Good morning, Medford, Wednesday, March 25
We hope your day is getting off to a great start. And, if you're just getting off work from the overnight shift, today's newsletter will be a quick, uplifting read, and then you can get some shut-eye.
File this under “how many people get to do this?” A Medford resident found herself standing on the parquet in the center of the Celtics’ logo during a home game.
Ari Barbanell was honored as a Hero Among Us by the Celtics on March 1 during their game against the Philadelphia 76ers.
The Heroes Among Us program recognizes people who have made exceptional contributions to their communities. Barbanell received the honor for her work as an advocate for people experiencing homelessness. She is a co-founder of Winter Walk and is the executive director of Circle of Hope.
Winter Walk began in 2016 and now has fundraiser walks in many locations across the country. The organization provides financial support to partner non-profits that help people experiencing homelessness.
Circle of Hope delivers clothing, shoes, bedding, and hygiene supplies to homeless shelters, healthcare clinics, schools, first responders, and community organizations.
And, on that note, if you have not nominated someone for the Mystic Valley Elder Services Community All-Stars Awards, you still have time. the deadline to submit is April 1. Nominate someone you know who has made a significant difference in the lives of older people and people with disabilities in Medford.
Happening today in Medford
Zumba Gold for Seniors at 10 a.m. at the Senior Center.
"Peter Rabbit" Storytime at 10:30 a.m. at Moon and Back Bookstore.
Medford High Girls Softball Team takes on Belmont at Columbus Park at 4 p.m.
Commission for Persons with Disabilities at 5:30 p.m. at City Hall and via Zoom. On the agenda is the annual Medford disABILITY Fair.
Medford Community Chorale rehearsals begin at 6 p.m. for youth/young adults and at 7 p.m. for the full chorus. Auditions are not required. All welcome.
Sew Gay Club at 6 p.m. at Medford Public Library. Skill sharing session with The Queer Neighborhood Council. For everyone ages 8 and older. Bring a project to work on. Machines and supplies will be provided.
Joint meeting of City Council and Community Development Board at 6 p.m. in City Hall and via Zoom. The agenda includes a public hear on amendments to the Zoning Ordinance and a discussion about a proposed Medford Square City Hall overlay district.
Scoop Book Club at 7 p.m. at Colleen’s. For people in their 20s and 30s, and anyone else who wants the scoop on great books. The book selection is Rufi Thorpe’s “Margo’s Got Money Troubles.” Register via the Public Library.
Trivia Wednesdays at 7 p.m. at The Ford Tavern. Fast-paced trivia with Kevin Richman.
Bicycle Advisory Commission at 7 p.m. via Zoom. The agenda includes the upcoming Bike to Work Day, Bike to Sea Ride, way-finding audits for Alewife Brook and Mystic River reservations, planning for National Bike Month (May), and infrastructure updates.
In case you missed it
Nell reported on the results of the Youth Risk Behavior Survey, both the good news and the areas that need to be addressed.
Chris reported on the City Council’s request to the mayor: How many lawsuits have been filed against the city of Medford? And for how much?
And, we received the numbers from the Point-in-Time Count, when volunteers went out on a cold night in late January to connect with people experiencing homelessness:
Wendall Waters | Staff Writer
