Massachusetts news

• Boston Landmarks Commission

  21-08-2026 07:00 via beaconhilltimes.com
  Notice Of Public Hearing. The Boston Landmarks Commission will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, August 25, Design Review Hearing – 4 p.m.and the Business Meeting at 6 p.m. ZOOM: https://www.zoomgov.com/j/1651490508 Subject of the Public Hearing will be action on the agenda below, and such other business as may come before the Commission in accordance with Chapter 772 of the Acts of 1975, as amended.Attention: This hearing will only be held virtually and NOT in person. You can participate
  
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• Upcoming film screening at Copley BPL highlights voters’ rights ahead of ’26 midterms

  21-08-2026 07:00 via beaconhilltimes.com
  Ahead of the ‘26 midterm elections, True North Action Alliance Boston, a dual chapter of Indivisible and Progressive Mass, continues its four-part documentary and community discussion series, the Good Trouble Film Series, with a screening of the 2025 documentary, ‘Democracy Under Siege’ on Thursday, Sept. 10, from 5 to 8 p.m. at Rabb Hall at the Copley Square Branch of the Boston Public Library.
  Directed by Oscar- and Emmy-nominated filmmaker Laura Nix, the film “traces t
  
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• The Legend of Sleepy Hollow: A musical reading at Old North Church

  21-08-2026 07:00 via beaconhilltimes.com
  The candles will be lit, the pews will be full, and the Headless Horseman will ride again inside Boston’s oldest surviving church. On Friday, Oct. 9, Old North Illuminated will partner with Crescendo Productions to present “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow: A Musical Reading,” bringing Washington Irving’s classic tale of Ichabod Crane to life inside the candlelit, 303-year-old sanctuary of Old North Church.Actor Johnny Kinsman will deliver a dramatic recitation of the story, p
  
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• Suffolk County DA Hayden is proud of his many accomplishments

  21-08-2026 07:00 via beaconhilltimes.com
  When Suffolk County District Attorney Kevin Hayden was introduced at a recent political event in Revere, the applause was substantial.
  Revere Mayor Patrick Keefe praised Hayden in his remarks, stating, “We’re here to celebrate our public safety. We have the most sworn officers, police and fire, that we’ve had in over two decades. We haven’t had a homicide in the City of Revere in over four years.”
  A week later at an event in Chelsea, residents gave Hayden an equally
  
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• Park Square Building poised for office-to-apartment conversion

  21-08-2026 07:00 via beaconhilltimes.com
  An 11-story block-long office building at 31 St. James St. in the Back Bay, known as the ‘Park Square Building,’ is now poised to be redeveloped into 490 apartments, The Boston Globe first reported last week.New York-basedVanbarton Group has proposed what would become Boston’slargest office-to-residential conversion project, entailing the redevelopment of the 540,000-square-foot property located on St. James Street between Arlington and Berkeley streets. If approved, the projec
  
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• MBTA successfully completes latest infrastructure work on Green Line

  21-08-2026 07:00 via beaconhilltimes.com
  The MBTA has announced the successful completion of its latest infrastructure improvements along the Green Line, including work on two major projects: critical signal upgrades within the central Green Line tunnel and the C Branch Accessibility Improvements Project. This work took place during nine consecutive days of service suspensions between Government Center and Babcock Street on the B branch, Government Center and Cleveland Circle on the C branch, North Station and Kenmore on th
  
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• City of Boston Election Department issues reminders ahead of State Primary, issues call for poll workers

  21-08-2026 07:00 via beaconhilltimes.com
  The Boston Election Department is reminding voters that the State Primary will take place on Tuesday, September 1. This election will determine the candidates on the ballot in the upcoming State Election on Tuesday, November 3.Poll Worker Recruitment
  The Election Department is recruiting poll workers for the upcoming State Primary on Tuesday, September 1, 2026. Poll workers are paid a stipend ranging from $160-200 in addition to payment for required training. Being a poll worker is a meaningful
  
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• City of Boston earns 4-star certified welcoming designation

  21-08-2026 07:00 via beaconhilltimes.com
  Mayor Michelle Wu, the Mayor’s Office for Immigrant Advancement (MOIA), and Welcoming America announced that the City of Boston has earned a 4-star Certified Welcoming designation from Welcoming America, recognizing Boston as a national leader in creating policies, programs, and practices that support immigrant inclusion and belonging.
  “Boston has been shaped by generations of immigrants seeking a better future and working hard to build the city we enjoy today,” said Mayor Mich
  
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• Boston Public Library announces 2026 Fall Lecture Series

  21-08-2026 07:00 via beaconhilltimes.com
  The Boston Public Library (BPL) announced its 2026 Fall Lecture Series, bringing award-winning authors, acclaimed filmmakers, and influential visionaries to Copley Square and the Shaw-Roxbury Branch this fall, with programs spanning literary fiction, documentary film, and public conversations on science and technology. All events are hybrid – free to attend in person or live via Zoom Webinar. Registration is available at bpl.org/events.  At a Glance:• Sept. 22 — Sarah
  
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• Boston Athenaeum announces free Community Day open house, September 19

  21-08-2026 07:00 via beaconhilltimes.com
  The Boston Athenaeum invites the Boston community to its fourth annual Community Day open house on Saturday, September 19, welcoming all residents, visitors, families, and friends across the city to explore the landmark historic building at 10½ Beacon Street from 10 am – 3 pm. The event is free and open to everyone.Guests will have the opportunity to view rare items from the Athenaeum’s special collection, share stunning views of the Granary Burial Ground, Boston Public Garden
  
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• West End Museum celebrates Boston roots of Leonard Bernstein with live musical performance

  07-08-2026 07:00 via beaconhilltimes.com
  On Friday, Sept. 18, at 7 p.m., The West End Museum, in partnership with Queer History Boston and Crescendo Productions, invites the neighboring communities of Beacon Hill and the West End to a special live musical performance celebrating the legendary Leonard Bernstein. The event will take place at the Hub Community Room at North Station, located just steps away at 52 Causeway St.

  This lively musical program, entitled ‘West End Story: Community and the Music of Leonard Bernstein,&r
  
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• The Rose Kennedy Greenway Conservancy announces upcoming 2026 seasonal program lineup

  07-08-2026 07:00 via beaconhilltimes.com
  The Rose Kennedy Greenway Conservancy announced its lineup of upcoming summer and fall events and activities, inviting residents and visitors to enjoy free events, experiences, and seasonal amenities in the heart of Boston. Building on an exciting summer of citywide events and celebrations, The Greenway continues to be a welcoming place for recreation, relaxation, and community connection, featuring food trucks, beverage gardens, fitness classes, festivals, markets, public art, refreshed fountai
  
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• Salads score despite recalls

  07-08-2026 07:00 via beaconhilltimes.com
  This is a great time of year to add salads to your menu. However, with the recent recalls of lettuce, some of you might be dodging this option. Let us remind you that there are salads from all over the world that never come close to lettuce or other greens. 
So step away from those wiltable side salads and skip the salad green mixed bag. Now is your opportunity to explore salads that can be made in large batches, enjoyed for more than one meal, plus do a better job of supplying a wide rang
  
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• PROTECT Act passes in the Legislature

  07-08-2026 07:00 via beaconhilltimes.com
  After months of deliberation, commission-building and drafting, An Act promoting rule of law, oversight, trust and equal constitutional treatment—the PROTECT Act (H.5620) – has been passed in both chambers of the legislature. The PROTECT Act was originally filed by the Massachusetts Black and Latino Legislative Caucus and guards against violations of all residents’ Constitutional rights, promotes trust in local and state police, and protects against fear-inducing federal immigr
  
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• News Briefs 8-14-26

  07-08-2026 07:00 via beaconhilltimes.com
  West End Museum’s August programming continues

  The West End Museum, located at 150 Staniford St., Suite 7, in partnership with Queer History Boston, will offer a screening of ‘1988 Boston Pride March’ and community night on Aug. 18 at 6 p.m.

  Learn the local history of pride routes, enjoy ‘80s tunes, snacks, crafts, and community; ‘80s attire is encouraged, but not required. This event is made possible by Massachusetts LGBT Chamber of Commerce and MA250
  
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• NEW Health Celebrates National Health Center Week with Community Event

  07-08-2026 07:00 via beaconhilltimes.com
  North End Waterfront Health (NEW Health) celebrated National Health Center Week (NHCW) with a free community celebration on August 4 at its Charlestown site, which is Charlestown’s first full-service health center and is committed to improving the quality of life for its over 5,000 patients in the neighborhood.This annual celebration endorsed by the National Association of Community Health Centers helps raise awareness about the mission and accomplishments of America’s health centers
  
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• New England Aquarium applauds Boston flood protection plan

  07-08-2026 07:00 via beaconhilltimes.com
  Given its location on Boston’s waterfront, the New England Aquarium is particularly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, experiencing flooding during storm surges, king tides, and other extreme weather. Since 2019, the Aquarium has been among those leading the conversation about sea level rise and the importance of coastal preparedness, advocating for a comprehensive resiliency plan for Boston and championing a downtown waterfront for all—one that is resilient, accessible, an
  
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• More than an itch: Treating and preventing

  07-08-2026 07:00 via beaconhilltimes.com
  Between backyard barbecues, beach vacations, and hiking trails, warmer weather encourages us to spend more time outdoors. But alongside all the summer fun in the sun comes the often-overlooked health risk of insect bites and stings.Many people consider insect bites to be nothing more than an itchy inconvenience. A mosquito bite, a bee sting, or a tick found after a hike may seem like an inevitable part of enjoying nature. However, some bites and stings can lead to serious health concerns, includ
  
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• Massport to begin Phase 2 of runway safety work at Boston Logan Airport

  07-08-2026 07:00 via beaconhilltimes.com
  The Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport) will begin the second phase of critical runway safety improvements at Boston Logan later this month, with work expected to be completed before Thanksgiving. This phase continues the installation of the Engineered Material Arresting System (EMAS) at the end of Runway 27, building on work completed last fall. The project is an important investment in maintaining and enhancing the safety of Boston Logan’s airfield. To accommodate construction, Runwa
  
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• Markey, Pressley release report showing success of fare-free transit

  07-08-2026 07:00 via beaconhilltimes.com
  Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), member of the Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, and Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07) released a new report, Making Transit Free, Frequent, and Reliable: Massachusetts shows the need for federal investment in fare-free transit, detailing the need for increased federal investments in fare-free transit. Senator Markey and Congresswoman Pressley are lead sponsors of the Freedom to Move Act, which would provide $25 billion to communities to pilo
  
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• Long-term left-lane closure on Bowker Viaduct plan

  07-08-2026 07:00 via beaconhilltimes.com
  The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) is announcing a long-term left lane closure on the Bowker Viaduct in the northbound direction between the Boylston Street intersection and Storrow Drive in Boston. This closure will begin on Monday morning, August 17, and is necessary to support ongoing construction activity related to the Bowker Overpass Replacement Project. This closure is anticipated to remain in place until the end of this year. 

  Vehicular barriers and a fixed w
  
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• Henry Lee Fund for Boston Parks grant application cycle

  07-08-2026 07:00 via beaconhilltimes.com
  The Friends of the Public Garden opened applications for small grants supporting community-led improvements to neighborhood parks and public greenspaces across Boston through the Henry Lee Fund for Boston Parks. Neighborhood groups, resident associations, nonprofits, and other community organizations may apply, and official 501(c)(3) status is not required.Established in 2024, the Henry Lee Fund helps Boston residents and community organizations turn locally identified ideas into lasting improve
  
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• Helping Rescue animals

  07-08-2026 07:00 via beaconhilltimes.com
  There are many ways you can help dogs in rescue situations. You could volunteer with a rescue group or shelter and see what assignments might fit your lifestyle and schedule. You could walk dogs and play with cats, giving critters one-on-one attention while they are in the shelter. If you have more time, you could visit and assess potential adoptive homes. You could also help transport animals to and from shelters, foster homes, or new families.
  Foster Homes
  If you’ve ever wondered whether
  
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• Council recognizes community resources supporting health and well-being across Boston

  07-08-2026 07:00 via beaconhilltimes.com
  Strong communities are built through access to resources that support residents’ health, connection, and quality of life. During this week’s Council meeting, the Council adopted resolutions recognizing National Farmers Market Week and National Health Center Week, honoring the organizations, workers, and community partners who help support residents across Boston.

  The Council recognized National Farmers Market Week, celebrated annually during the first week of August, and highl
  
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• Clean water and land conservation advocates launch ‘YES on 6’ campaign with Charles River

  07-08-2026 07:00 via beaconhilltimes.com
  Clean water and land conservation advocates from across Massachusetts gathered on the Charles River Esplanade — and ceremonially launched a boat into the Charles River — to mark the official launch of the “YES on 6” ballot campaign. Question 6, the Protect Water and Nature ballot initiative on the November statewide ballot, would dedicate funds from the existing state sales tax on sporting goods to protecting and conserving water and nature — without raising taxes.S
  
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• City announces 26th annual Gospel Fest

  07-08-2026 07:00 via beaconhilltimes.com
  Mayor Michelle Wu has announced that Gospel Fest, an annual City event that showcases local and national gospel talent, will take place on Sunday, August 30, at 5 p.m. on City Hall Plaza. The show will be headlined by Billboard Gospel Charts-topping artist Todd Galberth. 

  “This summer, Boston showed the world what it means to be a welcoming, beautiful and family-friendly city for everyone, and we are excited to keep that spirit going with our annual Gospel Fest,” said Mayor Wu
  
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• Boston Ballet announces 2026–2027 company roster

  07-08-2026 07:00 via beaconhilltimes.com
  Boston Ballet Artistic Director Mikko Nissinen announces the 2026–2027 season roster. The Company includes a diverse roster of 67 professional dancers from around the world. Four new dancers join the main Company, eight new dancers join Boston Ballet II (BBII), and 10 Boston Ballet and BBII dancers received promotions for the upcoming season.“As I celebrate my 25 years with Boston Ballet, I can’t imagine a more inspiring group of artists to lead,” said Artistic Director M
  
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• BHAC set to meet Aug. 20

  07-08-2026 07:00 via beaconhilltimes.com
  The Beacon Hill Architectural Commission will hold a public hearing on August 20 at 5 p.m.

  ZOOM: HTTPS://WWW.ZOOMGOV.COM/J/1655520374

  Subject of the hearing will be applications for Certificates of Design Approval on the agenda below, reviews of architectural violations, and such businesses as may come before the commission, in accordance with Chapter 616 of the Acts of 1955 of the Massachusetts General Law as amended. Applications are available by request. Applicants or their repr
  
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• Archaeological report reveals extent of historic Bunker Hill finds

  07-08-2026 07:00 via beaconhilltimes.com
  Months after ground-penetrating radar and historic 1775 maps first pointed to potential buried history at the Bunker Hill Monument, those high-tech clues have resulted in tangible discoveries right beneath our feet. Back in June, the Charlestown Patriot Bridge reported on the initial stages of this groundbreaking archaeological effort to map out the battle’s original footprint. 

  Now, the City of Boston Archaeology Program has released the highly anticipated findings from its summer
  
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• We love affogatos

  31-07-2026 07:00 via beaconhilltimes.com
  Here’s the setup for pour-your-own affogato corretto: vanilla ice cream in the cup, espresso in the tiny pitcher, and a shot of amarretto in the glass.We’ve always been surprised that dining spots that serve espresso drinks and ice cream don’t have affogatos on their dessert or after-dinner drink menus. We hope that as these traditional Italian drinks gain traction on social media, the hospitality industry will recognize that this can be a welcome and profitable add-on to a me
  
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