Brookline’s Controversial Babcock Street Calming Project Still On

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January 19, 2018

Babcock Street is back in the public eye next week. On Monday evening there is a transportation board meeting at town hall on current traffic calming measures after a series of (ahem) potholes slowed the process down.

Residents of the Coolidge Corner area say Babcock Street is a mess and are arguing for something – anything – to be done to make the area safer for pedestrians, bikers and everyone else. But they cannot quite agree on what that will look like, how many if any parking spaces to take and whether to include speed humps. To make matters a bit more complex, fire officials are concerned about what any changes could mean for their trucks and timing when they head out to respond to emergencies.

Earlier last year the traffic board together with community members sat down to hammer out a plan to calm the traffic there. Feelings were mixed about whether to get rid of parking and install a protected bike lane or use speed humps or raised crosswalks or a combination. They eventually decided on a plan, but when the project made it to the Select Board in the summer, they sent it back with several points to consider.

The project is funded by Chapter 90 money from the state, so it needs to follow design guidelines from the state. It is those state regulations that prompted the design team to incorporate extreme traffic calming elements like speed humps.

The state requires that any street that receives Chapter 90 projects has to have an average traveling speed of 25 miles per hour. Speed studies of Babcock Street showed that the average traveling speed was 27 to 29 miles per hour, prompting the designers to turn to speed humps and raised crosswalks.

The project was scheduled start construction in June 2017.

Is A Parking Space In Brookline Worth $45,000

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Brookline.com

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January 18, 2018

A piece of real estate about the size of a coffin comes with a drop-dead price in Brookline.

It is nearly $45,000 for a parking spot, but snow removal is extra.

The spot, off Addington Road, hit the market in November for $15,000 more than it costs now.

In Brookline, parking is at a premium. But the spot is not even premium parking. For one thing, you are at risk of getting sideswiped and there is a tree stump that makes getting out of the passenger seat a little difficult.

To be fair, the listing does not promise voluminous, capacious or anything of the sort.

Though it may be in a “sought after location,” the property description also advises it is “suitable for compact car only.”

“It seems like a lot of money, but it’s not unreasonable for a parking space in Brookline,” The Presti Group’s Gina Dirocco said.

Dirocco says there is a good reason why, in Brookline, this humble pad of asphalt could fetch such a seemingly outrageous price.

“Most towns around here will let you park overnight nine months out of the year. All the months except the winter. Brookline, however, does not offer parking anytime of the year. Ever,” she explained.

With a low-enough interest rate, it is even possible slot number 12 could wind up costing less per month than a rented space.

Still, what might make good economic sense in the long run might not feel, to some, like good common sense in the short term.

It has been on the market for a while and still has not sold.

Should Brookline Install Artificial Turf At Cypress Field?

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Brookline.com

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January 18, 2018

YES

Joe Ranft

Brookline resident, father of twins at Brookline High School

I am urging Brookline to install a synthetic turf field at Cypress Field, next to Brookline High School. I have to admit, as a staunch environmentalist, I’m surprised I’ve come to this position. Here’s why I have:

My son is a freshman who plays soccer at Brookline High School and previously for Brookline baseball and soccer town teams. His last week of high school soccer this season was canceled because it rained once, and the soccer field at Cypress Field was closed by the town before the rain, during the rain, and after the rain. This canceled five practices and two games. This is typical for Brookline. Grass fields at parks and schools are often closed if they are too wet.

Calling Cypress Field a “field” is a bit charitable. It’s really just weeds and dirt. My son says it’s embarrassing to play home soccer games there, and that it hurts his knees and ankles to play on it. Years ago it was a lush, new grass field, the type grass proponents support. But it has deteriorated through wear and tear and lack of funding for maintenance.

I believe this will happen again if Brookline invests millions in grass again. Sure, it will open as grass, but it will soon be reduced to dirt and weeds, unavailable at the hint of rain. Investing in grass wastes money. With our town budget looking at a massive override for our schools, we need to ensure our other expenditures are allocated wisely.

Nearly every other community we travel to has an artificial, crumb rubber turf field adjacent to its high school. This type of field, made from recycled tires, gives me pause because their safety is under study. And even though Brookline has installed crumb rubber at three other locations, I’m happy the town has proposed a more modern turf, with organic infill. This seems safer, and it’s why I support this plan.

The town needs an athletic field that’s more reliable and available than a grass field. As we urgently try to get our children outside, away from their iPhones, we should do everything we can to ensure they have the facilities and support they need.

NO

Brian Hochleutner

Brookline Precinct 6 Town Meeting member; former capital projects chief of staff for New York City’s parks department

Brookline residents are lucky: We’ve inherited a great public park system. But with that inheritance comes a duty: to maintain and protect it. Cypress Field, near Brookline High School, needs such protection. Purchased in 1871 as one of America’s first municipal parks, it has been heavily used by nearby residents and others for nearly 150 years. Today, Cypress is the largest Brookline park in its dense urban neighborhood, but with grass worn from heavy use over many years, it needs renovation.

Pointing to current conditions, some claim that a grass field at Cypress is unsustainable, and that it should be replaced with plastic turf. I understand the thinking to a point: I have two kids who play soccer, and artificial turf fields can withstand heavy use over long hours. But keeping grass at Cypress Field is the right choice for many reasons.

Green plastic is not real green space, which Brookline needs more of, not less. Many residents, with little or no private outdoor space, rely heavily on Brookline’s parks. Losing 3.5 acres of green space at Cypress would be devastating.

Plastic turf would make Cypress less inviting and usable to many people (particularly seniors and kids) who don’t play active team sports and instead use the park for various other purposes — to relax, play, eat lunch or dinner, walk a dog, sunbathe, or just listen to the crickets. Plastic turf gets very hot and contributes to global warming and urban heat island effects; grass cools and has other environmental benefits, soaking up storm water and as a habitat for birds, bees, insects and wildlife.

Installing plastic at Cypress Field would be four times more expensive than refurbishing the grass ($2 million vs. $500,000). The $1.5 million saved by maintaining the grass could instead go toward acquiring badly needed land for more playing fields.

Saying we must either install plastic turf or accept currently existing worn-out field conditions is a false choice. Cypress Field is long overdue for reconstruction. Refurbished grass, including better soil mix, grading, and drainage, would be a huge improvement, allowing the field to withstand heavier use and continue serving the diverse mix of residents it has served for so long.

“Cryptocurrency Scheme”: Unregulated Digital Token Sales Lead To Charges

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Brookline.com

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January 18, 2018

The Bay State’s top securities regulator has charged a Brookline man with selling millions of dollars in “Caviar tokens” through unregistered securities through a “cryptocurrency scheme,” the latest in a trend where companies sell digital currency without regulatory oversight.

“This serves as a warning to those who would try to use the recent bitcoin craze to circumvent securities laws in Massachusetts,” Secretary of the Commonwealth William Galvin said. “My Securities Division will be monitoring these cases closely to ensure Massachusetts investors are not being taken advantage of by so-called ICO (initial coin offering) promoters trying to cash in on the latest get-rich-quick scam.”

Caviar, a company incorporated in the Cayman Islands but run out of a Brookline home by Kirill Bensonoff, according to Galvin’s office, is selling Caviar Tokens for 10 cents apiece, with the promise of a return on investment for the buyers. Caviar has said it plans to use the proceeds of the sale to fund real estate flipping transactions and digital currency investments.

“Bensonoff and Caviar seek to use the proceeds of the ICO to finance the creation of a hedge fund and offer freely transferable shares to investors in the form of Caviar tokens,” a complaint filed yesterday says. “Bensonoff and Caviar have offered and continue to offer Caviar tokens without registration or exemption from registration in the Commonwealth.”

In a statement, Bensonoff denied that he was putting investors at risk.

“Caviar has been seeking to be innovative in our use of blockchain technology in connection with real estate lending while also taking an approach that we think doesn’t implicate the securities laws,” Bensonoff said in an email. “We certainly believe we haven’t misled or harmed anyone.”

He said the company and Galvin’s office had been in discussions prior to the complaint.

“I was very disappointed by the Secretary’s sudden filing of this complaint while we are in the midst of what we thought was a constructive dialogue,” Bensonoff said. “We expect to continue that dialogue and believe that we can meet the Secretary’s concerns regarding Massachusetts purchasers.”

Galvin’s office does not make any allegations about the quality of the investment in the complaint, but Galvin said by not registering, investors would be left in the dark if something nefarious does happen.

“He needs to be licensed and registered in Massachusetts,” Galvin said. “Whether the underlying investment has merit or value, I’m not going there at this point.”

Just last year, companies raised nearly $3.5 billion from individual investors through November by selling digital currency, according to cryptocurrency site CoinDesk.

Other ICOs sell cryptocurrencies that are designed to play a crucial role in their product’s design and give users an incentive to contribute to the product. That was not the case for Caviar, Galvin said.

MassHousing Finances $38M For Low-Income Brookline Senior Housing

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Brookline.com

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January 18, 2018

MassHousing has provided $38 million in financing to Hebrew SeniorLife
for the acquisition, renovation and preservation of 98 affordable rental homes for low-income senior citizens and disabled residents at the Julian and Carol Feinberg Cohen Residences in Brookline.

MassHousing is supporting the rehabilitation of the Cohen Residences with a $28.3 million construction and permanent loan and a $9.7 million bridge loan. The MassHousing financing also generated $16.1 million in equity financing for the project, through an allocation of Low-Income Housing Tax Credits. The transaction also includes a $2 million seller note.

“Brookline has some of the highest housing costs in the country, and this transaction will ensure that the low-income seniors living at the Cohen Residences have an affordable home for decades into the future,” said MassHousing Acting Executive Director Tom Lyons. “Hebrew SeniorLife was not only committed to extending the affordability for the residents, but also to making significant improvements that will substantially upgrade and modernize the property.”

“At Hebrew SeniorLife, one of our greatest priorities is to provide affordable housing with services that allows seniors to live independent, productive, and happy lives,” said Lou Woolf, Hebrew SeniorLife President and CEO. “We know that seniors can only live healthy, fulfilling lives when they have an affordable place to live. We are so appreciative that MassHousing shares that vision and mission. We couldn’t have asked for a better partner – their support has been critical to the success of this project.”

Hebrew SeniorLife plans to make extensive improvements to the Cohen Residences, including upgrading unit interiors, repairing the roof, repairing or replacing siding and windows, upgrading or replacing major building systems, and substantially improving the building’s energy efficiency. The Cohen Residences are one of Hebrew SeniorLife’s three buildings that make up the Center Communities of Brookline senior living community.
The Cohen Residences are comprised of 21 studio apartments and 78 one-bedroom apartments in a high-rise building at 112 Centre Street in Brookline. The financing transaction extends affordability at the property for at least 30 years. The Hebrew SeniorLife affiliate owner will also extend the federal Section 8 Housing Assistance Payment Contract on 98 units for 20 years.

MassHousing has financed or administers the rental subsidy for 5 rental housing communities in Brookline involving 687 housing units and an original total loan amount of $109.1 million. MassHousing has additionally provided $23.6 million in financing to 200 Brookline homebuyers or homeowners who refinanced their property.

About Hebrew SeniorLife, Inc.

Hebrew SeniorLife, an affiliate of Harvard Medical School, is a national senior services leader uniquely dedicated to rethinking, researching and redefining the possibilities of aging. Founded in Boston in 1903, the nonprofit, non-sectarian organization today provides communities and health care for seniors, research into aging, and education for geriatric care providers. For more information about Hebrew SeniorLife, please visit here, follow them on Twitter @H_SeniorLife, like them on Facebook or read their blog.

About MassHousing MassHousing

The Massachusetts Housing Finance Agency is an independent, quasi-public agency created in 1966 and charged with providing financing for affordable housing in Massachusetts. The Agency raises capital by selling bonds and lends the proceeds to low- and moderate-income home buyers and homeowners, and to developers who build or preserve affordable and/or mixed income rental housing. MassHousing does not use taxpayer dollars to sustain its operations, although it administers some publicly funded programs on behalf of the Commonwealth. Since its inception, MassHousing has provided more than $22 billion for affordable housing. For more information, visit the MassHousing website here, follow us on Twitter @MassHousing, subscribe to our blog and Like us on Facebook.

Boston, Brookline, Cambridge & Somerville Launch “SNAP Card to Ride” Bike Share

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Brookline.com

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January 18, 2018

The Metro-Boston public bike share system, Hubway, is now available at a significant discount to low-income families and individuals. “SNAP Card to Ride” was launched by the Cities of Boston, Cambridge, Somerville, the Town of Brookline, the Department of Transitional Assistance, and bikeshare operator Motivate.

“SNAP Card to Ride” provides $5 monthly memberships and $50 annual memberships to individuals over the age of 16 with their household EBT card. The membership includes unlimited 60-minute trips, rather than the current 30-minute trips, without additional usage fees.

The program is part of an ongoing commitment to improve bike share access among traditionally underserved populations. Residents who do not receive SNAP benefits, but participate in other public assistance programs, will be able to access the discounted membership program in the near future.

Convenient, easy online registration is available for EBT card holders. After completing registration, members will have access to more than 1,800 bikes at 194 stations across the four municipalities. Members with smartphone access can use the Hubway mobile app to locate and unlock bikes.

“During the Go Boston 2030 planning process, Boston residents shared their desire for a more reliable, equitable and accessible transportation system, which includes our increasingly popular bike share system,” said Boston Mayor Martin J. Walsh. “The City of Boston is pleased to be part of the SNAP Card to Ride partnership, and we look forward increasing the number of stations and bikes in Boston over the next 18 months.”

“Hubway has evolved to become an invaluable tool for facilitating active transportation for people that live and work in the greater Boston region,” said Chair of the Brookline Select Board, Neil Wishinsky. “We are excited that the SNAP Card to Ride program will make bike share more accessible so everyone has the opportunity to utilize this great resource.”

“Cambridge residents, commuters, and visitors benefit from the Hubway system, and this program is an essential way to ensure that every member of our community has access to this great transportation resource,” said Louis A. DePasquale, Cambridge City Manager. “We look forward to continuing to work with our municipal partners in promoting cost-effective, sustainable transportation throughout the Metro Boston region.”

“Hubway’s new low-income membership is a key element of Somerville’s affordability strategy,” said Somerville Mayor Joseph Curtatone. “Riding a bicycle can be one of the most cost effective ways to get around an urban environment like Somerville, and I’m proud that in 2018 we will see nine new Hubway stations and two miles of protected, low-stress bike lanes to give more residents a better opportunity to travel throughout Somerville – and beyond – by bike.”

“Hubway shows that bike share is fulfilling its promise as a vital part of the Boston area’s transportation network — increasing access to the region’s existing transit network as well as communities underserved by public transit,” said Jay H. Walder, CEO & President of Motivate, operators of Hubway. “We are eager to continue to help grow a system that has truly served as an inspiration for a whole generation of bike share programs across the nation.”

The four municipalities that own Hubway aim to provide further access to the discounted membership program. Building on the long-running reduced-cost membership provided by the City of Boston to its low-income residents, the expanded program will be open to residents of any municipality. In addition, the City of Boston will provide a subsidized program to guests and clients of shelters and transitional homes within the city. Further details about eligibility and income requirements will be announced in spring 2018.

Winter riding is available in all four municipalities for the first time this year, following several years of winter operations in the City of Cambridge. Boston, Brookline, Cambridge, and Somerville announced major expansion of the publicly-owned system. Collectively, they will add over 100 new stations in 2018 and 2019, providing over 300 stations and approximately 3000 bicycles for public use.

About Hubway

The Hubway system is regional public transportation by bike, owned by the municipalities of Boston, Brookline, Cambridge, and Somerville and operated by Motivate, a national leader in bike share. With more than 190 stations and 1800 bikes, the system has more than 15,000 members across the region. Since launching in July 2011, the riders have taken more than 6.5 million trips. More information about the system, including station locations, can be found here.

About Go Boston 2030

Go Boston 2030 is the City of Boston’s long term mobility plan. It envisions a city in a region where all residents have better and more equitable travel choices, where efficient transportation networks foster economic opportunity, and where steps have been taken to prepare for climate change. Whether raveling by transit, on foot, on a bike or by car, people will be able to access all parts of Boston safely and reliably. A list of projects and policies have been developed that are being implemented as early action projects in the near term, and a set of long term projects and policies are intended to be implemented over the next 15 years.

Emerald Acquisition, Ltd. Has $21.403M Stake In Brookline Bancorp, Inc. (NASDAQ:BRKL)

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Brookline.com

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January 15, 2018

Emerald Acquisition, Ltd. cut its position in Brookline Bancorp, Inc. (NASDAQ:BRKL) by 20.7% during the third quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm owned 1,756,298 shares of the company’s stock after selling 457,395 shares during the period. Emerald Acquisition, Ltd.’s holdings in Brookline Bancorp, Inc. were worth $21,403,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

A number of other institutional investors have also recently bought and sold shares of the company. Moody Aldrich Partners, LLC increased its position in Brookline Bancorp, Inc. by 172.7% in the second quarter. Moody Aldrich Partners, LLC now owns 232,522 shares of the company’s stock worth $2,565,000 after buying an additional 147,252 shares during the period. Deprince Race & Zollo, Inc. increased its position in Brookline Bancorp, Inc. by 18.5% in the second quarter. Deprince Race & Zollo, Inc. now owns 1,668,511 shares of the company’s stock worth $18,404,000 after buying an additional 260,056 shares during the period. Swiss National Bank increased its position in Brookline Bancorp, Inc. by 2.3% in the second quarter. Swiss National Bank now owns 121,000 shares of the company’s stock worth $1,335,000 after buying an additional 2,700 shares during the period. Dimensional Fund Advisors, LP increased its position in Brookline Bancorp, Inc. by 6.2% in the second quarter. Dimensional Fund Advisors, LP now owns 5,756,502 shares of the company’s stock worth $63,493,000 after buying an additional 337,931 shares during the period. Finally, Nationwide Fund Advisors increased its position in Brookline Bancorp, Inc. by 0.6% in the second quarter. Nationwide Fund Advisors now owns 205,862 shares of the company’s stock worth $2,271,000 after buying an additional 1,263 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 75.16% of the company’s stock.

Shares of Brookline Bancorp, Inc. (NASDAQ:BRKL) remained flat at $16.40 during trading on Monday. 156,914 shares of the company were exchanged. The stock has a market cap of $1.16 billion, a PE ratio of 21.98 and a beta of 0.93. The company has a 50-day moving average price of $15.70 and a 200-day moving average price of $12.75. Brookline Bancorp, Inc. has a 1-year low of $9.91 and a 1-year high of $16.72.

Brookline Bancorp, Inc. (NASDAQ:BRKL) last released its earnings results on Wednesday, October 19th. The company reported $0.19 earnings per share for the quarter, topping the Zacks’ consensus estimate of $0.18 by $0.01. Brookline Bancorp, Inc. had a net margin of 20.13% and a return on equity of 7.60%. During the same quarter last year, the business posted $0.18 earnings per share. Equities analysts expect that Brookline Bancorp, Inc. will post $0.74 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Separately, Compass Point downgraded Brookline Bancorp, Inc. from a “buy” rating to a “neutral” rating in a research note on Friday, November 18th. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and three have assigned a buy rating to the company. Brookline Bancorp, Inc. has a consensus rating of “Buy” and a consensus price target of $12.63.

In other news, COO James M. Cosman sold 12,500 shares of the company’s stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, November 23rd. The shares were sold at an average price of $15.05, for a total transaction of $188,125.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief operating officer now owns 40,098 shares of the company’s stock, valued at $603,474.90. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through this link. Also, Director David C. Chapin sold 21,402 shares of the company’s stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, November 22nd. The shares were sold at an average price of $14.89, for a total transaction of $318,675.78. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Company insiders own 2.82% of the company’s stock.

Brookline Bancorp, Inc. Company Profile

Brookline Bancorp, Inc. operates as a multi-bank holding company for Brookline Bank and its subsidiaries; Bank Rhode Island (BankRI) and its subsidiaries; First Ipswich Bank (First Ipswich) and its subsidiaries, and Brookline Securities Corp. As a commercially focused financial institution with 50 full-service banking offices throughout greater Boston, the north shore of Massachusetts and Rhode Island, the Company, through Brookline Bank, BankRI and First Ipswich (individually and collectively the Banks), offered a range of commercial, business and retail banking services, including cash management products, online banking services, consumer and residential loans and investment services throughout central New England, as of December 31, 2016.

Ice Cream On Sundays And Water From The Charles: A look At Brookline’s Oldest Laws

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Brookline.com

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January 15, 2018

Centuries after Brookline was established, it is easy to take for granted what makes Brookline, Brookline – from the representative Town Meeting to the layout of the roads.

Sitting in the town clerk’s digital files is a database of special acts and petitions the town has accepted over the years, with some of the oldest accepted pieces of legislation dating to the 1850s. Though one of his predecessors started the archive on hard copy, Town Clerk Patrick Ward transferred it into a digital database of nearly 400 pieces of legislation.

Compiled from the work of past town clerks’ and Ward’s efforts, the database contains the names of the legislation and when Brookline passed them, but it does not contain descriptions or documents with further explanation. What information is there was gleaned from old town warrants, reports and other documents in town archives, according to Ward.

For Ward, who loves history, the project has been a source of great enjoyment but as his responsibilities have increased Ward has found less and less time to verify the legislation and further build the database. As such, Ward said he is hesitant to put it online, but thinks the database is still important.

“It’s something I think the town should have as an archive,” Ward said.

Though it is not complete, the database offers an interesting look at Brookline’s evolution, with legislation ranging from the weighing of hay, to the switch from a six- to five-day work week for town employees.

“If you look back at the really historical ones, what you see has been done is infrastructure [and] planning,” said Ward.

Here is a look at what Brookline officials and Town Meeting members were discussing way back when.

An Act to Incorporate the Brookline Railroad Company – 1857
According to Ken Liss, president of the Brookline Historical Society, the act gave the Brookline Railroad Company the right to build horse-drawn railways in parts of the town – with some restrictions.

Horse-drawn railways were common in other areas around Boston, particularly Roxbury and West Roxbury. According to Liss, the goal for the Brookline Railroad Company was to build a railway to the West Roxbury Company’s line which ran near where the Green Line’s E branch runs.

It is unclear if the Brookline Railroad Company ever built a line, but in the 1880s Henry Whitney – of Brookline – who owned the West End Railway, purchased other railroad companies and replaced horses with electric power, according to Liss.

An Act to Amend “An Act to Authorize Cities and Towns to Establish and Maintain Public Libraries” – 1859

This act amended an 1851 act that allowed towns to use tax revenue to establish a library, according to Liss.

In 1857 Brookline established its first library in the 1844 Town Hall building on Prospect Street, according to Liss. Both the building and Prospect Street are long gone.

According to “The Public Library of Brookline: A History”, Brookline High School Headmaster J. Emory Hoar, was appointed as the first library director with a salary of $125 per year.

In 1869 the town purchased the land where the main library now stands for $7,000, according to “The Public Library of Brookline: A History.”

An Act to Authorize the Town of Brookline to Take Water from the Charles River – 1872

According to Liss, Brookline did not have its own water supply until the 1870s. A pumping station built at Cow Bay in West Roxbury in 1875, brought water to a town reservoir on Fisher Hill across from a state-owned reservoir which is now Fisher Hill Reservoir Park.

In the 1880s residential development lead to the construction of a pumping station on Newton Street which sent water to a new tank on Singletree Hill, according to Liss. Another point of interest, according to Liss, is that before meters were introduced in 1905, water rates were based on the number of faucets, bathtubs, water closets, garden hoses and animals kept by a household or business.

An Act Relative to the Sale of Ice Cream, Confectionary, Soda Water and Fruit on the Lord’s Day – 1910

This act loosened the Commonwealth Blue Laws – dating back to Puritan times – which prohibited the sale of ice cream, confectionary, soda water and fruit on Sundays. According to the 1910 Town Warrant, sale of these items on Sundays had become so customary the police did not enforce the law.

In 1909 the state passed an act requiring businesses to obtain licenses from their municipalities in order sell the items on Sundays.

According to Liss, Massachusetts Blue Laws have not been fully eliminated, but the state ban on businesses being open on Sundays was removed in 1983.

Statute Relative to Equal Pay for Men and Women Teachers – 1947

As one of 15 towns and some cities in the state, Brookline was a leader in paying women teachers the same as men, according to Liss who referenced a 1944 Globe article. At the time, Brookline paid women teachers a higher maximum salary – at $3,100 per year – than those of any other town in the state.

Isaac Saki Passes At 16

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Brookline.com

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January 14, 2018

A Brookline High School Student died suddenly on December 10. And now friends and community members are rallying to help support his family. A GoFundMe set up to help with funeral and burial expenses surpassed its goal of $12,000 for funeral expenses in less than a day. Within 24 hours more than 193 people had donated more than $13,000. By the end of the weekend the goal had been more than doubled.

Isaac Saki, a Junior at Brookline High School, was just 16, when he passed away this week unexpectedly.

“He will be dearly missed by everyone who was lucky enough to have known him,” reads the GoFundMe post. Isaac leaves behind his father Isaac, mother Lucy, sister Lily, and brother Owen.

Thursday, families and students were made aware that a student had passed away suddenly in a letter home and through an announcement at the high school. The School Department was working on providing resources to students after the news broke, but because of the family’s request for privacy they did not release the name of the student or any details.

“Though his time with us was too brief, Isaac lived courageously and with passion. He faced challenges bravely. He was a loyal son and sibling. A talented artist and good friend. It is important to the Saki family and all who love them that Isaac be given a dignified and honorable goodbye,” wrote Paul Epstien, the founder of the Brookline Teen Center.

But, unfortunately, according to Epstein, the family did not have resources in place for the expense of a funeral and burial. Enter the online fundraiser.

All funds above that amount will go into a fund supporting the post-secondary education of Isaac’s siblings, according to the post on GoFundMe.

As of 6:00 p.m. Friday evening 86 people had donated more than $7,500, some 22 hours into the campaign. An hour later 158 people had donated $11,438. As of Sunday night at 10:00 p.m. more than 450 people had donated $27,976.

Kaitlin Maher To Wed Tyler Martin

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Brookline.com

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January 14, 2018

David and Kathryn Maher of Ritch Drive have announced the engagement of their daughter, Kaitlin, to Tyler Martin, son of Drs. Jean Lee and Raymond Martin of Boston, MA.

Ms. Maher is a 2010 graduate of Ridgefield High School and a 2014 graduate of the Morrissey College of Arts and Sciences at Boston College. She works for the Massachusetts attorney general’s office in Boston.

Mr. Martin is a 2008 graduate of Bishop Feehan High School in Attleboro, MA, and a 2012 graduate of the Morrissey College of Arts and Sciences at Boston College. He is an environmental consultant at RPS in Boston.

The couple plan to marry in August at St. Mary of the Assumption Church in Brookline, Mass. A reception will follow at the Alden Castle, also in Brookline.

The Art Of Remembering Names

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Brookline.com

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January 13, 2018

What is the cost to you of not remembering names? Embarrassment? Missed opportunities? Missed connections? Fear of meeting new people? Lost business?

This method has been taught for over a hundred years to hundreds of thousands of students. It has led to extraordinary feats of memory. MemorizeBest has made it easier than ever to learn and use this method. You will see every person and their name more vividly, and remember their name surprisingly easily.

Specially designed learning exercises are practiced in class and then at home. Practice and you will amaze yourself and others with your memory for names.

Coolidge Corner – Meeting Room
31 Pleasant Street
Brookline, MA 02446

January 28, 2018
2:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Come listen to memory trainer Neil Kutzen and sign up by calling 617-730-2380 or visiting here.

Manhole Explosion In Coolidge Corner Shuts Down Area

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Brookline.com

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January 12, 2018

Representatives from the gas company say the manhole explosion in Coolidge Corner Friday was not gas-related. Police closed the street in both directions and diverted traffic for more than an hour Friday evening after a manhole reportedly exploded because of a suspected gas leak build up on Harvard Avenue near the corner of Thorndike in Coolidge Corner. By 4:00 p.m. the road was open again.

No one was reported injured in the manhole explosion, police said and Fire, police were on scene blocking the road very shortly after the incident.

National Grid was called to assess just how dangerous the scene was, Deputy Superintendent Michael Gropman said. Police said National Grid said there were no dangerous readings in the buildings nearby but the road remained closed as of 3:30 p.m. though police were letting buses through the area, until National Grid got the go-ahead from National Grid supervisors.

State Money Helps Massachusetts Communities Save The Environment

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Brookline.com

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January 12, 2018

When more than 200 communities across the state take small steps to become more energy efficient, the cumulative impact can be significant.

In December, the Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources accepted 25 new cities and towns into the state’s Green Communities program, an initiative that provides grants to municipalities that adopt a series of energy efficiency policies and set a goal of reducing their energy consumption by 20 percent within five years.

“Communities all across the state will use these grant funds for innovative programs to reduce energy usage and invest in renewable energy projects, and the benefits will flow to taxpayers and the environment,” Massachusetts Municipal Association Executive Director Geoff Beckwith said.

The program’s 2015 progress report, the most recent available, found Green Communities had saved enough energy to power and heat 17,100 homes over seven years. The program is projected to result in reductions in greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to taking 37,000 cars off the road for a year.

James P. Fallon Passed

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Brookline.com

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January 12, 2018

James P. Fallon, of S. Yarmouth, formerly of Brookline, passed away on January 7, 2018. He was Chief of the Brookline Fire Dept. (ret.).

He was the beloved husband of 64 years to Lorraine P. (Merrithew) Fallon; loving father of Gail Fallon McDonald and husband Ron of Pacifica, CA, Lori McGlynn and husband Paul of Dennis, and James G. Fallon of Quincy; dear brother of the late Mary C. Corbett, Rita N. Sokoloski, Kathleen P. Cotter, Louise M. Pearson, Thomas F., John J., Joseph P. and Edward M. Fallon; adored grandfather of Elizabeth, Andrea, Jessica, P.J., Patrick and Lindsey; also survived by his three cherished great-grandchildren and many treasured nieces and nephews.

Funeral from the Bell-O’Dea Funeral Home, 376 Washington Street, Brookline on Saturday morning at 9:10 followed by a Funeral Mass in St. Mary of the Assumption Church, Brookline at 10:00 a.m. Relatives and friends are kindly invited. Visiting hours in the funeral home on Friday from 3:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Interment St. Joseph Cemetery.

Late Army Veteran Korean War, former Vice President New England Fire Chiefs Association, Ret. Employee Steamship Authority, Hyannis, late member local 950 Brookline Fire Dept. and Teamster’s Union local 59.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Assoc. of Eastern Mass., 309 Waverly Oaks Road, Waltham, MA. 02452 or alz.org

Peter P. Harper Sr. Passes At 77

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Brookline.com

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January 10, 2018

Peter P. Harper Sr., 77, of Old Orchard Beach, Maine and former longtime resident of Northborough, died Sunday, Jan. 7, 2018 at his home. His 10-year courageous battle with cancer came to a peaceful end, surrounded by his devoted wife of 58 years, Lorraine (Leroux) Harper; his son; Peter P. Harper Jr. of Tampa, Fla.; and his daughter, Lynn Ann Harper-Hausner of Encinitas, Calif.

Peter was born and raised in Marlborough, the son of the late Theodore O. and Lorraine (Benway) Harper. He was the owner and manager of R&T Furniture Co. in Northborough, a family business founded by his father that Peter and Lorraine managed for 47 years.

Peter had a deep faith in the Catholic Church. He was a sports enthusiast and a lifelong fan of the New York Yankees. He was a dear friend to many, and for years could be found on Sundays during football season in the parking lot at Gillette Stadium hosting a popular tailgate.

Peter supported many local charities during his time in Northborough, was generous with his time supporting local sports over the years. He was a founder of Northborough Youth Hockey and a longtime member of the board of Northstar Ice Sports. Despite his long illness, he was still a regular volunteer at his local food pantry in Old Orchard Beach, Maine.

Most of all, Peter loved his family. His perfect day was spent on the beach, surrounded by family and friends, making round after round of his famous Bahama Mama’s.

Peter is also survived by his four adoring grandchildren, Ryan P. Harper of Providence, RI, Cristina M. Harper of Tampa, FL, Ava N. Hausner of Encinitas, CA, and Gabriela M. Harper of Tampa, FL; and his daughter-in-law, Mari Harper of Tampa, FL. He is also survived by his loving sister, Vicky Killeen of Marlborough, eight nieces, and two nephews.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Funeral Mass to be celebrated Thursday, Jan. 11, at 11:00 a.m., in the North American Martyr’s Church, 8 Wyoma Drive, Auburn. Interment will follow in the Worcester County Memorial Park Cemetery in Paxton.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Britton-Wallace Funeral Home, 91 Central Street, Auburn.

In lieu of flowers, gifts may be made to Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in memory of Peter Harper Sr. to support cancer research and patient care: Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, 10 Brookline Place West, 6th Floor, Brookline, MA 02445.

Looking To Hire A Salesforce Implementation Leader

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Brookline.com

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January 10, 2018

Location: Brookline, MA
Salary: US$110K – US$130K per annum + unlimited PTO
Job type: Permanent
Reference: MFI11018RN

We are currently working with a large multinational service-driven maintenance company located in the Brookline area that is looking for a new Salesforce Project Lead. This company works closely with Fortune 500 companies throughout North America and this role is focused on customer service.

This client is looking for a Project Manager with a strong history in Salesforce to come in and lead their Salesforce implementation and integration. You will be responsible for leading the seamless transition of all users and customers onto the platform. You will be tasked with the full cycle of implementations, including requirement gathering and planning, integration, delivery, support and execution. As a valued member of the organization, you will get a seat at the table and get to work directly with C level executives.

Requirements:

strong history and ability of leading implementation initiatives, include onboarding clients and training new users;
ability to coordinate resources, prepare teams for launch, manage project timelines, control project scope and alleviate as many risks as possible;
ability to create and provide solution recommendations based on Salesforce best practices;
perform all administrative duties of within Salesforce, including setting up profiles, create customized objects, workflows, rules validations, and page layouts;
work with sales representatives to make sure they understand the platform and help teach them ways to best influence their sales pipelines;
certified DEV 401, ADM 201 or other Salesforce certifications preferred;
ability to develop strong relationships with clients and internal teams;
at least 3 years of experience with the Salesforce platform, specifically implementations;
7 years of project management experience;
Bachelor’s Degree or higher preferred.

This organization has big time plans for the next several years and are looking for someone to take part in them. Come take the reins of a Salesforce implementation and make the platform your own. If you are looking for an opportunity for great growth potential, strong starting salary, and awesome benefits then this is the role for you.

Resumes could be sent to r.naylor@masonfrank.com and interested parties could call 212-594-1495.

Brookline’s First Blizzard 2018: By The Numbers

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Brookline.com

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January 9, 2018

Now that the the Bombogenesis is over and there is a relative heatwave happening in the area with temperatures finally above freezing and a sun that is actually out, town departments report how Brookline did with the first major snowstorm of the year, the largest since the winter of 2014-2015.

Because of extreme temperatures and high winds, this storm was difficult to fight and required many more additional hours to clean, the DPW commissioner said. For Brookline’s first responders, the more difficult storm meant more calls to respond to.

Brookline Fire officials said they responded to a higher call volume than normal answering to dozens of calls between the time the snow started to fall and Saturday morning.

From 8:00 a.m. on Thursday, January 4 (just an hour after the snow started in town) to 8:00 a.m. Saturday, Jan.6, the Brookline Fire Department answered more than 60 calls for assistance including medical emergencies, utility emergencies, calls for fire and investigations, according to Brookline Fire Chief of Operations Keith Flaherty. And that was in between shoveling out the stations. Usually the department mechanic handles plowing around the stations, but since he was out sick, the department had to call DPW for help.

The Department of Public Works had their hands full, too. The crews were at it before the storm until Monday when snow removal operations were completed in all commercial areas, according to the DPW.

“Basically we removed the portions of the snow banks along the curb line to provide for full parking. Areas included Brookline Village, Washington Square, Coolidge Corner, St. Mary’s St area and Harvard St full length,” said DPW Commissioner Andrew Pappastergion. This means his crews don’t work the late shift any more, and normal day shift operations are continuing this week in parking lots and on street reservations.

Members of the fire department started shoveling at 8:00 a.m. on Friday, and the effort to clear hydrants is still ongoing as we speak, according to Flaherity.

“The Fire Department and the D.P.W. are continuously working to clear hydrants and we encourage all residents, management companies, and merchants to help us to help you by clearing hydrants in close proximity to their homes and businesses,” he said.

The fire department also encourages people to clear the snow from the fire department connections for sprinklers and standpipes and the exhaust pipes from heating systems so as not to have carbon monoxide emergencies.

Extra firefighters were put on duty through the duration of the storm, according to the fire department.

In the past month Brookline fire fighters responded to seven building fires around town, including a natural gas fire in a mechanical room at Pine Manor College on Dec. 6, A fire that spread from a fireplace on Dec. 23 on Abbotsford Road in a home. An overheated boiler that lit a building on fire at 1025 Beacon Street on Dec. 28; a two-alarm fire in the penthouse mechanical room of a Village Way high rise creating heavy smoke condition throughout building with extensive evacuations. There were also two fires on New Year’s Eve: an overheated electrical box in a ceiling of a Centre Street home that ignited and a two alarm fire on Babcock that was caused by thawing pipes. On January 5 there was the fire in a basement on Beacon Street of a commercial basement under renovation.

Brookline storm facts by the numbers:

How much snow landed in Brookline? Recorded 16.1 inches of total snowfall.

How many snow days did students get? 2.

How many snow days do students have left this year? 3 built into the calendar.

How much salt/ de-icer was put out? 565 tons of road salt and 2,000 gallons of salt brine were used.

How does that compare to the February 2015 storm? The DPW went through 800 tons of salt or sand when two feet of snow landed in Brookline between Thursday, Feb., 9 and Monday, Feb. 13. 2015.

How many trucks were out plowing Thursday? 108 pieces of equipment were used during the storm.

How many DPW staff members were out working? 147 staff.

How much plowing are we talking? Brookline has about 100 miles of public road. The DPW estimates it plows about 253 miles when factoring in multiple lanes on roadways.

How many fire hydrants in town had to be cleared? 1,553.

How may calls did the fire respond to? 60+.

How many fire stations in town? 5.

And speaking of clearing the roadway. The town has a bylaw that requires both businesses and homeowners to make sure the sidewalk in front of their homes and business are clear for pedestrians.

Homeowners have 30 hours following a storm to clear the sidewalk in front of their home 36 inches wide, according to the bylaw. Apartment buildings and multi-family homes as well as businesses have three hours following the storm to do the same or risk getting a ticket. And tickets can range between $100 and $250.

School Capital Subcommittee Meeting

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Brookline.com

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January 9, 2018

The School Capital Improvements Subcommittee will be meeting on Tuesday, January 9, 2018 from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. in the 5th Floor Conference Room, Town Hall.

The agenda will include:

Approval of Minutes of the following Capital Improvements Subcommittee Meetings: October 10, 2017; November 8, 2017; and December 12, 2017;
Update on 9th School Alternative Site Study (Joe Connelly);
Update on FY 2019 Capital Improvements Program including Temperature Control (Charlie Simmons);
Update on Classroom Section Projections as presented with Enrollment Report (Matt Gillis);
Debrief on December 18, 2017 Transportation Board Meeting (Mary Ellen Dunn);
New and old business.

Address:

333 Washington Street, 5th Floor
Brookline, MA 02445

Contact:

Tel.: 617-730-2430
E–mail: robin_coyne@psbma.org

Brookline Bancorp, Inc. (BRKL) Receives Hold Rating From Piper Jaffray Companies

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Brookline.com

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January 9, 2018

Brookline Bancorp, Inc. (NASDAQ:BRKL)‘s stock had its “hold” rating reiterated by equities researchers at Piper Jaffray Companies in a research report issued on Tuesday. They presently have a $16.50 price target on the bank’s stock. Piper Jaffray Companies’ target price would suggest a potential upside of 3.13% from the company’s current price.

Several other equities research analysts have also issued reports on the stock. BidaskClub lowered shares of Brookline Bancorp, Inc. from a “strong-buy” rating to a “buy” rating in a research note on Thursday, December 7th. Sandler O’Neill lowered shares of Brookline Bancorp, Inc. from a “buy” rating to a “hold” rating in a research note on Thursday, October 19th. Three research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and two have assigned a buy rating to the company. Brookline Bancorp, Inc. presently has a consensus rating of “Hold” and a consensus price target of $16.33.

Shares of Brookline Bancorp, Inc. (NASDAQ:BRKL) opened at $16.00 on Tuesday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.21, a quick ratio of 1.16 and a current ratio of 1.16. Brookline Bancorp, Inc. has a one year low of $13.60 and a one year high of $17.45. The stock has a market cap of $1,222.60, a P/E ratio of 20.51 and a beta of 0.97.

Brookline Bancorp, Inc. (NASDAQ:BRKL) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, October 18th. The bank reported $0.20 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, hitting the Thomson Reuters’ consensus estimate of $0.20. Brookline Bancorp, Inc. had a net margin of 19.82% and a return on equity of 7.52%. The company had revenue of $62.82 million during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $60.37 million. During the same quarter last year, the business posted $0.19 EPS. research analysts expect that Brookline Bancorp, Inc. will post 0.8 earnings per share for the current year.

In related news, Director David C. Chapin sold 5,000 shares of Brookline Bancorp, Inc. stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, November 10th. The shares were sold at an average price of $14.70, for a total value of $73,500.00. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through this link. Also, Director Charles H. Peck sold 16,000 shares of Brookline Bancorp, Inc. stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, November 29th. The shares were sold at an average price of $16.38, for a total transaction of $262,080.00. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. In the last 90 days, insiders have sold 142,255 shares of company stock valued at $2,138,396. 2.85% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders.

A number of institutional investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the stock. PNC Financial Services Group, Inc. grew its stake in Brookline Bancorp, Inc. by 1.9% in the 2nd quarter. PNC Financial Services Group, Inc. now owns 23,832 shares of the bank’s stock valued at $346,000 after buying an additional 451 shares in the last quarter. Nationwide Fund Advisors grew its stake in Brookline Bancorp, Inc. by 0.8% in the 2nd quarter. Nationwide Fund Advisors now owns 116,690 shares of the bank’s stock valued at $1,704,000 after buying an additional 875 shares in the last quarter. Victory Capital Management, Inc. grew its stake in Brookline Bancorp, Inc. by 17.6% in the 2nd quarter. Victory Capital Management, Inc. now owns 12,137 shares of the bank’s stock valued at $177,000 after buying an additional 1,819 shares in the last quarter. California Public Employees Retirement System grew its stake in Brookline Bancorp, Inc. by 1.2% in the 3rd quarter. California Public Employees Retirement System now owns 354,797 shares of the bank’s stock valued at $5,499,000 after buying an additional 4,111 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Pinebridge Investments L.P. grew its stake in Brookline Bancorp, Inc. by 9.6% in the 2nd quarter. Pinebridge Investments L.P. now owns 48,020 shares of the bank’s stock valued at $701,000 after buying an additional 4,187 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 77.63% of the company’s stock.

Brookline Bancorp, Inc. Company Profile

Brookline Bancorp, Inc. operates as a multi-bank holding company for Brookline Bank and its subsidiaries; Bank Rhode Island (BankRI) and its subsidiaries; First Ipswich Bank (First Ipswich) and its subsidiaries, and Brookline Securities Corp. As a commercially focused financial institution with 50 full-service banking offices throughout greater Boston, the north shore of Massachusetts and Rhode Island, the Company, through Brookline Bank, BankRI and First Ipswich (individually and collectively the Banks), offered a range of commercial, business and retail banking services, including cash management products, online banking services, consumer and residential loans and investment services throughout central New England, as of December 31, 2016.

Edward “Ned” Michael Merrick Jr. Passes At 72

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Brookline.com

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January 9, 2018

Former Plainville Police Chief Edward “Ned” Michael Merrick Jr., 72, peacefully passed away on Friday, Jan. 5, 2018 at his home in Plainville after a lengthy illness. He was the beloved husband of Donna Marie (Leone) Merrick, with whom this year he would have celebrated his 30th wedding anniversary.

Born on June 15, 1945 in Milton, MA, he was the son of the late Edward Michael Merrick Sr., M.D., and the late Mary Aileen (Mahoney) Merrick.

Chief Merrick was raised in Milton and Brookline, MA, and was a graduate of Brookline High School, Class of 1964. He proudly and honorably served our country in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War and later served in the Massachusetts National Guard. He received his bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Northeastern University in 1978 and his master’s degree in criminal justice from Anna Maria College in 1990.

He was deeply involved in advanced training for police officers. Chief Merrick was a member of the Massachusetts Criminal Justice Training Council from 1989 until 1993, and a certified instructor from 1987 through his retirement.

He also served as adjunct faculty at Anna Maria College and Western New England College. Chief Merrick was for many years a faithful member and long served on the Parish Pastoral Council of St. Martha Catholic Church in Plainville.

Well known for his work supporting his fellow police officers, he was the first person to have served as president of both the 18,000-member Massachusetts Police Association (MPA) and the Massachusetts Chiefs of Police Association.

Chief Merrick had the honor of serving as the chief of police in Plainville from 1995 until 2009. He previously served as a police officer in Brookline for 24 years, during which time he also worked part-time as legislative director for the MPA in the 1980s and 1990s, and was elected president of the MPA in 1998.

A familiar figure in State House hearings and conference rooms, he was highly regarded by governors of both parties and legislative leaders as knowledgeable, reasonable, helpful and trustworthy on police issues. He participated in many legislative battles, including the MPA’s successful support of the consolidation of the State, Metropolitan District Commission, Registry of Motor Vehicles and Capitol Police departments. In 1998, on the same day that the Boston Police Patrolmen’s Union endorsed George H.W. Bush for president, Chief Merrick led a rally of Massachusetts police officers on the Statehouse steps in support of Bush’s opponent, Gov. Michael Dukakis.

From 1981 until 1991, he was a member of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Joint Labor-Management Committee for Police & Fire, which facilitated the resolution of disputes between municipalities and their first responders. In 1990, Gov. Dukakis appointed him as a member of the State-Wide Emergency Telecommunications Board, which implemented enhanced statewide 911 service.

During his distinguished service as chief in Plainville, he brought his government relations experience to the Massachusetts Chiefs of Police Association and was elected its president in 2003. From 1997 until his death, Chief Merrick was also a member of the International Association of Chiefs of Police Legislative Committee.

During 10 years of his 15-year tenure, Chief Merrick also held the position of Plainville Director of Public Safety, managing the town’s fire, ambulance, and communications operations, as well as the police department.

Between 2002 and 2008, he was the chief of Metro-STAR, a 100 person regional police response team that provided SWAT, munitions, K-9 operations, and crisis negotiation for local police departments. Under his command, the unit provided police security at major events, including the 2004 Democratic National Convention, World Series games, Patriots play-off games and victory parades for the Patriots and Red Sox teams.

Following his retirement from the Plainville Police Department, Chief Merrick continued his work on behalf of police officers as an officer, board member and director of legislative affairs for the Massachusetts Fraternal Order of Police.

From 2008 until 2016, he served as the executive director of the Law Enforcement Memorial Foundation, which raises money to privately maintain a Police Memorial at the State House, and conducts an annual memorial service for Massachusetts law enforcement officers who die in the line of duty.

Chief Merrick was long active in fraternal and charitable organizations. He was a member of the Lions Club since 1994, and was elected district governor in 2009, and a director of the district Eyemobile program. In 2016, after he was diagnosed with his final illness, he undertook the presidency of the Massachusetts Lions Eye Research Fund. During his term in office, he raised over $1 million dollars, a goal reached only three times in the foundation’s 73- year history.

A member of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks since 1981, he was named district deputy in 1991. Chief Merrick was particularly devoted to Cops for Kids with Cancer, serving on its board from 2010 until his death.

In addition to his wife Donna, Chief Merrick leaves his loving children: Lynne Merrick Nagle; Edward M. Merrick III and his wife Susan Merrick and Stephen Merrick and his wife Christina Merrick, all of Marshfield. He was the proud and adoring grandfather of Jeffrey Nagle, Edward Michael Merrick IV, Connor Merrick, Joseph Merrick, Stephen Merrick and Isabella Merrick, all of Marshfield. Chief Merrick was the brother of: Lee Ellicott of Porter, IN; Viki Merrick of Woods Hole, MA; Brian R. Merrick and his wife Rebecca Merrick of West Barnstable, MA; John H. Merrick and his wife Joanne of Manchester, NH and Christopher Merrick and his wife Barbara Merrick of Kingston, MA. He was predeceased by his twin brother, the late Carl G. Merrick and his late siblings, Michael Merrick, James Merrick and Ann Klein Dale. He is survived by 24 nephews and nieces; his brother-in-law, Kevin S. Leone of North Attleboro and his fiancée Kimberly Macallister of Centerville, MA, his extended family, many dear friends, and his faithful companions, “Ollie” and “Tessa.”

Chief Merrick leaves behind all of the honorable men and women of the police departments with whom he had the distinct privilege of serving.

Members of the police departments will privately pay their final respects to Chief Merrick on Sunday, Jan. 14 from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m., in the “Memorial Chapel” of the Dyer-Lake Funeral Home — the national historic Colonel Obed Robinson Home, 161 Commonwealth Avenue, Village of Attleboro Falls, North Attleboro, MA, followed by a Necrology service offered by the Plainville Lions Club from 2 to 2:15 p.m., and by a family prayer from 2:15 to 2:30 p.m.

The doors to the funeral home will be open to the general public on Sunday, Jan. 14, 2018, from 2:30 to 6:30 p.m., so that family and friends may gather to honor and remember Chief Merrick for a visitation with full police and veteran’s honors in the “Memorial Chapel” of the Dyer-Lake Funeral Home, 161 Commonwealth Ave., Village of Attleboro Falls, North Attleboro, MA.

Relatives and friends are cordially invited to attend a Mass of Christian burial on Monday, Jan. 15, 2018, at 10:30 a.m., at St. Martha Catholic Church, 227 South Street, Route 1A, Plainville, MA.

A children’s room is available during the visitation.

Burial services will immediately follow in St. Joseph Cemetery, West Roxbury, MA.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Chief Merrick to either Cops for Kids with Cancer, Inc., Attn: Deputy Chief Rafferty, c/o Canton Police Department, 1492 Washington Street, Canton, MA 02021; Massachusetts Lions Eye Research Fund Inc. c/o PDG Dr. James Roth, 43 Stewart Terrace, Belmont, MA 02478, or to the Plainville Lions Club, P.O. Box 1804, Plainville, MA 02762.

For additional information or to send the family a written expression of sympathy, please visit the online guest book here.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Dyer-Lake Funeral Home, 161 Commonwealth Avenue, Village of Attleboro Falls, North Attleboro, 508-695-0200.

Brookline Arts Center To Hold Snowflake Festival

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Brookline.com

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January 9, 2018

The Brookline Arts Center will hold its annual Snowflake Festival from 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. Jan. 20 at 86 Monmouth Street, Brookline.

The Snowflake Festival is a free open house event featuring art activities for all ages. There will be hot chocolate, art demonstrations and the reception for Brookline Arts Center’s 2018 Student Exhibition.

Attendees can explore the BAC studio spaces and try out projects in mixed media, comic creation, jewelry making, 3-D sculpture and more. They can watch a live pottery demo, listen to music by Hugh Hanley and warm up with a cup of hot cocoa during this winter-inspired afternoon.

This year’s Snowflake Festival will also serve as the reception for BAC’s annual Student Exhibition that will be on view in the gallery. The Student Exhibition highlights a wide range of artwork created in classes over the past year. Children, teens and adults display their creations in ceramics, painting, drawing, jewelry and metalsmithing, mixed media, and other 2-D and 3-D mediums. An online gallery of student work is currently on display.

For more information, please visit here.

Brookline Resident To Perform With Intergenerational Chorus

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Brookline.com

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January 9, 2018

Martha Leader, of Brookline, will accompany the Greater Boston Intergenerational Chorus for its winter concerts at 7:00 p.m. Jan. 16 and 4:00 p.m. Jan. 20, at First Parish of Watertown, 35 Church Street, Watertown.

The chorus, directed by Joanne Hammil, features 83 singers from 29 area towns. The concerts will include an array of music in styles, ranging from multicultural, contemporary folk, classical, pop, freedom songs and rock n roll, in multi-part harmonies.

Cost: $10 suggested donation at the door. For more information or membership, please e-mail: GBICmembership@gmail.com or joanne@joannehammil.com or visit here.

Select Board, January 9, 2018, Executive Session 6:00 p.m., Public Session 7:00 p.m.

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Brookline.com

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January 9, 2018

SELECT BOARD
CALENDAR
FOR
TUESDAY, JANUARY 9, 2018

SELECT BOARD’S HEARING ROOM

Neil Wishinsky – Chair
Benjamin J. Franco
Nancy S. Heller
Bernard W. Greene
Heather A. Hamilton
Melvin A. Kleckner – Town Administrator

01. OPEN SESSION

6:00 p.m.

Question of whether the Select Board shall enter into Executive Session for the purposes described in Agenda items 2 and 3 below.

02. PROPOSED EXECUTIVE SESSION

EXECUTIVE SESSION MINUTES

For the purpose of approving the following Executive Session minutes, pursuant to M.G.L. c. 30A, §21(a), Purpose (7):

Executive Session meeting minutes of January 2, 2018.

03. PROPOSED EXECUTIVE SESSION

PERSONNEL

For the purpose of discussing the reputation, character, physical condition or mental health, rather than professional competence, of an individual, or to discuss the discipline or dismissal of, or complaints or charges brought against, a public officer, employee, staff member or individual.

04. ANNOUNCEMENTS/UPDATES

7:00 p.m.

Select Board to announce recent and/or upcoming Events of Community Interest.

05. PUBLIC COMMENT

Public Comment period for citizens who requested to speak to the Board regarding Town issues not on the Calendar.

Up to fifteen minutes for public comment on matters not appearing on this Calendar shall be scheduled each meeting. Persons wishing to speak may sign up in advance beginning on the Friday preceding the meeting or may sign up in person at the meeting. Speakers will be taken up in the order they sign up. Advance registration is available by calling the Select Board’s office at 617-730-2211 or by e-mail at sorsini@brooklinema.gov. The full Policy on Public Comment is available here.

06. MISCELLANEOUS

Approval of miscellaneous items, licenses, vouchers, and contracts.

A. Question of approving the minutes of January 2, 2018.

B. Question of accepting a donation in the amount of $400.00 from the Korean Church of Boston for the Fire Department.

C. Question of accepting a donation in the amount of $50.00 from Andrea Bullock for the Fire Department.

07. CALENDAR

Review and potential vote on Calendar Items

08. FIRE DEPARTMENT – PERSONNEL

Question of authorizing the upgrade of a Lieutenant position in the Training Division to Captain and to promote Fire Lieutenant David Randolph to Fire Captain.

A. Update on the Fire Department’s recruitment activities.

09. BAA MARATHON SPECIAL PERMIT

Stuart Wall of the BAA will appear to request a Special Use Permit for the running of the 2018 Boston Marathon scheduled for April 16, 2018.

10. SELECT BOARD’S COMMITTEE ON SENIOR TAX POLICY

Members of the Select Board’s Committee on Senior Tax Policy will appear to provide the final report of the committee.

11. BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS – INTERVIEWS

The following candidates for appointment/reappointment to Boards and Commissions will appear for interview:

Housing Advisory Board
Rita McNally (reappointment)

12. BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS – APPOINTMENTS

Question of making appointments/reappointments to the following Boards and Commissions:

Conservation Commission
Housing Advisory Board

13. FY2019 BUDGET OBJECTIVES

Review of the Select Board’s FY2019 Budget Objectives.

Address:

Town Hall Selectmen’s Hearing Room
333 Washington Street, 5th Floor
Brookline, MA 02445

Contact:

Tel.: 617-730-2430
E–mail: robin_coyne@psbma.org

Happenings Around Brookline

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Brookline.com

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January 8, 2018

Thursday, Jan. 11

“Movement to Music and Imagination”: 11:00 a.m., Wingate Residences at Boylston Place, 615 Heath Street, Brookline. Free; space limited. For more information or to RSVP, please call 617-244-6400. A presentation featuring Arthur Sullivan.

Piano concert with Doug Robinson: 3:30 p.m., Wingate Residences at Boylston Place, 615 Heath Street, Brookline. The event is free and the space is limited. For more information or to RSVP, please call 617-244-6400. Robinson has been playing piano throughout New England for over 35 years. Robinson studied at the Berklee College of Music and has served as the organist for the Hartford Whalers and the musical director for the TV show “The Sports Fan.”

Friday, Jan. 12

Sen. Creem office hours: 8:30 – 10:00 a.m., Brookline Town Hall, Room 111, 333 Washington Street, Brookline. State Sen. Cynthia Stone Creem’s constituent services team will be available to meet with individuals. No appointment necessary.

American history lecture: 1:30 p.m., Wingate Residences at Boylston Place, 615 Heath St., Brookline. Free; space limited. For more information or to RSVP, please call 617-244-6400. Presented by Gary Hylander, professor of history at Framingham State University.

Monday, Jan. 15

ArtVentures: “Heroes and Legends:” 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., Brookline Arts Center, 86 Monmouth Street, Brookline. Cost: $75. To register, please visit here. A day of art making and inspiration from heroes, both real and fantastical, as they come to life through drawing, sculpture and puppets in this vacation day intensive. For ages 5-7. Extended day options available. 5-year-olds must be enrolled in kindergarten.

Cartooning and Comics Intensive: 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., Brookline Arts Center, 86 Monmouth Street, Brookline. Cost: $75. To register, please visit here. Students will experiment with different illustration techniques, creating their own story from the ground up. They will learn how to design a unique cast of characters and develop personalities and backstories for their own comic creation. For ages 8-12. Extended day options available.

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. celebration: 3:00 p.m., Coolidge Corner Theatre, 290 Harvard Street, Brookline. The event is free. For tickets, please visit here. For more information, please e-mail Caitlin Haynes at chaynes@brooklinema.gov or call 617-730-2345. The theme for this year’s event is “The Radical King — The Fierce Urgency of Now.” Dr. Chad Williams, associate professor and chair of the Department of African and Afro-American Studies at Brandeis University, is the keynote speaker. The program will also feature the poet/performer Regie Gibson, Brookline Poet Laureate Zvi Sesling and, from Brookline High School, slam poet Carolyn Parker-Fairbain and the acapella group Testostatones.

Wednesday, Jan. 17

Hiring Do’s and Don’ts: 9:00 – 10:30 a.m. Jan. 17 and Jan. 31, The Village Works, 202 Washington Street, Brookline. This interactive and approachable workshop will teach attendees to identify and avoid some of the most common legal hiring mistakes that can torpedo their efforts to grow a business. The two-part series is designed to test legal IQ, raise awareness and improve skills at issue spotting.

Thursday, Jan. 18

“Antarctica: Travels at the End of the World”: 1:30 p.m., Wingate Residences at Boylston Place, 615 Heath Street, Brookline. Free; space limited. For more information or to RSVP, please call 617-244-6400. Presnted by photojournalist Barry Pell.

Dance program with Hilary MacDonald: 2:30 – 3:30 p.m., Wingate at Chestnut Hill, 615 Heath Street, Brookline. Free; space limited. For more information or to RSVP, please call 617-243-9990. MacDonald is a hip hop dance instructor who performs a wide range of dance styles.

Friday, Jan. 19

Musician Mark Tavenner to perform: 2:30 – 3:30 p.m., Wingate at Chestnut Hill, 615 Heath Street, Brookline. Free; space limited. For more information or to RSVP, please call 617-243-9990. Tavenner engages audiences with his interactive performance style. He frequently performs classic, sing-alongs and standards.

Saturday, Jan. 20

Snowflake Festival: 1:00 – 3:00 p.m., Brookline Arts Center, 86 Monmouth Street, Brookline. Free. For more information, please visit here. Attendees can stroll through the studio spaces and try out projects in mixed media, comic creation, jewelry making, 3-D sculpture and more. Also features hot cocoa, a live pottery demo and music by Hugh Hanley. The festival will also serve as the reception for the annual Student Exhibition that will be on view in the gallery.

Review of “The Seven Year Itch”: 1:30 p.m., Wingate Residences at Boylston Place, 615 Heath Street, Brookline. Free; space limited. For more information or to RSVP, please call 617-244-6400. Film critic Dan Kimmel will review of the 1955 American romantic comedy starring Tom Ewell, Evelyn Keyes and Marilyn Monroe.

Sunday, Jan. 21

Opera at the Cinema: “Lohengrin”: 10:00 a.m., Coolidge Corner Theatre, 209 Harvard Street, Brookline. Cost: $20 – $23. For more information, please e-mail wesley@coolidge.org or visit here. Presented by Semperoper Dresden. Starring in their premiere Wagnerian roles, Anna Netrebko and Piotr Beczała, alongside Staatskapelle Dresden and led by Christian Thielemann.

K.I.D.S. Camp Fair: Noon to 2:00 p.m., Tappan Street Gym, 66 Tappan Street, Brookline. For more information, please e-mail kidsfair@stepstosuccessbrookline.com or visit here. Steps to Success hosts it annual Kids Involved During Summer Fair to showcase the best camps in New England and celebrate summer. Families will be able to sign up and register for summer camps before space runs out.

Wednesday, Jan. 24

Professor Thomas Kelly to host discussion: 11:00 a.m., Wingate Residences at Boylston Place, 615 Heath Street, Brookline. Free; space limited. For more information or to RSVP, please call 617-244-6400. A discussion on current world issues and controversies. Kelly is a retired professor from the Wentworth Institute of Technology.

Thursday, Jan. 25

Musician Rick Olsen to perform: 3:30 p.m., Wingate Residences at Boylston Place, 615 Heath Street, Brookline. Free; space limited. For more information or to RSVP, please call 617-244-6400. Olsen is known as “The Man of a 1,000 Songs” for his extensive repertoire that includes classic and contemporary hits.

ONGOING

Watercolor exhibition: Jan. 3 through Feb. 28, Gallery 93, 93 Winchester Street, Brookline. Watercolor paintings by Brookline artist Shirley Selhub.

Brookline Winter Farmers Market: 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Sundays, Nov. 19 through March 25, The Coolidge Corner Arcade, 318 Harvard Street, Brookline. For more information, please visit here. No market December 31.

Fall Learn-To-Skate classes: 4:00 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays, and 1:00 p.m. Sundays, Brookline/Cleveland Circle Reilly Memorial Rink, 355 Chestnut Hill Avenue; 10:45 a.m. Saturdays and Sundays, starting December 2, Jack Kirrane Rink at Larz Anderson Park, 5 Newton Street, Brookline. For children, ages 4 ½ to 18. Participants can use figure, recreational or hockey skates. Beginner, intermediate and advanced classes available. For more information or to register: Bay State Skating School, 781-890-8480. For more information, please visit here.

Zen meditation and talk: 6:00 – 7:00 p.m. Thursdays, Eishoji Zen Center, 1318 Beacon Street, Brookline. Free; space limited. To RSVP, please call Jason at 508-360-2323.

Al-Anon Family Group meeting: 7:00 – 8:40 p.m. Tuesdays, United Parish – Brookline, Choir Room, 210 Harvard Street, Brookline. For families and friends of problem drinkers. Anonymous, confidential and free. Open to newcomers.

Caffe’ Italiano — Free Italian Conversations: 12:30 p.m. Wednesday and noon Fridays, Coolidge Corner Library, meeting room, 31 Pleasant Street, Brookline. Supported by the Publish Library of Brookline and the Italian Consulate in Boston. A free and friendly Italian conversation, leaded by an Italian teacher. Participants practice and improve their Italian regardless of proficiency. No registration require; drop-in. For more information, please visit here.

Game Day for Seniors at Putterham Library: 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. Thursdays, Putterham Branch Library Community Room, 959 West Roxbury Parkway, Brookline. MahJongg, chess, Scrabble, dominoes, bring your own game or request. Handicapped accessible; wheelchair available. For more information or to request a game, please call Helen at 617-942-7547.

Mindfulness Practice and Meditation: 7:00 – 8:40 p.m. Tuesdays, United Parish of Brookline, 210 Harvard Street, Brookline. Attendees sit and walk mindfully together, read a text and share what comes up for us in the reading. MPCGB links the 17 ongoing meditation groups in the greater Boston area that practice in the tradition of Thich Nhat Hanh, to build relationships and deepen the practice of mindfulness. Free. For more information, please call 617-738-5917 or e-mail Sangha.Matters@gmail.com.

Learn to Meditate: 12:30 – 1:30 p.m. Sundays, Shambhala Meditation Center of Boston, 646 Brookline Avenue, Brookline. Taught by qualified instructors, this basic meditation class is for beginners, as well as anyone who would like to refresh their understanding of the technique. Drop-in class; no registration required. Participants are welcome to come as often as you like, but the class is designed as a one-time introduction with the same content each week. Suggested donation: $5 – $10. For more information, please call 617-734-1498 or visit here.

Overeaters Anonymous: 9:45 – 11:00 a.m. every Saturday, Brighton Marine Health Center, Hawes Building, third floor, 77 Warren Street, Brighton. Attendees find physical, emotional and spiritual recovery. For more information, please call Deanna at 617-731-8150.

William McGourty Passes At 73

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Brookline.com

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January 8, 2018

William McGourty passed away at Rose Monahan Hospice in Worcester Thursday, January 4, 2018, after a valiant struggle with Parkinson’s disease. He was 73 years old.

He leaves behind his devoted wife of 45 years, Patrice (Hurley) McGourty; his loving daughter, Cara McGourty of New York City, NY; two brothers, John McGourty and his wife Cindy of Naples, FL and Frank McGourty of Asheville, NC; two dear cousins, Maura Fitzgerald of Naples, FL and Ireland and Rosemary Fullerton of Norwood; and nieces and nephews.

Born in Boston and raised in Brookline, MA he was the son of Patrick and Mary (Hehir) McGourty, both of Ireland. Bill lived in Northborough for the past 39 years and served on the town’s Industrial Finance Authority. He graduated from Brookline High School, class of 1962, then joined the U.S. Army and later served in the U.S. Army Reserves. He earned a B.S. degree in Business Administration from Northeastern University in 1970.

His professional career was managing operations for several manufacturing companies and he also owned and operated his own business for many years.

Bill enjoyed walking, exercising, and reading. He was an avid Patriots and Red Sox fan.

Bill’s great sense of humor will be fondly remembered. Above all else, Bill was a kind and loving person, as well as a true gentleman.

Calling hours will be held Wednesday, January 10, from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m., in Hays Funeral Home, 56 Main Street, Northborough. His funeral will take place Thursday, January 11, at 10:30 a.m., in the First Parish Church Unitarian, 40 Church Street, Northborough, MA 01532. Burial will be private.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Bill’s memory to the Michael J. Fox Foundation.

To share a memory or to leave an online condolence, visit here.

Brookline’s Tommy Vitolo Running For State Representative

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Brookline.com

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January 8, 2018

After years spent advocating for articles at Town Meeting and serving on town committees, Tommy Vitolo has set his sights on Beacon Hill.

Following 18 years in the House, state Rep. Frank Smizik, D-Brookline, will not seek re-election when his term ends in January 2019.

On Dec. 26, Vitolo announced his candidacy for Smizik’s seat.

“I’ve been Frank’s treasurer for a number of years and I’ve gotten to know him and learn about the position a little bit,” said Vitolo. “And learn about the importance of a strong voice for Brookline and for progressive views.”

Advocating for progressive bills that address issues of equality and civil rights will be the cornerstone of Vitolo’s campaign. He plans to pick up Smizik’s legacy as a champion for the environment, education and housing, and carry it forward.

“I’m passionate about these issues, expanding opportunity, helping folks and being effective about pushing things forward at the state level,” said Vitolo.

Having grown up in a middle class family in Connecticut, Vitolo’s passion for social justice stems from personal experience. When he was in the seventh grade, his family lost their home to bankruptcy.

“I very much know the real challenges families face,” he said.

Outside of his job working on energy, economic, and environmental topics for a research and consulting firm, Vitolo’s work on Brookline issues has ranged from tobacco control and safe schools, to clean energy and transportation.

He points to his years serving in Brookline government, serving on committees and as a Precinct 6 Town Meeting member, as laying a groundwork of necessary experience.

A Brookline resident of 15 years, Vitolo’s work in town has focused on what he described as quality of life issues, like bringing the Complete Streets initiative to town. A state initiative, Complete Streets improves accessibility and safety of town streets and sidewalks for all modes of transportation.

It is a focus on issues like transportation that are essential for Brookline, Vitolo said.

“Housing, transportation and public education are key issues facing Brookline where the state is an important partner in finding solutions that are effective and fair,” he said.

Former Brookline School Committee Member To Run For State Representative

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Brookline.com

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January 8, 2018

Since 1974, when the Norfolk 15th District Seat was created in the State House of Representatives, no woman has filled the seat. Now that State Rep Frank Smizik has announced his decision not to run in the next election, Rebecca Stone, former Brookline School Committee member, wants to change that.

After she heard the news that Smizik would not seek another term, Stone said she focused on celebrating his years of dedicated service and achievements. But she said recently she could not help but notice the State House is 75 percent men. “It’s time for a woman to fill that seat,” she said.

Stone said being a professional woman with her own “Me Too” moments was an important element of her candidacy. But it was the current political and social climate, together with the recent experience of organizing care for her ailing father so he could spend the last year of his life at home informed and inspired her decision to run.

“Both Brookline and the Commonwealth face major challenges, especially today when Congress and the White House are enacting policies that are at odds with our values and threaten our most vulnerable residents,” she said in a statement.

Stone said there are a number of things she plans to focus on once elected, including; “amplifying civic voice, advancing human rights, protecting the reproductive rights and health of women, and building stronger services and supports for children and families.”

Stone who spent nearly a dozen years on the School Committee, serving as vice-chair and then chair from 2009-2012, points to what she called her pivotal role in a number of significant moments for Brookline and the Schools.

“In my first year on the Committee, I was on the bargaining team that negotiated significantly more time in Brookline’s too-short school day and greatly increased educator salaries, paving the way for the establishment of K-12 world language education which is now a basic part of a Brookline education,” Stone said in her announcement. She pointed out that she helped lead the effort for the 2008 Override that paid for the extended school day, along with raises for teachers and staff, and funded the implementation of a core curriculum in World Language starting in Kindergarten.

With Head of the Select Board Neil Wishinsky, Stone also led the 2015 “Yes for Brookline” override campaign that secured funding to hire more teachers and staff to meet 40 percent growth in school enrollments.

“I have never met a more tenacious advocate or a better collaborator than Rebecca,” said Wishinsky (who is on Stone’s campaign committee) in a statement. “She has shown her commitment to Brookline time and again — four terms on the School Committee, leadership of overrides, and great integrity when facing the occasional slings and arrows of public service. I look forward to working with her as Brookline’s representative.”

Stone’s campaign will be Co-Chaired by Harry Bohrs (former Chair of the Advisory Committee) and Casey Hatchett (a 19-year veteran of the Brookline Police Department, TMM pct 12, and co-Chair of the Brookline Commission on Women).

Stone has lived with her family near the Lawrence School in North Brookline since 1999. She and her husband, Stephen Walt, have two children who graduated from the Lawrence School and Brookline High School. She has been a consultant to non-profits and philanthropy for more than a decade, most recently developing special programs in the area of family strengthening for the William J. and Dorothy K. O’Neill
Foundation.

Stone’s announcement January 8, comes less than a week after former Selectwoman Jesse Mermell, who many speculated might consider running for Smizik’s seat, announced that she would be sticking to her current position as President of The Alliance for Business Leadership, where she works on social responsibility and economic growth, ranging from paid family and medical leave to raising the minimum wage, and from investing in transportation to advancing clean energy solutions.

“There may well be another campaign in my future, but this isn’t the right race at the right time,” she said in an emailed statement.

Mid Century Estate With Pop Up Vintage Boutique Sale

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Brookline.com

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January 8, 2018

January 13, Saturday 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
January 14, Sunday 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
January 15, Monday 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

This is a special opportunity to buy from a charming small mid century estate and well established rightsizing collectors.

Extensive collection of classical music, LPs and CDs with well maintained electronics. Fabulous lighting with good looking mid century tables, desks, wall unit and bookcases. Singer sewing machines and notions. Manual Nikon camera with lens and bag. Nikon digital camera. Lovely crystal glassware, linens and much more. Select vintage clothing and accessories – 1940’s through the 1980’s.

No nonsense please.

Cash only.

The address for this sale is:

31 Heath Street
Brookline, MA 02445

Brookline Bancorp, Inc. (BRKL) Holdings Raised By Wells Fargo & Company MN

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Brookline.com

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January 6, 2018

Wells Fargo & Company MN raised its stake in shares of Brookline Bancorp, Inc. (NASDAQ:BRKL) by 4.4% in the third quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The fund owned 293,704 shares of the bank’s stock after acquiring an additional 12,409 shares during the period. Wells Fargo & Company MN owned approximately 0.38% of Brookline Bancorp, Inc. worth $4,552,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Several other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently made changes to their positions in the business. BlackRock, Inc. increased its position in shares of Brookline Bancorp, Inc. by 6.5% during the second quarter. BlackRock Inc. now owns 9,300,912 shares of the bank’s stock valued at $135,794,000 after acquiring an additional 564,134 shares during the last quarter. Vanguard Group, Inc. increased its position in shares of Brookline Bancorp, Inc. by 5.7% during the second quarter. Vanguard Group, Inc. now owns 6,931,162 shares of the bank’s stock valued at $101,195,000 after acquiring an additional 376,821 shares during the last quarter. Dimensional Fund Advisors, LP increased its position in shares of Brookline Bancorp, Inc. by 4.7% during the second quarter. Dimensional Fund Advisors, LP now owns 6,208,632 shares of the bank’s stock valued at $90,647,000 after acquiring an additional 279,758 shares during the last quarter. Fuller & Thaler Asset Management, Inc. increased its position in shares of Brookline Bancorp, Inc. by 63.7% during the third quarter. Fuller & Thaler Asset Management, Inc. now owns 3,813,898 shares of the bank’s stock valued at $59,115,000 after acquiring an additional 1,483,727 shares during the last quarter. Finally, State Street Corp increased its position in shares of Brookline Bancorp, Inc. by 11.0% during the second quarter. State Street Corp. now owns 2,579,882 shares of the bank’s stock valued at $37,666,000 after acquiring an additional 255,702 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 77.63% of the company’s stock.

In related news, CEO Paul A. Perrault sold 103,255 shares of Brookline Bancorp, Inc. stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, November 8th. The shares were sold at an average price of $14.69, for a total value of $1,516,815.95. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief executive officer now owns 421,122 shares in the company, valued at $6,186,282.18. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at the SEC website. Also, Director John L. Hall II acquired 20,000 shares of the company’s stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, December 13th. The stock was acquired at an average price of $15.48 per share, with a total value of $309,600.00. The disclosure for this purchase can be found here. Insiders sold 142,255 shares of company stock valued at $2,138,396 in the last 90 days. Company insiders own 2.85% of the company’s stock.

Brookline Bancorp, Inc. (NASDAQ:BRKL) opened at $15.95 on Friday. The company has a quick ratio of 1.16, a current ratio of 1.16 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.21. The firm has a market cap of $1,195.78, a P/E ratio of 20.45 and a beta of 0.97. Brookline Bancorp, Inc. has a twelve month low of $13.60 and a twelve month high of $17.45.

Brookline Bancorp (NASDAQ:BRKL) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, October 18th. The bank reported $0.20 earnings per share for the quarter, meeting analysts’ consensus estimates of $0.20. The firm had revenue of $62.82 million during the quarter, compared to analysts’ expectations of $60.37 million. Brookline Bancorp, Inc. had a net margin of 19.82% and a return on equity of 7.52%. During the same quarter in the previous year, the business posted $0.19 earnings per share. research analysts expect that Brookline Bancorp, Inc. will post 0.8 EPS for the current fiscal year.

A number of brokerages have weighed in on BRKL. BidaskClub cut shares of Brookline Bancorp, Inc. from a “strong-buy” rating to a “buy” rating in a research report on Thursday, December 7th. Sandler O’Neill cut shares of Brookline Bancorp from a “buy” rating to a “hold” rating in a research report on Thursday, October 19th. Three analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and two have issued a buy rating to the stock. The stock has a consensus rating of “Hold” and a consensus target price of $15.83.

Brookline Bancorp Company Profile

Brookline Bancorp, Inc. operates as a multi-bank holding company for Brookline Bank and its subsidiaries; Bank Rhode Island (BankRI) and its subsidiaries; First Ipswich Bank (First Ipswich) and its subsidiaries, and Brookline Securities Corp. As a commercially focused financial institution with 50 full-service banking offices throughout greater Boston, the north shore of Massachusetts and Rhode Island, the Company, through Brookline Bank, BankRI and First Ipswich (individually and collectively the Banks), offered a range of commercial, business and retail banking services, including cash management products, online banking services, consumer and residential loans and investment services throughout central New England, as of December 31, 2016.

Brookline Fire Fighters Respond To Fire On Beacon Street Near Waxy’s

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Brookline.com

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January 5, 2018

If you saw a number of fire trucks and a ladder near Waxy’s on Beacon Street and wondered what was going on Friday evening, fire fighters responded to a basement fire at 1038 Beacon Street, according to fire officials. By 5:45 p.m. the scene was clear but the frigid temperatures and winds did not make fighting the fire very easy.

No word yet on whether anyone was injured or displaced. The building has 25 condo units.

Pergolesi’s Stabat Mater & Brahms’ Alto Rhapsody

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Brookline.com

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January 5, 2018

Mezzo-soprano Hei Lee Law will perform Alto Rhapsody (1869) by Johannes Brahms. Together with Soprano Mengtao Zhou, they will present Giovanni Battista Pergolesi’s famous chamber work Stabat Mater (1736).

Yukiko Oba will be the pianist for this concert, which begins at 2:30 p.m. on January 6, 2018.

Location:

Brookline Village – Hunneman Hall
361 Washington Street
Brookline, MA 02445

Top 10 Trash Takes Of 2017

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Brookline.com

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January 5, 2018

Here is a recap of Brookline’s top ten trash and recycling stories for the past year:

1. HPAYT (June 2017)

13,200 Brookline households converted to black waste carts for weekly discards. The hybrid pay-as-you-throw program brings more efficiency to trash collection and better reflects the true cost of disposing of trash – bringing savings to those who throw out less.

2. China’s “National Sword” initiative (September 2017)

The People’s Republic of China, upset over contamination in recyclables sent from the USA and other countries, pulled import licenses causing prices for used paper, cardboard, and metal and plastic containers to plummet. And municipal costs for recycling went sky high.

3. Composting at Brookline High (June 2017)

Brookline’s largest restaurant, the BHS cafeteria, began composting of food and paper waste. During the month of November alone, students diverted over three tons!

4. Pink bags (April 2017)

The town contracted with Simple Recycling, Inc. to offer a convenient way for residents to repurpose no-longer-needed clothes, textiles, and homegoods. Pink bags should be placed at curbside.

5. Purple over flow bags (June 2017)

Residents can take responsibility for the true cost of disposing of their extra trash with $3 purple overflow bags. They are available at local stores.

6. Contamination in blue carts (2017)

Inspectors renewed efforts to make sure residents follow guidelines for recycling. And most residents responded by keeping plastic bags, foam, food, dog waste and other contaminants out of their blue carts.

7. Southbridge Landfill to close (August 2017)

As the landfill nears capacity and struggles with leakage from its previous iteration, we increasingly went back to burning Brookline trash in the SEMASS waste-to-energy plant in Rochester.

8. HHP Drop-Off (October 2017)

Residents made over 1,248 trips to properly dispose of household hazardous products at the HHP Drop-Off between May 1 and Oct. 31.

9. New members (January 2017)

In a purge the scale of which has not been witnessed since the Presidium changes of 1957, the Solid Waste Advisory Committee lost three long-time members and added four new ones. Thanks to Cynthia Snow, Amie Lindenboim and Barbara Field. Welcome to Kathleen O’Connell, Mary Litterst, John Shreffler and Deane Coady.

Thanks for helping municipal solid waste work in Brookline!

Reminders:

Yard Waste collection is over until Monday, April 2, 2018.

“Naked” Christmas trees will be collected at curbside until Wednesday, Jan. 31, 2018.

You know the drill: Remove trees from those big plastic bags. Thanks!

For more information on sanitation, recycling and hazardous waste, visit here.

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