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Free ages Mission Hill BOOK YOUR REVERE JOURNAL16 P REVERE JOURNAL Volume 29 • Number 1 POST IT YOUR HOMETOWN NEWSPAPER SINCEYOUR 1881 HOMETOWN NEWSPAPER SINCE 1881 Call Your Advertising Rep VOLUME 19, No. 41 VOLUMEPrinted 19, No.on 41 (617)524-7662 recycled paper GAZETTE WEDNESDAY WEDNESDAYServingRevere's Mission Hill and TND the Longwood Medical and AcademicRevere's Area TND February 14, 2018 February 14, 2018 617-524-2626 • www.MissionHillGazette.com FEBRUARY 5, 2021 — MARCH 4, 2021 INDEX INDEX receives $50,000 receives $50,000 Editorial 4 Editorial 4 Police News 16 PoliceReggie News 16 Lewisstate Center grant for opened jobs up as massstate vaccination grant for sitejobs Sports 11 Sports 11 By Seth Daniel Special to the business community that Special to The Journal the business community that Classifieds 18-19 Classifieds 18-19 are critical to fostering eco- are critical to fostering eco- The last time Health Chief Monday morning the Bak- nomic success and building Monday morning the Bak- nomic success and building Marty Martinez was at the Reger-Polito- Administration stronger neighborhoods in ev- er-Polito Administration stronger neighborhoods in ev- DEATHS DEATHS awarded $500,000 to nine ery region in Massachusetts.” gie Lewis Center, it was prior awardedto $500,000 to nine ery region in Massachusetts.” Thomas Boyan, Sr Revere is rebuilding its projects through the Urban Revere is rebuilding its Thomas Boyan, Sr the pandemic and for a summerprojects through the Urban Agenda Grant Program. The economic and employment Agenda Grant Program. The economic and employment Marie Butera Marieyouth Butera employment fair. Revere arm of The Neigh- base by utilizing large-scale Revere arm of The Neigh- base by utilizing large-scale Richard Buttiglieri RichardIt wasButtiglieri a time of hope and exborhood- Developers (TND) and high value assets includ- borhood Developers (TND) and high value assets includ- citement for young people who was one group given $50,000 ing , Wonder- Theresa Conte Theresa Conte was one group given $50,000 ing Suffolk Downs, Wonder- were looking to have a great andin funding to help establish land, a soon-to-close NECCO in funding to help establish land, a soon-to-close NECCO Dr. Adrian Costanza Dr.productive Adrian Costanza summer working atworkforce development ser- plant, and the MassDevelop- workforce development ser- plant, and the MassDevelop- vices in Revere to support lo- ment TDI Waterfront District. Dorothy Cordaro Dorothyjobs or Cordaro internships. vices in Revere to support lo- ment TDI Waterfront District. Then came the dark days calof residents to acquire newly The program seeks to un- cal residents to acquire newly The program seeks to un- Gerardo Iannuzzi Gerardo Iannuzzi COVID-19. created jobs. lock community-driven re- created jobs. lock community-driven re- PatriciaNever Muse did Martinez ever be- Lt. Gov. Karyn Polito along sponses to local obstacles, Lt. Gov. Karyn Polito along sponses to local obstacles, Patricia Muse Lt. Gov. Karyn Polito, Ann Houston of The Neighborhood Developers, State Rep. RoseLee Vincent, Lt. Gov. Karyn Polito, Ann Houston of The Neighborhood Developers, State Rep. RoseLee Vincent, lieve in his wildest dreams onwith Housing and Economic and promote economic devel- with Housing and Economic and promote economic devel- Paul Penta, Jr. Bob O' Brien of Revere Economic Department, Mayor Brian ArrigoPaul and Penta,Secretary Jr. of Housing and Bob O' Brien of Revere Economic Department, Mayor BrianPhotos Arrigo by Jeremiah and Robinson/Mayor’s Secretary of Office Housing and Development Secretary Jay opment opportunities through that day of the employmentEcomonic fairDevelopment Health Development Chief Secretary MartyJay Ash Jay atMartinez theopment announcement opportunitiesand Stacey of thethrough Kokaram, Urban Agenda director Grant ofProgram Vaccination on stations set up in the gym at the Reggie Lewis Ecomonic Development Jay Ash at the announcement of the UrbanAntonetta Agenda SalamoneGrant Program on Ash came to Revere City Hall partnership-building, problem Antonetta Salamone that the next time he steppedMondayAsh came morningthe Officeto Revere in the of City ReverePublic Hall City Health partnership-building,Council Preparedness Chambers. problem at the BPHC, introduce Center this week. Monday morning in the Revere City Council Chambers. solving, and shared account- to present the check to the solving, and shared account- foot in the Center, it would be forto presentthe new the checkmass tovaccination the site at the Reggie Lewis Center in Neighborhood Developers. ability in urban centers. The Neighborhood Developers. ability in urban centers. The Obituaries Pages 8 + 9 Obituariesan improbable, Pages 8 but+ 9 also hopeful, Mission Hill on Wednesday. The site is open to those age 75 “Our administration under- competitive awards offer flex- “Our administration under- competitive awards offer flex- Real estate values continue to be strongsituation in– one Revere that includedRealstands and theestate importance older for values of appointments local iblecontinue funding to get for vaccinated, localto be efforts strong but so far in the Revere stands the importance of local ible funding for local efforts the hope of immunity via massleadership site has and had its impact trouble on attractingthat bring residents together commufrom the- general area. leadership and its impact on that bring together commu- INDEPENDENT days on the market in 2016. INDEPENDENTvaccinations“2017 was afor fantastic a relentless year vi- By SueMartinez Ellen Woodcock said they havedays ona goalthe market of administering in 2016. “20171,200 wasdoses a fantastic CAMH year the lives members of residents,” said nity hear stakeholders about to pursue NEWSPAPER GROUP By Sue Ellen Woodcock NEWSPAPER GROUP the lives of residents,” said nity stakeholders to pursue The number of listings in rusto be that in real has estate,” sickened, said and Joe evenLt. Governorper week Karyn initially. Polito. economicThe number development of listings iniin - to be in real estate,” said Joe Lt. Governor Karyn Polito. economic development ini- The Revere real estate mar- 2017 also dropped to 265, “The Urban Agenda Grant tiatives. These awards will The Revere real estate mar- 2017 also dropped to 265, killed,Mario his of Centuryfellow Bostonians. 21 Ma- “The Urban Agenda Grant tiatives. These awards will Mario of Century 21 Ma- On Wednesday morning,ket in 2017 was definitely a 10.8fund percent projects down in , from 297Clin - SmithProgram Street relies on the development strong fund projects in Boston, Clin- ket in 2017 was definitely a 10.8 percent down from 297 rio Real Estate. “There’s a Program “For relies me on theto stronghave been here community in manyrio Realways Estate.and to “There’s a good one with higher prices in 2016. The good news for though, Martinez found himselfgoodpartnerships one with higher between prices local in 2016. The good news for partnerships between local $1.5lot ofMILLION confidence FOR and equity the last time for the fair inSee the TND GRANTintegrate , Page it 3 into lotour of vaccination confidence Bandy L aura equity P lummer He addedSee TNDthat GRANT his family , Page 3has $1.5 MILLION FOR for homes than in 2016, but sellers is that the original list- in just that situation standingforgovernment, homes than non-profits in 2016, but and sellers is that the original list- government, non-profits and NORTHERNin homes. For STRAND 35 years now a drop ingym the numberand now of to new be hereing is price very was plan matched is just 100 another in homes. role it For can 35 years now lived in Mission Hill for four NORTHERN STRAND a drop in the number of new ing price was matched 100 on the cusp of Mission Hill while Councillor Robert Haas Jr. By Sue Ellen Woodcock Councillor Robert Haas Jr. listings, Bymakingimportant,” Sue Ellen home-buying Woodcock said Martinez. percent of“It the time.play in serving thisit’s beencommunity.” positive. Now Aroundis the 18 people attended generations, something that listings, making home-buying percent of the time. COMMUNITYrollingit’s been outpositive. the TRAIL City-sponsoredNow is the tried to get barriers installed tried to get barriers installed COMMUNITY TRAIL an adventure.makes sense. It’s part of theThe com condominium- The place mar that- time has tohosted sell. RevereCity isthe getting monthly meeting of the Com- gives him “a foundational un- an adventure. The condominium mar- Thesitetime towhere Executive sell. Reverefolks Office 75is gettingand of older For years the abutters of in 2011 and received no re- For years the abutters of in 2011 and received no re- The Executive Office of “Thesemunity are the highestof Roxbury pric- andket part saw of similar Championship trends with track meets, bas- munity Alliance of Mission Hill derstanding of development in “These are the highest pric- ket saw similar trends withEnergy the overflow and Environmental from the Boston Route 1 have put up with the sponse. the overflow from the Boston Route 1 have put up with the sponse. Energy and Environmental are now getting vaccinatedes for we’ve seen in the last eight the median sales price at (CAMH) on Jan. 20. the community.” es we’ve seen in the last eight the median sales price atAffairs has approved a $1.5 noise fromour City. millions Using of cars,it as a way“We to should ketball get moregames, re -communitymarket and events people are moving noise from millions of cars, “We should get more re- Affairs has approved a $1.5 COVID-19market and people this week. are moving years,” said Maureen Celata, $315,000, up 16.7 percent On the agenda was a con- Curran has been assessing years,” said Maureen Celata, $315,000, up 16.7 percentmillion grant regarding the and nowmake some it city a councillorspart of the spectsolution from the state and fed- to Revere. and now some city councillors spect from the state and fed- million grant regarding the to Revere. owner/broker of MCelata Real over 2016. Days on the mar- versation with Sean Curran of public opinion and reported “uni- owner/broker of MCelata Real over 2016. Days on the mar-development of the Northern want tomakes have Mayor sense. Brian It has Ar- servederal government,” the Patch said..ContinuedMario on saidpage Revere 15 is desir- want to have Mayor Brian Ar- eral government,” Patch said.. development of the Northern Mario said Revere is desir- Estate. “And 2018 is going to ket also dropped from 67 in Estate. “And 2018 is going to ket also dropped from 67 inStrand Community Trail led rigo contact the MassDOT to Keefe noted that more af- Waterville rigoConsulting. contact the Curran MassDOT versal to agreementKeefe noted that that something more af- Strand Community Trail led be another banner year. Inven- 2016 to 47 days on the market able because of its proximity be another banner year. Inven- 2016 to 47 days on the marketby ablea Revere because on the of Moveits proximity part- install barriers along Route 1 fluent communities are often representsinstall Weston barriers Associates, along Route needs 1 fluent to be done” communities with the buildare often- by a Revere on the Move part- tory is low now, but everyone “Inventory is low now and to Boston, and it’s a hidden tory is low now, but everyone “Inventory is low now andner to organization, Boston, and Bike it’s a to hidden the between Route 16 and Cope- granted sound barriers. the owner betweenof 80 and Route 100 16 Smith and Copeings.- granted sound barriers. ner organization, Bike to the is looking to the spring.” everyone is looking toward gem with a beautiful beach. Ward 2 Councillor Ira No- is looking to the spring.” everyone is looking towardSea. CAMHgem with a beautiful escucha beach. land sobre Circle. un desarrolloWard 2 Councillor en Smith Ira No- Street Street. Theland company Circle. is looking “They are in a dilapidated Sea. According to figures from the spring,” Celata said voselsky pointed out that Sau- According to figures from the spring,” Celata said RevereMario has is looking a one-mile forward Ward 5 Councillor Charles voselsky pointed out that Sau- Mario is looking to forward convert theWard properties 5 Councillor into Charlesa state,” he said. “Something needs Revere has a one-mile By Laura Plummer the Massachusettstir las propiedades Associa- en unThe desar rental- marketdijo. is also Patch, Ward 4 Councillor gus got barriers along Route the Massachusetts Associa- The rental market is alsostretch in North Revere. The Patch, Ward 4 Councillor gus got barriers along Route to the spring market,housing drawing development. to be done there and the time stretch in North Revere. The to the spring market, drawing tion of Realtors,rollo residencial. the median strong with rents rangingAgregó from que su familia ha vivi- Patrick Keefe and Ward 1 1 installed along a new ball tion of Realtors, the median strong with rents ranging fromNorthern Strand Community Patrick Keefe and Ward 1 1 installed along a new ball from Boston and surroundingWeston is currently in the seems to be right.” Northern Strand Community fromUnas Boston 18 personas and surrounding asistieron sales a pricesWeston was $376,250,se encuentra $1,200 actual to $3,000.- do enCleat Mission noted Hill durante cua- Councillor Joanne McKen- field. sales prices was $376,250, $1,200 to $3,000. Cleat notedTrail has been in development Councillor Joanne McKen- field. communities. He addedcommunity that input phase of the The Harvard School of Pub- Trail has been in development lacommunities. reunión mensual He added de thatla Alian a 4.9- increase over prices in that if someone is paying big na teamed up on a motion at “It’s a quality-of-life is- a 4.9 increase See over DeLEO prices Page in 3 that if someone is paying bigfor over 20 years. The North na teamedmente up onen a lamotion fase at de opinión“It’s a quality-of-lifetro generaciones, is- algo que le da See DeLEO Page 3 for over 20 years. The North 2016. rent they just might be capable the Revere School systemplanning is processlast last and week’s has councilnot yet meetlic- Healthsue,” hecurrently said. occupies 90 2016. rent they just might be capableRevere zathe Comunitaria Revere segment School is de a system majorMission is Hilllast lastpública week’s ycouncil aún no meet ha- presentadosue,” he said. “una comprensión fundamental Revere segment is a major Homes also were also on of buying and taking advan- also a draw for buyers.filed any paperworking. Patch saidwith he the and city. the lateSmith Street,Barriers between are easily the seentwo Homes also were also on of buying and taking advan-part(CAMH)also in thea draw project el for 20 buyers.thatde enero. creates ing. Patchninguna said he propuesta and the late a la ciudad.Barriers aredel desarrollo easily seen en la comunidad”. part in the project that creates the market 41 days, a 26.8 tage of first-time homebuyers “It all adds to theCurran future explained that his role is properties in question. Curran the market 41 days, a 26.8 tage of first-time homebuyersa continuous“ItEn allla agenda adds7.5-mile to había therail trail future una con- Curran explicó que su función es Curran ha estado evaluando a continuous 7.5-mile rail trail percent increase over the 56 programs. growth of Revere,” heto said. “synthesize community input” spoke with a school represen- percent increase over the 56 programs. runningversacióngrowth from of Revere,” con West Sean he Everett, said.Curran Havede yousintetizar ever had la anopinión idea deTask la comu Force.- Bothla opinión the ATOD pública sity e ininformó children de and adults. running from West Everett, Have you ever had an idea Task Force. Both the ATOD sity in children and adults. and act as a conduit between the tative to see if they would be throughWaterville Malden Consulting. and Revere Curranfor how nidadyou could y actuar make como im- unTask conducto Force andun Revere “acuerdo on the universal The ATOD de que Task hay Force fund- REVERE RECREATION HOSTS PAINT through Malden and Revere for how you could make im- Task Force and Revere on the The ATOD Task Force fund- REVERE RECREATION HOSTS PAINT community and the developer. interested in the buildings, but to therepresenta Saugus River a Weston and soon Associates, provements entre to la comunidad the Revere y elMove promotor. are initiativesque hacer of algo” the coned projects los edificios. totaling $9,500 to to the Saugus River and soon provements to the Revere Move are initiatives of the ed projects totaling $9,500 to “A community process that in- they are not looking to expand intoel Lynn.propietario The North de 80 Revere y 100 Smithcommunity? “Un So proceso have the comunitario ap- MGH con Revere- CARES Coa- reduce youth substance use, & SKATE NIGHT AT CRONIN RINK into Lynn. The North Revere community? So have the ap- MGH Revere CARES Coa- reduce youth substance use, & SKATE NIGHT AT CRONIN RINK cludes this input ends up being a segmentStreet. allows La empresa users tobusca en- converplicants- totribuye the mini-grant a un mejorpro- lition.proyecto”, Revere on the Move improve their mental health, segment allows users to en- plicants to the mini-grant pro- lition. Revere on the Move improve their mental health, Continued on page 4 better project,” he said. Continued on page 3 joy spectacular views of the grams hosted by Revere on is additionally co-led by the and increase opportunities for joy spectacular views of the grams hosted by Revere on is additionally co-led by theRumney and increase Marsh. opportunities for the Move and the Alcohol, To- Healthy Community Initia- positive youth engagement. Rumney Marsh. the Move and the Alcohol, To- Healthy Community Initia- Thepositive funding, youth engagement. awarded bacco and Other Drugs Task tives Office at the City of Re- In addition to the mini- The funding, awarded bacco and Other Drugs Task tives Office at the City of Re-throughIn the addition Executive to the Office mini- Force; and this time, these vere. grants already funded, Revere through the Executive Office Force; and this time, these vere. of grantsEnergy already and Environmental funded, Revere ideas are going to become a This year over $20,000 on the Move has extended of Energy and Environmental ideas are going to become a This year over $20,000Affairs’ on the (EEA) Move Gateway has extended City reality. was awarded to fund ideas to their permanent change and reality. was awarded to fund ideas to their permanent change and Affairs’ (EEA) Gateway City Parks Program, enables the Every year a group of Re- make Revere a healthier place program mini-grant appli- Every year a group of Re- make Revere a healthier place program mini-grant appli- Parks Program, enables the design of the trail, develop- vere residents and institution- to work, to play, and to raise cations to Sunday, March 4. vere residents and institution- to work, to play, and to raise cations to Sunday, March 4. design of the trail, develop- ment of bid-ready construc- al leaders meet together to a family. The Revere on the Up to $1,395 is available for al leaders meet together to a family. The Revere on the Up to $1,395 is available for ment of bid-ready construc- tion documents, and receipt select the awardees of mini- Move mini-grant program ideas that make it easier to select the awardees of mini- Move mini-grant program ideas that make it easier to tion documents, and receipt of all necessary construction grants offered to the public offered $10,605 in funding eat healthy and be active for grants offered to the public offered $10,605 in funding eat healthy and be active for of all necessary construction permits. When completed, the through the community-led for permanent changes, pro- all. The application is open through the community-led for permanent changes, pro- all. The application is open permits. When completed, the trail will span 10 miles and organizations, Revere on the gram implementation, and trail will span 10 miles and organizations, Revere on the gram implementation, and Move and the Alcohol, Tobac- youth-led projects that would See MINI GRANTS Page 3 Move and the Alcohol, Tobac- youth-led projects that would See SeeNEWS MINI BRIEFS, GRANTS Page Page 2 3 co, and Other Drugs (ATOD) help prevent or reduce obe- See NEWS BRIEFS, Page 2 co, and Other Drugs (ATOD) help prevent or reduce obe- Our Offices will be Our Offices will be TRASH TRASH Price subject OPEN Price subject OPEN to change NOTICE without th to change NOTICE Due to the president's without Due to the president's thnotice Monday, February 19 notice Monday, February 19 Day Holiday, on Monday, Day Holiday, on Monday, .55 th $ Per February 19 , 2018 Trash .55 th President’s Day $ Per February 19 , 2018 Trash President’s GallonDay will be delayed by one day. Gallon will be delayed by one day. • 1002 Gal. 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2 • FEBRUARY 5, 2021 • Mission Hill Gazette Boston Police officers praise Commissioner Gross after sudden retirement

By Seth Daniel “ have worked under a lot officers and staff on the Police a great police executives, but I Radio to sign off. After vigorous Police Commissioner Willie don’t think they took the time to ‘thank yous’ Gross said – nearly Gross stunned the City and the get to know the community level in tears – that the Boston Police Boston Police ranks on Thursday cops and the community groups would continue responding to morning, Jan. 28, when he sud- the way he did,” he continued. calls no matter what happens. denly announced – with Mayor Long-time BPD officer Cecil “You are the ones that an- Martin Walsh – that he was retir- Jones said it was the personal swer the call each and every ing after 37 years and after being interest that Gross took in offi- day – sworn and civilian,” he the first African American Police cers, and his willingness to listen said. “Never ever forget your self- Commissioner in Boston for the first that made his so popular worth. And if the haters are lis- past three years. amongst the rank and file. tening, so be it. We’re still going The announcement came with He said he retired from the to answer these calls each and an abrupt departure on Friday, Department last month, and on every day. Our first responder and an announcement as well his last day, Gross called him family. Boston Police, Fire and by Gross that he wouldn’t be into his office for a chat. It ended EMS. The nation began here. running for mayor – even though up being a two-hour casual talk Don’t forget it…I love and appre- he had been considering it. about life and policing, and Gross ciate you all. Thank you. Yankee Commissioner Willie Gross signing off on the Police Radio Instead, it became a time of even cancelled an appearance to C-1 Oceanfront.” last Friday night in his last day on the job. Gross abruptly reflection for those that served spend more time with Jones. Mayor Martin Walsh also retired on Thursday and his tenure and time on the job drew with and under him for many Jones – who does a lot of work thanked the Commissioner for praise from many law enforcement officers who served with years – particularly police of- for charity inside the Depart- his service, being the mayor that and under him. ficers who came up with Gross ment – said Gross always lis- appointed him – and in the pro- through the ranks and came to tened to his ideas. cess – appointed the first African appreciate Gross as a natural included with him and no one for all Commissioners, but I ha- “He is and always was just American police commissioner leader who always had time for was left out. He asked questions ven’t seen a Commissioner that very real,” he said. “That’s the in Boston. those in the Department. and listened to your answers. knew his or her Department the best way to describe him – real.” “I want to thank Commission- “He was a natural leader,” He didn’t just move on and not way Willie did.” Mahoney and Jones shared er Gross from the bottom of my said Steve Fabiano, who cur- listen. He wouldn’t ask you to Paul Mahoney, who served as that during tragic situations in- heart for his 37 years of service rently serves on the Boston Po- do anything that he wouldn’t do a deputy superintendent under volving other officers and their to the Boston Police Department lice Department. “Everyone was himself…I haven’t been around Gross and has since retired, said families, Gross would often show and for his two and a half years he first began working along- up at the door for support. He leading the department as Com- side Gross while stationed in didn’t have to be there, but he missioner,” he said. “Throughout Dorchester. He said he worked wanted to be there, they said. his decorated career, he’s always on one side of that neighborhood, “He was the Commissioner, embodied the spirit of communi- and Gross worked on the other but he was a wonderful person ty policing that is so important to side. They often ran across each and very caring,” said Mahoney. building trust with the people we other on the beat, and he said “In our line of work, people don’t serve. Anyone who knows Willie Gross always made an impres- understand there are caring peo- can instantly feel his love for sion. ple out there. No matter what the job and his passion for keep- race, creed or neighborhood, he ing communities safe. No matter AoU-NE_W181590_BWH-MGH-BMC_Diversity Newspaper Ad_3.998w x 5h_Greyscale_WCROP_Print_V2_072320_HF.pdfAs they went up the 1 ranks, 7/27/20 1:34 PM he and Gross grew closer and was the same to everyone…It is the situation, his warm smile, eventually Gross promoted him no act with him. The kindness dedication, and love for meeting to deputy. and caring and compassion is people made him uniquely ca- “Willie’s style is absolutely something that he can’t turn off.” pable of taking on the toughest unique in policing,” he said. On Friday, in his last act on the challenges.” Department, Gross addressed all Walsh, Martinez discuss COVID, vaccination update By Lauren Bennett more than 30 testing sites, and inefficient process, especially for information about where to get a those who do not have access to

C Why have some communities not On Monday, Mayor Martin test can be found at boston.gov/ the internet,” Walsh said. He Walsh provided an update on coronavirus. M been a part of medical research? said the city is working to make COVID0-19 in Boston, saying “We continue to work with people aware of the vaccination Y You can help researchers develop new and better that the numbers have improved the state on COVID-19 vaccine treatments that benefit all of us. program. CM over the past few weeks, but peo- rollouts,” Walsh said, as well as Many groups of people have been left out of Chief of Health and Human MY ple need to continue to take pre- “expanding vaccination sites to research in the past. That means we know less about Services Marty Martinez said

CY cautions to prevent the spread their health. When you join the All of Us Research ensure that every community that the city is “actively prepar- Program, you'll help researchers learn more about of the virus. has equitable access to vaccines.” CMY ing for phases to come.” As of what makes people sick or keeps them healthy. February 1 marked Boston’s The Reggie Lewis Center also K February 1, those 75 and older re-entry into Step One of Phase opened as a mass vaccination JoinAllofUs.org/NewEngland are now eligible to receive the Three of the state’s reopening clinic on February 2, and is (617) 768-8300 plan. The list of businesses per- equipped to administer about vaccine. mitted to reopen with restric- 1000 vaccinations per week, Martinez also said the city is *All participants will receive $25 after completion of their tions can be found at boston.gov/ Walsh said. Many eligible res- pursuing partnerships with plac- visit. To complete the visit, participants must create an account, give consent, agree to share their electronic reopening. idents have also said they are es like community based clinics health records, answer health surveys, and have their measurements taken (height, weight, blood pressure, etc.), Walsh also told residents that frustrated with the process for “over the next several weeks,” and give blood and urine samples, if asked. they should not gather for the signing up for a vaccine across and “for the city, we’ll continue All of Us and the All of Us logo are service marks of the U.S. Super Bowl this coming Sunday, the state. to do that and make sure folks Department of Health and Human Services. and to ensure that testing is “The rollout has caused frus- can get access when necessary “part of your routine.” Boston has tration; it’s been a confusing and along the way.” 3

• FEBRUARY 5, 2021 3 Mission Hill Gazette • The company has decided to but that he didn’t believe condos Plans for the properties are and has received overwhelming CAMH pick up where it left off, and has were a practical solution from a still in the information-gathering public support for the project. Continued from page 1 hired South End’s RODE Archi- financial standpoint. phase, but Curran said Weston CAMH meets on the third tects to come up with potential Some community members hopes to file a letter of intent Wednesday of the month at 7pm. their footprint at this time. designs. The amount of units in also expressed a concern that in the coming months. He told Due to the coronavirus restric- When Weston acquired the each building would depend on Weston could sell the develop- the Gazette that he has had a tions, all meetings will be held on long-vacant properties in 2005, building height and massing. ment upon completion to a less number of successful meetings Zoom for the foreseeable future. it received city approval to demol- Several meeting attendees trusted developer. Curran stated with other community entities ish them and build rental units. pushed back on the idea of rent- that Weston’s intention was to The economic downturn of the al properties, urging Weston to manage the properties in the following years led to a delay in consider options for home own- long term, as they have done development and the approvals ership. Curran noted that every- with the majority of their devel- HAPPY have since expired. thing is currently up in the air, opments. VALENTINE’S DAY!!! Gift Certificates Available 1605 Tremont St. 617-232-2705 Boston, MA 02120 www.lizshaircare.com

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4 • FEBRUARY 5, 2021 • Mission Hill Gazette Hill Happenings

By Mossy Martin of my quick-thinking customers. for many years. R.I.P., Mary. middle linebacker and my team- is his story of being captured Officer Nunez handcuffed the I was saddened by the news mate on the last Killilea Club by the Nazis in Lodz, Poland, at Best wishes in retirement derelict and waited for the police that my friend, Billy Cummings championship football team in age 9 and later being rescued from the BPD to Tony Nunez, wagon to arrive. suddenly passed away. Billy, who 1979. I appreciate Gerry period- by American troops in Dachau, fondly known as Mission Hill’s Condolences to the family of grew up in the Mission Hill proj- ically calling me for updates on Germany, in 1945. Steve is the singing policeman. Besides being Martin McCauley Sr., a great ect, was a U.S. Army veteran the status of players from that father of former Mission Hill City a dedicated police officer, Tony American from Mission Hill, who who served in Vietnam. As a great team, many of whom un- Councilor, Michael Ross. is a talented singer. A few years passed away last month. At the youngster hanging out at the fortunately are no longer with us. Last week, I was searching for ago many of Tony’s Mission Hill budding age of 14, Martin joined St. Alphonsus Hall Recreation Another terrific Killilea Club neighbors and I enjoyed our- the Marines and served during Center, I enjoyed watching Billy middle linebacker was Frank a quick bite and took a chance at selves watching Tony perform at World War II. He later served display his awesome skills on Pedersen, who never misses the Food Mart across from Flann the Cathay Pacific in Quincy. One in the Merchant Marines, after the pool table. Billy was a good reading the Mission Hill Gazette. O’Brien’s. The crispy chicken dis- Saturday night in the summer of which he became a member of the athlete who played shortstop on Frank is still called “51” at Mike’s played through the window glass 2002, I was working behind the Local #3 Bricklayers and Allied the Ed Burke’s championship Donuts, because of the number looked good, and I was pleasantly counter at Mission Hill Liquors Craftsmen Union. Marty and his softball team in 1975. He was on the jersey he wore 50 years surprised. It’s not gourmet cook- when Officer Nunez came to my late wife, Kathleen raised eight classy and easygoing. Billy was ago. He anchored Killilea’s de- ing, but four pieces of chicken and rescue. An unhinged, brazen and children in their Burney Street quick with the one-liners, and fense for several seasons, includ- a couple of tasty biscuits for $6 not-too-bright thief suddenly home, a popular Mission Hill he was a great storyteller. Billy’s ing 1970, when the team defeated was a good deal. The workers at grabbed the cash register, ripping abode, augmented by a half-doz- tales were glowingly on display the South Boston Chippewas at the Food Mart are nice guys and it from its chord. In an attempt to en cheerful and pretty young at our annual “Breen Cookout,” White Stadium in the title game. always polite, too. exit with the register, he scurried ladies. held at the home of his cousin’s During this time period Frank I’m glad Buffalo lost their too fast before the automatic door Mission Hill also mourned the John and Dennis Breen in Ros- was a youth worker, and he and playoff game to the Chiefs after opened and ran head on into loss of Mary Merner, who passed lindale. This summer, while the the late Steve Ross worked with the glass door, giving me time away on Jan. 9. Mary was a beau- burgers are sizzling and the beer the kids in the South Boston the Bills disgracefully stayed in to corral him before a melee en- tiful woman, who, along with cans pop, we will think of our projects. Frank is mentioned in the locker room during the Na- sued. Fortunately Officer Nunez, her husband, Sonny, raised five great friend, Billy. Ross’s remarkable book, “From tional Anthem. In this Sunday’s on his night off, was relaxing terrific kids. Mary was a diligent Happy birthday to Gerry Broken Glass,” published in 2018, Super Bowl at Tampa Bay, the nearby at the Mission Hill Post, worker, who was employed at the O’Connell, who will be a youthful in a chapter about their days in Bucs will oust K.C. 24-23 on a and he was summoned by one New England Baptist Hospital 68 on Feb.11. Gerry was a savvy Southie. The crux of Steve’s book last-second field goal.

dades de alquiler, instando a New police commissioner Dennis White placed on administrative CAMH Weston a considerar opciones leave following emergence of domestic violence allegations Continued from page 1 para condominios. Curran señaló que están explorando todas las “Están en un estado ruinoso”, posibilidades, pero que no creía By Lauren Bennett allegations include “that White Office of Superintendent and dijo. “Hay que hacer algo allí y que los condominios fueran una pushed and threatened to shoot Chief in the Bureau of Field Ser- parece que es el momento ade- solución práctica desde un punto Police Commissioner Dennis his then-wife, also a Boston po- vices Night Command. He was cuado”. de vista financiero. White, who was sworn in on Feb- lice officer, and was later ordered promoted then to chief of staff… La Escuela de Salud Pública Algunos miembros de la co- ruary 1 following the retirement to stay away from his family.” to the rank of superintendent.” de Harvard ocupa actualmente munidad también expresaron of former Commissioner William The article continues on to say White is also a member of the 90 Smith Street, entre las dos su preocupación de que Weston Gross, has been placed on admin- that a restraining order was is- Boston Police Reform Task Force. propiedades en cuestión. Curran pudiera vender el desarrollo una istrative leave as of February sued on May 5, 1999 “that forced He has served with the BPD for habló con un representante de vez terminado a un promotor 3 by Mayor Martin Walsh, fol- White to vacate his home, stay 32 years. la escuela para ver si estarían menos confiable. Curran afirmó lowing allegations of domestic away from his wife and children, “In an attempt to create a interesados en​​ los edificios, pero que la intención de Weston era assault. and surrender his service weap- smooth transition and honor no buscan expandir su presencia administrar las propiedades a The Boston Globe reported on on,” and these allegations were former Commissioner Gross’s en este momento. largo plazo, como lo han hecho Wednesday that the city will be denied by White “in court filings.” desire to spend time with his Cuando Weston adquirió las con la mayoría de sus desarrollos. conducting an outside investi- The Globe also reported that no family, Dennis White was asked propiedades desocupadas en Los planes para las propie- gation around “the handling of evidence could be found “that to quickly step into the role of 2005, recibió la aprobación de dades aún se encuentran en la a 1999 allegation of domestic White was charged with a crime.” Police Commissioner, beginning la ciudad para demolerlas y con- fase de recopilación de infor- violence involving White,” the White began his time with the last Friday.,” Walsh said in a struir unidades de alquiler. La mación, pero Curran dijo que article states. department as a patrol officer in statement. recesión económica de los años Weston espera presentar una The article states that the D6 in South Boston, Walsh said “These disturbing issues were siguientes provocó un retraso en carta de intención en los próx- at the swearing-in ceremony on not known to me or my staff, but el desarrollo y desde entonces las imos meses. Le dijo a Gazette Monday, and then became D2 should have been at the forefront. aprobaciones han expirado. que ha tenido varias reuniones sergeant patrol supervisor and Upon learning of these serious La compañía ha decidido con- exitosas con otras entidades a sergeant detective in D4 in the allegations, I immediately act- tinuar donde lo dejó y ha contrat- comunitarias y ha recibido un South End and Internal Affairs. ed, placing the Commissioner on ado al estudio de arquitectura apoyo público abrumador para “Before he joined the command administrative leave, while cor- RODE Architects para que pre- el proyecto. staff in 2014, he was a lieutenant poration counsel engages outside sente posibles diseños. La canti- CAMH se reúne el tercer miér- and duty supervisor in District 2 counsel to conduct a full and im- dad de unidades en cada edificio coles del mes a las 7 pm. Debido a Brendan Behan Pub in Roxbury, District 3 in Matta- partial investigation. In the in- dependería de la altura y la masa las restricciones del coronavirus, 378A Centre Street pan, [and] District 13 in Jamaica terim, Superintendent-in-Chief del edificio. todas las reuniones se llevarán Jamaica Plain Plain,” Walsh said. “He served as Gregory Long will serve as acting Varios asistentes a la reunión a cabo en Zoom en el futuro pre- Deputy Superintendent in the Commissioner.” rechazaron la idea de propie- visible. 5

• FEBRUARY 5, 2021 5 Mission Hill Gazette • The 11:59 Generation: Students say remote learning pushes them to 24-hour cycle By Seth Daniel but it’s about the bigger picture,” Senior Farzana Janon said she in urban districts like Boston between learning and labor has he said. “It needs to be recognized feels penalized even when she by state decisions about moving been crossed. It’s noon on Monday, and Char- that I’m here during a pandemic thinks she’s doing the right thing. ahead with standardized tests For James, the answer lies in lene Pimentel has been up for and after a terrorist attack and “I put my camera on and partic- this spring despite the pandem- the quality of the education, and more than 24 hours doing home- having family in sick beds and ipated in class and did everything ic. However, the students said if he has come to realize that many work, trying to catch up from the after having to work. I’m here they said to do, and I still got a 65 the school district and the school teachers feel piling on homework loads of assignments that were after three hours of sleep after do- percent for class participation,” leaders would listen to students a is the answer. He said many piled on over the past week by ing your homework. I don’t need she said. “I don’t know why that little more, there could be an eas- teachers feel like the students her teachers. my feet kissed, but a round of happened. No one explained it…I ing of the pressure that has built aren’t doing anything because She needs to crash – to sleep applause wouldn’t hurt.” don’t understand the puntative up during this all-remote school they’re at home, when in fact – but she’s afraid of what her James and Pimentel said the aspect. Some people can’t do what year in Boston Public Schools many students like him routinely teachers might think of her if remote system has become so they ask.” (BPS). work more than 18 hours a day she misses class again, having daunting – next to impossible Pimentel said she hit an in- “We’re just paid lip service,” Pi- on school. It’s a disconnect the recently experienced a death in – and when one falls apart and flection point this month when mentel said. “We don’t even have students said, so far, hasn’t been her family this month and having can’t keep up the round-the-clock she lost a close family member. a voice in our own voice. That’s acknowledged in BPS. fallen behind on homework as While the family mourned the why we are treated like robots. If rigor, they are punished. “It really comes down to quali- she tried to mourn the loss. So, death, she found herself anxious they took the time to listen and “I actually feel like 11:59 is ty and not quantity,” he said. “We the Boston Latin Academy (BLA) generous; it’s so generous,” said because she was falling behind have the discussion, it could be need less quantitative aspects senior pushed through, eating a James, who spent more than 24 on homework. That led to some right…But this is child labor in and more positive aspects.” minimal lunch and then logging hours last week trying to com- serious social-emotional turmoil, front of me now. And I’m not even He and the other two students on and hoping she wouldn’t crash plete assignments so he wouldn’t she said, and a re-evaluation of getting paid to sit here.” would welcome less homework, on screen. fall behind. “I’m just glad it isn’t just where she’s headed in her James said such a statement and more time spent having ro- “I’m running on no sleep for the due at 9 a.m. because then I’d be education. about child labor and not getting bust conversations about the ma- last 24 hours,” she said on Mon- up until 5 a.m. trying to get it “I was doing my work and not paid is common amongst their day in an interview with two other all done every day. The system grieving the way a person should,” friends. He said adults often get terial. He pointed out a teacher BLA students. “What was I doing won’t accept late work. I have to she said. “That should speak vol- offended by that, and shut them he had in a previous year who all night? I was just studying and e-mail my homework every night umes…For me to feel I can’t take off at the mere mention of such would assign less homework, and catching up on everything that’s to one of my teachers. That’s be- time out to grieve with my family, a thing. However, he said adults use class time to provoke more built up. I lost a family member cause the ‘Turn It In’ (platform) to grieve the loss of a close family should be asking why a student thought and understanding of recently and missed school for two closes down at 11:59. I have five member, without the fear that I’m feels they should be getting paid the material in deep discussions. weeks. I just was trying to catch other classes to think about. His going to fail a class is not right.” and why it feels like labor and not That, he said, is more the model up and completing the assign- homework needs to come last and There is no easy answer, and learning. If the education system that would work during remote ments due at 9 p.m., then on to the no I couldn’t get it in on time. So, certainly teachers have also been is failing so much that students learning. ones due at 11:59 p.m., and then to get it in at all, I just e-mail it.” in a bind to figure out how to – especially honor students such “It’s the subtle differences like all the others because I wanted The stressful situation at the teach remotely and do so success- as they are – feel they should this that can make a much larger to attend class (Monday). City’s high schools is particularly fully. That has been complicated be paid, then he said the line impact right now,” he said. I didn’t want to attend without intense at BLA, which reported a doing my work. I feel terrible. I 4 percent increase in the numbers should have fallen asleep, but just of failing grade in December. That imagine what my teachers would isn’t unique as nationally stu- food for thought have thought of me.” dents have struggled to keep their While homework has been a grades up during the pandemic, bane of existence for high-school- and especially those in remote ers in Boston for some time, par- learning. ticularly those in the exam schools For James and Pimentel – as like BLA, the loads of work, and well as their group of friends – it’s expectations for finishing that all about the load of homework work, has gone into overdrive. and a lack of understanding for Students describe a 24-hour cy- what’s going on in the lives of cle of homework, with due dates students on the other side of the seven days a week and harsh computer screen. Teachers seem cutoffs at 11:59 p.m. – just before to be in a silo, they said, with some midnight when the computerized teachers having a totally different platforms officially switch over to set of rules than other teachers. February on kitchen cabinets! the new day. It leads to inconsistency and con- sale It is why struggling, weary stu- fusion for a number of students. n Up to 10% off our already low prices dents all over the city call them- James said there’s no time to selves “The 11:59 Generation,” be a teen-ager, no time to spend n Quality Candlelight cabinetry a sardonic toast to the fact that with family. He said he’s often n A range of styles, from traditional to contemporary they run on fumes, picking which gone an entire weekend with- n Expert advice and design by appointment assignments to complete before out coming out of his room and 11:59 p.m., and then moving on talking with his family – mostly n Earth-friendly options to other assignments throughout because he’s trying to meet week- n Enjoy the benefits of our consumer co-op the night-time that they can work end homework deadlines. on for half-credit. “Little do they know I have four When do they sleep? other AP classes and I’m trying to 100 Terrace Street, Boston, 02120 (near Roxbury Community College) According to Khymani James – spend time with my family and the student representative to the be a teen-ager with a life beyond M–F 8:30–4:30 n Sat 9:30–3 n 617-442-2262 Boston School Committee and a homework,” he said. “The home- BLA senior headed to Columbia work is a cherry on top. So, no, BostonBuildingResources.com University – they don’t. sometimes I’m not going to class Kitchen portfolio, style primer, FAQs, and more “We’re up 24 hours all the time, and I’m going to sleep.” 6

6 • FEBRUARY 5, 2021 • Mission Hill Gazette From baseball to voting to vaccinations: offers it all

By Lauren Bennett

When people think of Fen- way Park, certain things may come to mind: watching the game with friends and family, Fenway Franks, and Wally the Green Monster. Now, people are depend- ing on the historic ballpark to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. Fenway Park has officially be- come a mass vaccination site, with a soft opening on Friday, January 29 and an official open- ing on February 1, where it began vaccinating individuals aged 75 and older per the state vaccina- A resident gets her COVID-19 vaccine during the soft opening A vaccine preparer puts the appropriate dose of the Pfizer tion plan. of the Fenway Park mass vaccination site on January 29. vaccine into a syringe. The vaccination site is run by Cambridge-based CIC Health that aims to get people in and them online spreading the word in conjunction with the Com- out within 45 minutes to an hour. that they have been vaccinated. tic, because then we know exactly “As we scale up, we need to monwealth of Massachusetts, as The team explained that first, They even receive an “I Got Vac- when they’re coming and who do know how much time each por- well as the Boston Red Sox and people check in at one of the cinated at Fenway Park” button. we need to reach out to to remind tion of the site would take,” Mar- contracted health care delivery check-in stations, then they are “We want to make sure people them or help them set up their tinez said. coordinators such as Beth Israel brought over to the vaccination book their second appointment second appointment.” PREPARING THE VACCINE Deaconness Medial Center, Cat- area where they spend about while they’re here,” said Rodri- During a tour given to report- Chris Kaufmann, Vaccine Spe- aldo Ambulance, DMSE sports, five minutes with the person ad- go Martinez, Chief Marketing ers on the day of the soft open- cialist for the CIC team, said that and PWN Health. ministering the vaccine. Then, and Experience Officer at CIC ing, several people were receiving this site is distributing the Pfizer The vaccination site team said they move to the waiting area to Health. He said that around 95 their first shots. One woman said vaccine, which “comes to the site they wanted the process to be as monitor for any potential allergic percent of people have their sec- she didn’t feel anything during in a temperature controlled, ul- smooth as possible for people, reactions. After that, people are ond appointment booked before hers, and seemed pleased to have and have created an experience invited to take selfies and post leaving the site, “which is fantas- received the vaccine. Continued on page 7 WITH YOU TO CONQUER YOUR DEBT Begin the new year with one of our low rate solutions to consolidate your debt into one easy payment and put more cash in your hands.*

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• FEBRUARY 5, 2021 7 Mission Hill Gazette • message needs to get out there,” who received their first doses at Fenway Park Rodrigo. “And there’s no more Fenway Park last Friday. Continued from page 6 effective way to have a campaign Ivey, a Fenway resident, said for than have everybody that that she has been a home care tra low temperature box with dry comes here tell their family their worker since 2009 and “I’m priv- ice on it. From here, we’re putting neighborhood their friends the ileged to have the shot today,” she it in ultra low freezers.” importance of vaccination.” said. “I think it’s very imperative Kaufmann said the freezers He said that “this is an emo- and important that on a federal are set at minus 80 degrees Cel- tional moment. It’s not just an and a state level that we are sius, which is about minus 100 important medical and clinical acknowledged, we are respect- degrees Fahrenheit. The night moment and we recognize that ed, and we are also protected before, the number of reserva- and we’ve designed the experi- because we provide care to those tions is checked and the ap- ence with that in mind,” and the that are vulnerable.” propriate amount of vaccine is hope is that people will share She said that she was hesi- removed from the deep freezer their experience on social media tant to get the vaccine at first, and transferred to a pharmaceu- and encourage others to get vac- but when she saw President Joe tical grade refrigerator to thaw. Lisa Ivey and Linda Edge, both personal care attendants, spoke cinated when they are eligible to. Biden and Vice President Kama- The morning of distribution, the to reporters after receiving their first doses of the vaccine. vaccine is given to preparers to Wilson said that the site is la Harris “be responsible and be create syringes that will go into designed to avoid having people leaders from the front, it made it wait in line outdoors in the cold. comfortable for us to be leaders people’s arms. people had signed up to receive “We had voting in this very “Even in inclement weather, within our family.” At Fenway Park, the vaccine their vaccinations on that day, location—where they’re getting we want to be available for people She said the process of getting preparation happens at the bar and the site will initially only their shots, that’s where they to get their vaccines,” she said, her vaccination was “very easy,” area, which Kaufmann joked be open Monday through Friday, were casting their ballots in No- and booking for appointments is and she only felt “a little pinch.” “sort of redefines getting a shot but weekends will be added “very vember,” McKenna said. at the bar.” soon,” Wilson said. After begin- She continued, “no doubt, I done a week in advance. “We al- Linda Edge, formerly of Bos- Kaufmann explained that the ning with 500 vaccinations per mean Fenway has this amazing ways have appointments further ton but now a Quincy resident, vaccine is mixed with a sodium day, the the site will eventually emotional impact on the region than that week that will help said that her patient has illness- chloride solution and placed into provide 1,250 vaccinations per and the community as a whole accommodate people who may es that put him at increased risk government-provided syringes day. Eligible residents can sched- but we think this is probably choose to cancel their appoint- for the coronavirus. “I felt it was that enable six doses to be drawn ule an appointment at cic-health. its greatest responsibility that ment,” she said, which will help important for me, at least, to get out of each vial. com/vaccines. it’s had certainly in a long, long, avoid “discontinuity in their pair the vaccine so I can care for him “MRNA is actually stored in “We’re part of multiple mass long long time and maybe in its process for the vaccine.” better,” she said. liquid nanoparticles that help vaccination sites,” she said. history overall,” McKenna said. CIC Health also operates the She said the “location is ex- with the absorption of the vac- “We’re ready, willing, and able When asked how the site will mass vaccina- cellent,” and she also felt bet- cine into the cells,” he said. to serve as many people as we operate once baseball starts back tion site, and Wilson said that ter knowing she is protecting Kaufmann also explained that possibly can,” and hope to “scale up, McKenna responded by say- after operating that site for a her elderly mother as well. Both the locked freezer is in its own up” as more and more vaccine ing “We’ll make it work. I mean, little while, “we have designed women have signed up for their room, adding that “Pfizer is very becomes available. that’s what we do. . You know if and redesigned our workflows second doses as well, which are good at GPS enabled tempera- Sarah McKenna, Senior Vice we are here giving shots on April many times.” She said that the administered 21 days after the ture monitors on the box.” He President of the Boston Red Sox, 1…and if we are playing baseball team is working on figuring out initial dose for the Pfizer vaccine. said he receives emails when said that though she and the rest that day, I promise you that there the best number of check-in sta- “I’m really ecstatic to have this “something happens or if the tions, staff on site, and number opportunity to be here because product is released.” He said of the Red Sox team “want to see are people here that will move of vaccination stations needed there are a lot of people who got it can then be checked in on an the ballpark full again,” they and we will make that work.” per hour. petrified,” Ivey said, “and as we Excel spreadsheet. have “always understood our role Many people, especially in the “We want the public to feel the in the community prior to that.” Black and Brown communities ELIGIBLE RESIDENTS stand up and show that this is confidence that someone with Before becoming a mass vacci- that have been hit hardest by the GRATEFUL TO RECEIVE really important so we can put Chris’ expertise really brings to nation site, Fenway Park was a virus, have reservations about THE VACCINE this pandemic to rest, everyone bear,” said Rachel Wilson, Chief voting location for many people receiving the vaccine. Lisa Ivey and Linda Edge are needs to be accountable to get- Operating Officer for CIC Health. during last year’s election. “We obviously believe that the both personal care attendants ting the shot.” “We know where every dose is at any point thanks to his lead- ership. He’s been truly excep- tional.” FENWAY’S ROLE IN Nearly 2,000 doses of COVID-19 vaccine “compromised” at VA hospital VACCINATING RESIDENTS By Lauren Bennett termine the cause of the inci- told reporters at a press con- Wu said that Boston and the Rachel Wilson told reporters dent and why the monitoring ference on January 29 that “the federal government need to di- last Friday, “We are absolutely Nearly 2,000 doses of the Mod- and alarm system did not work most urgent step” is to “end the rectly reach out to and commu- thrilled to have our guests here. erna COVID-19 vaccine went bad as expected.” pandemic by getting residents nicate with residents regarding The state asked CIC Health to be on January 19 after a freezer at The spokesperson said that this protection of the vaccine.” the vaccine. the operator of the Fenway Park the Jamaica Plain VA Medical 1900 doses of the vaccine are no Wu has recently called for a “The vaccine spoilage issue is mass vaccination site and it has Center came unplugged, accord- longer viable, but “replenishment vaccination clinic in every zip a logistical one,” she said, adding been a true privilege to be part ing to a spokesperson for the VA doses are in process and we do not code in Boston to ensure equita- that the logistical issues are ones of this journey.” Boston Healthcare system. foresee disruption of our vaccina- ble access to the vaccine, as well that need to be “front and center” Beginning on February 1, 500 “The freezer was in a secure tion effort.” as for some to provide the vaccine as vaccine distribution locations location and had an alarm sys- Vaccinations began last week at varying hours to accommodate need to be able to store doses tem installed,” the spokesperson at rest homes and assisted living all. of the vaccine safely and for an said in a statement to the MH facilities in the JP area, including She also said that “building appropriate amount of time so Gazette. the Mount Pleasant Home and trust with communities, particu- none are wasted. Visit “The plug was found loose the Goddard House, as part of the larly our most impacted commu- “That all needs to be planned MissionHillGazette.com after a contractor accidentally state’s phased vaccination plan. nities,” is imperative, and “trust out right now,” she said, “not at removed it while cleaning. An City Councilor At-Large and requires transparency with plan- the point where people are com- investigation is underway to de- mayoral candidate Michelle Wu ning.” ing to receive the vaccine.” 8

8 • FEBRUARY 5, 2021 • Mission Hill Gazette Hill HISTORY This Month in Hill History Gazette Staff March of 2011, as well as return troversial payment in lieu of tax- burden on the homeowners of the store owner Genaro Dicienzo the $1,000. es (PILOT) made by universities city.” answered, “Not enough! We’re The Gazette’s top headlines Turner told the Gazette at the and other nonprofits in the city, The new guidelines call for going to wait for the big one.” from this month in local history: time that he felt his conviction following years of complaints by voluntary payments based on the Dicienzo did not name the was unjust, and that he thought Mission Hill residents and oth- institution’s property value. They lucky customer, but said that he 2011 he received a particularly harsh ers. also allow a deduction for any was a local resident and regular sentence. Participants in the program real estate taxes paid on property ticket buyer at the store. “Turner sentenced to three “The dilemma has been that include educational, medical, and owned by the institution that is “I want to congratulate the years in prison” I really don’t remember the sit- cultural institutions that own used for a tax-exempt purpose. winner,” he said. “He deserves it.” Former City Councilor Chuck uation happening,” Turner had property valued higher than $15 Turner was sentenced on Jan. 25, said, referring to his meeting million. Big institutions make 2001 1996 2011 to three years in prison and with Wilburn when Wilburn gave PILOT payments for their use of three years of probation follow- him the money. City services, such as police and “Local store sells $150,000 “Heliport to land at the ing his conviction on charges of Turner repeatedly made fire department. The payments ticket” Brigham” public corruption. claims that his indictment was were widely criticized as being The Huntington Market an Brigham and Women’s Hospi- Turner had been indicted for a racially motivated effort to si- shockingly low, and the institu- 818 Huntington Ave. sold the tal attained permitting for a con- accepting a $1,000 bribe from lence his radical voice. tions were not obliged to release store’s largest winning lottery troversial heliport pad in 1996. FBI informant Ron Wilburn in the figure to the public. ticket at the time on Feb. 6. Despite concerns about noise exchange for agreeing to help 2006 “Fifty-three percent of Bos- Since the store that sells the and safety from nearby resi- Wilburn obtain a liquor license, ton in tax-exempt,” said Coun- winning ticket gets one percent dents, all the proper permitting and for lying to federal agents “Council targets PILOT cil President Michael Flaherty, of the prize money, Huntington had been attained and was not about it. US District Judge Doug- payments” who had established a special Market received $1,500. under the jurisdiction of the Mis- las P. Woodlock ordered Turner to The Boston City Council ad- committee to review PILOT pay- When asked what he was go- sion Hill Planning and Zoning begin serving hisMISSION sentence in late HILL opted MAIN new guidelines STREETS for the con- ments. “That leads to an unfair ing to do with the extra cash, Advisory Committee (PZAC), Voted best Neighborhood Association by Gazette readers! although the hospital sought 617-232-0182 that committee’s approval as a www.missionhillmainstreet.com courtesy. 812 Huntington Avenue, Mission Hill Supporting Mission Hill History “We have all the permits we need,” Brigham and Women’s RESERVE YOUR SEATING NOW spokesperson John McGonagle MISSION HILL MAIN STREETS FOR THE DINING ROOM said. “The work now is around Small business brings vitality to the neighborhood! the construction of the pad.” Thai • Sushi • Pick-up • Delivery 617-232-0182 The hospital needed the he- www.missionhillmainstreet.com liport to retain certification as a 1542 Tremont Street, Boston, MA 02120 order.laughingmonkcafe.com or call 617.232.8000 level one trauma unit. Helicop- ters had been landing at a Went- Free Delivery to all Mission Hill, worth Institute of Technology Huntington Wine & Spirits Longwood Medical and property, but the lease with that Sale Items surrounding major universities school expired. excluded Mon.-Sat. 10am-11pm, Sun. 12 – 8pm. Call for delivery! 1528 Tremont St. MH McGonagle said that regular flights would begin that spring. 301 Huntington Ave. (across from YMCA) 617-536-0164 617.427.8080 • www.lillisgourmetpasta.com “I hope they use it sparing- Try our soups and sandwiches ly,” said Steve Goodman, whose 4CornersYogaWellness.com along with the best coffee Fenwood Road home sat right 617-506-0519 and donuts in town! in front of the Women and New- borns building where the heli- VIRTUAL & IN STUDIO CLASSES, 1524 Tremont St. copters would be landing. “They (across from Mission Church) MASSAGES AND GIFT CERTIFICATES have special zoning. If I want a porch, I need a building permit, but they don’t need anything.” kitchen n bath n windows n doors Open Seven Days workshops n reuse center McGonagle said that studies 11am - 12am indicated that most of the impact of the helicopters would be on 617-442-2262 748A HUNTINGTON AVENUE, BOSTON bostonbuildingresources.com the Brigham itself. He also said (617) 275-4989 • WWW.MONTECRISTOMISSIONHILL.COM that mitigation measures such as muffling the engines would CRISPY DOUGH 617-445-7799 or 617-445-7790 1605 Tremont St. Boston, MA be tested and that flight paths www.crispydoughpizzeria.com Gift Certificates Available would not be over residential Free Delivery homes, a claim that was received Open 7 days • 1514 Tremont St. MH 617-232-2705 critically from the community. PIZZERIA Halal www.lizshaircare.com

Learn more about our programs for youth and families at Mission Hill Health Movement Please Recycle www.sociedadlatina.org Working for a healthy Mission Hill since 1971 this Newspaper 1534 Tremont St., Mission Hill • 617-427-6919 1530 Tremont Street • Roxbury, MA 02120 • 617-442-4299 Working in partnership with Mission Hill youth and families since 1968 Good Health ~ Healthy Skin Preventing Skin Cancer

April 15, 2010 6:00 PM ~ 7:30 PM Parker Hill - Mission Hill Library ~ Lecture Hall 1497 Tremont Street Mission Hill, MA 02120

Summer is coming and what better time to learn about staying healthy, having healthy skin, and preventing skin cancer.

The statistics on skin cancer should make you grab screen and a hat before you head outdoors:

• Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States • Half of all new cancers in the United States are skin cancers. • One in five Americans will develop skin cancer.

Join Mission Hill Health Movement on April 15, 2010 for a discussion and presentation with Dermatologist Arturo P. Saavedra MD to learn what you can do to prevent skin cancer.

Join the Mission Hill Health Movement as we sponsor health information sessions and events on how we can stay healthy and prevent disease.

These sessions are for you, so please come with your ideas and questions, or contact Mission Hill Health Movement to tell us those health issues you want to know more about. 9

• FEBRUARY 5, 2021 9 Mission Hill Gazette • Mission Hill/Roxbury COVID-19 update

By John Lynds their loved ones. He reminded is still with us, and will be with everyone to wear a mask; social us for a while longer. But look Last week the overall distance; wash your hands with where we are -- one year later, COVID-19 positive test rate in soap and warm water; disinfect on February 1, 2021. Today, we’re Mission Hill/Roxbury decreased surfaces; and avoid gatherings.” moving forward with Phase 3, steadily throughout January and With Super Bowl Sunday com- Step 1 of reopening -- one step the neighborhood’s weekly test ing up next weekend, he asked closer to helping our economy rate is also down. everyone to refrain from gath- recover, and getting life back to According to the latest data ering with people outside your normal. We’re opening two vac- released by the Boston Public household. He also reminded cination sites: a mass vaccina- Health Commission (BPHC) of everyone to make testing a part tion site at Fenway Park, which the 38,390 Mission Hill/Roxbury of your routine. opens today, and soon, a vacci- residents tested for COVID-19 “We have over 30 testing sites nation clinic at the Reggie Lewis since the start of the pandemic, including mobile sites that are Center in Roxbury, which will 10.7 percent are COVID positive. free and open to all, regardless expand into a mass vaccination This was a 47 percent decrease of symptoms. Visit Boston.gov or site. Thousands of people have from the 20.5 percent that were call 3-1-1 for complete details,” received the COVID-19 vaccine found to be positive overall at the said Walsh. already, and we are working to end of December. . The Mayor ended his press make sure our most vulnerable Last week 1,949 residents briefing by recognizing that Feb- residents get vaccinated as soon were tested and 6.8 percent were ruary 1, marked one year since as possible. We also finally have positive - a 32 percent decrease the first case of COVID-19 was a partner and leader in Washing- from the 10 percent that had confirmed in Boston, and that ton who is committed to helping tested positive during the last none of us knew what to expect cities and states beat this virus. week of December. a year ago. We have begun the process of Citywide, ​34,780 residents “The pandemic has turned our healing. And we’re going to see Stats released by the Boston Public Health Commission (BPHC) were tested and 6.8 percent were city, and our world, upside down,” it through, together. Thank you, as part of its weekly COVID-19 report breaks down the number COVID positive--a 5.5 percent said Walsh. “Living with this again, to everyone for continuing of cases and infection rates in each neighborhood decrease from the 7.2 percent virus hasn’t been easy. It’s been to do your part, day in and out, to testing positive two weeks ago. especially hard for communities help us get through this crisis.” RESERVE At a press briefing Monday who have already faced deep, The Mission Hill/Roxbury YOUR Mayor Martin Walsh said while historic disparities in health and COVID-19 infection rate in- SEATING the numbers are moving in the economic outcomes. And we’ve all creased 45 percent throughout NOW right directions, residents still had to make sacrifices. But we’ve the month of January. need to remain vigilant. also seen countless examples of According to data released FOR THE “The average number of pos- Bostonians coming together. And last Friday by the Boston Public DINING ROOM itive tests each day was about that spirit helps us keep our Health Commission (BPHC) the 375, also down from the week chins up, when times are espe- COVID-19 infection rate jumped before,” said Mayor Walsh. “Our cially tough. We need that now Thai • Sushi • Pick-up • Delivery current community positivity more than ever, because the virus Continued on page 12 order.laughingmonkcafe.com or call 617.232.8000 rate was 6.8 percent. That is lower than the week before, and down 1.6 percentage points over Unique Times Require the last two weeks.” Creative Approaches The Mayor said that, through- out the pandemic, Boston has eat. play. live. taken a cautious approach to re- opening, and only moves forward with reopening if public health experts say it’s safe. MISSION HILL “In recent weeks, we’ve seen some improvement in our COVID numbers,” said Walsh. “That is MAIN STREETS why we are moving into Phase 3 Step 1 today (Monday). You can go to Boston.gov/Reopening to Celebrate Black History and find the list of businesses allowed to reopen.” Support Local Business! The Mayor also mentioned that, last week, the State moved Boston from “high risk” to “mod- Mission Hill Main Streets erate risk” on their map, which Josephine Tsui, Realtor® Boston, MA 02115 is encouraging news. However, [email protected] 617.816.6900 1542 Tremont Street Walsh warned that we must stay Corporate Buddy [email protected] (617) 232-0182 vigilant. “The numbers could change unlimitedsir.com Circle Members any time,” he said. “Every single Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, City of Boston Credit Union, Dana person has a role to play in keep- 673 Centre Street, Jamaica Plain Farber Cancer Center, Needham Bank, New England Baptist Hospital, ing these numbers down. Every- Northeastern University and Wentworth Institute of Technology. one can take actions on a daily basis to protect themselves and Exceptional client service and marketing at all price points. Each office is independently owned and operated. 10

10 • FEBRUARY 5, 2021 • Mission Hill Gazette BPS submits budget heavy on social-emotional help, addressing enrollment declines By Seth Daniel nity is most in need. As we move and gather feedback from our COVID-19, enrollments have sist into next fall. forward and recover from the families.” plummeted in BPS. No one is Cassellius did confirm that The Boston Public Schools pandemic, we remain committed One of the biggest worries has quite sure why, and no one knows there would be no new school (BPS) submitted its budget pro- to a safe return, opening access been the trauma and education- if it will continue. However, Kud- closures next year that aren’t posal to the School Committee and closing achievement gaps, al setbacks that students and er said they would be investing already planned. Wednesday night, and it was a and ensuring an excellent and their families might bring with $18.5 million into schools with Facilities also have a big part budget that included a $36 mil- equitable education for all stu- them when they return to school declining enrollment to make of the budget too, and an invest- lion increase in funding over last dents, particularly our students buildings for the first time in a sure they are not penalized for ment last year in custodial staff year in what is the second year most impacted this past year.” year. That is why Cassellius said the situation. has continued this year – but of a $100 million commitment CFO Nate Kuder said it is they hired 95 new full-time so- “The drop in enrollment is real this time it is more important made by Mayor Martin Walsh in unprecedented for a major school cial workers for the schools, and and significant,” he said. “We than ever due to the needs of January 2020. district to be expanding its bud- 80.5 new full-time multi-lingual don’t know what the future will COVID-19 and keeping buildings The budget submission is be- get in the times of COVID-19. He family liaisons. Already, last year, hold for enrollment. But we want safe. With that, an additional ing titled ‘Return, Recover and said Boston is really fortunate in the first year of the five-year students to return to school with $1.417 million has been invest- Re-Imagine,’ and focuses heavily that the City has continued its transformation plan, several so- the same programs and specials ed in adding more daytime cus- on health and wellness and the commitment of $36 million in cial workers and liaisons were like music and art – and with todians to the district’s school resources that are believed to be the second year when financial hired as well, and Cassellius said social workers and liaisons…We facilities. necessary once children return to times are so uncertain. their work has been critical to don’t know where it will be at There will be additional bud- school next fall with the weight “Boston stands alone in in- families and students over the next year. We don’t as a district get hearings for the community of COVID-19 still lingering even creasing financial investments pandemic. want to close capacity for some to participate in over the com- if the pandemic is over. into schools,” he said. One major funding piece that facilities and then a lot of new ing month. On Thursday, Feb. The overall budget is $1.29 One of the key measures is per still falls into uncertain waters families show up and we have to 11, there will be another budget billion and is the largest ap- pupil expenditures. This year, is how to deal with declining open capacity and quickly re-hire hearing online; and it will be propriation for the schools ever he said, that has gone up by enrollments due to the pandemic. teachers.” discussed again at the Feb. 24 made in the history of BPS. $1,700 per student to $23,500 Typically, schools are funded by Instead, they will invest that School Committee meeting also. “The COVID-19 pandemic has per student. the numbers of students they $18.5 million in making up for The School Committee Budget clearly exposed inequities that “I am thankful to Mayor have enrolled. However, during any enrollment declines that per- vote is expected on March 24. persisted for our students for far Walsh for his leadership and too long, and this recovery bud- commitment to increase funding get is centered on student ser- for critical services for our young Boston Public Library announces Teen Music Maker showdown vices and supports to immediate- people at a time when urban ly address concerns and promote municipalities and school dis- The Boston Public Library ard. “Youth engagement and ca- the Music Maker Showdown, the an equitable recovery,” said BPS tricts are experiencing dramatic announced it is partnering reer skills are both key pillars BPL and THHT will host profes- Superintendent, Brenda Cas- budget cuts and shortfalls,” said with The Hip Hop Transforma- of the library’s 2021 Repairing sional audio producer Lightfoot sellius. “This student-centered Boston School Committee Chair tion for the Teen Music Maker America initiative, and we look and rap titans Red Shaydez and and community-focused recov- Alexandra Oliver-Dávila. “I look Showdown: a musical event se- forward to supporting our state’s Flash (N.B.S.) to answer ques- ery budget proposal builds upon forward to engaging with our ries and statewide competition next generation of music artists.” tions and give teens real-time our investments made last year community throughout the bud- for teens. From February 5-25, “The Hip Hop Transforma- advice and encouragement on in student and family advance- get process to share information Massachusetts residents ages tion program is honored to team their submissions. The event will ment, at a time when our commu- about these critical investments 13-18 are encouraged to submit up with BPL Teens for the first be held on Zoom and participants self-produced music tracks to ever statewide music-maker are encouraged to join, regard- be evaluated by a panel of judg- showdown! This event provides less of experience level. es from The Hip-Hop Transfor- a platform for teens all over Mas- • Award Celebration, dvertising mation (THHT), ICA Teens, the sachusetts to have their music 3/5: Teens who submitted mu- line A Clubhouse Network, the BPL, creations heard,” said THHT’s sic, or are interested in working On and more. Three eligible winners Artist Development Director, in the music industry in general, will receive a commission oppor- Red Shaydez. “Not only will this are invited to join the award cel- vailable tunity to produce new music for be an opportunity for three up- ebration. The event will feature is A ACTUAL the library, along with Visa gift coming creators to have their a panel of industry judges who Showcase Your Business, Open AD SIZE cards. music placed, but it will also be will share submission clips and House, or More with an online The BPL and THHT will host a great networking opportunity announce the contest winners. It three events around the contest that could spawn future collab- will be held on the BPL Twitch ad! in pixels Clients and Customers featuring industry experts; a orations. We at THHT hope that channel. W: 160px kickoff, a music maker work- this showdown will be the first Teens interested in participat- are just a click away! H: 600px shop, and an award celebration. of many.” ing can email up to three origi- — $30000 per month per site — Through the Music Maker Show- The Teen Music Maker Show- nal music submissions to virtu- THE down, the BPL aims to support down will feature three events: [email protected] starting at in inches teens interested in showcasing • Event Kickoff, 2/5: Teens 4pm on February 5 through mid- INDEPENDENT W: 2.2222” their work, gaining professional are invited to join the BPL night on February 25. Contes- NEWSPAPERS H: 8.3333” experience, and connecting with and THHT expert profession- tants must be between the ages reverejournal.com •winthroptranscript.com lynnjournal.com • everettindependent.com leaders in the Boston music in- als Lightfoot and Flash (N.B.S.), of 13-18 and reside in Massachu- dustry. who will be giving helpful guide- setts. Winners will be awarded eastietimes.com • chelsearecord.com —————— charlestownbridge.com • beaconhilltimes.com “The BPL is thrilled to partner lines to artists as well as sharing Visa gift cards of up to $150 and northendregionalreview.com • thebostonsun.com with The Hip Hop Transforma- tracks from THHT alumni. The eligible contest winners will be jamaicaplaingazette.com • missionhillgazette.com please send tion to bring teens the opportu- event will be held on the BPL awarded a $100 commission op- Combo Rates available! in “png” nity to create and share their art, Twitch channel and will include portunity to create music for the Buy any 3 sites, get 4th FREE as well as advance their careers a Q&A for teens interested in BPL’s Twitch and Teen YouTube format Call the office to get started! and make connections in a com- participating. channels. For full submission 781-485-0588 petitive but exciting industry,” • Music Maker Workshop, guidelines please visit http://bit. said BPL President David Leon- 2/17: For teens participating in ly/TeenMusicMaker. 11

• FEBRUARY 5, 2021 11 Mission Hill Gazette • What’s Happening on Main Streets

By Ellen Walker team. The streets of Mission Hill Special to the Gazette are cleaned regularly and make our neighborhood more inviting! These days, the political field Thanks to recent requests from is going through so many chang- residents to 311, a more compre- es, however, it is the local change hensive approach to the Mission that has caught our attention. Hill spring-clean-up effort is be- Mayor Marty Walsh has nurtured ing developed. the main streets program and Any time there is a group of helped to grow this brainchild of Mission Hill residents gathered, his predecessor, over the years. their camaraderie is evident. It Julissa Garcia, Property His support and guidance have is amazing the number of times Jaquan Hines, Office Assistant Management with Longwood strengthened each of the dis- I hear a Mission Hill story such at RTH. Properties. tricts, and their directors. Thank as “I went to Farragut School, at- you, Mayor Walsh, with helping tended Mission Church, shopped was recognized. He and his wife able to help you!” (His full story us to promote our unique neigh- at Calumet Market, or had a are immensely proud parents of is on our website: www.mission- borhoods, engage in economic drink at the Puddingstone Pub” 27-month-old twins. He loves hillmainstreet.com) development for small business- when I meet people at social America so much as we helped As Winter continues around us es, promote the vibrancy of our gatherings or City agency meet- his country win the war in the and temperatures drop, many of districts and engage with our ings. On that note, here is a Naod Daniels, Weekend late 90’s and he is truly following us consider staying inside where communities and for all you have Mission Hill story that starts in Package Deliveries at RTH. the American Dream – family, it is warm with a great book, done for the City of Boston! Kosovo back in the 1990’s … work and home! movie or playing games with This past December, Mission Valdet Abazi dreamt of emi- Now with East Boston Sav- family and friends but keep in promoting winter walks, the view Hill Main Streets was the recip- grating from Kosovo to the U.S. to ings Bank, his heart is still with mind, it is a good time to explore from our neighborhood parks is ient of a grant directed at help- achieve the American dream. In Mission Hill and he loves his outdoors. The Emerald Necklace invigorating and inspiring and ing inner city youth learn new 2012, he recognized the first step new job stating, “East Boston Conservancy on the Fenway is skills by pairing them up with of his dream. When he arrived, Continued on page 12 Savings Bank is the best place local businesses in paying jobs, Valdet began studying English to work ever!” Recently, EBSB enabling them to learn differ- then took several jobs here in showed their ongoing support CHOOSE ANY TWO ent skills while being mentored Mission Hill. He worked for Pen- of MHMS programs through a by both small business owners guin Pizza, University House of • Homemade soup generous donation. Valdet also and community organizations. Pizza, and Il Mondo’s while get- • salad • Sandwich stated “during these difficult Working closely with Joel Wool ting his college education. He times with the pandemic, EBSB of the Boston Housing Authority was very well integrated into is helping small businesses who Try our soups and sandwiches along $ 75 and with the support of Repre- the Mission Hill neighborhood with the best coffee and donuts in town! are applying for PPP loans. So 5 sentative Nika Elugardo, MHMS while working to bring his family call or drop in to your local EBSB Now serving FREE Honey Dip Donut worked with eight different busi- over to America. Accepted at with $4.00 purchase branch for more details. Roxana gourmet nesses and organizations to pro- Northeastern University for the Lemus at the Mission Hill branch dark roast 1524 Tremont St. vide jobs ranging from property MBA program in 2017, anoth- at 1614 Tremont Street is avail- coffee (across from Mission Church) management, marketing, cus- er step in his American dream tomer service and more. Over 25 youth were employed in this pilot program including Julissa Angell is Open! Gazette Pet of the Week Garcia who worked in proper- Providing Essential by Sarah Carroll ty management for Longwood Veterinary Services Properties. Julissa commented JADE “I really enjoyed working in a Look at Jade’s floppy ears! This sweet, eight-month-old private business environment. I EMERGENCY SERVICES & URGENT CARE Boston & Waltham cattle dog mix came to the MSPCA after fracturing her right arm. It turns are open 24/7. Our primary care & specialty services are out that this little lady has wrist dysplasia, predisposing her to broken learned some things about how available for patients with non-life threatening but urgent the business operates.” John issues. 617-522-7282 bones and arthritis at a younger age. After surgery, Jade is feeling much Jackson, Administrative Coordi- better! She loves to cuddle up close, play with squeaky toys, and eat nator at Tobin Community Cen- ON SITE SPECIALTY CONSULTS & TELEMEDICINE Most of snacks. She’s a little nervous around new people and in new situations, so Angell’s specialists are available to consult on your pet’s case ter stated, “the program served she’s looking for an adopter to act as her advocate in this scary world! She while your pet is at Angell or to facilitate phone or video would do best in a home without other dogs but as a way for young people to take appointments. Visit angell.org. would enjoy having dog friends once her arm benefit from gainful employment has fully healed. She can live with teenagers and opportunities in their communi- PHARMACY Prescriptions for Angell patients are available by curbside pick-up or mail (shipping fees apply). cats. If you’re looking for a timid, affectionate ty.” Karen Gately, Executive Submit prescription requests at angell.org/pharmacy or friend to snuggle up with as the days grow short- Director of Roxbury Tenants of call 617-524-5700. er and the weather gets chillier, Jade is your girl! Harvard added “this program has made a difference on many levels REFERRAL SERVICES We are now welcoming a limited number of referral cases in Boston & Waltham. Email [email protected] to inquire about and provided the option for young this lovely lady! people to be part of the solution.” For more information, please visit angell.org/COVID (617) 522-5055 MHMS would like to thank all for or call 617-522-7282. www.mspca.org their participation and support For more information about of this project and for working Jade and or other animals in Sponsored by: with us on such an important need of adoption, please contact: program. Sarah Carroll, realtor The Residential Group ® In addition, we would like to angell.org at William Raveis Real Estate thank Robert Lewis of the De- Angell Animal Medical Center | 350 S. Huntington Ave, Boston | 617-522-7282 16 Clarendon St., Boston MA 02116 MSPCA-Angell West | 293 Second Ave, Waltham | 781-902-8400 781-820-0280 or partment of Public Works and his 350 South Hungtington Avenue [email protected] 12 • FEBRUARY 5, 2021 • Mission Hill Gazette Governor, Education Secretary say not to wait for vaccine to return to school By Seth Daniel ing the most – creating develop- studies showing rates for stu- prioritize them for the vaccine in is especially challenging during mental losses and exacerbating dents who are in school are lower the Phase 2 of the vaccine plan.” this time, many schools have Counter to the sentiment in achievement gaps. For these than for kids that are learning at He said there is no evidence to found a way to get it done. Rely- some places, State Education reasons we need to open up our home,” he continued. suggest those working in schools ing on state guidance, as well as Secretary Jim Peyser told a classrooms for as many children Returning to school, he said, are at a higher risk based on the federal and state funding, many group of educators last Friday as possible as soon as possible.” should not be a monetary issue. numbers from those returning to special education programs, ear- that all school districts should Peyser said that the rollout of He said the CARES Act origi- in-person learning. ly education providers and some make it a goal to get students COVID-19 education has shown nally funded $200 million in the As a consequence of an all-re- school districts have been able to back in school, even before a remarkable foresight, innova- state for schools, and Gov. Bak- mote year, Peyser said they are make in person education work COVID-19 vaccine is available tion, caring and planning. How- er added another $200 million prioritizing summer learning safely since the fall.” to teachers. ever, he said all-remote schooling of that for schools returning to Peyser was featured as a in underserved communities has in-person education. programs in cities like Everett. He used the example of paro- keynote speaker at the Rennie not been a highlight. Of that, $170 million has yet to They will be known as Accelera- chial schools in the state, which Center’s program last Friday He said these gaps and the be drawn down by school districts tion Academies and will provide have largely been open since last for innovation in education. Of limitations of all-remote school- to be used to return kids to school. catch-up – likely in person – fall for in-person learning. He course, top on everyone’s mind ing are reason enough to get back He said there is also another education for students who are said 45,000 kids have been at- was about schooling and getting into the classroom. $734 million in school-district struggling and have struggled tending school in-person since kids in school. “It doesn’t mean everything funding on the way to Massa- through a remote education year. mid-August. Peyser said all studies show has gone smoothly or that there chusetts as part of the December “This is not a one and done “To encourage more public it’s safe to return to school, and haven’t been significant gaps and federal Stimulus plan. challenge,” he said. “For many school districts to reopen their he said the education gaps that setbacks especially in regard to He said there is plenty of mon- students it will take years of this classrooms, we’ve been working are growing, particularly in student learning and develop- ey available or coming to districts effort to get back on track.” with a number of lab partners all-remote, low income commu- ment and particularly in those that would allow costs not to His comments were preceded to develop a weekly Covid test- nities like Boston, should be the communities that have been pro- be a barrier to returning to the by a strong call from Gov. Char- ing program for kids, teachers viding mostly remote instruction classroom. top thing on everyone’s minds. lie Baker for kids to return to and staff,” he said. “The goal is “Let me be clear, we do not throughout most of the school He also touched on the touchy schools during his State of the to get as many kids as possible think schools should wait for year so far,” he said. subject of testing and vaccina- State Address on Jan. 26. back in the classroom as soon as testing or vaccines to be deployed “There is an ever growing body tions for teachers, noting they “Study after study makes clear possible. This first-in-the-nation before bringing their students of evidence and first-hand experi- are deemed essential workers, back into classrooms for in-per- ence here in Massachusetts and but would not be moved up in the that kids need to be in school,” he Covid testing program will help son instruction,” he said. “As you across the country and the world Phase 2 plan already outlined. said. “Their educational and emo- more school districts make the all know this issue isn’t only that schools are safe spaces for “We are rolling out a first in tional development depends on call to offer full time, in person about COVID. It’s about educa- children and adults when the the nation statewide testing pro- it. And while in person learning instruction now.” tional progress, mental health, standard health safety protocols gram for students and staff to social-emotional development are followed. provide for even more support for and equity. Our children, es- “Even in communities with instruction,” he said. “The Gover- COVID19 report breaks down pecially those in traditionally higher level of COVID cases, nor has dedicated those working COVID the number of cases and infection there is little or no evidence of in in early education and schools underserved communities and Continued from page 9 rates in each neighborhood. It high-needs students, are suffer- school transmission with various as essential workers in order to also breaks down the number of from 648.7 cases per 10,000 resi- cases by age, gender and race. dents to an infection rate of 941.1 Citywide positive cases of coro- Main Streets and Trillfit offer virtual classes. and wash your hands. cases per 10,000 residents during navirus increased 4.9 percent So whether you chose to connect “Spring passes and one remem- the month. percent last week and went from Continued from page 11 through facetime, Zoom and oth- bers one’s innocence. Summer A total of 1,261 Mission Hill/ 51,506 cases to 54,065 confirmed Roxbury residents became in- the Mission Hill Farmers Market er social media apps or get out passes and one remembers one’s cases in a week. Thirty-four addi- fected with the virus throughout can be found most Saturday’s at to experience our neighborhood, exuberance. Autumn passes and tional Boston residents died from January and the number of cases Roxbury Crossing after 11:00am. do connect, share, and enjoy your one remembers one’s reverence. the virus last week and there are increased from 2,798 to 4,059. For those who want to remain time together – indoors and out. Winter passes and one remembers now 1,167 total deaths in the city The statistics released by indoors, both Mission Hill Yoga Until next month, please be one’s perseverance.” Yoko Ono from COVID. safe, practice social distancing the BPHC as part of its weekly Î Business Bulletin Board Î THERAPYPLUMBING GROUP ELECTRICIANPLUMBING EXTERMINATING Boston social therapy Group John’s Electrical Contracting DuDley exterminating Co. Evelyn Dougherty, LICSW arem Plumbing Bed Bugs, Roaches,Advertise Rats, Ants, Your Fleas, Mice, Ticks, Karem Plumbing K Plumbing, heatingComplete &Electrical gas work Service Plumbing,Experience the powerheating of group! & gas work Residential & Commercial Termites, Wildlife Short-term Individual and Couples Therapy No job too small Business Here! No job too small Free estimates Fully FreeLicensed estimates & Insured John T. Bowen • Est. 1939 617-799-4601 (617) 361-6532617-983-8800 • www.bostonstg.comLicensed & Insured (617) 361-6532 Licensed & Insured MA. License 20754/Insured • Locally Owned 617-477-3712 • 617-438-1892 (cell) www.dudleyexterminating.com Member Better JamaicaBusiness Plain,Bureau MA 02130 Mass lic # 9290 Member Better Business Bureau Mass lic # 9290 For More Information Call: PLUMBING AND HEATING/GAS ROOF REPAIR 617-524-7662 HANDYMAN ROOF REPAIR Advertise Your Business Here! ACE HANDYMAN or email: 617-364-2200 ROOF522)/($.,1*" LEAKING? For More Information Gutter cleaning, fences, sheetrock, roof leaks, brick pointing, • Emergency ‡(PHUJHQF\/HDN5HSDLULeak Repair 24/7 • Ice & Snow Removal www.mcmahonplumbing.com • Emergency Leak‡,FH 6QRZ5HPRYDO Repair 24/7 • Ice & Snow Removal [email protected] carpet inst. & removal, masonry, carpentry, painting, & odd jobs. Asphault Shingles • Rubber‡$VSKDOW6KLQJOHV Roof Systems • Flat Roof of all kinds Call: 617-524-2626 Asphault• Gutters Shingles - Downspouts • Rubber‡5XEEHU5RRI6\VWHPV Roof• Chimney Systems - Dormers • Flat Roof - Skylights of all kinds Small moving jobs available. Fast & reasonable. • Gutters - Downspouts‡)ODW5RRIRIDOONLQGV • Chimney - Dormers - Skylights (617) 888-8058‡*XWWHUV'RZQVSRXWV'UDLQVFree Estimates or email: [email protected] (617) 888-8058‡&KLPQH\'RUPHUV6N\OLJKWVFree Estimates Drain Cleaning Specialists Licenced Senior & Vets 20% Discount Family owned & operated • 28 years in business Insured Call Phil at 617-868-1578 • 857-312-0543 (cell) Licenced Senior & Vets 20%   Discount Family owned & operated • 28 years in business Insured 6HQLRU 9HWV'LVFRXQW Da[]fk]\ )UHH(VWLPDWHV Afkmj]\ )DPLO\RZQHG RSHUDWHG‡\HDUVLQEXVLQHVV • FEBRUARY 5, 2021 13 Mission Hill Gazette • Super Sunday: No Super Bowl team, no problem

By Seth Daniel ball, which is also ranked – Bos- the country. Other reasons why In order to determine the best Finally, they determined each ton has come out in the top part Boston ranks so high include fan and worst cities for football fans, city’s weighted average across The New England Patriots of the list for years. Even with engagement, attendance, popu- WalletHub compared 245 U.S. all metrics to calculate its over- might not be front and center this some of the magic missing, this larity, and the fact that they’ve cities based on 21 relevant met- all score and used the resulting year, and maybe our quarterback year Boston landed and #3 for the had the same coach for the past rics. Each metric was graded on scores to rank-order our sample. is wintering in Florida this time best football town. ten seasons.” a 100-point scale, with a score of Due to the impact of the coro- around, but Boston still ranks “Boston is the third best This year, Boston ranked only 100 representing the most favor- navirus pandemic on the NCAA as the third best city for football football city for fans,” said Wal- behind Pittsburgh and Dallas, able conditions for football fans. schedule for the 2019-2020 sea- fans this season, according to letHub Analyst Jill Gonzalez. and Pittsburgh ended up on top For their sample, they chose son, for some metrics we consid- the annual Super Bowl rankings “The Patriots’ performance lev- mostly because it has a much cities with at least one profes- ered the values up to the 2018- done by WalletHub. el is the sixth highest among higher following of college foot- sional football team (NFL) or at 2019 season. This helps to ensure Every year, the company does NFL teams, and they’ve won six ball than Boston. least one college football team a level comparison field among an analysis based on several met- NFL Championships, topping all Dallas, of course, is Dallas. (NCAA, including FBS and FCS). the teams. rics about which city has the best the other teams. They also have The numbers were as follows: They grouped the cities by divi- Interestingly, Boston also tied football fans. Naturally, with the 21 division championship wins, •Pittsburgh – 62.61 sion — “Pro Football” and “Col- Las Vegas and San Francisco for Patriots on top – and despite a the fourth most, and the sec- •Dallas – 55.55 lege Football” — and assigned the most expensive ticket prices meager following of college foot- ond highest franchise value in •Boston – 54.19 weights to each divisional cat- for a football game. •New York City – 49.88 egory based on its popularity •Miami, FL – 48.61 among fans. Let’s do you have Make 2021 a Bell Better Continued from page 16 Year! Bell is talking about organiz- ing individuals to create what he calls Civic Engagement Leader- 2021 ship Labs, or CELLs. With those, vision2020for your business he hopes that groups of people can organize one another to get involved in local issues, civic Your Year matters and neighborhood-level problems. In addition to that, he Your Cost is also using his platform as a 1 Option JOIN local member of the Black News 2021 AD CAMPAIGN Network and Black Praise Radio 52 WEEKS – where one might find he and Jan. — Dec. 2021 Pastor Bruce Wall, of Dorches- Business Card Size ter, interviewing candidates or At a gathering at his home last summer, Bell brought together 3.37” by 2” high ONE FULL YEAR of advertising bringing to light civic issues af- activists and Black leaders from across the region. He is hoping $ fecting the city on their program. for only 2,021 to bring them all into the fold of his newest effort. per paper Last year, he and Wall were able 2 First Row: (L-R): Aaron Hebron, Ron Bell (seated), and Lysah to do a number of forums with Option THE REVERE JOURNAL | THE EVERETT INDEPENDENT Hebron. THE WINTHROP TRANSCRIPT | THE LYNN JOURNAL candidates, most importantly THE EAST BOSTON TIMES | THE CHELSEA RECORD with Sen. Ed Markey and Chal- 26 WEEKS THE BOSTON SUN | THE CHARLESTOWN PATRIOT BRIDGE lenger Joe Kennedy III. The opinions expressed on these pages are not necessarily those of this newspaper. 2col x 3 in. BEACON HILL TIMES | NORTH END REGIONAL REVIEW JAMAICA PLAIN GAZETTE | MISSION HILL GAZETTE All of it rolls into an effort that 3.37” by 3” high Bell said he hopes will start in Mission Hill Choose from any 3 Options for an insightful Mission Hill and fan out to the COLOR year of news, sports, and social gatherings rest of the city with new energy. 2 ADS/MONTH from your Hometown Newspaper At the moment, he’s planning a G a z e t t e 50 2 Payments of $1,010 Dunk the Vote meet and greet Circulation 7,000 Published 12 times a year in Jamaica Plain by Independent Newspaper Group 3 First due Jan. 31, 2020 for the fall if COVID-19 allows it. Option Second due June 31, 2020 Beyond that, he said he’s build- Patricia DeOliveira Sandra Storey We accept all major Credit Cards Advertising Manager Founder/Publisher Emerita 1993-2011 ing momentum on the streets, With options to change Publications on each run Seth Daniel , Reporter Lauren Bennett, Reporter on TV and online, one person at [email protected] [email protected] a time. “We can have a moment right ©Independent Newspaper Group 1 AD/MONTH now or a movement,” he said. Stephen Quigley, President [email protected] 2col x 5 in. “In the spirit of Black History Debra DiGregorio, Director of Marketing [email protected] DON’T WAIT! Month, let’s make the ‘We Shall 3.37” by 5” high Call your Ad Rep at The Mission Hill Gazette is delivered free businesses and organizations in the neighborhood 12 times Overcome’ song into ‘We Have a year on Friday and Saturday. It is free in stores. COLOR Independent Newspaper Group will not assume financial responsibility for typographical errors in Overcome.’ I’m tired of conver- advertisements. Questions or complaints regarding advertising must be sent in writing to the billing de- sations as a Black man growing partment within seven days of publication in order for adjustments to be made to the account. We reserve up in Boston. We’ve had conver- the right to use our discretion in accepting or rejecting advertising copy. Telephone: (617) 524-2626 • Fax: (617) 524-3921 sations. Let’s have some action. 7 Harris Avenue, Jamaica Plain, MA 02130 I’m excited and I feel like I’m 38 JamaicaPlainGazette.com years old again.” 14 • FEBRUARY 5, 2021 • Mission Hill Gazette Editorial Minimum wage should be at $15

In 1971, the minimum wage across the United States, as mandated by federal law, was $1.60. Today, the federal minimum stands at $7.25. One might look at those two numbers and think that because the minimum wage has increased by more than four-fold in the past 50 years, America’s lowest-paid workers are doing alright compared to their grandparents. But the reality is far different. In fact, had the federal minimum wage kept pace with workers’ productivity in the past five decades, the inflation-adjusted minimum wage would be $24 an hour. The reality of the $7.25 minimum wage, which has been at that level since 2009, is that a person working a full-time job at the minimum wage officially falls below the national poverty level, a reality that would be laughably absurd if it were not so harmful to millions of Americans. Op-Ed President Joe Biden has proposed increasing the minimum wage across the country to $15.00 by 2024, essentially bringing it into line Thank You, Boston with Massachusetts and a few other states that already are near or By Mayor Martin J. Walsh answered the call, day after day. as our own and commit to fight- at that level. (The minimum wage in Massachusetts presently stands Residents stepped up to help each ing racism. It’s our deepest moral at $13.50 and will increase incrementally here and in seven other On January 12, I held my fi- other in a thousand different ways. obligation – and it’s our greatest states to $15.00 within the next two years.) nal State of the City, which was The heroes are all around us. opportunity for growth. Raising the federal minimum wage to $15 an hour by 2025 would broadcast live from Boston’s new- As a City, we came together. We We have tough days ahead of raise wages of up to 27.3 million workers -- almost 20 percent of est civic treasure, the complete- built a field hospital in five days. us. But we’ve been knocked down American workers -- and lift 1.3 million families out of poverty, ly rebuilt Roxbury branch of the We created a Health Inequities before, and we always get back up. according to a report by the Congressional Budget Office. Boston Public Library in Nubian Task Force to address health dis- In 2021, Boston will rise up again. Some on the political spectrum speak exultingly about the dignity Square. parities across race and ethnicity. We will leave no one behind, and of work. 2020 was a tough year. 2021 We’ve provided over six million our city will be stronger than ever. But they ignore the other side of the equation, which is that it is is a year for healing as we keep meals to children, families, vet- As you might know, Pres- below the dignity of anyone to work for wages that amount to not each other safe; get through this erans, and seniors. We got 40,000 ident-elect Joe Biden and Vice much better than slave labor. final stretch of the pandemic; and laptops to students. We got per- President-elect Kamala Harris The time has come to raise the minimum wage and yes, to Make build a recovery that moves all our manent rental vouchers to over have nominated me to be Labor America Great Again -- for everybody. neighborhoods forward. 1,000 families with children at Secretary in their administration. Since the COVID-19 pandemic risk of homelessness. And, we cre- I have accepted this honor. If con- began, we have lost 1,077 Bos- ated the Boston Resiliency Fund, firmed by the US Senate, I’m not Oregon leads the way tonians to COVID-19. They are providing over $30 million to help going to Washington alone. I’m loved and missed and their fami- 250,000 households in need. And bringing Boston with me. This on drugs lies are in my heart. COVID has in 2020, despite the pandemic, city is not just my hometown, affected all of us and it has hit we approved $8.5 billion of new it’s my heart. I believe in Boston. For more than 50 years, America has been fighting the “war on some harder than others. Black, investment in our city, creating a This is the city that welcomed my drugs,” an endeavor that began under the administration of Pres- Latino, and immigrant commu- potential 35,000 new jobs. immigrant parents. This is the city ident Richard M. Nixon, who had the avowed purpose of arresting nities faced the biggest impacts. In 2021, we will continue that that picked me up when I needed and incarcerating as many Blacks and other minorities as possible, Inequities in health, housing, and work. One of our next priorities is a second chance. This is the city especially for simple possession of marijuana. work opportunities caused more getting students safely back into where I fought side by side with The war on drugs has been a failure by any measure. Not only have illness and job loss in these com- Boston Public Schools. We will also you for marriage equality, immi- we spent hundreds of billions of dollars on failed law enforcement munities. Older Bostonians and continue to support small busi- grant rights, addiction treatment, efforts both in this country and around the globe, directly leading those with disabilities face the nesses, renters and homeowners, criminal justice reform, education to the destabilization of many nations that has had profound effects highest risk and the most isola- and those in recovery; push even funding, and good middle-class both for those countries and ours, but it is fair to say that the drug tion. Most students have been further towards meeting our cli- jobs. war has destroyed the lives of more individuals, families, and com- out of classrooms since March, mate goals; and invest in Boston’s Every minute of every day in munities than the drugs themselves. and families have struggled with parks and civic spaces that give this job, I spent listening to you, Thanks to the war on drugs, the prison population in the United childcare. our residents more opportunities learning from you, working with States exceeds every other nation on earth, both in terms of sheer While 2020 was a year of strug- to come together, safely. you and working for you. I will numbers and based on population. gle, it was also a year that brought We also need to address all never forget it, and I will forever At long last, after 50 years of fruitless and costly failure, things out the best in our city. We saw the ways systemic racism hurts be grateful. We may be hurting are about to change. nurses, doctors, and medical staff people in our city. The urgency of now, but the state of our city is Voters in the State of Oregon recently approved a ballot ques- gearing up and going into battle this work has never been more resilient; the state of our city is tion that decriminalizes the possession of illegal drugs. Instead of to save lives and provide comfort. clear. Last summer, George Floyd’s united; the state of our city is throwing people in jail, the state will view drug use as a health issue, We saw EMTs on the frontlines murder sparked a long-overdue hopeful; and the state of our city offering addicts treatment instead of prison time. of a pandemic, helping over 4,000 reckoning with racism. I thank is deep-down Boston strong. In Portugal, this approach has been used for 20 years. The re- COVID-19 patients. Firefighters Black Bostonians for the way you Boston, thank you. sult has been stunning. Drug overdose deaths and HIV and other brought recovery coaches to calls, made your voices heard. And I drug-related infections have decreased dramatically. In addition, the to help those struggling with ad- thank everyone who joined the Mayor Martin Walsh is the cur- removal of criminal penalties did NOT increase the rate of drug use. diction. Police officers took 800 movement — Black, white, Lati- rent Mayor of Boston and has been The time has come for our society to acknowledge that the war on guns off the street, keeping us no, Asian, and indigenous peoples nominated for President Joseph drugs, which was based on racism to begin with, must come to an end. safe no matter the risk. Essen- standing together. I’m asking all Biden’s cabinet as Secretary of Oregon is leading the way -- and change is coming none too soon. tial workers and City employees of us to accept this responsibility Labor. • FEBRUARY 5, 2021 15 Mission Hill Gazette • Reggie Lewis in Black and brown communities when it came to the effects of Continued from page 1 COVID-19. Walsh announces new ZBA tracker for Mission Hill organizations “This is a chance for us to play By John Lynds the status of the appeal. the ZBA for a zoning hearing. and even health food expos has a part in erasing that disparity “Increasing access to the work- The project at 1580 Tremont definitely made an improbable and that’s also a big part of the For the past decade Boston ings of municipal government is ST Mission Hill is seeking to turn in becoming a sought-after overall solution,” she said. has experienced a development important for our residents to change the occupancy from a vaccination spot that accompa- That has been challenging boom that can be hard to keep have access to resources about three to a four family by adding a nies the state-run Fenway Park in the first week of operations track of for the average resident. the city’s role in the development fourth apartment and extending mass vaccination site – right now though, as most observers have Unless you attend community and livelihood of our residents,” the living space into the base- with both of those sites open only noted that appointments at the group meetings regularly held said Walsh. “The Zoning Board ment. Then a project at 196--198 for those 75 and older. Reggie Lewis site have been for each month in the neighborhood of Appeals’ online tracker will Parker Hill Ave. seeks to erect a Vaccinations began at the Reg- mostly white senior citizens from it can be difficult to keep abreast increase our city’s transparency multifamily dwelling on the lots. gie Lewis on Tuesday and Marti- around the city and not so much of development projects in Mis- and our residents’ understand- Finally the project at 117 Heath nez said they would have a goal people of color from Mission Hill sion Hill Until now. ing of our neighborhoods.” St. involves excavation of a stor- or Roxbury. of 1,200 shots administered per Mayor Martin Walsh an- The Mission Hill Gazette took age yard to house construction Mission Hill native Ron Bell, a week at the outset. nounced a new Zoning Board a look at the new, easy to use equipment including excavators, roving reporter for Boston Praise of Appeal (ZBA) project track- “That’s how we’ll start and the ZBA Tracker Monday. The new backhoes, dump trucks, as well Radio and founder of Dunk the er that will allow residents to state will take over eventually feature allows viewers to use an as miscellaneous aggregates re- and then it will increase in the Vote, said he was disappointed gather information about ongo- interactive map of Mission Hill lated to street utility site work number of doses per week to with the rollout of the vaccina- ing projects. or other Boston neighborhoods around the city. The project also about 2,500 later in the month tion effort at Reggie Lewis, but The new online tool that to view projects seeking relief or calls for the addition of employee and next month,” he said. didn’t know exactly why it has can be found at https://ex- by typing in the address which vehicle parking during the day. There are about 40 volunteers gone that way. He said he plans perience.arcgis.com/experi- provides the following additional “This newly developed tool that are needed to run the facili- to use the platform he has to ence/c019ba9a25cb4f33bb- details for each proposed proj- will further Mayor Walsh’s com- ty, he said, and they are tapping raise the issue up and try to get 6cdd2f69b543d4/page/page_0/ into volunteers and Boston Pub- information and appointments fulfills the requirements set forth ect: The status of the appeal; mitment to increase transpar- lic Health Commission (BPHC) for those who live in Mission Hill in Mayor Walsh’s Executive Or- Community process; Date and ency to department processes employees as well. Basically, and Roxbury. der Relative to the Zoning Board location of an appeal application; and community development,” anyone who has given a vacci- “When I saw what has hap- of Appeal. Hearing scheduled; Address of said Inspectional Services Com- nation in their professional lives pened at the Reggie Lewis Cen- Walsh said this new tool will the proposed project; Status of missioner Dion Irish. “ISD will is called on for help in getting the ter, it just bothers me,” he said. increase access to information project; Deferral date; Hearing continue to create digital tools site rolling with staff. “That’s what I’m going to be do- related to proposed projects result; Application numbers; that will provide real time infor- “We are tapping into the Medi- ing with my organizing. I’ve done seeking relief from the ZBA. The Zoning district; Contact infor- mation related to permits.” cal Reserve Corps,” he said. “Peo- a lot of voter registration issues tracker is designed for anyone to mation; Appeal type; and Date All permits issued after Jan- ple can sign up for that and they with Dunk the Vote, but we start quickly search for a specific ap- of submission. uary 1, 2021 will display a QR get checked and then approved. with our health and the inequity. peal that has been submitted to For example there are three Code which will allow passersby We’re using volunteers and City I can’t believe that Black people the ZBA, or to search for appeals projects currently going through to access detailed information of volunteers and BPHC and our aren’t going there or maybe it’s based on criteria such as location the community process in Mis- the property in question on their own clinical staff – everybody we because the Internet or maybe or applicant, in order to identify sion Hill before appearing before smartphone. can find so we can get this set up they don’t have transportation. and operational.” The trust issue is a major thing Roxbury Community College and they have every right to National Grid launches ‘Grid for Good’ President Valerie Roberson said not trust. Whatever it is, it’s not they would have never believed good. I want to use my platform National Grid recently in the US have committed to 12,000 hours of volunteering in their facility would have been to deal with this issue. I hope I launched Grid for Good, a new providing over 100 paid, two- 2021. Grid for Good will also help used for such a purpose, but they can give people the information initiative designed to increase week job shadowing experiences bring diversity into the energy are glad to partner with the City and they can make their own the social mobility and employ- for participants. National Grid sector with qualified talent to to help bring a solution to the decision, pro or con, but at least ment opportunities for disad- will connect participants with help achieve the net zero am- Mission Hill and Greater Rox- they will know.” vantaged young people in the job opportunities in the energy bition. Unemployment amongst bury community. Martinez said the effort at communities they serve in the industry, driven by charity part- young people is an existing is- “I think when the vaccine be- Reggie Lewis will start small, US and UK. This program is part ners MissionSAFE and YOU sue, that has doubled since the came available, and people began and will be convenient for a lot of their Responsible Business Boston. Covid-19 pandemic. Now more to start working out access to of people, but would also not Charter, which lays out the Com- Through the Grid for Good than ever, National Grid wants it, few would have thought the be as large and intimidating as pany’s commitments to the envi- program, National Grid plans to support its communities with Reggie Lewis would have a role,” Fenway Park might be. ronment, employees, customers, to help 4,000 young people via Grid for Good. she said. “A lot of people, though, “It’s an opportunity to get peo- and communities. have been there for events and ple in and out,” he said. “It’s not Through the Grid for Good Marty Martinez reached out to inconvenient or Fenway Park.” program, National Grid employ- us and asked us to consider it. It Once one secures an appoint- ee volunteers work with young really gives us a way to be part of ment by day and time, they show people aged 16-24 and teach the solution – a solution for our up and are screened for symp- them basic business skills and CLASSIFIED INFO students because the vaccine will toms. After registering, they go energy industry-specific skills lassifieds enable people to return to school into the gym area to a vaccina- needed in today’s competitive C Rate: $14 buys 10 words, including and have students in person. tion station and receive the shot. job market. The program pro- a bold heading: 25 cents for each After that, they are taken to a [email protected] We are proud to be part of this vides team building workshops additional word. Deadline: 3 PM on waiting area where they sit in 617-524-2626 process.” to build participants’ confidence the Monday before publication date. a socially-distanced space for 15 Fax your ad to 617-524-3921 or mail it One of the key reasons to lo- and collaboration skills with cate a mass vaccination site in minutes. On the way out, they SERVICES to Gazette Publications, Inc., PO. Box problem solving exercises; along Mission Hill for Martinez and book their second appointment 301119, JP, MA 02130. Or e-mail it with activities to focus on resume David at kNurd on Kall : com can Roberson was to have such a fa- for about two or three weeks to classifieds@JamaicaPlainGazette. writing, interview techniques, help with PC computers, net- miliar facility in the community later. com. For more info. call 617-524-2626. and workplace conflict resolu- works, audio/video/multimedia, available to people of color and The Reggie Lewis site will phone solutions. $Reasonable$. Press 5, then press 3. tion. those living nearby. That was a eventually merge into a City/ House calls. 617-676-5676 or 617- The Gazette accepts all major National Grid employees way to eliminate the disparities State effort later in February. 522-6090 credit cards. 16 • FEBRUARY 5, 2021 • Mission Hill Gazette After national efforts, Ron Bell plans to return to Mission Hill

By Seth Daniel Mission Hill Community Center Community Center,” he said. nity Center and just about every- in the 1990s – watching as black “Last summer gave me a flash- where else to search for weapons Some two decades ago, in the men outside that window were back to that, me being the direc- and clues. Later, the Stuart scam hot, late summer afternoons that being strip searched for no good tor there at the time. When I get was uncovered – with him having are typical of Boston, one could reason and having their Civil back to working there again, my killed his wife in an attempt to routinely find Mission Hill native Rights violated 10 different ways work is going to be very serious collect insurance money – and and Dunk the Vote founder Ron due to the frenzy within the 1989 because you can’t put a Band-Aid Charles Stuart jumped off the Bell canvassing the ins and outs Charles Stuart murder case. It on racism. When you try to, it Tobin Bridge to his death. of Mission Park – knocking on was why he first started Dunk festers. George Floyd brought me Back then, in the wake of that, doors in the Alice Taylor Devel- the Vote. back to the Stuart case and what the answer was to get more peo- opment – and handing out voter In that rush of memories, Bell, happened there and why I orig- ple in Mission Hill voting and registration cards on Tremont now 56, said he knew he needed inally started Dunk the Vote.” involved in the civic process to Street. to get back to his roots and start The Charles Stuart case was prevent rights from being tram- People often looked at him like working in Mission Hill and Rox- a blight on the City and the re- pled on. That message worked he was crazy, but they bought the bury again. gion in 1989. Stuart, of Revere, well and expanded. And today, concept and knew he had credi- Mission Hill native Ron Bell “In 2021, I’m coming back faked an attack on himself and it has become very appropriate bility. So, those efforts brought said he plans to return his to Mission Hill,” Bell said this his pregnant wife in Mission Hill once again – and the place to in new voters by the dozens, and organizing and activism to week. “I’m coming back with the near Mission Park after leaving re-start, he said, was where he it was a credit to hard work and the neighborhood where he message of promoting civic en- Brigham & Women’s Hospital. started. sweat equity. started his work and grew up, gagement. Dunk the Vote has de- Though he actually shot his Bell grew up on Francis Street Since those early days, Dunk Mission Hill. clared civic engagement a public wife and killed her, then turned and in other areas of the neigh- the Vote went national and had health emergency.” the gun and shot himself with a borhood. His mother joined the a huge revival in 2020 in eight Bell said he cannot forget what non-fatal blow – he told police fight in helping to establish Rox- states across the United States – some heavy reflection – when happened in 1989 in Mission it was Black men from the area bury Tenants of Harvard (RTH) driving people all over the coun- he watched George Floyd being Hill, and the current movement that had stopped them and tried in the neighborhood. They were try to register for the November murdered on video by a police for a more racially just society in to rob them. That set off a flurry one of the first to move back 2020 election and using the love officer in Minneapolis. That re- Boston and beyond has brought of police activity, and virtually in. Bell attended Boston Latin of basketball as a platform to get flection only went deeper as more him full circle. every Black male in the neigh- School and used basketball as them to vote. issues came up. “I was there watching in 1989 borhood seemed to be a suspect. a catapult to college at Cheney However, during the frenzy of And soon enough, he was tak- looking at the window as Black Police made many young Black State and then Bentley. last year’s efforts, Bell said he en right back to the seat he used men and young people were strip men take their pants down on had to pause and sit down – do to sit in as the director of the searched right in front of the the street, in front of the Commu- Continued on page 13

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