Ramler Park

I remember visiting the proposed site for Ramler Park several years ago. This vacant lot on Peterborough Street just a few blocks off of Park Drive in Boston was a derelict piece of property. It featured overgrown crab grass, broken glass, a tangle of weeds, and flattened beer cans. After the Ramler family who had operated a business in this Fenway neighborhood for many years generously donated the land, a group of community activists worked hard to raise the needed funds to create an urban oasis. At the grand opening this past Tuesday, a classical trio serenaded the arriving public while local merchants provided cold drinks. Lush gardens complete with a fountain, crushed stone walkways, inviting benches and a pergola for shade await those who will enjoy this city green space for years to come. I find that more and more I cannot read the daily newspaper or watch the nightly news because my mind cannot tolerate any more stories about abused children, murdered wives, and random drive by shootings. Here is a story that should have been front and center as a positve and refreshing model of an individual family's creative vision coupled with able and enthusiastic volunteers who successfully realized their mission to design an area where multi-generational groups can gather and enjoy each season outdoors in a blooming, welcoming spot.