Cyclist peddles a dream: Boston-S.F. path
Cyclist peddles a dream: Boston-S.F. path - The Boston Globe: "But one thing that is bumming Martin out lately is Boston. The city -- again voted one of the three worst cities in the nation for biking by Bicycling Magazine this year "
Transportation report delayed till after Nov. election
Transportation report delayed till after Nov. election - The Boston Globe: "A boost in the gas tax, new tolls on state highways, rush-hour toll increases, or other politically unpopular proposals could all end up being recommendations of the commission, which is almost certain to conclude that Massachusetts cannot continue to adequately pay for its highways, mass transit systems, bridges, and other transportation infrastructure without a significant infusion of new money.
So far candidates for governor have been largely silent on these issues, which some observers argue deserve a frank discussion."
So far candidates for governor have been largely silent on these issues, which some observers argue deserve a frank discussion."
Charles River's water earns a B-plus
Charles River's water earns a B-plus in health - The Boston Globe: "Officials said the Charles River met boating standards 97 percent of the time and swimming standards 50 percent of the time in 2005."
The Art Newspaper -- Harvard to overhaul its art museums and build a new facility for modern and contemporary art
The Art Newspaper -- News
I don't think there is any new news in this, just a different perspective on the upcoming art activities by Harvard in Allston.
Harvard University Art Museums (HUAM) have announced an ambitious multi-phase plan to renovate and consolidate the Fogg, the Busch-Reisinger, and Arthur M. Sackler museums complex in Cambridge, Massachusetts, and to establish a second site across the Charles River in Allston.
I don't think there is any new news in this, just a different perspective on the upcoming art activities by Harvard in Allston.
Harvard University Art Museums (HUAM) have announced an ambitious multi-phase plan to renovate and consolidate the Fogg, the Busch-Reisinger, and Arthur M. Sackler museums complex in Cambridge, Massachusetts, and to establish a second site across the Charles River in Allston.
Family fortunes - Boston Business Journal:
Family fortunes - Boston Business Journal:
A profile of Allston-based Houghton Chemical Corp.
A profile of Allston-based Houghton Chemical Corp.
Russian Jews spur new immigrant voter coalition
Russian Jews spur new immigrant voter coalition
The political clout of Boston’s Russian Jewish community is serving as an inspiration for a new group that aims to unite Boston’s many immigrant communities into a powerful voting block.
This past year's Boston City Council elections provided a glimpse into how responsive political leaders are to the Russian Jewish community, which is concentrated in the Allston-Brighton area of Boston. Every candidate, including Mayor Thomas Menino, held meetings with members of the community, and Allston councilor Jerry McDermott frequently liaises with Bologov and other community leaders.
The political clout of Boston’s Russian Jewish community is serving as an inspiration for a new group that aims to unite Boston’s many immigrant communities into a powerful voting block.
This past year's Boston City Council elections provided a glimpse into how responsive political leaders are to the Russian Jewish community, which is concentrated in the Allston-Brighton area of Boston. Every candidate, including Mayor Thomas Menino, held meetings with members of the community, and Allston councilor Jerry McDermott frequently liaises with Bologov and other community leaders.
AllstonRocks.com
Check out this new website to promote the local music and artist scene. Music video contest coming soon.
http://www.allstonrocks.com/
http://www.allstonrocks.com/
How many city councilors does it take to flout the law?
How many city councilors does it take to flout the law? - The Boston Globe: "Fed up with what they say was the repeated flouting by councilors of state law requiring them to conduct the public's business in public, three Boston residents filed suit last May against the council. In the end, with the nervy residents even acting as their own lawyers against the assembled might of the city law department, the case wasn't a fair fight: The citizen-litigators thrashed the council from top to bottomous."
Brighton library to get $2.6 million facelift
TownOnline.com - Local News: Library to get $2.6 million facelift: "The 37-year-old Brighton branch public library on Academy Hill Road is expected to receive a $2.5 million makeover this year, what many agree is a much-needed project.
The third highest in the city in materials circulation, the library will be closed for a year, and area residents are asked to use the Faneuil branch library on Oak Square or the Honan-Allston library on North Harvard Street.
The new building should be completed within one-and-a-half years and will boast new walls, windows, an elevator and ramps for full accessibility."
The third highest in the city in materials circulation, the library will be closed for a year, and area residents are asked to use the Faneuil branch library on Oak Square or the Honan-Allston library on North Harvard Street.
The new building should be completed within one-and-a-half years and will boast new walls, windows, an elevator and ramps for full accessibility."
Two shot in Allston as gun violence rises
TownOnline.com - Local News: Two shot in Allston as gun violence rises: "Two Allston residents were shot April 7, one in the face and another in chest, according to a police report. Both are expected to survive their injuries.
District 14 officers responded to Lincoln and Antwerp streets for reports of a person shot Friday at 1:34 a.m. On arrival, officers found a 28-year-old man from Allston shot in the face.
Minutes later, officers found a second Allston victim at 16 Lawrence St. with a gunshot wound to the chest."
District 14 officers responded to Lincoln and Antwerp streets for reports of a person shot Friday at 1:34 a.m. On arrival, officers found a 28-year-old man from Allston shot in the face.
Minutes later, officers found a second Allston victim at 16 Lawrence St. with a gunshot wound to the chest."
BIKINI-CLAD BEAUTY STICKS UP FOR CHICKENS IN ALLSTON
PETA Media Center > Recent News Releases : BIKINI-CLAD BEAUTY STICKS UP FOR CHICKENS IN ALLSTON
Allston, Mass. Wearing nothing but a yellow bikini and holding a sign that reads, 'KFC Tortures Chicks,' sultry PETA member Lindsay Rajt will lead a protest outside a local KFC restaurant over KFC suppliers' abusive treatment of chickens in factory farms and slaughterhouses while other PETA members hand out leaflets.
Did anyone see this protest?
Allston, Mass. Wearing nothing but a yellow bikini and holding a sign that reads, 'KFC Tortures Chicks,' sultry PETA member Lindsay Rajt will lead a protest outside a local KFC restaurant over KFC suppliers' abusive treatment of chickens in factory farms and slaughterhouses while other PETA members hand out leaflets.
Did anyone see this protest?
Harvard's Allston Chief Ready to Build
The Harvard Crimson :: News :: Allston Chief Ready to Build
Profile of Christopher Gordon, Harvard’s top Allston official
After years of planning, the University took its first concrete steps into Allston this semester when it announced the location of the first structure to be built in the new campus�a massive 500,000 square-foot science complex that will house the Harvard Stem Cell Institute.
University officials said on Monday they hope to ask Boston by the end of April for permission to build.
Profile of Christopher Gordon, Harvard’s top Allston official
After years of planning, the University took its first concrete steps into Allston this semester when it announced the location of the first structure to be built in the new campus�a massive 500,000 square-foot science complex that will house the Harvard Stem Cell Institute.
University officials said on Monday they hope to ask Boston by the end of April for permission to build.
Extreme Makeover: Harvard Stadium
The Harvard Crimson :: News :: Extreme Makeover: Harvard Stadium: "The planned developments include replacing the grass field with a synthetic surface, installing lights on the stadium's exterior, and providing for the implementation of a seasonal "bubble." "
Neighborhoods May Limit New Restaurants
Neighborhood Prohibitionists May Limit New Restaurants - New York Times:
Community boards in the East Village, the Lower East Side and elsewhere, fed up with noise and traffic, are so aggressively using their power to try to block or delay liquor licenses that some in the restaurant business say they are thinking much harder about opening new places in these parts of town. Profits from wine and liquor can be crucial to the success of a restaurant, especially a new one.
Last month, the Assembly speaker, Sheldon Silver, who represents lower Manhattan, introduced a bill that would eliminate the exemptions from what is called the "500-foot rule." This rule, which became part of the State Liquor Authority regulations in 1993, prohibits the granting of a new full liquor license to an establishment that is within 500 feet of three other licensed bars or restaurants.
Community boards in the East Village, the Lower East Side and elsewhere, fed up with noise and traffic, are so aggressively using their power to try to block or delay liquor licenses that some in the restaurant business say they are thinking much harder about opening new places in these parts of town. Profits from wine and liquor can be crucial to the success of a restaurant, especially a new one.
Last month, the Assembly speaker, Sheldon Silver, who represents lower Manhattan, introduced a bill that would eliminate the exemptions from what is called the "500-foot rule." This rule, which became part of the State Liquor Authority regulations in 1993, prohibits the granting of a new full liquor license to an establishment that is within 500 feet of three other licensed bars or restaurants.
In Allston and Brighton the issue is not about new licenses but transfers of existing ones. Even still, a density limitation like this could be interesting to consider, especially near residential areas.
Tight Hub budget keeps cop ranks thin
Tight Hub budget keeps cop ranks thin
Mayor Thomas M. Menino blamed soaring health and utility costs for hemming in his proposed budget next year, which calls for modest increases in school and police spending.
Overall city spending would jump $87.9 million, or 4.3 percent more than this year’s budget. But increases in state aid and $10 million more in lottery money are largely gobbled up by a $23 million increase in health insurance, and rising utility and personnel costs.
Menino said there were no “fancy programs” in his spending plan, which heads to the City Council for approval. He promised to use new technologies like expanding GPS use in snowplows and street cleaners and install new accountability standards. New positions are being created for a citywide director of recreation, chief information officer and a chief of the soon-to-be-merged Transportation and Public Works departments.
Mayor Thomas M. Menino blamed soaring health and utility costs for hemming in his proposed budget next year, which calls for modest increases in school and police spending.
Overall city spending would jump $87.9 million, or 4.3 percent more than this year’s budget. But increases in state aid and $10 million more in lottery money are largely gobbled up by a $23 million increase in health insurance, and rising utility and personnel costs.
Menino said there were no “fancy programs” in his spending plan, which heads to the City Council for approval. He promised to use new technologies like expanding GPS use in snowplows and street cleaners and install new accountability standards. New positions are being created for a citywide director of recreation, chief information officer and a chief of the soon-to-be-merged Transportation and Public Works departments.
Taste of Allston Village - May 2
Allston Village Main Streets, New Balance, and the Improper Bostonian present the 9th annual Taste of Allston Village.
Come sample flavors from around the world presented by over 20 local Allston eateries including Aneka Rasa Malaysian Cuisine, Bazaar on Cambridge, Big City, Burritos on Fire, Café Belo, Café Brazil, Carlo’s Cucina Italiana, Double Tree/Boathouse Grille, Grasshopper, Herrell’s Allston Café, Infusions Tea Spa, The Kells Asian Cuisine, Kouzina Express, Rangoli, Seoul Bakery, Shaw’s Supermarket, Sumi, Sunset Grill & Tap, V Majestic and Yi Soon Bakery.
Staples will also be giving away FREE large-format color prints to all attendees (bring a file or say “cheese!”).
Live music will be provided by jazz pianist Adam Pepper.
The Taste of Allston takes place Tuesday, May 2 from 6-8pm at the Double Tree Guest Suites, 400 Soldiers Field Road, Allston.
Tickets are $25 or $200 for 10 in advance, or $30 at the door.
For more information call 617-254-7564 or contact Erin at kozy2323@hotmail.com
Come sample flavors from around the world presented by over 20 local Allston eateries including Aneka Rasa Malaysian Cuisine, Bazaar on Cambridge, Big City, Burritos on Fire, Café Belo, Café Brazil, Carlo’s Cucina Italiana, Double Tree/Boathouse Grille, Grasshopper, Herrell’s Allston Café, Infusions Tea Spa, The Kells Asian Cuisine, Kouzina Express, Rangoli, Seoul Bakery, Shaw’s Supermarket, Sumi, Sunset Grill & Tap, V Majestic and Yi Soon Bakery.
Staples will also be giving away FREE large-format color prints to all attendees (bring a file or say “cheese!”).
Live music will be provided by jazz pianist Adam Pepper.
The Taste of Allston takes place Tuesday, May 2 from 6-8pm at the Double Tree Guest Suites, 400 Soldiers Field Road, Allston.
Tickets are $25 or $200 for 10 in advance, or $30 at the door.
For more information call 617-254-7564 or contact Erin at kozy2323@hotmail.com
Turnpike agrees good fence will make good neighbors - The Boston Globe
Turnpike agrees good fence will make good neighbors - The Boston Globe: "After a winter of frustration, a thorn in the side of many residents of north Allston and Brighton is on its way to being removed. Following a meeting at the Honan-Allston library last month, the Massachusetts Turnpike Authority has agreed to scrap the damaged wooden snow fence between the westbound lanes of the highway and Lincoln Street and replace it with a permanent sound barrier fence."
Fittingly, the past is preserved as a secondhand store relocates - The Boston Globe
Fittingly, the past is preserved as a secondhand store relocates - The Boston Globe: "To fans of previously owned books, music, and movies in Allston Village, the sight of a van filling up with the contents of Disk'overy on Brighton Avenue recently was not a good sign. A closer look, though, revealed that the 25-year-old shop was not dying, just relocating: Handwritten notices said the business was moving to Oak Square, where it reopened April 1 at 569 Washington St."
Two shot in Hub within minutes as gun violence continues rise
BostonHerald.com - Local / Regional News: Two shot in Hub within minutes as gun violence continues rise: "An Allston man was shot in the face yesterday, and another man was shot in the chest minutes later, two shootings that added to the city's skyrocketing number of victims of gun violence. "
Grant opportunities
Grant opportunities: "The Allston/Brighton-Boston College Community Fund Committee has announced that applications for $2,500 grants for Spring 2006 will be available beginning April 7. "
New affordable housing project
AB launches new affordable housing project - News
Reacting to an influx of Boston University students renting off-campus apartments in areas surrounding BU, the Allston Brighton Community Development Corporation commissioned a series of renovations on Glenville Avenue designed to provide additional housing for low-income residents forced to compete with college students.
The ABCDC is currently remodeling apartment buildings at 48-52 Glenville Ave. which will be rented out to families who make less than $23,832 -- sixty percent of the annual median income in the Boston area, according to John Woods, director of housing development for the ABCDC. Woods said the group will also be constructing units for families who make as little as $5,958, 15 percent of the annual median income.
BU administrators are aware of this increase and plan to construct a second Student Village dormitory, scheduled for completion by Fall 2008, to house an additional 900 undergraduate students, said Marc Robillard, director of housing at BU.
Reacting to an influx of Boston University students renting off-campus apartments in areas surrounding BU, the Allston Brighton Community Development Corporation commissioned a series of renovations on Glenville Avenue designed to provide additional housing for low-income residents forced to compete with college students.
The ABCDC is currently remodeling apartment buildings at 48-52 Glenville Ave. which will be rented out to families who make less than $23,832 -- sixty percent of the annual median income in the Boston area, according to John Woods, director of housing development for the ABCDC. Woods said the group will also be constructing units for families who make as little as $5,958, 15 percent of the annual median income.
BU administrators are aware of this increase and plan to construct a second Student Village dormitory, scheduled for completion by Fall 2008, to house an additional 900 undergraduate students, said Marc Robillard, director of housing at BU.
We have a Senate race!
After great soul-searching, I have decided to suspend my campaign for D.A. and to seek re-election to the state Senate. In the Senate, I have strived to provide leadership on public-safety issues and serve as a voice for people who need a strong advocate. Moving forward, my priorities are cracking down on domestic violence and identity theft, addressing bullying and violence in schools, and advancing progressive priorities on a variety of other issues.
Of course, I will have to run for re-election in a field with several challengers. I will be going door-to-door throughout my Senate district, asking my constituents for their vote so that I may continue working for them on Beacon Hill. I hope to count on your continued support.
Again, I want you to know how much I appreciate the commitment you have made to me and my career in public service. Thank you.
Sincerely,
Jarrett
Of course, I will have to run for re-election in a field with several challengers. I will be going door-to-door throughout my Senate district, asking my constituents for their vote so that I may continue working for them on Beacon Hill. I hope to count on your continued support.
Again, I want you to know how much I appreciate the commitment you have made to me and my career in public service. Thank you.
Sincerely,
Jarrett
Online Building Permit Applications
Sorry, this isn't available in Boston yet, but it is possible in New Orleans.
Barrios thinking of entering Senate race
Barrios thinking of dropping out of race for DA, Democrat says - The Boston Globe: "State Senator Jarrett T. Barrios is weighing whether to end his campaign to become Middlesex district attorney and instead seek reelection in his Cambridge-based district, a senior Democratic leader confirmed last night."
His "Cambridge based district" also includes 15,000 people in Allston and Brighton
"Slow Down Boston" signs
Who says driving here is crazy? Everyone - The Boston Globe
John Tobin, a district councilor from West Roxbury, is printing hundreds of red-and-white signs that say, "Slow Down Boston," and is mounting a campaign to reverse a half-century of bad habits. Paying for the printing of 500 signs with campaign funds, Tobin said he'll provide them free of charge to anyone willing to post them along problem streets.
City officials are also drafting a traffic-calming plan, he said, but are proceeding slowly to avoid mistakes. While speed bumps slow traffic, he said, they can also cause accidents. Drivers could lose control and veer into other cars or jump the curb and endanger pedestrians on the sidewalk. Devices that flash motorists' speed can actually tempt drivers to speed up, he said.
"We put a speed board on Commonwealth Avenue, and people were seeing how high they could get the numbers," Tinlin said.
John Tobin, a district councilor from West Roxbury, is printing hundreds of red-and-white signs that say, "Slow Down Boston," and is mounting a campaign to reverse a half-century of bad habits. Paying for the printing of 500 signs with campaign funds, Tobin said he'll provide them free of charge to anyone willing to post them along problem streets.
City officials are also drafting a traffic-calming plan, he said, but are proceeding slowly to avoid mistakes. While speed bumps slow traffic, he said, they can also cause accidents. Drivers could lose control and veer into other cars or jump the curb and endanger pedestrians on the sidewalk. Devices that flash motorists' speed can actually tempt drivers to speed up, he said.
"We put a speed board on Commonwealth Avenue, and people were seeing how high they could get the numbers," Tinlin said.
I wonder what type of speed board the city was using. Many types of these have a "maximum display speed" like this one made by 3M. Hopefully next time the city tries this they will use a more full-featured model.
You can contact Councilor Tobin at John.Tobin@cityofboston.gov to request a sign.
Affordable housing coming soon
TownOnline.com - Local News: Affordable housing coming soon
The Allston Brighton Community Development Corporation has obtained $2 million in state grants to help families realize the dream of homeownership at the Long-Glen affordable homeownership project on Glenville Avenue.
The Allston Brighton Community Development Corporation has obtained $2 million in state grants to help families realize the dream of homeownership at the Long-Glen affordable homeownership project on Glenville Avenue.
Vehicle break ins decline in Allston
A crime of opportunity finds its niche - The Boston Globe: "Motor vehicle larcenies were down in Dorchester, Roslindale, and Allston-Brighton, neighborhoods where police said they have increased their presence near parking lots and alleyways."
DiMasi delivers blow to slots bill
DiMasi delivers blow to slots bill - The Boston Globe
Cheers to Speaker DiMasi!
"It comes with a cost, a social cost, as well," DiMasi said "I'm not sure at this particular juncture that I would put all my eggs in one basket and turn to gaming for the revenues I want to see this economy grow."
Cheers to Speaker DiMasi!
"It comes with a cost, a social cost, as well," DiMasi said "I'm not sure at this particular juncture that I would put all my eggs in one basket and turn to gaming for the revenues I want to see this economy grow."
Kevin McCrea & others v. Michael Flaherty and the Boston City Council
Here is a link to the Suffolk Superior Court decision about the closed, private meetings held by the City Council on subjects of urban renewal, zoning, and public health. The Council was found to have created systems to "intentionally avoid complying with the Open Meetings Law."
The public health meeting was with Boston University officials to discuss a tularemia exposure incident on January 20, 2005. Tularemia is bad stuff. Here is what the Centers for Disease Control says about it:
The Massachusetts Open Meeting Law "mandates that all meetings of a government body be open to the public and that no quorum of a governmental body meeting in private for the purpose od deciding or deliberating toward a decision on any matter." You can read more about this law at the League of Women Voters website.
Too bad that our City Council conducts its business like Dick Cheney's secret energy task force.
The public health meeting was with Boston University officials to discuss a tularemia exposure incident on January 20, 2005. Tularemia is bad stuff. Here is what the Centers for Disease Control says about it:
Francisella tularensis is very infectious. A small number (10-50 or so organisms) can cause disease. If F. tularensis were used as a weapon, the bacteria would likely be made airborne for exposure by inhalation. People who inhale an infectious aerosol would generally experience severe respiratory illness, including life-threatening pneumonia and systemic infection, if they are not treated.Sounds like that if this is getting loose in Boston the public deserves to understand if we are at risk.
The Massachusetts Open Meeting Law "mandates that all meetings of a government body be open to the public and that no quorum of a governmental body meeting in private for the purpose od deciding or deliberating toward a decision on any matter." You can read more about this law at the League of Women Voters website.
Too bad that our City Council conducts its business like Dick Cheney's secret energy task force.
Boston City Council fined for breaking open meeting law
Council fined for breaking meeting law - The Boston Globe
The Boston City Council violated the state Open Meeting Law 11 times over a period of almost two years, a superior court judge ruled yesterday, imposing $11,000 in fines and ordering the body to obey the law or face further action by the district attorney.
In a scathing 20-page ruling, Suffolk Superior Court Judge Nancy Staffier Holtz said the City Council had intentionally violated the law, which is designed to let the public view and participate in governmental decision-making. She said the council also had concocted flimsy excuses for the violations.
The Boston City Council violated the state Open Meeting Law 11 times over a period of almost two years, a superior court judge ruled yesterday, imposing $11,000 in fines and ordering the body to obey the law or face further action by the district attorney.
In a scathing 20-page ruling, Suffolk Superior Court Judge Nancy Staffier Holtz said the City Council had intentionally violated the law, which is designed to let the public view and participate in governmental decision-making. She said the council also had concocted flimsy excuses for the violations.
Despite 9/11 Effect, Railyards Are Still Vulnerable
Despite 9/11 Effect, Railyards Are Still Vulnerable - New York Times
This story is about railyard security in New Jersey, but how much safer is the huge railyard in Allston?
This story is about railyard security in New Jersey, but how much safer is the huge railyard in Allston?
New team is battling to tag out the taggers
New team is battling to tag out the taggers - The Boston Globe
Jamaica Plain Anti-Graffiti Bank strives to keep it out of sight
Jamaica Plain Anti-Graffiti Bank strives to keep it out of sight
Saving a tradition - St. Anthony's Minstrel Show
TownOnline.com - Allston-Brighton TAB: Saving a tradition
Antonelli and a handful of other local volunteers are responsible for getting all the parts together and onto the stage tomorrow through Monday for the 105th St. Anthony's Minstrel Show.
It has not been an easy year for the venerable neighborhood show. The school that hosts it was closed by the Boston Archdiocese last year, and the cast numbers have fallen dramatically this season. But they are a committed crew, coming together to rehearse every Friday and Sunday from early January to late March to ensure that the show goes on.
Antonelli and a handful of other local volunteers are responsible for getting all the parts together and onto the stage tomorrow through Monday for the 105th St. Anthony's Minstrel Show.
It has not been an easy year for the venerable neighborhood show. The school that hosts it was closed by the Boston Archdiocese last year, and the cast numbers have fallen dramatically this season. But they are a committed crew, coming together to rehearse every Friday and Sunday from early January to late March to ensure that the show goes on.
Welcome to The BC
Welcome to The BC
A spoof of FOX's "The OC", The BC tells the story of a troubled Boston University student who gets in trouble with the law and his only hope lies with a priest who takes him into Boston College.
A spoof of FOX's "The OC", The BC tells the story of a troubled Boston University student who gets in trouble with the law and his only hope lies with a priest who takes him into Boston College.
BC to help run St. Columbkille elementary school
BC to help run ailing elementary school - The Boston Globe
Boston College announced yesterday that it will run St. Columbkille School with the Catholic Archdiocese of Boston starting in September, a bid to ensure the survival of the only parochial school left in the Allston-Brighton area while the future of urban Catholic schools remains in jeopardy nationwide.
Boston College announced yesterday that it will run St. Columbkille School with the Catholic Archdiocese of Boston starting in September, a bid to ensure the survival of the only parochial school left in the Allston-Brighton area while the future of urban Catholic schools remains in jeopardy nationwide.
5 Charged In Alleged Identity Theft Scheme
More on this story from the March 21 Boston Globe
TheBostonChannel.com - 5 Charged In Alleged Identity Theft Scheme: "Five people appeared in court Monday to face a variety of charges after they were arrested in connection with an alleged identity theft ring. Beginning on Jan. 26 and continued to date, the company has delivered, via FedEx, 22 cameras and one cell phone with a total value of about $20,000 to 35 Allston St., Apt. 1 in Brighton," prosecutor Michelle Kalowski said. The five defendants were allegedly recruited in a Russian chat room and were paid $50 per package received. The defendants were released, but they had to surrender their passports.
TheBostonChannel.com - 5 Charged In Alleged Identity Theft Scheme: "Five people appeared in court Monday to face a variety of charges after they were arrested in connection with an alleged identity theft ring. Beginning on Jan. 26 and continued to date, the company has delivered, via FedEx, 22 cameras and one cell phone with a total value of about $20,000 to 35 Allston St., Apt. 1 in Brighton," prosecutor Michelle Kalowski said. The five defendants were allegedly recruited in a Russian chat room and were paid $50 per package received. The defendants were released, but they had to surrender their passports.
Alliance of Boston Neighborhoods
Alliance of Boston Neighborhoods: "Promoting communication and citizen participation for the neighborhoods of Boston"
Shifting gears, group merges transit message
Shifting gears, group merges transit message - The Boston Globe: "Usually, when advocates for non-car-based transportation try to get something done -- better bike paths, say, or improved mass transit -- they go it alone. But now, a new advocacy group called the LivableStreets Alliance is pledging to tie all of those interests together."
Police charge five in connection with identity theft scheme
Eyewitness News - Police charge five in connection with identity theft scheme: "Police charge five in connection with identity theft scheme
BOSTON Boston police arrest five people in connection with an identity theft scheme.
Investigators got a tip from a New Jersey-based camera company that they had delivered cameras and a cell phone worth about 20-thousand dollars to 35 Allston Street in Allston. Police say the identities of at least seven different people were used to get the credit to buy the equipment.
BOSTON Boston police arrest five people in connection with an identity theft scheme.
Investigators got a tip from a New Jersey-based camera company that they had delivered cameras and a cell phone worth about 20-thousand dollars to 35 Allston Street in Allston. Police say the identities of at least seven different people were used to get the credit to buy the equipment.
What public pressure can get done
What an amazing turnaround! On Friday the brigde was going to be closed indefinately. By Saturday the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority agreed to make temporary repairs to keep the bridge open.
Story in Saturday's Globe
Crumbling Echo Bridge gets quick fix - The Boston Globe
Bowing to public pressure, the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority will reopen Echo Bridge in Newton Monday with temporary railings to prevent people from falling off the 60-foot-high structure. The temporary 4-foot high wooden snow fence will remain there until up to $1 million can be raised for permanent railings. The state agency, which owns the 129-year-old arched stone bridge, had planned to close the walkway due to safety concerns over the cast-iron handrails, which are cracked, rusted, or missing. While it will be closed over the weekend, the pedestrian bridge will reopen next week.
The authority decided to keep the bridge open because of pressure from preservationists and state Representative Ruth B. Balser, a Newton Democrat.
Story from Friday's Globe
Landmark becomes bridge to nowhere
The landmark retains its trademark echo. But the 129-year-old arched stone bridge is no longer a scenic link between Newton and Needham over the Charles River. Echo Bridge is scheduled to be closed today, indefinitely, due to safety reasons.
Story in Saturday's Globe
Crumbling Echo Bridge gets quick fix - The Boston Globe
Bowing to public pressure, the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority will reopen Echo Bridge in Newton Monday with temporary railings to prevent people from falling off the 60-foot-high structure. The temporary 4-foot high wooden snow fence will remain there until up to $1 million can be raised for permanent railings. The state agency, which owns the 129-year-old arched stone bridge, had planned to close the walkway due to safety concerns over the cast-iron handrails, which are cracked, rusted, or missing. While it will be closed over the weekend, the pedestrian bridge will reopen next week.
The authority decided to keep the bridge open because of pressure from preservationists and state Representative Ruth B. Balser, a Newton Democrat.
Story from Friday's Globe
Landmark becomes bridge to nowhere
The landmark retains its trademark echo. But the 129-year-old arched stone bridge is no longer a scenic link between Newton and Needham over the Charles River. Echo Bridge is scheduled to be closed today, indefinitely, due to safety reasons.
Locals drive home transportation concerns
Allston-Brighton TAB: Locals drive home transportation concerns: "Nearly 40 people, from residents to members of special interest groups, gathered at the Honan-Allston Library Saturday to vent their frustrations about transportation problems in Allston and Brighton."
Breaking-and-entering cases up
Allston-Brighton TAB: Letter from Captain Evans: Breaking-and-entering cases up: "In recent months, we have seen an increase in B&E incidents in the Allston area. In light of this fact, we would like residents to be more vigilant to help stem the tide of these crimes."
Our Lady of the Presentation School talks hit a snag
Parochial school talks hit a snag - The Boston Globe: "After nearly two years of negotiations, of ups and downs, setbacks and breakthroughs, the group that wanted to buy Our Lady of the Presentation School from the Catholic Archdiocese of Boston thought that at long last they were on the brink of a deal. But optimism has suddenly faded for speedy acceptance of a $2 million offer the group submitted late last month."
Harvard - higher education-community partnerships
Beyond blame at Harvard - The Boston Globe: "Being a regional player. A recent Boston Foundation report calls for ''a new era of higher education-community partnerships' that would draw on the united resources of Harvard and its college and university neighbors, merging them with civic and community efforts in Greater Boston. Joint effort could transform the local landscape by breathing more energy into healthcare, affordable housing, public safety, K-12 public education, and workforce development."
Here is a link to the Boston Foundation report - A New Era of Higher
Education - Community Partnerships
Here is a link to the Boston Foundation report - A New Era of Higher
Education - Community Partnerships
Harvard's Allston campus
Harvard's Allston campus - Boston Globe Editorial
IT'S GOOD NEWS for the economic prospects of Boston that Harvard, despite its troubles, is continuing to expand into Allston. Just before Lawrence Summers announced his decision to resign as president, the university unveiled plans to relocate its Stem Cell Institute. But a better test of Harvard's ability to create a vibrant space comes with its attempt to move the Charlesview apartments off a crucial site...
IT'S GOOD NEWS for the economic prospects of Boston that Harvard, despite its troubles, is continuing to expand into Allston. Just before Lawrence Summers announced his decision to resign as president, the university unveiled plans to relocate its Stem Cell Institute. But a better test of Harvard's ability to create a vibrant space comes with its attempt to move the Charlesview apartments off a crucial site...
Libraries, residents not on same page?
Libraries, residents not on same page, study finds - The Boston Globe
"The Boston Public Library system is underperforming most big city library systems, even though it has a bigger budget, more staff, and more books per capita than most, according to a study performed for the city."
What do you think about the libraries in Allston and Brighton?
"The Boston Public Library system is underperforming most big city library systems, even though it has a bigger budget, more staff, and more books per capita than most, according to a study performed for the city."
What do you think about the libraries in Allston and Brighton?
Harvard Art To Migrate During Museum Renovations
The Harvard Crimson :: News :: Trading Spaces: Art To Migrate During Museum Renovations: "The Harvard University Art Museums recently announced a multi-year plan to overhaul its museums and to stake a claim in the University's new campus across the Charles River in Allston. "
NY Times Magazine - The Real Estate Issue
The March 5 edition of The New York Times Magazine has many thought-provoking stories. Here are three that could be particularly relevant to our neighborhood:
Profile of Harvard Economics Prof. Edward Glaeser
Why do houses cost so much when there's plenty of land to build on? Is public housing a good thing? Why do people still move to Detroit? Ed Glaeser has some answers.
Related links: the Rappaport Institute, The Taubman Center
Psst... Have You Heard About Bushwick?
A changing neighborhood in Brooklyn maybe with some similarities to Allston as Harvard expands
How do you build affordable housing without federal money?
Profile of Harvard Economics Prof. Edward Glaeser
Why do houses cost so much when there's plenty of land to build on? Is public housing a good thing? Why do people still move to Detroit? Ed Glaeser has some answers.
Related links: the Rappaport Institute, The Taubman Center
Psst... Have You Heard About Bushwick?
A changing neighborhood in Brooklyn maybe with some similarities to Allston as Harvard expands
How do you build affordable housing without federal money?
Neighbor to Neigbor Massachusetts
Neighbor to Neigbor Massachusetts
This would be an interesting organization to work with in Allston and Brighton...
Neighbor to Neighbor Massachusetts builds power in low-income and working class communities around economic justice issues. The Working Family Agenda - good jobs, education and training, affordable child care, health care and housing, a welfare safety net, and progressive taxation - is the cornerstone of our program.
Our grassroots community organizing model includes:
Voter registration and education,
Candidate endorsements,
Public policy advocacy,
Grassroots coalition building, and
Developing sustainable local leadership.
This would be an interesting organization to work with in Allston and Brighton...
Neighbor to Neighbor Massachusetts builds power in low-income and working class communities around economic justice issues. The Working Family Agenda - good jobs, education and training, affordable child care, health care and housing, a welfare safety net, and progressive taxation - is the cornerstone of our program.
Our grassroots community organizing model includes:
Voter registration and education,
Candidate endorsements,
Public policy advocacy,
Grassroots coalition building, and
Developing sustainable local leadership.
In Allston, Tenants Await Land Swap
The Harvard Crimson :: In Allston, Tenants Await Land Swap
A sense of inevitability dominated the meeting convened last night in Allston to discuss the pros and cons of a new proposal by Harvard to swap a five-acre property in the Brighton Mills Shopping Center for the land currently occupied by the Charlesview Apartments...
A sense of inevitability dominated the meeting convened last night in Allston to discuss the pros and cons of a new proposal by Harvard to swap a five-acre property in the Brighton Mills Shopping Center for the land currently occupied by the Charlesview Apartments...
Harvard Allston Task Force on BRA website
Harvard Allston Campus Planning and Institutional Master Plan
Schedule of meetings and meeting mintues are now online on the BRA's website.
Schedule of meetings and meeting mintues are now online on the BRA's website.
Senior day care closing delayed
TownOnline.com - Local News: Senior day care closing delayed
Following community opposition, the senior day-care center at St. Gabriel's may be open a little longer, but it will still eventually close.
Following community opposition, the senior day-care center at St. Gabriel's may be open a little longer, but it will still eventually close.
Opening grates
Opening grates: A city effort gets mixed results - The Boston Globe
As an example of a success story, the city points to Allston, where community leaders have been urging business owners to take them down for almost 10 years, as a success story. The grates create a feeling that ''this is a place where crime happens,' said Jennifer Rose, who is the executive director of Allston Village Main Streets. In the district of about 300 businesses, Rose said, many storeowners have taken down their grates, and others have decided not to put them up, to fit in with the changing district.
'They've seen that the others have done so, and it has been better for business,' she said.
As an example of a success story, the city points to Allston, where community leaders have been urging business owners to take them down for almost 10 years, as a success story. The grates create a feeling that ''this is a place where crime happens,' said Jennifer Rose, who is the executive director of Allston Village Main Streets. In the district of about 300 businesses, Rose said, many storeowners have taken down their grates, and others have decided not to put them up, to fit in with the changing district.
'They've seen that the others have done so, and it has been better for business,' she said.
Harvard Offers Swap for Key Allston Plot
The Harvard Crimson :: News :: Harvard Offers Swap for Key Allston Plot
Harvard representatives said yesterday they would swap five acres of land at the University-owned Brighton Mills Shopping Center and provide "resources" to construct a new low-income apartment complex there in exchange for the site of the Charlesview Apartments'now located at the center of the University's holdings across the River.
Harvard representatives said yesterday they would swap five acres of land at the University-owned Brighton Mills Shopping Center and provide "resources" to construct a new low-income apartment complex there in exchange for the site of the Charlesview Apartments'now located at the center of the University's holdings across the River.
'Broken windows' crime theory
The cracks in 'broken windows' - The Boston Globe
Some research and history about crime reduction and Boston's initiative to reduce smaller crimes.
Some research and history about crime reduction and Boston's initiative to reduce smaller crimes.
A Family or a Crowd?
A Family or a Crowd? - New York Times
Manassas, Virginia attempts to resolve overcrowding issues not unlike those in Allston and Brighton.
"One 23-year-old Mexican told The Palm Beach Post a couple of years ago that he, too, thought 10 unrelated workers living in a two-bedroom apartment was too much. "Eight people — three in each bedroom and two in the living room — that should be the maximum," he said. This is the problem in Manassas. When crowding becomes commonplace, neighborhoods change. Parking disappears, and mountains of trash appear on the sidewalk on collection day."
Manassas, Virginia attempts to resolve overcrowding issues not unlike those in Allston and Brighton.
"One 23-year-old Mexican told The Palm Beach Post a couple of years ago that he, too, thought 10 unrelated workers living in a two-bedroom apartment was too much. "Eight people — three in each bedroom and two in the living room — that should be the maximum," he said. This is the problem in Manassas. When crowding becomes commonplace, neighborhoods change. Parking disappears, and mountains of trash appear on the sidewalk on collection day."
Tunnels
= A86 =
Cofiroute is a company building a major tunnel in France to move traffic off city streets and reduce traffic congestion. The project's motto is: "Drive safely underground, life better above ground".
And Europe also has The Channel Tunnel (Chunnel) connecting England and France.
As Harvard contemplates undergraduate housing along the Charles River near the football stadium and putting parts of Soldier's Field Road underground, it is interesting to also think about these other tunnel projects. See the Cooper Robertson & Partners Interim Report for more info about options for a basic campus and urban framework in Allston.
Cofiroute is a company building a major tunnel in France to move traffic off city streets and reduce traffic congestion. The project's motto is: "Drive safely underground, life better above ground".
And Europe also has The Channel Tunnel (Chunnel) connecting England and France.
As Harvard contemplates undergraduate housing along the Charles River near the football stadium and putting parts of Soldier's Field Road underground, it is interesting to also think about these other tunnel projects. See the Cooper Robertson & Partners Interim Report for more info about options for a basic campus and urban framework in Allston.
Snowed-under residents would rather be fenced in
Snowed-under residents would rather be fenced in - The Boston Globe
For Honan, the failure is a sign that the neighborhood should get a sturdier (and far more expensive) reinforced sound barrier fence to keep both noise and snow out.
"There are other communities that are supposed to be ahead of us on the list, but we need to pass them now," said Honan, who added that the Turnpike Authority will be meeting with the neighborhood in mid-March. "We deserve much better than this."
For Honan, the failure is a sign that the neighborhood should get a sturdier (and far more expensive) reinforced sound barrier fence to keep both noise and snow out.
"There are other communities that are supposed to be ahead of us on the list, but we need to pass them now," said Honan, who added that the Turnpike Authority will be meeting with the neighborhood in mid-March. "We deserve much better than this."
Cheaper alternative to NSTAR Electric
Cheaper and more efficient, 'munis' are viable alternative
A typical Cambridge household using 500 kilowatt hours per month in 2005 paid NStar $70.71.
For the same electricity, muni bills were: Peabody $50.02, Braintree $51.04, Concord $54.52, Reading $54.61, Hudson $57.15
Read more at www.massmunichoice.org to read about a bill at the State House that could help us pay lower electric bills and have better customer service.
A typical Cambridge household using 500 kilowatt hours per month in 2005 paid NStar $70.71.
For the same electricity, muni bills were: Peabody $50.02, Braintree $51.04, Concord $54.52, Reading $54.61, Hudson $57.15
Read more at www.massmunichoice.org to read about a bill at the State House that could help us pay lower electric bills and have better customer service.
Job gives youngsters more than a paycheck - The Boston Globe
Job gives youngsters more than a paycheck - The Boston Globe
Shivering a little as snow fell on Uphams Corner in Dorchester yesterday, a lanky 15-year-old in a black-hooded parka began sweeping dirt and candy wrappers and scraps of crumpled plastic off Dudley Street. Anderson, who lives in South Boston, has spent the last five Saturdays traveling around the city in a van filled with brooms, shovels, and about 10 other youths, filling brown plastic bags with litter as part of a new Boston city winter jobs program.
Sounds like a great program. I hope Harvard St will be on their itinerary.
Shivering a little as snow fell on Uphams Corner in Dorchester yesterday, a lanky 15-year-old in a black-hooded parka began sweeping dirt and candy wrappers and scraps of crumpled plastic off Dudley Street. Anderson, who lives in South Boston, has spent the last five Saturdays traveling around the city in a van filled with brooms, shovels, and about 10 other youths, filling brown plastic bags with litter as part of a new Boston city winter jobs program.
Sounds like a great program. I hope Harvard St will be on their itinerary.
Let Traffic Flow and So Will Commerce, Groups Tell NY City
Let Traffic Flow and So Will Commerce, Groups Tell City - New York Times
New York works on an issues that we can relate to in Allston and Brighton.
In an unusual pairing of business and environmental interests, five neighborhood business groups are asking the Bloomberg administration to do more to relieve congestion on city streets, citing a new study of private car traffic in Manhattan...it proposes a series of steps long advocated by transportation planners: dedicating more space on the streets for buses and bicycles and freeing more sidewalk space for pedestrians.
New York works on an issues that we can relate to in Allston and Brighton.
In an unusual pairing of business and environmental interests, five neighborhood business groups are asking the Bloomberg administration to do more to relieve congestion on city streets, citing a new study of private car traffic in Manhattan...it proposes a series of steps long advocated by transportation planners: dedicating more space on the streets for buses and bicycles and freeing more sidewalk space for pedestrians.
After Summers
After Summers - The Boston Globe: "the seeds that Summers planted in Allston have the potential to move the Massachusetts economy ahead for generations."
Yale's $2 billion building plan
$2 billion building plan passes halfway mark
A story from the New Haven Register that may be of interest relative to what is happening in Allston and Brighton with BU, BC, and Harvard
A story from the New Haven Register that may be of interest relative to what is happening in Allston and Brighton with BU, BC, and Harvard
Harvard says Summers resigns as president
Harvard says Summers resigns as president
Harvard University President Lawrence Summers has resigned after a turbulent five years of leading the prestigious school.
What will this do to Harvard's Allston planning?
Harvard University President Lawrence Summers has resigned after a turbulent five years of leading the prestigious school.
What will this do to Harvard's Allston planning?
Scooters, traffic, parking, and oil consumption
Today's New York Times has an interesting full page adverstiement from the Piaggio Group, the company the manufactures Vespa scooters. The ad listed some environmental benefits of scooters (reduced fuel consumption, reduced emissions of carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide). Boston could consider how it might make Boston more friendly to people riding scooters, bicycles, and people who use car sharing programs like Zipcar. In addition to being cheaper than owning a car, all of these options would reduce parking shortages in our neighborhoods and scooters and bicycles would reduce traffic congestion too. If the demand for on-street parking was reduced fewer people might want to pave and park in their front yards. Can Boston install more bike racks, places to lock scooters, encourage Zipcars at more locations, and build more bike lanes or otherwise design roads better for things other than cars?
What worth councilors?
What worth councilors? - The Boston Globe
A compensation review committee appointed by the mayor is probably going to recommend later this spring that salaries for the mayor and the City Council -- now $150,000 and $75,000, respectively -- be hiked by an amount to be determined.
Some related commentary on the web in the Boston Herald Blog, a recent Globe editorial, and a story from last week's Globe which claims:
A compensation review committee appointed by the mayor is probably going to recommend later this spring that salaries for the mayor and the City Council -- now $150,000 and $75,000, respectively -- be hiked by an amount to be determined.
Some related commentary on the web in the Boston Herald Blog, a recent Globe editorial, and a story from last week's Globe which claims:
Boston councilors are also relatively well paid, according to the National League of Cities. A 2001 survey found the average salary for councilors in cities with populations of 200,000 and up was $39,061.
Skyscraper plan draws mixed reaction
Skyscraper plan draws mixed reaction - The Boston Globe
Friday was a big day for bold vision on the other side of the city, too, as Harvard University joined Menino in unveiling plans for the first building in its long-anticipated new campus in Allston: a 500,000-square-foot science complex with a state-of-the-art stem cell laboratory as its centerpiece.
Community leaders in Allston seemed a good deal more impressed with Harvard's move yesterday than were some passers-by on Federal Street with the city's.
''It is an exciting time for me,' said Paul Berkeley, president of the Allston Civic Association. ''We've been sitting at these meetings for many years now. We've done a lot of talking and a lot of listening, and it's exciting to be at the point where all of these ideas are going to start taking shape.'
Friday was a big day for bold vision on the other side of the city, too, as Harvard University joined Menino in unveiling plans for the first building in its long-anticipated new campus in Allston: a 500,000-square-foot science complex with a state-of-the-art stem cell laboratory as its centerpiece.
Community leaders in Allston seemed a good deal more impressed with Harvard's move yesterday than were some passers-by on Federal Street with the city's.
''It is an exciting time for me,' said Paul Berkeley, president of the Allston Civic Association. ''We've been sitting at these meetings for many years now. We've done a lot of talking and a lot of listening, and it's exciting to be at the point where all of these ideas are going to start taking shape.'
Divided, they are, into groups, united they stand, being green
Divided, they are, into groups, united they stand, being green - The Boston Globe
If it's green, or could be, it's on the agenda for the second annual Allston Brighton Green Gathering Thursday night at the EF International Language School. Allston Brighton Green Space Advocates is a year-old confederation of local groups and individuals who want to maintain green spaces of all shapes and sizes.
If it's green, or could be, it's on the agenda for the second annual Allston Brighton Green Gathering Thursday night at the EF International Language School. Allston Brighton Green Space Advocates is a year-old confederation of local groups and individuals who want to maintain green spaces of all shapes and sizes.
NY City Proposes Tougher Limits on Lobbyists
City Proposes Tougher Limits on Lobbyists - New York Times
Saying they wanted to avoid the sort of influence-peddling scandal that is rocking Washington, New York City leaders yesterday proposed a set of strict new limits on lobbyists that would bar them from certain areas inside City Hall at certain times and severely limit their ability to shower officials with gifts and campaign donations.
Is Boston moving in the same direction as New York?
Saying they wanted to avoid the sort of influence-peddling scandal that is rocking Washington, New York City leaders yesterday proposed a set of strict new limits on lobbyists that would bar them from certain areas inside City Hall at certain times and severely limit their ability to shower officials with gifts and campaign donations.
Is Boston moving in the same direction as New York?
BC plans for Brighton campus
BC plans for Brighton campus
As concerns of development and Allston's future mount in the community, Boston College unveiled its plans for the college campus in two neighborhood meetings last week.
A neighborhood charette will be hosted by BC on Feb. 25, 9 a.m. - 12 noon to gather public input and continue the master planning process.
As concerns of development and Allston's future mount in the community, Boston College unveiled its plans for the college campus in two neighborhood meetings last week.
A neighborhood charette will be hosted by BC on Feb. 25, 9 a.m. - 12 noon to gather public input and continue the master planning process.
Snowstorm defeats snow fence
Snowstorm defeats snow fence
Many promises and $200,000 later, a new snow fence built by the Turnpike Authority shielding Lincoln Street from the Massachusetts Turnpike came down in the last snowstorm. Area residents who had asked for a stronger fence in the first place are upset.
Many promises and $200,000 later, a new snow fence built by the Turnpike Authority shielding Lincoln Street from the Massachusetts Turnpike came down in the last snowstorm. Area residents who had asked for a stronger fence in the first place are upset.
Graffiti tagger pleads guilty
Tagger pleads guilty
After a graffiti spree in Allston-Brighton last March, Tyson Andree Wells, 26, of Brookline pleaded guilty last week to vandalism charges.
After a graffiti spree in Allston-Brighton last March, Tyson Andree Wells, 26, of Brookline pleaded guilty last week to vandalism charges.
Gardner School gets pilot status
Gardner School gets pilot status
A two-year impasse was broken Wednesday as the Boston Public Schools and the teachers union reached an agreement on a three-year proposal regarding pilot schools. In Brighton, this is cause for celebration, as the Thomas Gardner Elementary School on Athol Street has long awaited pilot status.
A two-year impasse was broken Wednesday as the Boston Public Schools and the teachers union reached an agreement on a three-year proposal regarding pilot schools. In Brighton, this is cause for celebration, as the Thomas Gardner Elementary School on Athol Street has long awaited pilot status.
Harvard to build stem-cell center in Allston
Harvard to build stem-cell center in Boston's Allston section - Boston.com
Harvard University plans to build a 500,000 square foot complex for stem cell research and other science initiatives in Boston's Allston section. Harvard has chosen a German architectural firm, Behnisch Architects, and a site for the complex, which will house the Harvard Stem Cell Institute. Several other cross-departmental science initiatives also will be housed at the site on Western Avenue, east of the intersection at North Harvard and next to the studios of public radio and television broadcaster WGBH. Harvard hopes to break ground on the new building in 2007. In other related developments, Harvard will soon propose an alternative site to Charlesview for their possible relocation. The new potential site tries to address criteria set forth by Charlesview.
Behnisch Architects were the architects for the new Genzyme building in Kendall Square.
Harvard University plans to build a 500,000 square foot complex for stem cell research and other science initiatives in Boston's Allston section. Harvard has chosen a German architectural firm, Behnisch Architects, and a site for the complex, which will house the Harvard Stem Cell Institute. Several other cross-departmental science initiatives also will be housed at the site on Western Avenue, east of the intersection at North Harvard and next to the studios of public radio and television broadcaster WGBH. Harvard hopes to break ground on the new building in 2007. In other related developments, Harvard will soon propose an alternative site to Charlesview for their possible relocation. The new potential site tries to address criteria set forth by Charlesview.
Behnisch Architects were the architects for the new Genzyme building in Kendall Square.
City wants violators to sweat small stuff
City wants violators to sweat small stuff - The Boston Globe
Bostonians may be used to getting slapped with fines for illegal parking. But bad behavior will soon cost city residents, too. Armed with new citation books, police are to begin issuing tickets for scores of transgressions of city ordinances: from loud, late-night parties and improperly stored trash to posting handbills in certain public places and using laser pointers in public. The tickets, carrying fines of $10 to $300, are the latest in a series of crime-fighting moves mounted by the city, as officials seek solutions to a wave of violent crime.
Bostonians may be used to getting slapped with fines for illegal parking. But bad behavior will soon cost city residents, too. Armed with new citation books, police are to begin issuing tickets for scores of transgressions of city ordinances: from loud, late-night parties and improperly stored trash to posting handbills in certain public places and using laser pointers in public. The tickets, carrying fines of $10 to $300, are the latest in a series of crime-fighting moves mounted by the city, as officials seek solutions to a wave of violent crime.
Allston-Brighton break-ins on the rise
Allston-Brighton break-ins on the rise - The Daily Free Press: "Residential break-ins in Allston-Brighton are on the rise along with the crime rate because of the growing number of students seeking housing in these areas"
In Allston, Paper packs in a new crowd
In Allston, Paper packs in a new crowd - The Boston Globe
Story about changes in the Allston music scene at Harpers Ferry and O'Brien's.
Story about changes in the Allston music scene at Harpers Ferry and O'Brien's.
How big is 1,000,000 square feet?
Some estimates of Harvard's plan for expansion in Allston have mentioned creating one million square feet of new space. How much is that? This shows the footprint of a million square foot building based on various building heights. Some of this space could be built underground, and Harvard is going to build several buildings, not one, but hopefully this provides some context.(click to enlarge image)
A flimsy fence makes for irate turnpike neighbors
BostonHerald.com - News & Opinion: A flimsy fence makes for irate turnpike neighbors
Allston residents are blaming the penny-pinching Turnpike Authority for building a flimsy fence blown down during last weekend’s blizzard instead of the stronger wall they wanted between their neighborhood and the roadway in the first place.
Allston residents are blaming the penny-pinching Turnpike Authority for building a flimsy fence blown down during last weekend’s blizzard instead of the stronger wall they wanted between their neighborhood and the roadway in the first place.
Violent Crime Rising Sharply in Some Cities
Violent Crime Rising Sharply in Some Cities - New York Times
Nationally, the homicide rate peaked in 1991, declined steadily after 1993 and has remained essentially flat since 1999. But in the first six months of 2005, according to preliminary statistics from the F.B.I., the number of homicides nationwide rose 2.1 percent, with the greatest increase, 4.9 percent, in the Midwest. Yet many cities have seen far steeper increases. In Boston and San Francisco the number of homicides last year was at its highest in a decade.
But the police also blame lax sentences and judges who they say let suspects out on bail too easily..."We have people who've done two, three, four, five shootings who are back on the streets," said Kathleen M. O'Toole, Boston's police commissioner. "Unless we have bail reform, unless these impact players with multiple gun arrests are kept off the streets, we won't reverse this problem."
Nationally, the homicide rate peaked in 1991, declined steadily after 1993 and has remained essentially flat since 1999. But in the first six months of 2005, according to preliminary statistics from the F.B.I., the number of homicides nationwide rose 2.1 percent, with the greatest increase, 4.9 percent, in the Midwest. Yet many cities have seen far steeper increases. In Boston and San Francisco the number of homicides last year was at its highest in a decade.
But the police also blame lax sentences and judges who they say let suspects out on bail too easily..."We have people who've done two, three, four, five shootings who are back on the streets," said Kathleen M. O'Toole, Boston's police commissioner. "Unless we have bail reform, unless these impact players with multiple gun arrests are kept off the streets, we won't reverse this problem."
St. E's to Close Adult Day Care
TownOnline.com - Local News: Center doors slammed: "Disappointed residents at a community meeting last week protested St. Elizabeth's taking away a senior day-care center that is scheduled to close April after 20 years of serving the neighborhood."
Harvard-Allston Task Force Meetings
Harvard-Allston Task Force meetings will be held every SECOND MONDAY and FOURTH WEDNESDAY of each month through November, 2006. The exceptions are Wednesday, March 1, and October 11 and 23, which are the second Wednesday and fourth Monday of the month. Planned meetings are as follows:
Monday, February 13
Wednesday, March 1
March 13 and 29
April 10 and 26
May 8 and 24
June 12 and 28
July 10 and 26
August 14 and 30
September 11 and 27
October 11 and 23
November 13 and 29
All meetings are scheduled to be held at 7:00 p.m. at the Honan-Allston Library, 300 North Harvard Street.
Meeting dates, time, and location are subject to change.
Monday, February 13
Wednesday, March 1
March 13 and 29
April 10 and 26
May 8 and 24
June 12 and 28
July 10 and 26
August 14 and 30
September 11 and 27
October 11 and 23
November 13 and 29
All meetings are scheduled to be held at 7:00 p.m. at the Honan-Allston Library, 300 North Harvard Street.
Meeting dates, time, and location are subject to change.
Menino mounts new push for WiFi
Menino mounts new push for WiFi - The Boston Globe: "A campaign to build a wireless data network in Boston picked up momentum yesterday as Mayor Thomas M. Menino said he would mount an effort to spread wireless Internet access across the city."
Harvard Business School raises $598m
Harvard Business School raises a record $598.7m - The Boston Globe
Harvard Business School has raised nearly $600 million in a multi-year capital campaign that will fund student financial aid, faculty recruitment, technology initiatives, new global research centers, and building projects on the school's campus along the Charles River.
And for campus renewal, it raised $85.7 million, compared with a goal of $80 million.
The story doesn't mention that HBS is in Allston, but this will be another interesting piece of Harvard's activity here.
Harvard Business School has raised nearly $600 million in a multi-year capital campaign that will fund student financial aid, faculty recruitment, technology initiatives, new global research centers, and building projects on the school's campus along the Charles River.
And for campus renewal, it raised $85.7 million, compared with a goal of $80 million.
The story doesn't mention that HBS is in Allston, but this will be another interesting piece of Harvard's activity here.
Allston & Brighton Need More Voters!
Did you know that Allston and Brighton come in LAST in voter participation in Boston?
Only 46% of our residents are registered to vote. This is the lowest % in Boston. The citywide average is 60% and some communities have more than 70% registration.
Only 24% of our registered voters actually voted in last November's election. This is also the lowest % in Boston. The citwide average was 36% and some communities were as high as 48%.
So only 11% (7,139 out of 65,561) of the residents of Allston and Brighton voted last fall. In places like South Boston and West Roxbury more than 30% of residents voted. How much better would our community be if our turnout matched the city average of 21%?
How to register to vote in Boston
Map of Boston showing wards and city council districts
Mass Vote election information
Only 46% of our residents are registered to vote. This is the lowest % in Boston. The citywide average is 60% and some communities have more than 70% registration.
Only 24% of our registered voters actually voted in last November's election. This is also the lowest % in Boston. The citwide average was 36% and some communities were as high as 48%.
So only 11% (7,139 out of 65,561) of the residents of Allston and Brighton voted last fall. In places like South Boston and West Roxbury more than 30% of residents voted. How much better would our community be if our turnout matched the city average of 21%?
How to register to vote in Boston
Map of Boston showing wards and city council districts
Mass Vote election information
Allston activist rewires meaning of 'town meeting'
Allston activist rewires meaning of 'town meeting'
BU's Daily Free Press does a nice story about Allston Brighton 2006.
BU's Daily Free Press does a nice story about Allston Brighton 2006.
Zoning Board of Appeal hearings - Feb 7
The nofitication of these hearings today just came in the mail yesterday, so there isn't much we can do to support or oppose any of these, but in any case, here are today's Board of Appeal hearings for Allston and Brighton:
14 Linden Street
Conditional Use variance to change occupancy to allow a private club serving alcohol
29 Sutherland Road
Variance to change occupancy from 3 family to 4 family
79 Brighton Ave
Change legal occupancy from 2 family to 3 family. Legalize existing first floor unit and extend into basement.
14 Linden Street
Conditional Use variance to change occupancy to allow a private club serving alcohol
29 Sutherland Road
Variance to change occupancy from 3 family to 4 family
79 Brighton Ave
Change legal occupancy from 2 family to 3 family. Legalize existing first floor unit and extend into basement.
2006 Summer Job Registration
Boston Youth Fund: Information for 15-18 year olds to register for summer jobs through the city
Nearly snowless city still needs a sweep
Nearly snowless city still needs a sweep - The Boston Globe: "Appalled by the piles of potato chip bags, pizza boxes, Dunkin' Donuts cups, and general grit and grime he has been seeing day after day, Councilor Jerry P. McDermott of Brighton says the city needs a serious cleanup."
Boston City Council video on-line
City Council Video Library
Watch city government in action!
In the Feb 1 hearing you can watch debate about guest permits for resident parking areas and many other Council hearings that will be coming up.
Watch city government in action!
In the Feb 1 hearing you can watch debate about guest permits for resident parking areas and many other Council hearings that will be coming up.
Overdevelopment - Coming soon to your neighborhood?
Allston-Brighton TAB: Neighbors ask, is it legal?
Owners of the yellow one-family house at 28 Adamson St., Allston, are trying to sell the parcel, with a permit pulled Jan. 10 for five, three-bedroom units, a move that goes against the Allston zoning code.
"This person is deliberately taking advantage of what they hope will be a zoning loophole to make money," said local lawyer and neighbor Cathi Campbell at a community meeting on Saturday.
The lot is zoned three-family and can house only three units, but the developers plan to get around this requirement by building a three-story row house with five condos inside.
Owners of the yellow one-family house at 28 Adamson St., Allston, are trying to sell the parcel, with a permit pulled Jan. 10 for five, three-bedroom units, a move that goes against the Allston zoning code.
"This person is deliberately taking advantage of what they hope will be a zoning loophole to make money," said local lawyer and neighbor Cathi Campbell at a community meeting on Saturday.
The lot is zoned three-family and can house only three units, but the developers plan to get around this requirement by building a three-story row house with five condos inside.
Deval Patrick wins big among delegates
Patrick wins big among delegates - The Boston Globe
Story from the Globe about yesterday's Democratic caucuses and here is a more local point of view.
"Ward 21 (Brighton/Allston) we had 14/18 delegates for Patrick and 2 alternates for Patrick. This was the direct result of Patrick's ward 21 organizers getting a strong turnout and being very well organized. "
Story from the Globe about yesterday's Democratic caucuses and here is a more local point of view.
"Ward 21 (Brighton/Allston) we had 14/18 delegates for Patrick and 2 alternates for Patrick. This was the direct result of Patrick's ward 21 organizers getting a strong turnout and being very well organized. "
City of Boston Email Notifications
City of Boston Subscription Email Services
This site has several different email lists you can join to learn about Snow Emergencies/Parking Bans, School Closings, neighborhood specific meetings, youth events, and more.
This site has several different email lists you can join to learn about Snow Emergencies/Parking Bans, School Closings, neighborhood specific meetings, youth events, and more.
St. E's closing Adult Day Health Center
Allston-Brighton TAB: Elders out of luck
Open Monday through Friday and located in the lower level of St. Gabriel's Church on Washington Street in Brighton, the Adult Day Health Center was begun in 1981 to meet local needs of senior daycare. It offers a wide range of specialized services to people who have mild to moderate physical impairments and who need assistance in maintaining or improving their level of independence.
The center is scheduled to close in April and currently serves about 28 seniors.
Open Monday through Friday and located in the lower level of St. Gabriel's Church on Washington Street in Brighton, the Adult Day Health Center was begun in 1981 to meet local needs of senior daycare. It offers a wide range of specialized services to people who have mild to moderate physical impairments and who need assistance in maintaining or improving their level of independence.
The center is scheduled to close in April and currently serves about 28 seniors.
Suffolk Registry of Deeds website
Suffolk Registry of Deeds
This is an interesting website for property transactions and research. Select "Suffolk" county then Property Search. The database contains deeds, mortgages, liens, and other records of property transactions.
This is an interesting website for property transactions and research. Select "Suffolk" county then Property Search. The database contains deeds, mortgages, liens, and other records of property transactions.
Help Me Hank! Crosswalk crisis
WHDH-TV - Help Me Hank! Crosswalk crisis
Channel 7 News Team helps get a crosswalk light repaired in Allston. If you live in Boston and spot a broken traffic signal, you can call the mayor's 24 hour service line to report it: 617-635-4500.
You can reach Hank Phillippi Ryan, 7 NEWS investigative reporter through this web site.
Channel 7 News Team helps get a crosswalk light repaired in Allston. If you live in Boston and spot a broken traffic signal, you can call the mayor's 24 hour service line to report it: 617-635-4500.
You can reach Hank Phillippi Ryan, 7 NEWS investigative reporter through this web site.
A Retailing Czar, Looking Out for Mom and Pop - New York Times
A Retailing Czar, Looking Out for Mom and Pop - New York Times
New York hires a executive director of retail development to assist neighborhood organizations in their efforts to attract and retain a diversity of businesses that serve local residents.
New York hires a executive director of retail development to assist neighborhood organizations in their efforts to attract and retain a diversity of businesses that serve local residents.
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