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Brookline School Committee Mandates Employee Vaccines

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Brookline.com
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The Brookline School Committee has established a mandatory vaccination policy for all staff, requiring them to provide proof of vaccination by November 01, 2021.

The law, which took effect on September 09, 2021, applies to all teachers, on-site vendors, including transportation and food service suppliers, on-site contractors, and volunteers, with limited exceptions for medical or religious reasons. Employees who have been granted an exemption must maintain proof of negative CoViD-19 test results.

“The Public Schools of Brookline (PSB) are committed to providing a safe environment during the CoViD-19 pandemic,” stated the School Committee in a statement. “According to public health experts, vaccination is the leading prevention strategy to combat the CoViD-19 pandemic, reduce hospitalizations and severe disease, and keep members of our school community safe.”

PSB personnel will also be obliged to “keep full vaccination,” which means they must obtain any CDC-recommended booster doses for the Johnson & Johnson, Pfizer, or Moderna vaccines within eight (8) weeks of their availability.

The policy took effect immediately for all non-unionized staff and will take effect for unionized personnel whenever the School Committee and the unions reach an agreement.

“Given the urgent need to prevent the spread of the Delta variant, we are hopeful that we will reach agreement quickly,” said the Brookline School Committee.

PSB will offer its third CoViD-19 immunization clinic in the Lincoln School gym on Thursday, September 30, 2021, from 06:30 to 07:30 p.m.

Appointments are available to everyone over the age of 12 by visiting here.

Brookline Office Of Emergency Management Shares Tips To Help Residents During Emergency Preparedness Month

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Brookline.com
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September is Emergency Preparedness Month, and Chief John F. Sullivan and the Brookline Office of Emergency Management would like to remind residents of the importance of having an emergency plan and ensuring they take steps before an emergency in order to stay safe.

Gov. Charlie Baker declared September Emergency Preparedness Month, and residents are urged to utilize resources from the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency to ensure they are ready.

The Brookline Office of Emergency Management would like to share the following helpful tips and recommendations from MEMA, in order to help residents protect themselves, their families and their properties in the event of a natural disaster or other emergency.

Be Informed

Both the town and the Commonwealth offer emergency alerts to keep residents up to date with the latest information about any ongoing emergency.

Brookline residents should sign up for AlertBrookline, which is a notification system that allows residents to receive emergency updates via text, email, or phone call. To enroll online, visit the Town of Brookline specific CodeRED webpage here.

To enroll on a mobile device, text alertbrookline (all one word) to 99411 to receive a direct link to the enrollment form.

To create an account, users will be asked to either log-in via Google, Facebook or Twitter, or create a separate account with a unique username and password. On the next page users will be asked to enter their name, address, phone number, mobile provider, e-mail address and which types of alerts they would like to receive (emergency or emergency/ general).

To learn about additional state and federal emergency notification systems, please visit here.

Build an Emergency Kit

Having an emergency kit ensures you have the items you need at a moment’s notice. An emergency kit should contain:

  • Water: One gallon per person per day for at least three days, plus water purification tablets;
  • Food: At least a three-day supply of non-perishable foods that do not need cooking (ready-to-eat canned meats, fruits, vegetables, or juices, protein or granola bars, cereal, peanut butter, dried fruit, nuts, crackers, baby food, comfort foods);
  • Tools & Supplies: Manual can opener, Radio (battery-powered or hand crank), flashlight or lantern, extra batteries, cell phone with charger, wrench, pliers, and other basic tools;
  • Personal Items: Prescription medications (two-week supply), personal hygiene items, eyeglasses, contact lenses, dentures, extra batteries or supplies for medical equipment, change of clothes, sturdy shoes;
  • Pets: Collar, leash, harness, crate, food, bowls, current photo, license and medical information;
  • Documents: Insurance policies, bank account records, identification cards (IDs), medical information, and other copies of important documents;
  • Money: Extra cash and traveler’s checks (ATMs may not work during a power outage);
  • Other Items: First-aid kit, emergency whistle, waterproof matches/lighter, local area maps, diapers, wipes, formula, and baby food and supplies (if needed).

You should also consider including items like a watch or clock, household chlorine bleach, a camp stove or grill, disposable plates, cups and utensils, duct tape, seasonal items to protect against the elements, books, games, puzzles and other comfort items, as well as sleeping bags or blankets.

Please visit here to download an emergency kit checklist.

Consider Those with Access and Functional Needs Residents with family or household members who are part of a vulnerable population should take special care to consider their needs before an emergency.

This may include, but is not limited to:

  • people with disabilities;
  • people, who live in institutionalized settings;
  • elderly;
  • children;
  • people from diverse cultures;
  • people with limited English proficiency/non-English speakers;
  • people, who are transportation-disadvantaged.

Residents who are caregivers for those with enhanced needs should be mindful of additional items they will need, including:

  • extra eyeglasses and hearing aids;
  • battery chargers;
  • medicine;
  • oxygen;
  • insulin;
  • other medical supplies;
  • copies of important documents, including prescriptions, doctor’s orders and insurance information.

For more information about preparing for emergencies, please visit here.

Brookline Department Of Public Health Announces Additional Sign-Up Dates For Food Coupon Program

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Brookline.com
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The Brookline Department of Public Health announces that it is offering additional opportunities for low-income Brookline residents to register for the Food Coupon program at the Brookline Farmers’ Market.

Brookline individuals and families who reside in Brookline Housing Authority sites, or whose household income meets federal poverty guidelines, are eligible to participate.

Qualifying individuals or families may register as follows:

  • Monday, September 20, 2021, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Brookline Housing Authority, 90 Longwood Avenue;
  • Wednesday, September 22, 2021, from 08:30 a.m. to 09:30 a.m., Town Hall, 333 Washington Street, 1st floor;
  • Thursday, September 23, 2021, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., Brookline Senior Center, 93 Winchester Street.

Individuals and families of two will receive $40 in coupons to purchase fresh fruit, vegetables, and other food products. Households of three or more will receive $80 in coupons. Coupons will be valid at the Farmers’ Market through Thursday, October 28, 2021.

The Department of Public Health recently received a $43,000 grant from the Kresge Foundation to make the Farmers’ Market more accessible to low-income families. The grant provides coupons to 500 Brookline residents and their families for the 2021 Farmers’ Market season.

Brookline was one of 18 local health departments nationwide to be awarded a grant after participating in the Kresge Foundation’s Emerging Leaders in Public Health program. The grant is part of $2.1 million in funding provided to organizations to support their CoViD-19 response and recovery work, boost vaccination rates and address health inequities.

The Brookline Farmers’ Market season continues through November 18, 2021. For more information about the Market, please visit here.

For questions or further information, please contact Lynne Karsten at lkarsten@brooklinema.gov or 617-730-2336, or Darlene Johnson at djohnson@brooklinema.gov or 617-730-2300.

Brookline Public Health Nurse Hosting CoViD-19 Vaccine Clinic

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Brookline.com
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The Town of Brookline invites residents who have not yet been vaccinated against CoViD-19 to attend an open clinic next week.

Public Health Nurse Elizabeth Bennett has a limited supply of Johnson & Johnson vaccines available, and is working to ensure they are distributed to residents in need rather than being allowed to expire.

She will host a clinic on Monday, September 20, 2021, from 09:00 a.m. to 03:00 p.m., and residents can call her directly at 617-730-2320 to make an appointment. The clinic will be held at the Public Health Building, 11 Pierce Street, 2nd floor in the clinical suite.

Johnson & Johnson is a single-dose vaccine and is the only one available at the clinic. Only those who are unvaccinated are eligible to receive a shot, as no booster shots will be available at this clinic.

The clinic is free and open to all unvaccinated individuals ages 18 and older.

For general information about the Johnson & Johnson vaccine, please visit here.

Statement On The Settlement Agreement Between The Town Of Brookline & Mr. Gerald Alston

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Brookline.com
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The Select Board and Gerald Alston have reached an agreement to end the litigation filed by Mr. Alston against the Town of Brookline and other parties.

The $11 million universal settlement is poised to end a painful 11-year saga which deeply harmed Mr. Alston and brought discredit to the Town of Brookline.

The agreement recognizes the harm done to Mr. Alston, starting with the racial slur left on his voicemail by a supervisor in 2010 and the response to that incident in the decade that followed.

This Select Board extends to Mr. Alston our sincere apologies for the Town’s mistakes, and our commitment to seriously address racist and other discriminatory behaviors. We appreciate Mr. Alston’s service to the Town.

Funding of this agreement requires a favorable vote by Town Meeting members at a Special Town Meeting, which the Select Board will be scheduling for Tuesday, October 05, 2021.

Should Town Meeting fail to authorize funding, all parties will return to court where the finances and reputations of the Town and the individual defendants are further at risk, and where the Town will need to expend significant resources at trial.

Should Town Meeting vote favorably on this Warrant Article, this matter will be concluded, and all parties will be able to finally move forward and begin the healing process.

The Select Board believes this settlement is the right thing to do for Mr. Alston and in the best interest of the Town of Brookline, and we urge all Town Meeting Members to support funding it.

Town Of Brookline Advises Residents Of Elevated West Nile Virus Risk Level

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Brookline.com
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Health Commissioner Dr. Swannie Jett announces that the Town of Brookline is now considered at high risk for West Nile Virus, and offer community members of important safety tips to prevent mosquito bites and avoid mosquito-borne diseases.

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health has increased risk levels from moderate to high in communities in Essex, Middlesex, Norfolk and Suffolk Counties due to increasing West Nile Virus activity. West Nile Virus has not been detected in the Town of Brookline.

Mosquitoes are most prevalent from May to August, but remain active until the first time temperatures fall below freezing. According to the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, mosquito bites in the state typically result in skin irritation and itching. However, serious diseases including West Nile virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) are also spread by mosquitoes in rare instances. These viruses can cause illness ranging from a mild fever to more serious disease like encephalitis or meningitis.

EEE was first detected in the state in 1938. The most recent outbreak, which began in 2019, included 12 cases with six fatalities, and the outbreak continued into 2020 with five cases resulting in one fatality.

West Nile virus was first detected in the United States in 1999. Since the majority of those exposed to West Nile virus have no symptoms, it’s difficult to identify exactly how many people have been infected. Only those who develop severe illnesses with West Nile virus are often reported.

The Brookline Department of Public Health encourages residents to follow these tips provided by the DPH:

  • Use insect repellent with DEET any time you are outdoors. Be sure to follow the application directions on the label.
  • Be aware of peak mosquito hours, which are generally from dusk to dawn.
  • Residents who are ages 50 and older, or those who are immunocompromised, should limit outdoor activities from dusk to dawn.
  • Wear protective clothing when outdoors during peak mosquito hours such as long sleeves, long pants, high socks, hats with netting to cover the face, and any other clothing that will cover exposed skin.
  • Use mosquito netting around baby carriages or child playpens when your baby is outdoors.
  • Make sure screens are repaired and are tightly attached to doors and windows.
  • Remove standing water from places such as puddles, ditches, bird baths and gutters, which are breeding grounds for mosquitoes.

The Brookline Department of Public Health also wishes to share the following tips from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:

  • Apply sunscreen first and insect repellent second.
  • Do not apply insect repellent on the skin beneath clothing.
  • Consider buying permethrin-treated clothing and gear, or using permethrin to treat your clothing and gear. Do not use permethrin products directly on skin.
  • Use an indoor insect fogger or indoor insect spray to kill mosquitoes and treat areas where they rest. Always follow label instructions.
  • To prevent mosquito bites when traveling overseas, choose a hotel or lodging with air conditioning or screens on windows and doors, or sleep under a mosquito bed net if you are outside or in a room that does not have screens.

Parents, guardians and caregivers of babies and children are advised:

  • Dress children in long layers to cover their arms and legs.
  • Use mosquito netting to cover strollers and baby carriers outdoors.
  • When using insect repellent on a child, follow instructions on the label and never use products that contain oil of lemon eucalyptus or para-menthane-diol on children under 3 years of age.
  • Never apply insect repellent on a child’s hands, eyes, mouth, cuts, or irritated skin. To apply insect repellent to a child’s face, carefully spray it onto your hands and apply it to the skin.

Massachusetts DPH risk maps may be found here.

More CDC prevention tips may be found here.

Brookline Department Of Public Health Shares CoViD-19 Safety Protocols For Private Schools

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Brookline.com
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Health Commissioner Dr. Swannie Jett announces that the Brookline Department of Public Health has outlined CoViD-19 safety guidelines for private schools.

Effective Monday, August 30, 2021, all private schools in Brookline are required to adhere to guidelines established by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education’s CoViD-19 guidance documents, as well as guidelines established by the Brookline Department of Public Health.

In accordance with state and local guidelines, masks are required for students and staff while indoors except when eating or drinking.

Additionally, the order requires that private schools that offer sports programming and other events must adhere to standards established by the Massachusetts Department of Energy and Environmental Affairs’ CoViD-19 guidance documents, and must receive approval for these programs and events from the Brookline Department of Public Health.

“We would like to thank all private schools and institutions in Brookline for their willingness to comply with these guidelines,” said Dr. Jett. “There are steps that we all must take to put an end to the pandemic, and we feel that these actions are necessary to keep our community safe and healthy.”

How Can We Work To Shift The American Ideals Of Masculinity To Better Align With A Sustainable Future?

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Brookline.com
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Men continue to dominate most sectors of STEM fields, especially science. Quite ironically, however, it is women to tend to lead the charge against environmental abuse, as well as the fight for sustainable practices, both heavily influenced by science and data. This double-edged sword of masculinity-based implicit biases isn’t doing the world any favors, and it is time to make a concerted focus on removing the senseless ideal that caring for the environment somehow makes a man less of a man.

As it is a generational bias, a focus on educating younger men, rather than trying to reverse decades of film, TV, periodicals, and family influence that has caused so many men to view sustainable practices as something for the weak-willed, or reserved for women lends itself to a higher success rate. Here are some ideas on how to help the next generation view these practices as honorable, and even as things that make them tougher, so hopefully there continue to be generations to pass knowledge to.

Toxic Masculinity in the U.S.

Masculinity is the blanket term given to attributes “traditionally” given to men, such as handsome instead of pretty (generally harmless), or hard-worker and leader (much more harmful, especially to young girls). These ideals become the most toxic when they lead to things like misogyny and a sense of male dominance, but there are plenty of other issues stemming from masculinity.

For reasons as inexplicable as bigotry, one of the generationally passed-down views of masculinity is that men are not supposed to care about anything except making money, which is ultimately why we see environmental and social activism being led by notable women such as Amany Killawi of LaunchGood. Many men have been taught that caring about things like the existence of the Earth would make them weak. Senseless, but most implicit biases are, and are simply passed to generations as ways of trying to maintain white, male dominance regardless of research or science that proves these biases false.

Environmentalism is wholly based on research and science, and getting grown men to swallow their prides and accept evidence to something contrary to what they’ve been taught is, in and of itself, a showcase of toxic masculinity, especially when the majority of the individuals conducting work in the field are women.

How to Educate the Next Generation

First, a better understand of what a sustainable living means is important, as so many people think it means having to become vegan and live on a commune. Not at all the case! Unfortunately, simply teaching youngsters about how sustainable practice can help animals and even people could be met with negativity from masculine family members in the home, so making the focus more on deep science is a way to combat that.

However, teaching the data science-heavy aspects and ignoring the fact that saving animal and plant life just because you do not want to be in objection to what a child has been taught (even about masculinity) doesn’t help reverse the effects or end the generational masculinity biases that ultimately cause these issues.

To help with this aspect of toxic masculinity, teaching that masculinity and femininity are not opposites is very important. Young boys can maintain their masculinity and funnel their testosterone into things like physical activity while still caring deeply about the well-being of the planet they call home. Though not all adults will be as receptive to hearing it, it is worth trying to talk about with the older men in your circles, as well.

Town Of Brookline Names Justin Casanova-Davis Acting Finance Director

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Brookline.com
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Town Administrator Mel Kleckner is pleased to announce that Justin Casanova-Davis has been named Brookline’s Acting Finance Director, filling the vacancy created by the resignation of Jeana Franconi, who is relocating to be closer to family.

Casanova-Davis joined the Town of Brookline in 2018 as an Assistant Town Administrator. In that role, he’s been responsible for a variety of projects, including implementing and integrating new OpenGov budget software, which promotes budget transparency townwide.

He has also overseen the allocation of federal CARES Act funding, worked to support goal-setting by the Select Board and town departments, been responsible for preparing the town’s annual report, and served as a liaison to the town’s Financial Advisory Committee. Casanova-Davis also worked as the staff liaison supporting the development of the town’s community engagement strategy.

“Justin has been an important part of not only the town’s response to and recovery from COVID-19, but also the extensive planning and analysis that goes into developing our budget year after year,” Kleckner said. “He is an excellent person to steward our Finance Department through this period of transition, and I look forward to his continued success supporting the town.”

Casanova-Davis began in his new role Monday, August 16, 2021.

Before joining the Town of Brookline, Casanova-Davis worked as the Principal Budget Analyst for the City of Cambridge, and before that as a Budget Analyst for the House Committee on Ways and Means at the State House.

He was recognized with the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA)’s Goldberg-Miller Public Finance Award in 2021, and was a contributor to budgets that earned the organization’s Distinguished Budget awards for fiscal years 2018-2021.

Additionally, Casanova-Davis was one of a dozen participants chosen to spearhead the MassTown Careers initiative to encourage and promote municipal government service. In addition to his work in Brookline, Casanova-Davis serves as a member of the Buildings, Facilities and Capital Expenditures Committee in his hometown of Whitman.

Casanova-Davis earned a bachelor’s degree in political science from Boston College, a graduate certificate in local government, leadership and management from Suffolk University and is nearing completion of a master’s degree in public administration from Suffolk University.

You can see Justin in the following spot from a year ago.

Seeking Executive Search Consultants As Police Chief Hiring Process Begins

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Brookline.com
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Town Administrator Mel Kleckner is pleased to announce the town is beginning the search process for a new police chief.

Last week, the town issued a request for proposals from executive search consultants with a track record of thought leadership on the debate on police reform and race, with the selected consultant ultimately working with the town and stakeholders to identify a nationwide pool of candidates.

The selected consultant will engage members of the community to determine the profile of an ideal candidate, identify, recruit and evaluate possible candidates and perform background checks.

The Town is committed to maintaining an inclusive, equitable and progressive approach to policing, working in partnership with the community to ensure that all people enjoy a high quality of life without fear of crime. The Town has engaged in an intensive review of reforming and reimagining its police services and seeks a chief who will work toward the goals established by the Select Board and the ideals of the community.

The Town Administrator is responsible for recommending a final Chief of Police candidate or candidates to the Select Board. A screening panel of town residents assembled by Kleckner will assist him in identifying finalists for the position.

Proposals will be subject to the town’s by-laws on fair employment practices, non-discrimination in employment, and payment of living wages, among other conditions. Minority and women-owned businesses are encouraged to submit bids.

For detailed information on the request for proposals, requirements and expectations, or to obtain bid / proposal forms, please call 617-730-2195, or visit here.

Proposals from potential consultants will be accepted until September 02, 2021, at 02:00 p.m., when they will be opened and reviewed by the town’s chief procurement officer.

Town Of Brookline To Require Face Coverings Indoors Townwide

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Brookline.com
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Health Commissioner Dr. Swannie Jett announces that face coverings will be required in all indoor, publicly accessible spaces in an effort to mitigate the spread of CoViD-19.

Beginning at 08:00 a.m. on Friday, August 27, 2021, every individual will be required to wear a face covering over their mouth and nose at all times while indoors, including at businesses, restaurants, clubs, places of assembly, municipal buildings and any other location open to the general public. Individuals with medical conditions that prevent them from safely wearing face coverings should wear plastic face shields.

Restaurant customers are required to keep their face coverings on while indoors, unless actively eating or drinking.

The order applies to all residents and visitors ages 2 and older.

Employees at businesses in Brookline must wear a face covering and gloves while conducting service. Additionally, all entry doors must have a mask advisory posted, and establishments must enhance their employee illness surveillance protocols.

Stay Alert As Tropical Storm Henri Tracks Toward New England

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Brookline.com
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The Town of Brookline is recommending that residents stay alert and prepare to take the necessary safety precautions as Tropical Storm Henri is expected to track toward in New England in the coming days.

According to the National Hurricane Center, as of 11:30 a.m. Friday, Tropical Storm Henri is moving west-northwest over the western Atlantic and is about 780 miles south-southwest of Nantucket.

The center of Henri is expected to remain offshore of the East Coast during the next couple of days, but is forecast to track near Cape Cod and the Islands or just offshore Sunday into Monday.

Henri is forecast to intensify into a hurricane on Friday with additional strengthening predicted to occur this weekend. There is a potential for tropical storm or lower-end hurricane force winds along with rough seas. Swells from Henri are expected to reach the East Coast on Friday and continue through the weekend. These swells could cause life-threatening surf and rip currents.

There is a Hurricane Watch in effect for parts of Rhode Island, and a Storm Surge Watch for parts of the South Shore of Massachusetts. However, the exact path and strength of the storm when it gets closer to New England are still uncertain and residents are urged to stay alert and monitor the local forecast.

Town officials are receiving briefings as the situation is updated, and are staying current on storm tracks and forecasts to ensure staffing is in place to deal with any emergency that arises.

Stay informed by receiving alerts, warnings, and public safety information before, during and after emergencies.

Safety precautions residents should follow to prepare for a hurricane or tropical storm include:

  • Don not go out during a hurricane or tropical storm, if possible.
  • Check flashlights and portable radios to confirm they are working. Fully charge your cell phone, laptop and any other devices before the storm.
  • Check the batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
  • If you own a car, making sure its gas tank is at least half full in the event you need to travel. Purchase a car phone charger so that you can charge your device if you lose power at your home.
  • Ensure that you have an emergency kit that has basic medicine and bandages. Include disinfectants, hand sanitizer and other cleaning supplies that you may need in an emergency due to the CoViD-19 pandemic.
  • Have an emergency food supply in case of a power outage. People should have supplies to sustain their families for at least 72 hours.
  • Set your refrigerator and freezer to their coldest settings (remember to reset them back to normal once power is restored). During an outage, minimize the number of times you open the refrigerator or freezer door.
  • Prepare your home by securing or bringing in outdoor objects (patio furniture, children’s toys, trash cans, etc.) that could be swept away or damaged during strong winds or flooding. Also, elevate items in your basement in case of flooding, check your sump pump, unplug sensitive electronic equipment, park vehicles in areas that are unlikely to flood and remove boats from the water.
  • MEMA recommends purchasing a generator to maintain electricity in an outage. Never run a generator indoors, in a garage or with the exhaust facing the home or home air intakes.
  • Pack a bag with important items in case you need to evacuate. Do notforget to include needed medications and any valuable personal belongings.
  • Be a good neighbor. Check on family, friends, and neighbors, especially the elderly, those who live alone, those with medical conditions and those who may need additional assistance.
  • In the event of a hurricane, residents are also encouraged to know if they live or work in a hurricane evacuation zone, develop a family emergency plan and create an emergency kit.

Residents are also encouraged to follow tips provided by the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) in the event of flooding:

  • Do not attempt to drive through large puddles or on flooded roads, which could threaten your safety. Just 6 inches of moving water can knock you down, and 2 feet of water can sweep your vehicle away.
  • If there is a chance of flash flooding, move immediately to higher ground. Flash floods are the number one cause of weather-related deaths in the U.S.
  • If floodwaters rise around your car and the water is not moving, abandon the car and move to higher ground. Do not leave the car and enter moving water.
  • Avoid camping or parking along streams, rivers and creeks during heavy rainfall. These areas can flood quickly and with little warning.
  • After a storm passes through the area, residents should remain cautious. Heavy rain and strong winds can cause a multitude of problems like power outages, fallen debris and floods that often block roads and emergency vehicles, prolonging damage.
  • Call 911 to report emergencies, including downed power lines and gas leaks.
  • Stay away from downed utility wires. Always assume a downed power line is live.
  • If your power is out, follow MEMA’s power outage safety tips. Report power outages to your utility company. Do not call 911 to report an outage or to ask about power restoration.

Additional tropical storm and hurricane safety tips offered by MEMA can be found here.

June 01, 2021 marked the official start of the Atlantic Hurricane Season, which runs through November 30, 2021. Historically, most hurricanes and tropical storms that hit New England occur during August and September.

Brookline Community Foundation Accepting Nominations From Community Members For Racial Equity Grant Program Committee

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Brookline.com
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The Brookline Community Foundation (BCF) is now accepting nominations for the Racial Equity Grant Program Committee which will help support community organizations and efforts to advance racial equity and racial justice for the Brookline community.

The Committee will be comprised of six community members along with three representatives each from the Town of Brookline and BCF. The Town of Brookline and BCF aim to ensure that a majority of Committee members identify as people of color.

Community members can nominate themselves or someone else here. Nominations are due by Wednesday, August 18, 2021.

Responsibilities of the Committee members include:

  • Attending community events that will introduce the Racial Equity Grants Program to the community;
  • Working with the Committee to set priorities for each cycle to strategically deploy available funds addressing racial equity community needs and gaps;
  • Helping to promote the Racial Equity Grant Program within the community in order to engage potential grant applicants and donors;
  • Participating in the grant application review process; this may include review of proposal submissions, calls or visits with applicants, and meetings with the Committee to discuss funding recommendations made to BCF Board of Trustees.
  • Providing input into grant programs and processes for future grant cycles.

For more information about the role, please visit here. Community members will receive a stipend of $750 for their time serving on the Committee.

The Racial Equity Fund is a new collaborative effort between the BCF and the Town of Brookline, which has provided a $500,000 investment to launch the fund.

This new Racial Equity Grant program will provide grants to local nonprofit organizations, other entities, and community efforts working to address racial equity gaps that affect the quality of life for people of color in the areas of economic advancement, education, health and wellness, housing, and more. The Brookline Community Foundation will manage the fund and facilitate the grantmaking program.

For questions, please contact BCF at grants@brooklinecommunity.org or 617-566-4442.

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About Brookline Community Foundation

The Brookline Community Foundation is a public charity dedicated to advancing opportunity and promoting equity through the transformative power of giving. By leveraging core strengths in building philanthropic partnerships, supporting nonprofits and community efforts through grantmaking, and driving the research that informs a shared community agenda, the organization is helping build a better Brookline for all who live, learn, work, and play in the community.

To learn more, please visit here.

Brookline Department Of Public Health Awarded Grant To Help Families In Need Access Farmers’ Market

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Brookline.com
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The Brookline Department of Public Health announces it has received a $43,000 grant from the Kresge Foundation that will help make the Brookline Farmers’ Market more accessible to low-income families.

The grant will provide 500 Brookline residents and their families with coupons to purchase fresh fruit and vegetables as well as other food products during the 2021 farmers’ market season. Individuals and families of two will receive $40 in coupons while households of three or more will receive $80 in coupons. The coupons will be valid at the Farmers’ Market through Thursday, October 28, 2021.

“The CoViD-19 pandemic has exacerbated and exposed health inequities in a number of ways, and this grant will help us to narrow that gap by making the farmers’ market more accessible to lower-income residents,” Dr. Jett said. “We are thankful for this opportunity and are hopeful that residents in need will take advantage of the chance to have access to the healthy fruits and vegetables this season.”

Brookline individuals and families who reside in Brookline Housing Authority sites or whose household income meets federal poverty guidelines are eligible to participate in the program. Beginning in mid-August, staff from the Brookline Department of Public Health will schedule registration dates at the Brookline Senior Center and various BHA sites to register people who qualify for the program.

Information on the location and times to sign up for the program will be available here or by calling 617-730-2295 after August 16, 2021. Coupon books for the Farmers’ Market will be distributed at the time of registration.

Brookline was one of 18 local health departments nationwide to be awarded a grant after participating in the Kresge Foundation’s Emerging Leaders in Public Health program. The grant is part of $2.1 million in funding provided to organizations to support their CoViD-19 response and recovery work, boost vaccination rates and address health inequities.

The Brookline Department of Public Health was the recipient of one of these grants.

“These local health departments are using an array of practical and innovative solutions to address immediate needs and integrate long-term measures to address inequities in access, information and services in low-income and BIPOC communities,” said Monica Valdes Lupi, managing director of Kresge’s Health Program.

The Brookline Farmers’ Market season is ongoing now through November 18, 2021. For more information about the market, please visit here.

Brookline Department Of Public Health Provides Tips To Help Prevent Rodents In Town

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Brookline.com
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Town Administrator Mel Kleckner and Health Commissioner Dr. Swannie Jett wish to provide community members with tips to help prevent rodents following an uptick in rodent sightings in town.

The Brookline Rat Task Force is working to help minimize the presence of rats and other rodents in the community through the mitigation work on public properties, enforcement of state sanitary codes, town by-laws and educating the public.

The Brookline Department of Public Health warns of a possible increase in the prevalence of rats, which may be due to the CoViD-19 pandemic. Closures of restaurants and businesses have decreased the amount of food available to rodents, forcing the animals to search for alternative food and water sources.

“While there normally is an uptick in rodent sightings during the summer, Brookline is experiencing more than usual this year. We are implementing many measures to decrease the presence of rats and other small rodents in town, but these efforts will only be effective if community members take steps to mitigate the problem, too,” said Dr. Jett. “We ask that our community members help us so that this does not become a more widespread issue.”

The Town of Brookline wishes to share the following tips with residents and business owners to help minimize the presence of rodents:

  • Store garbage in covered containers with tight-fitting lids.
  • Inspect the exterior of your property to check if rodents are gaining access inside or around the building. Any openings around doors, windows, drains, or cracks in foundations should be sealed.
  • Obtain the services of a licensed extermination company to carry out integrated pest management techniques if it appears that rodents are gaining access to or are around your property. Residents are reminded that loose poison is prohibited in Brookline.
  • Remove weeds and debris near buildings and yards.
  • Stack lumber and boxes on a rack with a clean open area underneath and always dispose of unused materials.
  • Do not place bird food on the ground and ensure that spillage is cleaned daily.
  • Clean animal waste frequently.

Town Of Brookline Recommends Indoor Mask Use

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Brookline.com
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Health Commissioner Dr. Swannie Jett and the Brookline Department of Public Health and Human Services are urging residents to wear masks while visiting indoor public spaces due to the recent increased spread of CoViD-19.

Face coverings are required in all town buildings and strongly recommended when visiting businesses, indoor venues and other indoor public spaces.

Residents who have not already done so are urged to get vaccinated. Doing so significantly reduces the risk of significant illness due to CoViD-19, including the Delta variant. To find a location where you can be vaccinated, please visit here.

“Wearing a face covering when sharing indoor space with others is a simple step we all can take to help limit the spread of CoViD-19 and protect our community,” Dr. Jett said.

The CDC recently announced that it recommends that those in “areas of substantial and high transmission” should wear a mask in indoor public settings, even if they are fully vaccinated.

According to the CDC, the CoViD-19 Delta variant is far more easily transmissible than the initial CoViD-19 infection. The Delta variant has most recently surged to become the predominant variant – from less than 1% in May to more than 80% of all U.S. CoViD-19 cases in July.

As such, the CDC and the Brookline Department of Public Health encourage residents to get vaccinated and continue masking until they are fully vaccinated. Vaccinations will prevent severe illness, hospitalization and death relating to CoViD-19, while also reducing the spread of the virus in communities.

To learn more about the Delta variant, please visit here.

Brookline Department Of Public Health Declares Heat Emergency, Cooling Centers Open In Town

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Brookline.com
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With temperatures expected to be in the 90s this week, the Brookline Department of Public Health has declared a Heat Emergency effective today through Friday, August 13, 2021, and announces that cooling centers are open around town.

Temperatures are currently forecast to be in the lower-mid 90s in Massachusetts beginning Wednesday and lasting through Friday. High temperatures, along with high humidity levels, are expected to result in high heat indexes, which is the “feel like” temperature, over the next few days.

On Wednesday, August 11, 2021, from 11:00 a.m. to 08:00 p.m., a heat advisory is in effect with heat index values expected to reach up to 100 degrees. Then, from Thursday, August 12, 2021, at 11:00 a.m. until Friday, August 13, 2021, at 08:00 p.m., an excessive heat watch is in effect with dangerously hot conditions and heat index values between 105 and 109 degrees possible.

The available cooling centers include:

  • Brookline Public Safety Building Community Room, 350 Washington Street, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
  • Brookline Senior Center, 93 Winchester Street, Monday – Friday 08:30 a.m. – 05:00 p.m.
  • The Public Libraries of Brookline
    • Main Branch, 361 Washington Street, Monday – Thursday 10:00 a.m. – 09:00 p.m., Friday 10:00 a.m. – 05:00 p.m., closed Saturday and Sunday Coolidge Corner Branch
    • 31 Pleasant Street, Monday and Wednesday 10:00 a.m. – 06:00 p.m., Tuesday and Thursday 10:00 a.m. – 09:00 p.m., Friday and Saturday 10:00 a.m. – 05:00 p.m., closed Sunday Putterham Branch
    • 959 West Roxbury Parkway, Monday and Wednesday 10:00 a.m. – 09:00 p.m., Tuesday and Thursday 10:00 a.m. – 06:00 p.m., Friday 10:00 a.m. – 05:00 p.m., closed Saturday and Sunday

Face coverings are required inside all town buildings in order to limit the spread of CoViD-19.

The Brookline Housing Authority will have air-conditioned community rooms available for residents of 61 Park Street, 90 Longwood Avenue, 50 Pleasant Street, 190 Harvard Street and Colonel Floyd at 28 Foster Street.

The Evelyn Kirrane Aquatics Center, located at 60 Tappan Street, is also open. Brookline residents may use the pool free of charge for open swim only during designated hours while a heat alert is in effect. Residents can call 617-713-5435 for hours and additional details.

In addition, the Brookline Department of Public Health is advising the public of the following:

Tips for Preventing Heat-Related Illnesses:

  • Never leave children, adults or pets alone in a closed, parked vehicle.
  • Keep cool – Spend as much time as you can in cooler surroundings. Use air conditioners to cool the air.
  • Slow down, avoid strenuous activity. If you are not accustomed to working or exercising in a hot environment, start slowly and pick up the pace gradually. If exertion in the heat makes your heart pound and leaves you gasping for breath, stop all activity. Get into a cool or shady area, and rest, especially if you become lightheaded, confused, weak, or faint.
  • Protect yourself from the sun by wearing a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and by putting on sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher 30 minutes prior to going out.
  • Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, light-colored clothing that will cover as much skin as possible.
  • Plan outdoor games and activities for early morning or evening. Rest often in shady areas to allow your body to recover.
  • Avoid extreme temperature changes.
  • When the temperature is in the 90’s, fans will not prevent heat-related illness. Taking a cool shower or bath is a better way to cool off.
  • Drink plenty of fluids, even if you do not feel thirsty, and avoid alcoholic beverages, drinks with caffeine and large amounts of sugar—these actually cause you to lose more body fluid.
  • Use your stove less and try to cook your meals in the cooler part of the day.
  • Keep pets hydrated.
  • Although anyone can suffer from heat-related illness at any time, some people are at greater risk than others.
    • Check regularly on: infants and young children, people aged 65 or older, people who have a mental illness, those who are physically ill or who have heart disease or high blood pressure;
    • Visit adults at risk at least twice a day and closely watch them for signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Infants and young children, of course, need much more frequent watching.
  • Learn the signs and symptoms of heat-related illnesses and how to treat them here.

Town Of Brookline Launches Interactive Website For Residents To Participate In & Track Use Of American Rescue Plan Funding

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Brookline.com
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Town Administrator Mel Kleckner is pleased to announce that the Town of Brookline has launched an interactive website that allows residents and stakeholders to provide feedback and track the utilization of federal funding from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA).

The interactive website for tracking ARPA applications and awards, as well as providing input on how the funding is utilized, is accessible here. To apply for funding, please visit here.

Brookline has received half of the $32.4 million allocated to it so far through the ARPA, which was signed into law on March 11. The program is intended to support the U.S. effort to combat the CoViD-19 pandemic in myriad ways, including offsetting the economic impact of the pandemic and supporting public health efforts meant to curb the spread of the virus.

Of the $1.9 trillion package, $360 billion is intended to benefit the Coronavirus State and Local Recovery Fund, through which Brookline will receive its funding. Brookline may receive an additional nearly $11.5 million via Norfolk County.

Unlike the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act and the Coronavirus Relief Fund, which were intended to allay the direct and immediate impacts of the pandemic, the American Rescue Plan allows for more flexible spending and extends the timeline for recipients to allocate money.

“This funding has the potential to benefit our community in diverse and lasting ways,” Kleckner said. “An important part is ensuring that our residents and stakeholders have a say in how that funding would be best utilized in order to have the most widespread impact, so I encourage residents to take advantage of the opportunity to provide their input and take part in this important process.”

Residents have the opportunity to provide direct feedback on how the funding is used via OpenGov, which the town also utilizes to track its operating budget.

The budget challenge tool is one feature residents are encouraged to use in order to indicate how they would allocate $100 of the money in specific ways across a variety of categories, including:

  • supporting public health response efforts;
  • addressing negative economic impacts;
  • replacing public sector revenue loss;
  • premium pay for essential workers;
  • water and sewer infrastructure;
  • broadband infrastructure Other eligible uses.

After indicating how they would spend the funding, residents may provide a written statement providing more detail about their choices.

Public applications for formal project requests may also be found on the site. The town will utilize the site to provide regular updates on ARPA requests and funding awards, as well as to provide information on eligibility and reporting requirements.

The ARPA also allocates hundreds of billions of dollars for public health and vaccines, assistance for vulnerable populations, education and housing stabilization, economic recovery assistance and direct assistance for families and individuals.

To access the portal and provide feedback, please visit here.

Members of the Brookline community are invited to provide their feedback on how American Rescue Plan funding is utilized across a variety of categories using the town’s OpenGov portal. Each category includes a dropdown where users can indicate how they would allocate a portion of $100 toward specific uses.

Interactive Website Allows Residents To Participate In And Track Use Of American Rescue Plan Funding

By
Brookline.com
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Town Administrator Mel Kleckner is pleased to announce that the Town of Brookline has launched an interactive website that allows residents and stakeholders to provide feedback and track the utilization of federal funding from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA).

The interactive website for tracking ARPA applications and awards, as well as providing input on how the funding is utilized, is accessible here. To apply for funding, please visit here.

Brookline has received half of the $32.4 million allocated to it so far through the ARPA, which was signed into law on March 11, 2021. The program is intended to support the U.S. effort to combat the CoViD-19 pandemic in myriad ways, including offsetting the economic impact of the pandemic and supporting public health efforts meant to curb the spread of the virus.

Of the $1.9 trillion package, $360 billion is intended to benefit the Coronavirus State and Local Recovery Fund, through which Brookline will receive its funding. Brookline may receive an additional nearly $11.5 million via Norfolk County.

Unlike the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act and the Coronavirus Relief Fund, which were intended to allay the direct and immediate impacts of the pandemic, the American Rescue Plan allows for more flexible spending and extends the timeline for recipients to allocate money.

“This funding has the potential to benefit our community in diverse and lasting ways,” Kleckner said. “An important part is ensuring that our residents and stakeholders have a say in how that funding would be best utilized in order to have the most widespread impact, so I encourage residents to take advantage of the opportunity to provide their input and take part in this important process.”

Residents have the opportunity to provide direct feedback on how the funding is used via OpenGov, which the town also utilizes to track its operating budget.

The budget challenge tool is one feature residents are encouraged to use in order to indicate how they would allocate $100 of the money in specific ways across a variety of categories, including:
Supporting public health response efforts Addressing negative economic impacts Replacing public sector revenue loss Premium pay for essential workers Water and sewer infrastructure Broadband infrastructure Other eligible uses After indicating how they would spend the funding, residents may provide a written statement providing more detail about their choices.

Public applications for formal project requests may also be found on the site. The town will utilize the site to provide regular updates on ARPA requests and funding awards, as well as to provide information on eligibility and reporting requirements.

The ARPA also allocates hundreds of billions of dollars for public health and vaccines, assistance for vulnerable populations, education and housing stabilization, economic recovery assistance and direct assistance for families and individuals.

To access the portal and provide feedback, please visit here.

Members of the Brookline community are invited to provide their feedback on how American Rescue Plan funding is utilized across a variety of categories using the town’s OpenGov portal. Each category includes a dropdown where users can indicate how they would allocate a portion of $100 toward specific uses.

Members Of Community Partnership Committee To Support Engagement Around The 2022 U.S. Open

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Brookline.com
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Town Administrator Mel Kleckner is pleased to announce the appointed members of the Community Partnership Committee, that will work to identify and plan ways in which the Brookline community will benefit from the 2022 U.S. Open.

The appointees representing the Town are Malcolm Cawthorne from the Commission on Diversity, Inclusion and Community Relations, David Gladstone from the Chamber of Commerce, Ken Lewis from the Economic Development Advisory Committee, Natalia Linos from the Climate Action Committee and Wendy Sheridan from the Park and Recreation Commission.

The appointees representing The Country Club are William Curry, William Goldthwait, Glenn Johnson, Kristen LaCount and Bernard Lee.

The Committee is a joint partnership between the Town of Brookline and The Country Club. It will be led jointly by Brookline residents Ken Goldstein and Kate Leness. Heather Hamilton will serve as the Select Board Liaison.

“I would like to congratulate the committee members for being chosen to play a key role in such a historical event,” said Kleckner. “I look forward to seeing the good work that they do to promote a positive, fun and exciting environment for the residents of Brookline leading up to the 2022 U.S. Open.”

The Select Board authorized the formation of a Community Partnership Committee, which will plan community initiatives and programs reflecting the Town’s diversity and values. The Committee will also work to identify ways in which the U.S. Open — a landmark event that will bring together the world’s best golfers and fans from around the globe — can benefit local nonprofits and other organizations, including small businesses over the yearlong planning period.

Potential functions of the Community Partnership Committee include:

  • Recommending policies reflective of community values;
  • Suggesting mechanisms by which local businesses can benefit from the U.S. Open;
  • Planning events promoting the U.S. Open, building enthusiasm and enhancing the goodwill around the Championship, ensuring it’s a community-focused event;
  • Administering the allocation of fundraising revenue to local philanthropic and charitable groups;
  • Highlighting the roles Brookline and The Country Club have in the history of golf;
  • Working to identify opportunities for jobs and volunteer opportunities for local residents. The United States Golf Association (USGA) is committed to equitable hiring and contracting, as well as environmentally sustainable operations.

The U.S. Open will be played at The Country Club from June 13-19, 2022. It will be the fourth U.S. Open in the club’s history and its 17th USGA championship, second-most all-time. The championship was last played in Brookline during summer 1988. The first U.S. Open at The Country Club remains one of the most significant events in golf, when Brookline amateur golfer Francis Ouimet upset two of the game’s contemporary stars, Harry Vardon and Ted Ray, to win the 1913 edition.

During the championship, the USGA will use the Robert T. Lynch Municipal Golf Course which is adjacent to The Country Club. The USGA will use Larz Anderson Park as a 600-space parking lot and shuttle depot, as well as The Department of Public Works landfill facility for storage.

The Town of Brookline and the USGA have agreed that the USGA will:

  • Pay $150,000 to use the Robert T. Lynch Municipal Golf Course;
  • Reimburse the Robert T. Lynch Municipal Golf Course for lost revenue due to the championship, including greens fees, cart and club rentals, driving range fees, concessions and merchandise sales to the tune of around $250,000 to $350,000;
  • Reimburse the Town of Brookline for any work needed to repair damage to the Robert T. Lynch Golf Course resulting from its use during the championship;
  • Pay $50,000 to use Larz Anderson Park with an additional $100,000 contribution for a to-be-determined capital project;
  • Reimburse the Town of Brookline for any work needed to repair damage to Larz Anderson Park resulting from its use as a parking area during the championship.

Town Of Brookline Shares Updated Face Covering Guidance For Inside Town Buildings

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Brookline.com
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Town Administrator Mel Kleckner and Health Commissioner Dr. Swannie Jett announce new face covering guidance for inside town buildings brought on by an increase in CoViD-19 cases locally and regionally.

Due to the increase in cases and out an abundance of caution, effective Monday, August 09, 2021, the town will require all members of the public to wear face coverings while inside public town buildings.

Residents are also encouraged to visit the town’s website, BrookOnLine, to access a number of virtual offerings, including online bill payment.

Town staff are also required to wear face coverings when interacting with members of the public. Staff will be required to wear a face mask when in common areas of town buildings, including elevators, hallways and shared office spaces.

“With CoViD-19 cases in Brookline steadily climbing, we decided that the town needed to reassess the current building protocols and take this step to ensure the continued safety of residents and staff,” said Commissioner Jett. “We ask that residents wear masks inside public town buildings, but we also encourage residents to get vaccinated in order to protect their family, friends and neighbors from the virus.”

The Brookline Department of Public Health continues to conduct contact tracing to help prevent the spread of CoViD-19 in town. Currently, there are more cases on a weekly basis in Brookline than there were at this time last year. This is similar to case trends across the state and nation as a result of the highly contagious nature of the Delta variant.

Additionally, residents and staff are urged to get vaccinated if they have not already done so. Vaccinations significantly reduce the risk of significant illness due to CoViD-19, including the Delta Variant.

While the Delta Variant is causing some cases of breakthrough symptomatic infection in the United States, the vast majority of CoViD-19 hospitalizations and deaths nationwide are among unvaccinated individuals, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The most significant levels of spread, and most severe cases of illness and death associated with CoViD-19 — including Delta variant cases — are occurring in places with low vaccination rates. Additionally, vaccinated individuals represent a very small portion of overall Delta Variant transmission.

To find a location where you can be vaccinated, please visit here.

Brookline Libraries To Require Masks Beginning Next Week

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Brookline.com
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Director Sara Slymon announces that, beginning August 02, 2021, the Public Library of Brookline will require all patrons to wear masks while inside library buildings.

This change is being made out of an abundance of caution as a result of the increased spread of the Delta variant of the coronavirus, which has been found to be more contagious than previous versions.

The requirement applies to unvaccinated and vaccinated patrons alike.

“While we know this is not the progress we hoped for earlier this summer, we believe that this is the right step at this time,” Slymon said. “Above all, we want everyone to feel safe and welcome at the town’s libraries. We all made a lot of sacrifices in the last year-and-a-half, and while nobody is happy about this change at this time, it is a small step that we hope can make a big difference when paired with increased vaccination within our community.”

Library staff had already been wearing masks since facilities reopened to the public and will continue to do so alongside patrons until further notice.

Brookline’s libraries welcome approximately 1,600 patrons daily, and library leaders will be available Monday morning to greet patrons and answer any questions about the new guidance.

The Department of Public Health has issued a new mask advisory in light of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s updated guidance. Fully vaccinated individuals are advised to wear a mask or face covering when indoors outside of your home if you have a weakened immune system, are at increased risk for COVID-19 or if someone in your household is at increased risk or unvaccinated. Masks are still mandatory for all individuals on public and private transportation systems (including rideshares, livery, taxi, ferries, MBTA, Commuter Rail and transportation stations), in healthcare facilities and in other settings hosting vulnerable populations, such as congregate care settings.

Brookline Health & Human Services Urges Community To Take Precautions Against West Nile Virus After Risk Level Elevated

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Brookline.com
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Health Commissioner Dr. Swannie Jett announces that the Town of Brookline has been deemed a moderate risk community for West Nile Virus by state officials, and urges residents to take precautions to prevent mosquito-borne illness.

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) announced today that Brookline’s risk level has been elevated to moderate following the detection of increased WNV activity in the Boston area. Although there have been no human cases of WNV reported this year, it is important for residents to be aware and take precautions to prevent mosquito bites.

“Residents should always be taking precautions to protect themselves from mosquito-borne illness,” Dr. Jett said. “There are simple steps everyone can take to prevent mosquito bites, breeding and infestations, and reduce their risk of coming into contact with a mosquito carrying the virus.”

WNV is most commonly transmitted to humans by the bite of a mosquito infected with the virus. In 2019, there were five human cases of WNV in Massachusetts. While the virus can infect people of all ages, people over the age of 50 are at a higher risk for severe infection.

Brookline works to prevent the breeding of mosquitoes by treating all stormwater catch basins in town and wetland areas, and by working with property owners to remove large sources of standing water like abandoned swimming pools.

Additionally, the Town of Brookline recommends the following safety tips:

Mosquito-Proof Your Home:

  • Drain standing water, Mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water. Limit the number of places around your home for mosquitoes to breed by either draining to discarding items that hold water. Check rain gutters and drains. Empty and unused flowerpots and wading pools, and change water in birdbaths frequently.
  • Install or repair screens. Keep mosquitoes outside by having tightly-fitting screens on all of your windows and doors.

Avoid Mosquito Bites:

  • Apply insect repellent when outdoors. Use a repellent with DEET (N, N-diethyl-m-toluamide), permethrin, picaridin (KBR 3023), oil of lemon eucalyptus [p-methane 3, 8-diol (PMD)] or IR3535 according to the instructions on the product label. DEET products should not be used on infants under two months of age and should be used in concentrations of 30 precent or less on older children. Oil of lemon eucalyptus should not be used on children under 3-years-old.
  • Be aware of peak mosquito hours. The hours from dusk to dawn are peak biting times fro many mosquitoes. Consider rescheduling outdoor activities that occur during evening or early morning.
  • Clothing can help reduce mosquito bites. Wearing long-sleeves, long pants and socks when outdoors will help keep mosquitoes away from your skin.

For more information about WNV, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website by visiting here.

Veterans Tactical Reintegration Project Fundraiser

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Brookline.com
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The Tactical Reintegration Project is a non-profit organization that helps military veterans integrate back into society after getting out of the service. TRP has teamed up with the New England SCUBA diving and freediving community, who are happy to volunteer their efforts in this project.

The Corporation and its founding members know that often funds are tight or nonexistent for participating in outdoor activities such as SCUBA and have developed a program with experts in the local dive community, who will help not just by donating needed equipment and services at substantially reduced pricing but can teach certification courses in SCUBA and freediving, to many individuals, including those with disabilities. This allows the Corporation to offer SCUBA and freediving activities either free of charge or at minimal cost to these servicemen and women, veterans, and their families.

The event is called “Winging it for Diving,” which is a wing eating contest that takes place at Hamilton Bar and Restaurant, located at 1366 Beacon Street, Brookline, MA 02446.

Up to 30 teams will pay an entrance fee to compete which will raise funds for the TRP. There will be special guests and Harpoon Brewery will be sponsoring the event.

Further information about the Tactical Reintegration Project and the “Winging it for Diving” event could be found here and here respectively.

Brookline Residents Reminded Of Opportunity To Volunteer For 2022 U.S. Open

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Brookline.com
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Town Administrator Mel Kleckner and the Town of Brookline wish to remind residents to register to volunteer for the 122nd U.S. Open Championship, which will be held at The Country Club from June 13-19, 2022.

Roughly 180 unpaid volunteer slots are still available to Brookline residents to fill positions such as Fan and Hospitality Services and Merchandising. Volunteers must commit to at least four shifts, lasting four to six hours each, during the championship week.

Volunteers will receive a meal voucher for each assigned shift. Volunteers also will receive a personalized volunteer credential valid for all seven days of the championship.

All 2022 U.S. Open volunteers will be required to purchase the Volunteer Package for $244.45. This package will include apparel pieces specifically designed for the championship’s volunteer program: Two Ralph Lauren golf shirts, a Ralph Lauren jacket, a Ralph Lauren quarter-zip, a piece of headwear, a water bottle, a commemorative lapel pin, and a transparent drawstring bag.

Brookline residents may register to volunteer here. Volunteer positions for non-residents have been filled. Non-residents, who wish to have their names placed on a waitlist, are asked to visit here.

Questions regarding the 2022 U.S. Open Championship may be directed to the USGA’s Championship Office at 2022usopen@usga.org.

Vaccine ACT Video Project To Promote CoViD-19 Vaccine Awareness

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Brookline.com
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Town Administrator Mel Kleckner is pleased to share that the Office of Diversity, Inclusion and Community Relations (ODICR), in partnership with Brookline Interactive Group (BIG), launched the Brookline Vaccine ACT Video Project earlier this summer to promote CoViD-19 vaccine awareness and understanding.

As a part of the project, a new video is being released every Friday during the summer, with the goal of diminishing the fears, anxieties and doubts some have about the CoViD-19 vaccines. With the help of local community members, health experts, public safety officials, residents and more, the videos will provide information about the vaccines and answer common questions.

The third video in the series was released today and focuses on addressing worries people of color specifically may have about getting vaccinated.

“This project gives community members the space to participate and share their fears and anxiety through their own testimonials,” said ODICR Community Engagement Strategist Carolina San Miguel. “With this project, we are aiming to help the community better understand what the CoViD-19 vaccine is because it is okay to ask questions. We are here to give information and help and support in any way that we can.”

Three vaccines have been granted emergency use authorization by the Food and Drug Administration: the two-dose Pfizer and Moderna vaccines, as well as the single-dose Johnson & Johnson vaccine. To download PDF factsheets for the Moderna, Pfizer and Johnson & Johnson (Janssen) vaccines, please visit here, here and here respectively.

For questions about the CoViD-19 vaccine, please email the Brookline Vaccine Call Center at vaccine@brooklinema.gov or call 617-879-5636.

CoViD-19 vaccines are free and available to anyone age 12 and older. Residents who wish to get vaccinated can register by visiting here.

Residents interested in learning more about the Office of Diversity, Inclusion, and Community Relations or those who are interested in getting involved with the local community through projects, programming and events, please contact San Miguel at csanmiguel@brooklinema.gov.

For more information about Brookline’s CoViD-19 response and resources, please visit here.

The videos in the Brookline Vaccine ACT Project were created with the help of BIG Production Manager Corbin Riedel (left) and Production Intern Avery Merton (right). Also pictured, Dr. Jacques Carter (middle), who was featured in the video series.

Update Ahead Of Tropical Storm Elsa, Sign Up For Emergency Alerts

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Brookline.com
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Emergency Management Director John F. Sullivan is recommending that residents take the necessary safety precautions to prepare themselves for potentially serious storm impacts as Tropical Storm Elsa is forecast to impact New England late tonight into Friday.

Tropical Storm Elsa is expected to pass near/over southeast New England on Friday as a tropical storm. A Tropical Storm Warning is in effect for Brookline in the surrounding area, meaning sustained winds of 34-73 mph are expected in the region. Tropical Storm Elsa is projected to hit the Northeast on Friday morning and exit the region by Friday night. Heavy rains of 1 to 3 inches, which could lead to flooding, strong winds over 40 mph and isolated tornadoes are possible during the storm.

A Flash Flood Watch is also currently in effect across much of southeast New England due to the potential for flash flooding caused by heavy rainfall.

Residents are reminded that the forecast can change quickly and with little warning, and they should monitor the local forecast throughout the day. Members of the community who have not already done so are urged to sign up for AlertBrookline (CodeRED) to receive timely updates on the storm’s impacts to the community.

Sign-up is available either online or on a mobile device by visiting here. You can also enroll by typing “alertbrookline” to 99411.

The Department of Public Works, Police Department, and Fire Department are coordinating response preparations. Eversource is activating its Emergency Response Center at 06:00 a.m. on Friday morning and will be working closely with the Town through the storm. The Department of Public Works will have crews monitoring flooding conditions, forestry crews will be on standby, equipment and operators are ready to clear debris, and roads will be cleared and/or closed temporarily as necessary for public safety.

Only trained personnel with the appropriate diagnostic equipment can determine whether or not a particular line is energized. Stay at least ten feet away from all downed lines, and call 911 report the issue. Residents are encouraged to stay in a secure dry location for the duration of the storm.

Severe Weather Safety Tips: The Town of Brookline wishes to share the following general reminders for staying safe and preparing for extreme weather:

  • Remove or secure all outdoor furniture or loose objects in advance of the storm so that they do not become hazardous projectiles.
  • To minimize local flooding, residents and businesses are encouraged to clear any blocked catch basins close to their property.
  • Residents are strongly encouraged to eliminate non-essential travel during the storm, since road conditions could become hazardous.
  • All residents and visitors should avoid downed debris, trees or powerlines.

The Town of Brookline suggests that all residents follow tips provided by the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) in the event of flooding:

  • Do not attempt to drive through large puddles or on flooded roads, which could threaten your safety. Just 6 inches of moving water can knock you down, and 2 feet of water can sweep your vehicle away.
  • If there is a chance of flash flooding, move immediately to higher ground. Flash floods are the number one cause of weather-related deaths in the U.S.
  • If floodwaters rise around your car and the water is not moving, abandon the car and move to higher ground. Do not leave the car and enter moving water.
  • Avoid camping or parking along streams, rivers and creeks during heavy rainfall. These areas can flood quickly and with little warning.

MEMA recommends purchasing a generator to maintain electricity despite an outage. Generators should always be kept outside since they emit deadly carbon monoxide fumes that can quickly accumulate if indoors.

Additional safety precautions residents should follow include:

  • Not going out during a hurricane or tropical storm, if possible.
  • Checking flashlights and portable radios to confirm they’re working.
  • Fully charging your cell phone, laptop and any other devices before the storm.
  • If you own a car, making sure its gas tank is at least half full in the event you need to travel. Purchase a car phone charger so that you can charge your device if you lose power at your home.
  • Ensuring that you have an emergency kit that has basic medicine and bandages.
    • Include disinfectants, hand sanitizer and other cleaning supplies that you may need in an emergency due to the CoViD-19 pandemic.
  • Setting your refrigerator and freezer to their coldest settings (remember to reset them back to normal once power is restored). During an outage, minimize the number of times you open the refrigerator or freezer door.
  • Preparing your home by securing or bringing in outdoor objects (patio furniture, children’s toys, trash cans, etc.) that could be swept away or damaged during strong winds or flooding.
  • Being prepared by packing a bag with important items in case you need to evacuate. Do not forget to include needed medications and any valuable personal belongings.
  • Being a good neighbor. Check on family, friends, and neighbors, especially the elderly, those who live alone, those with medical conditions and those who may need additional assistance.

After a storm passes through the area, residents should remain cautious. Heavy rain and strong winds can cause a multitude of problems like power outages, fallen debris and floods that often block roads and emergency vehicles, prolonging damage.

  • Call 911 to report emergencies, including downed power lines and gas leaks.
  • Stay away from downed utility wires. Always assume a downed power line is live.
  • If your power is out, follow MEMA’s power outage safety tips here. Report power outages to your utility company. Do not call 911 to report an outage or to ask about power restoration.
  • Resources for local residential services:

In addition to AlertBrookline updates, residents should monitor weather.gov, NOAA Weather Radio and local news outlets for official storm information. All emergency calls should be directed to 911. Non-emergency calls for service should be directed to 617-730-2222.

Town Of Brookline & The Brookline Community Foundation To Launch Racial Equity Fund

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Brookline.com
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The Town of Brookline and the Brookline Community Foundation will launch a Racial Equity Fund to support community organizations and efforts to advance racial equity and racial justice for the Brookline community.

“As one of the first communities in Massachusetts to allocate mitigation fees from cannabis dispensary revenue to fund racial justice grantmaking, I am excited we’ve reached this milestone and look forward to the next phases of this program launching in the coming months,” said Mel Kleckner, Town Administrator for the Town of Brookline.

The Racial Equity Fund will be a new collaborative effort between Brookline Community Foundation and the Town of Brookline, which has generously provided a $500,000 investment to seed the fund.

“The creation of this dedicated fund signals a tremendous and unprecedented step in Brookline for racial justice,” said Giselle Ferro Puigbo, Executive Director of the Brookline Community Foundation. “Reversing the impacts of racial injustice will require persistent effort for many years to come, and by leveraging our partnership with the Town and actively seeking other funding partners, we can move resources more equitably and strategically in commitment to the strengths and visions of communities of color.”

This new program will provide grants to local nonprofit organizations, other entities, and community efforts working to address racial equity gaps that affect the quality of life for people of color in the areas of economic advancement, education, health and wellness, housing, and more.

“We will continue our core work to support Brookline via strategic grantmaking and responding to community needs, building on learnings from the past year and more explicitly centering equity in our work to build a better Brookline for all,” said Gioia Perugini, Vice Chair of the Brookline Community Foundation’s Board of Trustees.

The Brookline Community Foundation will manage the fund and facilitate the grantmaking program. Consistent with the fund’s purpose, the Brookline Community Foundation will assemble a Racial Equity Fund Committee comprised of community members, representatives from the Town of Brookline, and representatives from the Brookline Community Foundation—marking the first participatory grantmaking program in the foundation’s history.

Both representatives from the Town of Brookline and the Brookline Community Foundation aim to ensure that a majority of Committee members identify as people of color.

“The cornerstone of racial equity is sharing resources and decision-making power in a way that fundamentally supports the self-determination of people of color. That is why having a majority of people of color on the Racial Equity Fund Committee is important. I hope others join us in celebrating this milestone and in continuing to build a more equitable community together,” said Select Board Vice Chair Dr. Raul Fernandez.

Immediately neighboring Boston, Brookline is one of New England’s largest towns and is a suburban, residential community with urban characteristics, including rapid transit accessibility and a mature, built-out downtown core of its own. However, nearly all of its land is zoned for residential use. Brookline began a transition from a largely agricultural community to its current suburban character in the early 1900s, and is home to approximately 59,000 residents — many of whom work in the management, professional services, medical and academic sectors.

The Brookline Community Foundation is a public charity dedicated to advancing opportunity and promoting equity through the transformative power of giving. By leveraging core strengths in building philanthropic partnerships, supporting nonprofits and community efforts through grantmaking, and driving the research that informs a shared community agenda, the organization is helping build a better Brookline for all who live, learn, work, and play in the community.

To learn more, please visit here.

Happy 4th Of July

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Brookline.com
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July 04, 1776
Independence Day in America

We celebrate the day we declared independence from Britain, long preceding the day we actually attained it.

That’s badass.

Neil deGrasse Tyson

Brookline Department Of Public Health Declares Heat Emergency

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Brookline.com
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With temperatures expected to be in the 90’s through Wednesday, the Brookline Department of Public Health has declared a Heat Emergency beginning Sunday, June 27 and ending Thursday, July 1 and announces that cooling centers are open around town.

The available cooling centers include:

  • Brookline Public Safety Building Community Room
    • 350 Washington Street, open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
  • Brookline Senior Center
    • 93 Winchester Street, open Monday – Friday, between the hours of 08:30 a.m. and 05:00 p.m.
  • The Public Libraries of Brookline
    • Main Branch, 361 Washington Street, open Monday – Thursday, 10:00 a.m. – 09,:00 p.m., Friday, 10:00 a.m. – 05:00 p.m., closed Saturday and Sunday
  • Coolidge Corner Branch
    • 31 Pleasant Street, Monday and Wednesday 10:00 a.m. – 06:00 p.m., Tuesday and Thursday 10:00 a.m. – 09:00 p.m., Friday and Saturday 10:00 a.m. – 05:00 p.m., closed Sunday Putterham Branch
    • 959 West Roxbury Parkway, Monday and Wednesday 10:00 a.m. – 09:00 p.m., Tuesday and Thursday 10:00 a.m. – 06:00 p.m., Friday 10:00 a.m. – 05:00 p.m., closed Saturday and Sunday

The Brookline Housing Authority will have air-conditioned community rooms available for residents of 61 Park Street, 90 Longwood Avenue, 50 Pleasant Street, 190 Harvard Street and Colonel Floyd (at 28 Foster Street).

The Evelyn Kirrane Aquatics Center, located at 60 Tappan Street, is also open. Brookline residents may use the pool free of charge for open swim only during designated hours while a heat alert is in effect. Residents can call 617-713-5435 for hours and additional details.

“The high temperatures that our area is expected to experience over the next few days can be very dangerous,” said Health Commissioner Dr. Swannie Jett. “We urge everyone to keep cool by limiting time outdoors, taking advantage of town cooling centers and staying hydrated. If residents do spend time outdoors, we encourage you to avoid strenuous activity and protect yourself from the sun.”

In addition, the Brookline Department of Public Health is advising the public of the following:

Tips for Preventing Heat Related Illnesses:

  • NEVER leave children, adults or pets alone in a closed, parked vehicle.
  • KEEP COOL – Spend as much time as you can in cooler surroundings. Use air conditioners to cool the air.
  • Slow down, avoid strenuous activity. If you are not accustomed to working or exercising in a hot environment, start slowly and pick up the pace gradually. If exertion in the heat makes your heart pound and leaves you gasping for breath, STOP all activity. Get into a cool or shady area, and rest, especially if you become lightheaded, confused, weak, or faint.
  • Protect yourself from the sun by wearing a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and by putting on sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher 30 minutes prior to going out.
  • Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, light-colored clothing that will cover as much skin as possible.
  • Plan outdoor games and activities for early morning or evening. Rest often in shady areas to allow your body to recover.
  • Avoid extreme temperature changes.
  • When the temperature is in the 90’s, fans will not prevent heat related illness. Taking a cool shower or bath is a better way to cool off.
  • Drink plenty of fluids, even if you do not feel thirsty, and avoid alcoholic beverages, drinks with caffeine and large amounts of sugar—these actually cause you to lose more body fluid.
  • Use your stove less and try to cook your meals in the cooler part of the day.
  • Keep pets hydrated.
  • Although any one at any time can suffer from heat-related illness, some people are at greater risk than others.
    • Check regularly on: infants and young children, people aged 65 or older, people who have a mental illness, those who are physically ill or who have heart disease or high blood pressure.
    • Visit adults at risk at least twice a day and closely watch them for signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Infants and young children, of course, need much more frequent watching.
  • Learn the signs and symptoms of heat-related illnesses and how to treat them here.

Community Partnership Committee To Support Engagement Around The 2022 U.S. Open

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Brookline.com
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Town Administrator Mel Kleckner and The Country Club’s General Manager and Chief Operating Officer, Kristen LaCount, are pleased to welcome the 2022 U.S. Open to Brookline, and announce that a Community Partnership Committee has been established to plan and program community benefits resulting from the championship event coming to town.

The Select Board has authorized the formation of a Community Partnership Committee, which will begin work to plan community initiatives and programs reflecting the Town’s diversity and values. The Committee will also work to identify ways in which the U.S. Open — a landmark event that will bring together the world’s best golfers and fans from around the globe — can benefit local nonprofits and other organizations, including small businesses over the yearlong planning period.

The U.S. Open will be played at The Country Club from June 13-19, 2022. It will be the fourth U.S. Open in the club’s history and its 17th United States Golf Association championship, second-most all-time. The championship was last played in Brookline during summer 1988. The first U.S. Open at The Country Club remains one of the most significant events in golf, when Brookline amateur golfer Francis Ouimet upset two of the game’s contemporary stars, Harry Vardon and Ted Ray, to win the 1913 edition.

“This event is an extraordinary opportunity to celebrate Brookline for the special place that it is, and puts our community on the world’s stage for one of golf’s most significant annual events,” Kleckner said. “All of Brookline should take pride in hosting this event, which recognizes both Brookline’s important place in the game’s history and everything it has to offer in welcoming tourism that will provide vital support for our economy.”

Potential functions of the Community Partnership Committee will include;
Recommend policies reflective of community values. Suggest mechanisms by which local businesses can benefit from the U.S. Open. Plan events promoting the U.S. Open, building enthusiasm and enhancing the goodwill around the Championship, ensuring it’s a community-focused event. Administer the allocation of fundraising revenue to local philanthropic and charitable groups. Highlight the roles Brookline and The Country Club have in the history of golf. Working to identify opportunities for jobs and volunteer opportunities for local residents. The Committee is a joint partnership between the Town of Brookline and The Country Club. It will be led jointly by Brookline residents Ken Goldstein and Kate Leness, and will feature five additional appointees representing the Town and five from The Country Club.

“The Country Club looks forward to continuing our long partnership with the Town of Brookline and working together to make the U.S. Open a fantastic event for the community,“ LaCount said.

“This group will be an important part of the overall effort to ensure that the 2022 U.S. Open provides not only a historic golf tournament, but also leaves behind an enduring positive impact to the Town of Brookline,” Kleckner said.

What Is Going On With The Legal Betting Situation In Maryland?

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Brookline.com
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The United States can be a complicated place for many subjects. Whilst there are some laws that are universal, like the crimes of murder, theft and assault, others fall into a more grey areas. Gambling is one such area that is not seen in the same way across the country. That is because the US is made up of 50 States, and each State has its own laws and policies that it passes.

There are some places where gambling is fine, such as in Las Vegas, Nevada, for example. However, many other States frown upon the subject and it is illegal to actually place bets and gamble money. But one place is now changing things up when it comes to sports betting. That place? Maryland.

As of the 1st of June, sports betting will be legal in Maryland at its six casinos; M&T Bank Stadium, Camden Yards and Fed-Ex Field. There are also possibilities for Pimlico in Baltimore and Laurel Park, both horse racing venues, as well as state fairgrounds in Timonium that are eligible to apply for licences.

It is not just physical sites where the law is easing up though. With online betting sites in Maryland also now accepting wagers.

This is big not only for the six million people who live in Maryland, but also for the gambling industry too. Opening up the equivalent in population terms of a small country to companies who operate gambling related businesses.

How it happened

Back in November of 2020, voters in Maryland overwhelmingly voted in favour of legalising sports betting. A mandatory step in Maryland, with the state’s constitution requiring a public vote if there was ever to be any expansion of commercial gambling activities in Maryland.

Proceedings were halted due to COVID-19, but picked back up again in January 2021, with Maryland lawmakers tasked at working everything out that would need to be put into place. Tasks such as deciding licensing fees and taxes, what type of events could be covered, and what betting options will be permitted.

The bill for the new legislation, Bill HB 940, eventually passed and was approved by the House, being signed into law by Governor Larry Hogan on May 18, 2021. There were some sweeping changes before it was signed into legislation, but the ultimate goal was achieved and sports betting became legalised in Maryland.

Pros and Cons of legalising gambling now

Maryland was actually the last of the Mid-Atlantic states to actually legalize sports betting. So despite this groundbreaking change that was voted in by the people in a referendum, they do so being slightly behind the times of surrounding areas. This can be both a good and a bad thing.

It is bad, because it means that with other areas being open to sports betting companies first, Maryland may lose out on some investment. Especially since COVID-19 has impacted so many businesses.

The one positive about having waited until last though, is that they have been able to witness everyone else implement these new gambling systems in surrounding states. Meaning they can learn from the mistakes of others, and hopefully get things correct the first time round of trying. Thus leaving the system with less issues, and less vulnerable to manipulation.

What has happened since the news broke?

It is still early days since the legislation passed, and the initial goals were to have Maryland sportsbooks up and running by the start of the upcoming 2021 NFL Season. Failing that, because there are always obstacles to pass as you look to implement new laws, the 2021 World Series would be the later expected date.

However, that does not mean some things have not moved quickly since the papers were signed. Just a day after Hogan put his pen to paper, the Baltimore Ravens quickly announced BetMGM as their official gaming partner. There will now be signage and advertising at the Raven’s M&T Stadium as mentioned above, as well as both parties working on other cross-promotional materials.

Since then, PointsBet Sportsbook secured themselves access to the Maryland sports betting market. They entered a partnership with the Riverboat on the Potomac, which was one of four licenced OTBs.

There is still some work

Whilst a lot of progression has been made since the vote passed in November 2020, there is still some work to be done. Legislators in Maryland are still finalising rules and restrictions based around sports betting. Some of those areas that are still yet to be finished include what types of sporting events are eligible to be wagered on, college football for example has been approved, but not all education sports programmes are. Decisions are also needed on what types of wagers are allowed, as well as any notable exceptions and restrictions needed to be implemented.

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