Good morning, Medford, Tuesday, March 10
Old man winter isn't done with us yet, but spring is clearly on the way. Today, we've got the scoop on a fun event happening this weekend for girls, some things that are on tap for today, and a few Did-You-Knows.
Apologies for being a little late on the draw this morning. I just had to open the windows and get outside for a few minutes. See that sun?!
Have you noticed that birds have become more active over the last week, the light has changed, the snow is really melting? I actually saw some daffodils sprouting up while I was walking my dog the other day. I don't think old man winter is done with us just yet, but the signs of spring are here.
There's an event happening this weekend that we want to tell you about now because you need to register ahead of time. Tufts Public Safety is hosting G.I.R.L.S. Day Saturday, March 14, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at at the Gantcher Center.
G.I.R.L.S. stands for "grit intelligence resilience leadership strength." The event, which is also sponsored by Medford Police, Somerville Police, and the Mass. State Police, is for girls ages 5-14 to learn through a variety of activities what it takes to be a first responder. Lunch will be provided. You must register by Thursday, March 12, at 5 p.m.
Happening today in Medford
International Culture for Seniors at 1 p.m. at the Senior Center. Event includes talks about different countries and cultures.
Teen Movie and Craft Night 6:30 p.m. at the library. Teens can bring their own craft or participate in one provided by the library. The movie will be “Mamma Mia!” Registration encouraged.
Community Garden Commission 7 p.m. at the library and via Zoom. On the agenda is a discussion about the Barry Park Garden.
City Council meeting 7 p.m. at City Hall and via Zoom. The agenda includes a proposed Medford Square City Hall Overlay District Zoning Amendment, a motion to properly fund Medford’s tree canopy, Medford Square parcels redevelopment, and Board and Commission appointments.
Did you know?
- Mystic Lakes programming mini grants: If you have an idea for welcoming, inclusive, community programming at Mystic Lakes State Park, you could receive a $500 grant to support it. Mystic River Watershed Association is inviting community members and local groups to apply by March 31. Three awardees will receive grants.
- AARP Tax-Aide program provides free tax assistance to community members, especially those over 60 who have low-to-moderate incomes. Sessions are held on Thursdays through April 9 at the Senior Center. You must make an appointment by calling 781-396-6010. Make sure you bring to your last year’s tax return and your 2025 documents.
- Fells Forest Camp: Registrations are now open for summer sessions for kids. Programs include Trailblazers, Art in Nature, Forest Kindergarten, Forest Adventurers, and more.
What we're working on
Nell is writing about ST Math, an interactive computer program that challenges students to solve problems without instruction from either teachers or the program itself.
Wendall and Chris are writing a piece about frogs because soon you'll be hearing the first spring peepers, those tiny, reliable harbingers of warm weather. We'll have lots of photos and some audio.
Chris is looking at the City Council's request that the mayor provide copies of all the lawsuits filed against the city over the last several years. In one of the most recent cases, Jewish organizations sued the city because of the values aligned investment ordinance. The mayor vetoed that ordinance, but then the City Council overrode the veto.
Chris is also working on a story about a move to bring home-sharing to Medford. It's an effort to help seniors and also alleviate the housing shortage. Basically, seniors who have their own homes would be paired with people looking for housing.
In case you missed it
Protestors were out in Medford on Saturday to say "ICE out of Medford" and to bring attention to how immigrant detention centers are being financed.
Wendall Waters | Staff Writer
