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Brookline Nonprofits Invited To Apply For $30 Million In Grants

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Brookline.com
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Cummings Foundation is now accepting letters of inquiry for its annual $30 Million Grant Program. This place-based initiative will deliver substantial multi-year funding to 150 eastern Massachusetts nonprofits.

Cummings noted several changes to the grant program, now in its 13th cycle. One of the most significant modifications is a geographic expansion.

The program has historically supported organizations based in and primarily serving Suffolk, Middlesex, and Essex counties only. Updated parameters have now opened the application to nonprofits in Brookline, Dedham, Milton, Needham, Quincy, and Wellesley, all in Norfolk County.

Also new this year are resources designed to help small nonprofits navigate the grant application process. The Foundation has introduced a short-form application for organizations seeking annual installments of $25,000 or less. In addition, volunteers will provide coaching to a limited number of smaller organizations as they develop their letters of inquiry.

Many of the program modifications are the result of feedback and suggestions provided by past applicants, according to Executive Director Joyce Vyriotes, who has been heavily involved since the grant program’s genesis, in 2012.

“We believe that our funding will have a much greater impact if we involve the community—especially including nonprofits—in the process,” said Vyriotes. “We recently asked applicants to share feedback on how we could make our process more equitable, accessible, and user-friendly, and we were delighted to implement many of their recommendations, both big and small.”

Calling its model “democratized philanthropy,” Cummings Foundation also invites about 175 dedicated volunteers to make the majority of its funding decisions.

The Cummings $30 Million Grant Program will award 125 nonprofits three-year grants of up to $300,000 each. Twenty-five additional organizations, all of which are prior Cummings grantees, will be awarded 10-year funding of up to $1 million each. 

Letters of inquiry for the 2024 grant cycle will be accepted until September 8. During the most recent cycle, the Foundation received 630 proposals for the 150 awards.

The winners will be announced in May of 2024 following a comprehensive vetting process featuring multiple review stages carried out by community volunteers.

The Cummings $30 Million Grant Program eligibility requirements, timeline, and FAQs, as well as a link to begin the letter of inquiry, are all available here.

Vyriotes noted that, through this initiative and other grants, the Foundation has now awarded $500 million to greater Boston nonprofits. 

One of the largest private foundations in New England, Cummings Foundation was founded in 1986 by Bill and Joyce Cummings of Winchester. Bill also founded the Woburn-based commercial real estate firm Cummings Properties, which leases and manages 11 million square feet of debt-free space, the majority of which exclusively benefits the Foundation. Additional information is available at CummingsFoundation.org.

Mosquitoes I Brookline Test Positive Gor West Nile Virus; Community Members Reminded To Take Precautions

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Brookline.com
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Health Director Sigalle Reiss and the Brookline Department of Public Health report that the Massachusetts Department of Public Health detected West Nile Virus (WNV) in mosquito samples collected in town on Thursday, July 06, 2023.

According to the Massachusetts DPH, West Nile virus (WNV) is a mosquito-carried virus that can cause illnesses ranging from a mild fever to more serious diseases like encephalitis or meningitis. It was first identified in the United States in 1999. WNV is most commonly spread to people through the bite of an infected mosquito.

Most people bitten by infected mosquitoes experience no symptoms, while about 20% of those who become infected can experience symptoms like fever, headache, body aches, nausea, vomiting, and sometimes swollen lymph glands. They may also develop a skin rash on the chest, stomach and back. Less than one percent of people infected develop severe illness.

Most people bitten by mosquitoes carrying WNV will experience no symptoms or very mild symptoms and will recover on their own. Persons over 50 years of age have the highest risk of severe WNV disease.

Still, residents should be aware of the risks posed by mosquito-borne viruses and take precautions against WNV infection.

Mosquito-borne viruses are viruses that are carried and spread by mosquitoes. In Massachusetts, public health surveillance is done for two mosquito-borne viruses — West Nile Virus (WNV) and Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE). The period of highest risk of getting either disease can be from late July through the fall, until the first frost.

Mosquitoes get WNV and EEE by biting infected birds. People and animals can get these diseases by being bitten by an infected mosquito. There is no evidence that a person can get these viruses from handling live or dead infected birds or animals. However, gloves should be worn when handling any dead animals and double plastic bags used to discard them in the trash.

The Brookline Department of Public Health is involved in active surveillance for mosquito-borne viruses. Brookline will be doing the following to address mosquito-borne viruses this summer:

  • Larvicide has been applied to all catch basins and some wetland areas to prevent hatching of new mosquitoes.
  • Mosquito traps have been established and mosquito batches are being tested for the virus.

The Town of Brookline also recommends community members take the following precautionary measures:

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% or less on older children. Oil of lemon eucalyptus should not be used on children under 3 years old. Permethrin products are intended for use on items such as clothing, shoes, bed nets and camping gear and should not be applied to skin.
  • Avoid areas that tend to have a lot of mosquitoes, such as wetlands or swampy areas.
  • Clothing can help reduce mosquito bites. Wearing long sleeves, long pants and socks when outdoors will help keep mosquitoes away from your skin.
  • Be aware of peak mosquito hours. The hours from dusk to dawn are peak biting times for many mosquitoes. Consider rescheduling outdoor activities that occur during the evening or early morning. If you are outdoors at any time and notice mosquitoes around you, take steps to avoid being bitten by moving indoors, covering up and/or wearing repellant.

Mosquito-Proof Your Home

  • Drain standing or stagnant water in and around your home or business. Mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water. Limit the number of places around your home for mosquitoes to breed by either draining or discarding items that hold water. Check rain gutters and drains. Empty any 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.
  • repair leaking pipes and outdoor faucets;
  • keep your grass cut short and bushes near your house trimmed so mosquitoes can’t hide;
  • call the Brookline Department of Public Health if you see standing water problems that are not on your property.

Anyone with questions should contact the Brookline Department of Public Health at 617-730-2300.

Information about WNV and reports of current and historical WNV activity in Massachusetts can be found on the Massachusetts Department of Public Health website.

Natalia Linos Elected ELM Action Fund Board Chair

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Brookline.com
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The Environmental League of Massachusetts (ELM) Action Fund is proud to announce that Dr. Natalia Linos of Brookline has been elected to serve as the organization’s Board Chair. Linos has served on the ELM Action Fund board since 2021.

She brings expertise in public health and public policy to her role, advancing the ELM Action Fund’s mission to build political power that meets the scale and urgency of our environmental challenges. As Board Chair, Linos will lead the board’s guidance of the ELM Action Fund’s political and electoral work. This includes approving environmentally focused candidate endorsements made by the organization.

“We are thrilled to have Natalia leading the ELM Action Fund board,” said Casey Bowers, Executive Director of the ELM Action Fund. “Since her impressive run for Congress, we knew we wanted to work with her more directly. Her public health expertise and deep commitment to addressing climate change makes her the leader we need at this moment.”

“I am delighted to serve as Board Chair of the ELM Action Fund and help build political power necessary to tackle environmental challenges at the scale and urgency required,” said Linos. “By investing in diverse candidates and coalitions, the ELM Action Fund can simultaneously advance the health and well-being of people and planet.” 

Linos is a social epidemiologist and the Executive Director of the FXB Center for Health and Human Rights at Harvard University. In addition to serving on Brookline’s Town Meeting, in May 2023, she was elected to serve on Brookline’s School Committee. Previously, Linos worked at the United Nations and the New York City Health Department, tackling some of the most urgent issues of our time: from climate change to structural racism.

Linos succeeds attorney Alex Bok, who stepped down from his role in May 2023 to accept a new position as Senior Advisor, Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy (ARPA-E) at the U.S. Department of Energy.

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By Leigh Chandler

Brookline Department Of Public Health Launches Free Naloxone Distribution Program

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Brookline.com
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The Brookline Department of Public Health and Human Services is pleased to announce that it will be providing free Naloxone to residents.

Naloxone (Narcan) is a medication approved by the Food and Drug Administration designed to rapidly reverse opioid overdose. When given in time, Naloxone can restore breathing within 2-3 minutes in a person whose breathing has slowed or stopped due to an opioid overdose.

The Department has qualified to participate in the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (MDPH) Community Naloxone Purchasing Program (CNPP).

“Naloxone is an essential tool in our collective fight against opioid overdoses, and a tool we’re now able to provide to everyone in our community who needs or wants it,” Public Health Director Sigalle Reiss said. “I encourage anyone — and especially those who know someone who is at risk of overdose, or is at risk themselves — to take advantage of this lifesaving resource.”

Through its participation in the CNPP, Brookline may now order fully subsidized Naloxone directly from the State Office of Pharmacy Services. As an affiliate program, the Brookline DPH will be responsible for providing counseling on overdose prevention and training on overdose response to all individuals who receive CNPP-obtained Naloxone.

The Department will launch Project Citizens Accessing Naloxone (Project CAN) and will offer group training throughout the summer and fall. The Department will also welcome anonymous, walk-in requests for Naloxone any time during business hours (08:00 a.m. to 05:00 p.m., Monday-Thursday, and 08:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Friday) at the Public Health Building, 11 Pierce Street, Brookline, MA 02445.

More information can be found here.

The Department will offer Naloxone in a prefilled nasal spray form which anyone can use without medical training or authorization, though training will be available on-site prior to distribution.

If you or someone you know is at increased risk for opioid overdose or has an Opioid Use Disorder, please contact the Brookline Public Health Nurse at 617-730-2320 to access Naloxone at no charge. Naloxone is free, safe, and available to all.

Brookline Public Works Announces Rate Changes For Waste & Bulky Item Pickup

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Brookline.com
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To support program costs, the Town of Brookline announces updated fees for trash collection services, including the collection of bulky items, for residents who participate in the town’s Hybrid Pay-As-You-Throw (HPAYT) Program.

To offset increasing annual program costs for municipal trash service and to support new state Department of Environmental Protection regulations, the Town will also implement a Pay-As-You-Throw fee for bulky and metal item pickups beginning July 01, 2023. These bulky item fees will accompany an increase in overall sanitation fees.

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Special bulky items: $10 each “White goods” (large home appliances like refrigerators, stoves, etc.) and electronics: $20 each Mattresses: $55 each In addition, rates for the HPAYT program are increasing on July 01, 2023 by approximately 8 percent for all cart sizes.

Pickups of bulky and metal items must be paid for in advance of pickup, which should be scheduled online. Please visit here to access the town’s online scheduling and payment portal.

Bulky and metal items are collected on a resident’s regular waste collection day, by appointment only. Appointments must be made one week in advance of your regular trash pickup and paid for in advance. If you require assistance, please email bulky@brooklinema.gov or call the Department of Public Works at 617-730-2156.

Construction and remodeling materials, automobile parts, and gym equipment are all ineligible for bulky item pickup. These items should instead be removed by a private waste hauler. Tires, electronics and small appliances (such as microwaves) can be brought to the Town’s Household Hazardous Waste Recycling Facility at Brookline’s Transfer Station (815 Newton Street) at no cost. The facility is open every Tuesday from May 02 to October 31, 2023, from 07:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

The Brookline Department of Public Works manages the comprehensive HPAYT program to meet the town’s refuse disposal and recycling needs. The program serves nearly 13,200 customers each week and provides a suite of options for residents to manage household recycling, refuse, special waste, and yard waste in a manner that is efficient, convenient, environmentally sound, and prioritizes public health and safety. The PAYT program relies on refuse fee revenue to offset a portion of the total program cost. The target cost share is 75 percent resident fee and 25 percent Town tax subsidy.

The Solid Waste Advisory Committee (SWAC) and Town staff continue to implement operational efficiencies and look for new ways to minimize waste to control costs and reduce the Town’s collective impact on the environment. The Town has increased its efforts to promote recycling, expanded special materials management, and established a partnership with blackearthcompost.com for residents to sign up for the curbside compost pick-up program. For more information about program services, please visit here or download the new We Recycle Brookline app.

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Town Of Brookline Invites Community Members To Participate In Harvard Street MBTA Zoning Workshops

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Brookline.com
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Town Administrator Chas Carey invites residents to participate in the next round of Harvard Street zoning workshops to help shape the Town’s proposal.

In 2022, the State passed the MBTA Communities Act, which requires 175 municipalities — including Brookline — to have at least one zoning district that allows multifamily zoning without discretionary permits.

The Town is proposing a zoning update for Harvard Street that would meet the Town’s Goals including reinforcing its 3.5- to 4-story main street character, and facilitating modestly placed housing and commercial growth with objective design standards for more predictable outcomes.

The design standards are informed by four phases of community workshops facilitated by zoning expert Opticos Design and the state Department of Planning and Community Development (DPCD).

More than 200 community stakeholders participated in Phase 1 workshops. Participants suggested a focus on better accessibility, quality building materials, human-scale building heights, preservation of historic structures, protection of public shade trees, and richly varied uses on the ground floor.

Phase 2, which focuses on “Test Fits of Community Inputs for Zoning,” will test zoning parameters informed by the community in highly interactive workshops held via Zoom:

Workshop A, Stearns Road to Verndale Street: This workshop will be held on Wednesday, June 28, 2023 at 12:00 p.m. via Zoom. Residents may register here.

Workshop B, Station Street to Stearns Road: This workshop will be held on Thursday, June 29, 2023, at 12:00 p.m. via Zoom. Residents may register here.

Phase 3 and Phase 4 are scheduled for mid-July.

More information on the Town’s zoning plans and goals can be found here and on the Town’s Zoning Hub. Residents also may subscribe to receive alerts for updates on the Zoning proposal here.

“We highly encourage residents to attend these workshops to guide the Town’s efforts,” said Town Administrator Carey. “Community feedback is vital to the success of planning and we want to ensure that community members’ voices are heard on important issues such as this.”

Those with questions regarding the Town’s Zoning proposal or the workshops should contact Planning Director Kara Brewton at kbrewton@brooklinema.gov or Senior Planner Maria Morelli at mmorelli@brooklinema.gov.

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Brookline Golf Course To Host The Sunset Concert

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Brookline.com
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The Brookline Recreation Department and the Brookline Golf Course would like to share information about this summer’s Sunset Concert.

The Town’s traditional Summer Concert Series features a variety of bands that celebrate the joy and fun of music. This year, the Town will hold The Sunset Concert, a multi-performer, family-friendly music experience, on Wednesday, August 02, 2033, from 03:00 p.m. to 09:00 p.m. at the Brookline Golf Course’s driving range, 1281 West Roxbury Parkway, Chestnut Hill, MA 02467.

Performers include Vanessa Trien and The Jumping Monkeys, Petty Larceny – a Tom Petty cover band – and the Zac Brown Tribute Band, which will headline the show. The event will also feature food trucks, a Kidz Zone play area, and a beer garden.

The Hemlock Grill in the Clubhouse will also be open with a full menu of casual dining options.

Tickets can be purchased in advance for $20 for Brookline residents, $35 for non-residents, and $15 for youth ages 5-17. Admission is free for children under age five. Tickets are available for purchase here.

A limited number of parking spaces will be available on the golf course for $50 each, so attendees are encouraged to carpool, use ride-sharing apps, or arrange to be dropped off. “No parking” signs will be posted on the surrounding roads to ensure residents maintain access to their homes. Vehicles that violate the signage will be towed.

Additional signage will be in place to notify commuters on West Roxbury Parkway of the pending event and to avoid the area. On the day of, traffic will be reduced to a single lane on West Roxbury Parkway under the guidance of the Brookline Police Department and the Massachusetts State Police to allow for a rideshare drop-off lane in front of the Clubhouse.

More information on The Sunset Concert can be found here.

Town Of Brookline Invites Local Businesses & Restaurants To Register For Booths & Sponsorships For Brookline Day

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Brookline.com
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Recreation Director Leigh Jackson and the Town of Brookline would like to invite Brookline-based businesses and restaurants to register for booths, tables, and sponsorships for this year’s Brookline Day.

More information about the various sponsorship levels available can be found here. Those interested in registering as a vendor must fill out the registration form here.

Brookline Day is set to take place on Sunday, September 10, 2023, from 11:00 a.m. to 03:00 p.m. The celebration will return to Coolidge Corner this year, after the success of last year’s pilot program.

Brookline Day celebrates community as a great place to live, work, and play, while fostering a connection among residents, neighbors, and businesses. The event will feature Mini Town Hall, games, food, live music, prizes, and other special activities. Children can also enjoy the Kidz Zone, which features inflatable bounce houses, face painting, and a Touch-a-Truck event.

More information on Brookline Day can be found here. Updates will be posted to the webpage as the event gets closer.

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Town Of Brookline Invites Residents To Informational Webinar On How Local Bylaws Impact Civil Rights

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Brookline.com
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Town Administrator Chas Carey wishes to invite members of the community to an informational webinar to learn more about the Fair Housing Act and its impacts on how Town Meeting’s decisions may impact residents’ civil rights.

When Town Meetings adopt zoning and bylaw changes, these amendments can have a consequential impact on residents’ civil rights derived from federal and state laws, such as the Fair Housing Act and the Americans With Disabilities Act, among others.

Each new zoning or town bylaw is reviewed by the Attorney General’s Office to determine whether the proposed amendments are consistent with the U.S. Constitution and the laws of the Commonwealth.

The Municipal Law Unit conducts these reviews but does not take policy considerations into account. Meanwhile, the Civil Rights Division enforces federal and state civil rights laws.

This webinar will shed light on the symbiotic relationship between municipal bylaws and civil rights endowed to all residents at the state and federal levels.

The webinar will be presented by members of the Civil Rights Division of the state Attorney General’s Office and hosted by the Office of Town Counsel.

It will take place on Wednesday, June 21, 2023, at 07:00 p.m. via Zoom.

Registration is required. Those interested may sign up here. Upon registration, a confirmation e-mail with information about joining the meeting will be sent.

Town Of Brookline Launches Community Health Assessment & Improvement Planning Process

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Brookline.com
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Commissioner of Public Health Sigalle Reiss announces that the Brookline Department of Public Health & Human Services has recently launched a Community Health Assessment (CHA) and Community Health Improvement Planning (CHIP) process.

The CHA-CHIP process will center health equity and community engagement in evaluating the health status of Brookline residents, as well as identifying community needs and barriers to improvement.

This comprehensive assessment goes beyond examining the prevalence and trends of health conditions, such as cancer, heart disease, mental health disorders, substance use, infectious diseases, and environmental health. It also explores the social and structural determinants of health that influence these trends.

The findings from the assessment will serve as a foundation for the planning process, enabling Brookline DHHS to identify gaps, address health disparities and establish the need for new — or more broadly promote existing — programs.

Brookline DHHS has contracted with Health Resources in Action, Inc. (HRiA), to conduct the assessment and develop the health improvement plan. HRiA is a Boston-based national non-profit public health organization with extensive experience conducting equity-focused and community-engaged CHA-CHIP processes.

In collaboration with HRiA, the Department is actively establishing a Steering Committee comprised of Brookline residents and stakeholders to provide valuable guidance and advice throughout the project.

Through a combination of interviews, focus groups, surveys, and state and local data sources, the research team will collaborate with community members to identify current and emerging health needs throughout Brookline. The CHA aims to understand the social, economic, and health-related issues that diverse Brookline residents face, how those issues are currently being addressed, and where there are gaps and opportunities to address these issues in the future. The planning team will then use these results to further engage community members in creating a 5-year plan for the improvement of identified health priority areas.

Residents can stay up to date on the CHA/CHIP on the Department’s website here.

The final CHA is expected to be released in spring of 2024, with the CHIP following in late 2024. These reports will provide the Health Department and other key stakeholders with strategic initiatives to foster equitable health outcomes in Brookline.

Town Of Brookline Invites Community Members To Attend Juneteenth Celebration

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Brookline.com
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WThe Town of Brookline is pleased to invite residents to a Freedom March from the Florida Ruffin Ridley School to the Brookline Avenue Playground, for a celebration of Juneteenth — a federal holiday commemorating the emancipation of enslaved African-Americans on June 19, 1865.

The event will take place on Monday, June 19, 2023. Freedom March begins at 10:00 a.m. The celebration begins at 11:00 a.m.

The event will begin at the Florida Ruffin Ridley School, 345 Harvard Street, Brookline, MA 02446, and proceed to the Brookline Avenue Playground, 575 Brookline Avenue, Brookline, MA 02445, where a celebration will be held.

The celebration will feature free food, entertainment, games, crafts, raffles, and music.

Brookline Public Health & Recreation Departments To Hold Annual Yoga Class

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Brookline.com
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Health Commissioner Sigalle Reiss and Recreation Director Leigh Jackson would like to invite community members to attend the annual community yoga class to celebrate International Yoga Day.

Experienced instructors from local yoga studios, including Coolidge Yoga Brookline and Healthworks, will teach the class. Community members of all levels of yoga experience, including those new to this type of exercise, are welcome to attend.

The event will take place on Wednesday, June 21, 2023 between the hours of 07:00 p.m. and 08:30 p.m. In the event of rain, the class will be canceled.

The location is Emerson Park, 75 Davis Avenue, Brookline, MA 02445.

Participants are encouraged to wear comfortable clothes and shoes, bring a towel or yoga mat, and water. Those with questions regarding the event should contact Lynne Karsten at lkarsten@brooklinema.gov.

Town Of Brookline Invites Community Members To Review Hazard Mitigation Plan Update

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Town Administrator Chas Carey and Fire Chief / Emergency Management Director John F. Sullivan invite community members to review the 2023 Hazard Mitigation Plan Update.

Brookline’s Hazard Mitigation Planning Committee has developed a Hazard Mitigation Plan that identifies and prioritizes actions the Town can take to mitigate the impacts of natural hazards and climate change.

The Town asks that residents review the plan update and provide recommendations, thoughts, and comments to help the Town finalize the plan. The plan can be found here. To view a hard copy, please visit the Office of Emergency Management, 350 Washington Street, Brookline, MA 02445.

Residents can provide comments on the plan by filling out this digital form or by sending an email to oem@brooklinema.gov. The comment period will be open from June 01 to June 15, 2023.

When implemented, the Hazard Mitigation Plan will support the town’s resiliency against natural hazards such as flooding, snowstorms, high winds, and extreme temperatures. Town officials and local stakeholders developed this plan with support from the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA). Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) approval and Town adoption of the Hazard Mitigation Plan Update allows the Town to apply for pre- and post-disaster hazard mitigation grant funds.

Those with questions regarding this project should contact Cheryl Anne Snyder, Emergency Management Coordinator at 617-730-2656, or by e-mail at oem@brooklinema.gov.

The Hazard Mitigation Plan is available in various formats and languages upon request. For access to these documents, or for assistance with the feedback form, please contact Diversity, Inclusion, and Community Relations Specialist Sarah Kaplan at 617-730-2329, or be e-mail at skaplan@brooklinema.gov.

Amy Schade Named Champion For Camp For Childhood Cancer Survivors

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Brookline.com
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Camp Casco, a nonprofit organization offering free camps and socials for childhood cancer patients, survivors, and siblings in New England, is proud to announce that Amy Schade of Brookline, MA has been named a 2023 Camp Champion.

Camp Casco’s Camp Champions program, presented by New England Applied Products, supports childhood cancer patients and survivors while taking on New Hampshire’s epic Presidential Traverse: a 23-mile hike reaching 7 of the state’s 4000+ foot summits. The Champions will conquer this challenging hike together over just two days, braving some of the harshest weather in the world. Each Champion will raise $1,600, the equivalent of sending one child to camp for an entire week. While at camp, children aêected by childhood cancer get the opportunity to experience independence, take on new challenges, and make friends with other kids who have been through similar challenges, all while supported by a round-the-clock medical team and a 1:1 counselor-to-camper ratio. After oêering virtual programs throughout the pandemic, Camp Casco looks forward to welcoming kids back to camp in person this summer after completing a successful 2022 camp season with no CoViD-19 cases. Camp Casco selected an elite group of 12 impressive athletes from six states for the group’s third annual challenge, each hiking in honor of an individual camper for summer 2023.

This annual event returns for the fourth time on June 2-4, 2023, after a socially-distanced inaugural hike in 2020 and two successful in-person hikes in 2021 and 2022. Camp Casco CEO Erin Fletcher Stern explains, “Our 2023 Camp Champions have been training for months to prepare for this incredibly challenging hike. This trek is filled with ups and downs and is extremely physically and emotionally demanding, much like the experience of childhood cancer. Through this hike, our Champions come together to challenge themselves and support each other, mirroring the magic of our summer camps and helping to give this transformative experience to more deserving kids fighting cancer this summer.”

Schade is looking forward to taking on this immense challenge for the second time as a Camp Champion and team captain. “I am so excited to return this year as a 2023 Camp Casco Camp Champion because I believe their mission of providing a place for kids aêected by childhood cancer where they can have fun, make friends, and experience adventure can help them thrive. I am honored that my friends and families have rallied together to send a child to camp this summer and I hope they have an unforgettable experience!,” said Schade.

Donations can be made here, and an anonymous donor will match donations through June 04, 2023.

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About Camp Casco

Camp Casco is a nonprofit organization that oêers amazing camp experiences that build lifelong connections for childhood cancer patients, survivors, and their families. Campers get the opportunity to have fun, challenge themselves, try new things, meet friends who understand their struggles, and, above all, become part of a community where they truly belong. All programs are provided at no cost to families, including meals, transportation, and round-the-clock medical care. The organization hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including annual week-long summer camps, fun family socials, and yearly fundraisers to support its eêorts.

To learn more, please visit here.

A New Era Of Sports Betting: Opportunities & Challenges In Massachusetts

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Brookline.com
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After several years of uncertainty, Massachusetts has entered a new era of sports betting. Gov. Charlie Baker signed a bill to legalize sports betting, making Massachusetts the 36th state in the U.S. to do so. This move opens up exciting opportunities for bettors and businesses in the state. However, along with the opportunities, some challenges need to be addressed.

Economic Boost

The legalization of sports betting in Massachusetts is expected to bring significant economic benefits to the state. Experts predict it will increase tax revenue, job creation and boost tourism and local businesses.

One of the most significant benefits Massachusetts expects from the legalization of sports betting is increased tax revenue. Estimates suggest that the state’s sports betting industry could generate millions of dollars in tax revenue annually. This additional revenue has the potential to significantly boost the state’s economy and provide funding for various public services crucial to its residents’ well-being.

In addition to the tax revenue boost, the legalization of sports betting can contribute to job creation. Establishing and operating sports betting facilities in person and online require a workforce to handle various roles such as customer service, odds management, and marketing. This presents employment opportunities for individuals in the state, leading to economic growth and reduced unemployment rates.

Furthermore, the introduction of sports betting can have a positive impact on tourism and local businesses. With neighboring states legalizing sports betting, Massachusetts can attract visitors who wish to engage in legal sports betting activities. This influx of tourists can benefit local hotels, restaurants, and other businesses, stimulating economic activity and supporting the growth of the hospitality and entertainment sectors.

Expanded Betting Options

With the legalization of sports betting, Most professional and collegiate sports are fair game for betting, including popular sports like football, basketball, and baseball, as well as niche sports like European beach soccer and pesäpallo. Special events such as the Academy Awards and the Fourth of July hot dog-eating contest can also be advertised. This expanded range of options provides bettors more choices and enhances their overall betting experience.

The availability of diverse betting options caters to the interests of a wide range of bettors and boosts the state’s economy. It allows new businesses to thrive, such as online sportsbooks and betting platforms. These businesses can create jobs and generate tax revenue for the state. Moreover, the increased variety of betting options attracts tourists and out-of-state bettors, potentially increasing tourism and economic activity in Massachusetts. Massachusetts residents now have a wide range of betting options, and fans can use the BetMGM Massachusetts Bonus Code further improve their experience.

Increased Tax Revenue

Tax revenue from sports betting in Massachusetts has exceeded expectations, significantly boosting the state’s finances. With MGM Springfield being one of the entities facilitating sports bets in person and online, the impact on tax revenue has been notable.

The positive outcomes can be attributed to the introduction of in-person sports betting in Massachusetts on January 31 and mobile sports betting on March 10. In March alone, there were more than $568 million in settled wagers. This led to $47 million in taxable gaming revenue, resulting in a total tax revenue collection of $9.3 million for the month.

State Senator John Velis acknowledged the impressive tax revenue generated and emphasized that it would be allocated to various crucial areas in the state. The extra funds will support infrastructure projects such as roads and bolstering general funds, workforce development, and education. Senator Velis highlighted the importance of not immediately spending all the additional revenue but taking a cautious approach given the uncertain economic climate.

Senator Velis specifically mentioned affordable housing as a pressing need in the bay state. The revenue generated from sports betting can potentially contribute to addressing this issue by investing in more affordable housing units.

Ultimately, legislators will determine the specific allocation of the tax revenue. However, the introduction of sports betting in Massachusetts has proven to be a lucrative source of additional funds, offering opportunities for economic growth and addressing critical needs within the state.

Challenges and the Path Forward

The legalization of online sports betting in Massachusetts has brought forth both opportunities and challenges. Gaming lobbyists argue it will eliminate illegal betting sites and allow for targeted interventions for problem gamblers. However, public health experts and researchers express concerns about the ease and speed with which sports betting companies can now target vulnerable groups, particularly young adults, who may be more susceptible to developing gambling problems. The accessibility and addictive nature of online sports betting raise concerns about the potential for increased addiction rates and the need for additional support and treatment services.

One of the primary concerns is the impact on young people. The ability to bet quickly and easily through online apps raises worries about the potential for compulsive gambling among this demographic. Research has shown that young minds may be more easily manipulated and may not fully grasp the risks and consequences associated with gambling. 

Another challenge lies in the responsible gambling measures implemented by sports betting operators. While operators are required to offer tools for setting limits on time and money spent, there are inconsistencies in the availability and visibility of responsible gambling resources on their websites. Some operators make it difficult for users to find help for problem gambling, which raises concerns about the adequacy of support and interventions for individuals showing signs of addiction. Calls have been made for operators to prioritize responsible gambling measures and for Massachusetts to follow models like New Jersey’s, which require operators to track customers’ behavior and offer resources and referrals for gambling treatment.

Legalizing sports betting in Massachusetts presents exciting opportunities for bettors, businesses, and the economy. With expanded betting options, economic growth, and increased tax revenue, the state has the potential to thrive in this emerging industry. However, to fully harness these opportunities, Massachusetts must address the challenges associated with responsible gambling, regulatory frameworks, and taxation.

Andrew Amendola Sworn In As Carlise’s Police Chief

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The Town of Carlisle formally welcomed its new police chief last week with the swearing-in of Chief Andrew Amendola.

Chief Amendola comes to Carlisle following a lengthy career with the Brookline Police Department, where he most recently served as a lieutenant. He was sworn in at a ceremony at Town Hall on Monday, May 15, 2023.

“As the Chief of the Carlisle Police Department, I offer the Carlisle community and its residents this phrase: Duty, Honor, Community. In these three hallowed words, I promise to reinforce police partnerships, recreate hope in policing, and build upon the strong foundations that the Carlisle Police Department has already established,” Chief Amendola said. “Through transparency, commitment, and integrity we will grow in the future together as one. I look forward to creating police and community collaboration that will reflect the community through legitimacy, trust, and safety.”

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Chief Amendola was hired by the Brookline Police Department in November 2006 as a patrol officer. He was promoted to the rank of sergeant in April 2015 where he supervised patrol, became a Special Response Team Leader, worked with the Community Emergency Response Team, and was appointed as a Community Service/Emergency Management Coordinator.

In October 2019, Amendola was promoted to the rank of lieutenant where he served as a CoViD-19 Task Force member, K-9 Supervisor, and Patrol Lieutenant. In 2020, he was reassigned and appointed as Accreditation Manager, Training Unit Lieutenant, and Deputy Incident Commander in charge of all Special Operations for the 2022 U.S. Open.

Now, as chief of the Carlisle Police Department, Chief Amendola will work to continue to strengthen the trust between the department and the residents it serves by building and maintaining accountability and transparency throughout the department and ensuring Carlisle’s officers are ambassadors for peace, justice, and tolerance in the community.

“I promise to do my job as Chief, develop your trust through leadership, and hold myself accountable to the Carlisle Police standard,” said Chief Amendola, addressing the officers now under his command. “I promise I will always stand next to you in unity, support you when the going gets tough, and utilize your ideas to move our department forward together. In unity, there is always strength, and in strength, we can accomplish great things for the department and the community of Carlisle.”

The process that led to Chief Amendola’s appointment was inclusive and engaged the community, Select Board Chair Barney Arnold said. She noted Chief Amendola’s experience living in a small town himself, and praised the energy he will bring to the department and the community.

Town Administrator Ryan McLane said Chief Amendola was the right choice for Carlisle, and will run the department in a way that aligns with Carlisle’s values and expectations.

Chief Amendola holds a Master’s Degree from the University of Massachusetts Lowell and is a veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces and was awarded the Purple Heart during his service in Afghanistan.

Laura O’Brien, CPA, MST, Named Chair Of Massachusetts Society Of CPAs’ Board Of Directors

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The Massachusetts Society of Certified Public Accountants (MassCPAs) today announced that Laura O’Brien, CPA, MST, was elected to serve its Board of Directors as chair for its 2023-2024 fiscal year, which began May 01, 2023.

O’Brien, a Brookline resident, is a partner at LGA, LLP in Woburn with over 25 years of public accounting experience servicing the accounting and tax needs of individuals and privately held businesses. LGA, LLP is a CPA and business advisory firm that focuses on developing deep relationships with clients to provide strategic insight, straightforward advice and value-added services, including business consulting and valuations, outsourced accounting services, tax planning and assurance.

MassCPAs Board of Directors is a group of 19 elected members that sets policies, manages programs and oversees activities that benefit the 11,500-member organization and accounting profession in Massachusetts.

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“MassCPAs Board of Directors is an exceptional and diverse group of individuals that will have a profound impact on defining the Society’s priorities and propelling the accounting profession forward in Massachusetts,” said Amy Pitter, MassCPAs president and CEO. “I am thrilled to have Laura on the board and know that her valuable contributions and leadership will benefit the Society, our community and the profession in the coming year.”

With a strong focus on clients’ wealth management, O’Brien has assumed a significant role in providing expert guidance to businesses spanning a wide range of industries, including service, medicine, education, investment and real estate. Demonstrating her commitment to nurturing the next generation of leaders within the firm, she actively engages in mentoring younger staff members while advocating on their behalf to firm management. O’Brien’s dedication extends to the development and leadership of professional training programs for the staff, notably her involvement in piloting the Learning Paths Program and co-chairing the training committee. Committed to fostering inclusivity and diversity, she actively participates in several MassCPAs committees, including the Women in Accounting Committee, Taxation Committee and the Diversity and Inclusion Advisory Committee. Recognizing her exceptional contributions, she was honored as a MassCPAs 2019 Woman to Watch in the Experienced Leaders category.

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About the Massachusetts Society of CPAs

The Massachusetts Society of Certified Public Accountants, Inc. is the state professional association of certified public accountants, representing over 11,500 members in public accounting practice, industry and business, government and education. The Society works to develop and maintain high professional standards and offers a wide array of legislative, technical and referral services to its members.

To learn more, please visit here.

Town Of Brookline To Hold Community Preservation Plan Engagement Opportunities

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Town Administrator Chas Carey is pleased to announce that the Town of Brookline will hold engagement opportunities for residents to get involved in the drafting of its Community Preservation Plan (CPP).

After voting to adopt the Community Preservation Act (CPA) in 2021, Brookline is currently developing its first Community Preservation Plan (CPP). The Community Preservation Committee (CPC), per the state statute, is tasked with studying the needs, possibilities, and resources of the Town regarding community preservation. The CPC is working with consultants at JM Goldson on the first CPP draft.

The plan will include overall policies and goals, as well as identify needs, goals, and eligible activities for each of the four project categories: Community Housing, Historic Preservation, Open Space, and Outdoor Recreation. The CPC will use this plan as a framework and guide for prioritizing funding applications.

As a part of the CPP drafting process, the Town will be offering opportunities for Brookline community members to get involved and help create the plan.

A Community Charrette will be held on Wednesday, June 05, 2023 from 06:30 p.m. – 08:00 p.m. at Brookline High School, 22 Tappan Street, Brooklin, MA 02445. This open house event will offer light refreshments and activities for all ages. The Town’s project consultants will discuss some of their initial findings and provide collaborative activities for participants to workshop their ideas.

Residents are encouraged to take a short survey, which can be found here, and share their ideas on how the CPC should prioritize spending its funds.

Those looking for more information should contact Community Preservation Planner Tina McCarthy at 617-730-2612, or by e-mail at tmccarthy@brooklinema.gov.

Public Library Of Brookline Recognizes High School Student With Creative Writing Award

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Library Director Amanda Hirst is pleased to share that Brookline High School student Pascal Srinivasan has been awarded the Edith Pearlman Creative Writing Award.

Srinivasan, who just completed his first year in the Alternative Choices for Education (ACE) program at BHS, was awarded the Pearlman Prize for his exemplary creative writing ability at the school’s annual awards ceremony on Tuesday, May 02, 2023

Srinivasan is described as a close and supportive reader of his classmates’ work and is willing to share his dilemmas and suggestions about writing.

BHS faculty member Brendan O’Connell spoke of Srinivasan’s collaborative orientation toward the writing process which allowed him to write, “a compelling short story, a fun personal narrative, and multiple snappy poems that engage readers with rhyme and symbolism.”

The Pearlman Prize was established in 2016 in honor of Edith Pearlman, an acclaimed fiction and travel writer and a beloved longtime resident of Brookline. Pearlman, who passed away last New Year’s Eve, was once described as “our greatest living short story writer” by the Boston Globe, demonstrating the impact her work had on the residents of Brookline and beyond.

The award is presented annually to a student who has demonstrated exceptional ability and achievement in the area of creative writing.

“Pascal is a brilliant young writer,” said Hirst. “To be awarded the Pearlman Prize is a testament to Pascal’s hard work and dedication and this honor is well-deserved.”

Town Of Brookline To Partner With Northeastern University’s iSUPER In Air Quality Study

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Commissioner of Public Works Erin Chute Gallentine is pleased to announce that the Town of Brookline has partnered with Northeastern University’s Intelligent Solutions to Urban Pollution for Equity and Resilience (iSUPER) to take part in an air quality testing study to deploy cost-effective, climate-smart technology aimed at trying to understand and model air pollution.

The multi-year project will provide opportunities to learn from and leverage data, particularly related to transportation and transit systems, open space, and a diverse range of neighborhood densities and types. The Town also sees potential for the installation of sensor networks as a tool to better understand existing conditions and to identify and evaluate possible opportunities to mitigate air pollution in the future.

iSUPER, one of Northeastern University’s newest Impact Engines, will install a suite of air quality sensors in Brookline this summer that are focused on understanding air quality conditions and changes over time in several types of areas, including parks, heavily trafficked transportation routes, and key pedestrian-used roads.

The sensors will remain in Brookline for several years to track changes over time and will help Northeastern create models to best track air quality with the smallest number of sensors possible, which will help work toward providing affordable recommendations for towns nationwide.

In addition, a lab-in-a-van will be used to make research-grade measurements around streets and neighborhoods to complement stationary sensors to map the air pollution and greenhouse gas distribution in Brookline.

iSUPER and its diverse team of researchers and partners build digital, cost-effective, climate-smart infrastructure to create real-time hyperlocal air pollution measurement data and model predictions for cities and towns. These data and tools position towns and cities to take actionable metric-driven steps to reduce air pollution, improve health, and continuously work toward greater equity.

To learn more about Northeastern University’s iSUPER and its work pairing low-cost, adaptable sensing technologies with pollution prediction models, please visit here. The Town and Northeastern are partnering with the Brookline GreenSpace Alliance to share information with the public as the project moves forward.

Residents are also encouraged to meet the team of iSUPER researchers at Spring Fest on Saturday May 20, 2023, from 11:00 – 02:00 p.m., at Allerton Overlook in Olmsted Park, 203 Pond Avenue, Brookline, MA 02445.

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Brookline Department Of Public Health Shares CoViD-19 Update

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Health Commissioner Sigalle Reiss and the Brookline Department of Public Health and Human Services share that, in alignment with the end of the federal public health emergency, the Healey-Driscoll Administration has announced that the Massachusetts CoViD-19 public health emergency was lifted on May 11, 2023.

While the public health emergency has concluded, Brookline health officials are continuing to monitor the impact of the virus in the community and take steps to support prevention and treatment.

VaxinateRX, in combination with the Brookline Department of Public Health and Human Services and the Brookline Senior Center, will host two CoViD-19 vaccine clinics for residents ages 65+ to receive their additional bivalent mRNA vaccine dose. The clinics will be hosted on Thursday, May 25, 2023, at Town Hall, 333 Washington Street, Brookline, MA 02445, from 04:00 – 06:00 p.m., and on Monday, June 05, 2023, at the Brookline Senior Center Ballroom, 93 Winchester Street, Brookline, MA 02446, from 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Please bring your CoViD-19 and medical insurance cards to your appointment. Registration is required. To register for the clinic at Town Hall, click here. To register for the clinic at the Senior Center, click here.

The Department continues to maintain a small supply of home antigen CoViD-19 test kits with an extended expiration date of September 28, 2023, and will continue to work with the Brookline Public Libraries and other community partners to distribute these kits throughout the summer.

On March 10, 2020, former Governor Charlie Baker declared a state of emergency which gave the Administration more flexibility to respond to the outbreak. The emergency status, which was updated on May 28, 2021, allowed the Massachusetts Department of Public Health Commissioner to take actions that promoted CoViD-19 testing and vaccination sites, maintained surveillance, and worked to protect vulnerable populations at higher risk of severe disease.

“It is amazing to look back over these three years and understand the knowledge gained and resources acquired to combat this virus. We have a highly effective vaccine, improved knowledge of the virus and a better understanding of who is at higher risk and how we can protect those at risk,” said Commissioner Reiss. “I want to thank the staff at the Brookline Department of Public Health and Human Services for their continued dedication and hard work to protect our community.”

Throughout the pandemic, the Brookline Department of Public Health and Human Services took many actions to ensure the health and safety of the community. Between February 2021 and April 2023, the Department organized more than 60 CoViD-19 vaccine clinics for the community.

The Health Department worked with numerous community partners in an effort to reach all corners of Brookline and provide equitable access to vaccines. To improve access to vaccines, clinics were held in a variety of locations throughout Brookline, including many public schools, Brookline Housing Authority facilities, the Senior Center, the Public Safety Building, Town Hall, and the Public Health Building. Additionally, the Health Department administered 102 doses of the CoViD-19 vaccine to homebound residents through the support of MRC volunteers.

Other actions taken included:

  • Consulting with the Advisory Council on Public Health and Expert Advisory Panel 4 to implement mask mandates.
  • Prioritizing contact tracing and CoViD-19 case investigation by providing isolation and quarantine guidance to confirmed and probable CoViD-19 cases in Brookline.
  • Scheduling PCR testing sites in collaboration with Coastal Emergency Medical Services.
  • Creating a CoViD-19 data dashboard to provide weekly updates regarding case counts, deaths, vaccination rates, and testing.
  • Opening and staffing an Emergency Call Center in coordination with the Office of Emergency Management.
  • Facilitating distribution of over 65,000 home antigen CoViD-19 test kits to community partners and individuals including PSB, the Brookline Senior Center, the Brookline Housing Authority, Brookline Public Libraries, Brookline Police, Fire, and Town Hall employees, Brookline businesses and childcare centers.

While the state of emergency is ending, it remains crucial to protect yourself and those most vulnerable to severe disease from CoViD-19. The best way to do this is by remaining up to date on vaccines.

Vaccination recommendations were recently simplified as of April 18, 2023. The older monovalent vaccines are no longer authorized for use in the United States and those at higher risk may need additional doses. Please consult your medical provider to determine if additional doses of the bivalent vaccine are needed. People ages six years and older who are unvaccinated or previously received only monovalent vaccine doses are recommended to receive one bivalent mRNA vaccine dose, and people ages 65 years and older may receive one additional bivalent mRNA vaccine dose (second booster).

Brookline Department Of Public Works Invites Community To Attend Open House

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Commissioner Erin Chute Gallentine announces that the Brookline Department of Public Works is marking National Public Works Week by hosting an open house next week.

The open house will take place on Thursday, May 25, 2023, from 12:30 p.m. – 05:00 p.m. at the Municipal Service Center, 870 Hammond Street, Chestnut Hill, MA 02467. On-site parking will be available, and the event will be held rain or shine.

National Public Works Week is an opportunity to recognize the dedicated and talented public works employees who design, build, operate, and maintain the transportation systems, water supply, sanitary sewer, fleet, refuse disposal systems, parks and open space, urban forest, and other critical infrastructure while preserving and protecting our environment.

The family-friendly event will have a variety of exhibits and shows, including a recycling-themed magic show and a stormwater model.

Attendees will have the opportunity to explore the sign and street light shop and the welding shop. DPW staff will demonstrate the wide range of responsibilities they fulfill throughout the community, including tree trimming, water pipe inspection and catch basin cleaning.

“Brookline DPW provides the foundation for a sustainable, inclusive, connected, vibrant, safe and livable community,” Commissioner Gallentine said. “The men and women of this Department proudly provide the core services that help the Town run every day and we are all excited to share this work with Brookline residents of all ages.”

For more information about the open house, contact Julie Piacentini at jpiacentini@brooklinema.gov or 617-730-2166.

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Brookline Advisory Council On Public Health Member To Be Honored For Life’s Work

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Health Commissioner Sigalle Reiss and the Brookline Department of Public Health & Human Services are pleased to share that a member of Brookline’s Advisory Council on Public Health will be honored statewide next month.

Adrienne (Andy) Epstein, RN, MPH, will receive the Lemuel Shattuck Award from the Massachusetts Public Health Association during a June 02, 2023 ceremony. The award is presented to a person who has made a significant contribution to the field of public health.

Epstein has been a registered nurse and a public health advocate for 45 years, evolving over that time from patient-based to community-based care.

“We’re pleased to see Andy honored for her tireless work to support the community’s health and wellbeing,” said Commissioner Reiss. “She has spent her life on the front lines of the fights against some of the gravest threats to public health over the last 40 years, including HIV/AIDS and opioid dependence, and has had a positive impact on the lives of countless people in Massachusetts and beyond.”

Epstein has played significant roles in the expansion of AIDS patient care in Massachusetts, the state’s ground-breaking needle exchange program, and later the commonwealth’s rollout of medical marijuana.

She worked for many years as a nurse at Boston City Hospital, the Cambridge VNA and the Cambridge Health Alliance. She began her career as a clinician in Mozambique, providing care to patients and mentorship to developing providers, as well as organizing vaccination and occupational health programming and preventive care.

Later in her career, Epstein expanded her focus through her work with the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, working to support access to treatment and prevention efforts related to AIDS. She built on that work in the early 2000s in multiple African countries, where she consulted on HIV and AIDS prevention and treatment programming. Also in Africa, she worked to support community access to health resources in the areas within and around Gorongosa National Park in Mozambique.

“Andy mentored scores of public health professionals, who… saw in her commitment to nursing, public health, economic equity, and racial justice a paragon of leadership and creative responsiveness,” wrote Kevin Cranston, assistant commissioner of the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, in nominating Epstein for the award.

Epstein’s work has also included time spent advising the Boston Public Health Commission on responses to West Nile Virus and the opioid epidemic, in addition to supporting the Massachusetts Department of Public Health’s work to combat opioid addiction while overseeing its HIV/AIDS, Infectious Disease and Substance Abuse Bureaus.

Epstein “understood the importance of healthy communities and the activism needed to create them long before policy, systems and environment became commonplace public health strategies,” wrote Stewart Landers, director of the Massachusetts Public Health Association, in also nominating Epstein.

Epstein’s work with the Massachusetts Department of Public Health included helping to expand access to the overdose reversal drug naloxone

“I am honored to receive this award,” Epstein said. “My life’s work has been doing what I can to reduce health inequities in our communities. Communities with healthy residents are healthy communities.”

The award is named in honor of Lemuel Shattuck, an early advocate for public health in Massachusetts whose work was the foundation for the state’s initial efforts in that realm. It is presented annually to someone who has made significant contributions to the field of public health.

Brookline Department Of Public Works Invites Community Members To Attend Spring Fest

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Commissioner Erin Chute Gallentine and Division of Parks and Open Space Director Alexandra Vecchio would like to invite community members to attend the Brookline Department of Public Works’ Spring Fest: Fight for Nature, Act for All.

Spring Fest, an event that celebrates the Town’s conservation efforts and offers an opportunity for individuals and families to learn ways they can actively protect and promote nature and our environment, will take place at Allerton Overlook in Olmsted Park, 203 Pond Avenue, Brookline, MA 02445 on Saturday, May 20, 2023, from 11:00 a.m. – 02:00 p.m.

The family-friendly event will feature a tree identification walk at 11:30 a.m., nature trivia for all ages at 12:00 p.m., and a community spring planting at 01:00 p.m. There will also be live music, environmental educational activities, exploration stations from different town departments and community organizations, food, games, arts and crafts, and much more. The event is free and open to the public.

“A park-based, environmentally focused community engagement event is a perfect way to kick off National Public Works week,” said Commissioner Gallentine. “I would like to thank our generous co-sponsors for their support, the Brookline Green Space Alliance, Mothers Out Front, and Brookline Rotary, all of which are our proud partners in promoting the importance of local, grassroots conservation efforts and the value of public open space.”

The closest public transit stations are Brookline Village T Station, Riverway T station, or High Street at Cumberland Avenue on bus route 60. The DPW is striving to make the event as close to zero-waste as possible. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own reusable water bottle.

The Senior Center will be partnering with the DPW to offer rides to the event for the first 20 sign-ups. The van will depart from the Senior Center at 10:45 a.m. and will depart from Spring Fest at 01:30 p.m. to return to the Senior Center. Seniors can sign up for a ride by calling the Senior Center at 617-730-2770.

“We are thrilled to host Spring Fest for the second year in an effort to promote environmental action and awareness,” said Division of Parks and Open Space Director Vecchio. “This event is an excellent opportunity to celebrate our parks and open spaces and learn how we can take action to protect our planet through the conservation and care for nature.”

To learn more about the event, please visit here.

Those with questions regarding the event should contact Alexandra Vecchio at avecchio@brooklinema.gov.

Jennifer M. Paster Sworn In As Brookline’s Police Chief

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Town Administrator Chas Carey is pleased to announce that Jennifer M. Paster has officially begun her new role as Chief of Police.

Chief Paster, a 23-year veteran of the Brookline Police Department, was sworn in during a public ceremony at the Brookline Public Library’s Hunneman Hall on Wednesday morning.

“It is truly an honor for me to step into the role of Chief,” said Chief Paster. “I am grateful for the overwhelming support from my department and the Brookline community.”

Chief Paster began her career with the Brookline Police Department as a patrol officer in 2000. In 2005, she began working in the detective division serving as an intelligence investigator. During this time, she served as the department’s liaison to multiple agencies including Boston Regional Intelligence Center, Commonwealth Fusion Center, New England State Police Information Network, FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force and the Violent Criminal Apprehension Program.

In 2011, she was promoted to patrol sergeant where she supervised officers in the patrol division, assisted with performance and professional development and acted as the shift’s commanding officer, as needed. She later took on the role of administrative sergeant, where she served for four years.

Chief Paster was appointed to the role of Lieutenant in 2017, where she coordinated crisis intervention team (CIT) efforts across all department shifts/divisions. During this time, she taught six 40‐hour CIT courses for sworn law enforcement officers in the greater Boston area. She also served as assistant court prosecutor for the Brookline District Court in the absence of a full‐time prosecutor.

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While serving the role of Deputy Superintendent in 2021, she oversaw operations of the Community Service Division, the Emergency Management Coordinator, Youth and Family Resource Officers, Elder Affairs Officers, and the Crime Analysis Unit. Additionally, she was responsible for training and accreditation compliance, managing the department’s social media platforms and maintaining union and management relations.

Since last summer, she has served as the department’s acting chief. In this role, she was responsible for overseeing command staff and all levels of the department to ensure sustained day-to-day operations and deliver efficient public safety services to the community. Additionally, she worked to develop collaborative relationships with town officials, community agencies, government officials, and residents to maintain awareness and address issues of public safety.

“Chief Paster has been a stalwart member of the Brookline Police Department for over two decades, and has had a hand in nearly all of the agency’s work on behalf of our community during that time,” Town Administrator Carey said. “She’s a proven leader who has built strong relationships with countless stakeholders, and I am confident that she is the ideal person to serve as Brookline’s chief of police.”

Chief Paster is a member of the National Association of Women Law Enforcement Executives (NAWLEE), the International Association of Chiefs of Police, Women Thriving Inc, and the Police Executive Research Forum (PERF). She is also a member of the Brookline Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors and a board member of the Massachusetts Association of Women in Law Enforcement (MAWLE).

Chief Paster holds a bachelor’s degree in sociology from Union College, a master’s degree in criminal justice from Western New England College and is currently working towards a master’s degree in social work from Boston College.

From left: Chas Carey, Town Clerk Ben Kaufman, Select Board Member Mike Sandman, Chief Paster, Select Board Members Paul Warren and John VanScoyoc.

Chief Paster has officially begun her new role as Chief of Police.

Brookline Early Education Program Celebrating 50th Anniversary

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The Brookline Eary Education Program (BEEP) is celebrating 50 years in the community with an art show showcasing student work.

The BEEP community, public and press are invited to the opening reception and exhibition at Brookline Public Library’s Hunneman Hall. The exhibition runs from May 18 through June 26, 2023, with an opening reception scheduled for Sunday, June 04, 2023, between the hours of 03:00 p.m. and 04:30 p.m.

“This exhibit spotlights what’s creatively possible for children as young as 2-5 years old in an inclusive early education environment – artistically, cognitively, socially and emotionally,” Principal Margaret Eberhardt said. “These high-quality art experiences with a local artist in the classroom and with the support of our teachers can serve as a model. We are making this rich collaboration visible to the community at large.”

These artworks, chosen and curated with teacher and student input, stem from art processes designed and led in the classroom by artist Erin Palazzolo Loparo. The works incorporate traditional and non-traditional mindful materials exploration and experimentation based on the works of artists Yayoi Kusama, Barnett Newman, Pablo Picasso, and Imagine.

The program also offered a unique opportunity to share connections between a working artist and the work of students and teachers. This innovative early education art program begins by sharing a story and a presentation and is followed by artmaking. Featured authors included Sarah Suzuki, Mo Willems, Nina Laden, Anne Rockwell, Katherine Ayres and Christie Matheson.

Made possible by a generous grant from the Brookline Education Foundation, the exhibition showcases original artwork and documents the mindful, discovery-driven process behind it. It features over 250 students’ art, ages 2-5 years old, across 23 classrooms.

According to Palazzolo Loparo, “Collaborating with BEEP in this way is entirely joy-filled. We’ve created a transformative model for arts in early education where every child is experimenting, making choices and finding meaning.”

To view selected high-resolution images, please visit here.

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About BEEP

The Brookline Early Education Program (BEEP) is a research-based, innovative “inclusive environment where all children… can learn social competency, develop cognitive motor and language skills and expand their understanding of themselves and the world in which they live.” BEEP offers 23 classes across 6 sites throughout the town and serves children with a range of developmental levels and from diverse cultural backgrounds. BEEP Preschool programs are one-year models that serve children ages 2.9- 3.2 and BEEP Pre-kindergarten programs are two-year programs and serve children ages 3-5. All classrooms are supervised by the Principal for Early Education and two Early Childhood Program Coordinators. Small class size, highly qualified teaching staff, and small pupil-teacher ratios and multi-disciplinary teams combine to support children in the early years of their education.

To learn more, please visit here.

About BEEP Artist, Erin Palazzolo Loparo

Erin Palazzolo Loparo MS-ATR is a former BEEP parent, local artist/teacher and registered art therapist who has scientific artwork on permanent display at Harvard Medical School.

To view Erin’s artwork and commissions please visit here.

About Brookline Education Foundation

This art grant, administered by BEF, has been generously funded by an anonymous donor family to support BEEP’s inclusive programming.

The Friends Of Brookline Public Health Invite Community To Participate In Walk For Hunger, Support Brookline Thrives

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The Friends of Brookline Public Health invite members of the community to join them and the Brookline Food Pantry in supporting Brookline Thrives by walking in the 2023 Walk for Hunger, hosted by Project Bread.

The Walk for Hunger, a fun-filled three-mile walk, will take place on Sunday, May 07, 2023, at 09:00 a.m. at the Boston Common. Participants will meet at the “Embrace” sculpture at 08:45 a.m.

The Friends of Brookline Public Health are walking in partnership with the Brookline Food Pantry to support Brookline Thrives, a weekend food program that offers free food bags to local families who could benefit from additional food options for their children. Each child’s bag contains two breakfast items, two lunch items, milk, fruit, and snacks for the weekend. Nearly 500 Brookline school children receive these food bags weekly.

The team hopes to raise a total of $4,000, and 60 percent of all funds raised will go directly to Brookline Thrives.

To join the Brookline team or support the walk with a donation, please visit here.

To learn more about Project Bread’s Walk for Hunger, please visit here.

Brookline Department Of Public Works To Offer Household Hazardous Waste Recycling Program For Residents

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Commissioner Erin Chute Gallentine would like to announce that the Brookline Department of Public Works will offer a Household Hazardous Waste Recycling Program to residents again this year.

As part of the program, residents can safely dispose of hazardous and universal waste items at Brookline’s Household Hazardous Waste Recycling Facility, 815 Newton Street, every Tuesday from 07:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., from May 02, 2023 through October 31, 2023.

The program is free to all Brookline residents. Proof of residency is required.

The Household Hazardous Waste Recycling Facility accepts a wide variety of materials, including lightbulbs / CFLs, batteries, oil-based paint, mercury-containing products, fuels, garden fertilizers, and more. Items such as latex/water-based paint, asbestos, infectious / biological wastes, prescription medicines, and commercial hazardous waste are not accepted.

Tires, electronics, and small appliances are the only bulk items that residents may drop-off at the Hazardous Waste Facility. Residents who utilize the municipal trash service can call 617-730-2156 to schedule a curbside pickup for all other bulk items, including furniture, mattresses, and large appliances such as refrigerators or washing machines.

A complete list of materials that are and are not accepted at the Hazardous Waste Facility can be viewed here.

The Department of Public Works requests that all visitors adhere to the following guidelines to ensure the health and safety of residents and DPW staff while utilizing the disposal service:

  • Keep products in their original containers, which have important safety and disposal information on the label. Products in non-original containers will not be accepted.
  • Never mix hazardous or toxic products. Mixing products could cause a violent or sometimes explosive reaction.
  • Transport items in the trunk of a car or bed of a truck. Materials should be packed carefully so nothing will spill during transportation.
  • Residents must stay in their vehicles at all times upon arriving at the Hazardous Waste Facility. DPW staff will safely remove materials from the vehicle.
  • Smoking and vaping are prohibited at the Hazardous Waste Facility.

Additional universal waste disposal locations will be located at:

  • Brookline Senior Center, 93 Winchester Street, open Monday through Friday from 08:30 a.m. to 05:00 p.m. This location will only accept single-use/rechargeable batteries, filled aerosol cans, and lightbulbs that are a maximum length of 50 inches.
  • Brookline Public Works Town Hall Office, 333 Washington Street, open Monday through Thursday from 08:00 a.m. to 05:00 p.m., and Friday from 08:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. This location will only accept single-use / rechargeable batteries.
  • Brookline Public Works Municipal Service Center, 870 Hammond Street, open Mondays from 12:30 p.m. to 03:00 p.m., Wednesdays from 07:00 a.m. to 03:00 p.m., and Fridays from 07:00 a.m. to 03:00 p.m. by appointment only. This location will only accept single-use / rechargeable batteries and lightbulbs.

To make an appointment, please contact Environmental Health and Safety Coordinator, Patrick O’Neill, at poneill@brooklinema.gov.

“The Department of Public Works is thrilled to be able to offer this program to Brookline residents again this year,” said Commissioner Gallentine. “Our Household Hazardous Waste Recycling Program provides a terrific opportunity for all residents to protect the environment and responsibly dispose of household hazardous materials at no cost.”

For more information on hazardous waste collection programs, please visit here.

Brookline Farmers’ Market Coupon Program For Eligible Residents Returning In 2023

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Brookline.com
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Health Commissioner Sigalle Reiss and the Brookline Department of Public Health and Human Services announce that the Department’s free food coupon program for income-eligible families will return this summer at the Brookline Farmers’ Market.

The free food coupon program offers eligible Brookline families the opportunity to purchase fresh fruits and vegetables utilizing vouchers. Over 600 Brookline households enrolled in the program last year and spent nearly $34,000 shopping among 22 vendors who offer fruits, vegetables, meat, dairy products, and other food items.

Eligibility is extended to individuals and families who reside in Brookline Housing Authority (BHA) properties, residents whose household income meets federal poverty level guidelines, and residents whose children attend a Brookline school through programs such as METCO who meet eligibility guidelines.

Coupons will be valid at the Farmers’ Market starting Thursday, June 1 through the end of the season in November. Individuals and families of two will receive $50 in coupons while households of three or more will receive $100 in coupons. Families will receive the coupons once during the season.

Staff from the Public Health Department will be at locations throughout Brookline for registration. Coupon books for the Farmers’ Market will be distributed at that time.

Public registration sites will be located at:
Brookline Senior Center, 93 Winchester Street, on Wednesday, May 24, 2023, from 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Brookline Farmers’ Market, Thursday, June 01, 2023, from 01:30 p.m. – 06:00 p.m. Registration also will take place at BHA housing sites.

Additional information will be available here.

Those with questions should contact Lynne Karsten, Director of Community Health, at 617-730-2336 or by e-mail at lkarsten@brooklinema.gov.

Attention Hospital CEO’s: Please “Share The Wealth” To Support Bedside Nurses

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Brookline.com
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Nurses have been long overdue for better salaries and the accommodation of on-site call rooms. Hospitals generate billions of dollars in revenue annually.  Hospital CEO’s receive salaries that range from $1 to $7 million annually. Is sitting in an executive suite of a hospital behind a mahogany desk, floors away from the frenetic patient care taking place 24/7 really worth a salary of $1 to $7 million dollars per year? How much would a safe on-site overnight suite for nurses including beds and shower facilities cost? Could those million-dollar CEO salaries instead go toward significantly increasing bedside nursing salaries? Could hospital CEO’s find it in them to “share the wealth“ to improve the working conditions and life of the bedside nurse?

Nurses are leaving bedside nursing in hospitals at alarming rates. Bedside nursing work is stressful both physically and mentally. Staffing and scheduling challenges plague the nursing profession.

Hospitals need to make improvements to the poor work environment that often leads to nursing burnout and turnover. Due to continual understaffing, nurses feel like they are constantly on call, even if they are not. In order to attract more nurses to working in hospital settings, hospital environments are going to have to become more attractive for nurses. This means incentives such as increase in salaries and providing on-site nurse call rooms. If hospitals want to recruit and retain the nursing workforce needed to provide optimal patient care, they must offer nurses more than a pat on the back and the occasional 10 boxes of pizza lunches.

Many nurses travel to large Boston hospitals from Cape Cod, Rhode Island, New Hampshire, Maine, Vermont and they sometimes work double and triple shifts. Nurses often resign from their positions at hospitals for a variety of reasons such as understaffing, stressful conditions and lousy pay scales. However, many nurses resign due to costly parking fees and commuting long hours for their 12 hour shifts. Many younger new nurses have mounds of student loan debt and are unable to afford hotels for overnite stays due to a long commute. They instead, sometimes sleep overnight in their cars in order to make the next early morning 12 hour grueling shift.

Hospitals have always provided residents and MD’s overnight on call rooms within the hospital, rightly so, given their busy schedules and overnight on call duties. However, nurses are not provided with safe, overnight on-call rooms within hospitals. If anything proved there is a need for this it was the CoViD-19 pandemic. In order to recruit, retain and accommodate nurses for unexpected double and triple shifts, they should be generously compensated and be provided with safe, on-site overnite nursing call rooms within the hospital at no cost.

Nurses are the lifeblood of any hospital. MD’s and nurses work hand and hand and hospitals cannot function effectively without both. Therefore, hospital CEO’s should be making efforts to support the bedside nurse with what they need and deserve to perform their jobs well. Providing a significant increase in salary and on call overnight accommodations would help in the short term and long term to recruit and retain highly skilled nurses. Nurses do not need more pizza or “Cookie Appreciation Days” in appreciation for their work.  Bedside nurses need and deserve to be paid well for the backbreaking, exhausting, physical, mental and emotional work they perform on a daily basis. So hospital CEO’s, how about “sharing the wealth” to support bedside nurses?

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About Mary Beth Muckian, BSN, RN

Mary Beth Muckian, BSN, RN is a graduate of Boston College and Regis College. She has been a nurse for 17 years  and currently works as a Utilization Review Manager. She has worked over her nursing career in the areas of bedside nursing,  Nursing Research and Occupational Health Nursing.

Town Of Brookline Invites Residents To Second Hazard Mitigation Plan Forum

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Brookline.com
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The Town of Brookline is developing a Hazard Mitigation Plan that identifies and prioritizes actions the town can take to mitigate the impacts of natural hazards and climate change. According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), hazard mitigation planning reduces loss of life and property by minimizing the impact of disasters.

Community members will have an opportunity to contribute ideas for making the town more resilient to natural hazards such as flooding, snowstorms, high winds and extreme temperatures.

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Brookline developed a Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness (MVP) plan in 2017 that also identified possible actions to mitigate risks to natural hazards and climate change. The 2023 Brookline Hazard Mitigation Plan will include all identified actions that are still relevant today.

The plan is being developed by the Office of Emergency Management and members of Brookline’s Emergency Management Team. Jamie Caplan Consulting, LLC, a Northampton-based firm, is supporting the effort via the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency.

FEMA approval and town adoption of the Hazard Mitigation Plan allows the town to apply for pre- and post-disaster hazard mitigation grant funds.

“We encourage residents to attend this important public forum and help us to create a mitigation plan that could directly impact them and the town they live in,” Chief Sullivan said.

The event will take place on Thursday, May 04, 2023, between the hours of 02:00 p.m. – 03:00 p.m. and will be held virtually. Community members can access the meeting via Zoom.

To register, please visit here.

For questions regarding this project, please contact Cheryl Anne Snyder, Emergency Management Coordinator, Town of Brookline, at 617-730-2656 or via e-mail at csnyder@brooklinema.gov.

Town Of Brookline Announces Street Closures For Boston Marathon

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Brookline.com
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Town Administrator Chas Carey and Acting Police Chief Jennifer Paster announce that several roads will be closed on Monday, April 17, 2023 to accommodate the 127th running of the Boston Marathon.

Beacon Street will be closed to inbound traffic.

Additionally, the following areas will be closed to traffic:
Chestnut Hill Ave at Clinton Road and Dean Road Washington Street at Park Street Harvard Street at Longwood Ave and Sewall Ave Saint Paul Street at Longwood Ave and Sewall Ave Sewall Ave at Marshall Street Roads will close starting at 09:00 a.m. on the day of the race and are expected to reopen around 05:30 p.m. Vehicles parked on Beacon Street will be towed beginning on Sunday, April 16, 2023, at 04:00 p.m.

Residents are advised to plan ahead and seek alternative routes.

During the event, pedestrian crossing is only permitted on Beacon Street at Tappan, Webster and Hawes Streets. Crossing is permitted only if it is not a danger or obstruction to runners. Crossing is not permitted from approximately 01:00 p.m. to 03:00 p.m.

Additionally, no traffic hearings will be held on Saturday or Monday.

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