[Massachusetts-NFB] IMPORTANT. PLEASE READ: Central Square dangers

[Helen Kobek]

Hello, all,
I’m truly happy that in person meetings are starting again. Nothing matches
it.
When I arranged for the chapter to meet at the Senior Center so many years
ago, Central Square was a very different place. I feel I would be remiss
were I not to say something about this.
The walking directions are still accurate. The crime level in that area has
spiked significantly, to the point where Starbucks has
announced publicly that it is closing because of it. Robberies are common,
as is general harassment. I, personally, had a wad of spit hurled in my
direction by someone I do not know (I ducked it when I heard it being
formed). The police has an office inside the Senior Center which is
occasionally occupied, and there's a dedicated police spot in Central
Square, but still and yet, it is now known to be a much more dangerous
area. You do not need to take my word for it. There are posts and reports
about it.
I'm so terribly sorry about needing to share this, for all valid reasons:
The center is an ideal host, which can bring more folks into the Chapter.
It's accessible in all ways. I saw this re-meeting there was happening, but
only got chills about it this morning when I saw the directions listed. I
suppose I was sitting in denial.
*In order to protect everyone, I have contacted the Cambridge Police
Department and am trying to arrange for a uniformed officer to escort NFB
folks from the T to the Senior Center and back to the T after the meeting.
I'm awaiting details, but please keep an eye out for details here. I will
close the loop ASAP. *
Kindest regards,
Helen
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