Heather Watkins Campaigns for Accessible Roslindale

Posted by John B. Kelly

Heather Watkins lives in Roslindale and would like to be able to get in the front door of local businesses. Her story is written up here in the Roslindale Transcript:

She recently wrote about her efforts:

Accessibility is such an important issue which has spurned my sense of agency so I am indeed passionate about it. I am eager to learn, share ideas and see this project through.

I did meet with Commissioner [for Persons with Disabilities Stephen] Spinetto on Wed 10/25. He was very receptive and we took a tour of Roslindale Square and made notes of businesses with compromised access. He stated that he would do some surveying and work with business owners to remedy the problem.

We left on a positive note and agreed to stay in touch regarding the progress of the project.

I have not met with any business owners as yet. I am waiting to hear back from Lisa Modecker, the Roslindale Board of Trade President to schedule a meeting. She also seemed receptive and open to ideas.

We look forward to chronicling the responsiveness of the city and local business group.

Photo Contest regarding Boston's "Unique Character"

Avenue of the Arts: historic brick sidewalks since 2004. Photo: Rob DuBuske

Posted by John B. Kelly

In today's CityLine Newsletter from the city of Boston:

CityofBoston.gov Photo Contest

Calling all photographers! The City of Boston is looking for great photos of Boston to feature on our website. We're looking for photos that show our city's unique character and beauty. Whether you're a professional photographer, or just like to take pictures, we invite you to submit photos. www.cityofboston.gov/photocontest

Boston is a great city -- unless you depend on smooth walkways to get around. Did you know that there is no accessible path of travel to the Statehouse? Just try to get up there by that brick sidewalk along Beacon Street. Park Street's one sidewalk is blocked by an alley with no curb cuts. Getting to City Hall is just as difficult.

How inaccessible is Boston? Boston is so inaccessible that even the hospitals torture their own patients with bricks.

Inaccessibility is part of Boston's "unique character." Let's document it.

The deadline is December 6, and they're looking for color digital images only. Judges will be looking for "panoramic photos for our global navigation segments which include: Home, Resident, Business, Student and Visitor section as well as square photos to be used throughout the site."

And these are the "themes":

* Cityscapes
* Tourist Attractions
* Students / College Campuses
* Day and Night
* Boston Landmarks
* Neighborhoods
* Parks
* Seasonal
* Scenic

Individuals can submit up to five pictures.