CHANGE REPORT: Winners and Losers

WINNERS:

Olympics Bid The U.S. Olympic Committee chose Boston as America’s bidding city for the 2024 Olympics. Yes, Boston is going for the gold in its quest to host the future summer games and has beat San Francisco, Washington D.C. and Los Angeles in the Olympic sweepstakes.

Dr. Monica Bharel The chief medical officer at the Boston Health Care for the Homeless program was tapped by now Governor Charlie Baker as the next health commissioner of Massachusetts.

Paul Estes The Pilgrim contributor turned author Paul Estes penned his debut novel, a science-fiction space opera entitled Razza Freakin’ Aliens, while hunkering down in store doorways in Downtown Crossing.

Homeless Youth The Unaccompanied Homeless Youth Act was passed in both houses of the state legislature and was signed by former Governor Deval Patrick. The bill establishes a special commission to tackle barriers for runaways under 18 and homeless young adults.

LOSERS:

Boston According to a U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development report, Boston has the highest homeless population of 25 cities polled. Should Boston host the Olympics? Remember Atlanta.

Mayor Marty Walsh Even though the mayor quickly opened the shelter at 112 Southampton St. for the Long Island shelter refugees, some homeless advocates have criticized Walsh for not taking quicker action to find a viable solution for Long Island’s displaced during the life-or-death winter months.

Long Island Crisis According to the Boston Homeless Solidarity Committee, at least eight HIV-positive homeless people who were forced out of Long Island’s Safe Harbor facility have relapsed and are on the streets. Good news? Boston Religious Leaders for Long Island Refugees is opening a warm day center from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday-Friday at Old South Church.

Anti-Begging Law The U.S. Supreme Court is reviewing a law in Worcester that bans “aggressive begging,” defined as various forms of street solicitation within 20 feet of a place where people are waiting in line.