We are fortunate to have two speakers this month! We will hear from one of our new city councilors and a very brite young woman, Ayah Al-Zubi. We felt it was important to introduce ourselves to her. And for us to get to know her and to understand what issues of most interest to her.Currently she is digging in deeply on one of those issues, housing, and especially "social housing". How might it work in Cambridge?But first, What is social housing? How would it fit with all the other forms of housing proposed right now? We will also meet with an amazing woman, Joanne Kossuth, Chief Operating Officer, Lesley University (our host for these meetings).We all know Lesley purchased a lot of real estate, much of it in the Porter Square neighborhood. And then had to sell a lot of it, in a post COVID world with a very different economy. They also had to reshape the University's vision and role in this new world. I have asked Joanne if she would trace a bit of that history, for those who may not know, but mostly to bring us up to date. Where and what is Lesley University now? Lesley has spent a lot of time and money in their Brattle Campus in the last few years. I was lucky enough to attend the re-opening of the beautiful St. John's Chapel there recently and can only wish we had such a lovely, small performance spot here in Porter Square. Perhaps Joanne can share with us what comes next. Finally, we will hold a brief review of our bylaws at the meetings' end. On that note, if you are not a member (a bargain at $10/yr.), why not? You can hand it to us at the meeting. Our mission statement is:
The purpose of this organization shall be to develop, enhance, and maintain the quality of life in Porter Square and adjacent neighborhoods of Cambridge and Somerville, Massachusetts.
Membership in this organization shall be open to residents, business owners, and all others who have an interest in improving the quality of life in Porter Square.
___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________We meet in person, 7-9pm, at Lesley University Hall, 1815 Mass Ave, Rm 2-078. Our meetings are hybrid, so you can also join us online. The zoom instructions will be posted next week.