Rebekah Gewirtz

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

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.

Fall News 2009

Dear Friends,

Fall is just around the corner and there are some exciting events happening in Somerville and Ward 6 including the now annual HONK! Festival. See below for all the details. I'm being challenged for re-election this year so I've been spending a lot of time this summer talking to new and longtime voters throughout the neighborhood. It's been inspiring to hear people's stories and to share all the great work we've done together over the past four years. The election is coming right up on November 3rd and there's more information below about how you can get involved in the campaign. I hope you'll also join me for my upcoming re-election party on September 23rd at Red Bones BBQ. See more details in the sidebar.

In this edition's Constituent Corner I'm interested in learning your take on some pressing issues in the city. Please check it out and let me know what you think! As always, if you have information you'd like me to share with others through my e-newsletter, send me an email to Rebekah@RebkahGewirtz.org

Best wishes for a Happy Fall,
Rebekah

Ward 6 Fun Fact

Lyndell's Wins Best Place to Buy Birthday Cake A staple of Ball Square, the 120 year old Lyndell's Bakery on the corner of Broadway and Willow Ave was recently recognized by the readers and editors of the Boston Parents Paper as among the Best of the Best for 2009 in Eastern Massachusetts to buy birthday cakes. If you've never gone, check it out. And if you're a regular make sure to congratulate Lyndell's on their continuing tradition of great pastries in the neighborhood! link

HONK! Festival Returns to Davis Square

Mark your calendars for October 9-11th for the fourth annual HONK! Festival. HONK! is an exciting and eclectic festival that features activist brass band musicians throughout Davis Square. This year, organizers are predicting as many as 350 musicians from all over the world will descend on Davis Square for the weekend. I will help kick off the festival in Ten Hills Park behind the T on Holland St in the morning on Oct 10th with the opening "Honk" of the festival. There are many fun and amazing ways that friends and neighbors can participate in the festival. Visit to see details and learn how to host musicians in your home, participate with Bread and Puppet in Sunday's parade, or volunteer throughout the weekend. You can alsosend an email directly to volunteer@honkfest.org.

HONK! is a great local event dedicated to social change and promoting the reclamation of public spaces. I'm proud to support the festival and welcome musicians from all over the world to Davis Square again for the 4th annual festival.

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@RebekahGewirtz.org or 617-718-0792.

1. Citywide Strategic Planning Process. This fall, the city will begin a citywide planning and visioning process. This process will be all inclusive and the city will convene a steering committee made up of more than 50 people from various geographic areas of the city and from different active community groups. Like every other ward, Ward 6 will have two representatives to the committee, plus there will be two representatives from the Davis Square Task Force. I'm particularly interested in the future of Davis Square and Ball Square with the coming of the green line extension. I'm also interested in building consensus on how to keep Davis Square vibrant as we move into the future. What are your ideas? Share some with me by emailing me at Rebekah@rcn.com [mailto:Rebekah@rcn.com]. I'll select some of the most interesting ideas and with your permission, feature them in future newsletters and on my website.
2. Buena Vista Garage parking option. For many years there has been talk about opening up this garage to public parking at night and on the weekends. Some people would like to see a valet service at the garage, some would like employee parking, and others would like general public parking. As everyone knows, parking is at a premium in Davis Square and I have worked with the mayor to negotiate with the owners of this lot's lease to make this space usable to the public. If the Buena Vista garage (on Buena Vista Rd) were open to the public what use would you like to see for it? Send me your ideas to Rebekah@rcn.com [mailto:Rebekah@rcn.com].
3. Green Line T Stop in Ball Square. Several weeks ago I participated in a planning meeting for the neighbors who live near the future Ball Square Green Line T stop. Many ideas came to the surface about how people would like to see the city plan and prepare with the neighborhood for the stop. Ideas like ensuring affordable housing, parking, open space and more. Do you live near Ball Square or are you an interested resident living somewhere else in the city? I'm curious to hear your thoughts on the future of Ball Square and how the community should prepare and engage for the coming of the Green Line. Email me your thoughts and ideas to: Rebekah@RebekahGewirtz.org.
4. Wireless Device Recycling for Somerville. At the Board of Aldermen meeting on August 27th, I proposed the city begin a wireless device recycling program. The way it works: the administration would set up a cardboard drop box at city hall and other locations where people can drop off their old cell phones they no longer need. The city would contract with a company to take the phones, scrub them of data and recycle their parts. The best part is there's no cost to the city and, in fact, the city would get money back for recycling the devices. Plus, the program could dramatically decrease the number of old cell phones that wind up in landfills each year. Would you recycle your old phone if there was an opportunity to do so? Let me know. Email me at: Rebekah@RebekahGewirtz.org.

MEETINGS

Board of Alderman meeting, Thursday September 10, 2009 at 7pm at City Hall Board of Aldermen meetings fall on the second and fourth Thursday of each month. At this upcoming meeting both the mayor and I will be honoring John McKenzie, who is an Irving Street resident for his commitment to the community. For the past 28 years, each week John has prepared and served homemade meals to the elderly and the homeless at the Community Baptist Chuch on College Ave. He is an honored World War II veteran and a kind and loving neighbor. I have heard many stories, especially recently, of the fondness felt for John by his neighbors. Board of Aldermen meetings are open to the public and if you'd like to come up to city hall to help us honor John, please do. I know many of his friends and neighbors will be there. Davis Square Task Force meeting, Monday September 14, 2009 at 7pm 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). The next organizing committee meeting to set the agenda for the 14th will be on Wednesday September 9th at 5:30pm at Au Bon Pain in Davis Square. If you'd like to help set the agenda for the upcoming Task Force meeting, please feel free to attend the organizing meeting on the 9th. For more information or to get on the Yahoo groups mailing list for the Task Force, please send an email here rnewman@thecia.net.

Finance Committee meeting and public hearing about the I-Cubed program proposal for Assembly Square, Wednesday September 16, 2009 at 6pm at City Hall The Board of Aldermen Committee on Finance is discussing a program made available by the state known as "I-Cubed", which would provide a $50 million incentive to the city for the growth and development of Assembly Square. There are many details involved in this program. To learn more and to share your opinion on the program, please come to this public hearing at City Hall.

Public Health and Public Safety Committee meeting Thursday, September 17, 2009 at 6:30pm at city hall I am a member of this committee and we will be discussing various issues of public safety and public health at this upcoming committee meeting. For more details, please contact me and I will get you an agenda. To access agendas for Board of Aldermen committee meetings go to the city website: www.somervillema.gov

EVENTS

National Eat-In at Lexington Park on the Bike Path on LABOR DAY, September 7, 2009 11am-2pm.

What: Potluck lunch, kids activities, and conversation
Why: To send a clear message to Congress that it's time to provide America's children with real food at school.
Organizers are asking people to bring a dish to share that is:

• Nutritious
• Delicious to kids
• COSTS LESS THAN $20 TO MAKE

Also, to minimize waste, please bring your own utensils, plates, and cups. You can learn more about the event and sign up to bring a dish by going to www.slowfoodsomerville.blogspot.com.

Somerville Garden Club Perennial and House Plant Sale, September 19, 2009 from 9am-1pm in Davis Square Each year the Somerville Garden Club holds a plant sale in Davis Square. Rain or shine, this event occurs at the intersection of Holland St and College Ave in Davis Square. Continuing a long tradition of pass-along plants, gardeners around the city donate plants that perform well, some particularly beautiful varieties.

This annual event benefits the educational and horticultural activities of the Somerville Garden Club, an all-volunteer organization. The club maintains plantings at the Central and West Library Branches, Powderhouse Rotary, and a site along the Community Path at Highland Ave. The club also sponsors monthly programs on gardening and landscaping methods and related environmental topics, open to the public. Meetings are held the second Wednesday of every month at 167 Holland St, second floor. For more information visit: www.somervillegardenclub.org

Square Dedication for David Maclaren Watson on the corner of Cutter and Highland Ave Saturday, September 19, 2009 at 11am Square dedications are a great way for the city to honor those people who have lived in Somerville and have served in the army or navy. This square dedication honors David Watson and it's open to the public.

Somerville Homeless Coalition 5K Road Race, Saturday October 3, 2009 at 9am SHARP in Davis Square Have you signed up yet for the Road Race benefiting the Homeless Coalition? If you haven't don't worry, there's still time. Go to www.somervillehomelesscoalition.org Entry Fee: $20.00
Registration & Check In: On race day 7- 8:30am on Holland Street, in front of MBTA Red Line T-Stop, Davis Square. Wheelchairs must pre-register by September 26 to ensure safety precaution with city police. Raise over $100.00 and enter the race for free!

All proceeds from the race benefit the Somerville Homeless Coalition. For more information, contact Mark at (617) 623-6111 or maf@somervillehomelesscoalition.org

Somerville Public Library Annual Book Sale at the Central Library on Highland Ave - 3 dates in October. Here are the dates and times:
Friday, October 23, 2009 2-4pm
Saturday, October 24, 2009 10am-4pm
Sunday, October 25 1:30-3:30pm
For more information, please contact Linda Bohan by clicking here.

with Friends of the Somerville Public Library. All proceeds benefit the Friends of the Public Library.

Support my Re-Election Campaign

How to get involved...

This year I'm being challenged in the election that's coming up November 3, 2009. I've been knocking on doors all summer talking to voters in Ward 6 about their concerns and sharing some of our many accomplisments together. 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. Contact my campaign manager, Alex and sign up to doorknock or make phone calls by clicking here.
2. Get a lawn sign for your yard. Click here to send Alex an email so she can put you on this growing list!
3. Send "Dear friend" cards to your friends and neighbors in Ward 6 either on paper or through my website and let them know why you're voting for me on November 3rd. To get these cards send an email to this address Alex@RebekahGewirtz.org.
4. 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.
5. Join us at the September 23rd party at Red Bones to support my re-election campaign. Click here for details.

THANK YOU VERY MUCH FOR YOUR CONTINUED SUPPORT

Also, I've launched a new and improved website thanks to Ward 6 resident Mattison Narramore who has worked tirelessly to design it. Thank you Mattison! Check it out: www.RebekahGewirtz.org

NEW! SpotLight on a Locally Owned, Independent Ward 6 Business

Local resident and artist, Alden Todd, runs Rock and Tree Landscape out of his home at 44 Meacham Road. Alden's business is entirely via word of mouth.

Rock and Tree Landscape specializes in maintenance, garden design, and pruning. I understand it's a great time of year for pruning so if you need help in your garden, contact Alden at aldentodd@gmail.com.

If you know of a small, independent, locally owned business in the area that you would like featured in this new semi-regular segment of my e-newsletter, send me an email with details about it to Rebekah@RebekahGewirtz.org.

Summer 2009 -- update!

Summer is finally here and there's a lot to tell you about from events happening in and around Ward 6 to the conclusion of the Fiscal Year 2010 budget process. Next weekend is ART BEAT in Davis Sq. See the Ward 6 Fun Fact below for more detailed information about Art Beat 2009. I'm also interested in your feedback on several current issues so be sure to check out the Constituent Corner and let me know what you think!

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.

Alderman Committee Meetings

Joint meeting of Housing and Community Development and Land Use on Tuesday July 21, 2009 6pm at Somerville City Hall, 2nd Floor Committee room. This is the first meeting devoted to discussing the city's comprehensive community plan, which involves planning for the green line corridor. The meeting will not be a public hearing but it is open to the public and if you are interested, please come! The comprehensive planning process began with a series of City-sponsored information sessions focusing on key trends in Somerville including demographics, housing, employment industries, transportation and infrastructure, and land use patterns. Part of this joint meeting will be to discuss the establishment of an advisory committee composed of residents and businesses with diverse areas of expertise to guide the planning process. The committee will be made up of appointees by the Mayor and Board of Alderman, constituents with expertise in relevant subjects, and residents/businesses from across the city.

Tentatively schedule... Legislative Matters Committee meeting, Tuesday August 25, 2009 at 7pm at Somerville City Hall, 2nd Floor Committee room.

Public Health and Safety Committee meeting on Wednesday August 26, 2009 at 6pm at Somerville City Hall, 2nd Floor Committee room.

Upcoming Events this Summer:

Art Beat, Friday evening, July 17 and goes through the day on Saturday July 18th from 5-10pm. This event, which is sponsored by the city and the Somerville Arts Council is one of the most anticipated events of the year. On Saturday the streets in the heart of Davis Square are closed to car traffic and artists and vendors from across the country come to Davis to sell their work and to perform. 5-10pm Friday night, musical performances at Seven Hills Park. Saturday July 18th - Over 100 vendors lining Elm and Holland Streets plus performances at Seven Hills Park, on the corner of Chester and Elm Streets, and between Starbucks and Chipotle in the Davis Square Plaza.

Green Line Planning meeting for Ball Square stop on July 14, 2009 at 6:15pm Nathan Tufts Field House, Powderhouse Park Hosted by Somerville Community Corridor Planinning which is a partnership of Groundwork Somerville, the Somerville Transportation Equity Partnership (STEP), the Somerville Community Corporation (SCC) and the Somerville Community Health Agenda. CCP is a grassroots, non-profit coalition committed to resident participation in planning for a livable, equitable Somerville. This meeting is one of several throughout the city where you can come talk with your neighbors about how you think the Green Line will affect: Transportation, pollution, green space/open space, rent and property taxes, and your favorite businesses.

For more information: Contact CCP at 617.628.9988, 617.776.5931x230 or communitycorridorplanning@groundworksomerville.org. Somerville Commissions Cookout on Saturday, August 1, 2009 12-2pm at the Somerville Growing Center on Vinal Avenue

Enjoy FREE FOOD and meet the members of the Commissions!

• Find out what they do,
• How to get involved, and
• Why the commissions are so important to Somerville Sponsored by: Human Rights Commission, Somerville Commission for Women, Multicultural Affairs Commission

Red Bones Pig Pickin' Fundraiser on August 10, 2009, 6 - 9 pm on Chester Street outside Red Bones 8th Annual Pig Pickin' & Benefit for the Somerville Homeless Coalition, Rain Date: Aug 17. $25 per person, $10 for kids under 10. Live music by the SAPS & other bands.

Annual Senior Picnic, Wednesday August 12, 2009 11am-2pm at Powderhouse Park The Senior Picnic is an annual event, inviting all Somerville senior citizens to enjoy a picnic lunch in the park complete with music, entertainment, food, and dancing. The event is sponsored by the mayor's office and the Somerville Council on Aging.