Rebekah Gewirtz

I will periodically post helpful and informative news and links pertaining to Ward 6 Somerville. Please check back often.

Summer in Somerville 2010

Summer in Somerville has begun in full swing and there is a lot to do in and around the city. Most immediately, the city budget deliberations are coming up this week and next. There's a chance for you to weigh in on the budget, too. The schedule is below.

For those of you who are new to my newsletter, welcome. In this e-newsletter you will find information about events and happenings all around the Ward 6 neighborhood (Davis Sq, Ball Sq, Porter Sq, and parts of Tufts) and some events in other parts of the city that might interest you, too.

If you have information you'd like me to share with others through my e-newsletter, send me an email to Rebekah.Gewirtz@gmail.com. Best wishes for a happy summer, Rebekah

Ward 6 Fun Fact

There will be a benefit party for the annual HONK! Festival coming up on Friday June 25, 2010, 7-10pm at the Dilboy Post on the corner of Cutter & Summer St. I'll be there to help kick it off.

The HONK! Festival happens every year in Davis Square on Columbus Day Weekend. It's a weekend of great music and festivities. To learn more and to help out or contribute to the festival go to: www.honkfest.org

Constituent Corner

In this section of my e-newsletter, I'm looking to hear from you on important issues facing the city. Click on the link at the end of each question and let me know what you think. Getting your feedback on these issues is very important to me, and I hope this feature of my newsletter will encourage you to share your thoughts, ideas, and concerns. As always, feel free to contact me via email at rebekah.gewirtz@gmail.com or 617-718-0792.

1. City Budget - Outsourcing of School Custodians

   The city budget process begins tonight at city hall with a presentation by the mayor to the Board of Aldermen with his FY2011 recommendations. The budget this year will be very tough since once again we are facing a significant shortfall - about $8m. The mayor has proposed outsourcing all of the school custodians, which would cost all 40+ current custodians their jobs. Throughout this year and last there has been much made of "shared sacrifice" through tough budgets. To me, this move represents concentrated sacrifice and I'm very concerned about a policy change that mirrors private company practices that I have opposed. I'm reminded of the 100 custodial workers at the Hyatt who all lost their jobs to outsourcing. If outsourcing happens, these Somerville school custodian jobs are gone for good. Many of the custodians have lived in Somerville their whole lives and have given more than 20 years of service to the city. I'm curious to hear your thoughts about this and about outsourcing in general. Send me an email by clicking here rebekah.gewirtz@gmail.com. (To see last year's budget, click here http://www.somervillema.gov/cos_content/documents/CityofSomervilleFY10BudgetV6.pdf.

2. Davis Square Visioning

   In April, May and June working with the mayor's office, we convened a Davis Square visioning process so residents could come together to share their ideas about the future of Davis Square. After three meetings, we determined there were several items of consensus including a shared desire for vibrant streetscapes, locally owned and operated businesses, and maximizing the open and green spaces in the area. This meeting culminated in a discussion of $65,000 the mayor and I secured for streetscape improvements to Davis Square. There will be an on-going process to get community feedback about the most important areas of the square that need refurbishing. Please be on the look out for information about that process. For a full picture of the visioning process check out this link http://www.somervillema.gov/Section.cfm?org=OSPCD&page=154.

   What are your thoughts on the process and do you have ideas you want to share about the future of Davis Square? Let me know by clicking here mailto:rebekah.gewirtz@gmail.com.

3. Anti-immigrant bill in MA State Senate and Arizona

   In April, Arizona passed the strictest immigration bill in the nation, authorizing local police to stop and question anyone suspected of being an illegal immigrant. This bill was met with BOTH outrage and support all across the country. Then two weeks ago, our own Massachusetts state senate passed a similar measure in their budget creating a 24 hour hotline so people can turn in their neighbors if they are suspected illegal immigrants and several other provisions that stand to harm the children of illegal immigrants. I'm very concerned about the direction of immigration policy in Massachusetts especially in light of the Arizona law. I'm concerned that people have forgotten what history shows us - that we shouldn't scapegoat any one group of people during times of hardship or frustration. With Centro Presente and others I am working on a resolution we can present at the Board of Aldermen expressing support for immigrants in our community. What are your thoughts on the bill passed in the state senate? (Just so you know - both Somerville senators Pat Jehlen and Sal DiDomenico voted against the amendment.) Send me an email by clicking here mailto:rebekah.gewirtz@gmail.com.

Community Events

Somerville Clean up and SomerStreets, June 19, 2010 (rain date of June 20th) 10am-12pm
Spring Clean Up happens in every neighborhood in Somerville on this day. Since it was rained out in May it has been rescheduled to June 19th. Residents are invited to come out and lend a helping hand to clean up the neighborhood. In Ward 6, volunteers meet in Statue Park in Davis Square at 10am to get clean-up tools and a free T-shirt! Please contact Ward 6 School committee member Paul Bockelman at pbockelman@aol.com or me at Rebekah.Gewirtz@gmail.com. for more information. SomerStreets will also be happening on June 19th. Broadway from Magoun Square to East Somerville will be closed to cars and open to everyone for walking, cycling, and dancing with Family Fun Day at Trum Field from 12-5pm. Throughout the day there will also be a Jazz and Blues Fest on Powderhouse Park from 12pm-8pm.

Somerville Climate Week: June 22nd-June 27th, 2010
Somerville Climate Action is a group of dedicated volunteers working together to raise awareness about global warming and who are taking action locally to stop it. There are many activities going on throughout this week including a climate cafe and screening of a movie called "A Sea Change". For a full list of the week's activities or to sign up to join SCA's google group, click here http://www.newenglandclimatesummer.org/.

Fourth of July Fireworks, Thursday July 1, 2010 at 6pm at Trum Field
The annual fireworks celebration will be held this year on Broadway at Trum Field. The street is closed to cars and becomes a regular summer fair with vendors selling hot dogs, streamers, and other things to help celebrate the 4th.

ArtBeat in Davis Square - July 16th & 17th, 2010
Artists and festival goers converge on Davis Square this weekend in July, transforming it into one of the area's largest and most exciting arts festivals. ArtBeat includes music, performance art, craft vendors, dance, theater, food, and more. Each year a theme is developed that serves as a launching point for artists and the community to express themselves. This year the theme is water.Artists are encouraged to explore water in its many forms- rain, puddles, ponds, oceans, ice floes. Or consider how we trap, transport and market water-via damns, pipes and fancy designer bottles. The organizers are hoping environmentalists will address shrinking water supplies, the politics of water and water pollution and that conversely, some artists will interpret the theme more playfully, exploring water-related activities like fishing, surfing and sailing. Provocative interpretations are also encouraged. For more information on Art Beat go to: http://www.somervilleartscouncil.org/programs/artbeat/.

The Incredible Edible Gardens of Somerville: A Self Guided Tour on Saturday July 25, 2010 11am-5pm throughout the city.
This year's Somerville garden tour celebrates the city's expanding community of food growers and their growing environments. Every version of the urban farm- from tiny rooftop gardens to expansive community plots- will be among the over two dozen public and private sites where fruits, vegetables, and herbs create a delicious medley. Gardeners will be present to share their experiences and demonstrate gardening tips and techniques. The garden tour program booklet/ticket is $10.00 and contains a map and description of the 31 gardens and the demonstrations that will be offered that day at different sites. For more information and advance ticketing, go to www.somervillegardenclub.org.

To volunteer contact Lisa Dezmelyk, dezmellisa@yahoo.com, or Alan Schwartzman, alan_s@mit.edu.

OPENAIR Circus, July 30-August 2nd at Nunziato Field on Summer Street
The OPENAIR Circus is a Somerville based non-profit organization, offering classes for children in the summer, workshops for children and adults, and performance opportunities for its students. As a community based organization, the OPENAIR Circus works to encourage neighborhood participation in the arts, and to promote leadership and self-esteem for children and teens. Students have performed in Somerville's ArtBeat Parade and Spice of Life Festival, Cambridge's Riverfest, Caribbean Carnival and Summer in the City Program, Boston's First Night Parade and Harvest Festival, WGBH's Ice Cream Festival, and King Richard's Faire in Carver, Massachusetts. On-line registration for the annual Circus is now open! For more information about the circus or to get involved, check out this link: http://www.openaircircus.org/schedule2010.asp.

Red Bones 9th Annual Pig Pickin' Event to Support the Somerville Homeless Coalition, Monday August 2, 2010 (rain date August 9th)
This annual event is not to be missed! Chester Street from Elm to Herbert is closed to cars and there's an outdoor BBQ with owner Rob Gregory on the grill. All proceeds benefit the Somerville Homeless Coalition http://www.somervillehomelesscoalition.org/.

Live music usually includes HONK! Festival brass bands and more. For more information on Red Bones and their great events supporting the community, check out: www.redbones.com.

Somerville 7th Annual Night Out, August 3, 2010 at Foss Park from 5-8pm
This annual event organized by Somerville Cares About Prevention (SCAP) is a community crime and drug prevention event. Last year, Somerville's National Night Out was a huge success; over 900 attendees joined in for free performances, refreshments, demonstrations, and youth activities. In addition, multiple organizations had information tables to educate the Somerville community. SCAP is inviting volunteers and organizations to participate again this year. If you are interested in volunteering, email SomervilleNNO2010@gmail.com with your contact information including your name, address, and phone number. All volunteers will receive a free t-shirt.

Annual Senior Picnic, Wednesday August 11, 2010, 11am at Powderhouse Park on College Ave and Broadway
This annual picnic is a great opportunity for seniors in the city to come together with other residents and elected leaders to celebrate the summer. For more information on the senior picnic, please click here http://www.somervillema.gov/Division.cfm?orgunit=AGING. to be in touch with the Council on Aging.

Neighborhood and Alderman Meetings

City Budget meetings will be held at city hall before the Board of Aldermen and are open to the public. The meetings will take place on June 15th, 16th, 21st, and 22nd.

Starting tonight, June 15th, the mayor will make his presentation on the financial situation of the city. The Board of Aldermen will deliberate on these dates and get presentations from each department head. On June 22nd there will be a public hearing where the public will have the opportunity to give their input into the process and ideas for areas of savings and innovation. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions about the budget process: Rebekah.Gewirtz@gmail.com.

To see a schedule of the departments we will take up each night, check out www.somervillema.gov. Alderman meetings now stream live on the web so you can watch from wherever you may be by going to that same website.

DARBI Networking Lunch, Wednesday, June 16, 2010 12-1:30pm at Johnny D's

DARBI stands for the Davis Area Resident Business Initiative and it is a group dedicated to bringing residents and businesses together for the advancement of Davis Square. DARBI has regular networking lunches where anyone in the area is welcome to attend and meet other people who live or work in the area that you may not meet any other way. Email DARBIlunch@gmail.com to RSVP. For more information on DARBI or to get on their newsletter list, go to: www.yourdavissquare.com.

Powderhouse School focus group meeting June 23, 2010 7-8:30pm at the Tufts Administration Building, 167 Holland St.

This meeting is hosted by the City and is being referred to as an open Focus Group for residents. It is designed to get neighbors to talk about the future of the square. Some neighbors have expressed concern about a focus group strategy vs. a reuse committee because a focus group implies that the building is slated to be sold and rezoned, while a reuse committee would be geared more towards figuring out all the different possibilities for the school. In any event, the city has decided to go with a focus group approach. This upcoming meeting of the focus group is open to the public and if you're interested, all are welcome to attend.

Parks and Open Space meeting of the Board of Aldermen June 28, 2010 at 6pm at City Hall

At this meeting we will take up Off Leash Recreation area planning in West Somerville (at a designated area at Dilboy Field) and get an update on the city beginning a voluntary composting program. Alderman Heuston and I raised this idea at an alderman meeting and the administration has been exploring implementing it. I originally began thinking about this because of a response to a a Constituent Corner section of my newsletter and then members of Somerville Climate Action did research work on it, which was incredibly helpful. We have learned that the composting program may begin at Farmer's Markets and expand from there if it is a success. If you're interested in either of these topics, please feel free to join us at this meeting.

Davis Square Task Force Meeting, September 2010, date and time TBD

The date and time of this meeting has not yet been set. If you would like to join the DSTF google group, please send an email mailto:rnewman@thecia.net. If you would like to join the organizing committee, please contact Hala Jadallah by clicking here hsavy01@gmail.com.

Spotlight on a Local Business:

Toni & Ana's Furniture
Specializing in new and repainted and refinished furniture 864 Broadway near Powderhouse Rotary This is another example of a local furniture store that just opened in the area to rave reviews. The store owners are incredibly helpful and will even offer to paint your choice of furniture the color you choose. Check it out for yourself!

Springtime 2010

Dear Friends,
It's starting to feel like Spring (minus the rain and wind!) and with it there is a lot coming up in and around Ward 6. For those of you who are new to my newsletter, welcome. In this version of my e-newsletter you will find information about events and happenings all around the neighborhood and some events in other parts of the city that might interest you, too.

If you have information you'd like me to share with others through my e-newsletter, send me an email to Rebekah@rcn.com.

Best wishes!
Rebekah

Ward 6 Fun Fact - Water

Did you know that the theme for Art Beat this year is WATER? Art Beat is a unique, inspiring, and fun festival that has a new theme each year. This year the festival returns to Davis Square July 16th and 17th. Applications for craft vendors are due March 29th. If you'd like to showcase your work or you know someone who is an artist who would like to participate in Art Beat 2010, don't delay! See: http://somervilleartscouncil.org/programs/artbeat/

Constituent Corner Constituent Corner

In this section of my e-newsletter, I'm looking to hear from you on important issues facing the city. Click on the link at the end of each question and let me know what you think. Getting your feedback on these issues is very important to me, and I hope this feature of my newsletter will encourage you to share your thoughts, ideas, and concerns. As always, feel free to contact me via email at rebekah@rcn.com or 617-718-0792.

1. Off Leash Recreation Area (OLRA) in West Somerville
   I have received a lot of requests from residents of Ward 6 and other areas in West Somerville to work on creating an off leash recreation area for dogs. As the chair of the Parks and Open Space Committee of the Board of Aldermen I have been having meetings over the course of the past two months to try to determine a good location for a West Somerville "OLRA". We have recently been talking a great deal about the Dilboy Stadium area as a good possibility but there has also been a recommendation for an area of the community path near Willow Ave and Cedar Street. I'm curious to hear your thoughts - would you like an OLRA in West Somerville and if so, where would you like it to be located? Send me your thoughts to: rebekah@rcn.com.
2. Charter Changes
   The Board of Aldermen is currently considering many changes to the City Charter recommended by a task force convened by the mayor. We are taking this issue up in the Legislative Matters Committee of the Board of Aldermen. Do you have strong feelings about the city charter? Is there a particular area that you would like to see strengthened or changed? All meetings are open to the public but there will also be a public hearing where you can make your opinions heard. The date for the public hearing will be announced soon. Let me know your thoughts by emailing me at rebekah@rcn.com.
3. Looming Cut to Local Aid
   It seems likely that state aid to Somerville will be cut this fiscal year due to the ongoing recession and because the impacts of dramatic and permanent tax cuts (largely for wealthy corporations and individuals) during the late 1990s are finally being realized. We will be taking up how to address a possible local aid cut of as much as 5% in the Finance Committee. If you had to cut something out of the budget, what would it be? To see the FY2010 budget, click here.

Community Events

DARBI Networking Lunch, Wednesday March 17, 2010 at 1:30pm at Johnny D's
DARBI stands for the Davis Area Resident Business Initiative and it is a group dedicated to bringing residents and businesses together for the advanacement of Davis Square. DARBI has regular networking lunches where anyone in the area is welcome to attend and meet other people who live or work in the area that you may not meet any other way. For more information on DARBI or to get on their newsletter list, go to: www.yourdavissquare.com

Fundraiser for Memorial Day Parade, Friday, March 19, 2010 at 7pm in the Somerville High School Auditorum, 81 Highland Ave
The office of Veteran's Services presents the 6th Annual fundraiser for the Memorial Day Parade. The evening will include live entertainment by Strictly Sinatra: A Tribute to Frank Sinatra and Liza Minnelli. For tickets or more information contact me at Rebekah@rcn.com or the Office of Veteran's Serivces at 617-625-6600 x4700. Donation is $20 per person.

Somerville Homeless Coalition's "Under the Roof", April 24,2010 at Arts at the Armory 191 Highland Ave. Somerville
This event marks the 25th anniversary of the SHC and honors their tremendous work to house the homeless. For more information or to buy tickets click here.

Spring Clean Up, Saturday, May 8, 2010 10am-2pm
Spring Clean Up happens in every neighborhood in Somerville on this day. Residents are invited to come out and lend a helping hand to clean up the neighborhood. In Ward 6, we meet in Statue Park in Davis Square to get clean-up tools and a free T-shirt! Ward 6 School committee member Paul Bockelman and I are there starting before 10am and we'll give you everything you need to go out and help make Somerville even more beautiful. For more information, contact me at rebekah@rcn.com or Paul at: pbockelman@aol.com.

Somerville Sunsetters Auditions, Monday May 17, 2010 at 6pm at the West Somerville Neighborhood School 177 Powderhouse Blvd
All Somerville residents in grades 6 - 12 are eligible to audition for the 25-member Sunsetters group. The Sunsetters is a traveling performance troupe, which performs classic show tunes and modern musicals in Somerville neighborhoods throughout July and August. All residents who'd like to audition are asked to come prepared to sing "You're the One That I Want," from the musical Grease! to be considered for the group. If selected, all individuals must commit to Monday- Thursday night rehearsals and performances from June 1st through August 20th. Rehearsals will be held at the West Somerville Neighborhood School from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. on Monday - Thursday evenings, with performances beginning on Thursday, July 1st during the City's Fourth of July Fireworks Celebration at Trum Field.

Summer Youth Program 2010, Open Enrollment happening NOW.
The full-day 40 hour per week program is open to Somerville kids ages 5-13 from June 28 - August 13, 2010, and youth may register for one to six weeks of the program. This program is available on a first-come first-serve basis. Eighty children per week are accepted into the program. The Program is open from 8:30am to 4:30pm, Monday- Friday, at the West Somerville Neighborhood School and it incorporates arts & crafts, private swimming, sports and games, as well as additional field trips. For more information contact Danielle Palazzo in the Recreation Department at 617-625-6600 x2980.

Neighborhood and Alderman Meetings

Housing and Community Development, Tuesday March 16, 2010, 6:30pm, Alderman committee room 2nd floor, City Hall
At this meeting, we will discuss two orders submitted by Alderman White: the first dealing with whether information required by Applications for Special Permits is reviewed for factual correctness as part of the review conducted by the planning staff; and the second is the state of business in Somerville and ways to gather input from businesses on the impact of the recession. We will also receive an update on the extension of the Green Line with special attention paid to the Route 16 terminus and the siting of the maintenance facility. All are welcome and encouraged to attend. For more information, contact me at rebekah@rcn.com.

Public Health and Public Safety Committee meeting, Monday March 22, 2010, 6:30pm, Alderman committee room 2nd floor, City Hall
This regularly scheduled meeting is chaired by Alderman White and issues range from safety at the MaxPac site to other concerns in the community around the health and safety of all residents. If you're interested in learning more, please contact Alderman White or city hall at 617-625-6600.

Parks and Open Space meeting, March 22, 2010, 8pm, Alderman committee room 2nd floor, City Hall
At this meeting we will take up three issues in particular: 1) The administration's request to approve amendments to the 2008-2013 Open Space & Recreation Plan, to extend the effective date of the Plan to 2015. 2) An order by Aldermen White and Sullivan that the Administration apply for a fruit tree planting grant sponsored by the Fruit Tree Planting Foundation. 3) And Off Lease Recreation Areas in West Somerville including a report to the committee on the parameters of the Dilboy Stadium lease.

Powderhouse School Neighborhood Meeting, March 31, 2010 7-8pm at the Tufts Administration Building 167 Holland Street.
This meeting is hosted by neighbors and will provide an opportunity for the community to learn about the City's planning process, discuss how redevelopment might impact the neighborhood, and discuss ways to ensure that this property will be reused to benefit our neighborhood and the City. For more information contact Rachel Heller at Rachel.Heller@gmail.com or Lou Ann David at louanndavid@comcast.net.

Davis Square Task Force meeting, April 20, 2010, 7-9pm at the Tufts Administration Building, 167 Holland St.
The Davis Square Task Force is one of the oldest and longest standing community groups in the area. All meetings are open to anyone who wishes to participate and there is an organizing committee of the Task Force that meets the Wednesday before each meeting to set the agenda. Task Force meetings are typically bi-monthly. For more information or to get on the Yahoo groups mailing list for the Task Force, please send an email here.

Davis Square Visioning Meeting, April 28, 2009 at 6:30pm at the Tufts Administration Building, 167 Holland St.
This will be the second meeting of a visioning process for our neighborhood. Staff at the Office of Strategic Planning and Community Development will be on hand to strategize with us and help facilitate this important discussion. What would you like to see happen in our neighborhood in the years to come? If you have questions or would like more information please send me an email to: Rebekah@rcn.com.

Spotlight on a Local Business:

Sunshine Lucy's
Vintage Furniture with Character
93 Holland Street.

This brand new locally owned and operated furniture store offers a wide variety of used and custom made furniture as well as upholstery, mattress sets, and accessories. The owners work in the store and you can check out the website here: www.sunshinelucys.com. I went into the store recently and was impressed with the wide variety of furniture and accessories. Check it out for yourself!

Looking Towards the New Year 2010

Dear Friends,
Well 2010 is here and with it there is much to tell you about that's happening throughout Ward 6 and citywide. I'm happy to let you know that at the inauguration ceremony on Monday night January 4th, I was elected Vice-President of the Board of Aldermen for 2010. I want to thank my colleagues for their support. I'm looking forward to the coming year!

In this newsletter you will find information mostly pertaining to events and happenings in the month of January. As more information and meetings get scheduled this winter I will likely send out another bulletin. As always, if you have information you'd like me to share with others through my e-newsletter, send me an email to Rebekah@rcn.com.

Best wishes in the New Year!
Rebekah

In this E-Newsletter

• Ward 6 Fun Fact
• Constituent Corner: Bowl and Board space at 255 Elm Street, Environmental Initiatives, CitizensConnect for Somerville
• Community Events: Letter writing party with Groundwork Somerville (1/6), Green Roof Forum (1/7), Somerville Democratic Caucuses (2/8)
• Neighborhood and Alderman Meetings: Housing and Community Development meeting about Green and Orange Lines (1/6), Parks and Open Space meeting about Hodgkins Park (1/6), Bowl and Board Space at 255 Elm Street Neighborhood Meeting (1/13), First Alderman meeting of the year (1/14), Davis Square Visioning Meeting (1/25), Davis Square Task Force Meeting (2/24)
• Announcements: Parking regulations take effect Jan 4th, Special election for the US Senate Jan 19th, I'm supporting Martha Coakley

Ward 6 Fun Fact

Did you know there are multiple websites and blogs about Davis Square and Ward 6? You can find out all about what's happening in the community and new ways to get involved through these sites:

• http://community.livejournal.com/davis_square
• http://www.somervilleresistat.org/Home_Page.html
• www.whyisthisimportant.net

Constituent Corner

In this section of my e-newsletter, I'm looking to hear from you on important issues facing the city. Click on the link at the end of each question and let me know what you think. Getting your feedback on these issues is very important to me, and I hope this feature of my newsletter will encourage you to share your thoughts, ideas, and concerns. As always, feel free to contact me via email at rebekah@rcn.com or 617-718-0792.

1. 255 Elm St, formerly Bowl and Board...what do you think of the new plan? Several months ago, Bowl and Board went out of business and left Davis Square. I was disappointed by this and also that it meant the loss of a locally owned retail store in Davis. In place of Bowl and Board, Ken Kelly, owner of the Independent in Union Square, has proposed a new restaurant and lounge, and to re-open the theater downstairs. What do you think of the plan? See the planning board staff report by clicking here.

   Send me an email to Rebekah@rcn.com [mailto:Rebekah@rcn.com]or come the community meeting I've schedule for Jan 13th at 6:30pm at 255 Elm St. (more details on that in the neighborhood meeting box below).

2. Environmental Initiatives for 2010... what's your idea for a sustainable Somerville? This year, I plan to focus on several environmental initiatives. My criteria for what I have prioritized so far has been the feasibility of the idea and the environmental impact/benefit of adopting it. Last term, I proposed and the Board of Aldermen passed the first in New England Plastic Bag Recycling Ordinance and the first in Somerville Tree Preservation Ordinance. This year I have already laid out plans to advocate for a car sharing program in the city and to initiate a green roof pilot plan. I'm interested in taking on at least one more initiative. Send me your idea and based on the criteria above I will aim to select one more initiative and prioritize it in 2010. Email me your idea to: Rebekah@rcn.com.

3. CitizensConnect for Somerville.. would you use it? At the last Board of Aldermen meeting in 2009, I discussed a new initiative just launched in Boston called CitizensConnect. It is an application for the iphone that allows residents to contact city hall using their iphone and track the progress of their complaint through the tool. This idea was brought to my attention by a constituent. If Somerville launched a tool like this, would you use it? For more information on Boston's program check out: http://www.cityofboston.gov/mis/apps/iphone.asp

Community Events

Letter writing party with Groundwork Somerville, January 6, 2010 6:30-8pm, 240 Elm St in Davis Square
Join Community Corridor Planning to write letters to Mass DOT during their Draft Environmental Impact Review (DEIR) comment period. If you have strong feelings about the design of the Green Line Extension through Somerville or you care deeply about equity, environmental justice, land-use design, or any other issue relating to the Green Line then stop by this fun, social letter writing party. Pizza and Cider will be provided. For more information check out: http://www.groundworksomerville.org/

First Ever Green Roof Forum, January 7, 2010, 7pm at the Visiting Nurses Association (VNA)
This event, which I am co-sponsoring with Somerville Climate Action will be an opportunity for community members to learn more about Green Roof initiatives and what the city is doing to advance this innovative technology. Green Roof technology has many environmental benefits including reducing the "heat island effect" felt most especially in dense cities with little green space; reducing our carbon footprint; and making our city more attractive and livable.

The structure of the evening will be a three part presentation followed by a discussion.

• Karen Weber on the benefits of green roofs
• Case study presentation by Apex Green Roof and Prospect Hill Academy about the installation of Somerville's first green roof on the school.
• Overview of current state legislation about green roofs, municipal initiatives that have worked, and hurdles that need to be addressed to get green roofs on Somerville municipal buildings.

The presentation will be followed by Question and Answer and conversation about next steps.For additional information, please contact Vanessa Rule of Somerville Climate Action at beckrule@rcn.com.

Democratic Caucuses, Monday, February 8, 2010 at 6:30pm at the Capuano School The caucuses are scheduled to elect delegates to the 2010 Democratic State Convention. Statewide office seekers are being invited to this event and all wards are caucusing at the same location, in the Capuano School that day. For more information please contact Kate Chang of the Democratic City Committee by clicking here Jackson336@gmail.com.

Neighborhood and Alderman Meetings

Housing and Community Development, Wednesday January 6, 2010, 6pm, Alderman committee room 2nd floor, City Hall
At this meeting we will discuss next steps with respect to the Green Line extension and we'll discuss a proposal for a second head house at the future Assembly Square T stop. If you're interested in either topic please attend this meeting. If you have questions, feel free to be in touch with me at Rebekah@rcn.com [mailto:Rebekah@rcn.com] or 617-718-0792. Parks and Open Space meeting about Hodgkins Park, January 6, 2010, 7pm, Alderman committee room 2nd floor, City Hall.

Hodgkins Park is under construction and plans are complete. At this Parks and Open Space meeting we will go over the final plans for the site and ask questions of the parks department staff with respect to the construction. This meeting is open to the public but it will not be a public hearing. You are welcome and encouraged to attend!

255 Elm Street (formerly Bowl and Board) Neighborhood Meeting, January 13, 2010, 6:30pm at 255 Elm Street

At this neighborhood meeting the community is invited to ask questions and give feedback to the proposed proprietor about the proposed restaurant and lounge he seeks to open at this site. The proposed leasee, Ken Kelly (who also owns the Independent in Union Square), also seeks to re-open the theater downstairs. A misleading flyer was recently distributed throughout the neighborhood indicating the plan is for an 800 person nightclub. This is false. To see the plan go to the links above in the Constituent Corner. For questions, please feel free to contact me at Rebekah@rcn.com or 617-718-0792.

First Alderman meeting of the year, January 14, 2010 at 7pm at Somerville City Hall.
Aldermen meetings are held the second and fourth Thursdays of the month. At this upcoming meeting committee reports will be given, orders discussed, and new items put forward. All alderman meetings are broadcast live on Somerville Cable Access television. For more information or if you have an item you'd like me to introduce, please email me at Rebekah@rcn.com. Davis Square Visioning Meeting, January 25, 2009 at 6:30pm at the Tufts Administration Building, 167 Holland St.

This will be the first meeting of a visioning process for our neighborhood. Staff at the Office of Strategic Planning and Community Development will be on hand to strategize with us and help facilitate this important discussion. What would you like to see happen in our neighborhood in the years to come? If you have questions or would like more information please send me an email to: Rebekah@rcn.com.

Davis Square Task Force meeting, Wednesday February 24, 2010, 7-9pm at the Tufts Administration Building, 167 Holland St.
The Davis Square Task Force is one of the oldest and longest standing community groups in the area. All meetings are open to anyone who wishes to participate and there is an organizing committee of the Task Force that meets the Wednesday before each meeting to set the agenda. Task Force meetings are typically bi-monthly. For more information or to get on the Yahoo groups mailing list for the Task Force, please send an email here.

Announcements

Parking Regulations take effect -- As of January 4th, 2010
All residential streets not under permit parking rules have switched to permit parking. Signs are in place and parking control officers are now issuing violations to vehicles parked on these streets without resident stickers, guest placards or other valid permits. If the signs on your street have changed, and you have not yet obtained a permit, you can call 311 during business hours for additional information. To learn about the changes online go to: http://www.somervillema.gov/spotlight.cfm?id=75

The Traffic and Parking office at 133 Holland Street is open: M-W 9am-4pm, Th- 9am-7pm, and Fri 9am-12pm.

Special Election
The Special Election for the US Senate seat (left vacant by the death of Sen. Kennedy) is coming up on Tuesday, January 19th. Please remember to vote! I'm supporting Martha Coakley and I hope you will too. For more information about Martha and to learn how to get involved in this important campaign, check out: http://www.marthacoakley.com/

Winter 2009

Dear Friends,
It's almost Thanksgiving and there are many different events and news updates to share. First, I want to thank you again for your support throughout my re-election campaign this year. I was honored to be elected for a third term. I'm looking forward to the coming two years - there's much work to do!

In this newsletter you will find information about upcoming events of interest and of course, the now regular Constituent Corner, where I'm interested to hear your feedback on issues happening now in the city.

Also in this newsletter, I will share my endorsement for the US Senate race. The primary is coming up December 8th. Please remember to vote!

As always, if you have information you'd like me to share with others through my e-newsletter, send me an email to Rebekah@rcn.com.
Best wishes for a warm and healthy holiday season,
Rebekah

In this E-Newsletter

• Rebekah's Endorsement for US Senate - Mike Capuano
• Constituent Corner: Staples in Davis Square, Green Line Hearing, Russell Disposal Contract
• Community Meetings: Ward 6 ResiStat meeting (Tonight, Nov 23) , Brown School Public
• Hearing (Nov 30), Davis Square Task Force meeting (Dec 1), Legislative Matters Historic
• Preservation (Dec 2), Somerville Local First Panel Discussion (Dec 7), Housing and Community Development (Dec 14), Young Somerville Advisory Group Meeting (Dec 16)
• Holiday Parties and Events: Tree Lighting at City Hall (Dec 3), Centro Presente Holiday Party (Dec 11), Somerville Illuminations Tour (Dec 19)
• New to Somerville: Contact the police anonymously through Tip411

Capuano

I'm proud to endorse our Congressman and former Somerville mayor, Michael Capuano for United States Senate. As our congressman, Mike has been a leader on so many critical issues - from increasing the minimum wage, to health insurance reform, to fair taxation, and opposing the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. In the senate I know he will continue to advance these values and that he will carry on the important legacy of Senator Kennedy. Mike Capuano is a strong progressive voice - a voice we need especially now in the US Senate.

Please join me in supporting Mike Capuano for US senate. For more information about the campaign go to www.mikecapuano.com.

The campaign is looking for volunteers between now and Election Day, December 8th. Please contact the campaign office if you're able to help at 617-868-2009 or me at 617-718-0792 or Rebekah@rcn.com.

Constituent Corner

In this section of my e-newsletter, I'm looking to hear from you on important issues facing the city. Click on the link at the end of each question and let me know what you think. Getting your feedback on these issues is very important to me, and I hope this feature of my newsletter will encourage you to share your thoughts, ideas, and concerns. As always, feel free to contact me via email at rebekah@rcn.com or 617-718-0792.

Should a Staples come to Davis Square?

There is a proposal being made by the owners of the Citizens Bank building on Elm Street on the corner or Bowers Ave. to bring a Staples to that space. I have been very concerned about large chain stores coming into the square. I'm curious to hear your thoughts. Would you want a Staples in Davis Square? Let me know by sending me an email to: Rebekah@rcn.com.

Green Line Extension Hearing.

Last week there was a hearing about the green line extension and the Draft Environmental Impact Report. You can find details about the report by going to this website: www.greenlineextension.org.

I testified at the hearing and talked about three things in particular: that the maintenance facility be placed at a location that is not harmful to residents or our economic development potential (in opposition to Yard 8); that the community path be extended at the same time as the green line; and that the Executive Office of Transportation initiate a community process that is inclusive and that involves the immigrant community in our city. What are your thoughts on the Green Line Extension and the report? Email me your ideas to: Rebekah@rcn.com

Somerville's Trash Contract.

This past week, the city renewed the trash contract with Russell Disposal. I've had concerns about Russell's labor practices. I voted in favor of extending the contract for the one year left of the current contract but not for an extended 5 years. Check out the article on the vote by clicking here.

What's your take on the debate and on Russell? Hearing from you is helpful. Email me at: Rebekah@rcn.com.

Meetings and Events

Ward 6 ResiStat meeting
TONIGHT, Nov 23, 2009 at 7:30pm, Ciampa Manor at 27 College Ave.
This is a great opportunity to share your thoughts and concerns with the Mayor, me, and City Department Heads.

Topics for discussion include:

• Parking regulations change roll-out
• Community path extension plans
• Hodgkins-Curtin Park renovation progress
• Davis Square economic development projects
• Environmental policies and initiatives
• Neighborhood-specific housing and transportation trends.

For a preview of the presentation, click here and to see a list of issues raised for Ward 6 in prior meetings, click here.

Brown School Public Hearing Monday, Nov 30, 2009 at 6pm at the Somerville Library
This hearing will focus on the 6th grade at the Brown School. All residents are invited to come to the hearing. I plan on attending the hearing to express my support for the Brown School and for keeping the 6th grade. The Brown School is the most cost efficient school in the city and one of the highest performing schools, as well. It's also a central part of our community. For more information about the hearing feel free to contact me or you could reach out to Ward 6 School Committee member Paul Bockelman.

Davis Square Task Force meeting
Tuesday December 1st 7-9pm in the Tufts Administration Building, 167 Holland St.
The Davis Square Task Force is one of the oldest and longest standing community groups in the area. All meetings are open to anyone who wishes to participate and there is an organizing committee of the Task Force that meets the Wednesday before each meeting to set the agenda. Task Force meetings are typically bi-monthly (on Monday nights). For more information or to get on the Yahoo groups mailing list for the Task Force, please send an email here.

Legislative Matters Historic
Preservation, Wednesday Dec 2, 2009 at 7pm, Somerville City Hall
The Historic Preservation Commission has been working over the course of the past 2 years to inventory the city to determine which structures are historically important and need to be preserved. At this meeting of the Legislative Matters Committee, we will hear from staff of the Commission and discuss next steps in terms of designating structures. This meeting is open to the public so please come if this topic interests you.

Somerville Local First Panel Discussion
Monday, Dec 7, 2009 at 7pm at the Somerville Theater in Davis Square
Somerville Local First, in partnership with Cambridge Local First announced the launch of "Shift Your Shopping" Holiday Campaign. This campaign will last between November 29 and December 31st and the goal is to urge people to shop locally. The launch of the campaign comes on the heels of a breakthrough New Orleans Study - Thinking Outside The Box by Civic Economics which shows that local retailers have twice the local economic impact of big box stores, while consuming a fraction of the land area. As a part of this campaign, Dan Houston, principal of Civic Economics, will be speaking about the New Orleans study and the impact of the Shift at this event at the Somerville Theater. Following the talk, there will be a panel discussion hosted by WBUR's Robin Young. Panelists include me, Michael Kanter of Cambridge Naturals, and SLF Founding Executive Director Joe rafton.

Housing and Community Development
Monday December 14, 2009, 6pm at Somerville City Hall
At this meeting we will discuss next steps with respect to the Green Line extension and we'll discuss a proposal for a second head house at the future Assembly Square T stop. If you're interested in either topic please attend this meeting. If you have questions, feel free to be in touch with me at Rebekah@rcn.com or 617-718-0792.

Young Somerville Advisory Group Meeting
Wednesday Dec 16, 2009 at 6:30pm at the Tufts Administration Building
The Young Somerville Advisory Group, convened by the mayor, is comprised of thirty 21 to 35 year old Somerville residents. The group's goals are to increase the number of young residents engaged in civic community, improve the quality of City services and increase communication between City government and people in this age group. For more information click here.

At the meeting on Dec 16th the group will be learning about DARBI - The Davis Area Resident Business Initiative.

Holiday Activities

Tree Lighting
City Hall, Thursday Dec 3, 2009 at 6pm at the City Hall Concourse on Highland Ave Join santa and other special guests at the annual tree lighting celebration. This event is family friendly and there will be refreshments in city hall before the event. For more information contact city hall at 617-625-6600 and ask for the mayor's office.

Centro Presente Holiday Party
Friday Dec 11th, at 7pm at the Somerville City Club, Inner Belt Road
Now based in Somerville on Inner Belt Road, Centro Presente is a member-driven, state-wide Latin American immigrant organization dedicated to the self-determination and self-sufficiency of the Latin American immigrant community. This holiday party will be a fun chance to come learn more about this important organization in our community. For more information about Centro Presente, check out their website at www.cpresente.org.

Somerville Illuminations Tour
Saturday December 19, 2009, leaving from City Hall
The Illuminations Tour is the Somerville Arts Council's annual trolley tour of holiday light displays. The 45-minute tour celebrates the folk-artistry of the many city residents who transform their houses and yards with lights, illuminated ornaments, and fantasy light displays during the darkest time of the year. Tours leave from (and return to) Somerville City Hall where coffee, hot chocolate, and cookies are served. Entertainment at City Hall includes choral music, courtesy of the Somerville Community Chorus, craft activities for children, and changing annual events.Get your tickets early since the tours sell out fast! Tickets are available on the Arts Council website:
http://www.somervilleartscouncil.org/programs/illuminations/

Do you know of other holiday events or festivities? Please let me know and if there are enough additional events I will share them through a special holiday newsletter Rebekah@rcn.com or 617-718-0792.

NEW to Somerville - Contact the Police through Tip411

The city recently announced a new program called Tip411 that enables cell phone users to send anonymous text messages to police and lets the police respond, creating a two-way anonymous "chat" that helps the police gain additional information while protecting the anonymity of their informants. Tip411 is designed for use in non-emergency situations only, and is not an alternative to 911. Cell phone users can send an anonymous tip to the Somerville Police Department by texting a message to 847411 (Tip411).

To be routed to the Somerville Police, the text message must begin with the key-phrase "617SPD" followed by the main body of the message.

The system is 100% anonymous because the technology removes all identifying information before the message is transmitted to the Police Department. When the police receive an alert from that a message has been received, Somerville Police officers can check a secure website to obtain the information and, if necessary, respond to the sender for follow up. The Police never see the number or the name of the cell phone owner which remain untraceable.

For more information about the program, contact Somerville Police or City Hall at 617-625-6600.

One Week Until Election Day

Dear friends and supporters,

There's one week to go until Election Day on Tuesday November 3rd and I wanted to give you a brief update. I have been doorknocking throughout Ward 6 talking to residents about their concerns and it has been a great and encouraging experience so far. I've been so grateful for the volunteers who have come out to support the campaign as well.

My opponent has gone negative and we are working to counter this negative message with our positive one. You can help by making a contribution today to my campaign at www.rebekahgewirtz.org or by sending a check to CTE Rebekah Gewirtz 36 College Ave #53 Somerville, MA 02144. And you can sign up to volunteer either this week leading up to Election Day or on Election Day, November 3rd. Please see the BLUE box below on all the ways you can help out.

Election Day is right around the corner so we need your help today! In this update I am also including information on upcoming meetings of interest and events in and around the neighborhood.

As always, If you have information you'd like me to share with others through my e-newsletter, send me an email to Rebekah@rcn.com.

See you soon,
Rebekah

Campaign Activities and how YOU can help!

Election Day is just ONE WEEK away on November 3rd and in order to continue to get the message out, we need your help! Here are just a few ways you can get involved in the campaign:

1. Make a contribution to the campaign. You can do this by going to my website or by sending a check to CTE Rebekah Gewirtz 36 College Ave #53 Somerville, MA 02144. $500 is the maximum contribution allowed by law. Your contribution makes a big difference.
2. Sign up to go door knocking or make phone calls by clicking here or calling us at 617-718-0792.
3. Volunteer to help on Election Day, November 3rd. We need a lot of volunteers that day so any time that you can give between 7am-8pm would be incredibly helpful! Click here to sign up for November 3rd.

THANK YOU VERY MUCH FOR YOUR CONTINUED SUPPORT

Also, we continue to update my new and improved website. Check it out for recent news stories and information: www.RebekahGewirtz.org

Upcoming Meetings and Events

Housing and Community Development Meeting Thursday, November 5, 2009 at 7pm at Somerville City Hall in the Alderman Committee Room

I am the chair of this committee and at this meeting we will continue our on-going discussion on the Green Line extension and the location of the maintenance facility. This meeting is in preparation for the public hearing that was called by the Executive Office of Transportation that will take place on November 18th at Somerville High. (see next item for more details)

Public Hearing on Green Line Extension before the Executive Office of Transportation, Wednesday November 18, 2009, 6pm at Somerville High School

Members of the public, agency representatives, and other project stakeholders are invited to attend the hearing and to make comments on the project. The comments made at the November 18 Public Hearing will be included in a transcript that will be submitted to the Federal Transit Administration (FTA). For more information go to: http://www.greenlineextension.org.

EVENTS

Community Action Agency of Somerville (CAAS) Open House and Annual Board Meeting, Thursday October 29, 2009 7pm, Somerville City Club on Inner Belt Road

CAAS is an effective anti-poverty agency in the city and this event is a great way to show support for their important work. For more information visit: www.caasomerville.org.

First Annual Tina DeLellis Luncheon with the Somerville Homeless Coalition honoring Rosemary Nolan of Sillari Realty, October 30 11:30-2, Highland Kitchen

Tickets are $25. RSVP to Mark at 617.623.6111 or MAF@shcinc.org.

Announcements

November 3rd -- ELECTION DAY in Somerville

Don't forget it's Election Day on November 3rd. Polls will be open throughout the city from 7am-8pm. For more election day information see the city website at www.somervillema.gov. Every vote counts, so be sure to vote!

Veterans Day Event, Wednesday November 11th at 10am outside the Dilboy Post on the corner of Summer Street and Cutter Ave in Davis Square Somerville Community Corporation 40th Anniversary Gala celebration, Friday November 13, 2009 at 6:30-10pm at the Armory on Highland Ave. For more information on this great event click here.

Discount on Prescriptions now available

Somerville residents may sign up to receive a card that will give them 20% off prescriptions at participating pharmacies. There are no restrictions based on age, income level or existing health coverage. The card can be used when purchasing prescription drugs at many pharmacies in the city as well as more than 59,000 retail pharmacies across the country. Participating pharmacies in or near Somerville include: Ciampa Apothecary, CVS, Inman Pharmacy, Rite Aid, Skenderian Apothecary, Stop&Shop, Target, and Walgreens. For more information, see: http://www.somervillema.gov/NewsDetail.cfm?instance_id=1511.

To sign up, go to: http://www.rxprintacard.biz/NLC/select.aspx

Flu Clinic Schedule Now On-Line

Somerville's flu clinic schedule is now online at http://tinyurl.com/flushotclinics.

The shots provided at these clinics are for the seasonal flu. As H1N1 vaccines become available to the city for dispensing, information will be made available to the public.