Register process took hoto by N an architectural preservationist from the In 1970, Ruggles Baptist Church bought p and Zumba, and workshops on HIV/AIDS, Menders, Torrey & Spencer staff about a the building and moved into it. “They moved nutrition, healthy relationships, and body year to complete and submit for approval, from a church on Ruggles Street in Roxbury image. Showalter said. because of a variety of reasons … the “Boston’s communities of color live in “There [was] a large amount of research neighborhood was changing, generally some the shadow of some of the nation’s most that had to be done on the history of the good things and some not so good things,” prestigious medical institutions, yet they building and the architectural aspects,” Showalter explained. continue to suffer from disproportionate Showalter said. “We knew that the building Neighborhood construction and growing rates of obesity, diabetes, and heart disease,” says Health Educators Coordinator had the history and the architecture; there was violence became factors in the congregation’s Tatianna Montañez. “These health inequities—unnecessary, avoidable, unjust, and no doubt about that.” decision to uproot and move to Audubon unfair—are often due to racism, socio-economic conditions, and barriers to health The capital fund-raising campaign, Circle. care options. And due to low education and income, our community members are which was recently announced to the With 63 members, the present- easily caught in a cycle of poor diet and lifestyle choices. This Boot Camp is an congregation, is still in the first stages of day Ruggles Baptist Church is stitched effort to turn that around.” planning. It is expected to begin this spring, together through relationships. Because Sociedad Latina’s Health Educators in Action program tackles health and run until 2014, the 100th anniversary the congregation is small, many members inequities, intervening before it is too late and direct healthcare services are of the church. The church hopes to raise meet outside church on a weekly basis needed. The youth development organization hires 15 young residents each $500,000. in small groups. Surrounded by Boston year to identify health issues linked to racial health inequities, research causes “The purpose is to expand the capacity of University housing and the MBTA Green and solutions, and take their knowledge back into the community and work for the church building because there are places Line, the church is located in an area with positive change. that are not usable,” Showalter said. high turnover, sometimes causing those Nate Leskovic is on the staff of Sociedad Latina. The basement needs the most work. relationships to be short-lived.

BOSTON RESIDENTS Quality eye care + stylish eye wear Leaf & Yard Waste Make an appointment or stop in to shop for eye wear today! 4-Week Collection Boston Public Works will collect and compost residents’ yard waste

Four weeks: April 25 - May 20 ON YOUR RECYCLING DAY.

Place leaves in large paper leaf bags or open Need an eye exam or new glasses? Fenway Health has you covered. Our eye care barrels marked “yard waste.” staff provide the highest quality eye care for our patients in a comfortable, caring, For free “yard waste” stickers, call 617-635-4500 and compassionate environment. And our optical shop carries the latest styles from (up to 2 stickers available per household). Calvin Klein, Sean John, L.A. Looks and more to keep you looking, and seeing, great. Cut branches to 3’ maximum length and 1” maximum diameter. for a valuable coupon visit fenwayhealth.org/eyes Tie branches with string. fenway eye care 1340 Boylston Street, 6th Floor Boston MA 02215 tel 617.927.6190 web fenwayhealth.org COM.11.010 Place leaves and yard waste at the curb by 7:00 AM ON YOUR RECYCLING DAY. azine 2008 NO PLASTIC BAGS n Mag Bosto ston Yard waste will not be collected est of Bo during the two weeks before B the April 25 start date. VE BAR Please hold onto DI your yard waste from April 11 to April 25, when collection begins. Thanks—Tony

Thomas M. Menino, Mayor 4 | FENWAY NEWS | MAY 2011

Serving the Fenway, Kenmore Square, Audubon Circle, upper Back Bay, lower Roxbury, Prudential, Mission Hill, and Longwood since 1974

Fenway News Association Board of Directors Three-Night Sampling Shows Arts Are Thriving in the Fenway Steve Chase • Helen Cox • Tracey Cusick • Joyce by Stephen Brophy Foster, president • Steven Harnish • Barbara the play, but she made the transformation both subtle and effective. Brooks Simons • Steve Wolf, treasurer few weeks ago I went to three cultural events in the Moving on from high school to college, the Boston Conservato- Fenway on three evenings. I came away from the ry’s musical comedy was pure delight. The new stage in the renovat- Editor: Stephen Brophy experience marveling at what an incubator for talent our ed Hemenway St. building gave the cast and crew many more options WEB EDITOR: Nicole Aubourg neighborhood is. On a Thursday I went to the Boston than were available to the BAA students, or even to Conservatory Production Designer: Steve Wolf

A students a couple of years ago. Using these resources the director, Writers: Penina Adelman, Daniel Alfaro, Conservatory’s production of Gilbert and Sullivan’s Mikado. The Alison Barnet, Susie Blair, next evening I attended a Handel and Haydn choral concert in the Kirsten Z. Cairns, emphasized color in costumes, decor, and lighting, Liz Burg, Bob Case, Helen Cox, Tracey Cusick, Amanda newly renovated St. and gave us a visual experience as pleasing Devaney, Dharmena Downey, Lisa Fay, Cecilia’s Church. Then as an Easter egg basket. Lori A. Frankian, Joyce Foster, Andrew on Saturday evening I She had two complete casts to work

ass Frederick, Marie Fukuda, Galen Gilbert, watched a presentation l with, and those who performed on the night Elizabeth Gillis, Katherine Greenough, at the Boston Arts I attended certainly set a high bar for the Sam Harnish, Erin Harper, Sarah Horsley, Academy (BAA) of other group to jump over. Their mastery Matthw Juul, Rosie Kamal, Erin Kelly, George Bernard Shaw’s of the patter provided by the lyricist would Shirley Kressel, Erica Mattison, Kristen hoto: Max Wagenb

St. Joan. p satisfy the sternest G&S fan, and their McCleary, Ann Musheno, Laura Newton, Taking the last ability to stick with the choreography while Richard Pendleton, Camille Platt, Karla first, I was, as always, delivering it was at a professional level. Rideout, Mike Ross, Barbara Brooks Simons, Matti Kniva Spencer, Anne Tobin, impressed with how well The orchestra, conducted by Beatrice Jona Steve Tolman, Fredericka Veikley, Chris the high school students Affron, held up its end quite well, and the Viveiros, Clyde Whalen, Margaret Witham and their teachers make whole evening went by much too quickly. PhotographerS: Aaron Barrera, Lois use of the comparatively Harry Christophers, the artistic Johnston, Patrick O’Connor, Valarie limited resources at their director of the Handel and Haydn Society, Seabrook, Matti Kniva Spencer, Ginny Such disposal to create theat- got his start as a choirboy in England. He CALENDAR: Penina Adelman, Helen Cox, rical magic. The small L-R: Stephanie Scarcella, (Pitti-Sing), Jacquelyn Viña (Yum- put together a stirring collection of sacred Ruth Khowais, Steve Wolf, theater on the top floor Yum), Sarah Shechtman (Peep-Bo) charm their audience. music written by Tomás Luis de Victoria Proofreader: Tracey Cusick

in the late 16th and early 17th centuries, Subscription Coordinator: of the school has a rather ramshackle appearance as you walk in, and the staging obviously coupled with 20th-century work by Francis Poulenc in a program Cathy Jacobowitz BOOKKEEPER: Cathy Jacobowitz didn’t involve lots of dollars—but you forget all that when the lights called “Harry’s Vocal Voyage.” Distribution: Nicole Auberg, Della go down and the play commences. For St. Joan the students created a The concert would have been quite wonderful in Symphony Gelzer, Aqilla Manna, Lauren Dewey Platt, theater-in-the-round experience, constantly changing the orientation Hall or Jordan Hall, but it made maximum use of the special setting Reggie Wynn of the stage as each new scene, but so deftly that the audience was provided by the beautifully remodelled space in St. Cecilia’s. never confused. Christophers’ juxtaposition of the Renaissance stylings of Victoria The Fenway News is published monthly by the The most impressive element is the acting of the students. with the sometimes harsh modernist sounds of Poulenc helped his Fenway News Association, Inc., a community- owned corporation dedicated to community Their teacher chose this play to emphasize how audience to pay closer attention to journalism. If you would like to volunteer to anyone can, and should, stand up for what they from the editor the beauties of each style. write, edit, photograph, lay out, distribute, or sell believe, especially when they are opposed. Leah Perhaps some of the members advertising on commission, please contact us at: Ogawa embodied this quite nicely in her portrayal of Joan, and those of his chorus also gained their educations at one of the schools in the The Fenway News, actors who played her persecutors definitely gave her something Fenway. The experience of these three evenings underscores just how PO Box 230277, Astor Station to fight against. One actor in a minor role who stood out for me is special our neighborhood really is. People travel from all over the Boston, MA 02123 617-266-8790 Yoshiko Shepherd, who played a page. Her “master” was a difficult, metropolitan region to attend events here, and students come from all [email protected] demanding person, not as smart as her character. She was at first over the world to prepare themselves for professional careers in the www.fenwaynews.org subservient but gradually got more forceful in telling him what he arts. We can only count our blessings that we have so much beauty needed to know. This occupied just a few minutes at the beginning of available to us, and all within walking distance. Subscriptions $24/year ($15 for limited income) ©2010 Fenway News Association, Inc. “Comforting the afflicted and Every dollar raised, every hour Today in Massachusetts, 660,000 people those in need. Consider walking, donating, afflicting the comfortable.” donated helps the Walk for Hunger do not have enough to eat. It’s a large number organizing a Walk Team, or becoming a in a year of very large numbers. Programs volunteer. It’s the year to do something, The founders of The Fenway News adopted this To the Editor: motto to express their mission of exposing and On Sunday, May 1, Project Bread will like ours serve the most desperate who need anything—because every dollar, every mile, opposing the dangers the neighborhood faced celebrate the 2011 Walk for Hunger, begin- help right now. At the ABCD Parker Hill / every volunteer hour donated will help. And in the early 1970s—including rampant arson, ning and ending at the Boston Common. Fenway Food Pantry many people seeking the money from The Walk for Hunger stays unscrupulous landlords, and a destructive As the economy is slowly recovering, there food assistance are working; their wages are in our own community and state. urban renewal plan. If the original motto no are still many families struggling to put just too low to cover all of their housing and All the information and helpful tools longer fits today’s Fenway, we continue food on their table. This year’s Walk is very food expenses. Many families are forced you’ll need are at www.projectbread.org, or to honor its spirit of identifying problems to make hard choices between buying food call Project Bread at 617-723-5000. If you and making our neighborhood a better important for the many Massachusetts fami- and safer place to live. lies who are seeing their monthly income or paying their rent or utility bills. This can’t be there this year, support someone stretched beyond capacity. program allows them the opportunity to not who can or be part of the “virtual walk” As Director of ABCD have to choose with a donation. I urge you to help us at between basic ABCD Parker Hill / Fenway to stand up for > Frequency < Parker Hill/ Fenway Neigh- letters The Fenway News reaches the stands every borhood Service Center, I witness the human necessities. As one another and provide for the most basic the crisis continues, and more and more human need—food. 4-5 weeks, usually on the first cost of this crisis every day—families who or last Friday of the month. Our next issue families turn to us for assistance, we will Sincerely, are newly unemployed, children eating two will be appear on Friday, May 27. have to cut back on the help we can give. Milagros Arbaje-Thomas, MSW, LCSW meals a day, seniors giving up food for medi- > Deadline < And yet, we feel strongly that hunger is Director, ABCD Parker Hill / Fenway cine. I urge all Boston residents to take part The deadline for letters, news items, and ads something no one should have to face alone. Neighborhood Service Center in this important event that helps families is Friday, May 20 It’s a pretty straightforward equation: [email protected] right here in our city who struggle to put food > Advertising < the funding from The Walk for Hunger on the table. Contact our business manager at enables us to provide nourishing food to [email protected]

Fenway News Association Sets Annual Meeting for June 19, 2011 he Fenway News Association will hold its 2011 annual meeting MEMBERSHIP OF THE ASSOCIATION AT PUBLICATION DATE: Penina Adelman, Daniel Alfaro, Iory Allison, Delia on Sunday, June 19, in the Fensgate Community Room at 73 Alvarez, Arlene Ash, Nicole Auberg, Mwagale Babumba, Jonathan Ball, Alison Barnet, Aaron Barrera, Richard Hemenway St. The meeting will begin at 6:30 p.m. Elections to Barry, Susie Blair, Sarah E. Blanchette, Stephen Brophy, Chelsea Brown, Liz Burg, Bob Case, Steve Chase, Brian the board of directors and votes on proposed amendments to the Clague, Lara M. Cole, Suzanne Comtois, Lauren Constantino, Helen Cox, Eleanor Cummings, Tracey Cusick, bylaws and articles of incorporation, if any, will be held. Amanda Devaney, Bennie diNardo, Dharmena Downey, Richard Dunshee, Johnette Ellis, Lisa Fay, Laura Finaldi, T Mary Finn, Tom Fitzgerald, Peter Flannery, Nikki Flionis, Courtney Flynn, Michael Foley, Joyce Foster, Lori Any resident of the neighborhoods that we serve may join and vote on Frankian, Andrew Frederick, Marie Fukuda, Slim Gelzer, Galen Gilbert, Elizabeth Gillis, Brett Greene, Kathy June 19 by mailing a notice expressing an interest in joining to: Fenway Greenough, Phyllis Hanes, Sam Harnish, Steven Harnish, Erin Harper, Duke Hartin, Mary Ellen Hendrickson, Tim News Association, Inc., P.O. Box 230277, Astor Station, Boston, MA Horn, Sarah Horsley, Jackie Iskyan, Tito Jackson, Cathy Jacobowitz, Lois Johnston, Matthew Juul, Rosie Kamal, 02123. Anyone can also send an e-mail notice of interest to editor@ Sajed Kamal, Kyle Katz, John Kelly, Joseph Kenyon, Ruth Khowais, Rudy Kikel, Jonathan Kim, Shirley Kressel, fenwaynews.org. We must receive such notices by Sunday, June 5, to Marc Laderman, Lauren Landry, Nasreen Latif, Nate Lescovic, Barbara Loo, Gil Loo, Aqilla Manna, Don Mathieu, comply with our bylaws, which require members to join at least 14 days Erica Mattison, Kristen McCleary, Joan McGaw, Kerry Mooney, Joan Murphy, Ann Musheno, Kat Nicholson, Laura prior to the meeting date if they wish to vote. A list of current members Newton, Patrick O’Connor, Richard Orareo, Catherine Pedemonti, Richard Pendleton, Jana Peretz, Camille Platt, appears at right. Gloria Platt, Lauren Dewey Platt, Alison Pultinas, Michelle Reinstein, Bill Richardson, Karla Rideout, Mike Ross, For information about the meeting or the Fenway News Association, Rosaria Salerno, Valerie Sarnataro, Valarie Seabrook, Helaine Simmonds, Barbara Brooks Simons, Matti Kniva please call the Fenway News office, 617-266-8790, or e-mail editor@ Spencer, Ginny Such, Mat Thall, Eric Tingdahl, Ann Tobin, Theresa Tobin, Steven Tolman, Bob Tomposki, Chuck fenwaynews.org. Turner, Fredericka Veikley, Chris Viveiros, Clyde Whalen, Margaret Witham, Steve Wolf FENWAY NEWS | MAY 2011 | 5

Kargmans chose not to take any steps to Clarifying Some Finer Points of the Kargman Story keep the apartments affordable after that by Sarah Horsley cated to equity and diversity, Fenway CDC owner. Burbank is owned by a company date. At the same time that the mortgage he recent Fenway News article, also applauds The Fenway News for empha- named Burbank Apartments Company. (The expired, the Kargmans also voluntarily “Tenants, Backers Crowd Council sizing the disparate impact of the loss on Kargmans are involved in the ownership of opted out of the project-based Section 8 Hearing” (April 2011) provided a people of color, seniors, families and people both companies.) program. This program provided further compelling picture of our efforts. with disabilities. Second, the project-based Section 8 T In the interest of providing the most contract did not help the Kargmans purchase subsidies to make 40% of the apartments Coverage of the devastating and widespread at Burbank available to very-low and low- effect of the owners’ actions—98% of af- accurate information to your readers, I also Burbank Apartments. Instead, HUD offered income tenants. The ending of the mortgage fordable apartments in Boston lost in the last offer some corrections. First, First Realty financing through the Below-Market Interest and the owners’ decision to opt out of five years are owned by the Kargmans—was Management provides management services Rate (BMIR) 221d(3) mortgage program. project-based Section 8 have resulted in the especially valuable. As an organization dedi- for Burbank Apartments but is not the The mortgage expired on April 1 and the loss of all 173 affordable apartments. Third, enhanced vouchers (EVs) are provided by HUD, not by the Kargmans. HUD started providing EVs in the mid- The New District 7 Councilor Introduces Himself 1990s in an effort to protect tenants who Dear Friends, professions allowed me to develop strong backgrounds. Students, working families, were losing their homes when owners represent District 7 on the Boston City relationships with organizations across the young professionals, and many others enjoy converted to market-rate. Through another Council. This area encompasses parts of state and the country. These relationships that vibrancy. However, as First Realty program, called Mark-up-to Market, HUD the Fenway, the South End, are assets that must be utilized Management decides to leave the HUD’s offered to pay the Kargmans market-rate Dorchester, Jamaica Plain to get the people of District 7 Section 8 program, so does diversity in I back to work with good, stable, the Fenway. Affordable apartments give rents in exchange for keeping long-term and all of Roxbury. I reside in my affordability. They refused. childhood home in Grove Hall. well-paying jobs. Encouraging hope to people who need it, and they create But BATA and Fenway CDC continue These neighborhoods I represent entrepreneurship in District 7 communities where people of different the fight to keep Fenway affordable! With are prepared for robust economic will lead to economic growth for backgrounds develop common purposes the help of Greater Boston Legal Services, revival, educational enhance- the neighborhoods and thus for and interests. That’s the Boston to which we we have filed a lawsuit and will explore ment, residential stability, and the City of Boston. Success in should aspire. legislative approaches. increased public safety. areas like the Fenway and Dudley Warmly, Sarah Horsley is the Civic Engagement I possess ample experience Square is irrevocably tied to the Tito Jackson Director of the Fenway CDC. across a range of subjects as Tito success of Boston. I am prepared a result of my work in the and committed to working with healthcare and marketing Jackson Mayor Thomas Menino and industries, and my time in state The Fenway my fellow Councillors to make government. I was most recently News has invited Boston better. the political director on Governor elected officials As many of you know, Deval Patrick’s successful re- who represent the the pending loss of affordable election campaign. Before that, neighborhood to housing in the Fenway will n August 3 of this year I will be 92 guy says, “You work the curtain”. I worked in the Governor’s contribute columns have a resounding impact on years old and looking forward to Last week was my birthday and administration to bring 2,500 on issues of the neighborhood and the entire one hundred. Over 40 years ago I somebody sent me a gift through the mail. valuable technology jobs to concern. These will city. Apartment complexes submitted a test to The Hollywood I heard it ticking and I thought it was a Massachusetts. I am proud of my like the Burbank Apartments O appear on a regular School of Comedy Writing, and thought you bomb, so I stuck it in a pail of water. Know work with Governor Patrick and basis in FensViews. transformed the Fens into the might get a snicker out of some of my jokes. anybody who wants to buy a cuckoo clock look forward to achieving similar diverse and exciting community The director, Ron Carver, sent me a great that gargles? successes as a Boston City Councillor. that it is today filled with people of all letter and graded my work and thought I was The doctor was so expensive that when My work in the marketing and health different ethnicities, professions and quite talented, and my friend he took your temperature, he Mary found this and we got a charged you whatever it registered. good laugh at some of the jokes. I was in the third grade so street Cleaning times So here are a few. long, my teacher’s father demanded The commercial was so to know my intentions. The city cleans Fenway residential long that Speedy Alka Seltzer The dog was so friendly, streets between 12 and 4 p.m. on had slowed down to a walk. he married a cat just to give her the first and third Wednesdays of the Noted writer Charles Lamb kittens a name. month (odd-numbered side) and the had a habit of coming in late The air in the country is so second and fourth Wednesdays (even- to the office. One day his boss fresh, in order to get a good night’s numbered sides). Get more info at called him on it. “I noticed sleep, you have to bring an electric 617-635-4900 or www.cityofboston. you’re late every morning!” fan and your own bag of dust. gov/publicworks/sweeping. The state Lamb said, “I know, but I make I saw an ant struggling with a cleans streets that border the Fens on up for it by going home early.” large twig and was about to help, this schedule: West Fens resident A little girl arrived at Clyde Whalen gives but it dawned on me that if I did, he • Second Thursday kindergarten all out of breath “The Fenway Report” might become dependent on me. So Roof Deck The Riverway, 8:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. with excitement. “Why, what’s every other week rather than saddle myself with that •KENO •Second Friday the matter?” asked her teacher. on cable channel responsibility, I stepped on him. The Fenway (includes inside lane), “We’ve got a new baby at our 9’s Neighborhood Over the entrance to the used- Now Open Charlesgate Extension, and Forsyth house,” she replied. “Won’t you Network News. car lot, the dealer had his coat-of- •ESPN Game Plan Way, 8:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. come and see it?” “Oh, thanks!” arms. Crossed fingers against a Memorial Day •Second Friday said the teacher, “but I think I’d better wait field of stacked bibles. 8 to 54 The Fenway (includes inside until your mother is better.” “It’s all right,” Here’s one I threw in: The Alzheimer’s •Draftto Labor Specials Day! lane), Charlesgate Extension, 12:00– said the girl. “You don’t have to be careful— Annual get together was called off for the 3:00 p.m. it’s not catching!” 25th year, because nobody showed up. •Great seafood •Third Tuesday A couple of out-of-work comics were Well, the closest many of us may ever Swing on in for >Park Drive (includes inside lane), discussing ways to land a job. One guy sez, get to college is right on Queensberry Street and steak tips upper Boylston Street, 8:00 a.m.– “Hey, let’s team up!” The other says, “What at College Pizza. lunch & enjoy Tavern 12:00 p.m. kind of act do you have in mind?” He says, Science came up with Medicine, which >Park Drive, from Holy Trinity “Well, for openers I’ll come out and sing a corrected many illnesses and people began to •favoritesBuzzTime including Orthodox Cathedral to Kilmarnock half dozen songs. Then, the curtain comes live longer. Medicine may soon allow man to interactivehot dogs for only Street and from the Riverside down and goes up and I do a fast tap routine, live forever by simply taking a couple of shots Line overpass to Beacon Street, the curtain goes down and up and I go into a every hundred years or so to be returned to an $1.50television during Red 12:00–3:00 p.m. juggling act, some tightrope walking and a age of your own choosing, mine being 32. Sox Away Games! www.mass.gov/dcr/sweep.htm has a little unicycle bit, and the curtain goes down Well bless your hearts and all your other complete schedule and maps. and up.” The other guy says, “Hold it right vital organs. See you next month. there! Where do I come in?” and the other

1270 Boylston Street Boston, MA 02215 617.867.6526 Plumbers! Do you run a business in the Fenway, Audubon Circle, or Mission Hill? Turn neighbors into clients Visit us online at: with a business card ad in The Fenway News. Thousands of readers will see it each month— including your next new clients. heBaseballT T avern.com Email [email protected] for more info. 6 | FENWAY NEWS | MAY 2011

With Launch of New Program Berklee Brings Banjo Stars to Boston By Andrew Frederick American Roots Music Program, said he A program brought Pho t hree of the country’s most thinks that, for the program’s duration, three banjo masters Farn Phil o by innovative and technically proficient students will be able to gain more experience to Berklee to work superstars of banjo visited Berklee than in a traditional residency course. with twelve banjo

College of Music in March and “This program provides a real-world students. Here, Tony s wor T learning experience with much less structure Trischka, left, works April, marking the beginning of Berklee’s t new Banjo Masters Residency Program. than the typical music residency,” Glaser said with student Lukas h. The program, made possible through in a press release from Nick Balkin, Berklee’s Pool. an anonymous $90,000 gift to the school publicist. “Students will have time to hang and sponsored by Berklee’s American out, one-on-one, with the masters of their Roots Music Program, grants 12 Berklee craft and absorb new skills and ideas.” students the opportunity to work with several Each of the three banjoists visited April 5 and 6. established professional banjoists periodically for a period of two days, staggered during Pikelny is the during the next three years. The first three March and early April. They taught from recipient of the 2010 special guests, Tony Trischka, Noam Pikelny, early morning to late evening, working with Steve Martin Prize for and Béla Fleck, visited Berklee’s campus to the banjo students in groups and individual excellence in banjo and give those students, all of whom study banjo sessions or offering criticism to the various bluegrass and a member of the genre-defying have to learn this too.” as their principal instrument, both group and student groups that performed for them. bluegrass band Punch Brothers. Pikelny said Berklee freshman Christine Laskowski, private lessons. Trischka visited Berklee March 2 and 3, that, for the most part, he was impressed with a banjo student who worked with all three Matt Glaser, artistic director of the Pikelny on March 28 and 29, and Fleck on the musicianship of the students he worked guests, said that overall the attitude of the with and complimented the kind of intensive banjo students toward the opportunity is still peer-to-peer instruction afforded by the one of disbelief. program. “We’re all really floored by it,” “I’m a big fan of banjo players furthering Laskowski said. “It’s too good to be true.” ‘Aladdin’ Rubs Our Critic the Right Way themselves on their instrument and subjecting Trischka, named “one of the most by Alison Barnet themselves to the same kind of rigorous impressive banjo players alive,” by Billboard loved it,” said a little girl training as, say, a conservatory or a classical Magazine, is best known for his solo sitting in front of us, “except school,” Pikelny said. career and work with the bands Skyline for the scary parts.” Scary For many of the banjo students who and Psychograss, as well as his regular parts? Nothing seemed that worked with Trishka, Pikelny and Fleck, the appearances on the radio show “A Prairie I program provided an opportunity to meet and Home Companion.” Fleck, the versatile 11- scary to us, but that’s the wonder of children’s theatre. Maybe it was learn from some of their musical idols. time Grammy Award winner best known for all that popping in and out of holes Kyle Tuttle, a sophomore music his work with the bands New Grass Revival in the stage, including an echoing performance major with banjo as his principal and Béla Fleck and the Flecktones, has also genie, or the golden swing instrument, said Fleck was in some ways his been featured by numerous modern artists, descending from above. Luckily, inspiration for studying at Berklee. including Chick Corea, Dave Matthews Band kids, their attention on the play, “I basically started studying jazz because and Phish. didn’t seem to notice when the of Béla,” Tuttle, 24, said. “I learned that that’s Andrew Frederick is an undergraduate “wonderful lamp” itself slid what he was studying and influenced by, so I student in the Northeastern University off the stage into the audience. thought that if I wanted to sound like him, I’d School of Journalism. Rubbed by the wrong hands, that would have been scary! Aladdin and the Wonderful Lamp is entertaining, fun, and From Jazz to Japanese Relief, Three Discs full of special effects. All the Boast a ‘Made in the Fenway’ Flavor basics of the folklore of the exotic Mideast—a flying carpet, a magic by Stephen Brophy Many of the artists plan to perform the ring, genies, poison powder, and hree CDs have been produced songs featured on the release in Boston-area an evil magician—are present, in the Fenway in recent weeks shows to promote the album and raise money and there’s lots of action in the worthy of attention. Two of for the charity. aisles. The set is exceptionally them are from Berklee people, Berklee’s student-run Jazz Revelation colorful, with a beautiful pink/ and the other is the second record of Persian Records (JRR) has released an album called orange glow as a backdrop, blue in Act II. The costumes, creative variations on Middle-Eastern Blue, a jazz band fronted by East Fenway Octave (because it is the label’s eighth garb, are the work of Melissa Miller, who was honored before the show began for her thirty property manager Shah Hadjebi. release). The album is loaded with great years of designing and building costumes at the Wheelock Family In response to the earthquake and music, showcasing some of Berklee’s top Ttsunami in Japan, students, faculty, and staff jazz players from around the world. The “Aladdin and the Theatre. Wonderful Lamp” Aladdin is Sebastian Kim, an 8th grader at Buckingham, Browne from Berklee College of Music have JRR team is responsible for choosing the plays until May 15. and Nichols. He transitions quite nicely from tailor’s son to prince. donated 46 original songs artists; producing, engineering, Tickets are $20, $25 In addition to his acting credits, he’s done a number of commercials. for a compilation titled and promoting the and $30. Free and Samantha Boucher, a sophomore at Newton South High School, plays Love Conquers All: Music album; and designing discounted tickets, Princess Badroulbadour—lucky for us, her father, the tyrannical for Japan to help raise its artwork. In addition as well as birthday Sultan, has dubbed her Adora. Aladdin and Adora are mismatched in money for disaster relief. to the annual CD and packages, are height but still a nice couple. As usual with WFT, there are some very The digital album is concert, JRR produces available. 617-879- young actors; they are among the Slaves of the Lamp, Slaves of the available for immediate shows at the all-ages 2300 or tickets@ Ring, and the Citizens. download on www. Cafe 939 on Boylston wheelock.edu. Larry Coen, the evil magician, steals the show. His facial musicforjapan.org for Street and at the Berklee Wheelock Family expressions and the strange sounds that come out of his mouth a donation of $10 or library. For a free Theatre, 200 The amuse the audience no end, and his collapse after drinking tainted more, with 100% of the download, go to http:// Riverway. wine is spectacular. Coen is well known for his work with several proceeds going to Save jrrecords.bandcamp.com/ Boston theatre companies, including Ryan Landry’s Gold Dust the Children’s relief Shah Hadjebi will Orphans. Interestingly, Wheelock and Gold Dust now have a working efforts in Japan. It is celebrate the release of his relationship; director/set designer James P. Bryne, technical director Matthew T. Lazure, and also available as a $20 bundle with a limited- new album, Departure, others are part of that other Fenway theatre company known for drag of a different stripe. edition t-shirt. with a party at Johnny D’s in Somerville’s With Wheelock, it’s never just about the play but the whole phenomenon: a room full of The album was released on April 14, just Davis Square. Hadjebi calls the music “warm, young children who are quieter and more attentive than many an adult audience. My friend 34 days after the double disaster in Japan. sophisticated jazz that speaks about the joys Kim was impressed with how well the theatre manages the experience, making helpful Berklee student Julian Weisser conceived the peace allows, while acknowledging the awful announcements about parking and doing a remarkably efficient job of getting everyone back compilation and recruited Dean Davis and silences of war.” The release party runs from into the theatre after intermission—on time! Ethan Schiff to help spread the word about 7-9 p.m. on May 14; see our calendar listing Alison Barnet lives in the South End. song submissions. for more details. Therapists! Are you self-employed? Turn your neighbors into clients with a business card ad in The Fenway News. Thousands of readers will see it each month—and you could find yourself some new clients. Email advertise@fenwaynews. org for more info. FENWAY NEWS | MAY 2011 | 7

Thu, May 12: In “How Americans Learned to Sat, May 14: The Longwood Symphony Or- Mass. Historical Society on “Founding Gar- Shop: John Singleton Copley and the New chestra, whose players are primarily medical deners: How the Revolutionary Generation to Judy Garland). Tickets for opening night American Consumer” Katie Pfohl traces professionals, presents a concert in Jordan Created an American Eden.” This lecture range from $40 to $121; visit www.boston- the relationship between John Singleton Hall. As usual the proceeds will benefit a offers a look at the revolutionary generation pops.org, call 888-266-1200, or buy at the Copley’s portraits and what has been called local organization, this time the Asian Task from the unique and intimate perspective box office at 301 Massachusetts Avenue. the consumer revolution of the mid-to-late Force Against Domestic Violence. Program of their lives as gardeners, plantsmen and farmers. For the founding fathers, garden- Wed, May 11: 18th century in the US. An unprecedented includes Shostakovich’s Piano Concerto Stephen Puleo, a history pro- escalation in wealth from trade, land No. 2 (Charlie Albright, the soloist, will ap- ing, agriculture and botany were elemental fessor at Suffolk University and author of speculation, and new forms of production pear with the Boston Pops a few days later), passions, as deeply ingrained in their char- Dark Tide: the Great Boston Molasses Flood created a new kind of American with the Elgar’s Enigma Variations, and works by acters as belief in liberty for the nation they of 1919, discusses his most recent book at money, power and access to buy and display Malcolm Arnold and Franz Schreker. Visit were creating. Go to www.masshist.org/ the Boston Public Library in Copley Square. an absolutely unprecedented amount of http://necmusic.edu/longwood-sympho- events/ for more information. 6pm at 1154 A City So Grand: The Rise of an American stuff from around the world: furniture, silk ny-orchestra for details. Ticket price TBA. Boylston St. FREE, but registration Metropolis, Boston 1850-1900, examines the + petticoats, silver teapots, wigs—and even Sat, May 21: required. period in which Boston became one of the Boston Prime Timers meets at paintings. Meet in the Sharf Visitor Center. Harriet Tubman House (corner of Mass. Sat, May 28: From prehistoric cave painters world’s great metropolises, achieving global 11am. FREE with museum admission. prominence in politics, medicine, education, and Columbus aves). On the program is to contemporary environmental artists, the Sat, May 14: science, social activism, literature, com- Fenway jazz artist Shah “Creating a Healthy Diet,” a discussion and natural world has been a consistent inspira- merce, and transportation. Go to www.bpl. Hadjebi hosts a party to celebrate release of interactive demonstration of healthy foods tion to artists in all eras. In this gallery talk, org/central/calendar for details. In Departure, the new CD by his band, Persian and diets by Phoebe K. Flemming, a regis- Beth Pugliano examines works that incor- + the Boston Room, 6:30-8pm. FREE Blue. You’ll have to go to Davis Square for it, tered dietitian for Kit Clark Senior Services. porate or respond to nature in a variety of but it will surely be worth the ride. 7-9pm at Prime Timers is an educational, cultural ways and examines the appeal of the natural Johnny D’s, 17 Holland Street. $10 cover. and social activities network for older adult world to artists and viewers, how nature has gay and bisexual men and their friends. influenced the subjects and appearance of Meeting at 2:30pm; program at 3:30pm. For art, and what it means when an artist con- more information, visit www.bostonprime- sciously abandons nature in favor of some- Show at Museum School Brings Art of timers.org $2 donation at the door. thing else. Meet in the Sharf Visitor Center. Noon. FREE with museum admission. Traveling Scholars Winners into Focus Thu, May 26: Andrea Wulf speaks at the By Matthew Juul and Kristen McCleary “I wanted to make an immersive experience,” Kotker said. raveling abroad while creating art is Each piece in the room was handmade, Laughing at Misery, ‘prophets’ ends run a dream come true for the recipients from the rug made from newspapers to By Susie Blair of the School of the Museum of Fine Fank’s untied shoelaces. The newest production to come to the Huntington Theatre Company, “Sons of Arts’ Traveling Scholars award. T “Putting it together was the most the Prophet,” offers an unexpected and humorous perspective on tragedy. In 2009, the proposals of artists Kate exciting part,” Kotker said. Partially based on playwright Stephen Karam’s experience growing up in Sinnott, Ariel Kotker, Nathan Boyer and A faux stuffed bird lies on Fank’s shelf. Scranton, Pennsylvania, the play chronicles the misadventures of brothers Charles David D’Agostino were selected by two Kotker chose to display the bird as it was in (Dan McCabe) and Joseph Douaihy (Kelsey Kurz), who are dealing with the recent blind panels of art professionals. The school death. death of their father and a slew of other obstacles. financed the winners as they travelled across “As painful as it is, that’s reality,” she Karam is best known for writing the Off-Broadway hit “Speech & Debate,” the country and around the world, studying said. which he is adapting to film. and working on their art, which was on Her work not only reflects life’s posi- “Sons of the Prophet” features the Broadway-experienced Yusef Bulos as display from March 30 to April 30 at the tives, but subtly mirrors death’s darkness. the brothers’ Uncle Bill and Tony Award winner Joanna Gleason as Gloria. The SMFA’s 2011 Travelling Scholars Exhibition. In her travels, Kotker hired a guide in New Huntington Theatre’s artistic director, Peter DuBois, collaborated with Karam and Sinnott’s piece is the latest incarnation Hampshire to teach her how to hunt and directed the cast. of a work five years in the making. The dress birds. Kotker, a longtime vegetarian, “It follows Joseph’s story and his interaction and all the crazy, wondrously idea began as a paper sculpture, but when said she was torn throughout the process, but colorful people in his life,” said actor Kurz. He was recently featured in a Broadway prompted to build the walls of her studio found the experience to be “very positive.” production of “The Merchant of herself, Sinnott found inspiration in The residents of this fictional town eat song- Venice” and is playing the role of architecture and building materials. birds, another testament to the piece’s faintly Joseph in his first collaboration “I put up the walls of the studio, so I veiled morbidity. with the Huntington Theatre. thought, I can do anything I want to them,” “Killing something beautiful was Joseph is a third generation she said. interesting to me,” Kotker said. Lebanese-American, Maronite Using such ordinary materials as Juxtaposing the images of life and Christian, openly gay former drywall, white house paint, and fluorescent death, Kotker details Fank’s journey toward marathon runner. Throughout the lights, Sinnott blends architectural elements a realization of his mortality. play he has to cope with the loss with sketching, creating an intricate Nathan Boyer and David D’Agostino of his father, his own mysteriously environment where the drawings turn three- use video to challenge their viewers. declining health, and his elderly dimensional. In “Arthur Knight Hammer: King of the uncle, who has come to live with Sinnott used her Traveling Scholars Bears,” Boyer, a documentary filmmaker, him and his younger brother. award to travel through Spain, specifically profiles a gay man who attempts to make his “He tries to solve everyone Barcelona, and into France. own interpretation of Christianity after the else’s problems. He thinks that will “I didn’t really have an itinerary,” fundamentalist movement rejects him. solve his own, but he learns that she said. “I would wake up and just start D’Agostino displays “Dr. Skullface” we’ve got to take care of ourselves walking.” and “Mystery Talk,” two of his performing sometimes,” Kurz said. During that time, she worked making arts videos, at the show. The two pieces, Kurz insists that while the furniture from old Spanish wood and like his other works, look into how cultural subject matter is inherently dark, doors, drawing inspiration from everyday models become the basis for people’s it is still a comedic performance. constructions that most people overlook. personas. “The play tackles those moments in our lives when things can’t seem to get The way an environment affects Curator Joanne Knight enjoys the worse … and all of a sudden it starts raining and we’ve forgotten our umbrella. And someone’s perception of a piece of art challenge of showcasing different works in there’s nothing we can do but laugh at how funny that moment is,” he said. intrigued Sinnott. the same show. “The audience should expect the chance to laugh at misery, which is “What’s happening around the sculptures “I love getting in and trying to get in something I think people are afraid to laugh at, especially today,” Kurz said. “I think is a lot more interesting to me than the the brains of these very different people,” this play offers us a glimpse into that world again where laughing at our pain and sculptures themselves,” she said. she said. our misery is OK.” Kotker stayed closer to home, exploring Knight is confident about the exhibi- “Sons of the Prophet” runs through May 1 at the Calderwood Pavilion at the the small town life of Western Pennsylvania. tion’s choices. Boston Center for the Arts. Tickets are available online at huntingtontheatre.org. Her creation, “His Room as He Left It,” is a “It’s not driven by the exhibition; it’s After its premiere at the Calderwood, “Sons of the Prophet” will be performed Off- “walk-in novella,” an interactive room where driven by who is the best,” she said. “All you Broadway at the Roundabout Theatre Company in New York City this fall. each item details the life of the teenaged have to do is choose the best art you see.” Susie Blair is an undergraduate student in the Northeastern University School character, Drey Fank, and his interactions Matthew Juul and Kristen of Journalism. with the residents of Sparkleton, a fictional McCleary are undergraduate students Pennsylvanian town. in the Northeastern University School of Kotker tells the story of a teenager who Journalism. discovers his own ethical awareness. LooseR Style Lights Up Fenway Painter’s Canvases By Lisa Fay It is when Stitt paints the countryside Ed Stitt showed a loosening of style in and the gardens in an urban environment his recent exhibition, “Everyday Glories,” that this loosening styles shows up. Larz Oak which ran at Gallery NAGA from March 4 and Winsor Tree look like balloonscapes as through March 26. these trees are centered in these paintings. Proudly serving Fenway condominium “I wanted these painting to be reduced The Rose Garden Trees, my favorite painting,

home owners since 1988 to only the essentials,’’ Stitt said in a Gallery shows patches of deep red and light purple NAGA press review. “It’s very freeing not to almost lilac mixed with splashes of pink to The Lundgren Management Group, Inc. be enslaved by each object. I am using less color these leafy trees. detail and broader strokes. I think this really Stitt dropped out of the seminary to Property Management Services energizes the paintings.’’ become a painter, “figuring God could use Kevin C. Kelliher, CPM The Fenway Studios painter aims for a happy painter rather than an unhappy architectural accuracy in Boylston Greetings, missionary,’’ according to his website. This For more information contact us at: Musical Alley, and Sunrise West Tremont decision has been a blessing for Fenway (617)887-3333 Street. Every brick, shadow and sunlight are residents for over 25 years. www.LundgrenManagement.com so neatly in place, one almost forgets this is a Lisa Fay lives in the West Fenway. painting, and not a photograph. 8 | FENWAY NEWS | MAY 2011

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Hacin has put his stamp on the South End’s SoWa section with a half-dozen distinctive For This Play, the Headphones Go On buildings and he created the master plan After shaking up Boston’s arts scene in its first season at the restored Paramount Sat, May 1: The Terezín Music Foundation for renovation of the arcade and lobbies at Theatre, ArtsEmerson moves outdoors with an intriguing British import, and Temple Israel present a memorial ser- Church Park on Mass Ave. 6pm. Info which The Guardian called a “a theatre experience in which there are no actors vice for Holocaust Remembrance Day with + at http://the-bac.edu/x3698.xml. and only one member in the audience: Cantor Roy Einhorn and local survivors; Free. you.” In Susurrus, audiences use a map to a screening of Creating Harmony, an Thu, May 5: The 27th Boston LGBT Film pick of thepick of month wander through the Public Garden as they award-winning documentary about music Festival gets underway at the MFA with a listen to the piece, adapted especially for and the Holocaust; and a performance by screening of Tom Tykwer’s latest movie, 3 Boston, on MP3 player and headphones the celebrated Hawthorne String Quartet (Drei). For a full rundown of the festival, (both provided). Snippets about opera, of music composed in the Terezín camp. which runs through May 15 and also screens memorial benches, and botany meld into At Temple Israel, 477 Longwood Ave. at the Brattle Theatre and Fenway Health, what one British critic called “a sensual 617-566-3960. Parking $7 at 375 Long- e-mail media director Charlotte Robinson reinterpretation of A Midsummer Night’s wood Garage. Suggested ages 12+, [email protected]. Dream with a contemporary edge.” The + 3-4:30pm. FREE 7:30pm Tickets $8-$10. piece runs 80 minutes, although you can Sat, May 1: Fri, May 6-Fri, 13: set our own pace. Journeys leave every 20 New England Conservatory Interested in “a surrealis- minutes between 11:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. college and prep students join forces tic interpretation” of Henrik Ibsen’s Hedda and cover roughly a mile. Susurrus Opens with faculty, A Far Cry, and other NEC- Gabler? If so, the BU Theatre on Huntington May 20. Buy tickets ($25) or learn more at affiliated musicians to present a benefit Ave. has your production, an MFA directing www.artsemerson.org or call 617-824-8000. concert in support of Japan in the wake project for student Ellie Heyman that also of the devastating March earthquake features students and designers from the and tsunami. 8 p.m. in Jordan Hall. NEC School of Theatre. Tickets $10-$12; available faculty members performing include Paul at www.BostonTheatreScene.com. Biss, Lucy Chapman, Kim Kashkashian, Fri, May 6: Peter Pansy, Ryan Landry’s new THURSDAYS Laurence Lesser, Lisa Saffer, and Masuko show opens at Machine and runs through Ushioda. Donations will be collected May 29. The story of “a very mischievous The following events take place at the • 10 a.m. ESL, with Rudy Corvo + in the lobby. FREE Peterborough Senior Center, located two boy who not only has the ability to fly but SPECIAL EVENTS Sun, May 1: blocks from Boylston between 100 and 108 Spend your Sunday at Kaji swishes quite effeminately while doing so,” Tue, May 3: Jersey St. (walk down the alley and look left). Aso Studio and sample the arts, culture, Landry’s latest extravaganza takes place in For more information, call 617-536-7154. • 10am—Planning Committee meeting and food of Japan. There will be demos of the enchanted land of Provincetonia. 8pm at • noon—Annual meeting calligraphy, tea ceremony, and traditional 1254 Boylston St. Tickets $35-$45 at www. Recurring Wed, May 4: Japanese music, and the winners of the 2011 brownpapertickets.org. haiku contest will be announced. Sushi and Mondays • Short story discussion: John Updike Mon, May 9: The Friends of the Libraries at more, at 40 St. Stephen St. Call 617-247-1719 • 10am: Breakfast Club with Matti Taxi coupons available Boston University will host an evening with • or visit www.kajiasostudio.com for more • 11am: Films—May 2. Grumpy Old Men Thu, May 5: actor Leonard Nimoy, aka Spock on the noon—Walk for the Senior information. 2–7pm; admission $10-$8. (1993); May 9, Seven Brides for Seven Center original Star Trek. A Boston native, Nimoy Tue, May 3: Brothers (1954); May 16, On the Waterfront Wed, May 11: 11am—Diabetic shoe clinic by Northeastern University presents will lecture on his long career in Hollywood. (1954); May 23, Titanic (1997); May 30, LifeCare Medical Ensemble l’Arsenale, a chamber music 6pm in the Tsai Performance Center. For From Here to Eternity (1953) Thu, May 12: ensemble from Treviso, Italy, and Ecce, a more information, please call 617-353-3696 Tuesdays Massachusetts chamber music ensemble, or visit www.bu.edu/archives. $25, but free • 11am—Feedback on the Walk, led by Don • 11 a.m: Exercise with Mahmoud 12:15pm—Haiku brush painting, and tea in a concert of music by contemporary to Libraries Friends and members of the BU • composers. Program includes What the community. • 12 noon: Documentary films—May 10, Wed, May 18: Marilyn at the Movies (2002); May 17, Wave Meant (2007) by Nicolas Tzortzis, and Wed, May 11: Broadway and jazz stalwart • 11am—Short story discussion: Grace Paley Elvis, Through the Years (2008); May 24, Self, Analyzed (2010) by Travis Alford as Linda Eder helps Keith Lockhart open the • noon—Mass. College of Pharmacy well as music by Lorenzo Tomio and Filippo The World of Nat King Cole: This Way Out presentation new Boston Pops season with a tribute to (2006); May 31, The Ocean’s Eleven Story Perocco. Fenway Center, 77 St. Stephen St., Judy Garland. Attendees are also invited Thu, May 19: (2001) noon—Mini-concert with + 7:30pm. Reserve seats at tickets.neu. to dress as their favorite character from Wednesdays Gloria edu. FREE The Sound of Music; 20 costumed audience Wed, May 25: • 10–noon: Blood pressure check with Joyce 11am—May birthdays Wed, May 4: For the final lecture in its spring members will join the chorus on stage for a celebration • 1 p.m: Yoga with Carmen series, Boston College of Architecture Sound of Music sing-along (although we’re Thu, May 26: 12:15pm—Book & Artist brings prolific young architect David Hacin having a hard time seeing the connection Discussion with Barbara Boger to Cascieri Hall at 320 Newbury Street. calendar on page 7 >

Sat, Apr 30: Annual “Birds of the Back Bay ning in Boston on People.” Panelists: Ezra Thu, May 12: Public hearing on institutional Prevent Violence to Humans & Animals. Fens,” a bird walk guided by Dr. Gwilym Glenn, MIT lecturer; Karla Rideout, active master plan and 168 Mass Avenue project. Public meeting, 6-8pm. Boston Room, Jones, professor of biology, NU, sponsored Fenway resident, Berklee Task Force co- 5:30pm. BRA Board, 9th fl, City Hall. Boston Public Library, 700 Boylston Street, by Fenway Civic Assoc, 7am. Meet at chair; John Rosenthal, president of Mere- For more info, email Gerald.Autler.bra@ RSVP to: [email protected] Japanese Bell outside the Kelleher Rose dith Mgmt.; State Rep Byron Rushing; Kai- cityofboston.gov. For more info, visit: www.safepeople- ros Shen, BRA director of planning. Light Garden (by footbridge behind MFA). Bring Tue, May 17: East Fens Community/Police safepets.org or www.animalessegurosper- supper at 5:30pm, meeting at 6pm. Fenway binoculars. mtg, 6pm. Morville House, 100 Norway St. sonasseguras.org Health, 1340 Boylston in West Fens. To Sat-Sun, Apr 30-May 1: Open House Week- Thu, May 19: US Rep. Michael Capuano’s request child care, interpretation or trans- Tue, May 17: Audubon Circle end at Emerald Necklace Conservancy Visi- liaison holds office hours: 1-2pm. Fenway portation, or for more info, call Sarah at Neighborhood Assoc. board meeting, tor & Volunteer Center. 125 The Fenway. Health, 1340 Boylston. Residents’ 617-267-4637x19 or email her at shorsley@ 6:30-8:30pm. Harvard Vanguard, 131 Events include guided tours of Fens, show- questions/concerns about federal agencies, fenwaycdc.org. Brookline Ave., Annex Bldg., Rm 3D. For ing of “The Olmsted Legacy,” lectures and more info, call 617-262-0657. national issues or legislation are welcome. Wed, May 4: Fenway liaison for Mayor’s more. For more info, visit www.emerald- Mon, May 23: Longwood Medical Area Fo- Office of Neighborhood Services, William Tue, May 17: Ward 5 Democratic Committee necklace.org or call 617-522-2700. rum, 6:30-8pm. Location TBD. For location Onuoha, holds office hours: 3:30- meeting. 7pm, First Church, 66 Marlboro Sun, May 1: Guided walk thru the Fens led or to verify if meeting will be held, email 5:30pm, YMCA, 316 Huntington Ave. No St., cor.of Berkeley and Marlboro streets, by Emerald Necklace Conservancy docent. Laura at [email protected]. appointment needed. Wed, May 18: Justine Mee Liff Fund Party in 1-2:30pm. Departs from Visitor Center, 125 Tue, May 24: Symphony Neighborhood Task Thu, May 5: Walk to raise funds for the the Park (adjacent to Kelleher Rose Garden). The Fenway. For more info, call 617-522- Force meeting, 6:30pm. For more info or Peterborough Senior Center, noon, (rain Noon. For ticket info, call 617-522-2700. 2700 or visit www.emerarldnecklace.org. for location, call City Councilor Mike Ross’s date: Fri, May 6). Meet at Jersey & Boylston. Wed, May 18: Tue, May 3: Christian Science Plaza CAC Fenway liaison for Mayor’s office at 617-635-4225. For more info, see front pageor call Center Working Session sponsored by BRA. Office of Neighborhood Services, William Tue, May 24: at 617-536-7154, Mon-Thurs, 9:30-2pm. Onuoha, holds office hours: 3:30- Fenway CDC Urban Village 8-10am. Christian Science Publishing Committee. 6pm. Get involved in Mon, May 9: Berklee Task Force meeting, 5:30pm, YMCA, 316 Huntington Ave. No House Bldg, 210 Mass Ave. (enter at monitoring development in the Fenway and sponsored by the BRA. 6-8pm. Location appointment needed. Christian Science Monitor entrance). For advocating for the kind of neighborhood TBD. For more info email Gerald Autler at Wed, May 18: more info email Lauren.Shurtleff.bra@ West Fens Community/Police you want. Community Room, 73 [email protected]. cityofboston.com or call her at 617-918- meeting., 5pm. Landmark Center (401 Park Hemenway St., side door. For more info, 4353. Tue, May 10: Ward 4 Democratic Committee Drive), 2nd fl, District 4 Police Substation email Callie at [email protected] or Tue, May 3: Fenway CDC annual meeting mtg. 6:30pm, South End Branch Library, (next to security desk). call her at 617-267-4637x16. featuring a discussion of “Focusing Plan- 685 Tremont St; Wed,Boston May 18: Safe People, Safe Pets—Help Cab boston cab 617-536-5010 For a trip to the aiport or a night on the town, don’t call any cab, call Boston Cab—your neighbor for 50 years and a proud supporter of The Fenway News.