Reacting to Henriquez’s view of Parcel 18 “react-ivism”
In response to the assertions of the young man who is aspiring to public office (City Council candidate Carlos Henriquez, “Roxbury needs to move past politics of react-ivism,” Letter to the Editor, July 26, 2007): Do your homework!
You stated you have been following the Parcel 18 development process, which would qualify as “reactive,” but neglected to mention whether you actually got “proactive” and participated. This method of operation may be a contributing factor to your unanswered questions.
As one who participated in the nearly two-year Northeastern P-18 Task Force process, I suggest anyone who is truly interested in how the P-18 plan was developed take a look at the notes of all meetings, attendees, comments and actions — all of which are recorded with the Boston Redevelopment Authority.
Study them, then you can make an informed evaluation of the process and the positions of the people in that process — as well as who was there and who was not. Observation without information is bunk.
Bruce Bickerstaff
Member of the Northeastern University Task Force on
Parcel 18
Weighing in on the sober house issue
I really would like to say thank you for printing the article on the Safe Haven Sober Houses (“Roxbury residents protest sober homes,” July 26, 2007). We Roxbury residents truly need the various media channels’ support in reporting the ongoing deplorable conditions at this location that have had an impact on the quality of life for the residents living in the area.
I will continue to hope and pray that the legal system, as well as city and state officials, will not fail our community. We will continue to stay strong and fight this battle until positive changes occur.
Ruthie Burton
Via e-mail
A familiar face, an inspiring feeling
I just wanted to express my gratitude on being able to read such a wonderfully positive article on someone whose face I know (“In the News,” July 26, 2007).
I grew up with Junior (Robert) Lewis in the South End and I know what social and environmental obstacles he was faced with, growing up in Villa Victoria. Truly, it is an inspiring blessing to read this positive article on a boy that I knew from the ’hood. Junior’s story is the kind that books are written about.
Thank you, Banner, for reminding me that people — even black men — do survive the ghetto.
Sharon Akhimienho
Via e-mail
