By Ellen Walker, Special to the Gazette
“In the end, it’s extra effort that separates a winner from second place. But winning takes a lot more than that, too. It starts with complete command of the fundamentals. Then it takes desire, determination, discipline, and self-sacrifice. And finally, it takes a great deal of love, fairness, and respect for your fellow man. Put all these together, and even if you don’t win, how can you lose?” – Jesse Owens, American Track and Field athlete who won four gold medals in the 1936 Olympics
September was a whirlwind of a month beginning with the well-attended community event presented by Mission Hill Main Streets 25th anniversary Planning Committee. Judging from the responses and feedback received from attendees, it was a huge success. Including both the historic and Mission Church tours, delicious food samples from Mission Hill restaurants, free give aways by sponsors, fabulous face painting, pony rides and a jazz performance by Ilya Blazh Trio, the event culminated in a live public auction of the Flann O’Brien statue. In addition, the Tobin gym was the site of basketball games by the Mighty Missions and Boston Self Help Center’s Volts hockey team – a full day of excitement for everyone. Several longtime residents commented that “the 25th anniversary programs have brought out the best of our community with presentations that are entertaining, educational, diverse and FUN!” A big thank you to participants and sponsors who supported and took part in the day.
Many of you attended the lecture by Boston historian Anthony Sammarco at the Parker Hill Library as part of this celebration. The audience was attentive and engaged. According to librarian Karen Gallagher, two new collections will be added to the library’s circulation due to the enthusiastic responses to local artisans’ work. Both Sammarco’s “Mission Hill Through Time,” and Dragan Grujic and Dan Vlahos’ “Mission Hill Presence. Absence. Transformation” books can be borrowed from the library collections.
MHMS is excited to be collaborating with Mission Hill residents Alison Pultinas and Mitch Hilton on historic tours of the neighborhood that will enhance the existing Walk Historic Mission Hill with two more tours. Aliece Dutson, President of Mission Grammar, is helping us to create a church tour. All tours will be digitally available on our app (https://explore.missionhillmainstreet.com). These tours are not to be missed by those who are interested in learning more about Mission Hill’s history, development and accomplishments. One enthusiast gushed “Five stars for the Lady of Perpetual Help tour by Father Anthony!” Watch for the upcoming launch dates later this year.
In September, the Museum of Fine Arts launched its new identity and messaging opening their doors to everyone and offering unique settings and exhibits that appeal across the board to new audiences. MHMS is proud to be collaborating closely with them to bring their messaging – Here all belong! – to the Mission Hill neighborhood. The Iconic Obama portraits are on view now through October 30th at @mfaboston. Additional FREE community dates include: September 19, October 10 (Indigenous Peoples’ Day) and October 30.
Be sure to mark your calendar for the ever-popular annual Halloween on the Hill hosted by BCYF Tobin Community Center. This event has become a neighborhood tradition that brings out the young children, youth, elderly and all ages in between. The date is Monday, October 31st and more details will follow!
In our ongoing series of highlighting some of Mission Hill’s exemplary individuals who are true entrepreneurs, this month we meet Vishal Amin, owner of the Subway Shop at 904 Huntington Avenue. He has been in business for over 10 years and speaks highly of the many customers who have come through his doors for years. This year, he also dealt with changes in the Huntington / S. Huntington area as the City established a pilot program that has challenged the community and impacted the local businesses. It took some time but Vishal – through his consistent, positive efforts to maintain his loyal customers and great staff – worked diligently to respect and welcome the newcomers to the area. As a result, they have reciprocated by being good neighbors and intentionally working to better their relationship. Do stop in and say “Hello” to Vishal and his staff!
Until next month, remember to Shop Small, Shop Local.