In contrast, with electronic writing such as emails and blog posts, you can always
Do it for each other
We spend a lot of time on this forum having discussions and making arguments about how to be good citizens and good neighbors. The COVID-19 virus gives us all another chance to demonstrate our commitment to one another and the broader community. This has nothing to...We’ll try to fit it into the day
I’d like to make clear that this post is not a criticism: It’s more a story about the complications and cross-currents in our lives that arise from the COVID-19 virus. A Newton parent related the following story. Concerned about the virus, she’s been...
Public bike repair stations
As an avid biker and long-time supporter of programs that encourage riding, I’m always on the alert for municipal enhancements that could make it easier or more comfortable for those who want to employ two, rather than four, wheels to get around town. I was...Why not a survey for the Senior Center?
I note with pleasure that the City is conducting a comprehensive survey about people’s attitudes as it considers an update to the Open Space and Recreation Plan. (Deadline, by the way, of 13 February.) This is a thoughtful and well constructed instrument. Simple...
@MIT, SEPT is in July!
Finally, something we can all agree on. Please share with your favorite teachers! For one week this summer, teachers from around the world are meeting each other at MIT for the 31st annual Science and Engineering Program for Teachers (SEPT). Since 1989, over 2,000...Jake offers a hint of things to come
Jake Auchincloss’ newsletters remain one of the best ways to learn about the major issues facing the city, particularly when it comes to budgetary matters, and his latest is no exception. In today’s email, he raises a concern that has been invisible in the...Stormwater runoff is yucky
I was intrigued to read a press release this week from the Charles River Watershed Association and the Conservation Law Foundation about stormwater protection for the Charles River. Excerpt: [CRWA and CLF] have reached a proposed settlement with the U.S. Environmental...Confessions of a curmudgeon
I’ve lived in my current residence in Newton Center since 1981. I’ve always made it a point to shovel our sidewalk–during (sometimes 2 or 3 times) and shortly after snowstorms–feeling a community obligation to clear the passageway, especially...Knapp’s vision for a new senior center
Marian Knapp has added to last month’s Newton Tab column with an article in this week’s edition. It’s called “My vision for a new senior center.” It is not yet available on line, so I am writing this to encourage people to dig their copy...A well-informed electorate
I’d like to make a proposal for your consideration and would welcome your thoughts, suggestions, and criticisms. I don’t know if this is original or if it has been considered in some form before; but, in any event, I’m moved to make it. Thomas...
P.P.P.P.P.S. — Really?
Admittedly too much time on my hands today between forays to comply with the shoveling ordinance, but here goes: Is anybody else annoyed by the Mayor’s consistent use of P.S., P.P.S., P.P.P.S., P.P.P.PS., and yes (today), even P.P.P.P.P.S. in her weekly updates? I was always taught that a post-scriptum is something you think of after the main text has already been written. In the old days, or even the days of typewritten letters, you would have already written your closing lines, signed the letter, and then you thought of something you had meant to say or that might enhance your main point or that might offer a tangential thought. You would employ a P.S. to create that addendum.
Crazy Divers: Men be like...
drivers man be like