2014 CCJ Notes - Part I
(January to June 2014)

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2014 SUMMER/FALL EVENTS -- Magazine Beach Park

Magazine Beach Park is located on the Charles River at the foot of Magazine St., Cambridge, MA.

Plenty for all...this summer & fall

Fri, June 20
Family Summer Kick-off
June 20, 5-8pm | Live music: Ken Field’s Revolutionary Snake Ensemble. Children’s games by Knucklebones. Rising Tides & Marking the Shoreline art installations. Bring a picnic. FREE. Food trucks.
June 28 - Aug 24
Swimming at DCR Pool
June 28-August 24, 11am-7pm | Swimming & swimming classes, too. FREE.
Sun, June 29
Benefit Party at RBC
June 29, 7-9pm | Ticketed event. Benefit party at Riverside Boat Club. Celebrate the strides we’ve made and changes coming soon. Live music, drinks, hors d’oeuvres. $35/pp.
Fri, July 25, Aug 22
Music in the Park
July 25, 6-8pm | Boston Percussion Group
August 22, 6-8pm | Arneis Quartet
Bring a picnic. FREE. Food trucks.
Sat, July & August
Morning Yoga
Saturdays | 9-10am - July 12, 19, & 26 and August 2, 9 & 16. Led by Carol Faulkner and Monica Batkis-O’Donnell. FREE.
Tues, July 22
Dance Performance
10-11am. FREE. Mariale Dance Fusion.
Rain location: Morse School. Sponsored by Cambridge Arts.
Sun, Aug 31
Bread & Puppet Theater
August 31, 3-4pm. Vermont’s famous rabble-rousers perform their outdoor “Circus.” FREE. Rain location TBA. Sponsored in part by Cambridge Arts.
Sat & Sun, Oct 18-19
Head of Charles Regatta
8am-5pm | Fabulous vantage point for viewing and cheering world-class rowers in this iconic race.
Bring a picnic. FREE.
November
Cambridge Arts Exhibit
Magazine Beach Exhibit | Views of a Changing Public Resource. Cambridge Arts - Gallery 344, 344 Broadway. FREE.

For news & event updates: www.magazinebeach.org -- In case of rain, check event updates on our website.

Thanks to the City of Cambridge, DCR and all of you, the 1818 Powder Magazine structure will get a face-lift in 2014.
Next steps: to update and complete the landscape plans for the rest of the park. Magazine Beach calls for a new playground, water feature for children, benches and a great lawn to replace sunken pavement.

Ways you can you help:
~ Donate. Support Magazine Beach with your tax-deductible contribution. The CNA is a 501c3 tax-exempt organization. Make checks payable to: Cambridgeport Neighborhood Association, Inc., Note: for Magazine Beach Revitalization. Please send your donation to: Magazine Beach Committee, CNA, c/o Olivia Fiske, 131 Magazine St., Cambridge, MA 02139.

~ Volunteer your time or talent! We can use your help. Contact Cathie Zusy at cathzusy@gmail.com/617-868-0489. We’re looking for help with social media, photography, publicity, editing, assisting with our events, and more.


Presentation at City Council June 23, 2014 Roundtable meeting on City’s Climate Mitigation and Preparedness Planning

City website on Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment

Interactive Hurricane Inundation Maps (Mass. Executive Office of Public Safety and Security)


Ribbon-cutting
The Cambridge Chamber of Commerce recently posted this photo from a ribbon-cutting event supposedly in the 1970s,
though it could be later. Can you identify the people in the picture? That fellow on the right is lookin' pretty sharp!
Bonus points if you can name the location.


Storefronts-For-All in Cambridge
The City of Cambridge announces grant funding to remove architectural barriers.

LogoJune 18, 2014 – Today a celebration and groundbreaking occurred with the first project to take advantage of increased grant funding for removal of architectural barriers at the Boston Bed Company on 625 Cambridge Street. This East Cambridge retailer hosted the event to showcase the services available to independent businesses and property owners. Mayor David P. Maher and City Manager Richard C. Rossi were on hand to explain the increased reimbursement available to small businesses for the purpose of making their location more accessible. Businesses can now receive an unprecedented 90% reimbursement, up to $20,000, in addition to the existing matching grant for façade improvements. The City believes this higher level of funding will spur more property owners and businesses to make enhancements that were previously financially out of reach.

Since 2003, the City of Cambridge has encouraged commercial property owners to improve the visual appearance and accessibility of retail storefronts with a matching grant that has spurred investment to create a pedestrian-friendly environment. The City of Cambridge recognizes that a greater effort is needed to remove architectural barriers so Cambridge retailers can serve the growing population whose enjoyment of street-level retail businesses is hindered by architectural barriers, such as steps, heavy doors, etc.

Additionally, research by City staff have noted that people with disabilities and those baby boomers who may also have difficulty with architectural barriers have a major economic impact in the U.S.:

“Cambridge is dedicated to making local businesses successful in our neighborhoods and this program is just another demonstration of how our city provides opportunities for businesses here to prosper,” said Mayor David P. Maher. “We are very proud of the work that we are doing to improve our storefronts and to offer the support that many need to make their small businesses accessible and attractive.”

“The Storefronts-For-All Program is a prime example of the City’s commitment to creating public-private partnerships to assist local businesses,” said Richard C. Rossi, City Manager. “This program will expand not only the customer base for local businesses, but also shopping and dining out opportunities for persons with disabilities. This is a win-win program for Cambridge.”

Storefronts for All“The storefront accessibility program accelerates our efforts to improve access to Cambridge businesses. As the baby boomer population gets older, the demand for accessible retail stores and service establishments will continue to increase, and this program allows us to address that demand,” said Michael Muehe, Executive Director of the Cambridge Commission for Persons with Disabilities.

The bricked up front and small windows of this East Cambridge building felt like a fortress. From the time we signed the lease, we've talked about enlarging the windows to let people see into our showroom. This partnership with the city lets us open up the whole front of the store and reach out to the street and our neighbors and makes us more inviting. We are pleased that by offering improved access to the store we can better serve the needs of all our customers in Cambridge and the surrounding communities.
~ Andrew Rosenblatt, Chief of Sleep, Boston Bed Company

The Storefront Improvement Program provides technical and financial assistance to property owners or tenants seeking to renovate or restore commercial building exterior facades. The Program removes architectural barriers at the storefront entrance, improves the physical appearance of independent businesses and enhances the commercial districts of Cambridge. This program provides:


Cambridge Human Rights Commission Vacancy

City Manager Richard C. Rossi is seeking persons interested in serving on the Cambridge Human Rights Commission (CHRC). Made up of 11 members who serve three-year terms, the CHRC meets on the first Thursday of every month at 6pm. The Commission seeks Cambridge residents representing the diversity of Cambridge.

Commissioners are expected to work with other members of the Commission and staff to fulfill the goals and objectives of the Cambridge Human Rights Commission Ordinance (CMC Chapter 2.76). Commissioners are expected to attend monthly meetings, participate in subcommittees on outreach and public education, and work with Commission staff on the investigation, mediation and resolution of complaints filed with the Commission which allege discrimination in housing, public accommodation, employment or education based upon race, color, sex, age, religious creed, disability, national origin or ancestry, sexual orientation, gender, marital status, family status, military status or source of income.

For more information, contact Nancy Schlacter, Cambridge Human Rights Commission, at 617-349-4396 or nschlacter@cambridgema.gov. Letters of interest, including resume and/or applicable experience, can be sent via mail, fax or e-mail by Friday, July 18, 2014 to:

Richard C. Rossi, City Manager
City of Cambridge
795 Massachusetts Avenue
Cambridge, MA 02139
Fax 617-349-4307
E-mail: citymanager@cambridgema.gov


Cambridge Uber Alles

TaxiJune 16 - It's fun watching from the sidelines as Uber, an estimated $18 billion company, brings out the troops at License Commission hearings in support of its ability to operate an iPhone-operated livery service for urban professionals with company credit cards and fistfuls of disposable income. Reading or listening to the testimony, you would swear that they were the transportation equivalent of Mother Teresa feeding the poor. The local taxicab cartels in Cambridge and Boston are no better. They are effectively city-endorsed gangsters who have paid exorbitant prices for taxicab medallions in order to secure the right to overcharge passengers and protest any measure that might result in consumer savings. Perhaps the most entertaining aspect to the conflict is that legions of union-supporting, left-winging, capitalism-protesting, Cambridge Occupying hipsters are essentially arguing for free enterprise with minimal regulation. Oh, the horror! Here's what Cambridge Mayor David Maher had to say about the conflict:

"Years of careful investment, smart urban planning and targeted economic development in Cambridge have allowed for a transit-centered culture to emerge for people who not only live here, but come here to work every day. Cambridge has been incredibly successful in reducing automobile usage, strengthening our bicycle and pedestrian options, and providing an environment where innovative transit solutions can thrive," said Cambridge Mayor David Maher. "We are the worldwide leader in innovation and we have no intention to back away from the progress we have made. I have been assured that the License Commission intends to have a fair hearing on the proposed transportation services regulations. I trust that they will have an open, transparent process and that tonight's meeting is the first in a series of dialogues with the public and with affected businesses."

I am a big fan of David Maher and we all know that he is perhaps the most capable mediator in the city. It is worth emphasizing, however, that this is a battle waged along lines that are irrelevant for most of the people who live in Cambridge. We walk, we bike, we take buses and trains, and some of us may even occasionally drive without apologizing for our contribution to the destruction of the planet. How many Cantabrigians actually travel in taxis and limousines? Then again, perhaps I'm behind the times and failed to notice that many new residents prefer to be carried in chariots to their destinations at exorbitant cost as they send text messages and robotically play with their apps on their precious iPhones and other devices.

I'll take the bus, thank you. - RW

Comments?


Hello Recycling & Composting Neighbors! - June-July 2014

recycling symbol

Household Hazardous Waste Day 6/7 (and Aug 23 and Oct 4)
Fruit & Veggie Tips & 6/23 Workshop
Digging Into Your Plastic Questions
Help Spread the Word about the 4R’s
Repair Café in September Seeks Volunteers
Know Where to Donate Clothes?

Household Hazardous Waste Day - June 7 (and Aug 23 and Oct 4)

New Location: Sat, June 7, 9am-1pm at the Volpe Transportation Building Parking Lot, at 55 Broadway. Access from Third St at Munroe St. Cambridge residents only, bring proof of residency. We accept auto fluids, batteries (non alkaline), car tires, glues, medications, mercury items, paint products, solvents, and propane tanks (20 lbs or less). If the product label includes the words POISON, DANGER, WARNING, or CAUTION, bring to HHW day. Click here for alternative options, and what you can bring to the Recycling Center during open hours. Property Managers: if you’re bringing more than 25 pounds or 25 gallons from a Cambridge residential building or if you have no proof of residency, please email recycle@cambridgema.gov in advance.

All HHW Days are on a Saturday from 9am-1pm, note the different locations:

  • June 7 at the Volpe Transportation Building Parking Lot (55 Broadway)
  • August 23 at the Parking Lot on Field St at Fern St by Danehy Park
  • October 4 at the Volpe Transportation Building Parking Lot (55 Broadway)

Fruit & Veggie Tips & 6/23 Workshop

Make your fruits and veggies last longer to reduce waste and save money!

Store Inside the fridge: apples, berries, cherries, grapes, kiwi, lemons, oranges, almost all vegetables & herbs. After ripening at room temperature: apricots, nectarines, peaches, pears, plums, and tomatoes. Outside the fridge: Store in a cool place: bananas, mangos, papayas and pineapples. Store in a cool, dark place: potatoes & onions. Basil & winter squashes: store at room temperature – once cut, store squashes in fridge.

If you like your fruit at room temperature, take what you’ll eat for the day out of the fridge in the morning. Many fruits give off gases that hasten the spoilage of other produce. Store bananas, apples, and tomatoes by themselves and store fruits and vegetables in different bins. Check out storage bags and containers designed to help extend the life of your produce. To prevent mold, wash berries just before eating. For some really great videos on reducing food waste from our friends in Seattle, click here.

6/23 Free Workshop: Learn to compost and reduce food waste. June 23, at 6:15pm at DPW, 147 Hampshire St. Please RSVP.

Digging Into Your Plastic Questions

In general, all stiff plastics are accepted for curbside recycling. Empty and rinse containers to remove food residue, but they don’t need to be squeaky clean. The recycling sorting process is highly mechanized using optical sorting technology and air jets strategically placed along fast moving conveyor belts to sort different plastics. Plastic bags are not accepted curbside as they jam the equipment causing costly delays. Leave caps and lids on, so they are captured during sorting. Metal lids on jars pop off in the glass breaker and magnets grab them. After sorting, 2000 pound bales of plastics are sold to processors start their next life as a new product. Bales must meet strict limits on contaminants. Secondary processors then shred, wash, dry, pelletize and resell the plastic to manufacturers. Recycled plastic is used in new products such as fleecewear, plastic lumber, carpet, and new plastic containers.

Plastics NOT accepted curbside include plastic bags, Styrofoam, electronics and brittle plastics that crack such as CD cases. #1-#7 numbers on many containers indicate the type of plastic resin, a coding system developed almost 30 years ago for manufacturers. The most common, and easily recycled plastic household containers are #1 and #2, making up 75% of all plastics in curbside recycling. #6 is foam polystyrene and not accepted simply because it’s bulky and lightweight making it uneconomic to collect, market, and transport. Plus the sorting machines shred it, creating a mess. #7 is a miscellaneous category, some are bioplastics made from plants and not petroleum and for now, should NOT be recycled. This is a new technology and most recyclers consider it a contaminant and worry it could harm the economics of recycling conventional plastics. Know that stiff plastics with no number such as buckets, broken laundry baskets and toys are accepted curbside. Items smaller than a pill bottle or plastic utensils tend to fall off the conveyor, but sometimes they do get captured.

Help Spread the Word about the 4R’s

Join the fun and volunteer at a community event and talk to fellow residents about reducing waste by recycling, composting and reuse! Recruit residents to receive this newsletter. We’d love to hit 10,000 on our email list this summer! You can enjoy the atmosphere, educate folks and get a free t-shirt. Email recycle@cambridgema.gov if you can help for 2-3 hours at:

  • 6/14 (rain date 6/21): Hoyt Field, Hoops ‘N’ Health (10am-8pm)
  • 6/15: Lowell Street Park, Annual Family Day (10am-5pm)
  • 6/22: Day of Portugal Parade & Sidewalk Fair, St. Anthony’s Church Yard (1pm-3pm)
  • 6/27: City Dance Party, Mass. Ave. by City Hall (7-11pm)
Area 4: 6/30-8/13, Mon & Wed, 10am-Noon, Green Rose Heritage Park on Harvard St. near Izzys
Area 4: 7/8-8/7, Tue & Thu 10am-Noon, Sennott Park on Broadway at Norfolk
East Cambridge: 7/7-8/13, Mon, Wed & Fri, 10am-Noon, Ahern Park behind Kennedy-Longfellow School
Cambridgeport: 7/8-8/8, Tue-Fri, 10am-Noon, Dana Park on Magazine & Corporal McTernan Sts.
Mid-Cambridge: 6/30-8/15, Mon, Wed & Fri only 10am-12 noon, Cooper Park on Hancock at Centre Sts.
Mid-Cambridge: 7/1-8/14, Tue & Thu, 10am-Noon, Maple Ave Park at Maple & Marie Ave.
Mid-Cambridge: 7/10-8/7, Thurs, 6pm-8pm, Community evening dessert potlucks
Riverside: 6/30-8/7, Mon-Thu, 10am-Noon, Riverside Press Park on Memorial Dr. at River St.
North Cambridge: 7/8-8/13, Mon, Tue, Thu & Fri, 10am-Noon, Bergin Park at Pemberton St. & Yerxa Rd.

Repair Café in September Seeks Volunteers

In September, we’re planning a Repair Café, a meeting place all about repairing things, together. At the Repair Café visitors can bring broken items from home and will find tools and materials to help make needed repairs on clothes, electrical appliances, bicycles, toys, furniture, etc. Together with the specialists they start making their repairs and learn during the process. We are looking for repair specialists including electricians, seamstresses, carpenters, Do-It-Yourselfers, and bicycle mechanics to volunteer their time and share their skills for 4 hours on a Saturday in September, either 9/6, 9/13 or 9/27. We're also looking for volunteers to help promote this event and help out that day. If you are a repair specialist or want to help volunteer, please click here. To learn more, click here.

Know Where to Donate Clothes?

Visit our Donate Your Stuff map of donation spots, thrift stores & consignment shops and second hand stores!  Good stuff is reused, damaged stuff is recycled. You can donate clothes that are torn, stained, broken or missing something, to Goodwill, Red Cross, Salvation Army, Got Books/Clothes, and Planet Aid. They take clothing, shoes, belts, purses, hats, linens, stuffed animals, and fabric scraps. Just no dirty rags, nothing wet, nothing soiled, no carpets, no rugs, and no mildewed items. If it’s not wearable, damaged clothing is recycled into wiping rags and everything else is processed back into fibers used to make paper, yarn, insulation, carpet padding, and sound proofing.


  • Missed recycling or trash? Please use iReport or call DPW at 617-349-4800 no later than 12 noon the day after collection to make a request. During winter, clear snow to curb so that collection crews can access your trash barrels and recycling toters and they are not behind snow banks. For more click here. Thank you!
  • Request for toters, brochures, stickers or posters? Use our online form.
  • "Like" the Cambridge DPW on Facebook.
  • During holidays weeks, trash, recycling and yard waste collection is delayed one day. Check the 2014 collection schedule online for full details.

Take the 50% recycling pledge today at www.cambridgema.gov/recycle and get a free sticker!
Recycle More. Trash Less.


June 9 - This week Cambridge received the Congress of New Urbanism Charter Award, regarded as the preeminent global award for excellence in urban design.


Cambridge Conversations - Message from the Cambridge Community Development Department (update)

These Conversations are the precursor to Cambridge’s city-wide master plan process. Before the community launches into a multi-year master plan, we need a moment to talk, exchange ideas, and think about the best way to set up a process for the master plan. The initial conversations to be held in June 2014 are open ended discussions to hear concerns, thoughts, and ideas about the master plan and master plan process. The City has hired Kathryn Madden of the Madden Planning Group to help facilitate the Cambridge Conversations. Kathryn has extensive experience with both master planning and community engagement.

Click here for the current schedule of meetings. Find a location and time that works for you. If you can't make it to any of these meetings in June, don't worry. Send an email to CambridgeConversations@cambridgema.gov and we'd be happy to schedule a time to come to your neighborhood group or other meeting later this summer or fall.

There are many ways to join the conversation!

Attend a community meeting: Three community meetings are scheduled to allow people to select a time and location that is most convenient. Each meeting will follow the same format. They are designed for listening and sharing ideas together as a group. There will be an informal open house; a brief introduction to our current conversations and how these relate to the future master plan; an interactive work session to allow people to share their ideas in casual conversation; and a wrap-up to talk about next steps.
Or
Stop by at a Drop-In Session: Over 17 drop-in sessions are available at different times and locations across the city. Each drop-in session has the same format. These are planned to make access more convenient for those who prefer to drop by briefly for informal conversations that may last only a few minutes or casual discussions that may engage others who happen to be visiting the table at the same time.
Or
Send an email with thoughts and ideas to CambridgeConversations@cambridgema.gov
Or
Comment on the CoUrbanize web page and Survey (coming soon) where you can also offer ideas. Meanwhile, look for our online updates on the CDD website.

If you cannot attend a meeting this month or cannot comment on line, there will be many more opportunities to participate over the next two years. Please help get the word out and encourage others to participate. If you’d like us to come to a meeting of your neighborhood or other group for a smaller discussion, please send us an email. We’d be happy to attend. Have questions or need more information? Contact CambridgeConversations@cambridgema.gov or 617-349-4640.

Three community meetings. Join us at a location and time that works for you.

Additional Drop-In Sessions in June

We are also scheduled to attend neighborhood meetings in Mid-Cambridge (June), Agassiz-Baldwin (September).

We will also be available at several community events and public meetings over the summer so look for the Community Conversations table at

Community Development Department, 344 Broadway, Cambridge, MA 02139
tel.: 617-349-4606, fax: 617-349-4669; http://www.cambridgema.gov/CDD.aspx


Results of Democratic State Convention in Worcester (June 14)

Governor
Candidate % Delegate Vote Notes
Steve Grossman 35.2% (1547 votes)  
Martha Coakley 23.3% (1024 votes)  
Donald Berwick 22.1% (972 votes)  
Juliette Kayyem 12.1% (535 votes) did not qualify for primary ballot
Joe Avellone 7.0% (311 votes) did not qualify for primary ballot
Lieutenant Governor
Candidate % Delegate Vote Notes
Steve Kerrigan 37.6%  
Mike Lake 35.4%  
Leland Cheung 16.2%  
James DeRosa 10.6% did not qualify for primary ballot
Attorney General
Candidate % Delegate Vote Notes
Warren Tolman 51.8%  
Maura Healey 48.1%  
Treasurer
Candidate % Delegate Vote Notes
Deb Goldberg 38.9%  
Tom Conroy 33.9%  
Barry Finegold 27.1%  

Community Learning Center Graduation & Awards Ceremony

Adult EducationThe Cambridge Community Learning Center (CLC) held its 29th annual Graduation and Awards ceremony at the Cambridge Main Library on June 19. The Honorable Mayor David P. Maher gave the opening remarks and praised the CLC student body for being an exceptional example of diversity at its best and at work in the City of Cambridge. He congratulated the honorees for their perseverance and commitment to their educational pursuits. This year, 87 graduates from the English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL), Adult Secondary Education (ASE), Bridge to College Transition and Workplace Education (CHWEP) programs received certificates of completion.

Four students representing the graduating classes - Marta Tsegay (ESOL), Josette Pierrette (ASE), Mirna Moran-Cabrera (BRIDGE) and Steve Montaque (CHWEP) - entertained and inspired the audience with their impassioned speeches during the ceremony.

Additionally, 20 students were honored for attaining their citizenship this year. CLC Volunteer of the Year, Chuck Brandstater, was also recognized for his generous contribution of time, patience and effort to help many CLC students. The Friends of the Community Learning Center presented 19 scholarships to students pursuing higher education at our local colleges and universities.

The Cambridge Community Learning Center provides educational services to over 1,000 adults annually. Free classes are offered year round, morning, afternoon and evening. For more information, please contact the Community Learning Center at 617-349-6363.

Chuck Brandstater
CLC Volunteer of the Year Chuck Brandstater
is honored for his service and dedication.
Mirna Moran-Cabrera
Bridge to College Transition Program (BRIDGE)
graduate speaker Mirna Moran-Cabrera gives an
inspirational address to her fellow classmates.

City of Cambridge 2014 Taxi Driver of the Year

The City of Cambridge presented the 2014 Taxi Driver of the Year Award to Dennis Howe. Mr. Howe has driven a taxi in Cambridge since the 1970’s without any complaints whatsoever. He was nominated by two of his peers for his excellent service, kindness to his passengers and extensive knowledge of the city. In addition to receiving a plaque from the City’s License Commission, Howe also received a few gift certificates from local restaurants and businesses.

2014 Taxi Driver of the Year
Cambridge Police Deputy Superintendent Jack Albert, Richard Carbone, President of the Board of Directors of Cambridge Taxi School,
Cambridge License Commission Chair Andrea Jackson, Dennis Howe, Cambridge’s 2014 Taxi Driver of the Year, Elizabeth Y. Lint, Executive
Director of Cambridge License Commission, and Hackney Officer Benny Szeto and Lt. Rick Riley. Photo By Bob Coe.


City Dance Party Friday, June 27, 7–11pm
Mass Ave. will be Closed to Traffic but Open for Dancing!

On Friday, June 27, join thousands of Cambridge residents and visitors who will gather on Mass. Ave. in front of Cambridge City Hall (795 Massachusetts Ave.) for the City’s annual Dance Party. The portion of Mass. Ave., between Inman and Bigelow streets at the heart of Central Square, will be closed to traffic from 7-11pm. Event is free and open to the public. MBTA: Red Line to Central Square.

The annual dance extravaganza with DJ spun music is a special opportunity for the entire Cambridge community to celebrate summer. After dark, colorful lights will be launched, adding to the magic of the evening.

Originally conceived in 1996 as part of the 150th anniversary celebration of Cambridge, the Dance Party returns each year attracting young and old to join in the festivities!

PLEASE NOTE: MBTA #1 Bus Line will terminate in Central Square at 6 p.m. and resume full service at 11:30 p.m. (take the Red Line subway to travel between Central & Harvard Squares). Closest subway stop to the Dance Party is Central Square, then two blocks to City Hall.

For more information, contact Maryellen Carvello at 617-349-4301.


Superintendent Jeff Young's 2011-15 contract requires School Committee renewal before July 6, 2014

Superintendent Jeff Young[contributed by Anita D. McClellan and posted on the CPSParents listserv]

Cambridge public school families may be surprised to learn that many school districts open up their Superintendents' annual evaluation on leadership performance to rating and comments from district parents, teachers, K-12 students, and residents.

In Burlington, MA, District Superintendent Eric Conti's Blog posts an evaluation survey for 30 days every May so district parents, teachers, K-12 students, and residents can contribute their 2¢ to the School Committee's evaluation: https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/2014ContiEvaluation.

Dr. Conti also posts the passwords required for anyone to access past years' Burlington Supt. evaluations and comments: http://ericconti.wordpress.com.

Isn't it time for Cambridge Public School District – and our 2014 & 2015 School Committee – to emulate Burlington District and to inaugurate PDQ for 2014 an open annual SC evaluation of our Superintendent that takes into account leadership ratings and comments from District parents, teachers, students, and residents?

It would be very quick for 2014 Supt. evaluation to adapt the Burlington Supt. online evaluation survey to CPSD's needs https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/2014ContiEvaluation so results from Cambridge parents, teachers, students, residents can be factored into the SC's early July vote on whether or not to renew Dr. Young's contract through 2018.

After the current contract renewal deadline, the SC can develop its own Supt. online evaluation for the Cambridge public to use in 2015 and thereafter.

Anita McClellan, VL

P.S. Burlington MA District offers a series of District blogs to keep community informed on many educational fronts. Wonderful to have such good communications! Find them on http://ericconti.wordpress.com/ in the righthand column on homepage.

Go here for the Burlington Asst. Supt. of Learning's blog: http://www.patrickmlarkin.com/

The Burlington District Spec Ed Dept. also surveys public on its performance: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1l_JgxApXnrmg3QqO_zNW0qDndTQ4t7BmnAEhaZDsxOg/viewform

FYI: Jeff Young has served under School Committee as Superintendent since July 6, 2009. He reports directly to the School Committee. Contract is here: http://rwinters.com/school/JeffYoungContract2011-15.htm

Supt. Duties and Responsibilities.

A. The Superintendent shall diligently, faithfully, professionally and competently perform the duties and responsibilities of the Superintendent of Schools; shall serve as the Chief Executive Officer of the School District, as provided in M.G.L. c. 71, §59 and all other applicable laws and regulations pertaining to public education in Massachusetts; and shall be responsible to direct, organize and manage the school system, in conformity with the requirements of M.G.L. c. 71 and all other applicable federal and state statutes and regulations pertaining to public education, and in conformity with the rules and policy determinations of the Committee. The Superintendent also shall fulfill all of the terms and conditions of this Agreement. The Superintendent shall be the Chief Education Officer of the District.

B. Except as otherwise required by the Superintendent's duties, the Superintendent shall attend all Committee meetings and shall provide administrative recommendations on each item of business involving the administration of the Public Schools or education matters.

C. The Superintendent recognizes that the proper performance of his duties and responsibilities will require him to work longer than the school day and that his duties and responsibilities are not confined to prescribed hours.

D. The relationship between the Committee and the Superintendent shall be based on a deep commitment to working cooperatively for the benefit of the children and the general community served by the Cambridge Public Schools, and it shall reflect a clear understanding that the Committee is the establishing agent of all school system policy and that the Superintendent has the responsibility to administer said policy in a sound, fair and ethical manner.

E. The Superintendent shall have authority, subject to law and any legally binding contracts of the School District, to organize, reorganize and arrange the administrative and supervisory staff in such a way as, in his best judgment, best serves the School District, subject to approval by the Committee.

F. In its discretion, the Committee will refer to the Superintendent any criticisms, complaints and situations that are brought to its attention and which the Committee deems important enough to warrant the Superintendent's attention. The Superintendent shall review and make recommendations on any matters referred to him by the Committee.

Comments?

Middlesex Superior Court jury finds in favor of the City of Cambridge

May 15, 2014 — A Middlesex Superior Court jury found in favor of the City of Cambridge today on three out of four claims brought by Plaintiff Gloria Law, a former civilian employee in the Cambridge Police Department. The jury found that: the Plaintiff was not subjected to harassment or other conduct based upon her national origin and did not prove her claims related to a hostile work environment; the City did not take any adverse employment action against the Plaintiff based upon her national origin; and the City did not retaliate against the Plaintiff for making complaints related to discrimination. While the jury found that an adverse employment action was taken against the Plaintiff, the jury found that it was not based upon her national origin. An employer may take adverse employment actions if there is valid reason to do so. As such, the Plaintiff’s claims for discrimination and retaliation failed.

Although I am pleased that the jury did not find discriminatory actions by City staff,” said City Manager Richard C. Rossi, “I am committed to furthering our work to ensure that personnel actions are resolved in a fair and equitable manner.”

Respect, integrity, professionalism and teamwork are core values within the Cambridge Police Department,” said Cambridge Police Commissioner Robert C. Haas. “While we’re pleased to see that the jury has found in favor of the City in this case, we take claims like this very seriously and will continue to work to ensure that our core values are aligned throughout the workplace and within the community.”

During my first year as City Manager, I have clearly and consistently articulated to department heads and employees my commitment to maintaining a respectful and welcoming workplace,” said Rossi.

On the Plaintiff’s constructive discharge claim, the jury was unable to reach a verdict. However, based upon the fact that the jury did not find any retaliatory or discriminatory conduct, and did not find a hostile work environment, there does not appear to be any basis to support a finding of constructive discharge. The City is considering its legal options to conclusively resolve the constructive discharge claim as soon as possible. Assistant City Solicitor Elizabeth A. Lashway represented the City at trial.

Note: The content of this article is taken from a press release from the City of Cambridge.


May 15 - Budget Hearing Notes

10:30am - I just tuned in to the FY2015 Budget Hearing of the Cambridge Health Alliance. It's disturbing to hear Cambridge city councillors attempting to micromanage the decisions of health care professionals. It's one thing to question the amount of funds being directed to the Cambridge Public Health Department, but it's ridiculous that city councillors are pretending to have expertise in health care. Vice Mayor Benzan provided a refreshing counterbalance by staying focused on what the budget actually covered and acknowledging the financial challenges faced by the Cambridge Health Alliance.

3:37pm - Today's Budget hearing is now in its 7th hour and continuing - quite a contrast from last week's quickie. Perhaps the single most disturbing suggestion made by at least two councillors was that the City directly fund "neighborhood groups" to support their activities. If you want to open up a very large can of worms, this may well be that can. None of these groups are especially representative or democratic, and most of them are defined by what they oppose and not by what they construct or accomplish. Many of us can point to some egregious examples where public funds were misused by such groups, and I would be personally horrified to see public money doled out to support the agendas of private groups not necessarily acting in the public interest. If the activities of a citizens group require some level of financial support, they really should be able to raise that money on their own. That can of worms need not be opened. - RW


FY2015 Budget Notes - and a comment on political patronage

May 8 - The first round of the City Council's FY2015 Budget hearings took barely more than 3 hours today. After a brief (and accurate) statement by Councillor Craig Kelley opposing a proposal to convert the personal assistants for individual councillors into full-time (patronage) jobs, the only departments to have their budgets pulled for further discussion were: (1) Law Department, (2) Information Technology, (3) Public Celebrations, (4) Traffic, Parking & Transportation, (5) Inspectional Services, and (6) License Commission. Most of the inquiries from councillors were brief, and much of the commentary was more like expressions of thanks for how well these departments operate.

The FY2015 Budget Book lists 2 full-time staff positions for the City Council, but the City Council budget includes $1,386,180 to cover the salaries of the city councillors and their aides. These personal aide jobs first appeared in 2006 as part-time positions (without benefits) within the Mayor's Office budget, but were later shifted to the City Council budget. From the start, almost all of these the jobs were given to individuals connected to the political campaigns of the councillors. Only Councillor Kelley has resisted the patronage urge and operates without a personal aide.

This topic was the first matter discussed at the Government Operations Committee meeting on Tues, May 6. The recommendation of the committee was never really in doubt - of course they want to grant themselves additional political privilege (at taxpayer expense). The City Council apparently is choosing to ignore the fact that the Plan E Charter explicitly says that the City Council can hire exactly 3 positions: City Manager, City Clerk, and City Auditor. Some will argue that it is not the councillors who are appointing the aides, but the councillors choose them, and it's inconceivable that City staff would ever deny any councillor their personal choice. There are no public postings for these positions, and none of them are subject to the usual range of requirements of other City employees.

It's always entertaining (and equally aggravating) to hear councillors testify about how much work they do and how they absolutely need more and more staff. So many birthday resolutions, so little time. By the way, almost all of the current group of councillors have other jobs, so most are drawing two salaries. I suppose this explains why they feel the need for additional staff, but an equally good argument can be made for having their salaries cut in half in order to cover the cost of people to write all those birthday resolutions (which would bring them more in line with comparable positions in other cities and towns in the area).

Political privilege is like entropy. It always increases. - Robert Winters

Comments?


Cambridge River Festival Comes to Central Square - Sat, June 7 from noon to 6:00pm

"Hey, where's the River?"
Cambridge Arts Council takes the river to Mass. Ave. for the 35th Annual Cambridge River Festival.

The Cambridge River Festival has occurred on the banks of the Charles River since its inception in 1977. This year, due to overlapping major construction projects and large scale events taking place on this historical footprint, Cambridge Arts has decided to celebrate our 35th Anniversary of the River Festival in the heart of the Central Square Cultural District. For more information please visit our Press Release.

Advisory! MBTA Detour Routes for Saturday, June 7, 2014PDF Document Here

The Cambridge River Festival is an annual celebration of the arts, attracting 200,000 per year. This free event will feature jazz, folk, roots and world music performances, dance, art demonstrations, family art-making activities and over 150 specialty food purveyors and craftfolks and artisans!

Schedule and Directions

Media Overview


Hello Recycling & Composting Neighbors! - May-June 2014

recycling symbol

Recycling Tour 5/22
Unwanted Furniture? Donate it!
Household Hazardous Waste Day 6/7
Have a Zero Waste Party
Compost News Around the City…
Volunteer & Help Spread the Word
Green News from the Schools
Globe Direct Responds to Concerns Raised

Recycling Tour 5/22

Cambridge residents and City employees are invited to tour the Casella recycling facility in Charlestown on Thursday, May 22 (morning). No children under 16. Tours last about 2 hours. We walk on narrow catwalks and stairs, close to heavy equipment and at a steady pace with a group. We meet at DPW and carpool. Let us know if you can drive and how many people you can take. Email recycle@cambridgema.gov to sign up and we’ll send more info.

Unwanted Furniture? Donate it!

Moving June 1st and can’t take it all? Plan ahead and arrange a free pick up. Items must be clean and usable. Someone’s gonna love your stuff. Email pictures of your good-condition furniture to donations@mahomeless.org today to schedule a pickup for the end of May. The Coalition for the Homeless has set special pickup days in Cambridge at the end of May! They take kitchen tables & chairs, couches & sofa chairs, ottomans, hutches, end tables, coffee tables, bed frames, dressers, bookshelves, cabinets, rugs, lamps, dishes, pots & pans, and blankets & linens. Your gently-used donations help low-income and formerly homeless families furnish their apartments at no cost to them. Year-round, you can arrange a free pickup just email pictures of your good-condition furniture in advance to donations@mahomeless.org. For more info and other pickup and drop-off options, visit CambridgeMA.Gov/Furniture.

Household Hazardous Waste Day - June 7

New Location: June 7, 9am-1pm at the Volpe Transportation Building Parking Lot, at 55 Broadway. Bring proof of Cambridge residency. We accept auto fluids, batteries (non alkaline), car tires, glues, medications, mercury items, paint products, solvents, and propane tanks (20 lbs or less). If the product label includes the words POISON, DANGER, WARNING, or CAUTION, bring to HHW day. Click here for alternative options, and what you can bring to the Recycling Center during open hours.

All HHW Days are on a Saturday from 9am-1pm, note the different locations:

  • June 7 at the Volpe Transportation Building Parking Lot (55 Broadway)
  • August 23 at the Parking Lot on Field St at Fern St by Danehy Park
  • October 4 at the Volpe Transportation Building Parking Lot (55 Broadway)

Have a Zero Waste Party

Planning a zero waste event at your house? The key is careful planning and education. Serve finger foods to avoid the need for tableware. Everything used must be reusable, recyclable or compostable. Tell guests what to recycle and compost, and place signs throughout your space. Use reusables whenever possible or use certified compostable tableware. Remember, no plastic, metal or glass in your compost. Collect material in compostable bags, paper bags, or cardboard boxes. Click here to find out about where Cambridge residents can drop off food scraps. If you have a large quantity, please bring to the Recycling Center during open hours at email us 1-2 days before at recycle@cambridgema.gov.

Compost News Around the City…

  • North Cambridge residents: Spread the word and continue to bring food scraps to the drop-off site at the St. Peters Field Parking Lot off of Sherman St. This pilot program has been extended through August 30, 2014 in partnership with Human Services. Please thank them, and thank you for keeping the area clean! Always place food scraps in the correct bins, never on the ground and keep the lids securely closed. For other food scraps drop-off locations including the Recycling Center, Cambridge Community Center, and Whole Foods on Prospect St, click here.
  • The City’s one year pilot program for curbside compost pickup is off to a great start! For the first 6 weeks, we’ve collected over 19,000 pounds of food scraps.  The average participating household is generating about 6.5 lbs/week and close to 90% of the green bins are set at the curb for weekly collection. Watch a quick video about the pilot program. After the pilot in the spring of 2015 the City will evaluate many areas of the program including participation rates, volume of food scraps collected, costs, and operational considerations. It is our hope that it will be a successful pilot!
  • From Apr-Nov, Cambridge residents can get free compost in small quantities at the Recycling Center during open hours: Tues/Thurs 4pm-7:30pm and Sat 9am–4pm. Bring your own containers. Pemberton Farms at 2225 Mass Ave sells the Soil Saver for $60. Review outdoor composting tips online!
  • Need yard waste labels?
    Just email us, or pick up some at DPW 147 Hampshire Street during office hours.

Volunteer & Help Spread the Word

Join the fun and volunteer at a community event and talk to fellow residents about reducing waste by recycling, composting and reuse! Recruit residents to receive this newsletter. We’d love to hit 10,000 on our email list this summer! You can enjoy the atmosphere, educate folks and get a free t-shirt. Email recycle@cambridgema.gov if you can help for 2-3 hours at:

  • 5/31: Fresh Pond Day, Fresh Pond Reservation (11am-3pm)
  • 6/14 (rain date 6/21): Hoyt Field, Hoops ‘N’ Health (10am-8pm)
  • 6/15: Lowell Street Park, Annual Family Day (10am-5pm)
  • 6/22: Day of Portugal Parade & Sidewalk Fair, St. Anthony’s Church Yard (1pm-3pm)
  • 6/27: City Dance Party, Mass. Ave. by City Hall (7-11pm)

Green News from the Schools

This spring we launched the Go Green Challenge! This is a partnership between the Cambridge Public Schools and the Dept of Public Works. The Go Green Challenge is an opportunity for teachers to show the school community how their classroom helps the environment (recycling, using scrap paper, etc.) by completing a checklist and hanging it proudly outside their classroom to show off their efforts. Thanks to all the teachers, students, faculty and school community for all you do! If you have questions about this program email kvonhoffmann@cpsd.us or mbrott@cambridgema.gov.

Congrats to the King Open School, which is celebrating its 5 year anniversary for lunchroom composting! King Open was the 1st Cambridge Public School to start composting and 8 schools have joined them since: Graham & Parks, Cambridgeport, Peabody/Rindge Ave, Tobin/Vassal Lane, CRLS, Haggerty, and Amigos. The City’s goal is that all public schools compost. This fall we’ll add Kennedy-Longfellow and Putnam Avenue Upper School to the list. Schools not yet composting are Morse, M.L. King, Baldwin, and Fletcher Maynard. The principal and senior custodian must be on-board before composting can begin, learn more.

Globe Direct Responds to Concerns Raised

Due to concerns raised about unwanted deliveries, excessive deliveries and plastic bags, the company has instituted the following changes regarding their weekly advertising circular:

  1. All calls to 781-646-6769 to stop delivery will be immediately honored.
  2. Plastic bags will not be used if the weather is good.
  3. Deliveries will be left on private property, not public sidewalks.
  4. Delivery operators are now instructed to pick up any old deliveries that have not been taken in during their next delivery.
  5. Retrieval services will be used to pick up excess deliveries when there are complaints from the community.
  6. Disciplinary action will be taken against delivery operators of they fail to comply with these rules.

  • Missed recycling or trash? Please use iReport or call DPW at 617-349-4800 no later than 12 noon the day after collection to make a request. During winter, clear snow to curb so that collection crews can access your trash barrels and recycling toters and they are not behind snow banks. For more click here. Thank you!
  • Request for toters, brochures, stickers or posters? Use our online form.
  • "Like" the Cambridge DPW on Facebook.
  • During holidays weeks, trash, recycling and yard waste collection is delayed one day. Check the 2014 collection schedule online for full details.

Take the 50% recycling pledge today at www.cambridgema.gov/recycle and get a free sticker!
Recycle More. Trash Less.

Eastern Cambridge Kendall Square Open Space Planning Study Public Meeting - June 3

The City of Cambridge will hold a public meeting as part of the Eastern Cambridge Kendall Square Open Space Planning Study on Tues, June 3, at 5:30pm, at the Kendall Marriott Hotel (second floor), 50 Broadway, Cambridge.

Come share your thoughts about open space in the area and learn about the upcoming open space planning competition sponsored by the City of Cambridge. The competition is part of the open space planning process and is intended to encourage innovative ideas regarding open space design, the overall public realm, connections, programming and place making.

For more information, please visit: www.cambridgema.gov/kendallopenspace


Cambridge City Manager Seeks Members for New Broadband Task Force

City SealMay 9, 2014 – City Manager Richard C. Rossi is seeking applicants to serve on a new Task Force which will examine broadband service in Cambridge and evaluate our fiber infrastructure. The Task Force will examine options to increase competition, reduce pricing, and improve speed, reliability and customer service for both residents and businesses. Additionally, the Task Force will investigate scenarios for leveraging the City’s current or future fiber assets to expand access to broadband services, such as service to Cambridge Housing Authority (CHA) properties.

The work of the Task Force will help to ensure that Cambridge remains a world-class City in which to live, work, innovate and learn. The final report of the committee will assist the City in planning for the future and setting realistic expectations with the public, as creating alternative solutions can take years to fully implement.

The Task Force will meet on a regular basis and will be charged with:

Residents and interested members of Cambridge’s university, innovation, civic and business communities are encouraged to apply. Prospective members should send a letter via mail, email or fax by Friday, May 30, 2014 briefly describing the applicant’s interest in the committee, relevant background, skills and experience to:

Richard C. Rossi, City Manager
City of Cambridge 795 Massachusetts Avenue
Cambridge, MA 02139
Email: citymanager@cambridgema.gov
Ph: 617-349-4300   Fax: 617-349-4307


Cambridge City Manager Seeks Members for New Citizens Committee on Civic Unity

City Manager Richard C. Rossi is seeking residents and interested members of the Cambridge community (including private sector and municipal employees, business owners, students and others) to become a part of a new Citizen Committee on Civic Unity.

The Citizen Committee on Civic Unity will serve in an advisory role to the City Council and City Manager, will engage the public and will provide opportunities for constructive discussions regarding race, class, religion, gender, disability and sexual orientation, in order to actively promote equity, fairness and unity within the city organizational structure and the broader Cambridge community.

It is anticipated that the Committee will hold regular monthly meetings which may include presentations by guest speakers, city staff and various experts. The Committee’s work is intended to be ongoing, and specific initiatives and goals will be created as this new process moves forward.

Prospective members should send a letter via mail, email or fax by Friday, May 30, 2014 briefly describing the applicant’s interest in committee, relevant background, skills and experience they might bring to the process to:

Richard C. Rossi, City Manager
City of Cambridge
795 Massachusetts Avenue
Cambridge, MA 02139
Email: Citymanager@cambridgema.gov
Ph. 617-349-4300; Fax 617-349-4307


Celebrate Our Reservation and Cambridge Community at Fresh Pond Day - Saturday May 31, 11am-3pm

Water Department logoJoin the Cambridge Water Department in celebrating the land, water, wildlife and people that make Cambridge’s Fresh Pond Reservation in Cambridge a unique and vital oasis at the 7th annual Fresh Pond Day. The festivities, hosted on the Reservation at 250 Fresh Pond Parkway will run from 11am-3pm and are open and free to all. Parking will be very limited at Fresh Pond Reservation; all visitors arriving by car are strongly encouraged to park at the Tobin School, 197 Vassal Lane.

Fresh Pond Day is for all ages. Highlights of the celebration will include: live music, children’s StoryWalk and storytime, face painting, stilt-walking, kids’ sing-along, wildlife and bicycle parades, container gardening, a live owl demonstration, fire truck and Reservation utility vehicles on exhibition, Reservation and water treatment facility tours, and a chance to meet and greet with City departments and community groups. Feel free to bring a picnic. Rain does cancel the event. For schedules, updates on weather, and volunteering, visit the Public Programs page at www.cambridgema.gov/water, or contact Kirsten Lindquist at (617) 349-6489, klindquist@cambridgema.gov.

Fresh Pond Reservation is readily accessible by public transit and bicycle; these “green” transportation options are strongly recommended. Bus routes #72, 75, 74 and 78 all stop within a 10 minute walk of the Reservation. To arrive by subway, take the Red Line to Alewife Station and walk down Alewife Brook Parkway past Fresh Pond Mall, then cross Concord Avenue into the Reservation. Ride a bicycle here by taking a right on Lakeview Avenue off of Brattle Street, crossing Fresh Pond Parkway to reach the bike path on the Reservation’s perimeter.

Fresh Pond Day!


Memorial Day Parade and Observance May 26

The Cambridge Veterans' Organization (CVO) and Cambridge Veterans' Services will hold their annual Memorial Day Parade and Observance on Monday, May 26, 2014.

Memorial Day 2014The Parade will begin with a cannon salute by the MA Bicentennial Battery at 9:30am, on the Cambridge Common and proceed through Harvard Square, up Mount Auburn Street to Coolidge Avenue, and conclude at the Cambridge Cemetery, 76 Coolidge Avenue. Cambridge Mayor David Maher and CVO President Philip Anderson will serve as parade commentators.

Parade participants will include veterans' groups, elected officials, police and fire personnel, color guards, bands, drill teams and youth organizations.

Following the parade, a Memorial Day Observance will be held at the Cambridge Cemetery. (Approximate start time is 11am.) CVO President Philip Anderson will serve as Master of Ceremonies. The CVO Chaplain will give the Invocation and Benediction and Vice Mayor Dennis Benzan will deliver the keynote address.

Mayor David P. Maher will give the greetings of the City and City Councillor Marc McGovern will read the City Council's Memorial Day Resolution. Amigos School 4th graders will lead the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance and a CRLS Drama student will read the Governor's Memorial Day Proclamation.

In addition, a CRLS student vocalist will sing the National Anthem, America the Beautiful and God Bless America. Bagpiper Edward O'Callaghan will Play "Amazing Grace." The CVO Rifle team along with the Massachusetts Bicentennial Battery will render a rifle salute, and Bugler Robinson Pyle will blow TAPS.

Following the Memorial Day Observance, the Women's Auxiliary of the Veterans’ of Foreign Wars accompanied by local elected officials will hold a brief ceremony at the Weeks Bridge in honor of the Cambridge servicemen and women who were lost at sea.

The public is cordially invited to attend all of the Memorial Day events and activities.

Immediately following the day's events, a collation, hosted by the Cambridge Veterans' Organization will be held at the VFW Mt. Auburn Post, #8818, located at 688 Huron Avenue.

There is very limited parking available at the VFW. Collation attendees are encouraged to ride the veterans trolleys that will be located at the cemetery. The trolleys will return you to the Cambridge common or the cemetery after the collation.

For more information, call Cambridge Veterans Services at 617-349-4761.


HISTORICAL COMMISSION ANNOUNCES PRESERVATION AWARD RECIPIENTS

2014 Preservation AwardsThe Cambridge Historical Commission is pleased to announce the recipients of the eighteenth annual Cambridge Preservation Awards. Inaugurated by the Commission in 1997, the program celebrates outstanding historic preservation projects and the commitment of the individuals who worked on those projects, thereby making Cambridge a more attractive and desirable place in which to live and work.

This year’s awards ceremony will take place on Thursday, May 22, from 6:00-8:00pm at Biogen Idec at 225 Binney Street. Biogen Idec has recently completed the construction of a new facility at this location, the design of which incorporated two historic buildings on Fifth and Sixth streets. The public is invited to attend. Due to building security, all visitors will be issued Biogen visitor ID badges. Please RSVP to 617-349-4683 or by e-mail to histcomm@cambridgema.gov so that badges may be produced in advance. Guests who do not RSVP should bring identification and will need to wait while badges are prepared.

Projects to be recognized include residential restorations at 15 Ash Street, 2 Brattle Circle, 24-36 Fulkerson Street, 28 Garfield Street, and 146-148 Magazine Street. Winning institutional projects include The Jarvis apartments at 27 Everett Street and Stone Hall at Quincy House by Harvard College; the restoration of 78-80 Oxford Street by Lesley University; the adaptive re-use of 130 Brookline Street and the restoration of the Metropolitan Storage warehouse at 134 Massachusetts Avenue by MIT Investment Management Company; the sensitive addition of emergency egress and exterior renovation of the Harvard Lampoon building at 44 Bow Street; and the adaptive re-use of the former Police Headquarters at 5 Western Avenue, now the Alice Wolf Center.

The winning projects by Cambridge non-profits are the Blacksmith House at 56 Brattle Street by the Cambridge Center for Adult Education, the Hooper-Lee-Nichols House at 159 Brattle Street by the Cambridge Historical Society, and the Cambridge YWCA at 7 Temple Street.

The Anthony C. Platt Award, which is given each year for a project in a neighborhood conservation district, will recognize the renovation of an Italianate Style double house at 12-14 Avon Place in the Avon Hill Neighborhood Conservation District.

Several participants in the Cambridge Community Development Department’s Façade, Signage, and Lighting Improvement Program will receive Certificates of Merit. The winning projects this year include 26 Brattle Street (Dickson Brothers Hardware), 221-225 Concord Avenue (Local Root-The Kitchen Store, Majestic Yoga Studio, and the Observatory Hill Studio), and 185 Mount Auburn Street (Beyt by 2b design).


Race to Solar launches in Cambridge and Boston
Bringing local non-profits and small businesses attractive solar energy options and energy savings

Mayor David P. Maher of Cambridge and Mayor Martin J. Walsh of Boston this week launched the Race to Solar, a program for local non-profits and small businesses to increase the adoption of solar power installations and energy efficiency measures. Race to Solar is a partnership with Renew Boston, NSTAR, National Grid, and Home Energy Efficiency Team (HEET) to promote energy efficiency upgrades and make solar power more affordable and accessible for non-profits, including houses of worship and schools, and small businesses that own their buildings.

“Providing energy upgrades that are affordable is one of Cambridge’s top priorities,” says Mayor Maher. “In order to combat the effects of global climate change, our City, our local businesses and our non-profits now have the distinct advantage that the Race to Solar program provides. We’re proud to support this initiative and to help our local non-profits to take advantage of the cost-savings, energy-efficiency and green solutions offered by photo-voltaic systems.”

“Solar has been taking off in Boston and I am pleased to work with the City of Cambridge to bring solar to organizations that serve and do business right in our neighborhoods,” said Mayor Walsh. “Boston is a leader in providing its non-profits and businesses the tools to be sustainable and we must continue to ‘greenovate’ our city.”

Through the Race to Solar, organizations will be able to take advantage of a competitively priced option for installing solar power. To participate, non-profits and small businesses must own their buildings, have suitable site conditions for a solar installation, and be in good financial standing. The goal of Race to Solar is to promote and facilitate the installation of solar photovoltaic (PV) energy systems on the buildings of 40 local non-profit organizations, adding approximately 1 megawatt of clean, renewable electric power capacity to Boston and Cambridge. SunBug Solar was selected as the solar installer through a competitive RFP process and won based on their experience, quality of work, and attractive offer.

Participating non-profits and small businesses must engage in an energy evaluation and upgrade through NSTAR and National Grid’s Direct Install program, and help to promote the program to other businesses within their own networks. In this manner the Race to Solar helps not only non-profits, but also local businesses. Small businesses and energy efficiency are both strong drivers of local jobs, making the community more economically and environmentally sustainable.

Race to Solar empowers non-profits to invest in solar energy systems, by first reducing their utility bills through an energy upgrade and helping small businesses to do the same,” Ashka Naik, Executive Director of HEET. "This is a win-win for the non-profit and their community."

The Race to Solar program is designed to help non-profits and their communities achieve energy savings and invest in clean renewable solar energy systems. To learn more about the Race to Solar and speak directly with program providers, please attend one of these upcoming technical workshops:
Wednesday, Apr 30, 10am-12pm, Cambridge City Hall Annex, 344 Broadway, Cambridge
Thursday, May 1, 6-8pm, St. Bartholomew’s Episcopal Church, 239 Harvard St., Cambridge
Thursday, May 15, 6-8pm, Curtis Hall, 20 South St., Jamaica Plain
Tuesday, May 20, 6-8pm, Carpenter’s Center, 750 Dorchester Ave., Dorchester

For more information about the Race to Solar program, call 1-617-HEET-350 or visit www.racetosolar.org.


Affordable Rental and Homeownership Programs Information Session - May 19

The City of Cambridge will be holding a free Walk-In Informational Session on affordable rental and homeownership programs Monday, May 19, from 6-8pm, at the Community Room, Jefferson Park, One Jackson Place, Cambridge.

Housing personnel from the Community Development Department will be available to discuss the city’s affordable rental and homeownership programs. Additional programs will be held at locations throughout Cambridge in the coming months.

For more information, please contact us at 617-349-4622.


Mayor David Maher Announces 10th Anniversary Celebration of Same Sex Marriage
City was the First in the Nation to issue Same Sex Marriage Licenses a Decade Ago

Mayor MaherMayor David P. Maher announced today that a celebration will be held at Cambridge City Hall marking the 10th Anniversary of Same Sex Marriage on Friday, May 16th at 5pm, at 795 Massachusetts Avenue.

A watershed moment in the history of civil rights, the landmark Goodridge ruling designating the constitutional right of same sex marriages in Massachusetts occurred in 2004 and at midnight on May 16th, Cambridge was the first city in the United States to issue marriage licenses for same sex couples.

This year, Mayor Maher, along with the City Administration and the Cambridge GLBT Commission will celebrate this occasion by opening City Hall at 5pm on May 16th where couples may take or renew their vows to mark this historic moment. The event will also include hors d’oeuvres, live music and a speaking program.

Couples who wish to take or renew their vows during this celebration and should contact Mayor Maher’s Office at (617) 349-4321 or mayor@cambridgema.gov for more information.

Mayor Maher Announces that Attorney Mary Bonauto will be Keynote Speaker at Marriage Equality 10th Anniversary Celebration

Mayor David P. Maher announced today that Attorney Mary L. Bonauto, the preeminent civil rights lawyer for gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender communities, will be the keynote speaker at the commemoration of the 10th Anniversary of Same Sex Marriage at Cambridge City Hall.

“Cambridge was the first city in the United States to issue marriage licenses due to the incredible efforts of Mary Bonauto as lead counsel in the Goodridge case. We are honored to host this celebration and I am especially proud that Attorney Bonauto will be our keynote speaker,” said Mayor Maher. “I cannot think of a more fitting person to celebrate this occasion in Cambridge.”

“It will be thrilling to be back at Cambridge City Hall to celebrate the historic Goodridge decision and the enormous progress in the nation 10 years later,” said Mary Bonauto, attorney at Gay and Lesbian Advocates and Defenders (GLAD).

Currently the Civil Rights Project Director at GLAD, Attorney Bonauto was the lead counsel in the Goodridge v. Dept of Public Health case, the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court decision which held that prohibiting marriage for same-sex couples is unconstitutional. A pioneer in the fight for same sex marriage, Attorney Bonauto continues to advocate for same sex couples and has been a leader in New England and throughout the country in defending the rights of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender communities.

“A decade ago, Cambridge and the Commonwealth set the nation on its course toward full marriage equality. This is a day to celebrate victories won and a day to reaffirm our country’s fundamental promise. Every American family deserves equality, dignity and opportunity regardless of who they love," said Congresswoman Katherine Clark, who has also confirmed her attendance at the event. Congresswoman Clark joins members of the Cambridge City Council, members of the Cambridge State Delegation as well as former Mayors and City Administrators to celebrate this occasion at City Hall.

Mayor Maher, the City of Cambridge, MassEquality, GLAD and the Cambridge GLBT Commission will welcome the public to the 10th Anniversary celebration by opening City Hall at 5 pm on Friday, May 16th with refreshments and musical performances by Voices Rising and Cambridge Rindge & Latin Students. Couples may begin the evening by taking their marriage vows or renewal of vows. A short film of the first marriages in Cambridge will be on display and many couples who filed their intentions to marry at midnight, May 16th, 2004, will also be present for the celebration.

The speaking program, featuring Attorney Bonauto, will begin at 6:00pm and at the conclusion, couples may continue to have marriage and renewal ceremonies performed until 7:30pm.

Couples who wish to take or renew their vows during this celebration and should contact Mayor Maher’s Office at (617) 349-4321 or mayor@cambridgema.gov for more information.

Ceremonies will take place throughout City Hall or on the City Hall lawn (weather permitting). City Hall will be open from 5:00 pm to 8:30pm for this event only.

This event is open to the public. [10th Anniversary Fact Sheet]


Affirmative Action Advisory Committee Vacancy - application deadline extended

City Manager Richard C. Rossi is seeking members for the city’s Affirmative Action Advisory Committee (AAAC). This committee reviews policies affecting municipal employment and its impact on affirmative action issues and serves in an advisory capacity to the city’s Director of Affirmative Action, Personnel Director and the City Manager. In this role, the AAAC:

Interested persons should send a letter of interest and/or resume via e-mail, mail or fax by Friday, May 16 to:
Richard Rossi, City Manager
City of Cambridge
795 Massachusetts Avenue
Cambridge, MA 02139
Ph. 617-349-4300; Fax 617-349-4307
E-mail: citymanager@cambridgema.gov


The Cambridge Bicycle Committee

in partnership with

The Cambridge Arts Council

Present

Sound + Vision

Tour will start as planned at 10:00am. Join the ride at the library at 11:30am for the second half of the tour. Please see this message for details.

Saturday, May 17, 2014

Assembly and orientation begins at 10am at the Cambridge Main Library, 449 Broadway

Ride departs promptly at 10:15am

Ride FAQ

Ride Route Map and Brochure

Enjoy a city-wide sound-art installation and share your vision for the arts in Cambridge on our “Sound + Vision” bicycle tour.

With the help of the Cambridge Arts Council, we’ve put together a tour of over 20 public art sites in Cambridge. We won’t just see art, we’ll hear art. As we ride from site to site, we’ll listen to the flowing, site-specific music of ROUND:Cambridge, commissioned by the arts council and created by Halsey Burgund. Each neighborhood has its own sound which smoothly transitions as you travel through the city.

ROUND:Cambridge also mixes-in participant’s voices. A smartphone app, available for both iOS and Android, enables you to record your reactions to the art. At selected public art stops, we’ll have the opportunity add our comments to the performance. The Arts Council will also be listening to our suggestions for the future use of a newly-created, full city block of open space in East Cambridge.

If your bike's not ready for the ride you can rent one for the day from Urban AdvenTours. They’re offering a special rate of $20 for the day of our ride. Call 617 670-0637 and tell them you’re riding with the Cambridge Bicycle Committee.

The 13-mile ride begins and ends at the main library, 449 Broadway. We’ll travel at a leisurely pace, escorted by Cambridge Police bicycle-patrol officers. Including time for stops, the ride will last about 2.5 hours. Like all our tours, this ride is free of charge.


City Offers Scholarships to Entrepreneurs through New Cambridge Entrepreneurship Assistance Program

The City of Cambridge Department of Community Development is pleased to announce its new Cambridge Entrepreneurship Assistance Program (CEAP) providing five scholarships to HUD-eligible Cambridge early-stage entrepreneurs in clean energy, consumer products, high tech and life science industries. The program provides these entrepreneurs with the opportunity to participate in The Capital Network’s six-month Accelerated Education Program (AEP) series on fundraising education.

The CEAP is a great example of the City leveraging a collaborative approach to helping residents and emerging Cambridge entrepreneurs through the creative investing of federal funding.” said City Manager Richard C. Rossi. “This program furthers Cambridge’s ongoing commitment to assisting residents and businesses in predominantly low-moderate income areas in the City.

The Capital Network (TCN) is a non-profit organization that provides extensive financial education alongside an engaged community to help early-stage entrepreneurs in the Greater Boston area. TCN’s Accelerated Education Program is a rotating six month program series on fundraising education for early-state entrepreneurs. Four months of the program is a series of educational workshops and seminars and an additional two months of the program provide participants access to roundtables and pitch practices with investors.

Christopher Mirabile, the Managing Director Launchpad Venture Group said, "As an investor, my job is much easier if an entrepreneur has been through AEP - they are versed in the key issues and grounded in the fundamentals."

The CEAP program will be offering office hours on Thurs, Apr 17, from 4:30-6:30pm, at Venture Café, One Broadway (Cambridge) for those interested in learning more about the program. Program applications will be taken on a competitive basis until the deadline of May 16, 2014. Applications will be reviewed and approved to make sure candidates are a good fit for the program. Applications can be found online one the Program’s website here: http://bit.ly/CEAP2014

For more information about the program or to obtain an application, contact Pardis Saffari at 617-349-4654 or psaffari@cambridgema.gov.


Hello Recycling & Composting Neighbors! - April-May 2014

recycling symbol

Cambridge Recycling at the Science Festival! 4/22
Household Hazardous Waste Day 5/3
Do Something Super with Unwanted Furniture
Recycling Tour 5/22
Compost Update, Yard Waste Labels & Rain Barrel Sale Thru 5/15

Cambridge Recycling at the Science Festival! 4/22

  • 4/22 – Sustainability in Cambridge – What’s it All About? Join the conversation.
    Learn about Net Zero, Composting, Hubway, Energy Efficiency, EcoDistricts, and more. Light refreshments will be served. 3-5pm, Cambridge Innovation Center - One Broadway, 5th Floor. RSVP to jlawrence@cambridgema.gov.
  • 4/22 – Save That Banana Peel and Eat Your Veggies Free Workshop
    6pm, Cambridge Innovation Center - One Broadway, Havana Room. Learn your options to compost and ways to reduce food waste ways from Cambridge's Recycling Director, Ms. Randi Mail. RSVP to recycle@cambridgema.gov.

Household Hazardous Waste Day 5/3, 6/7, 8/23, 10/4

There’ll be four HHW days this year. Cambridge residents only, bring proof of residency. We accept auto fluids, batteries (non alkaline), car tires, glues, medications, mercury items, paint products, solvents, and propane tanks (20 lbs or less). If the product label includes the words POISON, DANGER, WARNING, or CAUTION, bring to HHW day. Click here for more info including alternative options and what you can bring to the Recycling Center during open hours.

All HHW Days are on a Saturday from 9am-1pm, note the different locations:

  • May 3 at the Parking Lot on Field St at Fern St by Danehy Park
  • June 7 at the Volpe Transportation Building Parking Lot (55 Broadway)
  • August 23 at the Parking Lot on Field St at Fern St by Danehy Park
  • October 4 at the Volpe Transportation Building Parking Lot (55 Broadway)

Do Something Super with Unwanted Furniture

Moving June 1st and can’t take it all? Plan ahead and arrange a free pick up.
Items must be clean and usable. Someone’s gonna love your stuff.

1. Email pictures of your good-condition furniture to donations@mahomeless.org.

2. Schedule a pickup for the end of May…
The Coalition for the Homeless has set special pickup days in Cambridge at the end of May! They take kitchen tables & chairs, couches & sofa chairs, ottomans, hutches, end tables, coffee tables, bed frames, dressers, bookshelves, cabinets, rugs, lamps, dishes, pots & pans, and blankets & linens. Your donations will help low-income and formerly homeless families and individuals furnish their apartments at no cost to them.

**Know that year-round, you can arrange a free pickup just email pictures of your good-condition furniture in advance to donations@mahomeless.org.

3. Special spring dates for in-home collection of your good-condition furniture:

    

Your Collection Day     

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Furniture Pickup Days

Fri 5/16 & Fri 5/23

Mon 5/19 & Fri 5/23

Tue 5/20 & Wed 5/28

Wed 5/21 & Thu 5/29

Thu 5/22 & Fri 5/30

4. For more info and other pickup and drop-off options, visit CambridgeMA.Gov/Furniture.

Recycling Tour 5/22

Cambridge residents and City employees are invited to tour the Casella recycling facility in Charlestown on Thursday, May 22 (morning). No children under 16. Tours last about 2 hours. We walk on narrow catwalks and stairs, close to heavy equipment and at a steady pace with a group. We meet at DPW and carpool. Let us know if you can drive and how many people you can take. Email recycle@cambridgema.gov to sign up and we’ll send more info.

Compost Update, Yard Waste Labels & Rain Barrel Sale Thru 5/15

  • Compost Updates
    From Apr-Nov, Cambridge residents can get free compost in small quantities at the Recycling Center during open hours: Tues/Thurs 4pm-7:30pm and Sat 9am–4pm. Bring your own containers. Pemberton Farms at 2225 Mass Ave sells the Soil Saver for $60. Review outdoor composting tips online! Read about the City’s launch of our curbside pilot to pickup food scraps in North Cambridge, and note our newest food scraps drop-off on Sherman St at the St. Peters Field parking lot behind the shed.
  • Need yard waste labels?
    Just email us, or pick up some at DPW 147 Hampshire Street during office hours.
  • Rain Barrel Sale Thru 5/15
    Capture rainwater from your roof, store it in a rain barrel, and use later in your garden. You can reduce storm water runoff, conserve water and recharge groundwater. Buy a 60-gal rain barrel for $69, offer good through May 15. Barrels will be delivered May 22, from 4-7 pm at DPW, 147 Hampshire St. Click here to order online, call (800) 251-2352 or if you have questions email cwoodbury@cambridgema.gov.

  • Missed recycling or trash?  Please use iReport or call DPW at 617-349-4800 no later than 12 noon the day after collection to make a request. During winter, clear snow to curb so that collection crews can access your trash barrels and recycling toters and they are not behind snow banks. For more click here. Thank you!
  • Request for toters, brochures, stickers or posters? Use our online form.
  • "Like" the Cambridge DPW on Facebook.
  • During holidays weeks, trash, recycling and yard waste collection is delayed one day. Check the 2014 collection schedule online for full details.

Take the 50% recycling pledge today at www.cambridgema.gov/recycle and get a free sticker!
Recycle More. Trash Less.

2014 City of Cambridge Scholarship Recipients

Congratulations to the 2014 City of Cambridge Scholarship Awards Recipients. This year, the City of Cambridge will award 66 scholarships for $2,500 each to Cambridge high school seniors and others pursuing higher education. The 2014 recipients will be honored at a ceremony and reception Monday, May 12, at 4pm, in the Sullivan Chamber of Cambridge City Hall, 795 Massachusetts Avenue.

The City of Cambridge gratefully acknowledges the generous contribution of the many generous citizens and businesses of Cambridge who make this opportunity possible.

2014 City of Cambridge Scholarship Winners

Solomon Abrams
Chloe Adler
Sabbir Ahmmed
Qalani Aimes
Sydney Atkins
Ashia Aubourg
Neha Bagga
Vanessa Bellony
Amina Beshir
Elijah Booker
Robert William Bruce
Nestor Canenguez Soto
Tiffany Cheng
Cassandra Chung
Anna Chute
Hubens Cius
Rory Corcoran
Zubair Dar
Amanda Davis
Luc DeMarrais
Yoeal Efrem
Guerda Fevrier
Feben Gebreegziabher
Miriam Gheraissa
Anna Goncharova
Avery Guan
Danielle Heims-Waldron
Gabriel Hollander
Imran Hossin
Nadwa Ibrahim
Saugat KC
Sami Kebede
Rabia Khalid
Joseph Kimmel
Jacob Klibaner
Anna Klug
Zohra Lakri
Chloe Lee-Sarenac
Lydia Lewis
Emilia Logan
Alicia Lu
Maya Ludtke
Kaya Mark
Paolo Martins
Masroque Musa
Samuel Mazer
Metea McEnroe
Cameron McMillian
Fnan Mesmer
Ayida Nazaire
Herol Pires
Jordan Poindexter
Ta Seen Rahman
Noa Randall
Faralove Raphael
David Ricardo
Federico Roitman
Michael Scarlett
Emile Sternbach
Jeremy Sternbach
Lucia Tonachel
Teresa Tracy
Amy Tung
Louisa Winchell
Yaxin Yu
Sun-Ui Yum

Cambridge Public Health Department
Cambridge Biosafety Forum on May 13 and 14, 5:00-8:00pm -- Register Now!
[Forum Flyer]


2014 Outstanding City Employee Award Recipients

City Manager Richard C. Rossi is pleased to announce and congratulate the recipients of the 2014 Outstanding City Employee Award. Recipients were chosen for their superior performance above and beyond regular job duties, positive attitude, hard work and dedication to public service.

2014 Outstanding City Employee Award Winners:
Christopher Burke, Superintendent, Cambridge Police Department
David Byrne, Senior Building Inspector, Inspectional Services Department
Lisa Castagna, Administrative Assistant, Human Services Department
Stuart Dash, Director of Community Planning, Community Development Department
Tanya Ford, Executive Director, Election Commission
John McGrath, Supervisor, Public Works Department
Susan Richards, Agenda for Children Coordinator, Human Services Department
Julie Roach, Associate Librarian, Library
Nathanial Rookard, Skilled Laborer, Public Works Department
Maria Virginia Tavares, Office Manager, Public Health Department
Juliet Turner, Administrative Assistant, Finance Department
Stewart Won, Principal Clerk, City Clerk’s Office

The recipients will be honored at a ceremony on Friday, May 9, at 9:30am, in the Sullivan Chamber of Cambridge City Hall, 795 Massachusetts. All are welcome to attend.


Paris Baguette
Paris Baguette in the new Central Square H-Mart

Opening Day at H-Mart
Opening Day at the Central Square H-Mart - April 23, 2014

The H-Mart was open for just one day and already one prominent member of the Cambridge Residents Alliance had this to say: "The traffic in the Norfolk lot was insane, cars hovering for spaces, trucks jamming the lanes. Bishop Allen Drive was jammed too. I'm kinda worried if it keeps up that customers of the long-time businesses will not be able to park and it will hurt the businesses."

Poor baby. Meanwhile, Cambridge residents were thrilled that the new store was open with its great selection and attractive food court. Area businesses will only do better when there are more potential customers around, so I don't think they'll be complaining. People are going to H-Mart because the store provides goods that people actually want. The quality and prices seemed pretty good when I visited. It's a shame that some people can only see the negative. Is this a "tsunami of shoppers"? Is this "unbridled retail ruining our neighborhoods"? I don't think so. - RW


2014 Annual City Census

The Cambridge Election Commission has mailed the 2014 Annual City Census Form to all Cambridge households. Residents are urged to comply by completing the Census Form and returning it in the postage prepaid envelope that was provided.

The City is required to conduct the Annual Census under Massachusetts state law and provides residents with their only official proof of city residency. All residents, regardless of citizenship and voter registration status, are required to answer the Census. State law requires that voters who do not answer the Census shall be removed from the active voting list and may be removed from the Voter Registration rolls.

The census mailing includes the Census Form, Census Instructions in five languages and a Voter Registration Request Form. If you have any questions, you may call the Election Commission at 617-349-4361 during city office hours:
Monday, 8:30am–8:00pm
Tuesday through Thursday, 8:30am–5:00pm
Friday, 8:30am–Noon


The Cambridge Redevelopment Authority is looking for community input on ten locations throughout Cambridge: www.courb.co/CRA

City Manager's Report of Foundry Building (for Monday, March 3 Special City Council meeting)


Mar 1 - I read the following quote today on Facebook (apparently part of a new petition campaign): "Cambridge friends: The tsunami of development around Concord Ave & Alewife (2,400 new units & counting) is already having a giant impact on everyone's ability to access and enjoy open space at Danehy and Fresh Pond. The city is granting special permits right and left without any master plan or serious attempts to alleviate the transit and environmental impacts."

I don't know, but the familiar language ("tsunami of development") suggests this is yet another installment from the "Cambridge Residents Alliance" crowd, the group whose motto should really be "I was able to buy my house in Cambridge, but now it's time to shut the gates to the city." I remember a time not so long ago when Cambridge was widely considered a welcoming place, especially when it came to the provision of housing, including "affordable" housing. The quote above makes it brutally clear that the "Alliance" people are primarily objecting to housing - even though most planners agree that the impact of housing on traffic is relatively small compared to commercial development.

Perhaps it's time to consider a name change for the Cambridge Residents Alliance (and its bunkmate, the "Association of Cambridge Neighborhoods"). The name Cambridge Residents Opposed to New Housing seems so much more to the point. - RW


Cambridge’s Annual Commemoration of the Holocaust
Wednesday, May 7, 7:00 to 9:00pm, Temple Beth Shalom, 8 Tremont St., Cambridge

Peace FlameRecalling all who perished during the Holocaust, this year’s program features an evening of music, candle lighting, and remembrance. The guest speaker is Israel “Izzy” Arbeiter. Mr. Arbeiter is a Holocaust survivor and lifelong human rights activist who lost several family members – including both of his parents – in the Holocaust. He spent five years imprisoned by the Third Reich in labor camps and concentration camps, including Auschwitz, and at one point played dead to avoid being executed.

For over 60 years, Mr. Arbeiter has dedicated his life to commemorating the Holocaust and to educating others about it. He has stood up and spoken for the rights of survivors of all races and religions, demanding that the world must remember what has happened, to understand why it happened, and to identify the seeds from which hate grows.

Music will be provided by cellist Lily Bouvier, the Cambridge Community Chorus, and the Cambridge Rindge & Latin School Vocal Ensemble.

The program is free, open to all, and wheelchair accessible. It welcomes all communities of Cambridge – including children and adults and people of all faiths and traditions. For more information contact the Cambridge Peace Commission at peace@cambridgema.gov or 617.349.4694 – or visit www.cambridgema.gov/peace.

Temple Beth Shalom is located just off Broadway at 8 Tremont St., between Hampshire St. and Broadway (Tremont St. is one block east of Prospect St., between Central and Inman squares). Limited free parking is available.


Cambridge Senior Center to host Poetry Reading and Writing Workshops

The Cambridge Citywide Senior Center will host two poetry reading and writing workshops in the coming weeks led by Cambridge Poet Populist Lo Galluccio as part of National Poetry Month and Senior Citizen Month. Norma Roth, Senior Activist, Educator and Author will also be on hand to read from her own works. The theme for the upcoming workshops will be Aging Gracefully, Aging Defiantly.

Tuesday, Apr 29, 1-3pm, Citywide Senior Center, 806 Mass. Ave.
Tuesday, May 6, 1-3pm, Citywide Senior Center, 806 Mass. Ave.

For more information or to sign up to attend, call the Citywide Senior Center at 617-349-6060.


Cambridge Hosts Opportunity Fair for Youth Seeking Employment and Adults Hoping to Learn New Job Skills

The City of Cambridge in collaboration with Just-A-Start Corporation (JAS) will be hosting an Opportunities Fair on Mon, May 5, from 4:30-6:30pm, at Cambridge Public Library, 449 Broadway, Cambridge. The fair will provide a good opportunity for Cambridge youth seeking employment opportunities and adults interested in increasing their job skill set.

Information on education and training programs that will be at the fair includes:

The Opportunity Fair is open to all Cambridge residents and is sponsored by the City Cambridge and Just-A-Start Corporation. No registration is required. For more information on the fair, please contact Pardis Saffari at 617-349-4654 or via email at: psaffari@cambridgema.gov. For more information on the Just-A-Start Corporation, visit: http://www.justastart.org.


Tues, April 29: Tonight's broadcast of Cambridge InsideOut was cancelled due to our scheduled guest (Leland Cheung) being unavailable. We should be back next Tuesday, May 6.


Kingsley Park to Close April – September 2014 for Critical Restoration Work

The Cambridge Water Department (CWD) will begin Phase I of The Kingsley Park Restoration Project at Fresh Pond Reservation on April 1, 2014, kicking-off a much-needed overhaul of the park.

To protect the public’s safety and for the restoration’s success, Kingsley Park will be closed from April 1 – September 1, 2014. CWD is also asking for the public’s cooperation in keeping all dogs leashed while on path detours, and to stay out of fenced vegetation recovery areas once the park is re-opened. CWD will hold a public meeting (date TBD) regarding the project before work begins at Kingsley Park.

This multi-phased project aims to preserve and improve the historic, recreational and ecological resources of Kingsley Park. Targeted during this first phase are improvements to accessibility, pathways and benches, irrigation and drainage, native species habitat, historic overlooks and the addition of discovery zones for children. The Water Department understands that the closure is inconvenient, but the restoration is necessary for the long-term health of the Reservation.

Over the past century, Kingsley Park has been used intensively for recreation and is visited by several hundred people on a busy day. However, Kingsley Park’s ultimate function – like the all of Fresh Pond Reservation – is to be a protective buffer around Fresh Pond, Cambridge’s raw drinking water supply. The high volume of use at Kingsley Park has impacted its ecological health and water protection capacity, as well as its recreational infrastructure. The project has been vetted through extensive public and design processes, which began in 2011, and is a high priority of the Fresh Pond Reservation Master Plan.

To address recreational needs at Kingsley Park, the restoration work will include:

To remediate rising ecological stresses on Kingsley Park, the restoration work will include:

Updates on the Kingsley Restoration Project and the upcoming public meeting are available on the CWD projects webpage at www.cambridgema.gov/water/projects. The public can also follow the CWD on Facebook and Twitter for real-time updates related to the Cambridge water supply and Fresh Pond Reservation. Concerned community members are encouraged to contact CWD staff at 617-349-6489 or fpr@cambridgema.gov.


Mar 18 - Central Square Advisory Committee members appointed by City Manager

Central SquareCity Manager Richard Rossi has appointed the following people to the Central Square Advisory Committee:

In addition to the long-standing responsibilities of the committee in the Central Square Overlay District section of the Cambridge Zoning Ordinance, it is expected that the committee will meet with much greater frequency in the future and also advise on the non-zoning recommendations that grew out of the Central Square part of the recent K2C2 process.

Central Square Advisory Committee website (Community Development Department)

Roster of all Cambridge Boards & Commissions (updated as new members are appointed)


March 18, 2014 edition of Cambridge InsideOut with Tim Toomey

Cambridge InsideOut Episode 45 with Tim Toomey (Part 1).
This episode broadcast on March 18, 2014 at 5:30pm.
Susana Segat and Robert Winters are the hosts. Topics discussed were:
(1) Tim's role as senior member of the Cambridge City Council,
(2) reflections on the years of the CCA and the dominant rent control issue,
(3) middle-income housing and Inclusionary Zoning,
(4) the status of the Sullivan Courthouse building,
(5) changes in Kendall Square over the years,
(6) effect of projects never built - NASA, the Inner Belt, and the Kennedy Library,
(7) Grand Junction possibilities, and
(8) the importance of constituent services.
[Watch on YouTube]

Cambridge InsideOut Episode 46 with Tim Toomey (Part 2).
This episode broadcast on March 18, 2014 at 6:00pm.
Susana Segat and Robert Winters are the hosts. Topics discussed were:
(1) "Rule 10 Day" at the state legislature,
(2) the status of the election reform bill,
(3) upcoming initiative petitions,
(4) medical marijuana dispensaries,
(5) the Foundry and possible role of the Cambridge Redevelopment Authority,
(6) possible changes to the PR Count,
(7) MIT graduate student housing, and
(8) Women's History Month.
[Watch on YouTube]

Comments?

City of Cambridge Patriots' Day Observance April 21

The Cambridge Veterans’ Organization (CVO) and the City of Cambridge’s Department of Veterans’ Services will hold their annual Patriots' Day Observance on Mon, April 21 at 10:45am, at the Washington Monument located on the Cambridge Common.

Philip Anderson, CVO President, will serve as Master of Ceremonies. Mayor David P. Maher will extend the City’s greetings. Cambridge City Councilor Marc McGovern will deliver the keynote address.

The event will be highlighted by a reenactment of Patriot William Dawes, Jr., historic horseback ride from Boston to Cambridge alerting the colonists of the British threat of 1775.  General Dawes, dressed in colonial garb, will deliver the alert to Mayor Maher.  A memorial wreath will be laid at General George Washington’s monument and the CVO Firing Team will render a Rifle Salute followed by the blowing of TAPS by bugler, Greg Gettle.

A Cambridge Rindge & Latin School Drama student will read the Governor’s Patriots’ Day Proclamation. A CRLS music student will sing the National Anthem and God Bless America.

For more information, call Cambridge Veterans’ Services at 617-349-4761, TTY 617-492-0235 or visit www.cambridgema.gov/vet.


Nominations Sought for 2014 Outstanding City Employee Awards

Cambridge City Manager Richard C. Rossi is seeking nominations for the 2014 Outstanding City Employee Awards program which recognizes employees for exemplary performance and contributions that go above and beyond job requirements.

Cambridge city government is made up of dedicated employees who strive to provide a high level of quality services to all its citizens. The annual awards ceremony provides a special opportunity to give some well deserved recognition to a handful of deserving individuals. Winners will be recognized at a special awards ceremony on Friday, May 9, 2014.

Outstanding City Employee Awards are designed to recognize contributions that are above and beyond job requirements. Criteria for determining outstanding performance include:

All city employees are eligible for nomination. Anyone who lives or works in Cambridge may nominate an employee for recognition and there is no limit as to how many employees may be nominated. A separate Nomination Form or letter must be submitted for each employee. An employee may not nominate her or his own supervisor or department head for recognition.

Online Nomination Forms can be accessed from this news story posted on the city’s website, www.cambridgema.gov. A signed nomination letter may be submitted instead of the nomination form. Completed nominations must be submitted to the Personnel Department by Friday, April 11, 2014. In addition, you may e-mail nominations to mcarvello@cambridgema.gov or fax to the Personnel Department at 617-349-4312.

For more information, contact Maryellen Carvello at mcarvello@cambridgema.gov or 617-349-4301.

Comments?


City of Cambridge Fair Housing Award Ceremony April 16

April is Fair Housing Month and the Cambridge Human Rights Commission is hosting the 21st Annual Fair Housing Awards Ceremony Wed, Apr 16, 5-7pm, at Cambridge City Hall, Sullivan Chamber, 795 Massachusetts Ave. Refreshments will be served.

The keynote speaker is Barbara Chandler, Senior Advisor on Civil Rights and Fair Housing, Metropolitan Boston Housing Partnership and the Master of Ceremonies is Erika Tarantal, Anchor & Reporter of WCVB NewsCenter 5.

Student winners of the Fair Housing Poster and Essay Contest in grades 5-8 will be awarded. The public is welcome.


Meeting Notices - Net Zero Task Force Working Groups April 7 and 8, regular meeting April 9

The first meetings of the Net Zero Task Force Working Groups are scheduled for Monday April 7th and Tuesday April 8th. To view the full schedule and details, please go to the Net Zero Task Force webpage under the “Schedule” tab. All Working Group meetings are open to the public.

The next Getting to Net Zero Task Force meeting is scheduled for Wed, April 9, 6:00pm to 8:00pm at Cambridge City Hall, Sullivan Chamber, 795 Massachusetts Avenue. All Task Force meetings are open to the public. Information on the Getting to Net Zero Task Force is available at www.cambridgema.gov/home/CDD/Projects/Climate/netzerotaskforce.aspx. If you have any questions, please contact Ellen Kokinda at ekokinda@cambridgema.gov or 617-349-4618.


28th Annual Cambridge CityRun 5-Miler and Henrietta’s 3-Mile Fun Walk
Sunday, Apr 6, 10:30am – Noon. Reporting Time: 8:30-10am
Start/Finish: Russell Youth Center, 680 Huron Ave., Cambridge

The Cambridge CityRun 5-Mile Road Race and Henrietta’s 3-Mile Fun Walk is a popular rite of spring that attracts over 1,200 runners and walkers annually and has been named one of the top 75 road races in New England by the prestigious New England Runner magazine.

This scenic, flat, tree-lined course starts and finishes at the Russell Youth Center located at 680 Huron Ave in Cambridge. Two miles into the race, the course runs along the perimeter of the Fresh Pond Reservoir - away from cars and distractions. The race has been measured and certified by the officials at the U.S.A.T.F.

Thanks to the support of our sponsors, proceeds from the event will benefit Friends of Cambridge Athletics (FOCA), the Andrea Harvey Memorial Fund and the Recreation Division Cambridge Program. FOCA, in its 16th year at CRLS, is a volunteer non-profit parent organization that strives to improve the character and discipline of young teens through sports activities. The organization has supported and introduced new sports such as Crew, Gymnastics, Girls Hockey, Wrestling and Lacrosse.

The Andrea Harvey Memorial Fund is dedicated to a former Cambridge resident and teacher at East Boston High School who was a tragic victim of domestic abuse. These funds help provide college scholarships to students from Cambridge Rindge and Latin High School.

The Cambridge Program is designed to enhance the lives of its clients by providing quality programs that are geared to promote self-esteem, encourage social interaction and increase physical well being. A main goal of the program is to help create for individuals with a range of needs, an empathetic community through care, respect and understanding of differences.

To participate in this event, visit www.marathonsports.com. To volunteer, please contact Paul Ryder at 617-349- 6229 or pryder@cambridgema.gov.


Rabies Vaccination Clinic for Dogs Only - Saturday, April 5

Rabies has and will continue to be present in Cambridge and throughout the Commonwealth The best thing you can do for your pet (dogs and cats), is to have them vaccinated and to teach your family and friends to avoid contact with wild animals. The basic rule is to “leave wildlife alone.” The Cambridge Animal Commission is sponsoring a Rabies Vaccination Clinic for Dogs on Saturday April 5, from 9-11 a.m., Public Works lot, 147 Hampshire St., Cambridge. The cost is $10 per dog.

For your pet’s safety, dogs must be leashed at all times. Dog licenses for the license period from April 1, 2014 to March 31, 2015 will be available at the clinic. Pet owners are also welcome to stop by to pick up a license if their dog is up to date on its rabies vaccination. A vaccination clinic for cats has not been planned. If your cat needs to be vaccinated, there are clinics in the area that administer low cost programs for rabies vaccinations. Please call the Cambridge Animal Commission at 617-349-4376 for more information.

Controlling your dog at all times is also an excellent way to keep them protected. When you are outside with your dog, please make sure to obey the leash law. When you are in shared use areas in the city, always have your dog under control and within your sight (particularly at Fresh Pond). Please note that there are fundamental elements of these regulations that are posted at the shared use areas and also at the designated dog parks in the city. Cat owners should keep their cats indoors; it’s a safe and controlled environment. The Commonwealth of Massachusetts Laws state that all dogs and cats over the age of 6 months must be vaccinated against rabies; some veterinarians will vaccinate at an earlier age.

As always the Cambridge Animal Commission would like to remind dog owners of the three L’s of dog ownership – License, Leash and Love your pet.


City of Cambridge Seeking Applicants for Municipal Firefighter Exam on April 26, 2014

firefighter

Do you or someone you know possess integrity, courage and a willingness to help those in need? Perhaps you are ready to pursue a career as a Firefighter! The City of Cambridge is currently recruiting applicants to take the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Open Competitive Municipal Service Written Examination for Firefighters to be held on Saturday, April 26, 2014.

The Municipal Firefighter Examination consists of two components: the Written Examination and the Physical Abilities Test. Candidates must take and pass both components in order to be placed on the eligible list for appointment in a civil service city or town. The early application deadline is March 17, 2014, with an application fee of $200. Applications will be accepted no later than March 31, 2014, with a fee of $250.

More job information is available online at www.CambridgeMA.gov under “JOBS” or at www.cambridgefire.org.

For examination instructions and publications, visit www.mass.gov/civilservice or call the examination hotline at 617-878-9895.


Hello Recycling & Composting Neighbors! - March 2014

recycling symbol

Spring Dates for Recycling Tours!
Free Document Shredding 3/8
Get Green on St. Patty’s: Compost Workshop 3/17
Yard Waste Collection Starts 3/31
Donate & Recycle Stuff!

Spring Dates for Recycling Tours!

Cambridge residents and City employees are invited to tour the Casella recycling facility in Charlestown on Wednesday, April 23 (morning) or Thursday, June 5 (afternoon). No children under 16. Tours last ~2 hours. You must be walk at a steady pace with a group, on narrow catwalks and stairs, close to heavy equipment. We meet at DPW and carpool. Email recycle@cambridgema.gov to sign up and we’ll send you more info. Let us know if can drive and how many people you can take. *We will also offer a virtual recycling tour on Monday, May 19 at 6:15pm at DPW, 147 Hampshire St.

Free Document Shredding 3/8

The Cambridge Consumers’ Council and US Postal Service are offering a free document shredding on Saturday, March 8 from 10am-2pm, at the Central Square Post Office, 770 Mass. Ave, snow or shine. Members of the public can securely dispose of personal and confidential paper documents. Documents will be destroyed on the spot in a highly advanced technical mobile shredding truck and sent for recycling. Ten minute drop-off parking will be available on Mass Ave between Sellers & Pleasant Street. Please call the Consumers Council at 617.349.6150 or email consumer@cambridgema.gov.

Get Green on St. Patty’s: Compost Workshop 3/17

Free Workshop: Monday, March 17, 6:15pm, Public Works, 147 Hampshire St, 1st floor conference room. Learn your options to compost food scraps, and ways to reduce food waste. Cambridge's Recycling Director, Ms. Randi Mail will review best practices for outdoor composting, indoor composting with worms, and options for drop-off and bicycle pickup. Recycling food scraps and making soil is extremely rewarding, benefits your garden and house plants and helps to curb climate change! Reducing food waste is also incredibly important considering that Americans waste more than 40% of the food we produce for consumption. That comes at an annual cost of more than $100 billion. For more info on composting, click here. To RSVP for this workshop email recycle@cambridgema.gov.

Yard Waste Collection Starts 3/31

Weekly yard waste collection of leaves, grass, plants and small branches (same pickup day as recycling/trash) begins the week of March 31-April 4 and goes until through December 8-12. Place yard waste in paper refuse bags or loose in barrels, no plastic bags. Request stickers online or call 617-349-4800. From April-October, free compost is available to residents in small quantities at the Recycling Center during open hours: Tues/Thurs 4-7:30pm and Sat 9-4pm. Note that clean plastic plant pots are accepted with curbside recycling. Pemberton Farms sells the SoilSaver backyard compost bin for $60 at 2225 Mass Ave. Make sure your backyard compost bin is at least 50% “browns” (dry leaves, torn up cardboard, crumpled paper) and no more than 50% “greens” (food scraps, grass). Always bury greens or cover up with browns. Keep your backyard compost bin vegetarian (no meat, no dairy, no oils). If you cannot compost at home, find out where you can drop-off food scraps!

Donate & Recycle Stuff!

Clothing, Textiles & Household Goods
Visit our Donate Your Stuff map of donation spots. Good stuff is reused, damaged stuff is recycled.

Electronics
Local retailers take back electronics like Best Buy, Staples, RadioShack, and Apple! See our Take It Back map that shows businesses that take back products and packaging for recycling, composting, or reuse. Check the City’s recycling website too.

Furniture
Plan ahead and call a local organization to arrange a free pickup of your good-condition furniture. Your donation benefits people in need! Or, post on Craig’s List or Freecycle.

Books
Bring to a local retailer like Rodney’s Bookstore, Raven Books, Lorem Ipsum, a Got Books donation box, or the Recycling Center.


  • Missed recycling or trash?  Please use iReport or call DPW at 617-349-4800 no later than 12 noon the day after collection to make a request. During winter, clear snow to curb so that collection crews can access your trash barrels and recycling toters and they are not behind snow banks. For more click here. Thank you!
  • Request for toters, brochures, stickers or posters? Use our online form.
  • "Like" the Cambridge DPW on Facebook.
  • During holidays weeks, trash, recycling and yard waste collection is delayed one day. Check the 2014 collection schedule online for full details.

Take the 50% recycling pledge today at www.cambridgema.gov/recycle and get a free sticker!
Recycle More. Trash Less.

Celebrate Women Business Leaders in Cambridge March 27

City Councillor E. Denise Simmons, the Office of the City Manager and the Cambridge Women’s Commission invite you to Celebrate Women Business Leaders in Cambridge Thursday, March 27, 5:30-7:30pm, Cambridge City Hall, 2nd Floor, 795 Massachusetts Ave. Light refreshments will be served.

In honor of Women’s History Month in March, please join us for this special evening to celebrate our top female executives, business owners and business leaders in Cambridge.  Come network, share thoughts and feedback directly to the City Administration.

RSVP to Neal Alpert nalpert@cambridgema.gov or 617-349-4277.


Upcoming Work on Western Avenue

Beginning Wednesday, March 19, crews will be rehabilitating the sewer mains on Western Avenue between Gilmore Street and Memorial Drive, by using a method referred to as “cured in place pipelining”. This system will provide a new, jointless sewer pipe that minimizes root and water infiltration problems, improves flow, and provides for a more structural sound pipe without the need for excavation. This work is expected to be completed within a week and a half. During this work, crews will be working on a 24 hour basis, but will not be performing any work on Saturday, March 22 and Sunday, March 23. Motorists and cyclists traveling on Western Ave may experience delays, so please be sure to allow ample time to reach your destination. Pedestrians will maintain access for the duration of the work. As previously mentioned, there is no excavation required for the work that is scheduled to be performed, so the amount of noise generated will be very limited. Crews will have generators and pumps onsite to assist with the operation. Please note that poor weather conditions may extend the length of the work.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding this work, please do not hesitate to contact Chris Neil, DPW Community Relations Manager, at 617-349-4825. In case of emergencies, please dial 617-349-4825 to reach the DPW 24-hotline.


MBTA Role in Jump-starting Development of the Cambridge Center Project
Kendall Station Urban Initiatives Project, 1979-1989

By Thad Tercyak, Cambridge Redevelopment Authority, Associate Director, 1968-1990

The purpose of this narrative is to provide additional information about the Cambridge Redevelopment Authority's (CRA) Kendall Square Urban Renewal Project and to describe the role of the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) and the U.S. Dept. of Transportation, Urban Mass Transportation Administration (UMTA) in helping to jump-start development of the CRA's Cambridge Center Project in 1979-1989, a major factor in helping to attract high-tech companies to locate in the East Cambridge industrial area. UMTA provided the MBTA with critical financial assistance made available under President Carter's Urban Initiatives Program.

Kendall Urban Initiatives Project 1980
KENDALL SQUARE URBAN RENEWAL PROJECT
Urban Initiatives Project - 1980

To understand the Kendall Square Urban Renewal Project, it must be divided into two phases:

Phase 1. 1963-1979. The objective was to transform a 43-acre blighted urban industrial area into vacant land for construction of improvements.
Background. The Kendall Square Urban Redevelopment Project planning activities during Phase 1 included creating, initiating and financing the Kendall Square Urban Renewal Project; preparing an urban renewal plan to accommodate development by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA); and, after NASA withdrew from the Project, preparing an entirely new plan for development by private developers; a painful, prolonged and laborious process because Cambridge was unprepared to carry out the difficult and complicated tasks involved in overhauling the original plan with an entirely new plan.

In 1965, when the City of Cambridge approved the CRA's original Kendall Square Urban Renewal Project, it anticipated that the Project would attract NASA-related private development to replace a blighted industrial area of old, deteriorated and underutilized buildings with a modern, attractive industrial area which would generate tax revenues and jobs. In 1970, when NASA withdrew from the Kendall Square Urban Renewal Project and transferred its interests in the Kendall Square Project to the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), the feeling in Cambridge was that the project had been delivered a tremendous setback because it lost its major developer; a severe blow to the city's efforts to expand its economic base.

The 1970-77 period involved two major activities:
(1) The execution of land preparation activities in order to transform a 43-acre industrial slum into vacant land for new construction. The activities required the acquisition of 70 parcels of land, relocation of the Broad Canal to an underground water system, relocation of nearly 100 businesses, demolition of 50 buildings, construction of infrastructure, and formation of new traffic patterns of circulation. Land preparation activities are the "nitty-gritty, heavy-lifting" period of the redevelopment process because most are messy, noisy, a public nuisance and a favorite subject of complaint.

(2) The resolution of planning issues in order to amend the Kendall Square Urban Renewal Plan to designate new reuses for the land. Activities included negotiations between the CRA, DOT, and the U.S. General Services Administration to retrieve the rights to develop 10 acres of vacant land left behind by NASA; and rejection by the Cambridge City Council of four redevelopment plans prepared by a task force comprised of representatives from a cross section of Cambridge organizations working with the CRA.

In 1976, the CRA engaged the Urban Land Institute's (ULI) advisory panel services to review the Kendall Square Project and propose ways to help break the multi-year planning deadlock. Among the "Findings, Conclusions, and Recommendations" of the ULI panel:

• Only a few properties in the country have a broader array of locational advantages as the Kendall Square area and the opportunities associated with the Kendall Square Urban Renewal Project: Cambridge Center is a unique opportunity area, one that should be reserved to maximize its locational advantages.

The MBTA's Kendall Station subway is one of the more spectacular assets affecting the redevelopment potential of the CRA's Cambridge Center project (emphasis added).

• Attracting developers will not be easy. Citizen concerns, political pressure, economic uncertainty, the absence of a united and strong development process, high taxes, environmental constraints, contentious political climate, and congested surface transportation have combined to create a credibility problem with the real estate development community relative to the City of Cambridge. With few exceptions, the lack of credibility has been a severe restraint to real estate development in Cambridge.

These development problems are such that all but the most determined developer, the one who perceives a very close relationship between locational advantages and development opportunities, will be deterred from coming into the community (emphasis added).

Engaging the ULI greatly helped to break the planning deadlock because the panel's expertise gained the confidence of the Cambridge City Council and the CRA. The panel advised the CRA to make extraordinary efforts to impress potential developers by efficiently completing site preparations and all major pre-physical development activities. The CRA responded by removing legal and technical impediments to development by completing an Environmental Impact Statement; securing plan and zoning amendments; carrying out a $7-million public improvements program; and implementing traffic circulation plans, such as widening Binney Street to provide direct major access to Memorial Drive.

In 1977, Cambridge City Council approved a mixed-use development plan for the Kendall Square Urban Renewal Project. For marketing purposes the name Cambridge Center was adopted to refer to the 24 acres in the Kendall Square Project Area separate from the land occupied by DOT. In 1978, the CRA invited proposals to develop Cambridge Center, and in 1979, selected Boston Properties as the initial developer.

Phase 2. 1980-Present. The objective was to sell the vacant land created during Phase 1 for private development.
The CRA and Boston Properties executed a Development Agreement which provided that the CRA would sell land to Boston Properties in stages after approval of development plans; and Boston Properties was required to start construction of an office building within seven months of signing the agreement.

Because of the disorderly events of the 1970's, expectations regarding development of the CRA's Kendall Square Urban Renewal Project were gloomy. Mortimer Zuckerman, one of the two Boston Properties principals, was aware of the difficulties: "It was a very bleak time when the Kennedy Space Center moved to Texas...There was just a lot of land there" (Woolhouse, "Making a High Tech Mecca", Boston Globe, June 26, 2011)".

The CRA realized that to overcome Cambridge's credibility problem with the real estate community, it had to establish a reputation for being able to work efficiently and effectively with Boston Properties in stimulating private development of the Cambridge Center Project. The MBTA was about to provide the CRA with the opportunity to establish that reputation.

The MBTA operated three facilities in the Kendall Square Urban Renewal Project area: the Kendall subway station (Kendall Station), bus layover facilities, and a traction power substation. The Kendall Station was old (built in 1912), dilapidated, obsolete, with dimly lighted platforms. The traction power substation was considered to be obsolete and a blighting influence, and its 50' high fire-damaged brick facade dominated the heavily travelled Main Street eastern entrance to the Kendall Square area.

The MBTA recognized that because of the improvements designated for the CRA's Kendall Square Urban Renewal Project, the MBTA facilities would have to be modernized. During the mid-1970's, the MBTA and the CRA staffs met to coordinate plans regarding future reconstruction efforts. It was decided that reconstruction would be integrated with the CRA's redevelopment activities, and the CRA's Concept Design Plan for the Kendall Square Project would be used as the standard for urban design amenities.

By coincidence, Jimmy Carter was the U.S President from 1977 to 1981, and his Urban Policy plans included shifting the allocation of federal resources to favor urban areas. Priority was to be given to projects that leveraged the expenditure of federal funds and strong incentives would be awarded to projects engaged in efforts to attract private investments to urban areas. The effort would be called the President's Urban Initiatives Program.

Kendall Station Urban Initiatives Project
The MBTA determined that its Kendall Station met the qualifications to receive designation as a Urban Initiatives Project because it was already integrating its plans for modernizing the Kendall Station with the CRA's plans for the Kendall Square Urban Renewal Project, and that the CRA had executed a Development Agreement with Boston Properties to attract private development and investments to the Cambridge Center Project. In its application to UMTA for project approval, the MBTA made the following points:

"The project's financial assistance will be used to provide Kendall Station improvements in support of a major urban redevelopment effort and to stimulate private investments for urban improvements... The CRA has designated Boston Properties as developer for Cambridge Center and Boston Properties is expected to generate $150 million of private investment over the next 10 years and produce in excess of one-million square feet of office, hotel, retail, and open space. More immediately, Boston Properties is prepared to begin construction in October, 1979, of the first office building (13 stories) involving 250,000 square feet of space and costing approximately $20 million. This initial investment could be followed the next year with a second building of the same magnitude".

UMTA designated the Kendall Station project as an Urban Initiatives Project, agreeing that "the proposal has excellent characteristics for effectively achieving the President's intentions in calling for an UMTA Urban Initiatives Program". The Kendall Station Urban Initiatives Project involved the CRA, the MBTA, and Boston Properties. It included Parcel 4 of the Kendall Square Urban Renewal Project, a triangular 5-acre site bordered by Main Street, Broadway and Sixth Street around the Kendall Station.

Initially, because of budgetary constraints, the MBTA programmed construction of the Kendall Station improvements for the late-1980's and called for only a modest renovation of the existing facilities and entrances; and the program for the traction power substation provided only for replacement of electrical equipment, with no provision for replacing and relocating the building. This schedule was of grave concern to the CRA because the Kendall Station, in its present antiquated condition, would have an adverse effect on the initial marketing efforts by Boston Properties to attract private development to the area.

At that time, Boston Properties marketing efforts highlighted the locational advantages of the Kendall Station: (1) The MIT campus was in the immediate neighborhood. (2) Two subway stops easterly from the Kendall Station was downtown Boston, and two subway stops westerly was Harvard University. (3) The MBTA public transit system provided access to virtually the entire Boston Metropolitan Area. (4) The Kendall Station was within easy walking distance of any location within the Cambridge Center Project area. The CRA believed that an efficient and timely transformation of the Kendall Station from old, dilapidated and obsolete to a modern, attractive, and well-designed subway station, and the simultaneous construction of buildings by Boston Properties and public improvements by the CRA could have a dramatic positive effect on Boston Properties' marketing efforts. Also it could stimulate private development of the vacant land in the rest of Cambridge Center; and might influence the real estate community's perception of Cambridge's credibility.

The CRA requested (1) the MBTA reschedule construction of the Kendall Station to start during the early 1980's, and the proposed station improvements be upgraded to match the CRA's design standards; and (2) the traction power substation be replaced and relocated so that it could be subsumed within the private development occurring on-site. The MBTA was supportive, but because the MBTA system had operated at a loss during the past five years, it had determined that "no part of the costs associated with the Kendall Station Urban Initiatives Project can be financed from MBTA revenue".

Designation of the Kendall Station modernization plans as an UMTA Urban Initiatives Project also qualified the MBTA for the maximum amount of Federal assistance, making it eligible to receive funding from UMTA. Accordingly, UMTA provided the critical financing the MBTA needed to reschedule construction of the Kendall Station to begin sooner, upgrade design standards, and relocate the new traction power substation.

Then a rare event took place in the City of Cambridge. Two public agencies - the CRA and the MBTA - and a private developer - Boston Properties - initiated meetings to discuss the funding, design and construction details of the Kendall Station Urban Initiatives Project. They entered into a variety of formal and informal arrangements to cooperate in the planning and development around the Kendall Station. Their arrangements extended from land use planning and urban design to land acquisition and transfer policies, construction activities, and the maintenance of public and private improvements. For example:

• The Kendall Station modernization would include lengthening the subway platforms from four cars to six cars, relocating the stations entrances, and upgrading the stations interiors.

• The MBTA's new traction power substation would be integrated with the improvements planned by the CRA and Boston Properties.

• The CRA's design standards for the renewal area would be used to plan project improvements related to the Kendall Station reconstruction.

• The CRA was awarded a $5.1-million grant to provide transit-related improvements and urban design amenities, including street and sidewalk improvements, a bus contraflow lane, a Transit Plaza, an urban park at the gateway to the project, and pedestrian connections to nearby neighborhoods.

Urban Initiatives Project Area - 1980

Construction Coordination
A particularly difficult task was the coordination of simultaneous construction activities by the three entities in performing over- lapping construction work within tight, limited areas where the lines of responsibilities were difficult to draw. The parties devised a cost-sharing formula to determine how much of the total cost would be the responsibility of each party if the entire job was performed by a single contractor. A contractor would then be engaged and each party would pay its agreed-upon share of the total contractor cost. For example:

• The MBTA dug a huge excavation across Main Street and abutting vacant land. The excavation was for the expansion and renovation of the Kendall Station (to be constructed by the MBTA); and for an area to provide services to the buildings on Parcel 4 (to be built by Boston Properties). The building service area was to be located under a Transit Plaza (to be built by the CRA) so that it would be out-of-sight.

• The new northerly entrance to the subway (to be built by the MBTA) would abut the Transit Plaza (to be built by the CRA) and include an extended canopy from the wall of an office building (to be built by Boston Properties). The canopy would provide the MBTA patrons with a covered walkway and direct access to a food court (to be built by Boston Properties).

• The three parties collaborated on the location and design of the new traction power substation (to be built by the MBTA) so that a 12-story office building (to be built by Boston Properties) could be constructed on air rights over it.

• As construction was completed by the MBTA and Boston Properties, the CRA was to construct public improvements in the abutting public ways.

The redevelopment of Parcel 4 was a team effort by the CRA, the MBTA, and Boston Properties. The renovations by the MBTA in modernizing the Kendall Station, and by the CRA in constructing public improvements and urban design amenities, created an environment to reinforce Boston Properties' marketing efforts to attract highly-qualified companies to locate in the Cambridge Center Project.

Kendall Station - Urban Initiatives Project - 1985
KENDALL STATION
Urban Initiatives Project - 1985

Urban Initiatives Project Area - 1985
Urban Initiatives Project Area - 1985
Construction Coordination

Urban Initiatives Project Area - 1989
Urban Initiatives Project Area - 1989

Transit Plaza contributions
The Transit Plaza, named Nowiszewski Plaza, abutted the Kendall Station's exit/access, and was surrounded by active uses. It included a multicolored paving pattern, and a 75-foot sculptured tower, which also served as an emergency exit for the hotel, ventilation for the building service area under the Plaza, and amphitheater seating. Boston Properties funded the tower and the gold-leaf octahedron adorning its top, and was obliged to operate, maintain, and repair the Transit Plaza.

(NOTE: The Transit Plaza was subsequently modified.)

Urban Initiatives Project - 1989
Urban Initiatives Project - 1989

Pedestrian Circulation
Efforts were made to facilitate pedestrian circulation and activities: 5 Cambridge Center contained Legal Seafood restaurant; 3 Cambridge Center had a food court and MIT Coop store; and 2 Cambridge Center, a hotel abutting the Transit Plaza, had a restaurant, bar, and a public easement through the hotel lobby connecting to a pedestrian way to the surrounding area. The Transit Plaza provided exit/access for the subway, outdoor use of tables and chairs, amphitheater seating, and occasional entertainment programs, fairs and informal performances by free-lancers. Directly east of 1 Cambridge Center was an urban park, "Galaxy at Murphy Park". Also, Boston Properties constructed an elevator-accessible 1-acre public park on the roof of a parking garage. (Note: The garage roof was subsequently modified.)

"Galaxy at Murphy Park"
The eastern gateway to the Kendall Square area at the intersection of Main Street and Broadway, was a triangular site used to construct "Galaxy at Murphy Park". Galaxy was conceived through the successful collaborative efforts of the CRA and the MIT Center for Advanced Visual Studies.

The CRA considered Galaxy to be one of the most attractive features of Cambridge Center.

The centerpiece of Galaxy was an environmental structure which featured a 5-foot-in-diameter "earthsphere" placed in a fountain. Water spray - during the warm months - , or steam - during the cold months - enveloped the sphere to create the appearance of "floating" on clouds. Surrounding the fountain were 12" moon-globes which were perforated in individual patterns. At nighttime, the globes were illuminated from within and its shadows cast light and patterns on the pavement around the globes; and when steam from the earthsphere passed over the globes, rays of light were visible coming through the perforations. Surrounding the fountain were benches for sitting; two rows of trees and shrubs; and grassy open spaces.

Boston Properties was responsible for operating, maintaining and repairing "Galaxy".

Urban Initiatives Project 1989
Urban Initiatives Project 1989

Urban Initiatives Project 1989

National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials (NAHRO)
In 1990, NAHRO's Annual Agency Awards of Excellence in Housing and Community Development chose the Kendall Station Urban Initiatives Project for its Administrative Innovation Award. "The Kendall Square Project showed excellent coordination of public and private funding, as well as excellent planning and team work by three major agencies over the 10-year development period. A joint development carried out among two public agencies, the CRA and the MBTA, and a private developer, Boston Properties".

Summary
Although the project was complex, the objectives of the Kendall Station Urban Initiatives Project were achieved:

• The MBTA modernized and expanded the Kendall Station by relocating station entrances, lengthening the station platforms, and renovating the station's interiors; and constructed a new traction power substation to replace the old, outmoded one.

• Boston Properties marketing operations attracted qualified competent companies to locate within the Urban Initiatives Project area, resulting in the construction of 1.1-million square feet of mixed-used development, including two 12- to 13- story retail, office buildings; a 13-story office building constructed on air rights over the MBTA traction power substation; a 25-story hotel; a 4-story retail, office building; and a 863-car garage with a one-acre open space roof–top garden.

• The CRA constructed public improvements throughout the area: streets and sidewalks, landscaping, Transit Plaza, Galaxy park, and pedestrian walkways.

• UMTA provided the critical financing the MBTA needed to reschedule and upgrade its Kendall Station facilities. UMTA considered the Kendall Station Project to be a successful Urban Initiatives Project because it attracted private investments to the Cambridge urban area, and "a model for other cities on the positive impact that transit accessibility can have on community development".

• The joint public-private cooperative effort helped to create an environment that supported Boston Properties' marketing operations and provided a jump-start to generate momentum to develop Parcel 4.

In 1979, when the MBTA submitted its application for Kendall Station designation as an Urban Initiatives Project, the CRA's expectations were that the Cambridge Center Project would be completed in about ten years and produce 1.7-million square feet of mixed-use development and generate $200-million of private investments. Thirty years later, the Cambridge Center Project is in its last phase, and upon completion is projected to have produced 3-million square feet of mixed-uses, and generated about $1-billion of private investments, $15-million of property tax revenues and about 6,000 jobs.

The joint public-private team enterprise in the successful redevelopment of Parcel 4 was a factor in the real estate development community's apparent re-evaluation of its skepticism about the development climate in the City of Cambridge. Starting in the 1980's, private investments were made to develop the rest of the Cambridge Center Project, and subsequently a flood of development occurred in the East Cambridge industrial area.

END

P.S.: Robert F. Rowland was the CRA Executive Director in the 1970's when planning to integrate the CRA's and MBTA's urban redevelopment operations in the Kendall Square Urban Renewal Project were initiated, and which resulted in the designation of the Kendall Station as an Urban Initiatives Project.

Comments?


Thad J. Tercyak Professional Resume
1610 N Pebble Beach Blvd., Sun City Center, FL 33573; Phone (813) 633-5746 (Nov-May)
108 Alden Village Ct., Cary, NC 27519; Phone (919) 460-4526 (June-Oct)
E-Mail: tedtercyak AT cs DOT com

Professional Employment
Cambridge Redevelopment Authority: Associate Director, 1968-1990.
Boston Redevelopment Authority: Project Director, Washington Park and South End urban renewal projects; 1961-1968.
Cuyahoga County Planning Authority (Cleveland, Ohio): Economist, 1957-1960.
Connecticut Development Commission (Adams, Howard & Greeley, City Planning Consultants): Economist, 1956-1957.

Academic
University of Pittsburgh: Master's Degree, Public Administration, 1961.
University of Connecticut: Master's Degree, Economics, 1956.
Boston University Metropolitan College: Part-time Instructor, Urban Renewal, 1975-6.

Publications

Cambridge Civic Journal:
"Kendall Square Urban Renewal Project: Six Pivotal Episodes"; June, 2013.
"Kendall Square Urban Renewal Project, Initial Years, 1963 to 1982"; July, 2012.

Urban Land Institute:
"Joint Development at Kendall Square"; April, 1991.
"Marketing Public Land"; February, 1986.
"Cambridge Center Project Design"; April, 1985.
"Panel Revisits: Cambridge Center: Downtown Redevelopment"; February, 1985.

Journal of Housing:
"Project Design: A Cooperative Effort"; September/October, 1984.
"Kendall Square: An Urban Renewal Success"; September/October, 1982.

Urban Land Institute (ULI) , Advisory Services Panelist:
An Evaluation of the Development Potential and Revitalization Strategy for the Silver Triangle Site, Downtown Silver Spring, Maryland, 1992.
An Evaluation of Kennedy and LaGuardia Airport Access for the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, the Metropolitan Transportation Authority and the City of New York, 1991

Professional Resume, summary
Mr. Tercyak's professional background includes Master's degrees in Economics and Public Administration; 22 years as Associate Director of the Cambridge Redevelopment Authority; 7 years as project director of the Boston Redevelopment Authority's Washington Park and South End urban renewal projects; 5 years as an economist with city and county planning agencies; and Urban Land Institute advisory services panelist evaluating potential development projects for the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, and for downtown Silver Spring, Maryland. Several articles published in the Cambridge Civic Journal, Urban Land Institute Magazine and Journal of Housing. Part-time instructor, Community Development, Boston University Metropolitan College.

Hello Recycling & Composting Neighbors! - February-March 2014

recycling symbol

We Heart You – and Reducing Waste!
Kids Recycling Tour During February Vacation, 2/20
North Cambridge: New Drop-off for Food Scraps
Donate & Recycle Stuff!
Check Out Our Google Maps: Take it Back & Donate Your Stuff
Batteries, Bulbs & Other Haz Waste, Oh My!

We Heart You – and Reducing Waste!

Love is in the air and we love how fantastic you are. J We’re getting closer to the City’s goal is to reduce trash 30% from 2008 levels by 2020, or 16 lbs of trash per household per week. In 2013, Cambridge households generated 1.3% less trash than 2012, or 18.3 pounds of trash per week per household (15,724 tons of trash). Long term, our goal is to hit 5 lbs/week by 2050. Gotta love the good ‘ol “3 Rs”: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, and in that order. But let’s add 3 more and make it the “6 Rs”: Repair, Rot (Compost), and Rethink. Visit our Get Rid of It Right page with info on donating and recycling just about anything. Together, we can protect the climate, save the City money, feel good and conserve resources for our kids. Please share the love! Tell your neighbors, friends and family in Cambridge about this eNewsletter, thank those who make recycling happen at your building: your maintenance manager, property manager, custodian, or neighbor, or you!

Kids Recycling Tour During February Vacation, 2/20

Kids - see where your recycling goes! Children, accompanied by a parent, are invited to visit Casella Recycling in Charlestown for a morning tour. We’ll be in the Education Room for a "virtual tour" to see how your recycling gets separated and prepared for markets. We’ll meet at DPW, 147 Hampshire St, at 8:30 SHARP and carpool. The tour will last about 2 hours. The presentation will be best for first graders and up. Please, no infants and no strollers. Participants will need to walk a flight of stairs to get to the education room. To RSVP please email recycle@cambridgema.gov, and tell us how many are in your group, their ages, if you can drive, and how many passengers you can take.

North Cambridge: New Drop-off for Food Scraps

Beginning February 20 through May 2 2014, DPW is excited to announce a new food scraps drop-off for Cambridge residents at St. Peters Field parking lot off of Sherman St. (green arrow on map). This is a pilot program in partnership with the Human Services Dept – please thank them! Just know the combo lock (code 4800) to open the toters. Thanks for always replacing the lock afterward and helping to keep the area clean and the food scraps toters free from trash. For more info on other food scraps drop-off locations including the Recycling Center, Cambridge Community Center, and Whole Foods on Prospect St, click here.

Donate & Recycle Stuff!

Clothing, Textiles & Household Goods
Visit our Donate Your Stuff map of donation spots. Good stuff is reused, damaged stuff is recycled. You can donate clothes that are torn, stained, broken or missing something, to Goodwill, Red Cross, Salvation Army, Got Books/Clothes, and Planet Aid. They take clothing, shoes, belts, purses, hats, linens, stuffed animals, and fabric scraps. Just no dirty rags, nothing wet, nothing soiled, no carpets, no rugs, and no mildewed items.

Electronics
Local retailers take back electronics like Best Buy, Staples, RadioShack, and Apple! See our Take It Back map that shows businesses that take back products and packaging for recycling, composting, or reuse. Check the City’s recycling website too. Or, visit IfixIt.Com for free step-by-step repair guides with photos for phones, computers, music players, cameras, appliances and cars.

Furniture
Plan ahead and call a local organization to arrange a free pickup of your good-condition furniture. Your donation benefits people in need! Or, post on Craig’s List or Freecycle.

Books
Bring to a local retailer like Rodney’s Bookstore, Raven Books, Lorem Ipsum (blue bins on map) or the Recycling Center.

Check Out Our Google Maps: Take it Back & Donate Your Stuff

To make it reducing waste even easier, we’ve put together two google maps that you are sure to find useful:

Take it Back Map
Go to tinyurl.com/TakeBackEPR to find 30+ retailers that take back products & packaging for recycling, composting and reuse! [YELLOW pins: food, food products, or packaging; BLUE: household items, books, or eyeglasses, PURPLE: clothes or shoes, PINK: electronics, fluorescent bulbs, or household batteries; RED: bikes and car parts]

Donate Your Stuff
tinyurl.com/DonateMap includes 20+ clothing drop boxes, 12+ consignment/thrift stores, 10+ second-hand furniture/household good stores. [BLUE pins: Clothing Donation Drop Boxes; RED: Thrift/Consignment Shops; GREEN: Second-Hand Stores with Household Goods/Furniture; YELLOW: Accept Good Condition Furniture Dropped Off]

Feel free to print and post the attached flyer to raise awareness about these great resources. Or, ask your favorite local business to post on their bulletin board, and thanks!

Batteries, Bulbs & Other Haz Waste, Oh My!

Batteries
Bring rechargeable batteries to Staples, Verizon Wireless, RadioShack, and the Recycling Center (no alkaline batteries). Visit our Take It Back map that shows locations.

Fluorescent Bulbs
Not accepted with curbside recycling. There are several options to recycle CFLs and long tubes, including at the Recycling Center and at local hardware stores. Clean up broken bulbs, then bring in a plastic bag. Do not tape long tubes together and bring in a cardboard box.

Medications
Check out several safe disposal options, including at a permanent drop box at the Police Dept at 125 Sixth Street. Place medicine (no liquids) in a sealed plastic bag and drop-off 24/7 in the lobby, near the Records Unit. They accept, prescription & over-the-counter medications, medication samples, vitamins, veterinary medications, and narcotics.

Syringes/Needles
Collect used needles and syringes in a puncture-proof container (detergent bottles, coffee cans) and seal with tape. Bring to the ground floor kiosk at the Health Center at 119 Windsor St. No loose needles, no medications and no other medical supplies. Residents may request sharps containers at the Health Center.

Chemicals, Car Tires, Paints, Auto Fluids
Check product label to determine if it is household hazardous waste. Products that say Danger or Poison are highly toxic, corrosive or extremely flammable. Products that say Warning or Caution are moderately or slightly toxic. The City’s next Household Hazardous Waste collection is May 3 from 9am-1pm, at Parking Lot on Field Street at Fern Street by Danehy Park. Cambridge residents only. You must bring proof of residency. Property Managers: if you plan to bring more than 25 pounds or 25 gallons from a Cambridge residential building or if you have no proof of residency, please email recycle@cambridgema.gov at least 2 weeks before the scheduled collection.


  • Missed recycling or trash?  Please use iReport or call DPW at 617-349-4800 no later than 12 noon the day after collection to make a request. During winter, clear snow to curb so that collection crews can access your trash barrels and recycling toters and they are not behind snow banks. For more click here. Thank you!
  • Request for toters, brochures, stickers or posters? Use our online form.
  • "Like" the Cambridge DPW on Facebook.
  • Please note that during holidays weeks, trash, recycling and yard waste collection is delayed one day. Check the 2014 collection schedule online for full details.

Take the 50% recycling pledge today at www.cambridgema.gov/recycle and get a free sticker!
Recycle More. Trash Less.

Cambridge InsideOut Episode 41 - News and Views (Part 1).

This episode was broadcast on March 4, 2014 at 5:30pm. Co-hosts are Susana Segat and Robert Winters. The main topics we touched on were (1) Democratic caucuses and statewide elections, (2) an update on the options for the Foundry Building, and (3) the possibility of public restrooms for people who use the Cambridge Common (which will soon see significant improvements). [On YouTube]

Cambridge InsideOut Episode 42 - News and Views (Part 2)

Broadcast March 4, 2014 at 6:00pm. Co-hosts are Susana Segat and Robert Winters. Topics include the disposition of the Sullivan Courthouse, naming rights for T stations, School Committee policy change regarding middle school mathematics, the MIT report on the need for graduate student housing, and the promise of the opening of H-Mart soon in Central Square. [On YouTube]

Looking Back - City Council subcommittees from the City's 1938 Annual Report

Feb 12 - The Cambridge City Council subcommittees for 2014-2015 were announced yesterday. The main change was a consolidation of the existing standing committees to reduce their number from 17 to 11. Quorums for each committee were also established. The hope is that the work of each committee will now be more substantial and productive. One thing that should be noted is that the number and focus of City Council committees has not been constant over the years. For a little taste of history, here is the list of the 23 standing City Council subcommittees from the City's 1938 Annual Report (published 75 years ago):

Americanization and Education

Bonds

City Engineering

City Planning

Claims

Elections and Printing

Finance

Health

Industrial Development

Legislative Matters

Licenses

Military Affairs

Ordinances

Parks and Cemeteries

Public Celebrations

Public Property and Public Institutions

Public Safety

Public Service

Roads and Bridges

Rules and Orders

Soldier's Aid

Water Supply

Wires and Lamps


City Council subcommittees for 2014-2015

Committee Members Staff
Ordinance
(0 meetings, 1 scheduled)
Benzan (Co-Chair), Carlone (Co-Chair), Cheung, Kelley, Mazen, McGovern, Simmons, Toomey
(committee of the whole - mayor ex-officio, quorum 3)
Lopez
Crane
Finance
(0 meetings, 0 scheduled)
McGovern (Chair), Benzan, Carlone, Cheung, Kelley, Mazen, Simmons, Toomey
(committee of the whole - mayor ex-officio, quorum 3)
Lopez
Crane
Government Operations, Rules, and Claims
(0 meetings, 0 scheduled)
Toomey (Chair), Cheung, Mazen, McGovern, Simmons
(5 members, quorum 2)
Lopez
Cosgrove
Housing
(0 meetings, 0 scheduled)
Simmons (Chair), Benzan, Kelley, Mazen, McGovern
(4 members, quorum 2)
Crane
Economic Development and University Relations
(0 meetings, 0 scheduled)
Benzan (Co-Chair), Simmons (Co-Chair), Carlone, Mazen, McGovern
(5 members, quorum 2)
Crane
Human Services & Veterans
(0 meetings, 0 scheduled)
McGovern (Chair), Benzan, Kelley, Mazen
(4 members, quorum 2)
Crane
Health & Environment
(0 meetings, 0 scheduled)
Cheung (Chair), Carlone, Mazen, McGovern
(4 members, quorum 2)
Lopez
Neighborhood and Long Term Planning,
Public Facilities, Art, and Celebrations

(0 meetings, 0 scheduled)
Mazen (Chair), Benzan, Carlone, Toomey
(4 members, quorum 2)
Crane
Transportation & Public Utilities (0 meetings, 0 scheduled) Carlone (Chair), Benzan, Cheung, Kelley
(4 members, quorum 2)
Lopez
Civic Unity
(0 meetings, 0 scheduled)
Simmons (Chair), Benzan, Cheung, McGovern
(4 members, quorum 2)
Crane
Public Safety
(0 meetings, 0 scheduled)
Kelley (Chair), Carlone, Simmons, Toomey
(4 members, quorum 2)
Lopez

Tues, March 11 - Tonight's edition of Cambridge InsideOut on CCTV will take a look at the "No License" movement that began in Cambridge during the late 1800s and which spawned the era of civic reform in the city. We'll also look at a variety of other aspects of the history of our very historic city. Our guest will be Gavin Kleespies, Executive Director of the Cambridge Historical Society. We'll be doing our usual back-to-back programs at 5:30pm and 6:00pm hosted by Susana Segat and Robert Winters.


Members Sought for Council on Aging Board

The Cambridge Council on Aging is seeking interested individuals to serve on its board and help advocate for important senior issues.

The purpose of the board is to promote and encourage existing and new services and activities intended to enhance and improve the quality of life of older persons in the city; advise the City Manager on all matters pertaining to the welfare of elderly Cambridge citizens; and advocate for Cambridge elderly residents. Board members also support Council on Aging/ Senior Center staff with community outreach for services, benefits, activities and programs available to them. Applicants must be age 60 or older and a Cambridge resident.

Interested applicants should submit a letter describing any applicable experience by Friday, March 14, 2014 to:

Richard C. Rossi, City Manager
City of Cambridge
795 Massachusetts Avenue
Cambridge, MA 02139

Letters can also be faxed to 617-349-4307 or sent via e-mail to: citymanager@cambridgema.gov.

For more information, please contact Susan Pacheco, Executive Director of the Council on Aging at 617-349-6220 or at spacheco@cambridgema.gov.


Central Square Library Branch to Reopen March 10

The Cambridge Public Library is pleased to announce that the Central Square Branch will reopen Monday, Mar. 10. In celebration of the grand reopening, the Central Square Branch is hosting a week of events to welcome back our patrons!

Mon, Mar 10: Our grand reopening! Stop by to say hello, catch up with your neighbors and fill up a free red CPL bag with new, exciting titles.

Wed, Mar 12: Meet Branch Manager, Jason Yee, from 2-3 p.m. and learn what's new at the Branch!

Fri, Mar 14: Fine amnesty for any overdue materials returned to the Central Square Branch and free replacement cards!

During the week of Mar 10-14, drop by any morning between 10-11am and join us for coffee.

The Central Square Branch closed for the installation of a new elevator, the final stage of a series of major improvements made by the City of Cambridge to benefit the Branch and its users within the last few years. Projects included a new HVAC system, significant electrical upgrades and an expansion of the Literacy Center to twice its original size. Additionally, all of the computers in the Tech Center were upgraded and the Center will reopen with expanded evening hours.


Carl BarronVery Sad News: Carl Barron has passed away

Carl Barron, member of the Central Square Advisory Committee and longtime President of the Central Square Business Association, passed away on Saturday (Feb 15) at the age of 97. [Note on centralsquare.com][Boston Globe Obituary]

Service: Thursday, Feb 20 at 10:00am, Beth El Temple Center, 2 Concord Ave., Belmont. Burial will follow at Adath Jeshurun Cemetery, Grove St., W. Roxbury.
Memorial observance will be at the Mount Auburn Hospital on Thursday from 5-8pm and on Friday from 5-7pm. In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to the Barron Center for Mens Health, c/o Mount Auburn Hospital, Development Office, 330 Mount Auburn St., Cambridge, MA 02138.

Feb 26 - Remembering Carl Barron, a Central Square icon (by Erin Baldassari, Cambridge Chronicle)


2014 City of Cambridge Scholarship Applications Now Available

Applications for the 2014 City of Cambridge Scholarship are now being accepted. The City Scholarship fund provides financial assistance to Cambridge residents who wish to pursue post secondary education. Through this program, the City has awarded thousands of dollars to college-bound high school seniors and others who want to pursue higher education.

Scholarships are possible thanks to the generosity of Cambridge residents, businesses and taxpayers who support the annual fund. In 2013, the City awarded 60 scholarships of $2,500 each. With increasing costs of higher education and continued economic uncertainty, the scholarships help ease financial burdens for recipients.

Applications may be obtained at Cambridge Public Schools, all Cambridge Public Library branches and at Cambridge City Hall.  Interested residents may also download the application from the City’s Website, www.cambridgema.gov, under the useful links section at the bottom. The deadline for the FY14 scholarship application, and all supporting documentation is March 10, 2014.

Eligibility Requirements:

The City of Cambridge Scholarship fund is administered by the Finance Department. A Scholarship Committee comprised of six Cambridge residents who are appointed by the City Manager, reviews and ranks each application. Committee members do not see the name of the applicant to ensure a completely fair review process. Each application is evaluated and ranked based on academic achievement, financial need, community & extracurricular activities and special circumstances.

Checks made payable to the City of Cambridge Scholarship Fund may be mailed to: Cambridge Scholarship Fund, City of Cambridge, P.O. Box 2005, Cambridge, MA 02139 or dropped off in person at the Finance Department Cashier’s window during regular business hours.  Contribution Forms  and City of Cambridge Scholarship Applications can be downloaded from the City’s website, www.cambridgema.gov under Quick Links.

For more information, contact Irene Kostakis at 617-349-4220 or ikostakis@cambridgema.gov.


Information Security Begins with You!Free Public Document Shredding, Saturday, March 8, 10am-2pm

Central Square Post Office, 770 Massachusetts Ave., Cambridge

The Cambridge Consumers’ Council and the Public Works Department will be hosting a Cambridge Shred Day Event snow or shine in collaboration with Central Square Post Office, the Office of the Attorney General, the Executive Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulations. Dispose of important documents safely.

Information will also be available to consumers on tips to avoid identity theft, fraud and scams and the City’s recycling and composting programs. For more information, contact: Laura M. Nichols at 617.349.6150 or consumer@cambridgema.gov.


Cambridge councillor eyes bid for lieutenant governor (Boston.com, Political Intelligence)

Cambridge city councillor Leland Cheung is planning to announce a bid for the state’s lieutenant governorship, advisers said Tuesday.

Feb 8, 2014 - Mass. Senate President Murray Won’t Seek Re-Election (CBS Boston)


Hubway to Pilot Year-Round Program in Cambridge
Cambridge-based Hubway Stations to Remain Available throughout Winter

Hubway, the metro-Boston area’s public bike share system, will continue to be available to riders throughout winter at almost all Cambridge-based stations. While Hubway has always operated on a seasonal basis in its two and a half year history, this year the City of Cambridge is piloting a plan to provide year-round Hubway service.

We are pleased at the opportunity to pilot Hubway service year-round,” said Cambridge City Manager Richard C. Rossi. “We’re committed to supporting sustainable transportation options, and we are excited to continue the program this winter season. We do ask for everyone to use care when riding under winter conditions and also request your patience and understanding as we work with whatever nature brings us in terms of weather.”

Almost all stations in Cambridge will remain operational throughout the winter, though the station at Lafayette Square/Main Street will be removed from the street for the season. The Lechmere station will be moved to the sidewalk just east of Lechmere Station. All station updates will be posted on the station map at www.thehubway.com/stations, www.hubwaytracker.com, and on the Spotcycle app for smart phones, www.spotcycle.net. Annual members may continue to use the Cambridge stations during the season at no additional cost. 24-hour, 3-day passes and monthly passes will be available for purchase as usual.

As part of the pilot program, snow removal will become part of the daily responsibilities of the Hubway field team. The team, coordinated by Hubway’s dispatch office, is on the street from 6am–10pm every day, and is stocked with equipment to keep stations clear of snow and ice.

Users should bear in mind that the regular seasonal closing of stations in Boston, Brookline and Somerville city/town limits will begin as early as Monday, Nov. 18. Most stations will remain open through Wednesday, Nov. 27. Station closures will be posted in advance on Hubway’s website at www.thehubway.com/news, on Twitter at www.twitter.com/hubway and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/Hubway.

During extreme inclement weather conditions, Hubway may temporarily close the system and public announcements will be made via social media and the Hubway website. Station alerts will also be emailed to annual and monthly Hubway members, and all riders can consult the Spotcycle app to learn whether or not bicycles are available. In the event of a system closing, riders will be able to return bikes to all stations securely, but will not be able to check bikes out.

To prepare for cold-weather bicycling, there are a number of things riders should keep in mind:

Find out more about the Hubway system, extensions, station outages/closures at www.thehubway.com, on Twitter at www.twitter.com/hubway, and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/Hubway.


Nominations Welcomed for Cambridge Preservation Awards!

9 Walnut Ave.The Cambridge Historical Commission is seeking nominations for this year’s Preservation Awards program. Nominations, for projects completed between January and December 2013, are due at the Commission no later than noon on Friday, February 28, 2014. More information on the program is available at the Cambridge Historical Commission office at 831 Massachusetts Avenue, online at www2.cambridgema.gov/Historic/awards.html, or by calling (617)349-4683.

Preservation AwadsResidents and property owners, neighbors and visitors, architects and contractors are invited to nominate projects that contribute to the preservation of Cambridge’s historic character and its built environment. Projects may involve restoration, rehabilitation, adaptive use, neighborhood conservation, landscape preservation, archaeology, or preservation education, and can include private homes, institutional buildings, or commercial and industrial properties. Since 1997, the Cambridge Historical Commission has annually celebrated outstanding contributions to historic preservation throughout the city. Nominating a project is an excellent way to recognize the good stewardship of property owners and the hard work of fine craftsmen and building professionals. An awards reception will take place in May during Preservation Month.

SNOCHI Festival in Central Square

Snowboard

House of Vans Snow Board Park in front of The Middle East!

Free February School Vacation Events in Central Square for Kids and Teens!

The Central Square Cultural District (C2CD) kicks off its 1st Winter Festival with a pop-up House of Vans (HOV) Snow Board Park in front of the Middle East that will shred your mind. Central Square’s “Snochi Festival” features treats for kids of all ages during February School Vacation week.

House of Vans Special Events:

2/18-2/20: HOV Musical Showcase at the Middle East – Lucky House of Vans fans scooped up free tickets in about ½ an hour to see: ANAMANAGUCHI * BATHS * EARL SWEATSHIRT * XXYYXX * CITIES AVIV * TITLE FIGHT * METZ * DARK BLUE

2/18 & 2/20 at 8:00pm: Free Outdoor Movie Screenings: Vans' "20 Years Off The Wall On The Snow" documentary.

2/19 from 6pm to 9pm: Free Pop-up Outdoor Snow Board Park and Demos with New England's best snowboarders.
House of Vans and Snowboy Productions are creating a one-of-a-kind, pop-up snowboard park in front of the Middle East. For one night only New England's best snowboarders will do demos from 6-9pm including Vans team rider Nick “Pooch” Poohachoff.

February School Vacation Events:

Neighborhood Open House!
Date: Tuesday, February 18, 2014
Time: 5:00pm-7:00pm
Where: Middle East -- Corner Restaurant
Join us for hot chocolate, music and information about local enrichment programs for Cambridge youth and their families. Programs include an Free, On-going, Summer, Afterschool, and Discounted Programs for Cambridge Residents! Win a pair of Vans in our free raffle!

STEAM IT UP During February School Vacation with FREE Activities for Teens from 12 to 17!
Date: Wednesday, February 19, 2014
Time: 1:00pm-3:00pm
Where: Middle East Downstairs
Free raffle for prizes!
Featuring: DJ’s and Demo’s! Snow boarding math and games! Snowmaking! And hands-on art activities with House of Vans / Danger Awesome! / Young People’s Project/ MMMMaven / & Cambridge Science Festival!

PLEASE NOTE: ROAD CLOSURE -- Brookline Street Closure.
Brookline Street will be closed between Green Street and Massachusetts Avenue from 7am on February 18, 2014 to 3pm on February 20, 2014. Vehicles will be detoured to Franklin St to Sidney St to Green St to Landsdowne St and back to Mass Ave. Police Officers will be assigned at key intersections to reduce any delays and ensure safety on the detour route.

This is event is graciously sponsored by House of Vans, FYF, Snowboy Productions, the Middle East, the Central Square Business Association, The Central Square Cultural District, The City of Cambridge, Cambridge Arts Council, MMMMaven, Danger Awesome! Young People’s Project, and the Cambridge Police Department.

More about the House of Vans:
The HOV and FYF are bringing their pop-up music festival concept to Cambridge for the 1st time! HOV pop-ups have been set up across the globe with stops in Europe, Mexico, Asia and Canada. The HOV has stopped in Huntington Beach, CA for the Vans US Open of Surfing and, the Mohawk in Austin, TX for SXSW.


Sun, Feb 16 - The Parking Ban was lifted at 8:00am.

Sat, Feb 15 - A Cambridge Snow Emergency Parking Ban went into effect Saturday, February 15 at 5 PM. Parking is prohibited on streets signed No Parking during Snow Emergency. Towing operations will begin at 5 PM. More details, including a list of garages for parking during snow emergencies, can be found on the City's website. www.cambridgema.gov

Hello Recycling & Composting Neighbors! - February 2014

recycling symbol

Beyond Recycling: Take It to the Next Level, 2/4
Time to Recycle Phonebooks
Virtual Recycling & Trash Tour, 2/10
iReport for Missed Pickups & Snow Reminder
Two Winter Farmers Markets in Cambridge!
New Appointments to the City’s Recycling Committee

Beyond Recycling: Take It to the Next Level, 2/4

Join us for a Mid-Cambridge Neighborhood Conversation on Tuesday, February 4 at 7:00pm at Dwelltime, 364 Broadway. Cambridge Recycling Director, Ms. Randi Mail, will lead a lively discussion of steps we can take that go beyond normal recycling practices. Topics include zero waste solutions for individuals and benefits of reuse. We will look at personal choices and City initiatives that can significantly reduce our carbon footprint. This is the first in a series of "Conversations About Living in Mid-Cambridge," informal evening get togethers which will begin with a brief talk followed by an opportunity for small and large group conversations on a topic. For more info contact john_pitkin@earthlink.net.

Time to Recycle Phonebooks

It’s the new year so please make sure to recycle extra phonebooks in the curbside program. Remove plastic bags or plastic wrap. If you haven’t already done so, register for FREE at www.catalogchoice.org to create an account and choose to opt out of mail from over 4000 companies. For example, you can stop receiving unwanted phone books, catalogs, coupons, credit card offers, donation requests, and other junk mail that arrive daily and clutter your home or office. Companies on Catalog Choice will honor opt-out requests, so add them to “your choices”. Thousands of Cambridge residents are signed up for this service and have opted out of over 25,000 different unwanted mailings!

Virtual Recycling & Trash Tour, 2/10

Members of the public are invited to attend a virtual recycling & trash tour on Monday, February 10 at 6pm at Public Works at 147 Hampshire St in the main conference room. Cambridge Recycling Director, Ms. Randi Mail, will show a video, share pictures and talk about the recycling process, what happens to our trash, composting initiatives, and ways to reduce waste.  Adults and children welcome. Please RSVP to recycle@cambridgema.gov.

iReport for Missed Pickups & Snow Reminder

If your recycling, trash, or yard waste was missed, use iReport, the city’s online and mobile app! Please submit your request no later than 12 noon the day after collection on iReport, or call DPW at 617-349-4800. Please keep your material at the curb. iReport also lets you report potholes, graffiti, unshovelled sidewalks, rodent sightings, and defective streetlights.

During winter, clear snow to curb so that collection crews can access your trash barrels and recycling toters and they are not behind snow banks. For more click here. Thank you!

Two Winter Farmers Markets in Cambridge!

This winter, be sure to check out two winter farmers markets in Cambridge:

New Appointments to the City’s Recycling Committee

The City recently appointed new members to the Recycling Advisory Committee for a 3-year term. Thanks to Jan Dillon-Schaub, Debby Galef, Rob Gogan, and Laura Nichols members returning to serve again and welcome to Keith Cialino, Sharah Connor, Debby Knight, Janet Mosley, Michael Orr, Meera Singh, Joanna Vanden, and Mary Verhage, new members. Also many thanks to outgoing members: Michael Arnott, Luis Baigiorria, Liza Casella, Bruce Comen, Mike Cosgrove, Claire Davies, George Delegas, Jarrod Jones, Juliana Lyman, Adam Mitchell, Judy Nathans, Robert Winters, and Jason Zogg.

The RAC was established in the City’s Mandatory Recycling Ordinance passed in March 1991 and has been a tremendous force in growing our programs and volunteering to make our program the success that it is. The RAC provides advice, assistance and recommendations to the DPW Commissioner regarding the City’s recycling, toxics reduction and waste prevention programs as well as the implementation of strategies to meet the goals in the MA Solid Waste Master Plan, Pathway to Zero Waste, and the City’s Climate Protection Plan. For more info, click here.


  • Missed recycling or trash?  Please use iReport or call DPW at 617-349-4800 no later than 12 noon the day after collection to make a request. During winter, clear snow to curb so that collection crews can access your trash barrels and recycling toters and they are not behind snow banks. For more click here. Thank you!
  • Request for toters, brochures, stickers or posters? Use our online form.
  • "Like" the Cambridge DPW on Facebook.
  • Please note that during holidays weeks, trash, recycling and yard waste collection is delayed one day. Check the 2014 collection schedule online for full details.

Take the 50% recycling pledge today at www.cambridgema.gov/recycle and get a free sticker!
Recycle More. Trash Less.

Temporary MWRA Water Usage in Cambridge

Starting in mid-September, Cambridge drinking water will be supplemented with Massachusetts Water Resources Authority (MWRA) water. This is a direct result of the Cambridge Water Department coordinating and supporting two MWRA related projects:

MWRA pipe line upgrade in Waltham
For more information on this project, visit: www.mwra.com/01news/2013/051313-7022-waltham-watertown.html

Sewer Separation Project in Cambridge on Huron Avenue
For more information on this project, visit www.cambridgema.gov/theworks/cityprojects.aspx

This water supply configuration will continue for about four months (i.e. September through January). As the work schedule becomes more definitive, we will better define the specific timeline for this water supply scenario.

We do not anticipate any water quality or quantity issues during this period since the water qualities are similar and we have very successfully used the MWRA water supply in the past. Information about the MWRA water quality can be found at www.mwra.com

For updates check the Cambridge Water Dept. webpage: http://www.cambridgema.gov/Water.aspx; follow us on twitter: https://twitter.com/CambWaterDept; or if you have any specific questions or concerns, please call Edward Dowling at 617-349-4780.


East Campus/Kendall gateway study begins (MIT News)

Urban design team selected; MIT and Cambridge community meetings set

Community meetings
“A critical component of the work ahead will be to collect valuable input from the MIT and Cambridge communities,” said Executive Vice President and Treasurer Israel Ruiz, who was actively engaged in MIT’s three-year Kendall Square rezoning process, and has remained involved in the exploration of Kendall Square and East Campus design concepts. “I’m delighted that an undergraduate student and a graduate student are serving on the steering committee that is guiding the East Campus/Kendall gateway study.”

Three MIT community forums are planned to gather feedback on the process, goals, planning principles, and early concepts of the urban design effort. In a similar fashion, three Cambridge community forums will also be held. The meetings will each provide the most up-to-date information at the time:

MIT community forums
Thurs, Nov 7, 5:30 to 7pm  (Room 3-270)
Wed, Dec 11, 5:30 to 7pm  (Room 32-155)
Wed, Feb 12, 5:30 to 7:30pm  (MIT, E25-111) - [date and time changed from original]

Cambridge community forums
Thurs, Nov 14, 5:30 to 7pm  (Room 4-153)
Thurs, Dec 12, 5:30 to 7pm  (Room 56-154)
Wed, Feb 12, 5:30 to 7:30pm  (MIT, E25-111) - [date and time changed from original]


A Snow Emergency Parking Ban went into effect on Wednesday, February 5th at 7:00am. For more information, please visit the City's website, http://www.cambridgema.gov or call 617-349-4700 or 4800. Beginning at 7:00am, streets that are signed "No Parking during a Snow Emergency" will be ticketed and towed until the ban is lifted. Please check to ensure that your vehicle is not parked on a restricted street. Any power outages should be reported directly to NSTAR at 800-592-2000.

The ban was lifted at 5:00pm on Feb 5.


2014 Cambridge Resident Parking Permits Available

Resident Permit Photo - 20142014 Resident Parking Permits are now available from the City of Cambridge Traffic, Parking and Transportation Department.  Although current permits do not expire until January 31, 2014, residents are encouraged to renew early to avoid delays.

Residents with an active 2013 residential parking permit can use the Traffic Department’s newly expanded online application to renew.  Visit www.cambridgema.gov/traffic , go to Current Happenings, click on 2014 Resident Parking Permit Online Application.

The winning entry from the 2014 resident permit photo contest was “Ladder 1” by Cambridge resident Mark Hornbuckle.  This photo is featured on the 2014 resident parking permit. The City is again offering the opportunity for residents to make a voluntary contribution.  Proceeds will be allocated to the City’s climate change initiatives.  For more information, call 617-349-4700 or visit: www.cambridgema.gov/traffic

Photo: The winning entry from the 2014 resident permit photo contest was “Ladder 1” by Cambridge resident Mark Hornbuckle.


Cambridge Human Rights Commission Vacancy

Cambridge City Manager Richard C. Rossi is seeking persons interested in serving on the Cambridge Human Rights Commission (CHRC). Made up of 11 members who serve three-year terms, the CHRC meets on the first Thursday of every month at 6pm. The Commission seeks Cambridge residents representing the diversity of Cambridge.

Commissioners are expected to work with other members of the Commission and staff to fulfill the goals and objectives of the Cambridge Human Rights Commission Ordinance (CMC Chapter 2.76). Commissioners are expected to attend monthly meetings, participate in subcommittees on outreach and public education, and work with Commission staff on the investigation, mediation and resolution of complaints filed with the Commission which allege discrimination in housing, public accommodation, employment or education based upon race, color, sex, age, religious creed, disability, national origin or ancestry, sexual orientation, gender, marital status, family status, military status or source of income.

For more information, contact Nancy Schlacter, Cambridge Human Rights Commission, at 617-349-4396 or nschlacter@cambridgema.gov. Letters of interest, including resume and/or applicable experience, can be sent via mail, fax or e-mail by Friday, February 7, 2014 to:

Richard C. Rossi, City Manager
City of Cambridge
795 Massachusetts Avenue
Cambridge, MA 02139

Fax 617-349-4307
citymanager@cambridgema.gov


Tues, Feb 4 - Susana Segat and I will not be doing our weekly Cambridge InsideOut show this week due to one of the hosts (me) being out with the flu. While I do not recommend influenza as a weight loss program, I will say that I have lost 8½ pounds in two days. We plan to be back next week.

We are now in the process of lining up guests for the show. If you are interested in appearing on the show, please let me know, and I'll take it up with my TV partner Susana. - Robert Winters


Affordable Rental and Homeownership Programs Information Session - January 27

The City of Cambridge will be holding a series of free Walk-In Informational Sessions on affordable rental and homeownership programs at different locations in the coming months. The next session will be held Mon, Jan 27, from 6-8pm, at the Trolley Square Community Room, 2401 Mass. Ave. Housing personnel from the Community Development Department will be available to discuss the City’s affordable rental and homeownership programs.

For more information, call 617-349-4622.


Cambridge City Manager Seeks Applicants for Committee on Public Planting

Public PlantingCity Manager Richard C. Rossi is seeking applicants for the Committee on Public Planting.

This Committee is charged with the responsibility of promoting and improving the quality and diversity of plantings throughout all areas of Cambridge. This includes: reviewing planting plans for new public work in the city; advising the city on effective maintenance of public plantings; supporting the role of the City Arborist; and encouraging interest in public plantings in all neighborhoods.

Applicants must be Cambridge residents. Experience in horticulture desirable. Interest in urban forestry and landscape issues required.

Interested applicants should send a letter of interest and/or resume by January 31, 2014 to:

Owen O’Riordan, DPW Commissioner
Public Works Department
147 Hampshire St.
Cambridge, MA 02139

Applicants can also email their materials to theworks@cambridgema.gov.

 


Gov. Patrick breaks ground at Millennium Pharmaceuticals site in Cambridge (by Erin Baldassari, Cambridge Chronicle)

Though the article emphasizes "the vitriol from residents that sometimes accompanied conversations about the project", it must be noted that the zoning changes required for the project were unanimously approved by the City Council. The Planning Board's approval of the necessary Special Permit was also approved unanimously.


Jan 21 - Due to the Snow Emergency, the Planning Board meeting scheduled for Tues, Jan 21 will be cancelled and the items moved to Feb 11, 2014. New notices will be sent to confirm the new hearing dates.

Jan 21 - Though I'm sure our loyal fans will be heartbroken, tonight's edition of Cambridge InsideOut has been cancelled due to our being down one co-host (Susana's out of town) and, well, you really don't want to hear me just talking for an hour without a guest to liven things up. We'll be back next week alive and kicking. - Robert Winters

Jan 21 – Cambridge Snow Emergency Parking Ban goes into effect starting Tues, Jan 21 at 8:00pm. Parking is prohibited on streets signed "No Parking during Snow Emergency". Towing operations will begin at this time. A list and map of these streets is available on the Traffic Department Website under Snow - Parking & Sidewalk Enforcement.

Jan 22 - The snow emergency parking ban was lifted on Wed, Jan 22 at 7:00am.

2014 Martin Luther King Day Commemoration and Remembrance - January 20

Please join the Cambridge Peace Commission as we publicly remember and celebrate the life and work of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. on Mon, Jan 20 at Noon at St. Peter's Episcopal Church, 838 Mass. Ave. in Central Square, Cambridge.

12:00-1:45pm: Celebration of Dr. King's Life and Work for Peace, Justice and Transformation,
2:00-2:45pm: Informal Lunch and Gathering in the undercroft (basement) at St. Peter's.

In 1967, Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. described the most serious threat to American society with these words: "We must rapidly begin the shift from a thing-oriented society to a person-oriented society. When machines and computers, profit motives and property rights, are considered more important than people, the giant triplets of racism, extreme materialism and militarism are incapable of being conquered." More than 45 years later, the United States still faces these three existential challenges to our values as a nation.

The City of Cambridge will honor and remember Dr. King and his legacy of peace and justice as we gather at St. Peter's Episcopal Church to hear Dr. King’s words calling for peace, justice and transformation, as well as remarks from Rev. Larry Kim, a member of the Cambridge Peace Commission and the senior pastor of the Cambridge Community Fellowship Church in Central Square. Please join us, and add your presence and voice to efforts in Cambridge for peace and justice in the world – and right here in Cambridge.

In addition to the Peace Commission’s Commemoration and Remembrance at St. Peter's Episcopal Church, once again Many Helping Hands will sponsor volunteer activities for its Day of Service Mon, Jan 20 from 2-5pm at Cambridge City Hall (795 Mass. Ave.), the Citywide Senior Center (806 Mass. Ave.) and other sites. See more on this at:

http://manyhelpinghands365.org/mlk-day-of-service-sign-up/many-helping-hands-mlk-day-of-serivce/


It's Mayor Maher

It was a rollercoaster of a mayoral vote this morning, but the new City Council finally did get the job done. Here's a rundown (using the initials of councillors and mayoral candidates in the tally):

EVENT DB DC LC CK DM NM MM DS TT RESULT
Ballot #1 DM LC LC DS DM DS DM DS DM Maher 4, Simmons 3, Cheung 2
Ballot #2 DM LC LC LC DM LC DM DS DM Maher 4, Cheung 4, Simmons 1
Simmons switch to Maher DM LC LC LC DM LC DM DM DM Maher 5, Cheung 4
Cheung switch to Simmons DM LC DS LC DM LC DM DM DM Maher 5, Cheung 3, Simmons 1
Kelley switch to Simmons DM LC DS DS DM LC DM DM DM Maher 5, Cheung 2, Simmons 2
Carlone switch to Simmons DM DS DS DS DM LC DM DM DM Maher 5, Simmons 3, Cheung 1
Mazen switch to Simmons DM DS DS DS DM DS DM DM DM Maher 5, Simmons 4
Simmons switch to Simmons DM DS DS DS DM DS DM DS DM Simmons 5, Maher 4
Benzan switch to Simmons DS DS DS DS DM DS DM DS DM Simmons 6, Maher 3
Mazen switch to Kelley DS DS DS DS DM CK DM DS DM Simmons 5, Maher 3, Kelley 1
Carlone switch to Kelley DS CK DS DS DM CK DM DS DM Simmons 4, Maher 3, Kelley 2
Ballot #3 DM LC LC DS DM DS DM DM DM Maher 5, Cheung 2, Simmons 2
Cheung switch to Simmons DM LC DS DS DM DS DM DM DM Maher 5, Simmons 3, Cheung 1
Carlone switch to Simmons DM DS DS DS DM DS DM DM DM Maher 5, Simmons 4

It is worth noting that at the end of Ballot #3, Denise Simmons could have once again changed her vote to herself (giving her a majority) but chose not to do so - perhaps due to the belief that this would lead to just another cycle of vote changes.

After Mayor Maher took the oath of office, the City Council then proceeded to the vote for Vice Chair. Though not initially unanimous for Dennis Benzan, Denise Simmons moved that the vote be made unanimous and there was no objection.

Congratulations to Mayor David Maher and to Vice Mayor Dennis Benzan! - RW

The Mayors of Cambridge since 1893


Jan 6, 2014 - Inauguration Day

The Inauguration of the 2014-2015 Cambridge City Council will take place today at City Hall beginning at 10:00am. After the ceremonial activities and the oaths of office, there will be just two items of business - the adoption of the Rules for the 2014-2015 City Council (usually just the formal adoption of the rules in effect for the previous Council) and the Election of a Mayor. The meeting will be conducted by City Clerk Donna Lopez until a Mayor is elected. If a Mayor is not elected at the Inaugural Meeting, the most senior member of the City Council, Tim Toomey, will serve as Acting Mayor until such time as a Mayor is elected.

There is a relatively good chance that a Mayor will be elected at the Inaugural Meeting this year. The major contenders are rumored to be Leland Cheung, David Maher, and Denise Simmons. If a Mayor is elected, the City Council will then proceed to the election of its Vice Chair (customarily referred to as the Vice Mayor).

Later in the day (6:00pm), the 2014-2015 Cambridge School Committee will be inaugurated with the Mayor presiding.

Comments?

Dennis Benzan
Benzan
Dennis Carlone
Carlone
Leland Cheung
Cheung
Craig Kelley
Kelley
David Maher
Maher
Nadeem Mazen
Mazen
Marc McGovern
McGovern
Denise Simmons
Simmons
Tim Toomey
Toomey

Member Sought for Cambridge Affordable Housing Trust

City Manager Richard C. Rossi is seeking residents who are interested in serving on the Cambridge Affordable Housing Trust.

Established in 1988, the Trust administers and oversees City funds allocated to the Trust for the creation and preservation of affordable rental and ownership housing and programs designed to meet the city’s affordable housing needs. The Trust reviews and acts on requests for Trust funding for affordable housing developments and programs, sets policies and standards for the Incentive Zoning and Inclusionary Housing Ordinances, and provides housing policy and program advice to city staff, city boards and commissions, and the Cambridge City Council.

The Trust is comprised of residents and representatives of non-profit housing organizations with expertise in affordable housing, housing policy, finance, urban planning and real estate development. The Trust is chaired by the City Manager and generally meets on the fourth Thursday of every month, from 4:00-5:30pm, at Cambridge City Hall, 795 Mass. Ave.

To apply, please submit a resume and a brief letter describing your interest in serving on the Trust and related experience. Final selection will be made by the City Manager. Letters should be sent by January 6, 2014 to:

Richard C. Rossi, City Manager
City of Cambridge
795 Massachusetts Avenue
Cambridge, MA 02139
Ph. 617-349-4300; Fax 617-349-4307
citymanager@cambridgema.gov


Snow Emergency in Effect starting Thursday at Noon

Snow EmergencyA snow emergency parking ban will go into effect on Thursday, January 2nd at noon. For more information, please visit the City's website, http://www.cambridgema.gov or call 617-349-4700 or 4800. Beginning at noon, streets that are signed "No Parking during a Snow Emergency" will be ticketed and towed until the ban is lifted. Please check to ensure that your vehicle is not parked on a restricted street. Any power outages should be reported directly to NSTAR at 800-592-2000.

Also, please keep your sidewalks passable for people of all abilities. - RW

The snow emergency parking ban currently in effect
will end on Friday, January 3rd at 5pm.

Snow on Broadway