2019 CCJ Notes - July through December
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Cambridge Launches Online Open Data Training Guide
New Tool Aims to Empower the Public

Dec 10, 2019 – The City of Cambridge has released a new interactive Open Data User Guide aimed at teaching residents and other public stakeholders how to effectively leverage Cambridge’s Open Data Portal. The user guide was built by the city using an innovative and easy-to-use software that will help create interactive, online trainings for internal and external stakeholders.

“Over the past few years, we have made substantial progress in using data to be more transparent, efficient, and innovative.” said City Manager Louis A. DePasquale. “Our Open Data Portal has become an essential tool for employees and the public to understand the city and has also enabled us to better support the wellbeing of Cambridge residents and stakeholders. This new training module will allow even more residents to engage with city data.”

“Public engagement is an important part of Cambridge’s open data efforts. By providing residents with easy-to-access, interactive instructions for using our Open Data Portal, we increase the number of data users helping us to be more innovative and efficient,” said Josh Wolff, Data Analytics & Open Data Program Manager.

The guide teaches users how to find, explore, filter, analyze, and visualize Cambridge’s municipal open datasets. After completing the training, users will be able to use the Open Data Portal to create line graphs, pie charts, and bar charts to analyze 311 service requests and other important municipal information. The user guide also links residents with other sources of municipal data and with more advanced instructions for creating open data applications.

“Cambridge’s Information Technology Department invests in training resources like this Open Data User Guide because we are dedicated to ensuring that our residents and our employees have the knowledge and skills necessary to make use of Cambridge’s online applications and other technology offerings,” said Eric Belford, Assistant Director of Information Technology.

Cambridge Open Data is free public data published by City of Cambridge departments. Open data creates transparency into city operations, enables residents to contribute to civic innovation, and provides local businesses with important data on the local economy. The datasets on the Cambridge Open Data Portal can be explored, downloaded, analyzed, or visualized with graphs, charts, and maps.

The interactive training is available on the Cambridge Open Data User Guide webpage, CambridgeMA.gov/OpenDataGuide.

For more information, contact Josh Wolff, Data Analytics & Open Data Program Manager at jwolff@cambridgema.gov.

In today's New York Times (Dec 3):
U.S. students fare poorly against global peers

American teenagers’ performance in reading and math remains stagnant, according to the latest results of an international exam, despite decades of effort — and billions of dollars spent — to raise standards.

The results of the test, the Program for International Student Assessment, were announced today. They showed that about a fifth of American 15-year-olds last year hadn’t mastered the reading skills expected of a 10-year-old.

Education experts disagree about why American students struggle and why a string of national reform efforts, including No Child Left Behind and the Common Core, has produced uneven results.

The details: About 600,000 15-year-olds from around the world took the test, which is given every three years. Students from Canada, China, Estonia, Finland, Ireland and Singapore were among those who outperformed their U.S. counterparts.

    -- Yeah, but at least they're all "woke" 'n stuff. - RW

Nov 15, 2019 Update: Final Official Election Results are in. The winners are the same as in the Unofficial Results.

Final Official 2019 City Council Election Results (PDF)
Order of Election: Sumbul Siddiqui, Denise Simmons, Patty Nolan, Quinton Zondervan, Marc McGovern, Alanna Mallon, Jivan Sobrinho-Wheeler, Dennis Carlone, Tim Toomey [incumbent Craig Kelley has been defeated]

Final Official 2019 School Committee Results (PDF)
Order of Election: Mannika Bowman, Emily Dexter, Alfred Fantini, Ayesha Wilson, Rachel Weinstein, Jose Luis Rojas Villarreal

Distribution of #1 Votes by Ward & Precinct - 2019 City Council Election (PDF)

Distribution of #1 Votes by Ward & Precinct - 2019 School Committee Election (PDF)

City Council 2019 - #2 Vote Distributions [Full Distributions]

School Committee 2019 #2 Vote Distributions

Who would replace each of the elected city councillors and School Committee members should a vacancy occur? Replacements are determined from the ballots used to elect each councillor or School Committee member. I ran the tabulation software with the 2019 ballot data and here's what I found:

Instant Runoff Mayor
As a purely academic exercise I also like to see how things would play out if the actual ballots were used to determine the Mayor via an Instant Runoff election (excluding all other candidates not elected to the City Council). The winner would be Sumbul Siddiqui with Patty Nolan as the runner-up. Here's the transfer report.

One more look at the 2019 ballots.......

Alternate Measures of Popularity - 2019 City Council Election

Alternate Measures of Popularity - 2019 School Committee Election
(based on number of ballots with candidate ranked)

Dec 15 - Perhaps it's time to just ignore election results and the will of Cambridge voters. I just heard that Emily Dexter does not intend to serve the third term to which she was just elected. Elections apparently don't matter any more. - RW

Instant Runoff School Committee Vice-Chair
As a purely academic exercise I worked out how things would play out if the actual ballots were used to determine the Vice-Chair of the School Committee via an Instant Runoff election (excluding all other candidates not elected to the School Committee). The winner would be Emily Dexter with Manikka Bowman as the runner-up. Here's the transfer report.

PS - I seriously hope that Emily Dexter reconsiders and takes the oath of office on January 6 as the voters of Cambridge directed in the November election.

Cambridge Human Services Commission Vacancies

Dec 12, 2019 – Cambridge City Manager Louis A. DePasquale is seeking Cambridge residents interested in volunteering to serve on the nine-member Human Services Commission.

The Commission advises the City Manager and the Assistant City Manager for Human Services on human services policy issues, needs assessment, and funding allocations. With the Department of Human Service Programs, the Commission also promotes activities that enhance the quality of life for Cambridge residents. Over the years, the Commission has responded to local needs by recommending Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding for a wide range of programs offered by the City and community agencies.

The Commission usually meets with the Assistant City Manager for Human Services on the second Thursday of each month from 5:30-7:30pm, at the Citywide Senior Center, 806 Mass. Ave. Commission members serve without compensation. For more information, contact Mike Payack at 617-349-6208 or mpayack@cambridgema.gov.

Applications to serve on this committee can be submitted to City Manager Louis A. DePasquale using the City’s online application system at cambridgema.gov/apply. A cover letter and resume or applicable experience must be submitted during the online application process. Paper applications are available in the City Manager’s Office at Cambridge City Hall, 795 Mass. Ave. The application deadline is Fri, Jan 17, 2020.

Dec 28, 2019     Site for Cambridge Selected     [Mass Moments]

On this day in 1630, the Massachusetts Bay Colony proprietors chose a site along the northern bank of the Charles River for their capital. They named it Newtowne, and laid out an orderly grid of streets fortified by a wooden palisade. It was the first planned town in English North America. Six years later, the colony's first college was established in Newtowne. In honor of the English university town, Newtowne was renamed Cambridge. Contemporary William Wood noted "this is one of the neatest . . . towns in New England, having many fair structures with many handsome . . . seats." Despite its well-ordered appearance, Cambridge did not remain the colony's capital. In 1638 the General Court settled five miles downstream, in the neighboring town of Boston.

City of Cambridge Services and Holiday Closures for Christmas and New Year's Day

Cambridge city offices, including all library locations and senior centers, will be closed on Dec 24 and Dec 25 in observance of the Christmas holiday and on Wed, Jan 1, in observance of New Year's Day. All library locations will close at 5pm on Dec 31. Payments are not required at City of Cambridge parking meters and parking meter pay stations on Dec 25 and Jan 1. Please also be advised that the two senior centers will be open limited hours on Saturdays in December, from 9am-12:30pm, and will be closed on Saturdays from Jan 4 - Mar 28, 2020.

Trash, Recycling and Compost Collection Holiday Schedule

• Regular curbside collection will take place on Tues, Dec 24
• There will be no curbside collection on Wed, Dec 25 and on Wed, Jan 1. Following the two holidays, collections will be delayed one day for the remainder of those two weeks.
• The Recycling Drop-off Center will be open on Sat, Dec 21 and Sat, Dec 28, but closed on Dec 24-25 and Jan 1, 2020.

Holiday Tree Collection

• Curbside collection of un-decorated Christmas trees (weather permitting), will occur Dec 30 - Jan 10. Trees will be collected on your regular curbside collection day. Decorations and stands must be removed and trees should not be in a plastic bag. Residents can also bring bare trees to the Recycling Center during open hours, Tuesdays and Thursdays 4-7:30pm and Saturdays 9am-4pm, beginning Thurs, Dec 26.
• Sign up for the Online Collection Reminder Tool to receive reminders about your collection days.
• If your holiday tree, trash, or recycling are missed, please let us know immediately by submitting a service request via the Commonwealth Connect app for iPhone and Android or at the Commonwealth Connect website, CambridgeMA.gov/CommonwealthConnect.

Street Cleaning

• Streets scheduled for Tues, Dec 24 will be swept on Mon, Dec 30.
• Streets scheduled for Wed, Dec 25 will be swept on Tues, Dec 31.
• The last day of street cleaning for the winter season will be Tues, Dec 31, 2019 and will resume in April 2020.

Cemetery

• The Cambridge Cemetery gates will be open from 7am-5pm throughout the holiday season.
• Cemetery and Public Works Administrative Offices will be closed on Tues, Dec 24 and Wed, Dec 25 in observance of the Christmas holidays and on Wed, Jan 1, 2020 in observance of New Year's Day.

Community Meeting to Discuss a New Inclusive Playground at Danehy Park Dec 19

The City of Cambridge will be holding the second community meeting to discuss a new Universal Design playground Thursday, December 19, from 6:30pm-8:00pm, at the Russell Youth Center, 680 Huron Avenue, Cambridge.

The Universal Design playground, which will be the first of its kind in the city, will be located at Mayor Thomas W. Danehy Park, on the empty parcel adjacent to Field Street. City staff, along with the design firm of Weston and Sampson, and a focus group of parents and educators will present initial site analysis findings and preliminary design concepts, which will include accessible play opportunities for children of all abilities along with passive areas for residents of all ages.

For more information, please contact Paul Ryder, Project Director, pryder@cambridgema.gov.

BIBBINS, M. Wyllis "Bill" Of Cambridge, age 87, died peacefully, Dec 1, 2019. Beloved husband of the late Julia "Judy" Bibbins. Devoted father of Patrick Bibbins and his wife Susan of Medford, Emily Silas and her husband Edward of Cambridge and Lydia De Jesus and her husband Jose of Brockton. Also survived by grandchildren Emery and Gavin Bibbins, Omar and Desmond Silas, and Angel, Samantha and Lilly De Jesus. Bill was an architect and partner in the firm Davies & Bibbins. A Memorial Service will be held Sat, Dec 21, at 11:00am, at St. Peter's Episcopal Church, Cambridge. Memorial donations may be made to Cambridge Community Foundation. Rogers & Hutchins Funeral Homes Arlington & Cambridge. [Note: Bill served for many years on the Cambridge Historical Commission.]

Nov 15 - 2019 Cambridge ballot data in hand - official results verified independently - guess what I'll be doing this weekend?

Demographic Mixed Bag - November 2019 Cambridge municipal election

I have been curious since the recent election whether there were any patterns in voter turnout that might be discerned when the information about who voted became available. That data became available recently and it's kind of a mixed bag. There are still a lot more younger voters than there were before 2017, but not as many as in 2017. There was a modest increase in the youngest range (up to about age 26 - credit for that probably goes to the supporters of Burhan Azeem and Jivan Sobrinho-Wheeler), but the numbers actually disproportionately dropped for most age ranges from about 27 through the middle age years. Interestingly, the number of voters increased for those in the 70-80 range. We can all speculate about why those numbers would be up when overall turnout was down.

Overall the number of registered voters increased from 66,354 in 2017 to 68,839 in 2019 (including those with listed birthdates) - a 3.7% increase. The number of people who actually voted decreased 4.8% from 22,407 to 21,329. Voter turnout in 2017 was 33.8% of all registered voters. That dropped to 31.0% in 2019, but that's still relatively high for a municipal election (it was 28.2% in 2015 and 25.2% in 2013).

Here are some graphics to illustrate this, starting with the distribution of voters by age (in 3-year intervals, 18-20, 21-23, etc.) in the Nov 2019 election.

Compare this to the 2017 distribution - especially the peak at 27-29:

Notice that in 2015 there were far fewer people in their 20s and 30s voting with a clear dominance in the 65-70 range.

When we look at 2017 and 2019 side-by-side you can more easily how some age ranges saw significant decreases (more than the ~5% overall drop) and other age ranges actually saw increases.

Here's an annotated graph highlighting some of the more interesting changes.

Members Sought to fill Upcoming Vacancies in Recycling Advisory Committee

City Manager Louis A. DePasquale is seeking Cambridge residents, business owners, and local professionals interested in serving on the Recycling Advisory Committee (RAC) beginning in January 2020.

The RAC is a volunteer committee which provides advice, recommendations, and assistance to the Department of Public Works (DPW) regarding recycling, composting, reuse, and waste reduction. The RAC does this through research, feedback, public outreach, and event planning. The RAC has been instrumental in the city’s new Zero Waste Master Plan, Fix-It Clinics, marketing and education, and other important initiatives that have made Cambridge a national leader in waste reduction.

Cambridge Recycling began in 1989 with a few volunteers dedicated to beginning a recycling drop-off program. Today, the city recovers more than 11,000 tons per year of recyclables from more than 44,000 households. Approximately 32,000 households have access to curbside composting, reducing the city’s trash by more than 7% in the first year of citywide composting. More households will be added to the program over time. The City now serves 123 businesses in the Small Business Recycling Pilot. Lastly, the RAC is working on a Single-Use Plastics regulation in conjunction with the Cambridge City Council and the Department of Public Works.

Currently, the city’s goals to reduce waste match those in the MA Solid Waste Master Plan. Using 2008 as a baseline year, the city aims to reduce trash 30% by 2020 and 80% by 2050. As of 2018, the city has reduced trash by 28%.

The Committee has been active for over 20 years and consists of at least nine members with a demonstrated interest in the topics listed above. Members serve a three-year term and are expected to attend monthly meetings (Sept-June). The city seeks members that represent local businesses and property managers, Cambridge residents, and users of the Recycling Center, universities, non-profit organizations and social service agencies whose goals overlap with waste reduction.

Duties, Responsibilities and Minimum Requirements include:

• Attend and participate in monthly meeting, held the second Wednesday of the month (September-June) at 8am, at Cambridge City Hall, 795 Massachusetts Ave., Sullivan Chamber, 2nd Floor. Enter through back door of City Hall.
• Participate in creating committee direction and implementation of ideas
• Take a leadership role in projects, such as doing research, organizing & attending events, and advocacy.
• Work with the Public Works Recycling Division, Climate Protection Action Committee, and other appropriate City staff to provide feedback on City initiatives.
• Research different approaches to communication, education and best practices for recycling, composting, reuse and waste reduction programs.
• Disseminate outreach materials and educate the community
• Write articles or blogs to promote Cambridge recycling.
• Initiate, plan, attend and run events to promote recycling, composting, reuse and waste reduction
• Meet with the community and participate in at least 2-3 events, such as Danehy Park Family Day, Public Works Week events, Fresh Pond Day, May Fair, block parties

Helpful Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Marketing
• Outreach and community engagement
• Project Management
• Advocacy for state policies
• Familiarity with Cambridge Public Schools

To learn more about the committee’s work, please consider attending an upcoming meeting, on Oct 16 or Nov 13. For more information, contact Michael Orr, Recycling Director, at 617-349-4815 or morr@cambridgema.gov. The deadline for submitting applications is November 15, 2019. Applications can be submitted to City Manager Louis A. DePasquale using the City’s online application system at cambridgema.gov/apply. A cover letter and resume or applicable experience can be submitted during the online application process. Paper applications are available in the City Manager’s Office at Cambridge City Hall, 795 Massachusetts Avenue.

Member Sought for Cambridge Affordable Housing Trust - Application Deadline Extended

Cambridge City Manager Louis A. DePasquale is seeking residents who are interested in serving on the Cambridge Affordable Housing Trust.

The Affordable Housing Trust administers and oversees city funds allocated to create and preserve affordable rental and homeownership housing, and to support housing programs that address the city’s affordable housing needs. The Trust members review proposals for new housing preservation, development efforts, and other housing programs, and provide housing policy and program advice to the City Manager, city staff, other city boards and commissions, and the Cambridge City Council.

The Trust is comprised of members with experience in affordable housing, housing policy, finance, development, planning, and design. The Trust is chaired by the City Manager and generally meets on the fourth Thursday of every month, from 4-5:30pm, at Cambridge City Hall, 795 Massachusetts Avenue.

The deadline for submitting applications is Friday, Nov 1, 2019. Applications can be submitted to City Manager Louis A. DePasquale using the city’s online application system at cambridgema.gov/apply. A cover letter and resume or applicable experience can be submitted during the online application process. Paper applications are available in the City Manager’s Office at Cambridge City Hall, 795 Massachusetts Avenue.

Member Sought to Fill Cambridge Library Board of Trustees Vacancy - Application Deadline Extended

City Manager Louis A. DePasquale is seeking to fill a vacancy on the Board of Trustees for the Cambridge Public Library.

Library trustees are volunteer community representatives, library advocates, and leaders in the establishment of goals and policies for the Cambridge Public Library system. Trustees are a vital link between the library staff and the community and work to ensure the quality of library services, collections, and programs, and to make certain that the library reflects and is relevant to the community.

Trustees serve a 3 year term and are expected to attend monthly board meetings, committee and community meetings, appropriate continuing education workshops or conferences, and library programs as their schedules allow.

Ideal candidates will have an interest in and passion for public libraries and an understanding of the importance of the public library as a center of information, culture, recreation, and life-long learning in the community. Candidates should also have knowledge of the community, including an awareness of diverse social and economic conditions, needs and interests of all groups. Strong verbal and written communication skills, including public speaking skills are required. Trustees work productively as a team. It is also important for candidates to understand how the role of the public library is evolving and how information technology and societal changes inform the library’s future.

The deadline for submitting applications is October 22, 2019. Applications can be submitted to City Manager Louis A. DePasquale using the City’s online application system at cambridgema.gov/apply. A cover letter and resume or applicable experience can be submitted during the online application process. Paper applications are available in the City Manager’s Office at Cambridge City Hall, 795 Massachusetts Avenue. For more information about the role of Library trustees, contact Maria McCauley, Director of Libraries at 617-349-4032.

Members Sought for Cambridge Citizens’ Committee on Civic Unity - Application Deadline Extended

Cambridge City Manager Louis A. DePasquale is seeking members of the community who live and/or work in Cambridge (including private sector and municipal employees, business owners, students, and others) to become a part of the Citizens’ Committee on Civic Unity. Applications from interested community members are welcome through October 18, 2019.

The mission of the City of Cambridge Citizens’ Committee on Civic Unity is to foster fairness, equity, unity, appreciation, and mutual understanding across all people and entities in Cambridge. The Citizens’ Committee on Civic Unity works to provide opportunities for constructive discussions and community events regarding race, class, religion, gender, disability, and sexual orientation, through recognizing and raising awareness of historic, existing and potential civic issues; providing opportunities for honest dialogue and engagement; and by building bridges across communities to better understand and connect with one another.

The Committee generally meets monthly. Committee meetings are open to the public and may include presentations by guest speakers, city staff, and various experts. For information on the committee’s work, current goals, meeting schedule, and events, please visit: www.cambridgema.gov/civicunity

Applications can be submitted to City Manager Louis A. DePasquale using the City’s online application system at cambridgema.gov/apply. A cover letter and resume or applicable experience can be submitted during the online application process. Paper applications are available in the City Manager’s Office at Cambridge City Hall, 795 Massachusetts Avenue. Once your application is submitted, you will receive a confirmation email. Applications are due by Friday, Oct 18, 2019.

If you have question about the application process, please contact the City Manager's Office at 617-349-4300 or fgaines@Cambridgema.gov.

Digital Equity Working Group Members Sought - Application Deadline Extended

City Manager Louis A. DePasquale is seeking residents to fill two positions on the City Manager’s Digital Equity Working Group. This administrative working group will provide input and guidance to the City Manager and staff at key milestones during the City’s yearlong study of digital equity in the Cambridge. The working group will assist in creating a draft vision and set of goals to inform the City’s digital equity strategy. Additionally, the working group, based on the findings of the study and research of best practices and regional efforts, will help develop targeted strategies the City could take to address digital equity in Cambridge.

The working group will meet quarterly with the possibility of 3-4 additional meetings. The term of this working group is one year.

Applications to serve on the City Manager’s Digital Divide Working Group can be submitted to City Manager Louis A. DePasquale using the City’s online application system at cambridgema.gov/apply. A cover letter and resume or relevant experience  or interest may be submitted during the online application process. Paper applications are available in the City Manager’s Office at Cambridge City Hall, 795 Massachusetts Avenue. The deadline to submit an application is Friday, October 11, 2019.

Tues, Nov 26

5:00pm   Special City Council meeting to take up the petition by Stephen R. Karp, Trustee of Cambridgeside Galleria Associates Trust, to amend the Zoning Ordinance of the City of Cambridge by adding a Section 13.100 that creates a new PUD-8 District.  (Sullivan Chamber - Televised)

OUTCOME: The City Council voted 7-2 (Carlone, Zondervan - NO) to Pass the Petition as Amended to a 2nd Reading.

CRLS, CHLS & RINDGE HOMECOMING 2019

A series of events for alumni and staff of CRLS, CHLS and Rindge Tech beginning Saturday, November 9, 2019 through Sunday, December 1.

EVENTS:

MUSICAL: Saturday, 11/09, Sunday 11/10, Friday 11/22, Saturday 11/23 and Sunday Matinee 11/24 - CRLS Musical "Sister Act" - 7:00pm @ the Fitzgerald Theater, Broadway, Cambridge MA with Alumni Night, Saturday 11/23

• MUSICAL Info Here
• MUSICAL Tickets Here

PANEL DISCUSSION: Tuesday, 11/26 -"Fifth Annual Alumni Panel Discussion" for CRLS Jrs and Srs at CRLS during first and second block for CRLS Juniors and Seniors

ALUMUNI REUNION NIGHT: "In the Square" Wednesday, 11/27/2019 from 8:00-12:00 midnight @ Hong Kong Restaurant, 1238 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02138 Free Hors d'oeuvres. Free Drink to the first 100!

HOMECOMING FOOTBALL GAME: Thursday, 11/28/2019 - CRLS vs Somerville at Russel Field @ 10am, Cambridge (Tickets available at Gate)

ALUMNI SOCCER GAME: Friday, 11/29/2019 - Danehy Field 4, starting at 10:00am

REUNIONS:

ALUMUNI REUNION NIGHT: "In the Square" Wednesday, 11/27/2019 from 8:00-12:00 midnight @ Hong Kong Restaurant, 1238 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02138 Free Hors d'oeuvres. Free Drink to the first 100!

LINKS:
Alumni Website: http://www.crlsalumni.org/
EventBrite Homecoming 2019: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/chls-crls-and-rindge-tech-2019-homecoming-tickets-80188769769
Contact: Andy Farrar: af@handsontoys.com

Leonard Goldstein, Former Owner of Keezer’s Classic Clothing, Dies at 67 (Nov 11, 2019 - Harvard Crimson)
“Len has always had the gift of gab and would very often talk to people for long periods of time,” Soodak said. “Len was a really smart guy, and knew a lot about a lot of things, so people would come in and he would strike up a conversation, and they could go for quite a while. So he had a good relationship with all the customers.”

City of Cambridge Veterans' Appreciation Week Nov 11-15, 2019
Veterans' Day Observance Event Nov 11, 2019

Nov 4, 2019 – The City of Cambridge will kick off its third annual Veterans’ Appreciation Week Nov 11-15, 2019 with the annual Veterans' Day Observance event. The Cambridge Department of Veterans' Services and Cambridge Veterans' Organization (CVO) will hold their annual Veterans’ Day Observance on Monday, Nov 11, at 11:00am, at the Veterans’ World War I Monument, next to the main gate of Cambridge Cemetery, 76 Coolidge Avenue.

Veterans, Police and Fire Department Color Guards will muster at the World War I monument. For the observance, CVO President, Phillip Anderson, will serve as Master of Ceremonies. A CRLS drama student will read the Governor’s Proclamation and a music student will sing the National Anthem and lead the audience in singing God Bless America. In honor of all Cambridge veterans who have served our nation, a memorial wreath will be placed at the Veterans’ WWI monument. The ceremony will include a bagpipe rendition of Amazing Grace, followed by a “Rifle Salute” from the CVO’s Firing Detail, and the playing of Taps. Afterward, a luncheon will be held from 12-1pm at American Legion Marsh Post #442, 5 Greenough Blvd., Cambridge. This event is open to the public.

Activities on select days of Veterans' Appreciation Week will include acupuncture, guided meditation, fitness and nutrition tips, restorative therapy, art workshops, social gatherings, food and refreshments.

Veterans Appreciation Week Nov 12-15, 2019

Tuesday, Nov 12 (1-5pm)
Acupuncture, Guided Meditation, and Pop-up Painting Veterans Life & Recreation Center (VLRC), 51 Inman St., 2nd Floor
Members from Community Acupuncture will be on-hand to apply acupuncture. Meditation guides from Meditation as Medicine will join us again this year to provide guided meditation sessions for veterans. This group has veterans on staff who are qualified to assist individuals with PTS challenges through the meditation process. Have fun making your own painting with guest instructor, Kristopher Cere, from Pop Up Paint Studios.

Wednesday, Nov 13 (1-5pm)
Women’s Veteran Appreciation Day and Art Demonstration Veterans Life & Recreation Center (VLRC), 51 Inman St., 2nd Floor
Please join us in celebrating all Women Veterans. We will have a social gathering with refreshments. All are welcome! Kenneth Headley, Cambridge Veteran and local artist, will offer a demonstration of his wood burning and painting technique.

Thursday Nov 14 (1-4pm)
Art Demonstration Veterans Life & Recreation Center (VLRC), 51 Inman St., 2nd Floor
Kenneth Headley, Cambridge Veteran and local artist, will be back for another day to demonstrate his wood burning and painting technique.

Friday Nov 15 (9:30am-12pm)
Buffet, Nutrition, Fitness, and Acupuncture Veterans Life & Recreation Center (VLRC), 51 Inman St., 2nd Floor
Enjoy a buffet of locally supplied food as we close out the week’s events. Fitness and nutrition specialists from Always Strong Fitness will be available for a free consultation. Acupuncturist will be back for another day of treatments. For more information, contact the City’s Department of Veterans’ Services at 617-349-4760 or veterans@cambridgema.gov.

Nov 9 - Some information about the Cambridge Candidate Pages

It's worth noting that the Cambridge Candidate Pages get a lot of attention every two years with the municipal election, but it's interesting to note WHEN they get the most attention. Voters do consult them during the weeks and months leading up to Election Day, but the number of visitors always spike dramatically a day or two before Election Day and explode on Election Day. I don't know exactly what this says about voters and how much attention they pay to the candidates and the issues, but for those who do vote it is a valuable resource - and that even includes some voters while they are actually in the polls using their phones. This year the number of unique visitors during this period was approximately 11,000. Here's the day-by-day tally of visits, individual pages viewed, and bandwidth. Note the peak on Election Day (Nov 5). - RW

Note: The total number of voters was approximately 21,314.

Nov 7, 2019 Update: Unofficial Election Results are in. The winners are the same as in the Preliminary Results.

Unofficial 2019 City Council Election Results (PDF)
Order of Election: Sumbul Siddiqui, Denise Simmons, Patty Nolan, Quinton Zondervan, Marc McGovern, Alanna Mallon, Jivan Sobrinho-Wheeler, Dennis Carlone, Tim Toomey [incumbent Craig Kelley has been defeated]

Unofficial 2019 School Committee Results (PDF)
Order of Election: Mannika Bowman, Emily Dexter, Alfred Fantini, Ayesha Wilson, Rachel Weinstein, Jose Luis Rojas Villarreal

Watch the CCTV recording of the Election Night broadcast of The Count

Preliminary 2019 City Council Election Results (PDF)     Preliminary 2019 City Council Results (HTML)
Order of Election: Sumbul Siddiqui, Denise Simmons, Patty Nolan, Quinton Zondervan, Marc McGovern, Alanna Mallon, Jivan Sobrinho-Wheeler, Dennis Carlone, Tim Toomey [incumbent Craig Kelley appears to have been defeated]

Preliminary 2019 School Committee Results (PDF)     Preliminary 2019 School Committee Results (HTML)
Order of Election: Mannika Bowman, Emily Dexter, Alfred Fantini, Ayesha Wilson, Rachel Weinstein, Jose Luis Rojas Villarreal

Distribution of #1 Votes by Ward & Precinct - Preliminary 2019 School Committee Election (PDF)

Note (Nov 5): There are still 888 "auxiliary" City Council ballots and 2,336 auxiliary School Committee ballots to be counted on Wednesday, and most likely a handful of additional overseas absentee and provisional ballots to be counted on Friday, November 15 before the results are final and official. Many of the auxiliary ballots may prove to be blank ballots, especially for School Committee. The margin between Carlone and Kelley after the deciding 14th Count was 39 in the preliminary (Tuesday) results. Though it is unlikely that this will change appreciably due to these additional ballots or due to changes in the surplus ballots drawn from Siddiqui's total, it is not impossible that this deciding round could change.

Voter turnout was approximately 31% of all registered voters (or about 42% of all "active" voters) based on the current estimate of total ballots cast.

PS - The people of New York City yesterday passed ranked choice voting by a margin of 73.1% to 26.9%. This IS a big deal!

City of Cambridge Announces 20 MPH Speed Limit on Most City-Owned Streets

Oct 28, 2019 – The City of Cambridge will reduce the speed limit on most city-owned streets to 20 mph, starting in mid-November. The new speed limits will apply on smaller, primarily local-access streets. Larger, arterial roads will still have a speed limit of 25 mph, unless otherwise posted. By driving at or below 20 mph, people can help reduce the likelihood of a crash. Lowering speed limits is a key part of the city's Vision Zero strategy to eliminate all crashes that result in serious or fatal injuries. If a crash does happen, it is much less likely to cause serious injury or fatality. When in doubt, go 20 mph.

Data show that reducing speeds has a big impact on the outcome of crashes. A study from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety showed that people walking are almost half as likely to be killed or seriously injured if struck by a car traveling 25 mph as compared to a car traveling 30 mph.

“We’ve heard concerns about speeding from people throughout the Cambridge community,” said Joseph Barr, Director of the Traffic, Parking, and Transportation Department. “Reducing the speed limit is an important step towards addressing those concerns. This change will also inform the way that we design our streets and help support our ongoing traffic calming efforts.”

During implementation, approximately 660 “Safety Zone” signs will be installed. A contractor, managed by city staff, will complete the majority of the work. Installations will begin in mid-November and proceed for approximately three months. Work will start in East Cambridge and proceed across the city to the west. A map of streets with 20 mph speed limits and approximate sign locations is available at cambridgema.gov/20mph. The map will be updated on an ongoing basis as new signs are installed.

Reducing the speed limit on most city-owned streets to 20 mph follows the reduction of the default speed limit from 30 mph to 25 mph in December of 2016. It also builds off work done in early 2018 to decrease speed limits to 20 mph in the city’s five squares. Both this and the previous speed limit changes were made possible by the State's 2016 Municipal Modernization Act. Chapter 90, Section 18B of the Massachusetts General Laws allows the Traffic, Parking, and Transportation Department Director to establish 20 mph safety zones in the interest of public safety.

Election Day is Tuesday, November 5, 2019.     List of Candidates who pulled nomination papers

Cambridge Candidate Pages    2019 Cambridge City Council Campaign Bank Reports

There will be 22 City Council candidates and 11 School Committee candidates.

Cambridge City Council and School Committee candidates: 1941 to 2019  (plain text) (PDF) - updated Aug 3, 2019

Deadline to Register to Vote and Availability of Absentee Ballots for the Municipal Election, November 5th

The Cambridge Municipal Election will be held on Tuesday, November 5, 2019. For Cambridge residents not already registered, the last day to register to vote is Wednesday, October 16, 2019 until 8pm. The Office of the Secretary of State has developed an Online Voter Registration System at www.registertovotema.com. Individuals may use the online system to submit an online application, update their address or change their party affiliation. You must have a valid driver's license, learner's permit, or non-driver ID issued by the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV). If you do not have an RMV ID you can use the system to create an application. Print and sign the completed form and mail or bring it to the office of the Cambridge Election Commission.

Absentee Ballots are now available at the Cambridge Election Commission office. Any voter who is unable to go to the polls on Election Day due to physical disability, religious belief, or absence from the City may request an Absentee Ballot from the Commission. The deadline to apply for an absentee ballot is Mon, Nov 4 at noon. Absentee Ballots may be mailed to voters, or such voters may choose to vote at the Commission office during regular city office hours: Monday, 8:30am-8:00pm; Tuesday-Thursday, 8:30am-5:00pm; Friday, 8:30am-Noon. The office will be open for extended hours on the following dates:
Friday, November 1st, 8:30am to 5pm.
Saturday, November 2nd, 9am to 5pm.

The polls will be open on Election Day, November 5th from 7:00am until 8:00pm.
For any additional information, please visit the Cambridge Election Commission office at 51 Inman Street, call (617-349-4361) or visit our website at www.cambridgema.gov/election.

[Where do I vote?]   [Polling locations - 2019   (PDF version)]

Cambridge to Celebrate 19th Amendment Centennial with Event Series and Public Art Commission

Cambridge is celebrating the centennial anniversary of the 19th Amendment and recognizing the Cambridge women who fought tirelessly for women’s right to vote by commissioning a public art piece and hosting an event series.  A working group led by the Chair of the Civic Unity Committee is planning three major events from September 2019 to August 2020.  While each event will have a different focus, all events will recognize the contributions of underrepresented women and the continuing struggle for equality and enfranchisement.

The first event, Claiming Our Seats: A Kitchen Dialogue on Women's Voting Rights, will be held Wednesday, Sept. 25, from 6-8:30 p.m., at Cambridge Public Library Lecture Hall, 449 Broadway. Dr. Jennifer Guglielmo, Rev. Irene Monroe, and Dr. Laurie Nsiah-Jefferson will engage us in a reflective dialogue about women’s rights across the 20th and 21st centuries, moderated by Andrea Asuaje. Register via camb.ma/ClaimASeat.

At the direction of the City Council, City Manager Louis A. DePasquale has established the Nineteenth Amendment Centennial Committee to commission the public art. Working in collaboration, the Cambridge Arts Council released the Committee's Call to Artists: Request for Qualifications! Submissions are due September 30, 2019. Please review the RFQ and visit Cambridge Arts for additional information on how to apply.

With the support of city staff, the Committee will also set goals for the public art piece; work with the city to determine a location; conduct public outreach and review public input on the artist proposals and location; and lead the selection process from a group of finalists. The Committee plans to announce the selected proposal during the final Centennial celebration event in August 2020. For more information, visit CambridgeMA.gov/19thAmendmentCommittee.

Truth Matters

Aug 15 - At last night's City Council Ordinance Committee meeting on cannabis business regulation, one supposedly well-informed and politically astute speaker asserted that there are about 5000 liquor licenses in Cambridge. The actual number is 284. [Twitter comments welcome]

Cambridge Arts Open Studios 2019
Saturday, Sept 28, noon to 6pm and
Sunday, Sept 29, 11am to 5pm

The 11th annual Cambridge Arts Open Studios will be held on Sept 28 and 29, 2019. Each year about 150 artists showcase their creations in their homes, studios and group locations all across the city. Find painting, pottery, natural soaps, jewelry, refurbished furniture. Admission is free. All are welcome. cambridgema.gov/arts/programs/openstudios

Get a sneak peek at the Cambridge Arts Open Studios Preview Party on Thurs, Sept 26, 5:30–7:30pm. Hosted by the Cambridge Art Association, 25 Lowell St., Cambridge. Exhibition on view Thurs, Sept 26, to Sun, Sept 29.

Why do labor unions pour so much money into City Council campaign coffers?

Aug 15, updated Sept 23 - One thing I have always found puzzling is the amount of money donated to the campaign accounts of incumbent city councillors. I suppose this could be interpreted as financial support for those who have supported unions in their noble quest for better wages, benefits, and working conditions, but the fact is that all incumbents and challengers appear to share this sentiment. So perhaps it's something different. There is a longstanding pattern of labor representatives being recruited by some of the larger real estate developers to speak in favor of new development - supposedly because of the jobs involved, but that always struck me as too simplistic. Many of the people who control the funds of these political action committees are, to say the least, politically connected.

There's also the matter of political contributions from people tied to real estate development. This is always difficult to evaluate because of the simple fact that it's very difficult, if not impossible, to determine motive. There are people who have been generous charitable contributors for ages who also happen to own and/or develop Cambridge real estate. Are their contributions related to their real estate interests or not?

Of course, there's also the matter of whether or not contributions come from Cambridge residents. It's not always easy to draw conclusions from this - primarily because some candidates have family and friends scattered across the rest of the state and the country.

Here's a revised account of the (a) Cambridge contributions, (b) union contributions, (c) real estate contributions (as best as I could discern), and (d) total of union and real estate money contributed over this election cycle starting from Feb 1, 2018 through the latest data available (Sept 23, 2019; 7:29am) for all City Council candidates (notes: - receipts include loans from candidates to their campaigns; refunds deducted if clearly a refund):

The table has been relocated and will be regularly updated at:
Follow the Money – Cambridge City Council Campaign Receipts 2019

City Manager’s Disposition Report pursuant to Chapter 2.110 of the Cambridge Municipal Code

The City has released the City Manager's Disposition Report, which has been prepared for the City Council, Planning Board, and City Clerk. The Report is available online at cambridgema.gov/firststreetgarage.

Materials related to the future of the First Street Garage, including the Third Community meeting presentation, the City Manager's Disposition Report, and the First Street Area Parking Planning Study report, are available on the project website.

UPCOMING HEARINGS
Planning Board Hearing, Aug 13, 2019 at 6:30pm, at 344 Broadway
The Planning Board approved the proposal 6-0 at the Aug 13 meeting.

City Council Hearing, Sept 9, 2019 at 6:30pm, at Cambridge City Hall
Recessed and will reconvene on Sept 18 at 3:00pm

References:
Final Report for the First Street Area Parking Planning Study (by the consulting team of Kleinfelder and McMahon Associates)
Complete report available at www.cambridgema.gov/firststreetgarage, and consists of three items:
  • Cover memo from Traffic, Parking, and Transportation Director Joseph Barr
  • Summary report that provides a condensed overview of the study process, analysis, and conclusions.
  • Full report that documents the data collection, data analysis, scenario review, and conclusions.
[First Street Area Parking Planning Study Report Summary] [First Street Area Parking Planning Study Final Report]

It's Move-Out Season!

Every August & September we see a spike in trash and an increase in contamination in our recycling. Here are some tips for reducing how much we trash:

1. Clothes/shoes/textiles: There are 2 dozen textile donation bins in Cambridge that will accept all textiles.
2. Plan ahead and schedule TVs, A/Cs, mattresses and other items that require a permit.
3. All electronics may be recycled if disposed of properly.
4. Cardboard: Please break down boxes and nest them next to your recycling cart on collection day.
5. If unsure how to dispose of something, use the Get Rid of It Right tool.
6. Give stuff away on Craigslist, Buy Nothing Cambridge, or NextDoor.com.

Most importantly, please share this information with your neighbors, tenants, friends and others. We rely heavily on word-of-mouth during move-out. Residents may sign up for our newsletter at CambridgeMA.Gov/Subscribe. Thank you!

Missed Collection? Report it by 9am the day after collection at CambridgeMA.Gov/311.

Household Hazardous Waste Day--Sept. 7
The next event is located at Danehy Park (access event by entering from Concord Ave & Fern Street). At our HHW events, please remember the following:

• Items labeled POISON, DANGER, WARNING, or CAUTION are hazardous and should be brought to HHW events.
• Some items are also accepted at DPW's Recycling Center.
• Latex paint can be taken on trash day. Dry out the paint (with kitty litter) and leave it at the curb with the lids off on your next collection day.

Help School Kids Recycle & Compost
It’s back-to-school time and WE NEED YOU! All Cambridge Public Schools have recycling and composting in the cafeteria. Students will need help remembering, or in the case of the new ones, learning, what goes where. Does it go in Recycle? Compost? Can it go on the Share Table? Having adults present to guide students (and thank them) makes a big difference.

Email us if you can help at a couple lunches or breakfasts during the first two weeks of school. Going weekly is also welcome--volunteers such as Rozann (pictured) go weekly. Thank you in advance for sharing some of your time to empower students to help the earth every time they clean up after a meal.

Cambridge's Largest Yard Sale
The Harvard Stuff Sale runs Aug. 27-Sept. 1 at the Harvard Science Center Plaza (near 1 Oxford Street) from 9am-5pm. Visit the Stuff Sale to find used but clean fans, lamps, mirrors, microwaves, rugs, mini-fridges, storage boxes, posters, tables and more items. During move-out, Harvard Recycling recovered 200 truckloads of donated student furnishings. Proceeds from the sale benefit Harvard's Habitat for Humanity efforts to build housing for those in need.

Click here to get flyers, carts, and more for Recycling, Composting & Yard Waste

Upcoming Waste Events

• Sun. 8/18: Style Revival [Repair • Alter • Swap], Somerville.
• Tues. 8/27-Sun. 9/1: Harvard University Stuff Sale, 1 Oxford Street.
• Tues. 9/3: Volunteer to help students recycle & compost, Cambridge Public School Cafeterias. First two weeks of school.
• Sat. 9/7: Hazardous Waste Event for residents, Danehy Park (Field St Lot).
• Sat. 9/28: Shred Event at City Hall, 795 Mass Ave.

If you know of any other waste-related events, email us so we may broadcast.

How do I Get Rid of It Right? Download the Zero Waste Cambridge app or visit CambridgeMA.Gov/Recycle.

Danehy Park Family Day Saturday, Sept 14, 11:00am–4:00pm

The City of Cambridge will host its annual Danehy Park Family Day on Saturday, Sept 14, from 11am–4pm. Rain Date is Sunday, Sept 15. Danehy Park is a 55-acre open space area located in North Cambridge at 99 Sherman St.

Danehy Park Family Day includes amusement rides, live music, roving performers, arts and crafts, food and giveaways (while supplies last).   Picnics and lawn chairs are encouraged!

In celebration of National Drive Electric Week Sept. 14-22, the City of Cambridge, in partnership with Eversource and MASS DRIVE CLEAN, will host a free electric vehicle (EV) test drive event during Danehy Park Family Day, in the parking lot of 87 New St.

Free shuttle buses will be running throughout Cambridge neighborhoods and from the Alewife MBTA Station.  Danehy Park can also be reached by #74 bus or #78 bus from Harvard Square; or #83 bus from Central Square.

For more information, including entertainment schedule and shuttle bus pick-up locations, visit the Danehy Park Family Day web page.

Cambridge Works Recruiting Participants for Next Cycle

Aug 5, 2019 – Cambridge Works, the City of Cambridge's transitional jobs program, is recruiting participants for its next cycle. The program serves residents ages 18-35 who, for a variety of reasons, have not been able to get or keep jobs. The centerpiece of the transitional jobs model is learning to work by going to work.

The City of Cambridge and a few private sector partners provide a 3-month temporary job as a vehicle for participants to learn basic job-readiness skills. Applications are being accepted now and interviews will start soon. The cycle in begins in September, right after Labor Day. For more information, call 617-349-7741, or visit https://www.cambridgema.gov/DHSP/programsforadults/cambridgeworks.

Cambridge Commission on Immigrant Rights and Citizenship Vacancies - deadline extended to Sept 13

Cambridge City Manager Louis DePasquale is seeking persons interested in serving on the Cambridge Commission on Immigrant Rights and Citizenship (CIRC). The Commission consists of 11 volunteer members, who are appointed by the City Manager, following an application and interview process. The term of the appointment is three years. Commissioners are expected to be knowledgeable about immigrant rights and citizenship and must be residents of Cambridge. It is desirable for this Commission to be fully representative of the diverse Cambridge community.

Cambridge welcomes immigrants and wants to encourage their success and access to opportunity and advancement in this country. It will be a goal of this Commission to get the message of welcome out, through collaboration with organizations that already provide services and outreach to our immigrant community. The Commission will act as a centralizing organization in Cambridge, to address immigrant rights and citizenship issues through providing information, referral, guidance, coordination and technical assistance to other public agencies and private persons, organizations and institutions engaged in activities and programs intended to support immigrant rights and citizenship.

Commissioners are expected to work with other members of the Commission and staff to fulfill the goals and objectives of the Cambridge Commission on Immigrant Rights and Citizenship Ordinance.

The deadline for submitting applications is Friday, September 13, 2019. Individuals interested in being considered should apply by using the city’s online application system at www.cambridgema.gov/apply. A cover letter and résumé or summary of applicable experience can be submitted during the online application process. Paper applications are available in the City Manager’s Office at Cambridge City Hall, 795 Massachusetts Avenue.

Cambridge Human Rights Commission Board Vacancy - deadline extended to Sept 13

City Manager Louis A. DePasquale is seeking a resident to fill a vacancy on the Cambridge Human Rights Commission.

The Cambridge Human Rights Commission (CHRC) seeks Cambridge residents representing the diversity of Cambridge. 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 accommodations, employment or education based upon race, color, sex, age, religion, disability, national origin or ancestry, sexual orientation, gender, marital status, family status, military status or source of income.

The Human Rights Commission is made up of 11 members who serve three-year terms. Meetings are held on the first Thursday of every month at 6:00pm.

The deadline for submitting applications is Friday, September 13, 2019. Applications can be submitted to City Manager Louis A. DePasquale using the City’s online application system at www.cambridgema.gov/apply. A cover letter and resume or applicable experience can be submitted during the online application process. Paper applications are available in the City Manager’s Office at Cambridge City Hall, 795 Massachusetts Avenue. For more information, contact Nancy Schlacter, Cambridge Human Rights Commission, at 617-349-4396 or nschlacter@cambridgema.gov.

Cambridge Conservation Commission Member Sought

Cambridge City Manager Louis a. DePasquale is seeking to fill a vacancy on the Cambridge Conservation Commission. The Commission is responsible for administering the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act (WPA), a state law governing activities in and immediately adjacent to local wetlands, waterways and floodplains. Additionally, the Commission plays an important role in implementing the Massachusetts Stormwater Management Policy and Standards.

The Conservation Commission holds up to two public meetings each month to review permit applications under the WPA, issue permits, and conduct other business related to the management of Cambridge’s natural resource areas.

The Commission consists of seven members appointed by the City Manager to serve three-year terms. Cambridge residents with expertise in landscape architecture, civil/environmental engineering, hydrology, ecology, or law are encouraged to apply.

Applications to serve on the Conservation Commission can be submitted to City Manager Louis A. DePasquale using the City’s online application system at www.cambridgema.gov/apply. A cover letter and resume or applicable experience may be submitted during the online application process. Paper applications are available in the City Manager’s Office at Cambridge City Hall, 795 Massachusetts Avenue. The deadline to submit an application is Friday, September 6, 2019.

City Manager’s Disposition Report pursuant to Chapter 2.110 of the Cambridge Municipal Code

The City has released the City Manager's Disposition Report, which has been prepared for the City Council, Planning Board, and City Clerk. The Report is available online at cambridgema.gov/firststreetgarage.

Materials related to the future of the First Street Garage, including the Third Community meeting presentation, the City Manager's Disposition Report, and the First Street Area Parking Planning Study report, are available on the project website.

UPCOMING HEARINGS
Planning Board Hearing, Aug 13, 2019 at 6:30pm, at 344 Broadway
The Planning Board approved the proposal 6-0 at the Aug 13 meeting.

City Council Hearing, Sept 9, 2019 at 6:30pm, at Cambridge City Hall

References:
Final Report for the First Street Area Parking Planning Study (by the consulting team of Kleinfelder and McMahon Associates)
Complete report available at www.cambridgema.gov/firststreetgarage, and consists of three items:
  • Cover memo from Traffic, Parking, and Transportation Director Joseph Barr
  • Summary report that provides a condensed overview of the study process, analysis, and conclusions.
  • Full report that documents the data collection, data analysis, scenario review, and conclusions.
[First Street Area Parking Planning Study Report Summary] [First Street Area Parking Planning Study Final Report]

Magazine Beach Park - Summer Programs
Come for Fun

All programs are FREE except yoga, where we request a donation. Programs are cancelled in case of rain. Check magazinebeach.org/events.

July 2, 2019 - Investigation into June 2016 Fatal Bike Collision in Cambridge Complete (Middlesex County District Attorney's Office)
Excerpt from the Summary Statement: "Under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 90 Section 14, Mr.---, the operator of the Jeep, had a responsibility to open his door only when it was reasonably safe to do so without interfering with the movement of other traffic, including bicyclists and pedestrians. Based on the video evidence provided by CAM14, it appears that Mr.--- opened his door just before Ms. Phillips, the bicyclist, struck it, limiting the time available to her to take action to avoid the collision. Despite this, Mr.--- stated that he checked his mirrors before opening the door and that his view was clear. The witnesses to this crash indicate that Ms. Phillips jumped the curb and entered the roadway from behind the Jeep. The video evidence provided by CAM16 appears to corroborate these statements. This lends credibility to Mr.---’s statement that his view was clear. Had his attention been directed toward the driver’s side rear of his vehicle at the same time Ms. Phillips jumped the curb, Ms. Phillips would likely have been positioned off the roadway or on the passenger side of the Jeep, not apparently approaching the driver’s side of the Jeep. Consequently, Mr.---’s view likely would have been clear, as he stated. Taking into consideration the speed at which Ms. Phillips was travelling reinforces the conclusion that this crash was likely unavoidable on the part of Mr.---, the operator of the Jeep. Under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 85 Section 11B, bicyclists are only authorized operation on sidewalks outside business districts when necessary in the interest of safety. This collision likely could have been avoided had Ms. Phillips rode her bicycle consistently in the rightmost travel lane as directed by the painted markings on the road surface and did not jump the curb onto the sidewalk as was prohibited. This would have made her more visible to other persons in the area, including Mr.--- and allowed him to take precautions for safety accordingly.

Enjoy Summer Fun in Cambridge with Screen on the Green Family Movies, Arts in the Park,
Danehy Park Concerts, City Dance Party, Summer in the City, and Danehy Park Family Day

The City of Cambridge is hosting an array of free, interactive, multicultural community events and programs this summer, including the ever-popular City Dance Party, Arts in the Park, Screen on the Green Family Movie Nights, Danehy Park Concert Series, Summer in the City, and culminating with Danehy Park Family Day in September.

Screen on the Green – The Department of Human Service Programs’ Recreation, Youth and Community Schools Divisions are presenting Family Movie Nights at Cambridge parks on Wednesdays at 7pm, from July 3-Aug 7, 2019. Prior to the start of the movies on the big screen at dusk, attendees will enjoy music, performances and a nutritious meal for community members 18 years and under.

Summer Food Program – The City's Summer Food Program offers children 18 and under a nutritious lunch, exercise, and activities. The program has partnered with the Cambridge Book Bike which provides books and storytelling at selected parks during lunchtime.

Arts in the Park – The Department of Human Service Programs’ Community Schools Division organizes free art activities, community potlucks and entertainment in Cambridge neighborhood parks from 10am-12pm on select days, as well as some evenings throughout the summer. Activities include visual arts, theater, dance, storytelling, and magic performances by a diverse group of local artists. The Department of Human Service Programs has just published an online guide to the above three summer programs, highlighting locations, days, times, and other pertinent information of events at neighborhood parks throughout Cambridge.

City Dance Party – Join thousands of Cambridge residents and visitors who will gather on Massachusetts Avenue in front of Cambridge City Hall (795 Massachusetts Ave.) for the city’s annual Dance Party Friday, June 28, from 7-11pm. This event is free and open to the public. Take MBTA Red Line to Central Square and a short walk to City Hall!

Danehy Park Concert Series – Enjoy free live concerts at Danehy Park, 99 Sherman St., on Tuesdays, from July 2 to August 6, from 6-8pm.

Summer in the City – July 1-Aug 31. Each summer, Cambridge parks come alive with music, dance, storytelling, theater, puppetry, movies and more! Cambridge Arts' Summer in the City program offers a wide array of FREE, multicultural, interactive arts programs, performances, and activities both day and night for children, families, and the entire community at Cambridge Parks and Public Spaces.

Danehy Park Family Day – Saturday, Sept 14 from 11am-4pm. Enjoy a fun-filled day of children's amusement rides, live music, roving performers, arts and crafts, face painting, plus free hot dogs, chips, juice boxes, and more!

2019 Municipal Election: Nomination Papers

Nomination papers for City Council and School Committee will be available beginning Monday, July 1st at the Election Commission office, 51 Inman Street, Cambridge. The office will be open on Monday, July 1st from 8:30am until 8:00pm. The deadline to file nomination papers is Wednesday, July 31st at 5:00pm. The 2019 Municipal Election Calendar is posted on the Commission’s website: www.cambridgema.gov/election.
[Also on the Cambridge Candidate Pages]

The requirements to run for City Council or School Committee are:

1. The person must be a registered voter in Cambridge. To register, one must be 18 years of age by Election Day, a U.S. citizen and a resident in the City of Cambridge.

2. The person must file no fewer than fifty (50) and no more than one hundred (100) certifiable signatures of registered voters in the City of Cambridge.

NOTE: Candidates should make absolutely sure that all required information is filled in on nomination papers and notarized BEFORE collecting signatures.

The Commission has prepared an information kit for candidates containing important dates, Commission policies, services and publications. The kits will be available with the nomination papers on July 1st.

Election Day is Tuesday, November 5, 2019.

List of Candidates who pulled nomination papers

City Council: Nolan, McNary, Williams, Pascual-Navarro, Toner, Siddiqui, Zondervan, McGovern, Musgrave, Akiba, Kelley, Acevedo, Desir, Azeem, Kopon, Simmons, Mallon, Moree, Franklin, Courtney, Dietrich, Danila, E. Taylor, A. Taylor, Carlone, Simon (July 8), Sobrinho-Wheeler (July 9), Toomey (July 16), Roberts (July 16), Pitkin (July 22), Usmani (July 22), Mednick (July 24), Ilan Levy (July 26)

School Committee: Wilson, Fantini, Dawson, Kelly, Lim, Bowman, Kadete, Dexter (July 10), David Weinstein (July 11), Rojas Villarreal (July 22), Rachel Weinstein (July 24), Ruth Ryan Allen (July 31)

Note: As of the July 31 deadline there will be 22 City Council candidates and 11 School Committee candidates.

July 17, 2019 - John Pitkin has scheduled his campaign kickoff for Wed, July 24.

June 11, 2019 - Patty Nolan has announced her candidacy for Cambridge City Council.

June 22, 2019 - New City Council candidates emerging (originally posted May 7)

Eight incumbents (assuming nobody else exits) are likely to seek reelection and will be joined by a number of challengers. Here's the list so far:

Nomination papers will be available from the Cambridge Election Commission beginning Monday, July 1.

Candidates must submit a minimum of 50 valid signatures no later than Wednesday, July 31 at 5:00pm.

Candidates may not submit more than 100 signatures.

Cambridge Candidate Pages (updated as new candidates are identified)

2019 Cambridge City Council Campaign Bank Reports
You can sort the table by any field or open the full spreadsheet which will be frequently updated.

Members Sought for Cambridge's Open Data Review Board

Cambridge City Manager Louis A. DePasquale is seeking to fill vacancies on Cambridge’s Open Data Review Board and is looking for representatives from public, private, academic, or nonprofit sectors with expertise in or relevant experience with Open Data.

The city’s Open Data Program makes government data easily available in useful formats, and is intended to increase transparency, foster engagement among residents, and create new opportunities for collaboration between Cambridge and the public.

The Review Board, comprised of at least three residents and four or more city employees, will meet quarterly to help ensure that the program balances its goals of transparency and accessibility with the city’s obligation to protect private, confidential, and sensitive information.

The Board will make recommendations to the City Manager and Open Data Program Manager on policies, rules, and standards related to Cambridge’s Open Data Program, including methods for determining the appropriate level of accessibility for new datasets and timelines for making new datasets available. Specifically, the Review Board will help answer the following questions:

What privacy and security standards should Cambridge adopt as it assesses potential open datasets? - What data quality and standards should be in place to ensure the accuracy of its oewn open datasets in order to improve City operations? - How might Cambridge align open data initiatives with the city's other strategic initiatives? - How should Cambridge engage and educate the broader community— including residents, businesses, and research institutions—to maximize use of the city's open data? - How might Cambridge partner with other municipalities, government entities, and institutions in the open data space? - How should Cambridge market the open data program internally to improve participation among city departments?

The deadline for submitting applications is Friday, August 2, 2019. Applications can be submitted to City Manager Louis A. DePasquale using the City’s online application system at cambridgema.gov/apply. A cover letter and resume or applicable experience can be submitted during the online application process. Paper applications are available in the City Manager’s Office at Cambridge City Hall, 795 Massachusetts Avenue.

For more information about this board, contact Josh Wolff, jwolff@cambridgema.gov.

Submit Your Cambridge Improvement Project Ideas
June 1 - July 31, 2019 for Participatory Budgeting Process

The City of Cambridge is once again inviting residents to submit project ideas to improve Cambridge as part of its sixth Participatory Budgeting (PB) cycle. Participatory Budgeting is a democratic process in which community members directly decide how to spend part of the capital budget. Volunteer Budget Delegates will help develop the best ideas into concrete proposals to be voted on by the community in December.

For this next process, the City will set aside $1,000,000 for capital projects to improve the community. Winning projects from past PB cycles include a public toilet in Central Square, musical instruments for CRLS, a freezer van for prepared food rescue, solar panels for the Main Library roof, water bottle fill stations, and many others.

Tell us what kinds of capital projects you would invest in by submitting your ideas from June 1 through July 31, 2019 online at pb.cambridgema.gov or by contacting the Budget Office at (617) 349-4270 or pb@cambridgema.gov.

Cambridge Police Seeking Assistance Identifying Suspect Following Morning Assault

Image of Suspect CPD is Looking to Identify/Locate

The Cambridge Police are seeking to identify and/or locate the suspect pictured in the attachment after they were witnessed yelling at and striking a woman with a phone. The suspect then reportedly grabbed and unsuccessfully attempted to pull her stroller, which was carrying the woman's 1-year-old child. This occured in the area of Harvard Street near Prospect Street this morning at approximately 9:40 a.m.  The suspect was described as a white male in their late 20s wearing a multi-colored hat, green shirt, khaki shorts, brown backpack and he was barefoot at the time of the incident. He fled in the direction of Inman Street toward Central Square when witnesses lost sight of him. The woman and child refused medical attention. Anyone with any information is asked to call 617-349-3300. Those who wish to submit tips anonymously via phone, text message or e-mail, can visit http://www.cambridgema.gov/cpd/communityresources/anonymouscrimetips.

Alert sent on 07/09/2019 at 14:40 EDT

Update (July 15): The Cambridge Police Department today announced they have identified the suspect wanted in conjunction with an assault that occurred last Tuesday, July 9 in the area of Harvard Street and Prospect Street. Warrants were secured by the Cambridge Police Department out of Cambridge District Court for the arrest of a 34-year-old Somerville resident on multiple charges, including Attempting to Commit a Crime, Assault and Battery, Kidnapping and Assault to Commit a Felony. He is currently undergoing a medical evaluation after being admitted to a local hospital. Due to these circumstances, his identity and the name of the hospital are not being disclosed at this time.

During the course of the investigation, members of the Cambridge, Arlington and Somerville communities shared several tips about this case with the Cambridge Police Department. These tips were instrumental in assisting Detectives identify and develop probable cause to charge the suspect. The Cambridge Police Department also received assistance from the Somerville, Arlington, Harvard University, and MIT Police Departments on this case.

A court date for the suspect has not been determined at this time.