On the beautiful spring afternoon of June 5th, community members and friends, elected officials, representatives from local environmental organizations and DCR gathered at Charlesgate Park for a tree-planting ceremony in honor of MMOC Chair Emerita Fran Gershwin. Sponsored by the Charlesgate Alliance, the event celebrated the planting of 14 trees, seven of which carry inscriptions to Fran from Mass Parks for All, Betsy Shure Gross and Gary L. Gross, the Chestnut Hill Book Club, and the Gershwin Family.
One of the speakers was Freddie Veikley, who saluted Fran with these words:
“I have been a Citizen’s advisory member of the MMOC for 30 years—since its inception.
Being at meetings with Fran was like getting a graduate degree in Environmental Law and Public Policy. While we, the members of the MMOC brought our own specific knowledge to the Committee, it was Fran’s dogged legal skills that refined the tasks, to ensure success of this multi-jurisdictional experiment in community engagement and environmental repair.
It was her unfailing contribution of time, knowledge, and expertise that kept us dedicated and engaged in this very long process.
Fran’s foundation was invaluable in the success of the Restoration, and in our ability, going forward, to see that the work is maintained and serves the interest of the public for many years ahead.
Fran was a remarkable woman. All the work she did was voluntary. We are deeply indebted to her.”
Kudos to Freddie and all the speakers. Special gratitude to City Council Sharon Durkan, who honored Fran with special commendations from the City of Boston.
Photos by Benjamin Cheung
