Do you feel entitled? You should...

Ultimately, we don't necessarily want to be an entitlement community but for the state we're in now, I welcome it with open arms. Does anyone really understand what being an entitlement community means? For starters, that $4,000 grant you got for improving your storefront, came direct from the federal government via the community block grant. This money would not have been available to us if we were not an entitlement community.

The Entitlement Grant for Lynn, MA is divided in four ways. For FY09, we saw spending in the following areas:

• Community Block Grant ($2,488,361)
• HOME ($976,986)
• Emergency Shelter Grant ($111,740)
• HOPWA ($326,00)

Let's break this down. The housing money goes to the Lynn Housing Authority and they figure out wht to do with that. I'm not sure if this includes the emergency shelter money or not. I assume the City of Lynn also puts money towards the housing problem above and beyond this, but I don't know that for sure.


HOME is money which is intended to provide affordable housing in Lynn, MA.
HOPWA is money specifically set aside for housing opportunities for individuals with HIV and AIDS.

So, that leaves the largest chunk of money, the Community Block Grant.

This grant can be targeted at several initiatives according to the hud.gov website. Here is the list:

• acquisition of real property;
• relocation and demolition;
• rehabilitation of residential and non-residential structures;
• construction of public facilities and improvements, such as water and sewer facilities, streets, neighborhood centers, and the conversion of school buildings for eligible purposes;
• public services, within certain limits;
• activities relating to energy conservation and renewable energy resources; and
• provision of assistance to profit-motivated businesses to carry out economic development and job creation/retention activities.

Almost $2.5M was spent in Lynn on these activities last year. Would you like to know how it was spent? Well you can. As part of the citizen participation process (hidden in legalize in the Lynn Item and publicized "zero" elsewhere). You can attend a meeting on March 9th, 2009 at the Lynn Housing Authority Community Room (wheelchair accessible).

I will be there this year. I hope you will join me. Let's flood that room. Together we can learn how our money was spent and together we can influence future spending of similar funds that will continue to come our way.

Where would you like to see our Block Grant spent in 2010?

-Corey

Art is Alive in Lynn!

We got the privilege of taking in the recent art opening at Lynn Arts. The Little Gallery Under the Stairs was a strong pull for us. The quality and presentation in that gallery is exceptional. We were pleasantly surprised by many of the other artists on display upstairs in both of the other galleries, but what TLGUTS is doing must be commended. I hope you will all take the time to check out the most recent survey of artists who are also mothers.

 

  

  

On February 27th, they will be showing this film. Check out this site about the film for more information. 

I had noticed these from outside the other day. Very interesting visual experience.

 

  

  

 

WHAT TO DO TODAY - Visit The Little Gallery Under the Stairs

This little gallery has been pulling tons of people into Downtown Lynn. They have their latest opening today from 2PM-5PM. The exhibit is VOICES: Mothers who Create II.  I hope to make it over there later this afternoon. TLGUTS is downstairs in the Lynn Arts building on Exchange Street, right across from the Lynn Item.

http://www.tlguts.com/

-Corey

$4,000 bucks.... and you don't have to give it back?

Isn't $4,000 a lot of money? Every storefront can get a $4,000 grant from the OECD as part of the Community Block program. Across the street looks like a war zone with abandoned Mayo(naisse) Group property.  The space soon to be occupied by Turbine Wine Bar looks very nice with the little "tease" he put in the window. I can't wait to see what his sign looks like. The electrics have been up for months, but still no sign. I have been told recently that he is definitely going to open. He is making sure everything is perfect. We will all benefit from the care he's taking to make this the next big thing in Downtown Lynn. Past Turbine you have the clothing store which looks good as well.

Now back to our side of the street. The storefronts in Central Square need serious help. Omar & Oscar and all the way up to R.A.W. looks awesome.   They recently took down the art installation near R.A.W.  I was hoping that meant they were starting to see interest in using the space for something useful, but not sure. As you come up the street further we have our new favorite business, East Coast Karate, but they've chosen to just place posters and pieces of paper in their windows. It's starting to not look very pleasant already. Don't even get me started on Poblano's Market. I can't even read the signs they put up. They now put wooden boards over a few windows to prevent break-ins at night. UGH! The sign that is readable was made using "Print Shop" on an old Apple IIc.... At least, that's what it looks like. Things improve a bit as you move towards Flavaz, the new Christian candle shop (Las Tres Virtudes), 7 Central Square (the coolest loft building in Lynn...) and Dunkins.

The OECD tells me that businesses are actively sought out for this program. I wonder then... why they would choose not to work with the city to get the $4,000 and improve the look and function of the entrance to their store.  Do they not want the trouble of working with the city appointed architect? Do they not want the issues that may arise with ISD? Any business owners out there who have taken advatange of this? Any who have chosen not to?

As Downtowners - I think we need to spread the word to business owners who need to go after this money.

Here is the contact information as listed on the OECD website. 

James Marsh
Development Director
P. 781-586-6770
F. 781-477-7026
E. jmarsh@ci.lynn.ma.us

Donald Walker
Director of Project Operations
P. 781-586-6778
E. dwalker@ci.lynn.ma.us

Lynn Takes Away Christmas!

I'm practicing for becoming a real Lynn Item reporter someday with that headline. How did I do? It's similar to recent headlines victimizing sweet Bernice Brooks in the Mayor's office. "Mayoral Aide at Center of Storm" (The Daily Item 2/1/2010). This is an article about the fact that the city under previous leadership harassed the hell out of Mrs. Brooks. Nothing beats my personal favorite headline, however. "Lynn candidate in center of stabbing" (The Daily Item 10/31/2009) This was possibly the most irresponsible piece of crap headlining that I've ever seen and ruined our chance of having at least ONE speck of diversity on the council on Inauguration Day.

But I digress... It's easy to do when I get going on the Item.

My point is...... they took away the Christmas Tree. A good start. Now, what do I have to say on this blog in order to get the wreaths taken down. Also, I should probably mention that they left a white cone where the tree used to be. While the dogs of Central Square are going to have fun with that thing, I really hope it's not there to stay till next Christmas. I fear I am wrong.

I apologize for being so quiet lately. This is not even a great post. My show, The Boys Next Door, opens at Reading High School on Friday the 5th. After this weekend, your faithful blogger shall return to a more active state.

I have so much I want to talk to you about too! I met with Don Walker at OECD. I've had a brief exchange with Jamie Marsh about Lynn Auditorium. I've got some great ideas for the next two restaurants that must open in Downtown Lynn, but it all must wait for now.  I need sleep.

Call Lynn City Hall and tell them to kill the rest of Christmas in Central Square. While they're at it, they may want to take the Christmas lights off the tree on the common right outside City Hall. I noticed that one tonight. I'm surprised they took down the manger.

Be back next week with lots more!

Greek Dining in Downtown Lynn

I finally got the chance to check out the new Greek Restaurant that one of the Downtown Lynn readers commented on a few weeks ago. Apollo Restaurant is on Neptune Boulevard which is right on the same stretch as Lynn Housing Authority, North Shore Animal Hospital, and Tipico Restaurant. It's across the street from Lynn Tech and the YMCA.

The food is great. I was initially upset when opening the menu to see a very Americanized version of a Greek restaurant. There aren't enough greek dishes on the menu, but we ordered the few that were there and it was an incredible dining experience. The unique feature of this place is the woodcharcoal grilling. It gives all the food extreme flavor and a smoky quality to die for. The lamb in my souvlaki pita was incredible.

We started with salads. Very fresh ingredients and a great start to the meal. I thank Greece everyday for feta cheese.

 

We then moved on to our main courses. My wife is a big fan of grape leaves. She got the stuffed grape leaves dinner with rice pilaf.  Was in a very interesting and tasty sauce. She loved them!

I got the Souvlaki Pita with everything on it.

 

The lamb was so tender and full of incredible flavors from that grill. The feta, peppers, onions, tomato, lettuce, feta and dressing were all so fresh and tasty.  

The place is charming. Just what you would expect from a Greek American restaurant. The menu is full of options for those who like the traditional sub shop fare, or want a taste from the Mediterranean. I saw very few prices over the $10 mark. 

For some tasty Greek food at budget price, you can't go wrong at Apollo Restaurant.

Now... They need a beer and wine license and maybe a slight investment in plates and silverware, so not everything is so plastic. I would recommend this place for takeout or lunch in a heartbeat.  You must check it out. You have to taste what this grill does to meat!!! It's nothing I can describe to you here.  Enjoy!


-Corey

This Week's City Council Meeting

Thank you lynnhappens.com for continuing to record the City Council meetings. It's so important that we're able to see these on our own time and at our own pace.

The meeting is worth watching for the first 10 minutes or so. The Pop Warner West Lynn RAMS were honored and given their trophies for their success in making it all the way to Florida and just one game away from winning the entire United States. It looks like an incredible group of kids, a wonderful group of coaches, teachers, and administrators, and the entire city really came out in support of these kids. They thanked every councilor in the room. It was hard to catch all the names so you'll have to watch. I did hear Steve Walsh and Edward Clancy mentioned as supporters.  The best part of the video is how much diversity is in that chamber for the first 20 minutes. Hopefully we'll see more of that over the coming months.

The end of the council meeting was fairly un-eventful. Cahill asked that a letter be sent to the Mayor regarding the settlement with the Police department over misused grant monies. I don't know enough about this yet. Will need to do some digging. A mess she inherited and will have to dig the city out. Hopefully it won't hurt too bad.

Finally, there was a request to help the Rivera Brothers Boxing Club find a new home in Lynn.  Check out their website. They are pleading for donations. It's nice to see the city stepping up to try and help a good business that has been helping our youth channel their energies in a very positive way. This is not something we want to lose. There has to be empty space somewhere. 

-Corey

Merry Christmas!!!

Oh.... wait a minute... It's January 27th.

Why is there a lit Christmas Tree outside my house?

Why are there still wreaths lighting up on the lamp posts?

Was Clancy single handedly responsible for decorating Central Square Lynn, all by himself?

That would be the only logical explanation.

That, or, some city department is no longer on the ball due to recent changes.  Ahem....

Let's get Central Square looking like January. It's time to ditch the tree.

That's Exactly Why I Moved Here

I just got back from a meeting of Downtown Lynn residents that completely reminded me of why I moved here. We're definitely in the midst of a special creation downtown and I think it's beginning to impact current and former Lynners from other sections of the city. 

The dtlna is responsible for channeling a lot of this energy in the form of several neighborhood events and clean-ups in the downtown area. Tonight was the first time I've attended one of their meetings.  Let me tell you... we have some strong advocates for the future of our city. This energy, if truly given a chance to create something, is going to realize some great success.   The city can only benefit from this passion.

So, my main purpose for this post is to let those of you know that this organization exists. If you'd like to get on the mailing list, I think it's as easy as visiting the website. http://www.dtlna.org

If you don't want to get involved directly, you can at least share your ideas on what the organization should be doing and or events you would love to see Downtown. Post your comments here.

-Corey

Mildred's - 2 inches of snow or more - Breakfast is 5 bucks cheaper!

Mildred's is not exactly in Downtown, but a short walk up Broad Street to Lewis and you're at one of the most charming brunch locations on the North Shore.  From now until April, if it snows more then 2 inches, they take 5 bucks off your meal, just for trekking out in the snow.

I can always get Sarah to go there just based on the fact that they have one of the best fruit bowls in the world.  Today, I had a mexican omelette.  Pan-fried brilliantly. YUM! They have an incredible selection of meals, great cooks, extensive list of different coffees and teas, and wonderful service. I remember last year they were in a bit of a crunch financially, but they managed to pull through it and stay open. Check them out when you get a chance. They play old movies on the screen to go along with the decor. Auntie Mame was on this morning.

-Corey

OECD - Incredible That We Never Talk About It

Funny story....

I'm directing a show at Reading High School that deals with four developmental disabled adults and their case worker. I wanted to see what Lynn had for resources in this regard so that perhaps I could visit the facilities and talk to some people. What I found when I googled "lynn, ma developmental challenges" surprised me.

This website for the Office of Economic & Community Development OECD

This made me pause. The website is fantastic. Lots of great pictures of Lynn, fantastic studies on zoning, parking, waterfront, etc.   So then, what is EDIC?   Seems to be an organization focused on all the same things.

I went to the City of Lynn website to try and figure out what was what. EDIC, the non profit organization that functions as the City of Lynn's development bank is listed on the City's website.

The OECD is not listed on the City's website, yet it seems to be a City department. Certainly more so then the non-profit org listed above.   It also seems to be a hidden gem, at least to this Lynner. Has this always been here? Jamie Marsh is listed as the development director. I think this is incredible. If this is now what Jamie is focused on, it's perfect. This is exactly where we need him.

The OECD has a FY10 Action Plan.   Clancy's name is on it. I wonder if it will be revisited. Community Development may have a different spin with our new Mayor.

There is a Citizen Advisory Board

They tout a history of listening to the citizens. Interesting.

I'm having a heart attack reading this website. Why hasn't this been more public?? Is this new???


So, readers, educate me. Or better yet, educate yourselves. Take a look at the OECD website. They focused on the right things?

-Corey

Exploring Downtown Lynn: Central Ave

As you leave Central Square heading towards Washington Street, you hit a short stretch called Central Ave. Along this street there is a lot going on both in store fronts, behind the scenes, and in potential new hot spots.

The first thing you always see as you hit Central is at the corner of Central and Munroe, Lenni's Hair Styling Barbershop. Always tons of people inside hanging out. They are always cutting hair. This place is happening. Come check it out.

Right next to Lenni's is Natural's Hair Salon. Seems to be for the ladies while the guys are getting their barbershop on at Lenni's.

47 Central is located on the right after the lights. They have lots of events including Karaoke on Thursday nights.

Cal's News is located right next to 47 Central. News, smokes, snacks, coffee, etc. Busy spot in the mornings. Lots of police officers stop in there for their morning paper and coffee. Cool Hard-Core Lynner spot.

I'm now wondering if this is a joke as one reader posted. Clancy's Coffee Shop, coming soon (Since about October). I'm thinking this one ain't happening.

And finally, Supreme Bakery is open and needs your business. I have yet to be in here as I'm not much of a bakery person. I usually head to Eastern Ave for D'Amici's when I'm in need of a cake, but I wil try this place out soon. Anyone else been here?

Welcome to Central Ave folks.  Next week I'm going to hit Munroe and Oxford. Then on to the bigger projects of Market, State, and Union.

VOTE

Don't forget to vote today. I don't care who you vote for, just vote! This is a very important election and we should all have a say in the outcome. Please do your research. Don't listen to the lies in the ads. Make up your own mind, based on the issues important to you.

If you don't where to go to vote, check here:
http://www.wheredoivotema.com/bal/myelectioninfo.php

Snow Emergency in effect!

Move those cars. Getting towed is expensive. This one is completely unnecessary. MBTA garage must need the money. :-)

-Corey

Hey Chip, Go Get Me A Coffee!!

Someone recently reminded me of this sign on Central Ave. Sadly Big Belly Deli went out of business. This sign now sits in the window of the now defunct deli.

Before the election it made me laugh every time I saw it. It was a bit of foreshadowing and I enjoyed the sign. Now, it just looks sad and water stained. I assume this does not have a connection to the former Mayor?  Anyone know?

-Corey

Exploring Downtown Lynn: Central Square

As a Central Square resident, I am pretty excited about the progress I've seen in the past three years. When I moved in to my building, I was the second resident and the Dunkin was under construction. Nothing else existed under our residences. Now, every storefront is filled. Let's check it out!

I get a large black and they know it!!!! That large black is always waiting for me when I get to the front of the line and I don't need to utter a word.

This place is a summer gem in Downtown Lynn. They sell Richardson's ice cream (at least I think it's still Richardson's). It's very good. They've also done some very amazing things for the youth in our city. I'm fat enough, so I don't frequent this place as much as I would like to.

Haven't been in here, being Jewish and all. I have a feeling they might not have much to sell to me :-) I think it's great that they're here though. Has anyone else been inside?

I wish Poblanos would do a bit better then Print Shop posters. I think we're at saturation point with markets downtown. They've been constantly reinventing and trying to sell various items. I think I see clothing in there now. Not sure this one will stick. 

 

Fantastic new karate and fitness studio run by Master Lou Hopkins. Many of the downtown residents have started taking classes with Lou and his staff. My wife posted on here about the Combat Punch Out class and has now taken the Cardio Combo class as well. Loves them both and can't wait to go back. I might even go to Cardio Combo at some point.

In between East Coast and RAW is Columbia Insurance Agency. I forgot to get a picture of that place as it's easy to miss. A very small door and no real street presence. Run by a stellar business leader in the City of Lynn, John Olson. I believe he owns the building and held out to get the perfect tenants underneath the agency. East Coast Karate is a great addition and John Olson is to be commended for not letting just anything populate that prime spot in Central Square.

I can't say enough about RAW Art Works. The service they provide to our youth is unmatched. The involvement of the community and the City of Lynn with incredible fundraisers is fantastic. The event at Zimman's this year is one to remember and brought so many people into Downtown.

Travel agent anyone? I didn't even know Travel Agents still exist. Has anyone used their services? I would like to better understand what they offer in here.

Omar & Oscar is a great jewelry store. Fantastic service and great people. My wife has a watch from there and a few pairs of earrings. Everything is great quality. You should definitely check this place out, the next time you need jewelry of any kind.

Ah yes, the long-awaited  Turbine Wine Bar. I'm gonna go out on a limb here and say that the Mayo Group (The Mayonaisse Group, as I like to call them) is to blame for the delay. I think I still see construction going on, which probably means that they had to get Mayo to fix some obvious flaws with the building. The residents above this place have had major problems for years. I do not envy this owner, and I hope if it is Mayo's fault, that he sues the hell out of them.

Welcome to Central Square. Come and visit us sometime!!!

Old Tyme Italian Cuisine

YUM-TASTIC!

Great wine list, great beer list!

The food was phenomenal. The interior welcoming, warm, loud (as any self-respecting Lynn restaurant would be), and friendly.

For a great Italian meal on the North Shore, check out Old Tyme Italian.  People can't believe I have never been to this place until now. It's not Downtown, but a 2 minute drive down Boston Street towards Saugus has you there. Don't be fooled by the exterior. It's not a dive bar. It's a gem in the rough!


http://www.oldtymeitaliancuisine.com/

-Corey

The Ferry for Nobody to Nowhere Has No Funding No More

So, I know there are several politicians that think a Ferry from Lynn to the Financial District in Boston would be good for the Lynnway. I don't see it. The MBTA garage isn't even used to its' full potential and we're diverting those folks over to the Lynnway to park outside get out of their cars, get on a boat, go to work, get on a boat, get in their cars, go home. The Federal government study says there are about 200 residents of Lynn that this ferry would benefit. Maybe 8.4M could be better spent somewhere else?

Is there anyone out there that sees a use for this ferry? Maybe I'm missing something? I'd much rather see improvements to existing rail service and more of that money funneled into the Year 3000 Blue Line Opening Ceremonies.

-Corey

Should We Move On???

Ok, perhaps...


But first... just an observation. On page A4 of today's item you will find another unsigned editorial (is Clancy on staff?) which displays a disregard for the usefulness of archived public records. If they follow this "delete everything" method at the Item, that could very well explain why their editorial office is wrong so often. No one is saying they want to do a review of 8 years of Clancy's inbox, but you would think the past year of even 90 days would be of use.  You would think it would be in the best interest of our city to have that information at the ready. You would think the Lynn newspaper would be behind that.  You would be wrong on that last point.

At my company, if someone were to take over someone else's position, there would be a smooth transition and that would include sharing of important email threads.  I don't have an issue with the fact that he deleted things from 7 years ago. I have an issue with him deleting ongoing issues facing our city that now the Mayor has no knowledge of and can't defend the city's position. That clearly takes the advantage away from the Mayor's office and gives it to whoever wants to "claim" they had a certain agreement / conversation with the city. It opens us up for all kinds of wasted time figuring out what is going on.

I think the Item is right on one thing. We have pressing things to deal with right away in the City of Lynn. It's a shame that it has been made all that much harder to deal with them by the childish actions of a boy named Chip.

I'm Moving on....  (although I'm still hoping for a state led investigation into that creep)

-Corey

Brown v. Coakley

Discuss!!!

Things have been too quiet around here.

What does Downtown Lynn need more?

I wanted Capuano. I hate Coakley. I'm leaning Brown.

Convince me that Coakley is worth our vote? Or, make me feel better for leaning Brown?

I feel like I'm a man without a party. We picked the wrong Democrat and I'm really not a Republican. I swear! :-)

-Corey