Category: City Life

  • Two Takes on Dressing for 23 Degrees in Boston

    As temperatures dipped into the low 20s with the wind chill in single digits, we spotted two approaches to dressing for the cold, earlier this week.

    -dressing-for-winter-20-degrees-boston-

    This person was wrapped in colorful layers with just a nose peeking out.

    -dressing-for-winter-20-degrees-boston- (2)

    While a block away, the Back Bay's famous mail carrier in shorts chatted with a resident and gave the pup a few pats.

    If you're chilly, here are some of our tips for Keeping Warm in a Boston Winter.

    Do you have an Amazon Gift Certificate to use? Or do you need to buy one for a holiday gift? Remember to click over to Amazon from here to support this site!

     Details:

    Words: Penny & Ed Cherubino
    Photography: © 2013 Penny & Ed Cherubino  

    Note on Comments: We monitor comments constantly and anything that is pure spam, inappropriate, or nasty is swept away. In addition to readers' comments, we welcome hearing from the people, places, and services we cover. Often, those add great insights for our readers. As long as it doesn’t become a pure ad, we’d love to hear from you. We do reserve the right to edit ads and links out of comments.

  • Two Takes on Dressing for 23 Degrees in Boston

    As temperatures dipped into the low 20s with the wind chill in single digits, we spotted two approaches to dressing for the cold, earlier this week.

    -dressing-for-winter-20-degrees-boston-

    This person was wrapped in colorful layers with just a nose peeking out.

    -dressing-for-winter-20-degrees-boston- (2)

    While a block away, the Back Bay's famous mail carrier in shorts chatted with a resident and gave the pup a few pats.

    If you're chilly, here are some of our tips for Keeping Warm in a Boston Winter.

    Do you have an Amazon Gift Certificate to use? Or do you need to buy one for a holiday gift? Remember to click over to Amazon from here to support this site!

     Details:

    Words: Penny & Ed Cherubino
    Photography: © 2013 Penny & Ed Cherubino  

    Note on Comments: We monitor comments constantly and anything that is pure spam, inappropriate, or nasty is swept away. In addition to readers' comments, we welcome hearing from the people, places, and services we cover. Often, those add great insights for our readers. As long as it doesn’t become a pure ad, we’d love to hear from you. We do reserve the right to edit ads and links out of comments.

  • Boston Snow Emergency Links 2013 – 2014

    Here's what you need to know in a Boston Snow Emergency for the winter of 2013 – 2014. 

    This post contains out of date links. We have created a new Snow Emergency post.

    What You Need to Know in a Boston Snow Emergency on a Single Page

    We'll update that article with news items as we receive them throughout the season. To find out when we've updated this information, follow us on Twitter.  

    More Information here.

    6a00e54fc42bb88834017d40e85953970c-800wi

    General information you need to know about any snow emergency. 

    • "Use public transportation when possible and avoid driving vehicles on slippery roads to keep roadways clear for plowing equipment and emergency vehicles.
    • Property owners are reminded to salt and sand sidewalks, stairs and pedestrian ramps to prevent slippery surfaces.
    • Residents are encouraged to shovel out hydrants and catch basins near or abutting their property to assist our public safety agencies and protect against flooding.   
    • Please check on elderly or vulnerable neighbors who may need help.
    • Use caution when walking near buildings that may have falling snow or ice
    • Parking rules are strictly enforced during snow storms.  Do not block driveways, crosswalks or ramps, and do not park within 20 feet of an intersection"

    Winter storms have an impact on our lives and the city distributed "Boston Winter Weather Guide 2013-2014" brochures to households a few weeks ago to help us learn what to do. The city says,

    Before The Storm

    If you haven't alread done it, click over and sign up for notifications by the City's Emergency notification system. It could save you a parking ticket or a tow.

    Adopt a Hydrant: Really great neighbors will locate and note the landmarks to find their nearest fire hydrant and work with one another to dig around it and keep it clear for the entire winter season. This community action can save lives and homes. Sign up here!

    If the storm drain near your home is blocked with leaves and debris, you can clear it to prevent flooding when the snow melts.

    Find your winter boots, shovels, windshield scrapers, sand, salt, and ice melt. (For the sake of dogs who walk barefoot on sidewalks, please choose a "Paw Safe" option when buying de-icing products.)

    And, if you have a car, you may want to park it somewhere that is not signed as a "Snow Emergency Route." Here is a list of the major arteries for the Downtown Boston area with parking restrictions.

    Heavy snowfalls can increase the risk for roof collapses. Here are the city's Tips for Protecting Your Roof.

    Snow Emergency Parking in Boston Neighborhoods

    With a warning that Parking Regulations will be strictly enforced, the city asks of residents:

    "DO

        * Remove disabled cars blocking roadways as soon as possible.
        * Make your resident parking sticker visible within 24 hours after the end of a storm.
        * Park in discount garages in your neighborhood with valid resident parking sticker visible. Arrive up to two hours prior to the start of the snow emergency and leave two hours after the emergency is lifted; otherwise you will be  subject to standard parking rates.
        * Follow all other parking regulations during snow emergencies; they will be strictly enforced. Parking meters remain in effect.
        * Follow winter weather driving tips.

    DON'T

        * Park on a posted snow emergency artery during a declared emergency. You will be ticketed and towed.
        * Use space savers more than 48 hours after a snow emergency has been lifted.
        * Park within 20 feet of an intersection or further than 1 foot from the curb.
        * Park in crosswalks or in front of fire hydrants or ramps.
        * Park in front of driveways or extend your car from the driveway over the sidewalk or street."

    6a00e54fc42bb88834017ee85d1a6f970d-800wi

    If your Car is Missing


    There are off street parking spaces available to residents during the storm. 

    Go to this page, choose your neighborhood, and you'll see a list of available parking lots and garages and what they charge under this program for those with designated resident stickers.

    Prices in garages range from $2 (Boston Common Garage) to $14.00 for 24 hours. In some sections of the city, municipal lots are free for those with resident stickers. All of these are on a first come, first serve basis.

    Digging Out

    Once snow falls, you see how seldom some cars in Boston are moved. We walk by cars that sit, snow-covered, for weeks on end. If you do dig out your car, you are not supposed to put the snow onto the street or a cleared sidewalk. That adds to the fun of the job.

    If you live in a section of the city with a tradition of space savers, the city says those must be and will be removed 48 hours after a snow emergency has been lifted. For those new to this game, "space savers" are chairs, trash cans, and other objects that are placed in cleared and empty parking spaces to save the spot for the person who shoveled it.

    Once snow, slush, or ice is on the ground, someone has to remove it from sidewalks.
    In the city of Boston and in most surrounding communities, that someone is you or the people you hire to do it for you.

    There was a Supreme Court Ruling in the state. The Boston Globe says this means, "property owners now can be held liable for injuries that are linked to any snow and ice on their land, regardless of whether the conditions were caused by nature or a city plow." Here's a link to the full story on that ruling.

    In Boston, regulations for Snow Removal from Sidewalks are available on this page.

    Here's the place to start for winter storm information from the city:

    Subscribe to Snow Emergency Alerts by text, voice, or email:

    Snow Emergency phone numbers in Boston:

    Main number: 617-635-3050

    24-Hour Hot Line: 617-635-4500

    UH FT

    French Toast Alert System

    If you're new to the area or haven't been paying attention, you may not know this term. French Toast Alert comes from the rush to grocery stores for basic provisions (milk, bread, and eggs) when storms are predicted. Here's a link to the master page of the official French Toast Alert system for this area.

    Keep information like this coming your way by supporting BostonZest when you shop at Amazon. Click on any link to Amazon on this site and shop for what you want. BostonZest will receive credit for your purchase. That's what keeps sites like this up and running.

    Do you have an Amazon Gift Certificate to use? Or do you need to buy one for a gift? Remember to click over to Amazon from here to support this site!

    Details:

    Writers: Penny & Ed Cherubino

    Photos: © 2012 Penny Cherubino

     

    "Snow Emergency/Parking Ban: In Effect at 12:00PM Friday 2/8 

    Schools: CLOSED Friday 2/8 

    Trash/Recycling: Collection will begin at 6AM on Friday 2/8. Please place trash & recycling out by 6AM. Crew will begin working early and shutdown when it is no longer safe to be on the roads.  

    Community Centers: All BCYF Community Centers & Buildings are closed Friday 2/8, Saturday 2/9 and Sunday 2/10. 

    Libraries: All libraries will be closed Friday 2/8, Saturday 2/9 and Sunday 2/10. 

    City Hall/Municipal Offices: Will close to the public at 12:00PM Friday 2/8.  

    City Employees: Essential Personnel only  

    Parking Meters: Normal rules apply  

    Tow Lot: Normal Hours 

    Street Cleaning: Normal Schedule 

    City Cemeteries: Closed until Monday 2/11 

    City Golf Courses: Closed until Monday 2/11  

    MBTA: All service will be suspended effective 3:30PM on 2/8. Visit www.mbta.comfor details.  

    Courts: Check with the individual courthouse for more information.  

    Other/Special Events*: N/A 

    *The City of Boston is not responsible for the cancellation or scheduling of private entertainment events or venues."

  • Boston Snow Emergency Links 2013 – 2014

    Here's what you need to know in a Boston Snow Emergency for the winter of 2013 – 2014. 

    This post contains out of date links. We have created a new Snow Emergency post.

    What You Need to Know in a Boston Snow Emergency on a Single Page

    We'll update that article with news items as we receive them throughout the season. To find out when we've updated this information, follow us on Twitter.  

    More Information here.

    6a00e54fc42bb88834017d40e85953970c-800wi

    General information you need to know about any snow emergency. 

    • "Use public transportation when possible and avoid driving vehicles on slippery roads to keep roadways clear for plowing equipment and emergency vehicles.
    • Property owners are reminded to salt and sand sidewalks, stairs and pedestrian ramps to prevent slippery surfaces.
    • Residents are encouraged to shovel out hydrants and catch basins near or abutting their property to assist our public safety agencies and protect against flooding.   
    • Please check on elderly or vulnerable neighbors who may need help.
    • Use caution when walking near buildings that may have falling snow or ice
    • Parking rules are strictly enforced during snow storms.  Do not block driveways, crosswalks or ramps, and do not park within 20 feet of an intersection"

    Winter storms have an impact on our lives and the city distributed "Boston Winter Weather Guide 2013-2014" brochures to households a few weeks ago to help us learn what to do. The city says,

    Before The Storm

    If you haven't alread done it, click over and sign up for notifications by the City's Emergency notification system. It could save you a parking ticket or a tow.

    Adopt a Hydrant: Really great neighbors will locate and note the landmarks to find their nearest fire hydrant and work with one another to dig around it and keep it clear for the entire winter season. This community action can save lives and homes. Sign up here!

    If the storm drain near your home is blocked with leaves and debris, you can clear it to prevent flooding when the snow melts.

    Find your winter boots, shovels, windshield scrapers, sand, salt, and ice melt. (For the sake of dogs who walk barefoot on sidewalks, please choose a "Paw Safe" option when buying de-icing products.)

    And, if you have a car, you may want to park it somewhere that is not signed as a "Snow Emergency Route." Here is a list of the major arteries for the Downtown Boston area with parking restrictions.

    Heavy snowfalls can increase the risk for roof collapses. Here are the city's Tips for Protecting Your Roof.

    Snow Emergency Parking in Boston Neighborhoods

    With a warning that Parking Regulations will be strictly enforced, the city asks of residents:

    "DO

        * Remove disabled cars blocking roadways as soon as possible.
        * Make your resident parking sticker visible within 24 hours after the end of a storm.
        * Park in discount garages in your neighborhood with valid resident parking sticker visible. Arrive up to two hours prior to the start of the snow emergency and leave two hours after the emergency is lifted; otherwise you will be  subject to standard parking rates.
        * Follow all other parking regulations during snow emergencies; they will be strictly enforced. Parking meters remain in effect.
        * Follow winter weather driving tips.

    DON'T

        * Park on a posted snow emergency artery during a declared emergency. You will be ticketed and towed.
        * Use space savers more than 48 hours after a snow emergency has been lifted.
        * Park within 20 feet of an intersection or further than 1 foot from the curb.
        * Park in crosswalks or in front of fire hydrants or ramps.
        * Park in front of driveways or extend your car from the driveway over the sidewalk or street."

    6a00e54fc42bb88834017ee85d1a6f970d-800wi

    If your Car is Missing


    There are off street parking spaces available to residents during the storm. 

    Go to this page, choose your neighborhood, and you'll see a list of available parking lots and garages and what they charge under this program for those with designated resident stickers.

    Prices in garages range from $2 (Boston Common Garage) to $14.00 for 24 hours. In some sections of the city, municipal lots are free for those with resident stickers. All of these are on a first come, first serve basis.

    Digging Out

    Once snow falls, you see how seldom some cars in Boston are moved. We walk by cars that sit, snow-covered, for weeks on end. If you do dig out your car, you are not supposed to put the snow onto the street or a cleared sidewalk. That adds to the fun of the job.

    If you live in a section of the city with a tradition of space savers, the city says those must be and will be removed 48 hours after a snow emergency has been lifted. For those new to this game, "space savers" are chairs, trash cans, and other objects that are placed in cleared and empty parking spaces to save the spot for the person who shoveled it.

    Once snow, slush, or ice is on the ground, someone has to remove it from sidewalks.
    In the city of Boston and in most surrounding communities, that someone is you or the people you hire to do it for you.

    There was a Supreme Court Ruling in the state. The Boston Globe says this means, "property owners now can be held liable for injuries that are linked to any snow and ice on their land, regardless of whether the conditions were caused by nature or a city plow." Here's a link to the full story on that ruling.

    In Boston, regulations for Snow Removal from Sidewalks are available on this page.

    Here's the place to start for winter storm information from the city:

    Subscribe to Snow Emergency Alerts by text, voice, or email:

    Snow Emergency phone numbers in Boston:

    Main number: 617-635-3050

    24-Hour Hot Line: 617-635-4500

    UH FT

    French Toast Alert System

    If you're new to the area or haven't been paying attention, you may not know this term. French Toast Alert comes from the rush to grocery stores for basic provisions (milk, bread, and eggs) when storms are predicted. Here's a link to the master page of the official French Toast Alert system for this area.

    Keep information like this coming your way by supporting BostonZest when you shop at Amazon. Click on any link to Amazon on this site and shop for what you want. BostonZest will receive credit for your purchase. That's what keeps sites like this up and running.

    Do you have an Amazon Gift Certificate to use? Or do you need to buy one for a gift? Remember to click over to Amazon from here to support this site!

    Details:

    Writers: Penny & Ed Cherubino

    Photos: © 2012 Penny Cherubino

     

    "Snow Emergency/Parking Ban: In Effect at 12:00PM Friday 2/8 

    Schools: CLOSED Friday 2/8 

    Trash/Recycling: Collection will begin at 6AM on Friday 2/8. Please place trash & recycling out by 6AM. Crew will begin working early and shutdown when it is no longer safe to be on the roads.  

    Community Centers: All BCYF Community Centers & Buildings are closed Friday 2/8, Saturday 2/9 and Sunday 2/10. 

    Libraries: All libraries will be closed Friday 2/8, Saturday 2/9 and Sunday 2/10. 

    City Hall/Municipal Offices: Will close to the public at 12:00PM Friday 2/8.  

    City Employees: Essential Personnel only  

    Parking Meters: Normal rules apply  

    Tow Lot: Normal Hours 

    Street Cleaning: Normal Schedule 

    City Cemeteries: Closed until Monday 2/11 

    City Golf Courses: Closed until Monday 2/11  

    MBTA: All service will be suspended effective 3:30PM on 2/8. Visit www.mbta.comfor details.  

    Courts: Check with the individual courthouse for more information.  

    Other/Special Events*: N/A 

    *The City of Boston is not responsible for the cancellation or scheduling of private entertainment events or venues."

  • Boston Snow Emergency Links 2013 – 2014

    Here's what you need to know in a Boston Snow Emergency for the winter of 2013 – 2014. 

    This post contains out of date links. We have created a new Snow Emergency post.

    What You Need to Know in a Boston Snow Emergency on a Single Page

    We'll update that article with news items as we receive them throughout the season. To find out when we've updated this information, follow us on Twitter.  

    More Information here.

    6a00e54fc42bb88834017d40e85953970c-800wi

    General information you need to know about any snow emergency. 

    • "Use public transportation when possible and avoid driving vehicles on slippery roads to keep roadways clear for plowing equipment and emergency vehicles.
    • Property owners are reminded to salt and sand sidewalks, stairs and pedestrian ramps to prevent slippery surfaces.
    • Residents are encouraged to shovel out hydrants and catch basins near or abutting their property to assist our public safety agencies and protect against flooding.   
    • Please check on elderly or vulnerable neighbors who may need help.
    • Use caution when walking near buildings that may have falling snow or ice
    • Parking rules are strictly enforced during snow storms.  Do not block driveways, crosswalks or ramps, and do not park within 20 feet of an intersection"

    Winter storms have an impact on our lives and the city distributed "Boston Winter Weather Guide 2013-2014" brochures to households a few weeks ago to help us learn what to do. The city says,

    Before The Storm

    If you haven't alread done it, click over and sign up for notifications by the City's Emergency notification system. It could save you a parking ticket or a tow.

    Adopt a Hydrant: Really great neighbors will locate and note the landmarks to find their nearest fire hydrant and work with one another to dig around it and keep it clear for the entire winter season. This community action can save lives and homes. Sign up here!

    If the storm drain near your home is blocked with leaves and debris, you can clear it to prevent flooding when the snow melts.

    Find your winter boots, shovels, windshield scrapers, sand, salt, and ice melt. (For the sake of dogs who walk barefoot on sidewalks, please choose a "Paw Safe" option when buying de-icing products.)

    And, if you have a car, you may want to park it somewhere that is not signed as a "Snow Emergency Route." Here is a list of the major arteries for the Downtown Boston area with parking restrictions.

    Heavy snowfalls can increase the risk for roof collapses. Here are the city's Tips for Protecting Your Roof.

    Snow Emergency Parking in Boston Neighborhoods

    With a warning that Parking Regulations will be strictly enforced, the city asks of residents:

    "DO

        * Remove disabled cars blocking roadways as soon as possible.
        * Make your resident parking sticker visible within 24 hours after the end of a storm.
        * Park in discount garages in your neighborhood with valid resident parking sticker visible. Arrive up to two hours prior to the start of the snow emergency and leave two hours after the emergency is lifted; otherwise you will be  subject to standard parking rates.
        * Follow all other parking regulations during snow emergencies; they will be strictly enforced. Parking meters remain in effect.
        * Follow winter weather driving tips.

    DON'T

        * Park on a posted snow emergency artery during a declared emergency. You will be ticketed and towed.
        * Use space savers more than 48 hours after a snow emergency has been lifted.
        * Park within 20 feet of an intersection or further than 1 foot from the curb.
        * Park in crosswalks or in front of fire hydrants or ramps.
        * Park in front of driveways or extend your car from the driveway over the sidewalk or street."

    6a00e54fc42bb88834017ee85d1a6f970d-800wi

    If your Car is Missing


    There are off street parking spaces available to residents during the storm. 

    Go to this page, choose your neighborhood, and you'll see a list of available parking lots and garages and what they charge under this program for those with designated resident stickers.

    Prices in garages range from $2 (Boston Common Garage) to $14.00 for 24 hours. In some sections of the city, municipal lots are free for those with resident stickers. All of these are on a first come, first serve basis.

    Digging Out

    Once snow falls, you see how seldom some cars in Boston are moved. We walk by cars that sit, snow-covered, for weeks on end. If you do dig out your car, you are not supposed to put the snow onto the street or a cleared sidewalk. That adds to the fun of the job.

    If you live in a section of the city with a tradition of space savers, the city says those must be and will be removed 48 hours after a snow emergency has been lifted. For those new to this game, "space savers" are chairs, trash cans, and other objects that are placed in cleared and empty parking spaces to save the spot for the person who shoveled it.

    Once snow, slush, or ice is on the ground, someone has to remove it from sidewalks.
    In the city of Boston and in most surrounding communities, that someone is you or the people you hire to do it for you.

    There was a Supreme Court Ruling in the state. The Boston Globe says this means, "property owners now can be held liable for injuries that are linked to any snow and ice on their land, regardless of whether the conditions were caused by nature or a city plow." Here's a link to the full story on that ruling.

    In Boston, regulations for Snow Removal from Sidewalks are available on this page.

    Here's the place to start for winter storm information from the city:

    Subscribe to Snow Emergency Alerts by text, voice, or email:

    Snow Emergency phone numbers in Boston:

    Main number: 617-635-3050

    24-Hour Hot Line: 617-635-4500

    UH FT

    French Toast Alert System

    If you're new to the area or haven't been paying attention, you may not know this term. French Toast Alert comes from the rush to grocery stores for basic provisions (milk, bread, and eggs) when storms are predicted. Here's a link to the master page of the official French Toast Alert system for this area.

    Keep information like this coming your way by supporting BostonZest when you shop at Amazon. Click on any link to Amazon on this site and shop for what you want. BostonZest will receive credit for your purchase. That's what keeps sites like this up and running.

    Do you have an Amazon Gift Certificate to use? Or do you need to buy one for a gift? Remember to click over to Amazon from here to support this site!

    Details:

    Writers: Penny & Ed Cherubino

    Photos: © 2012 Penny Cherubino

     

    "Snow Emergency/Parking Ban: In Effect at 12:00PM Friday 2/8 

    Schools: CLOSED Friday 2/8 

    Trash/Recycling: Collection will begin at 6AM on Friday 2/8. Please place trash & recycling out by 6AM. Crew will begin working early and shutdown when it is no longer safe to be on the roads.  

    Community Centers: All BCYF Community Centers & Buildings are closed Friday 2/8, Saturday 2/9 and Sunday 2/10. 

    Libraries: All libraries will be closed Friday 2/8, Saturday 2/9 and Sunday 2/10. 

    City Hall/Municipal Offices: Will close to the public at 12:00PM Friday 2/8.  

    City Employees: Essential Personnel only  

    Parking Meters: Normal rules apply  

    Tow Lot: Normal Hours 

    Street Cleaning: Normal Schedule 

    City Cemeteries: Closed until Monday 2/11 

    City Golf Courses: Closed until Monday 2/11  

    MBTA: All service will be suspended effective 3:30PM on 2/8. Visit www.mbta.comfor details.  

    Courts: Check with the individual courthouse for more information.  

    Other/Special Events*: N/A 

    *The City of Boston is not responsible for the cancellation or scheduling of private entertainment events or venues."

  • What’s Open in Boston on Christmas Eve & Christmas Day & MBTA Schedules 2013

    Here's a rundown of what's open in Boston on Christmas, December 25, 2013, plus information on: trash collection, parking, MBTA schedule changes, and whatever else we were able to gather to answer your Chrismas week questions.

     

    UPDATE …This is an old post here's the latest!

     

    What's Open in Boston on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day & MBTA Schedules 2014

     

    Remember, many businesses close early on Christmas Eve. Call before you leave, if you plan to visit a business on the 24th.

    6a00e54fc42bb88834017c34a7862b970b-800wi

    Welcome to all of you who have found BostonZest.com while looking for this information. We hope you'll look around at the other resources we provide, subscribe to our RSS feed, follow us on Twitter, and come back often.

    Restaurants, bars: Some will be open. Check for special hours and menus and take a look at our piece on Where to Dine on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day 2013 in Boston.

    Convenience stores: Some will be open. Check for special hours.

    Supermarkets: Closed due to "Massachusetts "Blue Laws" on Chrismas Day, December 25th.

    Retail stores: Closed due to "Massachusetts "Blue Laws" on Chrismas Day, December 25th.

    Liquor stores: Closed due to "Massachusetts "Blue Laws"  on Chrismas Day, December 25th.

    City, Town, State and Federal offices and facilities are closed: This includes Schools, Libraries, and the Postal Service. Only emergency services are available.

    Boston Parking: You don't have to feed the meters. Other parking rules apply. When we have official hours for the Tow Lot over the holiday we'll update this section. Call before going on Christmas eve or Chistmas day.

    Boston Trash Collection: The city says the following about trash collection Christmas week:

    "Christmas Day Collection
    Wednesday, December 25 – Saturday, December 28, 2013

    Trash and Recycling collection will be cancelled in all sections of the City on Christmas Day (Wednesday, December 25).

    Regular collection schedule Back Bay, Bay Village, Fenway, South End, Mission Hill, Leather District, and Roxbury for the rest of the week;

    North End, Beacon Hill, Bay Village, Chinatown – regular collection schedule Monday, Friday (Wednesday cancelled);

    Charlestown, delayed a day;

    Allston/Brighton, Dorchester, East Boston, South Boston *Jamaica Plain, West Roxbury and Hyde Park, delayed Wednesday, Thursday and Friday.

    *If you live in Jamaica Plain and your trash and recycling is collected 2 times per week, no delay."

    Financial Services: As the British would say, this is a Bank Holiday with both banks and the stock markets in the United State closed. Some international markets are open.

    MBTA Christmas Eve and Christmas Day Schedule Changes:

    Again this year, the T has included New Year's Eve and New Year's Day, so you can do all your MBTA travel planning at this link! (Please note that the content on this page will change throughout the year.)

    Wednesday, December 25, 2013 – MBTA Christmas Day Schedule (Quick Look)

    • Blue, Orange, Green, Red, and Silver Lines will operate on a Sunday schedule.

    • Buses will run on a Sunday schedule, however some routes will not operate on Christmas day. See those details here.

    • Commuter rail trains will operate on a Sunday schedule (which means some lines will not operate).

    • Hingham and Charlestown boat service will not operate.

    • THE RIDE will operate on a Sunday schedule.

    For additional information on MBTA services, routes, schedules, and fares, please call the MBTA Customer Communications Department at (617) 222-3200 or 1-800-392-6100 (TTY 617-222-5146)," or visit the MBTA website.

    Do you have an Amazon Gift Certificate to use? Or do you need to buy one for a gift? Remember to click over to Amazon from here to support this site!

     Details:

    Words: Penny & Ed Cherubino
    Photography: © 2013 Penny & Ed Cherubino  

    Note on Comments: We monitor comments constantly and anything that is pure spam, inappropriate, or nasty is swept away. In addition to readers' comments, we welcome hearing from the people, places, and services we cover. Often, those add great insights for our readers. As long as it doesn’t become a pure ad, we’d love to hear from you. We do reserve the right to edit ads and links out of comments.

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  • What’s Open in Boston on Christmas Eve & Christmas Day & MBTA Schedules 2013

    Here's a rundown of what's open in Boston on Christmas, December 25, 2013, plus information on: trash collection, parking, MBTA schedule changes, and whatever else we were able to gather to answer your Chrismas week questions.

     

    UPDATE …This is an old post here's the latest!

     

    What's Open in Boston on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day & MBTA Schedules 2014

     

    Remember, many businesses close early on Christmas Eve. Call before you leave, if you plan to visit a business on the 24th.

    6a00e54fc42bb88834017c34a7862b970b-800wi

    Welcome to all of you who have found BostonZest.com while looking for this information. We hope you'll look around at the other resources we provide, subscribe to our RSS feed, follow us on Twitter, and come back often.

    Restaurants, bars: Some will be open. Check for special hours and menus and take a look at our piece on Where to Dine on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day 2013 in Boston.

    Convenience stores: Some will be open. Check for special hours.

    Supermarkets: Closed due to "Massachusetts "Blue Laws" on Chrismas Day, December 25th.

    Retail stores: Closed due to "Massachusetts "Blue Laws" on Chrismas Day, December 25th.

    Liquor stores: Closed due to "Massachusetts "Blue Laws"  on Chrismas Day, December 25th.

    City, Town, State and Federal offices and facilities are closed: This includes Schools, Libraries, and the Postal Service. Only emergency services are available.

    Boston Parking: You don't have to feed the meters. Other parking rules apply. When we have official hours for the Tow Lot over the holiday we'll update this section. Call before going on Christmas eve or Chistmas day.

    Boston Trash Collection: The city says the following about trash collection Christmas week:

    "Christmas Day Collection
    Wednesday, December 25 – Saturday, December 28, 2013

    Trash and Recycling collection will be cancelled in all sections of the City on Christmas Day (Wednesday, December 25).

    Regular collection schedule Back Bay, Bay Village, Fenway, South End, Mission Hill, Leather District, and Roxbury for the rest of the week;

    North End, Beacon Hill, Bay Village, Chinatown – regular collection schedule Monday, Friday (Wednesday cancelled);

    Charlestown, delayed a day;

    Allston/Brighton, Dorchester, East Boston, South Boston *Jamaica Plain, West Roxbury and Hyde Park, delayed Wednesday, Thursday and Friday.

    *If you live in Jamaica Plain and your trash and recycling is collected 2 times per week, no delay."

    Financial Services: As the British would say, this is a Bank Holiday with both banks and the stock markets in the United State closed. Some international markets are open.

    MBTA Christmas Eve and Christmas Day Schedule Changes:

    Again this year, the T has included New Year's Eve and New Year's Day, so you can do all your MBTA travel planning at this link! (Please note that the content on this page will change throughout the year.)

    Wednesday, December 25, 2013 – MBTA Christmas Day Schedule (Quick Look)

    • Blue, Orange, Green, Red, and Silver Lines will operate on a Sunday schedule.

    • Buses will run on a Sunday schedule, however some routes will not operate on Christmas day. See those details here.

    • Commuter rail trains will operate on a Sunday schedule (which means some lines will not operate).

    • Hingham and Charlestown boat service will not operate.

    • THE RIDE will operate on a Sunday schedule.

    For additional information on MBTA services, routes, schedules, and fares, please call the MBTA Customer Communications Department at (617) 222-3200 or 1-800-392-6100 (TTY 617-222-5146)," or visit the MBTA website.

    Do you have an Amazon Gift Certificate to use? Or do you need to buy one for a gift? Remember to click over to Amazon from here to support this site!

     Details:

    Words: Penny & Ed Cherubino
    Photography: © 2013 Penny & Ed Cherubino  

    Note on Comments: We monitor comments constantly and anything that is pure spam, inappropriate, or nasty is swept away. In addition to readers' comments, we welcome hearing from the people, places, and services we cover. Often, those add great insights for our readers. As long as it doesn’t become a pure ad, we’d love to hear from you. We do reserve the right to edit ads and links out of comments.

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  • What’s Open in Boston on Christmas Eve & Christmas Day & MBTA Schedules 2013

    Here's a rundown of what's open in Boston on Christmas, December 25, 2013, plus information on: trash collection, parking, MBTA schedule changes, and whatever else we were able to gather to answer your Chrismas week questions.

     

    UPDATE …This is an old post here's the latest!

     

    What's Open in Boston on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day & MBTA Schedules 2014

     

    Remember, many businesses close early on Christmas Eve. Call before you leave, if you plan to visit a business on the 24th.

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    Welcome to all of you who have found BostonZest.com while looking for this information. We hope you'll look around at the other resources we provide, subscribe to our RSS feed, follow us on Twitter, and come back often.

    Restaurants, bars: Some will be open. Check for special hours and menus and take a look at our piece on Where to Dine on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day 2013 in Boston.

    Convenience stores: Some will be open. Check for special hours.

    Supermarkets: Closed due to "Massachusetts "Blue Laws" on Chrismas Day, December 25th.

    Retail stores: Closed due to "Massachusetts "Blue Laws" on Chrismas Day, December 25th.

    Liquor stores: Closed due to "Massachusetts "Blue Laws"  on Chrismas Day, December 25th.

    City, Town, State and Federal offices and facilities are closed: This includes Schools, Libraries, and the Postal Service. Only emergency services are available.

    Boston Parking: You don't have to feed the meters. Other parking rules apply. When we have official hours for the Tow Lot over the holiday we'll update this section. Call before going on Christmas eve or Chistmas day.

    Boston Trash Collection: The city says the following about trash collection Christmas week:

    "Christmas Day Collection
    Wednesday, December 25 – Saturday, December 28, 2013

    Trash and Recycling collection will be cancelled in all sections of the City on Christmas Day (Wednesday, December 25).

    Regular collection schedule Back Bay, Bay Village, Fenway, South End, Mission Hill, Leather District, and Roxbury for the rest of the week;

    North End, Beacon Hill, Bay Village, Chinatown – regular collection schedule Monday, Friday (Wednesday cancelled);

    Charlestown, delayed a day;

    Allston/Brighton, Dorchester, East Boston, South Boston *Jamaica Plain, West Roxbury and Hyde Park, delayed Wednesday, Thursday and Friday.

    *If you live in Jamaica Plain and your trash and recycling is collected 2 times per week, no delay."

    Financial Services: As the British would say, this is a Bank Holiday with both banks and the stock markets in the United State closed. Some international markets are open.

    MBTA Christmas Eve and Christmas Day Schedule Changes:

    Again this year, the T has included New Year's Eve and New Year's Day, so you can do all your MBTA travel planning at this link! (Please note that the content on this page will change throughout the year.)

    Wednesday, December 25, 2013 – MBTA Christmas Day Schedule (Quick Look)

    • Blue, Orange, Green, Red, and Silver Lines will operate on a Sunday schedule.

    • Buses will run on a Sunday schedule, however some routes will not operate on Christmas day. See those details here.

    • Commuter rail trains will operate on a Sunday schedule (which means some lines will not operate).

    • Hingham and Charlestown boat service will not operate.

    • THE RIDE will operate on a Sunday schedule.

    For additional information on MBTA services, routes, schedules, and fares, please call the MBTA Customer Communications Department at (617) 222-3200 or 1-800-392-6100 (TTY 617-222-5146)," or visit the MBTA website.

    Do you have an Amazon Gift Certificate to use? Or do you need to buy one for a gift? Remember to click over to Amazon from here to support this site!

     Details:

    Words: Penny & Ed Cherubino
    Photography: © 2013 Penny & Ed Cherubino  

    Note on Comments: We monitor comments constantly and anything that is pure spam, inappropriate, or nasty is swept away. In addition to readers' comments, we welcome hearing from the people, places, and services we cover. Often, those add great insights for our readers. As long as it doesn’t become a pure ad, we’d love to hear from you. We do reserve the right to edit ads and links out of comments.

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  • This Sidewalk’s Made for Exercise Biking…

    IMG_7016 - Version 22013-12-04© 2011 cherubino, exercise-bike-25

    First, some city worker decided to plant a pole in the pedestrian space on this sidewalk rather than putting it in the utility strip near the curb. Then, someone locked an exercise bike to the pole to take up a bit more of the sidewalk.

    Hope the new city administration reads Jeff Speck's book, Walkable City: How Downtown Can Save America, One Step at a Time, and starts thinking about how each small decision impacts pedestrians. 

    Do you have an Amazon Gift Certificate to use? Or do you need to buy one for a Holiday Gift? Remember to click over to Amazon from here to support this site!

     Details:

    Words: Penny & Ed Cherubino
    Photography: © 2013 Penny & Ed Cherubino  

    Note on Comments: We monitor comments constantly and anything that is pure spam, inappropriate, or nasty is swept away. In addition to readers' comments, we welcome hearing from the people, places, and services we cover. Often, those add great insights for our readers. As long as it doesn’t become a pure ad, we’d love to hear from you. We do reserve the right to edit ads and links out of comments.

  • This Sidewalk’s Made for Exercise Biking…

    IMG_7016 - Version 22013-12-04© 2011 cherubino, exercise-bike-25

    First, some city worker decided to plant a pole in the pedestrian space on this sidewalk rather than putting it in the utility strip near the curb. Then, someone locked an exercise bike to the pole to take up a bit more of the sidewalk.

    Hope the new city administration reads Jeff Speck's book, Walkable City: How Downtown Can Save America, One Step at a Time, and starts thinking about how each small decision impacts pedestrians. 

    Do you have an Amazon Gift Certificate to use? Or do you need to buy one for a Holiday Gift? Remember to click over to Amazon from here to support this site!

     Details:

    Words: Penny & Ed Cherubino
    Photography: © 2013 Penny & Ed Cherubino  

    Note on Comments: We monitor comments constantly and anything that is pure spam, inappropriate, or nasty is swept away. In addition to readers' comments, we welcome hearing from the people, places, and services we cover. Often, those add great insights for our readers. As long as it doesn’t become a pure ad, we’d love to hear from you. We do reserve the right to edit ads and links out of comments.