Haven’t had much time to surf the web for the North End / Waterfront news this past week? Not to worry – we have gathered several interesting articles from alternative news sources and compiled them for you in this simple, convenient post. Start with the evolution of playgrounds in the United States since their beginning in 1885. What they are now could have never been imagined by the kids playing in the original American “Sand Garden” playground, right here on Parmenter Street in the North End neighborhood.
How the American playground was born in Boston
Knowing what playgrounds look like today, it is hard to imagine that the first ever play ground in American was in the North End neighborhood of Boston. A predominately poor immigrant neighborhood at the time, a charitable group put a ‘sand box’ on Parmenter Street in 1885. Little did they know, it would change the tide of growing up in the United States, continue reading at, The Boston Globe. Also, view this collection of photos of the progressions that America’s playgrounds have made since their birth in the North End.
Mayor challenges Boston residents to sweep up city
Mayor Martin J. Walsh has no intention of ignoring the dirty streets in Boston’s neighborhoods but is calling for an all hands on deck effort from residents and businesses. Mayor Walsh told a gathering of North End business owners that businesses should sweep in front of their stores, calling for residents to do the same. “Nothing compares to the North End,” said the Mayor, acknowledging that the North End is important to keep clean due to it being a focal point for tourism in the city. Read more at The Boston Herald and catch the full presentation video here.
Enjoying the Boston Harborwalk
Spring time means warmer weather, increased tourism, and many folks enjoying the Boston Harborwalk. A free audio tour accompanies the hour-long, mile walk around the waterfront which begins in the North End’s Christopher Columbus Park and ends in the Moakley Courthouse. The stories told from longtime Bostonians adds another element to the history and scenic views. Read more at The Valley Dispatch.
RUFF Dog Park Proposal for the Greenway
RUFF (Responsible Urbanites For Fido) has released their proposal for a dog park on the Greenway in the North End. RUFF is making an effort to raise funds for the park that would address issues of less responsible dog owners by providing a dog-friendly park, away from kids and playgrounds. For more information and how you can get involved, visit, Boston Zest. Keep up on their progress with the RUFF Facebook page.
BACK TO BOSTON: A year after tragedy, historic city thrives in the present
Noting the historic ramifications that are associated with the city of Boston, this article shows how the city and their resilient residents continue to prosper after the Marathon bombings. This April marks the year anniversary of the tragic marathon bombing. The city is surrounded by history, catch them all while taking note of the stops along the freedom trail at DailyRecord.com.
With Preschool On The Agenda, Boston Attracts National Attention
Should Boston schools and school districts nationwide have universal pre-k for children? A Harvard University study of Boston’s K1 program — preschool for 4-year-olds – suggests that a big, urban effort can make a difference, they have seen great gains in mathematics and vocabulary. Boston’s urban schools are among the best in the country, preschool teachers are held to the same standards as teachers in the upper grades, requiring masters degrees. Read more at WBUR.
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