MARCH 2012 FREE

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serving the Fenway, Kenmore square, upper BacK Bay, prudential, longwood area & mission hill since 1974 volume 38, numBer 3 march 2-29, 2012

Photo: Patrick oconnor

Fenway High Girls Wear City Hoops Crown

protestors at rally, hearing express anger, hear mayor attack t Fare plan

desperate need of a dedicated revenue source and immediate action is needed to identify n Monday, February 13, hundreds sustainable funding for the MBTA. Menino braved cold weather to meet at said that he has long supported efforts to Copley Square to demonstrate against the MBTAs proposed plans increase the states gas tax and is very willing to discuss other revenue options as well. to cut services and increase fares throughout He also hopes the legislature will consider the MBTA system. The increases and route eliminations would cause severe hardships for measures that may relieve some of the Big Dig-related debt load that has been unfairly seniors, students, riders with disabilities and loaded on the MBTA. low-income riders. They would discourage The bottom line is we need to flood ridership, damage the environment, and harm Governor Deval Patrick and all five members the economyand they wouldnt fix the of the MBTA Board (who plan to vote on the underlying problem. In 2000, the legislature proposals in April; they would take effect on saddled the T with debt from the Big Dig and July 1). The plan proposes to: no way to pay for it. Thats the issue driving 1. commuter rail: End service on weekends this crisis, and it needs to be addressed and late nights. immediately. Cheers to the Fenway High girls basketball team for winning the City League 2. Buses: Eliminate many weekday routes, Several rallies and testimonials have championship on Friday, Feb. 24, with a 57-34 win over OBryant High School. several Saturday and Sunday routes. already been held across the region, with huge The Panthers are coached by first-year coach John Rice who previously won 13 3. subways: Eliminate E Line and Mattapan turnouts everywhere. This writer attended City League championships at Burke High School. Good luck to the team in the Red Line service on weekends. the rally at Copley Square, and the consensus state tournament, which gets underway this month! was that people are fed up with the T and very 4. the ride: Decrease in service area and a sharp increase in rates. angry about the proposed cuts and changes. 5. Ferry service: End all MBTA ferries. Activists from all over the Boston area and These proposals would increase fares members of various organizationsincluding for everyone, with public-school students, the states Sierra Club chapter, Occupy seniors, the disabled Boston, Boston and low-income and Independent Living You can Stil Do Something communities of color Center and the by Stephen brophy Its not too late for you to get involved taking the biggest hits. Fenway Community his month the Huntington Theatre Company (HTC) joins a select group of and express your concern about the The FCDC, which Development regional theaters that have presented every play in August Wilsons Pittsburgh proposed fare rise and service cuts. organized actively Corporation Cycle. Each play takes place in a different decade of the 20th century, and Contact: to turn out Fenway (FCDC)were in together they represent the comic and tragic aspects of the African-American 1. the governors office (1-888-870residents for the rally, attendance. The experience. With its staging in through early April of Ma Raineys Black Bottom, HTC 7770 or 617-725-4005 or fill out the feels these service real noisemakers puts a period on a collaboration that began in the mid-1980s. form at www.mass.gov/governor/ cuts and fare hikes were students, who HTC developed and produced seven of the cycle plays with Wilson while he was utility/contact-us.html). are short-sighted. And came en masse and alive and produced the eighth soon after his death in 2005. It produced Fences (written 2. your state senator: Will theyre not the only spoke loudly and in 1987 and the first of two Pulitzer Prize winners for the author) in 2009, and it now Brownsberger (617-722-1280, ones, by any means. clearly about their brings the cycle to completion with Ma Rainey, Wilsons first great success, written in William.Brownsberger@masenate. A perfect example displeasure. 1984. The Huntington is ending with the first plays because its creative partnership with gov) or Sonia Chang-Daz (617-722is the South Boston After the rally, Wilson began with the third play, Joe Turners Come and Gone, in 1988. Fittingly, this 1673, Sonia.Chang-Diaz@masenate. tech firm that opposes people congregated culmination comes as part of the the Huntingtons 30th-anniversary season. gov) cuts and fare hikes. inside the Boston Managing Director Michael Maso spoke to The Fenway News by phone recently 2. your state representative: Gloria Tech Networks, an Public Librarys to reminisce about the long relationship with Wilson. Asked how the company started Fox (617-722-2810, GloriaFox@ IT services firm Rabb Lecture Hall, working with the playwright, Maso remembers that our first artistic director, Peter mahouse.gov) or Byron Rushing located in Andrew Altman, saw Fences in 1985, and immediately wanted to take on the challenge of staging to give testimonials (617-722-2783, Byron.Rushing@ Square, relies on (over 70 individuals it. Wilsons plays were being developed at the Yale Repertory Theatre at that time, so mahouse.gov). public transportation spoke). The we talked to our counterparts there and arranged to meet him. Fences was not available 3. the Fenway liaison from the mayors to get employees to students shouted because it was headed to Broadway, [in a production that starred James Earl Jones], office (617-635-3485 or mayor@ work and to client loudly when state but he was finishing Joe Turners Come and Gone. cityofboston.gov). sites, and to enable Transportation We had a success with that in 1988, and then again with The Piano Lesson two 4. your city councillors: Mike Ross customers to travel to Secretary Richard years later. [The Piano Lesson earned Wilson his second Pulitzer Prize. Ed.] Peter (617-635-4225, MikeRoss@ and from its offices. Davey, speaking made a commitment with him that whatever he wrote we would produce, which has cityofboston.gov). According to Susan for the MBTA, influenced the way we work ever since. We make extensive commitments to individual To learn more, call Sarah Horsley, Labandibar, president tried to outline the authors and try to develop long-term relationships. director of civic engagement at the of Tech Networks, We proposed plans. Asked what is was like to work with Wilson, Maso responded that the relationship Fenway Community Development subsidize train and Mayor Meninos was very strong. We have many people who have worked at the HTC for more than 20 Corporation at 617 267-4637 or e-mail commuter rail passes words were also years, and August knew all of them, from the costume shop to the stagehands. He was her at shorsley@fenwaycdc.org. The for our employees. drowned at the as warm, funny, and charismatic, a story teller off stage as his plays were on stage. He important thing is to act...and act These fare increases beginning, but once told me that he felt that he was especially nurtured by the HTC, and Boston. now...before its too late! could cost us nearly he stressed to Maso said that Wilson enjoyed working in the Fenway. I would often find him $10,000 per year. sitting at one of the sidewalk tables outside of Pizzeria Uno, writing in his usual way on the crowd that he The bottom line was not in favor of the Ts plan and begged paper napkins or whatever came to hand. He liked to write in coffee shops and other is the T is needed for all who live in and everyone to listen to his proposal. public places where he could hear the way voices sounded Maso considers Wilson around Boston and many who live in the Among other things, the mayor let us one of the great literary figures of this country. It is hard to overestimate the impact suburbs who come into Boston, whether to know that he was eager to work with the that he has had on the American theater. His cycle of plays set in one neighborhood in attend Red Sox games, take in concerts at MBTA. He felt that transportation reform (a Pittsburgh puts him in the same league as William Faulkner or William ONeill. Symphony Hall, visit friends, work or eat out. money-saving consolidation of state agencies Wilsons work has inspired many people, not least Liesl Tommy, director of this The state transportation bureaucracy and the and authorities under the Mass. Department production. In a video on the HTC website she tells how she saw Joe Turners Come legislature has to admit their mistakes and fix of Transportation) had allowed the and Gone as a teenager, and how it helped her decide to work in the theater. Wikipedia the system properly. We, the taxpayers and Commonwealth to operate more effectively, reports that Wilson stated that he was most influenced by the four Bs: blues music, citizens of Massachsuetts, should not have to but he argued that we also need a targeted the Argentine novelist and poet Jorge Luis Borges, the playwright Amiri Baraka and pay for mistakes we are not responsible for. investment the painter Romare Bearden. He went on to add writers Ed Bullins and The real decision makersthe Governor and in our entire James Baldwin to the list. transportation state legislature need to step up to the plate. Ma Raineys Black Bottom is the only play in the Pittsburgh Cycle infrastructure. The MBTA cannot fix this problem on its that does not take place in Pittsburghs Hill District, an African-American own. The governor and state legislature must Despite neighborhood. It happens in a Chicago studio, where Ma Raineyone work together to develop sustainable funding their severity, of the first blues singers to have her voice captured by sound recording mechanisms that consider the bigger picture the current technologyis preparing to cut a few records for two white producers. and wont force riders to bear the brunt of the proposal only She has not yet arrived when the play starts, and by the time she does Big Dig debt. represents a the tensions among the session players is becoming well established. Matti Kniva Spencer lives in the West one-year bandMa Raineys Black Bottom runs from March 9-April 8 at the MaSS. PreSiDential PriMarY for aid. The transit Fenway. Huntington Theatre Companys main stage at 264 Huntington Ave. Visit the DeMocratic, green-rainbow, system is in www.huntingtontheatre.org/ for more information about this and other anD rePublican PartieS
by Matti Kniva Spencer

Ma Raineys Black Bottom Brings Key Play Cycle to a Close at Huntington

Photo: Patrick oconnor

Vote March 6

productions, or call 617-266-7900.

2 | FENWAY NEWS | MARCH 2012

World Traveler and Symbol of Peace, Bell in Fens Has a Long Story
ola Heiler-Stillman never imagined the places her part-time volunteer position would take her. A year ago, she and six others began training as docents, or tour guides, for the Back Bay Fens chapter of the Emerald Necklace Conservancy. The Conservancy, a public-private partnership, sponsors Bostons linear network of parks that stretches from the Boston Common to Franklin Park. Designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, the network is called the Emerald Necklace for its resemblance to jewelry draped across Bostons peninsular neck.Among these parks is the Back Bay Fens. The Fens hold a special appeal for Heiler-Stillman, who grew up in the area. My kids went to school in this area, they were born in this area, I live in this area my parents, my dad is from Mission Hill! And yet in her own backyard lies a piece of history about which, Heiler-Stillman knew
Painting: SoloMZi colbert

by DuKe harten

nothing, until recently, While touring the Fens, HeilerStillman noticed the Japanese temple bell. What intrigued me about the bell was that it was from Sendai, she says, which had particular topical significance given the ongoing natural disaster and nuclear plant near-meltdown in Japan at the time. The bells origin, its unusual shape, and the fact that it was bolted down rather than hung provoked Heiler-Stillman to dig a little deeper. I asked myself a lot of questions, she says. How would I present this bell to people? Research showed that the bell had been confiscated from the Manpuku-Ji Temple of Sendai during World War II. Seventyfive thousand such bells were taken by the Japanese government to be melted down and used for the war effort. Of those 75,000,

in memor ia m

Barbara Richardson Loo of Park Drive died on February 9 at age 94. An avid outdoorswoman, she was a member of the Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC) for more than 65 years. She hiked the entire 2,100 miles of the Appalachian Trail in segments of 1 to 14 days in the company of club members over a period of almost 50 years. She climbed all 48 of the 4,000-foot peaks of the White Mountains, tackling some in winter when she used snowshoes and earning a spot in AMCs elite 4,000 Footer Group. Farther afield, she climbed Californias Mount Whitney, the highest peak in the lower 48 states, and Washingtons Mount Rainier, and she backpacked down into the Grand Canyon. Barbara was the only woman among the founders of the 4,000 Footer Group in the 1950s, and she continued as an active AMC member for decades. Until two years ago she arranged the slide program for senior members of the AMC at club headquarters on Joy Street. She was an assistant professor at Keene Teachers College in New Hampshire, where she taught home economics for 19 years. She graduated from Simmons College with a BS in 1939 and from Massachusetts State College with an MS in 1941. She attended Ayer public schools. She leaves her husband Gilbert B. Loo after 52 years of marriage, niece Beverly Richardson of Petersburg, Alaska; nephew Robert Richardson and wife Carol of Houston, Texas and their two children; cousins in Pennsylvania, Ohio, California, and Massachusetts; and other family members in Hawaii, California, Oregon and Washington. Gifts in Barbaras memory may be made to the Appalachian Trail Conservancy, PO 807, Harpers Ferry, WV 25425 or to the Appalachian Mountain Club, Five Joy Street, Boston, MA 02108. A memorial will be held in the spring.

Barbara Richardson Loo, 19172012

only 2,500 survive today. The Fens bell was found by sailors of the U.S.S. Boston in a Japanese naval yard. It made its way across the Pacific, traversed the continent, and landed in the Boston by 1946. Four other such bells were brought to the U.S., but within several years of the wars conclusion popular sentiment and international pressure had returned all but one of these so-called trophy bells to their proper homes. The Manpuku-Ji Temple believers decided that their bell, however, should remain in Boston. In the interest of peace and friendship, the city would be allowed to keep its trophy on two conditions: first, that it be placed in a childrens park; and second, that its black paint be stripped and the bell restored to its original bronze. In 1953 the State Department, the Museum of Fine Arts, and the U.S. Navy came together to move the newly-restored bell to the Fens, where it would be enjoyed by children and stand as a marker of friendship between Japan and the United States. I truly believe that trophy bell passes judgment on those courageous men who fought brutal, horrendous battles, says Heiler-Stillman. Instead, she likes to focus on what the bell symbolizes: peace and reconciliation. Asked why the bell is bolted down, rather than hung, Heiler-Stillman laughs. Thats a good question, she says. It was stolen. Shortly after the bell was moved to the Fens, petty thieves unhinged it and rolled it down the street, intending to sell it for scrap metal. So it was rescued twice from the same fate! she says. Its pretty remarkable. On March 18, Heiler-Stillman will give a lecture about the bell at the Emerald Necklace Conservancys Visitor Center. The 1 p.m. talk is free and open to the public. Heiler- Stillman will trace its history, outline its legacy, and discuss the cultural significance of it and other bells, such as the United Nations Peace Bell. Its a story of poignancy, tragedy, but ultimately hope, she says. A story that has not yet knelled to a close. Duke Harten lives on Mission Hill. will do is ensure that every town committee in the district becomes a ready-to-go campaign for Republican candidates. I will ensure that all committees in the district cooperate, sharing resources and manpower. Together we will grow our party membership by reaching out to the Unenrolled, to young people and to minorities. And I will proudly spread our message of limited government, lower taxation, and common sense values. A bright future looms for us on the horizon, and I want to be part of it. For more of how I plan to help, please visit my websitewww.steveAylward.com. I humbly ask for your vote on March 6, 2012.
Steven aylwarD

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challenger for republican state committeeman asks for your support

to the eDitor:

For the first time in many years, Republican primary voters in Wards 4 and 5 in Boston have a choice for State Committeeman. I have decided to take on the long term incumbent because I believe I am best qualified to help return the Republican Party to a place of prominence in Massachusetts politics. Unlike my opponent, I recognize that what we he been doing as a Party is simply not working, and a change of strategy is

letters

needed. In terms of the big picture, we must upgrade our technology, where we have fallen far behind the Democrats. And we need to be smarter with our finances. In this day and age of WebEx, teleconferencing and broadband, retaining office space in Downtown Boston is outdated thinking. Scaling back on such unnecessary fixed costs brings more staff and more available funds for viable Republican candidates. At the micro level, we need to accept the fact that it is hard work and hard work alone that is going to revitalize the Republican Party. And that hard work and effort has to start with the State Committeeman. What I

The founders of The Fenway News adopted this motto to express their mission of exposing and opposing the dangers the neighborhood faced in the early 1970srampant arson, unscrupulous landlords, and a destructive urban renewal plan. If the original motto no longer fits todays Fenway, we continue to honor its spirit of identifying problems and making our neighborhood a better and safer place to live.

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Development in the Fenway

This special section to The Fenway News was made possible by these neighborhood organizations: Audubon Circle Neighborhood Association Fenway Civic Association Fenway Community Development Corporation Symphony United Neighbors

2012

FENWAY NEWS | MARCH 2012 | 3

Designation Will Make the Fenway Bostons First Official Cultural District
he Fenway neighborhood will soon be the home of Bostons first official Cultural District, and one of the first such districts established in the Commonwealth. The new Fenway Cultural District will be managed by the Fenway Alliance, a consortium of 22 cultural, academic, and religious institutions in the community. Included in the district (and the Alliance) are such worldfamous institutions as the boston Symphony, the Museum of Fine Arts, New England Conservatory, the Mary Baker Eddy Library, Fenway Studios (the newest member), and the many

by barbara brooks simons

local colleges and universities. The goals behind the establishment of Cultural Districts are cultural, economic, and community-oriented. Among them are stimulating the arts, attracting artists and creative businesses, encouraging tourism, preserving historic buildings, enhancing property values, and helping local economic and cultural development. According to the Alliance, it hopes to promote a cultural environment that merges the Fenways rich historic cultural resources with its many contemporary elements into a more well-known, welcoming and creative experience for

residents, students, and national and international visitors. The path toward official designation began in 1998, when Mayor Thomas menino designated Huntington avenue as avenue of the arts. Then, in 2010 the legislature passed the Cultural District Initiative, which gave the Massachusetts Cultural Council (MCC) oversight over establishing such districts. The approval process included a community application, a visit to the proposed site, a map showing a well-defined area, and approval by local government. Some 100 communities throughout the Commonwealth applied. in December 2011, the Boston City Council

unanimously approved a resolution supporting a state-designated cultural district. The resolution recognized the Fenways significant concentration of cultural facilities and assets. The Fenway Alliance has created a Fenway Cultural District Committee to carry out its goals. Its 80 members represent residents, businesses, institutions, and government entities. The official designation of the Fenway Cultural District will be part of an mCC meeting and reception on March 20 at the Isabella stewart Gardner museum. Barbara Brooks Simons lives in the East Fens.

museums and colleges, a few members ance is hastening the turning of culture he Fenway is about to be of the Fenway Alliance are grassroots into a commodityan increasingly designated a cultural dis- groups that should be advocating for costly commodity where the Fenway trict. We residents should the neighborhoodsuch as the Fenway becomes a conduit through which tourist be very wary. and student dollars flow into corporate Community Development Corporation Those who live in coffers to benefit those living elsewhere. and the Fenway Civic Association. the Fenway, East and West, know that But this is more a source of wonder In the process, the Fenway Alliance mechanical bulldozers have changed the rather than an argument that the Alliseems to have also hoodwinked our shape and condition of our neighborance in any way speaks for the neighbor- elected officials on the City Council. But hood. The major bulldozing took place this is in keeping with the history of the hood. Representatives of local groups under the title of urban renewal in the marriage of City Hall with the Boston leave the impression of being awed by 1970s. There then followed Redevelopthe first phase of economic ment Authorbulldozing, making it more ity, in which and more difficult to afford to the municipal live in the Fenway. authorities Now we are entering have never a third phase, that of culseen a develtural bulldozing. This process opment that threatens to complete the they didnt transformation of a precious like. neighborhood into a gentriThe fied theme district, a kind Fenway of parody of its true historic Alliance is strength as the cultural heart clear about of Boston. With this new its purposes. In a pre-corporate era, the Boston Opera House commanded the corner destination identity for the For example, of Huntington Avenue and Opera Place, midway between the Museum of Fenway, ordinary folk will be on December Fine Arts and Symphony Hall. It fell to bulldozers in 1958. unable to live here as a new 6, 2011, the wave of high-priced housing the big institutions and overwhelmed by Alliance sponsored a complimentary arrives in the wake of culture. their triumphalist approach. Grassroots breakfast at Simmons College for a The designation will serve to talk entitled Energy as an Investment advocacy is neutralized in this environfurther the commercialization of the fine ment. Strategy. At this seminar, the treasurers, and liberal arts. It represents a further We are seeing the aggrandizement chief financial officers, and chief execustep in turning the hallowed vessels of the institutions as corporate entities, tive officers of our local museums and of our civilizationour concert halls, universities were told how participating to the detriment of the neighborhood. museums and universitiesinto stylin the global energy sector can enhance What provision is the Fenway Alliance ish marketplaces and profitable tourist their endowments and investments. making to mitigate the economic destinations. Worse, it provides cover for hardship that their programs entail Does anyone think that Los Angelesthe Fenway institutions to continue their for the people who make the Fenway based NWQ Investment Management steamrolling of the neighborhood. would hesitate to recommend increastheir home? What measures will the The designation is being pushed ing shares in coal, offshore oil drilling Fenway Alliance implement to assist by The Fenway Alliance, an organization local small business development? and even nuclear power if these brought whose real purpose appears to be little a solid return? The functioning of the What meaningful support will the more than to smooth the way for each Fenway Alliance as a chamber of comFenway Alliance bring to the nurturing of the member institutions to take their merce for the institutions is probably of local artists, musicians, writers and piece of the pie with little regard to the perfectly legitimate (leaving aside for performers? What limits will be the people who actually live in the Fenway now the nonprofit status of these instituinstitutions, in their tax-free status, be neighborhood. tions), but at least we citizens should willing to place on their own growth? Admittedly, in addition to the The danger is that the Fenway Alli- understand its identity, and interpret its
by bob Case

Facing the Third Bulldozer: Culture and the Fenway

policies and actions accordingly when it comes to culture. Lets look, therefore, at the structure the Fenway Alliance is setting up to shape the Fenway Cultural District. The Alliance is establishing committees with titles like Design, Marketing, and Promotions, Academic Advisement, Economic Development, Access Working Group, and Opening Our Doors. While the purposes of these committees mention economic access, local artists opportunity, and street vibrancy, one might easily conclude that these are code words for marketing of the institutions, especially in the context of the list of committee activities, including cross-marketing opportunities; concerns of academic institutions; developing district mobilization; economic and physical accessibility. Finally, listed is that telltale activity that always appears when theme replaces authenticity, and a commercial shell substitutes for what was real: Logo Branding. The history of the past 50 years of the Fenway is the history of the dismantling of the grassroots culture that characterized the neighborhood from the end of the 19th century until 1960. The residential Fenway had grown up with the institutions and there was a dynamic relationship of the museums and colleges with an authentic, diverse community that included artists, musicians, music teachers and small performance spaces. But as the institutions grew, they absorbed hundreds of units of housing. Simultaneously, the neighborhood was impacted by a brand of urban renewal that left the residents so unprotected that a federal court actually halted the Fenway Urban Renewal Project in 1973. The changes coming as a result of Cultural District designation threaten to continue that process, as culture becomes a homogenized commodity, a bulldozer leading to the kind of economic
Turn to bULLDOZER on page 6

4 | FENWAY NEWS | MARCH 2012

boston unIversIty InstItutIonal Master plan

StatuS: Under review Size: approximate 803,000SF, including renovated space Developer: Boston University coSt: Not available

$3.5 to $4.5 Billion Worth

Boston Universitys 2012 IMP includes completion of projects from the previous master plan, such as construction of the final dormitory in John Hancock Student Village and construction of a new sports field atop parking for the womens field hockey team. New projects include an 11-story academic building where a parking lot exists at 645 Commonwealth Avenue; a 53,000SF academic and administrative building on Bay State Road; complete renovation of Myles Standish Hall; a 165,000SF research building on Cummington Street; and several public realm improvements in streets and streetscapes.
Bra project manager: Erico.Lopez.bra@cityofboston.gov

D
b

ont doubt for a moment that the commercial real estate market h of development projects in and around the Fenway, tells a jaw-dr approved for construction in and around the Fenway are worth r projects in the database without cost information yields another three buildings on the Christian Science Plaza and the various proposals for bringing the total tab for approved or likely to be approved projects in and ar

STORROW DR

IV E

wInsor school expansIon

start mid-summer
Size: 440,000SF StatuS: Board approved; construction to Far: 1.76** Developer: Winsor School coSt: $297,000,000

r s
BEA CO N

A 10-story, 320,000SF, mixed-use building; a 4-story, 110,000SF performing arts and athletics building; and a 30,000SF addition to the athletic complex. A 148-car parking garage will be built beneath the existing athletic field.
Bra project manager:John.Fitzgerald.bra@cityofboston.gov

EE STR

MASS PIKE

Size: 350,000SF

Far: 7.3

coSt: $315,000,000

A 9-story building with lab, office, and clinical uses. 8,400SF of ground-floor retail/ restaurant space and 290 parking spaces. Height: 175 feet.
Bra project manager: Sonal.Gandhi.BRA@CityofBoston.gov)

B OY

LS

PA R K D R I VE
Y BA

StatuS: Board approved

Developer: National Development

S TO N

j TREE T k

KL

StatuS: Under review Size: 360,000SF

Developer: Brigham & Womens

OO

Hospital

d
BR

EA VE

coSt: Not available

IN

Brigham & Womens Hospital (BWH) is requesting an amendment to its 2010 IMP to enter into a long-term ground lease with Emmanuel College for Parcel C of its Endowment Campus. BWH currently leases a 50,000SF building on Parcel C for research and office space as well as on-site parking. BWH proposes to build an approximately 360,000SF building for hospital uses, including laboratory, research and support spaces. The project will provide 355 below-grade replacement parking space.
Bra project manager: Sonal.Gandhi.BRA@CityofBoston.gov

CK

EN
F
IV

brIGhaM & woMens hospItal IMp* aMendMent

THE

FEN

g d
Fenway trIanGle MIxed-use project
StatuS: Board approved Size: 700,000SF Far: 7.0 Developer: Samuels & Associates coSt: $315,000,000

eMManuel colleGe IMp*

StatuS: Under review Size: 241,000SF Developer: Emmanuel College Far: 1.52 (campus) coSt: Not available

f i

RU

GG

IMPs represent ten-year projections. This one calls for two new buildings on Emmanuels academic campus: an expansion of Cardinal Cushing Library (58,000SF, with height remaining at 75 feet) and construction of Julie Hall North dormitory (183,000SF, 425475 beds, 300- to 400-seat dining hall; height 150 feet).
Bra project manager: Katelyn.Sullivan.bra@cityofboston.gov

Mass art dorMItory/expansIon

completion expected in 2012; expansion approved
Size: 185,600SF (both) StatuS: Dorm under construction, Developer: Massachusetts

College of Art & Design

A 17-story mixed-use project with 300 residential units, 575 parking spaces, and 170,000SF of office and retail space (30,000SF ground-floor retail and 140,000SF anchor retail, rumored to be an urban format Target store). Height 178 feet; 22 units of on-site affordable housing; $500,000 paid toward a community center in the West Fens.
Bra project manager: John.Fitzgerald.bra@cityofboston.gov

coSt: $120,000,000

1271 boylston street

StatuS: Letter of intent filed Size: 350,000SF Developer: Weiner Ventures coSt: Not available

145,600SF, 21-story dormitory with 493 beds on Huntington Avenue. The expansion comprises a design and media center, conversion of an underutilized gymnasium into design studios and classrooms, and renovation of a gallery to lecture hall + learning space.
no project manager: State-funded institutions do not undergo BRA review

Preliminary proposal to replace the current Howard Johnson hotel with a mixed-use building containing hotel rooms, residential units, and 280 below-grade parking spaces.
Bra project manager: John.Fitzgerald.bra@cityofboston.gov

Isabella stewart Gardner MuseuM addItIon

StatuS: Complete, opened January 19 area: 60,000SF Developer: Gardner Museum coSt: $118,000,000

1282 boylston street

StatuS: Board approved area: 331,000SF Far: 7.0 Developer: The Abbey Group coSt: $150,000,000

Addition with an exhibition gallery, orientation space, education classrooms, caf, gift shop, greenhouse, offices, conservation lab, storage areas and concert hall. Maximum height of 62 feet; 17 parking spaces; additional garden space will be designed.

121 brooklIne avenue

StatuS: Board approved; construction

SE corner of Boylston and Jersey streets (former McDonalds site), 220 residential units, 12,000SF of ground-floor retail, and 88,000SF of office space. The ground floor along Jersey Street will include a 2,700SF community space. Twenty-one units of affordable housing provided on-site, with 295 parking spaces below grade.
Bra project manager: John.Fitzgerald.bra@cityofboston.gov

begins this spring

Developer: Boylston Properties coSt: $138,000,000

area: 127,300SF

Far: 7.0

41 westland avenue/44 burbank street

StatuS: Board approved area: 68,000SF Far: 7.35 Developer: Catamount Westland, LLC coSt: $15,000,000

A limited-service, extended-stay hotel with 175 rooms. Eight stories, with 6,300SF of ground-floor retail/restaurant space, and 40-50 underground parking spaces. Marriott Residence Inn will operate the hotel facility.
Bra project manager: Jay.Rourke.bra@cityofboston.gov

Renovation of the 7-story Symphony Garage building will create 48 market-rate loft condos and 32 on-site parking spaces. Maximum height of 89 feet.
Bra project manager: John.Fitzgerald.bra@cityofboston.gov

* IMP stands for institutional master plan, which the owners of large campuses (such as colleges and hospitals) submit every 10 years to the city. **FAR stands for floor area ratio, a measure of a buildings bulk relative to the land it sits on. An FAR of 1.0 is equivalent to 1 story covering the land fully.

S
R PA K DR E

vic g a r to

lonGwood center/joslIn center expansIon

h i

LE

has rebounded in Boston. This map, the third Fenway News compilation ropping story: Information from the BRAs online database shows projects roughly $2.2 billion. Extrapolating conservatively to estimate costs for r $1.3 billion. Two additional projects areas gearing up for development r Turnpike Air Rights parcels 12 to 15will likely add another $1.0 billion, round the Fenway to $4.5 billion.
MA VE SS A

of Development

FENWAY NEWS | MARCH 2012 | 5

Grand Marc at st. botolph

StatuS: Board approved area: 219,000SF Developer: Phoenix Lincoln coSt: $100,000,000

Properties (for Northeastern University)

This dormitory will have 720 beds along St. Botolph Street. The building will be located on part of the Huntington YMCA site and involves demolition of part of the YMCA gymnasium. Northeastern will have a long-term lease on the building and will house students as part of the implementation its Institutional Master Plan.
Bra project manager: Gerald.Autler.bra@cityofboston.gov

new enGland conservatory expansIon

StatuS: Under review

CO MM AV E

B OY

N S TO

EE STR

Developer: Meredith & Grew for New England Conservatory Size: 200,000SF Far: 8.0 coSt: Not available

rd o

STREE

ry s n e

o
N WAY

p l

Phase 110-story, 135,000SF building on a parking lot on St. Botolph Street between Mass. Ave. and Gainsborough, with a 250-bed dormitory, library, and dining hall. Phase 2Replacement of existing dorm on Gainsborough with a 65,000SF, 7-story student-life building with practice space, coffee house, library.
Bra project manager: Gerald.Autler.bra@cityofboston.gov

boston conservatory InstItutIonal Master plan

StatuS: Completed Size: 17,000SF Far: 1.76 Developer: The Boston Conservatory coSt: $8,000,000

WEST

HEME

LAND

AV E

Includes renovation of a 23,000SF theater and purchase of a 17,000SF building at 32 Ipswich Street for use as practice space and classrooms.

n
VE NA

Bra project manager: Gerald.Autler.bra@cityofboston.gov

AS

AV E

berklee colleGe oF MusIc IMp*

StatuS: Under construction; new dorm

Y WA

under construction at 168 Mass. Ave.

Developer: Berklee College of

Music

area: 155,000SF

coSt: $100,000,000

HU

G TIN

TO

As called for under Berklees institutional master plan, the building will be a 116-story facility with 4,500SF of ground-floor retail, a two-story dining hall, a fitness center, and practice and ensemble space. This first phase of a multiyear expansion will also include a new building at the SE corner of Mass Ave and Boylston Street on the site of the old State Street Bank building.
Bra project manager: Gerald.Autler.bra@cityofboston.gov

Fenway center (turnpIke aIr rIGhts parcel 7)

SS TR

Waiting in the Wings

Under review: Mass turnpIke parcels 1215
Developers Citizen Advisory Committee will recommend developers for each parcel

EE

began last month

StatuS: Board approved; construction Size: 1,300,000SF Far: 5.58

Developer: Meredith Kenmore/

Fenway Development

coSt: $475,000,000

to the Mass. Department of Transportation (MassDOT), which will make a final choice. Designated developers will submit revised proposals for BRA approval under the Article 80 process for large projects. Only Trinity Financial submitted a proposal for Parcel 13; it seems likely to win designation. Candidates for 12 and 15 are Trinity Financial; Weiner Ventures with Samuels & Associates; Chiofaro Company; and Carpenter & Company. BrA project mAnAger Ines Soto Palmarin (ines.soto.bra@cityofboston.gov) Description Three new buildings. One adjacent to the Sunday School building at the corner of Huntington Ave and Mass Ave, with a height of 291 feet. Two additional buildings at the intersection of Belvidere and Dalton streets, one 251 feet tall and one 512 feet tall. Additional changes: Renovation of reflecting pool and open spaces. Potential uses include office, residential, retail, hotel, and below-grade parking. Architects have not yet been chosen, and exact uses have not been determined. project size 950,000SF (for all three buildings) totAl FAr for plaza 2.8

Four buildings and a parking structure to be built above the Mass Turnpike using Air Rights Parcel 7 and adjacent land. Bordered by Beacon Street and Brookline Avenue bridges and an existing parking lot along Maitland Street. A total of 480 residential units, including 48 on-site affordable units; 94,000SF of retail/restaurant space; 170,000SF of office space; and 1,290 parking spaces in a garage. Height ranges from 80 to 340 feet. Additional features: Expansion of Yawkey commuter rail station; creation of 30,000SF of parks and green space.
Bra project manager: John.Fitzgerald.bra@cityofboston.gov

bu east caMpus student servIces center

2012
StatuS: Under construction, opening fall area: 121,646SF Developer: Boston University coSt: $50,000,000

A six-story building consisting of a 36,000SF dining hall with 900 seats; multifunction room in the lower level with a 25-seat coffee shop; 150-seat multipurpose room; and a center for tutoring/career counseling.
Bra project manager: Erico.Lopez.bra@cityofboston.gov

in Process: chrIstIan scIence plaza revItalIzatIon project

DeveloperS First Church of Christ, Scientist and Church Realty Trust BrA project mAnAger Jonathan.Greeley.BRA@cityofboston.gov pArcel 12 Trinity Financial proposes a 493,000SF, 14-story, mixed-use building with

chIldrens hospItal expansIon/819 beacon street

StatuS: Letter of intent filed Size: 656,000SF Developer: Childrens Hospital Boston coSt: Not available Far: Not available

pArcels 14/15

29,000SF of ground-floor retail, 366 units of market-rate housing, and 230 parking spaces. Weiner Ventures proposes a 183,000SF, 8-story, mixed-use building with 98 units of housing (including on-site affordable units) above ground-floor retail. pArcel 13 Trinity Financial proposes a 10-story, 250,000SF mixed-used building, with one section built for and leased to Boston Architectural College, providing a student facility and 90 units of student housing. The building will also have 11,000SF of ground-floor retail, 126 units of market-rate residential units, and 75 parking spaces.

Childrens Hospital proposes to build a Childrens Clinical Building of about 445,000SF within its existing campus; add a level of parking to the Patient & Family Parking Facility with 86 new spaces; and build a new building at 819 Beacon Street with approximately 211,000SF of office space and ground-floor retail, and 526 parking spaces in a new garage.
Bra project manager: Sonal.Gandhi.BRA@CityofBoston.gov

> Chiofaro Company proposes a 30-story, 636,000SF office and retail building. It has a partnership with Prudential Financial, which owns part of the parcel. > Carpenter & Company proposes a 7-story, 123,000SF, 200-room hotel with ground-floor retail on Parcel 15. The project would extend across Cambria Street to include a 16-story, 400,000SF office tower built above the existing parking garage. > Weiner Ventures proposes a 40-story, 764,000SF mixed-use building on Parcels 14 and 15. The building would have ground-floor retail, 375,000SF of office space, and 168,000SF of residential space, with 240 parking spaces. project size 183,000SF to 764,000SF, depending on proposal.

The Fenway News thanks the people who made this special section possible. Lillian Jacobson of the Fenway Community Development Corporation compiled and organized the data from the BRAs online database. Joyce Foster and Steve Wolf edited and fact-checked the project information. And four neighborhood organizations generously agreed to sponsor this overview: Audubon Circle Neighborhood Association, Fenway Civic Association, Fenway Community Development Corporation, and Symphony United Neighbors. We thank all of them for making this compilation possible.

6 | FENWAY NEWS | MARCH 2012

Civic Assn. Sees Benefit in More Height, Ownership Opportunities

by bill riCharDson

here is a perception in the neighborhood that the creation of student housing and higher-end apartments in ever taller buildings will change the character of our neighborhood forever. To the extent that no dynamic, economically-vital city will ever stay exactly the same, that is true. What is also true is the Fenway is facing two runaway freight trains of housing demand from students and short-term residents, and if we are not willing to expand our existing housing stock, we will see the changes of the last few decades continue until there are no long-term residents with neighborhood connections left living in the Fenway. Fenway Civic Association is an all-volunteer neighborhood organiza-

stability. The Fenway is uniquely situated in that it faces enormous pressure from the housing demands of two short-term resident market segments: students (both undergraduate and graduate) and shortterm employees (medical residents and fellows, etc.). These forces have turned many of the condominium buildings that do exist in the neighborhood into de facto dorms and rental housing for those who are here for just a year or two. The only way we will ever have the chance of seeing any of the older, more affordable housing become available to those who might want to put down roots and raise a family is to see a large portion of the rental demand shifted to college-owned dormitories and newer, more modern rental units in buildings along Boylston Street and Turnpike air-rights development. Those of us living in the neighborhood and hoping for our small bULLDOZER from page 3 historical streets to stay unchanged squeeze that overwhelms what is left of a unique neighborhood. The story of the Fenways grassroots cultural life and the process of its disman- should be willing to accept greater height and density for those who wish to build tling, together with the consequent dangerous rise of new high-end projects which are even now on the drawing-board, will be laid out in a second article. Proposals for the badly-needed housing in appropriate areas. The expense of designing and saving what is left of this precious neighborhood community will be suggested. Meanwhile, when you hear the phrase Fenway Cultural District and you are a building a modern housing unit can be prohibitive. Labor and raw materials costs member of the Fenway neighborhood community, be afraid. Be very afraid. are consistently rising. Planning processes Bob Case is a longtime resident of the East Fens and a founding member, in 1973, of the and financing hurdles are lengthy and sometimes defined by those who have no Fenway Community Development Corporation.

tion established in 1961 to advance the quality of life for its residents. Many of our board members participated in the public consensus-based process of rezoning our neighborhood with an eye to encouraging new housing development in under-utilized areas along major arterials while drawing a circle around the traditional, small-scale urban streets of the inner neighborhoods of both the East and West Fens. Fenway Civic Association has consistently advocated for greater homeownership opportunities in a neighborhood with the lowest percentage of units available for purchase than any other neighborhood in the City of Boston. While it is undeniable that many long-term renters are great assets to our community, the opportunity to own a home brings with it the incentive to engage with and advocate for the neighborhood and its long-term

sense of what this neighborhood is like. Financiers in New York may refuse to finance condominium units not believing anyone would buy here or else mandate building a certain amount of parking spaces despite the fact that many of us can do without a car or use multiple modes of transportation. It is imperative that there be affordable units available for seniors who have lived the bulk of their lives here and wish to remain in the neighborhood. But equally important is not to have too large a percentage of subsidized units that can go to any resident of Boston who qualifies, putting further pressure on limited stock. Unit size is also a large problem in the Fenway as the bulk of market rate units are one bedroom and studios. Anyone looking to raise a family in the Fenway will find that landlords have established as many small units as possible in their buildings, and that available larger units are unaffordable due to student demand. What is necessary is a vibrant and, most importantly, balanced mix of housing that will encourage people to put down roots, raising families that lead to elementary schools, community centers, and a longterm community for the Fenway. Bill Richardson is president of the Fenway Civic Association and lives in the West Fens.

FCDC Says Affordability, Diversity Open Doors to Everyone

by JoyCe Foster

Without housing and jobs for Fenway residents, however, these are hollow he wave of new buildings advantages. The FCDC adheres to our approved by the BRA for 20-year-old resident-built vision of an construction in the East urban village that welcomes everyone and and West Fens comes at a particularly tough time for assures that anyone can take advantage of the neighborhoods housing market. Less life here. The vision emphasizes sufficient and varied housing, access to public tranthan a year ago, the Fenway lost nearly sit, reduced vehicular traffic, community10% of its affordable housing units when building facilities, a healthy business the owners of the Burbank Apartments community that serves all residents while pulled out of a federal housing program providing job opportunities, and longthat had financed the renovation of their seven buildings in return for maintenance term environmental sustainability. When real estate interests waged a of affordable rents over an extended statewide campaign to abolish rent conperiod of time. trol in Boston in the 1990s, they argued More development and less that once freed from artificial constraints, affordable housing are the price we the magic of the marketplace would residents have paid for the Fenways provide plenty of new housing affordemergence as one of the most desirable able to people at all income levels. Reality neighborhoods in the city. The Fenway has proved very different: almost all new CDC has returned forcefully to its trahousing built in the Fenway since then ditional role of working to hold the line against wholesale disruption that results (indeed, in any downtown neighborhood) has been luxury housing. Partly in from gentrification: forced exodus of response, Mayor Menino established an families; increasing distortion of housing prices by students, now two-thirds of inclusionary zoning policy. It requires each new housing development to include the population in the Kenmore-Fenway a small percentage of units affordable district; a shrinking pool of long-term to lower- and middle-income residents residents active in civic life; and the loss and has proven the most effective tool for of a resident workforce that can find entry-level jobs with benefits in the insti- stemming the loss of affordable housing. We believe it could be used even more tutions that surround the neighborhood. effectively to increase the opportunity for Like everyone else, we applaud the homes in the Fenway for a wider group new amenities that improve our shared of people, and we are working to encourquality of life. The small businesses that have seen opportunity hererestaurants, age policies that can make residential Marshalls Farm Stand, even drugstores developments more accessible, at lower benefit everyone and complement endur- cost, to the widest possible number of people. ing assets like community gardens, a We pursue our urban village vision terrific park, a stock of beautiful heritage and housing affordability because our buildings, and a rich cultural agenda members believe that this neighborhood, that has made the neighborhood famous which has been so good to so many of worldwide. Even the influx of students us, ought to be accessible to anyone who has a positive side, at least for some wants to live here. We cherish our small neighbors who say the streets feel safer and human-scaled enclave in a big, somethan they once did.

BRA

times hostile city. Even as we welcome changes that new development brings, we want to keep the neighborhood as the uniquely diverse community we moved to,

whether last year or 45 years ago. Joyce Foster is a member of the Fenway CDC board of directors and lives in the East Fens.

The Boston Redevelopment Authority is hosting a Public Meeting regarding

New Balance Athletic Field

Tuesday, March 6th 6:00PM

Boston University School of Management Building

595 Commonwealth Avenue, Boston, MA 02215
Project Proponent: Boston University Project Description: Boston University proposes to construct an approximately 110,500 square foot artificial turf athletic field with spectator seating, support buildings, and below- and at-grade parking for up to 360 vehicles to provide athletic field space for intercollegiate and intramural athletic programs (Proposed Project). The Proposed Project includes the demolition of an existing three story building at 278 Babcock Street. Close of Comment Period: Wednesday, March 21, 2012 ERICO LOPEZ BOSTON REDEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY ONE CITY HALL SQUARE, 9TH FLOOR BOSTON, MA 02201 fax: 617.742.7783 phone: 617.918.4429 email: erico.lopez.bra@cityofboston.gov

Brian P. Golden Executive Director/Secretary

FENWAY NEWS | MARCH 2012 | 7

Photo: aleSSio roMano

> calenDar from page 8 Raineys Black Bottom represents the 1920s. The Huntington Theatre Company had a long history with Wilson (see p. 1), so this production has been eagerly awaited. Tickets start at $25. Visit www.huntingtontheatre.org for more information.
Sat, Mar 10: Steve Reich performs with

memorable moments. Tickets $43.50$76 at the Symphony Hall box office, online a www.bso.org or 888-266-1200.
weD, Mar 14: Despite their involvement with jazz since its inception, womens achievements are often not as, um, trumpeted as those of their male counterparts. Haley House Bakery Cafe sponsors a discussion on the impact of women jazz musicians during the era of civil rights activism. Arrive early to order dinner; discussion, 7-9pm. Visit www.discoverroxbury.org/#/ tours-events for details. FREE with dinner, seating limited.

the Bang on a Can Allstars in Kresge Auditorium as part of his residency at MiT. Pre-concert talk at 6:30; the music commences at 7:30pm. Tickets $10$30 (free for MiT community). To learn more, visit http://arts.mit.edu/va/artist/bang-on-a-can/ More than 100 musicians, including a full orchestra and choir, perform music from Final Fantasy, one of the most successful video game franchises. Distant Worlds: Music From Final Fantasy also features a massive video screen highlighting the games

Sat, Mar 10: Video games at Symphony Hall?

thu, Mar 15: UMass Amherst landscape

Roof Deck KENO Now Open Memorial Day ESPN Game Plan Draft Specials to Labor Day! Great seafood Swing on tips and steak in for

he 10-woman ensemble known as Women of the World played to a fri-Sat, Mar 23-24: See Fred Astaire and packed crowd at Regattabar on a Gingers Rogers in the most beloved of their cold Saturday night. By the time 10 cinematic partnership, Top Hat, the dancing musical extravaganza quoted by everyone they finished, it could have been summer under the stars. The crowd was cheering and from Woody Allen to Yellow Submarine. Screenings 6pm on Fri, 2 and 8:30pm on Sat. whistling. Their performance had splashed Tickets $5-$10 at the box office, www.ArtsE- the room with warmth and light. They came back for two encores, and later, an informal merson.org, or 617-824-8400. jam for music-lovers who had not yet left on, Mar 26-thu, aPr 26: Trustman Art the room. Three friends who attended with Gallery at Simmons College presents a me said: we expected good jazzthis three-artist show, Loves Labors. The three was tremendous, like nothing weve heard artistsBeth Balliro, Monica Bock, and before! Cynthia Newsomeuse the experience of The vocalists are Annette Philip from motherhood to fuel their creativity. RecepIndia, Giorgia Resnosto from Italy, Ali tion on Mar 29, 5-7pm. visit www.simmons. Rapetti from the U.S. and Ayumi Ueda edu/trustman for more information. FREE from Japan. Ayumi brought the group togetherherself coming to Berklee to thu, Mar 29-Sun, aPr 1: Boston explore the varieties of musical traditions, Conservatory Theater performs Mozarts and reveling in the diversity of musical Don Giovanni, 31 Hemenway St. Sung in interests and musicians. Almost all of WOW italian with English surtitles. Thu-Sat at 8pm; Sun at 2pm. Tickets $10$25, available has a Berklee link. At Regattabar that night, these singers by phone at 617-912-9222 or at http:// wove intricate harmonies and rhythms, bostonconservatory.ticketforce.com/.

historian Ethan Carr presents Frederick Law Olmsted 1882-1890: Boston, Brookline and Beyond. Wheelock College, 43 Hawes Street, Brookline; reception at 6pm, lecture at 7pm. FREE, reservations advised: email friendsoffairsted@gmail.com or leave a message at 617-566-1689, ext. 265.

Women of the World Make a Joyful Noise

by niKKi FlioniS

lunch & enjoy Tavern BuzzTime favorites including hot dogs for interactive only $1.50 during Red television Sox Away Games!
1270 Boylston Street Boston, MA 02215 617.867.6526

THE MISSION HILL/FENWAY NEIGHBORHOOD TRUST, INC.

requests proposals from organizations seeking funding for projects and programs intended to serve residents of the Mission Hill and Fenway neighborhoods.
For information and a proposal form, please visit www.MissionHillFenwayNT.org
ALL PROPOSALS MUST INCLUDE AN ORIGINAL AND 6 COPIES AND MUST BE SENT BY MAIL POSTMARKED NO LATER THAN MARCH 30, 2012. NO DROP-OFFS WILL BE ACCEPTED.

Visit us online at:

se TheBa ballTavern.com

played original and traditional compositions reflecting Japan, Italy, Bulgaria, the U.S., Greece, Ireland and India. They sang blues and jazz, some a cappella but most enhanced by the talented six-woman band. Kazuyo Kuriya played a nuanced and powerful jazz flute, Sue Buzzard was versatile, moving skillfully between idioms. Sara Cristal Pena-Coffin on bass guitar laid down the foundation but also kept the bass communicating with her bandmates. Hinako Sato made the keyboards sing, and drummers Shirazette Tinnin and Noriko Terada kept up a virtuostic conversation with each other, as well as the group, on drums and percussion. The music spoke throughout the nightit shouted, it soothed, it pleaded, it celebrated. The visual was as powerful as the music: here were women from around the world, and here was family. But the strongest pulse of all was the palpable joy of these women creating the music together. When asked what they are hoping to accomplish as an ensemble, all of the women were clearthey are together to model and celebrate the diversity of our world through music, to create and play authentic and wonderful music, and, as Annette Philip said: to support each other doing what makes us happy. It is hard to describe the music of Women of the World in words, but before they depart for New York in April, then continue on to Greece, Kenya, Japan and Indiayou should do your best to hear them. They play at Cafe 939 on March 6. If you miss them, theyll be back for the Beantown Jazz Festival in September. Women of the World met through their connections to Berklee, which among its students and faculty, represents over 90 countries. The school reports that over 30% of its students are international. For those of us living in the Fenway, it just confirms that there is serious musicserious, exploratory and joyousall around us. Nikki Flionis lives in the East Fens. Women of the World play again March 6 at 8 p.m. in The Red Room at Cafe 939 on Boylston Street. Tickets are $10 and can be bought online.

Neighbor to Neighbor Cleanup

Do you need help with a small outside project? Raking, weeding, planting?

On April 1, volunteers from Northeastern would like to help!

Projects based on availability; first come, first served

If interested, contact d.isberg@neu.edu, (617) 373-8265

8 | FENWAY NEWS | MARCH 2012

This symbol indicates a free event. For even more listings, visit www.fenwaynews.org

Collaborative presents La Bohme by Giacomo Puccini, at MassArts Tower Auditorium, 621 Huntington Avenue. Fri-Sat at 8pm, Sun 3pm. Pre-performance lecture, Consuming Music: Parisian Caf cCulture and Puccinis La Bohme with Dr. Laura Prichard at 2 pm on Mar 4. in italian with English supertitles. Tickets $15-$25 at www. bostonoperacollaborative.org or reserve by phone at 617-518-5883.
weD, Mar 7: The Beehive teams up with Chef Alexandre Loiseau and his crew from Bistro Cocagne in Montreal to offer a twist on the Quebec/New England sugar shack

fri-Sun, Mar 2-4 anD 9-11: Boston Opera

historian James M. McPherson, author and editor of 25 books about the American Civil War and Reconstruction, delivers a talk in the Lowell Lecture Series. 6 p.m. in Rabb Lecture Hall at the Central Library in Copley Square. FREE

thu, Mar 8: The Women Musicians

Network holds its annual concert at Berklee Performance Center. The show focuses on female Berklee musicians from around the world12 varied acts, ranging from jazz and gospel to Bulgarian folk music. Special guests are Berklee City Music, Renese King, and world-music band Zili Misik. Tickets $8 in advance, $12 day of show at the box office or at www.berkleebpc.com.

fri, Mar 9-Sun, aPr 8: in August Wilsons cycle of plays covering the 20th century, Ma calenDar on page 7 >

Photo: Saglio PhotograPhY, inc.

thu-Sun, Mar 1-4: How will the actors do the Full Monty in The Full Monty? you only have this weekend to find out, as the Boston Conservatory stages a musical based on the 1997 British film about unemployed workers finding audacious ways to affirm their personhood. Book by Terrence McNally. Music and Lyrics by David yazbek. Directed by Laura Marie Duncan. Thu, Fri and Sat at 8 p.m.; Sat and Sun at 2 p.m. Tickets are $10$25. Box office: 617-912-9222 or http://bostonconservatory.ticketforce.com.

experience with a multicourse familystyle feast accompanied by live music by traditional Quebec performers. Guests will be seated at communal tables and served a series of dishes on shared platters as well as the diners own choice of entre for $45 per person. 5pm-2am. 617-423-0069.
thu, Mar 8: Pulizer-Prize-winning

pick of the month

Classic Coming-Out Memoir Moves to Stage

The Boston Childrens Theatre, based at the Huntington Ave. yMCA, is offering the world premiere of a play based on a classic coming-out memoir, Reflections of a Rock Lobster by Aaron Fricke. The book tells of Frickes torment at the hands of his fellow high school students in Rhode island in 1980. while the bullying caused him to doubt himself from time to time, and even to consider ending his life, he found a great way to fight back. He sued the school district to be allowed to bring his boyfriend to the school prom, and won. By standing up for his personal and civil rights and by refusing to apologize for who he is, Aaron not only wins in court, but he also wins in the hearts and minds of his peers and his community. His strength and ultimate victory help pave the way for legions of gay and lesbian students. Adapted for the stage by BCt executive Artistic director Burgess Clark, Reflections of a Rock Lobster will be performed by students between the ages of 14 and 19 alongside adult actors. Performances take place at the Huntingtons wimberly Theatre at the Boston Center for the Arts, 527 tremont street, on March 3pm at 8pm, March 4 at 2pm, March 9 at 8pm, March 10 at 2pm and 8pm and March 11 at 2pm. tickets are $35 and can be purchased by visiting www.bostonchildrenstheatre.org or calling the BCt box office at 617424-6634, x222.

weD. Mar 7: Fenway CDC Civic Engagement

tue, Mar 13: State Sen. Will Brownsbergers

Committee. Mobilize to save the #55 bus and find other ways to make your voice heard: 6:30pm., 70 Burbank St., lower level. For more info, email Sarah at shorsley@ fenwaycdc.org or call 617-267-4637x19.

liaison holds office hours: 1-2 p.m. Fenway Health, 1340 Boylston St. Residents questions & concerns about national issues and/or legislation are welcome.
thu, Mar 15: Friends of Fairsted Lecture: Frederick Law Olmsted 1882-1890: Boston, Brookline & Beyond by Ethan Carr, associate professor of landscape architecture, Univ of Mass. 6 p.m. reception; 7 p.m. lecture. Wheelock College, 43 Hawes St., Brookline. For info, visit www.friendsoffairsted.org. RSVP to friendsoffairsted@ gmail.com or call 617-566-1689x265.

Sun, Mar 18: The Story of the Japanese

Temple Bell in the Back Bay Fens, a docent talk. Seating limited. RSVP recommended. 1-2:30 p.m. Emerald Necklace Conservancy, 125 The Fenway. Call 617-522-1700 or reserve online at www.emeraldnecklace.org.
Mon, Mar 19: Deadline for applying for City

St., corner of Berkeley and Marlboro.

weD, Mar 21: West Fens Community/Police Mtg., 5 p.m.. Landmark Center (401 Park Drive & Brookline Ave), 2nd fl, District 4 Police Substation (next to security desk). Mon, Mar 26: Longwood Medical Area Forum. 6:30-8 p.m. For location or to verify that meeting will be held, email Laura at lfogerty@masco.harvard.edu. Mon, Mar 26: Bostons Dept. of Parks/ Recreation meeting about improvements to Mothers Rest Playground. 6pm at 70 Burbank St., downstairs. tue, Mar 27: Symphony Neighborhood Task

office hours from 5:30-6:30pm at Thorntons Fenway Grille, 100 Peterborough St.

tue, Mar 13: Ward 4 Democratic Committee meeting, 6:30 p.m. South End Branch Sat, Mar 17: Boston Prime Timers, an Library, 685 Tremont St. For more info, educational, cultural, and social of adult contact Janet at 617-267-0231 or email her at gay and bisexual men. 2:30-5:30 p.m. slovinj@aol.com Harriet Tubman House, 566 Columbus weD, Mar 14: BPD Officer Wallace Grant Ave. (at Mass. Ave.). Refreshments at 2:30 Tilford will discuss latest crime data for the p.m., program at 3:30 p.m. $2 donation. West Fens with West Fens Crime Watch. Visit www.bostonprimetimers.org, email Hell distribute free safety whistles and info bostonprimetimers@uses.org or call 617on safety measures and crime prevention. 447-2344. 6 p.m., Peterborough Senior Center, enter Sun, Mar 18: Fenway Garden Society 2012 at rear between 100 & 110 Jersey St. Light applicant info session at 12 p.m. Boston resirefreshments provided. dents interested in membership can meet weD, Mar 14: Mass Turnpike Air Rights with FGS board to learn about governance, Parcel 12-15 CAC meets 6-8 p.m. St. guidelines, regulations, volunteer opporCecilias Parish Hall. Belvidere St. For info, tunities and programs. Tour the Victory email Jonathan at jonathan.greeley.bra@ Gardens and get an application. Email www. cityofboston.gov or call 617-918-4486. fenwayvictorygardens.org for info or to register, contact Mike at mike@fenwayvictorythu, Mar 15: US Rep. Michael Capuanos gardens.org.

of Boston firefighter exam to be held April 28. For more info or to apply online, visit www.cityofboston.gov/fire or call 617-3233024. To view a hard copy of exam flyer visit the Fenway CDC, 70 Burbank St, M-F, 9-5 p.m. and ask for Kris Anderson. Or call her at 617-267-4637x19 or email her at kanderson@fenwaycdc.org.
tue, Mar 20: East Fens Community/Police

meeting., 6 p.m. Morville House, 100 Norway St.

tue, Mar 20: Fenway Family Coalition. Topic for March: voter education and registration. Please bring a dish to share. Call one week ahead to request childcare for kids under 13. 6:30 p.m. 70 Burbank St., lower level. For more info or to request child care, contact Kris Anderson at kanderson@fenwaycdc.org or at 617-267-4637x29. tue, Mar 20: Audubon Circle Neighborhood

Force meeting, 6 p.m. For more info or location, email Johanna in Councilor Rosss office at Johanna.sena@cityofboston.gov or call her at 617-635-4225.

tue, Mar 27: Fenway CDC Urban Village

Committee. Help monitor development in the Fenway and advocate for the neighborhood you want. 6pm, 70 Burbank St., lower level. For more info, email Lilly Jacobson at ljacobson@fenwaycdc.org or call her at 617-267-4637x16. For upcoming BRA meetings and hearings, check the BRA calendar at: www. bostonredevelopmentauthority.org/calendar/ calendar.asp)

Assoc board meeting, 6:30-8:30 p.m.. Harvard Vanguard, 131 Brookline Ave., Annex Bldg., Room 3D. For info, call 617-262-0657.

tue, Mar 20: Ward 5 Democratic Committee meeting; 7 p.m. First Church, 66 Marlboro
toNIAN ER boS St IMpRop 010 bE

The following events take place at the Peterborough Senior Center, located two blocks from Boylston between 100 and 108 Jersey St. (walk down the alley and look left). For more information, call 617-5367154.

Sun, Mar 25: opening for our new gallery

60 going on 25, featuring works of art from artists who started painting after the age of 60. 11:30am-1:30pm

2009 &

recurring
MonDaYS

SPecial
thu, Mar 1: Noon - Berklee sing-along. tue, Mar 6: Tag saleall day. tue, Mar 13: Book swapbring a book to

A R! IVE sbTony D

11am: FilmsMar 5: It Happened One Night (1934); Mar 12: The Bodyguard (1992); Mar 19: A Streetcar Named Desire (1951); Mar 26: The Descendants (2011)
tueSDaYS

Th ank

leave; find a book to take. All day.

birthday of Fenway CDC by helping select 40 pictures that tell 40 stories of our lives.
thu, Mar 15: NoonCelebrate St. Patricks

weD, Mar 14: Help celebrate the 40th

11 a.m: Exercise with Mahmoud 12 noon: More filmsMar 13: The Help (2011); Mar 20: The Artist (2011); Mar 27: The Iron Lady (2011)

Day early with scones, irish tea, and lunch. weDneSDaYS Dont forget to wear the green! 9:45am: yoga with Carmen weD, Mar 21: 11:30am: 2pmLongy School 10noon: Blood pressure check with Joyce students play music while we paint. birthdays in March
thu, Mar 29: Noon - Celebrate all of the thurSDaYS

10am: Whats In the News?