What’s Happening on Main Streets

By Ellen Walker, Special to the Gazette

With all the heat advisories and humidity, it sure feels like this has been a record July for hot weather here in Boston.  One of the upsides has been a month full of meteor showers and the Comet Neowise!   Comet Neowise will not return for another 7,000 years; however, New England heat and humidity is staying with us! 

One of the obvious benefits of the heat wave is the blooming of beautiful flowers in planters placed around our neighborhood.  Our planters were put in front of vendors with one condition – they must water the plants on a regular basis.  This Summer, those vendors really came through!  When we see the colorful and healthy plants, we recognize the commitment of those who want to keep our neighborhood looking fresh and vibrant.

Mission Hill looks lively despite the pandemic and limited seating at various restaurants.  Mission Hill Main Streets wants to give a “shout out” to Mayor Marty Walsh, the Licensing Board, the Zoning Commission, Public Works and all the other City departments that have supported the efforts to provide our small businesses with the ability to add outdoor seating, adjust their business models and manage limited indoor seating following health and safety guidelines.   These steps have allowed many of our restaurants, coffee shops and small retailers to increase their business – and more will be participating throughout the Summer.  Who says only Europeans enjoy outdoor cafes?  Now you do not to have to travel far to experience the same.  Grab a seat and enjoy your meal at one of those restaurants with outdoor service before the Summer is over!

None of us knows when the pandemic will be officially under control.   I am reminded of all those who have succeeded in business, politics or the arts.  They all went through struggles, defeats and persevered.  As an advocate for small businesses, we know the time, energy and skills that are needed to survive and succeed.  We stand by our belief that small businesses are essential to the character of the neighborhood.  Fortunately, there is a broad base of community support for businesses in Mission Hill and we thankfully acknowledge all those who have contributed – it is the right thing to do.     

MHMS is still planning for our “Appreciation Award Gala” in November to thank the community for their ongoing support and the businesses and institutions that add vibrancy to the neighborhood.  We hope to see many of you at our annual event in November, if it is safe to gather.  In the meantime, please take a moment to congratulate this year’s award recipients as we thank them all for their support of Mission Hill:

• Business of the Year:  Penguin Pizza (Dermot Doyne and Pamela Carty)

• Volunteer of the Year:  Dan Weldon, MH Little League

• Outstanding Public Servant:  Mike O’Rourke, BPD Community Officer/B-2

• Golden Broom Award:  Kush Groove Shop (Mike Pires)

• The Kevin W. Fitzgerald Award:  Pat Flaherty, Mission Hill Housing Services

• Great Neighbor recipients:  Francisco Claudio, Rose Cotrone, Richard Giordano and Maria Weinograd!

For those of you who are reading this article, if you stop in at Tremont House of Pizza, 1590 Tremont Street, during the month of August and mention this article with your $10 minimum order, you will receive a free bottle of soda!  

Mission Hill Main Streets is looking forward to seeing you in the neighborhood as you “shop local, shop small!”  Stay healthy and safe.  Visit us on our webpage – www.missionhillmainstreet.com, “like” us on Facebook and download our free mobile app at Distrx.com to find out the latest on our Farmer’s Markets, restaurants and coffee shops in the neighborhood!

“In the middle of difficulty, lies opportunity.” – Albert Einstein

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