Hyde Park Legacy Business Spotlight

Hyde Park Legacy Business Spotlight – Akiki Auto Group

Akiki Auto Group has been part of Hyde Park’s story for decades. Akiki Auto Body was launched in 1986 by Mounir and Laura Akiki when they emigrated from Lebanon in 1972.  By the age of 12, their son Elias was already helping out at his father’s shop. Just a few years later, at only 19 years old, he took over the family business during tough times—with just one employee—and began to grow it into what it is today.

From those humble beginnings, Elias expanded step by step. In his early twenties, he opened Akiki Auto Repair, then took over the old Gibb Gas Station and transformed it into a gas station, car wash, and later a liquor store. By 38, he added a towing company. Akiki now employs more than 110 people. In 2018, Elias renovated the old foundry at 1550 River Street, giving new life to the building and making it a beautiful gateway into Hyde Park from Dedham.

But Akiki Auto Group has never been just about cars. The company now also offers heavy-duty truck repair, construction services, a powder coating plant, and even home remodeling. Elias has also bought and restored dozens of neglected houses and lots in the neighborhood, turning them into welcoming family homes.

Elias has always given back to Hyde Park in meaningful ways. He’s sponsored Hyde Park Main Streets fundraisers, supported kids’ sports teams, churches, schools, and rotary clubs, and helped make the holidays brighter through the annual Santa Caravan at the Anderson Tree Lighting—handing out thousands of dollars’ worth of Ron’s Ice Cream gift certificates and goody bags. He has also funded holiday decorations, banners, and even helped care for planters in the business district.

Of course, none of this would have been possible without the support of his “right hand,” Lisa M. Consalvo, who has been a key part of Akiki Auto Group’s growth. In 2023, Akiki Auto Group received the City of Boston Legacy Business Award.

Hyde Park is lucky to have Akiki Auto Group—not just as a successful business, but as a caring neighbor that helps make our community stronger and more beautiful.

Hyde Park Legacy Business Spotlight – Arbit Chiropractic

For more than 30 years, Arbit Chiropractic has been dedicated to keeping Hyde Park healthy, active, and thriving. Founded in 1993 by Dr. Jordan Arbit, who returned to Massachusetts from California to pursue his dream of opening a practice rooted in compassion, professionalism, and community care, Arbit Chiropractic has grown into a trusted name in local wellness.

Today, the family-run practice includes Dr. Jordan, his son Dr. Zachary Arbit, his wife Sharon and a dedicated team — all committed to providing quality care in a welcoming and supportive environment.
Patients often describe Arbit Chiropractic as a “mosaic practice,” where people from every background feel comfortable and cared for. Many have been coming for decades — and have referred friends and family — a true testament to the trust and results they deliver.

The team takes pride in educating patients about their health and creating a soothing space, complete with warm greetings and multi-ethnic music. If chiropractic care isn’t the right solution, they make sure you’re connected with the care you need elsewhere.

We’re proud to honor Arbit Chiropractic as a Hyde Park Legacy Business — a place where healing, diversity, and community come together to help generations live healthier lives.

Hyde Park Legacy Business Spotlight – B&G Dental

B&G Dental has been a cornerstone of dental care in Hyde Park for nearly a century, beginning as a neighborhood practice in the 1920s.

In 1979, two dentists—Rick Bankhead, DDS and Paul Groipen, DDS—joined forces by purchasing the practice and formally branding it Bankhead & Groipen (later “B&G Dental”). Over time, they built B&G into a multispecialty practice known for combining technical excellence with patient-centered service.
In 2018, Dr. Stuart MacDonald — who first worked at B&G as a college student — became the owner and Dental Director, carrying forward the legacy of Bankhead and Groipen while introducing new technology and services.

Today, with locations in Hyde Park and West Roxbury, B&G Dental has 31 dedicated staff members, including doctors, serving generations of families. The practice remains true to its roots: blending tradition with innovation and always putting patients first. The familiar neon flamingos in the windows stand as a playful reminder that this long-standing practice is both serious about care and a proud part of the community.

Hyde Park Legacy Business Spotlight – Carroll-Thomas Funeral Home

Carroll-Thomas Funeral Home has been part of Hyde Park since 1905, when Michael Carroll first opened the doors. In 1932, Al Thomas Sr. took over as funeral director, beginning a family tradition of service that continues today.

In 1999, Alex Thomas stepped in to lead, and in 2024, his sons Alex Jr. and George officially took over as their father retired. After trying different careers after college, both went on to complete the two-year Funeral Director program — following the call back to the family business and the community it serves.

For generations, families in Hyde Park — and even those who have moved away — have trusted Carroll-Thomas during life’s most important moments. New residents also turn to them thanks to the good experiences shared by word of mouth.
More than 100 years later, Carroll-Thomas remains committed to caring for families with dignity, compassion, and personal service.

Hyde Park Legacy Business Spotlight – Central Paint & Supply – True Value

Central Paint & Supply has been serving Hyde Park since 1948, when WWII veteran Stanley Canner first imagined and opened the store. Stan’s wife, Roberta, knew the business well and worked at the register while their four sons, who all grew up in Hyde Park, helped in the store, making it a true family business.

After Stan’s passing in 1984, Roberta and their oldest son Barry kept the store going, with Barry later bringing in new technology to modernize operations. In 2011, Stan and Roberta’s third son, Neil, officially became the owner. Neil had already launched the popular “Mowers and Blowers” service in the 1990s, repairing lawn mowers and snow blowers for neighbors across the community. In 2015, Neil’s efforts were rewarded as Central Paint & Supply won Main Street’s Business of the Year. Even as he became ill, Neil continued to say that his top priority was to “keep the hardware store open because the Hyde Park community depends on it.”

When Neil passed in 2017, the store was kept running by longtime manager Diane Kolczewski and family trustee, Stan and Roberta’s niece, Gail Forrest until the right new owner could be found. In 2018 – exactly 70 years after its founding – Al Meranda, who had built his career in hardware stores, purchased Central Paint & Supply as his third location.

Today, Al’s son Steven Meranda manages all three stores and spends much of his time right here in Hyde Park, ensuring the community continues to receive the same dedication and service that began over 75 years ago.

Central Paint & Supply – True Value remains more than just a hardware store — it’s a cornerstone of neighborhood life and a lasting part of Hyde Park’s history.

Hyde Park Legacy Business Spotlight – Dance Academy

For more than 40 years, Dance Academy has been a vibrant part of the Hyde Park community — helping generations of dancers find their rhythm, confidence, and love for movement. Founded in 1983 by lifelong friends Terri Perrotta and Corrine Melvin while they were still in high school, the studio has grown from humble beginnings into a true neighborhood institution. It first opened its doors on Fairmount Avenue, later moved to River Street, and today welcomes 350 students to its current home on Business Street — and they’re still accepting new enrollments.

What remains constant is the heart of the studio: a family-like environment where students are supported and inspired. Over the decades, Dance Academy has performed at countless community events, supported local causes, and created lasting memories for dancers of all ages and skill levels. Their dedication hasn’t gone unnoticed — Terri and Corrine have been recognized with community service awards, and in 2024, Dance Academy received the City of Boston Legacy Business Award.

Join us in celebrating Dance Academy, a beloved Hyde Park legacy that continues to move the community — one step, one leap, and one pirouette at a time.

Hyde Park Legacy Business Spotlight – Ferrara’s Greenhouse

What began as a hobby in 1975 soon blossomed into a family business. By 1980, Beatrice and Severio Ferrara had turned their passion for growing into Ferrara’s Greenhouse, a Hyde Park staple that has been brightening the neighborhood for decades.

In its early days, the greenhouse business was so successful that the Ferraras supplied flowers to Stop & Shop and maintained nine greenhouses. Over the years, a few were removed to make way for new family housing, and today, four greenhouses remain. At one time, Ferrara’s stayed open year-round, but with rising heating costs, they now open from spring to fall, keeping the tradition alive season after season.

The Ferrara family’s roots in Hyde Park run deep. Their oldest son once sold flowers on a corner along Hyde Park Ave as a teenager, and today, Hyde Park Main Streets proudly sources flowers from Ferrara’s each June to fill the 37 planters across our commercial district.
Though Beatrice is technically retired, she continues to open the greenhouse each year because Severio loves it so much — and because their neighbors insist that Hyde Park wouldn’t be the same without it.

Hyde Park Main Streets is proud to honor Ferrara’s Greenhouse as a true Legacy Business, whose beauty and dedication have enriched our community for generations.

Hyde Park Legacy Business Spotlight – Hyde Park Pediatrics

Since 1979, Hyde Park Pediatrics (HPP) has been caring for generations of families in Boston and beyond. Founded by Dr. Lasker, the practice quickly became a trusted place for children’s health. In 1990, Dr. Sax joined the team, and when Dr. Lasker retired in 2006, the practice continued to grow and thrive.

What began with five doctors has now expanded to six physicians and four nurse practitioners, making HPP a true one-stop shop for children’s health care. Recognizing the importance of treating the whole child, they expanded three years ago to create dedicated space for behavioral health specialists. In addition to their Hyde Park office, HPP also serves families from their Milton location, caring for patients from every neighborhood in Boston and many surrounding towns.

Hyde Park Pediatrics is more than just a medical office — it’s a place of continuity and trust. Some families can proudly say that HPP cared for their grandparents, parents, and now their children — a true testament to the quality of care and lasting relationships built over decades.

Hyde Park Main Streets is proud to recognize Hyde Park Pediatrics as a Legacy Business, honoring more than 45 years of service, compassion, and commitment to our community.

Hyde Park Legacy Business Spotlight – Kelly’s Liquors

For decades, Kelly’s Liquors has been a fixture in Hyde Park. Originally started by the Kelly family, the business was later purchased by the brothers-in-law in 1985, and in 1999, Janet Giannetti took over ownership. Under her leadership, Kelly’s has continued to serve the neighborhood with the same family spirit and community pride.

The building itself has its own story — once a two-story structure, it was rebuilt as a single level after a fire. Over the years, Kelly’s has seen customer tastes change too: once, Budweiser was the beer of choice; today, Corona tops the list.

Kelly’s has always been a family business at heart. Many relatives worked behind the counter over the years before moving on to their own careers and families. And in true Hyde Park spirit, Janet has given back to the community — in 2021, Kelly’s donated $500 to Keep Hyde Park Beautiful after the collection of 10,000 nip bottles.

Now, Janet is looking toward retirement, hoping to spend more time with her two “kids” — beloved dogs Corona and Ainsley.

Hyde Park Main Streets is proud to honor Kelly’s Liquors as a Legacy Business, celebrating its long history and contributions to our community.

Hyde Park Legacy Business Spotlight – Kenney’s Cleaners

Kenney’s Cleaners has been keeping Hyde Park looking sharp since the 1950s. Originally started by the Kenney family, the business was later sold to the O’Briens before being taken over by the Salimbas family, who have proudly run it for more than four decades.

In 1980, George Salimbas’ father stepped in to continue the Kenney’s legacy, with his mother working as the seamstress. Growing up, George and his two sisters were always lending a hand around the shop, making the family business a true part of their daily lives. By the time George turned 21, he was ready to take over himself.

Today, under George’s leadership, Kenney’s Cleaners has grown to 9 employees and continues to thrive. Generations of Hyde Park families have relied on Kenney’s for their dry cleaning, tailoring, and garment care needs. More than just a business, it has become a neighborhood staple—where personal service, trust, and community connection come first.

Kenney’s Cleaners is not only a place where clothes are cared for, but where Hyde Park’s history lives on, one family at a time.

Hyde Park Legacy Business Spotlight – Lowney Medical

In 1974, Dr. Charles William Lowney and his wife, Irene, transformed a burned-out furniture store in Cleary Square into the Lowney Medical Building, bringing much-needed health care access to Hyde Park. What began as one physician’s practice became a cornerstone of the neighborhood, known for compassionate care and a true sense of community.

For decades, Dr. Lowney cared for thousands of patients — not only as their doctor, but as a trusted friend who listened, paid close attention, and treated each person with dignity. Generations of families came to rely on him, with children, grandchildren, and even out-of-town patients traveling back to Hyde Park for his care.

Lowney Medical Associates was also very much a family effort. Irene managed the office while raising their eight children, and their daughter, Irene Lowney Esdale, continues to carry on that role today. Their sons, Dr. Jay and Dr. Mike, joined their father in practice, ensuring that the family’s medical legacy would continue. The City of Boston honored Irene’s many contributions by naming the street beside the practice Irene Lowney Lane.

Though Dr. Lowney and Irene have both passed, their impact on Hyde Park endures. They are remembered not only for their professional excellence but for their warmth, generosity, and devotion to both family and community.

Hyde Park Main Streets is proud to honor Lowney Medical Associates as a true Legacy Business — a lasting symbol of care and community in Hyde Park.

Hyde Park Legacy Business Spotlight – The Musto Companies

Mario Musto Construction has been a cornerstone of Hyde Park since its founding in 1978. Over the years, the Musto family grew the business to include Hyde Park Masonry Supply in 1982, Hyde Park Concrete in 1995, and even ran the beloved Mario’s Restaurant from 1982–2007. A highlight in the restaurant’s history came in 1993, when it hosted a healthcare roundtable with Senator Ted Kennedy, Hillary Clinton, and Tipper Gore.

After Mario’s passing in 1994, his sons Anthony and Mario Jr. took over the construction business, while their three sisters helped their mother, Maria, run the restaurant. Today, the next generation has joined in — Anthony’s son Brandon and Mario Jr.’s son Marco now play key roles at Hyde Park Masonry Supply.

Across all businesses, they now employ 20 people who continue the family’s tradition of excellence.
Soon, all branches of the family’s businesses will unite under one name: The Musto Companies. Through decades of hard work, the Musto family has remained deeply rooted in Hyde Park and continues to believe in the strength and good people of this community.

Hyde Park Legacy Business Spotlight – One Step Beyond Martial Arts

One Step Beyond (OSB) Martial Arts has been part of Hyde Park since 1982, when founder Otto Pozzo started it as a martial arts fight club for adults off Hyde Park Avenue. In 1989, Gary Eblan and Paul Asmar took over and expanded the program to include kids’ classes. Paul later went solo and in 2001 sold the school to Tony Hanley, whose daughter Sara eventually joined him in running the business.

In 2019, OSB moved into its current home at 1 Westinghouse Plaza, giving the school more space to grow. Just a year later, in 2020, ownership transitioned to Marie McKenna and Erin Smith. They faced the tough challenge of rebuilding after COVID, when enrollment had dropped to just 10 students.
Thanks to their dedication, OSB now has more than 75 students, ranging in age from 3 to 76, and even offers a special Friday class for adults 55+. The school also trains students who compete internationally as part of Team One Step Beyond.

Marie and Erin are highly accomplished martial artists themselves — both hold 2nd-degree black belts and multiple World Championship titles. Their success and leadership inspire students to build confidence, focus, and respect both inside and outside the dojo.

For more than 40 years, OSB has been more than a martial arts school — it has been a community space where people of all ages discover strength, discipline, and the courage to take “one step beyond.”

Hyde Park Legacy Business Spotlight – Parkway Cleansing Center

For decades, Parkway Cleaners has been a trusted part of the Hyde Park community — a place where neighbors know they can count on quality service and friendly faces. Today, the business is run by Trang Nguyen alongside her brother Tony, who manages the administrative side of operations. Trang also works closely with her sister-in-law and cousin, making Parkway Cleaners a true family-run business.

The shop’s story goes back more than three decades. In 2017, Trang and Tony took over the business from a cousin who had successfully run it for 22 years. Before that, Parkway Cleaners was owned by another local family for several years — building on a tradition of hard work and dedication to the community.

Parkway Cleaners is a full-service laundromat offering wash-and-fold service, dry cleaning, and even a seamstress on site for alterations. A few years ago, the family made a significant investment to improve the shop, updating everything from the ceiling, walls, and counters to the plumbing and laundry machines — all to provide an even better experience for their loyal customers.

Their commitment shows: Parkway Cleaners serves not just Hyde Park residents, but also customers from surrounding neighborhoods and towns. Many even return after moving away — a testament to the trust, quality, and care this local business has built over the years.

We’re proud to celebrate Parkway Cleaners as one of Hyde Park’s legacy businesses and a shining example of dedication, family, and community spirit.

Hyde Park Legacy Business Spotlight – Richy’s

If you’ve ever stepped inside Richy’s, you know it’s more than just a breakfast and lunch spot — it’s part of Hyde Park’s story.

Back in 1954, Richy opened the doors to Hyde Park Pharmacy on River Street. It wasn’t just a pharmacy — it was also a variety store, a place to grab a bite, and a gathering spot where neighbors helped neighbors. Over time, the food counter became the heart of the business.

When Richy retired, his daughters Paula and Patty Ferzoco rebranded the business in 2012, focusing fully on food but keeping the same warm sense of community. Patty had worked full-time at Richy’s right after college, and Paula joined her full-time in 1997. Together, they’ve carried on their father’s dream. They’ll tell you it’s a “heartfelt business” — one that’s still here because of the good people in Hyde Park who continue to show up and support them.

Over the years, Richy’s has given many neighborhood kids their first jobs and continues to support local charities — another reason why it remains such an important part of the community.

Step inside today and you’ll find a place filled with character — from the counter where neighbors swap stories to the regulars who make Richy’s feel like home. It’s the kind of spot that’s hard to find anymore, and that’s exactly why it’s so special.

Named a Legacy Business in 2023
Voted Best of Boston in 2024 & 2025

Here’s to Paula, Patty, and the entire Ferzoco family — thank you for keeping Richy’s going strong for more than 70 years. Hyde Park wouldn’t be the same without you.

Hyde Park Legacy Business Spotlight – Riverside Theatre Works

For over 40 years, Riverside Theatre Works (RTW) has been a vibrant hub of the arts in Hyde Park. It all began in Readville with music teacher Marietta Phinney, who wanted local kids to have access to performance opportunities. With just 12 students, she led them to sing “Down by the Riverside” — inspiring the name Riverside Theatre Works.

By 1983, RTW moved into a room at French’s Opera House in Logan Square, and just two years later, the theater space became its home. Today, RTW is still the only live theater in Hyde Park, featuring a 156-seat stage, dance studio, rehearsal rooms, and more — a space where art, community, and creativity thrive.

From 12 students in a backyard to more than 250 students and 15 faculty today, RTW has been a “second home” for generations. Alumni have gone on to Broadway, national tours, and stages across Boston, often returning to teach, mentor, and inspire the next generation.

Marietta once said, “The community is really good to us” — and RTW continues to return that gift by making theatre accessible, joyful, and deeply rooted in Hyde Park.

We’re proud to honor Riverside Theatre Works as a true Hyde Park Legacy Business. rtwboston.org

Hyde Park Legacy Business Spotlight – Rockland Trust

Hyde Park Savings Bank was founded more than a century ago to serve local families and businesses with savings accounts, mortgages, and loans. For generations, it became known as the trusted neighborhood bank where personal service and community came first.

In 2011, the bank rebranded as Blue Hills Bank, reflecting growth beyond Hyde Park while keeping its hometown roots. Even with the new name, its commitment to Hyde Park never wavered. The bank became a regular supporter of community programs, sponsoring events, youth activities, and nonprofit initiatives.

In 2019, Blue Hills Bank merged with Rockland Trust, bringing even more resources while preserving the same community-first values. Rockland Trust has continued the tradition of giving back, strengthening its presence as both a financial partner and community ally.

Their sponsorships help make neighborhood favorites possible — from seasonal celebrations and festivals to annual fundraisers and cultural events. These investments ensure that Hyde Park traditions remain strong and accessible for all residents.

Through every chapter — Hyde Park Savings, Blue Hills Bank, and now Rockland Trust — the mission has stayed the same: to support the community with trust, care, and consistency.

Today, Rockland Trust is not only a bank, but also a proud partner in helping Hyde Park grow, thrive, and celebrate together.

Hyde Park Legacy Business Spotlight – Ron’s Ice Cream & Bowling

A true Hyde Park classic, Ron’s Ice Cream & Bowling has been bringing joy to the neighborhood since 1952. It all began when Julius Covitz transformed a former grocery store on Hyde Park Avenue into 20th Century Bowling Alleys, complete with ten candlepin lanes.

The family tradition continued when his son Ron took over and, in 1981, started making small-batch ice cream on site — a move that quickly earned Ron’s reputation for some of the best handcrafted flavors around. Today, the business remains proudly family-owned, with Ron’s son Jay Covitz co-owning and making updates while preserving its beloved vintage charm.

One of the few remaining candlepins bowling alleys in Boston, Ron’s has become a gathering place for generations — a spot to celebrate birthdays with custom cakes, enjoy fresh pizza and a full food menu, and now, even beer and wine. Their award-winning ice cream has been recognized multiple times as “Best of Boston” and even named one of the top ice cream destinations in the U.S. by National Geographic. They received the City of Boston Legacy Business Award in 2023.

A retro neighborhood treasure, Ron’s Ice Cream & Bowling is more than just a place to bowl or grab a cone — it’s a piece of Hyde Park history that continues to delight families decade after decade.

Hyde Park Legacy Business Spotlight – Tutto Italiano

When it comes to authentic Italian flavors, Tutto Italiano has been a Hyde Park favorite for nearly four decades — and it’s home to what many call the best Italian sandwich in Boston!

Opened in 1987 by Angelo Locilento, Tutto Italiano was inspired by his mother’s alimentari (grocery store) in Ferrandina, Italy, where quality ingredients, traditional recipes, and a love for good food were always at the heart of every meal. Angelo brought that same passion to Boston, baking fresh bread in an Italian deck oven using his mother’s original recipe and filling the shop with gourmet Italian products and wine.

Today, siblings Emilio and Marilena Locilento run the shop, with their father Angelo serving as consigliere. (He’s also the founder of Cambridge’s Gran Gusto, which he sold to partners in 2013.) Every day, fresh bread is baked on-site — from sub rolls and ciabatta to bastone and more — and every sandwich is custom-made to order, ensuring a special experience with every bite.

More than just a store, Tutto Italiano is a celebration of Italian tradition, family, and flavor. We’re proud to honor them as a Hyde Park Legacy Business — serving our community with warmth, authenticity, and the best sandwiches around for nearly 40 years!