Good morning, Medford, Thursday, July 30
Happy Thursday, everybody. The MBTA is redesigning bus networks, and this affects Medford. There's an informational meeting this evening. It is in-person, but it will also be live-streamed.
In keeping with a trend across Massachusetts, Mystic Valley Elder Services (MVES) has rebranded. The new name is Mystic Valley Aging Services (MVAS).
Many organizations that had the word "senior" in their names are making changes to reflect what they say is a more accurate depiction of their mission and to reduce the stigma attached to getting older.
MVAS CEO Lisa Gurgone said in a press release, “Our new name reflects our mission, which has expanded during our 50-year history. We empower people throughout the aging journey, and we support adults with disabilities and family caregivers of all ages.”
“When we consulted with community members, partners, and other stakeholders, the message was clear," Gurgone said. "Not everyone identifies as a senior or an elder, but we are all aging. We are dedicated to fostering independence at every age, and our name change reflects that.”
There is a new logo to go with the new name, and the organization will be giving its website a makeover, too, to “offer a more user-friendly, streamlined resource.”
MVAS provides care and resources to 10 communities, in addition to Medford.
You may have already noticed that the Medford Senior Center has started its own rebranding. However, you will read in Chris's story, which is dropping this morning, that Medford is approaching it in a slightly different way.
Now, let's talk about today's happenings. Rain is in the forecast, so check before you go to outdoor events.
Happening in Medford today
If you have an event happening in Medford in the coming days, send the information to gottaknowmedford@gmail.com so we can add you to our calendar.
Senior Center Activities: Spanish class at 9:30 a.m.; whist at 10:30 a.m.; Core and Balance at 10:30 a.m.; conversational English at 11 a.m.; Art for Everyone at 1:30 p.m.
Gaining Perspective: Seeing Ourselves and the World Around Us at Medford Public Library through July 31 during library hours. Sponsored by the ArtsAlive Medford Foundation, this exhibit features photography and art projects created by Lakota youth, offering unique perspectives on identity, community, and the world around us.
Playgroups at the Park - Dugger Park from 9 to 11 a.m. with Medford Family Network. There will be art, music, and movement activities, parachute play, storytelling, balls, and bubbles.
Let’s Move! Outdoor Dance Classroom at 10 a.m. at Harris Park hosted by The Click and Medford Family Network. The program is recommended for Medford families with children ages 3 to 8, but all ages and abilities are welcome. No dance experience is necessary. Sign up for one or as many sessions as you want.
Toddler Time at 10:30 a.m. at Medford Public Library for children ages 2-3. Reading, songs, and gentle movement activities.
Senior Knitting Club at 1 p.m. at West Medford Community Center. Beginners can learn from experienced crafters.
Farmers Market and Bike Fest from 3 to 7 p.m. at the Condon Shell. In addition to the line-up of produce, meats, fish, baked goods, beverages and artisan crafts, there will be a kids activity area, face painting, and a neighboring beer garden. Special Bike Fest guests include Medford Bicycle Advisory Commission, Bike to the Sea, and JRA Cycles. Performers are: The Summer Street Stompers from 3 to 5 p.m.; Niteshade from 5 to 7 p.m.
American Cancer Society Fundraiser at The Ford Tavern from 3 to 10 p.m. The Ford is putting a team in the ASICS Falmouth Road Race to support the American Cancer Society, and 10% of every order will be donated.
Bus Network Redesign Open House from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at City Hall. The MBTA is hosting an open house to provide information and get feedback about proposed changes to bus routes 67, 80, 94, 96, and 350 throughout Medford, Cambridge, Somerville, and Arlington.
Zoning Board of Appeals meeting at 6:30 p.m. via Zoom, and the meeting will be live-streamed. The agenda includes continued and new hearings.
Teen Manga Drop In Book Club at 3:30 p.m. at Medford Public Library for teens to talk about their favorite manga series and watch anime clips.
Reading with Ryan from 6 to 7 p.m. at Medford Public Library. Pick your favorite book and sign up for a 15 minute reading spot to hang out with Ryan, the dog who loves to hear people read. Registration is required.
Awesome Artists at 6:30 p.m. at Medford Public Library for kids ages 5+ to learn about an artist's life and work and then work on a project in their art style.
Decoden Claw Clips Craft Night from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at Medford Public Library for teens to personalize claw clips with decoden cream and charms. All materials will be provided. Registration is required.
Medford Connects ESOL class from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Medford Public Library with Medford Connectors and instructor Karrie Peterson. Register.
Mollusk album release party, plus Thunderchief and Ingrate beginning at 7 p.m. at Deep Cuts.
In case you missed it
There will be nine questions on the ballot this November. Will Dowd has the rundown:
Will Dowd
