Opinion

By Phil Orlandella

Stopping Street Outdoor Dining Justified at This Time

Street Outdoor Dining may not take place this year in the North End, creating a loss of revenue for local restaurants and much-needed relief for residents impacted by the program controlled by the city.

Closure of the Tunnel, Northern Avenue Bridge and Government Center Garage construction were cited as the reasons for the postponing the 2023 program.

A creation of a task force to study the future of the program has been formed.

Not happy with the city’s decision, restaurant owners have indicated they will sue the city, claiming it was not fair to them.

It appears that legal action will not prevail because the city would not have taken this action if they felt it was an issue that would be overturned in court.

Residents were planning on opposing the program before the city announced the 2023 postponement of Street Outdoor Dining.

The condition for putting the program on hold makes sense and the formation of a task force to study the effects of Street Outdoor Dining in the North End will hopefully produce a doable solution that everyone can live and work with.

Ruff is a Dedicated Neighborhood Organization

One of the most unrecognized North End nonprofit community organizations is without question the Responsible Urbanities For Fido (RUFF) which was formed in 2012.

Over the years, RUFF has played a key role and continues to educate local dog owners of their responsibilities of being a good neighbor as a pet owner.

Through meetings, events, activities and informative newsletters RUFF consistently encourages dog owners to pick up and clean up after their pets, keep them on a leash and avoid public parks and malls.

Ruff also manages the dog park in the DeFilippo Park (Gassy) where dogs do the duty and run around with other pets.

Ruff was instrumental in turning the Gassy (2017) into the first of its kind in the North End.

The community group still organizes neighborhood cleanups, pet cleanups, seasonal prep, hosting educational activities for dog owners with trainers and veterinarians (free of charge) and conducts and attends neighborhood meetings, advising of their goals and upcoming activities.

Ruff, over the years, has worked towards healthy dog living and for better neighborhood relations and has achieved these goals.

They are a truly concerned community organization that deserves recognition for the great job they do.

A Top-Notch Summer Day Camp

Under the direction of Patricia Romano and a qualified staff, the Nazzaro Community Center manages a terrific Little Tykes Summer Camp for boys and girls ages 6-12, Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 6 PM.

The program provides many fun-filled activities from July 3 to August 18, including sports activities, field trips, arts and crafts, music, dance, swimming and much more.

The Camp offers a great opportunity for children to be active during the summer months. This is a top-notch summer day camp.